bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and Characterization of Acrylic/Nano-TiO2 Composite Latex
Authors: He Qiyang , Wu Limin , Gu Guangxin , You Bo
Published: July 2017

Acrylic/nano-TiO2 composite latex samples were prepared via high-shear stirring and mixing (SM), ball milling and mixing (BM) and in situ polymerization (IS) methods, and investigated by transmission electron micrography (TEM), testing with an Instron machine, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and ultraviolet-visible (UV-VIS) spectrophotometry. It was shown that the IS method led to the best dispersion of nano-TiO2 particles in acrylic copolymer films, the SM method was the second best and the BM method gave the least good result. Addition of nano-TiO2 by SM and BM methods led to higher tensile strength and Tg for polymers than introduction with micro-TiO2 and without any fillers. UV-VIS spectra indicated that addition of nano-TiO2 into acrylic copolymers could increase the absorbance and decrease the transmittance in the UV region, whereas the absorbance or transmittance in the UV region basically remained unchanged for the composites filled with micro-TiO2.
Polymerization of Formaldehyde and Phenol at Different Pressures
Authors: Gabilondo N. , Martin M. D. , Mondragon I. , Echeverria J. M.
Published: July 2017

Phenol-formaldehyde resole resins were investigated as regards their cure behaviour using both atmospheric and high-pressure conditions. Results obtained using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and solid-state 13C (cross-polarization/magic angle spinning) nuclear magnetic resonance showed different polymerization pathways of the resin into the usually used differential scanning calorimetry pressure resistant crucibles and under atmospheric pressure. Under high pressure conditions a competition between oxidation and polymerization reactions was detected, leading to less methylene bridge formation and more remaining free ortho -positions, with a consequent lower degree of polymerization.
Analysis of Recoil Compressive Failure in High Performance Polymers Using Two and Four Parameter Weibull Models
Authors: Newell James A. , Kurzeja Tom , Spence Meghan , Lynch Michael
Published: July 2017

In this study, large amounts of recoil compressive failure data were gathered for Kevlar-29 fibers. Once the dependence of failure frequency on stress level had been determined experimentally, two-parameter and four-parameter Weibull models were used to represent the data. An analysis of these results shows that each model represents the failure well, but that the four-parameter model offers little improvement over the two-parameter Weibull model. Deconstruction of the four-parameter model indicated that a single failure mechanism dominated and that this mechanism could be well represented by the two-parameter Weibull model. These results imply that while recoil compressive failure is more complicated than tensile failure, recoil failure is dominated by a single flaw distribution and can be represented by a more simple model than tensile failure.
Fiber-matrix Adhesion of Hydroperoxidized and Corona Discharge Treated Ultra-high Modulus Polyethylene
Authors: George G. A. , Willis H. A.
Published: July 2017

Controlled hydroperoxidation of commercial ultra-high modulus polyethylene (UHMPE) fibers has been used to provide grafting sites for the styrene crosslinking reaction of an unsaturated polyester resin. This has provided a covalent bond between the reinforcing fiber and matrix of the composite material so maximizing the interfacial adhesion. By using chemiluminescence and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to determine the nature of the oxidized surface of UHMPE, the treatment was optimized for hydroperoxide formation. This yielded the highest fiber-resin bond as determined by yarn pullout force. Commercial corona discharge treatment resulted in a lower bond strength which was attributed to a weak outer layer of highly oxidized material. This produced fiber slippage as indicated by scanning electron microscopy, in contrast to matrix cracking and interior shear of the fiber on pullout of the hydroperoxidized material.
NAM — A Beacon Light for the Third World Today
Authors: Srivastava Monika
Published: July 2017

For observers of international relations, the collapse of Berlin Wall, which led to the disintegration of Soviet Union and consequently the end of the cold war, heralded the ‘nirvana’ for the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). With the world turning unipolar (at least in the military sphere), the very name, they contend, is a contradiction in terms. Moreover, the three principles on which NAM was founded, viz. disarmament, development and autonomy in decision making, seem to have virtually collapsed. This camp also feels that in the present age of liberalisation globalisation and privatisation (LPG), the state of world is akin to a melting pot. Hence simplistic alliances, based on outdated concepts are redundant. Last but not the least, they allege that NAM members have displayed a lack of unity many a time. They have broken ranks in order to curry favours with the West. In sum, it has almost become a ‘fossil without fuel’. Hence, it should be consigned to the dustbin of history.

However, the writer feels that, NAM as a movement as well as a foreign policy goal is alive and kicking. In this age of geo-economics, NAM continues to have its raison d'etre. It could play a pivotal role in pursuing the economic agenda of third world countries for a more equitable economic world order. Furthermore, in this Hobbesian world characterised by anarchy, it could act as a lynchpin to address issues of contemporary relevance like US' attempt to create a unipolar world, ‘global commons’, micro-security issues like ‘FUNTERNARSA’ factor, ‘neo-interventionism’, cultural imperialism, restructuring the UN, etc. NAM as a foreign policy goal of pursuing enlightened national interest, especially ‘freedom of thought and autonomy of action’ could not have been more relevant in a world order, bedevilled by US unilateralism today.
Indonesia: Vulnerabilities and Strengths of a Regional Power
Authors: Jha Pankaj
Published: July 2017

Indonesia has slowly evolved as a nation which though afflicted by the internal differences and problems since independence. Also in the recent past it transformed itself into a democracy in 2004 and also managed to survive the financial crisis of 1997. Though many commentators and social scientists have lamented on the fact that there are too many conflict areas in Indonesia to let it emerge from the financial crisis. But the times have changed and now even the superpowers are trying to be at ‘good terms’ with a culturally diversified country like Indonesia. Indonesia has in the recent times has managed to overcome the decades long problems like Aceh and has started to become a major player in the politics of southeast Asia. The importance of Indonesia also gained ground after few of its terror groups were countered and subdued by the active government intervention and the help of religio∗∗∗us leaders in containing terrorism in the country. This is not to undermine the fact that there are still few grey areas where concern and consideration is required like Poso, Ambon and the security architecture of the region which has always shown apprehensions about the rise of the China in the region and the slow yet subtle demise of US presence in the region. The coordinates are more pronounced and the role of emerging countries like Indonesia becomes an important element for understanding the evolving security dynamics of the region. The paper would discuss the variables and also the factors which might create a comprehensive security architecture for the region in general and Indonesia in particular, though there are still quite a number of hot-spots in the region which might create a regional imbalance.
Developing Countries: Threats to Their Security
Authors: Rao R. Rama
Published: July 2017

Most developing countries in Asia, Africa and the Caribbean were, until recently, colonies of one or other Western power. The nations of Central and South America too were under the colonial rule of Spain and Portugal. But these Western powers had to vacate their Latin American colonies partly because of pressures by United States and partly because of indigenous freedom movements. In contrast, Asian and African people enslaved by European powers regained their freedom only when the latter had to retreat to their home countries after the Second World War. The United States had then also played its part in facilitating this retreat by Western powers. Colonial rule extending over centuries had effectively reduced the local inhabitants of colonial Asia and Africa to the status of serfs in their own countries impoverishing them and stifling their initiative. This was inevitable considering that the objectives of colonial rulers were to exploit the natural resources of their colonies and utilise the latter's geo-strategic locations to serve their own imperial interests.
Sanctions against South Africa: Some Issues and Implications
Authors: Gupta Anirudha
Published: July 2017

Two diametrically opposite views hare been advanced on the subject of sanctions against South Africa. One supports sanctions on the ground that, 1. sanctions will facilitate the end of apartheid and 2. timely imposition of sanctions can avoid an all-out racial blood-bath in Southern Africa. India's Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi has been the foremost advocate of this argument. In his address at the Harare Summit of the Non-aligned Movement, 2–6 September 1986, he reiterated that‘sanctions could yet bring a relatively peaceful transition to racial equality and majority rule. Else, unprecedented violence would mow down a multitude of the finest flowers of South Africa.‘1 Opposing this view others argue that, 1. sanctions are immoral; 2. they will hurt South Africa's blacks more than the whites and 3. that at any rate sanctions are impracticable. The champ ionof this “no-sanction-business” is Britain's Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, who observed towards the close of the Commonwealth Meeting that sanctions would only harm the blacks and frontline states and so she would not like to be accused of causing‘greater hardship to the people of South Africa.’2 Mrs Thatcher also warned that imposition of sanctions would hurt the British economy as well as render some 250,000 British workers jobless. In addition to giving a new angle to the sanction debate, she obviously picked up this theme to impress the British voters.
Constitutional Changes in Bangladesh: Process of Political Development
Authors: Ghosh Shyamali
Published: July 2017

The Peoples' Republic of Bangladesh initially adopted a constitution in 1972 that sought to direct the state power to develop ways and means for the society's transition to a socialistic economic order through a secular parliamentary democracy.1 Today, through constitutional changes, Bangladesh is neither a parliamentary democracy, nor does it follow a path to a socialistic economy. Secularism also is no longer a constitutional dictum.2 These clearly indicate changes in the fundamentals of the Constitution (1972), and such changes, wheneuer they occur, require probing in terms of the basis, the process and method of constitution making, constitution-amending and the legitimacy of these processes. The following analysis attempts to explore the Bangladesh case.3
Gorbachev Visit: A Historical Perspective
Authors: Parasher S. C.
Published: July 2017

The greatest victory is one in which nobody is defeated and all can share in the victory.

Lord Buddba
Conflict and Unity: Towards an Intellectual History of The Forbears of The OAU
Authors: Djaksam Themon
Published: July 2017

Institutions such as the Organization of African Unity (OAU) do not spring up all of a sudden from the blue.… More often than not, such institutions come into being because they answer, in a given historical period and context, the special need of a society or of an international community. For such institutions to be permanent — permanent in the sense that they contain the seeds for self-sustained growth — they must answer a widely and deeply felt genuine need. Diallo Telli, “The Organisation of African Unity in Historical Perspective” in African Forum; A quarterly Journal of Contemporary Affairs, The American Society of African Culture (New York), Vol. 1, no. 2, 1965, p. 7.

This article looks at the OAU from an historical and philosophical perspective. It, thereby aims at revealing the processes and dynamic nature of the forces which led to the emergence of the continental organization in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in 1963. It is not the purpose of the following analysis to offer a mere exposition or chronology of the events and developments which led up to the creation of the OAU. It aims to convey the idea of the potential for conflict inherent in the build-up to the OAU, and the intellectual manifestations of such conflict, especially in the context of the overall pre-OAU period. A convenient starting point for this analysis is the concept of Pan-Africanism.
From the Editor
Authors: Johnsen Susan
Published: July 2017

When the kindergarten teacher preassessed Katy in math, she understood most concepts at the 3rd-grade level. Similarly advanced, Robert was already reading chapter books. The parents were not enthusiastic about moving them to another grade level. How might this kindergarten teacher differentiate for these students?

In a recent report, A Nation Deceived: How Schools Hold Back America's Brightest Students (Colangelo, Assouline, Gross, 2004), Southern and Jones identified 18 different types of acceleration. While the majority of these require administrative or programmatic changes such as early admission to kindergarten, telescoping, grade skipping, concurrent/dual enrollment, advanced placement, and subject-matter acceleration, at least three allow a student to accelerate within a classroom and remain with same-age peers: continuous progress, self-paced instruction, and curriculum compacting.

With continuous progress, students progressively learn new concepts following their mastery of previous concepts. For example, in Katy's case, she would begin learning the math concepts at the 3rd-grade level and progress to the 4th-grade level as she masters the previous concepts. These advanced math concepts could be learned within her normal classroom setting.
Using Movies to Guide: Teachers and Counselors Collaborating to Support Gifted Students
Authors: Hébert Thomas P. , Sergent Daniel
Published: July 2017

The field of school counseling is rapidly changing. The counseling framework established in the 1990s focused on programs that were developmental, comprehensive, and collaborative (Paisley & Borders, 1995). At that time, the focus was on defining what school counselors do and should be doing on the job. Although the field of school counseling continues to define appropriate roles in the schools, the focus is shifting from what counselors do to what counselors do for children, and specifically, for children's academic success (Bowers & Hatch, 2002). The shift in the forefront of current trends does not negate past discussions. In fact, the need to clearly define developmental counseling and apply the concept appropriately in schools continues to be an issue with current counseling programs (Paisley & McMahon, 2001). With increased attention to the academic success of students, implementing quality school counseling programs that address the developmental needs of all students is more important than ever.
The Personality of Plagiarism
Authors: Lewis Norman P. , Zhong Bu
Published: July 2017

Contrary to the water-cooler hypothesis of educators, journalism and mass communication students who plagiarize do not differ from their non-copying peers in the “Big Five” personality traits (study 1, n = 908). However, the two groups differ in a scale that measures integrity on a continuum between principles and expediency (study 2, n = 483). They also differ when asked to evaluate types of copy-and-paste Internet plagiarism. JMC majors do not differ from those in other disciplines in their propensity to commit plagiarism. The two studies show students consider plagiarism a relative offense and offer suggestions for educators trying to reduce its prevalence.
Carbohydrate Homeostasis and Hormone Replacement Therapy
Authors: Andersson Bjorn , Mattsson Lars-Ake
Published: July 2017

It seems that in both diabetic and non-diabetic postmenopausal women unopposed oestradiol replacement therapy is followed by an improvement in glucose homeostasis and a slight improvement or a neutral effect on insulin sensitivity. When progestogens are added, the beneficial oestrogen-induced effect on glucose metabolism is impaired or at least neutralised (partly dependent on the choice of progestogen). This also applies to the oestrogen effect on insulin sensitivity. An ideal progestogen should not abolish the positive effects on glucose metabolism by oestrogens and simultaneously decrease triglyceride levels in women with type 2 diabetes.
Quantitative Ultrasound or Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry: The Best Tool for the Assessment of Osteoporosis?
Authors: Stewart Alison , Reid David M
Published: July 2017

Bone mass assessment has become an essential tool for assessing osteoporosis. Ideally, measurements could be used to diagnose osteoporosis, measure risk of future fracture and assess response to therapeutic intervention. This article considers how well quantitative ultrasound matches up to these requirements in comparison with spine and hip bone density measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). We conclude that diagnosing osteoporosis should be by DXA, preferably at the hip; risk assessment can be done by both techniques but monitoring therapy is probably best achieved by axial DXA.
The Effect of the Menopause on Women at Risk of Heart Disease
Authors: Rosano Giuseppe MC , Cerquetani Elena , Volpe Massimo
Published: July 2017

Coronary heart disease presents clinically as angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, cardiac failure, arrhythmias or sudden death. The menopause adversely affects coronary artery disease progression because of the negative influence of oestrogen deficiency on the risk factors involved. The effects of the menopause on the risk factors for coronary heart disease such as insulin resistance, serum lipids, blood pressure, haemostasis and body fat distribution will be examined. Presentation and management of chest pain in women are discussed. Gender differences, incidence, clinical course and management of arrhythmias are reviewed.
The Effect of Longevity on the Female Pelvic Floor
Authors: O'Sullivan Suzanne , Keane Declan
Published: July 2017

The pelvic floor is a muscular structure, pierced by the urethra, vagina and rectum. Upright posture has played a key role in its evolution. Oestrogen and progesterone receptors are present throughout the pelvic floor. Pelvic floor dysfunction is extremely common affecting at least one third of women during their lifetime. The major aetiological factor in pelvic floor dysfunction is vaginal delivery, but conditions associated with increased intra-abdominal pressure, obesity, smoking, pelvic surgery and high impact exercise are also involved. Oestrogen lack has marked effects on the urethra and anal sphincter. Normal function can thus be replaced by dysfunctions of several kinds of which urinary and anal incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse will be discussed.
Pregnancy in the Older Woman
Authors: Nugent David , Balen Adam
Published: July 2017

In industrialised countries worldwide women are delaying childbearing. In fertility and maternity terms, those women aged 35 years and older are considered to be of an advanced age. By this time there are usually dramatic reductions in both the fecundity rates for spontaneous conception and the success rates with assisted conception. These declines are thought to be mainly due to oocyte ageing and the established success of oocyte donation from younger individuals to older recipients supports this. Of those who conceive at an advanced maternal age there is a higher likelihood of aneuploidy (assuming conception with their own oocytes), hypertensive and other medical disorders, Caesarean birth and maternal mortality. However, most of the complications arising with advanced maternal age are caused by age-related confounding variables and older premenopausal women in good health do not require special attention. The data on perinatal mortality rates are encouraging and in the absence of congenital abnormalities are probably not much increased, if at all, in older mothers. For postmenopausal women pregnancy is now possible with oocyte donation. However, these individuals have a significantly higher likelihood of cardiovascular ageing and should be considered at increased risk of vascular complications during pregnancy.
Out-of plane Behaviour of I-Section Beam-columns with Slender Web
Authors: Yang Y.H. , Chen S.F.
Published: July 2017

This article, being a companion paper of Gu and Chen (1997), concerns the out-of-plane behavior (lateral-torsional buckling) of welded I-section beam-columns with slender web. Theoretical and experimental studies show that relaxing the strict limit of web slenderness in traditional I-section beam-column design is possible and efficient. Web buckling/deflection does not seriously reduce the out-of-plane bearing capacity of such beam-columns. Design formulas are proposed for practical application to members with web slenderness 60 to 120.
Service-load Behaviour of Braced Reinforced Concrete Columns with Rotational Spring Supports
Authors: Bradford M.A.
Published: July 2017

A simplified mathematical model for the short-term and time dependent analysis of reinforced concrete columns subjected to eccentric loading and with rotational springs is developed. Such a column is typical of that in a sway-prevented frame. The analysis includes cracking at service loads, creep and shrinkage deformations, and second order slenderness effects. The second order deflections are compared with those predicted by use of the contentious effective length factor given in design codes of practice.
Simplified Modeling and Analysis of Pattern Loading Effects on Shoring Systems During Construction
Authors: Peng J.L. , Rosowsky D.V. , Pan A.D. , Chen W.F. , Chan S.L.
Published: July 2017

This paper examines the effect of concrete placement patterns on temporary structures. Specific consideration is given to scaffold shoring systems used in construction. A simplified two-dimensional portal frame model is developed to investigate the system stability for different load patterns corresponding to different concrete placement procedures. Then, a three-dimensional structural model is developed to identify the location and magnitude of the critical formwork load both during and after concrete placement. A second-order elastic analysis of the system is performed to determine the critical loads. For the sway case, there exists a unique critical (collapse) load which is independent of load pattern (placement paths) and partial loads. However, the amount of lateral deflection varies for different load patterns or paths. Thus, a single limiting lateral deflection of the temporary structure may not be suitable as an early-warning index signaling imminent collapse during construction. An analysis based on the concept of influence surfaces confirms that an equivalent uniform load may be used in design to account for pattern loading during construction.
A Hybrid Method for Estimating Modal Damping in Sag Cable with Oil Damper
Authors: Yu Z. , Xu Y.L. , Ko J.M.
Published: July 2017

A hybrid method, combining analytical formulation with numerical computation, is developed for estimating the modal damping in a sag cable with oil damper. The sag cable is such divided into a series of segments that the damper is located at a joint between two segments. An orthogonal transformation is performed to decouple the equations of motion and find local analytical solutions for each segment. Then, a transfer matrix procedure is employed to assemble these local solutions to form a system matrix. From the system matrix and the boundary conditions of the cable, the complex eigenvalues including the modal damping of the cable are finally numerically estimated. Using the hybrid method, an extensive parametric study is carried out to investigate the modal damping of the system with respect to cable sag, cable internal damping, damper direction, damper stiffness, and others. The results show that for a taut cable, the obtained curves for the modal damping are very much compatible with the previous results, but much less computation effort is required. It is also shown that the disparity of modal damping between the previous theoretical values and experimental results may be attributed to the ignorance of the frequency crossover of a sag cable, damper stiffness, or damper direction.
Performance Comparison of Passive Energy Dissipation Systems in Structural Applications – II: Nonlinear Reference System
Authors: Ou Jin-Ping , Wu Bo , Soong T.T.
Published: July 2017

In this paper, performance comparisons of representative passive energy dissipation devices when applied during the yielding phase of a structure are made. First, a single-degree-of-freedom nonlinear system is taken as the reference system and performance criteria are discussed according to its random response characteristics. Then, based on nonlinear random response analysis and equivalent stiffness and damping analogy, an equivalent linear model for the reference system without the energy dissipators and an equivalent unified model for the system with the dissipators are presented, by which the equivalent stiffness deterioration factor of the system with or without the energy dissipators and the dissipated hysteretic energy ratio of the dissipator to the reference system can be obtained. Finally, the performance criteria, including the reduction ratio of the controlled and uncontrolled displacement and absolute acceleration, the equivalent stiffness deterioration factor, and the dissipated hysteretic energy ratio are established for the reference system with the energy dissipators.
Experimental Study of Composite Space Trusses with Continuous Chords
Authors: El-Sheikh Ahmed , Shaaban Hesham
Published: July 2017

The last decade saw the emergence of a new type of space truss built with continuous chord members. Earlier studies on these trusses confirmed that besides the cost savings resulting from their simple jointing methods, their behaviour is sound and ductile. The present study investigates the possibility of using either a concrete slab or top timber boards acting compositely with the top chord, to improve the behaviour of these trusses. New techniques are developed to allow the easy and inexpensive attachment of both types of top continuum. With these techniques, a high level of shear interaction can be developed, leading to significant improvements in behaviour. The paper also introduces an analytical study based on the finite element method for the analysis of space trusses with continuous chords, both in the composite and non-composite states.
Practical Advanced Analysis for Seismic Frame Design
Authors: Chen I-Hong , Chen Wai-Fah
Published: July 2017

This paper presents the use of advanced analysis in the practical seismic design of steel frames. The proposed approaches to refine the elastic-plastic hinge method will be described. The LRFD-based static seismic design procedure for Special Moment Frames, utilizing advanced analysis, will be developed. A design example will be provided. The advanced analysis eliminates tedious member capacity checks and directly captures the overall system response, including the system overstrength factor, critical areas, and excessive deformation demands. Therefore, the proposed method provides a reliable and convenient alternative design procedure for the present static seismic design procedure.
Fatigue Behaviour of L-section Stiffener to Crossbeam Joints in Orthotropic Steel Bridge Decks
Authors: Tong Lewei , Shen Zuyan
Published: July 2017

The problem investigated in this paper mainly deals with the fatigue behaviour of L-section stiffener to crossbeam joints in orthotropic steel bridge decks. Static and fatigue tests were carried out on two panels composed of one deck plate, five L-section longitudinal stiffeners and two crossbeams. Eleven cracks were observed at the circular arc edges of cut-outs in the crossbeams, except for two cracks at the weld toes in the stiffener to deck plate joint. Stress state at two sides of cut-outs is duscussed. The calculated stresses from a finite element analysis agree well with these measured from the static test. The maximum principal stress ranges along circular arc edges are important factors influencing the fatigue behaviour of cut-outs. The S-N curve for their fatigue design is proposed using a regression analysis.
Free Vibration Analysis of Flexural-Shear Plates Under the Action of Axial Forces
Authors: Li Q.S.
Published: July 2017

The governing differential equations for vibration of flexural-shear plates considering the effects of flexural, shear deformation and axial forces are established. The general solutions of a one-step flexural-shear plate are derived and used to obtain the eigenvalue equations of a multi-step flexural-shear plate with various boundary conditions. The new exact approach which combines the transfer matrix method and closed form solutions of a uniform flexural-shear plate with various boundary conditions is presented. A numerical example demonstrates that the calculated natural frequencies and mode shapes of a tall building that is treated as a two-step flexural-shear plate are in good agreement with the experimentally measured data. It is also shown that the effect of shear deformation on the fundamental natural frequency can be ignored, but its effect on the higher natural frequencies should be considered. On the contrary, the effect of axial force (N) on the higher natural frequencies is not significant, and its effect on the fundamental natural frequency is dependent on the ratio of N to the critical buckling force Nc.
PBI (Polybenzimidazole): Synthesis, Properties and Applications
Authors: Sandor R.B.
Published: July 2017

PBI (polybenzimidazole) is a thermally stable high performace polymer. In a variety of forms, e.g. fibers, neat resin and composites, PBI finds use in a wide range of high temperature applications. The synthesis of PBI, and properties, and applications of fiber and molded resin are discussed. Also included are recent developments in composite fabrication technology and PBI composite applications in carbonlcarbon composites.
Recent Developments In Fluoro-containing Polyamideimides
Authors: Chen P. , Glick M. , Vora R.H. , Cooper W. , Jaffe M.
Published: July 2017

The synthesis, characterization and development of a new generation of fluoro-containing polyamideimide (PAI) polymers are described in this paper. The polymers are generally prepared by forming the polycondensation product of an aromatic diamine, a trifunctional aromatic anhydride acid chloride and an aromatic dianhydride containing trifluoromethyl moieties. These new materials possess high glass transition temperatures, useful mechanical properties and outstanding thermoplastic flow behavior which render them readily melt processable into fibers, films, sheets and other molded articles. The as-precipitated fluoro-containing PAI materials are soluble in many organic solvents and are thus amenable to solution casting techniques. They also show excellent resistance towards thermooxidative degradation at temperatures to 450°F and have low moisture uptake. In addition, compatible blends with polybenzimidazole (PBI) resin have yield synergistic effects on the mechanical properties of the resulting polymer.
Student Research: A Perspective from Old Dominion University
Authors: Guerette Paula J.
Published: July 2017

The process of completing a major research effort such as a thesis or dissertation requires the consideration and successful coordination of many details. The present paper addresses the may in which two major factors — selection/design of a research project and acquisition of funding — were resolved in the present research effort.
Application of a Cost-Benefit Model to the Evaluation of a Military Training Management Information System
Authors: Sanquist Thomas F. , McCallum Marvin C.
Published: July 2017

A method to facilitate the comparative evaluation of automated systems based on quantitative predictions and measurements of system impacts is described. A model of the costs and benefits resulting from the automation of U.S. Army training management activities was developed on the basis of work function taxonomy measures. Data were collected from a sample of 66 personnel in the 9th Infantry Division to determine the time spent on different job tasks and work functions. The savings that could be obtained through automation were estimated by applying workload reduction factors to the task and work function time estimates. The estimates were extrapolated to the entire Army to determine the impact of a fully fielded system. The results indicate that the Army currently spends 8208 person-years on training management at a cost of $348 million. Automation could potentially reduce these costs to 5683 person-years at a cost of $227 million. The potential savings of $121 million represent resources that are currently consumed by inefficient procedures. This methodology is useful for generating quantitative predictions of automation impact for verification in comparative evaluations.
The Role of Screening Studies in Sequential Research Designs
Authors: Beaudet Douglas B. , Williges Robert C.
Published: July 2017

A screening study is an economical method for analyzing a large number of independent variables using a relatively small number of data points. The role of screening studies in sequential research designs is discussed and demonstrated. The methodology for selecting variables, choosing an experimental design, and collecting data is presented by reviewing the results of a recent study. The screening study was conducted using a Hadamard matrix to investigate the effects of 16 variables on a telephone information system which uses synthetic speech as the display modality. Only 32 data points were required to evaluate 16 factors in the screening study. The results of this study are discussed in terms of strategies to conduct efficient sequential research in human factors.
Application of Automatic/Controlled Processing Theory to Training Tactical Command and Control Skills: 1. Background and Task Analytic Methodology
Authors: Fisk Arthur D. , Eggemeier F. Thomas
Published: July 2017

In this paper we briefly highlight relevant laboratory research that provided the theoretical and empirical underpinnings for the development of a task-analytic training methodology. The actual task-analytic methodology, developed to decompose tasks performed to support tactical command and control (C2), air-weapons controller missions, is briefly discussed. The present paper provides the necessary background for the actual application of the methodology. The details of the direct application are presented in a companion paper by Eggemeier, Fisk, Robbins, and Lawless (1988).
Simulator Evaluation of Instructional and Design Features for Training Helicopter Shipboard Landing
Authors: Sheppard Daniel J. , Jones Sherrie A. , Westra Daniel P. , Madden Joyce J.
Published: July 2017

The effects of four instructional issues and one simulator design feature for training helicopter shipboard landing on small ships were tested in the Vertical Take-off and Landing Simulator (VTOL) at the Visual Technology Research Simulator (VTRS), Naval Training Systems Center. They were: (1) field of view (VTRS versus a test field of view), (2) task chaining (segmented backward chaining versus whole task training), (3) augmented cueing (augmented cueing versus no augmented cueing), (4) length of training (18, 27, and 36 trials), and (5) the timing of seastate introduction (early versus late). The experiment utilized an in-simulator transfer-of-training paradigm in which pilots who were not proficient in the helicopter shipboard landing task were trained under one of several experimental conditions, then tested on the transfer condition (that represented maximum realism) in the simulator. Thirty-two pilots each completed a total of 54 trials (36 training, 18 transfer). Pilots were tested in the transfer condition (six trials) after their 18th, 27th, and 36th training trial. Of the experimental instructional issues, task chaining had the largest effect, with better performance in all segments of the task for pilots who were trained with the backward-chaining sequence, than for pilots who received whole task training. Augmented cueing did not yield the transfer performance anticipated. Seastate introduction had no effect on performance. Field of view had some marginal effects on vertical performance in the hover, with better performance for pilots who were trained with the combination VTRS field-of-view and backward-chaining. Results suggest a diminished rate of learning after 33 simulator trials (includes 27 training trials and six transfer trials of the first probe).
Fidelity of Task Structure as a Guiding Principle in the Development of Skill Trainers Based upon Complex Computer Games
Authors: Gopher Daniel , Weil Maya , Bareket Tal , Caspi Sigal
Published: July 2017

Fidelity of task structure is proposed to replace physical fidelity, as a cost effective guiding principle in the development of trainers for complex tasks. The paper describes a research project in which a complex computer game was designed to mimic the requirements of flight skill. It was then employed as part trainer within an actual flight training program. The game was mainly directed to teach subjects strategies of attention control and efficient allocation of processing resources. It was found to improve trainees performance in flight. The paper discusses the theoretical roots of the proposed approach and some results of its application in an actual training environment.
Conceptual Graphs as Instructional Tools
Authors: Moore Jana L. , Gordon Sallie E.
Published: July 2017

Conceptual graphs are a method of diagraming knowledge structures. They are valuable in a variety of applications including design of instructional materials, student evaluation and diagnosis, and theoretical research. One problem has been the identification of methods for eliciting or measuring the “internal” knowledge structures to develop conceptual graphs.

Several methods of mapping conceptual graphs have been used in various research domains (e.g., free recall, sorting, ordering, etc.). Most of these traditional methods suffer from serious drawbacks. To overcome these problems, a question probe method has been adapted from work done in the area of prose comprehension. The question probe technique is a method for systematically developing a set of “test questions”. The method allows for the direct development of conceptual graphs and quantitative comparison of the graphs.

The question probe technique has been successfully used to systematically develop instructional materials, evaluate/diagnose student understanding of course material, evaluate alternative instructional methods, and assess the relationship between instruction and problem solving performance.
Effect of Three-Dimensional Object Type and Density in Simulated Low-Level Flight
Authors: Kleiss James A. , Curry David G. , Hubbard David C.
Published: July 2017

Three-dimensional objects placed on simulated terrain surfaces are particularly effective as cues for altitude in simulated low-level flight. To conserve the limited edge processing capacity of computer image generators (CIGs), objects have typically been simple in shape and therefore fairly abstract in appearance. The present investigation sought to determine whether the apparent size of more detailed and familiar appearing objects (e.g., trees and bushes) serves as an additional cue for altitude in simulated low-level flight. Results showed no differences in performance between abstract objects and familiar objects. However, performance did improve with increases in object density, at least for some performance measures. These results suggest that CIG processing capacity may be most effectively utilized by increasing object density rather than individual object detail.
A Pilot Study of the In-Vehicle Safety Advisory and Warning System (IVSAWS) Driver-Alert Warning System Design
Authors: Erlichman Jason
Published: July 2017

This pilot study was conducted to obtain preliminary information regarding alternative signalling presentations and symbologies for the Driver-Alert Warning System design within the In-Vehicle Safety Advisory and Warning System Program sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration. Preliminary analysis had been conducted by both Hughes Aircraft Company and The University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute. The pilot study concentrated of the driver attributes of understanding, relative effectiveness and signalling format. Thirteen subjects were exposed to the new pictograms prototyped on a Macintosh computer and were requested to verbalize their understanding and preferences in regard to varying signalling characteristics. These characteristics included, a) monochrome, b) color, c) blink, d) tone, e) text message and f) voice message. The results indicated that, as a group, the combination of color, audio tone, text and voice message was the preferred signalling presentation. Gender differences were noted with the female subjects indicating a preference for the combination that included color and blink. All pictograms were recognizable by the subjects and all subjects agreed that IVSAWS would be a substantial aid to the driver.
Integrated Workstations for the Instruction of Job Design and Evaluation
Authors: Freivalds Andris , Goldberg Joseph H.
Published: July 2017

There are pressing needs to enhance the quality of undergraduate engineering instruction, including human factors engineering. Specific curricular and philosophical issues include: 1) Integration of Work Measurement and Human Factors, 2) Applications driven laboratories, 3) Open-ended problems, 4) Compartmentalization of knowledge, 5) White-collar work. In summary, the end goals of this laboratory development are innovative job design and evaluation workstations, which can provide students with real-world, open-ended problems.

Two different workstations are proposed: a workstation appropriate for typical blue-collar assembly work and a workstation appropriate for white-collar computer driven work. The white-collar workstation will simulate modern-computer driven office jobs, and the common factors influencing their productivity, such as speed, accuracy, noise, illumination, etc. The blue-collar workstation would be centered around a typical assembly process found in the U.S. automotive industry. Specifically, carburetor assembly will be utilized because of the large number of fairly intricate parts, the highly repetitive and rapid assembly process, and the need for power driven tools. These also happen to be the prime factors that are thought to increase the incidence of cumulative trauma disorders in U.S. industry. The students will examine tool parameters, and be able to adjust the support of the tool with tool balancers, cut the detrimental impact of power tools on the hand, using the reaction torque bars and implement novel approaches, such as arm rests or arm slings as used in Sweden.
Introductory Human Factors Engineering Courses: What is Currently Taught
Authors: Ellis R. Darin , Goldberg Joseph H.
Published: July 2017

Course syllabi were requested from 43 U.S. undergraduate engineering programs to assess the structure and content of introductory Human Factors Engineering courses. Such information is valuable for new faculty and those who want to redesign their courses. Educators in industry also must constantly evaluate their courses to ensure their material is current. Syllabi were received from 27 of the programs. Factors considered were textbooks, credits, ABET credit categories, grading, and TA usage. Course topics were analyzed by frequency of appearance across the courses. The most popular topics were vision and hearing-related, displays, anthropometry, and workspace evaluation and design. Less popular topics, included liability, technical writing, shiftwork, and occupational stress.
Increasing the Breadth of the Human Factors Scientist-Practitioner
Authors: Braun Curt C.
Published: July 2017

It has been 40 years since the Department of Defense first commissioned the development of the Human Engineering Guide to Equipment Design. In this, the 40th anniversary year, it is fitting to examine the training of human factors purveyors and provide suggestions for supplemental training where little formal training exists. Review of current human factors education programs reveals that many of the published guidelines are, to a greater degree, being fulfilled. These findings should be encouraging, yet human factors educators, students, and practitioners alike are hesitant to conclude that psychologists or human factors specialists are necessarily complete upon attaining these skills. Many newly graduated human factors practitioners, while competent in human processes, do not possess the skills and background necessary to perform in a variety of domains. The goal of this symposium is to address the issues of human factors training by providing curriculum material designed to build upon fundamental skills.
User Assessments of Selected Lecture Halls and the Relative Merits of Architectural Standards and Ergonomic Guidelines
Authors: McVey G. F. , Bethune James D.
Published: July 2017

In two studies spanning approximately twenty years, two investigators employed a nearly identical user assessment instrument (questionnaire) in the evaluation of college lecture halls. The results of both of these studies, although performed approximately twenty years apart, indicate the firm and continuing existence of a strong and statistically significant student preference for lecture halls designed and constructed in accordance with ergonomic guidelines, in addition to standard architectural practices and prevailing building codes, over those designed and constructed in accordance with the architectural standards and prevailing building codes but without observance of ergonomic guidelines. In both studies, an analysis of individual item responses against the physical characteristics of each lecture hall revealed the specific environmental and display system features preferred by the students. Consequently, it is recommended that now and in the future, facility planners and architects make every effort to utilize existing ergonomic guidelines and standards in their educational facility design, construction and remodeling efforts.