bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polylogarithmic equilibrium treatment of molecular aggregation and critical concentrations
Authors: Michel Denis , Ruelle Philippe
Published: January 2017

A new modeling approach to molecular aggregation is proposed under the condition of generalized microreversibility.
Synthesis and optical and electrochemical properties of julolidine-structured pyrido[3,4-b]indole dye
Authors: Enoki Toshiaki , Matsuo Keishi , Ohshita Joji , Ooyama Yousuke
Published: January 2017

The julolidine-structured pyrido[3,4-b]indole dye ET-1 possesses the ability to act as a calorimetric and fluorescent sensor for Brønsted and Lewis acids.
Effect of Zn substitution on the magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of Cd1−xZnxCr2Se4 spinel
Authors: Bouhbou M. , Moubah R. , Belayachi W. , Belayachi A. , Lassri H.
Published: January 2017

The influence of Zn substitution on the magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of Cd1−xZnxCr2Se4 (0.35 ≤ x ≤ 0.45) spinel was investigated.
Yogurt inhibits intestinal barrier dysfunction in Caco-2 cells by increasing tight junctions
Authors: Putt Kelley K. , Pei Ruisong , White Heather M. , Bolling Bradley W.
Published: January 2017

Yogurt improves inflammation-disrupted intestinal barrier function in differentiated Caco-2 cells.
Enzyme responsive nucleotide functionalized silver nanoparticles with effective antimicrobial and anticancer activity
Authors: Datta Lakshmi Priya , Chatterjee Ananya , Acharya Krishnendu , De Priyadarsi , Das Mahuya
Published: January 2017

Enzyme responsive, water soluble, stable nucleotide coated silver nanoparticles have been synthesized with efficient antimicrobial and anticancer activity.
Accordion-shaped10B nanostructures by sonication-assisted direct oxidation pathway for neutron sensors
Authors: Tillard Monique , M'Rabet Fatima , Rottner Bernard , Charnay Clarence
Published: January 2017

Boron nanomaterials prepared by direct oxidation of a LixB alloy display unusual morphology and good efficiency in neutron detection.
BSA-coated fluorescent organic–inorganic hybrid silica nanoparticles: preparation and drug delivery
Authors: Yang Zengming , Ma Hengchang , Jin Zijie , Cao Haiying , Lei Lei , Ma Yucheng , Lei Ziqiang
Published: January 2017

A novel BSA-coated inorganic–organic hybrid nano-material with drug delivery ability under stimulation by temperature changes is reported.
Expeditious assembly of fused dihydropyranones via N-heterocyclic carbene-catalyzed tandem Michael addition/lactonization
Authors: Ren Qiao , Li Muyao , Yuan Lujiang
Published: January 2017

A convergent and efficient NHC-catalyzed enantioselective tandem Michael addition/lactonization sequence of ynals with 1,2-dione is disclosed. This strategy expeditiously assembles the valuable optically active fused dihydropyranones in good to high yields and with excellent enantioselectivities.
Phase sequence in diisopropylammonium iodide: avoided ferroelectricity by the appearance of a reconstructed phase
Authors: Piecha-Bisiorek A. , Gągor A. , Isakov D. , Zieliński P. , Gałązka M. , Jakubas R.
Published: January 2017

Crystals of diisopropylammonium iodide are synthesized, grown and characterized.
Self-assembled nanostructures of a di-carbonitrile molecule on copper single-crystal surfaces
Authors: Ma Honghong , Bao Meiling , Cai Liangliang , Sun Qiang , Yuan Chunxue
Published: January 2017

A di-carbonitrile molecule prefers to form nanostructures by hydrogen bonds rather than coordination bonds on Cu(110) and Cu(100) at RT.
Highly efficient perovskite solar cells with crosslinked PCBM interlayers
Authors: Qiu W. , Bastos J. P. , Dasgupta S. , Merckx T. , Cardinaletti I. , Jenart M. V. C. , Nielsen C. B. , Gehlhaar R. , Poortmans J. , Heremans P. , McCulloch I. , Cheyns D.
Published: January 2017

PCBM crosslinked with 1,6-diazidohexane (DAZH) was introduced to solve the solvent incompatibility of depositing a solution processed perovskite layer onto it.
Micro-solid state energy conversion membranes: influence of doping and strain on oxygen ion transport and near order for electrolytes
Authors: Shi Yanuo , Garbayo Iñigo , Muralt Paul , Marguerite Rupp Jennifer Lilia
Published: January 2017

Electro-chemo-mechanics interactions in oxygen ion conductors are probed for variations of strain and extrinsic doping concentrations in free-standing micro-energy conversion membranes based on ceria solid solutions.
Na3+xMxP1−xS4(M = Ge4+, Ti4+, Sn4+) enables high rate all-solid-state Na-ion batteries Na2+2δFe2−δ(SO4)3|Na3+xMxP1−xS4|Na2Ti3O7
Authors: Rao Rayavarapu Prasada , Chen Haomin , Wong Lee Loong , Adams Stefan
Published: January 2017

Fast ion conducting Na3.1P0.9Sn0.1S4is combined with alluaudite and Na2Ti3O7to achieve a low-cost high power all-solid state Na-ion battery.
The co-electrolysis of CO2–H2O to methane via a novel micro-tubular electrochemical reactor
Authors: Lei Libin , Liu Tong , Fang Shumin , Lemmon John P. , Chen Fanglin
Published: January 2017

Efficient and direct conversion of CO2 to hydrocarbons through electrolysis is a promising approach for energy storage and CO2 utilization.
Solar-driven Z-scheme water splitting using tantalum/nitrogen co-doped rutile titania nanorod as an oxygen evolution photocatalyst
Authors: Nakada Akinobu , Nishioka Shunta , Vequizo Junie Jhon M. , Muraoka Kanemichi , Kanazawa Tomoki , Yamakata Akira , Nozawa Shunsuke , Kumagai Hiromu , Adachi Shin-ichi , Ishitani Osamu , Maeda Kazuhiko
Published: January 2017

Tantalum and nitrogen co-doped rutile TiO2 nanorods were developed as a visible-light-active water oxidation photocatalyst for solar-driven Z-scheme water splitting.
Side-chain amino acid based cationic polymer induced actin polymerization
Authors: Maiti Binoy , Dutta Priyanka , Seal Soma , Pal Sunirmal , De Priyadarsi , Maiti Sankar
Published: January 2017

A side-chain amino acid (alanine) based cationic polymer is able to nucleate, polymerize and stabilize actin filamentsin vitroandin vivo.
A novel Eu2+ activated G-La2Si2O7 phosphor for white LEDs: SiC-reduction synthesis, tunable luminescence and good thermal stability
Authors: Wan Jieqiong , Liu Qian , Liu Guanghui , Zhou Zhenzhen , Ni Jia , Xie Rong-Jun
Published: January 2017

A new La2Si2O7:Eu2+ phosphor with Eu2+ doping concentration induced blue-orange emission regulation was synthesized via a novel SiC-reduction route.
An Au NP doped buffer layer in a slab waveguide for enhancement of organic amplified spontaneous emission
Authors: Zhou Xuehong , Liu Linlin , Wu Xiaoyan , Yang Yuzhao , Jiang Xiao-Fang , Chen Xudong , Xu Qing-Hua , Xie Zengqi , Ma Yuguang
Published: January 2017

A gold nanoparticle (Au NP) doped buffer layer is inverted in a slab waveguide to present amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) enhancement.
Highly efficient, deep-red organic light-emitting devices using energy transfer from exciplexes
Authors: Nagai Yuji , Sasabe Hisahiro , Takahashi Jun , Onuma Natsuki , Ito Takashi , Ohisa Satoru , Kido Junji
Published: January 2017

Record-breaking highly efficient, deep-red phosphorescent OLEDs are developed. The optimized device exhibits an external quantum efficiency of nearly 18% and an electroluminescence emission wavelength of 670 nm.
Dielectric enhancement with low dielectric loss in textured ZnO films inserted with NiFe
Authors: Chi Po-Wei , Wei Da-Hua
Published: January 2017

A magnetic field dependence can be clearly observed in the dielectric constant of ZnO/NiFe/ZnO heterostructures (typically non-ferroelectric system) at room temperature controlled by a low external magnetic field.
A sustainable freestanding biomechanical energy harvesting smart backpack as a portable-wearable power source
Authors: Chandrasekhar Arunkumar , Alluri Nagamalleswara Rao , Vivekananthan Venkateswaran , Purusothaman Yuvasree , Kim Sang-Jae
Published: January 2017

Wearable gadgets have attracted consumer attention, resulting in an abundance of research on the development of self-powered devices.
A case of successful fetal therapy for congenital chylothorax by intrapleural injection of OK‐432
Authors: Tanemura M. , Nishikawa N. , Kojima K. , Suzuki Y. , Suzumori K.
Published: January 2017

A 38‐year‐old multiparous woman was referred at 19 weeks' gestation because of hydrops fetalis. Ultrasonic examination revealed severe pleural effusion, ascites and skin edema. Detailed examination of the amniotic fluid, fetal blood and intrathoracic fluid led to a diagnosis of congenital fetal chylothorax. Repeated thoracocenteses were not effective in improving the hydrops fetalis. We introduced fetal treatment for the pleural effusion by an intrapleural injection of OK‐432 at 23, 24 and 25 weeks' gestation. The pleural effusion was reduced by adhesion of the intrathoracic space and resulted in the delivery of a neonate who was healthy except for right renal dysfunction. Pulmonary hypoplasia was successfully prevented by OK‐432. Copyright © 2001 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Photonic crystal properties of self-assembled Archimedean tilings
Authors: Stelson Angela C. , Britton Wesley A. , Liddell Watson Chekesha M.
Published: January 2017

Inspired by self-assembly of binary colloidal mixtures, we simulate the photonic properties of Archimedean tilings composed of triangular and square cross-section rods. Large isotropic photonic bandgaps up to 29.6% (TE) and 29.3% (TM) are found for the 32·4·3·4 Archimedean tiling due to its high rotational symmetry. For each particle geometry, the relative dielectric contrasts were varied independently over the range ε = 2 to 16, consistent with the assembly of binary materials. Mode field distributions indicate that the bandgaps originate from Lorenz-Mie scattering for high dielectric particles in an air matrix (i.e., direct structures). For the inverted structures, bandgaps arise due to the redistribution of the mode field into air pores or into complementary regions of the high dielectric material. Equifrequency contour analysis and finite difference time domain simulations are performed for direct structures with high ε square rods and low ε triangular rods and vice versa. Negative refraction occurs at nearly all angles of incidence for a relative frequency of 0.27, and sub-wavelength imaging is demonstrated for the photonic crystal flatlens with a half-wave distance of 0.45λ. Self-collimation is observed for incident angles in the range (−45°, 45°). Additionally, a waveguide with the 32·4·3·4 structure displays slow light-based signal enhancement.
Stochastic thermodynamics of a chemical nanomachine: The channeling enzyme tryptophan synthase
Authors: Loutchko Dimitri , Eisbach Maximilian , Mikhailov Alexander S.
Published: January 2017

The enzyme tryptophan synthase is characterized by a complex pattern of allosteric interactions that regulate the catalytic activity of its two subunits and opening or closing of their ligand gates. As a single macromolecule, it implements 13 different reaction steps, with an intermediate product directly channeled from one subunit to another. Based on experimental data, a stochastic model for the operation of tryptophan synthase has been earlier constructed [D. Loutchko, D. Gonze, and A. S. Mikhailov, J. Phys. Chem. B 120, 2179 (2016)]. Here, this model is used to consider stochastic thermodynamics of such a chemical nanomachine. The Gibbs energy landscape of the internal molecular states is determined, the production of entropy and its flow within the enzyme are analyzed, and the information exchange between the subunits resulting from allosteric cross-regulations and channeling is discussed.
Forces on nuclei moving on autoionizing molecular potential energy surfaces
Authors: Moiseyev Nimrod
Published: January 2017

Autoionization of molecular systems occurs in diatomic molecules and in small biochemical systems. Quantum chemistry packages enable calculation of complex potential energy surfaces (CPESs). The imaginary part of the CPES is associated with the autoionization decay rate, which is a function of the molecular structure. Molecular dynamics simulations, within the framework of the Born–Oppenheimer approximation, require the definition of a force field. The ability to calculate the forces on the nuclei in bio-systems when autoionization takes place seems to rely on an understanding of radiative damages in RNA and DNA arising from the release of slow moving electrons which have long de Broglie wavelengths. This work addresses calculation of the real forces on the nuclei moving on the CPES. By using the transformation of the time-dependent Schrödinger equation, previously used by Madelung, we proved that the classical forces on nuclei moving on the CPES correlated with the gradient of the real part of the CPES. It was proved that the force on the nuclei of the metastable molecules is time independent although the probability to detect metastable molecules exponentially decays. The classical force is obtained from the transformed Schrödinger equation when ℏ=0 and the Schrödinger equation is reduced to the classical (Newtonian) equations of motion. The forces on the nuclei regardless on what potential energy surface they move (parent CPES or product real PESs) vary in time due to the autoionization process.
Characteristics of floating potential of a probe in electronegative plasma
Authors: Pandey A. K. , Karkari S. K.
Published: January 2017

The floating potential of a cylindrical probe immersed in electronegative oxygen plasma has been experimentally investigated as a function of electronegative parameters, α=n−/ne and γ=Te/T−. In the experiment, the bulk plasma has been found to be largely Maxwellian amid a small component of hot electrons present in the discharge. The parameter α has been deduced from a phenomenological model for a range of operating powers and pressures. By optimizing γ in the phenomenological model, the negative ion temperature range has been estimated by comparing the measured floating potential with the theoretical curve. In the regime α>1, the floating potential has been observed to fall monotonically on increasing α in close agreement with the theoretical curve, whereas, the theoretical results predict an increasing trend for α<1. A qualitative discussion has been presented to explain the overall behavior of floating potential under the influence of negative ions.
Time evolution analysis of dynamics processes in laser-produced Al plasmas based on a collisional radiative model
Authors: Su M. G. , Wang B. , Min Q. , Cao S. Q. , Sun D. X. , Dong C. Z.
Published: January 2017

The temporal evolution of extreme ultraviolet emission from a laser-produced aluminum plasma has been experimentally and theoretically investigated. Spectra of highly charged Al ions have been measured by using the temporal-spatially resolved laser-produced plasma emission technique. In order to deeply understand the evolution of plasmas and achieve the purpose of rapid diagnosis, a collisional-radiative model has been resolved in the steady-state and time-dependent cases, respectively. The evolution of rate coefficients as a function of the electron temperature, electron density, and time delay has been discussed, respectively. In addition, the influence of the photo-ionization process has also been evaluated for the ionization balance. The results indicate that the time evolution analysis of spectra is useful for the accurate understanding of the evolution behavior of highly charged ions in laser-produced plasmas.
A new non-contact approach for the measurement and uniformity evaluation of coating thickness for sheet metal
Authors: Qiu Zixue , Zheng Tianchi , Wan Liping , Lu Guan , Shao Jianxin , Yuan Jiang
Published: January 2017

To realize the automatic measurement and uniformity evaluation of the coating thickness for sheet metal, a new non-contact detection method for coating thickness was proposed based on a double laser probe and mechanical servo system. Non-contact measurement of coating thickness can be achieved by differential measurement principle of double laser probe, and the influences of sheet metal’s Z position changes and platform’s vibration on the measurement results can be removed by this method. A new coating thickness evaluation algorithm by integrating the least squares principle and cubic spline interpolation was given, which can fit the discrete thickness data into visual and accurate 3D graphics; and the measurement accuracy was evaluated based on grey theory, solving the problem of low accuracy by using limited measurement data to evaluate the thickness uniformity of an entire sheet metal. The stability and reliability of the system are verified by experiments, and the measurement results of the specimen show that the measurement uncertainty is 0.016 μm and the maximum range of the uniformity evaluation result is 1.4 μm.
Investigation of thermal transport in polymer composites with percolating networks of silver thin films by the flash diffusivity method
Authors: Pettersen Sigurd R. , Nagao Shijo , Kristiansen Helge , Helland Susanne , Njagi John , Suganuma Katsuaki , Zhang Zhiliang , He Jianying
Published: January 2017

The flash diffusivity method, also known as laser flash analysis (LFA), is commonly used to obtain the thermal diffusivity (α) and thermal conductivity (κ) of materials, due to its relative simplicity, rapid measurements, small sample size requirement, and standardized commercially available instruments. In this work, an epoxy adhesive was filled with a large fraction of homogeneous micron-sized polymethylmethacrylate spheres coated with thin silver films, such that a percolating metallic network that dominated the electric and thermal transport formed through the polymer at <3 vol. % silver. Specific heat capacity (Cp) was measured from the LFA measurements by a comparative method and from the total and reversible heat flow signals of modulated differential scanning calorimetry (MDSC). κ was estimated as the product of α, Cp, and density (ρ) and was found to vary significantly with the method to find Cp. The electron contribution was found from the electrical conductivity by the Wiedemann–Franz law and was used to elucidate the thermal transport mechanisms in the composite. A theoretical background for the various methods is included.
Electric field control of magnetic properties of Nd2Fe14B thin films grown onto PMN-PT substrates
Authors: Liu Yao , Hu Feng-xia , Zhang Ming , Wang Jing , Shen Fei-ran , Zuo Wen-liang , Zhang Jian , Sun Ji-rong , Shen Bao-gen
Published: January 2017

Nd2Fe14B films with easy magnetization axis perpendicular to the film plane were grown onto Ta-buffered piezoelectric (011)-0.7Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-0.3PbTiO3 (PMN-PT) substrates using a magnetron sputtering technique. The film retains good permanent magnetic properties, with coercivities up to 1.4 T and spin reorientation near 150 K. Our investigations demonstrated that the converse piezoelectric effect generated by an electric field across the PMN-PT substrate can rotate the angle of spin reorientation of the Nd2Fe14B films, resulting in a considerable manipulation of magnetization by the electric field at temperatures below 150 K. The ratio of magnetization change reaches 30% in a magnetic field of 2 T when an electric field of 6 kV/cm is applied at 30 K. With increasing temperature, the electric field-induced tunability of magnetization decreases. These observations of permanent magnetic properties and electrically controlled magnetization effects make the Nd2Fe14B/PMN-PT heterostructure attractive for exploring multifunctional magnetic/electric devices.
Hybrid membrane resonators for multiple frequency asymmetric absorption and reflection in large waveguide
Authors: Fu Caixing , Zhang Xiaonan , Yang Min , Xiao Songwen , Yang Z.
Published: January 2017

We report that Hybrid membrane resonators (HMRs) made of a decorated membrane resonator backed by a shallow cavity can function as Helmholtz resonators (HRs) when mounted on the sidewall of a clear waveguide for air ventilation. When two single-frequency HMRs are used in the same scheme as two frequency-detuned HRs, asymmetric total absorption/reflection is demonstrated at 286.7 Hz with absorption coefficient over 97% in a waveguide 9 cm × 9 cm in cross section. When two multiple-frequency HMRs are used, absorption in the range of near 60% to above 80% is observed at 403 Hz, 450 Hz, 688 Hz, 863 Hz, and 945 Hz. Theoretical predictions agree well with the experimental data. The HMRs may replace HRs in duct noise reduction applications, in that at a single operation frequency they have stronger strength to cover a much larger cross section area than that of HRs with similar cavity volume, and they can be designed to provide multiple frequency absorption band.
Development of controlled solid-state alignment for alnico permanent magnets in near-final shape
Authors: Anderson Iver E. , Kassen Aaron G. , White Emma M. H. , Palasyuk Andriy , Zhou Lin , Tang Wei , Kramer Matthew J.
Published: January 2017

The 2011 price shock in the rare earth (RE) permanent magnet (PM) marketplace precipitated realization of extremely poor RE supply diversity and drove renewed research in RE-free permanent magnets such as “alnico.” Essentially, alnico is an Al-Ni-Co-Fe alloy with high magnetic saturation and TC, but low coercivity. It also was last researched extensively in the 1970’s. Currently alnico “9” magnets with the highest energy product (10MGOe) are manufactured by directional solidification to make highly aligned anisotropic magnets. This work developed novel powder processing techniques to improve on unaligned anisotropic alnico “8H” with elevated coercivity. Gas atomization was used to produce pre-alloyed powder for binder-assisted compression molding of near-final shape magnets that were vacuum sintered to full density (<1% porosity). Biased grain growth with resulting grain alignment was achieved during a second solution annealing step, during which a uni-axial stress was applied along the axis parallel to the magnetization direction. Evaluation of heavily stressed samples (>250g) showed reduced overall loop squareness compared to unaligned (equiaxed) 8H due to grain rotation-induced misalignment, while low stresses improved squareness and greatly improved alignment compared to equiaxed magnets, with squareness approaching 0.30 and remanence ratio as high as 0.79.
Effect of magnetic dipolar interactions on temperature dependent magnetic hyperthermia in ferrofluids
Authors: Palihawadana-Arachchige Maheshika , Nemala Humeshkar , Naik Vaman M. , Naik Ratna
Published: January 2017

Magnetic hyperthermia (MHT), where localized heating is generated when magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are subjected to a radiofrequency magnetic field, has a great potential as a non-invasive cancer therapy treatment. The efficiency of heat generation depends on the magnetic properties of MNPs, such as saturation magnetization (Ms) and magnetic anisotropy (K), as well as the particle size distribution and magnetic dipolar interactions. We have investigated MHT in two Fe3O4 ferrofluids prepared by co-precipitation (CP) and hydrothermal (HT) synthesis methods showing similar physical particle size distribution (14 ± 4 nm) and saturation magnetization (70 ± 2 emu/g of Fe3O4) but very different specific absorption rates (SAR) of ∼110 W/g and ∼40 W/g at room temperature (measured with an ac magnetic field amplitude of 240 Oe and a frequency of 375 kHz). This observed reduction in SAR has been explained by taking into account the dipolar interactions and the distribution of the magnetic core size of MNPs in ferrofluids. The HT ferrofluid shows a higher effective dipolar interaction and a wider distribution of the magnetic core size of MNPs compared to those of the CP ferrofluid. We have fitted the temperature dependent SAR data using the linear response theory, incorporating an effective dipolar interaction, to determine the magnetic anisotropy constant of MNPs prepared by CP (22 ± 2 kJ/m3) and HT (26 ± 2 kJ/m3) synthesis methods. These values are in good agreement with the magnetic anisotropy constant determined using frequency and temperature dependent magnetic susceptibility data obtained on powder samples.
Fast determination of three-dimensional fibril orientation of type-I collagen via macroscopic chirality
Authors: Zhuo Guan-Yu , Chen Mei-Yu , Yeh Chao-Yuan , Guo Chin-Lin , Kao Fu-Jen
Published: January 2017

Polarization-resolved second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy is appealing for studying structural proteins and well-organized biophotonic nanostructures, due to its highly sensitized structural specificity. In recent years, it has been used to investigate the chiroptical effect, particularly SHG circular dichroism (SHG-CD) in biological tissues. Although SHG-CD attributed to macromolecular structures has been demonstrated, the corresponding quantitative analysis and interpretation on how SHG correlates with second-order susceptibility χ(2) under circularly polarized excitations remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrate a method based on macroscopic chirality to elucidate the correlation between SHG-CD and the orientation angle of the molecular structure. By exploiting this approach, three-dimensional (3D) molecular orientation of type-I collagen is revealed with only two cross polarized SHG images (i.e., interactions of left and right circular polarizations) without acquiring an image stack of varying polarization.
Optimizing the active region of interband cascade lasers for passive mode-locking
Authors: Ryczko K. , Misiewicz J. , Höfling S. , Kamp M. , Sek G.
Published: January 2017

The work proposes possible designs of active regions for a mode-locked interband cascade laser emitting in the mid infrared. For that purpose we investigated the electronic structure properties of respectively modified GaSb-based type II W-shaped quantum wells, including the effect of external bias in order to simultaneously fulfil the requirements for both the absorber as well as the gain sections of a device. The results show that introducing multiple InAs layers in type II InAs/GaInSb quantum wells or introducing a tensely-strained GaAsSb layer into “W-shaped” type II QWs offers significant difference in optical transitions’ oscillator strengths (characteristic lifetimes) of the two oppositely polarized parts of such a laser, being promising for utilization in mode-locked devices.
A high power factor fault-tolerant vernier permanent-magnet machine
Authors: Zhu Xuhui , Zhao Wenxiang , Zhu Jian , Bian Fangfang
Published: January 2017

Vernier permanent-magnet (VPM) machine offers the advantage of high torque density. However, the existing VPM machines usually suffer from relatively low power factor. To solve the problem, this paper proposes a new high power factor fault-tolerant VPM machine. Compared with the existing one, the proposed VPM machine has higher power factor and higher torque density. Also, the fault-tolerant capability is provided. The electromagnetic characteristics of the proposed machine are analyzed by using the finite element method.
Aluminium to steel resistance spot welding with cold sprayed interlayer
Authors: Winnicki Marcin , Małachowska Aleksandra , Korzeniowski Marcin , Jasiorski Marek , Baszczuk Agnieszka
Published: January 2017

Studies on bonding of aluminium alloys to steels are popular because these are structural materials widely used in a variety of industries. However, joining these dissimilar materials is difficult mainly because of the formation of brittle intermetallic compounds. This paper presents a study on welding aluminium to steel by resistance spot welding. Before the welding, steel surface was covered by cold spraying with the layer of aluminium, nickel and nickel–aluminium. This way, instead of the welding of dissimilar materials, the welding of aluminium to aluminium (or nickel) layer pre-deposited on the steel sample was performed. The feasibility of using interlayers for improving the welding of dissimilar materials was tested using SEM, EDX and XRD. Mechanical properties of welds were investigated by microhardness and shear strength tests. The results showed that the coating allowed to decrease hardness in the welding zone and to increase the shear strength of the weld.
A Hidden-Process Model for Estimating Prespawn Mortality Using Carcass Survey Data
Authors: DeWeber J. Tyrell , Peterson James T. , Sharpe Cameron , Kent Michael L. , Colvin Michael E. , Schreck Carl B.
Published: January 2017

After returning to spawning areas, adult Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp. often die without spawning successfully, which is commonly referred to as prespawn mortality. Prespawn mortality reduces reproductive success and can thereby hamper conservation, restoration, and reintroduction efforts. The primary source of information used to estimate prespawn mortality is collected through carcass surveys, but estimation can be difficult with these data due to imperfect detection and carcasses with unknown spawning status. To facilitate unbiased estimation of prespawn mortality and associated uncertainty, we developed a hidden-process mark–recovery model to estimate prespawn mortality rates from carcass survey data while accounting for imperfect detection and unknown spawning success. We then used the model to estimate prespawn mortality and identify potential associated factors for 3,352 adult spring Chinook Salmon O. tshawytscha that were transported above Foster Dam on the South Santiam River (Willamette River basin, Oregon) from 2009 to 2013. Estimated prespawn mortality was relatively low (≤13%) in most years (interannual mean = 28%) but was especially high (74%) in 2013. Variation in prespawn mortality estimates among outplanted groups of fish within each year was also very high, and some of this variation was explained by a trend toward lower prespawn mortality among fish that were outplanted later in the year. Numerous efforts are being made to monitor and, when possible, minimize prespawn mortality in salmon populations; this model can be used to provide unbiased estimates of spawning success that account for unknown fate and imperfect detection, which are common to carcass survey data.

Received April 11, 2016; accepted October 2, 2016Published online January 9, 2017
Evaluation of Bayesian Networks for Predicting Spawning Habitat Quality of Chinook Salmon in Data-Poor Watersheds
Authors: Brumbaugh Steven M. , Coleman Ronald
Published: January 2017

California's native salmonid populations are in decline, as evidenced by the 2008 fishing closures on one historically abundant species, Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha. One major impact on spring-run Chinook Salmon within the Central Valley has been the modification of natal rivers. Bayesian networks are one modeling method that could help researchers to understand these systems and direct restoration efforts. We constructed a Bayesian network for Deer Creek, in Tehama County, to assess its utility as a tool for guiding restoration of spawning habitats for spring-run Chinook Salmon. We applied this network on a riffle–pool subreach scale to determine the suitability of each reach for spawning, indicated by the probability of redd presence. To evaluate the network we conducted sensitivity analyses and thereby determined the influence of each variable and the degree to which each variable informed the probability of redd presence. Sensitivity analyses were run for networks trained with two different stream alignments, one derived from the National Hydrography Dataset from the U.S. Geological Survey and one derived from tracing aerial imagery. We also conducted a Mann–Whitney test comparing redd densities from subreaches predicted to be good with those predicted to be poor for four fish passage condition scenarios. Of the four scenarios we modeled with the network, three exhibited significantly higher redd densities in subreaches designated as good by the network. Our results indicate that Bayesian networks can be used to predict habitat use and prioritize restoration in a data-poor northern California watershed.

Received November 30, 2015; accepted October 20, 2016Published online January 9, 2017
Detection of cracks in dried spaghetti using transmission images
Authors: Ogawa Takenobu , Adachi Shuji
Published: January 2017

Cracks are formed during the drying process of spaghetti production, which reduces its commercial value and quality; hence, it is very important to detect the cracks during the manufacturing process of dried spaghetti. However, the presence of mottles, originating from wheat bran, hinders automatic identification of cracks. In this study, we developed a simple method to detect the cracks induced in spaghetti using a digital camera. The cracks and mottles were distinguished by pixelating the transmission light image of the spaghetti and analyzing the image based on the geometric characteristics in the histogram consisting of all the pixels. The method was able to detect the cracks induced in the spaghetti with a rough surface, which was prepared via a bronze die using vacuum extrusion molding, as well as those induced in the spaghetti with a smooth surface, which was prepared using a Teflon die.
The effects of water absorption and roasting conditions on fracture properties and internal structure of sesame seeds
Authors: Katsuno Nakako , Fujimura Makoto , Hanya Akira , Nishizu Takahisa
Published: January 2017

We investigated the effects of soaking, residence time before roasting and roasting conditions on the fracture properties and structure of the cross-section of sesame seeds. Soaking time affected only the size of the side voids of the seed cross-section. The fracture force and strain of the roasted seeds decreased as residence time increased. The center void of the roasted seeds, important for seed crispness increased as residence time increased. In contrast, the side void of the roasted seeds only increased with residence time during the first 10 min. Seeds roasted at higher temperatures had smaller fracture forces and larger central voids than those roasted at lower temperatures. During roasting at 300 °C, the fracture force and strain decreased as the center void ratio increased. Overall, both a sufficient time for moisture diffusion in the seeds and a high roasting temperature were necessary to produce crisp roasted seeds.
Layered ternary
M
n+1AX
n
phases
and their 2D derivative MXene: an overview from a thin-film
perspective
Authors: Eklund Per , Rosen Johanna , Persson Per O Å
Published: January 2017

Inherently and artificially layered materials are commonly investigated both for
fundamental scientific purposes and for technological application. When a
layered material is thinned or delaminated to its physical limits, a
two-dimensional (2D) material is formed and exhibits novel properties compared
to its bulk parent phase. The complex layered phases known as ‘MAX
phases’ (where M  =  early transition metal,
A  =  A-group element, e.g. Al or Si, and
X  =  C or N) are an exciting model system for
materials design and the understanding of process-structure-property
relationships. When the A layers are selectively etched from the MAX phases, a
new type of 2D material is formed, named MXene to emphasize the relation to the
MAX phases and the parallel with graphene. Since their discovery in 2011, MXenes
have rapidly become established as a novel class of 2D materials with remarkable
possibilities for composition variations and property tuning. This article gives
a brief overview of MAX phases and MXene from a thin-film perspective, reviewing
theory, characterization by electron microscopy, properties and how these are
affected by the change in dimensionality, and outstanding challenges.
Host Specificity of Pecan Strains ofXylella fastidiosasubsp.multiplex
Authors: Sanderlin R. S.
Published: January 2017

Pecan (Carya illinoinensis) bacterial leaf scorch disease, caused by Xylella fastidiosa subsp. multiplex, causes defoliation and reduces terminal growth and nut yield. The pathogen is transmitted to pecan by xylem-feeding spittlebugs and leafhoppers and through graft transmission in the clonal propagation of cultivars. Xylella fastidiosa subsp. multiplex has a broad host range, infecting numerous hardwood tree species and some herbaceous species. There is evidence of additional host specialization within subsp. multiplex. Data presented here support the existence of host specialization with X. fastidiosa that infect pecan. In this study, mechanical inoculation was used to inoculate several plant species that are naturally infected by subsp. multiplex, including sycamore, red maple, purple-leafed plum, and blueberry with strains of X. fastidiosa from pecan. Hosts of three other subspecies were also inoculated with the pecan strains: grapevine (subsp. fastidiosa); oleander (subsp. sandyi); and mulberry (subsp. morus). Pecan was also inoculated with a strain of the pathogen from sycamore (subsp. multiplex) and a strain from grapevine (subsp. fastidiosa). In greenhouse tests, inoculum prepared from X. fastidiosa obtained from naturally infected pecan almost exclusively infected pecan. In addition, the subsp. multiplex strain from sycamore generally did not infect pecan, and the subsp. fastidiosa strain from grapevine did not infect pecan. The inability of the pecan strain to readily infect other hosts commonly located in the vicinity of pecan orchards affects the management recommendations for the disease in commercial pecan production by allowing management practices to focus on pecan orchards and insect vectors.
Prediction of residual flexural strength of corroded reinforced concrete beams
Authors: Ahmad Shamsad
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This study aims to make an effort to develop a model to predict the residual flexural strength of reinforced concrete beams subjected to reinforcement corrosion.

Design/methodology/approach

For generating the required data to develop the model, a set of experimental variables was considered that included corrosion current density, corrosion duration, rebar diameter and thickness of concrete cover. A total of 28 sets of reinforced concrete beams of size 150 × 150 × 1,100 mm were cast, of which 4 sets of un-corroded beams were tested in four-point bend test as control beams and the remaining 24 sets of beams were subjected to accelerated rebar corrosion inducing different levels of corrosion current densities for different durations. Corroded beams were also tested in flexure, and test results of un-corroded and corroded beams were utilized to obtain an empirical model for estimating the residual flexural strength of beams for given corrosion current density, corrosion duration and diameter of the rebars.

Findings

Comparison of the residual flexural strengths measured experimentally for a set of corroded beams, reported in literature, with that predicted using the model proposed in this study indicates that the proposed model has a reasonably good accuracy.

Originality/value

The empirical model obtained under this work can be used as a simple tool to predict residual flexural strength of corroded beams using the input data that include rebar corrosion rate, corrosion duration after initiation and diameter of rebars.
The formation process of Zr-doped silane film on carbon steel during immersing in Zr(NO3)4/silane mixed solutions
Authors: Xian Xiaochao , Nai Chenglong , Li Lixin , Zhao Shuo
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Immersion is one of the key steps during the preparation of silane-based hybrid films, which has important effects on the performance of films after curing. In this paper, the formation process of Zr-doped silane film (i.e. the adsorption of silane and deposition of zirconium compounds) on carbon steel immersed in Zr(NO3)4/silane mixed solutions was investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

The method of in situ monitoring the open circuit potential of a two-electrode system, consisting of carbon steel and saturated calomel electrode, was used. The effects of immersion conditions (i.e. the concentration of Zr(NO3)4 and pH of Zr(NO3)4/silane mixed solution) on the open circuit potential were investigated in detail. Furthermore, the surface coverage rate of different cured films (i.e. Zr cured film, silane cured film and Zr/silane composite cured film) after curing on carbon steel was calculated according to the results of polarization curves. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to study the self-healing property of Zr-doped silane cured film.

Findings

The results indicate that in Zr(NO3)4/silane mixed solutions, most zirconium compounds deposit on the surface of carbon steel at the initial immersing stage, then the adsorption of silane on the residual surface of carbon steel dominates the following immersing stage. EIS results show that the Zr-doped cured film has improved self-healing property.

Originality/value

First, the method of in situ monitoring the open-circuit potential of two-electrode system was applied to investigate the deposition of Zr and the adsorption of silane on carbon steel immersed in Zr(NO3)4/silane mixed solutions. Second, the formation process of Zr-doped silane film was proposed.
Building new farmer-entrepreneur training systems in poor relocation-settlements
Authors: Qiu Shubing , Zhou Xiaohong , Gong Bengang
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to study the conditions of the regional ecology, environment, resources and social harmony from the perspective of the new farmer-entrepreneur training process.

Design/methodology/approach

The study focuses on the poor conditions in relocation settlements currently developing in China.

Findings

The results show that the building of a new farmer-entrepreneur training system is a vital factor in the process of relocation development, where new farmer-entrepreneurs are characteristic of knowledge, innovation, openness and ambition.

Originality/value

For farmers participating in the program for the relocation of poor resettlements, a combination of these features is required for the process of building the new farmer-entrepreneur training-system to do well.
Strength in small: the University of Malta’s scientific output since accession
Authors: McMillan G. Steven , St-Louis Lalonde Bastien , Bezzina Frank H. , Casey Debra L.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The Triple Helix model of academia, government and industry posits that the university can play an important role, even an entrepreneurial one, in innovation in increasingly knowledge-based societies (Etzkowitz and Leydesdorff, 2000). No longer the “ivory tower” universities are now moving toward an entrepreneurial paradigm. The purpose of this research effort is to examine how such a migration has been accomplished in Malta with a particular focus on the changing activities of its University.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses advanced bibliometric techniques to examine the scientific output of the University of Malta. Data were downloaded from Thomson Reuters Web of Science. These data were then processed using the software packages Bibexcel and VOSviewer to produce detailed maps of the scientific activity.

Findings

The results were that the University has greatly expanded its scientific footprint since its 2004 accession to the European Union (EU). International collaborations and highly cited papers have gone up significantly.

Research limitations/implications

Only one country was examined in this effort, and further study should compare to Malta to other small EU countries. The findings suggest that while some might consider Malta’s progress modest in absolute terms, it has made significant strides from its prior-to-accession base.

Practical implications

The findings have been presented to the Malta Council for Science and Technology as evidence of the outcomes of their efforts.

Originality/value

Because Malta is the smallest member-state in the EU, little research has been done on its science base. However, the authors believe their findings could inform research efforts on other EU, and even non-EU, countries.
Innovation Evaluation: Past and Current Models and a Framework for Infrastructure Projects
Authors: Maghsoudi Soroush , Duffield Colin , Wilson David
Published: January 2017

Innovation is at the heart of today's competitive economy. The infrastructure industry of a nation plays a crucial role in its economic development and having understood innovation, and its impacts are very important in the current turbulent economic environment. Innovation and infrastructure are both referred to as two main factors to getting competitive internationally; therefore, having innovation evaluated has become one of the priorities for most governments and organizations. Innovation is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon and is very difficult to measure. The aim of this paper is to develop a framework to evaluate innovation and its benefits in infrastructure projects. For this purpose, a systematic review approach was adopted to review past and current models and frameworks in the literature related to the field of innovation and measurement. As the literature is very fragmented and lacks consensus on innovation measurement, it was intended to develop a comprehensive framework with a holistic attitude in mind in order to consider as many as possible interacting elements of the innovation process. The results showed that having a clear understanding of innovation requires evaluating not only inputs and intermediate outputs of the process, but also necessitates evaluation of what happens in the process of innovation, as well as longer term benefits. The proposed framework is developed in the context of infrastructure projects, and it consolidated necessary measuring aspects of innovation, especially the risk of impacts in the process. This area of research is new and relatively unstudied in the context of infrastructure. However, this study begins to scratch the surface of a large area of research that can act as the first step toward more reliable evaluation of innovation in infrastructure projects.
Measurement of innovation capability in supply chain: an exploratory study
Authors: Iddris Faisal
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the development of innovation capability construct measures in the context of supply chain and to objectively identify the key dimensions for stimulating focal firms’ innovativeness.

Design/methodology/approach

The scale items for this research were obtained from extant literature. The data were collected from homogenous sample of 117 Ghanaian middle level managers (respondents). Exploratory factor analysis was used to identify the main dimensions of innovation capability. Based on the statistical analysis, four dimensions were obtained – idea management, idea implementation, collaboration and learning – and the convergent validity, discriminant validity, nomological validity and reliability tests indicate that the scales are valid and reliable

Findings

Four dimensions (factors) of innovation capability were identified from the exploratory factor analysis. These dimensions were labelled as idea management, idea implementation, collaboration and learning. The results indicate that the integration of the dimensions of innovation capability may stimulate a focal firm’s innovativeness.

Research limitations/implications

First, the measurement scale might not capture all the important dimensions of innovation capability. Second, the judgmental sampling used in this study means that the result cannot be generalised to the entire supply chain population, third, the sample was drawn from one geographical location using non-probability sampling technique.

Practical implications

The measures provide supply chain managers with a better approach of understanding the innovation capability in their supply chain. For instance, the measurement of supply chain’s innovation capability should help supply chain managers to determine the important innovation areas that need attention most and to permit them to respond to challenges posed by any kind of innovation capability dimension that needs to be enhanced.

Originality/value

The unique contribution of this paper is the development innovation capability measurement scale in the context of supply chain.