bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organizational values and the implications for mainstreaming climate adaptation in Dutch municipalities: using Q methodology
Authors: Uittenbroek Caroline J. , Janssen-Jansen Leonie B. , Spit Tejo J. M. , Runhaar Hens A. C.
Published: September 2014

Mainstreaming climate adaptation requires the inclusion of climate adaptation in the policies of various policy domains such as water management and spatial planning. This paper investigates the organizational values present in several municipal policy departments in order to explore their willingness to act upon climate adaptation and the implications for mainstreaming. Q methodology, supplemented by interviews and focus groups, applied in three major Dutch municipalities – Amsterdam, The Hague and Rotterdam – reveals three value patterns: (1) start today; (2) not for us to lead; and (3) shared responsibility. These different value patterns indicate that there is a general agreement on the problem, impacts and solutions, but disagreement on the time frame for action and the allocation of resources. Although all three value patterns are present within departments in each municipality, different value patterns prevail in each municipality. Additionally, the analysis shows barriers as well as opportunities for mainstreaming. A lack of political commitment and leadership, and unsupportive organizational structures, create barriers. In spite of this, there is willingness to act and strategic framing is applied to gain acceptance for the mainstreaming of climate adaptation.
Water and climate variability in developing countries: the case of Uganda
Authors: Baguma David , Loiskandl Willibald , Hashim Jamal H. , Hashim Zailina
Published: September 2014

Water safety and climate mitigation measures are global concerns. In this study, climate variability and related health implications were examined. The data included 11,101 outpatient records in the Luwero district from the Ugandan Ministry of Health database, the records of 2,358 outpatients connected with water-related health risks linked to climate variability (diseases such as cholera, typhoid, acute diarrhoea and dysentery) from seven sub-county health centres, monthly mean rainfall data for 30 years (1977–2007), and information from 90 households that harvest rainwater near the local health units. Using a logistic regression, the analysis controlled for the following list of social factors that potentially influence capabilities: personal characteristics (education), cultural norms, the capacity to cope with shocks, seasonal variation, societal favouritism and community segregation. Integrated water management, man-made induced activities and information on effects of climate variability were important in mitigation planning. Young people, including those under the age of 18, were significantly more vulnerable than people of other ages to water-related health risks linked to climate variability. Although both the young and the elderly are susceptible to waterborne illnesses, the findings reveal a link to climate variability, which is inadequately emphasised. We recommend persistence in climate mitigation measures and control against water-related risks.
Central Asian irrigation sector in a climate change context: some reflections
Authors: Rakhmatullaev Shavkat , Abdullaev Iskandar
Published: September 2014

According to expert opinion, the Central Asian region is likely to experience climate-induced changes with the irrigation sector being the most vulnerable to any change. Climate change impacts are interconnected with land use and socio-economic changes, and many other processes of a human–environmental system. Assessment and adequate information sharing play a critical role in decision making for planning, and allocation of resources for the successful implementation of the adaptation measures. However, a successful adaptation is only possible if the interests of stakeholders and, to a large extent, communities vulnerable to the risks of climate change are provided for. This paper discusses specific assessment of potential impacts of climate change in the water sector, namely on electric pump-lifted irrigation facilities and water reservoirs in Central Asia.
Absence of Positive Results for Flexible Assertive Community Treatment. What is the next Approach?
Authors: Nordén Tommy , Norlander Torsten
Published: September 2014

Aims were to review results of the five psychiatric studies on Flexible Assertive Community Treatment (FACT) published during 2007-2013, and to compare FACT with Resource-group Assertive Community Treatment (RACT) which specifically focuses on empowerment and rehabilitation of clients in the stable phase. During 2007 articles appeared in scientific journals arguing in favor of the need for the development of the treatment method Assertive Community Treatment (ACT). A particularly notable article was one that featured a Dutch version of ACT, namely FACT. The initiative received great sympathy given that clinical practice and research showed that both American and British versions of ACT were in need of new impulses to be able to maintain an optimal level of care. Seven years have passed since the Dutch model was international presented and five empirical studies about FACT have been published and therefore a first critical examination of FACT was conducted. The review indicated that the five empirical studies failed to show that FACT involves improvement of the clients in terms of symptoms, functioning, or well-being. The conclusions were that at present there is no evidence for FACT and that RACT with its small, flexible ACT teams, where the client him/herself is included and decides on the treatment goals, might be able to provide new impulses and a new vitality to the treatment mode of an assertive community treatment.
Collaborative Case-Based Reasoning for Knowledge Discovery of Elders Health Assessment System
Authors: Hu Ping , Gu Dong-xiao , Zhu Yu
Published: September 2014

The existing Elders Health Assessment (EHA) system based on single-case-library reasoning has low intelligence level, poor coordination, and limited capabilities of assessment decision support. To effectively support knowledge reuse of EHA system, this paper proposes collaborative case reasoning and applies it to the whole knowledge reuse process of EHA system. It proposes a multi-case library reasoning application framework of EHA knowledge reuse system, and studies key techniques such as case representation, case retrieval algorithm, case optimization and correction, and reuse etc.. In the aspect of case representation, XML-based multi-case representation for case organization and storage is applied to facilitate case retrieval and management. In the aspect of retrieval method, Knowledge-Guided Approach with Nearest-Neighbor is proposed. Given the complexity of EHA, Gray Relational Analysis with weighted Euclidean Distance is used to measure the similarity so as to improve case retrieval accuracy.
Computation of Normal Depth in Parabolic Cross Sections Using The Rough Model Method
Authors: ACHOUR Bachir
Published: September 2014

A new method is applied to calculate the normal depth in an open channel of parabolic cross section. This is the rough model method whose main particularity is to ignore the flow resistance coefficients, such as Chezy’s coefficient and manning’s roughness coefficient. The method is applied to a referential rough model, whose friction coefficient is constant, which explicitly express the hydraulic and geometric characteristics of the model such as aspect ratio. By means of a non-dimensional correction factor, the normal depth is explicitly deduced. The rough model method is applicable to the entire domain of turbulent flow.
Monitoring Methods of Crack Behavior in Hydraulic Concrete Structure Based on Crack Mouth Opening Displacement (CMOD)
Authors: Huo Zhong-Yan , Qian Guang-Xuan , Zheng Dong-Jian
Published: September 2014

For the difficulty of applying classical fracture criteria to the actual hydraulic engineering and silulating the process of cracking by conditional FEM, in this paper, a new method of analyzing and monitoring crack behavior in hydraulic structures under the effect of Hydro-Mechanical (HM) interaction is studied by using the XFEM, in which crack mouth opening displacement (CMOD) is adopted as monitoring index. The core innovation done in this study is that a method of determining macro crack tip is proposed based on cohesive force for the first time, and the critical value of CTOD is investigated and proved to be a material parameter. it is verified by comparing with the concrete tests and numerical calculations of former related literatures. All of the above shows that the present monitoring method based on CMOD provides a practical way to simulate cracking in hydraulic concrete structures.
Intraocular Lens Subluxation in Marfan Syndrome
Authors: Rodrigo Bolaños-Jiménez , Paulina López-Lizárraga E , Francesc March de R , Eduardo Telich-Tarriba J , Alejandro Navas
Published: September 2014

Purpose :

Ectopia lentis (EL) is a major criteria for the diagnosis of Marfan syndrome, it may vary from an asymptomatic mild displacement to a significant subluxation that places the equator of the lens in the pupillary axis. The purpose of this work is to present the case of a patient with Marfan syndrome who received treatment for subluxation at our institution.

Case Report :

A 51-year-old female diagnosed with Marfan syndrome presented to the emergency department with bilateral eye redness, foreign body sensation and crusting around the eyes on awakening. She had the following history of cardiac and ophthalmologic complications, including: 1. Lens subluxation 2. High myopia 3. Aortic root dilation, 4. Mitral valve prolapse and 5. Tricuspid insufficiency.

Conclusion :

The ophthalmological management of Marfan patients is challenging and periodical follow-up is needed. Surgical versus conservative management is controversial, each case needs to be evaluated individually to analyze the risks and benefits of the procedures.
Single-Pedicled Myocutaneous Flap of the Nose: A Case Study with Scar Quality Assessment
Authors: Schopper Christine , Maria Valesky Eva , Kaufmann Roland , Meissner Markus
Published: September 2014

The plastic reconstruction of the nose after microscopically controlled tumor surgery poses a particular
challenge. The single pedicled nasalis myocutaneous flap is suited for the repair of defects of the distal nose. The flap is
characterized by great tissue mobility and ensured vascular supply. Below a case study is presented that involves 4
patients who were treated with this special flap in our hospital after excision of a basal cell carcinoma. The scar quality
was measured after one year with the scar assessment tool POSAS (The Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale).
The single pedicled nasalis myocutaneous flap healed without any complication in all 4 patients. The nose shape could be
preserved by the almost tension-free shift of the flap on the myocutaneous pedicle. The evaluation with the POSAS
showed good results for all individual parameters and in the overall assessment. The single pedicled nasalis myocutaneous
flap offers a good alternative to repair defects on the distal nasal bridge, nasal ala and the nasal tip. The pedicle provides a
maximum on mobility combined with a good perfusion of the flap. As the flap is built out of nose tissue the color and
texture can be kept which leads to an excellent cosmetic result. The good results are also reflected by the evaluation of the
POSAS data.
Surface Roughness and Gloss of Actual Composites as Polished With Different Polishing Systems
Authors: Rodrigues-Junior SA , Chemin P , Piaia PP , Ferracane JL
Published: September 2014

Objective: This in vitro study evaluated the effect of polishing with different polishing systems on the surface roughness and gloss of commercial composites. Methods: One hundred disk-shaped specimens (10 mm in diameter × 2 mm thick) were made with Filtek P-90, Filtek Z350 XT, Opallis, and Grandio. The specimens were manually finished with #400 sandpaper and polished by a single operator using three multistep systems (Superfix, Diamond Pro, and Sof-lex), one two-step system (Polidores DFL), and one one-step system (Enhance), following the manufacturer's instructions. The average surface roughness (μm) was measured with a surface profilometer (TR 200 Surface Roughness Tester), and gloss was measured using a small-area glossmeter (Novo-Curve, Rhopoint Instrumentation, East Sussex, UK). Data were analyzed by two-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test (α=0.05). Results: Statistically significant differences in surface roughness were identified by varying the polishing systems (p<0.0001) and by the interaction between polishing system and composite (p<0.0001). Pairwise comparisons revealed higher surface roughness for Grandio when polished with Sof-Lex and Filtek Z250 and Opallis when polished with Enhance. Gloss was influenced by the composites (p<0.0001), the polishing systems (p<0.0001), and the interaction between them (p<0.0001). The one-step system, Enhance, produced the lowest gloss for all composites. Conclusions: Surface roughness and gloss were affected by composites and polishing systems. The interaction between both also influenced these surface characteristics, meaning that a single polishing system will not behave similarly for all composites. The multistep systems produced higher gloss, while the one-step system produced the highest surface roughness and the lowest gloss of all.
Geophysical exploration of castle remains in Barwałd Górny (near Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, Poland) using electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) with assistance of depth of investigation index (DOI) method
Authors: Glazer Michał , Kula Damian , Saternus Robert , Lewicki Paweł
Published: September 2014

In March of 2014 at ruins of the 14th century castle, situated at the top of Mount Żar in Małopolska region, Poland, geophysical surveys were performed. Surveys were planned to investigate remains of the castle that could remain in the ground. Electrical Resistivity Tomography method was used there. In the paper 4 sections have been presented. During interpretation, as the supporting method, maps of Depth-of-Investigation (DOI) index have been used. Results of the surveys can point out potential remains of the castle walls and ruins of buildings that were situated in the stronghold
Landscape structure changes in the Slepiotka River drainage basin in the period 1824-1993 (The Silesian Upland, Poland)
Authors: Mazurek Kinga
Published: September 2014

The area of the Upper Silesian Coal Basin is the most important underground mining district in Poland. Coal mines, operating in the area since the eighteenth century, have contributed to massive transformations of the landscape structure. River valleys within range of intensive exploitation activities have been undergoing vast changes. The Slepiotka River drainage basin constitutes an interesting regional example of transformations in the river's watercourse as well as in its adjacent area. It is a left-hand tributary of the Klodnica River with a length of about 8.6 km.

Changes in the landscape structure that occurred between 1824-1993 have been analyzed. The starting material consisted of topographical maps that were digitized and calibrated and served as a basis to create colorful compositions. The areas occupied by the different land cover types have been calculated, which allowed to determine their participation in the drainage basin.

In about 169 years, significant changes took place in the area of research considering the share of different types of cover and land use. During this time, the river changed its course, both naturally and by human activities. Increasing urbanization and technological development contributed to the diametrical transformation of the landscape structure in the discussed area
Vanishing Point - or Meeting in the Middle? Student/Supervisor Transformation in a Self-Study Thesis
Authors: Pratt Dee , Peat Beth
Published: September 2014

This account explores the divergent perspectives of supervisor and student interacting in self-study research, showing how both participants were transformed by the experience. Although both supervisor and student had faced similar problems as mature students engaging in doctoral study, and both possessed strong convictions about their chosen paths, their focus was very different. The student, being visually creative, was investigating the value of integrated arts as a transformational learning medium; the supervisor, from a linguistics background, was focused on exploring the nature of written communication. The supervisor/student relationship comprises a complex nexus of interconnections between persons, material objects, times and places: it is never static, but always emerging, with the relationship often ending up being more collegial than at first, as with the authors of this paper. In the counterpoint dialogue presented by student and supervisor, it can be seen that both learned from each other: the student, the rigours of structuring a passionate argument intellectually; the supervisor, to express an intellectual argument more personally. Both authors were transformed by the supervisor/student interaction: the supervisor, in rediscovering the value of interpersonal communication; the student, in mastering a research approach which did justice to her belief in the creative power of the arts. The value of engaging with perspectives which initially appear to be irreconcilable is not just to ‘learn new things’, but to push the inner limits of our perspectives, transforming not only the ways in which we perceive things, but the ways in which we learn.
What can the ‘Transpersonal’ Contribute to Transformative Research?
Authors: Walton Joan
Published: September 2014

Since Mezirow, there has been considerable research into transformative learning. However the research methods generally used have been of the same kind that are drawn on to inquire into any area of interest. A key aim of this journal is to explore the transformative possibilities of research, and in the process to investigate creative methods which are expanding and transforming our understanding of what constitutes valid research in a postmodern world. In this context, where the assumptions and worldview of classical Newtonian science are being fundamentally challenged, the idea of the ‘transpersonal’ is receiving increasing attention, particularly within the field of psychology. This paper explains the origins of interest in the transpersonal, and provides an introduction to some emerging research methods which accept the idea of the transpersonal as valid. It concludes with the recognition that for many it will require a transformative shift in thinking and beliefs to accept a transpersonal worldview. However recent findings suggest that engaging in research which is accepting of this worldview can be truly transformative in its outcomes for the researcher, the research participants, and for the reader.
Promoting a Creative Educational Entrepreneurial Approach in Higher Education
Authors: Crotty Yvonne
Published: September 2014

In this article, I communicate and explain what it means for me to have an educational entrepreneurial approach to teaching and research. The communication of what I value requires that I move beyond text-based accounts to include multimedia forms of representation (Eisner, 1997). This explanation includes a responsibility for students and acknowledging my values of passion and care, safety, creativity and excellence within my practice. The paper presents how students on the Masters in Education and Training Management (eLearning) (MEME) programme are prepared for the dissertation practicum journey. The students who complete this form of dissertation are required to present their work at a platform presentation that involves the demonstration of scholarly work using different forms of media.
A Performance Evaluation System for Agricultural Services in Agricultural Supply Chain
Authors: Zangeneh Morteza , Nielsen Peter , Akram Asadolah , Keyhani Alireza
Published: September 2014

The aim of this paper is comparing all possible scenarios to improve the performance of agricultural supply chain (ASC). For this purpose, at first all scenarios is discussed and the main constraints, i.e. available budget and time, is considered. In this study the drivers to improve the performance of ASC is select and distribute the best agricultural service packages in the target ASC. All discussed scenarios need a selection procedure. So a multilevel approach is developed to select the best service package for each scenario. All selection methods are based on performance measurement which had been selected in first level of the approach. Fuzzy decision making and Analytic Hierarchy Process have been used for the approach. A numerical example is solved at the end of the paper to show the capability of the approach and comparing the scenarios.
Features in Angiographic Evaluation of the Diabetic Patient
Authors: Taisia Tiron Andreea , Aron Gheorghiļa
Published: September 2014

Currently it is estimated that there are over 382 million patients with diabetes worldwide and their number is increasing, which makes this metabolic disorder the most common non-contagious disease, particularly related to obesity and physical inactivity. There is a close relationship between diabetes and cardiovascular disease, statistics showing that over 50% of deaths in patients with diabetes are produced by cardiovascular complications. This requires a close collaboration between diabetologists and cardiologists. The mortality caused by atherosclerotic complications is 65-80% for diabetic patients compared to 33% in non-diabetic patients. Moreover, 20% of the patients requiring coronary revascularization procedures are diabetics and over 30% of patients with angiographic exploration have diabetes. Among the patients with diabetes the coronary lesions are present in 50% of cases and the peripheral arteries lesions in 30% of cases.
The Gutenberg galaxy and its “twilight” in the context of contemporary electronic media
Authors: Gálik Slavomír , Tolnaiová Sabína
Published: September 2014

In this article, the authors are concerned with the question of the nature of print and the impact print has on shaping the collective mentality, especially in the context of the electronic media “boom”. Based on their analysis, they state that print has, since its creation, promoted a subject-object dualism, the development of abstract, linear thinking and the shaping of a collective mentality. Print is currently already under the strong, paradigmatic influence of electronic media resulting in a qualitatively new kind of “reading”. That is to say that the electronic media cyberspace encourages the “hyper-textual” interlinking of different kinds of information in our learning or thinking, which can be referred to as “rhizomorphic”. This kind of process is bound up with non-linear “reading”, where the image dominates the word in cyberspace. The electronic media cyberspace thus dominates and shapes the contemporary collective mentality in our culture, including its approach to print.
Post-panoptic panopticism in docile mass media
Authors: Sámelová Anna
Published: September 2014

The main theme of the paper is the role of the mass media in the production, creation, retention, protection and defense of a social order, or in carrying out revisions, or cosmetic and extensive changes to it. In the first section, the author explains the Power of the Mass Media by looking at Foucauldian leprosy/plague management. The second part, Docile Mass Media Producers Under Panoptic Control, deals with the routinization of the mass media craft. Finally, the Social Order of Docile Individuals who Feel Freedom takes a closer look at the social order and how it is created by mass media producers (as professionals in their craft).
Cultural differences in the motivation of Generation Y knowledge workers
Authors: Kubátová Jaroslava , Kukelková Adéla
Published: September 2014

This article presents our research into cultural differences in the motivation of Generation Y knowledge workers. The goal of our research was to verify whether the motivation of young knowledge workers (members of Generation Y) could be assessed only in relation to the specifics of their generation, or whether it is necessary to take their national cultural background into account as well. The research carried out among two hundred respondents in four countries has confirmed that it is essential to take into account both generation differences and cultural differences.
Biographical research in social work
Authors: Kozlová Lucie , Hrušková Martina
Published: September 2014

This paper looks at the possibilities of using biographical research in social work focusing on the elderly. Social work with the elderly uses or should use biographical data to create individual plans for clients or for the purpose of sensory activation. Narrative interviews are a form of interaction between a senior client and a social worker. The social worker supports the senior’s narrative so they can view their life for themselves and explain its meaning from their own perspective. The use of sensory activation in social work is only possible when the individual’s identity is supported by a sufficient amount of environmental stimuli, which can be achieved only by acquiring and analyzing data on the life events of the individual. The paper contains examples of the use of biographical data in social work with the elderly, which is essential for further structuring their lives.
Genetic evolution of programs
Authors: Kollár Ján , Pietriková Emília
Published: September 2014

We present evolutionary approach to program development based on absorption of genetic strings at different metalevels. Introducing the principles of software evolution as processes of semantical stability, expansion and contraction, we continue with an example illustrating how it is possible to integrate metalevel with base level and how this integrated computation works when driven by genetic string of codons, determining decisions for program construction and the result of constructed program execution. Next, we analyse the evolutionary circle at metalevel and we show that mentioned expansion and contraction is possible. The main contribution of the paper is that it breaks classic boundaries between models and programs because formal binding of metalevels and base level have been reached.
Using algorithm visualizations in computer science education
Authors: Šimoňák Slavomír
Published: September 2014

Algorithm visualization illustrates how algorithms work in a graphical way. It mainly aims to simplify and deepen the understanding of algorithms operation. Within the paper we discuss the possibility of enriching the standard methods of teaching algorithms, with the algorithm visualizations. As a step in this direction, we introduce the VizAlgo algorithm visualization platform, present our practical experiences and describe possible future directions, based on our experiences and exploration performed by means of a simple questionnaire.
Implementation and evaluation of scheduling algorithm based on PSO HC for elastic cluster criteria
Authors: Skrinarova Jarmila
Published: September 2014

This paper analyses basic concept of elastic cluster as a hybrid solution of high-performance computing tasks for computing grid and cloud. The analysis is focused on the context of managing resources and tasks in the elastic cluster. In this work design, model and implementation of scheduling algorithm is described. The scheduling algorithm is based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) and hill climbing (HC) optimization and it is appropriate combination of good features the both methods. The algorithm is implemented on HPC cluster into the resource manager Torque. There is included methodology of measurement and evaluation of the algorithm. The paper presents methods of verifying behaviour of algorithm for different tasks requirements, which are typical for grid or elastic cluster. We compare suitability of the proposed algorithm with known solutions. On the base of analysed results is confirmed that proposed algorithm better satisfies specific criteria of elastic cluster.
Effect of gamma-irradiation on the differential leukocyte count in fish Poecilia reticulata
Authors: Renčko Andrej , Ondrašovičová Silvia , Sopková Drahomíra , Ondrašovičová Jana
Published: September 2014

The study investigated the effect of a single gamma-irradiation with a 60Co source at a dose of 20 Gy (1.05 Gy/min) on the guppy Poecilia reticulata (females, n = 60), which has not been determined before in this fish. We observed food intake, clinical symptoms, pathological-anatomical and histological changes and differential leukocyte count in the irradiated guppies compared to the control ones. In the first days, timidity and lethargy were observed. The most prominent clinical symptoms observed were exophthalmia, emaciation and intravital haemorrhages. Livers of irradiated guppies were characterized by hepatic steatosis. Leukogram determinations were carried out on days 3, 7, 10, 15, and 20. Relative lymphopaenia was observed in irradiated fish and the mean relative monocyte count in irradiated guppies increased from 8.7 to 20.6 within 3 days. Other important values obtained from the leukogram included relative neutropaenia, eosinopaenia and basopaenia, observed on day 3 after irradiation.
Reduzierung von Missing-Wedge-Artefakten der CT mit DIRECTT
Authors: Lange Axel , Hentschel Manfred P. , Kupsch Andreas , Hilger André , Manke Ingo , Lück Sebastian , Ulm Volker Schmidt , Grothausmann Roman
Published: September 2014

Kurzfassung

Typische „Missing Wedge“(MW)-Artefakte in Rekonstruktionen der Computertomografie können mit dem iterativen DIRECTT-Algorithmus (Direkte iterative Rekonstruktion computertomografischer Trajektorien) unterdrückt werden. Die durch fehlende Projektionswinkel bedingten MW-Restriktionen betreffen bisher nur Sonderapplikationen der Röntgen- und Neutronentomografie, müssen in der Nanometer auflösenden Elektronentomografie jedoch als Standard akzeptiert werden. Die MW-Artefakte werden besonders effektiv mit einer spezifischen DIRECTT-Prozedur partiell diskreter Zwischenlösungen beseitigt. Für die Beurteilung der Abbildungsqualität werden Rekonstruktionen von vollständigen und unvollständigen Mess- und Modell-Datensätzen erzeugt und mit Ergebnissen anderer Algorithmen (gefilterte Rückprojektion (FBP) und ART-Methoden) verglichen. Die Fourier-Transformierten der Rekonstruktionen demonstrieren die erfolgreiche Ergänzung der fehlenden Information im MW-Bereich. Die quantitative Bewertung der lokalen Rekonstruktionsqualität mit Methoden der räumlichen Statistik ergibt auch für unterschiedliche Signal-Rausch-Verhältnisse signifikante Vorteile gegenüber FBP und ART.
Mechanical and Thermal Properties of a Cu-CNT Composite with Carbon Nanotubes Synthesized by CVD Process
Authors: Güler Ömer
Published: September 2014

In this study, carbon nanotubes at 0.05–1 wt-% ratios reinforced pure copper powder. Carbon nanotubes (CNT) were used to reinforce the copper matrix, these materials were synthesized under laboratory conditions. Ultrasonic processes and ball-milling method were used to provide a homogenous dispersion during production of the Cu-CNT composite. The Cu-CNT composite powder was produced as bulk material and then, the thermal conductivity as well as the microhardness of the composite were measured. As a particular result, it turned out that the thermal conductivity and the hardness of the composite increased up to a specific ratio of the CNT reinforcement, while the reinforcement ratio exceeding this critical level provided an adverse effect.
The Fracture Toughness of Fe2B Formed on Boronized AISI 304
Authors: Topuz Polat , Gündoğdu Emine , Yılmaz Eren , Gümüş Emre
Published: September 2014

In this study, the fracture toughness of Fe2B boride layer on boronized AISI 304 stainless steel was investigated. Samples were boronized in an indirect heated fluidized bed furnace with Ekabor 1™ boronizing agent at 1123 K, 1223 K, and 1323 K for 1 h, 2 h, and 4 h, respectively. The boride phases were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Hardness and fracture toughness of borides were measured via Vickers indentation. With increasing boriding temperature and time the fracture toughness values were reduced. The boride layer thickness formed on the boronized samples ranged between 12 μm and 176 μm. The hardness of the borides ranged between 1709 HV0.1 and 2119 HV0.1 and fracture toughness was in the range of 2.19–4.47 MPa × m1/2 depending on the layer thickness and hardness.
Evaluation of HAZ Hardness in MMA Welding*
Authors: Bodea Marius , Brânduşan Liviu , Mureşan Radu
Published: September 2014

In this paper the primary objective was to establish a new and robust mathematic model that can be used to estimate the hardness in the heat affected zone of manual metal arc welds of low alloyed steels. The mathematical model was checked using a large database of experimental data, containing data for more than 1600 runs. Beside the conventional approaches using carbon equivalent formula, very sensitive coefficients have been included in the model that take into account the smallest chemical influence on the materials, like the oxygen content in ppm or other different elements such as Ti that can have a significant influence on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the welds. Also, the main welding parameters were considered in the mathematical model as primary variables and were combined with the chemical composition in a unitary formula.
Finite Element Analysis of 2205 Duplex Stainless Steel Welds*
Authors: Kisasoz Alptekin , Karaaslan Ahmet
Published: September 2014

Duplex stainless steels are sensitive to high temperature exposure. The microstructure of the duplex stainless steels changes at high process temperatures. Such microstructural changes might affect the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of duplex stainless steel. Therefore, the microstructural properties of 2205 duplex stainless steel welds were studied and respective microstructural changes during the welding process have been investigated by finite element analysis before fabrication process. 2205 duplex stainless steels were welded using the TIG process. The heat distribution along the cross section of weldments according to the TIG welding parameters was calculated by finite element analysis using ANSYS software. After metallographic preparation of the weldments, each sample was etched by electro-chemical method and the ferrite-austenite ratio was examined by light microscopy. The finite element analyses and microscopic results were compared and the mechanical properties of the weldments were investigated using hardness tests.
Impact Toughness of Friction Stir Welded Al-Mg Alloy*
Authors: Sedmak Aleksandar , Eramah Abdasalam Mohamed Mahdi , Tadić Srđan , Perković Srđa , Dascau Horia
Published: September 2014

Al-Mg 5083 alloy was friction stir welded by varying welding variables, i. e., rotational speed, traversal speed and tool tilt angle. Welded specimens have been tested by the instrumented Charpy test to evaluate total absorbed energy, as well as the energy for crack initiation and the energy for crack growth. Subsequently, the fracture surface was examined by optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to evaluate surface type of fracture, and to correlate the microstructure with the impact energy. Based on this, the optimum windows of FSW parameters for Al-Mg 5083 alloy welding have been defined.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of AA 5083 and AA 6061 Welds Joined with AlSi5 and AlSi12 Wires*
Authors: Cetinel Hakan , Ayvaz Mehmet
Published: September 2014

Aluminum alloys are used in various industries including marine, defense, automotive, transportation and aerospace. Common to all of these industries is the need to join aluminum parts using fusion based welding processes. However, there are some difficulties in welding aluminum alloys, such as, for instance, hot cracking. In this study, the aluminum alloys 5083 and 6061 were welded using the TIG process and two filler wires (AlSi12 and AlSi5). Six different alloy combinations were investigated, i. e., 5083-AlSi5-5083, 5083-AlSi12-5083, 6061-AlSi5-6061, 6061-AlSi12-6061, 5083-AlSi5-6061 and 5083-AlSi12-6061. The mechanical properties of the samples were evaluated by microhardness scans, tensile tests as well as Charpy and three point bend tests. In addition, microstructural investigations were performed by optical microscopy.
Implementation and Testing of Cooperative Bus Priority System in Connected Vehicle Environment
Authors: Wang Yinsong , Ma Wanjing , Yin Wei , Yang Xiaoguang
Published: September 2014

Most previous work on the bus priority operation problem merely focused on dedicated bus lanes or transit signal priority. With the advancement of wireless communication technologies and the development of vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure systems (i.e., connected vehicles), the opportunity has arisen to optimize traffic light, bus speed, and holding times at nearside bus stops simultaneously to provide priority for public buses. The study reported in this paper demonstrated the design and implementation of a cooperative bus priority system on the basis of connected vehicle technology. The system function, system architecture, and optimization strategies are presented. The system was deployed and validated at an intersection with two adjacent bus stops in Taicang City, Jiangsu Province, China. The results of the field test showed that the proposed system could reduce travel time and could decrease the number of stops. The successful demonstration showed that the potential was high for more efficient, integrated transit priority operation strategies on the basis of connected vehicles.
Supplementary Benefits from Partial Vehicle Automation in an Ecoapproach and Departure Application at Signalized Intersections
Authors: Wu Guoyuan , Boriboonsomsin Kanok , Xia Haitao , Barth Matthew
Published: September 2014

One of the objectives of the U.S. Department of Transportation's connected vehicle (CV) research program is to develop innovative applications that take advantage of communications between vehicles and roadside infrastructure as well as between the vehicles themselves to improve safety, mobility, and the environmental performance of multimodal transportation systems. Many of the energy- and environment-focused CV applications involve the prescription of optimal speed profiles for vehicles that travel within the transportation network. These recommended speed profiles can then be provided to the drivers through human–machine interfaces (HMIs). However, the drivers may not be able to follow the recommended speed profiles closely. In that case, the effectiveness of the applications might be degraded. These HMIs may even be distracting and detrimental to safety. Partial vehicle automation can be used to follow a recommended speed profile and play an important role to ensure that the benefits of these CV applications are realized fully. This paper presents an evaluation of the supplementary benefits from partial vehicle automation in CV applications with the use of an ecoapproach and departure application at signalized inter sections in a case study. This application provides recommended speeds for vehicles as they approach and travel through a signalized intersection so that they pass through the intersection on green or decelerate to a stop in the most ecofriendly manner. The evaluation was based on real-world HMI manual driving data and in simulated partial automation data. The results showed different levels of supplementary benefits, which depended on the ability of the drivers to follow the recommended speeds, compared with the actual target speed profiles that would have been achieved through partial vehicle automation.
Pavement Performance Measures
Authors: Corley-Lay Judith
Published: September 2014

Performance measures considered for flexible and rigid surfaced pavements and the threshold values for these measures are reported. A survey was sent to members of the Joint Technical Committee on Pavements, and 14 of 20 states responded. Performance measures for flexible pavements included international roughness index (IRI), rutting, and cracking. Performance measures for rigid pavements included IRI, patching, cracking, pop-outs, faulting, and damaged joints. For each measure, states were asked to define “good,” “fair,” and “poor” for both Inter-states and other National Highway System routes. States were asked to define their system's performance for given thresholds and to provide some information about how they collected, processed, and used the data. States use rutting and cracking to assess performance of flexible pavements. The IRI was the third-ranked measure but was consistently applied to both flexible and rigid pavements. Rutting measurements varied with the number and types of sensors, and states used five-point sensors to line sensors to three-dimensional cameras. Use of cracking as a performance measure required consensus building about definitions, measurement methods, and thresholds. Survey responses for rigid pavements were limited to jointed plain concrete because 12 of the 14 states indicated that the majority of their rigid pavements were of this type. Additional work is required for a faulting measure, because the ability to detect the joint is a function of the distance between consecutive traces. Development of definitions, methods, and thresholds is required for other rigid pavement performance measures, including patching, cracked slabs, and damaged joints.
Long-Term Cost-Effectiveness of Asphalt Pavement Pothole Patching Methods
Authors: Dong Qiao , Huang Baoshan , Jia Xiaoyang
Published: September 2014

Throw-and-roll and semipermanent patches are frequently used pothole patching techniques for asphalt pavement. To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the two patching techniques with different combinations of materials and procedures, a 14-month survey was conducted to investigate field performance of patches installed on road sections with varying weather and traffic conditions. The performance of a patch was rated according to its overall distress conditions. With failed patches rated as 0, the service time was considered in the performance index. The multiple linear regression method was used to analyze the influence of patching methods, materials, geometric features, climatic condition, and traffic factors on the performance of patches. The field survey found that the throw-and-roll patches installed in winter deteriorated very fast, mainly because of severe freezing environment and insufficient compaction and curing. The 70% throw-and-roll patches lasted less than 14 months. Patches that survived through the first winter were typically well compacted, fully cured, and tended to last much longer. Labor costs accounted for 50% to 60% of the total cost, while material costs accounted for only 20% for cold mixes and 2% to ∼5% for semi permanent patches. Because of the reduced equipment and labor costs, the throw-and-roll patches had higher cost-effectiveness in the short term. However, the effectiveness of throw-and-roll patches decreased rapidly, and semipermanent patches exhibited higher cost-effectiveness in the long term. To improve the stability of patches, it is of great importance to apply sufficient compaction during installation.
The role of Chlorine Interactions in the construction of Nickel(Ii) and Cobalt(Ii) Supramolecular Metal-Organic Frameworks Based on Mixed Tetrachloroterephthalate and 2,2'-Bipyridine Ligands
Authors: Tian Feng , Gao Jian , He Ming-Yang , Chen Qun , Chen Sheng-Chun
Published: September 2014

Reactions of the rigid ligand 2,3,5,6-tetrachloro-1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid (H2BDC–Cl4) with nickel(II) and cobalt(II) metal salts in the presence of 2,2'-bipyridine in DMF/MeOH afforded [M(BDC–Cl4)(2,2'-bpy)(MeOH)2] n (M = Ni or Co). The Ni complex has a one-dimensional (1-D) linear structure that is further extended into a three-dimensional (3-D) supramolecular framework by inter-chain C–H···Cl hydrogen bonds, whereas the Co compound shows a 1-D zigzag structure, which is further assembled into a 3-D supramolecular architecture through intermolecular C–H···Cl and Cl···Cl interactions. These results reveal that weak chlorine interactions play an important role in governing these supramolecular structures. Thermal and fluorescence properties have also been investigated.
Synthesis of 2-aryl-1,1-Bis(Silyl)Alkenes-Containing Tetrasubstituted Imidazoles Catalysed by M–Cu/ZSM-5 (M: Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, V, Zn and Fe) Zeolites-Supported Bimetallic Nanostructures
Authors: Safa Kazem D. , Sarchami Leila , Allahvirdinesbat Maryam , Feyzi Aynaz , Panahi Parvaneh Nakhostin
Published: September 2014

The one-pot synthesis of tetrasubstituted imidazoles by using a series of M-Cu/ZSM-5 (M: Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, V, Zn and Fe) zeolites-supported bimetallic catalysts was studied. Fe-Cu/ZSM-5 bimetallic oxide catalyst had the highest activity in improving the efficiency of the heterogeneous cyclo-condensation reaction. Some imidazole derivatives terminated by vinylbis(silanes) have been synthesised using (Me3Si)3CLi through the Peterson olefination reaction.
20 Jahre ökologische Aufwertung von Waldrändern im Kanton Aargau: erste Erfolgskontrolle
Authors: Spörri Kaspar , Babbi Manuel , Krüsi Bertil O.
Published: September 2014

20 years of ecological forest edge enhancement in the Canton of Aargau: a first evaluation

On the Swiss Plateau, 25 000 km of forest edges serve as transition zones between open grasslands and closed forests. They fulfil important functions with regard to ecological connectivity and constitute a habitat for numerous plant and animal species. Since only a fraction of these forest edges are in good ecological condition, most cantons implement programs to enhance their quality. With almost 200 km of upgraded forest edges, the Canton of Aargau takes on a pioneering role throughout Switzerland. To date, however, it was unknown what ecological value the upgraded forest edges have and which factors significantly contribute to the success of the implemented measures. We used a standardised evaluation key and interviews with the responsible forest services to assess the ecological quality of 20 selected forest edges in six forest districts in the Canton of Aargau as well as potential success factors. Our investigations show that enhanced forest edges in the Canton of Aargau are in a very good condition. The two most important structural elements of a forest edge in terms of biodiversity are two to eight times more marked than on average on a national scale, and they nearly conform to the objectives as defined by nature conservancy. With a registered total of 31 domestic deciduous tree species and 58 domestic lignified plant species, floristic diversity is remarkably high. Contrary to the estimation of the responsible forest services, neither the vigour of a location nor its aspect proved to be decisive factors of success. Rather, the frequency of intervention seems to be critical. Maintenance measures should be implemented at least every seven years. More comprehensive analyses are necessary to corroborate the present findings for other regions in Switzerland. Precondition for such analyses are systematic performance reviews that include an examination of the baseline conditions.