bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Lure of Translingual Writing
Authors: Matsuda Paul Kei
Published: September 2014

Translingual writing is all the rage among scholars and teachers of writing studies in the united states. The last decade has seen a plethora of publications on this topic, many of which have received prestigious awards, and conferences have highlighted translingual writing and related topics. It seems that translingual writing has established itself as an intellectual movement. The attention to language in United States writing studies—a field that has traditionally found ways to dissociate itself from language—is a welcome change. At the same time, I am uneasy about the termtranslingual writingbecause, as the enthusiasm for this new and evolving intellectual endeavor continues to grow, the notion of translingual writing seems to be uncritically accepted and celebrated.
Lateral displacement of PVD-improved deposit under embankment loading
Authors: Xu F. , Chai J.-C.
Published: September 2014

ABSTRACT: The likely range of values of the maximum lateral displacement of the ground caused by embankment loading of a soil deposit improved by the installation of geosynthetic prefabricated vertical drains (PVDs) was investigated. This involved a study of 18 field cases and an empirical equation for predicting the maximum lateral displacement is proposed. The proposed equation considers the effects of the embankment load, loading rate, and the deformation, consolidation and strength properties of the soft subsoil. Combining the proposed equation with a previously established equation for predicting the lateral displacement of soft soil deposits under the combined action of embankment and vacuum pressure loading provides a method for estimating the likely range of values of the maximum lateral displacement of a PVD-improved deposit under embankment loading with or without the application of vacuum pressure. It is suggested that the proposed method can be used as a design tool in geotechnical practice.
Benefits of geosynthetic reinforcement in widening of embankments subjected to foundation differential settlement
Authors: Miao L. , Wang F. , Han J. , Lv W.
Published: September 2014

ABSTRACT: In the present study, physical model tests were conducted to investigate the effect of the geogrid reinforcement on the reduction of the differential settlement in widening of a highway embankment. A water bag filled with water and placed beneath an embankment was used to simulate the soft foundation of the widened portion of the embankment in the physical model test. Water from the water bag was drained to simulate the development of differential settlements between the existing and widened foundations of the embankment. The geogrid layers were installed with one side fixed in the existing embankment to provide enough anchorage in the physical model tests. Settlements of the embankment, strains in the geogrids and earth pressures were monitored during the test. The test results show that the geogrid layers stabilised the soil arching in the embankment, reduced the differential settlement on the embankment surface, and enhanced the serviceability of the widened embankment. The differential settlement reduction by geogrid reinforcement in the model tests was about 20 to 30 mm. Finally, the benefits of the geogrid reinforcement in the Jiang-Liu highway widening project including controlling the differential settlement in the embankment were validated based on the observed data.
DEM Reconstruction Based on Adaptive Local RBF
Authors: Duan Ping , Sheng Yehua , Zhang Siyang , Lv Haiyang , Li Jia
Published: September 2014

As the core of digital elevation model, interpolation methods have been run through the each link, such as production, quality control, accuracy assessment, analytical applications and etc. The local radial basis function interpolation method based on spatial relationship of natural neighbor was proposed in this paper. The interpolation reference points were chosen by the Delaunay Triangulation. The first-order and second-order neighboring of interpolation points as the interpolation reference points were used to construct local radial basis function. This method was applied to the construction of digital elevation model, and the correspondent errors were analyzed. Experimental result shows that the method has a good effect on the construction of different landform.
Calculation Principle and Test Applications for Digital Speckle Correlation Technology
Authors: Liu Yongsheng , CHEN Zhang-lin , Liu Wang , Dong Xinyu
Published: September 2014

With SSD algorithm and calculus process in detail computing, the basic calculation principles and the solution process from digital image to displacement of digital speckle correlation technology were described. Then the digital speckle correlation technology were used to the tensile test of CFRP plate embedded reinforcement beams, obtained the displacement cloud image and destruction rules of the specimens. The results show that the calculation results analyzed by the digital image correlation technology are in good agreement with the experimental phenomena. And the technology has the characteristic of full field measurement, simple operation, strong adaptability and high precision, so it has the widespread application prospect, especially suitable for application in the mechanical properties of materials under complex conditions, a large section of the destruction process monitoring and other fields.
Design and Rationale of Gulf locals with Acute Coronary Syndrome Events (Gulf Coast) Registry
Authors: Zubaid Mohammad , Thani Khalid Bin , Rashed Wafa , Alsheikh-Ali Alawi , Alrawahi Najib , Ridha Mustafa , Akbar Mousa , Alenezi Fahad , Alhamdan Rashed , Almahmeed Wael , Ouda Hussam , Al-Mulla Arif , Baslaib Fahad , Shehab Abdulla , Alnuaimi Abdulla , Amin Haitham , Krumholz Harlan M
Published: September 2014

Objectives:

To describe the risk profile, management and one-year outcomes of patients hospitalized with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in the Gulf region of the Middle East.

Subjects and Methods:

The Gulf locals with acute coronary syndrome events (Gulf COAST) registry is a prospective, multinational, longitudinal, observational, cohort-based registry of consecutive citizens, from the Gulf region of the Middle East, admitted from January 2012 to January 2013 to 29 hospitals with a diagnosis of ACS. Data entered online included patient demographics, cardiovascular risk profiles, past medical history, physical findings on admission, in-hospital diagnostic tests and therapeutic management, as well as one year outcomes.

Results:

3188 patients were recruited. The mean age was 60.4 ± 12.6years (range: 22-112), 2104 (66%) were males and 1084 (34%) females. The discharge diagnosis was ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in 741 (23.2%), new-onset left bundle branch block myocardial infarction (LBBBMI) in 30 (0.9%), non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) in 1486 (46.6%) and unstable angina in 931 (29.2%). At hospital presentation, 2105 (66%), 1779 (55.8%), 1703 (53.4%) and 740 (23.2%) had history of hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus and active smoking, respectively.

Conclusion:

Patients with ACS in our region are young with very high risk profile. The Gulf COAST registry is an example of successful regional collaboration and will provide information on contemporary management of ACS in the region.
Peripheral Desmoplastic Ameloblastoma in Adolescent Age: Clinico-Pathological and Immunohistochemical Analisys of a Case
Authors: Oteri Giacomo , Lentini Maria , Pisano Michele , Cicciù Marco
Published: September 2014

The Extraosseous or Peripheral Ameloblastoma (PA) is a rare and benign odontogenic tumour, representing 1% to 5% of all ameloblastomas. It is usually localized in the soft oral tissues, without deep bone involvement. Its biological behaviour is specific, and several authors define PA as a non-infiltrating hamartomatous lesion. Indeed, recurrences rarely occur and progression in malignant tumors appears to be rare.

The PA originates from the tooth-forming apparatus and it consists of proliferating odontogenic epithelium, exhibiting the same histological cell types and patterns of the intraosseous counterpart or infiltrating ameloblastoma.

The peripheral desmoplastic ameloblastoma (PDA) can be classified as a newly recognized and very rare histological variant. To our knowledge, only a few cases of adult patients affected by PDA have been published.

The aim of this paper is to report a case of PDA affecting an adolescent patient. The clinical-pathological and immunohistological features are discussed in order to improve knowledge regarding a correct diagnosis and to differentiate PDA lesions from similar diseases.
What is the Best Root Surface Treatment for Avulsed Teeth?
Authors: Tuna Elif B , Yaman Duygu , Yamamato Seiko
Published: September 2014

Dental avulsion is the most severe type of traumatic tooth injuries since it causes damage to several structures and results in avulsion of the tooth from its socket. Management protocols for avulsed teeth should include management of the pulp and periodontal ligament (PDL) cells in order to improve the long-term prognosis and survival of these teeth. The prognosis of the treatment as well as the survival of an avulsed tooth depends on intrinsic and extrinsic factors, such as the duration of the tooth’s extra-alveolar period, replantation time, the type of storage medium, PDL status and duration of splinting.

Recent research has led to the development of storage media. However, there is not yet a single solution that fulfills all requirements to be considered as the ideal medium for temporary storage of avulsed teeth, and research on this field should carry on. On the other hand in case of delayed replantation, due to the great risk of tooth loss after avulsion, different root surface treatments have been proposed to prevent and delay root resorption before replantation. For this purpose, researchers have applied some different root surface treatment modalities in delayed replantation of avulsed teeth. Several protocols have been used to maintain PDL viability; some involve fluorides, steroids, sodium alendronate, enamel matrix derivatives (EMD) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF, FGF-2). Among these applications, bFGF shows promising results in the regeneration of natural tooth structures and tissues. Better understanding of mechanism of bFGF may help to improve new technologies of regeneration of tooth structures.
Early Identification of Acute Kidney Injury after Bariatric Surgery: Role of NGAL and Cystatin C
Authors: Anna Sidoti , Marilu Giacalone , Antonio Abramo , Marco Anselmino , Donadio Carlo , Di Salvo laudio , Francesco Giunta , Francesco Forfori
Published: September 2014

Background:

The aim of our study was to evaluate plasmatic and urinary NGAL and serum cystatin C as early
diagnostic markers of acute kidney injury in obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery.

Methods:

For this this prospective observational study, we recruited 23 patients undergoing gastric by-pass or sleeve
gastrectomy, and admitted to the Low Dependence Unit after the surgery. Plasma NGAL (pNGAL), urinary NGAL
(uNGAL), serum cystatin C, serum creatinine, and serum urea were measured before surgery as well as 10 h and 24 h
after surgery.

Mean values of pNGAL, uNGAL, cystatin C, creatinine, and urea concentrations of pre- and post-surgery periods were
compared using Student’s t test for paired data. We also evaluated the presence of correlation between modifications of
NGAL and cystatin C after surgery and fluid balance, hydration (ml/kg) and diuresis using Pearson’s coefficient of
correlation.

Results:

No patient developed AKI according to the AKIN criteria. pNGAL was significantly higher at T10h than T0 (p=0.004). There was no significant difference between uNGAL at T0 and T10h (p=0.53) and between uNGAL at T0 and
T24h (p=0.31). uNGAL at T was significantly higher in comparison to T10h (p=0.024). uNGAL concentrations were
normal in all patients at every time step.

Cystatin C concentration did not increase after surgery.

Serum creatinine level was significantly higher at T48h, despite being still within the normal range, when compared to T0
(p=0.038).

Conclusion:

Our study shows that pNGAL can reflect mild tubular damage as its levels increase within a few hours from
surgery and return to normal limits afterwards. Concerning uNGAL, there is a minimal increase at T24h, when NGAL
concentration in plasma has already decreased. Serum cystatin C does not show any relevant kidney changes, or at least,
no more than those ones shown by pNGAL.
Assessment of implant stability by resonant frequency analysis
Authors: Konstantinovic Vitomir , Ivanjac Filip , Lazic Vojkan , Djordjevic Igor
Published: September 2014

nema
Value of bacterial culture of vaginal swabs in diagnosis of vaginal infections
Authors: Nenadic Dane , Pavlovic Milos
Published: September 2014

Bacground/Aim. Vaginal and cervical swab culture is still very common
procedure in our country?s everyday practice whereas simple and rapid
diagnostic methods have been very rarely used. The aim of this study was to
show that the employment of simple and rapid diagnostic tools [vaginal fluid
wet mount microscopy (VFWMM), vaginal pH and potassium hydroxide (KOH) test]
offers better assessment of vaginal environment than standard microbiologic
culture commonly used in Serbia. Methods. This prospective study included 505
asymptomatic pregnant women undergoing VFWMM, test with 10% KOH,
determination of vaginal pH and standard culture of cervicovaginal swabs.
Combining findings from the procedures was used to make diagnoses of
bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vaginitis. In addition, the number of
polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) was determined in each sample and analyzed
along with other findings. Infections with Candida albicans and Trichomonas
vaginalis were confirmed or excluded by microscopic examination. Results. In
36 (6%) patients cervicovaginal swab cultures retrieved several aerobes and
facultative anaerobes, whereas in 52 (11%) women Candida albicans was
isolated. Based on VFWMM findings and clinical criteria 96 (19%) women had
BV, 19 (4%) vaginitis, and 72 (14%) candidiasis. Of 115 women with BV and
vaginitis, pH 4.5 was found in 5, and of 390 with normal findings 83 (21%)
had vaginal pH 4.5. Elevated numbers of PMN were found in 154 (30%) women -
in 83 (54%) of them VFWMM was normal. Specificity and sensitivity of KOH test
and vaginal pH determination in defining pathological vaginal flora were 95%
and 81%, and 79% and 91%, respectively. Conclusion. Cervicovaginal swab
culture is expensive but almost non-informative test in clinical practice.
The use of simpler and rapid methods as vaginal fluid wet mount microscopy,
KOH test and vaginal pH offers better results in diagnosis, and probably in
the treatment and prevention of sequels of vaginal infections.
Unresolved Issues Regarding the U.S. Foreign Tax Credit: A Case of the United Kingdom Windfall Tax
Authors: Vermeer Beth Y. , Greenstein Brian R.
Published: September 2014

In May 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court decided PPL Corp. & Subsidiaries v. Comm'r to resolve a split between the Third and Fifth Circuit Courts of Appeals regarding whether the U.K. windfall tax constitutes a creditable tax under Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 901. The results of this case have policy implications reaching far beyond a one-time foreign tax credit of $488 million for the three U.S. companies affected. In the Supreme Court decision on the U.K. windfall tax, the justices affirmed the substance over form approach to the net gain criteria in the Treasury Regulations and, thus, agreed that the foreign taxes should be creditable in this case. However, the justices left open the interpretation of the predominant character test, leaving unresolved issues regarding how this test should be interpreted in future cases and, specifically, what effect outliers may have on future interpretations of the foreign tax credit regulations. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to describe the origins of the U.K. windfall tax; highlight the Tax Court, Circuit Courts of Appeals, and Supreme Court decisions; and discuss the potential consequences for future tax policy stemming from this issue.
CO2 Laser Glazing Treatment of a Veneering Porcelain: Effects on Porosity, Translucency, and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Sgura R , Reis MC dos , Salvadori MC , Hernandes AC , Cesar PF , Medeiros IS
Published: September 2014

This work tested CO2 laser as a glazing agent and investigated the effects of irradiation on the porosity, translucency, and mechanical properties of veneering porcelain. Sixty discs (diameter 3.5 × 2.0 mm) of veneering porcelain for Y-TZP frameworks (VM9, VITA Zahnfabrik) were sintered and had one of their faces mirror polished. The specimens were divided into six groups (n=10/group) according to surface treatment, as follows: no treatment–control; auto-glaze in furnace following manufacturer's instructions (G); and CO2 laser (45 or 50 W/cm2) applied for four or five minutes (L45/4, L45/5, L50/4, L50/5). Optical microscopy (Shimadzu, 100×) was conducted and the images were analyzed with Image J software for the determination of the following porosity parameters: area fraction, average size, and Feret diameter. The translucency parameter studied was masking ability, determined by color difference (ΔE) over black and white backgrounds (CM3370d, Konica Minolta). Microhardness and fracture toughness (indentation fracture) were measured with a Vickers indenter (HMV, Shimadzu). Contact atomic force microscopy (AFM) (50 × 50 μm2, Nanoscope IIIA, Veeco) was performed at the center of one sample from each group, except in the case of L45/5. With regard to porosity and translucency parameters, auto-glazed and laser-irradiated specimens presented statistical similarity. The area fraction of the surface pores ranged between 2.4% and 5.4% for irradiated specimens. Group L50/5 presented higher microhardness when compared to the G group. The higher (1.1) and lower (0.8) values for fracture toughness (MPa.m1/2) were found in laser-irradiated groups (L50/4 and L45/4, respectively). AFM performed after laser treatment revealed changes in porcelain surface profile at a submicrometric scale, with the presence of elongated peaks and deep valleys.
The Transformation of Energy Risk in the Baltic States
Authors: Leonavičius Vylius , Genys Dainius
Published: September 2014

The aim of the article is to reveal the process of energy risk transformation, which creates concrete hazards for citizens of the Baltic States. The article analyzes two sides of the same problem - district heating (DH) and the renovation of multi-apartment houses. The article will show that the transformation of energy risk is affected by the legacy of a specific constellation of technological, economic and social elements of Soviet infrastructure that appears in a specific and particularly precarious shape under conditions of liberal market capitalism as regards energy security.

The article consists of four parts. The first part describes the issue of district heating and shows its relation with social science. The second part describes the relation of energy risk with modernization and shows how the change of structural conditions (change from industrial society to risk society) transform concrete aspects of energy system (DH whichwere build to meet society’s need) from less risky to a serious hazard for society (which due to the rise of risk society no longer satisfies society’s needs and becomes an unsolvable problem). The third part discusses the two aspects of state socialism housing policy: social and economic. The social aspect of Soviet housing policy was a part of society's social homogenization, carried out by Soviet authorities. The economic aspect refers to the Soviet state's priorities that pushed the housing provision into the periphery of social policy. The fourth part discusses the attempts of already independent countries to solve DH problems. It is demonstrated that active and independent decisions requiring business model was imposed on passive society strongly dependent upon government decisions. Therefore, the renovation process of multi-apartment houses is complicated. The switchover to a market economy after the emergence of private property and rise of energy prices as well as the state's inability to subsidize the DH to a large extent, have highlighted the losses resulting from the multi-apartment buildings’ poor quality.
Shock structures in the Morasko meteorite - preliminary SEM data
Authors: Brachaniec Tomasz
Published: September 2014

This paper is a preliminary review of main shock deformations in the Morasko meteorite. Three main types of metamorphism structures occur in the investigated material: (i) brittle, (ii) plastic and (iii) thermal. Their interpretation may indicate, that Morasko meteorite reveals several stages of shock, eg.: extraterrestrial collisions and fall on the Earth
In situ measurements of natural radioactivity in selected igneous rocks of the Opava Mountain region
Authors: Dżaluk Agnieszka , Malczewski Dariusz , Żaba Jerzy , Dziurowicz Maria
Published: September 2014

In situ gamma-ray measurements of four igneous rocks were taken in the Opava Mountains (Eastern Sudetes, Poland). The activity of naturally occurring radionuclides was measured using a portable GX3020 gamma-ray spectrometry workstation. The activity concentrations of 40K varied from 914 ± 17 Bqkg-1 (gneiss, Kamienna Góra) to 2019 ± 37 Bqkg-1 (weathered granite, Sławniowice), while those of 232Th from 7.5 ± 0.6 Bqkg-1 (weathered granite, Sławniowice) to 68 ± 0.9 Bqkg-1 (migmatitic gneiss, Nadziejów). The activities associated with 238U decay series ranged from 10 ± 0.4 Bqkg-1 (weathered granite, Sławniowice) to 62 ± 1.6 Bqkg-1 (gneiss, Kamienna Góra). The results will be used in compiling Radiological Atlas of the Sudetes
Ordovician Jeleniów Claystone Formation of the Holy Cross Mountains, Poland – Reconstruction of redox conditions using pyrite framboid study
Authors: Smolarek Justyna , Marynowski Leszek , Trela Wiesław
Published: September 2014

The aim of this research is to reconstruct palaeoredox conditions during sedimentation of the Jeleniów Claystone Formation deposits, using framboid pyrite diameter measurements. Analysis of pyrite framboids diameter distribution is an effective method in the palaeoenvironmental interpretation which allow for a more detailed insight into the redox conditions, and thus the distinction between euxinic, dysoxic and anoxic conditions. Most of the samples is characterized by framboid indicators typical for anoxic/euxinic conditions in the water column, with average (mean) values ranging from 5.29 to 6.02 μm and quite low standard deviation (SD) values ranging from 1.49 to 3.0. The remaining samples have shown slightly higher values of framboid diameter typical for upper dysoxic conditions, with average values (6.37 to 7.20 μm) and low standard deviation (SD) values (1.88 to 2.88). From the depth of 75.5 m till the shallowest part of the Jeleniów Claystone Formation, two samples have been examined and no framboids has been detected. Because secondary weathering should be excluded, the lack of framboids possibly indicates oxic conditions in the water column. Oxic conditions continue within the Wólka Formation based on the lack of framboids in the ZB 51.6 sample
A Predictive Model of Multi-Stage Production Planning for Fixed Time Orders
Authors: Kozłowski Edward , Terkaj Walter , Gola Arkadiusz , Hajduk Mikuláš , Świć Antoni
Published: September 2014

The traditional production planning model based upon a deterministic approach is well described in the literature. Due to the uncertain nature of manufacturing processes, such model can however incorrectly represent actual situations on the shop floor. This study develops a mathematical modeling framework for generating production plans in a multistage manufacturing process. The devised model takes into account the stochastic model for predicting the occurrence of faulty products. The aim of the control model is to determine the number of products which should be manufactured in each planning period to minimize both manufacturing costs and potential financial penalties for failing to fulfill the order completely.
Confounding Factors of the Diabetes - Metformin - Cancer Relationship
Authors: Aldea Mihaela , Craeiun Lucian , Popescu Tiberiu , Nenu Iuliana , Crivii Carmen
Published: September 2014

An increasing wealth of knowledge in oncology and diabetes points to metformin, the most widely used oral anti-diabetic worldwide, as a potential anticancer drug. Metformin has not only been shown to reduce the risk of developing cancer, but recent studies have also highlighted the impact that this drug might have on cancer aggressiveness, progression and survival. Several categories of confounding factors, some of them not taken into account in current clinical studies, may lead to an incorrect estimation of the true effect that metformin might have in cancer patients. It is important to assess whether the insulin lowering effects of metformin may constitute the main antineoplastic mechanism of action or if this may be due to an underlying direct effect. Such reasons warrant that new prospective research should take into account patient insulin levels, the duration and doses of metformin treatment and also include a cohort of non-diabetic patients for comparison. Measurement of the optimal antineoplastic dosage of metformin and proper quantification of established confounding factors will likely lead to a better understanding and estimation of metformin’s true anti-cancer effects, ultimately resulting in a better clinical management for diabetic patients with cancer.
New media, social capital and transnational migration: Slovaks in the UK
Authors: Lášticová Barbara
Published: September 2014

This paper investigates Slovak migrants’ use of new media to build social capital. It draws on data from a pilot study with 36 Slovaks living in the UK, and on content analysis of the main Facebook page for Czechs and Slovaks in the UK. The data suggest that Facebook is used for sharing emotions rather than to build a community and share practical information. While Facebook and Skype are used to maintain preexisting strong ties in the country of origin, face-to-face contact and mobile phones are used to maintain ties within the UK. However, social media do not seem to facilitate the formation of weak ties prior to migration, with face-to-face contact being dominant upon arrival. Transnational migration experience forms a separate dimension within the participants’ identity, independent from social capital. The data are discussed in relation to findings from previous studies about Slovak migrants in the Republic of Ireland.
LA-ICP-MS U-Pb dating and REE patterns of apatite from the Tatra Mountains, Poland as a monitor of the regional tectonomagmatic activity
Authors: Gawęda Aleksandra , Szopa Krzysztof , Chew David
Published: September 2014

This study presents apatite LA-ICP-MS U-Pb age and trace elements concentrations data from different granite types from the Tatra Mountains, Poland. Apatite from monazite and xenotime-bearing High Tatra granite was dated at 339 ± 5 Ma. The apatite LREE patterns reflect two types of magmas that contributed to this layered magma series. Apatite from a hybrid allanite-bearing diorite from the Goryczkowa Unit was dated at 340 ± 4 Ma with apatite LREE depletion reflecting the role of allanite and titanite during apatite crystallization. Apatite crystals from a hybrid cumulative rock from the Western Tatra Mountains were dated at 344 ± 3 Ma. Apatite is one of the main REE carriers in this sample and exhibit flat REE patterns.

Taking into account the relatively low closure temperature of the U-Pb system in apatite (350–550°C), the c. 340 Ma apatite ages mark the end of high temperature tectonometamorphic activity in the Tatra Mountains.
Changes in the serum protein electrophoretic pattern in lambs during the first month of life
Authors: Nagy Oskar , Tóthová Csilla , Nagyová Veronika , Kováč Gabriel , Pošivák Ján
Published: September 2014

Studies of the changes in serum protein pattern in the neonatal period in animals are still limited. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the changes in the concentrations of serum protein fractions in 7 clinically healthy merino lambs (4 males, 3 females) during their first month of life. The first blood sampling was performed before the colostrum intake and then at 1, 2, 7, 14 and 30 days of age. Blood serum was analysed for total serum protein concentrations and for the relative and absolute values of serum protein fractions - albumin, alpha1- (α1), alpha2- (α2), beta- (β), and gamma- (γ) globulins. The results showed a significant effect of age on the serum total protein concentrations and for all the protein fractions. The concentrations of total proteins and γ-globulins increased significantly 1 day after the colostrum intake (P< 0.001); then decreased gradually till the end of the 1st month. An opposite trend was observed in the concentrations of albumin. A significant decrease of values was found 1 day after the intake of colostrum (P< 0.001) with a subsequent progressive increase of values till the end of the evaluated period. The relative concentrations of α1-globulins significantly decreased during the first month of life (P< 0.001). On the other hand, the relative values of α2- and β-globulins increased significantly from birth till the end of the monitored period (P< 0.001). Our results suggest that the serum protein electrophoretic pattern in growing lambs is significantly influenced by the age of the evaluated animal, and this should be taken into consideration when interpreting the serum protein profile. Our findings extend existing knowledge about significant changes in the protein profile associated with the physiological adaptation process in the neonatal period in young animals.
The effect of manganese supplementation on its concentrations in blood, hair, and organs of goat kids
Authors: Pitropovska Elizaveta , Pechová Alena , Hauptmanová Kateřina , Husáková Taťána , Pavlata Leoš
Published: September 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of supplementation with an organic form of manganese on its concentration in blood, hair, and organs of goat kids. A total of 27 kids were divided into control and experimental groups on the day of their birth (Day 1). The kids were on mother’s milk only diet until the day of weaning (Day 70). After weaning the kids received pellets at doses 0.3 kg/head/day for next 70 days. The control group received pellets (manganese content 36.7 mg/kg) and the experimental group received pellets with extra manganese addition in the form of manganese proteinate at the amount of 220 mg/kg. Blood samples were taken on days 1, 70, 105, and 140; hair samples on days 1, 70, and 140. At the end of experiment, 7 kids from each group were slaughtered and samples of heart, liver, spleen, pancreas, kidney, muscle, and brain were taken. Manganese concentration was determined from fresh tissues after microwave digestion by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Kids of the experimental group had a significantly higher manganese concentration in the liver (4.90 vs. 3.06 mg/kg), heart (0.47 vs 0.28 mg/kg), kidney (1.29 vs. 0.87 mg/kg), brain (0.33 vs 0.26 mg/kg), and hair (4.25 vs. 3.14 mg/kg) compared to the control group. The manganese concentration in blood was not affected by supplementation. Results of this study indicate that using the mentioned organs and hair for evaluation of the manganese status in an organism is more suitable than the determination of manganese concentration in blood.
Rumen degradability and ileal digestibility of proteins and amino acids of feedstuffs for cows
Authors: Maskaľová Iveta , Vajda Vladimír , Krempaský Marek , Bujňák Lukáš
Published: September 2014

Knowledge of the profile of amino acids of the rumen-undegradable protein can help in the formulation of diets to provide amino acids that complement microbial protein as well as supply amino acids, which are most limiting for milk production. Three non-lactating cows fitted with rumen cannulas were used to determine the effect ofin siturumen degradation on crude protein and amino acid profile of rumen-undegraded protein of feedstuffs. The obtained values of rumen degradability of crude protein with significant difference (P< 0.001) between feeds ranged from 20.3 to 76.3% (mean 62.0 ± 17.9%) and values of total amino acids ranged from 30.9% in corn gluten meal to 83.8% in corn gluten feed (mean 67.5 ± 16.4%). Anin vitromodified 3-step method was used to determine intestinal digestibility. Intestinal digestibility of undegraded protein varied from 54.5 ± 1.4% in raw soybean to 95.2 ± 1.0% in corn gluten feed. The absorbable amino acid profile of rumen-undegraded protein for each feedstuff was compared with profiles of the original feedstuff and the rumen-exposed undegraded protein. Absorbable lysine (9.3 ± 1.1 g/kg of crude protein) was higher in products of soybean and sunflower cake. Corn gluten feed and meal supplied more absorbable methionine (3.6 ± 0.6 g/kg of crude protein). This study showed that the digestibility factor of crude protein and amino acid based onin situandin vitromethods for thermal treatment of protein feeds can be used in models to optimize the amino acid nutrition of dairy cows and expand knowledge about rumen degradability and ileal digestibility of amino acids in feedstuffs.
Early detection of septic arthritis caused by Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis in a dog – a case report
Authors: Dokuzeylül Banu , Metiner Kemal , Kahraman Beren Başaran , Kayar Abdullah , Özgür N. Yakut
Published: September 2014

In this report, a seven-year-old English Pointer male with Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis arthritis joint infection is presented. The dog was referred to the Internal Medicine Department Policlinics with the symptoms of anorexia, weakness, swollen joints and ulcerative wounds on testes. On physical examination, the dog was depressed and manifesting discomfort during manipulation of the fore and hind legs’ joints. There were palpable effusions of the right carpal, elbow, and tibiotarsal joints. Haematological and serum biochemical analyses showed mild anaemia, moderate thrombocytopaenia, and elevated alanine aminotransferase. As soon as the synovial fluid aspirates were obtained aseptically from the right elbow, radiocarpal, and tibiotarsal joints, they were sent to bacteriological examination. Symptomatic and supportive treatment was initiated immediately. Empirical enrofloxacin therapy was initially started. Bacteria which were cultivated from the synovial fluid aspirates specimen were identified as S. equisimilis. The isolate was found to be resistant to enrofloxacin and susceptible to amoxycillin/clavulanic acid. According to the results of the antimicrobial susceptibility tests, enrofloxacin therapy was terminated and amoxycillin/clavulanic acid therapy was immediately started lasting for four weeks. The dog was treated successfully. To our knowledge, Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis was isolated from the synovial fluid from a dog for the first time in Turkey, as it is rarely seen in dogs.
Analysis of the Frequency as an Integral Method for the Testing of Anisotropic 3D Sheet Metal Structure
Authors: Kazak Fedor , Weiss Sabine
Published: September 2014

The literature review showed that honeycomb-structured fine sheet metals were not adequately investigated regarding their fatigue strength. Moreover, some development in experimental methods for fatigue strength of structured specimens will be necessary. Honeycomb-structured fine sheet metals of the deep-drawing steel DC04 with a thickness of 0.5 mm were examined. Three specimen types were prepared and tested for their fatigue strength. The fatigue tests were performed on a resonant testing machine. Analysis of the resonant frequency was used to clarify the issues of stability and degradation mechanism of the structured sheet metals. A method for characterization of honeycomb-structured sheet metals under cyclic load was developed. Adopted clamping plates were constructed and used for the experiments. The fatigue strength of honeycomb-structured sheet metals was determined. The reasons for low fatigue limit of structured sheet metals were exposed and suggestions for improvement were presented.
Fabrication of Al/Mg Bimetal Compound Casting by Lost Foam Technique and Liquid-Solid Process
Authors: Guler Kerem Altug , Kisasoz Alptekin , Karaaslan Ahmet
Published: September 2014

In the present experimental study, bimetal aluminium/magnesium macro composites which contain magnesium core were fabricated via compound casting by lost foam casting process. AM50 Mg alloy prismatic core was placed into a cubic EPS foam pattern. Conventional process steps of lost foam casting were followed and A319 casting aluminium alloy was melted and poured. Experimental studies have shown that determination of casting temperature is very important to avoid melting of Mg alloy core. Microstructures of sectioned cast specimens were observed by light microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and Brinell hardness tests were carried out. Especially, transition zone and Al/Mg interface were in the focus of research.
Investigation of Lost Foam Casted Aluminum Bimetal Microstructures
Authors: Guler Kerem Altug , Kisasoz Alptekin , Karaaslan Ahmet
Published: September 2014

Production and applications of both ferrous and non-ferrous bimetals have been increased due to several advantages and the respective fabrication techniques and procedures are rapidly developing. Liquid metal based fabrication techniques of bimetal production can be classified in two types, i. e., liquid-solid and liquid-liquid processes. Lost foam casting technique can be successfully employed for both liquid-solid and liquid-liquid bimetal composite productions. In this study, A380 and A6063 aluminum alloys were used to produce a bimetallic structure by conventional lost foam casting with the liquid-liquid process. There are two main principles of the liquid-liquid process. Firstly, both alloys are joined in liquid phase and solidified. Secondly, crucible tilting of he metals is carried out synchronously at the same time. The Brinell hardness of the cast specimens was measured and the microstructures of the joint were investigated by light microscope and SEM. Additionally, EDX mapping analysis of the bonding zone was carried out.
Effects of Si and Zn on Machinability and Wear Resistance of AZ91 and AS91 Magnesium Alloys
Authors: Akyuz Birol
Published: September 2014

In this study, the effect of zinc (Zn) and silicon (Si) in the industrially very important magnesium alloys AZ91 (9 % Al, 1 % Zn) and AS91 (9 % Al, 1 % Si) has been investigated, with respect to wear resistance and machinability. The hardness of the intermetallic phases found in the microstructure of the alloys AZ91 and AS91 was observed to affect the wear resistance and machinability. It turned out that Mg2Si found in the microstructure of AS91 alloy reduced the machinability while this intermetallic phase increased the hardness and the wear resistance.
Radiation Emission during SMAW Applications on SS304 and A36 Steels*
Authors: Gursel Ali , Kurt Adem
Published: September 2014

High energy radiation is produced during arc welding applications. For this reason, it is important to investigate the process in detail with respect to the welding technique, electrical current and materials. In this study, the SMAW (shielded metal arc welding) technique was used to weld specimens made of stainless steel SS304 and of low carbon steel A36. Welding currents of 90, 105, 120 and 135 A were selected. The radiation types and luminosities were measured for each material as well as the respective magnitude of electrical current. During the welding applications, UV radiation was mostly observed. In addition, visible light and IR radiation in the range of 200 to 1000 nanometers on the optical scale were recorded. The effects of electric currents on the photon energy rates were clearly pronounced. A larger radiation energy was observed for the UV band for welding both materials at all parameters.
Influence of Welding Wire Selection on the Strength and Toughness of Welded Armor Steel Joints*
Authors: Evci Celal , Işık Halil , Değirmenci Ercan
Published: September 2014

Since MIL-A-46100D high hardness armor steel plates with excellent resistance to penetration exhibit high strength, selecting the proper electrode used in the gas metal arc welding process is particularly important to obtain a weld joint with high quality satisfying the adequate strength and toughness requirements at the same time. Selecting a consumable electrode with a lower strength than the armor material enhances the ductility and the toughness, reduces the risk of cracking in the weld zone, but it may lead to a considerable loss in strength of welded armor steel joints as well. Thus, an optimization of strength and toughness is required in welding high hardness armor steel plates. Within the scope of this study, two different austenitic stainless solid wires, one of which conforms to AWS 5.9 and the other one to AWS 5.28, and two different cored wires conforming to AWS 5.29 standards were analyzed and compared with respect to weld joint strength and toughness. Although weld joints fabricated with solid wires were superior in weld toughness, weld joints with austenitic cored wires exhibited considerably higher tensile strengths without a significant loss in toughness.
Effects of Surface Finishing on the Mechanical Properties of Induction Welded Iron Based Sintered Compacts*
Authors: Çavdar Uğur , Yalamac Emre , Gülsahin İbrahim
Published: September 2014

In this study, iron based sintered parts were welded by high frequency induction welding. The effects of surface roughness on the mechanical properties of induction welded samples were investigated. Polished and unpolished samples were welded and mechanically tested by three point bending test. The hardness of the samples increased from the base material towards the weld metal. The weld metal, heat affected zone and the base material of the samples were investigated by light microscopy. In contrast to the polished samples, corrosion attack was registered in the welded region of unpolished samples. According to the results, the welding duration affects the mechanical properties. However, the surface finishing process was the dominant factor for the bending strength of the welded samples.
Investigation of Mechanical Properties of MIG Brazed DP 600 Steel Joints Using Different Working Angles*
Authors: Varol Faruk , Colak Murat , Akkaş Nuri , Ozsarac Ugur , Aslanlar Salim
Published: September 2014

In this study, dual phase (DP 600) steel plates with a thickness of 1 mm were joined by copper-based (CuAl8) wire using gas metal arc brazing technique. Specimens were prepared in butt joint form. Brazing operations were done at four different working angles: 50°, 60°, 70°, 80° and 90°, respectively. CuAl8 wire consisted largely of copper served as the filler metal. After completing the brazing operations, the tensile properties as well as the micro- and macro-structures of the joints were analyzed in order to investigate the joinability of DP 600 steel using gas metal arc brazing technique.
Wear Behavior of Fe-C-Cr Based Hardfacing Alloys Dependent on Ferrovanadium and Ferrotungsten Addition*
Authors: Kapali Gülin , Şahin Salim , Yüksel Nilay , Sargin Fatih , Yaman Barbaros
Published: September 2014

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of vanadium and tungsten on wear behavior of Fe-C-Cr based hardfacing alloys. The wear behavior of hardfacing layers was determined by dry sand/rubber wheel abrasion tests according to ASTM G-65. The results of the abrasion tests were interpreted by metallographic examinations, SEM and EDX analyses as well as hardness measurements. According to the results of the experimental studies, the effect of W and V addition was discussed.
Mechanical Properties of Dissimilar and Similar Cold Metal Transfer Welded Galvanized Steel 1314 and Aluminum AA1050*
Authors: İrizalp Alaattin Ozan , Durmus Hülya , Yüksel Nilay , Türkmen İlyas , Uzun Onur
Published: September 2014

This study aims to investigate the weldability of 1050 aluminum alloy (AA1050) and galvanized 1314 steel by the cold metal transfer (CMT) procedur, comparing it with respective welding of similar aluminum sheets. Mechanical properties of welded specimens were determined by tensile testing and hardness measurements. The study was completed by microstructural analysis. The results showed that CMT welding can be applied successfully to join aluminum and steel.
Hydrogen storage kinetics of as-cast and spun (Mg24Ni10Cu2)100–x
Nd
x
(x = 0–20) alloys
Authors: Zhang Yanghuan , Yang Tai , Zhai Tingting , Yuan Zeming , Dong Xiaoping , Zhao Dongliang
Published: September 2014

(Mg24Ni10Cu2)100–x
Nd
x
(x = 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20) alloys with nanocrystalline and amorphous structures were prepared by melt-spinning. X-ray diffraction and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy reveal that the as-spun Nd-free alloy displays an entirely nanocrystalline structure, whereas the as-spun Nd15 alloy, differing from Nd0 alloy, exhibits nanocrystals embedded in an amorphous matrix. This suggests that the addition of Nd facilitates the amorphous formation ability of the alloys. Melt spinning significantly improves the gaseous and electrochemical hydrogen storage kinetics of the alloys. Furthermore, melt spinning enhances the diffusion ability of hydrogen atoms in the alloy, but it impairs the charge-transfer reaction on the surface of the alloy electrode, which gives rise to the high-rate dischargeability of the alloy electrode, first mounting up and then going down with the increase in spinning rate.
A study on the pseudoelasticity of low temperature aged and thermomechanically treated Ti-51.5 at.% Ni shape memory alloy
Authors: Karimzadeh Mehrdad , Aboutalebi Mohammad Reza , Salehi Mohammad Taghi , Abbasi Seyyed Mahdi , Morakabati Maryam
Published: September 2014

The aim of the present work is to investigate the effects of low temperature aging and thermomechanical treatments on the transformation and deformation behavior of an Ni-rich NiTi alloy. One sample of solution treated Ti-51.5 at.% Ni shape memory alloy was aged at 300°C for 1 hr. The other solution annealed sample, was firstly cold rolled to a reduction of 20% and then aged at 300°C for 1 hr. Applying these treatments, samples showed R-phase transformations in the absence of B19′ phase formation according to differential scanning calorimetry curves. By applying 20% cold reduction in area prior to aging, almost complete recovery of strain was observed and pseudoelasticity improved significantly compared to the conventional aged sample. Results of thermal analysis and tensile tests suggest that the observed pseudoelasticity for the thermomechanically treated sample can be due to stress-induced formation of R-phase. It is proposed that if stress-induced transformation of B19′ phase does not take place, stress-induced transformation of R-phase can extend to higher than 1% strain. Hence, pseudoelastic behavior due to this transformation can be observed.