bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Psychometric Validation of the Internal and External Motivation to Respond Without Prejudice Toward People With Disabilities Scale
Authors: Pruett Steven R. , Deiches Jon , Pfaller Joseph , Moser Erin , Chan Fong
Published: February 2014

Objective: To determine the factorial validity of the Internal and External Motivation to Respond without Prejudice toward People with Disabilities Scale (D-IMS/EMS).

Design: A quantitative descriptive design using factor analysis.

Participants: 233 rehabilitation counseling and rehabilitation services students.

Results: Both exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis provided evidence for the 2-factor structure of the D-IMS/EMS. The internal motivation and external motivation factors were found to correlate with the Attitudes toward Disabled Persons—Form A and the Contact with Disabled Persons Scale in the predicted direction.

Conclusions: The D-IMS/EMS appears to have sufficient reliability and validity; the 2-factor solution was found to be acceptable. Further research with other groups of participants is needed.
Employment Impact of Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Taxes
Authors: Powell Lisa M. , Wada Roy , Persky Joseph J. , Chaloupka Frank J.
Published: February 2014

Objectives. We assessed the impact of sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) taxes on net employment.

Methods. We used a macroeconomic simulation model to assess the employment impact of a 20% SSB tax accounting for changes in SSB demand, substitution to non-SSBs, income effects, and government expenditures of tax revenues for Illinois and California in 2012.

Results. We found increased employment of 4406 jobs in Illinois and 6654 jobs in California, representing a respective 0.06% and 0.03% change in employment. Declines in employment within the beverage industry occurred but were offset by new employment in nonbeverage industry and government sectors.

Conclusions. SSB taxes do not have a negative impact on state-level employment, and industry claims of regional job losses are overstated and may mislead lawmakers and constituents.
Drinking Water Systems, Hydrology, and Childhood Gastrointestinal Illness in Central and Northern Wisconsin
Authors: Uejio Christopher K. , Yale Steven H. , Malecki Kristen , Borchardt Mark A. , Anderson Henry A. , Patz Jonathan A.
Published: February 2014

Objectives. This study investigated if the type of drinking water source (treated municipal, untreated municipal, and private well water) modifies the effect of hydrology on childhood (aged < 5 years) gastrointestinal illness.

Methods. We conducted a time series study to assess the relationship between hydrologic and weather conditions with childhood gastrointestinal illness from 1991 to 2010. The Central and Northern Wisconsin study area includes households using all 3 types of drinking water systems. Separate time series models were created for each system and half-year period (winter/spring, summer/fall).

Results. More precipitation (summer/fall) systematically increased childhood gastrointestinal illness in municipalities accessing untreated water. The relative risk of contracting gastrointestinal illness was 1.4 in weeks with 3 centimeters of precipitation and 2.4 in very wet weeks with 12 centimeters of precipitation. By contrast, gastrointestinal illness in private well and treated municipal areas was not influenced by hydrologic conditions, although warmer winter temperatures slightly increased incidence.

Conclusions. Our study suggests that improved drinking water protection, treatment, and delivery infrastructure may improve public health by specifically identifying municipal water systems lacking water treatment that may transmit waterborne disease.
Public Health Practice Is Not Research
Authors: Otto Jean Lin , Holodniy Mark , DeFraites Robert F.
Published: February 2014

Scientific and clinical activities undertaken by public health agencies may be misconstrued as medical research.

Most discussions of regulatory and legal oversight of medical research focus on activities involving either patients in clinical practice or volunteers in clinical trials. These discussions often exclude similar activities that constitute or support core functions of public health practice. As a result, public health agencies and practitioners may be held to inappropriate regulatory standards regarding research.

Through the lens of the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs, and using several case studies from these departments, we offer a framework for the adjudication of activities common to research and public health practice that could assist public health practitioners, research oversight authorities, and scientific journals in determining whether such activities require regulatory review and approval as research.
Mitigating the Health Risks of Dining Out: The Need for Standardized Portion Sizes in Restaurants
Authors: Cohen Deborah A. , Story Mary
Published: February 2014

Because restaurants routinely serve food with more calories than people need, dining out represents a risk factor for overweight, obesity, and other diet-related chronic diseases.

Most people lack the capacity to judge the caloric content of food and there is limited evidence that people make use of calorie-labeling information when it is available. Standardized portion sizes would not preclude people from eating as much as they want, but would make the amount they are getting fully transparent.

We describe the potential benefits and means of implementing a system of standardized portion sizes that might facilitate a healthier diet among the US population.
Healthy Homes: In-Home Environmental Asthma Intervention in a Diverse Urban Community
Authors: Turcotte David A. , Alker Heather , Chaves Emily , Gore Rebecca , Woskie Susan
Published: February 2014

Objectives. We evaluated health outcomes associated with in-home interventions in low-income urban households with children with asthma.

Methods. A comprehensive health and environmental assessment and subsequent intervention were completed in 116 households with 170 enrolled children with asthma. Home health workers provided household safety, asthma prevention education, and targeted environmental intervention to decrease asthma triggers and improve household safety. We collected environmental data with questionnaire and dust samples and health information with a questionnaire incorporating the American Academy of Pediatrics Children’s Health Survey for Asthma and other instruments at baseline and at follow-up 11 to 12 months later to evaluate the impact of the intervention on the health of the child and family in Lowell, Massachusetts, from September 2009 to January 2012.

Results. The diverse study population of low-income children showed a statistically significant health improvement from baseline to follow-up. The cost of the interventions (not including personnel) was $36 240, whereas the estimated medical savings over a 4-week assessment period was $71 162, resulting in an estimated annual savings of about $821 304.

Conclusions. Low-cost, multicomponent interventions decrease all measures of asthma severity and health care utilization in a diverse population of urban children.
Association of Strong Smoke-Free Laws With Dentists’ Advice to Quit Smoking, 2006–2007
Authors: Gonzalez Mariaelena , Sanders-Jackson Ashley , Glantz Stanton A.
Published: February 2014

Objectives. We examined the association of smoke-free laws with dentists’ advice to quit smoking and referral to a quit line, among smokers who reported visiting the dentist in the past 12 months.

Methods. We used the 2006 to 2007 Tobacco Use Supplement of the Current Population Survey merged with the American Nonsmokers' Rights Foundation Local Ordinance Database of smoke-free laws. The dependent variables were advice from a dentist to quit smoking and referral to a quit line, and the independent variable of interest was 100% smoke-free law coverage. We controlled for respondent demographics and an index of state-level smoking ban attitudes (included to ensure that the effect detected was not the result of social attitudes).

Results. Smoke-free law coverage was associated with dental advice to quit smoking (odds ratio [OR] = 1.27; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01, 1.59; P = .041), but not with referral to a quit line (OR = 1.33; 95% CI = 0.79, 2.25; P = .283).

Conclusions. Interventions with dentists are needed to increase referrals to quit lines and other smoking cessation efforts.
Enhancement of Health Department Capacity for Health Care–Associated Infection Prevention Through Recovery Act–Funded Programs
Authors: Ellingson Katherine , McCormick Kelly , Sinkowitz-Cochran Ronda , Woodard Tiffanee , Jernigan John , Srinivasan Arjun , Rask Kimberly ,   the State-Based Healthcare-Associated Infection Prevention Public Health Advisors/Analysts
Published: February 2014

Objectives. We evaluated capacity built and outcomes achieved from September 1, 2009, to December 31, 2011, by 51 health departments (HDs) funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for health care–associated infection (HAI) program development.

Methods. We defined capacity for HAI prevention at HDs by 25 indicators of activity in 6 categories: staffing, partnerships, training, technical assistance, surveillance, and prevention. We assessed state-level infection outcomes by modeling quarterly standardized infection ratios (SIRs) for device- and procedure-associated infections with longitudinal regression models.

Results. With ARRA funds, HDs created 188 HAI-related positions and supported 1042 training programs, 53 surveillance data validation projects, and 60 prevention collaboratives. All states demonstrated significant declines in central line–associated bloodstream and surgical site infections. States that implemented ARRA-funded catheter-associated urinary tract infection prevention collaboratives showed significantly greater SIR reductions over time than states that did not (P = .02).

Conclusions. ARRA–HAI funding substantially improved HD capacity to reduce HAIs not targeted by other national efforts, suggesting that HDs can play a critical role in addressing emerging or neglected HAIs.
Prescription Medication Sharing: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Beyene Kebede A. , Sheridan Janie , Aspden Trudi
Published: February 2014

We reviewed the literature on nonrecreational prescription medication sharing. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and a customized multidatabase for all relevant articles published through 2013; our final sample comprised 19 studies from 9 countries with 36 182 participants, ranging in age from children to older adults, and published between 1990 and 2011.

The prevalence rate for borrowing someone’s prescription medication was 5% to 51.9% and for lending prescription medication to someone else was 6% to 22.9%. A wide range of medicines were shared between family members, friends, and acquaintances.

Sharing of many classes of prescription medication was common. Further research should explore why people share, how they decide to lend or borrow, whether they are aware of the risks, and how they assess the relevance of those risks.
Local Health Departments as Essential Community Providers for Health Benefits Exchange Plans
Authors: Costich Julia F.
Published: February 2014

The Affordable Care Act requires health plans’ networks to include “essential community providers” (ECPs). Local health departments (LHDs) can be ECPs, typically for tuberculosis and sexually transmitted disease–related services or family planning. An ECP status may be controversial if it jeopardizes core population health services or competes with community partners. Some LHDs already bill for ECP services, but independent billing functions could exceed projected revenue. Thus, LHDs may wish to investigate contractual arrangements as alternatives to billing multiple issuers.
Effectiveness of the Cigarette Ignition Propensity Standard in Preventing Unintentional Residential Fires in Massachusetts
Authors: Alpert Hillel R. , Christiani David C. , Orav E. John , Dockery Douglas W. , Connolly Gregory N.
Published: February 2014

Objectives. We evaluated the Massachusetts Fire Safe Cigarette Law’s (FSCL’s) effectiveness in preventing residential fires.

Methods. We examined unintentional residential fires reported to the Massachusetts Fire Incident Reporting System from 2004 to 2010. We analyzed FSCL effect on the likelihood of cigarette- versus noncigarette-caused fires and effect modification by fire scenario factors by using an interrupted time series regression model. We analyzed the effect of FSCL on monthly fire rates with Poisson regression.

Results. Cigarettes caused 1629 unintentional residential fires during the study period. The FSCL was associated with a 28% (95% confidence interval = 12%, 41%) reduction in the odds of cigarette- versus noncigarette-caused fires, although not in analyses restricted to casualty fires, with smaller sample size. The largest reductions were among fires in which human factors were involved; that were first ignited on furniture, bedding, or soft goods; that occurred in living areas; or that occurred in the summer or winter.

Conclusions. The FSCL appears to have decreased the likelihood of cigarette-caused residential fires, particularly in scenarios for which the ignition propensity standard was developed. Current standards should be adopted, and the need for strengthening should be considered.
Trends in Body Mass Index and Prevalence of Extreme High Obesity Among Pennsylvania Children and Adolescents, 2007–2011: Promising but Cautionary
Authors: Lohrmann David , YoussefAgha Ahmed , Jayawardene Wasantha
Published: February 2014

Objectives. We determined current trends and patterns in overweight, obesity, and extreme high obesity among Pennsylvania pre-kindergarten (pre-K) to 12th grade students and simulated future trends.

Methods. We analyzed body mass index (BMI) of pre-K to 12th grade students from 43 of 67 Pennsylvania counties in 2007 to 2011 to determine trends and to discern transition patterns among BMI status categories for 2009 to 2011. Vinsem simulation, confirmed by Markov chain modeling, generated future prevalence trends.

Results. Combined rates of overweight, obesity, and extreme high obesity decreased among secondary school students across the 5 years, and among elementary students, first increased and then markedly decreased. BMI status remained constant for approximately 80% of normal and extreme high obese students, but both decreased and increased among students who initially were overweight and obese; the increase in BMI remained significant.

Conclusions. Overall trends in child and adolescent BMI status seemed positive. BMI transition patterns indicated that although overweight and obesity prevalence leveled off, extreme high obesity, especially among elementary students, is projected to increase substantially over time. If current transition patterns continue, the prevalence of overweight, obesity, and extreme high obesity among Pennsylvania students in 2031 is projected to be 16.0%, 6.6%, and 23.2%, respectively.
Production and characterization of Al-xNi in situ composites using hot pressing
Authors: Yamanoglu R.
Published: February 2014

In this study, a new metal matrix composite of aluminium was designed with
the addition of nickel alloy particles. To produce in situ intermetallic
formation, aluminium-nickel powder mixtures with different ratios ranging
from 5 to 40 wt% Ni were consolidated at 550?C for 15 minutes under 40 MPa
pressure. The interlayer phase formed during sintering was determined using
X-ray diffraction and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The effect of
nickel and Al-Ni intermetallics on the mechanical properties of the material
was studied. The results demonstrated that the addition of nickel enhanced
the hardness and wear behaviour of aluminium by forming a strong bonding
interface between the aluminium and nickel particles.
Effects of alloying elements on elastic properties of Al by first-principles calculations
Authors: Wang J. , Du Y. , Shang S.L. , Liu Z.K. , Li Y.
Published: February 2014

The effects of alloying elements (Co, Cu, Fe, Ge, Hf, Mg, Mn, Ni, Si, Sr, Ti,
V, Y, Zn, and Zr) on elastic properties of Al have been investigated using
first-principles calculations within the generalized gradient approximation.
A supercell consisting of 31 Al atoms and one solute atom is used. A good
agreement is obtained between calculated and available experimental data.
Lattice parameters of the studied Al alloys are found to be depended on
atomic radii of solute atoms. The elastic properties of polycrystalline
aggregates including bulk modulus (B), shear modulus (G), Young?s modulus
(E), and the B/G ratio are also determined based on the calculated elastic
constants (cij?s). It is found that the bulk modulus of Al alloys decreases
with increasing volume due to the addition of alloying elements and the bulk
modulus is also related to the total molar volume (Vm) and electron density
(nAl31x) with the relationship of nAl31x=1.0594+0.0207?B/Vm. These results
are of relevance to tailor the properties of Al alloys.
The Treatment of Incineration Wastes with a Carbonate Waste Fraction from the Zinc-Lead Industry
Authors: Bień January , Morzyk Bartosz , Wystalska Katarzyna , Celary Piotr , Sobik-Szołtysek Jolanta
Published: February 2014

The article presents the results of plasma vitrification of solid remnants from thermal waste treatment with and without the addition of a carbonate fraction obtained from lead-zinc ore flotation. The substrates used in the research were slags and ashes from medical waste treatment, incineration of municipal waste, sewage sludge as well as hazardous and industrial wastes.

The plasma treatment resulted in acquiring products of different quality depending on the processed substrate. Most of the obtained products were of vitreous and homogenic build. Treatment of remnants from incineration of hazardous and industrial wastes resulted in obtaining heterogeneous and rough surfaced products. A 20% share of the carbonate fraction enabled the obtaining of a vitrified product with a glassy surface and fracture. Hardness of the obtained products was rated in Mohs scale and ranged from 6 to 6,5. Leaching tests showed a decrease in heavy metal concentration in the leachates from vitrificates with the addition of carbonate fraction compared to the ones with it.
Spatial Differentiation of Water Quality Between Reservoirs Under Anthropogenic and Natural Factors Based on Statistical Approach
Authors: Boyacioglu Hülya
Published: February 2014

This study illustrates the benefits of statistical techniques to analyze spatial and temporal variations in water quality. In this scope water quality differentiation caused by anthropogenic and natural factors in the Tahtali and Balçova reservoirs in western Turkey was investigated using discriminant analysis-DA, Mann Whitney U techniques. Effectiveness of pollution prevention measures was analyzed by Mann Kendall and Sen’s Slope estimator methods. The water quality variables were divided into three groups as physical-inorganic, organic and inorganic pollution parameters for the study. Results showed that water quality between reservoirs was differentiated for “physical-inorganic” and “organic pollution” parameters. Degree of influence of water quality by urbanization was higher in the Tahtali reservoir and in general, no trend detection at pollution indicators explained by effective management practices at both sites.
Eco-Friendly Soaking Process Using Tannic Acid as an Alternative Bactericide
Authors: Zengin Arife Candaş Adigüzel , Çolak Selime Menteş , Zengin Gökhan , Kiliç Eylem
Published: February 2014

Eco-friendly leather processes based on the usage of natural products have become a potentially attractive issue for leather industry during the last few decades. Synthetic protective chemicals like bactericides used in most soaking process are known as hazardous substances and cause tannery effluents with high concentrations of Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD). In the present study, the effect of tannic acid on microorganisms, skin, wool and effluent were investigated in order to demonstrate the applicability of tannic acid in soaking process instead of commonly used bactericides. The bacterial load (cfu/ml), COD and Nitrogen Content (N) of the soaking effluents and Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN) content of skins and wools were investigated. Application of 0.5 and 1 wt% tannic acid concentrations was more effective than commercial bactericide, while comparable results were achieved by 0.1 and 0.3 wt% tannic acid. The application of tannic acid for soaking process resulted in lower COD and N values of effluents. The results show that tannic acid has the potential to be an alternative, eco-friendly bactericide for leather industry by reducing the pollution of leather soaking process.
Utilization of Sludge from Mine Water Treatment Plant in The Segment of Thermal Insulation Mortars
Authors: Václavík V. , Daxner J. , Valíček J. , Dombek V. , Dvorský T. , Kušnerová M. , Václavíková B.
Published: February 2014

The results from the experimental research are presented in the abstract. The experimental research involved utilization of the sludge from the mine water treatment plant of Coal Quarry ČSA/Czechoslovak Army/ (hereinafter “ČSA”) and Coal Quarry Jana Švermy (hereinafter “JŠ”) in the segment of thermal insulation mortars. The mine water treatment is described below including chemical and mineralogical sludge composition as the additional component of the binding material in the polyurethane thermal insulation mortars. Furthermore the composition of experimental mixtures of the thermal insulation polyurethane mortar is presented in the work and its physical-mechanical properties. The monitored elements included the strength characteristics, heat conductivity coefficient λ, and water vapour diffusion coefficient μ.
Modified Wallschläger Sequential Extraction as a Tool for Evaluating the Mobility of Mercury
Authors: Flader Anna , Gworek Barbara , Kostrzewa-Szulc Jolanta
Published: February 2014

The presented studies were focused on evaluating the utility of one of sequential extraction methods for evaluating the bioavailability of mercury in soils polluted by this element. Soil samples collected from horizons 0-20 cm and 20-80 cm were subject to analysis of the basic physical and chemical properties of soils. Moreover, the total content of mercury was determined and sequential extraction of mercury was conducted using a modified five-stage Wallschläger method. The analyses show that the studied soils are characterized by a variable mercury content, the highest in the surface soil horizons. Sequential extraction of mercury in the analyzed soils has indicated that the highest percentage content in the total content had mercury linked with sulphides. A high content of mercury linked with organic matter was also noted. The content of bioavailable mercury did not exceed 1.5% of the total content.
Impact of the Salinity Gradient on the Mollusc Fauna in Flooded Mine Subsidences (Karvina, Czech Republic)
Authors: Kašovská Kamila , Pierzchała Łukasz , Sierka Edyta , Stalmachová Barbara
Published: February 2014

This paper presents the impact of salinisation on the aquatic mollusc fauna in flooded mine subsidences in the Karvina region (Czech Republic). The results of the previous research on salinity in flooded mine subsidences show that some of them contain a high content of dissolved inorganic substances (above 1000 mg·l-1). These substances can affect the vegetation and animals occurring in the water and the surrounding area. The phylum of Mollusca was selected as a model group for the fieldwork as it includes species with the proven bioindication potential.

The occurrence of aquatic mollusc species was studied at 10 sites. The sites were selected based on the content of dissolved substances (the salinity gradient from <500 to >1000 mg·l-1. A total of 12 aquatic mollusc species were found, including one species identified as a potential bioindicator of the negative effect of salinisation on aquatic biota.

The analysis showed statistically significant positive correlations between the content of dissolved inorganic substances and the presence of alien species Potamopyrgus antipodarum (J.E. Gray, 1843). The gradient of salinity significantly affects the species composition of the mollusc fauna in flooded mine subsidences and may affect the biodiversity of this group.
Cellular Automaton Modeling of Ductile Iron Density Changes at the Solidification Time
Authors: Burbelko A.A. , Gurgul D. , Królikowski M. , Wróbel M.
Published: February 2014

Formation of the shrinkage defects in ductile iron castings is far more complicated phenomenon than in other casting alloys. In the paper one of the aspects of formation of porosity in this alloy was considered - changes in cast iron's density during crystallization caused by varying temperature, phase fractions and phase's composition. Computer model, using cellular automata method, for determination of changes in density of ductile iron during crystallization was applied. Simulation of solidification was conducted for 5 Fe-C binarie alloys with ES from 0.9 to 1.1 for the estimation of the eutectic saturation influence on the ductile iron shrinkage and expansion. As a result of calculations it was stated that after undercooling ductile iron below liquidus temperature volumetric changes proceed in three stages: preeutectic shrinkage (minimal in eutectic cast iron), eutectic expansion (maximum value equals to about 1.5% for ES = 1.05) and last shrinkage (about 0.4% in all alloys regardless of ES).
The Control of Solidification Kinetics of the Vacuum-cast Thin-wall Nickel-based Superalloys by Changing the Geometrical Characteristics of the Ceramic Mold
Authors: Cygan R. , Szeliga D. , Rokicki P. , Sieniawski J. , Suchy J.S.
Published: February 2014

This paper provides an analysis of experimental research and results of investment casting process. Temperature field in a ceramic mold is one of the problems during numerical simulation. Reducing the costs of production in precision casting involves the reduction of scraps, which is one of the fundamental problems of the foundry industry. Reducing these costs is associated with optimization of precision casting technology of aircraft engines critical parts, including control of the solidification front in thin-walled castings of nickel super alloys cast in a vacuum. It is achieved by changing the geometrical characteristics of the ceramic mold. The results of the tests were used to optimize the industrial production of aircraft components in Precision Foundry of WSK Rzeszów. Temperature distribution gained in the conducted tests allowed verification and optimization of computer simulations.
Change of Aluminum Alloys Structure by Sono-Solidification
Authors: Gnapowski S. , Tsunekawa Y. , Okumiya M. , Lenik K.
Published: February 2014

This experiment utilized five Aluminum alloys with silicon content percentages of 7, 10, 12.6, 14.5 and 17(wt)%. Ultrasonic vibration was applied to improve the quality of aluminum alloys. Sono-solidification, in which ultrasound vibrations are applied to molten metal during its solidification, is expected to cause improved mechanical properties due to grain refinement. Observed by microstructure photographs was that grains became smaller and their shapes more regular. Using ultra sound solidification α Al appeared during ultrasound treatment the eutectic solidification time was longest around 10% compared with same condition experiment without ultrasound treatment.
Examination and Elimination of Defects in Cone Casting Made of Ductile Cast Iron
Authors: Guzik E. , Łagowski M. , Nowak-Dudek A. , Niedzielski B.
Published: February 2014

In the scope of existing cooperation with the Foundry of Cast Iron ZM “WSK Rzeszów” Ltd. there was carried out research work of microstructure and mechanical properties in the walls of a cone casting made of ductile cast iron. The particular attention was being put to the search of the potential brittle phases which have deleterious effect on ductility and dynamic properties of highly strained use of the casting prone to the potential risk of cracks during the highly strained use.
Effect of high-manganese cast steel strain hardening on the abrasion wear resistance in a mixture of SiC and water
Authors: Kalandyk B. , Zapała R.
Published: February 2014

The study attempts to determine the impact of the high-manganese cast steel strain hardening on its abrasion wear resistance in a mixture of SiC and water prepared in accordance with ASTM G75. For tests, the high-manganese cast steel containing 10.7, 17.9 and 20.02% Mn was selected. The results of microstructure examinations and abrasion wear resistance tests carried out on the material in non-hardened condition and after strain hardening with a force of 539.55kN were disclosed. Additionally, the surface of samples after a 16-hour cycle of abrasion tests was examined. Moreover, based on the obtained results, the effect of different contents of Mn in cast steel was studied, mainly in terms of its impact on the abrasion wear resistance. The results obtained on the tested materials were compared with the results obtained on the low-alloyed abrasion wear-resistant cast steel L35GSM.
The Framework of Agent-based Negotiation Platform for Foundries Cooperating in Supply Chain
Authors: Kluska-Nawarecka S. , Regulski K. , Rojek G.
Published: February 2014

This paper concerns the domain of contracts in the metallurgy and heavy industry, that are the form of deals making between cooperating companies being suppliers and consumers of some goods. From a general point of view cooperation enables for small companies to realize orders that are too large for an individual producer, but contract negotiations, further scheduling and support of production are usually too difficult and complicated. This paper presents a proposition of an information system, that should make cooperation between companies more available. Such system should be distributed among cooperating producers, what is the reason for choosing of the agent technology as the main software paradigm. This system should also support interchanging of information in many norms and technical standards, what results in the use of ontology concerning metallurgy and heavy industry.
X-Ray Tomography Investigation of Fe-rich Intermetallics in AlSi Alloys
Authors: Mikołajczak P. , Ratke L.
Published: February 2014

Iron exists as a common impurity element in AlSi foundry alloys. The main consequence of the presence or adding of iron to AlSi alloys is the formation Fe-rich intermetallics with especially deleterious β-Al5FeSi. This work aims to identify the role of fluid flow on the microstructure and intermetallics in Al-9 wt.% Si-0.2/0.5/1.0 wt.% Fe alloys directionally solidified under defined thermal and fluid flow conditions and extensively uses 3D x-ray tomography to get a better insight into their morphology and formation. The results have revealed the growth of larger and more dense β-Al5FeSi intermetallics in the specimen centre as an effect of forced flow. The reconstructions confirmed that the course of number density at the specimen cross section increases from the specimen edge to its centre.
Technological Aspects of Low-Alloyed Cast Steel Massive Casting Manufacturing
Authors: Szajnara J. , Studnicki A. , Kondracki M. , Głownia J.
Published: February 2014

In the paper authors have undertaken the attempt of explaining the causes of cracks net occurrence on a massive 3-ton cast steel casting with complex geometry. Material used for casting manufacturing was the low-alloyed cast steel with increased wear resistance modified with vanadium and titanium. The studies included the primary and secondary crystallization analysis with use of TDA and the qualitative and quantitative analysis of non-metallic inclusions.
Kinetics of Hardening and Drying of Ceramic Moulds with the New Generation Binder – Colloidal Silica
Authors: Zych J. , Kolczyk J.
Published: February 2014

The influence of selected factors on drying ceramic moulds applied in the investment casting technology was determined by the gravimetric method. Moulds produced of ceramic sands based on the new generation binders - colloidal silica, were investigated. It was found that each successive layer, of a similar thickness, is drying longer than the previous one. The drying time of layers forming closed spaces is several times longer as compared with drying open surfaces (external). Grain size of matrix used for moulds sprinkling has none significant influence on drying rates.
Fler Huvuden Väntas Falla
Authors: Walatek Ewa
Published: February 2014

The purpose of this study is to give a detailed analysis of the semantics of the Swedish body part term huvud (head). The study covers all types of linguistic units including the component huvud (idioms, compounds), both conventionalized everyday expressions and occasional uses. The theoretical basis of the analysis is the cognitive theory of metaphor and metonymy formulated by Lakoff and Johnson (1980).

A large part of semantic extensions of huvud are associated with the head as the upper part of the human body, containing the brain and sense organs. These features lead to metonymies: HEAD FOR THINKING ABILITY AND PERCEPTION and metaphor HEAD IS POSITION OF COMMAND. The head itself is conceptualized metaphorically as a CONTAINER in which thoughts, memories, emotional and physical states are stored.
THE UNFOLDING OF TRUTH AND SELF-REPRESENTATION WITHIN THE CRACKED MIRROR IN SHAKESPEARE’S RICHARD II
Authors: Ekmekçioğlu Neslihan
Published: February 2014

Shakespeare’s Richard II deals with the controversy between the divine and the mortal aspects of the King. According to Kantorowicz’s The King’s Two Bodies, the King had two bodies: a Body Natural and a Body Politic. In the deposition scene of the play, Richard exploits the divine authority by undoing himself as if in a sacramental ceremony and asks for a mirror in order to see whether the change in his kingly nature has affected his face. My paper will deal with the unfolding of unendurable truth and the self-representation of Richard II in the duality of his image within the cracked mirror.
THE SEA AND WOMEN IN SHAKESPEARE’S FIRST TETRALOGY
Authors: Cheang Wai Fong
Published: February 2014

The garden is a powerful imagery in Shakespeare history plays, yet the sea also plays an important role. By discussing episodes and metaphors related to the sea in Shakespeare’s first tetralogy, this paper aims to demonstrate Shakespeare’s macro-spatial perspective of England as an island, whose history is influenced by elements on and across the sea. The paper also examines Shakespeare’s dramatization of women’s interconnections with the sea. It attempts to contextualize Shakespeare’s dramatic representation of the sea and of women within English Renaissance maritime culture.
“SYCORAX ON STAGE”: THE UNVOICED SHAKESPEAREAN FEMALE OTHER FINALLY SPEAKS IN SUNITI NAMJOSHI’S POETRY
Authors: Tóth Gabriella
Published: February 2014

The witch has always been the representation of an unspeakable absence. Sycorax embodies all silenced African women, experiencing double patriarchy (a term used by Omofolabo Ajayi-Soyinka). Associated with the margins, she represented the barbarian Other to European culture. Sycorax decolonizes the male-dominated world of Prospero: from absence, she is turned into presence, as she constructs her subjective narrative
THE MOTHER-DAUGHTER RELATIONSHIP IN MANJU KAPUR’S DIFFICULT DAUGHTERS
Authors: Bălănescu Olivia
Published: February 2014

This paper attempts an analysis of Manju Kapur’s Difficult Daughters from the perspective of mother-daughter relationships. Starting from the assumption that the mother plays a crucial part in socialising children into traditional gender roles, I will focus on family relations and women’s quest for identity in an Indian society set against the backdrop of Partition.
GENDER AND POLITICS AS THE DOMINANT FACTORS IN THE PERCEPTIONS OF MULTICULTURAL EDUCATION
Authors: Izgarjan Aleksandra , Markov Slobodanka , Prodanović-Stankić Diana
Published: February 2014

The paper presents an analysis of research focusing on the attitudes of students at the University of Novi Sad, Serbia toward multiculturalism and on the intersection of the gender aspect and students’ political affiliation. The results show that both gender and political affiliation shape student attitudes since more female students and those who identify themselves with the democratic block support multicultural education in comparison with those who identify themselves with the nationalist block.
Changes in body composition and physical fitness of 7-year-old girls after completing a 12-month artistic gymnastics training program
Authors: Boraczyński Tomasz , Boraczyński Michał , Boraczyńska Sandra , Michels Anna
Published: February 2014

Purpose

The aim of the study was to evaluate changes in body composition and physical fitness in girls aged 7 years before and after a 12-month macrocycle artistic gymnastics training program.

Methods

The study involved 32 girls attending the first grade at a sports-focused primary school with a specialization in artistic gymnastics. The study was conducted at the beginning and after an annual training cycle. Measures of body height, body mass, and body composition were performed. Physical fitness was assessed using the Eurofit physical fitness test battery.

Results

The results showed average body composition and a high initial level and later dynamic increase in the physical fitness of the participants.

Conclusions

The dynamic increase in the results of six Eurofit tests and the overall high level of results in seven of the tests after completing the annual training cycle is evidence of the high effectiveness of the applied training program in improving the physical fitness of the tested girls. The reasons for the lack of significant progress in one of the tests measuring agility (10 × 5 m shuttle run) are unclear, requiring more in-depth analysis of the training process used by trainers with focus on the applied methods, means, and training load volumes. The Eurofit test battery proved to be a precise tool to assess changes in the physical fitness of the tested girls after completing the annual training cycle and is therefore worth recommending at early training stage in gymnastics. The results provide useful information in optimizing the training loads of artistic gymnasts at the initial training stage.
Habitual physical activity patterns of inner-city children
Authors: Harmon Jennifer , Brusseau Timothy A. , Collier Douglas , Lenz Elizabeth
Published: February 2014

Purpose

Understanding the physical activity patterns of youth is an essential step in addressing the obesity epidemic and, ultimately, developing programs that reverse this trend. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the habitual physical activity patterns of Hispanic and African-American children living in a northeastern USA urban environment.

Methods

Participants included 39 inner-city children (10.5 ± 0.61 years old; 78% African American, 14% Hispanic; 85% free/reduced lunch; 20.3 ± 4.3 BMI with 45% overweight/obese). Children wore a pedometer for seven consecutive days. Means and standard deviations were calculated and Student’s t test was utilized to examine difference across gender and day of the week.

Results

Children averaged 9535 ± 2594 steps/day. The weekday step count mean was 10090 ± 2939 and the weekend step count was 7557 ± 4337, = 2533. Students were significantly more active during the week; t(16) = 2.38, p = 0.03. Children averaged 10610 ± 2842 steps on physical education weekdays and 8338 ± 2802 steps on non-physical education weekdays. Children were significantly more active on days with physical education classes; t(30) = 4.7, p = 0.00,Δ = 2272.

Conclusions

Very few children in the current sample met daily step recommendations. Our results support previous research that suggests that the ‘suburban built’ environment is more conducive to promoting physical activity than the inner city. Our sample was less active than those in the majority of other studies exploring physical activity in primary school-aged children. Our findings (compared with previous research) found reduced physical activity among African-American children, especially girls.
Preschool attendance as a factor in the motor skill development of children
Authors: Rokicka-Hebel Magdalena
Published: February 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the motor skills of children who had already attended one year of preschool or had just begun their education.

Methods

A total of 286 five- and six-year-old children were recruited from different preschools (eight preschools and three primary school preschool programs) in Gdańsk, Poland. A test battery was designed based on the children’s preschool physical education curriculum and the motor skills that should be acquired at this age. The analyzed motor tasks included: 1) walking on a balance bench, 2) crawling on an inclined balance bench, 3) running then jumping over an obstacle with one leg, 4) catching and throwing a ball over an obstacle, 5) throwing a ball against the wall and catching it, 6) climbing on a gymnastic ladder, 7) jumproping. The children were tested twice in test-retest conditions, at the beginning and end of the school year.

Results

The children showed the lowest level of skills in throwing, catching, and bouncing a ball against the wall and jumproping.

Conclusions

No significant differences were identified as to children’s physical abilities or between the 5-year-olds and 6-year-olds either beginning or continuing preschool.
Analysis of kinematic parameters of gait in Brazilian children using a low-cost procedure
Authors: Chagas Daniel das Virgens , Leporace Gustavo , Praxedes Jomilto , Carvalho Igor , Pinto Sérgio , Batista Luiz Alberto
Published: February 2014

Purpose

The aim of the study was to describe the gait kinematic behaviour of healthy Brazilian children aged 6-11 years old and examine the influence of age and gender on the analysed kinematic characteristics.

Methods

A descriptive study that investigated the gait of 119 children (60 boys and 59 girls) aged 6-11 years was conducted. Data were stratified according to age (6-7 years, 8-9 years, 10-11 years) and gender and its impact over spatiotemporal gait parameters was assessed. An inexpensive yet satisfactorily valid and objective motion capture system was employed to compute gait parameters.

Results

Non-normalised and normalised averages of stride length, step length, cadence and velocity from 119 participants were 1.23 ± 0.17 m and 1.8 ± 0.2, 0.63 ± 0.11 m and 0.9 ± 0.1 m, 117.9 ± 11.4 steps/min and 311.9 ± 23.9 steps/min, 72.5 ± 11.1 m/min and 27.9 ± 4.5 m/min, respectively. Stance and swing means (%GC) were 58.1% ± 3.3% and 41.9% ± 3.3%, respectively. Step and stride length increased with advancing age, while cadence decreased. A significant difference (p = 0.005) was found between Group 2 (8-9 years) and 3 (10-11 years) for normalised velocity. No significant differences between groups were found for other non-dimensional variables. Comparisons between boys and girls showed no differences (p > 0.05) in any spatiotemporal gait parameters.

Conclusions

The gait kinematic behaviour of 119 Brazilian children was described using a low-cost instrumented gait analysis system. Gender was not a significant modifying factor for gait among the examined children. Our findings suggest a partially immature gait kinematic pattern in children aged between 6 to 11 years. Additional studies are needed to examine whether the differences between our results and those reported in the literature are due to issues of internal or external validity.
Acute neuromuscular responses to a resistance exercise session performed using the DeLorme and Oxford techniques
Authors: Pereira Rafael , Mendel Max Miller Alves , Schettino Ludmila , Machado Marco , Augusto-Silva Pierre
Published: February 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine and compare acute neuromuscular behavior during a resistance exercise session (RES) conducted with the DeLorme and Oxford techniques.

Methods

Seven healthy and trained participants volunteered to carry out two RES, one week apart, of unilateral elbow flexion. Each session was conducted with the DeLorme or Oxford techniques in a counterbalanced order. Electromyographic (EMG) data were recorded from the biceps brachii (BB) and triceps brachii (TRIC) during a maximal isometric voluntary contraction. Normalized EMG amplitude from BB and TRIC and the co-contraction ratio (CCR) during the concentric and eccentric phases were calculated.

Results

The EMG amplitude from BB and TRIC as well as the CCR of both the concentric and eccentric phases were similar in both techniques. Additionally, normalized EMG amplitude from BB was higher during the concentric phase when compared with the eccentric phase for both techniques, supporting the hypotheses of distinct neural control for concentric and eccentric phases of movement. The DeLorme and Oxford techniques induced similar acute neuromuscular responses during the RES.

Conclusions

Our results may support previous findings on similar strength gains after resistance training performed with both analyzed techniques.
Relationships between anaerobic performance, field tests, and functional level of elite female wheelchair basketball athletes
Authors: Molik Bartosz , Laskin James J. , Kosmol Andrzej , Marszałek Jolanta , Morgulec-Adamowicz Natalia , Frick Tim
Published: February 2014

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the associations between anaerobic performance (AnP), applicable field tests, and the functional classification levels in female wheelchair basketball athletes.

Methods

Female wheelchair basketball athletes (N = 23; Category A, n = 9; Category B, n = 14) from the Canadian national team were evaluated using field tests and the 30-second Wingate Anaerobic Test. Measures of peak power output (PP), time to achieve peak power (tPP), mean power output (MP), and a fatigue index (FI) were used to assess AnP. A test battery evaluating seven wheelchair basketball skills was applied. Student’s t test was used to identify differences between the two main functional categories (A and B). Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient and Pearson’s product-moment correlation coefficient were calculated to determine the significance of all relationships between the parameters of AnP, the results of the field tests, and the eight functional classification levels of the athletes (1.0-4.5 pts.).

Results

In all analyzed parameters, except for the field test measuring shooting skills, the results of AnP were significantly higher for Category B players. Significant relationships were observed between athletes’ classification level and AnP and the field tests except for tPP, the 5 m sprint, and the shooting test. The strongest association was observed for MP and PP, MP and FI, PP and FI (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Strong associations were found between the functional classification level and AnP of the female wheelchair basketball athletes. The strongest correlation was confirmed between MP, PP, and the field test measuring the two-handed chest pass, suggesting that this test can be used to indirectly assess the anaerobic performance of female wheelchair basketball athletes.
Assessment of Roadside Particulate Emission Mitigation Possibil
Authors: Slisane Dzintra , Blumberga Dagnija
Published: February 2014

The improvement of air quality is now an issue for all developed countries. In the European Union transportation is the main source of NOx pollution and the second most significant PM10 and PM2, 5 emission sources. The focus of the research is transportation PM10 emissions. The paper introduces a model of system dynamics for analysis of road transportation PM10 emissions. The developed model is then used to compare PM10 emissions in 4 cases, one of which is the baseline, while in the other 3 a variety of road transport emission reduction methods are implemented. The simulation results have shown that the highest daily PM10 emission reductions can be achieved by combining technological and administrative methods. Administrative methods (rush-hour driving tax and heavy vehicle traffic restrictions) turned out to be the most effective.