bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dietary Acid, Age, and Serum Bicarbonate Levels among Adults in the United States
Authors: Amodu Afolarin , Abramowitz Matthew K. 
Published: September 2013

Summary

Background and objectives
Greater dietary acid has been associated with lower serum bicarbonate levels in patients with CKD. Whether this association extends to the general population and if it is modified by age are unknown.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements
This study examined the association of the dietary acid load, estimated by net endogenous acid production, with serum bicarbonate levels in adult participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2004.

Results
The mean serum bicarbonate was 24.9 mEq/L (SEM=0.1), and the mean estimated net endogenous acid production was 57.4 mEq/d (SEM=0.4). Serum bicarbonate was linearly associated with age, such that the oldest participants had the highest serum bicarbonate levels. After multivariable adjustment, participants in the highest quartile of net endogenous acid production had 0.40 mEq/L (95% confidence interval, −0.55 to −0.26) lower serum bicarbonate and a 33% (95% confidence interval, 3 to 72) higher likelihood of acidosis compared with those participants in the lowest quartile. There was a significant interaction by age of the association of net endogenous acid production with serum bicarbonate (P=0.005). Among participants 20–39, 40–59, and ≥60 years old, those participants in the highest net endogenous acid production quartile had 0.26 (95% confidence interval, −0.49 to −0.03), 0.60 (95% confidence interval, −0.92 to −0.29), and 0.49 (95% confidence interval, −0.84 to −0.14) mEq/L lower serum bicarbonate, respectively, compared with participants in the lowest quartile.

Conclusion
Greater dietary acid is associated with lower serum bicarbonate in the general US population, and the magnitude of this association is greater among middle-aged and elderly persons than younger adults.
Romania – Dimensions of Regional Cultural Specificity
Authors: Neculăesei Angelica Nicoleta 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
An increasing importance is given to intercultural research in management. The cultural “inheritance” of individuals is of interest to us from a double perspective: a) to avoid problems that can arise from ignoring their value profile, b) for valuing it by positive “exploitation”. Cultural positioning is achieved by comparisons made according to certain criteria (cultural dimensions). They are known in the literature and for ethical approaches they emphasize cultural similarities and differences. Although they largely reflect the values of culture, they can not cover issues that come from the known sphere for the ones who propose them. Based on this idea, in this study we have adapted cultural dimensions to the Romanian cultural specificity elements, based on a comprehensive inventory of values, developed following a diachronic exploratory analysis. Furthermore, we have proposed two new dimensions that reflect regional specificities.
Has the NAFTA Foundation Affected Business Cycles Length? An Introduction
Authors: Dapontas Dimitrios , Evangelopoulos Panagiotis 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
This paper is explaining the relationship between NAFTA foundation and business cycles length. Has the participation in a multinational organization changed their frequency? Initially; we used GDP per capita growth annual data for each country countries (Canada, Mexico and USA) for 63 years (1950-2012). The data was cut for each country in two pieces one before the 1995 and one on the year of integration and after. Then we selected their spectral density plots in order to find periodicity eliminating the background noise from a periodogram. The results show that Canada doubled its cycle length progressively. Mexico and USA seem to have currently smaller but growing cycles than they used to have.
Exergy Balances and Entropy Generation Rates as the Mathematical Models Falsification Method Applied for Aluminium Electrolysis Processes
Authors: Hołda A. , Kolenda Z. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
A new method of falsification of the mathematical model of the processes taking place inside the aluminium electrolysis cell has been proposed. The method is based on the comparison of the calculation results of the entropy generation rates obtained in theoretical way with the exergy losses estimated from global exergy balance equation. Following irreversible processes have been analyzed - electric current flow, diffusion at the cathode, heat and electric current flow through the anode and cathode, irreversible carbon combustion, heat transfer from electrolyser to the surroundings and convection inside the electrolyte. Exergy balance calculations have been based on the experimental results from industry. The proposed procedure shows good accuracy between mathematical model and experimental data.
Strain-Induced Austenitic Structure in Microalloyed Steels
Authors: Dziedzic D. , Muszka K. , Majta J. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
Austenite morphology is one of the main factors determining austenite-ferrite transformation kinetic and effectively affects the final microstructure and properties. The basic criteria for proper assessment of the austenite transformation products, theirs refinement, is the relation between the nucleation to growth rates. The main factor accelerating both, the nucleation rate of austenite during heating, and ferrite during cooling is the presence of accumulated deformation energy. The primary aim of this work is to increase our knowledge of the effects of deformation - its accumulated energy on the austenite structure and properties. Two specific steel grades were selected for the present investigation, i.e. microalloyed and IF steel, essentially different in equilibrium transformation temperatures. Obtained austenitic microstructures were analyzed, first of all as a start point for the austenite-to-ferrite transformation. Specific case of this transformation was considered i.e. Strain Induced Dynamic Transformation SIDT. The characteristic feature of the SIDT is the strong dependence of theirs kinetic on the austenite morphology, especially grain size. Thermomechanical processing, that utilize the SIDT, is one of the most effective ways to produce ultrafine-grained steel. One of the main benefits of the austenite refinement, just before the γ→α transformation, is its significant effect on the microstructure evolution during subsequent thermomechanical processing. Experimental results clearly show how direct and positive influence the austenite grain refinement has on the composition and refinement of transformation products. Presented study was focused on Strain Induced Dynamic Reverse Transformation. It is proved that this kind of transformation is very efficient way to intensify thermomechanical processing of microalloyed steels. Dynamic transformation kinetics were analyzed based upon flow curves recorded during the SIDT process. The main effect of presented research is analyze of influence of prior microstructure on dynamically formed austenite morphology
Thermal Fatigue of the Selected Tool Steel Applied for Metal Moulds Elements in Die Casting of Metals
Authors: Zych J. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
The work presents the results of research on thermal fatigue resistance of four steel grades used in the production of metal moulds for pressure diecasting. Thermal fatigue tests were performed on an original test bench using the L.F Coffin method - resistance heated samples. The steels additionally contained alloy additives in the following proportions: Cr = 5.0 ÷5.3%, Mo = 1.30 ÷3.0%, and V = 0.50 ÷1.0%. The thermal fatigue was analyzed using the temperature cycle: Tmin = 200°C; Tmax = 700 ÷750°C. The samples endured between few to few dozens of thousands of temperature cycles in the above temperature range. Steel with maximum vanadium content exhibited the highest level of resistance.
Innovated Construction of Tundish Cover with Increased Service Durability
Authors: Stachurski W. , Łukasik J. , Kwinta G. , Sobula S. , Ostafin Sz. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
In this study a new concept of the cover for installation for continuous casting of steel have been studied and discussed. The main essence in the most favourable construction includes the existing stresses and strains developed in service conditions. Instead of former cover, made with heat-resistant concrete and flat plate, the new solution introduced two factors: increased rigidity whole cover and new thermal insulation material. It is a composite refractory material, more light, plastic and more resistant for thermal shocks. In the final results, the new tundish cover confirmed in practice prolongation of the cover exploitation from 15-25 000 tones to above 90 000 tones poured steel.
Integrated Recycling Process of Matrices of Organic Moulding Sands
Authors: Dańko R. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
The idea and experimental verification of assumptions of the integrated recycling process of matrices of uniform self-hardening moulding sands with synthetic resins, leading to obtaining moulding sands matrix of expected quality - is presented in the hereby paper. The basis of the presented process constitutes a combination of the method of forecasting averaged ignition losses of moulding sands after casting and defining the range of necessary matrix reclamation treatments in order to obtain its full recycling. Simultaneously, the empirically determined dependence of dusts amounts emitted during the reclamation process of the matrix from the given spent sand on the ignition loss values (which is the most proper assessment index of the obtained reclaimed material quality) was taken into account. The special experimental stand for investigations of the matrix recycling process was one of the elements of the conceptual approach and verification of its assumptions. The stand was equipped with the system of current on-line control of the purification degree of matrix grains from organic binder remains. The results of own investigations, allowing to combine ignition loss values of spent moulding sands after casting knocking out with amounts of dusts generated during the mechanical reclamation treatment of such sands, were utilized in the system.
Ductile Cast Iron Obtain by Lost Foam Process and Inmold Method
Authors: Kaczorowski R. , Just P. , Pacyniak T. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
This paper presents a technology of ductile cast iron obtain by lost foam process with use of inmold method. Spheroidization was carried out using master alloy in an amount of 1.5% by mass on casting iron. Research the influence of the gating system configuration and the shape of the reaction chamber, the degree of spheroidization cast iron, which estimated based on the shape of the graphite. Research have shown that the greatest impact on the degree of spheroidization has cast the infusion position relative to the casting inlet and the reaction chamber, and the shape of the reaction chamber.
Pulsating Gas Dosage in the Moulding Sands Hardening Process in the Cold-Box Technology
Authors: Zych J. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
The results of investigations of the moulding sands hardening process in the cold-box technology - with an application of two ways of gas dosage - are presented in the paper. A new, ultrasound method of testing the kinetics of hardening of moulding sands with chemical binders was applied. Moulding sands with phenol-formaldehyde resin and moulding sands with water-glass hardened by CO2:, were subjected to investigations. A continuous gas dosage was substituted by the pulsating one. It was shown, that the change of the dosage mode could lead to decreasing the gas consumption (even several times). In addition, it was found that the pulsating way of dosage provides improvements of moulding sands technological properties, mainly strength. Investigations concerned the cold-box processes, in which one or two technological gases were used.
Modified Low Cycle Method as a New Criterion for a Life Fatigue Assessment in Foundry Industry
Authors: Maj M. , Pietrzak K. , Piekło J. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
The study describes the investigations of fatigue life carried out on selected grades of the G20Mn5 cast steel by two methods, i.e. the standard low-cycle fatigue test (LCF test) and modified low-cycle fatigue test (MLCF). The aim of these investigations was to verify the reliability of tests conducted by the novel method of MLCF [1, 2, 3].
Table 1 shows the results of mechanical tests carried out in accordance with the MLCF methodology on the G20Mn5 cast steel, while Figures 1a-b and 2 show the selected σ = f (ε) curves. Similar studies were carried out for the Mn-Ni cast steel [4].
Low-cycle fatigue tests (LCF) were carried out on an MTS 810 testing machine with control of force exerted on specimens whose dimensions were specified in [2].
Advanced Methods of Foundry Processes Control
Authors: Perzyk M. , Kozlowski J. , Wislocki M. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
The paper discusses two main approaches utilized in contemporary industry to control of discrete and continuous manufacturing processes: Statistical Process Control and Engineering Process Control as well as applications of learning systems and time-series analysis in the control systems. The use of time-series techniques for anticipated control of selected foundry processes is presented and positively evaluated using industry data obtained from the green molding sand processing.
Crystallizer’s Desks Surface Diagnostics with Usage of Robotic System
Authors: David J. , Jančíiková Z. , Frischer R. , Vrožina M. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
Discussed problems are solved in Arcelor Mittal Ostrava a.s. company. VSB-TU Ostrava has its share on this solution in the frame of grant project TIP. The project has several goals, which relate with primary cooling system area in CSCD (Continuous Steel Casting Device). One target is concerned about surface quality of crystallizer’s desks, also from point of view of its quality evaluation.in terms of project solution was solved a crystallizer’s desks defects catalogue and methodology of their evaluation. Also was made methodology for quality evaluation of narrow crystallizer’s desks, which are dismantled in maintenance area. There were proposed a laser scanning of the crystallizer’s desks surface with usage of Laser sensor. In cooperation with DASFOS CZ, s.r.o. was proposed new method of inner crystallizer’s chamber measuring. In this paper are presented partial results of this solution, including first results from prototyped measuring device.
Reclamation of Spent Moulding Sands with Inorganic Binders in the Vibratory Reclaimer Regmas
Authors: Dańko J. , Kamińska J. , Skrzyńsk M. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
The results of the reclamation of spent moulding sands with inorganic binder in the prototype vibratory reclaimer REGMAS - are presented in the paper. Spent moulding sands with modified water-glass, burned as well as not burned, present in a form of agglomerates (lumps), were subjected to the reclamation processes.
During individual reclamation cycles the reclaimer efficiency and vibrations amplitudes were determined and physicalchemical and strength investigations were performed for the obtained reclaim materials. The obtained reclaim was used as a component of the matrix of moulding sands with water-glass in the Floster S technology, in which the reclaim constituted 100%, 80% and 50% of the sand matrix - respectively.
Morphology of the terminal aorta
Authors: Butoi G. , Iliescu D.M. , Baz R. , Bordei P. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
We evaluated the termination of the abdominal aorta in relation with the vertebral column in 142 cases, finding it between middle 1/3 of the L3 vertebra and L5-S1 intervertebral disc. At the level of the L4 vertebra the abdominal aorta ends in 71 of the cases, following, in the order of the frequency, the L4-L5 intervertebral disk with 40 cases, the L5 vertebra with 14 cases, the L3-L4 intervertebral disc with 10 cases, the L3 vertebra with 6 cases and only in one case at the L5-S1 intervertebral disc. The aortic termination above the L4 vertebra was considered a high termination, 11.27% of cases, and the origin below the L4-L5 intervertebral disc was considered a low termination, 10.56% of cases. The bifurcation of the aorta in relation to mid-vertebral line was assessed on 138 cases, with 79 cases on the left, 38 on the midline and in 21 cases the aortic bifurcation was right to the midline. The distance between the aortic bifurcation and the sacro-vertebral joint (promontory) was between 40 - 82 mm. The aortic bifurcation related to the origin of the inferior vena cava was assessed on 38 cases, finding that most frequently, in 27 cases, the bifurcation was above the level of origin of the inferior vena cava, with a distance of between 2 - 3 mm and up to 45 mm. In 7 cases it was located below the origin of the inferior vena cava and in 4 cases the aortic bifurcation was located at the same level with the origin of the inferior vena cava.
Characteristics of some anatomical landmarks on the anterior face of the maxilla
Authors: Stan M.Cr. , Bordei P. , Dina C. , Iliescu D.M. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
The canine bossa (not listed in TA) was clearly visible in 80% of cases, less prominent in 12% of cases or even absent in 8% of cases. The most commonly is oval in shape with the long axis oriented vertically or slightly oblique infero-medially. In 60% of cases the two fossae showed approximately equal sizes. For the rest of the 40% of the cases, the left one was larger (24 cases) than the right one. In 12% of cases we found a dehiscent anterior wall of the canine fossa for more than half of its height. The myrtiform fossa (also not mentioned in the TA) was oval, with the long axis oriented vertically and with same dimensions bilaterally in 60% of cases. In 2/3 of cases was evident (deeper) on the right. In 28% of cases we found it rounded, more frequently also on the right and in 12% of cases we found it as having an irregular shape. In about 10% of cases have it was almost flat. The canine fossa (Fossa canina) has various shapes, more frequently rounded with an average diameter of 0.8-0.9 cm. In 30% of cases was oval, with vertical long axis of 1 cm in and 0.7 cm width. The cases of rounded canine fossa, well circumscribed and deeper, were more prevalent on the left. The infraorbital foramen (Foramen infraorbitale) was circular in equal proportions (in half of the cases), with a diameter of 2.5-5 mm, or oval, with 3-5 mm vertical axis and 1.5-3 mm horizontal axis. Note the difference in shape in the same skull: circular on the left and oval on the right (most frequent case) or vice versa. The distance from the infraorbital border is variable, being lower on the left in 65% of cases. Compared to the piriform aperture, the infraorbital foramen is located at 0.9 to 1.7 cm on the right and at 1.2-1.7 cm on the left. We encountered five cases with double infraorbital foramen. The intermaxillary suture is vertical in only 35% of cases. In other cases it is deviated to the left in 40% of cases, and in 25% of the cases is oriented to the right. The degree of inclination is variable, making with the horizontal an angle between 95 to 1100. The alveolar process (Procesus alveolaris) is wider posteriorly. There is a difference in width right-to-left, being wider on the right side in 40% of cases (6-13 mm), are the same size on both sides in 30% of cases, the other 30% of cases being thicker on the left.
The zygomatic process (Procesus zygomaticus) may be sharp or, more frequently, with a serrated or rounded edge and with a small tubercle in almost 50% of cases
Financial management within the health system
Authors: Popa M.F. , Parlica Ionut 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
The financial management within the medical management plays a very important role considering the fact that health care costs a lot of money. The health care system is greatly influenced by the allocated funds so that there are types of health care systems depending on the allocation and collection of funds and depending on the payments of the services providers. There are several mechanisms for financing the health care system of which the most important are represented by the state budget funding and voluntary health insurance. In terms of financial management, is a reform within the Romanian health care system mainly focused on reducing the number of hospitals and restructuring the County Health Houses
The evolution of pain in knee osteoarthiritis treatment with sodium hyaluronate
Authors: Ciobotaru Camelia , Iliescu Madalina , Arghir Oana 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
Although the knee osteoarthritis is often benign, severe degenerative modifications can determine serious malfunction. In joints affected by arthritic processes, Sodium hyaluronate is found in reduced concentrations, the normal articular cartilage being replaced by fibrocartilage [6].
The present concepts suggest that osteoarthritis is not a predictable stage in ageing and prophylactic and therapeutic approaches could be taken in the future
Physical and Technical Energy Problems: Testing of the Prototype for State Estimation of Large-Scale Power Systems / Lielo Energosistēmu Stāvokļa Novērtēšanas Prototipa Testēšana
Authors: Kochukov O. , Briņķis K. , Mutule A. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
The paper describes the algorithm for distributed state estimation (SE) and is focused on its testing and validation. For this purpose, different events in the modeled power system of the 330-750 kV electrical ring Latvia - Lithuania - Belarus - Smolensk - Moscow - St. Petersburg - Estonia - Latvia were considered. The methods for testing the Inter-TSO SE prototype and dynamic network monitoring & modeling are based on comparison of the available SCADA data about real events with those of SE calculation. In total, four operational states were studied, including initial, accident and two post-accident operational states
Design of Current Source Dc/Dc Converter for Interfacing a 5 Kw Pem Fuel Cell / Paaugstinošā Strāvas Avota Līdzsprieguma Pārveidotāja Izstrāde 5 Kw Ūdeņraža Degvielas Elementam
Authors: Andreičiks A. , Steiks I. , Krievs O. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
In domestic applications the low DC output voltage of a hydrogen fuel cell used as the main power supply or a backup power source has to be matched to the level and frequency of the AC voltage of utility grid. The interfacing power converter system usually consists of a DC/DC converter and an inverter. In this work, a DC/DC step-up converter stage is designed for interfacing a 5kW proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell. The losses of DC/DC conversion are estimated and, basing on the relevant analysis, the most appropriate configuration of converter modules is selected for a DC/DC converter stage of increased efficiency. The authors present the results of experimental analysis and simulation for the selected configuration of four double inductor step-up push-pull converter modules
Structure, Composition and Magnetic Properties of Ferrofluid Nanoparticles after Separation / Feromagnētisko Šķidrumu Nanodaļiņu Struktūras, Sastāva un Magnētisko Īpašību Izmaiņas Pēc Separācijas
Authors: Kronkalns G. , Kodols M. , Maiorov M.M. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
The structure, composition and magnetic properties of iron oxide nanoparticles are studied as dependent on the synthesis technology and method of separation in ferrofluids. The goal of the present study is to improve the magnetic properties of wet-synthesized nanoparticles and achieve a narrow nanoparticle size distribution. The results of measurements show that by varying the conditions of the chemical coprecipitation method, different compositions and structures of the nanoparticles could be obtained. The separation of ferrite nanoparticles of a polydisperse colloid by centrifugation as well as by HGMS provides the possibility to obtain a nanoparticle set with narrow size distribution