bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Scheme for Face Recognition in Complex Environments
Authors: Cui Wei , Yan Wei Qi
Published: January 2016

In this paper, the authors propose a scheme for human face recognition in complex environments. The proposed scheme consists of three phases: moving object removal, face detection and face recognition. It could be applied to certain specific environments such as computer users in office, shopping mall, and reception or pokie machine gamblers in casinos. In these environments, the target human face for recognizing will be considered as the foreground and the moving objects (such as cars, walking persons etc) as the background. The objective of this paper is to implement a scheme for human face recognition so as to improve recognition precision and reduce false alarms. The scheme can be applied to prevent computer users or gamblers from sitting too long in front of the screens in offices or pokie machines in casinos. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first time face recognition in complex environments has been taken into consideration.
The Effect of E-Service Quality on Football Fan Satisfaction and Fan Loyalty toward the Websites of Their Favorable Football Teams
Authors: Pool Javad Khazaei , Dehghan Ali , Jamkhaneh Hadi Balouei , Jaberi Akbar , Sharifkhani Maryam
Published: January 2016

The purpose of the current study was to examine the effect of electronic service quality on fan satisfaction and fan loyalty in the online environment. Selection of three hundred and fifty-six fans of a famous sports club was through random sampling using the club's website. AMOS used structural equation modeling for data analysis. Results provided strong support on the effect of electronic service quality (E-S-QUAL) on fan satisfaction and fan loyalty toward the website of their favorable football teams. Business enterprises have well researched e-service quality and loyalty. However, limited research exists in the sports context. This paper provides valuable insight into the measurement of e-service quality and fan loyalty in the sport and offers a foundation for future marketing research.
The Smart City and its Citizens
Authors: Capra Carlo Francesco
Published: January 2016

Smart cities are associated almost exclusively with modern technology and infrastructure. However, smart cities have the possibility to enhance the involvement and contribution of citizens to urban development. This work explores the role of governance as one of the factors influencing the participation of citizens in smart cities projects. Governance characteristics play a major role in explaining different typologies of citizen participation. Through a focus on Amsterdam Smart City program as a specific case study, this research examines the characteristics of governance that are present in the overall program and within a selected sample of projects, and how they relate to different typologies of citizen participation. The analysis and comprehension of governance characteristics plays a crucial role both for a better understanding and management of citizen participation, especially in complex settings where multiple actors are interacting.
Rough Set Based Similarity Measures for Data Analytics in Spatial Epidemiology
Authors: K. Sharmila Banu , Tripathy B.K.
Published: January 2016

Epidemiological studies are carried out to understand the pattern and transmission of disease instances. Some prominent dimensions considered for analysis are cohort studies, ecological studies, transmission modeling and prediction. ‘Descriptive Epidemiology' is defined with respect to ‘people, time and place'. Place (geography) plays a key role in the pattern of disease outcomes in both epidemic outbreaks and chronic cases. A lot of research has documented the significance of spatial features in Epidemiology and have produced health/disease maps of a particular geography. This work proposes to identify similarity between regions in such maps using Rough set based measures. Thus spatial auto-correlation of disease instances in a geographic region can be analysed further to prepare mitigation strategies.
Integrating Systems Modelling and Data Science
Authors: Pruyt Erik
Published: January 2016

Although System Dynamics modelling is sometimes referred to as data-poor modelling, it often is –or could be– applied in a data-rich manner. However, more can be done in the era of ‘big data'. Big data refers here to situations with much more available data than was until recently manageable. The field of data science makes big(ger) data manageable. This paper provides a perspective on the future of System Dynamics with a prominent place for bigger data and data science. It discusses different approaches for dealing with bigger data. It reviews methods, techniques and tools for dealing with bigger data in System Dynamics, and sheds light on the modelling phases for which data science is most useful. Finally, it provides several examples of current applications in which big data, data science, and System Dynamics modelling and simulation are being merged.
Holistic Approach for Balanced Scorecard as Managerial Decision Making Tool
Authors: Baporikar Neeta
Published: January 2016

Recent times have seen the supply side of management knowledge be it consultants, management gurus, business schools and popular press invent and diffuse countless managerial tools at a rapid-fire rate. One such tool is the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) that has been glorified and hyped as a great innovation of nineties. Through exhaustive literature and grounded theory approach, this paper examines some theoretical and methodological issues of BSC to develop a holistic perspective when adopting BSC as a managerial tool. The main purpose hereto is not to question BSC but rather to create a more holistic and down to earth picture of the tool in the minds of actual and potential users especially when adopting it as managerial tool in dynamic decision making. In the process some of the debatable aspects of BSC, contrary to the mainstream BSC literature which enthusiastically consecrates the tool stand visible.
Reaching an AIDS-Free Generation in Côte d'Ivoire, Data Driven Policy Design for HIV/AIDS Response Programs
Authors: Gonçalves Paulo , Kamdem Simplice Takoubo
Published: January 2016

Sub-Saharan Africa is home to 24.7 million people living with HIV of an estimated total of 35.0 million people globally in 2013. It also accounts for almost 70% of the new HIV infections globally. In West Africa, Cote d'Ivoire has the highest HIV prevalence, or 3.7% of the 2012 population, and the two virus types (HIV-1 & HIV-2) are present. From an epidemiological standpoint, these unique attributes make Cote d'Ivoire unique. At the same time, existing HIV/AIDS modeling policies have being developed from the data of countries that do not have these peculiarities. This research develops a formal system dynamics model capturing the evolution of HIV/AIDS in Cote d'Ivoire for four decades, starting in 1990. The findings include a development of HIV/AIDS behavior pattern over time that led to the proposal of evidence-based policies.
Internet of Things Service Provisioning Platform for Cross-Application Cooperation
Authors: Zhao Shuai , Cheng Bo , Yu Le , Hou Shou-lu , Zhang Yang , Chen Jun-liang
Published: January 2016

With the development of Internet of Things (IoT), large-scale of resources and applications atop them emerge. However, most of existing efforts are “silo” solutions, there is a tight-coupling between the device and the application. The paradigm for IoT and its corresponding infrastructure are required to move away from isolated solutions towards cooperative models. Recent works have focused on applying Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) to IoT service provisioning. Other than the traditional services of cyberspace which are oriented to a two-tuple problem domain, IoT services are faced with a three-tuple problem domain of user requirement, cyberspace and physical space. One challenge of existing works is lacking of efficient mechanism to on-demand provisioning the sensing information in a loosely-coupled, decentralized way and then dynamically coordinate the relevant services to rapidly respond to changes in the physical world. Another challenge is how to systematically and effectively access (plug) the heterogeneous devices without intrusive changing. This paper proposes a service provisioning platform which enables to access heterogeneous devices and expose device capabilities as light-weighted service, and presents an event-based message interaction mode to facilitate the asynchronous, on-demand sharing of sensing information in distributed, loosely-coupled IoT environment. It provides the basic infrastructure for IoT application pattern: inner-domain high-degree autonomy and inter-domain dynamic coordination. The practicability of platform is validated by experimental evaluations and a District Heating Control and Information System (DHCIS).
An Automatic Recovery Mechanism for Cloud Service Composition
Authors: Li Wenrui , Cheng Yan , Zhang Pengcheng , Leung Hareton
Published: January 2016

Cloud computing, with characteristics of large scale computation, data storage, visualization, high expansibility and elasticity, provides a powerful computing paradigm. Cloud services can be rapidly composed to form on-demand composite service for accomplishing the users' requirements. However, the uncertainty of cloud services has impacted on the correctness and reliability of the composite services. Especially, for unanticipated hardware and software failures, it is very difficult to assure the quality of the composite services. In the complex cloud computing environments, recovery of the composite services from these failures is a challenging issue. The paper first presents a unified fault taxonomy in the three layers of cloud computing and analyze the causes of the faults. The authors then propose a hierarchical recovery mechanism including five different recovery algorithms for various kinds of failures. Finally, through the simulation experiments they validate the proposed approach to be effective and practical.
Degree of Esterification and Gelling Properties of Pectin Structure in Coffee Pulp
Authors: Rakitikul Waleepan , Nimmanpipug Piyarat
Published: January 2016

Pectin is a high value functional food ingredient widely used as a gelling agent and stabilizer. The chemical structure of pectin has been the subject of scientific investigations for decades. Coffee producers remove beans; the other source of pectin, from coffee cherries is thrown away. Our study showed that pectin extracted from coffee pulp has high degree of esterification and methoxyl content of 93.75% and 7.87 respectively, which indicated good gelation properties. Nevertheless, here we were interested in the primary structure of pectin which is a complex polysaccharides that contains 1, 4-linked a-D-galactosyluronic acid (GalpA) residue. A theoretical dimension, density functional theory (DFT) with Generalized Gradient Approximation (GGA)/ BLYP functions, was utilized to study methylester substitution in pectin model compounds. For further discussion, the use of a COSMO model in different solvent showed the significant results in the difference torsion angle and HOMO diagram.
Enhanced Antibacterial Activity by Au Nanoparticle Decorated ZnO Nanorods
Authors: Sornsanit Kanya , Horprathum Mati , Eiamchai Pitak , Chananonnawathorn Chanunthorn , Kalasung Sukon , Kaewkhao Jakrapong
Published: January 2016

Gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) decorated on zinc oxide nanorods (ZnO NRs) arrays by combining hydrothermal method toward ZnO nanorods template and subsequent decoration on Au NPs on the ZnO surfaces by DC magnetron sputtering. The hybrids Au NPs-ZnO NRs were characterized using field-emission scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The average diameter and length of ZnO NRs template were estimate at 80 and 430 nm, respectively. In addition, antibacterial tests confirmed that adding Au NPs enhances antibacterial effect.
Growth of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Graphene Assembly Using to Detect of Acetone Concentrations
Authors: Rattanaveeranon Santi , Ruamnikhom R. , Pangmanayon S.
Published: January 2016

Graphene is of apply in wide range of research fields and may even motivate researchers to develop a new hybrid material with experience properties. In this works, growth of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) using chemical reduction method was reported. Particle size, morphology and crystal structure of ZnO/rGO were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique, respectively. Sensing application of ZnO/rGO was discovered. ZnO/rGO was used as an active material for sensing acetone diluted in water. The preliminary results showed that the sensitivity of acetone sensor.
Preparation of Nanosized Manganese Oxide Particles via Solid-State Route Reaction
Authors: Phoohinkong Weerachon , Sukonket Thitinat
Published: January 2016

nanosized manganese oxide particles are attracted considerable interest in many industry areas especially in energy storage device applications because of their unique properties. For industry large scale synthesis, it needs a simple and low energy technique for scaling up production process. In this work, nanosized manganese oxide particles were prepared via a solid-state reaction route at room temperature. The products were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction infrared spectroscopy (XRD), and raman spectroscopy. The results show that the sizes of particles were smaller than 50 nm with narrow size distribution and high yield were obtained. In addition, this technique may be applicable to industry production of nanosized manganese oxide or nanosized manganese oxide composite.
Vertical Alignment TiO2 Nanotube Based on Ti Film Prepared via Anodization Technique
Authors: Aiempanakit Kamon , Jessadaluk Sukittaya , Tongmaha Sunisa , Supati Attawit , Khemasiri Narathon , Pornthreeraphat Supanit , Horprathum Mati , Patthanasetakul Viyapon , Eiamchai Pitak
Published: January 2016

A highly ordered nanotube TiO2 was successfully prepared from sputtered Ti metal film using anodization process. Ethylene glycol and ammonium fluoride was introduced as the electrolyte solution. The applied of anodizing voltage was systematically controlled between 20 - 60 volts along fabrication process, respectively. The physical characteristic of the fabricated TiO2 nanotube including anodizing rate, tube diameter and tube width was investigated through the characterization system as field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM). According to cross-section FE-SEM photograph, the anodizing rate and tube width significantly increases when the anodizing voltage was future increased due to higher the electric field. Moreover, the tube diameter directly depends with the anodizing voltage also. The anodizing voltage provides a significant role on the feature of TiO2 nanotube. Finally, the fabricated nanotube TiO2 is potentially promising for Photo-activated application and Nanostructure template.
A Study and Characterization of Photophysical Properties of Fluorene Derivative Thin Film
Authors: Sirijarutus Wattanaruk , Charoensuwan Sittan , Thanakit Pawonwan , Pratontep Sirapat , Sae-Tang Phromyothin Darinee
Published: January 2016

An emissive layer, fluorene derivative, was performed for organic light-emitting device properties. The preparation of fluorene derivative thin film by spin coating and convective technique was studied the band diagram of thin films which its properties out as the energy gap (Eg). UV-Visible spectrophotometer has been used to investigate the thin film properties. The results indicates spectacular property which occurs the optical properties, fluorescence in thin film and luminescence as a green light in device that it could be applied as emissive layer for organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) since the appropriate work function with cathode and anode, aluminum metal and indium tin oxide layer (ITO), respectively.
Additive SnO2-ZnO Composite Films for Photocatalytic Degradation Efficiency of Organic Dye
Authors: Sujinnapram Supphadate , Moungsrijun Sasimonton
Published: January 2016

SnO2-ZnO composite films were employed as photocatalytic degradation of organic dye. SnO2 and ZnO were mixed in polyethylene glycol solution with various weight ratios of SnO2. The composite paste was screened onto glass substrate with active area of 1 cm2 and annealed at 400 °C. The photocatalytic activity of composite films for the degradation of Eosin-Y dye was investigated under UV light irradiation. It was found that the normalized absorbance of dye solution decreased after treatment indicated that dye molecules were reduced. The composite films showed better degradation efficiency than conventional ZnO films due to reduced recombination encourage longer reaction time of electron and hole with surrounded environment. The optimized weight ratio of 30% showed the highest degradation rate constant and the lowest half lift.
The Isotope Effect Coefficient with Pseudogap and One-Band Superconductor
Authors: Chanpoom Thaipanya
Published: January 2016

This research studied the isotope effect coefficient of high temperature superconductors. The model used one-band superconductor which considered the competition of superconducting gap and pseudogap in the below crossover temperature region. The isotope effect coefficient is derived and approximation in simplify form. We find that the isotope effect coefficient is decreased as the critical temperature Tc and the crossover temperature T* ratio Tc/T* increased.
Investigation of Structural and Thermoelectric Properties of Lead Telluride Thin Films Deposited by DC Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Sumphao Theerawut , Vora-Ud Arthon , Thaowankaew Somporn , Phewphong Sunti , Khottoommee Nuttee , Seetawan Tosawat
Published: January 2016

We prepare Lead Telluride (PbTe) thin film by DC magnetron sputtering method. The powder precursors of Pb and Te purity 99.99 % ratio 1:1 were mixed. PbTe Powder was pressed using as sputtering target. DC magnetron sputtering condition, the base pressure is 3.2×10−3 Torr, applied the argon gas (purity 99.99%) in vacuum chamber to obtained working pressure at 50×10−3 Torr. The sputtering power is 25 W and sputtering time is 30 minutes. Phase identification, morphology and film thickness have been investigated by X−ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope. Electrical resistivity and Seebeck coefficient of the PbTe thin films have been investigated by four probe steady state method. The results demonstrated that the crystal phase of PbTe is face center cubic (FCC) structure. The average PbTe films yielded film thickness is around 460 nm, the average electrical resistivity is 17 Ω m and seebeck coefficient is 8.0×10−5 V K─1.
Power Factor of Germanium Antimony Tellurium Thin Film on Al2O3 Ceramic Substrate Deposited by Pulsed–DC Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Vora-Ud Athorn , Thoawankaew Somporn , Horprathum Mati , Muthitamongkol Pennapa , Eiamchai Pitak , Thanachayanont Chanchana , Somkhunthot Weerasak , Seetawan Tosawat
Published: January 2016

Germanium–Antimony–Telluride (Ge–Sb–Te) has low electrical resistivity and thermal conductivity for good thermoelectric properties. The Ge–Sb–Te thin films were deposited on Al2O3 ceramic substrate by pulsed–dc magnetron sputtering system using a 99.99 % Ge:Sb:Te of 1:1:1 composite target and annealed at 573, 623, 673, and 723 K for 1 hour in vacuum. The phase identification, atomic composition, morphology and film thickness (d), carrier concentration (n), mobility (µ), Seebeck coefficient (S) and electrical resistivity (ρ) of the as–deposited and the annealed samples were investigated by X–ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X–ray spectroscopy (EDX), field–emission scanning electron microscopy (FE–SEM), Hall–effect measurement, steady state method and calculation of from n and µ, respectively. The results demonstrated that the as–deposited Ge–Sb–Te film showed amorphous phase and annealing changed the phase crystalline. Morphologies of annealed Ge–Sb–Te films showed very large grain size and porosity to obtaining good n and µ. The approximately maximum power factor (P) was 4.22×10−4 W m−1 K−2 at annealing temperature of 723 K.
Development of Microemulsion of Phytosteryl Glycoside in DMSO and Tween 20 for Increase Antiamoebic Activity
Authors: Sangsuwon Chanyapat , Jirujchariyakul Weena
Published: January 2016

Peperomia
pellucida (Piperaceae) of Thai name “Phak kra sang” is medicinal plant. They are eaten in a salad or as cooked vegetable for protected glaucoma, eye inflammation. Recently, The methanol fraction of P. pellucida was tested for antiamoebic effect. Acanthamoeba spp. are protozoa, free-living in the environment and feed on bacteria. Acanthamoeba spp. are the causative agents of Acanthamoeba keratitis. P. pellucida is medicinal plants, and was interesting for studied antiamobic. The separation by column chromatography (CC) used organic solvent of methanol and ethyl acetate (3:7) gave phytosteryl glycoside (PG). Acanthamoeba spp. was cultured in normal saline and PG is organic compound which was poor soluble in normal saline. This study was developed microemulsion (ME) of PG for effective of antiamoebic activity. Pseudo-ternary phase diagram used for identify ME region. The consisting of ME were dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), Tween 20, water and PG. Formulations were prepared with prior mixture of DMSO: Tween20 (co-surfactant: surfactant) in four volume ratio 1:1, 2:1, 3:1 and 4:1 which is each of ratio of Smix. PG was concentrated in 200μg/ml in ethanol. Forming of colloids used Smix in ratios 3:1and 4:1.The stability of ME was ratio was PG: Smix water (1: 9: 4.5). The optimized ME formulation and characterized by zeta potential were found to be 121-397 nm, and conductivity-7.0 mV. Under light microscope ME was absorbed into the endocyst of Acanthamoeb spp., and detected the dead cysts by staining of toluidine blue. IC50 showed 0.88 μg/ml for antiamoebic activity.
Highly Sensitive H2 Sensors Based on Pd- and PdO-Decorated TiO2 Thin Films at Low-Temperature Operation
Authors: Samransuksamer Benjarong , Jutarosaga Tula , Horprathum Mati , Wisitsoraat Anurat , Eiamchai Pitak , Limwichean Saksorn , Patthanasettakul Viyapol , Chananonnawathorn Chanunthorn , Chindaudom Pongpan
Published: January 2016

Abstract In this work, the low-temperature H2-sensing properties of palladium (Pd) and palladium oxide (PdO) nanoparticles decorated titanium dioxide (TiO2) thin film were studied. The TiO2 thin films were prepared by the dc reactive magnetron sputtering. The Pd and PdO nanoparticles were sputtered on the top surface of TiO2 surface in order to enhance the sensitivity to the H2 gas. Morphologies, crystal structures, and chemical element of the examiner samples were investigated by the field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), grazing-incident X-ray diffraction (GIXRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), respectively. The effects of the Pd and PdO nanoparticles on H2-sensing performance of TiO2 were investigated over a low concentration range of 150-3,000 ppm H2 at 50-250°C-operating temperatures. This result exhibited that the PdO decorated on TiO2 surface showed very high response to H2 at a low operating temperature of 150°C.
Characterizations of YBa5Cu6Ox Superconductor Synthesized by Melt Process
Authors: Chainok Piyamas , Sujinnapram Supphadate , Khuntak Thanarat , Nilkamjon Tunyanop , Ratreng Sermsuk , Udomsamuthirun Pongkaew
Published: January 2016

The YBa5Cu6Ox (Y156) superconductors were synthesized by melt process method with sintering at 980 °C. The samples were characterized by the SEM, EDX, XRD and resistance measurement. The critical temperature onset () and the critical temperature offset () were found at 90 K and 80 K respectively. The crystal structures was orthorhombic performed by Rietveld full-profile analysis method with lattice parameter a = 3.80078 Å, b = 3.89068 Å and c = 22.94436 Å. The c/a ratio was 6.04 and the anisotropy was 2.33. The lower c/a ratio and higher anisotropic were found as increasing the sintering temperature with little change in a and b-axis value. We found that as increasing of sintering temperature, the critical temperature was decreased but the anisotropy was increased.
Reducing Sugar Production from Agricultural Wastes by Acid Hydrolysis
Authors: Kleawkla Achara , Chuenkruth Pannarai
Published: January 2016

Sugar is very important raw material of many industries such as food, beverage and renewable energy. In this research, pretreatment and hydrolysis of agricultural wastes to produce reducing sugars for an ethanol production were investigated. The rice stalk and corn stover from agricultural wastes were firstly pretreated with sodium hydroxide at 121 °C in different time as 20 30 and 40 minutes for removal of lignin. After that, the condition of hydrolysis using sulfuric acid of the pretreated rice stalk and corn stover was optimized. The optimum condition that obtained the highest reducing sugar content from rice stalk and corn stover of 76.12 and 136.25 mg/ml were using 1.0 % v/v sulfuric acid at temperature of 121 °C for a hydrolysis time of 40 minutes. This research made value adding in the industrial processing, decrease environmental problem and reduce global warming crisis by optimized utilization of agricultural waste.
Fabrication and Properties of Soda-Lime Borate Glass Doped with Fe2O3
Authors: Ruengsri Suwimon , Kaewkhao Jakrapong , Srisittipokakun Nattapon
Published: January 2016

In this work, Fe2O3 doped in soda lime borate glasses were prepared in the composition (65-x) B2O3: 10CaO: 25Na2O: xFe2O3 % mol, (where x is 0.0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 and 1.0 %mol) by melt quenching technique. The densities, refractive indices, optical spectra and colors were investigated as a function of Fe2O3 concentration. The result found that when increasing of Fe2O3, the absorption peak of Fe3+ ion at 420 nm were increased correspond to the yellow color in glasses, which measured by CIE L*a*b* color coordinate. Refractive indices and densities were increased with higher Fe2O3 concentration.
Luminescence Properties of Nd3+ Ions Doped in CaO-Y2O3-SiO2-B2O3 Glasses
Authors: Chanthima Natthakridta , Kaewkhao Jakrapong
Published: January 2016

Calcium yttrium silicoborate glasses doped with different Nd3+ ion concentrations have been prepared using the melt quenching technique at 1400 °C. Physical, optical and luminescence properties of glass samples were investigated. The density and molar volume measurements were carried out at room temperature. The results show that, the density and molar volume of glass samples not deepened on the concentration of Nd2O3. Absorption spectra were investigated in the UV–VIS–NIR region from 200 to 2500 nm. It was observed that the absorption bands have 8 peaks with corresponding to 467, 521, 584, 638, 682, 747, 805 and 877 nm. The luminescence properties were investigated in the NIR region. On excitation, with 584 and 805 nm, it is found that the emission peaks are located at 896 (904), 1060 and 1332 nm that correspond to the emission transitions from 4F3/2 to 4I9/2, 4I11/2 and 4I13/2, respectively. The NIR luminescence intensity obtained with 584 nm excitation was stronger than 805 nm.
Photoluminescence Properties of CaO-BaO-P2O5 Glass Systems Doped with Sm3+
Authors: Tariwong Yaowaluk , Chanthima Natthakridta , Kaewkhao Jakrapong , Sangwaranatee Narong , Kim Hong Joo
Published: January 2016

This paper reports on physical, optical and photoluminescence properties of Sm3+doped calcium barium phosphate (CaO: BaO: P2O5: Sm2O3) glass systems. The glass samples have been prepared by the melt-quenching technique at 1200°C. It was found that the density of glasses tended to increase with increasing of Sm2O3 concentration. While, the molar volume of glasses tended to decrease with increasing of Sm2O3 concentration higher than 0.1 mol%. The absorption spectra of glasses were recorded in the ultraviolet visible near infrared (UV-Vis-NIR) region. The absorption bands centered at 374, 402, 416, 438, 473, 527, 946, 1083, 1236, 1382, 1483, 1531 and 1977 nm, respectively have been observed. The emission spectra of glass samples centered at 561, 597, 643 and 704 nm corresponding to the energy levels from 4G5/2 to 6H5/2, 6H7/2, 6H9/2 and 6H11/2, respectively have been observed with 402 nm excitation wavelength.
Preparation and Properties of La2O3-CaO-P2O5 Glasses Doped with Eu3+ Ions
Authors: Luewarasirikul Narun , Meejitpaisan Piyachat , Kaewkhao Jakrapong
Published: January 2016

Lanthanum calcium phosphate glasses doped with Eu3+ ions in compositions 20La2O3:10CaO:(70-x)P2O5:xEu2O3 (where x = 0.05, 0.10, 0.50 and 1.50 mol%) were prepared by melt-quenching technique. The density and molar volume measurements were carried out at room temperature. The absorption spectra were investigated in the UV-Vis-NIR region from 200 to 2500 nm. The emission spectra of Eu3+-doped glasses centered at 590 nm (5D0→7F1), 612 nm (5D0→7F2), 652 nm (5D0→7F3) and 699 nm (5D0→7F4) have been observed with 393 nm excitation wavelength.
Properties and Investigation on Effect of Eu3+ Ions in Lithium Barium Borate Glasses
Authors: Damdee Benchaphorn , Kirdsiri Keerati , Kaewkhao Jakrapong
Published: January 2016

Eu3+-doped lithium barium borate glasses of the composition 50Li2O : 20BaO : (30-x)B2O3 : xEu2O3, where x = 0.00, 0.10, 0.30, 0.50, and 1.00 mol%. The glasses were fabricated by normal melt quenching technique at 1,000°C and their properties were investigated. The emission spectra of Eu3+-doped glasses were recorded in wavelength range of 550-770 nm with 394 nm excitation. All the spectra exhibited 5 emission bands corresponding to the 5D0→7F0, 5D0→7F1, 5D0→7F2, 5D0→7F3 and 5D0→7F4 transition, respectively. The peak intensities increase with the increase of concentration from 0.10 to 1.0 mol%
Luminescence Characteristics of Li2O3:Gd2O3:B2O3:Dy2O3 Glasses System
Authors: Boonin Kitipun , Sa-Ardsin Warawut , Kaewkhao Jakrapong
Published: January 2016

Melt quenching technique have been used to prepare the dysprosium-doped lithium-gadolinium borate glasses, which have the composition [60Li2O:10Gd2O3:(30-x) B2O3:xDy2O3] (LGBO:Dy3+), under atmospheric pressure. Some properties: density, molar volume, absorption spectra and photoluminescence of the LGBO:Dy3+ glasses were investigated and discussed. The density of glasses drops to the minimum point at 0.05 mol% and swings after that point. The molar volume of the glasses does not depend on Dy2O3concentration. In absorption spectra for the range of visible to near infrared wavelengths, there are 5 obvious peaks indicating the Dy3+ in glass network. The intensity of each peak at certain wavelength increases with concentration of the Dy2O3. Whereas the excitation spectra show 7 obvious peaks representing the transitions from the ground state 6H15/2to various excited states. The Xenon compact arc lamps were used to measure the emission spectra with 388 nm light. As the result, the LGBO:Dy3+ glass sample with 0.50 mol% of Dy3+ shows the highest intensity in the emission spectra.
Application of Chitosan Film for the Removal of Triclosan from Aqueous Solutions by Adsorption
Authors: Noirod Peeyanan , Lamangthong Jittapat , Ninjiaranai Padarat
Published: January 2016

The aim of this work was to study the adsorption efficiency of chitosan as an adsorbent for triclosan, commercially known as Irgasan, in aqueous solutions. The effects of contact time, pH and temperature were investigated using a batch adsorption technique. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were used to analyze the equilibrium data at different absorption conditions. The results showed that the maximum adsorption capacity for chitosan was found in the acidic pH 3 and at a temperature of 65 oC. These results suggested that chitosan can be used as an adsorbent for removal of triclosan from aqueous solutions.
Characterization and Spectral Selectivity of Sn-Al2O3 Solar Absorber
Authors: Chorchong Titiporn , Suriwong Tawat , Sukchai Sukruedee , Threrujirapapong Thotsaphon
Published: January 2016

In present work, tin-pigmented alumina (Sn-Al2O3) solar absorber on the aluminium substrate was successfully prepared by anodic anodization and further characterized by different methods. The phase, morphology, reflectance (R) and thermal conductivity of the Sn-Al2O3 solar absorber were measured by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analyzer, and Ultraviolet-visible-near infrared spectrophotometer in the wavelength of 300-2500 nm. The solar absorptance (α) was calculated based on the relationship of the spectral reflectance, R(λ), and the solar spectral irradiance of AM 1.5, Is(λ), in the wavelength interval of 300-2500 nm. As the results, the surface color of the Sn-Al2O3 film was dark-black color. The XRD pattern of Sn-Al2O3 films was indexed as aluminium and tin phases. The chemical composition of the Sn-Al2O3 films composed of tin (Sn), aluminum (Al) and oxygen (O) elements. The average thickness of the produced films was 18.9 μm. It was found that Sn-Al2O3 films showed the low R (0.09) and high α (0.93) values for the whole wavelength 300-2500 nm, corresponding to theoretical properties of the solar absorber. Therefore, it can be concluded that the Sn-Al2O3 film on aluminium substrate can be applied to be the solar absorber in solar collector due to high α, which is similar to the commercial solar absorbers.
Hydrothermal Synthesis and Characterization of ZnO:F Nanorod Structure
Authors: Sinornate Wuttichai , Chongsri Krisana , Pecharapa Wisanu
Published: January 2016

F-doped ZnO nanorod structures were synthesized via hydrothermal process with variation of doping content starting from zinc nitrate solution and zinc oxide thin film used as seeding layer. The zinc oxide seeding film was fabricated by spin coating on glass substrate using zinc acetate precursor and annealed at 500 °C for 2 h. Relevant properties of ZnO:F nanorod structures were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and UV-VIS spectrophotometer. Corresponding results indicated that ZnO:F nanorod array, grown in (002) plane, has the characteristics of good crystallinity. In addition, this study showed that ZnO:F nanorod with exceptional structure can be obtained by hydrothermal process, operated at proper treatment time, temperature and F-doping content.
Dielectric and Mechanical Properties of Mullite/Modified BaTiO3 Composites
Authors: Lertcumfu Narumon , Sanjoom Kachaporn , Arkornsakul Pongthep , Sweatman Denis Russell , Phatungthane Thanatep , Chokethawai Komsanti , Rujijanagul Gobwut
Published: January 2016

Composites between mullite and modified BT were prepared by a conventional technique. The samples were calcined at 1300 °C for 2 h. The composites were sintered at 1250 °C for 2 h. The dielectric and mechanical properties the samples were investigated. The mechanical properties were found to improve after sintering at a suitable temperature. Addition of the BT produced an improvement in dielectric constant due to the BT has high piezoelectric properties. A higher dielectric constant for a sample contained higher amount of the BT was related with a higher polarization in the samples.
Effect of Sintering Condition on Electrical Properties of PLZT Ceramics
Authors: Funsueb Narit , Ngamjarurojana Athipong , Limpichaipanit Apichart
Published: January 2016

Feroelectric lead lanthanum zirconate titanate (PLZT) ceramics 9/70/30 were synthesized by conventional mixed-oxide method via a vibro-milling technique. The effect of sintering temperature and two-stage sintering method on electrical properties of PLZT ceramics was investigated. The ceramic powder was uniaxially pressed in pellets and sintered at the temperatures ranging from 1200 to 1275 °C for 4hrs and two-stage sintering temperature at 1200 °C for 4 hrs. Dielectric, ferroelectric and strain properties of ceramics were characterized by LCR meter, modified Sawyer–Tower Circuit and modified Michelson interferometric technique respectively.
Effect of Zn:Sn Ratio and Calcination Temperature on Phase Transformation of Zn-Sn-O Compound
Authors: Nakhanivej Puritut , Tangcharoen Thanit , Mekprasart Wanichaya , Pecharapa Wisanu
Published: January 2016

Zn-Sn-O powders were synthesized by simple co-precipitation method combined with calcination process using zinc chloride (ZnCl2) and tin (IV) chloride pentrahydrate (SnCl45H2O) as starting precursors of Zn and Sn in aqueous solution. The effect of precursors ratio on phase structure of Zn-Sn-O compound was investigated by varying ratio of Zn:Sn in the co-precipitation system. For the effect of calcination temperature, the as-precipitated product obtained at Zn:Sn ratio of 1:1 was calcined at different temperatures (400-900 °C) to study phase transformation. Structural properties of as-precipitated and after-calcined powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) while surface morphologies of final products were observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was used to study their thermal properties. The results indicate that the XRD pattern of Zn-Sn-O powders obtained at ratio of Zn greater than Sn can be assigned to mixed phase of ZnO and Zn2SnO4. On the other hand the XRD patterns of products obtained at ratio of Sn greater than Zn confirm a mixture of SnO2 and Zn2SnO4. For the effect of calcination temperature, the rarely spinel phase of Zn2SnO4 begin occur with mixed phase of ZnO and SnO2 at the calcination temperature of 600 °C and pure spinel structure can be obtained at the temperature above 900 °C.
Effects of Ga Content on Optical and Scintillation Properties in Ce3+-Doped YGd2(Al,Ga)5O12 Scintillators
Authors: Chewpraditkul Warut , Pattanaboonmee Nakarin , Wantong Kriangkrai , Chewpraditkul Weerapong , Babin Vladimir , Nikl Martin , Kamada Kei , Yoshikawa Akira
Published: January 2016

The optical and scintillation properties of Ce3+-doped YGd2(Al,Ga)5O12 single crystal scintillators were investigated. The Ce3+ 5d-4f emission was blue-shifted with increasing Ga content due to the decrease of the crystal field strength. Temperature dependence of the photoluminescence decay times was measured and the thermal activation energy for the luminescence quenching was calculated. Light yield (LY) and its dependence on an integration time were measured under γ-ray excitation. The fast component content in the scintillation response increases with increasing Ga content. The YGd2Al2Ga3O12:Ce sample showed a high LY of 38,000 photons/MeV. The decrease of LY value observed for a YGd2Al1Ga4O12:Ce sample is mainly due to the thermal ionization of the 5d1 excited state of the Ce3+ emission center to the conduction band.
Preparation of Spherical Rice Husk Zeolite NaY Granules for Adsorption of Cu2+
Authors: Chumee Jitlada , Pinkham Sarisa
Published: January 2016

Spherical rice husk zeolite NaY granules (RH-NaYg) were prepared by cross-linking of alginate biopolymer and using bentonite as the binder to obtain a uniform shape. The composition of granulation mixture was rice husk zeolite NaY, bentonite clay and alginate in the ratio of 50:30:20, respectively. The RH-NaYg were calcined at 600 °C to remove alginate and enhance the hardness of granules. Moreover, the RH-NaYg were determined surface area by N2 adsorption-desorption before utilization as the adsorbent for adsorption of Cu2+ at pH 5 for 90 min. The residual concentration of Cu2+ was reacted with NH4OH to form the blue complex and measured at the wavelength of 606 nm by UV-vis Spectrophotometer. The average adsorption capacity of RH-NaYg in 5000 ppm Cu2+ solution at pH 5 for 90 min was 242.27±0.12 mg/g. Spherical rice husk zeolite NaY granules (RH-NaYg) were prepared by cross-linking of alginate biopolymer and using bentonite as a binder to obtain a uniform shape. The composition of granulation mixture was rice husk zeolite NaY, bentonite clay and alginate in the ratio of 50:30:20, respectively. The RH-NaYg were calcined at 600 °C to remove alginate and enhance the hardness of granules. Moreover, the RH-NaYg were determined surface area by N2 adsorption-desorption before utilization as the adsorbent for adsorption of Cu2+ at pH 5 for 90 min. The residual concentration of Cu2+ was reacted with NH4OH solution to form the blue complex and measured at the wavelength of 606 nm by UV-vis Spectrophotometer. The average adsorption capacity of RH-NaYg in 5000 ppm Cu2+ solution at pH 5 for 90 min was 242.27±0.12 mg/g.
Reducing Property of Bread Crust Extract
Authors: Thaipratum Rutanachai
Published: January 2016

Today, Use of the natural reducer in the green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles has gained more attention due to the development of eco-friendly technologies in materials science that emphasised in environment-friendly chemicals, solvents and renewable materials. In the present work, bread crust, Browning product of thermally processed bread, extracts have been determined for reducing property by using DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging assay. The results showed that bread crust extracts have promising reducing property for the green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles.
TEM Analysis of Planar Defects in InGaAsN and GaAs Grown on Ge (001) by MOVPE
Authors: Wanarattikan Pornsiri , Sanorpim Sakuntam , Denchitcharoen Somyod , Yordsri Visittapong , Thanachayanont Chanchana , Uesugi Kenjiro , Kuboya Shigeyuki , Onabe Kentaro
Published: January 2016

InGaAsN on Ge (001) is proposed to be a part of the InGaP(N)/InGaAs/InGaAsN/Ge four-junction solar cell to increase a conversion efficiency over 40%. In this work, InGaAsN lattice-matched film and GaAs buffer layer grown on Ge (001) substrate by metal organic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE) were examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Electron diffraction pattern of InGaAsN taken along the [110]-zone axis illustrates single diffracted spots, which represent a layer with a uniformity of alloy composition. Cross-sectional bright field TEM image showed line contrasts generated at the GaAs/Ge interface and propagated to the InGaAsN layer. Dark field TEM images of the same area showed the presence of boundary-like planar defects lying parallel to the growth direction in the InGaAsN film and GaAs buffer layer but not in the Ge substrate. TEM images with the (002) and (00-2) reflections and the four visible {111} planes reflections illustrated planar defects which are expected to attribute to antiphase boundaries (APBs). Moreover, the results observed from atomic force microscopy (AFM) and field emission electron microscopy (FE-SEM) demonstrated the surface morphology of InGaAsN film with submicron-sized domains, which is a characteristic of the APBs.
The Study of the Removal of Cu(II) from Aqueous Solution by Papia undulates Shell
Authors: Chamchoi Noppadon , Sangwaranatee Narong , Kaewkhao Jakrapong , Teanchai K. , Siriprom Wichian
Published: January 2016

In present study, the removal of Cu (II) ions from aqueous solution was investigated by both biosorption and investigated by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The variable of the batch experiment include solution pH, content time, were conducted to determine the factors affecting capacities sorption of Cu (II). The experimental result explored that that the maximum pH for efficient sorption of Cu (II) was 9. The optimum condition of sorption were found to be contact time of 180 min, and initial Cu concentration 200 mg/L, while the result of XRD reveal that the Paphia undulate shell have aragonite phase and change to mixture phase after sorption which corresponding, with the result of EDXRF which increasing the concentration of Cu
Thermal Expansion of Aluminate Cement-Based Composite Containing Basalt Fibres with Different Length
Authors: Koňáková Dana , Vejmelková Eva
Published: January 2016

This article is focused on thermal expansion of cement-based composite. Studied materials are concrete containing alumina cement, silica aggregates and they are reinforced by basalt fibres. Three different concrete varying in fibres length were prepared and its basic physical properties and thermal expansion were measured. Fibres lengths were 6mm and 12mm. Total amount of fibres in mixtures were constant, whereas the ratio of the fibers were changed. Results were compared with reference concrete with no fibres. It was proved positive effect of fibres on thermal expansion, when the lowest values of thermal strain were shown by material with just longer fibres.
Neutron Activation for Analyzing Elements in Material
Authors: Ittipongse Ammara , Fungklin Ratchai
Published: January 2016

Neutron activation analysis (NAA) is a method of nuclear technique to detect with great sensitivity the presence and concentrations of elements in materials, without, in most cases, destroying the sample analyzed. Therefore, this study aimed to study the technique of Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA). Accordingly, instrument (INAA) has been in this analyzed for determination of heavy toxic metal (Cd, Co, Fe, Pb, Cr, Zn) and others in vegetables samples. The results of heavy metal concentration analyses showed that Co, Fe, Cr could be analyzed by NAA.
Study of Stress Distribution in Homogeneous Plastic by Photoelastic Analysis System
Authors: Manjit Yongyut , Sukprasong Saksit , Limpichaipanit Apichart , Ngamjarurojana Athipong
Published: January 2016

The experiment was conducted to study the stress distribution on a homogeneous plastic using photoelastic analysis system where the stress was observed by reflection polariscope. The circular disk of homogeneous plastic was used for study in this research. The sample was pressed at the top and bottom. The fringe patterns were produced from sample on the model being stressed, which could be observed in the bright field and dark field. The fringe patterns were recorded by digital camera. Then the results were analyzed; the fringe pattern looked different when applying various magnitudes of force because the stress distribution in sample was changed in homogeneous plastic.
The Measurement of Erythrocyte Size by Using Diffraction Technique Base on Laser
Authors: Suchat Suebtarkul , Boonrod Chantira
Published: January 2016

The measurement of erythrocyte size was studied by using diffraction technique base on laser. The light from a diode laser was observed with 650 nm and 532 nm of light wavelength through erythrocyte on the slide. The result found that the ring was appeared on the screen alternate with brightness and dark. The first brightness radius was measured on the screen (Y) and the distance of the position of the slide erythrocytes to screen (X) was observed then calculated the diameter of an erythrocyte (d) in microns (μm). The above number were calculated the volume of erythrocyte and compared with automatically complete blood count (CBC) machine by the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) with femtolitre (fl) values​ in the range 60-100 femtolitre. In conclusion, this study showed that the sizes of erythrocyte by laser diffraction technique are similar with the automated blood count. Therefore, it can be applied to measure erythrocyte size.
Interaction of 662 keV Gamma Rays with LYSO(Ce) and BGO Single Crystal Scintillators
Authors: Phunpueok Akapong , Thongpool Voranuch , Chaiphaksa Wuttichai
Published: January 2016

The study of photon interactions with matter is very important in many fields such as scientific, industry, medical imaging, biological applications, dosimetry, and radiation shielding for their potential use in radiation physics. Scintillating materials become a main part in detection and spectroscopy of high energy photons. The goal of this work is to study an interaction of 662 keV γ-rays with scintillating materials, namely the LYSO(Ce) and BGO crystals. The light output, energy resolution, intrinsic resolution, and photo-fraction of both crystals with the same size of 5x5x3 mm3 were measured using photomultiplier tube (PMT) readout. The result showed that the light yield of the LYSO(Ce) crystal is much more better than that of the BGO crystal, while its photo-fraction is worse than that of the BGO crystal.