bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potash Extraction and Historical Environmental Conflict in the Bages Region (Spain)
Authors: Gorostiza Langa Santiago
Published: June 2014

Potash extraction in the Bages region (Spain) is the cause of historically significant environmental impacts, such as the salinisation of the Cardener and Llobregat rivers. Recently, several projects that will increase the production of brine and salt tailings in the near future have been announced. Following Martínez-Alier, in this paper I characterize the struggle around potash extraction and its socio-environmental impacts as an ecological distribution conflict and I argue for a historical approach that brings together the analysis of water, potassium and chlorine flows. Despite the relevance of potassium as an irreplaceable plant nutrient together with phosphorus and nitrogen, research about potash extraction related conflicts remains mostly unaddressed. In this case, archival and statistical sources are used to present potash extraction in the Bages in relation to the increase of water salinity in Barcelona during the 20th century. I devote special attention to the technological infrastructures developed in order to technically fix the problem of water salinisation, such as the brine collector or reverse osmosis filters, while highlighting the power relations behind the choice of such technologies. The historical approach to this case study shows that Martínez-Alier’s definition of externalities as cost-shifting successes applies to the economic burdens related to the environmental remediation, mostly covered by public budgets.
Organizational culture in general hospitals and its relationship with job satisfaction
Authors: Skinder Savić Katja , Skela-Savič Brigita
Published: June 2014

Introduction: Organizational culture is formed via communication, resolving conflicts, team work and interconnection. The aim of the study was to present the connections between organizational culture and job satisfaction indicators.

Methods: A quantitative descriptive approach was used. The study included nursing employees and medical practitioners in six Slovenian hospitals. A 30 per cent quota sample was used, with a response rate of 35.2 % (n = 310). The Organization Culture Assessment Instrument (OCAI) (α = 0,818) and Index of Work Satisfaction (α = 0,921) questionnaires were used. The data was processed with SPSS 20.0 statistical software by using the t-test, single variance analysis, correlation, factor and regression analysis.

Results: The greatest total average value among employees of both job groups with regard to organizational culture was the market (x = 28.21) and hierarchy (x = 27.57). Job satisfaction indicators (collaboration, leadership, decision-making, autonomy) can be explained in 20 % of cases with adhocracy organizational culture (β = 0.318, p < 0.001), market (β = 0.219, p < 0.001) and clan (β = 0.161, p = 0.006).

Discussion and conclusion: In Slovenian hospitals, control over work, abiding by the rules and attaining, goals prevails. An overview of the literature reveals the influence of culture on satisfaction. Other factors affecting satisfaction, including stress and abuse of hierarchical power, should be studied.
Financial Reforms and International Trade
Authors: Munasib Abdul , Roy Devesh , Chen Xing
Published: June 2014

We provide evidence that financial reforms (over 1976–2005) significantly affected exports, in particular, of industries with higher external capital dependence and low asset tangibility. The coverage of reforms is comprehensive, encompassing the banking sector, interest rates, equity and international capital markets. Our methodology improves upon existing studies by controlling for time-varying unobserved exporter characteristics and unobserved country-specific industry characteristics. We find significant effects of various reforms with diverse impacts by intensity. Further, event studies that incorporate possible anticipated and lagged effects of commencement of reform policies confirm the findings.
On intermediate conformal nets
Authors: Xu Feng
Published: June 2014

Motivated by our subfactor generalization of Wall's conjecture and interest about completely rational conformal nets in general, in
this paper we show that there is a one-to-one correspondence between intermediate conformal nets in a pair of completely rational nets

𝒜
⊂
ℬ

$\mathcal {A}\subset \mathcal {B}$

with finite index and certain class of fusion rings.
As a consequence we show that our conjecture for the pair

𝒜
⊂
ℬ

$\mathcal {A}\subset \mathcal {B}$

is reduced to a conjecture about fusion rings, and our result also gives a method of enumerating all intermediate conformal nets.
Localizing the Elliott conjecture at strongly self-absorbing C*
-algebras
Authors: Winter Wilhelm
Published: June 2014

We formally introduce the concept of localizing the Elliott conjecture at a given strongly self-absorbing C*
-algebra

𝒟

${\mathcal {D}}$

; we also explain how the known classification theorems for nuclear C*
-algebras fit into this concept. As a new result in this direction, we employ recent results of H. Lin to show that (under a mild K-theoretic condition) the class of separable, unital, simple C*
-algebras with locally finite decomposition rank and UCT, and for which projections separate traces, satisfies the Elliott conjecture localized at the Jiang–Su algebra

𝒵

$\mathcal {Z}$

.
Our main result is formulated in a more general way; this allows us to outline a strategy to possibly remove the trace space condition as well as the K-theory restriction entirely. When regarding both our result and the recent classification theorem of Elliott, Gong and Li as generalizations of the real rank zero case, the two approaches are perpendicular in a certain sense. The strategy to attack the general case aims at combining these two approaches.
Our classification theorem covers simple ASH algebras for which projections separate traces (and the K-groups of which have finitely generated torsion part); it does, however, not at all depend on an inductive limit structure. Also, in the monotracial case it does not rely on the existence or absence of projections in any way. In fact, it is the first such result which, in a natural way, covers all known unital, separable, simple, nuclear and stably finite C*
-algebras of real rank zero (the K-groups of which have finitely generated torsion part) as well as the (projectionless) Jiang–Su algebra itself.
Factors influencing participation in colorectal screening
Authors: Döbrőssy Lajos , Kovács Attila , Cornides Ágnes , Budai András
Published: June 2014

Participation of the target population in coloretal screening is generally low. In addition to demographic and socio-economic factors, the health care system and- in particular – family doctors play an important role. Further, the rate of participation is influenced by psychological, cognitive and behavioural factors, too. The paper analyses factors related to colorectal screening behaviour and potential interventions designed to screening uptake. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(27), 1051–1056.
Alternative method of interface traps passivation by introducing of thin silicon nitride layer at 4H-SiC/SiO2 interface
Authors: Mikhaylov Aleksey I. , Afanasyev Alexey V. , Luchinin Victor V. , Reshanov Sergey A. , Schöner Adolf
Published: June 2014

An alternative approach for reduction of interface traps density at 4H-SiC/SiO2 interface is proposed. Silicon nitride / silicon oxide stack was deposited on p-type 4H-SiC (0001) epilayers and subsequently over-oxidized. The electrical characterization of the interface was done by employing metal-oxide semiconductor (MOS) devices, inversion-channel MOS devices and lateral MOS field effect transistors (MOSFETs).
Low Temperature Growth of Horizontal ZnO Nanorods
Authors: Rivera Abdiel , Mazady Anas , Anwar Mehdi
Published: June 2014

We report the growth of ZnO horizontal (NRs) on p-Si substrate at low temperature without any assisting mechanism. The NRs were grown at 90°C on a ZnO film previously deposited using metal-organic chemical vapor deposition. The horizontal nanowires have diameters in the range of 200 – 500nm and lengths between 1 – 7 µm, depending upon the duration of the growth and the ratio of the precursors. The density of the NRs was controlled by varying the concentration of zinc nitrate (Zn(NO3)2) while keeping hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA) constant. Density of horizontal NRs increased with lower zinc nitrate concentration (from 11.35 to 3.29 mMol) for a growth duration of 18hrs. Increased zinc nitrate concentration of 3.29mMol resulted in an asymmetric growth along the vertical axis due to oxygen termination giving rise to slower growth rates.
Treatment of Irradiated Graphite to Meet Acceptance Criteria for Waste Disposal: Problem and Solutions
Authors: Ojovan Michael I. , Wickham Anthony J.
Published: June 2014

An overview is given of an International Atomic Energy Agency Coordinated Research Project (CRP) on the treatment of irradiated graphite (i-graphite) to meet acceptance criteria for waste disposal. Graphite is a unique radioactive waste stream, with some quarter-million metric tons worldwide eventually needing to be disposed of. The CRP has involved 24 organizations from 10 Member States. Innovative and conventional methods for i-graphite characterization, retrieval, treatment and conditioning technologies have been explored in the course of this work, and offer a range of options for competent authorities in individual Member States to deploy according to local requirements and regulatory conditions.
Deposition Behavior of Supersaturated Silicic Acid in the Condition of Relatively High Ca or Na Concentration
Authors: Chida Taiji , Niibori Yuichi , Shinmura Hayata , Mimura Hitoshi
Published: June 2014

Around the radioactive waste repository, the pH of the groundwater greatly changes from 8 to 13 and the groundwater contains a relatively large quantity of calcium (Ca) and sodium (Na) ions due to cementitious materials used for the construction of the geological disposal system. Under such conditions, the deposition behavior of silicic acid is one of the key factors for the migration assessment of radionuclides. The deposition and precipitation of silicic acid with the change of pH and coexisting ions may contribute to the clogging in flow paths, which is expected as the retardation effect of radionuclides. Thus, this study focused on the deposition behavior of silicic acid under the condition of relatively high Ca or Na concentration.

In the experiments, Na2SiO3 solution (250 ml, 14 mM, pH>10, 298 K) was prepared in a polyethylene vessel containing amorphous silica powder (0.5 g) as the solid phase. Then, a buffer solution (to adjust to 8 in pH), HNO3, and Ca(NO3)2 as Ca ions or NaCl as Na ions were sequentially added. Such a silicic acid solution becomes supersaturated, gradually forming colloidal silicic-acid and/or the deposit on the solid surface. In this study, the both concentrations of soluble and colloidal silicic-acid were monitored over a 40-day period. As a result, the deposition rate of silicic acid decreased with up to 5 mM in Ca ions. Besides, Na ions with up to 0.1 M slightly increased the deposition rate. Under the conditions of [Na+]>0.1 M or [Ca2+]>5 mM, the supersaturated silicic acid immediately deposited. These suggest that Na or Ca ions strongly affect the deposition behavior of supersaturated silicic-acid, depending on the surface alteration of solid phase, the change of zeta potential and the decrease of water-activity due to the addition of electrolytes (coexisting ions).
Quantification Of Pyrrhotiye O2 Consumption By Using Pyrite Oxidation Kinetic Data
Authors: Rojo I. , Clarens F. , de Pablo J. , Domènech C , Duro L. , Grivé M. , Arcos D.
Published: June 2014

Experiments on the dissolution kinetics of natural pyrrhotite (FeS1-x-) and pyrite (FeS2) under imposed redox conditions to evaluate the oxygen uptake capacity of both minerals were carried out at 25°C and 1 bar. Experimental data indicate that in both cases, Fe(II) released from dissolution of these Fe-bearing sulphides is kinetically oxidized to Fe(III) to precipitate as Fe(III)-oxyhydroxides. While the system is pH controlled by the extent of the sulphide oxidation, Eh is controlled by the redox pair Fe2+/Fe(III)-oxyhydroxides. Pyrrhotite dissolution is faster than that of pyrite but generates less acidity. Consequently, the achieved redox value is more reducing. Experimental data show that the oxidation rates of both minerals (in mol·g-1·s-1) are equivalent under the studied conditions. This fact gives a new opportunity to quantify the reductive buffering capacity of pyrrhotite, for which no kinetic rate law has been still established.
Kdsetting approach through semi-quantitative estimation procedures and thermodynamic sorption models: A case study for Horonobe URL conditions
Authors: Tachi Yukio , Ochs Michael , Suyama Tadahiro , Trudel David
Published: June 2014

The use of generic sorption data in PA requires the transfer of the data to the PA-specific conditions. A site-specific Kdsetting approach for PA calculations was tested, comparing two data transfer procedures. First transfer of sorption data can be done through semi-quantitative estimation procedures, by considering differences between experimental and PA geochemical conditions (sorption capacity, radionuclide speciation, competitive reactions, etc.). On the other hand, thermodynamic sorption models allow to estimate Kdvariations directly, based on quasi-mechanistic understanding. The present paper focuses on illustrating example calculations regarding the derivation of Kdvalues, and their uncertainties, of Cs, Ni, Am and Th, for the mineralogical and geochemical conditions of the mudstone system at the Horonobe URL. Clay minerals (illite and smectite) were considered as sorption-relevant minerals in all cases. The Kdsetting results were compared with Kdmeasured for Horonobe mudstone by batch experiments. The results indicate that Kdcan be quantitatively evaluated from generic sorption data when adequate data and models are available. The careful evaluation and conjunctive use of calculated and measured Kdvalues can enhance the reliability of Kdsetting and uncertainty assessments.
Migration Behavior of Selenium in the Presence of Iron in Bentonite
Authors: Idemitsu Kazuya , Kozaki Hikaru , Akiyama Daisuke , Kishimoto Masanao , Yuhara Masaru , Maeda Noriyuki , Inagaki Yaohiro , Arima Tatsumi
Published: June 2014

Selenium (Se) is an important element for assessing the safety of high-level waste disposal. Se is redox-sensitive, and its oxidation state varies from -2 to 6 depending on the redox conditions and pH of the solution. Large quantities of ferrous ions formed in bentonite due to corrosion of carbon steel overpack after the closure of a repository are expected to maintain a reducing environment near the repository. Therefore, the migration behavior of Se in the presence of Fe in bentonite was investigated by electrochemical experiments. Na2SeO3 solution was used as tracer solution. Dry density range of bentonite was from 0.8 to 1.4 ×103 kg/m3.

Results indicated that Se was strongly retained by the processes such as precipitation reaction with ferrous ions in bentonite. Se K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) measurements were performed at the BL-11 beamline at SAGA Light Source, and the results revealed that the oxidation state of Se in the bentonite remained Se(IV).
Improving Islamich Higher Education: Lessons From John Dewey and Ivan Illich
Authors: Abdushomad Muhammad Adib
Published: June 2014

Apart from these research are trying to understand, economic and political philosophy, or ideology, underlies approaches that undertaken by government to deliver their services. In relation to the above discussion, this paper aims to elaborate the two thinkers; John Dewey and Ivan Illich to see how Islamic education could meet human needs, particularly to enhance the institutions that enable people to develop their full potentiality. This paper will elaborate the two thinkers’ perspectives and bring it into real situation in my department. The first section will capture the debate on education and schooling, includes the aims of education, and also approach to educational policy. Following this, the second section is going to analyses John Dewey and Ivan Illich perspectives on education. Thirdly, reconstruct a new way of thinking based on ideological approaches for the directorate of Islamic Higher education (DOIHE) to find out a better way to address some problems occurs recently.
Variation of the ichthyofauna along the Goioerê River: an important tributary of the Piquiri-Paraná basin
Authors: Tos Claudenice Dei , Gomes Luiz C. , Rodrigues Maria A.
Published: June 2014

The construction of reservoirs is considered an important source of impacts on the fish fauna, severely altering the structure of the assemblage. This paper aimed to describe the structure of the fish assemblage of the Goioerê River, determining its longitudinal distribution and patterns of species dominance. The evaluation of its longitudinal variation in the diversity and abundance of the fish assemblage was conducted in July and October 2004 and January and May 2005. The collections were carried out near the headwaters (Gurucaia), middle stretch (Olaria), just above the falls (Paiquerê) and downstream (Foz). Forty-four species were captured. The Gurucaia fish assemblages differed significantly from Olaria, Paiquerê and Foz. The Olaria assemblages differed significantly from the Foz. Gurucaia showed the lowest diversity and abundance of species. Astyanax aff paranae Eigenmann,1914 (78% of the total) was found to be dominant at this site. Almost the same species richness was found at Olaria and Paiquerê, although Olaria had the greatest abundance of individuals. Astyanax aff paranae, Cyphocharax modestus (Fernández-Yépez, 1948) and Astyanax altiparanae Garutti & Britski, 2000 were the top three dominants and comprised over 71% of the total number of fish caught. At Paiquerê, Astyanax altiparanae, Hypostomus aff ancistroides (Ihering, 1911) and Loricariichthys platymetopon Isbrücker & Nijssen, 1979 composed 58% of the catches. Thirty-one species were recorded at Foz, which presented the greatest richness. The most abundant species were Apareiodon affinis (Steindachner, 1879), Galeocharax knerii (Steindachner, 1879) and A.altiparanae, which contributed to 50% of the total catches in this environment.These results record the fish biodiversity and how the community is longitudinally structured in the Goioerê River, and also demonstrate how this type of evaluation is important to understanding the fish community patterns and finding solutions to problems related to the conservation and management of the basin.
Composição e riqueza de anfíbios anuros em remanescentes de Cerrado do Brasil Central
Authors: Gambale Priscilla G. , Woitovicz-Cardoso Manoela , Vieira Raísa R. , Batista Vinícius G. , Ramos Jade , Bastos Rogério P.
Published: June 2014

A diversidade biológica e os processos ecológicos do bioma Cerrado ainda são pouco conhecidos. Neste estudo são apresentadas informações acerca da estrutura da anurofauna do município de Barro Alto, estado de Goiás (Brasil Central). Cinco corpos d'água foram amostrados entre os anos de 2007 a 2010 (outubro-março), três deles associados à área florestal e dois associados à área aberta. Registraram-se 39 espécies de anuros, caracterizados como especialistas de hábitat aberto, florestal ou generalistas. A curva de acumulação de espécies apresentou a formação de uma assíntota, evidenciando que as técnicas e esforço de amostragens foram adequados para se estimar a riqueza de espécies de anuros na região. A riqueza foi influenciada pela umidade e temperatura, já que a maioria das espécies se reproduz na estação quente e chuvosa. Diferenças significativas na composição de espécies entre os sítios reprodutivos de áreas florestais e abertas foram registradas. A fauna de anuros no Cerrado parece ser constituída a partir da heterogeneidade horizontal dos hábitats no espaço. Assim, hábitats contrastantes no espaço são importantes para a manutenção da riqueza da anurofauna, e portanto, relevantes em termos conservacionistas.
Bats (Mammalia, Chiroptera) of an urban park in the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro, southeastern Brazil
Authors: Esbérard Carlos E.L. , Luz Júlia L. , Costa Luciana M. , Bergallo Helena G.
Published: June 2014

Some bat species are able to adapt to urban areas, where they find food and roosts. Despite the high number of parks in Brazilian cities, they did not yet raise the interest of most zoologists, except for some surveys of birds and butterflies. The objectives of the present study were: (i) to inventory the bat species of Quinta da Boa Vista (QBV), a large (25 ha) urban park centrally located in densely populated Rio de Janeiro, which is Brazil's second largest metropolis; (ii) to compare the species richness observed in roosts with the richness recorded through mist netting in flight routes and near fruiting fig trees; and (iii) to analyze recaptures of bats marked in this park and recaptured in other sites and vice-versa. Sampling totaled 104 sampling nights resulting in 3,256 captures (including 133 recaptures) between April 1989 and December 2004. We also sampled roosts and received some specimens from park visitors and city workers. We documented 21 bat species, predominantly large frugivores. The number of expected species for this park was 24.0 ± 4.6, and the total sampled represented 87.5% of the expected. The recapture of bats marked in surrounding forest fragments and in QBV shows the importance of urban parks for the maintenance of bat diversity. Inspection of roosts produced two species that had not been captured with other methods. Sampling near fruiting fig trees did not differ in terms of richness from sampling carried out far from these trees or during their non-fruiting periods.
New species of Rhaphiptera (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) from the Caatinga biome
Authors: Nascimento Francisco E. de L. , Bravo Freddy
Published: June 2014

A new species of Cerambycidae (Lamiinae) is described and illustrated from the Brazilian semi-arid of northeastern Brazil. Rhaphiptera delmari sp. nov. is recorded from Morro do Chapéu municipality in the Bahia State.
Abundância e sazonalidade de Bothriurus signatus (Arachnida, Scorpiones) em diferentes formações vegetais em São Francisco de Paula, RS, Brasil
Authors: Ott Ricardo , Ott Ana Paula
Published: June 2014

Foi realizado levantamento de escorpiões em serrapilheira de três tipos de formações vegetais (florestas primárias, florestas secundárias e silviculturas) em área de Floresta com Araucária no Sul do Brasil. Para a coleta foram utilizadas armadilhas de queda ao longo de 20 meses. No total foram amostrados 165 escorpiões de apenas uma espécie identificada como Bothriurus signatus Pocock, 1893. Machos foram mais abundantes que fêmeas e jovens. A espécie foi mais abundante em áreas de floresta primária e silvicultura do que na floresta secundária. A maior atividade dos escorpiões foi registrada durante a primavera. O comprimento total dos escorpiões adultos coletados variou de 3,05 a 4,52 cm sendo que machos foram significativamente maiores que fêmeas. Nenhuma fêmea grávida foi registrada entre os indivíduos coletados.
Micropropagation and callogenesis in Mandevilla guanabarica (Apocynaceae), an endemic plant from Brazil
Authors: Cordeiro Sandra Zorat , Simas Naomi Kato , Henriques Anaize Borges , Sato Alice
Published: June 2014

Mandevilla guanabarica is an endemic plant from Brazil, with pharmacological and ornamental potential, both unexplored. This study established the best culture medium for in vitro plant maintenance, efficient protocol for its regeneration, and callogenesis from different explants excised from in vitro-grown plants. Woody plant medium with double boron concentration (WPM B) plus 2.27 µM thidiazuron or 0.49 µM 2-isopentenyladenine provided multiplication rates higher than 1:6. Shoots were 100% rooted on WPM B. After acclimatization, plants showed 83% survival. For callogenesis, the use of MS media supplemented with high concentrations of picloram or 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid produced, respectively, friable or compact non-morphogenic calluses from different types of explants. This micropropagation protocol allows the production of seedlings of M. guanabarica for ornamental or commercial uses, and for conservation purposes; calluses can be used to establish suspension cultures in prospecting for bioactive compounds.
Enxugamento de pessoal no Brasil: podem-se atenuar seus efeitos em empresa e indivíduo?
Authors: Caldas Miguel P.
Published: June 2014

O estudo aqui exposto sumariza uma pesquisa empírica qualitativa, de natureza exploratória, cuja meta é ilustrar empiricamente como certos fatores (moderadores - variáveis independentes) sob controle da organização podem mediar os efeitos (variáveis dependentes) de enxugamentos na empresa, nos remanescentes e nos demitidos. O método do estudo foi baseado na análise comparativa em profundidade de um painel de quatro empresas no Brasil que conduziram processos de enxugamentos de pessoal nos últimos anos e inclui o levantamento e a comparação estruturada de dados com a direção de cada empresa, sindicatos, líderes comunitários, demitidos e remanescentes.
Analysis of endometrial thickness measured by transvaginal ultrasonography in obese patients
Authors: Barboza Isabela Corrêa , Depes Daniella de Batista , Vianna Júnior Ilzo , Patriarca Marisa Teresinha , Arruda Raquel Martins , Martins João Alfredo , Lopes Reginaldo Guedes Coelho
Published: June 2014

Objective To compare the endometrial echo values obtained by transvaginal ultrasonography with the body mass index of postmenopausal patients; to verify if there is higher prevalence of endometrial thickening in women with body mass index ≥30.Methods This is an analytical and cross-sectional study that evaluated 294 patients. Postmenopausal women were included, and those on hormone therapy were excluded. The variables evaluated were body mass index (considering obesity if >30), number of pregnancies, years since menopause, and age. These variables were correlated with endometrial echography.Results There was a statistically significant correlation between overweight and obese patients and increased endometrial thickness (p=0.0236). The correlation between age and endometrial echo was negative and statistically significant, that is, the older the woman, the lower the endometrial thickness (p=0.0478). Pregnancies and years since menopause showed no statistical significance in relation to endometrial echo, with p=0.0614 and p=0.115, respectively.Conclusion There was positive and significant correlation between body mass index ≥30 and endometrial thickeness.
A rare case of perineal hamartoma associated with cryptorchidism and imperforate anus: case report
Authors: Yamaçake Kleiton Gabriel Ribeiro , Giron Amilcar Martins , Tannuri Uenis , Srougi Miguel
Published: June 2014

A full-term male neonate with anorectal anomaly and external perineal anomalies was referred to our service. Physical examination showed an epithelized perineal mass with cutaneous orifices, which had urine fistulization, hipotrofic perineal musculature, bilateral congenital clubfoot, hipospadic urethra, criptorquidy bilateral with nonpalpable testis and imperforate anus. A colostomy was constructed immediately after birth. The child underwent excision of perineal mass, bilateral orchidopexy, Duplay neourethroplasty and coloanal anastomosis at 3 months of age. The histopathological examination of the perineal mass revealed a hamartoma.
Vitamin D intoxication: case report
Authors: Marins Tatiana Aporta , Galvão Tatiana de Fátima Gonçalves , Korkes Fernando , Malerbi Domingos Augusto Cherino , Ganc Arnaldo José , Korn Davi , Wagner Jairo , Guerra João Carlos de Campos , Borges Filho Wladimir Mendes , Ferracini Fábio Teixeira , Korkes Hélio
Published: June 2014

Hypervitaminosis D is a rarely reported condition. In general it is only perceived when hypercalcemia is not resolved. The use of vitamin D has increased in recent years because of its benefits, but as a result, intoxication cases have occurred more frequently. This report describes a patient who presented worsening of renal function and hypercalcemia. After investigation, vitamin D intoxication was confirmed and it was due to an error in compounding.
Genetics of End‐Use Quality Differences between a Modern and Historical Spring Wheat
Authors: Sherman Jamie D. , Nash Deanna , Lanning Susan P. , Martin John M. , Blake Nancy K. , Morris Craig F. , Talbert Luther E.
Published: June 2014

The goal of this project was to determine the genetic basis for quality differences between a modern semidwarf spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivar McNeal and a historically important standard height cultivar Thatcher. McNeal is higher yielding with lower grain protein than Thatcher, yet has stronger gluten properties important in bread making. Grain from a total of 160 recombinant inbred lines including 80 semidwarf and 80 standard‐height lines grown in three environments was tested for bread‐making quality. A genetic map of 609 markers was used to identify bread‐making quality quantitative trait loci (QTL) influencing flour protein, dough mixing, and baking properties. The McNeal allele for semidwarf habit at Rht‐D1 had the largest impact on end‐use quality parameters, including flour protein and loaf volume. The primarily negative impact of this allele on quality in McNeal was mitigated by alleles for increased dough strength at other QTL. The allele with the greatest effect on strength was at Gli‐B1. Other alleles for increased end‐use quality, especially alleles impacting flour protein, tended to be negatively associated with previously identified alleles for grain yield and its components. In sum, this paper shows that the introduction of the Rht alleles for semidwarf habit have presented a challenge to the maintenance of superior end‐use quality in modern hard red spring wheat cultivars.
Freezing Low Volume Aqueous Solutions to Preserve Ammonia and Nitrate plus Nitrite
Authors: Menchyk Nicholas , Park Dara , Moon Phillip H. , Unruh J. Bryan , Trenholm Laurie E.
Published: June 2014

Analysis of N and P in leachate is important in studying the fate of fertilizers after they are applied to turfgrass and landscape plants. Depending on environmental factors, in situ leachate samples collected from the field are often less than 20 mL. Due to the time and resource commitment of N and P analysis, it is desirable for many samples to be collected before analysis is conducted. In addition, past research has documented that acid preservation of low volume samples for N analysis can lead to inaccurate P measurements. Two experiments conducted in June 2007 and August 2008 compared ammonia‐nitrogen (NH3–N) and nitrite‐nitrogen plus nitrate‐nitrogen (NO2–N + NO3–N) concentrations within low volume samples preserved by freezing to other commonly used preservation techniques, including the accepted USEPA method. All preservation methods, including storage at less than −20°C, resulted in NH3 and NO2 + NO3 concentrations similar to concentrations measured in immediately analyzed aliquots. Freezing low volume leachate water samples for later N analysis is an adequate method of preservation.
Minimum energy control of fractional positive continuous-time linear systems with bounded inputs
Authors: Kaczorek Tadeusz
Published: June 2014

A minimum energy control problem for fractional positive continuous-time linear systems with bounded inputs is formulated and solved. Sufﬁcient conditions for the existence of a solution to the problem are established. A procedure for solving the problem is proposed and illustrated with a numerical example.
Tracking an omnidirectional evader with a differential drive robot at a bounded variable distance
Authors: Ruiz Ubaldo , Marroquin Jose Luis , Murrieta-Cid Rafael
Published: June 2014

In this paper, we address the pursuit-evasion problem of tracking an Omnidirectional Agent (OA) at a bounded variable distance using a Differential Drive Robot (DDR), in an Euclidean plane without obstacles. We assume that both players have bounded speeds, and that the DDR is faster than the evader, but due to its nonholonomic constraints it cannot change its motion direction instantaneously. Only a purely kinematic problem is considered, and any effect due to dynamic constraints (e.g., acceleration bounds) is neglected. We provide a criterion for partitioning the conﬁguration space of the problem into two regions, so that in one of them the DDR is able to control the system, in the sense that, by applying a speciﬁc strategy (also provided), the DDR can achieve any inter-agent distance (within an error bound), regardless of the actions taken by the OA. Particular applications of these results include the capture of the OA by the DDR and maintaining surveillance of the OA at a bounded variable distance.
A robust computational technique for a system of singularly perturbed reaction–diffusion equations
Authors: Kumar Vinod , Bawa Rajesh K. , Lal Arvind K.
Published: June 2014

In this paper, a singularly perturbed system of reaction–diffusion Boundary Value Problems (BVPs) is examined. To solve such a type of problems, a Modified Initial Value Technique (MIVT) is proposed on an appropriate piecewise uniform Shishkin mesh. The MIVT is shown to be of second order convergent (up to a logarithmic factor). Numerical results are presented which are in agreement with the theoretical results.
A support vector machine with the tabu search algorithm for freeway incident detection
Authors: Yao Baozhen , Hu Ping , Zhang Mingheng , Jin Maoqing
Published: June 2014

Automated Incident Detection (AID) is an important part of Advanced Trafﬁc Management and Information Systems (ATMISs). An automated incident detection system can effectively provide information on an incident, which can help initiate the required measure to reduce the inﬂuence of the incident. To accurately detect incidents in expressways, a Support Vector Machine (SVM) is used in this paper. Since the selection of optimal parameters for the SVM can improve prediction accuracy, the tabu search algorithm is employed to optimize the SVM parameters. The proposed model is evaluated with data for two freeways in China. The results show that the tabu search algorithm can effectively provide better parameter values for the SVM, and SVM models outperform Artiﬁcial Neural Networks (ANNs) in freeway incident detection.
Bivariate Hahn moments for image reconstruction
Authors: Wu Haiyong , Yan Senlin
Published: June 2014

This paper presents a new set of bivariate discrete orthogonal moments which are based on bivariate Hahn polynomials with non-separable basis. The polynomials are scaled to ensure numerical stability. Their computational aspects are discussed in detail. The principle of parameter selection is established by analyzing several plots of polynomials with different kinds of parameters. Appropriate parameters of binary images and a grayscale image are obtained through experimental results. The performance of the proposed moments in describing images is investigated through several image reconstruction experiments, including noisy and noise-free conditions. Comparisons with existing discrete orthogonal moments are also presented. The experimental results show that the proposed moments outperform slightly separable Hahn moments for higher orders.
Numerical Modelling of Stress/Strain Field Arising in Diamond-Impregnated Cobalt
Authors: Borowiecka-Jamrozek J. , Lachowski J.
Published: June 2014

The paper presents results of computer simulations of the stress/strain field built up in a cobalt matrix diamond impregnated saw blade segment during its fabrication and after loading the protruding diamond with an external force. The main objective of this work was to create better understanding of the factors affecting retention of diamond particles in a metallic matrix of saw blade segments, which are produced by means of the powder metallurgy technology.

The effective use of diamond impregnated tools strongly depends on mechanical and tribological properties of the matrix, which has to hold the diamond grits firmly. The diamond retention capability of the matrix is affected in a complex manner by chemical or mechanical interactions between the diamond crystal and the matrix during the segment manufacture. Due to the difference between the thermal expansion coefficients of the diamond and metallic matrix, a complex stress/strain field is generated in the matrix surrounding each diamond crystal.

It is assumed that the matrix potential for diamond retention can be associated with the amount of the elastic and plastic deformation energy and the size of the deformation zone occurring in the matrix around diamonds. The stress and strain fields generated in the matrix were calculated using the Abaqus software. It was found that the stress and strain fields generated during segment fabrication change to a large extent as the diamond crystal emerges from the cobalt matrix to reach its working height of protrusion.
The Prediction of Surface Temperature in Drilling of Ti6Al4V
Authors: Işik B. , Kentli A.
Published: June 2014

Titanium and its alloys are attractive materials due to their unique high strength-weight ratio that is maintained at elevated temperatures and their exceptional corrosion resistance. The major application of titanium has been in the aerospace industry. However, the focus shift of market trends from military to commercial and aerospace to industry also been reported. On the other hand, titanium and its alloys are notorious for their poor thermal properties and are classified as difficult-to-machine materials. These properties limit the use of these materials especially in the markets where cost is much more of a factor than in aerospace. Machining is an important manufacturing process because it is almost always involved if precision is required and is the most effective process for small volume production. Due to the low machinability of the alloys under study, selecting the machining conditions and parameters is crucial. The range of feeds and cutting speeds, which provide a satisfactory tool life, is very limited. On the other hand, adequate tool, coating, geometry and cutting flow materials should be used: otherwise, the high wear of the tool, and the possible tolerance errors, would introduce unacceptable flaws in parts that require a high degree of precision.

In this study, heat changes of Ti6Al4V has been examined on the basis of cutting parameters such as depth of cut, feedrate and cutting speed during drilling. Heat changes of the material and tool was monitored by a thermal camera. Maximum temperatures of the experiments were taken to examine optimum cutting parameters. Obtained results have been used to generate a regression analysis and it is seen that regression has given accurate data.
Interaction of Non-Metallic Inclusion Particles with Advancing Solidification Front
Authors: Kalisz D.
Published: June 2014

This work deals the phenomenon interaction of crystallization front on the particles of non-metallic precipitates. The behavior of a single particle in the vicinity of horizontal and vertical front was analyzed. The forces acting on the particle were characterized and the equilibrium condition formulated, from which the critical velocity of front may be deduced. The calculation results were illustrated in the form of graphs.
The Effect of Liquid Aluminium on the Corrosion of Carbonaceous Materials
Authors: Pietrzyk S. , Palimaka P. , Gębarowski W.
Published: June 2014

During different aluminum smelting processes occur direct contact of liquid metal and carbon materials, which are the main constituent for the lining of the cells, furnaces, crucibles and ladles, etc. As a result, processes of aluminium carbide formation at the interfacial area and its subsequent dissolution occurs. Those are recognized as one of the most important mechanisms causing surface wear and decrease lifetime of the equipment, especially in aluminium electrolysis. Present work is aimed at deeper study of the initial steps of Al4C3 formation at the aluminium/ carbon interface. Three types of carbonaceous materials: amorphous, semigraphitic and graphitized, in the presence and absence of cryolite melts, were examined. As it is very difficult to study layer of Al4C3 in situ, two indirect experimental techniques were used to investigate aluminium carbide formation: measurements of the potential and the electrical resistance. It was concluded that the process of early formation of aluminium carbide depends on many processes associated with the presence of electrolyte (intercalation, penetration and dissolution) as well as the structure of carbon materials - especially the presence of the disordered phase.
Electrodeposition of Zirconium from DMSO Solution
Authors: Simka W. , Majewski D. , Nawrat G. , Krząkała A. , Nieużyła Ł. , Michalska J.
Published: June 2014

Investigations of voltammetry zirconium deposition from DMSO solution on different substrates were taken. It was found that this is multi-electron process proceeding in a few stages. Moreover, zirconium layers were obtained on titanium, copper stainless steel and nickel. Obtained deposit was in form of white powder, which immediately was oxidized to ZrO2 in the presence of air.
Thermodynamic Description Of Ternary Fe-B-X Systems. Part 2: Fe-B-Ni
Authors: Miettinen J. , Vassilev G.
Published: June 2014

A thermodynamic description of the ternary Fe-B-Ni system is presented in the context of a new Fe-B-X (X = Cr, Ni, Mn, Si, Ti, V, C) database. The thermodynamic parameters of the binary sub-systems, Fe-B, Fe-Ni and B-Ni, are taken from earlier assessments slightly modifying the B-Ni description. Those of the Fe-B-Ni system are optimized in this study using experimental thermodynamic and phase equilibrium data from the literature. The solution phases of the system are described using the substitutional solution model and the borides are treated as stoichiometric or semi-stoichiometric phases of the (A,B)pCq type described with two-sublattice model.
Oxidation Resistance of Alcrn Coating Deposited on Ti-46Al-7Nb-0.7Cr-0.1Si-0.2Ni Alloy
Authors: Małecka J.
Published: June 2014

This article presents the results of research on resistance to isothermal oxidation of Ti-46Al-7Nb-0,7Cr-0,1Si-0,2Ni alloy with AlCrN layer applied. The reference material was a Ti-46Al-7Nb-0,7Cr-0,1Si-0,2Ni alloy in initial state without any coating deposited. The protective coating was deposited by PVD process. Attempts at isothermal oxidation in air were performed at 900 and 950°C during 250h. Measurements of the samples’ mass were taken with the accuracy of 10-4 g. An analysis of the obtained results was made: chemical composition analysis, phase analysis of the deposited coating and chemical composition analysis of the alloy surface with the coating deposited after oxidation tests. In the case of the oxidation of alloy in initial state, pronouncedly higher mass gain and ”deferred” scale chipping was noticed. The deposited AlCrN coating significantly reduces spalling processes and makes for lesser mass gain of the oxidized alloy.
Methods of Additive Manufacturing used in the Technology of Skeleton Castings
Authors: Piekło J. , Maj M.
Published: June 2014

Rapid development of the methods of additive manufacturing (AM) introduces a number of changes to the design of foundry equipment. AM methods are of particular importance in the development of technology to make small lots of castings or single cast items of complex shapes, such as skeleton castings manufactured also by means of other technologies [1]. AM methods create the possibility of making single-use moulds, cores and wax patterns, as well as patterns made from plastics for repeated use. The development of AM techniques gives theoretically unlimited possibilities in the choice of the designed casting configurations. This fact can be used during the analysis of casting mechanical properties based on the methods of topology optimisation [2], [3], [17], when the said optimisation carried out at the initial stage of design ”matches” the shape of parts to the field of stresses or displacements caused by external load and fixing mode. The article discusses the possibilities and advantages that result from combining the new methods of shaping the casting endurance with AM technologies.
Measurement of Electrical Properties as Effectiveness Appraisal of Microwave Absorption by Moulding and Core Sands Subject to Microwave Utilization
Authors: Nowak D. , Granat K. , Opyd B.
Published: June 2014

Within the research, carried-out were examinations of foundry rejects in form of waste moulding and core sands in order to determine effectiveness of the microwave utilization process. Presented are measurements of permittivity and loss tangent that determine behaviour of materials in electromagnetic field. Measurements were performed on a stand of waveguide resonance cavity that permits precise determination of the above-mentioned parameters with the perturbation method. Examination results of five waste moulding sands confirm that effectiveness of microwave utilization depends on electrical properties of the sandmixes (permittivity and loss tangent).
Alternative Evaluation of the Properties of the Silica Sands
Authors: Beňo J. , Mikšovský F. , Jelínek P. , Konečná K. , Smysl P.
Published: June 2014

For the evaluation of silica sands, which belongs to the most employed sands of foundry molding mixtures, there are a number of methods and techniques to characterize their quality. This implies good knowledge of their strengths and weaknesses. However, a small proportion of published results are dedicated to the impact of transport on transport routes in the foundry and the processes of dry reclamation on the properties of the silica sands, in particular on changes to the granulometry and the formation of undesirable dust sands shares, which significantly affect the properties of the sand mixture.

The aim of this contribution is the evaluation of inclination of the silica sand to crush (the formation of dust, change the granulometry) according to the newly developed methodology with regard to its nature of sand (genesis, the shape of the grains, the character of the surface).
The Measurement of High-Temperature Expansion as the Standard of Estimation the Knock-Out Properties of Moulding Sands with Hydrated Sodium Silicate
Authors: Major-Gabryś K. , Dobosz S.M. , Jelínek P. , Jakubski J. , Beňo J.
Published: June 2014

The necessity of receiving high quality castings forces undertaking research to elaborate moulding and core sands ensuring obtaining the materials with relevant technological parameters and also with high environmental standards. The most important group here are moulding sands with hydrated sodium silicate. Unfortunately, their fundamental disadvantages are weak knock-out properties. The article presents the most commonly used methods of measuring the knock-out properties of moulding and core sands. The authors propose a new method for estimation this parameter. The method is based on the measurement of high-temperature expansion.
Structure and Properties Research of Casts Made with Copper Alloys Matrix
Authors: Rzadkosz S. , Garbacz-Klempka A. , Kozana J. , Piękoś M. , Kranc M.
Published: June 2014

The article presents the research results obtained at the Department of Foundry of Non-Ferrous Metals at the Foundry Faculty of AGH, the University of Science and Technology, in Krakow. The research comprises the processes connected with the technology of melting, refining and making casts based on copper matrix, both contemporary and historical, especially bronzes containing tin, zinc and lead. These issues are well-known but they still pose problems for contemporary foundries. The article presents the results of modifying formulas on the improvement of mechanical properties and limiting casting defects.