bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rigor index, fillet yield and proximate composition of cultured striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) for its suitability in processing industries in Bangladesh
Authors: Islami Salma Noor-E , Reza Md. Shaheed , Mansur Md. Abul , Hossain Md. Ismail , Shikha Fatema Hoque , Kamal Md.
Published: November 2014

Rigor-index in market-size striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus, locally called Thai-Pangas) was determined to assess fillet yield for production of value-added products. In whole fish, rigor started within 1 hr after death under both iced and room temperature conditions while rigor-index reached a maximum of 72.23% within 8 hr and 85.5% within 5 hr at room temperature and iced condition, respectively, which was fully relaxed after 22 hr under both storage conditions. Post-mortem muscle pH decreased to 6.8 after 2 hr, 6.2 after 8 hr and sharp increase to 6.9 after 9 hr. There was a positive correlation between rigor progress and pH shift in fish fillets. Hand filleting was done post-rigor and fillet yield experiment showed 50.4±2.1% fillet, 8.0±0.2% viscera, 8.0±1.3% skin and 32.0±3.2% carcass could be obtained from Thai-Pangas. Proximate composition analysis of four regions of Thai-Pangas viz., head region, middle region, tail region and viscera revealed moisture 78.36%, 81.14%, 81.45% and 57.33%; protein 15.83%, 15.97%, 16.14% and 17.20%; lipid 4.61%, 1.82%, 1.32% and 24.31% and ash 1.09%, 0.96%, 0.95% and 0.86%, respectively indicating suitability of Thai-Pangas for production of value-added products such as fish fillets.
Abundance of anemone fishes in North Bay Island and mass culture of live food organisms for their larval rearing
Authors: Rajendran Rajaram , Ramesh Selvaraj , Roy S. Dam , Haq M.A. Badhul , Ramalingam Vaikundamoorthy
Published: November 2014

Understanding the transect survey for abundance of anemone fishes and other living organisms is important to asses reef associated fish diversity in North Bay island. The percentage distribution of 10 different substratum from the disturbed, semi-disturbed and undisturbed areas was recorded during the survey in North Bay islands during November 2009 to April 2010. The survey observations reveal that the fishes were the dominant groups followed by mollusks, lobsters and octopus. There are 5 different anemone fishes were collected during the transect survey and their distribution is more in undisturbed area. We are standardizing the different mass culture techniques for production of phytoplankton and zooplankton for the nutritional source for the anemone fish larvae. Monitoring the water quality parameters and culture the phytoplankton and zooplankton used in different culture media with 2 adjustment studies like with and without salinity adjustment. The results of this experiment indicate that zooplankton was rich in protein and fat content and it will be used as high nutritional source for feeding fish larvae.
Using Fourier‐Transform Mid‐Infrared Spectroscopy to Distinguish Soil Organic Matter Composition Dynamics in Aggregate Fractions of Two Agroecosystems
Authors: Fultz Lisa M. , Moore-Kucera Jennifer , Calderón Francisco , Acosta-Martínez Veronica
Published: November 2014

The relationship between soil organic C (SOC) content and its composition as impacted by management is not well understood and may influence long‐term storage of SOC. To better understand the potential for SOC storage in specific aggregate pools (e.g., physically protected intra‐aggregate C), a wet‐sieving aggregate fractionation method was coupled with Fourier‐transform mid‐infrared (MidIR) spectroscopy to determine the composition of water‐stable (macroaggregates, microaggregates, and silt + clay) and intra‐aggregate (particulate organic matter [POM], microaggregates, and silt + clay) fractions under an integrated crop–livestock (ICL) system and continuous cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) production. These agroecosystems were located in the semiarid Texas High Plains on a clay loam soil. The ICL system included a paddock of grazed WW‐B. Dahl Old World bluestem [Bothriochloa bladhii (Retz) S.T. Blake] and a no‐till crop rotation of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)–fallow–rye (Secale cereale L.)–cotton for livestock grazing and cotton production. Distance‐based redundancy analysis (dbRDA) of the MidIR spectra distinguished the intra‐aggregate POM from the other fractions. The intra‐aggregate POM fraction was correlated with increased pseudo‐absorbance (PA) in regions associated with carboxylates, phenolic C–O, aliphatic C–H, and quartz, while macro‐ and microaggregates demonstrated higher PA at 1570 and 1700 to 1765cm−1. Differences attributed to management were identifiable in intra‐aggregate POM and both silt + clay fractions. Within the intra‐aggregate POM, dbRDA showed that bluestem was characterized by higher PA at 2800 to 3000 and 3300 to 3450 cm−1 relative to the rest of the rotations. In the silt + clay fractions, more labile functional groups were found following rye and cotton planting.
Intra‐aggregate Pore Structure Influences Phylogenetic Composition of Bacterial Community in Macroaggregates
Authors: Kravchenko Alexandra N. , Negassa Wakene C. , Guber Andrey K. , Hildebrandt Britton , Marsh Terence L. , Rivers Mark L.
Published: November 2014

It is known that variability in the characteristics of soil physical microenvironments, e.g., locations and characteristics of soil pores, can have a major influence on microorganisms. This study compared the characteristics of intra‐aggregate pores and their relationships with bacterial community composition in 4‐ to 6‐mm soil macroaggregates from two contrasting agricultural systems, namely a corn (Zea mays L.)–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]–wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) rotation (i) with conventional chemical inputs and (ii) without chemical inputs but with legume cover crops. Characteristics of intra‐aggregate pores and particulate organic matter (POM) were obtained from three‐dimensional X‐ray computed microtomography aggregate images at 13‐μm resolution. Microbial community analyses were conducted using 16S rRNA pyrosequencing. We found that the aggregates from long‐term (>20 yr) organic management with cover crops differed from the aggregates from conventional management in terms of intra‐aggregate pore‐size distribution, intra‐aggregate pore variability, POM contents, as well as microbial community compositions. Relative abundances of Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Firmicutes in the aggregates from cover‐crop‐based management were positively correlated with the presence of large (>110 μm) pores, while the presence of medium‐sized pores (32–84 μm) was significantly correlated with 30 to 40% of the top 100 bacterial operational taxonomic units identified during sequencing. The results suggested that the legacy of rhizosphere presence in terms of intra‐aggregate pore structure and microbial community composition can last in the studied soil for at least 4 to 9 mo. Our study demonstrated that working with bulk sieved soil samples can mask substantial differences present within distinct soil aggregate units.
STABILITY IN TEMPERAMENT AND EMOTIONAL EXPRESSION IN 1- TO 3-YEAR-OLD CHILDREN
Authors: Losonczy-Marshall Marta
Published: November 2014

I examined the stability of emotional expression in 18 toddlers aged 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years using laboratory observation. The children were presented with 5 social stimuli. Their emotional expressions were video recorded and later behaviorally coded by 2 independent raters. Average
latency, intensity, and duration scores for emotional expression for each child were calculated at ages 1, 2, and 3 years and compared using Friedman's test. Intensity of emotional expression in the children showed stability over the 3 years; no significant differences were found between ages
1, 2, and 3 (χ2(2) = 1.78, p = .41). Additionally, based on parental questionnaires for each year, from 1 to 3 years of age intensity, mood, activity, approach, and adaptability were 5 dimensions of temperament that showed stability.
Newcomers' Future Work Selves, Perceived Supervisor Support, and Proactive Socialization in Chinese Organizations
Authors: Zhang Yanhong , Liao Jianqiao , Yan Yanling , Guo Yun
Published: November 2014

Based on self-determination theory, we examined how new employees' (newcomers) future work selves and perceived level of supervisor support influence newcomers' proactive socialization in the workplace, a factor that leads to better long-term adjustment. We conducted a survey using
a 3-wave longitudinal design with 295 people employed in a range of organizations in China. Results indicate that level of perceived supervisor support had a significant influence on the relationship between newcomers' future work selves and their proactive adjustment behavior, such that the
relationship became stronger as perceived supervisor support increased. In addition, we found that newcomers' proactive adjustment behavior was positively related to both the quality of their social integration and their job performance. Theoretical and practical implications and directions
for future research are discussed.
Moderating Effect of Institutional Responsiveness on the Relationship Between Green Leadership and Green Competitiveness
Authors: Lee Meng-Hsiu , Lin Chuan , Lin Chih-Kuo , Lu Wan-Ying
Published: November 2014

With a growing focus among firms globally on saving energy and increasing environmental awareness, it is critical to explore the implementation of corporate greening in subsidiaries of multinational companies. Multinational companies need to respond simultaneously to institutional requirements
and pressures for corporate greening. In this study we utilized the natural-resource-based view to investigate how green leadership can enhance green competitiveness. Based on a quantitative analysis of 212 subsidiaries of multinational companies in China, we found that green leadership positively
influences green competitiveness. Further, this relationship was found to be stronger in firms with higher (more active) levels of institutional responsiveness. We highlight practical implications and make suggestions for theoretical development.
Long-term evaluation of Class II subdivision treatment with unilateral maxillary first molar extraction
Authors: Livas Christos , Pandis Nikolaos , Booij Johan Willem , Katsaros Christos , Ren Yijin
Published: November 2014

Objective: 

To evaluate the long-term effects of asymmetrical maxillary first molar (M1) extraction in Class II subdivision treatment.

Materials and Methods: 

Records of 20 Class II subdivision whites (7 boys, 13 girls; mean age, 13.0 years; SD, 1.7 years) consecutively treated with the Begg technique and M1 extraction, and 15 untreated asymmetrical Class II adolescents (4 boys, 11 girls; mean age, 12.2 years; SD, 1.3 years) were examined in this study. Cephalometric analysis and PAR assessment were carried out before treatment (T1), after treatment (T2), and on average 2.5 years posttreatment (T3) for the treatment group, and at similar time points and average follow-up of 1.8 years for the controls.

Results: 

The adjusted analysis indicated that the maxillary incisors were 2.3 mm more retracted in relation to A-Pog between T1 and T3 (β  =  2.31; 95% CI; 0.76, 3.87), whereas the mandibular incisors were 1.3 mm more protracted (β  =  1.34; 95% CI; 0.09, 2.59), and 5.9° more proclined to the mandibular plane (β  =  5.92; 95% CI; 1.43, 10.41) compared with controls. The lower lip appeared 1.4 mm more protrusive relative to the subnasale-soft tissue-Pog line throughout the observation period in the treated adolescents (β  =  1.43; 95% CI; 0.18, 2.67). There was a significant PAR score reduction over the entire follow-up period in the molar extraction group (β  =  −6.73; 95% CI; −10.7, −2.7). At T2, 65% of the subjects had maxillary midlines perfectly aligned with the face.

Conclusions: 

Unilateral M1 extraction in asymmetrical Class II cases may lead to favorable occlusal outcomes in the long term without harming the midline esthetics and soft tissue profile.
Initial Experiences of a Minimally Invasive Autopsy Service. A Report of the Techniques and Observations in the First 11 Cases
Authors: Whitby Elspeth H. , Offiah Amaka C. , Cohen Marta C.
Published: November 2014

Our goal was to set up a clinical service for minimally invasive postmortem examination for the fetal and neonatal age group. The minimally invasive service consisted of imaging, external review, placental examination, and ancillary tests that form part of the formal autopsy process. Eleven patients had imaging and relevant conditions at death successfully determined with the minimally invasive service. We conclude that a minimally invasive autopsy service for fetal and neonatal cases is possible and acceptable to patients and professionals.
A Novel Association of Biventricular Cardiac Noncompaction and Diabetic Embryopathy: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Woo Jennifer S. , Perez-Rosendahl Mari , Haydel Dana , Perens Gregory , Fishbein Michael C.
Published: November 2014

Diabetic embryopathy refers to a constellation of congenital malformations arising in the setting of poorly controlled maternal diabetes mellitus. Cardiac abnormalities are the most frequently observed findings, with a 5-fold risk over normal pregnancies. Although a diverse spectrum of cardiac defects has been documented, cardiac noncompaction morphology has not been associated with this syndrome. In this report, we describe a novel case of biventricular cardiac noncompaction in a neonate of a diabetic mother. The patient was a late preterm female with right anotia, caudal dysgenesis, multiple cardiac septal and aortic arch defects, and biventricular cardiac noncompaction. Examination of both ventricles demonstrated spongy myocardium with increased myocardial trabeculation greater than 50% left ventricular thickness and greater than 75% right ventricular thickness, with hypoplasia of the bilateral papillary muscles, consistent with noncompaction morphology. Review of the literature highlights the importance of gene expression and epigenomic regulation in cardiac embryogenesis.
Influence of an Awareness Program on Portuguese Middle and High School Students' Perceptions of Peers with Disabilities
Authors: Campos Maria J. , Ferreira José P. , Block Martin E.
Published: November 2014

The ongoing topic of attitudes toward inclusion of students with disabilities in Physical Education (PE) classes emphases the role of schools as a primary place where attitudes toward disabilities can be changed. The effect of an awareness program on students' attitudes toward the inclusion of peers with disabilities in PE was examined, as well as variables such as sex, age, previous contact with disability, and competitiveness. The participants were 509 students (235 girls, 274 boys; M age = 13.3 yr., SD = 1.1, range = 11–16), who attended middle and high Portuguese schools. The awareness intervention comprised a one-week program (2 PE classes, 90 min. and 45 min.). Attitudes were assessed before and after the intervention. The awareness program appeared to have a positive influence on changing students' attitudes toward inclusion in PE.
Effects of Inference Demands and Structural Complexity on Transitive Inference Processing: Comment on Lee and Kwon (2013)
Authors: Kwon Nayoung
Published: November 2014

In a recent study that investigated the processing of transitive inferences, Lee and Kwon (2013) concluded that only informational complexity leads to processing difficulty, that structural complexity affects earlier stages of processing than informational complexity, and that working memory resources are shared between sentence processing and other cognitive processes. Here, the evidence for these findings is scrutinized, and it is argued that there exist significant difficulties in drawing such conclusions based on the methodology and presented data.
Influence of Molybdenum Addition on Mechanical Properties of Low Carbon HSLA-100 Steel
Authors: Bogucki R. , Pytel S.M.
Published: November 2014

The results of mechanical properties and microstructure observation of low carbon copper bearing steel with high addition of molybdenum are presented in this paper. This steels were characterized by contents of molybdenum in the range from 1% to 3% wt. After the thermo -mechanical processing the steels were subsequently quenched and tempered at different temperatures (500-800 °C) for 1h. The changes of mechanical properties as function of tempering temperature were typical for the steel with the copper addition. The sudden drop of impact resistance after tempering from 575 °C to 600 °C was caused probably by precipitates of Laves phase of type Fe2Mo.
Analysis of the Covered Electrode Welding Process Stability on the Basis of Linear Regression Equation
Authors: Słania J. , Ślązak B.
Published: November 2014

The article presents the process of production of coated electrodes and their welding properties. The factors concerning the welding properties and the currently applied method of assessing are given. The methodology of the testing based on the measuring and recording of instantaneous values of welding current and welding arc voltage is discussed. Algorithm for creation of reference data base of the expert system is shown, aiding the assessment of covered electrodes welding properties. The stability of voltage–current characteristics was discussed. Statistical factors of instantaneous values of welding current and welding arc voltage waveforms used for determining of welding process stability are presented. The results of coated electrodes welding properties are compared. The article presents the results of linear regression as well as the impact of the independent variables on the welding process performance. Finally the conclusions drawn from the research are given.
Physical Modelling of the Plastic Working Processes of Zirconium Alloy Bars and Tubes in Thermomechanical Conditions
Authors: Kawałek A. , Dyja H. , Gałkin A.M. , Ozhmegov K.V. , Sawicki S.
Published: November 2014

The article presents results of physical modelling of processes of plastic working of the modified Zr-1%Nb zirconium alloy, obtained using different methods of the plastometric testing. The „Gleeble 3800‚ metallurgical process simulator, a DIL805 A/D dilatometer with a plastometric attachment, and a „Setaram‚ plastometer were used for testing. Based on the obtained testing results, the values of the yield stress and limiting plasticity of the tested alloy were determined for wide ranges of temperature variation (?=20÷950 °?) and strain rate variation (=0.1÷15.0 s-1) under continuous loading conditions. It was found that by using different testing methods, different alloy properties, characteristic for a given plastic working process, could be obtained.
Sintered Fe-Ni-Cu-Sn-C Alloys Made of Ball-Milled Powders
Authors: Romański A. , Tokarski T. , Tyrała D.
Published: November 2014

The main objective of this paper was to perform sinterability studies of ball-milled Fe-12%Ni-6.4%Cu-1.6%Sn-0.6%C powders. A mixture of precisely weighed amounts of elemental iron, nickel and graphite, and pre-alloyed 80/20 bronze powders was ball-milled for 8, 30 and 120 hours. After cold-pressing at 400 MPa the specimens were sintered at 900oC for 30 minutes in a reducing atmosphere and subsequently tested for density and hardness as well as subjected to structural studies using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis.

The obtained results showed that only the powder ball-milled for 120 hours yielded a near pore-free material after consolidation by cold pressing and pressureless sintering at 900°C. Assuch, it could have a potential to be used in production of diamond-impregnated wire saw beads.
Microstructure of Welded Joints of X5CrNiCuNb16-4 (17-4 PH) Martensitic Stainlees Steel After Heat Treatment
Authors: Ziewiec A. , ZieliŃska-Lipiec A. , Tasak E.
Published: November 2014

The paper presents rezults of microstructure (LM, TEM) investigation and hardness measurments of welded joints in martensitic precipitation hardened stainless steel containing copper, subjected to heat treatment. For the aging temperature up to 540 °C even for the very long times, the microstructure of the welded joints is similar to this one at lower temerature aging. After aging at 620 °C a distinct change of the microstructure was observed. Non-equilibrium solidification conditions of the weld metal, segregation and the diffusion of copper and the elements stablilizing the austenite cause the occurrence of the reverse transformation of the martensite into austenite as fast as just 1 hour at 620 °C. TEM investigations revealed the differences in dispersion of hardening copper precipitates after aging at temperature 620 °C for 1 and 4 hours.
Microstructural Changes in a High-Manganese Austenitic Fe-Mn-Al-C Steel
Authors: Witkowska M. , Zielińska-Lipiec A. , Kowalska J. , Ratuszek W.
Published: November 2014

Microstructural changes in the age-hardenable Fe-28wt.%Mn-9wt.%Al-1wt.%C steel during ageing at 550°C for various times have been investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The steel was produced in an induction furnace and the ingot, after homogenization at 1150°C for 3 hours under a protective argon atmosphere, was hot-rolled and subsequently cold-rolled up to 23% reduction. The sheet was then aged at 550°C for various times in an argon atmosphere and cooled in air. XRD analysis and TEM observations revealed a modulated structure and superlattice reflections produced by spinodal decomposition, which occurred during ageing at 550°C. Theexistence of satellites suggests that either (Fe, Mn)3AlCx carbides were formed within the austenite matrix by spinodal decomposition during cooling or chemical fluctuactions occurred between the (Fe, Mn)3AlCx carbides and the austenitic matrix.
Mathematical Model of the Processoof Pearlite Austenitization
Authors: Olejarczyk-Wożeńska I. , Adrian H. , Mrzygłód B.
Published: November 2014

The paper presents a mathematical model of the pearlite - austenite transformation. The description of this process uses the diffusion mechanism which takes place between the plates of ferrite and cementite (pearlite) as well as austenite. The process of austenite growth was described by means of a system of differential equations solved with the use of the finite difference method. The developed model was implemented in the environment of Delphi 4. The proprietary program allows for the calculation of the rate and time of the transformation at an assumed temperature as well as to determine the TTT diagram for the assigned temperature range.
Influence of Technological Parameters of Furane Mixtures on Shrinkage Creation in Ductile Cast Iron Castings
Authors: Vasková I. , Hrubovčáková M. , Malik J. , Eperješi Š.
Published: November 2014

Ductile cast iron (GS) has noticed great development in last decades and its boom has no analogue in history humankind. Ductile iron has broaden the use of castings from cast iron into areas, which where exclusively domains for steel castings. Mainly by castings, which weight is very high, is the propensity to shrinkage creation even higher. Shrinkage creation influences mainly material, construction of casting, gating system and mould. Therefore, the main realized experiment was to ascertain the influence of technological parameters of furane mixture on shrinkage creation in castings from ductile iron. Together was poured 12 testing items in 3 moulds forto determine and compare the impact of various technological parameters forms the propensity for shrinkage in the casting of LGG.
The Behavior of Bentonite Binders for the Elevated and High Temperatures
Authors: Jelínek P. , Dobosz St.M. , Beňo J. , Major-Gabryś K.
Published: November 2014

Bentonite binders rank among the most widespread applied systems for the production of molds. Their resistance to high temperatures (thermal stability) is mainly defined by genesis of binders, chemical composition and the content of Montmorillonite. The aim of this contribution is to compare selected bentonite binders commonly used in the foundries of the Central European region, in different ways of the thermostability determination as a result of changes of the mechanical strengths of the bentonite bonded sand mixture.
Gas Atmosphere Formed in Casting by Full Mold Process
Authors: Mocek J. , Chojecki A.
Published: November 2014

A test mold was designed to investigate the full mold process. Pressure changes in a gap developing between the pattern made of foamed polystyrene and the raising column of liquid alloy were determined. Studies were conducted pouring molds with cast iron and with AK11 silumin. It was found that pressure is significantly higher in the case of cast iron, due to a higher rate of pattern decomposition and more advanced dissociation of hydrocarbons. The increase in pressure was observed to have no significant effect on changes in the pouring rate as it was compensated by higher metallostatic pressure. The increase of pressure occurs immediately after the start of pouring, it reaches a maximum and then stabilizes or decreases smoothly as a result of the drop in metallostatic pressure. The temperature of pouring has a significant effect on the decomposition rate of hydrocarbons evolving from the metal. During pouring of cast iron, the presence of hydrogen was revealed. It was particularly evident across the gas-permeable coating, where the concentration has exceeded 40%. Hydrogen precipitation was accompanied by an evolution on the casting surface of considerable amounts of pyrolytic carbon. It was found that gases forming in the gap were totally free from oxygen.
Effect of Technological Parameters on the Quality and Dimensional Accuracy of Castings Manufactured by Patternless Process Technology
Authors: Krivoš E. , Pastirčák R. , Madaj R.
Published: November 2014

Submitted article deals with the effect of selected technological parameters on the quality and dimensional accuracy of prototype castings made by Patternless process technology. During experiments were used two types of molding compounds (foamed gypsum and compound based on silica sand and resin). Experiments were focused on optimization of cutting parameters in terms of efficiency, accuracy and possibilities to minimize tool wear. Article deals also with the dimensional and shape accuracy of the castings made by Z-Cast technology. The main aim of the research is to optimize Patternless process technology to such an extent, that achieved dimensional and shape accuracy will be comparable to castings made by the Z-Cast technology.
Initial Assessment of Abrasive Wear Resistance of Austempered Cast Iron with Vermicular Graphite
Authors: Soiński M. S. , Jakubus A.
Published: November 2014

The work compares the abrasive wear resistance of cast iron containing vermicular graphite, measured in the as-cast state and after austempering carried out at 290°C, 340°C, or 390°C. Theexaminations were performed by means of the T-01M tribological tester using the pin-on-disc configuration. Specimens used for examinations were taken from the end tabs of the tensile specimens, these being cut out of the test walls of the double-leg keel block test castings. Examinations proved that the austempering process increases the abrasive wear resistance of vermicular cast iron by several times as compared with the as-cast material. A tendency for a slight decrease in abrasive wear with an increase in austempering temperature can be stated. The coefficient of friction took a little higher values for cast iron after thermal treatment than for the as-cast material. The work was completed with roughness examination by means of electron scanning microscopy.
Microstructure and Microsegregation of an Inconel 625 Weld Overlay Produced on Steel Pipes by the Cold Metal Transfer Technique
Authors: Rozmus-Górnikowska M. , Cieniek Ł. , Blicharski M. , Kusiński J.
Published: November 2014

The aim of this work was to investigate the development of microstructure and variations in chemical composition in commercial Inconel 625 coatings on a ferritic-pearlitic steel overlaid by the CMT method.

The investigation showed that microsegregation occurring during the weld overlay solidification makes the dendrite cores to be richer in Ni, Fe and Cr and in the between dendrite arms in Mo and Nb. Niobium shows the strongest tendency to segregation during solidification; molybdenum tends to segregate less and chromium has the lowest tendency to segregation. Although Inconel 625 is a solid solution strengthened alloy, Nb and Mo-rich phases are formed in the between dendrite arms of weld overlays.
The Effect of Heat Treatment on the Properties of Zirconium - Carbon Steel Bimetal Produced By Explosion Welding
Authors: Prażmowski M. , Paul H. , Żok F.
Published: November 2014

This paper assesses the effect of various values of detonation velocity on the quality of the bond zone, and thus the properties of bimetal zirconium (Zr 700) - steel (P355NL). The research was carried out for as-bonded welds, i.e. immediately following explosion welding. The results of shearing, peeling and tensile tests as well as macro-scale structural analyses were presented. In order to determine the changes in the value of strain hardening, the microhardness measurements across the interface were carried out. Based on the performed analyses it can be claimed that, depending on the applied technological settings of welding, most cases displayed wavy bond with highly diversified parameters of the wave. The changes observed with the detonation velocity are non-monotonic. High detonation velocities favored the formation of waves with large height and length and strongly affect the increase of the volume of brittle melted zones. Increased volume of the melted regions results in strong decrease of strength properties of the clad. The analysis of strength test results allows claiming that a small volume of melted regions in the bond considerably improves the strength of the bond.

As a result of explosion welding, strain hardening of the joined materials occurs near the interface. In the case of clad fabricated using high technological parameters the increase of strengthening and the depth of its influence in the interface area is observed.
Improper Interpretation of Dilatometric Data for Cooling Transformation in Steels
Authors: Pawłowski B. , Bała P. , Dziurka R.
Published: November 2014

Dilatometry is the most commonly method of producing CCT diagrams and analyzing phase transformations during cooling (as well as transformations during heating) and it permits the real-time monitoring of the extent of reaction in terms of dimensional changes due to phase transformation. All modern dilatometers are fitted with computerised systems which collect dimensional change signals versus temperature to plot a dilatometric curve and also to calculate and plot the derivative of the relative dimensional change with respect to temperature. Unfortunately, elaborated by dilatometers manufacturers software, in many cases could lead to wrong interpretation of phase transformations during cooling.
Solution to an open problem about a transformation on the space of copulas
Authors: Durante Fabrizio , Fernández-Sánchez Juan , Trutschnig Wolfgang
Published: November 2014

We solve a recent open problem about a new transformation mapping the set of copulas into itself. The obtained mapping is characterized in algebraic terms and some limit results are proved.
The Application of Box–Cox Transformation to Determine the Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI), the Standardised Discharge Index (SDI) and to Identify Drought Events: Case Study in Eastern Kujawy (Central Poland)
Authors: Bartczak Arkadiusz , Glazik Ryszard , Tyszkowski Sebastian
Published: November 2014

The article presents the results of research into the transformation of series of hydro-meteorological data for determining dry periods with the Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI) and the Standardised Discharge Index (SDI). Time series from eight precipitation stations and five series of river discharge data in Eastern Kujawy (central Poland) were analysed for 1951–2010. The frequency distribution of the series for their convergence with the normal distribution was tested with the Shapiro–Wilk test and homogeneity with the Bartlett's test. The transformation of the series was done with the Box–Cox technique, which made it possible to homogenise the series in terms of variance. In Poland, the technique has never been used to determine the SPI. After the transformation the distributions of virtually all series complied with the normal distribution and were homogeneous. Moreover, a statistically significant correlation between the δ transformation parameter and the skewness of the series of monthly precipitation was observed. It was similar for the series of mean monthly discharges in the winter half-year and the hydrological year. The analysis indicates an alternate occurrence of dry and wet periods both in case of precipitation and run-offs. Drought periods coincided with low flow periods. Thus, the fluctuations tend to affect the development of agriculture more than long-term ones.
Analysis of Criteria for Delimiting Less Favoured Mountain Areas (LFA)
Authors: Kowalczyk Agnieszka , Kuźniar Antoni , Kostuch Marek
Published: November 2014

The objective of this work was to analyse and establish the criteria for the course of the elevation boundaries applied in delimiting of less favoured areas (LFA) under mountain and foothill conditions. This aim was achieved by verifying of the structural data on land use in relation to an altitude a.s.l. Based on the information collected on the areas in the particular land categories, and in order to assess land use, a database was created for 99 mountain communes (NUTS-5). The regulation by the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (2009) distinguishes the areas of less favourable farming (LFA, mountain), where over 50% of the agricultural land (AL) is located above an altitude of 500 m a.s.l. Previous studies have shown that the adopted limit of the average elevation for mountain LFA is too restrictive for the Polish conditions and needs correction. This is particularly clear in the case of agricultural land elevated above sea level. Support for rural development is necessary because the economic importance of agriculture in the Polish mountain and foothill regions is decreasing, and these areas are characterized by a considerably limited land use, under conditions of higher production costs. This is to do with terrain elevation a.s.l. and with the presence of large areas of significant land slopes, making it too to use normal equipment.
Evaluation of Relationship Between Air Pollutant Concentration and Meteorological Elements in Winter Months
Authors: Żyromski Andrzej , Biniak-Pieróg Małgorzata , Burszta-Adamiak Ewa , Zamiar Zenon
Published: November 2014

The paper presents the evaluation of the relation between meteorological elements and air pollutants’ concentrations. The analysis includes daily concentrations of pollutants and variation of meteorological elements such as wind speed, air temperature and relative humidity, precipitation and total radiation at four monitoring stations located in the province of Lower Silesia in individual months of the winter half-year (November–April, according to hydrological year classification) of 2005–2009. Data on air quality and meteorological elements came from the results of research conducted in the automatic net of air pollution monitoring conducted in the range of the State Environment Monitoring. The effect of meteorological elements on analysed pollutant concentration was determined using the correlation and regression analysis at significance level α < 0.05. The occurrence of maximum concentration of NO, NO2, NOX, SO2 and PM10 occurred in the coldest months during winter season (January, February and December) confirmed the strong influence of “low emission” on air quality. Among the meteorological factors assessed wind speed was most often selected component in step wise regression procedure, then air temperature, less air relative humidity and solar radiation. In the case of a larger number of variables describing the pollution in the atmosphere, in all analyzed winter seasons the most common set of meteorological elements were wind speed and air temperature.
Microstructures of magnetron sputtered Fe–Au thin films
Authors: Zamponi Christiane , Schürmann Ulrich , Jurgeleit Till , Kienle Lorenz , Quandt Eckhard
Published: November 2014

Freestanding films of highly pure iron and gold multilayers were fabricated and characterized for their intended use as biodegradable implant materials. These samples were deposited using magnetron sputtering on unheated substrates. This technology allows the combination of various non-compounding materials. After annealing for 2 h at 685 °C and 850 °C, respectively to homogenize the multilayer, the microstructures were investigated using X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and scanning transmission electron microscopy. Due to the annealing, the multilayered microstructure converts into a new multiphase system consisting of an iron matrix and two different kinds of gold morphologies: segregations along grain boundaries and nanosized core–shell like precipitates.
Structural, optical and magnetic properties of nanocrystalline zinc ferrite particles from glycine assisted combustion: Effect of Sr2+ dopant
Authors: Tholkappiyan R. , Vishista K.
Published: November 2014

Spinel type pure and Sr2+ doped zinc ferrite nanoparticles were prepared by glycine assisted combustion. The resultant nanoparticles were found to be highly crystalline with cubic crystal structure. The structure and the corresponding changes in the tetrahedral and octahedral bond stretching were investigated. The chemical elements and oxidation states of these nanoparticles were determined and the elemental compositions of synthesized nanoparticles established. It was observed that the optical band gap values increased from 2.43 eV to 2.49 eV as Sr2+ concentration increased. The morphology, chemical elements and composition of the prepared ferrites were examined. The magnetic behavior of these nanoferrites was studied and corresponding changes in the saturation magnetization, coercivity and remanent magnetization were analyzed.
Wear behaviour of Al/(Al2O3 + ZrB2 + TiB2) hybrid composites fabricated by hot pressing
Authors: Farhadinia Faranak , Sedghi Arman
Published: November 2014

The dry sliding wear behaviour of Al/(Al2O3 + ZrB2 + TiB2) hybrid composite was tested by using a pin-on-disc testing machine at room temperature and 300 °C. Hybrid reinforcement was fabricated by mechanically activated combustion synthesis, and the composites were prepared by hot pressing of aluminium powder and hybrid reinforcement. The effect of sliding distance, hybrid reinforcement content and temperature on the wear properties of the composites has been investigated. For comparison, the same tests were conducted on Al/Al2O3 composite and pure aluminium. Hybrid composites have higher wear resistance than pure aluminium and Al/Al2O3 composites at room temperature and 300 °C. A study of wear surfaces showed that plastic deformation induced wear and adhesive wear are the dominant mechanisms at room and high temperature, respectively.
Will Global Climate Change Alter Fundamental Human Immune Reactivity: Implications for Child Health?
Authors: Swaminathan Ashwin , Lucas Robyn , Harley David , McMichael Anthony
Published: November 2014

The human immune system is an interface across which many climate change sensitive exposures can affect health outcomes. Gaining an understanding of the range of potential effects that climate change could have on immune function will be of considerable importance, particularly for child health, but has, as yet, received minimal research attention. We postulate several mechanisms whereby climate change sensitive exposures and conditions will subtly impair aspects of the human immune response, thereby altering the distribution of vulnerability within populations—particularly for children—to infection and disease. Key climate change-sensitive pathways include under-nutrition, psychological stress and exposure to ambient ultraviolet radiation, with effects on susceptibility to infection, allergy and autoimmune diseases. Other climate change sensitive exposures may also be important and interact, either additively or synergistically, to alter health risks. Conducting directed research in this area is imperative as the potential public health implications of climate change-induced weakening of the immune system at both individual and population levels are profound. This is particularly relevant for the already vulnerable children of the developing world, who will bear a disproportionate burden of future adverse environmental and geopolitical consequences of climate change.
Three-Dimensional Mapping of mRNA Export through the Nuclear Pore Complex
Authors: Schnell Steven , Ma Jiong , Yang Weidong
Published: November 2014

The locations of transcription and translation of mRNA in eukaryotic cells are spatially separated by the nuclear envelope (NE). Plenty of nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) embedded in the NE function as the major gateway for the export of transcribed mRNAs from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. Whereas the NPC, perhaps one of the largest protein complexes, provides a relatively large channel for macromolecules to selectively pass through it in inherently three-dimensional (3D) movements, this channel is nonetheless below the diffraction limit of conventional light microscopy. A full understanding of the mRNA export mechanism urgently requires real-time mapping of the 3D dynamics of mRNA in the NPC of live cells with innovative imaging techniques breaking the diffraction limit of conventional light microscopy. Recently, super-resolution fluorescence microscopy and single-particle tracking (SPT) techniques have been applied to the study of nuclear export of mRNA in live cells. In this review, we emphasize the necessity of 3D mapping techniques in the study of mRNA export, briefly summarize the feasibility of current 3D imaging approaches, and highlight the new features of mRNA nuclear export elucidated with a newly developed 3D imaging approach combining SPT-based super-resolution imaging and 2D-to-3D deconvolution algorithms.
Potential Roles of BMP9 in Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Bi Jianjun , Ge Shengfang
Published: November 2014

Liver fibrosis is a common phenomenon that is associated with several pathologies and is characterized by excessive extracellular matrix deposition that leads to progressive liver dysfunction. Bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9) is the most recently discovered member of the BMP family. BMP9 bound with high affinity to activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1) and endoglin in non-parenchymal liver cells. In addition, BMP9 activated Smad1/Smad5/Smad8 and induced the expression of the target genes inhibitor of differentiation 1 (Id1), hepcidin, Snail and the co-receptor endoglin in liver cells. Although the role of BMP9 in liver fibrosis is currently poorly understood, the presence of BMP9-activated proteins and its target genes have been reported to be associated with liver fibrosis development. This review summarizes the indirect connection between BMP9 and liver fibrosis, with a focus on the BMP9 signaling pathway members ALK1, endoglin, Id1, hepcidin and Snail. The observations on the role of BMP9 in regulating liver fibrosis may help in understanding the pathology mechanisms of liver disease. Furthermore, BMP9 could be served as a potent biomarker and the target of potential therapeutic drugs to treat hepatocytes fibrosis.
Characterization of Flavonoid Glycosides from Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) Crude Seeds by HPLC–DAD–ESI/MS Analysis
Authors: Benayad Zakia , Gómez-Cordovés Carmen , Es-Safi Nour
Published: November 2014

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is a medicinal plant which is widely used for its pharmacological properties. In this study the phenolic composition of fenugreek crude seeds originating from Morocco has been investigated. Extraction was performed from defatted seeds by a hydromethanolic solution using an Accelerated Solvent Extractor. HPLC technique coupled to negative ion electrospray ionization mass spectrometry and diode array detection was employed to identify the polyphenol in the obtained extract. The obtained results allowed the detection of 32 phenolic compounds among which various flavonoid glycosides and phenolic acids have been tentatively identified on the basis of their UV and MS spectra, and comparisons with standards when available, as well as with literature data. A systematic study of the obtained MS spectra and the observed fragmentation showed that most of the identified compounds were acylated and non-acylated flavonoids with apigenin, luteolin and kaempferol as aglycons. Hydroxycinnamic acids mostly dominated by caffeic acid derivatives were also detected. The quantitative analysis of the identified compounds showed that the phenolic composition of the studied crude fenugreek seeds was predominantly acylated and non-acylated flavone derivatives with apigenin as the main aglycon.
Quality of Vegetable Oil Prior to Fortification Is an Important Criteria to Achieve a Health Impact
Authors: Andarwulan Nuri , Gitapratiwi Desty , Laillou Arnaud , Fitriani Dwi , Hariyadi Purwiyatno , Moench-Pfanner Regina , Martianto Drajat
Published: November 2014

Unbranded palm cooking oil has been fortified for several years and can be found in the market with different oxidation levels. This study aimed to investigate the stability and shelf life of unbranded, bulk, vitamin A-fortified palm oils with the most commonly observed oxidation levels in Indonesia. Three types of cooking oils were tested: (i) cooking oil with a peroxide value (PV) below 2 mEq O2/kg (PO1); (ii) cooking oil with a PV around 4 mEq O2/kg (PO2); and (iii) cooking oil with a PV around 9 mEq O2/kg (PO3). The oil shelf life was determined by using accelerated shelf life testing (ASLT), where the product was stored at 60, 75 and 90 °C, and then PV, free fatty acid and vitamin A concentration in the oil samples were measured. The results showed that PO1 had a shelf life of between 2–3 months, while PO2’s shelf life was a few weeks and PO3’s only a few days. Even given those varying shelf lives, the vitamin A loss in the oils was still acceptable, at around 10%. However, the short shelf life of highly oxidized cooking oil, such as PO3, might negatively impact health, due to the potential increase of free radicals of the lipid peroxidation in the oil. Based on the results, the Indonesian government should prohibit the sale of highly-oxidized cooking oil. In addition, government authorities should promote and endorse the fortification of only cooking oil with low peroxide levels to ensure that fortification is not associated with any health issues associated with high oxidation levels of the cooking oil.
Senescence-Associated Vacuoles, a Specific Lytic Compartment for Degradation of Chloroplast Proteins?
Authors: Carrión Cristian , Martínez Dana , Costa M. , Guiamet Juan
Published: November 2014

Degradation of chloroplasts and chloroplast components is a distinctive feature of leaf senescence. In spite of its importance in the nutrient economy of plants, knowledge about the mechanism(s) involved in the breakdown of chloroplast proteins is incomplete. A novel class of vacuoles, “senescence-associated vacuoles” (SAVs), characterized by intense proteolytic activity appear during senescence in chloroplast-containing cells of leaves. Since SAVs contain some chloroplast proteins, they are candidate organelles to participate in chloroplast breakdown. In this review we discuss the characteristics of SAVs, and their possible involvement in the degradation of Rubisco, the most abundant chloroplast protein. Finally, SAVs are compared with other extra-plastidial protein degradation pathways operating in senescing leaves.