bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leveraging the National Cancer Institute Cancer Centers Program to Advance Cancer Research in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Outcomes of Two Funding Initiatives
Authors: Vogel Amanda L. , Silkensen Shannon L. , Hidalgo Catherine
Published: April 2017

Abstract 45

Background:

The National Cancer Institute Cancer Centers Program is one of the anchors of the US cancer research effort. The National Cancer Institute’s Center for Global Health (CGH) has supported several initiatives that leverage this national resource to advance cancer research and related activities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In 2013, CGH awarded 1-year contracts to 15 cancer centers and partner institutions in LMICs to advance cancer research capacity in LMICs through research, training, and capacity building in a range of areas, including informatics, data sharing, and biorepositories. In 2015, CGH awarded 2-year administrative grant supplements to 10 cancer centers and partner institutions in LMICs to support cancer prevention and control research. Domains included clinical and translational research, detection and diagnosis, surveillance and registries, knowledge sharing, implementation science, informatics and mHealth, and malignancies associated with HIV and chronic infection. The aim of this work was to assess the outcomes and impacts of these investments, including scientific progress, capacity development for cancer research and related activities in LMICs, and capacity development for future partnerships among cancer centers and LMIC institutions, as well as to reflect on how initiative characteristics, such as scope and mechanism, influence outcomes and impacts.

Methods:

We performed qualitative content analysis of progress reports and final reports.

Results:

Findings highlight the outcomes and impacts of these investments in partnerships among cancer centers and LMIC institutions, and shed light on the influence of funding initiative characteristics.

Conclusion:

Findings reflect the value of these investments to advance cancer research and related activities in LMICs, and help to inform future CGH engagement with cancer centers.

AUTHORS' DISCLOSURES OF POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

No COIs from the authors.
Clinical Impact of a Global Pathology Outreach Program to Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Tan Serena Y. , Soane Caroline , Lopez-Pineda Arturo , Bhatt Ami S. , Stock Frances , Zambrano Eduardo
Published: April 2017

Abstract 31

Background:

Diagnostic resources are often limited in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Transportability of diagnostic specimens facilitates outreach services, potentially giving LMICs access to state-of-the-art services, which results in more precise therapies. The aim of this work was to evaluate the clinical impact of our ongoing international outreach consult service and to identify specific challenges that LMICs face, with the ultimate goal of guiding focused interventions to address needs in LMICs.

Methods:

Cases received were catalogued, noting demographics, anatomic site, and initial and final diagnoses. Differences between initial and final diagnoses were categorized as minor or major discrepancies with or without clinical impact affecting management and prognosis. A fifth reclassification category was created for cases in which only a broad diagnosis was initially achieved, and for which more definitive classification was subsequently provided.

Results:

Five hundred forty-five cases were identified. Initial histopathologic diagnoses were available for 318. Of these, 196 (62%) had discrepant definitive diagnoses, including 165 (52%) with clinical impact. Of those with clinical impact, 95 (58%) were reclassifications, 55 (33%) were major discrepancies, and 15 (9%) were minor differences. Of discrepancies with clinical impact, hematopathology cases were most frequent (40; 24%), then neuropathology (28; 17%), soft tissue (27; 16%), bone (18; 11%), and developmental tumors (18; 11%).

Conclusion:

Global outreach pathology consult services to LMICs have significant clinical and social impact, which is reflected by one half of the cases reviewed resulting in major change or reclassification in diagnoses that significantly impacted clinical management. Although distribution of discrepant diagnoses in this series may reflect a pediatric referral bias, they also provide insight into particular challenges that are faced by pathologists and clinicians from LMICs as a result of limited access to ancillary techniques, such as immunohistochemistry or molecular diagnostics. In addition, many cases were un- or misdiagnosed because of lack of expertise in certain areas. These trends suggest that, other than direct consultative diagnostic support, concerted efforts to improve laboratory infrastructure, resources, and training in LMICs would be efficacious in the long run.

AUTHORS' DISCLOSURES OF POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

No COIs from the authors.
Reduced Transforming Growth Factor-β Activity in the Endometrium of Women With Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Authors: Maybin Jacqueline A. , Boswell Lyndsey , Young Vicky J. , Duncan William C. , Critchley Hilary O. D.
Published: April 2017

Context:

Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is common and incapacitating. Aberrant menstrual endometrial repair may result in HMB. The transforming growth factor (TGF)-β superfamily contributes to tissue repair, but its role in HMB is unknown.

Objective:

We hypothesized that TGF-β1 is important for endometrial repair, and women with HMB have aberrant TGF-β1 activity at menses.

Participants/Setting:

Endometrial biopsies were collected from women, and menstrual blood loss objectively measured [HMB >80 mL/cycle; normal menstrual bleeding (NMB) <80 mL].

Design:

Immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction examined endometrial TGF-β1 ligand, receptors, and downstream SMADs in women with NMB and HMB. The function and regulation of TGF-β1 were examined using cell culture.

Results:

TGFB1 mRNA was maximal immediately prior to menses, but no differences detected between women with NMB and HMB at any cycle stage. Histoscoring of TGFB1 revealed reduced staining in the stroma during menses in women with HMB (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in TGFBR1/2 or TGFBR1/2 immunostaining. Cortisol increased activation of TGFB1 in the supernatant of human endometrial stromal cells (HES; P < 0.05) via thrombospondin-1. Endometrial SMAD2 and SMAD3 were lower in women with HMB during menstruation (P < 0.05), and decreased phosphorylated SMAD2/3 immunostaining was seen in glandular epithelial cells during the late secretory phase (P < 0.05). Wound scratch assays revealed increased repair in HES cells treated with TGF-β1 versus control (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Women with HMB had decreased TGF-β1 and SMADs perimenstrually. Cortisol activated latent TGF-β1 to enhance endometrial stromal cell repair. Decreased TGF-β1 activity may hinder repair of the denuded menstrual endometrium, resulting in HMB.
Skeletal Complications and Mortality in Thyroid Cancer: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Choksi Palak , Papaleontiou Maria , Guo Cui , Worden Francis , Banerjee Mousumi , Haymart Megan
Published: April 2017

Context:

Although bone is a common site for tumor metastases, the burden of bone events [bone metastases and skeletal-related events (SREs)] in patients with thyroid cancer is not well known.

Objective:

To measure the prevalence of bone events and their impact on mortality in patients with thyroid cancer.

Patients, Design, and Setting:

We identified patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer between 1991 and 2011 from the linked Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results–Medicare dataset. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the risk factors for bone metastases and SREs. We used Cox proportional hazards regressions to assess the impact of these events on mortality, after adjusting for patient and tumor characteristics.

Results:

Of the 30,063 patients with thyroid cancer, 1173 (3.9%) developed bone metastases and 1661 patients (5.5%) developed an SRE. Compared with papillary thyroid cancer, the likelihood of developing bone metastases or an SRE was higher in follicular thyroid cancer [odds ratio (OR), 2.25; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.85 to 2.74 and OR, 1.40; 95% CI, 1.15 to 1.68, respectively] and medullary thyroid cancer (OR, 2.16; 95% CI, 1.60 to 2.86 and OR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.23 to 2.11, respectively). The occurrence of a bone event was associated with greater risk of overall and disease-specific mortality [hazard ratio (HR), 2.14; 95% CI, 1.94 to 2.36 and HR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.48 to 1.71, respectively]. Bone events were a poor prognostic indicator even when compared with patients with other distant metastases (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001 for overall and disease-specific mortality, respectively).

Conclusions:

Bone events in patients with thyroid cancer are a poor prognostic indicator. Patients with follicular and medullary thyroid cancers are at especially high risk for skeletal complications.
The Effect of a Subcutaneous Infusion of GLP-1, OXM, and PYY on Energy Intake and Expenditure in Obese Volunteers
Authors: Tan Tricia , Behary Preeshila , Tharakan George , Minnion James , Al-Najim Werd , Albrechtsen Nicolai J. Wewer , Holst Jens J. , Bloom Stephen R.
Published: April 2017

Background:

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery is currently the most effective treatment of obesity, although limited by availability and operative risk. The gut hormones Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), Peptide YY (PYY), and Oxyntomodulin (OXM) are elevated postprandially after RYGB, which has been postulated to contribute to its metabolic benefits.

Objective:

We hypothesized that infusion of the three gut hormones to achieve levels similar to those encountered postprandially in RYGB patients might be effective in suppressing appetite. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a continuous infusion of GLP-1, OXM, and PYY (GOP) on energy intake and expenditure in obese volunteers.

Methods:

Obese volunteers were randomized to receive an infusion of GOP or placebo in a single-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study for 10.5 hours a day. This was delivered subcutaneously using a pump device, allowing volunteers to remain ambulatory. Ad libitum food intake studies were performed during the infusion, and energy expenditure was measured using a ventilated hood calorimeter.

Results:

Postprandial levels of GLP-1, OXM, and PYY seen post RYGB were successfully matched using 4 pmol/kg/min, 4 pmol/kg/min, and 0.4 pmol/kg/min, respectively. This dose led to a mean reduction of 32% in food intake. No significant effects on resting energy expenditure were observed.

Conclusion:

This is, to our knowledge, the first time that an acute continuous subcutaneous infusion of GOP, replicating the postprandial levels observed after RYGB, is shown to be safe and effective in reducing food intake. This data suggests that triple hormone therapy might be a useful tool against obesity.
The Spring and the Reel: On Film and Revolution
Authors: Chrostowska S. D.
Published: April 2017

This essay deals with the problem of filmically representing political revolutions. In working out what film can do with and for revolution, it argues that the representation of revolution is not as powerful or mobilizing as the reflection of revolutionary practices and ideas, always at a distance from the realm of representation. Documentary practices, I contend, can serve active reflection on the side and site of struggle. The concept of reflection leads to a deeper phenomenological and historical understanding of such documentary footage, as well as an understanding of the dynamics of revolutionary events themselves. The essay responds to political-theoretical discourse positing the “invisibility” of politics and the People. Its central claim is that film, but also more broadly audiovisual media in all their current proliferation, can have a revolutionary function that is usefully distinguished from the old one of symbolically representing revolutionary unity. Film need not be reduced to a medium of collective self-representation, of imagining the people as “One,” when it is also engaged in the diffuse work of creating revolutionary subjects out of the process of collective reflection. As both a record and a means of this reflection, film can be revolutionary in ways that are as far from the practices of Sergei Eisenstein and Dziga Vertov as they are from those of Vladimir Lenin and Mao Zedong.
Το γυναικείο ζήτημα κατά τη Hannah Arendt
Authors: Καρούνια (Katerina Karounia) Κατερίνα
Published: April 2017

According to Hannah Arendt, into the earthly world of phenomenality, where reality depends on visibility and is identified with it, people appear in their “plurality”. Therefore, it is the concrete public personalities, speaking and acting in concert, that belong to the "arendtian world"— and not the purely private beings, or bodies as natural objects, or any empirical traits and indisputable facts, including sex. Based on these assumptions, Arendt apportions a character of abstraction to the claims of the feminist movement of her time. Respectively, it can be argued that the rationalistic feminist take-up of belonging to humanity converges, paradoxically, with the essentialistic view of the female sex, as follows: both tendencies seek to understand “what is” the woman. Arendt, however, is interested in the question of “who is” he or she who acts. Sex, just like every (biological) identity of the lonely self, is horizontally overridden by spontaneous initiatives and acting within the equalizing public sphere. Although politics is not based on empirical characteristics, these same facts filter out the citizens' unique perspective whenever their individual opinion is publicly expressed and, therefore, jointly perceived, and real.
Το θουκυδίδειο έργο μέσα από τη διεισδυτική ματιά του Κορνήλιου Καστοριάδη
Authors: Γεωργακοπούλου (Triseugeni Georgakopoulou) Τρισεύγενη
Published: April 2017

Book review of Κορνηλίος Καστοριάδης, Η ελληνική ιδιαιτερότητα: Θουκυδίδης, Η ισχύς και το δίκαιο (Cornelius Castoriadis, Ce qui fait la Grèce, 3. Thucydide, la force et le droit. La création humaine)
Approach to presentation of behaviour problems part 2: referral and next steps
Authors: Hedges Stephanie
Published: April 2017

Part I of this series ( Warnes, 2017 ) discussed common medical differentials for problem behaviours in domestic dogs and cats. This article looks at the next steps once the possibility of a medical cause has been eliminated; in cases of co-morbidity; or where the behaviour persists despite medical causes having been addressed. These include how to identify an appropriate professional to whom the case can be referred; how to conduct a brief risk assessment; and the provision of interim ‘first aid’ advice in cases involving aggression, to reduce the risk of injury to humans or other animals. It also considers ongoing liaison between the Clinical Animal Behaviourist and the veterinary team regarding veterinary aspects of behaviour modification, to ensure a holistic approach.
Help to fix the foundations
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: April 2017

Since the last update there have been some interesting developments in the world of early years policy and practice, such as the release of the Workforce Strategy; as usual – they elicit mixed reactions.
Putting some verve into your child interactions
Authors: Powers Deborah , Packer Melanie
Published: April 2017

In the second of our articles exploring Warwickshire council's ‘time to talk’™ initiative, we take a look at how speech and language therapists are working with settings to close the achievement gap.
Your Ofsted experience is valuable
Authors: Lawson Deborah
Published: April 2017

The popular decision to bring school inspections ‘in house’ was a direct result of concerns raised about consistency, yet no details have yet been released about how this transition is to be handled.
Making science enjoyable
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: April 2017

Young children are naturally curious, using hands-on learning to explore the world they live in, which means in many ways they are already scientists. We need to foster curiosity with fun activities.
Finding your place in space
Authors: Sargent Marianne
Published: April 2017

This article is an extract from the Practical Pre-School book, Developing Early Maths Skills Outdoors; it explores the notion of shape in relation to physical development and a child's mathematical knowledge.
Feeling glad or feeling sad
Authors: Hammond Paula
Published: April 2017

This month, we kick start a new series focusing on Personal, social, and emotional development with activities designed to get children into the habit of self-analysis – first up, we look at emotions!
Patients undergoing surgical hip dislocation for the treatment of acetabular fractures show favourable long-term outcome
Authors: Haefeli P. C. , Marecek G. S. , Keel M. J. B. , Siebenrock K. A. , Tannast M.
Published: April 2017

Aims

The aims of this study were to determine the cumulative ten-year survivorship of hips treated for acetabular fractures using surgical hip dislocation and to identify factors predictive of an unfavourable outcome.

Patients and Methods

We followed up 60 consecutive patients (61 hips; mean age 36.3 years, standard deviation (sd) 15) who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for a displaced fracture of the acetabulum (24 posterior wall, 18 transverse and posterior wall, ten transverse, and nine others) with a mean follow-up of 12.4 years (sd 3).

Results

Clinical grading was assessed using the modified Merle d’Aubigné score. Radiographic osteoarthritis was graded according to Matta. Kaplan-Meier survivorship and a univariate Cox-regression analysis were carried out using the following endpoints: total hip arthroplasty, a Merle d’Aubigné score of < 15 and/or progression of osteoarthritis.

Conclusion

The ten-year cumulative survivorship was 82% (95% confidence interval 71 to 92). Predictors for the defined endpoints were femoral chondral lesions, marginal impaction, duration of surgery, and age of patient. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:508–15.
The management of open tibial fractures in children
Authors: Nandra R. S. , Wu F. , Gaffey A. , Bache C. E.
Published: April 2017

Aims

Following the introduction of national standards in 2009, most major paediatric trauma is now triaged to specialist units offering combined orthopaedic and plastic surgical expertise. We investigated the management of open tibia fractures at a paediatric trauma centre, primarily reporting the risk of infection and rate of union.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective review was performed on 61 children who between 2007 and 2015 presented with an open tibia fracture. Their mean age was nine years (2 to 16) and the median follow-up was ten months (interquartile range 5 to 18). Management involved IV antibiotics, early debridement and combined treatment of the skeletal and soft-tissue injuries in line with standards proposed by the British Orthopaedic Association.

Results

There were 36 diaphyseal fractures and 25 distal tibial fractures. Of the distal fractures, eight involved the physis. Motor vehicle collisions accounted for two thirds of the injuries and 38 patients (62%) arrived outside of normal working hours. The initial method of stabilisation comprised: casting in nine cases (15%); elastic nailing in 19 (31%); Kirschner (K)-wiring in 13 (21%); intramedullary nailing in one (2%); open reduction and plate fixation in four (7%); and external fixation in 15 (25%). Wound management comprised: primary wound closure in 24 (39%), delayed primary closure in 11 (18%), split skin graft (SSG) in eight (13%), local flap with SSG in 17 (28%) and a free flap in one. A total of 43 fractures (70%) were Gustilo-Anderson grade III. There were four superficial (6.6%) and three (4.9%) deep infections. Two deep infections occurred following open reduction and plate fixation and the third after K-wire fixation of a distal fracture. No patient who underwent primary wound closure developed an infection. All the fractures united, although nine patients required revision of a mono-lateral to circular frame for delayed union (two) or for altered alignment or length (seven). The mean time to union was two weeks longer in diaphyseal fractures than in distal fractures (13 weeks versus 10.8 weeks, p = 0.016). Children aged > 12 years had a significantly longer time to union than those aged < 12 years (16.3 weeks versus 11.4 weeks, p = 0.045). The length of stay in hospital for patients with a Gustilo-Anderson grade IIIB fracture was twice as long as for less severe injuries.

Conclusion

Fractures in children heal better than those in adults. Based on our experience of deep infection we discourage the use of internal fixation with a plate for open tibial fractures in children. We advocate aggressive initial wound debridement in theatre with early definitive combined orthopaedic and plastic surgery in order to obtain skeletal stabilisation and soft-tissue cover. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:544–53.
The evolution of fracture clinic design
Authors: White T. O. , Mackenzie S. P. , Carter T. H. , Jefferies J. G. , Prescott O. R. , Duckworth A. D. , Keating J. F.
Published: April 2017

Aims

Fracture clinics are often characterised by the referral of large numbers of unselected patients with minor injuries not requiring investigation or intervention, long waiting times and recurrent unnecessary reviews. Our experience had been of an unsustainable system and we implemented a ‘Trauma Triage Clinic’ (TTC) in order to rationalise and regulate access to our fracture service. The British Orthopaedic Association’s guidelines have required a prospective evaluation of this change of practice, and we report our experience and results.

Patients and Methods

We review the management of all 12 069 patients referred to our service in the calendar year 2014, with a minimum of one year follow-up during the calendar year 2015.

Results

Following the successful introduction of the TTC, only 2836 patients (23.5%) who would previously have been reviewed in the general fracture clinic were brought back to such a clinic to be seen by a surgeon. An additional 2366 patients (19.6%) were brought back to a sub-specialist injury-specific clinic. Another 2776 patients (23%) with relatively predictable injuries were reviewed by a nurse practitioner according to an established protocol or specific consultant instructions. A further 3222 patients (26.7%) were discharged from the service without attending the clinic. No significant errors or omissions occurred with the introduction of the TTC.

Conclusion

We have found that our TTC allows large numbers of referrals to be reviewed and triaged safely and effectively, to the benefit and satisfaction of patients, consultants, trainees, staff and the organisation. This paper provides the first large-scale review of the instigation of a TTC, and its effect, acceptability and safety. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:503–7.
SCFE: Clinical aspects, diagnosis, and classification
Authors: Millis M. B.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This article seeks to improve treatment outcomes in slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) by outlining advances in diagnosis, understanding of pathomechanics, and mechanically-based classification.

Methods

Review of clinical experience with SCFE at our high-volume centre, interaction with other clinical experts, and literature review has allowed a current perspective to be articulated

Results

SCFE remains an important clinical problem, with late diagnosis still frequent. Improved understanding of the ubiquity of femoroacetabular impingement has guided current classification and treatment protocols

Conclusion

SCFE is an important clinical problem, with high historical rates of impaired hip function both in childhood and adulthood. Great opportunities exist for improved outcomes following earliest possible clinical diagnosis, modern imaging, and mechanically-based classification of involved hips to allow optimal treatment.
The modified Dunn procedure for slipped capital femoral epiphysis: The Bernese experience
Authors: Tannast M. , Jost L. M. , Lerch T. D. , Schmaranzer F. , Ziebarth K. , Siebenrock K. A.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Based on previous investigations on the vascular blood supply to the femoral head, a technique for anatomical reduction after slipped capital femoral epiphysis was developed. This technique is a modification of the original technique by Dunn using a retinacular soft-tissue flap. This allows the visual control of the epiphyseal vascular blood supply. We report the experience at the inventor's institution with a critical discussion of the available literature.

Methods

Using a trochanteric osteotomy for surgical dislocation of the hip, a retinacular soft tissue flap is created containing the deep branch of the medial femoral circumflex artery, the external rotators and the capsule. The femoral epiphysis can be mobilised safely and reduced on the femoral neck after resection of the almost constantly present reactive metaphyseal callus.

Results

In our institution, the rate of avascular necrosis with 2% is comparably low to Dunn's original results. It is only present in cases where no bleeding was already evident before reduction of the epiphysis. The ten-year long-term results are favorable in these cases with a good functional result and only little progression of osteoarthritis. However, other authors have reported higher rates of avascular necrosis up to 24% in their initial experience.

Conclusions

In experienced hands using the correct meticulous surgical technique, the results are favorable regarding the rates of avascular necrosis, the functional outcome and the development of radiographic osteoarthritis – even in acute and severe cases. Avascular necrosis is rare but can be observed if there is no evidence of intra-operative femoral head perfusion before and after reduction of the epiphysis.
Effective Dye Removal from Waste Water Using a Novel Low-Cost NaOH-Modified Fly Ash
Authors: Gao Xiaoming , Dai Yuan , Zhang Yu , Zhai Xiang , Fu Feng
Published: April 2017

Dyes are toxic and considered to be extremely hazardous to natural environments. Hence, adsorbents to remove dyes from contaminated water are needed. To develop adsorbents with a high adsorption capacity for different dyes, easy separation, and low cost, a novel dye adsorbent was prepared by activating fly ash with NaOH. The adsorbent morphology, structure, and specific surface area were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and surface area measurements using N2 adsorption-desorption. The adsorption abilities of the synthesized adsorbents were examined based on methylene blue and acid fuchsin adsorption from water. The capabilities of the adsorbents as a function of adsorbent use, dye type, dye concentration, time, and pH were investigated and compared. The results for methylene blue and acid fuchsin adsorption were modeled using pseudo-second order kinetics and the Langmuir adsorption isotherm, respectively. These modified adsorbents synthesized from fly ash may provide a promising solution to purify dye-contaminated waste water with the advantages of high efficiency and low cost.
Application of Multivariate Analysis in the Assessment of Ceramic Raw Materials
Authors: Lisboa José V. , Rocha Fernando , de Oliveira Daniel P. S.
Published: April 2017

The aim of the present study was to discriminate between distinct types of clay units by applying multivariate statistical techniques, which have seldom been applied to the exploitation of ceramic clays. At the outcrop scale, texturally similar argillaceous or clayey layers of different ceramic types cannot be effectively distinguished, which can result in the misuse and loss of raw materials. Representative samples of clayey raw materials from central Portugal Cenozoic deposits with potential use in the manufacture of structural clay products were first assessed for granulometric, mineralogical, chemical, and technological properties. Based on those properties and the use of multivariate statistical techniques, i.e., factor analysis (FA) and cluster analysis (CA), a novel statistical approach that combined all these variable properties was produced. This approach made it possible to distinguish the ceramic suitability and perceive which parameters most influence that suitability. The use of R-mode FA made it feasible to differentiate and group samples based on the most influential variables: the contents of Al2O3, Fe, illite, quartz, feldspars, and K2O. The use of R-mode CA substantiated the FA results in the identification of influential variables, such as Al2O3, Fe, and illite. The use of Q-mode CA established two main clusters: clayey-silt samples and sandy and/or feldspathic samples, the clayey-silt samples encompassed three sub-clusters. These three sub-clusters match ceramic types with different suitabilities and relate sample stratigraphic setting to the encompassing stratigraphic units. Diagrams that relate the grain size, the content of different oxides, the content of different minerals, and the plasticity to the ceramic suitability illustrate the CA groupings. An adequate blend of sand and clay for red stoneware (bricks and tiles) manufacture was indicated as a major requirement for most raw materials of the clayey-silt cluster. Raw materials represented by the sandy and/or feldspathic cluster can either be used to blend with materials that lack sand or to blend with excessively plastic samples.
Evaluation of the Moisture Change Ability of Selected Crop Seeds
Authors: Kornarzyński Krzysztof , Gładyszewska Bożena
Published: April 2017

The objective of the paper was to investigate the moisture change ability of bean, broad bean, pea, lupine, radish, beetroot, winter wheat, maize, cucumber, pumpkin and sunflower seeds. Seeds absorbed water in the system for measurement of the water absorption kinetics with the capillary and weighting method. The research results were presented in the form of plots of the relation of kinetics of the moisture change of seeds in the time for the first and second stage of the process which precedes germination. Moreover, the water content in seeds for the time of the end of the second stage of water absorption was determined and the maximum water absorption speed coefficient and the time of its obtaining was calculated. The water content for the end of the 2nd stage of its collection was the highest for seeds which include a hard caryopsis and for broad bean plant seeds. The maximum water absorption speed coefficient was the highest for seeds with low initial moisture - radish, beetroot, cucumber and pumpkin. The measurement of the water absorption speed with the use of the capillary and weighting method enabled investigation of seeds with a varied size, construction of a seed coat and chemical composition for a long period of time to the moment seedlings were obtained.
Understanding Student Motivation: A Key to Retention in Higher Education
Authors: Rizkallah Elias G. , Seitz Victoria
Published: April 2017

This paper explores what motivates college students at different stages of their academic studies. Using Herzberg’s two-factor theory, the researchers conducted a survey of 535 students in three south-western universities to determine if motivations changed throughout their academic careers. Results showed that students at different stages of their college careers have different concern s and, as such, different motivational strategies are needed to respond to their concerns. Implications are given to grow and retain enrolment.
Specifics of IFRS Adoption by Central and Eastern European Countries: Evidence from Research
Authors: Procházka David
Published: April 2017

The paper reviews recent literature on the specifics of adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) by the new EU members from the Central and Eastern Europe. Despite being members of the EU or OECD, the transition to a standard developed economy has not yet finished. The first part of the paper presents macroeconomic statistics and capital market data, which underline a unique economic structure of the region (relative unimportance of capital markets for raising capital, strong dependence on foreign direct investments) combined with the lacks in institutional environment. Under such conditions, the economic consequences of IFRS adoption can be unpredictable and adverse. The second part of the paper analyses the reflection of specifics of the IFRS adoption in the CEE region in research studies covered by the Thomson Reuters’ Web of Science database. The analysis reveals (a) cross-country disproportion in the research coverage of the area; (b) relatively low coverage of the IFRS research focusing on these transition countries in top journals.
Integration and In-Field Gains Selection of Flight and Navigation Controller for Remotely Piloted Aircraft System
Authors: Słowik Maciej , Ołdziej Daniel , Gosiewski Zdzisław
Published: April 2017

In the paper the implementation process of commercial flight and navigational controller in own aircraft is shown. The process of autopilot integration were performed for the fixed-wing type of unmanned aerial vehicle designed in high-wing and pull configuration of the drive. The above equipment were integrated and proper software control algorithms were chosen. The correctness of chosen hardware and software solution were verified in ground tests and experimental flights. The PID controllers for longitude and latitude controller channels were selected. The proper deflections of control surfaces and stabilization of roll, pitch and yaw angles were tested. In the next stage operation of telecommunication link and flight stabilization were verified. In the last part of investigations the preliminary control gains and configuration parameters for roll angle control loop were chosen. This enable better behavior of UAV during turns. Also it affected other modes of flight such as loiter (circle around designated point) and auto mode where the plane executed a pre-programmed mission.
Measurement Approach of Mean Heat Transfer Coefficient for Packed Bed of Vegetables
Authors: Łapiński Adam , Butrymowicz Dariusz , Kołodziejczyk Mirosława
Published: April 2017

The non-invasive measurement approach of the mean heat transfer coefficient for the packed bed of vegetables may be thought as still open issue. There is a clear need for the assessment of heat transfer conditions for various types of fruits and vegetables in order to accurately predict the thermal load that is necessary to select refrigeration equipment for cold storage chamber. Additionally, there is significant development in numerical modelling of heat and mass transfer processes in cold storage chambers for fruits and vegetables which requires precise heat transfer prediction. The theoretical basis for the indirect measurement approach of mean heat transfer coefficient for the packed bed of vegetables that is based on single blow technique is presented and discussed in the paper. The approach based on the modified model of Liang and Yang was presented and discussed. The testing stand consisted of a dedicated experimental tunnel along with auxiliary equipment and measurement system are presented. The geometry of the tested vegetables bed were presented. Selected experimental results of heat transfer are presented and discussed for the packed bed of carrots. These results were presented as dimensionless relationship. The obtained results were compared with the existing dimensionless relationships developed for the packed bed consisting of elements of various regular shapes.
Nickel and Copper-Free Sintered Structural Steels Containing Mn, Cr, Si, and Mo Developed for High Performance Applications
Authors: Cias A. , Stoytchev M.
Published: April 2017

In an attempt to study the sinterability of potential high-strength nickel-free sintered structural steels containing Mn, Cr, Si and Mo compacts were prepared based on sponge and water atomised iron powders and on Astaloy prealloyed powders. To these were admixed ferromanganese, ferroslicon, and graphite. The samples were sintered at temperatures 1120 and 1250°C in laboratory tube furnaces in hydrogen, hydrogen-nitrogen atmospheres with dew points better than -60°C or in nitrogen in a semiclosed container in a local microatmosphere. After sintering the samples were slowly cooled or sinterhardened. Generally resultant microstructures were inhomogeneous, consisted of pearlite/ bainite/martensite, but were characterised by an absence of oxide networks. Sintering studies performed over a range of compositions have shown that superior strength, ranging beyond 900 MPa, along with reasonable tensile elongation, can be achieved with these new steels.
Evaluation of pore sizes in welded joints made in various constructional materials on the basis of penetrant testing by colour method
Authors: Czuchryj J. , Irek P.
Published: April 2017

It has been compared the dimensions of indications obtained in colour liquid-penetrant inspection. The indications arose from simulated pores drilled in test elements. The series of penetrant tests included different structural materials. On the basis of test results it has been ascertained the possibility of evaluation of the pores depth as well as it has been determined recommended development times for different constructional materials
Geometric Parameters of Cutting Tools that Can be Used for Forming Sided Surfaces with Variable Profile
Authors: Razumov M. , Grechukhin A. , Maslennikov A.
Published: April 2017

This article describes machining technology of polyhedral surfaces with varying profile, which is provided by planetary motion of multiblade block tools. The features of the technology and urgency of the problem is indicated. The purpose of the study is to determine the minimum value of the clearance angle of the tool. Also, the study is carried out about changing the value of the front and rear corners during the formation of polygonal surface using a planetary gear. The scheme of calculating the impact of various factors on the value of the minimum clearance angle of the tool and kinematic front and rear corners of the instrument is provided. The mathematical formula for calculating the minimum clearance angle of the tool is given. Also, given the formula for determining the front and rear corners of the tool during driving. This study can be used in the calculation of the design operations forming multifaceted external surfaces with a variable profile by using the planetary gear.
Practical Application of the Concept of Separating the Zone of Overheating and Reducing the Stress Level in Cathode Block of an Aluminium Electrolytic Cell During Formation of Connection with the Steel Pin by Cast Iron Pouring
Authors: Piekło J. , Maj M.
Published: April 2017

The article presents the concept of division of a carbon block into single cathode sections to reduce stresses that occur during thermal shock accompanying the operation of pouring cast iron into a shaped groove in which the current-carrying steel pin is mounted. The temperature field and the state of stress were determined by FEM. Experimental measurements were used to determine the core displacement during pouring operation. The calculations were verified by thermovision and photoelastic method. Based on the temperature field and stress field analysis, a method for the block division into sections has been proposed, resulting in a significant reduction of the stress level.
Experimental determination of the void volume fraction for S235JR steel at failure in the range of high stress triaxialities
Authors: Kossakowski P. G.
Published: April 2017

This paper is concerned with the critical void volume fraction fFrepresenting the size of microdefects in a material at the time of failure. The parameter is one of the constants of the Gurson-Tvergaard-Needleman (GTN) material model that need to be determined while modelling material failure processes. In this paper, an original experimental method is proposed to determine the values of fF. The material studied was S235JR steel. After tensile tests, the void volume fraction was measured at the fracture surface using an advanced technique of quantitative image analysis The material was subjected to high initial stress triaxialities T0ranging from 0.556 to 1.345. The failure processes in S235JR steel were analysed taking into account the influence of the state of stress.
Impact of electro slag remelting on 14 109 steel properties
Authors: Pribulová A. , Futáš P. , Kmita A. , Márasová D. , Holtzer M.
Published: April 2017

The Electro Slag Remelting (ESR) is one of the remelting processes in the field of metal refinery. In this process, the slag plays various roles, such as heat generation, protection of melt, and chemical refining. The main objective of the experiments described in this article was to identify the most appropriate slag composition for the electro slag remelting of the steel in order to achieve the chemical composition compliant with the standard applicable to the given steel, minimum sulphur content, minimum contents of oxide and sulphide inclusions, as well as mechanical properties corresponding to the standard applicable to the steel STN 14 109. Ten electrodes were remelted, whereas the remelting was carried out under 8 slags. The used slags containing 70% of CaF2 and 30% of Al2O3 with different addition of CaO, the slags consisted of the same components as previous slags, whereas the ratio of individual components was 1:1:1, and with SiO2 and MgO and slag without Al2O3. With regard to all the above mentioned facts, the slag types which may be regarded as the most appropriate for the STN 14 109 steel remelting are the basic slags containing 70% of CaF2 - 30% of Al2O3 with added 30 and 45 weight % of CaO.
Identification of the steel viscosity and dynamic yield stress for the numerical modelling of casting simulations in the semi-solid state
Authors: Solek K.
Published: April 2017

Conditions of some casting processes cause flow of both liquid and semi-liquid metal alloys inside the die cavity. Generally, the continuous casting, squeeze casting or thixoforming could be classified as such processes. Design or optimisation of casting technology using numerical simulations requires knowledge of the rheological properties. The main objective of the experimental work, presented in this publication, is an analysis of the viscosity of 1.2080 (X210Cr12) high carbon steel in liquid and semisolid state. The secondary purpose of the experimental work was a development of the viscosity models used in continuous casting and thixoforming simulations. The significant achievement of this particular study was identification of thixotropy phenomenon which occurs not only during thixoforming, but also during magnetohydrodynamic stirring in continuous casting processes.
Quantitative analysis of stability of 9%Cr steel microstructure after long-term ageing
Authors: Golański G. , Jasak J. , Zieliński A. , Kolan C. , Urzynicok M. , Wieczorek P.
Published: April 2017

The paper presents the results of research on the microstructure of martensitic X10CrMoVNb9-1 (P91) and X13CrMoCo- VNbNB9-2-1 (PB2) steel subject to long-term ageing at the temperature of 620°C and holding times up to 30 000 hours. The microstructural tests of the examined steel types were performed using a scanning microscope Joel JSM - 6610LV and a transmission electron microscope TITAN 80 - 300. The stability of the microstructure of the investigated steels was analyzed using a quantitative analysis of an image, including measurements of the following: the density of dislocations inside martensite/subgrain laths, the width of martensite laths, and the mean diameter of precipitates. It has been concluded that during long-term ageing, the microaddition of boron in PB2 steel significantly influenced the slowing of the process of degradation of the martensitic steel microstructure, as a result of slowing the process of coagulation of M23C6 carbides and Laves phase. It had a favorable effect on the stabilization of lath microstructure as a result of retardation of the processes of recovery and polygonization of the matrix.
Wave propagation in a microstretch thermoelastic diffusion solid
Authors: Kumar Rajneesh
Published: April 2017

The present article deals with the two parts: (i) The propagation of plane waves in a microstretch thermoelastic diffusion solid of infinite extent. (ii) The reflection and transmission of plane waves at a plane interface between inviscid fluid half-space and micropolar thermoelastic diffusion solid half-space. It is found that for two-dimensional model, there exist four coupled longitudinal waves, that is, longitudinal displacement wave (LD), thermal wave (T), mass diffusion wave (MD) and longitudinal microstretch wave (LM) and two coupled transverse waves namely (CD-I and CD-II waves). The phase velocity, attenuation coefficient, specific loss and penetration depth are computed numerically and depicted graphically. In the second part, it is noticed that the amplitude ratios of various reflected and transmitted waves are functions of angle of incidence, frequency of incident wave and are influenced by the microstretch thermoelastic diffusion properties of the media. The expressions of amplitude ratios and energy ratios are obtained in closed form. The energy ratios have been computed numerically for a particular model. The variations of energy ratios with angle of incidence for thermoelastic diffusion media in the context of Lord-Shulman (L-S) [1] and Green-Lindsay (G-L) [2] theories are depicted graphically. Some particular cases are also deduced from the present investigation.
Hungarian Culture of Philosophy and Historiography of Philosophy in Transylvania
Authors: Tonk Márton
Published: April 2017

The first part of the study debates the role and the status of philosophy in the Hungarian culture in Transylvania, trying to explain why philosophy has not become an organic part of the Transylvanian culture as a whole. There are presented a few experimental and theoretical arguments, especially the theory of the so-called ‘short philosophical tradition’. The second part the paper seeks to analyse the impact of the ‘short philosophical tradition’ on the current philosophy life in Transylvania, bringing an overview of the institutional structure of Hungarian philosophy in Transylvania.
Minority Civil Society
Authors: Bodó Barna
Published: April 2017

Both the concept and the issue of civil society is a matter of dispute in respect of theory and practice alike. The present paper has a triple ambition: outlining the history of ideas behind the concept, providing an interpretation, and carrying out a distinct analysis of the processes characteristic of the East-Central European region. Owing to the unrealistic expectations formed around the concept, mystification poses a great danger to present-day civil society. In what follows, we will analyse the dilemmas evolved around the issue of civil society.
An Optimization of Closed Frequent Subgraph Mining Algorithm
Authors: Demetrovics J. , Quang H. M. , Anh N. V. , Thi V. D.
Published: April 2017

Graph mining isamajor area of interest within the field of data mining in recent years. Akey aspect of graph mining is frequent subgraph mining. Central to the entire discipline of frequent subgraph mining is the concept of subgraph isomorphism. One major issue in early subgraph isomorphism research concerns computational complexity. Normally, the subgraph isomorphism problem is NP-complete. Previous studies of frequent subgraph mining have not solved NP-complete problem in the subgraph isomorphism. In this paper, we proposeanew algorithm which can deal with this problem. The proposed algorithm can solve the subgraph isomorphism in polynomial time in some settings. Moreover, the new algorithm is proved theoretically more effective than previous studies in closed frequent subgraph mining.