bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethnic Groups Differences in Domestic Recovery after the Catastrophe: A Case Study of the 2008 Magnitude 7.9 Earthquake in China
Authors: Wang Ying , Zhu Yingqi , Sui Qi
Published: June 2017

This research examined the ethnic differences in domestic recovery after the 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake in China. In 2014, 866 valid questionnaires were collected. Han and Qiang & Zang households were analyzed using logistic regression to determine the factors influencing household recovery. It was found that the householder of the Qiang & Zang group played a more important role in household recovery. Different from the Han, females from Qiang & Zang households had negative attitudes on recovery, and Qiang & Zang households did not believe in the effectiveness of public donations for post-quake recovery. The study also showed that local workers in a household were more helpful for household recovery than were migrant workers in a household, regardless of ethnicity. Therefore, the government should create more local jobs in Han and Qiang & Zang households and pay more attention to women in Qiang households. Assistance should be established specifically for the psychological recovery of Qiang women and family recovery projects.
Reduced Dietary Selenium Impairs Vascular Function by Increasing Oxidative Stress in Sprague-Dawley Rat Aortas
Authors: Stupin Ana , Cosic Anita , Novak Sanja , Vesel Monika , Jukic Ivana , Popovic Brigita , Karalic Krunoslav , Loncaric Zdenko , Drenjancevic Ines
Published: June 2017

This study aimed to determine whether low dietary Se content affects the function and mechanisms mediating the vascular relaxation of rat aortas, and to test the role of oxidative stress in observed differences. Male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were maintained for 10 weeks on low Se (low-Se group; N = 20) or normal Se content (norm-Se group; N = 20) rat chow. Dose responses to acetylcholine (ACh; 10−9–10−5M) and the response to reduced pO2 were tested in noradrenaline-precontracted aortic rings in the absence/presence of the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME), the cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 (COX-1, 2) inhibitor Indomethacin, and the antioxidative agent Tempol in tissue bath. mRNA expression of glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx1), catalase (CAT), and Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD) was measured in rat aortas. Oxidative stress (Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances; TBARS), antioxidative plasma capacity (ferric reducing ability of plasma assay; FRAP), and protein levels of GPx1 were measured in plasma and serum samples, respectively. Reduced ACh-induced relaxation (AChIR) (dominantly mediated by NO) in the low-Se group compared to the norm-Se group was restored by Tempol administration. Hypoxia-induced relaxation (HIR) (dominantly mediated by COX-1, 2), TBARS, and FRAP as well as GPx1 serum concentrations were similar between the groups. mRNA GPx1 expression in rat aortas was significantly decreased in the low-Se compared to the norm-Se group. These data suggest that low dietary Se content increases the local oxidative stress level, which subsequently affects the NO-mediated vascular response.
Gene Expression (mRNA) Markers for Differentiating between Malignant and Benign Follicular Thyroid Tumours
Authors: Wojtas Bartosz , Pfeifer Aleksandra , Oczko-Wojciechowska Malgorzata , Krajewska Jolanta , Czarniecka Agnieszka , Kukulska Aleksandra , Eszlinger Markus , Musholt Thomas , Stokowy Tomasz , Swierniak Michal , Stobiecka Ewa , Chmielik Ewa , Rusinek Dagmara , Tyszkiewicz Tomasz , Halczok Monika , Hauptmann Steffen , Lange Dariusz , Jarzab Michal , Paschke Ralf , Jarzab Barbara
Published: June 2017

Distinguishing between follicular thyroid cancer (FTC) and follicular thyroid adenoma (FTA) constitutes a long-standing diagnostic problem resulting in equivocal histopathological diagnoses. There is therefore a need for additional molecular markers. To identify molecular differences between FTC and FTA, we analyzed the gene expression microarray data of 52 follicular neoplasms. We also performed a meta-analysis involving 14 studies employing high throughput methods (365 follicular neoplasms analyzed). Based on these two analyses, we selected 18 genes differentially expressed between FTA and FTC. We validated them by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in an independent set of 71 follicular neoplasms from formaldehyde-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue material. We confirmed differential expression for 7 genes (CPQ, PLVAP, TFF3, ACVRL1, ZFYVE21, FAM189A2, and CLEC3B). Finally, we created a classifier that distinguished between FTC and FTA with an accuracy of 78%, sensitivity of 76%, and specificity of 80%, based on the expression of 4 genes (CPQ, PLVAP, TFF3, ACVRL1). In our study, we have demonstrated that meta-analysis is a valuable method for selecting possible molecular markers. Based on our results, we conclude that there might exist a plausible limit of gene classifier accuracy of approximately 80%, when follicular tumors are discriminated based on formalin-fixed postoperative material.
Gene-Diet Interactions in Type 2 Diabetes: The Chicken and Egg Debate
Authors: Ortega Ángeles , Berná Genoveva , Rojas Anabel , Martín Franz , Soria Bernat
Published: June 2017

Consistent evidence from both experimental and human studies indicates that Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a complex disease resulting from the interaction of genetic, epigenetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Nutrients and dietary patterns are important environmental factors to consider in the prevention, development and treatment of this disease. Nutritional genomics focuses on the interaction between bioactive food components and the genome and includes studies of nutrigenetics, nutrigenomics and epigenetic modifications caused by nutrients. There is evidence supporting the existence of nutrient-gene and T2DM interactions coming from animal studies and family-based intervention studies. Moreover, many case-control, cohort, cross-sectional cohort studies and clinical trials have identified relationships between individual genetic load, diet and T2DM. Some of these studies were on a large scale. In addition, studies with animal models and human observational studies, in different countries over periods of time, support a causative relationship between adverse nutritional conditions during in utero development, persistent epigenetic changes and T2DM. This review provides comprehensive information on the current state of nutrient-gene interactions and their role in T2DM pathogenesis, the relationship between individual genetic load and diet, and the importance of epigenetic factors in influencing gene expression and defining the individual risk of T2DM.
Parameters for Fabricating Nano-Au Colloids through the Electric Spark Discharge Method with Micro-Electrical Discharge Machining
Authors: Tseng Kuo-Hsiung , Chung Meng-Yun , Chang Chaur-Yang
Published: June 2017

In this study, the Electric Spark Discharge Method (ESDM) was employed with micro-electrical discharge machining (m-EDM) to create an electric arc that melted two electrodes in deionized water (DW) and fabricated nano-Au colloids through pulse discharges with a controlled on–off duration (TON–TOFF) and a total fabrication time of 1 min. A total of six on–off settings were tested under normal experimental conditions and without the addition of any chemical substances. Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), Zetasizer Nano measurements, and scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray (SEM–EDX) analyses suggested that the nano-Au colloid fabricated at 10–10 µs (10 µs on, 10 µs off) had higher concentration and suspension stability than products made at other TON–TOFF settings. The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of the colloid was 549 nm on the first day of fabrication and stabilized at 532 nm on the third day. As the TON–TOFF period increased, the absorbance (i.e., concentration) of all nano-Au colloids decreased. Absorbance was highest at 10–10 µs. The SPR peaks stabilized at 532 nm across all TON–TOFF periods. The Zeta potential at 10–10 µs was −36.6 mV, indicating that no nano-Au agglomeration occurred and that the particles had high suspension stability.
Vitamin C Depletion and All-Cause Mortality in Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: Sotomayor Camilo G. , Eisenga Michele F. , Gomes Neto Antonio W. , Ozyilmaz Akin , Gans Rijk O.B. , Jong Wilhelmina H.A. de , Zelle Dorien M. , Berger Stefan P. , Gaillard Carlo A. J.M. , Navis Gerjan J. , Bakker Stephan J.L.
Published: June 2017

Vitamin C may reduce inflammation and is inversely associated with mortality in the general population. We investigated the association of plasma vitamin C with all-cause mortality in renal transplant recipients (RTR); and whether this association would be mediated by inflammatory biomarkers. Vitamin C, high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), soluble intercellular cell adhesion molecule 1 (sICAM-1), and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (sVCAM-1) were measured in a cohort of 598 RTR. Cox regression analyses were used to analyze the association between vitamin C depletion (≤28 µmol/L; 22% of RTR) and mortality. Mediation analyses were performed according to Preacher and Hayes’s procedure. At a median follow-up of 7.0 (6.2–7.5) years, 131 (21%) patients died. Vitamin C depletion was univariately associated with almost two-fold higher risk of mortality (Hazard ratio (HR) 1.95; 95% confidence interval (95%CI) 1.35–2.81, p < 0.001). This association remained independent of potential confounders (HR 1.74; 95%CI 1.18–2.57, p = 0.005). Hs-CRP, sICAM-1, sVCAM-1 and a composite score of inflammatory biomarkers mediated 16, 17, 15, and 32% of the association, respectively. Vitamin C depletion is frequent and independently associated with almost two-fold higher risk of mortality in RTR. It may be hypothesized that the beneficial effect of vitamin C at least partly occurs through decreasing inflammation.
Seabuckthorn Leaves Extract and Flavonoid Glycosides Extract from Seabuckthorn Leaves Ameliorates Adiposity, Hepatic Steatosis, Insulin Resistance, and Inflammation in Diet-Induced Obesity
Authors: Kwon Eun-Young , Lee Jeonghyeon , Kim Ye , Do Ara , Choi Ji-Young , Cho Su-Jung , Jung Un , Lee Mi-Kyung , Park Yong , Choi Myung-Sook
Published: June 2017

The aim of the current study was to elucidate the effect of seabuckthorn leaves (SL) extract and flavonoid glycosides extract from seabuckthorn leaves (SLG) on diet-induced obesity and related metabolic disturbances, and additionally, to identify whether flavonoid glycosides and other components in SL can exert a possible interaction for the prevention of metabolic diseases by comparing the effect of SL and SLG. C57BL/6J mice were fed a normal diet (ND, AIN-93G purified diet), high-fat diet (HFD, 60 kcal% fat), HFD + 1.8% (w/w) SL (SL), and HFD + 0.04% (w/w) SLG (SLG) for 12 weeks. In high fat-fed mice, SL and SLG decreased the adiposity by suppressing lipogenesis in adipose tissue, while increasing the energy expenditure. SL and SLG also improved hepatic steatosis by suppressing hepatic lipogenesis and lipid absorption, whilst also enhancing hepatic fatty acid oxidation, which may be linked to the improvement in dyslipidemia. Moreover, SL and SLG improved insulin sensitivity by suppressing the levels of plasma GIP that were modulated by secreted resistin and pro-inflammatory cytokine, and hepatic glucogenic enzyme activities. SL, especially its flavonoid glycosides (SLG), can protect against the deleterious effects of diet-induced obesity (DIO) and its metabolic complications such as adiposity, dyslipidemia, inflammation, hepatic steatosis, and insulin resistance.
New Mechanism Proposed for the Base-Catalyzed Urea–Formaldehyde Condensation Reactions: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Li Taohong , Cao Ming , Liang Jiankun , Xie Xiaoguang , Du Guanben
Published: June 2017

Base-catalyzed urea–formaldehyde condensation reactions were investigated by using a quantum chemistry method. It was found that monomethylolurea or N,N’-dimethylolurea can produce the methyleneurea intermediate (–HN–CO–N=CH2) with the catalysis of base. The E1cb (unimolecular elimination of conjugate base) mechanism was identified for the formation of such an intermediate. The potential energy barrier was theoretically predicted to be 59.6 kJ/mol for the E1cb step, which is about half of that of previously proposed SN2 (bimolecular nucleophilic substitution) mechanism. In the subsequentcondensation reactions, Michael addition reactions that lead to different condensed structures can occur between the methyleneurea intermediate and the anions produced from methylolureas under alkaline conditions. Based on the theoretical calculations on the kinetics and thermodynamics of the selected reactions, the competitive formations of methylene linkages, ether linkages and uron were discussed in combination with our previous experimental observations.
Epoxidized Jatropha Oil as a Sustainable Plasticizer to Poly(lactic Acid)
Authors: Chieng Buong Woei , Ibrahim Nor Azowa , Then Yoon Yee , Loo Yuet Ying
Published: June 2017

A renewable resource, epoxidized jatropha oil (EJO), was used as a green plasticizer and added to poly(lactic acid) (PLA). EJO was compounded into PLA at different contents. The addition of 3 wt % EJO to the PLA demonstrates significant improvement in flexibility, which leads to a percentage increase of about 7000% in elongation at break. This tensile result was confirmed by surface morphology analysis with clear proof of plastic deformation in EJO-plasticized PLA. EJO imparts a good heat stabilization effect. Thermal stability of PLA was enhanced upon addition of EJO, which is due to their good interaction and plasticizer dispersion within the PLA matrix. This EJO-plasticized PLA has wide applications in various industries, such as packaging of food and non-food products.
Towards Citizen Co-Created Public Service Apps
Authors: Emaldi Mikel , Aguilera Unai , López-de-Ipiña Diego , Pérez-Velasco Jorge
Published: June 2017

WeLive project’s main objective is about transforming the current e-government approach by providing a new paradigm based on a new open model oriented towards the design, production and deployment of public services and mobile apps based on the collaboration of different stakeholders. These stakeholders form the quadruple helix, i.e., citizens, private companies, research institutes and public administrations. Through the application of open innovation, open data and open services paradigms, the framework developed within the WeLive project enables the co-creation of urban apps. In this paper, we extend the description of the WeLive platform presented at , plus the preliminary results of the first pilot phase. The two-phase evaluation methodology designed and the evaluation results of first pilot sub-phase are also presented.
Investigation of Azimuth Multichannel Reconstruction for Moving Targets in High Resolution Wide Swath SAR
Authors: Tan Weixian , Xu Wei , Huang Pingping , Huang Zengshu , Qi Yaolong , Han Kuoye
Published: June 2017

The azimuth multichannel imaging scheme with the large receive antenna divided into multiple sub-apertures usually leads to azimuth non-uniform sampling, and echoes from all azimuth channels should be reconstructed based on the signal model before conventional SAR imaging. Unfortunately, the multichannel signal model of a moving target is different from that of a fixed target. This paper analyzes the multichannel signal model of the moving target and the effect of the target velocity on azimuth multichannel reconstruction. Based on the multichannel signal mode of the moving target, a new multichannel signal reconstruction algorithm is proposed. Furthermore, the slant range velocity is estimated by computing signal energy distribution. Simulation results on point targets validate the proposed approach.
A Map/INS/Wi-Fi Integrated System for Indoor Location-Based Service Applications
Authors: Yu Chunyang , Lan Haiyu , Gu Fuqiang , Yu Fei , El-Sheimy Naser
Published: June 2017

In this research, a new Map/INS/Wi-Fi integrated system for indoor location-based service (LBS) applications based on a cascaded Particle/Kalman filter framework structure is proposed. Two-dimension indoor map information, together with measurements from an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) value, are integrated for estimating positioning information. The main challenge of this research is how to make effective use of various measurements that complement each other in order to obtain an accurate, continuous, and low-cost position solution without increasing the computational burden of the system. Therefore, to eliminate the cumulative drift caused by low-cost IMU sensor errors, the ubiquitous Wi-Fi signal and non-holonomic constraints are rationally used to correct the IMU-derived navigation solution through the extended Kalman Filter (EKF). Moreover, the map-aiding method and map-matching method are innovatively combined to constrain the primary Wi-Fi/IMU-derived position through an Auxiliary Value Particle Filter (AVPF). Different sources of information are incorporated through a cascaded structure EKF/AVPF filter algorithm. Indoor tests show that the proposed method can effectively reduce the accumulation of positioning errors of a stand-alone Inertial Navigation System (INS), and provide a stable, continuous and reliable indoor location service.
Departmental Structure, Cooperative Scholarship, and Productivity: A Fuzzy Set Qualitative-Comparative Analysis of Selected Sociology Departments
Authors: Madanipour Ali , Williams James , Sadri Mahmoud
Published: June 2017

Previous studies of scholarly productivity have neglected the impact of departmental and institutional structure on the outcome. This study examines the relationships between departmental and institutional structure, cooperative scholarship, and individualistic scholarship with productivity in 31 highly ranked sociology departments in the United States. We measure scholarly productivity by the number of peer reviewed articles that were published either jointly or individually by faculty members during 2009–2010. By applying fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis, we conclude that a combination of four conditions are associated with higher levels of scholarly productivity. These are: type of institution (public vs. private), proportion of tenured professors, individualistic scholarship, and cooperative scholarship. The results reveal that the conditions (independent variables) combine in different ways (pathways) to be sufficient for the outcome. Further, we conclude that cooperative scholarship and productivity are more complex constructs than suggested by previous literature and that there are multiple pathways by which departments may facilitate scholarly productivity. We address implications and recommendations for future research.
An Empirical Research of FDI Spillovers and Financial Development Threshold Effects in Different Regions of China
Authors: Wang Hui , Liu Huifang
Published: June 2017

Based on a comprehensive review of previous studies about the threshold effects of financial development on the process of foreign direct investment (FDI) spillovers, the present work roundly measures the financial development from the aspects of scale, structure, and efficiency and applies a multiple threshold regression model to estimate the threshold effects of financial development on FDI spillovers, and then examines the inherent relationship between FDI spillovers effects and the financial development from the three aspects, respectively, in different regions of China, based on regional panel data from 2000 to 2014. The results revealed that there are two thresholds of financial development scale, structure and efficiency, existing in the FDI spillover processes in different regions. The FDI spillovers effects are greatest in the eastern region and are generally smallest in the western region. There is a negative correlation between FDI spillovers effects and the financial development scale or efficiency in eastern and central region. Moreover, there is positive correlation between FDI spillovers effects and the financial development structure in eastern and central region. Additionally, there is a positive correlation between FDI spillovers effects and the financial development scale, structure, or efficiency in western region. The capital, labor, and regional technology progress have positive effects on economic growth in different regions and the effects of financial development on economic growth are not unanimous in each region. Based on the empirical results, some policies on how to develop regional finances and how to introduce FDI to promote economic growth are recommended.
Oxide Thin-Film Transistors on Fibers for Smart Textiles
Authors: Münzenrieder Niko , Vogt Christian , Petti Luisa , Salvatore Giovanni , Cantarella Giuseppe , Büthe Lars , Tröster Gerhard
Published: June 2017

Smart textiles promise to have a significant impact on future wearable devices. Among the different approaches to combine electronic functionality and fabrics, the fabrication of active fibers results in the most unobtrusive integration and optimal compatibility between electronics and textile manufacturing equipment. The fabrication of electronic devices, in particular transistors on heavily curved, temperature sensitive, and rough textiles fibers is not easily achievable using standard clean room technologies. Hence, we evaluated different fabrication techniques and multiple fibers made from polymers, cotton, metal and glass exhibiting diameters down to 125 μm. The benchmarked techniques include the direct fabrication of thin-film structures using a low temperature shadow mask process, and the transfer of thin-film transistors (TFTs) fabricated on a thin (≈1 μm) flexible polymer membrane. Both approaches enable the fabrication of working devices, in particular the transfer method results in fully functional transistor fibers, with an on-off current ratio > 10 7 , a threshold voltage of ≈0.8 V , and a field effect mobility exceeding 7 c m 2 V − 1 s − 1 . Finally, the most promising fabrication approach is used to integrate a commercial nylon fiber functionalized with InGaZnO TFTs into a woven textile.
A Simple Method for the Determination of Deposition Coefficient Using the Analytical Solution of Advection-Dispersion-Deposition Equation for Step Input
Authors: Choi Nag-Choul , Choi Jae-Woo , Kwon Kyu-Sang , Lee Sang-Gil , Kim Bong-Ju , Lee Soonjae
Published: June 2017

A simple method is proposed for the determination of the deposition coefficient, which plays an important role in bacterial transport in a porous media. The method relies on the analytical solution of an advection-dispersion-deposition equation for the step input of a bacterial solution. The step input solution can be simplified when time goes to infinity, and thereby the deposition coefficient can be obtained as a function of the maximum concentration and peclet number. The deposition coefficient given by the simple method yields a similar expression to those of previous studies with a slight modification. Comparison of the simple method with other methods revealed that it offers an advantange of a wider application, even to a square pulse input as well as step input of a bacterial solution, and that calculation of bacterial mass fraction is not required. Theoretical validation revealed that the method can be valid for the conditions of pulse duration greater than 0.8 pore volume in the column study with Pe 300–400.
Relationship Between Polymorphisms in Methotrexate Pathway Genes and Outcome of Methotrexate Treatment in a Cohort of 119 Patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Zajc Avramovič Mojca , Dolžan Vita , Toplak Nataša , Accetto Meta , Lusa Lara , Avčin Tadej
Published: June 2017

Objective.

To identify clinical and pharmacogenetic determinants of efficacy and toxicity of methotrexate (MTX) in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) over time.

Methods.

A cohort of 119 consecutive patients with JIA treated with MTX was reviewed. The Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score including 71 joints was used to measure disease activity. Nonresponders were patients who did not reach a minimum of 30% improvement after 6 months of treatment or were switched to biologic drugs in the first 6 months because of inefficacy. All adverse events (AE) were noted. Genotyping of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the genes coding for MTX transporters, folate pathway, and adenosine pathway was performed using real-time PCR methods. Univariate and multivariable penalized logistic and Cox regression were used to analyze data.

Results.

Thirty patients (25.8%) were defined as nonresponders and 55 (47.2%) were switched to biologics during the followup. Sixty-five patients (54.5%) reported AE in a total of 405 patient-years, and 10 patients (8.4%) discontinued MTX because of AE. AMPD1 rs17602729 and MTHFD1 rs2236225 were associated with gastrointestinal AE while the latter together with MTRR rs1801394 also demonstrated associations with developing hepatoxicity. MTHFR rs1801131, ABCG2 rs2231137, wild-type of MTR rs1805087, and wild-type of ABCC2 rs2273697 were identified as potential markers for discontinuing MTX treatment because of AE. MTHFR rs1801133, MTRR rs1801394, and ABCC2 rs2273697 were associated with switching to biologics.

Conclusion.

SNP in different MTX metabolic pathways influence treatment with MTX. Genetic variability is a better marker for toxicity than efficacy.
Resilient Learning: Towards Integration of Strategic Research Programmes, Higher Education Functions and Regional-National Development
Authors: Pirinen Rauno Ilmari
Published: June 2017

In this study, the concept of Learning by Research and Development (R&D) is furthered to the world of more resilient learning in the setting of security related R&D projects for development of co-creative products, services and action competence. The background of this study includes an interdisciplinary combination of service science, security, computer science, pedagogy, engineering, and management science. The interdisciplinary combination involves researchers, learners, teachers, and other participants connecting and integrating the academic disciplines, professions, and technologies, along with their methods and perspectives for co-creation of a common goal. This goal emphasizes results as high-value impacts, as well as the value of products, services, and innovations as “deliverables” of the integrative learning process. Until recently, the Learning by R&D model is clear and transparent; as such, it can be adopted by learning and R&D integration of other sciences and higher education institutions. The structure of the model is also easy to adapt and renew in case of a change, which means that it can develop from the inside on the one hand, and produce interactions, adaptions, resilience and innovations on the other.
Cellular Automata as an Example for Advanced Beginners’ Level Coding Exercises in a MOOC on Test Driven Development
Authors: Staubitz Thomas , Teusner Ralf , Meinel Christoph , Prakash Nishanth
Published: June 2017

Programming tasks are an important part of teaching computer programming as they foster students to develop essential programming skills and techniques through practice.  The design of educational problems plays a crucial role in the extent to which the experiential knowledge is imparted to the learner both in terms of quality and quantity. Badly designed tasks have been known to put-off students from practicing programming. Hence, there is a need for carefully designed problems. Cellular Automata programming lends itself as a very suitable candidate among problems designed for programming practice. In this paper, we describe how various types of problems can be designed using concepts from Cellular Automata and discuss the features which make them good practice problems with regard to instructional pedagogy. We also present a case study on a Cellular Automata programming exercise used in a MOOC on Test Driven Development using JUnit, and discuss the automated evaluation of code submissions and the feedback about the reception of this exercise by participants in this course. Finally, we suggest two ideas to facilitate an easier approach of creating such programming exercises.
Nonlinear Absorption and Limiting Behaviour of Monoclinic and Orthorhombic Copper Niobate
Authors: Priyadarshani N. , Sabari Girisun T.C.
Published: June 2017

Monoclinic and orthorhombic phase of copper niobate was prepared by simple solid state reaction (700°C, 900°C for 12 hours). Formation of two polymorphic phases of CuNb2O6 was ascertained by XRD and FTIR analysis. FESEM showed the presence of pore networks in both phases. Third-order optical nonlinearity and their limiting behaviour were studied by Z-scan technique using Ti: Sapphire laser (800 nm, 150 fs, 80 MHz). Both phases of copper niobate exhibit reverse saturable absorption. The observed optical limiting action was ascribed due to two-photon absorption process. Monoclinic copper niobate shows almost 100 times stronger nonlinear absorption behaviour than orthorhombic copper niobate due to peculiar distortion of NbO6 octahedra. Monoclinic copper niobate with high two photon absorption coefficient (85x10-10 m/W) and low limiting threshold (0.21 μJ/cm2) can be a better alternate for benchmark optical limiters like carbon nanotubes.
The Analysis on Energy-Saving Reconstruction on Condensing Heat Recovery System of Air-Conditioning System
Authors: Wu Xiang Dong , Liu Ze Hua
Published: June 2017

Combining with the energy consumption of air-conditioning system and the characteristics of the cooling and heating load in the hotel, the authors analyse the energy-saving property and necessity of adopting condensing heat recovery from water chillers. Taking the air-conditioning system of a star-hotel as an example, the optimization design for condensing heat recovery system from chillers on raising the temperature difference between supply and return water, the hot-water tanks in series and the water temperature stratification effectively realizes cascade and sequential utilization of hot-water, which keeps the water temperature stable and becomes more energy-saving.
Stability Analysis of an Underground Pumping Station Group of China
Authors: Chen De Ping , Liu Li Peng , Zhao Li Xin , Zhang Yang
Published: June 2017

The stress and strain of surrounding rock and the development of plastic zone in the process of excavation of large underground cavern group have been the main concern of the design unit. The numerical simulation software is used to analyze the stability of caverns of an underground pumping station. The stress and displacement of the surrounding rock and the development of the plastic zone in the process of excavation are analyzed in detail. The results show that the tensile stress is easily generated in the side wall, and the maximum value can reach 4 M Pa. Correspondingly, the maximum displacement of the side wall part can reach 4 cm. The plastic zone is mainly concentrated in the surrounding rock near the side wall, the thickness can reach about 9 m. In general, the excavation of underground caverns is basically stable.
3D Position Based Human Movement Computation Using Multiple Images
Authors: Park Ji Hun
Published: June 2017

This paper presents a computation method of human movement using 3D point, regarding a human as a rigid body. The movement computation method uses ray vectors cast from cameras. Ray vectors cast from cameras to feature points carry values of camera external parameter. Given four or more nonplanar known points of one input image, we calculate camera's external parameters of the input image using computed values from partially overlapping, adjacent input image frames using Newton's root finding algorithm. This is achieved by computing fixed points in the environment, camera distortion values and external parameters from stationary scenes, and camera external parameters of the input frame. Using computed camera external parameters, a tracked object's rigid object movement is computed using projected intersection points between ray vectors. Our method is demonstrated using various input images. The result is used in a human tracking.
Mechanical Zinc Coating Procedure under Conditions of Vibration Mechanical-Chemical Impact
Authors: Ivanov V.V. , Dontsov N.S. , Kirichek A.V.
Published: June 2017

The purpose of the investigation carried out is the study of regularities in structural-phase changes and mechanical-chemical processes occurred in a surface layer under the influence of outer and inner technological factors. As experimental equipment there was used a vibration horizontal plant of UVG4x10 type. Working environment consisted of porcelain balls of 4mm diameter, PU-20 zinc powder and an aqueous solution of zinc chloride, and as abrasives – steel plates of 10x10 mm. As a result of the investigations there was determined a mechanism of coating formation, technological regulations for its application were established, surface morphology was investigated. The coating obtained exceeds the electrolytic one by a factor of 1.5 on corrosion resistance due to the absence of a hydrogenated layer.
Modern Methods of Rail Welding
Authors: Kozyrev N.A. , Usoltsev A.A. , Kryukov R.E. , Shevchenko R.A. , Gizatulin R.A. , Valueva A.V.
Published: June 2017

Existing methods of rail welding, which are enable to get continuous welded rail track, are observed in this article. Analysis of existing welding methods allows considering an issue of continuous rail track in detail. Metallurgical and welding technologies of rail welding and also process technologies reducing aftereffects of temperature exposure are important factors determining the quality and reliability of the continuous rail track. Analysis of the existing methods of rail welding enable to find the research line for solving this problem.
Patterns of Wave Deformational Multicontact Half-Subspace Loading
Authors: Kirichek A.V. , Barinov S.V. , Yashin A.V.
Published: June 2017

It was experimentally found that during the passage of the impact momentum through multi-indentor impact system the distortion of energy transfer in the deformation zone is influenced by such factors as the number of indentures (waveguides), their shape and distance position relative to the impact axis. Thus, the increase in the number of indentures in the impact system, on the one hand, leads to a decrease in the proportion of energy of the impact pulse per an isolated indenter, and on the other hand allows to increase the total value of energy transfer in the deformation zone compared to one-indentor scheme. The distance increase between impact axis and indentors placement regardless of their number and form, leads to a decrease in the proportion of energy transmitted to the deformation zone.
Technological Exercise of Cell Structure Forming
Authors: Larin S.N. , Platonov V.I. , Nuzgdin G.A.
Published: June 2017

Single-layer and multi-layer cell structures are used for manufacturing of shells of liquid fuel tankers, as well as of "dry" shells of products, wings, fairings, etc. However, conventional methods of production by means of milling do not allow achieving the required specific strength. In this connection, diffusion bonding by means of gas pressure and gas forming at specified temperature and speed conditions are extremely important. Studies conducted by authors help model the processes and calculate the necessary processing parameters: pressure, critical strain rate, deformation rate (deformation time). This paper describes the manufacturing technology for these products, in which the solutions are based on theoretical and experimental studies, which provide: an increase in specific strength; reduction in weight of the product; reduction of labor intensity and increase in material utilization factor.
Use of Ceramic Injection Molding Technology to Increase Biogas Burners Efficiency
Authors: Sokolov V.Y. , Naumov S.A. , Sadchikov A.V. , Mitrofanov S.V.
Published: June 2017

The article gives considerations to issues relating to organization of biogas combustion process. A new design of biogas burner is suggested. It differs from existing analogues by more complete combustion of air and gas mixture and high efficiency. Feasibility of greater burners' effectiveness due to the use of ceramic injection molding technology is demonstrated here.
Control of the Condition and Preparation of Surfaces with Heterogeneous Characteristics for Electrolytic Chrome-Plating
Authors: Kovenskiy I.M. , Malysh V.S. , Kulemina A.A.
Published: June 2017

The article deals with peculiarities of restoration of steel parts by electrolytic Chromium-Plating depending on structural heterogeneity of worn surfaces. The possibility of assessing the quality of surface preparation for the process of Chromium-Plating by the results of measuring the thermal EMF in local areas of the restored surface is shown. A technological route of quality control in restoration of heavily loaded parts of gas turbine engines implemented in working environment is proposed.
Use of Natural Zeolite in Systems for Separation and Purification of Gas Mixtures Containing Methane
Authors: Sadchikov A.V. , Mitrofanov S.V. , Sokolov V.Y. , Naumov S.A.
Published: June 2017

The article gives considerations to issues dealing with systems for separation and purification of gas mixtures containing methane. A method of pressure swing adsorption is suggested for biogas purification. The present results show the use of natural zeolite (Izhberdinskoye field, Orenburg region) to improve biogas quality by adsorption of water vapor, hydrogen sulphide and carbon dioxide.
The Composite Material from the Recycled Raw Materials in the Purification of Oily Wastewater Technology
Authors: Moskvicheva E.V. , Sidyakin P.A. , Moskvicheva A.V. , Doskina E.P. , Shchitov D.V. , Lykova E.Yu. , Fesenko L.N.
Published: June 2017

Getting a composite of oil and plastic waste and their use as sorbents for cleaning oil drains is considered. The regularity of modifying oil waste polymer waste with polymer waste, physico-chemical and technological parameters are identified. The scheme of modification is worked out. Rational ways to reduce environmental pollution and improve water treatment facilities are found.
Influence of the Cobalt Additive on the Flux Cored Wire of System Fe-C-Si-Mn-Cr-Ni-Mo-V
Authors: Osetkovskiy I.V. , Kozyrev N.A. , Gusev A.I. , Kozyreva O.A. , Gizatulin R.A. , Valueva A.V.
Published: June 2017

Studied the effect of the introduction of cobalt into the charge powder fused wire system Fe-C-Si-Mn-Cr-Ni-Mo-V, used in cladding assemblies and equipment parts and mechanisms operating under abrasive and abrasive shock loads., the samples cored wires were manufactured in the laboratory conditions using appropriate powder materials and as a carbonfluoride contained material were used the dust from gas purification of aluminum production.
Experimental Research of Crack Resistance of Composite Materials
Authors: Koryagin Sergey I. , Velikanov Nikolay L. , Sharkov Oleg V.
Published: June 2017

An adhesive composition is used as a binder in many composite materials. Crack resistance of an adhesive composition is the most important characteristic determining the bearing capacity of composite materials. To date, a significant number of methodological recommendations and standards have been developed for estimation of adhesive compositions bearing capacity in different types of loading forces exertions which, with certain assumptions, can be used to assess their crack resistance. Known testing procedure for crack resistance of adhesive composition was selected as a basic one. It includes a bending load in the form of loadings acting perpendicular to cantilever beams which is applied to the double-cantilever sample. Therewith a sample response and a corresponding change in length of the resulting crack in the adhesive compound layer are being recorded. This is followed by a determination of the specific energy of crack propagation which provides information about the value of crack resistance.
Opportunity recognition: delineating the process and motivators for serial entrepreneurs
Authors: Urban Boris
Published: June 2017

Opportunity recognition is a fundamental research issue in entrepreneurship which this paper empirically investigates for serial entrepreneurs. Initially key definitions and boundary conditions of opportunity recognition are explored to elucidate the relevant motivators driving serial entrepreneurs. After operationalising the various concepts, data is collected by surveying serial entrepreneurs (n= 77) based on pre-determined selection criteria. Since the study’s objective is to build solid theory on these new phenomena, descriptive analysis on the empirical results is provided. To test the hypotheses inferential statistics employing parametric and non-parametric tests are used. The findings reveal that the opportunity recognition behaviours are manifest among serial entrepreneurs, with few significant differences on how many new, major businesses have been pursued, or whether they can be said to be successes.
A research on comprehension differences between print and screen reading
Authors: Sun Szu-Yuan , Shieh Chich-Jen , Huang Kai-Ping
Published: June 2017

Since the 1980s, extensive research has been conducted comparing reading comprehension from printed text and computer screens. The conclusions, however, are not very consistent. As reading from computer screens requires a certain degree of individual technical skill, such variables should be objectively taken into consideration when conducting an experiment regarding the comparison between print and screen reading. This study analyses the difference in the level of understanding of the two presentational formats (text on printed pages and hypertext on computer screens) for people between 45-54 years of age (i.e. “middleaged” adults). In our experimental findings there were no significant differences between the levels of comprehension for print and screen presentations. With regard to individual differences in gender, age group and educational level, the findings are as follows: gender and education effects on print reading comprehension performance were significant, while those on screen reading comprehension performance were not. For middle-aged computer learners, the main effect of age group on both print and screen reading comprehension performance was insignificant. In contrast, linear texts of traditional paper-based material are better for middle-aged readers’ literal text comprehension, while hypertext is beneficial to their inferential text comprehension. It is also suggested that hypermedia could be used as a cognitive tool for improving middle-aged adults’ inferential abilities on reading comprehension, provided that they were trained adequately to use available computers.
The relationships among business strategies, organisational performance and organisational culture in the tourism industry
Authors: Lin Mong-Mei , Wu Yueh-Hsin
Published: June 2017

As societies develop, the tourism industry has become one of the most powerful and largest industries in the global economy. The industrial status and economic function of the tourism industry have increased in the economic development of cities. The tourism industry has helped to drive the city economy, create employment, and facilitate culture and the environment The tourism industry, as one of the supporting industries for economic development in China, presents diverse services that are not only competitive within the industry, but could also increase national consumption. In addition to the professional service items and quality, the adjustment of business strategies aimed at the changeable environment are considered as key success factors in the tourism industry. This study analyzes the effect of business strategies on organisational performance in the tourism industry. Owners, managers, and employees from the top ten travel agencies in Taiwan were selected as the research subjects and a total of 600 questionnaires were distributed. Within the retrieved 438 surveys, 43 were incomplete and removed to yield a total of 395 valid questionnaires. Within the empirical analyses business strategies appear to have significant positive correlations with job satisfaction, organisational objective and job performance in organisational performance. Moreover, organisational culture presents a partially moderating effect for the relations between business strategies and organisational performance.
High-tech industries' overseas investment performance evaluation - Application of data envelopment analysis
Authors: Hu Ridong , Shieh Chich-Jen
Published: June 2017

With the rapid change of the social environment, Mainland China has become a new economic market due to the great domestic demand caused by its enormous population and the increasing economic growth rate. Taiwanese businesses have gradually turned to develop in China under the pressure of increasing domestic wages and land costs for expanding factories as well as the enhancement of environmental protection. Mainland China presents the advantages of ample land, low labor costs, monoethnicity, and easy language communication making it an attractive major investment location for Taiwanese high-tech industries. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is applied to measure overseas investment efficiency evaluation of Taiwanese high-tech businesses in China, where the Delphi Method is used for selecting the inputs of the number of employees, R&D expenses, and gross sales in total assets. Sensitivity Analysis is further utilized for acquiring the most efficient unit and individual units with operating efficiency. The research results show that 1.Three high-tech businesses that present constant returns to scale perform optimally with overseas investment efficiency 2.Two high-tech companies with decreasing returns to scale appear that they could improve the overseas investment efficiency by decreasing the scale to enhancing the marginal returns, and 3.Sixteen high-tech enterprises reveal increasing returns to scale, showing that they could expand the scale to enhance the marginal returns and further promote efficiency.
A study of Chinese guanxi type in family business from the perspective of power-based and leadership behaviours
Authors: Tsai Hsien-Tang , Wu Tung-Ju , Yeh Shang-Pao
Published: June 2017

In Chinese society, a guanxi network is based on kinship or family ties of affection. This special pattern has a historical background and is one of the important factors that have enabled many Taiwanese enterprises to continue operating through the decades. The personal links between people create a kind of social network known as guanxi, which is a unique characteristic of Chinese society. The study aims to investigate the guanxi type of managers in Taiwanese family businesses, and examines how the guanxi type may moderate the correlation between the managers’ power and the influence tactics used to handle subordinates. We surveyed 178 managers who are working in Taiwanese family business. The results of the hierarchical regression modeling showed that as managers have more position power, especially those exercising the family guanxi, they are more likely to be assertive in their treatment of their subordinates. Managers possessing the friend guanxi often play a bridging role to complement the function of those managers with the family guanxi, who may use the assertive approach too strongly. Managers of this type can provide a “lubricant effect” and keep the family business running smoothly. We recommend that family business owners should pay more attention to relationship harmony and internal communication channels in their organisations.
Foreword to the Special Issue of the 5th Annual International Conference of Organisational Innovation
Authors: Maritz Alex
Published: June 2017

On behalf of the International Association of Organisational Innovation (IAOI) we are delighted to feature a range of best papers from our 2011 annual ICOI Conference (now in its 8th year).