bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Method for Low Manufacturing Cost and High Assembly Quality
Authors: Li Z. K. , Wang F. , Gao L. , Fan Y.J.
Published: September 2011

This paper analyzes the problems in traditional manufacturing and assembly, puts forward the Estimation Indication for Cost of Quality Losing in an optimization assembly which will be based on RFID. Though this assembly is a kind of selective one, the whole production will be according to the law of interchangeability. Take the hydrostatic bearing for example, and reduce the machining accuracy on the permitted assembling accuracy. At this condition, the quality of assembly will be guaranteed, but the cost and time of manufacturing will be decreased.
Research on the Layout and Process of the Beverage Packaging Line Using High Speed Robots
Authors: Mei Jiang Ping , Yu Dong Xing , Cheng X.Q. , Gao B.
Published: September 2011

To save the labor cost, industry robot is applied in production line. This paper deals with the design of the beverage packaging line using high speed robots, which will be applied in Hangzhou Wahaha Group Co., Ltd. to satisfy their requirement. On the basis of investigation of the previous line, the packaging process is briefly addressed. Taking into account the circumstance of the workshop area, the layout of the packaging line is proposed. With Petri net technology, the model of the beverage packaging line is built and by analyzing the model, it is proved that the whole system is reachable, bounded and reversible. In addition, the Petri net model builds the theoretical basis for the network control of the whole packaging line.
Surface Damages Generated in Hole Making of a Cast Nickel-Based Alloy
Authors: Xue C. , Chen Wu Yi
Published: September 2011

The effects of cutting parameters and tool wear on the surface damage generated in hole making of cast GH625 nickel-based alloy were investigated. The machined surfaces were examined by employing a scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM micrographs of the machined surfaces showed that surface damages induced by boring operation comprised surface cavities, smeared material and ridges parallel to feed marks. Surface cavities were associated with the carbide particles contained in workpiece material and the intrinsic defect of cast GH625 alloy. The cutting conditions had little impact on the extent of surface cavities, but they significantly affected the extent of smearing. Severe smearing of workpiece material could occur at higher cutting speed due to the relatively high cutting temperature generated and the relatively rapid tool wear.
Thermal Performance Analysis Based on Micro-Channel Structure of Heat Sink
Authors: Sun Hai Gang , Zhou Yong
Published: September 2011

Thermal performance determines the normal operation of electronic circuits and power devices. The required cooling capacity is always increasing with the abroad application of electronic system. Especially in high frequency and large power fields, the defection of fan-cooled radiator comes out. By comparison, liquid cooling system possesses better heat stability and conductivity, which not only improves the stability of system, but also reduces the working costs greatly. Cooling capacity of heat sink is mainly determined by the inner mechanical structure, it is necessary to study the different influences of related structure, so as to guide the structural design of heat sink effectively. Based on thermal analysis by changing a single structure parameter, the structural influences on thermal performance are discussed, and the acquired conclusions are of great importance in thermal design practice of heat sink.
Statistical Modeling of Surface Roughness in Hard Milling H13 Steel
Authors: Zhang Song , Li Jiang Feng , Ding Tong Chao
Published: September 2011

Surface roughness is one of the most important requirements in the cutting process. In this paper, advantages of Taguchi’s experimental design technique, experimental measurements, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) are integrated to statistically investigate surface roughness in hard milling H13 steel (HRc50±1) with coated round inserts under dry cutting conditions. A 12-parameter cubic regression model for surface roughness is developed, which simultaneously takes into consideration the main effects and the interactions of four cutting parameters. A good correlation is observed between the predictive values and the experimental data.
Explicit Dynamics Simulation Research on Soil Cutting of Shield Machine Based on LS-DYNA
Authors: Wang X.G. , Guo Wei , Liu Jian Qin
Published: September 2011

In this paper, the universal nonlinear finite element software LS-DYNA is applied to the explicit dynamics simulation of shield’s soil cutting in tunneling, and using Non-reflective boundary of DYNA’s module, accurately conduct the dynamic analysis of shield’s tunneling. Finally Making visualization processing on the computed results with the post-processing soft LS-PREPOST. Compared with results of static’s simulation and small-sized shield experiment indoor, the explicit dynamics simulation used in the paper is in good agreement with them. Through the alleosis chat of internal energy, we can see that LS-DYNA can be commendably utilized to explicit dynamics simulation of soil cutting of shield’s cutter, simultaneously, we also concluded that moderately increasing the cutter opening rate will have a significant impact on improving the unearthed rate of soil residue, tunneling efficiency and lowering the total thrust force of the shield.
The Module Partition Approach for the Personalized Products and Production
Authors: Chen F.Y. , Zhang G.W.
Published: September 2011

The rational and effective partition of the module has been the vital significance to the product design and manufacture. In this paper, a deficiency about the existing module partition can’t satisfy customer personalized is pointed out. Therefore, a method is put forward based on the design method of axiomatic, by analyzing the correlation among the parts, combining the dynamical clustering and mathematical statistic calculation to achieve the rough-to-fine division according to the principles of module partition. Finally, the based modules and the personalized modules are determined through the choice of based parameters and personalized parameters. The basic module and personalized module are integrated on a personalized product platform base on Internet. Customer can directly involved the product design by personalized product platform. The model was explained with example of the gantry grinding machine tool.
Study of Steering Actuator of Static “Point-the-Bit” Rotary Steerable System
Authors: Bian J.H. , Niu W.T. , Wang L.N. , Liu Z.H. , Wang P.F.
Published: September 2011

This paper describes a new steering actuator of static “point-the-bit” rotary steerable system (RSS). It works by controlling the bias unit to give the mandrel an offset to the original axis, so as to drive the drill bit deviation from the borehole axis. The bias force is provided by the hydraulic cylinder. The steering actuator introduces two universal joints, which effectively improved the conditions of bearing high alternating stress, and the build up rate of the system. Mandrel’s static and kinematic equations were established on the basis of simplifying the mechanical structure model of the mandrel and bearing. Bending angle and deflection curve equation were derived and the position of the hydraulic cylinder was optimized. At last, the paper gives the control model of the bias unit.
Kinematics Modeling and Analysis of TBM Disc Cutter Based on D-H Matrix
Authors: Pu Y. , Liu Jian Qin , Guo Wei
Published: September 2011

The objective of this paper was to study tool wear condition and to guide the cutter configuration by studying the movement of the disc cutter of all-section rock Tunneling Boring Machine(TBM).Through the analysis of rock destruction process by disc cutter based on spatial geometry theory and D-H matrix, the kinematic model of work cutter in rock destruction process was established and the movement law of cutting-tool is concluded, which are beneficial for the research on wear of disc cutter, structural design and optimization design of cutting tool configuration.
Predict Stiffness of Hydraulic Press with Movable Eccentricity Loading Considering Uncertainty by Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Li Z.H. , Chen Y.L. , Li S. , Bi D.S.
Published: September 2011

The stiffness analysis method considering uncertainty parameters of frame hydraulic press with movable eccentricity loading in the early design stage was proposed. The mathematical analytical stiffness of the upper beam with movable eccentricity loading was built. The adaptive Monte Carlo Method was used to calculate the interval of the stiffness with random parameters. The result shows that the stiffness appears higher when the eccentricity increasing. The approach has been tested by measuring the stiffness of a 10000kN frame hydraulic press and a 15000kN frame hydraulic press.
An Analysis on Contact Line Performance of Offset Cylindrical Worm Gearing
Authors: Sun Y.H. , Wang S.P. , Yue Q.
Published: September 2011

Based on the theory of gear mesh, the contact line equation of involute offset cylindrical worm gearing, which is consisted of an involute helical gear with few teeth and a face gear in substance, is obtained. Furthermore, in order to investigate the influence of design parameters on the performance of contact line, numerical simulation of which is carried out. Analysis results indicate that an appropriate increase in helix angle and modulus as well as the teeth number of worm, reduction in the teeth number of worm gear can make the contact line performance better.
Study on a New Design Algorithm for Smooth Manufacture
Authors: Xing Y. , Qin Sheng Feng , Wang Tai Yong , Wang P.C. , Xing J.L.
Published: September 2011

To realize smooth manufacture of product with complex surface, a new algorithm, design for quality control (DQC), strongly connects design model and machining model. Geometry information in popular STL file in design industry was fast obtained and then exactly input into a grid-meshing model. For meeting precision requirement of machining model, quality-control parameter was employed to control subdivision times and the result-surface machining quality. Then the designed features of aesthetics surface or functional surface were kept in smooth manufacture with optimum quality. By self developed software for DQC in Visual C++, stability and reliability of this algorithm were proved.
Knowledge Representation Method of Product Design Based on Ontology
Authors: Sun J. , Guo Wei , Wang Lei , Zhang D.M.
Published: September 2011

According to the diversity, dynamic and correlation of product design knowledge; this paper put forward a knowledge representation method for product design based on ontology. Established a knowledge unit with the core of concepts set, property set, knowledge set and function set, introduced input and output module, to realize the information transmission between knowledge units, and also lays a foundation for knowledge networks construction, intelligent and agile design. Finally, this paper take cylindrical spiral spring design for example, verified the effectiveness of this method.
An Object-Oriented Modular Design Model Supported by Integrated Multi-Domain Knowledge
Authors: Li X. , Huang Yan Qun
Published: September 2011

To enhance the ability and reliability of product variant design, an object-oriented framework was constructed using an extensible module/product class for setting up a modular design model. A module/product in a class was identified as an object by encapsulating the involved information as properties and the transforming or interaction activities as operations. This extensible object was gradually optimized through communications with other objects and integrations of design knowledge in five domains. These include Customer, Functional, Physical, Process and Engineering, which is a new domain introduced in this paper. The programmatic framework was implemented and successfully demonstrated using some typical machine tool products.
The Explore of Synesthesia in Product Design in the Digital Age
Authors: Zhou L.Q.
Published: September 2011

Synesthesia is a psychological phenomenon generated by kinds of feelings which have an effect with each other. This paper introduces the production classification and understanding of synesthesia. At the same time, the paper analyze the application of synesthesia in streamline formstyle design , iMac computer design, and our daily life. There are full of all kinds of screen in today's digital age, leading to the extinction of sense of products’ dimension. The paper brings up to build the “five senses”: taste, smell, touch, hearing, visual to rethink the way of design concepts.
X-Ray and Photoacoustic Studies on Zircaloy-2
Authors: Palanichamy P. , Sivabharathy M. , Jeyadheepan K. , Kalyanasundaram P. , Ramachandran K. , Sanjeeviraja C.
Published: September 2011

Zircaloy-2, an useful nuclear material is studied here by photoacoustics to correlate with the measurements of X-rays. The microstructure variations observed in X-rays could be explained on the basis of thermal diffusivity measured by photoacoustics technique.
X-Ray Studies on PbS
Authors: Ambika M. , Saravanan R.
Published: September 2011

In this work, lead sulphide has been characterized using X- ray diffraction, SEM, EDX and UV-Visible techniques. X-ray analysis is done by using the Rietveld refinement method of matching the observed and calculated profiles, and then the results obtained from the refinement process are used in finding the electron density distribution by using maximum entropy method (MEM). The local structure analysis of PbS is done by the pair distribution function (PDF). Particle size analysis is done with the use of XRD data, SEM analysis is done in finding the surface structure and EDX in finding the elemental composition of PbS sample. The energy gap of PbS is found from UV-Visible spectrum.
Removal of Methylene Blue by Adsorption Process - A Comparative Study
Authors: Xavier A. , Gandhi Rajan J. , Usha D. , Sathya R
Published: September 2011

Methylene blue is a heterocyclic aromatic chemical compound with the molecular formula C16H18N3SCl. It has used in the biology and chemistry field. At room temperature, it appears as a solid, odourless dark green powder that yields blue solution when dissolved in water. As a part of removal of methylene blue dye from textile and leather industrial wastes, using activated carbon as adsorbents namely, commercial activated carbon (CAC), rose apple carbon (RAC), coconut shell carbon (CSC) and saw dust carbon (SDC). The percentage of Methylene blue adsorbed increases with decrease in initial concentration and particle size of adsorbent and increased with increase in contact time, temperature and dose of adsorbents. The pH is highly sensitive for dye adsorption process. The adsorption process followed first order kinetics and the adsorption data the modeled with Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms. The first kinetic equations like Natarajan Khalaf, Lagergren, Bhattacharya and Venkobhachar and intra particle diffusion were found to be applicable. A comparative account of the adsorption capacity of various carbons has been made. These activated carbons are alternative to commercial AC for the removal dyes in General and MB is particular. These results are reported highly efficient and effective and low cost adsorbent for the MB. The thermodynamics parameters are also studied and it obeys spontaneous process. The results are confirmed by before and after adsorption process with the help of the following instrumental techniques viz., FT-IR, UV-Visible Spectrophotometer and SEM photos.
Raman Characterisation of Carbon Nanotubes Grown by Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapour Deposition
Authors: Bissett Mark Alexander , Barlow Anders Jack , Shapter Joe George , Quinton Jamie Scott
Published: September 2011

Simple and up-scalable production of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) still remains difficult with current production methods. Plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition (PECVD) provides an excellent method for producing high purity and large amounts of carbon nanotubes. This work demonstrates how PECVD can be used to tailor the required properties in the resultant nanotubes produced. By altering only one of the growth variables the resultant CNTs can be altered from single-walled to multi-walled. This was achieved by altering the growth temperature from 450-650°C, altering the growth time and altering the underlying catalyst and supporting layer. High purity SWCNT and MWCNT could be produced and easily distinguished leading to a wide range of applications.
Tensile and Compressive Behaviours of a Boron Nitride Nanotube: Temperature Effects
Authors: Liao Ming Liang , Lian Ting Wei , Ju Shin Pon
Published: September 2011

Temperature effects on tensile and compressive behaviours of an (8,8) boron nitride nanotube (BNNT) were investigated via the molecular dynamics (MD) simulations with the Tersoff potential parameters determined by fitting the MD simulations results to those obtained from the density functional theory calculations. The force-matching method was employed in the fitting process. It was noticed that the failure strain of the BNNT decreases from 33.9% at temperature of 50 K to 26.7% at temperature of 300 K and the critical buckling strain degrades from 5.46% to 3.98%. No obvious yielding occurs before the tensile failure of the BNNTs. A chain-like tensile failure mode was observed prior to complete breaking of the BNNT. In addition, when the BNNT was loaded beyond the critical buckling strain it behaves in a symmetrical buckling mode with a flat cross section near the middle of the BNNT.
SiOx/GeOx Nanowires Grown via the Active Oxidation of Si/Ge Substrates
Authors: Collin Gabriel H. , Shalav Avi , Elliman Robert G.
Published: September 2011

Silica nanowires have recently been grown via the vapor-liquid-solid growth mechanism where the vapor precursor is obtained directly from the substrate via active oxidation processes. In this study, we extend this technique to the Ge-O system and show that Au coated Ge substrates can be used as a volatile GeO source, resulting in germania nanowire formation above 550°C. The process is highly dependent on Au and native oxide thickness’, the partial pressure of O2and annealing temperature. If the oxide layer is too thick, the bare wafer is protected from the active oxidation process. However, if the oxide layer is too thin, it will be readily decomposed leaving no stable surface for nanowires to grow and only an etched surface is observed. In this study we show that a native Ge oxide is unstable and that a thicker oxide is required as a buffer layer, separating active oxidation and nanowire nucleation processes. We also show that nanowires can be grown on stable oxide particles present on the Ge wafer surface.
Super Hybrid Materials
Authors: Adschiri Tadafumi , Takami S. , Minami K. , Yamagata T. , Miyata K. , Morishita T. , Ueda M. , Fukushima K. , Ueno M. , Okada T. , Oshima H. , Mitani Y. , Asahina S. , Unno S.
Published: September 2011

Various composite materials have been developed, but in many cases problems arise due to the combined materials such as fabrication becoming difficult because of the significant increase in viscosity, and transparency of the polymer is sacrificed. These issues can be overcome by controlling the nanointerface; however, this is considered as a difficult task since nanoparticles (NPs) easily aggregate in polymer matrices because of their high surface energy. Organic functionalization of inorganic NPs is required to increase affinity between NPs and polymers.
For fabricating multi-functional materials, we proposed a new method to synthesize organic modified NPs by using supercritical water. Because organic molecules and metal salt aqueous solutions are miscible in supercritical water and water molecules serve as acid/base catalysts for the reactions, hybrid organic/inorganic NPs can be synthesized under the supercritical condition. The hybrid NPs show high affinity for the organic solvent and the polymer matrix, which leads to the fabrication of these super hybrid NPs.
How to release the heat from the devices is the bottle neck of developing the future power devices, and thus nanohybrid materials of polymer and ceramics are required to achieve both high thermal conductivity and easy thin film flexible fabrication, namely trade-off functions. Surface modification of the BN particles via supercritical hydrothermal synthesis improves the affinity between BN and the polymers. This increases the BN loading ratio in the polymers, thus resulting in high thermal conductivity. Transparent dispersion of high refractive index NPs, such as TiO2 and ZrO2, in the polymers is required to fabricate optical materials. By adjusting the affinity between NPs and the polymers, we could fabricate super hybrid nanomaterials, which have flexiblility and high refractive index and transparency.
Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanorods and their Sensing Properties
Authors: Fang Fang , Futter John , Markwitz Andreas , Kennedy John
Published: September 2011

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods have been synthesized via the arc discharge method. Different cathode materials, graphite and copper, were applied to modulate the morphology and UV & humidity sensing properties of the as-synthesized ZnO nanorods. Compared with ZnO nanorods synthesized by graphite cathode, shorter length and other spherical and cubical structures were also detected for those ZnO nanorods synthesized by copper cathode. A better UV-sensitive photoconduction and higher humidity sensitivity were detected for ZnO nanorods synthesized by graphite cathode than those obtained by copper cathode, which is considered to be due to the higher aspect ratio for long ZnO nanorods. The simplicity of the synthesis route coupled with the modulation of morphology and sensing properties of ZnO nanorods make the arc discharge method a very promising way to produce high quality ZnO nanorods with adjustable morphologies.
Tunable Bragg Gratings in Polymer Thin Films
Authors: Quilty James W. , Williams Grant V. M.
Published: September 2011

Bragg gratings were inscribed in poled host-guest polymer thin films containing anelectro-optically active chromophore. Probing the grating in reflection, with a transparent con-ducting electrode on one side of the film and a gold-coated electrode on the other, a modulatingelectric field was observed to induce a modulation in the grating efficiency consistent with thatexpected from the measured electro-optic coefficient.
Characterization of CdTe X-Ray Sensor Layer on Medipix Detector Chips
Authors: Aamir Raja , Walsh Michael F. , Lansley Stuart P. , Doesburg Robert M. , Zainon Rafidah , De Ruiter N. J. A. , Butler Philip H. , Butler Anthony P. H.
Published: September 2011

We have been characterizing various sensor layers bump-bonded to Medipix detector chips. We report here characterizationthe leakage current variations of a cadmium telluride (CdTe) assembled-Medipix2 assemblyat different temperatures.Medipix detectors are being used in small animal computed tomography (CT) scanner systems known as MARS-CT. The spectroscopic imaging of a mouse and human atheroma using this system has previously been reported [1-2]. In those reports, Medipix2 detectors were used with Si and GaAs sensor layers, respectively. Cadmium telluride (CdTe) is expected to be a useful sensor layer for clinical CT imaging detectors because of its good detection efficiency for x-rays in the energy range up to 120 keV. However, Aan understanding of the detection characteristics of these sensor layers is vital to high-quality imaging. This work presents the results of inhomogeneities within the CdTe sensor, temperature variations and wrinkle pattern instability.We present leakage current variations with temperature and sensitivity inhomogeneity across the detector. This is an extension of the tests previously reported in Aamir R et al [1][3].
Development and Characterization of a Portable Fibre Optic Dosimeter
Authors: Williams Grant V. M. , Raymond Sebastiampillai G. , Denton Nick , Gaedtke Christn
Published: September 2011

A portable fibre optic dosimeter has been developed that uses transparent fluroperovskite dosimeters at the end of a multimode polymer fibre. It uses two stimulation sources that take advantage of the bimodal trap distribution so that the dose rate and cumulative dose can be monitored. Photoluminescence (PL), optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and radioluminescence (RL) measurements were made on nearly tissue equivalent NaMgF3:Eu2+, NaMgF3:Mn2+, and high sensitivity RbMgF3:Eu2+ and CsCdF3:Mn2+. Initial dose rate and dose measurements were made using our fibre dosimeter during and after exposure to 60 keV gamma rays.
Quantum Dot Uptake in the New Zealand Environment
Authors: Al Salim Najeh , Barraclough Emma , Burgess Elisabeth , Clothier Brent , Deurer Markus , Green Steve , Malone Louise , Weir Graham
Published: September 2011

The use of quantum dots (QDs) for different applications such as biomarkers has increased in the past decade. Here we report on the uptake of fluorescent QDs into agricultural soil, and transport following their ingestion by the larvae of some common lepidopteran insects. Some QDs were leached through soil but their emission was quenched due to geo-effect. In contrast, fluorescence was still seen in leafroller larvae fed with these QDs and in their frass.
Abbreviations: QD, quantum dot; NPs, Nanoparticles; Cys, cysteine; Gly, glycine; MPA, mercaptopropionic acid; MSA, mercaptosuccinic acid; AM, 2-aminoethanethiol; Na2EDTA, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt; PV, pore volume
Synthesis and Characterization of Polysulfobetaines and their Random Copolymers
Authors: Pei Yi Wen , Travas-Sejdic Jadranka , Williams David E.
Published: September 2011

[3-(Methacryloylamino) propyl) dimethyl (3-sulfopropyl) ammonium hydroxide] polymer, known as poly (MPDSAH), and the random copolymers based on methyl methacrylate (MMA), methacryloxyethyltrimethylammonium (METAC) and 3-sulfopropyl methacrylate potassium (SPMA) were synthesized via Reversible Addition-Fragmentation Chain Transfer (RAFT) polymerization technique. Solution properties of these (co) polymers in response to temperature and ionic strength have been studied using dynamic light scattering (DLS). For poly (MPDSAH), polymer size decreased from 500 nm to 10 nm (in diameter) when the polymer aqueous solution was heated up from 15°C to 60°C or added 20 mM sodium chloride. The solution behaviour of poly (METAC-stat-MMA-stat-SPMA) is opposite to that of poly (MPDSAH): the size of polymer increased from 10 nm to 20 nm (in diameter) depending upon the elevating temperature or the addition of salt.
Evaluation of Polyaniline for Packaging Applications
Authors: Nand Ashveen V. , Ray Sudip , Easteal Allan J. , Gizdaviz-Nikolaidis Marija , Cooney Ralph P. , Travas-Sejdic Jadranka , Kilmartin Paul A.
Published: September 2011

Polyanilines having two different morphologies (nanorods for NR-PANI and granular for G-PANI) were synthesized and subjected to thermal treatment. NR-PANI and G-PANI were thermally stable up to 300 and 250 °C respectively. Upon thermal treatment, both the polyanilines exhibited suppressed conductivity and free radical scavenging capacity. The polyanilines also became completely amorphous after treatment above 200 °C.
Class Participation in an Aboriginal Theatre Project: An Exemplar of Undergraduate Student Engagement
Authors: Ratsoy Ginny R.
Published: September 2011

In the 21st Century, Canadian universities are increasingly emphasizing the importance of student engagement. This research paper, by analyzing the reflections of undergraduate students on their experiences in a co-curricular service learning assignment – integrated into a course that included more traditional assignments – in the context of situated learning theory, advocates for a community-focused assignment as a component in a “traditional” lecture-and-discussion based course as a tool for enhanced engagement through active, collaborative learning. While the case study explored is a drama course, the anticipated audience is pan-disciplinary, as the article casts more broadly by providing brief, general guidelines on implementing an experiential learning assignment and encouraging all professors to reflect on their classroom theory and praxis to the end of augmenting student engagement.
Au 21e siècle, les universités canadiennes accordent une place de plus en plus importante à l’engagement des étudiants. Les auteurs de ce rapport de recherche analysent les réflexions des étudiants de premier cycle à propos d’un travail pratique (TP) qu’ils ont effectué dans le cadre de l’apprentissage par le service communautaire– intégré à un cours qui comprenait des TP plus traditionnels – dans le contexte de la théorie de l’apprentissage situé. Les auteurs préconisent des TP axés sur la collectivité en tant que composants d’un cours « traditionnel » comportant des exposés magistraux et des discussions. Ce type de TP est un outil permettant d’améliorer l’engagement grâce à l’apprentissage actif et collaboratif. L’étude de cas porte sur un cours d’art dramatique, mais le public visé par le présent article est multidisciplinaire. En effet, les auteurs de l’article considèrent les choses plus largement en fournissant de brèves directives générales sur la mise en œuvre d’un devoir dans le cadre de l’apprentissage expérientiel et encouragent tous les enseignants à réfléchir sur leurs stratégies d’enseignement théoriques et pratiques afin d’augmenter l’engagement des étudiants.
Fast array algorithm for filtering of Markovian jump linear systems
Authors: Terra Marco H. , Ishihara João Y. , Jesus Gildson
Published: September 2011

This paper deals with numerical performance of linear minimum mean square error estimator for discrete‐time Markovian jump linear systems. We propose a fast array algorithm to compute this estimator in virtue of the reduction of the computational effort that it provides, if compared with the standard array algorithms. It is particularly useful for this case because the dimension of the linear minimum mean square error estimator increases proportionally to the number of Markovian states. Numerical examples are shown to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Primary lymphedema with coarctation of the aorta: Possible new syndrome or variant of Irons–Bianchi syndrome?
Authors: Ferguson John S. , Gunatheesan Shymalar , Brice Glen , Hastings Rob , Newbury‐Ecob Ruth , Mortimer Peter S. , Mansour Sahar
Published: September 2011

We present a boy with congenital lymphedema, a congenital heart defect (coarctation of the aorta), and mild dysmorphic features. Clinical impression and targeted investigations ruled out Noonan syndrome and Milroy syndrome, but it was not clear whether or not he had Irons–Bianchi syndrome. We discuss the genomic and lymphoscintigraphy evaluation of this case, and review whether the small number of current case reports represent the original Irons–Bianchi syndrome or variants. We anticipate that ongoing molecular investigations such as Next Generation Sequencing will delineate a currently clinically defined phenotypic spectrum. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Temperature evaluated by ultrasonic technique during mixing process
Authors: Cheng Chin‐Chi , Lu Chi‐Huang
Published: September 2011

Temperature in internal mixer has been evaluated by ultrasonic measurements during the mixing process of low density polyethylene (LDPE) pellets with CaCO3 powder. The melting process of LDPE from solid pellets to polymer melt and the mixing progress of melted LDPE with CaCO3 powder were diagnosed by temperature and ultrasonic signatures on‐line. The improved factor analysis was utilized to evaluate the relationship between temperature and ultrasonic parameters and rebuilt the temperature. The estimated temperature value had an agreement with the raw data within 4%. The presented ultrasonic technique and evaluating methodology might be an optional approach to diagnose the mixing process of polymer with powder in the internal mixer and evaluate the temperature on‐line. © 2011 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of operation conditions for a pilot‐scale supercritical CO2 extraction of diterpenoid from Pteris semipinnata L.
Authors: Lu Yingnian , Zhu Baozhang , Wu Kefeng , Gou Zhanping , Li Li , Chen George G , Cui Liao , Liang Nianci
Published: September 2011

A pilot‐scale supercritical CO2 extraction process with extraction volume of 20 L was established with which the antitumor diterpenoid, ent‐11α‐hydroxy‐15‐oxo‐kaur‐16‐en‐19‐oic‐acid, was extracted from the medicinal herb Pteris semipinnata L. The experiments showed that many factors had great impacts on yields of the diterpenoid, such as extraction temperature, pressure, fluid flow rate, extraction time and modifier. For the extraction process of the diterpenoid from Pteris semipinnata L, the optimum operation conditions were as follows: extraction temperature of 55 °C, extraction pressure of 30 MPa, supercritical CO2 flow rate of 160 kg/h, extraction time of 4 h, and 10% ethanol as the modifier. Under such a condition, the diterpenoid was almost completely extracted from the material, and the yield was approximately 0.504 g/kg dry herb by high‐performance liquid chromatography analysis. The yield was approximately 2.8‐fold more than that of the normal solvent extraction. The experimental results demonstrate that the supercritical CO2 extraction process is rapid, highly efficient and with less consumption of organic solvents. © 2011 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of spatial confinement and selective distribution of CB particles on the crystallization behavior of polypropylene
Authors: Li Lan‐Peng , Wei Jia‐Li , Yin Bo , Yang Ming‐Bo
Published: September 2011

The effects of selective distribution of carbon black (CB) particles and spatial confinement on the crystallization behavior of isotactic polypropylene (iPP)/Polystyrene (PS)/CB composite were studied. The crystallization behaviors and the morphologies of the composite were studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), polarized light microscope (PLM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicated the typical cocontinuous structure appeared in PP/PS/CB (55/45/1) composite, and CB particles are distributed in PS phase, which follows the theory of interfacial tension. Compared with PP/CB composite, the nucleation effect of CB particles on the crystallization process of PP in PP/PS/CB was greatly weakened by selective distribution. Moreover, the morphologies of cocontinuous structure, which means that the crystallization process of PP had to take place in the micron‐scale spatial confinement formed by continuous PS phase, greatly influenced the crystallization behavior of PP in PP/PS/CB composite. The spherulite radial growth rate of PP in spatial confinement was lower than that of neat PP during isothermal crystallization processes, and the results of the total crystallization activation energy (ΔE) and the nucleation parameter (Kt) implied that in comparison to neat PP, the activation energy of PP chain segments arranged into crystal was higher in composite with cocontinuous structure. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Mixing efficiency in co‐rotating batch mixer for preparation of NR/EPDM blends
Authors: Chaisuriyathepkul Anont , Suchiva Krisda , Sae‐oui Pongdhorn , Sirisinha Chakrit
Published: September 2011

An in‐house developed co‐rotating batch mixer was used to prepare the blends of natural rubber (NR) and ethylene‐propylene‐diene terpolymer (EPDM) in the present work. Phase morphology and magnitude of dispersive mixing efficiency offered by the in‐house developed co‐rotating batch mixer and a conventional counter‐rotating batch mixer were compared. It has been found that the co‐rotating batch mixer equipped with the MX2 rotor configuration could improve the dispersive mixing efficiency of NR/EPDM blends considerably. A poor state‐of‐mix in blends, particularly at high fill factor, could be overcome by the utilization of MX2 rotor configuration where the extensional flow is probably facilitated in the converging zones. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Explaining spatial variability in stream habitats using both natural and management‐influenced landscape predictors
Authors: Anlauf K. J. , Jensen D. W. , Burnett K. M. , Steel E. A. , Christiansen K. , Firman J. C. , Feist B. E. , Larsen D. P.
Published: September 2011

The distribution and composition of in‐stream habitats are reflections of landscape scale geomorphic and climatic controls. Correspondingly, Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) are largely adapted to and constrained by the quality and complexity of those in‐stream habitat conditions. The degree to which lands have been fragmented and managed can disrupt these patterns and affect overall habitat availability and quality.

Eleven in‐stream habitat features were modelled as a function of landscape composition. In total, 121 stream reaches within coastal catchments of Oregon were modelled. For each habitat feature, three linear regression models were applied in sequence; final models were composed of the immutable and management‐influenced landscape predictors that best described the variability in stream habitat.

Immutable landscape predictors considered proxies for stream power described the majority of the variability seen in stream habitat features. Management‐influenced landscape predictors, describing the additional human impacts beyond that which was inherently entwined with the immutable predictors, explained a sizeable proportion of variability. The largest response was seen in wood volume and pool frequency.

By using a sequential linear regression analysis, management‐influenced factors could be segregated from natural gradients to identify those stream habitat features that may be more sensitive to land‐use pressures. These results contribute to the progressing notion that the conservation of freshwater resources is best accomplished by investigating and managing stream systems from a landscape perspective.

Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photodissociation Dynamics of Benzaldehyde (C6H5CHO) at 266, 248, and 193 nm
Authors: Bagchi Arnab , Huang Yu‐Hsuan , Xu Z. F. , Raghunath P. , Lee Yuan T. , Ni Chi‐Kung , Lin M. C. , Lee Yuan‐Pern
Published: September 2011

The photodissociation of gaseous benzaldehyde (C6H5CHO) at 193, 248, and 266 nm using multimass ion imaging and step‐scan time‐resolved Fourier‐transform infrared emission techniques is investigated. We also characterize the potential energies with the CCSD(T)/6‐311+G(3df,2p) method and predict the branching ratios for various channels of dissociation. Upon photolysis at 248 and 266 nm, two major channels for formation of HCO and CO, with relative branching of 0.37:0.63 and 0.20:0.80, respectively, are observed. The C6H5+HCO channel has two components with large and small recoil velocities; the rapid component with average translational energy of approximately 25 kJ mol−1dominates. The C6H6+CO channel has a similar distribution of translational energy for these two components. IR emission from internally excited C6H5CHO,ν3(v=1) of HCO, and levelsv≤2,J≤43 of CO are observed; the latter has an average rotational energy of approximately 13 kJ mol−1and vibrational energy of approximately 6 kJ mol−1. Upon photolysis at 193 nm, similar distributions of energy are observed, except that the C6H5+HCO channel becomes the only major channel with a branching ratio of 0.82±0.10 and an increased proportion of the slow component; IR emission from levelsν1(v=1) andν3(v=1 and 2) of HCO andv≤2,J≤43 of CO are observed; the latter has an average energy similar to that observed in photolysis at 248 nm. The observed product yields at different dissociation energies are compared to statistical‐theory predicted results based on the computed singlet and triplet potential‐energy surfaces.
Integrated model for denosumab and ibandronate pharmacodynamics in postmenopausal women
Authors: Marathe Dhananjay D. , Marathe Anshu , Mager Donald E.
Published: September 2011

This study aims to characterize the pharmacodynamic properties of denosumab, a RANK ligand inhibitor, and ibandronate, a bisphosphonate, using an integrated bone homeostasis model in postmenopausal women. Mean temporal profiles of denosumab, serum and urine N‐telopeptide (sNTX, uNTX), lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) following denosumab administration, and urine C‐telopeptide (uCTX) and lumbar spine BMD upon ibandronate administration were extracted from the literature. A mechanistic model was developed that integrates denosumab pharmacokinetics with binding to RANK ligand and ibandronate inhibition of osteoclast precursor differentiation to active osteoclasts (AOC). Biomarker concentrations were linked to the AOC pool. The BMD was characterized by a turnover model with stimulation of bone formation and degradation by AOB (active osteoblasts) and AOC pools. The estimated basal sNTX, uNTX and uCTX concentrations were 7.24 nm, 14.4 nmol/mmolCr and 31 µg/mmolCr. The BMD degradation rate was 0.00161 day‐1 with stimulation constants associated with AOB and AOC of 1214 and 790 pm‐1. The plasma ibandronate concentration producing 50% of maximum inhibition of osteoclast differentiation was 522 ng/l. The integrated model, which incorporates multiple pathways of therapeutic intervention, quantitatively describes changes in clinical biomarkers of bone turnover and BMD after denosumab and ibandronate exposures in postmenopausal women. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Beta2‐agonists use during pregnancy and the risk of congenital malformations
Authors: Eltonsy Sherif , Forget Amélie , Blais Lucie
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND

Treatment of asthma symptoms during pregnancy is crucial for maternal and fetal health. Short‐acting beta2‐agonists (SABA) are frequently used as rescue medications and long‐acting beta2‐agonists (LABA) are used as add‐on controller therapy for asthma during pregnancy.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to investigate the association between exposure to SABA and LABA in the first trimester of pregnancy and the risk of congenital malformations among women with asthma.

METHODS

A cohort of pregnancies from women with asthma was formed through linkage of three administrative databases from Québec, Canada. The primary outcomes were major and any congenital malformations. The primary exposures were exposure to SABA and LABA during the first trimester, while secondary exposure was weekly SABA doses. The associations between congenital malformations (any, major, and specific) and SABA and LABA exposure were assessed with generalized estimating equations models.

RESULTS

From a group of 13,117 pregnancies, we identified 1242 and 762 infants with any (9.5%) and major (5.8%) congenital malformations, respectively. The adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval [CI]) for any malformations associated with the use of SABA and LABA were 1.04 (95% CI, 0.92–1.17) and 1.37 (95% CI, 0.92–2.17), respectively. The corresponding figures were 0.93 (95% CI, 0.80–1.08) and 1.31 (95% CI, 0.74–2.31) for major malformations. Significant increased risks of major “cardiac” and major “other and unspecified” congenital malformations were observed with LABA use.

CONCLUSION

Our study supports the evidence of SABA safety during pregnancy, but more research is required to assess whether the increased risk of malformations among LABA users is due to the medication, bias by asthma severity, or chance alone. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Knowledge transfer and translation: Examining how teratogen information is disseminated
Authors: Shahin Ilan , Einarson Adrienne
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND

Well‐executed knowledge transfer and translation (KT) has become a vital part of effective health management. Following the thalidomide disaster, women and their health care providers became fearful of medications and environmental exposures that could affect the health of the unborn child. Therefore, it is important to disseminate evidenced‐based information to pregnant women and their health care providers, enabling them to make empowered decisions regarding exposures during pregnancy.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives were twofold: (1) to explore the knowledge transfer process of teratology information from the research community to health care providers, pregnant women, and the general public; and (2) to examine how this impacts pregnant women and their health care providers who require this information.

METHODS

We searched the peer reviewed literature (PUBMED, MEDLINE, and EMBASE), retrieved and examined original studies and review articles, and identified relevant data to evaluate how KT is conducted in this field.

RESULTS

We found that KT and teratology information is very complex, with confusing information, over‐estimated fears of teratogenicity, as well as unhelpful, often negatively biased information from the media. Of all the methods we identified, Teratogen Information Services (TIS) appears to conduct the most effective KT approaches in this field.

CONCLUSION

It is evident that KT in this area needs improvement. Women and their health care providers are highly impacted by the type of teratology information they receive, affecting for example, deciding to terminate a wanted pregnancy or discontinue a needed pharmacotherapy. When disseminating information in this very sensitive and complex field, it is imperative that good KT strategies are used, encompassing the availability and appropriate interpretation of information. It is most important that an evidence‐based decision is made to ensure the optimal outcome for both the mother and her unborn child Birth Defects Research (Part A) 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of magnetic fields on antioxidative defense and fitness‐related traits of Baculum extradentatum (insecta, phasmatodea)
Authors: Todorović Dajana , Mirčić Dejan , Ilijin Larisa , Mrdaković Marija , Vlahović Milena , Prolić Zlatko , Mataruga Vesna Perić
Published: September 2011

This study aimed to determine the effect of magnetic fields on the antioxidative defense and fitness‐related traits of Baculum extradentatum. Following exposure to magnetic fields, antioxidative defense (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) activities, and total glutathione (GSH) content) and fitness‐related traits (egg mortality, development dynamics, and mass of nymphs) were monitored in nymphs. The experimental groups were: control (kept out of influence of the magnets), a group exposed to a constant magnetic field (CMF) of 50 mT, and a group exposed to an alternating magnetic field (AMF) of 50 Hz, 6 mT. We found increased SOD and CAT activities in animals exposed to constant and AMFs, whereas GSH activity was not influenced by experimental magnetic fields. No differences were found in egg mortality between control and experimental groups. Significant differences in the time of development between the control and the CMF group were observed, as well as between the CMF and the AMF group. No differences were found in the mass of the nymphs between the three experimental groups. In conclusion, CMF and AMF have the possibility to modulate the antioxidative defense and some of the fitness‐related traits in B. extradentatum. Bioelectromagnetics 33:265–273, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Screening of Binary Solvent Mixtures and Solvate Formation of Indomethacin
Authors: Hellstén S. , Qu H. , Louhi‐Kultanen M.
Published: September 2011

The applicability of solubility parameters and solvent activity in the screening of binary solvent mixtures was studied. The solubility of indomethacin was measured in binary mixtures of dichloromethane, acetone, and ethyl acetate with methanol and ethanol. Solubility extremes in the mixed solvents were observed. The solubility maxima were related to the excess Gibbs free energy of the solvents and the hydrogen bonding term of the Hansen solubility parameter. The solvates of indomethacin were characterized with a confocal Raman spectrometer, and the desolvation of the solvates was investigated with thermogravimetry.