bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microreactors for Gold Nanoparticles Synthesis: From Faraday to Flow
Authors: Rahman Md. , Rebrov Evgeny
Published: June 2014

The seminal work of Michael Faraday in 1850s transmuted the “Alchemy of gold” into a fascinating scientific endeavor over the millennia, particularly in the past half century. Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) arguably hold the central position of nanosciences due to their intriguing size-and-shape dependent physicochemical properties, non-toxicity, and ease of functionalization and potential for wide range of applications. The core chemistry involved in the syntheses is essentially not very different from what Michael Faraday resorted to: transforming ions into metallic gold using mild reducing agents. However, the process of such reduction and outcome (shapes and sizes) are intricately dependent on basic operational parameters such as sequence of addition and efficiency of mixing of the reagents. Hence, irreproducibility in synthesis and maintaining batch-to-batch quality are major obstacles in this seemingly straightforward process, which poses challenges in scaling-up. Microreactors, by the virtue of excellent control over reagent mixing in space and time within narrow channel networks, opened a new horizon of possibilities to tackle such problems to produce GNPs in more reliable, reproducible and scalable ways. In this review, we will delineate the state-of-the-art of GNPs synthesis using microreactors and will discuss in length how such “flask-to-chip” paradigm shift may revolutionize the very concept of nanosyntheses.
“SmartMonitor”— An Intelligent Security System for the Protection of Individuals and Small Properties with the Possibility of Home Automation
Authors: Frejlichowski Dariusz , Gościewska Katarzyna , Forczmański Paweł , Hofman Radosław
Published: June 2014

“SmartMonitor” is an intelligent security system based on image analysis that combines the advantages of alarm, video surveillance and home automation systems. The system is a complete solution that automatically reacts to every learned situation in a pre-specified way and has various applications, e.g., home and surrounding protection against unauthorized intrusion, crime detection or supervision over ill persons. The software is based on well-known and proven methods and algorithms for visual content analysis (VCA) that were appropriately modified and adopted to fit specific needs and create a video processing model which consists of foreground region detection and localization, candidate object extraction, object classification and tracking. In this paper, the “SmartMonitor” system is presented along with its architecture, employed methods and algorithms, and object analysis approach. Some experimental results on system operation are also provided. In the paper, focus is put on one of the aforementioned functionalities of the system, namely supervision over ill persons.
The Rise, Fall and Potential Resilience Benefits of Jatropha in Southern Africa
Authors: Von Maltitz Graham , Gasparatos Alexandros , Fabricius Christo
Published: June 2014

Jatropha is the latest in a list of “miracle crops” that have been promoted in southern Africa for their perceived development benefits. This was based on promises of high yields, low water requirement, ability to grow on marginal land and lack of competition with food. In less than 10 years, tens of thousands of hectares were acquired for jatropha plantations and thousands of hectares were planted, most of which are now unused or abandoned. Overestimations of jatropha yields coupled with underestimations of the management costs have probably been the prime contributors to the collapse of most jatropha projects in southern African. However, a few projects still survive and show signs of possible long-term sustainability. We consider two such projects, a smallholder-based project in Malawi and a large-scale plantation in Mozambique. Though their long-term sustainability is not proven, both projects may increase resilience by diversifying household income streams and contributing to national fuel security. By identifying what seems to be working in these projects we provide insights as to why other projects may have failed in southern Africa and whether there is still place for jatropha in the region. In essence can jatropha still enhance local/national resilience or are jatropha’s benefits just a myth?
Review of Animal Models of Prostate Cancer Bone Metastasis
Authors: Simmons Jessica , Elshafae Said , Keller Evan , McCauley Laurie , Rosol Thomas
Published: June 2014

Prostate cancer bone metastases are associated with a poor prognosis and are considered incurable. Insight into the formation and growth of prostate cancer bone metastasis is required for development of new imaging and therapeutic strategies to combat this devastating disease. Animal models are indispensable in investigating cancer pathogenesis and evaluating therapeutics. Multiple animal models of prostate cancer bone metastasis have been developed, but few effectively model prostatic neoplasms and osteoblastic bone metastases as they occur in men. This review discusses the animal models that have been developed to investigate prostate cancer bone metastasis, with a focus on canine models and also includes human xenograft and rodent models. Adult dogs spontaneously develop benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer with osteoblastic bone metastases. Large animal models, such as dogs, are needed to develop new molecular imaging tools and effective focal intraprostatic therapy. None of the available models fully reflect the metastatic disease seen in men, although the various models have provided important insight into the metastatic process. As additional models are developed and knowledge from the different models is combined, the molecular mechanisms of prostate cancer bone metastasis can be deciphered and targeted for development of novel therapies and molecular diagnostic imaging.
Ouvrages transversaux portuaires et impacts hydrosédimentaires : le cas du port de Dieppe (Haute Normandie) (Impact of the harbour management at Dieppe, Norther Normandy, France)
Authors: Costa Stéphane , Davidson Robert
Published: June 2014

The impact of jetties on sediment movement, especially in port areas, has long been accurately reported and assessed. This article presents a new example of the influence of such constructions on local hydro-sedimentary conditions. Where the present work is original is in the appearance of a huge and fairly recent accumulation of sand (within the last 10 years) in the Dieppe harbour fairway, whereas this granulometric fracture was until now considered rare on the infratidal area of the Pays de Caux. By using a naturalist approach and a diachronic analysis of the bathymetric port surveys, this article attempts to show the relationship between the port site configuration evolution and the hydro-sedimentary effects that appear. The latter stems from a combination of several factors and processes which alternate in time and space. However, in the absence of new constructions, the recent formation of huge sand accumulation in fairways of other ports in the Haute-Normandy region would suggest an evolution of infratidal hydro-sedimentary conditions of the sector studied.
Les aménagements des littoraux de la Région Bretagne en vue de leur défense contre l'érosion depuis 1949 (Protection of the shoreline from coastal erosion since 1949 in Britanny)
Authors: Hénaff Alain
Published: June 2014

Since 1949, efforts done to protect the coastline from erosion result in the development of increasingly artificial shoreline in Brittany. Using data collected in a coastal georef database, a spatial and temporal analyse of the shore protection is done in relationship with the location of coastal damages and meteorological variability. The aim of these analyses is to show that coastal management trends in Brittany answer locally to erosional crisis without taking into account coastal dynamics on the long term and at a global scale.
Les littoraux sableux et dunaires : de l'abondance à la pénurie en sédiments (Sandy shorelines and coastal dunes : from plenty to scarcity of sediments)
Authors: Paskoff Roland
Published: June 2014

On many coasts large amounts of sediments were drifted shoreward from the sea floor during the world-wide Early Holocène transgression. As still-stand approached around 5 or 6 000 years ago, extended beaches developed and eventually dune fields formed on coastal plains. When progradation ceased because the sediment supply from the offshore zone was depleted, erosion started and became prevalent except where large amounts of sediments were carried down to the coast by rivers, in particular in the deltaic areas.
La bunker archéologie : principes et études de cas sur le littoral du Nord-Pas-de-Calais (Bunker archeology : principles and studies of samples on the Nord-Pas-de- Calais coast)
Authors: Lanoy-Ratel Philippe
Published: June 2014

Sur le terrain, l'étude de l'agencement des vestiges militaires nous donne rapidement des informations pertinentes sur l'évolution des paysages côtiers, en particulier dans les dunes. Cette méthode originale, qui devrait être appelée « bunker archéologie», est basée sur le fait que les bunkers allemands sont d' exceptionnels marqueurs géomorphologiques. Pendant la Seconde Guerre mondiale, ils sont les éléments de base d'un système défensif : le Mur de l'Atlantique (1942-1944). Chaque modèle de bunker est conçu en fonction d'une mission particulière et implanté dans un environnement précis de manière à remplir cet objectif. Un demi-siècle après la fin de la guerre, l'identification du type de bunker permet de révéler rapidement d'éventuels changements paysagers à l'aide de cette corrélation entre mission et implantation originelle.
Un type original de dunes embryonnaires sur la plage macrotidale du Fort Vert (Pas-de-Calais, France) (An original type of incipient dune on the macrotidal beach of Fort Vert (Pas-de-Calais, France))
Authors: Tekin Mestan
Published: June 2014

Shoreline progradation is not common along the Côte d'Opale (North of France). The gently sloping 1500 m-wide beach of "Fort Vert" (east of Calais) is an exception. Abundant sand supply, hydrodynamics favouring accumulation and efficient aeolian deflation explain the development of "insular incipient dunes" on the upper beach. These dunes form below the highest sea-water level. Although periodically submerged, the largest ones survive from year to year, thanks to a very resistant dense rhizome framework due to Elymus farctus. This type of incipient foredunes is associated with long term accretion and shoreline progradation.
Dynamique morphosédimentaire des cordons dunaires de Tréduder et de Saint-Michel-en-Grève (baie de Saint-Michel-en-Grève - Côtes-d'Armor) entre 1990 et 2003 (Morphosedimentary dynamics of Treduder and Saint-Michel-en-Greve dunes (Saint-Michel-en-Greve bay - Cotes-d'Armor) between 1990 and 2003)
Authors: Stephan Pierre , Suanez Serge
Published: June 2014

Recent erosional phenomenon affected the dunes of Saint-Michel- en-Grève bay. Therefore, a study based on dune morphosedimentary dynamics of this sector was undertaken by the local council of the Côtes d' Armor in September 2002. This article presents part of this work focusing on the evolution of Saint-Michel- en- Grève and Tréduder dunes between 1990 and 2003. After a first phase characterised by rapid progradation (between 1990 and 1999), erosion takes place. The retreat of the Saint-Michel-en-Grève goes on to 2001, than a post-erosive adjustment phase appears. Inversely, erosion is still active on Tréduder dunes. Since 1999, dune retreat reaches more than 60 m inducing threat for coastal infrastructures of the road (D786) which is now exposed to wave and surge.
A la recherche des frontières dans la ville post-apartheid. Le cas de Windhoek, capitale de la Namibie (In search of boundaries in the post-apartheid city. The case of Windhoek, capital city of Namibia)
Authors: Sohn Christophe
Published: June 2014

This article is about the dynamic of intra-urban boundaries in Windhoek, capital city of Namibia. Designed in order to control non-white populations, the boundaries laid down by the apartheid regime have participated in the division of the society and the différenciation of spaces. With the advent of a democratic regime, the question concerning the future of the inherited boundaries arises. Between obliteration and reproduction, they appear like mutant objects, fruits of a political and social construction. But, if both powers and city dwellers seek to go beyond some obsolete boundaries, they also seem to fell the need to erect new ones.
L'Eurocité basque Bayonne-Saint-Sébastien, une construction urbaine transfrontalière (The basque euro-city Bayonne San Sebastian, a transborder urban construction)
Authors: Vélasco-Graciet Hélène , Cañas Xavier
Published: June 2014

La fin institutionnelle des frontières au sein de l'Union Européenne depuis 1992 a généré un large mouvement de construction de nouveaux territoires transfrontaliers. Entre l'idéologie d'une Europe des régions et la renaissance d'un territoire historique, le Pays Basque a connu un élan territorial inventif et puissant. C'est par «l'invention» d'une agglomération transfrontalière reliant Bayonne et Saint-Sébastien que les premiers pas ont été posés. Les acteurs publics lancés dans l'aventure ont mis en place les prémisses institutionnels d'une coopération entre deux entités jusque-là séparées pour aller vers une fusion territoriale urbaine. L'agglomération construite est un espace hétérogène fait de limites nouvelles se jouant de l'ancienne frontière internationale ; il semble que cette dernière n'existe plus que dans les pratiques et les représentations des résidents... mais n' est-ce pas un frein suffisant ?
Le goût des autres : paratragédie et cuisine chez Aristophane
Authors: Corbel-Morana Cécile
Published: June 2014

Cooking turns out to be a means of paratragedy in Aristophanes' comedies. This device is based on incongruity and reversal of the traditional distinction between high and low style. This kind of parody is also connected with words borrowed from the language of cooking and taste to describe metaphorically the poem, its creation and its reception. Aristophanes uses these metaphors to express criticisms of the work and craft of comedy or tragedy playwrights, in a way so concrete that he gives them a new meaning as far as the relationship between tragedy and comedy is concerned : not only is tragedy an ingredient of the comic dish cooked by the comic poet, but it is something that comedy feeds on and assimilates.
La dokimasia des nouveaux citoyens dans les cités grecques
Authors: Feyel Christophe
Published: June 2014

Dès la seconde moitié du IVe siècle avant notre ère, la dokimasia (ou « examen préliminaire ») des nouveaux citoyens existait dans les institutions athéniennes. Elle servait de préalable à l'entrée dans le corps civique d'un bienfaiteur étranger à qui l'Assemblée du Peuple avait accordé la citoyenneté athénienne. Menée par le Tribunal du Peuple, cette procédure permettait de s'assurer que le droit de cité concédé à tel ou tel personnage était une récompense adaptée aux bienfaits dont les Athéniens lui étaient redevables et qu'ils attendaient de lui à l'avenir. La documentation aujourd'hui disponible atteste qu'une pratique similaire est apparue dans d'autres cités grecques dans la seconde moitié du IIIe siècle. Les cités qui ont usé de cette procédure l'ont certainement empruntée aux Athéniens, mais elles ont su l'adapter à leurs propres besoins. Pressées par la nécessité, elles se sont résignées à accorder le droit de cité à un grand nombre d'étrangers. Elles les ont alors soumis à une dokimasia pour empêcher des éléments indésirables de trouver leur place parmi les citoyens et pour ainsi mener à bien une politique d'ouverture maîtrisée du corps civique.
L'expression de l'altérité dans l'Égypte des Ptolémées : allophulos, xénos et barbaros
Authors: Veïsse Anne-Emmanuelle
Published: June 2014

Quel type d'« autre » les termes allophulos, xénos et barbaros permettent-ils de définir dans les papyrus ptolémaïques ? Si allophulos peut, dans un contexte d'interaction entre Juifs et non- Juifs, renvoyer à une altérité « ethnico-culturelle », xénos ne désigne l'étranger que sur un plan géographique ; quant à barbaros, sa seule occurrence est paradoxalement le signe d'une intégration à l'hellénisme.
Comment arrêter un massacre : une leçon de rhétorique appliquée (Libanios, Discours XIX)
Authors: Malosse Pierre-Louis
Published: June 2014

The Oration XIX, "To the Emperor Theodosius about the riots" is part of the set of five orations which Libanius composed shortly after the well-known Antioch riots de statuis, A.D. 387, so it cannot be read without connection to the other orations. It is a skilful piece of rhetoric, made of a prologue and two reasoning, separated by the narration of the events. Libanius claims to speak in Constantinople in front of Theodosius, asking him not to take revenge of the offence by sending soldiers to Antioch for massacre or pillage, by executing the principales of the Boule, or by imposing heavy tax. In fact, the sophist did not leave Antioch and the emperor had already forgiven when this oration was delivered. Nevertheless, there is no deceiving intention : it is clear that Libanius wanted to demonstrate how rhetoric - especially his own - could have got by itself the same forgiving. But this oration is not just an exercise : the sophist addresses simultaneously three audiences : the average citizens of Antioch to whom he gives his opinion about what has been done, his friends in paganism and in paideia, by innuendos of political and religious criticisms, and Theodosius himself, in a shape of a real political treatise on how (and why) the emperors must treat riots in the cities.
Diagnosis of hyperfunctional thyroidn odules
Authors: Stebner V. , Görges R. , Farahati J. , Simon D. , Bockisch A. , Rosenbaum-Krumme S. , Nagarajah J. , Ruhlmann M.
Published: June 2014

Aim: Several studies described the ultrasound based real-time elastography (USE) having a high sensitivity, specificity and negative predictive value in the diagnosis of suspicious thyroid nodules. Recently published studies called these results into question. Until now the usefulness of USE in the diagnosis of scintigraphically hyperfunctional thyroid nodules is not examined. Patients, methods: This study included 135 hyperfunctional thyroid nodules of 102 consecutive patients. The following attributes of the nodules were analyzed: stiffness with the USE using scores of Rago or Asteria and ultrasound criteria using TIRADS. Results: 94 of the examined thyroid nodules (70%) were rated as hard (suspicious for malignancy) and 41 nodules (30%) as soft (not suspicious) with a specificity of 30%. The scoring systems of Rago and Asteria showed no sigificant difference. Applying the TIRADS criteria 44 nodules (33%) have a higher risk for malignancy (33 nodules TIRADS 4a, 11 nodules TIRADS 4b). Combining USE and TIRADS 32 nodules (24%) are categorized as suspicious (intersection of hard nodules that are categorized as TIRADS 4a or 4b). Conclusion: Ultrasound based real-time elastography cannot identify scintigraphically hyperfunctional thyroid nodules as benign nodules reliably. Its accuracy in the assessment of at least “hot” thyroid nodules is to be questioned.
Involvement of Caveolin-1 in CD83 Internalization in Mouse Dendritic Cells
Authors: Yang Yuejing , Xin Zhongcheng , Chu Jingjia , Li Na , Sun Tao
Published: June 2014

To become potent T-cell stimulators, DCs need to mature. Treatment with soluble CD83 (sCD83) induces immune tolerance and protects against transplant rejection by maintaining dendritic cells in an immature, tolerogenic state. Until now, the mechanism through which sCD83 keeps DCs immature has not been investigated. The internalizing pathway of CD83 was screened by Western blot, and the direct interactions between internalized proteins were verified through coimmunoprecipitation (co-IP) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). CD83 plasma membrane levels were detected by Western blot using a plasma membrane protein extraction protocol. The changes in CD83 surface levels in DCs were detected by flow cytometry. Caveolin-1 function was detected in a kidney transplant model. In this study, we demonstrated that caveolin-1 could affect CD83 level during endocytosis in mouse DCs. Caveolin-1 coprecipitates with CD83, as demonstrated by co-IP analysis. TEM morphometric analysis of the entire CD83 distribution associated with internalized caveolin-1 demonstrated a significant interaction in cellular vesicles. sCD83 reduces endogenous CD83 plasma membrane levels, and caveolin-1 knockdown reverts CD83 levels in plasma membrane. sCD83 treatment decreases CD83 surface levels in DCs. siRNA to caveolin-1 in DCs inhibits this effect of sCD83. The effects of sCD83-treated DCs were proved in CD1 mice. Knocking down caveolin-1 in DCs obstructs the effects of sCD83 on kidney transplant. In conclusion, our data indicated that a caveolin-dependent endocytic pathway is involved in CD83 internalization in DCs and that caveolin-1 is involved in the activity of DCs.
Twitter, un nouveau « baromètre de l'opinion publique » ?
Authors: Boyadjian Julien
Published: June 2014

L’article interroge l’hypothèse selon laquelle Twitter serait devenu un espace privilégié pour étudier, mesurer voire « prédire » l’opinion publique. Selon certains travaux, ce serait la forte présence de « leaders d’opinion » sur le réseau qui expliquerait son caractère « prédictif ». Afin de discuter cette hypothèse, nous avons constitué un panel de 1 228 individus dont nous avons suivi l’activité durant quatre mois. Le principal résultat est que la majorité des enquêtés, bien que fortement dotés en capitaux culturels, ne parlent que très rarement de politique : seule une minorité peut être apparentée à des « leaders d’opinion ».
Karl Popper: antes y después de Kyoto
Authors: Zanotti Gabriel
Published: June 2014

En su último libro sobre Karl Popper, Mariano Artigas plantea una hermenéutica revolucionaria: muestra que la ética de Popper es el fundamento de su epistemología, y que el fundamento de esa ética está lejos del «conjeturalismo» que suele atribuirse a Popper. Artigas analiza qué significa en Popper la «fe irracional en la razón» y utiliza, como fuente inédita, el dramático relato que hace Popper de su relación con W. W. Bartley, por primera vez, en Kyoto, en 1992. Sea cual fuere la opinión del lector, el libro de Artigas divide la hermenéutica de Popper en un antes y un después.
Cavil-lacions d'Estiu
Authors: Vila Marc-Aureli
Published: June 2014

Durante el siglo XX las experiencias y los razonamientos de los humanos se han visto intensamente intervenidos por situaciones insospechadas y ello en forma acelerada. Las dudas, los interrogantes y los planteamientos se han multiplicado en las últimas décadas. Y ello ha sido positivo. El autor expone aspectos y realidades en proceso de cambio: y lo hace a través de preguntas, de aseveraciones y de esperanzas.
Fire-resistance, physical, and mechanical characterization of particleboard containing Oceanic Posidonia waste
Authors: Saval J. M. , Lapuente R. , Navarro V. , Tenza-Abril A. J.
Published: June 2014

In this work, particleboards manufactured with Oceanic Posidonia waste and bonded with cement are investigated. The particleboards are made with 3/1.5/0.5 parts of cement per part of Posidonia waste. The physical properties of bulk density, swelling, surface absorption, and dimensional changes due to relative humidity as well as the mechanical properties of modulus of elasticity, bending strength, surface soundness, perpendicular tensile strength and impact resistance are studied. In terms of the above properties, the best results were obtained for particleboards with high cement content and when the waste “leaves” are treated (crushed) before board fabrication, due to internal changes to the board structure under these conditions. Based on the results of fire tests, the particleboard is non-flammable without any fire-resistant treatment.
Truth-Seeking at a Distance
Authors: Wiebelhaus-Brahm Eric
Published: June 2014

The Liberian Truth and Reconciliation Commission (LTRC) was established by the Liberian government in 2005 to “promote national peace, security, unity, and reconciliation.” The LTRC thought it essential to allow Liberians who had fled the conflict to participate in the truth and reconciliation process. As a result, it partnered with a US-based non-governmental organization, The Advocates for Human Rights, to conduct the Diaspora Project. This chapter provides an overview of the Diaspora Project, which enabled Liberians on three continents to give statements to the LTRC. Given the wide dispersion of the Liberian diaspora, the author of this chapter demonstrates how information communication technologies were essential in the success of the Diaspora Project.
Counting the Unknown Victims of Political Violence
Authors: Harrison Ann
Published: June 2014

The Benetech Human Rights Data Analysis Group (HRDAG) (http://www.hrdag.org/) analyzes the patterns and magnitude of large-scale human rights violations. Together with local partners, HRDAG collects and preserves human rights data and helps NGOs and other human rights organizations accurately interpret quantitative findings. HRDAG statisticians, programmers, and data analysts develop methodologies to determine how many of those killed and disappeared have never been accounted for - and who is most responsible. This account illustrates how HRDAG pioneered the calculation of scientifically sound statistics about political violence from multiple data sources including the testimony of witnesses who come forward to tell their stories. It describes methodologies that HRDAG analysts have developed to ensure that statistical human rights claims are transparently, demonstrably, and undeniably true.
Human Rights Defenders and the Right to Digital Privacy and Security
Authors: Notley Tanya , Hankey Stephanie
Published: June 2014

Digital technologies, such as mobile phones and the internet, provide new opportunities for Human Rights Defenders to mobilise people, coordinate activities, uncover and document abuses, publish findings, and engage new audiences. However, with these new opportunities come new risks as well. This chapter examines the right to and need for private digital communication as part of freedom of expression in the context of carrying out human rights work. Drawing on their experiences at Tactical Technology Collective, an international non-government organisation, the authors argue that the most effective means to address the digital privacy needs of people who are defending human rights is to provide a range of support - including awareness raising media, how-to toolkits, and hands-on training - that assist Human Rights Defenders to identify and then address digital risks by changing behaviours in ways most appropriate to their local context.
Preparation of Epoxy-Novolac Resin Binder Using Phenolic Rich Fractions of Biomass Pyrolytic Oil as Partial Substitute of Phenol
Authors: Ahmed Murtala Musa , Nasri Noor Shawal , Mohsin Rahmat , Hamza Usman Dadum , Mohammed Jibril
Published: June 2014

Epoxy resins are among the basic components for coatings manufacture but because of their cost and environment effects, some environmental protection regulations have restricted the use of chemicals considered toxic. The potential of using phenolic rich fractions of bio-oil derived from the pyrolysis of a sustainable agricultural waste for epoxy resin synthesis was investigated. Epoxy resins with different concentration of water-insoluble heavy fraction were synthesized. The bio-oil, heavy fraction and prepared resins were later characterized using Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR), Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). FTIR and GC-MS results confirmed the presence of phenols on both the bio-oil and heavy fraction with heavy fraction having a higher concentration. DSC analysis showed a corresponding increase on curing time of the resins with increased quantity of phenolic rich components. FTIR analysis of the resin indicated high-ortho structure. Utilization of bio-oil as a source of phenol for epoxy resins manufacture would significantly reduce the cost and negative environmental effects of the current resins.
Tribological Characterization of the Cutting Zone in Milling Nickel Based Alloy
Authors: Hadi Musfirah Abdul , Ghani Jaharah A. , Haron C.H. Che , Raof Natasha A.
Published: June 2014

In the area of tribology, surface roughness has become one of the most important factors that contributed to the evaluation of part quality during machining operation. In order to understand the behavior of cryogenic cooling assistance in machining Inconel 718, this paper aims to provide better understanding of tribological characterization of liquid nitrogen near the cutting zone of this material in milling process. Experiments were performed using physical vapor deposition (PVD) - coated carbide inserts under cryogenic and dry cutting condition. The cryogenic results of the cutting temperature, cutting forces and surface roughness of the ball nose cutting tool have been compared with those of dry machining. Finally, experimental results proved that cryogenic implementation can decrease the amount of heat transferred to the tool up to almost 70% and improve the surface roughness to a maximum of 31% when compared with dry machining.
Effect of Polyethylene Grafted Maleic Anhydride (PEgMAH) on Tensile Properties and Swelling Behavior of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)/ Natural Rubber (NR)/ Feldspar Composites
Authors: Ho S.H. , Supri A.Ghani , Teh Pei Leng
Published: June 2014

The effects of polyethylene grafted maleic anhydride (PEgMAH) as a compatibilizer on the tensile properties and swelling behavior of ethylene vinyl acetate /Natural Rubber/ Feldspar (EVA/NR/FP) composites were studied. The EVA/NR/FP composites with and without PEgMAH were prepared using Brabender Plasticoder at 160oC with 50rpm rotor speed. The results indicated that EVA/NR/FP/PEgMAH had higher value of tensile strength and M100 but lower elongation at break and percentage mass swell.
The Performances of Intimately Mix and Layer Methods in Microwave Assisted Pyrolysis System
Authors: Mushtaq Faisal , Mat Ramli , Ani Farid Nasir
Published: June 2014

The oil palm shell was subjected to multimode microwave pyrolysis at a fixed microwave power of 300W at 2.54GHz using intimately mix and layer microwave heating methods to observe process temperature, pyrolysis product and bio-oil composition at various levels of Coconut Activated Carbon (CAC). The results indicated that the layers method achieved higher bio-oil yield with complete uniformity of process temperature at high CAC loading compared to intimate mix method. The increased CAC loading increased selectivity towards phenol in bio-oil with maximum phenol 80.23 %area and 51.77%area under GC-MS at 75wt% CAC loading using intimately mix and layer method, respectively. The layer method produced a new product 1,1-dimethyl hydrazine of 11.24–13.01 %area in bio-oils which was not found of using intimately mix method. The 1,1-dimethly hydrazine is an important source of high energy fuel.
Keywords: Oil palm shell; intimately mix method; layer method; coconut activated carbon; microwave assisted pyrolysis; heating profile; bio-oil
The Effect of Blending Ratio on Mechanical Properties of Polylactic Acid (PLA) / Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
Authors: Siti Najihah Abdul Manan , Mohamad Zurina
Published: June 2014

The objective of the study is to improve the mechanical properties of Polylactic acid (PLA)/Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) blend. The blend was prepared via twin screw extruder and compression molding with different composition. The effect of different blend ratio on the mechanical properties was investigated by Tensile and Flexural test. The mechanical properties of PLA shown an improvement compared to the pure PLA with the incorporation of EVA. The flexural modulus increased with the increased of EVA content, while the tensile and flexural strength also increased when EVA increased. The optimum tensile and flexural strength was at 90PLA/10EVA of blends ratio.
Effect of Polypropylene Fiber on the Flexural Strength of Ferrocement
Authors: Usman Fathoni , Shaharudin Syazwan , Abd Ghani Muhammad Faez
Published: June 2014

This paper presents effect of Polypropylene Fiber (PPF) on the flexural strength of ferrocement. Various percentage of PPF content which are 0%, 1.0%, 1.5% were added into mortar matrix during preparing of ferrocement specimens. For each percentage of PPF, three specimen of ferrocement were produced. Each specimen were reinforced with different number of steel wire mesh layers which are 2 layers, 4 layers and 6 layers. Each specimens were tested under 3-poimt loading to obtain its flexural strength. It is observed that optimal percentage of PPF adding into mortar matrix will improve the flexural strength when it is in a range of 1% to 1.5%.
Effects of Elevated Temperatures on the Compression Strength of Nanoclay Filled Unsaturated Polyester Resin
Authors: Fartini M.S. , Majid M.S. Abdul , Afendi Mohd , Amin N.A.M. , Mohamad Azizul
Published: June 2014

The paper describes the effects of the montmorillonite (MMT) fillers commonly known as nanoclay, on the compression properties of unsaturated polyester resins at different weight percentage of nanoclay. Modified resin specimens with 1, 3 and 5 wt. % of nanoclay contents were prepared and subjected to compressive tests according to ASTM D695. The static uniaxial compression testing were conducted at various temperatures ranging from room temperature (RT) to the temperature closer to its glass transition temperatureTgto study the effect of nanoclay fillers on the compressive stress-strain behaviour at high temperatures (room temperature, 35, 45, and 75°C). The mechanical properties of the nanomodified resin including the elastic modulus, maximum stress and failure strain were determined. The experimental results imply that adding these nanoclay fillers has enhanced the elastic modulus, compressive strength, and toughness without sacrificing the strain to failure and thermal stability of the unsaturated polyester. However it was found that generally, all specimens showed degradation in compressive strength with increases in temperatures.
COP Improvement of Thermoelectric Cooler through the Optimization of Heat Dissipation System
Authors: Hafis Mohd Bin Sulaiman , Ridzuan Mohd Jamir Mohd , Firdaus Ahamad Zaidi Ahmad , Shahril S.M. , Farahana Ramli Nur , Chong C.K.
Published: June 2014

This paper presents theoretical and experimental works on the effect of heat transfer for a thermoelectric (TE) cooling system. The study focuses on thermal performance of the system through the optimisation of heat dissipation system for two prototypes that have aluminium and copper heat sink design, respectively. The study revealed that heat sink base area and fin height influenced thermal performance.
The Effect of Water Hammer on Pressure Oscillation of Hydrogen Natural Gas Transient Flow
Authors: Baba Galadima Agaie , Norsarahaida Amin
Published: June 2014

The unexpected closing of a control valve or pumping, which can be planned or accidental could lead to pressure oscillation commonly known as water hammer. Pressure waves oscillation in the fluid flow interaction leads to unsteady state phenomenon. Numerical computation on transient flow model of hydrogen natural gas mixture (HCNG) in a pipeline where different types of valves are considered for effective delivery and safety. Reduced order modeling (ROM) technique is employed in the transient analysis of high pressured HCNG in a short pipe. The flow is governed by a system of Euler equations that are discretized using the implicit Steger-Warming flux vector splitting method (FSM). Eigenmode analysis and the subsequent construction of ROM use only a few dominant flow eigenmodes. The boundary conditions are imposed using the closure law at the upstream and downstream of the pipeline. The effect of closure function is analyzed and the results are presented on different mass ratios and HCNG flow parameters. The transient pressure oscillations of HCNG at different closure functions are compared so as to test the best type of valve for HCNG transportation. The highest and lowest value of transient pressure wave occurs when instantaneous and convex closure law is considered, respectively.
The Influence of Normal Load in Wear Resistance Characteristic of Palm Fatty Acid Distillate
Authors: Syahrullail Samion , Norhakem H.M. , Sapawe Norzahir , Khalid Amir
Published: June 2014

The aims of this study were to determine the friction coefficient and the wear behaviour of palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD) using a four-ball tribotester, following the ASTM D-4172. In this paper, the normal load applied on the ball bearings varied from 40 kg to 120 kg. Experimental temperature was held constant at 75oC, while rotational speed was fixed at 1200 rpm. The test duration was one hour. Tests that were carried out using palm fatty acid distillate were conducted in exactly the same way using commercial hydraulic oil (HO) as a reference lubricant. The analyses focused on the friction coefficient and worn scar characteristic. Wear scar diameter was measured and the worn surface condition was observed using a high resolution microscope. Results showed that PFAD has a lower coefficient of friction than commercial hydraulic oil.
Tensile Shear Strength of Wood Adhesive from Recycled Polystyrene
Authors: Mohd Jasri Muhammad Azrie Husainy , Afendi Mohd , Nik N.Z. , Izzawati B. , Nurhashima S. , Nor A. , Yahud S. , Amin N.A.M.
Published: June 2014

This paper discloses a method to recycle polystyrene (PS) waste by adding ethanol based hydrocarbons solvent to produce a novel adhesive for wood joining application. In the experiments, tensile shear strength of wood lap joint having various overlap lengths was conducted. It was found that this new adhesive has significant shear strength as compared to commercial wood adhesive. This relatively low cost adhesive has potential to be used for wood joining application especially in marine structures.
The Instability Improvement of the Shape Memory Alloy Composite Plates Subjected to In-Plane Parabolic Temperature Distribution
Authors: Rasid Z.A. , Zahari R. , Ayob Amran Bin
Published: June 2014

The designs of thin structure components of aerospace vehicles require the consideration of thermal buckling and post-buckling problems. Thermal buckling of the structures in the aerospace environment may occur due to non-uniformly distributed temperature field. A finite element method study on the post-buckling of composite plates with embedded shape memory alloy wires was conducted. The plates were subjected to in-plane and through-thickness non-uniform thermal loadings where the non-uniform temperature distributions considered were parabolic in-plane and linearly varying through-thickness thermal loadings that may act separately or in combination. Recovery stress induced by the shape memory alloy was exploited to improve the thermal buckling behaviours of the composite plates. A non-linear finite element model along with its source codes that considered the recovery stress of the shape memory alloy, the non-uniform temperature field, the temperature dependent properties of the SMA and the composite matrix were developed. The post-buckling paths that showed the effect of the shape memory alloy on the thermal post-buckling behaviour of composite plates were generated using the source codes. It was found that the strain energy tuning method of the shape memory alloy greatly improved the post-buckling behaviour of composite plates subjected to the non-uniform temperature distributions.
Experimental Investigation on the Thermal Insulation Properties of Eic-Cellulose
Authors: Sri Wuryanti , Poertadji Suhardjo , Soegijono Bambang , Henry Nasution
Published: June 2014

The material with low thermal conductivity means it has a high insulating capability for reducing heat transfer. One of materials for insulation is cellulose. This study presents a insulation material of cellulose made from reeds imperata cylindrical type with the extraction process. The extraction of cellulose fibers to form a sheet by adding 3.5% Na-CMC (Sodium Cellulose Carboksil Metyl). The process of forming the sheet uses blender for 30 minutes, 45 minutes, and 60 minutes. Furthermore, each mixture are put into the oven with temperature of 40°C for 36 hours. There are three parameters will be investigated, i.e. thermal conductivity, density and thermal capacity. The results showed that the lowest and the highest of thermal conductivities were 0.22 W/m K and a maximum 0.36 W/m K, respectively.
Control System of Fish Feeding Devices in Actual Pond
Authors: Bin Md Jamal Muhammad Hazwan , Faiz Y.M.
Published: June 2014

The main objective of this project is to identify the development of PLC and movement control system providers to eat in wireless cable. Further the second objective is to develop a conveyor system for delivery of food to the system cable feed providers and the final objective is to develop a PLC system and a wireless control system. Components required in this project can be divided into two groups which are electrical components and mechanical components. For this research, some components are required and divided into two groups which the electrical components and mechanical components. The total average weight of pallet conveyors operate to fall during the first 5 minutes is a 286.67 grams, followed by 10 minutes is a 467.78 grams, 15 minutes is a 665.56 grams, last 20 minutes is a 860 grams and the last 25 minutes is a 964.45 grams. The average an increase was due to the time factor and heavy pallet that fell during the process. Then the average results for each test height of the cable before and after process run is taken and graphs drawn. For test average before the process run at station 1 and station 4 is 0.2371 meters followed by station 2, 3, 5 and station 6 is 0.1863 meters. After that, the test run average after the process for station 1 and station 4 is 1177 meters followed station 2, 3, 5 and station 6 is 1.1269 meters. The graph decrease machine because food distribution heavy and less strong pillars to hold cable the support and supports the machine. To increases graphs was due to the bad weather and weight factors distribution of food machine. In summary, the control system of the fish food provider can be developed even more to advance the fishing industry particular in Malaysia and general in the world.
Comparison of NARX Neural Network and Classical Modelling Approaches
Authors: Sani Muhammad Gaya , Abdul Wahab Norhaliza , Sam Yahya M. , Samsudin Sharatul Izah , Jamaludin Irma Wani
Published: June 2014

Classical optimization tools are effective when precise mechanistic models exist to support their design and implementation. However, most of the real-world processes are complex due to either nonlinearities or uncertainties (or both) and environmental variations, thus making realizing accurate mathematical models for such processes quite difficult or often impossible. Black box approach tends to present a better alternative in such situations. This paper presents a comparison of nonlinear autoregressive with eXogenous (NARX) neural network and traditional modelling techniques [autoregressive with exogenous input (ARX) and autoregressive moving average with exogenous input (ARMAX)]. The models were validated using experimental data from full-scale plants. Simulation results revealed that the performance of the NARX neural network is better compared to the ARMAX and ARX. The NARX neural network may serve as a valuable forecasting tool for the plants.
Strength of Ductile Adhesive Butt Joint Bonded with Dissimilar Adherents: Effect of Surface Roughness
Authors: Atikah Nurul , Afendi Mohd , Hirmaliza Siti , Abdul Majid Mohd Shukry , Amira Nurul , Mazlee Mohd Noor
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this project is to study the influence of the macroscopic state of surface roughness of the dissimilar adherent on the strength of adhesive joint. In this project, several types of sandpaper were used to produce different surface roughness of stainless steel and aluminium alloy adherents. All bonding surfaces were polished with different types of sandpaper. Butt joints of dissimilar adherent specimen were produced using a ductile adhesive (i.e. Araldite®Standard) with same bond thickness. The specimens were tested under static loading condition using universal testing machine (UTM) to investigate the relationship of the surface roughness and bond strength.
Pressure Distribution around Mixing Blades in Biodiesel Reactor Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
Authors: Sadikin Azmahani , Md Noor Md Iskandar , Isa Norasikin Mat , Basharie Siti Mariam , Khalid Amir
Published: June 2014

This paper presented simulation analysis of stress distribution along a mixing blades propeller used in biodiesel reactor tank. The mixing blade types used are: (1) three bladed mixing propeller, (2) pitch turbine blade and (3) Rushton blade. ANSYS FLUENT software was used to run the simulation. The maximum stress occurs when using three bladed mixing propellers type. The minimum stress occurs when using the Rushton blade. Therefore, the Rushton blade is the best blade used for biodiesel reactor. Stress concentration is observed at the fillet for all blade types. The selection of the right type mixing blade can improve the biodiesel production and lower the maintenance cost. The result obtained from the simulation is agreed well with the published data.
Strength of Three-Point-Bending Ductile Adhesive Joint with Dissimilar Adherents
Authors: Nurhashima S. , Afendi Mohd , Izzawati Basirom , Amin N.A.M. , Majid M.S. Abdul , Taufik M.
Published: June 2014

In this study, an experimental investigation was conducted in order to determine the effect of different adhesive thickness (i.e., 0.1, 0.5, 0.7 and 1 mm) on strength of ductile adhesive joint. The study scope covers both experiment and analysis. In particular, two different types of material, aluminum and stainless steel as adherents were used and joined by using a specific adhesive jig. By using universal tensile machine (UTM), three-point-bending (3PB) test was conducted. To obtain the result from the experiment, continuous load is applied to the adhesive until the adhesive become fracture. The result obtained has enabled the clarification of failure behavior mechanisms and characteristics of adhesive bonding.
The Correlation between Applied Load and Sliding Speed on Wear Behaviour of Tamarind Wood under Dry Sliding Tests
Authors: Zamri Bin Yusoff , Azmi Yusoff
Published: June 2014

The correlation between applied load and sliding speed on the wear behavior of tamarind wood was analyzed using statistical analysis. Dry sliding wear tests were conducted using the block-on-roller technique while mass loss was measured by using a micro balancer. The test specimens measured 20 mm by 20 mm by 10 mm and were made of tamarind wood. The roller which acted as the counter surface material was made of mild steel (120 HV), cut from a commercial mild steel bar (50 mm in diameter) measuring 300 mm in length. Dry sliding wear tests on tamarind wood was conducted using different sliding velocities (60 rpm, 95 rpm and 145 rpm) and applied using different loads (10 N, 20 N and 30 N). The test results were analyzed and inferred using linear correlation and regression. The results suggest that sliding speed and applied load have a significant and positive influence on mass loss. A direct correlation between applied load and sliding speed on the mass loss of tamarind wood was evident. Regression analysis indicated that the contribution of applied load and sliding speed on the mass loss of tamarind wood under dry sliding was at 82.6%.