bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Communicating Risks after Exposure Has Ended: Former Workers' Perspectives on PCBs
Authors: Fujishiro Kaori , Mobley Amy , Lehman Everett
Published: July 2013

While the importance of worker notification has been widely recognized, little attention has been paid to social and psychological contexts in which worker notification occurs, especially after the exposure has ended. This study explores workers' perspectives on exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a toxic material whose manufacture in the United States ended in 1977. Four focus groups were conducted with former workers ( n = 29) who were exposed to PCBs. Verbatim transcriptions were analyzed. Participants considered living in the PCB-contaminated community more dangerous than handling PCBs on the job. While they firmly believed that PCBs in the environment caused serious health problems, participants expressed doubts about the toxicity of PCBs in the workplace. Both beliefs undermined the value of worker notification about occupational exposure to PCBs. A long-term relationship between workers and researchers would provide opportunities to cultivate better understanding of the hazard and facilitate the process of worker notification.
Building the New Schoolhouse: The Massachusetts School Building Authority
Authors: Ames Jennifer , Levenstein Charles
Published: July 2013

In a 2010 special issue of New Solutions on school health and environment, Paulson and Barnett asked who is responsible for the environmental health of schools. The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), the product of liberals trying to bring organization and efficiency to school construction, is an “off-label” and only partial answer to the question. The MSBA, established in 2004, lent its ear to health and safety advocates who seized an opportunity to implement regulations, guidelines, and education reforms at the level of school construction. The MSBA's progressiveness is a model to localities and states across the United States facing the dual crisis of attacks on public education and financial inefficiency. However, the MSBA is still in its infancy. Time will tell whether the MSBA, viewed as a limited state pilot program, can survive and expand its environmental health programs or whether its initiative is only as good as its current leadership.
Reflecting on the Politics of Federal Worker Health and Safety Protections, 1962–2012: An Interview with Donald Elisburg
Authors: Weinstock Deborah , Elisburg Donald , Dunn Mary Lee
Published: July 2013

Donald Elisburg has spent his career advocating on behalf of workers. Trained as a labor lawyer, Mr. Elisburg has legal, legislative, policy development, and executive management experience in the fields of labor standards, workers' compensation, environmental and occupational safety and health, wages and hours, and employment and training. In the interview, Elisburg shares his insights on how to move a bureaucracy to advance worker health and safety and workers' rights.
Effect of phytogenic additives on performance, morphology and caecal microflora of broiler chickens
Authors: Vukic-Vranjes M. , Tolimir N. , Vukmirovic Dj. , Colovic R. , Stanacev V. , Ikonic P. , Pavkov S.
Published: July 2013

The objective of the research is to investigate effects of phytogenic
additives as broiler feed supplements on production and slaughtering
performances, morphological parameters and caecal microflora of fattening
chickens of Ross 308 provenance. The research was based on two trials. In
both trials, two feeding treatments were studied: a control diet with no
supplemental feed additives (K) and a diet with a phytogenic additive
supplemented to the control diet (1000g/t of Biomin PEP 1000, during the
whole period). In the first trial, a total of 304 chickens were studied, in
two treatments with four repetitions per pen with 38 chickens. The second
trial included 16800 chickens, and it was conducted as a macro trial, that
is, a pen with 8400 chickens was the subject of the trial. The results have
shown that the chickens fed with the supplemental phytogenic additive have
achieved significantly more favourable feed conversion rate. Differences in
body mass and mortality rate between the trial group and the control were not
statistically significant. Phytogenic additives did not have significant
effects on breast portion and abdominal fat. Adding the phytogenic additive
did not have significant effects on morphological parameters, but there was a
tendency to increasing villous height and crypt depth. In both trials, the
chicken groups fed with the supplemental phytogenic additive had less of all
investigated groups of bacteria, and the differences were statistically
significant for Enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcus in the first, and
Enterobacteriaceae and Enterococcus in the second trial. It can be concluded
that the diet with the supplemental phytogenic additive had a positive effect
on broiler performances, jejunum morphology parameters and caecal microflora.
Impact of mannanoligo saccharides on performance traits of rainbow trout
Authors: Obradovic S. , Zivkovic B. , Djekic V. , Sekler M. , Zivkov-Balos M. , Markovic M.
Published: July 2013

The effect of mannanoligo saccharides (MOS) as a food additive, applied at a
concentration of 0.2% (O-I group of fish) and 0.3% (O-II group of fish) on
morphometric characteristics and primary production of the Californian trout
was investigated. The experiment was conducted on 450 fish divided into three
groups with 150 individuals in each group, and lasted 40 days. The analysis
of obtained results established the beneficial effect of the applied
additives on morphometric parameters of the growth rate of fish, their final
mass and final linear dimensions, and their growth, but no statistically
significant differences (p> 0,05) were established. The highest body weight
and body length of studied groups was achieved by trout of O-II group (118.49
g, 19.59 cm), followed by trout of O-I group (118.04 g, 19.58 cm) and the
lowest K-group fish (115.94 g, 19.56 cm). Adding MOS in the feed mixture for
trout had a beneficial effect (p> 0.05) in the exercise of lower feed
conversion (FC) and better values of main production indicators: condition
factor (FC), protein efficiency ratio (PER), the specific rate growth rate
(SGR) and production index (PI) compared to the K group of fish that were fed
diets without added mannanoligo saccharides. The best results were achieved
by O- II fish group, and expressed in relative terms in comparison to the K
group of fish: better feed conversion by 5.61%, a better utilization of
protein feed value by 5.94%, a higher value of condition factor by 1.73 %,
the specific growth rate by 2.26% and a better value of production index by
8.27%.
Evaluation of quality of semi-natural grasslands of central Serbia upon phytosociological and numerical analysis
Authors: Petrovic M. , Acic S. , Zornic V. , Andjelkovic B. , Dajic-Stevanovic Z. , Babic S.
Published: July 2013

The aim of this paper is to present a numeric-statistical model by which it
is possible to evaluate the quality of the observed grassland upon floristic
and vegetation assessment. Thanks to this new methodological approach, the
impact of each individual plant species on overall quality of the grassland
could be estimated. The main goal was to determine species which
significantly determine the pastoral value of the grassland. The quality
(pastoral value) of the grassland was calculated using the numerical values
of quality index of each individual species of each relev? of the community.
For testing this numerical method, the total of 11 relev?s of 4 grassland
communities of hilly-mountainous area of Mt. Kopaonik was used. Analyzed
vegetation includes previously unpublished phytocenological relev?s as result
of our own field research. All analyzed relev?s were obtained using the
method of the Swiss-French phytocenological school. The results showed that
the best and the worst quality were determined for the ass. Festuco-Brometum
erectii, and the ass. Nardetum strictae, respectively. Species that highly
contributed to good and bad quality of grassland were Arrhenatherum elatius,
Festuca rubra, Dactylis glomerata, Trifolium repens, etc., and Carduus
alpestris, Hieracium hoppeanum, Ornithogalum umbelatum, respectively.
Implant stability and marginal bone level of microgrooved zirconia dental implants: A 3-month experimental study on dogs
Authors: Delgado-Ruíz Rafael , Markovic Aleksa , Calvo-Guirado Luís , Lazic Zoran , Piattelli Adriano , Boticelli Daniele , Maté-Sánchez José , Negri Bruno , Ramírez-Fernández María , Misic Tijana
Published: July 2013

Background/Aim. The modification of implant surfaces could affect mechanical
implant stability as well as dynamics and quality of peri-implant bone
healing. The aim of this 3-month experimental study in dogs was to
investigate implant stability, marginal bone levels and bone tissue response
to zirconia dental implants with two laser-micro-grooved intraosseous
surfaces in comparison with nongrooved sandblasted zirconia and sandblasted,
high-temperature etched titanium implants. Methods. Implant surface
characterization was performed using optical interferometric profilometry and
energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. A total of 96 implants (4 mm in
diameter and 10 mm in length) were inserted randomly in both sides of the
lower jaw of 12 Fox Hound dogs divided into groups of 24 each: the control
(titanium), the group A (sandblasted zirconia), the group B (sandblasted
zirconia plus microgrooved neck) and the group C (sandblasted zirconia plus
all microgrooved). All the implants were immediately loaded. Insertion
torque, periotest values, radiographic crestal bone level and removal torque
were recorded during the 3-month follow-up. Qualitative scanning electon
micro-scope (SEM) analysis of the bone-implant interfaces of each group was
performed. Results. Insertion torque values were higher in the group C and
control implants (p < 0.05). Perio-test values increased in all the periods
in proportion to the ex-tent of microgrooving as follows: the group C > the
control > the group B > the group A (p < 0.05). Radiographic measurements
showed minimal crestal bone loss at 3 months for microgrooved zirconia
implants (groups C and B) and control implants compared with the group A
implants (p < 0.05). The removal torque values increased with time for all
the groups as follows: the group C > the control > the group B > the group A
(p < 0.05). SEM showed that implant surfaces of the groups B and C had an
extra bone growth inside the microgrooves that corresponded to the shape and
direction of the microgrooves. Conclusion. The addition of micro-grooves to
the entire intraosseous surface of zirconia dental implants enhances primary
and secondary implant stability, promotes bone tissue ingrowth and preserves
crestal bone levels.
Structure and Mechanical Properties of Al-Li Alloys as Cast
Authors: Augustyn-Pieniążek J. , Adrian H. , Rzadkosz S. , Choroszyński M.
Published: July 2013

The high mechanical properties of the Al-Li-X alloys contribute to their increasingly broad application in aeronautics, as an alternative for the aluminium alloys, which have been used so far. The aluminium-lithium alloys have a lower specific gravity, a higher nucleation and crack spread resistance, a higher Young’s module and they characterize in a high crack resistance at lower temperatures. The aim of the research planned in this work was to design an aluminium alloy with a content of lithium and other alloy elements. The research included the creation of a laboratorial melt, the microstructure analysis with the use of light microscopy, the application of X-ray methods to identify the phases existing in the alloy, and the microhardness test.
The Influence of Benzoyl Peroxide on Gelation Rate of Silica Binder for Precision Casting
Authors: Nadolski M. , Konopka Z. , Łągiewka M. , Zyska A.
Published: July 2013

Substituting of ethyl silicate with ecologic sols of colloidal silica in the investment casting technology, resulting from the increased demands concerning environmental protection, caused the prolongation of production cycle for precision castings produced in multi-layer thin-walled ceramic shell moulds. Modification of Sizol 030 binder with benzoyl peroxide, proposed in the paper, was aimed at restriction of time needed for realization of a single layer of the shell mould, and by the same, of such a mould as a whole. Examination of kinetics of the drying process were held for the layers made of prepared moulding material and the influence of binder modification on the mould curing time was determined.
Effects of Fungicide and Acetylsalicylic Acid Treatments on the Physiological and Enzymatic Activity in Tomato (Lycopersicon Esculentum Mill.)
Authors: Horotan Aurelia , Oancea Simona
Published: July 2013

The paper deals with investigation of growth parameters of vegetative organs, peroxidase and catalase activities of Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. treated with a systemic fungicide and acetylsalicylic acid, respectively. Our results showed that both fungicide and acetylsalicylic acid lead to growth delays in tomato stems and leaves compared to control samples. During the growth, pathogen was rapidly inhibited by tomatoes treated with acetylsalicylic acid, affecting few plants (10%) compared to control group (40%). Results showed that samples treated with acetylsalicylic acid and control samples fructified better (30% higher) than tomatoes treated with fungicide. The latter did not suffer pathogen attack, but catalase activity was increased (107 mg H2O2/100 g FW) indicating oxidative stress. Activity of catalase and peroxidase in control and acetylsalicylic acid treated plants were of similar increased values, probably due to the pathogen infection. In particular, peroxidase activity increased during tomato fructification. Alternative substitution of fungicides with aspirin may improve tomato quality and production.
Effect of the soil water content on Jatropha seedlings in a tropical climate
Authors: Pérez-Vázquez A. , Hernández-Salinas G. , Ávila-Reséndiz C. , Valdés-Rodríguez O.A. , Gallardo-López F. , García-Pérez E. , Ruiz-Rosado O.
Published: July 2013

The purpose of this study was to evaluate growth, chlorophyll content, and photosynthesis in Jatropha at different levels of soil moisture. Plants were cultivated in containers and the treatments of the soil water content evaluated were: 0% (without watering), 20, 40, 60, and 80% soil water content. Plant height was statistically similar for all treatments, but the number of leaves differed significantly. Total dry matter and chlorophyll at 40, 60, and 80% soil water content were statistically similar, but different from 0 and 20% soil water content. Leaf area at 40, 60, and 80% soil water content was statistically different from 0 and 20% soil water content. The photosynthetic rate, transpiration and stomatal conductance at 60 and 80% soil water content were statistically similar but different from 0 and 20% soil water content. Water stress affected growth, chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate, transpiration, and stomatal conductance.
Effect of Nanosilver on Physiological Performance of Pelargonium Plants Exposed to Dark Storage
Authors: Hatami Mehrnaz , Ghorbanpour Mansour
Published: July 2013

This investigation was conducted to evaluate the effects of post-harvest application of silver nanoparticles (N-Ag) and dark storage on plastid pigments, petal abscission, lipid peroxidation and activities of ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and guaiacol peroxidase (POD) in pelargonium cultivars ‘Blue Wonder’ and ‘Anthony’. N-Ag was applied as foliar spray in concentrations 0, 20, 40, 60 and 80 mg·cm-3 and then the plants were stored for 5 days in a growth chamber in darkness at temperature 20±2 °C and relative humidity 65%. The results revealed that after dark storage the petal abscission of cv. ‘Blue Wonder’ increased up to 40% but significantly decreased in plants treated with 60 mg·cm-3 of N-Ag. Cultivar ‘Anthony’ showed lesser petal abscission than ‘Blue Wonder’, namely 25% in control and 4% after treatment with 60 mg·cm-3 N-Ag. In both cultivars, treatment with N-Ag resulted in higher contents of leaf chlorophylls and carotenoids in comparison to untreated control. In response to treatments with 20-60 mg·cm-3 N-Ag, the activity of APX and POD was higher at the end of 5 days storage period than in the control plants, which coincided with improved post-harvest performance of both pelargonium cultivars. The enhancement of enzyme activities indicated possible beneficial effect of the applied treatment on alleviation of dark storage-induced oxidative stress. Also, in both cultivars, MDA content decreased significantly with the increase of N-Ag concentration up to 60 mg·cm-3 and then a rapid increase at 80 mg·cm-3 followed. It is concluded that treatment with silver nanoparticles is effective for preventing dark storage-induced petal abscission of pelargonium.
Growth and Development of Potted Rhododendron Cultivars ‘Catawbiense Boursault’ and ‘Old Port’ in Response to Regulated Deficit Irrigation
Authors: Koniarski Michał , Matysiak Bożena
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) on growth and development of potted rhododendron ‘Catawbiense Boursault’ and ‘Old Port’ plants and to evaluate the usefulness of this technique for saving water in nursery production and promoting flowering. Plants were grown in 1.9 litre plastic containers in unheated greenhouse and were subjected to six irrigation treatments lasting for 14 weeks from June to mid-September. A drip irrigation system with one 2 dm3·h-1 emitter per container was used. Six treatments of irrigation were applied: T1) 1 ETp (evapotranspiration) (control, well watered plants); T2) 0.75 ETp (moderate deficit irrigation); T3) 0.5 ETp (strong deficit irrigation) during the entire period of the experiment and the others three were: T4) 1 ETp for 5 weeks followed by 0.5 ETp for 4 weeks and 1 ETp for 5 weeks (strong deficit irrigation in phase II); T5) 1 ETp for 5 weeks followed by 0.25 ETp for 4 weeks and 1 ETp for 5 weeks (very strong deficit irrigation in phase II) and T6) 0.5 ETp for 5 weeks followed by 1 ETp for 4 weeks and 0.5 ETp for 5 weeks (strong deficit irrigation in phases I and III and well watered plants in phase II). The results showed that exposing plants to moderate water deficit (0.75 ETp) for 14 weeks had the best effect on quality of Rhododendron ‘Old Port’ plants. In this cultivar the application of very strong water deficit (0.25 ETp) for 4 weeks during floral buds initiation improved significantly floral bud set. Reduction of water supply by 50% during 14 weeks of Rhododendron ‘Catawbiense Boursault’ cultivation resulted in both the enhanced plant quality and increased number of floral buds set. Rhododendrons has adapted to reduced water supplies through stomatal control. At the end of the experiment, chlorophyll fluorescence parameter Fv/Fm (quantum efficiency of photosystem II) did not indicate damage to photosynthetic apparatus and relative chlorophyll content in leaves of plants subjected to all irrigation regimes did not differ significantly between each other.
Nutritional Evaluation of Five African Indigenous Vegetables
Authors: Kamga R. Tchientche , Kouamé C. , Atangana A. R. , Chagomoka T. , Ndango R.
Published: July 2013

The promotion and consumption of indigenous vegetables could help mitigate food insecurity and alleviate malnutrition in developing countries. In this respect, 17 accessions (candidate breeding lines that have not yet officially been released) of five African indigenous vegetables: amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus), nightshade (Solanum scabrum), African eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum), jute mallow (Corchorus olitorius) and okra (Abelmoschus callei), previously selected for their superior agronomic and horticultural traits, were evaluated in Cameroon for minerals (Ca, Mg, K, P, Zn and Fe), proteins, and carotenoids content. Nutrient content differed significantly (P<0.001) between cultivars. Amaranth (especially line AM-NKgn) had the highest Ca, Mg, and Zn content in comparison to other genotypes studied. Nightshade had the highest K and Fe content. The highest K and Fe levels were found in nightshades BG24 and SS52, respectively. Nightshade had the highest level of protein, especially line BFS1. The highest amount of carotenoids was identified in the eggplant variety Oforiwa. The study revealed that these vegetables are important sources of some vital nutrients. Increased production and consumption of these nutrient-rich vegetables will help reduce the nutrition-related disorders in Africa.
Transport of biogenes in the Szeszupa fluvial-limnic system in the Suwalski Landscape Park
Authors: Jekatierynczuk-Rudczyk Elżbieta
Published: July 2013

Transport of biogenic matter along the course of the Szeszupa River in the Suwalski Landscape Park (SLP) occurs in accordance with the river continuum concept. Only TP concentration decreases along the river’s course. TP and TOC concentrations classify the Szeszupa River to the moderate ecological state. The ecological state of three lakes (Linówek, Pogorzałek, and Perty) in the Szeszupa River catchment was estimated as very good. The remaining lakes, due to high TP concentrations, belong to the moderate state. The management of the catchment affects the amount of biogenic matter supplied to the Szeszupa River. The highest proportion of forests in the Jaczniówka River catchment clearly results in a decrease in the amount of biogenes in the river. The remaining partial catchments, with a higher proportion of arable land, meadows, and pastures, provide higher amounts of bioelements. The loads of bioelements stored in lakes in the summer period are determined by the size of the lakes (surface area of a lake and volume of water accumulated in the lake basin). This directly suggests a lack of anthropogenic activity in the catchments or the very slight effect of it on the lakes’ ecological and trophic state.
Physical and Technical Energy Problems
Authors: Levin N. , Pugachev V. , Dirba J. , Lavrinovicha L.
Published: July 2013

The paper presents an overview of brushless electric motors used in hand electric tools and household appliances. Analysis of the motor types has shown that synchronous reluctance motors are the most reliable for lowpower drives of such tools and appliances due to their simple design, long service life and low cost of production. Solutions are proposed for significant decrease in the quadrature-axis magnetic flux of the synchronous reluctance motor. The motors are shown to develop the specific electromagnetic torque up to 0.35÷0.4 Nm/kg.
Unlike-Pole Inductor Generator with Electrically Integrated Armature and Excitation Windings for the Power Supply Systems of Passenger Cars / RADIĀLAS IEROSMES INDUKTORĢENERATORS AR ELEKTRISKI APVIENOTIEM ENKURA UN IEROSMES TINUMIEM PASAŽIERU VAGONU ELEKTROAPGĀDES SISTĒMAI
Authors: Levin N. , Kamolins E. , Pugachev V.
Published: July 2013

Substantial improvement of the undercar inductor generator used for supplying power to passenger cars is achievable through increasing its specific power, reliability, reparability, and decreasing the cost of its manufacturing. It is proposed to integrate electrically the armature and excitation windings of the generator thus considerably simplifying its design while reducing its mass and consumption of non-ferrous metals. To gain these advantages a test prototypal generator was made and bench-tested. The results of tests show that a 1.5-fold mass reduction is achievable along with good technical-economic indices of the generator.
Spectrum Usage in Mobile Broadband Communication Systems / RADIOFREKVENČU IZMANTOŠANA MOBILO PLATJOSLAS SAKARU SISTĒMĀS
Authors: Ancans G. , Bobrovs V. , Ivanovs G.
Published: July 2013

The increased demand of mobile broadband consumers on services in the mobile environment with high data rate and technologically developed mobile broadband communication systems will require more spectrum to be available in the future. The new technologies as well as the existing services require frequencies for their development. The authors investigate the available and potential future mobile terrestrial frequency bands - worldwide and in Europe. An insight into the spectrum management is provided, with radio access technologies, methods for more efficient use of mobile frequency bands and frequency cross-border coordination also addressed. It is stressed that the radio frequency spectrum is a limited national resource that will become increasingly precious in the future.
Internet Availability as an Indicator of Peripherality in Slovakia
Authors: Rosina Konštantín , Hurbánek Pavol
Published: July 2013

A method employing different data sources in the construction of indices that quantify internet availability is developed in this article, and it is applied at municipality and regional levels in Slovakia. The indices are subsequently correlated with other indicators commonly used to delineate peripheral areas, in order to evaluate factors which might influence (or be influenced by) the spatial distribution of internet availability. The results show that the information-communication technology side of spatial polarization generates similar patterns as the other more traditional aspects
Renegotiating Online News
Authors: Frey Elsebeth
Published: July 2013

Online journalism is negotiated and renegotiated in the newsroom of Journalen, the training website for students in journalism at Oslo and Akershus University College of Applied Sciences. Using quantitative and qualitative methods, the paper examines three spring terms of online news production by journalism students, particularly looking at sources, links and their multimedia news production. The findings are compared to the students’ professional peers in four news sites in the same period. All five sites are moving towards a convergent news modality. But the students tend to use more sources than their professional peers.
The Situation of National and Regional Public Television in Spain
Authors: Ibarra Karen Arriaza
Published: July 2013

Spain’s Public National Television (TVE) faces the uncertainty of defining its role as the main public broadcaster at a moment when neither the economic situation of the country nor the waning satisfaction with the citizens with TVE, make things any easier. Furthermore, the government announcement of TVE’s withdrawal of advertising in 2009 was widely commented, as there has never been any license fee in support of Spanish public media.

On the other hand, the economic crisis that Spain is going through has posed the issue on the need of cutting down governmental expenditures on the desk of Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy. Will these also include TVE, as it has happened with public regional media? Will Spanish citizens admit the importance of improving TVE now that two gigantic commercial media groups, Mediaset and Planeta, dominate the audiovisual landscape?
Integrating truck arrival management into tactical operation planning at container terminals
Authors: Yang Zhong-Zhen , Chen Gang , Song Dong-Ping
Published: July 2013

Truck arrival management (TAM) has been recognized as an effective solution to alleviate the gate congestion at container terminals. To further utilize TAM in improving the overall terminal performance, this study integrates TAM with the other terminal operations at a tactical level. An integrated planning model and a sequential planning model are presented to coordinate the major terminal planning activities, including quayside berth allocation, yard storage space allocation and TAM. A heuristic-based genetic algorithm is developed to solve the models. A range of numerical examinations are performed to compare two planning models. The result shows that: the integrated model can improve the terminal performance significantly from the sequential model alone, particularly when the gate capacity and the yard capacity are relatively low; whereas the sequential model is more efficient than the integrated model in terms of computational time.
A new planning model to support logistics service providers in selecting mode, route, and terminal location
Authors: Huynh Nathan , Fotuhi Fateme
Published: July 2013

In this paper, we address thefreight network design problem. A mixed integer linear program is formulated to help logistics service providers jointlyselect the best terminal locations among a set of candidate locations, shipping modes, and route for shipping different types of commodities. The developed model isapplied to two different networksto show its applicability. Results obtained from CPLEX for the case studiesare presented, and the benefit of the proposed model is discussed
Consequence of the introduction of routine FCH PET/CT imaging for patients with prostate cancer: a dual centre survey
Authors: Hodolic Marina , Michaud Laure , Huchet Virginie , Balogova Sona , Nataf Valérie , Kerrou Khaldoun , Vereb Marika , Fettich Jure , Talbot Jean-Noël
Published: July 2013

Background. Fluorocholine(18F) (FCH) was introduced at the beginning of April 2010 in France, Slovenia and three other EU member states for the localisation of bone metastases of prostate cancer with PET. The aim of the study was to compare the evolution of diagnostic imaging in patients with prostate cancer using a new radiopharmaceutical FCH, observed in France and in Slovenia, and to quantify the consequence of the results of new imaging modality on the detection rate of abnormal metastases and recurrences of prostate cancer.

Patients and methods. In two centres (France/Slovenia), a survey of the number of nuclear medicine examinations in patients with prostate cancer was performed, covering 5 quarters of the year since the introduction of FCH. For each examination, the clinical and biological circumstances were recorded, as well as the detection of bone or soft tissue foci.

Results. Six hundred and eighty-eight nuclear medicine examinations were performed impatients with prostate cancer. Nuclear medicine examinations were performed for therapy monitoring and follow-up in 23% of cases. The number of FCH PET/CT grew rapidly between the 1st and 5th period of the observation (+220%), while the number of bone scintigraphies (BS) and fluoride(18F) PET/CTs decreased (-42% and -23% respectively). Fluorodeoxyglucose(18F) (FDG) PET/CT remained limited to few cases of castrate-resistant or metastatic prostate cancer in Paris. The proportion of negative results was significantly lower with FCH PET/CT (14%) than with BS (49%) or fluoride(18F) PET/CT (54%). For bone metastases, the detection rate was similar, but FCH PET/CT was performed on average at lower prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and was less frequently doubtful (4% vs. 28% for BS). FCH PET/CT also showed foci in prostatic bed (53% of cases) or in soft tissue (35% of cases).

Conclusions. A rapid development of FCH PET/CT was observed in both centres and led to a higher detection rate of prostate cancer lesions.
Gödel-type spacetimes in f(R)-gravity
Authors: Saltı Mustafa , Korunur Murat , Açıkgöz İrfan
Published: July 2013

We focus on one of the famous problems in theoretical physics today: the problem of energy-momentum localization. Although many authors have endeavoured to solve this problem, it has remained unsolved until now. In this work, we consider the generalized version of the Landau-Lifshitz definition in f(R)-Gravity to discuss the energy-momentum localization problem in Gödel-type metrics. We also take into account five popular f(R) models to obtain specific results.
Fundamental solutions to time-fractional heat conduction equations in two joint half-lines
Authors: Povstenko Yuriy
Published: July 2013

Heat conduction in two joint half-lines is considered under the condition of perfect contact, i.e. when the temperatures at the contact point and the heat fluxes through the contact point are the same for both regions. The heat conduction in one half-line is described by the equation with the Caputo time-fractional derivative of order α, whereas heat conduction in another half-line is described by the equation with the time derivative of order β. The fundamental solutions to the first and second Cauchy problems as well as to the source problem are obtained using the Laplace transform with respect to time and the cos-Fourier transform with respect to the spatial coordinate. The fundamental solutions are expressed in terms of the Mittag-Leffler function and the Mainardi function.
The Efficiency of Active Asset Allocation Funds in the Period of Instability at Financial Markets
Authors: Krawiec Wojciech
Published: July 2013

The objective of the hereby paper is the assessment of domestic active asset allocation funds efficiency in the period of 2007-2012, including the comparison of earned return rates against the return rates obtained by other mixed funds, as well as WIG and WIG20 stock exchange indices. Additionally, the purpose of the paper is to analyse the investment policy applied by the above listed funds, carried out based on records included in adequate information prospectuses, and also having considered the investment portfolio compositions presented in annual and 6-month financial reports covering these funds.

The assessment of applied investment strategies efficiency is performed based on 12-, 24-, 36-, 48- and 60- month return rates set at the end of 6-month reporting periods. The analysis covered only domestic open-end active asset allocation investment funds included in this group following the definition accepted by Analizy Online investing assets in financial instruments issued by entities, officially seated in Poland or outside Poland and valuating participation units in PLN, which have been operating for at least 24 months from the day of 30th June 2012.
Selected Robust Methods for Camp Model Estimation
Authors: Trzpiot Grażyna
Published: July 2013

This paper presents evidence that Ordinary Least Squares estimators of beta coefficients of major firms and portfolios are highly sensitive to observations of extremes in market index returns. This sensitivity is rooted in the inconsistency of the quadratic loss function in financial theory. By introducing considerations of risk aversion into the estimation procedure using alternative estimators measures of variability we can overcome this lack of robustness and improve the reliability of the results.
Effect of soil moisture and temperature on N2O and CO2 concentrations in soil irrigated with purified wastewater
Authors: Nosalewicz M. , Stępniewska Z. , Nosalewicz A.
Published: July 2013

Flooded organic soils are potentially important sources of greenhouse gases. The effect of soil temperature and moisture on the concentration of N2O and CO2 at two depths of organic soil flooded with two doses of purified wastewater was studied. Nitrous oxide concentrations at the 10-30 cm depth range were generally increased with an increase in soil moisture, showing dependence on the aeration status of soil. The maximum values of N2O concentrations were higher at the 50-100 than 10-30 cm depth range, but a similar pattern of increasing maximum values of N2O concentration with an increasing input of nitrogen in treatments at both depth ranges was observed. The maximum concentrations of carbon dioxide within the 50-100 cm depth range remained at a similar level in all treatments reaching 7.1-7.7%, which indicated weak relations with the input of water and nitrogen at this depth range. We conclude that the N2O and CO2 concentrations at 10-30 cm depths in the examined organic soil flooded with 600mm year-1 of purified wastewater exhibited a similar level as the concentrations in soil watered only by precipitation.
What Would It Take to Change an Inference? Using Rubin’s Causal Model to Interpret the Robustness of Causal Inferences
Authors: Frank Kenneth A. , Maroulis Spiro J. , Duong Minh Q. , Kelcey Benjamin M.
Published: July 2013

We contribute to debate about causal inferences in educational research in two ways. First, we quantify how much bias there must be in an estimate to invalidate an inference. Second, we utilize Rubin’s causal model to interpret the bias necessary to invalidate an inference in terms of sample replacement. We apply our analysis to an inference of a positive effect of Open Court Curriculum on reading achievement from a randomized experiment, and an inference of a negative effect of kindergarten retention on reading achievement from an observational study. We consider details of our framework, and then discuss how our approach informs judgment of inference relative to study design. We conclude with implications for scientific discourse.
Mechanisms of Radiation Toxicity in Transformed and Non-Transformed Cells
Authors: Panganiban Ronald-Allan , Snow Andrew , Day Regina
Published: July 2013

Radiation damage to biological systems is determined by the type of radiation, the total dosage of exposure, the dose rate, and the region of the body exposed. Three modes of cell death—necrosis, apoptosis, and autophagy—as well as accelerated senescence have been demonstrated to occur in vitro and in vivo in response to radiation in cancer cells as well as in normal cells. The basis for cellular selection for each mode depends on various factors including the specific cell type involved, the dose of radiation absorbed by the cell, and whether it is proliferating and/or transformed. Here we review the signaling mechanisms activated by radiation for the induction of toxicity in transformed and normal cells. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of radiation toxicity is critical for the development of radiation countermeasures as well as for the improvement of clinical radiation in cancer treatment.
Tuning the Magnetic Properties of Nanoparticles
Authors: Kolhatkar Arati , Jamison Andrew , Litvinov Dmitri , Willson Richard , Lee T.
Published: July 2013

The tremendous interest in magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) is reflected in published research that ranges from novel methods of synthesis of unique nanoparticle shapes and composite structures to a large number of MNP characterization techniques, and finally to their use in many biomedical and nanotechnology-based applications. The knowledge gained from this vast body of research can be made more useful if we organize the associated results to correlate key magnetic properties with the parameters that influence them. Tuning these properties of MNPs will allow us to tailor nanoparticles for specific applications, thus increasing their effectiveness. The complex magnetic behavior exhibited by MNPs is governed by many factors; these factors can either improve or adversely affect the desired magnetic properties. In this report, we have outlined a matrix of parameters that can be varied to tune the magnetic properties of nanoparticles. For practical utility, this review focuses on the effect of size, shape, composition, and shell-core structure on saturation magnetization, coercivity, blocking temperature, and relaxation time.
The Enemy at the Gates: International Borders, Migration and Human Rights
Authors: Oberoi Pia , Taylor-Nicholson Eleanor
Published: July 2013

This article considers contemporary border management regimes from a human rights perspective. It demonstrates how a preoccupation with border controls and enforcement has led to serious concerns for the safety and protection of migrants. As border zones have expanded, border crossing has become a more stigmatized and dangerous activity, and even as globalization has given rise to easier and faster international travel, for some, such movement has been outlawed and stigmatized. Measures to strengthen and “secure” borders have paradoxically made migrants, particularly irregular and vulnerable migrants, more at risk of violence and exploitation by non-State and State actors. Migration governance regimes at international borders are thus increasingly located within security and enforcement frameworks that pay little attention to the principles and standards of international human rights law. The paper argues that a human rights-based approach to such regimes is urgently needed, in order to address a growing human rights crisis at international borders.
Surveying and Monitoring for Vulnerability Assessment of an Ancient Building
Authors: Fregonese Luigi , Barbieri Gaia , Biolzi Luigi , Bocciarelli Massimiliano , Frigeri Aronne , Taffurelli Laura
Published: July 2013

This paper examines how surveying and monitoring improve our knowledge about ancient buildings, allow the interpretation of their structural response and help in the search for the best solutions for their conservation. The case study of Palazzo del Capitano in Mantua (Italy) is analyzed. In particular, the attention is focused on the use of a Terrestrial Laser Scanner (TLS) for surveying and monitoring too, considering that the building structural control has been performed in combination with other traditional topographic techniques such as geometric leveling and topographic networks for 3D control based on measurements through total stations. The study of TLS monitoring has been tested only in the last decade and it is an innovative method for the detection of displacements of particular surfaces. Till now the research has focused only on the use of TLS monitoring to control large structures and in particular landscape situations; thus its use for a civil construction and historical buildings is a new field of investigation. Despite the fact technological development and new methodologies seem offer new future potential for the analysis of ancient buildings, currently there are still important limits for the application of the investigated surveying and monitoring techniques.
La protection sociale de la famille dans les pays de la Communauté
Authors: Barbier Jean-Claude
Published: July 2013

A l 'occasion de sa réunion de septembre dernier, le Conseil des ministres des affaires sociales de la Communauté européenne a adopté des conclusions concernant les politiques familiales. Le texte présenté ici part du constat de la forte diversité des systèmes de protection sociale des pays membres ; il s'attache à souligner, dans des contextes d'évolution sociodémographique qui sont globalement proches d'un pays à l'autre, quels sont quelques-uns des thèmes de préoccupations communes dans la CEE.
Propositions pour développer l'investissement formation
Authors: Moreau Jean-François , Lévy Gérard
Published: July 2013

Le présent article est issu d'une étude menée pendant un an dans plusieurs caisses d'Allocations familiales. Cette recherche concernait le personnel d'encadrement et son objet était double : d'une part, mettre à jour et caractériser certains éléments culturels communs ou particuliers à chaque niveau d'encadrement ; identifier les valeurs, les représentations et les attentes des cadres de structures, des cadres intermédiaires et agents de matoise des caisses ; d'autre part, définir des axes d'orientation pour la formation de ces agents d'encadrement, dans le contexte des changements profonds qui régissent actuellement la vie des caisses.
La nécessité d'une première réglementation en allocations familiales
Authors: Montes Jean-François
Published: July 2013

C'est avec les derniers soubresauts de la première guerre mondiale que des mesures expérimentales de sursalaires vont être généralisées, afin d'aider une partie des familles ouvrières durement éprouvées par l'inflation, celles chargées de famille. Les avancées lentes et chaotiques des dispositions et des réglementations conduisant à la création d'organismes marquent les origines du système institutionnel des allocations familiales.
La politique familiale en Suisse
Authors: Vielle Pascale
Published: July 2013

La politique familiale, système cohérent et organisé nationalement tel qu'on le connaît en France, n'existe pas en Suisse. Les mesures en matière d'allocations familiales, de garde d'enfants ou de congé maternité sont l'expression des conceptions que se fait la Suisse de la subsidiarité, de la démocratie directe et du rôle de la mère de famille. Ainsi l'échec à l'instauration d'un système unique d'allocations familiales pose le problème de la répartition des compétences entre le niveau fédéral et cantonal. La garde des enfants, prise en charge par le secteur privé, repose encore sur un bénévolat qui s'étiole, et l'influence de l'idéologie libérale limite l'affiliation à la protection sociale qui s'appuie aux branches professionnelles. Le jeu de la démocratie directe, souvent enviée à l'étranger, ne résiste pas à la lenteur et à la résistance au changement et à la complexité des prestations sociales. Enfin, le rôle traditionnel de la famille biparentale à un seul revenu marque la plupart des dispositifs sociaux, alors que la proportion de femmes actives est sensiblement proche de celle des pays européens.
Enquête sur les aides à la rentrée scolaire versées en 1994
Authors: Maingueneau Eric , Bihler François , Bonniol Jacques
Published: July 2013

Deux mesures importantes ont été prises par le Gouvernement à l'occasion de la rentrée scolaire 1994 : la reconduction de la majoration de l'allocation de rentrée scolaire (ARS) instaurée en 1993 et la création de l'aide à la scolarité (AAS) en remplacement des bourses des collèges (1). L'un des principaux objectifs de ces mesures était d'aider à la reprise économique par une relance de la consommation des ménages. La CNAF a tenté d'évaluer leur impact, par le biais d'une enquête menée auprès des allocataires des caisses d'Allocations familiales de Mâcon et de Grenoble. Les résultats montrent que ces aides ont été affectées pour une large part aux dépenses liées à la rentrée scolaire. D'un montant moyen de 2 520 francs, l'ARS touche des familles de un ou deux enfants, alors que ce sont surtout des familles de trois enfants à charge qui bénéficient du couplage ARS + AAS pour un montant de 4 540 francs. L'utilisation de ces aides varie en fonction du niveau d'études des enfants et de leur âge. L'adéquation entre le montant de l'ARS et les dépenses réelles est variable, mais 92 % des familles souhaitent la pérennisation de cette prestation et sa modulation en fonction de l'âge de l'enfant.
Le non-recours chez les plus pauvres : une approche empirique
Authors: Gilles-Simon Marie-Odile , Legros Michel
Published: July 2013

Le non-recours figure en bonne place parmi les explications avancées pour rendre compte du maintien d'un nombre important de ménages en dessous des seuils de pauvreté, en dépit de l'existence de prestations et de dispositifs sociaux. Autant que le manque d'informations, très souvent mis en avant, la négligence des bénéficiaires potentiels, leur désintérêt pour certaines mesures, leur lassitude devant les démarches à accomplir et les délais d'obtention, expliqueraient ce non-recours. L'enquête réalisée par le CREDOC, à la demande du Conseil économique et social, montre que ce phénomène est réel : quelle que soit la politique considérée, une partie plus ou moins importante de la population concernée n'en bénéficie pas. Cette enquête prouve par ailleurs que ce manque d'effectivité n'est pas la principale limite à l'efficacité des dispositifs actuels à lutter contre la pauvreté : V absence de synergie des politiques et des institutions y est pour beaucoup.