bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Product Pricing Using Fuzzy Logic Type-2
Authors: Purnomo Muhammad Ridwan Andi
Published: October 2015

The process of pricing a new product is quite challenging since it involves several factors which are blended with uncertainties caused by dynamic condition. The decision of product pricing will effect to the competition ability in the market. However, since the factors are blended with uncertainties, it is necessary to develop a system that could model the uncertainties for obtaining reasonable price. This study focuses on modelling the uncertainties using Fuzzy Logic Type-2 (FLT2). The reason of the use of FLT2 instead of FLT1 is because of the ability of FLT2 to cope with uncertainties better compared to the FLT1. This study refers to a previous study that was conducted by Haji and Assadi in 2009 in determining the factors that affect to a new product pricing. A new important factor that has not been considered in such study has been added in this study, which is product warranty. The result shows that the proposed FLT2 able to model uncertainties in product pricing and resulting reasonable price for a new product.
Review of Solar and Battery Power System Development for Solar-Powered Electric Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Rajendran Parvathy , Smith Howard
Published: October 2015

Electric unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems powered solely by battery cannot achieve long endurance. Despite recent improvements in battery technology, UAVs barely last for 4 hours, thereby decreasing the attractiveness of battery-powered UAVs. Progress has been made in developing hybrid-powered solar and battery systems for UAVs. However, the small number of solar UAVs developed indicates the research gap, particularly in the aspect of power system and integration. Accordingly, this paper provides a detailed review of solar cell and battery development applicable to small UAVs. This review includes the technologies of miniature electric motors, batteries, fuel cells, and solar cells. A comprehensive battery and solar cell technology trend is then discussed. This wok elucidates the effect of solar and battery technology progress on solar UAV development. The combination of electric motor, battery, and solar cells offers an excellent solution to the requirements of various long-endurance applications.
Characterisation of Moisture Absorption Effects on the Strength of Composite Materials
Authors: Wong King Jye , Israr Haris Ahmad , Tamin Mohd Nasir
Published: October 2015

In the present work, the variation of the tensile strengths of various polymers and polymer composites due to moisture ageing is investigated. The stacking sequences of the composites include 0o, 90o, ±45o and quasi-isotropic laminates. The variation in the strength of material is then fitted using a residual property model. Results show that the proposed model characterises well the variation in the strengths that exhibits a typical trend, where there is no obvious scattered data. In fibre dominated laminates (0o), the degradation parameter seems to be influenced by the type of material, whereas for matrix dominated laminates (90o), ageing temperature appears to be the dominant factor that affects the degradation trend. As for [±45]2S and adhesives, exponential decay trend is observed. This model could be further improved to include the material and temperature factors.
Effect of the Gel Coat Composition on the Tensile Strength for Glass Fibre Reinforced Polyester Composites
Authors: Ahmad Ahmad , Abdullah M.R. , Abd Kadir Ab. Saman
Published: October 2015

In this study, the effect of the gel coat composition on tensile strength of glass fibre reinforced polyester (GFRP) composites was evaluated. The experiments were conducted on various gel coat composition and time. Samples were immersed in sea and river water for 6 months to investigate the differences in tensile strength. Optical observation using SEM on the composites surface and comparative analysis in terms of tensile strength were used before and after immersing. As results, the most excellent tensile strength was the gel coat composition consisting of 0.3 kg of reolosil QS-102 with 10 kg of resin SHCP 268BQTN with a value of 51.9 MPa. Tensile strength reduced about 33.4 % compared to other sample where reduced to 46.3401 %. The difference in the composite surface as a result of immersion process on each sample was also discussed in this paper.
Comparison of Three-Parameter Weibull Statistical Analysis of the Flexural Strength of Dense and Porous Sintered Clay
Authors: Abubakar M. , Ahmad Norhayati
Published: October 2015

Reliability analysis of dense and porous sintered clay-based ceramic was compared using three-parameter Weibull model. The raw and the sintered clay at temperatures 900-1300°C were characterized using XRF and XRD. The raw clay (dense) and clay mixed with cassava starch (porous) were compacted and sintered at 1300°C. Flexural strength of the dense (24.11-46.56MPa) and the porous (13.58-23.26MPa) sintered clay were determined using three-point bending test. The results were analyzed by three-parameter Weibull probability distribution using Minitab 15 software at 95% confidence interval. Scale and threshold parameters of the dense sintered clay were higher than that of the porous sintered clay. However, the Weibull modulus of the porous ceramic was higher than the dense ceramic. The morphology of the porous sintered clay shows a relative distribution of porosity while the dense ceramic shows a random distribution of cracks. Three- parameter Weibull is a suitable tool to model the reliability of dense and porous sintered clays.
Mechanical Behavior Analysis of Apus Bamboo (Gygantochloa sp) Thin Plate Composite due to Adhesive Joint and Water Absorption Using Experimental and Finite Element Method
Authors: Mulyanto Achmad Ryan , Syamsudin Hendri , Widagdo Djarot
Published: October 2015

The mechanics of adhesive-lap joints of apus bamboo thin plate composite were investigated experimentally and numerically. Tensile load were applied to determine mechanical strength of adhesive joint overlaps. Modal analysis were employed to determine natural frequency of bamboo apus single-lap joint for different overlap and plate thickness configurations. This research found the strength of bamboo adhesive joints decreased 11% due to the effect of 24 hours water immersion. Natural frequencies of single-lap adhesive joint configuration were equivalently decreased in decreament of overlap joint and thickness plate. Finite element models using ABAQUS Software were developed for static and dynamic analysis and compared with the experimental results. Compared to experimental results, numerical analysis gives the prediction with 4% difference for the mean shear stress at failure, and 7-12% difference for the natural frequencies.
Analysis of Bending Loads on Bamboo-Balsa and Bamboo-Polypropylene Honeycomb Composite Sandwiches
Authors: Seno Aldyandra Hami , Koswara Eko , Syamsudin Hendri , Widagdo Djarot
Published: October 2015

This research was done to evaluate the bending behavior (load-deflection curve and failuremode) of sandwich structures using Tali Bamboo strips as sandwich skin material. Bending tests wereconducted on sandwich specimens with end grain balsa (3-point bending) and polypropylene (PP)honeycomb cores (4-point bending) to evaluate their bending behavior. From the test results,analytical and numerical models were developed to simulate the observed bending behavior. Themodels are able to simulate the pre-failure bending behavior and failure modes (core shear failure) ofthe specimens. It is also shown that for thin (length/thickness > 20) sandwiches the models are moreaccurate since shear effects are less prominent. With the obtained models a predictive comparison isdone between the PP and balsa cored specimens since the testing configuration for each type wasdifferent. The analysis results show that balsa cored specimens are able to withstand higher transversebending loads due to the higher shear strength of the balsa core. These prediction results are to beproven by specimen testing which is the subject of future research.
Roflumilast: the fourth Mousquetaire in COPD pharmacological treatment
Authors: Balbi Bruno
Published: October 2015

-
A case report of roflumilast in an elderly COPD patient: improving exercise capacity to improve quality of life
Authors: Parola Daniela , Castagnacci Ambra , Salvati Sara
Published: October 2015

This report describes a case of a 73-year-old man with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) grade D. His walking abilities were seriously compromised due to chronic respiratory failure and arthrosis causing chronic joint pain. The patient frequently experienced exacerbation events, requiring hospitalization. After roflumilast therapy was started, the patient gradually regained the ability to move autonomously, and FEV1 values gradually increased too. This led to a general improvement of the patient’s quality of life (QoL), underlining how important movement abilities are in determining a patient’s QoL and how roflumilast therapy is effective in improving exercise capacity in a patient with COPD.
TBNA for the treatment of non complicated bronchogenic cyst
Authors: Andreani A. , Cappiello G. , Valli M. , Giovannini M.
Published: October 2015

Not available.
Emergency reversal of vitamin-K antagonists related over-anticoagulation: case report and brief overview on the role of Prothrombin Complex Concentrate
Authors: Di Fusco Stefania Angela , Aspromonte Nadia , Aquilani Stefano , Mele Luca , Colivicchi Furio
Published: October 2015

Oral anticoagulation is a widely used treatment and atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent indication. We review the therapeutic options on an important clinical challenge: rapid reversal anticoagulation in the setting of an urgent invasive procedure. We report a case of a 71-year-old man treated with warfarin who was over-anticoagulated when presented to the emergency department for syncope due to severe bradiarrhythmia and needed temporary pacing. Intravenous infusion of vitamin-k was not adequate for rapid reversal over anticoagulation whereas the administration of a Prothrombin Complex Concentrate (PCC) was able to quickly reverse anticoagulant activity and allowed the performance of an urgent invasive procedure without hemorrhagic complication. The aim of this paper is to draw attention to possible therapeutic strategies to reduce the risk of bleeding related to over-anticoagulation with vitamin-K antagonists (VKAs) in case of urgent invasive procedure, emphasizing the role of PCC in keeping with national and international guidelines.
Nonbacterial Thrombotic Endocarditis in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Piovanelli Barbara , Rovetta Riccardo , Bonadei Ivano , Vizzardi Enrico , D’Aloia Antonio , Metra Marco
Published: October 2015

Nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE), known as marantic endocarditis, is a phenomenon due to hypercoagulability with a complex pathogenesis. Originally described by Ziegler, the lesions of NBTE were considered to be fibrin thrombi deposited on normal or superficially degenerated cardiac valves [1]. Numerous reports have identified the relationship between NBTE and a variety of different inflammatory states, including chronic diseases like malignancy and autoimmune disease [2, 3]. NBTE is a serious manifestation of prothtombotic state that is characterized by the deposition of thrombi on previously undamaged heart valves in the absence of a bloodstream bacterial infection and by the increased frequency of arterial embolic events in patients with chronic debilitating diseases. Although hypercoagulability is often seen in patients with pancreatic cancer, NBTE has rarely been reported antemortem. We report a case of marantic endocarditis in patient with pancreatic cancer, in which neurological symptoms preceded the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.
Erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease: Focus on
Authors: F.E. Pedretti Roberto , Gabriele Michele , Masnaghetti Sergio , Faggiano Pompilio
Published: October 2015

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common clinical problem and its prevalence increases in frequency with age. ED is a risk marker for major cardiovascular events independently of other more common risk factors in men with and without known cardiovascular disease. On the basis of the “artery-size hypothesis” patients with cardiovascular disease often report ED before disease detection, in average 3 years. Thus, by an early identification of ED, the cardiologist is given a unique opportunity to better assess the cardiovascular risk of each patient. Although there is a general impression that ED has an important predictive role, its diagnosis in clinical practice is widely suboptimal owing to misconceptions from the side of the patient and a suboptimal management of the personal relationship from the side of the physician. This paper explores the critical connection between ED and cardiovascular disease and evaluates how this association may influence clinical practice.
Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Cardiac Rehabilitation: a new field of interest
Authors: Ambrosetti Marco , Malfatto Gabriella , Cremona Anna Maria , Arca Marcello , Faggiano Pompilio
Published: October 2015

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a frequently undiagnosed genetic disease characterized by substantial elevations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). The prevalence of heterozygous FH (HeFH) in the general population is 1:500 inhabitants, while the prevalence of homozygous FH (HoFH) is 1:1.000.000. If FH is not identified and aggressively treated at an early age, affected individuals have a 20-fold increased lifetime risk of coronary heart disease compared with the general population. This narrative review provide a concise overview of recommendations for diagnosis and treatment of adults and children with FH, and discuss the utility of considering FH as a comorbidity at the entry of Cardiac Rehabilitation programmes.
An unusual case of myocardial infarction
Authors: Rovetta Riccardo , Vizzardi Enrico , D’Aloia Antonio , Bonadei Ivano , Sciatti Edoardo , Metra Marco
Published: October 2015

Myocardial infarction may be the result of embolism of calcified material from the aortic valve or thrombotic formations adhering to the same. We report a case of late myocardial infarction secondary to embolization from a thrombus adherent to the aortic valve jutting out in the ostium of the left main coronary artery. Keywords: Myocardial infarction, thrombotic
Nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) and risk of cardiovascular events. Literature review and clinical implications
Authors: Temporelli Pier Luigi , Zito Giovanni Battista , Pedretti Roberto Franco , Belisarii Francesco Iachini , Putortì Giuseppe , Faggiano Pompilio
Published: October 2015

Non steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are largely used for treatment of acute and chronic pain, even for long periods of time (months or years). While it is known that their use is frequently associated with gastrointestinal damage, including major bleedings from peptic ulcer, the risk of cardiovascular events related to NSAID has received much less attention. However, there is a large body of evidence showing that NSAIDs (both “traditional”, such as diclofenac or indobufen, and selective cyclooxygenase inhibitors, COX-2) are associated with a significant increase of risk of cardiovascular events, both fatal and nonfatal. Consequently, several options have been proposed for the treatment of pain, including the use of analgesic drugs with different mechanisms of action, such as the opiates. Of interest, the Italian Drug Agency (AIFA) published a few years ago a warning (Nota 66) on the careful prescription of NSAIDs in patients with overt heart disease, such as coronary artery disease and heart failure. Aim of this paper is to present the current status of knowledge on the proper use of NSAIDs and other analgesic drugs in the management of acute and chronic pain.
Article Commentary: The Genetic Architecture of Domestication in Animals
Authors: Wright Dominic
Published: October 2015

Domestication has been essential to the progress of human civilization, and the process itself has fascinated biologists for hundreds of years. Domestication has led to a series of remarkable changes in a variety of plants and animals, in what is termed the “domestication phenotype.” In domesticated animals, this general phenotype typically consists of similar changes in tameness, behavior, size/morphology, color, brain composition, and adrenal gland size. This domestication phenotype is seen in a range of different animals. However, the genetic basis of these associated changes is still puzzling. The genes for these different traits tend to be grouped together in clusters in the genome, though it is still not clear whether these clusters represent pleiotropic effects, or are in fact linked clusters. This review focuses on what is currently known about the genetic architecture of domesticated animal species, if genes of large effect (often referred to as major genes) are prevalent in driving the domestication phenotype, and whether pleiotropy can explain the loci underpinning these diverse traits being colocated.
Machine Learning Methods for Predicting HLA-Peptide Binding Activity
Authors: Luo Heng , Ye Hao , Ng Hui Wen , Shi Lemming , Tong Weida , Mendrick Donna L. , Hong Huixiao
Published: October 2015

As major histocompatibility complexes in humans, the human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) have important functions to present antigen peptides onto T-cell receptors for immunological recognition and responses. Interpreting and predicting HLA-peptide binding are important to study T-cell epitopes, immune reactions, and the mechanisms of adverse drug reactions. We review different types of machine learning methods and tools that have been used for HLA-peptide binding prediction. We also summarize the descriptors based on which the HLA-peptide binding prediction models have been constructed and discuss the limitation and challenges of the current methods. Lastly, we give a future perspective on the HLA-peptide binding prediction method based on network analysis.
Emerging Novel Therapies for Heart Failure
Authors: Szema Anthony M. , Dang Sophia , Li Jonathan C.
Published: October 2015

Heart function fails when the organ is unable to pump blood at a rate proportional to the body's need for oxygen or when this function leads to elevated cardiac chamber filling pressures (cardiogenic pulmonary edema). Despite our sophisticated knowledge of heart failure, even so-called ejection fraction-preserved heart failure has high rates of mortality and morbidity. So, novel therapies are sorely needed. This review discusses current standard therapies for heart failure and launches an exploration into emerging novel treatments on the heels of recently-approved sacubitril and ivbradine. For example, Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) is protective of the heart, so in the absence of VIP, VIP knockout mice have dysregulation in key heart failure genes: 1) Force Generation and Propagation; 2) Energy Production and Regulation; 3) Ca+2Cycling; 4) Transcriptional Regulators. VIP administration leads to coronary dilation in human subjects. In heart failure patients, VIP levels are elevated as a plausible endogenous protective effect. With the development of elastin polymers to stabilize VIP and prevent its degradation, VIP may therefore have a chance to satisfy the unmet need as a potential treatment for acute heart failure.
Beta-Adrenergic Blockade Therapy for Autonomic Dysfunction is Less Effective for Elderly Patients with Heart Failure and Reduced Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction
Authors: Shimamoto Ken , Kawana Masatoshi
Published: October 2015

Objective

Heart rate variability (HRV) has been reported to be an independent predictor of all-cause and sudden cardiac death in patients with heart failure. In the aging heart, however, both autonomic and cardiac functions appear to be altered. We assessed the relationship between aging and responsiveness of HRV and ventricular remodeling to beta-adrenergic blockade therapy in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFREF).

Methods

Twenty-eight clinically stable patients with chronic heart failure, sinus rhythm, and left ventricular ejection fraction <50% as confirmed by echocardiography were included. At baseline and after carvedilol treatment, 24-hour ambulatory Holter monitor recording was used to analyze HRV indices by the maximum entropy method. Changes in these parameters were compared among three age groups.

Results

HR decreased in all groups after carvedilol treatment, but was still highest in the youngest group despite the same treatment doses. Time and frequency domain variables improved. The response of time domain variables (the standard deviation of all normal sinus to normal sinus [NN] intervals and the standard deviation of the averages of NN intervals in all 5-minute or 30-minute segments) to carvedilol therapy significantly decreased with increasing age. Ventricular reverse remodeling induced by carvedilol therapy significantly decreased with increasing age. Increases in time domain variables and a low-frequency domain moderately correlated with left ventricular reverse remodeling.

Conclusion

Beta-adrenergic blockade therapy improved HRV variables and ventricular remodeling in HFREF patients; however, the response tended to be milder in the elderly. HRV improvement was associated with ventricular reverse remodeling.
A Blended Approach to Learning in an Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Program: Proof of Concept
Authors: Taylor Funminiyi A. , Nelson Erica , Delfino Kristin , Han Heeyoung
Published: October 2015

Problem

Graduate medical education programs are expected to educate residents to be able to manage critically ill patients. Most obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) graduate medical education programs provide education primarily in a didactic format in a traditional face-to-face setting. Busy clinical responsibilities tend to limit resident engagement during these educational sessions. The revision of the training paradigm to a more learner-centered approach is suggested.

Intervention

A blended learning education program was designed and implemented to facilitate the teaching and learning of obstetric emergencies, specifically diabetic ketoacidosis and acute-onset severe hypertension in pregnancy. The program incorporated tools to foster a community of inquiry. Multimedia presentations were also utilized as the main modality to provide instruction. The blended learning course was designed in accordance with the cognitive theory of multimedia learning.

Context

This intervention was carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Southern Illinois University. All 15 OB/GYN residents were enrolled in this course as part of their educational curriculum. First, face-to-face instructions were given in detail about the blended learning process, course content, and online website. The residents were then assigned tasks related to completing the online component of the course, including watching multimedia presentations, reading the resources placed online, and participating in online asynchronous discussions. The course culminated with a face-to-face session to clarify misconceptions. Pre- and postcourse quizzes were administered to the residents to assess their retention and understanding.

Outcome

Objective analysis demonstrated significant improvements in retention and understanding after participating in the course. The blended learning format was well received by the residents. Resident perception of social presence in the asynchronous online discussions was demonstrative of low scores relating to peer-to-peer interaction. The multimedia presentations and the availability of learning resources were well received.

Lessons Learned

Outcomes of this study suggest that blended learning is a viable tool to support teaching and learning of obstetric emergencies in an OB/GYN residency program.
Vannellid Species Isolated from Freshwater Source in a Park in Jamaica, West Indies
Authors: Todd Cheridah D. , Reyes-Batlle María , Valladares Basilio , Lindo John F. , Lorenzo-Morales Jacob
Published: October 2015

Free-living amoebae (FLA) occupy a wide range of freshwater, marine, and soil habitats, and are opportunistic pathogens in human beings. While Acanthamoeba spp., Naegleria fowleri, and Balamuthia mandrillaris are well-known opportunistic organisms, Vannella epipetala is nonpathogenic. Sediments were collected from a freshwater source from a park in Jamaica to investigate the presence of FLA. Acanthamoeba and Naegleria spp. were not recovered; however, a Vannellid species identified by microscopy and PCR analysis as V. epipetala was isolated. These nonpathogens pose a threat to human beings as they may act as Trojan horses for microsporidian parasites and other pathogens, thereby facilitating their transmission to human beings.
Assessment of Manual, Automatic and Continuously Variable Transmission Powertrains for Gasoline Engine Powered Midsize Saloon Vehicle
Authors: Mohamed Eid S. , Khalil Mohamed I. , Abouel-Seoud Shawki A.
Published: October 2015

Modern integrated powertrains allow great scope for improvements in driveability, emissions and fuel consumption by optimizing the engine speed and load selection to deliver the demanded power. The aim of this study is to assess the exhaust emissions, road performance, road acceleration and fuel consumption of gasoline engine powered vehicle. The proposed emission index and fuel consumption rate are verified through chassis dynamometer tests using the urban part of European drive cycle (ECE-15). A midsize saloon vehicle equipped with an integrated gasoline engine with manual transmission (MT), automatic transmission (AT) and continuously variable transmission (CVT) powertrains. The results indicate that most of the carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and unburned hydrocarbons emission, driveability and fuel consumption rate were improved for the CVT powertrains.
A Theoretical Method for Structural Design and Analysis of Crankshafts
Authors: Baragetti Sergio
Published: October 2015

The crankshaft is the crucial mechanical component in many machines and engines and its fatigue assessment is often very time consuming and expensive. The machine designer usually needs a simple theoretical model that would allow choosing the best material and the dimensions of the component in a quick and reliable way. The numerical finite element simulation of crankshafts should follow the first step of theoretical dimensioning with the aim of evaluating the stress-strain behaviour at the notched area to verify the component against fatigue failure. The development of an intermediate theoretical model would prove effective to reduce the time needed to reach a second approximation design of the crankshaft. The aim of this paper is to give the designer a theoretical procedure that allows determining the strain and stress state for verification of crankshafts. The model was developed in the case of crankshafts with two connecting rods and validated by means of numerical finite element modelling and analysis.
Design Evaluation of Chassis Mounted Platform for Off-Road Wheeled Heavy Vehicles
Authors: Deulgaonkar Vikas R. , Matani Ashok G. , Kallurkar Shrikant P.
Published: October 2015

Chassis mounted platform is an intermediate component between vehicle chassis and shelter,and acts as a levelled base for shelters. Platform transfers and sustains unevenness in load arising from the road or soil irregularities during vehicle travel in rough terrains. Present work deals with development, evaluation and improvement of one such platform. In this work, the platform under consideration is designed to accommodate two shelters, each being secured to the platform using standard twist locking arrangements. Securing locations are dependent on the size and weight of the commodity to be placed inside the shelter. Major design modifications of the platform include nature and pattern of load, flange orientations of channel sections, span between webs of adjacent channels, axle load distribution and vehicle geometry constraints as ground clearance and departure angle. Hand calculations, computer aided design and finite element analysis are carried to evaluate the stress and deflection for different platform configurations. Road profiles for platform analysis include rough road and cross-country terrains. Experimental strain measurement at critical locations on the platform is carried out to evaluate the performance of the platform under specified load-speed conditions. Mathematical relation between experimental stress values and strain gauge locations on the platform is developed for different load magnitudes and loading patterns.
Effect of Multiple Location Defects on the Dynamics of Draft Gear used in Freight Railway Wagon
Authors: Harak Sachin S. , Sharma Satish C. , Shukla Sanjay , Gupta Parinay , Kumar Sanjay , Harsha Suraj P.
Published: October 2015

The present work investigates the effect of crack location on the modal frequency of draft gear used in autocouplers of freight railway wagon for various orientations. First seven mode shapes of a healthy draft gear have been determined using finite element approach. Defect of semi-elliptical shape is modelled in the lateral as well as longitudinal direction of the draft pad which is a component of draft gear. Various damage scenarios have been simulated by considering multiple locations of the crack in the draft gear for different orientations. Effect of crack orientation and defective pads location on the natural frequency of draft gear is analysed. It is seen that for single defective pad as well as multiple defective pads, the natural frequency of draft gear is dependent on the dynamics of draft pad. It is also observed that defect in consecutive pads causes more change in frequency as compared to single defective pad. As far as the location of defective pad is concerned, it is seen that the draft gear frequency is more sensitive to defective pads located either near the housing base plate or top follower. This study provides a tool to diagnose crack defect in draft gear based on vibration characteristics.
Direct Injection Diesel Engine Performance Improvement and Emission Control using Boost Pressure
Authors: Senthil R. , Silambarasan R. , Pranesh G.
Published: October 2015

The present investigation is to analyse the influence of boost pressure and injection pressure on combustion process and emissions for various engine loads and speeds. A single cylinder diesel engine that is equipped with a manual direct injection system is considered for the experimental work. Emissions such as HC, NOx and brake specific fuel consumption were monitored using gas analyzer. A turbocharger and dilution tunnel is designed such a way that a boost pressure will be created from the compressor driven turbine using engine exhaust. The compressed air was mixed with the exhaust gas in the dilution tunnel to oxidize the hydrogen and carbon into water vapour and carbon dioxide.
Simulation of Electrical Actuator and Air Spring Actuator Controlled Suspension Systems for Automotive Vehicles
Authors: Sathishkumar P. , Jancirani J. , John D. , Arun B.
Published: October 2015

This article discusses methods to reduce the acceleration of a vehicle and increase its road holding ability. In the simulation using quarter car model, electric actuator and air spring based actuator are used as the main control elements. A three degrees of freedom system model is used in which the parameters for the tire, vehicle body and seat are considered. The required actuator force is calculated by a standard fuzzy controller. For analysing the performance of active suspension system, body acceleration and velocity are given as inputs to the controller according to ISO specified standards. Accelerations of the seat and vehicle body are used to judge the performance of the system.
'Unconscionable and irrational': SAPS human resource allocation
Authors: Redpath Jean , Nagia-Luddy Fairouz
Published: October 2015

The Khayelitsha Commission revealed that areas that are predominantly populated by people who are poor and black are systematically allocated only a small fraction of the average per capita allocation of police personnel in the Western Cape. These areas also suffer among the highest rates of murder and serious violent crime in the province. The allocation of human resources to policing impinges on various constitutional rights. Given the inequity and irrationality apparent in the allocation of police personnel, the Khayelitsha Commission recommended that this method be urgently revised. This article reviews the evidence heard on the allocations and the method currently used to allocate police personnel, suggests an alternative method, and calls on the government to heed the recommendation of the Khayelitsha Commission that the state urgently revise its method of allocation of policing resources.
Interview with Judge Kate O'Regan
Authors: Van der Spuy Elrena
Published: October 2015

In August 2012 Kate O'Regan, a former judge of the South African Constitutional Court, was appointed by the premier of the Western Cape to head the Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of Police Inefficiency and a Breakdown in Relations between SAPS and the Community in Khayelitsha. Two years later, on 25 August 2014, the commission submitted its final report and recommendations. In this exchange O'Regan reflects from the inside out on some aspects of the public inquiry into policing in Khayelitsha. Here one finds reference to judicial independence and organisational autonomy of commissions of inquiry; the value of comparative lesson drawing for process design; the importance of creating safe spaces for all participants; and honouring the contributions of participants. Policing, O'Regan concludes, is a truly challenging enterprise. Both political and police leadership carry a moral responsibility to engage systemic and other challenges as identified in both of the Marikana and Khayelitsha reports. Not to do so would imply the abdication of responsibility to address the safety and security concerns of South African citizens.
Investigating the discrepancy between wet-suspension- and dry-dispersion-derived ice nucleation efficiency of mineral particles
Authors: Emersic C. , Connolly P. J. , Boult S. , Campana M. , Li Z.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. Cloud chamber investigations into ice nucleation by mineral particles were compared with results from cold-stage droplet freezing experiments. Kaolinite, NX-illite, and K-feldspar were examined, and K-feldspar was revealed to be the most ice-active mineral particle sample, in agreement with recent cold-stage studies. The ice nucleation efficiencies, as quantified using the ice-active surface site density method, were found to be in agreement with previous studies for the lower temperatures; however, at higher temperatures the efficiency was between a factor of 10 and 1000 higher than those inferred from cold-stage experiments. Numerical process modelling of cloud formation during the experiments, using the cold-stage-derived parameterisations to initiate the ice phase, revealed the cold-stage-derived parameterisations to consistently underpredict the number of ice crystals relative to that observed. We suggest the reason for the underestimation of ice in the model is that the slope of the cold-stage-derived ice-active surface site density vs. temperature curves are too steep, which results in an underestimation of the number of ice crystals at higher temperatures during the expansion. These ice crystals suppress further freezing due to the Bergeron–Findeison process. A coagulation model was used to investigate the idea that the mineral particles coagulate in suspension. This model suggests that coagulation during the experiments may be sufficient to significantly remove the particles for the suspension by sedimentation or reduce the total particle surface area available for ice nucleation to take place. Aggregation was confirmed to take place in mineral suspensions using dynamic light-scattering measurements. However, it is not proven that aggregation of the mineral particles is able to reduce the surface area available for ice nucleation. The implication is that the mineral particles may be more important at nucleating ice at high temperatures than previously thought.
Earthquake impact on settlements: the role of urban and structural morphology
Authors: Bostenaru Dan M. , Armas I.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. This study is aimed to create an alternative to the classical GIS representation of the impact of earthquake hazards on urban areas. To accomplish this, the traditional map was revised, so that it can cope with contemporary innovative ways of planning, namely strategic planning. As in the theory of fractals, the building dimension and the urban neighbourhood dimension are addressed as different geographic scales between which lessons for decisions can be learned through regression. The interaction between the two scales is useful when looking for alternatives, for the completion of a GIS analysis, and in choosing the landmarks, which, in the case of hazards, become strategic elements in strategic planning. A methodology to innovate mapping as a digital means for analysing and visualising the impact of hazards is proposed. This method relies on concepts from various geography, urban planning, structural engineering and architecture approaches related to disaster management. The method has been tested at the building scale for the N–S Boulevard in Bucharest, Romania, called Magheru. At the urban scale, an incident database has been created, in which the case study for the building level can be mapped. The paper presented is part of a larger research work, which addresses decision making using the framework shown here. The main value of the paper is in proposing a conceptual framework to deconstruct the map for digital earthquake disaster impact analysis and representation. The originality of the concept consists in the representation of elements at different scales considered to be of different levels of importance in the urban tissue, according to the analysis to be performed on them.
CEO Succession, Investor Expectations, and Real Earnings Management
Authors: Young Chaur-Shiuh , Lin Yueh-Ju , Chien Fei-Liang , Chen Chia-Hui
Published: October 2015

Recently, U.S. firms are switching CEO at the fastest pace and these events often cause severe stock market volatility on the uncertainty of the firm’s future performance. This study investigates whether inverse market reaction on CEO succession will induce earnings management of new CEOs in order to protect their reputational and career prospects. From a sample of 2,418 firm-years during the post-SOX period of 2003 to 2012 by applying the regression analysis, we investigate two associations of real earnings management (REM) with CEO successions and with its market reaction respectively. Our results suggest new CEOs are more careful when manipulate earnings through REM activities. However, REM is negatively associated with market expectations on CEO successions, implying new CEOs may utilize REM to reverse the first bad impressions held by investors. We provide a new perspective with regard to market reactions to CEO successions, by examining how and why new CEOs may choose to manipulate earnings.
Deficits, Elitism, Fears (DEF) and the Eastern Caribbean English Language Teacher
Authors: L. Denny Stacy
Published: October 2015

This is a qualitative research study underpinned by a constructivist philosophy. In this study I collect data by means of questionnaires and interviews primarily. The questionnaire responses however serve as additional voices to the interviews rather than as statistical information. The sample is purposive, comprising 14 questionnaire respondents and 4 interviewees, with whom I sought to explore the challenges they encountered as they taught Anglophone Caribbean students standard English (SE). I also attempted to understand the reasons for these challenges, as well as try to establish, from these teachers, the appropriate strategies for addressing these issues. I discovered that the teachers primarily blame students for the challenges they face professionally; yet irreconcilably, they advocate addressing these challenges by implementing strategies aimed at improving the teacher and teaching. I therefore concluded that between the premises and conclusions teachers make about language learning and teaching lay many contradictions, contradictions which I term DEF, an acronym for issues relating to deficits/diversity, elitism and fear, as well as a pun on the word ‘deaf’- the inability or unwillingness to hear what contradicts their beliefs about language learning and teaching for fear of processing what the reality might mean.
Teacher and Learner Views on Effective English Teaching in the Thai Context: The Case of Engineering Students
Authors: Meksophawannagul Mantana
Published: October 2015

This study aimed at investigating the characteristics of effective English teachers and students as perceived by 35 teachers and 613 students, as well as according to the surveys regarding the English-teaching problems in Thailand. The instruments included two questionnaires on the characteristics of effective teachers and students as perceived by teachers and students, based on five categories: rapport, delivery, fairness, knowledge and creditability, organization and preparation. The questionnaire responses were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively.

The quantitative data revealed that for the teachers the most important attribute was organization and preparation attributes such as teaching preparation and the use of effective teaching methodology. The qualitative data revealed that the rapport items were important, especially that the teacher should be patient, not insult the students, and give clear advice. However, the students gave more weight to such rapport items as, for example, the teacher having a positive attitude toward to the students and being helpful, generous and caring about them. The qualitative data also revealed that well-prepared lessons and providing fun activities were mostly required for effective teachers. English teaching problems involve four aspects: teachers, learners, English learning content, and other factors. Discussion and the recommendations of the study are included.
Synthesis and Spectroscopic Properties of 2,3-Diphenyl-1,3-thiaza-4-one Heterocycles
Authors: Silverberg Lee , Pacheco Carlos , Lagalante Anthony , Cannon Kevin , Bachert Joshua , Xie Yiwen , Baker Lucas , Bayliff J.
Published: October 2015

Synthetic and spectroscopic data (1H NMR, 13C NMR, IR, UV/Vis) for a series of six 2,3-diphenyl-1,3-thiaza-4-one heterocycles which differ in ring size and substitution is reported. The results show that there are significant differences in spectroscopic signals common to all six compounds. Distinctions can be made among the compounds using the IR absorbance of the C4 carbonyl and the 1H NMR signal at C2, and to a lesser extent the 13C NMR signal at C4 and the UV/Vis spectrum.{The equation can be found in the PDF file}.
Shocks and Stocks: A Bottom-up Assessment of the Relationship Between Oil Prices, Gasoline Prices and the Returns of Chinese Firms
Authors: Broadstock David C. , Fan Ying , Ji Qiang , Zhang Dayong
Published: October 2015

Oil price shocks are known to affect the financial sector of the economy, due to the inflationary effects, and increasing costs of doing business they create. Though oil-shocks and financial markets are widely researched, there remains scope for deeper understanding using firm level data. We therefore contribute to the literature by extending widely applied multi-factor asset pricing models to a sample of 963 Chinese firms (between 2005-2013) to (i) systematically evaluate their reactions to oil price shocks, and (ii) further include regulated gasoline prices as a more direct measure of the energy-prices faced by firms. 89.2% of firms are susceptible to oil shocks, with positive and negative reactions observed even for firms within the same industry. Gasoline price shocks are more pervasive, affecting 95.7% of firms. Considering oil and gasoline separately allows us to review gasoline price regulation in China, which ultimately appears ineffective in achieving its intended goals.
Willingness to Pay for Climate Change Mitigation: Evidence from China
Authors: Li Yujie , Mu Xiaoyi , Schiller Anita , Zheng Baowei
Published: October 2015

China has become the largest emitter of carbon dioxide in the world. However, the Chinese public’s willingness to pay (WTP) for climate change mitigation is, at best, under-researched. This study draws upon a large national survey of Chinese public cognition and attitude towards climate change and analyzes the determinants of consumers’ WTP for energy-efficient and environment-friendly products. Eighty-five percent of respondents indicate that they are willing to pay at least 10 percent more than the market price for these products. The econometric analysis indicates that income, education, age and gender, as well as public awareness and concerns about climate change are significant factors influencing WTP. Respondents who are more knowledgeable and more concerned about the adverse effect of climate change show higher WTP. In comparison, income elasticity is small. The results are robust to different model specifications and estimation techniques.
Practical Applications in Immunohistochemistry: Carcinomas of Unknown Primary Site
Authors: Kandalaft Patricia L. , Gown Allen M.
Published: October 2015

Context.—Identification of the site of origin of carcinoma of unknown primary using immunohistochemistry is a frequent requirement of anatomic pathologists. Diagnostic accuracy is crucial, particularly in the current era of targeted therapies and smaller sample sizes.

Objectives.—To provide practical guidance and suggestions for classifying carcinoma of unknown primary using both proven and new antibodies, as well as targeting panels based on integration of morphologic and clinical features.

Data Sources.—Literature review, the authors' practice experience, and authors' research.

Conclusions.—With well-performed and interpreted immunohistochemistry panels, anatomic pathologists can successfully identify the site of origin of carcinoma of unknown primary. It is crucial to understand not only the diagnostic uses of the many available antibodies but also the potential limits and pitfalls.