bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Even hotter hotspot: description of seven new species of many-plumed moths (Lepidoptera, Alucitidae) from Mount Cameroon
Authors: Ustjuzhanin Peter , Kovtunovich Vasily , Maicher Vincent , Sáfián Szabolcs , Delabye Sylvain , Streltzov Alexander , Tropek Robert
Published: May 2020

Mount Cameroon, SW Cameroon, has already been described as a unique hotspot of the many-plumed moth (Lepidoptera, Alucitidae), with their local diversity unrivalled in the entire Afrotropics. We confirm its importance with description of seven new species: Alucita bakweri Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita jana Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita bakingili Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita tatjana Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita zuza Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita deja Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., and Alucita bokwango Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov. These descriptions have raised the known local diversity of many-plumed moth species on Mount Cameroon to 22, i.e., over a quarter of the known Afrotropical biodiversity of this group. This study also emphasises the great conservation importance of the area.
Two new cyclophoroid species from Hubei, China, with proposal of a new genus (Gastropoda, Caenogastropoda, Diplommatinidae and Alycaeidae)
Authors: Chen Zhe-Yu , Wu Min
Published: May 2020

Two new species, Sinoarinia feii Chen, gen. et sp. nov. and Pincerna vallis Chen & Wu, sp. nov., are described from western Hubei, China. The new genus Sinoarinia Chen & Wu, gen. nov. is established based on the strongly constricted penultimate whorl and the ascending last whorl. The Vietnamese species Pincerna costulosa (Bavay & Dautzenberg) is newly reported from Yunnan, China. For comparison, photographs of the shells of closely related species are provided. A key to the known species of Sinoariniagen. nov. is included.
Image edge detection based on singular value feature vector and gradient operator
Authors: Tang Jiali ,   College of Computer Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou 213001, China, Wang Yan , Huang Chenrong , Liu Huangxiaolie , Al-Nabhan Najla ,   School of Foreign Languages, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou 213001, China,   School of Computer Engineering, Nanjing Institute of Technology, Nanjing 211167, China,   Nanjing Vivo Software Technology Co., Ltd., Nanjing 211106, China,   Department of Computer Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11362, Saudi Arabia
Published: May 2020

This paper presents an edge detection algorithm based on singular value eigenvector and gradient operator. In the proposed algorithm, the singular values of image blocks are first calculated, and the Sobel gradient template is extended to eight other directions. Then the gradient values of image pixels are determined according to the stability of the singular values of image blocks. The determination of gradient threshold is considered from both global and local aspects. After calculating the global and local gradient thresholds of the original image, the gradient threshold of the whole image is determined by weighting function. Then the edge pixels of the image are filtered according to the gradient threshold, and the edge information image of the original image is obtained. The experimental data show that the proposed algorithm can resist a certain degree of noise interference, and the accuracy and efficiency of edge extraction are better than other similar algorithms.
Electronic Participation in a Comparative Perspective
Authors: Tavares Antonio F. , Martins João , Lameiras Mariana
Published: May 2020

Electronic participation can play a crucial role in building broader public involvement in decision-making and public policy to bring about more inclusive societies. Prior empirical analyses have neglected the fact that political institutions are not only affecting the expansion of digital government, but also often interact with more structural conditions to constrain or incentivize the adoption and expansion of e-participation. This research analyses the role of institutional factors in encouraging or constraining e-participation across countries. Fractional regression models are employed to analyze panel data (2008-2018) from the United Nations Member States scores in the E-Participation Index (EPI) developed by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA). The results indicate that the quality of democratic institutions, freedom of the press, and government effectiveness are all relevant predictors of a higher performance in e-participation. Policy implications are drawn in line with the 2030 UN Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals.
Smart Place Making Through Digital Communication and Citizen Engagement
Authors: Muñoz de Luna Angel Bartolomé , Kolotouchkina Olga
Published: May 2020

The disruptive growth of new information technologies is transforming the dynamics of citizen communication and engagement in the urban context. In order to create new, smart, inclusive, and transparent urban environments, the city governments of London and Madrid have implemented a series of innovative digital applications and citizen communication channels. Through a case study approach, this research assesses the best practices in the field of digital communication and citizen engagement implemented by London and Madrid, with a particular focus on the profile, content, and functions of these new channels. The results of this research are intended to identify relevant new dynamics of interaction and value co-creation for cities and their residents.
Effectively Incorporating Blogs for the L2 Literacy Development of Teenage Language Learners
Authors: Giannikas Christina Nicole
Published: May 2020

Digital technologies have become an important part of language learning and teaching across the globe at various levels of education. The advances in question have altered texts and tools available to teachers and students and have given practitioners and researchers a new understanding of L2 literacy development. More specifically, the successful attempts of integrating the blogosphere in language education suggest the improvement of L2 writing. Through blogging, students are given the opportunity to use the new language they are learning and new technologies to strengthen social bonds and express their thoughts and reflections on the online platform. This chapter elaborates on the use of the blog in teenage learners' L2 literacy in the digital age, and examines the impact that blogs have on the authorship, personal expression, writing fluency, and confidence of the L2 teenage language learner. The chapter also offers a theoretical, practical scope to establish the full perspective of integrating blogs into the language classroom.
Empowering Multilingual Learners Through Critical Liberating Literacy Practices in English-Dominated Speech Communities
Authors: Moya Mario R.
Published: May 2020

This chapter explores the nuances of critical literacy reviewing the influence of the sociocultural context and the critical element that arises from the individuals who negotiate their identities as they interact with others in a variety of settings. The perspective adopted here focuses on multilingual learners as they engage in literacy practices in English, the dominant language, within schooled environments resulting in hybrid productions within a Third Space, which is a metaphorical setting that promotes expansive learning. Such literacy productions consider the lived-in experiences of the individuals and their personal histories as tools for learning with the potential to liberate themselves from the dominant literacy practices. The chapter includes a discussion of the role and status of English to empower non-dominant groups within English-speaking settings.
Communities of Practice Along the Texas-Mexico Border
Authors: Abrego Jesus
Published: May 2020

This chapter focuses on how one university leadership preparation program along the Texas-Mexico border made a deliberate and concerted effort to build a principal pipeline by establishing a local university school partnership with several local school districts along a border that is bilingual, bicultural, and binational. The preparation program focused on realigning to national standards, actively sought out collaborative feedback from district partners on the development of course assessments, the co-design of clinical experiences, establishing accessible in-district program scheduling, course instruction provided by highly qualified faculty, developing and implementing multiple program and course assessments, and established and implemented dispositions.
Social and Strategic Partnership in Marketing Contexts
Authors: Sousa Bruno Barbosa , Magalhães Filipe Sequeira
Published: May 2020

Social and strategic marketing seeks to develop systematic marketing concepts with several approaches to influence behaviours that benefit individuals and society for the greater social good. Social marketing practice is guided by ethical issues. It seeks to integrate approach, best practice, theory, audience, and partnership insight to inform the delivery of competition-sensitive and segmented social change programmes that are effective, efficient, equitable, and sustainable. This case study concerns help2kids as a young and dynamic non-profit organization operating in Africa. The case study consists of reflection and discussion of the several practices, marketing strategies, social entrepreneurship topics, and multiple projects inherent to help2kids. Help2kids strives to allow children the pursuit of a better and more sustainable future. The authors intend to present different social marketing campaigns to promote behavioural change for the benefit of society and the strategies that have been followed to achieve the desired idea or behaviour.
Fraternal Organizations and Mentoring
Authors: Thomas Ursula , Hall Lamarcus J. , Good Tyra , Booker Ansley A. , Carter Ghangis D.
Published: May 2020

The involvement of African American males in the community and in school-based service-learning programs has been an ongoing conversation not only within the African American community but in academia. Often, when we hear of African American males, it is encumbered with negative images and negative associations versus positive ones. The primary push for this case study is to examine the critical nature of mentoring for African American male use within school-based mentoring and community-based mentoring through Black Greek-Letter fraternity. The following case study will examine the mentoring and support initiatives of three fraternities within the Divine Nine Greek-Letter organizations and their specific strategies for engaging youth and developing leadership.
Professional Learning Recommendations for Teachers of Late-Entering Newcomers With Interrupted Formal Education
Authors: Kibler Kristin W. , de Oliveira Luciana C.
Published: May 2020

This chapter reviews the academic literature on late-entering students with interrupted formal education (SIFE), many of whom are refugees or asylum seekers, in order to gain a better understanding of how to serve these students and support their teachers. The literature suggests that school personnel who are serving late-entering SIFE (i.e., arriving in the United States at high school age) require additional support, resources, and on-going professional learning. The purpose of this chapter is to provide recommendations for district-wide professional learning based upon the challenges and promising practices that emerged in the literature review. Although this chapter focuses on the educational context in the United States, the recommendations may apply elsewhere.
The Regional Evaluation on the Vitality of the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in China
Authors: Park Sae Woon , Xue Xingqun , Lee Sunhae , Xu Xinya , Zeng Yuanyu
Published: May 2020

With the development of business ecosystems and the depth of entrepreneurship research, the research based on the ecosystem has been popular. The theory of entrepreneurial ecosystem provides an overall perspective for the research of entrepreneurial activity. However, how to measure the system vitality still remains an unsolved problem. This study chooses diversity, density, and connectivity as the dynamic characteristics to construct the assessment index system of a regional entrepreneurship system. The study also takes the old industrial bases in Northeast China, Liaoning Province as an object. It calculates the vitality score and puts forward some targeted suggestions for improving the vitality of entrepreneurial ecosystems in Liaoning Province.
Innovation and Business Sustainability Among SMEs in Africa
Authors: Takyi Lydia , Naidoo Vannie
Published: May 2020

Many SMEs lack business competitiveness and sustainability. Their potential for growth and expansion is limited, and they are constrained by institutional challenges (such as high-interest rates and rigid regulatory requirements) which impede their creativity, innovativeness and sustainability. Despite the numerous contributions of the sector to the Ghanaian economy, SME internationalisation in Ghana is at the nascent stage and is bedevilled with a gamut of institutional challenges. Studies of the formal and informal institutional effects on indigenous SME internationalisation in the Ghanaian economy are limited. Furthermore, a stylised framework which serves as a model to aid academics and researchers in investigating the impact of the formal institutions (legal and political) and informal institutions (socio-culture) on Ghanaian-owned businesses is under-canvassed in the Ghanaian entrepreneurial eco-system. Hence, this paper suggests a model for institutions and SME internationalisation to boost their innovativeness and business sustainability.
Using Tablets to Collect Breast Cancer Risk Information in an Underserved Population
Authors: Naeim Arash , Xie Zhuoer , Johansen Liliana , Wenger Neil S. , Elashoff David , Petruse Antonia , Rahbar Guita
Published: May 2020

The authors tested the use of tablets to collect breast cancer risk data and compared the approach against paper-based scantrons. The goal was to examine the usability of digital technology for data collection in underserved populations. A total of 340 individuals were randomized to answer a breast health survey via either tablets (170) or paper forms (170). Post questionnaire surveys were conducted to evaluate the usability of tablets. Outcomes included completion time, satisfaction, and the numbers and types of questions raised by patients during the survey. There was no significant difference in questionnaire completion time between two groups (12.5 vs. 12.1 minutes, p = 0.07). The tablet group was more satisfied with the experience (p < 0.001). Low health literacy women spent more time on the questionnaire (p < 0.05). Electronic devices can be utilized to collect breast cancer risk data in underserved, ethnically diverse populations. Future healthcare questionnaire applications should focus on accessibility improvements for these populations.
Corrosion Resistance of Nickel-Based Composite Coatings Reinforced by Spherical Tungsten Carbide
Authors: Fan Li , Chen Hai Yan , Du Hai Liang , Hou Yue , Cheng Qian
Published: May 2020

Nickel-based composite coatings reinforced by spherical tungsten carbide were deposited on 42CrMo alloy steel using plasma transfer arc welding (PTAW) process. Their electrochemical corrosion properties in NaCl solution under atmospheric and high pressure were studied by polarization curve, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The corrosion and erosion resistance of the coatings were also investigated by salt spray corrosion and erosion corrosion tests. The results show that the self-corrosion potential of the composite coatings increased with the increase of tungsten carbide content, and the Cr element in Ni60 sample formed a stable and compact passivation film. Compared with corrosion at atmospheric pressure, the adsorption and penetration of Cl- on the coating surface enhanced due to the increase of Cl- activity under pressure, thereby to weaken the corrosion resistance. The Samples that passivated in salt spray environment, cannot completely hinder the corrosion of the coating, just only to slow down the corrosion. This study can provide theoretical basis for deep-sea oil drilling and production engineering equipment.
Erosion Behavior of PS-PVD Thermal Barrier Coatings and the Effect of Composite Coating (PS-PVD + APS) Thickness
Authors: Chen Wen Long , Wu Hong Jian , Liu Min , Xiao Xiao Ling
Published: May 2020

In this work, feather-column 7YSZ thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) were prepared by plasma spray-physical vapor deposition (PS-PVD). The anti-particle erosion test was carried out at room temperature to study the erosion behavior and failure mechanism of PS-PVD TBCs. The results showed that the particle erosion process of the PS-PVD TBCs experienced three stages of high-rate, medium-rate and slow-rate erosion. In order to improve the particle erosion resistance of the PS-PVD TBCs, different thicknesses of dense-layered coatings were prepared on the surface of the PS-PVD TBCs by air plasma spraying (APS). The effect of dense-layered thickness on the erosion behaviour of PS-PVD TBCs was discussed. Experimental results showed that, as the thickness of the dense-layered increased, the erosion resistance of the PS-PVD TBCs enhanced. When the thickness of the dense-layered coating was 5μm, it was not obvious upon the influence on the erosion failure behavior of the PS-PVD TBCs. In the case of a 10μm dense-layered coating, the erosion resistance performance of the PS-PVD TBCs improved by about 30%. While the erosion resistance performance of the PS-PVD TBCs increased almost 4 times when the thickness of the dense layer reached 20μm.
Sealing Analysis of Cement Plug in Offshore Abandoned Wells
Authors: Tang Geng , Yan Hui , Li Jun , Song Xue Feng , Zhang Xin , Guo Xue Li
Published: May 2020

A three-dimensional finite element model of stratum-cement ring-casing-cement plug was established for the failure analysis of the cement plug seal in the abandoned oil and gas wells. The mechanical parameters, length, bottom fluid pressure and casing swaging length of the cement plug under non-uniform ground stress conditions were analyzed. The results showed that when the bottom of the cement plug was subjected to fluid pressure, the stress at the interface between the cement plug and the casing increased, and thereby the cement plug at the bottom and the cementation of the casing failed, resulting in a the decrease in the sealing performance of the cement plug, which may be sealed under fluid corrosion. As the modulus of elasticity and the radius of the cement plug increased, the cement plug stress and the cement failure length increased. As the cement plug length increased, the cement plug stress and the cement failure length decreased, while Poisson's ratio for the cement plug stress and the cement failure length increased. The increase of the bottom fluid pressure could increase the cement plug stress and the cementation failure length. In the abandoned well, where the casing was forged and then grinded after the casing was forged, the length of the casing milling increased, the plug stress of cement reduced. These findings can provide insightful potentials for the parameters of cement plugs when the cement plugs are closed in the offshore oil and gas wells.
Effect of Silica-Alumina Ratio of Catalysts on NO Decomposition Rate in Cement Kiln Exhaust
Authors: Gan Yan Ling , Cui Su Ping , Ma Xiao Yu , Wang Ya Li
Published: May 2020

In order to deal with the pollution of NO in cement kiln exhaust, the study of NO catalytic decomposition catalyst obtained much more attention. The effect of silica-alumina ratio on NO decomposition rate in cement kiln without other reductant was studied. The NO decomposition rate of catalysts with different silica-alumina ratio was determined by infrared spectrometer. And pore structures and the microstructure of the catalyst were characterized separately by BET surface area, nitrogen adsorption-desorption and XRD. The results show that silica-alumina ratio of catalyst was preferred to be 50 with the best NO decomposition rate when the temperature was below 300 °C. The catalyst with silica-alumina ratio of 60 has the higher catalytic activity when the temperature was higher than 300 °C, and the decomposition rate achieved 70% at 600 °C. XRD results shows the crystallinity of catalysts increased as the silica-alumina ratio increased. BET surface area and the cumulative pore volume of catalysts gradually increased, and the average pore diameter gradually reduced with the increase of silica-alumina ratio.
One-Step Hydrothermal Synthesis of 1T@2H MoS2 for Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation Performance of Methyl Blue
Authors: Li Dong Dong , Lei Yan Hua , Tan Ning , Liu Tao , Chang Xue Ting , Fan Run Hua , Gao Guan Hui
Published: May 2020

Photocatalytic technology is widely used in water purification because of its environmental protection, high efficiency and energy saving. Therefore, it is extremely important for the selection and preparation of specific semiconductor materials used in the field of photocatalysis. In this work, 1T@2H MoS2 nanosheets were fabricated by simple hydrothermal method, and the photocatalytic property of as-prepared 1T@2H MoS2 were investigated by the photo-degradation of methylene blue (MB) water solutions under visible light irradiation via 2H MoS2.The results indicated that compared to 2H MoS2, the 1T@2H MoS2 exhibited more excellent photocatalytic degradation property. After 150 minutes of irradiation under visible light, 1T@2H MoS2 had a removal rate of 98% for MB, and 2H MoS2 eventually reached 19%. The enhancement photocatalytic property of 1T@2H MoS2 could be attributed to the reduced band gap energy of the hybrid-nanosheets and the increased in electron migration speed.
Effect of Ca and Zr Additions and Aging Treatments on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Mg-Sn Alloy
Authors: Wang Fan , Feng Yun , Li Ming Shi , Teng Xin Ying
Published: May 2020

The effect of Ca and Zr Additions and Aging Treatments on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Mg-Sn alloy was investigated. It was found that the grain size of as-cast Mg-4Sn-xCa and Mg-4Sn-xZr alloys was refined with the increase of alloying elements addition. The alloys were solution-treated at 480 °C and aged at 160 °C, and the aging peak appeared after 4-5 h. The difference was that the maximum tensile strength and Brinell hardness of Mg-4Sn-0.3Ca were 140.7 MPa and 44.5 HB, respectively, while in Mg-4Sn-xZr alloy, Mg-4Sn-0.5Zr was optimal. The maximum tensile strength and Brinell hardness of Mg-4Sn-0.5Zr were 137.4 MPa and 41.5 HB, respectively. This difference was mainly due to the formation of the brittle phase CaMgSn in the Mg-4Sn-xCa alloy. The excessive brittle phase was not conducive to the strength of the alloy, but could increase the hardness of the alloy. However, Zr existed as a simple substance in the alloy, which can be used as a nucleation particle to inhibit grain growth and play a role of fine grain strengthening. But the addition of Zr did not form many hard phases, so the hardness did not change much.
Effect of Ca on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Directionally Solidified Mg-Zn-Ca Alloys
Authors: Zhang Yi , Feng Xiao Hui , Yang Yuan Sheng
Published: May 2020

The effect of Ca on the microstructure and mechanical properties of directionally solidified (DSed) Mg-3Zn-xCa alloys (x=0.2,0.5,0.8wt.%) was investigated in the present work. The results showed that the DSed samples with the growth rate of 120 μm/s had columnar dendritic structures and the primary dendritic arm spacing (PDAS) decreased with the content of Ca increase. The TEM result indicated that the growth orientation of the DSed Mg-Zn-xCa alloys was , which was independent of the content of Ca. The tensile tests at room temperature showed that the mechanical properties of the DSed Mg-Zn-xCa alloys were strongly affected by the content of Ca. The addition of Ca remarkably improved the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and the yield strength (YS), while dramatically reduced the elongation (El). Prismatic slip and twinning were the main deformation mechanisms in tensile tests.
Microstructure and Properties of Rapidly Solidified Al-Zn-Mg-Cu Alloy
Authors: Ren Wei Min , Chen Zi Yong , Xiang Zhi Lei , Chai Li Hua
Published: May 2020

Refining grain plays an important role in improving the mechanical properties of aluminum alloys. However, the conventional casting method with a slow cooling rate can be easy to cause coarseness of the microstructure and serious segregation. In this paper, the rapid solidification of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy was prepared by the single-roller belt method. The alloy strip was studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and hardness test to study the microstructure and properties of the rapidly solidified aluminum alloy. The results show that the roller speed was an important parameters affecting the formability of the alloy. When the roller speed was 15 m/s, the aluminum alloy produced a thin bandwidth of 5 mm and a thickness of 150 um. As the rotation speed of the roller increased, the cooling rate of the melt increased, and the microstructure of the rapidly solidified Al-Zn-Mg-Cu aluminum alloy strip improved in grains refinement. Compared with the conventionally cast Al-Zn-Mg-Cu aluminum alloys, the Al-Zn-Mg-Cu aluminum alloys prepared by rapid solidification showed much finer crystal grains, and enhanced solid solubility of alloying elements with less precipitation of second phase and high hardness.
Non-Isothermal Kinetics Analysis of α→β Transformation in Zirconium Alloy
Authors: Wu Zong Pei , Cheng Zhu Qing , Yang Zhong Bo , Yi Wei , Xu Xiao Lu
Published: May 2020

Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to study non-isothermal kinetics of α→β transformation of Zr-0.5wt%Sn-0.15wt%Nb-0.5wt%Fe-0.25wt%V alloy. The DSC curves were measured from room temperature to 1030 °C at the heating rate of 15, 20, 30, 50°C /min respectively. The Flynn-Wall-Ozawa (FWO) method was used to get the activation energy (E) of α→β transformation at different conversion ratios. Then the values of activation energy obtained were modified by Ozawa iterative equation. The kinetic mechanism functions of α→β transformation were investigated by Criado-Ortega methods. The results show that the activation energy is related to conversion ratios. It means α→β transformation is not a simple one-step reaction but a complex multi-step reaction. The most probable kinetic mechanism functions are different in different temperature ranges, which are -ln(1-x) for ≤830 °C, [-ln(1-x)]1/2 for 834~848 °C, [-ln(1-x)]2/5for 850~856 °C and [-ln(1-x)]1/3 for 858~868 °C respectively.
Finite Element Analysis on Processing of PCD End-Mill Milling Copper
Authors: Jia Yun Hai , Quan Chong Hao , Guo Jian Mei , Wang Min , Zhang Qin Jian
Published: May 2020

Polycrystalline diamond (PCD), is a tool material and widely used in nonferrous metal processing due to its excellent properties, such as high hardness, high wear resistance, high thermal conductivity and low friction coefficient. Considering the friction between the cutter and the workpiece, the heat generated by the elastic-plastic deformation and the heat transfer between the cutter and the workpiece. The finite element analysis software ABAQUS was used to study the effect of different processing parameters on the temperature field distribution and cutting force of the cutter, in the case of welded PCD double-edge end milling copper. The temperature distribution of cutting tools and the changing trend of cutting force with milling parameters was obtained. These technological parameters include the milling rotation speed n, the axial milling depth ap, and the feed rate f. The simulation results show that the tool temperature increases with the increase of milling depth, feed per revolution and rotation speed. However, the tool temperature has little effect on the tool life. Under the condition of satisfying the work-piece surface quality and machining efficiency, low speed, small milling depth and small feed should be selected as far as possible. Milling depth has a great influence on cutting force. When milling speed is about 2400 r/min, the axial milling depth is 0.3 mm, and the feed is 0.2 mm/r, which can obtain small milling force and lower tool temperature, and further extend the life of PCD tool.
Microstructure and Properties of Lean Duplex Stainless Steel UNS S32101 Welded Joint by Hot Wire TIG Welding
Authors: Bao Liang Liang , Wang Yong , Han Tao
Published: May 2020

Lean duplex stainless steel UNS S32101 was welded by hot wire TIG welding and traditional TIG welding, and nice formed welds with no visible defects were obtained. Metallographic microstructure, phase ratio, mechanical properties and pitting corrosion resistance property of the welded joints were tested. Microstructure analysis showed that the hot wire TIG and traditional TIG welded joints had similar microstructures. The welded metal was composed of ferrite, grain boundary austenite (GBA), Widmanstatten austenite (WA), intragranular austenite (IGA). The high temperature heat affected zone (HTHAZ) consisted of ferrite, GBA and IGA. The low temperature heat affected zone (LTHAZ) had semblable microstructures with base metal. The phase ratio of welded joints was measured by manual point count method. The ferrite/austenite ratio of hot wire TIG welded metal was close to 1:1. The welded joints of hot wire TIG and traditional TIG had same hardness distribution. The hardness of hot wire TIG with an average value of 291 HV10 was a little higher than that of traditional TIG with an average value of 280 HV10. Charpy impact test at -40°C showed that the impact values of hot wire TIG and traditional TIG welded joints meet the standard requirements. The results of chemical weight loss method showed that the corrosion rate of hot wire TIG welded joint was less than 10 mdd. Potentiodynamic polarization method results showed that the pitting corrosion resistance of hot wire TIG welded joints was slightly lower than that of base metal. Solid solution treatment significantly increased the pitting corrosion resistance of welded joints and base metal. The hot wire TIG and traditional TIG had similar microstructure and properties under the same arc power, however the welding speed of hot wire TIG was 1.5 times higher than that of traditional TIG and the welding efficiency was greatly improved.
Simulation of Mechanical Property and Fracture Behavior of Reactor Pressure Vessel Steel by Small Punch Test
Authors: Bai Bing , Zhang Chang Yi , Wang Cheng Long , Yang Wen
Published: May 2020

The life extension of the reactor requires the improvement of the material performance, especially the radiation resistance. At present, some data about the irradiation hardening and embrittlement behavior of reactor pressure vessel steel have been obtained, mainly the standard tensile properties, standard impact properties and so on. However, to understand the service behavior of materials at higher doses, higher neutron fluence radiation tests are needed. The problem is that because of the large size of the standard sample, if the irradiation dose continues to increase, the surface dose of the irradiated sample will be larger, and it is difficult to test after irradiation. In addition, if the irradiation sample can be replaced by smaller sample, the utilization space of the radiation channel will be greatly improved. The high-throughput characterization for irradiation performance of reactor pressure vessel steel can be achieved. Therefore, in this work, the small punch test of reactor pressure vessel material A508-3 steel was carried out at the temperatures ranging from -150 °C to room temperature. The performance data, such as tensile characteristics, yield strength and fracture energy, were obtained from load-deformation curves. Comparing the results of small punch test with the data obtained by standard tensile and impact test, the correlation on the performance data was established for A508-3 steel.
Retained Austenite Control and Extra-Cryogenic Impact Toughness of Fe-3.0%Mn Low Carbon Steel
Authors: Deng Xiang Tao , Li Xiao Lin , Huang Long , Wang Zhao Dong
Published: May 2020

The control of the retained austenite in Fe-3.0%Mn Low carbon steel by a three-step intercritical heat treatment and the low-temperature impact toughness evolution during the process were analyzed in the present study. The results indicated that the microstructure consisted intercritical ferrite, martensite/bainite and retained austenite. The distribution of carbon and manganese could improve the stability of the austenite located at the grain boundaries of prior austenite and lath boundaries of martensite. For the TRIP effect of the austenite, the excellent plasticity and low temperature toughness was obtained. The impact toughness could reach 200 J (impact energy) at －80 °C during the three-step heat treatment, and the uniform elongation could exceed at 16%.
Mechanical and Tribological Behaviors of WAl12 Reinforced 2024 Aluminum Alloy Matrix Composites
Authors: Wu Jin Hao , Sun You Hong , Meng Qing Nan , Zhang Chi , Peng Su Su
Published: May 2020

WAl12 reinforced 2024 aluminum alloy matrix composites were prepared by powder metallurgy with tungsten particles and W50Al50 alloy particles. The effects of WAl12 on the mechanical properties of 2024 aluminum alloy composites at room temperature and high temperature were studied, and the friction behavior was characterized. The results show that intermetallic WAl12 phase forms in the composite by 2024 aluminum alloy and tungsten. The mechanical properties and friction behavior can be improved by the formation of intermetallic WAl12 phase. The tensile strength of 2024 aluminum alloy at room temperature and 180 °C can be improved by adding tungsten less than 1.5 at.%. Adding 2.0 at.% tungsten can reduce the friction coefficient by 20 % and the scratch width by 40 %. The tensile fracture surface of the sample was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), indicating that WAl12 intermetallic phase is closely connected with the aluminum matrix.
Effects of Retrogression Treatment Process on the Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Behavior of the Graphene/7075 Aluminum Matrix Composite
Authors: Ren Bing Hui , Wang Kang , Wang Ran , Leng Jin Feng
Published: May 2020

The influence of various retrogression and re-ageing (RRA) treatment processes on the hardness, electrical conductivity and corrosion behavior of graphene/7075 aluminum matrix composite were investigated. The results showed that the hardness decreased swiftly at the initial stage and short time to peak value as the retrogression temperature (170 °C, 180 °C, 190 °C, 200 °C) rises. In the RRA 180 °C/120 min process, the electrical conductivity and peak-aging Brinell hardness were 37.9%IACS, 192.8. This RRA treatment possessed excellent pitting corrosion resistance, and the corresponding pitting potential (Epit), the passivation potential (Epit-Ecorr), the pitting corrosion current density (Logicorr) were -0.756V, 0.558V, -1.836A/cm2, respectively. This enhance can attribute that the continuous η phase distributed along the grain boundary became intermittent and coarse in the retrogression stage.
Sri Lankan Economic Sovereignty: Insights of Potentially Alarming Trends
Authors: Gunuruwan T. Lalitharisi , Wickremeratne Naveen
Published: May 2020

This study attempts to examine Sri Lanka’s macroeconomic evolutions which could be potentially harmful to national economic sovereignty. The study was based on time series secondary data for the time period spanning from 1970 to 2016. The operational methodology adopted is a descriptive statistical trend analysis on macroeconomic variables such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Gross National Income (GNI), Net Factor Income from Abroad (NFIFA), Exports, Imports, Current Account Balance and Foreign Debt. The findings of the study revealed that the adverse Trade Balance ever since the liberalisation of the Sri Lankan economy in 1978 has been behind much of the ill-effects resulting in heavy foreign indebtedness. Growing factor payments abroad as a ratio of GDP provides suggestive evidence of gradual weakening of national ownership of the Sri Lankan economy. The findings of the study indicate that the solution for such malaise possibly exists in policies anchored outside the hitherto adopted mainstream economic doctrine.
Athukorala, P.C., Ginting, E., Hill, H and Kumar, U. (2017). The Sri Lankan Economy: Charting a New Course
Authors: Weragoda Lakshika
Published: May 2020

No abstract avalable.
කුමාරතුංග මුනිදාස සාහිත්‍ය නිර්මාණ තුළින් පිළිබිඹු කෙරෙන ජාතික සංවර්ධන අර්ථ ශාස්ත්‍රීය දෘෂ්ටිවාදය
Authors: Gunaruwan Thevarathanthrige Lalithasiri , Kalpanee Yashodha Vidanagamage
Published: May 2020

Cumaratunga Munidasa was an intellectual who lived in the first half of the 20th Century, who was well recognized in the Sri Lankan society as an expert in Sinhala language, grammar and poet. However, a glance into his literary writings would reflect an economic vision as well. Many a cross-section of the theme of national development appears addressed in his innovative literary constructions. Based on that observation, the present research intended to examine Cumaratunga writings at an economic philosophical angle to explore the possibility of extracting a strategic vision on economic development through such writings. It also analyses the extent to which such extracted policy directions conform to or differ from those teachings of well-known economic schools of thought such as classical school, Keynesianism or Socialism. In spite of some such parallels, a fundamental inference in this research is that the Cumaratunga economic vision essentially is not in conformity with the neo-liberal political mainstream and neo-classical economic rationale. It concludes that the economic vision perceivable in Cumaratunga writings is very strongly patriotic and national sovereignty-oriented, to such an extent that “patriotism” could even be perceived as a novel factor of production. The research observes that this Cumaratunga economic vision as revealed from our literary heritage has not been adequately deployed in determining development policies of Sri Lanka in the recent past. It also enables to deduce that an economic growth devoid of patriotism cannot lead the nation towards sovereign and sustainable development.
An overview of mobile applications (apps) to support the coronavirus disease 2019 response in India
Authors: Bassi Abhinav , Arfin Sumaiya , John Oommen , Jha Vivekanand
Published: May 2020

Background & objectives:

The potential benefits of mobile health (mHealth) initiatives to manage the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic have been explored. The Government of India, State governments, and healthcare organizations have developed various mobile apps for the containment of COVID-19. This study was aimed to systematically review COVID-19 related mobile apps and highlight gaps to inform the development of future mHealth initiatives.

Methods:

Google Play and the Apple app stores were searched using the terms 'COVID-19', 'coronavirus', 'pandemic', and 'epidemic' in the first week of April 2020. A list of COVID-19-specific functions was compiled based on the review of the selected apps, the literature on epidemic surveillance, and national and international media reports. The World Health Organization guideline on Digital Health Interventions was used to classify the app functions under the categories of the general public, health workers, health system managers, and data services.

Results:

The search yielded 346 potential COVID-19 apps, of which 50 met the inclusion criteria. Dissemination of untargeted COVID-19-related information on preventative strategies and monitoring the movements of quarantined individuals was the function of 27 (54%) and 19 (32%) apps, respectively. Eight (16%) apps had a contact tracing and hotspot identification function.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Our study highlights the current emphasis on the development of self-testing, quarantine monitoring, and contact tracing apps. India's response to COVID-19 can be strengthened by developing comprehensive mHealth solutions for frontline healthcare workers, rapid response teams and public health authorities. Among this unprecedented global health emergency, the Governments must ensure the necessary but least intrusive measures for disease surveillance.
The Last Confucians of Mid-20th Century Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Tuan-Cuong
Published: May 2020

The Vietnam Association of Traditional Studies (VATS) took the initiative in promoting Confucian cultural practices in South Vietnam from 1955–1975. The association strove towards collecting, researching, translating, interpreting and circulating classical Sinographic documents in order to preserve traditional East Asian culture in relation to up-to-date moral education and practical science. Unfortunately, there is a lack of research material related to the organization during the period after the two halves of Vietnam were reunited in 1975. Thus, the Association’s activities after 1975 cannot be discussed. To bridge the gap, this article is based on rare documents mostly collected by the author, describing the history and activities of this Confucian organization, including its establishment (1954), regulations, organizational structure, and membership. This article will also focus on the VATS’s Confucian cultural practices, such as (i) publishing as a way to promote Confucianism and traditional morality, (ii) Confucianism and Literary Sinitic education, (iii) public speeches, (iv) organizing the annual commemoration of Confucius’ birthday on September 28th, (v) and promoting international cooperation related to Confucianism. These activities demonstrate the organization’s attempt at popularizing Confucianism and making it compatible with ideas and practices introduced by modernization and Westernization in the middle of the twentieth century.
Nebeški mandat in dve vrsti resnice
Authors: Rošker Jana S.
Published: May 2020

Večina modernih teoretičark in teoretikov je menila, da je konfucijanstvo zastarela ideologija, ki ni samo neprimerna za razvoj modernih znanosti in demokratičnih družb, temveč je tudi merodajno odgovorna za globoko družbeno in politično krizo, ki je zaznamovala Kitajsko v zadnjih dvesto letih. Tajvanski moderni konfucijanci pa v tem idejnem sistemu niso videli krivca za ta položaj. Večinoma so menili, da je konfucijanstvo popolnoma združljivo tako z znanostjo kot tudi z demokracijo. Večina jih je pri tem celo zagovarjala stališče, da vzhodnoazijske kulture v okviru svojih družbenih specifik ne bodo mogle razviti demokratičnih ustrojev družbe, če se pri tem ne bodo oprle na ustrezne elemente lastne, torej konfucijanske tradicije. Ta članek kritično analizira Tang Junyijev in Mou Zongsanov teoretski model možnega preporoda konfucijanskih protodemokracij.
Embedded Resilience Properties Identified in Quality Assurance and Corporate Governance in the South African Aviation Industry
Authors: Serfontein Estie , Govender Krishna
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to identify embedded drivers of organisational resilience through examination of stakeholders’ perceptions of the interaction between quality assurance and corporate governance in the South African aviation industry. The study followed the methodological principles of qualitative content analysis to collect and analyse data from semi-structured interviews conducted among a convenience sample of 26 stakeholders to the South African aviation industry. A fragmented relationship between quality assurance and corporate governance in the South African aviation industry was identified. Dissonance between quality assurance and corporate governance reduces an organisation’s ability to remain resilient. Principles and practices associated with quality assurance and corporate governance stimulate underlying resilience. The study provided a framework promoting organisational resilience derived from participants’ perceptions on quality assurance and corporate governance principles in the South African aviation industry. This contribution harmonised multiple disciplines of existing management systems into a practical and synergised unit to simultaneously overcome fragmented cooperation between quality assurance and corporate governance and stimulate resilience. As the aviation industry provides a service to the public and serves as a platform for economic development of other industries, the insight associated with this study transcends the aviation industry itself.
Microcontroller Training Kit Design Compatible with Drawings of the ISIS Simulation Program
Authors: Apaydin H. , Fusun Oyman Serteller N.
Published: May 2020

Microcontrollers are inside all areas of industry today. They are being used in many electronic circuit designs, ranging from very simple systems to highly complex systems. For that reason, microcontrollers have a great importance in the electronics sector. Microcontrollers are especially important in terms of students enrolled in engineering departments in the fields of computers, electrical engineering, electronics, and mechatronics. Experimental sets and simulation programs are used in the learning and teaching of microcontrollers in real-world simulations. In this study, a 16F877 microcontroller training set, designed for use in microcontroller courses, was used. The designed training kit allows experimentation with the 16F877 microcontroller circuits as a subprogram of the Proteus program of Lab center Electronics, which is electronic circuit drawing in Proteus ISIS (Intelligent Schematic Input System) simulation software tested in a real environment. The microcontroller basic hardware connections and the application circuits on the training kit were implemented as modules similar to the ISIS program drawings. Transition from the simulation environment to the real-life environment can be done easily by using these modules, and the information learned in this way becomes concrete.
Policies of pedagogical maintenance of students ready for a safe life in inclusive education
Authors: Alexandrovna Busygina Tatyana , Korostelev Aleksandr A. , Artemova Elena I. , Kolyvanova Larisa Aleksandrovna , Nosova Tamara Mikhailovna , Pavlov Ivan Ivanovich , Thomas Svetlana Mikhailovna
Published: May 2020

The article aimed to review some pedagogical policies for the inclusion and a safe life of people with disabilities. Training the preparation of people with disabilities and disabilities for a safe life is more effective within the framework of an accessible and organized educational environment in the educational institution, which guarantees the solution of professional problems in the training of future middle-level specialists. For a safe stay in society. Under the provision of people with health problems for a safe life, we consider the complex subjective property of a person with a disability, which manifests itself when it understands the dangers that have arisen in the educational environment and in various areas of life and we provide a way to overcome them. It is concluded that without an accessible and well-organized educational environment, it is impossible to achieve the result of establishing harmonious relationships between people with disabilities and the social environment that determine their greater disposition for a safe entry into society and a full life in modern society. Particular attention is paid in the process of vocational training for people with disabilities to individualization.
La organización por procesos en empresas de servicios: un abordaje teórico
Authors: Chacón León Luz María
Published: May 2020

La globalización, el caos y la complejidad son el medio en el que la organización existe y coexiste en la actualidad. La deslocalización de las empresas, de forma interna y externa, ha sido una respuesta rápida a las nuevas exigencias del mercado.
Desde la década de los ochenta, Costa Rica inició su proceso de apertura comercial, tras lo cual su parque empresarial se ha ido transformando del sector primario al terciario. Ante las nuevas demanda del entorno globalizado, las organizaciones han respondido de forma inteligente. De igual manera, la gestión de dichas organizaciones ha derivado hacia la administración por procesos.