bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Origin of Bypass Diode Fault in c-Si Photovoltaic Modules: Leakage Current under High Surrounding Temperature
Authors: Shin Woo Gyun , Ko Suk Whan , Song Hyung Jun , Ju Young Chul , Hwang Hye Mi , Kang Gi Hwan
Published: September 2018

Bypass diodes have been widely utilized in crystalline silicon (c-Si) photovoltaic (PV) modules to maximize the output of a PV module array under partially shaded conditions. A Schottky diode is used as the bypass diode in c-Si PV modules due to its low operating voltage. In this work, we systematically investigated the origin of bypass diode faults in c-Si PV modules operated outdoors. The temperature of the inner junction box where the bypass diode is installed increases as the ambient temperature increases. Its temperature rises to over 70 °C on sunny days in summer. As the temperature of the junction box increases from 25 to 70 °C, the leakage current increases up to 35 times under a reverse voltage of 15 V. As a result of the high leakage current of the bypass diode at high temperature, melt down of the junction barrier between the metal and semiconductor has been observed in damaged diodes collected from abnormally functioning PV modules. Thus, it is believed that the constant leakage current applied to the junction caused the melting of the junction, thereby resulting in a failure of both the bypass diode and the c-Si PV module.
A Systematic Review of Reliability Studies on Composite Power Systems: A Coherent Taxonomy Motivations, Open Challenges, Recommendations, and New Research Directions
Authors: Abunima Hamza , Teh Jiashen , Lai Ching-Ming , Jabir Hussein Jumma
Published: September 2018

Power systems has been subjected to significant upgrades in terms of structure and capacity. Reliability evaluation of composite power systems has surfaced as an essential step in operation and planning stages of the modern power system. It is an effective tool to investigate the ability of power systems to supply customers with reliable power service. The purpose of this review is to enhance the knowledge of reliability studies conducted on composite power systems by providing a critical and systematic review. This work investigates peer-reviewed articles published between 2007 and 2017 in three reliable databases. The findings reveal that the reliability of composite power systems has received considerable attention over the last few years. Secondly, investigation studies demonstrated a crucial role in verifying the impact of adopting new technologies. Third, studies on this topic have been intensively conducted in Asia, which highlights the promising sectors in these regions. However, researchers have generally focused on developing several aspects (e.g., evaluation speed and wind power integration) at the expense of others (e.g., realistic studies and other renewable energy resources). The lack of practical applications is evident in the surveyed publications. These findings imply a potential incoordination between the needs of the real applications and researchers’ tendencies. Future reliability evaluation scholars are advised to consider the findings of this systematic review including concentrating on insufficiently covered topics and enhance the coordination among the efforts devoted in this area.
Inertial and Damping Characteristics of DC Distributed Power Systems Based on Frequency Droop Control
Authors: Xiu Liancheng , Xiong Liansong , Yang Ping , Kang Zhiliang
Published: September 2018

With high penetration of renewable energy, DC distributed power systems (DDPSs) need to improve the inertia response and damping capacity of the power grid. The effects of main circuit parameters and control factors on the inertia, damping and synchronization of the DDPS were studied in this paper. Firstly, the dynamic model of DDPSs based on frequency droop control is established in the DC voltage control (DVC) timescale. Then, a static synchronous generator (SSG) model is used to analyze the parameters that affect the inertial level, damping effect and synchronization capability of the DDPS. The analysis results show that an optimal design of the frequency droop coefficient and proportional integral (PI) parameters of the DC bus voltage control loop can equivalently change the characteristics of inertia and damping when the frequency droop control strategy is applied to the DC/DC converter and the DC bus voltage control strategy is used in the grid-tied inverter. Simulation results verify the correctness of the conclusions. This paper helps to design an effective control strategy for DDPSs to enhance the inertial level and damping effect of the power grid and to improve the stable operation capability of renewable energy systems.
Geographical Accessibility of Community Health Assist Scheme General Practitioners for the Elderly Population in Singapore: A Case Study on the Elderly Living in Housing Development Board Flats
Authors: Deborah Ong , Chiu Marcus , Cao Kai
Published: September 2018

Accessible primary healthcare is important to national healthcare in general and for older persons in particular, in societies where the population is ageing rapidly, as in Singapore. However, although much policy and research efforts have been put into this area, we hardly find any spatial perspective to assess the accessibility of these primary healthcare services. This paper analyzes the geographical accessibility of one major healthcare service in Singapore, namely, General Practitioners (GPs) services under the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) for older persons. A Python script was developed to filter the website data of the Housing Development Board (HDB) of Singapore. The data derived was comprehensively analyzed by an Enhanced 2-Step Floating Catchment Area (E2SFCA) method based on a Gaussian distance-decay function and the GIS technique. This enabled the identification of areas with relatively weak geographical accessibility of CHAS-GPs. The findings are discussed along with suggestions for health practitioners, service planners and policy makers. Despite its initial nature, this study has demonstrated the value of innovative approaches in data collection and processing for the elderly-related studies, and contributed to the field of healthcare services optimization and possibly to other human services.
Epigenetics of Neurodevelopmental Disorders Comes of Age with Roles in Clinical and Educational Applications
Authors: Kubota Takeo
Published: September 2018

Epigenetics is a gene regulation mechanism that does not depend on genomic DNA sequences, but depends instead on chemical modifications of DNA and histone proteins. [...]
K+ and Rb+ Affinities of the Na,K-ATPase α1 and α2 Isozymes: An Application of ICP-MS for Quantification of Na+ Pump Kinetics in Myofibers
Authors: Hakimjavadi Hesamedin , Stiner Cory A. , Radzyukevich Tatiana L. , Lingrel Jerry B. , Norman Natalie , Landero Figueroa Julio A. , Heiny Judith A.
Published: September 2018

The potassium affinities of Na,K-ATPase isozymes are important determinants of their physiological roles in skeletal muscle. This study measured the apparent K+ and Rb+ affinities of the Na,K-ATPase α1 and α2 isozymes in intact, dissociated myofibers obtained from WT and genetically altered mice (α1S/Sα2R/R and skα2−/−). It also validates a new method to quantify cations in intact, dissociated myofibers, using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Our findings were that: (1) The extracellular substrate sites of Na,K-ATPase bind Rb+ and K+ with comparable apparent affinities; however; turnover rate is reduced when Rb+ is the transported ion; (2) The rate of Rb+ uptake by the Na,K-ATPase is not constant but declines with a half-time of approximately 1.5 min; (3) The apparent K+ affinity of the α2 isozymes for K+ is significantly lower than α1. When measured in intact fibers of WT and α1S/Sα2R/R mice in the presence of 10 µM ouabain; the K1/2,K of α1 and α2 isozymes are 1.3 and 4 mM, respectively. Collectively, these results validate the single fiber model for studies of Na,K-ATPase transport and kinetic constants, and they imply the existence of mechanisms that dynamically limit pump activity during periods of active transport.
Infrared Thermography’s Application to Infrastructure Inspections
Authors: Garrido Iván , Lagüela Susana , Arias Pedro
Published: September 2018

Health monitoring and prediction in different types of structures is essential in order to maintain optimal conditions. Some of the pathologies that affect their structural stability are characterized by distinct thermal properties compared to unaltered areas. Infrared thermography (IRT) is a technique based on the acquisition of the thermal radiation of the bodies using thermal sensors of infrared (IR) cameras, which produce an image of the thermal infrared radiation captured through the conversion of the radiation values to temperature values. Therefore, this technique can be used in different studies to analyse structures with one or more pathologies based on their anomalous thermal behaviour with regard to the unaltered surroundings. As a consequence, this review presents various IRT applications to infrastructure inspections, showing the utility of the technique.
Arene Ruthenium Metalla-Assemblies with Anthracene Moieties for PDT Applications
Authors: Gaschard Marie , Nehzat Farzaneh , Cheminel Thomas , Therrien Bruno
Published: September 2018

The synthesis and characterization of three metalla-rectangles of the general formula [Ru4(η6-p-cymene)4(μ4-clip)2(μ2-Lanthr)2][CF3SO3]4 (Lanthr: 9,10-bis(3,3’-ethynylpyridyl) anthracene; clip = oxa: oxalato; dobq: 2,5-dioxido-1,4-benzoquinonato; donq: 5,8-dioxido-1,4-naphthoquinonato) are presented. The molecular structure of the metalla-rectangle [Ru4(η6-p-cymene)4(μ4-oxa)2(μ2-Lanthr)2]4+ has been confirmed by the single-crystal X-ray structure analysis of [Ru4(η6-p-cymene)4(μ4-oxa)2(μ2-Lanthr)2][CF3SO3]4 · 4 acetone (A2 · 4 acetone), thus showing the anthracene moieties to be available for reaction with oxygen. While the formation of the endoperoxide form of Lanthr was observed in solution upon white light irradiation, the same reaction does not occur when Lanthr is part of the metalla-assemblies.
Regeneration of Transected Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Using Hybrid-Transplantation of Skeletal Muscle-Derived Stem Cells and Bioabsorbable Scaffold
Authors: Kazuno Akihito , Maki Daisuke , Yamato Ippei , Nakajima Nobuyuki , Seta Hiroya , Soeda Shuichi , Ozawa Soji , Uchiyama Yoshiyasu , Tamaki Tetsuro
Published: September 2018

Hybrid transplantation of skeletal muscle-derived multipotent stem cells (Sk-MSCs) and bioabsorbable polyglyconate (PGA) felt was studied as a novel regeneration therapy for the transected recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN). Sk-MSCs were isolated from green fluorescence protein transgenic mice and then expanded and transplanted with PGA felt for the hybrid transplantation (HY group) into the RLN transected mouse model. Transplantation of culture medium (M group) and PGA + medium (PGA group) were examined as controls. After eight weeks, trans-oral video laryngoscopy demonstrated 80% recovery of spontaneous vocal-fold movement during breathing in the HY group, whereas the M and PGA groups showed wholly no recoveries. The Sk-MSCs showed active engraftment confined to the damaged RLN portion, representing favorable prevention of cell diffusion on PGA, with an enhanced expression of nerve growth factor mRNAs. Axonal re-connection in the HY group was confirmed by histological serial sections. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed the differentiation of Sk-MSCs into Schwann cells and perineurial/endoneurial cells and axonal growth supportive of perineurium/endoneurium. The number of axons recovered was over 86%. These results showed that the stem cell and cytokine delivery system using hybrid transplantation of Sk-MSCs/PGA-felt is a potentially practical and useful approach for the recovery of transected RLN.
Supramolecular Networks from Block Copolymers Based on Styrene and Isoprene Using Hydrogen Bonding Motifs—Part 2: Dynamic Mechanical Analysis
Authors: Rahmstorf Elaine , Abetz Volker
Published: September 2018

Thermo-reversible supramolecular networks from polyisoprene-block-polystyrene-block-polyisoprene (ISI) triblock copolymers with short, functionalized polyisoprene (PI) blocks were investigated. Functional groups along the PI blocks were hydroxyl groups, ester groups with a carboxylic end-group (-O-CO-CH2-CH2-COOH), and urethane groups with an amine end-group—synthesized from various types of diamines—(-O-CO-NH-R-NH2). Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) was performed at temperatures above Tg of polystyrene (PS) to investigate the influence of the different functional groups, the molecular weight, and the composition of the triblock copolymers on the materials’ properties. Furthermore, comparisons to DMA results of diblock copolymers, modified in the same way, will be presented. Arising reversible and irreversible processes observed during DMA experiments will be compared to results from temperature-dependent Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. For the elaborated systems, the transition from reversible, hydrogen-bonded to permanently cross-linked networks was observed at around 150 °C.
Contrasting In Vitro Apatite Growth from Bioactive Glass Surfaces with that of Spontaneous Precipitation
Authors: Yu Yang , Bacsik Zoltán , Edén Mattias
Published: September 2018

Body-fluid-exposed bioactive glasses (BGs) integrate with living tissues due to the formation of a biomimetic surface layer of calcium hydroxy-carbonate apatite (HCA) with a close composition to bone mineral. Vast efforts have been spent to understand the mechanisms underlying in vitro apatite mineralization, as either formed by direct precipitation from supersaturated solutions, or from BG substrates in a simulated body fluid (SBF). Formally, these two scenarios are distinct and have hitherto been discussed as such. Herein, we contrast them and identify several shared features. We monitored the formation of amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) and its crystallization into HCA from a Na 2 O–CaO–SiO 2 –P 2 O 5 glass exposed to SBF for variable periods out to 28 days. The HCA growth was assessed semi-quantitatively by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and powder X-ray diffraction, with the evolution of the relative apatite content for increasing SBF-exposure periods evaluated against trends in Ca and P concentrations in the accompanying solutions. This revealed a sigmoidal apatite growth behavior, well-known to apply to spontaneously precipitated apatite. The results are discussed in relation to the prevailing mechanism proposed for in vitro HCA formation from silicate-based BGs, where we highlight largely simultaneous growth processes of ACP and HCA.
Synthesis and Irreversible Thermochromic Sensor Applications of Manganese Violet
Authors: Nguyen Duy Khiem , Bach Quang-Vu , Lee Jong-Han , Kim In-Tae
Published: September 2018

An irreversible thermochromic material based on manganese violet (MnNH4P2O7) is synthesized. The crystal phase, chemical composition, and morphology of the synthesized material are analyzed using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The absorption spectra of the synthesized material are obtained using a UV-Vis spectrometer, and the thermochromism exhibited by the powdered samples at high temperatures is also investigated. The as-synthesized manganese violet pigment consists of pure α-MnNH4P2O7 phase. In addition, the synthesized pigment largely consists of hexagonal crystals with a diameter of hundreds of nanometers. On heating, the pigment simultaneously loses H2O and NH3 in two successive steps at approximately 330–434.4 °C and 434.4–527 °C, which correspond to the formation of an intermediate phase and of Mn2P4O12, respectively. An overall mass loss of 14.22% is observed, which is consistent with the expected 13.79%. An irreversible color change from violet to white is observed after exposure of the synthesized manganese violet pigment at 400 °C for 30 min. This is attributed to the oxidation of ammonia to hydroxylamine, which then decomposes to nitrogen and water, or alternatively to the direct oxidation of ammonia to nitrogen. Furthermore, we demonstrate the potential application of synthesized manganese violet in the production of irreversible thermochromic paint by mixing with potassium silicate solution as a binder and deionized water as a solvent at a specific ratio. The thermochromic paint is then applied in fabrication of irreversible thermochromic sensors by coating it onto a steel plate surface. Finally, we show that manganese violet-based irreversible thermochromic sensors are able to detect temperatures around 400 °C by changing color from violet to white/milky.
Hydrogen Peroxide Diffusion through Enamel and Dentin
Authors: Llena Carmen , Martínez-Galdón Oreto , Forner Leopoldo , Gimeno-Mallench Lucía , Rodríguez-Lozano Francisco J. , Gambini Juan
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the in vitro diffusion of commercial bleaching products (hydrogen peroxide (HP) or carbamide peroxide (CP) based) with different application protocols. Human enamel-dentin discs were obtained and divided into 20 groups. Four commercial products based on HP (Pola Office+(PO), Perfect Bleach (PB), Norblanc Office-automix (NO), and Boost (BT)), and one based on CP (PolaDay CP (PD)), were evaluated with different application protocols (3 applications × 10 min or 1 application × 30 min, with or without light activation). Artificial pulp chambers with 100 µL of a buffer solution were prepared. After each application, the buffer was removed and diffused HP was quantified by fluorimetry. Data were analyzed with two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s test. In groups where 3 × 10 min applications were done, after the first 10 min, PB, NO, and PD showed similar diffusion (p < 0.05). After the second and third applications, diffusion proved similar for PO and PD, while PB exhibited the greatest diffusion. In the 30 min application groups, PO and BT showed no significant differences (p > 0.05), with similar results for NO and PD. Comparing products with or without light activation, PO, BT, and PB showed significantly greater diffusion with light activation (p < 0.05). Reapplication, and light activation, increased HP diffusion independently of the concentration of the product.
Grain Boundary Segregation in Pd-Cu-Ag Alloys for High Permeability Hydrogen Separation Membranes
Authors: Løvvik Ole Martin , Zhao Dongdong , Li Yanjun , Bredesen Rune , Peters Thijs
Published: September 2018

Dense metal membranes that are based on palladium (Pd) are promising for hydrogen separation and production due to their high selectivity and permeability. Optimization of alloy composition has normally focused on bulk properties, but there is growing evidence that grain boundaries (GBs) play a crucial role in the overall performance of membranes. The present study provides parameters and analyses of GBs in the ternary Pd-Ag-Cu system, based on first-principles electronic structure calculations. The segregation tendency of Cu, Ag, and vacancies towards 12 different coherent ∑ GBs in Pd was quantified using three different procedures for relaxation of supercell lattice constants, representing the outer bounds of infinitely elastic and stiff lattice around the GBs. This demonstrated a clear linear correlation between the excess volume and the GB energy when volume relaxation was allowed for. The point defects were attracted by most of the GBs that were investigated. Realistic atomic-scale models of binary Pd-Cu and ternary Pd-Cu-Ag alloys were created for the ∑5(210) boundary, in which the strong GB segregation tendency was affirmed. This is a starting point for more targeted engineering of alloys and grain structure in dense metal membranes and related systems.
Calculation Model for Activity of FeO in Quaternary Slag System SiO2-CaO-Al2O3-FeO
Authors: Li Zhi , Ma Guojun , Liu Mengke , Zou Jingjing
Published: September 2018

According to the coexistence theory of slag structure, a calculation model for the activity of FeO in the quaternary system SiO2-CaO-Al2O3-FeO of depleted copper slag was established. The model was used to calculate and analyze the effects of temperature (T), basicity (B), and Al2O3 content on the activity of FeO (NFeO). The results show that temperature has little impact on NFeO. With increased basicity, NFeO first increased slightly, then increased sharply, and finally decreased. It is easier for CaO to combine with SiO2 than FeO to form calcium silicate, which replaces FeO in 2FeO·SiO2 and increases NFeO. However, when basicity is higher than 2.0, CaO not only reacts with SiO2, but also combines with FeO to form calcium ferrate compounds to decrease NFeO. In addition, the activity of FeO decreases with increased Al2O3 content because of the reaction between CaO and Al2O3. The results can be used as a theoretical basis to guide the carbothermal reduction process of copper slag.
Microstructural Characterization of Dissimilar Titanium Alloys Joints Using Ni/Al Nanolayers
Authors: Simões Sónia , Viana Filomena , Ramos Ana S. , Vieira M. Teresa , Vieira Manuel F.
Published: September 2018

This study demonstrates the potential of the use of Ni/Al nanolayers for joining dissimilar titanium alloys. For this purpose, a detailed microstructural characterization of the diffusion bonding interfaces of TiAl to Ti6Al4V, TiAl to TiNi and TiNi to Ti6Al4V was carried out. The nanolayers (alternated aluminum and nickel (Ni-7V wt.%) layers) were deposited onto the base material surfaces. Diffusion bonding was performed at 700 and 800 °C under pressures ranging from 5 to 40 MPa and at dwell times between 60 and 180 min. Microstructural characterization was performed using high resolution transmission and scanning electron microscopies. The results revealed that dissimilar titanium joints (TiAl to Ti6Al4V, TiAl to TiNi and TiNi to Ti6Al4V) assisted by Ni/Al nanolayers can be obtained successfully at 800 °C for 60 min using a pressure of 20 MPa. The bond interfaces are thin (less than 10 µm) and mainly composed of NiAl grains with a few nanometric grains of Al8V5. Thin layers of Al-Ni-Ti intermetallic compounds were formed adjacent to the base materials due to their reaction with the nanolayers.
Fluorescence Enhancement Using Bimetal Surface Plasmon-Coupled Emission from 5-Carboxyfluorescein (FAM)
Authors: Tran Nhu , Trinh Kieu , Lee Jun-Ho , Yoon Won , Ju Heongkyu
Published: September 2018

We demonstrate the enhancement of fluorescence emission from a dye, 5-carboxyfluorescein (FAM), which couples with surface plasmons at the spectral channels of excitation and emission. Experiments and calculations revealed that bimetallic (gold-silver) plasmon, as compared to the monometallic ones, allowed such coupling to be enhanced, at both the spectral channels. We achieved the maximum fluorescence enhancement level of 46.5-fold, with markedly high reproducibility (coefficient of variation ~ 0.5%) at a FAM concentration of 10 nM. We also found that higher fluorescence enhancement was more likely to be reproducible. This encourages the use of this technology for practical applications in fluorescence-based biochemical assays. Moreover, we investigated a FAM concentration-dependent enhancement of fluorescence. It was found that fluorescence enhancement decreased and saturated at above 10 nM concentration possibly due to partial photo-bleaching of FAM molecules.
Status of Retinoids and Carotenoids and Associations with Clinical Outcomes in Maternal-Infant Pairs in Nigeria
Authors: Hanson Corrine , Lyden Elizabeth , Anderson-Berry Ann , Kocmich Nicholas , Rezac Amy , Delair Shirley , Furtado Jeremy , Van Ormer Matthew , Izevbigie N. , Olateju EK , Akaba Godwin O. , Anigilaje EA , Yunusa Tahiru , Obaro Stephen
Published: September 2018

Vitamin A is an essential nutrient in pregnancy, and other carotenoids have been independently associated with maternal-infant outcomes. The objective of this study was to quantify the status of vitamin A and carotenoids in Nigerian maternal-infant pairs at delivery, compare these to a cohort from a developed nation, and determine the impact on clinical outcomes. Maternal and cord blood samples were collected in 99 Nigerian mother-infant pairs. Concentrations of lutein + zeaxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, α- and β-carotenes, and retinol were measured using HPLC. Descriptive statistics were calculated and Spearman coefficients were used to assess correlations between maternal and cord measurements; Mann-Whitney tests were used to compare median plasma values between dichotomous variables. Linear regression models were used to adjust for relevant confounders. A p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Thirty-five percent of mothers had plasma retinol concentrations ≤0.70 µmol/L; 82% of infants had plasma retinol concentrations ≤0.70 µmol/L at delivery. Maternal and infant concentrations of vitamin A compounds were highly correlated and were associated with newborn growth and Apgar scores. Despite plasma concentrations of pro-vitamin A carotenoids higher than those reported in other populations, pregnant Nigerian women have a high prevalence of vitamin A deficiency. As vitamin A related compounds are modifiable by diet, future research determining the clinical impact of these compounds is warranted.
Potential of Red Edge Spectral Bands in Future Landsat Satellites on Agroecosystem Canopy Green Leaf Area Index Retrieval
Authors: Cui Zhaoyu , Kerekes John P.
Published: September 2018

Vegetation biophysical parameter retrieval is an important earth remote sensing system application. In this paper, we studied the potential impact of the addition of new spectral bands in the red edge region in future Landsat satellites on agroecosystem canopy green leaf area index (LAI) retrieval. The test data were simulated from SPARC ‘03 field campaign HyMap hyperspectral data. Three retrieval approaches were tested: empirical regression based on vegetation index, physical model-based look-up-table (LUT) inversion, and machine learning. The results of all three approaches showed that a potential new spectral band located between the Landsat-8 Operational Land Imager (OLI) red and NIR bands slightly improved the agroecosystem green LAI retrieval accuracy (R2 of 0.787 vs. 0.810 for vegetation index approach, 0.806 vs. 0.828 for LUT inversion approach, and 0.925 vs. 0.933 for machine learning approach). The results of this work are consistent with the conclusions from previous research on the value of Sentinel-2 red edge bands for agricultural green LAI retrieval.
An All-Organic Flexible Visible Light Communication System
Authors: Vega-Colado César , Arredondo Belén , Torres Juan Carlos , López-Fraguas Eduardo , Vergaz Ricardo , Martín-Martín Diego , Del Pozo Gonzalo , Romero Beatriz , Apilo Palvi , Quintana Xabier , A. Geday Morten , De Dios Cristina , Sánchez-Pena José Manuel
Published: September 2018

Visible light communication systems can be used in a wide variety of applications, from driving to home automation. The use of wearables can increase the potential applications in indoor systems to send and receive specific and customized information. We have designed and developed a fully organic and flexible Visible Light Communication system using a flexible OLED, a flexible P3HT:PCBM-based organic photodiode (OPD) and flexible PCBs for the emitter and receiver conditioning circuits. We have fabricated and characterized the I-V curve, modulation response and impedance of the flexible OPD. As emitter we have used a commercial flexible organic luminaire with dimensions 99 × 99 × 0.88 mm, and we have characterized its modulation response. All the devices show frequency responses that allow operation over 40 kHz, thus enabling the transmission of high quality audio. Finally, we integrated the emitter and receiver components and its electronic drivers, to build an all-organic flexible VLC system capable of transmitting an audio file in real-time, as a proof of concept of the indoor capabilities of such a system.
Development of a Surface Temperature Sensor to Enhance Energy Efficiency Actions in Buildings
Authors: Mota Lia , Mota Alexandre , Pezzuto Cláudia , Carvalho Marcius , Lavorato Marina , Coiado Lorenzo , Oliveira Everton
Published: September 2018

The air temperature increase in urban centers can lead to problems such as increased energy consumption associated to air conditioning, the intensification of pollution, human discomfort and health problems. In this context, the building envelope plays an important role in urban thermal equilibrium. Energy efficiency rating systems for buildings (LEED—Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, AQUA—High Environmental Quality, PROCEL Edifica, etc.) stimulate energy efficiency actions in the built environment, considering, for example, the envelope and energy efficiency initiatives in buildings. Research carried out recently has shown that monitoring of buildings can provide important information about building performance, supporting building control strategies and enabling actions aimed at improving energy efficiency and thermal comfort. More specifically, wireless sensors are also being used to monitor buildings. This work proposes and presents the development of a surface temperature sensor that can support actions to enhance energy efficiency in the built environment, meeting the requirements proposed by the energy efficiency rating systems of buildings. This sensor must have characteristics such as low cost, the storage capacity of a large amount of data and the possibility of remote monitoring of the collected temperatures. Computer simulations and validation tests were carried out showing that the proposed sensor allows the remote monitoring (using a wireless transmission system) of the surface temperature in buildings, respecting the requirements of high storage capability and low cost.
EasyLB: Adaptive Load Balancing Based on Flowlet Switching for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Guo Zhiqiang , Dong Xiaodong , Chen Sheng , Zhou Xiaobo , Li Keqiu
Published: September 2018

Load balancing is effective in reducing network congestion and improving network throughput in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Due to the fluctuation of wireless channels, traditional schemes achieving load balancing in WSNs need to maintain global or local congestion information, which turn out to be complicated to implement. In this paper, we design a flowlet switching based load balancing scheme, called EasyLB, by extending OpenFlow protocol. Flowlet switching is efficient to achieve adaptive load balancing in WSNs. Nevertheless, one tricky problem lies in determining the flowlet timeout value, δ . Setting it too small would risk reordering issue, while setting it too large would reduce flowlet opportunities. By formulating the timeout setting problem with a stationary distribution of Markov chain, we give a theoretical reference for setting an appropriate timeout value in flowlet switching based load balancing scheme. Moreover, non-equal probability path selection and multiple parallel load balancing paths are considered in timeout setting problem. Experimental results show that, by setting timeout value following the preceding theoretical reference, EasyLB is adaptive to wireless channel condition change and achieves fast convergence of load balancing after link failures.
Fostering Community-Academic Partnerships to Promote Employment Opportunities for Refugees with Disabilities: Accomplishments, Dilemmas, and Deliberations
Authors: Mirza Mansha Parven , Hasnain Rooshey , Duke Kathryn B.
Published: September 2018

Little attention has been given to the processes and dynamics involved in community-engaged research with hard-to-reach and marginalized communities. This concept paper focuses on experiences with and lessons learned from the developmental phase of a community-engaged research project aimed at promoting the economic self-sufficiency of refugees with disabilities in Illinois. Steps taken to foster collaboration between academic researchers and community stakeholders are described, followed by the authors’ commentary on challenges encountered and how these were addressed. Several methods were used to facilitate engagement of community stakeholders. In the pre-funding stage, lead researchers identified potential community partners by networking with coalition groups and task forces focused on disability- and refugee-related issues. In the post-funding stage, relationships with partners were formalized, partners’ roles were defined, and contractual agreements were developed. An advisory board consisting of representatives from partner agencies and self-advocates with disabilities was also assembled to help guide the project goals and deliverables. Structured group and one-on-one meetings were held to sustain community partner engagement. These community engagement strategies were deemed successful. However, challenges did emerge due to conflict between community stakeholders’ preferences, and research logistics and regulatory requirements of the academic institution. Findings suggest that with careful planning, barriers to community-academic collaborations can be addressed in ways that benefit all parties. This paper offers practical strategies and a roadmap for other community-engaged research projects focusing on vulnerable and marginalized groups.
Decarbonisation of Urban Freight Transport Using Electric Vehicles and Opportunity Charging
Authors: Teoh Tharsis , Kunze Oliver , Teo Chee-Chong , Wong Yiik Diew
Published: September 2018

The high costs of using electric vehicles (EVs) is hindering wide-spread adoption of an EV-centric decarbonisation strategy for urban freight transport. Four opportunity charging (OC) strategies—during breaks and shift changes, during loading activity, during unloading activity, or while driving on highways—are evaluated towards reducing EV costs. The study investigates the effect of OC on the lifecycle costs and carbon dioxide emissions of four cases of different urban freight transport operations. Using a parametric vehicle model, the weight and battery capacity of operationally suitable fleets were calculated for ten scenarios (i.e., one diesel vehicle scenario, two EV scenarios without OC, and seven EV scenarios with four OC strategies and two charging technology types). A linearized energy consumption model sensitive to vehicle load was used to calculate the fuel and energy used by fleets for the transport operations. OC was found to significantly reduce lifecycle costs, and without any strong negative influence on carbon dioxide emissions. Other strong influences on lifecycle costs are the use of inductive technology, extension of service lifetime, and reduction of battery price. Other strong influences on carbon dioxide emissions are the use of inductive technology and the emissions factors of electricity production.
Impact Assessment of Growth Drag and Its Contribution Factors: Evidence from China’s Agricultural Economy
Authors: Zhao Mengzhen , Chen Zhenhua , Zhang Hailing , Xue Junbo
Published: September 2018

The sustainable development of agriculture is important for China, where more than 20 percent of the world population live. Many factors affect the sustainable development of agriculture in China. The purpose of this paper is to find out what factors play influential roles on affecting the growth pattern. Based on a modified production function model built upon Slow (1956) and Romer (2001), the impact of growth drag on the agricultural economy, and the contribution resources, are evaluated empirically using a time-series regression analysis based on the case of China for the period 1978–2015. The estimated coefficient of the total agricultural growth drag in China is 1.32, which suggests that the annual agricultural growth is associated with a 1.32 percent decline due to the scarcities of land, water, and energy. Specifically, the growth drags from land, water, and energy are found to be 0.5 percent, 0.44 percent, and 0.38 percent, respectively. Additionally, the results suggest that capital is the most important factor in the agricultural sector, although agriculture is highly dependent on land. Capital contributes around 76.86 percent to the growth of the agricultural economy, whereas contributions from land, energy, water, and technological progress are relatively small. Therefore, more investment should be added to agriculture, to accelerate the technology progress. Furthermore, the saving of water and energy is also important for the sustainable development of agriculture.
Hydrogen and Sodium Absorption in the Optical Transmission Spectrum of WASP-12b
Authors: Jensen Adam G. , Cauley P. Wilson , Redfield Seth , Cochran William D. , Endl Michael
Published: September 2018

We have obtained >10 hr of medium-resolution (R ∼ 15,000) spectroscopic exposures on the transiting exoplanet host star WASP-12, including ∼2 hr while its planet, WASP-12b, is in transit, with the Hobby-Eberly Telescope. The out-of-transit and in-transit spectra are coadded into master out-of-transit and in-transit spectra, from which we create a master transmission spectrum. Strong, statistically significant absorption features are seen in the transmission spectrum at Hα and Na i (the Na D doublet). There is the suggestion of pre- and post-transit absorption in both Hα and Na i when the transmission spectrum is examined as a function of phase. The timing of the pretransit absorption is roughly consistent with previous results for metal absorption in WASP-12b, and the level of the Na i absorption is consistent with a previous tentative detection. No absorption is seen in the control line of Ca i at λ6122. We discuss in particular whether or not the WASP-12b Hα absorption signal is of circumplanetary origin—an interpretation that is bolstered by the pre- and post-transit evidence—which would make it one of only a small number of detections of circumplanetary Hα absorption in an exoplanet to date, the most well-studied being HD 189733b. We further discuss the notable differences between the HD 189733 and WASP-12 systems and the implications for a physical understanding of the origin of the absorption.
De la biomasse à la bioéconomie, une stratégie énergétique pour l’Afrique ?
Authors: Louvel Roland , de Gromard Christian
Published: September 2018

La biomasse occupe une place importante dans les bilans énergétiques des pays d’Afrique subsaharienne – principalement sous forme de bois de feu. Néanmoins, cette ressource pourrait être mieux mise en valeur. Les analyses et les discours en reconnaissent la nécessité mais, dans les faits, cette orientation peine à se concrétiser. Pourquoi cette énergie reste-t-elle si peu valorisée ? Après avoir recensé les freins à l’essor des bioénergies, le présent article s’intéresse à la modernisation des filières traditionnelles et au déploiement de filières avancées en Afrique, ainsi qu’à leur place comme levier des transitions énergétiques et écologiques qui s’imposent aux pays africains. Si les plans biomasse sont à adapter à chacun des pays, l’objectif est le même : ne plus dépendre des énergies fossiles et lutter contre le changement climatique, en préservant le patrimoine naturel des écosystèmes.
L’évaluation des politiques publiques
Authors: Duran Patrice
Published: September 2018

La thématique de l’évaluation des politiques publiques occupe une bonne place depuis les années 1980 sur l’agenda de recherche comme sur l’agenda politique. Une telle observation est pourtant paradoxale, dans la mesure où tout le monde s’accorde sur le fait que la situation française est marquée par une institutionnalisation difficile de l’évaluation des politiques publiques qui fait de cette dernière une activité faiblement identifiée, insuffisamment systématisée et dont les résultats sont généralement sous-utilisés [1]. Le bilan des dernières années, en dépit d’un affichage ambitieux allant de la Révision générale des politiques publiques (RGPP) à la Modernisation de l’action publique (MAP), est plutôt mitigé, en tout cas « pas à la hauteur des ambitions », comme le notent des observateurs attentifs [2].
Une contribution de la sociologie de l’action publique à l’évaluation de processus
Authors: Bergeron Henri , Hassenteufel Patrick
Published: September 2018

La sociologie de l’action publique, qui renvoie à des approches partagées entre sociologues et politistes, occupe une place marginale dans l’évaluation des politiques publiques en France. Les raisons de cette situation relèvent de dynamiques à la fois cognitives et institutionnelles. Pourtant, cette sociologie permet la réalisation d’évaluations de processus, dont l’objectif principal est de comprendre la dynamique des interactions entre acteurs et institutions dans le cadre de la mise en œuvre des politiques publiques. Une telle démarche, complémentaire notamment avec les évaluations expérimentales et les évaluations d’impact, apparaît pertinente du fait du développement de « politiques d’organisation » dont l’objectif central est de développer la coopération et la coordination entre acteurs et entre institutions, et de permettre ainsi la prise en charge d’enjeux transversaux d’action publique. À travers trois exemples d’évaluations de politiques publiques, il s’agit de montrer que l’évaluation des processus de mise en œuvre de ces politiques publiques d’organisation est de facto une évaluation de l’efficacité : une mesure du résultat qu’ont ces organisations, eu égard aux objectifs spécifiques qui leur ont été assignés (coordination et coopération).
Au théâtre d’Adam Smith
Authors: Bacot Jean-François
Published: September 2018

Comment, sans la réduire à des slogans inconsistants, élargir la réception d’une pensée complexe ayant introduit, il y a deux siècles et demi, un nouveau cadre d’analyse toujours aussi présent que controversé ? Une écriture théâtrale originale partant à la recherche d’Adam Smith (1723-1790) nous en offre la féconde tentative.
L’emploi accompagné ou la restauration de l’espoir
Authors: Grange Stéphane
Published: September 2018

L’association Messidor a décidé dès 2011 d’expérimenter l’emploi accompagné, après des échanges avec Bernard Pachoud qui soulignait la convergence d’objectif de cette pratique et de celle des ESAT de transition. Dès le premier exercice en 2012 en Haute-Savoie, cette expérimentation fondée sur le modèle IPS s’est avérée satisfaisante, avec un taux moyen d’insertion à un an d’environ 50% des personnes accompagnées. Les années suivantes, Messidor a développé, dans les départements où l’association est implantée, des dispositifs d’emploi accompagné, qui sont venus compléter la palette de services proposés aux personnes accompagnées et aux entreprises. Les résultats obtenus, restant satisfaisants et stables, confirment la pertinence de cette approche. Nous évoquons dans cet article notre posture auprès des personnes avec un handicap psychique, souhaitant intégrer le marché de l’emploi sans la transition par l’ESAT et nous nous interrogerons sur les pistes d’optimisation de la mise en œuvre de cette nouvelle pratique.
CFEA (Collectif France Emploi Accompagné) : construire, fortifier et amplifier
Authors: Gallois Jérôme
Published: September 2018

Résumé : Comme dans d’autres pays européens, l’emploi accompagné a été expérimenté en France dès les années 90. Mais il a fallu attendre 2016 pour qu’il trouve son propre cadre règlementaire et que se concrétise un plan de mise en œuvre nationale. Après deux ans d’un travail de co-construction avec les pouvoirs publics et les financeurs, le Collectif France Emploi Accompagné partage sa vision de ce lancement et trace les chantiers à venir pour soutenir et amplifier le développement de l’emploi accompagné en France.
Measles in Children
Authors: Khan Leah
Published: September 2018

Measles, which until recently had been a rare disease in the United States, is re-emerging in our communities due to a combination of increased global mobility and decreased vaccinations across the country. As providers, we need to reacquaint ourselves with this disease so that we may diagnose it as well as educate our patients on how to prevent it. With public resistance to vaccinations on the rise, it is also important to be prepared to answer questions about the measles vaccine, its efficacy, and its side effects. By being educated ourselves, we will be able to educate our communities and help keep illnesses like measles at bay.

[
Pediatr Ann.
2018;47(9):e340–e344.]
Uma vocação para durar: estratégias discursivas e agências imperiais nos anos 1950
Authors: Abrantes Carla Susana Alem
Published: September 2018

O presente artigo analisa discursos e agências que sustentaram o processo de dominação colonial em Angola nos anos 1950 tomando como base o saber colonial. Situando-o como prática discursiva, esse saber será vislumbrado com base em narrativas originadas em uma formação especializada oferecida em Lisboa para profissionais da gestão colonial. Da descrição e análise antropológica dos trabalhos finais de alunos, localizam-se estratégias discursivas que i) tomaram os africanos como trabalhadores que não correspondiam a um ideal, ii) ampliaram classificações sociais consideradas um “problema” para a administração, para além da “questão indígena” e iii) compartilharam um Estado imaginado em uma relação de dependência e, portanto, responsável pela administração de populações merecedoras de seus cuidados. Percorrem-se os lugares sociais dos textos escritos no ensino superior de administração colonial para uma compreensão das configurações sociais envolvidas no desenvolvimento de saberes administrativos projetados para territórioslongínquosnadécadade1950. Com esse microuniverso, delineiam-se as bases para diferenciações entre “nós” e “eles”, os seus efeitos assimiladores e homogeneizadores, e os pressupostos e condições de possibilidade para o exercício de uma vocação imperial.
Assimilados, régulos, Homens Novos, moçambicanos genuínos: a persistência da exclusão em Moçambique
Authors: Farré Albert
Published: September 2018

Independentemente do regime político, a exclusão social tem sido uma constante em Moçambique. O artigo propõe uma análise das categorias sociais desenvolvidas pelo colonialismo português nos inícios do século XX, e do seu percurso através dos diferentes debates e projetos políticos que os moçambicanos viveram, tanto durante o período colonial como depois da independência. O artigo procura explicar por que categorias tipicamente coloniais, como régulo ou indígena, reapareceram nos debates de finais do século XX, em pleno processo de transição para a democracia e o capitalismo.
Religión tradicional y colonización: una aproximación a la visión francesa sobre la sociedad tradicional de los joola de la Baja Casamance
Authors: Tomàs Jordi
Published: September 2018

Este artigo apresenta a visão do governo colonial francês sobre a religião tradicional joola e as autoridades tradicionais da Baixa-Casamança. Desde o início da colonização da região, no fim do século XIX, os franceses não tiveram uma visão homogênea sobre a cultura dos Joola. Enquanto para alguns representantes da administração francesa os Joola eram um povo selvagem, o qual devia ser civilizado, para outros, os Joola do Sul do Rio Casamança eram inteligentes e permeáveis às novidades que aportava a dominação colonial.
Jovens “egressas” de serviços de acolhimento : a virada no jogo das relações de parentesco
Authors: Rifiotis Fernanda Cruz
Published: September 2018

No artigo, analiso as maneiras como jovens egressas de serviços de acolhimento institucional vivenciam suas relações de parentesco. Para além dos desdobramentos da experiência de institucionalização sobre as relações de parentesco, pretendo pensar no que tenho chamado de “virada no jogo das relações de parentesco”. Com essa expressão, procuro mostrar que não se trata de reconfiguração, transformação ou mudança nas relações parentais, mas sim de uma “virada”. Esta remete a uma inversão no curso das relações parentais e, ainda mais, permite demarcar uma “quebra de expectativa”, por parte das jovens, sobre o que deveria constituir e fortalecer tais relações, ou seja, sobre as maneiras de realizar o parentesco. A análise tem como base uma etnografia realizada entre 2010 e 2013 sobre a desinstitucionalização de jovens que, sob medida de proteção, passaram parte da sua infância e adolescência afastadas do convívio familiar.