bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Study on Mechanical Properties of Friction Stir Welded Dissimilar Joints of Aluminium Alloys AA8011-AA6082
Authors: Giridharan K. , Sevvel P. , Senthilnathan K. , Muthukumaran S. , Padmanabhan S.
Published: September 2019

In this research article, the mechanical properties and microstructure analysis ofFriction Stir Welded (FSW) of dissimilar aluminium alloys AA8011-AA6082 were evaluated. The FSW tool with taper cylindrical shape of H13 steel was selected to fabricate the weld joints between the dissimilar alloys. In this regard, three different rotational speed tools, three welding speeds and an unvarying axial load of 7 kN are used in this investigation. The tool rotational speeds are 800 rpm, 1000 rpm and 1200 rpm. The tool travelling speeds are 25mm/min, 30 mm/min and 35 mm/min. These constraints are used to generate frictional heat and interface into the soft range where the joining process can take place between the two materials. The mechanical tests were carried out on the weld joints. Microstructure analysis, tensile and hardness tests were considered by changing the tool rotating speed, welding speed and maintaining a constant axial force during material joining process. The micro hardness of the FSW weld joints in the stir zone increased to increase the tool rotational speed as well as to maintain a low range of welding speed during material joining process. The micro hardness of the stir zone in the FSW weld joints is increased as to reduce the welding speed. It was found that the highest value of the tensile strength in the joints is made-up of using the taper-shaped tool at 800 rpm, welding speed of 35mm/min and unvarying downward force of 7kN. These identified parameters give sufficient mechanical properties and fewer defects in weld joints such as tensile strength of 68 N and micro hardness of 42 Hv. The tensile and hardness tests values are examined by the part of mechanical characterization and the values are correlated to recognize the superiority of the weld joint.
Numerical Analysis on Cone Length and its Effect on Performance of an Automotive Catalytic Converter
Authors: Hariram V. , Seralathan S. , Arunraja P. , Salih Arshad A. , Jaganathan R.
Published: September 2019

Internal combustion engines are one of the major contributors of air pollution. Exhaust gas from these engines contains HC, CO, NOx, PM and smoke which are the harmful pollutants to humans as well as to the environment. The stringent norms enforced by governments has necessitated in improving the after-treatment processes of these exhaust gas. A three-way catalytic converter is one of the most effective devices in treating the HC, CO and NOx pollutants into non-toxic gases. In this paper, numerical investigation is carried out by using commercial CFD code, ANSYS Fluent to analyse the effect of cone length on the conversion efficiency of the Catalytic Converter (CC). Pressure drop, back pressure and temperature are the parameters which are monitored in this study. The cone length of the CC is varied from 70mm to 90mm in steps of 10mm. All the CCs are analysed for identical test conditions. It is observed that temperature and pressure showed an appreciable decrease with increase in cone length to 90mm. On the other hand, velocity increases with increase in cone length to 90mm. A lower pressure drop and temperature is observed for the CC with cone length of 90mm. As conversion efficiency of the CC is dependent on the lower pressure drop, lesser back pressure and lower temperature, the CC with cone length of 90mm is found to be the apt choice.
Experimental Analysis of Performance and Pollutants of CI Engine using Jatropha Biodiesel with Exhaust Gas Recirculation
Authors: Karikalan L. , Venugopal S. , Ramasubramanian S. , Jacob S.
Published: September 2019

Gradual depletion of the petroleum reserve and growing danger to the atmosphere from exhaust emission has created international attention in emerging substitute of non-gasoline fuels. Bio fuel is the better solution for CI engines to reduce fossil fuel consumption and to reduce the emission from exhaust gas. Biodiesel with exhaust gas recirculation has been chosen for this study. The outcome shows that the NOX emission is reduced as compared to the diesel fuel apart from the HC and CO emissions.
Challenges in Turbomatching - An Ample Review
Authors: Chandrasekaran M. , Roy Badal Dev , Saravanan R.
Published: September 2019

One of the major contributions of emission of green-house gases like CO2 is by transport. The energy demand increases steeply and due to its scarcity, the price hike of fuel also increases day by day. The best way of reducing the CO2 emission and economizing the fuel consumption is appropriate turbomatching. The turbomatching is applicable for all internal combustion engines. The matched turbocharger in the engine helps to complete combustion, helps in scavenging at each cycle, fuel economy, reduction of CO2 emission, increases the efficiency etc. but the perfect match of the turbocharger to the desired engine is tedious job and demands sophisticated technology, more skill and experiences. The objective of this review is to briefly discuss the purpose, pros and cons of each method and the challenges involved to identify the best turbocharging match.
Mechanical Behaviour of Silicon Carbide-Fly Ash Hybrid Aluminium Alloy Composites Subjected to Age Hardening
Authors: Muthukumar S.
Published: September 2019

Identification of age hardening behaviour for silicon carbide (SiC) and fly ash reinforced metal matrix composites (MMC) is required for aluminium based automobile components. The project deals with the fabrication of Aluminium Alloy 6061 metal matrix composite and characterize their mechanical properties such as hardness and tensile strength. In the present study a modest attempt has been made to test aluminium based silicon carbide and fly ash particulate MMC Age hardening behaviour of this MMC that was developed from blending, through powder metallurgy process is analysed. T6 heat treatment on AA6061/7.5% wt.of fly ash/15% wt. of silicon carbide made 20% increase in the hardness and by 18% increase in the ultimate tensile strength while 4% of ductility reduced.
Mechanical Characterization of Roselle and Sisal Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composites
Authors: Vinod Kumar T. , Chandrasekaran M. , Vivek P. , Arunkumar S. , Padmanabhan S.
Published: September 2019

This paper details the mechanical characterization of natural fibre reinforced polymer composites. This includes the laboratory works such as tensile, flexural and impact tests. The samples of randomly oriented Roselle and Sisal fibre reinforced polyester composites were prepared for the laboratory tests. Theoretical modelling of the composites and calculation of the properties are also presented. The effect of alkali treatment of the fibre on the characteristics of the composite is also included. The results obtained are compared on various aspects to obtain a better performing composite.
Investigation of Tensile Properties of Carbon/Epoxy Composite Joints with and without Carbon Nano-Tubes
Authors: Amit Kumar R. , Asokan R. , Jhanji Kanu Priya , Das Debajit , Vishnu Sai N.
Published: September 2019

The intent of this project is to determine the tensile strength of CFRP lap joint with and without introduction of multiwall carbon nano tubes (MWCNT). Specimens with lap joint were prepared by Adhesive bonding. The dimensions of the specimens were kept according to the ASTM standard D-5868. An experimental work along with FEA analysis was undertaken to identify the ultimate tensile strength and modes of failure in two different categories of adhesively bonded specimen, firstly with inclusion of different percentages of MWCNT and secondly without inclusion of MWCNT. MWCNT of 0.1% and 0.3% by weight was added to the adhesive used in creating the joint. The adhesively bonded specimens with inclusion of MWCNT showed better load bearing capacity, the highest being 86% for 0.3% MWCNT. An increment of 27% was observed in the tensile strength with the increase in percentage of MWCNT. Further the FEA analysis was carried out which proved the experimental results are well within the error range of 1%.
Computational Analysis of Flow over Bluff Bodies using Aero Spikes: Technical Note
Authors: Syedhaleem M. , Adaikalaraj A. , Sundararaj M.
Published: September 2019

This paper presents the computational analysis of the effect of aero spikes on bluff bodies. In the present study, a blunt nose model was designed with and without spike. Two different shaped spikes were chosen for our study. Efforts were taken to obtain the flow pattern and the pressure distribution field over the nose of the blunt body. Flow pattern were observed and recorded for different shaped spike attached in-front of the body. Comparative study was also done to observe which shape of the aero spike provides better zone of pressure field. It is observed that the radius of curvature of the streamline gets reduced by aero spike. Also, there occurs a deflection in the streamline which in turn resulted in creating a narrow zone of positive pressure region. The zone of influence gets reduced by hemispherical shaped spike. The models were designed using Catia V5 software and the analyses were carried out using Ansys software.
Flow Characteristics of Parabolic Nozzle by Changing the Shape of Nozzle Exit
Authors: Sundararaj M. , Syedhaleem M. , Adaikalaraj A.
Published: September 2019

This paper deals with parabolic nozzles which can be used in aerospace applications. Parabolic nozzles are mechanical devices which produces mechanical energy by converting the thermal and pressure energy produced as a result of combustion. This project aims at providing the flow characteristics of parabolic nozzle by changing the shape of the exit area. The analyses were further extended by changing the pressure values. The analysis processes were carried out using Computational Fluid Dynamics software ANSYS CFX.
Investigation on Friction Stir Welding Parameters of Aluminium Metal Matrix Composites
Authors: Sucharitha M. , Ravisankar B.
Published: September 2019

Friction stir welding could be a solid-state welding has a wide range of applications in industries like aerospace and automobile industries. In this work, the friction stir weld ability of aluminium metal matrix composite(AMMC) using H13 tool and sensitivity of parameters like tool rotation speed, traverse speed and axial force are assessed on final durability, hardness and microstructure. It was observed that the tensile strength and hardness are increased by increasing the tool rotation speed. The microstructure showed fine Al-Mg-Si eutectic particles in a matrix of Al solid solution.
VER-SUS: percepções dos viventes voltadas ao contexto universitário e social
Authors: Figueredo Aline Santana , Lopes da Costa Júnior Aldo , De Almeida Santos Gustavo , Ramos da Silva Francisco Eduardo , Pachelle Lima Abreu Vitor , De Araújo Ramos Wherveson
Published: September 2019

O objetivo do artigo é analisar a percepção dos participantes da primeira edição do VER-SUS Marabá-PA, no que tange ao contexto universitário e social do projeto. Trata-se de um estudo do tipo descritivo e exploratório, com abordagem qualitativa dos dados. A coleta de dados foi realizada nos meses de janeiro e fevereiro pela ferramenta Google Docs. A análise de dados foi feita através do método de análise qualitativa de Minayo. A partir da análise de dados, emergiram as seguintes categorias: visão pré-vivência; o que penso do SUS de Marabá; impressão sobre as comunidades específicas; VER-SUS como articulador para as ações sociais; e visão pós-vivência. A participação no projeto VER-SUS proporciona quebra de paradigmas e do pensar acadêmico voltado unicamente ao curso, promovendo um olhar para além dos muros da universidade, instigando o questionamento em relação às interações sociais e à maneira de como se faz saúde pautada no Sistema Único de Saúde.
A prosódia de perguntas e asserções: um estudo situado de espanhol no Brasil
Authors: Cerqueira Sabrina Lima de Souza , Moraes João Antonio , Rilliard Albert
Published: September 2019

Neste trabalho, descreve-se a entoação (F0 e duração) de perguntas totais e parciais e de suas asserções correspondentes em enunciados lidos em espanhol por quatro informantes: duas brasileiras, falantes de espanhol como L2, e duas espanholas, falantes de espanhol como L1. Para a descrição e análise dos dados, partimos de trabalhos realizados para o português brasileiro (MORAES, 1998; CUNHA, 2000; MORAES, 2006, 2008; BARBOSA, 2012; FROTA, 2013) e para o espanhol  (NAVARRO TOMÁS, 1944; SOSA, 1999; CANTERO, 2002; HIDALGO NAVARRO, 2006; ESTEBAS VILAPLANA, PRIETO, 2009; FERREIRA DE SÁ, 2013; SILVA, 2016). Os resultados mostram que o padrão mais frequente para enunciados do tipo pergunta total apresenta movimento ascendente na região prenuclear e na região nuclear. Nas perguntas parciais o movimento melódico predominante é descendente. As asserções se caracterizam por contorno prenuclear ascendente com pico geralmente na sílaba tônica ou postônica prenuclear, queda da F0 ao longo do enunciado e acento nuclear num nível médio ou baixo seguido de F0final baixa. No que diz respeito ao parâmetro duração, em enunciados do tipo pergunta total e pergunta parcial, as 4 informantes apresentam padrão semelhante: encurtam as sílabas da região prenuclear e a pretônica nuclear e alongam a tônica e a postônica nucleares. Nos enunciados assertivos, observa-se que as informantes brasileiras encurtam as pretônicas e postônicas prenucleares e alongam as tônicas. As informantes espanholas, por sua vez, alongam pretônicas e tônicas prenucleares e encurtam as postônicas. Na região nuclear as 4 informantes apresentam padrão similar, com alongamento das tônicas e postônicas.
Technical Note: Intermittent reduction of the stratospheric ozone
over Northern Europe caused by a storm in Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Sofiev Mikhail , Kouznetsov Rostislav , Hänninen Risto , Sofieva Viktoria F.
Published: September 2019

Abstract. A three-day episode of anomalously low ozone concentrations in the stratosphere over Northern Europe occurred on 3–5 November 2018. A reduction of the total ozone column down to ~ 200–210 Dobson Units was predicted by the global forecasts of System for Integrated modeLling of Atmospheric coMposition (SILAM) driven by the weather forecast of Integrated Forecasting System (IFS) of European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (ECMWF). The reduction down to 210–215 DU was subsequently observed by the satellite instruments, such as Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) and Ozone Mapping Profile Suite (OMPS). The episode was caused by intrusion of the tropospheric air, which was initially uplifted by a storm in Northern Atlantic, south-east of Greenland. Subsequent transport towards the east and further uplift over Scandinavian ridge of this humid and low-ozone air brought it to ~ 25 km altitude causing ~ 30 % reduction of the ozone layer thickness over Northern Europe. The low-ozone air was further transported eastwards and diluted over Siberia, so that the ozone concentrations restored a few days later. High accuracy of the episode prediction 5 days in advance by the IFS-SILAM modelling tandem illustrates the model capabilities of short-term forecasting of the stratospheric composition, including such rare events.
Inducing the Attachment of Cable Bacteria on Oxidizing
Electrodes
Authors: Li Cheng , Reimers Clare E. , Alleau Yvan
Published: September 2019

Abstract. The scope of the present study is to introduce electrochemical reactors as a tool for investigating the growth of novel filamentous cable bacteria and their unique extracellular electron transfer ability. New evidence that cable bacteria are widely distributed in sediments throughout an estuarine system connected to the NE Pacific Ocean is also presented. Cable bacteria found within Yaquina Bay, Oregon, USA, appear to cluster with the genus, Candidatus Electrothrix. Results of a 135-day bioelectrochemical reactor experiment confirm a previous observation that cable bacteria can grow on oxidatively poised electrodes suspended in anaerobic seawater above reducing sediments. However, several diverse morphologies of Desulfobulbaceae filaments, cells, and colonies were observed on the carbon fibers of the suspended electrodes including encrusted chains of cells. These observations provide new information to suggest what conditions will induce cable bacteria to perform electron donation to an electrode surface, further informing future experiments to culture cable bacteria apart from a sediment matrix.
1-km monthly temperature and precipitation dataset for China from
1901–2017
Authors: Peng Shouzhang , Ding Yongxia , Li Zhi
Published: September 2019

Abstract. High-spatial-resolution and long-term climate data are highly desirable for understanding climate-related natural processes. China covers a large area with a low density of weather stations in some regions, especially in mountainous regions. This study describes a 0.5' (~ 1 km) dataset of monthly air temperatures at 2 m (minimum, maximum, and mean TMPs) and precipitation (PRE) for China from 1901–2017. The dataset was spatially downscaled from 30' climatic research unit (CRU) time series dataset with the climatology dataset of WorldClim by using Delta spatial downscaling and evaluated using observations during 1951–2016 from 496 weather stations across China. Moreover, the bicubic, bilinear, and nearest-neighbor interpolation methods were compared in the downscaling processes. Among the three interpolation methods, bilinear interpolation exhibited the best performance to generate the downscaled dataset. Compared with the evaluations of the original CRU dataset, the mean absolute error of the new dataset (i.e., 0.5' downscaled dataset with the bilinear interpolation) relatively decreased by 35.4 %–48.7 % for TMPs and 25.7 % for PRE, the root-mean-square error relatively decreased by 32.4 %–44.9 % for TMPs and 25.8 % for PRE, the Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency coefficients relatively increased by 9.6 %–13.8 % for TMPs and 31.6 % for PRE, and the correlation coefficients relatively increased by 0.2 %–0.4 % for TMPs and 5.0 % for PRE. Further, the new dataset could provide detailed climatology data and annual trend of each climatic variable across China, and the results could be well evaluated using observations at the station. Although the evaluation of new dataset was not carried out before 1950 owing to a lack of data availability, the downscaling procedure used data from CRU and WordClim and did not incorporate observations. Thus the quality of the new dataset before 1950 mainly depended on that of the CRU and WordClim datasets. The evaluations showed that the overall quality of the CRU and WordClim datasets was satisfactory, and the downscaling procedure further improved the quality and spatial resolution of the CRU dataset. The new dataset will be useful in investigations related to climate change across China. The dataset presented in this article has been published in Network Common Data Form (NetCDF) at http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.3114194 for precipitation (Peng, 2019a) and http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.3185722 for air temperatures at 2 m (Peng, 2019b). The dataset includes 156 NetCDF files compressed with zip format and one user guidance text file.
Evaluating the potential of post-processing kinematic (PPK) georeferencing for UAV-based structure- from-motion (SfM) photogrammetry and surface change detection
Authors: Zhang He , Aldana-Jague Emilien , Clapuyt François , Wilken Florian , Vanacker Veerle , Van Oost Kristof
Published: September 2019

Abstract. Images captured by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and
processed by structure-from-motion (SfM) photogrammetry are increasingly
used in geomorphology to obtain high-resolution topography data.
Conventional georeferencing using ground control points (GCPs) provides
reliable positioning, but the geometrical accuracy critically depends on the
number and spatial layout of the GCPs. This limits the time and
cost effectiveness. Direct georeferencing of the UAV images with
differential GNSS, such as PPK (post-processing kinematic), may overcome
these limitations by providing accurate and directly georeferenced surveys.
To investigate the positional accuracy, repeatability and reproducibility of
digital surface models (DSMs) generated by a UAV–PPK–SfM workflow, we
carried out multiple flight missions with two different camera–UAV systems:
a small-form low-cost micro-UAV equipped with a high field of view (FOV) action camera and a
professional UAV equipped with a digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera. Our analysis showed that the
PPK solution provides the same accuracy (MAE: ca. 0.02 m, RMSE: ca. 0.03 m)
as the GCP method for both UAV systems. Our study demonstrated that a
UAV–PPK–SfM workflow can provide consistent, repeatable 4-D data with an
accuracy of a few centimeters. However, a few flights showed vertical bias
and this could be corrected using one single GCP. We further evaluated
different methods to estimate DSM uncertainty and show that this has a large
impact on centimeter-level topographical change detection. The DSM reconstruction
and surface change detection based on a DSLR and action camera were
reproducible: the main difference lies in the level of detail of the surface
representations. The PPK–SfM workflow in the context of 4-D Earth surface
monitoring should be considered an efficient tool to monitor geomorphic
processes accurately and quickly at a very high spatial and temporal
resolution.
In-depth analysis of a discrete p model
Authors: Saint-Mont Uwe
Published: September 2019

Abstract. Towards the end of the last century, B. Mandelbrot saw the importance, revealed the beauty, and robustly promoted (multi)fractals. Multiplicative cascades are closely related and provide simple models for the study of turbulence and chaos. For pedagogical reasons, but also due to technical difficulties, continuous stochastic models have been favoured over discrete cascades. Particularly important are the α, the β and the p model (Lovejoy and Scherzter 2013, Chapter 3; de Wijs (1951, 1953). It is the aim of this contribution to introduce original concepts that shed new light on the latter paradigmatic cascade and allow key features to be derived in a rather elementary fashion. To this end, we introduce and study a discrete version of the p model which is based on a new kind of sampling. Technical machinery can be kept simple, therefore formulas are explicit, proofs extend standard arguments, and potential extensions are numerous. Thus the proposed line of investigation may enrich and simplify received multifractal analyses.
Note on contra delta hat g-continuous functions - doi: 10.5269/bspm.v30i2.14923
Authors: Devi B. Meera , Thivagar M. Lellis
Published: September 2019

In this paper we introduce and investigate some classes of generalized functions called contra-delta hat g-continuous functions. We obtain several characterizations and some of their properties. Also we investigate its relationship with other typesof functions. Finally we introduce two new spaces called delta\hat g-Hausdorf spaces and deltahat g-normal spaces and obtain some new results.
The Roles of Positive and Negative Evidence in the Development of the English Present Progressive Structure
Authors: Al-Maghrabi Sarah , Sabir Mona
Published: September 2019

The type of linguistic evidence necessary for ultimate L2 attainment has been a major topic of debate. This research investigates the role of negative vs. positive evidence in the acquisition of the affirmative and negative present progressive structures. Following a quasi-experimental design, 49 Saudi EFL learners were divided into three groups: Control Group (n=13), Negative Evidence group (n=15), and Positive Evidence group (n=21). It was hypothesized that negative evidence would be more effective for the acquisition of the present progressive structure than positive evidence, to the point that a significant difference would result between the performance of the two experimental groups. The participants took a pre-test, after which they were given classroom intervention sessions on the use of the English present progressive structure. They then took a post-test. The results show significant differences in the performance of the experimental groups compared to the control group. However, there was no statistical difference between the two experimental groups. Thus, the research supports the importance of the role of negative evidence in teaching L2 when paired with positive evidence. We outline pedagogical implications for further research to determine the extent to which the two types of evidence can be blended in English language classrooms.
Patients’ experiences of being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and their support and guidance needs in the first year of illness
Authors: Skovgård Petersen Lena , Dichmann Sorknæs Anne
Published: September 2019

Aims: To describe patients’ experiences of being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) and their needs for support and guidance in the first year with the disease. Methods: A qualitative, semistructured interview study with five patients with MS was conducted. Data were transcribed and analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Results: Three themes emerged: Frightening to get the diagnosis, needs from family and network, and the importance of continuity in contacts with nurses. The participants struggled with thoughts about serious disabilities and stigmatization, although for some the disease moved more into the background after a period. The patients expressed a need for support and guidance from both families and nurses. They primarily used their families for support, and this was influenced by the family’s emotional involvement. Family members typically did not have the necessary experience to give appropriate guidance. The patients were aware of the impact the disease had on their families, and this sometimes stopped them from seeking support from them. The nurse should develop the contact with the individual patient to become familiar with the patient’s illness narrative and previous coping strategies so to better provide holistic care. Conclusion: Being diagnosed with MS gives rise to frightening thoughts about the future and the fear of stigmatization. Patients need support and guidance from both their families and the nurses at the MS clinic. Nurses should consider the family’s role and how to involve the resources available from family members. It is important that the nurses develop a close relationship with the patient. The possibility of contact nurses may be a useful solution for providing targeted support and guidance to patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
Cognitive Modeling of Sustainability of the Russian Financial Market
Authors: Badwan Nemer , Panfilova Elena
Published: September 2019

Object: The stability of the financial market is one of the most important components of the inflow of capital into the country and ensuring economic growth. Cognitive modeling of stability of the Russian financial market is carried out.Purposes: Drawing up a cognitive map of the Russian financial market, impulse modeling of changes in its segments in order to find the main factors of stability of the national financial market.Methodology: Cognitive research methods: cognitive analysis and cognitive modeling.Result of research: The stability of the financial market is formed due to the cumulative effect of all its segments. However, the Russian financial market is most sensitive to changes in the money market, foreign exchange market, corporate and government borrowing market. Despite the sanction’s restrictions, the domestic market remains dependent on international financial markets.Application: The results are applicable in the formation of financial and monetary policy of the country.Summary: Achieving stability in the financial market requires constant attention from the regulator for liquidity in the market, stability and predictability of the national currency. The priority direction of development of the state financial policy in the near future should be the establishment of relations with leading players in the world financial markets and international financial institutions.
The Effect of High Intensity Interval Training Versus Steady State Aerobic Training on Skin Microvascular Reactivity in Moderately Active Young Adults: A Pilot Study
Authors: Naicker Yoshlin , Sookan Takshita
Published: September 2019

A sedentary lifestyle is associated with endothelial dysfunction, leading to vascular pathology and impaired microvascular reactivity (MVR). Enhanced endothelial functioning has been seen in aerobically trained individuals. The purpose of this study was to determine if there was a differential training response of skin MVR in response to high intensity aerobic interval training (HIAIT) as compared to steady state aerobic training (SSAT). The study involved 16 moderately active male students (age: 20.93 ± 5.05 yrs). They were randomly assigned to one of three groups; HIAIT, SSAT, and control group (CG). Baseline testing was performed to determine the VO2max, lactate threshold, blood pressure, body composition and a post-occlusive reactive hyperemia response (PORH) test was used to assess microvascular reactivity on the right palmer forearm using a moorVMS-Laser Doppler Flowmetry (LDF) These parameters were reassessed after three weeks (mid-point) and six-weeks (post intervention) weeks. Statistical significance was set at p≤0.05. There were no significant interactions between the variables measured in the three groups over time. There was a positive linear relationship in the SSAT group for PORHmax/time to peak (Tp) at baseline (r = 0.998, p = 0.039), midpoint (r = 0.992, p = 0.083), and the post intervention (r = 0.987, p = 0.103). Training in the SSAT group had improved PORHpeak at midpoint and post intervention time points (r = 0.999, p = 0.22; r = 1, p = 0.006; r = 1, p = 0.011). Training in either the HIAIT or the SSAT group had no significant effect on skin MVR in moderately active young adults. SSAT did display a positive linear relationship with PORHmax/Tp, and PORHpeak, which are variables influencing skin MVR.
Short Course of Systemic Corticosteroids in Wheezy Children: Still an Open Question
Authors: Miseviciene Valdone , Liakaite Gintare , Kevalas Rimantas
Published: September 2019

Introduction: We performed a real-life clinical study to identify the main indications for the prescription of short-course treatment with systemic glucocorticosteroids (GCS) for steroid naive children with acute virus-induced wheezing as well as to analyze the influence of such treatment on patients’ serum cortisol level, other blood tests results and the length of stay in the hospital. Material and methods: The data of 44 patients who had acute wheezing, had no bacterial infection and were otherwise healthy were analyzed: 26 children received treatment with GCS and 18 children did not. Full blood count, biochemistry tests (Na, K, glucose) and blood cortisol levels of all patients were analyzed during treatment. Results: The main indications for the short-term administration of systemic GCS were increased work of breathing, recurrent wheezing, clinical signs of atopy and a family history of asthma. Systemic GCS increased a sodium concentration (p = 0.014), decreased a cortisol level (p = 0.038), leukocyte (p = 0.043), neutrophil (p = 0.045), and eosinophil (p < 0.001) count in blood serum. The major reduction in the eosinophil count was observed in allergic children (p = 0.023). Older age was a risk factor for cortisol suppression (p = 0.018). The average length of stay in the hospital was longer in the intervention group (p = 0.039). Conclusion: Even short-course treatment with systemic GCS decreases the serum cortisol level and has a significant effect on other blood tests results. Systemic GCS used for acute virus-induced wheezing treatment did not prove to reduce the average length of stay in the hospital. Objective criteria for initiation of such treatment are still lacking, which might consequently lead to the overuse of corticosteroids.
Study of structure and morphology
of surface layers formed on TRIP steel
by the femtosecond laser treatment
Authors: Duriagina Z.A. , Tepla T.L. , Kulyk V.V. , Kosarevych R.Ya. , Vira V.V. , Semeniuk O.A.
Published: September 2019

Purpose: The purpose of the work is to demonstrate the possibility of using a femtosecond
laser for forming surface layers with an adjustable microstructure on the surface of TRIP
steel 03X13AG19, and processing the obtained images using digital complexes.
Design/methodology/approach: A laser treatment of TRIP steel (03X13AG19) with
pulses of femtosecond duration was carried out in a melting mode. The source of the
radiation is a femtosecond titanium-sapphire Ti:Al2O3 complex consisting of a predefining
femtosecond generator “Mira Optima 900-F” and regenerative amplifier Legend F-1K-HE.
Peculiarities of the surface structure of irradiated samples were studied using a Solver
P47-PRO atomic force microscope. The structural-geometric parameters of the surface
of the investigated steel treated with the femtosecond laser were determined using the
software package Nova 1.0.26.1443 and the functions of the Image Analysis. Microstructural
analysis was performed using a raster electron microscope JSM 6700F and a METAM-1P
microscope. In this work, the digitization of images of microstructures obtained as a result of
surface irradiation by highly concentrated energy streams of femtosecond duration has been
carried out. The analysis of the surface structure of laser-structured materials was carried
out using a metallographic complex with the software ImProcQCV.
Findings: It has been revealed that the predetermined change of the laser treatment mode
changes the microrelief and the shape and size of the fragments of the surface structure
of the investigated steel. The use of digital image processing allowed to generalize the
morphological features of the surface structure, to assess in detail the character of the
microrelief, and to monitor under in-situ mode the structure and properties of the surface of
the material being studied.
Research limitations/implications: The obtained research results can be applied to
stainless steels of various structural classes.
Practical implications: Surface digitization significantly reduces the time for research,
improves the quality and accuracy of the data obtained, makes it possible to conduct
in-situ researches with the further implementation of the results using the Internet of Things
technologies.
Originality/value: A comprehensive approach is proposed for the estimation of parameters
of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) using a metallographic complex with the
software ImProcQCV.
Distribution of forces on supporting teeth
in the midpalatal expander during “Hyrax”
screw pre-load
Authors: Młynarek K. , Żmudzki J.
Published: September 2019

Purpose: The aim of the study was to determine forces which are transferred to supporting
teeth during the treatment with the midpalatal device with Hyrax screw and to evaluate
orthodontic and orthopaedic effects based on displacement analysis.
Design/methodology/approach: The finite element method (FEM) was used to
simulation the midpalatal expansion forces activated by the screw pre-loaded during a
turn of 180° which corresponds to daily recommended value. Distribution of expansion
forces of Hyrax device was calculated as reaction forces on elastic supports with stiffness
corresponding to the teeth working on periodontal ligament in alveolar bone.
Findings: On the basis of the displacement analysis was observed the movement of
supporting teeth by a value higher than 0.1 mm which corresponds to the recommended
daily value. The midpalatal suture splitting forces were determined on the first premolars with
a value of 32.8 N and on the first premolars of 44.2 N.
Research limitations/implications: The studies did not take into account the shape of
palate other craniofacial bones and their stiffness.
Practical implications: Adjusting the stiffness of the device to degree of ossification
midpalatal suture and teeth mobility. Searching for new solutions which eliminate the
negative phenomenon of tilting teeth during the expansion of maxilla and recommending a
surgically assisted techniques.
Originality/value: The simulation confirmed that treatment with Hyrax screw gives a
uniform expansion with values of forces corresponded to stiffness of premolar and molar
teeth. The studies have indicated a possibility of tendency to tilting the supporting teeth
what is a negative phenomenon.
Territorium und Mitgliedschaftsraum der EU. Ein genuin europäisches Spaltungsstrukturmuster?
Authors: Löcse Noel
Published: September 2019

Spätestens seit dem Lissabonner Vertrag scheint sich das europäische Projekt selbst zu blockieren. Euro- und Flüchtlingskrise paralysieren den Integrationsprozess; überzeugende Lösungsansätze bieten sich nicht an. Dies hängt auch mit der mangelhaften Analyse beider Krisenphänomene zusammen. Anstatt die Eurokrise rein ökonomisch zu beschreiben oder die Flüchtlingskrise eindimensional als Überlastung nationalstaatlicher Asylsysteme zu deuten, sollten beide als Symptome einer tieferliegenden Ursache kenntlich gemacht werden. Das historisch-soziologische Analysemodell Stein Rokkans vermag genau dies zu leisten, indem es die kontemporären Krisen der EU auf ihre geschichtlich gewachsenen und damit pfadanhängigen Struktureigenschaften zurückführt. Im Zentrum dieses Ansatzes steht die konstitutive und wechselwirksame Verknüpfung von Territorium und Mitgliedschaftsraum in politischen Systemen. Nur wenn beide jeweils aufeinander bezogen sind, können Probleme effektiv bearbeitet und das politische System dauerhaft stabilisiert werden. Die gegenwärtigen Krisen der EU können, so die These dieses Aufsatzes, als Oberflächensymptome der strukturellen Entkopplung von EU-Mitgliedschaftsraum und EU-Territorium verstanden werden.
Social dialogue and occupational health and safety in the Republic of Croatia
Authors: Kovač Cvetan , Krišto Ivana , Kovač Hrvoje , Šijaković Ana
Published: September 2019

This article provides an overview of the results of a survey on the quality of social dialogue in the implementation of occupational health and safety law in the Republic of Croatia. The survey was carried out within the EU project Occupational Health and Safety - an Opportunity and a Challenge in Social Dialogue together with the Independent Trade Union of Food and Beverage Manufacturers from Kutjevo as project leader. The effective realisation of occupational health and safety objectives requires properly-conducted social dialogue on all issues related to the health and safety of workers as well as an understanding of the role and obligations of employees’ elected safety reps, authorised OHS officers, OHS specialists and shop stewards. The results of the survey point to the conclusion that additional activities directed at education and awareness must be implemented in order to contribute to strengthening and improving the social dialogue. Consequently, a set of programme guidelines have been proposed in this direction, applying to trade union federations and confederations at all levels.
The process of dialogue between the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of Serbia: A review from a constitutional perspective
Authors: Muçaj Florent , Balaj Luz
Published: September 2019

This article aims to present a clear picture of the attempts towards the normalisation of relations in the western Balkans between the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of Serbia via the process of the dialogue, facilitated by the UN General Assembly and mediated by the EU, which began more than eight years ago. The dialogue has produced different results for both countries so far, including various consequences and implications which have a constitutional nature. Taking this into account, this article offers an analysis of the perspective and the constitutional dimensions of the Kosovo-Serbia dialogue, drawing on the legal and factual actions that have been undertaken by the parties in the process thus far. The article analyses this dialogue and draws conclusions regarding the ending of the process and, in practice, how the final normalisation of relations should look, including the drawing up of a final agreement of reconciliation between the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of Serbia. The constitutional consequences which can be the product of such an agreement are also examined.
Digitalisierung als Prozess. Ethische Herausforderungen inmitten allmählicher Verschiebungen zwischen Mensch, Technik und Gesellschaft
Authors: Grunwald Armin
Published: September 2019

Die Digitalisierung ist diejenige technikgetriebene Entwicklung mit dem zurzeit stärksten transformativen Potential für Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft. Ihre ethischen Fragen betreffen praktisch alle Handlungsfelder. Dieser Beitrag widmet sich Ursprüngen ethischer Herausforderungen, die sich aus allmählichen technikphilosophischen und gesellschaftlichen Verschiebungen im Rahmen der Digitalisierung als Prozess ergeben.
Verantwortung für digitale Innovation: ein realistisches Ziel?
Authors: Böhm Christoph
Published: September 2019

Datenskandale und intransparente Geschäftspraktiken von internationalen Unternehmen der Digitalwirtschaft führen zu einem Vertrauensverlust in der Gesellschaft. Die erklärtermaßen so smarten Technologien werden dabei zunehmend als Problem wahrgenommen. Weder die Institutionen noch die Unternehmen sind derzeit in der Lage, problematische Entwicklungen aufzuhalten. Die Profiteure der Digitalisierung und die Institutionen sind verantwortlich, Fähigkeiten zur digitale Selbstfürsorge zu etablieren.
The Risk of Chromosomal Abnormalities in Cases of Minor and Major Fetal Anomalies in the Second Trimester
Authors: Beke Artúr , Simonyi Aténé
Published: September 2019

Currently, noninvasive intrauterine screening for most chromosome abnormalities is available, but ultrasound examinations also play an important role during pregnancy, by drawing the attention to the suspect of a possible abnormality. Fetal ultrasound disorders can be classified into two major groups: (1) Major abnormalities are actually diagnosed malformations that are often associated with certain chromosome abnormalities but may be associated with other disorders (multiplex malformation) and may occur as isolated disorders (e.g., cardiac disorders, duodenal atresia, omphalocele, cystic hygroma (CH)). (2) Minor anomalies (“soft markers”) are not abnormal in themselves but are mild abnormalities that may occur in normal pregnancy but also increase the risk of certain chromosome aberrations. The minor anomalies in the second trimester include thickened nuchal fold (NF), mild ventriculomegaly, pyelectasis, hyperechogenic bowels, hyperechogenic papillary muscle, and shorter long bones. Plexus choroid cyst which is classified as a minor marker does not increase the risk of Down syndrome but increases the risk of trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome). We want to emphasize the importance of screening of minor and major ultrasound abnormalities in detecting chromosomal abnormalities in the second trimester.
Conceptual DFT as a Helpful Chemoinformatics Tool for the Study of the Clavanin Family of Antimicrobial Marine Peptides
Authors: Flores-Holguín Norma , Frau Juan , Glossman-Mitnik Daniel
Published: September 2019

A well-behaved model chemistry previously validated for the study of the chemical reactivity of peptides was considered for the calculation of the molecular properties and structures of the clavanin family of antimicrobial marine peptides. A methodology based on conceptual density functional theory (CDFT) was chosen for the determination of the reactivity descriptors. The molecular active sites were associated with the active regions of the molecules related to the nucleophilic and electrophilic Fukui functions. Finally, the drug-likenesses and the bioactivity scores for the clavanin peptides were predicted through a homology methodology relating them with the calculated reactivity descriptors, while other properties like the pKas were determined following a methodology developed by our group.
Nondestructive Evaluation of Inoculation Effects of AMF and Bradyrhizobium japonicum on Soybean under Drought Stress From Reflectance Spectroscopy
Authors: Kong Weiping , Bi Yinli , Huang Wenjiang , Tang Lingli , Li Chuanrong , Ma Lingling
Published: September 2019

Precise estimation of leaf chlorophyll content (LCC) and leaf water content (LWC) of soybean, using remote sensing technology, provides a new avenue for the nondestructive evaluation of inoculation effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and Bradyrhizobium japonicum (BJ) on soybean growth condition. In this study, a series of pot experiments were conducted in the greenhouse, soybean inoculated with Glomus intraradices (G.i, one of AMF species), G.i and BJ, and non-inoculation were planted under drought stress (DS) and normal irrigation (NI) conditions. Leaf spectra and LCC and LWC were measured on the 28th and 56th days after inoculation. Two new simple ratio (SR) indices, derived from the first derivative spectral reflectance at λ1 nm (Dλ1) and the raw spectral reflectance at λ2 nm (Rλ2), were developed to estimate LCC and LWC. The results indicate that under DS, plants inoculated with G.i had higher LCC and LWC than the non-inoculated plants, followed by the counterparts co-inoculated with G.i and BJ. Linear estimation models, established by the D650/Rred edge and D1680/R680, achieved great improved accuracy for quantifying LCC and LWC of soybean under inoculation and drought stress treatments, with determination of coefficient of 0.63 and 0.76, respectively.
Evaluation of farmers’ socio-economic conditions and their influence on agrobiodiversity in Gharaviz area
Authors: Asgari Ashkan , Khoshbakht Korous , Soufizadeh Saeid
Published: September 2019

This study evaluated the effects of farmers’ socio-economic conditions on crop biodiversity in three villages located within the non-hunting region of Gharaviz and four villages in the surrounding area in western Iran. Information used in the study was collected during farm visits and by way of questionnaires and interviews with farmers and agricultural experts in the region. The following parameters were used for evaluations; cultivated species, area under cultivation, farmer’s age, farmers’ level of education, and sources providing a farmer’s income. Results suggested that farmers’ average age in rural areas was 50 years and in terms of gender, men accounted for more than 87% of heads of households. Farmers’ level of education in the region showed that 44% of them were illiterate and the condition was undesirable. An average size of a household in all rural areas was 5.4 persons, indicating moderately sized families. The main source of income for farmers’ families was farming, which accounted for about 75% of their total income. Animal husbandry was identified as the second most important source of income for farmers. The correlation between these parameters and biodiversity indices showed that gender, education level, household size, and the percentage of a farmer’s income from cultivation all had an effect on biodiversity indices in the area.