bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circulating Tumor DNA Is Effective for the Detection of EGFR Mutation in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Qiu Mantang , Wang Jie , Xu Youtao , Ding Xiangxiang , Li Ming , Jiang Feng , Xu Lin , Yin Rong
Published: October 2014

Background: Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has offered a minimally invasive and feasible approach for detection of EGFR mutation for non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This meta-analysis was designed to investigate the diagnostic value of ctDNA, compared with current “gold standard,” tumor tissues.

Methods: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science to identify eligible studies that reported the sensitivity and specificity of ctDNA for detection of EGFR mutation status in NSCLC. Eligible studies were pooled to calculate the pooled sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR). The summary ROC curve (SROC) and area under SROC (AUSROC) were used to evaluate the overall diagnostic performance.

Results: Twenty-seven eligible studies involving 3,110 participants were included and analyzed in our meta-analysis, and most studies were conducted among Asian population. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and DOR were 0.620 [95% confidence intervals (CI), 0.513–0.716), 0.959 (95% CI, 0.929–0.977), and 38.270 (95% CI, 21.090–69.444), respectively. The AUSROC was 0.91 (95% CI, 0.89–0.94), indicating the high diagnostic performance of ctDNA.

Conclusion: ctDNA is a highly specific and effective biomarker for the detection of EGFR mutation status.

Impact: ctDNA analysis will be a key part of personalized cancer therapy of NSCLC. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 24(1); 206–12. ©2014 AACR.
A Phase II, Randomized, Study of Weekly APG101+Reirradiation versus Reirradiation in Progressive Glioblastoma
Authors: Wick Wolfgang , Fricke Harald , Junge Klaus , Kobyakov Grigory , Martens Tobias , Heese Oliver , Wiestler Benedikt , Schliesser Maximilian G. , von Deimling Andreas , Pichler Josef , Vetlova Elena , Harting Inga , Debus Jürgen , Hartmann Christian , Kunz Claudia , Platten Michael , Bendszus Martin , Combs Stephanie E.
Published: October 2014

Purpose: Preclinical data indicate anti-invasive activity of APG101, a CD95 ligand (CD95L)–binding fusion protein, in glioblastoma.

Experimental Design: Patients (N = 91) with glioblastoma at first or second progression were randomized 1:2 between second radiotherapy (rRT; 36 Gy; five times 2 Gy per week) or rRT+APG101 (400 mg weekly i.v.). Patient characteristics [N = 84 (26 patients rRT, 58 patients rRT+APG101)] were balanced.

Results: Progression-free survival at 6 months (PFS-6) rates were 3.8% [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.1–19.6] for rRT and 20.7% (95% CI, 11.2–33.4) for rRT+APG101 (P = 0.048). Median PFS was 2.5 (95% CI, 2.3–3.8) months and 4.5 (95% CI, 3.7–5.4) months with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.49 (95% CI, 0.27–0.88; P = 0.0162) adjusted for tumor size. Cox regression analysis adjusted for tumor size revealed a HR of 0.60 (95% CI, 0.36–1.01; P = 0.0559) for rRT+APG101 for death of any cause. Lower methylation levels at CpG2 in the CD95L promoter in the tumor conferred a stronger risk reduction (HR, 0.19; 95% CI, 0.06–0.58) for treatment with APG101, suggesting a potential biomarker.

Conclusions: CD95 pathway inhibition in combination with rRT is an innovative concept with clinical efficacy. It warrants further clinical development. CD95L promoter methylation in the tumor may be developed as a biomarker. Clin Cancer Res; 20(24); 6304–13. ©2014 AACR.
Haemostatic alterations induced by treatment with asparaginases and clinical consequences
Authors: Za Tommaso , Ciminello Angela , Betti Silvia , Rossi Elena , Stefano Valerio De
Published: October 2014

The benefit of asparaginase for treating acute lymphoid leukaemia (ALL) has been well established. Native asparaginase derives from Escherichia coli (colaspase) or Erwinia chrysanthemi (crisantaspase); in a third preparation, colaspase is pegylated. Depletion of asparagine leads to decreased synthesis of procoagulant, anticoagulant, and fibrinolytic proteins, with resultant hypercoagulability and greater risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Colaspase and crisantaspase are not dose-equivalent, with crisantaspase displaying haemostatic toxicity only at dosages much higher and administered more frequently than those of colaspase. Cerebral venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism are two life-endangering manifestations that occur during treatment with asparaginase particularly in children and in adults with ALL, respectively. Approximately one-third of VTEs are located in the upper extremities and are central venous line-related. Other risk factors are longer duration of asparaginase treatment and concomitant use of prednisone, anthracyclines, and oral contraceptives. The risk associated with inherited thrombophilia is uncertain but is clearly enhanced by other risk factors or by the use of prednisone. VTE prevention with fresh frozen plasma is not recommended; the efficacy of antithrombin (AT) concentrates has occasionally been reported, but these reports should be confirmed by proper studies, and AT should not be routinely employed. Therapeutic or prophylactic heparin doses are only partially effective, and direct thrombin or factor Xa inhibitors could play significant roles in the near future.
Taxonomy of Atlantic Central African orchids 3. A new species of Bulbophyllum Thouars (Orchidaceae) from the Monts de Cristal, Gabon
Authors: Stévart Tariq , Biteau Jean Philippe , Cawoy Valérie , Droissart Vincent
Published: October 2014

Two specimens of an apparently new Bulbophylum species were found in the Monts de Cristal, Gabon. They have a unique leaf shape among the species of this genus in Continental Africa. The flower shares the general morphology of Bulbophyllum saltatorium, one of the most common members of Bulbophyllum in Central Africa. Eight other taxa of the Continental African Bulbophyllum possess unifoliate pseudobulbs and long hairs on the lip. Comparison with them indicates that the new collections from Gabon represent a distinctive species, not yet known in the genus. We describe it here as Bulbophyllum pauwelsianum. The distinguishing features of the species include its leaves, which are pendant, coriaceous, linear, semiterete and v-shaped in transverse section, and its sepals, which possess relatively long hairs on their margins. A table of the taxonomic treatments of the nine Continental African Bulbophyllum taxa considered here is included. A taxonomic key and a table of the diagnostic characters of these nine taxa are given to facilitate identification. The new species is restricted to lowland forests of the Monts de Cristal in Gabon. A preliminary assessment of the conservation status, using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria is provided.
Hemimycena longipleurocystidiata (Mycenaceae, Agaricomycetes), a new species from the Argentinean Atlantic Forest
Authors: Niveiro Nicolás , Popoff Orlando Fabian , Albertó Edgardo
Published: October 2014

The Atlantic Forest is the second largest South American tropical-subtropical rainforest and one of the most diverse ecosystems on earth. Hemimycena longipleurocystidiata, a fungal species collected in the Argentinean Atlantic forest, is proposed as new. It is characterized by its whitish and large basidiomata with large pleuro- and cheilocystidia. The species is here described and illustrated and a key is provided to the Hemimycena species known from Argentina.
Redescriptions of six species of Ilyodromus Sars, 1894 (Crustacea, Ostracoda, Cyprididae) from New Zealand and Eastern Australia
Authors: SHEARN RYLAN , HALSE STUART , KOENDERS ANNETTE , SCHÖN ISA , MARTENS KOEN
Published: October 2014

In this paper, we redescribe six species of the genus Ilyodromus Sars, 1894: I, stanleyanus (King, 1855), I. varrovillius (King, 1855), I. smaragdinus Sars, 1894, I. obtusus Sars, 1894, I. substriatus Sars, 1894 and I. viridulus (Brady, 1886) using materials stored in the Oslo museum (Norway) and (re-) described by G.O. Sars.  For each species examined, we have identified a number of additional diagnostic characters to those used by Sars and earlier authors. In particular, the length of setae, claws and segments of the antennule, antenna, sixth limb, and caudal ramus appear to be important for species delineation in the genus, as does the internal structure of the valves.
The host plants of the Telamonini treehoppers (Hemiptera: Membracidae: Smiliinae) and the first diagnoses of nymphs for 14 species
Authors: WALLACE MATTHEW S.
Published: October 2014

Recent research on the treehopper tribe Telamonini has focused on their classification and Nearctic distribution but little has been published on their biology, including detailed information on their host plants as well as data on their nymphal stage. Any studies including host plant data have emphasized adult records (often unreliable due to their movements), largely ignoring the nymphs, which are the predominant feeding stage. This work provides the first comprehensive summary of Telamonini host plants, it documents the first positive identification of the nymphs for several telamonine species (and the genus Helonica), and it provides the first morphological diagnoses for 14 species, thus filling in major gaps in the life history of many species. Host plant records were determined based on accounts in the literature (adults and nymphs), from rearings of nymphs on host plants to the adult stage, and from label data on museum specimens. The Telamonini are known from 22 families, 41 genera, and 80 species of mostly woody, deciduous trees (of which, six species are new host plant records). Nearly half of all telamonines have been collected from more than one plant genus and only 12 species are known from a single host plant species. Telamonine nymphs were reared to the adult stage on 15 plant species. Of 68 telamonine species, 45 have been found on oak (Quercus), and white oak (Q. alba) is the most common telamonine host plant. Telamona monticola has the most recorded host plants with 29. The work includes 23 color illustrations showing both live and preserved nymphs, representing 15 species, all illustrated for the first time (eight are positively identified for the first time). Differences in nymphal morphology among species within Archasia, Glossonotus, Heliria, and Telamona suggest current generic definitions need revision. This study highlights the need for an increased emphasis on nymphal collections when determining treehopper host plants and inferring classifications.
First record of the caridean shrimp genus Bresilia Calman, 1896 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Bresiliidae) from the East Pacific and description of a new species
Authors: HENDRICKX MICHEL E.
Published: October 2014

A new species of Bresilia Calman, 1896, representing the first record of this genus for the East Pacific, is described from deep water off the Pacific coast of Mexico. The new species is close to B. atlantica Calman, 1896, the type species of the genus with which it shares the general shape of the carapace and rostrum, the latter with a reduced number of small dorsal teeth, and the shape and relative size of the first pereiopod. It also shares with B. atlantica a similar antennular peduncle and a distally very wide scaphocerite. The first maxilliped has a long crescent-shaped exopod, without a flagellum and a strongly reduced caridean lobe, two characters found in B. atlantica and in only one other known species of Bresilia, i.e., B. corsicana Forest & Cals, 1977. The new species can be distinguished from the other seven species of Bresilia by the armature of the rostrum (few, very small spines) and a much wider scaphocerite, with an anterior margin twice as wide as the proximal margin.
A new species of Xylota Meigen (Diptera: Syrphidae) from the Far East
Authors: MUTIN VALERII , ICHIGE KATSUYOSHI
Published: October 2014

Xylota danieli Mutin & Ichige spec. nov. is proposed as the new name for Xylota amamiensis Shiraki sensu Mutin & Gilbert (1999), from the Russian Far East and Japan, which is described and figured. New synonymy is proposed for Xylota coquilletti Hervé-Bazin, 1914 (= X. coquilletti amamiensis Shiraki, 1968 syn. nov.; = X. vulgaris Yang & Cheng in Cheng & Yang, 1993 syn. nov.).
An OSSE-Based Evaluation of Hybrid Variational–Ensemble Data Assimilation for the NCEP GFS. Part I: System Description and 3D-Hybrid Results
Authors: Kleist Daryl T. , Ide Kayo
Published: October 2014

An observing system simulation experiment (OSSE) has been carried out to evaluate the impact of a hybrid ensemble–variational data assimilation algorithm for use with the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) global data assimilation system. An OSSE provides a controlled framework for evaluating analysis and forecast errors since a truth is known. In this case, the nature run was generated and provided by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts as part of the international Joint OSSE project. The assimilation and forecast impact studies are carried out using a model that is different than the nature run model, thereby accounting for model error and avoiding issues with the so-called identical-twin experiments.

It is found that the quality of analysis is improved substantially when going from three-dimensional variational data assimilation (3DVar) to a hybrid 3D ensemble–variational (EnVar)-based algorithm. This is especially true in terms of the analysis error reduction for wind and moisture, most notably in the tropics. Forecast impact experiments show that the hybrid-initialized forecasts improve upon the 3DVar-based forecasts for most metrics, lead times, variables, and levels. An additional experiment that utilizes 3DEnVar (100% ensemble) demonstrates that the use of a 25% static error covariance contribution does not alter the quality of hybrid analysis when utilizing the tangent-linear normal mode constraint on the total hybrid increment.
Stable walking of 3D compass-like biped robot with underactuated ankles using discrete transverse linearization
Authors: Tang Chong , Yan Gangfeng , Lin Zhiyun , Wang Zidong , Yi Yang
Published: October 2014

In this study, a walking manner of a spatial compass-like biped robot with underactuated ankles is presented. This biped robot has 3 degrees of freedom with only one actuator. The hip joint is equipped with a constraint mechanism to lock the angle when it retracts to a desired value. With the Poincare shooting method, a limit cycle of 3D walking gait on level ground is obtained. This limit cycle is unstable by checking the Jacobian of the Poincare map. We use this limit cycle as a reference trajectory and then introduce a method based on discrete transverse linearization to transform the reference trajectory tracking problem to a stabilization problem of a discrete periodic linear system. Thus, the classical discrete-time linear quadratic regulator is recalled to solve the stabilization problem. That is, a stable walking control law is obtained for the proposed 3D robot with a constraint mechanism.
Improving the efficiency of an air conditioning system using a fire water tank as thermal accumulator
Authors: Renedo CJ , Ortiz A , Pérez S , Delgado F , Fernández I , Carcedo J
Published: October 2014

This paper studies the substitution of air condensation by water condensation in the chiller of a university building. This building has a surface of about 30,000 m2, is located in a city of the Spanish north coast, and refrigeration is needed for six months a year. In this paper, the novelty lies in the cooling system of the condensation water, since the typical cooling tower is not going to be considered; instead, the domestic cold water consumed in the building would be used to cool the chiller condensing water. As the domestic water consumption in the building is neither constant nor coincident with the cooling requirements of the chiller, the use of the fire water tank as heat storage was proposed. Thus, the chiller is cooled by the water contained in the fire tank and this fire water is then cooled by the domestic water. With this solution, the reduction in the annual energy consumption of the chiller is around 18.6%. The requirements to implement this solution in buildings are: cool water for air conditioning produced in a centralized way, a relatively high building domestic water demand and a building fire water tank.

Practical application:The solution proposed in this paper can contribute to primary energy savings by improving the energy efficiency of HVAC systems. It can be adopted in all buildings that require refrigeration, have a significant consumption of domestic water, and have a water storage tank for fire or other uses. The article includes the preliminary design of a water–water heat exchanger as a possible solution for cooling the chiller, but alternative solutions could be adopted. Finally, a cost-benefit analysis has been performed, showing that the proposed solution is feasible.
Eschatology of the Synoptic Jesus: Based on a Misinterpretation of Otherworld Experiences?
Authors: Schwenke Heiner
Published: October 2014

According to Albert Schweitzer, Jesus of Nazareth adopted the belief of Second Temple Judaism in an earthly resurrection and in a kingdom of God on earth. Thus, Schweitzer was convinced that Jesus went to his death in vain for the coming of these eschatological events. However, he could not make sense of Jesus eschatology. The main objective of this contribution is to explain the supposed eschatological belief of the synoptic Jesus as an understandable misinterpretation of otherworld experiences. This error would not have militated against Jesus being an inspirational model of humanity.
Developing a Nurse‐Delivered Frenulotomy Service
Authors: Rose Katie , Kasbekar Anand V. , Flynn Alison , De Sujata
Published: October 2014

Objectives

Tongue tie (ankyloglossia) describes a short lingual frenulum that can lead to breastfeeding difficulties. It affects between 4% and 10% of infants and can be treated by frenulotomy. We developed a nurse‐delivered frenulotomy service at a tertiary pediatric hospital and audited our results.

Study Design

Observational study.

Setting

Tertiary pediatric hospital.

Subjects and Methods

An outpatient tongue tie clinic was set up by an ear, nose, and throat consultant. Tongue tie division was undertaken using a standard technique without the need for anesthesia or analgesia, as per National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines. Subsequently, a senior nurse was trained to undertake the clinic independently and saw most referrals. Patient satisfaction data were collected via questionnaires.

Results

Referrals to the service increased from 57 (2009) to 296 (2012). Outcome data from outpatient frenulotomy are discussed. Parent satisfaction measures were similar for both nurse‐ and doctor‐delivered treatment. If all frenulotomies were undertaken in nurse‐delivered clinics, a total of £3830 could have been saved in 2012, compared with the cost of doctor‐delivered care.

Conclusion

A nurse‐delivered outpatient frenulotomy service is a safe and cost‐effective method of delivering such care. We have demonstrated reduced costs and reduced waiting times without compromising patient satisfaction or the quality of care provided.
Soothing and Balmy, Cure without Disfigurement
Authors: Xu Jennifer , Shuman Andrew G.
Published: October 2014

One century ago, patients dreaded a diagnosis of head and neck cancer, fearing not only the progression of the disease but also the prospect of surgery. A cadre of charlatans preyed upon these fears to make a profit. We unearth the tale of Benjamin Bye, an Indianapolis doctor peddling the Combination Oil Cure. His collection of creams applied to the face offered unsuspecting patients a painless cure of their head and neck cancer. Bye eventually came under the fire of muckrakers as well as the federal government. Not long thereafter, Bye’s practice was declared fraudulent, and the US Postmaster General refused to send his products. Bye’s story recalls a time in which curative options were few and fear of malignancy was pervasive. Today, as our treatment armamentarium grows, we are reminded to critically assess efficacy, honestly discuss options with patients, and ensure that charlatanism remains a shadow of the past.
Determinants of Declining Wage Mobility in the New Economy
Authors: Maume David J. , Wilson George
Published: October 2014

This study draws from the 1979 and 1997 National Longitudinal Survey to compare patterns of wage mobility among the late boomer and millennial cohorts of young men. Estimating group-based trajectory models, the authors find that fewer men enjoyed rapid wage growth and more men fell into the steady and stagnant wage-trajectory groups. Furthermore, employment patterns in the new economy (e.g., changing employers, more part-time employment, and employment in low-end service occupations) increasingly determine the mobility rates of millennials compared with boomers and are stronger predictors of mobility chances in the millennial cohort than are family background and cognitive skills.
Multi-valued responses of a nonlinear vibro-impact system excited by random narrow-band noise
Authors: Huang Dongmei , Xu Wei , Liu Di , Han Qun
Published: October 2014

We investigate the multi-valued responses of a non-linear vibro-impact oscillator with a one-sided barrier subject to random narrow-band excitation. The frequency response of the system is obtained using the Krylov-Bogoliubov averaging method. Meanwhile, the backbone curve and the critical equation of unstable region are also derived for the deterministic case. Then, the method of moment is applied to obtain the iterative calculation equation for the mean-square response amplitude under the stochastic case. Excitation frequency, nonlinearity intensity, damping parameters, especially the distance between the system’s static equilibrium position and the barrier can lead to triple-valued response under certain case. In some conditions the impact system may have two or four steady-state solutions, which is an interesting phenomenon for impact system. The unstable region is one uniform part while under smaller nonlinearity intensity it is divided into two parts. Moreover, we also find that as random noise intensity increases, the pervasion of the phase trajectories strengthens, and then destroys the topological property of the phase trajectories.
Green Lindsay model on reflection and refraction of p- and SV-waves at interface between solid-liquid media presence in magnetic field and initial stress
Authors: Abo-Dahab SM , Abd-Alla AM
Published: October 2014

In this paper, the reflection and transmission of thermoelastic wave at a solid-liquid interface in presence of initial stress and magnetic field is investigated in context of GL model. After solving the governing equations, we can find the two reflection and refraction coefficients of incident p-(pressure) and SV- (shear vertical) waves in presence of initial stress and magnetic field. The boundary conditions at the interface that: (i) displacement continuity, (ii) vanishing the tangential displacement, (iii) continuity of normal force per unit initial area, (iv) tangential force per unit initial area must vanish, and (v) continuity of temperature is applied. The appropriate expressions to find the amplitude ratios for the two incidence waves (p- and SV-waves) have been obtained. A numerical example is considered for the reflection and transmitted coefficients of the incident waves, in which we study the effect of initial stresses and magnetic field. The results obtained are presented graphically for the effect of magnetic field and initial stress to display the phenomena physical meaning.
A new method for blind separation of nonstationary sources
Authors: Zhang Jie , Gao Hongli , Fu Pan
Published: October 2014

The development of nonstationary signal blind separation, especially an underdetermined mixture of nonstationary sources, has become increasingly important for mechanical multi-fault diagnosis. In this paper, a novel algorithm based on the adaptive parametric time-frequency analysis theory to blindly separate the mixtures of nonstationary sources is presented. The computer simulations illustrate the applicability of our approach, and the performance of the algorithm is successfully tested on the underdetermined blind source separation of five vibration signals of a high speed train from one instantaneous mixture of these signals.
Similar Processes, Divergent Outcomes
Authors: Kuyucu Tuna , Danış Didem
Published: October 2014

The recent literature on neoliberal urban redevelopment is marked by a gap between theory and empirical research. While there exists a lively theoretical debate regarding the context-bound and spatially heterogeneous character of redevelopment, there is less effort to explain the heterogeneity through empirical studies. We argue that we can identify the specific contextual and macro-structural factors producing the “variegated” neoliberal redevelopment trajectories with carefully constructed comparative studies. To this end, we compare divergent redevelopment processes in three secondary Turkish cities. Based on in-depth interviews, close documentary analysis, and descriptive statistics, our research highlights the role of coalitions formed among local elites and their ties with central-state agents in determining how neoliberal transformations take shape. Even in a highly centralized country, such as Turkey, it is the varying capacity of local actors to form collaborative networks that explains why divergent redevelopment outcomes emerge across similar cities.
Research on the indoor environmental properties of Calamus manna rattan cane
Authors: Xu Bin , Liu Xing’e , Lv Huangfei , Tian Genlin , Yan Shumin
Published: October 2014

In this paper, properties, such as colour and gloss, temperature and humidity conditioning and sound absorption of rattan cane were investigated to evaluate suitability of the material for use in interior decoration and furniture applications. The results showed that the chromatic index in both L* a* b* and Munsell colour space range was narrow, producing a colour space that was smaller than for timber. The surface gloss values were found to be bigger in the axial than in the radial direction, with ranges of 3.31–4.33% and 3.01–3.53%, respectively. The logarithm of humidity was represented by a linear equation of temperature T, and the slope of the curve also changed with differing sizes of decorative area. The sound absorption coefficients increased with increasing frequency and material thickness. Rattan showed excellent absorption properties. Therefore, rattan cane is ideally suited for use in interior decoration.
Establishing a Pediatric Registered Dietitian (RD) Residency Program
Authors: Sowa Mary , Steele Caroline
Published: October 2014

The (CNL) Clinical Nutrition and Lactation Department developed a pediatric registered dietitian (RD) residency program designed to provide training for new dietitians or those looking to transition to the area of pediatric nutrition. External funding to support the program was received through private donors. Residency rotations included a variety of specialty areas in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. Curriculum for each specialty area included text and journal references, a slide presentation providing an overview of the area, and a pretest to assess baseline knowledge. During each rotation, the RD resident worked alongside the preceptor and was given opportunities to provide medical nutrition therapy with increasing autonomy. Each specialty rotation ended with a post-test or case study and monthly evaluations were used to review feedback from each preceptor. A pediatric RD residency program is beneficial to both the hospital and the dietetics profession. The organization can train and evaluate an individual for 16 weeks in the clinical setting before potentially hiring. Such a program also fills the need for pediatric training, beyond the clinical internship, for those pursuing a career in pediatric nutrition.
Research on in situ synthesised (Ti,V)C/Fe composite coating by laser cladding
Authors: Zhao G. L. , Zou Y. , Zou Z. D. , Zhang H.
Published: October 2014

Laser cladding is an effective way to improve the wear resistance of mechanical components. In this study, the composite carbide (Ti,V)C reinforced Fe based coating was successfully synthesised by laser cladding the powder mixtures of ferrotitanium, ferrovanadium and graphite. The samples were analysed to assess the microstructure, microhardness and wear properties. Results indicate that high quality composite coating with metallurgical joint to the steel substrate was obtained. During laser cladding processes, it is found that the (Ti,V)C composite particles were in situ synthesised and distributed evenly in the coating. The microhardness and wear properties of the clad coating were improved significantly in comparison to the steel substrate due to the presence of the hard reinforcement (Ti,V)C.
Effect of microstructure and phase of nanostructured YSZ thermal barrier coatings on its thermal shock behaviour
Authors: Pourbafrani M. , Razavi R. Shoja , Bakhshi S. R. , Loghman-Estarki M. R. , Jamali H.
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this work is the evaluation and comparison of plasma sprayed nanostructured 7 wt-% yttria stabilised zirconia (t-7YSZ) with two different sizes and 15YSZ coating with cubic phase (c-15YSZ). To this end, two kinds of 7YSZ nanogranules consisting of agglomerated nanosized particles (40–50 and 90–100 nm respectively) and 15YSZ were plasma sprayed on nickel based superalloy substrates with NiCrAlY as the bond coat. The thermal shock behaviours of all as sprayed thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) were investigated at 1000°C. The results indicated that the thermal cycling lifetime of nanostructured 7YSZ TBCs was longer than that of the nanostructured 15YSZ TBCs due to higher fracture toughness. Moreover, 7YSZ TBC with smaller particle size (labelled as non-commercial 7YSZ) shows better thermal shock resistance than 7YSZ TBC with bigger particle size (labelled as commercial 7YSZ) due to lower elastic modulus and residual stress.
The McGill simulator for endoscopic sinus surgery (MSESS): A validation study
Authors: Varshney Rickul , Frenkiel Saul , Nguyen Lily HP , Young Meredith , Del Maestro Rolando , Zeitouni Anthony , Saad Elias , Funnell W Robert J , Tewfik Marc A ,   National Research Council Canada
Published: October 2014

Background

Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is a technically challenging procedure, associated with a significant risk of complications. Virtual reality simulation has demonstrated benefit in many disciplines as an important educational tool for surgical training. Within the field of rhinology, there is a lack of ESS simulators with appropriate validity evidence supporting their integration into residency education. The objectives of this study are to evaluate the acceptability, perceived realism and benefit of the McGill Simulator for Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (MSESS) among medical students, otolaryngology residents and faculty, and to present evidence supporting its ability to differentiate users based on their level of training through the performance metrics.

Methods

10 medical students, 10 junior residents, 10 senior residents and 3 expert sinus surgeons performed anterior ethmoidectomies, posterior ethmoidectomies and wide sphenoidotomies on the MSESS. Performance metrics related to quality (e.g. percentage of tissue removed), efficiency (e.g. time, path length, bimanual dexterity, etc.) and safety (e.g. contact with no-go zones, maximum applied force, etc.) were calculated. All users completed a post-simulation questionnaire related to realism, usefulness and perceived benefits of training on the MSESS.

Results

The MSESS was found to be realistic and useful for training surgical skills with scores of 7.97 ± 0.29 and 8.57 ± 0.69, respectively on a 10-point rating scale. Most students and residents (29/30) believed that it should be incorporated into their curriculum. There were significant differences between novice surgeons (10 medical students and 10 junior residents) and senior surgeons (10 senior residents and 3 sinus surgeons) in performance metrics related to quality ( p < 0.05), efficiency ( p < 0.01) and safety ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The MSESS demonstrated initial evidence supporting its use for residency education. This simulator may be a potential resource to help fill the void in endoscopic sinus surgery training.
The role of attenuation in 2D full-waveform inversion of shallow-seismic body and Rayleigh waves
Authors: Groos Lisa , Schäfer Martin , Forbriger Thomas , Bohlen Thomas
Published: October 2014

Full-waveform inversion (FWI) of Rayleigh waves is attractive for shallow geotechnical investigations due to the high sensitivity of Rayleigh waves to the S-wave velocity structure of the subsurface. In shallow-seismic field data, the effects of anelastic damping are significant. Dissipation results in a low-pass effect as well as frequency-dependent decay with offset. We found this by comparing recorded waveforms with elastic and viscoelastic wave simulation. The effects of anelastic damping must be considered in FWI of shallow-seismic Rayleigh waves. FWI using elastic simulation of wave propagation failed in synthetic inversion tests in which we tried to reconstruct the S-wave velocity in a viscoelastic model. To overcome this, [Formula: see text]-values can be estimated from the recordings to quantify viscoelasticity. Waveform simulation in the FWI then uses these a priori values when inferring seismic velocities and density. A source-wavelet correction, which is inevitable in FWI of field data, can compensate a significant fraction of the residuals between elastically and viscoelastically simulated data by narrowing the signals’ bandwidth. This way, elastic simulation becomes applicable in FWI of data from anelastic media. This approach, however, was not able to produce a frequency-dependent amplitude decay with offset. Reconstruction, therefore, was more accurate when using appropriate viscoelastic modeling in FWI of shallow-seismic Rayleigh waves. We found this by synthetic inversion tests using elastic forward simulation as well as viscoelastic simulation with different a priori values for [Formula: see text].
Fast multimodel finite-difference controlled-source electromagnetic simulations based on a Schur complement approach
Authors: Jaysaval Piyoosh , Shantsev Daniil , de la Kethulle de Ryhove Sébastien
Published: October 2014

We have developed an efficient numerical scheme for fast multimodel 3D electromagnetic simulations by applying a Schur complement approach to a frequency-domain finite-difference method. The scheme is based on direct solvers and developed with constrained inversion algorithms in view. Such algorithms normally need many forward modeling jobs with different resistivities for the target zone and/or background formation. We geometrically divide the computational domain into two subdomains: an anomalous subdomain, the resistivities of which were permitted to change, and a background subdomain, having fixed resistivities. The system matrix is partially factorized by precomputing a Schur complement to eliminate unknowns associated with the background subdomain. The Schur complement system is then solved to compute fields inside the anomalous subdomain. Finally, the background subdomain fields are computed using inexpensive local substitutions. For each successive simulation, only the relatively small Schur complement system has to be solved, which results in significant computational savings. We applied this approach to two moderately sized 3D problems in marine controlled-source electromagnetic modeling: (1) a deepwater model in which the resistivities of the seawater and the air layer were kept fixed and (2) a model in which focused inversion was performed in a scenario in which the resistivities of the background formation, the air layer, and the seawater were known. We found a significant reduction of the modeling time in inversion that depended on the relative sizes of the constrained and unconstrained volumes: the smaller the unconstrained volume, the larger the savings. Specifically, for a focused inversion of the Troll oil field in the North Sea, the gain amounted up to 80% of the total modeling time.
Evaluation of In-Ground Plastic-Hinge Length and Depth for Piles in Marine Oil Terminals
Authors: Goel Rakesh K.
Published: October 2014

This investigation evaluated the current recommendations for plastic-hinge length and depth for piles in marine oil terminals considering nonlinear pile and soil behavior, as well as two seismic design levels: Level 1 and Level 2. It was found that the plastic-hinge length depends on seismic design level, whereas depth is independent of seismic design level. For pre-stressed concrete piles, the current plastic-hinge length recommendations were generally found to be adequate for seismic design Level 2, but provided much smaller plastic-hinge length for Level 1. For hollow-steel piles, the current plastic-hinge length recommendation was generally found to be adequate for sands, but provided much smaller plastic-hinge length for clays for both seismic design levels. Furthermore, the current recommendations lead to much shallower plastic-hinge depth than that found in this investigation.
Archives of Intimacy and Trauma
Authors: White Melissa Autumn
Published: October 2014

Drawing on interviews with self-identified LGBTQ migrants, lawyers and immigration consultants conducted in Toronto in 2008–09 and 2013, this article explores the affective economies of queer migration governance in the transnational Canadian context. With a specific focus on the extensive paper files queer family class migrants and refugees must produce as part of the application process, the article theorizes these carefully curated documents as archives of intimacy and trauma respectively. These archives of intimacy and trauma are technologies of mobility—not only moving migrants across borders, but also moving emotions between migrants and immigration bureaucrats. In aiming to render their subjects intelligible—and intelligibly desirable—to the state, these curations of ephemeral queer intimacies and trauma simultaneously serve as archives of “affective governance,” powerfully illuminating the affective modes through which bureaucracy, calculability, and biopolitics take hold.
“A Passive Homosexual Element”
Authors: Cowan Ben
Published: October 2014

This essay reflects on archival digitalization and its implications for researchers interested in historicizing queerness. The essay seeks a conversation about how new archival tools boost our access to particular constructions of subjectivity while simultaneously limiting the extent to which we can discern the parameters of queerness. It draws on the author's recent work with archives of several state security agencies from Brazil's military regime (1964–85). The collections have undergone digitalization, such that access is now largely computerized. Finding aids rely not only on archivists' descriptions but on optical character recognition. The essay offers some analysis of the role of identity politics in shaping researchers' frameworks, as well as those of historical subjects, and of what such processes do to the space and practice of the queer archive.
Socio-communicative Function Fashion
Authors: Кошлякова  , Koshlyakova Mariya
Published: October 2014

In terms of the dominance of global processes fashion largely carries out communication between different social groups and cultural communities and is one of the key roles in the system of social communication, and mass media. The work identified a number of socio-communicative functions of fashion. The language of fashion nonverbal, visually oriented, largely symbolic. Expressive means are the fashion color and graphic symbols, and stylistic elements that create often ambiguous meanings and contexts. Fashion communication is presented as a complex associative links, external expressions of social personality characteristics that facilitate communication with other people and at the same time identifying features that differentiate them.
Problems of Measuring Workforce Productivity and Performance
Authors: Одегов  , Odyegov YUriy , Разинов  , Razinov A.
Published: October 2014

Activities of any organization are determined by a set of a range of parameters that are unique for each individual company and aff ect directly or indirectlymanufacture

performance indicators. This article discusses the diff erences between categories of «workforce productivity», «labor productiveness», «performance»,

and «effi ciency»; it analyzes various approaches to these categories depending on the level and measurement tasks. The problem of determining the values of

these parameters is directly related to changes in the external conditions of functioning of organizations, primarily the declining share of human labor in

production of goods and services. This issue acquires particular importance in view of the changes in nature and content of work and the transition to information

society and knowledge economy. According to the authors, an integrated approach is necessary for solving the problem of determining the level of

performance.
Analysis of Organizational Culture of Orenburg Municipal Institution of Supplementary Education “Children and Youth Art Center”
Authors: Сычева  , Sycheva E.
Published: October 2014

This article examines the impact of organizational culture on the internal life of the organization and the success of the organization in the outer sphere. An analysis of key aspects of the organizational culture of municipal institution of further education “Children And Youth Art Center”, Orenburg. The object of the study consists of the following questions of internal organizational culture: analysis of informational and business exchanges among employees; organization of motivational behavior; forms of control, the ratio of regulatory and creative trends in the institution; diagnosis of the social-psychological organizational environment. General analysis of organizational culture showed that in this institution itdoes fruitfully aff ect the institution. Undoubtedly, the experience of managing the institution must be adopted by other institutions in this fi eld.
Human Capital of Transnational Corporations
Authors: Сухов  , Sukhov Andrey
Published: October 2014

The paper examines human capital of transnational corporations (TNC), as being nowadays the basic subjects of global economic relations and the principal elements of the global economy development. Human capital structure of TNCs is considered, specifics of its formation under the conditions of the ongoing process of production and capital transnationalization are featured. The range of TNCs’ businesses and their specific features are outlined, as well as current strategies, applied by modern TNCs, and various ways through which TNCs tap the world market in the context of globalizing world economy. The author reveals the crucial role of TNCs in developing cutting-edge technologies and scientific and technical potential of national economies, which in turn helps to develop and enhance human capital of TNCs and of international human capital as well.
Hungary’s global opening to an interpolar world
Authors: Tarrósy István , Vörös Zoltán
Published: October 2014

This study wishes to contribute to the relatively limited circle of academic publications on Hungary’s foreign policy – in particular, in the second decade of the twenty‑first century. First, it looks at major foreign policy priorities since the change of the political system in 1989 and their maintenance in the country’s external affairs policy agenda, together with the omnipresent desire to get re‑positioned “rightly”, “back” into the international community. The intention of the authors is to investigate the validity and possible execution of a “global opening” in an increasingly “interpolar globality”, and therefore, to provide a detailed analysis of the Hungarian “turn towards to East”. The new foreign policy document of the country contains a re‑positioning of Hungarian presence in five priority regions of the world, among which emphasis has obviously been laid on Central Europe and the Visegrád Group. The paper offers a critical analysis of both the potentials and challenges of the global opening.
The Crisis of the Czech Politics 25 Years after the Velvet Revolution
Authors: Brunclík Miloš , Kubát Michal
Published: October 2014

In terms of political performance the Czech Republic of the 1990s was considered as a very successful post‑communist country. Today’s situation is different. The Czech Republic felt into deep political inefficiency. This paper aims to show the core and causes of the current crisis of the Czech politics. It briefly introduces the rather temporary and circumstantial success of the Czech politics in the 1990s. Then it analyzes the onset of the crisis as well as reasons, which led to a deterioration of the Czech politics at the turn of the 21st century. It recognizes three essential dimensions of the Czech political inefficiency: a crisis of confidence when it comes to politics, a crisis of the Czech party system and the weakness of the Czech parliamentary regime.
Akcja Wyborcza Polaków na Litwie w wyborach na Litwie
Authors: Kazėnas Gediminas
Published: October 2014

Electoral Action of Poles in Lithuania in elections in Lithuania. How Electoral Action of Poles in Lithuania managed to surpass the 5 percent electoral treshold?

Political activity of Poles in Lithuania started around the same time as Lithuanian. The Union of Poles in Lithuania was established at the congress on 15‑16 April, 1989, which transformed the Socio‑Cultural Association of Poles in Lithuania, founded a year earlier – in 1988. In the first parliamentary elections in independent Lithuania, Polish minority was not very active. Looking at the public space, the internal situation in the political elite of the Polish minority in Lithuania and the development of Polish‑Lithuanian relationship as well as election results of AWPL in Lithuania have a noticeable direct relationship. The development of Polish‑Lithuanian relations after the collapse of the Soviet Union can be divided into three stages: 1st from 1990 to 1994, 2nd from 1995 to 2005 period, 3rd from about 2007 to the present time. AWPL is a regional party and its political influence is limited over the whole country. Meanwhile, the party has regionally dominant positions in two municipalities (the Vilnius region and Šalčininkai), and even in the two municipalities (Vilnius city, Trakai) is a influential party. Cooperation of AWPL with Russian parties in Lithuania started already during 1995 elections. Without support of Russian voters and other marginal parties, AWPL would probably not have been able to overcome 5 percent barier for parties in proportional system.