bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A design concept of fuzzy decision support system for construction workers safety monitoring
Authors: Winanda Lila Ayu Ratna , Arifin Achmad , Arrofiqi Fauzan , Adi Trijoko Wahyu , Anwar Nadjadji
Published: January 2019

A construction project is very dynamic activities with high workloads and tight schedules, resulting in a fatigue condition of the workers. Due to the worker’s physical and physiological conditions that change over time, the risks may be varying from fatigue, and may become a potential danger of accidents. In a modern construction work safety should be planned, monitored, analyzed easily using a sophisticated system. As an attempt to realize the system, our research group developed a decision support system for construction worker safety monitoring based on fuzzy system approach. The design concept of the fuzzy decision support system with focus on worker performance related to prediction of fatigue and safety is discussed in this paper. The decision support system was designed based on fuzzy inference system with physiological data (heart rate, body temperature, and muscle activity) and project environment (working space temperature) models. The knowledge about of human subject condition reflected by the physiological data, environmental conditions and their relationship with working performance and safety are formulated in a linguistic inference system. The realized system demonstrates the ability to evaluate worker performance during work hour and prediction of fatigue. The realized system is useful as an early warning system for the prevention of construction workers accident and a part of our attempt to realize the modern safety management system.
Agency cost estimation on flexible and rigid pavement
Authors: Handayani Fajar Sri , Pramesti Florentina Pungky , Wibowo Mochamad Agung , Setyawan Ary
Published: January 2019

Flexible pavement is a road pavement type which is commonly used, however rigid pavement is also widely used now days in Indonesia. It has even been used for local roads (managed by local authority), which take in heavy vehicle loads. This rigid pavement is used because it has longer service life and higher durability. The need for a durable road resulted in higher construction costs, whereas the budget for local road design and construction is often limited. This study aims to evaluate the agency costs that must be incurred for flexible and rigid pavement construction. Two alternatives of design life are simulated for each type of pavement, namely design lives of 10+10 year and 20 year for flexible pavement and design lives of 20+20 year and 40 year for rigid pavement. The agency costs of those alternatives are analysed using Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) program-RealCost 2.5. The results show agency costs for alternative flexible pavement 1 (design life of 10y + 10y) and alternative 2 (design life of 20 y) are $ 1,421,930 and $ 1,061,680 respectively. Furthermore for the rigid pavement, the agency cost for alternative 1 (design life 20y + 20 y) and alternative 2 (design life 40 y) is $. 443,990 and $. 350,870 respectively.
Comparing safety climate in infrastructure and building projects in Indonesia
Authors: Sunindijo Riza Yosia , Loosemore Martin , Lestari Fatma , Kusminanti Yuni , Widanarko Baiduri , Febrina Cynthia , Amelia Fiori
Published: January 2019

Despite the rapid growth of the Indonesian construction industry and its significance to the national economy, health and safety in the industry remains poor. This research focuses on safety climate, a popular indicator of health and safety performance that has not been adequately investigated in the Indonesian construction industry despite the size of the country and the poor health and safety record of the industry. Specifically, this research aims to compare the safety climate levels in infrastructure and building projects and identify factors that account for their differences or similarities. A safety climate questionnaire was distributed to respondents working in an infrastructure project and two medium-rise building projects, where 311 respondents participated in total. The findings show that the building projects have a higher level of safety climate than the safety climate in the infrastructure project despite the fact that the infrastructure project was managed by a joint venture involving international contractors known for their health and safety commitment. We argue that project complexity is the main factor responsible for explaining this difference. Complex projects require stringent enforcement of health and safety rules and procedures, and supportive work environments conducive for health and safety implementation.
Construction project productivity assesment model and its implementation in Indonesia construction industry
Authors: Prastianing Atas Kasih Rintih , Joko Wahyu Adi Tri
Published: January 2019

The increase of global competition in the world of construction forced construction companies to increase their productivity. One of the most important parts of the construction project is productivity. It is absolutely necessary to have a thorough research on the construction project productivity (CPP), so that contractors know the productivity level of their projects. This assessment has an effect on increasing the productivity of a construction project until it achieves the highest level of the construction project productivity. The purpose of this study is to propose a construction project productivity assesment model. In this study, project productivity variables are obtained by conducting in-depth literature review and structured interview with construction experts. Pairwise comparison is used to determine the factor weight. The final assessment is represented in the form of a web spider graph. To validate the model, several building projects in Indonesia are used as a case study. The weight for the CPP assessment at the internal level was 73.8% at an external rate of 26.2%. At the internal level, there are 2 categories namely: management category for 39.38% and human category for 34.42%. CPP results in Indonesia are the highest in the category of human variable worker turnover and availability while the lowest is in the category of management inspection delays.
Design Criterion of Reinforcement on Thick Soft Clay Foundations of Traditional Construction Method in Indonesia
Authors: Nurdin Suyuti , Sawada Kazuhide , Moriguchi Shuji
Published: January 2019

It is commonplace that the ground near river is thickly covered with soft clay. Thus, in order to prevent it from the natural hazard, it is necessary that local people construct a robust embankment of countermeasure by constructing river bank in the soft ground, with low level of bearing capacity. To solve the problem aforementioned, local people are widely known to apply traditional method such as timber or bamboo pile. To establish this method, the Ministry of Public Works has published a technical guideline for reinforced soft ground before embankment. The guideline shows the process of mattress construction including: 1) cutting the ground for site preparation; 2) installing timber piles; 3) laying geo-grid on top of the piles and; 4) putting and compacting a granular material on the geo-grid. The guideline assists engineers to construct an embankment on the mattress. Unfortunately, the guideline never details a reasonable design based on geotechnical engineering. Hence, this paper aims to propose and discuss, a criterion of bearing capacity of reinforced soft clay using several empirical calculations. The model cases were simulated for small footings subjected by static loading on the mattress. As a result, the calculations will lead to the criterion of allowable bearing capacity of reinforced soft clay with timber pile.
Flood-induced Bridge Failures in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Holemba Gibson Ali , Matsumoto Takashi
Published: January 2019

Papua New Guinea has been experiencing frequent bridge failures and collapses due to flooding rivers in the recent past. According to the records from Papua New Guinea Department of Works, it is estimated that over Two Hundred and Eighty (285) bridges, fords (causeways) and major culverts were damaged by flood action alone in the last five years between 2013-2017. That is approximately at an average rate of 57 bridges in a year. This result is very disturbing and as such this study was undertaken to assess and analyze the flood-induced bridge failure causes and offer applicable solutions. This study will report on the field investigation works and results derived from the twenty-one flood affected bridges in six different major road networks in three provinces of Papua New Guinea. Hence, it was observed in this study that substructure damages due to flooding account for seventy percent (70%) of the bridge damages while superstructure damages account for the thirty percent (30%). The common causes of flood-induced bridge failures were identified as local scour around bridge piers and abutments, contraction scours, sedimentation, debris, and log impact.
Effects of Using Limestone as a Filler and Starbit E-55 Asphalt as a Binder on the Performance of AC-WC Mixture
Authors: Chasanah Faizul , Arta Putra Fajariesta
Published: January 2019

Asphalt concrete can be made through several methods including hot mix using Starbit E-55 asphalt as a binder and limestone as filler. This research aimed to determine the feasibility of the use of limestone as filler in AC-WC mixture and to identify the effects of limestone addition on the Marshall Characteristics, Durability, Indirect Tensile Strength (ITS), and Permeability. The first stage was to test the properties of materials consisting of aggregate, asphalt, and limestone. The second stage was to determine the optimum asphalt content with 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% filler proportions, and the last stage was to conduct the Marshall, Immersion, ITS, and Permeability tests. The results showed that limestone has been in accordance with the performance requirements specified for a filler of AC-WC mixture using Starbit E-55 asphalt as a binder. There was a change in the Marshall characteristics of optimum asphalt content. The durability increased, and the ITS values of AC-WC mixture improved along with the increase in limestone proportion. However, the permeability test indicated that the mixture has a poor drainage feature towards water after variation in filler proportions was performed.
Shear capacity of reinforced concrete beams strengthened with web side bonded CFRP sheets
Authors: Thamrin Rendy , Zaidir  , Haris Sabril
Published: January 2019

The shear capacity of reinforced concrete beams strengthened with web side bonded carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets was measured experimentally. Nine reinforced concrete beams without stirrups; three control beams and six beams strengthened with minimal application of web side bonded CFRP sheets, were tested. The test variables were ratio of longitudinal reinforcement (1%, 1.4%, and 2.4%) and angle of application of CFRP sheets (450 and 900). The test results show that reinforced concrete beams strengthened with web side bonded CFRP sheets have higher shear capacity compared to the control beams. Shear capacity of strengthened beams with 450 angle of application of CFRP sheets is similar to that of beams strengthened with 900 angles. Beams with 1% of longitudinal reinforcement ratio failed in flexural mode indicated by concrete crushing in compression zone while beams with higher longitudinal reinforcement ratio (1.4% and 2.4%) failed in brittle mode as indicated by delamination of the concrete cover.
Analysis of behavior of slope models for collapsing from stability by shaking table tests under 1G field
Authors: Nakamura Susumu
Published: January 2019

The two major subjects were considered based on a result of the shaking experiment of a slope model under 1G field in this paper. One is the behavior to being unstable from stability of a slope. Second is applicability of Newmark method for the behavior beyond the stable limit behavior. The existing experimental data obtained by shaking table tests of slope models under 1G were used. The slope models consisted of 3 layers such as surface layer, weak layer and base layer. Among the models, the heights were 1.0m for small size model, 2.0m for medium size model. The occurrence location of slip surface is restricted in the weak layer. It is found that slip surface is formed by connecting shear cracks which have formed discretely after generating a tensile crack in the top, and that the yield acceleration is the same with the acceleration which acts on a slope when collapsing against a sinusoidal input wave. Furthermore, appropriate consideration is necessary to use the Newmark method for a design because the variation in the estimated value according to the strength characteristic is very large.
Finite element modeling of masonry wall with mortar 1pc : 4 lime : 10 sand under lateral force
Authors: Darmayadi Danna , Satyarno Iman
Published: January 2019

This paper gives a detailed presentation of three-dimensional Finite Element Model that has been constructed for Masonry Wall under lateral force by using Abaqus software. This research aimed to investigate the behavior of Masonry Walls under lateral force and developed load-displacement curve. From the result that The numerical model using the Abaqus Software can represent the load-displacement curve of Masonry Walls due to lateral forces, Numerical Results with the Abaqus Software obtained that the magnitude of the load on condition of Plastic is 82.13 KN and experimental results obtained of 81 KN. There is a difference of 1.4%, Based on Abaqus Software with Numerical results obtained a compressive strength of masonry wall fm = 1.8 MPa with a modulus of elasticity = 150 MPa, Calculation of the natural frequency of structures with Abaqus Software is obtained as the difference of 2.13-2.92% with the test results Hakas (2017)
Two nodes cusp geometry beam element by using condensed IGA
Authors: Gan Buntara Sthenly , Han Ay Lie
Published: January 2019

A cusp is a curve which is made by projecting a smooth curve in the 3D Euclidean space on a plane. Such a projection results in a curve whose singularities are self-crossing points or ordinary cusps. Self-crossing points created when two different points of the curves have the same projection at a point. Ordinary cusps created when the tangent to the curve is parallel to the direction of projection on a single point. The study of a cusp geometry beam is more complex than that of a straight beam because the structural deformations of the cusp geometry beam depend also on the coupled tangential displacement caused by the singular geometry. The Isogeometric Approach (IGA) is a computational geometry based on a series of polynomial basis functions used to represent the exact geometry. In IGA, the cusp geometry of the beam element can be modeled exactly. A thick cusp geometry beam element can be developed based on the Timoshenko beam theory, which allows the vertical shear deformation and rotatory inertia effects. The shape of the beam geometry and the shape functions formulation of the element can be obtained from IGA. However, in IGA, the number of equations will increase according to the number of degree of freedom (DOF) at the control points. A new condensation method is adopted to reduce the number of equations at the control points so that it becomes a standard two-node 6-DOF beam element. This paper highlights the application of IGA of a cusp geometry Timoshenko beam element in the context of finite element analysis and proposes a new condensation method to eliminate the drawbacks elevated by the conventional IGA. Examples are given to verify the effectiveness of the condensation method in static and free vibration problems.
Hyperparameter search in periodic vehicle routing problem
Authors: Grakova Ekaterina , Golasowski Martin , Montemanni Roberto , Slaninová Kateřina , Martinovič Jan , Jamal Jafar , Janurová Kateřina , Salani Matteo
Published: January 2019

The large number of real-world applications have shown that the use of computational method for distribution process planning produces substantial savings. Many of these applications lead to problem generally known as Vehicle Routing Problem. The real-world applications are highly computationally demanding for larger instances. This article aims to show the possibilities and benefits of using hyperparameter search for solving the Periodic Vehicle Routing Problem for exhausted oil collection by execution on the supercomputing infrastructure using HyperLoom platform. HyperLoom is an open source platform for defining and executing scientific pipelines in a distributed environment. This experiment was run on the supercomputer Salomon operated by IT4Innovations.
The Possibility of CO2 Pipeline Transport for Enhanced Oil Recovery Project in Poland
Authors: Wojnarowski Paweł , Czarnota Robert , Włodek Tomasz , Janiga Damian , Stopa Jerzy , Kosowski Piotr
Published: January 2019

Enhanced oil recovery schemes involve the transportation of large volumes of carbon dioxide from the capture source to the utilisation site. This research presents the possibilities of carbon dioxide transport using pipeline from the selected emission point to the oil reservoir located in Poland where greenhouse gas can be used as injecting fluid to improve oil production. In the first step, the different CO2 thermodynamic states are analyzed. For the design purpose, length, operating pressures and flow rates are determined, then pipeline diameter is calculated. Furthermore, the pipeline transmission schemes for CO2 transport are proposed. The study revealed, that the large amount of CO2 produced at source power plant can be transported to the oilfield site more efficiently when CO2 is converted into the liquid state. As a result, the smaller pipeline diameter can be applied for the transmission. Moreover, temperature decrease is observed when CO2 is transported in gaseous state and temperature increase is present when CO2 is in the liquefied state.
Flight Delay Prediction Based on Characteristics of Aviation Network
Authors: Zhou Tan , Gao Qiang , Chen Xin , Xun Zongwei
Published: January 2019

In recent years, the increasingly serious flight delay affects the development of the civil aviation. It is meaningful to establish an effective model for predicating delay to help airlines take responsive measures. In this study, we collect three years’ operation data of a domestic airline company. To analyse the temporal pattern of the Aviation Network (AN), we obtain a time series of topological statistics through sliding the temporal AN with an hourly time window. In addition, we use K-means clustering algorithm to analyse the busy level of airports, which makes the airport property value more precise. Finally, we add delay property and use CHAID decision tree algorithm to train the data of an airline for nearly 3 years and use the train?ing model to predicate recent half a year delay. The experimental results show that the accuracy of the model is close to 80%.
The safety analysis of transportation vehicles carrying prefabricated units under the action of gusts
Authors: Yao Gang , Wang Mingpu , Yang Yang
Published: January 2019

The prefabricated-unit industry has developed rapidly and the safety of vehicles carrying prefabricated units has received extensive attention. In order to evaluate the safety of vehicles carrying prefabricated units under the action of gusts, the roughness of road surfaces was simulated by the sinusoid superposition method. Furthermore, the wind load was simulated by the harmonic synthesis method. The analysis model of the 13-DOF vehicle was established, and the wind-vehicle-road system was formed. In addition, the safety of the vehicles carrying prefabricated units under gusts was analyzed. It is demonstrated that when a vehicle encounters a sudden gust during driving, lateral deviation of the body will occur. The contact force on the windward side wheel will drop sharply and the wheel is easy to get off the ground, which decides whether a rollover accident happens or not. It sheds light on the safety analysis for ultra-wide and overweight vehicles under gust action.
Study on the takeoff landing number of emergency rescue aircraft demand after earthquake
Authors: xiuyan Zhang , hong Chi
Published: January 2019

Due to the lack of information after earthquake, the demand for takeoff landing number of emergency rescue aircraft is not clear. The model for takeoff landing number of emergency rescue aircraft demand after earthquake is constructed. Firstly, the total task amount of emergency rescue is determined according to the number of injured persons and the number of victims after the earthquake. Then, according to the damage degree of the ground roads in the earthquake area, the amount of aviation emergency rescue mission is determined. Finally, based on the information of emergency rescue aircraft fleet, the actual takeoff landing number of emergency rescue aircraft is calculated. The rationality of the model is verified by the data of 5 actual earthquake events from 2008, to provide guidance for effective aviation emergency rescue after earthquake.
Inventory lot sizing and supplier selection for multiple products, multiple suppliers, multiple periods with storage space using lingo program
Authors: Sambatt Muoyleang , Woarawichai Chirawat , Naenna Thanakorn
Published: January 2019

This study focuses on inventory lot sizing for supplier selection of multiple products; suppliers and periods with storage space constraint. The objective is to develop mathematical model. Lingo software program is used as solution tool. The proposed problem is found as mix integer linear programming (MILP) which beneficial for decision making of choosing optimal supplier and product in right period of time with minimum overall inventory cost.
A two-stage policy for improving the efficiency of the traffic network by providing value-added ATIS service
Authors: Liang Jingjing , Zhang Xiaoning , Liang Zhe
Published: January 2019

Based on the pay-per-use charge in mobile Apps, value-added advanced traveler information systems (VATIS) service can be provided in traffic networks. From the perspective of the traffic manager, we propose a two- stage policy for improving the efficiency of traffic networks by providing VATIS service. At the first stage, the traffic manager selects several ATIS service providers, then offers seed fund to each of them to encourage VATIS service provision. At the second stage, the traffic manager announces a given target of the total market penetration of VATIS service and encourages service providers to achieve it together. If they could complete the task, compensation will be paid. To evaluate the efficiency of this policy, four scenarios are formulated by four bi-level models, and the total travel time is set as the evaluation indicator. Numerical experiments show that, the suggested policy can reduce total travel time dramatically if the market penetration target has been appropriately selected.
Study on Electronic Energy Meter Failure Power Calculation Based on Metering Automation Systems
Authors: Li Gu , Jiang Zhitian , Yu Xiaoyan , Cen Zhirong , Yan Jiefeng
Published: January 2019

Whether the energy metering device is accurate or not is related to the economic interests of both the division and sale of electric power, but in reality, energy metering device failure is inevitable. When a failure occurs, it must be certain of the correct way to calculate the accrued power. Classic methods of electricity are estimated by returning and adding “correction coefficient”, but the fault characteristics of electronic table differs from previous induction meter. Electrical parameters and the cumulative power is erratic, leading to “correction coefficient method” failure. This paper describes a means of electrical parameter automation metering systems continuously recorded using the thought of “integration”, the correction coefficient to compensate for the lack of power to solve real projections fault electronic energy meter problem.
Study on recycling and leaching valuable elements from Bayan Obo tailings
Authors: Zhang Bo , Xue Xiangxin , Huang Xiaowei , Yang He , Chen Gongjin
Published: January 2019

A novel process for recovering iron, niobium and scandium from Bayan Obo tailings has been developed. In this paper, the treatment of Bayan Obo tailings by Ca(OH)2-coal roasting and sulfuric acid leaching process was investigated. In the Ca(OH)2-coal roasting process, niobium-bearing minerals are converted to CaTiO3 structure of Ca(Ti0.8,Fe0.1,Nb0.1)O3 and Ca2Nb2O7 which are soluble in sulfuric acid. The pyroxene and amphibole that are Sc-bearing silicates are mainly decomposed and reduced into metallic iron which can be recycled by weak magnetic separation. Scandium in the silicates is converted to Sc2O3. In the sulfuric acid leaching process, Ca(Ti0.8,Fe0.1,Nb0.1)O3 and Ca2Nb2O7 are converted to Nb(OH)5 that could easily dissolve in sulfuric acid by dissociating into Nb(OH)4+ and OH− when Sc2O3 is dissolved into heat sulfuric acid. Bayan Obo tailings were roasted with Ca(OH)2-coal at elevated temperature, followed by magnetic separation and sulfuric acid leaching. The optimized experimental parameters are proposed as follows: Ca(OH)2-coal-tailings mass ratio of 20: 5: 100; roasting at 1200 °C for 2 h; the magnetic field (magnetic separation) of 270 mT; the liquid-solid ratio of 4:1 (ml/g); leaching at 245 °C for 1 h. Iron concentrate with a grade of 88.39% and a recovery rate of 91.92% is obtained. The leaching results show that the leaching rates of niobium and scandium could achieve 95.52% and 95.75%, respectively.
Characterization of the mineral phases of the iron ore pellet via 3D reconstruction using serial sectioning
Authors: Wei Wang , Zheng Heng , Xu Runsheng , Wu Fenglou , Chen Weilin , Jia Bin , Xue Zhengliang
Published: January 2019

A new analysis method based on serial sectioning and three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction was developed for the quantification of minerals in an iron ore pellet. The morphology and spatial distribution of the minerals in 3D space were analysed via 3D reconstructed images of an iron ore pellet. The volume fraction of the minerals in the 3D image was also calculated based on the pixel points. The results showed that the morphology and spatial distributions of hematite, magnetite and silicate varied among different pellets as well as among different positions within the same pellet. Thick plate and interconnected hematite was observed in the outer area of the pellets, whereas the inner area of the pellets mainly contained small granular and independent hematite. The hematite grains in pellet 1 were small, whereas those in pellet 2 were relatively dense. Some of the magnetite in pellet 1 was in the form of dense blocks, whereas fewer blocks were found in pellet 2, where magnetite occurred mainly in chain form scattered within the large particles of hematite. The silicate in pellet 2 was dense, granular and smaller than that in pellet 1. The quantitative analysis results for the two kinds of pellets showed that pellet 2 contained more hematite. Moreover, pellet 2 contained less unoxidized magnetite than pellet 1. These results indicate that the main bonding phase in pellet 1 was magnetite, whereas the main binding phase in pellet 2 was hematite. The greater compressive strength of pellet 2 was strongly related to higher amount of hematite interconnections.
Concentrating Pt from a spent alumina carrier catalyst by a roast-leach process
Authors: Dong Haigang , Zhao Jiachun , Tong Weifeng , Cui Hao , Wu Yuedong
Published: January 2019

A roast-leach process has been developed for concentrating platinum (Pt) from a spent Pt-Al2O3 catalyst. The effects of (NH4)2SO4 to spent catalyst mass ratio, roasting temperature and roasting time on the Pt enrichment factors were investigated. The results showed that the optimized roasting conditions were (NH4)2SO4 to spent catalyst mass ratio of 7.5, roasting temperature of 350 °C and roasting time of 5 h. The roasted product was mainly comprised of soluble NH4Al(SO4)2 and Al2(SO4)3 according to XRD analysis. The roasted product was leached in sulfuric acid to remove the soluble sulfates, and meanwhile Pt was kept in the residue. Under optimized conditions, a Pt concentrate with Pt content of 73.2% could be obtained from the spent catalyst with 0.27% Pt, and the corresponding Pt enrichment factor was more than 270.
An Uncommon Cause of Intraoperative Hypotension: Delayed Red Man Syndrome
Authors: Nagmoti Shilpa V. , Prathapadas Unnikrishnan , Hrishi Ajay P.
Published: January 2019

Intraoperative hypotension is commonly encountered under anesthesia. Varied causation of intraoperative hypotension can often delay the recognition of its cause. Vancomycin, a bactericidal antibiotic and often used in neurosurgical setting, is known to cause “red man syndrome.” Prompt recognition of the etiology for intraoperative hypotension could be challenging in intraoperative setting. We present a case of intraoperative hypotension in a patient undergoing endoscopic skull base surgery, which was caused by a delayed red man syndrome. Delayed red man syndrome is a rare clinical entity and must be borne in mind while evaluating a case of intraoperative hypotension in patients who are on vancomycin therapy.
How Should We Measure Body Temperature in the Pediatric Emergency Department? Which One Is the Most Accurate?
Authors: Yazar Abdullah , Türe Esra
Published: January 2019

The aim of this study is to evaluate temperature measurement methods in children. Body temperatures of 3 to 18 years old patients were measured with a tympanic infrared thermometer, a noncontact infrared skin thermometer and with a temporal artery thermometer. While the specificity of temporal artery and noncontact thermometers were good in determination of temperatures above 37.5°C, their sensitivities were low. Positive predictive value and negative predictive value for both thermometers were sufficient. Both specificity and sensitivity of both thermometers were determined to be good at temperature values above ≥ 38°C. It is thought that noncontact and temporal artery thermometers can be used for screening in pediatric emergency departments.
Impact of the p+ layer on current-voltage characteristics of Cu(In,Ga)Se2-based solar cells
Authors: Maciaszek Marek
Published: January 2019

Cu(In,Ga)Se2-based solar cells often exhibit fill factor losses at low temperature, in particular after red illumination or reverse biasing. A narrow p+ layer between the absorber and buffer layers is commonly assumed to explain these effects. In this contribution, we analyze by means of analytical and numeric models the influence of the parameters of the p+ layer on current-voltage characteristics. Specifically, we find expressions linking the voltage at which the deterioration of the current-voltage curve begins with the acceptor density and the width of the p+ layer. Moreover, we derive formulas describing the height of the barrier in the conduction band caused by the p+ layer. Examples of the analysis of simulated current-voltage characteristics using our approach are presented. Based on the voltage at which the decrease of the current starts, it is possible to estimate the upper and lower limits of the density of the acceptors in the p+ layer. Furthermore, we analyze the relationship between the fill factor and the height of the barrier in the conduction band, which is determined by the density of acceptors in the p+ layer.
Beta gallium oxide (β-Ga2O3) nanoelectromechanical transducer for dual-modality solar-blind ultraviolet light detection
Authors: Zheng Xu-Qian , Xie Yong , Lee Jaesung , Jia Zhitai , Tao Xutang , Feng Philip X.-L.
Published: January 2019

Empowered by an ultrawide bandgap (Eg = 4.5–4.9 eV), beta gallium oxide (β-Ga2O3) crystal is an ideal material for solar-blind ultraviolet (SBUV, λ < 280 nm) detection. Here, we report on the first demonstration of dual-modality SBUV light sensing integrated in the same device enabled by multi-physics coupling across photo-electrical and photo-thermo-mechanical domains. The specially designed suspended β-Ga2O3 nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) transducer reveals dual-modality responses, with a photocurrent responsivity of 4 mA/W and a frequency shift responsivity of 250 Hz/nW, upon SBUV light exposure. An additional demonstration of a β-Ga2O3 photo-field-effect transistor exhibits a boosted responsivity of 63 A/W. Analysis on the device suggests that reducing the thickness and length of the transducer could further improve the SBUV light sensing responsivities for both modalities. The demonstration could pave the way for future realization of SBUV detectors with dual modalities for enhanced detection fidelity, or respectively optimized for different sensing scenarios.
Behavior of magnetic field in a rectangular plate with orthogonal anisotropic conductivity
Authors: Liu Huifeng , Li Junlin , Yang Donghui
Published: January 2019

A theoretical method for studying the behavior of magnetic field intensity inside a rectangular plate with orthotropic anisotropic conductivity was presented. Firstly, based on Maxwell’s equations, the mathematical model for the magnetic field in the plate was established. Then, the governing equation for determining the magnetic field intensity was solved by double Fourier sinusoidal transformation. Furthermore, taking graphite rectangular plate as an example, the magnetic field intensity inside the plate was simulated and the behavior of the magnetic field was introduced in detail. Lastly, the effects of the plate’s size, the external excitation frequency and the conductivity of graphite on the internal magnetic field intensity were analyzed.
Abnormal segmental dynamics of poly(methyl methacrylate)/poly(vinylidene fluoride) blends by mechanical spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Na , Wu Xuebang , Liu C. S.
Published: January 2019

The molecular relaxation dynamics of PMMA/PVDF blends above the glass transition temperature (Tg) over a wide composition range are studied by mechanical spectroscopy combined with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) measurements. The mechanical spectra of the blends reveal the existence of two relaxation modes: α, ascribed to the glass transition, and α′, related to the softening dispersion composed of the sub-Rouse modes and the Rouse modes. At ϕPVDF = 40%, both the α and α′ relaxation processes shift to low-temperatures and are accelerated, which is due to the formation of the interphase and unfavourable interchain entanglements in the intermediate composition. The abnormal dynamics of the blend at ϕPVDF = 40% is further confirmed by the observed weak interaction between PMMA and PVDF from FTIR measurements and an obvious drop of the intermolecular coupling from the Coupling Model. However, the longer α′ relaxation shows a different dynamic behavior from the α relaxation for the blends with increasing the PVDF content at ϕPVDF ≤ 40%, which is due to the structure evolution and the change of chains entanglement with heating. This work enriches the understanding of the complex relaxation dynamics and the structure evolution in PMMA/PVDF blends.
Enhanced resistance to bacterial and oomycete pathogens by short tandem target mimic RNAs in tomato
Authors: Canto-Pastor Alex , Santos Bruno A. M. C. , Valli Adrian A. , Summers William , Schornack Sebastian , Baulcombe David C.
Published: January 2019

Nucleotide binding site leucine-rich repeat (NLR) proteins of the plant innate immune system are negatively regulated by the miR482/2118 family miRNAs that are in a distinct 22-nt class of miRNAs with a double mode of action. First, they cleave the target RNA, as with the canonical 21-nt miRNAs, and second, they trigger secondary siRNA production using the target RNA as a template. Here, we address the extent to which the miR482/2118 family affects expression of NLR mRNAs and disease resistance. We show that structural differences of miR482/2118 family members in tomato (
Solanum lycopersicum
) are functionally significant. The predicted target of the miR482 subfamily is a conserved motif in multiple NLR mRNAs, whereas for miR2118b, it is a noncoding RNA target formed by rearrangement of several different NLR genes. From RNA sequencing and degradome data in lines expressing short tandem target mimic (STTM) RNAs of miR482/2118, we confirm the different targets of these miRNAs. The effect on NLR mRNA accumulation is slight, but nevertheless, the tomato STTM lines display enhanced resistance to infection with the oomycete and bacterial pathogens. These data implicate an RNA cascade of miRNAs and secondary siRNAs in the regulation of NLR RNAs and show that the encoded NLR proteins have a role in quantitative disease resistance in addition to dominant gene resistance that has been well characterized elsewhere. We also illustrate the use of STTM RNA in a biotechnological approach for enhancing quantitative disease resistance in highly bred cultivars.
Impression management in the Early Modern English courtroom
Authors: Archer Dawn
Published: January 2019

This paper draws upon three texts from the trial section of theCorpus of English Dialogues, in order to explore the tactical impression management strategies used by Early Modern English courtroom participants (defendants, judges, lawyers and witnesses). I will demonstrate that modern impression management strategies (identified with other activity types in mind) are in evidence in the texts, as are additional courtroom-specific strategies. I discuss the nuances of these impression management tactics, in light of (a) the obvious power differences between the participants involved, (b) the need to be perceived as credible in this legal setting, and (c) their convergence with particular types of face(work).
Beyond speech representation
Authors: Grund Peter J.
Published: January 2019

This article is concerned with “speech descriptors”, markers that describe or evaluate the nature of represented speech, such asvery modestlyin “The Gentlewoman very modestly bade him welcome” (CED, D2FKIT). The form, frequency and function of such features are charted in Early Modern English prose fiction, drawn fromA Corpus of English Dialogues 1560–1760, and the results are compared to those ofGrund (2017a), which considers speech descriptors in contemporaneous witness depositions. The comparison reveals generic differences and points to the importance of studying speech descriptors for our understanding of the dynamics of speech representation in the history of English.
Ere and before in English historical corpora, with special reference to the
Corpus of English Dialogues
Authors: Rissanen Matti
Published: January 2019

In this paper, the use of two roughly synonymous temporal adverbial links, ere and
before, will be discussed. The survey will cover the history of English, from Old to Present-day English. It
is based on historical corpora, particularly on the Corpus of English Dialogues (1560–1760). Ere
(Old English ær) was originally temporal, while before (Old English beforan)
goes back to the spatial form. In Old English and Early Middle English ere is clearly more common than
before; from Late Middle English on, before becomes the more favoured link. The
Corpus of English Dialogues and later corpora indicate that the use of ere is remarkably
restricted to informal and speech-related discourse.
Changing culture, changing curriculum: a case study of early childhood curriculum innovations in two Chinese kindergartens
Authors: Yang Weipeng , Li Hui
Published: January 2019

School‐based curriculum development (SBCD) has been advocated to enhance the quality of early childhood education within the context of modernization and globalization. However, few studies have examined how the social change and globalization may shape the early childhood curriculum. This study examined SBCD in two Shenzhen kindergartens via interviews, observations and documents to understand the curriculum innovations andhowandwhythe SBCD took place in the Chinese kindergartens. This study revealed that curriculum in each case was an integrated system balancing different curriculum approaches. Also, the conflict and fusion of cultures were found throughout the dynamic transformation of curricula. Social change, reflected by conflicting motives, such as child‐centeredness versus teacher‐directedness, individualism versus collectivism, and imported versus local approaches, played a decisive role in the SBCD. The implications of these findings are discussed.
The effect of oat bran and psyllium husk fibre on oil reduction and some physicochemical properties of magwinya – a deep-fried dough
Authors: Kwinda  , Onipe  , Jideani
Published: January 2019

Oat bran (OB) and psyllium husk fibre (PF) were incorporated into magwinya (fat cake) – a cereal fried dough with the aim of reducing oil content and evaluating some of its physicochemical properties using one-factor of the response surface methodology. Two methods
of magwinya processing were employed: traditional (TM) and modified (MM) methods. Addition of PF and OB significantly (p < 0.05) reduced oil in MM compared to TM. Lowest oil content for PF and OB magwinya were 3.10 and 4.35% using MM and 6.00 and 6.25% for
TM. Addition of PF up to 3% and OB up to 2% significantly improved textural properties. Comparing the additives and the method of production, optimum conditions with highest desirability of 0.83 was obtained for OB modified magwinya with 35.08% moisture, 2.31% ash and 4.74% oil. Hence,
the use of MM and OB reduced oil absorption.
Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) paste as partial fat replacer in the development of reduced fat cooked meat product type pâté: Effect on quality and safety
Authors: Pellegrini  , Lucas-Gonzalez  , Sayas-Barberá  , Fernández-López  , Pérez-Álvarez  , Viuda-Martos
Published: January 2019

The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of partially replacing fat by the addition of three quinoa pastes obtained from white, red and black quinoa on the quality and safety of a cooked meat product such as pork liver pâté. The addition of quinoa paste as fat replacer
led to an increase in the moisture, ash and residual nitrite contents, while the fat content decreased with respect to control sample by an average of 8%. The use of quinoa pastes increased the hardness and the gumminess but had no effect on springiness and cohesiveness. The substitution of
fat with white, red and black quinoa paste at 10% led to lower oxidation rates than observed in the control. No aerobic bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, moulds and yeasts were found in any sample. The most acceptable sample was the pâté containing red quinoa at 5%.
Out of the shadow? Georgia’s emerging strategies of engagement in the Eastern Partnership: between external governance and partnership cooperation
Authors: Fix Liana , Gawrich Andrea , Kakachia Kornely , Leukavets Alla
Published: January 2019

When the Eastern Partnership (EaP) was launched in 2009, the core motivation was to supplement the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) with an improved eastern dimension. The EaP was conceived to offer more incentives and rewards, thereby shifting the manner of cooperation to more partnership and away from asymmetry. This article analyses the intentions and effects of the EaP in the case of EU-Georgia relations by investigating two modes of cooperation (external governance and partnership cooperation), which should theoretically enhance EU-Georgia relations. The article’s results reveal that a more fine-tuned partnership concept best suits an analysis of Georgia’s participation within the EaP, depending on the policy field of cooperation.
The story of promiscuous crucifers: origin and genome evolution of an invasive species, Cardamine occulta (Brassicaceae), and its relatives
Authors: Mandáková Terezie , Zozomová-Lihová Judita , Kudoh Hiroshi , Zhao Yunpeng , Lysak Martin A , Marhold Karol
Published: January 2019

Background and Aims

Cardamine occulta (Brassicaceae) is an octoploid weedy species (2n = 8x = 64) originated in Eastern Asia. It has been introduced to other continents including Europe and considered to be an invasive species. Despite its wide distribution, the polyploid origin of C. occulta remained unexplored. The feasibility of comparative chromosome painting (CCP) in crucifers allowed us to elucidate the origin and genome evolution in Cardamine species. We aimed to investigate the genome structure of C. occulta in comparison with its tetraploid (2n = 4x = 32, C. kokaiensis and C. scutata) and octoploid (2n = 8x = 64, C. dentipetala) relatives.

Methods

Genomic in situ hybridization (GISH) and large-scale CCP were applied to uncover the parental genomes and chromosome composition of the investigated Cardamine species.

Key Results

All investigated species descended from a common ancestral Cardamine genome (n = 8), structurally resembling the Ancestral Crucifer Karyotype (n = 8), but differentiated by a translocation between chromosomes AK6 and AK8. Allotetraploid C. scutata originated by hybridization between two diploid species, C. parviflora and C. amara (2n = 2x = 16). By contrast, C. kokaiensis has an autotetraploid origin from a parental genome related to C. parviflora. Interestingly, octoploid C. occulta probably originated through hybridization between the tetraploids C. scutata and C. kokaiensis. The octoploid genome of C. dentipetala probably originated from C. scutata via autopolyploidization. Except for five species-specific centromere repositionings and one pericentric inversion post-dating the polyploidization events, the parental subgenomes remained stable in the tetra- and octoploids.

Conclusions

Comparative genome structure, origin and evolutionary history was reconstructed in C. occulta and related species. For the first time, whole-genome cytogenomic maps were established for octoploid plants. Post-polyploid evolution in Asian Cardamine polyploids has not been associated with descending dysploidy and intergenomic rearrangements. The combination of different parental (sub)genomes adapted to distinct habitats provides an evolutionary advantage to newly formed polyploids by occupying new ecological niches.
Talk About Self-Harm (TASH): participatory action research with young people, GPs and practice nurses to explore how the experiences of young people who self-harm could be improved in GP surgeries
Authors: Bailey Di , Kemp Linda , Wright Nicola , Mutale Gabriella
Published: January 2019

Background

The incidence of self-harm in young people in primary care is increasing dramatically, and many young people who self-harm visit their GP surgery as a first point of contact for help.

Objective

To explore with young people, GPs and practice nurses (PNs): (i) why young people present with self-harm to primary care and (ii) whether young people, GPs and PNs can take steps to have more helpful consultations about self-harm in GP surgeries that include self-help materials developed by young people being used to support such consultations to take place.

Methods

Participatory action research with GPs, PNs and young people employed mixed methods to collect statistical and narrative data. Statistics from 285 young people’s medical records were captured, including more detailed analyses of a random sample of 75 of these records. A series of 24 focus groups with a total of 45 GPs, PNs and young people, with an average number of eight participants in each group, was conducted. Statistical data were subject to descriptive and inferential analyses, and thematic analysis was applied to the transcripts from the focus groups.

Results and conclusion

The type of self-harm young people presented with influenced whether they would see a GP or PN. While self-help materials were welcomed and deemed helpful, young people, GPs and PNs were ambivalent about using these in short consultations where time was an overriding constraint. More research is needed on the feasibility of adopting self-help assisted interventions in GP surgeries.