bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of malocclusion on the quality of life of Saudi children
Authors: Dawoodbhoy Irfan , Delgado-Angulo Elsa K. , Bernabé Eduardo 
Published: April 2013

ABSTRACT

Objective:
To assess the relationship between malocclusion severity and quality of life in children.

Materials and Method:
Two hundred and seventy-eight children aged 11 to 14 years were recruited voluntarily from the Dental and Maxillofacial Centre of the Almana General Hospital in Alkhobar, Saudi Arabia. The children were asked to fill out the Arabic version of the Child Perception Questionnaire for 11- to 14-year-old children (CPQ11–14) and were then clinically examined to determine the severity of their malocclusion using the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI). Multivariate analysis of variance was used to compare the four domains and the total CPQ11–14 scores between the four DAI severity groups.

Results:
Significant differences were found between DAI severity groups for the four domains and the total CPQ11–14 scores. Although children with very severe (handicapping) malocclusion had significantly higher domain and total CPQ11–14 scores than all the other groups (differences of up to 6 and 22 units, respectively, compared to children with no/minor malocclusion), there were no differences between those with no/minor, definite, and severe malocclusion.

Conclusion:
These findings suggest that only very severe malocclusion had an impact on the quality of life of the participants. Orthodontists should focus not only on clinical measures of malocclusion but should also consider the impact of severe malocclusion on patients' quality of life.
Blood 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D Levels and Incident Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Song Yiqing , Wang Lu , Pittas Anastassios G. , Del Gobbo Liana C. , Zhang Cuilin , Manson JoAnn E. , Hu Frank B. 
Published: April 2013

OBJECTIVE
To quantitatively assess the strength and shape of the association between blood 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D] levels and incident risk of type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
A systematic search of the MEDLINE and Embase databases and a hand search of references from original reports were conducted up to 31 October 2012. Prospective observational studies that assessed the association between blood levels of 25(OH)D and risk of incident type 2 diabetes were included for meta-analysis. DerSimonian and Laird’s random-effects model was used. A quadratic spline regression analysis was used to examine the shape of the association with a generalized least-squares trend test performed for the dose-response relation.

RESULTS
A total of 21 prospective studies involving 76,220 participants and 4,996 incident type 2 diabetes cases were included for meta-analysis. Comparing the highest to the lowest category of 25(OH)D levels, the summary relative risk for type 2 diabetes was 0.62 (95% CI 0.54–0.70). A spline regression model showed that higher 25(OH)D levels were monotonically associated with a lower diabetes risk. This inverse association did not differ by sex, duration of follow-up, study sample size, diabetes diagnostic criteria, or 25(OH)D assay method. A linear trend analysis showed that each 10 nmol/L increment in 25(OH)D levels was associated with a 4% lower risk of type 2 diabetes (95% CI 3–6; P for linear trend &lt; 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS
Our meta-analysis showed an inverse and significant association between circulating 25(OH)D levels and risk of type 2 diabetes across a broad range of blood 25(OH)D levels in diverse populations.
Orphanet – Information, Education and Expert Centres for Rare Diseases / Orphanet – informovanosť, vzdelávanie a špecializované centrá starostlivosti o pacientov so ZCH
Authors: Kovács L. , Hegyi E. , Nagyová G. 
Published: April 2013

The paper briefly describes the role of Orphanet as an informational and educational source for rare diseases. Most attention is given to the Centres of Expertise and European Reference Networks. The authors suggest an easy procedure how to get the basic data about the readiness of the clinics to be recognised for Centres of Expertise at the national level. EUCERD recommendations on quality criteria for centres of expertise are introduced. The coordinators of the potential Centres of Expertise should be contacted and asked to fill in the questionnaire designed to check whether the centre matches the EUCERD recommendations or not. In order for the process to be transparent, the selection criteria of expert resources are listed on national website (www.orphanet.sk).
The analysis of the questionnaires has to be carried out at the national level, to map the basic data about the current status. One questionnaire per department or clinic shall be filled in order to allow the evaluation. Clinics will be divided in two groups the ones which achieved the threshold and could be recognised as Centres of Expertise at the National level and the ones which need to be further monitored to reach the threshold.
Analytical Evaluation of the Novel Helena V8 Capillary Electrophoresis System
Authors: Lippi Giuseppe , Battistelli Luisita , Vernocchi Arialdo , Mussap Michele 
Published: April 2013

Summary
Background: Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is used for the screening of protein abnormalities in serum and other biological fluids. Since the Helena V8 CE system has been recently commercialized, the aim of this study was to assess its analytical performance under routine laboratory conditions.
Methods: The evaluation of Helena V8 (Medical Systems S.p.A., Genova, Italy) for protein fractions (i.e., albumin, alpha-1, alpha-2, beta-1, beta-2, gamma, albumin/globulin ratio [A/G]) and monoclonal component (MC) quantification included imprecision studies, linearity, and comparison with Sebia Capillarys (Sebia, Evry Cedex, France), which was considered the reference analyzer.
Results: The imprecision of Helena V8 on all parameters was comprised between 0.8% and 15.2%; the linearity was excellent up to an MC value of 14.5% (r=1.00). The comparison studies showed excellent Spearman’s correlations with Sebia Capillarys, with coefficients comprised between 0.84 and 0.99 (all p<0.001). The mean bias of Helena V8 versus Sebia Capillarys was -0.02% for G/A, -0.2% for albumin, 2.1% for alpha-1, 0.1% for alpha-2, 0.3% for beta-1, -0.2% for beta-2, -2.2% for gamma and 1 g/L for MC.
Conclusions: The results of this evaluation attest that Helena V8 is a suitable alternative for routine separation and quantification of protein fractions and monoclonal component.
High Temperature Brittleness of Cast Alloys / Kruchosc Wysokotemperaturowa Stopów Odlewniczych
Authors: Telejko I. , Adrian H. , Guzik B. 
Published: April 2013

Over-all mechanical properties of alloys are extremely low at the last stage of solidification where alloy exists at brittle temperature range (BTR). When the solidification process is completed a sudden and marked change in strength and ductility of metal is observed. It means that as long as liquid phase is present, metal will fail in a brittle manner. There are known different theories of brittleness of alloys in existence of liquid phase. The idea involved by authors of the paper is as follows: three major factors caused by presence of liquid may be taken into account:
- decreasing the energy needed for crack nucleation,
- increasing atomic diffusional flux out of the crack tip,
- creating a path for abnormally quick diffusion of atoms from the crack tip.
Numerical Analysis of Influence of the Martensite Volume Fraction on Dp Steels Behavior During Plastic Deformation / Analiza Numeryczna Wpływu Ułamka Objetosci Martenzytu Na Zachowanie Stali Dp Podczas Odkształcenia Plastycznego
Authors: Perzynski K. , Madej Ł. 
Published: April 2013

Development of a comprehensive fracture model, which takes into account crack initiation and propagation behavior at the microscale level in the Dual Phase (DP) steels is presented in the present paper.
At this stage of the research Authors proposed a numerical model, which takes into account ductile crack initiation and propagation through the ferrite phase. Developed model is based on digital material representation (DMR) of DP microstructure, which takes opportunity for modeling crack phenomena in an explicit manner. Proposed model of ductile crack behavior in the ferritic phase is based on the Johnson-Cook model. Particular attention is put on investigation of influence of martensite volume fraction in microstructure on failure behavior. Obtained results for two significantly different martensite volume fractions in the investigated microstructure are presented in this work
The Influence of a Specific Tourist and Sightseeing Program on Region Related Knowledge
Authors: Wojciechowski Krzysztof H. , Bochenek Marcin , Rafalska Beata 
Published: April 2013

Abstract

Introduction. Participation in properly organized tourism events based the tourist potential of the region, becomes a creative experience, generating creative attitude, satisfying a number of needs and aspirations [2]. Tourism has the potential to contribute to increased effectiveness of school education. It can affect attitudes and develop appropriate habits in terms of physical activity. However, it must be accompanied by appropriate offer of activities, which is likely to generate a desirable behaviour. The purpose of this paper is to determine the influence of a specific tourism program on region related knowledge on the part of male and female students. Material and methods. The research conducted by way of pedagogical experiment utilizing the technique of parallel groups forms merely a small part of the entire research program carried out at the Department of Tourism of the Faculty of Physical Education and Sport in Bia³a Podlaska. The research was carried out in two stages - 2002-2003 and 2009-2010 and involved a total group of 272 subjects. Results and conclusions. Based on the obtained results it can be concluded that the proposed specific tourism program does advance the level of region related knowledge, and its impact is greater than the implementation of tasks resulting from the educational process of the contemporary school.
Changes in Somatic Parameters and Dynamic Balance in Female Rhythmic Gymnasts Over a Space of Two Years
Authors: Poliszczuk Tatiana , Broda Daria , Poliszczuk Dmytro 
Published: April 2013

Abstract

Introduction. Body build and the ability to maintain balance play an important role in the development and improvement of specialised motor habits and complex technical elements necessary to achieve significant sporting results in rhythmic gymnastics. The aim of this study was to determine changes in the level of ability to maintain dynamic balance and in the construction of somatic young female rhythmic gymnasts during a period of two year training. Material and methods. The research material consisted of 13 girls. When the first measurements were taken gymnasts were aged 7 - 12 years. In the study we utilised posturography and the Heath-Carter Anthropometric Somatotype Method. The analysis of the study showed that there were statistically significant differences (p <0.05) in the values of the dynamic balance indicators of the gymnasts' bodies in all three consecutive measurements over a course of years. Results and conclusions. It was noted that as the young gymnasts progressed in their training, their ability to maintain dynamic balanced increased. Based on the characteristics of the model, we developed an exemplary set of dynamic balance of rhythmic gymnasts. The somatotype of the tested athletes surveyed had been changing in the direction of increase in the proportion of components of endomorphy and mesomorphy. The balance ability of rhythmic gymnasts stabilised during their puberty associated with changes in body proportions ratio i.e.: height, weight and somatotype. The results and conclusions drawn can be an important part of selection and choice and can be used to control the dynamic balance in rhythmic gymnastics.
Innovative Modeling Method in Technical Training of High Jumpers
Authors: Krivetskiy Ilya Y. , Popov Grigoriy I. 
Published: April 2013

Abstract

Introduction. This essay introduces an innovative high jump technique modeling method that uses a cascaded fuzzy neural network. An interactive system for the prediction of the success of a high jump has been designed based on this method and it allows the creation of an individual model for highly skilled athletes to control the jumper's technical training. Material and methods. The research material included a video recording of 92 high jumps and analysis by 48 kinematic characteristics. The result allowed the fine tuning of the cascaded fuzzy neural network model in order to analyse successful and failed jumps. Results and conclusions. We have developed the interactive system based on the analysis of kinematic characteristics of the high jump and this allows individual performance models to be tailored for elite athletes. With the help of this instrument, which takes into account the individual biomechanical features of an athlete's jumping style, we can analyze all stages of a jump in detail, improve the technique through the targeted correction of specific motions and achieve the optimal combination of kinematic values for the best possible result.
The State of Development of Equestrian Tourism in the Lublin Region in the Context of Environmental Conditions
Authors: Brzezińska-Wójcik Teresa , Baranowska Monika 
Published: April 2013

Abstract

Introduction. In recent years spending free time in the Lublin Region has been more frequently related to equestrian tourism based on the infrastructure of the existing centres. Papers published so far focus mainly on a detailed description of features of horses used for equestrian tourism. Few papers have analysed offers and issues related to the promotion of this form of tourism. There is no paper discussing the spatial distribution of equestrian tourism centres, or analysing their offer at the regional scale. In response to this, a study was undertaken with special consideration of the features of the natural environment. Material and methods. In the period from October 2010 to April 2011, secondary information (statistics, registers, scientific papers) was analysed and primary material (field inventory, diagnostic interviews and an opinion poll) on the state of equestrian tourism in the Lublin Region was collected. Results. The analysis of the spatial distribution of 61 equestrian tourism centres subject to the inventory reveals that the highest number of centres function in the Zamooeæ and Biała Podlaska poviats. The comparison of offers in the scope of equestrian tourism in the Lublin Region shows that the basic offer of the region includes four kinds of services: horse riding, sleigh riding, chaise riding and horse riding courses. The highest number of horse treks is offered by centres in the Biała Podlaska poviat. Conclusions. In view of the data obtained, an asset in the scope of the development of equestrian tourism is the structure of offers directed at tourists and the infrastructure that already exists. Moreover, the development of this form of tourism is favoured by the features of the natural environment; the majority of trails and centres are located in environmentally valuable areas. Particularly the landscape, the filtrating-detoxicating properties of plant assemblages, their bioclimate and aesthetic value should contribute to the development of a complex offer (appropriate promotional package) of equestrian tourism in the Lublin Region
Teacher Role Model and Students' Physical Activity
Authors: Smuka Ingrida 
Published: April 2013

Abstract

Introduction. Physical activity is an important factor in health risk prevention, which improves the quality of life, as well as promotes both physical and mental health preservation [1, 2]. Each year, the lack of physical activity causes death of 600,000 people in Europe - approximately 6% of the total population [3]. Despite the significant number of studies that have been conducted on students' physical activity, it is also being claimed that studies on the teenage group are essential yet scarce, and the results are ambiguous [4]. This confirms the need for more such studies in order to better determine the significant factors in the promotion of students' physical activity. Material and methods. 339 students aged 11 to 19 participated in the collection of data base: 147 boys and 192 girls. Average age of participants was: 14.6 years. 75 students aged 14-19 years (33 girls and 42 boys) were involved in the pedagogical experiment. The average age of the participants was 16-19 years in School 1 (11 girls and 18 boys), and 14-17 years in School 2 (19 girls and 27 boys). Average age of participants was: 16.3 years. Three sports teachers participated in the pedagogical experiment as well. During the course of the experiment, teachers developed a model of pedagogical interaction in physical education classes. At each school the experiment lasted for 14 weeks. In both schools physical education classes were held twice a week. Results. Based on factor analysis, a model of pedagogical interactions promoting physical activity of students was developed. According to the results of the physical activity habits test (inventory) we can conclude that students have experienced positive and statistically significant changes in their physical activity. The boys were considerably more active during classes where the teacher was present as a participant of physical activities. Conclusions. Teachers and students remark that the applied contents of the pedagogical interaction model have positive effects on the interaction between students and teachers and stimulate physical activity of students.
Book Reviews
Authors: Huang Alexander C. Y. , Mondal Sandip , Sriwastav Sharmistha Chatterjee , Giza Natalia , Kawachi Yoshiko 
Published: April 2013

Diana E Henderson, Collaborations with the Past: Reshaping Shakespeare across Time and Media, Ithaca: Cornell University Press, 2006. Pp. xi + 289. ISBN 978-0801444197.
Vintage Shakespeare: New Perspectives From India and Abroad, eds. Prashant K. Sinha and Mohini Khot, Jaipur: Book Enclave, 2010. Pp. 240. ISBN 978-81-8152-271-9.
The Tempest by William Shakespeare, ed. Sarbani Chaudhury, New Delhi: Pearson Longman, 2009. Pp. Liii +217. ISBN 978-81-317-0981-8.
Elżbieta Stanisz, Kierunki Polskiej Szekspirologicznej Myśli Krytycznej w Dwudziestoleciu Miedzywojennym (1918-1939) [Shakespearean Criticism in Poland in the Inter-War Period], Toruń: Wydawnictwo Adam Marszałek, 2011. Pp. 290. ISBN 978-83-7611-887-1.
Shakespeare: The Indian Icon, ed. Vikram Chopra, New Delhi: The Readers Paradise, 2011. Pp. xxvi + 836. ISBN 978-81-920751-2-9
Effect of Integration on the Gross Value Added in the Baltic States Dairy Sector Secondary Level
Authors: Ozoliņš Jānis 
Published: April 2013

Abstract
Dairy sector is an essential part of Baltic States economies in terms of created gross value added (GVA) and labour usage. The dairy sector’s potential to create economic effect is underutilised as a result of fragmented production structure and ensuing low economic efficiency. Integration can facilitate concentration of the sector’s market structure. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the effect of dairy sector secondary-level company integration on the creation of GVA. To accomplish the aim, an extensive sample of 54 companies is used whereas previous research has been based on data of only 5-10 largest Baltic States companies. It is concluded that integration characteristics of dairy processing companies significantly influence relationships which express their GVA creation pattern. Dominating horizontally integrated dairy processing companies are the most valuable to the economy as their GVA increase rate which results from net turnover growth is the highest. Non-integrated companies’ GVA growth rate provided that their net turnover grows is lower than for dominating horizontally integrated companies. Increases in company size do not statistically significantly increase the relation of GVA to the sum of net turnover and other operating income. Both successful and commercially weak companies can produce high GVA in respect to their size. However, only the successful companies are expected to generate positive growth dynamics, be economically efficient and can be relied upon as driving force of dairy sector growth.
Formation of the EU Development Index
Authors: Vesperis Vladislavs 
Published: April 2013

Abstract
In the context of the global financial-economic crisis it becomes important to find a stronger base for assessment of the socio-economic development and, in particular, search for better indicators. Therefore, the hypothesis is set that it is necessary to develop the EU Development Index, which will provide better assessment of an on-going socio-economic change. The objective of the article is to describe the EU Development Index calculation results and compare them with the Human Development Index values for each Member state of the EU. Ranking list of the EU Member States according to the Human Development Index values did not change substantially, suggesting that the Human Development Index inadequately responds to key socioenvironmental changes that occurred during the global financial economic crisis. At the same time, a number of countries show a sharp decline of the EU development index values, reflecting the impact of global economic crisis, while some countries with a high level of public debt and low confidence of the financial markets have remained in their positions by the both indexes in the year 2009. However, these countries most probably will be forced to make the considerable fiscal discipline measures, which inevitably will have an impact on GDP and income indicators in these countries, therefore their rankings in the coming years will deteriorate. Completely impartial assessment will be possible when countries with high debt levels will have balanced their budgets and economic growth will be based mostly on their own income and production instead of external cash flows and investment entering the country. It can be concluded that EU Development Index allows, in a more equitable fashion, to assess disparities of the EU Member States by development level and more rapidly reflect the rapid socio-economic change.
The Influence of Synthetic Insecticides on the Dynamics of
Cabbage Stem Weevil (Ceutorhynchus pallidactylus Marsh.) and Cabbage
Pod Weevil (Ceutorhynchus obstrictus Marsh.)
in Winter Oilseed Rape
Authors: Grantina Ingrida , Turka Inara 
Published: April 2013

Abstract
Oilseed rape is affected by a complex of different crucifer pests. Cruciferous stem weevils
(Ceuthorhynchus spp.) are relatively new oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) pests in Latvia. Although currently
brassica pest control is performed according to the appearance of first specimens of Ceutorhynchus or other
brassica pests, for a large number of insecticide treatments a positive biological efficiency is observed (however,
within a large range – 8–98%). The current application of brassica pest control may be described as preventive,
which is not permitted in the integrated pest management system. The present research estimates biological
efficiency and application time of synthetic pyrethroid (PIR) and combined pyrethroid+neonicotonoid
(PIR+NNI) to control winter oilseed rape pest species, as well as stimulates discussion about their use.
Evaluation of the monitoring data of Ceutorhynchus spp. showed that C. typhae and C. sulcicollis emerge first,
but damaging species C. pallidactylus – a week later. Consequently it is not only necessary to monitor the
weevils but also to identify their species in order to decide on the control measures. The combined PIR+NNI
insecticide proved to have the highest biological efficiency for cabbage stem weevil control. Both classes of
synthetic insecticides revealed a considerable biological efficiency for weevil control. The research suggests
that effectiveness of insecticide is affected by many factors: plant development stage during the spray, agroclimatic
conditions, spray quality, field location and size, distribution of pests, and crop rotation.