Imitation jumps in ski jumping: Technical execution and relationship to performance level

ABSTRACT

Imitation jumps are frequently used in training for ski jumping. Yet, the dynamics of these jumps differ considerably. Thus, the relevance of imitation jumps for ski jumping performance is not elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the technical execution of imitation jumps and ski jumping performance level. We compared the imitation jumps of 11 ski jumpers of different performance levels using a Spearman correlation transform of time traces of the kinetics (measured using force cells and motion capture) of imitation jumps. The kinetic aspects that were related to performance centred on the moment arm of ground reaction force to the centre of mass before the onset of the push-off, angular momentum early in push-off, thigh angle during the main period of push-off and vertical velocity towards the end of push-off. We propose that the thigh angle may be a key element allowing high development of linear momentum while preparing for appropriate aerodynamic position. Furthermore, the findings suggest that the kinetic development prior to (and during) push-off is more important than the kinematic end state at take-off.     

Removal of Organic Acids from Indoor Air in Museum Storage Rooms by Active and Passive Sorption Techniques

ABSTRACT

Adsorbent materials can be used for the removal of organic acids from air in storage rooms with heritage collections. The organic acid removal efficiency of two commercially available activated carbon air-filters were tested in situ in two unoccupied stores with densely packed collections. One filter was designed for outdoor type pollutants (Filter A), while the other was designed for organic acids in indoor air (Filter B). Furthermore, the acetic acid removal efficiency of a desiccant silica gel rotor used for dehumidification was measured in a laboratory at different relative humidity levels. Finally, passive removal of acetic acid by silica gel and unfired clay brick were tested in a chamber, and for clay brick at room level as well. Filter B had the highest removal efficiency. The removal efficiency of both filter types depended on the airflow and the filter performance varied considerably in situ from the values reported from standard laboratory tests. Increasing the filter airflow reduced the removal efficiency from 77% and down to 7% for Filter A, and from 92% to 24% for Filter B. There was almost no effect of active air filtration on the concentration of organic acids when this was measured in the middle and in the corner of the storage rooms away from the ventilation inlets. The desiccant dehumidifier removed 98–100% of the acetic acid from the air, independently of the relative humidity. The desiccant rotor will, however, only be running when there is a need for dehumidification and as a result will only periodically remove pollutants. The high acid removal efficiency by dry silica gel was furthermore demonstrated in a chamber test. A clay brick wall in a test room established a concentration gradient across the room and reduced the concentration of organic acids by 56% compared to close to the emission source.     

Research and teaching in the universities of Denmark: Does such an interplay really exist?

The unity of research and teaching is an ingrained principle in university policy in Denmark, but this principle has also been subjected to increasing criticism. This article presents an investigation, consisting of about 50 interviews with teachers from higher educational institutions in Denmark, aiming at the illumination of this issue. According to the conclusions of this investigation it is the basic experience of the teachers that an important interplay exists between research and teaching of the individual teacher, and that almost none would prefer to work in a pure research institution. At the same time the teachers have some crucial reservations. Firstly it can be difficult to administer this twofold task. Secondly the interrelationships are dependent on several factors, the most important of which is the level of teaching and the disciplinary context. This latter factor is explained by differences pertaining to the very nature of varying disciplines - demonstrated and analyzed with reference to Thomas Kuhn and Basil Bernstein. Finally, the importance of the interrelationships between research and teaching for higher educational and research policies in broader perspective is discussed.