bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Properties and Microstructure of Laser Welded VM12-SHC Steel Pipes Joints
Authors: Skrzypczyk A. , Danielewski H. 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
Paper presents results of microstructure and tests of welded joints of new generation VM12-SHC martensitic steel using high power CO2 laser (LBW method) with bifocal welding head. VM12-SHC is dedicated to energetic installation material, designed to replace currently used. High content of chromium and others alloying elements improve its resistance and strength characteristic. Use of VM12-SHC steel for production of the superheaters, heating chambers and walls in steam boilers resulted in various weldability researches. In article are presented results of destructive and non-destructive tests. For destructive: static bending and Vickers hardness tests, and for non-destructive: VT, RT, UT, micro and macroscopic tests were performed.
An Analysis of the Microstructure, Macrostructure and Microhardness of Nicr-Ir Joints Produced by Laser Welding with and without Preheat
Authors: Różowicz S. , Tofil Sz. , Zrak A. 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
This paper discusses some of the basic problems involved in laser welding of dissimilar materials with significant differences in melting points. It focuses on the micro and macrostructure of laser welded NiCr-Ir microjoints used in central spark plug electrodes. The joints were produced by welding with and without preheat using an Nd,YAG laser. The structure and composition of the welded joints were analyzed by means of a light microscope (LM) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with an energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectrometer. The microhardness of the weld area was also studied.
The Structure and Characteristics of Tribological Systems with Diamond Like Carbon Coatings under Ionic Liquid Lubrication Conditions
Authors: Madej M. , Ozimina D. , Kasińska J. , Hawlena J. 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
The results from the tests on tribological a-C:H diamond coatings deposited by PACVD (plasma assisted chemical vapour deposition) on 100Cr6 steel components are presented in this work. Mechanical properties - nanohardness and Young’s modulus - were assessed by instrumented indentation. Tribological tests were conducted with T-01M tester in a ball-on-disc test under dry and boundary friction conditions. Selected ionic liquids - synthetic new generation lubricants - were used for lubrication. The results from the experiments indicate that diamond-like coatings improved tribological characteristics of the friction pairs tested, with the ionic liquids intensifying this effect.
Microstructural Characterization and Mechanical Properties of Electron Beam Welded Joint of High Strength Steel Grade S690QL
Authors: Błacha S. , Węglowski M. St. , Dymek S. , Kopuściański M. 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
In the paper the results of metallographic examination and mechanical properties of electron beam welded joint of quenched and tempered steel grade S690QL are presented. Metallographic examination revealed that the concentrated electron beam significantly affect the changes of microstructure in the steel. Parent material as a delivered condition (quenched and tempered) had a bainitic-martensitic microstructure at hardness about 290 HV0.5. After welding, the microstructure of heat affected zone is composed mainly of martensite (in the vicinity of the fusion line) of hardness 420 HV0.5. It should be noted, however, that the microstructure of steel in the heat affected zone varies with the distance from the fusion line. The observed microstructural changes were in accordance with the CCT-S transformation diagram for the examined steel.
The Influence of the Dispersion Method on the Microstructure and Properties of MWCNTs/AA6061 Composites
Authors: Dobrzański L. A. , Macek M. , Tomiczek B. , Nuckowski P. M. , Nowak A. J. 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
The aim of this work was to study the effect of different methods of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) dispersion, and their influence on the microstructure and properties of aluminium alloy matrix composites produced using the powder metallurgy techniques, such as powder milling/mixing and hot extrusion. The main problem in the manufacturing of nanocomposites is the homogeneous distribution of MWCNTs in the metal matrix. To achieve their proper distribution a high-energy and low-energy mechanical milling, using a planetary ball mill, and mixing, using a turbulent mixer, were applied. Studies have shown that composite materials prepared using milling and extrusion have a much better dispersion of the reinforcing phase, which leads to better mechanical properties of the obtained rods. The low-energy mechanical mixing and mixing using the turbulent mixer neither change the powder morphology nor lead to adequate dispersion of the carbon nanotubes, which directly affects the resulting properties.
Experimental and Thermodynamic Study of Selected in-Situ Composites from the Fe-Cr-Ni-Mo-C System
Authors: Wieczerzak K. , Bala P. , Dziurka R. , Stepien M. , Tokarski T. , Cios G. , Gorecki K. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractThe aim of the study was to synthesize and characterize the selected in-situ composites from the Fe-Cr-Ni-Mo-C system, additionally strengthened by intermetallic compounds. The project of the alloys was supported by thermodynamic simulations using Calculation of Phase Diagram approach via Thermo-Calc. Selected alloys were synthesized in an arc furnace in a high purity argon atmosphere using a suction casting unit. The studies involved a range of experimental techniques to characterize the alloys in the as-cast state, including optical emission spectrometry, light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, electron microprobe analysis, X-ray diffraction and microhardness tests. These experimental studies were compared with the Thermo-Calc data and high resolution dilatometry. The results of investigations presented in this paper showed that there is a possibility to introduce intermetallic compounds, such as χ and σ, through modification of the chemical composition of the alloy with respect to Nieq and Creq. It was found that the place of intermetallic compounds precipitation strongly depends on matrix nature. Results presented in this paper may be successfully used to build a systematic knowledge about the group of alloys with a high volume fraction of complex carbides, and high physicochemical properties, additionally strengthened by intermetallic compounds.
Synthesis, Characterization and Thermal Diffusivity of Holmium and Praseodymium Zirconates
Authors: Stopyra M. , Niemiec D. , Moskal G. 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
A2B2O7 oxides with pyrochlore or defected fluorite structure are among the most promising candidates for insulation layer material in thermal barrier coatings. The present paper presents the procedure of synthesis of holmium zirconate Ho2Zr2O7 and praseodymium zirconate Pr2Zr2O7 via Polymerized-Complex Method (PCM). Thermal analysis of precursor revealed that after calcination at relatively low temperature (700°C) fine-crystalline, single-phase material is obtained. Thermal diffusivity was measured in temperature range 25-200°C, Ho2Zr2O7 exhibits lower thermal diffusivity than Pr2Zr2O7. Additionally, PrHoZr2O7 was synthesized. The powder in as-calcined condition is single-phase, but during the sintering decomposition of solid solution took place and Ho-rich phase precipitated. This material exhibited the best insulating properties among the tested ones.
Exploring the unlimited possibilities of modular aspheric Gauss to top-hat beam shaping
Authors: Möhl Anna , Fuchs Ulrike 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
Beam shaping is a field of research with growing importance. Therefore, a new refractive beam shaping system is presented. The knowledge gained from analyzing patent systems was used to derive our own improved design. It is compared to a patent system, and some selected results are presented in this work. Furthermore, possibilities to scale the entrance and exit beam diameters with the help of SPA™ Beam Expander Kit and SPA™ AspheriColl (both from asphericon GmbH, Jena, Germany) are shown, so that a modular top-hat generation is achievable. Additionally, the large spectral range in which the beam shaping system is applicable is demonstrated, and it is demonstrated how the beam shaping system can be used to improve the performance of other optical elements that require a top-hat beam profile.
The Risk of Variable Annuity Guarantees and Life Insurer Capital
Authors: Baranoff Etti , Sager Thomas , Shi Bo 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
Recently, concerns have been raised about the systemic financial threat potentially posed by life insurers. In part, these concerns have arisen because of life insurer involvement in the sales of variable annuity products with put-like performance guarantees. Guarantees expose life insurers to the market risks of mutual funds that are directed by their policyholders. In 2007, U.S. policyholders held about $500 billion in variable annuity accounts subject to guarantees issued by insurers. In this study we examine life insurer management of the risks of these guarantees, with emphasis on management of capital buffers. We introduce actuarial/regulatory and exposure-based proxies for these risks. Surprisingly, we find a robust and paradoxical result. In the years immediately prior to the Great 2008 Recession, the assumption of additional guarantee risk was associated with reductions in capital (contradicting the finite risk hypothesis), ceteris paribus. The result survives the attempts of two regression models designed to uncover explanatory confounders. The result can inform the debate on systemic risk and capital adequacy for life insurers.
Cognitive Impairment in Schizophrenia, Neurotransmitters and the New Atypical Antipsychotic Aripiprazole
Authors: Topolov Mariyan K. , Getova Damianka P. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractCognition is a group of mental processes that includes the capacity to perceive, think, learn and to study, and the capacity of the brain to analyze information and program adaptive behaviour. Although there has been an appreciable evolution in the therapy of psychoses in the last twenty-five years, cognitive disturbances still persist in spite of antipsychotic treatment. The cognitive decay disrupts the ability of clinically diagnosed patients with psychoses, mainly schizophrenia, to learn and to memorize skills that are useful for their family and social relationships. Moreover, cognitive deficiency is often considered to be crucial for further rehabilitation. In atypical antipsychotics there are big differences in the effects on cognitive functions. Some clinical studies demonstrate the benefits of a third generation of antipsychotics on cognitive functions in patients treated for mental illnesses. In the present study we have reviewed many articles investigating the influence of aripiprazole on cognition in human and animal subjects. Aripiprazole is a third generation antipsychotic drug that possesses a unique pharmacodynamic profile, which in conjunction with recently published scientific data on the drugs’ influence on antidepressant, anxiolytic and cognitive functions, suggests a highly positive future potential for restorative cognitive treatment and ongoing healthy function. The data included in the review will contribute to determining the potential benefits of aripiprazole on memory and training processes.
Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 in Hospitalized COPD Patients: Impact on Quality of Life and Lung Function
Authors: Mekov Evgeni V. , Slavova Yanina G. , Genova Marianka P. , Tsakova Adelina D. , Kostadinov Dimitar T. , Minchev Delcho D. , Marinova Dora M. , Boyanov Mihail A. 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is estimated to affect 2-37% of COPD patients, results varying widely between studies. DM may also correlate with quality of life and lung function.
Aim: To examine correlations between DM and quality of life and lung function in COPD patients admitted to hospital with exacerbation of COPD.
Patients and methods: A hundred and fifty-two patients were included in the study. They were all examined for diabetes mellitus. All patients completed CAT and mMRC questionnaires and underwent spirometry.
Results: 13.2% (20/152) of patients received medications for DM. 21.7% (33/152) had newly diagnosed DM and 30.9% (47/152) had prediabetes. DM is not associated with reduced quality of life and worse pulmonary function. However, untreated DM is associated with both reduced quality of life and worse pulmonary function. HbA1c is negatively correlated with FVC and positively correlated with CAT score.
Conclusions: COPD patients hospitalized for exacerbation are at high risk for impaired glucose metabolism. Untreated DM is associated with worse lung function and lower quality of life, which stresses the importance of screening for the disease. The patients may benefit from optimizing blood glucose level.
Scanning Еlectron Мicroscopy of Еnamel and Dentin of Тeeth with Hypocalcified Аmelogenesis Imperfecta
Authors: Belcheva Ani B. , Philipov Ivan At. , Tomov Georgi T. 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
The histological features of teeth with hypocalcified amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) have been poorly studied, which calls into question the effectiveness of modern adhesive techniques used in the treatment of these noncarious defects.
Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the morphological features of the enamel and dentin of teeth with AI using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and compare these features with those of healthy teeth.
Materials and methods: We examined four primary teeth extracted on indication from a 10-year-old girl with hypocalcified amelogenesis imperfecta. The same number of primary teeth extracted from healthy subjects was used as controls. The morphological characteristics of the enamel and dentin are described after investigating the teeth and photographing the specimens with scanning electron microscope.
Results: The SEM photos of the enamel of AI teeth show presence of external defects, incorrectly oriented enamel prisms and enlarged interprism spaces. Thickening of the peritubular dentin and partially obliterated dentinal tubules characterize the dentin of these teeth.
Conclusion: The enamel and dentin of teeth affected by hypocalcified AI diff er considerably from normal hard dental structures in their morphological characteristics.
Expression Of Cytokeratin 18 In The Peripheral Nerves
Authors: Marettová E. 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
The perineurium constitutes the basis for the regulation of endoneurial fluid homeostasis. In the work presented here, cytokeratin 18, as an immunohistochemical marker for epithelial cells, was used to identify the perineurium in the peripheral nerves of two species. Two organs, rich in peripheral nerves, were used; the tongue of the bull and the ductus deferens of the male goat. Special attention was paid to one of the the nerve sheath cells - the perineurial cells of myelinated nerves in the skeletal muscle of the tongue and in the smooth muscle in the wall of the ductus deferens. A positive reaction to cytokeratin 18 was found in the perineurial cells of the perineurial sheath in the nerves of various sizes. No difference in the reactivity was observed between the peripheral nerves of the tongue and that of the ductus deferens.
Interobserver Variation in Canine Hip Dysplasia Evaluation
Authors: Ledecky V. , Hluchy M. , Liptak T. , Kuricova M. 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) is a common disease representing an important problem for many dog breeds worldwide. The screening for CHD and breeding programs have been ongoing for many decades but the incidence of disease have failed to be reduced to the expected level. The early diagnosis of CHD is paramount in order to facilitate the early management strategies and to prevent the breeding of the affected individuals. Generally in this area, the emphasis is placed on the radiographic evaluation process, however this is partly a subjective process suggested to be influenced by the experience of the observers. This study was designed to evaluate the interobserver agreement in CHD evaluation based on the Federation Cynologique International system (FCI system). Ten original radiographs were sent to five different groups of observers, from students to certified veterinarians. They were asked to evaluate the ventro-dorsal radiographs according to the FCI system which is the most common system used in Europe to give the final grades (A, B, C, D, E). The grades were converted to numbers and the data were analysed using a one-way ANOVA test. The results showed that only in 20% of the cases, the interobserver agreement was statistically higher in the group of the most experienced observers when compared to the less experienced group of observers. This means that the level of experience does not always lead to a higher agreement. This could be a problem of widespread objective evaluations of CHD. In addition, there are several different systems of evaluation used in various countries. It is necessary to understand the intention of dog owners, who when buying a dog may be planning its first breeding. Therefore, the “correct” or “incorrect” assessment of the CHD radiographs may not always result in the elimination of affected individuals. We do not know exactly the situation of the development of the hip in some breeds, because scrutineers are receiving only “negative radiographs” for evaluation. Many owners are very educated about hip and elbow dysplasia. It is a time to tell the scientific truth.
Development of molecules stimulating the activity of KLK3 – an update
Authors: Koistinen Hannu , Wallén Erik , Ylikangas Henna , Meinander Kristian , Lahtela-Kakkonen Maija , Närvänen Ale , Stenman Ulf-Håkan 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
Kallikrein-related peptidase-3 (KLK3, known also as prostate-specific antigen, PSA) is highly expressed in the prostate. KLK3 possess antiangiogenic activity, which we have found to be related to its proteolytic activity. Thus, it may be possible to slow down the growth of prostatic tumors by enhancing this activity. We have developed peptides that enhance the proteolytic activity of KLK3. As these peptides are degraded in circulation and rapidly excreted, we have started to modify them and have succeeded in creating bioactive and more stable pseudopeptides. We have also identified small molecules stimulating the activity of KLK3, especially in synergy with peptides.
Social Capital, Well-Being and Municipality: Salaspils Municipality (Latvia) Case
Authors: Jēkabsone Inga , Sloka Biruta 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
During the last three decades, social capital has gained prominence throughout the social sciences. The concepts has been analysed in various manners (from perspectives of economics, political sciences, sociology, anthropology etc.) providing wide range of theoretical conceptualizations. The aim of paper is to analyse the relation of social capital and possibility to improve the well-being of the municipality’s citizens using co-responsibility approach. In order to achieve the aim, the tasks are formulated as follows: 1) to review theoretical background for concept of social capital and subjective well-being, 2) to analyse the factors of social capital at local level, and 3) to use the results of conducted empirical research at Salaspils municipality in analysing the correlation of level of social capital and possibility to improve well-being implementing inclusive local management. Research methods used: Scientific literature studies, several stages of focus group discussions, statistical data analysis, SPIRAL methodology, scenario method. The main findings of the paper - there are evidences on relation of social capital and possibility to improve the well-being of the municipality’s citizens. In municipalities with sufficient level of social capital are good opportunities to use participatory techniques for achieving higher level of overall well-being. The paper consists of practical value how to mobilise the social capital of the municipality in order to ensure the inclusive management of the territory.
The Global Consumption and Income Project (GCIP): An Overview
Authors: Lahoti Rahul , Jayadev Arjun , Reddy Sanjay 
Published: July 2016

AbstractWe introduce two separate datasets [The Global Consumption Dataset (GCD) and The Global Income Dataset (GID)] making possible an unprecedented portrait of consumption and income of persons over time, within and across countries, around the world. The current benchmark version of the dataset presents estimates of monthly real consumption and income for every percentile of the population (a “consumption/income profile”) for more than 160 countries and more than half a century (1960–2015). We describe the construction of the datasets and demonstrate possible uses by presenting some sample results concerning the distribution of consumption, poverty and inequality in the world.
Rapid Assessment of Key Structural Elements of Different Vegetation Types of West African Savannas in Burkina Faso
Authors: Qasim Mohammad , Porembski Stefan , Stein Katharina , Lindner André 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
Estimations of Leaf Area Index (LAI) have recently gained attention due to the sensitivity to the effects of climate change and its impact on forest ecosystems. Hence, a study was conducted on the LAI estimation of four vegetation types: (i) gallery forests, (ii) woodland savannas, (iii) tree savannas, and (iv) shrub savannas, at two protected areas of Nazinga Game Ranch and Bontioli Nature Reserve, Burkina Faso. A relationship between LAI and Crown Diameter was also investigated at these two sites. Digital hemispherical photography was used for the LAI estimation. Crown diameters (CD) were determined perpendicular to each other and averaged for each tree and shrub. Overall results revealed that LAI ranged from 0-1.33 and the CD was recorded in the range of 0.46-11.01 m. The gallery forests recorded the highest mean LAI 1.33 ± 0.32 as well as the highest mean CD 7.69 ± 1.90 m. The LAI for the vegetation types were at their lower ends as the study was conducted in summer season, higher values are therefore expected in the wet season, as a significant correlation between LAI and precipitation has been emphasized by various studies. Continuous LAI monitoring and studies on various growth parameters of different vegetation types at the study sites are recommended towards enhanced monitoring and an ecologically feasible forest- and savanna-use and management to maintain essential ecosystem functions and services.
One Approach to the Synthesis, Design and Manufacture of Hyperboloid Gear Sets With Face Mating Gears. Part 1: Basic Theoretical and Cad Experience
Authors: Abadjiev Valentin , Abadjieva Emilia 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
Hyperboloid gear drives with face mating gears are used to transform rotations between shafts with non-parallel and non-intersecting axes. A special case of these transmissions are Spiroid and Helicon gear drives. The classical gear drives of this type are the Archimedean ones. The objective of this study are hyperboloid gear drives with face meshing, when the pinion possesses threads of conic convolute, Archimedean and involute types, or the pinion has threads of cylindrical convolute, Archimedean and involute types. For simplicity, all three types transmis- sions with face mating gears and a conic pinion are titled Spiroid and all three types transmissions with face mating gears and a cylindrical pinion are titled Helicon.
Principles of the mathematical modelling of tooth contact synthesis are discussed in this study. The presented research shows that the synthesis is realized by application of two mathematical models: pitch contact point and mesh region models. Two approaches for synthesis of the gear drives in accordance with Olivier’s principles are illustrated. The algorithms and computer programs for optimization synthesis and design of the studied hyperboloid gear drives are presented.