bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Catholic Perspective on Interreligious Peacebuilding in the Himalaya
Authors: Evans Joe
Published: October 2024

Armed conflict, economic poverty, human trafficking, and gender discrimination are among the problems that most impact vulnerable women in the Himalaya. These challenges, common to the rest of South Asia and other parts of the world, are exacerbated by political, social, and cultural norms in mountainous regions that promote violence and facilitate insurgencies. Furthermore, geographic separation and cultural biases contribute to the political and economic marginalization of mountain peoples, which can lead to the belief that violence is the only reasonable option for gaining a voice. Nevertheless, the Himalaya encompasses a variety of vibrant religious traditions that promote peace and justice, of which Catholicism is a small minority. As such, it is crucial for Catholic peace builders to adopt an effective inter religious, intercultural, and cooperative approach for these problems. This project will examine Catholic peace building to identify the reasons, methods, and implications for an inter religious approach in the Himalaya. After summarizing the foundation and principles of Catholic peace building, I will consider the specific challenges in the Himalayan context. Subsequently, I will examine the similarities and differences in Catholic, Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist understandings of peace.Finally, I will offer an analysis of how Catholic peace building can be most successful in the Himalaya. While the predominant models of Catholic peace building have been successfully implemented in regions that are largely Christian, these approaches can struggle to effectively engage across religious, cultural, and political boundaries. In summary, this essay argues that an inter religious approach is necessary to build peace amid these challenges.
The museum and digital transformation: reforming national museums in Nigeria towards a new normal
Authors: Adelakun Tufayl Olamilekan
Published: October 2024

Nigeria is home to 53 National Museums, 65 National Monuments, and 2 world heritage sites. The development of information, communication, and technology (ICT) in the twenty-first century has led to a digital transformation of museums, with the use of digital tools in areas like virtual tours and visits, exhibitions, performances, concerts, and documentation, among others. Unfortunately, for a number of reasons that will be discussed in this paper, Nigeria is still falling behind in this age of digital transformation. This essay examines the history of museums and the idea of 21st-century digital change. It examines the numerous strategies that museums throughout the world have embraced in an attempt to draw in more visitors and maintain their financial viability over time. A comprehensive understanding of digital transformation requires an analysis of its drivers and constraints using a variety of theoretical frameworks. This study uses a qualitative method for data collection and analysis. The historical research design is applied in this study. Primary and secondary sources of data were gathered for this research study from books, journal articles, newspaper editorials, conference proceedings, magazines, websites, and new media are some of the resources that are used in the data collection process drawn from selected relevant museums, cultural agencies, literatures,curators, and scholars. The research comes to the conclusion that national museums must embrace a national model for digital transformation in order to transform digitally. This would ensure that the museum stays relevant in the twenty-first century while protecting its unique cultural legacy and help save a lot of jobs. Museum stakeholders were given recommendations based on strong evidence, with a special emphasis on Nigeria, about how to continue to be relevant in fostering meaningful debate in the era of digitization.
Elusive Quest for Social Justice in Mahananda Dhakal’s Burhan
Authors: Chaudhary Lal Bahadur
Published: October 2024

Everyone in the world deserves equal economic, political and social rights and opportunities. Every individual’s rights and opportunities should be recognized and protected within the society where they belong. This is the state of “social justice”. Social justice is inevitable as it promotes fairness and equity across different aspects of society. However, underprivileged people are denied social justice in an unjust society, resulting in missed opportunities across various sectors of life. As a result, a person may experience a cascade of difficulties in other different areas too. Burhan’s hero Maila Tharu, and other characters also go through similar phases of unfavorable conditions, struggles and sufferings. This proves to be the destiny of underprivileged people in an unjust society, where the quest for social justice is elusive.
This paper explores and analyzes persistent struggles for social justice in Mahananda Dhakal’s Burhan. It attempts to explore different ways of exploitation and victimization of such innocent and helpless characters. This paper also contends that such characters are denied rights and opportunities within the society, and kicked out from their own land and properties. Through the critical analysis of the character’s experiences, the paper examines the elusive nature of social justice in Burhan. The paper finally argues that Burhan serves as a powerful commentary on the ongoing struggle equity and the critical need for transformative change.
Behind the curtain: External Examiners’ Experiences about Thesis Evaluation
Authors: Tiwari Hari Prasad
Published: October 2024

Evaluating a thesis is important because it ensures that students’ research is valuable and meets high academic standards before they are awarded their degrees. The study aimed at exploring the experiences of university-level English teachers as external examiners for Master of Education (M.Ed.) theses in English Education at the Faculty of Education (FoE), Tribhuvan University (TU). Sample population this qualitative study consisted of 17 University-level English Education teachers who worked as external examiners to evaluate the theses written by M.Ed. students specialized in English Education. The researcher employed judgmental sampling to select the sample. He used semi-structured interview technique to collect the data. The data was analyzed employing thematic approach of qualitative data analysis. Findings revealed several systemic issues in the thesis evaluation process. Participants noted thesis evaluation as ritualistic practices where procedures often became routine. This leads to inconsistencies and compromised evaluation quality. Supervisors' unfamiliarity with thesis writing guidelines prepared by Foe created further challenges. This unfamiliarity also affects feedback quality and evaluation standards. The study also identified variability in thesis quality, difficulties in integrating feedback, and ethical concerns, such as requests for biased evaluations. Time constraints emerged as a critical issue which limits the depth of review and feedback. Additionally, misalignment between examiner expectations and institutional requirements, along with inadequate institutional support, further complicated the evaluation process. These findings underscore the need for a re-examination of evaluation practices, enhanced training for supervisors, and improved institutional support to ensure a fair, consistent, and effective thesis evaluation process.
‘राष्ट्रनिर्माता’ खण्डकाव्यमा रहस्य दर्शनको प्रभाव
Authors: ढुङ्गाना लावण्यप्रसाद
Published: October 2024

‘राष्ट्रनिर्माता’ -२०२३_ खण्डकाव्यमा अभिव्यक्त रहस्यसम्बन्धी दर्शनको अध्ययनलाई प्रस्तुत शोधलेखमा विषय बनाइएको छ । ‘राष्ट्रनिर्माता’ ऐतिहासिक विषयवस्तुमा आधारित रहस्य दर्शनको प्रभाव रहेको कृति हो । यसअध्ययनमा ‘राष्ट्रनिर्माता’ खण्डकाव्यमा केकस्तो रहस्यको प्रभाव छ र उक्त प्रभावको ग्रहण कविले किन गरेका हुन् भन्ने जिज्ञासाको समाधान खोजिएको छ । यस अध्ययनका लागि आवश्यक प्राथमिक तथा द्वितीयक स्रोतका सामग्रीहरू पुस्तकालयीय कार्यबाट सङ्कलन गरिएका छन् । प्रस्तुत अध्ययनका लागि रहस्य विषयक षड्दर्शनका मत तथा उक्त दर्शनका अध्येताहरूका रहस्यसम्बन्धी धारणालाई सैद्धान्तिक पर्याधारका रूपमा लिइएको छ र तर्क तथा विश्लेषण विधिको पनि उपयोग गरिएको छ । यस अध्ययनमा ‘राष्ट्रनिर्माता’ खण्डकाव्यको विषयवस्तु ऐतिहासिक र मूल कथ्यराष्ट्रप्रेम रहे पनि उक्त राष्ट्रप्रेमलाई सुदृढ, महिमामय एवम् जीवन्त तुल्याउन रहस्य दर्शनको सचेत प्रभाव ग्रहण गरिएको निष्कर्ष निकालिएको छ ।
Uniwersytet Warszawski. Kampus historyczny i jego dzieje
Authors:   University of Warsaw, Miziołek Jerzy , Pieszczurykow Jerzy ,   University of Warsaw, Tyszkiewicz Adam ,   Museum of the History of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw
Published: October 2024

The publication is the first comprehensive study of history and historical architecture of Warsaw University buildings located within Krakowskie Przedmieście and Oboźna Streets and the Visitationist Church adjacent to them. This unique urban development was created in the place of the former residence of the Vasa royal dynasty (the 17th century), expanded and transformed into the Warsaw Corps of Cadets (2nd half of the 18th century), and finally into the university campus (the 19th century).The authors talk about the complex history of the Warsaw Alma Mater in several richly illustrated chapters devoted to historic buildings, focusing not only on architecture, but also on the figures of professors and alumni of the University – eminent representatives of Polish science and culture.
The implication of Canvas to enhance English language teaching and learning: A case study conducted at the Nawaloka College of Higher Studies
Authors: Wazeer S.
Published: October 2024

Technology has had a significant impact on education over the past few decades leading to a transition from paper-based learning towards digital tools. In response, learning management systems were integrated to assist classroom management. However, the perceptions of its users are crucial in determining the success of technology integration. Given that, the study aims to investigate the implication of the Canvas application to enhance English language teaching and learning at Nawaloka College of Higher Studies, Sri Lanka focusing on its user perceptions. Using the qualitative research approach, a questionnaire consisting of both close-ended and open-ended questions was distributed among a sample of 100 students from Engineering and Business backgrounds following the Academic and Communication Skills A module and 6 experienced English teachers. Accordingly, thematic analysis exercised on the data indicated the ease of use, increased motivation and accessibility as contributing to the user’s positive attitude when using the application. Thus, with the identification of benefits achieved through Canvas which outweigh the difficulties such as poor network and lack of knowledge in technology; the study recommends the necessity for higher studies institutes to integrate the same for an enhanced English language teaching and learning experience in tertiary education.
Consolidation of Publicly Funded Outpatient Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Services in Winnipeg, Manitoba: Effects on Accessibility and Service Delivery
Authors: Parsons Joanne L , Webber Sandra C , Crawford Tory , Sargent Shelley , Tittlemier Brenda , Wittmeier Kristy , Chuchmach Loring
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

In 2017, publicly funded outpatient musculoskeletal physiotherapy services in Winnipeg, Manitoba were consolidated by closing seven hospital-based departments and limiting access to patients who met specific diagnostic criteria. Our purpose was to compare service delivery metrics and patient demographics before and after service consolidation.

Methods:

We used an exploratory, retrospective cohort study design. Service delivery metrics and patient demographics were obtained from the regional database and compared using inferential statistics.

Results:

Initial physiotherapy assessments conducted per month decreased by 85.4% (absolute numbers decreased from 18,261 initial assessments in 23 months pre-consolidation to 6,715 in 61 months post-consolidation). Treatment duration (days from assessment to discharge) increased, whereas the number of appointments per patient and wait times decreased (all p < 0.001). The mean age of patients decreased by 5.2 years ( p < 0.001). More patients with wrist/hand conditions and fewer patients with surgical knee and hip conditions were seen post-consolidation. Patients attending at both time points generally came from the same neighborhoods, and measures of deprivation and marginalization were intermediate or higher on Canadian Index of Multiple Deprivation scales.

Conclusions:

Closing publicly funded outpatient physiotherapy services and changing eligibility limited access for many patients who may no longer be able to access necessary care if they cannot afford private services.
Diversity of birds in and around Kohima Science College campus, Jotsoma, Kohima, Nagaland (India)
Authors: Kachhara Chetan
Published: October 2024

The present study on Birds diversity in the Kohima Science College campus and surrounding areas (India) was done over a period of six months from September 2023 to May 2024. A total number of 48 bird species belonging to 27 families were recorded during the study covering an area of about 3.2 km2. The family Muscicapidae was found to be dominant with a 13% contribution followed by families like Laniidae, Leiothrichidae, Cuculidae and Pycnonotidae with a 6% contribution which is further followed by families like Columbidae, Hirundinidae, Motacillidae, Paridae and others with 4% contribution.
Ichthyofaunal Diversity and Water Quality Parameters in Talisay and Bagac River Systems, Bataan, Luzon Island, Philippines
Authors: Corpuz Mark Nell C. , Nacorda Hildie Maria E. , Casal Christine Marie E. , Faustino-Eslava Decibel V. , Jaranilla-Sanchez Patricia Ann , Vedra Sonnie A. , M. Paguia Hermogenes , Espaldon Ma. Victoria O.
Published: October 2024

The fishery resources and hydrological data in the major river systems in Bataan (Philippines) are poorly studied. A preliminary study was conducted to assess the fish assemblages and water quality parameters along the three stream sections of Talisay and Bagac river systems (Luzon Island). The study collected 977 fish individuals from 50 species and 34 families; 28 fish species were observed in Talisay, whilst Bagac had 37 fish species. Forty-two fish species (84%) were categorized as native in the studied rivers. Family Gobiidae comprised the largest number of species in either river. Introduced or exotic fish species from the families Cichlidae and Cyprinidae comprised 16% of the total identified fish taxa. Among the cichlid family, the Sarotherodon melanotheron was the most abundant fish species (Talisay: n = 118; Bagac: n = 134). Shannon-Weiner’s diversity index in Bagac (H = 2.47) was higher than in Talisay (H = 1.91). The similarity rate of stream sections was low (27.28%) based on fish assemblage characteristics. In the ten water quality parameters, the levels of biological oxygen demand, fecal coliform, and total suspended solids exceeded the normal range for a Class C water body classification (agri-fisheries purposes), particularly in the midstream and downstream sections of the studied rivers. The present study supplied ecological datasets that can be adopted as bases to enhance the river conservation management measures in the region.
Faunistic notes and new taxa of the genus Carabus Linnaeus, 1758 (Coleoptera Carabidae) of Shanxi Province, China
Authors: Rapuzzi Ivan
Published: October 2024

Faunistic notes of the genus Carabus Linnaeus, 1758 (Coleoptera Carabidae) from North China, Shanxi Province are provided. Two new species are also described and figured: Carabus (Cychrostomus) anchocephalus rectigranulatus n. subsp. and C. (Morphocarabus) latreillei shanxiensis n. subsp.
Comparison of the ASME Welding Qualification Code Requirements for Power Plants
Authors: Barborak Darren , McCracken Steven L.
Published: October 2024

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Codes (BPVC) and Code for Pressure Piping have been utilized extensively for the construction and maintenance of plants in the power generation industry. These codes consist of different relevant sections that are applicable to the various pressure retaining components and their service application. This paper presents a comparison of the welding requirements between the various ASME construction codes outside of the qualification requirements within Section IX. Topics of discussion include preheat temperature, interpass temperature, postweld heat treatment, toughness testing, filler material requirements, and use of standard welding procedure specifications. Individual paragraphs and subparagraphs specific to these topics are compared and contrasted to establish their similarities and differences.
Damage and Cracking in 1CrMoV Casings: Why and How to Repair?
Authors: Burgess D. Joshua , Perrin Ian
Published: October 2024

Thick-walled valves, steam chests, and casings suffer service damage from thermal stresses due to the significant through-thickness temperature gradients that occur during operating transients. Fatigue is the primary damage mechanism, but recent examination of turbine casings has revealed extensive sub-surface creep cavitation. The low primary stress levels for these components are unlikely to cause creep damage, so detailed inelastic analysis was performed to understand the complex stress state that evolves in these components. This illustrates that fatigue cycles can cause elevated stresses during steady operation that cause creep damage. This paper will explore a case study for a 1CrMoV turbine casing where the stress-strain history during operating transients will be related to damage in samples from the turbine casing. This will also highlight how service affects the mechanical properties of 1CrMoV, highlighting the need for service- exposed property data to perform mechanical integrity assessments. Finally, the consequences for repair of damage will be discussed, illustrating how analysis can guide volume of material for excavation and selection of weld filler metal to maximize the life of the repair. This, in turn, will identify opportunities for future weld repair research and material property data development.
Steam Oxidation Resistance in a Long Term Exposure of the Modified Laser Powder Bed Fusion 699XA Alloy at High Temperature
Authors: Dudziak T. , Rząd E. , Polkowska A. , Polczyk T. , Rob P. , Narayana Samy V. , Verma B. , Sulak I. , Nowak B. , Krupp U.
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the steam oxidation behavior of Alloy 699 XA, a material containing 30 wt.% chromium and 2 wt.% aluminum that forms protective oxide scales in low-oxygen conditions. The research compares four variants of the alloy: conventional bulk material, a laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) additively manufactured version, and two modified compositions. The modified versions include MAC-UN-699-G, optimized for gamma-prime precipitation, and MAC-ISIN-699, which underwent in-situ internal nitridation during powder atomization. All variants were subjected to steam oxidation testing at 750°C and 950°C for up to 5000 hours, with interim analyses conducted at 2000 hours. The post-exposure analysis employed X-ray diffraction (XRD) to identify phase development and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) to examine surface morphology, cross-sectional microstructure, and chemical composition. This study addresses a significant knowledge gap regarding the steam oxidation behavior of 699 XA alloy, particularly in its additively manufactured state.
Investigation into Creep Strength of Inconel Alloy 740H Thin-Walled Welded Tubing for Concentrating Solar Power Applications
Authors: Griscom Eeva , Shingledecker John , Purdy Dan , deBarbadillo John , Baker Brian , Gollihue Ronald
Published: October 2024

To improve the economics of critical components, such as receivers and heat exchangers, for Generation 3 (Gen 3) concentrating solar power (CSP) plants, research was conducted to understand how manufacturing impacts the high-temperature performance of various tube production routes. Gen 3 CSP components are expected to require the use of heat-resistant nickel- based alloys due to the elevated operating temperatures in designs carrying molten salt or supercritical CO2. INCONEL alloy 740H (alloy 740H) was investigated as an alternative to UNS N06230 (alloy 230) as it possesses superior high-temperature creep strength which can lead to overall reductions in material cost. A key challenge is understanding how autogenous seam welding with and without re-drawing can be used to manufacture thin-wall tubing for CSP receivers and heat-exchangers to further reduce costs over traditional seamless production routes. Alloy 740H welded tube was successfully fabricated and re-drawn to several relevant tube sizes. Since traditional mechanical testing samples could not be removed from the thin-wall tubing, full-sized tubes were used for tensile, fatigue, and vessel testing (internally pressurized creep- rupture) which was critical to understanding the weld performance of the manufactured product forms. The generated vessel test data exhibited a creep strength reduction when compared to wrought product with no clear trend with temperature or test duration. It was found that redrawing the welded tubes improved the creep strength to approximately 82% of the wrought material performance and elevated temperature tensile and fatigue behavior exceeded 85% of the design minimums. Detailed, post-test characterization found that nano-sized carbides formed during the laser seam-welding process remained stable after multiple solution-annealing steps, which restricted grain growth, and impacted the time-dependent performance. This paper will focus on the time-dependent behavior of the examined welded and redrawn tubes, supporting metallographic evidence, and give perspective on future considerations for using alloy 740H in CSP components.
Steel Casting Process Development: Advanced Processing of Martensitic 9-10% Cr Steels and Nickel-Base Alloy 625
Authors: Hanus Reinhold , Linz voestalpine Giesserei
Published: October 2024

The voestalpine foundry group, operating at locations in Linz and Traisen, Austria, specializes in heavy steel casting components ranging from 1 to 200 tons for power generation, oil and gas, chemical processing, and offshore applications. Their manufacturing expertise encompasses high-alloyed martensitic 9-12% Cr-steels and nickel-based Alloy 625, particularly for ultra-supercritical (USC) and advanced USC power generation systems operating at temperatures from 600°C to over 700°C. The production of these complex, thick-walled components relies on advanced thermodynamic calculation and simulation for all thermal processes, from material development through final casting. The foundries’ comprehensive capabilities include specialized melting, molding, heat treatment, non-destructive testing, and fabrication welding, with particular emphasis on joining dissimilar cast, forged, and rolled materials. Looking toward future innovations, the group is exploring additive manufacturing for mold production and robotic welding systems to enhance shaping and surface finishing capabilities.
Assessment of Super Duplex Stainless Steel Welding using Hyper Duplex Filler Metal: Microstructure and Corrosion Performance
Authors: Leon-Henao Henry , Riffel Kaue C. , Acuna Andres , Ramirez Antonio J.
Published: October 2024

Super Duplex stainless steels (SDSS) are alloys based on the Fe-Cr-Ni-N system. The chemical composition is tailored to achieve a balanced microstructure of 50% ferrite and 50% austenite. Hyper Duplex Stainless Steels (HDSS) are also duplex materials distinguished by their remarkable yield strength (≥700 MPa) and corrosion resistance (PREN>48). They have been developed as an alternative to the well-established SDSS when superior mechanical and corrosion performance is required. This enhanced performance is attributed to alloying additions, primarily Cr, Mo, and N. In this study, a comparison is conducted between filler metals of SDSS and HDSS for the root welding of SDSS plates. The gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) process was used to carry out root welding passes and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) for filling passes on SDSS substrates arranged in a V groove to simulate a repair scenario. The heat input was controlled in both processes, keeping it below 2.0 kJ/mm in the GTAW and 1.2 kJ/mm in the GMAW. GTAW with constant current was used and the parameters achieved producing full penetration welds with SDSS and HDSS. In this case, Nitrogen was used as backing gas to avoid oxidation of the root. Thus, a special GMAW-Pulsed version was applied to achieve good wettability and defect-free joints. ASTM G48 tests were performed to evaluate the corrosion resistance through Critical Pitting Testing (CPT) analysis on the root pass, microstructural analysis via optical microscopy, and impact toughness. Consequently, a comprehensive examination of the welded joints outlines manufacturing conditions, limitations, and the applications of SDSS and HDSS filler metals.
Innovative Design of Advanced Niobium-Based Alloys for Extreme High-Temperature Applications
Authors: Liang Zhi , Jiang Menglei , Gong Jiadong , Olson Greg B.
Published: October 2024

The aspiration to deploy Nb-based alloys as viable upgrade for Ni-based superalloys is rooted in their potential for superior performance in high-temperature applications, such as rocket nozzles and next-generation turbines. However, realizing this goal requires overcoming formidable design hurdles, including achieving high specific strength, creep resistance, fatigue, and oxidation resistance at elevated temperatures, while preserving ductility at lower temperatures. Additionally, the requisite for alloy bond-coatings, to ensure compatibility with coating materials, further complicates the design process. QuesTek Innovations has its Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) technologies to design a superior performance high-temperature Nb-based superalloy based on solid solution and precipitation strengthening. Additionally, utilizing a statistical learning method from very limited available data, QuesTek engineers were able to establish physics-based material property models, enabling accurate predictions of equilibrium phase fraction, DBTT, and creep properties for multicomponent Nb alloys. With the proven Materials by Design methodology under the ICME framework, QuesTek successfully designed a novel Nb superalloy that met the stringent design requirements using its advanced ICMD materials modeling and design platform.
Weld Metal Additive Manufacturing for Grade 91
Authors: Melfi Teresa , Sridharan Niyanth , Schaeffer J. Ben , Zhang Zhuyao
Published: October 2024

This study investigates a novel approach to addressing the persistent Type IV cracking issue in Grade 91 steel weldments, which has remained problematic despite decades of service history and various mitigation attempts through chemical composition and procedural modifications. Rather than further attempting to prevent heat-affected zone (HAZ) softening, we propose eliminating the vulnerable base metal entirely by replacing critical sections with additively manufactured (AM) weld metal deposits using ASME SFA “B91” consumables. The approach employs weld metal designed for stress-relieved conditions rather than traditional normalizing and tempering treatments. Our findings demonstrate that the reheat cycles during AM buildup do not produce the substantial softening characteristic of Type IV zones, thereby reducing the risk of premature creep failure. The study presents comprehensive properties of the AM-built weld metal after post-weld heat treatment (PWHT), examines factors influencing deposit quality and performance, and explores the practical benefits for procurement and field construction, supported by in-service data and application cases.
Homogenization During Solution Heat Treatment of Ni-Base Single-Crystal Superalloy TMS-238
Authors: Ohno Naoki , Osada Toshio , Tabata Chihiro , Yokokawa Tadaharu , Ikeda Ayako , Kawagishi Kyoko , Suzuki Shinsuke
Published: October 2024

To maximize the mechanical properties of Ni-base superalloys, solution heat treatment is essential to sufficiently homogenize the dendritic segregations formed during solidification. To investigate the homogenization behavior during solution heat treatment, a Ni-base single crystal superalloy, TMS-238, was heat treated under various conditions; temperatures ranging from 1573 to 1613 K for times ranging from 2 to 100 h. After solution heat treatment, the average concentrations of Re, an element that exhibits the highest degree of segregation, in dendrite core and inter-dendritic regions were analyzed. From these results, apparent diffusion constants, Dapp, were determined based on a proposed homogenization model. Obtained Dapp values were significantly smaller than the diffusion constant of Re in Ni, strongly suggesting that the apparent diffusion coefficients should be obtained experimentally when using the target alloy.
Updated Evaluation of Creep Damage Tolerance in THOR 115 Parent Material and Weldments
Authors: Ortolani M. , Locatelli R. , Siefert J. , Bridges A.
Published: October 2024

Tenaris' High Oxidation Resistance (THOR) 115, or T115, is a creep strength-enhanced ferritic (CSEF) steel introduced in the past decade. It is widely used in constructing high-efficiency power plants and heat recovery steam generators (HRSGs) due to its superior steam oxidation resistance and long-term microstructural stability, making it a viable alternative to stainless steels at elevated steam temperatures. The creep damage tolerance of T115 has been recently validated under ASME BPVC CC 3048 guidelines, which address safety concerns related to creep damage in boiler components. Testing confirmed T115's consistent creep damage-tolerant behavior, with cross-weld creep behavior reassessed through extensive metallographic examination of specimens from a 1.5-inch thick pipe girth weld, providing insights into creep damage distribution and hardness, and its relative performance compared to Grade 91 CSEF steel.
Demonstration of Thick-Section Welding of Haynes 282 to Steel
Authors: Srinivasan Shankar , Bruck Gerald , Mohan Arun
Published: October 2024

This study addresses the welding challenges encountered when joining Haynes 282, a heat-resistant superalloy, to 3.5NiCrMoV high-strength low alloy steel (HSLA) for advanced power plant applications, particularly in thick-section components like rotors. The project demonstrated successful thick-section dissimilar metal welding up to 76 mm (3 in.) using two techniques: keyhole tungsten inert gas welding and conventional gas tungsten arc welding with Haynes 282 filler metal. Various groove weld geometries were evaluated, supported by computational weld modeling to predict and minimize weld distortion. The results validate these welding approaches for critical power plant components requiring both high-temperature performance and cost-effectiveness.
Industrial Application of Local Vacuum Electron Beam Welding for Nuclear Reactor Components
Authors: Pope Jacob , Blackmore Michael , Talamantes-Silva Jesus
Published: October 2024

Local vacuum electron beam welding is an advanced manufacturing technology which has been investigated at Sheffield Forgemasters to develop as part of a cost-effective, reliable, agile, and robust manufacturing route for the next generation of civil nuclear reactors in the UK. A dedicated electron beam welding facility at Sheffield Forgemasters has been installed. This includes an x-ray enclosure, 100kW diode electron gun, 100T turntable, and weld parameter development vacuum chamber. A small modular reactor demonstrator vessel has successfully been manufactured with a wall thickness of 180 mm, including indication-free slope-in, steady- state and slope-out welding parameters. Electroslag strip cladding has also been investigated to demonstrate its viability in reactor pressure vessel manufacture. The electro-slag strip cladding method has been shown to produce high quality 60 mm strips on a 2600 mm inner diameter ring.
Tensile Testing in High Pressure Gaseous Hydrogen Using the Tubular Specimen Method
Authors: Elsen-Humberg Stephan , Unterumsberger Fabian , Freitas Tomas , Oesterlin Heiner , Ruchti Peter
Published: October 2024

The efforts of the European Union and Germany in particular to realize the transformation towards a climate-neutral economy over the coming decades have the establishing of a hydrogen economy as a fundamental milestone. This includes production, import, storage, transportation and utilization of great amounts of gaseous hydrogen in existing and new infrastructure. Metallic materials, mainly steels, are the most widely used structural materials in the various components of this supply chain. Therefore, the accelerated use of hydrogen requires the qualification of materials (i.e., ensuring they are hydrogen-ready) to guarantee the sustainable and safe implementation of hydrogen technologies. However, there is currently no easily applicable and standardized method to efficiently determine the impact of gaseous hydrogen on metallic materials. The few existing standards describe procedures that are complex, expensive, and only available to a limited extent globally. This article outlines the key milestones towards standardizing an efficient testing method as part of the TransHyDE flagship project. This new approach enables testing of metallic materials in gaseous hydrogen using tubular specimens. It uses only a fraction of the hydrogen required by the traditional autoclave method, significantly reducing costs associated with technical safety measures. Among the topics to be discussed are the factors influencing the test procedure, including geometrical considerations, surface quality, gas purity and strain rate.
Microstructural and Mechanical Evolution of High Temperature Proton Irradiated FeCrMnNi Concentrated Solid-Solution Alloy
Authors: Wang Qiang , Dai Cong , Skippon Travis , Fluke Amy , Yuan Hui , Long Fei , Daymond Mark R.
Published: October 2024

A FeCrMnNi concentrated solid-solution alloy was irradiated with a 2 MeV proton beam up to 1 dpa and 6 dpa at temperatures of 400 °C and 600 °C. The microstructural changes induced by irradiation were characterized using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). In samples irradiated at 400 °C, Frank loops were the predominant form of lattice damage at 1 dpa, whereas small defect clusters were more prevalent at 6 dpa. For the sample irradiated to 1 dpa at 600 °C, both Frank loops and small defect clusters were present in similar density. Nanoindentation was employed to assess the changes in mechanical properties (hardness) post-irradiation, revealing significant hardening in all irradiated samples. The results indicated that the hardening effect began to saturate at 1 dpa or earlier. Additionally, nanoindentation creep tests with a 1200-second dwell period produced stress exponents comparable to those obtained from conventional creep testing. The findings suggest a shift in the deformation mechanism from dislocation glide to dislocation climb in the sample irradiated to 6 dpa at 400 °C.
The Effect of Post Weld Heat Treatment on the Microstructure and Creep Damage Susceptibility in Grade 92 Steel
Authors: West G. D. , Moore T. , Strangwood M. , Siefert J. A.
Published: October 2024

Creep strength enhanced ferritic (CSEF) steels have shown the potential for creep failure in the weld metal, heat affected zone (HAZ) or fusion line. Details for this behavior have been frequently linked to metallurgical risk factors present in each of these locations which may drive the evolution of damage and subsequent failure. This work is focused on three weld samples fabricated from a commercially sourced Grade 92 steel pipe section. These weld samples were extracted from the same welded section but were reported to exhibit failure in different time frames and failure locations (i.e., HAZ of parent, fusion-line, and weld metal). The only variables that contribute to this observed behavior are the post weld heat treatment (PWHT) cycle and the applied stress (all tests performed at 650 °C). In this work detailed microstructural analysis was undertaken to precisely define the locations of creep damage accumulation and relate them to microstructural features. As part of this an automated inclusion mapping process was developed to quantify the characteristics of the BN particles and other inclusions in the parent material of the samples. It was found that BN particles were only found in the sample that had been subjected to the subcritical PWHT, not those that had received a re-normalizing heat treatment. Such micron sized inclusions are a known potential nucleation site for creep cavities, and this is consistent with the observed failure location in the HAZ of the parent in the sample where these were present. In the absence of BN inclusions, the next most susceptible region to creep cavitation is the weld metal. This has an intrinsically high density of sub-micron sized spherical weld inclusions and this is where most of the creep damage was located, in all the renormalized samples.
Effect of Grain-Boundary TCP P(oP56) Phase on Creep in Ni-Cr-Mo Alloys at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Yanagiya Takehiko , Yoshida Masato , Hashi Kunihiko , Nagashima Ryota , Takeyama Masao
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the role of grain-boundary precipitates in enhancing creep rupture strength of Ni-based alloys through analysis of Ni-15Cr-15Mo and Ni-15Cr-17Mo (at.%) model alloys. The investigation focused on the “Grain-boundary Precipitation Strengthening (GBPS)” effect from the thermally stable TCP phase, a phenomenon previously observed in Fe-Cr-Ni-Nb austenitic heat-resistant steels. Through multi-step heat treatments, specimens were prepared with varying grain boundary coverage ratios (ρ) of TCP P phase (oP56) and consistent grain-interior hardness from GCP Ni2(Cr, Mo) phase (oP6). In the 15 at.% Mo alloy, specimens with a higher coverage ratio (~80%) demonstrated significantly improved creep performance, achieving nearly four times longer rupture time (3793 h vs. 1090 h) at 300 MPa and 973 K compared to specimens with lower coverage (~35%). However, the 17 at.% Mo alloy showed unexpectedly lower performance despite high coverage ratios, attributed to preferential cavity formation at bare grain boundaries. These findings confirm that GBPS via thermally stable TCP phase effectively enhances creep properties in Ni-based alloys, with grain boundary coverage ratio being more crucial than intragranular precipitation density.
Creep Deformation and Rupture Properties of Long-Term Used Super 304H Steel Boiler Tubes
Authors: Zhang Shengde , Tokunaga Hayato , Kako Kenji , Yaguchi Masatsugu , Tamura Koji , Minami Yusuke
Published: October 2024

Creep deformation and rupture properties of several long-term used Super 304H steel boiler tubes were presented in this paper. The aged superheater tubes that have been in service for about 140,000 hours at the approximate metal temperature ranged from 550°C to 640°C, were investigated. Creep tests were conducted at 650°C and 700°C using standard and miniature specimens taken from the axial and circumferential directions of tubes, and effects of specimen size, sampling direction and position on creep properties were discussed. Creep deformation of long-term used materials with significant microstructural evolution accelerated earlier than that of virgin material, and the time to creep rupture and the fracture ductility were also smaller. The degradation of rupture properties of the long-term used material was discussed in relation with microstructural evolution. In addition, there was little effects of specimen size and sampling direction on creep deformation and rupture time, whereas the time to creep rupture changed significantly due to the sampling position.
An Engineering Approach for Weld Creep Lifetime Assessment Based on Local Property Measurement
Authors: Zhanga Wei , Wanga Yiyu , Wanga Yanli , Fenga Zhili , Siefertb John , Bridgesb Alex , Kungb Steven
Published: October 2024

The localized creep failure in the heat-affected zone (HAZ) of Grade 91 steel weldments has been identified as one of the most important factors causing significantly shortened service lifetime and structural integrity issues of welded components in advanced fossil and nuclear power plants. To conduct a reliable creep lifetime assessment, a new engineering assessment approach has been developed by incorporating the experimentally determined local properties of the heterogeneous HAZ. By creep testing a purposely simulated HAZ specimen with in situ digital image correlation (DIC) technique, the highly gradient creep properties across the HAZ of Grade 91 steel was quantitatively measured. A physical creep cavitation constitutive model was proposed to investigate the local creep deformation and damage accumulation within the heterogeneous HAZ, which takes into account the nucleation of creep cavities and their growth by both grain boundary diffusion and creep deformation. The relationship among the local material property, creep strain accumulation, and evolution characteristic of creep cavities was established. The approach was then utilized to investigate the creep response and subsequent life for an ex-service 9% Cr steel weldment by incorporating the effects of pre-existing damages which developed and accumulated during long-term services. The predicted results exhibited quantitative agreement with the DIC measurement in terms of both nominal/local creep deformation as well as the subsequent life under the test conditions at 650 and 80 MPa.
BIO-ELEMENT STATUS OF THE FAIR OF DOGS RECEIVING FOOD WITH DIFFERENT SOURCES OF ANIMAL PROTEIN
Authors: Efanova N. V. , Osina L. M. , Batalova S. V. , Vdovina G. V.
Published: October 2024

We studied the features of the macro- and microelement composition of dog fur depending on different types of feeding and the use of dry industrial food with different protein sources. The studies were carried out on three groups of 2–5 year old dogs. The animals were kept in apartment conditions in Novosibirsk with double active exercise. The 1st group included 14, and the 2nd and 3rd groups – 16 dogs each. The first group received dry food with fish, the 2nd group - dry food with chicken, and the third - beef meat with offal, cereals, vegetables, cottage cheese and vegetable oils. The bioelemental composition of wool was studied on an Elan 9000 quadrupole mass spectrometer and an Optima 2000DV atomic emission spectrometer using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry. The most significant changes in the elemental status of fur were found in dogs fed dry food with fish. In this group of animals, the levels of mercury and phosphorus exceeded the reference values, and the quantitative values of cobalt, chromium, iron, iodine and manganese, on the contrary, were below the normal limit. The content of bioelements in the fur of dogs fed dry food with chicken or “natural” food in their diet was within the reference values. Distinctive features of dogs with a “natural” type of feeding were lower values of As, Ca, Hg, K and P in the wool compared to animals receiving dry food. The highest values of Al, B, Co, Fe, I, Li, Mn and lower concentrations of Na, Si and Sn were recorded in the fur of dogs eating dry food with chicken.
PECULIARITIES OF REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS IN CAPTIVITY
Authors: Matvienko A. V. , Tyan E. A.
Published: October 2024

In recent decades, there has been an increasing interest in exotic animals, not only by scientists and industrialists, but also by people wishing to have a pet. However, many of them do not know that keeping spiders, amphibians and reptiles in captivity is not an easy task due to the strict requirements for the conditions of keeping such animals, in particular, the temperature and humidity regime and illumination. Non-compliance with the necessary parameters can lead to delayed molt, various diseases and even death. To create favorable conditions that meet the physiological needs of exotic animals, it is necessary to use special equipment. In this connection the existing equipment is analyzed and recommendations are given on its use and creation of required parameters of microclimate for keeping the most common exotic pets, some metabolic disorders and diseases arising from violation of conditions of their keeping are described. In accordance with the Federal Law “On Responsible Treatment of Animals and Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation”, treatment of animals should be based on the following moral principles and principles of humanity: 1) treatment of animals as creatures capable of experiencing emotions and physical suffering; 2) human responsibility for the fate of the animal; 3) education of the public in a moral and humane attitude towards animals; 4) scientifically grounded combination of moral, economic and social interests of an individual, society and the state.
WAYS TO IMPROVE THE EFFICIENCY AND COMPETITIVENESS OF THE ENTERPRISE
Authors: Bekish E. I. , Mantur E. E.
Published: October 2024

A complex, constantly changing political and economic situation requires a search for areas of effective work of companies and the competitiveness of their products in the markets. The assessment and analysis of the efficiency of the enterprise was carried out, the directions for its improvement and development of competitiveness were determined. The basis for the research was the final indicators of the functioning of JSC “Vitebsk Plant of Tractor Spare Parts” in 2019 - 2021. It has been established that the provision of technical services increases the competitiveness of the plant in the markets of spare parts for agricultural and forestry tractors. To increase the competitiveness of manufactured products, the plant increases their range and improves quality. To date, the VZTZ product range includes about 300 varieties of tractor parts and assemblies. Assimilating investments, the latest modern world technologies are being introduced here to meet international quality standards. In the production of products, the company introduced a modern coordinate measuring machine Contura, which allows for high-precision measurements and a modern method of quality control, reducing the risks of supplying low-quality products and returning them. In order to increase the growth of exports of their products, specialists are working to consolidate and expand the existing markets for agricultural machinery and are actively looking for new markets. Currently, exports are carried out to 19 countries of the world, including the countries of the African continent. At the same time, most of the export products are sold to Russia. Further export growth will be achieved by the development of new markets and the development of new logistics channels to the countries of the far arc.
Molecular Characterization of Hospital and Livestock Associated Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
Authors: Khanim Nida , Hanif Shagufta Muhammad , Siddiqua Amina , Tanveer Kashf , Bashir Fakhra
Published: October 2024

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA is a major public health concern because of its resistance to antibiotics, and its pathogenicity to human beings as well as animals. The aim of this study is to determine the frequency and the molecular characteristics of MRSA in hospital, community, and livestock settings. Specimens were obtained from a variety of settings such as patients, healthcare personnel, livestock, and the environment. In order to demonstrate the strains, the molecular typing techniques were used. The studies show that in hospital settings there are still high rates of MRSA infection including certain types such as ST 239 while outside the health facility, CA-MRSA is on the rise with frequent strain being the USA300. Farm animals were found to be carriers of livestock-associated MRSA especially the CC398 strain, showing the zoonotic risk of MRSA.