bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Justification of an Increase in the Efficacy of Radiofrequency Systems for Myocardial Ablation
Authors: Evtushenko A.V. , Evtushenko V.V. , Bykov A.N. , Sergeev V.S. , Syryamkin V.I. , Kistenev Yu.V. , Anfinogenova Yana
Published: February 2016

The article presents data on dependence of the myocardial electrical impedance on the temperature. These data have high clinical relevance because radio frequency energy-induced destruction of the myocardium in the course of surgical treatment of cardiac arrhythmias should be performed transmurally. Insufficient transmural myocardial damage results in recurrence of cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, achieving transmural treatments of the myocardium is of high significance.Studies were performed by using 20 isolated hearts. To evaluate the effectiveness of radio frequency exposure, we studied two temperature settings: myocardial normothermia (36.6 °C) and myocardial hypothermia (20 °C). The depth of destruction as well as the temperatures of the epicardial, endocardial, and intramural myocardium at the points of impact were estimated. Data showed that lower temperature decreases tissue electrical impedance and results in a greater depth of damage.
Lead Distribution in Centrifugal-Cast Billets Made of Quinary Tin-Base Bronze Depending on the Mould Spin Rate
Authors: Korchmit Anton Viktorovich , Martyushev Nikita V. , Drozdov Yuriy Yu.
Published: February 2016

The paper is devoted to the analysis of the issues connected with crystallisation of multicomponent bronze during centrifugal casting. Bronze containing tin, lead, zink, nickel, copper has been chosen as a material for study. In the course of the study the spin rate of the mould has been varied. The researches of the structure have shown that during solidification of the cast the quantity of lead increases from the middle part to the inner one, and for high spin rates the difference in lead content in different cross sections of the casting being less noticeable than in case of the low ones. In addition it has been noted that great spin rates of the mould reduce liquating processes and provide a more homogenuous structure of casts.
Thermodynamic Analysis of the Formation of Aluminum and Chrome Halides for Circular Chrome-Aluminizing
Authors: Bakhrunov Konstantin
Published: February 2016

The work presents a thermodynamic analysis assessing the formation of aluminum and chrome halides for diffusion chrome-aluminizing of the surface of nickel heat-proof alloys in activated gases. The author has established chemical reactions that are responsible for the process of circular chrome-aluminizing and the arrangement scheme of initial technological components.
Investigation of Deformation Mechanisms for High-Purity Aluminium at Various Fatigue Stages
Authors: Vaulina O.Yu. , Durnovtseva A.N. , Shvagrukova E.V.
Published: February 2016

The multilevel approach towards the study of a deformable solid considers a determining role in the deformation and failure of coupling factors and the necessity for combined deformation of its surface layers and volume. At high-cycle fatigue under the reverse bending conditions the plastic deformation is practically concentrated on surface layers. The paper presents the mechanisms of fatigue deformation for high-purity aluminium at various fatigue stages.
The Feasibility of Usage TiN and CrN Barrier Sublayers for Improving the Adhesion of Polycrystalline Diamond Films on WC-Co Hard Alloys
Authors: Linnik Stepan A. , Gaydaychuk Alexander V. , Barishnikov Eugene Y.
Published: February 2016

In the present study, the influence of Chromium nitride (CrN) and Titanium nitride (TiN) sublayers on the adhesion of polycrystalline diamond films applied to WC-Co substrates was investigated. CrN and TiN layers were deposited on WC-Co substrates by magnetron sputtering in Ar/N2 atmosphere. Synthesis of diamond films was conducted in an AC abnormal glow discharge CVD reactor. The phase composition of the films was characterized by small-angle X-ray diffraction (XRD). The adhesion of diamond films was compared by analysis of Rockwell indentation imprints. It was found that TiN does not react with the carbon of the diamond film while CrN almost completely converted into chromium carbide (Cr3C2). Adhesion tests showed that the efficiency of these sublayers usage is substantially lower than using a Murakami and HNO3/H2O pretreatment.
The Energy Stored in the Aluminum Nanopowder Irradiated by Electron Beam
Authors: Mostovshchikov Andrei V. , Ilyin Alexander P. , Azanov Alexander A. , Egorov Ivan S.
Published: February 2016

The influence of the electron beam irradiation on the parameters of aluminum nanopowder oxidation by heating in air was studied. It was found that the oxidation starts at the temperature in the range from 410° C to 460° C and independent on the radiation dose. The degree of oxidation varied from 44.4 % to 58.3 % and its dependence on the radiation dose was not established. The heat energy release occurred in two stages: at the first stage (up to ~ 660° C) in general the increase of the thermal effect was observed. At the second oxidation stage of irradiated aluminum nanopowder the growth of the thermal effect also observed. The peak of heat effect achieved by irradiation (45.0 kGy absorbed dose) was 2576 J/g higher than the thermal effect for non-irradiated aluminum nanopowder. The energy stored is an additional motivating factor in the synthesis of composite materials, intermetallic compounds, hydrogen producing reactions and synthesis of various kinds.
Study of the Mechanism of Interaction of Microwave Plasma Discharge with Solutions of Organic Substances
Authors: Shiyan Ludmila N. , Zherlitsyn Alexey G. , Magomadova Seda O. , Lazar Cyril S.
Published: February 2016

This paper reports about results describing the mechanism of oxidation-reduction reactions occurring in the microwave plasma interaction with organic compounds solutions. Air and argon were used as the plasma gases in the experiments on disrupture of aqueous liquid organic compounds. Application of inversible redox indicator of methylene blue (MB) showed that disrupture of organic substances in microwave plasma was based on redox reactions. It was found that MB highest efficiency in the solution took place when air plasma-supporting gas was used.
Study of Destruction of Organic Substances in Water Solutions by Pulsed Electrical Discharges in the Iron Granules Layer
Authors: Lobanova Galina L. , Yurmazova Tatiana , Shiyan Ludmila N. , Magomadova Seda O.
Published: February 2016

The paper reports on the interaction of an electric discharge with solutions of organic substances in the electric reactor with iron loading. A colored water solution of organic substances with well-studied properties such as methylene blue (MB), furatsilin and eosin is used. The chosen organic substances allow to demonstrate the redox reactions, destruction of organic substances and their adsorption. It is found out that the process of direct interaction of organic substances with the discharge is 40%. Efficiency of sorption processes on iron load depends on the properties of the dissolved organic substances and for the MB is 21%, for furatsilin is 42% and for eosin is 63%. Post-effects have been observed after the action of the discharges and have shown activity for 24 hours. The obtained results allow modeling the mechanism of transformation of complex organic compounds e.g. humic substances or oil products.
Influence of the Plasma of Nanosecond Diffuse Discharge in Air at Atmospheric Pressure on the Electrophysical Properties of Epitaxial CdHgTe Films
Authors: Lozovoy K.A. , Grigoryev D.V. , Tarasenko V.F. , Shulepov M.A.
Published: February 2016

In this paper the influence of the volume discharge of nanosecond duration formed in a non-uniform electric field at atmospheric pressure on samples of CdHgTe (MCT) epitaxial films of p-type conductivity is investigated. Measurements of electro-physical parameters of MCT samples after irradiation have shown that a layer exhibiting n-type conductivity is formed in the near-surface area of epitaxial films. After more than 600 pulses of influence parameters and thickness of the resulting n-layer is such that the measured field dependence of Hall coefficient corresponds to the material of n-type conductivity. The obtained results show that application of volume nanosecond discharge in air at atmospheric pressure is promising for the modification of the surface properties of epitaxial films of MCT.
Model of Powder Material Plastic Transformation during Plasma Coating Application
Authors: Bogdanovich Valery I. , Giorbelidze Mikhail G.
Published: February 2016

The process of impact interaction of a powder material particle with sprayed-on surface is described. A mathematical simulation is developed for the process of plastic deformation of a solid-phase particle to a disk-shaped cluster. The paper considers the influence of thermal and kinetic factors on the degree of plastic transformation of a particle.
The Analysis of the Mechanisms for Plasticization of Boron Carbide Ceramics Irradiated by an Intense Electron Beam
Authors: Ivanov Yury F. , Khasanov Oleg L. , Polisadova Valentina V. , Petukevich Мaria S. , Milovanova Tamara V. , Teresov Anton D. , Bikbaeva Zulfa G. , Kalashnikov Mark P. , Bratukhina Anastasia
Published: February 2016

Is has been shown that irradiation of the sintered ceramics on the basis of boron carbide with an intense pulsed electron beam leads to formation of non-porous polycrystalline structure. The specific elements of a sub-grain structure of the irradiated ceramics are micro-twins. It has been determined that the main failure mechanism of the sintered ceramics is an intercrystalline fracture. The irradiation of ceramics has led to mainly transcrystalline fracture.
Structure and Properties of Electron-Beam Coatings, Overlaid of SHS Composite Powders "TiC – Ti", Synthesized in Air
Authors: Krinitcyn Maxim G. , Pribytkov Gennadii A. , Durakov Vasiliy G.
Published: February 2016

A structure of Ti-TiC coatings with different content of titanium binder, overlaid of composite powders, which were obtained by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis, was investigated. The structure was studied by X-ray analysis and metallography. A size of the carbide particles in coatings, hardness of coatings and rate of wear were measured.
Comparative Characteristics of Voltammetric Methods Determination of Platinum in Mineral Raw Materials
Authors: Ustinova Elvira M. , Gorchakov E.V.
Published: February 2016

The technique of platinum (IV) determination in mineral raw materials with the application of stripping voltammetry has been proposed. The authors determined the registration conditions in the determination of the analytical signal Pt (IV): the composition of background electrolyte, the electrolysis potential. The graphite electrode impregnated with polyethylene was used as a working electrode. The use of stripping voltammetry applied to the assessment of the platinum content in geological objects was demonstrated.
Numerical Approach to Solving Problems of Two-Phase Multicomponent Flow in Porous Medium Based on Finite Volume Method
Authors: Dil Denis O. , Bubenchikov Aleksey M.
Published: February 2016

The article describes the numerical approach uniting finite volume method, Newton method and one of the MUSCL-type schemes for convective transport approximation for gas mixture components concentrations displaced by the water out of the porous medium. Numerical and analytical solutions for the case of radial two-dimensional flow of incompressible gas mixture and water have been compared. The obtained results allow considering the offered algorithm to be effective.
Computer-Aided Modelling of a Latch Die Cutting in Deform - 2D Software System
Authors: Zvonov Sergey , Klochkov Yury
Published: February 2016

The article discusses theoretic foundations and parameters of a latch die cutting process modelled in the software system Deform - 2D. The analysis concerns standard methods of latch cutting which causes the excessive edge deformation (over 10% of a sheet thickness) that does not meet the customers' requirements.
Information Technologies in Industrial Enterprises Production Assets Management
Authors: Kovin Roman , Kudinov Anton , Markov Nikolay G. , Miroshnichenko Evgeniy
Published: February 2016

The paper discusses problems of representing information about production assets in databases of information systems in tasks of assets registration and recording. Main approaches of representing asset registration data in a relational database are considered. An improved approach based on inheritance implementation is proposed. Its advantage is good enough flexibility, good performance and reach security. Appraisal information about implementation of proposed solutions in some oil-and-gas enterprises of Western Siberia is given.
Optimal Methods of Segmentation of Tomographic Volume Searching System: A Preliminary Review
Authors: Skirnevskiy Igor , Korovin Aleksandr
Published: February 2016

Recent research studies in the sphere of computer tomography are connected with the task of image analysis. Due to the fact that computed tomography images include artifacts, low contrast and different types of noises, researchers have to deal with a wide range of problems during the processing. There is a wide variety of preliminary processing methods which allow solving these problems. Obviously, the choice of these methods has a major impact on the result [1]. However, algorithm analysis of computed tomography images is not considered in the literature nowadays. This work presents an overview of the implementation approach of these methods.
Integration of Heterogeneous Company Information Resources Using Semantic Technologies
Authors: Chernii A. , Kaida A. , Tuzovskiy A.
Published: February 2016

The article describes the company information ranking and organization system that is under design, the objective of which is a quick search for heterogeneous information objects - people, documents, projects, etc.
Boundary Design of Reflection Properties of a Steady-State Complex Heat Transfer Model
Authors: Chebotarev Alexander Yu. , Kovtanyuk Andrey E.
Published: February 2016

A boundary multiplicative control problem for a nonlinear steady-state heat transfer model accounting for heat radiation effects is considered. The aim of control consists in obtaining a prescribed temperature or radiative intensity distributions in a part of the model domain by controlling the boundary reflectivity. The solvability of this control problem is proved, and optimality conditions are derived.
Formalized Approach in Relational Database Design
Authors: Osipova Victoria V. , Chudinov Igor L. , Seidova Aysel S.
Published: February 2016

Design of the conceptual information domain model is a significant and complicated stage in database development that influences its quality and can be considered as a skill. The suggested approach is based on analysis of attribute domains and relationships between them and uses the relational data model to determine the availability and the type of relationships between model entities.
Discrete-Event Approach to Simulation of Queueing Networks
Authors: Moiseev Alexander , Demin Anton , Dorofeev Vadim , Sorokin Vasily
Published: February 2016

The paper is devoted to basic principles to develop software queueing networks simulations. A mathematical model and general scheme of the queueing network are presented in the paper. Main network components and behavior parameters are described. The application can simulate the networks of rather complex configuration. Software under construction uses a discrete-event approach for the simulation process. Basic algorithm of the simulation is also presented.
Retrospective analysis of patients with carcinoma cervix in a rural/semi-urban setting in Western India
Authors: Singh Ranvijay , Shetty Nishitha , Naveed Maryam , Pawar Suraj , Iska Sindu , Alugubelli Navya
Published: February 2016

Objectives: To compare the presentation of cervical cancer and the treatment modalities received by the patients at a semi-urban/rural area of Western India with that of published literature from urban centers. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with cervical cancer who presented at a semi-urban/rural cancer center between 2010 and 2013. A total of 141 patients with the median age of 51 years (25-81) were studied. The demographic and clinical variables included age, annual family income, profession, comorbidities, baseline hemoglobin, prior screening, clinical stage, treatment administered, and complications. The pathological variables included tumor type and grade. Results: In our study, all patients presented with vaginal bleeding. Majority of the patients (51 patients, 37.7%) had Stage 3B disease. Since majority presented at later stages (Stage 3B), chemotherapy-radiotherapy was the most common treatment modality used in our population. On histopathology, 127 patients (90%) had squamous cell carcinoma while 14 patients (10%) had adenocarcinoma. In 96 patients (68%), the tumor grade was not known while it was a high, intermediate, and low grade in 6 (4%), 18 (13%), and 21 (15%) patients, respectively. The follow-up data of our study were not adequate; hence, the long-term survival results could not be presented. Conclusion: Patients in rural India setting present at later stages which could be improved by creating awareness, improving their personal hygiene, and adequate screening.
Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, management as per risk stratification in a developing country
Authors: Hussain Ansar , Shiekh Aejaz , Bhat Gul , Lone A R
Published: February 2016

Aims: The purpose of this analysis was to address the outcome of GTN from a tertiary care centre of India. Materials and Methods: We undertook a retrospective and prospective review of GTN cases treated at our centre from 2006 to 2014. Patients of GTN were assigned to low-risk or high-risk categories as per the FIGO scoring system. The low-risk group was treated with combination of actinomycin-D and methotrexate (MTX) and the high-risk group received the EMA/CO regimen. Salvage therapy was EP/TP. Treatment was continued for 3 cycles after normalization of β-hCG level, after which the patients were kept on follow-up. Results: In total, 52 GTN patients were treated at our institution during this period; 21 were low-risk and 31 were in the high-risk category. The lung was the most common site of metastasis. All low risk patients achieved complete remission. Among high risk patients one patient died while receiving first cycle chemotherapy, one patient relapsed and 29 patients achieved complete remission. The single relapsed patient also achieved remission with 2nd line chemotherapy. Conclusion: 1. Two drug combination of Actinomycin-D and Methotrexate is a better alternative to single drug chemotherapy especially in developing countries were proper risk stratification is not always possible. 2. Patients with high disease burden should initially be treated with low dose chemotherapy to avoid life threatening visceral haemorrhage.
A report of the frequency of colorectal carcinoma and involved lymph nodes in South-West Iran
Authors: Shahbazian Hodjatollah , Nasuri Yaser , Hosseini Seyed , Arvandi Shoaleh , Razzaghi Samira
Published: February 2016

Context: The colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common malignancy between men and women. CRC has considerable morbidity and mortality, with more than 1000,000 new cases and 500,000 annual deaths. Regional lymph nodes are most common sites of metastasis from colon cancer. Lymph node involvement is an essential factor in enabling the accurate evaluation of prognosis in CRC patients. Aims: In this study, we focused on the frequency of CRC and involved lymph nodes and adequacy of lymph node dissection in patients who referred to the Oncology and Radiotherapy Department of Golestan Hospital in Ahvaz City located in South-West Iran. Setting and Design: We conducted a retrospective study among patients receiving surgical treatment for CRC in the Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy of Golestan Hospital in Ahvaz City located in South-West Iran between 2001 and 2010. Methods and Materials: All patients who underwent resection for CRC by open or laparoscopic approaches were included in the study. Data were collected from patients′ medical records. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical data were analyzed using SPSS 21. Results: A total of 585 cases with CRC aged from16 to 89 years with mean age of 53-year-old were studied. Average number of dissected nodes was 8 lymph nodes, and lymph nodes were not found in pathology specimen of 61 cases (10.4%). In 199 patients (34.01%), number of dissected lymph nodes was 12 or more and in 386 patients (65.98%), number of dissected lymph nodes was <12. Conclusion: This study revealed a large amount of patients that had been under over treatment with radiotherapy and the following inability. Lack of removal of sufficient tissue by the surgeon during surgery or an inadequate sample check by a pathologist might lead to an inability to correct staging of the disease as well as the inability to determine the treatment program of the patients and over treatment with radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Alfabetización mediática e integración social de la población reclusa anciana
Authors: Neira Cruz Xosé Antonio
Published: February 2016

Las cárceles reflejan paulatinamente el proceso de envejecimiento demográfico que vive la sociedad. Sin una consideración específica en el sistema penitenciario vigente, la población reclusa anciana vive un doble ostracismo en el cual, el aislamiento de los medios de comunicación contrasta con un mundo repleto de pantallas, reforzando las dificultades de una futura reinserción social. El proyecto campUSCulturae, coordinado desde la Facultad de Ciencias de la Comunicación de la Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, ha puesto en marcha iniciativas de alfabetización mediática en el Centro Penitenciario de Teixeiro (A Coruña), siguiendo las técnicas de la observación participante y el aprendizaje servicio. Dichas iniciativas se han plasmado en la elaboración de un Archivo de Voces del Mundo, que refleja y pone en valor el caudal de diversidad cultural que convive entre los muros de la cárcel, así como la elaboración de un programa de radio y la inculturación en el empleo de nuevos medios a través del desarrollo de una iniciativa de autopoéticas personales plasmadas a través de narrativas digitales. Los primeros resultados de este trabajo evidencian el poder de los medios de comunicación en la recuperación de dinámicas de dignificación y autorrepresentación; estimulan la participación activa, el desarrollo de la conciencia crítica y la recuperación de la memoria personal como una forma simbólica de reinserción de las personas privadas de libertad en la “sociedad mediática y multipantalla” (Pérez Tornero, 2008: 15) de la que también forman parte y de la que , por exigencias penitenciarias, viven ajenos.
Habitar la ruina: intervención en el Castillo de Astley, en Warwickshire, Inglaterra
Authors: Mann William
Published: February 2016

El castillo de Astley, cerca de Nuneaton en las Midlands inglesas, era un complejo en ruinas resultante de ocho siglos de adiciones y tres décadas de decadencia. Cuando el Landmark Trust nos encargó la construcción de una casa que sacara el máximo partido a las preexistencias, decidimos construir en contacto directo con los restos, manteniendo su carácter ruinoso. Al hacerlo, nos enfrentamos a la delicada labor de buscar el equilibrio entre la crudeza de la ruina sin escala y la mesurada calidez de una vivienda. Respondimos a esta tensión mediante las características complementarias de la carpintería y las fábricas, amoldándonos a la complejidad de los restos recurriendo al rigor y a la inventiva de estas disciplinas constructivas.
Os sentidos de alfabetizar na pré-escola: algumas reflexões
Authors: Tomazzetti Cleonice Maria , Löffler Daliana
Published: February 2016

Este texto é resultado de análise de dados produzidos em trabalhos circunscritos ao nível pré-escolar, desenvolvidos com duas professoras em momentos e contextos distintos. As fontes de produção e análise dos dados para esse texto foram obtidos, principalmente, dos registros da prática de estágio supervisionado na Educação Infantil e durante pesquisa de mestrado em educação. A partir desses registros propõem-se algumas reflexões acerca do processo de apropriação da língua escrita por crianças em idade pré-escolar e são explorados aspectos da infância institucionalizada, a criação, a participação e a geração de novos potenciais que se entrecruzam com dimensões propostas nas ações docentes, como de controle e repetição. Questionam-se os sentidos das práticas “alfabetizadoras” em contraponto à leitura de mundo com crianças que fazem, sonham e vivem a potência da existência humana. Tais reflexões sobre os sentidos de alfabetizar na pré-escola são desenvolvidas à luz das Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais para a Educação Infantil e de referenciais próprios da área da alfabetização. As discussões apresentadas no presente texto consideram que a complexidade da infância permite compreender as crianças em imersão no universo da leitura e da escrita muito antes de frequentarem as escolas, encarando este momento como não exclusivo do início da vida escolar das crianças. Este processo pode ser encarado como uma iniciação ou acontecimento, em que as crianças também aprendem a ler e a escrever descobrindo os caminhos sem deixar de ser criança, visto que elas não aguardam, necessariamente, a escola para iniciarem essas aprendizagens.
Sobre a formação do professor alfabetizador: contributos para a caracterização do conhecimento de base do professor alfabetizador
Authors: Pires Pereira Íris Susana , Viana Fernanda Leopoldina , Vieira da Silva Cristina
Published: February 2016

Neste texto recuperamos o quadro teórico proposto por Lee S. Shulman para dar resposta à seguinte questão: Qual o conhecimento de base do professor alfabetizador? A partir desta questão, entende-se que o ensino da alfabetização implica a convocação e a operacionalização de conhecimentos de diferentes naturezas, alguns dos quais subinvestigados e, por isso mesmo, ainda dependentes das intuições e práticas não sistematizadas e dificilmente passíveis de aprendizagem nos contextos de formação académica. Argumenta-se que é pela mesma ordem de razões que a tarefa pedagógica de ensinar a ler se torna difícil de conceber para os jovens professores. Defende-se que o modelo do conhecimento do professor alfabetizador que apresentamos se configura como basilar na concepção da formação do professor alfabetizador no atual contexto formativo português, que também é brevemente caracterizado.
Women’s leadership in local government in the Caribbean
Authors: Sam Kizzann Lee
Published: February 2016

Women and men are traditionally cast in different roles, with males being leaders in the workplace, home and government. In contrast, communities promote women as caregivers who support male leaders and shape future generations as mothers, mentors and teachers. In recognition of this societal view of women that often led to inequality and inequity, the UNDP listed Gender Equality and empowering women as one of eight Millennium Development Goals. The post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals, adopted by the United Nations in autumn 2015, also included gender equality and empowering women as Goal 5.In its work in the Caribbean, the Caribbean Local Economic Development Project (CARILED) examined gender as it relates to micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) development in six Caribbean countries.  The findings of this study showed gender gaps for both male and female entrepreneurs in different areas of development.  Traditionally gendered roles for MSME sectors, access to financing and lack of adequate guidance or community support were some areas that affected men and women differently in the region. The study outlines ways in which male and female leaders can address traditional gender roles by identifying priority areas for development, creating an enabling environment for start-ups and expansion, and fostering a policy and legislative base that facilitates ease of doing business.  The recommendations further describe the public–private partnerships needed to successfully meet gender gaps, and the importance of both elected officials and technocrats in inter alia community engagement and advocacy towards local economic development.The importance of gender equality among elected officials and technocrats, and the influence gender has on determining priority areas of focus within local government strategic plans for communities are also set out within this paper.
Local government administration in Nigeria: the search for relevance
Authors: Abdulhamid Ozohu-Suleiman , Chima Paul
Published: February 2016

In the general discourse on the local government system in Nigeria, two major influences are notable: the intervention of the military in politics, and the 1976 reform of local government. However, the 1979 constitution, which provided the legal framework for the 1976 reforms, plunged the local government system into a crisis of identity, and ever since local government in Nigeria has remained an idea in search of relevance. This paper examines both the inherent weakness of the constitutional foundation and the contradictions created by the 1976 reforms. Using a theoretical analysis, the paper finds that the combined effects of constitutional gaps and reform contradictions have rendered Nigeria’s system of local government an unfortunate ‘orphan’, and that, lacking a strong constitutional foundation, local government in Nigeria has been subject to the whims of both state and federal governments. The paper argues that, despite numerous constitutional developments, current constitutional provisions for local government in Nigeria leave much to be desired. The recommendations to improve the system include that: local government should be given the status of a federating unit in the constitution, with its powers and functions clearly spelt out; the constitutionally mandated State Joint Local Government Account (SJLGA) should be abolished; and the constitution should be amended to create a chapter which guarantees the identity and autonomy of local government as a third tier of government.
Sensitivity of simulated CO2 concentration to sub-annual variations in fossil fuel CO2 emissions
Authors: Zhang Xia , Gurney Kevin R. , Rayner Peter , Baker David , Liu Yu-ping
Published: February 2016

Abstract. Recent advances in fossil fuel CO2 (FFCO2) emission inventories enable sensitivity tests of simulated atmospheric CO2 concentrations to sub-annual variations in FFCO2 emissions and what this implies for the interpretation of observed CO2. Six experiments are conducted to investigate the potential impact of three cycles of FFCO2 emission variability (diurnal, weekly and monthly) using a global tracer transport model. Results show an annual FFCO2 rectification varying from −1.35 to +0.13 ppm from the combination of all three cycles. This rectification is driven by a large negative diurnal FFCO2 rectification due to the covariation of diurnal FFCO2 emissions and diurnal vertical mixing, as well as a smaller positive seasonal FFCO2 rectification driven by the covariation of monthly FFCO2 emissions and monthly atmospheric transport. The diurnal FFCO2 emissions are responsible for a diurnal FFCO2 concentration amplitude of up to 9.12 ppm at the grid cell scale. Similarly, the monthly FFCO2 emissions are responsible for a simulated seasonal CO2 amplitude of up to 6.11 ppm at the grid cell scale. The impact of the diurnal FFCO2 emissions, when only sampled in the local afternoon, is also important, causing an increase of +1.13 ppmv at the grid cell scale. The simulated CO2 concentration impacts from the diurnally and seasonally varying FFCO2 emissions are centered over large source regions in the Northern Hemisphere, extending to downwind regions. This study demonstrates the influence of sub-annual variations in FFCO2 emissions on simulated CO2 concentration and suggests that inversion studies must take account of these variations in the affected regions.
Uncertainty and sensitivity in optode-based shelf-sea net community production estimates
Authors: Hull Tom , Greenwood Naomi , Kaiser Jan , Johnson Martin
Published: February 2016

Abstract. Coastal seas represent one of the most valuable and vulnerable habitats on Earth. Understanding biological productivity in these dynamic regions is vital to understanding how they may influence and be affected by climate change. A key metric to this end is net community production (NCP), the net effect of autotrophy and heterotrophy; however accurate estimation of NCP has proved to be a difficult task. Presented here is a thorough exploration and sensitivity analysis of an oxygen mass-balance-based NCP estimation technique applied to the Warp Anchorage monitoring station, which is a permanently well-mixed shallow area within the River Thames plume. We have developed an open-source software package for calculating NCP estimates and air–sea gas flux. Our study site is identified as a region of net heterotrophy with strong seasonal variability. The annual cumulative net community oxygen production is calculated as (−5 ± 2.5) mol m−2 a−1. Short-term daily variability in oxygen is demonstrated to make accurate individual daily estimates challenging. The effects of bubble-induced supersaturation is shown to have a large influence on cumulative annual estimates and is the source of much uncertainty.
Effects on the Czech Lands of the 1815 eruption of Mount Tambora: responses, impacts and comparison with the Lakagígar eruption of 1783
Authors: Brázdil Rudolf , Řezníčková Ladislava , Valášek Hubert , Dolák Lukáš , Kotyza Oldřich
Published: February 2016

Abstract. The eruption of Mount Tambora in Indonesia in 1815 was one of the most powerful of its kind in recorded history. This contribution addresses climatic responses to it, the post-eruption weather, and its impacts on human life in the Czech Lands. The climatic effects are evaluated in terms of air temperature and precipitation on the basis of long-term homogenised series from the Prague-Klementinum and Brno meteorological stations, and mean Czech series in the short term (1810–1820) and long-term (1800–2010). This analysis is complemented by other climatic and environmental data derived from rich documentary evidence. Czech documentary sources make no direct mention of the Tambora eruption, neither do they relate any particular weather phenomena to it, but they record extremely cold and wet summers for 1815 and 1816 (the "Year Without a Summer") that contributed to bad grain harvests and widespread grain price increases in 1817. Possible reasons for the cold summers in the first decade of the 19th century cited in the contemporary press included comets, sunspot activity, long-term cooling and finally – as late as 1817 – earthquakes with volcanic eruptions. Here, the Tambora event is compared with the 1783 eruption of Lakagígar in Iceland, with its clearly-pronounced post-volcanic effects on the weather in central Europe (dry fog, heavy thunderstorms, optical phenomena) and the occurrence of significant cold temperature anomalies in winter 1783/84, spring 1784 and the summer and autumn of 1785. These appeared clearly in central European series, Prague-Klementinum included. Comparison of the two eruptions shows that the effects of the Lakagígar eruption in the Czech Lands were climatologically stronger those of the Tambora eruption, while the opposite held for societal responses.
Adjoint of the global Eulerian–Lagrangian coupled atmospheric transport model (A-GELCA v1.0): development and validation
Authors: Belikov Dmitry A. , Maksyutov Shamil , Yaremchuk Alexey , Ganshin Alexander , Kaminski Thomas , Blessing Simon , Sasakawa Motoki , Gomez-Pelaez Angel J. , Starchenko Alexander
Published: February 2016

Abstract. We present the development of the Adjoint of the Global Eulerian–Lagrangian Coupled Atmospheric (A-GELCA) model that consists of the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES) model as an Eulerian three-dimensional transport model (TM), and FLEXPART (FLEXible PARTicle dispersion model) as the Lagrangian Particle Dispersion Model (LPDM). The forward tangent linear and adjoint components of the Eulerian model were constructed directly from the original NIES TM code using an automatic differentiation tool known as TAF (Transformation of Algorithms in Fortran; http://www.FastOpt.com), with additional manual pre- and post-processing aimed at improving transparency and clarity of the code and optimizing the performance of the computing, including MPI (Message Passing Interface). The Lagrangian component did not require any code modification, as LPDMs are self-adjoint and track a significant number of particles backward in time in order to calculate the sensitivity of the observations to the neighboring emission areas. The constructed Eulerian adjoint was coupled with the Lagrangian component at a time boundary in the global domain. The simulations presented in this work were performed using the A-GELCA model in forward and adjoint modes. The forward simulation shows that the coupled model improves reproduction of the seasonal cycle and short-term variability of CO2. Mean bias and standard deviation for five of the six Siberian sites considered decrease roughly by 1 ppm when using the coupled model. The adjoint of the Eulerian model was shown, through several numerical tests, to be very accurate (within machine epsilon with mismatch around to ±6 e−14) compared to direct forward sensitivity calculations. The developed adjoint of the coupled model combines the flux conservation and stability of an Eulerian discrete adjoint formulation with the flexibility, accuracy, and high resolution of a Lagrangian backward trajectory formulation. A-GELCA will be incorporated into a variational inversion system designed to optimize surface fluxes of greenhouse gases.
Spatio-temporal trends in the hydroclimate of Turkey for the last decades based on two reanalysis datasets
Authors: Gokmen Mustafa
Published: February 2016

Abstract. We present a regional assessment of the spatiotemporal trends in several hydro-climate variables from 1979 to 2010 in Turkey, one of the vulnerable countries of the Eastern Mediterranean to climate change, using the two reanalysis products of ECMWF: ERA-Interim and ERA-Interim/Land, namely. The trend analysis revealed that an average warming of 1.26 °C occurred in Turkey from 1979 to 2010, with high confidence intervals (95 to 99 %) mostly. Geographically, the largest warming (up to 1.8 °C) occurred in the Western coastal areas next to Aegean Sea and in the South-East regions. The increasing trend of air temperature was confirmed by the comparisons with the measurements from several meteorological stations. With respect to the regional trends in hydrological variables, ERA-Interim and ERA-Interim/Land revealed quite different pictures: the ERA-Interim dataset indicated that there have been significant decreasing trends of precipitation, snow water equivalent and runoff in some parts of inner/South-eastern Anatolia (up to 250 mm decrease totally in the upstream of Euphrates, Kizilirmak and Seyhan basins), while ERA-Interim/Land showed none or minor trends in the same areas. Comparison of the precipitation trends by the two datasets with some rain gauge data distributed over Turkey revealed that none of the products is consistently closer to the observations. Based on the trend assessment of the hydrological trends by the two datasets and the comparisons with the observation data and other trend studies in the study area we can conclude that, except for some evapotranspiration trends over Mediterranean and Black Sea, there have not been clear and considerable trends of precipitation, snow water equivalent and runoff quantities over Turkey from 1979 to 2010, despite the considerable warming for the same period throughout the country. In this respect, we can suggest that, the impacts of global warming on the water cycle are rather unpredictable especially at regional scale.
What could irrigated agriculture mean for Amazonia? A review of green and blue water resources and their trade-offs for future agricultural production in the Amazon Basin
Authors: Lathuillière Michael J. , Coe Michael T. , Johnson Mark S.
Published: February 2016

Abstract. The Amazon Basin is a region of global importance for the carbon and hydrological cycles, a biodiversity hotspot, and a potential centre for future economic development. The region is also a major source of water vapour recycled into continental precipitation through evapotranspiration processes. This review applies an ecohydrological approach to Amazonia's water cycle by looking at contributions of water resources in the context of future agricultural production. At present, agriculture in the region is primarily rain-fed and relies almost exclusively on green water resources (soil moisture regenerated by precipitation). Future agricultural development, however, will likely follow pathways that include irrigation from blue water sources (surface and groundwater) as insurance from variability in precipitation. In this review, we first provide an updated summary of the ecohydrological framework before describing past trends in Amazonia's green and blue water resources within the context of land use and land cover change. We then describe green and blue water trade-offs in light of future agricultural production and potential irrigation to assess costs and benefits to terrestrial ecosystems, particularly land and biodiversity protection, and regional precipitation recycling. Management of green water is needed, particularly at the agricultural frontier located in the headwaters of major tributaries to the Amazon River, and home to key downstream blue water users and ecosystem services, including domestic and industrial users, as well as aquatic ecosystems.
Clinical and Pathologic Predictors of Clinical Outcome of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Berardi Rossana , Fiordoliva Ilaria , De Lisa Mariagrazia , Ballatore Zelmira , Caramanti Miriam , Morgese Francesca , Savini Agnese , Rinaldi Silvia , Torniai Mariangela , Tiberi Michela , Ferrini Consuelo , Onofri Azzurra , Cascinu Stefano
Published: February 2016

Aims and background

Although worldwide use of asbestos has decreased, the incidence of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is expected to increase over the next few decades. A number of scoring systems has been proposed to assess clinicopathologic features and to predict the prognosis. We assessed the relationship between patients’ features and disease evolution in order to choose the best treatment able to prolong overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed patients with locally advanced or metastatic MPM, treated at the Department of Medical Oncology, Università Politecnica Marche, Italy, from January 2003 to September 2013. Data on age, sex, smoking history, asbestos exposure, performance status, tumor stage, histology, type of treatment, and routine laboratory tests including complete blood count panel, date of death, or censored status were collected. The OS and PFS were estimated using Kaplan-Meier method and Cox analysis was performed to analyze the prognostic relevance of clinical parameters.

Results

We enrolled a total of 62 patients. Univariate analysis showed that histologic type, performance status, response to first-line therapy, pretreatment hemoglobin levels, and plasmatic Ca125 were significant prognostic factors. Conversely, no significant correlation was found between age, sex, smoking history, reported exposure to asbestos, stages at diagnosis, treatments, and OS and PFS.

Conclusions

Our results showed that anemia and increased Ca125 might be considered negative prognostic parameters in MPM patients and confirmed the prognostic role of histotype, performance status, and response to first-line chemotherapy.
Chance Encounters of the Musical Kind: Electronica and Audiovisual Synchronization in Three Films Directed by Tom Tykwer
Authors: Spring Katherine
Published: February 2016

This essay examines the interaction of electronica music, editing, and shot composition in three films directed by Tom Tykwer, all of which share the dramatic theme of the chance encounter, and all of which were scored by Tykwer in collaboration with pop-music composers and producers Johnny Klimek and Reinhold Heil. By using electronica music, the films train the audience’s attention to subtle changes of musical texture, which, when synchronized to changes in the image, help to convey the theme of the chance encounter. I argue further that the compositional practices that characterize Tykwer’s approach to film music constitute a fundamental shift not only from the leitmotif-bound tradition of classical Hollywood scoring but also from that same tradition’s Romantic conception of the single, creative artist who works within a musical canon associated with high art.
Hearing the silences (as well as the music) in Michael Haneke’s films
Authors: Walker Elsie
Published: February 2016

The infrequency of music in Michael Haneke’s films is frequently mentioned by critics, but usually only in passing. That Haneke often denies his audiences the comfort of suturing or conventional musical structures demands closer scrutiny. I explore the openings of representative examples: Caché (2005) and Funny Games (1997, remade in 2007). The structured silences of Caché have the most unnerving power: the absence of any harmonious, rhythmic, or melodic pattern communicates the devastating inconclusiveness that is, in the film, connected with the fallout from colonial tragedy. The sparing use of music in both versions of Funny Games is no less confrontational: the opening collision of operatic and thrashpunk music establishes Haneke’s intent to radically reframe the horror genre. I explore how these soundtracks are crucial for establishing that the films are “interrogative texts” (to apply Catherine Belsey’s term), films that self-consciously raise unsettling questions as opposed to offering the spectator the formulaic security of classic realism. Ultimately, I argue that the soundtracks of Haneke’s films also call attention to the processes of their construction and manipulation so as to be, in the director’s words, “more honest.”
Playing Dionysus: An Interview with Myself
Authors: Vened Christopher
Published: February 2016

"Playing Dionysus" is a fragment of my memoir on the Wrocław Pantomime Theater. It is about my experiences as an actor-mime working on the leading dual-role of the Guest and Dionysus in the famous production of Przyjeżdżam jutro (Arriving Tomorrow) that dazzled the world in the seventies. Those experiences were precious. The older I become, the more I realize how special they were. So I write about them to better understand them and to pass this knowledge to the reader. I explore certain acting and movement techniques in this article, which will be particularly educational for theater professionals. I also analyze in depth the main theme of Arriving Tomorrow, which was about the Dionysian frenzy, arriving at an existential message with a moral open to interpretation. In short, the message is that the Dionysian frenzy can take possession of anybody. So be aware. It can happen to you too.