bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Cauchy problem associated to the Brinkman flow in Rn
Authors: Molina Del , Arbieto Alarcon , José Iorio
Published: June 2012

In this work we deal with the Cauchy problem associated to the Brinkman flow,
which models fluid flow in certain types of porous media. We study local and
global well-posedness in Sobolev spaces Hs(Rn), s>n/2+1, using Kato's theory
for quasilinear equations and parabolic regularization.
Resolving Audit Engagement Challenges through Communication
Authors: Bobek Donna D. , Daugherty Brian E. , Radtke Robin R.
Published: June 2012

This paper investigates the successful resolution of audit challenges faced by auditing professionals. We use an experiential questionnaire (EQ) (Gibbins and Qu 2005) to elicit practicing auditors' experiences with resolving challenges personally encountered on an audit engagement. One hundred ninety-seven auditing professionals from all levels (staff to partners) and firm types (local to Big 4) responded to our EQ, and 130 provided complete information about a self-identified challenge they had encountered. Over 70 percent of these challenges were successfully resolved wherein communication with other auditors on the engagement, along with communication with the client, aided most in the resolution process. These results provide evidence confirming theory-based research indicating the importance of knowledge sharing for CPAs (Vera-Muñoz et al. 2006). Our findings also extend prior research on the components of professional judgment (Gibbins and Emby 1985; Emby and Gibbins 1988; Gibbins and Mason 1988) by providing insight into the potentially troublesome area of challenges that are often encountered during an audit, and how effective communication can lead to successful resolution of such challenges.
Effect of ovarian activity on orthodontic tooth movement and gingival crevicular fluid levels of interleukin-1β and prostaglandin E2 in cats
Authors: Celebi Ahmet Arif , Demirer Serhat , Catalbas Bulent , Arikan Sevket
Published: June 2012

Objective:

To evaluate whether there is any correlation between ovarian activity and two potent bone-resorbing mediators (prostaglandin E2 [PGE2], interleukin-1β [IL-1β]) secreted from the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) during orthodontic tooth movement.

Materials and Methods:

Eighteen female cats were included in this study. Animals were randomly divided into three groups (estrous, anestrous, and ovariectomized groups), each having six queens. Estrous was induced by administration of 150 IU equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) to queens of the estrous group. A closed-coil spring, applied with 80 g of tipping force to the canine, was attached between the maxillary canine and mini-implant. GCF was collected on days 0, 6, and 12 from each cat to examine PGE2 and IL-1β during orthodontic tooth movement in cats. The PGE2 and IL-1β levels were determined with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:

There was no significant difference (P > .05) between anestrous and the ovariectomized groups in terms of tooth movement on days 6 and 12 of distalization. In contrast, tooth movement in the estrous group was lower (P < .05) than in the remaining two groups (anestrous and ovariectomized). The mean PGE2 and IL-1β levels of the canine teeth of the estrous groups were significantly lower than the remaining two groups on days 6 and 12 (P < .05) of coil spring applications.

Conclusions:

These results indicate that ovarian activity can affect orthodontic tooth movement and GCF levels of IL-1β and PGE2 in cats.
Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 Activation Enhances Gut Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Secretion and Improves Glucose Homeostasis
Authors: Wang Peijian , Yan Zhencheng , Zhong Jian , Chen Jing , Ni Yinxing , Li Li , Ma Liqun , Zhao Zhigang , Liu Daoyan , Zhu Zhiming
Published: June 2012

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is rapidly prevailing as a serious global health problem. Current treatments for T2DM may cause side effects, thus highlighting the need for newer and safer therapies. We tested the hypothesis that dietary capsaicin regulates glucose homeostasis through the activation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1)-mediated glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion in the intestinal cells and tissues. Wild-type (WT) and TRPV1 knockout (TRPV1−/−) mice were fed dietary capsaicin for 24 weeks. TRPV1 was localized in secretin tumor cell-1 (STC-1) cells and ileum. Capsaicin stimulated GLP-1 secretion from STC-1 cells in a calcium-dependent manner through TRPV1 activation. Acute capsaicin administration by gastric gavage increased GLP-1 and insulin secretion in vivo in WT but not in TRPV1−/− mice. Furthermore, chronic dietary capsaicin not only improved glucose tolerance and increased insulin levels but also lowered daily blood glucose profiles and increased plasma GLP-1 levels in WT mice. However, this effect was absent in TRPV1−/− mice. In db/db mice, TRPV1 activation by dietary capsaicin ameliorated abnormal glucose homeostasis and increased GLP-1 levels in the plasma and ileum. The present findings suggest that TRPV1 activation–stimulated GLP-1 secretion could be a promising approach for the intervention of diabetes.
Resting-State Brain Functional Connectivity Is Altered in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Musen Gail , Jacobson Alan M. , Bolo Nicolas R. , Simonson Donald C. , Shenton Martha E. , McCartney Richard L. , Flores Veronica L. , Hoogenboom Wouter S.
Published: June 2012

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a risk factor for Alzheimer disease (AD). Populations at risk for AD show altered brain activity in the default mode network (DMN) before cognitive dysfunction. We evaluated this brain pattern in T2DM patients. We compared T2DM patients (n = 10, age = 56 ± 2.2 years, fasting plasma glucose [FPG] = 8.4 ± 1.3 mmol/L, HbA1c = 7.5 ± 0.54%) with nondiabetic age-matched control subjects (n = 11, age = 54 ± 1.8 years, FPG = 4.8 ± 0.2 mmol/L) using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate functional connectivity strength among DMN regions. We also evaluated hippocampal volume, cognition, and insulin sensitivity by homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Control subjects showed stronger correlations versus T2DM patients in the DMN between the seed (posterior cingulate) and bilateral middle temporal gyrus (β = 0.67 vs. 0.43), the right inferior and left medial frontal gyri (β = 0.75 vs. 0.54), and the left thalamus (β = 0.59 vs. 0.37), respectively, with no group differences in cognition or hippocampal size. In T2DM patients, HOMA-IR was inversely correlated with functional connectivity in the right inferior frontal gyrus and precuneus. T2DM patients showed reduced functional connectivity in the DMN compared with control subjects, which was associated with insulin resistance in selected brain regions, but there were no group effects of brain structure or cognition.
The Relationship Between Brain Volume and Walking Outcomes in Older Adults With and Without Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Manor Brad , Newton Elizabeth , Abduljalil Amir , Novak Vera
Published: June 2012

OBJECTIVE

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) alters walking. Yet, the compensatory role of central locomotor circuits remains unclear. We hypothesized that walking outcomes would be more closely related to regional gray matter volumes in older adults with DPN as compared with nonneuropathic diabetic patients and nondiabetic control subjects.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Clinically important outcomes of walking (i.e., speed, stride duration variability, and double support time) were measured in 29 patients with DPN (type 2 diabetes with foot-sole somatosensory impairment), 68 diabetic (DM) patients (type 2 diabetes with intact foot-sole sensation), and 89 control subjects. Global and regional gray matter volumes were calculated from 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging.

RESULTS

DPN subjects walked more slowly (P = 0.005) with greater stride duration variability (P < 0.001) and longer double support (P < 0.001) as compared with DM and control subjects. Diabetes was associated with less cerebellar gray matter volume (P < 0.001), but global gray matter volume was similar between groups. DPN subjects with lower gray matter volume globally (P < 0.004) and regionally (i.e., cerebellum, right-hemisphere dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, P < 0.005) walked more slowly with greater stride duration variability and/or longer double support. Each relationship was stronger in DPN than DM subjects. In control subjects, brain volumes did not relate to walking patterns.

CONCLUSIONS

Strong relationships between brain volumes and walking outcomes were observed in the DPN group and to a lesser extent the DM group, but not in control subjects. Individuals with DPN may be more dependent upon supraspinal elements of the motor control system to regulate several walking outcomes linked to poor health in elderly adults.
Acephaly: Further Evidence for Disruption but Not for Amniotic Bands
Authors: Mazzitelli Nancy , Vauthay Liliana , Oliveri Jaen , Maccarone Belen , Rittler Monica
Published: June 2012

Complete absence of the fetal head in singleton pregnancies is a very rare defect; to our knowledge there are only 7 reported cases. Decapitation by amniotic bands has been considered as the most probable cause. However, in none of the described cases except one were amniotic bands, constriction rings, or other related findings observed, raising the possibility that mechanisms other than amputation by amniotic bands are involved. We present a further case of acephaly and discuss the role of amniotic bands and alternative mechanisms of decapitation and a possible sequence of events leading to acephaly.
Alterations of the Hsp70/Hsp90 chaperone and the HOP/CHIP co-chaperone system in cancer
Authors: Ruckova Eva , Muller Petr , Nenutil Rudolf , Vojtesek Borivoj
Published: June 2012

Activation of the Hsp90 chaperone system is a characteristic of cancer cells. The regulation of chaperone activities involves their interaction with cochaperones; therefore we investigated the expression of Hsp70 and Hsp90 and their specific co-chaperones HOP and CHIP in cancer cell lines and primary cancers. Inhibition of Hsp90 by 17AAG increased the levels of Hsp70, Hsp90 and HOP but not CHIP mRNA in cancer cells. These changes are linked to activation of the HSF1 transcription factor and we show that the HOP promoter contains HSF1 binding sites, and that HSF1 binding to the HOP promoter is increased following 17AAG. The lack of alteration in the co-chaperone CHIP is explained by a lack of HSF response elements in the CHIP promoter. Non-proliferating cells expressed higher levels of CHIP and lower HOP, Hsp70 and Hsp90 levels compared to proliferating cells. Decreased expression of CHIP in proliferating cancer cells is in keeping with its proposed tumor suppressor properties, while over-expression of HOP in proliferating cells may contribute to excessive Hsp90 activity and stabilization of client proteins in tumors. In a panel of colorectal cancer samples, increased expression of Hsp70 and an increased ratio of HOP to CHIP were found, and were associated with decreased median survival. These data indicate that multiple changes occur in the chaperone/co-chaperone system in cancer that impact patient survival. It is likely that the ability to identify individual alterations to this system will be beneficial for treatment strategy decisions, particularly those that employ chaperone inhibitors.
Angiogenin and vascular endothelial growth factor expression in lungs of lung cancer patients
Authors: Rozman Ales , Silar Mira , Kosnik Mitja
Published: June 2012

Background. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths. Angiogenesis is crucial process in cancer growth and progression. This prospective study evaluated expression of two central regulatory molecules: angiogenin and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in patients with lung cancer.

Patients and methods. Clinical data, blood samples and broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL) from 23 patients with primary lung carcinoma were collected. BAL fluid was taken from part of the lung with malignancy, and from corresponding healthy side of the lung. VEGF and angiogenin concentrations were analysed by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Dilution of bronchial secretions in the BAL fluid was calculated from urea concentration ratio between serum and BAL fluid.

Results. We found no statistical correlation between angiogenin concentrations in serum and in bronchial secretions from both parts of the lung. VEGF concentrations were greater in bronchial secretions in the affected side of the lung than on healthy side. Both concentrations were greater than serum VEGF concentration. VEGF concentration in serum was in positive correlation with tumour size (p = 0,003) and with metastatic stage of disease (p = 0,041). There was correlation between VEGF and angiogenin concentrations in bronchial secretions from healthy side of the lung and between VEGF and angiogenin concentrations in bronchial secretions from part of the lung with malignancy.

Conclusion. Angiogenin and VEGF concentrations in systemic, background and local samples of patients with lung cancer are affected by different mechanisms. Pro-angiogenic activity of lung cancer has an important influence on the levels of angiogenin and VEGF.
Ultrasound elastography as an objective diagnostic measurement tool for lymphoedema of the treated breast in breast cancer patients following breast conserving surgery and radiotherapy
Authors: Adriaenssens Nele , Belsack Dries , Buyl Ronald , Ruggiero Leonardo , Breucq Catherine , De Mey Johan , Lievens Pierre , Lamote Jan
Published: June 2012

Background. Lymphoedema of the operated and irradiated breast is a common complication following early breast cancer treatment. There is no consensus on objective diagnostic criteria and standard measurement tools. This study investigates the use of ultrasound elastography as an objective quantitative measurement tool for the diagnosis of parenchymal breast oedema.

Patients and methods. The elasticity ratio of the subcutis, measured with ultrasound elastography, was compared with high-frequency ultrasound parameters and subjective symptoms in twenty patients, bilaterally, prior to and following breast conserving surgery and breast irradiation.

Results. Elasticity ratio of the subcutis of the operated breast following radiation therapy increased in 88.9% of patients, was significantly higher than prior to surgery, unlike the non operated breast and significantly higher than the non operated breast, unlike preoperative results. These results were significantly correlated with visibility of the echogenic line, measured with high-frequency ultrasound. Big preoperative bra cup size was a significant risk factor for the development of breast oedema.

Conclusions. Ultrasound elastography is an objective quantitative measurement tool for the diagnosis of parenchymal breast oedema, in combination with other objective diagnostic criteria. Further research with longer follow-up and more patients is necessary to confirm our findings.
Demographic processes in rural areas of Belarus: geographical structure and spatial dynamics
Authors: Antipova Ekaterina , Fakeyeva Liudmila
Published: June 2012

Demographic processes in rural areas of Belarus: geographical structure and spatial dynamics

The study presents the spatiotemporal regularities and shifts in geo-demographic development of rural areas of Belarus at the multiscale level. Trends in rural population size dynamics for the period of 1959-2009 are detected and characterised. In accordance with the trends in the dynamics of the rural population of Belarus spatial regularities were identified. The geo-demographic territory of Belarus is typified on character of demographic dynamics and natural movement processes of rural population. We have identified three types of districts by the nature of the rural population dynamics for the period of 1970-2009: stable, growing and shrinking; and three types of natural population movement dynamics for the same period in accordance with spatial and temporal heterogeneity of the rural depopulation.
Socio-economic potential of Polish cities - a regional dimension
Authors: Bogdański Marcin
Published: June 2012

Socio-economic potential of Polish cities - a regional dimension

The main aim of the research presented in this paper was to construct and evaluate a synthetic index of socio-economic potential of Polish cities (IoEp) at the level of voivodships and also to examine relations between this potential and the economic development of regions. The index reflects the level of localisation advantages offered by a city. That is why an assumption was made that there is a positive relationship between the level of socio-economic potential of cities in a region (measured by the IoEP index) and its level of economic development. The obtained results show that there are significant and stable differences in the level of economic potential of Polish cities. One can also observe that the higher the level of IoEP was, the higher the value of regional GDP per capita. That gives some basis to positively verify the research hypothesis.
Socio-economic transformation of small towns in East Germany after 1990 - Colditz case study
Authors: Cudny Waldemar
Published: June 2012

Socio-economic transformation of small towns in East Germany after 1990 - Colditz case study

The article presents the main demographic and social, as well as functional and spatial changes that took place in Colditz after 1990. The town is inhabited by 4,870 people (2009) and is situated in Saxony, in the area of the former German Democratic Republic (GDR). The aim of the article is to present the main changes, which took place there after East and West Germany reunited in 1990. The author describes demographic and social changes in the population size, population growth, migration balance, unemployment, and other elements of urban community. Moreover, the article presents the changes in the economic-functional structure, such as de-industrialisation, succession of urban functions, and tourism development, as well as the main spatial changes in Colditz, such as architectural revitalisation and reconstruction of urban infrastructure. In the conclusions, the author briefly presents potential directions in the future development of the town.
Urbanisation and changes in fertility pattern in Poland and in the selected countries of Western and Southern Europe
Authors: Kurek Sławomir , Lange Milena
Published: June 2012

Urbanisation and changes in fertility pattern in Poland and in the selected countries of Western and Southern Europe

Since the beginning of the 1990s profound changes have occurred in reproductive behaviour in Central and Eastern Europe. They involve a sudden fall in the fertility rate, accompanied by an increase in the age of mothers giving birth to their first child, and a growth in the percentage of extramarital births. A similar course of changes in reproductive behaviour was observed almost a decade earlier in the countries of Southern Europe (Greece, Spain and Italy), and at the beginning of the 1960s in the countries of Western Europe (e.g. France). The aim of the study is to show the spatial changes in the fertility pattern in Poland compared to the selected European countries - Italy, Spain and France. Since new fertility patterns take hold most quickly among the inhabitants of large cities, as a result of the weaker effects of tradition and earlier formation of social norms owing to suburbanisation processes, the analysis of changes in reproductive behaviours will be conducted in the context of changes in urbanisation level. The time frame of the study encompasses an extended duration, especially taking into account the period of 1970-2010. For the comparison of large cities, data from 2010 or the nearest available were examined.
The efficiency of polycentric development strategies in the context of economic crisis. Case study - the development of Southwest Oltenia region - Romania
Authors: Peptenatu Daniel , Pintilii Radu , Draghici Cristian , Peptenatu Alina
Published: June 2012

The efficiency of polycentric development strategies in the context of economic crisis. Case study - the development of Southwest Oltenia region - Romania

Romania's polycentric development model was elaborated by the Interdisciplinary Centre for Advanced Researches on Territorial Dynamics within the University of Bucharest and by Urbanproiect SA. The elaboration of the polycentric development strategy is based on the human settlements' classification depending on their polarisation capacity and the designing of a polycentric network, able to ensure the territorial complexity necessary to the attenuation of negative impulses from the suprasystems' level. The world economic crisis may be considered the most powerful negative impulse after the Second World War, generating major disfunctionalities at the level of fragile territorial systems. The elaboration of some specific strategies, able to take into account the new challenges given by the global world, is an important preoccupation of the decision factors in order to increase territorial competitiveness.
Correlation of bio- and magnetostratigraphy of Badenian sequences from western and northern Hungary
Authors: Selmeczi Ildikó , Lantos Miklós , Bohn-Havas Margit , Nagymarosy András , Szegő Éva
Published: June 2012

Correlation of bio- and magnetostratigraphy of Badenian sequences from western and northern Hungary

Lithological, magnetostratigraphic and paleontological (nannoplankton, foraminifers, molluscs) studies were carried out on the Badenian successions of boreholes Sopron-89, Nagylózs-1 and Sáta-75 in Hungary. The correlations with the ATNTS2004 scale show that the Badenian sedimentation began during Chron C5Br thus the earliest Badenian deposits are missing in the sections. The first occurrence ofOrbulina suturalisBrönnimann has been observed in Subchron C5Bn.1r, at 14.9 Ma. Although it is older than the interpolated age of 14.74 Ma in Chron C5ADr in the ATNTS2004, it is consistent with the age of 15.1 Ma obtained from recent calibration of planktonic foraminiferal bioevents. The base of the Bulimina-Bolivina Zone has been determined at 13.7 Ma in Chron C5ABr, and the Badenian/Sarmatian boundary is recorded within Chron C5AAn, at 13.15 Ma.
The impact of environmental factors on distribution of Scops Owl Otus scops in the wider area of Kras (SW Slovenia)
Authors: Šušmelj Tina
Published: June 2012

The impact of environmental factors on distribution of Scops Owl Otus scops in the wider area of Kras (SW Slovenia)

The aim of the study was to determine the key environmental factors affecting Scops Owl Otus scops occurrence in the wider Kras plateau area (SW Slovenia, 665 km2). Scops Owl was systematically censused in 2006 (180 calling males) and in 2008 (167 calling males). Males were distributed either solitarily or clumped in groups, mostly situated in villages and its surroundings, indicating the species' synanthropic character. Crude densities were 0.3 males/km2 in 2006 and 2008, respectively, while ecological densities were 1.0 males/km2 in 2006 and 0.9 males/km2 in 2008. Population distribution remained roughly the same in both years, with the highest densities in the western and central parts of the Kras plateau, on Kraški rob and on Podgorski kras plateau. Habitat selection was analyzed at three spatial scales (regional, settlement and territory scales), based on spatial data layers (22 environmental variables), using Chi-square goodness-of-fit test and logistic regression. Results revealed that at the regional scale, Scops Owl preferably selected open habitats (extensively managed orchards, built-up areas, vineyards, permanent grasslands) and avoided dense forest and agricultural land with forest trees. As far as settlements were concerned, Scops Owl was more prone to select those that were more distant from the highway, with better preserved traditional agricultural landscape (with more hedgerows) and with higher average annual air temperature. In territory selection, Scops Owl occurrence was associated with longer distance from the highway, larger number of old buildings and higher landscape mosaics. The species seems to be threatened by traffic noise, habitat loss through abandonment and intensification of land and, potentially, by lack of breeding niches within settlements. Conservation measures should include the preservation of mosaic farmland, promotion of extensive agricultural practices, prevention of scrub and forest expansion, and maintenance of breeding niches (old trees, cavities in buildings).
Description of the Short-toed Eagle Circaetus gallicus breeding cycle at two sites in SW Slovenia during the years 2010 and 2011
Authors: Krečič Peter
Published: June 2012

Opis gnezditvenega ciklusa kačarja Circaetus gallicus na dveh lokacijah v JZ Sloveniji v letih 2010 in 2011
Evaluating the persistence of Phlebiopsis gigantea (Fr.: Fr.) Jülich mycelium and fruiting bodies in pine stumps after root-rot protection treatments
Authors: Małecka Monika , Żółciak Anna , Sikora Katarzyna , Sierota Zbigniew
Published: June 2012

Ocena występowania grzybni i owocnikówPhlebiopsis gigantea(Fr.: Fr.) Jülich w pniakach sosnowych po wykonaniu zabiegu ochronnego przed hubą korzeni
Validation of a stability model for riparian forest trees: examples using pedunculate oak Quercus robur L., Scots pine Pinus sylvestris L. and black alder Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn
Authors: Kałuża Tomasz
Published: June 2012

Weryfikacja modelu stateczności drzew na terenach zalewowych na przykładzie dębu Quercus robur L., sosny Pinus sylvestris L. i olchy Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn
Effect of pine admixture in a beech stand on the intensity of dissolved organic carbon, iron and aluminium leaching from organic and humic horizons of Dystric Arenosols
Authors: Jonczak Jerzy
Published: June 2012

Wpływ domieszki sosny w drzewostanie bukowym na intensywność wypłukiwania węgla, żelaza i glinu z poziomu organicznego i próchnicznego gleb bielicowo-rdzawych
Bioremediation of Polish military training grounds following post-training reclamation and environmental management during ongoing military operations
Authors: Borucka Anna , Mikosz Bogusław
Published: June 2012

Polskie poligony w aspekcie realizowanych działań militarnych i rekultywacji terenów popoligonowych
Regional sea level change and variability in the Caribbean sea since 1950
Authors: Palanisamy H. , Becker M. , Meyssignac B. , Henry O. , Cazenave A.
Published: June 2012

Regional sea level change and variability in the Caribbean sea since 1950

We investigate the regional variability in sea level in the Caribbean Sea region over the past 60 years (1950-2009) using an Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF)-based 2-dimensional past sea level reconstruction (a mean of 3 reconstructions based on few long tide gauge records and different sea level grids from satellite altimetry and ocean circulation models) and satellite altimetry data for the last two decades. We find that over the past 60 years, the mean rate of sea level rise in the region was similar to the global mean rise (~1.8 mm/yr). The interannual mean sea level of the placeCaribbean region appears highly correlated with El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) indices. Interpolation of the sea level reconstruction grid at different sites, in particular at the Caribbean Islands where tide gauge records are either very short or inexistent, shows that locally, the sea level trend is on the order of 2 mm/yr, i.e. only slightly larger than the mean trend over the region. Besides, correlation with ENSO is in general good, especially since the mid-1980s. We also find a significant correlation between the interannual variability in sea level and hurricane activity, especially over the past decade during which hurricane intensity and sea level interannual variability have both increased.
Mass balance and mass loss acceleration of the Greenland ice sheet (2002 - 2011) from GRACE gravity data
Authors: Joodaki G. , Nahavandchi H.
Published: June 2012

Mass balance and mass loss acceleration of the Greenland ice sheet (2002 - 2011) from GRACE gravity data

We examine the magnitude and acceleration of the Greenland ice sheet mass loss between 2002 and 2011. We use monthly observations of time-variable gravity from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellite gravity mission. The Greenland mass loss during this time period is not a constant, but accelerating with time. We have used a quadratic trend in addition to a linear trend, which is usually applied to the GRACE monthly time series of ice mass changes, to show that it better represents GRACE observations. Results of computations provide a mass decrease of -166±20 Gigatonne per year (Gt/yr) by using a linear trend and -111±21 Gt/yr by fitting a quadratic trend to the monthly time series. Quadratic fitting shows that the mass loss increases from -121 Gt/yr in 2002 - 2003 to -210 Gt/yr in 2006 - 2007 and -271 Gt/yr in 2010 - 2011 with an acceleration of -32±6 Gt/yr2 in 2002 - 2011. This implies that the Greenland ice sheet contribution to sea level rise becomes larger with time. Contrary to recent studies, we use a non-isotropic filter whose degree of smoothing corresponds to a Gaussian filter with a radius of 340 km. Stripping effects in the GRACE data, C20 effect, and leakage effects are applied.
Application of Fenton's Reagent in the Textile Wastewater Treatment Under Industrial Conditions
Authors: Ledakowicz Stanisław , Bilińska Lucyna , Żyłła Renata
Published: June 2012

Application of Fenton's Reagent in the Textile Wastewater Treatment Under Industrial Conditions

Application of reactive dyes is very popular in textile industry as these dyestuffs are characterized by good fastness properties. Constapel et al in 2009 estimated the production of this type of dyes for over 140,000 Mg/year. The reactive dyes are mostly (50%) employed for coloration of cellulosic fibers, however they can also be applied on wool and nylon. Unfortunately, they possess a low degree of fixation (50÷90%), since the functional groups also bond to water, creating hydrolysis and the excess of dyes applied cause a colored pollution of aqueous environment. Moreover, dyeing process requires the use of: electrolytes in the form of aqueous solutions of NaCl or Na2SO4 in the concentration up to 100 g/dm3, alkaline environment (pH > 10) and textile auxiliary agents (including detergents). Therefore, the wastewater generated during the reactive dyeing processes is characterized by high salinity, pH value and color, and due to low value of the BOD5/COD ratio are nonbiodegradable. The successful methods of textile wastewater treatment could be Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs), amongst which the Fenton reagent seems to be most promising as it is the cheapest and easy in use. Based on the newest literature survey it was found that many successful tests with Fenton reaction were performed mainly in decolorization. However, not enough attention was devoted to decolorization of real industrial wastewater containing dyes, detergents and salts NaCl, or Na2SO4. The experiments carried out in a laboratory scale were focused on the impact of NaCl and textile auxiliary agent (liquid dispersing and sequestering agent) on an inhibition of decolorization process by Fenton's reagent. The objects of the investigation were synthetic mixtures simulating the composition of real textile wastewater as well as the real industrial wastewater generated in the reactive dyeing. The inhibition of the Fenton decolorization in the presence of NaCl and liquid dispersing and sequestering agent was demonstrated. Additional experiments using pulse radiolysis were carried out in order to confirm the inhibition of chloride in the decolorization process.
Determination of Kinetics in Gas-Liquid Reaction Systems. An Overview
Authors: Kierzkowska-Pawlak Hanna
Published: June 2012

Determination of Kinetics in Gas-Liquid Reaction Systems. An Overview

The aim of this paper is to present a brief review of the determination methods of reaction kinetics in gas-liquid systems with a special emphasis on CO2 absorption in aqueous alkanolamine solutions. Both homogenous and heterogeneous experimental techniques are described with the corresponding theoretical background needed for the interpretation of the results. The case of CO2 reaction in aqueous solutions of methyldiethanolamine is discussed as an illustrative example. It was demonstrated that various measurement techniques and methods of analyzing the experimental data can result in different expressions for the kinetic rate constants.
Control of Landfill Gases Emission with Particular Emphasis on Btex
Authors: Staszewska Ewelina , Pawłowska Małgorzata
Published: June 2012

Control of Landfill Gases Emission with Particular Emphasis on Btex

Landfilling is the most popular way for waste disposal and has been widely applied globally. A large quantity of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is released from landfills. Among them, BTEX (benzene, toluene ethylbenzene and xylene) is a major group of pollutants, which have now become a cause for concern worldwide because of their toxic properties. For this reason, strict regulations have come into force which induce researchers to find methods to reduce their emissions. This article contains descriptions of several aerobic metabolic pathways for the degradation of BTEX, which are provided by two enzymatic systems (dioxygenases and monooxygenases). Special attention was paid to biofiltration - a method for improving the efficiency of treatment of BTEX released from landfills.
Assessing the Influence of the Presence of Heavy Metals Adsorbed on Activated Carbon on the Efficiency of Degradation of Phenol Using Selected Oxidizing Agents
Authors: Dąbek Lidia , Ozimina Ewa , Picheta-Oleś Anna
Published: June 2012

Assessing the Influence of the Presence of Heavy Metals Adsorbed on Activated Carbon on the Efficiency of Degradation of Phenol Using Selected Oxidizing Agents

Removing organic substances from wastewater is a complex problem. Different methods are used for this purpose. Recently, much attention has been given to the application of sorption and advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), which contribute also to the regeneration of activated carbon. The analysis presented in this paper focused on determining the influence of Cu(II) and Fe(II) ions adsorbed on activated carbon on the efficiency of oxidation of phenol by means of H2O2, Fenton's reagent Fe2+/H2O2 and 1:1 HNO3 solution exposed to 2450 MHz microwaves, and, accordingly, the influence of Cu(II) and Fe(II) ions on the sorptive capacity of regenerated activated carbons. The results show that the chemical regeneration of activated carbon using AOPs resulted in partial oxidation of the adsorbed organic substance. The presence of Cu(II) or Fe(II) ions increased the regeneration efficiency. Using nitric acid to oxidize adsorbed phenol brought about a dramatic decline in the sorptive capacity of activated carbon with respect to this substance and an increase in the sorptive capacity of carbon with respect to metal ions. A serious drawback of this method, however, is that the oxidation of adsorbed phenol caused a significant loss of mass of activated carbon regardless of the oxidizing agent used.
Assessment of Content of Fat and Tocopherols in Seeds of Amaranthus in Relation to Diversified Fertilization with Macroelements
Authors: Skwaryło-Bednarz Barbara
Published: June 2012

Assessment of Content of Fat and Tocopherols in Seeds of Amaranthus in Relation to Diversified Fertilization with Macroelements

This study is based on the field experiment carried out in the years 2007-2008, on an individual farmer's field in Bodaczow, near Zamosc. The aim of the experiment was to determine the influence of different dosages of NPK on the content of fat and homologous tocopherols in the seeds of two varieties of amaranth: Rawa and Aztek. The experiment was started on brown soil made from loess, with high content of P, K and Mg, and slightly acidic reaction (pH in l mol KCl·dm-3 - 5.8). The experiment was started with split-plot method in three repetitions, and involved: two varieties of amaranthus (Rawa and Aztek), and 4 variants of fertilization with macroelements NPK (kg · ha-1) (1 - object without any fertilization, 2 - 70 N, 50 P2O5, 50 K2O; 3 - 90 N, 60 P2O5, 60 K2O; 4 - 130 N, 70 P2O5, 70 K2O). The content of fat was marked in the seed with Soxhlet's method, and α-, β-, γ- and Δ-tocopherol with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The study reveals that the amount of accumulated fat in the seeds of amaranthus largely depended on the variety of the plant and variant of fertilization with macroelements. Significantly high content of fat in the seeds was found at the fourth (the highest) level of fertilization with NPK. Higher content of fat in the seeds was determined in Aztec variety than Rawa. The varieties of amaranthus varied considerably in the content of: α-, β-tocopherol and their total amount. Higher content of α-tocopherol and its higher total amount was found in the seeds of Aztek variety, rather than Rawa. The seeds of Rawa variety had significantly more β-tocopherol than Aztek variety. Fertilization with growing dosages of NPK had a significant, positive influence only on the amount of α-tocopherol and its total amount.
Interfaces and contradictions comparing adults' attitude to learning and employers' expectations
Authors: Zuzevičiūtė Vaiva , Teresevičienė Margarita , Rutkienė Aušra
Published: June 2012

Interfaces and contradictions comparing adults' attitude to learning and employers' expectations

This paper, based on empirical research, aims at analyzing interfaces and contradictions of employers' and employees' attitudes to in-service professional training. We present the results of a two-stage empirical research program. The research enabled the identification of the attitude to whether opportunities for learning are provided and what barriers can be identified. Also, the employers' attitudes to the ways of providing these opportunities, and certain contradictions and tasks for the future were identified. Several methods of empirical research have been employed as well as the critical and systemic analyses of documents and literature.
Cognitive style and experiences of working environment in small and medium-sized enterprises
Authors: Löfström Erika
Published: June 2012

Cognitive style and experiences of working environment in small and medium-sized enterprises

Individual differences in information processing are viewed through the concept of cognitive style. Cognitive style is displayed in various situations in working life in which the individual engages in problem solving, decision making or learning. The aim of this study was to analyse the relationships between personal (gender, age, level of education) and work-specific (position, field of trade, number of years of work experience in the field) variables and cognitive style. This research applies a quantitative design by using the Cognitive Style Index and a working environment index. Data were collected from 228 staff members in 100 small and medium-sized enterprises in Finland. The study replicated previous research findings in which women display a more analytical cognitive style than men. The lower the level of education, the higher the score is on the scale measuring analytic cognitive style. Regarding position in working hierarchies, the managers constituted the least analytic group in terms of cognitive style (convergent thinking with focus on detail), the workers the most analytic one. The experiences of a supportive working environment correlated positively with an intuitive cognitive style. The experiences of a prejudiced working environment correlated positively with an analytic cognitive style (divergent thinking with focus on the "big picture"). The implications for human resources management are outlined.
Integration of ICCD camera and spectrometer for spectroscopic purposes
Authors: Savić I. , Gavanski L. , Djurović S. , Mijatović Z. , Kobilarov R.
Published: June 2012

Integration of ICCD camera and spectrometer for spectroscopic purposes

This paper is concerned with a procedure of ICCD camera coupling and adjustment to the spectrometer and its application. In this way, the built instrument was calibrated and characterized. Testing of the obtained instrument performances for recording spectral lines as narrow as 0.34 nm was also peformed.
Thermomechanical study of non-crystalline chalcogenides in the As-S-Cd system
Authors: Lukić-Petrović S. , Vučkovac M. , Skuban F. , Dimitrievska M. , Videnović I. , Pinzenik V.
Published: June 2012

Thermomechanical study of non-crystalline chalcogenides in the As-S-Cd system

The work analyzes the thermomechanical behavior of glasses of the pseudobinary system (As2S3)100-x(CdS)x, consisting of variable ratios of the classical amorphous semiconducting compound As2S3and CdS molecule, which is used in manufacturing of photoresistors sensitive to visible and near infrared light. The study encompassed the determination of the thermal coefficients of linear expansion in solid and visco-plastic phases, softening temperature, and the temperature of the beginning of deformation. The results show that the values of these parameters increase with increase in the share of CdS in the initial matrix, as well as the reduction of instructural strength of the correlation matrix of glass. The analytical forms of dependence of significant physical values αg,Tg,Tw, as a function of CdS content in the structure of glasses were fitted to the measured data. Based on the obtained coefficients of linear expansion, the Poissons coefficient was also calculated.
Differences in growth and productivity between genotypes of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) in the Sadovo region of Bulgaria
Authors: Stoilova Tsvetelina , Berova Malgozhata
Published: June 2012

The study examined the differences between 10 accessions of common bean and cowpea during the vegetation period. Different stages of development and elements of yield were analysed in the climatic conditions of Sadovo (Bulgaria), which is characterised by hot summers and insufficient rainfalls. All genotypes were planted in the second 10 days of April. They emerged 10-15 days after sowing. The flowering stage occurred after 28-34 days in common bean and 45-60 days in cowpea. The vegetation period duration was much longer in cowpea (over 98 days) than in the common bean (less then 80 days). The reproductive organs (number of pods and seeds per plant, size of pods and seeds, weight of pods and seeds per plant) were quite different for the two crops. The mean number of pods per plant was 8.84 in common beans and 13.22 for cowpea; the number of seeds per pod was 4.05 for beans 10.56 for cowpea; the number of seeds per plant was 25.65 for beans and 93.47 for cowpea. The bean seeds were larger than the cowpea seeds, with 100-seed weights of 41.86 g and 15.73 g, respectively. Under the climatic conditions of Sadovo, the cowpea accessions showed a more stable yield, resulting in more pods and seeds per plant and weight of seeds per plant, when compared with common bean accessions.
Estimation of growth and yielding of five highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) cultivars
Authors: Wach Dariusz
Published: June 2012

In the years 1996-1999, a study was conducted on the estimation of the growth and yielding of northern highbush blueberry on a brown soil developed from loess. The study comprised bushes from five highbush blueberry cultivars - ‘Bluecrop’, ‘Bluejay’, ‘Darrow’, ‘Herbert’ and ‘Jersey’ - aged from six to nine years since planting. ‘Bluecrop’ bushes were the tallest and those of ‘Darrow’ the shortest, but ‘Darrow’ was characterised by the largest number of annual shoots. The best yielding was ‘Darrow’ and its berries were the largest. ‘Bluejay’ and ‘Jersey’ produced the lowest yields. In the study, the highest estimate was awarded to ‘Darrow’ (number of annual shoots, yielding, fruit size), and ‘Bluecrop’ also proved to be a valuable cultivar.
The Assessment of the Surface Water Quality Using the Water Pollution Index: A Case Study of the Timok River (The Danube River Basin), Serbia
Authors: Brankov Jovana , Milijašević Dragana , Milanović Ana
Published: June 2012

The Assessment of the Surface Water Quality Using the Water Pollution Index: A Case Study of the Timok River (The Danube River Basin), Serbia

The Timok River (202 km long, 4547 km2 basin area) is located in East Serbia. It is a right tributary of the Danube River and one of the most polluted watercourses in Serbia. On the basis of the data provided by the Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia, the paper presents an analysis of water quality and pollution using the combined physico-chemical WPI index (Water Pollution Index) calculated for two periods - 1993-96 and 2006-2009 at four hydrological stations: Zaječar-Gamzigrad (Crni Timok River), Zaječar (Beli Timok River), Rgotina (Borska Reka River) and Čokonjar (Timok River). The following parameters were taken into consideration: dissolved O2, O2 saturation, pH, suspended sediments, Five Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5), Chemical Oxygen Demand (CODMn), nitrites, nitrates, orthophosphates, ammonium, metals (Cu, Fe, Mn, Hg, Ni, Zn, Cd), sulphates and coliform germs. The average WPI values were calculated for the observed periods based on the comparison of the annual average values of the listed parameters and defined standard values for the I water quality class (according to the Regulation on the Hygienic Acceptability of Potable Water of the Republic of Serbia). The highest pollution degree was recorded in the Borska Reka River, where heavy metal levels (especially manganese and iron) were significantly increased. These metals are indicators of inorganic pollution (primarily caused by copper mining). Also, increased values of the organic pollution indicators (ammonium, coliform germs, Five-Day Biological Oxygen Demand - BOD5) in the Borska Reka and the Timok rivers are the result of uncontrolled domestic wastewater discharge.
Effect of Pleurotus florida on paddy straw digestibility and biogas production
Authors: Phutela Urmila Gupta , Kaur Karamjeet , Gangwar Madhurama , Khullar NK
Published: June 2012

Biogas production from paddy straw offers a great potential as an alternative to fossilfuels. But, lignin and silica adversely affect the efficient utilization of paddy straw. Henceforth, the potential of biological pretreatment of paddy straw by a lignocellulolytic fungus, Pleurotus florida was investigated whereby the straw was inoculated with different spore concentrations of Pleurotus florida for different durations. Biodegradability of paddy straw was determined at different incubation periods and the selected pretreatment was further used for biogas production studies. An incubation period of 30 days was found to be the optimum pretreatment period in enhancing paddy straw digestibility with 19.3% increase in cellulose and 55.1% decrease in lignin. The biologically degraded paddy straw resulted in 15.4% increase in biogas production than that of the untreated paddy straw. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v6i1.5550