bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing Environment for Research and Learning in Secondary School
Authors: Grišāne Olga
Published: August 2009

Designing Environment for Research and Learning in Secondary School

Contemporary pedagogy searches for the ways to reorient teachers' and students' activity towards the aim of sustainable development. The teacher becomes involved both in teaching/learning activities and in researching the environment of his own activities in order to design the environment favourable for students' development. The article presents the analysis of research and learning environment and activities that promote the development of students' research skills in one of Latvia's secondary schools. It displays the research methods and means identified in students' research works, and evaluates the research environment in the school. Several types of environment were identified, which teachers can purposefully use to develop the research skills of their students. The results of analysis can be implemented by educational institutions, which organise students' research activities. The described methods and means can be used in learning environment with no supplementary material resources required and involving teachers in research of school environment therefore re-orientating their professional frames of reference to address sustainable development.
Interdisciplinary Mathematics and Science Education Through Robotics Technology: Its Potential for Education for Sustainable Development (A Case Study from the USA)
Authors: Gerretson Helen , Howes Elaine , Campbell Scott , Thompson Denisse
Published: August 2009

Interdisciplinary Mathematics and Science Education Through Robotics Technology: Its Potential for Education for Sustainable Development (A Case Study from the USA)

This case study pictures the challenges and successes described by two Grade 8 teachers as they attempt to use robotic technologies to integrate their mathematics and science curriculum in an interdisciplinary manner. We share our observations regarding the difficulties the teachers faced and their perceptions as they used the technology as part of classroom instruction. Our analysis indicates that the technology served as an effective management tool for teachers and a strong motivational tool for students. However, the data also reveal that the teachers struggled to integrate the technology in a manner that supported interdisciplinary instruction, particularly because they lacked time and appropriate curricular materials. Consequently, we argue that for robotic technology to be used as a model to support education for sustainable development, specific curriculum, adaptable to local contexts, needs to be readily available.
Integrating Knowledge, Feelings and Action: Using Vee Heuristics and Concept Mapping in Education for Sustainable Development
Authors: Vanhear Jacqueline , Pace Paul
Published: August 2009

Integrating Knowledge, Feelings and Action: Using Vee Heuristics and Concept Mapping in Education for Sustainable Development

Although children are regularly showered with environmental knowledge, this is rarely transformed into concerned action, probably because it is not meaningful for the learner and/or is highlighted at the expense of a personalized process of learning. Research in Education for Sustainable Development shows that besides knowledge acquisition feelings, psychological factors and active participation while learning are important determinants of commitment. Fostering an attitude of responsible environmental action is not dependent on what knowledge is delivered, but on how it is delivered and experienced. This paper describes the use of Vee Heuristics and Concept Mapping as pedagogical tools within the context of primary school learners' different learning patterns. It provides illustrations of Concept Maps constructed before and after the learning programme and discusses some implications of the findings. This paper suggests that the use of Vee Heuristics and Concept Mapping along with an awareness of how the child prefers to learn may be steps towards tapping-in the child's internal talking so that educators can understand how each learner responds to incoming information. Learning about environmental issues becomes relevant, meaningful and, in the long run, conducive to improved environmental responsible behaviour.
Student Teachers' Experiences of Their Studies in Educational Science and Psychology
Authors: Löfström Erika
Published: August 2009

Student Teachers' Experiences of Their Studies in Educational Science and Psychology

General studies in Educational Science and Psychology provide for many subject teacher students their first contact with pedagogy. The experiences may influence students' desire to pursue teacher education studies and to continue in the profession after graduation. The aim of the study was to analyse how students perceive intentionality, contextuality, constructivism, collaboration, feedback, and transfer of knowledge. Further, the university teachers' intentions for creating a meaningful learning experience for their students were analysed. 341 student and nine teacher responses were collected. Contextuality was the most highly rated feature indicating that the presentation of the theoretical content and practical application is well balanced, but there is a need to develop practices of providing feedback on the students' learning and progress. It is vital that the general studies in Educational Science and Psychology provide students with meaningful experiences, which they can relate to past knowledge and future professional application. In order to support students' development into professionals who recognise their responsibility to promote sustainable development and life-long learning, initial teacher education needs to provide students with a sense of meaning and continuity.
Professional Competences of Future Teachers: Perspective of Different Evaluators and Contexts
Authors: Makarevičs Valērijs
Published: August 2009

Professional Competences of Future Teachers: Perspective of Different Evaluators and Contexts

The article presents research on professional competence for future teachers. The study provides the answers to the questions 1) what are the differences between the future teachers' desirable and real professional competences evaluated by students themselves, their University teachers, and their potential employers? 2) what are the differences in the evaluation of future teachers' professional competences provided by the students and University teachers from the study programs enriched with the principles of ESD and those who come from other programs? The future teachers (n=24) and teachers from the Daugavpils University (n=24) as well as the school principals of Latgale region of Latvia (n=25) filled out the questionnaire by Grecov and Popova (2005). It was concluded that both students and teachers see the necessity for the further development of competences while encounter with ESD principles mostly elicits the need for the higher standards of professional competences and more critical stance toward the achieved level.
Role of Media in Students' Life and Their Environmental Education: A Survey of Students Aged 13 to 17
Authors: Katona Ildikó , Kárász Imre , Leskó Gabriella , Kosáros Andrea , Lakatos Gyula
Published: August 2009

Role of Media in Students' Life and Their Environmental Education: A Survey of Students Aged 13 to 17

Finding solutions to the problems of environmental protection and nature conservation, developing and performing environmentally conscious behaviour have become the main task of recent decade, this equally involves political, economic and social spheres. Beyond networking between these spheres, the media have to undertake a specific role in solving the above-mentioned problems and also attaining sustainability. A survey was conducted among 234 students between the age of 13-17, searching for the answers what connections students have to the media and whether and to what extent they are reached by the thematic channels and television programmes related to the environment and nature. It is argued that to deal with the issues raised by the results of the survey, a module dealing with environmental protection and nature conservation based on the application of different elements of media should be created for Hungarian schools.
The Ecology of Education: Knowledge Systems for Sustainable Development and Sustainability
Authors: Wensing E. , Torre Carlos
Published: August 2009

The Ecology of Education: Knowledge Systems for Sustainable Development and Sustainability

Research in knowledge systems for sustainable development (KSSD) seeks to determine how science and technology can be put into effective action at a local level. Teachers in education for sustainability attempt to achieve the same goal. KSSD research has indicated that success is context driven, that panaceas are inappropriate and that knowledge systems at best provide solutions in evolution. In this paper, we describe a teaching framework that we are developing to support KSSD researchers and teachers in education for sustainability based in ecology of education. While a need for ecology in education may be apparent, there is concurrently an equally important need for ecology of education. We argue that one cannot teach ecology in education adequately without an appropriate ecology of education. This paper first explains why teachers need to know this and then describes how teachers of education for sustainability can implement and assess this approach in the classroom.
Implementing the United Nations Decade on Education for Sustainable Development in Latvian Higher Education
Authors: Grabovska Rudīte , Grabowski Jens
Published: August 2009

Implementing the United Nations Decade on Education for Sustainable Development in Latvian Higher Education

The article analyzes the implementation of aims and tasks of the UN Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (DESD) (2005-2014) in Latvian higher education institutions (HEI). In the first part of the article the general context of DESD and its' objectives that will be necessary to reach in all levels of education systems are characterized. The second part describes the results obtained from the research on five Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) indicators by considering the situation in two state universities and two regional HEI in Latvia. Educational policies, strategies, curricula, documentations, and different activities in higher education were analyzed in the context of the DESD. Evaluation of the situation in Latvian HEI in general permits the authors to conclude that cooperation on ESD in global context is developed better than local initiatives.
Preschool and Primary School Children as Learners in 2030: Views of Finnish Student Teachers
Authors: Nurmilaakso Marja
Published: August 2009

Preschool and Primary School Children as Learners in 2030: Views of Finnish Student Teachers

Teachers are key to the future. Because of enormous future changes, teachers need to re-evaluate their thinking. This study focuses on what student teachers think of the future in preschool and primary school of the year 2030. The questionnaire, conducted in October 2007, reached 76 student teachers from the University of Helsinki in Finland. Of these students, 52 were preschool and 24 primary school student teachers. The research questions were: 1) How important is it that children in preschool and primary school in the year 2030 can use language and communication and can work in groups and in the environment? (2) How can preschool and primary school teachers support language learning and communication in the year 2030? (3) How will children in preschool and primary school in the year 2030 take responsibility for their own (child-centred) learning? The results confirm that preschool and primary school student teachers think very traditionally. Many felt that it would be less important for children in 2030 to speak many languages, and student teachers did not consider the use of computers.
Impact of pesticides use in agriculture: their benefits and hazards
Authors: Aktar Wasim , Sengupta Dwaipayan , Chowdhury Ashim
Published: August 2009

Impact of pesticides use in agriculture: their benefits and hazards
Effect of occupational exposure to cytostatics and nucleotide excision repair polymorphism on chromosomal aberrations frequency
Authors: Mušák Ludovít , Poláková Veronika , Halašová Erika , Osina Oto , Vodičková Ludmila , Buchancová Janka , Hudečková Henrieta , Vodička Pavel
Published: August 2009

Effect of occupational exposure to cytostatics and nucleotide excision repair polymorphism on chromosomal aberrations frequency

Authors evaluated the incidence of total chromosomal aberrations (CA) and their types - chromatid-type (CTA) and chromosome-type (CSA) in peripheral blood lymphocytes from 72 oncologic unit's workers occupationally exposed to cytostatics in relationship to polymorphisms of DNA repair genesXPD, XPGandXPC. The cytogenetic analysis was used for determination of chromosomal aberrations frequency and PCR-RFLP method for polymorphisms of genes. Statistically higher frequency of total CA was detected in exposed group as compared to control (1.90±1.34% vs. 1.26±0.93%; Mann-Whitney U-test,p=0.001). There was not detected any difference between CTA and CSA (0.92±1.04% vs. 0.98±1.17%). Similarly, in genesXPDexon 23 andXPCexon 15 wasn't detected any difference neither in total chromosomal aberrations nor in CTA and CSA types. Statistically significant decrease of total chromosomal aberrations and CTA-type with presence of variant allele C was detected in geneXPGexon 15. Authors pointed out the importance of individual susceptibility factors in evaluation of effects of genotoxic agents, in that event, when the concentration does not meet the occupational exposure limit.
New insight into the effects of lead modulation on antioxidant defense mechanism and trace element concentration in rat bone
Authors: Payal Bhardwaj , Kaur Harkiran , Rai Durg
Published: August 2009

New insight into the effects of lead modulation on antioxidant defense mechanism and trace element concentration in rat bone

Risks of heavy metals-induced severe bone disorders generate interest to their toxicity. The present study was undertaken to monitor the biochemical and antioxidant status of bone of 30 and 80 days old male Wistar rats exposed to 5 week lead treatment. At the end of study, the rats were sacrificed, their long bone i.e. femur were excised, cleaned of soft tissue, minced and homogenized. Nucleic acid content, alkaline phosphatase, lipid peroxidation, catalase, glutathione S-transferase and superoxide dismutase were determined in bone. In both groups of treated animals lead treatment increased the production of malondialdehyde, while reducing activities of catalase, glutathione S-transferase and superoxide dismutase, indicating that it causes oxidative stress. Parallely with these effects lead significantly reduced the nucleic acid content and the activity of alkaline phosphatase, considered as biomarkers of osteoblast's function, conditions and development of bones. Moreover the concentrations of copper, zinc, iron and sodium were reduced in the excised bones. The present study indicates that the lead induced bone toxicity and its deteriorated development is the consequence of a primary oxidative stress. Our results may be helpful in understanding the modulation of biochemical parameters under lead toxicity.
Experimental modeling of hypoxia in pregnancy and early postnatal life
Authors: Mach Mojmír , Dubovický Michal , Navarová Jana , Brucknerová Ingrid , Ujházy Eduard
Published: August 2009

Experimental modeling of hypoxia in pregnancy and early postnatal life

The important role of equilibrium of environmental factors during the embryo-fetal period is undisputable. Women of reproductive age are increasingly exposed to various environmental risk factors such as hypoxia, prenatal viral infections, use of drugs, smoking, complications of birth or stressful life events. These early hazards represent an important risk for structural and/or functional maldevelopment of the fetus and neonates. Impairment of oxygen/energy supply during the pre- and perinatal period may affect neuronal functions and induce cell death. Thus when death of the newborn is not occurring following intrauterine hypoxia, various neurological deficits, including hyperactivity, learning disabilities, mental retardation, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, dystonia etc., may develop both in humans and in experimental animals. In our animal studies we used several approaches for modeling hypoxia in rats during pregnancy and shortly after delivery, i.e. chronic intrauterine hypoxia induced by the antiepileptic drug phenytoin, neonatal anoxia by decreased oxygen saturation in 2-day-old pups. Using these models we were able to test potential protective properties of natural (vitamin E, melatonin) and synthetic (stobadine) compounds. Based on our results, stobadine was also able to reduce hypoxia-induced hyperactivity and the antioxidant capacity of stobadine exceeded that of vitamin E and melatonin, and contrary to vitamin E, stobadine had no adverse effects on developing fetus and offspring.
Possibilities of alternative generation II biotests at Artemia
Authors: Dvořák Petr , Žďárský Michal , Beňová Katarína
Published: August 2009

Possibilities of alternative generation II biotests atArtemia

The meaning of alternative biotests is described and discussed. The paper also deals with the possible application of the developmental studies of the seaArtemia franciscananauplinus. Five-day biotests including the validation criteria are described. The possibilities of the biotests are very wide. Additionally to the standard applications in ecotoxicology, there is a possibility of modelling pharmacological experiments or monitoring the effects of ionizing radiation and the interaction with other chemicals.
‘Time’ in tourism: ‘individual time’ and ‘social time’
Authors: Bonneau Michel
Published: August 2009

The author does a review of the research into tourist activity and concludes that the particular character of tourist behaviour is reflected best in the study of time budgets. He proposes Max Weber's ideal-type method to be used in the analysis. In the conclusions to the article the author presents typical examples of qualitative time (recreation, holidays, tourism).
Early tourism writing at the Jagiellonian University, Kraków (15th C.-mid-17th C.)
Authors: Jackowski Antoni
Published: August 2009

The author attempts to outline early tourism writing by professors and graduates from the Kraków Academy (Akademia Krakowska), the majority of which are geographic and cartographic works. Among the authors, Jan Długosz, Wawrzyniec Korwin, Jan z Głogowa, Maciej z Miechowa (Miechowita), Bernard Wapowski and Marcin Kromer should be mentioned.
The territoriality paradigm in cultural tourism
Authors: Jansen-Verbeke Myriam
Published: August 2009

A typical geographers' approach to tourism is to emphasise the analysis of spatial flows and space uses and the synthesis of territorial coherence between people, place and product. The renewed interest in the territorial aspects of tourism can be seen as a response to globalisation on the one hand and the search for unique, authentic and grass-rooted experience on the other. In recent tourism studies the focus and methods shift from a description of patterns to the analysis of processes of change that are induced by tourism (touristification). Understanding the forces that are transforming cultural landscapes (urban and rural) into tourismscapes is a crucial condition for visionary planning and responsible management of regions and places. Some reflections on the future research agenda in geo-tourism will be included.
International tourism in Małopolskie Województwo: the present situation and prospects for development
Authors: Kurek Włodzimierz , Pawlusiński Robert
Published: August 2009

Małopolskie Województwo is one of the most popular tourist regions in Poland. Due to many attractions, long traditions of hosting tourists and well-developed accommodation facilities, Małopolskie Województwo has become the destination for a growing number of international tourists in recent years. Significant growth in incoming international tourism is found both in Kraków and in mountain areas. The objective of this paper is to present the state of development of incoming international tourism in Małopolskie Województwo.
Urban ‘tourism exploration space’: the example of Łódź
Authors: Liszewski Stanisław
Published: August 2009

The author refers to the concept of ‘tourism space’ published earlier, and confronts this notion with a definition of ‘urban space’, bearing in mind that both these ‘spaces’ are subspaces of general ‘geographical space’. Assuming that each is distinguished on the basis of differing criteria, the author believes that the tourism function which gives rise to ‘tourism space’ can develop within ‘urban space’. Further on, the formulation of a precise definition of urban ‘tourism exploration space’ is focused on, which is understood as a personal space of created in the discovery of a city. The conclusion includes three case studies of urban ‘tourism exploration space’ in Łódź: Bidermann family properties, Piotrkowska courtyards and the ‘Green Ring of Tradition and Culture’.
The landscapes of tourism space
Authors: Włodarczyk Bogdan
Published: August 2009

The author attempts to define the term ‘tourism landscape’. It is treated as an important attribute of tourism space therefore, apart from its definition, the author presents its characteristic features and various types of such spaces with differing tourism landscapes. The landscapes of tourism space are treated not only as tourism assets or attractions, but also as the consequences of tourism activity on the natural and cultural environment.
The sightseeing attractions of Wrocław and their potential exploitation
Authors: Wyrzykowski Jerzy
Published: August 2009

The article presents the more important results of research concerning the sightseeing attractions of Wrocław which can then be used to inform the organisation of the tourism offer of the city.
Influence of N-fertilized substrata on biometric parameters and nitrogen content of seedlings with Thelephora terrestris
Authors: Hilszczańska Dorota
Published: August 2009

Wpływ azotu w podłożu na cechy biometryczne oraz zawartość tego pierwiastka w siewkach sosny zwyczajnej z mikoryząThelephora terrestris
Identification and quantitative analysis of phenolic compounds naturally occuring in wood of selected European and exotic tree species
Authors: Zarzyński Paweł
Published: August 2009

Identyfikacja i analiza ilościowa substancji o charakterze fenolowym naturalnie występujących w drewnie wybranych gatunków drzew europejskich i egzotycznych
The structure and dynamics of litterfall in forest stands in the Słowiński National Park in 2003-2005
Authors: Parzych Agnieszka , Trojanowski Jan
Published: August 2009

Struktura i dynamika opadu organicznego w wybranych drzewostanach Słowińskiego Parku Narodowego w latach 2003-2005
Adaptation of different silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) provenances to the conditions of the Sudetes
Authors: Barzdajn Władysław
Published: August 2009

Adaptacja różnych pochodzeń jodły pospolitej (Abies alba Mill.) do warunków Sudetów
The use of Monte Carlo method in significance tests of Ripley's function outcome or how to avoid false discovery of nonrandom spatial structure of tree stand
Authors: Bolibok Leszek
Published: August 2009

Metoda Monte Carlo w badaniu istotności wyników funkcji Ripleya, czyli jak się ustrzec fałszywego stwierdzenia nielosowości struktury przestrzennej drzewostanu
A preliminary study on the pathogenicity of three blue-stain fungi associated with Tetropium spp. to Norway spruce in Poland
Authors: Jankowiak Robert , Rossa Robert , Bilański Piotr
Published: August 2009

Wstępne badania nad patogenicznością trzech grzybów siniznowych związanych zTetropiumspp. na świerku pospolitym w Polsce
Identification of NATURA 2000 forest habitats on the example of Oleśnica Śląska Forest District
Authors: Stefańska-Krzaczek Ewa , Kącki Zygmunt
Published: August 2009

Identyfikacja leśnych siedlisk przyrodniczych NATURA 2000 na przykładzie Nadleśnictwa Oleśnica Śląska
Lime leafminer Phyllonorycter issikii (Kumata, 1963) (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae) in Poland
Authors: Jaworski Tomasz
Published: August 2009

Szrotówek lipowiaczekPhyllonorycter issikii(Kumata, 1963) (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae) w Polsce
Adaptation and initial growth of seed stand progeny of European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) in comparative plantations established in the Złotoryja and Lądek Zdrój Forest Districts
Authors: Barzdajn Władysław
Published: August 2009

Adaptacja i początkowy wzrost potomstwa drzewostanów nasiennych buka zwyczajnego (Fagus sylvatica L.) na uprawach porównawczych w nadleśnictwach Złotoryja i Lądek Zdrój
Effect of environmental factors and time of shooting on carcass weight of European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus L.)
Authors: Janiszewski Paweł , Daszkiewicz Tomasz , Hanzal Vladimir
Published: August 2009

Wpływ czynników przyrodniczych i terminu odstrzału na masę tuszy sarny europejskiej (Capreolus capreolusL.)
Forest fire hazard classification in Poland
Authors: Szczygieł Ryszard , Ubysz Barbara , Kwiatkowski Mirosław , Piwnicki Józef
Published: August 2009

Klasyfikacja zagrożenia pożarowego lasów Polski
Moisture content in dried forest tree seeds versus relative humidity of drying air
Authors: Załęski Andrzej , Aniśko Ewa , Kantorowicz Władysław
Published: August 2009

Zawartość wody w podsuszanych nasionach drzew leśnych a wilgotność względna suszącego powietrza
Monitoring of stands of lung lichen (Lobaria pulmonaria L.) in Białowieża Forest District forests and practical recommendations for its protection
Authors: Paluch Rafał
Published: August 2009

Monitoring stanowisk granicznika płucnika (Lobaria pulmonaria L.) w lasach Nadleśnictwa Białowieża i zalecenia praktyczne dla jego ochrony
Enzyme activity of soils after large-scale fires under varying habitat conditions using different methods of forest regeneration
Authors: Olszowska Grażyna
Published: August 2009

Aktywność enzymatyczna gleb pożarzysk wielkoobszarowych w zróżnicowanych warunkach siedliskowych i po zastosowaniu różnych sposobów odnowienia lasu
Stretch Exercises Increase Tolerance to Stretch in Patients With Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Law Roberta Y.W. , Harvey Lisa A. , Nicholas Michael K. , Tonkin Lois , De Sousa Maria , Finniss Damien G.
Published: August 2009

Background: Stretch is commonly prescribed as part of physical rehabilitation in pain management programs, yet little is known about its effectiveness.

Objective: A randomized controlled trial was conducted to investigate the effects of a 3-week stretch program on muscle extensibility and stretch tolerance in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain.

Design: A within-subject design was used, with one leg of each participant randomly allocated to an experimental (stretch) condition and the other leg randomly allocated to a control (no-stretch) condition.

Patients and Setting: Thirty adults with pain of musculoskeletal origin persisting for at least 3 months were recruited from patients enrolled in a multidisciplinary pain management program at a hospital in Sydney, Australia.

Intervention: The hamstring muscles of the experimental leg were stretched daily for 1 minute over 3 weeks; the control leg was not stretched. This intervention was embedded within a pain management program and supervised by physical therapists.

Measurements: Primary outcomes were muscle extensibility and stretch tolerance, which were reflected by passive hip flexion angles measured with standardized and nonstandardized torques, respectively. Initial measurements were taken before the first stretch on day 1, and final measurements were taken 1 to 2 days after the last stretch. A blinded assessor was used for testing.

Results: Stretch did not increase muscle extensibility (mean between-group difference in hip flexion was 1°, 95% confidence interval=−2° to 4°), but it did improve stretch tolerance (mean between-group difference in hip flexion was 8°, 95% confidence interval=5° to 10°).

Conclusion: Three weeks of stretch increases tolerance to the discomfort associated with stretch but does not change muscle extensibility in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain.
Border Security and Canadian Exports to the United States: Evidence and Policy Implications
Authors: Globerman Steven , Storer Paul
Published: August 2009

Border security-related costs and delays incurred by shippers have been cited by some observers as a significant impediment to trade between Canada and the United States. In fact, there is relatively little empirical evidence evaluating this concern. While there is some evidence that costs of exporting from Canada have increased as a result of post-9/11 border security developments, available econometric trade models offer contradictory evidence on whether or not the higher costs have reduced Canadian exports below what would otherwise be expected. This paper identifies and evaluates the sources of divergent results found in existing studies. It also provides some new evidence of significant shortfalls in Canadian exports to the United States beginning in the third quarter of 2001 and continuing through the end of 2007.
The Effectiveness of the Canadian Antidumping Regime
Authors: Malhotra Nisha , Rus Horatiu A.
Published: August 2009

Canada has the oldest antidumping (AD) regime in the world and has to this day been counted among the main users of AD measures. It is an important trade-remedy instrument that affects a relatively large proportion of Canadian imports, although its use and effects on trade could still be better understood. For example, in 2003 there were 92 measures in place affecting around C$1.3 billion worth of Canadian imports. An important question is whether imposing AD duties actually protects the domestic industry from import competition. We analyze the trade effects of AD policy in the manufacturing industry in Canada. We also look at the effect of an AD action on the level of imports from countries not named in the analysis in order to examine the extent of trade diversion. It is possible that imports might be partly diverted away from the alleged source country and to non-alleged countries, rendering AD laws ineffective in terms of benefiting the domestic industry. We construct a database using AD data for the years 1990–2000, and import data disaggregated at the ten-digit Harmonized System (HS) level, and ultimately find that Canadian AD policy is an efficient tool for restricting imports from countries that are “named” in an investigation or alleged to be dumping. When adopting a relatively coarse classification of named cases into two groups—affirmative (affirmative AD decisions and price undertakings) and negative (negative AD decisions)—we also find some evidence of trade diversion and “harassment” effects of AD.
Comparing Equity Policies in Canada and Northern Ireland: Policy Learning in Two Directions?
Authors: Agocs Carol , Osborne Bob
Published: August 2009

Employment equity has existed in Canada for 20 years and fair employment in Northern Ireland, in its strengthened form, almost that long. A comparison of the policy frameworks begins with Northern Ireland’s adoption of Canada’s legislation as its model. Canada’s policy covers a limited proportion of its workforce and addresses disadvantage affecting women, racialized minorities, Aboriginal people, and persons with disabilities, while Northern Ireland’s policy covers most employees and targets inequality between Catholics and Protestants. Implementation and enforcement of Canada’s and Northern Ireland’s policies differ. In Northern Ireland substantial progress has been made toward employment equality between Catholics and Protestants, while in Canada the four target groups continue to face significant disadvantage. Policy learning was initially from west to east, but it is timely now to consider the case for policy learning from east to west.
Embolization of a common carotid aneurysm with rhVEGF coupled to a pH-responsive chitosan in a rat model
Authors: Pan Hui , Zimmerman Thomas , Zakhaleva Julia , Abrahams John M. , Jiang Hongliang , Chen Weiliam
Published: August 2009

Object

Treatment of cerebral aneurysms by endovascular deployment of liquid embolic agents has been proposed as an alternative strategy to conventional coiling, and new materials are being developed for embolization. In this study, the authors used a single-injection, biocompatible, biodegradable and pH-responsive acrylated chitosan (aCHN) with conjugated vascular endothelial growth factor (rhVEGF) in a rat aneurysm model.

Methods

The efficacy of the aCHN formulation with rhVEGF was tested using a common carotid artery occlusion model in rats, and the extent of embolization was evaluated using quantitative, qualitative, and histopathological techniques after 14 days of implantation.

Results

The mean occlusion was significantly greater for the rhVEGF/aCHN-treated group (96.8 ± 3.0%) than for the group receiving aCHN (74.7 ± 5.6%) (p < 0.01). Through qualitative evaluation, intimal and medial proliferation were significantly greater with rhVEGF/aCHN than with aCHN and controls (p < 0.001). Degradation of the aCHN filler was monitored in concert with the production of extracellular matrix components. Macrophages migrated in and proliferated inside the occluded carotid artery lumens were identified by histological and immunostainings. Results showed resorption of chitosan with concurrent development of collagen and elastin into the vessel lumen, suggesting clot maturation into fibrosis.

Conclusions

Chitosan with a bioactive agent such as rhVEGF showed excellent results in occluding aneurysms in a rat model.
Endoscopic management of spontaneous meningoencephalocele of the lateral sphenoid sinus
Authors: Tabaee Abtin , Anand Vijay K. , Cappabianca Paolo , Stamm Aldo , Esposito Felice , Schwartz Theodore H.
Published: August 2009

Object

Spontaneous meningoencephaloceles of the lateral sphenoid sinus are rare lesions that are hypothesized to result from persistence of the lateral craniopharyngeal canal. Prior reports of the management of this lesion have been limited by its relative rarity. The objective of this paper is to report the theoretical etiology, surgical technique, and outcomes in patients undergoing endoscopic repair of spontaneous meningoencephalocele of the sphenoid sinus.

Methods

The authors conducted a retrospective review of a multiinstitutional series of 13 cases involving patients who underwent endoscopic repair of spontaneous meningoencephalocele of the lateral sphenoid sinus. The surgical technique and pathophysiological considerations are discussed.

Results

The clinical manifestations included CSF rhinorrhea (85%), chronic headache (77%), and a history of meningitis (15%). The endoscopic approaches to the lateral sphenoid sinus were transnasal (39%), transpterygoid (23%), and transethmoid (39%). Two patients (8%) had postoperative CSF leaks, one of which closed spontaneously and one of which required revision endoscopic closure. All patients were free of leak at most recent follow-up. One patient experienced postoperative meningitis in the early postoperative period.

Conclusions

Endoscopic endonasal closure is an effective modality in the treatment of spontaneous meningoencephaloceles of the lateral sphenoid sinus. If the sphenoid sinus has extensive lateral pneumatization, adequate exposure may require a transpterygoid approach.
Significance of postoperative fluid diuresis in patients undergoing transsphenoidal surgery for growth hormone–secreting pituitary adenomas
Authors: Zada Gabriel , Sivakumar Walavan , Fishback Dawn , Singer Peter A. , Weiss Martin H.
Published: August 2009

Object

Following successful transsphenoidal surgery in patients with growth hormone (GH)–secreting pituitary adenomas, a characteristic fluid diuresis has been described. In this paper the authors aimed to further analyze the degree of fluid diuresis as it relates to postoperative GH levels.

Methods

Between 2000 and 2008, 85 patients underwent transsphenoidal surgery for a GH-secreting adenoma at the USC University Hospital. A retrospective chart review was conducted. Postoperative fluid intake, output, and balance within 48 hours following surgery, as well as endocrinological data were recorded and analyzed. Patients with postoperative diabetes insipidus and those with insufficient data were excluded from analysis.

Results

Seventy-one patients were included in the analysis. The mean age was 46 years (range 16–74 years). There were 36 males (51%) and 35 females (49%). Patients with negative fluid balances at 48 hours after surgery were more than twice as likely to have a GH level of < 1.5 ng/ml (55 vs 25%, p = 0.023). At 48 hours after surgery, patients with a negative overall fluid balance had a significantly lower median GH level than those with a positive overall fluid balance (1.3 vs 2.4 ng/ml, p = 0.039). This difference was even more pronounced in patients with microadenomas and a negative overall fluid balance. By 48 hours following surgery, patients with postoperative Day 1 GH levels < 1.5 ng/ml had, on average, experienced diuresis of fluid > 1.1 L (median 1.5 L) more than patients with GH levels > 1.5 ng/ml.

Conclusions

Successful resection of GH-secreting adenomas is associated with a more pronounced fluid diuresis and negative overall fluid balance within 48 hours following transsphenoidal surgery. Patients with a negative fluid balance by postoperative Day 2 have a higher likelihood of having significantly reduced postoperative GH levels that may correlate with long-term surgical remission.
Fibroblast growth factor receptor–3 expression in meningiomas with stimulation of proliferation by the phosphoinositide 3 kinase–Akt pathway
Authors: Johnson Mahlon D. , O'Connell Mary J. , Pilcher Webster , Reeder Jay E.
Published: August 2009

Object

Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs)–1, –2, and –3 are expressed in the developing brain and may participate in CNS neoplasia. Fibroblast growth receptor–3 has not been demonstrated in the human CNS or its tumors. Nonetheless, it has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several other forms of neoplasia.

Methods

Twenty-four human meningiomas were evaluated using Western blot analysis for expression of FGFR3, its ligand acidic FGF, and concomitant phosphorylation/activation of p44/42 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), Akt, and STAT3. Mutations in exons 7 and 10 of the FGFR3 gene were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction in 10 meningiomas. Primary meningioma cells cultured from 10 human meningiomas were also treated with acidic FGF and evaluated for cell proliferation or activation/phosphorylation of p44/42 MAPK, Akt, and STAT3.

Results

Immunoblotting demonstrated the presence of FGFR3 in 12 (71%) of 17 primarily fibroblastic and transitional WHO Grade I meningiomas. The FGFR3 was detected in 4 (80%) of 5 WHO Grade II, and 2 of 2 Grade III tumors. Acidic FGF was detected in 3 (18%) of 17 Grade I, 1 (20%) of 5 Grade II, and 1 (50%) of 2 Grade III meningiomas. In WHO Grade I meningiomas, 3 of 6 tumors with no detectable FGFR3 had no detectable p-STAT3. In WHO Grades II and III meningiomas, FGFR3 expression was associated with p-STAT3, p-Akt, and p-p44/42 MAPK expression. No mutations were demonstrated in exons 7 or 10 by polymerase chain reaction in any meningioma. Treatment with acidic FGF, a ligand for FGFR3, stimulated meningioma cell proliferation and activation of Akt and STAT3 in primary meningioma cell cultures.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that FGFR3 and acidic FGF are expressed in adult human leptomeninges as well as WHO Grades I and II meningiomas. Fibroblast growth factor receptor–3 activation stimulates meningioma cell proliferation by activation of the phosphoinositide 3 kinase–Akt-PRAS40-mTOR and STAT3 pathways.
Postoperative radiographic findings in patients undergoing intracranial electrode monitoring for medically refractory epilepsy
Authors: Albert Gregory W. , Dahdaleh Nader S. , Reddy Chandan , Hansen Daniel R. , Vogel Timothy W. , Kawasaki Hiroto , Howard Matthew A.
Published: August 2009

Object

In this study the authors sought to determine whether any correlations existed between postimplantation head CT findings and the need to perform decompression surgery in patients with grid electrodes.

Methods

The authors identified 74 patients who underwent intracranial electrode monitoring for medically refractory epilepsy from January 2000 through June 2008. Only the 46 patients who had head CT scans available for review were included in the study. The authors were able to determine the number and types of electrodes placed as well as complications experienced. They reviewed the CT scans for abnormal findings including extraaxial fluid collections, intracranial hemorrhages, and signs of mass effect.

Results

All patients developed some degree of extraaxial fluid collection following the placement of intracranial electrodes. The maximum width of the extraaxial fluid collection and the degree of midline shift were not predictive of the need for decompressive surgery. The presence, but not degree, of midline shift was associated with the need for decompressive surgery. Likewise, the presence of ventricular asymmetry was correlated with the need for removal of the electrodes and bone flap. Patients without midline shift or ventricular asymmetry on CT did not require decompressive surgery.

Conclusions

After undergoing placement of intracranial electrodes all patients develop extraaxial fluid collections. In addition, many patients develop signs of mass effect including midline shift and ventricular asymmetry. When these findings are absent it is highly unlikely that surgical decompression is required.
A large-scale numerical model for computing isochrone geometry
Authors: Hindmarsh Richard C.A. , Leysinger Vieli Gwendolyn J.-M.C. , Parrenin Frédéric
Published: August 2009

A finite-difference model for the calculation of radar layer geometries in large ice masses is presented. Balance velocities are used as coefficients in the age equation and in the heat equation. Solution of the heat equation allows prediction of sliding areas and computation of basal melt rates. Vertical distributions of velocity are parameterized using shape functions. These can be set uniformly, or allowed to vary in space according to the distribution of sliding. The vertical coordinate can either be uniformly distributed within the thickness of the ice, or be uniformly distributed within the flux. The finite-difference scheme results in a large set of linear equations. These are solved using a nested factorization preconditioned conjugate gradient scheme. The convergence properties of some other iteration solution schemes are studied. The output is computations of age and temperature assuming steady state, in large ice masses at high resolution. Age calculations are used to generate isochrones which show the best fit to observed layers. Comparisons with analytical solutions are made, and the influence of the order of the finite-difference approximation and the choice of vertical coordinate on solution accuracy is considered.
Radar surveys of the Rutford Ice Stream onset zone, West Antarctica: indications of flow (in)stability?
Authors: Woodward John , King Edward C.
Published: August 2009

We present 1 and 100 MHz ground-based radar data from the onset region of Rutford Ice Stream, West Antarctica, which indicate the form and internal structure of isochrones. In the flow-parallel lines, modelled isochrone patterns reproduce the gross pattern of the imaged near-surface layers, assuming steady-state flow velocity from GPS records and the current accumulation rate for the last 200 years. We interpret this as indicating overall stability in flow in the onset region of Rutford Ice Stream throughout this period. However, in the cross-flow lines some local variability in accumulation is seen in areas close to the ice-stream margin where a number of tributaries converge towards the ice-stream onset zone. Episodic surface lowering events are observed followed by rapid fill episodes. The fill events indicate deposition towards the northwest, most likely generated by storm winds, which blow at an oblique angle to ice flow. More problematic is explaining the generation of episodic surface lowering in this area. We speculate this may be due to: changing ice-flow direction in the complex tributary area of the onset zone; a change in basal sediments or sedimentary landforms; a change in basal melt rates or water supply; or episodic lake drainage events in the fjord systems of the Ellsworth Subglacial Highlands. The study highlights the difficulty of assessing flow stability in the complex onset regions of West Antarctic ice streams.
Ice thickness, internal structure and subglacial topography of Bowles Plateau ice cap and the main ice divides of Livingston Island, Antarctica, by ground-based radio-echo sounding
Authors: Macheret Yu.Ya. , Otero J. , Navarro F.J. , Vasilenko E.V. , Corcuera M.I. , Cuadrado M.L. , Glazovsky A.F.
Published: August 2009

We present the results of low-frequency (20 MHz) radio-echo sounding (RES) carried out in December 2000 and December 2006 on the main ice divides of Livingston Island, South Shetland Islands (SSI), Antarctica, and Bowles Plateau, Antarctica, respectively, as well as high-frequency (200 MHz) RES on the latter, aimed at determining the ice thickness, internal structure and subglacial relief. Typical ice thickness along the main ice divides is ~150 m, reaching maxima of ~200 m. On Bowles Plateau the ice is much thicker, with an average of 265 m and maxima of ~500 m. The bed below the main ice divides is above sea level, while part of the outlet glaciers from Bowles Plateau lies significantly below sea level, down to –120 m. The strong scattering of the radio waves in the areas under study constitutes further evidence that the ice in the accumulation area of the ice masses of the SSI is temperate. Typical thickness of the firn layer in Bowles Plateau is 20–35 m, similar to that found in King George ice cap. A strong internal reflector within the firn layer, interpreted as a tephra layer from the 1970 eruption at Deception Island, has allowed a rough estimate of the specific mass balances for Bowles Plateau within 0.20–0.40ma–1w.e., as average values for the period 1970–2006.
A low-frequency ice-penetrating radar system adapted for use from an airplane: test results from Bering and Malaspina Glaciers, Alaska, USA
Authors: Conway Howard , Smith Ben , Vaswani Pavan , Matsuoka Kenichi , Rignot Eric , Claus Paul
Published: August 2009

Ice-thickness measurements are needed to calculate fluxes through fast-flowing outlet glaciers in Greenland, Alaska, Patagonia and Antarctica. However, relatively high attenuation of radio waves by dielectric absorption and volume scattering from englacial water hampers detection of the bed through warm deep ice. In the past we have had success measuring ice thickness of temperate glaciers using a ground-based monopulse radar system operating at low frequencies (2 MHz). Here we adapt the same system to operate from an airplane. Test flights over Bering Glacier, Alaska, USA, detected the bed through ice up to 1250m thick. Flights across the Seward–Malaspina Glacier system, Alaska, resolved the ice thickness of Malaspina Glacier, but strong hyperbolic-shaped returns obscured the bed echo through the Seward throat. It is likely that this clutter in the signal was caused by off-nadir returns from chaotic surface crevasses that are ubiquitous in the throat region.