bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incorporating a Pharmacist into the Discharge Process: A Unit-Based Transitions of Care Pilot
Authors: Li Hanlin , Guffey William , Honeycutt Laura , Pasquale Timothy , Rozario Nigel L. , Veverka Angie
Published: October 2016

Objective

To evaluate the impact of a multifaceted, pharmacy-driven, unit-based transitions of care (TOC) program on all-cause 30-day readmission rates and to assess readmission rates in predefined subgroup patient populations.

Methods

This prospective study included adult patients who were discharged from the pilot unit from January 5 to January 30, 2015. Patients who expired during hospitalization, left the hospital against medical advice, or transferred to another unit or nonaffiliated hospital were excluded. Possible pharmacist interventions included daily medication profile review, delivery of discharge medications to the bedside, counseling, and communication of a discharge medication list to follow-up providers. Patients had a 30-day follow-up period from the date of discharge to assess for readmission.

Results

A total of 131 patients were screened and 94 patients were included. The primary outcome evaluating 30-day readmission rates occurred in 12.8% of patients in the pilot group versus 18.8% of patients in the historical control group ( p = .26). None of the patients who received all possible pharmacist interventions were readmitted. Secondary outcomes assessing readmission rates in predefined subgroup populations as well as length of stay were comparable between the 2 groups. All identified medication discrepancies were resolved prior to discharge.

Conclusion

Readmission rates during the pilot were numerically lower but not statistically significant when compared with historical data. Enhancement of the pharmacy-driven TOC services through allocation of additional resources is in progress. Further investigation is warranted to determine the impact of a TOC pharmacist after the service is sustained.
Fundamental uncertainty limit of optical flow velocimetry according to
Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle
Authors: Fischer Andreas
Published: October 2016

Optical flow velocity measurements are important for understanding the
complex behavior of flows. Although a huge variety of methods exist,
they are either based on a Doppler or a time-of-flight measurement
principle. Doppler velocimetry evaluates the velocity-dependent
frequency shift of light scattered at a moving particle, whereas
time-of-flight velocimetry evaluates the traveled distance of a
scattering particle per time interval. Regarding the aim of achieving
a minimal measurement uncertainty, it is unclear if one principle
allows to achieve lower uncertainties or if both principles can
achieve equal uncertainties. For this reason, the natural, fundamental
uncertainty limit according to Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle is
derived for Doppler and time-of-flight measurement principles,
respectively. The obtained limits of the velocity uncertainty are
qualitatively identical showing, e.g., a direct proportionality for
the absolute value of the velocity to the power of
32 and an indirect proportionality to the
square root of the scattered light power. Hence, both measurement
principles have identical potentials regarding the fundamental
uncertainty limit due to the quantum mechanical behavior of photons.
This fundamental limit can be attained (at least asymptotically) in
reality either with Doppler or time-of-flight methods, because the
respective Cramér–Rao bounds for dominating photon shot noise, which
is modeled as white Poissonian noise, are identical with the
conclusions from Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle.
Make faces, Zulu! Make faces, Zulu! Silent comedy and ethnic stereotyping in early South African movies, 1916–1921
Authors: Parsons Neil
Published: October 2016

The comedies of African Film Productions were filmed by American and British directors, with casts drawn mainly from stage actors on overseas tours. After an experiment combining actors with cartoon animation in 1916, three farces of British-American type were directed by B.F. Clinton, notably with A.F.P.’s Zulu star Goba’s head stuck inside a valuable vase. Five short comedies were directed by Dick Cruikshanks in 1917, three with large predominantly African casts. The Zulutown series, in the mould of Charlie Chaplin slapstick, was widely shown to African audiences in subsequent years. A Christmas pantomime, which critiqued the use of child labour on farms, featured a small black child at its centre. And Then–? was a parody of blood-and-thunder melodrama. The independent production Thoroughbreds All (1918) was a satire on the morality of horse-racing. These comedies are remarkable for being plot-centred rather than constructed around the antics of well-known comedians, as were most comedy films made overseas.
Diamonds at the meeting of her thighs: Representations of gender and sexuality in U-Carmen eKhayelitsha
Authors: Stobie Cheryl
Published: October 2016

The heroine of Prosper Mérimée’s 1845 novella, Carmen, appears as an archetypal femme fatale who lures unsuspecting men to their destruction by means of her manipulative sexuality. While Georges Bizet’s 1875 opera, Carmen, reveals the psychology of masculine anxieties, sexual jealousy and murderous rage, his character, Carmen, expresses her credo of autonomous sexuality, and can be seen as a prototypical modern woman. My article examines the representations of the female protagonist’s sexuality in a contemporary South African film that re-works the Carmen story in an African context. I argue that U-Carmen eKhayelitsha/Carmen in Khayelitsha, directed by Mark Dornford-May (2005), does not realize the potential significance of Carmen’s sexuality. I trace the ways in which dance is not used to good effect in the film. In addition, I show that the film highlights traditional masculinity in various ways, such as offering disturbing parallels between the ritual slaughter of a bull and the murder of Carmen. I conclude that U-Carmen eKhayelitsha displays revisionist and ambivalent gender politics.
What languages do aliens speak? Multilingual ‘Otherness’ of diasporic dystopia in District 9
Authors: Mizoguchi Akiko
Published: October 2016

District 9 (Blomkamp, 2009), a South African science-fiction film, is noted for its dystopian vision. It is mostly set in a dilapidated township of Johannesburg called ‘District 9’, where ‘abject’ refugee aliens and Nigerian gangs reside. Moreover, the district in the end becomes a chaotic battlefield where the South African mercenaries hired by neo-liberal Multi-National United and the Nigerians mercilessly hunt Wikus van de Merwe, an MNU employee, whose mutating body holds a key to operating alien weaponry. These temporary dwellers of District 9 are informed by many levels of displacement and marginalization and are presented as the ‘Other’ to the residents of the ‘human’ world and this ‘Other’ worldliness is intensified by the way in which the director forges the ‘South African’ multilingual condition in the film. This article discusses the colonial and segregationist world-view on the post-apartheid South Africa in the representation of the ‘Other’ multilingual and diasporic landscape.
Life and Work of Health Professionals
Authors: Oliveira Sidney Medeiros de , Nascimento Vânia Barbosa do
Published: October 2016

This study aims to discuss about the labor context of health professionals in Brazil, through a literature review. The idea is to draw attention to aspects that are most impacting on workers' health. The results revealed an inadequate work rate for times of rest, especially in the case of doctors and nurses. These professionals when in shifts, end up sleeping poorly and / or feeding insufficiently. Also working hard and with incompatible remuneration. These findings contrast with the need to meet social representations that populate the imagination of these professional categories. It was not intended here, to exhaust this topic or cover all health professions.
The Teaching Research Methods in Management Course: Should We go beyond the survey?
Authors: Cassundé Fernanda Roda De Souza Araújo , Cassundé Júnior Nildo Ferreira , Oliveira Gislene Farias de
Published: October 2016

The production of knowledge can happen not only through the transfer of knowledge, but it is also possible to produce it through the scientific research. Thinking about the teaching that enables analytical attitudes, reflexive, questioning and problem-solving, which learning comes from own observations to inquire about the knowledge and the world itself, implies articulate it with research and therefore related to the discipline of research methodology, core the discussion of this theoretical essay. Being the search the soul of academic life, it becomes a tool in the production of knowledge and important strategy to integrate knowledge, fragmented because of curricular and technicist disciplines programs structures, specialist teachers and fragmented teaching methodologies. Of the theoretical discussion we conclude that yes, we should go beyond the survey if we want to privilege a critical training, allowing students the opportunity how to learn to learn.
A massive growth at atypical location- a rare case report
Authors: Garg Harshita , Bhatia Gouri , A.Kapoor Ritika , Khattri Shivi
Published: October 2016

Idiopathic fibrous hyperplasia is one of the most common lesions of all oral fibrous tumor like growths. It is a benign neoplasm and usually associated with local irritation. Its presence at unique location makes it even more interesting to study and understand. A 30-year-old systemically healthy male patient presented to the Department of Periodontics with the chief complaint of swelling in an unusual location on the hard palate. Clinically, the swelling was firm, solitary and pedunculated. Radiographs displayed no hard tissue involvement. Treatment comprised of combined approach using both electrosurgery and scalpel. Thus, it can be concluded that fibromas of the oral soft tissues include a diverse group of reactive and neoplastic conditions. Therefore, lot of expertise and knowledge is required for proper diagnosis and treatment planning.
Emerging Potable Water Technologies
Authors: Baghel Anuradha , Singh Beer
Published: October 2016

Water is essential to keep up life, especially safe drinking water is one of the first priorities. As water quality is important, many nations endeavor to guard the water and to increase access to potable water. Fortification of water supplies from contamination is the earliest stripe of defence. Water purification is very important aspect, presently there are number of drinking water technologies available mostly based on ion exchange, ultra filtration and reverse osmosis techniques, but still about five million people die annually from water born diseases. The objective of this review is to provide direction on the chemical safety of drinking-water and also monitoring of chemicals in drinking-water. Water treatment potential technologies can solve diverse drinking water issues in case of chemical contamination, which is the second objective. The purpose of this review is to make survey of currently available and future emerging technologies for drinking water. Several purification techniques have been adopted to meet the standards. There is a necessity of wide-ranging global approach to tackle the problem of water pollution devastating thousand of lives annually rather than to develop nuclear and biological weapons. This document will also be useful to public health authorities, those responsible for setting standards and for surveillance of drinking-water quality, and to water supply agencies responsible for water quality management.
Emerging Technologies in the Area of Defence Life Sciences
Authors: Goel A.K.
Published: October 2016

In the modern era world has experienced tremendous boost in the field of science and technology, realising its impact on the economic growth and people’s standard of living. India has also maintained its pace in the field of Science and technology. We are among the world’s top 10 nations in the number of scientific publications and patents. The government has made considerable investmentand encouraged public-private partnership to achieve self reliance in different sectors such as space, nuclear power, defence, agriculture, and healthcare. Although, India’s footprint in the life sciences is relatively small, it has taken giant strides to catch up with the rising economic wave to reckon itself as an international player in the life sciences. It has a strong presence in the field biotechnology, particularly related to agriculture, pharmaceuticals, health care, diagnostics, etc. A testimony to this is the accessibility of cutting edge technologies in the market.
Effect of Spacer and the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Authors: Sathe Manisha , Srivastava Shruti , Agrawal Sumit , Ghorpade Ramrao
Published: October 2016

The effect of spacers and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) formats on the functional parameters of assays such as lower detection limit, inhibitory concentration at 50 per cent (IC50), and specificity were studied. Enzyme conjugates having hydrophobic and hydrophilic spacers were prepared using O-isopropyl methylphosphonic acid (IMPA) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) as an enzyme label. Comparison was made with reference to enzyme conjugate without any spacer. The present investigation revealed that the presence of a hydrophilic spacer in the enzyme conjugate significantly improves the sensitivity of assays. An enhanced IC50 value achieved was 0.01 μg mL−1 for free antigen detection by direct immunoassay using hydrophilic spacers and precoating of ELISA plates by secondary antibody. The use of a hydrophilic spacer might have helped in projecting the hapten in the aqueous phase, leading to enhanced antibody binding signal and improved sensitivity of the assay.
Finite Element Method-based Design and Simulations of Micro-cantilever Platform for Chemical and Bio-sensing Applications
Authors: Agarwal R. , Mukhiya R. , Sharma R. , Sharma M.K. , Goel A.K.
Published: October 2016

Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)-based cantilever platform have capability for the detection of chemical and biological agents. This paper reports about the finite element method (FEM) based design and simulations of MEMS-based piezoresistor cantilever platform to be used for detection of chemical and biological toxic agents. Bulk micromachining technique is adopted for the realisation of the device structure. MEMS piezoresistive biosensing platforms are having potential for a field-based label-free detection of various types of bio-molecules. Using the MEMMECH module of CoventorWare® simulations are performed on the designed model of the device and it is observed that principal stress is maximum along the length (among other dimensions of the micro-cantilever) and remains almost constant for 90 per cent of the length of the micro-cantilever. The dimensions of piezoresistor are optimised and the output voltage vs. stress analysis for various lengths of the piezoresistor is performed using the MEMPZR module of the CoventorWare®.
Looming Threat of Chemical and Biological Warfare Agents
Authors: Goel A.K.
Published: October 2016

In the recent past, a dramatic shift has been observed in the strategies of warfare from conventional to non-conventional. Now-a-days, traditional power is of less importance than it used to be earlier. Weapons of mass destruction, which comprise of nuclear weapons, and chemical and biological warfare agents, are posing a great peril to the world due to their devastating potential. Though, there are several bilateral as well as multilateral treaties to control the use and proliferation of these weapons, yet the risk of use of such agents by non-state actors cannot be overlooked. Chances of use of chemical and biological agents are more likely than the nuclear weapons. A comparison of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons in terms of technology, cost, signature, effectiveness on protected and un-protected troops shows that chemical and biological weapon programmes require much lower level of technology and cost than the nuclear weapon programme. Further, there is no or least distinctive and readily observable signature in biological weapon programme in comparison to nuclear and chemical weapon facilities. There can be two possibilities of use of these agents in terrorist attacks. First, there is a risk of transfer of material or know-how of these weapons to terrorists for using against the adversaries and second, the risk of these agents being pilfered due to poor security, thereby sabotaging the national security. The International Committee of Red Cross in February 1918 reckoned these agents as ‘barbarous inventions’ that can ‘only be called criminal’.
Depth Enhancement of an Underwater Towed System using Hydrodynamic Depressor
Authors: Vinod P. , Francis Roni , Prabhasuthan P. , Nandagopan O.R.
Published: October 2016

The underwater towed system described here consists of tow cables, a towed body, an acoustic module and tail rope towed behind a surface ship. The required depth at a particular speed of the towing ship is obtained by paying out specified length of cable from the winch. However the excessive drag forces on the various components of the towed system results in impractically large values of cable length, especially at higher speeds. A hydrodynamic depressor is designed to improve the depth performance. The design is evolved based on numerical analysis and towing tank tests. Estimation of depth attained is carried out based on steady state theory of tow cables. Validation of the numerical analysis results is carried out through field evaluation of depressor performance during sea trial of the towed system.
Low‐frequency stimulation of group III and IV hind limb afferents evokes reflex pressor responses in decerebrate rats
Authors: Harms Jonathan E. , Copp Steven W. , Kaufman Marc P.
Published: October 2016

Contraction of freely perfused hind limb muscles in decerebrate rats evokes the exercise pressor reflex, resulting in sympathetic activation and increased blood pressure. This reflex is propagated along mechanically sensitive group III and metabolically sensitive group IV afferent nerve fibers. Recent research by our laboratory has focused on the exaggeration of the exercise pressor reflex in decerebrate rats with simulated peripheral artery disease, which was induced by ligating the femoral artery for 72 h before the start of the experiment. Recently, we showed that ligating the femoral artery increased the responses of single fiber group III and IV triceps surae muscle afferents to static contraction. The objective of this study was to determine if electrical stimulation of group III and IV afferents at frequencies approximating those occurring during static contraction was capable of reflexively increasing arterial blood pressure. We directly stimulated muscle afferents in the absence of muscle contraction for both freely perfused and ligated rats. We established 0.25 Hz as the minimal stimulation frequency to observe a sustained blood pressure response. The blood pressure response increased in a graded fashion as both stimulus frequency and motor threshold were increased. Additionally, we observed similar blood pressure responses from both freely perfused and ligated rats, suggesting that spinal and medullary processing of group III and IV afferent input plays no role in augmenting the pressor response to contraction caused by femoral artery ligation.
Hydrothermal metasomatism of a peralkaline granite pegmatite, Khaldzan Buragtag massif, Mongolian Altai; complex evolution of REE-Nb minerals
Authors: Bagiński Bogusław , Jokubauskas Petras , Domańska-Siuda Justyna , Kartashov Pavel , Macdonald Ray
Published: October 2016

The low-temperature hydrothermal alteration of certain rare-metal minerals is recorded in a quartz-epidote metasomatite from the Tsakhirin Khuduk occurrence in the Khaldzan-Buragtag Nb-REE-Zr deposit, Mongolian Altai. A peralkaline granitic pegmatite was metasomatized by hydrothermal fluids released from associated intrusions, with the formation of, inter alia, chevkinite-(Ce), fergusonite-(Nd) and minerals of the epidote group. The textural pattern indicates recrystallization and coarsening of these phases. Later, low-temperature alteration by fluids resulted in the chevkinite-(Ce) being replaced by complex titanite-TiO2 -cerite-(Ce)-hingganite-hydroxylbastnasite-( Ce) assemblages. Calcite formed late-stage veins and patches. The hydrous fluids were poor in F and CO2 but had high Ca contents.
Floodplain morphodynamics and distribution of trace elements in overbank deposits, Vistula River Valley Gorge near Solec nad Wisłą, Poland
Authors: Falkowska Ewa , Falkowski Tomasz , Tatur Andrzej , Kałmykow-Piwińska Agnieszka
Published: October 2016

Geological and geochemical investigations were carried out in the floodplain of the Vistula River Valley gorge near Solec nad Wisłą (Małopolska Gorge of the Vistula River). Geological mapping was supported by DEM and remote sensing analysis. Sediment samples were taken from depths of 0.5 m and 1.5 m from all geomorphological features identified. The geochemical analysis included determination of Cr, V, Sr, Ba, Ni, Cu, Co, As, Pb and Zn concentrations. Results indicate that the main factors affecting the pattern of features in the floodplain of this area are (1) the highly dynamic flood flow in the narrow section of the gorge and (2) the relief of the top surface of the sub-alluvial basement. The variable concentrations of trace elements are closely related to the floodplain features. Their concentrations can be considered as valuable geochemical proxies that enable a more thorough reconstruction of the sedimentary evolution of the Vistula River Valley and other similar river valleys, especially in gorge sections.
Structure and Properties of the Tool Ceramics with Hard Wear Resistant Coatings
Authors: Pakuła D. , Staszuk M. , Gołombek K. , Śliwa A. , Mikuła J.
Published: October 2016

This work presents studies of the structure and functional properties of coatings deposited onto indexable inserts made of nitride and sialon tool ceramics with the required properties, i.e. high adhesion, microhardness, high resistance to abrasive and diffusion wear in working conditions of high-performance cuttings tools. In the present paper the results of the investigations of the structure, texture, mechanical and functional properties of the Ti(C,N), (Ti,Al)N, Ti(C,N)+(Ti,Al)N coatings were presented. The 80% increase in the hardness of the coatings in comparison to the substrate material was reported. Test coatings are characterized by good adhesion to the substrate. The maximum Lc load of (Ti,Al)N coat applied to the substrate from the nitride ceramics is equal to 42 N. In the studied coatings compressive stresses were found. The results of mechanical properties investigations, especially tribological ones correlate with the results of exploitation tests carried out during the cutting test.
Effect of Heat Treatment on Microstructural Changes in Aluminium Bronze
Authors: Hájek J. , Kříž A. , Chocholaty O. , Pakuła D.
Published: October 2016

This paper attempts to summarise the microstructural changes which take place in aluminium bronzes during heat treatment. Another objective of this study was to map the potential of a certain type of aluminium bronzes for undergoing martensitic transformation. The methods, which were chosen for assessing the results of heat treatment with regard to their availability, included measurement of hardness and observation of microstructure using light and scanning electron microscopy, Additional tools for evaluation of microstructure comprised measurement of microhardness and chemical analysis by EDS. An important part of the experiment is observation of microstructural changes in the Jominy bar during the end-quench test. Upon completing experiments of this kind, one can define the heat treatment conditions necessary for obtaining optimum properties. In addition, the paper presents important findings on how to improve the corrosion resistance of aluminium bronzes by special heat treatment sequences.
Surface Quality Research for Selective Laser Melting of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy
Authors: Król M. , Tański T.
Published: October 2016

One of the innovative technology of producing the components is Selective Laser Melting (SLM) belongs to additive manufacturing techniques. SLM technology has already been successfully applied in the automotive, aerospace and medical industries. Despite progress in material flexibility and mechanical performances, relatively poor surface finish still presents a significant weakness in the SLM process.

The scope of the present article is the study the influence of selective laser melting parameters such as laser power, scanning speed, exposure time and hatch spacing through additive manufacturing as well as the orientation of the model corresponding to the laser beam on the surface characteristic of the components made from Ti-6Al-4V alloy. By using optimized process parameters, a low surface roughness can be obtained.

In research, the machine for the selective laser melting of metal powders Renishaw AM 125 device was used. Based on experiment plan, 32 models were produced, which were examined to define the surface roughness and thus represent an influence of process parameters and the orientation on the model surface quality.

The article discusses the fundamental factors determining the roughness that gives invaluable knowledge to improve the surface quality of SLM parts.
Empirical Formulas for the Calculations of the Hardness of Steels Cooled From the Austenitizing Temperature
Authors: Trzaska J.
Published: October 2016

In this paper, the equations applied for the purpose of the calculations of the hardness of continuously cooled structural steels upon the basis of the temperature of austenitizing. The independent variables of the hardness model were: the mass concentrations of elements, the austenitizing temperature and the cooling rate. The equations were developed with the application of the following methods: multiple regression and logistic regression. In this paper, attention was paid to preparing data for the purpose of calculations, to the methodology of the calculations, and also to the assessment of the quality of developed formulas. The collection of empirical data was prepared upon the basis of more than 500 CCT diagrams.
The Service Life of the Repair Welded Joint of Cr-Mo / Cr-Mo-V
Authors: Sroka M. , Zieliński A. , Mikuła J.
Published: October 2016

This paper presents the evaluation of the service life of dissimilar repair welded joint from Cr-Mo/Cr-Mo-V steel after 200,000 h service under creep condition. The investigations of microstructure using scanning electron microscopy, investigations of mechanical properties at room and elevated temperature as well as creep tests of the basic material from Cr-Mo and Cr-Mo-V steel and welded joint from these steels were carried out. The investigations allowed the time of further safe operation of the repair welded joint in relation to the residual life of the materials to be determined. The evaluation of residual life and disposable residual life, and thus the estimation or determination of possible time of further safe operation, is crucial when the elements are operated much beyond the design work time.
The Effect of Laser Surface Treatment on Structure and Mechanical Properties Aluminium Alloy ENAC-AlMg9
Authors: Pakieła W. , Dobrzański L.A. , Labisz K. , Tański T. , Basa K. , Roszak M.
Published: October 2016

In this work, the influence of a high power diode laser surface treatment on the structure and properties of aluminium alloy has been determined. The aim of this study was to improve the mechanical and tribological properties of the surface layer of the aluminium alloy by simultaneously melting and feeding tungsten carbide particles into the molten pool. During the process was used high-power diode laser HPDL. In order to remelt the aluminium alloy surface the HPDL laser of 1.8, 2.0 and 2.2 kW laser beam power has been used. The linear laser scan rate of the beam was set 0.5 cm/s. In order to protect the liquid metal during laser treatment was used argon. As a base material was used aluminium alloy ENAC-AlMg9. To improve the surface mechanical and wear properties of the applied aluminium alloy was used biphasic tungsten carbide WC/W2C. The size of alloying powder was in the range 110-210 µm. The ceramic powder was introduced in the remelting zone by a gravity feeder at a constant rate of 8 g/m.
Testing of Flame Sprayed Al2O3 Matrix Coatings Containing TiO2
Authors: Czupryński A. , Górka J. , Adamiak M. , Tomiczek B.
Published: October 2016

The paper presents the results of the properties of flame sprayed ceramic coatings using oxide ceramic materials coating of a powdered aluminium oxide (Al2O3) matrix with 3% titanium oxide (TiO2) applied to unalloyed S235JR grade structural steel. A primer consisting of a metallic Ni-Al-Mo based powder has been applied to plates with dimensions of 5×200×300 mm and front surfaces of Ø40×50 mm cylinders. Flame spraying of primer coating was made using a RotoTec 80 torch, and an external coating was made with a CastoDyn DS 8000 torch. Evaluation of the coating properties was conducted using metallographic testing, phase composition research, measurement of microhardness, substrate coating adhesion (acc. to EN 582:1996 standard), erosion wear resistance (acc. to ASTM G76-95 standard), and abrasive wear resistance (acc. to ASTM G65 standard) and thermal impact. The testing performed has demonstrated that flame spraying with 97% Al2O3 powder containing 3% TiO2 performed in a range of parameters allows for obtaining high-quality ceramic coatings with thickness up to ca. 500 µm on a steel base. Spray coating possesses a structure consisting mainly of aluminium oxide and a small amount of NiAl10O16 and NiAl32O49 phases. The bonding primer coat sprayed with the Ni-Al-Mo powder to the steel substrate and external coating sprayed with the 97% Al2O3 powder with 3% TiO2 addition demonstrates mechanical bonding characteristics. The coating is characterized by a high adhesion to the base amounting to 6.5 MPa. Average hardness of the external coating is ca. 780 HV. The obtained coatings are characterized by high erosion and abrasive wear resistance and the resistance to effects of cyclic thermal shock.
Development of Surface Modification Methods for Religaheart® Cardiac Support System
Authors: Major R. , Kustosz R. , Trembecka-Wójciga K. , Lackner J. M. , Major B.
Published: October 2016

The work is a review of the methods of the surface modification performed by the authors dedicated for for cardiac support system. It presents the evolution of designing the surface dedicated to direct contact with blood. Initially thin and ultrathin coatings were developed. They were designed as a blood-polymer barrier. The pneumatic heart assist devices are made of a medical grade polyurethane. A major milestone was to create advanced ceramic thin films expressing the flexible effects deposited by physical techniques. Coatings have evolved. Another milestone was the surface reproducing the microenvironment to capture progenitor cells from the bloodstream. Thin coatings were prepared, using methods of ion been, controlled residual stresses were introduced. Wrinkles appeared without cracking. This enabled taking control over the process of cell differentiation. Alternatively, the tissue inspired structure resulted of the coating in the form of extracellular matrix. The outer surface was modified with synthetic materials. This enabled the effective proteins docking to induce cell growth, recreating the luminal side of the blood vessel. Coagulation processes have been slowed down. In addition, it was found pro-angiogenic effect.
Application of the Sol-Gel Method at the Fabrication of PLZT:Yb3+ Ceramics
Authors: Osińska K. , Płońska M. , Marzec A.
Published: October 2016

The aim of presented study was to obtain the PLZT:Yb3+ ceramics. Nanopowders of itterbium doped PLZT materials were synthesized by the sol-gel method from high quality metaloorganic precursors, as lead (II) acetate, lanthanum acetate, ytterbium acetate, zirconium (IV) propoxide and titanium (IV) propoxide. Anhydrous acetic acid and n-propyl alcohol were used as solvents, while acetyloacetone was added as stabilizer of hydrolysis reactions. Thermal evolution of the dried gels, before and after calcination, was studied by the simultaneous thermal analysis. The amorphous PLZT:Yb3+ gels were first calcined in the furnace at T = 850°C, and then mixed in the planetary ball mill. Additionally, the mean particle sizes were calculated by means of powder specific surface area measurements, based on the BET physical adsorption isotherm. Such obtained powders were subsequently pressed into pellets, and sintered by the free sintering method at temperature T = 1250°C / 6h. The morphology of fabricated PLZT:Yb3+ ceramic powders and samples was studied using Scanning Electron Microscopy. Chemical characterization of samples was carried on using the Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy - EDS system. Studies provided detailed data concerning the relationships between doping and preparing conditions on the basic physical and chemical properties of obtained ceramic materials.
PLZT Microfibers Technology Optimization
Authors: Kozielski L. , Adamczyk M. , Feliksik K. , Bochenek D. , Clemens F.
Published: October 2016

Electrocaloric (EC) structures for a new generation of cooling or heating elements utilize the temperature dependence of spontaneous polarization in some ferroelectric materials to convert waste heat into electricity and vice versa. A (Pb0.93La0.07) (Zr0.65Ti0.35)O3 material, have the largest recorded pyroelectric coefficient. An effective predicted form for such applications is fiber, due to small heat capacitance and quick response time, even for nano second laser excitation. Consequently, the presented work provides a description of the optimization of structural, ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties of obtained fibers, finally concluding on necessity of sintering temperature reduction in 100°C in contrast to bulk form to effectively prevent its destruction.
Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3–δ–La0.6Sr0.4Co0.8Fe0.2O3–δ Composite Cathode for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell
Authors: Mosiałek M. , Kędra A. , Krzan M. , Bielańska E. , Tatko M.
Published: October 2016

Composite cathodes contain Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3–δ and La0.6Sr0.4Co0.8Fe0.2O3–δ were tested in different configuration for achieving cathode of area specific resistance lower than Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3–δ and La0.6Sr0.4Co0.8Fe0.2O3–δ cathodes. Electrodes were screen printed on samaria-doped ceria electrolyte half-discs and tested in the three electrode setup by the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Microstructure was observed by scanning electron microscopy. The lowest area specific resistance 0.46 and 2.77 Ω cm−2 at 700 °C and 600 °C respectively revealed composite cathode contain Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3–δ and La0.6Sr0.4Co0.8Fe0.2O3–δ in 1:1 weight ratio. The area specific resistance of this cathode is characterized by the lowest activation energy among tested cathodes.
Ferrite Decarburization of High Silicon Spring Steel in Three Temperature Ranges
Authors: Zhao F. , Zhang C.L. , Liu Y.Z.
Published: October 2016

Surface decarburization of high silicon spring steel in ambient air was studied. The experimental results confirmed the decarburized mechanism under AC1 temperature, in the temperature range of AC1-AC3 and AC3-G. Under AC1 temperature, pearlite spheroidization and surface decarburization are carried out simultaneously and pearlite spheroidization is reinforced. Considering the oxidation loss depth, the “true ferrite decarburized depth” at 850 °C (AC3-G) is still smaller than that at 760°C (AC1-AC3). That is because an “incubation period” must pass away before ferrite decarburization occurs in the temperature range of AC3-G, and the ferrite decarburized rate is limited to being equal to the partial decarburized rate.
Voids Nucleation at Inclusions of Various Shapes in Front of the Crack in Plane Strain
Authors: Neimitz A. , Janus U.
Published: October 2016

An analysis is presented of the stress field in and around inclusions of various shapes. Results were obtained by the finite element method. Inclusions were located within elementary cells located at the centre of the specimen next to the crack front. The influence of an in-plane constraint on the stress distribution was tested.
Fractography and Porosity Analysis of Cr and Cr-Mo PM Steels
Authors: Kulecki P. , Lichańska E. , Radziszewska A. , Sułowski M.
Published: October 2016

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of processing variables on the porosity and fractography of Cr and Cr-Mo PM steels. The measurements were performed on sintered steels made from commercial Höganäs pre-alloyed powders: Astaloy CrA, Astaloy CrL and Astaloy CrM with two different carbon concentrations (0.2% and 0.6%) added in the form of ultra fine graphite powder grade C-UF. Following mixing in Turbula mixer for 30 minutes, green compacts were single-action pressed at 660 MPa according to PN-EN ISO 2740 standard. Sintering was carried out in a laboratory horizontal tube furnace at 1120°C and 1250°C for 60 minutes, in an atmosphere containing 5%H2and 95%N2. After sintering, the samples were tempered at 200°C for 60 minutes in air. For porosity evaluation computer software was employed. Hitachi S-3500M SEM equipped with EDS (made by Noran) was employed for fracture analysis. The steel based on Astaloy CrM pre-alloyed powder is characterized by fine pores and good mechanical properties. When sintered at 1250°C, it had area of pores approx. 7.12 μm2, ultimate tensile strength (UTS) about 679 MPa and elongation about 4%. The steels were characterized by ductile/cleavage and ductile fractures.
Creep Resistance of VM12 Steel
Authors: Zieliński A. , Golański G. , Dobrzański J. , Sroka M.
Published: October 2016

This article presents selected material characteristics of VM12 steel used for elements of boilers with super- and ultra-critical steam parameters. In particular, abridged and long-term creep tests with and without elongation measurement during testing and investigations of microstructural changes due to long-term impact of temperature and stress were carried out. The practical aspect of the use of creep test results in forecasting the durability of materials operating under creep conditions was presented. The characteristics of steels with regard to creep tests developed in this paper are used in assessment of changes in functional properties of the material of elements operating under creep conditions.
An Analysis of the Joints’ Properties of Fine-Grained Steel Welded by the MAG and SAW Methods
Authors: Krawczyk R.
Published: October 2016

The article presents an analysis of properties of welded joints of fine-grained steel of P460NH type used more and more often in the modern constructions. A process of examining a technology of welding has been carried out on the thick-walled butt joints of sheet metal by two methods of welding namely MAG – 135 and SAW – 121. The article deals with a topic of optimizing a process of welding thick-walled welded joints of fine-grained steel due to their mechanicalproperties and efficiency.
Exact and Numerical Elastic Analysis for the FGM Thick-Walled Cylindrical Pressure Vessels with Exponentially-Varying Properties
Authors: Nejad M. Zamani , Abedi M. , Lotfian M.H. , Ghannad M.
Published: October 2016

Assuming exponential-varying properties in the radial direction and based on the elasticity theory, an exact closed-form analytical solution is obtained to elastic analysis of FGM thick-walled cylindrical pressure vessels in the plane strain condition. Following this, radial distribution of radial displacement, radial stress, and circumferential stress are plotted for different values of material inhomogeneity constant. The displacements and stresses distributions are compared with the solutions of the finite element method (FEM).
Relationship Between Bake Hardening, Snoek-Köster and Dislocation-Enhanced Snoek Peaks in Coarse Grained Low Carbon Steel
Authors: Li Weijuan , Zhao Shengshi , Zhang Hengyi , Jin Xiaolong
Published: October 2016

In the present work, specimens prepared from coarse grained low carbon steel with different prestrains were baked and then, their bake hardening (BH) property and internal friction were determined. TEM was used to characterize the dislocation structure in BH treated samples. The measurements of internal friction in prestrained samples and baked samples were carried out using a multifunctional internal friction apparatus. The results indicate that, in coarse grained low carbon steel, the bake hardening properties (BH values) were negative, which were increased by increasing the prestrain from 2 to 5%, and then were decreased by increasing the prestrain from 5 to 10%. In the specimen with prestrain 5%, the BH value reached the maximum value and the height of Snoek-Köster peak was observed to be the maximum alike. With increasing the prestrain, both of the BH value and Snoek-Köster peak heights are similarly varied. It is concluded that Snoek-Köster and dislocation-enhanced Snoek peaks, caused by the interactions between interstitial solute carbon atoms and dislocations, can be used in further development of the bake hardening steels.
Low-Frequency Mechanical Spectroscopy of Lanthanum Cobaltite Based Mixed Conducting Oxides
Authors: Wu Xiu Sheng , Cao Ju Fang , Chen Zhi Jun , Liu Wei
Published: October 2016

The low-frequency mechanical spectra of lanthanum cobaltite based mixed conducting oxides have been measured using a computer-controlled inverted torsion pendulum. The results indicate that the internal friction spectra and shear modulus depend on the Sr doping contents (x). For undoped samples, no internal friction peak is observed. However, for La0.8Sr0.2CoO3‒δ, three internal friction peaks (P2, P3 and P4) are observed. In addition to these peaks, two more peaks (P0 and P1) are observed in La0.6Sr0.4CoO3‒δ. The P0 and P1 peaks show characteristics of a phase transition, while the P2, P3 and P4 peaks are of relaxation-type. Our analysis suggests that the P0 peak is due to a phase separation and the P1 peak is related to the ferromagnetic–paramagnetic phase transition. The P2, P3 and P4 peaks are associated with the motion of domain walls. The formation of this kind of domain structure is a consequence of a transformation from the paraelastic cubic phase to the ferroelastic rhombohedral phase. With partial substitution of Fe for Co, only one peak is observed, which is discussed as a result of different microstructure.
The Influence of Sensitivity Field of Dual Transducer Probes on Accuracy of Discontinuity Sizing and Evaluation in Terms of Testing of Forgings According to EN 10228-3
Authors: Kaczmarek R. , Kaczmarek K.
Published: October 2016

The article presents results of research on the impact of sensitivity distribution of double transducer probes, which are often used in non-destructive ultrasonic testing of components such as forgings. Distribution of sensitivity measured in two orientations, parallel and perpendicular to the plane of separation of a double transducer probe has been tested and analyzed. A significant influence of orientation of a probe on echo envelope of an artificial point discontinuity has been studied. It has revealed great differences in length and shape of an echo envelope, depending on a type of probe and orientation of a probe separation plane to the moving direction. Eventually, the analysis of practical consequences of dual transducer probes usage for characterization of a type, dimensioning and evaluation of internal discontinuities, in accordance to the methodology specified in EN 10228, has been conducted.
Material Factors in Relation to Development Time in Liquid-Penetrant Inspection. Part 2. Investigation Programme and Preliminary Tests
Authors: Irek P. , Słania J.
Published: October 2016

The paper is the continuation of the previous one entitled “Material factors in relation to development time in liquid-penetrant inspection. Part 1. Material factors” in which the material factors influencing essentially the development time in penetrant testing have been marked out. These are: type of material, surface roughness and imperfection width. In the paper it has been described how to prepare the factorial plan which will enable to test every factor with taking into account its different values. Moreover, it has been presented investigations on natural cracks, their width and roughness profile what will allow to assign suitable values of independent variables to the factorial plan. The purpose of the plan prepared in such a way will be the determination of the influence of the material kind, surface roughness and discontinuity width on the development time in penetrant testing.
Use of Taguchi Method and Grey Relational Analysis to Optimize Multiple Yarn Characteristics in Open-End Rotor Spinning
Authors: Hussain Tanveer , Arain Farooq Ahmed , Malik Zulfiqar Ali
Published: October 2016

Rotor speed and twist per metres (tpm) are two key parameters in open-end rotor spinning of cotton yarns. High spinning productivity can be obtained by keeping the rotor speed high and twist level as low as possible. However, too high rotor speed may result in yarn imperfections and too low twist level may result in lower tenacity yarns. This study aimed at optimising the multiple yarn characteristics in open-end rotor spinning using the Taguchi method and the grey relational analysis. Cotton yarn samples of 30 tex were produced on rotor spinning machine with different twist levels (i.e. 500, 550, 600 and 700 tpm) at different rotor speeds (i.e. 70,000, 80,000, 90,000 and 100,000 rpm) according to the Taguchi design of experiment. Optimal spinning process parameters were determined using the grey relational grade as the performance index. It was concluded that for the cotton fibres and yarn count used in this study, optimum properties of the yarns could be obtained at 90,000 rpm rotor speed and 700 tpm.
FT-IR spectroscopic and thermal study of waterborne polyurethane-acrylate leather coatings using tartaric acid as an ionomer
Authors: Bahadur Ali , Shoaib Muhammad , Saeed Aamer , Iqbal Shahid
Published: October 2016

Waterborne polyurethane (WDPU) comprising polycaprolactone diol and hexamethylene diisocyanate was prepared by using tartaric acid (TA) as an ionomer. WDPU was further modified with polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). Hybrid WDPU-PMMA coatings were formed by using unsaturate end capping agents such as 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate. WDPU-PMMA blend coatings were formed by using chain extenders such as ethylene glycol, ethylene diamine and mixed with PMMA. Thermal behavior and structural characterizations were investigated by means of thermogravimetric analysis and Fourier transformm infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, respectively. Chemical and solvent resistance was checked against various chemicals and solvents. Bio-stability was evaluated in CoCl2/H2O2 solution. Gloss, film flexibility, tackiness, abrasion resistance and adhesive prosperities of WDPU-PMMA coatings were also checked by applying these coatings on a leather sheet.
Lp
-theory of boundary integral operators for domains with unbounded smooth boundary
Authors: Rabinovich Vladimir
Published: October 2016

The paper is devoted to the

L
p

${L^{p}}$

-theory of boundary integral operators for boundary value problems described by anisotropic Helmholtz operators with variable coefficients in unbounded domains with unbounded smooth boundary.
We prove the invertibility of boundary integral operators for Dirichlet and Neumann problems in the Bessel-potential spaces

H

s
,
p

⁢

(

∂
⁡
D

)

${H^{s,p}(\partial D)}$

,

p
∈

(
1
,
∞
)

${p\in(1,\infty)}$

, and the Besov spaces

B

p
,
q

s

⁢

(

∂
⁡
D

)

${B_{p,q}^{s}(\partial D)}$

,

p
,
q

∈

[
1
,
∞
]

${p,q\in[1,\infty]}$

.
We prove also the Fredholmness of the Robin problem in these spaces and give the index formula.