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The detrimental impact of malnutrition and cachexia in cancer patients subjected to surgical resection is well established. However, how systemic and local metabolic alterations in cancer patients impact the serum metabolite signature, thereby leading to cancer‐specific differences, is poorly defined. In order to implement metabolomics as a potential tool in clinical diagnostics and disease follow‐up, targeted metabolite profiling based on quantitative measurements is essential. We hypothesized that the quantitative metabolic profile assessed by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy can be used to identify cancer‐induced catabolism and potentially distinguish between specific tumour entities. Importantly, to prove tumour dependency and assess metabolic normalization, we additionally analysed the metabolome of patients' sera longitudinally post‐surgery in order to assess metabolic normalization. Forty two metabolites in sera of patients with tumour entities known to cause malnutrition and cachexia, namely, upper gastrointestinal cancer and pancreatic cancer, as well as sera of healthy controls, were quantified by 1H NMR spectroscopy. Comparing serum metabolites of patients with gastrointestinal cancer with healthy controls and pancreatic cancer patients, we identified at least 15 significantly changed metabolites in each comparison. Principal component and pathway analysis tools showed a catabolic signature in preoperative upper gastrointestinal cancer patients. The most specifically upregulated metabolite group in gastrointestinal cancer patients was ketone bodies (3‐hydroxybutyrate, P< 0.0001; acetoacetate, P< 0.0001; acetone, P< 0.0001; false discovery rate [FDR] adjusted). Increased glycerol levels (P< 0.0001), increased concentration of the ketogenic amino acid lysine (P= 0.03) and a significant correlation of 3‐hydroxybutyrate levels with branched‐chained amino acids (leucine, P= 0.02; isoleucine, P= 0.04 [FDR adjusted]) suggested that ketone body synthesis was driven by lipolysis and amino acid breakdown. Interestingly, the catabolic signature was independent of the body mass index, clinically assessed malnutrition using the nutritional risk screening score, and systemic inflammation assessed by CRP and leukocyte count. Longitudinal measurements and principal component analyses revealed a quick normalization of key metabolic alterations seven days post‐surgery, including ketosis. Together, the quantitative metabolic profile obtained by 1H NMR spectroscopy identified a tumour‐induced catabolic signature specific to upper gastrointestinal cancer patients and enabled monitoring restoration of metabolic homeostasis after surgery. This approach was critical to identify the obtained metabolic profile as an upper gastrointestinal cancer‐specific signature independent of malnutrition and inflammation.

EPR Spectra of Exinite, Vitrinite and Inertinite Influence of Microwave Saturation and Sample Evacuation Exinite, vitrinite and inertinite separated from Polish bituminous coal (73.8% C) were investigated by EPR method. [...]

The described research relates to the methodology of block bonded joints, dealing with one of its aspects. The authors made an experimental comparison of samples for the research into impact strength of adhesive joints which differ in the shape and the height of the upper element. The experimental testing was carried out with an impact dropping tool, designed to examine adhesive joints. The maximum energy of the pendulum used in the research was 15 J. The elements of the samples were made of steel S235 or aluminum alloy 2017A. In order to bond the samples, the authors used Epidian 57 epoxide resin with Z1 hardener or the Loctite EA 9450 adhesive. The authors examined samples with upper element rectangular, 3 mm high or disc ones - 3, 5 and 7 mm high. The surface area of the adhesive joints in the tested samples equalled 125 mm2or 250 mm2. In the research, the authors focused on the determination of specifying the optimum height of the application of the load and the height of the sample which has a circular cross-section, at which the plastic deformation will not affect the stress distribution in the joint.The analysis shows that the impact strength of the tested joints depends on the shape of the tested joint (adhesive joint). With the same surface, connections to the upper disk-shaped element are twice as strong as those made according to the ISO 9653 standard.The impact strength of the modified block sample with upper disk-shaped element significantly depends upon the distance from the edge of the impactor to the surface of the adhesive joint. The conducted studies and analyses show that these could be the following values: 5 mm and 2.8 mm.

The research described in this article is part of investigating impact strength in block adhesive joints. The authors checked experimentally the effect, on the test results, of the manner of surface preparation and compressive strength and Young’s modulus of an adhesive used to make the connection. The experimental testing was carried out with an impact pendulum tool, designed to examine adhesive joints. During such testing, the energy used to tear off the upper part of the specimen, that is the energy lost by the dropping device, is the measure of the impact strength of an adhesive connection. The elements of the samples were made with an aluminum alloy 2017A. In the investigations, the authors used non-normative samples whose upper element was a cylinder rather than a cuboid, as advised in the norm. The adhesive joints were made using epoxy adhesive Loctite, named EA 3421, or an adhesive composition Epidian 57 with Z1 hardener. The glued elements were prepared by treating the surfaces for bonding by means of the stream-abrasive processing. The abrasive mediums were three types of materials of different gradation. In addition, two series of samples were prepared using roughening by sandpaper. For control samples, the authors made joints, in which the surfaces for bonding became degreased merely by petroleum ether.

The aim of this article is to present findings concerning the thermo-protective research into ablative materials. The authors analysed the impact of the addition of carbon nanotubes upon the selected ablation properties, i.e. the ablation mass waste, average linear rate of ablation and the backside temperature of the specimens. The performed tests as well as the obtained findings allowed formulating a number of conclusions, which are useful in creating future composites.

The results of conducted by the authors of the article numerical analyzes, indicate the importance of normal stresses, perpendicular to the adhesive joint, during the impact destruction of block adhesive samples. This kind of stresses are responsible for the occurrence of tearing or chipping in a joint. The very significant influence of adhesion in the impact-bonded adhesive joint was the reason for testing this parameter in joints made with adhesives with different Young’s modulus. It was assumed that adhesives differing in stiffness will have different adhesive properties, which should affect the impact strength of the adhesive joints. It was also assumed that the adhesion in the joint can be assessed by analyzing the surfaces of joint damage. Cylindrical butt joints connected with various adhesives were used to carry out the tests, in which they were loaded on tear-off. The nature of tested joints damage was usually cohesive or cohesive-adhesive. The assessment of the nature of joint damage allowed to determine whether they were the result of the loss of cohesion by the adhesive (cohesive damage) or the effect of poor adhesion between the hardened joint and adherends (adhesive damage). The assessment of the nature of the destruction was carried out by three methods: visual, using an optical microscope and using an electron microscope. As a result of the carried out observations, it was found that the visual method is the least useful and not very reliable, especially in the case of transparent or low-contrast in relation to the glued material joints. The use of electron microscope allows to obtain the most reliable results, however, the possible magnification is too large and the assessment of the entire weld fracture is difficult because it does not fit in the field of observation. Observations conducted using optical microscopy at a slight magnification (5-10 times), in most cases allow to determine the nature of the destruction to a satisfactory degree, with limitations such as in the visual method.

The present work investigates the ablative and thermal properties of phenol formaldehyde glass-fabrics laminates filled with mixtures of corundum Al2O3and carbon C powders. The laminates specimens of dimensions 10x25x35 mm were treated with hot combustion gases having a temperature of more than 2800ºC. The carbonization of the thermosetting matrix was observed. Statistical methods for planning experiments were used, and the effect of components on the average rate of ablation, the maximum back side temperature of specimen and the average mass waste under intensive heat flow after 30 s of treatment with hot combustion gases was established. The best thermal protective properties were exhibited by the laminate containing 30% matrix, 25% fibre glass-fabric reinforcement, 9% corundum, and 36% carbon powder.

The research described in this article relates to one of the aspects of methodology of investigating impact loading in block bonded joints. The authors checked experimentally the effect of the thickness of adhesive joints upon impact strength of the connection. The experimental research was completed with preliminary dynamic numerical calculations of the test cases. The experimental testing was conducted with a pendulum hammer designed to examine adhesive joints. The maximum energy of the pendulum used in the investigation equalled 15 J. In order to determine the impact strength of the examined connections, it was used a dependency according to which the energy used to detach the upper element of the sample in such a test, that is the energy lost by the pendulum, is the measure of impact strength of the adhesive joint. The elements of the samples were made of steel S235 or an aluminum alloy 2017A. In order to bond the samples, was used Epidian 57 epoxide resin with Z1 hardener. The models for numerical computations were prepared on the basis of samples used in the experimental research. The prepared models, taking into account the initial and boundary conditions were subjected to dynamic numerical computations by means of the finite element method with the use of the Explicit Dynamics module in the ANSYS programme. The aim of the numerical calculations was to compare the compliance of the results of the experimental and analytical investigations as well as the assessment of the impact of the size of boundary conditions, which were subjected to parametrization, upon the values of occurring stresses during the conducted impact loading simulations.

In the last decade, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), especially superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs), have immensely promoted the advancement of diagnostics and theranostics in the biomedical field. The unique properties of the SPIONs-core and the functional gold (Au)-shell together (SPIONS/Au core/shell or CS) have a wide range of biomedical applications including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), dual modality MRI/computed tomography (CT), photo-induced and magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH), drug delivery, biosensors, and bio-separation. Researchers have made much effort to develop synthesis strategies for size control and surface modifications to achieve the desired properties of these CSs for applications in in vitroand in vivostudies. This review highlights recent developments in the synthesis and biomedical applications of SPIONs/Au CSs, including γ-Fe2O3/Au (maghemite), Fe3O4/Au (magnetite), and MFe2O4/Au (M = divalent metal ions) in the past seven years. More importantly, current trends of SPIONs/Au in relation to the biochemical industry are surveyed. Finally, we outline the developmental needs of SPIONs/Au from the perspective of material synthesis and their novel applications in disease diagnosis and treatment in the near future.

The aim of the study was to compare the internal structure of vitrinite and sporinite obtained from coal from the seam 405. The examinations were performed with the use of infrared spectroscopy in the micro-area (micro-FTIR).

La chirurgia è centrale per il trattamento del cancro al seno. Permette un controllo locoregionale della malattia. L’esplorazione del cavo ascellare è essenziale per il trattamento locale del cancro al seno e ha un valore prognostico. Nonostante l’avvento della biopsia del linfonodo sentinella, la dissecazione ascellare mantiene un posto importante nell’esplorazione ascellare dei tumori al seno. La sua attuazione richiede una conoscenza approfondita dell’anatomia del cavo ascellare, che comprende molti elementi neurovascolari che è importante preservare durante questo tipo di chirurgia. I principi della tecnica chirurgica della dissecazione ascellare saranno qui discussi, così come le sue complicanze e la loro gestione.

La cirugía es el tratamiento principal de los cánceres de mama y permite el control locorregional de la enfermedad. La exploración del hueco o fosa axilar es esencial en el tratamiento local del cáncer de mama y tiene un valor pronóstico. A pesar del desarrollo de la técnica del ganglio centinela, el vaciamiento axilar ocupa todavía un gran espacio en la exploración axilar de los cánceres de mama. Su práctica exige un conocimiento perfecto de la anatomía de la fosa axilar debido a la presencia de numerosos elementos vasculonerviosos que deben preservarse durante la cirugía. Se tratarán aquí los principios de la técnica quirúrgica del vaciamiento axilar, así como sus complicaciones y el tratamiento de éstas.

The article presents a description of the impact block shear test method of adhesive joints. Based on ISO 9653 and literature a pendulum machine was upgraded to make impact strength tests of adhesive joints and validation studies were conducted to determine the parameters of instrumentation and block samples. As a result of the experiments a range of the usable length of the adhesive joint and methods of adhesive joints preparation was selected, and it was determined the adopted method of attachment of the sample in the holder and the pendulum durability. A series of tests on adhesive joints were conducted using samples bonded of adhesive composition Epidian 57 with Z1 hardener for one bondline thickness. Preliminary findings from the research will be used in subsequent, relevant research.

The subject of the research concerned the coal samples from 360/1, 361 and 362/1 seams of the Orzesze beds in the “Pniówek” coal mine. The obtained samples were characterized by low ash content - 2.22- 6.27% of the mass. The chemical composition of the ash indicates the presence of aluminosilicate minerals in the analyzed coal samples - most likely clay minerals, the presence of which has been confirmed in microscopic tests of the petrographic composition of channel samples of coal.

Elements of aircraft that are in direct interaction with the environment are exposed to the destructive effects of weather phenomena and the factors influencing them, as well as local environmental phenomena. One such factor is ultraviolet radiation emitted by the sun. This article presents the results of the influence of solar radiation (UV) on the strength properties of laminates with different types of reinforcement. The composites are susceptible to impact damage; therefore, to investigate the effect of UV radiation on such damaged composite, part of the samples were subjected to impact loads. The composites were made of the epoxy resin Epidian 52 with hardener Z1, and reinforced with glass fabric and carbon fabric. In order to carry out the research, we designed two devices – one for the production of low-energy impact and a second device to expose composite on UV radiation. As a result of studies, it was found that the UV radiation has a negative impact on the aesthetic qualities of the composite as well as the flexural strength of the materials. The decrease in strength of the samples subjected to shock loads and the influence of UV radiation is at a level slightly above 50%.

The properties of a multi-layered composite can be moulded through a selection of type, shape, and the number of layers of reinforcement material as well as powder fillers. Furthermore, the type and share of the matrix as well as the kind of hardeners also exert a significant influence on mechanical properties of composites. We attempted to experimentally establish the influence of the type of hardeners on mechanical properties. The test used Charpy’s hammer, and it was performed in the configuration of impact loading parallel to the edge. We prepared specimens of the materials. The specimens contained 12 layers of different fibre reinforcement: aramid (kevlar) fibre of 230 g/m2 basis weight, glass fibre of 150 g /m2, and carbon fibre of 160 g/m2 basis weight. The base was epoxy resin – Epidian 52, which was cured at room temperature by means of the following curing agents: PAC, TFF or Z-1, manufactured by Z. Ch. Organika-Sarzyna S.A. in Nowa Sarzyna. The experiments proved the tremendous influence of the type of the hardeners on toughness KC. It can be increased even by 25% for glass fibre reinforcement, about 20% for carbon fibre reinforcement and about 10% for aramid fibre reinforcement due to the use of an appropriate type of hardener.

The extremely knowledge-intensive sector of the tool and die industry is forced to reduce costs due to raising international competition. This paper deals with the development and implementation of a knowledge transfer system in order to reduce costs by avoiding mistakes in the tool making process and cutting costs of rework. It constitutes typical weak points concerning shared information and explains a systematic knowledge feedback chain. Additionally it describes the application of supporting knowledge distribution tools, for example mobile tablet apps, and gives examples regarding an improved information flow along the process chain of the tool and die industry.

Abstract: A new group of nonionics, so-called sugar surfactants having a gemini structure, N,N′-bisalkyl-N,N′-bis[(3-gluconylamido)propyl]ethylenediamines [bis(C n GA): C n =n-C8H17, n-C12H25], N,N′-bisdodecyl-N,N′-bis[(3-glucoheptonylamido)propyl]ethylenediamine [bis(C12GH)], and N,N′-bisalkyl-N,N′-bis[(3-lactobionylamido)propyl]ethylenediamines [bis(C n LA): C n =n-C8H17, n-C12H25], were prepared in a convenient four-step procedure from easily accessible reagents. Their structure and purity were confirmed by means of elemental analysis, electrospray ionization MS (ESI-MS), and NMR spectra—1H, 13C, 1H−13C COSY, and distortionless enhancement by polarization transfer. All tested surfactants were practically nontoxic to gram-negative bacteria and fungi, but they inhibited the growth of some gram-positive bacteria. From the results of the Closed Bottle test (OECD Guideline 301D) for biodegradability measurements, it was concluded that the tested aldonamide gemini structures are biodegraded by environmental microorganisms to 16–55% of the initial levels by day 28, the extent depending on both the aldonamide type and the alkyl chain length. Consequently, N,N′-bisalkyl-N,N′-bis[(3-aldonylamido)propyl]ethylenediamines are a surfactant class having low ecotoxicity and fulfilling requirements desired from an ecological standpoint.

Properties of the ZSM-5 zeolite modified with VO2+ions in a one-step exchange reaction in water medium have been investigated. Physicochemical characterization (chemical analysis, XRD, MASn.m.r., e.s.r.) shows that during the preparation the ZSM-5 zeolite structure remains preserved and the vanadyl ions enter the zeolite structure. Sample acidity is of Brönsted and Lewis types and can be reduced by treatment with NaCl solution. Doping with vanadyl ions produces catalysts active in ammoxidation of m-xylene.

Abstract: The interactions between C3H6, AcOH and O2 were investigated on 1.5 % Pd/TsVM catalysts prepared with and without addition of 15 % AcOK. Three states for surface oxygen on the promoted catalyst were distinguished. Two of them are involved in the oxidation of AcOH and C3H6 to CO2 and H2O, whereas the adsorbed species of the third type participates in the formation of allyl acetate. The O/Pd ratios for the promoted catalyst fall in the range from 3 to 4, the nonpromoted system is characterized by an O/Pd value of 0.5. IR-spectral data are used to discuss the reaction scheme for the formation of allyl acetate.

Theories of deterministic chaos have been given much attention in science and apparently have considerable appeal to many other fields. In science education these new ideas have also been given attention, but so far there appear to be no studies available that address the learners' preinstructional point of view. This paper provides an overview of a research project that deals with the educational reconstruction of elementary features of chaos-theory, i.e., with analyzing whether it is worthwhile and possible to introduce certain issues of the theory into science instruction. The approach of 'educational reconstruction' also includes empirical studies of students' learning processes in this field as well as of the construction and evaluation of pilot instructional modules. The model of educational reconstruction is outlined. The focus of the paper is an exploratory study with Grade 10 students on the teaching and learning of elementary aspects of limited predictability.

Abstract: The studies presented here comprise a project on the educational significance of chaos theory. Or to put it in a nutshell, we attempt to analyse critically whether the core ideas of chaos theory (as, for instance, limited predictability of chaotic systems despite deterministic laws governing them) are worth teaching and learning and furthermore we follow up the question of accessibility of these ideas for students. Subject matter structure clarification (i.e., construction of the mentioned key ideas) analyses of educational significance on the basis of widely accepted aims of teaching science, empirical studies on students' learning processes, and finally, development and evaluation of pilot instructional modules are closely interrelated. To put it into our terminology, the studies are embedded in a Model of Educational Reconstruction which may be seen as an approach to curriculum development that, on the one hand, takes into account the major insights provided by the constructivist view of the past two decades resting, on the other hand, on the tradition of German pedagogical theories on framing educational issues.

The dehydroxylation of 3610 cm−1 OH groups in HZSM-5 zeolite and in two Ni and Mo modified catalysts containing the same zeolite has been studied at 673 K. The presence of water vapor is a necessary condition of dehydroxylation, the extent of which depends on the number and duration of breaks consisting in cooling to room temperature and reheating to 673 K with evacuation.