bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Weed Management Programs and Response of FG72 Soybean to HPPD-Inhibiting Herbicides
Authors: Schultz John L. , Weber Michael , Allen Jayla , Bradley Kevin W.
Published: June 2015

Field experiments were conducted at two locations in Missouri in 2012 and 2013 to evaluate herbicide programs in 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD)-inhibitor-resistant soybean, referred to as FG72 soybean, and their tolerance to four HPPD-inhibiting herbicides. At the Columbia location, PRE followed by (fb) POST and two-pass POST treatments provided 97% or greater control of all weeds except ivyleaf morningglory. At Moberly in 2012, PRE fb POST treatments provided 95% or greater control and 100% biomass reduction (BR) of glyphosate-resistant (GR) waterhemp, with the exception of isoxaflutole at 0.04 kg ha−1plusS-metolachlor at 0.6 kg ha−1plus metribuzin at 0.2 kg ha−1. In 2013, PRE fb POST treatments provided greater than 89% control and 93% BR. Two-pass POST treatments of isoxaflutole plus glyphosate always provided greater control and BR of GR waterhemp compared with glyphosate fb glyphosate. However, at Columbia, where glyphosate-susceptible weeds were present, there were no differences in control or BR between two-pass POST treatments. In the soybean tolerance experiment, isoxaflutole provided the lowest levels of injury. Applications of tembotrione at the 1× rate resulted in the greatest injury in both years. Topramezone at the 1× rate always provided less injury than tembotrione, but was always similar in BR. The 2× rates increased soybean injury over the 1× rate for the third trifoliate (V3) application, but not for the PRE and first-flower (R1) applications. V3 and R1 applications of isoxaflutole and mesotrione resulted in similar injury, height reduction, and BR to soybean 28 d after application in 2012 and 2013. Overall these results indicate that FG72 soybean could allow the use of HPPD-inhibiting herbicides such as mesotrione PRE along with isoxaflutole PRE and POST to provide an additional herbicide mechanism of action that was not previously available in soybean.
Pre-service Science Teachers’ Views on Conceptual Change Strategies and Practices Carried out
Authors: Aydın Güliz
Published: May 2015

This research was conducted to determine pre-service science teachers’ views related to misconceptions and conceptual change strategies at an urban university in Aegean Region, Turkey. It was a 5-week study with 28 students. Before the implementation, students were given a test which consisted of open-ended questions aiming to determine the pre-service science teachers’ ideas about misconceptions and conceptual change strategies. On the first week of the study, students were given information on how to identify and remove the misconceptions by using conceptual change strategies. Different kinds of activities based on conceptual change strategies were also presented to them. Seven groups were formed with 28 people and they were asked to prepare activities based on conceptual change strategies related to a unit in middle school science curriculum. They chose a unit and prepared activities for two weeks. Secondly, they presented their activities in the classrom during two weeks. After presentations, a test which had the same questions with the 1st test was given to the pre-service science teachers. Also the 2nd test had three different questions, which was related to their opinions about the applications from the 1st test. The results of tests were analyzed qualitatively. Before the study, pre-service science teachers didn’t know how to identify and remove misconceptions exactly. Thanks to this study, they learned conceptual change strategies and their applications. After the study, they said that they liked the activities based on conceptual change strategies.
Pre-service Teachers’ Perceptions of Technology and Multiliteracy Within the Inclusive Classroom
Authors: Corkett Julie , Benevides Tina
Published: May 2015

The increased use of technology in today’s schools has created new possibilities for pre-service teachers and their students. Rather than limiting the use of technology based on student ability, it is now possible for pre-service teachers to develop integrated multiliteracy lessons that integrate technology and enhance student learning. Technology in the form of apps for iPads, iPods, and desktop computers enable teachers to achieve this goal; however, pre-service teacher’s perceptions of technology and teacher self-efficacy in relation to technology may influence whether technology is integrated into their lessons. This paper examines 144 primary/junior pre-service teacher’s self-efficacy and perceptions of technology before and after developing an app based multiliteracy lesson plan. Findings suggest that new teachers were more comfortable with the idea of integrating technology into their lessons after researching and completing a lesson plan focusing on the use of apps within an inclusive classroom.
Testing your Tests: Reliability Issues of Academic English Exams
Authors: Oruç Ertürk Nesrin
Published: May 2015

A testing unit or a tester when writing exam questions generally have millions of issues in mind such as, the reliability, validity, clarity of instructions, design, layout, organization, quality, and many more. However, testing units preparing tests for EAP (English for Academic Purposes) has some other concerns about their exams such as, appropriate topics for listening and reading texts, authenticity, etc. Test writers also have to consider the focus on language skills development, the full coverage of skills, effective learning tasks and the variation in the activity types for all faculties. The main purpose of the study in hand is to investigate the quality of the tests written for the freshman students of Izmir University of Economics. One of the other main purposes of the study is to evaluate the EAP tests written for this institution according to Olaofe’s (1994) eight criterion for good EAP tests.
Proyectar la ciudad para hacer la guerra
Authors: Reguera Rodríguez Antonio
Published: June 2015

Todo poder que se concibe y pretende manifestarse en términos absolutos lo hace impregnado de contenidos marciales. En la España de postguerra estos contenidos están presentes en el funcionamiento de las instituciones, en la práctica política y en la organización del espacio, incluído el espacio urbano. Para validar esta tesis se comprueba cómo dichos contenidos marciales se hacen explícitos en los modelos o concepciones generales de la ciudad -por ejemplo, en el modelo militar de ciudad nuclear-, en la proyección de su estructura interna y en la resolución de las contradicciones sociales que aparecen en el espacio urbano, a través de los denominados planes de defensa para el control social de la ciudad. El propósito final será demostrar que en nuestras sociedades las influencias o los determinantes militares en la organización del espacio urbano son de frecuencia constante aunque pueda variar su intensidad y aparecer más o menos explícitas sus manifestaciones formales.
Los glaciares rocosos de la Sierra del Suspirón (León)
Authors: García de Celis Alipio
Published: June 2015

En el sector culminante de la Sierra del Suspirón (borde Sur de la Cordillera Cantábrica, provincia de León) se desarrollaron, en la fase final del proceso de retroceso glaciar, una serie de formas de modelado características de la transición entre los sistemas morfoclimáticos glaciar y periglaciar: una morrena de nevero y dos glaciares rocosos. Se analizan sus características y dimensiones, se determina su origen y se establece su relación con las formas glaciares y periglaciares entre las que se imbrican. Se ofrece una representación gráfica y cartográfica de las mismas.
Población y colonización en España: 1939-1973
Authors: Paniagua Mazorra Ángel
Published: June 2015

Los problemas de tipo socioeconómico deben ser los de más peso, en principio, en todos los programas de colonización. En el presente estudio se plantean los supuestos ideológicos sobre la población rural, el peso que tienen las diferentes corrientes de opinión al respecto, y el papel de la actividad de colonización. En una segunda parte, y tomando como base un análisis detallado de fuentes primarias, se analizan los planteamientos demográficos de la colonización agraria en España, revisando las tesis comúnmente aceptadas.
El Golfo de Venezuela: un espacio geográfico que suscita viejas disputas territoriales
Authors: Zurrón Cobreros Modesta
Published: June 2015

La reclamación colombiana de parte del Golfo de Venezuela no es un hecho aislado, ni actual; ya que se ciñe a toda una serie de acuerdos y tratados que se inician en 1830.

Colombia reivindica su soberanía sobre una zona de vital importancia económica y geoestratégica para Venezuela, que le aportaría, en caso de incluirla en su espacio político, unos beneficios económicos considerables.

La actual crisis por la que atraviesan los dos países, la falta de una política fronteriza serie y, evidentemente, la codicia territorial, no favorecen en nada a este conflicto.
Uncertainty in calibrating generalised Pareto distribution to rainfall extremes in Lake Victoria basin
Authors: Onyutha Charles , Willems Patrick
Published: June 2015

Uncertainty in the calibration of the generalised Pareto distribution (GPD) to rainfall extremes is assessed based on observed and large number of global climate model rainfall time series for nine locations in the Lake Victoria basin (LVB) in Eastern Africa. The class of the GPD suitable for capturing the tail behaviour of the distribution and extreme quantiles is investigated. The best parameter estimation method is selected following comparison of the method of moments, maximum likelihood, L-moments, and weighted linear regression in quantile plots (WLR) to quantify uncertainty in the extreme intensity quantiles by employing the Jackknife method and nonparametric percentile bootstrapping in a combined way. The normal tailed GPD was found suitable. Although the performance of each parameter estimation method was acceptable in a number of evaluation criteria, generally the WLR technique appears to be more robust than others. The difference between upper and lower limits of the 95% confidence intervals expressed as a percentage of the empirical 10-year rainfall intensity quantile ranges from 9.25 up to 59.66%. The assessed uncertainty will be useful in support of risk based planning, design and operation of water engineering and water management applications related to floods in the LVB.
The Effects of Task Interdependence, Team Cooperation, and Team Conflict on Job Performance
Authors: Lee Chun-chang , Lin Yu-hsin , Huang Hsin-Chung , Huang Wei-wen , Teng Hsu-hung
Published: June 2015

Using a linear structural model, we investigated the impact of task interdependence, task and relationship conflict in a team, and team cooperation on job performance of real estate brokers in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. The empirical results showed that task interdependence significantly and
positively influenced team cooperation and job performance, and significantly and negatively influenced relationship conflict. Relationship conflict significantly and negatively influenced team cooperation; task conflict positively and significantly influenced job performance; team cooperation
significantly and positively influenced job performance; and trust significantly moderated the effect of task conflict on job performance. It is clear from these results that, when investigating the factors affecting real estate brokers' job performance, it is necessary to consider the effects
of task interdependence, task conflict, relationship conflict, and team cooperation, as well as the moderating effect of trust.
Social Support, Social Comparison, and Career Adaptability: A Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Wang Zhongming , Fu Ying
Published: June 2015

Our aim in this study was to identify the social factors that underpin the career adaptability of college graduates in China by examining the effects of social support and career self-efficacy on career adaptability among a sample of 879 Chinese college graduates. We also emphasized
the moderating role of social comparison in influencing this relationship. The results showed that, (a) social support enhanced career adaptability, (b) career self-efficacy played a mediating role in the relationship between social support and career adaptability, and (c) social comparison
orientation moderated the mediation model; specifically, a high social comparison orientation weakened the enhancing effect of social support on career self-efficacy and career adaptability. Theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
The fracture risk assessment tool (FRAX® score) in subclinical hyperthyroidism
Authors: Polovina Snezana , Micic Dragan , Miljic Dragana , Milic Natasa , Micic Dusan , Popovic Vera
Published: June 2015

Background/Aim. The Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX? score) is the
10-year estimated risk calculation tool for bone fracture that includes
clinical data and hip bone mineral density measured by dual-energy x-ray
absorptiometry (DXA). The aim of this cross-sectional study was to elucidate
the ability of the FRAX? score in discriminating between bone fracture
positive and negative pre- and post-menopausal women with subclinical
hyperthyroidism. Methods. The bone mineral density (by DXA), thyroid
stimulating hormone (TSH) level, free thyroxine (fT4) level, thyroid
peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) titre, osteocalcin and beta-cross-laps were
measured in 27 pre- and post-menopausal women with newly discovered
subclinical hyperthyroidism [age 58.85 ? 7.83 years, body mass index (BMI)
27.89 ? 3.46 kg/m2, menopause onset in 46.88 ? 10.21 years] and 51 matched
euthyroid controls (age 59.69 ? 5.72 years, BMI 27.68 ? 4.66 kg/m2, menopause
onset in 48.53 ? 4.58 years). The etiology of subclinical hyperthyroisims was
autoimmune thyroid disease or toxic goiter. FRAX? score calculation was
performed in both groups. Results. In the group with subclinical
hyperthyroidism the main FRAX? score was significantly higher than in the
controls (6.50 ? 1.58 vs 4.35 ? 1.56 respectively; p = 0.015). The FRAX?
score for hip was also higher in the evaluated group than in the controls
(1.33 ? 3.92 vs 0.50 ? 0.46 respectively; p = 0.022). There was no
correlations between low TSH and fracture risk (p > 0.05). The ability of
the FRAX? score in discriminating between bone fracture positive and negative
pre- and postmenopausal female subjects (p < 0.001) is presented by the area
under the curve (AUC) plotted via ROC analysis. The determined FRAX score
cut-off value by this analysis was 6%, with estimated sensitivity and
specificity of 95% and 75.9%, respectively. Conclusion. Pre- and
postmenopausal women with subclinical hyperthyroidism have higher FRAX?
scores and thus greater risk for low-trauma hip fracture than euthyroid
premenopausal women. Our results point to the use of FRAX? calculator in
monitoring pre- and postmenopausal women with subclinical hyperthyroidism to
detect subjects with high fracture risk in order to prevent further
fractures.
Effect of powder granulation on hydrogen transport rate and hydrogen solubility in LaNi5-paraffin composite material
Authors: Kukuła I. , Bala H.
Published: June 2015

On the basis of potentiostatic discharge method, the diffusion rate of atomic hydrogen as well as its solubility in LaNi5 crystal lattice have been evaluated for three LaNi5 powder - paraffin composite electrodes, with different LaNi5 powder particle diameters: 0 - 20 μm, 20 - 50 μm and 50 - 100 μm. The chronoamperommetric tests have been carried out in strong alkaline (6 M KOH), deaerated solution, at 25°C. Apparent hydrogen diffusion coefficients have been determined using Crank’s spherical diffusion model. It has been shown, that increase of particle size is prone to increase of hydrogen apparent diffusion coefficient and to decrease of hydrogen concentration in the solid phase. To explain the granulation effect on hydrogenation ability parameters, the inhibition of hydrogen transport by surfacial corrosion products present on powder particles has been assumed.
Structure and mechanical properties of spark plasma sintered TiN-based nanocomposites
Authors: Zgalat-Lozynskyy O. , Herrmann M. , Ragulya A. , Andrzejczuk M. , Polotai A.
Published: June 2015

Consolidation of commercially available titanium nitride nanostructured powder as well as nanocomposite powders in the Si3N4-TiN and TiN-TiB2 systems have been performed by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) in the temperature range from 1200°C to 1550°C. The effect of non-linear heating and loading regimes on high melting point nanocomposites consolidation has been investigated.
High strength silicon bronze (C65500) obtained by hydrostatic extrusion
Authors: Kulczyk M. , Skiba J. , Przybysz S. , Pachla W. , Bazarnik P. , Lewandowska M.
Published: June 2015

C65500 is a high strength engineering alloy that has excellent resistance to a wide range of corrosive environments. Combination of corrosion resistance, strength, and formability place it among the most widely used copper alloys. In the present study, a C65500 alloy was subjected to severe plastic deformation by hydrostatic extrusion at room temperature with goal to increase its strength by grain refinement without modification of the chemical composition. Cumulative hydrostatic extrusion was applied with a total true strain of 4.1. The microstructure of SPD samples was evaluated by transmission electron microscopy. The size of grains was quantitatively described. The resulting mechanical properties were determined in tensile tests and via microhardness measurements. The results show that the applied cumulative HE route, leads to a substantial grain size refinement accompanied by high increase in strength. In comparison to commercial alloy after conventional plastic treatment, ultimate tensile strength and yield strength were higher by 45% and 130% respectively.
Mechanical properties of titanium processed by hydrostatic extrusion
Authors: Topolski K. , Garbacz H. , Wiecinski P. , Pachla W. , Kurzydłowski K.J.
Published: June 2015

The mechanical properties of titanium Grade 2 subjected to the hydrostatic extrusion technique (HE) were investigated. The hydrostatic extrusion technique is a method which refines the titanium grains to a nano-metric size.

Compared with coarse grained titanium (CG-Ti), nanocrystalline titanium (NC-Ti) is characterized by a much higher yield stress, tensile strength and microhardness. The yield stress of NC-Ti determined in tensile tests is higher than that measured in compression test. The Young modulus of NC-Ti is slightly lower than that of CG-Ti.
Microstructure Characterization of High Carbon Alloy from the Ni-Ta-Al-Co-Cr System / Charakterystyka Mikrostruktury Wysokowęglowego Stopu Z Układu Ni-Ta-Al-Co-Cr
Authors: Bała P.
Published: June 2015

In the present work results of investigations of the new high carbon alloy from the Ni-Ta-Al-Co-Cr system are presented. The alloy has been designed to have a good tribological properties at elevated temperatures. The chemical composition of this material was designed to obtain a matrix strengthening by the precipitation of γ’ phase (Ni3(Al,Ta)) and the primary carbides volume fraction above 25%. The primary carbides should remain stable in the microstructure, regardless of the heat treatment, in order to increase a wear resistance. The results of microstructure investigations in the as-cast condition are presented. The type of phases appearing in the microstructure was determined and their morphology described. The main microstructure components of the investigated Ni-based alloy with high carbon, cobalt and chromium content are: the γ phase, which constitutes a matrix, the γ’ phase, which occurs as fine globular precipitates and the primary Ta and Cr carbides (of MC and M7C3 type - respectively).
Influence of the Carbon Content on the Kinetics of Phase Transformations During Continuous Heating from As-Quenched State in a Cr-Mn-Mo Model Alloys / Wpływ Zawartości Węgla Na Kinetykę Przemian Fazowych Podczas Nagrzewania Ze Stanu Zahartowanego W Stopach Modelowych Cr-Mn-Mo
Authors: Dziurka R. , Pacyna J.
Published: June 2015

The presented work concerns the research on the kinetics of phase transformations during continuous heating from as-quenched state of three Cr-Mn-Mo model alloys with a different carbon content. The kinetics of phase transformations during continuous heating of investigated alloys was presented on the CHT (Continuous, Heating, Transformation) diagrams.

The CHT diagrams were made on the grounds of dilatograms recorded for quenched samples, heated with various rates. Also the methodology of the dilatometric samples preparation and the method of the characteristic points determination was described.

The investigated alloys are the model alloys. Taking into account their chemical compositions the possibility of improving their properties by means of the heat treatment can be expected. The investigations of the carbon influence on microstructures of model alloys with Cr-Mn-Mo were carried out. Broadening the knowledge on the carbon influence on the kinetics of phase transformations during continuous heating from as-quenched state, will help in designing new alloys with a better properties.
Determination of Critical Points of Hypoeutectoid Steels / Wyznaczanie Punktów Krytycznych W Stalach Podeutektoidalnych
Authors: Pawłowski B.
Published: June 2015

The paper presents a new approach to interpretation of hypoeutectoid steel dilatograms upon heating between the austenite start and austenite finish temperatures. The proposed derivative curve separation method yields data which accords with the experimental results. Besides the new method appears a useful tool whereby it becomes possible to confirm the evidence reported earlier in literature that when a hypoeutectoid steel heats up to between the A1 and the A3 both ferrite and pearlite start to transform into austenite almost at the same time.
Effect of Crystallization on the Electrical Resistance and Structure of Amorphous Fe-Co-Cr-B-Si Alloys / Wpływ Krystalizacji Na Oporność Elektryczną I Strukturę Amorficznych Stopów Fe-Co-Cr-B-Si
Authors: Solomon H. , Solomon N.
Published: June 2015

The goal of this paper is to present the influence of temperature variation and iron substitution with Co on the structure and electrical properties of amorphous Fe75-xCoxCr1B7Si17 alloys (where x=1, 4, 7, and 10 at.%), obtained by melt-spinning technique.

The electrical resistivity of the samples was measured by using a usual four-probe method from -160°C to 750°C. The electrical resistivity was also measured at room temperature for the amorphous Fe75-xCoxCr1B7Si17 ribbons annealed at various temperatures for different holding time.

The annealed samples were also investigated by Vickers microhardness test. The amorphous structure of tested materials was examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Mossbauer spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) methods. Experimental results confirmed the utility of applied investigation methods and the influence of the Co content and annealing process on the crystallization, structure and electrical properties of examined amorphous alloys.
Influence of Chemical Composition and Production Process Parameters on the Structure and Properties of Silver Based Composites With ZnO / Ocena Wpływu Składu Chemicznego Oraz Parametrów Wytwarzania Na Strukturę I Właściwości Kompozytów Na Osnowie Srebra Z Udziałem ZnO
Authors: Juszczyk B. , Kulasa J. , Gubernat A. , Malec W. , Ciura L. , Malara M. , Wierzbicki Ł. , Gołębiewska-Kurzawska J.
Published: June 2015

The paper shows results of the study into influence of chemical composition and consolidation process conditions on changes of physical and electrical properties of silver-based composites used in production of electric contacts. The investigations addressed influence of content of zinc oxide (ZnO) and modifying additions in a form of silver tungstate (Ag2WO4) and silver molybdate (Ag2MoO4) on changes in density, porosity and electrical conductivity. Density of the produced compacts was established by geometric method. The results of density measurements were used in determination of total porosity of sinters. Also arc erosion was examined to determine applicability of the produced composites for production of electric contacts. The erosion was measured as mass loss of individual materials after specific number of connections. The studies were conducted at current intensity of 10 A and voltage of 500V. The scope of the studies covered also evaluation of kinetics of sintering of the examined composites and determination of the mechanisms of mass transport in the process. Studies into kinetics of sintering were conducted in the air atmosphere at constant temperature of 900°C.

Production of the examined composite materials consisted of mechanical synthesis of powders of silver, zinc oxide and silver tungstate and molybdate, and then their consolidation by two-sided pressing and subsequent sintering. In cold pressing various pressures were applied 200, 300 and 400 MPa. Sintering was performed with a partial participation of liquid phase in temperature of 900°C. Also additional two-sided pressing was applied under pressure of 500 MPa and stress-relieving recrystallization annealing was performed as the final operation.
Properties of Silver Brazing Alloys Containing Lithium / Właściwości Spoiw Srebrnych Do Lutowania Twardego Z Dodatkiem Litu
Authors: Gąsior W. , Winiowski A.
Published: June 2015

The analysis of the influence of lithium on wetting properties of Ag-Cu brazing alloys and the shear strength of stainless steel/braze/stainless steel joint was conducted. The brazing alloys of designations and composition according to ANSI/AWS A5.8: BAg-8a (71÷3 wt.% Ag, 0.25÷0.50 wt.% Li, Cu) and BAg-19 (92÷93 wt.% Ag, 0.15÷0.30 wt.% Li, Cu) and a braze alloy containing 70÷72 wt.% Ag, 0.6÷0.7 wt.% Li and Cu were subjected to the investigations. The wettability properties of the brazing silver alloys were examined in a spread test. The shear strength of joints were measured on the joints of stainless steel in the tensile test. The comparison of results showed a beneficial effect of lithium on the spreading properties and the wettability of braze alloys as well as the quality and shear strength of the brazed joints. The observed slag inclusions in the solid braze did not affect considerably the mechanical properties of the prepared joints because of the intensive deoxidation of the brazing surfaces of stainless steel elements.
The Influence of Die Approach and Bearing Part of Die on Mechanical-Technological Properties of High Carbon Steel Wires / Wpływ Części Roboczej I Kalibrującej Ciągadła Na Własności Mechaniczno-Technologiczne Drutów Ze Stali Wysokowęglowej
Authors: Adamczyk J. , Suliga M. , Pilarczyk J.W. , Burdek M.
Published: June 2015

In this work the influence of the die approach and bearing part of die on mechanical-technological properties of high carbon steel wires has been assessed. The drawing process of φ5.5 mm wires to the final wire of φ2.9 mm was conducted in 6 passes, by means of a multi-die drawing machine Koch type. The drawing speeds in the last passes were: 7 m/s. For wires drawn according to four variants the investigation of mechanical-technological properties has been carried out, in which yield strength, tensile strength, uniform and total elongation, reduction of area, the number of twists and the number of bends were determined. On the basis of numerical analyses wire drawing process, the influence of geometry of die on redundant strain and effective strain has been determined.

The investigations have shown the essential influence of geometry of die on mechanical-technological properties of high carbon steel wires. It has been shown that the increase of strength properties in wires drawn with high die angle is related to the occurrence in their bigger effective strain.
The Influence of the High Speed Multipass Drawing Process on the Fatigue Strength of High Carbon Steel Wires / Wpływ Wielostopniowego Procesu Ciągnienia Z Dużymi Prędkościami Na Wytrzymałość Zmęczeniową Drutów Ze Stali Wysokowęglowej
Authors: Suliga M.
Published: June 2015

In this work the influence of the drawing speed on fatigue strength of high carbon steel wires has been assessed. The drawing process of φ5.5 mm wires to the final wire of φ1.6 mm was conducted in 11 passes, in industrial conditions, by means of a modern Koch multi-die drawing machine. The drawing speeds in the last passes were: 5, 10, 15 and 20 m/s. For φ1.6 mm wires the investigation of fatigue strength has been carried out.

In order to explain the effect of drawing speed on fatigue strength of rope wires, the roughness of drawn wires have been also determined. In addition, the numerical analysis of the drawing process on the base of Drawing 2D in which distribution of redundant strain, has been shown.

The data of investigations prove the favourable effect of high drawing speed on fatigue strength of drawn wires. It was found that the better fatigue strength of wires drawn at the speed of 20 m/s compared to the wires drawn at the speeds of 5-15 m/s is associated with a better geometric structure of the surface of those wires. In addition to the high fatigue strength of the wires drawn with high speed is related to theirs higher redundant strain.

The obtained data investigation can be applied in wire industry while implementing the new technologies of high speed drawing process of high carbon steel wires.
Sharp Interface Numerical Modeling of Solidification Process of Pure Metal / Sposób Modelowania Numerycznego Procesu Krzepnięcia Z Ostrym Frontem
Authors: Skrzypczak T.
Published: June 2015

The paper is focused on the study of the solidification process of pure metals, in which the solidification front is smooth. It has the shape of a surface separating liquid from solid in three dimensional space or a curve in 2D. The location and topology of moving interface change over time and its velocity depends on the values of heat fluxes on the solid and liquid side of it.

Such a formulation belongs to a group called Stefan problems. A mathematical model of the Stefan problem is based on differential equations of heat conduction and interface motion. This system of equations is supplemented by appropriate initial and boundary conditions as well as the continuity conditions at the solidification interface. The solution involves the determination of temporary temperature field and interface position. Typically, it is impossible to obtain the exact solution of such problem.

This paper presents a mathematical model for the two-dimensional problem. The equation of heat conduction is supplemented with Dirichlet and Neumann boundary conditions. Interface motion is described by the level set equation which solution is sought in the form of temporary distribution of the signed distance function. Zero level of the distance field coincides with the position of the front. Values of the signed distance function obtained from the level set equation require systematic reinitialization.

Numerical model of the process based on the finite element method (FEM) is also presented. FEM equations are derived and discussed. The explicit time integration scheme is proposed. It helps to avoid solving the system of equations during each time step. The reinitialization procedure of the signed distance function is described in detail. Examples of numerical analysis of the solidification process of pure copper within the complex geometry are presented. Results obtained from the use of constant material properties are compared with those obtained from the use of temperature dependent properties.
A cloud-based multi-criteria decision support system for selecting urban housing projects
Authors: Benatia Imene , Ridda Laouar Mohamed , Bendjenna Hakim , Eom Sean B.
Published: May 2015

This paper proposes a Cloud based multiple criteria decision support system (DSS) for Selecting Urban Housing Sustainable Development Projects in order to help the decision makers to choose the best urban project with conflicting criteria. The DSS is deployed on a platform Cloud (CloudBees) and managed by the OpenStack infrastructure. The Cloud based multiple criteria DSS we designed and implemented has significant advantages. It reduces the deployment and processing time, ameliorates the communication and the cooperation between the decision makers, facilitates the accessibility, and decrease the cost. The DSS is built on the Cloud Computing architecture with three layers and includes the multiple criteria decision making (MCDM) method PROMETHEE II as well as the procedure of negotiation Hare in order to help the decision makers to select the best urban project.
Determinants of successful online transactions – effects of transaction assurance seal and reputation rating affecting trust and purchase intention of consumers
Authors: Hsu Li-Ling , Chen Shin-Jiang , Chiu Ming-Chien , Chen Jason C.H.
Published: May 2015

As the Internet continues to grow and flourish, more and more consumers like to buy things on the Internet. Online auction has become the biggest marketplace, because of the convenience and speed of online transactions. Ministry of Economic Affairs of Taiwan reported C2 C transaction rise by 20% annually, and its market is expected to grow continuously, meaning C2 C marketplace is receiving much increased attention. Nonetheless, there are many risks that come with online shopping. The lack of ability to inspect merchandise before purchase will put consumers a trick of fraud (identify theft). Therefore, effectively increasing consumers’ trust in online sellers will make consumers more willing to buy goods from them. This study reported some characters that might influence consumers’ trust in online sellers, and investigated the influence of trust on purchase intention. The focus of this study is to examine the consumers’ perceived effect of sellers’ transaction assurance seal, reputation and ability to protect trade information. With Yahoo! Auction as the research subject, 260 questionnaire surveys were conducted online, and 226 were considered effective. The research hypotheses were developed by using structural equation modeling (SEM), and the results supported the model.
Politeia: a high-technology human system
Authors: Georgantzas Nicholas C.
Published: May 2015

Politeia’s emergence and evolution into a high-technology human system might be our civilization’s highest technological achievement. Sporadic incidents in Homer’s works mark its initial emergence, while this self-managing human system’s cultural, economic and socio-political aspects tread to the Fall of 322 BCE. Looking at both its magnificent performance, when its self-governance was fully functional, and its brutal murder by the despotic, pseudo-aristocratic or swanky regime, allows comparing politeia’s collegial, spherical decision-making structure to the ubiquitous but highly problematic, in our neo-postmodern temporality, pyramidal hierarchy of central authority and power. Doing so unveils a business proposition toward collegial, dynamic interventions, which entail focusing on civic, ethical and moral ideals, as the means to creating in business and industry the conditions necessary for the emergence of politeia’s collegially spherical decision-making structure, an innovative act of high-technology self management.
Exploring antecedents of online group-buying: Social commerce perspective
Authors: Lin Cathy S. , Wu Sheng
Published: May 2015

Online group-buying has become a widespread shopping way in recent years. To complete online group-buying, certain factors influence the activity of group-buying for the initiator and the group buyer. This paper examines three exogenous factors of trust in the initiator, perceived benefits, and social interaction from social commerce perspective for understanding their influence on the behavior of online group-buying. Based on 202 valid responses collected from an online survey questionnaire, partial least squares technology was employed to examine the research model. While online group-buying has been recognized as a kind of social commerce integration, the three antecedents are considered from this kind perspective. The results also demonstrate that the three antecedents play important role in influencing group buyers’ decision making. Online group-buying intention is influenced mostly by attitude, perceived behavioral control, and peer norm, whereas online group-buying behavior is impacted by perceived behavior control and online group-buying intention.
History of the national licensing examination for the health professions under the Japanese Government-General of Korea (1910-1945)
Authors: Park In-Soon
Published: May 2015

During the reign of Japanese Government-General of Korea (Joseon) from 1910 to 1945, the main health professionals who were educated about modern medicine were categorized into physicians, dentists, pharmacists, midwives, and nurses. They were clearly distinguished from traditional health professionals. The regulations on new health professionals were enacted, and the licensing system was enforced in earnest. There were two kinds of licensing systems: the license without examination through an educational institution and the license with the national examination. The Japanese Government-General of Korea (Joseon) combined education with a national examination system to produce a large number of health professionals rapidly; however, it was insufficient to fulfill the increasing demand for health services. Therefore, the government eased the examination several times and focused on quantitative expansion of the health professions. The proportion of professionals licensed through national examination had increased. This system had produced the maximum number of available professionals at low cost. Furthermore, this system was significant in three respects: first, the establishment of the framework of the national licensing examination still used today for health professionals; second, the protection of people from the poor practices of unqualified practitioners; and third, the standardization of the quality of health.
An Improved Asymmetric Cascaded Multilevel D–STATCOM with Enhanced Hybrid Modulation
Authors: Nunes Weder , Encarnação Lucas , Aredes Mauricio
Published: June 2015

Problems related to power quality, which in the last years were responsible only for small losses in low-voltage distribution systems, are now causing damage to power apparatuses and financial losses also in medium-voltage systems. The necessity of a better quality of power supply encourages the development of new specific custom power devices directly connected in medium-voltage distribution systems. It is well know that the multilevel converters are capable of being installed directly in the medium voltage, and presents several advantages when compared with conventional two-level converters. Some topologies, like the asymmetric cascaded multilevel converter, presents difficulties in regulating the voltages of all isolated dc-link capacitors. In this context, this article presents an asymmetric nineteen-level D–STATCOM (Distribution Static Synchronous Compensator) with a reactive power and dc-link regulation control loops for generic cascaded multilevel converters in order to improve the power quality in medium-voltage distribution systems. The performance of the proposed control method for a multilevel D–STATCOM is presented and evaluated in a downscaled prototype.
“Mesmeric Revelation”: Art as Hypnosis
Authors: Gillespie Zane
Published: June 2015

This article explores the relationship between percipient and the narrative purpose in Poe’s “Mesmeric Revelation”, arguing ultimately that the various questions raised by this relationship have a great deal in common with altered-state theories of hypnosis. It challenges predictable interpretations of this short story in an effort to open up a new avenue for exploring not only the art of fiction, but, by logical extension, all other branches of creative activity as well. Primary emphasis is given to the nature of the percipient's reduced peripheral awareness as (s)he appreciates a work of art, in this case, “Mesmeric Revelation”, and how, according to Poe’s “The Philosophy of Composition”, the cultivation of this focused attention lies at the heart of the most effective artistic products.
Production of Galactooligosaccharides Using β-Galactosidase Immobilized on Chitosan-Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles with Tris(hydroxymethyl)phosphine as an Optional Coupling Agent
Authors: Chen Su-Ching , Duan Kow-Jen
Published: June 2015

β-Galactosidase was immobilized on chitosan-coated magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles and was used to produce galactooligosaccharides (GOS) from lactose. Immobilized enzyme was prepared with or without the coupling agent, tris(hydroxymethyl)phosphine (THP). The two immobilized systems and the free enzyme achieved their maximum activity at pH 6.0 with an optimal temperature of 50 °C. The immobilized enzymes showed higher activities at a wider range of temperatures and pH. Furthermore, the immobilized enzyme coupled with THP showed higher thermal stability than that without THP. However, activity retention of batchwise reactions was similar for both immobilized systems. All the three enzyme systems produced GOS compound with similar concentration profiles, with a maximum GOS yield of 50.5% from 36% (w·v−1) lactose on a dry weight basis. The chitosan-coated magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles can be regenerated using a desorption/re-adsorption process described in this study.
Evaluation of Two Total Hip Bearing Materials for Resistance to Wear Using a Hip Simulator
Authors: St. John Kenneth
Published: June 2015

Electron beam crosslinked ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) 32 mm cups with cobalt alloy femoral heads were compared with gamma-irradiation sterilized 26 mm cups and zirconia ceramic heads in a hip wear simulator. The testing was performed for a total of ten million cycles with frequent stops for cleaning and measurement of mass losses due to wear. The results showed that the ceramic on UHMWPE bearing design exhibited higher early wear than the metal on highly crosslinked samples. Once a steady state wear rate was reached, the wear rates of the two types of hip bearing systems were similar with the ceramic on UHMPWE samples continuing to show a slightly higher rate of wear than the highly crosslinked samples. The wear rates of each of the tested systems appear to be consistent with the expectations for low rates of wear in improved hip replacement systems.
Fucoidan Suppresses Hypoxia-Induced Lymphangiogenesis and Lymphatic Metastasis in Mouse Hepatocarcinoma
Authors: Teng Hongming , Yang Yazong , Wei Hengyun , Liu Zundong , Liu Zhichao , Ma Yanhong , Gao Zixiang , Hou Lin , Zou Xiangyang
Published: June 2015

Metastasis, the greatest clinical challenge associated with cancer, is closely connected to multiple biological processes, including invasion and adhesion. The hypoxic environment in tumors is an important factor that causes tumor metastasis by activating HIF-1α. Fucoidan, extracted from brown algae, is a sulfated polysaccharide and, as a novel marine biological material, has been used to treat various disorders in China, Korea, Japan and other countries. In the present study, we demonstrated that fucoidan derived from Undaria pinnatifida sporophylls significantly inhibits the hypoxia-induced expression, nuclear translocation and activity of HIF-1α, the synthesis and secretion of VEGF-C and HGF, cell invasion and lymphatic metastasis in a mouse hepatocarcinoma Hca-F cell line. Fucoidan also suppressed lymphangiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. In addition, accompanied by a reduction in the HIF-1α nuclear translocation and activity, fucoidan significantly reduced the levels of p-PI3K, p-Akt, p-mTOR, p-ERK, NF-κB, MMP-2 and MMP-9, but increased TIMP-1 levels. These results indicate strongly that the anti-metastasis and anti-lymphangiogenesis activities of fucoidan are mediated by suppressing HIF-1α/VEGF-C, which attenuates the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways.
Nanotoxicology of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Seabra Amedea , Durán Nelson
Published: June 2015

This review discusses recent advances in the synthesis, characterization and toxicity of metal oxide nanoparticles obtained mainly through biogenic (green) processes. The in vitro and in vivo toxicities of these oxides are discussed including a consideration of the factors important for safe use of these nanomaterials. The toxicities of different metal oxide nanoparticles are compared. The importance of biogenic synthesized metal oxide nanoparticles has been increasing in recent years; however, more studies aimed at better characterizing the potent toxicity of these nanoparticles are still necessary for nanosafely considerations and environmental perspectives. In this context, this review aims to inspire new research in the design of green approaches to obtain metal oxide nanoparticles for biomedical and technological applications and to highlight the critical need to fully investigate the nanotoxicity of these particles.
Mechanical Behavior of Ultrafine Gradient Grain Structures Produced via Ambient and Cryogenic Surface Mechanical Attrition Treatment in Iron
Authors: Murdoch Heather , Darling Kristopher , Roberts Anthony , Kecskes Laszlo
Published: June 2015

Ambient and cryogenic surface mechanical attrition treatments (SMAT) are applied to bcc iron plate. Both processes result in significant surface grain refinement down to the ultrafine-grained regime; the cryogenic treatment results in a 45% greater grain size reduction. However, the refined region is shallower in the cryogenic SMAT process. The tensile ductility of the grain size gradient remains low (<10%), in line with the expected behavior of the refined surface grains. Good tensile ductility in a grain size gradient requires the continuation of the gradient into an undeformed region.
Effect of Methoxy Substituents on the Activation Barriers of the Glutathione Peroxidase-Like Mechanism of an Aromatic Cyclic Seleninate
Authors: Bayse Craig , Shoaf Ashley
Published: June 2015

Density functional theory (DFT) models including explicit water molecules have been used to model the redox scavenging mechanism of aromatic cyclic seleninates. Experimental studies have shown that methoxy substitutions affect the rate of scavenging of reactive oxygen species differently depending upon the position. Activities are enhanced in the para position, unaffected in the meta, and decreased in the ortho. DFT calculations show that the activation barrier for the oxidation of the selenenyl sulfide, a proposed key intermediate, is higher for the ortho methoxy derivative than for other positions, consistent with the low experimental conversion rate.
Conservation Laws and Exact Solutions of a Generalized Zakharov–Kuznetsov Equation
Authors: Mothibi Dimpho , Khalique Chaudry
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we study a generalized Zakharov–Kuznetsov equation in three variables, which has applications in the nonlinear development of ion-acoustic waves in a magnetized plasma. Conservation laws for this equation are constructed for the first time by using the new conservation theorem of Ibragimov. Furthermore, new exact solutions are obtained by employing the Lie symmetry method along with the simplest equation method.