bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climatic influence on anthrax suitability in warming northern latitudes
Authors: Walsh Michael G. , de Smalen Allard W. , Mor Siobhan M.
Published: June 2018

Climate change is impacting ecosystem structure and function, with potentially drastic downstream effects on human and animal health. Emerging zoonotic diseases are expected to be particularly vulnerable to climate and biodiversity disturbance. Anthrax is an archetypal zoonosis that manifests its most significant burden on vulnerable pastoralist communities. The current study sought to investigate the influence of temperature increases on geographic anthrax suitability in the temperate, boreal, and arctic North, where observed climate impact has been rapid. This study also explored the influence of climate relative to more traditional factors, such as livestock distribution, ungulate biodiversity, and soil-water balance, in demarcating risk. Machine learning was used to model anthrax suitability in northern latitudes. The model identified climate, livestock density and wild ungulate species richness as the most influential features in predicting suitability. These findings highlight the significance of warming temperatures for anthrax ecology in northern latitudes, and suggest potential mitigating effects of interventions targeting megafauna biodiversity conservation in grassland ecosystems, and animal health promotion among small to midsize livestock herds.
The association between TNFR gene polymorphisms and the risk of Hepatitis B Virus-Related Liver Diseases in Chinese population
Authors: Ma Liping , Chen Siyuan , Mao Xiaohuan , Lu Yu , Zhang Xiaolian , Lao Xianjun , Qin Xue , Li Shan
Published: June 2018

Tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily 2 (TNFR2) plays an important role in controlling the progression of antiviral and antitumorr. Evidence suggests that TNFR2 is involved in the pathogenesis of HBV-induced liver injury. We therefore examined whether TNFR2 polymorphisms are associated with the risk of HBV-related liver disease in Chinese population. In this case-control study, 115 chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients, 86 HBV-related liver cirrhosis patients (LC), 272 HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma patients (HCC) and 269 healthy controls were recruited. TNFR2 rs1061622 and rs1061624 polymorphisms were examined using a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. Binary logistic regression analyses revealed that the A allele of rs1061624 was positively associated with the risk of CHB (AA vs. GG, P = 0.026; AA vs. GA+GG, P = 0.021), LC (AA vs. GG, P = 0.027; AA+GA vs. GG, P = 0.036), and HCC (GA vs. GG, P = 0.046; GA+AA vs. GG, P = 0.031). Moreover, subgroup analysis indicated that male subjects have increased risk in developing CHB and LC. Nevertheless, no association was found between rs1061622 polymorphism and HBV-related liver diseases in the overall or subgroup analyses. Our retrospective study suggests that the TNFR2 rs1061624 polymorphism is associated with HBV-related CHB, LC, and HCC in Chinese population, particularly in males.
Global patterns of human and livestock respiration
Authors: Cai Qixiang , Yan Xiaodong , Li Yafei , Wang Leibin
Published: June 2018

Carbon emissions from human and animals has been neglected by previous studies in estimating the carbon cycle of ecosystem. This study first estimates the spatial-temporal patterns of carbon emissions density from human and livestock respiration among countries around the world from 1960–2014. Then we simulate the soil heterotrophic respiration (Rh) to analyze the contribution of human and livestock respiration to total heterotrophic respiration of global ecosystem. Our results show that the respiration of human and livestock respectively contribute more than 1% of the total carbon output from heterotrophic respiration in most countries and affect more than 5% in almost half of the countries. Moreover, the effect of livestock respiration is slightly greater than that of human beings. Therefore, the estimation of heterotrophic respiration should not only consider Rh in these countries, human and livestock respiration are equally important in the research on regional carbon budget.
In-situ, time resolved monitoring of uranium in BFS:OPC grout. Part 2: Corrosion in water
Authors: Stitt C. A. , Paraskevoulakos C. , Banos A. , Harker N. J. , Hallam K. R. , Pullin H. , Davenport A. , Street S. , Scott T. B.
Published: June 2018

To reflect potential conditions in a geological disposal facility, uranium was encapsulated in grout and submersed in de-ionised water for time periods between 2–47 weeks. Synchrotron X-ray Powder Diffraction and X-ray Tomography were used to identify the dominant corrosion products and measure their dimensions. Uranium dioxide was observed as the dominant corrosion product and time dependent thickness measurements were used to calculate oxidation rates. The effectiveness of physical and chemical grout properties to uranium corrosion and mobilisation is discussed and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry was used to measure 238U(aq) content in the residual water of several samples.
Social learning from conspecifics and humans in dog puppies
Authors: Fugazza Claudia , Moesta Alexandra , Pogány Ákos , Miklósi Ádám
Published: June 2018

Social learning is especially advantageous for young individuals because it reduces the risks of trial-and-error learning, while providing an efficient way of acquiring information. Whereas adult dogs are known to excel in social learning skills, the ontogeny of this process has been mainly overlooked. The focus of our study was to investigate whether the capacity of social learning is already developed in dogs at an early age. We tested 8-week-old dog puppies on their ability to learn socially to open a puzzle box baited with food and on their capacity to retain the acquired information in their memory. Puppies were tested with conspecific and human demonstrators. We further investigated on whether demonstrations performed by their mother or by an unfamiliar conspecific model affected puppies’ learning trend differently. We found that social learning skills are present in 8 weeks old puppies and they remembered this experience for 1 hour. Puppies learned to solve the task from both conspecific and human demonstrators, thereby endorsing dogs’ flexibility in learning from different social partners. Unexpectedly, puppies were more likely to learn from unfamiliar conspecifics than from their mother, probably as a result of greater attention payed to the demonstration performed by the unfamiliar model.
N-doped graphene-based copper nanocomposite with ultralow electrical resistivity and high thermal conductivity
Authors: Zheng Liang , Zheng Hui , Huo Dexuan , Wu Feimei , Shao Lihuan , Zheng Peng , Jiang Yuan , Zheng Xiaolong , Qiu Xinping , Liu Yan , Zhang Yang
Published: June 2018

Nanocomposite with a room-temperature ultra-low resistivity far below that of conventional metals like copper is considered as the next generation conductor. However, many technical and scientific problems are encountered in the fabrication of such nanocomposite materials at present. Here, we report the rapid and efficient fabrication and characterization of a novel nitrogen-doped graphene-copper nanocomposite. Silk fibroin was used as a precursor and placed on a copper substrate, followed by the microwave plasma treatment. This resulted nitrogen-doped graphene-copper composite possesses an electrical resistivity of 0.16 µΩ·cm at room temperature, far lower than that of copper. In addition, the composite has superior thermal conductivity (538 W/m·K at 25 °C) which is 138% of copper. The combination of excellent thermal conductivity and ultra-low electrical resistivity opens up potentials in next-generation conductors.
Protein profiling of water and alkali soluble cottonseed protein isolates
Authors: He Zhongqi , Zhang Dunhua , Cao Heping
Published: June 2018

Currently, there is only limited knowledge on the protein types and structures of the cottonseed proteins. In this work, water-soluble cottonseed proteins (CSPw) and alkali-soluble cottonseed proteins (CSPa) were sequentially extracted from defatted cottonseed meal. Proteins of the two fractions were separated by 4–20% gradient polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE); There were 7 and 12 polypeptide bands on SDS-PAGE of CSPa and CSPw, respectively. These individual bands were then excised from the gel and subjected to mass spectrometric analysis. There were total 70 polypeptides identified from the proteins of the two cottonseed preparations, with molecular weights ranging from 10 to 381 kDa. While many proteins or their fragments were found in multiple bands, 18 proteins appeared only in one SDS-PAGE band (6 in CSPa, 12 in CSPw). Putative functions of these proteins include storage, transcription/translation, synthesis, energy metabolism, antimicrobial activity, and embryogenesis. Among the most abundant are legumin A (58 kDa), legumin B (59 kDa), vicilin C72 (70 kDa), vicilin GC72-A (71 kDa), and vicilin-like antimicrobial peptides (62 kDa). This work enriched the fundamental knowledge on cottonseed protein composition, and would help in better understanding of the functional and physicochemical properties of cottonseed protein and for enhancing its biotechnological utilization.
Boat noise prevents soundscape-based habitat selection by coral planulae
Authors: Lecchini David , Bertucci Frédéric , Gache Camille , Khalife Adam , Besson Marc , Roux Natacha , Berthe Cecile , Singh Shubha , Parmentier Eric , Nugues Maggy M. , Brooker Rohan M. , Dixson Danielle L. , Hédouin Laetitia
Published: June 2018

Understanding the relationship between coral reef condition and recruitment potential is vital for the development of effective management strategies that maintain coral cover and biodiversity. Coral larvae (planulae) have been shown to use certain sensory cues to orient towards settlement habitats (e.g. the odour of live crustose coralline algae - CCA). However, the influence of auditory cues on coral recruitment, and any effect of anthropogenic noise on this process, remain largely unknown. Here, we determined the effect of protected reef (MPA), exploited reef (non-MPA) soundscapes, and a source of anthropogenic noise (boat) on the habitat preference for live CCA over dead CCA in the planula of two common Indo-Pacific coral species (Pocillopora damicornis and Acropora cytherea). Soundscapes from protected reefs significantly increased the phonotaxis of planulae of both species towards live CCA, especially when compared to boat noise. Boat noise playback prevented this preferential selection of live CCA as a settlement substrate. These results suggest that sources of anthropogenic noise such as motor boat can disrupt the settlement behaviours of coral planulae. Acoustic cues should be accounted for when developing management strategies aimed at maximizing larval recruitment to coral reefs.
Cardio-visual full body illusion alters bodily self-consciousness and tactile processing in somatosensory cortex
Authors: Heydrich Lukas , Aspell Jane Elizabeth , Marillier Guillaume , Lavanchy Tom , Herbelin Bruno , Blanke Olaf
Published: June 2018

Prominent theories highlight the importance of bodily perception for self-consciousness, but it is currently not known whether this is based on interoceptive or exteroceptive signals or on integrated signals from these anatomically distinct systems, nor where in the brain such integration might occur. To investigate this, we measured brain activity during the recently described ‘cardio-visual full body illusion’ which combines interoceptive and exteroceptive signals, by providing participants with visual exteroceptive information about their heartbeat in the form of a periodically illuminated silhouette outlining a video image of the participant’s body and flashing in synchrony with their heartbeat. We found, as also reported previously, that synchronous cardio-visual signals increased self-identification with the virtual body. Here we further investigated whether experimental changes in self-consciousness during this illusion are accompanied by activity changes in somatosensory cortex by recording somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs). We show that a late somatosensory evoked potential component (P45) reflects the illusory self-identification with a virtual body. These data demonstrate that interoceptive and exteroceptive signals can be combined to modulate activity in parietal somatosensory cortex.
Pharmacological and genomic profiling of neurofibromatosis type 1 plexiform neurofibroma-derived schwann cells
Authors: Ferrer Marc , Gosline Sara J. C. , Stathis Marigo , Zhang Xiaohu , Guo Xindi , Guha Rajarshi , Ryman Dannielle A. , Wallace Margaret R. , Kasch-Semenza Laura , Hao Haiping , Ingersoll Roxann , Mohr David , Thomas Craig , Verma Sharad , Guinney Justin , Blakeley Jaishri O.
Published: June 2018

Neurofibromatosis type I (NF1) is an autosomal dominant genetic condition characterized by peripheral nervous system tumors (PNSTs), including plexiform neurofibromas (pNFs) that cause nerve dysfunction, deformity, pain damage to adjacent structures, and can undergo malignant transformation. There are no effective therapies to prevent or treat pNFs. Drug discovery efforts are slowed by the ‘benign’ nature of the Schwann cells that are the progenitor cells of pNF. In this work we characterize a set of pNF-derived cell lines at the genomic level (via SNP Arrays, RNAseq, and Whole Exome- Sequencing), and carry out dose response-based quantitative high-throughput screening (qHTS) with a collection of 1,912 oncology-focused compounds in a 1536-well microplate cell proliferation assays. Through the characterization and screening of NF1−/−, NF1+/+ and NF1+/− Schwann cell lines, this resource introduces novel therapeutic avenues for the development for NF1 associated pNF as well as all solid tumors with NF1 somatic mutations. The integrated data sets are openly available for further analysis at http://www.synapse.org/pnfCellCulture.
Boron-doped diamond electrode: a modification-free platform for sensitive square-wave voltammetric determination of indapamide hydrochloride
Authors: Rossi Salamanca-Neto Carlos Alberto , Yoshida Fabiana Ayumi , Sartori Elen Romão , Tobias Moraes Jaqueline
Published: June 2018

For the first time, a boron-doped diamond electrode was used to indapamide hydrochloride sensing.
The effects of MTG catalysis on methanol mobility in ZSM-5
Authors: Matam S. K. , O'Malley A. J. , Catlow C. R. A. , Suwardiyanto Suwardiyanto , Collier P. , Hawkins A. P. , Zachariou A. , Lennon D. , Silverwood I. , Parker S. F. , Howe R. F.
Published: June 2018

QENS shows that methanol is immobile in a fresh ZSM-5 catalyst and one used for methanol conversion at 623 K, but undergoes isotropic rotation within the mesopores generated in a catalyst used for methanol conversion at 673 K.
Polymers mediate a one-pot route for functionalized quantum dot barcodes with a large encoding capacity
Authors: Zhang Ding Sheng-zi , Jiang Yang , Wei Dan , Wei Xunbin , Xu Hong , Gu Hongchen
Published: June 2018

With the increasing demands for high-throughput multiplexed bioassay, a novel one-pot strategy is developed, generating functionalized QD-encoded microspheres with a widely-tunable fluorescence intensity and optical stability.
Free electron-driven photophysics in n-type doped silicon nanocrystals
Authors: Limpens R. , Neale N. R.
Published: June 2018

By making use of multiple spectroscopic techniques we provide a comprehensive understanding of the photophysics of n-type doped Si nanocrystals.
Enhancing electronic and optoelectronic performances of tungsten diselenide by plasma treatment
Authors: Xie Yuan , Wu Enxiu , Hu Ruixue , Qian Shuangbei , Feng Zhihong , Chen Xuejiao , Zhang Hao , Xu Linyan , Hu Xiaodong , Liu Jing , Zhang Daihua
Published: June 2018

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) have recently become spotlighted as nanomaterials for future electronic and optoelectronic devices.
Apatinib inhibits macrophage-mediated epithelial–mesenchymal transition in lung cancer
Authors: Liu Shuliang , Su Lingfei , Mu Xuri , Shi Yubo , Zhang Aifeng , Ge Xingping
Published: June 2018

Chemotherapy is one of the main treatment approaches for lung cancer.
One-step topological preparation of carbon doped and coated TiO2 hollow nanocubes for synergistically enhanced visible photodegradation activity
Authors: Zhang Chengjiang , Cao Amin , Chen Lianqing , Lv Kangle , Wu Tsunghsueh , Deng Kejian
Published: June 2018

Herein, visible-light-responsive carbon doped and coated TiO2-HNBs have been prepared via a template-engaged topotactic transformation process.
A channel-structured Eu-based metal–organic framework with a zwitterionic ligand for selectively sensing Fe3+ ions
Authors: Huang Yong-Qing , Chen Huai-Ying , Wang Yang , Ren Yong-He , Li Zong-Ge , Li Lu-Chao , Wang Yan
Published: June 2018

A channel-structured Eu-based metal–organic framework with a zwitterionic ligand may serve as a sensor for selectively detecting Fe3+ ions.
Facilely controlled synthesis of a core-shell structured MOF composite and its derived N-doped hierarchical porous carbon for CO2 adsorption
Authors: Zhang Zhongzheng , Sun Nannan , Wei Wei , Sun Yuhan
Published: June 2018

New strategy for controlled synthesis of core–shell structured ZIF-8 composite and hierarchical N-doped carbon via an effective in situ self-assembly process.
Study on montmorillonite–chlorhexidine acetate–terbinafine hydrochloride intercalation composites as drug release systems
Authors: Sun Baohong , Zhang Ming , Zhou Ninglin , Chu Xiaohong , Yuan Ping , Chi Cheng , Wu Fan , Shen Jian
Published: June 2018

This paper focuses on the intercalation of chlorhexidine acetate (CA) and terbinafine hydrochloride (TBH) into montmorillonite as sustained release drug carriers.
The self-assembly of monosubstituted BODIPY and HFBI-RGD
Authors: Sun Fengnan , Yang Guang , Zhang Qian , Xue Zhongbo , Gu Chengzhi , Chen Zhuozhi , Yan Boying , Feng Yaqing , Wang Zefang , Meng Shuxian
Published: June 2018

A novel fluorescent probe was constructed by the self-assembly of monosubstituted BODIPY and a novel targeted hydrophobin named hereafter as HFBI-RGD.
Non-monotonic variations of the nucleation free energy in a glass-forming ultra-soft particles fluid
Authors: Desgranges Caroline , Delhommelle Jerome
Published: June 2018

Non-classical nucleation behavior arising from the interplay between the formation of a crystal nucleus and the glass transition.
Contorted polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon: promising Li insertion organic anode
Authors: Park Jaehyun , Lee Cheol Woo , Joo Se Hun , Park Ju Hyun , Hwang Chihyun , Song Hyun-Kon , Park Young Seok , Kwak Sang Kyu , Ahn Seokhoon , Kang Seok Ju
Published: June 2018

Contorted hexabenzocoronene molecule as a promising Li insertion organic anode.
Precise nanopore tuning for a high-throughput desalination membrane via co-deposition of dopamine and multifunctional POSS
Authors: You Xinda , Wu Hong , Su Yanlei , Yuan Jinqiu , Zhang Runnan , Yu Qianqian , Wu Mengyuan , Jiang Zhongyi , Cao Xingzhong
Published: June 2018

Polydopamine membranes with precisely-tuned nanopores are constructed via a one-pot co-deposition process containing multifunctional POSS nanoparticles for high-throughput desalination.
Vitamin K as a high-performance organic anode material for rechargeable potassium ion batteries
Authors: Xue Qing , Li Dongning , Huang Yongxin , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Ye Yusheng , Fan Ersha , Li Li , Wu Feng , Chen Renjie
Published: June 2018

Vitamin K modified with graphene nanotubes as a high-performance organic anode material for rechargeable potassium ion batteries.
Light-trapping enhanced ZnO–MoS2 core–shell nanopillar arrays for broadband ultraviolet-visible-near infrared photodetection
Authors: Ning Ling , Jiang Tianhao , Shao Zhibin , Ding Ke , Zhang Xiujuan , Jie Jiansheng
Published: June 2018

High-performance ZnO–MoS2 core–shell nanopillar (NP) array-based photodetectors are fabricated by taking advantage of the light trapping effect of ZnO NP array.
Pyrene spiropyran dyad: solvato-, acido- and mechanofluorochromic properties and its application in acid sensing and reversible fluorescent display
Authors: Su Xing , Ji Yanglimin , Pan Wanting , Chen Siqi , Zhang Yu-Mo , Lin Tingting , Liu Lulu , Li Minjie , Liu Yifei , Zhang Sean Xiao-An
Published: June 2018

Linking pyrene and spiropyran results in a new molecule that exhibits multistimuli responsive emission switching properties both in solution and in solid state.
Fabrication of microparabolic reflector for infrared antenna coupled detectors
Authors: Mubarak Mohamed H. , Sidek Othman , Abdel‐Rahman Mohamed R. , Mustaffa Mohamed Tafir , Mustapa Kamal Ahmed Shukri , Mukras Saad M.
Published: June 2018

The fabrication process of a microparabolic reflector using isotropic xenon difluoride etching technique is presented and analysed through this work for developing infrared antenna‐coupled detectors. Although many parametric studies described the behaviour of this process in the literature, the non‐linearity of the process and its dramatic dependency on the pattern definition result in great difficulties when adopting the process for developing a particular structure. The main focus of this work is, therefore, to present a detailed etching analysis as dictated in the proposed design providing the proper etching recipe according to the proposed structure design and its associated masking pattern. Deep insights into the process have been highlighted suggesting the necessity of the process assessment in terms of evaluating the three‐dimensional etched volume rather than the etched depth. This will potentially solve the non‐linearity behaviour and the pattern dependency problem. The optimum etching recipe yields approximately a total volume of 0.354 mm3 through the proper patterning mask. The resultant parabolic cavities have and in their diameter and depth, respectively, as required for the proposed structure. The integration of a microparabolic reflector with such detectors will potentially enhance the specific detectivity of these detectors.
IRC +10216 as a spectroscopic laboratory: improved rotational constants for SiC2, its isotopologues, and Si2C
Authors: Cernicharo J. , Guélin M. , Agúndez M. , Pardo J. R. , Massalkhi S. , Fonfría J. P. , Velilla Prieto L. , Quintana-Lacaci G. , Marcelino N. , Marka C. , Navarro S. , Kramer C.
Published: June 2018

This work presents a detailed analysis of the laboratory and astrophysical spectral data available for 28SiC2, 29SiC2, 30SiC2, Si13CC, and Si2C. New data on the rotational lines of these species between 70 and 350 GHz have been obtained with high spectral resolution (195 kHz) with the IRAM 30 m telescope in the direction of the circumstellar envelope IRC +10216. Frequency measurements can reach an accuracy of 50 kHz for features observed with a good signal to noise ratio. From the observed astrophysical lines and the available laboratory data new rotational and centrifugal distortion constants have been derived for all the isotopologues of SiC2, allowing us to predict their spectrum with an estimated accuracy better than 50 kHz below 500 GHz and around 50–100 kHz for the strong lines above 500 GHz. Improved rotational and centrifugal distortion constants have also been obtained for disilicon carbide, Si2C. This work shows that observations of IRC +10216 taken with the IRAM 30 m telescope, with a spectral resolution of 195 kHz, can be used for any molecular species detected in this source to derive, or improve, its rotational constants. Hence, IRC +10216 in addition to be one the richest sources in molecular species in the sky, can also be used as a spectroscopy laboratory in the millimetre and submillimetre domains.
Slug-bubble regime identification in a square channel using a IR Sensor
Authors: Aafrin Sulthana. S , Marieswaran. T , Braghadesh. N , Mithran. N , Venkatesan. M
Published: June 2018

Design of micro thrusters for nano satellites, require a detailed understanding of multiphase flow phenomena in micro/mini-channels. This work focuses on the experimental and numerical investigation of an Infra-red sensor behavior during two phase flow of a slug-bubble train (air-water two-phase flow). The regime flows inside a square channel of sides 2 mm and 0.5 mm thickness made of borosilicate glass. The interference of the slug-bubble train flow pattern on the IR transceiver characteristics is experimentally studied as current signals corresponding to the number of photons received by the photodiode. A numerical model is developed to analyze the IR transceiver characteristics using COMSOL Multiphysics package. The experimental and numerical results are in good agreement and the developed system with proper calibration can be used to design feedback loops for micro thrusters.
Sloshing response of partially filled rectangular tank under periodic horizontal ground motion.
Authors: Pandit Amiya , Chandra Biswal Kishore
Published: June 2018

The event caused due to the movement of the unrestricted free surface liquid in container due to any external excitation is known as sloshing. The problem of liquid sloshing phenomenon in stationary or in moving container is a great matter of concern for many researchers and engineers. The containers may range from a cup of milk, ponds, and lakes to fuel tanks of launching vehicles and cargo ships carrying variety of liquids such as oil, liquefied natural gas, and chemical fluids. As a result of sloshing there is spillage of liquid from the containers and it causes structural instability and structural damage. Due to these reasons, liquid retaining structures which are special in construction and in function from an engineering point of view must be constructed well to be resistant against oscillation of the liquid due to external excitations. The amount of liquid participating in the sloshing motion depends on the shape of tank, the liquid depth, internal objects, if any, orientation, duration, amplitude, and frequency contents of external excitations. This present study focuses on the forced vibration analysis of partially filled two-dimensional rigid rectangular tank numerically. A Finite element (FE) code in two dimensions is developed to understand the behavior of sloshing. This method is competent enough of evaluating both impulsive and convective response of tank-liquid system in terms of base shear and hydrodynamic pressure distribution along the walls of the containers.
Numerical investigation of hybrid blend design target bullets
Authors: Muruganantham V R , Babin T
Published: June 2018

In the past few decades, researchers are involved in the studies of high-energy penetrator geometry and also the materials used for causing brutal damages on enemy targets. The highly focused area in this field is the shape of the nose and penetration angle of the penetrator. Hybrid blend design target bullets is one among the best aerodynamic design as it is having two different shapes within the nose. The design of these bullets plays an influential role in terms of aerodynamic characteristics and its dynamic performance capability on hitting the targets. Objective of this research is to perform a comparative analysis of 3 different geometrically varied shapes of these bullets by numerical simulation using CFD, based on its performance characteristics such as aerodynamic co-efficients, shock wave existence, Turbulent dissipation rate and normal drag force on the bullet surface.
Recent advancements in shape optimization of aero spiked high speed re-entry vehicle using CFD
Authors: Panjagala Harish , Madhukar E L N Rohit , Kiran I Ravi
Published: June 2018

Due to increasing demand of High Speed Re-entry vehicles for Space activities within the world, a serious issue associated with the method of deceleration down a vehicle is by the intense heat generated because of development of stronger shocks at the nose. The price of thermal protection systems (TPS) to cut back the warmth generated by the return vehicles is extremely high. In this paper, the ultimate outcome is to cut back the aero heating which is achieved by introducing a spike at frontal region of the nose. Additionally, this spike avoids the deterioration and preserves the structural integrity of space vehicle over elevated temperatures. Further, four totally different geometries of tip specifically Blunt, Slender, Snap and Pan for the aerospike has been introduced and their impact on performance is evaluated and compared with the vehicle having TPS. Hence, usage of aerospike in return vehicles is the most successful and economical over different protection system.
Performance investigation of a rotary heat exchanger installed with four ducts using computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Nair Saneesh , Kotebavi Vinod , Das Alokekumar
Published: June 2018

The performance characteristics of a commercially available rotary heat exchanger or were determined using CFD. A rotary air pre-heater of a thermal power plant (fuelled by natural gas), situated in Ramin, Iran, was numerically modelled with full scale dimensions using 3D approach. This model was then validated against the experimentally measured values. After a satisfactory validation of the CFD model, a design modification was applied to the model by modelling the heat exchanger with four ducts, with hot and cold fluid ducts arranged alternatively. This was done to improve the heat the heat transfer from hot gases to cold air. The medium of heat exchange (core) is modelled as porous media, since the core in the actual equipment has many number of fine passages arranged in complex manner, which would make the modelling difficult. The model was subjected to same boundary conditions as the validation model. The temperature of the outlets and effectiveness of both the models were compared and was found out that the 4-ducts model is around 12% more effective than the base model.
Free vibration characteristics of thick doubly curved variable stiffness composite laminated shells using higher-order shear deformation theory
Authors: Venkatachari Anand , Ramajeyathilagam K.
Published: June 2018

In the present work, the natural frequencies of cylindrical and spherical laminated shells with variable stiffness are numerically studied using a shear flexible isogeometric finite element. The kinematics relies on cubic shear deformation theory in which cubic variation is assumed for the surface displacements and a quadratic variation for the traverse displacement along the thickness. A zig-zag function, used for the in-plane displacements, accounts for the abrupt discontinuity at the boundaries of the laminae. The Lagrangian equations of motion is deployed to solve the frequencies of curved panels. A detailed parametric analysis examines the influence of fibre centre/edge angles, shell geometric variables, material anisotropy and edge conditions on frequencies and mode shapes.
An Assessment on Additive Manufacturing Technique to Fabricate Integral PEM Fuel Cell/Electrolyser Component
Authors: Jayakumar Arunkumar
Published: June 2018

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is a reliable technique to build multifunctional components with any complex geometry. The present paper assesses the role of two vital AM techniques, namely Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and Selective Laser Melting (SLM) in the fabrication of integral Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) fuel cell/electrolyser component. Thus, the paper integrates the state-of-the-art technologies, namely additive manufacturing and fuel cell/electrolyser engineering. The US department of energy (US-DoE) target can be comprehensively accomplished for the fuel cell/electrolyser stack components in a cost-effective approach. The fundamental PEM fuel cell/electrolyser components considered in the present study are the bipolar plate and gas diffusion layer (GDL).
Modeling and experimental investigation of process parameters in WEDM for surface roughness using regression model
Authors: Muniappan A. , Senthilkumar R. , Jayakumar V. , Venkata Ravikumar S. , Sai Tarunkumar P.
Published: June 2018

The present study focused on the multiple regression modeling and predicting the surface roughness of the Aluminum hybrid composite during the WEDM process. The hybrid MMC was manufactured by process named as stir casting utilizing particulates of Silicon carbide and graphite each in Al6061 combination. The analyses were outlined with Taguchi L27 design matrix. Mathematical relationships between the surface roughness and WEDM cutting parameters (Pulse on time, Pulse off time, current, gap voltage, wire speed and wire tension) have been investigated. The results show that the multiple regression analysis is a successful method for developing a mathematical model to predict the surface roughness. The optimum value of process parameters for the predicted optimum value of surface roughness (1.285) is pulse on time 106 units (Level 1), pulse off time 60 units (Level 3), peak current 90 units (Level 2), gap set voltage 50 units (Level 3), wire speed3 units (Level 1) and wire tension 12 units (Level 3).The optimum results are adopted in validation study and the results based on WEDM process responses can be effectively improved.
Key Benefits of Adopting Lean Manufacturing Principles in Indian Construction Industry
Authors: Singh Subhav , Dixit Saurav , Sahai Sanjay , Sao Ameet , Kalonia Yogesh , Subramanya Kumar Raja
Published: June 2018

Objectives of a lean production system (LPS) is to maximise value and minimise waste, by applying specific lean tools and techniques such as 5S, LPS, JIT, VSM, PULL, Kaizen, Six Sigma and many others techniques in a new production process. LPS is a philosophy based on the lean principles developed in Toyota by [1] [2] named as lean manufacturing principles and further developed as lean philosophy [3]. The main benefits of utilising 5S are identified from the literature review and a structured questionnaire is prepared. The data is collected using convenient sampling technique from the professionals working in the industry. The collected data is analysed using different tools and techniques. A total of 9 benefits were identified from the literature review and the expert opinion from the industry. The findings of the study contribute to the existing body of knowledge and lay down few suggestions to the industry for implementing 5S in the Indian context. The findings of the study conclude that the lean principles support the Indian manufacturing industry to improve productivity, quality, and reduction in cycle time The study is conducted using primary data collection and the sample size is small (86).
Service Failures and Recovery Strategies in E-tailing: Examining the effects of Product Type and Transaction Frequency
Authors: Miriam Vincy Rini , Hemamala K Dr.
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this paper is recognize product type differences on post recovery satisfaction levels when online purchase failures happen at any stage during an order fulfilment cycle. In particular, we determine how it changes based on the recovery strategy adopted. Findings support the hypothesis that the satisfaction regarding an online purchase reduces when the product is purchased with more shopping effort, i.e. customers will have more satisfaction regarding the order fulfilment process when buying a convenience good than buying a speciality good. This study is unique in that, unlike previous studies on order fulfilment process in e-tailing investigating the relationship between severity of a service failure and post recovery satisfaction, we examine how does the satisfaction levels upon service recovery strategy adopted changes based on the frequency of purchase of the customer on an e-tailing platform. Results suggest that the satisfaction after an online purchase failure and its recovery tends to be high for a customer who has a high frequency of purchasing online than a person with a low frequency of purchasing online.
Musculoskeletal & Risk Assessment during Threshing of Rice-grains
Authors: Mishra Debesh , Satapathy Suchismita
Published: June 2018

In the present study 25 farmers of five villages of South Odisha in India were considered to assess their musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) during threshing of crops. A “Standardized Nordic Questionnaire” was prepared to collect MSD data considering harvesting characteristics, socio-demographic characteristics, economical characteristics about the requirements, and work setting characteristics, by using a five point rating scale i.e. (1 = Very less, 2 =Less, 3 = Nil, 4 = Strong, 5 = Very Strong) for a period of 2 years i.e. from 2015 to 2017. Socio-demographic characteristics and Work setting characteristics of farmers were illustrated to depict the MSD level in different body parts like neck, shoulder, upper back, lower back, elbow, wrist/hand, thigh, knees and ankles, respectively. Factor analysis was performed for threshing characteristics, and economical characteristics, and different parameters under different dominant factors were grouped accordingly. To illustrate the linkage and linear relationship between important parameters, Pearson correlation coefficient matrix was generated for the threshing characteristics of farmers. Also the regression analysis was done to obtain the best-fit linear regression equations for the economic characteristics of farmers. Finally posture analysis was performed for different postures in threshing activities by using the Ovako Working-Posture Analysis System (OWAS) & Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) technique.
Review of Energy Status and Associated Conservational Issues in Botswana
Authors: Agarwal A. , Seretse O.M. , Letsatsi M.T. , Dintwa E.
Published: June 2018

This paper discusses energy status of Botswana and the environmental concerns associated with the production of energy. It was offered in response to the growing concerns in industry about the need for the conservation of energy and for combating the increasing environmental degradation. Accomplishing vitality proficiency and diminishing ecological contamination are progressively essential parts of expert designing. The paper is meant to address top to bottom comprehension of basic issues of energy thrift and environmental consequences of irrational use of energy resources in industry. There is need for up to date technical knowledge and skills required for achieving the better management of energy, designing of energy-efficient systems and processes and the reduction and control of pollution cost-effectively. This information can successfully be coordinated to different segments of the economy for application and help the divisions in enhancing their aggressiveness despite lessening assets, likely considerable increment in unit vitality costs and the urgent requirement to comply with the increasingly-restrictive pollution-control standards.
Design, Modelling and Experimental Investigation of an Economic Domestic STHW System Using T*Sol® Simulation in Botswana
Authors: Seretse O.M. , Agarwal A. , Letsatsi M.T. , Moloko O.M. , Batlhalefi M.S.
Published: June 2018

The study describes a research and development directed at examining research and design a SHWS, and test a flat-plate solar collector capable of collection efficiency in excess of 50 percent at an inlet fluid temperature 22ºC. The model was analyzed using theoretical and mathematical analysis and the T*SOL® simulation programme for solar thermal heating systems using radiation data to site. The average efficiency of mathematically designed system was higher as 70% than the designed value efficiency of 20. The effectiveness of the collector was seen to be higher toward the start of the test and reductions consistently as the test advances with time. The economic analysis of the whole system desired was done with an initial total investment of US$991.10. The economic performance of the system gives a positive net present value of US$4662.13with a payback period of 0.7 years. At a steady radiation, the higher the heat absorbed, the higher the efficiency of the collector. The use of the flat plate solar collector for domestic and commercial heating (for eight person bread and breakfast) purposes in Gaborone is feasible since reasonable temperatures (outlet from the collector, to) were realized.
A PMV-PPD model based study of thermal comfort in Low-Income Group house in Chhattisgarh
Authors: Netam Nisha , Sanyal Shubhashis , Bhowmick Shubhankar
Published: June 2018

People tend to maintain symmetry between comfort and economy while choosing essential commodities needed in their life. Families buy a house which may offer comfort condition, but at minimum in term expenses of energy throughout a life. Thus, it is most important to erect a house to provide comfortable condition and moderate the lifetime expenditure by saving energy consumption. Sensation of thermal comfort varies from people to people, even in an identical environment. To minimize the consumption of energy of building, cost of consumed energy and to provide a comfortable house, thermal comfort analysis in indoor environments have attracted many researchers. Fanger’s Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) - Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied (PPD) model is widely accepted theory for assessment of building indoor thermal conditions. In the present work, thermal comfort of an LIG house in Chhattisgarh region of India has been analyzed based on PMV-PPD method for months representing three different seasons in a year i.e. May, September and December representing summer, post monsoon and winter respectively. Cooling, heating and actual energy load of LIG house has been calculated and reported for the above mentioned months. From analysis it is concluded that inhabitants are comfortable only during the winter.
The Traditional Architecture of the Melanau Tall Longhouse, Mukah, Sarawak
Authors: Bahauddin Azizi , Mustika Syaheeda Awg Musadat Dyg
Published: June 2018

Full of history and legends, the Melanau, one of the ethnic groups of Mukah, Sarawak, Borneo, went through a few periods of cultural assimilation. Three major areas: the Tellian Daya (Ulu), Tellian Puloh and Tellian Laut communities, are the main enclaves of these people with Tellian Puloh being the main hub. Their settlements along the river banks are in lowlands within the tidal zone. During the monsoon period (lian suluh), the tides combined with the flood water from the hills produce unpredsictable fluctuations of high and low water and flooding creating a saturated bog like quality. This paper aims to investigate the Melanau tall longhouse. Its construction was built in such tall heights due to the conditions of the soft soil. Often known to have been built up to 40 feet high, the house also provides protection for the people from floods as well as what used to be their enemies of other warring tribes. The materials used for the construction of the house came from the surrounding areas of sago leaves for the roof, sago tree trunk that had been sliced into planks for walls, nibong tree trunks for the floor and belian (Bornean iron wood) tree trunks for the main structural components of the house. All of these materials are known to be hardy and water resistance. Unfortunately, these traditional houses no longer exist with a few being abandoned and left to rot. Architectural documentation of this house is urgently needed to record the historical part of this culture. The investigation takes on qualitative method looking into the cultural influence onto the architecture. Survey, observation, architectural documentation and interviews with the Melanau cultural experts were undertaken. The finding pointed towards the establishment of the architectural language of the house based on the culture influence and functions of the spaces.
Architecture typology of a British-era colonial schools at the World Heritage Sites of Georgetown and Melaka: Impact on heritage building conservation sector
Authors: Adam Che Yusof Muhammad , Ghafar Ahmad A
Published: June 2018

Colonial schools are among the most valuable and precious treasures from the British administration era. The architectural characteristics of the schools contain a wealth of meaning and philosophy in each of the building details that is not found in modern schools nowadays. However, in this era of rapid development, the status of colonial schools is unclear in terms of their heritage status and significance towards society or even the authorities. Moreover, some colonial schools that are now overshadowed by new buildings that were built inside of the school compound and its surrounding. Besides, the local authorities themselves are lacking on the documentation of colonial schools in terms of their value, and the principles behind the architectural style of the colonial schools that could prove beneficial to many parties later as a reference. This article will outline the method to handle this issue besides suggesting a relationship between the value of the colonial architecture and its history at both heritage sites of Georgetown and Melaka. Besides that, we will also classify different colonial schools according to their architectural style. To ensure the objectives are achieved, qualitative methods will be applied including several approaches such as descriptive method, historical method and content analysis method. Hence, this research can serve as a reference point and documentation, especially for conservation purposes of colonial schools. In addition, the local authorities can also improve their Conservation Management Plan (CMP) by adding a colonial schools sector for conservation work and later guidelines. This research will hopefully also encourage the younger generation on the importance of skills and knowledge in the heritage building conservation sector.
Beaded shoes: the culture of Baba Nyonya
Authors: Azam Azmi Noor , Nizam Amirul , Mohamad Diana , Mohamed Badaruddin
Published: June 2018

Despite the rapid changes in shoes’ arts and designs due to globalization of cultures and customs, beaded shoes of Baba and Nyonya (else addressed as Baba Nyonya) remain in demand locally and globally. Baba Nyonya is one of the unique tribe or community in Malaysia because of their practiced lifestyle that harmonically combine both Malay and Chinese cultures. This paper descriptively discussed the basic procedure of making beaded shoes which include the philosophy and variations that still exist nowadays, in addition to discussing the technique applied when making beaded shoes. The paper also discussed about how the heritage of arts is still being applied by new generations these days where this is in parallel with the old quotes ‘the time might not demolish the heritage arts’. The method employed by the researcher include revisiting literature regarding to the beaded shoes introduced by Baba Nyonya community. To earn a depth and detail information regarding to the beaded shoes, an interview was held with the informant which is one of the motivator or advisor that still practices the heritage arts of Baba Nyonya beaded shoes. The responsibility of continuing the culture is deemed vital and important so the new generation will appreciate and practice the culture practiced by Baba Nyonya.