bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Terminating Creatine Supplementation and Resistance Training on Anaerobic Power and Chosen Biochemical Variables in Male Subjects
Authors: Poprzecki Stanisław , Zając Adam , Czuba Miłosz , Waskiewicz Zbigniew
Published: August 2009

The Effects of Terminating Creatine Supplementation and Resistance Training on Anaerobic Power and Chosen Biochemical Variables in Male Subjects

The main objective of this study was to investigate the effects of alkaline creatine supplementation and resistance training termination on anaerobic power and chosen biochemical variables in men. Twenty-three untrained male subjects, which participated in this study, were divided into supplemented (S) (n=13, age 21.4±2.3 y) and placebo (PL) (n=10, age 22.1±2.6 y) groups. The participants from both groups performed resistance training 3 times a week, while subjects from group S were supplemented with alkaline creatine (ACr) for 4 weeks on their training day's with 66.8 mg/kg b.m., and on non training day's with 33.8 mg/kg b.m.

To evaluate anaerobic power, the 30s Wingate test was applied. The following variables were registered: relative mean power - RMP (W/kg), relative peak power - RPP (W/kg), time of reaching peak power - TRPP (s) and relative total work - RTW (J/kg). The test was administrated 5 times - before and after 4 weeks of training and supplementation, as well as the first, second and third week after terminating creatine intake and the resistance exercise protocol. Body mass and body composition was also evaluated during the same time span. Blood samples were drawn at rest before the Wingate test for the assessment of IGF-1, hGH, LA and CrN concentration, as well as creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities. Supplementation with alkaline creatine, combined with a progressive resistance training program, did not significantly influence (ANOVA) the level of RMP (p=0.49), RPP (p=0.31), TRPP (p=0.51), and RTW (p=0.58) in untrained male subjects. In the supplemental group, there was a significant decrease (p<0.01) in TRPP following creatine supplementation and training, yet these values were not significantly different from the control group. The supplementation and training protocol did not influence significantly body mass (p=0.68), yet post hoc analysis indicate a significant increase in body mass (p<0.001) only in group S. The applied supplementation and training protocol did not influence (ANOVA) the concentration of serum CrN (p=0.81), hGH) (p=0.26), CK (p=0.49) and LDH (p=0.64) activities. No significant changes were observed in resting blood LA concentrations of the tested subjects. It can be concluded that the ergogenic effect of creatine intake and resistance training was maintained for a week after terminating supplementation and exercise. During the next 2 weeks de-adaptation occurred and most indices of anaerobic power returned to initial values.
Sensation Seeking and Spatial Ability in Athletes: an Evolutionary Account
Authors: Hromatko Ivana , Butkovic Ana
Published: August 2009

Sensation Seeking and Spatial Ability in Athletes: an Evolutionary Account

The aim of this study was threefold: (a) to examine sex differences in sensation seeking and spatial abilities in a sample of athlete students, (b) to explore whether measures of sensation seeking and spatial ability can be used to distinguish between athletes engaging in sports of different levels of risk, and (c) to explore the relationship between sensation seeking and spatial abilities in a sample of athlete students. A total of 201 students athletes engaged in sports of different levels of risk completed the Spatial relations test, Mental rotation test, and Zuckerman's Sensation Seeking Scale-V. Men scored higher than women in both measures of spatial abilities and on DIS, while women scored higher than men on ES. High-risk group had higher SSS and TAS scores than low- and medium- risk groups, and low-risk group had lower DIS scores than medium- and high-risk group, but there were no differences in spatial ability among athletes engaged in sports of different levels of risk. Spatial ability correlated with sensation seeking measures in men only. The results are discussed in terms of possible common biological background of these two sex-dimorphic traits.
Characteristics of Physical Loads of Young Footballers During a Championship Match
Authors: Andrzejewski Marcin , Pluta Beata , Posiadała Dariusz
Published: August 2009

Characteristics of Physical Loads of Young Footballers During a Championship Match

The aim of the work was to characterize physical loads present during a champion match among young footballers. The research was conducted on a group of 10 football players at the age of 13.5 ± 0.4, with training experience of 4 years. The average body height of the players was 162.32 ± 7.73 cm and the average body mass was 51.12 ± 7.72 kg. In effort to analyze the selected motor performances of the players during the match, a kinematic method by Erdmann (2000) was applied. The analysis of motor activeness was conducted during the first and the second half of the game. The results are shown as arithmetic means and standard deviation. To compare the values, Student's t-test for the linked samples was applied. The significance level was p ≤ 0.05. The results of the study show that the total distance covered by the young football players averaged 4,252 metres. The longest, statistically relevant mean distance (p ≤ 0.05) was covered by the midfielders (4, 486 m). The analysis of the mean distance covered by the players with an established speed below the anaerobic threshold was 3,596 ± 207 metres, which makes up 84.57% of the total distance covered during the game. A thorough analysis of the number of sprints revealed that a player performs 18 of them on average throughout the game. The highest maximum running speed (7.0 m/s) was achieved by the midfielders. The defenders proved to be slowest (6.5 m/s), while the forwards had the second fastest average maximum running speed (6.8 m/s).
Sports Media in Turkey: A Sample on the University Students
Authors: Tavacioglu Leyla
Published: August 2009

Sports Media in Turkey: A Sample on the University Students

Sport has an important place among the basic factors of "modern life" in the 21st century. The governments and sources of power, which shape and direct the society, produce and promote all kinds of goods and politics by using sports as a medium in a mechanism that embraces the whole life. This both creates a large area of movement for these power sources and also makes it possible to give the target audiences an unlimited area of freedom. Sport, as a social institution, has close and intense interactions with other social institutions like family, education, economy and media. Media has become an irreplaceable part of our social lives, especially with the effect of technological developments. Many social scientists have, in their researches, questioned the effects of mass communication vehicles on personal and social life, and tried to explain the individual and social behavior models by using sociological and socio-psychological approaches. Media and sport are indeed structures, which influence and nurture each other. However, in Turkey, one cannot claim that the broadcasting policy of the sport media has developed by consciously following the sports agenda. Objective: In this study it was aimed to show the degree of interest in, and consumption of, the sports media in Turkey. Material and Method: 400 students who study at Istanbul Technical University (ITU) and Marmara University (MU) have participated in our study. The study comprised of students who are active and inactive in sports. The survey included 46 questions on all sports branches (e.g. volleyball, basketball, winter sports, summer sports). The results have been reached by evaluating the survey on students' interest in sports, and their consumption of sports media.
Influence of Patricipation in Leisure Time Physical Activity on Tobacco and Alcohol Consumption among Former Athletes and Non Athletes
Authors: Woitas-Ślubowska Donata
Published: August 2009

Influence of Patricipation in Leisure Time Physical Activity on Tobacco and Alcohol Consumption among Former Athletes and Non Athletes

The purpose of the study was to recognise relationships between participation in leisure time physical activity (LTPA) and smoking and alcohol consumption among former athletes (FA) and individuals with no sports experience (NA). In Spring-Summer periods in the years 1997-2002 within the purposively sampled groups of FA (n=312) and people NA (n=417) - an anonymous survey was conducted concerning their socioeconomic status, participation in LTPA, smoking and alcohol consumption. The age of examined FA and NA ranged from 18 to 51 years. Respondents' participation in LTPA was measured as follows: frequency, time and forms of LTPA. For evaluation of respondents' smoking status in the last six months the following categories were used: I do not smoke, I smoked occasionally, I smoked 1 to 10 cigarettes/day, and I smoked more than 10 cigarettes/day. Variables describing alcohol consumption involve frequency of drinking alcohol beverages and type of consumed alcohol beverages. It has shown that among male FA was a significantly lower rate of non-smokers, as compared to male NA. No correlation was found between LTPA and smoking and alcohol consumption among women FA and NA. Negative correlation between participation in LTPA and smoking and alcohol consumption was found in both male groups. The results obtained allow us to draw a conclusion that promoting participation in competitive sports or LTPA is a valuable means to complement intervention programmes focused on the reduction and elimination of tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption addressed to men.
Tectonics and sedimentation of the Lower and Middle Pleistocene mixed siliciclastic/bioclastic sedimentary successions of the Ionian Peloritani Mts (NE Sicily, Southern Italy): the onset of opening of the Messina Strait
Authors: Stefano Agata , Longhitano Sergio
Published: August 2009

Biostratigraphic analyses carried out on siliciclastic/bioclastic deposits discontinuously cropping out along the Ionian flank of NE Sicily, indicate that they form two sedimentary events of Early and Middle Pleistocene, respec tively. Vertical facies successions, showing transgressive trends, suggest that sedimentation occurred within semi-enclosed marine embayments, where sublittoral coastal wedges developed on steep ramp-type shelves. Sediments accumulated in shoreface to offshore transitions along steep bottom profiles. This depositional scenario was strongly conditioned by the tectonic activity of the rift zone linking Western Calabria and Eastern Sicily. The effects of glacio-eustatism were also recognized. According to our reconstruction, the study area was controlled by a transfer fault system which affected the coastal margin producing major episodes of uplift and subsidence. Block-faulting was responsible for significant cannibalization and recycling of older deposits during the Middle Pleistocene. Such a tectonic setting can be considered the precursor scenario for the formation of the Messina Strait between Calabria and Sicily. This narrow, linear basin influences the hydrodynamic setting of sublittoral deposits along the Ionian coast of Sicily, giving rise to strong flood/ebb tidal currents. The uppermost part of the Middle Pleistocene succession recognized in the study area is indeed dominated by tide-influenced associations of sedimentary structures which most likely record the first stage of the opening of this ‘seaway’ of the central Mediterranean Sea.
Groundwater potential zonation for basaltic watersheds using satellite remote sensing data and GIS techniques
Authors: Pradhan Biswajeet
Published: August 2009

This paper summarizes the findings of groundwater potential zonation mapping at the Bharangi River basin, Thane district, Maharastra, India, using Satty’s Analytical Hierarchal Process model with the aid of GIS tools and remote sensing data. To meet the objectives, remotely sensed data were used in extracting lineaments, faults and drainage pattern which influence the groundwater sources to the aquifer. The digitally processed satellite images were subsequently combined in a GIS with ancillary data such as topographical (slope, drainage), geological (litho types and lineaments), hydrogeomorphology and constructed into a spatial database using GIS and image processing tools. In this study, six thematic layers were used for groundwater potential analysis. Each thematic layer’s weight was determined, and groundwater potential indices were calculated using groundwater conditions. The present study has demonstrated the capabilities of remote sensing and GIS techniques in the demarcation of different groundwater potential zones for hard rock basaltic basin.
Nyerereite from carbonatite rocks at Vulture volcano: implications for mantle metasomatism and petrogenesis of alkali carbonate melts Research Article
Authors: Stoppa Francesco , Jones Adrian , Sharygin Victor
Published: August 2009

Vulture volcano displays a wide range of mafic to alkaline, carbonate-, and/or CaO-rich volcanic rocks, with subvolcanic and plutonic rocks together with mantle xenoliths in pyroclastic ejecta. The roles of magmatic volatiles such as CO2, S, and Cl have been determined from compositions and trapping temperatures of inclusions in phenocrysts, which include the Na-K-Ca-carbonate nyerereite within melilite. We surmise that this alkali carbonate crystallised from an appropriate carbonatitic melt at relatively high temperature. Carbonatitic metasomatic features are traceable throughout many of the mantle xenoliths, and various carbonatitic components are found in the late stage extrusive suite. There is no evidence that alkali carbonatite developed as a separate magma, but it may have been an important evolutionary stage. We compare the rare occurrence of nyerereite at Vulture with other carbonatites and with an unaltered kimberlite from the Udachnaya pipe. We review the evidence at Vulture for associated carbonatitic metasomatism in the mantle, and we suggest that low viscosity alkali carbonatitic melts may have a primary and much deeper origin than previously considered.
On an application of cluster analysis for classification of valley cross profiles using special orthonormal functions
Authors: Waelder Olga
Published: August 2009

Morphometric approaches deal with obtaining quantitative parameters of relief forms. In particular, such parameters can be used for the classification of diverse relief forms. There is a noticeable demand for such approaches in geosciences. For example, the differentiation of valley forms belongs to the research field of geomorphology. A valley form includes important information with respect to the valley genesis. It is assumed that the U-shape probably corresponds to a glacier-induced valley, but the V-shape reflects the fluvial genesis of a valley. A prior generalisation of valley cross-profiles is necessary in order to obtain their morphometric parameters. These parameters contribute to the valley differentiation. The conventional generalisation approaches are based on the approximation of such cross-profiles using a special function. This function can be a catenary curve, a special polynomial or a set of polynomials. An alternative model is the GPL model. In this paper we propose a new generalisation approach, which uses special orthonormal functions. Based on these functions, form coefficients can be obtained for use in cluster analysis, resulting in the shape classification of valley cross profiles. An application of our approach for a real data set is presented.
Hydrogeochemical characteristics and genetic implications of Edipsos thermal springs, north Euboea, Greece
Authors: Kelepertsis Akindynos , Tziritis Evangelos , Kelepertzis Eustratios , Leontakianakos Giorgos , Pallas Kostas
Published: August 2009

Edipsos area, situated in northern Euboea, has been well known since ancient times for the existence of thermal springs. In order to assess the hydrogeochemical conditions, thermal and cold water samples were collected and analyzed by ICP method for major and trace elements. The results revealed the direct impact of seawater, a process which is strongly related to the major tectonic structures of the area. Seawater impact was confirmed by the Cl/Br and Na/Cl ionic ratios, as well as from statistical processing and graphical interpretation of the analytical results, which classified the sampled waters into three groups (two for cold waters and one for the thermal ones). Trace element ranges for thermal waters are: As (44–84 ppb), Pb (23–154 ppb), Ag (1–2 ppb), Mn (31–680 ppb), Cu (61–97 ppb), Cs (66–244 ppb), Se (0–76 ppb), Li (732–3269 ppb), Fe (0–1126 ppb), Sr (14000–34100 ppb), B (4300–9600 ppb).

Compared with the chemical composition of other thermal springs from the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, Edipsos thermal waters are enriched in Ca2+, Na+, Cl−, SO4
2−, Li, B and K+, reflecting the influence from seawater. Cold waters are free of heavy metals compared with other natural waters and are characterized by good quality based on the major element chemistry. Finally, several geothermometers were applied in order to assess the reservoir temperatures, but none of them appear to be applicable, mainly due to the impact of seawater on the initial hydrogeochemistry of the geothermal fluids.
Sequence stratigraphy of a Mesozoic carbonate platform-to-basin system in western Sicily
Authors: Basilone Luca
Published: August 2009

Sequence stratigraphic studies of the Triassic through Paleogene carbonate successions of platform, slope and basin in western Sicily (Palermo and Termini Imerese Mountains) have identified a sedimentary cyclicity mostly caused by relative oscillations of sea level. The stratigraphic successions of the Imerese and Panormide palaeogeographic domains of the southern Tethyan continental margin were studied with physical-stratigraphy and facies analysis to reconstruct the sedimentary evolution of this platform-to-basin system.

The Imerese Basin is characterized by a carbonate and siliceous-calcareous succession, 1200–1400m thick, Late Triassic to Eocene in age. The strata display a typical example of a carbonate platform margin, characterized by resedimented facies with progradational stacking patterns. The Panormide Carbonate Platform is characterized by a carbonate succession, 1000–1200 m thick, Late Triassic to Late Eocene, mostly consisting of shallow-water facies with periodic subaerial exposure.

The cyclic arrangement has been obtained by the study of the stratigraphic signatures (unconformities, facies sequences, erosional surfaces and stratal geometries) found in the slope successions. The recognized pattern has been compared with coeval facies of the shelf. This correlation provided evidence of sedimentary evolution, influenced by progradation and backstepping of the shelf deposits.

The stratigraphic architecture of the platform-to-basin system is characterized by four major transgressive/regressive cycles during the late Triassic to late Eocene.

These cycles, framed in a chronostratigraphic chart, allows the correlation of the investigated shelf-to-basin system with the geological evolution of the African continental margin during the Mesozoic, showing tectono-eustatic cycles. The first cycle, encompassing the late Triassic to early Jurassic, appears to be related to the late syn-rift stage of the continental margin evolution. The following three cycles, spanning from the Jurassic to Eocene, can be related to the post-rift evolution and to thermal subsidence changes.
Monitoring the mining effect at drainage basin level using geoinformation technologies
Authors: Naydenova Vanya , Roumenina Eugenia
Published: August 2009

One of the priority lines of modern regional policy with regard to mining is a territory’s sustainable use. One of the key issues is the development of local level monitoring systems to assess and control territories that are subject to intensive anthropogenic activity. The current work proposes a developed geodatabase model for remote sensing and ground-based monitoring of the effects of coal mining at drainage level using geoinformation technologies. Based on this model, the Kutina geographic information system for the drainage basin of the Kutina River has been constructed. The geodatabase is open and may be updated and supplemented with other types of information. This is the first monitoring of coal mining’s anthropogenic impact on the land cover and the Kutina Pyramids natural landmark carried out on the territory of the Kutina River drainage basin, Bulgaria. It may assist local level managerial decision-making, among others. Generation of landslide processes and self-ignition of coal layers has been identified as well. The recorded change in the hydrographic network resulting from the performed open coal extraction affects directly the change of the erosion basis. Its increase enhances lateral erosion at the expense of vertical, which is one of the major causes for the Kutina Pyramids natural landmark’s degradation.
The Carpathian Mountain range and the enclosed interior
Authors: Földvary Gabor
Published: August 2009

The baffling duality of the Carpathian Mountain Range and the Basin it surrounds is briefly discussed. The various attempts at solving the nature of this duality, including plate tectonics with its micro-plates are mentioned. The component ranges of the Carpathians and the structural belts are given, followed by the discussion of the Carpathian Basin System, the Interior, consisting of the Great Hungarian Plain, Transdanubia, the two groups of Central Mountains, also the Apuseni (Bihar) Mountains and the Banat Contact Belt. Economic ore deposits are featured in the relevant sections.
How surface latent heat flux is related to lower-tropospheric stability in southern subtropica marine stratus and stratocumulus regions
Authors: He Yanping
Published: August 2009

The relationship between surface latent heat flux and the lower-tropospheric stability (LTS) is examined using ERA-40 reanalysis, NCEP reanalysis and COADS (Comprehensive Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set) ship data in two southern subtropical marine stratus and stratocumulus regions. The change of surface latent heat flux with LTS is determined by a comparison of the correlation of LTS with surface wind speed and with near surface humidity difference. At intermediate LTS (10 K-15 K), both surface evaporation and downward surface radiation flux amplify small LTS perturbations due to the surface wind-LTS relationship and cloud-radiation feedback. At high LTS, surface latent heat flux exceeds its peak value and becomes a regulating mechanism to keep LTS at its commonly observed equilibrium value. Surface radiation flux is seen to decrease at a smaller rate with LTS than surface latent heat flux. By applying the regulating effect of LTS on near surface humidity differences, monthly surface latent heat flux can be better represented.
Multidimensional Comparative Analysis of Demographic Growth of Voivodeships in Poland
Authors: Sojka Elżbieta
Published: August 2009

Multidimensional Comparative Analysis of Demographic Growth of Voivodeships in Poland

The article presents results of a multidimensional comparative analysis of the level of demographic development of voivodeships in Poland in years 1999-2006. Hellwig's synthetic measure of a development pattern was applied and on its basis the classification of voivodeships into homogenous typological groups was carried out with regard to demographic development.

The results of the research have pointed to a significant influence of socio-economic factors on the extent of advancement of given voivodeships in reaching a modern type of population reproduction.
Spatial Distribution of EU Structural Funds in Poland in 2004-2006 - Factors, Directions, and Limitations
Authors: Płaziak Monika , Trzepacz Piotr
Published: August 2009

Spatial Distribution of EU Structural Funds in Poland in 2004-2006 - Factors, Directions, and Limitations

In 2004, Poland joined the European Union. This access means the possibility of taking advantage of European Union Structural Funds. Apart from this the structural funds play another important role. The popularity of the idea of European integration in countries like Poland depends largely on the effectiveness of this financial support, which theoretically should lead to economic and social development on different levels (local, regional, national, and even continental). The main problem of relying on EU funds is their unequal availability, which is limited, for example, because of the granting principles.
Conditions of Spatial Diversity of Registered and Actual Populations at a Local Level in Poland
Authors: Raczyk Andrzej
Published: August 2009

Conditions of Spatial Diversity of Registered and Actual Populations at a Local Level in Poland

The observed lack of conformity between the population measured by category of registration for permanent residence and the actual population is on the one hand a consequence of the limitations connected with public statistics and on the other it is the result of increasing temporary spatial mobility. Beside the scale of this phenomenon, its spatial dimension is particularly significant as, together with official statistics concerning population inflow and outflow, it defines the real intensity and directions of migration.

The basic objective of this study was to examine the scale and conditions connected with the shaping of spatial diversities between the size of registered and actual populations. The analysis was conducted, above all, in relation to economic factors creating these differences. The analysis was carried out in relation to the units of LAU2 level in Poland.

The conducted analysis indicated that economic and education-related conditions played an important role in the shaping of temporary registered migration. This also confirmed the existence of a link between temporary registered migration and human capital as well as the level of economic development of particular regions. Spatial structure of temporary registered migration was similar to non-registered migration structure. Thus, it may help define general directions of informal population migration.
Analysis of Relationships Between Distribution of Population and Spatial Economy of Communes in the Kraków Metropolitan Area
Authors: Gorczyca Katarzyna
Published: August 2009

Analysis of Relationships Between Distribution of Population and Spatial Economy of Communes in the Kraków Metropolitan Area

The expansion of developed areas is one the factors that influence the distribution of population. Spatial policy implemented by communes reflects the existing tendencies but is also a factor that moulds the occurring processes. The aim of this article is to present the planned development of areas designated for investing, depending on the existing density of population. The article presents relationships between location and present distribution of population, and planned degree of expansion of development of communes located within the Kraków Metropolitan Area (the "KMA"). The range of areas designated for investing was analysed based on valid commune planning documents, which means that the article took into account 52 land use plans concerning all the communes that form the Kraków Metropolitan Area. The object of analysis is the spatial policy of communes related to the expansion of development, as well as demographic conditions of the Kraków Metropolitan Area.
On the Necessity of the History of Geographical Thought
Authors: Wilczyński Witold
Published: August 2009

On the Necessity of the History of Geographical Thought

Studies in the area of history and philosophy of geography have disappeared in Poland for the last fifty years. The aim of this paper is to restore its importance and show reasons for its revival. They can be found in societal, scientific, and educational contexts in which we practice geography. History of geographical thought contains numerous ideas which could be useful in activities aimed at understanding and reconciling different visions of reality, since geography is the study of diversity, understood as a source of unity. The most popular example of this is the fundamental principle of classical geography "Unity in diversity", that has been accepted as the banner slogan of contemporary Europe. This example shows that the history of geographical thought is the reservoir of ideas, which still await their rediscovery. It should be also utilized to restore geography's identity and rationale, as well as to create new lines of thought which could make geography a socially relevant field.
Katowice Region in the Light of the Selected Conceptions of Social-Economic Transformations
Authors: Runge Jerzy
Published: August 2009

Katowice Region in the Light of the Selected Conceptions of Social-Economic Transformations

Taking into consideration all conceptions of economic and social development discussed here it should be concluded that

-- non of the classical models of social transformation is represented in the Katowice region in homogeneous form. In fact, only modernisation (as it is a historical aspect) is most distinguished among others;

-- it is possible that features typical for several models of economic or social transformations occur at the same time. This concerns spatial approaches.

The consequence of frequent fragmentation of social-economic reality in numerous theoretical conceptions and proposals of restructuring changes is a narrow understanding of the research problems. It seems, therefore, that conceptions of social development created on the basis of sociology may be successfully applied in social geography. The condition here is not only taking into account spatial aspects but also the possibility of applying several models of transformations at the same time.
Prediction of Water Quality in the Danube River Under extreme Hydrological and Temperature Conditions
Authors: Pekárová Pavla , Onderka Milan , Pekár Ján , Rončák Peter , Miklánek Pavol
Published: August 2009

Prediction of Water Quality in the Danube River Under extreme Hydrological and Temperature Conditions

One of the requirements imposed by the Water Framework Directive (WFD, 2000/60/EC) is to analyze and predict how quality of surface waters will evolve in the future. In assessing the development of a stream's pollution one must consider all sources of pollution and understand how water quality evolves over time. Flow and water temperature regime of a stream or river are the main factors controlling the extent to which deterioration of a stream's water quality can propagate under constant input from pollution sources. In addition, there is ever increasing public concern about the state of the aquatic environment. Decision makers and scientists involved in water management call for studies proposing simulation models of water quality under extreme natural hydrologic and climatic scenarios. Also, human impact on water resources remain an issue for discussion, especially when it comes to sustainability of water resources with respect to water quality and ecosystem health. In the present study we investigate the long-term trends in water quality variables of the Danube River at Bratislava, Slovakia (Chl-a, Ca, EC, SO2-, Cl-, O2, BOD5, N-tot, PO4-P, NO3-N, NO2-N, etc.), for the period 1991-2005. Several SARIMA models were tested for the long-term prediction of selected pollutant concentrations under various flow and water temperature conditions. In order to create scenarios of selected water quality variables with prediction for 12 months ahead, three types of possible hydrologic and water temperature conditions were defined: i) average conditions - median flows and water temperature; ii) low flows and high water temperature; and iii) high flows and low water temperature. These conditions were derived for each month using daily observations of water temperature and daily discharge readings taken in the Danube at Bratislava over the period 1931-2005 in the form of percentiles (1th-percentile, median, 99th-percentile). Once having derived these extreme-case scenarios, we used selected Box-Jenkins models (with two regressors - discharge and water temperature) to simulate the extreme monthly water quality variables. The impact of natural and man-made changes in a stream's hydrology on water quality can be readily well simulated by means of autoregressive models.
The Effect of Cellular Organic Matter Produced by Cyanobacteria Microcystis Aeruginosa on Water Purification
Authors: Pivokonský Martin , Pivokonská Lenka , Bäumeltová Jitka , Bubáková Petra
Published: August 2009

The Effect of Cellular Organic Matter Produced by Cyanobacteria Microcystis Aeruginosa on Water Purification

The aim of this paper is to investigate the influence of COM (Cellular Organic Matter) produced byMicrocystis aeruginosaon the process of water purification by destabilisation and subsequent aggregation of the impurity particles. The research was carried out with a raw water into which COM was added. The removal efficiency of the most significant components of COM, i.e. polysaccharides and proteins, was investigated. It was found that the removal efficiency of polysaccharides and proteins was dependent on the reaction conditions (pH, type of destabilisation reagent and its dosage). The removal efficiency of COM was relatively low. It was about 46% and 41% using ferric sulphate and aluminium sulphate aggregation, respectively. In comparison to the other organic components of COM, mainly polysaccharides, the proteins are removed with a higher efficiency. The GPC analyses of the residual COM showed that the proteins of higher molecular weight were aggregated with a higher efficiency.
Identification of compound channel flow parameters
Authors: Abida Habib
Published: August 2009

Identification of compound channel flow parameters

Optimization methods are used to estimate parameters required for routing floods through open compound channels. Besides initial and boundary flow conditions, data required especially include, cross-sectional area (A) of flow and conveyance (K) as functions of flow depth (y) for a representative cross-section of the study reach. Thus, instead of optimizing upon channel's geometric and hydraulic parameters, optimization is performed upon non-physical parameters in assumedA(y) andK(y) relationships. The optimization method selected for this application is the Nelder and Mead Simplex Algorithm. The objective function is expressed in terms of the relative differences between observed and simulated stages and discharges, which are evaluated based on the complete numerical solution of St Venant equations. This approach to formulating the optimization problem was applied to unsteady flow data sets for an experimental reach of the River Main in Northern Ireland. Based on statistical analysis, simulated and observed stages were found to be in good agreement.
Numerical model of spherical particle saltation in a channel with a transversely tilted rough bed
Authors: Lukerchenko Nikolay , Piatsevich Siarhei , Chara Zdenek , Vlasak Pavel
Published: August 2009

Numerical model of spherical particle saltation in a channel with a transversely tilted rough bed

This paper deals with the numerical simulation of spherical particle saltation in a channel with a rough transversely tilted bed. The numerical model presented is based on the 3D model of spherical particle saltation developed by the authors, which takes into account the translational and rotational particle motion. The stochastic method and the concept of a contact zone were used for the calculation of a particle trajectory and its dependence on the bed lateral slope, particle diameter, and shear velocity. The effect of the bed lateral slope results in a deviation of the particle trajectory from the downstream direction. Some examples of the calculation are presented. The trajectories of the saltating particles starting their movements from one point were calculated and it was shown that they are of random character and together create a bundle or fascicle of trajectories. It was found that the centrelines of the bundles can be approximated by the straight lines for low and moderate values of the bed transverse slope, i.e. slopes less than 20°. The angle of deviation of the centreline from the downstream direction increases when the bed lateral slope and/or the particle diameters increase. However, with increasing shear velocity, the deviation angle decreases. Due to the lateral bed slope the particles are sorted according to their size, and the criteria for sorting particles were defined. An example of the particle sorting was calculated and the separable and non-separable regions were determined.
Changes in Organisational Culture in Schools and Readiness of Teachers for Those Changes
Authors: Salumaa Tarmo
Published: August 2009

Changes in Organisational Culture in Schools and Readiness of Teachers for Those Changes

An investigation into Estonia's educators' representations of organisational culture, based on the typologies of R. Harrison and C. Handy, and into the educators' cognitive orientation on the basis of J. Rotter's internality/externality scale was carried out. The aim was to determine, whether the organisational culture in Estonia's schools supports the sustainable development of teachers. The study revealed that amongst Estonia's teachers the individuality-oriented individualistic culture dominated, and that almost half of the teachers had an external locus of control. The conclusion was drawn that the culture of learning organisation was not characteristic of Estonia's schools, while that type of culture would best support the professional and sustainable development of teachers.
Education Policies and Teacher Education Programs: Meeting the Millennium Development Goals
Authors: Ololube Nwachukwu , Egbezor Daniel , Kpolovie Peter
Published: August 2009

Education Policies and Teacher Education Programs: Meeting the Millennium Development Goals

This paper explores the present situation regarding the education policies and teacher education programs in Nigeria in light of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) cited in the 2000 United Nations Millennium Declaration. The MDGs declaration helped awaken nations to the need for structural features that empower education policy makers and planners in creating effective educational systems. A survey was used to gather data from teachers and school administrators in Nigeria. The data suggested that both teachers and school administrators are discontented with the lethargic policies and implementation of programs in meeting global standards. In particular, the empiric data could be useful for education policymakers, planners, administrators, and researchers who need information that might help them to improve their activities and deal with the controversial issues.
Genotoxic mechanisms for the carcinogenicity of the environmental pollutants and carcinogens o-anisidine and 2-nitroanisole follow from adducts generated by their metabolite N-(2-methoxyphenyl)hydroxylamine with deoxyguanosine in DNA
Authors: Stiborová Marie , Naiman Karel , Martínková Markéta , Martínek Václav , Svobodová Martina , Schmeiser Heinz , Frei Eva
Published: August 2009

Genotoxic mechanisms for the carcinogenicity of the environmental pollutants and carcinogenso-anisidine and 2-nitroanisole follow from adducts generated by their metaboliteN-(2-methoxyphenyl)hydroxylamine with deoxyguanosine in DNA

An aromatic amine,o-anisidine (2-methoxyaniline) and its oxidative counterpart, 2-nitroanisole (2-methoxynitrobenzene), are the industrial and environmental pollutants causing tumors of the urinary bladder in rats and mice. Both carcinogens are activated to the same proximate carcinogenic metabolite,N-(2-methoxyphenyl)hydroxylamine, which spontaneously decomposes to nitrenium and/or carbenium ions responsible for formation of deoxyguanosine adducts in DNAin vitroandin vivo. In other words, generation ofN-(2-methoxyphenyl)hydroxylamine is responsible for the genotoxic mechanisms of the o-anisidine and 2-nitroanisole carcinogenicity. Analogous enzymes of human and rat livers are capable of activating these carcinogens. Namely, human and rat cytochorme P450 2E1 is the major enzyme oxidizingo-anisidine toN-(2-methoxyphenyl)hydroxylamine, while xanthine oxidase of both species reduces 2-nitroanisole to this metabolite. Likewise,O-demethylation of 2-nitroanisole, which is the detoxication pathway of its metabolism, is also catalyzed by the same human and rat enzyme, cytochorme P450 2E1. The results demonstrate that the rat is a suitable animal model mimicking the fate of both carcinogens in humans and suggest that both compounds are potential carcinogens also for humans.
Reach - an overview
Authors: Čihák Rostislav
Published: August 2009

Reach - an overview

An outline of the new European policy in the management of chemicals is given. This new system is known under the acronym REACH which stands for Registration, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals. The background, objectives, requirements and the operation of REACH are briefly explained.
‘Mountain resorts’: origins and evolution
Authors: Kowalczyk Andrzej
Published: August 2009

The paper discusses the background for the emergence of such ‘mountain resorts’, their types and changes in their mode of operation. Some theoretical and practical issues will be illustrated with examples derived from Europe, North America, Asia and Africa.
Museums in former residences: castles, palaces and manor houses
Authors: Krakowiak Beata , Latosińska Jolanta
Published: August 2009

The article concerns former residences in Poland and their contemporary use as museums. The authors present the history of Polish residences, the development of museums in castles, palaces and manor houses, their spatial distribution and the relations between the type of building and that of the museum collection.
The urbanization of summer holiday estates surrounding Łódź: Wiśniowa Góra
Authors: Matczak Andrzej
Published: August 2009

The article presents the reconstruction of the urbanization process in Wiśniowa Góra, a village near Łódź. It came into being in 1870 as a farming village, surrounded by a forest. After several years the holiday function developed there, which became the base for the general development of the destination during the inter-war period. In 1945 - 1989 Wiśniowa Góra became a dormitory village and a summer holiday estate. The political and economic transformation, which started in 1989, has led to the collapse of the holiday function and the development of the residential function, thus transforming Wiśniowa Góra into a Łódź suburb.
The tourism attractiveness of Polish libraries
Authors: Miedzińska Magdalena , Tanaś Sławoj
Published: August 2009

The aim of the article is to draw the reader's attention to the tourism attractiveness of renowned Polish libraries. These have attained a tourism function due to tourism exploration and penetration, but remain in the shadow of other Polish cultural assets. The article outlines the historical geography of Polish libraries, an analysis of tourism assets and an attempt to classify and catalogue libraries in Poland.
Activation of the polish coastal tourist reception region using the instrument of a Public-Private Partnership
Authors: Szwichtenberg Aleksander
Published: August 2009

Public-Private Partnership (PPP) is a form of cooperation between the public sector and the private in order to carry out projects or services traditionally supplied by the public sector. This mode of investment is most commonly applied to the creation of technological infrastructure projects. According to the author PPP will allow coastal tourist communes (gminas) to speed up the implementation of the communication infrastructure, and the sport and recreational infrastructure which are presently major barriers to the development of the tourist economy. This is further confirmed by examples presented in this work.
The effect of final cuts on the density, growth and health condition of pine natural regeneration in the territory of the Tuszyma Forest District
Authors: Andrzejczyk Tadeusz , Aleksandrowicz-Trzcińska Marta , Żybura Henryk
Published: August 2009

Wpływ cięć rębnych na zagęszczenie, wzrost i stan zdrowotny odnowień naturalnych sosny w warunkach Nadleśnictwa Tuszyma
Correlations between phenolic compounds in wood and its decay by chosen species of saprotrophic and parasitic fungi
Authors: Zarzyński Paweł
Published: August 2009

Ocena zależności między występowaniem w drewnie substancji o charakterze fenolowym a jego rozkładem przez wybrane gatunki grzybów saprotroficznych i pasożytniczych
Community structure of the oak leaf-miners, Phyllonorycter Hbn. (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae), in various types of forest habitat
Authors: Jaworski Tomasz
Published: August 2009

Struktura zgrupowań motyli z rodzaju Phyllonorycter Hbn. (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae), minujących liście dębów w różnych typach siedliskowych lasu
Effect of hydrotechnical constructions on the Oder river on the phytosociological diversity of riparian habitats in the Prawików forest
Authors: Cieśla Adam
Published: August 2009

Wpływ zabudowy hydrotechnicznej Odry na zróżnicowanie fitosocjologiczne siedlisk łęgowych kompleksu leśnego Prawików
Muscle Deficits Persist After Unilateral Knee Replacement and Have Implications for Rehabilitation
Authors: Valtonen Anu , Pöyhönen Tapani , Heinonen Ari , Sipilä Sarianna
Published: August 2009

Background

Knee joint arthritis causes pain, decreased range of motion, and mobility limitation. Knee replacement reduces pain effectively. However, people with knee replacement have decreases in muscle strength (“force-generating capacity”) of the involved leg and difficulties with walking and other physical activities.

Objective and Design

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine the extent of deficits in knee extensor and flexor muscle torque and power (ability to perform work over time) and in the extensor muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) after knee joint replacement. In addition, the association of lower-leg muscle deficits with mobility limitations was investigated.

Methods

Participants were 29 women and 19 men who were 55 to 75 years old and had undergone unilateral knee replacement surgery an average of 10 months earlier. The maximal torque and power of the knee extensor and flexor muscles were measured with an isokinetic dynamometer. The knee extensor muscle CSA was measured with computed tomography. The symmetry deficit between the knee that underwent replacement surgery (“operated knee”) and the knee that did not undergo replacement surgery (“nonoperated knee”) was calculated. Maximal walking speed and stair-ascending and stair-descending times were assessed.

Results

The mean deficits in knee extensor and flexor muscle torque and power were between 13% and 27%, and the mean deficit in the extensor muscle CSA was 14%. A larger deficit in knee extension power predicted slower stair-ascending and stair-descending times. This relationship remained unchanged when the power of the nonoperated side and the potential confounding factors were taken into account.

Limitations

The study sample consisted of people who were relatively healthy and mobile. Some participants had osteoarthritis in the nonoperated knee.

Conclusions

Deficits in muscle torque and power and in the extensor muscle CSA were present 10 months after knee replacement, potentially causing limitations in negotiating stairs. To prevent mobility limitations and disability, deficits in lower-limb power should be considered during rehabilitation after knee replacement.
Tighter Border Security and Its Effect on Canadian Exports
Authors: Burt Michael
Published: August 2009

This paper assesses the impact that tighter border security in a post–9/11 world has had on Canada’s exports to the United States. Export flows are examined in a variety of ways, including aggregate exports, exports by port, and exports by commodity. After accounting for economic growth in the United States and relative prices between the two countries, this paper finds little evidence that tighter border security has reduced export volumes.