bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil Organic Carbon Trends Over 100 Years in the Morrow Plots
Authors: Nafziger Emerson D. , Dunker Robert E.
Published: January 2011

Soil organic carbon (SOC) has been monitored for more than 100 yr in The Morrow Plots at the University of Illinois. From 1904 to 1955, SOC in the top 15 cm of soil decreased in unfertilized plots, but decreased less or remained the same in plots with added manure+lime+phosphate (MLP). A chemical fertilizer treatment (LNPK) was added in 1955, and in 1968, the corn (Zea mays L.)–oat (Avena sativa L.) rotation was converted to corn–soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.), and a second LNPK treatment (LhiNPK) was added with a higher N rate. From 1968 through 1998, SOC values declined by 15 to 19% in LhiNPK, LNPK, and MLP in the corn–soybean rotation and by 8% in one LNPK treatment in corn–oat–hay, but not in other treatments. Soil organic carbon values from 2007–2008 deviated by only 0.2 g C kg−1 from values projected using regressions from the 1968 to 1998 period. While SOC was lost from the surface soil of unfertilized plots with continuous residue removal during the first half of the 20th century, SOC trends since then are inconsistent, and appear to be inversely correlated to beginning SOC levels. Over all rotations and treatments, SOC loss averaged only 1.1 g C kg−1 from 1955 to 2008. While no conclusion regarding residue removal effects on SOC is possible, it is clear that adequate nutrient levels are important in maintaining SOC levels.
The Sanborn Field Experiment: Implications for Long‐Term Soil Organic Carbon Levels
Authors: Miles Randall J. , Brown James R.
Published: January 2011

With the potential for generating biofuels from crop residues, many scientists and policymakers are seeking data on what would be the long‐term influence of biomass removal on soil organic matter levels. This paper shares the experience of 100 yr of various cropping systems management applications to soil organic carbon (SOC) levels on historic Sanborn Field. Established in 1888, Sanborn Field has employed monocultures and crop rotations to assess the influence of various treatments on crop yield, changes in soil properties, and long‐term sustainability. Soil samples to nearly 1 m from 1915, 1938, 1962, and 1988 for selected cropping management practices were analyzed for SOC. In the initial design of the plot plan, residues from Sanborn Field were removed from plots to simulate the use of these materials in an animal production system. In 1950 the management program was changed to return residues to each specific plot and for increased utilization of N fertilizers. Little increase in SOC was observed in samples from 1962, 12 yr after the return of residues. In many systems, surface SOC decreased from 1915 to 1962 with an increase for the 1988 samples. After initiation of residue return, manure only treatments nearly returned to 1915 SOC contents in the surface soil. This increase was a result of the nutrients from the manure in concert with the residues. SOC distribution over the time period for rotations did not follow the patterns of monocultures. It appears that an equilibrium level of SOC for some cropping systems takes about 30 to 40 yr to develop. Initial active carbon (AC) content assessment as a proxy for soil quality shows greater AC with manure and higher input management systems. The AC had a wide seasonal flux within a growing season as a function of temperature and moisture fluxes on microbial activity.
Water Use of St. Augustinegrass and Bahiagrass under Varying Nitrogen Rates
Authors: McGroary P. C. , Cisar J. L. , Snyder G. H. , Erickson J. E. , Daroub S. H. , Sartain J. B.
Published: January 2011

In Florida, state agencies are concerned about St. Augustinegrass [Stenotaphrum secundatum (Walt.) Kuntze] for being a possible high water user and excess (N) applications in home lawns. This has resulted in a desire by some municipalities to substitute St. Augustinegrass with bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flügge). Consequently, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of different N fertilizer rates on water use and turf quality of bahiagrass and St. Augustinegrass commonly used in residential yards. The experiment was a split‐plot randomized complete block design repeated over two trials. Whole plots arranged in blocks consisted of either bahiagrass cultivar ‘Pensacola’ or St. Augustinegrass cultivar ‘Floratam’. Subplots consisted of two N rates (98 and 294 N kg ha−1 yr−1). Water use rates, was influenced by grass type and by N rates with bahiagrass having higher water use rates (WURs) than St. Augustinegrass in one of the two trails. The high N rate increased turfgrass WURs but only in Trial 1. In both trials clipping yields (CY) were greater for bahiagrass than St. Augustinegrass. Furthermore, the higher N rate produced greater CY than the lower N rate. All treatments produced acceptable turfgrass quality when averaged for each trial though, not for ever cycle. Bahiagrass generally produced superior quality ratings than St. Augustinegrass. In addition, the higher N rate always produced higher quality scores than the lower N rate.
Design and Validation of a Laboratory System for Measurement of Volatilized Ammonia
Authors: Woodward Timothy R. , Frame W. Hunter , Alley M. M. , Whitehurst Garnett B. , Whitehurst Brooks M.
Published: January 2011

The design of laboratory systems for studying ammonia (NH3) released from fertilizers varies widely, and few designs have been tested to determine the accuracy and precision in measuring NH3 loss. A standard volatilization system design is needed for reliable and comparable studies of NH3 volatilization from N fertilizer. The objectives of this study are: (i) to describe the design of a system capable of controlling air flow rate and temperature for laboratory measurement of NH3 volatilized from N fertilizers; and (ii) assess the system's efficiency and variation in recovering NH3 lost from NH4Cl applied to an alkaline sand media. The system is comprised of individual chambers for soil and fertilizer, where temperature can be varied from room temperature to ∼32°C; humidity is maintained near saturation, air flow rate can be varied, and acid traps are used to capture volatilized NH3. Two initial trials (I and II) were conducted at an N rate of 90 kg N ha−1 using air flow rates of 2.00 and 1.00 L min−1 and trapping acid volumes of 50 and 100 mL, respectively. A third trial was conducted at 30°C. A fourth trial (IV) was performed using a range of N application rates (25–250 kg N ha−1). The system recovered 89.3 to 97.1% of the N applied over all four trials and provided accurate and repeatable results under the conditions tested. Rapid, precise comparisons of NH3 volatilization losses from N fertilizers under laboratory conditions can be made with this system.
Influence of Liquid Cattle Manure on Micronutrients Content and Uptake by Corn and their Availability in a Calcareous Soil
Authors: Nikoli Thomai , Matsi Theodora
Published: January 2011

The effect of soil application of liquid dairy cattle (Bos taurus) manure on Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn, and B content and uptake by corn (Zea mays L.) and their availability in a calcareous soil was studied. The field received 9 yr of liquid cattle manure in two fertilization experiments, initially with winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) (1996–2000), followed by a similar experiment with corn (2002–2006). The treatments, practiced on the same plots every year since 1996, included: (i) soil incorporation of liquid dairy cattle manure before sowing at a rate equivalent to the recommended N‐P inorganic fertilization for each crop; (ii) application of the recommended inorganic N‐P fertilization for each crop, before sowing; (iii) identical to ii, but with split N application; and (iv) no fertilization (control). Surface soil samples were analyzed at the beginning of each corn‐growing season and in the spring of 2007. Corn samples, collected at the R3 growth stage, were also analyzed. The results showed that concentrations of all micronutrients in corn were not affected by fertilization. However, following manure application in 2005 and 2006, micronutrients' uptake by corn was significantly increased compared to the control, and was similar to levels for the inorganic fertilizer treatments. After 9 yr of manure application to soil, DTPA extractable Cu, Zn, and Mn and hot water extractable B were significantly increased. In addition, soil total and dissolved organic C were significantly increased and dissolved organic C was significantly correlated to DTPA extractable metals.
Switchgrass Leaf Area Index and Light Extinction Coefficients
Authors: Kiniry Jim , Johnson Mari‐Vaughn , Mitchell Robert , Vogel Ken , Kaiser Jerry , Bruckerhoff Steve , Cordsiemon Ron
Published: January 2011

Much of recent interest in biofuel species modeling has been for switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.). Such modeling requires accurate simulation of light interception. We investigated the stability of the light extinction coefficient (k) in Beer's Law with data from Temple, TX; Lincoln, NE; and Elsberry, MO. Variability in k values was not related to fraction of light intercepted, time of day, or incident solar radiation. Only the magnitude of leaf area index (LAI) showed a significant impact on the k value. The mean k value (−0.37) for the ‘Alamo’ switchgrass data at Temple was similar to the previously published k value (−0.33) and similar to Alamo k values in Nebraska (−0.38) and Missouri (−0.31). Compared to Alamo, other switchgrass cultivars had similar k values in Nebraska but were higher in Missouri. This study gave guidance as to which factors are important for quantifying k with Beer's Law for light interception of switchgrass.
Yield and Net Returns during the Transition to Organic Feed Grain Production
Authors: Smith Richard G. , Barbercheck Mary E. , Mortensen David A. , Hyde Jeffrey , Hulting Andrew G.
Published: January 2011

In the mid‐Atlantic region, the demand for organic dairy has provided incentives for farmers to transition their land to organic feed grain production. At the same time, interest in minimum‐tillage organic production is growing. Two field experiments were conducted to assess the effects of a first year cover crop and tillage system on weed populations, cash crop yield, and net returns over the 3‐yr transition period in a cover crop–soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.)–corn (Zea mays L.) feed grain rotation. The cover crop treatments were rye (Secale cereale L.)–hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth) (hereafter RYE) and timothy (Phleum pratense L.)–red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) (hereafter TIM). Tillage system treatments were moldboard plow (full tillage, FT) and chisel plow (minimum tillage, MT). Across both experiments, soybean yields ranged from 1190 to 3721 kg ha−1 Corn grain yields were affected by tillage in the first experiment only, and were 59% higher in FT (9370 kg ha−1) compared to MT (5906 kg ha−1). Weed abundance was primarily affected by tillage, with densities in corn being 244% higher in MT compared to FT. Cumulative net returns in the first experiment were profit‐generating in systems where TIM was the initial cover crop (mean = U.S. $ 317 ha−1). Mean cumulative net returns were positive in three of the four treatment combinations in the second experiment (U.S. $ 74–299 ha−1). Improved strategies for minimizing the costs associated with fertilization and management of weeds in minimal tillage will be necessary to improve the profitability and sustainability of reduced‐tillage organic systems.
NutriDense Corn Response to Nitrogen Rates
Authors: Shepard A. , Thomison P. , Nafziger E. , Mullen R. , Clucas C.
Published: January 2011

Nitrogen rate effects on the grain composition of nutritionally enhanced corn (Zea mays L.) hybrids have not been widely studied. Field experiments were conducted at two Illinois locations and two Ohio locations in 2006 and 2007 to determine if hybrids containing NutriDense (ND) genetics respond to N rates differently than yellow dent (YD) corn hybrids for grain yield, protein and oil content. Twelve ND hybrids and five YD hybrids were evaluated across eight environments at five N rates that varied from 0 to 269 kg ha−1 There were only two hybrid × N rate interactions across eight site‐year environments. The YD hybrids' average grain yields were greater than the ND hybrids in seven of the eight environments (9.6 vs. 8.8 Mg ha−1). The grain protein and oil content of ND hybrids were greater than the YD hybrids in three of four environments. Averaged across environments and N rates, protein content was 78 and 86 g kg−1 for the YD and ND hybrids, and oil content was 53 and 56 g kg−1 for YD and ND hybrids, respectively. Grain yield and protein increased and grain oil decreased slightly as N rate increased from 0 to 269 g ha−1 Nitrogen rates needed to optimize yield and grain quality of ND corn hybrids are similar to those recommended for YD hybrids.
Personal transformation in chronic physical disease: Conceptual limitations of the posttraumatic growth construct
Authors: Wittmann Lutz , Büchi Stefan
Published: January 2011

This quantitative-qualitative case study focuses on processes of personal
transformation in chronic physical disease in order to further our
understanding of the posttraumatic growth construct. Semistructured
interviews were conducted with women suffering from Systemic Lupus
Erythematosus. The validity of the posttraumatic growth construct is assessed
comparing results obtained by a standardized measure (Posttraumatic Growth
Inventory) to individual pictorial and verbal depictions of personal
transformation processes. Detailed examinations of three cases evidenced the
validity of subjective appraisals of posttraumatic growth. Also, the
Posttraumatic Growth Inventory covered all facets of positive growth
processes as portrayed by individual depictions. However, the concept of
posttraumatic growth neglects negatively evaluated processes of personal
transformation. The consequences of this conceptual bias are discussed with
respect to clinical care as well as contradictory results seen in empirical
research. Posttraumatic loss and destruction is suggested as a second
dimension for the representation of personal transformation in chronic
physical disease.
The Mayer-Salovey-Caruso emotional intelligence test: Psychometric properties of the Serbian version
Authors: Altaras-Dimitrijevic Ana , Jolic-Marjanovic Zorana
Published: January 2011

The field of emotional intelligence (EI) research has yielded two rather
distinct ways of conceptualizing and measuring the construct, which also
differ greatly in terms of their scientific value: mixed models of EI,
although commercially successful, prove inadequate when subject to
scientific scrutiny; by contrast, the Mayer and Salovey ability model of EI
meets most of the proposed criteria for establishing a scientifically
meaningful EI construct. Its current operationalization, the MSCEIT, has
thus far been found to exhibit good reliability, as well as
convergent-dicriminant and structural validity. The present study examined
the psychometric properties of the Serbian version of the test in a sample
of 250 high school graduates. Our results show that the reliabilities of
Serbian MSCEIT scores are equivalent to those reported for the American
standardization sample; more specifically, reliability coefficients are high
for the two Area scores and the Total score (r? .86). The Total EI score
shows low to moderate correlations with standard measures of academic
intelligence (r=.244 - .429; p<.01), and very low correlations with the
Big Five personality traits (r<.25) - a pattern that is regarded optimal in
establishing convergent-discriminant validity. The factor structure of the
Serbian MSCEIT closely corresponds to that of the original test: the
theoretically proposed 1-, 2- and 4-factor solutions all prove empirically
sustainable; however, in the 2- and 4-factor solutions, the structure of
certain EI branches diverges from that which is theoretically expected and
incorporated in the scoring system. The obtained data certainly recommend
the Serbian MSCEIT for standardization and practical use, in which case they
should be supplemented with data regarding the test?s predictive validity.
On a more basic level, our results suggest the possibility of assessing a
scientifically meaningful EI construct, defined as the ability to reason
with ?emotional? information.
‘This Site is Blocked’: K-12 Teachers and the Challenge of Accessing Peer-To-Peer Networks for Education
Authors: Ching Cynthia Carter , Hursh Anthony W.
Published: January 2011

This article examines a little-discussed phenomenon in the study of both peer-to-peer collaborative networks and teaching with technology: that of teachers caught in the middle between open public networks as teaching resources and highly restrictive school policies regarding internet content and online access. Based on their experiences as teacher-educators in graduate programs in educational technology and as facilitators of teacher professional development workshops on technology integration, the authors have collected numerous cases of teachers making use of different types of what are currently described as ‘peer-to-peer’ networks. One goal of this article is to introduce a more nuanced framework for how to characterize the kinds of resources and networks that teachers can make use of, adapting current terminology to include ‘peer to peer’, ‘peer to public’, and ‘public to public’. Examples of the advantages and challenges of each type are described, with accompanying cases of actual teachers and their experiences. A second and related goal is more philosophical. Based on their framework and cases, the authors argue that neither the prevailing utopian rhetoric of grassroots social networks, nor critical protests against internet surveillance and control, are functionally adequate to describe the dilemmas teachers face when they try to find online resources they can actually share with their students in the classroom. The authors want to move beyond this polarizing rhetoric and toward a more pragmatic discussion of possibilities, including strategies for training teachers in how to work within (or even ‘hack’) their local and institutional constraints.
The Opportunity in Higher Education: How Open Education and Peer-To-Peer Networks are Essential for Higher Education
Authors: Ondercin David J.
Published: January 2011

The university's role in the nation's economy is to increase its ability to transfer research to industry, generate new inventions and patents, and spin-off its technology in the form of startup companies. As such, there has been a movement in the USA and around the world to make universities ‘engines of innovation’, and to enhance their ability to commercialize their research. In accordance with these principles, the idea of open learning innovation in the peer-to-peer system of higher education has been put into the forefront of economic, social, and cultural creative concepts. Open learning and open innovation provide educators and administrators in the peer-to-peer networks, which provides the ability for them to take a step back and view the educational process through the lens of the creative economy. There is growing momentum to embrace open innovation and the necessity to use peer-to-peer networks for educational institutions. The author contends that open education along with peer-to-peer networking is the new direction for higher education; otherwise, higher education could face the possibility of disengaging new generations of students and problems could exist in higher education.
Understanding Wikibook-Based Tensions in Higher Education: An Activity Theory Approach
Authors: Karasavvidis Ilias
Published: January 2011

Research has indicated that the integration of wikis in higher education is very challenging. The present article focuses on the tensions emerging from the integration of a wikibook as a required assignment in an undergraduate course. Drawing on data from a case study, the article uses Activity Theory as a theoretical framework in order to identify the tensions and determine their origins in a systemic way. The results indicated four main tensions, one within the object of activity and three between the components of the activity system. The article is concluded with a discussion of findings and the measures which can be taken to resolve these tensions.
Understanding the Evolution of Technology through P2P Systems and its Impact on Learning Environments
Authors: Rawlings Tomas
Published: January 2011

The purpose of this article is to explore the development of new methodological approaches that draw on ideas and concepts from natural sciences and apply them within the humanities. The main research example this article looks at is the re-application of a palaeontological process; it looks though the geological layers of sediment for fossilised remains from which it can attempt to reverse-engineer the process and forms of change from these finds. This research re-engineers this basic method by looking at the layers of software iteration to understand the relationships between media artefacts over time. This article uses as its test subject, peer-to-peer software (p2p). The method developed involved sifting though the layers of digital sediment using change-logs, release schedules, forms, mailing lists and release repositories to reconstruct a time-line of change. It then used this data to construct a proto-phylogenetic tree of familial relationships between different p2p software clients. The article examines these findings next to existing works on technology evolution, suggests a mechanism by which these findings can be interpreted and then has suggestions as to the possible implications of these findings for learning and educational technologies.
Catalyzing Collaborative Learning: How Automated Task Distribution May Prompt Students to Collaborate
Authors: Armstrong Chandler
Published: January 2011

Collaborative learning must prompt collaborative behavior among students. Once initiated, collaboration then must facilitate awareness between students of each other's activities and knowledge. Collaborative scripts provide explicit framework and guidance for roles and activities within student interactions, and are one method of fulfilling the requisites for collaborative learning. Such explicit framework is intrusive and replicates the one-way flow of knowledge, from instructor to students, that is characteristic of standard learning methods. Parallels between traditional and non-traditional learning environments demonstrate that non-traditional learning environments, such as workplaces or peer-to-peer communities, often utilize equally proactive but less intrusive methods for initiating and guiding collaboration. Open source communities have used automated task distribution systems that will notify users of changes in the status of shared knowledge objects. Theory and research suggest that awareness of shared knowledge prompts individuals to adopt group roles and share their own knowledge. The author suggests that automated task distribution may be equally applicable to traditional learning environments, especially those environments utilizing computer-supported collaborative learning.
CoLab: A Collaborative Laboratory for Facilitating Code Reviews through a Peer-To-Peer Network
Authors: Kini Shwetha
Published: January 2011

CoLab is a collaborative tool for peer review of software programs for providing constructive feedback to first-time programmers. It targets two kinds of users: a trainer (who is the facilitator) and a trainee (whose programming skills have to be assessed and, if needed, improved). The tool provides real-time information on the reviewing ability of and common mistakes made by the programmers. As a result, it allows trainees to develop their programming skills without much assistance or intervention from the trainer. This article describes the design of CoLab and how it can be used as a tool for learning software programming in large classrooms.
Amination-reduction reaction as simple protocol for potential boronic molecular receptors. Insight in supramolecular structure directed by weak interactions
Authors: Adamczyk-Woźniak Agnieszka , Madura Izabela , Pawełko Alicja , Sporzyński Andrzej , Żubrowska Anna , Żyła Jacek
Published: January 2011

The synthesis of the potential molecular receptors in the amination-reduction reaction has been investigated within the model system comprising (2-formylphenyl)boronic acid and morpholine. The 3-amine substituted benzoxaborole was identified to be the intermediate of the synthesis and the unsubstituted benzoxaborole as the by-product resulting from reduction of the starting material. The insight into the reactivity of the starting materials as well as the intermediate benzoxaborole enabled significant rise in the yield of 2-(aminomethyl) phenylboronic acids synthesis. The solid state structure of 2-(piperidylmethyl)phenylboronic acid has been re-determined, and the description of the molecule and the crystal is given. The supramolecular layer structure directed by the weak C-H…O and C-H…π interactions was identified and scrutinized based on the geometry and Hirshfeld surface analyses
Hip and Knee Kinematics in Sagittal Plane during Stair Ascent and Descent in Children, Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Syczewska Małgorzata , Szczerbik Ewa , Kalinowska Małgorzata
Published: January 2011

Hip and Knee Kinematics in Sagittal Plane during Stair Ascent and Descent in Children, Adolescents and Young Adults

Ascending and descending stairs is a frequent activity in every-day living. Available data usually describe the ascent and descent pattern of young healthy adults, or elderly people.

In order to assess the problems of peadiatric patients during stair ascent and descent, and to evaluate how treatment changes this pattern, a normative data base is needed. This data is lacking in the literature. Therefore, the aim of this study was to collect the kinematic data of healthy children, adolescents and young adults during stair locomotion and to assess the changes in range of movement in hip and knee joints in the sagittal plane. Twenty-seven healthy subjects, aged 6 to 21 years old, participated in the study. The subjects were climbing stairs with dimensions comparable to steps in public building.

The data were collected using optoelectronic motion system VICON 460. Helen Hayes marker set and Plug-In-Gait model were used. The data were further processed using Polygon and Matlab softwares. The subjects were divided into 6 subgroups, according to their body stature.

Hip and knee kinematics in sagittal plane during stair ascent and descent are reported for all 6 subgroups.

The main factor determining the dynamic range of movement in the hip and knee joints during stair locomotion is the body stature / step height ratio. The present paper presents detailed data, which could be used as reference data for assessment of stair locomotion of paediatric patients.
Effects of Ambient Temperature on Physiological Responses to Incremental Exercise Test
Authors: Aleksander Tyka , Szczepan Wiecha , Tomasz Palka , Zbigniew Szygula , Anna Tyka , Tomasz Cison
Published: January 2011

Effects of Ambient Temperature on Physiological Responses to Incremental Exercise Test

Physiological variables are regularly analyzed by coaches and sport scientists during an incremental exercise test (IET) until exhaustion. Physiological and biochemical responses of the body are modified upon exercising in the heat as well as results obtained in the IET. Heat changes the validity of these results to be used when prescribing or monitoring training processes and predicting performance in athletes

To determine the effect of ambient temperature on physiological responses, twelve physically active men completed IET on the cycle ergometer in three ambient temperatures: 23°C (T23), 31°C (T31) and 37°C (T37).

We measured continuously: rectal temperature (Tre) and aural canal temperature (Tac), heart rate (HR), O2 CO2 respiratory rate (RR), tidal volume (TV), and minute ventilation (VE). Blood samples for pl LA-
pf were taken before, at the end of each exercise step and 3 minutes after the test ended.

The exercise duration (DE) and energy expenditure (EE) to reach the threshold of decompensated metabolic acidosis (TDMA) decreased (p<0.05) in T31 (11.27 ± 3.03 minutes; 86.2 ± 24.2 kJ) and T37 (10.72 ± 2.76 minutes; 79.5 ± 21.3 kJ) in comparison to T23 (13.10 ± 2.30 minutes; 108.8 ± 23.9 kJ), with no differences observed in pl LA-
pf, VE, O2 or Tre. We observed an increase (p<0.05) in pl LA-
pf after tests in T31 (11.08 ± 1.89 mmol/L) and T37 (11.94 ± 2.25 mmol/L) in comparison to T23 (10.26 ± 2.30 mmol/L), with no differences observed in O2 max, end Tre, EE and DE to exhaustion.

The TDMA occurs faster and at a lower WL, while performing IET in 31°C and 37°C. Coaches sport scientists should consider these factors when conducting IET to assess the threshold level and performance of athletes.
The Short and Long Term Effects of Tibialis Anterior Local Cooling on Dorsiflexion Force
Authors: Pereira Luciano , Pereira Rafael , Neto Osmar , Magini Marcio
Published: January 2011

The Short and Long Term Effects of Tibialis Anterior Local Cooling on Dorsiflexion Force

The goal of this study was to analyze and compare the superficial temperature, dorsiflexion force and electromyographic (EMG) signal of tibialis anterior muscle before and after superficial cooling application. Seventeen healthy untrained volunteers were divided into two groups. Subjects were submitted to seven procedures of maximal voluntary isometric contractions of dorsiflexion, once before and six times after thirty minutes of either superficial cooling of the anterolateral side of the leg with an ice pack (LC group) or rest (control group). Superficial temperature, dorsiflexion force and EMG of the tibialis anterior muscle were evaluated immediately, 5, 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes after cooling intervention. The results showed that the superficial temperature reduced significantly for 60 minutes post cooling, dorsiflexion force and amplitude of EMG signal was reduced only immediately after cooling application, whereas median frequency of EMG signal was significantly reduced up to 60 minutes post cooling application. The study concludes that superficial cooling with ice pack for thirty minutes can decrease the dorsiflexion force and EMG activity only immediately after the cooling application, while it causes a prolonged decrement on the superficial local temperature and on the median frequency of the EMG signal. These findings suggest that clinicians should be aware of the immediately alterations in motor output performance that result from muscle local cooling interventions which are followed by rapid recovery.
Actions with the Ball that Determine the Effectiveness of Play in Women's Football
Authors: Soroka Andrzej , Bergier Józef
Published: January 2011

Actions with the Ball that Determine the Effectiveness of Play in Women's Football

Various actions with the ball performed by players during football matches encourage continuous research on game observation to be carried out. It is of special significance in providing information about players and their contribution to the effort of the whole team. Both quantitative and qualitative records enable transformation of the information obtained into data supporting training tasks. In the opinion of the authors, the determination of a winning team is affected to the greatest extent by qualitative factors in the form of coefficients of accuracy and efficiency of particular actions with the ball. A hypothesis was advanced in the study that in women's football there are ball actions whose quality of execution affects winning a match, and that there exists a specific ranking of their significance. Analyses were conducted for nearly 18,000 actions performed with the ball by 130 players, competitors in the European Women's Football Championship in 2005. Statistical tests applied in the study enabled differences between teams of winners and losers to be defined, whereas the analysis of a discriminant function indicated which qualitative factors were the most significant and had the greatest impact on winning a match. A specific hierarchy of the significance of those activities was also elaborated in the study. The most significant activities that affected the victory were: 1×1 play in defense, 1×1 play in offense, accuracy of passes and effective execution of dead-ball situations.
An Examination of Social Physique Anxiety with Regard to Sex and Level of Sport Involvement
Authors: Mülazimoğlu-Balli Özgür , Koca Canan , Aşçi F.
Published: January 2011

An Examination of Social Physique Anxiety with Regard to Sex and Level of Sport Involvement

The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the difference in social physique anxiety among competitive athletes, exercisers and non-exercisers. The present study was also aimed to examine the sex differences in social physique anxiety between men and women. Two hundred and fifty-five exercisers, 261 competitive athletes and 350 non-exercisers voluntarily participated in this study. Social Physique Anxiety Scale (Hart, Leary and Rejeski, 1989) was used as the measure of social physique anxiety. Results of the present study indicated significant differences in social physique anxiety with regard to sex and level of sport involvement. Men had lower scores on social physique anxiety than women, and competitive athletes and exercisers had lower social physique anxiety scores than non-exercisers. Social physique anxiety of males and females did not differ with regard to level of sport involvement.
Abundance and distribution of selected breeding river-bed birds on the Drava River between Maribor and Središče ob Dravi (NE Slovenia) in 2006 and 2009, and causes of the reduction of their populations
Authors: Božič Luka , Denac Damijan
Published: January 2011

Številčnost in razširjenost izbranih gnezdilk struge reke Drave med Mariborom in Središčem ob Dravi (SV Slovenija) v letih 2006 in 2009 ter vzroki za zmanjšanje njihovih populacij
Microstructure and properties of hard magnetic FeCr30Co8 alloy subjected to plastic deformation by complex loading
Authors: Korneva Anna , Bieda Magdalena , Korznikova Galija , Korznikov Aleksandr , Sztwiertnia Krzysztof
Published: January 2011

The microstructural, mechanical and magnetic properties of FeCr30Co8 alloy in the a state were examined after upsetting, followed by torsion. The temperatures (750, 800, 850 and 900°C) and deformation rates corresponded to the superplasticity conditions of the Fe–Cr–Co alloys. Due to the torsional deformation, which was applied only to the bottom of the samples, a gradient microstructure was formed in the sections that were parallel to the upsetting direction. In the temperature range from 750 to 850°C, the deformation led to intermetallic r-phase precipitation. The maximum refinement of the microstructure and the maximum r-phase precipitation were observed in the material that was deformed at 800°C. Measurement of the magnetic properties showed a decreasing coercive force in the deformed alloy, in contrast to the mechanical properties of the samples after the magnetic treatment.
Tracing the growth rate changes during vertical directional solidification by electrical resistance measurements
Authors: Brunčko Mihael , Kneissl Albert C. , Anžel Ivan
Published: January 2011

At a constant alloy composition, the properties of directionally solidified material depend strongly on the evolution of its microstructure affected by the variation of growth rate V and the temperature gradient G in the vicinity of the solidification front. Several research groups are currently attempting to improve the directional solidification process with mathematical modeling and/or development of a sensor technology for in-situ monitoring of crucial solidification parameters during the process. In this paper the applicability and efficiency of the combined in-situ electrical resistance and temperature measurements for characterization of directional solidification of the eutectic Sn–Pb alloy is presented. Sensor technology shown in this paper exploits the large differences in the electrical resistivity of solid and liquid phases for determination of the current position X(t) and growth rate V(t) of the solidification front.
Thermochemical investigations in the tin–phosphorus system*
Authors: Ganesan Rajesh , Ciccioli Andrea , Gigli Guido , Ipser Herbert
Published: January 2011

Phosphorus vapor pressures were measured over tin–phosphorus samples using two independent experimental techniques. Using an isopiestic method, data points were obtained between approximately 0 and 71 at.% P in the temperature interval from 618 to 998 K. Vapor pressures were also measured at lower temperatures over two twophase fields, i. e. in (L + Sn4P3) between 559 and 677 K and in (Sn4P3 + Sn3P4) between 552 and 621 K, by a Knudsen cell based mass loss technique. Based on these measurements partial thermodynamic properties and integral Gibbs energies were derived. The composition dependence of the phosphorus activity was also derived for three selected temperatures, 650, 700, and 750 K. Standard molar Gibbs energies of formation of Sn4P3, Sn3P4 and SnP3 were determined and are given by:

Δ
f

G
m
°

(

Sn

4

P
3

)

(
s
)

±
1.1
/
kJ
⋅

mol

−
1

=
−
166.5
+
0.2007

T
/
K

(

T
=
559
−
794

K

)

Δ
f

G
m
°

(

Sn

3

P
4

)

(
s
)

±
1.8
/
kJ
⋅

mol

−
1

=
−
234.4
+
0.3053

T
/
K

(

T
=
552
−
705

K

)

Δ
f

G
m
°

(

SnP

3

)

(
s
)

/
kJ
⋅

mol

−
1

=
−
113.0
+
0.1523

T
/
K

(

T
=
632
−
659

K

)
Tensile properties of ultrafine grained Mg-3%Al alloy studied at elevated temperature
Authors: Mallick Ashis
Published: January 2011

The aim of this paper is to present an overview of the tensile behavior of ultrafine grained Mg-3%Al alloy. The bulk ultrafine grained Mg alloy was synthesized via consolidation of mechanical alloying. The grain size of the sample was calculated from X-ray diffraction line profile analysis. Tensile properties of ultrafine grained samples tested at temperatures of 25°C to 250°C are compared with that of a coarse grain microcrystalline sample. Plastic deformation of the ultrafine grained sample exhibits a combination of work hardening (15–48% plastic strain) and perfect plastic behavior characterized by a constant flow stress. At room temperature, the sample showed a gain in strength of about two times and enhanced ductility compared to the microcrystalline sample. The strain rate sensitivity was observed to be three times higher in the present ultrafine grained sample. A stress drop with increasing test temperatures was observed in both the samples. The effect of temperature on flow behavior in terms of work hardening rate, temperature sensitivity, ductility, yield strength, and tensile strength are also examined precisely. The present results show important evidence of the temperature dependence of the mechanical properties of the ultrafine grained Mg-3%Al alloy in comparison to the microcrystalline sample.
Microstructural evolution through hot working of the single-phase and two-phase Ti-6Al-4V alloy
Authors: Sahebdel Leila , Abbasi Seyed Mehdi , Momeni Amir
Published: January 2011

The microstructural evolution of the alloy Ti-6Al-4V was analyzed after hot compression tests in the temperature range of 800–1150°C and the strain rate range of 0.001 s−1 to 1 s−1. The slope of work hardening and that of flow softening were conspicuously higher in the two-phase microstructure than those obtained in the single-phase β region. It was found that in the two-phase region the peak strain, the strain for highest rate of flow softening and the steady state strain were almost independent of the Zener–Hollomon parameter, Z. While in the single-phase region, characteristic strains were dependent on Z. The microstructural observations indicated that globularization in the α phase contributed to the flow softening. It was also shown that the kinetics of globularization decreased with strain rate. Otherwise, it was concluded that dynamic recrystallization comes into operation during hot deformation of the single-phase β microstructure. In the single-phase region the recrystallization softening and the average grain size diminished with strain rate and increased with temperature.
Knowledge and Certainties in the Epistemic State of Nature
Authors: Kusch Martin
Published: January 2011

This paper seeks to defend, develop, and revise Edward Craig's “genealogy of knowledge”. The paper first develops the suggestion that Craig's project is naturally thought of as an important instance of “social cognitive ecology”. It then introduces the genealogy of knowledge and some of its main problems and weaknesses, suggesting that these are best taken as challenges for further work rather than as refutations. The central sections of the paper conduct a critical dialogue between Craig's theory and Wittgenstein's claim–familiar fromOn Certainty–that common-sense certainties cannot be known. It turns out that Craig's distinction between different stages in the development of our concept of knowledge can illuminate and make plausible Wittgenstein's claim. But it can do so only if Craig's traditional commitment to a central “core” in our concept of knowledge is replaced with the idea ofknowledgeas a family-resemblance concept.
An Ecology of Epistemic Authority
Authors: Code Lorraine
Published: January 2011

I offer an examination of trust relations in scientific inquiry as they seem to contrast with a lack of trust in an example of knowledge imposed from above by an unaccountable institutional power structure. On this basis I argue for a re-reading of John Hardwig's account of the place of trust in knowledge, and suggest that it translates less well than social epistemologists and others have assumed into a model for democratic epistemic practice.
Steps to an Ecology of Knowledge: Continuity and Change in the Genealogy of Knowledge
Authors: Gelfert Axel
Published: January 2011

The present paper argues for a more complete integration between recent “genealogical” approaches to the problem of knowledge and evolutionary accounts of the development of human cognitive capacities and practices. A structural tension is pointed out between, on the one hand, the fact that theexplicandumof genealogical stories is a specifically human trait and, on the other hand, the tacit acknowledgment, shared by all contributors to the debate, that human beings have evolved from non-human beings. Since humans differ from their predecessors in more ways than just the lack of a particular concept or cognitive ability, this casts doubt on the widely shared assumption (the “Constancy Assumption”) that, when constructing a genealogical narrative for a particular concept (e.g., our contemporary concept of knowledge), it is permissible to hold all other factors (e.g., individual “on-board” cognitive capacities) fixed. What is needed instead, I argue, is an ecological perspective that views knowledge as an adaptive response to an evolutionary constellation that allows for a diversity of selective pressures. Several examples of specific conceptual pressures at different stages in human evolution are discussed.
Gate-Keeping Contextualism
Authors: Henderson David
Published: January 2011

This paper explores a position that combines contextualism regarding knowledge with the idea that the central point or purpose of the concept of knowledge is to feature in attributions that keep epistemic gate for contextually salient communities. After highlighting the main outlines and virtues of the suggested gate-keeping contextualism, two issues are pursued. First, the motivation for the view is clarified in a discussion of the relation between evaluative concepts and the purposes they serve. This clarifies why one's sense for the point of an evaluative concept ought to constrain and inform one's understanding of the concept. Second, the paper explores ways of avoiding a problem in the author's earlier development of gate-keeping contextualism. The initial development of the view opened the door to a form of skepticism that would hobble an important facet of our social-epistemic lives.
Energy Solutions, Neo-Liberalism, and Social Diversity in Toronto, Canada
Authors: Teelucksingh Cheryl , Poland Blake
Published: January 2011

In response to the dominance of green capitalist discourses in Canada’s environmental movement, in this paper, we argue that strategies to improve energy policy must also provide mechanisms to address social conflicts and social disparities. Environmental justice is proposed as an alternative to mainstream environmentalism, one that seeks to address systemic social and spatial exclusion encountered by many racialized immigrants in Toronto as a result of neo-liberal and green capitalist municipal policy and that seeks to position marginalized communities as valued contributors to energy solutions. We examine Toronto-based municipal state initiatives aimed at reducing energy use while concurrently stimulating growth (specifically, green economy/green jobs and ‘smart growth’). By treating these as instruments of green capitalism, we illustrate the utility of environmental justice applied to energy-related problems and as a means to analyze stakeholders’ positions in the context of neo-liberalism and green capitalism, and as opening possibilities for resistance.
Detection of Mycosphaerella graminicola in Wheat Leaves by a Microsatellite Dinucleotide Specific-Primer
Authors: Abd-Elsalam Kamel , Bahkali Ali H. , Moslem Mohamed , De Wit Pierre J. G. M. , Verreet Joseph-Alexander
Published: January 2011

Early detection of infection is very important for efficient management of Mycosphaerella graminicola leaf blotch. To monitor and quantify the occurrence of this fungus during the growing season, a diagnostic method based on real-time PCR was developed. Standard and real-time PCR assays were developed using SYBR Green chemistry to quantify M. graminicola in vitro or in wheat samples. Microsatellite dinucleotide specific-primers were designed based on microsatellite repeats of sequences present in the genome of M. graminicola. Specificity was checked by analyzing DNA of 55 M. graminicola isolates obtained from different geographical origins. The method appears to be highly specific for detecting M. graminicola; no fluorescent signals were observed from 14 other closely related taxa. Primer (CT) 7 G amplified a specific amplicon of 570 bp from all M. graminicola isolates. The primers did not amplify DNA extracted from 14 other fungal species. The approximate melting temperature (Tm) of the (CT) 7 G primer was 84.2 °C. The detection limit of the real-time PCR assay with the primer sets (CT) 7 G is 10 fg/25 µL, as compared to 10 pg/25 µL using conventional PCR technology. From symptomless leaves, a PCR fragment could be generated two days after inoculation. Both conventional and real-time PCR could successfully detect the fungus from artificially inoculated wheat leaves. However, real-time PCR appeared much more sensitive than conventional PCR. The developed quantitative real-time PCR method proved to be rapid, sensitive, speciﬁc, cost-effective and reliable for the identiﬁcation and quantiﬁcation of M. graminicola in wheat.
Laser Fabrication of 3D Gelatin Scaffolds for the Generation of Bioartificial Tissues
Authors: Ovsianikov Aleksandr , Deiwick Andrea , Van Vlierberghe Sandra , Pflaum Michael , Wilhelmi Mathias , Dubruel Peter , Chichkov Boris
Published: January 2011

In the present work, the two-photon polymerization (2PP) technique was applied to develop precisely defined biodegradable 3D tissue engineering scaffolds. The scaffolds were fabricated via photopolymerization of gelatin modified with methacrylamide moieties. The results indicate that the gelatin derivative (GelMod) preserves its enzymatic degradation capability after photopolymerization. In addition, the developed scaffolds using 2PP support primary adipose-derived stem cell (ASC) adhesion, proliferation and differentiation into the anticipated lineage.