bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Talent-Management As a New Direction in the Area of Human Resources Management
Authors: Лысенко  , Lysenko E. , Ковалева  , Kovaleva Inessa
Published: July 2015

The article is devoted to talent management as topical aspects of personnel management. The main attention is paid to the problem of understanding the

nature of talent, its species and specific features considering that it is a purely individual capacity, expressed in varying degrees of mastery of man. An attempt

to describe the process of talent management in the organization, which allocated 5 steps: setting for talent, attract talent, use talent, talent development and

talent evaluation. Separate focus is directed to the technological rules and compliance with the stages of creating a talent management technologies in order

to build an effective talent management system, which must constantly grow and develop by providing continuous training for the organization of employment,

work activities, material and non-material motivation and produce consistent profits.
Analysis of Factors Affecting Job Satisfaction аnd Recommendations for Staff Motivation
Authors: Сухова  , Sukhova E. , Семенова  , Semenova Elena
Published: July 2015

Conducted a survey of 56 employees of various companies and 34 of the second year students of Samara State Economic University, specialty “Management of personnel” with the help of a special author’s questionnaire (E.V. Sukhova, E.G. Semenova) study to explore the 15 indicators that are meaningful to employees. Respondents were asked to rate on a ten-point system the importance of certain factors. The factors were ranked separately for students — individuals who do not have real experience, and for those with experience. Analysis of the results allowed to identify the factors important for staff with experience and students. These factors may be used to motivate staff to improve work efficiency. Motivation of staff with experience and young differs. For managers, heads of institutions it is advisable to take this into account in their work.
Optimizing Cotton Irrigation Strategies as Influenced by El Niño Southern Oscillation
Authors: Baumhardt R. L. , Mauget S. A. , Gowda P. H. , Brauer D. K. , Marek G. W.
Published: July 2015

Equatorial Pacific sea surface temperature anomalies can cause a systematic El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) coupling with the atmosphere to produce predictable weather patterns in much of North America. Adapting irrigation strategies for drought‐tolerant crops like cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) to exploit forecast climatic conditions represents one potential innovative technique for managing the declining Ogallala Aquifer beneath the US Southern High Plains. The crop simulation model GOSSYM was used with ENSO phase‐specific weather records during 1959 to 2000 at Bushland, TX, to estimate lint yields of cotton emerging on three dates from soil at 50 or 75% available water content for all possible combinations of irrigation durations (0, 4, 6, 8, and 10 wk) and rates (2.5, 3.75, and 5.0 mm d−1). From those data, our objective was to compare partial center pivot deficit irrigation strategies that optimize calculated net cotton lint yield in relation to ENSO phase, initial soil water content, and emergence date. Although phase classification in June was inconsistent with maturing fall phases, the most accurately classified La Niña phase had limited rain that reduced lint yields compared with wetter Neutral and El Niño phases. During La Niña phase conditions, irrigation strategies that focused fixed water resources on smaller areas were better suited to increase net yield than spreading water across larger areas. Alternatively, during less predictable and wetter Neutral and El Niño phases, irrigation strategies that spread water increased net lint yield over focused applications except when both initial soil water and irrigation amount were limiting.
No‐Tillage Cropping Systems Can Replace Traditional Summer Fallow in North‐Central Oregon
Authors: Machado Stephen , Pritchett Larry , Petrie Steven
Published: July 2015

Winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)–summer fallow (WW–SF) using conventional tillage (CT), the predominant cropping system in eastern Oregon, has increased soil erosion and depleted soil organic carbon (SOC). This research evaluates no‐tillage (NT) systems designed to reduce these negative impacts on soil. In this long‐term experiment (2004–2010), WW–SF using CT was compared with annual winter wheat (WW–WW), annual spring wheat (SW–SW), annual spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) (SB–SB), winter wheat–chemical fallow (WW–CF), winter wheat–winter pea (Pisum sativum L.) (WW–WP), and winter wheat–spring barley–chemical fallow rotation (WW–SB–CF), using NT. Measurements included, phenology, plant population, grain yield and yield components, residues, SOC, soil moisture, and precipitation. Water‐use efficiency (WUE) was derived from precipitation and yield data. Under annual cropping, WW–WP and SB–SB produced higher yields than WW–WW and SW–SW. Grain yields in rotations with fallow (WW–SF, WW–CF, and WW–SB–CF) were not significantly different. On an annual basis, SB–SB and WW‐WP produced the highest and lowest yields, respectively. The WUEs of fallow rotations, SB–SB, and SW–SW, were not different but were higher than WUEs of WW–WP and WW–WW. Residue cover and SOC were highest under annual cropping systems and lowest following peas in WW–WP and SF in WW–SF. We conclude that rotations with fallow using NT (WW–CF and WW–SB–CF) can replace the traditional WW–SF system without yield penalty.
FREEZING OF BIOLOGICAL TISSUES DURING CRYOSURGERY USING HYPERBOLIC HEAT CONDUCTION MODEL
Authors: Singh Sonalika , Kumar Sushil
Published: July 2015

This paper considers hyperbolic heat conduction model for biological tissue freezing during cryosurgery with non ideal property of tissue, metabolism and blood perfusion. Mathematical model is solved numerically using finite difference method to obtain temperature distribution and phase change interfaces in tissue during freezing. The effects of phase lag of heat flux in hyperbolic bio-heat model on freezing process are studied. Comparative study of parabolic and hyperbolic bio-heat models is also made here.
Interaction among n Parallel Dislocations in One-Dimensional Hexagonal Quasicrystals
Authors: Liu Guan Ting , Yang Li Ying
Published: July 2015

By means of analytic function theory, the problems of interaction amongparallel dislocations in one-dimensional hexagonal quasicrystals are investigated. The interaction force of parallel dislocations in the material is obtained in forms of complex variable function firstly, which is the versions of well-known Peach-Koehler formula in one-dimensional hexagonal quasicrystals on parallel dislocations. These results are development of the corresponding parts of quasicrystals. Meanwhile, in this paper, we firstly give the equivalent action point of parallel dislocations in one-dimensional hexagonal quasicrystals, which be of important reference value to researching the interaction problems of many dislocations in fracture mechanics of quasicrystals.
New Insights on the Morphology of Nanocomposite Prepared by In Situ Emulsion Polymerization
Authors: de Macêdo Neto José Costa , Neto João Evangelista , do Nascimento Nayra Reis , Contant Sheila , Lona Liliane Maria Ferrareso
Published: July 2015

In order to better understand the morphology and properties of polymer nanocomposites it is necessary to conduct their characterization by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). This work shows a technique through which the nanocomposite powder is mixed with a resin, and after cured, thin sections can be obtained by ultramicrotomy. Another technique presented in this work deals with the observation of clay powder in solution. In this work High Resolution Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) was used to obtain images of the nanocomposites and clay. Images with a high level of details were showed. Through the use of such techniques, it was possible to observe two types of clay morphology in polymer matrix and its distribution. The dimensions and hexagonal layers of the natural clay used as nanofiller for the nanocomposite were also observed. The X-ray Diffraction (XRD) was used to investigate the kaolinite and nanocomposite.
Development for a Hot-Water Heating System Using Biogas Energy in the Pig Farm
Authors: Lien Cheng Chang , Lin Jeng Liang , Lei Perng Kwei
Published: July 2015

A water heating system which utilized biogas energy as a heat source in farrowing house of pig farm was developed in this study. The hot water which was heated by the biogas-burners flowed through the delivery pipeline to heat the metal panel made of aluminum alloy in the piglet’s incubator. The ambient air temperature in the piglets incubator could be raised by way of the thermal radiation of the aluminum panel and then kept the piglets warm. The simulation tests of the hot-water heating system was aimed to find out the reference conditions of the field tests by measuring the temperature of the hot water under different flow rate of the hot water and investigating the air temperature change rate in piglets incubator. The results of simulation tests showed that the ambient air temperature of the piglets incubator can achieve above 28 °C within 30 minutes in the conditions of 90 °C hot water and 45.3 L/min water flow rate. The influence of flow rate to the ambient air temperature in the piglet’s incubator was not significant. The results of the field tests obtained that the heating panel surface temperature increased significantly with the rising hot water temperature. Under the condition of 85 °C hot water and 45.3 L/min flow rate, the raised air temperature was 5.2 °C within 25 minutes in the piglets incubator where 13-day-age eight piglets stayed. This hot-water heating system can switch by hand to the electric-auxiliary heating device when there is no enough biogas to use. The hot-water heating system can achieve the purpose of saving electric energy and reducing the emissions of the greenhouse gas. It is feasible to operate and adjust the suitable temperature for the growth environment of piglets.
A Preliminary Study of DXA and QCT Derived Femur Cross-Section Stiffness
Authors: Luo Yun Hua , Yang Hui Juan , Targownik Laura , Goertzen Andrew , Leslie William D.
Published: July 2015

Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and quantitative computed tomography (QCT) are the two clinic imaging modalities available for examining bone quality. However, there is a dilemma in their selection. DXA uses a lower and safer X-ray dosage, but the produced image is two-dimensional, the information of bone spatial geometry and heterogeneous material distribution required for evaluating bone quality is missing; On the other hand, although QCT is able to capture all the required information, it has to use amuch higher X-ray dosage that may be a potentialhealth concern. Femur cross-section stiffness is an important parameter forassessing bone quality. Although itcan be determined from both DXA and QCT image, it is best computed from QCT for the reason mentioned in the above. In this study, we attempted to establish the ‘equivalence’ between DXA and QCT derived femur cross-section stiffness. If it is successful, DXA can be used in replacement of QCT in assessing bone quality. The study results showed that there indeed exist strong correlations between DXA and QCT derived femur stiffness, but they are not equivalent to each other.
Development of a Knowledge Management System for the Automobile Industry Based on CAPP
Authors: Sun Jia Kun , Qiu Hui Hui , Yang Chao Ying
Published: July 2015

Process planning is the key sector for automobile industry enterprises to shorten product development cycle. By studying the expression method of process information and standardized description method of process knowledge based on MBD, the process knowledge base is established with the uniform representation model as the core, on this basis, the knowledge embedding method oriented to process planning task, modeling method of process planning wizard and process planning navigation technology is studied, the maintenance and application platform of the process knowledge for the automobile industry is established, and integrated with the existing CAPP system, to realize the whole-process management of processes knowledge, so as to provide the support for the optimization and improvement of the manufacturing process.
Thermodynamics of Iron Metallothermy
Authors: Cojocaru Mihai , Branzei Mihai , Coman Tudor Adrian
Published: July 2015

Besides other possible applications, the thermitic compositions based on iron oxides are meant to the achieving of the permanent joints of the railroad tracks. In addition to the iron oxides, the thermitic kit include also the reducing agent – aluminum powder, a carbon source to adjust the percent of this element in the obtained steel and a flux with a view to allow the steel composition and temperature control. The metallothermic process efficiency is given by strictness in the selection of ratio of the thermitic components and mainly in that of the iron oxides types. Their correct dosage makes possible the estimation and rigorous control of the thermal effect of reactions. In this work, using thermodynamic calculations, is analyzed and quantified the development of the thermal effect of the metallothermic reduction reactions of iron oxides depending on the iron oxides proportions in the thermitic composition.
Thermal Shock Influence on some Abrasive Wear Resistant Nickel and Cobalt Complex Alloy’s Microstructure and Properties
Authors: Dumitrescu Ruxandra , Gherghescu Ioana , Ciucă Sorin
Published: July 2015

The present paper shows the experimental results obtained on two complex alloys Co-Cr-W-C-Fe-Ni-Si-Mn-Mo and Ni-Cr-Fe-B-Si-C-Co alloys deposited on copper support by welding (TIG). Well - known for their excellent abrasive wear, corrosion and high temperature erosion resistance, these materials were chosen as protective solutions for some highly mechanically and thermally stressed devices, namely the blast tuyeres of blast furnaces. A testing method which simulates as near as possible the real working conditions is the quick thermal shock, consisting in heating at the chosen testing temperature followed by cooling in cool air spray, for 25 cycles. Testing parameters were set according to the blast tuyere device working conditions. In this paper, the coatings microstructure’s comparative changes consequently to quick thermal shock were monitoring, because this affect the device lifetime and mechanical characteristics. The untested samples as well as on quick thermal shocked ones was investigated using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS).
Relationship between Biomaterials Structure Used in Hernia Mesh Fixation and Chronic Infection
Authors: Mavrodin Carmen Iuliana , Antoniac Vasile Iulian , Pariza George
Published: July 2015

Broad introduction and development of polymeric materials in abdominal hernia surgery led to the emergence and identification of secondary complications due to interaction between prosthetic material and human tissue. Whether identification of these reactions has led to the placement instructions of the prostheses into the wall structures of adbomen, there is no clear rule on fixation materials of these prosthesis; they generally follow the recommendations of the prosthesis materials.There are some situations in which the faulty choice of fixing materials can compromise such surgery, followed by chronic septic complications and negative effect on quality of life of these patients and increased risk of recurrence.The choice of fixing materials considering the structural characteristics of polymeric threads can prevent chronic suppuration secondary to this type of surgery.
Improvement of the Magnetic Properties of Silicon Iron Alloys through Laser Irradiation and Thermal Treatments
Authors: Manescu Paltanea Veronica , Paltanea Gheorghe , Gavrila Horia , Butu Mihai , Popovici Dorina
Published: July 2015

We report an investigation on the improvement of magnetic properties in crystalline silicon iron alloys. It was studied the influence of three thermal treatments on the energy losses of non-oriented silicon iron (NO FeSi) sheets, M800-65A industrial grade, at two peak magnetic polarizations 0.5 T and 1 T. First treatment was done at 200 °C for 60 minutes, the second treatment at 550 °C for 30 minutes and the third treatment at 700 °C for 10 minutes. In the case of grain-oriented silicon iron (GO FeSi) sheets, 30Z140 industrial grade, was analyzed the influence of laser scratching on the magnetic properties at peak magnetic polarization 0.25 T. In the case of both steel grades is presented the reduction of the hysteresis, classical and excess losses, that occur after the applied treatments, using the concept of energy loss separation.
Advanced Materials with Photocatalytic Properties and Magnetic Core for Environmental Applications
Authors: Predescu Andra , Matei Ecaterina , Predescu Andrei , Predescu Cristian , Covaliu Cristina , Trusca Roxana
Published: July 2015

The paper had as purpose the fabrication and characterization of magnetic nanoparticles covered with TiO2 for applications in environmental field. The research consisted in investigating the properties of magnetic iron nanooxides, synthesized from ferric and ferrous chloride and then covered with TiO2, with minimum costs and high efficiency in industrial wastewater treatment. The iron nanoparticles were obtained by co-precipitation method and the titan dioxide was obtained by sol-gel method. After covering the nanoparticles with TiO2, the samples were characterized by X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Preparation and Characterization of Conductive Polymer Nanocomposites Based on Ethylene–Vinylacetate Copolymer (EVA) Reinforced with Expanded and Unexpanded Graphite
Authors: Tavman Ismail H.
Published: July 2015

Recently polymer nanocomposites are used more and more frequently in industry due to the fact that the properties of the polymers can be altered to the specific requirements by the addition of particles and fibers of different properties, shapes. Polymers are poor thermal and electrical conductors, conductive fillers such as metallic powders, carbon black, graphite, are usually incorporated into polymer matrix to produce conducting composites. In this study composites were prepared using ethylenevinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer as matrix filled with two kinds of reinforcement graphite materials: untreated natural graphite (UG) and expanded graphite (EG). Composite samples up to 29.3 % graphite particle volumetric concentrations (50 % mass concentration) were prepared by the melt mixing process in a Brabender Plasticorder. Upon mixing, the EG particles originally 5μm to 6μm in size, exfoliates in the form of nanosheets having a few nanometer thickness; they have very big surface areas with high aspect ratio ranging between 20 and 250, as evidenced by TEM micrographs. From the experimental results it was deduced that the electrical conductivity was not only a function of filler concentration, but also strongly dependent on the graphite structure. The percolation concentration of the filler was found to be (15 to 17) vol% for micro-sized natural graphite, whereas the percolation concentration of the filler in nanocomposites filled with expanded graphite was much lower, about (5 to 6) vol%. The electrical conductivity of nanocomposites was also much higher than the electrical conductivity of composites filled with micro-sized filler at similar concentrations. Similarly, the values of the thermal diffusivity for the nanocomposites, EG-filled EVA, were significantly higher than the thermal diffusivity of the composites filled with micro-sized filler, UG-filled EVA, at similar concentrations. The effect of thermal cycling on the tensile behavior of EVA composites containing 4% and 15% of UG by mass and 6% and 15% of EG by mass were subjected to thermal cycling between-25 to +60 °C. Tension tests were conducted after thermal cycling for 50 and 100 cycles. Tensile strength remained practically unchanged after thermal cycling, while the Young modulus increased appreciably with the number of thermal cycle.
Characterization of Doped Titanium Oxide Varistor Powder Processed with Latex Binder
Authors: Begum Shahida , Rasyada Ida , Panimeerselvam Arvin
Published: July 2015

In the processing of semiconducting electro ceramic materials the use of appropriate binder can lead to improve characteristics of powder which will reduce density gradient in the green body during compaction. The binder system is anticipated to have an influence on the grain growth and microstructure which in turn affect the electrical performance. To investigate this phenomenon, TiO2 powder doped with tungsten oxide (WO3), silicon oxide (SiO2) and bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) was processed with and without various percent of latex binder. The prepared samples were characterized by evaluating the physical properties like green density, fired density, axial and radial shrinkage, micro hardness and compressive strength. It was observed that TiO2 processed with latex binder exhibited higher green density and less axial and radial shrinkage compared to powder processed without binder. However, the binder level did not have any significant influence on the other characteristics of varistor discs. SEM analysis indicated that the average grain size was also influenced by the percent of binder used and but the higher average grain size was obtained for discs without any binder.
Wear Characteristics of Multiple Particle Size Silicon Carbide Reinforced Aluminium Composite
Authors: Abdulmumin Adebisi Adetayo , Maleque Md Abdul , Ali Mohammad Yeakub
Published: July 2015

Metal matrix composites are attractive light weight materials with potential attributes to substitute automotive materials without sacrifing performance. This present study aims to investigate the wear characteristics of aluminium (Al) 6061 reinforced with silicon carbide particles (SiCp) of three (3) different particle sizes. The reinforcement consist of coarse particle (80μm), intermediate (40μm) and fine particles (15μm) particle sizes with 10, 5, 5 wt% respectively. The composite was fabricated using the stir casting technique due to its simplicity and cost effectiveness. The wear test was conducted using the pin on disc tribo-system with steel disc counter surface. The outcome of this study reveals that the MPS-SiC AMC exhibit better wear and frictional characteristics for brake rotor application. The coarse particles have better contribution to wear resistance because the possibility of particle pullout from the matrix for both intermediate and fine particles is high due to small surface contact area. However, the intermediate and fine particle compensates for multiple shielding effect for the base matrix thus influences the impact energy and mechanical strength of the composite. The friction coefficient (0.32 - 0.46) of the MPS-SiC AMC falls within the acceptable deviation band for automotive brake rotor application
Effect of Copper Concentration on the Optical Properties of Cu2Zn0.8Cd0.2SnS4 Pentrary Alloy Nanostructures
Authors: Ibraheam A.S. , Al-Douri Y. , Hashim U.
Published: July 2015

Cu2Zn0.2Cd0.8SnS4pentrary alloy nanostructures deposited at different molarity copper 0.3, 0. 5, 0. 7 and 0.9 M were grown by sol-gel method on glass substrate. The optical absorption indicates that the band gap of Cu2Zn0.2Cd0.8SnS4nanostructures decreases linearly from 1.80 eV (0.3M 0) to 1.60 eV (0.9M). The transmittance value is in the range 63-49% depending on the Cu content.
The Effects of Coupling Agent on the Flame Retardant Properties of PP/ATH Nanocomposites
Authors: Sabaruddin Fatimah A’thiyah , Samat Noorasikin , Habibah A.I.H Dayang
Published: July 2015

It is known that polymeric materials are easily to get on fire due to their chemical structures. Thus the flame retardant material such as aluminium hydroxide (ATH) is used to improve the flame retardancy property of polymers. Polypropylene (PP) with various amount of nanosized ATH particles of (5, 10, 20, 30, 40 wt%) were compounded with an extruder machine. The effects of two different type of coupling agent (3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APS) and Maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP)) on the flame retardant properties were compared. All samples were characterized with two flame tests; the limiting oxygen index (LOI) and UL94 horizontal burning test (UL94 HB). It is found that both tests showed improvement on the flame resistance properties of the nanocomposites, mainly at high ATH loadings. Type of coupling agents affects the flame retardancy properties of PP/ATH nanocomposites.
Design and Development of a Solar Based Air Conditioning Blower System for Vehicle
Authors: Abdullah Muhammad Amirul , Ahmad Salmiah , Toha Siti Fauziah
Published: July 2015

A solar based air conditioning blower model of vehicle has been presented together with the development of its intelligent controller in this report. The model is dependent on its own battery that is recharged by the energy collected from solar panel system. An automatic variable speed blower is introduced into the system. Vehicle cabin temperature is controlled by varying the blower speed. The intelligent controller is embedded with fuzzy logic strategy. A control algorithm is obtained with a design of the model and the system. The results satisfied the project objectives. The system is able to run using a lead acid battery and a solar panel with power consumption of 98.4 W. The fuzzy logic controller performed well with a percentage error less than 1.64%.
Finite Element Simulation of Electro-Mechanical Impedance Technique
Authors: Tahmasebpour Kamyar , Hrairi Meftah , Dawood Mohd Sultan I.S.
Published: July 2015

Electro-mechanical impedance method is emerging as an important and powerful technique for structural health monitoring (SHM). Active elements of the technique are Piezoelectric Wafer Active Sensor (PWAS) bonded on the structure. Modeling and simulation of PWAS and host structure play an important role in the SHM applications with PWAS. For decades finite element method has been extensively applied in the analysis of piezoelectric materials and structures. In this paper, piezoelectric element and a host metallic structure were modeled using Ansys finite element software to find the Electromechanical Impedance (EMI) according to the signal frequency. After that, the EMI signature of the beam was found for different position of the PWAS patch. The study shows that sensor position may directly control the EMI signature.
Development of Design Structure Matrix of Product Architecture Case Study: Multi Purpose CNC Router
Authors: Hilmy Irfan , Adesta Erry Yulian T. , binti Samsul Bahrim Nur’atiyah Najwa , binti Azhar Aini Nurrasyidah , binti Mohd Shahar Siti Fatimah
Published: July 2015

In developing any engineering product, it is crucial to develop product architecture of the system. An engineering team who responsible in developing different module should work together in order to obtain product architecture as a blueprint of the project. It is common to breakdown system or product into smaller elements as follows: subsystems, modules and component and define the interactions between components and subsystems. In order to achieve the performance of the system as a whole, these elements must be integrated to work together. One of the method to develop product architecture is Design Structure Matrix (DSM). The use of DSM for Development of Product architecture with case study a CNC router platform is presented. Using DSM, order of product development can be optimized and any form of wastes can be eliminated in the design stage.
Surface Roughness in Drilled Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) Composite Using Diamond Coated Ball-Nose Drills
Authors: Konneh Mohamed , Izman Sudin , Sidek Atiah Abdullah , Salahuddin Salleh Muhammad
Published: July 2015

This paper discusses an experimental investigation into the influence of machining parameters on surface roughness when drilling CFRP using 4 mm-diameter 2-fluted carbide drills coated with diamond. The experimental plan employed in this study is based on Central Composite Design technique, established considering drilling with prefixed cutting parameters in a locally prepared Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) composite material by hand lay-up technique using diamond coated carbide twist drills. A model using multiple regression analysis between rotational speed and feed rate with the surface roughness (Ra) of the fiber reinforced laminates has been predicted for the machining conditions investigated. It has been found that the lowest surface roughness Ra (0.910 μm) was generated at rotational speed, 5062 rpm and feed rate, 180 mm/min; and the highest surface roughness Ra (4.630 μm) generated at a rotational speed of 537 rpm and feed rate of 180 mm/min.
Tool Wear during Milling Laminated Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic
Authors: Khairusshima M.K. Nor , Amin A.K.M. , Che Hassan C.H. , Jaharah A.G.
Published: July 2015

Carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) is a composite which has the best strength to weight ratio among the construction materials. It becomes valuable as the demand for this composite has increased dramatically especially in automobile and aerospace industry. Cutting speed of 160–194 m/min and a feed rate of 0.14–0.225 mm/tooth on solid uncoated carbide during the milling process were discussed. It is observed that the wear area is found polished and shining which is due to the abrasive nature of the carbon. The wear region is found high at higher cutting speeds and feed rates. The reduction of tool life is 40%, 30% and 14% as the cutting speed, feed rate increase and depth of cut increased respectively.
Seasonal PrEP for partners of migrant miners in southern Mozambique: a highly focused PrEP intervention
Authors: Cremin Ide , Morales Fernando , Jewell Britta L , O'Reilly Kevin R , Hallett Timothy B
Published: July 2015

Introduction

To be used most effectively, pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) should be prioritized to those at high risk of acquisition and would ideally be aligned with time periods of increased exposure. Identifying such time periods is not always straightforward, however. Gaza Province in southern Mozambique is characterized by high levels of HIV transmission and circular labour migration to mines in South Africa. A strong seasonal pattern in births is observable, reflecting an increase in conception in December. Given the potential for increased HIV transmission between miners returning in December and their partners in Gaza Province, PrEP use by the latter would be a useful means of HIV prevention, especially for couples who wish to conceive.

Methods

A mathematical model was used to represent population‐level adult heterosexual HIV transmission in Gaza Province. Increased HIV acquisition among partners of miners in December, coinciding with the miners’ return from South Africa, is represented. In addition to a PrEP intervention, the scale‐up of treatment and recent scale‐up of male circumcision that have occurred in Gaza are represented.

Results

Providing time‐limited PrEP to the partners of migrant miners, as opposed to providing PrEP all year, would improve the cost per infection averted by 7.5‐fold. For the cost per infection averted to be below US$3000, at least 85% of PrEP users would need to be good adherers and PrEP would need to be cheaper than US$115 per person per year. Uncertainty regarding incidence of HIV transmission among partners of miners each year in December has a strong influence on estimates of cost per infection averted.

Conclusions

Providing time‐limited PrEP to partners of migrant miners in Gaza Province during periods of increased exposure would be a novel strategy for providing PrEP. This strategy would allow for a better prioritized intervention, with the potential to improve the efficiency of a PrEP intervention considerably, as well as providing important reproductive health benefits.
Pre‐exposure prophylaxis in Southern Africa: feasible or not?
Authors: Venter Willem Daniel François , Cowan Frances , Black Vivian , Rebe Kevin , Bekker Linda‐Gail
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Southern and Eastern Africa bear the brunt of the AIDS epidemic, and current prevention interventions remain inadequate. Antiretroviral‐based pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is gaining momentum as an effective prevention intervention.

Discussion

Discussions have been started on how this strategy could be employed in Africa such that the populations most in need can be reached urgently for the greatest impact. This requires the selection of specific risk groups and service environments in which PrEP can be distributed safely and cost effectively while being mindful of any ethical issues.

Conclusions

Given the need for an integrated public health approach to this, a number of potential populations and opportunities for PrEP distribution exist and are discussed in this commentary.
Rapid advance of two mountain glaciers in response to mine‐related debris loading
Authors: Jamieson Stewart S. R. , Ewertowski Marek W. , Evans David J. A.
Published: July 2015

Rapid glacier advance is known to occur by a range of mechanisms. However, although large‐scale debris loading has been proposed as a process for causing rapid terminus advance, it has rarely been observed. We use satellite remote sensing data to observe accelerated glacier terminus advance in response to massive supraglacial loading on two glaciers in Kyrgyzstan. Over a 15 year period, mining activity has led to the dumping of spoil of up to 180 m thick on large parts of these valley glaciers. We find that the termini of these glaciers advance by 1.2 and 3.2 km, respectively, at a rate of up to 350 m yr−1. Our analysis suggests that although enhanced basal sliding could be an important process, massive supraglacial loads have also caused enhanced internal ice deformation that would account for most, or all, of the glacier terminus advance. In addition, narrowing of the glacier valley and mining and dumping of ice alter the mass balance and flow regime of the glaciers. Although the scale of supraglacial loading is massive, this full‐scale experiment provides insight into glacier flow acceleration response where small valley glaciers are impacted by very large volumes of landslide debris.
Pain, Fatigue, and Psychological Impact on Health‐Related Quality of Life in Childhood‐Onset Lupus
Authors: Jones Jordan T. , Cunningham Natoshia , Kashikar‐Zuck SusmitA , Brunner Hermine I.
Published: July 2015

Objective

To evaluate pain, fatigue, and psychological functioning of childhood‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and examine how these factors impact health‐related quality of life (HRQOL).

Methods

At a tertiary rheumatology clinic, 60 childhood‐onset SLE patients completed the following: a visual analog scale (VAS) of pain intensity (0–10), the Pediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL) multidimensional fatigue scale, Pain Coping Questionnaire, Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), Children's Depression Inventory I (CDI‐I), the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED) questionnaire, and the PedsQL generic core (GC) scale and rheumatology module (RM). Sociodemographics and multiple disease activity indicators were recorded.

Results

Fatigue was present in 65% of the patients. Clinically relevant pain (pain‐VAS >3), anxiety (SCARED ≥25), and depressive symptoms (CDI‐I >12) were observed in 40%, 37%, and 30% of the patients, respectively; 22% had high catastrophizing (PCS ≥26). On average, the PedsQL‐GC and ‐RM scores for childhood‐onset SLE were lower than in healthy norms. Reduced PedsQL‐GC and ‐RM scores were highly correlated with greater levels of fatigue, anxiety, and depressive symptoms (Pearson's r > 0.65), but had weak correlation with disease activity (Pearson's r < 0.25). Regression analysis demonstrated HRQOL was most impacted by fatigue, pain, and anxiety when evaluating all factors concurrently (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Childhood‐onset SLE is associated with decreased HRQOL, and psychological aspects of health contribute substantially to low HRQOL, whereas measures of childhood‐onset SLE activity seem less relevant. Fatigue, pain, mood, and anxiety symptoms are present in a large subgroup of patients and need medical attention to achieve optimal health outcomes.
Effect of ship tilting and motion on amine absorber with structured‐packing for CO2 removal from natural gas
Authors: Pham Dung Anh , Lim Young‐Il , Jee Hyunwoo , Ahn Euisub , Jung Yongwon
Published: July 2015

A gas‐liquid Eulerian porous media computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model was developed for an absorber with structured packing to remove CO2 from natural gas by mono‐ethanol‐amine (MEA). The three‐dimensional geometry of the amine absorber with Mellapak 500.X was constructed to investigate the effect of the tilting and motion experienced on ships and barges for offshore plants. The momentum equation included porous resistance, gas‐liquid momentum exchange, and liquid dispersion to replace structured‐packing by porous media. The mass equation involved mass transfer of CO2 gas into MEA solution, and one chemical reaction. Parameters of the CFD model were adjusted to fit experimental data measured in the CO2‐MEA system. As the tilting angle increased, the liquid holdup and effective interfacial area decreased and CO2 removal efficiency was lowered. The uniformity of liquid holdup deteriorated by 10% for a 3° static tilting, and a rolling motion with 4.5° amplitude and 12 s period, respectively. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 4412–4425, 2015
Transparente Elektroden aus Nanokristalltinten für flexible Bauelemente
Authors: Song Jizhong , Zeng Haibo
Published: July 2015

Transparente Elektroden (TEs) sind eine wichtige Komponente vieler moderner elektronischer und optoelektronischer Bauelemente. Klassische TEs werden jedoch den Entwicklungsanforderungen an smarte Bauelemente, wie z. B. elektronische Häute, tragbare Elektronik, Robotorhäute, flexible und dehnbare Displays und Solarzellen, oftmals nicht gerecht. Aus nanokristallinen (NC) Tinten gedruckte TEs sind kostengünstig, mit Herstellungsverfahren in Lösung kompatibel und besitzen großes Potential für flexible, dehnbare und tragbare Geräte. Wir geben hier einen Überblick über tintenbasierte Elektroden aus transparenten leitfähigen Oxiden, metallischen Nanodrähten, Graphen und Kohlenstoffnanoröhren sowie deren Anwendungen in lösungsbasierten flexiblen und dehnbaren Bauelementen.
Ein funktionelles Strukturmodell für die 1‐Aminocyclopropan‐ 1‐carbonsäure‐Oxidase
Authors: Sallmann Madleen , Oldenburg Fabio , Braun Beatrice , Réglier Marius , Simaan A. Jalila , Limberg Christian
Published: July 2015

Das bislang realistischste niedermolekulare Analogon für die 1‐Aminocyclopropan‐1‐carbonsäure‐Oxidase (ACCO) wird beschrieben. Das aktive Zentrum der ACCO, bestehend aus einer 2‐His‐1‐Carboxylateisen(II)‐Spezies, wurde durch eine Tp‐Eisen‐Einheit nachgeahmt, welche in der Lage ist, ACC zu binden. Der resultierende Komplex [TpMe,PhFeACC] (1) stellt entsprechend einer für das Nickelderivat durchgeführten Röntgenstrukturanalyse ein hervorragendes Strukturmodell dar, da es, wie für das Enzym vorgeschlagen, das ACC zweizähnig koordiniert und eine freie Koordinationsstelle verbleibt. Letztere ermöglichte erstmalig auch die Nachahmung der Funktion: 1 ist der erste bekannte ACC‐Komplex, der in der Reaktion mit Sauerstoff Ethylen produziert. Da als Teil des katalytischen Zyklus unter anderem ein FeOOH‐Intermediat vorgeschlagen worden war, wurde auch H2O2 als Oxidationsmittel geprüft. Tatsächlich konnte eine noch schnellere Ethylen‐Entwicklung mit einer Ausbeute von 65 % nachgewiesen werden.
Palladium nanoparticles embedded in improved mesoporous silica: a pH‐triggered phase transfer catalyst for Sonogashira reaction
Authors: Zhao Xiaohua , Liu Xiang , Zhu Yaoqin , Lu Ming
Published: July 2015

An efficient and reusable pH‐responsive mesoporous silica nanocomposite shuttle‐supported palladium catalyst was synthesized, which efficiently promotes the Sonogashira reaction in water‐based biphasic systems. This catalyst of shell‐embedded palladium nanoparticles is highly dispersed in organic phase in a pH range from 9 to 10 just like a homogeneous catalyst, and can be separated and reused like a heterogeneous one by adjusting the pH value of the aqueous medium. In addition, Sonogashira reactions can be performed without a copper co‐catalyst. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Low‐Grade Inflammation in Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis: Prognostic Value of Inflammatory Plasma Lipids and Peripheral Blood Leukocyte Biomarkers
Authors: Attur Mukundan , Krasnokutsky Svetlana , Statnikov Alexander , Samuels Jonathan , Li Zhiguo , Friese Olga , Hellio Le Graverand‐Gastineau Marie‐Pierre , Rybak Leon , Kraus Virginia B. , Jordan Joanne M. , Aliferis Constantin F. , Abramson Steven B.
Published: July 2015

Objective

Inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), are produced by osteoarthritic (OA) joint tissue, where they may contribute to disease pathogenesis. We undertook the present study to examine whether inflammation, evidenced in plasma and peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs), reflects the presence, progression, or specific symptoms of symptomatic knee OA.

Methods

Patients with symptomatic knee OA were enrolled in a 24‐month prospective study of radiographic progression. Standardized knee radiographs were obtained at baseline and 24 months. At baseline, levels of the plasma lipids PGE2 and 15‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (15‐HETE) were measured, and transcriptome analysis of PBLs was performed by microarray and quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Baseline PGE2 synthase (PGES) levels determined by PBL microarray gene expression and plasma PGE2 levels distinguished patients with symptomatic knee OA from non‐OA controls (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] 0.87 and 0.89, respectively, P < 0.0001). Baseline plasma 15‐HETE levels were significantly elevated in patients with symptomatic knee OA versus non‐OA controls (P < 0.0195). In the 146 patients who completed the 24‐month study, elevated baseline expression of IL‐1β, tumor necrosis factor α, and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2) messenger RNA in PBLs predicted higher risk of radiographic progression as evidenced by joint space narrowing (JSN). In a multivariate model, AUC point estimates of models containing COX‐2 in combination with demographic traits overlapped the confidence interval of the base model in 2 of the 3 JSN outcome measures (JSN >0.0 mm, JSN >0.2 mm, and JSN >0.5 mm; AUC 0.62–0.67).

Conclusion

The inflammatory plasma lipid biomarkers PGE2 and 15‐HETE identify patients with symptomatic knee OA, and the PBL inflammatory transcriptome identifies a subset of patients with symptomatic knee OA who are at increased risk of radiographic progression. These findings may reflect low‐grade inflammation in OA and may be useful as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in clinical development of disease‐modifying OA drugs.
Synthesis and photophysical properties of 1,2‐diphenylindolizine derivatives: fluorescent blue‐emitting materials for organic light‐emitting device
Authors: Song Yeong Ran , Lim Choon Woo , Kim Tae Woo
Published: July 2015

New blue‐emitting materials based on 1,2‐diphenylindolizine were designed and synthesized through a microwave‐assisted Suzuki coupling reaction. The photophysical, electrochemical, and thermal properties of the 1,2‐diphenylindolizine derivatives were investigated using UV–visible and fluorescence spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry. The 1,2‐diphenylindolizine derivatives had band gaps of 3.1–3.4 eV and indicated proper emission of around 450 nm without significant difference between in solution and thin solid film. The indolizine derivatives show an enhanced thermal stability (∆Tm > 100 °C), compared with 1,2‐diphenylindolizine. These results suggest the 1,2‐diphenylindolizine derivatives are suitable for blue‐emitting materials in organic light‐emitting devices. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Normal Eating Is Counter‐Cultural: Embodied Experiences of Eating Disorder Recovery
Authors: LaMarre Andrea , Rice Carla
Published: July 2015

Standards for eating disorder recovery, although they originate in life‐saving methods, may be unattainable for certain individuals. We used narrative thematic analysis to explore the stories of 10 young women in eating disorder recovery. Participants' narratives highlight the complexity and counter‐cultural nature of navigating prescriptions for recovery in a sociocultural context that privileges some bodies and food‐related behaviours over others. Our main themes were materiality of eating disorders recovery, beyond biometrics, embodying counter‐culture, embodying recovery and authenticity/invisibility. Our analysis reveals a biopedagogy of eating disorder recovery, which offers individuals in recovery sets of instructions for how to be healthy that run in opposition to dominant prescriptions for health. These findings help us better understand the lived experience of eating disorder recovery, highlighting difficulties of recovering in a culture that moralizes food and bodies. Further investigating how standards for recovery intersect with dominant discourses for healthy living could help to support individuals in recovery. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evolution of pigment‐dispersing factor neuropeptides in panarthropoda: Insights from onychophora (velvet worms) and tardigrada (water bears)
Authors: Mayer Georg , Hering Lars , Stosch Juliane M. , Stevenson Paul A. , Dircksen Heinrich
Published: July 2015

Pigment‐dispersing factor (PDF) denotes a conserved family of homologous neuropeptides present in several invertebrate groups, including mollusks, nematodes, insects, and crustaceans (referred to here as pigment‐dispersing hormone [PDH]). With regard to their encoding genes (pdf, pdh), insects possess only one, nematodes two, and decapod crustaceans up to three, but their phylogenetic relationship is unknown. To shed light on the origin and diversification of pdf/pdh homologs in Panarthropoda (Onychophora + Tardigrada + Arthropoda) and other molting animals (Ecdysozoa), we analyzed the transcriptomes of five distantly related onychophorans and a representative tardigrade and searched for putative pdf homologs in publically available genomes of other protostomes. This revealed only one pdf homolog in several mollusk and annelid species; two in Onychophora, Priapulida, and Nematoda; and three in Tardigrada. Phylogenetic analyses suggest that the last common ancestor of Panarthropoda possessed two pdf homologs, one of which was lost in the arthropod or arthropod/tardigrade lineage, followed by subsequent duplications of the remaining homolog in some taxa. Immunolocalization of PDF‐like peptides in six onychophoran species, by using a broadly reactive antibody that recognizes PDF/PDH peptides in numerous species, revealed an elaborate system of neurons and fibers in their central and peripheral nervous systems. Large varicose projections in the heart suggest that the PDF neuropeptides functioned as both circulating hormones and locally released transmitters in the last common ancestor of Onychophora and Arthropoda. The lack of PDF‐like‐immunoreactive somata associated with the onychophoran optic ganglion conforms to the hypothesis that onychophoran eyes are homologous to the arthropod median ocelli. J. Comp. Neurol. 523:1865–1885, 2015 © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.