bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring the Human Ultra-Weak Photon Emission Distribution Using an Electron-Multiplying, Charge-Coupled Device as a Sensor
Authors: Ortega-Ojeda Fernando , Calcerrada Matías , Ferrero Alejandro , Campos Joaquín , Garcia-Ruiz Carmen
Published: April 2018

Ultra-weak photon emission (UPE) is the spontaneous emission from living systems mainly attributed to oxidation reactions, in which reactive oxygen species (ROS) may play a major role. Given the capability of the next-generation electron-multiplying CCD (EMCCD) sensors and the easy use of liquid crystal tunable filters (LCTF), the aim of this work was to explore the potential of a simple UPE spectrometer to measure the UPE from a human hand. Thus, an easy setup was configured based on a dark box for inserting the subject’s hand prior to LCTF as a monochromator and an EMCCD sensor working in the full vertical binning mode (FVB) as a spectra detector. Under controlled conditions, both dark signals and left hand UPE were acquired by registering the UPE intensity at different selected wavelengths (400, 450, 500, 550, 600, 650, and 700 nm) during a period of 10 min each. Then, spurious signals were filtered out by ignoring the pixels whose values were clearly outside of the Gaussian distribution, and the dark signal was subtracted from the subject hand signal. The stepped spectrum with a peak of approximately 880 photons at 500 nm had a shape that agreed somewhat with previous reports, and agrees with previous UPE research that reported UPE from 420 to 570 nm, or 260 to 800 nm, with a range from 1 to 1000 photons s−1 cm−2. Obtaining the spectral distribution instead of the total intensity of the UPE represents a step forward in this field, as it may provide extra information about a subject’s personal states and relationship with ROS. A new generation of CCD sensors with lower dark signals, and spectrographs with a more uniform spectral transmittance, will open up new possibilities for configuring measuring systems in portable formats.
A Novel Strategy of Ambiguity Correction for the Improved Faraday Rotation Estimator in Linearly Full-Polarimetric SAR Data
Authors: Li Jinhui , Ji Yifei , Zhang Yongsheng , Zhang Qilei , Huang Haifeng , Dong Zhen
Published: April 2018

Spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) missions operating at low frequencies, such as L-band or P-band, are significantly influenced by the ionosphere. As one of the serious ionosphere effects, Faraday rotation (FR) is a remarkable distortion source for the polarimetric SAR (PolSAR) application. Various published FR estimators along with an improved one have been introduced to solve this issue, all of which are implemented by processing a set of PolSAR real data. The improved estimator exhibits optimal robustness based on performance analysis, especially in term of the system noise. However, all published estimators, including the improved estimator, suffer from a potential FR angle (FRA) ambiguity. A novel strategy of the ambiguity correction for those FR estimators is proposed and shown as a flow process, which is divided into pixel-level and image-level correction. The former is not yet recognized and thus is considered in particular. Finally, the validation experiments show a prominent performance of the proposed strategy.
Transitions to Adulthood and Generational Change in Portugal
Authors: Ramos Vasco
Published: April 2018

Much of the research on contemporary youth in Western societies has shown that transitions to adulthood are being postponed, protracted, and becoming more complex (i.e., less likely to follow a predictable and “orderly” sequence as in earlier generations). Extended schooling periods, changes in the labor market and challenges to obtaining autonomous housing are some of the top drivers for such change. Demographers interpret such developments as a sign of a second demographic transition, whereas sociologists stress that they are a consequence of the broader process of social individualization, by which individuals are assuming an increasingly central role in the organization of their lives. While in younger cohorts the evidence base is strong concerning transitions to adulthood, in some national contexts comparisons with the past rely on impressionistic accounts or to easily assume that some social, economic, and cultural factors were present. Drawing on data from the “Family Trajectories and Social Networks: The life course in an intergenerational perspective” research project, this paper re-examines the transitions to adulthood of three Portuguese cohorts (born in 1935–1940, 1950–1955 and 1970–1975), namely in what concerns their timing, duration, and sequence. This is achieved by looking at their life-calendars across different domains (namely family and intimate relations, school, and work). Analysis of the results allows us to discuss critically to what extent current transitions to adulthood are different and to assess cohort heterogeneity according to class and gender. Additionally, it enables us to frame discussions on generational and structural change more adequately in Portugal.
Study of the Cooling Effects of Urban Green Space in Harbin in Terms of Reducing the Heat Island Effect
Authors: Huang Meng , Cui Peng , He Xin
Published: April 2018

The urban heat island (UHI) effect might cause extreme weather, which would seriously affect people’s health, increase energy consumption and cause other negative impacts. To construct urban green spaces is a feasible strategy to effectively weaken the UHI effect. In this study, the cooling effect of green spaces on the UHI effect was carefully investigated in summer and winter in Harbin city. Specifically, the vegetation index and surface temperature information were extracted by the grid method, and based on this data, the relationship between the urban green space and the UHI effect was analyzed quantitatively. In summer, the cooling effect is more significant. The average cooling extent reached 1.65 °C, the average maximum temperature change was 7.5 °C, and the cooling range was mainly 120 m. The cooling effect can be improved by adjusting the green space area, perimeter and shape. Increasing the green area (within 37 ha) or the green circumference (within 5300 m) can most economically improve its cooling effect. The shape factor would significantly affect the cooling effect within 0.03. The simpler the green space shape, the more obvious the cooling effect. In contrast, in winter the green spaces had a certain cooling effect when there was no snow cover or little snow cover, although this was still less significant compared with the situation in summer. The average cooling extent reached 0.48 °C, the average maximum temperature change was 4.25 °C, and the cooling range was mainly 90 m. However, there is no correlation between urban green space and the UHI effect in areas mainly covered by ice and snow. This work could provide protocols for urban green space design to effectively control the UHI effect of sub-frigid cities.
Landfill Site Selection Using a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Method: A Case Study of the Salafcheghan Special Economic Zone, Iran
Authors: Yousefi Hossein , Javadzadeh Zahra , Noorollahi Younes , Yousefi-Sahzabi Amin
Published: April 2018

Sustainable waste management, particularly in industrial areas, is one of the major challenges of developing countries. Among the important issues in the overall process of industrial wastes management is the necessity of suitable site selection for waste disposal. Considering the effects that the disposal sites exert on their surrounding ecosystem and environment, these sites should be located in places with the minimum destructive effects and the lowest environmental impacts. The aim of this research is to outline important criteria for industrial zone waste disposal site selection and to select optimal and proper disposal sites in the Salafchegan special economic zone. This region, as one of the most important industrial areas and closest to the country’s political–economic center, enjoys a privileged and unique position for producing, exporting, and transiting goods and products. There are various parameters involved in the optimal selection of suitable industrial waste disposal sites. In this case study, issues such as the depth of groundwater, distance from surface- and groundwater, access routes, residential areas, industries, power transmission lines, flood-proneness, faults, slope, and distance from gardens and agricultural lands were taken into account. Following selection and preparation of the maps related to the influential parameters, assigning weights was done through the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and using expert comments. At this stage, the maps and weights related to them were introduced into an index overlay model to obtain new maps from combining the influential parameters. Thereafter, the areas with the first and second priorities were selected and out of each one, four sites were suggested for disposing of industrial wastes. The sites with the first and second priorities were specified as A1, A2, A3, and A4 and B1, B2, B3, and B4, respectively. The area, groundwater depth, distance from residential areas, distance from the Salafchegan special economic zone, the direction of the predominant wind, and the land use of the selected sites were also investigated.
Evaluation and Improvement of Lighting Efficiency in Working Spaces
Authors: Castillo-Martinez Ana , Medina-Merodio Jose-Amelio , Gutierrez-Martinez Jose-Maria , Aguado-Delgado Juan , De-Pablos-Heredero Carmen , Otón Salvador
Published: April 2018

Lighting is an essential element for modern life, promoting a sense of wellbeing for users. However, bad illumination may produce health problems such as headaches and fatigue, among other vision problems. For that reason, this paper proposes the development of a smartphone-based application to help in lighting evaluation to guarantee the compliance of illumination regulations and to help increase illuminance efficiency, reducing its energy consumption. To perform this evaluation, the smartphone can be used as a lighting measurement tool, evaluating those measurements through an intelligent agent based in rules capable of guiding the decision-making process. As a result, this tool allows the evaluation of the real working environment to guarantee lighting requirements, helping in the prevention of health problems derived from bad illumination and improving the lighting efficiency at the same time.
« Que cette demeure de Śrīpati dure sur terre... ». L'inscription préangkorienne K. 1254 du musée d'Angkor Borei
Authors: Goodall Dominic , Gerschheimer Gerdi
Published: April 2018

Cet article présente une stèle inscrite préangkorienne inédite dont l'écriture est d'une facture calligraphique exceptionnelle. Le texte ne contient pas de date, mais l'inscription relate l'installation d'une image de Viṣṇu par un certain Jayavarman, probablement le roi Jayavarman I bis du VIIIe siècle. À en juger par l'endroit où la stèle a été trouvée en 1993, le temple qui abritait cette image s'élevait sur la rive nord de la rivière qui coule à quelques dizaines de mètres du nouveau musée d'Angkor Borei. Les onze premières des vingt stances consistent en un hymne à la gloire de diverses manifestations (prādurbhāva ) de Viṣṇu ; cinq stances font ensuite l'éloge du roi, présenté comme une incarnation partielle de Viṣṇu ; puis deux strophes rapportent la fonte, apparemment en argent, et l'installation de l'image de Viṣṇu, Tribhuvanañjaya ; les deux dernières strophes mentionnent la création du temple – probablement en matériaux moins durables que la stèle, puisqu'aucune trace n'en subsiste – par un courtisan du roi (rājavallabha).
Henri Hubert et l’archéologie de l’Asie du Sud-Est. Un moment de formation personnelle et d’échanges intellectuels
Authors: Lorre Christine
Published: April 2018

Henri Hubert became attracted to Far Eastern archaeology and anthropology early in his carrier. In this connection, he soon engaged in an intellectual and friendly relationship with Enrico Hillyer Giglioli, the Head of the Museum of Natural History in Florence (Italy). They exchanged data and objects, coming particularly from Indonesia and Japan, at a time when so few European specialists paid attention to the material culture of ancient Asian people. This work relies on unpublished archives to disclose Hubert’s interest in Asian archaeological cultures, at a time when he participated in the Congress of Orientalists at Hanoi, and prepared the special room devoted to comparative archaeology at the Museum of National Archaeology.
Tous aux abris ! Les occupations du Paléolithique final et du Mésolithique dans les cavités naturelles du Massif armoricain
Authors: Marchand Grégor , Naudinot Nicolas
Published: April 2018

Si elles sont communes et même emblématiques dans le domaine de la Préhistoire, les fouilles dans les grottes ou abris-sous-roche sont très rares sur le Massif armoricain pour le Paléolithique final et le Mésolithique. Les travaux de terrain menés depuis 2007 dans certaines cavités du Finistère (Pont-Glas à Plounéour-Ménez, Kerbizien à Huelgoat et le Rocher de l’Impératrice à Plougastel-Daoulas) offrent un nouvel éclairage sur les manières d’habiter des espaces restreints. Une nouvelle étude est également proposée du mobilier de la seule grotte continentale de Bretagne, Roc’h Toul à Guiclan (Finistère), fouillée de manière pour le moins expéditive en 1868. Une première typologie de ces cavités et de leur remplissage pu être ensuite établie pour certains substrats géologiques seulement (granites et quartzites). À l’exception notable de la grotte marine effondrée de Ménez Drégan à Plouhinec (Finistère) occupée au Paléolithique ancien, la modicité des remplissages sédimentaires des cavernes armoricaines ne donne pas prise à des modélisations chronologiques de grande ampleur. L’intérêt qu’on leur porte est davantage dans la complémentarité fonctionnelle que leurs contenus archéologiques nous offrent en regard des sites de plein air. Dans le mobilier lithique, les phases d’usage et de réfection de l’outillage sont clairement surreprésentées, au détriment des phases de production. Cela plaide pour des usages logistiques de courte durée, dans des systèmes de mobilité différents, plus amples au Paléolithique final qu’au Mésolithique. Malgré leurs limites que cet article s’emploie à bien définir, ces premières fouilles ont bel et bien livré des signatures fonctionnelles très originales dans l’outillage ou dans les manifestations symboliques, qui engagent à réfléchir au rôle de ces petites cavernes dans les réseaux d’habitats du Paléolithique final et du Mésolithique.
On two forgotten European species of Coleoptera
Authors: Bousquet Yves
Published: April 2018

Two Coleoptera species described by Ferdinand Joseph Schmidt in 1834 have been forgotten. One, Chlaeniuscarniolicus, is placed here in synonymy with Chlaenius (Chlaenites) spoliatus (Rossi, 1792), while the other, Oedemeralippichii, is synonymized with Nacerdes (Xanthochroa) carniolica carniolica Gistel, 1834 (new synonymies). Chlaeniuscarniolicus Gistel, 1834, a primary homonym of C.carniolicus Schmidt, 1834 which has been forgotten too in the literature, is also placed in synonymy with Chlaeniusspoliatus (new synonym).
Degradation of food-derived opioid peptides by bifidobacteria
Authors: Sakurai T. , Yamada A. , Hashikura N. , Odamaki T. , Xiao J.-Z.
Published: April 2018

Some food-derived opioid peptides have been reported to cause diseases, such as gastrointestinal inflammation, celiac disease, and mental disorders. Bifidobacterium is a major member of the dominant human gut microbiota, particularly in the gut of infants. In this study, we evaluated the potential of Bifidobacterium in the degradation of food-derived opioid peptides. All strains tested showed some level of dipeptidyl peptidase activity, which is thought to be involved in the degradation of food-derived opioid peptides. However, this activity was higher in bifidobacterial strains that are commonly found in the intestines of human infants, such as Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum, B. longum subsp. infantis, Bifidobacterium breve and Bifidobacterium bifidum, than in those of other species, such as Bifidobacterium animalis and Bifidobacterium pseudolongum. In addition, some B. longum subsp. infantis and B. bifidum strains showed degradative activity in food-derived opioid peptides such as human and bovine milk-derived casomorphin-7 and wheat gluten-derived gliadorphin-7. A further screening of B. bifidum strains revealed some bifidobacterial strains that could degrade all three peptides. Our results revealed the potential of Bifidobacterium species in the degradation of food-derived opioid peptides, particularly for species commonly found in the intestine of infants. Selected strains of B. longum subsp. infantis and B. bifidum with high degradative capabilities can be used as probiotic microorganisms to eliminate food-derived opioid peptides and contribute to host health.
Through-Focus Optical Bench Performance of Extended Depth-of-Focus and Bifocal Intraocular Lenses Compared to a Monofocal Lens
Authors: Yoo Young-Sik , Whang Woong-Joo , Byun Yong-Soo , Piao Jun Jie , Kim Dae Yu , Joo Choun-Ki , Yoon Geunyoung
Published: April 2018

PURPOSE:

To analyze the optical performance and the effect of halos on modulation transfer function (MTF) of an extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) intraocular lens (IOL) compared to low add bifocal, high add bifocal, and monofocal IOLs.

METHODS:

The optical bench system was set up to evaluate the MTF and point spread function images for analyzing halos around the focused image with four different IOLs (TECNIS ZCB00, ZXR00, ZKB00, and ZMB00; Abbott Medical Optics, Inc., Santa Ana, CA). They were measured within a defocus range from +0.50 to −4.00 diopters (D).

RESULTS:

The EDOF IOL showed good and stable image quality from far to intermediate distance. The near visual performance was limited with the EDOF IOL compared to low add and high add power bifocal IOLs. Monofocal and EDOF IOLs focused light more tightly at far distance and showed higher intensity at the core compared to low and high add bifocal IOLs. The peak core intensity and the relative halo intensity of the EDOF IOL were comparable to those obtained from the monofocal IOL. A negative significant correlation was found in all IOLs between the relative halo intensity and MTF within a defocus diopter range from 0.00 to −3.00 D (
P
< .05).

CONCLUSIONS:

The EDOF IOL had distance acuity optical quality and halo effect similar to monofocal IOLs but worse near acuity compared to conventional bifocal IOLs.

[
J Refract Surg.
2018;34(4):236–243.]
Comparison of the Visual Performance After Implantation of Bifocal and Trifocal Intraocular Lenses Having an Identical Platform
Authors: Liu Xiaomin , Xie Lixin , Huang Yusen
Published: April 2018

PURPOSE:

To compare the visual performance after bilateral implantation of a diffractive bifocal or trifocal intraocular lens (IOL) from the same manufacturer using the same IOL platform.

METHODS:

This prospective, non-randomized, controlled study involved patients who had cataract surgery with bilateral implantation of bifocal or trifocal IOLs. The near, intermediate, and distance visual acuities, defocus curve, optical quality including modulation transfer functions and higher-order aberrations, National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire-14, patient satisfaction, spectacle independence, and perception of visual disturbances were assessed in all patients.

RESULTS:

Fifty eyes (25 patients) were implanted with a diffractive trifocal IOL (AT LISA tri 839MP; Carl Zeiss Meditec, Jena, Germany) and 60 eyes (30 patients) with a diffractive bifocal IOL (AT LISA 809M; Carl Zeiss Meditec). The follow-up was 3 months. No statistically significant difference was found in distance or near visual acuity between the two groups (
P
≥ .05). Uncorrected, corrected, and distance-corrected intermediate visual acuities were significantly better in the trifocal IOL group (
P
< .01). In the binocular defocus curve, the visual acuity was also significantly better for defocus of −1.00 to −2.00 diopters in eyes with trifocal IOL implantation (
P
< .01). Similar halos and glare were present in the two groups. The levels of overall satisfaction were similarly high between groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

Diffractive trifocal IOLs can provide significantly better intermediate vision and equivalent distance and near visual performance compared to bifocal IOLs and do not induce extra qualitative vision disturbances.

[
J Refract Surg.
2018;34(4):273–280.]
Early Readmission Risk Identification for Hospitalized Older Adults With Decompensated Heart Failure
Authors: Ayatollahi Yousef , Liu Xibei , Namazi Ali , Jaradat Mohammad , Yamashita Takashi , Shen Jay J. , Lee Yong-Jae , Upadhyay Soumya , Kim Sun Jung , Yoo Ji Won
Published: April 2018

The current study evaluated risk factors of early hospital readmission in geriatric patients with acute heart failure (HF) and analyzed 2,279 consecutively hospitalized older adults with decompensated HF from November 2013 to October 2014 across 15 U.S. hospitals. The eTracker-HF was designed to make risk factors known to treating clinicians in electronic health records. Multilevel multivariate logistic regression was applied to examine the association between risk factors and all-cause and HF 30-day readmission rates. All-cause and HF 30-day readmission rates were 22.3% and 9.8%, respectively. Old age, non-White ethnicity, delirium, physical impairment, ejection fraction <40%, advanced chronic kidney disease, and previous myocardial infarction were associated with all-cause and HF readmission. Home health care use was inversely associated with early readmission. In addition to demographic and cardiovascular risk factors, geriatric syndromes were associated with early readmission. Discharge to home health care may reduce early readmission in these patients.

[Res Gerontol Nurs. 2018; 11(4):190–197.]
Co-construcciones de redes energéticas. Acciones colectivas territoriales en Argentina, siglo XXI
Authors: Carrizo Silvina , Jacinto Guillermina
Published: April 2018

Acciones colectivas se ponen en marcha frente a los problemas y desafíos energéticos. En la interacción de los actores implicados avanzan proyectos de energía. La concepción y consolidación de los sistemas de manera consensual o sinérgica es definida como una co-construcción de redes energéticas. Por estas vías, infraestructuras, servicios, empleos, consideraciones ambientales y distintos aspectos territoriales acompañan la expansión de las redes energéticas. La investigación busca profundizar el conocimiento sobre sistemas energéticos inclusivos y equitativos. Se parte de revisar en la literatura internacional, mecanismos de promoción, seguimiento o medición que favorecen la atención de necesidades energéticas y de acciones colectivas como cooperativas, negocios inclusivos o auto-organización social. Se hipotetiza que en una co-construcción de redes energéticas, la articulación de actores, flexibilización de formas organizativas e hibridación de lógicas empresariales, facilitan la puesta en marcha de proyectos en territorios, espacial, social o económicamente marginados. El análisis se apoya en el estudio de casos en contextos distintos de Argentina: 1) servicios eléctricos a las poblaciones concentradas, aisladas o dispersas en provincia de Jujuy; 2) gasificación integral del barrio de Cuartel V de bajos recursos económicos, en la metrópolis de Buenos Aires y 3) tendido de una red de GLP en el pueblo rural de Roberts al Oeste de la provincia de Buenos Aires. Estas experiencias de co-construcción de redes energéticas, se convierten en ejemplos de los frutos de la organización comunitaria, al servicio de las necesidades territoriales y beneficios sociales. Enfrentar así los problemas y desafíos energéticos ofrece potencialidades de una construcción más efectiva, inclusiva y sostenible.
Aspectos da representação do território paulista em sua cartografia impressa: uma análise cartobibliográfica (1833-1932)
Authors: Beier José Rogério , Marhtin Daniel
Published: April 2018

O campo da História da Cartografia tem se desenvolvido amplamente nos últimos 30 anos, com um aumento crescente do número de trabalhos centrados no uso de mapas históricos como fontes para a compreensão de processos da história social e econômica de um dado lugar e momento. No entanto, ainda hoje um grande número de trabalhos produzidos por historiadores relega os mapas a uma categoria menor de documento ou, pior, utiliza-os de modo meramente ilustrativo ou de forma bastante pontual, geralmente relacionados à localização ou à topografia de seus recortes espaciais. Em sentido contrário, este artigo toma como principal objeto de análise as representações cartográficas produzidas sobre o território da Província, depois Estado de São Paulo entre 1833 e 1932, a fim de explicitar como, a partir de algumas técnicas ligadas ao campo da História da Cartografia, os mapas podem ser empregados como fontes para a produção de interpretações de processos da história social, cultural e econômica da sociedade que produziu estes mapas.
Analyse cartographique transfrontalière de la démographie à la frontière sud du Brésil
Authors: Lemos Bruno de Oliveira , Cargnin Antonio Paulo , Oliveira Suzana Beatriz de , Bertê Ana Maria de Aveline
Published: April 2018

A análise tem como finalidade analisar o comportamento das dinâmicas territoriais e demográficas na unidade da federação mais ao sul do Brasil, o Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, e dos países vizinhos, Uruguai e Argentina. A partir de estudos anteriores, realizados para o Estado, nos quais se verificou a intensificação de efeitos da transição demográfica e o esvaziamento da faixa de fronteira, procurou-se identificar similitudes nos países vizinhos e discutir as possíveis causas dessas dinâmicas. A análise dos dados demonstrou que a queda acentuada do crescimento demográfico também atinge fortemente o Uruguai, onde a população tende a se deslocar para a franja litorânea sul, nos departamentos de Maldonado, Canelones e San Jose. Na Argentina, a tendência se dá de forma menos intensa, com exceção de Misiones, que tem atraído população.
Uso do território e agricultura no Rio Grande do Norte: materialidades e estruturas
Authors: Locatel Celso Donizete
Published: April 2018

As atividades agrícolas, assim como os circuitos espaciais de produção que se constituem a partir delas, são de grande importância para a dinâmica econômica nacional e para o contexto econômico do estado do Rio Grande do Norte (RN). No caso do RN, as atividades agropecuárias contribuíam com 3,4% do PIB estadual, em 2016, além de ocupar mais de 30% da população economicamente ativa. Para se compreender o uso agrícola do território potiguar faz-se necessário considerar os sistemas de engenharia que vertebram o território, assim como os circuitos espaciais de produção agrícolas nele estruturados. Considerando essa afirmativa, tem-se como objetivo analisar o uso do território a partir dos principais circuitos espaciais de produção agrícola no estado, levando em consideração a densidade técnica dessa atividade e a seletividade em relação aos lugares. Com esse trabalho pôde-se constatar que a maior densidade técnica empregada em atividades agrícolas no RN está presente nos circuitos espaciais de produção de frutas tropicais para a exportação e no de cana de açúcar. Os circuitos espaciais de produção de gêneros alimentícios voltados para o mercado interno como milho, mandioca e feijão apresentam redução de área cultivada e baixo nível técnico. Constatou-se também que a baixa pluviosidade característica do clima semiárido não é fator determinante para a baixa produtividade dos circuitos mais tradicionais de alimentos, mas sim a baixa densidade técnica.
Behavior of Recycled Polypropylene with Glass Fibers at Different Temperature and their Charpy Impact and Hardness Properties
Authors: Senkerik Vojtech , Stanek Michal , Ovsik Martin
Published: April 2018

The aim of this paper is to investigate the behavior of the recycled polymer containing the filler. The recycled polymer under investigation is polypropylene with a glass fiber filler. During grinding of plastic waste particles are formed which have a different size, shape and surface, from larger pieces to dust particles. Several recycled mixtures were made, all from original material. Samples with different particle size of recycled material were subsequently tested by mechanical testing. Included tests were Charpy impact test and Shore hardness test. Testing was conducted at different temperatures; ambient 23 °C and increased temperatures 60 ° and 100 °C. The results show a very large effect on Charpy properties and a lesser influence on the hardness of these mixtures. Mixture of smallest dust particles indicates larges change of measured properties.
The Limits of Vacuum Infusion Technology during the Production of Filled Polymer Composite Systems
Authors: Rusnáková Soňa , Žaludek Milan
Published: April 2018

The vacuum infusion process (VIP) is suitable for production of bigger prototypes and low-series production, but their utilization is increasing because their low investment cost, comparability with high-tech technology (pre-preg), possibility to produce sandwich structures in one step and many various advantages.We verify the possibility of VIP to produce various prototypes with increasing degree of flame retarders, specifically aluminium hydroxide (ATH), which fulfil regiments to mechanical and Fire-Smoke-Toxicity (FST) properties according EN 45 545. Mechanical properties we confirmed by testing of bending properties according EN ISO 178 and tensile properties according EN ISO 527-4. FST properties were confirm by flammability test with hot wire according EN ISO 60695-2-11.
Observation of Shape and Dimensional Accuracy Changing of Parts in Time Intervals Manufactured by Additive Method Fused Deposition Modeling
Authors: Molnár Ivan , Hrušecký Róbert , Morovič Ladislav , Görög Augustín
Published: April 2018

This article deals with the observation of shape and dimensional accuracy of parts after manufacturing in certain time intervals. The parts was manufactured by additive manufacturing method Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). The shape and chosen dimension changes due to material shrinkage was observed on materials, namely Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PET-G). These materials rank among health-conscious and usable in some medical applications. The parts were measured by using coordinate measuring machine (CMM) in certain time intervals and the shape and chosen dimensions was compared with the reference computer aided designed (CAD) model.
Hyperelastic Material Characterization: A Method of Reducing the Error of Using only Uniaxial Data for Fitting Mooney-Rivlin Curve
Authors: Keerthiwansa Rohitha , Javořík Jakub , Kledrowetz Jan , Nekoksa Pavel
Published: April 2018

The risk of error in using only uniaxial data for fitting constitutive model curves is emphasized by many hyperelastic material researchers over the years. Unfortunately, despite these indications, often the method is utilized in finding material constants for mathematical models. The reason behind this erroneous practice is the difficulty in obtaining biaxial data. Therefore, as a remedial measure, in this research work we suggest a method of forecasting biaxial data from uniaxial data with a reasonable accuracy. Initially, a set of data is collected through standard uniaxial test. A predefined generalized function is then used to generate a set of values which subsequently used as multiplication factors in order to get biaxial tension data. Eventually, with availability of two data sets, Mooney-Rivlin two parameter model was used for combined data fitting. Material constants were then obtained through least squares approach and thereby theoretical load curves namely uniaxial, equi-biaxial tension and pure shear were drawn. The results of this work suggest a definite improvement related to three curves when compared with only uniaxial test data fitted outcomes. For validation of secondary biaxial data, separate eqi-biaxial test was done and resulting curves were compared. Biaxial primary data curve and forecasted data driven curve show identical data distribution pattern though there is a shift and therefore provide a basis for further research in this direction.
Impact of Applied Anti-Reflective Material on Accuracy of Optical 3D Digitisation
Authors: Mendřický Radomír
Published: April 2018

Using optical 3D digitisation for dimensional and shape inspection of work-pieces became a trend recently. Before a 3D scanning process starts, surface of the measured part must usually be coated with a thin layer of anti-reflective material. Such surface coating can be performed by means of a wide range of products with various composition and application method. It is however important to know how the matt coating affects the quality and accuracy of digitization, what the structure and thickness of a coating are. The thickness of a coating may vary significantly from product to product and according to our research, it ranges between units and hundreds of µm. This article presents results of an extensive research of seven matt coating products commonly used in practice. The measurement was carried out on cylindrical and spherical elements using ATOS optical 3D scanner and an electron microscope. Thereafter, the measurement results were analysed to define how the applied coating product along with the material of measured object affect the work-piece dimensional properties. The ease of coating removal was evaluated in the research as well.
The Measurement of Residual Stresses in the Surface Layers of the Materials after Machining
Authors: Králik Marian , Jerz Vladimír
Published: April 2018

This paper deals with the problem of stresses in the surface layer of materials after machining. It analyzes residual stresses as one of the factors affecting the state of the surface layer after machining. It describes the methods for measuring residual stresses and evaluates them from the point of view of suitability for industrial practice. A new method of measuring residual stresses in the surface layer of a workpiece for laboratory use has been proposed and experimentally tested. At the end of the article the options for further solutions in this area are proposed.
Comparison of Measurement Methods to Acquire the Steel Tubes Characteristics
Authors: Buranský Ivan , Buranská Eva
Published: April 2018

The main paper idea was compared three methods (Contact CenterMax and contactless ATOS TripleScan II, Metrotom 1500) for data acquisition to the output characteristics of steel drawing tubes. Outer and internal diameters, eccentricity and ovality were measured. Steel tubes produced by drawing should accomplish shape and dimensional characteristics. These can be measured by various contact and contactless methods. Each of these methods have advantages and disadvantages. The computed tomography advantages are, that we obtain both outer and inner tube shapes. Output is a 3D model from which you can get the elements to evaluate the characteristics. The data acquisition is limited by wall thickness and material density and that is disadvantage. The 3D scanner advantages are, that we obtain outer tube shapes with different diameters and wall thickness regardless of material density. Output is a 3D model. Problem is to obtain data about complex internal shape limited by tube length and diameter and that is the disadvantage. The advantage of acquiring data by contact method is that we obtain both external and internal tube shape, without thickness wall, diameter or material density limitation. The disadvantage is that we don´t obtain a 3D model of tube, but only a spot-scanned elements.
The impact of ureteral Double-J stent insertion following ureterorenoscopy in patients with ureteral stones accompanied by perirenal fat stranding
Authors: Ogreden Ercan , Oguz Ural , Demirelli Erhan , Benli Erdal , Özen Özkan
Published: April 2018

Objective: To evaluate the impact of ureteral stent insertion following semirigid ureterorenoscopy (URS) in patients with perirenal fat stranding (PFS) due to ureteral stones. Material and methods: Data of 600 patients who underwent URS were analyzed retrospectively. Seventy-two patients detected to have PFS accompanying ureteral stone were included. Patients who did not undergo double J (DJ) stent insertion following semirigid URS were classified as Group I (n: 52), while those who underwent stent insertion were classified as Group II (n: 20). Side distribution; localization of the stones, stone size, presence of fever, urinary tract infection (UTIs) and urosepsis rates were compared in the two groups. Results: The average age of the patients was 44.4 (20-71) years. Male/female ratio and side of the stone location showed similar distribution in both groups (p > 0.05). Fever occurred in 23 cases (44.2%) in Group I and in 15 cases (75%) in Group II (p = 0.038). UTIs occurred in 15 cases (28.9%) in Group I and in 12 cases (60%) in Group II (p = 0.03). Urosepsis presented in 3 (5.8%) and 5 (25%) of the patients in Group I and II, respectively (p = 0.033). Conclusions: According to our results, ureteral DJ stent insertion following URS in patients with PFS due to ureteral stone caused an increase on postoperative infection related complications.
Semirigid ureteroscopy prior retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) helps to select the right ureteral access sheath
Authors: Boulalas Ioannis , De Dominicis Mauro , Defidio Lorenzo
Published: April 2018

Objective: To evaluate ureteral compliance through semirigid ureteroscopy (sURS) in order to select the proper ureteral access sheath (UAS) size for retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS). Patients and methods: In a prospective study, 100 consecutive patients selected for elective sURS or RIRS were recruited. Each patient, initially underwent 9.5 Fr sURS with a safety guidewire 3Fr, in order to estimate ureteral compliance. If the ureter was compliant, a gently passage of a 12/14Fr UAS was attempted. If the ureter was not deemed compliant, passage of either a smaller UAS or a smaller semirigid 7Fr or a flexible 7.5Fr or a digital 8.5Fr scope with and without safety guidewire, was attempted. Age, gender, disease location, prestenting, previous RIRS and/or stone elimination, hydronephrosis, ureteral strictures, unsuccessful procedures, and complications, were analyzed as possible correlated factors of ureteral compliance. Results: In 77 patients the ureter was deemed compliant ≥ 14Fr. Of the preoperative factors that were examined, stent placement before RIRS (P < 0.002), previous RIRS (P = 0.000) and previous stone elimination (P = 0.004), correlated with ureter ≥ 14Fr. Ureteral lithiasis (P < 0.001), ureteral strictures (P < 0.05), unsuccessful procedures (P < 0.005) and complications (P = 0.01) correlated with ureter < 14Fr. The complication rate was 10% (10 patients) with ureteral injuries grade I in 9 patients and grade III in 1 patient according to the endoscopic grading system. Age, gender, hydronephrosis and urothelial carcinoma (UC) had no influence. Conclusions: sURS performed before RIRS allows selection of the right ureteral access sheath (UAS) and avoidance of major complications. Pre-stenting, previous RIRS and stone elimination history are all factors correlating with a compliant ureter.
Pulmonary recurrence from prostate cancer and biochemical remission after metastasis directed therapy. A case report
Authors: Boschian Riccardo , Rizzo Michele , Zandonà Lorenzo , Trombetta Carlo , Liguori Giovanni
Published: April 2018

We report a case of a 69-years-old man who presented with a solitary 1 cm nodule in the lower lobe of the left lung almost 3 years after radical prostatectomy for pT3aN0M0, Gleason score 4+3 disease, without evidence of osseous or lymphatic spread. Surgical resection of the pulmonary lobe confirmed the metastatic nature of the lesion, with subsequent reduction of serum PSA to undetectable levels. After 2 years from the metastasis resection, serum PSA is still undetectable, without the necessity of additional treatments. Solitary pulmonary metastases from prostate cancer (Pca) are rare in clinical practice, with only 29 previous cases described besides the one that we present.
Marine bisindole alkaloid: A potential apoptotic inducer in human cancer cells
Authors: Salucci Sara , Burattini Sabrina , Buontempo Francesca , Orsini Ester , Furiassi Lucia , Mari Michele , Lucarini Simone , Martelli Alberto M. , Falcieri Elisabetta
Published: April 2018

Marine organisms such as corals, sponges and tunicates produce active molecules which could represent a valid starting point for new drug development processes. Among the various structural classes, the attention has been focused on 2,2-bis(6-bromo-3-indolyl) ethylamine, a marine alkaloid which showed a good anticancer activity against several tumor cell lines. Here, for the first time, the mechanisms of action of 2,2-bis(6-bromo-3-indolyl) ethylamine have been evaluated in a U937 tumor cell model. Morpho-functional and molecular analyses, highlighting its preferred signaling pathway, demonstrated that apoptosis is the major death response induced by this marine compund. Chromatin condensation, micronuclei formation, blebbing and in situ DNA fragmentation, occurring through caspase activation (extrinsic and intrinsic pathways), were observed. In particular, the bisindole alkaloid induces a mitochondrial involvement in apoptosis machinery activation with Blc-2/Bcl-x down-regulation and Bax up-regulation. These findings demonstrated that 2,2-bis(6-bromo-3-indolyl) ethylamine alkaloid-induced apoptosis is regulated by the Bcl-2 protein family upstream of caspase activation.
Evaluation of a two-stage thermal and catalytic hydrocracking process for Athabasca bitumen
Authors: Ranganathan R , Pruden B B , Ternan M , Denis J M
Published: April 2018

A two-stage thermal and catalytic hydrocracking process of upgrading Athabasca bitumen is described. In the first stage, the bitumen is treated in the presence of excess hydrogen in a tubular reactor at 13.90 MPa and 450°C. A heavy-oil product is separated
and a portion is recycled to the reactor. The light-oil product in vapour form is further treated in a vapour-phase catalytic reactor to remove sulphur and nitrogen compounds. The second stage of this process is simulated by treating the light oil once-through in a bench-scale fixed-bed catalytic
reactor. The results for catalytic treatment at 13.90 MPa and 430°C suggest that the specifications of reformer naphtha feedstock, fuel oils and cat-cracking gas-oil feedstock can be met. Three different catalysts, namely, Co-Mo on alumina, Ni-Mo on alumina and Ni-W on alumina, are evaluated in
the catalytic hydrocracking stage and their selectivities are compared.
Metallurgical coals in Canada: resources, research, and utilization
Authors: Price J T , Gransden J F
Published: April 2018

Canada has a vast metallurgical coal base located mainly in the Provinces of British Columbia and Alberta in the west and Nova Scotia in the east. Large mines, efficient rail transportation and port facilities, and good coking coal properties at competitive
prices have allowed Canada's metallurgical coal exports to double in the last 12 years to 22 million tonnes. Western Canadian and eastern Canadian coals are quite different as a result of their different geological histories. The Cretaceous western Canadian coals were formed about 100 million years
ago in swamps but, unlike the Carboniferous coals from eastern North America, have generally matured in a non-marine environment. The stresses that occurred during the formation of the mountains in western Canada have brought the coals to the surface, often in faulted, folded, or steep seams. The
resulting coals range from high-volatile to low-volatile bituminous in rank and generally are friable. They have more inherent ash and semifusinite, and less sulphur and alkalis than corresponding Carboniferous coals. Their unusually low Gieseler fluidity and dilatation properties make these test
methods, at best, doubtful in grading Cretaceous coking coals. Individually, western Canadian coals make strong cokes with excellent coke strength after reaction (CSR) properties because of the low basicity of their ash. Removal of mineral matter and high bulk density charging of coke ovens
significantly improves their coke quality. The MVB coals can be added to eastern North American binary blends to bridge the fluid temperature ranges of the component coals, to reduce coking pressures and to improve CSR properties. Weak and non-coking coals from western Canada can be used in
conventional cokemaking, partial briquetting, pitch additives, or form coke processes using pitch binder. Pitch enhances the caking properties of these coals and improves coke properties. Strong formed coke can be made by carbonizing briquets made from oxidized western Canadian coals without the use
of binder. Weak and non-coking coals could also be used in other metallurgical processes such as direct ironmaking and coal injection into blast furnaces. Coals from Atlantic Canada are Carboniferous and were formed 200 million years prior to the Cretaceous coals from western Canada. Coking coal
from Nova Scotia has good blending properties and ideally complements the properties of the western Canadian coals to make strong cokes. It is hvA bituminous in rank, has low ash but high sulphur and vitrinite contents, and very high fluidity and dilatation properties. It can be used effectively in
preheating processes. Char or petroleum coke can be incorporated into coking blends containing this coal to make strong coke. It is a very good binder coal in hot briquetting formed coke processes because of its high caking properties. Details and results of CANMET investigations of Canada's
metallurgical coals are discussed.
Canadian coal preparation plants
Authors: Romaniuk A S
Published: April 2018

All Canadian coal destined for export abroad or to distant domestic markets must be beneficiated to remove mineral matter and to produce a high-quality, uniform, saleable, thermal or coking coal product. The geological setting in which coal is mined in Canada
varies in the extreme; from steep, thick, often contorted seams in the mountains of western Canada to more uniform seams in eastern Canada, comparable to those found in Europe, except that most eastern Canadian production comes from undersea mines. Coal preparation problems in Canada, which are
likewise complex, centre on fine coal losses in western Canada and sulphur in eastern Canada.

The 14 coal preparation plants described in the report have been grouped into four geographical regions: the Wolverine area in northeastern British Columbia, the East Kootenay area in southeastern British Columbia, the Yellowhead area in west central Alberta, and Cape Breton in Nova Scotia (Fig. 1).
Individual plants are described in terms of their geographical setting and transportation facilities (Fig. 2), special technological features, and a flowsheet subdivided into four parts: pretreatment of feed coal, cleaning, subsequent treatment of products, and storage and
loading.
A computer method for coal washability and dependent performance calculations
Authors: Bird L C , Mikhail M W , Parsons I S
Published: April 2018

A computer program is described for calculating and plotting coal washability data and calculating dependent performance data for a washing unit or plant. The dependent performance evaluation includes the determination of ash and yield errors, and organic
efficiency values. The program is intended to help coal preparation, engineers and plant operators to interpret data and make decisions in adjusting operating conditions to meet changing feed washability characteristics and to achieve optimum plant performance. The program was written in BASIC
language for use with a Hewlett Packard 9845A desk-top computer. A program listing is available upon request from CANMET's Coal Research Laboratory, Edmonton.