bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exemplary multiplex bisulfite amplicon data used to demonstrate the utility of Methpat
Authors: Wong Nicholas C. , Pope Bernard J. , Candiloro Ida , Korbie Darren , Trau Matt , Wong Stephen Q. , Mikeska Thomas , van Denderen Bryce J. W. , Thompson Erik W. , Eggers Stefanie , Doyle Stephen R. , Dobrovic Alexander
Published: November 2015

Background

DNA methylation is a complex epigenetic marker that can be analyzed using a wide variety of methods. Interpretation and visualization of DNA methylation data can mask complexity in terms of methylation status at each CpG site, cellular heterogeneity of samples and allelic DNA methylation patterns within a given DNA strand. Bisulfite sequencing is considered the gold standard, but visualization of massively parallel sequencing results remains a significant challenge.

Findings

We created a program called Methpat that facilitates visualization and interpretation of bisulfite sequencing data generated by massively parallel sequencing. To demonstrate this, we performed multiplex PCR that targeted 48 regions of interest across 86 human samples. The regions selected included known gene promoters associated with cancer, repetitive elements, known imprinted regions and mitochondrial genomic sequences. We interrogated a range of samples including human cell lines, primary tumours and primary tissue samples. Methpat generates two forms of output: a tab-delimited text file for each sample that summarizes DNA methylation patterns and their read counts for each amplicon, and a HTML file that summarizes this data visually. Methpat can be used with publicly available whole genome bisulfite sequencing and reduced representation bisulfite sequencing datasets with sufficient read depths.

Conclusions

Using Methpat, complex DNA methylation data derived from massively parallel sequencing can be summarized and visualized for biological interpretation. By accounting for allelic DNA methylation states and their abundance in a sample, Methpat can unmask the complexity of DNA methylation and yield further biological insight in existing datasets.
Antiretroviral therapy in HIV-1-infected individuals with CD4 count below 100 cells/mm3 results in differential recovery of monocyte activation
Authors: Patro Sean C , Azzoni Livio , Joseph Jocelin , Fair Matthew G , Sierra-Madero Juan G , Rassool Mohammed S , Sanne Ian , Montaner Luis J
Published: November 2015

Reversal of monocyte and macrophage activation and the relationship to viral suppression and T cell activation are unknown in patients with advanced HIV-1 infection, initiating antiretroviral therapy. This study aimed to determine whether reduction in biomarkers of monocyte and macrophage activation would be reduced in conjunction with viral suppression and resolution of T cell activation. Furthermore, we hypothesized that the addition of CCR5 antagonism (by maraviroc) would mediate greater reduction of monocyte/macrophage activation markers than suppressive antiretroviral therapy alone. In the CCR5 antagonism to decrease the incidence of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome study, antiretroviral therapy-naïve patients received maraviroc or placebo in addition to standard antiretroviral therapy. PBMCs and plasma from 65 patients were assessed during 24 wk of antiretroviral therapy for biomarkers of monocyte and macrophage activation. Markers of monocyte and macrophage activation were reduced significantly by 24 wk, including CD14++CD16+ intermediate monocytes (P < 0.0001), surface CD163 (P = 0.0004), CD169 (P < 0.0001), tetherin (P = 0.0153), and soluble CD163 (P < 0.0001). A change in CD38+, HLA-DR+ CD8 T cells was associated with changes in CD169 and tetherin expression. Maraviroc did not affect biomarkers of monocyte/macrophage activation but resulted in greater percentages of CCR5-positive monocytes in PBMC. HIV-1 suppression after 24 wk of antiretroviral therapy, with or without maraviroc, demonstrates robust recovery in monocyte subset activation markers, whereas soluble markers of activation demonstrate minimal decrease, qualitatively differentiating markers of monocyte/macrophage activation in advanced disease.
Seismic data deconvolution using Kalman filter based on a new system model
Authors: Deng Xiaoying , Zhang Zhengjun , Yang Dinghui
Published: November 2015

Seismic resolution plays an important role in geologic interpretation and reservoir prediction. To improve the vertical resolution of a seismic image, we have developed a new Kalman filter system model for seismic deconvolution. Similar to the conventional Kalman filter model for seismic deconvolution, our new Kalman model is also based on the common viewpoint that a reflected seismic record can be regarded as a convolution of a seismic wavelet with a reflection coefficient series. The new model uses a reversed seismic wavelet to slide across a reflectivity function to achieve the convolution result, instead of using a reversed reflectivity function to slide across a seismic wavelet in the conventional Kalman filter model. A simpler state equation for the new model is achieved, and the number of parameters to select is fewer than the conventional. Furthermore, the number of parameters can be reduced to only one by a theoretical demonstration for stationary noisy signals, which decreases the requirement for multiple parameters selection in the conventional model. The practical selection for this parameter should be a compromise between resolution improvement and noise amplification. Experimental results in the time and frequency domains on synthetic and field seismic records revealed that the Kalman filter based on the new model has the advantages of a higher resolution and peak signal-to-noise ratio (PS/N) than the conventional Kalman filter for stationary and nonstationary signals, and it works similarly to the Wiener filter for stationary signals, and it is superior to the Wiener filter in resolution and PS/N for nonstationary signals. The Kalman filter based on the new model can be applied to seismic resolution improvement.
Structural and Photoelectrical Characterization of Thin Films of a Novel Amphiphilic Oxa[9]helicene Derivative
Authors: Miah Md Jalil , Shahabuddin Mohammad , Karikomi Michinori , Salim Mohammad , Nasuno Eri , Kato Norihiro , Iimura Ken-ichi
Published: November 2015

Polycyclic, highly-conjugated, and ortho-fused aromatic compound, 9-tetraethyleneglycoxy-11-oxa[9]helicene (TO9H), was synthesized and used to explore the feasibility of fabricating thin films and the photoelectrochemical properties of resultant films. Since TO9H has both the hydrophobic helicene part and the hydrophilic tetraethyleneglycoxy (TEG) chain, it behaved as a water-insoluble amphiphile and hence formed a stable Langmuir monolayer at the air–water interface. Homogeneous films with thickness up to a few hundred angstroms were deposited by using a spin-coating method. Both of the monolayers and the spin-coated films were characterized by several methods. Brewster angle microscopic (BAM) images and atomic force microscopic (AFM) topographic images revealed the homogeneous surface of the TO9H monolayer at the air–water interface and of the deposited monolayer and films on solid substrates, respectively. By using an X-ray reflectivity (XR) technique, the thickness, roughness, and electron density of layers or films were determined. The photocurrent evolution was measured using conventional three-electrode systems with light irradiation from a xenon lamp and obtained results showed that the compound TO9H generated a substantial amount of photocurrent under illumination of light.
Detection and Quantification of Sugar and Glucose Syrup in Roasted Green Tea Using near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Luqing Li , Lingdong Wei , Jingming Ning , Zhengzhu Zhang
Published: November 2015

The adulteration of roasted green tea by sugar and glucose syrup increases the risk of moisture sensitivity and microbiological hazards in tea products and is considered to be an illegal business operation. The analytical method of high-performance liquid chromatography, which is commonly used for the detection of sugar and glucose syrup, has high specificity and sensitivity, but it is time-consuming and requires highly skilled operators. In this study, near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy combined with multivariate calibration was employed to detect and quantitatively analyse sugar and glucose syrup in roasted green tea. An orthogonal experimental design, sample preprocessing, partial least squares (PLS) models and qualitative models were systemically utilised when developing the method. The model was optimised using leave-one-out cross-validation, and its performance was tested according to root mean square error of prediction and correlation coefficient of determination for the prediction set samples. To reduce heterogeneity, tea samples were ground and homogenised before spectra were acquired. The repeatability of spectra was optimised when the powder particle size was 40–60 mesh, the pressure was 40 MPa and sample cakes had a thickness of 4 mm. PLS models of the sugar and glucose syrup (adulterants) were established under cross-validation and tested with an independent set of samples, yielding coefficients of determination of 0.998, 0.996 and 0.996, 0.998 for sugar and glucose syrup, respectively. The corresponding values for the root mean square error of calibration and prediction were found to be 0.31% and 0.43% for sugar and 0.41% and 0.30% for glucose syrup, respectively. The identification accuracies for these adulterants in roasted green tea were up to 96% and 100%, respectively. These results reveal the feasibility of using NIR spectroscopy for the detection and quantification of adulterants (sugar and glucose syrup) in roasted green tea with acceptable accuracy.
Review: Progress in Research on near Infrared Spectroscopy for Fire Product Quality Rapid Detection in China
Authors: Song Wen-Qi , Xue Gang
Published: November 2015

This article describes a present fire product certification system and some of the problems in supervision and management. The crucial components of extinguishing agents and fire-retardant materials are still unable to be detected rapidly on-site using the GA588 rules for field inspection and judgement of fire products. This article introduces the progress in research on near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy technology for active ingredients, moisture detection, species identification and brand identification of dry powder extinguishing agents, fireproof coatings and heptafluoropropane. It proves that NIR technology can rapidly, accurately and non-destructively measure dry powder extinguishing agents, fireproof coatings and heptafluoropropane. The construction of a rapid detection management system for fire extinguishing agents and fire-retardant materials is put forward.
Optical characterization of epidermal cells and their relationship to DNA recovery from touch samples
Authors: Stanciu Cristina E. , Philpott M. Katherine , Kwon Ye Jin , Bustamante Eduardo E. , Ehrhardt Christopher J.
Published: November 2015

The goal of this study was to investigate the relative contributions of different cellular and genetic components to biological samples created by touch or contact with a surface – one of the most challenging forms of forensic evidence. Touch samples were generated by having individuals hold an object for five minutes and analyzed for quantity of intact epidermal cells, extracellular DNA, and DNA from pelleted cell material after elution from the collection swab. Comparisons were made between samples where individuals had washed their hands immediately prior to handling and those where hand washing was not controlled. The vast majority (84-100%) of DNA detected in these touch samples was extracellular and was uncorrelated to the number of epidermal cells detected. Although little to no extracellular or cell pellet-associated DNA was detected when individuals washed their hands prior to substrate handling, we found that a significant number of epidermal cells (between ~5x103 and ~1x105) could still be recovered from these samples, suggesting that other types of biological information may be present even when no amplifiable nuclear DNA is present. These results help to elucidate the biological context for touch samples and characterize factors that may contribute to patterns of transfer and persistence of genetic material in forensic evidence.
Development trends of recreational tourism in rural areas
Authors: Метлюк Вера , Metlyuk Vera
Published: November 2015

The article substantiates the reasons for the development of recreational tourism in rural areas based on analysis of the concepts and functions of recreation. The article reveals the biomedical and educational functions of recreation. The article demonstrates imbalances in the population distribution in the Northwestern Federal District, which exacerbate the recreational needs of large cities, including recreational tourism. The author gives a brief analysis of the operating experience of rural tourism facilities in Europe, considers recreational potential of countryside in Leningrad region, and characterizes the municipal districts with well-developed infrastructure of rural tourism. The role of government in the reorientation of the population preferences of major cities to the countryside is shown. Guest houses as the examples of successful projects of recreational tourism in rural areas in the region are considered. The problems of development of infrastructure and tourism service are specifies. The article examines the complex of factors needed for successful development of rural tourism in the regions and municipalities. Author emphasizes the need of creation the mechanisms to manage the risks of entrepreneurs, which operating in the tourism sector in rural areas. The author defines the target group of people interested in the development of recreational tourism in rural areas (town dwellers and rural population, regional and municipal authorities) and on the statistical basis shows a significant resource and territorial development potential of recreational tourism in rural areas. The key issues, which hinder development of recreational tourism in rural areas, including, among other factors, the lack of a unified development concept of this type tourism in the region are identified.
Improvement of the effectiveness of ski resorts in Moscow region on the basis of the foreign experience
Authors: Абесадзе Тимур , Abesadze Timur , Ермаков Александр , Ermakov Aleksandr , Пименов Иван , Pimenov Ivan
Published: November 2015

The article presents recommendations for improvement of the effectiveness of the ski resorts in Moscow region using the experience of the ski resort «Vradal Panorama» (city of Bo, Norway). Advanced technical equipment, extended period of lying snow, a wide variety of ski slopes, the services offered at the resort caused the growth of creditability of the resort «Vradal Panorama». In the warm snowless season the resort offers the various kinds of services and entertainment (from boating and bicycles - to fishing). Improving of ski resorts effectiveness requires the legislative development, quality and safety assurance in Alpine tourism. Proposed measures for sustainable development of ski resorts in the Moscow region with foreign experience will make them attractive both for the residents of Moscow and the Moscow region, and for international tourists.
Marketing of educational services in tourism under modernization of Russian education
Authors: Степанова Светлана , Stepanova Svetlana
Published: November 2015

The article considers the peculiarities of the marketing policy of educational institutions, which carry out the personnel training for the tourism industry. Today, the study of issues related to strategic directions of marketing policy of educational institutions, which carry out the personnel training for the tourism industry, becomes more and more important. The modern model of education makes new requirements for the level of competence of graduates of educational institutions, including for tourism. Fundamental changes in the market of educational services in the field of tourism relate to the introduction of professional standards in the future. They will be the basis for the adjustment of federal educational standards and educational programs at all levels of professional education, and the use of innovative forms and methods in vocational and internal training of personnel for the tourism industry. The article gives an analysis of the content of the concept of educational services marketing for the tourism industry. The requirements for the marketing policy of educational institutions, which carry out the personnel training for the tourism industry, are generalized. The strategic direction that consists in active implement programs of additional vocational educationg in the tourism is justified.
The ways of effectiveness improving of debt recovery of citizens in housing and communal services
Authors: Хаванова Наталья , Khavanova Natalya , Литвинова Елена , Litvinova Elena
Published: November 2015

One of the most significant tasks and problems amplifying every year for all heads of management companies and other organizations of a housing and municipal complex is the effective legal department receivables of the enterprises of branch.

Today the debt of the population on payment for utilities is the most widespread type of a debt in relationship between management companies, the supplying resources organizations and consumers of services of housing and communal services. For this reason the majority of the disputes, which are at permission in courts of law, arise between the organizations of housing and communal services, natural and legal entities.

In the article actual problems of compensation of debts of the population on payment of housing-and-municipal services are considered, the main reasons for emergence of non-payments, and also difficulties of management companies in work with defaulters are established. The statistical material characterizing the volume of debt for housing-and-municipal services in the country including by regions of Russia is given. On the base of considering of the debt structure is revealed that its main part is made by debts on heat supply. The special attention in article is paid to the transition tendency arising now from delay by citizens of payment of obligatory payments to systematic failure to pay that causes the necessity of acceptance of urgent measures for strengthening of discipline of payments. Various ways of impact of management companies and associations of owners of housing on unfair residents are given. In article on the basis of the review of legislative initiatives the offers on ensuring repayment of debt on housing-and-municipal services directed on improvement of payment discipline of consumers of services, increase of mutually responsibility of all subjects of system of the relations, and also on providing necessary conditions for effective work of the organizations and the enterprises of branch are considered. It is noted that against the possible growth of volume of debts formation among the population of steady understanding of importance of timely fee of a housing-and-municipal complex becomes topical issue.
Tourism and recreation system of Kabardino-Balkaria Republic: design solutions on attraction of "new" tourists
Authors: Тхагапсов Ахмед , Tkhagapsov Akhmed
Published: November 2015

In Kabardino-Balkaria development of tourism and recreation system is a priority for social and economic development, along with agriculture. The aim - creation of infrastructure of tourism and recreation system covering related sectors, and strengthening the multiplier effect of tourism industry. Consequently, Russia´s ability to invest in the modernization of infrastructure will impact on the effectiveness of the tourism and recreation system and the whole region. Kabardino-Balkaria has the highest recreational potential, the implementation of which requires taking into account the specific conditions. These include the transport remoteness, the tense political and socio-economic situation, the lack of professional personnel and advanced infrastructure, as well as the specific mentality of local people.

The author proposes a model of tourismand recreational zoning of Kabardino-Balkaria on the basis of the developed tourism and recreational zones, formed taking into account features of the territorial arrangement, level of tourism-recreational value and feasibility of further development of tourism destinations. All this is the basis of design solutions on attraction of "new" tourists and increasing the profitability of tourism and recreational business in the region.
Measuring nurses’ knowledge of preventive vaccination
Authors: Różalska Elżbieta J. , Kaczyńska Anna , Belowska Jarosława , Panczyk Mariusz , Zarzeka Aleksand , Dykowska Grażyna , Sienkiewicz Zofia , Gotlib Joanna
Published: November 2015

Introduction. Nurses’ attitudes toward vaccination can be the most important factor influencing the patients’ knowledge about the infectious disease-related risks.
Aim. Measuring nurses’ knowledge about vaccination.
Material and methods. 200 nurses, 97% women. Mean age: 40.8 (SD=10.5 years, min.22, max. 60). Tenure: 18.9 (SD=11.7, min 1, max. 44). 55% Bachelor’s degree, 32% course in vaccination. It was a voluntary, anonymous study and the questionnaire comprised 29 close-ended and two open questions. STATISTICA 10.0 PL. Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U test, p<0.05.
Results. There is a relationship between the nurse’s knowledge level and their age (p=0.00), tenure (p=0.00), workplace (p=0.00), education (p=0.31), and the fact that they had graduated from a course in vaccination (p=0.00).
Conclusions.
There is a huge diversity in terms of nurses’ expertise but overall, it can be said that nurses do not have sufficient knowledge in the field of vaccinations.
Participating in a vaccination course improved the level of knowledge of the issue, pointing to the need of high-quality, postgraduate education in this field.
The study participants’ age and length of tenure influenced the level of knowledge of preventive vaccination – it is important to repeat courses. Vaccinology is a field that has been undergoing rapid development.
This means, the level of knowledge about preventive vaccination needs updating and broadening.
Analysis of the level and type of the support peri-menopausal women receive
Authors: Kanadys Katarzyna , Lewicka Magdalen , Sulima Magdalena , Wiktor Henryk
Published: November 2015

Introduction. Perimenopausal period is a time when numerous biological and psychological changes occur to women. This might be a particularly difficult time, since there are also numerous social changes happening. Every female undergoing these changes could expect support from others, which may be conditioned by various factors.
Aim. An analysis of both the level and type of social support, depending on the socio-demographic characteristics of women at perimenopausal age.
Material and methods. The study covered 268 women at perimenopausal age. The qualification criteria were as follows: age 45-55, lack of mental disorders, no diseases requiring hospitalization during the period of study. The study was conducted using the Social Support Scale by Kmiecik-Baran and a questionnaire designed by the authors of this work.
Results. The authors’ own study looking at the level and type of support that women receive showed that age, education level, and marital status did not affect the level of social support the women received. This pertains both to the overall and detailed evaluation, with the division into particular types of support received by respondents (informative, instrumental, evaluative, emotional.
Conclusions. The women looked at in the study received social support at an average level, irrespective of its type. There was no correlation between the age, education or marital status and the type of support they received.
Anti-plagiarism analysis of exam projects concerning Patients’ rights prepared by the students of Nursing
Authors: Panczyk Mariusz , Zarzeka Aleksander , Belowska Jarosława , Gotlib Joanna
Published: November 2015

Aim. A comparative analysis of essays, prepared as exam projects looking at the concept of “Patients’ rights” written by the full-time students (ST group) and part-time students (NST group) of the Nursing Masters program at the Medical University of Warsaw (MUW). The aim was to detect any plagiarism.
Material and methods. The study has been conducted by looking at written works submitted by two groups of students (n = 178): 111 ST group (n = 111) and NST group (n = 67). In the study, the anti-plagiarism system called Turnitin® was used, which allowed to generate three parameters: the general one (OWP), internet one (IWP) and cross-parameter one (KWP) of the similarity factor. Both the Levene’s test of variance homogeneity and U Mann Whitney non-parametric test were used..
Results. The OWP level reached 20%, which means that a text could be suspected of having been plagiarised if the rate equalled 52% of all the studied exam projects (OWP average ≈ 32%). The OWP average for ST and NST was 29.9 vs. 35.9% respectively. Differentiation level of all similarity parameters was similar in both groups (Levene’s test P > 0.05). Moreover, IWP level was statistically higher than in NST group, as opposed to ST group (U Mann-Whitney test, P < 0.04). Regarding the KWP parameter, there were no relevant differences between the two groups of students (U Mann-Whitney test, P > 0.05).
Conclusions. Identified indicators of unauthorised borrowings observed in NST group mean that students require education in the area of “Copyrights”. Generally high values of similarity parameters in both groups justify the necessity of introducing a more rigorous anti-plagiarism control of all texts, independently prepared by students.
Overweight and obesity among children at the age of six in Łazy
Authors: Łaciak Urszula , Kołodziej Wiesława
Published: November 2015

Aim. The aim of this study was to obtain data showing the prevalence of overweight and obesity among six-year-olds in Łazy.

Material and methods. The study involving anthropometric measurements was performed in the group of all six-year-olds attending various schools in Łazy.

Results. In a population of six-years-olds in Łazy, 17 out of 102 surveyed individuals are overweight (16.7%). The percentage of the overweight children was as follows: 41% girls and 59% boys. A population of six-year-olds living in Łazy comprised of 17 obese children (16.7%). Most of them are boys (82%) whilst girls only make 18% of them.

Conclusions. Among the population of six-year-olds in Łazy, there are more obese boys than girls. In the urban area of Łazy Township, every second boy is overweight, as well as every fourth girl. In the rural areas of Łazy Township, the number of obese children is lower by one-third.
Burnout syndrome among nurses working in intensive care units
Authors: Gwarda Katarzyna , Sienkiewicz Zofia , Kaczyńska Anna , Gotlib Joanna
Published: November 2015

Introduction. Most healthcare professionals are at risk of developing the burnout syndrome (BS).
Aim. The aim of the study was to assess the occurrence of BS among nurses working in intensive care units (ICU).
Material and methods. Some 195 nurses took part in a voluntary, anonymous questionnaire study. A standardized survey was used for the study: 36 statements were assessed on the basis of a 7-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics: mean, standard deviation, min, max.
Results. The level of BS was influenced by the amount of workload (46.14 in G. 1 and 47.18 in G. 2), followed by the attitude to work (40.92 in G. 1 and 40.43 in G. 2) and contact with patients (30.85 in G. 1 and 29.14 in G. 2). The nurses’ individual attitude toward stress had least impact over BS levels (17.71 in G. 1 and 17.36 in G. 2).

Conclusions.
Nurses are vulnerable to BS, which may contribute to lowering the patient care quality.
There was no relationship between ICU and the level of BS.
Organizational factors (like workload) had the greatest influence on the level of BS among ICU nurses and institutions that employ nurses should pay attention to this issue in order to modify organizational arrangements and improve patient care standards.
There was no correlation between the nurses’ sex and the occurrence of BS. The two groups were not equal in size which means that some further studies are needed.
A brief history of the development of laparoscopy and minimally invasive techniques
Authors: arzynkowski Piotr , Piotrkowska Renata , Książek Janina , Kruk Agnieszka
Published: November 2015

Introduction. The idea of laparoscopic surgery was born at the beginning of the 20th century and has aroused great interest in medical circles around the world. Its rapid growth, good results it yielded, as well as huge popularity, has made laparoscopic surgery the standard surgical treatment method for many diseases.
Aim. The purpose of this paper is to present a short history of laparoscopy and laparoscopic techniques: SILS and NOTES.
Clinical Trials in Precision Oncology
Authors: Mockus Susan M , Patterson Sara E , Statz Cara , Bult Carol J , Tsongalis Gregory J
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND

Availability of genomic information used in the management of cancer treatment has outpaced both regulatory and reimbursement efforts. Many types of clinical trials are underway to validate the utility of emerging genome-based biomarkers for diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive applications. Clinical trials are a key source of evidence required for US Food and Drug Administration approval of therapies and companion diagnostics and for establishing the acceptance criteria for reimbursement.

CONTENT

Determining the eligibility of patients for molecular-based clinical trials and the interpretation of data emerging from clinical trials is significantly hampered by 2 primary factors: the lack of specific reporting standards for biomarkers in clinical trials and the lack of adherence to official gene and variant naming standards. Clinical trial registries need specifics on the mutation required for enrollment as opposed to allowing a generic mutation entry such as, “EGFR mutation.” The use of clinical trials data in bioinformatics analysis and reporting is also gated by the lack of robust, state of the art programmatic access support. An initiative is needed to develop community standards for clinical trial descriptions and outcome reporting that are modeled after similar efforts in the genomics research community.

Systematic implementation of reporting standards is needed to insure consistency and specificity of biomarker data, which will in turn enable better comparison and assessment of clinical trial outcomes across multiple studies. Reporting standards will facilitate improved identification of relevant clinical trials, aggregation and comparison of information across independent trials, and programmatic access to clinical trials databases.
Numerical And Physical Simulation Of Liquid Steel Behaviour In One Strand Tundish With Subflux Turbulence Controller
Authors: Cwudziński A.
Published: November 2015

This paper presents the results of computer simulations (Ansys-Fluent) and laboratory experiments (physical water model) carried out to describe the motion of steel flow in the tundish. The facility under investigation is a single-nozzle slab tundish. The internal geometry of consider object was changed by flow control device i.e. subflux turbulence controller (STC). In order to obtain a complete hydrodynamic picture in the tundish furniture variants tested, the computer simulations were performed for both isothermal and non-isothermal conditions. From the performed computer simulations and laboratory experiments (physical modeling) it can be found that, the non-isothermal conditions occurring during continuous steel casting will definitely influence the hydrodynamic pattern forming in the tundishes with STC.
The Magnetization Reversal Processes Of Bulk (Nd, Y)-(Fe, Co)-B Alloy In The As-Quenched State
Authors: Dośpiał M. , Nabiałek M. , Szota M. , Gondro J.
Published: November 2015

The magnetization reversal processes of bulk Fe64Co5Nd6Y6B19 alloy in the as-quenched state have been investigated. From the analysis of the initial magnetization curve and differential susceptibility versus an internal magnetic field it was deduced, that the main mechanism of magnetization reversal process is the pinning of domain walls at the grain’s boundaries of the Nd2Fe14B phase. Basing on the dependence of the reversible magnetization component as a function of magnetic field it was found that reversible rotation of a magnetic moment vector and motion of domain walls in multi-domain grains result in high initial values of the reversible component. The presence of at least two maxima on differential susceptibility of irreversible magnetization component in function of magnetic field imply existence of few pinning sites of domain walls in Fe64Co5Nd6Y6B19 alloy. The dominant interactions between particles have been determined on the basis of the Wohlfarth dependence. Such a behavior of Wohlfarth’s plot implies that the dominant interaction between grains becomes short range exchange interactions.
TEM & AFM - Complementary Techniques For Structural Characterization Of Nanobainitic Steel
Authors: Dworecka J. , Jezierska E. , Rębiś J. , Rożniatowski K. , Świątnicki W.
Published: November 2015

The aim of this study was to analyse and to identify the phases which formed in 100CrMnSi6-4 bearing steel after the nanostructuring heat treatment. Especially designed thermal treatment parameters were applied in order to obtain a nanobainitic structure. Two different microscopic techniques were used for the precise examination of the microstructures obtained: transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Both analyses confirm that the examined steel has a nanocrystalline structure. However, it was discovered that the selected analysis methods affected the results of the plate thickness measurements.
Improvement Of Tools Durability By Application Of Hybrid Layer Of Nitrided/PECVD Coating.
Authors: Gronostajski Z. , Kaszuba M. , Paschke H. , Zakrzewski T. , Rogaliński G.
Published: November 2015

In the process of die hot forging the tools are subjected to three main factors leading to their destruction: the intensive thermal shocks, cyclically variable mechanical loads and intensive friction. The above mentioned factors causing destruction in the process of hot forging and warm forging concern mainly the surface of tools. Hybrid technique nitrided/PECVD belong to the latest methods of modifying the properties of the surface layer. In the paper the application of this technique for forging tools of constant velocity joint body is presented. The durability of the new tools is much better than the tools applied so far.
Analysis Of The Underpotential Deposition Of Cadmium On Copper
Authors: Kowalik R.
Published: November 2015

In this study the process of deposition of cadmium on polycrystalline copper electrode in sulfate solution was investigated. The process of underpotential and bulk deposition was analyzed by classical electrochemical method: cyclic voltammetry(CV), anodic stripping voltammetry(ASV) and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance(EQCM). The obtained results were compared with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy(EIS) measurements. CV, EQCM and EIS results suggest that the UPD of cadmium starts below potential −0.4 V vs Ag/AgCl. Additionally the stripping analysis indicates the formation of cadmium monolayer with different density of deposited atoms depending on the applied potential. The transition from UPD to bulk deposition occurs below potential −0,7 V.
Requirements Relating To Manufacturing Constructions In The Aspect Of Conducting Ultrasonic Testing
Authors: Kaczmarek R. , Krawczyk R.
Published: November 2015

Basic factors which have an influence on conducting manual ultrasonic testing of joints in the welded constructions are presented in the following article. These factors are specified on the base of the guidelines referring to conditions and methods of carrying out examinations which are currently in force in the following standards PN-EN ISO 17640 and PN-EN ISO 22825. Due to the vastness of subject of ultrasonic testing the main aim of the following article is to collect all important information which relates to design and manufacture of constructions and has a key influence on the following examinations.
Examination And Detecting Discontinuities In The Austenite Inconel 625 Layer Used On The Sheet Pile Walls Of The Boiler’s Evaporator To Utilize Waste Thermally
Authors: Słania J. , Krawczyk R. , Wójcik SZ.
Published: November 2015

There are practical aspects of a quality control of the Inconel 625 surfacing weld in terms of undergone examinations and detected defects in chapter three of the article. Visual inspections, examinations of the thickness of the surfacing weld, examinations of an iron content on the surface of the surfacing weld and detecting surface cracks are described. A process of undergone practical examinations is presented.
The Influence Of Temperature Gradient On Stereological Parameters Of Carbide Phase On Cross-Section Of Abrasive Wear Resistant Chromium Cast Iron
Authors: Studnicki A. , Suchoń J. , Wróbel T. , Szajnar J.
Published: November 2015

In the paper analysis of temperature gradient and parameters of structure on casting cross-section of abrasive wear resistant chromium cast iron at carbon content of 2,5%wt. and chromium 17%wt. with nickel and molybdenum additives are presented. The castings were made with use of special tester ϕ100mm (method of temperature gradient and derivative analysis) with temperature recording in many points from thermal centre to surface (to mould) of casting. Registered cooling curves were used to describe the temperature gradient on cross-section of analyzed casting. On the basis of determined curves of temperature gradient measurement fields were selected to make the quantitative studies of structure. The results of studies show significant influence of temperature gradient on quantitative parameters of chromium cast iron structure. Moreover was affirmed that exists a critical temperature gradient for which is present rapid change of quantitative parameters of chromium cast iron structure.
A Method For Producing Hollow Shafts By Rotary Compression Using A Specially Designed Forging Machine
Authors: Tomczak J. , Bulzak T. , Pater Z.
Published: November 2015

The paper presents a new method for manufacturing hollow shafts, where tubes are used as billet. First, the design of a specially designed forging machine for rotary compression is described. The machine is then numerically tested with regard to its strength, and the effect of elastic strains of the roll system on the quality of produced parts is determined. The machine’s strength is calculated by the finite element method using the NX Nastran program. Technological capabilities of the machine are determined, too. Next, the results of the modeling of the rotary compression process for a hollow stepped shafts by the finite element method are given. The process for manufacturing hollow shafts was modeled using the Simufact.Forming simulation program. The FEM results are then verified experimentally in the designed forging machine for rotary compression. The experimental results confirm that axisymmetric hollow shafts can be produced by the rotary compression method. It is also confirmed that numerical methods are suitable for investigating both machine design and metal forming processes.
The Effect Of Homogenization Conditions On The Structure And Properties Of 6082 Alloy Billets
Authors: Woźnicki A. , Leśniak D. , Włoch G. , Leszczyńska-Madej B. , Wojtyna A.
Published: November 2015

The paper presents the results of laboratory homogenization investigations of the 6082 grade alloys, differing in Mg and Si content. At the first stage, the microstructure of alloys was analysed after homogenization finished with water quenching. SEM/EDS investigations and DSC tests were applied to evaluate the dissolution of the Mg2Si particles and concentration of the main alloying additions in the grains interiors, depending on soaking conditions. In the case of alloy with lower Mg and Si content, homogenization the temperature of 535ºC for 8h is sufficient for significant Mg2Si particles dissolution. For the alloy with higher Mg and Si content, after homogenization the temperature of 550ºC for 8h, the amount of undissolved Mg2Si particles decreases visibly, compared to homogenization at 535ºC for 8h. However, an unfavourable tendency of dispersoids growth is observed and these soaking conditions are not found to be recommended.

At the second research stage, the influence of homogenization cooling rate on the size and distribution of the Mg2Si particles observed in the alloys microstructure was analysed. The ability of the Mg2Si particles, precipitated during various homogenization coolings, to rapid dissolution was estimated. For this purpose, the hardness after solution heat treatment with short annealing and ageing was determined and the DSC tests were performed. It was found, that cooling after homogenization at 315ºC/h is sufficient for precipitation of fine Mg2Si particles, which dissolve during subsequent rapid heating. Cooling at 40ºC/h, causes precipitation of Mg2Si phase in the form of large particles, unable for further fast dissolution.
Structure Of TiN/Hydroxyapatite Multilayers Deposited On Surface Of NiTi Shape Memory Alloy
Authors: Dudek K. , Goryczka T. , Wierzchoń T. , Lelątko J.
Published: November 2015

In order to improve a corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of NiTi shape memory alloys, the surface of the NiTi alloy was covered by protective layers. The paper presents results of the layers composed of titanium nitride and hydroxyapatite (HAp). The TiN layers were deposited using the glow discharge technique and then the bioactive hydroxyapatite layer was formed from simulated body fluids solution. The results of the structure studies and microscopic observations confirmed that on the surface of the NiTi alloy a thin titanium nitride layer 35-50 nm thick (depending on the glow discharge technique parameters) was obtained. The structure of the deposited layers was studied by means of the X-ray diffraction technique. Also, mechanical parameters of obtained layers were characterized using nanoindentation. On the top of the titanium nitride, a layer consisted of hydroxyapatite and NaCl was formed. Applied parameters of deposition process did not lead to decomposition of the NiTi parent phase (B2) to the equilibrium ones.
Characterization Of Oxide Layers Formed On 13CrMo4-5 Steel Operated For A Long Time At An Elevated Temperature
Authors: Gwoździk M.
Published: November 2015

The paper contains results of studies into the formation of oxide layers on 13CrMo4-5 (15HM) steel long-term operated at an elevated temperature. The oxide layer was studied on a surface and a cross-section at the inner and outer surface of the tube wall. The 13CrMo4-5 steel operated at the temperature of 470°C during 190,000 hours was investigated. X-ray structural examinations (XRD) were carried out, microscope observation s using an optical, scanning microscope were performed. The native material chemical composition was analysed by means of emission spark spectroscopy, while that of oxide layers on a scanning microscope (EDS). The studies on the topography of the oxide layers comprised studies on the roughness plane, which were carried out using a AFM microscope designed for 2D and 3D studies on the surface. Mechanical properties of the oxide layer – steel (substrate) were characterised on the basis of scratch test. The adhesion of oxide layers, friction force, friction coefficient, scratching depth were determined as well as the force at which the layer was delaminated.
Corrosion Behaviour Of Sintered AISI 316L Stainless Steel Modified With Boron-Rich Master Alloy In 0.5M NaCl Water Solution
Authors: Szewczyk-Nykiel A. , Skałoń M. , Kazior J.
Published: November 2015

Present study describes results of research conducted on sinters manufactured from a powdered AISI 316L austenitic stainless steel modified with an addition of boron-rich master alloy. The main aim was to study impact of the master alloy addition on a corrosion resistance of sinters in 0.5M water solution of NaCl. In order to achieve it, a potentiodynamic method was used. Corrosion tests results were also supplemented with a microstructures of near-surface areas. Scanning electron microscope pictures of a corroded surfaces previously exposed to the corrosive environment were taken and compared. It was successful to increase the corrosion resistance of AISI 316L sinters modified with master alloy. It was also successful in particular samples to obtain a densified superficial layer not only on the sinters sintered in the hydrogen but also on sinters sintered in the vacuum. No linear correlation between presence of the densified superficial layer and the enhanced corrosion resistance was noticed.
Laser Welding Of Finned Tubes Made Of Austenitic Steels
Authors: Stolecki M. , Bijok H. , Kowal Ł. , Adamiec J.
Published: November 2015

This paper describes the technology of welding of finned tubes made of the X5CrNi1810 (1.4301) austenitic steel, developed at Energoinstal SA, allowing one to get high quality joints that meet the requirements of the classification societies (PN-EN 15614), and at the same time to significantly reduce the manufacturing costs. The authors described an automatic technological line equipped with a Trumph disc laser and a tube production technological process. To assess the quality of the joints, one performed metallographic examinations, hardness measurements and a technological attempt to rupture the fin. Analysis of the results proved that the laser-welded finned tubes were performed correctly and that the welded joints had shown no imperfections.
Physical Modelling Of The Steel Flow In RH Apparatus
Authors: Pieprzyca J. , Merder T. , Saternus M. , Michalek K.
Published: November 2015

The efficiency of vacuum steel degassing using RH methods depends on many factors. One of the most important are hydrodynamic processes occurring in the ladle and vacuum chamber. It is always hard and expensive to determine the flow character and the way of steel mixing in industrial unit; thus in this case, methods of physical modelling are applied. The article presents the results of research carried out on the water physical model of RH apparatus concerning the influence of the flux value of inert gas introduced through the suck legs on hydrodynamic conditions of the process. Results of the research have visualization character and are presented graphically as a RTD curves. The main aim of such research is to optimize the industrial vacuum steel degassing process by means of RH method.
DSC Analysis Of Order–Disorder Transition In Ni3Al Based Alloys From Ni-Al-Cr System
Authors: Maciąg T. , Rzyman K. , Przeliorz R.
Published: November 2015

Ni-Al-Cr system is significant for industrial alloys based on intermetallic phase Ni3Al, that crystallizes in crystal lattice L12. It is indicated as γ′, contrary to disordered phase γ which occurs with addition of chromium. DSC analysis was performed on alloys of chemical composition from Ni75Al25÷Ni75Cr25 range of Ni-rich part of Ni-Al-Cr system. In addition, few measurements were conducted using DTA method. Based on curves registered, it was possible to identify characteristic temperature during heating and cooling of the sample. It corresponds to existence of phase boundary γ′+γ / γ in examined alloys. Results of thermal analysis were compared with results obtained with other method performed by authors which is solution calorimetric method.