bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constellations, Polysemy, and Hindi -ko
Authors: Vasishth Shravan , Joseph Brian
Published: August 2016

Much of linguistic analysis rests on a single key question: given entities X and Y as objects for analysis, are they the same or different? This issue pervades all components of grammar: phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, etc. Moreover, in addressing this issue, one often needs to recognize the relevance of different levels of analysis, especially underlying versus surface, since underlying sameness can be surface difference, and vice versa. For example, phonemic analysis takes phones with decidedly different phonetic realizations (e.g. aspirated vs. unaspirated stops in English) and treats them as the same at the phonemic level if their distribution does not overlap. But at the same time, segments that seem to be the same phonetically on the surface and even phonemically as well, e.g. the [d] of recede and the [d] of invade, might need to be treated as different from a morphophonemic standpoint, since, in this example, the former alternates with [s] in the related noun recession whereas the latter alternates with [z] in invasion, both nominal formations having ostensibly the same suffix. In syntax, too, patterns that are alike on the surface, such as control constructions and raising constructions, can show some unlike properties that lead, in most current theoretical frameworks at least, to structural differentiation in some way, e.g., in underlying structure. An answer to the above key question regarding sameness often involves a recognition of differences too. Thus, the issue becomes one of measuring similarities and differences against one another and weighing the relative importance of one or the other, as well as deciding how to represent the sameness or difference that one ends up positing.
Sentential Negation and Verb Movement in Bantu Languages
Authors: Ngonyani Deo
Published: August 2016

This paper explores a well-known asymmetry between negation marking main clauses and subordinate clauses in Bantu languages (Gilldemann 1999:551, Meeussen 1967:114). It is noted that pre-initial negation marking is usually restricted to main clauses, while post-initial marking is rarely restricted. Various studies have explored the diachronic origins of the various strategies. This paper focuses on how the strategies are constrained by clause structure. It is argued that negation projects a NegP as an element of Infl. Asymmetrical negation marking is due to two NegPs, one selecting TP, and the other selected by TP.
Time Course of the First Formant Bandwidth
Authors: Park Hansang
Published: August 2016

Phonetic characteristics of modal or non-modal voice qualities, such as open quotient, spectral tilt, the first formant bandwidth, and the degree of noise, have been measured in terms of the relative amplitude difference between the first two harmonics, the relative amplitude difference between the first harmonic and formant peaks, the first formant bandwidth, and harmonic-to-noise ratio, or subjective noise ratings. It was observed that one of the characteristics of breathy voice is an increased first formant bandwidth (Klatt & Klatt 1990) and that breathiness varies over time within a vowel (Silverman et al. 1995). It is predicted from these observations that the first formant bandwidth varies over time as well as across phonation types. This paper investigates the time course of the first formant bandwidth of the vowel /a/ in tokens of type /Ca/ and /NCa/, where C is 8 Korean coronal obstruents to see the behavior of the first formant bandwidth in those contexts.
Debunking 'Discourse Topic': Ideational Momentum and the Unpredictable Trajectory of Conversation
Authors: Park-Doob Mischa
Published: August 2016

There is a long-standing notion that in most instances of language use, the participants (whether speaking or writing) organize their production into coherent stretches identifiable as 'topics'. There is the further notion that these topics have easily definable beginnings and ends, allowing them to be labeled and strung together into a list or hierarchy which forms a useful schematic of what occurred during a given stretch of discourse.
Diachronic Aspects of Preferred Argument Structure in English and Broader Implications
Authors: Shibasaki Reijirou
Published: August 2016

Building on speculations from preceding studies, this study aims to determine whether Preferred Argument Structure (PAS, Du Bois 1987) holds for early stages of English. As Ashby & Bentivoglio (to appear) concede in their concluding remarks, a simple comparison of PAS, in Old French and Modem French for example, is not sufficient for uncovering and understanding the nature of PAS. Therefore, this study aims to show the gradual transition of PAS in the history of English.
Discourse-Related Effects on Speech Durations: A Challenge for Models of Speech Production
Authors: Smith Caroline L.
Published: August 2016

With topic labeling providing an analysis of the text's organization, the experiment reported here investigated the relation between the structure of the text and the durational patterns produced when it was read aloud. Durations were chosen for study in part because much previous work has concentrated on F0. In addition, acoustic durations in English are known to be affected by segment identity and local context in a way that F0 is not, so it is interesting to see whether, like F0, durations are also affected by the overall organization of the discourse. The present paper focuses on the interactions between discourse organization and durations, and how these may reveal drawbacks in current models of speech production.
Syntactic Projectability and Co-Participant Completion in Japanese Conversation
Authors: Szatrowski Polly
Published: August 2016

In this paper, I investigate the role of syntax in projecting possible ends of utterances. Research on tum-taking and co-participant completion has concluded that co-participants use many concomitant features of talk-in-interaction in addition to grammatical structure to project the ends of utterances. My purpose is not to refute the contribution of these concomitant features, but rather to refine further the role of grammatical structure in syntactic projectability.
Against Richness of the Base: Evidence from Nganasan
Authors: Vaysman Olga
Published: August 2016

Since Optimality Theory is a highly output-oriented grammatical theory, the strongest hypothesis is that all systematic, language-particular patterns are the result of output constraints, and that there is no other place from which such patterns can derive. In particular, input is not a level of derivation that can be constrained. This principle is known as Richness of the Base hypothesis, and it states that there are no constraints on the input structure of words, and that all linguistic constraints are statements on the surface structure only. In other words, Richness of the Base attributes all systematic phonological patterns to constraint rankings, not to difference in inputs. In this paper, I consider some consonant gradation facts from a Uralic Samoyedic language Nganasan, and argue that (at least the strict interpretation of) the Richness of the Base hypothesis runs into problems when we deal with full range of relevant data from this language, namely isolated words, compounds, and borrowings.
Phonetics in the Field
Authors: Maddieson Ian
Published: August 2016

it seems generally the case that little detail on specifically phonetic matters is provided in a typical grammar, nor is there much use of phonetic techniques to provide insights on other matters, such as adding precision to observations of phonological alternations or testing whether supposed syntactic ambiguities are actually disambiguated at the phonetic level. While syntactic patterns are documented with example sentences, often from natural discourse or texts, the phonetic facts are rarely if ever documented by the presentation of hard evidence. In order to see if this impression was justified a survey of twenty grammars published or submitted as doctoral dissertations in the period of a dozen years from 1989 to 2000 was conducted.
Dilemmas and Paradoxes in Linguistic Fieldwork
Authors: Rischel Jørgen
Published: August 2016

The retrieval of data was never an issue that loomed large in standard textbooks on linguistics. It remained rather peripheral, even to scholars with a long experience in approaching linguistic data. Introductory textbooks teaching morphological or syntactic analysis are often very bad in this respect: they tend to depict raw data as a set of carefully selected and flawlessly transcribed forms. Thus they create a dangerous illusion in the minds of students unless the teacher provides a counterbalance by explaining and demonstrating how crucially important it is for the whole field of linguistics how the raw material used as input was retrieved in the first place.
Before You Record Anything Else: Topics and Questions to Consider When You Interview a Speaker for the First Time
Authors: Wash Suzanne
Published: August 2016

In recent years there has been a renewed interest in field linguistics and language documentation. One reflection of this trend is the appearance of several relatively new books about doing linguistic fieldwork (e.g. Newman and Ratliff 2001, Vaux and Cooper 1999, Payne 1997). Yet, there remains one area of fieldwork methodology that is rarely dealt with in publications and linguistic field methods courses generally: how and why a linguist should gather information about the life history of the speaker, including, especially, information about the speaker's sociolinguistic background. Such information is critical for linguists investigating moribund languages, where it is not uncommon to find significant differences in the speech of speakers who belong to the same family, let alone the same speech community. The reasons behind such differences become clearer if the linguist first determines what sociolinguistic factors, in the speaker's personal history, have affected that speaker's knowledge and use of the language in question.
NEW LIMITS ON THERMALLY ANNIHILATING DARK MATTER FROM NEUTRINO TELESCOPES
Authors: Lopes J. , Lopes I.
Published: August 2016

We used a consistent and robust solar model to obtain upper limits placed by neutrino telescopes, such as IceCube and Super-Kamiokande, on the dark matter-nucleon scattering cross-section, for a general model of dark matter with a velocity dependent (p-wave) thermally averaged cross-section. In this picture, the Boltzmann equation for the dark matter abundance is numerically solved, satisfying the dark matter density measured from the cosmic microwave background. We show that for lower cross-sections and higher masses, the dark matter annihilation rate drops sharply, resulting in upper bounds on the scattering cross-section that are one order of magnitude above those derived from a velocity independent (s-wave) annihilation cross-section. Our results show that upper limits on the scattering cross-section obtained from dark matter annihilating in the Sun are sensible to the uncertainty in current standard solar models, fluctuating by a maximum of 20% depending on the annihilation channel.
SYNTHETIC HYDROGEN SPECTRA OF OSCILLATING PROMINENCE SLABS IMMERSED IN THE SOLAR CORONA
Authors: Zapiór M. , Oliver R. , Ballester J. L. , Heinzel P.
Published: August 2016

We study the behavior of Hα and Hβ spectral lines and their spectral indicators in an oscillating solar prominence slab surrounded by the solar corona, using an MHD model combined with a 1D radiative transfer code taken in the line of sight perpendicular to the slab. We calculate the time variation of the Doppler shift, half-width, and maximum intensity of the Hα and Hβ spectral lines for different modes of oscillation. We find a non-sinusoidal time dependence of some spectral parameters with time. Because Hα and Hβ spectral indicators have different behavior for different modes, caused by differing optical depths of formation and different plasma parameter variations in time and along the slab, they may be used for prominence seismology, especially to derive the internal velocity field in prominences.
COMPLEX HYDROCARBON CHEMISTRY IN INTERSTELLAR AND SOLAR SYSTEM ICES REVEALED: A COMBINED INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY AND REFLECTRON TIME-OF-FLIGHT MASS SPECTROMETRY ANALYSIS OF ETHANE (C2H6) AND D6-ETHANE (C2D6) ICES EXPOSED TO IONIZING RADIATION
Authors: Abplanalp Matthew J. , Kaiser Ralf I.
Published: August 2016

The irradiation of pure ethane (C2H6/C2D6) ices at 5.5 K, under ultrahigh vacuum conditions was conducted to investigate the formation of complex hydrocarbons via interaction with energetic electrons simulating the secondary electrons produced in the track of galactic cosmic rays. The chemical modifications of the ices were monitored in situ using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and during temperature-programmed desorption via mass spectrometry exploiting a quadrupole mass spectrometer with electron impact ionization (EI-QMS) as well as a reflectron time-of-flight mass spectrometer coupled to a photoionization source (PI-ReTOF-MS). FTIR confirmed previous ethane studies by detecting six molecules: methane (CH4), acetylene (C2H2), ethylene (C2H4), the ethyl radical (C2H5), 1-butene (C4H8), and n-butane (C4H10). However, the TPD phase, along with EI-QMS, and most importantly, PI-ReTOF-MS, revealed the formation of at least 23 hydrocarbons, many for the first time in ethane ice, which can be arranged in four groups with an increasing carbon-to-hydrogen ratio: C
n
H2n+2 (n = 3, 4, 6, 8, 10), C
n
H2n
(n = 3–10),

(n = 3–10), and

(n = 4–6). The processing of simple ethane ices is relevant to the hydrocarbon chemistry in the interstellar medium, as ethane has been shown to be a major product of methane, as well as in the outer solar system. These data reveal that the processing of ethane ices can synthesize several key hydrocarbons such as C3H4 and C4H6 isomers, which haÂ­ve been found to synthesize polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons like indene (C9H8) and naphthaÂ­lene (C10H8) in the ISM and in hydrocarbon-rich atmospheres of planets and their moons such as Titan.
THE ROLE OF COSMIC-RAY PRESSURE IN ACCELERATING GALACTIC OUTFLOWS
Authors: Simpson Christine M. , Pakmor Rüdiger , Marinacci Federico , Pfrommer Christoph , Springel Volker , Glover Simon C. O. , Clark Paul C. , Smith Rowan J.
Published: August 2016

We study the formation of galactic outflows from supernova (SN) explosions with the moving-mesh code AREPO in a stratified column of gas with a surface density similar to the Milky Way disk at the solar circle. We compare different simulation models for SN placement and energy feedback, including cosmic rays (CRs), and find that models that place SNe in dense gas and account for CR diffusion are able to drive outflows with similar mass loading as obtained from a random placement of SNe with no CRs. Despite this similarity, CR-driven outflows differ in several other key properties including their overall clumpiness and velocity. Moreover, the forces driving these outflows originate in different sources of pressure, with the CR diffusion model relying on non-thermal pressure gradients to create an outflow driven by internal pressure and the random-placement model depending on kinetic pressure gradients to propel a ballistic outflow. CRs therefore appear to be non-negligible physics in the formation of outflows from the interstellar medium.
QUASI-PERIODIC PULSATIONS DURING THE IMPULSIVE AND DECAY PHASES OF AN X-CLASS FLARE
Authors: Hayes L. A. , Gallagher P. T. , Dennis B. R. , Ireland J. , Inglis A. R. , Ryan D. F.
Published: August 2016

Quasi-periodic pulsations (QPPs) are often observed in X-ray emission from solar flares. To date, it is unclear what their physical origins are. Here, we present a multi-instrument investigation of the nature of QPP during the impulsive and decay phases of the X1.0 flare of 2013 October 28. We focus on the character of the fine structure pulsations evident in the soft X-ray (SXR) time derivatives and compare this variability with structure across multiple wavelengths including hard X-ray and microwave emission. We find that during the impulsive phase of the flare, high correlations between pulsations in the thermal and non-thermal emissions are seen. A characteristic timescale of ∼20 s is observed in all channels and a second timescale of ∼55 s is observed in the non-thermal emissions. SXR pulsations are seen to persist into the decay phase of this flare, up to 20 minutes after the non-thermal emission has ceased. We find that these decay phase thermal pulsations have very small amplitude and show an increase in characteristic timescale from ∼40 s up to ∼70 s. We interpret the bursty nature of the co-existing multi-wavelength QPPs during the impulsive phase in terms of episodic particle acceleration and plasma heating. The persistent thermal decay phase QPPs are most likely connected with compressive magnetohydrodynamic processes in the post-flare loops such as the fast sausage mode or the vertical kink mode.
Patients with Systemic Sclerosis/polymyositis Overlap Have a Worse Survival Rate Than Patients Without It
Authors: Bhansing Kavish J. , van Riel Piet L.C.M. , van Engelen Baziel G.M. , Fransen Jaap , Vonk Madelon C.
Published: August 2016

Objective.

Studies on mortality associated with patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and myopathy have been limited by heterogeneous definitions of muscle involvement. The objective of this study is to determine whether homogeneous-defined SSc/polymyositis overlap (SSc-PM overlap) is associated with a worse survival rate compared with SSc without PM.

Methods.

Data from the Nijmegen Systemic Sclerosis cohort were used. Incidence rates were calculated from the observed number of deaths and followup time. Survival analysis using Cox proportional hazard modeling was performed to compare survival among patients with SSc and patients with SSc-PM overlap, including controlling for confounders. All patients with SSc-PM fulfilled the Bohan and Peter criteria for PM.

Results.

There were 24 patients with SSc-PM (5.7%) and 396 patients with SSc (94.2%). The 5- and 10-year cumulative survival rates from diagnosis were 82% and 68% for the SSc-PM group and 93% and 87% for the SSc group, respectively. Multivariate survival analysis revealed an adjusted HR of 2.34 (95% CI 1.09–5.02) for SSc-PM compared with SSc, with age at diagnosis, modified Rodnan skin score, diffuse cutaneous subtype, and male sex included as confounders. The most common cause of death among patients with SSc-PM overlap was cardiopulmonary involvement (63%), which was similar to the patients with SSc (51%).

Conclusion.

Patients with SSc-PM overlap have a worse survival rate compared with patients with SSc.
Holographic Storage Properties of Photochemical SiO2-Nanoparticles Material for Visualization News Features
Authors: Feng Yan
Published: August 2016

The excellent photochemical properties of photopolymer material have made them become the hot spot of current for visualization news holographic storage. However, the shortcomings of common photopolymer materials such as exposure shrinkage and limited refractive index modulation affect the reading and writing properties of their holographic storage. In this thesis, the theoretical basis of the fact that organic/inorganic composite materials possess was built, and the advantages of anti-shrinkage and increasing the refractive index modulation of materials was carried out work on organic/inorganic photopolymer materials blended with SiO2-nanoparticles.
Multivariate Optimization of Fiber Reinforced Laminate Using Ant Colony Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Imran Malik M. , Mazhar Farrukh , Ahmad Riaz
Published: August 2016

Fiber reinforced laminate design is a challenging problem in the field of composite laminates. It provides us a systematic way to design the laminates of desired properties while conveniently incorporating the thick-ness and mass constraints. In this paper, we pursue the multivariate graphite fiber reinforced laminate design problem using Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) algorithm. Classical lamination theory is used to determine mid-plane strains, curvatures and stresses in individual lamina under applied biaxial loading conditions. The fiber orientations, lamina thickness, number of layers and fiber volume fractions of lamina are considered as the optimization variables. Failure of the lamina is analyzed by Tsai–Wu failure criterion. Objective of the study is to maximize the load carry capacity of the composite laminate structure and minimize the areal mass density under multivariate/multiobjective optimization.
Preparation of Coated Type Al-Al2O3 Cermet Composite Powders via the Calcination Oxidation Method
Authors: Song Jie Guang , Zhou Yun Jun , Wang Rui Hua , Li Shi Bin , Yu Shi Yuan , Li Yao Qi , Wang Ning , Huang Xiang Yun , Wang Zhi Wen
Published: August 2016

Cermet while maintaining the excellent properties of ceramic materials, but also have the advantages of a metal material, is an important new engineering materials. In this paper, prepared by calcination of alumina - aluminum metal-ceramic composite material powder, and its characterization as a basis to provide raw materials for preparing high performance metal ceramic material. According to the research, with the calcination temperature is increased, the rate of change gradually increase the weight of aluminum. Calcined at a temperature of 600¡æ, the oxidation of aluminum surface the best. With the firing time increases, the rate of change in the weight of aluminum powder showed an increasing trend. When 8h, oxidation of aluminum surface better. Through this experiment, process optimization can be found in the calcination temperature was 600¡æ, calcination time is 8h, the best coating effect aluminum surface, coating evenly, clean interface, the reaction layer thickness of about 700nm, the prepared package type composite powders the best results.
Synthesis and Characterization of CTA/CA-Based Forward Osmosis Membranes with Hydrophilic Nano-Titanium Dioxide
Authors: Wang Xiu Ju , Shi Xin Lian , Hou Shu Fang , Yang Jian Hua , Zhou Kai Li , Wang Zhong Peng , Wang Li Guo
Published: August 2016

In this paper, a novel nanocomposite forward osmosis membrane (nTiO2-CTA/CA) was fabricated by introducing nanotitaniumdi oxide (nTiO2) into the cellulose triacetate/cellulose acetate (CTA/CA)-based casting solution using phase inversion methods. Casting composite and preparation--nTiO2 content, blend temperature and coagulating bath temperature--were tested for their effects on pure water flux and salt rejection of membranes. Results revealed that the FO membrane prepared under optimized composition showed excellent desalination performance (high water flux = 5.38 L/m2·h and salt rejection > 97 %). Moreover, SEM images showed that addition of nTiO2 resulted in nanocomposite forward osmosis membrane with a smoother surface. The contact angle of the membranes decreased from 76o to 51° with increase nTiO2 concentration from 0% to 0.10%.
Heat Treatment of a Slurry Squeeze-Cast ZA-27 Alloy at 150 °C
Authors: Vongcharoenpon Supakit , Janudom Somjai , Plookphol Thawatchai
Published: August 2016

This work reports the result of heat treatment on microstructures and mechanical property of ZA-27 zinc alloy gear part produced by a slurry squeeze casting process. The Gas Induced Semi-Solid (GISS) technique was employed for preparation of the alloy slurry. The microstructures and mechanical property of the alloy were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and HRB hardness testing. The specimens were solid solution heat treated at 365 °C for 1 h and artificially aged at 150 °C for 0.5, 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 h. The as-cast microstructures of the alloy mainly consist of globular primary α phase surrounded by β,η and ε phases. After solution treatment the primary α and η phases were dissolved and transformed to the supersaturated β phase. At the early stage of ageing (0.5 – 3 h) the β phase decomposed to α and η phases. After a long period of ageing (6 – 24 h) α and ε phases decomposed through the transformation reaction: α + ε →T’+η. The hardness of specimens was increased after ageing for 0.5 h and gradually decreased with increasing ageing time. The peak hardness was 82 HRB at 0.5 h ageing. The hardness decreased to 62 HRB after ageing for 24 h.
Mechanical Analysis of Three Kinds of Beams on Non-Linear Elastic Foundation Materials
Authors: Chen Xiao Liang , Tian Zuan , Ding Jian Ping
Published: August 2016

The deformation and internal forces of beams on non-linear elastic foundation materials were studied. The reaction force between the beam and the foundation was fitted as a cubic polynomial about the deflection of beams by experimental data, and the corresponding control equations were derived by the finite difference method. MATLAB program with the Newton iteration method was used to obtain numerical results. Results of the numerical example show the deformation and internal force of short non-linear and linear elastic Winkler beams are same, but the relative errors can reach 10%-20% for moderate and long beams, so the non-linear foundation effect on the settlement of beams should be considered in engineering; the relative errors of the deformation and internal force between moderate non-linear and linear elastic Winkler beams vary with the length of beams, but keep invariant for long beams.
Mechanical Characterization of Beams on Tensionless Foundation Materials
Authors: Chen Xiao Liang , Yang Quan Hu , Ding Jian Ping
Published: August 2016

The deformation and internal forces of beams on tensionless foundation materials were studied. The reaction force between the beam the foundation was fitted as a cubic polynomial about the deflection based on the experimental data, and the corresponding control equations of beams were derived by the finite difference method. Results show there are significant differences between tensionless and tensional foundation materials for the deformation and internal forces of beams. The difference is varying with the length of beams. Both the relative errors of the maximum of deflection and slope can be over 20%, and the relative errors of the maximum of shearing force and bending moment are smaller comparatively, so the tensionless effect of foundation materials can not be neglected for the stiffness verification and the strength verification of beams.
Mechanical Analysis of Glass Plates for Wall Construction Materials
Authors: Chen Xiao Liang , Ding Jian Ping , Tian Zuan
Published: August 2016

Different thickness, length and shape ratios of point fixed glass in glass building were considered. Different numbers, position and radius of holes in glass were also considered. Point fixed glass was studied by the finite element method and ANSYS software. Results show the thickness has remarkable influences on the strength and stiffness. The maximal tensile stress and deflection increase quickly with larger size of square plates or ratio of width to length of rectangle plates. Plates with six holes have smaller maximal tensile stress and deflection than plates with four holes under the same other conditions. The maximal tensile stress and deflection decrease quickly with larger hole centre distance, and deceleration becomes slow. The largest tensile stress decrease quickly with larger hole radius, but the deflection and the stress on edges of plates decrease slowly.
Solution Heat Treatment of 7075 Aluminum Alloy Affected on Anodic Oxide Layer
Authors: Iewkitthayakorn Itsaree , Janudom Somjai , Mahathaninwong Narissara
Published: August 2016

This research focused on the effect of solution heat treated microstructures on anodic oxide formations of casting 7075 Al alloy. The casting specimens were solution heat treated at 450°C for various holding. The results showed that the quality of anodic oxide film on the specimen with 4h solution heat treatment time was higher than that of at other conditions. Because its microstructures obtained the lowest amounts of secondary phase particles leading to improve the quality of oxide film and also reduce defects in oxide film. On the other hand, coarse black particles of Mg2Si formed increasingly in microstructures of specimens after solution treatment at prolong holding time of 8h and 16h resulted in discontinues oxide films forming on them.
Experimental Characterization of the Dynamic Compressive Properties of Railway Wheel Steel
Authors: Han Liang Liang , Jing Lin , Wei Hua Cheng , Yan Yao Zhou
Published: August 2016

The dynamic compressive mechanical behavior of railway wheel steel at room temperature was investigated experimentally for strain rates up to ~2300/s, by using a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) apparatus. Experimental results indicate that the wheel steel exhibits an obvious strain rate-dependence; both yield strength and flow stress enhance with the increase of strain rate. Based on experimental data, an empirical dynamic constitutive model was used to describe the strain rate effect of wheel steel. These research results could provide reliable and accurate material constitutive parameters for wheel-rail impact simulations, to guide the design and assessment of the safety of the wheel-rail system.
Kinking Behavior of S-N Curve for Ti6Al4V Alloy Notched Specimen under a Load-Controlled High Cycle Fatigue Test
Authors: Htoo Aye Thant , Miyashita Yukio , Otsuka Yuichi , Mutoh Yoshiharu , Sakurai Shigeo
Published: August 2016

Notch fatigue behavior of Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy has been investigated under a load-controlled high cycle fatigue test. The S-N curve was kinked at the critical nominal stress amplitude, where the plastic deformation nucleated at notch root. The plastic zone size at the critical nominal stress amplitude was almost equal to the size of 4 grains of the present Ti-6Al-4V alloy, which were the same findings as in the 2024-T4 alloy used in the previous study. Above the critical nominal stress amplitude, the local stress ratio at notch root decreased with increasing nominal stress amplitude. The critical nominal stress amplitudes normalized by the cyclic yield stress were almost the same for Ti-6Al-4V alloy and the 2024-T4 alloy. The significant decrease of the local stress ratio with increasing nominal stress amplitude was observed in the 2024-T4 alloy with low cyclic yield stress and low cyclic hardening coefficient compared to the Ti-6Al-4V alloy with high cyclic yield stress and high cyclic hardening coefficient.
Research of the Continuous Annealing Process to Eliminate the "Band" Feature of Dual Phase Steels
Authors: Chen Ji Lin , Zhu Guo Hui , Zhang Jian , Liu Yong Gang , Pan Hong Bo
Published: August 2016

A new continuous annealing process which can eliminate the "band" feature of dual phase steels has been designed. The sheets were annealed in MULTIPAS annealing simulator under variation of annealing temperature. The microstructure evolution of dual-phase steel sheets annealed at intercritical temperatures, were analyzed by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. And the properties were compared with the sheets which annealed by the existing annealing process. The results show that: the "band" feature of dual-phase steel can be effectively eliminated by the optimizing continuous annealing process,and the mechanical properties are improved.
Rheological Characterizations of Copper - Palm Stearin Based Binder System for Metal Injection Moulding
Authors: Nordin Nor Amalina , Kamal Bahrin Mohammad Dahar , Wahab Nor‘aini , Omar Mohd Afian , Ismail Muhammad Hussain
Published: August 2016

This research paper reports the findings of feedstock establishment works for Metal Injection Moulding (MIM) of copper parts employing palm stearin based binder system. The main objective of this study is to explore an appropriate formulation of palm stearin-polyethylene (PSPE) binder system of copper feedstock that enabling the MIM process. Two formulations; 60%wt PS and 70%wt PS with constant powder loading of 60 vol. % Cu has been prepared. The mixing process of copper powder and binders was performed at the speed of 50 rpm at 160°C. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) has been used for the microstructural study of starting materials and mixtures. The rheological characterizarions for both formulations that were carried out using Rosand RH2000 Capillary Rheometer exhibited the pseudo plastic flow and in good agreement with previous findings.
Composition, Microstructure and Properties of Ultra-High-Strength Steel for Offshore Structural Application
Authors: Wang Xiang , Li Xiao Long , Yin Han Jun , Wang Li Quan , Gong Hai Xia
Published: August 2016

In this paper, first, based on the employing environment and properties requirement of offshore platform, the influence of various alloying elements on the performance of steel was analyzed and chemical composition of a new ultra-high-strength alloy steel was designed. Then, the designed alloy steel specimen has been prepared using intermediate frequency induction furnace. Austenization temperature of the steel was determined through thermal dilatometer. The effects of quenching and tempering process on microstructure and mechanical properties of the steel were studied by means of optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), durometer and universal material tensile tester. The research results indicated that the casting microstructure of the designed steel was a duplex structure of martensite and acicular bainite. The austenitizing onset temperature (Ac1) and termination temperature (Ac3) was 700°C and 790°C, respectively. With the increase of the austenitizing temperature, the hardness of the steel first increased until it reached the maximum value at 860°C and then decreased above 860°C. Meanwhile, the hardness of the steel decreased with the increasing of the tempering temperature in the range 150°C-500°C. The optimal heat-treatment processes were concluded as follows: heating up to 860°C, quenching by oil, and then tempering at 170°C. The superior mechanical properties of tensile strength of 1400MPa and elongation of 6.5% as well as the microstructure of tempered martensite were obtained after this heat treatment.
High Performance of Rutile Titanium Dioxide Whiskers/Epoxy Resin Composites
Authors: Feng Yao , Weng Zhang Zhao , Xu Wen Hao , Xiong Zhao Xian
Published: August 2016

Rutile TiO2 whisker/epoxy resin composites were prepared by hot-pressing process method. The effects of different content of TiO2 whiskers on the microstructure, microwave dielectric properties and flexural strength for TiO2/epoxy resin composites were investigated. Results show that flexural strength increased firstly, which can reach the maximum value (105.53 Mpa), then decreased with the content of TiO2 whisker (v%) increase. Moreover, the dielectric constant and dielectric loss of the TiO2/epoxy resin composites increase with the increased of TiO2 whisker (v%). When the content of TiO2 whisker is 60 v%, the TiO2 whisker/epoxy resin composites exhibit a higher permittivity (εr = 10.74) and relatively low dielectric loss (tanθ= 0.021).
Cutting Edge: Marginal Zone Macrophages Regulate Antigen Transport by B Cells to the Follicle in the Spleen via CD21
Authors: Prokopec Kajsa E. , Georgoudaki Anna-Maria , Sohn Silke , Wermeling Fredrik , Grönlund Hans , Lindh Emma , Carroll Michael C. , Karlsson Mikael C. I.
Published: August 2016

Marginal zone macrophages (MZM) are strategically located in the spleen, lining the marginal sinus where they sense inflammation and capture Ag from the circulation. One of the receptors expressed by MZM is scavenger receptor macrophage receptor with collagenous structure (MARCO), which has affinity for modified self-antigens. In this article, we show that engagement of MARCO on murine macrophages induces extracellular ATP and loss of CD21 and CD62L on marginal zone B cells. Engagement of MARCO also leads to reduction of Ag transport by marginal zone B cells and affects the subsequent immune response. This study highlights a novel function for MZM in regulating Ag transport and activation, and we suggest that MARCO-dependent ATP release regulates this through shedding of CD21 and CD62L. Because systemic lupus erythematosus patients were shown to acquire autoantibodies against MARCO, this highlights a mechanism that could affect a patient’s ability to combat infections.
Essential Requirement for IFN Regulatory Factor 7 in Autoantibody Production but Not Development of Nephritis in Murine Lupus
Authors: Miyagawa Fumi , Tagaya Yutaka , Ozato Keiko , Asada Hideo
Published: August 2016

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prototypic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by the production of autoantibodies against nuclear components. Recent genetic studies of SLE patients have revealed that IFN regulatory factor (IRF) 7 gene polymorphisms are associated with an increased risk of SLE, but the precise role of IRF7 in SLE development is not fully understood. We investigated the role of IRF7 in the pathogenesis of SLE using a mouse model and saw a curious dissociation of autoantibody production and development of glomerulonephritis. SLE was chemically induced into IRF7-deficient mice, and glomerulonephritis with deposits of IgG and lipogranulomas were observed after 10 mo. However, these mice failed to produce anti-dsDNA, ssDNA, ribonucleoprotein, and Sm autoantibodies. Following the chemical induction, IRF7-deficient mice expressed substantially lower levels of IFN-stimulated genes than did wild-type mice, but NF-κB target genes were equally upregulated in both strains. Therefore, the type I IFN pathway seems critical for the autoantibody production, but the NF-κB activation is sufficient for the development of glomerulonephritis in this model. Our study thus demonstrates a specific requirement for IRF7 in autoantibody production and uncovers a new layer of complexity in the pathogenesis of SLE.
Primary prevention of diabetes mellitus: current strategies and future trends
Authors: Bhattacharya Prasanta K. , Roy Aakash
Published: August 2016

Aim of this paper is to find evidence for primary prevention of type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) from epidemiological studies and clinical trials and the feasibility of applying these interventions in resource limited countries. T2DM, which accounts for more than nine-tenths of all diabetics, results from inadequate insulin secretion or underlying insulin resistance (IR). The prevalence of diabetes, mainly T2DM, has increased rapidly during the last few decades worldwide. Since the genetic background is unlikely to change during this short time period, the growing epidemic of T2DM is more likely due to changes in environmental or lifestyle risk factors including obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, alcohol and stress. The scope and feasibility for primary prevention of T2DM is based on elimination of these risk factors. This evidence that T2DM is preventable comes from epidemiologic studies and clinical trials of effect of lifestyle changes and drugs in development of T2DM. The positive effects are more profound and safer with lifestyle modifications (LSM) compared to medications. This is shown to be effective globally, across various ethnicities and races and sustainable on longterm follow-up. However, there is a major challenge in translating these evidences into economically viable and sustained community programs, as these LSM interventions are expensive, even by western standards. Future plan should focus on health education of the public, improving the national capacity to detect and manage the environmental risks including strategies to reduce stress, and development of innovative, cost effective, and scalable methodologies.
Attitudes of health service providers: the perspective of Persons with Disabilities in the Kumasi Metropolis of Ghana
Authors: Badu Eric , Opoku Maxwell P. , Appiah Seth C.Y.
Published: August 2016

Introduction: Awareness of disability issues has gained considerable interest by advocacy groups in recent years. However, it is uncertain whether attitudes and perceptions of all service providers and society have adjusted accordingly towards the health care of people with disabilities. This study sought to examine the attitudes of health providers from the perspective of people with disabilities in the Kumasi Metropolis. Methods: A cross-sectional study using semi-structured questionnaires was conducted with people with disabilities (with physical, hearing and visual impairments,) in the Kumasi Metropolis. The study used a multi-stage sampling involving cluster and simple random sampling to select 255 respondents split amongst the following five clusters of communities; Oforikrom, Subin, Asewase, Tafo and Asokwa. Data were analysed using STATA 14 and presented in descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The study found that 71% of the respondents faced some form of discrimination including the use of derogatory remarks, frustration and unavailable required services on the basis of their disability, the type of services they need and the location. Women were 3.89 times more likely to face discrimination; Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.89 (95% confidence interval [CI]; 1.41, 10.76), and visually impaired was more likely to be discriminated at the facility compared with physical disability; AOR = 5.05 (95% CI; 1.44, 17.65). However, respondents with some educational qualification and those who stayed with their family members were less likely to face discrimination; AOR = 0.08 (95% CI; 0.01, 0.39). Conclusion: The study recommends the provision of in-service training for service providers to update their knowledge on disability issues and improve access to services for people with disabilities.
’n Verrassende perspektief en verklaring van Openbaring
Authors: Saaiman De Wet
Published: August 2016

No abstract available.
О времени достижения высокого уровня невозвратным случайным блужданием в случайной среде
Authors: Afanasyev Valeriy Ivanovich
Published: August 2016

Пусть задана последовательность независимых одинаково распределенных пар случайных величин $(p_i, q_i), i\in \mathbf{Z}$, причем $p_0 + q_0 = 1$ и п.н. $p_0 > 0, q_0 > 0$. Рассматривается случайное блуждание в случайной среде $(p_i, q_i), i \in \mathbf{Z}$. Это означает, что при фиксированной случайной среде блуждающая частица совершает переход из состояния $i$ либо в состояние $(i + 1)$ с вероятностью $p_i$, либо в состояние $(i-1)$ с вероятностью $q_i$. Предполагается, что $\mathbf{E} \ln(p_0/q_0) < 0$, т.е. блуждание уходит на $-\infty$. Такие
блуждания подразделяются на три типа в зависимости от знака $\mathbf{E} ((p_0/q_0) \ln(p_0/q_0))$. В случае, когда последнее математическое ожидание равно нулю, устанавливается предельная теорема при $n\rightarrow\infty$ для распределения времени первого достижения уровня $n$ указанным блужданием.
Плотность распределения коммутанта случайных вращений трехмерного евклидова пространства
Authors: Malyshev Fedor Mikhailovich
Published: August 2016

На группе $SO(3)$ вращений трехмерного евклидова пространства определена базовая мера $\mu$,
отвечающая произведению равномерных распределений на множествах осей поворотов и углов поворотов.
Рассматриваются три плотности распределений относительно $\mu: \rho_0$ - плотность лево- и право-инвариантной меры (меры Хаара); $\rho_1$ - плотность распределения вращений $\Lambda^k, k\ge 2$, когда $\Lambda$ - случайное вращение с плотностью распределения $\rho_0$; $\rho_2$ - плотность распределения коммутанта $\Lambda_1^{-1}\Lambda_2^{-1}\Lambda_1\Lambda_2$, когда $\Lambda_1$, $\Lambda_2$ - случайные независимые вращения с плотностями распределения $\rho_0$. Показывается, что $\rho_2\equiv\sqrt{\rho_0\rho_1}{\pi\sqrt{2}}/{4}$, а мера $\mu_1$ с плотностью $\rho_1$ пропорциональна базовой мере $\mu$.
Mosquito Avoidance Practices and Knowledge of Arboviral Diseases in Cities with Differing Recent History of Disease
Authors: Haenchen Steven D. , Hayden Mary H. , Dickinson Katherine L. , Walker Kathleen , Jacobs Elizabeth E. , Brown Heidi E. , Gunn Jayleen K. L. , Kohler Lindsay N. , Ernst Kacey C.
Published: August 2016

As the range of dengue virus (DENV) transmission expands, an understanding of community uptake of prevention and control strategies is needed both in geographic areas where the virus has recently been circulating and in areas with the potential for DENV introduction. Personal protective behaviors such as the use of mosquito repellent to limit human–vector contact and the reduction of vector density through elimination of oviposition sites are the primary control methods for Aedes aegypti, the main vector of DENV. Here, we examined personal mosquito control measures taken by individuals in Key West, FL, in 2012, which had experienced a recent outbreak of DENV, and Tucson, AZ, which has a high potential for introduction but has not yet experienced autochthonous transmission. In both cities, there was a positive association between the numbers of mosquitoes noticed outdoors and the overall number of avoidance behaviors, use of repellent, and removal of standing water. Increased awareness and perceived risk of DENV were associated with increases in one of the most effective household prevention behaviors, removal of standing water, but only in Key West.
Point-of-Care Testing for Cryptococcal Disease Among Hospitalized Human Immunodeficiency Virus–Infected Adults in Ethiopia
Authors: Mamuye Admasu Tenna , Bornstein Ethan , Temesgen Obsie , Blumberg Henry M. , Kempker Russell R.
Published: August 2016

In a cross-sectional study among hospitalized human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–infected patients in Ethiopia, we sought to determine the rates and predictors of cryptococcal disease and evaluate the test performance of a recently introduced point-of-care test for Cryptococcus neoformans detection in various biological samples. We tested serum, urine, and fingerstick blood samples from each patient with a cryptococcal antigen lateral flow assay (CRAG LFA; Immuno Mycologic Inc., Norman, OK). Cerebrospinal fluid was collected at the discretion of the treating physician. Logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for a positive test result. Agreement between different sample types was also assessed. Among 198 hospitalized HIV-infected patients with a median CD4 count of 93 cells/mm3, 18 patients (9.1%) had a positive serum CRAG LFA. Of these, 16 (8.1%) had confirmed cryptococcal meningitis (CM), all of whom had a positive fingerstick blood LFA result. There was a very high agreement between CRAG LFA tests in serum and fingerstick blood samples (κ = 0.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.91–1.00); this was higher than that between serum and urine samples (κ = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.58–0.93). A CD4 count < 100 cells/mm3 was significantly associated with a positive CRAG LFA. The absence of fever, headache, meningismus, and neck stiffness had a negative predictive value of 100% for CM. In addition to finding high rates of cryptococcal disease, our study demonstrated that the use of the LFA on fingerstick whole blood is less invasive, and an effective method for CM case finding among hospitalized patients with HIV.