bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creating Conversation: Reflections on Cultural Sensitivity in Family Interviewing
Authors: Dennis Ruth E. , Giangreco Michael F.
Published: July 2017

This study examines culturally sensitive practices in family interviewing and developing individualized education programs. Participants were 14 professionals in the field of special education, who provided their perceptions and reflections on their experiences as members of cultural minority groups in the United States. The article reviews literature relevant to cultural sensitivity and family interviewing, describes the method and findings of the study, and discusses culturally sensitive practices in family interviewing, while avoiding stereotypes and generalizations. Recommendations for professionals include increasing their own knowledge base about other cultures; examining their own cultural biases; providing a family focus; allowing sufficient time for comfortable interviews; and considering time, place, and language needs.
Teaching Students with Learning Disabilities to Mindfully Plan When Writing
Authors: Troia Gary A. , Graham Steve , Harris Karen R.
Published: July 2017

In this study, fifth-grade students with learning disabilities received instruction designed to help them incorporate three common planning strategies into their current approach to writing. Students learned to set goals, brainstorm ideas, and sequence their ideas while writing stories and completing self-selected homework assignments. To facilitate maintenance and generalization, instruction included a variety of procedures for inducing the thoughtful or mindful application of the planning strategies. Following instruction, planning became a prominent part of the composing process, as students spent as much time planning papers as writing them. Correspondingly, the schematic structure of students' stories improved and their papers became longer. These effects generalized to a second, uninstructed genre, persuasive essay writing, and were generally maintained over time.
Patterns of Home and School Partnership for General and Special Education Students at the Secondary Level
Authors: Deslandes Rollande , Royer Égide , Potvin Pierre , Leclerc Danielle
Published: July 2017

This article examines the relationship between adolescents' perceptions of home and school partnership practices and two student education outcomes: grades in French and time spent on homework. The participants for the study consisted of two groups, 525 general education students and 112 special education students. The questionnaires were based on Epstein's framework of six types of partnership practices. Type 4, involvement in learning activities at home, predicted both outcomes of general education students. For special education, type 4 and type 1 had the largest association with grades and time spent on homework, respectively. The findings lend support to the view that the degree of association between particular partnership practices and student outcomes may vary among general and special education students.
Mediation as a Transition Process: The Impact on Postschool Employment Outcomes
Authors: Devlieger Patrick J. , Trach John S.
Published: July 2017

This article utilizes ethnographic research methods to evaluate the impact of mediation on the transition outcomes of persons with mild mental retardation. The involvement of parents and the focal persons was disproportionate to that of school and agency personnel. School and agency efforts most often resulted in sheltered employment, while personal or parent mediation resulted more often in self-employment and continuing education outcomes. Strategies used by focal persons, their parents, and agencies or schools are discussed in relation to: (a) empowerment and self-determination, (b) the social dimensions of transition planning and “balanced mediation,” and (c) the Individualized Education Program meeting as a planning tool for developing balanced mediation and identification of mentor relationships.
Improving Practices for Students with Hearing Impairments
Authors: Easterbrooks Susan
Published: July 2017

The issues in deaf education are very complex, and the population is far from homogeneous. This article presents research, describes current practices in education of students who are deaf and hard of hearing, and discusses the relevance of their implications to practitioners. First, a chronicle of federal efforts to address the needs of students who are deaf and hard of hearing is provided. Next, current statistics on the population are illustrated followed by a presentation of current research on educational outcomes and their implications. In final sections, communication options and current challenges are presented followed by descriptions of research surrounding new technologies, approaches, and options. New challenges facing the population, promising practices, and recommendations for advancing the field are also highlighted.
A Low-Cost Experiment on Digital Temperature Control for Incorporating with a Digital Control Course
Authors: Moreno L. , Sanchez J. L. , Acosta L.
Published: July 2017

A low cost experiment on digital temperature control process for incorporating with a digital control course

A simple real time and low cost experience in temperature control is presented. This paper describes a sequence of five experiments performed with the temperature process. They include modelling, simulation, P and PI control by microcomputer, noise rejection and non linear effects. The simulations have been carried-out by means of two simulation packages: TUTSIM and MATLAB.
OCCAM, As a Second Language
Authors: Carpenter G. F. , Tyrrell A. M.
Published: July 2017

Occam, as a second language

The paper discusses the use of occam in the design of parallel processing systems by students already experienced in sequential software design. By considering final year design projects the authors conclude that the occam model of concurrency makes occam an excellent second language for the modern Electronic Engineer.
An Interdisciplinary Group — project Module for an Undergraduate Course in Electrical Engineering
Authors: Donnelly T. , Filmore P. , Kaler J. , Thomas B.
Published: July 2017

An interdisciplinary group-project module for an undergraduate course in electrical/electronic engineering

The group-project integrates the teaching of technical and business skills in a team context. Groups of five students design and construct an electronic device for manufacturing and marketing at a profit. Business plans and promotional material are produced. The module generates a high degree of student motivation.
Network Analysis Using Millman's Theorem
Authors: Park Ue-Yul , Park Chong-Yeun
Published: July 2017

Network analysis using Millman's theorem

This paper has shown that Millman's theorem is very useful in the analysis of passive or active networks, especially for circuits with operational amplifiers. To explain how to apply Millman's theorem to various network problems, the circuit with one transistor and four kinds of circuit with ideal operational amplifiers are illustrated.
Coherent Optical Pattern Recognition Using Computer-Generated Holograms
Authors: Ipson S. S. , Booth W. , Chang K. F.
Published: July 2017

Coherent optical pattern recognition using computer-generated holograms

A relatively inexpensive optical processing system is described which uses a TV camera to demonstrate visually many of the features of Fourier transform theory with particular application to character recognition. The method uses a computer-generated hologram of the character in the transform plane to detect the presence of the character.
Microcomputer Interfacing Using the Macintosh II
Authors: Dugley N. , Cavenor M. C. , Arnold J. F.
Published: July 2017

Microcomputer interfacing using the Macintosh II

A practical course in microcomputer interfacing is described, based upon the Macintosh II graphics workstation and the Modula 2 programming language. The advantages of this approach over the traditional approach using a simple 8-bit microcomputer and assembler are discussed. Outlines of nine experiments are included together with brief descriptions of the hardware necessary to support the course.
Investigation of Electrical Breakdown in Air Using an Image Processing Technique
Authors: Watson D. B. , Barber M. I. , Samuels K. A.
Published: July 2017

Investigation of electrical breakdown in air using an image processing technique

Video recordings of high-voltage breakdown tracks between electrodes in air have been analysed using an image processing technique. The paper discusses the tortuosity of the breakdown tracks, and a logarithmic distribution of track segment lengths has been found.
A European Model — Semesters, Modules and Cats
Authors: Godfrey J. S. , Mitchell R. H. , Eder A. , Steinbrunn J.
Published: July 2017

A European model: semesters, modules and CATs

The University of Ulster has developed links with Bavarian Fachhohschulen in Augsburg and Kempten. New course formats, with similar semester periods have been adopted to facilitate arrangements for offering dual awards to students undertaking ERASMUS exchange programmes.
Hybrid Image Segmentation Within a Computer Vision Hierarchy
Authors: Thomas Ray , Zahedi Fariborz
Published: July 2017

Hybrid image segmentation within a computer vision hierarchy

A generic model of a computer vision system is presented which highlights the critical role of image segmentation. A hybrid segmentation approach, utilising both edge-based and region-based techniques, is proposed for improved quality of segmentation. An image segmentation architecture is outlined and test results are presented and discussed.
A Comparative Study of on-off Characteristics of Conversational Bangla and English Speech Over a Telephone Channel
Authors: Rahman Saifur , Ahmed Kazi Mohiuddin
Published: July 2017

A comparative study of on-off characteristics of conversational Bangla and English speech over a telephone channel

The existing ‘speech interpolation’ technique used in some speech transmission systems has been developed for the English language. In order to explore the possibility that different settings of the parameters might be more appropriate for other languages, the on-off speech statistics of conversational Bangla speech over a telephone channel were collected. A comparative study of the on-off characteristics of Bangla and English speech is presented.
What is Engineering? Putting Engineering on the map
Authors: Hall A. G.
Published: July 2017

What is engineering? or putting engineering on the map

A simple diagram is introduced to represent the activities and knowledge of engineering. This is used to discuss some of the concerns of the teacher of electronic engineering; particularly ‘selling’ the idea of engineering, and some aspects of general course design.
Electronics as an Academic Subject
Authors: Morant M. J.
Published: July 2017

Electronics as an academic subject

This paper decribes the philosophy of a broad course in electronics based on a precise definition of the subject. The main themes and structure of such courses are discussed. Links between the themes show the unity of the subject. Breadth is particularly useful in education for a long-term career in electronics.
Training in Electrical Engineering at the Technical University of Budapest
Authors: Zombory LÁszl Ó
Published: July 2017

Training in electrical engineering at the Technical University of Budapest

The paper outlines the development of the teaching of electrical engineering at the Technical University of Budapest from 1893 to the present day, and considers possible further changes in the future.
New Laboratory Units in Electrical Engineering at Curtin University of Technology
Authors: Lawrance W. B.
Published: July 2017

New laboratory units in electrical engineering at Curtin University of Technology

Courses in the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering have been modified to include laboratory units. These units are self-contained and attempt to overcome the limitations associated with traditional laboratory classes.
Experimental Self-Location Vehicle Based on Ultrasonic Waves Guided System
Authors: Habib Robert Sh. , Habib Harootyun Sh. , Majeed Bassam S.
Published: July 2017

Experimental self-location vehicle based on an ultrasonic wave-guided system

This paper describes the design and implementation of an automated guided vehicle, based on a microcomputer-controlled ultrasonic self-location system. Dynamic performance and system repeatability are evaluated by tests carried out on the applied self-navigating algorithm. The system is suitable for robotics or FMS laboratory experiments utilising the implemented hardware and relevant software.
A Comprehensive Software Simulator for Teaching Power Distribution Systems
Authors: Teo C.Y.
Published: July 2017

A comprehensive software simulator for teaching power distribution systems

An innovative distribution system simulator integrating load flow, fault current calculation and modelling of overcurrent relays and breaker operation is described. Appropriate sets of scenarios are generated for different levels of exercise and all actions taken by the student are logged, automatically evaluated and awarded a grade.
Using a Hardware Description Language to Teach Top-Down Design Methodology for IC Design
Authors: Harrold S. J.
Published: July 2017

Using a hardware description language to teach top-down design methodology for IC design

This paper described how a hardware description language can be used to give students experience in top-down IC design and achieve a reasonably demanding hardware realisation within an acceptable time-scale.
Experience with Teaching Computer Architecture
Authors: Fulcher J.
Published: July 2017

Experience with teaching computer architecture

A middle-level undergraduate course in computer architecture is described, in terms of both formal coursework and laboratory exercises. These exercises are undertaken using a PDP8 simulator for the Apple Macintosh, an MC68000-based microcomputer, and RISC and Cache simulators for Unix.
PC-Based Protective Relaying Algorithms for Generator Using Digital Filters
Authors: Basha A. M. , Janardhanan P. , Bindu R.
Published: July 2017

PC-based protective relaying algorithms for generator using digital filters

Protective relaying algorithms are developed for extracting 50 Hz component of generator stator signals and 100 Hz component of rotor current signals. These frequency components are used for detecting the internal short-circuit and rotor overheating condition of generators. The proposed algorithms were satisfactorily tested for various simulated conditions of the system.
A Practical Introduction to Finite Element Analysis of Electromagnetic Problems
Authors: Chedid R.
Published: July 2017

A practical introduction to finite element analysis of electromagnetic problems

An attempt is made in this paper to bring the finite element method to a wider audience of undergraduate and graduate students through an approach that focuses on the design of the preprocessor, the solver and the postprocessor. Typical Fortran code is cited to illustrate the elegance of the method.
Generalized Machine Theory Applied to a Three Phase Twin Stator Squirrel-Cage Induction Motor
Authors: Perahia J. , Nayar C. V.
Published: July 2017

Generalized machine theory applied to a three phase twin stator squirrel-cage induction motor

This paper uses generalized machine theory to develop an equivalent circuit model of a three phase induction motor comprised of two independently housed stator windings with one stator housing moveable, and a single squirrel-cage rotor whose bars extend the full length of the two stators.
A Different Perspective of the Per-Unit System in Power System Engineering
Authors: Lee T. M.
Published: July 2017

A different perspective of the per-unit system in power system engineering

A novel method using per-unit admittance instead of the conventional per-unit impedance in power engineering is proposed. The use of one MVA as base power further reduces the computational process so that fault MVA at various parts of a network can be directly obtained by calculating the equivalent source admittances.
An Interactive Computer Aided Package for Electrical Engineering Education
Authors: Samaan N. , Sutano D.
Published: July 2017

An interactive computer-aided package for electrical engineering education

This paper describes an interactive, general-purpose computer-aided teaching package. This package is for use on IBM or compatible personal computers. Although it was initially developed for training electrical engineering students, it is envisaged that it can also be applied to other areas of higher education.
Rules for Designing Digital Controllers from their Analog Counterparts
Authors: O'malley Mark J. , Paor Annraoi M. De
Published: July 2017

Rules for designing digital controllers from their analog counterparts

Rules and observations for the design of balanced digital controllers from their analog counterparts are given. A root range technique showing the mapping of analog controller roots into the digital domain is illustrated. The performances of the digital control systems resulting from different emulation techniques are compared.
Simulation of a Fixed Pitch Wind Turbine Powered Induction Generator in EMTP
Authors: Perahia J. , Nayar C. V.
Published: July 2017

Simulation of a fixed pitch wind turbine powered induction generator in EMTP

Described are two models of a fixed pitch wind turbine drive train coupled to an induction generator compatible with the Electromagnetic Transients Program (EMTP). The models require wind speed or turbine torque changes. Model performance is studied on a 30 kW commercial arrangement.
A Spreadsheet Macro as a Teaching and Learning aid for Solving Electrical Networks
Authors: Eliahu M. , Ronen M.
Published: July 2017

A spreadsheet macro as a teaching and learning aid for solving electrical networks

The main method for solving electrical networks is based on matrix representation of the circuit. For any non trivial circuit this method is rather dfficult to follow since it involves a multi-stage solution procedure. This article describes a computerised environment, based on electronic spreadsheet macros, which was developed to facilitate the teaching and learning of solving electrical networks.
Comparison of Power Definitions in the Presence of Waveform Distortion
Authors: Eguiluz L. I. , Arrillaga J.
Published: July 2017

Comparison of power definitions in the presence of waveform distortion

In this paper, several definitions of reactive and apparent power in the non-sinusoidal regime are analysed and their repercussions in energy-billing are assessed. The classical method of optimisation by capacitor bank is considered to be problematic since it produces frequent resonances and increased harmonic distortion.
Pspice Modelling of Photovoltaic Arrays
Authors: Katan Ramzye. , Agelidis Vassilios G. , Nayar Chem V.
Published: July 2017

PSPICE modelling of photovoltaic arrays

A detailed model of a photovoltaic array written in PSPICE is presented in this paper. The powerful graphics post-processor that accompanies the software program is used to display array characteristics as a function of certain parameters such as insulation and temperature. Advantages include model capability to incorporate data taken from any commercially available solar panel. This is demonstrated in detail through a simple example.
Experiences with High-Level Design and Modelling of Digital Systems
Authors: Sangwine S. J.
Published: July 2017

Experiences with high-level design and modelling of digital systems

Design and modelling of digital systems has been taught at the University of Reading for six years, using Silvar-Lisco HELIX and lately IEEE Standard VHDL hardware description languages. Three exercises have been used throughout this time. These are: modelling of a multiplier-accumulator, design and modelling of a transversal filter, and specification-level modelling of a FIFO.
Matlab for Windows Software AID in a Mobile Communications Course
Authors: Fontan F. P. , Seoane A. , Castro M. V.
Published: July 2017

Matlab for windows software aid in a mobile communications course

A simple model for the teaching of land mobile communication channel issues has been implemented. The landscapes the mobile terminal traverses are described in terms screens, point scatterers, reflectors, etc. By using simple ray tracing techniques all multipath contributions arriving at the receiver are evaluated and the most relevant channel parameters are computed.
The Fundamentals of Electromagnetism Revisited
Authors: Ibbotson L.
Published: July 2017

The fundamentals of electromagnetism revisited

In this note the author attempts to articulate the theoretical model of electromagnetism used by electrical engineers. Despite the success of this model, physicists persist in using a different, and in the author's opinion, inferior, model to explain macroscopic electromagnetic phenomena.
Methodology and Case Tools in Real-Time Embedded Systems
Authors: Cooling J. E.
Published: July 2017

Methodology and CASE tools in real-time embedded systems

This paper discusses key aspects of software engineering methods and associated CASE (Computer Aided Software Engineering) tools in the undergraduate curriculum. The context is that of first degree courses in Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering, with particular reference to real-time embedded systems.
On The Presentation of the Laws of Electromagnetism
Authors: Jacobs Pierre
Published: July 2017

On the presentation of the laws of electromagnetism

Some books on electromagnetism follow a deductive approach; other books follow an inductive approach. It is shown that an approach intermediate between the purely deductive and the purely inductive approaches allows a more rational presentation of the laws of electromagnetism.
An Undergraduate Experiment: The Determination of the Structure of Ge and Si Based Bipolar Transistors
Authors: MÁRtil I. , Martínez F. L. , Lucía M. L.
Published: July 2017

We present an experimental procedure to measure physical parameters of Ge-alloyed and Si-diffused discrete bipolar junction transistors. By measuring properly both the I–V and C–V characteristics, we determine the doping of the emitter, base and collector zones and also the emitter and collector areas.
Development of a Low-Cost and Portable Tomographic Instrument Based on Gamma-Rays Transmission Sensor
Authors: Abdullah M. Z. , Tajuddin A. A.
Published: July 2017

Even though computerised tomography (CT) is a widely used system for medical applications, however, it is still an expensive instrument for use in a common teaching laboratory environment. This paper describes the development of a low cost, laboratory-scale CT instrument based on gamma-rays transmission sensor.
Conception D'un Filtre Passe-Bas En Technologie Microruban
Authors: Bekhti Mohammed
Published: July 2017

The article describes the design of a fifth order low pass filter using microstrip technology. Mathematical expressions are derived for this case (fifth order) and all component values are shown.
Electric Vehicle Technology — A Timely Course for Electrical Engineering Students
Authors: Chau K. T. , Chan C. C.
Published: July 2017

A new optional course, Electric Vehicle Technology, for final-year electrical engineering undergraduate students is presented. The purpose is to provide the students with up-to-date and comprehensive knowledge on electric vehicle technology. This paper outlines the rationale of the course, as well as describing the course structure, reference materials, field demonstrations, course work and course evaluation.
Endurance of Polyurethane Automotive Seating Foams under Varying Temperature and Humidity Conditions
Authors: Broos R. , Herrington R. M. , Casati F. M.
Published: July 2017

The long-term comfort and durability properties of the flexible molded foams used in many forms of transportation seating are a subject of increasing interest to foam molders and seat producers. Existing and proposed new specifications for load bearing and other fatigue losses have necessitated a new look at the fundamental understanding of why foam properties change with temperature and humidity.

In previous papers we have demonstrated the broad range of performance that can be expected from the well established and finely tuned chemistries (Hot Cure, TDI HR, MDI HR and TM-20 HR) currently used to make molded seating foams all around the world. Our focus turns now to a more fundamental study of the mechano-sorptive properties of these alternative foams in order to understand the mechanisms by which temperature and moisture cause changes in the foamed polymers. It was postulated that by knowing the exact sites of the water attack on the polymer, new ideas for improving important performance characteristics like wet compression set and tropical fatigue would arise.

To get to the details of how temperature and moisture affect the mechanical response of a polyurethane network, we studied compression sets over a wide range of conditions and correlated those data with morphology changes obtained from spectroscopic studies and with traditional dynamic fatigue tests conducted in similar conditions. Additional insight into the reorganization of the polymer networks was gained from detailed analysis of the foam's dynamic mechanical performance under the influence of transient moisture conditions.

We are now able to present a more comprehensive picture of the mechanisms behind the phenomena of wet compression set and tropical fatigue. This knowledge will be helpful to those striving to develop new raw materials and formulations for the next generation of transportation seating foams.
An Insight into the Characteristics of a Nucleation Catalyst in CFC-Free Rigid Foam Systems
Authors: Yoshimura H. , Tamano Y. , Okuzono S. , Lowe D. W.
Published: July 2017

The establishment of CFC-free polyurethane foam systems, aimed at total CFC elimination by the year 1995, is of paramount importance in the present day polyurethane foam technology. Especially in rigid foam systems, the attempts to apply a variety of alternative blowing agents such as HCFC-22, -141b, and -142b, HFC-134a and -356, and hydrocarbons such as n-pentane, isopentane and cyclopentane, as well as all-water blown systems, are being examined.

In all cases of alternative blown systems, however, there exist differences in foaming behavior as well as inferior foam properties compared to traditional CFC-11 blown systems. Especially in HCFC-141b and cyclopentane blown systems, which have gained the greatest interest among the above-mentioned options, the following three subjects are of major concern. The requirements involved in achieving the resolution of these problems are dependent not only on the development of major raw materials but also on the selection of suitable auxiliary intermediates such as catalysts and foam stabilizers. (1) Thermal Conductivity; HCFC-141b, cyclopentane and carbon dioxide, which is generated from the reaction of water and isocyanate, have high thermal conductivity compared to CFC-11, thereby causing inferior insulation performance of the foam. Fine cell technology is now being examined in order to improve the thermal conductivity. For the achievement of the fine cell structure, the selection of suitable amine catalyst systems is important, although the effect of foaming stabilizers has an especially large contribution. (2) Dimensional Stability; not only in all-water blown systems, but also in HCFC-141b and cyclopentane blown systems which use water in high concentration, dimensional stability becomes a large problem due to the diffusion of carbon dioxide gas from the foam cell. For the improvement of dimensional stability, there exists the option to increase the foam strength; moreover, it is important to improve the isotropy of cell structure by adjusting amine catalyst systems. (3) Foam density; since 141b and cyclopentane have relatively higher boiling points and less blowing efficiency, lowering the foam density becomes rather difficult. Moreover, lower foam density normally provides poor dimensional stability. It can be said that the catalytic activity ratio in blowing/gelling of amine catalysts play an important role for the lowering of foam density with improved dimensional stability.

It is very difficult to improve these three factors simultaneously. In this report, however, the improvements of these subjects are discussed from a standpoint of amine catalysts; also special newly developed nucleation catalyst systems are introduced for cyclopentane and HCFC-141b blown systems.
Creep and Recovery of Polyolefin Foams—Deformation Mechanisms
Authors: Mills N. J. , Gilcrist A.
Published: July 2017

The effects of gas compression and Poisson's ratio on the compressive stress-strain curves of closed cell foams have been analysed. The contributions of hardening, polymer viscoelasticity, and gas escape on creep are examined. The foam diffusivity for air was predicted from the polymer permeability and the foam density. Diffusivity values, derived from fitting creep curves of LDPE and EVA foams, are of the correct order of magnitude. Creep is dominated by the polymer viscoelasticity if the stress is less than the yield stress, but at higher stresses gas compression takes an increasing proportion of the load. Gas escape is a creep mechanism operating on a timescale that depends on the size of the foam block. The consequences of the high gas diffusivity on the creep design for polyolefin foams are discussed.
Molecular Structure of the Hard Segments in Flexible Foams
Authors: Mertes J. , Stutz H. , Schrepp W. , Kreyenschmidt M.
Published: July 2017

The main basis of structure-property-relationships of polymeric materials is a good characterization of the structure under study. Such is the case for cross linked polyurethanes such as flexible foams. To overcome the problems of solubility of these materials, a selective degradation process was used, leaving the hard segments unaffected. These were then analyzed by MALDI-TOF (Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption-Ionization Time of Flight mass spectrometry).

Using these techniques, the length distribution of the hard segments was examined. It was found that the length of the hard segments decreases much slower for polyester foams than for polyether foams. This fact was attributed to a lower solubility of the hard segments in polyethers, which leads to an earlier onset of phase separation. Thus, both mobility and reactivity of the segments in the segregated hard domains are reduced. This fact also explains why the length of the hard segments is only slightly dependent on the water content, or the index, at least in polyether foams.

Chemical differences such as the incorporation of polymeric MDI or reactive catalysts could also be shown. Furthermore, this work shows for the first time that presence of cyclic hard segments could be established in a foam.
Some Aspects of Matrix Formation of Flexible Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Falke P. , Kudoke C. , Rotermund I. , Zaschke B.
Published: July 2017

The reaction of liquid raw materials like isocyanates, polyols, and water, to build a structural polymer network is a very complex sequence of different chemical reactions.

We can describe some of these essential processes by the use of a dynamic measurement of the viscosity during the course of the foaming reaction, on-line FTIR-spectrometry measurements and the determination of the curing behaviour.

We employed a laboratory FT-IR system, that was interfaced to an optical fibre loop. The formation of the soluble and associated urea species, the decay of isocyanate groups and the development of urethane species during the polymerization reaction were studied by FT-IR. The onset of the formation of associated urea species is influenced by the chemical composition of the reacting mixture.

For the viscosity measurements we used a rotational viscosimeter. The network development was shown by the determination of the viscosity profile.

By extrapolation of the course of the indentation force over time, estimated after the demould of the flexible foam, we determined the green strength of the moulding and the vitrification of the foam at a frozen morphology.

We also illustrated the dependence of the mechanical properties of flexible PU foams on the chemical structures formed during the reaction.
Recent Developments in the Open Cell Foam-Filled Vacuum Insulated Panels for Appliances Applications
Authors: Manini Paolo
Published: July 2017

Polyurethane foam is the preferred insulator material in a wide range of appliances such as refrigerators and freezers. The recent phase out of CFC-11 has however decreased its insulation performance due to the need to adopt environmentally more benign blowing agents, such as HCFCs and hydrocarbons, all having higher gas thermal conductivity. This represents a serious drawback since specific regulations to reduce the energy consumption in refrigerators have been issued in recent years, and even more demanding reductions are under debate and expected to be applied worldwide by the turn of the century. In response to these requirements, Vacuum Insulated Panels (VIPs) technology has been studied and developed. Suitable components, filler, bag and a getter to maintain the necessary vacuum, have to be selected to ensure the high super-insulation properties which can be exhibited by VIPs. Among various core materials for VIPs, open cell foams present specific advantages in terms of performance, weight, processability and cost. In the present paper, the recent developments in the VIP technology are reviewed and discussed focusing the attention on the open cell polyurethane. The various gas sources deteriorating the vacuum during the panel life have been experimentally determined and evaluated by means of outgassing, permeation and gas analysis measurements on VIP components and finished devices. A suitable getter system able to cope with the gas load and to ensure vacuum performance and reliability is also described.
Quantification of Parameters Influencing the Long-Term Dimensional Stability Performance of Pentane Blown Laminates
Authors: Baes M. , Galina C. , Vanlandschoot K.
Published: July 2017

In view of the formulation changes induced by the use of alternative physical blowing agents, the understanding of the main parameters determining the dimensional stability performance was an important issue for the rigid laminate industry. So far, the influence of formulation and processing variables on dimensional stability has mainly been described qualitatively, and new evaluation techniques have been proposed in several publications.

This paper describes how the application of the so-called dimvac test has led to a better quantification of the formulation and processing parameters influencing the long-term dimensional stability performance.

A series of pentane blown laminates based on different formulations and processed on a variety of equipment were evaluated at the most severe condition in the dimvac test. We found that a set of formulation and processing requirements had to be fulfilled in order to ensure the dimensional stability of the laminates in service. The requirements were different for each formulation, production line and product.

To quantify the influence of polyether polyol composition and type of non-reactive liquid fire retardant, a systematic laboratory study was carried out. For foams without fire retardant, a clear model was obtained predicting the dimvac performance in terms of foam density and polymer network parameters. For formulations including fire retardants, deviations from the model were observed, and differentiation between dilution and plasticization could be made.
A New Cell Opening Mechanism in Flexible Polyurethane Foam
Authors: Zhang X. D. , Davis H. T. , Macosko C. W
Published: July 2017

Literature on the polyurethane foam cell opening mechanism is reviewed and discussed. A new cell opening mechanism is proposed. Cell opening is observed to be triggered by urea precipitation which changes the rheology of the polyurethane dramatically. The foam matrix shows extensional thinning behavior after urea phase separation. The extensional thinning behavior will lead to localized cell window thinning.

The cell window thickness distribution will lead to different film rupture times for individual cell windows and will result in cell windows in different states. Some windows are totally missing and others leave torn-off films. Windows with only pin holes or totally closed were also observed. The cell opening event is shown to be a continuous process rather than a sudden event.
Roles of Conventional Polyol and Isocyanate in Humid Aging and Durability of Molded Seating Foam
Authors: Neff R. A. , Marsalko T. M.
Published: July 2017

As the physical property requirements for molded seating foam increase in severity, the desired humid aged properties become more difficult to achieve. Thus a knowledge of the factors influencing these properties becomes increasingly valuable. This paper describes the initial part of a study into the effects of conventional polyol and isocyanate structures on the durability and humid aging of flexible molded foam.

A series of conventional polyols was synthesized and evaluated in an all-TDI molded foam formulation (32 kg/M3 density), with emphasis on compression set, dynamic fatigue (constant force pounding) and humid aging. FTIR was used to measure the effect of humid aging on the hard domain microstructure. The compression set data suggest that increasing the polyol ethylene oxide (EO) cap (endblock) size accelerates humid aging, and the overall EO content (including EO added randomly to the internal block) is important to longer term humid aging (such as during the "wet set" test). The effects of nominal functionality, equivalent weight and unsaturation (monol) content were also measured. Dynamic fatigue (hardness loss) increased with the amount of cross linking in the foam, which increases with decreasing equivalent weight, decreasing unsaturation level and increasing functionality. Humid aging had little effect on the dynamic fatigue.

Additionally, several different isocyanates (including monomeric MDI, a modified monomeric MDI and polymeric MDI) were evaluated in a similar molded foam formulation. This series of foams was subjected to alternating cycles of humid aging and pounding, and a series of physical properties was measured following each cycle. The sensitivities of peak tensile and wet compression set to the amount of humid aging and fatigue correlated with the type of isocyanate. Higher isocyanate functionality decreased sensitivity to humid aging, due to formation of a permanent covalently bound network. Humid aging sensitivity was also affected by the packing behavior of the urea hard domains, which is controlled by the isocyanate structure. The effect of isocyanate on hard domain microstructure is further illustrated using dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DTMA).
Cyber Crime: A Growing Problem
Authors: Esen Rita
Published: July 2017

The openness of the global network has given rise to a need to protect Internet users against criminal activities online. The escalating incidents of cyber crime have moved lawmakers in different systems to focus on these new and growing problems as they seek to put in place legal procedures and frameworks to combat Internet-related offences. The global nature of cyber crime has moved various governments and international organisations to promulgate laws and adopt international agreements that will combat Internet crimes. These steps are being taken to give Internet users confidence by ensuring certainty in the legal requirements relating to the use of the global network.
Speed of Utterance in Phrases of Different Lengths
Authors: Fónagy I. , Magdics K.
Published: July 2017

This paper discusses the relation between the length of phrases and the speed of utterance. The dependence of speed on the length of phrases can well be expressed by means of exponential functions.
The Organization of a Russian-English Stem Dictionary on Magnetic Tape
Authors: Davies D. W.
Published: July 2017

The organisation of a dictionary on magnetic tape is described. A single pass of the dictionary tape is sufficient to process a block of text words without reverse motion. Most Russian words are represented in all their inflected forms by a single entry in the dictionary. Even irregular nouns can usually be represented by two entries, but many verbs require two or three entries. The space occupied by an entry is very little greater than that required for a single inflected form. Mobile vowels are treated with very little extra space or complication of programme. The form of the entries is designed so that a simple technique for interpreting the inflections can be used. This is outlined at the end of the paper.
Temporal Patterns of Cognitive Activity and Breath Control in Speech
Authors: Henderson Alan , Goldman-Eisler Frieda , Skarbek Andrew
Published: July 2017

Two aspects of spontaneous speech, the cognitive and the syntactic, were examined as potential regulators of the incidence of breathing during speech. During passages of prose read aloud breaths were taken exclusively at gaps in speech designated as grammatical junctures. During samples of spontaneous speech approximately one third of the breaths were taken at gaps in speech which could not be so described.

The sequential temporal structuring of spontaneous speech reveals passages which appear principally to be given over to decisions about content alternating with fluent passages which appear to be the product of the preceding passage. Passages primarily characterised by cognition have a significantly lower proportion of breaths taken at grammatical junctures than the more fluent passages.
Psycholinguistic Analysis of Aphasic Language: Theoretical Formulations and Procedures
Authors: Spreen Otfried , Wachal Robert S.
Published: July 2017

This paper presents the background, rationale, and examples for a comprehensive psycholinguistic study of free speech samples obtained from 50 adult aphasics in comparison with those obtained from 50 adult normal speakers. Procedures developed for the recording, transcription, and coding of the speech samples and the analysis of the data with regard to measures of lexical diversity, morphological complexity and grammatical form-class usage, generative-syntactic complexity, sentence length, abnormal productions and of paralinguistic features (rate of speech, pauses, pause fillers, vocal gestures, etc.) are described. First results of a pilot study with 20 aphasic and 20 normal speakers are reported. Hypotheses of the project include differences between the linguistic performance of normal and aphasic speakers on a combination of variables as well as the existence of specific types of aphasia which can eventually be related to medical findings.
The Effect of Delayed Auditory Feedback on Reading as a Function of the Syllabic Length of the Words
Authors: Dalrymple-Alford E.C.
Published: July 2017

Passages consisting of randomly arranged (a) monosyllabic, (b) bisyllabic, and (c) trisyllabic words were read under conditions of immediate and delayed auditory feedback. The hypothesis tested was that the effect of delaying feedback would increase disproportionately with the syllabic length of the words read. The results, however, indicated that delayed feedback increased `vocal' time by a constant proportion unaffected by syllabic length.
Identifying Speech Acts from Contextual and Linguistic Information
Authors: Abbeduto Leonard , Furman Laurie , Davies Betty
Published: July 2017

We conducted an experiment to examine the comprehension of interrogatives such as Could you make the pencil roll?, which can be intended as yes—no questions, as directives to perform an action, or as both. Clark (1979) has claimed that the comprehension of such sentences is governed by, among other things, the answer obviousness rule; that is, listeners are more likely to interpret such a sentence as a question if the question posed is non-obvious to the speaker. One purpose of the present experiment was to test Clark's claim. A second purpose was to begin identifying the types of contextual information listeners use in comprehending speech acts. The final purpose was to provide data relevant to the controversy about whether listeners evaluate the syntactically direct, literal meaning of a sentence in the course of arriving at a syntactically indirect interpretation. We found that listeners follow an answer obviousness rule, utilize their knowledge of objects and the actions they allow as context for sentence interpretation, and do sometimes evaluate the syntactically direct reading of a sentence before arriving at an indirect speech act.
The Mora and Syllable Structure in Japanese: Evidence from Speech Errors
Authors: Kubozono Haruo
Published: July 2017

The goal of this paper is to demonstrate the role and reality of the linguistic unit called ‘mora’ in Japanese through analysis of several types of speech error and other linguistic phenomena. It is shown that the mora is an indispensable notion for the description and generalization of the patterns underlying speech errors in Japanese. Specifically, analysis of blend errors suggests that mora boundaries are the most common switch point in Japanese, which supports the conception of the linguistic construct as being a psychologically real unit of speech production. in addition to the question of the mora, some related questions are also addressed, notably the psychological reality of the syllable and the syllable constituents of Japanese.
In Defense of an Onset-Rime Syllable Structure for English
Authors: Treiman Rebecca , Kessler Brett
Published: July 2017

Many linguists and psycholinguists have suggested that English syllables have an-onset-rime structure. Pierrehumbert and Nair (1995) have recently argued against this view and in favor of the idea that syllables have a moraic structure. We show that the results of word game experiments reported by Pierrehumbert and Nair are consistent with the onset-rime theory and that there are problems with their idea of output templates. Although people may learn about the phonological structure of a word game's output when they have a chance to do so, they tend to divide syllables at the boundary between the onset and the rime even when they do not have the opportunity to memorize a model. Moreover, the results of our recent statistical study of the distributions of phonemes in English syllables suggest that the rime is a domain for particularly close dependencies among phonemes. We conclude that Pierrehumbert and Nair's rejection of the onset-rime model was overly hasty and was based on a limited set of data. When a broad range of data is considered, the evidence supports the idea that English syllables have an onset-rime structure.
Control of a Batch Dyeing Process with Three Acid Dyes
Authors: Jasper Warren J. , Joshi Ritcha P.
Published: July 2017

The process of dyeing of nylon with tertiary acid dye mixtures is controlled by automatic metering of dyes and chemicals. Closed-loop control is achieved by real-time data acquisition of the dyebath conditions coupled with a feedback control strategy. The objective of controlled dyeing is to obtain an on-tone build-up of shade using three monosulfonated acid dyes in mixture combinations. Computerized dosing pumps control the pH, the dyebath concentrations of the individual dyes, and the total sorption of each dye during the process. Photographs of yarn cross sections examined under the polarizing microscope reveal uniform penetration of dye in the individual fibers of the yarns. Color matching of samples dyed under identical dyeing conditions shows good shade reproducibility. It is also possible to re-use a dyebath of residual dyes and chemicals from a previous dyeing. Thus, good shade reproducibility and uniform shade build-up can be achieved in a laboratory dyeing machine by adopting real-time closed-loop control.