bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE WILL OF THE PATIENT EXPRESSED IN ADVANCE AND ITS LEGAL CONSEQUENCES
Authors: Mazure Līga
Published: November 2015

The regulation of the will of the patient expressed in advance is controversial and insufficient in the Latvian legislation. The legal regulation on the will of the patient expressed in advance stipulates clearly only the form of the will of the patient; it has to be established without sufficient reference to its legally binding force. The aim of the research is to carry out a legal analysis of the institution of the patient’s will expressed in advance, to identify legal flaws related to it and to propose particular solutions to eliminate the identified limitations. To achieve the aim, the following research tasks are set: 1) to analyze the legal nature of the patient’s will expressed in advance; 2) to explore the content and term of the patient’s will expressed in advance; 3) to assess the establishment of the patient’s will expressed in advance and its termination. The following research methods are used in the research: semantic method, grammar method, historical method, analytical method, comparative method, systemic method, teleological method. In a result of the research the author has formulated the principles of the will of the patient expressed in advance that could be introduced in the legal regulation on the issue, thus improving the legal protection of the patient. Analysing the legal nature of the patient’s will expressed in advance and taking into account its peculiarity, the content boundaries of this particular type of the expression of the patient’s will were defined identifying the extent of the patient’s self-determination. Assessing various possibilities of choosing the term defining the patient’s will expressed in advance, the author has sustained the most appropriate version of the term considering both national and international legal regulation, and notions of the legal doctrine. Another issue of a similar significance that was analysed in the research were the methods used in the legal practice of the world countries to determine the patient’s will expressed in advance; the author has analysed and offered the determination method, which is the most appropriate for the legal system of Latvia. In the conclusion, types of termination of the patient’s will expressed in advance and their legal consequences were analysed. Furthermore, the author proposes an applicable project of the amendments to the legal regulations in order to implement the theoretical conclusions of the research related to the patient’s will expressed in advance into the legal system of Latvia.
DEVELOPMENT OF PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCIES OF HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY SPECIALISTS WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF ACQUISITION OF EDUCATIONAL MODULE “ORGANIZATION OF HOSPITALITY SERVICES”
Authors: Silicka Inese , Dembovska Iveta
Published: November 2015

According to the SWOT analysis on the Latvian Tourism Marketing Strategy 2010-2015 carried out by the Tourism Development Agency in 2010, the lack of skilled labour force in tourism and hospitality industry, as well as the low level of professional qualifications are mentioned as one of the potential threats. The aim of the research is to examine and analyse the development of professional competencies of hospitality industry specialists within the framework of completion of the interactive educational module “Organization of Hospitality Services”. The tasks of the research are: to examine the theoretical aspects of formation, application and significance of interactive educational modules; to determine requirements, aim, structure and position of the interactive educational module in the education process. In the paper, the theoretical aspects of formation of interactive educational modules are examined; the content of the interactive educational module “Organization of Hospitality Services”, which is implemented within the framework of the study programme “Hospitality Management”, is offered; requirements, aim, structure and position of interactive educational module in the education process are determined. The opportunities of application of the interactive educational module “Organization of Hospitality Services” are wide enough: it may be applied not only in the training process of hospitality industry specialists, but also in order to raise the qualification level of managers at the intermediate level. A pilot research study concluded that completion of theoretical studies is not sufficient enough in order to acquire professional competencies at the highest level. The authors of the paper suggest acquiring practical skills, which is extremely important. The research methods: the logical and constructive methods, the scientific induction method, synthesis, document analysis, the monographic method, the graphic method.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE REGIONAL UNIVERSITY IN DECREASING EMIGRATION
Authors: Silineviča Irēna
Published: November 2015

The trend in the decreasing number of inhabitants is a very significant regional problem in Latvia. During recent years many people of Latvia have emigrated as economic refugees to Ireland, the United Kingdom, Germany and other countries. More than 30% of them are well-educated young people who gained higher education in Latvia. Most of them are employed as unskilled labourers there. The potential causes of emigration of well-educated young people are analysed in this research study. The aim of the research study is to reveal potential emigration problems of the young generation and to research some opportunities for the regional university in decreasing youth emigration. Potential emigration problems are identified by using findings of a survey of students, organized at Rezekne University of Applied Sciences. The suggestions about opportunities for the regional university in decreasing youth emigration were developed by taking into account the results of the survey and cooperation possibilities between the regional university and municipalities and by changing the approach to the study process.
THE CONCEPTUAL CONTENT OF STATE BUDGET PROCESS IN ECONOMIC THEORY
Authors: Žubule Ērika , Puzule Anita
Published: November 2015

Evaluating the role of the budget in economy we may declare that the budget process should favour the social economic development of the state. The aim of the research is to explore and evaluate theoretical aspects of the state budget process as a component of the state financial policy and to work out proposals for improvement of the state budget process, based on the theoretical and empirical findings. The main objectives of the research were to study the foreign economic scientific literature on the state budget process in the context of theoretical aspects, to study the impact of the state budget process on the financial policy and to work out proposals for the perfection of state budget process. Generally accepted research methods of economic analysis were used: the qualitative – studying the special literature, scientific publications, morphologic comparison, the logically constructive method, the method of synthesis. As there are different views on the significance of the state budget process in the organization of state finances, the authors have specified the definition of the concept of the state budget process in the context of economics. It will ensure a unified understanding of the budget process as an important mechanism of state finance management. Therefore, a more profound theoretical research study on the state budget process is important.
A Walk in the Woods—But no Ticks Please
Authors: Halperin John J ,   Chair, Department of Neurosciences, Overlook Medical Center, Summit, New Jersey, US
Published: November 2015

Lyme disease affects the nervous system in 10–15 % of patients, causing meningitis, cranial neuritis, and radiculoneuropathies. Although some patients with active infection develop a mild encephalopathy, this is typical of the “toxic metabolic” encephalopathy experienced by patients with other inflammatory states; only rarely is this indicative of nervous system infection. Misattribution of isolated chronic fatigue states to “chronic Lyme disease” underlies much of the “Lyme disease controversy.” True nervous Lyme disease is cured by standard courses of antibiotics. The fact that patients with chronic fatigue show limited if any response to more protracted, complex regimens supports the conclusion that Lyme disease is not a contributing factor.
Recapitulating Amyloid ß and Tau Pathology in Human Neural Cell Culture Models—Clinical Implications
Authors: Choi Se Hoon , Kim Young Hye , D’Avanzo Carla , Aronson Jenna , Tanzi Rudolph E , Kim Doo Yeon ,   Instructor; Genetics and Aging Research Unit, MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Massachusetts, US,   Senior Researcher, Biomedical Omics Group, Korea Basic Science Institute, Cheongju-si, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea,   Postdoc Associate,   Research Technician,   Professor,   Assistant Professor, Genetics and Aging Research Unit, MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Massachusetts, US
Published: November 2015

The “amyloid β hypothesis” of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has been the reigning hypothesis explaining pathogenic mechanisms of AD over the last two decades. However, this hypothesis has not been fully validated in animal models, and several major unresolved factors remain. We recently developed a human neural cell culture model of AD based on a three-dimensional (3D) cell culture system. This unique, cellular model recapitulates major events of the AD pathogenic cascade, including β-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Our 3D human neural cell culture model system provides a premise for a new generation of cellular AD models that can serve as a novel platform for studying pathogenic mechanisms and for high-throughput drug screening in a human brain-like environment.
Neurology Year-in-review—Pediatric Neurology
Authors: Schor Nina F ,   William H Eilinger Professor and Chair, Department of Pediatrics; Professor, Departments of Neurology and Neurobiology & Anatomy; Pediatrician-in-Chief, Golisano Children’s Hospital, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, US
Published: November 2015

The year in child neurology has brought international collaboration, innovative technologies juxtaposed with common clinical conditions, and a blurring of the line between pediatric and adult medicine. Through all of this, it is the interaction between the individual patient and family and the individual healthcare professional that makes the difference in diagnosis, treatment, and ultimate outcome.
Taking Genetics of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis to Next Steps
Authors: Hardiman Orla ,   Professor of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute
Published: November 2015

Great advances have been made in understanding the genetics of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, but we are really merely at the end of the beginning. Many new genes have been discovered, but these need to be contextualized within populations and across different phenotypes. Increased international collaboration through whole-genome sequencing initiatives, such as Project MinE (www.projectMinE.com), combined with detailed clinical phenotyping is most likely to drive future research in disease pathogenesis and new drug development
Multiple Sclerosis and Pregnancy
Authors: Bove Riley ,   Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School; Associate Neurologist, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, US
Published: November 2015

For many women with multiple sclerosis (MS), bearing and breastfeeding a child can be undertaken safely with the management of an informed medical provider. In the past year, the need for a North American MS pregnancy registry has come into sharper focus; reports from a multicenter randomized estriol trial have been presented, and the scope of investigations has widened beyond mothers to include fathers with MS, as well as children of parents with MS. More data are anticipated regarding the effects of breastfeeding and fertility treatments on MS course, as well as ideal levels of vitamin D during pregnancy.
An interdisciplinary analysis of genetically modified vaccines: from clinical trials to market
Authors: Ramezanpour Bahar , Riemmens Tommy , Van de Burgwal Linda , Claassen E.
Published: November 2015

Background: Immunization is considered the most effective strategy for infectious disease control and maintaining global health. Conventional vaccines have successfully targeted a broad spectrum of pathogens. However, a large number of untargeted diseases still remain. Introduction of novel Genetically Modified (GM) vaccines allow development of new improved vaccines and immunotherapeutics. Moreover, GM vaccines can also target non-communicable diseases outside the range of infectious diseases, including cancer, autoimmune diseases, and allergies.  

Methods: We compiled novel and unique datasets encompassing data from literature, patent documents, clinical trials, and vaccine registers in order to provide a thorough overview of the GM market.

Results: Based on patent data, we found that most patent applications were filed in North America, Asia, and Europe, which coincides with the locations of the largest companies and institutes. Looking at clinical trial data we forecast marketing of two next generation GM vaccines, targeting cancer and malaria. In addition, we calculated phase transition success rates of 82% (phase 1-2) and 76% (phase 2-3).

Conclusions: These findings indicate viable regions for GM vaccine research and development. Phase transition success rates of 82% (phase 1-2) and 76% (phase 2-3) predict a relatively high chance of marketing approval. Increased registrations of GM vaccines complemented by rising numbers of patent applications suggest global growth of the GM vaccine market, which currently holds a proportion of nearly 20% of the total vaccine market.
Funding of clinical trials in Brazil for the development of new drugs: who are the sponsors?
Authors: Silva Ricardo Eccard da , Amato Angélica Amorim , Garbi Novaes Maria Rita Carvalho
Published: November 2015

Background: A low rate of investment in science it is directly impacts the technological independence and capacity in health care costs. Knowledge of funding sources is critical to understand the problem and formulates hypotheses for future studies.

Methods: Two databases were used: the System for Control of Clinical Research (SCCR) from the Brazilian Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa), and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP).  

Results: From 2009 to 2012, 77% of the clinical trials approved by Anvisa were sponsored by transnational pharmaceutical industry. On the other hand, the national pharmaceutical industry sponsored 8% of the trials over the same period. The most frequent sponsor of clinical trials involving drugs registered in the ICTRP from 2011 to 2012 was the transnational pharmaceutical industry (43%). Among the trials with national sponsors, are those involving neglected diseases such as chronic hepatitis C (ICD X B18.2), cutaneous leishmaniasis (ICD X B55.1) and yellow fever (ICD X A95), which were all sponsored by national governmental foundations. None of the active pharmaceutical ingredients studied by the transnational pharmaceutical industry or the transnational biopharmaceutical company were in the national list of essential medicines. On the other hand, 83% and 66.6% of the active pharmaceutical ingredients studied by national private universities and the international governmental agency, respectively, are in the national list of essential medicines.  

Conclusions: The national pharmaceutical industry and government still invests little in Research and Development (R&D) activities, when compared with transnational industries. This affects directly its technological and innovation ability.
Cardiovascular disease risk assessment in diabetes and metabolic syndrome patients with and without non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Alim Mohammed , Sahay Rakesh K. , Hafiz Nuwairah , Prabhakar B. , Ibrahim Mohammed
Published: November 2015

Background: Recently non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been suggested as independent cardiovascular (CVD) risk factor and many studies have shown strong links between NAFLD and CVD but NAFLD has not been related to cardiovascular mortality independently on a long term follow up. Inflammation and oxidative stress is well recognized factors for NALFD which lead to many interrelated factors contributing to cardiovascular risk. Aim: To study the cardiovascular disease risk in diabetes and metabolic syndrome patients with and without NAFLD using different risk assessment calculators.

Methods: This was a single center, prospective cross sectional study. 62 patients with diabetes and metabolic syndrome attending the endocrinology & gastroenterology clinics of Osmania General Hospital were enrolled in to the study with 31 patients in group A (NAFLD) and 31 patients in group B (Non-NAFLD). Patients were diagnosed with fatty liver by ultrasound examination.  

Results: The groups were individually evaluated for cardiovascular risk assessment by PROCAM risk score, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) score and atherosclerosis Index. The means ± standard(%) deviation of Procam risk score for NAFLD group was 6.00 ± 1.00 and for Non NAFLD group it was 10.00 ± 2.00 (p=0.039). ASCVD risk score shows 5.11 ± 1.12 for NAFLD and Non NAFLD group showed 8.25 ± 2.18 (p=0.235). The Atherosclerosis index for NAFLD group was 0.24 ± 0.03 and Non NAFLD 0.18 ± 0.04 (p=0.785). The QRsik2 score for NAFLD and Non-NAFLD patients was 13.16 ± 7.56 and 17.45 ± 10.36.

Conclusions: There was no difference in CVD risk assessment when assessed with different calculators in this population.
The effect of rectal progesterone on latency period as well as maternal and prenatal outcome between 24 to 33 weeks
Authors: Tahir Fadwah , Badawi Mohammed , Nuqali Abdulelah , Katib Yasir , Siddiqui Irfanallah Muhammad , Edris Fawaz , Madani Entsar , Morad Muaid , Taibah Omar , Al-Ghamdi Yahyah
Published: November 2015

Preterm Premature Rupture Of Membranes (PPROM) is directly linked to prematurity associated with severe neonatal morbidity and mortality. Randomized clinical trials have shown that weekly injections of 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (17P) or daily vaginal progesterone application decreases the number of preterm deliveries, particularly for women with a history of preterm delivery or those with a shortened cervix. However, no studies have yet been conducted to prove or disprove the effect of rectal progesterone on latency period. To address this issue, we will conduct a multicenter randomized triple-blind controlled trial of 216 participants (108 in each group) from January 1, 2016 to August 31, 2016. Inclusion criteria, exclusion criteria, data collection procedure, data analysis, and assessment of safety procedures are explained in the study protocol. The primary objective will be to determine the effect of rectal progesterone on the latency period in PPROM. The secondary objective will be to study the effect of rectal progesterone on maternal outcomes of hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, chorioamnionitis, post-partum hemorrhage, post-partum pyrexia, endometritis, and maternal death. In addition, we will evaluate prenatal birth weight, Apgar score, neonatal morbidity, duration of neonatal intensive care unit stay, intrauterine fetal death, and neonatal death associated with PPROM.
Design and protocols of the GIRAF prevention trial: A randomized, prospective, parallel, two-center study to compare cognitive outcomes in subjects with atrial fibrillation using warfarin or dabigatran
Authors: Toledo André A. S. F. de , Yu Pai C. , Guallandro Danielle M. , Calderaro Daniela , Carmo Gabriel A. L. do , Fernandes Breno F. S. , Neves Marina A. , Feitosa Raul , Rodrigues Ana Carolina , Ribeiro Antônio Luiz P. , Nitrini Ricardo , Caramelli Paulo , Caramelli Bruno
Published: November 2015

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia and is associated with cognitive impairment and dementia. Cognitive and functional impairments have been neglected in clinical trials with patients affected by AF. Dabigatran is a new drug, which can offer a more stable long-term anticoagulant therapy compared to warfarin. This advantage could be associated with a minor incidence of cognitive and functional decline. The objective of the study is to evaluate the effects of dabigatran compared with warfarin on cognitive and functional impairments, thrombin production, bleeding occurrence and cerebrovascular complications in elderly patients with AF.

Methods: A randomized, prospective parallel, two-center, active-controlled trial will be performed in a sample of 200 patients with AF randomly designated to take dabigatran (150 mg twice daily) or warfarin (once daily, dose controlled by INR between 2 and 3). After one and two years, subjects will be assessed considering cognitive outcomes. Additionally, patients will be submitted to brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at the beginning and ending of study to identify possible cerebrovascular events, as well as carotid ultrasonography to search for atherosclerotic disease.
Conclusions: The GIRAF study expects to provide data about prevention of cognitive and functional impairments among patients on anticoagulant therapy for AF, and to explore new concepts on potential prevention of cognitive decline and benefits for AF patients and their relatives.
Mechanical and Thermal Properties and Morphology of Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)/Clay Composites
Authors: Crespo Janaina Silva , Pizzatto Leandro , Fiorio Rudinei , Giovanela Marcelo
Published: November 2015

In this study, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) composites were prepared with different nanoclay contents (1, 3 and 10 wt%). The nanoclay Cloisite ®30B (C30B) was dispersed in the TPU matrix by melt processing using a twin-screw extruder. The synthesis method of TPU involved the two-step bulk polymerization of polyesterpolyol and 4,4’ diphenylmethanediisocyanate with butane-1,4-diol as the chain extender. The dispersion of the nanoclay particles and its effect on the mechanical and thermal properties of the composites was investigated. The characterization of TPU/nanoclay composites was carried out by means of scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersion microanalysis and X ray diffraction. The mechanical characterization was performed through determination of the tensile strength. The TPU 3 wt% composite showed the best improvement with increases in stress and tensile at break (28% and 35%, respectively), compared to the neat TPU (sample without nanoclay). The differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetry analyses for composites indicated that the nanoclay did not affect significantly the glass transition, melt, and degradation temperatures of the polymeric matrix, but reduces the molecular mobility.  http://dx.doi.org/10.18226/23185279.v3iss2p50
Effect of Current Density on Electrodeposition of Nickel-Organic Microcapsules Composite Coatings
Authors: Kholkin O. , Kurbatov A. , Beall Gary W. , Djenizian T. , Galeyeva A.K. , Lepikhin M.S. , Kokhmetova S.T.
Published: November 2015

A formation of protective composite coatings based on nickel and organic substance of inert nature, containing a corrosion inhibitor, encapsulated in a polymer shell, was studied. The microcapsules were synthesized in an aqueous-organic emulsion using the method of formation of shell of the modified gelatine on the surface of microdroplets. Composite coatings were obtained by electrochemical codeposition of nickel matrix and microcapsules, suspended in the electrolyte. Changes of surface morphology, microhardness and corrosive properties of coatings with respect to changes of deposition parameters of coatings were investigated.  The distribution of particle sizes in coatings depending on the current density was studied. It was shown that an increase in the mass fraction of the microcapsules in the coating leads to an increase in its corrosion resistance.
Seasonal Variations of Lipid Content and Composition in Starfish Asterias amurensis Lütken
Authors: Azad Shah A.K.M. , Kurihara H. , Takahashi K.
Published: November 2015

The total lipid content, lipid classes and fatty acid composition in the internal organs of starfish (Asterias amurensis) were analyzed to determine the effects of seasons (winter and spring). The non-polar and polar lipid fractions obtained from starfish internal organs were analyzed through two seasons using thin layer chromatography (TLC) and gas liquid chromatography. Total lipid content of internal organs was 10.18% in spring and 8.21% in winter as wet weight basis. The predominant lipid class in spring was triglyceride whereas free fatty acids were the main lipid class in winter. The most abundant fatty acid of non-polar lipid fraction was eicosamonoenoic acid (C20:1) in spring having the highest proportion (29.2% of total fatty acid) as compared to the winter. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) was also found significantly (P < 0.05) higher in spring compared to winter in the non-polar lipid fraction. On the other hand, comparatively lower amount of EPA was observed in spring than winter in the polar lipid fraction. Proportions of other fatty acids in non-polar and polar lipid fractions were also varied seasonally. This result might be useful for commercial production of lipid from internal organ of starfish with a view to potential use in food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics and other non-food industries.
Food Chemistry: a Kazakhstan Perspective on the Maillard Reaction and Acrylamide Formation in Common Foods
Authors: Kudiyarova Zh. , Lesova Zh. , Curtis T.Y. , Muttucumaru N. , Postles J. , Halford N.G.
Published: November 2015

The Maillard reaction is largely responsible for the colour, flavour, aroma and texture of fried, baked and roasted foods, including bread, biscuits, breakfast cereals and other foods made from wheat grain, French fries and crisps made from potato and a wide range of other popular foods. However, it also results in the
formation of undesirable products, including the neurotoxin and probable carcinogen, acrylamide, and furans. Kazakhstan is a major wheat producer and exports wheat grain to many countries, including countries within the European Union. The European Commission has already issued "indicator levels" for the presence of acrylamide in food products. Although these are not regulatory limits, food producers strive to keep the levels
of acrylamide in their products beneath the indicator levels in order to avoid intervention from food safety authorities and the associated bad publicity. Sourcing raw material with low acrylamide forming potential would enable food producers to achieve this without expensive changes to processesand this is likely to be an increasingly important issue for suppliers. This review describes the Maillard reaction, the evolving regulatory
scenarios in Europe and the USA and the implications for Kazakhstan as a grain exporter.
SHS Joining Via Combustion of Ti-Containing Systems
Authors: Boyarchenko O.D. , Vadchenko S.G. , Sachkova N.V. , Sytschev A.E.
Published: November 2015

The joining of intermetallic parts to the metals (Ti, Al, Cu, Ni) or different intermetallics (e.g. NiAl, TiAl) is important for high-temperature applications. Traditional fusion welding is difficult to apply due to the large thermal expansion mismatch between the intermetallics to be joined and the filler material.
Brazing and diffusion bonding are also inefficient, energy-consuming, and must be carried out in vacuum or protective atmosphere. Meanwhile, Self-propagating High-temperature Synthesis (SHS) that is widely used for production of powders, compact materials and parts holds considerable promise as a method of joining various component parts. We report on a new SHS-based approach to joining TiAl and NiAl intermetallics with metal substrates Ti and Ni. The adiabatic combustion temperatures for the systems under study and stoichiometric ratios of green mixtures were determined by thermodynamic calculations. Experiments were performed in the modes of pressure-assisted thermal explosion and combustion wave propagation, with the samples placed between the punches of experimental set up. Investigated were the processes taking place in thermally treated Ti or Ni plates mechanically impregnated
(by Mechanically Activation or Vibration Milling) with a mixture of metallic particles. Vibratory treatment of an Al and Ti surfaces in a powder mixture of metals was found to result in destruction of the surface oxide film and formation of extensive physical contacts between the Ni or Ti matrix and the metallic particles
mechanically impregnated into the near surface layer of Ni or Ti.
Subsequent thermal treatment was then used to launch chemical reaction yielding intermetallides within the impregnated layer. Performing SHS reactions yielding melted intermetallides in the coatings (or pellets) deposited (or placed) onto the surface of thus treated Ti or Ni plates, one can obtain strong weld joining
between solidified SHS products and substrates. This approach can also be used for deposition of coatings with a desired composition onto substrates.
XRD Investigation of SHS-Produced Boron Carbide
Authors: Kovalev I.D. , Ponomarev V.I. , Vershinnikov V.I. , Konovalikhin S.V.
Published: November 2015

Boron carbide with compositions corresponding to the homogeneity region in its phase diagram was obtained by self-propagating high temperature synthesis (SHS). The received samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, lattice parameters and half-width of reflections have been investigated. The lattice parameters of boron carbide reported in the literature exhibit a too wide spread in their values for equal carbon content. It is unusually for covalent compounds such as boron carbide which has strong chemical bonds. The largest spread in lattice parameters was observed at 13.2 % (atomic) of carbon in boron carbide. In other hand, for SHS-produced samples the spread was minimal. Using XRD analysis cell parameters of boron carbide in our experiments was found to depend on carbon concentration in non-linear way. Lattice parameter was found to reach the unusually high value of 12.31 Å. The half-widths of boron carbide diffraction lines were found to depend on carbon concentration and reach their maximum values at 13.2 atomic % of carbon when the lattice is most disordered. The structure analysis allows to associate it with the process of crystal structure ordering caused by replacement of boron atoms by carbon ones during formation of boron carbide structure. The carbon atoms can be incorporated into different positions in both the linear groups and the icosahedra. In other words, some certain composition can correspond to different structure. Therefore, both experimental data and crystal-chemical considerations allow to conclude the possibility of different kinds of ordering in boron carbide structure, resulting in instability of lattice parameters and consequently in properties.
Fabrication of Fully Dense UHTC by Combining SHS and SPS
Authors: Musa C. , Licheri R. , Orrù R. , Cao G.
Published: November 2015

The combination of the Self-propagating High-temperature Synthesis (SHS) technique and the Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) technology is adopted in this work for the fabrication of fully dense MB2-SiC and MB2-MC-SiC (M = Zr, Hf, Ta) Ultra High Temperature Ceramics (UHTCs). Specifically, Zr, Hf or Ta, B4C,
 Si, and graphite reactants are first converted to the desired composites by SHS. For the case of the lowexothermic Ta-based compositions, a preliminary 20 min ball milling treatment of the starting reactants is required to activate the corresponding synthesis reactions. When the resulting powders are then subjected to consolidation by SPS, it is found that products with relative densities greater than 96% can be obtained for all systems investigated within 30 min of total processing time, when setting the dwell temperature to 1800 °C and the mechanical pressure to 20 MPa. Hardness, fracture toughness, and oxidation resistance characteristics of the resulting dense UHTCs are comparable to, or superior than, those relative to similar products synthesized by alternative, less rapid, processing routes. Moreover, it is found that the ternary composites display relatively low resistance to oxidation as a consequence of the lower SiC content in the composite, in comparison with the binary systems, as well as to the presence of transition metal carbides. Indeed, although the latter ones are potentially able to increase mechanical and resistance to ablation properties, they tend to oxidize rapidly to form MO2 and COx, so that the resulting porosity make the material bulk more sensitive to oxidation.
Physical Assets by SHS in the Framework of ISRU and ISFR Paradigms for Human Space Missions on the Moon
Authors: Corrias G. , Licheri R. , Orrù R. , Cao G.
Published: November 2015

In this work a brief overview of the most important technologies for space exploration, with particular emphasis on the Moon missions, is presented. It is shown that the focus has been on the technologies to extract consumables (O2, H2O, N2) for human life-support replenishment. The fact that the exploitation of extraterrestrial resources to obtain the desired materials during each ongoing mission, which has been the subject of several investigations since the sixties of the last century, is discussed. The paradigms ISRU (In Situ Resources Utilization) and ISFR (In Situ Fabrication and Repair) are then introduced. In particular, one of the most important process for the production of oxygen, i.e. the reduction of ilmenite by hydrogen is analyzed. In addition, the current iteration of the roadmap which identifies two feasible pathways for human missions after ISS (International Space Station) is addressed. Next, the fabrication of Lunar physical assets is taken into account, while focusing particularly on those processes where combustion-like reactions are exploited. The main results recently obtained in the literature in this regards are also summarized. In particular, the choice of the reducing agent and the influence of the most important processing parameters (composition of the starting mixture, gas pressure level, and gravity conditions) are examined in a systematic manner.
Influence of Different Catalysts and Solvents on the General Base Catalytical Esterification of Polyoxyethylene Sorbitan Trioleate with Maleic Anhydride and Styrene-Co-Maleic Anhydride
Authors: Orazbekuly Ye. , Dergunov S.A. , Boiko G.I. , Lubchenko N.P.
Published: November 2015

The general base catalitycal esterification of Polyoxyethylene sorbitane Trioleate with maleic anhydride (Ma) and styrene-co-maleic anhydride (Sma) using pyridine as catalyst is described. We investigated the effect of different factors on the yield of reaction product. The analysis of the effect of different factors
 on the process of catalytical esterification showed that the catalysts and solvents can be arranged by their activity in the following order: sulfuric acid > toluene sulfonic acid > triethylamine > pyridine > without a catalyst and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) > O-xylene > dimethylformamide (DMF), respectively. It should be noted that pyridine to its activity is not significantly inferior to the traditional catalysts and with DMSO using the yield of product is increasing. It is concluded that the reaction proceeds by 2nd order. It was found that decreasing the temperature of reaction to a lower temperature, where there is an intensive incubation period, leads to decreasing of yield of polyesters. The rate constant and activation energy were calculated. It was found that the process occurred on 98% at 130 °С and 80 min for PoesTo/Ma and on 88% at 150 °С and 40 min for PoesTo/Sma. For preparation of reaction product to analysis new methods were developed. It was shown, that on 1H and 13C spectra an overlap of the individual peaks or their close concentration in one area is observed, which makes it not possible to complete the analysis of the spectra. 1H and 13C spectra give a preliminary idea of the structure of the reaction products. It is concluded that 2-D NMR measurements more useful for further confirming of structure of PoesTo/Ma and PoesTo/Sma. HLB shown that we obtained two different surfactants where by catalytical esterification the hydrophilic part of Tween in PoesTo/Ma and the lipophilic part in PoesTo/Sma was increased.
UV Curable Self-Healing Structural Epoxy Composite Materials Interfacial Polycondensation Microencapsulation of Healing Agent and Photo-Initiator
Authors: Ospanova G. , Koynov K. , Tleubayeva I. , Khudaibergenov B. , Iskakov R.
Published: November 2015

The ability of polymeric coatings to self-heal itself from mechanical damage is explored in this paper. Polymeric coatings with self-healing property is one of the important aspects in modern science. It can be used in industries such as oil industry (protection against corrosion), mechanical engineering, aircraft, etc. The polyurethane (PU) microparticles were synthesized on the basis of polypropyleneglycol (PPG) and toluene diisocyanate (TDI) with a method of interfacial polycondensation at the interface water-benzene. Further to study the surface morphology of the microcapsules with healing agent (trimethylolpropanetriacrylate–TMPTA) obtained PU was applied the method of scanning electron and atomic force microscopy. The PU microparticles hollow inside have regular spherical shape with a diameter of 5-10 µm with a dense and smooth polymerics shell. The resulting polyimide–olyurethane (PI–PU) composites have high potential to regenerate damaged surfaces not only on the surface and also in the volume of composite within several minutes.

 
Effect of Pressure, Environment Temperature, Jet Velocity and Nitrogen Dilution on the Liftoff Characteristics of a N2-in-H2 Jet Flame in a Vitiated Co-flow
Authors: North A. , Magar M. , Chen J.-Y. , Dibble R. , Gruber A.
Published: November 2015

The CO2 emission prevention advantage of generating power with high hydrogen content fuels using gas turbines motivates an improved understanding of the ignition behavior of hydrogen in premixed and partially premixed environments. Hydrogen rich fueled flame stability is sensitive to operating conditions, including environment pressure, temperature, and jet velocity. Furthermore, when premixed or partially premixed operation is needed for nitric oxide emissions reduction, a diluent, such as nitrogen, is often added in allowing fuel/air mixing prior to combustion. Thus, the concentration of the diluent added is an additional independent variable on which flame stability dependence is needed. The focus of this research is on characterizing the dependence of hydrogen jet flame stability on environment temperature, pressure, jet velocity and diluent concentration by determining the dependence of the liftoff height of lifted flames on these 4 independent parameters. Nitrogen is used as the diluent due to its availability and effectiveness in promoting liftoff. A correlation modeling the liftoff height dependence on operating conditions is developed which emphasizes the factors that bear the greatest impact on ignition behavior.
Nitric Oxide Pathways in Surface-Flame Radiant Burners
Authors: Rumminger M.D. , Dibble R.W.
Published: November 2015

Nitrogen oxide (NOx) formation in surface-flame burners is studied. Surface-flame burners are typically made of metal fibers, ceramic fibers, or ceramic foam and provide radiant flux with low pollutant emissions. A one-dimensional model represents combustion on and within the porous medium using multistep chemistry, separate gas and energy equations, and a radiatively participating porous medium. We describe experimental measurements of NOx profiles above a surface-flame burner and compare them to model predictions. The model predicts NOx concentration with reasonable success. Deviations between model and experiment are primarily the result of heat loss in the experiment that is not considered in the model. Reaction rate analysis is performed to identify the chemical kinetic source of NO in the flame. Zeldovich NO is significant only at the highest firing rate studied (600 kW/m2, ϕ = 0.9), where it is responsible for 50-60% of the total NO. At the lower firing rates (200 and 300 kW/m2, ϕ = 0.9), where total NO is low, nearly all of the NO is formed in the flame front. Zeldovich NO accounts for 20-30% percent of the total NO, the Fenimore pathway accounts for less than 10% of the NO, and 50-75% percent of the NO is formed through the NNH, N2O and other paths. Sensitivity analysis shows that NO production in the flame front is most sensitive to NNH+O = NH+NO, with CH+N2 = HCN+N having the second highest sensitivity coefficient. At the lower firing rates NO emission is insensitive to porous medium properties, while at the high firing rate NO emission is slightly sensitive to porous medium properties.
Characterizaton of Thermochemical Conversion Processes in a Technical-Scale Fixed-Bed Reactor: Pyrolysis and Gasification
Authors: Diéguez-Alonso A. , Anca-Couce A. , Behrendt F.
Published: November 2015

Consolidated industrial application of biomass thermochemical conversion processes, such as pyrolysis and gasification, requires the development and application of control and optimization techniques. To this end, on-line process characterization, regarding mainly product distribution and composition under similar conditions as the ones encountered in industrial applications is needed. In the present study, slow pyrolysis and updraft gasification of thermally thick particles in a technical scale fixed-bed reactor are carried out under several process conditions. Different raw materials are used: pine wood chips, beech-wood spheres and cellulose. In pyrolysis, the increasing influence of transport phenomena in the conversion process due to the use of a technical-scale reactor and thermally thick wood particles is analysed through the temperature distribution inside the bed during the process together with the char properties characterization taken from four different positions inside the bed. The influence of process conditions, such as the N2 flow rate, on the products composition and distribution is also analysed. In gasification, the influence of the air to fuel ratio on the product gas composition is characterized, as well as the qualitative evolution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) representative species in the volatiles vapours by applying laser-induced fluorescence (LIF).
Fuel-Rich Premixed n-Heptane/Toluene Flame: a Molecular Beam Mass Spectrometry and Chemical Kinetic Study
Authors: Knyazkov D.A. , Slavinskaya N.A. , Dmitriev A.M. , Shmakov A.G. , Korobeinichev O.P. , Riedel U.
Published: November 2015

The mole fraction profiles of major flame species and intermediates including PAH precursors are measured in an atmospheric premixed burner-stabilized fuel-rich (φ = 1.75) n-heptane/toluene/O2/Ar flame (n-heptane/toluene ratio is 7:3 by liquid volume). These data are simulated with a detailed, extensively validated chemical kinetic reaction mechanism for combustion of n-heptane/toluene mixture, involving the reactions of PAH formation. The mechanism is extended with cross reactions for n-heptane and toluene derivatives. A satisfactory agreement between the new experimental data on the structure of n-heptane/toluene flame and the numerical simulations is observed. The mechanism reported can be successfully used in the models of practical fuel surrogates for reproducing the formation of soot precursors. The analysis of the reaction pathways shows that in the flame of the n-heptane/toluene blend (7:3 liquid volume ratio) the reactions dominant for the formation of the first aromatic ring (benzene and phenyl) are as those typical for pure toluene flames. The discrepancies between the measured and calculated species mole fractions are detected as well. The steps for the mechanism improvements are determined on the basis of the sensitivity analysis performed. To our knowledge, the measurements of mole fraction profiles of PAH and intermediates reported here, are the first of its kind and represent an unique data set extremely important for validation of chemical kinetic mechanisms for combustion of practical fuels.

 
Transported Joint Probability Density Function Modeling of Turbulent Dilute Spray Flows
Authors: Hu Y. , Gutheil E.
Published: November 2015

A transported joint probability density function (PDF) model for turbulent spray flows is presented, where a one-point one-time statistical description of the gas-phase mixture fraction and the gas velocity is used. This approach requires the closure of the molecular mixing, which is achieved through use of the extended interaction-by-exchange-with-the-mean (IEM) model and a simplified Langevin model for the closure of the gas velocity both of which are extended through additional terms accounting for spray evaporation. These equations require the solution of the turbulent time scales and the mean pressure field through a Eulerian description. The numerical approach includes a Lagrangian Monte Carlo method for the solution of modeled joint PDF equation with a Eulerian finite-volume algorithm to determine the turbulent time scale and the mean pressure field. For the dispersed liquid phase, Lagrangian equations are used to describe the droplet heating, evaporation, and motion in the framework of a discrete droplet model. The convective droplet evaporation model is employed, and the infinite conductivity model with consideration of non-equilibrium effects based on the Langmuir-Knudsen law is used. The droplet turbulent dispersion is modeled with two different Lagrangian stochastic models. The resulting spray evolution equations are solved by a Lagrangian discrete droplet method using the point source approximation for a dilute spray. The numerical results are compared with experimental data of Gounder et al. [1], where the experimental set B of the acetone spray flows SP2 and SP6 are simulated. Comparison of numerical and experimental results includes droplet size, liquid volume flux as well as the mean and fluctuating velocities. Generally, good agreement is achieved, although the radial droplet dispersion is somewhat under-predicted by the computations. The droplet fluctuating velocities show sensitivity to the different dispersion models.