bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Abrasive Effecting Factors of the Removal Rate during Dual-Lapping Sapphire Wafer
Authors: Zhang Ke Hua , Wen Dong Hui , Yuan Ju Long
Published: August 2015

Dual-lapping was a process to planarize the surface of the sapphire wafer, the nature of surface&subsurface damage and the surface uniformity was depended on the material removal mode and materials removal ratio. Material removal mode was studied in this paper, and the model of material removal was set up too. The SEM was used to scan the processed sapphire surface and the different removal style (two body and three body) were discovered. This research provided valuable insights into the material removal ratio and the dependence of lapping-induced damage on dual-lapping conditions, the asymmetry of abrasive granularity brought on the different materials removal mode and the surface asymmetry. The model was set up to qualitative analysis the material removal ratio in dual-lapping of sapphire, obtain the reasonable MMR and optimize the surface quality and the planarization result.
Research of the Dynamic Abrasive Particles Field
Authors: Ji Shi Ming , Shen Ya Qi , Zhang Li , Jin Ming Sheng , Zhang Yin Dong
Published: August 2015

In this paper, a critical study into the dynamic form of abrasive particles through polishing are made, which are under “inconsistent curvature contact” status. In this system, some abrasive particles are colored up and mixed with ordinary ones, by utilizing transparent working surface and stroboscopic light as well; motion state of abrasive particles can be photographed by high speed shot technology. This method can get serials of images while polishing. By using digital image processing technology, distribution of abrasive particle field can be obtained finally. In this paper, the abrasive particles field is researched to obtain the perfect abrasive particle field after purposefully control. Then the influence of the removed material caused by abrasive particles field can be improved, so it can provide strong theory foundation and practice guidance to surface polishing practice.
An Experimental Study on Composites Machining Using Abrasive Water Jet Technology
Authors: Cen Hai Tang , Chi Lu Xing , Li Hui
Published: August 2015

Composite when machined with conventional technique often results in fibre damage, interlaminate failure, poor hole quality and high tool wear rate. The flexibility and cool cutting characteristics of the AWJ make it an important tool for cutting applications of new materials such as composites. It has been shown that using AWJ cutting with optimal parameters for Bakelite, interlayer GFRP and normal GFRP can be a viable and effective alternative with good kerf quality and few problems such as thermal effects, delamination and burr. The empirical models of the levert of GFRP has revealed that AWJ technology has a great of advantages on machining complicate shaped and interstitium workpieces
Predictive Tool Life Model of CBN in Ti6Al4V High Speed Turning and Cutting Parameter Optimization
Authors: Wang Xiao Qin , Ai Xing , Zhao Jun , Guo Pei Quan
Published: August 2015

Ti6Al4V is a difficult to machine alloy with low cutting efficiency and server tool wear. A series of orthogonal turning tests with CBN (Cubic Boron Nitride) in higher speed scale was carried out on a CA6140 lathe. The experiential functions of tool life based on orthogonal experiment were developed. The tool wear morphologies were examined by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy disperse spectroscopy (EDS), adhesion, diffusion and micro-chipping were the major wear mechanisms of CBN tool. Finally, the cutting parameters of CBN tool in Ti6Al4V dry turning were optimized based on tool life-efficiency contour analysis, in same cutting efficiency, the higher cutting speed and small depth of cut are the better selection, it means that utilization of CBN tool enables the high cutting speed turning of Ti6Al4V.
Design of Angle Adjustable Electrochemical Micro-Machining System
Authors: Huang Shao Fu , Zhu Di , Zeng Yong Bin , Liu Yong , Wang Wei
Published: August 2015

In order to remove the reaction products generated from the interelectrode gap of the electrochemical micro-machining, an angle adjustable electrochemical micro-machining equipment has been developed, which consists of angle adjustment unit, feed system unit, etc. Small holes have been drilled on thin stainless steel 304 by using our developed equipment. The experimental results show that the adjusted cathode working angle and high speed of cathode rotation improves micro-ECM performance characteristics.
Influence of On-the-Machine Laser Hardening on Machinability of Carbon Steel in Turning
Authors: Kusano Takahiko , Tanaka Ryutaro , Hosokawa Akira , Ueda Takashi , Furumoto Tatsuaki , Lin Yong Chuan
Published: August 2015

This study deals with the influence of laser hardening for a carbon steel AISI 1045 on machinability in turning. Turning test was conducted for the purpose to clarify the influence of laser hardening for steel surface on the chip controllability and surface roughness. In turning laser hardened steel, continuous chip is broken in the laser hardened zone during cutting due to higher brittleness. The broken chips have spiral form and their length is approximately equal to those generated by less than 10 revolution cutting. The surface roughness shows slightly lower compared with non-laser hardened steel.
Experimental Characteristics of Aluminum Alloys in Dry End Milling
Authors: Mizugaki Yoshio , Takafuji Kazuki , Kikkawa Koichi
Published: August 2015

This paper describes the cutting characteristics of aluminum alloys in dry end milling experimentally. The tested materials are A1050, A2017, A2024, A5025 and A7075. The cutter is a flat end mill of Co-cemented High Speed Steel with the diameter of 20 mm. Through the experimental results of side milling, the following three aspects have been found out. Firstly, as to the machining error, A1050 showed smaller machining error than 15 μm in the cutting speed rage from 62.8 m/min to 251.3 m/min. Other Aluminum alloys showed greater values. Secondly, as to the cutting force, those of aluminum alloys except A2017 were generally proportional to their material hardness. The cutting forces of A1050 and A5052 were constant over the whole range of cutting speed. Thirdly, as to the machined surface roughness, A7075 showed the smallest surface roughness among the all materials with its arithmetical mean roughness Ra under 0. 2 µm and with its maximum height of profile Rz under 1 μm. The machined surface roughness of A2017 varied widely. Through the visual inspection of machined surface, A2017 and A2024 showed picked surface as generated by a built-up edge. This document explains and demonstrates how to prepare your camera-ready manuscript for Trans Tech Publications. The best is to read these instructions and follow the outline of this text. The text area for your manuscript must be 17 cm wide and 25 cm high (6.7 and 9.8 inches, resp.). Do not place any text outside this area. Use good quality, white paper of approximately 21 x 29 cm or 8 x 11 inches (please do not change the document setting from A4 to letter). Your manuscript will be reduced by approximately 20% by the publisher. Please keep this in mind when designing your figures and tables etc.
Assessment of Electricity Generation on Different Inorganic and Metallic Embedded in Solar Photovoltaic Panels: Cases of Thailand
Authors: Peerapong Prachuab , Limmeechokchai Bundit
Published: August 2015

Photovoltaic (PV) has recently undergone impressive growth and substantial cost decreases. Basically wafer-based crystalline-Si PV technologies have the advantage of higher module efficiency as compared to thin-film PV, but thin-film PV has the advantage of lower production cost. The silicon-based solar PV needs light-induced charge separation at the p-n junction between two slices (wafers) of doped silicon in either single-crystal silicon (sc-Si) or polycrystalline (poly-Si). However until recently thin-film PV modules both amorphous silicon (a-Si) and non-silicon thin film technology have been advantageous developed. Metallic based modules such as cadmium telluride, CdTe and copper indium gallium diselenide, CIGS thin-film PV technologies have currently efficiencies of 16.1% and 15.7%, respectively. A high efficiency makes thin-film PV technologies more competitive with wafer-based crystalline-Si PV. This study investigates the electricity generation of both silicon based and non-silicon based solar PV modules. The implementation uses solar irradiation with average of higher than 18 MJ/m2.day in high solar radiation provinces in Thailand. A High solar radiation is observed in mostly in central and the east regions of the country. The result shows that the commercial amorphous PV module is appropriate for large scale installation while wafer-based crystalline-Si PV can be installed both in cases of solar rooftop and solar PV farm. Thin-film PV modules both silicon based (a-Si) and non-silicon based is basically appropriate for small installation such as solar rooftop and building integrated PV (BIPV). But in the near future the metallic based PV modules will be competitive with crystalline-Si PV in terms of both efficiency and with its lower cost.
Effect of Type and Coating Time of Interlayer on Properties and Morphology of Cr-Zr-N Film Prepared by DC Magnetron Sputtering PVD on H13 Steel
Authors: Taweesup Katreeya , Lertsakwanit Ratchawadee , Jirawanichkul Jessada , Yongvanich Niti , Lothongkum Gobboon , Visuttipitukul Patama
Published: August 2015

Adhesion, hardness and surface morphology are important properties of thin film coated by PVD. Interlayer lying between substrate and coating layer plays an important role on these properties. In this research, type and thickness of interlayer for Cr-Zr-N film are varied to investigate their effect on properties of film. Cr, Zr and mixed Cr+Zr interlayer were selected for this research. Thickness of interlayer was varied by varying coating time from 5 to 45 min. The effect of interlayer on formation of Cr-Zr-N film was analyzed by XRD. Surface morphology was observed by OM, SEM and AFM. Hardness and adhesion were measure by nanoindentation tester and scatch tester. This research found that for surface morphology and hardness, Cr+Zr is the most appropriate interlayer while Zr interlayer provides the best adhesion properties.
A Study on Spirituous Liquor Efficiency Using Direct Alcohol Fuel Cell
Authors: Wongyao Nutthapon , Therdthianwong Apichai , Therdthianwong Supaporn
Published: August 2015

The electro-oxidation of 40 degree of alcohol as a local-commercial of spirituous liquor in Thailand compared with pure ethanol solution on the metal catalyst of PtSn/C was carried out. With using the 5 cm2 anode electrode of PtSn/C catalyst, the direct alcohol fuel cell was employed and then fed with 1 M of spirituous liquor at flow rate of 1 ml/min under operating condition of atmospheric pressure. The results from an output electrical power of 40 degree liquor fed into direct alcohol fuel cell (celled 40DFC) indicated that, at the initial time, the spirituous liquor provided the higher power density of 6 mW/cm2 compared with ethanol solution (celled DEFC) at the same concentration. For the cell open circuit voltage (OCV) using the spirituous liquor as fuel, it was 0.63 V which slightly lower than ethanol solution one. Nevertheless, 15 minutes left after applying the liquor, the cell performance was dramatic dropped due to the poisoned species of sulfur contained in liquor. The anode catalyst performance loss was also proved by using hydrogen gas for rechecking of the permanent degradation of fuel cell caused by feeding liquor onto the PtSn catalyst surface.
Mechanical Properties Improvement of Semi-Solid State Joining of Aluminum Alloys SSM A356
Authors: Geaowdee Atsadawoot , Muangjunburee Prapas
Published: August 2015

The aim of this research was to study semi-solid state joining of SSM A356 aluminum alloys which welded at its semi-solid state temperature by using oxygen – acetylene heat source. Then a stirrer was used to stir the weld seam. The joining parameters were rotation speed 1,110 with welding speed 120 mm/min and rotation speed 1,320 rpm with welding speed 160 mm/min. The joining temperatures were 575-590 and 590-610 oC. Joining was performed under nitrogen shielding gas and under argon shielding gas. Physical appearance, macrostructure, microstructure and mechanical properties were analyzed. The results indicated that the weld’s microstructure consisted of globular structure. In addition, porosities were found at the top of weld. However, minimum porosities were obtained from joints under argon shielding gas. The highest tensile strength was achieved from rotation speed at 1,110 rpm with welding speed at 120 mm/min under argon shielding gas with the value of 173 MPa. The joint efficiency was 86 % compared to the base metal.
The Influence of Current Density for Zinc Electrodeposition on Color Appearance of Black Trivalent Chromate Conversion Coatings
Authors: Pintuperakovit Nirada , Mohammed Waleed , Visuttipitukul Patama , Sukkasi Sittha , Boonyongmaneerat Yuttanant
Published: August 2015

Chromate conversion coating is an important surface finishing process for electroplated zinc coatings that are widely employed in automotive applications. In addition to providing enhanced corrosion protection, the conversion coating offers a shade of colors to the coated products, both for aesthetic and functional benefits. Due to the stringent requirements on environmental issues, the industry is replacing the conventional hexavalent chromate with a more environmentally friendly trivalent chromate for the production of coatings. This effectively poses the requirement of the fundamental understanding on how the keys processing parameters of trivalent chromate conversion coating may relate to coloring of the coating products.In this work, for the first time, a systematic study is carried out to correlate the electroplating parameters, including the current density and electrolyte’s additives, on the formation of the trivalent chromate conversion coating, and hence the color appearance of the top-coats. Focusing on the black conversion coating, the color and optical properties are analyzed using a colorimeter and an optical spectrometer. The results notably show that, while the additives highly influence the observable shade of blackness, current density affects the optical properties in the visual spectrums. The microstructural and chemical characterization techniques, namely FE-SEM, OM, and XRD, are used to shed some light on the underlying mechanism that controls the color appearance. The understanding developed in this study will impact the design and fabrication of the electrogalvanizing products of desired color and esteemed functional performance.
Direct Observation of Liquation in Ni-Base Superalloy by Using Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy
Authors: Phuraya Noppakorn , Phung-On Isaratat , Terasaki Hidenori , Komizo Yuichi
Published: August 2015

In-Situ direct observation was used to observe the liquation in an Inconel 617. High-Temperature Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (HT-CLSM) was used to observe the phenomena. Experiment was perform at 1330 °C with heating rate 5 °C/s. Results showed that the liquidation started at 1319.2 °C (268.08 seconds) in which liquid formed around precipitate. At 1330.5 °C (272.05 seconds) the liquid film wet and penetrated along grain boundaries. Then after 277.05 seconds, sufficient liquid film formed and moved freely on the surface of the specimen across grain boundaries. After cooling to room temperature, the test specimen was analyzed for local chemical composition gradient of precipitates and liquid film. Precipitate morphology changed from polygonal shape to round shape using SEM and EPMA. The results from this observation could be used to explain liquation mechanism occurred in Inconel 617 during heating.
Atmospheric Corrosion Behavior Assessment of Carbon Steel Pipes Using Cyclic Salt Spray Test
Authors: Chatisathien Polporn , Suttitam Nuttapon
Published: August 2015

Accelerated atmospheric corrosion behavior of carbon steel pipes subjected to cyclic salt spray test was performed according to ISO 14993 – Corrosion of metals and alloys – Accelerated testing involving cyclic exposure to salt mist, “dry” and “wet” conditions [1]. In order to investigate the effect of degree of exposure to environment of inner surface of the pipe on corrosion behavior of inner surface of the specimens, degree of completeness of weldment, 0%, 50%, 80%, and 100%, of steel cover plate is varied. Exposure times in this study are 168, 336, and 504 hours which can be correlated to 10, 20, and 30 years exposed to C3 corrosivity category according to the definition of ISO 9223 – Corrosion of metals and alloys – Corrosivity of atmospheres – Classification, determination and estimation [2,3]. After testing, visual inspection on outer and inner surfaces of the specimens were performed. In addition, average corrosion rate of the specimens were performed according to ISO 8407 – Corrosion of metals and alloys – Removal of corrosion products from corrosion test specimens [4]. The results show that as-received steel pipe specimens exhibited great degree of corrosion attack on the inner surface of the specimens while slight amount of corrosion was observed from the welded pipe specimens.
Improvement of Slurry Aluminide Coating on Ferritic Stainless Steel AISI430 for High-Temperature Oxidation Resistance
Authors: Promdirek Piyorose , Boonpensin Mack , Rojasawasatien Thanapon
Published: August 2015

One of the surface modification processes for high-temperature oxidation resistance is slurry aluminizing process, forming protective layer of alumina (Al2O3). However, several important parameters such as annealing times and temperatures should be intensively considered. The objective of this study is to improve the process of slurry aluminide coating of ferritic stainless steels type AISI430 (16%Cr) combat to high-temperature oxidation. The specimens were cut, then ground, and finally sprayed with slurry mixture (Al powder + polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)). They were annealed in Ar at 1100°C for 15 minutes in order to eliminate PVA and form aluminide on their suface. The protective layer Al2O3 was finally formed in the temperature range of 900-1100 °C for 15-60 minutes. The cyclic oxidation tests were performed at 1000 °C for 24 hours. The surface morphology were then examined by XRD, SEM equipped EDS. The results showed that all oxidation kinetics of coated specimens were parabolic. The oxidation rate of uncoated specimens was apparently higher than that of coated specimens. Comparing with all coated specimens, the oxidation rate decreased with the increasing temperature and annealing time. In this study, the coating process at 1100°C for 60 minutes exhibited the lowest oxidation rate due to the most complete layer of Al2O3. The surface morphology showed the formation of continuous layer of Fe2Al5 and Al2O3, acting as barrier layer to oxide growth. Effect of temperature and time on oxidation resistance were discussed in this study.
A Method for Optical Liquid Flow Analysis
Authors: Lutowski Zbigniew , Marciniak Tomasz , Bujnowski Sławomir , Marciniak Beata
Published: August 2015

This paper presents a modification of the optical marker method for fluid particle trajectories analysis. Known optical visualization methods involving the addition of uniform indicator particles, require special methods of illuminating a single section of the liquid. Other of the disadvantages of this method is also the need to record suitably quick sequence of images, as well as problems in obtaining information about the three-dimensional motion of particles. The proposed modification involves the use of a set of markers, each of which is uniquely identified. The paper presents the results of laboratory tests carried out using the suggested markers.
Truck Driving Parameters - A Comparative Study
Authors: Kozioł Stanisław
Published: August 2015

Rescue and fire-fighting vehicles and other vehicles used by the fire department, such as tankers and aerial ladder trucks have typically a high centre of gravity. Driving such vehicles involves the danger of transverse stability loss and rolling over. This problem is augmented by inadequate driver experience due to the low mileage of emergency vehicles. The safety of a moving vehicle largely depends on its driving characteristics, which can be studied and compared, and these in turn can be the basis for the evaluation of the vehicle safety with a specific body design.The aim of the study was to develop a set of measuring devices for identifying driving properties for trucks. A dynamics study was conducted using constructed prototype solutions for selected trucks with a high centre of gravity, including emergency vehicles for fire departments. The study was performed during selected standard road tests for determining driveability properties. Three road tests were used to assess the road stability and manoeuvrability of the vehicles: driving in a circle in predetermined conditions, steering wheel jump while driving straight ahead, and braking while driving in a circle. The results of this study allow determining the characteristic values of parameters describing vehicle behaviour in each test and a comparative assessment of their safety in traffic. Moreover, the study constituted a verification of the developed system that can be used for dynamics tests and the evaluation of vehicle safety.
Hydropneumatic Suspension Efficiency in Terms of Teleoperated UGV Research
Authors: Bartnicki Adam , Muszyński Tomasz , Rubiec Arkadiusz
Published: August 2015

More often Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV) support or replace human in dangerous tasks performing. Usually this operations are realizing in hard conditions in rough terrain. UGVs effectively use determines its ability to obstacle negotiating, to reach high adhesion force, drawbar pull and extra longitudinal and lateral stability of UGV. Variety missions determining of use in UGVs reconfigurable and control suspension system. It is able to meet this requirement thanks to use hydropneumatic components in them suspension system. However currently it is very hard to developed characteristic of such a suspension systems. In literature there is no clear guidelines for suspension systems of teleoperated UGVs. This paper presents results of hydropneumatic suspension system research on heavy UGV.
Universal Research Instrumentation for Erosion Tests
Authors: Mazurkiewicz Adam , Smolik Jerzy , Mizak Wojciech , Mężyk Jordan , Paćko Daniel
Published: August 2015

The research on erosion resistance can be classified into two groups, i.e. standardized research, conducted with specific parameters of the test and dedicated to commercially available products, and experimental studies whose the aim is to investigate different mechanisms of erosion (e.g. micro-cutting, the formation of grooves, fatigue wear, and cracking and chipping of brittle materials) with different parameters of the process, i.e. the angle of impact of the particles, the speed and particle size, the particle temperature, and the temperature of the eroded material. Devices available on the market allow the implementation of erosion tests in accordance with the requirements of the standards. Experimental studies are carried out exclusively on laboratory equipment with incomparable characteristics.
The Institute for Sustainable Technologies - National Research Institute in Radom designed and produced a universal testing device enabling investigations both in accordance with the requirements of the applicable standards: ASTM-G76, PN-76/C-81516, PN-EN ISO 16282, as well as experimental research. The device enables the execution of experiments in a wide range of parameters relevant to the processes of erosion, i.e. temperature (≤ 600 °C), the angle of the sample relative to the abrasive particles (25o to 90o), the speed of abrasive particles (10 to 130 m/s) and abrasive particles flow (2 to 10 g / min).
In the paper, the authors described the construction of the device and the reported ranges of the erosive wear test parameters and presented examples of the results of tests for selected solid materials and selected coatings produced by PVD methods.
High-Energy Impact Certification of Aero Structures: Experiments and Numerical Simulations
Authors: Socha Grzegorz , Szałkowski Sebastian , Zbrowski Andrzej
Published: August 2015

The article presents the test results obtained from the “Research methods and systems for the investigation on impact resistance of elements of aero structures and land vehicles aimed at the assessment of passenger safety” R&D project that was jointly executed by the Institute of Aviation, the Institute for Sustainable Technologies – National Research Institute, and the PZL Mielec. The main objective of the project was to perform impact tests of the windscreen and the vertical stabilizer of the PZL M28 Skytruck. The experimental tests were conducted for real objects in full scale. The investigations were carried out using an original 250 mm pneumatic gun. Apart from the impact tests, the project was also focused on numerical simulations of impacts employing the Finite Element Method (test object modelling) and the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics methods (the model of the gelatine projectile). The authors compare the results of experimental tests and numerical simulations. They present the differences in the results obtained and analyse the reasons behind these discrepancies, and based on the analysis, they conclude that the main cause for them is the simplified mathematical model describing the behaviour of the material subjected to dynamic loads, which was used in numerical simulations.
Regeneration Method of Aqueous, Technological Liquids Using a Dedicated Microfiltration System
Authors: Łobodzin Paulina , Piątkiewicz Wojciech , Grądkowski Marian
Published: August 2015

Aqueous technological liquids are widely used in industrial processes. However, due to limited resources, there is an increasing pressure on their protection and reduction of water consumption by, for example, closing water circulation. It is facilitated by the development of membrane technology. The article describes a method for regenerating aqueous technological liquids used in metal surface treatment processes and cleaning a production plant. This process was conducted inbatchsystem using a mobile microfiltration installation. The working unit was equipped with tubular ceramic membranes having a nominal pore diameter of 0.2 μm, working in across-flowregime. The main advantage of the apparatus is its low weight and high mobility. The installation and method of regeneration were verified during the processing of a model alkaline liquid used for cleaning a plant in the dairy industry. It was found that microfiltration can be used to remove technological impurities (coagulated proteins and fats) from the liquid. The physicochemical properties of the liquid, including alkalinity, remained stable after repeated filtration. This indicates that the purified liquid can circulate in the system and be used in accordance with its original purpose. The proposed solution enables the reduction of water consumption and chemicals used for the preparation of these liquids.
A Method for the Production of Glycol Recyclates by Physicochemical Processing of Antifreeze Waste Fluids
Authors: Molenda Jarosław
Published: August 2015

Antifreeze glycol-based fluids are widely used in various types of industrial systems, equipped with indirect heat exchange systems. A very broad area of the application of glycol fluids is possible due to their primary physicochemical properties, i.e. relatively high boiling point, very low freezing point, and negligible thermal expansion [1,2]. Examples of the application of these fluids may be, e.g. cooling systems and air conditioning, in which glycol fluid is the heat transferring agent [3 – 5].
Lubricating Effectiveness of Secondary Metabolites from Microalgae in Different Material Systems
Authors: Dziosa Karolina , Makowska Monika , Grądkowski Marian
Published: August 2015

Microalgae, as a renewable raw material, are gaining wider technical use, due to their rapid growth and high lipid content. Thanks to their ability to produce secondary metabolites that are chemically related to vegetable oils, they can provide an alternative source of organic components of operational liquids. The study investigated the properties of the lubricating oil obtained from algae and compared them with the properties of selected commercial lubricating oils: vegetable, mineral, and synthetic. Antiwear properties were evaluated based on the value of the limiting load of wear (Goz), and antiseizure properties are based on the value of scuffing load (Pt). The studies were conducted with the use of a four-ball machine. Its test elements were 100Cr6 steel balls and the same balls with low-friction coating (WC/C). Friction tests were carried out in the following material combinations: steel-steel, steel-WC/C, WC/C-steel, and WC/C-WC/C. It was found that in the WC/C-WC/C and WC/C-steel material systems, the algae oil has better antiwear and antiseizure properties than the mineral and vegetable oil. It is therefore appropriate to consider the algae oil as a substitute for commercial oils, particularly the vegetable one for technical applications, e.g. when composing organic lubricating materials intended for the lubrication of friction systems with WC/C coatings.
Phosphorus Removal in Anaerobic Fluidized Bed Reactor with Active Microporous Filling Produced by Extrusion Technology
Authors: Krzemieniewski Mirosław , Zieliński Marcin , Dębowski Marcin , Tor-Świątek Aneta , Makowska Monika , Grądkowski Marian
Published: August 2015

Methane fermentation leads to the formation of biogas in the process of wastewater treatment, but a limitation to its use is the low effectiveness of the removal of phosphorous compounds under anaerobic conditions. The study demonstrates a method to solve this problem through the use of a magneto-active microporous filling, produced by extrusion technology from polyvinyl chloride. This has increased the effectiveness of dairy wastewater treatment by stimulating the selective development of specific groups of microorganisms and the chemical binding of the phosphorous compounds in biological processes as well as chemical sorption on the metal surface of the filling. Regardless of the used organic loading rate, the efficiency of phosphorous removal from the wastewaters was about 85%. Achieving low concentrations of phosphorous in the effluent was directly influenced by the method of the wastewater operation and disposal by magneto-active filling layer.
Composite ZrO2-Based Cermet Material Modified with Mo
Authors: Wrona Adriana , Czechowska Kinga , Osadnik Małgorzata , Kamińska Małgorzata , Lis Marcin , Bilewska Katarzyna , Czepelak Marian , Więcław Grzegorz , Moskal Grzegorz
Published: August 2015

The work presents studies of a new ceramic-metallic material. The base is a ZrO2-Mo cermet which is modified with metallic Mo or Mo85Re15 alloy coating. The structure and microstructure of Mo85Re15 alloy powders and the composite were characterized. The annealing procedure was found to influence phase composition of powder composites but not their morphology. The plasma sprayed powders, both metallic and alloyed, form coatings that adhere well to the cermet substrate. The coatings show a better homogeneity in comparison to powders and more favourable phase composition.Keywords: cermets, plasma spraying, corrosion resistance
Mechanisms for the Transfer of Innovative Surface Engineering Solutions to Industrial Practice on the Example of Hybrid Layers
Authors: Mazurkiewicz Adam , Smolik Jerzy , Poteralska Beata
Published: August 2015

Advanced surface engineering technologies are the basis of the intense technological development in the world over the past several decades. The rapid development of surface engineering resulted in the appearance of many new top layer solutions, such as multi-layer coatings, nanostructured coatings, and hybrid layers, which prove to be very effective in their applications. The production of layers and coatings with complex microstructure and application requirements (related to coated materials, the geometry of the engineered elements, economic viability) create a need for advanced technological and organizational solutions.This article presents a technology of manufacturing a hybrid layer: “nitrided layer + (Cr/CrN) multilayer,” intended to increase the durability of hot forging dies. Based on this example, those surface engineering fields are presented where simultaneous intensive development is necessary to ensure an efficient process of transferring innovative surface engineering solutions to the industry.
mTOR Inhibition Per Se Induces Nuclear Localization of FOXP3 and Conversion of Invariant NKT (iNKT) Cells into Immunosuppressive Regulatory iNKT Cells
Authors: Huijts Charlotte M. , Schneiders Famke L. , Garcia-Vallejo Juan J. , Verheul Henk M. , de Gruijl Tanja D. , van der Vliet Hans J.
Published: August 2015

CD1d-restricted activation of invariant NKT (iNKT) cells results in the abundant production of various types of cytokines and the subsequent modulation of immune responses. This has been shown to be relevant in several clinical disorders, including cancer, autoimmunity, and graft tolerance. Although it is well known that the suppressive function of regulatory T cells is critically dependent on the FOXP3 gene, FOXP3 can also be expressed by conventional human T cells upon activation, indicating the lack of specificity of FOXP3 as a marker for suppressive cells. In this study, we report that the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor rapamycin and IL-10, but not TGF-β, can induce FOXP3 expression in iNKT cell lines. Importantly, however, FOXP3+ iNKT cells only acquired suppressive abilities when cultured in the presence of the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin. Suppression of responder T cell proliferation by FOXP3+ iNKT cells was found to be cell contact–dependent and was accompanied by a reduced capacity of iNKT cells to secrete IFN-γ. Notably, imaging flow cytometry analysis demonstrated predominant nuclear localization of FOXP3 in suppressive FOXP3+ iNKT cells, whereas nonsuppressive FOXP3+ iNKT cells showed a predominance of cytoplasmically localized FOXP3. In conclusion, whereas IL-10 can enhance FOXP3 expression in iNKT cells, mTOR inhibition is solely required for promoting nuclear localization of FOXP3 and the induction of suppressive FOXP3+ iNKT cells.
Store-Operated Ca2+ Release-Activated Ca2+ Channels Regulate PAR2-Activated Ca2+ Signaling and Cytokine Production in Airway Epithelial Cells
Authors: Jairaman Amit , Yamashita Megumi , Schleimer Robert P. , Prakriya Murali
Published: August 2015

The G-protein–coupled protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory and auto-immune disorders. In airway epithelial cells (AECs), stimulation of PAR2 by allergens and proteases triggers the release of a host of inflammatory mediators to regulate bronchomotor tone and immune cell recruitment. Activation of PAR2 turns on several cell signaling pathways of which the mobilization of cytosolic Ca2+ is likely a critical but poorly understood event. In this study, we show that Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channels encoded by stromal interaction molecule 1 and Orai1 are a major route of Ca2+ entry in primary human AECs and drive the Ca2+ elevations seen in response to PAR2 activation. Activation of CRAC channels induces the production of several key inflammatory mediators from AECs including thymic stromal lymphopoietin, IL-6, and PGE2, in part through stimulation of gene expression via nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT). Furthermore, PAR2 stimulation induces the production of many key inflammatory mediators including PGE2, IL-6, IL-8, and GM-CSF in a CRAC channel–dependent manner. These findings indicate that CRAC channels are the primary mechanism for Ca2+ influx in AECs and a vital checkpoint for the induction of PAR2-induced proinflammatory cytokines.
Dietary calcium intake in a cohort of elderly patients already in drug therapy for osteoporosis. Is it possible and how to modify the eating habits before calcium supplementation?
Authors: Manzo Ciro , Russo Maria Teresa
Published: August 2015

Inadequate intake of calcium via the diet is very common in patients taking drugs for osteoporosis. We have evaluated 302 consecutive elderly patients (68.6 median age) attending our Rheumatological and Orthopedic Outpatient Clinics using a questionnaire for evaluation of dietary calcium intake. Two hundred and forty of these had a questionnaire score 7 in 205/240 after an average period of 3-6 months. In the 35 patients in which this was not possible, the exact knowledge of calcium dietary intake (poor or absent) has allowed a tailored calcium supplementation.
South Africa: The early quest for liberty and democracy
Authors: Dreyer Wim A.
Published: August 2015

The early quest for liberty and political freedom in South Africa had been influenced by various factors, inter alia political sentiments which originated in Reformed, Huguenot and Patriotten political theory. An analysis of early political ideas indicates that religious sentiments had a significant influence on the development of political ideas. These sentiments and ideas all contributed to a passionate search for freedom, justice and democracy. The different strata of religious and political ideas manifest in a continuous and discontinuous way, giving the impression of fragmented and contorted ideas, but still recognisable in terms of their origins. This contribution is an attempt to identify some of the fragmented and contorted strata of ideas which influenced the early quest for political freedom and the rejection of British colonial rule in South Africa.
Impact of Expression Levels of Platinum-uptake Transporters Copper Transporter 1 and Organic Cation Transporter 2 on Resistance to Anthracycline/Taxane-based Chemotherapy in Triple-negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Takeda Risa , Naka Ayano , Ogane Naoki , Kameda Yoichi , Kawachi Kae , Shimizu Satoru , Kamoshida Shingo
Published: August 2015

Adding platinum drugs to anthracycline/taxane (ANC-Tax)-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) improves pathological complete response (pCR) rates in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Copper transporter 1 (CTR1) and organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2) critically affect the uptake and cytotoxicity of platinum drugs. We immunohistochemically determined CTR1 and OCT2 levels in pre-chemotherapy biopsies from 105 patients with HER2-negative breast cancer treated with ANC-Tax-based NAC. In the TNBC group, Ki-67high[pathological good response (pGR), P = 0.04] was associated with response, whereas CTR1high(non-pGR, P = 0.03), OCT2high(non-pGR, P = 0.01; non-pCR, P = 0.03), and combined CTR1highand/or OCT2high(non-pGR, P = 0.005; non-pCR, P = 0.003) were associated with non-response. In multivariate analysis, Ki-67highwas an independent factor for pGR and CTR1 for non-pGR. Combined CTR1/OCT2 was a strong independent factor for non-pGR. However, no variables were associated with response in luminal BC. These results indicate that platinum uptake transporters are predominantly expressed in ANC-Tax-resistant TNBCs, which implies that advantage associated with adding platinum drugs may depend on high drug uptake.
High Skp2/Low p57Kip2 Expression is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Human Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Yang Chengcheng , Nan Haocheng , Ma Jiequn , Jiang Lili , Guo Qianqian , Han Lili , Zhang Yamin , Nan Kejun , Guo Hui
Published: August 2015

Downregulation of p57Kip2 is involved in tumor progression, and S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 (Skp2) is an E3 ligase that regulates a variety of cell cycle proteins. However, the prognostic value of p57Kip2 and its correlation with Skp2 in breast cancer have not been fully elucidated. Here we report our study on the expression of p57Kip2 and Skp2 in 102 breast cancer patients by immunohistochemistry, and analysis of clinicopathologic parameters in relation to patient prognosis. The expression of p57Kip2 was negatively associated with Skp2 expression in breast cancer ( r = −0.26, P = 0.009). Kaplan–Meier analysis indicated that both high Skp2 and low p57Kip2 correlated with poor disease-free survival (DFS) (P < 0.05), and a group with the combination of high Skp2/low p57Kip2 demonstrated even worse DFS (log-rank = 21.118, P < 0.001). In addition, univariate analysis showed that Skp2, p57Kip2, histological grade, lymph node metastasis, and estrogen and progesterone receptors (ER and PR) were all associated with DFS, and multivariate analysis revealed that lymph node metastasis and Skp2 were independent prognostic biomarkers. The correlation between p57 and Skp2 was further demonstrated in multiple breast cancer cell lines and cell cycle phases. Half-life and immunoprecipitation (IP) experiments indicated that Skp2 directly interacts with p57Kip2 and promotes its degradation, rather than its mutant p57Kip2 (T310A). Overall, our findings demonstrate that Skp2 directly degrades p57Kip2, and an inverse correlation between these proteins (high skp2/low p57Kip2) is associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer. Thus, our results indicate a combined prognostic value of these markers in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Association of FcγRIIa Polymorphism with Clinical Outcome of Dengue Infection: First Insight from Pakistan
Authors: Mohsin Saima Naz , Mahmood Saqib , Amar Ali , Ghafoor Farkhanda , Raza Syed Mohsin , Saleem Mahjabeen
Published: August 2015

Dengue illness has been a major health concern in Pakistan during the last decade. Dengue infection can result in a spectrum of clinically distinct outcomes, ranging from asymptomatic infection to potentially life-threatening forms of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS). A single-nucleotide polymorphism in FcγRIIa (rs1801274) results in altered affinity of the receptor for different subclasses of immunoglobulin G, and is a key player in determining the susceptibility to or protection from severe clinical infection of dengue. In this study, we analyzed the allelic and genotypic distribution of rs1801274 in subjects of Pakistani origin with subclinical dengue infection (n = 40), dengue fever (DF) (n = 40), and DHF/DSS (n = 30). We found that HH homozygotes and heterozygotes were significantly more likely to develop clinical dengue (odds ratio [OR] = 3.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.29–7.97, P = 0.009), either DF (OR = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.00–7.97, P = 0.045) or DHF/DSS (OR = 3.90, 95% CI = 1.13–13.07, P = 0.024) than the asymptomatic dengue infection. Results of allelic distribution comparisons and logistic regression analysis also supported the same relationship. The results suggest complex nature of interacting factors in determining the course for severe dengue illness.
Size distributions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in urban atmosphere: sorption mechanism and source contributions to respiratory deposition
Authors: Lv Y. , Li X. , Xu T. T. , Cheng T. T. , Yang X. , Chen J. M. , Linuma Y. , Herrmann H.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Current knowledge on atmospheric particle-phase polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) size distribution remains incomplete. Information is missing on sorption mechanisms and the influence of the PAHs' sources on their transport in human respiratory system. Here we present the studies systematically investigating the modal distribution characteristics of the size-fractioned PAHs and calculating the source contribution to adverse health effects through inhalation. Aerosol samples with nine size fractions were collected from Shanghai urban air over one year period 2012–2013. A high correlation coefficient existed between measured and predicted values (R2= 0.87), indicated that the data worked very well in current study. Most PAHs were observed on the small particles followed with seasonality differences. When normalized by PAHs across particle diameters, the size distribution of PAHs exhibited bimodal patterns, with a peak (0.4–2.1 μm) in fine mode and another peak (3.3–9.0 μm) in coarse mode, respectively. Along with the increasing ring number of PAHs, the intensity of the fine mode peak increased, while coarse mode peak decreased. Plotting of log(PAH/PM) against log(Dp) showed that all slope values were above −1 with the increase towards less-ring PAHs, suggesting that multiple mechanisms, i.e. adsorption and absorption controlled the PAHs on particles, but adsorption played a much stronger role for 5- and 6-ring than 3- and 4-ring PAHs. The mode distribution behavior of PAHs showed that fine particles were major carriers for the more-ring PAHs. Further calculations using inhaling PAHs data showed the total deposition fluxes in respiratory tract were 8.8 ± 2.0 ng h-1. Specifically, fine particles contributed 10–40 % of PAHs deposition fluxes to the alveolar region, while coarse particles contributed 80–95 % of ones to the head region. Estimated lifetime cancer risk (LCR) for people exercised in haze days (1.5 × 10-6) was bigger than the cancer risk guideline value (10-6). The largest PAHs contribution for LCR mainly came from the accumulation particles. Based on source apportionment results generated by positive matrix factorization (PMF), it was found that the cancer risk caused in accumulated mode mainly resulted from biomass burning (24 %), coal combustion (25 %) and vehicular emission (27 %). The present results contribute to a mechanistic understanding of PAHs size distribution causing adverse health effects and will help develop some source control strategies or policies by relying on respiratory assessment data.
Inverse modeling of black carbon emissions over China using ensemble data assimilation
Authors: Wang P. , Wang H. , Wang Y. Q. , Zhang X. Y. , Gong S. L. , Xue M. , Zhou C. H. , Liu H. L. , An X. Q. , Niu T. , Chen Y. L.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Emissions inventories of black carbon (BC), which are traditionally constructed using a "bottom-up" approach based on activity data and emissions factors, are considered to contain a large level of uncertainty. In this paper, an ensemble optimal interpolation (EnOI) data assimilation technique is used to investigate the possibility of optimally recovering the spatially resolved emissions bias of BC. An inverse modeling system for emissions is established for an atmospheric chemistry aerosol model and two key problems related to ensemble data assimilation in the top-down emissions estimation are discussed: (1) how to obtain reasonable ensembles of prior emissions; and (2) establishing a scheme to localize the background-error matrix. An experiment involving a one month simulation cycle with EnOI inversion of BC emissions is performed for January 2008. The bias of the BC emissions intensity in China at each grid point is corrected by this inverse system. The inversed emission over China in January is 240.1 Gg, and annual emission is about 2750 Gg, which is over 1.8 times of bottom-up emission inventory. The results show that, even though only monthly mean BC measurements are employed to inverse the emissions, the accuracy of the daily model simulation improves. Using top-down emissions, the average root-mean-square error of simulated daily BC is decreased by nearly 30 %. These results are valuable and promising for a better understanding of aerosol emissions and distributions, as well as aerosol forecasting.