bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the formation and reactivity of multinuclear silsesquioxane metal complexes
Authors: Hanssen Robbie Willem Johan Maria
Published: July 2018

A new family of complexes, based on a general motif of four metal atoms in a μ3-oxygen surrounding has been synthesized and the reactivity was tested. Depending on the ligands on the outer (reactive) metal atoms, the reactivity ranges from very reactive towards protic and coordinating substances to completely unreactive. Based on the reaction mechanism, new heterobimetallic complexes could be synthesized, although caution should be taken regarding the ‘hardness’ of the metals. Selected complexes were tested in various catalytic reactions and were found to be inactive (Diels-Alder), active but unsuitable (lactide polymerization), or very active (ethene polymerization). Integrating the synthetic knowledge from this thesis into the relevant new developments in silsesquioxane chemistry could lead to the introduction of new and active catalysts for Lewis-acid based catalysis.
The Lived Experiences of Female Leaders in Two University Settings: Perceived Supports, Barriers, and Challenges
Authors: Jakubiec Brittany Ashley Eugenia
Published: July 2018

The dearth of women in higher education both as full professors and senior administrators is alarming, and the factors impeding their entrance and limiting their advancement are relatively unknown. The purpose of this research was to document the lived experiences of women leaders who were full professors or who held senior leadership positions in two universities in Atlantic Canada. I researched the perceived supports, challenges, and barriers that women leaders faced in their professional lives, as well as the influence of gender in their leadership positions. I approached the research from a social constructivism standpoint and utilized a phenomenological research design. I used standpoint theory to analyze the data. Data sources included two interviews with each participant and a seven-day leadership journal from each participant. Women noted multiple supports, challenges, and barriers in their personal and professional lives. Supports include husbands, mentors, workshops, and networking. Challenges and barriers included children, colleagues, work/life conflicts, invisibility, and a lack of leadership development programs. Findings indicated that gender equality has not been achieved in the postsecondary setting, and gendered expectations, sexism, and discrimination remain strong barriers for women. Applying standpoint theory, the social location of the participants impacted their lives, opinions, and views of leadership in postsecondary institutions. Their lived realities and experiences changed over time as the academic and institutional culture changed over time, and, as such, their views about women and leadership were altered. Implications of this work are that university leaders need to create supports for women and make them easily accessible, and create a women-friendly environment that will increase the ease with which women can enter, advance, and succeed in the institution.
PRELIMINARY STUDY PROPERTI AKUIFER TERHADAP SIMULASI NUMERIK PENURUNAN MUKA AIRTANAH DENGAN METODE BEDA HINGGA AKIBAT PEMASANGAN INCLINED DRAIN HOLE PADA LOW WALL PIT E BMO 2 PT. BC
Authors: Alvando Pascalia Vinca , Darul Achmad , Irawan Dasapta Erwin
Published: July 2018

Airtanah merupakan salah satu faktor penting yang berkontribusi terhadap ketidakstabilan lereng, air akan mengisi pori tanah sehingga tekanan air pori meningkat. Pada tahun 2009 di Pit E, PT. BC khususnya low wall pernah terjadi longsor, tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui besar penurunan muka airtanah (drawdown) serta melakukan simulasi dalam waktu 8 tahun kedepan setelah upaya dewatering pada tahun 2016 dengan menggunakan sistem drain hole yang dipasang secara inclined. Model konseptual daerah penelitian dibangun dengan data pengamatan muka airtanah mula-mula, curah hujan, topografi dan properti hidrogeologi yang ditentukan berdasarkan asumsi teoriritis. Simulasi numerik menggunakan metode beda hingga dilakukan dalam dua skenario yaitu pada tiga IDH aktif dan penambahan tiga IDH di luar model pada akuifer terkekang dengan variasi kedalaman 50 m dan 80 m. Drawdown hasil simulasi kemudian dikalibrasi dengan perhitungan metode Theis. Hasil studi menunjukan nilai drawdown dari perhitungan Theis lebih kecil dari hasil simulasi numerik. Outflow pada pemodelan juga menghasilkan nilai yang lebih besar dari pengamatan di lapangan. Parameter adjustment berupa nilai konduktivitas hidraulik kemudian dilakukan untuk mengetahui pengaruhnya terhadap besar drawdown. Hasilnya menunjukan bahwa nilai konduktivitas hidraulik memiliki pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap perubahan besar drawdown. (Pre-print)Kata kunci: drawdown, confined aquifer, inclined drain hole, dewatering
Rocks Are Just Bad Souls: Anne Conway's Privation Account of Matter
Authors: Perry Lauren
Published: July 2018

The Cambridge Platonist Anne Conway, in her only treatise, The Principles of the Most Ancient and Modern Philosophy, articulates a complex metaphysical system, partly formed as an alternative to the mechanistic philosophy of Descartes and Hobbes. Objecting to Descartes’ dualism, Conway defends a monistic and vitalistic account of matter. However, Conway’s account of matter is notoriously difficult to understand. One reason for this is that Conway does not make her aims in the Principles explicit. Without a precise account of Conway’s aims, it is difficult to evaluate her account of matter. I argue that Conway, motivated by primarily religious aims, defends a privation account of matter. Conway’s concern is making her ontology consistent with the Christian doctrine of universal salvation. The paper concludes by considering how Conway defends her account of matter from mechanist objections.
Probing the short-timescale evolution of quasi-periodic oscillations
Authors: van den Eijnden Jakob
Published: July 2018

The X-ray emission of black hole X-ray binaries (BHXRBs) often shows quasi- periodic oscillations (QPOs), that originate from the close proximity of the black hole. As such, QPOs trace the behaviour of the accreted material in the most extreme gravitational environments. However, the physical origin of the QPO is still the subject of debate: it could either be geometric, arising from systematic changes in the accretion geometry, or intrinsic, resulting from modulations in intrinsic properties of the accretion flow. In this thesis, I present the results of two novel approaches to understanding the QPO origin, both investigating the observed lag between the QPO signal in different energy bands. After intro- ducing the timing properties of black holes, I first discuss the short-timescale evolution of the QPO lag in the BHXRB GRS 1915+105. Unexpectedly, I find that this lag increases systematically over 5–10 QPO cycles. Simultaneously, the QPO amplitude rises and falls in an enveloping fashion, dubbed coherent intervals. To interpret this result, I formulate a geometric toy model for the QPO: differential vertical precession of the inner accretion flow. In addition, I present a systematic analysis of the QPO lag in a sample of fifteen BHXRBs. I find that the lag associated with the Type-C QPO significantly depends on the source inclination, strongly suggesting a geometric QPO origin. The found inclination dependence is consistent with Lense-Thirring precession as the QPO origin, taking into account dominant relativistic effects. Finally, I also show prilimary results of a coherent-interval resolved analysis of the QPO in GRS 1915+105, which provides a promising new handle on the origin of QPOs.
Temporoparietal and Infratemporal fossa abscess as a complication of dental extraction – a rare and potentially lethal condition
Authors: Chatterji Probal , Goyal Isha
Published: July 2018

Abscesses of the infratemporal fossa are rare in clinical practice. Usually it occurs as a complication of odontogenic infections, dental extraction, sinusitis and trauma. The initial signs & symptoms of this condition may be very non-specific in nature. If treatment is delayed, the abscess may extend superiorly to involve the temporoparietal region and only then it can be appreciated clinically. A middle aged male patient presented to us with the complaint of restricted mouth opening along with extensive swelling of the temporoparietal region. There was past history of tooth extraction. MRI scan confirmed it to be a case of temporoparietal & infratemporal fossa abscess with features of osteomyelitis of the ramus and adjacent body of the mandible on the right side. The patient was started on parenteral antibiotics and subsequently the abscess was drained by combined external and intraoral approach. The patient had an uneventful recovery. A thorough review of the literature has been done in relation to this condition and its management. A delay in diagnosis of this condition can lead to a number of potentially lethal complications. CT scan and MRI scan are the best modalities for confirming the diagnosis in suspected cases. Prompt drainage of the abscesses under antibiotic cover is the cornerstone of management. Isolated abscess of the infratemporal fossa may be drained intraorally or endoscopically by trans-maxillary approach. However if the temporoparietal region is also involved, a combined approach with a separate incision over the temporal region is indicated.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.9(4) 2018 57-60
Karakter Peduli Lingkungan Siswa SMP ditinjau dari Tingkatan Kelas dan Gender
Authors: Lelatobur Lovely Ezverenzha , Situmorang Risya Pramana , Krave Agna Sulis
Published: July 2018

Abstrak

Penelitian survei dengan metode kuantitatif deskriptif ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui karakter peduli lingkungan siswa SMP ditinjau dari tingkatan kelas dan untuk mengetahui hubungan antara gender dan tingkatan kelas terhadap karakter peduli lingkungan siswa SMP. Siswa pada tingkatan kelas VII dan IX menunjukkan karakter peduli lingkungan yang lebih baik dibandingkan kelas VIII berdasarkan dari kategori penilaian pada instrumen New Ecological Paradigm. Untuk kategori Sangat Baik kelas VII dan IX lebih tinggi (22.22% dan 27.27%) sedangkan kategori Tidak Baik, kelas VII dan IX lebih rendah dari kelas VIII (5.56%, 9.09%, 9.52%). Hubungan gender dan tingkatan kelas dengan uji Pearson diperoleh satu hasil korelasi yang signifikan yaitu antara perempuan kelas VIII dengan perempuan kelas IX (r =0.798; Sig.0.017 < 0.05). Berdasarkan hasil penelitian disimpulkan tingkatan kelas lebih berhubungan dengan karakter peduli lingkungan siswa daripada faktor gender, ditunjukkan dari aktivitas siswa yang tidak memandang gender dalam menjaga keasrian lingkungan sekolahnya.

Kata kunci: karakter peduli lingkungan, New Ecological Paradigm, tingkatan kelas, gender

 

ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OF JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS IN TERMS OF GRADE AND GENDER

 Abstract

This survey research by quantitative descriptive method was conducted with purpose to find out the environmental awareness of junior high school students in terms of grade and also to find out the correlation between gender and grade for students attitude towards environments. The analysis and interpretation data of New Echogical Paradigm instrument found that the students on 7th and 9th grade represent the best attitude towards environments more than 8th grade. For Very Good category 7th and 9th grade have higher percentage (22.22% and 27.27%), while Not Good category, 7th and 9th grade are lower than 8th grade (5.56%, 9.09%, 9.52%). The correlation between grade and gender tested by Pearson test proved that it has significant correlation between female students on 8th and 9th grade (r =0.798; Sig.0.017 < 0.05). Based on result, we can concluded that the grade level is more related than gender for students’ environmental awareness, showed by students maintaining school sanitation activity.

Keywords: environmental awareness, new ecological paradigm, grade level, gender
Analisis Penerapan AoE dan LVM sebagai Teknologi Berbagi Media Penyimpanan pada Multi Server
Authors: Hartawan I Nyoman Buda , Iswara Ida Bagus Ary Indra
Published: July 2018

File server merupakan salah satu jenis server yang melayani permintaan penyimpanan file. Sebagai sebuah file server dibutuhkan kapasitas media penyimpanan yang besar dan mampu dilakukan perluasan kapasitas kapan saja dibutuhkan. Hal ini menyebabkan dibutuhkan sebuah metode yang mampu mengelola hard disk pada server secara fleksibel. Pada penelitian ini dilakukan analisis pengelolaan media penyimpananmenggunakan metode AoE dan LVM. AoE merupakan salah satu metode yang mampu melakukan sharing block devices hard disk pada jaringan. Sedangkan LVM merupakan pengelolaan hard disk yang memungkinkanpenggabungan beberapa hard disk pada 1 komputer untuk memperoleh kapasitas yang lebih besar. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pengelolaan media penyimpanan pada server dengan menggunakan metode AoE dan LVMmemiliki kecepatan transfer data 11.05091 MB/s dari transfer rate maksimum 11.5MB/s.
Optimasi Penjadwalan Seminar dan Sidang Tugas Akhir pada Sistem Informasi Tugas Akhir di STMIK STIKOM Indonesia
Authors: Budayasa I Putu Gede , Dirgayusari Ayu Manik
Published: July 2018

Sistem pengelolaan tugas akhir yang dijalankan pada STMIK STIKOM Indonesia saat ini memiliki kelemahan khususnya dari segi efisiensi, mulai dari persetujuan usulan topik, penentuan dosen pembimbing dan penguji, serta penyusunan jadwal seminar dan sidang tugas akhir memerlukan waktu relatif lama. Rata-rata waktu penyusunan jadwal dipengaruhi faktor-faktor seperti ketersediaan ruangan, jadwal mengajar dan shift kerja dosen. Pihak yang bertanggungjawab dalam penyusunan ini perlu melakukan analisa dengan teliti yang cukup memakan waktu sehingga jadwal yang disusun tidak berjalan paralel dengan jadwal mengajar dosen dan penggunaan ruangan untuk perkuliahan, serta tidak menimbulkan penundaan salah satu aktivitas setelah jadwal tersebut diumumkan. Solusi yang diusulkan adalah membangun sebuah sistem informasi yang dapat mengakomodir seluruh proses dalam pengelolaan tugas akhir di STMIK STIKOM Indonesia.
Implementasi Responsive E-learning Berbasis MOODLE Untuk Menunjang Kegiatan Pembelajaran di STMIK STIKOM Indonesia
Authors: Pradnyana Gede Aditra , Pradnyana I Made Ardwi
Published: July 2018

STMIK STIKOM Indonesia (STIKI) merupakan perguruan tinggi swasta yang mempunyai sarana prasarana di bidang teknologi informasi yang sangat memadai. Proses pembelajaran yang selama ini berjalan dirasa memiliki kelemahan, diantaranya terbatasnya waktu tatap muka didalam kelas sehingga materi kuliah tidak dapat diulang atau disampaikan secara tuntas, sulitnya mencari jam pengganti apabila dosen berhalangan hadir hingga tidak fokusnya mahasiswa dalam proses pembelajaran didalam kelas. Berdasarkan kelemahantersebut, penulis mengusulkan sistem e-learning untuk melengkapi proses pembelajaran yang sedang berjalan. Kegiatan penelitian dimulai dengan melakukan pendefinisian masalah yang ingin diselesaikan, melakukan pengumpulan data melalui metode observasi dan kepustakaan, analisis data sebagai dasar dalam konfigurasi LMS MOODLE. Hasil pengujian dengan metode black box menunjukkan bahwa sistem e-learning STIKI telah berjalan dengan baik dan sesuai dengan perancangan yang telah ditetapkan. Pengukuran tingkat kenyamanan pengguna dilakukan dengan memberikan kuisioner COLLES. Dari analisa hasil kuesioner, diperoleh kesimpulan bahwa secara umum tingkat kenyamanan mahasiswa dalam menggunakan sistem e-learning yang dibangun cukup tinggi.
Media Pembelajaran Mikrokontroler dan Robotika Portable dengan GPIO Ports Menggunakan Kontrol Mini Komputer Raspberry Pi 2
Authors: Ekayana Anak Agung Gde
Published: July 2018

Pembelajaran pada tahap orientasi pengajaran akan sangat membantu keefektifan proses pembelajaran dan penyampaian pesan dan isi pelajaran pada saat itu, sehingga yang menjadi target dari pembelajaran bisa tercapai secara maksimal. Rancang bangun media pembelajaran mikrokontroler  dan robotika menggunakan mini komputer raspberry pi 2 sebagai pemrosesan data dan komponen elektronika yang telah disusun berupa modul sebagai aplikasi mikrokontroler dan robotika. Subjek  penelitian terdiri dari ahli media dan para partisipan uji coba. Hasil penelitian keseluruhan menunjukan media pembelajaran mikrokontroler dan robotika dibangun menggunakan raspberry pi 2, komponen elektronika berupa (motor, sensor, led, seven segment, lcd, dot matrik, buzzer, relay), semua bagian disatukan di atas lembaran triplek dan dikencangkan menggunakan sekrup, sehingga saat digunakan menjadi lebih praktis dan efektif dan pengimplementasi dari media pembelajaran ini dalam proses perkuliahan menggunakan strategi kelompok, dimaksudkan agar mahasiswa mampu berkolaborasi dengan kelompoknya untuk dapat menggunakan dan memecahkan masalah dengan menggunakan media pembelajaran.
Data Mining Untuk Pemilihan Piranti Snorkeling Dengan Metode Fuzzy C-Means Clustering
Authors: Aditama Putu Wirayudi , Susila I Putu Nata , Kusuma I Wayan Wijaya
Published: July 2018

Snorkeling adalah salah satu hobu yang sangat digemari saat ini. Snorkeling sering di lakukan untuk refreshing sambil menyegarkan pikiran setelah berkutat dengan aktifitas dan pekerjaan yang menguras pikiran. Piranti atau (peralatan) snorkeling yang paling utama terdiri dari 4 alat yaitu, masker selam, baju selam, snorkel dan kaki katak atau sirip selam. Dalam penerapanya banyak kendala yang dihadapi para penyelam terutama dalam hal memilih piranti masih bersifat manual yaitu para penyelam hanya mendapat informasi dari instruktur snorkeling yang berada di kawasan snorkeling. Keadaan tersebut sudah pasti membuat proses pemilihan menjadi tidak efesien karena keterbatasan informasi yang bisa didapat sehingga perlunya dibuatkan sebuah sistem pendukung keputusan. Fuzzy C-means Clustering (FCM) adalah suatu teknik pengelompokan data yang mana keberadaan tiap-tiap titik dalam suatu cluster ditentukan oleh derajat keanggotaan. Pada penelitian ini akan digunakan metode perhitungan FCM untuk menentukan piranti yang tepat untuk direkomendasikan kepada User. Dengan adanya sistem pendukung keputusan dapat membantu user dalam memilih piranti yang sesuai dengan kriteria yang diinginkanya.
Mídias digitais e as tecnologias da sobrevivência
Authors: Monteiro Gilson Vieira
Published: July 2018

Este artigo foi publicado inicialmente no livro Jornalismo para dispositivos móveis: produção, distribuição e consumo, organizado por João Canavilhas e Ivan Satuf, em Portugal, pela Livros Labcom Books, em 2015, sob o título “Ecossistemas comunicacionais: os dispositivos móveis como extensão do corpo humano”. O que em Portugal se chama “dispositivos móveis”, em Manaus, no Grupo de Pesquisa em Ciências da Comunicação, Informação, Design e Artes (Interfaces) denominamos Mídias Digitais. Utilizamos os ecossistemas comunicacionais, conceito surgido a partir dos “ecossistemas comunicativos”, resultados de um processo enativo de evolução das teorias, que reforça a minha tese de que tecnologias, por mais modernas que as sejam, resultam de processos enativos, e são, portanto, extensões do corpo. E, mais ainda: extensões do corpo para garantir a sobrevivência. Eis que me veio a ideia de aprimorar o artigo anterior e chamá-lo de “Mídias Digitais e as tecnologias da sobrevivência”.Palavras-chave: Mídias Digitais. Ecossistemas comunicacionais. Comunicação e complexidade.
Comunicação e Revelação
Authors: Filho Ciro Marcondes
Published: July 2018

O ensaio revisita os três momentos da existência humana descritos por Emmanuel Levinas, centrando sua atenção no terceiro, a superação da hipóstase em direção ao devir, ao “ser para o outro”. Seu conceito de comunicação, contudo, vinculado à sua proposta talmúdica, propõe uma submissão ao outro, diferenciando-se aí da proposta da Nova Teoria. Nesse caso, três caminhos seguem divergentes do nosso: Levinas propõe um olhar ético para a comunicação enquanto nós buscamos o fenomenológico; ele atrela a comunicabilidade à presença física do outro, seu rosto, seu olhar, enquanto nós expandimos a comunicabilidade para obras humanas e sua força expressiva; finalmente, o acontecimento, em Levinas, é obra do acaso, do encontro fortuito entre mim e a alteridade, enquanto, para nós, o acontecimento comunicacional supõe um projeto, uma ação dirigida a um fim, em suma, uma ação ativa, não apenas reativa.Palavras-chaves: Comunicação. Devir. Alteridade. Revelação. Fenomenologia. Acontecimento. Projeto.
Achievement emotions, epistemic curiosity, and graded performance of undergraduate students in English preparatory classes
Authors: Elmalı Özsaray Alev , Eren Altay
Published: July 2018

The aim of the study was to examine the relationships between achievement emotions, epistemic curiosity, and graded performance regarding English courses of undergraduate students in English preparatory classes. Exploratory correlational design was adopted in the study. A total of 475 undergraduate students in English preparatory classes voluntarily participated in the study. The findings showed that graded performance regarding English courses was significantly and positively predicted by both curiosity as a feeling of deprivation and curiosity as a feeling of interest. The findings also showed that graded performance regarding English courses was significantly, yet negatively predicted by anxiety and boredom.
Integrating robotics into a minimally invasive transforaminal interbody fusion workflow
Authors: Snyder Laura A.
Published: July 2018

Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS TLIF) is a well-accepted procedure with good outcomes. Robotics has the potential to augment these outcomes. This video demonstrates and discusses how surgeons can implement the use of a robotic device in an MIS TLIF workflow. The planning software and robotic arm guidance allow the surgeon to use intraoperative CT to guide the placement of pedicle screws in an MIS TLIF with optimal trajectory and decreased radiation. As robotic technology continues to improve, developing safe workflows that integrate robotics with currently well-established techniques should improve patient outcomes.

The video can be found here: https://youtu.be/rJWOa6XVLW0.
Robot-assisted resection of pre-sacral schwannoma
Authors: Jun Changhan , Sukumaran Madhav , Wolinsky Jean-Paul
Published: July 2018

Resection of a giant pre-sacral schwannoma originating from the right S2 nerve in a 22-year-old woman illustrates the potential for robotic surgery. The da Vinci Robot Surgical System facilitates visualization deep in the pelvis and allows for bimanual wristed instrument control to dissect the tumor from surrounding sensitive structures. Neurostimulation to identify critical nerves is possible and complete resection of the tumor can be achieved. There were no complications, she remained neurologically intact, the estimated blood loss was less than 75 ml, the total hospital stay was 3 days, and she returned to work within 2 weeks of her operation. In select patients, robot-assisted surgery may have advantages.

The video can be found here: https://youtu.be/SYjUA-WcyGI.
Experimental Validation of a Novel Auto-Tuning Method for a Fractional Order PI Controller on an UR10 Robot
Authors: Muresan Cristina I. , Copot Cosmin , Birs Isabela , De Keyser Robin , Vanlanduit Steve , Ionescu Clara M.
Published: July 2018

Classical fractional order controller tuning techniques usually consider the frequency domain specifications (phase margin, gain crossover frequency, iso-damping) and are based on knowledge of a process model, as well as solving a system of nonlinear equations to determine the controller parameters. In this paper, a novel auto-tuning method is used to tune a fractional order PI controller. The advantages of the proposed auto-tuning method are two-fold: There is no need for a process model, neither to solve the system of nonlinear equations. The tuning is based on defining a forbidden region in the Nyquist plane using the phase margin requirement and determining the parameters of the fractional order controller such that the loop frequency response remains out of the forbidden region. Additionally, the final controller parameters are those that minimize the difference between the slope of the loop frequency response and the slope of the forbidden region border, to ensure the iso-damping property. To validate the proposed method, a case study has been used consisting of a pick and place movement of an UR10 robot. The experimental results, considering two different robot configurations, demonstrate that the designed fractional order PI controller is indeed robust.
A Regional Topic Model Using Hybrid Stochastic Variational Gibbs Sampling for Real-Time Video Mining
Authors: Tang Lin , Liu Lin , Gan Jianhou
Published: July 2018

The events location and real-time computational performance of crowd scenes continuously challenge the field of video mining. In this paper, we address these two problems based on a regional topic model. In the process of video topic modeling, region topic model can simultaneously cluster motion words of video into motion topics, and the locations of motion into motion regions, where each motion topic associates with its region. Meanwhile, a hybrid stochastic variational Gibbs sampling algorithm is developed for inference of our region topic model, which has the ability of inferring in real time with massive video stream dataset. We evaluate our method on simulate and real datasets. The comparison with the Gibbs sampling algorithm shows the superiorities of proposed model and its online inference algorithm in terms of anomaly detection.
Mathematical Simulations and Analyses of Proportional Electro-Hydraulic Brakes and Anti-Lock Braking Systems in Motorcycles
Authors: Chen Che-Pin , Chiang Mao-Hsiung
Published: July 2018

In the motorcycle industry, the safety of motorcycles operating at high speeds has received increasing attention. If a motorcycle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), it can automatically adjust the size of the brake force to prevent the wheels from locking and achieve an optimal braking effect, ensuring operation stability. In an ABS, the brake force is controlled by an electro-hydraulic brake (EHB). The control valve inside the EHB was replaced with a proportional valve in this study, which differed from the general use of a solenoid valve. The purpose for this change was to precisely control the brake force and prevent hydraulic pressure oscillating in the piping. This study employed MATLAB/Simulink and block diagrams to establish a complete motorcycle ABS simulation model, including a proportional electro-hydraulic brake (PEHB), motorcycle motion, tire, and controller models. In an analysis of ABS simulation results, when traveling on different road surfaces, the PEHB could effectively reduce braking distance and solve the problem of hydraulic pressure oscillation during braking. The research demonstrated that this proportional pressure control valve can substitute the general solenoid valve in commercial braking systems. This can assist the ABS in achieving more precise slip control and improved motorcycle safety.
A Discussion on Mehlich-3 Phosphorus Extraction from the Perspective of Governing Chemical Reactions and Phases: Impact of Soil pH
Authors: Penn Chad J. , Rutter E. Bryan , Arnall D. Brian , Camberato James , Williams Mark , Watkins Patrick
Published: July 2018

Mehlich-3 (M3) is one of the most common agronomic and environmental phosphorus (P) extractants for determining P fertilizer requirements and the potential for non-point source pollution. Understanding how soil properties impact M3 extractability can improve our ability to properly use this soil test. The objectives of this study were to investigate the impact of soil pH on P extractability by M3 and water in different soils containing equal total P, and to ascertain information about mechanisms of M3-P extraction. Soil pH at four field sites was previously adjusted to a range of approximately 4.5–7.5. Soils (Grant, Dale, Teller, Easpur) were characterized, and P was extracted with M3 and water. Extraction of Mehlich-3 P decreased 40% to 55% with increasing pH, which was potentially due to changing P forms, partial neutralization of extractant pH, and consumption of extractant fluoride (F−) by non P-containing calcium (Ca) minerals. Water-soluble P (WSP) increased with increasing pH up to pH 6–7. Mehlich-3 P and WSP were not positively correlated except for one soil type. Mehlich-3 P is best utilized with WSP as indicators of quantity and intensity, respectively. Use of M3-P alone at pH < 5.5 may overestimate solubility. Further research should examine the suitability of M3-P at pH > 7.
Characterization of Root and Shoot Traits in Wheat Cultivars with Putative Differences in Root System Size
Authors: Figueroa-Bustos Victoria , Palta Jairo A. , Chen Yinglong , Siddique Kadambot H.M.
Published: July 2018

Root system size is a key trait for improving water and nitrogen uptake efficiency in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). This study aimed (i) to characterize the root system and shoot traits of five wheat cultivars with apparent differences in root system size; (ii) to evaluate whether the apparent differences in root system size observed at early vegetative stages in a previous semi-hydroponic phenotyping experiment are reflected at later phenological stages in plants grown in soil using large rhizoboxes. The five wheat cultivars were grown in a glasshouse in rhizoboxes filled to 1.0 m with field soil. Phenology and shoot traits were measured and root growth and proliferation were mapped to quantify root length density (RLD), root length per plant, root biomass and specific root length (SRL). Wheat cultivars with large root systems had greater root length, more root biomass and thicker roots, particularly in the top 40 cm, than those with small root systems. Cultivars that reached anthesis later had larger root system sizes than those that reached anthesis earlier. Later anthesis allowed more time for root growth and proliferation. Cultivars with large root systems had 25% more leaf area and biomass than those with small root systems, which presumably reflects high canopy photosynthesis to supply the demand for carbon assimilates to roots. Wheat cultivars with contrasting root system sizes at the onset of tillering (Z2.1) in a semi-hydroponic phenotyping system maintained their size ranking at booting (Z4.5) when grown in soil. Phenology, particularly time to anthesis, was associated with root system size.
N,S Co-Doped Carbon Nanofibers Derived from Bacterial Cellulose/Poly(Methylene blue) Hybrids: Efficient Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Liu Jing , Ji Yi-Gang , Qiao Bin , Zhao Fengqi , Gao Hongxu , Chen Pei , An Zhongwei , Chen Xinbing , Chen Yu
Published: July 2018

Exploring inexpensive and highly efficient electrocatalyst to decrease the overpotential of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is one of the key issues for the commercialization of energy conversion and storage devices. Heteroatom-doped carbon materials have attracted increasing attention as promising electrocatalysts. Herein, we prepared a highly active electrocatalyst, nitrogen, sulfur co-doped carbon nanofibers (N/S-CNF), via in situ chemical oxidative polymerization of methylene blue on the bacterial cellulose nanofibers, followed by carbonization process. It was found that the type of nitrogen/sulfur source, methylene blue and poly(methylene blue), has significantly influence on the catalytic activity of the resultant carbon nanofibers. Benefiting from the porous structure and high surface area (729 m2/g) which favors mass transfer and exposing of active N and S atoms, the N/S-CNF displays high catalytic activity for the ORR in alkaline media with a half-wave potential of about 0.80 V, and better stability and stronger methanol tolerance than that of 20 wt % Pt/C, indicating great potential application in the field of alkaline fuel cell.
Measurement of Poly(ADP-ribose) Level with Enhanced Slot Blot Assay with Crosslinking
Authors: Kudo Yuko , Sasaki Yuka , Onodera Takae , Hashimoto Jun , Nozaki Tadashige , Tamura Kenji , Watanabe Masatoshi , Masutani Mitsuko
Published: July 2018

Poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) formation is catalyzed by poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) family proteins in nuclei as well as in cytosols. The anti-PAR antibodies that specifically detect PAR are useful for the quantitative measurement of PAR in cells, in tissue, and in the body. In clinical trials of PARP inhibitors, a pharmacodynamic (PD) assay for the measurement of PARP activity inhibition in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with dot-blot assay or an ELISA assay using anti-PAR antibodies have been used. In these assays, ex vivo PARP activity and its inhibition assay have been used. For a PD assay to assess the efficacy of the treatment, the measurement of PARP activity inhibition in tumor tissues/cells has been recommended. A dot or slot blot assay may also be suitable for the measurement of such crude tissue samples. Here, we investigate the optimum conditions for a dot/slot blot assay of an ex vivo PARP activity assay by utilizing physical and chemical crosslinking methods. Using 10H monoclonal antibody to PAR, we show that use of a nylon membrane and UV crosslink at 254 nm can stably enhance the detection level of PAR. However, the limitation of this assay is that the size of PAR detectable using the 10H antibody must be around 20 ADP-ribose residues, since the antibody cannot bind PAR of lower size.
Anti-Aging Effects of Monomethylsilanetriol and Maltodextrin-Stabilized Orthosilicic Acid on Nails, Skin and Hair
Authors: Ferreira Anderson Oliveira , Freire Érika Santos , Polonini Hudson Caetano , Da Silva Paulo José Lopes Cândido , Brandão Marcos Antônio Fernandes , Raposo Nádia Rezende Barbosa
Published: July 2018

Chemical form of silicon determines its absorption and bioavailability: particulate and polymerized forms exhibit minimal oral bioavailability, while monomers (maltodextrin-stabilized orthosilicic acid, M-OSA) and organic compounds (monomethylsilanetriol, MMST) may hypothetically be highly absorbed. This study aimed to investigate the dermatological effects of oral ingestion of silicon, either solid (M-OSA–SiliciuMax® Powder) or liquid (MMST, SiliciuMax® Liquid) on the skin, hair and nails of healthy volunteers, through a clinical trial (Registry number 2,032,724. Full protocol at Plataforma Brasil website). Patients were randomized to receive 5 mg of elemental Si, either M-OSA or MMST (group 1 and 2, n = 17 each) or placebo (group 3, n = 17) twice a day for 150 days. Clinical and patients’ subjective evaluations were conducted. Multispectral face imaging and hair mineral analysis were also performed. Use of M-OSA and MMST provided significant (p < 0.05) betterment of facial wrinkles and UV spots. Changes were also observed at the end of the study in skin texture and length of eyelashes. Hair aluminum levels decrease with the treatments. Self-reported questionnaire indicated good satisfaction with both M-OSA and MMST. Continuous use of both M-OSA and MMST can provide improvements on skin parameters, as well as act as a detox agent for aluminum.
Intrinsic Run-Time Row Hammer PUFs: Leveraging the Row Hammer Effect for Run-Time Cryptography and Improved Security †
Authors: Anagnostopoulos Nikolaos Athanasios , Arul Tolga , Fan Yufan , Hatzfeld Christian , Schaller André , Xiong Wenjie , Jain Manishkumar , Saleem Muhammad Umair , Lotichius Jan , Gabmeyer Sebastian , Szefer Jakub , Katzenbeisser Stefan
Published: July 2018

Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs) based on the retention times of the cells of a Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) can be utilised for the implementation of cost-efficient and lightweight cryptographic protocols. However, as recent work has demonstrated, the times needed in order to generate their responses may prohibit their widespread usage. To address this issue, the Row Hammer PUF has been proposed by Schaller et al., which leverages the row hammer effect in DRAM modules to reduce the retention times of their cells and, therefore, significantly speed up the generation times for the responses of PUFs based on these retention times. In this work, we extend the work of Schaller et al. by presenting a run-time accessible implementation of this PUF and by further reducing the time required for the generation of its responses. Additionally, we also provide a more thorough investigation of the effects of temperature variations on the Row Hammer PUF and briefly discuss potential statistical relationships between the cells used to implement it. As our results prove, the Row Hammer PUF could potentially provide an adequate level of security for Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) devices, if its dependency on temperature is mitigated, and, may therefore, be commercially adopted in the near future.
Thermal Conductivity of an AZ31 Sheet after Accumulative Roll Bonding
Authors: Trojanová Zuzanka , Halmešová Kristýna , Drozd Zdeněk , Šíma Vladimír , Lukáč Pavel , Džugan Ján , Minárik Peter
Published: July 2018

Accumulative roll bonding (ARB) is one of the methods of severe plastic deformation which is relevant for industrial production of sheets. While mechanical properties of several magnesium alloys subjected to the ARB process have been studied, the physical properties have been reported only for some magnesium alloys. These properties are influenced by the texture developed during the ARB process and the temperature load. In the presented contribution, we studied thermal conductivity of an AZ31 magnesium alloy after one and two passes through the rolling mill. Thermal diffusivity was measured with the laser-flash method in the temperature range between 20 and 350 °C. Thermal conductivity depends on the number of rolling passes. The microstructure and texture of sheets are significant factors influencing thermal properties.
Foreign-Trained Dentists in the United States: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Kellesarian Sergio Varela
Published: July 2018

The aim of the present study is to review the licensing process and challenges faced by foreign-trained dentists in United States (U.S.), and how incorporating foreign-trained dentists in the dental workforce in the U.S. impacts the population’s dental care. Foreign-trained dentists must complete additional training in a Commission of Dental Accreditation recognized program offered by a U.S. dental school in order to be eligible for licensing. Foreign-trained dentists interested in seeking employment in the U.S. face numerous challenges, including stringent admission processes, high tuition costs, immigration barriers and cultural differences. Opening the U.S. dental profession to foreign-trained dentists provides several advantages, such as increasing the diversity of dentists in the U.S., expanding access to underrepresented communities, and enhancing the expertise of the profession. Foreign-trained dentists are an important resource for a U.S. government seeking to build the human capital base and make the most of global trade opportunities through a “brain gain”. Increasing the diversity in the dental profession to match the general U.S. population might improve access to dental care for minorities and poor Americans, reducing disparities in dental care.
Locating the Sets of Exceptional Points in Dissipative Systems and the Self-Stability of Bicycles
Authors: Kirillov Oleg N.
Published: July 2018

Sets in the parameter space corresponding to complex exceptional points (EP) have high codimension, and by this reason, they are difficult objects for numerical location. However, complex EPs play an important role in the problems of the stability of dissipative systems, where they are frequently considered as precursors to instability. We propose to locate the set of complex EPs using the fact that the global minimum of the spectral abscissa of a polynomial is attained at the EP of the highest possible order. Applying this approach to the problem of self-stabilization of a bicycle, we find explicitly the EP sets that suggest scaling laws for the design of robust bikes that agree with the design of the known experimental machines.
Smoothly Transitive Fixed Frequency Hysteresis Current Control Based on Optimal Voltage Space Vector
Authors: Zeng Jiang , Yang Lin , Ling Yuchang , Chen Haoping , Huang Zhonglong , Yu Tao , Yang Bo
Published: July 2018

This paper proposes a smoothly transitive fixed frequency hysteresis current control (ST-FHCC) scheme applied to an active power filter (APF). First of all, a switching fixed frequency hysteresis current control (S-FHCC) is introduced, which is based on phase-to-phase decoupling and switching the control strategies under mode 0 or mode 1, and its weakness is described in detail. To enhance it, an improved approach of regulating the hysteresis bandwidth is presented to fix the switching frequency with switch phases being regulated, based on the optimal voltage space vector (OVSV). Furthermore, a flexible division of the voltage-space-vectors diagram is developed to divide the original voltage-space-vectors diagram into six sub-regions, upon which the control strategies under mode 0 and mode 1 can be switched alternately in order to obtain a smooth transition. As a consequence, ST-FHCC can thoroughly avoid the inherent weakness of S-FHCC of switching that is not smooth as a result of the low control accuracy of current errors. Case studies are carried out through power systems computer aided design/electromagnetic transients including DC (PSCAD/EMTDC) while simulation results verify the effectiveness and superiority of ST-FHCC compared to S-FHCC.
Efficient Oxidative Desulfurization Processes Using Polyoxomolybdate Based Catalysts
Authors: Granadeiro Carlos M. , Ferreira Pedro M. C. , Julião Diana , Ribeiro Luís A. , Valença Rita , Ribeiro Jorge C. , Gonçalves Isabel S. , De Castro Baltazar , Pillinger Martyn , Cunha-Silva Luís , Balula Salete S.
Published: July 2018

This work proposes an efficient desulfurization system to produce low sulfur diesel under sustainable and moderate experimental conditions. Treatment of a real diesel with a sulfur content of 2300 ppm led to 80% desulfurization after 2 h. The processes used conciliate liquid-liquid extraction and sulfur oxidative catalysis. The catalytic performance of the commercial Keggin-polyoxomolybdate H3[PMo12O40] (PMo12) was strategically increased by simple cation exchange, using a long carbon chain (ODAPMo12, ODA = CH3(CH2)17(CH3)3N), and by its incorporation into the Metal-Organic Framework (MOF) NH2-MIL-101(Cr), forming a new active heterogeneous PMo12@MOF composite catalyst. Activity of both catalysts was similar; however, the solid catalyst could be easily recovered and reused, and its stability was confirmed after multiple continuous cycles.
Nanoscale Characteristics and Reactivity of Nascent Soot from n-Heptane/2,5-Dimethylfuran Inverse Diffusion Flames with/without Magnetic Fields
Authors: Jiang Bo , Wang Pengfei , Ying Yaoyao , Luo Minye , Liu Dong
Published: July 2018

In this study, the differences of nanostructure and oxidation reactivity of the nascent soot formed in n-heptane/2,5-dimethylfuran (DMF) inverse diffusion flames (IDF) with/without influence of magnetic fields were studied, and the effects of DMF-doped and magnetic fields were discussed. Morphology and nanostructures of the soot samples were investigated using high-resolution transmission electron spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction, and the oxidation reactivity characteristics were analyzed by thermogravimetric analyzer. Results demonstrated that both additions of DMF-doped and magnetic fields could promote soot production and modify the soot nanostructure and oxidation reactivity in IDF. Soot production increased along with the increase of DMF-doped. With DMF blends, more clustered soot particles and typical core-shell structures with well-organized fringes were exhibited compared with that formed from the pure n-heptane IDF. With effects of magnetic fields, the precursor formation and the oxidization of soot were promoted, soot production was enhanced. Soot particles became relatively more mature with typical core-shell structure, thicker shell, longer fringe lengths, smaller fringe tortuosity, higher graphitization degree and lower oxidation reactivity. With magnetic force pointed to the central line and the inner direction of IDF under the conditions of N pole and S pole of the magnet facing the flame, oxygen was trapped, having an increased residence time to get more chance to react with the fuel molecules to cause more soot to be yielded and oxidized. That resulted in the soot precursor promotion, soot production enhancement, and soot part-oxidization and graphitization.
Feature Extraction and Comprehension of Partial Discharge Characteristics in Transformer Oil from Rated AC Frequency to Very Low Frequency
Authors: Zhou Zhongliu , Zhou Yuanxiang , Huang Xin , Zhang Yunxiao , Wang Mingyuan , Guo Shaowei
Published: July 2018

The reactive current can be reduced effectively by decreasing the frequency of the voltage in partial discharge (PD) test, especially for equipment with large capacitance. Thus, the cost and volume of the test power supply can be economized. To figure out the difference of PD characteristics in transformer oil between rated alternating-current (AC) frequency (50 Hz) and low frequency, tests are conducted from rated AC frequency to very low frequency (0.1 Hz) based on impulse current method. The results show that with the decrease of frequency, the inception voltage increases. The maximum and mean magnitude of discharge and pulse repetition rate first increase slightly, then decrease obviously. The main features of the variation of phase resolved PD (PRPD) patterns, discharge statistical patterns (phase distribution of maximum and mean discharge magnitude, pulse repetition rate qmax–φ, qmean–φ, n–φ; and number distribution of discharge magnitude n–q), and their characteristic parameters (skewness Sk+, Sk−; kurtosis Ku+, Ku−; asymmetry Asy; and correlation coefficient Cc) are depicted in detail, which should be paid attention to when using low frequency voltage. The inner mechanism for these variations is discussed from the aspects of the influence on electric field distribution and discharge process of frequency. Additionally, the variation trend of PD characteristics with the decrease of frequency can provide more information about insulation defect, which can be the supplement for discharge mode recognition.
Optimal Dynamic Reactive Power Reserve for Wind Farms Addressing Short-Term Voltage Issues Caused by Wind Turbines Tripping
Authors: Wu Liang , Guan Lin , Li Feng , Zhao Qi , Zhuo Yingjun , Chen Peng , Lv Yaotang
Published: July 2018

In regional power grids with high wind power penetration, wind turbine tripping poses great challenges to short-term voltage stability. Dynamic reactive power (VAR) compensation (DVC) plays an important role in securing wind farm operation. To address short-term voltage stability issues, voltage disturbance index (DI) and voltage supporting index (SI) are defined to evaluate the degree of voltage fluctuation and voltage supporting ability of a bus, respectively. Then corresponding vector-type features, called disturbance vector (DV) and supporting vector (SV) are proposed based on the defined indexes. The Kendall rank correlation coefficient is adopted to evaluate the matching degree of DV and SV, so as to determine the influenced area of each wind farm. Candidate locations for DVC are determined sequentially. By comprehensively considering the probability of combined disturbance in each wind farm, a site selection method is proposed and then genetic algorithm is applied to optimize the DVC capacity considering short-term voltage security. The proposed method is applied on a modified NE 39-bus system and a real power grid. Comparison with the engineering practice-based method validates its effectiveness.