bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling Pedestrian Level of Service at Signalized Intersection Crosswalks under Mixed Traffic Conditions
Authors: Ye Xiaofei , Chen Jun , Jiang Guiyan , Yan Xingchen
Published: December 2015

The objectives of this study were to identify the factors affecting the pedestrian level of service (LOS) at signalized intersection crosswalks under mixed traffic conditions and to develop a suitable method for estimating pedestrian LOS. The important factors influencing pedestrian LOS at crosswalks were summarized: turning traffic, through traffic, number of pedestrians, and pedestrian delay. In the Highway Capacity Manual method, pedestrian delay can be calculated by Webster's delay model, which assumes that pedestrians arrive at a uniform rate and comply with the signal at an intersection. However, that assumption is not suitable for the Chinese scenario. A pedestrian delay model was developed by considering nonuniform arrival rates and noncompliant behavior under mixed traffic conditions. The data collected by video and a questionnaire survey include information on 1,257 participants' real-time sense of comfort and safety when crossing five selected intersections and on the operational characteristics of the intersections. With perceived LOS as a dependent variable, Pearson correlation analysis and linear regression techniques were explored to determine the significant factors affecting LOS. To overcome the limitations of linear regression techniques, cumulative logistic regression was done to develop a model that fits mixed traffic conditions in China—a model that can predict the probability of responses within each LOS on the basis of a combination of explanatory variables. The results showed that the cumulative logistic model fit the survey data better than the linear regression model and produces LOS A for the crosswalks.
GSA-Tuning IPD Control of a Field-Sensed Magnetic Suspension System
Authors: Li Jen-Hsing , Chiou Juing-Shian
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this paper is to propose a GSA-tuning IPD control technique for magnetic suspension systems. An educational demonstration on a magnetic-field sensed magnetic suspension system is examined for effectiveness. For the magnetic-field sensed magnetic suspension system (FSMSS), the current transducer is employed for measuring the electromagnetic coil current, and a Hall effect device is used for detecting the position of the suspended object. To achieve optimal performance, the gravitational search algorithm (GSA) is adopted for tuning the integral-proportional-derivative (IPD) controller. The IPD control includes the specified PD controller and an integrator. The specified PD control is employed for stabilizing the inherently unstable FSMSS, whereas the integral control is utilized for eliminating the steady-state error. The GSA can tune the IPD control parameters to enable optimal FSMSS performance. We achieved excellent results from the simulations and hands-on experiments for the proposed control strategies and structures.
Para-Aortic and Pelvic Extended-Field Radiotherapy for Advanced-Stage Uterine Cancer: Dosimetric and Toxicity Comparison between the Four-Field Box and Intensity-Modulated Techniques
Authors: Rabinovich A. , Bernard L. , Ramanakumar A.V. , Stroian G. , Gotlieb W.H. , Lau S. , Bahoric B.
Published: December 2015

Background: In patients with advanced-stage endometrial carcinoma (eca), extended-field radiotherapy (efrt) is traditionally delivered by the 3-dimensional conformal (3d-crt) 4-field box technique. In recent years, the use of intensity-modulated radiotherapy (imrt) in gynecologic cancers has increased. We compared the delivery of efrt by the 3d-crt and contemporary imrt techniques. Methods: After surgical staging and adjuvant chemotherapy in 38 eca patients, efrt was delivered by either imrt or 3d-crt. Doses to the organs at risk, side effects, and outcomes were compared between the techniques. Results: Of the 38 eca patients, 33 were stage iiic, and 5 were stage ivb. In the imrt group, maximal doses to rectum, small intestine, and bladder were significantly higher, and mean dose to bladder was lower (p < 0.0001). Most acute gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and hematologic side effects were grade i or ii and were comparable between the groups. In long-term follow-up, only grade 1 cystitis at 3 months was statistically higher in the imrt patients. No grade iii or iv gastrointestinal or genitourinary toxicities were observed. No statistically significant differences in overall and disease-free survival or recurrence rates were observed between the techniques. Conclusions: In advanced eca patients, imrt is a safe and effective technique for delivering efrt to the pelvis and para-aortic region, and it is comparable to the 3d-crt 4-field box technique in both side effects and efficacy. For centres in which imrt is not readily available, 3d-crt is a valid alternative.
Enantioselective additions of copper acetylides to cyclic iminium and oxocarbenium ions
Authors: Liu Jixin , Dasgupta Srimoyee , Watson Mary P
Published: December 2015

The development of enantioselective, copper-catalyzed alkynylations of cyclic iminium and oxocarbenium ions is reviewed. The use of chiral copper-based catalysts has enabled high yields and enantioselectivites in the formation of nitrogen- and oxygen-containing heterocycles with α-stereogenic centers. This review highlights both the accomplishments and the future work needed in this important area.
LAMOST 1: A DISRUPTED SATELLITE IN THE CONSTELLATION DRACO
Authors: Vickers John J. , Smith Martin C. , Hou Yonghui , Wang Yuefei , Zhang Yong
Published: December 2015

Using Large Sky Area Multi-object Fibre Spectroscopic Telescope spectroscopic data, we find a strong signal of a comoving group of stars in the constellation of Draco. The group, observed near the apocenter of its orbit, is 2.6 kpc from the Sun with a metallicity of −0.64 dex. The system is observed as a streaming population of unknown provenance with mass of about

and brightness of about

−3.6. Its high metallicity, diffuse physical structure, and eccentric orbit may indicate that the progenitor satellite was a globular cluster rather than a dwarf galaxy or an open cluster.
Moral Dilemmas in Pediatric Orthopedics
Authors: Mercuri John J. , Vigdorchik Jonathan M. , Otsuka Norman Y.
Published: December 2015

All orthopedic surgeons face moral dilemmas on a regular basis; however, little has been written about the moral dilemmas that are encountered when providing orthopedic care to pediatric patients and their families. This article aims to provide surgeons with a better understanding of how bioethics and professionalism apply to the care of their pediatric patients. First, several foundational concepts of both bioethics and professionalism are summarized, and definitions are offered for 16 important terms within the disciplines. Next, some of the unique aspects of pediatric orthopedics as a subspecialty are reviewed before engaging in a discussion of 5 common moral dilemmas within the field. Those dilemmas include the following: (1) obtaining informed consent and assent for either surgery or research from pediatric patients and their families; (2) performing cosmetic surgery on pediatric patients; (3) caring for pediatric patients with cognitive or physical impairments; (4) caring for injured pediatric athletes; and (5) meeting the demand for pediatric orthopedic care in the United States. Pertinent considerations are reviewed for each of these 5 moral dilemmas, thereby better preparing surgeons for principled moral decision making in their own practices. Each of these dilemmas is inherently complex with few straightforward answers; however, orthopedic surgeons have an obligation to take the lead and better define these kinds of difficult issues within their field. The lives of pediatric patients and their families will be immeasurably improved as a result. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(12):e1133–e1138.]
Heritage protection through a geomorphologist’s eyes: From recording to awareness raising
Authors: Smrekar Aleš , Zorn Matija , Komac Blaž
Published: December 2015

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Les détournements de jeux vidéo par les joueurs.
Authors: Barnabé Fanny
Published: December 2015

Cet article a pour objectif d’analyser conjointement quatre pratiques de détournement du jeu vidéo par les joueurs (la rédaction de fanfictions, la réalisation de machinimas, le modding, et le speedrun) en les envisageant comme des prolongements de l’expérience ludique. La forme des œuvres dérivées ainsi que les discours des joueurs qui les produisent seront étudiés parallèlement dans le but de mettre au jour en quoi ces pratiques renouvellent la conception même du jeu et lui ouvrent de nouveaux espaces. Ce travail se veut donc dans la lignée des play studies définies par Triclot (2011), qui envisagent le jeu vidéo non comme une forme figée mais comme une expérience.
Using Programmer Products iSpring in Educational Technologies
Authors: Ankudinova Tatyana
Published: December 2015

The Russian Federal State Educational Standards requires teachers of the Russian school to develop the new educational technologies based on the use of modern world pedagogical innovations. The software iSpring is a reliable tool for their implementation. In accordance with the requirements of the Russian Federal State Educational Standards to the modern lesson, the teacher should promote to improve the efficiency of information perception by students in the classroom. In this chapter explain our teaching activities about use software iSpring Suite 7 and iSpring QuizMaker 7 as an effective means to achieve this goal.
E-Learning Environment
Authors: Noskova Tatiana , Pavlova Tatiana
Published: December 2015

This chapter discusses the problems of electronic educational resources quality in terms of modern professional competencies shaping in E-Learning Environment. The importance of these problems due to the fact that modern society requires specialists who are not only professionally trained, but also use the “long life learning” strategy in professional self-development. Therefore, electronic resources should provide not only learning conditions for required knowledge and skills, but also have potential for customized information learning strategies generation, for planning personal achievements, self-development and self-realization. There are different evaluation procedures for digital educational resources quality inclusive two main aspects: technical specifications and instructional design. It is proposed to take into account in the evaluation system additional aspect (scorecard), which characterizes the personalization of student's educational activities, organized on the basis of electronic resources interaction. This set includes indicators of electronic educational resources quality, reflecting their ability to promote personal significant results, measured from the perspective of motivation, implementation of personal cognitive (education) requirements, disclosure of creativity and self-actualization. Conventionally, this group can be called “personalization indicators”. Adaptation of such indicators group improves the quality of electronic educational resources by increasing the multiplicity and flexibility of their use in different educational contexts, taking into account the results of student's productive information activity and the diverse of their educational and informational needs and preferences.
Creating an Educational Social Network Based on the Private Cloud Simulation and User Interaction in Solving Educational Problems
Authors: Kovalev Eugene
Published: December 2015

In the chapter the author analyzes trends in ICT education, considered the possibilities of integration social computing technologies and cloud technologies. The author proposes to create a single platform solution that combines social networking, crowdsourcing management system and knowledge management system and learning management. The optimal approach in this case may be private educational cloud deployments. In a study conducted information modeling the main processes of interaction between participants in the educational cloud. The author also has been proposed criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of the resulting solutions, technological and organizational requirements.
The Globalization of Education and Control Techniques of the E-Learning Systems in Russian Smart Universities for Increase of Quality and Competitiveness
Authors: Bochcov Valeriy , Isayev Sergey , Vedeniapin Yevgeny
Published: December 2015

The main purpose of chapter discuss the development of the education system in the context of economic globalization and the emergence of cross-border education and development of e-learning and distance education technologies. The chapter also discussed the phenomenon of the emergence of projects MOOCs as a tool for selecting human capital in the interests of the global players on the global market, identify and systematize the circumstances giving rise to the emergence and development of these projects, manufacturers of courses and the major players, & the issues of efficiency and effectiveness of teaching on platforms MOOCs. Also was formulated the possible consequences for the nation-state in further intensification of global competition in the education market, the made conclusions on strengthening the integration of education with international policies of governments and big business in the WTO. These factors impose special conditions on the production of educational policies aimed at increasing competitiveness, especially in the field of vocational and higher education.
Faculty Response to the Opportunities of the Digital Age
Authors: Starr-Glass David
Published: December 2015

The digital revolution has had a profound impact on learning opportunities, but there is often ambivalence in the ways in which faculty and colleges embrace these opportunities. Attitudes and the cultural expectations of faculty lie at the heart of any successful strategic response to the digital revolution. This chapter examines cultural values that may limit responsiveness and suggests that a new cultural paradigm is needed among faculty members. This paradigm accentuates the notion of service and a relational commitment to learners. In education, a relational service culture recognizes the value and centrality of the learner and provides a pathway for the broader strategic alignment of the academy with the opportunities that are presented by the digital age. The chapter critically appraises the need for a relational service culture among faculty that might further and expand learner-centered pedagogies, and suggests how change might be initiated and supported.
Distributed Cognition
Authors: Carr Sherah Betts , Johnson Nneka , Bush Lucy
Published: December 2015

This work uses the framework of distributed cognition for understanding the way that educators perceive cognition in classroom application. The focus is on the elements of technological tools and peers as extensions of students' cognitive capacity. A qualitative study was conducted with teachers at a combined middle and secondary school in an urban area. Data from interviews in this exploratory case study revealed that teachers had minimal awareness of distributed cognition especially in terms of developing and assessing student learning outcomes. Teachers particularly struggled with ways to label, quantify and apply this construct. One unexpected finding was the concern about a lack of student expertise in utilizing tools. Suggestions call for systemic changes in curriculum, instruction and assessment. A focus on instructional technology as a mediator for critical thinking and problem solving is advocated. Additional reform measures include a renewed look at educators' epistemology through transformative professional learning.
Becoming a Successful Entrepreneur through Emotional Intelligence Development
Authors: Torres-Coronas Teresa , Vidal-Blasco María-Arántzazu
Published: December 2015

Networking is a must-do activity for entrepreneurs as professional contacts link entrepreneurs with critical opportunities, support and resources. In consequence, it is essential to investigate entrepreneurial behavior in terms of networking practices and predictors. Emotional Intelligence (EI) is an important factor in the prediction of entrepreneurial outcomes and behavior. Given the social nature of entrepreneurial activities, EI can predict entrepreneurial success. In this context, this chapter adds to the literature by evaluating how emotional intelligence supports proactive networking behavior amongst successful entrepreneurs. A quantitative and qualitative research study was conducted to collect detailed information about trait EI and networking behavior and activities of local entrepreneurs. Managerial implications of our research findings relate to the fact that emotional intelligence has positive effect on proactive networking behavior. This might indicate that entrepreneurs with higher scores in these components will proactively manage their professional networks. Therefore, this research offers several practical implications for understanding successful entrepreneurship and for entrepreneurship education.
MOOCs
Authors: Luebcke Maren , Javet Fabienne , Scepanović Snezana
Published: December 2015

During the last decades universities and other higher educational institutions have been widely affected by the fundamental upheaval seen in organization of modern life. The phenomenon of xMOOCs can be seen as a catalyzer for changes in higher education institutions and its educational system. They are highly debated because they crystalize different trends and movements into one format. It can be interpreted at some point as a successful phenomenon in terms of popularity, but their educational success is strongly questioned. The debate they generate have a catalyzing effect on the development of higher education institutions. This phenomenon is analyzed at three different dimensions that belong to the core of formal education and specially higher education. The first dimension is the impact on the instructional design. With their broad reputation xMOOCs provide a blueprint for the instructional design of online classes, by chunking information, focusing on video lectures and accompanying them by the use of social media technologies to enable peer feedback and peer learning. The second dimension of implementing xMOOCs in higher education point at the faculty development demands in terms of competences required, a special technological setting and the discussion of individualized curriculum and learning paths. The third dimension analyses the implication in the higher educational system. Currently mainly internationally renowned academic institutions have the capacity and resources to offer xMOOCs, and the ones who provide a platform to host them are generating alternative institutional business models. They symbolize the trend towards a global market of learning and support the development towards the model of entrepreneurial universities.
Virtual Learning Communities in Organizations and Institutions of Higher Learning
Authors: Sharpe Ramona T. , Bush David , Cozzens Lawrence , Bosler Megan
Published: December 2015

Organizational learning theory, adult learning theory, and basic human performance work in community psychology and anthropology inform this chapter which examines Virtual Learning Communities (VLC) in different types of organizations. Specifically, examples of VLC use in a corporate setting and an institute of higher learning are examined. The chapter reviews key components necessary for success when using VLC, as well as VLC effectiveness versus their limitations. Learnings obtained from experience with and research on VLCs are also discussed. The chapter ends by exploring the major implications for practitioners in adult learning, human resource development, and related disciplines.
Health in MENA
Authors: Alami Randa
Published: December 2015

This chapter argues that health is an essential pillar of growth, and that ensuring Universal Health Coverage is a key pre-requisite for equitable and inclusive development. MENA health systems are far from meeting this challenge, because of clear developmental failures and lack of political will, not to mention wars. At present, MENA health systems are fragmented, inefficient, and deficient, delivering often mediocre, urban centered, tertiary care. They exclude large swathes of the population, particularly the poor, resulting in persistent disparities and inequities. Because of privatization, the neglect of public health, and defective social protection, MENA citizens shoulder some of the highest financial burdens amongst developing regions, which worsen and deepen poverty. To meet its health challenges and achieve inclusive development, governments need to revamp their public health sectors, and play a more central role in protecting the poor and vulnerable. MENA must invest in health, equity and development.
Education Inequalities and Human Capital Formation in MENA Region
Authors: Akay Ebru Caglayan
Published: December 2015

This chapter examines education system and education development in MENA region and compare to other selected region in the frame of human capital. It also focus on issue of education quality and inequality. In here, human capital is identified and measured by using education-based factors such as drop-out rates, repetition rates, literacy rates and international test scores, enrollment rates. The results of analysis show that the student participation is common with high enrollment rates and most governments in the region have announced large expenditures on education. Despite impressive gains in the participation of student in the different academic level and intensive public expenditures on education in the region, MENA region suffer from many problems regarding education such as, poor efficiency, low quality, illiteracy and gender inequality, low labor force participation of female. As a results, MENA governments should improve education systems to focus on not only on increasing enrollments, but also on improving the quality of education.
Financial Market Regulations in a Globalized World
Authors: Cebeci Kemal , Zülfüoğlu Özkan
Published: December 2015

During the 2008 and 2011 crisis, the main crisis of globalization brought the financial markets to the attention of most critics for globalization. The high mobility of capital, non-regulated operations in the markets, the failures of big investment firms (e.g Lehman Brothers) etc. sparked opposition to financial markets and started discussions about regulation of these markets for achieving a healthier free market economy. In this chapter, we analyze the globalization process, particularly in the financial markets, as part of globalization overall. We try to determine the current structure and quality of financial markets in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). We aim to discover what the main problems are and which reforms should be implemented to achieve a strong financial system in the MENA region. In addition, we analyze recent developments and regulations in the financial markets of the MENA countries. In last section, we propose some suggestions for improving and reaching a global quality level in the financial system of the MENA countries.
Policies of Science, Technology, and Industry in the MENA Countries and Their Impact on National Competitiveness
Authors: Jihène Malek
Published: December 2015

This chapter offers an overview about the role of science, technology and industrial policies in the MENA region. It analyses the theoretical foundations of these policies and their changes. In addition, an analysis about the determinants of the state of science, technology and innovation in the MENA countries become interesting and important to be explored. Thus, this chapter is an occasion to explore the role of the national system of innovation in these countries in facilitating the knowledge, skills and innovation process, and to offer some ideas regarding the weaknesses, limitations and constraints of these countries in these areas. The two main ideas of this chapter are: the development of innovation infrastructure and the role of institutions in pursuing these policies. Thus, undertaking a comparative analysis of the MENA countries in the areas of science, technology and innovation is the goal of this chapter.
Review of Entrepreneurship Education in Europe, Middle East, North American Countries Compared to India
Authors: Chauhan Raghubir Singh , Das Rituparna
Published: December 2015

Measuring entrepreneurship education across national contexts is a relatively recent academic area. Scholarly study is vital for more multilevel entrepreneurship. Hitherto disciplines of psychology and economics have been dominating - so, to brace the framework at micro and macro level a balanced scholarship, based upon multiple frame ecology is needed. Hence an alternative viewpoint to research entrepreneurship education across national contexts is explored. Selected nations from global education and training scenario are analyzed in one framework. Construal limitations are identified by concentrating on one sample country. Limitations are explored using another framework. A balancing Funnel Model of Entrepreneurship Education Ecology is introduced to accommodate contrary findings of both frames. The model is put forward for further study. The chapter concludes by proposing further research avenues for mutual learning ecology by discussing the findings for comparison with India.
Using Media to Resolve Media Engendered Ethnic Conflicts in Multiracial Societies
Authors: Lando Agnes Lucy
Published: December 2015

Due to varied reasons, all nations host people of diverse cultural backgrounds. Kenya, a nation of 40 million people with over 40 tribes, is not exempt. Further, Kenya, like any other nation, suffers ethnic conflicts. The most pronounced ethnic conflicts have been the 2007-2008 Post Election Violence and the 1990s land clashes. These clashes were visible to the local and international community because people were killed, displaced and properties destroyed. However, there is a covert ethnic conflict in Kenya. This is the subtle plight of the Somalis of Kenya origin who find themselves in constant conflict with the “other” Kenyans. Based on 2014 research findings, this chapter exposes the ethnic conflicts Somalis of Kenyan origin endure. From the findings, it is apparent that the ethnic plights of Somalis of Kenyan origin are media engendered and can, to a great extent, be resolved by media.
Grooming Market in India
Authors: Verma Harsh V. , Duggal Ekta
Published: December 2015

‘Grooming' is a multi-billion dollar industry. Numerous brands participate in grooming market. Grooming is transformative. These products derive their significance from their psycho-socio-cultural roles. Grooming was found to be a three dimensional phenomena both for men and women. In case of men these dimensions were physical, psychological, and behavioral. And for women group, the other two dimensions remained same but behavioral dimension was replaced by beauty. It is these dimensions which give rise to consumption constellation and demarcate what product categories are relevant in the perusal of goal of grooming. Well groomed people are rare and uncommon. It is this rarity which renders a groomed state as aspirational and desirable. Being well groomed is advantageous for two reasons: it eases negotiation of social turf and psychologically it transforms identity into confident and energetic self. It is through these psycho-social processes, being well groomed gives an advantage over others in securing success.
Efficiency and Stability Enhancement of Quasi-Solid-State Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells Based on PEO Composite Polymer Blend Electrolytes
Authors: Somsongkul Voranuch , Jamikorn Surassawatee , Wongchaisuwat Atchana , Thang San H. , Arunchaiya Marisa
Published: December 2015

The composite polymer electrolyte consisting of poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO), KI, I2 and TiO2 was blended with low molecular weight poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) and (PEG-MA)-Ru. The SEM images of these blended PEO electrolytes showed better dispersion of materials and the electrochemical impedance spectroscopic study showed an increase in conductivity compared to that of composite PEO electrolyte. These results were consistent with enhanced efficiency of DSSCs using these blended PEO electrolytes. The energy conversion efficiencies of DSSCs using composite PEO-PEG, PEO-(PEG-MA)-Ru and PEO-PEG-(PEG-MA)-Ru polymer blend electrolytes were 5.47, 5.05 and 5.28, respectively compared to 4.99 of DSSC using composite PEO electrolyte. The long-term storage of unsealed DSSCs at room temperature for 93 days demonstrated that the cell efficiency gradually decreased to 0.49-1.88%. DSSCs assembled with composite polymer blend electrolyte showed a slower decrease than that of DSSC using composite PEO electrolyte. It was found that the composite PEO-PEG-(PEG-MA)-Ru polymer blend electrolyte of 1.0:0.1:0.1 weight ratio gave the best improvement in stability of DSSCs.
Photocatalytic Inactivation of Escherichia Coli Using Zinc Stannate Nanostructures under Visible Light
Authors: Khan Muhammad Najam , Jaisai Mayuree , Dutta Joydeep
Published: December 2015

Zinc stannate (ZnSnO3) nanostructured were synthesized in aqueous media at room temperature. The room temperature synthesis was designed using pourbaix diagrams. The synthesized nanoparticles were checked for their photocatalytic activity for inactivation of model microbe such asEscherichia coli (E.Coli). Photocatalytic activity was observed for zinc stannate (ZTO) in colloidal solution and ZTO deposited on glass slides. Various different concentrations of ZTO nanoparticles were used in slurry form, the bactericidal activity was observed under halogen light, room light and dark conditions. Type of light source and concentration of catalyst were observed to be the two utmost parameters for assessing the efficiency.
Quality Control of Orange Juice Using Electronic Nose
Authors: Maolanon Rungroj , Wongwiriyapan Winadda , Pratontep Sirapat
Published: December 2015

Applications of electronic noses to classify the freshness of food and beverages by mimicking the olfactory perception are becoming widely recognized in food industries. For pasteurized orange juice, packaging and shelf-life are key factors for the quality control, which are generally inspected by the sensory stability and quality (odor, color, texture and taste) of the orange juice. An electronic nose based on five different commercial metal oxide gas sensors, a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor has been designed and constructed to examine the quality of orange juice as subjected to the fermentation process. The duration for a single measurement from an orange juice sample was approximately two minutes. The data acquisition of the voltage responses of the gas sensors were achieved via a microcontroller unit. The data classification was statistically analyzed by the “Principal Component Analysis (PCA)”. The Euclidean distance between two PCA groups was used as an indicator of ethanol concentration. The orange juice was laced with various concentrations of ethanol from 0.1 to 1.0% ethanol to simulate fermented orange juice at different stages. The objective was to characterize the freshness of orange juice by means of the ethanol level from the fermentation process. The results show a distinctive classification of the orange juice for an alcohol concentration lower than 0.1%. Thus the electronic nose offers a rapid, highly sensitive alternative for the quality control process.
Structural and Mechanical Properties of Ti-W-N Thin Films by Dual Unbalanced Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Homhuan Pattira , Pongsopa Jiraporn , Honglertkongsakul Kanchaya
Published: December 2015

Ti-W-N thin films grown on Si (100) and AISI D2 steel substrates had been deposited by a d.c. magnetron sputtering with pure Ti and W targets in a mixture of Ar and N2 plasma. The nitrogen partial pressure was varied from 0% to 9% of total gas. All Ti-W-N films were formed in solid solution with determination by x-ray diffractrogram analysis. A strong preferred orientation TiN(111) was detected. Their mechanical properties were studied using nanoindentation with Berkovich tip. An increase in hardness was observed with increasing nitrogen partial pressure. The optimum protective coating for plastic deformation was Ti-W-N film grown at 9% nitrogen partial pressure. Chemical bonding of Ti-W-N films was investigated by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Binding energy analysis showed that N was mainly in TiN and W2N. The corrosion behavior was studied in variation of nitrogen partial pressure. Ti-W-N films deposited on steel at low nitrogen partial pressure showed excellent corrosion resistance in NaCl solution.
Effects of Continuous and Discontinuous Deposition Time in Reactive Direct Current Magnetron Sputtering of Titanium Dioxide Thin Films
Authors: Aiempanakit Montri , Salawan Chantana , Aiempanakit Kamon
Published: December 2015

The effect of continuous and discontinuous deposition time on the properties of TiO2 thin films deposited by reactive direct current magnetron sputtering (DCMS) on glass substrates was investigated. The deposition processes were designed for a condition of continuous deposition time D1 (60 min) and three conditions of discontinuous deposition time D2 (30 min × 2 times), D3 (15 min × 4 times), and D4 (1 min × 60 times). The crystal structure, surface morphology, and hydrophilicity of TiO2 thin films were characterized by X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscope, and water contact angle method, respectively. It was found that the increasing of discontinuous deposition time (conditions from D1 to D4) shows the changing of grain size from big grain size with spherical shape to small grain size with oval shape. The crystallinity of TiO2 films decrease with increasing the discontinuous deposition time. The water contact angles also decrease as a function of increasing discontinuous deposition time. These results may be explained from the accumulation of heat on the substrate which affected the phase composition and surface morphology of TiO2 thin films.
Structural Optimization of Vanadium Oxides Prepared via a Polymer Assisted Deposition
Authors: Srirodpai Onruthai , Woothikanokkhan Jatuphorn , Nawalertpanya Saiwan
Published: December 2015

Vanadium dioxide film, to be used as a thermochromic material for smart glazing, were prepared and fabricated on glass substrate via a polymer assisted deposition (PAD). Poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) and poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVOH) were used as the film former to control the viscosity of precursor solution and interact with vanadium ions. The structural characteristic of vanadium oxides films was optimized in this work using Taguchi's experimental design. The optimization was performed by considering the effect of annealing temperature, annealing time and heating rates on film thickness and XRD patterns of the prepared film. The results from XRD patterns indicated that the optimum conditions corresponding to the formation of vanadium dioxide (VO2), regardless of the polymer type, is that by using the annealing time and temperature of 6 h and 450 °C, respectively.
Synthesis of ZnO Nanorod Arrays Structure on Si Substrate
Authors: Noothongkaew Suttinart , Pukird Supakorn , Sukkabot Worasak , An Ki Seok
Published: December 2015

ZnO nanorod arrays were synthesized with simple chemical vapor deposition technique with template without using catalyst by controlling the growth time and condensation growth. The surface morphology of nanostructure were characterized by using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), we found that the ZnO nanorod arrays were uniformly covered on substrate. The extremely strong ZnO (0002) peaks were observed by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), shown the preferred (0001) orientation and high crystalline quality of the ZnO nanostructures. The optical properties were investigated by using photoluminescence (PL). These results showed the contribution of green-yellow emission attributed to the strong inner reflection and scattering. Our results indicating that the uniform ZnO nanorods arrays can be synthesized by using a simplified method. Furthermore, they will be implemented as application for nanodevice fabrication or for gas sensors and solar cells.
Dynamics and Quantum Leakage of InAs/GaAs Double Quantum Dots under Finite Time-Dependent Square-Pulsed Electric Field
Authors: Kesorn Aniwat , Sukkabot Worasak , Suwanna Sujin
Published: December 2015

We investigate the dynamics and quantum leakage of InAs double quantum dots under the influence of a finite number of square-pulsed electric field whose amplitude varies from −0.3 to 0.3 [mV/A°]. The quantum dots are created to have identical pyramid shape with a square base of length 60.6 [A°] and height 30.3 [A°], and separated by 12.1 [A°]. Such the double quantum dots are proposed as a qubit within the given number of sequent pulses and amplitudes. The investigation consists of two parts: (i) simulations with a tight-binding theory [1] to calculate wavefunctions at constant electric field, and (ii) modeling of a two-level quantum system to calculate the state dynamics on the Bloch sphere [2] using parameters obtained from part (i). Results from part (i) give us wavefunctions under one pulse of constant electric field. After solving equations to match the wavefunctions at each pulse’s boundary, we compute the charge density as a function of times to display the quantum transition from one dot to another. This transition, its probability, and the dynamics on the Bloch sphere can be depicted with the electric field as time increases. For comparison purposes, we find that the dynamics in part (i) does not always lie in the eigenbasis, resulting in the transition probability smaller than that calculated in part (ii). Generally, the probability profiles from both parts are consistent in shape and critical points. For quantum leakage, we obtain a contour plot of the leakage as a function of the number of pulses and amplitudes, which shows that the leakage increases nonlinearly as the number of pulses and amplitude increase. Some pulses seem to induce more leakage than others, depending on the quantum state of the dots when such pulses arrive.
Effects of Deformation on Failure Mechanisms and Optical Properties of Flexible Organic Solar Cell Structures
Authors: Asare J. , Agyei-Tuffour B. , Oyewole O.K. , Anye V.C. , Momodu D.Y. , Zebaze-Kana G.M. , Soboyejo W.O.
Published: December 2015

This paper examines the effects of cyclic bending on the deformation and failure of layers that are relevant to flexible organic solar cells (with Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) substrates and Poly-3-hexylthiophene: [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (P3HT:PCBM) active layers). The deformation and cracking mechanisms are elucidated along with the stresses and crack driving forces associated with the bending of flexible organic solar cells. The changes in the optical properties (transmittance) of the individual layers and multilayers are then explored for layers/multilayers deformed to flexural strains and stresses that are computed using finite element models. The implications of the results are then discussed for the design of flexible organic solar cells.
Pitting Corrosion of a Low Carbon Steel in Corrosive Environments: Experiments and Models
Authors: Kolawole S.K. , Kolawole F.O. , Enegela O.P. , Adewoye O.O. , Soboyejo A.B.O. , Soboyejo W.O.
Published: December 2015

This paper presents the results of the combined study of experiments and modeling of the pitting corrosion behavior of low carbon steel. The effects of pH are elucidated via experiments on low carbon steel exposed to various corrosive media. The corrosion rates for the steel samples immersed in various corrosive media were determined by polarization experiments via a gamry potentiostat. The microscopic observations of the surfaces reveal clear evidence of corrosion pits that increase in size with increasing exposure duration. The observed pit size distribution and the evolution of pit size are modeled using statistical models. The implications of the results are used for the application of low carbon steels in corrosive environment.
Review of High Temperature Ceramics for Aerospace Applications
Authors: Soboyejo Winston O. , Obayemi J.D. , Annan E. , Ampaw E.K. , Daniels L. , Rahbar N.
Published: December 2015

This paper presents a review of high temperature ceramics research for aerospace applications. Following a brief historical perspective, the paper reviews the effort to toughen ceramics for high temperature structural applications. These include: efforts to toughen zirconia-based ceramics, aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, molybdenum disilicide and zirconium diborides and carbon-based composites. The development of thermal protection systems is also reviewed within the context of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) and thermal protection systems for space vehicles. The paper concludes with a final section in which the implications of the results are then discussed for the thermostructural applications of ceramics in aerospace structures.
Effects of Adhesion and Stretching on Failure Mechanisms and Optical Properties of Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Oyewole O.K. , Asare J. , Oyewole D.O. , Agyei-Tuffour B. , Anye V.C. , Zebaze Kana M.G. , Soboyejo W.O.
Published: December 2015

This paper presents the results of a study of the adhesion and optical properties of layered structures that are relevant to stretchable organic solar cells. A combination of modeling and experiments is used to investigate the effects of adhesion and stretching on failure mechanisms and optical properties. The adhesion between the possible bi-layers is determined by incorporating force microscopy measurements of pull-off forces into adhesion models. The failure mechanisms associated with the tensile stretching of the structures are then investigated using a combination ofin-situ/ex-situmicroscopy observations and analytical/computational models. The resulting changes in optical properties are elucidated before discussing their implications for the design of stretchable organic solar cells
Letter from President 2010-2012
Authors: Temporelli Pier Luigi
Published: December 2015

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Conodonts of the Hull Formation, Ottawa Group (Middle Ordovician), of the Ottawa-Hull area, Ontario and Quebec
Authors: Uyeno T T
Published: December 2015

A conodont fauna consisting of ten species and seven form - species is described from the Hull Formation of the Ottawa Group of the Ottawa-Hull area in Ontario and Quebec. The collection of over 10,000 specimens indicates that the Hull conodont fauna is typical
of the North American Midcontinent Province, and of the eastern subprovince (Barnes et al. , 1973) , and may be assigned to Fauna 8 of Sweet et al. (1971 ) . In New York and Ontario, Fauna 8 ranges from the uppermost part of the Chaumont Formation to the mid- part of the Kings Fall s Limestone
(Schopf , 1966; Sweet et al , 1971) . In terms of North American s t ages, Fauna 8 is of late Porterfieldian through mid-Kirkfieldian age, or approximately late Wlildernessian (Bergstrtlm, 197lb). The Hull Formation is redefined in litho stratigraphic terms.
Wearable device for swim assessment: a new ecologic approach for communication and analysis
Authors: Perego Paolo , Andreoni Giuseppe , Sironi Roberto , Lenzi Stefano , Santambrogio Giorgio
Published: December 2015

This paper describes a wearable system for the assessment of swim performance focusing on the description of the system and especially on the novel method for data transmission in water, and the algorithm used for extracting some parameters for the qualitative assessment of the performance. We placed a 3-axes Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) on the athlete’s back in a specific swimsuit, which also allows for recording 1-lead ECG. The system and the algorithm have been tested on 13 trials with 10 subjects comparing the results with data extracted from video recording. The system demonstrated able and reliable to measure time and kinematic parameters of swimming.
Modeling Kidney Disease with iPS Cells
Authors: Freedman Benjamin S.
Published: December 2015

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are somatic cells that have been transcriptionally reprogrammed to an embryonic stem cell (ESC)-like state. iPSCs are a renewable source of diverse somatic cell types and tissues matching the original patient, including nephron-like kidney organoids. iPSCs have been derived representing several kidney disorders, such as ADPKD, ARPKD, Alport syndrome, and lupus nephritis, with the goals of generating replacement tissue and ‘disease in a dish’ laboratory models. Cellular defects in iPSCs and derived kidney organoids provide functional, personalized biomarkers, which can be correlated with genetic and clinical information. In proof of principle, disease-specific phenotypes have been described in iPSCs and ESCs with mutations linked to polycystic kidney disease or focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. In addition, these cells can be used to model nephrotoxic chemical injury. Recent advances in directed differentiation and CRISPR genome editing enable more specific iPSC models and present new possibilities for diagnostics, disease modeling, therapeutic screens, and tissue regeneration using human cells. This review outlines growth opportunities and design strategies for this rapidly expanding and evolving field.
Diversity of Breast Carcinoma: Histological Subtypes and Clinical Relevance
Authors: Makki Jaafar
Published: December 2015

Mammary carcinoma is the most common malignant tumor in women, and it is the leading cause of mortality, with an incidence of ≥1,000,000 cases occurring worldwide annually. It is one of the most common human neoplasms, accounting for approximately one-quarter of all cancers in females worldwide and 27% of cancers in developed countries with a Western lifestyle. They exhibit a wide scope of morphological features, different immunohistochemical profiles, and unique histopathological subtypes that have specific clinical course and outcome. Breast cancers can be classified into distinct subgroups based on similarities in the gene expression profiles and molecular classification.
Ecocriticism and Italy
Authors: Iovino Serenella
Published: December 2015

Written by one of Europe’s leading critics, Ecocriticism and Italy reads the diverse landscapes of Italy in the cultural imagination. From death in Venice as a literary trope and petrochemical curse, through the volcanoes of Naples to wine, food and environmental violence in Piedmont, Serenella Iovino explores Italy as a text where ecology and imagination meet. Examining texts where justice, society and politics interlace with stories of land and life, ecosystems and body cells, pollution and redemption, the book argues that literature, art and criticism are able to transform the unexpressed voices of the land and its people into stories of resistance and offer us a practice of liberation.
Inclusión sociolaboral de las personas con discapacidad. Mediación laboral
Authors: Munuera Gómez M. Pilar
Published: December 2015

Las personas con discapacidad tienen dificultades a la hora de mantener un puesto de trabajo, por ello, necesitan de medios para defender sus derechos. Estos mecanismos pueden fortalecer su estabilidad laboral y facilitar la resolución de los conflictos que puedan plantearse sin llegar a la vía judicial. Las experiencias desarrolladas a nivel internacional y nacional en mediación laboral de-muestran la capacidad de implementar la inclusión en el ámbito laboral. La Comisión para la Igual-dad de Empleo Oportunidades en el Empleo (EEOC, en sus siglas en inglés, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission), ha llevado a cabo la utilización de la mediación en cuatro oficinas locales (Philadelphia, Nueva Orleans, Houston y Washington), demostrando la eficacia económica y social de la utilización de la mediación para resolver conflictos en materia de discapacidad en el ámbito laboral. Una rentabilidad económica que alcanzó la cuantía de 109,2 millones de dólares en 2013 sin incluir los beneficios conseguidos por las partes.