bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reconstruction mechanisms of tantalum oxide coatings with low concentrations of silver for high temperature tribological applications
Authors: Stone D. S. , Gao H. , Chantharangsi C. , Paksunchai C. , Bischof M. , Martini A. , Aouadi S. M.
Published: November 2014

Silver tantalate (AgTaO3) coatings have been found to exhibit outstanding tribological properties at elevated temperatures. To understand the mechanisms involved in the tribological behavior of the Ag-Ta-O system, tantalum oxide coatings with a small content of silver were produced to investigate the metastable nature of this self-lubricating material. The coatings were produced by unbalanced magnetron sputtering, ball-on-disk wear tested at 750 °C, and subsequently characterized by X-ray diffraction, Scanning Auger Nanoprobe, cross-sectional Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Transmission Electron Microscopy. Complementary molecular dynamic simulations were carried out to investigate changes in the chemical and structural properties at the interface due to sliding for films with varying silver content. Both the experimental characterization and the theoretical modeling showed that silver content affects friction and wear, through the role of silver in film reconstruction during sliding. The results suggest that the relative amount of silver may be used to tune film performance for a given application.
Giant increase of critical current density and vortex pinning in Mn doped KxFe2−ySe2 single crystals
Authors: Li Mingtao , Chen La , You Wen-Long , Ge Junyi , Zhang Jincang
Published: November 2014

We report a comparative study of the critical current density (Jc) and vortex pinning among pure and Mn doped KxFe2−ySe2 single crystals. It is found that the Jc values can be greatly improved by Mn doping and post-quenching treatment when comparing to pristine pure sample. In contrast to pure samples, an anomalous second magnetization peak (SMP) effect is observed in both 1% and 2% Mn doped samples at T = 3 K for H∥ab but not for H∥c. Referring to Dew-Hughes and Kramer's model, we performed scaling analyses of the vortex pinning force density vs magnetic field in 1% Mn doped and quenched pristine crystals. The results show that the normal point defects are the dominant pinning sources, which probably originate from the variations of intercalated K atoms. We propose that the large nonsuperconducting K-Mn-Se inclusions may contribute to the partial normal surface pinning and give rise to the anomalous SMP effect for H∥ab in Mn doped crystals. These results may facilitate further understanding of the superconductivity and vortex pinning in intercalated iron-selenides superconductors.
Low-frequency noise in reverse-biased Schottky barriers on InAlN/AlN/GaN heterostructures
Authors: Nsele S. D. , Escotte L. , Tartarin J.-G. , Piotrowicz S. , Delage S. L.
Published: November 2014

We present low-frequency gate noise characteristics of InAlN/AlN/GaN heterostructures grown by low-pressure metal-organic vapor phase epitaxy. The electric field in the InAlN barrier is determined from C-V measurements and is used for gate leakage current modeling. The latter is dominated by Poole-Frenkel emission at low reverse bias and Fowler-Nordheim tunneling at high electric field. Several useful physical parameters are extracted from a gate leakage model including polarizations-induced field. The gate noise fluctuations are dominated by trapping-detrapping processes including discrete traps and two continuums of traps with distributed time constants. Burst noise with several levels and time constant values is also observed in these structures. Low-frequency noise measurements confirm the presence of field-assisted emission from trap states. The 1/f noise model of McWorther is used to explain the 1/f-like noise behavior in a restricted frequency range.
Low frequency energy scavenging using sub-wave length scale acousto-elastic metamaterial
Authors: Ahmed Riaz U. , Banerjee Sourav
Published: November 2014

This letter presents the possibility of energy scavenging (ES) utilizing the physics of acousto-elastic metamaterial (AEMM) at low frequencies (<∼3KHz). It is proposed to use the AEMM in a dual mode (Acoustic Filter and Energy Harvester), simultaneously. AEMM’s are typically reported for filtering acoustic waves by trapping or guiding the acoustic energy, whereas this letter shows that the dynamic energy trapped inside the soft constituent (matrix) of metamaterials can be significantly harvested by strategically embedding piezoelectric wafers in the matrix. With unit cell AEMM model, we experimentally asserted that at lower acoustic frequencies (< ∼3 KHz), maximum power in the micro Watts (∼35µW) range can be generated, whereas, recently reported phononic crystal based metamaterials harvested only nano Watt (∼30nW) power against 10KΩ resistive load. Efficient energy scavengers at low acoustic frequencies are almost absent due to large required size relevant to the acoustic wavelength. Here we report sub wave length scale energy scavengers utilizing the coupled physics of local, structural and matrix resonances. Upon validation of the argument through analytical, numerical and experimental studies, a multi-frequency energy scavenger (ES) with multi-cell model is designed with varying geometrical properties capable of scavenging energy (power output from ∼10µW – ∼90µW) between 0.2 KHz and 1.5 KHz acoustic frequencies.
Thermal conductance of the junction between single-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Hu Lin , McGaughey Alan J. H.
Published: November 2014

The thermal conductances of the carbon nanotube (CNT) junctions that would be found in a CNT aerogel are predicted using molecular dynamics simulations. At a temperature of 300 K, the thermal conductance of a perpendicular junction converges to 40 pW/K as the CNT lengths approach 100 nm. The key geometric parameter affecting the thermal conductance is the angle formed by the two CNTs. At pressures above 1 bar, the presence of a surrounding gas leads to an effective increase in the junction thermal conductance by providing a parallel path for energy flow.
Ciliary transport regulates PDGF-AA/αα signaling via elevated mammalian target of rapamycin signaling and diminished PP2A activity
Authors: Umberger Nicole L. , Caspary Tamara , Bettencourt-Dias Monica
Published: November 2014

Primary cilia are built and maintained by intraflagellar transport (IFT), whereby the two IFT complexes, IFTA and IFTB, carry cargo via kinesin and dynein motors for anterograde and retrograde transport, respectively. Many signaling pathways, including platelet- derived growth factor (PDGF)-AA/αα, are linked to primary cilia. Active PDGF-AA/αα signaling results in phosphorylation of Akt at two residues: P-AktT308and P-AktS473, and previous work showed decreased P-AktS473in response to PDGF-AA upon anterograde transport disruption. In this study, we investigated PDGF-AA/αα signaling via P-AktT308and P-AktS473in distinct ciliary transport mutants. We found increased Akt phosphorylation in the absence of PDGF-AA stimulation, which we show is due to impaired dephosphorylation resulting from diminished PP2A activity toward P-AktT308. Anterograde transport mutants display low platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR)α levels, whereas retrograde mutants exhibit normal PDGFRα levels. Despite this, neither shows an increase in P-AktS473or P-AktT308upon PDGF-AA stimulation. Because mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling is increased in ciliary transport mutant cells and mTOR signaling inhibits PDGFRα levels, we demonstrate that inhibition of mTORC1 rescues PDGFRα levels as well as PDGF-AA–dependent phosphorylation of AktS473and AktT308in ciliary transport mutant MEFs. Taken together, our data indicate that the regulation of mTORC1 signaling and PP2A activity by ciliary transport plays key roles in PDGF-AA/αα signaling.
Kinetic control by limiting glutaredoxin amounts enables thiol oxidation in the reducing mitochondrial intermembrane space
Authors: Kojer Kerstin , Peleh Valentina , Calabrese Gaetano , Herrmann Johannes M. , Riemer Jan
Published: November 2014

The mitochondrial intermembrane space (IMS) harbors an oxidizing machinery that drives import and folding of small cysteine-containing proteins without targeting signals. The main component of this pathway is the oxidoreductase Mia40, which introduces disulfides into its substrates. We recently showed that the IMS glutathione pool is maintained as reducing as that of the cytosol. It thus remained unclear how equilibration of protein disulfides with the IMS glutathione pool is prevented in order to allow oxidation-driven protein import. Here we demonstrate the presence of glutaredoxins in the IMS and show that limiting amounts of these glutaredoxins provide a kinetic barrier to prevent the thermodynamically feasible reduction of Mia40 substrates by the IMS glutathione pool. Moreover, they allow Mia40 to exist in a predominantly oxidized state. Consequently, overexpression of glutaredoxin 2 in the IMS results in a more reduced Mia40 redox state and a delay in oxidative folding and mitochondrial import of different Mia40 substrates. Our findings thus indicate that carefully balanced glutaredoxin amounts in the IMS ensure efficient oxidative folding in the reducing environment of this compartment.
DISOPRED3: precise disordered region predictions with annotated protein-binding activity
Authors: Jones David T. , Cozzetto Domenico
Published: November 2014

Motivation: A sizeable fraction of eukaryotic proteins contain intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs), which act in unfolded states or by undergoing transitions between structured and unstructured conformations. Over time, sequence-based classifiers of IDRs have become fairly accurate and currently a major challenge is linking IDRs to their biological roles from the molecular to the systems level.

Results: We describe DISOPRED3, which extends its predecessor with new modules to predict IDRs and protein-binding sites within them. Based on recent CASP evaluation results, DISOPRED3 can be regarded as state of the art in the identification of IDRs, and our self-assessment shows that it significantly improves over DISOPRED2 because its predictions are more specific across the whole board and more sensitive to IDRs longer than 20 amino acids. Predicted IDRs are annotated as protein binding through a novel SVM based classifier, which uses profile data and additional sequence-derived features. Based on benchmarking experiments with full cross-validation, we show that this predictor generates precise assignments of disordered protein binding regions and that it compares well with other publicly available tools.

Availability and implementation:  http://bioinf.cs.ucl.ac.uk/disopred

Contact:  d.t.jones@ucl.ac.uk

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Targeting the INCENP IN-box–Aurora B interaction to inhibit CPC activity
in vivo
Authors: Gohard Florence H. , St-Cyr Daniel J. , Tyers Mike , Earnshaw William C.
Published: November 2014

The chromosome passenger complex (CPC) is an essential regulator of mitosis and cytokinesis. The CPC consists of Aurora B kinase, inner centromere protein (INCENP), and the targeting subunits survivin and borealin/Dasra B. INCENP is a scaffolding subunit for the CPC and activates Aurora B via its conserved IN-box domain. We show that overexpression of soluble IN-box in HeLa cells affects endogenous CPC localization and produces a significant increase in multinucleated and micronucleated cells consistent with CPC loss of function. The dominant-negative effect of soluble IN-box expression depends on residues corresponding to hINCENP W845 and/or F881, suggesting that these are essential for Aurora B binding
in vivo
. We then screened a targeted library of small (five to nine residues long) circular peptide (CP) IN-box fragments generated using split intein circular ligation of proteins and peptides (SICLOPPS) methodology. We identified a number of CPs that caused modest but reproducible increases in rates of multinucleated and micronucleated cells. Our results provide proof of concept that inhibition of the Aurora B–IN-box interaction is a viable strategy for interfering with CPC function
in vivo
.
Stick, partial slip and sliding in the plane strain micro contact of two elastic bodies
Authors: Adams George G.
Published: November 2014

The plane strain problem of a curved elastic body pressed against an elastic half-space is considered. The effect of adhesion is included through the use of surface energy in a manner similar to the well-known JKR theory for spherical contacts. The compressive normal force is held constant while a tangential force is gradually increased from zero. The contact is characterized by complete stick up to a critical value of the tangential force when there is a transition either directly to complete sliding or to a partial slip state in which a central stick region is surrounded by two slip regions. In the latter case, at a finite value of the stick zone width, a second critical condition exists at which there is a transition from partial slip to complete sliding. This behaviour is determined for a range of dimensionless values of the work of adhesion, the assumed constant shear stress during slip/sliding and the initial compressive load.
Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of the phosphate-binding protein PhoX fromXanthomonas citri
Authors: Pegos Vanessa R. , Medrano Francisco Javier , Balan Andrea
Published: November 2014

Xanthomonas axonopodispv.citri(X. citri) is an important bacterium that causes citrus canker disease in plants in Brazil and around the world, leading to significant economic losses. Determination of the physiology and mechanisms of pathogenesis of this bacterium is an important step in the development of strategies for its containment. Phosphate is an essential ion in all microrganisms owing its importance during the synthesis of macromolecules and in gene and protein regulation. Interestingly,X. citrihas been identified to present two periplasmic binding proteins that have not been further characterized: PstS, from an ATP-binding cassette for high-affinity uptake and transport of phosphate, and PhoX, which is encoded by an operon that also contains a putative porin for the transport of phosphate. Here, the expression, purification and crystallization of the phosphate-binding protein PhoX and X-ray data collection at 3.0 Å resolution are described. Biochemical, biophysical and structural data for this protein will be helpful in the elucidation of its function in phosphate uptake and the physiology of the bacterium.
Study of anticorrosion and microwave absorption properties of NiZn ferrite pigments
Authors: Miszczyk A. , Darowicki K.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report the electrochemical verification of anticorrosive properties of NiZn ferrites as pigments in protective coatings and evaluation of their microwave absorbing properties.

Design/methodology/approach

Ferrites, represented by formula NixZn(1−x)Fe2O4, where x=0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, were synthesized using a ceramic method. The samples of ferrites were examined by X‐ray diffraction and SEM. Immersion tests in ferrite extracts, combined with electrochemical tests using techniques such as polarization curves, linear polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were involved to determine the protective action provided by the ferrites. Epoxy coatings containing 10 vol.% of the ferrite were investigated using EIS. Experimental verification is provided of the microwave attenuation capability of coatings containing the investigated ferrites. Reflection loss, measured in the frequency range of 6.5‐15 GHz, exhibited maximum attenuation at a level of 8‐16 dB.

Findings

The results obtained suggest that NiZn ferrites possess active anticorrosive properties and support inhibition of the cathodic reaction by scale deposition at the metal substrate in an alkaline environment created by the pigments and the cathodic reaction. Additionally, they can serve as a microwave suppressor.

Practical implications

NiZn pigments can be used in coatings to serve simultaneously as an active anticorrosion, non‐toxic pigment and a material protecting against electromagnetic interference problems.

Originality/value

The paper provides information regarding the anticorrosive properties of NiZn ferrites as pigments for protective coatings and also microwave absorbing materials. An attempt was made to elucidate the potential mechanism of anticorrosive action of these pigments.
The Southwest Academy of Management: in search of diversity research
Authors: Baugh Gayle
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on the 2007 meeting of the Southwest Academy of Management (SWAM) that incorporated content related to gender and diversity.

Design/methodology/approach

SWAM offers a track each year that includes gender and diversity research. For the 2007 meeting gender and diversity was combined with human resources, careers, and social issues in management.

Findings

One paper introduced a new form of surface‐level (observable) diversity – military status. There were two diversity‐related papers, one looking generally at the importance of cultural differences in global management systems and the other focusing on cultural differences between the USA and Mexico. The final paper incorporating diversity issues focused on the influence of cultural differences within student teams on individual learning.

Originality/value

The diversity papers included in this conference showed a focus on diversity introduced through globalization, which is of value in highlighting the need for diversity scholars to develop expertise in international management or to develop collaborations with colleagues who pursue international management.
Integrating people with disability into the workforce: the case of a retail chain
Authors: Buc˘i¯unien˙e Ilona , Kazlauskait˙e R¯uta
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide insights into diversity management practices in the Baltic states and present experience of HRM practitioners' in initiating the integration of people with disability into the workforce at a multi national retail chain.

Design/methodology/approach

An interview with HR managers of a retail chain on issues related to the integration of people with disability into the workforce, providing background for the relevance, motives, implementation difficulties and organisational benefits of such practices from a business perspective.

Findings

Main challenges related with integration of people with disability into the workforce are as follows: attraction of people with disability, work adjustment to meet the abilities of employees with disability, and preparation of managers and co‐workers to work along with these people. Attraction of people with disability works best on the basis of references from their peers. These people make highly loyal employees. Besides they contribute to the development of a more positive climate in the organisation.

Originality/value

This paper presents a good practice case on the integration of people with disability, one of the most discriminated groups of employees, which is still a rare business practice in the Baltic countries. It also provides recommendations on integration issues for other practitioners.
A tool for rigid multibody modelling of impacted structures
Authors: Drazétic P. , Tassin R. , Ravalard Y.
Published: November 2014

Rigid multibody modelling is used to study the crash‐related
global behaviour of transport vehicles. These models are made up rigid
bodies, joints and springs. Distinct kinematic models have been developed in
order to analytically determine the resistance to collapse of
thin‐walled structures of simple geometry subjected to compression or
bending loading. The modeller must position these different elements but has
no information on their numbers and their locations. For this reason, a
modelling aiding tool, based on the elastic buckling analysis, has been
developed. This method is used to resolve a problem of an “S”
frame undergoing a collision against a rigid block to estimate its
validity.
Finite element analysis on PCs with an ms—windows graphical user
interface
Authors: Sander R. , Pittman J.F.T.
Published: November 2014

A tailored graphical user interface (GUI) for finite element
analysis, fully integrated into Microsoft Windows 3.1, has been developed.
The current application is the simulation of flat sheet extrusion of
thermoplastics, but many of the features would be common to a wide range of
finite element analyses. Microsoft’s C/C++ Professional
Development System 7.0, including the Software Development Kit 3.1
(SDK), has been used as the programming tool for the GUI. The
interface is based on the Common User Access Advanced Interface Design Guide,
which is part of the IBM Systems Application Architecture Library, and The
Windows Interface: An Application Design Guide, which is part of the
SDK. A memory handling technique is proposed to break the imposed 64 KB data
segmentation. Connected finite element calculation routines are written in
Fortran and compiled by the Salford FTN77/x86 32‐bit compiler. The
protected mode interface of the Fortran compiler allows direct access by the
GUI, and allows the computation to run as a 32‐bit background
application, without memory limitations, in the multitasking environment.
Finite element routines are supported by pre‐ and
post‐processors comprising mesh generation, post‐processing for
derived results, and graphical displays. A convenient contouring algorithm
is proposed to generate contoured plots of nodal quantities in the form of
iso‐lines or iso‐fields.
On adaptivity for diffusion problems using triangular elements
Authors: Padra C. , Vénere M.J.
Published: November 2014

In this work an adaptive scheme to solve diffusion problems, using
linear and quadratic triangles, is presented. The densification algorithm,
based on the subdivision of the selected elements, and the error estimator
used are described first. We pay special attention to the behaviour of the
estimator. It has two contributions: the residual term and the
flux‐jump term. Babuska and co‐workers have shown that for
bilinear quadrilterals, the first term is negligible, but for biquadratic, it
is the dominant term. We show evidence suggesting that these results cannot
be extended to triangular elements when the problem has a singular solution.
We found, in this case, that if the flux‐jump term is neglected, the
expected rate of convergence cannot be obtained. Finally, some remarks about
the whole adaptive process are discussed.
Error estimators for viscoplastic materials: application to forming
processes
Authors: Fourment L. , Chenot J.L.
Published: November 2014

The analysis of error estimation is addressed in the framework of
viscoplasticity problems, this is to say, of incompressible and
non‐linear materials. Firstly, Zienkiewicz—Zhu
(Z2) type error estimators are studied. They are based on
the comparison between the finite element solution and a continuous solution
which is computed by smoothing technique. From numerical examples, it is
shown that the choice of a finite difference smoothing method (Orkisz’
method) improves the precision and the efficiency of this type of
estimator. Then a Δ estimator is introduced. It makes it possible to
take into account the fact that the smoothed solution does not verify the
balance equations. On the other hand, it leads us to introduce estimators for
the velocity error according to the L2 and L∞norms,
since in metal forming this error is as important as the energy error. These
estimators are applied to an industrial problem of extrusion, demonstrating
all the potential of the adaptive remeshing method for forming
processes.
Finite element simulation of the inertia welding of two similar
parts
Authors: Moal A. , Massoni E.
Published: November 2014

A complete thermo‐mechanical model for the simulation of the
inertia welding process of two similar parts is described. The material
behaviour is represented by an incompressible viscoplastic Norton—Hoff
law in which the rheological parameters are dependent on temperature. The
friction law was determined experimentally and depends on the prescribed
pressure and the relative rotating velocity between the two parts. The
mechanical problem is solved considering the virtual work principle including
inertia terms. The computation of the three components of the velocity field
such as radial, longitudinal and rotational velocity, in an axisymmetric
approximation allows to take into account the torsional effects. The domain
is updated based on a Lagrangian formulation. The non‐linear heat
transfer equation with boundary conditions (convection, radiation and
friction flux) is solved separately for each time step. Error estimators
on mechanical and thermal computation are devised to adapt the mesh in an
automatic way. Finally, numerical results concerning evolution of parts
shape, strain, temperature, rotating velocity, upsetting are compared with
actual industrial welds.
Modelling of damaged RC beams strengthened by fibre composite plates
Authors: Ziraba Y.N. , Baluch M.H. , Sharif A.M. , Al—Sulaimani G.J. , Azad A.K. , Basunbul I.A.
Published: November 2014

This paper presents a finite element model for analysis of damagedRCbeams strengthened or repaired by externally bonding glass fibre reinforced plastics (GFRP) on the tension side of the beams. The salient features include: (i) the introduction of a thin, six—noded element to simulate behaviour of the concrete/epoxy glue/GFRPinterface and )ii( a scheme of loading a virginRCbeam to a prescribed displacement to simulate damage, unloading and then reloading the damagedRCbeam fortified by an externally bondedGFRPplate. Results are presented forRCbeams repaired by plates of varying thickness and a transmutation of failure mode is noted from classical flexure for the case of external reinforcement in the form of thinGFRPplates to a unique concrete cover rip off failure for thickerGFRPplates and not predicted by theACIshear strength formula for diagonal tension failure of unplatedRCbeams of similar geometry.
Mastertool: A New Dry Phototool in the Production of Printed Circuit Boards
Authors: Eickmans J. , Leenders L. , Lamotte J. , Dierksen K. , Jacobsen W.
Published: November 2014

Mastertool MT8 is a new dry phototool for the production of printed circuit boards, which represents a completely new technology. MT8 is not sensitive to daylight, is free of silver and inherently environmentally safe as the material does not contain any toxic
ingradients, no processing chemicals are required and no waste arises. For imaging, the
non‐transparent thin bismuth layer of MT8, embedded between polymers, is agglomerated into
beads through IR laser radiation, making this area optically transparent. Light and electron microscopy as well as X‐ray diffractometry are used to characterise the
composition of the material and the details of the recording processes. Based on finite element
modelling, it was possible to interpret theoretically the experimentally determined dependence of the
sensitivity on the recording speed. Understanding these material properties enables plotter optimisation
for MT8.
General Principles of Design and Layout (of Printed Board
Assemblies)
Authors: MacLeod Ross W. , Leonida G.
Published: November 2014

This issue of the journal
features the second part of a three part series which comprises Chapter 8 from Volume 1 of the
recently published book ‘A Comprehensive Guide to the Manufacture of Printed
Board Assemblies’** edited by W. MacLeod Ross.Volume 1,
containing 800 pages, and Volume 2, scheduled to be published in the Spring of 1997 and
estimated to contain around 900 pages, will, as far as the publishers are aware, be the most
comprehensive book ever published on the subject of printed board assemblies.
Validation of the electromagnetic design of a total artificial heart under physical load conditions
Authors: Finocchiaro Thomas , Pohlmann André , Cuenca Navalon Elena , Leßman Marc , Steinseifer Ulrich , Hameyer Kay
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the RWTH's total artificial heart, ReinHeart, focusing on the design of the unique drive system.

Design/methodology/approach

The force characteristics of the drive have been simulated in a finite element (FE) approach. Additionally the coppler losses within the motor coils have been predicted based on the FE‐simulation. Both results are compared to laboratory measurements of a prototype to validate the design.

Findings

The presented results show a good correlation between simulation and measurement and proof the applicability of the new design drive system.

Research limitations/implications

The used hydraulic models of the cardiovasular system used as a load for the device are not fully validated with data from living organisms. Therefore, further in vivo trials are needed.

Originality/value

The high force density of the drive allows its integration into a fully implantable, total artificial heart, in order to significantly improve durability. This hopefully will extend the indication for artificial hearts as alternatives to transplantation.
Internet application concept to trivialize EMF biomedical computing
Authors: Sawicki Bartosz , Chaber Bartosz , Starzyński Jacek , Szmurło Robert
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a new concept of a computer system devoted to simulations of electromagnetic fields inside the human body. The main idea is based on application of the cloud computing approach to the electromagnetic simulator for inexperienced operators.

Design/methodology/approach

Modular design of the system is based on web technologies. The logic of simulation processes is stored in the form of scenarios consisting of several simple steps.

Findings

The authors found that a system based on a predefined, precise scenario will help an inexperienced user to solve realistic EMF simulations using state‐of‐the‐art technology. Highly modular application could be easily extended to the new functionality provided by independent programs (Processors) utilizing any type of a dedicated hardware platform.

Practical implications

The remote computing is known by computer science for its early beginning, but extraordinary growth of the internet network is renewing this term for the whole societies. Nowadays all kinds of applications are moving out of the desktop computers. The concept presented in this paper extends this new approach into realistic EMF simulation software.

Social implications

The authors have designed a system which is extremely easy to use and thus accessible to everyone. It means that the user front‐end should have low computer hardware requirements and it could be operated by an untrained person. It is assumed that it will be fully usable, even by the first‐time, incidental user.

Originality/value

The presented project is one of the very few examples of utilization of the web‐technologies for numerical simulations. The unusual user interface based on the sequence of predefined steps makes the system appropriate for a wide audience.
Equivalent circuit of photovoltaic generator using Newton‐Raphson algorithm
Authors: Theocharis Andreas D. , Charalampakos Vasilis P. , Drosopoulos Anastasios , Milias‐Argitis John
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a linearized equivalent electrical circuit of a photovoltaic generator. This circuit is appropriate to confront problems such as numerical instability, increased computational time and nonlinear/non‐canonical form of system equations that arise when a photovoltaic system is modelled, either with differential equations or with equivalent resistive circuits that are generated by electromagnetic transient software packages for power systems studies.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed technique is based on nonlinear and well‐tested ipv−vpv equations which are however used in an alternative mathematical manner. The application of the Newton‐Raphson algorithm on the ipv−vpv equations leads to uncoupling of the ipv and vpv quantities in each time step of a digital simulation. This uncoupling is represented by a linearized equivalent electrical circuit.

Findings

The application of nodal analysis equivalent resistive circuits using the proposed equivalent photovoltaic generator circuit leads to a system model based on linear algebraic equations. This is in opposition to the nonlinear models that normally result when a nonlinear ipv−vpv equation is used. In addition, using the proposed scheme, the regular systematic methods of circuit analysis are fully capable of deriving the differential equations of a photovoltaic system in standard form, thus avoiding the time‐consuming solution process of nonlinear models.

Originality/value

In this paper, a new method of using the ipv−vpv characteristic equations is proposed which remarkably simplifies photovoltaic systems modeling. Moreover, a very important practical application is that by using this methodology one can develop a photovoltaic generator element in electromagnetic transient programs for power systems analysis, of great value to power engineers who are involved in photovoltaic systems modeling.
Video management – mystified with the rest of us
Authors: Cottrell Terrance (Terry)
Published: November 2014

Purpose

This paper aims to explain how library managers can better prepare and plan for the future institutional structural costs related to the management of seemingly limitless streaming video content.

Design/methodology/approach

Different strategies are provided as antidotes to the problem of information technology (IT) managers being given the default responsibility of managing internet video because of their current management of internet services within organizations.

Findings

The paper finds that the mindset that streaming video is simply another information source to be added to the library's already rich set of offerings is preferred over the assumption that since IT manages internet services it should also manage video being streamed over the web to researchers.

Originality/value

This paper reviews the situation of streaming video as a unique problem because of the popularity of sound and movement over the printed word. It provides four distinct managerial options for cost control and containment in terms of staffing and striving for political clout in this quickly‐growing area of information services.
The transport phenomena of semi‐permeable membrane for sport cloth
Authors: Havelka Antonin , Ku˙s Zdeněk
Published: November 2014

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the comfort properties of modern functional clothing, such as moisture and heat transport. Transport properties are evaluated for real barrier membrane clothes for sport application, under real weather conditions in Middle Europe.

Design/methodology/approach

The different combination of functional clothing, with barrier membrane, were investigated under different temperatures and relative moistures inside and outside clothing layers. Water vapour permeability was measured under the steady‐state conditions, by sweating guarded‐hotplate test.

Findings

This paper describes the theoretical analysis of moisture transport, and its influence on thermal conductivity; the paper investigates various barrier fabrics for sport apparel, and their ranges of water vapour transport ability under real weather conditions.

Research limitations/implications

All received results are based on the transport of water vapour through a semi‐permeable membrane and are supposed to be conducted mainly within a process of diffusion.

Originality/value

This paper is focused on the theoretical analysis of transport by diffusion of water vapour through porous semi‐permeable barrier textile material, and evaluates the real possibilities for sport applications. The level of transport is limited and mainly depends on the difference of the partial pressures of water vapours outside and inside the porous clothing material.
Evaluating reverse logistics programs: a suggested process formalization
Authors: Genchev Stefan E. , Glenn Richey R. , Gabler Colin B.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

Suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers alike are still considering reverse logistics (RL) to be the “necessary evil” in their day‐to‐day operations rather than an opportunity for future performance. At the same time, a well‐structured RL program can create a substantial value‐added and positively affect the bottom‐line. Based on in‐depth investigation of best‐in‐class RL programs implemented in practice, the purpose of this paper is to offer a grounded flow charting approach for assessing the state of program development and, potentially, identifying areas for improvement across different companies in various industries.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study utilizes rich qualitative research methodology based on the combination between a thorough review of existing literature and multiple field studies. The findings from existing research, semi‐structured interviews and observation at companies’ sites, and RL‐related documentation at those companies, provide the backbone for the development of the assessment tool.

Findings

Although substantial variations exist in the way companies are setting up their RL programs, some common processes prevail. Formalizing these processes and related activities becomes the differentiating factor in RL program development and implementation. In addition, providing structure to the RL effort helps companies to strategically control the related value‐added.

Originality/value

The paper introduces process formalization as a necessary condition for the development and implementation of RL programs. The grounded flow charting approach, based on a qualitative inquiry in real business situations, aims to bridge the gap between theoretical developments and practical guidance for best‐in‐class RL operations.
Teaching/learning methods and students' classification of food items
Authors: Hamilton‐Ekeke Joy‐Telu , Thomas Malcolm
Published: November 2014

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of a teaching method (TLS (Teaching/Learning Sequence)) based on a social constructivist paradigm on students' conceptualisation of classification of food.

Design/methodology/approach

The study compared the TLS model developed by the researcher based on the social constructivist paradigm with the Regular Teaching Method (RTM) in use in the school. Students exposed to the TLS model constituted the experimental group, while the students exposed to the RTM constituted the control group. The design was a pre‐test/post‐test control design with a retention‐phase.

Findings

Results before intervention revealed gross misconceptions of pupils' classification of food, while after intervention there was significant improvement of the TLS over RTM.

Research limitations/implications

The context of the research is limited to students' conceptualisation of classification of food items into the five classes of food, i.e. carbohydrate, protein, fat, vitamin, and mineral. Although food group allocation was validated from previous literature, it is still a potential limitation as a single food item may contain more than one nutrient, which makes its classification in a single food class difficult.

Practical implications

Understanding whether students' conceptualisation of classes of food is changed by the information they received by established methods would be valuable when devising methods of delivering nutrition education.

Social implications

Food provision in schools must support the messages that pupils receive through the formal curriculum.

Originality/value

Education can be immensely helpful in the pursuit of better understanding by children regarding healthy eating.
Determinants of need for support in families with young children
Authors: Asscher Jessica , Hermanns Jo , Deković Maja
Published: November 2014

The prevalence, correlates (child behaviour problems and negative parenting) and determinants (risk and protective factors) of parental need for support were examined in a community sample of 177 mothers with a child aged 1.5‐3.5 years, in order to draw a profile of families that need parenting support. A substantial number of the mothers reported needing support (40% reported need for information, 10% reported family and social support needs). This need was related to child behaviour problems and to negative parenting. Maternal depression, difficult temperament of the child and negative life events, as well as total number of risk factors, significantly predicted the need for support. Satisfaction with support (but not number of support sources) acted as a protective factor.
Sustainability of the effectiveness of a programme of multisystemic treatment (MST) across participant groups in the second year of operation
Authors: Ogden Terje , Hagen Kristine , Andersen Oddbjørn
Published: November 2014

In order to examine the sustainability of programme effectiveness, we investigated whether the effects of multisystemic treatment (MST) on a second group of adolescents would match those reported in an earlier randomised controlled trial (RCT). Pre‐ and post‐treatment assessments were analysed in a participant group of 105; 55 youths were referred to MST in the programme's second year of operation (MST2), and 50 youths were included in the RCT the first year in which 30 were randomly assigned to MST (MST1) and 20 to regular services (RS).At two project sites, MST clinical outcomes in the second year of programme operation matched and, for key indices of anti‐social behaviour, surpassed those achieved during the first year. In addition the MST treatment delivered in the second year was more effective than regular child welfare services in preventing out of home placement and reducing internalising and externalising behaviour. Together, these results demonstrated sustained effectiveness of the programme as well as indication of programme maturation effects. No group differences were registered for social competence. MST youths treated in the second year were significantly younger than those referred to treatment in the first year (MST1) but age had no moderating effect on the outcomes.
Early results from developing and researching the Webster‐Stratton Incredible Years Teacher Classroom Management Training Programme in North West Wales
Authors: Hutchings Judy , Daley Dave , Jones Karen , Martin Pam , Bywater Tracey , Gwyn Rhiain
Published: November 2014

The evidence‐based Incredible Years Teacher Classroom Management (TCM) Programme was developed to meet demands from teachers for strategies to manage disruptive behaviours in the classroom (Webster‐Stratton, 1999). This article describes the programme and reports on its first use in the UK. In the first study 23 teachers attended the five‐day classroom management programme, 20 completed the final satisfaction questionnaire and 21 participated in a semi‐structured follow‐up interview. Teachers who implemented the training in their classrooms reported satisfaction with the programme and believed that the strategies taught were effective and improved pupils' conduct. In the second study, blind observation of teacher classroom behaviour was undertaken in 21 classes: 10 teachers had received the TCM training and 11 had not. Teachers who received TCM training gave clearer instructions to children and allowed more time for compliance before repeating instructions. The children in their classes were more compliant than children in the classes of untrained teachers. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Translating research into practice: the challenges of establishing a new multi‐agency team for vulnerable children
Authors: Cottrell David , Bollom Paul
Published: November 2014

The aim of this article is to describe a consultation/mentoring dialogue between a researcher of multi‐agency teams and a multi‐agency team manager, by providing a content analysis of the notes of a series of mentoring dialogues, presented in the form of a conversation. Themes discussed include: governance and the role of the steering group; managing the agencies; the role of the team manager; explanatory and practice/intervention models; job roles; professional procedures; workload; team functioning and culture; and the consultation process itself. The article suggests that research findings can usefully inform the development of new multi‐agency teams and that collaboration between researchers and service managers can be mutually beneficial.
Building access to healthcare in rural India: possibility and feasibility of low‐cost medicine
Authors: Dongre Yashavantha , Mahadevappa B. , Rohini R.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the possibility of marketing specific low‐cost drugs across segmented markets in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is empirical in nature, based on the primary data gathered through actual field survey. The study analyzes the attitudes, perceptions and experiences of five stockists, 50 physicians and 100 patients drawn from 20 healthcare organizations from different parts of the State of Karnataka in India.

Findings

The survey findings revealed that patients would be happy and would have better access to medicine if the same is offered at a lower price. Doctors are willing to prescribe generic drugs. Generic drug market has good economic feasibility. At present, the consumption of generic drugs to branded drugs in hospitals is found to be in the ratio 2:3 while for the stockist it is in the ratio 1:2. The study also revealed the fact that patients prefer to take generic medicines mostly on the basis of physicians' advice. They do consider cost but generally go by the prescriptions of the doctors.

Practical implications

Prescribing generic drugs would definitely contribute to greater use of medicine by the rural poor and thus better health conditions in rural areas. Low‐cost medicine is an opportunity for pharmaceutical companies because consumers of healthcare are increasingly concerned with the quality and the cost of drugs that they buy. This research enhances sales and marketing management in terms of creating awareness of the importance of doctors' perceptions. Healthcare providers would benefit from the findings of this paper.

Originality/value

As the generic drug market encompasses a variety of healthcare professionals and users, this paper establishes a practical methodology to have an understanding about the attitudes, perceptions and experiences of stockists, physicians and patients regarding the usage of such low‐cost drugs.
Policy implementation in Wales: current implications for Welsh people with learning disabilities and complex mental health needs including challenging behaviour
Authors: Matthews Helen
Published: November 2014

An overview of the mechanisms for policy implementation in Wales to better meet the mental health needs of people with learning disabilities is given. Commissioning of health services within Wales is at two levels. The complex relationships between commissioners, planners and service providers are described. Reviews of mental health services and secure services are due in 2007. Both include services for people with learning disabilities. The input of the Learning Disability Implementation Advisory Group into initiatives is outlined.
Parents with learning disabilities ‐ the assessment of parenting ability
Authors: Bernard Sarah
Published: November 2014

There is increasing awareness of the needs of parents who have a learning disability with the emphasis being on the requirement to provide ‘good enough’ parenting to their children. This paper explores these issues and considers how these parenting needs might be addressed.