bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Between Europeanization and De-Europeanization: A Comparative Content Analysis of the Pre-election Presentation of the EU Agenda in the Czech Quality Press
Authors: Urbániková Marína , Volek Jaromír
Published: November 2014

The paper explores the process of the Czech journalists setting the EU agenda in the media during the ‘hot phase’ of the Czech national parliament election campaigns in 2002, 2006, and 2010. Unlike most studies that concentrated on the media agenda in the European Parliament election campaigns, we focused on periods that were neither strictly key events nor routine, but that were more intensively covered by the media and simultaneously generated more influential political representation defining national political attitudes towards the EU. Articles that referred to the EU during the ‘hot phase’ were content analyzed. The results suggest that in the Czech press, the EU agenda is less and less visible, and, moreover, that it is increasingly negatively framed and reduced to an economic agenda.
The Cauchy problem for the homogeneous Monge–Ampère equation, III. Lifespan
Authors: Rubinstein Yanir A. , Zelditch Steve
Published: November 2014

We prove several results on the lifespan, regularity, and uniqueness of solutions of the Cauchy
problem for the homogeneous complex and real Monge–Ampère equations (HCMA/HRMA) under various a priori regularity conditions.
We use methods
of characteristics in both the real and complex settings to bound the lifespan
of solutions with prescribed regularity. In the complex domain,
we characterize the

C
3

${C^{3}}$

lifespan of the HCMA in terms of analytic
continuation of Hamiltonian mechanics and intersection of complex time
characteristics.
We use a conservation law type argument to prove uniqueness
of solutions of the Cauchy problem for the HCMA.
We then prove that the Cauchy problem is ill-posed in

C
3

${C^{3}}$

, in the sense
that there exists a dense set of

C
3

${C^{3}}$

Cauchy data for which there exists
no

C
3

${C^{3}}$

solution even for a short time.
In the real domain we show that the HRMA is equivalent
to a Hamilton–Jacobi equation, and use the equivalence to prove that
any differentiable weak solution is smooth,
so that the differentiable lifespan equals the convex lifespan determined
in our previous articles. We further show that the only obstruction
to

C
1

${C^{1}}$

solvability is the invertibility of the associated Moser maps.
Thus, a smooth solution of the Cauchy problem for HRMA exists for a positive but generally finite time and cannot be continued even as a weak

C
1

${C^{1}}$

solution afterwards. Finally, we introduce the notion of a “leafwise subsolution” for the HCMA that
generalizes that of a solution, and many of our aforementioned results are proved
for this more general object.
Controlled ring-opening polymerization of 1,2,6-tricyclic orthoesters of mannose toward size–controlled α-d-mannopyranan
Authors: Yongyat Chanokpon , Ruchirawat Somsak , Boonyarattanakalin Siwarutt
Published: November 2014

Lipomannan (LM), one of the major components of glycans found on the cell wall of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, plays a critical role in interacting with host cells and moderating immune response. The backbone of LM is composed of α(1–6) mannopyranan, consisting of approximately 10–15 repeating mannose residues. Rapid synthesis of α(1–6) mannopyranan has been accomplished by ring-opening polymerization using 3,4-O-benzyl-β-d-mannopyranose 1,2,6-orthobenzoate (1) as a starting monomer. Here, we report the progress on attempts to control the size of α(1–6) mannopyranan polymer products. It is possible to prepare α-d-mannopyranan polymer products in different sizes by varying the monomer concentration.
Beyond biofuels: economic opportunities, recent advances and challenges in property modeling for vegetable oils
Authors: dos Santos Moisés Teles , Gerbaud Vincent , Le Roux Galo A.C.
Published: November 2014

Despite the greater attention given to biofuels application in the literature, there are many economic and environmental drivers to use vegetables oils (VOs) as a renewable feedstock for other applications. These drivers are discussed in the present work and the technological challenges imposed by this shift towards new VOs uses are also discussed. They are mainly associated to the reaction routes issues, the performance regarding end-user properties, experimental procedures and property prediction models. The need for more holistic approaches (life cycle analysis) is briefly discussed and the potential benefits arising from new computer-aided tools are highlighted as well.
Greener route to 4-vinyl-1-cyclohexane 1,2-epoxide synthesis using batch and continuous reactors
Authors: Mohammed Misbahu L. , Mbeleck Rene , Patel Dipesh , Sherrington David C. , Saha Basudeb
Published: November 2014

Polystyrene 2-(aminomethyl)pyridine (Ps.AMP) supported molybdenum (Mo)(VI) complex (Ps.AMP.Mo) was prepared, characterized and assessed as a catalyst for batch and continuous epoxidation of 4-vinyl-1-cyclohexene (4-VCH) using tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as an oxidant. The effect of various parameters such as reaction temperature, feed molar ratio (FMR) of 4-VCH to TBHP and catalyst loading on the conversion of TBHP to 4-vinyl-1-cyclohexane 1,2-epoxide (4-VCH 1,2-epoxide) was studied to optimize reaction conditions in a batch reactor. The long-term stability of Ps.AMP.Mo was evaluated by recycling a sample of the catalyst several times in batch experiments. A detailed evaluation of Mo leaching from the polymer supported catalyst was investigated by isolating any residue from reaction supernatant solutions and then using these residues as potential catalysts in epoxidation reactions. The efficiency of Ps.AMP.Mo catalyst for continuous epoxidation studies was assessed using a FlowSyn continuous flow reactor by studying the effect of reaction temperature, feed flow rate and FMR of 4-VCH to TBHP on the conversion of TBHP and the yield of 4-VCH 1,2-epoxide. The experimental results confirmed very high selectivity and efficiency of Ps.AMP.Mo catalyst for batch and continuous epoxidation.
Adsorption of organic chemicals on graphene coated biochars and its environmental implications
Authors: Ghaffar Abdul , Younis Muhammad Naeem
Published: November 2014

Biochar is a stabilized carbon-rich product, and has drawn scientists’ interest because of its specific properties and potential use in many environmental areas. It is emphasized that innovative technologies comprised of engineered nanoparticles in conventional biochar systems could ameliorate the functions of biochar to some extent, such as carbon sequestration, soil fertility and wastewater treatment. As a result, it enables an enhanced sorption of both inorganic and organic pollutants to their surfaces, reducing environmental fate and mobility. In this study, biochar and graphene-coated biochars were prepared by dip-coating of biomass by slow pyrolysis. Batch sorption experiments were performed on the resultant biochars to evaluate sorption ability. The graphene covering on biochar surface changes to increase the surface properties of the biochars, exhibiting the greatest surface area, pore volume and carbon content. Graphene-coated biochars had the ultimate sorption ability compared to their corresponding chars. The sorption data indicated that electrostatic attraction, π-π interaction between graphene sheets on the char surface and aromatic domain, was the controlling mechanism for the sorption of organic chemicals onto the chars. Graphene-coated biochars can thus be used as a stable, cheap sorbent, biomaterial for the removal of organic pollutants from aqueous media.
“Lunch Keeps People Apart”: The Role of English for Social Interaction in a Multilingual Academic Workplace
Authors: Negretti Raffaella , Garcia-Yeste Miguel
Published: November 2014

Research on the role of language in multilingual workplaces, where English is often adopted as a lingua franca (ELF), shows that language practices influence socialization and interpersonal communication, frequently creating issues such as asymmetrical sharing of information, language clusters, or thin communication. Similarly to other organizations, academic workplaces are undergoing a process of internationalization. However, academia as a workplace has been largely ignored, particularly in terms of language practices in social situations. We address this gap by investigating multilingualism in an academic workplace; departing from the concepts of language clustering and thin communication, we focus on how language practices affect social interaction and the establishment of rapport. We report the experiences of five academics with various backgrounds and status in a science university department in Sweden. In-depth interviews and grand/mini tour elicitation techniques reveal how language practices – English and other languages – are experienced from different points of view. We identify lunch as the primary activity associated with social interaction and exchange of information: people and places connected with this activity seem to determine language practices. In the final section we discuss the presence of language clustering and thin communication in this academic workplace.
Placing Elisabeth Förster-Nietzsche in the Crosshairs
Authors: Holub Robert C.
Published: November 2014

In the postwar era Elisabeth Forster-Nietzsche has been held responsible for the reputation her brother acquired during the Third Reich as a prophet of National Socialism. In scholarly writing and popular accounts Forster-Nietzsche’s manipulation of her brother’s writings and letters, as well as her philologically unsound editorial practices, has led most observers to the hasty assumption that she intervened in his texts in order to fashion the image of Nietzsche as a German nationalist and anti-Semite. Recently Christian Niemeyer has renewed these attacks on Nietzsche’s sister, fearing that contemporary scholarship has forgotten the violations of her brother’s legacy. His philological accounts are flawed, however, and his arguments are contrived and unpersuasive. In fact, if we look closely at the evidence and Forster- Nietzsche’s editorial practices, we find that she consistently included letters and passages that demonstrated Nietzsche’s intense opposition to the anti-Semitism of his era and to conservative Wilhelmine politics. In Niemeyer’s article Forster-Nietzsche is once again unfairly blamed for Nietzsche’s favorable reception as a proto-Nazi.
Die Nietzsche-Rezeption in Korea. Ihre Bedeutung in der Geistesgeschichte Koreas
Authors: Kim Jyunghyun
Published: November 2014

Die Nietzsche-Rezeption in Korea, die im Jahre 1920 ihren Anfang nahm, blickt heute auf eine etwa 94-jährige Geschichte zurück. Die Nietzsche-Rezeption in Korea vollzog sich in drei deutlich voneinander verschiedenen Phasen: (1) die Phase der Einführung (1920er bis Ende der 40er Jahre), der Auseinandersetzung mit der sozialphilosophischen Dimension seines Denkens und den zunehmend konfrontativen Auseinandersetzungen zwischen der Machtphilosophie des Faschismus und der Kulturphilosophie des Übermenschen auf der einen und dem produktiven neohumanistischen Diskurs in der Literaturkritik sowie der Geburt der ‚Lebensschule in der Poesie‘ auf der anderen Seite; (2) die Phase der Verbreitung (1950er bis späte 70er Jahre), in welche die zweimaligen Übersetzungsversuche von Nietzsches Werk und der Auftritt des Vulgärnietzscheanismus fallen; (3) die Phase der systematischen Forschung (frühe 1980er Jahre bis heute), in welcher der erneute Versuch einer Übersetzung von Nietzsches Gesamtwerk nach Maßgabe der Edition Nietzsches Werke. Kritische Gesamtausgabe (KGW) unternommen und zugleich die Mannigfaltigkeit und die Reife der Nietzsche-Forschung Koreas sichtbar wurde
What nanotech inventors need to know about trade secrets and the prior user rights defense
Authors: Pham Chinh H. , Garsson Ross Spencer
Published: November 2014

The America Invents Act (AIA) presents new challenges and strategy considerations for nanotechnology inventors and companies that seek to protect their intellectual property in the United States. Among the many notable changes, the AIA expands the “prior user rights” defense to infringement and broadens the classes of patents that are eligible for the new limited prior user rights defense. While this defense is limited in some instances, such as against universities, it could be invaluable in others, such as when a competitor independently discovers and patents the trade secret. In the world of nanotechnology, where inventions and products are increasingly complex, this protection can prove to be vitally important.
Topography, mechanical and tribological
properties of nanocomposite carbon-palladium
films
Authors: Rymarczyk Joanna , Kolodziejczyk Lukasz , Czerwosz Elzbieta
Published: November 2014

In this work, the differences in nanomechanical
properties, topography and morphology of carbonpalladium
(C-Pd) films were studied. These films were prepared
with a Physical Vapour Deposition method on various
substrates with different technological parameters.
We show that duration of the PVD process is a crucial factor
affecting the palladium content in these films. The differences
in thickness of films depend on the distance between
source boats and substrates. The nanomechanical
properties of C-Pd films were studied with nanoindentation.
Their topography and morphology was ascertained
with Atomic Force Microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy.
It was found that the mechanical properties of
C-Pd films depend on the content of palladium and on
the morphology and topography of these films. The various
types of carbon-palladium films containing palladium
nanograins incorporated in a carbon matrix that were, investigated
in this paper, seem to be promising materials for
numerous applications.
Activation energy of copper-induced thermal degradation of chitosan acetate functional groups
Authors: Mucha Maria , Ksiazek Sylwia , Kaczmarek Halina
Published: November 2014

Thin films of chitosan acetate (CSA)-copper (II) [Cu (II)] complex were prepared by mixing Cu (II) oxide (CuO) nanoparticles in acetic acid solution of chitosan and the casting method. The changes in chemical structure of modified chitosan were confirmed by UV-Vis spectroscopy. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was applied to monitor thermal degradation processes occurring in chitosan and its composites with Cu. The changes in concentration of chitosan functional groups were observed. On a base of the kinetic constants of group thermal degradation at various temperatures, the activation energies for various groups were calculated. It was found that the presence of Cu (II) ions accelerates the thermal degradation of chitosan acetate. The higher the Cu (II) content was in the CSA matrix, the lower was the activation energy.
Existence, uniqueness and anisotropic-decay-caused Lifshitz tails of the integrated density of surface states for random surface models
Authors: Shen Zhongwei
Published: November 2014

The current paper is devoted to the study of existence, uniqueness and Lifshitz tails of the integrated density of surface states (IDSS) for Schrödinger operators with alloy type random surface potentials. We prove the existence and uniqueness of the IDSS for negative energies, which is defined as the thermodynamic limit of the normalized eigenvalue counting functions of localized operators on strips with sections being special cuboids. Under the additional assumption that the single-site impurity potential decays anisotropically, we also prove that the IDSS for negative energies exhibits Lifshitz tails near the bottom of the almost sure spectrum in the following three regimes: the quantum regime, the quantum-classical/classical-quantum regime and the classical regime. We point out that the quantum-classical/classical-quantum regime is new for random surface models.
A sampling theorem for rotation numbers of
linear processes in ℝ2
Authors: Ruffino Paulo R.
Published: November 2014

This is an erratum to
[Random Oper. Stoch. Equ. 8 (2000), no. 2,
175–188], http://dx.doi.org/10.1515/rose.2000.8.2.175.
Science and Military Influences on the Ascent of Aerospace Development in Southern California
Authors: Hollins Hunter
Published: November 2014

While spectator interest got aircraft off the ground, scientific inquiry initially fueled advances in design. But from a very early date, military application was a driving force. The histories of aircraft, the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), and Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) bring to light the relative roles of science and military in the development of aerospace in Southern California.
MRI Helps Depict Clinically Undetectable Risk Factors in Advanced Stage Retinoblastomas
Authors: Galluzzi Paolo , Hadjistilianou Theodora , Cerase Alfonso , Toti Paolo , Leonini Sara , Bracco Sandra , De Francesco Sonia , Galimberti Daniela , Balducci Donatella , Piu Pietro , Monti Lucia , Bellini Matteo , Caini Mauro , Rossi Alessandro
Published: November 2014

This study compared high-resolution MRI with histology in advanced stage retinoblastomas in which ophthalmoscopy and ultrasonography did not give an exhaustive depiction of the tumour and/or its extension.

MRI of orbits and head in 28 retinoblastoma patients (28 eyes) treated with primary enucleation were evaluated. Iris neoangiogenesis, infiltrations of optic nerve, choroid, anterior segment and sclera suspected at MR and histology were compared. Abnormal anterior segment enhancement (AASE) was also correlated with histologically proven infiltrations. Brain images were also evaluated.

Significant values were obtained for: prelaminar optic nerve (ON) sensitivity (0.88), positive predictive value (PPV) (0.75) and negative predictive value (NPV) (0.71); post-laminar ON sensitivity (0.50), specificity (0.83), PPV (0.50) and NPV (0.83); overall choroid sensitivity (0.82), and massive choroid NPV (0.69); scleral specificity (1), and NPV (1). AASE correlated with iris neoangiogenesis in 14 out of 19 eyes, and showed significant values for: overall ON PPV (0.65), prelaminar ON sensitivity (0.65), and PPV (0.61), post-laminar ON NPV (0.64); overall choroid sensitivity (0.77), PPV (0.59) and NPV (0.73); scleral NPV (0.83); anterior segment sensitivity (1), and NPV (1). Odds ratios (OR) and accuracy were significant in scleral and prelaminar optic nerve infiltration. Brain examination was unremarkable in all cases.

High-resolution MRI may add important findings to clinical evaluation of advanced stage retinoblastomas.
Glucagonoma-induced acute heart failure
Authors: Zhang Kun , Lehner Lukas J , Praeger Damaris , Baumann Gert , Knebel Fabian , Quinkler Marcus , Roepke Torsten K
Published: November 2014

Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) represent a broad spectrum of tumours, of which the serotonin-producing carcinoid is the most common and has been shown to cause right ventricular heart failure. However, an association between heart failure and NETs other than carcinoid has not been established so far. In this case report, we describe a 51-year-old patient with a glucagon-producing NET of the pancreas who developed acute heart failure and even cardiogenic shock despite therapy. Heart failure eventually regressed after initialising i.v. treatment with the somatostatin analogue octreotide. Chromogranin A as a tumour marker was shown to be significantly elevated, and it decreased with clinical improvement of the patient. The effects of long-time stimulation of glucagon on the myocardium have not been studied yet; however, sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium leak can be discussed as a possible mechanism for glucagon-induced heart failure.

Learning points

Glucagonoma can be a cause for heart failure.

i.v. infusion of octreotide can be successfully used to treat glucagonoma-induced acute heart failure.

We suggest that cardiac function should be monitored in all NET patients.
A Case of Heyde Syndrome: Resolution Following Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Taguchi Takahiro , Watanabe Masazumi , Watadani Keisuke , Katayama Keijiro , Takahashi Shinya , Takasaki Taiichi , Kurosaki Tatsuya , Imai Katsuhiko , Sueda Taijiro
Published: November 2014

Heyde syndrome is a triad of aortic stenosis, acquired coagulopathy, and anemia due to bleeding from intestinal angiodysplasia. Here we describe a case of this syndrome. An 80-year-old woman with severe aortic stenosis was referred to our department for an aortic valve replacement. She suffered from recurrent iron-deficiency anemia and required transfusions every 2 weeks. Gastroscopy and colonoscopy were normal with the exception of angiodysplasia without bleeding in the cecum. After aortic valve replacement her anemia was resolved. She was discharged on postoperative day 22. No transfusions were needed after the procedure. To date, her hemoglobin has remained stable at >10 mg/dL.
Cobalamin C Deficiency in an Adolescent With Altered Mental Status and Anorexia
Authors: Rahmandar Maria H. , Bawcom Amanda , Romano Mary E. , Hamid Rizwan
Published: November 2014

Although cobalamin (cbl) C deficiency is the most common inherited disorder of vitamin B12 metabolism, the late-onset form of the disease can be difficult to recognize because it has a broad phenotypic spectrum. In this report, we describe an adolescent female exposed to unknown illicit substances and sexual abuse who presented with psychosis, anorexia, seizures, and ataxia. The patient’s diagnosis was delayed until a metabolic workup was initiated, revealing hyperhomocysteinemia, low normal plasma methionine, and methylmalonic aciduria. Ultimately, cblC deficiency was confirmed when molecular testing showed compound heterozygosity for mutations (c.271dupA and c.482G>A) in the MMACHC gene. This diagnosis led to appropriate treatment with hydroxocobalamin, betaine, and folate, which resulted in improvement of her clinical symptoms and laboratory values. This patient demonstrates a previously unrecognized presentation of late-onset cblC deficiency. Although neuropsychiatric symptoms are common in late-onset disease, seizures and cerebellar involvement are not. Furthermore, anorexia has not been previously described in these patients. This case emphasizes that inborn errors of metabolism should be part of the differential diagnosis for a teenager presenting with altered mental status, especially when the diagnosis is challenging or neurologic symptoms are unexplained. Correct diagnosis of this condition is important because treatment is available and can result in clinical improvement.1
Parent-Implemented Social Intervention for Toddlers With Autism: An RCT
Authors: Wetherby Amy M. , Guthrie Whitney , Woods Juliann , Schatschneider Christopher , Holland Renee D. , Morgan Lindee , Lord Catherine
Published: November 2014

OBJECTIVES:

To compare the effects of two 9-month parent-implemented interventions within the Early Social Interaction (ESI) Project. Both individual-ESI, offered 2 or 3 times per week at home or in the community, and group-ESI, offered once per week in a clinic, taught parents how to embed strategies to support social communication throughout everyday activities.

METHODS:

Participants in the randomized controlled trial included 82 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at 16 to 20 months. Children were matched on pretreatment nonverbal developmental level and pairs were randomly assigned to treatment condition. Child outcomes included measures of social communication, autism symptoms, adaptive behavior, and developmental level. Child outcomes are reported from baseline to the end of the 9-month interventions.

RESULTS:

Children in individual-ESI showed differential change on a standardized examiner-administered observational measure of social communication, as they improved at a faster rate than children in group-ESI. Individual-ESI also showed differential efficacy on a parent report measure of communication, daily living, and social skills, as they showed improvement or stability, whereas group-ESI led to worsening or no significant change on these skills. Finally, individual-ESI showed differential change on examiner-administered measures of receptive language skills, as children in individual-ESI improved significantly, whereas group-ESI showed no change.

CONCLUSIONS:

These findings support the efficacy of individual-ESI compared with group-ESI on child outcomes, suggesting the importance of individualized parent coaching in natural environments. The efficacy of a parent-implemented intervention using little professional time has potential for community viability, which is particularly important in light of the lack of main effects on child outcomes of most other parent-implemented interventions.
Ablative Fractional Laser Resurfacing Helps Treat Restrictive Pediatric Scar Contractures
Authors: Krakowski Andrew C. , Goldenberg Alina , Eichenfield Lawrence F. , Murray Jill-Peck , Shumaker Peter R.
Published: November 2014

Conventional management of debilitating pediatric scar contractures, including hand therapy and surgery, may often be beset by delayed treatment, suboptimal results, and additional surgical morbidity. Ablative fractional laser resurfacing is an emerging adjunctive procedural option for scar contractures because of its promising efficacy and safety profile. However, its use to improve function has not been studied in the pediatric population. Herein we report 2 pediatric patients with recalcitrant scar contractures, causing persistent functional deficits, treated with an ablative fractional laser protocol. Both patients experienced rapid and cumulative subjective and objective improvements in range of motion and function as measured by an independent occupational therapist without reported complications. We highlight ablative fractional laser resurfacing as a novel and promising tool in the management of function-limiting scar contractures in children and propose that the technique be incorporated into existing scar treatment paradigms, guided by future research.
Improved metastability and performance of amorphous silicon solar cells
Authors: Matsui Takuya , Bidiville Adrien , Sai Hitoshi , Suezaki Takashi , Matsumoto Mitsuhiro , Saito Kimihiko , Yoshida Isao , Kondo Michio
Published: November 2014

We show that high-efficiency and low-degradation hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) p-i-n solar cells can be obtained by depositing absorber layers in a triode-type plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) process. Although the deposition rate is relatively low (0.01-0.03 nm/s) compared to the conventional diode-type PECVD process (∼0.2 nm/s), the light-induced degradation in conversion efficiency of single-junction solar cell is substantially reduced (Δη/ηini∼10%) due to the suppression of light-induced metastable defects in the a-Si:H absorber layer. So far, we have attained an independently-confirmed stabilized efficiency of 10.11% for a 220-nm-thick a-Si:H solar cell which was light soaked under 1 sun illumination for 1000 hours at cell temperature of 50°C. We further demonstrate that stabilized efficiencies as high as 10% can be maintained even when the solar cell is thickened to >300 nm.
In-situ Pair Distribution Function Study of the Growth of Supported Platinum Particles in Zeolite X
Authors: Gámez Liliana M. , Resto Oscar , Martinez-Inesta Maria M.
Published: November 2014

Platinum particles supported in zeolites are used as catalysts for hydrogenation/ dehydrogenation reactions. In this study in situ high energy synchrotron X-ray diffraction was used to study the Pt particle formation under calcination and reduction conditions using time resolved pair distribution function (PDF). Because these particles grow inside the pores of zeolite X, PDF is able to give insight to unique information at the short and medium interatomic distance range that cannot be readily obtained with other techniques. Among the information obtained are the Pt atom interactions during calcination and the evolvement of the Pt particle sizes and average Pt-Pt distances during reduction.
Analysis of Shale Gas Exploration and Production Regulations - Lessons from Poland, Canada and the US
Authors: Gapys Anna
Published: November 2014

The aim of this paper is to review the theoretical and practical aspects of regulations concerning the exploitation of natural resources. Raw material policy is a public project, and therefore a decision tool known as Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA) should be applied.  A nation's ownership of minerals is in practice frequently contested. Non-democratic governments have very often sought to collect revenues from natural resource exports in order to build their private fortunes. Such abuses are observed even today. The article begins with a short theoretical discussion about CBA. It then presents the issue of ownership of natural resources from the perspective of international law as well as the phenomenon of resource nationalism. The following section looks at the policy of granting concessions, a common tool used in regulating access to raw materials for exploration and production (E&P) companies. The empirical part of the paper analyses shale gas regulations in Poland, while also examining both the restrictiveness of rules adopted in this country and the legal preparedness of the Polish authorities to begin to use shale gas on a mass scale. Key findings of this part are enhanced with lessons from shale gas production in the US and Canada.
Perdas dentárias no Brasil: análise da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde Bucal 2010
Authors: Peres Marco Aurélio , Barbato Paulo Roberto , Reis Sandra Cristina Guimarães Bahia , Freitas Cláudia Helena Soares de Morais , Antunes José Leopoldo Ferreira
Published: November 2014

OBJETIVO: Analisar a perda dentária com base em estimativas do número médio de dentes perdidos, prevalência de ausência de dentição funcional e edentulismo em adolescentes, adultos e idosos brasileiros, comparando-a com resultados de 2003. MÉTODOS: Os dados referem-se à Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde Bucal (SBBrasil 2010): adolescentes de 15 a 19 anos (n = 5.445), adultos entre 35 e 44 anos (n = 9.779) e idosos entre 65 e 74 anos (n = 7.619). O número de dentes perdidos, a prevalência de indivíduos sem dentição funcional (< 21 dentes naturais) e de edentulismo (perda total dos dentes) foram estimados para cada grupo etário, capitais e macrorregiões brasileiras. Foram realizadas análises de regressão logística (perdas dentárias) e de Poisson (ausência de dentição funcional e edentulismo) multivariáveis para identificar fatores socioeconômicos e demográficos associados a cada desfecho. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de perdas dentárias entre adolescentes foi de 17,4% (38,9% em 2002-3), variando de 8,1% entre os estratos de maior renda a quase 30% entre os menos escolarizados. Entre adolescentes, as mulheres, pardos e pretos, os de menor renda e escolaridade apresentaram maiores prevalências de perdas. Ausência de dentição funcional ocorreu em aproximadamente ¼ dos adultos, sendo superior nas mulheres, nos pretos e pardos, nos de menor renda e escolaridade. A média de dentes perdidos em adultos declinou de 13,5 em 2002-3 para 7,4 em 2010. Mais da metade da população idosa é edêntula (similar em 2002-3); maiores prevalências de edentulismo em idosos foram observadas em mulheres, nos de menores renda e escolaridade. A média de dentes perdidos em adolescentes variou de 0,1 (Curitiba e Vitória) a 1,2 (interior da região Norte). Entre adultos, a menor média encontrada foi 4,2 (Vitória) e a maior 13,6 (Rio Branco). CONCLUSÕES: Houve importante redução nas perdas dentárias em adolescentes e adultos em comparação com dados de 2003, mas não entre os idosos. As perdas dentárias apresentam marcadas desigualdades sociais e regionais.
Prevalência e extensão da cárie dentária radicular em adultos e idosos brasileiros
Authors: Marques Regina Auxiliadora de Amorim , Antunes José Leopoldo Ferreira , Sousa Maria da Luz Rosário , Peres Marco Aurélio , Frazão Paulo
Published: November 2014

OBJETIVO: Estimar a prevalência e a extensão da cárie radicular na população adulta e idosa do Brasil. MÉTODOS: A partir dos dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde Bucal (SBBrasil 2010) foram examinados 9.564 adultos e 7.509 idosos em domicílios das 26 capitais e no Distrito Federal e de 150 municípios do interior de cada macrorregião. Adotaram-se os critérios de diagnóstico preconizados pela Organização Mundial da Saúde. Para estudo da prevalência e de extensão utilizou-se o índice de cárie radicular e o índice de raízes cariadas e obturadas. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de cárie radicular foi de 16,7% nos adultos e 13,6% nos idosos; o índice de raízes cariadas e obturadas foi de 0,42 e 0,32, respectivamente, a maior parte composta por cárie não tratada. Observaram-se diferenças na experiência de cárie radicular entre capitais e macrorregiões, com valores maiores em capitais do Norte e Nordeste. O índice de cárie radicular nos adultos variou de 1,4% em Aracaju (SE) a 15,1% em Salvador (BA) e nos idosos de 3,5% em Porto Velho (RO) a 29,9% em Palmas (TO). Verificou-se incremento da cárie radicular com a idade e maior expressividade da doença em homens de ambos os grupos etários. CONCLUSÕES: Identificou-se uma grande variação da prevalência e extensão da cárie radicular entre e dentro das regiões do Brasil, tanto em adultos quanto em idosos, e a maior parte da cárie radicular encontra-se não tratada. Recomenda-se a incorporação deste agravo ao sistema de vigilância em saúde bucal, devido à sua tendência crescente.
Chinese-Speaking Learners' Cognitive Comprehension Problems with English Video-Based Materials
Authors: Lin Lu-Fang
Published: November 2014

This study surveyed the problems 213 university students confronted while viewing an online video-based English program. Data were collected through self-reports and one-to-one interviews. The content analysis approach was used. Totally, 18 problems were identified and categorized into three cognitive-processing stages: perception, parsing, and utilization. Percentages for each problem were calculated for the whole group and for the three English proficiency groups. The whole group results indicated that most comprehension problems occurred at the perception stage, and that the most common perception problem was that the speech rate was too fast. The most common parsing problem was that the participants failed to form a mental representation of what they had heard or read, while the most common utilization problem was that they could not assign the intended meanings to words. Each proficiency group's problems at the three cognitive stages were interpreted. Instructional recommendations to enhance learners' video comprehension are presented.
Examining the Effects of Learning Styles, Epistemic Beliefs and the Computational Experiment Methodology on Learners' Performance Using the Easy Java Simulator Tool in Stem Disciplines
Authors: Psycharis Sarantos , Botsari Evanthia , Chatzarakis George
Published: November 2014

Learning styles are increasingly being integrated into computational-enhanced earning environments and a great deal of recent research work is taking place in this area. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of the computational experiment approach, learning styles, epistemic beliefs, and engagement with the inquiry process on the learning performance of pre-service engineering students. The study used the Felder-Silverman learning style model (FSLSM), in order to provide information for the relation of FSLSM with the learning environment in order to examine whether the strength of learning styles has an effect on the students' learning performance in mismatched courses. Our objective was: a) to investigate whether students with a strong preference for a specific learning style have more difficulties in learning, if their learning style is not supported in the learning environment; b) if the methodology of the computational experiment has an impact on students independently of their learning style; and c) if the epistemological beliefs are related to different learning styles. The learning environment was based on the methodology of the computational experiment and applications were developed using the Easy Java Simulator software, while the inquiry based teaching and learning process was adopted. The questionnaire responses were gathered from 79 pre-service engineering students in a higher education institute in Greece. Results indicate that students with no preferred learning style have a better learning performance in mismatched courses.
Effects of CaO, MgO, Al2O3 and SiO2 on the carbothermic reduction of synthetic FeCr2O4
Authors: Wang Y. , Wang L. , Chou K.C.
Published: November 2014

In order to optimize the current reduction process of chromite, a good
knowledge of reduction mechanism involved is required. The basic component in
chromite ore is FeCr2O4 with gangue component like MgO and Al2O3. In lack of
clear and consistent explanation about the effect of addition on the
reduction of FeCr2O4, investigation of synthetic FeCr2O4 with different kind
and amount of additions was carried out at 1673K under isothermal mode.
Kinetic mechanism was also studied by linear fitting of different kinetic
equations. Combined with rate-controlling step, it could be concluded as
follows. CaO could enhance the reduction because Ca2+ would replace Fe2+,
thus facilitated the ion diffusion in solid phase. Al2O3 had a positive
influence as well, since Al3+ could form a solid solution phase with Cr3+ and
made Cr3+ reduced more easily. MgO would hinder the reduction due to
formation of a more stable phase MgCr2O4. SiO2 would also hamper the Cr
metallization because there was a liquid phase formed when Cr3+ was reduced
to divalent, which would impede the nucleation of reduction product.
Influence of diabetes mellitus on corneal thickness
Authors: Sencanic Ivan , Stamenkovic Miroslav , Jovanovic Vesna , Babovic Sinisa , Jaksic Vesna , Markovic Petar
Published: November 2014

Introduction. Ultrastructural changes in corneas of patients with diabetes
mellitus have been previously described. Objective. The aim of this study was
to compare central corneal thickness (CDR) values in diabetic patients
without retinopathy at the stage of diabetic nonproliferative and
proliferative retinopathy and CDR in a control group of healthy subjects.
Methods. The study included 121 diabetic patients and 125 healthy subjects
matched according to gender and age. Each patient underwent ophthalmological
examination involving a dilated fundus examination and CDR measurement using
the ultrasound pachymeter. The eyes of diabetic patients were classified
according to Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study into three groups:
without diabetic retinopathy (NDR), with nonproliferative diabetic
retinopathy (NPDR) and a group with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).
Only one eye of each subject was chosen for the study. Results. The mean CDR
value was significantly higher in the diabetic group (570.52?31.81 ?m)
compared with the control group (541.42?27.82 ?m). The difference between the
two groups was statistically significant (p<0.0001). The highest mean CDR
value was recorded in the PDR group (585.97?28.58 ?m), followed by the NPDR
group (570.84?30.27 ?m), whereas the lowest mean CDR value was recorded in
the NDR group (559.80?31.55 ?m). There was a statistically significant
difference in CDR between the NDR and PDR groups, as well as between the NPDR
and PDR groups (p<0.001, p<0.05 respectively). No significant difference was
recorded between the NDR and NPDR groups (p>0.05). Conclusion. CDR of
diabetic patients was higher compared to healthy subjects. The highest mean
value of CDR was registered in the PDR group, followed by the NPDR and the
NDR groups.
Improvement of sexual function in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia by pharmacologic therapy
Authors: Stojanovic Nebojsa , Bogdanovic Dragan
Published: November 2014

Introduction. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) causes disorders of voiding
and sexual function. Pharmacologic therapy reduces symptoms of voiding thus
impacting sexual function. Objective. To determine sex life status in men
with BPH before and after pharmacologic treatment adapted to achieve
satisfactory sexual function. Methods. We studied 117 sexually active BPH
patients, not previously treated for BPH. After clinical examinations,
symptoms of voiding, sexual and ejaculatory function were measured using
standardized IPSS, IIEF and MSHQ-EjD questionnaires. After obtaining
patients? personal opinion about the importance of their sex life, therapy
was chosen and possible side effects explained. Three groups of 39 patients
each were formed. The first group was treated with alpha-blocker, tamsulosin,
the second with 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, finasteride, while the third
group was administered a combination therapy. The complete examination
procedure was repeated after 3 and 6 months of therapy. Results. The average
age of patients was 61.34?3.04 years. Eighty-seven percent reported that
their sex life was important to a certain degree. Satisfaction with their sex
life was reported by 47% of patients before treatment and by 67% of
respondents 6 months after treatment. Questionnaire scores indicated general
improvement of sexual function in all groups, which was statistically
significant compared to baseline only in the group on tamsulosin
alpha-blocker (2.95?7.81; p=0.028). The overall satisfaction with sex life as
a component of sexual function, improved significantly in the group on the
combined therapy (0.78?1.81; p=0.012). Conclusion. Before BPH treatment
sexual function should be assessed and therapy customized to the patient?s
expectations. Side effects of drugs should be presented especially to
patients who emphasize the importance of sex life. In the manifested stages
of the disease overall satisfaction with sex life may be improved by combined
therapy comprising 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and third generation alpha
blockers. In earlier stages, BPH alpha blockers monotherapy may improve
overall sexual function.
A rare case of isolated adrenal metastasis of invasive ductal breast carcinoma
Authors: Andjelic-Dekic Natasa , Bozovic-Spasojevic Ivana , Milosevic Snezana , Matijasevic Miodrag , Karadzic Katarina
Published: November 2014

Introduction. Isolated adrenal metastases of invasive ductal breast carcinoma
are extremely rare. We report a case with isolated left adrenal metastases,
verified three years after diagnosed breast carcinoma. Case Outline. A
58-year-old female patient with a right breast tumor, clinically staged as
IIIA (T2N2M0) started neoadjuvant anthracycline chemotherapy after biopsy
which revealed invasive ductal breast carcinoma. Immunohistochemical findings
of tumor biopsy showed hormonal steroid receptors for estrogen and
progesterone negative, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)
positive. After 4 cycles of chemotherapy and partial tumor regression the
patient underwent radical mastectomy. Definite histopathological analysis
confirmed the diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma. The patient continued
treatment with adjuvant chemotherapy to cumulative dose of anthracyclines,
postoperative radiotherapy and adjuvant trastuzumab for one year. Three years
later abdominal computerized tomography showed tumor in the left adrenal
gland as the only metastatic site. Left adrenalectomy was performed and
histopathological finding confirmed breast cancer metastases.
Postoperatively, the patient received 6 cycles of docetaxel with trastuzumab
and continued trastuzumab until disease progression. One year after left
adrenalectomy control abdominal computerized tomography showed a right
adrenal tumor with retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy. Treatment with
capecitabine was continued for one year, but eventually she developed brain
metastasis causing lethal outcome. Conclusion. In order to better understand
metastatic pathways of invasive ductal breast carcinoma, publications of
individual patient cases diagnosed with rare metastatic sites should be
encouraged. This might improve our understanding of metastatic behavior of
breast cancer and stimulate further clinical research.
Investigating the Benefits of Participatory Action Research for Environmental Education
Authors: Bywater Krista
Published: November 2014

Environmental education (EE) continues to focus on enhancing people's ecological knowledge to encourage sustainable actions. This deficit approach presumes that once informed about environmental harms, people will work towards sustainable solutions for healthy societies. Yet research overwhelmingly demonstrates that knowledge of environmental problems is insufficient to spur pro-environmental behaviors. Traditional EE, therefore, has largely been unsuccessful at achieving its goals of engendering environmentally friendly practices and institutions. This article investigates the pedagogical efficacy of a participatory action research (PAR) project for enhancing environmental education in college courses. Qualitative evidence indicates that a PAR project incorporated into an Environmental Sociology course helped students understand how their everyday activities (in particular the consumption of bottled water) exacerbate poor human and environmental health, increased their environmental consciousness, and encouraged them to adopt pro-environmental behaviors and promote sustainability initiatives on campus. Based on these outcomes, the author recommends expanding educational policy to include a description of pedagogical methods such as PAR that successfully operationalize the goals of EE. Policy reforms should encourage educators to incorporate participatory, action-oriented learning opportunities that enable students to apply their knowledge to improve real-world environmental problems.
Experiencing your own orthognathic surgery: A personal case report
Authors: Mensink Gertjan , Gooris Peter , Mulder Florine , Gooris-Kuipers Christel , van Merkesteyn Richard
Published: November 2014

There has been much research on minimizing the side effects of orthognathic surgery. However, there are very few doctors and researchers who themselves have undergone this surgery. This case report describes the findings of a maxillofacial surgeon who underwent combined orthodontic and orthognathic treatment for correction of Class II malocclusion. In March 2012, the surgeon was referred to an orthodontist, and an orthodontic examination revealed a Class II, division 2, malocclusion with a traumatic palatal bite and attrition of the lower front teeth. The patient underwent alignment of the upper and lower arches, followed by a bilateral sagittal split osteotomy. During this treatment, he made many interesting observations and learned much as a patient, which can have implications in improving the outcomes and quality of care for patients receiving such treatment. Thus, this case report aims to provide a critical perspective of the surgical procedure and treatment from the viewpoint of a maxillofacial surgeon who himself experienced the surgery as a patient.