bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficiency Improvement of Single Phase Transformer Using Virgin Coconut Oil
Authors: Zaidi A.A.H. , Hussin Nuriziani , Maizana Dina
Published: September 2015

The application of mineral oil in transformer is prominently act as and insulator and a coolant liquid. More often, petroleum based oil is used because most its elements are good to act as insulator such as excellent heat transfer and low in viscosity. Anyhow, the usage of mineral oil in transformer is possibly hazardous to the environment considering that it is poor biodegradable liquid where when a spill or leakage happens, it could pollute the environment surroundings. Moreover, it is known as a non-renewable energy sources, the world will be out of it someday near future. For this reason, a new option of transformer insulation liquid is studied. Vegetable oil is a fully biodegradable insulating liquid and for this paper, coconut oil is used as the insulator. In this paper, it concentrates on the performance of the transformer before and after virgin coconut oil is applied in a single-phase step down transformer that use the 220 V supply and 50 Hz frequency. Transformer is connected to 110V induction motor as load and has been test in two conditions, dry and after virgin coconut oil is applied. Comparison is made from both results and clearly shown a good improvement when virgin coconut oil is used as insulation oil.
Comparative Study of Linear Permanent Magnet Generator with Different Shape of Permanent Magnet for Wave Energy Conversion
Authors: Memon Aamir Hussain , bin Ibrahim Taib , Perumal N.
Published: September 2015

This paper presents the design of linear permanent magnet generator for wave energy conversion using finite element analysis software. Four designs have been proposed which are simple, lightweight, portable and can produce 100 Watt electric power. Air-cored linear permanent magnet generator have been chosen and their electromagnetic characteristic were analyzed using finite element analysis. The determined electromagnetic analysis reveals that rectangular permanent magnet arrangement (Rect-PM) design gives efficient performance as compared to other designs.
Investigation on Various Voltage Controllers for 3 Phase Rectifier Using Arduino as a Low Cost Microcontroller
Authors: Zulkifli Shamsul Aizam , Ab Ghani Mohd Khairul Akli , Deraman Farih , Berahim Nawi , Abdullah Abdul Hadi , Tomari Razali
Published: September 2015

This paper focuses on investigation of various voltage controllers which are the Proportional Integration Derivative (PID) control and P-Resonant control in order to observe the efficiency of the low cost microcontroller such as Arduino for the gating signals generation. Both of the controllers have been selected due to the availabality of the block diagrams that can be build in the MATLAB. The MATLAB-Simulink block will be used as the interface between the design controller to the Arduino board before downloaded into Arduino. The results show, the Arduino is able to operate from various controllers but it gives better result when the P-Resonant controller has been used.
A Problem with IFOC and a New PWM Based 180 Degree Conduction Mode for Three Phase Inverter
Authors: Nasir Usman , Rasheed Muhammad Tahir , Bodla Muhammad Kamran , Rafiq Muhammad , Kazmi S.M.R.
Published: September 2015

Three Phase Inverters being used today are based on Field Orientation Control (FOC) and Sine Wave PWM (SPWM) techniques because 120 degree or 180 degree conduction methods produce high value of THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) in the power system. The Indirect Field Orientation Control (IFOC) method is difficult to implement in real systems due to speed sensor accuracy issue. This paper discusses the problem with IFOC and a PWM based 180 degree conduction mode for the three phase inverter. The modified control method improves THD and this paper also compares the results obtained using modified control method with the conventional 180 degree conduction mode.
Comparison of Operational Losses under Rated and Nonlinear Loads for 2 kVA Three-Phase Three Legged Dry Type Power Transformer
Authors: Mokhzaini Azizan Muhammad , Ismail Baharuddin , Masri Syafrudin , Saufi Ahmad Mohd , Mohd Isa Mohd Annuar , Asri Jusoh Mohd
Published: September 2015

This paper produces experimental results comparing operational loss of a power transformer under rated and nonlinear load. A 2kVA three phase three legged dry type power transformer is primarily designed for rated loss; however it is operated with a nonlinear load. Three phase rectifier with variable capacitors is the selected current harmonic source and the distortion at current waveform is controlled by the capacitance values. Initially the operation losses under rated load is measured and then followed with measurement with nonlinear load. At the end of this paper, both type of operation losses is compared and differentiated.
Electricity Generation from Sewerage Sludge in Microbial Fuel Cell, Considering the Effect of Glucose
Authors: Muaz M.Z.M. , Mashitah M.D.
Published: September 2015

Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) technology utilizes bacterial growth in carbon-containing substrates to generate electricity. For direct production of electricity, this MFC operates aerobically at the cathode and anaerobically at the anodes. This study tested the effect of glucose (10 %, 20 %, 30 %, 40 % and 50 % (w/w)), on the growth of bacteria, and then subsequent electricity production after 144 hours of the incubation period. Obvious substrate degradation rates (SDE) were detected in MFC fed with initial glucose concentration of 20 % (w/w) and 30 % (w/w) at 46.29 % and 40.27 %, respectively. The former generated 0.808 mW and the later was 0.736 mW. Glucose, being a basic component for growth of electrogenic bacteria influenced electricity generation. Higher the glucose concentration supplemented to the sludge, the more saturated the substrate was. Hence, inhibited the bacterial growth, and reduced electricity generation.
Review and Evaluation of Characterization First Return Stroke in the Measured Lightning Electric Fields on Malaysia Data
Authors: Arshad S.N.M. , Ab Kadir Mohd Zainal Abidin , Izadi Mahdi , Ariffen A.M. , Hamzah M.N. , Gomes Chandima , Jasni J. , Rameli Norhidayu
Published: September 2015

In this paper, the characterization of measured electric fields on first return stroke due to lightning channel was studied done. Likewise, previous studies on this case were discussed and reviewed accordingly. Furthermore, the first return stroke was analyzed done in detailed and was indicated on the real measured electric fields. Later the results were discussed appropriately. The behaviorsof first return stroke signal has beencharacterized from previous researchers. This study shows themeasured data in detailed, which include there are slow front time, first return stroke peak, time to peak, zero crossing time and 10% to 90% rise time. The characteristic of first return stroke signal data in Malaysia was compared with data gathered in Sweden. Moreover In addition, the statistical correlation between electric field zero times and corresponding rise times was also been studied.
Load Flow Analysis Using Improved Newton-Raphson Method
Authors: Seng Chieng Kai , Tien Tay Lea , Nanda Janardan , Masri Syafrudin
Published: September 2015

This paper describes a simple, reliable and swift load-flow solution method with a wide range of practical application. It is attractive for accurate or approximate off-and on-line calculations for routine and contingency purposes. It is applicable for networks of any size and can be executed effectively on computers. The method is a development on conventional load flow principle and its precise algorithm form has been determined to bring improvement to the conventional techniques. This paper presents a comparative study of the new constant Jacobian matrix load flow method built based on several conventional NR load flow methods. Assumptions are made so as to make the matrix constant, thus eliminating the need of calculating the matrix in every iteration. The proposed method exhibits better computation speed.
Review of Radio Frequency for Home Appliances
Authors: Azizan N.H. , Rahman D.H.A. , Abdullah Ahmad Zaidi , Amlus M.H.
Published: September 2015

Smart homes and environments have been discussed and hyped for many years now, and despite technological advances, future visions and dreams the concept of a smart home remains distant and unfamiliar. People are becoming increasingly more mobile in this fast faced society as has been seen by the number of cell phones in existence. We believe that the home of the future will have the capability of being completely controlled by some remote device using of radio frequency (RF) remote control to controls the home appliances.In this paper we describes a review of radio frequency for home appliances. The scope of this research work is based on comparison between radio frequency controller and infra red controller. The research methodology involved the limitation, specification, bandwidth range between two type controller.Finally the result, will be observe and analyze to obtain better solution in the future.
A Radio Frequency Remote Switch for Home and Office Appliance
Authors: Abdullah Ahmad Zaidi , Azizan N.H. , Amlus M.H.
Published: September 2015

In modern society, more appliances have been presented in a home and office. It comes out a problem that how to manage and control these increasing various appliances efficiently and conveniently so as to achieve more comfortable, security and healthy space at home. This paper presents a new concept of home automation as a solution to save the cost and reduce the cost of material (cable) and also to reduce the voltage drop in the wiring system for a home and office. The result for this paper is based onapplication of the wireless switch (transmitter and receiver) for home appliance such as lighting, fan only that installed at terrace house. A procedure has been developed to predict, study, design, simulate and troubleshooting the RF Remote Switch. This paper also discuss and made a comparison with the current wiring system in terms of cost saving, maintenance and voltage drop.
Optimal Operation of Multi-Chillers for Energy Saving Using a Multi-Fuzzy Inference System
Authors: Hamid Elnazeer , Nallagownden Perumal , bin Mohd Nor Nursyrizal , Sundaram Muthuvalu Mohana
Published: September 2015

The demand for cooling and air-conditioning is growing due to increasing demand for comfort level and cooling loads. The chilled-water systems (chillers) are one of the energy consuming appliances that consume large amount of energy in buildings. Under these circumstances, energy management system carried out to achieve the objective of using the minimum possible energy, while maintaining the comfort levels and the production rates in factories. This paper proposes an optimal operation for the chillers with the partial load ratio (PLR) and partial storage system (PSS) based on Fuzzy Inference System (FIS). Simulation results are presented to show the effectiveness of technique for energy saving of the Screw Chillers in large building as compared with ON-OFF control system.
The Performance of a Heat Exchanger Designed for Cooling Electric Vehicle Car Battery System by Use Base Fluid and Nano-Fluid
Authors: Bin-Abdun Nazih A. , Razlan Zuradzman Mohamad , Shahriman A.B. , Hazry D. , Khairunizam Wan , Yaacob Sazali , Ahmed S. Faiz , Hussain Abadalsalam T. , Kamarudin Hussin
Published: September 2015

This study examines the design of heat exchanger made of copper tube for cooling electric vehicle car battery system and the effects of base fluid and nanofluid (as coolants) channeling inside the heat exchanger to increase heat transfer between the compartment of the electric vehicle car and the heat exchanger and comparison between them. The nanofluid (CuO/pure water) was prepared by dispersing a nanoparticle (CuO) in base fluid (pure water). nanofluid (CuO/pure water) with a nominal diameter of 50 nm at volume concentrations (0.27 Vol. %) at batteries’ compartment temperature was used for these investigations. The analysis showed that secondary cooling system by means of nanofluid (CuO/pure water) has advantages in improving the thermal conductivity and heat transfer coefficient, better from base fluid (pure water) also in Nusselt number. This results work on reducing the electric power loss in the form of thermal energy from batteries. This led to increase in the efficiency of the electric vehicle car battery, hence also improved the performance of the EV car and battery lifetime.
Development of Novel Fire Alarm Warning System Using Automated Remote Messaging Method
Authors: Jamri M.S. , Bohari Zul Hasrizal , Baharom M.F. , Jali M.H. , Nasir M.N.M. , Izzuddin T.A.
Published: September 2015

This paper discussed on design and development of fire warning system using automated remote messaging method. This device enables to alert the owner whenever fire occur that need rapid attention towards the building. This is maybe due to carelessness of user or gas leakage. Fire warning system is an existing project but it will be enhanced. This project discussed the design and implementation of a fire alarm system using the microcontroller which controlled the entire system. This system comprised of smoke detector that linked to PIC and GSM Modem. When smoke detected, the fire alarm will triggered and send a signal to the PIC. The PIC will process the data and transmit the signal to the GSM modem. The GSM modem will send message to alert the building owner. The owner can make further action by informing the nearest fire department. This module is applied for transferring of GSM SMS message to the owner mobile number. The devices can be the early and fast prevention system for building owner.
The Electrical Behaviour of Polymer Insulator under Different Weather Conditions
Authors: Abd Rahman M.S.B. , Izadi Mahdi , Ab Kadir M.Z.
Published: September 2015

This paper presents the behavior of 33kV polymer insulator under nominal voltage and impulse by means of lightning activities. The electrical performance of the insulator is translated to electric field under uniform weather conditions which comprises of air humidity and contamination. ANSYS Maxwell modeling software is used to simulate the structure of the polymer insulator based on the real existing insulator’s dimension. The trend of electric field increase is discussed in detail.
High-Intensity Acoustic Chamber System Spectrum Profiling for Satellite Launching Environment
Authors: Tauhid Ahmad Noor Hidayah , Salim Nurliza , Tan Adhwa Amir , Ibrahim Syahrim Azhan , Ismail Maszlan
Published: September 2015

Assembly, Integration and Test Centre at National Space Agency (ANGKASA) consist of Reverberation Acoustic Test Facility (RATF). The test facility are used to generate very high sound pressure levels for satellite testing, space vehicle components including flight hardware. This reverberant type of chamber is capable to simulate acoustic field of rocket launch. This paper is discussed on the requisite of high-intensity acoustic testing. The characteristic of chamber and the noise generating capabilities for high-intensity acoustic testing are described. The maximum requirement of chamber at 155dB spectrum profiling result is discussed in this paper.
Considering on Electric Fields due to Transmission Line
Authors: Izadi Mahdi , Ab Kadir Mohd Zainal Abidin , Hajikhani Maryam
Published: September 2015

. In this paper, the electric fields due to a Malaysian transmission line was considered and the values of electric fields at different distances with respect to power line were evaluated and the evaluated fields were compared with the corresponding acceptable ranges of fields and the results were discussed accordingly. Moreover, the values of fields under different ground conditions were estimated and the results were discussed.
Power System Dynamic Study for Distributed Generation Interconnection to Distribution Network
Authors: Tang Jun Huat , Busrah A.M. , Wanik M.Z.C.
Published: September 2015

One of the major concerns for the interconnection of distributed generation (DG) to distribution network is the technical issues associated from the connection. In the conventional distribution network, the power flow is uni-directional, from centralizes power plants to transmission and then to distribution before it supplied to the customer. However, with the anticipated amount of DG connected at distribution network, power flow is no longer uni-directional. Due to this fact, it is crucial to perform power system study to ensure the system stability is not deteriorating. This paper discusses the dynamic analysis to examine the electromechanical transient responses of the DG unit under various system faults and contingency situations. This contents presented in this paper can facilitate DG developers, consultants, contractor and utility engineer in planning for the new connection of DG to the distribution network.
A Study on the Lightning Impulse Breakdown Voltages of Palm Oil and Coconut Oil by Different Methods
Authors: Thien Y.V. , Azis N. , Jasni J. , Ab Kadir Mohd Zainal Abidin , Yunus Robiah , Ishak Mohd Taufiq , Hamzah N.R.
Published: September 2015

In recent years, there have been a number of interests on the Palm Oil (PO) and Coconut Oil (CO) as a potential alternative dielectric insulating fluid in transformers which stimulate different types of studies on these oils properties. Among the important studies is the lightning impulse properties. This paper presents the investigation on the lightning impulse breakdown voltage of PO and CO under non-uniform electric field. The PO used in this study is Refined, Bleached and Deodorized Palm Oil (RBDPO) Olein type. The influence of the testing methods, rising-voltage and up-and-down are investigated at 2 gap distances for both oils. It was found that the lightning breakdown voltage performance for some of the RBDPO and CO are comparable to MO.
Spirituality, shifting identities and social change: Cases from the Kalahari landscape
Authors: Lange Mary E. , Dyll-Myklebust Lauren
Published: September 2015

Storytelling, art and craft can be considered aesthetic expressions of identities. Kalahari identities are not fixed, but fluid. Research with present-day Kalahari People regarding their artistic expression and places where it has been, and is still, practised highlights that these expressions are informed by spirituality. This article explores this idea via two Kalahari case studies: Water Stories recorded in the Upington, Kakamas area, as well as research on a specific rock engraving site at Biesje Poort near Kakamas. The importance of the Kalahari People’s spiritual beliefs as reflected in these case studies and its significance regarding their identities and influence on social change and/or community development projects is discussed. The article thus highlights ways in which spirituality can be considered in relation to social change projects that are characterised by partnerships between local community, non-government and tertiary education representatives and researchers and that highlight storytelling as an integral part of people’s spirituality.
Morality and spirituality: The missing link for economic development in the 21st century
Authors: Kame Greg , Tshaka Rothney S.
Published: September 2015

Whilst religion may have been of relevance in the quest for material prosperity and economic advancement in the 16th century, it seems not to have such importance today. The declining rate of organised religion and the growth of secularism around the world progressively lead many to believe that if there is any truth particularly relevant for this century, it is no longer found in religion. In this paper, we argue that global leadership deficiencies and corruption (glaring as they may be) are not the root causes for the economic development challenges currently faced in Southern Africa and the rest of the world. They are simply the result of the root cause, which we maintain is a decline in moral and spiritual values in society, and unless national governments make some meaningful progress in these realms, this generation is headed for serious economic trouble.
Mixed Phenotype Acute Leukemia with Two Immunophenotypically Distinct B and T Blasts Populations, DoublePh+Chromosome and Complex Karyotype: Report of an Unusual Case
Authors: Kohla Samah A. , Sabbagh Ahmad Al , Omri Halima El , Ibrahim Firyal A. , Otazu Ivone B. , Alhajri Hessa , Yassin Mohamed A.
Published: September 2015

Mixed phenotype acute leukemia (MPAL) is considered as a rare type of leukemia with an incidence of less than 4% of all acute leukemia based on the most recent 2008 WHO classification. Common subtypes are the B/myeloid and T/myeloid; B/T and trilineage MPAL being extremely rare. We present a case of a male in his 20s, whose peripheral blood smears showed 34% blast cells and bone marrow with 70% blasts. Immunophenotyping by multiparametric flow cytometry showed two populations of blasts, the major one with B-lineage and the minor one with T-lineage. Conventional karyotyping revealed complex karyotype with the presence of double Philadelphia chromosome ( Ph+). BCR/ABL1 rearrangement was confirmed by fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis. The BCR/ABL1 ES probe on interphase cells indicated pl90 minor m-BCR/ABL fusion in 46% and a second abnormal clone with double Ph+in 16% of the cells analyzed confirmed by reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR). The case was diagnosed as MPAL with double Philadelphia chromosome Ph+. The patient was treated with dasatinib, four cycle hyper CVAD/methotrexate cytarabin protocol, and allogeneic transplant. He is still alive in complete hematological, cytogenetic, and molecular remission. Mixed phenotype B/T acute leukemia is an extremely rare disease, particularly those with double Philadelphia chromosomes and clinically presents challenges in diagnosis and treatment.
Combining Motivational and Physical Intervention Components to Promote Fall-Reducing Physical Activity Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: McMahon Siobhan Kathleen , Wyman Jean F. , Belyea Michael J. , Shearer Nelma , Hekler Eric B. , Fleury Julie
Published: September 2015

Purpose.

To assess the feasibility of a new intervention, Ready~Steady, in terms of demand, acceptability, implementation, and limited efficacy.

Design.

Randomized controlled trial; repeated measures.

Setting.

Two rural communities in Itasca County, Minnesota.

Subjects.

Thirty participants were randomized to an intervention (n = 16) or attention-control (n = 14) group.

Intervention.

Ready~Steady combined two components: (1) motivational (motivational support, social network support, empowering education), and (2) fall-reducing physical activities (PAs; guidance to practice leg-strengthening, balance, and flexibility activities and walking).

Measures.

Acceptability questionnaire and Indices of Procedural Consistency (investigator developed), Community Health Activity Model Program for Seniors Questionnaire (confirmed with accelerometry), Short Physical Performance Battery, Perceived Environmental Support Scale, Social Support for Exercise Questionnaire, Goal Attainment Scale, Index of Readiness, and Index of Self-Regulation.

Analysis.

Descriptive statistics and a marginal approach to repeated-measures analysis of variance, using mixed-model procedures.

Results.

Attrition was 7% and mean attendance was 7.2 of 8 sessions, participants evaluated Ready~Steady as acceptable, and implementation fidelity was good. The intervention group improved significantly more than the attention-control group in PA behavior, F1,27 = 11.92, p = .002; fall risk (functional balance and strength), F1,27 = 14.89, p = .001; support for exercise from friends, F1,27 = 11.44, p = .002; and self-regulation, F1,26 = 38.82, p < .005.

Conclusion.

The Ready~Steady intervention was feasible as evidenced by low attrition and good attendance and implementation, as well as positive effects on targeted outcomes and theoretical mechanisms of change.
The Effects of Telecommuting Intensity on Employee Health
Authors: Henke Rachel Mosher , Benevent Richele , Schulte Patricia , Rinehart Christine , Crighton K. Andrew , Corcoran Maureen
Published: September 2015

Purpose.

To investigate the influence of the intensity of telecommuting on employee health.

Design.

Study design comprised a longitudinal analysis of employee demographic data, medical claims, health risk assessment data, and remote connectivity hours.

Setting.

Data from Prudential Financial served as the setting.

Subjects.

Active employees ages 18 to 64 years who completed the health risk assessment between 2010 and 2011 were the study subjects.

Measures.

Measures included telecommuting status and intensity, and eight indicators of health risk status (obesity, depression, stress, tobacco use, alcohol abuse, poor nutrition, physical inactivity, and an overall risk measure), with employee age, sex, race-ethnicity, job grade, management status, and work location as control variables.

Analysis.

Health risks were determined for nontelecommuters and telecommuters working remotely ≤8, 9 to 32, 33 to 72, and ≥73 hours per month. Longitudinal models for each health risk were estimated, controlling for demographic and job characteristics.

Results.

Telecommuting health risks varied by telecommuting intensity. Nontelecommuters were at greater risk for obesity, alcohol abuse, physical inactivity, and tobacco use, and were at greater overall risk than at least one of the telecommuting groups. Employees who telecommuted ≤8 hours per month were significantly less likely than nontelecommuters to experience depression. There was no association between telecommuting and stress or nutrition.

Conclusion.

Results suggest that employees may benefit from telecommuting opportunities.
Promoting Diet and Physical Activity in Nurses
Authors: Torquati Luciana , Pavey Toby , Kolbe-Alexander Tracy , Leveritt Michael
Published: September 2015

Objective.

To systematically review the effectiveness of intervention studies promoting diet and physical activity (PA) in nurses.

Data Source.

English language manuscripts published between 1970 and 2014 in PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and EMBASE, as well as those accessed with the PICO tool, were reviewed.

Study Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria.

Inclusion criteria comprised (1) nurses/student nurses working in a health care setting and (2) interventions where PA and/or diet behaviors were the primary outcome. Exclusion criteria were (1) non–peer-reviewed articles or conference abstracts and (2) interventions focused on treatment of chronic conditions or lifestyle factors other than PA or diet in nurses.

Data Extraction.

Seventy-one full texts were retrieved and assessed for inclusion by two reviewers. Data were extracted by one reviewer and checked for accuracy by a second reviewer.

Data Synthesis.

Extracted data were synthesized in a tabular format and narrative summary.

Results.

Nine (n = 737 nurses) studies met the inclusion criteria. Quality of the studies was low to moderate. Four studies reported an increase in self-reported PA through structured exercise and goal setting. Dietary outcomes were generally positive, but were only measured in three studies with some limitations in the assessment methods. Two studies reported improved body composition without significant changes in diet or PA.

Conclusions.

Outcomes of interventions to change nurses’ PA and diet behavior are promising, but inconsistent. Additional and higher quality interventions that include objective and validated outcome measures and appropriate process evaluation are required.
Development and Pilot Test of the Workplace Readiness Questionnaire, a Theory-Based Instrument to Measure Small Workplaces’ Readiness to Implement Wellness Programs
Authors: Hannon Peggy A. , Helfrich Christian D. , Chan K. Gary , Allen Claire L. , Hammerback Kristen , Kohn Marlana J. , Parrish Amanda T. , Weiner Bryan J. , Harris Jeffrey R.
Published: September 2015

Purpose.

To develop a theory-based questionnaire to assess readiness for change in small workplaces adopting wellness programs.

Design.

In developing our scale, we first tested items via “think-aloud” interviews. We tested the revised items in a cross-sectional quantitative telephone survey.

Setting.

The study setting comprised small workplaces (20–250 employees) in low-wage industries.

Subjects.

Decision-makers representing small workplaces in King County, Washington (think-aloud interviews, n = 9), and the United States (telephone survey, n = 201) served as study subjects.

Measures.

We generated items for each construct in Weiner’s theory of organizational readiness for change. We also measured workplace characteristics and current implementation of workplace wellness programs.

Analysis.

We assessed reliability by coefficient alpha for each of the readiness questionnaire subscales. We tested the association of all subscales with employers’ current implementation of wellness policies, programs, and communications, and conducted a path analysis to test the associations in the theory of organizational readiness to change.

Results.

Each of the readiness subscales exhibited acceptable internal reliability (coefficient alpha range, .75–.88) and was positively associated with wellness program implementation ( p < .05). The path analysis was consistent with the theory of organizational readiness to change, except change efficacy did not predict change-related effort.

Conclusion.

We developed a new questionnaire to assess small workplaces’ readiness to adopt and implement evidence-based wellness programs. Our findings also provide empirical validation of Weiner’s theory of readiness for change.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors Related to Sodium Intake and Reduction Among Adult Consumers in the United States
Authors: Patel Deesha , Cogswell Mary E. , John Katherine , Creel Stephanie , Ayala Carma
Published: September 2015

Purpose.

To describe the prevalence and determinants of sodium-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors among U.S. adults

Design.

A cross-sectional survey was used.

Setting.

The study was set in the United States in 2012.

Subjects.

Participants were 6122 U.S. adults.

Measures.

Sodium-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors were measured.

Analysis.

Chi-squared tests were used to determine differences in sodium-related knowledge, attitude, and behaviors by respondent characteristics; multiple logistic regression was used to examine associations between selected respondent characteristics and health professional advice, reported action, or knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors (adjusted for all other respondent characteristics).

Results.

About three-fourths of respondents answered eating too much sodium is “somewhat” or “very” harmful to their health. Twenty-six percent reported receiving health professional advice, and 45% reported taking action to reduce their sodium intake. The prevalence of reported action was highest among adults receiving advice, those with hypertension, blacks, and those aged ≥65 years. Sixty-two percent who reported action agreed that most of their sodium comes from processed or restaurant foods. Of those reporting action, the most common tactics to reduce sodium intake were checking nutrition labels, using other spices than salt, and choosing low-sodium foods; requesting lower-sodium options when eating out was the least common tactic.

Conclusion.

Results suggest almost half of adults overall and the vast majority of those receiving health professional advice are taking some action to watch or reduce sodium intake. Although a substantial proportion report using recommended tactics to lower intake, many are not using the most effective tactics. In order to reach the general population, health communication messages could be simpler and focus on the most effective tactics to reduce sodium intake. Furthermore, health professionals can help reduce sodium intake by discussing the benefits of sodium reduction and tactics to do so, regardless of a hypertension diagnosis.
Does Skin in the Game Matter if You Aren’t Playing? Examining Participation in Oregon’s Public Employee Health Engagement Model
Authors: Wright Bill J. , Dulacki Kristen , Rissi Jill , McBride Leslie , Tran Sarah , Royal Natalie
Published: September 2015

Purpose.

Employers are increasingly exploring health benefits that incentivize lifestyle change for employees. We used early data from an ongoing study of one such model—the Health Engagement Model (HEM), which Oregon implemented for all public employees in 2012—to analyze variation in employee participation and engagement.

Design.

A survey was designed to assess program engagement, opinions of the program, and self-reported lifestyle changes.

Setting.

Data were collected in 2012, about 9 months after HEM launched.

Subjects.

A representative random sample of 4500 state employees served as the study subjects.

Measures.

Primary measures included whether employees signed up for the program, completed its required activities, and reported making lifestyle changes.

Analysis.

Logistic regression was used to analyze survey results.

Results.

Most employees (86%) chose to participate, but there were important socioeconomic differences: some key target populations, including smokers and obese employees, were the least likely to sign up; less educated employees were also less likely to complete program activities. Despite mostly negative opinions of the program, almost half of participants reported making lifestyle changes.

Conclusion.

Oregon’s HEM launch was largely unpopular with employees, but many reported making the desired lifestyle changes. However, some of those the program is most interested in enrolling were the least likely to engage. People involved with implementing similar programs will need to think carefully about how to cultivate broad interest among employees.
The Introduction of a Supermarket via Tax-Credits in a Low-Income Area
Authors: Elbel Brian , Mijanovich Tod , Kiszko Kamila , Abrams Courtney , Cantor Jonathan , Dixon L. Beth
Published: September 2015

Purpose.

Interest and funding continue to grow for bringing supermarkets to underserved areas, yet little is known about their impact.

Design.

A quasi-experimental study was used to determine the impact of a new supermarket opening as a result of tax and zoning incentives.

Setting.

The study took place in the South Bronx, New York City, New York.

Subjects:

Studied were residents of two South Bronx neighborhoods deemed high need.

Measures.

Food purchasing and consumption were examined via surveys and 24-hour dietary recalls before and at two points after the supermarket opened (1–5, 13–17 months).

Analysis.

Data were analyzed using difference-in-difference models controlling for gender, race and ethnicity, age, education, marital status, and self-reported income. Ordinary least squares and logistic regression models were estimated for continuous and binary outcomes, respectively.

Results.

At baseline, 94% to 97% of consumers shopped at a supermarket. There was a 2% increase in this behavior in the intervention community ( p < .05) not seen in the comparison community. One year later there was a 7% net increase in eating at home ( p < .1) and a 20% decrease in drinking sugary beverages ( p < .05), but no appreciable change in fruit/vegetable consumption or overall dietary quality.

Conclusion.

The new supermarket did not result in substantial or broad changes in purchasing patterns or nutritional quality of food consumed, though smaller, positive changes were observed over a 1-year period. Future work should examine different contexts and a broader set of outcomes, including economic development.
Individual earnings and household incomes: mutually reinforcing inequalities?
Authors: Salverda Wiemer
Published: September 2015

Inequality's rise and impacts deservedly receive much attention in scientific and public debates, with most of the attention being paid to the very top of the income or wealth distribution. This contribution complements this with a study of the broader top – the top 10 per cent – where labour-market outcomes play a predominant role. However, the analysis still needs to come to terms with the death of the single-breadwinner model and its replacement with two or more earners in the household. At the same time this brings in the (household distribution of) hours of work as an important new dimension of inequality, in addition to the traditional wage levels. It will be shown, using data for 26 EU countries, that these changes complicate the linkages of wage inequality and income inequality and add to the importance of employee earnings for income inequality. For this analysis, aggregate inequality measures will be put aside in favour of a more detailed consideration across the distributions of earnings and incomes. Some implications for analysis and policy are discussed in the conclusion.
Why economics textbooks should, but don't, and won't, change
Authors: Colander David
Published: September 2015

The standard textbook presentation of many policy issues, such as the financial crisis and income distribution, is problematic. This view is shared by many economists, both mainstream and heterodox. Despite this agreement, it has not and will not change because the textbook presentations have become institutionalized, and are intricately connected to the existing institutional structure. This paper explains why that is the case, arguing that we should not expect the economics profession to exhibit a composite rationality as economists focus on local incentives tied to existing institutional structures. It discusses how presenting policy within a complexity frame may make it more likely that, if the stars align just right, change will be more likely.
New macroeconomics teaching for a new era: instability, inequality, and environment
Authors: Harris Jonathan M.
Published: September 2015

The financial crisis of 2008 and its aftermath offer an opportunity to institute significant reform in economics teaching, starting at the introductory level. Mainstream macroeconomics texts still rely heavily on a classical assumption of a long-run full employment equilibrium, which underrates the possibility, severity, and duration of economic crises. They have little treatment of inequality, virtually no consideration of its macroeconomic effects, and pay almost no attention to the environment. A better approach starts with the use of a dynamic AS/AD model, with inflation rather than the price level on the vertical axis, avoiding the spurious implication that there is some stable price level at which the entire macroeconomy will reach equilibrium. With this approach, there is no presumption that the economy will automatically return to a situation of full employment. Rather, there is an important role for conscious fiscal and monetary policy. In this context, it becomes possible to discuss how economies can be characterized by different equilibria and disequilibria, varied growth paths with different environmental impacts, and inherent instability. The analysis can be used to illustrate recent and historical shifts in the economy and economic policy responses. While not necessarily tied to the concept of a ‘green economy,’ a more dynamic analysis is strongly compatible with an environmental interpretation of macroeconomics, including environmental policy to respond to global climate change and other problems.
Comprehensive mapping and characteristic regimes of aerosol effects on the formation and evolution of pyro-convective clouds
Authors: Chang D. , Cheng Y. , Reutter P. , Trentmann J. , Burrows S. M. , Spichtinger P. , Nordmann S. , Andreae M. O. , Pöschl U. , Su H.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. A recent parcel model study (Reutter et al., 2009) showed three deterministic regimes of initial cloud droplet formation, characterized by different ratios of aerosol concentrations (NCN) to updraft velocities. This analysis, however, did not reveal how these regimes evolve during the subsequent cloud development. To address this issue, we employed the Active Tracer High Resolution Atmospheric Model (ATHAM) with full microphysics and extended the model simulation from the cloud base to the entire column of a single pyro-convective mixed-phase cloud. A series of 2-D simulations (over 1000) were performed over a wide range of NCN and dynamic conditions. The integrated concentration of hydrometeors over the full spatial and temporal scales was used to evaluate the aerosol and dynamic effects. The results show the following. (1) The three regimes for cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) activation in the parcel model (namely aerosol-limited, updraft-limited, and transitional regimes) still exist within our simulations, but net production of raindrops and frozen particles occurs mostly within the updraft-limited regime. (2) Generally, elevated aerosols enhance the formation of cloud droplets and frozen particles. The response of raindrops and precipitation to aerosols is more complex and can be either positive or negative as a function of aerosol concentrations. The most negative effect was found for values of NCN of ~ 1000 to 3000 cm−3. (3) The nonlinear properties of aerosol–cloud interactions challenge the conclusions drawn from limited case studies in terms of their representativeness, and ensemble studies over a wide range of aerosol concentrations and other influencing factors are strongly recommended for a more robust assessment of the aerosol effects.
Influence of Temperature, Roughness and Washer Shape on Crevice Corrosion for 254 SMO Alloy
Authors: Arab Sanaa , Emran Khadijah , Alghamdi Huda , Abdulsalam Mohammed
Published: September 2015

Effect of temperature, roughness and washer shape on 254 SMO alloy was applied to study the susceptibility of alloy's crevice corrosion. XPS measurements have been carried out to detect and define the products which formed on the surface of 254 SMO in 22% NaCl at 30oC at applied potential 600 mVSCE. The formation of Fe, Cr and Mo compounds which play a great role to protect the alloy was found.
Effect of Tiger Nut Residue Flour Inclusion on the Baking Quality of Confectionaries
Authors: J. Eke- Ejiofor, , J. N. Deedam,
Published: September 2015

Cakes and biscuits were prepared from blends of wheat and tiger nut residue flours produced using raw and dry extraction method and substituted at 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% levels. The cakes and biscuits were analyzed for proximate composition, physical characteristics and sensory properties. Results for proximate composition indicated that moisture, fibre, ash, protein and fat contents increased with an increase in tiger nut residue substitution. Ash content for cake increased from 0.93% in sample A (100% wheat flour) to 1.40% in sample E (80% wheat flour: 20% tiger nut residue flour), while ash for biscuit increased from 1.35% in sample A (100% wheat flour) to 1.85% in sample B (95% wheat flour: 5% tiger nut residue flour). Fibre content for cake increased from 1.08% in sample A (100% wheat flour) to 3.15% in sample E (80% wheat flour:20% tiger nut residue flour) as substitution increased, while for biscuit fibre increased from 1.59% in sample A (100% wheat flour) to 3.13% in sample D (85% wheat flour:15% tiger nut residue flour). Moisture content for cake increased from 21.95% in sample A (100% wheat flour) to 28.49% in sample E (80% wheat flour: 20% tiger nut residue flour) while for biscuit moisture increased from 1.08% in sample A (100% wheat flour) to 2.78% in sample B (95% wheat flour: 5% tiger nut residue flour). There was a statistical significant difference in all samples with increase in substitution. Result for physical characteristics showed a significant (p ≤ 0.05) increase in cake volume and spread ratio of biscuit with increase in level of substitution of tiger nut residue flour. Sensory evaluation result for cakes showed sample E (80% wheat flour:20% tiger nut residue flour) as most acceptable for cakes, in terms  of color (4.3), aroma (3.95), taste (4.2), texture (4.05) and general acceptability (4.3) while for biscuits sample B(95% wheat flour:5% tiger nut residue flour) as most acceptable in terms of color (4.15) aroma, (4.0) taste, (4.15) texture (4.3) and overall acceptability (4.35).
Proximate Composition, Physical and Sensory Properties of Cake Prepared from Wheat and Cocoyam Flour Blends
Authors: Alozie Yetunde E , Chinma Chiemela E.
Published: September 2015

The effect of replacing wheat flour with cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) flour on the proximate composition, physical, sensory properties of cake were investigated. Baking trials were conducted at different levels of substitution (0, 20, 40, 50, 60, 80 and 100%). Cocoyam flour had higher values (p < 0.05) in all functional characteristics evaluated except for emulsifying capacity. Cake weights and volume increased with increasing cocoyam flour substitution while volume index decreased. Protein and fat contents of cake samples decreased (p< 0.05) with increasing levels of cocoyam flour substitution while ash and fibre contents increased. There was no significant (p > 0.05) difference in crust colour of samples. In terms of textural preference, cake prepared from 100% cocoyam flour was significantly higher than 100% wheat cake. Utilization of wheat-cocoyam flour blends in composite cake preparation will be beneficial to the nutrition of vulnerable groups considering the higher ash and fiber contents of of composite cake, and reduced carbohydrate and fat contents than control.
Planar Octilinear Drawings with One Bend Per Edge
Authors: Bekos Michael , Gronemann Martin , Kaufmann Michael , Krug Robert
Published: September 2015

In octilinear drawings of planar graphs, every edge is drawn as a sequence of horizontal, vertical and diagonal (45°) line segments. In this paper, we study octilinear drawings of low edge complexity, i.e., with few bends per edge. A k-planar graph is a planar graph in which each vertex has degree at most k. In particular, we prove that every 4-planar graph admits a planar octilinear drawing with at most one bend per edge on an integer grid of size O(n2) ×O(n). For 5-planar graphs, we prove that one bend per edge still suffices in order to construct planar octilinear drawings, but in super-polynomial area. However, for 6-planar graphs we give a class of graphs whose planar octilinear drawings require at least two bends per edge for some edges.
Central neural circuitry mediating courtship song perception in male Drosophila
Authors: Zhou Chuan , Franconville Romain , Vaughan Alexander G , Robinett Carmen C , Jayaraman Vivek , Baker Bruce S
Published: September 2015

Animals use acoustic signals across a variety of social behaviors, particularly courtship. In Drosophila, song is detected by antennal mechanosensory neurons and further processed by second-order aPN1/aLN(al) neurons. However, little is known about the central pathways mediating courtship hearing. In this study, we identified a male-specific pathway for courtship hearing via third-order ventrolateral protocerebrum Projection Neuron 1 (vPN1) neurons and fourth-order pC1 neurons. Genetic inactivation of vPN1 or pC1 disrupts song-induced male-chaining behavior. Calcium imaging reveals that vPN1 responds preferentially to pulse song with long inter-pulse intervals (IPIs), while pC1 responses to pulse song closely match the behavioral chaining responses at different IPIs. Moreover, genetic activation of either vPN1 or pC1 induced courtship chaining, mimicking the behavioral response to song. These results outline the aPN1-vPN1-pC1 pathway as a labeled line for the processing and transformation of courtship song in males.