bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity Analysis and Experimental Research on Ball Bearing Early Fault Diagnosis Based on Testing Signal From Casing
Authors: Chen G. , Hao T. F. , Wang H. F. , Zhao B. , Wang J. , Cheng X. Y.
Published: June 2014

The ball bearings of an aero-engine are key parts that frequently fail, and it is very important to effectively carry out fault diagnosis of the ball bearings. However, in the present research work, the ball bearing faults characteristics are extracted mainly from the bearing house signals, it is well known that usually only the casing signals can be measured in practical aero-engine test, and the ball bearing faults characteristics will greatly weaken after transmitting to the casing from the bearing house, therefore, it is very important to extract the fault characteristics of ball bearings from casing vibration signals for the ball bearing fault diagnosis in the practical aero-engine. In this study, simulation experiments for ball bearing faults are conducted using two rotor experimental rigs with casings. In addition, by means of the impulse response method, the transfer characteristics from the ball bearings to casing measuring points are measured, and a sensitivity analysis is performed. Faults are created on the inner ring, outer ring, and ball of the ball bearings in the two experimental rigs. The ball bearing experiments are carried out, and the fault features are extracted by means of a wavelet envelope analysis. The experimental results indicate that, with high connection stiffness between the bearing house and the casing, there is little vibration attenuation. However, with low connection stiffness, the vibration attenuation is great. After the impulse vibrations caused by the ball bearing faults are transmitted to the casing, the casing vibration is very weak and is often submerged in other signals. However, the ball bearing fault characteristic frequencies can still be effectively extracted from the weak casing vibration signals by using a wavelet envelope analysis. The research results in this study provide an experimental basis for a ball bearing fault diagnosis based on a casing test signal from a practical aero-engine.
Effect of Hinge Gap Width of a St. Jude Medical Bileaflet Mechanical Heart Valve on Blood Damage Potential—An In Vitro Micro Particle Image Velocimetry Study
Authors: Jun Brian H. , Saikrishnan Neelakantan , Arjunon Sivakkumar , Min Yun B. , Yoganathan Ajit P.
Published: June 2014

The hinge regions of the bileaflet mechanical heart valve (BMHV) can cause blood element damage due to nonphysiological shear stress levels and regions of flow stasis. Recently, a micro particle image velocimetry (μPIV) system was developed to study whole flow fields within BMHV hinge regions with enhanced spatial resolution under steady leakage flow conditions. However, global velocity maps under pulsatile conditions are still necessary to fully understand the blood damage potential of these valves. The current study hypothesized that the hinge gap width will affect flow fields in the hinge region. Accordingly, the blood damage potential of three St. Jude Medical (SJM) BMHVs with different hinge gap widths was investigated under pulsatile flow conditions, using a μPIV system. The results demonstrated that the hinge gap width had a significant influence during the leakage flow phase in terms of washout and shear stress characteristics. During the leakage flow, the largest hinge gap generated the highest Reynolds shear stress (RSS) magnitudes (∼1000 N/m2) among the three valves at the ventricular side of the hinge. At this location, all three valves indicated viscous shear stresses (VSS) greater than 30 N/m2. The smallest hinge gap exhibited the lowest level of shear stress values, but had the poorest washout flow characteristics among the three valves, demonstrating propensity for flow stasis and associated activated platelet accumulation potential. The results from this study indicate that the hinge is a critical component of the BMHV design, which needs to be optimized to find the appropriate balance between reduction in fluid shear stresses and enhanced washout during leakage flow, to ensure minimal thrombotic complications.
Polar Histograms of Curvature for Quantifying Skeletal Joint Shape and Congruence
Authors: Halilaj Eni , Laidlaw David H. , Moore Douglas C. , Crisco Joseph J.
Published: June 2014

The effect of articular joint shape and congruence on kinematics, contact stress, and the natural progression of joint disease continues to be a topic of interest in the orthopedic biomechanics literature. Currently, the most widely used metrics of assessing skeletal joint shape and congruence are based on average principal curvatures across the articular surfaces. Here we propose a method for comparing articular joint shape and quantifying joint congruence based on three-dimensional (3D) histograms of curvature—shape descriptors that preserve spatial information. Illustrated by experimental results from the trapeziometacarpal joint, this method could help unveil the interrelations between joint shape and function and provide much needed insight for the high incidence of osteoarthritis (OA)—a mechanically mediated disease whose onset has been hypothesized to be precipitated by joint incongruity.
Pitching Effects of Buoyancy During Four Competitive Swimming Strokes
Authors: Cohen Raymond C.Z. , Cleary Paul W. , Harrison Simon M. , Mason Bruce R. , Pease David L.
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this study was to determine the pitching effects of buoyancy during all competitive swimming strokes—freestyle, backstroke, butterfly, and breaststroke. Laser body scans of national-level athletes and synchronized multiangle swimming footage were used in a novel markerless motion capture process to produce three-dimensional biomechanical models of the swimming athletes. The deforming surface meshes were then used to calculate swimmer center-of-mass (CoM) positions, center-of-buoyancy (CoB) positions, pitch buoyancy torques, and sagittal plane moments of inertia (MoI) throughout each stroke cycle. In all cases the mean buoyancy torque tended to raise the legs and lower the head; however, during part of the butterfly stroke the instantaneous buoyancy torque had the opposite effect. The swimming strokes that use opposing arm and leg strokes (freestyle and backstroke) had smaller variations in CoM positions, CoB positions, and buoyancy torques. Strokes with synchronized left-right arm and leg movement (butterfly and breaststroke) had larger variations in buoyancy torques, which impacts the swimmer’s ability to maintain a horizontal body pitch for these strokes. The methodology outlined in this paper enables the rotational effects of buoyancy to be better understood by swimmers, allowing better control of streamlined horizontal body positioning during swimming to improve performance.
Three new species of Parastenocarididae (Crustacea, Copepoda, Harpacticoida) from India
Authors: TOTAKURA VENKATESWARA RAO , REDDY YENUMULA RANGA , SHAIK SHABUDDIN
Published: June 2014

To date, only 16 species of the very diverse family Parastenocarididae have been reported from the Indian subcontinent. This paper gives an illustrated description of three new species, viz. Parastenocaris edakkal n. sp., Proserpinicaris corgosinhoi n. sp., and Proserpinicaris karanovici n. sp., and discusses their position in the respective genera. While the first two species were found sympatrically in the Edakkal Cave in Kerala State of southwestern India, the third one was collected from a farm bore in the riparian zone of the River Krishna in Andhra Pradesh State of southeastern India. The Palaearctic genus Proserpinicaris Jakobi, 1972 sensu Karanovic, Cho & Lee, 2012, is being reported for the first time from India. Parastenocaris edakkal n. sp. belongs to the brevipes-group of the genus Parastenocaris Kessler, 1913 sensu Lang, 1948 et Reid, 1995. It is chiefly characterized by the male leg 4 basal chitinous complex consisting of one large sclerotized plate together with two small accessory lobes, and one strong, hook-like spine at the inner distal corner, and the endopod is membranous and ventricose in outline, with bulbous proximal part drawn out distally into biserrulate, pointed structure. Proserpinicaris corgosinhoi n. sp. can be easily separated from its congeners, inter alia, by the short caudal rami (c.1.2–1.4 times as long as wide), bearing 2 unequal lateral setae (I, III) inserted proximally; male leg 3 proximal segment is stumpy and has one prominent tubular pore on proximal anterior surface; and leg 4 endopod is short, membranous and somewhat conical, and the hyaline structure is relatively large, foliaceous and lies rather close to endopod. Proserpinicaris karanovici n. sp. has its own unique set of characters, of which the following are noteworthy: the caudal rami in both sexes are about 2.6 times as long as wide, gradually tapering, with only 2 lateral setae inserted in proximal half; and the male leg 4 endopod is nearly as long as first exopodal segment, membranous, with lateral margins fringed with tiny spinules, and the hyaline structure is short, leaf-like and occurring close to, and overlapping, the endopod.
Aleutian Ancorinidae (Porifera, Astrophorida): Description of three new species from the genera Stelletta and Ancorina
Authors: LEHNERT HELMUT , STONE ROBERT P.
Published: June 2014

Two new species of the genus Stelletta and one new species of Ancorina are described from the Aleutian Islands of Alaska and compared to congeners of the region. This is the first record of the genus Ancorina in the North Pacific Ocean. Stelletta ovalae Tanita 1965 is also reported for the first time from the Bering Sea and Alaska.
The genus Milnesium (Tardigrada: Eutardigrada: Milnesiidae) in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina and Tennessee, USA), with the description of Milnesium bohleberi sp. nov.
Authors: BARTELS PAUL J. , NELSON DIANE R. , KACZMAREK ŁUKASZ , MICHALCZYK ŁUKASZ
Published: June 2014

For many decades the genus Milnesium was thought to consist of a single, cosmopolitan species: Milnesium tardigradum Doyère, 1840. However, recently the genus has been re-evaluated, and numerous new species have been described. Currently, over twenty extant species and one fossil are recognised, and most appear to have very narrow geographic ranges. It is doubtful that M. tardigradum sensu stricto is truly cosmopolitan, but to evaluate this hypothesis, specimens previously identified as M. tardigradum must be re-examined using newly proposed taxonomic characters. As part of the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory (ATBI) we collected Milnesium specimens from various locations in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP). Two Milnesium species have been evaluated, and one of them, Milnesium bohleberi sp. nov., is new to science. The new species is most similar to M. eurystomum but differs by shorter claws and a shorter, narrower, and more cylindrical buccal tube. The other Milnesium species, very rare in our collection, is morphologically indistinguishable from Milnesium granulatum Ramazzotti 1962, which was previously known only from Chile, Italy and Romania. Based on the recently revised description of M. tardigradum sensu stricto, this nominal species for the genus has not been found in the GSMNP samples.
Three new species and a new record of the spider genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 from Brunei (Araneae, Zodariidae)
Authors: DANKITTIPAKUL PAKAWIN , KOH JOSEPH K.H. , SINGTRIPOP TIPPAWAN
Published: June 2014

This article is the first formal record of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 in Brunei Darussalam. Four Mallinella species are documented. Mallinella merimbunenis sp. nov., M. myrmecophaga sp. nov., and M. platyrhyncha sp. nov. are newly described. The females of M. bigemina Dankittipakul, Jocqué & Singtripop, 2012 are here recorded from Brunei for the first time. The latter species was previously known only from an evergreen hill forest at 2,000 m elevation at Mt. Kinabalu of Kinabalu Park in Sabah.
Investigation of photocatalytic degradation of phenol by Fe(III)-doped TiO2 and TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Hemmati Borji Saeedeh , Nasseri Simin , Mahvi Amir Hossein , Nabizadeh Ramin , Javadi Amir Hossein
Published: June 2014

In this study Fe (III)-doped TiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by sol–gel method at two atomic ratio of Fe/Ti, 0.006 and 0.034 percent. Then the photoactivity of them was investigated on degradation of phenol under UV (<380 nm) irradiation and visible light (>380 nm). Results showed that at appropriate atomic ratio of Fe to Ti (% 0.034) photoactivity of Fe(III)–doped TiO2 nanoparticles increased. In addition, the effects of various operational parameters on photocatalytic degradation, such as pH, initial concentration of phenol and amount of photocatalyst were examined and optimized. At all different initial concentration, highest degradation efficiency occurred at pH = 3 and 0.5 g/L Fe(III)–doped TiO2 dosage. With increase in initial concentration of phenol, photocatalytic degradation efficiency decreased. Photoactivity of Fe (III)-doped TiO2 under UV irradiation and visible light at optimal condition (pH = 3 and catalyst dosage = and 0.5 g/L) was compared with P25 TiO2 nanoparticles. Results showed that photoactivity of Fe(III)-doped TiO2 under visible light was more than P25 TiO2 photoactivity, but it was less than P25 TiO2 photoactivity under UV irradiation. Also efficiency of UV irradiation alone and amount of phenol adsorption on Fe(III)-doped TiO2 at dark condition was investigated.
Sample size for the assessment of soybean inbred populations
Authors: Colombari Filho José Manoel , Geraldi Isaias Olívio
Published: June 2014

In plant breeding programs, the knowledge about the appropriate sample size for the evaluation of populations is very important. A small sample reduces the chance of selecting superior genotypes, whereas a very large sample may lead to unnecessary increases in cost and labor. A population consisting of 192 soybean lines was divided in groups of 24 lines, which were assessed for grain yield in eight randomized complete block experiments. Analyses of variance were performed for each experiment as well as for groups of experiments, resulting in analyses of variance consisting of 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144, 168, and 192 lines. As the sample size increased, the width of confidence intervals of parameter estimates decreased, stabilizing with samples of 144 lines. Therefore, an appropriate sample size for the evaluation of soybean inbred populations should contain about 150 lines.
SeptiFast for diagnosis of sepsis in severely ill patients from a Brazilian hospital
Authors: Sitnik Roberta , Marra Alexandre Rodrigues , Petroni Roberta Cardoso , Ramos Ozires Pereira Santos , Martino Marinês Dalla Valle , Pasternak Jacyr , Santos Oscar Fernando Pavão dos , Mangueira Cristóvão Luis Pitangueira , Pinho João Renato Rebello
Published: June 2014

Objective To test and validate a multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction method for bloodstream infections, as well as to compare the results with conventional blood culture.Methods A total of 114 consecutive patients with clinical evidence of sepsis were submitted to blood culture and LightCycler™ SeptiFast tests.Results More positive specimens (23; 20.2%) were detected using the LightCycler™ SeptiFast than the blood culture (17; 14.9%), with an agreement of 86.8%. Discordant results were seen in four patients positive only to blood culture, ten positive only to LightCycler™ SeptiFast and one to different pathogens found by each test. Infections with microorganisms detected only using blood culture reassured the need to perform both tests. The mean time to results for blood culture was 5 days for negative and 3.5 days for positive results. LightCycler™ SeptiFast results were achieved in less than 8 hours.Conclusion LightCycler™ SeptiFast showed a high potential as a test to be carried out concomitantly with blood culture for sepsis diagnosis in severely ill patients. This test allowed a faster diagnosis of bacterial and fungal infections that helped to reduce hospital stay and to control the use of antibiotics. LightCycler™ SeptiFast can also eventually detect microorganism and infections that are hardly detected by blood culture, especiallyCandidanon-albicans infections.
Coral reef aorta, emergency surgical: case report and literature review
Authors: Belczak Sergio Quilici , Sincos Igor Rafael , Aun Ricardo , Costa Kaline Viana , Araujo Etianne Andrade
Published: June 2014

Coral reef aorta is described as an uncommon entity characterized by the presence of coarse calcifications, which are developed in the visceral aorta. These calcifications grow toward the lumen of the artery and can result in significant stenosis, so that causing malperfusion of the lower limbs, visceral ischemia or hypertension secondary to renal involvement. We report here a case of a 54-year-old patient with coral reef aorta and symptomatic. The clinical presentation of the patient required the surgical approach. A review of literature in major databases was conducted to compare health-related aspects of the disease presentation and management. Coral reef aorta should be considered as the diagnosis for patients with visceral and limbs ischemia. The approach in our case was consistent with other studies previously published in the literature.
Scales on Quality of Life in patients with spinal cord injury: integrative review
Authors: Aquarone Rita Lacerda , Faro Ana Cristina Mancussi e
Published: June 2014

Studies evaluating the Quality of Life of individuals with spinal cord injury using different research tools demonstrate that the Quality of Life scores are considered low both in national and international studies. The objective of this review was to characterize the international scientific production about the most used scales to assess Quality of Life in patients with spinal cord injury. We examined articles on Quality of Life of patients with spinal cord injury published over the last 5 years and indexed in the National Library of Medicine (PUBMED). During this period, 28 articles met the inclusion criteria. Eleven studies were conducted in the United States, five articles were published in Australia, and four in Canada. Brazil, France, Holland, India, Japan, Norway, Singapore and Switzerland contributed with one study each. The scientific articles were published in 13 high impact factor journals. Seven different instruments to assess Quality of Life were used in the studies: Satisfaction with Life Scale, Short Form (36) Health Survey, The Brief Version of the WHO Quality of Life Questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF), Comprehensive Quality of Life Scale, Life Situation Questionnaire-Revised, Quality of Well-Being Scale and the SF-12® Health Survey. The articles examined underscore the impact of spinal cord injury in the Quality of Life of patients, demonstrating how this condition impairs their lives, mainly socially, but followed by the physical aspects. Despite the studies have different goals they all acknowledge that further studies are necessary in order to determine the Quality of Life of patients with spinal cord injury. Specific instruments should be chosen or developed and validated in order to fulfill this purpose
Computer Aided Design of Wires Extrusion from Biocompatible Mg-Ca Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Milenin A. , Gzyl M. , Rec T. , Plonka B.
Published: June 2014

Mathematical model of small-diameter wires extrusion from biocompatible MgCa08 (Mg - 0.8% Ca) magnesium alloy was developed in the current paper in order to determine window of allowable technological parameters. Compression and tensile tests were carried out within temperature range 250-400°C and with different strain rates to determine the fracture conditions for the studied alloy. Finite element (FE) analysis was used to predict the billet temperature evolution and material damage during processing. The extrusion model takes into account two independent fracture mechanisms: a) surface cracking due to exceeding of the incipient melting temperature and b) utilization of material formability. FE simulations with different initial billet temperatures and pressing speeds were performed in order to determine the extrusion limit diagram (ELD) for MgCa08 magnesium alloy. The developed ELD was used to select the parameters for the direct extrusion of wires with diameter of 1 mm. Then, the extrusion of twelve wires was conducted at 400°C with pressing speed 0.25 mm/s. It was reported that the obtained wires were free from defects, which confirmed the good agreement between numerical and experimental results.
Comparative Characteristics of the AlZr Alloy Materials Electrical and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Knych T. , Piwowarska-Uliasz M. , Uliasz P. , Wiecheć J.
Published: June 2014

The subject of the present article consists in obtaining the wire production material with the controlled, during the heat treatment, level of electrical and mechanical properties. In the case of the AlZr alloys the appropriate strength properties are obtained in the technological process through the introduction of the specified value of the cold working (work-hardening). In turn,the AlZr alloy resistivity value is dependent on both the amount of the zircon additive and its placement characteristics in the aluminium structure (solid solution or emissions). The paper presents comparative resistivity and hardness tests of the AlZr alloy material with the zircon content ranging from 0.05 to 0.32% mas. Zr produced in the continuous casting technology as well as in the continuous casting and rolling technology.
Proposal of Method of Removal of Mould Material from the Fine Structure of Metallic Foams used as Filters
Authors: Kroupová I. , Bednářová V. , Elbel T. , Radkovský F.
Published: June 2014

Metallic foams are materials that are subject of an ongoing research with the broad applicability in many different areas (e.g. automotive industry, building industry, medicine, etc.). These metal materials contain in their structure artificially created pores. These pores give them specific properties, such as: large rigidity at low density, high thermal conductivity, capability to absorb energy, etc. Since the discovery of porous metallic materials numerous methods of production have been developed. The aim of the paper is to introduce effective casting methods of manufacturing of metallic foams, namely cast metal filters from the aluminum alloy. Research deals with investment casting with use of pattern made of polymeric foam, which is used for production of metallic foam with open pores. The main disadvantage of this procedure consists in removing the mould material without damaging the fine structure of the cast filter. Plaster is used as the mould material and the most important result of this paper is the presentation of the effective procedure of plaster removal from the porous structure of cast filters.
Improved Interfacial Properties of PA6/DE Blends by DE-g-MAH Prepared through Ultrasound Assisted Extrusion
Authors: Bao W. , Wu H. , Xie T. , Guo S.
Published: June 2014

In this paper, ultrasound was applied in extrusion reaction processing to graft an Elastomer (DE) with maleic anhydride (MAH), in order to improve the non-polarity of DE. Two types of DE-g-MAH were prepared by different methods and had similar grafting degree about 0.2 % and then they were added into the polyamide-6/elastomer (PA6/DE) blends, respectively. The effect of DE-g-MAH on the interfacial properties of PA6/DE blends was studied. The experimental results showed that, compared to the DE-g-MAH initiated by peroxide, DE-g-MAH initiated by ultrasound had better effect on refining the particle size of the dispersion phase and keeping the stability of the phase in the blends, which could be confirmed through SEM and Molau tests. When 5 % DE-g-MAH initiated by peroxide was added, the particle size of dispersion phase was 3.90 μm, however, when 5 % DE-g-MAH initiated by ultrasound was added, the particle size of dispersion phase was 2.82 μm. The results of TGA and mechanical tests showed the improved interfacial interaction and enhanced interfacial adhesion of the blend by adding DE-g-MAH, respectively.
Experimental and Computational Investigations of Creep Responses of Wood/PVC Composite Members
Authors: Pulngern T. , Kaewkalya P. , Rosarpitak V. , Sombatsompop N.
Published: June 2014

This article reported on finite element simulation to predict the creep responses of wood/poly (vinyl chloride) (WPVC) composite members before and after strengthening by using high carbon steel (HCS) flat bar strips bonded to the tension side of composite members. The short-term properties and creep characteristics, in accordance with power law models of WPVC composites and HCS flat bar materials, were determined individually by extensive experimental investigations. The experimental results indicated that strengthening of WPVC composites with HCS flat bar strips could increase the flexural and creep performances of the WPVC composite members both in flat-wise and edge-wise directions. The improvement in the edge-wise direction was relatively greater than that in the flat-wise direction, representing the loading direction dependence for this composite member. Abaqus finite element analysis (FEA) software was applied to predict the creep responses of WPVC composite members based on the characteristics of the individual component material; these results were then verified by the experimental results. Good correlations between FEA and experimental results were found in all cases, indicating that Abaqus software with the power law creep model can be used as an alternative tool for determining the creep responses of WPVC composites.
Evaluation of Fast Food Behavior in Pre-School Children and Parents Following a One-Year Intervention with Nutrition Education
Authors: Gao Yongqing , Huang Yuee , Zhang Yongjun , Liu Fengqiong , Feng Cindy , Liu Tingting , Li Changwei , Lin Dongdong , Mu Yongping , Tarver Siobhan , Wang Mao , Sun Wenjie
Published: June 2014

A community-based intervention study was conducted to assess a nutrition education intervention on western style fast food consumption among Chinese children and parents. Eight kindergartens from three district areas of Hefei City (a total of 1252 children aged 4–6 years and their parents) were randomly selected. Descriptive and analytical statistical methods were used to evaluate the baseline, midterm, and final western style fast food knowledge, attitude, and practice in both parents and children were used to identify and compare the knowledge, attitude, and practice in the parents and children. Parents and children were divided into “intervention” and “control” groups based on nutrition education status. Consumption of western style fast food at breakfast in Chinese children and parents is not high. The main reasons for this in children is that consumption of western style fast food is not viewed as “food”, but rather as a “gift” or “interesting”. The time of children’s consumption of western style fast food is mostly likely to be in the weekends. The nutrition education modified the parents’ western style fast food behavior (p < 0.01), although it did not change significantly in children. The healthy nutrition concept should be built up among Chinese, especially in children. Insights from the families provide leads for future research and ideas for the nutrition education.
Cholesteryl-Modification of a Glucomannan from Bletilla striata and Its Hydrogel Properties
Authors: Zhang Mengshan , Sun Lin , Zhao Wencui , Peng Xiaoxia , Liu Fuqiang , Wang Yanping , Bi Yajing , Zhang Hengbi , Zhou Yifa
Published: June 2014

A glucomannan-type polysaccharide, named BSP, was obtained from the tubers of Bletilla striata by ultrasonic-assisted extraction, ethanol precipitation, deproteination and gel-permeation chromatography. HPLC analysis revealed that BSP contained mannose and glucose in the molar ratio of 3.5:1. Its molecular weight (Mw) was estimated to be 20 kDa. Methylation analysis, FT-IR and NMR analyses indicated that BSP consisted of (1→4)-linked β-D-glucopyranosyl residues and (1→4)-linked β-D-mannopyranosyl residues. Cholesteryl succinate was linked to BSP to make it more amphiphilic and the degree of substitution of cholesteryl succinate-BSP was 3.2%. The critical micelle concentration of modified BSP was 0.001 mg/mL, suggesting it could self-assemble into nanoparticles in aqueous solution.
A Trustworthy Key Generation Prototype Based on DDR3 PUF for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Liu Wenchao , Zhang Zhenhua , Li Miaoxin , Liu Zhenglin
Published: June 2014

Secret key leakage in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is a high security risk especially when sensor nodes are deployed in hostile environment and physically accessible to attackers. With nowadays semi/fully-invasive attack techniques attackers can directly derive the cryptographic key from non-volatile memory (NVM) storage. Physically Unclonable Function (PUF) is a promising technology to resist node capture attacks, and it also provides a low cost and tamper-resistant key provisioning solution. In this paper, we designed a PUF based on double-data-rate SDRAM Type 3 (DDR3) memory by exploring its memory decay characteristics. We also described a prototype of 128-bit key generation based on DDR3 PUF with integrated fuzzy extractor. Due to the wide adoption of DDR3 memory in WSN, our proposed DDR3 PUF technology with high security levels and no required hardware changes is suitable for a wide range of WSN applications.
Relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility and Financial Performance in the Mineral Industry: Evidence from Chinese Mineral Firms
Authors: Pan Xiping , Sha Jinghua , Zhang Hongliang , Ke Wenlan
Published: June 2014

This paper examines the relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Corporate Financial Performance (CFP) using panel data for 228 Chinese mineral listed firms from 2010 to 2013 with Pooled Least Squares regression analysis. Our study considers five different sublevel CSR issues—shareholder responsibility, employee responsibility, environmental responsibility, public responsibility, and supplier, customer and consumer responsibility—in capturing the effects of CSR elements on CFP. The estimation results show the different effects of each sublevel CSR issue on CFP. Overall, shareholder, employee responsibility, environmental responsibility, supplier, customer and consumer responsibility have significant relationships with CFP, which are the stakeholders who have the closest linkage with firm operations. Meanwhile, public responsibility outside the firm does not show significant interaction with CFP, which is why many mineral firms ignore the public interest and this leads to conflicts. Shareholder responsibility has the most significant positive effect on CFP. Supplier, customer and consumer responsibility and environmental responsibility usually have negative effects on CFP as costs increase. Moreover, all 228 listed mineral firms that were selected in this paper have been classified into five sub-sectors: the extractive industry, metal fabrication industry, oil and gas industry, gas and water-related industry, and oil-producing equipment industry, based on the Industry Classification Benchmark (ICB). Our study shows that the differences in the relationship between CSR and CFP for five sublevel industries are due to industry characteristics. If the government wants to solve these conflicts and positively encourage firms to adopt CSR, it is necessary to create a mining development environment whereby firm profits are closely tied to CSR.
HYDRODYNAMIC INTERACTIONS BETWEEN SHIPS IN NARROW CHANNELS
Authors: Paulauskas Vytautas , Paulauskas Donatas , Maksimavičius Ričardas , Jonkus Martynas
Published: June 2014

Hydrodynamic interactions between ships in narrow channels are important for studying purposes and practical tasks. The paper presents a theoretical basis for the interaction between ships in narrow channels to evaluate reciprocal actions between ships, the experimental results of real ships and data received applying calibrated simulators. The theory and experimental results displayed in the paper could be used for designing channels and evaluating navigational safety in narrow channels as well as for ship steering tasks in narrow channels.
Mathematical Statistical Examinations on Script Relics
Authors: Hosszú Gábor
Published: June 2014

This chapter presents statistical evaluations of script relics. Its concept is exploiting mathematical statistical methods to extract hidden correlations among different script relics. Examining the genealogy of the graphemes of scripts is necessary for exploring the evolution of the writing systems, reading undeciphered inscriptions, and deciphering undeciphered scripts. The chapter focuses on the cluster analysis as one of the most popular mathematical statistical methods. The chapter presents the application of the clustering in the classification of Rovash (pronounced “rove-ash,” an alternative spelling: Rovas) relics. The various Rovash scripts were used by nations in the Eurasian Steppe and in the Carpathian Basin. The specialty of the Rovash paleography is that the Rovash script family shows a vital evolution during the last centuries; therefore, it is ideal to test the models of the evolution of the glyphs. The most important Rovash script is the Szekely-Hungarian Rovash. Cluster analysis algorithms are applied for determining the common sets among the significant Szekely-Hungarian Rovash alphabets. The determined Rovash relic ties prove the usefulness of the clustering methods in the Rovash paleography.
Experiments and Evaluation of Body Pressure Distribution on Wheelchair Cushion
Authors: Liu Ying , Zhang Xiu Feng , Ma Yan
Published: June 2014

To study the relationship between wheelchair cushion shape and seat cushion comfort. By measuring sitting pressure distributions on wheelchair cushions with different shape, indices of sitting pressure such as the contact area, maximum sitting pressure were discussed along with method for subjective evaluation and objective test combination to analyze the relationship between seat cushion shape and seat cushion comfort. The experimental results from subjective assessment on three kinds of seat cushion indicate that the cushion shape is an important factor affecting seating comfort .The experimental results from objective assessment indicate that the contact area and maximum sitting pressure can preferably reflect the comfort of seat cushion and be used to evaluate the comfort of seat cushion.
Research on Steam Discharge System Based on Pressure Control Mode
Authors: Zhang Yong Sheng , Tang Ying
Published: June 2014

In order to keep the balance of the inside and outside energy of steam power system, the main steam pressure must be effectively controlled under maneuvering condition or accident condition. A set of lumped parameter model of steam discharge system was established, its control system was designed based on the pressure control mode and the simulation of steam turbine trip accident condition was calculated. Result shows that the steam discharge control system could make the steam discharge valve open in time under accident condition. Some steam could be discharged into condenser directly through steam conditioning device. So the main steam pressure could be always maintained within normal range which improves the safety of steam turbine unit and the adaptability to steam load.
The Study on Photocatalytic Degradation of Methyl Orange Using SrFe0.5Co0.5O3-δ
Authors: Liu Fang Fang , Qiao Jun , Li Chao , Meng Hong Yan , Huang Xiang Hong
Published: June 2014

Perovskite oxides SrFe0.5Co0.5O3-δsample was synthesized by citrate method. The structures and morphology of materials were analyzed by XRD and SEM respectively. The powder sintered at 850°C was used as photocatalyst for degrading the methyl orange solution under a high pressure mercury 400W lamp. Some effects on the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange, such as the irradiation time, catalyst dose, initial concentration, pH value and H2O2were investigated in the process. The results showed the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of Methyl orange was up to 94.55% in 100 mL10 mg/L methyl orange solution containing 0.2 g catalyst for irradiation time of 120 min
Research on the Three-Dimensional Displaying of STL ASCII and Binary File
Authors: Zhang Ying , Shi Xin
Published: June 2014

Based on the detailed analysis of the STL file format, VC++ 6.0 programming language was used to extract the STL ASCII and binary file information, at the same time, using the OpenGL triangle drawing technology for graphical representation of the STL file, with rendering functions such as material, coordinate transformation, lighting, et al, finally realizing the loading and three-dimensional display of STL ASCII and binary file formats.
Thermodynamic Study of Iridium in HCl: The Effect of Concentration
Authors: Serrano López Sixto Sael , Reyes-Cruz Víctor Esteban , Hilda-Rios-Reyes Clara , Veloz Rodríguez María Aurora
Published: June 2014

In this work, the dissolution of iridium was studied through a thermodynamic theoretic study with different concentrations of hydrochloric acid (HCl) and Iridium (Ir). Three different acid conditions and three different concentrations of iridium were analyzed: 1, 0.1 and 0.01 M HCl and 0.86, 0.021 and 0.002 M of iridium. The system 1 M HCl was the only one that presented soluble species of Ir. Results showed that as the Ir concentration diminished from 0.86 to 0.002 M, the pH range where it is possible to obtain Ir soluble species, increased (from 0-1.2 to 0-2). The presence of two Ir species (valences III and IV) for 0.021M and 0.002 M Ir concentrations was determined from the Pourbaix diagrams; while for the 0.086 M concentration, only the Ir (IV) species was observed. The Pourbaix diagrams showed that it is possible to obtain the species iridium (IV) from a potential range of 0.823 V vs SHE to 1.422 V vs SHE and at a pH between 0 and 1.2 in the 1 M HC1 solution.
Bismuth and Gold Nanoparticles Prepared by Laser Ablation in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Escobar-Alarcón Luis , Velarde Granados Emmanuel , Villa Sanchez Diana , Olea-Mejia Oscar , Haro-Poniatowski Emmanuel , Arrieta Castañeda Alma , Solis-Casados Dora Alicia
Published: June 2014

The aim of this work is to report on the preparation of bismuth and gold nanoparticles ablating the corresponding target immersed in different liquid solutions: water and ethanol. The effect of the liquid environment and laser fluence used for ablation on the size and size distribution of the nanoparticles synthesized was investigated. The nanoparticle size was measured by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In general terms, for both metals, the results obtained reveal smaller sizes as low as approximately 2 nm. The bismuth nanoparticles, as deposited, are highly crystalline in nature and, depending on the conditions of preparation, either Bi or Bi2O3 nanoparticles are obtained in both liquids. UV-Vis measurements show the typical band absorption characteristic of spherical particles of nanometric size. It is worth mentioning that the gold colloids obtained using water are very stable.
Synthesis and Characterization of Azobenzene-Containing Polydiacetylene Polymers
Authors: Albarrán Preza Esthela , Vigueras-Santiago Enrique , Hernández López Susana
Published: June 2014

Polydiacetylenes are a type of highly conjugated polymers, and highly polar species are obtained when these polymers contain donor-acceptor azobenzene entities. In this paper the synthesis, characterization and evaluation of the dielectric constant of two polydiacetylenes containing azobenzenes as pendant groups are discussed. The Azobenzene chromophores are covalently bonded to the main chain, and their polarity is defined by an electro-donor (amine) and an electro-acceptor group (nitro or chlorine) bonded to the ends of a conjugated azobenzene structure. Both polymers were processed into plates of 1cm diameter x 0.674 mm thickness using a thermo mechanic technique. Their dielectric constants were evaluated respect to the temperature in a range of frequency of 110 MHz-1.32 GHz, from room temperature to close to their respective Tg. The dielectric constant for the polymer containing the nitro group was higher than it for polymer containing the chloride atom at all temperatures. It is discussed in terms of the ability to nitro and chloride to attract electronic density.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Bifunctional Monomers Derived from Post-Industrial PET as Crosslinking Agents for Acrylic Monomers
Authors: Cruz-Aguilar Antonio , Coreño-Alonso Juan , Herrera González Ana María
Published: June 2014

Two bifunctional monomers, bis (acryloxyethyl) terephthalate (BAOET) and bis (allyloxycarboniloxyethyl) terephthalate (BAOCOET), derived from PET waste were tested as crosslinking agents for acrylic and methacrylic acids (AA and MA, respectively). BAOET and BAOCOET were obtained from the reactions of acryloyl chloride and allyl chloroformate, respectively, with bis (hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET). This was obtained from the glycolysis of postindustrial PET with ethyleneglycol (EG). Both bifunctional monomers were characterized by NMR 1H. Polymerizations of BAOET and BAOCOET with the acrylic monomers were performed using bifunctional monomer to acrylic monomer weight ratios of 1:10, 1:2 and 1:1, for each of the four combinations, using 2 wt % of benzoyl peroxide (BPO) as thermal initiator. The obtained gel proportions of the crosslinked polymers were above 90% for most of the cases, requiring times from 10 to 60 min. For all of the experiments, complete double bond conversion was observed by FT-IR. Polymers showed thermal stabilities higher than 200°C.
Biocompatibility Evaluation of Co-Ribbons Prepared by Melt-Spinning
Authors: Alvarez-Perez Marco Antonio , García Hipólito Manuel , Alvarez-Fregoso Octavio , Juarez-Islas Julio Alberto
Published: June 2014

Ribbons of Co-base alloy were tested as biocompatible material at in vitro process to develop in the future an implant dental device. Regarding research on the effect of rapid solidification on Co-alloys, few or absent studies to date have been assessed for the evaluation of surfaces properties when the alloys are placed in contact with human mesenchyme stem cells (hMSC). The Co-based ribbons were prepared by rapid solidification process and its surface attached with human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells to determine it toxicity, cells viability, adhesive and proliferation of the cells. Experimental results showed that Co-based ribbons are non-toxic material with 80% of increased cellular adhesion and exhibited excellent biocompatibility.
Data Processing in Ecological Development and Environment Improvement by Analysis of the Relationship between Tourism Development and Urban Development
Authors: Nie Xiao Ying , Shi Pei Ji , Wang Xin Min
Published: June 2014

With the help of social-economy statistical data of Dunhuang City during 1987-2012, based on the related data processing technology, this paper measure the coordination between tourism development and urban development in Dunhuang City through TOPSIS evaluation method, and analyses the reasons of the coordinated development. Results show that the tourism development and urban development coordination is continuously increasing during the 1987-2012 of Dunhuang city, illustrate the development maintain a state of positive interaction and coordinated development. Dunhuang tourism development and urban development coordination optimization is closely relate to the development environmental and policy opportunities, and has great role in promoting Dunhuang ecological development and environmental improvement, just like the implement of the western development strategy, the Dunhuang water resources rational utilization and ecological protection planning and so on.
New Model for Knock Factors Optimization in Internal Combustion Engine (SI)
Authors: Witwit Azher Razzaq Hadi , Yasin Azman , Gitano Horizon , Yadav Tarun Kumar
Published: June 2014

The main goal of this paper is to construct a new mathematical model and study the behavior of the factors affecting the problem of knocking in internal combustion engines. Curve fitting technique was used in construction of the model, and also Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) was used as a test in choosing the best model. Factors affecting the problem of knocking have been identified through the use of test engine had promised to do so. The mathematical model was built through real data under certain conditions. Three influential factors (Temp., TPS and RPM) have been taken into consideration. Curve fitting models were used in achieving the goal and then studied the effect of one of the factors in the problem of knocking was investigated. Results obtained through the application of the new model is a low level knocking with increasing temperature (Temp) at the same points in Throttle (TPS), the Revolution Per Minute (RPM), which shows the effectiveness of the new model with non-linear behavior of the factors affecting the knock.
Optical Properties of Gallium Nitride Heterostructures Grown on Silicon for Waveguiding Application
Authors: Saraswati Irma , Stolz Arnaud , Ko S. , Dogheche Elhadj , Poespawati Nji Raden , Wigajatri Retno , Decoster Didier
Published: June 2014

Gallium nitride (GaN) on silicon (Si) is governed by the possibility to use this family of semiconductor for novel optoelectronic devices. GaN layers are deposited by MOCVD on silicon Si (111) using AlGaN buffer layer. We have studied the microstructure quality of the films. From SEM, TEM and AFM observations, we have observed that the films exhibit a good quality: the films are highly oriented (0001) with a smooth surface morphology (roughness of 12nm). We have completely characterized the optical properties using the prism coupling technique.
Knowledge Retention of Manufacturing Concepts in Short and Medium Term in Engineering Degrees
Authors: Serrano-Mira Julio , Abellan-Nebot José Vcte , Bruscas-Bellido Gracia M.
Published: June 2014

Subjects with manufacturing processes contents are part of most engineering degrees. These subjects are usually taught in halfway semesters and are of theoretical and practical nature. Very often students show problems to understand and retain the contents of these subjects, since most of those contents are frequently new and have not been addressed during secondary school. In this work, a study on students' level of comprehension and retention of manufacturing processes contents is presented. In order to analyze the learning process in the short and medium term, undergraduate and postgraduate students have been chosen. Moreover, possible lack of previous knowledge, degree of comprehension and retention and influence of the teaching modality (theoretical or practical) are also explored.