bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Reheat Treatment on Microstructural Refurbishment and Hardness of the As-cast Inconel 738
Authors: Wongbunyakul Piyanut , Visuttipitukkul Patama , Wangyao Panyawat , Lothongkum Gobboon , Sricharoenchai Prasonk
Published: February 2014

This work investigates the effect of rejuvenation heat treatment conditions for refurbishment of the long-term serviced gas turbine blades, which were made of as-cast nickel base superalloy grade, Inconel 738. The reheat treatment conditions consist of solutionizing treatments at temperatures of 1,438, 1,458 and 1,478 K for 14.4 ks and aging treatments at temperatures of 1,133, 1,148 and 1,163 K for 43.2, 86.4, 129.6 and 172.8 ks. The results show that increase in aging times results in continuous increase of size and area fraction of gamma prime (γ′) particles. The higher solutionizing temperature leads to the lower area fraction and smaller size of gamma prime particles. Regarding the microstructure characteristics, the most proper reheat treatment condition should be solutionizing at temperature of 1,438 K for 14.4 ks and aging at temperature of 1,133 K for 172.8 ks, which provides the highest area fraction of gamma prime particles in proper size.
High Temperature Oxidation of Nickel-based Cermet Coatings Composed of Al2O3 and TiO2 Nanosized Particles
Authors: Farrokhzad M. A. , Khan T. I.
Published: February 2014

New technological challenges in oil production require materials that can resist high temperature oxidation. In-Situ Combustion (ISC) oil production technique is a new method that uses injection of air and ignition techniques to reduce the viscosity of bitumen in a reservoir and as a result crude bitumen can be produced and extracted from the reservoir. During the in-situ combustion process, production pipes and other mechanical components can be exposed to air-like gaseous environments at extreme temperatures as high as 700 °C. To protect or reduce the surface degradation of pipes and mechanical components used in in-situ combustion, the use of nickel-based ceramic-metallic (cermet) coating produced by co-electrodeposition of nanosized Al2O3 and TiO2 have been suggested and earlier research on these coatings have shown promising oxidation resistance against atmospheric oxygen and combustion gases at elevated temperatures. Co-electrodeposition of nickel-based cermet coatings is a low-cost method that has the benefit of allowing both internal and external surfaces of pipes and components to be coated during a single electroplating process. Research has shown that the volume fraction of dispersed nanosized Al2O3 and TiO2 particles in the nickel matrix which affects the oxidation resistance of the coating can be controlled by the concentration of these particles in the electrolyte solution, as well as the applied current density during electrodeposition. This paper investigates the high temperature oxidation behaviour of novel nanostructured cermet coatings composed of two types of dispersed nanosized ceramic particles (Al2O3 and TiO2) in a nickel matrix and produced by coelectrodeposition technique as a function of the concentration of these particles in the electrolyte solution and applied current density. For this purpose, high temperature oxidation tests were conducted in dry air for 96 hours at 700 °C to obtain mass changes (per unit of area) at specific time intervals. Statistical techniques as described in ASTM G16 were used to formulate the oxidation mass change as a function of time. The cross-section and surface of the oxidized coatings were examined for both visual and chemical analyses using wavelength dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (WDS) element mapping, X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The results showed that the volume fraction for each type of particle in the nickel matrix corresponded to its partial molar concentration in the electrolyte solutions. Increase in volume fraction of particles in the nickel matrix was correlated to lower oxidation rates. It was concluded that formation of Ni3TiO5 and NiTiO3 compounds can reduce the oxidation rate of cermet coatings by capturing some inward diffusing oxygen ions resulting in a lower number of nickel cations diffusing upward into the oxide layer.
Microstructure Evolution in Nb-12Si-22Ti-14Cr-2Al2Hf Alloy Fabricated by Directional Solidification
Authors: Su Linfen , Jia Lina , Yuan Sainan , Zhang Huarui , Zhang Hu
Published: February 2014

In this work, the microstructure evolution of the Nb-12Si-22Ti-14Cr-2Al-2Hf alloy (at.%) fabricated by liquidmetal-cooled directional solidification (LMC) was investigated and the solidification behaviors were discussed. The results revealed that the growth rate was of crucial in controlling the microstructure of this alloy and the higher growth rate was beneficial to the formation of metastable phase Nb3Si. The microstructure of non-melted region consisted of NbSS dendrites, NbSS/Nb5Si3 eutectics and Ti-rich NbSS/Cr2Nb eutectics while the microstructure of quasi-steady-state growth region of this alloy consisted of NbSS dendrites, Nb3Si laths and Ti-rich NbSS/Cr2Nb eutectic. Nb3Si had the advantage of nucleation at medium/high growth rate. Therefore, the microstructure evolution occurred in this study was owing to the increase of growth rate.
Electromagnetic Levitation of Silicon and Silicon-Iron Alloy Droplets
Authors: Wu Paul , Yang Yindong , Barati Mansoor , McLean Alex
Published: February 2014

In this paper, the design of an electromagnetic levitation system and a technique for non-conductive silicon heating and conductive silicon levitation is described. The aim of the work is to describe the various parameters including coil design, applied power and specimen weight that govern the temperature of levitated silicon and silicon-iron alloy droplets.
A New Constitutive Model for AZ31B Magnesium Alloy Sheet Deformed at Elevated Temperatures and Various Strain Rates
Authors: Nguyen Duc-Toan
Published: February 2014

In this study, a new constitutive model is established for AZ31B magnesium alloy sheet at elevated temperatures and strain rates in order to describe two competing mechanisms for deformation, i.e. both work-hardening and softening stage of AZ31B magnesium alloy sheet. Stress-strain curves obtained by conducting uni-axial tensile tests at elevated and strain rates were first separated at the maximum stress and corresponding strain values. Voce's law [25] was then employed to fit separated hardening and softening stage. A MATLAB tool is used to determine material parameters by using least square fitting method at various temperatures and strain rate. The mergence of separated work-hardening and softening equations is in good agreement with experimental data. The parameters of fitting curves are utilized to determine them as a function of temperature and strain rate using a surface fitting method. The final equation is then implemented to predict stress-strain curves at various temperatures and strain rates. The proposed equation showed the good comparability between the simulation results and the corresponding experiments.
Effect of Different Treatment on Corrosion Resistance of Sputtered Al Coating on Stainless Steel
Authors: Fu Guangyan , Qi Zeyan , Su Yong , Liu Qun , Guo Xingxing
Published: February 2014

Aluminum coating on 1Cr18Ni9Ti stainless steel was prepared by magnetron sputtering method. The specimens were treated with pre-oxidation (PO) or vacuum diffusion annealing (VA). Hot corrosion resistance of the coatings beneath the deposits of Na2SO4 at 1050 °C was investigated. Corrosion products were analyzed by XRD and SEM. Results show that the presence of coating could improve the corrosion resistance of stainless steel. FeAl phase appeared after VA at 600 °C, which enhanced cohesive force between the coating and the substrate, and reduced the oxidation and sulfidation rate. PO treatment can protect the substrate more effectively than VA treatment for metastable Al2O3 formed during PO treatment can be translated to stable Al2O3 more quickly at high temperatures. The corrosion products of the two kinds of specimens with aluminum coating were both composed of Al2O3, a little amount of FeS and Fe2O3 after 24 h corrosion. Al2O3 was formed mainly in the coatings, FeS was mainly distributed in the interface between coating and substrate of the specimens, and a small amount of FeS was distributed in the substrate. Al2O3 film remained intact after 24 h corrosion, and kept its protective effect on the substrate.
Health profile of urban adolescent girls from India
Authors: Madaan Monika , Agrawal Swati , Puri Manju , Meena Jyoti , Kaur Harvinder , Trivedi Shubha Sagar
Published: February 2014

Context: Adolescents comprise 22.5% of the population, which forms a significant part of the entire population. It is only recently that we have acknowledged the need for a separate specialty to handle adolescent problems and ailments.

Aims: The aim of the present study is to study the health profile of the adolescents girls presenting to the tertiary care hospital situated in New Delhi, India.

Materials and methods: The study was conducted on 316 adolescent girls who presented to the adolescent clinic at Smt Sucheta Kriplani Hospital, New Delhi. Apart from recording the various health problems to which they presented, a detailed HEADSS assessment was done for each case.

Results: Majority of the adolescents (60.74%) presented with menstrual problems, 78.48% discussed their problems with their parents, and 91.77% agreed on common things with them. About 69.62% were attending school or college, while 30.37% had either left or never attended school. Majority of the adolescents (77.84%) had only a few friends, 62.96% watched TV in their free time, and only 7.27% performed regular exercise. In addition, 0.94% adolescents in the study group were married. Among the 313 unmarried adolescents, 3.83% were dating and 4.47% were sexually active. There was a low incidence of teenage pregnancy (0.94%) reported in the unmarried study population. History of contraceptive use was present in only 1.26% cases, and only 5.06% of the adolescents had knowledge of HIV.

Conclusions: Adolescent health must be viewed with a comprehensive approach comprising of social, mental, physical and emotional aspects. The active involvement of the entire society, including parents and teachers, must also be encouraged towards the healthy development of adolescents.
The Cauchy problem for the heat equation with a random right side
Authors: Kozachenko Yuriy V. , Slyvka-Tylyshchak Anna I.
Published: February 2014

In this paper the heat equation with a random right side is examined. In particular,
we give conditions for the existence of solutions
in the case when the right side is a random field, sample continuous with
probability one from the space

L
p

(
Ω
)

$L_{p}(\Omega )$

. Estimations for the distribution of the supremum of solutions
of such equations are found.
Characterizing the Dosimetric Properties of MEH-PPV Using Thermoluminescence (TL)
Authors: Ortiz-Morales Alejandro , Gómez-Aguilar Ramón , Ortiz-Lopez Jaime , Cruz-Zaragoza Epifanio
Published: February 2014

The thermoluminiscent properties of MEH-PPV and MDMO-PPV conjugated polymers were studied in order to verify if they are suitable for use as TL dosimeter. The dose response that was analyzed cover the wide dose range 0.34-5.44 kGy. The measured glow curves show complex structures which were evaluated with kinetic parameters based on the MO (Mix Order) model together with the CGCD (Computerized Glow Curve Deconvolution) homemade program which is useful to understand the mechanisms responsible for TL emission.
Impact of Natural and Synthetic Nanofibres Presence in Polymeric Composites on Mechanical Properties
Authors: Seidl Martin , Bobek Jiří , Habr Jiří , Lenfeld Petr , Běhálek Luboš
Published: February 2014

This study deals with evaluation of mechanical properties (tensile, flexural and impact strength), that verified reinforcing potential of nanofibres in polymeric composites and their applicability in dependence on the filler content of nanofibres of natural and synthetic origin. Considering the hydrophilic nature of natural nanofibres and hydrophobic polypropylene matrix was applied chemical modification that ensures effective interlock of nanofibres with the matrix, namely maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene and ionic modifier. Polymeric nanocomposites were prepared by twin screw extrusion that made possible mixing of all three components together. After cooling in water bath the composites were cut on pellets and dried for further injection moulding. The specimens were made of two- or three-phase component systems that included PP matrix, coupling agent in the volume of 4 wt.% and reinforcing nanofillers in the volume of 2, 4 and 6 wt.%. The presence of nanoparticles and coupling agents had not unambiguous impact on analysed mechanical properties. Coupling agent presence was dominant for impact strength, however, flexural and tensile properties were influenced mainly by the nanofiller type and origin. The dispersed phase and compatibilizer improved flexural modulus but tensile modulus of pure PP were not achieved by three-phase composite, not even with the highest analysed nanoparticle load. Cellulose fibres proved as more proper than the synthetic ones not only for their biodegradability and renewability but for their better toughness as well.
Nucleation Rate of Capillary Bridges Between Multi-Asperity Surfaces
Authors: Soylemez Emrecan , de Boer Maarten P. , Ashurst W. Robert
Published: February 2014

A microcantliever based crack healing experiment is described and utilized in order to study the capillary nucleation rate for typical MEMS surfaces. An advanced test chamber that allows exquisite environmental control is also described and used in this study. Crack healing experiments prove to be a viable experimental technique to investigate the dynamics of capillary nucleation. The effective capillary nucleation time for the multi-asperity surface of microcantilever samples appears to increase logarithmically with adhesion energy.
High Performance IGZO TFTs with Modified Etch Stop Structure on Glass Substrates
Authors: Mahmoudabadi Forough , Chuang Ta-Ko , Kung Jerry Ho , Hatalis Miltiadis K.
Published: February 2014

In this paper, we present fabrication and characterization of RF sputtered a-IGZO TFTs having a modified etch stopper structure with source/drain contact windows on glass wafers. The effect of annealing time and channel length on device performance in terms of mobility, on/off current ratio, average off current, threshold voltage, and sub threshold slope is reported.
Impact of solar upconversion on photovoltaic cell efficiency: optical models of state-of-the-art solar cells with upconverters
Authors: Kozinsky Inna , Yeng Yi Xiang , Huang Yao
Published: February 2014

Current photovoltaic technologies harvest only a fraction of incoming solar energy since they are unable to utilize photons with energies below the cell band gap. Placed behind a solar cell, the upconverter converts transmitted low-energy photons to photons with energies higher than the cell band gap. The higher energy photons are absorbed by the solar cell and contribute to the photocurrent. We developed optical models of several state-of-the-art commercial and research thin-film solar cells incorporating the upconversion layer. We present both analytical models based on published EQE data as well as detailed finite difference time domain (FDTD) models that incorporate absorption in all cell layers. We model the improvement in absorption and overall cell performance of amorphous Si, CIGS, GaAs, CdTe, and Cu2O cells with upconverting layers. We incorporate and discuss the effect of interface texture and different cell layers on the absorption of upconverted photons and make suggestions for improving the overall cell design to get the maximum benefit from upconversion. We estimate that the cell efficiency enhancement can range from 0.5% to up to 5% absolute depending on the cell type and upconversion efficiency. This work connects to the fundamental efficiency limit analysis of narrow-bandwidth solar upconversion by our collaborators [1], but presents concrete optical models of current solar cells and discusses the promise of upconversion for particular applications.
CdSe/ZnS Quantum Dot-to-ZnO Nanowires Charge Transfer Dynamics for Enhanced Efficiency Quantum Dot-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Sadeghimakki Bahareh , Jahed Navid Mohammad Sadeghi. , Janfeshan Bita , Dashmiz Shadi , Sivoththaman Siva
Published: February 2014

Core-shell quantum dots (QDs) with enhanced photostability compared with bare QDs are promising light absorbers for solar cell applications. In this work, electron injection from excited CdSe/ZnS QDs to Zinc Oxide (ZnO) nanowires (NWs) prepared by two techniques were demonstrated. Arrays of ZnO NWs were fabricated by hydrothermal growth and etching. ZnO NWs were sensitized with hydrophobically ligated colloidal CdSe/ZnS QDs. The electron transfer dynamic in QD/ZnO NW architecture was examined using photoluminescence (PL) and decay lifetime analyses. The quenching of the QD emission peak and lowered average lifetime in QD/ZnO NW architecture confirms the deactivation of the excited QDs via electron transfer to ZnO NWs. Electron transfer was enhanced by using smaller QDs. This study provides insight on charge transfer dynamics at the QD/ZnO NW interface in order to engineer high performance quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs).
CdS and Cd-Free Buffer Layers on Solution Phase Grown Cu2ZnSn(SxSe1- x)4 :Band Alignments and Electronic Structure Determined with Femtosecond Ultraviolet Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Authors: Haight Richard , Barkhouse Aaron , Wang Wei , Luo Yu , Shao Xiaoyan , Mitzi David B. , Hiroi Homare , Sugimoto Hiroki
Published: February 2014

The heterojunctions formed between solution phase grown Cu2ZnSn(SxSe1- x)4 (CZTS,Se) and a number of important buffer materials including CdS, ZnS, ZnO, and In2S3, were studied using femtosecond ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy (fs-UPS) and photovoltage spectroscopy. With this approach we extract the magnitude and direction of the CZTS,Se band bending, locate the Fermi level within the band gaps of absorber and buffer and measure the absorber/buffer band offsets under flatband conditions. We will also discuss two-color pump/probe experiments in which the band bending in the buffer layer can be independently determined. Finally, studies of the bare CZTS,Se surface will be discussed including our observation of mid-gap Fermi level pinning and its relation to Voc limitations and bulk defects.
Raman Spectroscopy in Group IV Nanowires and Nanowire Axial Heterostructures
Authors: Anaya J. , Torres A. , Jiménez J. , Rodríguez A. , Rodríguez T. , Ballesteros C.
Published: February 2014

The control of the SiGe NW composition is fundamental for the fabrication of high quality heterostructures. Raman spectroscopy has been used to analyse the composition of SiGe alloys. We present a study of the Raman spectrum of SiGe nanowires and SiGe/Si heterostructures. The inhomogeneity of the Ge composition deduced from the Raman spectrum is explained by the existence of a Ge-rich outer shell and by the interaction of the NW with the electromagnetic field associated with the laser beam.
Arguments Against Mammography Screening Continue to be Based on Faulty Science
Authors: Kopans Daniel B.
Published: February 2014

Each year there are now more than 30% fewer deaths from breast cancer than there would have been had screening not been initiated. Therapy has improved, but treatment saves lives when breast cancer is found earlier. Analysts who have claimed that excess cancer detection is indicative of overdiagnosis have ignored the fundamentals.
Were Our Estimates of Overdiagnosis With Mammography Screening  in the United States “Based on Faulty Science”?
Authors: Bleyer Archie
Published: February 2014

The author responds to criticisms that his and his coauthor's estimates of overdiagnoses with mammography screening are “based on faulty science” by reviewing the statistical analyses and comparing global data with those of Connecticut.
Alendronate‐Associated Osteonecrosis of the Hard Palate After Harvesting of a Connective Tissue Graft: A Case Report
Authors: Brooks John K. , Kleinman Justin W. , Younis Rania H. , Reynolds Mark A.
Published: February 2014

Introduction: Much attention has been given to the development of osteonecrosis of the jaws, concomitant with a history of bisphosphonate usage, particularly regarding inciting dental procedures. This report describes a case of bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the hard palate after the harvesting of a subepithelial connective tissue (CT) graft for treatment of gingival recession (GR) in the mandible.

Case Presentation: A 60‐year‐old female sought periodontal therapy for GR. Her medical history revealed the use of alendronate for osteopenia, hypothyroidism, sulfa allergy, and >18 regimens of steroid formulations (oral, inhaled, and topical) for various upper respiratory and dermatologic disorders. The hard palate was selected as the donor site for the subepithelial CT graft. At a 4‐month postoperative evaluation, osteonecrosis was evident in the palatal site. Successful clinical outcome was achieved after conservative debridement, antibiotics, and use of chlorhexidine gluconate.

Conclusions: It is advised that a patient's medical history include current and past intake of bisphosphonates and comorbidities that could predispose to the development of osteonecrosis of the jaws. Attempts should be instituted to achieve primary wound closure of the donor site in patients who have taken bisphosphonates. Postoperative follow‐up of the donor site of CT grafts should continue for at least 6 months for surveillance of bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis.
Warm-up with Weighted Bat and Adjustment of Upper Limb Muscle Activity in Bat Swinging under Movement Correction Conditions
Authors: Ohta Yoichi , Ishii Yasumitsu , Ikudome Sachi , Nakamoto Hiroki
Published: February 2014

The effects of weighted bat warm-up on adjustment of upper limb muscle activity were investigated during baseball bat swinging under dynamic conditions that require a spatial and temporal adjustment of the swinging to hit a moving target. Seven male college baseball players participated in this study. Using a batting simulator, the task was to swing the standard bat coincident with the arrival timing and position of a moving target after three warm-up swings using a standard or weighted bat. There was no significant effect of weighted bat warm-up on muscle activity before impact associated with temporal or spatial movement corrections. However, lower inhibition of the extensor carpi ulnaris muscle activity was observed in a velocity-changed condition in the weighted bat warm-up, as compared to a standard bat warm-up. It is suggested that weighted bat warm-up decreases the adjustment ability associated with inhibition of muscle activation under movement correction conditions.
Effect of Osteoarthritis on Accuracy of Continuous Tracking Leg Movement
Authors: Williamson Elizabeth Mae , Marshall Philip H.
Published: February 2014

The purpose of this study was to establish if osteoarthritis in older adults was associated with ability to accurately and continuously track leg movement in a model of therapy to improve age-related impairments of proprioception, kinesthesia, and coordination of muscles at the knee joint. 24 older adults without osteoarthritis and 24 older adults with osteoarthritis participated. Software generated a moving, on-screen sine wave and a vertically traveling disc. Participants attempted to keep the disc on the sine wave by bending and straightening the leg. Older adults without osteoarthritis performed better than older adults with osteoarthritis in one of two conditions. There was a relationship between osteoarthritis and reduced accuracy of leg movement. Further research will be required to specifically define this relationship and to establish if such interventions to improve accuracy of knee movement will positively affect functional capabilities of individuals with osteoarthritis.
Development of performance management reforms in Lithuanian public sector
Authors: Kaselis Mindaugas
Published: February 2014

The article presents result-based performance management in the public sector and challenges for its formation. The attention is paid to the fact that despite the managerial character, this is a perspective with political implications. Before the result-based performance management in Lithuania is analyzed, the American experience has been presented, where almost each new administration of the President (since President Lyndon B. Johnson) has introduced systemic novelties with regard to the development of management on the federal level. Lastly, qualitative research data is used to present the attitudes of Lithuanian civil servants and politicians to the components of performance management, while the programmes of the political parties for the Lithuanian Seimas (Parliament) in 2012-2016 help to reveal the attitudes of the present party in power towards the components of performance management.
Local public transport planning in Poland - geographical input
Authors: Chaberko Tomasz , Kretowicz Paweł
Published: February 2014

This paper concentrates on geographical contribution to public transport planning in Poland with a special regard to transport services of general interest. The authors draw on the newly enacted Polish legislative acts concerning public transportation: the Act of 16 December 2010 on public transport and the Regulation of 25 May 2011 on the detailed scope of sustainable development plan of public transport. According to these legal acts, authorities of the largest local and regional governments in Poland are obliged to prepare public transport plans by March 2014. In order to provide useful guidelines that would ameliorate the preparation of public transportation plans by these authorities, the authors demonstrate some effective examples of geographical analyses utilising sample cases of a medium-sized city (Gdynia) and a medium-sized poviat (Krosno poviat). The authors explain how to delineate the network of public transport of general interest in these administrative units along with route categorisation. Additionally, some principles of the city area division into public transportation sectors - a spatial unit facilitating public transport planning - are presented on the example of Gdynia.
Selected aspects of permanent emigration from Poland (2001-2010)
Authors: Długosz Zbigniew , Biały Szymon
Published: February 2014

The purpose of the paper is to describe permanent emigration from Poland during the first decade of the 21st century. This period of time was characterised by major political and economic changes in Poland and elsewhere in the world. The paper is based on data obtained from the GUS Demographic Yearbook for the years prior to 2011. The spatial analysis in the paper is based on the current administrative division of Poland - voivodships. This includes the number of migrants and their demographic and social structure. Finally, the paper addresses the direction of migrant flow in terms of absolute numbers and rates of change.
Russia’s role in the official peace process in South Ossetia
Authors: Hoch Tomáš , Souleimanov Emil , Baranec Tomáš
Published: February 2014

The aim of this article is to analyse the role of Russia in the transformation of the Georgian-Ossetian conflict and analyse this important period in the history of the Caucasus, where Georgia and its secessionist region of South Ossetia have been trying to find a peaceful solution to their post-war situation. Major milestones of the official peace process are set in the context of Russian-Georgian relations. We then proceed to the analysis of the internal changes within the Russian Federation at the turn of the millennium and try to find a connection between this internal transformation of Russia and the transformation of the conflict in South Ossetia. The most important factors behind the more assertive approach by the Russian Federation towards Georgia in the last decade are considered: internal centralisation of power and economic growth of the Russian Federation, the reinforcement of the importance of the South Caucasus as part of the geopolitical discourse within the Russian Federation, the deterioration in Russian-Georgian relations, and the suppression of the fear of the spill-over effect since the end of Second Chechen War.
Traditional education system: its impact on socio-economic development in Mewat District, Haryana, India
Authors: Ishtiaque Mohammad , Hurera Abu
Published: February 2014

Madarsa education is very common among the Muslims in India. Hundreds of thousands of Muslim children acquire their primary, and perhaps the only, formal education in these madarsas with a cursory knowledge of modern education. As a result they are lagging behind in science education and their representation and participation in the scientific activity of the country is woefully low. As such they are unable to earn sufficiently to lead a comfortable life and provide proper leadership to their community to face the challenges of the modern world. The purpose of the present study is to analyse whether madarsa education becomes a barrier in promoting modern and higher education and secondly how far these institutions helped improve socio-economic conditions of madarsa trained persons in the District of Mewat (Haryana). In the absence of secondary data, the present study is based on the primary data collected through both extensive and intensive field work. A total of 2,350 households were surveyed and information regarding demographic, socio-economic and environmental conditions of these households was collected. Such a varied nature of data was assigned weightage according to their importance and finally the composite score was calculated to find out the levels of the socio-economic conditions of madarsa trained persons.
Current analysis of orcharding in the Isparta Province (Turkey)
Authors: Sargin Sevil , Okudum Ramazan
Published: February 2014

In this study, orcharding activity in the Isparta Province, Turkey, is analysed. Until a few years ago, the economy of Isparta was associated with hand carpet weaving, rose-growing and rose-oil extraction. However, over the last few years orcharding has attracted attention as the most important economic activity in Isparta. This is especially visible in the districts of Eğirdir, Gelendost, Senirkent and Yalvac where many kinds of fruits, specifically apples and cherries, are grown for the market. Physical geography features of Isparta have an important potential for developing orcharding. Suitable climatic conditions, fertile soils and fresh water resources, both surface and underground, are distinctive elements of this potential. In addition, irrigation projects, modern agricultural techniques, quality and resistible fruit types, appropriate fertilisation, pruning and disinfecting are human activities effecting the development of orcharding. Moreover, establishing modern and high capacity cold stores nearby the areas where fruits are grown is regarded an important factor increasing the value of Isparta fruits on the national and international markets. Thus, developing commercial orcharding in Isparta is gaining importance as a profitable activity as well as an opportunity for rural population for employment in fruit picking, storing, packaging and transporting. The emphasis of this study is put on current development of orcharding, distribution of apple, cherry, grape and other fruits production, reasons for this distribution and problems associated with orcharding in Isparta. Besides formal data collection, the findings obtained during field studies in Boğazova as well as on the Uluborlu-Senirkent and Gelendost Plains enable the authors to conclude that orcharding has become the most important rural activity in the region.
New towns in Poland
Authors: Sokołowski Dariusz
Published: February 2014

Over the last three decades, more than a hundred new towns have emerged in Poland. The paper concerns the characteristics of these towns. It also addresses transformation of the settlement pattern caused by the change of the towns’ formal-legal status. The paper also verifies the hypotheses aimed at identifying the factors that contribute to the creation of new towns.
No Synonyms: Global Governance and the Transnational Public
Authors: Hancic Maja Turnšek
Published: February 2014

Building on the classical literature of the public, the article critically analyses the current literature on global governance. After briefly presenting the classical understanding of the public the author goes on to argue that in global governance the effectiveness of collective problem-solving is seen as a compensation for its lack of inclusiveness which in turn makes it impossible to equate global governance with (transnational) public. The author criticizes the substitution of the term “the public” by “stakeholders” since the notion of stakeholders allows for economically powerful voices to intervene in public decision-making processes. The article furthermore criticizes ideas on global governance as “strong publics” on the basis that even if the decision-making seen in global governance was to follow the ideal of rational deliberation, this would not make it equal to the transnational publics, since the deliberations of transnational “strong publics” are per definition exclusive in nature.
Genetic Knowledge and Genetic Reproduction Technologies as New Modes of Governance – are We Witnessing a New Form of Eugenics?
Authors: Barberić Lara
Published: February 2014

This article aims to examine whether there is continuity between eugenics as employed in Nazi Germany and modern-day medical genetics. Drawing on Foucault’s conceptualization of the relationship between power and knowledge, it draws the conclusion that despite the differences in the means employed and underlying motivations, both may serve as disciplinary tools and shape human behaviour. Finally, it addresses ethical issues that arise during genetic reproduction counselling. Namely, it reviews how genetic information during genetic reproduction counselling is presented to those being counselled and puts forward the idea on how to stay committed to the principle of non-directiveness.
Societal implication and challenges of demographic change – some introductory remarks
Authors: Černič-Mali Barbara , Koch Andreas , Koch Madeleine
Published: February 2014

This introduction into the special issue of European Countryside describes the need to move from knowledge to action and from simplification to complexification in contemporary discourses about demographic change. While the first movement arguably refers to the contributions of this issue the latter is a plea towards more specification and differentiation when investigating and assessing phenomena of demographic change.
The Austrian social festival Keep the Ball Rolling in a peripheral region of Upper Styria
Authors: Gstach Isabell
Published: February 2014

The “Steirische Eisenstraße” is a region located in the province of Styria in Austria, which has been struggling with a massive shift in population and age structure for some time. In 2012/13 the Austrian social festival Keep the Ball Rolling is taking place in this region. Over a period of 18 months, the social festival is providing opportunities to think of their own environment. Consequently, they can develop and implement ideas for good cohabitation and put these into practice. The main focus of this article is the demographic presentation of the “Steirische Eisenstraße” region, according to population, employment and age structure. The introduction of the social festival is fundamental in initiating successful change processes.
Spatio-Temporal Analysis of Sheep and Goats Grazing in Different Forage Resources of Northern Greece
Authors: Evangelou Christakis , Yiakoulaki Maria , Papanastasis Vasilios
Published: February 2014

Grazing animals explore different forage resources to satisfy their daily nutrient needs, following specific spatial and temporal patterns throughout the year. In this study four different flocks of sheep and goats (two of each species) were selected to record their spatial location with a handheld GPS during spring, summer and winter. At the same time, three animals in each flock were followed to study their grazing activities by direct observation. These data with the time information and a detailed land use map were manipulated in a GIS to assign animal activities to different forage resources. Sheep and goats were travelling long distances (7.5 km and 9.0 km, respectively) to satisfy their nutritional needs throughout the year. They were found to graze in two main forage resources, rangelands (grasslands, shrublands and forest ranges) and agricultural land (fallow land, stubble fields and temporary pastures). Both grazer species spent significantly less time (P≤ 0.05) feeding in rangelands (38.9% & 18.1%) than in agricultural land (63.6% & 53.4%) during spring and summer. It appears that a heterogeneous landscape is necessary for supporting extensive farming systems of small ruminants since rangelands and agricultural land complement each other in providing forage throughout the year.
Steppe-Like Grass Land Vegetation in the Hills around the Lakes of Vegoritida and Petron, North-Central Greece
Authors: Pirini Chrisoula B. , Tsiripidis Ioannis , Bergmeier Erwin
Published: February 2014

The present paper describes the floristic composition and synecology of steppe-like dry grasslands occurring in a Natura 2000 site in North-Central Greece around the two karstic lakes of Vegoritida and Petron. In total, 245 releves of vascular plant species composition and abundance were sampled and subjected to cluster analysis and ordination analysis. Passive explanatory variables, including environmental parameters as well as indicator values, were used to support the ecological interpretation. Four plant communities were distinguished in the area, namely Artemisia campestris-Dasypyrum villosum, Chrysopogon gryllus-Bothriochloa ischaemum, Satureja montana-Artemisia alba and Stipa capillata-Koeleria macrantha. All communities were classified within the Festuco-Brometea class and the Astragalo-Potentilletalia order. Soil properties (soil reaction, moisture and nutrient content) and meso-climate factors (temperature variation along topographic gradients) were identified as the main factors determining the floristic differentiation among the four communities.

The dry grasslands harbor a number of species associated with steppic habitats. We discuss the relict character of the steppe-like vegetation.
Management Regimes within Syntaxa of Semi-Natural Grasslands in West Bulgaria
Authors: Velev Nikolay , Vassilev Kiril
Published: February 2014

This study focuses on mesic and xeric grasslands of mostly secondary origin, and that are influenced by human activity. Mesic grasslands are traditionally used for hay-making, and xeric ones for pastures. Over the last 20 years, livestock farming in Bulgaria has significantly declined so that less grass is needed. Many types of grasslands are no longer used and lots of abandoned fields can be found nowadays in Bulgaria. The analyses in this study are based on 868 releves collected on xeric and mesic grasslands according to the methodological approach of Braun- Blanquet. As a result, five alliances within two classes are recognized: the class Festuco-Brometea, represented by three alliances, namely Cirsio-Brachypodion pinnati, Chrysopogono-Danthonion calycinae and Festucion valesiacae, and the class Molinio-Arrhenatheretea, represented by two alliances, namely Arrhenatherion elatioris and Cynosurion cristati. The majority of the managed grasslands are situated in close proximity to settlements. Most of the abandoned areas (30%) are found within Cirsio-Brachypodion alliance. These grasslands are characterized by the highest values of total cover of vegetation. They are located in the most distant and least accessible areas. If use is not resumed, all the abandoned grasslands will be under threat of extinction in the near future. At the same time, many arable lands have been abandoned and turned into grasslands by the processes of secondary succession.
Studies On The Genus Atriplex (Chenopodiaceae) In Italy. Vi. Names By Michele Tenore: Atriplex Axillaris, A. Diffusa, And A. Polysperma
Authors: Iamonico Duilio , Sukhorukov Alexander P.
Published: February 2014

The typification of the names Atriplex axillaris, A. polysperma (both names are synonyms of A. rosea L.), and A. diffusa (synonymized with A. tatarica here) is discussed. Specimens from Tenore’s collection (NAP) and from De Candolle’s collection (G-DC) are respectively designated as the lectotypes of A. diffusa and A. axillaris, while one collection from NAP is designated as the neotype for the name A. polysperma.
Arunco-Salicetum Capreae – Where Is Its Syntaxonomical Position?
Authors: Petrášová Mária , Jarolímek Ivan
Published: February 2014

Presented study is focused on the syntaxonomical revision and correct classification of the associations Arunco- Salicetum capreae and Filipendulo-Salicetum capreae. The associations were described by Hadač et al. (1969) from the Dolina Siedmich prameňov Valley in the Belianske Tatry Mts. The association Arunco-Salicetum capreae was emended by Šomšák (1986) by including the new subassociation from the Slovenské rudohorie Mts. Hadač et al. (1969) and Šomšák (1986) preliminarily ordered these associations within the class Querco-Fagetea, order Fagetalia, and alliance Alnion incanae. Later authors (Mucina & Maglocký 1985, Jarolímek & Šibík 2008) ordered them into two different classes. We used numerical analyses (hierarchical clustering and detrended correspondence analysis) of 1056 relevés from floristically and ecologically similar syntaxonomical units to classify the associations within higher syntaxa and to find out whether there is a reason to distinguish two associations from such a small geographic area. Based on the analysis results we merged both studied associations into one association Arunco vulgaris-Salicetum capreae Hadač et al. ex Petrášová et Jarolímek, ass. nova, which we ordered to the suballiance Alnenion glutinoso-incanae.
FORECASTING OF SAFETY TRANSPORT BY EXTREME STATISTICS / PROGNOZOWANIE BEZPIECZEŃSTWA OBIEKTÓW TRANSPORTOWYCH METODAMI STATYSTYKI EKSTREMALNEJ
Authors: Igor Arefyev , Аleksandr Volovik , Аleksandr Klavdiev
Published: February 2014

Recently, the transport problem is acute to minimize accidents and disasters, caused by the failure of the functional elements. Today it is still not a fully developed theory of the solution of such problems. The authors propose an approach to perform this task, based on the methodology of extreme statistics and information Janes principle. Example given in the article and the calculations prove this possibility, up to an extreme level of statistical sampling, when it reaches capacity. The method allows for a decision on a sample survey, when the nature of the distribution is not known anything other than the expectation of a random variable.
SAFETY OF CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURES - CHOSEN MODELING STUDIES OF ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE ELEMENTS / BEZPIECZEŃSTWO INFRASTRUKTURY KRYTYCZNEJ – WYBRANE BADANIA MODELOWE ELEMENTÓW INFRASTRUKTURY ENERGETYCZNEJ
Authors: Jerzy Małachowski , Tadeusz Niezgoda
Published: February 2014

This research has been inspired by security concerns due to the recent increase in the terrorist threat to gas and crude oil transportation around the world, especially in regions that are of significant value for the energy supplies. Computational mechanics methods will be used in this research to apply shock wave analysis for possible damage assessment of the affected pipelines. These methods may be also used for pipelines at power plants, which are usually placed high on the homeland security priority list. This study is primarily focused on the behaviour of some type of pipeline elements existing in gas pipeline system which can be subjected to the shock wave produced by the detonation of highly explosive (HE) materials. In this kind of studies the numerical coupling procedure describing interaction between gas and solid domain was implemented. Outcomes of this research are very important in preventing damage progression of pipelines under the blast loading.
NUMERICAL ASSESSMENT OF THE SELECTED SUPPORTING ELEMENT CARRYING CAPACITY OF CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE FACILITY / SZACOWANIE NUMERYCZNE NOŚNOŚCI WYBRANEGO ELEMENTU KONSTRUKCYJNEGO OBIEKTU INFRASTRUKTURY KRYTYCZNEJ
Authors: Małachowski Jerzy , Klasztorny Marian , Mazurkiewicz Łukasz , Kołodziejczyk Damian , Niezgoda Tadeusz
Published: February 2014

Issues related to critical infrastructure safety is highly demanding in aspect of newly projected systems. In this paper a problem of modeling and simulation of the supporting structure behavior of critical facility (without or with proposed protective cover) loaded with a shock wave is presented. Authors assume that two different phenomena will be responsible for minimization of shock wave effects: flow around cylindrical panel and energy absorption by panel structure. In this paper research focuses on the description and analysis of the process of explosion near the supporting elements and the blast interaction with the structure.
MODELING OF HYDRAULIC CYLINDER PISTON ROD SEALING / MODELOWANIE USZCZELNIENIA TŁOCZYSKA SIŁOWNIKA HYDRAULICZNEGO
Authors: Edward Lisowski , Michał Hawryluk
Published: February 2014

The paper is related to research on leakage of a piston rod U-type elastomeric sealing ring. Results of FE analysis and the test rig for verification of the simulation results is presented. For the analysis ANSYS system was used. The achieved results allow to predict leakage rate for different operating conditions and can also be useful in studies concerning wearing processes of elastomeric sealing rings.
CONCEPT OF THE DATA TRANSMISSION SECURITY IN THE MOBILE DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM / KONCEPCJA ZABEZPIECZENIA TRANSMISJI DANYCH W MOBILNYM SYSTEMIE DIAGNOSTYCZNYM
Authors: Bednarek Marcin , Dąbrowski Dąbrowski
Published: February 2014

The concept of security data transmission in a mobile diagnostic system composed of the process stations (remote parts of the supervising and therapeutic system) and the operator station (local part of the supervising and therapeutic system) is presented. Process stations are connected to the operator station via radio modems. It allows the installation in mobile facilities. Communication between stations is realized via wireless access points. The examples of the application of the presented issues in mobile systems, as well as the potentially locations of the security risks of transmission are given. The possible options for secure communications are described. The assumptions of the concept of a secure communication in the diagnostic system are explained.
ANALYSIS OF THE RESULTS OF VEHICLES DAMAGES / ANALIZA WYNIKÓW BADAŃ USZKADZALNOŚCI POJAZDÓW SAMOCHODOWYCH
Authors: Feliczak Grzegorz
Published: February 2014

This article contains information about issues of vehicles damages (failure). Presents selected organization dealing with research in vehicles damages. For example, an analysis of selected results of research conducted and published by the selected organizations, including websites, showing similarities and differences. It also indicated the need for harmonization of research and the creation of a universal method for testing and analysis of this issue.
SELECTION OPERATOR’S INTERFACE FOR UNMANNED ENGINEERING MACHINE / DOBÓR INTERFEJSU OPERATORA DLA BEZZAŁOGOWEJ MASZYNY INŻYNIERYJNEJ
Authors: Bartnicki Adam , Typiak Andrzej , Typiak Rafał
Published: February 2014

Effective execution of tasks by remote-controlled engineering machine is dependent on the ability to run a way the machine operator. This is possible through the development an interface for remote both manipulation and perception. The paper presents results of elaboration of two types of interface. Portable desktop machine to control the implementation of ad-hoc tasks and landline operator position to achieve long-term jobs that require precise control of two-piece machine equipment: manipulator and loading.