bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three challenges for behavioural science and policy: the empirical, the normative and the political
Authors: LEPENIES ROBERT , MACKAY KATHRYN , QUIGLEY MUIREANN
Published: August 2018

In a ‘post-truth’ era in which personality and opinion trump evidence and reason, the need for frankness in debates about the use and boundaries of science and policy is high. We welcome the reflective and nuanced approach to behavioural science in policy-making in Sanders, Snijders and Hallsworth's (2018) piece. Despite our support for the approach in this paper, we suggest that there are deeper issues than are currently acknowledged. Our critique tackles three issues: the empirical, the normative and the political. In the first section, we examine what counts as ‘behavioural’ and how this label is used to legitimate a range of policy activities. We then look at randomised controlled trials in the next section, highlighting the extra-scientific dimensions of the empirical ‘What Works’ revolution. Finally, we question some ontological assumptions that drive empirical research and its translation into policy, asking where the collective is to be found in behavioural public policy.
Complexity as an opportunity and challenge for behavioural public policy
Authors: SPENCER NATHALIE
Published: August 2018

This paper is a response to Sanders, Snijders and Hallsworth (2018). The challenges and opportunities of behavioural public policy Sanders, Snijders and Hallsworth discuss highlight a conundrum for the field: the impact of behavioural interventions is difficult to measure accurately in complex situations, and yet complexity is inherent in the very areas in most need of impact. Behavioural interventions will be only one tool of many to work towards broader organisational, systems and social change. As a field, we should be looking to other disciplines, inviting them into the fold of discussions on how to achieve these changes. Finally, while the mantra of nudge for good is a useful beacon, intentions are only part of the equation, and a number of questions should be asked when considering a behavioural policy intervention.
Rheology of dense granular suspensions
Authors: Guazzelli Élisabeth , Pouliquen Olivier
Published: August 2018

Suspensions are composed of mixtures of particles and fluid and are omnipresent in natural phenomena and in industrial processes. The present paper addresses the rheology of concentrated suspensions of non-colloidal particles. While hydrodynamic interactions or lubrication forces between the particles are important in the dilute regime, they become of lesser significance when the concentration is increased, and direct particle contacts become dominant in the rheological response of concentrated suspensions, particularly those close to the maximum volume fraction where the suspension ceases to flow. The rheology of these dense suspensions can be approached via a diversity of approaches that the paper introduces successively. The mixture of particles and fluid can be seen as a fluid with effective rheological properties but also as a two-phase system wherein the fluid and particles can experience relative motion. Rheometry can be undertaken at an imposed volume fraction but also at imposed values of particle normal stress, which is particularly suited to yield examination of the rheology close to the jamming transition. The response of suspensions to unsteady or transient flows provides access to different features of the suspension rheology. Finally, beyond the problem of suspension of rigid, non-colloidal spheres in a Newtonian fluid, there are a great variety of complex mixtures of particles and fluid that remain relatively unexplored.
Impact of climate and humans on the range dynamics of the woolly mammoth (Mammuthus primigenius) in Europe during MIS 2
Authors: Nadachowski Adam , Lipecki Grzegorz , Baca Mateusz , Żmihorski Michał , Wilczyński Jarosław
Published: August 2018

The woolly mammoth (Mammuthus primigenius) was widespread in almost all of Europe during the late Pleistocene. However, its distribution changed because of population fluctuations and range expansions and reductions. During Marine Oxygen Isotope Stage 2 (MIS 2), these processes were highly dynamic. Our analyses of 318 radiocarbon dates from 162 localities, obtained directly from mammoth material, confirmed important changes in mammoth range between ~28.6 and ~14.1 ka. The Greenland stadial 3 interval (27.5–23.3 ka) was the time of maximum expansion of the mammoth in Europe during MIS 2. The continuous range was soon fragmented and reduced, resulting in the disappearance ofMammuthusduring the last glacial maximum from ~21.4 to ~19.2 ka in all parts of the North European Plain. It is not clear whether mammoths survived in the East European Plain. The mammoth returned to Europe soon after ~19.0 ka, and for the next 3–4 millennia played an important role in the lifeways of Epigravettian societies in eastern Europe. Mammoths became extinct in most of Europe by ~14.0 ka, except for core areas such as the far northeast of Europe, where they survived until the beginning of the Holocene. No significant correlation was found between the distribution of the mammoth in Europe and human activity.
Genetic predisposition to salt-sensitive normotension and its effects on salt taste perception and intake
Authors: Pilic Leta , Mavrommatis Yiannis
Published: August 2018

Salt sensitivity is an independent CVD and mortality risk factor, which is present in both hypertensive and normotensive populations. It is genetically determined and it may affect the relationship between salt taste perception and salt intake. The aim of this study was to explore the genetic predisposition to salt sensitivity in a young and a middle-aged adult population and its effects on salt taste perception and salt intake. The effects of Na loading on blood pressure (BP) were investigated in twenty normotensive subjects and salt sensitivity defined as the change in BP after 7 d of low-Na (51·3 mmol Na/d) and 7 d of high-Na diet (307·8 mmol Na/d). Salt taste perception was identified using the British Standards Institution sensory analysis method (BS ISO 3972:2011). Salt intake was assessed with a validated FFQ. DNA was genotyped for SNP in the SLC4A5, SCNN1B and TRPV1 genes. The subjects with AA genotype of the SLC4A5 rs7571842 exhibited the highest increase in BP (∆ systolic BP=7·75 mmHg, P=0·002, d=2·4; ∆ diastolic BP=6·25 mmHg, P=0·044, d=1·3; ∆ mean arterial pressure=6·5 mmHg, P=0·014, d=1·7). The SLC4A5 rs10177833 was associated with salt intake (P=0·037), and there was an association between salt taste perception and salt sensitivity (rs 0·551, P=0·041). In conclusion, there is a genetic predisposition to salt sensitivity and it is associated with salt taste perception. The association between salt taste perception and discretionary salt use suggests that preference for salty taste may be a driver of salt intake in a healthy population and warrants further investigation.
Combinatorial Analysis of Growth Models for Series-Parallel Networks
Authors: KUBA MARKUS , PANHOLZER ALOIS
Published: August 2018

We give combinatorial descriptions of two stochastic growth models for series-parallel networks introduced by Hosam Mahmoud by encoding the growth process via recursive tree structures. Using decompositions of the tree structures and applying analytic combinatorics methods allows a study of quantities in the corresponding series-parallel networks. For both models we obtain limiting distribution results for the degree of the poles and the length of a random source-to-sink path, and furthermore we get asymptotic results for the expected number of source-to-sink paths. Moreover, we introduce generalizations of these stochastic models by encoding the growth process of the networks via further important increasing tree structures.
Islam and the Islamic State's Magazine,Dabiq
Authors: Jacoby Tim
Published: August 2018

Since the emergence of the Islamic State, considerable debate has arisen over the relationship (or lack of therein) between its ideological discourse and broader Islamic exegeses and learning. This paper aims to connect these wider discussions to its self-defined ideological standpoint as set out in its magazine,Dabiq. All 15 of these, published between June 2014 and July 2016, amounting to more than 900 pages, are examined to assess their authors’ (1) analysis of the Qur'an (2) use of classical scholarship, and (3) engagement with contemporary readings of Islam.
HA1077 displays synergistic activity with daclatasvir against hepatitis C virus and suppresses the emergence of NS5A resistance-associated substitutions in mice
Authors: Lee Seung-Hoon , Moon Jae-Su , Pak Bo-Yeong , Kim Geon-Woo , Lee Wooseong , Cho Hee , Kim SangKyu , Kim Seong-Jun , Oh Jong-Won
Published: August 2018

The kinase C-related kinase 2 (PRK2), which phosphorylates hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA polymerase, is a proviral factor enhancing HCV replication. Here, we report on the in vivo anti-HCV efficacy of HA1077, which inhibits viral genome replication by targeting PRK2 and displays viral entry inhibitory activity by targeting Rho-associated kinase. HA1077 showed synergistic antiviral activity selectively with nonstructural protein 5 A (NS5A) inhibitors including daclatasvir (DCV). HA1077 oral administration substantially reduced serum viral loads in mice bearing HCV genotype 2a-replicating Huh7 xenografts. When administered with DCV, HA1077 potentiated the antiviral efficacy of DCV and suppressed the generation of DCV resistance-associated variants (RAVs). By deep-sequencing analysis, we uncovered an unprecedented DCV-induced polymorphism at the poly-proline motif (PxxPxxP) of NS5A. Coadministration of HA1077 reduced such a polymorphism. Overall, our results demonstrate the potential therapeutic benefit of combination therapy with HA1077 plus DCV for HCV patients carrying emerging or pre-existing RAVs toward NS5A inhibitors.
Transverse Separation of the Outer Retinal Layer at the Peripapillary in Glaucomatous Myopes
Authors: Kim Yong Chan , Hwang Ho Sik , Park Hae-Young Lopilly , Park Chan Kee
Published: August 2018

Glaucoma specialists often overlook the outer retinal changes because the glaucomatous optic neuropathy typically involves retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL). By detailed inspection of the outer retina in myopic eyes, we observed a separation of the inner nuclear layer (INL) from the outer nuclear layer (ONL) at the peripapillary sclera (pp-sclera). Therefore, we conducted a retrospective observation of 108 eyes of 108 Korean subjects with myopia assessed by swept-source optical coherence tomography (SSOCT) and divided into normal and glaucomatous eyes. Mean subject age, refractive error and axial length difference between 2 groups were insignificant, respectively. To quantify the ONL-INL separation, straight-line distance from ONL endpoint to INL endpoint was measured at the center of the optic disc by SSOCT horizontal scan. The glaucomatous group had significantly large ONL-INL separation than the non-glaucomatous group (p = 0.027) but had no significant difference in INL – Anterior scleral canal opening (ASCO) separation. The width of ONL-INL separation were associated with β-peripapillary atrophy (β-PPA), degree of horizontal tilt of the optic disc and worse glaucomatous RNFL defect by Pearson’s correlation analysis (all p < 0.001, respectively). In conclusion, we demonstrate transverse separation of INL from ONL at the peripapillary region, which was significantly associated with glaucomatous optic nerve damage. These observations may be of interest to elucidate the role of PPA in glaucoma pathogenesis and a clinical index to take notice for myopic subjects.
MEMS terahertz-to-infrared band converter using frequency selective planar metamaterial
Authors: Alves Fabio , Pimental Leroy , Grbovic Dragoslav , Karunasiri Gamani
Published: August 2018

A MEMS terahertz-to-infrared converter has been developed based on the unique properties of metamaterials that allow for selective control of the absorptivity and emissivity of the sensors. The converter consists of a sensing element structurally made of planar metamaterial membranes, connected to a substrate frame by four symmetrically-located thermal insulators. Upon THz absorption, the temperature of the sensing element increases and the outward infrared flux from the backside of the element is read by a commercial long-wave infrared camera. Two configurations were designed and fabricated with metamaterial absorptivity optimized for 3.8 THz and 4.75 THz quantum cascade lasers. The first sensor, fabricated with an oxidized aluminum backside, exhibits higher responsivity, but lower conversion efficiency than the second sensor, fabricated with a metamaterial backside. The spectral characteristics of the metamaterial on the two sides can be optimized to improve both responsivity and sensitivity, while keeping the sensors’ thermal time constant sufficiently small for real time imaging. No dedicated electronics or optics are required for readout making metamaterial-based MEMS THz-to-IR converters very attractive for THz imaging as means of a simple attachment to commercial IR cameras.
Significantly enhanced energy storage performance in BiFeO3/BaTiO3/BiFeO3 sandwich-structured films through crystallinity regulation
Authors: Hou Yafei , Han Renlu , Li Weiping , Luo Laihui , Fei Weidong
Published: August 2018

By rational design of dielectric contrast, both excellent discharge energy density and efficiency could be simultaneously obtained in sandwich-structured films.
Construction of uniform ZrO2 nanoshells by buffer solutions
Authors: Tao Xian-Sen , Sun Yong-Gang , Lin Xi-Jie , Hu Lin-Lin , Sun Tian-Qi , Zhang Dong , Cao An-Min , Wan Li-Jun
Published: August 2018

The growth kinetics of ZrO2 could be well-tuned in buffer solutions, which led to uniform ZrO2 nanoshells.
Elimination of concentration dependent luminescence quenching in surface protected upconversion nanoparticles
Authors: Zheng Xiang , Shikha Swati , Zhang Yong
Published: August 2018

Separated sensitizing layer is an effective way to minimize sensitizer concentration quenching in surface protected lanthanide-doped upconversion nanoparticle.
Chloroform as a carbon monoxide source in palladium-catalyzed synthesis of 2-amidoimidazo[1,2-a]pyridines
Authors: Nitha P. R. , Joseph Manu M. , Gopalan Greeshma , Maiti Kaustabh Kumar , Radhakrishnan K. V. , Das Parthasarathi
Published: August 2018

A palladium-catalyzed aminocarbonylation strategy exploiting chloroform as a CO source has been developed for the synthesis of biologically active 2-amidoimidazopyridine scaffolds.
Syntheses of 12H-benzo[a]xanthen-12-ones and benzo[a]acridin-12(7H)-ones through Au(i)-catalyzed Michael addition/6-endo-trig cyclization/aromatization cascade annulation
Authors: Xiong Zhiling , Zhang Xinhang , Li Yangming , Peng Xiaoshi , Fu Jiayue , Guo Jiajia , Xie Fukai , Jiang Chongguo , Lin Bin , Liu Yongxiang , Cheng Maosheng
Published: August 2018

A gold(i)-catalyzed cascade strategy to synthesize both 12H-benzo[a]xanthen-12-ones and benzo[a]acridin-12(7H)-ones was developed.
Reading as Statistical Learning
Authors: Arciuli Joanne
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this tutorial is to explain how learning to read can be thought of as learning statistical regularities and to demonstrate why this is relevant for theory, modeling, and practice. This tutorial also shows how triangulation of methods and cross-linguistic research can be used to gain insight.

Method

The impossibility of conveying explicitly all of the regularities that children need to acquire in a deep orthography, such as English, can be demonstrated by examining lesser-known probabilistic orthographic cues to lexical stress. Detection of these kinds of cues likely occurs via a type of implicit learning known as statistical learning (SL). The first part of the tutorial focuses on these points. Next, studies exploring how individual differences in the capacity for SL relate to variability in word reading accuracy in the general population are discussed. A brief overview of research linking impaired SL and dyslexia is also provided. The final part of the tutorial focuses on how we might supplement explicit literacy instruction with implicit learning methods and emphasizes the value of testing the efficacy of new techniques in the classroom. The basic and applied research reviewed here includes corpus analyses, behavioral testing, computational modeling, and classroom-based research. Although some of these methods are not commonly used in clinical research, the depth and breadth of this body of work provide a compelling case for why reading can be thought of as SL and how this view can inform practice.

Conclusion

Implicit methods that draw on the principles of SL can supplement the much-needed explicit instruction that helps children learn to read. This synergy of methods has the potential to spark innovative practices in literacy instruction and remediation provided by educators and clinicians to support typical learners and those with developmental disabilities.
Multibeam radar based on linear frequency modulated waveform diversity
Authors: Kocjancic Leon , Balleri Alessio , Merlet Thomas
Published: August 2018

Multibeam radar (MBR) systems based on waveform diversity require a set of orthogonal waveforms in order to generate multiple channels in transmission and extract them efficiently at the receiver with digital signal processing. Linear frequency modulated (LFM) signals are extensively used in radar systems due to their pulse compression properties, Doppler tolerance, and ease of generation. Here, the authors investigate the level of isolation between MBR channels based on LFM chirps with rectangular and Gaussian amplitude envelopes. The orthogonal properties and the mathematical expressions of the isolation are derived as a function of the chirp design diversity, and specifically for diverse frequency slopes and frequency offsets. The analytical expressions are validated with a set of simulations as well as with experiments at C‐band using a rotating target.
The possible common origin of M 16 and M 17
Authors: Comerón F. , Torra J.
Published: August 2018

Context. It has been suggested that the well-studied giant HII regions M 16 and M 17 may have had a common origin, being an example of large-scale triggered star formation. While some features of the distribution of the interstellar medium in the region support this interpretation, no definitive detection of an earlier population of massive stars responsible for the triggering has been made thus far.

Aims. We have carried out observations looking for red supergiants in the area covered by a giant shell seen in HI and CO centered on galactic coordinates l ∼ 14°5, b ∼ +1° whose emission peaks near the same radial velocity as the bulk of the emission from both giant HII regions, which are located along the shell. Red supergiants have ages in the range expected for the parent association whose most massive members could have triggered the formation of the shell and of the giant HII regions along its rim.

Methods. We have obtained spectroscopy in the visible of a sample of red stars selected on the basis of their infrared colors, whose magnitudes are consistent with them being red supergiants if they are located at the distance of M 16 and M 17. Spectroscopy is needed to distinguish red supergiants from AGB stars and RGB stars, which are expected to be abundant along the line of sight.

Results. Out of a sample of 37 bright red stars, we identify four red supergiants that confirm the existence of massive stars in the age range between ∼10 and ∼30 Myr in the area. At least three of them have Gaia DR2 parallaxes consistent with them being at the same distance as M 16 and M 17.

Conclusions. The evidence of past massive star formation within the area of the gaseous shell lends support to the idea that it was formed by the combined action of stellar winds and ionizing radiation of the precursors of the current red supergiants. These could be the remnants of a richer population, whose most massive members have already exploded as core-collapse supernovae. The expansion of the shell against the surrounding medium, perhaps combined with the overrun of preexisting clouds, is thus a plausible trigger of the formation of a second generation of stars currently responsible for the ionization of M 16 and M 17.
Exploitation of dimension-dependent behavior of piezoelectric metamaterial with LC shunt circuit
Authors: Xu Jiawen , Yan Ruqiang
Published: August 2018

To release the potential of piezoelectric metamaterial with LC local resonance, in this research we discuss its dimension-dependent behavior for the first time. It's found that the bandgap behavior is primarily related to the length/width of the piezoelectric transducers. In particular, the bandgap width of the piezoelectric metamaterial can be increased by 3.01 times by optimizing the transducers which has constant area of 64 mm2 and height of 0.5 mm. Moreover, it's illustrated that optimization of the dimension of transducer may yield better wave attenuation capability than adopting larger transducers. The analysis of the dimension-dependent behavior here is potential to be applied in the optimization of piezoelectric metamaterial.
Effect of forming condition on compressive strength of hydroxyapatite-bioactive glass compact rod
Authors: Wattanutchariya Wassanai , Sangkas Teerawat
Published: August 2018

With rising concerns regarding alloy implants, alternative biomaterials are currently studied, to avoid the adverse effects of metal on the human body such as irritation and inflammation. Hydroxyapatite (HA) and Bioactive glass (BG) are two bio-ceramics, which have been implemented in medical applications such as bone implants and fixation parts due to their biocompatibility and close resemblance to the mineralized phase of human bone. Furthermore, these materials can be synthesized from natural sources. In this study, M8 screws rod which are commonly implemented for bone fixation was selected as a case study to investigate an effect of forming conditions on the mechanical property of the composite structure. HA and BG were synthesized and formed into a composite specimen using a hydraulic pressing machine. Full factorial experimental design was employed to solve for an optimal forming condition. 3 factors consisting of mixing ratio, pressure and holding time for pressing were investigated for their impacts on the specimen’s compressive strength. The result revealed that the BG ratio and pressure have a significant effect on the structural strength. The maximum compressive strength of 32.20 MPa was obtained from the specimen with 7.5 wt% of BG, 120 kg/cm2of pressure and 30 second of holding time.
The effect of cell boundary on 2D foam
Authors: AbdelKader Atef
Published: August 2018

We have studied the effect of cell boundary on 2D foam, with particular attention to perfect arrays of identical bubbles, and those containing only a single defect with time. We have also examined the effect of the wetness of the foam, observing the stability of two-dimensional foam comprising bubble rafts constrained to a fixed area of liquid surface. Perfectly six-fold coordinated foam appear to be unstable against loss of cohesion, but the lifetime to breakage of the perfect foam increases systematically with changing the cell boundaries. Foams containing a single defect are stable against such breakage due to the elastic stress fields around it.
Production of low impurity aluminium rotor for motor efficiency enhancement
Authors: Payakkapol Savitri , Chayopitak Nattapon , Kunsuwan Panya , Ohtake Naoto , Srimanosaowapak Sompong
Published: August 2018

Induction motors have been widely used in various electrical applications. However, their efficiency are still limited due to losses occurring during operation, especially for smaller ratings. Higher the electrical conductivity of motor rotor by lower its impurity content is one of practical and simple way to improve motor efficiency. The aim of this work is to reduce the impurity content of aluminium rotor by addition of boron in the form of Al-5wt%B master alloy and Na2B4O7-NaCl-KCl flux, and then sedimention of their precipitated particles. The purer melt was then cast as rotors for single-phase induction motors. With the amount of addition of boron in aluminium melt in this work, boron in Al-5wt%B master alloy was more pronounced in removing impurities in aluminium melt than that in Na2B4O7. It was found that the rotors made of aluminium melt with lower impurity contents and hence higher electrical conductivity resulted in more enhancement of motor efficiency.
Design and simulate of LQR-Fuzzy controller for unicycle robot with double flywheels
Authors: Chantarachit Surachat
Published: August 2018

This research is focus on design and simulate unicycle robot with double flywheels model with LQR-Fuzzy controller. Roll balancing torque is generated by gyroscopic effect. Pitch balancing torque is applied by inverted pendulum concept. To control the heading of the robot, the angular momentum from both flywheel is applied to control this. The robot model is based on Euler-Lagrange equations. The non-linear model is linearization by Taylor series expansion. The simulation results conducted by MATLAB/Simulink. LQR-Fuzzy is combination algorithm between LQR and Fuzzy controller. The main structure control is the LQR controller and use the Fuzzy controller to adjust the close loop controller gain. The simulation results is simulated and compared with conventional LQR.
Seismic performance of a high-rise residential building model in Purwokerto, Indonesia
Authors: Haryanto Yanuar , Sthenly Gan Buntara , Gunawan Wariyatno Nanang , Wahyu Indriyati Eva
Published: August 2018

We evaluated the performance of a high-rise residential building model in Purwokerto, Indonesia due to the seismic load. The evaluation was performed based on seismic loads given in the 2002 and 2012 Indonesian National Standard (SNI) using linear static analysis, dynamic response analysis and pushover analysis. Based on the linear static analysis, the drift ratio decreased by an average of 34.42 and 32.61% for the X and Y directions respectively. Meanwhile, based on the dynamic response analysis, the drift ratio also decreased by an average of 30.74 and 27.33% for the X and Y directions respectively. In addition, the pushover analysis indicates that the performance of this high-rise residential building model is still at Immediate Occupancy (IO) level. The post-earthquake damage state in which the building remains safe to occupy, essentially retaining the pre-earthquake design strength and stiffness of the structure. The risk of life-threatening injury as a result of structural damage is very low. Although some minor structural repairs may be appropriate, these would generally not be required prior to re-occupancy.
Shear model with shear-flexure interaction for non-linear analysis of reinforced concrete frame element
Authors: Sae-Long Worathep , Limkatanyu Suchart
Published: August 2018

This paper presents the shear constitutive model for the reinforced concrete (R/C) frame structures analysis under monotonic and cyclic loading. The proposed model is adopted and modified from Mergos and Koppos model [1] that accounts the shear stiffness degradation effect by the shear-flexure interaction in the plastic hinge region. Firstly, the proposed shear model starts from the primary curve without the damages due to the shear-flexure interaction effect. Then, the shear-flexure interaction effect is taken into consideration at the locations of plastic hinges and this effect leads to the degradation of the shear strength and shear stiffness on the undamaged primary curve that is replaced with the damaged primary curve. To determine the sectional shear stiffness with the shear-flexure interaction, an alternative way of the iterative procedure is proposed here. Finally, a numerical example is used to verify the characteristics and behavior of the R/C frame system and confirm accuracy and computational efficiency of the proposed model among the experimental data.
A study on dynamic response of functionally graded sandwich beams under different dynamic loadings
Authors: Songsuwan Wachirawit , Pimsarn Monsak , Wattanasakulpong Nuttawit
Published: August 2018

In this research, free and forced vibration of functionally graded sandwich beams is considered using Timoshenko beam theory which takes into account the significant effects of transverse shear deformation and rotary inertia. The governing equations of motion are formulated from Lagrange's equations and they are solved by using The Ritz and Newmark methods. The results are presented in both tabular and graphical forms to show the effects of layer thickness ratios, boundary conditions, length to height ratios, etc. on natural frequencies and dynamic deflections of the beams. According to the numerical results, all parametric studies considered in this research have significant impact on free and forced behaviour of the beams; for example, the frequency is low and the dynamic deflection is large for the beams which are hinged at both ends.
Hybrid artificial intelligence-based bond strength model of CFRP-lightweight concrete composite
Authors: Macabenta Lazo Emmanuel , Pepard Mendoza Rinchon John
Published: August 2018

Different retrofitting techniques are commonly used to sustain the design life of heavy damage and deteriorated concrete structures, whilst epoxy-bonded carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) has emerged as a widely known retrofitting method. Consequently, a sound understanding of the bond strength between structural lightweight concrete (LWC) and CFRP based on influential factors is essential in safety and economic requirements. In this study, a hybrid bond strength model using the artificial neural network (ANN) and genetic algorithm (GA) was developed to furtherly understand the bond of a CFRP strengthened LWC structure. ANN was able to establish under satisfactory performance the relationship between the maximum bond load and the following influential parameters: width of CFRP (bfrp), total CFRP bond length (Lfrp), CFRP thickness (tfrp), and CFRP angle of orientation (θfrp). Furthermore, GA was able to derive the optimal configuration of the influential parameters resulted in high bond performance. Moreover, the optimization results also validated the sensitivity of each parameter on the interfacial bond behavior between LWC and CFRP.
Simplification of sound-pressure characteristics using narrow
flow channels subject with temperature gradient
Authors: Kyoden Tomoaki
Published: August 2018

A thermoacoustic engine is one of promising system for utilization of unused energy. The object
of this paper is to study the system of unused energy, such as heat energy and sound energy in noise using
thermoacoustic engine. The thermoacoustic engine is composed of a stack sandwiched by two heat exchangers and tube. The stack has many narrow flow channels and its length for 50 mm. For example, in
order to create narrow flow channels, the stack is comprised of wire-mesh screen. When the steep
temperature gradient is made in the stack, a self-exited gas oscillation is generated. Thus, heat energy can be
converted into sound energy. In this paper, thermoacoustic conversion device applied for noise energy
generated from engine plants was presented. The noise has complicated frequency characteristics and low
energy density. We demonstrated selective amplification of acoustic pressure only one-frequency in noise
by utilization of the technique of thermoacoustic engine. In addition, the other frequencies were attenuated
by viscosity dissipation in the stack. Summarizing these results, the simplification and amplified sound was
created from complex noise.
Influence of load increment ratio on one-dimensional consolidation behaviour
Authors: Yoshidomi Takahiro , Iinuma Koichi , Sugiyama Motohiro
Published: August 2018

In this study, we conducted a stage loading consolidation test with varying load increment ratio and investigated its effect. By adjusting the primary consolidation ratio of one-dimensional consolidation analysis with secondary consolidation taken into account, it is possible to reproduce the consolidation amount-time curve affected by the load increment ratio.
The design of the botanical indoor air biofilter system for the
atmospheric particle removal
Authors: Ibrahim Izdihar Zahirah , Chong Wen-Tong , Yusoff Sumiani
Published: August 2018

Indoor environmental quality (IEQ) objective generally focus on providing energizing and
comfortable environments for occupants and minimizing the risk of building-related health problems. Living
green walls are natural air-filters that creates a cleaner and revitalizing work environment that will lead to
better IEQ. The research presented here describes the design (the new concept) of the botanical indoor air
biofilter (BIAB) and modelling conducted to determine the effectiveness of the system in reducing the
indoor airborne particulate matter levels. The BIAB was also evaluated for its single-pass filtration for
particles ranging in diameter from 2.5 to 10 Μ along with total suspended particles. The system is
comprised of three functional components; a region of vertically grown plants as botanical section, an
evaporative cooling pad as cooling section (additional section from a commercial BIAB), and a mechanical
ventilation system that supply cool filtered air to surrounding. The complete system recorded highest
removal efficiencies of 85% for TSP, 75.2% for PM2.5, and 71.9% for PM10. It indicated that with the
additional component in the BIAB system (cooling component), it provides enhancement of the particulate
removal due to the ability in absorbing the dust particles and filtration dynamics as the polluted air pass
through the wetted cooling pad and the light shower of water.
Users’ long-term satisfaction with post-disaster permanent housing: a case study of 2010 Merapi Eruption, Indonesia
Authors: Oo Bee Lan , Sunindijo Riza , Lestari Fatma
Published: August 2018

An objective evaluation of users’ long-term satisfaction with the post-disaster permanent housing provided is important for judging the successes or failures of housing reconstruction programs. Focussing on four resettlement sites built via the REKOMPAK program after the 2010 Merapi eruption, this paper examines the users’ long-term satisfaction with the provided housing, and explores how their satisfaction level relates to their demographic characteristics and level of participation in the reconstruction processes. The results show that the households are in overall satisfied with the present housing. Their overall satisfaction level is statistically positively associated with household income, but not their level of participation and other demographic characteristics. These findings provide evidence on a satisfactory outcome in the long-term for the REKOMPAK, a community-based reconstruction program that was implemented in Indonesia since 2004, and a useful insight for local authorities, humanitarian and other agencies involved in post-disaster reconstruction program.
A design of LED driver circuit for reducing production cost in Thailand industry
Authors: Lapsongphon Chantima , Pullteap Saroj
Published: August 2018

In this paper, the designing of a modified flyback converter circuit for 100 Watts LED lighting has been demonstrated. Some important factors, i.e. efficiency (ɛ), power factor (PF), and total harmonic current distortion (THDi), are considered for interpreting the performance of the proposed circuit. A commercial driver circuit which an efficiency of 94% and price of ∼2,000 THB has, consequently, been employed as a reference circuit. Two experimental setups, performance investigation and cost analysis, have been demonstrated for confirming the concept designed. However, the experimental results shown that an efficiency of the developed driver is 93.93%, while the implementation cost is 1,257 THB respectively. Compared with the reference circuit, we found that the performance of modified flyback circuit is almost equivalent in any parameters, while the cost is cheaper than the reference of 37.15%. This implies that there is a possibility to transfer the knowledge of designing concept to mass production for Thailand industry. In addition, it would thus be reduced the investment cost by the importation driver circuits from other countries and also to support Thailand industry for producing the high quality goods for exporting aboard.
Microstructure evolution of Al-7wt%Si-2wt%Fe alloy processed by high-pressure torsion
Authors: Wongsa-Ngam Jittraporn , Phongphisutthinan Chakkrist , Langdon Terence G.
Published: August 2018

The microstructure evolution of an aluminum silicon-based alloy after severe plastic deformation processing was examined. An aluminum silicon-based alloy; Al-7wt%Si-2wt%Fe, was processed by the severe plastic deformation technique called high-pressure torsion at room temperature under a high pressure of 6.0 GPa and rotational speed of 1.0 rpm with numbers of revolution up to 5 turns. Microstructure evolution, especially intermetallic phase, was observed using an optical microscope and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The effects of high-pressure torsion on the Fe intermetallic compounds in Al-Si alloy were investigated. It was found that the intermetallic particles decreased in size with increasing imposed strains.
Optimization of dimethyl ether production process synthesis using superstructure analysis
Authors: Laiwatthanaphaisarn Teerapat , Anantpinijwatna Amata
Published: August 2018

Current world energy consumption is likely to increase over time. This is due to the growth of industry and transportation. The most important and most used energy sources are crude oil and natural gas. The consumption of energy is increasing continuously due to the economic expansion of the world fleet. At present, prices of primary energy sources such as oil and natural gas tend to increase. In addition, oil and gas are limited and likely to run out in the future. Currently, research and research on alternative energy is ongoing. To find the best alternative energy to replace in the future. Dimethyl ether is a substance that can be used as a substitute for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) because of its similar physical properties. Most of them are used as fuel in vehicles. In addition, dimethyl ether is easier to liquefy than liquefied petroleum gas, giving advantages in terms of storage and transport, and a higher cetane value that can be used in the vehicle. Dimethyl ether is a substance that will burn completely. Dimethyl ether production has a wide variety of options. If the best option is difficult to analyse because of the complexity of the solution. Superstructure analysis will help to find alternatives for the production of dimethyl ether. Superstructure will identify the most economical alternative. The mathematical model is applied to the existing production process and new alternatives. In this work, the alternatives to produce dimethyl ether are displayed and the optimum alternative are chosen.
Influence of jet discharge velocity profile on CFD simulation of pump-around jet mixing tank
Authors: Jorakit Thanwa , Phaiboonsilpa Natthanon , Namkanisorn Apinan , Ponpo Phisan , Bumrungthaichaichan Eakarach , Wattananusorn Santi
Published: August 2018

The present paper shows the effect of jet discharge velocity profile (or jet nozzle configuration) on CFD simulation of an open 45° inclined side entry pump-around jet mixing tank. The CFD model was carefully developed by using appropriate grid arrangement, boundary conditions, and numerical methods. The two different jet discharge velocity profiles, including top hat and fully developed profiles, were simulated by using the inlet mass flow rate of about 0.22 kg·s-1. The overall mixing times and normalized concentration profiles predicted by two different jet discharge velocity profiles were compared with the previous reliable experimental data. The results revealed that the different jet discharge velocity profiles resulted in different jet flow and mixing patterns inside the vessels.
Gross calorific value estimation for milled maize cob biomass using near infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Posom Jetsada , Nakawajana Natrapee
Published: August 2018

The maize cob biomass is one of important biomass crops in Thailand. Nowadays, the use of the biomass as renewable resource is increasing, especially residue agriculture waste. As we know that the biomass properties impact combustion, in order to achieve boiler efficiency, its energy characteristics of biomass was required immediately before burning. This work uses the FT-near infrared spectroscopy to estimate gross calorific value (GCV) of maize cob as the rapid method. Each sample was scanned using diffuse reflectance mode at a wavenumber range between 12500-3600 cm-1. The scanning was done with a resolution of 8 cm-1 and completed 32 scans per sample, then averaged to be one spectrum. The results showed that this technique could decrease a processing time to 1-2 minutes per sample to determine GCV whereas alternatively the current method used a processing time of 25-30 minutes per sample. The capacity of the model gave root mean square error of cross validation (RMSECV) of 91.1 Jg-1, which was low. Hence, the model was acceptable and cloud be used for screening.
Effect of postmortem storage on shear force value and calpain/calpastatin activity in longissimus dorsi muscle of rusa deer (cervus timorensis)
Authors: Jantasaeng Orapin , Jirajaroenrat Kanya , Tuntivisoottikul Kunya
Published: August 2018

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of aging period on shear force values and activities of calpain/calpastatin enzymes of the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle from rusa deer (Cervus timorensis). The shear force values were measured with instron materials testing machine. Results showed that postmortem storage influenced meat tenderness with a highly significant reduction of shear force value from 9.01±0.83 kg/cm2 at day 1 to 4.34±0.10 kg/cm2 at day 21 (P<0.01). Determination of the enzyme activities indicated that the μ-calpain activity decreased significantly from 1.50±0.42 to 0.19±0.28 units/g of meat (P<0.01), whereas m-calpain activity (22.88±9.64 to 16.95±8.34 units/g of meat) and calpastatin activity (9.93±2.37 to 6.82±2.96 units/g of meat) slightly decreased (P>0.05). Shear force values were significant correlated with higher levels of μ-calpain (r=0.915) and m-calpain (r=0.758), respectively. However, the values were not significant related to the calpastatin activity (r=0.462). Therefore, this study confirmed that in the case of rusa deer, μ-calpain is a key factor controlling postmortem meat tenderness compared to m-calpain and calpastatin. The results suggested that storage of the rusa deer meat for 7 days is enough to achieve aging of the LD muscle, which may help to reduce the cost of meat production.
Effect of hot air assisted infrared drying on drying characteristics and quality of rice bran pellets
Authors: Sansak Sahachart , Jongyingcharoen Jiraporn Sripinyowanich
Published: August 2018

The objective of this study was to determine drying characteristics and quality of rice bran pellet subjected to hot air assisted infrared (HA-IR) drying at different levels of infrared (IR) intensity (750 – 3750 W/m2) and air temperature (40 – 80°C). The rice bran pellets were dried from 0.18 to 0.08 g water/g dry matter. The maximum drying rate (DR) and drying time were in the ranges of 0.0030 – 0.0165 g water/g dry matter·min and 8 – 54 min, respectively. Higher IR intensity and air temperature resulted in greater maximum DR and shorter drying time. The same trend was also observed for the effective moisture diffusivity (Deff) values which were between 0.3103×10-7 and 2.7603×10-7 m2/s. As compared to the commercial reference sample of dried rice bran pellets, the products of this study had higher oil content and lower FFA content. The oil content was affected by IR intensity only while the FFA content was affected both by IR intensity and air temperature. HA-IR drying could improve drying characteristics of the rice bran pellets and produce better quality of the dried products.
Drying characteristics and quality evaluation in convective drying of Cissus quadrangularis Linn.
Authors: Thanimkarn Setthawat , Cheevitsopon Ekkapong , Sripinyowanich Jongyingcharoen Jiraporn
Published: August 2018

This study aimed to investigate the effect of drying temperature (40, 60, 80, and 100°C) on drying characteristics of Cissus quadrangularis Linn. (CQ) undergoing convective drying. Physical properties and phytochemicals of the dried CQ were also evaluated. CQ with the thickness of 5 mm was dried from about 10 to 0.1 g water/g dry matter. The results showed that increasing drying temperature increased drying rate (DR) and effective moisture diffusivity (Deff) and consequently decreased drying time. The drying time, maximum DR, and Deff were in the ranges of 85-1920 min, 0.0059-0.0248 g water/g dry matter·min, and 0.7302-9.1281×10-9 m2/s, respectively. Lower drying temperature could preserve quality of the dried CQ. Decreasing drying temperature resulted in greener and lower bulk density and shrinkage. The greatest total phenolic content (TPC) and quercetin content were obtained by drying the CQ at 60°C.
The fatty acid profiles in M. longissimus dorsi and M. semimembranosus of short-haired and long-haired crossbred sheep meat
Authors: Patthararangsarith Pattraphorn , Tuntivisoottikul Kunya
Published: August 2018

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of crossbred groups and anatomical muscle positions on the chemical composition and fatty acid profiles in the loin (M. longissimus dorsi) and chump (M. semimembranosus) muscles of the short-haired and long-haired crossbred sheep. Five sheep per group with the 25 kg initial body weight were fed with 2 kg/d TMR and free choice grass (Brachiaria mutica), and those were raised 84 days. After slaughter, loin and chump were used to examine the chemical composition and fatty acid profiles. The results showed that the loin from the short-haired and long-haired crossbreds had Palmitic acid at the highest level among the other saturated fatty acid (SFA), whereas this fatty acid was not detected in the chump. However, the highest SFA in the chump of both crossbreds was the Stearic acid. Furthermore, the fatty acids in both groups were detected in the chump more than in the loin. There was found that the nutritional values were not affected by sheep crossbred groups (P>0.05). The loin and chump had affected the percentage of crude protein (P<0.01), the amount of Lauric Acid (C12:0), and the total fatty acids (P<0.01). Interaction factor between the crossbred groups and the anatomical muscle positions was unaffected all the traits studied (P>0.05).
Die palliative Sedierung
Authors: Prönneke Rainer
Published: August 2018

Eine gewerbemäßige, d. h. auf Wiederholung angelegte Suizidbeihilfe wurde per Gesetz unter Strafe gestellt, danach gehört die Suizidbeihilfe explizit nicht zur
ärztlichen Aufgabe. Öffentlich kaum bekannt, ist die sogenannte palliative Sedierung gegen unerträgliches Leid als palliativmedizinische Behandlungsmethode
eingeführt worden. Es beinhaltet ein Behandlungskonzept, welches bei fortgeschrittenen und fortschreitend Erkrankten zur Linderung unerträglichen Leids eine
gezielte medikamentöse Bewusstseinsminderung bis zum Eintritt des Todes vorsieht. Die palliative Sedierung ist optionaler Bestandteil einer
Palliativgesamtbehandlung und unterliegt damit dem palliativ-ethischen Grundgedanken, das Leben nicht gezielt verkürzen und die Sterbezeit nicht verlängern zu
wollen. Basis der palliativen Sedierung bleibt neben der fachlichen Kompetenz und professionellen Reflektion der Behandler die menschliche Zuwendung und
hospizliche Begleitung des Betroffenen und seiner häufig seelisch sehr bewegten Bezugspersonen.