bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tribological behaviour of double-glow plasma zirconium-yttrium alloying on γ-TiAl
Authors: Huang Cong , Zhang Pingze , Wei Dongbo , Wei Xiangfei , Chen Xiaohu , Ding Feng
Published: January 2017

A Zr–Y alloyed layer was prepared onto the surface of γ-TiAl using double-glow plasma surface alloying technique (DG technique). The results showed that the Zr–Y alloyed layer was comprised of deposited sub-layer and diffused sub-layer, with a total layer thickness of about 20 μm. The nano-indentation test result showed that the nano-hardness of Zr–Y alloyed layer was 2.35 times that of γ-TiAl. The scratch test was carried to evaluate the adhesion strength of Zr–Y alloyed layer. The tribological behaviours were investigated both at ambient temperature and 500°C. Under dry sliding condition, the friction coefficient of the Zr–Y alloyed layer was lower than that of the γ-TiAl. The specific wear rate of γ-TiAl in the presence of Zr–Y alloyed layer was approximately one fifth that in the absence of the alloyed layer. The excellent wear resistance of Zr–Y alloyed layer could be attributed to the high hardness or load-carrying ability.
BCL11B gene heterozygosity causes weight loss accompanied by increased energy consumption, but not defective adipogenesis, in mice
Authors: Inoue Jun , Ihara Yusuke , Tsukamoto Daisuke , Yasumoto Keisuke , Hashidume Tsutomu , Kamimura Kenya , Hirano Shigeki , Shimizu Makoto , Kominami Ryo , Sato Ryuichiro
Published: January 2017

BCL11B is a zinc finger-type transcription factor that regulates the development of the white adipose tissue (WAT), skin, central nervous system, and immune system. BCL11B is required for proper adipocyte differentiation, and BCL11B−/− embryos at E19.5 have very low amounts of the subcutaneous WAT. Here, we demonstrated that BCL11B+/− mice have lower body weight than BCL11B+/+ mice, whereas the expression of adipogenic marker genes in the WAT was comparable between BCL11B+/+ and BCL11B+/− mice. Histological analysis indicated that BCL11B+/− mice fed a high-fat diet have much smaller white adipocytes and lipid droplets in the WAT and liver, respectively. In addition, BCL11B+/− mice had increased energy consumption under both standard and high-fat diets. Thus, this study identifies BCL11B as a regulator of energy metabolism, and it is unlikely that BCL11B functions in the WAT contribute to energy metabolism in BCL11B+/− mice.
Effects of Salt, Polyethylene Glycol, and Water Content on Dough Rheology for Two Red Spring Wheat Varieties
Authors: Yovchev Aleksandar G. , Stone Andrea K. , Hucl Pierre , Scanlon Martin G. , Nickerson Michael T.
Published: January 2017

In this research, the relationship between dough rheology and water behavior was investigated in response to two osmotic regulators, salt (NaCl) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), using two Canadian Western Red Spring (CWRS) wheat varieties (Harvest and Pembina). The effects of NaCl (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 g/100 g of flour) and PEG 400 (2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 g/100 g of flour) on dough rheology (oscillatory and creep) were estimated by using a central composite design. Variation of NaCl showed a significant effect on the phase angle δ, indicating that increasing the NaCl resulted in a more elastic dough. The opposite trend was observed with the addition of PEG. PEG 400 exerted a softening effect owing to plasticization, so that a more compliant liquid‐like dough was produced. The effects of water content (±10% of farinograph absorption) and PEG molar mass on dough rheology and freezable water content were estimated by using a full factorial design. PEGs with different molar mass (400, ≈1,600, and 3,350 g/mol) were added at a concentration of 1 g/100 g of flour. The water content significantly affected all dough rheological attributes, whereas PEG molar mass had no effect. The complex shear modulus (G*) decreased with increasing water content, and dough creep compliance (Jmax) increased. The elastic response of dough, determined as the relative elastic part (Jel) decreased with increasing water content. A high correlation was found between the freezable water content and dough rheological attributes.
Physiologic, Anatomic, and Gene Expression Changes in Citrus sunki, Poncirus trifoliata, and Their Hybrids After ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ Infection
Authors: Boava Leonardo Pires , Cristofani-Yaly Mariângela , Machado Marcos Antonio
Published: January 2017

Huanglongbing (HLB) is a destructive disease of citrus caused by phloem-limited bacteria, namely ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ (Las), ‘Candidatus Liberibacter africanus’, and ‘Candidatus Liberibacter americanus’. Although there are no known HLB-resistant citrus species, studies have reported Poncirus trifoliata as being more tolerant. Assuming that callose deposition in the phloem of infected plants can inhibit translocation of photosynthetic products and cause starch accumulation, we compared callose deposition in petioles and starch accumulation in infected leaves of three genotypes (Citrus sinensis, C. sunki, and P. trifoliata) and 15 hybrids (C. sunki × P. trifoliata). Compared with the mock-inoculated plants, higher bacterial counts and greater accumulation of callose and starch were found in C. sinensis, C. sunki, and 10 of the hybrid plants. Lower titer and fewer metabolic changes due to Las infection were observed in P. trifoliata and in two Las-positive hybrids while three hybrids were Las-negative. Callose accumulation was linked to and correlated with genes involved in phloem functionality and starch accumulation was linked to up-regulation of genes involved in starch biosynthesis and repression of those related to starch breakdown. Lower expression of genes involved in phloem functionality in resistant and tolerant plants can partially explain the absence of distinct disease symptoms associated with starch accumulation that are usually observed in HLB-susceptible genotypes.
Applying a new concept of corrosion protection in the presence of water: hydrojetting application – effectiveness lab test
Authors: Genovez Mario Celso , Araujo Luiz Henrique , Pinto Tiago Dinis , Hrdina Radim
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the results of lab testing of a newly developed organic inhibitor V-active VCIs. The findings demonstrate that it is possible to eliminate or reduce the oxidizing action of water, thereby extending the allowable time before painting after hydrojetting, and that the new corrosion inhibitor technology does not interfere with the final quality of paint adhesion.

Design/methodology/approach

Metallic specimens were treated/washed in standard lab condition. A 2 per cent V-active VCI SPH1712 water solution was prepared by diluting the inhibitor in industrial water. Metal sample plates were examined after blasting and after subsequent drying, and were submitted to the paint adhesion tests, cathodic disbondment, total soluble salts, time for formation of flash rust and cyclic corrosion test type III (20 cycles), to evaluate the duration of temporary protection and oxidation prevention and influence on paint adherence.

Findings

Using the V-active VCI proposed technology, it was possible to minimize or eliminate the oxidizing action of the water when the metal is exposed to saline moisture in a closed environment, extending the acceptable time before painting without interfering with the final quality of painting.

Practical implications

The proposed technology allows an increase in the prepared (wet blasted) steel surface during cleaning and preparation, thereby reducing labor and product costs, and reduces water consumption during the preparation process. Practical applications in the shipbuilding, ship maintenance and oil and gas production industries include the preservation of internal tubes and pipes, protection during hydrostatic test processes and cleaning with water and corrosion prevention in diesel tanks contaminated with water.

Originality/value

The intent of this paper is to present the obtained results for a new formulation of organic chemical inhibitors that use water as the application medium. In addition to this property, this group of organic inhibitors maintains the properties of volatile inhibitors. Thus, these compounds are generically known as V-active VCIs.
Preparation and corrosion behavior of cerium (III)-modified and electro-assisted deposited bis-1,2-[triethoxysilyl] ethane film on the aluminum alloy AA2024-T3
Authors: Peng Dongdong , Wu Junsheng , Chu Pingping , Li Xiaogang
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effect of cerium modification and electrodeposition on the properties of the silane films obtained. Besides, the influence of dissolved oxygen was also researched through inhalation of oxygen or nitrogen. Moreover, the corresponding corrosion behavior of the silane films was also studied.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, surface morphology and corrosion-resistant properties of the films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, immersion test and the salt spray test.

Findings

The paper reveals that all the practical parameters including the concentration of dissolved oxygen had a marked effect on the anti-corrosive performance of the films, which may be attributed to the dense and compact structure of the films obtained. Furthermore, the self-healing ability of the films had also been enhanced through the rise of dissolved oxygen concentration in proper proportion.

Originality/value

This paper reveals the effect of practical parameters on the properties of the silane films obtained and the corrosion behavior of these films.
What stories unfold: empirically grasping value co-creation
Authors: Hansen Anne Vorre
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to give an empirical illustration of value co-creation and to argue for narrative methodology as a fruitful analytical strategy when exploring the processes of value co-creation.

Design/methodology/approach

Through an in-depth case study in the non-profit housing sector in Denmark, the research explored how residents perceive and co-create value in a long-term service relationship. The point of departure is an understanding of value co-creation as a phenomenological construct determined by the beneficiary, and the research is based primarily on the perspectives of service-dominant logic and customer-dominant logic.

Findings

The research elucidated how value is both socially created and deconstructed through stories. Moreover, narrative analysis revealed how residents’ perceptions of services are deeply embedded in context and time. In this way, the study highlighted that the co-creation of value is inherently social and temporal.

Practical implications

Understanding how value is perceived and negotiated by customers might assist practitioners to refine their understanding of value co-creation and lead them to address customers in more nuanced ways.

Originality/value

Prevailing streams in service research on value co-creation argue for more studies and empirically grounded examples of value co-creation processes, especially those based in the customer sphere. This paper contributes to such an enhanced understanding of the process of value co-creation and gives the outline of a new methodology for studies in this specific area of service research.
Innovation in infrastructure projects: an Australian perspective
Authors: Maghsoudi Soroush , Duffield Colin , Wilson David
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Unlike manufacturing and research and developments, major infrastructure projects rarely emphasize or drive their objectives on the basis of innovation. This is in part because of a risk-averse culture, yet conceivably great benefits and opportunities are being lost because of this behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The case for focusing on innovation in infrastructure projects is that the reasons driving innovation are not fully understood, and this impedes the effective implementation of lessons learned for the numerous innovative projects into practice more generally. The purpose of this study was to discover how innovation is produced and captured in major infrastructure projects in Australia and to understand how innovation may be replicated for future projects through refinement of design, project management, finance and procurement.

Findings

Engineering and project managers may find this paper helpful to better understand how innovation might happen in infrastructure projects and what different forms it can take.

Originality/value

The findings of this study demonstrate that people and culture drive consistent successful infrastructure outcomes more than simply the development of new products or processes.
Applying project management for new service development
Authors: Su Chun-Hsien , Chen Ping-Kuo
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an innovative solution on new service development (NSD) implementation by the project management competences and processes of IPMA ICB 3.0 and PMI PMBOK Guide 5th E.

Design/methodology/approach

By breaking NSD work breakdown structure into five control accounts, each account has its own suggested work packages concluded from reviewed literatures.

Findings

This research sequentially presents proper PM competences and processes as solutions for these control accounts and their work packages.

Research limitations/implications

This study was to provide an innovative solution on NSD implementation by the project management competences and processes of IPMA ICB 3.0 and PMI PMBOK Guide 5th E. By breaking NSD work breakdown structure into five control accounts, each account has its own suggested work packages concluded from reviewed literatures. This research sequentially presents proper PM competences and processes as solutions for these control accounts and their work packages. Consequently, we concluded that the PM competences and processes furnish a favorable base where any NSD project is suitable to deploy without compromising its original features.

Practical implications

Consequently, it is concluded that the PM competences and processes furnish a favorable base where any NSD project is suitable to deploy without compromising its original features.
Knowledge management in international cooperation for anti-money laundering
Authors: Yasaka Noriaki
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to construct a theoretical hypothesis to explain the organizational knowledge creation in international cooperation, which aims to contribute to practical problem solving in the process of knowledge creation.

Design/methodology/approach

This research reveals that anti-money laundering based on the concept of knowledge and organizational knowledge creation mechanisms could co-evolve in inter-organizational knowledge.

Findings

By simplifying the knowledge flow of anti-money laundering in international cooperation, the author illustrates the process of knowledge creation, sharing and utilizing.

Originality/value

This paper used the example of international anti-money laundering activities to describe knowledge creation, process of knowledge management, organizational structure and the emergence of international cooperation.
On the plastic moment-shear interaction curves of steel sections under fire
Authors: Dwaikat Mahmud M.S.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Different approaches, originally developed for ambient conditions, exist in current codes and standards for incorporating the effect of moment–shear (M–V) interaction on the plastic-carrying capacity of wide-flanged (WF) steel sections. There is a lack of experimental and theoretical studies that address this issue under fire conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The current paper presents a numerical study investigating the effect of fire exposure on the plastic M–V capacity curves of doubly symmetrical, WF, hot-rolled steel sections. Validated high-fidelity finite element (FE) models constructed via ANSYS are used to study the effect M–V interaction on the plastic capacity of WF sections. Also, a simplified plastic sectional analysis, intended to be used by engineering practitioners, is proposed for generating the plastic M–V interaction curves.

Findings

The study shows that the fire-induced non-uniform heating of the section plates affects the shape of the plastic M–V interaction capacity curves. Comparison of different methods against FE results shows that the method specified in the Eurocode is very conservative at room-temperature, but it turns out to be barely sufficiently conservative under fire conditions.

Originality/value

It is well noted that lack of fire tests on the M–V interaction, including the stability of the plates of steel sections under fire, make it difficult to reach a definite assessment on the effect of M–V interaction on the bearing capacity of steel beams.
Numerical simulation of the heating behaviour of steel profiles with intumescent coating adjacent to trapezoidal steel sheets in fire
Authors: Schaumann Peter , Tabeling Florian , Weisheim Waldemar
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to present numerical investigations regarding the heating behaviour of steel elements protected by an intumescent coating with an adjacent trapezoidal steel sheet.

Design/methodology/approach

For this purpose, a three-dimensional numerical model of a coated I-section profile is developed in Abaqus taking into account the restrained foaming process of the intumescent coating due to the adjacent member explicitly.

Findings

After the validation of the numerical model against own fire tests, the steel temperatures of a coated I-section profile with and without an adjacent trapezoidal steel sheet, resulting from fire exposure according to ISO-834, are compared to demonstrate the influence of the steel sheet in detail.

Originality/value

The main objective is to evaluate the influence of an unprotected trapezoidal steel sheet on the temperatures of coated I-section profiles.
An overview on tube inserts configurations and performances in tubular exchangers
Authors: Abu-Khader Mazen M.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to update a previous review work (Abu-khader, 2006, Heat & Mass Transfer, Vol. 43 No. 2, pp. 123-134) and highlight the new research methods on the use of twisted tapes and the application of different configurations of these tape inserts. Also, based on a vast collection of experimental data in open literature, generalized Nusselt number (Nu) and friction factor (f) correlations as the function of twist ratio were developed with maximum error around ± 15 per cent. The present paper examines several case studies which apply complex configurations of twisted inserts.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the developed correlations, an equivalent Nusselt number and friction factor of typical type twist insert were generated which achieved the same performance of each complex configuration.

Findings

The open literature contains large number of wired and complex configurations of twisted tape inserts. Their applicability to real industrial use is questionable.

Originality/value

This paper presents an up-to-date review on the use of twisted tape in research, highlights the different tape configurations and proposes general correlations for traditional twisted tape inserts.
The percolation mechanism of surfactant-free microemulsions witnessed by the conductivity measurement
Authors: Li Zhen , Liu Xianwei , Lian Yiwei , Xie Juan , Gao Xiaorui , Chang Tao
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to report the conductivity measurement of ten different surfactant-free microemulsions (SFMEs)

Design/methodology/approach

The variations of electrical conductivity as a function of water volume fraction are examined at one constant alcohol (or DMF, ethyl lactate, γ-valerolactone)/water, alcohol (or DMF, ethyl lactate, γ-valerolactone)/oil volume ratios for each sample.

Findings

Most of the results are consistent with percolation character. The conductive mechanism of these SFMEs is discussed by the percolation model, and it is found that it might be described with the static percolation model below the percolation threshold.

Originality/value

Our report gives a systematic research on the percolation mechanism of as many species of SFMEs as possible by the theoretical models
The improvement of XD-MSM friction tester based on Labview
Authors: Wang Guimei , Li Xiaomei
Published: January 2017

Purpose

With the widespread use and development of automobile, much attention has been paid to its security issues. So to ensure the driving safety, the automobile must be equipped with good braking performance. In the process of braking, the friction from friction pair causes continuous wear and tear of the surface of brake lining and increases the gap between break pairs, until the lining is not being used (Belhocinea et al., 2014); thus, it is very important to detect the lining wear rate.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper designed the automobile brake friction test wear rate detection system based on Labview.

Findings

Through the detect data, we find that the automobile brake lining wear rate detection system has higher detect accuracy, in the process of detection, the brake lining without the defects such as cracks and bulges, which shall effect the normal use, the lining has no remarkable scratch to disk friction surface, can completed meet the requirements of users.

Originality/value

The automobile brake friction test wear rate detecting system adopts the components of USB-9211 DAQ, optoNCDT1700 non-contract high accuracy displacement sensor, in addition the Labview software to complete the functions such as lining wear rate real time detection, data multichannel real time acquisition, display, and storage record, etc., and uses LabSQL to import the detecting data to Microsoft Access database, which can satisfy the demands of various customers. Moreover, the wear rate real time detection can reflect the lining’s wear regulation of different manufacturers and different material and provide a reliable basis for selecting the appropriate lining material and predicting the lining’s lifetime.
Investigation on the accurate parameter estimation of photovoltaic (PV) module based on simplified two-diode model
Authors: Chitti Babu B. , Gurjar Suresh , Cermak Tomas
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to present a detailed investigation on the parameter estimation of a photovoltaic (PV) module by using a simplified two-diode model.

Design/methodology/approach

The studied PV module in this paper resembles an ideal two-diode model, and to reduce the computational time, the proposed model has a photocurrent source and two ideal-diodes and neglects the series and shunt resistances. Hence, for calculating the unknown parameters, only four parameters are required from the datasheet. Moreover, the studied model is simple and uses an easy modeling approach which is free from complexities.

Findings

The performance of the PV module is analyzed under non-standard test conditions by considering partial shading at different shaded levels, and it is found that the model has less computational time and gives accurate results.

Originality/value

The usefulness of this PV model is demonstrated with the help of several illustrative figures, and the performance of the PV module is evaluated.
Hourly global solar radiation estimation from MSG-SEVIRI images-case study: Algeria
Authors: Bouchouicha Kada , Razagui Abdelhak , Bachari Nour El Islam , Aoun Nouar
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to propose an approach based on physical model integration for surface and cloud albedo computation using an approximate form of the atmospheric radiative transfer equation and sun-pixel-satellite.

Design/methodology/approach

The data used in this study are global irradiance collected from for various sites in Algeria, and data were obtained from the processing of the high-resolution visible images taken by the Meteosat Second Generation satellite in 2010.

Findings

The results suggest that the standard deviation obtained with this method is similar to that obtained with current estimation methods. The hourly and daily correlation coefficients range between 0.95 and 0.97 and between 0.97 and 0.99, respectively. The hourly and daily mean bias errors range between −0.2 and +1.2 per cent and between −0.2 and +1.4 per cent, respectively. The hourly and daily root mean square errors range between 10 and 17 per cent and between 4 and 8 per cent, respectively.

Originality/value

This paper developed a new estimating method that derives the hourly global horizontal solar irradiation at a ground level from geostationary satellite data under local climate conditions.
The evaluation of anaerobic co-digestion and ethanol fermentation for bioenergy production from 200 ha farmland in the UK
Authors: Guk Erdogan , Kalkan Naci
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Bioenergy as a renewable energy type is found as a promising method to replace non-renewable energy. Anaerobic co-digestion, in which the microorganisms of two or more substrates break into biodegradable materials without oxygen, and fermentation, in which substances break into a simpler form in the presence of microorganisms and some bacteria, are the two frequently used methods that are were applied in this work.

Design/methodology/approach

A farmland currently being used for farming was selected, and the bioenergy potential of the farmland was evaluated by using the aforementioned two methods. In this work, segregated municipal wastes which were collected from nearby areas and animal manure were used as feedstock for anaerobic co-digestion, whereas wheat straw obtained from the farmland was used as feedstock for fermentation.

Findings

The total input energy required for the digestion systems and the collection of the feedstock products from the growth to the harvest phases was calculated. Thereafter, the generated output energy was calculated to obtain an energy balance of the techniques. All the processes were taken into account during the prediction of the cost of the given power plant. The power output capacity of the farmland was 245 MW with a total cost of $540,200.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the chosen research approach, the research results may lack generalisability. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test the proposed propositions further.

Originality/value

The result proves that the two methods were applicable and feasible to replace for the 200 ha farmland.
Impact of drying method of figs with small-scale flat-plate solar collector
Authors: Ullah Fahim , Kang Min , Hassan Lubna , Li Ninghui , Yang Jun , Wang Xingsheng , Khan Khattak Mansoor
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to develop a performance flat-plate solar collector that would be used as a solar drier for fruit fig (Ficus carica L). This study proposes how and why solar energy is important for drying the agricultural products. This study aims to expand the domain of solar collector for different purposes and, most important, for agricultural resource normally found in the literature.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper opted for an exploratory study using the flat-plate solar collector with drying chamber for drying purposes of agricultural products. During the experiment, the data were collected with moisture content, drying rate of the product and solar irradiation falls on the collector.

Findings

This paper describes that how flat-plate collector works for agricultural products and how to reduce the moisture content in the product (fig). Efficiency of collector was evaluated under the ambient temperatures of 24°C. Efficiency also significantly increased from 53 to 55 per cent with an increase in ambient temperature from 22 to 24 °C. Figs (Ficus carica L) were dried in the drying chamber of the flat-plate solar collector. The products were dried at temperature of 55-65°C and 15 to 20 per cent humidity.

Research limitations/implications

Because of this research chosen, the research results are beneficiary for agricultural users for drying purposes. Therefore, the researchers are encouraged to dry the agricultural product with flat-plate solar collector, because it reduced the moisture content of the product very fast.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to study that how flat-plat solar collector can be used.
Facile preparation of ZnO particles with different structures and their photocatalytic activity
Authors: Bian Li , Li Meixia , Lian Yiwei , Hao Yongjing , Xie Juan
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to report a novel preparation method of ZnO particles with different structures and their photocatalytic activity.

Design/methodology/approach

ZnO powders are prepared by a facile, economical and environment-friendly aqueous solution route. X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra are used to characterize the products. Photocatalytic activity of the samples is evaluated by degradation of organic pollutant pentachlorophenol under UV-vis irradiation.

Findings

It is found that three-dimensional ZnO hierarchical structures can be prepared via aqueous solution route without using any template or structure-directing agent, and the alkalinity of reaction solution is the key factor. All the as-prepared ZnO products have good catalytic activity under UV-vis light irradiation.

Originality/value

This report presents a simple method for the preparation of ZnO particles with excellent photocatalytic activity. Experimental results could provide useful reference for the treatment of chlorophenols in the future.
Primary study of a new permanent magnet flux switching machine over straight and spanned rotor configurations
Authors: Jenal Mahyuzie , Sulaiman Erwan , Soomro Hassan Ali , Naufal Syed Othman Syed Muhammad
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address a fundamental study and performance analysis of a proposed 6Slots-10Poles permanent magnet flux switching machine (PMFSM) using straight rotor (StR) and 6Slots-8Poles PMFSM with spanned rotor (SpR) structure.

Design/methodology/approach

Design configuration of the proposed machine was developed using commercial finite element analysis package and JMAG-Designer V.14 software, which provides two-dimensional finite element solver throughout the investigation. An electromagnetic performance analysis is carried out and compared over the two proposed topologies which consist of machines no-load and under-load conditions.

Findings

This paper demonstrates the finding of the proposed StR structure which consist of more favorable three-phase sinusoidal feature, lower cogging torque and higher output torque. Flux density attributes reveal higher established magnetizing flux concentration in StR compared with SpR. Consequently, the StR structure requires low armature current before it may start to rotate and provides better robust construction with less material consumption and cost.

Originality/value

This paper describes the novel design of a new PMFSM configuration pertinent for high-speed applications.
Spatial comparative analysis of parabolic trough collectors and photovoltaic systems in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Azhar Ali Khan Muhammad , Muhammad Baqir
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The aim of this study is to develop a mathematical model for solar power generation system which starts with the quantification of solar resources on different characteristic surfaces at any location.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a detailed quantitative analysis of solar potential at three different cities of Saudi Arabia: Riyadh, Mecca and Sharura. Direct normal insolation is calculated for one-axis tracking surfaces with rotation about East–West (EW) and North–South (NS) horizontal axes, a two-axes tracking surface and a fixed surface tilted at the latitude of each location and facing south. One-axis tracking parabolic trough collector with rotation about horizontal EW and NS axes, and photovoltaic systems are modeled; their performances and heat and optical losses from both systems are quantified for each location.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that energy output from the selected solar technologies is maximum and relatively stable in Sharura, whereas Mecca and Riyadh showed large variations during the course of the year.

Originality/value

A comparative analysis between the solar technologies would be very helpful for policy decisions to choose the best option.
TEM study of fine particles from coal-fired power plant ambient air
Authors: Pian Wei , Cheng Wenjing , Niu Hongya , Fan Jingsen
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This study aims to focus on the submicron particles (with diameter of 0.2-1.0 μm) of the ambient air from a coal-fired power plant. A systematic examination of their morphology, particle size and chemical element will be analyzed, so as to provide more scientific information and theoretical basis for the formation and control method of inhalable particles, as well as data support for environmental impact and ecological effects assessments.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the morphology, size distribution and elemental characteristics of submicron particles from ambient air of a coal-fired power plant are studied by single particle analysis.

Findings

The results show that atmospheric particles in coal-fired power plant are mainly spherical particles, and most of them are soot aggregates adhered or coated with other particles with few rectangle particles. The particles collected in the afternoon and evening are mainly of spherical particles, and small-sized particles collected in the morning are mainly spherical ones, while the overall concentration is larger than that of the spherical particles in the size range above 0.5 μm. The results indicated that the larger-sized spherical particles have a lower concentration.

Originality/value

Coal-fired power plants are still the main supply of electricity in China, but the inhalable particles, especially sub-micron particles (0.1-1.0 μm) cannot be effectively captured by the dust removal device from the coal-fired power plant. Thus, a large amount of inhalable particles is emitted into the atmosphere, becoming the major air pollutants in China.
Efficient bus based router for NOC architecture
Authors: Shrivastava Anurag , Sharma Sudhir Kumar
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Increase in the speed of processors has led to crucial role of communication in the performance of systems. As a result, routing is taken into consideration as one of the most important subjects of the network-on-chip (NOC) architecture. Routing algorithms to deadlock avoidance prevent packets route completely based on network traffic condition by means of restricting the route of packets. This action leads to less performance especially in non-uniform traffic patterns. On the other hand, true fully adaptive routing algorithm provides routing of packets completely based on traffic conditions. However, deadlock detection and recovery mechanisms are needed to handle deadlocks. Use of a global bus beside NOC as a parallel supportive environment provides a platform to offer advantages of both features of bus and NOC.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, the authors use this bus as an escaping path for deadlock recovery technique.

Findings

According to simulation results, this bus is a suitable platform for a deadlock recovery technique.

Originality/value

This bus is useful for broadcast and multicast operations, sending delay sensitive signals, system management and other services.
CO2 emission during the combustion of Orhaneli lignite coal
Authors: Ozkaymak Mehmet , Ceylan Mehmet Ali , Okutan Hasancan , Atakul Hüsnü , Berrin Engin , Coşkun Tuba , Inanç Özgür
Published: January 2017

Purpose

In Turkey, dependence on foreign countries for energy is a problem which upsets all economic balances. Turkey’s biggest fossil energy source is lignite coal. Therefore, energy conversion of lignite in thermal plants, causing minimum environmental effect is extremely important. The basic problem in terms of the combustion technology is to improve the combustion technology that can burn the low-qualified fuels that do not have standard fuel features (lignite, peat, schist). The most suitable technology today for the efficient and clean combustion of nonstandard low-qualified fuels is the combustion at fluidized-bed technology. In this study, CO2 emission that occurs during the combustion of Orhaneli coal that is one of our native low-qualified lignite, has been investigated according to the experimental study.

Design/methodology/approach

For this combustion experiment, laboratory-scaled circulating fluidized-bed (CFB) process that exists at TÜBITAK-MAM Energy Institute which has been designed and used before has been used. The effect of excess-air coefficient, combustion type and bed temperature to the greenhouse gas formation and CO2 emission has been investigated experimentally. In terms of flue gas emissions, it has been detected that the decrease of the amount of CO2 that has occurred has no positive effects on combustion efficiency, water vapor, SO2, NOx, CO and other gases which occur during deficient combustion must be thought as a whole and each reaction affects each other similar to complex reactions.

Findings

As a consequence of measuring CO2 emissions over 10 minute periods, CO2 emissions are 12.43 percent average, CO2 decreases at different air coefficient values; Often form undesirable side reactions such as CO, NOx with back and forth reactions.

Originality/value

The importance of aerodynamic structure of the system, and the losses and leakages forming in the system has been observed experimental and affected parameters are evaluated.
Microhabitat heterogeneity and a non‐native avian frugivore drive the population dynamics of an island endemic shrub, Cyrtandra dentata
Authors: Bialic‐Murphy Lalasia , Gaoue Orou G. , Kawelo Kapua
Published: January 2017

Understanding the role of environmental change in the decline of endangered species is critical for designing scale‐appropriate restoration plans. For locally endemic rare plants on the brink of extinction, frugivory can drastically reduce local recruitment by dispersing seeds away from geographically isolated populations. Dispersal of seeds away from isolated populations can ultimately lead to population decline. For localized endemic plants, fine‐scale changes in microhabitat can further limit population persistence. Evaluating the individual and combined impact of frugivores and microhabitat heterogeneity on the short‐term (i.e. transient) and long‐term (i.e. asymptotic) dynamics of plants will provide insight into the drivers of species rarity.

In this study, we used 4 years of demographic data to develop matrix projection models for a long‐lived shrub, Cyrtandra dentata (H. St. John & Storey) (Gesneriaceae), which is endemic to the island of O'ahu in Hawai'i. Furthermore, we evaluated the individual and combined influence of a non‐native frugivorous bird, Leiothrix lutea, and microhabitat heterogeneity on the short‐term and long‐term C. dentata population dynamics.

Frugivory by L. lutea decreased the short‐term and long‐term population growth rates. However, under the current level of frugivory at the field site the C. dentata population was projected to persist over time. Conversely, the removal of optimum microhabitat for seedling establishment (i.e. rocky gulch walls and boulders in the gulch bottom) reduced the short‐term and long‐term population growth rates from growing to declining.

Survival of mature C. dentata plants had the greatest influence on long‐term population dynamics, followed by the growth of seedlings and immature plants. The importance of mature plant survival was even greater when we simulated the combined effect of frugivory and the loss of optimal microhabitat, relative to population dynamics based on field conditions. In the short‐term (10 years), however, earlier life stages had the greatest influence on population growth rate.

Synthesis and applications. This study emphasizes how important it is to decouple rare plant management strategies in the short vs. long‐term in order to prioritize restoration actions, particularly when faced with multiple stressors not all of which can be feasibly managed. From an applied conservation perspective, our findings also illustrate that the life stage that, if improved by management, would have the greatest influence on population dynamics is dependent on the timeframe of interest and initial conditions of the population.
Responses of common and rare aliens and natives to nutrient availability and fluctuations
Authors: Liu Yanjie , van Kleunen Mark
Published: January 2017

Global environmental change not only includes changes in mean environmental conditions but also in temporal environmental fluctuations. Because it is frequently suggested that common species, and particularly invasive alien species, are phenotypically highly plastic, they might benefit more from these fluctuations than rare native and rare alien species. Experimental tests, however, are still lacking.

Here, we tested whether alien plant species take more advantage of increases in resource levels and fluctuations therein than native species, and whether common species do so more than rare species. Therefore, we grew seven common alien, seven rare alien, nine common native and six rare native herbaceous plants, in one treatment with constantly low nutrient availability and five treatments with high nutrient availability that differed in temporal availability of nutrients (constant, increasing, decreasing, single large pulse, multiple smaller pulses).

We found that all species produced more biomass and longer roots, and had a lower root mass fraction under high nutrient conditions than under low nutrient conditions, irrespective of their origin and commonness. Among the high nutrient treatments, the temporal pattern of nutrient supply also influenced biomass production, root allocation and root thickness, but the magnitude and/or directions of these responses varied among the groups of species. Particularly, we found that alien plant species, irrespective of whether they are common or rare, produced more biomass, and had a higher root mass fraction when nutrients were supplied as a single pulse in the middle of the growth period instead of supplied at a constant rate, whereas the reverse was true for the native species.

Synthesis. Our study suggests that species origin does not drive differences in plant biomass production, root morphology and allocation in response to changes in mean environmental nutrient availability. However in our study, alien plant species, in contrast to native plant species, benefited from a large nutrient pulse. This suggests that increased fluctuations in nutrient availability might promote alien plant invasions.
Deciding to Help: Effects of Risk and Crisis Communication
Authors: Bakker Marije H. , Kerstholt José H. , Giebels Ellen
Published: January 2017

This study aimed to gain insight into the (combined) effects of risk and crisis communication on adequate behaviour during a crisis situation. In addition, it adds to the existing literature by examining the effects of risk and crisis communication on psychological factors that are involved in decision‐making during a crisis. This study, utilizing a virtual environment, was a 3 (risk communication: risk information vs. risk information with course of action vs. control) × 2 (crisis communication: with recommended behaviours vs. without recommended behaviours) between subjects design. Both risk and crisis communication supported adequate behaviour in a crisis situation. In addition, through risk communication, participants had less affective reactions. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Association of type 2 diabetes mellitus with the interaction between low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 5 (LRP5) polymorphisms and overweight and obesity in rural Chinese adults
Authors: Zhang Lu , Wang Jinjin , Zhang Ming , Wang Guo’an , Shen Yanxia , Wu Dongting , Wang Chongjian , Li Linlin , Ren Yongcheng , Wang Bingyuan , Zhang Hongyan , Yang Xiangyu , Zhao Yang , Han Chengyi , Zhou Junmei , Pang Chao , Yin Lei , Zhao Jingzhi , Luo Xinping , Hu Dongsheng
Published: January 2017

Background

Low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 5 (LRP5) plays an important role in glucose and cholesterol metabolism. The present cohort study evaluated associations of LRP5 variants with the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in a rural adult Chinese population.

Methods

In all, 7751 subjects aged ≥18 years without T2DM underwent genotyping at baseline; 6326 subjects (81.62%) were followed‐up, and 5511 with a clear disease outcome were eligible for analysis. The same questionnaire was administered and the same anthropometric and blood biochemical examinations were performed at baseline and follow‐up. Association analysis was performed for five single nucleotide polymorphisms and haplotypes of LRP5.

Results

Cox proportional hazards testing of three different genetic models found no significant association between T2DM and LRP5 after adjusting for potential risk factors (P > 0.05). However, the incidence of T2DM in subjects with LRP5 mutational genotypes was higher in the overweight/obese than normal weight population. Under the dominant model, the risk of T2DM was increased with an interaction between rs11228303 and the waist‐to‐height ratio adjusted for baseline age, sex, and family history of T2DM (synergy index [SI] = 4.172; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.014–17.166)], and body mass index (SI = 3.237; 95% CI 1.102–9.509). Furthermore, the A allele of rs3758644 was related to decreased fasting plasma insulin and homeostatic model assessment of β‐cell function levels, whereas the T allele of rs12363572 was related to increased high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in new‐onset diabetes patients (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The risk of T2DM may be associated with interactions between the LRP5 gene and overweight and obesity. Polymorphisms of LRP5 are related to β‐cell function and lipid metabolism.
Association between serum CA 19‐9 and metabolic syndrome: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Du Rui , Cheng Di , Lin Lin , Sun Jichao , Peng Kui , Xu Yu , Xu Min , Chen Yuhong , Bi Yufang , Wang Weiqing , Lu Jieli , Ning Guang
Published: January 2017

Background

Increasing evidence suggests that serum CA 19‐9 is associated with abnormal glucose metabolism. However, data on the association between CA 19‐9 and metabolic syndrome is limited. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between serum CA 19‐9 and metabolic syndrome.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted on 3641 participants aged ≥40 years from the Songnan Community, Baoshan District in Shanghai, China. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between serum CA 19‐9 and metabolic syndrome.

Results

Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that compared with participants in the first tertile of serum CA 19‐9, those in the second and third tertiles had increased odds ratios (OR) for prevalent metabolic syndrome (multivariate adjusted OR 1.46 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.11–1.92] and 1.51 [95% CI 1.14–1.98]; P
trend = 0.005). In addition, participants with elevated serum CA 19‐9 (≥37 U/mL) had an increased risk of prevalent metabolic syndrome compared with those with serum CA 19‐9 < 37 U/mL (multivariate adjusted OR 2.10; 95% CI 1.21–3.65).

Conclusion

Serum CA 19‐9 is associated with an increased risk of prevalent metabolic syndrome. In order to confirm this association and identify potential mechanisms, prospective cohort and mechanic studies should be performed.