bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Foundation Pit Deformation Monitoring Results about Xia Shengou Station in Shenyang
Authors: Zhang Bin , Jin Rong , Yu Xiang Lian
Published: November 2013

In the northeast of China,the research of subway foundation pit is still infancy,which needs enriching. This paper relies on the deep foundation pit engineering of Xiashengou Subway Station in Shenyang. Through the analysis of deformation foundation pits to study deformation characteristics.Through the monitoring data,we can know that combined the bored and steel support the deformation of the retaining structure and the ground surface subsidence can be well controlled.The deformation of the envelope and the surface has a strong time effect and increases with time,in the excavation stage,pile deformation presented randomness. In the excavation stage, pile deformation presented randomness.When the excavation completed 45 days,from the top of the pile to the pile at 13m depth,the lateral volume is almost equal, and thus down to the pile end the lateral volume gradually becomes zero.
A Study on the Lateral Accretion Body Potential Tapping of the Point Bar
Authors: Zhao Hong
Published: November 2013

The channel sand in PI3132 units of A area in Daqing oilfield is meandering river sand body. Although more than 90 percent of it is watering out, the serious heterogeneity in layers make it possible that there are plenty of remaining reserves in unwashed or low-washed segments in water flooded layers. All these two kinds of remaining oil are the main potential tapping objectives in later period of oilfield development.The writer deeply analyzed the point bar sand body of the meandering river, established the recognizing method of the abandoned channel and the lateral accretion body of point bar, understood the remaining oil distribution in the washed segments and unwashed segments of the thick oil layers. By implementing the Personalized treatments for individual wells,such as super-short radius horizontal wells drilling,waterflood depth profile controlling,cyclic injecting and producing, etc, the point bar sand body potential tapping technology for different formation cause has been established. And this has essential meaning to direct the oilfield development.
Stability Analysis of Surrounding Rock Mass of Underground Powerhouse Cavern
Authors: He Xiao Gang , Dai Feng , Xu Nu Wen , Sha Chun
Published: November 2013

The underground powerhouse of Houziyan hydropower station has some typical characteristics such as high strata stress, large span and high sidewalls. In this paper, numerical simulation of continuous excavation and support of the underground caverns was performed using the Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continuum method (FLAC3D). Then, the distribution characteristic of the deformation field, stress field and plastic zones was analyzed based on the numerical calculation results. In addition, the distribution of stress was compared with microseismic events. It shows that stress concentration can cause micro-seismic events regional aggregation.
Influence Research of Underground Caverns Blasting Excavation on Excavation Damage Zone of Adjacent Cavern
Authors: Xu Peng Cheng , Dong Qian , Li Xin Ping , Luo Yi
Published: November 2013

The influence of the single cavern blasting excavation in underground caverns on the stability of surrounding rock of adjacent caverns can not be ignored.In–situ blasting vibration test and dynamic finite element analysis were used to study the laws of blasting seismic wave propagation, two different material constitutive models were adopted, compared with measured data,to select material constitutive model which was more in line with the dynamic characteristics of rock mass in underground caverns.On this basis, the influence mechanism for blast–induced EDZ(Excavation Damage Zone) of the adjacent cavern is studied through the method of numerical simulation. The results show that the numerical simulation resulted by adopting kinematic hardening model were more close to measured data than adopting ideal elastic–plastic model; the middle part of adjacent tunnel side wall facing blasting had the largest damaged rock mass range; both sides of the arch and the foundation rock of the adjacent cavern emerged damaged rock mass area, and the area of adjacent tunnel side wall facing blasting was larger than side wall not facing blasting.
Study on the Thermal Properties of Paraffin/Ceramsite Phase Change Concrete
Authors: Wang Qing , Zhang Cun Bao , Ding Zhao Yang , Liu Jun
Published: November 2013

Mixed paraffins, which had low phase transition temperature and high enthalpy,were used as phase change material (PCM),light-weight clay ceramsite was used as carrier, paraffin/ceramsite PCM was prepared and which was encapsulated by epoxy resin and triethylenetetramine.The results show that the proportion of liquid paraffin to solid paraffin is 4:6 through both temperature-time curve test and DSC analysis.The quality of paraffin which is absorbed in vacuum condition for 2 hours is 95.5% and the minimum leakage quality of paraffin in the process of thermal cycling is 3.3% which is half of the unencapsulated.It takes 480min for paraffin ceramsite PCM drop its temperature from 24°C to 18°C,and it is 240min for normal concrete which could effectly prevent heat transfer inside and outside,then reduce the indoor temperature fluctuations and improve living comfort compared to ordinary concrete.
Study on the Development of Slope's Plastic Zone by Strength Reduction FEM
Authors: Feng Tu Gen , Yang Cai
Published: November 2013

Based on the idea presented in literature [4]:when to calculate the safety coefficient by strength reduction FEM, The material's shear strength parameters c and φ will be deducted,it is suggested that sinφ≥ 1-2v.This paper study on the development of slope's plastic zone with different v and by strength reduction FEM, research show that the effect of v on the safety coefficient is not obvious,but when φ=20 and v beside critical value,the effect to the development of the plastic zone is obvious. When the value is bigger, the development of plastic zone occurs in the deep and the potential sliding channel cannot feed through.According this ,this paper puts forward a comprehensive evaluation method that combined with three instability criterions that finite element calculation does not converge,plastic zone run through,displacement of feature points appear inflection point.
Research on Settlement and Bearing Capacity of Y-Section Pile Considering Abnormality Effect
Authors: Wang Xin Quan , Wei Xin Jiang , Liu An Yuan , Liao Juan , Ren Lian Wei
Published: November 2013

The side friction of Y-section pile is non-uniform distributed along its inverted arch arc, the load - settlement law of Y-section pile distinguishes to the traditional piles' as there is abnormality effect of side friction. Computation theory of settlement and ultimate bearing capacity needs to be studied. Calculate the settlement under different loads based on the model of skin friction, ultimate tip resistance and additional stress coefficient, and then predict ultimate bearing capacity by loads-settlement laws, the theoretical values of settlement and ultimate bearing capacity are in good agreement with the results of Static load test. The influences of five variables R, θ, δ, s, and L on settlement of Y-section file are analyzed, the settlement of Y-section pile under the constant load decreases with the increase of R, δ, s, δ and increases with the increase of θ. The influences of Relevant parameters on ultimate bearing capacity are also analyzed, the ultimate bearing capacity of Y-section pile decreases with the increase of θ and increases with the increase of R, δ, s and L.
Experiment and Analysis on the Strength of Large Aggregate Concrete under Biaxial Compression after Freezing-Thawing Cycles
Authors: Xu Xiu Juan , Guo Yan Tao
Published: November 2013

Biaxial compression tests are performed on 450mm*450mm*450mm cubic specimens of big aggregate concrete at five kinds of stress ratios,0:-1, -0.25:-1, -0.5:-1, -0.75:-1 and-1:-1 after exposure to freeze-thaw cycles of 50, 100, 150, 200, 250 and 300 times by employing a large static-dynamic true triaxial machine. Failure modes of the specimens are observed and described. The two principally static compressive strengths are measured. Based on the test data, the influences of the freeze-thaw cycles and stress ratios on the biaxial strengths of big aggregate concrete after exposure to freeze-thaw are analyzed respectively. The relationships between the ultimate compressive strength and freeze-thaw cycles, stress ratios are given respectively. The unified failure criterion with consideration of the influence of freeze-thaw cycles and stress ratios is proposed, which provides the experimental and theoretical foundations for strength analysis of big aggregate concrete structures subject to complex loads in cold environment. Key words: big aggregate concrete; freeze-thaw cycle; stress ratio; biaxial compressive strength; failure criterion
Impact-Resistant Analysis of Fixed Reinforced Concrete Beam with Composite Laminates
Authors: Yang Run Lin , Kong Jie , Zhou Juan Hua
Published: November 2013

Traditional design of structural members is considered less collision effects, so it may be possible to cause damage due to impact loads. In view of this, impact-resistant performance of the composite protective measures proposed in the early time was analyzed. In the process of the numerical simulation, the observed reinforced concrete beams fixed at both ends with four different measures including the unprotected, the rigid protective, the flexible protective and the composite protective one were considered separately. Protective effects of the different measures were compared and analyzed by observing the strain, the velocity, the acceleration and the impact force of the target beam. Numerical results show that the composite protective system works best. The composite protective layer of the beam can suppress the impact response effectively.
Experimental Study of Expansive Soil Improved by Lime
Authors: Guo Ming Lei
Published: November 2013

Expansive soil mixed with a certain amount of lime in the post-isostatic pressing, as measured through the oedometer specimen expansion and contraction coefficient changes. Test divided load and no-load charge plus two groups, drawn economically reasonable dosage of lime for building design and construction to provide evidence.
Effect of Two Kinds of Rare Earth Oxides on Zirconia Restoration
Authors: Chen Jian Feng , Dang Rui Jie , Zhao Li Sheng , Deng Bin , Gu Bin , Yi Yuan Fu , Lu Huai Xiu , Wen Ning
Published: November 2013

Objective: To evaluate the colouration of zirconia ceramic by adding two kinds of rare earth oxides. Methods: Added different concentrations of Fe2O3and CeO2in tetragonal zirconia poly crystals stabilized with 3Y-TZP powder compacted at 200MPa using cold isostatic pressure, and fully sinter. The chromaticity of sintered bodies was measured with spectrophotometer. Results: self-colored zirconia by two kinds of rare earth oxides: The lightness of zirconia by adding cerium oxides was about 85 and a* decreased slightly. The color shifted to more yellow-green color. The chroma of the ceramics became more intensity, the lightness decreased with the increasing of the content of ferrum oxides and the color change to red-yellow direction. Conclusion: Zirconia ceramic could be colorized by Fe2O3and CeO2.
Microstructure and Properties of Resin-Based Pyrocarbon with Micro-Nano Structure Carbon and TiO2 as Additives
Authors: Xia Yu Fei , Wu Xiao Wen , Liu Yan Gai , Fang Ming Hao , Huang Zhao Hui
Published: November 2013

In the present study, novel pyrocarbon samples were prepared by carbonization with phenolic resin as precursor and such as graphite nanosheets, carbon black, and TiO2 with various ratios as additives. The microstructure, morphology, mechanical and anti-oxidation properties were investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electronic microscopy, electron universal testing machine, and oxidation weight loss method, respectively. The results show that the graphite nanosheets and carbon black can help to improve the mechanical properties and oxidation resistance of resin-based pyrocarbon because the structure of resin-based carbon will be effectively enhanced by these additives. TiO2 will be restored in the coking process which led to destroy of the internal structure of pyrocarbon, thus the addition of TiO2 will reduce the compressive strength and oxidation resistance of pyrocarbon. Mechanical property analysis indicate that the sample add graphite micro chip has the highest compressive strength of resin carbon, Numerical value for the sample is 17.3MPa, is 19 times of the sample which added graphite and boric acid, and 2 times of the sample which added TiO2,graphite and boric. Oxidation experiment under 500 °C results show that add boric acid against oxidation resistance of resin carbon materials, without boric acid resin carbon the burning loss rate is only 40% of the sample. Oxidation experiment under 500 °C results show that added boric acid, TiO2 and graphite sample of ignition loss rate is the lowest, the value of 71%, 25% lower compared to other samples.
Fabrication of Nano Zeolite P from Coal Fly Ash by Combining Alkaline — Fusion and Hydrothermal Reactions
Authors: Wang Yong Zai , Wang Le , Xu Hong Ming , Luo Shao Hui
Published: November 2013

Well-crystallised nanozeolite P has been synthesized from coal fly ash by combined method of alkaline-fusion and hydrothermal reactions. The influence of preparation parameters, such as the proportion of fly ash/NaOH, the hydrothermal reaction temperature and time on the reaction products were investigated by XRD and FESEM. Results indicated that, the optimum conditions for fabrication of a single phase of zeolite P were the mass ratio of fly ash/ NaOH =1/1, fusion temperature at 550°C and hydrothermal temperature at 100°C for 48h .The average crystallite sizes of the zeolite samples are 29.4nm. The obtained products show crystal morphology heterogeneity comprised by various euhedral forms.
Preparation and Electrical Properties of Sr2KNb5O15 Ceramics by Molten Salt Method
Authors: Zhang Tian Hang , Liu Yan Gai , Yang Cheng Xue , Zhao Jin Qiu , Huang Zhao Hui , Fang Ming Hao
Published: November 2013

Sr2KNb5O15 ceramic powders have been synthesized by molten salt method, ceramics were sintered via a pressureless sintering method. The effect of calcining temperature on the phase composition and microstructure of ceramic powders were investigated by XRD and SEM analysis. The results show that microstructure of ceramic powders changed from acicular to platy, and the average size of ceramic powders become bigger with the calcining temperature increased. The optimal calcining temperature was 1200°C, and the length and diameter of ceramic powders was about 1-5 mm and 0.2-1 mm, thus the aspect ratio of ceramic powders was about 1-5. The influence of sintering temperature on density, microstructure and electrical properties of the ceramics were systematically analyzed. The results indicate that density and electrical properties of the ceramics first increased then decreased with increasing the sintering temperature. When the sintering temperature was 1400°C, the ceramics show optimized relative density and electrical properties (d33=40 pC/N, er=616, tand=0.029, Ec=9.83 kV/cm, Pr=32.50 mC/cm2).
Characterization and Thermal Decomposition Process of ZrC Ceramic Organic Precursor
Authors: Chen Ming Wei , Qiu Hai Peng , Zhang Wei Gang , Jiao Jian , Wang Ruo Gu
Published: November 2013

The pyrolysis ceramic dynamic process of ZrC ceramic precursor was characterized by means of on-line TG-DSC-FTIR-MS coupling technique, and the conversion mechanism of ZrC ceramic was investigated based on XRD, SEM, TEM and XRF. ZrC ceramic could be obtained at 1400°C lower than theoretic temperature when Zirconium element is reduced by carbon from ZrO2. The results showed that ZrC ceramic precursor presented storage stability and excellent solubility in toluene. Ethanol, carbon dioxide, acetone and tetrahydrofuran (THF) were given off before heat treatment at 1100°C, and the pyrolysis product held in the form of ZrO2 and amorphous carbon. ZrC crystals were gradually formed when heated up to 1200°C and obtained completely at 1400°C. This ZrC ceramic precursor provides promising candidate for oxidation resistance and ablation resistance ZrC-SiC ceramic matrix composites.
Preparation and Electrical Characteristics of Bi4-xYbxTi3O12 Ceramics
Authors: Huang Chong Qing , Liu J. , Chen M. , Mei X.A.
Published: November 2013

The electrical properties of Yb-doped bismuth titanate,Bi4-xYbxTi3O12 (BYbT) ceramics prepared by a conventional electroceramic technique were investigated. XRD analyses revealed Bi-layered perovskite structure in all samples. SEM micrographs showed randomly oriented and plate-like morphology. For the samples with x=0.25 and 1.0 the current-voltage characteristics exhibited negative differential resistance behaviors and their P-V hysteresis loops were characterized by large leakage current, whereas for the samples with x=0.5 and 0.75 the current-voltage characteristics showed simple ohmic behaviors and their P-E hysteresis loops were the saturated and undistorted hysteresis loops. The remanent polarization ( Pr ) and coercive field (Ec) of the BYbT ceramic with x=0.75 were above 16μC/cm2 and 75KV/cm , respectively.
Electrochemical Characteristics of the Magnesium Titanium Composite Oxide-Coated Spinel-Type Lithium Manganese Oxide
Authors: Wang Hai Quan , Hu Zhi Qiang , Yang Kun , Yu Yang , Liu Jing Xiao , Hao Hong Shun , Liu Hua
Published: November 2013

In this experiment, the spinel-type lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4) prepared via solid-phase sintering method was coated with magnesium titanium composite oxide (MgTiOx) in the presence of polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) under the ultrasonic wave. The crystal structures, surface morphologies and electrochemical properties of the sample prepared were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electrochemical analysis. The X-ray diffractions indicated that the LiMn2O4 coated with MgTiOx were similar to that of the pure LiMn2O4, and they both showed sharp and high peaks. The particles of the samples prepared with PVP did not aggregate obviously, and the samples were coated completely and homogeneously. At charge-discharge rates of 0.2C, the first discharge capacity can reach more than 120 mAh / g. Compared with pure LiMn2O4, the capacity attenuation of MgTiOx-coated LiMn2O4 reduced after fifty cycles, and showed good electrochemical performance.
Comparative Study on Preparation and Properties of BaZr0.8Y0.2O3-δ Solid Electrolyte
Authors: Peng Cheng , Huang Ting Ting , Zheng Yi Xiong
Published: November 2013

The preparation of the BaZr0.8Y0.2O3-δ solid electrolyte obtained by a nitrate-citrate combustion is reported. This synthesis method is compared with solid state reaction. The phase formation process was studied using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The phase evolution during the gel-combustion process and solid state process as a function of heat-treatment temperature was also studied by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). When using nitrate-citrate combustion method a pure phase was formed at 800°C, which is much lower than that of conventional solid state reaction (at 1200°C). The sinterability of electrolyte powder was also investigated. At 1700°C very dense pellets can be obtained for both samples. The conductivity of BaZr0.8Y0.2O3-δ (BZY20)electrolyte prepared using two different processes was measured by AC impedance spectroscopy. Impedance spectra analyses showed that the grain boundary conductivity is much lower than that of the bulk for BZY20. Furthermore, the grain-boundary resistance of the BZY20 prepared via nitrate-citrate combustion process was reduced markedly compared to that of the BZY20 prepared by conventional solid state reaction.
Effect of Coupled Conditions of Thermal Cycle and Dump Environment on Conductivity of 5mol% Yttria Stabilized Zirconia
Authors: Xia Jin Feng , Nian Hong Qiang , Feng Tao , Xu Hai Fang , Jiang Dan Yu
Published: November 2013

In some applications such as automotive oxygen sensor, 5mol% Y2O3stabilized zirconia (5YSZ) is generally used because it has both excellent ionic conductivity and mechanical properties. The automotive oxygen sensor would experience a cyclic change from high temperature (engine running) environment to the low temperature damp environment (in the tail pipe when vehicle stops). The conductivity change with coupled conditions of thermal cycle and dump environment in the 5mol%Y2O3ZrO2(5YSZ) system was examined by XRD,Impedance spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (SEM) in this paper.
Preparation and Luminescence Properties of Sr2CeO4 Doped with Ho3+
Authors: Zhang Fang , Song Chao , Ma Ling Li , Xu Xiao Li , Peng Zi Fei
Published: November 2013

Sr2CeO4: Ho3+ was prepared by high-temperature solid-state method. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and photo luminescent (PL). The Sr2CeO4:Ho3+ phosphors showed a red emission under the near-ultraviolet excitation (280 nm) and the main emission centered at 475 nm. It has been found that A+ (A+ = Li+, Na+ or K+) codoped Sr2CeO4: Ho3+ phosphors could lead to a remarkable increase of photoluminescence. Luminous intensity was the highest when doping Li+ ions. Investigation indicated that Sr2Ce0.989O4: 0.001Ho3+, 0.01Li+ exhibited the strongest emission. The average particle size was about 6 um. The optimum sintering temperature was 1200 °C and the possible mechanism was also discussed.
The Influence of Variety Lightness of Neutral Background on Peridot’s Color Appearance
Authors: Ma Li Xia , Guo Ying , Tang Wei Xi
Published: November 2013

48 yellowish green peridots examined to test the color parameter under the neutral backgrounds whose lightness values are 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80 by Color i5 tester, combing with the color parameter of peridots themselves, such as lightness values L*∈(50,60), chroma values C*∈(27,45), make the influence of different backgrounds on peridots’color appearence clear.With the help of two-factor analysis method, get that the F index of Row factor(standing for the lightness of peridots themselves): 16.61 which is greater than the its Fcrit index:1.40, and the F index of Column factor(standing for the lightness of backgrounds): 193.99 which is much greater than the Fcrit index, either, thus it shows that the peridots’color appearance is not only resulted by their onw lightness, but also by the backgrounds’. What is more, the influence of backgrounds is more significant; and comparing all samples’ chroma index fit line under different backgroud, find out peridot’s chroma index turning to be greater when the backgrounds’lightness increasing, and the influences are obvious during the samples with high chroma indexes. It is concluded that, for the peridots with medium lightness,the neutral backgrounds impact more on their color appearence than their own lightness do, and with the increase of backgrounds’lightness, peridots’lightness and chroma indexes will be higher.
Synthesis and Photochromic Properties of MOO3 Nanosheets Crystallites
Authors: Zhang Lin , Tu Yue , Cui Jing Hui , Zhou Fang Yu , Li Qiang
Published: November 2013

Layered Molybdenum trioxide MOO3, with a two-dimensional (2D) structure was successfully delaminated into colloidal nanosheets in n-butanol via a soft-chemical process involving intercalation of dodecylamine. X-ray diffration (XRD) showd that: after intercalation spacing of the layered material expend to 2.69nm from 1.38nm, and Characterizations by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scan electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the formation of unilamellar 2D nanosheet crystallites with an average lateral size of 400 nm. The obtained nanosheets exhibited photochromic properties upon UV-VIS excitation. The chromogenic nanosheet obtained in this study features the intense UV absorption and optically switchable Visible-to-IR absorption, which may be useful for window applications such as heat-absorbing films.
Preparation and Characterization of SiO2 Nano/Submicron-Rods by Catalytic Pyrolysis of a Polymer Precursor
Authors: Gao Feng , Peng Zhi Jian , Fu Xiu Li
Published: November 2013

SiO2 nano/submicron-structures have attracted tremendous interest due to their importance in extensive applications. In this work, SiO2 nano/submicron-rods were successfully synthesized by a simple method through pyrolyzing an amorphous polysilazane preceramic powder with catalyst FeCl2. The synthesized nano/submicron-rods possess well-defined shape with diameter of 700-900 nm and high purity.
Theoretical and Experimental Studies on Stresses in Vacuum Glazing due to Temperature Difference
Authors: Liu Xiao Gen , Bao Yi Wang
Published: November 2013

The existence of a temperature difference across a vacuum glazing causes dimensional differences between the hot and cold glass sheets, with associated mechanical stresses and bending. In order to understand the distribution characteristics of the stresses and deformation in vacuum glazing due to temperature difference, in this work, the mechanical models were established and the calculation formula of the shear stress in the edge seal and bending tensile stress on the surface of the two glass sheets of the vacuum glazing were given. A test device was designed and the maximum tensile stresses and deflection of the vacuum glazing with various temperature difference were tested by experimental, it was shown that they are identical between the experiments and the theories.
The Characteristics of Graphene Prepared by Different Methods
Authors: Chen Hong Guang , Li Cai Xia , Li Qiang
Published: November 2013

Graphene becomes a hot topic in the fields of materials science and condensed matter physics. Many synthesis methods were developed. This paper reported the characteristics of graphene prepared by different methods. Graphene was respectively prepared by oxidation-reduction method, ultrasonic peeling method and grinding methods. The structure and morphology were determined by TEM, Raman spectra,UV-Vis,ets. and compared. It was confirmed that morphology is little different but structure is similar among graphene from different preparation methods.
Method for Determination of Operating Temperature of Building Photovoltaic Module
Authors: Wei Chen Guang , Bao Yi Wang , Deng Xiao Ying , Jiang Liang
Published: November 2013

There is no national standard and international standard about nominal module operating temperature (NMOT) test methods for Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) modules. An in-lab testing method for measuring NMOT of BIPV modules is proposed. Based on the real operation condition of solar cell, the effect of ambient temperature, wind speed and optimal load resistor to operating temperature were analyzed. The surface temperature, interior temperature and back temperature of BIPV module were measured and the NMOT was determined.
Influence of Process Parameters on Surface Morphology of Ceramic Layer Prepared by Micro Arc Oxidation on Aluminum Alloy 6061
Authors: Niu Zong Wei , Wei Xiu Ting , Li Zhi Yong , Li Li , Zhao Dong Shan
Published: November 2013

Alumina ceramics film which has high hardness, wear resistance and erosion resistance can be obtained using micro arc oxidation on the surface of aluminum alloy. The process parameters have great influence on the surface morphology of alumina ceramics film prepared by micro arc oxidation. In this research, the alumina ceramics film was gotten using micro arc oxidation with different process parameters. The surface morphology of ceramics film was analyzed using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The SEM photograph was processed using ImageJ software. The dimensions of holes diameter and porosity on the surface of ceramics film were investigated. The influence regularity of process parameters such as current density, impulse frequency, duty ratio and process time to the surface morphology of alumina ceramics film was researched. This can provide basis for the optimization of process parameters.
Composition Modification and Mechanical Properties of Solidified TiB2-Based Ceramic Prepared by Combustion Synthesis in Ultra-High Gravity Field
Authors: Huang Xue Gang , Zhao Zhong Min , Zhang Long
Published: November 2013

The solidified TiC-TiB2 ceramics with excessive Ti mole content were prepared through adjusting the Ti additional agent in combustion system with ultra-high-gravity of 2000 g, and the ceramics were comprised of TiB2 primary phases, irregular TiC1-x secondary phases, a few of Al2O3 inclusions and Cr-Ti-Al metallic phases. The additional Ti content resulted in not only the rapidly-reduced Al2O3 inclusions but also the refined microstructure and the improved homogeneity in the solidified microstructure. As the Ti additional agent was increased, more and more Ti atoms could participate in the formation of nonstoichiometric TiC1-x phases and Cr-Ti-Al metallic phases. The maximum fracture toughness of 18.5 ± 1.0 MP · m0.5 in current solidified TiC-TiB2composite was achieved because of the less Al2O3 inclusions, the refined microstructure and the Ti-rich Cr-Ti-Al metallic phases obtained in the near-full-density composite. The high fracture toughness contributed from not only mechanism of crack deflection, crack-bridging and pull-out by a large number of fine TiB2 platelets, but also the ductile fracture toughening result from plastic deformation of Cr-Ti-Al metallic phases.
Influence of Substrate Temperature and Bias Voltage on Structure and Mechanical Properties of CrN Coatings
Authors: Zhang Hao , Duo Shu Wang , Xu Xiang Min , Ke Huan , Liu Ting Zhi , Fei Xiao Yan , Zhou Zi Hao
Published: November 2013

CrN coatings have been deposited successfully by Closed Filed Unbalanced Magnetron Sputter Ion Plating (CFUMSIP). The effect of substrate temperature (TS) and bias voltage (VB) together on microstructure, morphologies and mechanical properties of CrN coatings were studied. The results showed that the deposition rate of CrN coatings declines with the increase of VB Under both room temperature (R.M.) and 300°C. The FCC-CrN disappeared gradually and orth-CrN arised with the increase of VB, and the TS promoted the transformation from FCC - CrN to orth - CrN. The surface morphology of CrN coatings with changed VBs was greatly different, and VB could further improve the mechanical properties of coatings. In this paper, the CrN coating with the parameters (TS =300°C, VB =-30V) had relatively high deposition rate and mechanical properties.
Simple Method to Reduce the Effect of Patient Positioning Variation on Three-Dimensional Motion Analysis during Treadmill Gait
Authors: Tanabe Shigeo , Saitoh Eiichi , Ohtsuka Kei , Teranishi Toshio , Tomita Yutaka , Muraoka Yoshihiro
Published: November 2013

Recently, three-dimensional (3D) closed curve trajectories of markers placed at strategic body locations, called cyclograms or Lissajous-like graphs, are used for treadmill gait analysis. A simple method is presented to reduce the effect of patient positioning variation. After breaking down movement into three components (anterior-posterior, medial-lateral and superior-inferior), the time-series data and time-inverted data are serially concatenated. A fast Fourier transform (FFT) is done, and a high-pass filter (except 0 Hz) is applied to the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral components. Next an inverse FFT is executed, and the posterior half of the outcome, corresponding to time-inverted data, is deleted. The 3D closed curve is then reconstructed. Results showed that the proposed method was able to reduce the effect of patient positioning variation. Since the adjusted curve is simply a symbolized gait pattern, the method might be useful as an adjunct tool in observational gait analysis.
Veranderende perspektiewe op seksualiteit en die huwelik in ’n postmoderne kerk
Authors: Botha Annelie , Dreyer Yolanda
Published: November 2013

Shifting ecclesial perspectives on sexuality and marriage in a postmodern world. The aim of the article is to critically question whether the church is still able to guide people to make meaningful choices with regard to marriage and sexuality when values keep shifting. This question is especially relevant where the church still tends to uphold premodern values (heteronormative, patriarchal, monogamous) with regard to sexuality and marriage as the only (prescriptive) model for marriage in a postmodern world. The article consists of the following sections: changing values versus traditional values; marriage and sexuality from biblical times to the present; church in crisis; and eco-feminist family ethics.
CDC Desire durum wheat
Authors: Pozniak C. J.
Published: November 2013

Pozniak, C. J. 2013. CDC Desire durum wheat. Can. J. Plant Sci. 93: 1265–1270. CDC Desire durum wheat is adapted to the durum production area of the Canadian prairies. This conventional height durum wheat cultivar combines high grain yield potential with high grain pigment and protein concentrations and low grain cadmium. CDC Desire is strong-strawed and is earlier maturing than all check cultivars. CDC Desire expresses disease resistance similar to the current check cultivars.
Effects of chemical and physical conditions on hatching success of Bythotrephes longimanus resting eggs
Authors: Branstrator Donn K. , Shannon Lyle J. , Brown Meghan E. , Kitson Marte T.
Published: November 2013

Dormant eggs of zooplankton are considered to be tolerant of harsh environmental conditions, yet lethal thresholds of exposure have rarely been determined. We describe 3 yr of dose‐response experiments that evaluate hatching success of the resting egg of Bythotrephes longimanus (Cladocera: Cercopagidae) in response to salinity, chlorination, heat, desiccation, and freezing. There was no decline in hatching success in response to salinity (up to 4 weeks at 35 g L−1 salt) or chlorination (including up to 5 min at 3400 mg L−1 chlorine). In response to heat there was an interaction between time and temperature; hatching occurred after exposure to 40°C for 1 min, 5 min, or 10 min but declined with the two longer exposures. Hatching also occurred after exposure to 50°C for 1 min, but no hatching followed exposure to 50°C for 5 min or to higher temperatures for 1 min. In response to desiccation at 17°C, exposure for ≤ 4 h had no effect on hatching but ≥ 6 h resulted in no hatching. When frozen, hatching success depended on whether eggs were frozen in water or without water. Collectively, the results are congruent with an evolutionary origin of B. longimanus in permanent, euryhaline basins. The results advance our understanding of dispersal limits of B. longimanus, including vector potential, and may inform management practices for reducing range expansion of B. longimanus by humans.
A new Himalayan ice core CH4 record: possible hints at the preindustrial latitudinal gradient
Authors: Hou S. , Chappellaz J. , Raynaud D. , Masson-Delmotte V. , Jouzel J. , Bousquet P. , Hauglustaine D.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Two ice cores recovered from the Himalayan East Rongbuk (ER) Glacier on the northeast saddle of Mt. Qomolangma (Everest) (28°01' N, 86°58' E, 6518 m above sea level) give access to a tentative record of past Himalayan atmospheric mixing ratio of CH4 spanning the past 1200 yr. The major part of the record is affected by artifacts probably due to in situ production. After selecting what may represent the true atmospheric mixing ratio, an average of 749 ± 25 ppbv of CH4 is estimated for the late preindustrial Holocene, which is ~ 36 ± 17 (~ 73 ± 18) ppbv higher than the atmospheric levels recorded in the Greenland (Antarctic) ice cores. A comparison of these new data with model simulations of the CH4 latitudinal gradient suggests either that the models do not get a correct balance between high and low latitude CH4 sources, or that the filtered CH4 profile from the ER cores remains biased by small artifacts.
Problems with solar, volcanic, and ENSO attribution using multiple linear regression methods on temperatures from 1979–2012
Authors: Masters T.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. The effectiveness of multiple linear regression approaches in removing solar, volcanic, and El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) influences from the recent (1979–2012) surface temperature record is examined, using simple energy balance and global climate models (GCMs). These multiple regression methods are found to incorrectly diagnose the underlying signal – particularly in the presence of a deceleration – by generally overestimating the solar cooling contribution to an early 21st century pause while underestimating the warming contribution from the Mt. Pinatubo recovery. In fact, one-box models and GCMs suggest that the Pinatubo recovery has contributed more to post-2000 warming trends than the solar minimum has contributed to cooling over the same period. After adjusting the observed surface temperature record based on the natural-only multi-model mean from several CMIP5 GCMs and an empirical ENSO adjustment, a significant deceleration in the surface temperature increase is found, ranging in magnitude from −0.06 to −0.12 K dec−2 depending on model sensitivity and the temperature index used. This likely points to internal decadal variability beyond these solar, volcanic, and ENSO influences.
The GREENROOF module (v7.3) for modelling green roof hydrological and energetic performances within TEB
Authors: de Munck C. S. , Lemonsu A. , Bouzouidja R. , Masson V. , Claverie R.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. The need to prepare cities for climate change adaptation requests the urban modeller community to implement sustainable adaptation strategies within their models to be tested against specific city morphologies and scenarios. Greening city roofs is part of these strategies. In this context, the GREENROOF module for TEB (town energy balance) has been developed to model the interactions between buildings and green roof systems at the scale of the city. This module, which combines the ISBA model (Interaction between Soil Biosphere and Atmosphere) and TEB, allows for one to describe an extensive green roof composed of four functional layers (vegetation – grasses or sedums; substrate; retention/drainage layers; and artificial roof layers) and to model vegetation-atmosphere fluxes of heat, water and momentum, as well as the hydrological fluxes throughout the substrate and the drainage layers, and the thermal fluxes throughout the natural and artificial layers of the green roof. TEB-GREENROOF (SURFEX v7.3) should therefore be able to represent the impact of climate forcings on the functioning of green roof vegetation and, conversely, the influence of the green roof on the local climate. An evaluation of GREENROOF is performed for a case study located in Nancy (France) which consists of an instrumented extensive green roof with sedums and substrate and drainage layers that are typical of this kind of construction. After calibration of the drainage layer hydrological characteristics, model results show good dynamics for the substrate water content and the drainage at the green roof base, with nevertheless a tendency to underestimate the water content and overestimate the drainage. This does not impact too much the green roof temperatures, which present a good agreement with observations. Nonetheless GREENROOF tends to overestimate the soil temperatures and their amplitudes, but this effect is less important in the drainage layer. These results are encouraging with regard to modelling the impact of green roofs on thermal indoor comfort and energy consumption at the scale of cities, for which GREENROOF will be running with the building energy version of TEB – TEB-BEM. Moreover, with the green roof studied for GREENROOF evaluation being a type of extensive green roof widespread in cities, the type of hydrological characteristics highlighted for the case study will be used as the standard configuration to model extensive green roof impacts at the scale of cities.
Considering rating curve uncertainty in water level predictions
Authors: Sikorska A. E. , Scheidegger A. , Banasik K. , Rieckermann J.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Streamflow cannot be measured directly and is typically derived with a rating curve model. Unfortunately, this causes uncertainties in the streamflow data and also influences the calibration of rainfall-runoff models if they are conditioned on such data. However, it is currently unknown to what extent these uncertainties propagate to rainfall-runoff predictions. This study therefore presents a quantitative approach to rigorously consider the impact of the rating curve on the prediction uncertainty of water levels. The uncertainty analysis is performed within a formal Bayesian framework and the contributions of rating curve versus rainfall-runoff model parameters to the total predictive uncertainty are addressed. A major benefit of the approach is its independence from the applied rainfall-runoff model and rating curve. In addition, it only requires already existing hydrometric data. The approach was successfully demonstrated on a small catchment in Poland, where a dedicated monitoring campaign was performed in 2011. The results of our case study indicate that the uncertainty in calibration data derived by the rating curve method may be of the same relevance as rainfall-runoff model parameters themselves. A conceptual limitation of the approach presented is that it is limited to water level predictions. Nevertheless, regarding flood level predictions, the Bayesian framework seems very promising because it (i) enables the modeler to incorporate informal knowledge from easily accessible information and (ii) better assesses the individual error contributions. Especially the latter is important to improve the predictive capability of hydrological models.
Typology, classification and characterization of farms for agricultural production planning
Authors: Álvarez López C.J. , Riveiro Valiño J.A. , Marey Pérez M.F.
Published: November 2013

Agricultural activity in Galicia, North West Spain, is carried out on farms that are characterized by a diversity of land use and production models, a variety of farm sizes, and considerable geographical dispersion. Any attempt of Agricultural Production Planning aimed at characterizing production models requires a method of analysing data and obtaining technicaleconomic results from farms in the different areas. Models based on average statistical data are limited because they represent farms that do not exist in reality. This study develops a methodology to characterize and group dairy farms into different types according to the following basic variables: land use, size classes and production systems. The information used in this study was microdata from the 1999 Census of Agriculture. The methodology developed was also applied to microdata from the 1989 Census of Agriculture, thus obtaining significant information about the evolution of agricultural activity. The tools used in the analysis were Microsoft Access and Excel, and an application that was developed using Microsoft Visual Basic. The methodology presented can be used to analyse the evolution of the sector or to model future trends.
Short communication. Cotton cultivars with moderate resistance to African cotton mosaic virus
Authors: Alegbejo M. , Onu I. , Banwo O.O.
Published: November 2013

A 3 year screening of 25 long staple cotton cultivars for resistance to African cotton mosaic virus (ACMoV) conducted in northern Nigeria during the 1999-2001 wet seasons indicated that no cultivar was immune or resistant. Two cultivars, Pima S1 and Pima S4 were moderately resistant (16% infection), four cultivars Pima S2, Pima S3, Giza 45 and Giza 69 were moderately susceptible (31% infection), while the remaining 19 cultivars were highly susceptible. The moderately resistant cultivars are high yielding, have high quality lint characteristics such as crin percentage, bundle strength, and micronaire fineness. They can be used to reduce the menace caused by ACMoV on cotton in Nigeria.
Short communication. Irrigation temperature effects on seedling growth and transplant quality of tomato, pepper and eggplant
Authors: Kadri Bozokalfa M.
Published: November 2013

During production of plug transplants, high plant density and small cell size increases seedling height. The resulting tall, weak-stemmed, plants are difficult to transplant and can be easily damaged. One technique that can prevent excessive seedling elongation is irrigation with cold water. Seedlings of tomato, pepper and eggplant were planted in cell plug trays in greenhouses and irrigated daily, in the morning, with water at different temperatures. The temperaturas tested were 3°C, 9°C and tap water (15.5-16.5°C). Irrigation with cold water reduced seedling stem height by 48-58% in tomato, 24-42% in pepper and 17-36% in eggplant. Cold water irrigation significantly affected stem diameter, number of leaves, shoot and root dry weights and leaf chlorophyll content. These results show that irrigation with cold water can effectively control plant height in plug-grown seedlings.
Short communication. Biological fixation of nitrogen and N balance in soybean crops in the pampas region
Authors: Di Ciocco C. , Coviella C. , Penón E. , Díaz-Zorita M. , López S.
Published: November 2013

Biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) is of key importance in the N balance of soybean (Glycine max) crops. A number of authors have suggested that a negative balance may occur under high yield conditions. Few studies have measured the contribution of BNF to soil N in the pampas region. The aims of the present study were to compare three BNF determination methods – two isotopic methods using sorghum or a non-nodulating soybean isoline as a reference crop, and one involving the calculation of the difference in N content between the nodulating and non-nodulating soybean isolines – and to estimate the N balance in soybean crops raised under conventional tillage and no tillage practices. The study was performed in 2004-2005; a complete randomised block design was used with three replicates (plot dimensions 3 × 7 m). The different methodologies estimated BNF to account for 45-58% of total plant N, equivalent to 94 to 123 kg N ha-1. Depending on the methodology for estimating the BNF the soil N balance varied between –7 and 22 kg N ha-1. With an average grain yield of 1,618 kg ha-1 and a BNF accounting for approximately 50% of total plant N (i.e.,115 kg N ha-1), the soil N balance was slightly positive (14 kg ha-1) and independent of the tillage practice. The tillage systems had no effect (P < 0.05) on the mass or number of nodules, shoot biomass production at the R1 or R6 growth stages, the N content, BNF, or grain yield. Since the present results were obtained using non-commercial soybean isolines, further research is required to determine the soil N balance when high yielding soybean crops are raised.
Energy ratio analysis of genetically-optimized potato for ethanol production in the Chilean market
Authors: Contreras A. , Díaz G. , Gallardo L. , Loaiza R.
Published: November 2013

The continuous increase in energy demand, the high cost of imported oil, and the growing concerns about climate change have sparked a number of initiatives from governments around the world to increase production of energy from renewable sources. Along these lines, the Chilean government is analyzing the introduction of a law to set a reference value of 5% of biofuel production to be placed on the market by 2013. The analysis of different options to meet this new regulatory measure needs to consider different alternatives such as biodiesel and bioethanol from crops or lignocellulosic biomass. This paper analyzes the energy ratio of some of the most common crops grown in Chile that can be utilized for ethanol production. Using a methodology adapted to local conditions of agriculture and transportation, the results indicate that a potato cultivar specially bred for high yield, high starch and dry matter content can obtain a positive net energy balance with an energy ratio of 1.8. The results also show yields near 60 tons ha–1 which translate to approximately 9,000 L ha–1 of ethanol making the genetically optimized cultivar of potato a suitable local source for ethanol production.