bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creep Properties of Heat Affected Zone in Heterogeneous Welded Rotor
Authors: Dzugan Jan , Novy Zbysek , Konopik Pavel , Podany Pavel , Folková Eva
Published: March 2024

Increasing demand on efficiency and power output of steam generators leads to new designs of welded rotors. The reason for rotor welding is the large size of rotors, which are difficult to produce in a single piece. Secondly, as there are varying operation conditions along the rotor length. In a heterogeneous rotor, several materials appropriate for local service conditions can be used. At the rotor service temperatures, creep properties are crucial for successful design. The weakest point of every welded component is the heat affected zone. Therefore, the creep properties of a heterogeneous weld are subject of the investigation herein the current study, a heterogeneous weld of COST F and COST FB2 materials is investigated. The welding was performed by multi pass technique with overlaying welding beads that applied several heating cycles to heat affected zone. Metallographic investigation of the weld was performed and the weakest microstructure spots were detected. With the use of FEM simulation, appropriate heating/cooling cycles were obtained for the detected weak points. The temperature cycles obtained were subsequently applied to both base materials under laboratory conditions by induction heating. Creep properties of these materials were investigated. The influence of the initial base material’s grain size was also considered in the investigation. Two heating/cooling schedules were applied to both base materials with two grain sizes. Altogether, 8 different microstructures were examined in short term creep tests and the results were summarized.
Investigations on the Degradation Mechanism of Welded Joints of Advanced 9%Cr-Mo-Co-B Steel Used for 620°C USC Steam Turbine
Authors: Gong Xiufang , Gao Zhenhuan , Nie Liping , Zhang Bo , Jiang Lei , Zhang Bangqiang , Yang Gongxian , Zhang Congping
Published: March 2024

The creep rupture properties of welded joints of advanced 9%Cr-Mo-Co-B steel used for 620°C USC steam turbine have been studied. The welded joints were prepared by means of shielded metal arc welding (SMAW). A lot of creep tests have been conducted and the results indicate that fracture usually occurs in the intercritical heat affected zone (ICHAZ) of the welded joint and is typical of Type IV cracking. The microstructure of the HAZ has been investigated by using optical microscopy, SEM and TEM. The degradation mechanism of welded joint of the 9%Cr-Mo-Co-B steel has been explored by analysing the phases of precipitates. Creep voids were observed in the vicinity of the coarse Laves phase particles, resulting in the degradation of the creep rupture properties.
Creep Degradation and Life Assessment of High Temperature Welds
Authors: Masuyama Fujimitsu , Yamaguchi Tomiko
Published: March 2024

In order to improve thermal efficiency of fossil-fired power plants through increasing steam temperature and pressure high strength martensitic 9-12%Cr steels have extensively been used, and some power plants have experienced creep failure in high temperature welds after several years operations. The creep failure and degradation in welds of longitudinally seam-welded Cr- Mo steel pipes and Cr-Mo steel tubes of dissimilar metal welded joint after long-term service are also well known. The creep degradation in welds initiates as creep cavity formation under the multi-axial stress conditions. For the safety use of high temperature welds in power plant components, the complete understanding of the creep degradation and establishment of creep life assessment for the welds is essential. In this paper creep degradation and initiation mechanism in welds of Cr-Mo steels and high strength martensitic 9-12%Cr steels are reviewed and compared. And also since the non-destructive creep life assessment techniques for the Type IV creep degradation and failure in high strength martensitic 9-12%Cr steel welds are not yet practically established and applied, a candidate way based on the hardness creep life model developed by the authors would be demonstrated as well as the investigation results on the creep cavity formation behavior in the welds. Additionally from the aspect of safety issues on welds design an experimental approach to consider the weld joint influence factors (WJIF) would also be presented based on the creep rupture data of the large size cross-weld specimens and component welds.
Effect of Non-Standard Heat Treatments on Creep Performance of Creep-Strength Enhanced Ferritic (CSEF) Steel Weldments
Authors: Yamamoto Yukinori , Santella Michael L. , Yu Xinghua , Suresh Babu Sudarsanam
Published: March 2024

This paper summarizes recent efforts to improve creep performance in Grade 91 (Mod. 9Cr-1Mo, ASTM A387) steel weldments via non-standard heat treatments prior to welding. Such heat treatments offer a potential solution for minimizing Type IV failures in creep strength enhanced ferritic (CSEF) steels. A lower temperature tempering (LTT, 650°C) of the 9Cr steels prior to gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) resulted in improved creep-rupture life at 650°C compared to the samples tempered at a standard condition (HTT, 760°C) before welding. From detailed characterization of precipitation kinetics in the heat affected zone, it was hypothesized that M23C6 carbides in the fine-grain heat-affected zone (FGHAZ) in the LTT sample were fully dissolved, resulting in re-precipitation of strengthening carbides during post weld heat treatment (PWHT). This was not the case in the HTT sample since M23C6 in the FGHAZ was only partially dissolved prior to welding, which caused coarsening of existing M23C6 after PWHT and premature creep failure in the FGHAZ. However, it was also found that the LTT raised the ductile-brittle transition temperature above room temperature (RT). Two different thermo-mechanical treatments (TMTs); two-step tempering and aus-forging/aus-aging, of the modified 9Cr-1Mo steels were attempted, in order to control the balance between creep properties and RT ductility, through control of precipitation kinetics of the M23C6 carbides and/or MX carbo-nitrides. The hardness map of the TMT samples after GTAW and PWHT were evaluated.
Precipitation Strengthening by the Nitrides in High Cr Containing Ferritic Creep Resistant Steels
Authors: Shinozaki Ippei , Hasegawa Yasushi
Published: March 2024

High nitrogen steel was manufactured by solid state nitriding and Laminate- rolling at laboratory to study the nitride morphology and creep properties through the TEM, EPMA and creep strain test. Nitriding made the nitride dispersing steels possible. Solid state nitriding of thin plates and those laminate rolling enabled the high nitrogen containing thick plate steel. Precipitated coarse nitrides during the nitriding resolved by normalizing and re-precipitated by tempering finely. Needle type VN was detected in V containing high nitrogen steels. Its coherency seems to affect the creep strength significantly. V precipitated steels indicated the higher creep strength than the steels without VN precipitation. Thermodynamically stable precipitates like VN increases the creep rupture strength. Ti and Zr containing high nitrogen steels also will be evaluated and discussed by the presentation.
Precipitation Process of Z-Phase in 9-12%Cr Steels
Authors: Danielsen Hilmar Kjartansson
Published: March 2024

Precipitation of Z-phase, Cr(V,Nb)N, is known to negatively affect creep properties of 9-12%Cr steels for power plant applications as it dissolves finely distributed MX particles, (V,Nb)N, especially in high Cr steels. As the Z-phase precipitates slowly as large particles, this causes a net drop in precipitation strengthening. Two model alloys containing 9 and 12%Cr, but otherwise having similar composition, were produced in order to quantify the difference in Z-phase precipitation speed at different Cr levels. The nitride precipitation behavior was followed at different temperatures using TEM and XRD, allowing for a quantification of the Z-phase precipitation. The Z-phase was found to precipitate 20-50 times faster in the 12%Cr steel compared to 9%Cr steel in the temperature range 600- 650°C. The transformation of MX into Z-phase was followed in a Ta containing alloy without V or Nb. In this alloy the Z-phase precipitates very quickly, and thus appears as finely distributed particles which have the same strengthening effect as MX particles. Investigations using atomic resolution microscopy showed how Cr diffuses from the matrix into the TaN MX particles and gradually transforms them both chemically and crystallographically into Z-phase CrTaN particles.
Alloy Design of Tempered Martensitic 9Cr-Boron Steel for A-USC Boilers
Authors: Abe F. , Tabuchi M. , Tsukamoto S. , Liu Y.
Published: March 2024

The addition of boron without the formation of any boron nitrides during normalizing heat treatment at high temperature minimizes the degradation in creep strength of both base metal and welded joints of 9Cr steel at 650 °C and long times. The enrichment of soluble boron near prior austenite grain boundaries (PAGBs) by the segregation is essential for the reduction of coarsening rate of M23C6 carbides in the vicinity of PAGBs, enhancing boundary and subboundary hardening, and also for the production of same microstructure between the base metal and heat-affected-zone (HAZ) in welded joints, indicating no Type IV fracture in HAZ. Excess addition of boron and nitrogen promotes the formation of boron nitrides during normalizing, which reduces the soluble boron concentration and accelerates the degradation in creep rupture ductility at long times. 9Cr- 3W-3Co-VNb steel with 120 - 150 ppm boron and 60 - 90 ppm nitrogen (MARBN) exhibits not only much higher creep strength of base metal than Gr.92 but also substantially no degradation in creep strength due to Type IV fracture at 650 °C. The pre-oxidation treatment in Ar gas promotes the formation of protective Cr2O3 scale on the surface of 9Cr steel, which significantly improves the oxidation resistance in steam at 650 °C.
Modelling and Optimizing Precipitation in Creep Resistant Austenitic Steel 25Cr-20Ni-Nb-N
Authors: Stojan Vujic , Coline Beal , Christof Sommitsch , Farooq Muhammad , Rolf Sandström , Joanna Zurek
Published: March 2024

25Cr-20Ni-Nb-N (Tp310HCbN) steel is a promising austenitic steel for applications in superheater tubes in coal fired thermal power plants due to the high creep strength and oxidation resistance. In this work, the microstructural evolution of this material during heat treatment and thermal ageing has been investigated. The investigations were carried out by Light Optical Microscopy (LOM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). Besides, equilibrium and Scheil calculations were carried out using the thermodynamic software MatCalc to analyse the stable phases and the solidification process, respectively. Precipitation calculations during solution annealing and subsequent ageing at 650 and 750°C were performed to predict the phase fraction and precipitates radius up to 10.000h ageing time. SEM and TEM investigations of aged specimens revealed the presence of six different precipitates: M23C6, Cr2N, sigma, Z-phase, eta-phase (Cr3Ni2Si(C,N)) and Nb(C,N). These precipitates were predicted and confirmed by MatCalc simulations. The calculated phase fraction and mean radius show good agreement with experimental data. Finally, simulations of different Cr-, C- and N-content in Tp310HCbN were performed.
Development of Boiler Risk Management and Life Prediction System
Authors: Yaojun Li , Dapeng Wang , Shuxue Li
Published: March 2024

Addressing the growing concern of supercritical and ultra-supercritical boilers as potential safety hazards in power plants, a new Boiler Risk Management and Life Prediction System (BRMLPS) has been developed. This system leverages risk-based inspection and assessment techniques alongside life prediction and management methods. The BRMLPS focuses on evaluating and ranking the risk associated with critical boiler components, such as heating surfaces, headers, and drums. This risk assessment allows for the development of targeted and efficient inspection plans and repair strategies, ultimately aiming to minimize accident rates, reduce potential losses, and optimize safety investments. By implementing this system, power plants can achieve maintenance optimization, balancing safety and economic considerations for their specialized equipment.
Harmonizing of Creep-Fatigue Test Methods through Development of ASTM Standards
Authors: Saxena Ashok , Kalyanasundaram Valliappa , Narasimhachary Santosh B. , Holdsworth Stuart R.
Published: March 2024

Creep-fatigue crack formation (endurance) and crack growth rate data are necessary inputs for assessing the structural integrity and for estimating the design life of high temperature components in power generation and aircraft engine industries. Ensuring consistency in the reported test data, as well as an understanding of the inherent scatter and its source in the data, are both necessary for assuring quality and limitations of the analyses that rely on the data. In 2008, the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) under the umbrella of its subcommittees E08.05 on Cyclic Deformation and Crack Formation and E08.06 on Crack Growth, and the sponsorship of Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) through its international experts’ working group on creep-fatigue embarked on the task of developing separate standard test methods for creep-fatigue crack formation and creep-fatigue crack growth. The first standard entitled, “E-2714-09: Standard Test Method for Creep-fatigue Testing” was developed in 2009 and was followed up with a round-robin consisting of 13 laboratories around the world for testing the newly developed standard. This paper discusses the results of this round-robin concluded in 2012 using the widely used P91 steel that led to the formulation of the Precision and Bias statement contained in the version of the ASTM standard E2714 that was successfully balloted in the year 2013.
Application of New GMAW Welding Methods Used in Prefabrication of P92 (X10CrWMoVNb9-2) Pipe Butt Welds
Authors: Urzynicok Michael , Kwieciński Krzysztof , Słania Jacek , Mariani Paola , Szubryt Marian
Published: March 2024

Welding of collector pipes, flat heads, dished ends and connector pipes performed with high temperature and creep-resistant steels most often has been performed using GTAW process combined with MMA processes. Progress in GMAW process and availability of high quality filler materials (solid wires) enables welding of the above connections also using this method. In order to prove its efficiency, this article presents the results of related tests. The range of tests was similar to that applied during the qualification of welding procedure. The investigation also involved microscopic and fractographic examinations and creep tests. The results reveal that welding with GMAW is by no means inferior to a currently applied SMAW method yet the time of the process is shorter by 50%. The article presents the world’s first known positive results in welding of P92 grade steel using GMAW welding method.
An Extended Small Punch Test Method for Providing Measured Displacements Across a Test Specimen
Authors: Crocker L.E. , Fry A.T. , Banks J.
Published: March 2024

A prototype small punch test rig has been developed to extend the range of data output. Through the introduction of a probe, vertical displacements can be measured across a region of the specimen underside. This information provides much greater understanding of the specimen deformation. Having displacement data at a series of measurement points also facilitates the calculation of strains across the sample. The probe can also be used during a test to provide time dependent data from small punch creep tests. The measured displacement data have been used in conjunction with FE analysis to determine a set of calibration curves for inferring strain at any given vertical displacement. Some creep strain data are also presented.
The Cross-Weld Performance of 9%Cr Creep-Resistant Steels, and the Influence of Welding Parameters
Authors: Rothwell John , Mayr Peter
Published: March 2024

9-12%Cr martensitic-ferritic steels continue to be developed for target temperatures of 650°C. This paper reviews the performance of two experimental European steels against the performance of the better known grade 92 alloy. It comments on the problem of type IV cracking and the effect of welding variables on cross-weld creep performance. Preliminary results from an on-going creep test programme are presented in context, and the findings compared with published data.
Evaluation of Long Term Creep Strength of 9Cr Heat Resistant Ferritic Steel Containing Boron with the Aid of System Free Energy Concept
Authors: Shioda Yoshiki , Fujii Shohei , Murata Yoshinori , Hasegawa Yasushi
Published: March 2024

Prediction of long-term creep strength is an important issue for industrial plants operated at elevated temperatures, although the creep strength of high Cr ferritic steels depends on their microstructural evolution during creep. The state of microstructure in metallic materials can be expressed as numerical values based on a concept of system free energy. In this study, in order to evaluate long term creep strength of 9Cr ferritic steel containing B, change in the system free energy during creep of the steel is evaluated as the sum of chemical free energy, strain energy and surface energy, which are obtained by a series of experiments, i.e., chemical analysis using extracted residues, X-ray diffraction, and scanning transmission electron microscopy. The system free energy decreases with creep time. Change in the energy is expressed quantitatively as a numerical formula using the rate constants which depend on applied stress. On the basis of these facts, long term creep strength of the steel can be evaluated at both 948K(675°C) and 973K(700 °C).
Creep Crack Growth in T23 Weldments
Authors: Siefert J.A. , Foulds J.R.
Published: March 2024

The use of the bainitic creep strength enhanced ferritic steel T/P23 has increased over the last decade in a wide range of applications including headers, superheater and reheater tubing and in waterwall tubing. Many issues have been reported in weldments of this material, such as hydrogen induced cracking, reheat cracking and stress corrosion cracking. In order to help characterize high temperature cracking phenomena, including reheat cracking, a limited number of laboratory creep crack growth tests are being conducted as part of an ongoing project. Tests were run on as-welded sections with the test specimen crack-tip located in select zones of the weldment. Test temperatures are intended to bookend the range of applications from a waterwall condition of ~482°C (900°F) to the superheat/reheat condition of 565°C (1050°F). This paper describes the results of some early testing at 482°C (900°F). The tests provided useful insight into the cracking susceptibility of the material at this temperature with respect to not only time-dependent cracking, but also fatigue crack growth and fracture toughness. The paper includes details of the test method and results, as well as findings from post-test metallographic examinations of the tested specimens.
Creep Rupture Properties of Ni-Base Superalloy USC141 as Solution Treated for 700°C Class A-USC Boiler
Authors: Uehara Toshihiro , Aoki Chuya , Ohno Takehiro , Schraven Patrik , Kamoshida Hironori , Imano Shinya
Published: March 2024

Low thermal expansion precipitation strengthening Ni-base superalloy, Ni-20Cr-10Mo-1.2Al-1.6Ti alloy (USC141TM), was developed for 700°C class A-USC steam turbine material by Hitachi, Ltd and Hitachi Metals, Ltd. USC141 is usually solution treated and then aged to increase high temperature strength for turbine blades and bolts. As the estimated 105h creep rupture strength at 700°C is about 180MPa, USC141 could also be expected to apply for boiler tubes. On the other hand, this alloy seems to be only solution treated to apply for boiler tubes because tubes are usually jointed by welding and bended by cold working and thus tube alloys should have low hardness before welding and bending and should be used as solution treated. In this study, the creep properties of USC141 as solution treated was evaluated, and the results and microstructures after creep tests were compared with those as aged. As a result, USC141 as solution treated exhibited almost as same creep rupture properties as that as aged because precipitation at grain boundaries and in grains gradually increased at testing temperatures around 700°C. Furthermore seamless tubes of USC141 were produced and various properties including creep properties are now being evaluated.
Direktör Âli Bey’in Geç Keşfedilmiş Bir El Yazması Eseri: “Küçük Bir Seyahat”
Authors: ERDOĞAN Batuhan
Published: March 2024

Tanzimat Dönemi ediplerinden Direktör Âli Bey (1846-1899) piyes, hikâye ve mizah alanlarının yanı sıra seyahatname türünde de eserler veren bir yazardır. Yazarın bu türde yazılmış Seyahat Jurnali adlı eseri dışında, edebiyat tarihlerinde yer almayan ve Hakkı Tarık Us tarafından 1940 yılında Mizancı Murat’a atfedilmiş “Küçük Bir Seyahat” başlıklı bir eseri daha bulunmaktadır. Bu çalışmanın ilk bölümünde “Küçük Bir Seyahat”in ortaya çıkış süreci ve Us’un tefrika hâlinde yayımladığı metin ile Muallim Cevdet Yazmaları arasında bulunan el yazmasının farklılıkları ele alınmıştır. İkinci bölümde “Küçük Bir Seyahat”, seyahatname türünün özellikleri ve yazarın bu türdeki diğer eseri dikkate alınarak incelenmiştir. Âli Bey’in fikirlerinden hareketle, uzun süreli yolculukları anlatan “mühim” seyahatler ile kısa menzilli “küçük” seyahatlerin anlatı unsurlarını etkilediği sonucuna ulaşılmıştır. Ayrıca bu bölümde, gezi sırasında ziyaret edilen yerlerin ve aralarında Türk edebiyatının önemli isimlerinden Ahmet Mithat Efendi’nin de bulunduğu yol arkadaşlarının yazarda bıraktığı izlenimler değerlendirilmeye çalışılmıştır.
Destûr ve Düstûr Şiirleri Üzerine Bazı Tespitler
Authors: TOPCU Mümin
Published: March 2024

Edebî eserlerimizin bütünüyle tespit edilip tür ve şekil bilgisinin tamamen belirlenememesi nedeniyle bazı edebî ürünlerimizin belirleyici özellikleri ortaya konulamamıştır. “Destûr” ve “düstûr” türü şiirler de bunlardandır. Bir cönkte rastladığımız Şeydâyî, Cemâlî, Hulûsî ve Niyâzî mahlaslı şairlere ait “düstûr” başlıklı dört şiir ilgimizi çekti. Konuyu araştırdığımızda bu şiirler, “destûr” olarak adlandırılmış ve 13. yüzyıldaki “yort savul” ile ilişkilendirilmiştir. Örnekleri az olan bu şiirlerin 19. ve 20. yüzyılda da benzer bir üslûpla devam ettiği belirtilmiş fakat bunların tür mü tarz mı olduğu tartışılmış ve bir neticeye varılamamıştır.

İncelemelerimiz sonucunda “destûr” ve “düstûr” kelimelerinin yazılışlarının aynı olmasının bir belirsizliğe neden olduğu kanaatine vardık. Makalede bu düşünceden hareketle edebiyatımızda “destûr” ve “düstûr” adlı birbirinden farklı iki şiir grubunun oluştuğu iddiasından hareket edeceğiz. Önce Farsça kökenli “destûr” türü ile izin isteme konulu şiirleri kısaca gözden geçireceğiz. Sonra Arapça kökenli “düstûr” kelimesinden hareketle, yazmalarda yer aldığını gördüğümüz “düstûr” başlıklı “sihr-i helâl” tarzı ile yazılmış şiirleri inceleyip bu şiir türlerini tanımaya çalışacağız.
Association of Low Back Pain Beyond Mid-Pregnancy with Maternal Physical Activity Prior to Pregnancy: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Boonpradit Rarinthip , Sudsaneha Wanpanithan , Khuancharee Kitsarawut , Raungrongmorakot Kasem
Published: March 2024

Objective: 1) To compare the proportions of low back pain (LBP) in pregnant women with adequate and inadequate physical activity (APA and IPA, respectively) prior to pregnancy. 2) To identify possible factors associated with LBP during pregnancy. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional analytic study was conducted. Pregnant women answered questions about their physical activity prior to and during pregnancy, using the Thai version of the short International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and assessed their lower back pain via the visual analog scale and the Thai version of the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Results: A total of 342 pregnant women were enrolled. APA and IPA prior to pregnancy were detected in 172 and 170 cases, respectively. The proportions of LBP during pregnancy in each group were 61.6% and 64.7%, respectively. No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups (p-value=0.555). When adjusted with multiple factors in logistic regression model, APA prior to pregnancy decreased the risk of LBP during pregnancy (p-value=0.02), with an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) (95% CI) of 0.51 (0.281–0.916). In contrast, APA during pregnancy (p-value=0.01), pelvic pain (p-value<0.001), and LBP in a previous pregnancy (p-value<0.001) increased the risk of LBP during pregnancy, with aORs (95% CI) of 2.53 (1.236–5.197), 4.83 (2.563–9.110), and 7.49 (3.390–16.570), respectively. Conclusion: APA prior to pregnancy and limiting some types of activity during pregnancy may have a protective effect on LBP during pregnancy.
Brak zwrotu opłaty sądowej jako przeszkoda do zawierania ugody pozasądowej
Authors: Kasprzak Karolina
Published: March 2024

„Nawet kiepska ugoda jest lepsza od najlepszego wyroku sądowego” (Morek, 2011, s. 86) – niniejsza teza wydaje się jak najbardziej uzasadniona, mając na uwadze nie tylko aspekty ekonomiczne, takie jak szybkość postępowania czy też jego koszty, ale także aspekty psychologiczne. Przyjmuje się bowiem, że zgodne porozumienie stron cechuje się większą motywacją do wykonania zobowiązań przez nich sformułowanych, niż te, które narzuca na nie sąd. W wypadku ugody powinny być realizowane interesy każdej ze stron (chociażby w części), dlatego mogą się one czuć zwycięzcami. W obliczu długich postępowań sądowych oraz wiążących się z nimi wysokimi kosztami niezbędne jest implikowanie do procedury cywilnej alternatywnych metod rozstrzygania sporów. Pomimo wzrastającego nacisku na przeprowadzenie reform, które nakłonią petentów do rozwiązywania sporów w drodze mediacji czy też ugody przed sądem, nowelizacji wymagają także unormowania dotyczące polubownego załatwienia sprawy na mocy ugody pozasądowej, kiedy spór już zawisł przed sądem, w szczególności w ustawie z dnia 28 lipca 2005 r. o kosztach sądowych w sprawach cywilnych (Ustawa, 2005). Podkreślenia wymaga, że dążenie do ugodowego załatwienia spraw cywilnych jest jedną z podstawowych funkcji sądu.
Analisis Informasi Anatomi Pemeriksaan MRI Ankle Joint pada Penggunaan Foot Ankle Coil dan Flex Coil Proton Density Fat Saturation Irisan Sagital
Authors: Kartikasari Yeti , Kurniawan Andrey Nino , Hidayat Subhan Syarif
Published: March 2024

Background: To get good MRI image quality, a special coil is designed according to the type of examination with various types and sizes so that it can be adjusted to the body to be examined so that the selection of coil is very important in MRI examination. At Dr.R.Soeharso Surakarta Orthopedi Hospital, it was found on an MRI examination of the  ankle joint using a foot ankle  coil and also sometimes also using a flex coil. The purpose of this study was to determine the difference in anatomical information of ankle joint MRI examination on Proton Density Fat Saturation Sagittal Slices using foot ankle coil and flex coil.   Methods: This research is quantitative research with an experimental approach. This research was conducted on 10 volunteers. Respondents assessed image information on the anatomy of the Achilles tendon, talocalcaneal ligament, tibiofibular ligament, talofibular ligament, talotibial ligament, tenton flexor digitorum, extensor digitorum tendon, os calcaneus, os tallus, os tibia. Results: Ten probandus were performed MRI examination of ankle joint, proton density weighting, sagittal slice using foot ankle coil and flex coil. Images are produced that can show predetermined anatomical information, namely: Achilles tendon, talocalcaneal ligament, tibiofibular ligament, talofibular ligament, talotibial ligament, tenton flexor digitorum, extensor digitorum tendon, os calcaneus, os tallus, os tibia. Based on Wilcoxon's nonparametric statistical test in table shows that the resulting p value is 0.001 (p-value is 0.05) which means that there is a significant difference in the overall anatomical information of ankle joint MRI examination on the use of foot ankle coil and flex coil proton density fat saturation sagittal slices and mean rank results (28.50) foot ankle coil (0,001) flex coil.Conclusions: The anatomical information produced in the use of foot ankle coil is better than the anatomical information produced by flex coil on MRI examination of ankle joint proton density fat saturation sagittal slice.
Theory of Mind in Huntington’s Disease: A Systematic Review of 20 Years of Research
Authors: Escudero-Cabarcas Johana , Pineda-Alhucema Wilmar , Martinez-Banfi Martha , Acosta-López Johan E. , Cervantes-Henriquez Martha L. , Mejía-Segura Elsy , Jiménez-Figueroa Giomar , Sánchez-Barros Cristian , Puentes-Rozo Pedro J. , Noguera-Machacón Luz M. , Ahmad Mostapha , de la Hoz Moisés , Vélez Jorge I. , Arcos-Burgos Mauricio , Pineda David A. , Sánchez Manuel
Published: March 2024

Background: People with Huntington’s disease (HD) exhibit neurocognitive alterations throughout the disease, including deficits in social cognitive processes such as Theory of Mind (ToM). Objective: The aim is to identify methodologies and ToM instruments employed in HD, alongside relevant findings, within the scientific literature of the past two decades. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search for relevant papers in the SCOPUS, PubMed, APA-PsyArticles, Web of Science, Redalyc, and SciELO databases. In the selection process, we specifically focused on studies that included individuals with a confirmed genetic status of HD and investigated ToM functioning in patients with and without motor symptoms. The systematic review followed the PRISMA protocol. Results: A total of 27 papers were selected for this systematic review, covering the period from 2003 to 2023. The findings consistently indicate that ToM is globally affected in patients with manifest motor symptoms. In individuals without motor symptoms, impairments are focused on the affective dimensions of ToM. Conclusions: Based on our analysis, affective ToM could be considered a potential biomarker for HD. Therefore, it is recommended that ToM assessment be included as part of neuropsychological evaluation protocols in clinical settings. Suchinclusion could aid in the identification of early stages of the disease and provide new opportunities for treatment, particularly with emerging drugs like antisense oligomers. The Prospero registration number for this review is CRD42020209769.
Natural History of Mandibular Function in Spinal Muscular Atrophy Types 2 and 3
Authors: van Bruggen H. Willemijn , Wijngaarde Camiel A. , Asselman Faylynn , Stam Marloes , Creugers Nico H.J. , Wadman Renske I. , van der Pol W. Ludo , Kalaykova Stanimira I.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Hereditary proximal spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is characterized by abnormal alpha motor neuron function in brainstem and spinal cord. Bulbar dysfunction, including limited mouth opening, is present in the majority of patients with SMA but it is unknown if and how these problems change during disease course.

Objective:

In this prospective, observational, longitudinal natural history study we aimed to study bulbar dysfunction in patients with SMA types 2 and 3.

Methods:

We included 44 patients with SMA types 2 and 3 (mean age was 33.6 (95% CI 28.4;38.9) and re-examined them after on average 4 years. None were treated with SMN-modulating treatments before or during the course of this study. Longitudinal assessments included a questionnaire on mandibular and bulbar function, the Mandibular Function Impairment Questionnaire (MFIQ), and a clinical examination of masticatory performance, maximum voluntary bite force, and mandibular movements including the active maximal mouth opening.

Results:

We found significant higher MFIQ scores and a significant decrease of all mandibular movements in patients with SMA type 2 ( p < 0.001), but not in SMA type 3. Masticatory performance and maximum voluntary bite force did not change significantly. Mean reduction of active maximal mouth opening at follow-up was 3.5 mm in SMA type 2 (95% CI: 2.3; 4.7, p < 0.001). SMA type 2 was an independent predictor for a more severe reduction of the mouth opening (β= –2.0 mm (95% CI: –3.8; –0.1, p = 0.043)).

Conclusions:

Bulbar functions such as mandibular mobility and active maximum mouth opening decrease significantly over the course of four years in patients with SMA type 2.
Gait Adaptability and the Effect of Ocular Disorders on Visually Guided Walking in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Borm Carlijn D.J.M. , De Graaf Debbie , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Theelen Thomas , Hoyng Carel , de Vries Nienke , Weerdesteyn Vivian
Published: March 2024

Gait disorders are a disabling feature of Parkinson’s disease (PD). To avoid falls, people with PD should be able to adequately adapt their gait. This requires correct response inhibition and integration of visual information. In this small pilot study, we investigated PD-related impairments in gait adaptability and the influence of ocular disorders thereon.

Compared with controls, persons with PD were less able to adapt their gait in unexpected situations (U = 21.5, p = 0.013), with only a small influence of ocular disorders on precision stepping (U = 6, p = 0.012 in the ML-direction and in the AP-direction, (U = 20, p = 0.456).

This shows that people with PD have more difficulty with precision stepping than healthy controls and experience more problems with adapting their gait. We found only a small impact of ocular disorders on successfully execute precision stepping. The ability to adapt gait, particularly in challenging environmental conditions or with impaired vision, may provide a useful assessment and training option for fall prevention in PD.
Parkinson’s Disease in Sub-Saharan Africa: Pesticides as a Double-Edged Sword
Authors: Urasa Sarah J. , Dekker Marieke C.J. , Howlett William P. , Mwezi Raphael J. , Dorsey E. Ray , Bloem Bastiaan R.
Published: March 2024

Long-term exposure to pesticides used in agriculture is increasingly being identified as a risk factor for developing Parkinson’s disease. How chronic pesticide exposure might contribute to the growth of Parkinson’s disease in the mainly agricultural communities of Sub-Saharan Africa has thus far received limited attention. There are specific concerns in this area of the world: aging of the population, in combination with chronic exposure to widely used pesticides, including those that have been restricted elsewhere in the world because of neurotoxicity and other health risks. Of interest, the prevalence of Parkinson’s disease among specific (semi)nomadic populations in Tanzania seems very low, possibly due to their lack of exposure to agricultural chemicals. But at the same time, pesticides have also brought important benefits to this part of the world. Specifically, in Sub-Saharan Africa, pesticides have been directly helpful in preventing and controlling famine and in containing major human infectious diseases. This creates a complex risk-benefit ratio to the use of pesticides within a global perspective, and urgently calls for the development and implementation of affordable alternatives for areas such as Sub-Saharan Africa, including non-neurotoxic compounds and non-chemical alternatives for the use of pesticides.
Dimensional assessment of self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms by workers: A multi-case study
Authors: Serafim Rômulo Silva , Bispo Lucas Gomes Miranda , da Silva Jonhatan Magno Norte , da Silva Joel Gomes
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) encompass a range of conditions affecting muscles, tendons, and nerves. Visual diagrams are widely used to identify symptoms and to generate musculoskeletal discomfort metrics. However, there is no consensus on the number of discomfort dimensions that can originate from self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms by individuals. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to test the fit of WMSD symptom models from workers in two samples of different sizes. METHODS: A combination of Full-Information Item Factor Analysis (FIFA) and Item Response Theory (IRT) was utilized to analyze and test the models. The study was conducted in two samples of workers (n1 = 6944 and n2 = 420) who had their symptoms identified with the aid of a human body diagram. An analysis was conducted considering each sample’s unidimensional and three multidimensional models. RESULTS: The unidimensional model (general musculoskeletal discomfort), bi-dimensional model (discomfort in upper and lower body), and tridimensional model (discomfort in the upper limbs, lower limbs, and trunk) showed good values of factor loading and communalities, along with satisfactory item discrimination ability. Regardless of sample size, parameter estimation for IRT and FIFA proceeded without issues, presenting suitable fit parameters. CONCLUSION: Three models were valid and reliable for more extensive and smaller samples. However, the tridimensional model was best for generating discomfort scores in body regions. Companies and safety professionals can use these findings to devise strategies to mitigate musculoskeletal pains based on perceived symptom locations.
The Internet of Things (IoT) in World Practice: Review and Analysis
Authors: Vlasenko Myroslava , Khlaponin Yurii
Published: March 2024

This article explores the contemporary realm of the Internet of Things (IoT) and its influence on society and the economy. The primary emphasis lies in examining the principal patterns within the realm of IoT, encompassing the escalation of connected device quantities and the utilisation of 5G networks. The article encompasses various facets, including an overview of the evolution and possibilities of IoT, encompassing the advancement of intelligent urban areas and the influence of 5G networks. The analysis of threats and vulnerabilities related to this technology focuses on detecting common flaws, including weak passwords, unsecured network services, and inadequate privacy measures.

Furthermore, the essay presents concrete hazards in diverse sectors that employ IoT technology. Particular emphasis is given to potential cybersecurity vulnerabilities in healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, retail, transport and logistics, energy, and smart cities. These businesses have distinct challenges and hazards due to incorporating IoT technologies.

The authors also analyse the substantial financial commitment to IoT and its profound influence on the worldwide economy, including data on the expansion of the IoT market and investments in IoT technologies and smart cities. The findings emphasise that the Internet of Things (IoT) substantially influences society and the economy. However, it necessitates meticulous consideration of cybersecurity and privacy concerns. The authors underscore the significance of creating efficacious cyber security policies to safeguard against the possible hazards presented by IoT technology.
Study of on-board equipment of modern uavs
Authors: Mamich Viktor , Semchak Oleksandr , Buz Anatoly , Chkalov Artur , Korol Dmytro
Published: March 2024

This paper analyzes the development and production of modern unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). It is noted that they have the following main systems: glider; propulsion system; power supply system; management system; navigation system; telemetry system; radio communication system. All UAV systems are interconnected and work as one complex mechanism. Depending on the list of combat tasks to be solved, the following devices can be additionally installed on board the UAV: optical-electronic, thermal imaging, radar, radiotechnical, radiation, chemical, bacteriological and other types of reconnaissance systems with small intelligence storage systems; means of setting active radio-electronic jammers; means of aiming and adjusting guided weapons; various means of defeat; means of control and communication with the ground control point; responsible for the state identification system; autonomous flight and automatic landing devices. The work reveals the features of the UAV engine design, it is noted that 4, 6 or more engines are installed on modern helicopter-type UAVs, so-called "multicopters", "quadracopters", "drones". In this work, it is noted that the UAV navigation equipment can have various level of complexity and use several signals coming from sensors of different physical origins to calculate its location. The features of the UAV radio communication system are revealed, which is a set of various lines through which intelligence information of various levels of importance and protection is transmitted. All communication links can use different frequency bands and different relay modes, use different signal-code designs, specially adapted to the importance of the intelligence information being transmitted. It was noted that in the absence of a control command, the UAV goes into autonomous flight mode.
CONCEPTOS PREPONDERANTES DE LA DEMOCRACIA EN EL MONETARISMO NEOLIBERAL. IDENTIFICACIÓN A PARTIR DE LOS DERECHOS HUMANOS
Authors: Herrera Torres Hugo Amador , Arias Torres Daniela
Published: March 2024

El objetivo del artículo es definir los cambios de posición que experimentaron los conceptos de la democracia con el monetarismo neoliberal. Las teorías políticas de los derechos humanos proporcionan precisamente los conceptos principales de la democracia. Los resultados muestran que el monetarismo neoliberal al presentar al mercado como espacio extraordinario para la autorrealización de los ciudadanos, quita al Estado las funciones que buscan garantizar la satisfacción de los derechos económicos, sociales y culturales. El mercado es el nuevo encargado de generar la igualdad concreta. El Estado, que ahora es mínimo, tiene la consigna de asegurar los derechos civiles y políticos que produzcan los ambientes más propicios para la autorrealización. El Estado afianza entonces la igualdad abstracta. Los nexos de este tipo de igualdad con la libertad negativa son directos y altos. El monetarismo neoliberal para su mejor funcionamiento necesita, por tanto, del modelo de democracia representativo procedimental.
Covid-19 Öncesi, Süreci ve Sonrasında Turist Rehberlerinin Ekonomik Kazançlarına ve Beklentilerine Yönelik Bir Araştırma
Authors: Altun Selin , Dinçer Mithat
Published: March 2024

Dinamik bir yapıya sahip olan turizm sektörü, Covid-19 pandemi sürecinden olumsuz yönde etkilenenler arasındadır. Turist-çevre ve turist-yerel halk ilişkisinde aracı bir rol üstlenen ve ülkesinin imajını yansıtan turist rehberleri de diğer turizm personeli gibi pandemi nedeniyle hiç çalışamamışlar veya az çalışarak ekonomik olarak zor bir dönem geçirmişlerdir. Araştırmanın temel amacı, turist rehberlerinin Covid-19 öncesi ve sürecindeki ekonomik kazançlarına, bu süreçte yaşadıkları sorunlara ve Covid-19 sonrası ekonomik beklentilere yönelik pandemi etkisini ortaya çıkarmaktır. Araştırmada 30 turist rehberi ile yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme gerçekleştirilmiştir. Görüşmeler sonucu elde edilen bilgiler ışığında, Covid-19 öncesi ve sürecindeki turist rehberlerinin ekonomik kazançları, Covid-19 sonrası ekonomik beklentileriyle ilgili veriler üç ana ve 10 alt temada değerlendirilerek içerik analiz tekniğiyle incelenmiştir. Araştırma sonucunda, turist rehberlerinin pandeminin ilk altı ayı ekonomik kazanç elde edemedikleri ve pandemi döneminde ise düşük ücretler altında çalışmak zorunda kaldıkları ortaya çıkmıştır.
Sürdürülebilir Turizm Kavramsallaştırması Üzerine Bibliyometrik Bir Analiz
Authors: Erdoğan Hatice , Zaman Serhat
Published: March 2024

Bu araştırma bilim haritalama tekniği ile sürdürülebilir turizm kavramını incelemeyi ve kavramsallaştırmayı amaçlamaktadır. Scopus veri tabanından 2013-2023 yılları arasında “sustainable tourism” anahtar kelimesi ile yayınlanan makaleler araştırılmıştır. Araştırmanın bilim alanı social sciences ve environmental science, earth and planetary sciences, arts and humanities ve multidisciplinary olarak sınırlandırılmıştır. 3133 makale ile analiz gerçekleştirilmiştir. Analiz VOSviewer yazılımı ile gerçekleştirilmiştir. Analiz ile atıflar, dokümanlar, yazarlar, ülkeler, anahtar kelimeler, dergiler ve kurumlar incelenmiştir. Bu sayede araştırma alanındaki küme, tema ve bağlantılar belirlenmiştir. Küme ve bağlantılar, sürdürülebilir turizm araştırma alanındaki farklı perspektif ve metodolojilerin mevcudiyetini ortaya koymaktadır. Küme, tema ve bağlantılar arasındaki yakınlık ve hiyerarşi, farklı perspektif ve metodolojiler arasındaki diyalogu temsil etmektedir. Son olarak anahtar kelime analizi ile odak temalar belirlenmiştir. Araştırma alanının kavramsal yapısının anlaşılmasına imkân veren bu metodoloji sayesinde sürdürülebilir turizmin toplumun, sektörün ve karar vericilerin ihtiyaçlarına cevap veren önemli bir kavram olduğu ortaya konulmuştur
Destinasyon Pazarlamasında Çok Kültürlülük ve Gastronominin Rolü
Authors: Uzkesici Dora , Gürdal İlke
Published: March 2024

Destinasyon pazarlaması kapsamında gastronominin artan bir önemi bulunmaktadır. Doğu Akdeniz’de yer alan Kuzey Kıbrıs Türk Cumhuriyeti (KKTC) tarih boyunca edindiği çok kültürlü yapısını gastronomi ürünleri ile çeşitlendirmiş ve önemli bir gastronomi merkezi olma potansiyelini barındırmaktadır. Araştırmanın problemi, destinasyon pazarlaması boyutlarından olan gastronominin destinasyon pazarlaması kapsamında KKTC’deki mevcut durumunun ve potansiyelinin ortaya konmamasıdır. Çalışmanın amacı, KKTC’nin çok kültürlü yapısının gastronomideki rolünü tespit etmek ve gastronominin destinasyon pazarlaması kapsamında bu ülkedeki mevcut durumunu ve gelecekte kullanabileceği potansiyelini ortaya çıkarabilmektir. Araştırmada nitel araştırma yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Veriler, amaçlı örnekleme yöntemiyle seçilen ve gastronomi ürünlerini sunan beş yıldızlı otellerin şeflerinden oluşan katılımcılardan toplanmıştır. Veriler tematik içerik analizi uygulanmıştır. Elde edilen veriler KKTC’nin çok kültürlü yapısının adaya özgü birçok yiyecek içecek ürünü meydana getirdiğini ortaya koymaktadır. Buna karşılık işletmelerde KKTC’ye özgü yiyecek içecek ürünleri sunulmasına rağmen ziyaretçilerin turizm öncelikleri arasında gastronomi turizmi olmadığı anlaşılmıştır. KKTC gastronomisinin önemli bir potansiyel taşıdığı, bu potansiyelin değerlendirilebilmesi için kamu kuruluşları başta olmak üzere tanıtım faaliyetlerinin geliştirilmesi gerektiği anlaşılmıştır.
Acculturative Stress of Asian International Students before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Cong Menglong , Dong Yixiao , Chao Ruth
Published: March 2024

Acculturative stress may hamper international students' ability to succeed in the United States of America. This study analyzed the impact of a range of factors noted in the literature and compared the levels of stress they were related to before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. We collected three waves of data (total responses = 204) via an online survey from ten universities/colleges across different regions in the United States of America. The results indicated that English proficiency and sex predicted the overall acculturative stress of Asian international students, in which higher perceived English proficiency predicted a lower perceived acculturative stress, and female Asian international students experienced higher acculturative stress than males. Also, Asian international students are experiencing more sadness during the pandemic and their peers are more discriminated against during 2020. Thus, university administrators should promote English language programs and support services (e.g., gender specific student support) to effectively address Asian students’ concerns.