bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combustible solid waste gasification gas characteristics simulation based on Aspen Plus
Authors: Li Yanji , Zou Kewei , Yang Tianhua , Li Rundong , Chi Yong
Published: September 2013

Combustible solid waste gasification was simulated with Aspen Plus based on the principle of Gibbs free energy as well as mass and energy balance. Preheated air temperature and air equivalence ratio (ER) were found to have a crucial influence on gasification characteristics under 600  °C gasification conditions. Simulation results show that the optimum operating conditions are 0.4 air ER and 600  °C preheated air temperature. Aspen Plus is a favorable means to simulate the gasification process and provides good guidance for the experiment.
Wide bandgap Zn2GeO4 nanowires as photoanode for quantum dot sensitized solar cells
Authors: Lu Liyou , Chen Jiajun , Wang Wenyong
Published: September 2013

Zn2GeO4 nanowires were directly synthesized on fluorine-doped-tin-oxide substrates and were utilized as the photoanode in quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs). CdSe QDs were deposited on Zn2GeO4 nanowires using successive ion layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR), and absorption measurement was performed to inspect their bandgaps and corresponding band alignment with the Zn2GeO4 nanowires. The performance of the QDSSCs was characterized, and a relatively high VOC of 0.64 V was observed. Transient photocurrent and photovoltage decay measurements were also conducted to study carrier transport and recombination processes in the cells, and the obtained transport and recombination time constants and charge collection efficiency exhibited dependence on the number of SILAR coating cycles.
Hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds in β-sheet formation
Authors: Narayanan Chitra , Dias Cristiano L.
Published: September 2013

In this study, we investigate interactions of extended conformations of homodimeric peptides made of small (glycine or alanine) and large hydrophobic (valine or leucine) sidechains using all-atom molecular dynamics simulations to decipher driving forces for β-sheet formation. We make use of a periodic boundary condition setup in which individual peptides are infinitely long and stretched. Dimers adopt β-sheet conformations at short interpeptide distances (ξ ∼ 0.5 nm) and at intermediate distances (∼0.8 nm), valine and leucine homodimers assume cross-β-like conformations with side chains interpenetrating each other. These two states are identified as minima in the potential of mean force. While the number of interpeptide hydrogen bonds increases with decreasing interpeptide distance, the total hydrogen bond number in the system does not change significantly, suggesting that formation of β-sheet structures from extended conformations is not driven by hydrogen bonds. This is supported by an increase in electrostatic energy at short interpeptide distances. A remarkable correlation between the volume of the system and the total electrostatic energy is observed, further reinforcing the idea that excluding water in proteins comes with an enthalpic penalty. We also discuss microscopic mechanisms accounting for β-sheet formation based on computed enthalpy and entropy and we show that they are different for peptides with small and large side chains.
How thermoelectric properties of p-type Tl-filled skutterudites are improved
Authors: Kim Donghun , Kurosaki Ken , Ohishi Yuji , Muta Hiroaki , Yamanaka Shinsuke
Published: September 2013

The high-temperature thermoelectric properties of p-type Tl-filled skutterudites TlxFe1Co3Sb12 (x = 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8) were examined. While samples with x ≤ 0.4 were single-phase Tl-filled skutterudite, samples with x = 0.6 and 0.8 were composed of two phases: TlxFe1Co3Sb12 (x ≈ 0.4) as the matrix phase and a Tl-Fe-Sb ternary alloy. The thermal conductivity (κ) was reduced effectively by Tl addition, but the secondary phase increased κ slightly. The maximum value of the dimensionless figure of merit ZT (=S2T/ρ/κ, where T is the absolute temperature) was 0.36 at 723 K for Tl0.2Fe1Co3Sb12.
Influence of nanometer-sized interface on reaction of iron nanocrystals epitaxially grown on silicon substrates with oxygen gas
Authors: Hamanaka Hironobu , Nakamura Yoshiaki , Ishibe Takafumi , Kikkawa Jun , Sakai Akira
Published: September 2013

Iron (Fe) nanocrystals (NCs) were epitaxially grown on silicon (Si) substrates, where interfacial alloying of Fe and Si (silicidation) was prevented using an ultrathin SiO2 film. Nanowindows (NWs) composed of Si and germanium (Ge) were introduced into this SiO2 layer. The crystallographic arrangement of the Si substrates was conveyed though the NWs, while Fe and Si atoms were not intermixed. Reactions between the epitaxial Fe NCs and Si substrate in the presence of oxygen gas were also investigated. Oxygen atoms facilitated the diffusion of Fe from NCs to Si substrates mainly through Si NWs. As a result, increase of oxygen concentration led to Si oxidation near the interface. This means Fe NCs played a role like a catalysis for Si oxidation. The interfacial reaction was changed drastically by control of nanometer-sized interfaces using Ge NWs in the ultrathin SiO2 films.
Interface engineering through atomic dopants in HfO2-based gate stacks
Authors: Zhu H. , Ramanath Ganpati , Ramprasad R.
Published: September 2013

Controlling the effective work function (ϕeff) of metal electrodes is critical and challenging in metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistors. The introduction of atomic dopants (also referred to as “capping” layers) is an emerging approach to controllably modify ϕeff. Here, we investigate the energetic preference of the location of La, Y, Sc, Al, Ce, Ti, and Zr as atomic dopants within a model Pt/HfO2/Si stack and the resulting variation of ϕeff using density functional theory calculations. Our results indicate that all the considered atomic dopants prefer to be situated at the interfaces. The dopant-induced variation of ϕeff is found to be strongly correlated to the dopant electronegativity and location. Dopants at the metal/HfO2 interface decrease ϕeff with increasing dopant electronegativity, while a contrary trend is seen for dopants at the Si/HfO2 interface. These results are consistent with available experimental data for La, Al, and Ti doping. Our findings, especially the identified correlations, have important implications for the further optimization and “scaling down” of transistors.
The Unintended Consequences of Ecological Modernization: Debt-Induced Reconfiguration of the Water Cycle in Barcelona
Authors: March Hug , Saurí David
Published: September 2013

In the context of the European debt crisis, neoliberal reforms question the legitimacy of the state in the direct provision of basic services. Water governance mirrors such issues. In Metropolitan Barcelona (northeast Spain) the water cycle is being redrawn with the leasing to private hands of the regional public bulk water supplier. The unbearable debt accumulated by the Catalan Water Agency is used as the discursive justification of the ‘inevitability’ of granting to private capital the control over the water cycle. We attempt to demonstrate that this debt is the result of large investments, required by European directives (Wastewater Directive, Drinking Water Directive, and European Water Framework Directive) to improve the quality of rivers and water bodies. These directives, combined with the restrictions imposed on budget deficits by the European Union and the inadequate regional financing model of water have put the Catalan Water Agency against the wall. The financial crisis, wreaking havoc in Spain and Catalonia, has finally exacerbated the tensions around the water cycle as the Catalan administration has observed how international markets turned off the credit tap. In the paper we wish to elucidate pervasive processes of private participation in Metropolitan Barcelona and analyze the intricate relationship between the emergence and deepening of the recent crisis, scalar processes of ecological modernization, and the production of neoliberal natures.
Enhancing the productivity of dairy cows using amino acids
Authors: Liu Y. G. , Peng H. H. , Schwab C. G.
Published: September 2013

Since the revision of the National Research Council’s Nutrient Requirements of Dairy Cattle in 2001, significant progress has been made in balancing the amino acid composition of dairy cow diets. In formulating such diets, it is important not only to satisfy requirements for rumen degradable protein and rumen undegradable protein, but also to ensure a balanced ratio between the first two limiting amino acids, lysine and methionine, as well as with other amino acids. A lysine to methionine ratio of 3 : 1 in metabolisable protein (when using the NRC model) increases the cost-efficiency of diets and milk yield, and renders milk production more predictable. Moreover, balancing amino acids gives the opportunity to formulate diets with less rumen-undegradable protein, improves the cow’s health and reproductive performance, and decreases nitrogen excretion.
Implications and development of a net energy system for broilers
Authors: Swick Robert A. , Wu Shu-Biao , Zuo Jianjun , Rodgers Nicholas , Barekatain M. Reza , Choct Mingan
Published: September 2013

A study was conducted to determine the predictability of energy balance and energy efficiency by using dietary chemical composition. Closed-circuit indirect calorimetry was used to determine the apparent metabolisable energy (AME), respiratory quotient, heat increment (HI), net energy (NE) and ratio of NE to AME (NE : AME) of a series of diets with varying levels of chemical constituents. Diets were analysed for DM, gross energy, protein, fat, ash, crude fibre, acid detergent fibre, neutral detergent fibre, starch, sugars (mono- and disaccharides), and soluble, insoluble and total non-starch polysaccharides. Ross 308 male broilers were acclimatised to chambers and diets for 3 days and 12 days, respectively, before O2 consumption and CO2 expiration were measured gravimetrically. Gross energy of feed consumed and excreta voided were measured and AME was calculated. Heat production was calculated using the Brouwer equation based on O2 and CO2. After taking fasting heat production into account by using a value of 450 kJ/BW0.70, HI was determined. NE was calculated as AME minus HI. The results showed high predictability of AME (R2 = 0.89) and NE (R2 = 0.85) by using chemical components. HI was less predictable (R2 = 0.25). Efficiency of energy utilisation (NE : AME) was predicted (R2 = 0.40). Closed-circuit calorimetry was found to be useful for evaluating the contribution of the chemical components of feed ingredients to the efficiency of energy utilisation in broilers. These results may be used to reduce energy costs in broiler feed formulation.
Comparative dating of Acacia: combining fossils and multiple phylogenies to infer ages of clades with poor fossil records
Authors: Miller Joseph T. , Murphy Daniel J. , Ho Simon Y. W. , Cantrill David J. , Seigler David
Published: September 2013

The ubiquitous and highly diverse element Australian Acacia makes an ideal candidate for investigating a range of questions about the evolution of the flora of continental Australia. In the past, such efforts have been hampered by a lack of well-supported phylogenies and by the relatively poor macrofossil record, which probably reflects the depositional environment in which Acacia species are predominantly found. However, the broader subfamily Mimosoideae offers several reliably age-constrained fossils that can be used as calibrations in divergence-dating analyses of DNA sequence data. In addition, the microfossil pollen record of Acacia is relatively rich and provides a good age constraint for the entire Acacia clade. By using multiple reliable fossil constraints, we applied a combination of primary calibration points to produce a comprehensive study of divergence dates in Acacia s.s. and related mimosoid legumes. Previous dating studies included very limited samples of the diversity of Australian Acacia and experienced difficulties in identifying appropriate age calibrations for the lineage, leading to considerable variation in their results. We used novel calibration schemes and multiple nuclear and chloroplast DNA sequence markers to produce the first estimates of divergence dates for major lineages within the Australian Acacia s.s. clade and for related lineages across the Mimosoideae subfamily. We estimate average crown divergence dates for Vachellia at 13–17 Ma, Senegalia at 31.0–33.4 Ma and Acacia s.s. at 21.0–23.9 Ma. The timing of radiations within these lineages is consistent with the hypothesis that Miocene aridification in Africa, the Americas and Australia was a driver for the diversificationss of lineages in Acacia s.l.
Can robots be teammates?
Authors: Groom Victoria , Nass Clifford
Published: September 2013

The team has become a popular model to organize joint human–robot behavior. Robot teammates are designed with high-levels of autonomy and well-developed coordination skills to aid humans in unpredictable environments. In this paper, we challenge the assumption that robots will succeed as teammates alongside humans. Drawing from the literature on human teams, we evaluate robots’ potential to meet the requirements of successful teammates. We argue that lacking humanlike mental models and a sense of self, robots may prove untrustworthy and will be rejected from human teams. Benchmarks for evaluating human–robot teams are included, as are guidelines for defining alternative structures for human–robot groups.
Taxonomy.
Authors: Bhargava A. , Srivastava S.
Published: September 2013

This chapter focuses on the taxonomy of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) and related species based on protein analysis, phylogenetics, and molecular marker analysis.
Cytology and genome size.
Authors: Bhargava A. , Srivastava S.
Published: September 2013

This chapter summarizes cytological studies in quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa), including those covering chromosome structural/physical organization, chromosome number, cytological techniques, and nuclear DNA content.
Evaluation in Conflict Zones: Methodological and Ethical Challenges
Authors: Bush Kenneth , Duggan Colleen
Published: September 2013

This article explores the methodological and ethical challenges particular to the conduct and use of evaluations in conflict zones. It does this through examining the synergistic interaction of conflict dynamics and the four domains of evaluation — ethics, methodology, logistics, and politics. Drawing on evaluation theory and practice, as well as field experience, the article seeks to contribute to the building of a more methodologically self-conscious sub-field of evaluation in conflict zones — with implications not only for the field of evaluation, but also for researchers and practitioners in the fields of development, humanitarianism, peacebuilding, and private sector investment.
Comparable and Yet Context-Sensitive? Improving Evaluation in Violently Divided Societies through Methodology
Authors: Esser Daniel E. , Vanderkamp Emily E.
Published: September 2013

This article shows that the current stalemate in peacebuilding evaluation is due to disagreements between donor agencies, practitioners and scholar-practitioners about the necessity, appropriate level and purpose of such evaluations. It synthesises these three axes of disagreement in a theoretical framework, which is then applied to the case of evaluating reconciliation processes in violently divided societies. This application provides a clear methodological rationale for pursuing a metrics-driven, locally anchored approach to evaluating reconciliation instead of employing interpretive methods or globally standardised checklists. Realising the potential of this approach requires that donors, practitioners and researchers recast mutual expectations based on methodological rather than normative considerations.
Thinking Creatively about Methodological Issues in Conflict-Affected Societies: A Primer from the Field
Authors: Maphosa Sylvester Bongani
Published: September 2013

Conducting interviews and collecting data with which to evaluate peacebuilding programming may be problematic in many conflict-affected societies. However, many researchers do not document their dilemmas and chosen courses of action in data collection and analysis. This article explains the design, data collection, and analysis of a study that applied exploratory interpretive mixed methods to examine the impacts of one community-based peacebuilding intervention at the individual and village level in Burundi. It presents the procedures from field preparation to data analysis and candidly discusses the influence of methodological considerations in a conflict-affected setting on the unfolding research activity. While the approach may seem basic, this article seeks to shed light on the methodological choices faced by peacebuilding evaluators, thereby serving an important pedagogical function, and is intended equally for the benefit of experienced as well as novice researchers.
Pricing of Sovereign Credit Risk: Evidence from Advanced Economies during the Financial Crisis
Authors: Alper C. Emre , Forni Lorenzo , Gerard Marc
Published: September 2013

We investigate the pricing of sovereign credit risk over the period 2008–10 for selected advanced economies by examining two widely‐used indicators: sovereign credit default swap (CDS) and relative asset swap (RAS) spreads. Cointegration analysis suggests the existence of an imperfect market arbitrage relationship between the cash (RAS) and the derivatives (CDS) markets, with price discovery taking place in the latter. Likewise, panel regressions aimed at uncovering the fundamental drivers of the two indicators show that the CDS market, although less liquid, has provided a better signal for sovereign credit risk during the period of the recent financial crisis.
Accountability at the Local Level in Fragile Contexts: Bangladesh Case Study
Authors: Buchmann Daniela Christina
Published: September 2013

This paper, part of an IDS and Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation research project, is about the promotion of accountability at the local level in Bangladesh. By exploring in this context the legal grounds for accountability, the role of social hierarchies based on gender, education, family and wealth, and the impact of political alliances on accountability, the paper focuses on the social and political factors which may enable or prevent emerging accountability practices. The accountability practices studied in this context are local networks formed and supported by SDC's local governance programme Sharique. These networks strive to emerge as catalysts of social and economic development as well as good governance in Bangladesh. Composed of local governance actors, local networks bring information, spaces for participation and opportunities for oversight closer to citizens in rural Bangladesh, making it easier for them to benefit from accountability options provided by their government. This paper elaborates the strategy Sharique applies to help networks take on this role in a socially and politically divided context. It maintains that this strategy contributes to a transfer of power from a powerful individual to a group, setting off a process of collectivisation and affecting each member's role in engaging in local development and promoting accountability. However, the paper also draws attention to disparities that persist between members of the networks studied, with respect to different elements of accountability. It argues that the active promotion of all elements of accountability is necessary for Sharique to reach out to all populations through this initiative. It concludes that the success of accountability practices both on a conceptual and applied level is subject to clear differentiation between elements of accountability, which avoids relying on assumed casual connections between them.
Turning for Ulcer ReductioN: A Multisite Randomized Clinical Trial in Nursing Homes
Authors: Bergstrom Nancy , Horn Susan D. , Rapp Mary Pat , Stern Anita , Barrett Ryan , Watkiss Michael
Published: September 2013

Objectives

To determine optimal repositioning frequency of nursing home (NH) residents at risk for pressure ulcers (PrUs) when cared for on high‐density foam mattresses.

Design

Multisite, randomized, clinical trial, known as Turning for Ulcer ReductioN (TURN Study).

Settings

NHs in the United States (n = 20) and Canada (n = 7) using high‐density foam mattresses.

Participants

Consenting residents (N = 942) aged 65 and older without PrUs at moderate (scores 13–14) or high (scores 10–12) risk of PrUs according to the Braden Scale.

Intervention

Participants were randomly allocated using risk stratification (moderate vs high) to a repositioning schedule (2, 3, or 4 hour) for 3 weeks. Blinded assessors assessed skin weekly.

Measurements

PrU incidence (coccyx or sacrum, trochanter, heels).

Results

Participants were mostly female (77.6%) and Caucasian (80.5%) and had a mean age of 85.1 ± 7.7. The most common diagnoses were cardiovascular (76.9%) and dementia (72.5%). Nineteen (2.0%) participants developed superficial PrUs. There was no significant difference (Wilcoxon test for ordered categories) in PrU incidence (P = .68) according to repositioning group (2 hour, 8/321, 2.5%; 3 hour, 2/326, 0.6%; 4 hour, 9/295, 3.1%), nor was there a statistically significant difference in the incidence of PrU between the high and moderate‐risk groups (P = .79). Also, PrU incidence was not statistically significantly different between high‐risk participants based on repositioning schedule (6/325, 1.8%, P = .90) or between moderate‐risk participants based on repositioning schedule (13/617, 2.1%, P = .68).

Conclusion

There was no difference in PrU incidence over 3 weeks of observation between those turned at 2‐, 3‐, or 4‐hour intervals in this population of residents using high‐density foam mattresses at moderate and high risk of developing PrUs when they were repositioned consistently and skin was monitored. This finding has major implications for use of nursing staff and cost of NH care.
Effect of Flow Pattern at Pipe Bends on Corrosion Behaviour of Low Carbon Steek and its Challenges
Authors: Md Sheriff Jamaluddin , Muhammadu Muhamadu Masin , Hamzah Esah
Published: September 2013

Recent design work regarding seawater flow lines has emphasized the need to identify, develop, and verify critical relationships between corrosion prediction and flow regime mechanisms at pipe bend. In practice this often reduces to an pragmatic interpretation of the effects of corrosion mechanisms at pipe bends. Most importantly the identification of positions or sites, within the internal surface contact areas where the maximum corrosion stimulus may be expected to occur, thereby allowing better understanding, mitigation, monitoring and corrosion control over the life cycle. Some case histories have been reviewed in this context, and the interaction between corrosion mechanisms and flow patterns closely determined, and in some cases correlated. Since the actual relationships are complex, it was determined that a risk based decision making process using selected â€˜whatâ€™ if corrosion analyses linked to â€˜what ifâ€™ flow assurance analyses was the best way forward. Using this in methodology, and pertinent field data exchange, it is postulated that significant improvements in corrosion prediction can be made. This paper outlines the approach used and shows how related corrosion modelling software data such as that available from corrosion models NorsokÂ  M5006, and Cassandra to parallelÂ  computational flow modelling in a targeted manner can generate very noteworthy results, and considerably more viable trends for corrosion control guidance. It is postulated that the normally associated lack of agreement between corrosion modelling and field experience, is more likely due to inadequate consideration of corrosion stimulating flow regime data, rather than limitations of the corrosion modelling. Applications of flow visualization studies as well as computations with the k- Â model of turbulence have identified flow features and regions where metal loss is a maximum.Â
Kemampuan Berpikir Kritis dan Kreatif Matematis Siswa SMP Melalui Pembelajaran Berbasis Masalah dengan Strategi Konflik Kognitif
Authors: Ismaimuza Dasa
Published: September 2013

Keupayaan pemikiran pelajar dalam matematik adalah satu komponen penting yang perlu dimiliki oleh pelajar untuk membantu mereka dalam menyelesaikan masalah matematik berkaitan kehidupan seharian. Pembelajaran berasaskan masalah yang digabungkan dengan strategi konflik kognitif (PBLKK) boleh dilaksanakan untuk membangunkan keupayaan pemikiran kreatif. PBLKK adalah perbandingan struktur pembelajaran kognitif pelajar. Dalam keadaan ini, terdapat konflik antara pengetahuan yang dimiliki oleh pelajar-pelajar dan keadaan yang telah disediakan. Tujuan utama kajian adalah menentukan keupayaan pemikiran kreatif dalam kalangan pelajar sekolah menengah rendah. Kajian bereksperimen ini melibatkan populasi pelajar sekolah menengah rendah di bandar Palu. Sampel adalah 200 pelajar di SMPN 1, SMPN 6 dan SMPN 18. Instrumen yang digunakan dalam kajian ini termasuklah ujian matematik, rekod kemajuan pelajar, ujian kemahiran matematik dalam pemikiran kreatif. Data analisis dan ujian hipotesis yang digunakan adalah ujian-t, Anova sehala dan ujian Anova dua hala. Berdasarkan dapatan kajian didapati: (1) keupayaan pemikiran kreatif pelajar terhadap matematik yang menerima PBLKK mendapat keputusan yang lebih baik berbanding pelajar yang menerima pembelajaran konvensional (KV); (2) terdapat perbezaan dalam keupayaan pemikiran kreatif pelajar terhadap matematik berdasarkan pencapaian sekolah dan pengetahuan sedia ada pelajar; (3) Tidak terdapat interaksi antara pencapaian sekolah dan model pembelajaran ke atas keupayaan pemikiran kreatif dan kritis terhadap matematik dan tingkah laku pelajar; (4) Tidak terdapat interaksi antara pengetahuan pelajar sebelumnya dan model pembelajaran ke atas keupayaan pemikiran kreatif dan kritis terhadap matematik dan tingkah laku pelajar.
A Review on Influence of Alloying Elements on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Cu-Al-Ni Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Saud Safaa Najah , Hamzah Esah , Asma Abu Bakar Tuty , Hosseinian.S Raheleh
Published: September 2013

Cu–Al–Ni shape memory alloys (SMAs) have been developed for high temperatures engineering components such as sensor and actuators, due to their ability to work at temperatures near 200°C, rather than NiTi and Cu–Zn–Al alloys whose maximum working temperatures around 100°C. These alloys are widely used because they are much cheaper than NiTi/Cu-Zn-Al and do not require any complicated processing during their manufacturing as do for other shape memory alloys. In addition, these alloys have a small hysteresis and high transformation temperatures compared with other alloys. Despite all these advantages, these alloys have their limitations such as brittleness and low phase recovery strains and stress. The present review describes the role of alloying elements on the properties of Cu-Al-Ni shape memory alloys. It has been found that the additions of alloying elements have a significant effect on the formation, morphology, and structure of the obtained martensite, therefore, the properties of these alloys varied in accordance of these effects.
An Investigation of Safety Training and Safety Outcome in a Manufacturing Plant
Authors: Bahari Siti Fatimah
Published: September 2013

Safety training is considered as one of safety intervention that is believed to be an antecedent of safety outcome within organization. The rapid advancement in safety management field has also raised many questions mainly to the roles of safety training in organizations safety. Nevertheless, to date far too little discussions have been made to empirically study the impact of safety training and its influence to safety outcome in the workplace. Therefore, the purpose of this longitudinal study is two-fold, first it attempts to examine the level of safety training impacts over time, and secondly it seeks to examine the relationship between safety training and safety outcome (workplace accidents) over time. Quantitative approach using longitudinal design is employed for the purpose of data collection. The results were based on two data collection carried out in one of Malaysian manufacturing plant in 2008 and 2009. The response rate was 83% (N=330) in 2008 and 98% (N=402) in 2009. Overall, the current study has gone some way towards enhancing our understanding of safety training impacts particularly with regard to the improvement of safety outcome. However, this study has thrown up a number of questions in need to further investigation.  The need for further research to evaluate the effectiveness of a specific training intervention in reducing particular types of injury and its relation to safety culture over time in various industries is prevailing to be crucial.
Technology and Production Process of Malay Traditional Heritage Pottery in Malaysia
Authors: Haron Hamdzun , Abd Mutalib Narimah
Published: September 2013

Malaysia is one of the countries known with works of art especially the invaluable handicraft. The earliest creation of works of art crafted by human in this country existed since prehistoric age. Discovery of artifacts such as potsherds, weapons, ornaments and cooking utensils was a proof that human at that time had begun producing pots from clay, involved in handworks, carving and boat making. This discovery was an indication that the earlier human inhabitants were closely related to environment, and they can create utilitarian items using their creative thinking, technology and material from nature. One of Malay heritage crafts produced using technology is pottery. There are 3 types of pottery namely Mambong, Labu Tanah (clay pitcher) and Terenang. The first pottery showing form which stresses the predisposition of clay material and hand forming technique in producing pottery for cooking and mostly produced in Mambong, Kelantan. The second pottery was inspired by a gourd or pumpkin and developed to various forms of clay pitchers produced in Sayong and Pulau Tiga, Perak. The third pottery on the other hand was similar to metal form such as Terenang from Tembeling, Pahang. To ensure the survival of art heritage, various technologies were used in the production. The question is, what technology being used to achieve the objective? To get the answer, the researcher used qualitative descriptive research method which involved written data collection or visual data collection such as interview and observation. The result of the research showed that technology is indeed the root to the survival of those potteries. This can be seen through 4 major manufacturing aspect; Firstly the preparation of clay using human strength and plunger machine. Secondly, pottery forming using hands and moulds. The third aspect is the decoration techniques using various tools. Last but not least is the firing technology using kiln and firing in open trenches. It is hoped that this research will explain that Malay pottery heritage of Malaysia had gone through invaluable process of technology. It is indirectly saying that no matter what technology being used, it is none other than for the everlasting identity of  Malay heritage.
The Optimal Distribution of Chordwise Rib Fin Arrays for Blade Tip Cap Underside Cooling
Authors: Ledezma Gustavo A. , Bunker Ronald S.
Published: September 2013

A fundamental question in the design of fin-augmented heat transfer surfaces is how to determine the optimal spacing between the fins. It has already been demonstrated that considerable heat transfer augmentation in the underside of a high-pressure turbine (HPT) blade tip cap can be achieved using arrays of discrete shaped pins (Bunker, 2008, “The Augmentation of Internal Blade Tip-Cap Cooling by Arrays of Shaped Pins,” ASME J. Turbomach., 130(4), p. 041007). However, it is desirable to predict the maximum heat transfer augmentation that can be achieved by installing the array of fins and the geometric arrangement (fin-to-fin spacing) that has to be used to achieve such augmentation. In this paper chordwise parallel ribs installed on the underside of a blade tip cap are studied. The objective is to maximize the overall thermal conductance between the fin array and the surrounding fluid. The optimization is performed numerically in the range 25,000 < Re < 100,000 and Pr = 0.72. The behavior of the optimal spacing data is explained and correlated analytically using the method of intersecting the two asymptotes: small spacing and large spacing heat transfer (Bejan and Morega, 1994, “The Optimal Spacing of a Stack of Plates Cooled by Turbulent Forced Convection,” Int. J. Heat Mass Trans., 37, pp. 1045–1048).
Modeling and Boundary Control of a Hanging Cable Immersed in Water
Authors: Böhm Michael , Krstic Miroslav , Küchler Sebastian , Sawodny Oliver
Published: September 2013

A nonlinear distributed parameter system model governing the motion of a cable with an attached payload immersed in water is derived. The payload is subject to a drag force due to a constant water stream velocity. Such a system is found, for example, in deep sea oil exploration, where a crane mounted on a ship is used for construction and thus positioning of underwater parts of an offshore drilling platform. The equations of motion are linearized, resulting in two coupled, one-dimensional wave equations with spatially varying coefficients and dynamic boundary conditions of second order in time. The wave equations model the normal and tangential displacements of cable elements, respectively. A two degree of freedom controller is designed for this system with a Dirichlet input at the boundary opposite to the payload. A feedforward controller is designed by inverting the system using a Taylor-series, which is then truncated. The coupling is ignored for the feedback design, allowing for a separate design for each direction of motion. Transformations are introduced, in order to transform the system into a cascade of a partial differential equation (PDE) and an ordinary differential equation (ODE), and PDE backstepping is applied. Closed-loop stability is proven. This is supported by simulation results for different cable lengths and payload masses. These simulations also illustrate the performance of the feedforward controller.
Lattice Boltzmann Simulation of Heat Transfer Enhancement in a Cold Plate Using Porous Medium
Authors: Abouei Mehrizi Abbasali , Farhadi Mousa , Sedighi Kurosh , Latif Aghili Amir
Published: September 2013

The computational study of heat transfer and fluid flow in a porous media cold plate was investigated using lattice Boltzmann method. The study was carried out on a heat exchanger including two adiabatic inlet and outlet conduit and three hot fins with constant temperature. The porous medium is positioned between the fins to enhance heat transfer rate. The local thermal equilibrium assumption between the fluid and solid phases and the Brinkman–Forchheimer extended Darcy equation was used to simulate the porous domain. The effect of porosity on heat transfer from the fins surfaces was studied at different Reynolds and Prandtl numbers. Results show that by decreasing the porosity, the heat transfer rate increases and the fluid bulk temperature grows at less time for different Reynolds and Prandtl numbers.
Extensive Parametric Study of Heat Transfer to Arrays of Oblique Impinging Jets With Phase Change
Authors: Buchanan Robert A. , Shedd Timothy A.
Published: September 2013

This work presents the single- and two-phase results of a parametric study investigating the performance of oblique jet arrays impinging at 45 deg on a 3.63 cm2 square copper heater surface using R-245fa. It was found that the parameters that most impact heat transfer changed as the system progressed from single- to two-phase flow behavior. The single-phase performance was governed by the jet geometry and the volumetric flow rate, while in the two-phase region, heat transfer performance was primarily affected by the fluid conditions and the heat flux applied. A single-phase correlation was developed to capture the low heat flux response, and the two-phase results were well-correlated by a pool boiling correlation. A new general correlation for jet impingement heat transfer with phase change is presented combining these correlations. Critical heat flux (CHF) data were compared with literature correlations and a new correlation was developed for arrays of boiling jets.
Performance Characteristics of Metal Mesh Foil Bearings: Predictions Versus Measurements
Authors: San Andrés Luis , Abraham Chirathadam Thomas
Published: September 2013

Proven low-cost gas bearing technologies are sought to enable more compact rotating machinery products with extended maintenance intervals. The paper presents an analysis for predicting the static and dynamic forced performance characteristics of metal mesh foil bearings (MMFBs) which comprise a top foil supported on a layer of metal mesh of a certain compactness. The analysis couples a finite element model of the top foil and underspring support with the gas film Reynolds equation. A comparison of the predictions against laboratory measurements with two bearings aims to validate the analysis. The predicted drag friction factor in one bearing (L = D = 28.00 mm) during full film operation is just f ∼ 0.03 at ∼50,000 rpm, in good agreement with measurements at increasing applied loads. The predictions further elucidate the effect of the applied load and rotor speed on the bearing minimum film thickness, journal eccentricity, and attitude angle. For a second bearing (L = 38.0 mm, D = 36.5 mm), predicted bearing force coefficients show magnitudes comparable with the measurements, with less than a 20% difference, in the 250–350 Hz excitation frequency range. While the predicted direct stiffness coefficients are rather constant, the experimental force coefficients increase with frequency (maximum 400 Hz), due mainly to the increasing amplitudes of dynamic force applied to excite the bearing with a set amplitude of motion. The analysis underpredicts the direct damping coefficients at high frequencies (>300 Hz). The cross-coupled stiffness and damping coefficients are typically lower (<40%) than the direct ones. The bearings operated stably at all speeds without any subsynchronous whirl. The reasonable agreement of the predictions with the available test data promote the better design and further development of MMFB supported rotating machinery.
Full Genome Sequence of a Western Reference Strain of Bluetongue Virus Serotype 16 from Nigeria
Authors: Mertens Peter P. C. , Maan Narender S. , Belaganahalli Manjunatha N. , Singh Karam Pal , Nomikou Kyriaki , Maan Sushila
Published: September 2013

The genome of NIG1982/10, a Nigerian bluetongue virus serotype 16 (BTV-16) strain, was sequenced (19,193 bp). Comparisons to BTV strains from other areas of the world show that all 10 genome segments of NIG1982/10 are derived from a western lineage (w), indicating that it represents a suitable reference strain of BTV-16w.
Genome Sequence of Saccharopolyspora erythraea D, a Hyperproducer of Erythromycin
Authors: Liu Wei-Bing , Yu Wen-Bang , Gao Shu-Hong , Ye Bang-Ce
Published: September 2013

Saccharopolyspora erythraea
is a Gram-positive bacterium that can produce antibiotics. However, this microorganism must often be genetically improved for higher production before it can be used in an industrial setting. Here, we report the whole-genome sequence of the industrial hyperproducer strong mutator
Saccharopolyspora erythraea
strain D.
Quality of newborn care: adherence to guidelines for parenteral nutrition in preterm infants in four European countries
Authors: Lapillonne Alexandre , Carnielli Virgilio Paolo , Embleton Nicholas David , Mihatsch Walter
Published: September 2013

Objective

The level of adherence to guidelines should be explored particularly in preterm infants for whom poor nutrition has major effects on outcomes in later life. The objective was to evaluate compliance to international guidelines for parenteral nutrition (PN) in preterm infants across neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) of four European countries.

Design

Clinical practice survey by means of a questionnaire addressing routine PN protocols, awareness and implementation of guidelines.

Setting

NICUs in the UK, Italy, Germany and France.

Participants

One senior physician per unit; 199 units which represent 74% of the NICUs of the four countries.

Primary outcome measure

Adherence of unit protocol to international guidelines.

Secondary outcome measure

Factors that influence adherence to guidelines.

Results

80% of the respondents stated that they were aware of some PN clinical practice guidelines. For amino acid infusion (AA), 63% of the respondents aimed to initiate AA on D0, 38% aimed to administer an initial dose ≥1.5 g/kg/day and 91% aimed for a target dose of 3 or 4 g/kg/day, as recommended. For parenteral lipids, 90% of the respondents aimed to initiate parenteral lipids during the first 3 days of life, 39% aimed to use an initial dose ≥1.0 g/kg/day and 76% defined the target dose as 3–4 g/kg/day, as recommended. Significant variations in PN protocols were observed among countries, but the type of hospital or the number of admissions per year had only a marginal impact on the PN protocols.

Conclusions

Most respondents indicated that their clinical practice was based on common guidelines. However, the initiation of PN is frequently not compliant with current recommendations, with the main differences being observed during the first days of life. Continuous education focusing on PN practice is needed, and greater efforts are required to disseminate and implement international guidelines.
Has horsepox become extinct?
Authors: Esparza José
Published: September 2013

Mystery surrounds the extent to which horsepox virus may have contributed to the vaccinia virus used to eradicate smallpox. With few documented cases of horsepox in recent years it may never be solved, says José Esparza, who seeks to raise awareness of the potential historical and scientific importance of identifying new cases.
RADIATION FROM A D-DIMENSIONAL COLLISION OF SHOCK WAVES: NUMERICAL METHODS
Authors: SAMPAIO MARCO O. P.
Published: September 2013

We present a pedagogical introduction to the problem of evolving a head on collision of two Aichelburg–Sexl gravitational shock waves in D-dimensions, using perturbative techniques. We follow a constructive approach with examples, going in some detail through: the set up of the exact initial conditions and their properties; perturbative methods in flat space–time with Green function solutions; and numerical strategies to evaluate the integral solutions. We also discuss, briefly, radiation extraction methods adapted to this problem, together with some of the results for this system.
AN INTRODUCTION TO HIGH PERFORMANCE COMPUTING
Authors: ALMEIDA SÉRGIO
Published: September 2013

High Performance Computing (HPC) has become an essential tool in every researcher's arsenal. Most research problems nowadays can be simulated, clarified or experimentally tested by using computational simulations. Researchers struggle with computational problems when they should be focusing on their research problems. Since most researchers have little-to-no knowledge in low-level computer science, they tend to look at computer programs as extensions of their minds and bodies instead of completely autonomous systems. Since computers do not work the same way as humans, the result is usually Low Performance Computing where HPC would be expected.
NONCOMMUTATIVE FERMION MASS MATRIX AND GRAVITY
Authors: MARTINS RACHEL A. D.
Published: September 2013

The first part is an introductory description of a small cross-section of the literature on algebraic methods in nonperturbative quantum gravity with a specific focus on viewing algebra as a laboratory in which to deepen understanding of the nature of geometry. This helps to set the context for the second part, in which we describe a new algebraic characterization of the Dirac operator in noncommutative geometry and then use it in a calculation on the form of the fermion mass matrix. Assimilating and building on the various ideas described in the first part, the final part consists of an outline of a speculative perspective on (noncommutative) quantum spectral gravity. This is the second of a pair of papers so far on this project.
The Epidemiology and Evolution of Symbionts with Mixed-Mode Transmission
Authors: Ebert Dieter
Published: September 2013

Vertical and horizontal transmission are terms that describe the transfer of symbionts from parents to offspring and among unrelated hosts, respectively. Many symbionts, including parasites, pathogens, mutualists, and microbiota, use a combination of both strategies, known as mixed-mode transmission (MMT). Here I review what is known about the evolution, ecology, and epidemiology of symbionts with MMT and compare MMT with our expectations for single-mode strategies. Symbionts with MMT are common and, in comparison with single-mode symbionts, show many surprising features. MMT combines the best of two worlds with regard to the ecological conditions required for persistence and plays a role in the evolution of virulence and genome architecture. Even rare transmission by the minority type of these two transmission modes can make a big difference for the system. This review explores the conceptual issues surrounding the dynamics of mixed-mode symbionts by reviewing literature from the entire range of host and symbiont taxa.
New Gene Evolution: Little Did We Know
Authors: Long Manyuan , VanKuren Nicholas W. , Chen Sidi , Vibranovski Maria D.
Published: September 2013

Genes are perpetually added to and deleted from genomes during evolution. Thus, it is important to understand how new genes are formed and how they evolve to be critical components of the genetic systems that determine the biological diversity of life. Two decades of effort have shed light on the process of new gene origination and have contributed to an emerging comprehensive picture of how new genes are added to genomes, ranging from the mechanisms that generate new gene structures to the presence of new genes in different organisms to the rates and patterns of new gene origination and the roles of new genes in phenotypic evolution. We review each of these aspects of new gene evolution, summarizing the main evidence for the origination and importance of new genes in evolution. We highlight findings showing that new genes rapidly change existing genetic systems that govern various molecular, cellular, and phenotypic functions.
Antiparasitic Chemotherapy: From Genomes to Mechanisms
Authors: Horn David , Duraisingh Manoj T.
Published: September 2013

Owing to the absence of antiparasitic vaccines and the constant threat of drug resistance, the development of novel antiparasitic chemotherapies remains of major importance for disease control. A better understanding of drug transport (uptake and efflux), drug metabolism and the identification of drug targets, and mechanisms of drug resistance would facilitate the development of more effective therapies. Here, we focus on malaria and African trypanosomiasis. We review existing drugs and drug development, emphasizing high-throughput genomic and genetic approaches, which hold great promise for elucidating antiparasitic mechanisms. We describe the approaches and technologies that have been influential for each parasite and develop new ideas for future research directions, including mode-of-action studies for drug target deconvolution.