bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Machine Learning Algorithms to a Well Defined Clinical Problem: Liver Disease
Authors: Takkar Sakshi , Singh Aman , Pandey Babita
Published: July 2017

Liver diseases represent a major health burden worldwide. Machine learning (ML) algorithms have been extensively used to diagnose liver disease. This study accordingly aims to employ various individual and integrated ML algorithms on distinct liver disease datasets for evaluating the diagnostic performances, to integrate dimensionality reduction method with the ML algorithms for analyzing variation in results, to find the best classification model and to analyze the merits and demerits of these algorithms. KNN and PCA-KNN emerged to be the top individual and integrated models. The study also concluded that one specific algorithm can't show best results for all types of datasets and integrated models not always perform better than the individuals. It is observed that no algorithm is perfect and performance of an algorithm totally depends on the dataset type and structure, its number of observations, its dimensions and the decision boundary.
Robustness of US Economy and Energy Supply/Demand Fluctuations
Authors: Aslani Alireza , Niknejad Morteza , Maghami Amin
Published: July 2017

Energy has a strategic role in social and economic development of the countries. Due to the high dependency of energy supply on fossil fuels, fluctuations in prices and supply have macro/micro-economics effects for both energy exporters and importers. Therefore, understanding economic stability based on energy market changes is an important subject for policy makers and researchers. The US, as the first energy consumer in the world, is an interesting country to analyze the relationships of economics robustness with fossil fuel economic-fluctuations. While the country has one of the pioneers in domestic energy utilization, the competitiveness of the country is highly dependent on energy prices. In this paper, the researchers investigate the effects of energy changes on the economics of the US. First, the impact of oil price on macro-economic parameters is discussed. After that, the main issues related to energy economics including resilience of the energy sector, energy policies, economics analysis of the energy sector, electricity markets are discussed.
Multi-Input Single-Output State Space for Hybrid Power System Approach Using PEMFC
Authors: Sami Slama , Nasri Sihem , Zafar Bassam , Cherif Adnane
Published: July 2017

This paper presents the utilization of an Ultra-capacitor as an auxiliary power source in a hybrid power system, composed of a Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) as a main energy source. The PEMFC source may not be sufficient to satisfy the power required, especially, the peak demand periods. So, we use an Ultra-Capacitor (UCap) because it offers a very fast power response and a high specific power. In addition, the UCap can round off the slowdown of the main source output power to produce the effectiveness and performance characteristics needed to a variable load. A regulation for the PEMFC and the UCap was given. Furthermore, a Power Management Unit (PMU) is proposed in order to reach the good functioning of the system. The analysis and the evaluation of the PMU is performed through simulation results to verify the reliability and the effectiveness of the proposed system using Matlab/Simulink environment.
An Empirical Result Analysis of Dynamic Weighted Live Migration Mechanism for Load Balancing in Cloud Computing
Authors: Tiwari Pradeep Kumar , Joshi Sandeep
Published: July 2017

Load management of resources during high load demand managed by load management mechanism. An efficacious resource management algorithm effectively manages the load imbalance. Virtual Machine (VM) migration policy can maximize the throughput of the Cloud. Overloaded User Base (UB) high resource request increases the waiting time of the task and decreases the throughput. Task migration from high loaded VM to low loaded VM help to decrease the queue size and increase the throughput of the system. Effective resource management mechanism improves the performance and reduces the service level agreement (SLA) violations. Although researchers did the lot of work to manage load imbalance, but still need improvement. In this paper, proposed Dynamic weighted Live Migration (DWLM) Load balancing algorithm to manage the load imbalance problem. The proposed experiment result compares with another two algorithms. DWLM gives the better experiment results in Throughput, Migration time, Scalability and Fault Tolerance matrices.
Forecasting of Electricity Demand by Hybrid ANN-PSO Models
Authors: Anand Atul , Suganthi L.
Published: July 2017

Developing economies need to invest in energy projects. Because the gestation period of the electric projects is high, it is of paramount importance to accurately forecast the energy requirements. In the present paper, the future energy demand of the state of Tamil Nadu in India, is forecasted using an artificial neural network (ANN) optimized by particle swarm optimization (PSO) and by General Algorithm (GA). Hybrid ANN Models have the potential to provide forecasts that perform well compared to the more traditional modelling approaches. The forecasted results obtained using the hybrid ANN-PSO models are compared with those of the ARIMA, hybrid ANN-GA, ANN-BP and linear models. Both PSO and GA have been developed in linear and quadratic forms and the hybrid ANN models have been applied to five-time series. Amongst all the hybrid ANN models, ANN-PSO models are the best fit models in all the time series based on RMSE and MAPE.
An ‘Amuse-Bouche at Best'
Authors: Moody Paul
Published: July 2017

Much has been written about the function of narrative in virtual reality (VR) productions (Aylett & Louchart, 2003; Aylett et al, 2005; Ryan, 2001; 2005; 2008; 2009), but the role of the audience, and the relative degree of control that they have over the content, has led some scholars to believe that there is an ontological problem with describing VR in narrative terms. This article investigates some of these assumptions, via an analysis of an undertheorised aspect of VR that has emerged in recent years – the 360° film. It argues that 360° film represents a much more important aspect of VR than has been previously recognised. In so doing, the article establishes this medium as an important field of study, and argues that ultimately, it will be the commercial infrastructure for this content which will define the parameters of immersive storytelling.
Using Key Performance Indicators to Reduce Perceived Perioperative Complexity and Improve Patient Workflow
Authors: Ryan Jim , Doster Barbara , Daily Sandra , Lewis Carmen
Published: July 2017

This study examines the development and use of balanced scorecard metrics as key performance indicators within each stage of the perioperative process to enable business process management across the entire process to gauge performance and target improvement opportunities. The identification of existing limitations, potential capabilities, and the subsequent contextual understanding are contributing factors toward perioperative improvement. This paper identifies how dynamic technological activities of analysis, evaluation, and synthesis applied to internal and external organizational data can highlight complex relationships within integrated hospital processes to address root causes rather than symptoms and ultimately yield improved capabilities. This case study investigates how integrated information systems can identify, qualify, and quantify perioperative performance indicators to measure improvement based on a 157-month longitudinal study of a large, 1,157 registered-bed teaching hospital. The theoretical and practical implications and/or limitations of this study's results are also discussed with respect to practitioners and researchers alike.
Participant Perspectives on Benefits and Challenges of Engaging in an Online Pain Self-Management Program
Authors: Wilson Marian , Shaw Michele R.
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this study was to evaluate participants' perspectives after engaging in an 8-week online pain self-management program. Unexplored qualitative data for this analysis were collected via secure online surveys distributed during a previously published randomized controlled trial. Participants for the present study were 47 adults prescribed opioid medicines for chronic pain. A qualitative descriptive approach using content analysis methods was used to identify common themes regarding online participation. Three themes described the benefits of the program and included: positive reframing, improved accountability, and feeling supported. Two themes described how participants would like to improve the program experience and included: ease of use and desire for personalizing. Participants' insights can assist health care providers and program developers in understanding how online programs may improve chronic disease self-management for a multitude of health problems.
The Effect of Flow Frequency on Internet Addiction to Different Internet Usage Activities
Authors: Yang Hui-Ling , Wu Wei-Pang
Published: July 2017

This study investigated the online flow frequency among college students in regard to different internet activities, and analyzed the effect of flow frequency on internet addiction. This study surveyed 525 undergraduate internet users in Taiwan by using convenience sampling to question participants. In this paper, analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to examine the differences in usage activity regarding the level of flow frequency. To test the effects of the flow frequency factor on perceived internet addiction, multiple regression analysis was performed for the constructs of internet addiction from different internet usage activities. The analytical results indicate that online gaming by undergraduates in Taiwan reporting higher level of flow frequency than their primary internet activities and their flow frequency of online gaming will predict internet addiction.
Perceived Factors Influencing Instructors' Use of E-Textbooks in Higher Education
Authors: Wang Sirui , Hartsell Taralynn
Published: July 2017

As a form of digital content, e-Textbooks make learning content portable, transferrable, and searchable. Such technology increases students' engagement in learning and make learning highly interactive. However, the adoption of using e-Textbooks in higher education is far from its confirmation stage. This study examines the relationship between perceived attributes of using e-Textbooks by instructors and their actual use of e-Textbooks in higher education. A survey study has been conducted to measure how instructors from public universities in colleges of education perceive using e-Textbooks in higher education. The findings suggest that instructors, institutions, and e-Textbooks publishers should work collaboratively to enhance the use of e-Textbooks in higher education.
Malware Methodologies and Its Future
Authors: Behera Chandan Kumar , Bhaskari D. Lalitha
Published: July 2017

Malware means any unwanted software that performs harmful actions or executes some tasks unauthorized. This includes all harmful programs like virus, worms, Trojan, rootkits, Botnets etc. The numbers of malwares rise exponentially with the increase of the use of digital media. With the enormous usage of internet world wide, the rate of cybercrimes has increased and giving life to many malwares in the cyber space. New technologies and skills should be developed and formulated to fight against malwares with the goals of automatic identification of malwares as well as their families. A lot of research is going on to combat the malwares, but still in vain. In order to design tools to fight against it, a systematic understanding is needed on its various types, behaviors along with different detection and analysis techniques. With all above, this paper summarizes a thorough information regarding malwares, their classification techniques, different obfuscation methods, packing and unpacking concepts along with particular tools.
Educated Physically Disabled Women in the Information and Communication Technology Sector
Authors: Mononen Jukka , Halonen Raija
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this study was to analyze how highly educated women with physical disability (WwPD) are employed and integrated in the information and communication technology (ICT) field as experienced by themselves. This question is important due to the lack of knowledge regarding the employment of highly educated WwPD in the ICT sector. An empirical study was carried out with the help of a qualitative research method that involved eight interviews. The study showed that disability has a significant impact when women choose the ICT sector for their studies. However, one of the significant findings was that the individuals characters matter the most.
Neural Networks and Statistical Analysis for Time and Cost Prediction Models of Urban Redevelopment Projects
Authors: Gkovedarou Maria , Aretoulis Georgios N.
Published: July 2017

Over the last few years, a plethora of public works have taken place, focusing towards urban renewal, in the greater Thessaloniki district. Municipality of Thessaloniki, provided data for twelve public projects of urban renewal. Mathematical models have been proposed for cost and time prediction based on regression analysis. Furthermore, the Fast Artificial Neural Network (FANN Tool) was applied, to predict the duration and the final cost of the project, using volume of earthwork, as input variable. Both approaches could facilitate project stakeholders, to forecast the projects' final delivery date and cost and provide early warnings for any deviation from the initial budget. The results indicate that neural networks perform better than regression analysis' models, in the case of urban renewal projects.
Understanding Parents' Intention to Use a Learning Community Management System in K-12 Schools
Authors: Demissie Dawit , Rorissa Abebe , Ayanso Anteneh
Published: July 2017

Information systems that facilitate communication among faculty, staff, and parents are increasingly being adopted by K–12 schools. Despite their promise, schools are resisting these systems. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) has been rarely tested to explain behavioral intention, acceptance, and sustained use of technology in the context of developing nations. We apply the UTAUT model to examine behavioral intention to use a learning community management system at a K-12 school in the Bahamas. Data were collected from 162 parents through a survey questionnaire. Results showed that facilitating conditions (FC), performance expectancy (PE), and effort expectancy (EE) are significantly related to behavioral intention. In addition, Age has a moderating role in PE and FC with respect to their effects on behavioral intention. Our findings extend the validation of the UTAUT model in different environments and may help educators, administrators, and policymakers implement meaningful ICT policies in line with their community's educational aspirations.
Can a Mobile Video Communication Improve Patient Safety in Prehospital Emergency Medicine?
Authors: Metelmann Camilla , Metelmann Bibiana
Published: July 2017

Patient safety is an integral part of medicine and efforts are made to further increase it. However, some areas of medicine are prone to limitations in patient safety; prehospital emergency medicine being one of them. Prehospital emergency medicine treats acute illnesses or life-threatening conditions, therefore affecting the entire population and having huge socioeconomic impact. Some of the factors threatening patient safety are inevitable. Emergencies are by definition time-critical, thus, requiring fast decision making and start of therapy. M-Health offers an opportunity to support this decision making. In this project, funded by the European Union, a mobile high-definition video-connection in real-time was used, to support emergency personnel at the emergency site by a remote expert. This video-communication could balance some factors threatening patient safety, which occur in prehospital emergency medicine.
The Potential of Mobile Health in Nursing
Authors: Kirschner Anne , Kirschner Stefanie , Seebauer Christian , Bethke Bedriska
Published: July 2017

Mobile information and communication technologies are increasingly used in nursing. In a new plasma-supported treatment for patients with chronic wounds in outpatient nursing settings, the LiveCity camera can be used as an innovative mobile communication technology. It enables rapid and high quality exchange of information between remotely located doctors and nursing staff. This procedure promises to deliver positive outcomes regarding the quality of the treatment and patient safety while avoiding additional hospitalisation and saving time and costs. This is achieved by rapidly confirming diagnoses and agreeing on a joint treatment appropriate for the current wound status. Thus, complications in wound healing can be promptly identified and countermeasures initiated through quick and easy access to medical and nursing expertise.
Application of Hydraulic Transformer on Energy Saving for Boom System of Hybrid Hydraulic Excavator
Authors: Yu Ying Xiao , Ahn Kyoung Kwan
Published: July 2017

Facing the energy crisis and environmental problems, saving energy of construction machinery, especially in the hydraulic excavator is very important. Regeneration of the potential energy is an effective solution to save energy. However, the conventional hybrid excavator can’t regenerate the potential energy. This paper proposes a new structure of boom system of hydraulic excavator as well as a control strategy. The focus of the paper is using hydraulic transformer to regenerate energy and reusing the regenerated energy. The simulation is carried out by the AMESim software. From the simulation results, this new system has a high efficiency for energy saving.
Dynamic Thermal-Structure Coupling Analysis and Experimental Study on Ball Screw Feed Drive System of Precision Machine Tools
Authors: Ma Chi , Yang Jun , Mei Xue Song , Zhao Liang , Shi Hu , Zhang Dong Sheng
Published: July 2017

To improve the simulation accuracy of the thermal characteristic of ball screw feed drive systems, a dynamic thermal-structure coupling model, which considered the effect of the thermal contact conductance (TCC) of the solid joint on the accuracy of simulation results, was proposed to conduct thermal characteristic analysis of ball screw feed drive systems. The predictive model for TCC was proposed based on the micro morphology description of rough surfaces and the contact load distribution of solid joints. Then, the dynamic thermal-structure model of the ball screw feed drive system was established. To validate the effectiveness of the dynamic thermal-structure coupling model, thermal characteristic experiments of the ball screw feed drive system were conducted under different feed rates. The results showed that the simulation accuracy of temperature field and axial thermal elongation can be improved from 65% to 87% and from 70% to 85%, respectively.
Simulations of Engagement Control in Actuated Dry-Clutch: Influence of Frictional Response of Facing Materials
Authors: Senatore Adolfo , D'Auria Carmine , Pisaturo Mario
Published: July 2017

This paper focuses on the simulation of clutch engagement behavior in automated manual transmissions (AMTs) to virtualize the vehicle start-up maneuver through implementation of the driveline model and the role of transmission control unit featuring different levels of knowledge regarding to clutch material frictional response. Simulation results underline the crucial requirement of accurate prediction of the frictional coefficient evolution in each clutch maneuver, particularly regarding to the interface temperature estimation to develop effective models and control algorithms.
Comparative Analysis of Flow Field in Mixed and Non Mixed Gas Electrochemical Machining for Aero-Engine Turbine Blade Cooling Holes
Authors: Li Zhing Yong , Wei Xiu Ting , Lu Wen Wen , Cui Qing Wei
Published: July 2017

By the cooling holes in aero-engine turbine blade as the research object, this study focuses on two kinds of ECM methods, which are mix gas added to the nonlinear electrolyte (NaNO3) and non-mixed gas. Mixed and non-mixed gas ECM experiments of turbine blade cooling holes were carried out respectively. The corresponding two-dimensional CAD model of cooling hole was constructed combined with the experimental data and theoretical analysis. Numerical simulation analysis was carried out of the flow field base on the above models by using the fluid dynamics analysis software FLUENT. The influence flow velocity and flow velocity distribution on the machining accuracy and efficiency of ECM were investigated in detail. The vortex zone distribution of gas-NaNO3 mixed phase flow field and single NaNO3 solution flow field was analyzed qualitatively. The simulation results indicated that the flow velocity in the machining gap with mixed gas was significantly higher than the velocity during ECM process for cooling holes. The electrolytic products and heat were washed away completely, the electrolyte can be updated in time. Fluid vortex zone distribution was improved obviously, the flow field distribution became more uniform after mixed gas in ECM process. The machining accuracy and efficiency for cooling holes making may be improved greatly with gas mixed in electrolyte NaNO3.
Research on the Machining Error Control and Simulation of the Motor Frame in Vertical Lathe Machining
Authors: Wang Xin Rong , Zhang Xia , Lu Huai Zhi , Wang Dong
Published: July 2017

It's commonly existed in electric machine industry that the coaxiality of processing the rabbets of two ends of the motor frame is hard to guarantee, which is studied in this paper. An analysis of the causes of the coaxiality error of the rabbets of two ends of the motor frame in vertical lathe machining is made and strategies are proposed to improve the machining precision of the motor frame. Based on mode analysis of the motor frame in vertical lathe machining by ANSYS finite element software, the reasonable clamping method is determined and new process plan and technological equipment are designed for machining of the motor frame. The research would demonstrate great significance in improving the performance of the motor, prolonging the service life and reducing the production cost.
Numerical Optimization of Shrinkage and Warpage on the Injection Molding Process Parameters of Electrical Connector
Authors: Wang Yun , Chen Li Yu , Yang Xia Ming , Zhao Yan , Xu Zhen Ying , Wang Xue Peng
Published: July 2017

Integrated with orthogonal design method and numerical simulation, injection molding process of the Y-type electrical connectors was conducted to study the influence of process parameters on volume shrinkage rate and maximum warpage, which are regarded as product quality indices. The multi-indices valuation model for the main influencing factors of the process is developed. The influencing sensitivity to the multi-objective of the processing parameters, such as melt temperature, mold temperature, injection time and holding pressure, is determined by range analysis. Through analyzing the diagrams of influential factors, the optimized process parameter diagram is obtained and verified by simulation. The optimum parameters minimizing the warpage defect and shrinkage are: melt temperature (528K), mold temperature (338K), ﬁlling time (0.6s), holding pressure (100%) and holding time (10s). The results show that it is effective to balance the impact of process parameters on the shrinkage and warpage. The work can provide optimal design and process reference for the quality control and assembly precision.
High Performance Electrodes for All-Solid-State Supercapacitor Prepared by Using E-Jet Deposition Technique
Authors: Liang Jun Sheng , Xu Shuang Chao , Ren Tong Qun , Wang Da Zhi
Published: July 2017

Electrohydrodynamic jet (E-jet) deposition technique was used to prepare thin film porous electrodes for all-solid-state electrochemical supercapacitors. The performance of thin film graphene/PANI electrodes separately prepared by E-jet deposition and brush-coating were comparatively studied in supercapacitors. Results show that the specific capacitance of the supercapacitor by E-jet deposition can reach 228F·g-1 at 0.5A·g-1and remain 92% after 1000 charge-discharge cycles. Compared to those electrodes made by traditional brush coating techniques, the capacitance and cycling stability of the supercapacitors in this work were respectively increased by 11% and 7%, means that E-jet deposition can be an ideal technique for fabrication of high performance supercapacitor electrodes.
Electrohydrodynamic Atomization of Graphene Nano-Suspension
Authors: Wang Da Zhi , Feng Li , Wei Yun Long , Cao Jia Chang , Chen Xin Yu , Yu Feng
Published: July 2017

In this paper, graphene nanosuspension was spray deposited using electrohydrodynamic atomization (EHDA) technique, and the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) was used as the substrate during the EHDA process. The effect of the PDMS substrate before and after oxygen plasma treatment on the characteristics of EHDA was examined. A cone-jet mode of the EHDA of graphene nanosuspension was obtained using the oxygen plasma treated PDMS substrate. In addition graphene films were deposited on the oxygen plasma treated PDMS at different working distances. The lowest sheet resistance of the graphene films is 127Ω·sq-1. Furthermore, graphene lines at the range of 30μm-170μm were fabricated using the template assisted EHDA deposition method.
Interactive Experience across Modern Age and Tradition: Application of Arduino in Shadow Play
Authors: Yin Kun , Ge Yun Hao , Liu He Shan , Yin Yong Quan
Published: July 2017

Shadow play is a characteristic traditional art form throughout Eastern countries. However, it is currently in decline due to diverse reasons. This study explores a new form of Arduino based interactive experience between shadow play puppets and audience. Participants were able to manipulate the shadow play puppets via TouchOSC (Open Sound Control) on their mobile phones. The mobile phone controlled a Single-Chip Micro-computer (SCM) via WIFI, which in turn controlled steering engines connected to the shadow play puppets. The extent of action conformity between two players was evaluated via computer, and highlighted with a number of turn-on-lights. This system offers participants a way to experience the traditional shadow play art via modern communication tools, and introduce a novel interactive experience.
Research on Distribution of Internal Load of Tapered Roller Bearing Used in Axle Box of High Speed Train
Authors: Wei Yan Gang , Zhang Guo Liang , Xu Kai
Published: July 2017

Three methods to calculate distribution of internal load in tapered roller bearing are introduced in the present paper. Distributions of internal load in tapered roller bearing used in axle box of High Speed Train have been calculated by continuous function model (conventional method), discrete function model method and finite element method according to the internal load distribution theory of rolling bearing. The results of three methods show that the pattern of the internal load distributions is same, but the accuracy is not same. The accuracy of radial load of the bearing with finite element method is highest, the accuracy with discrete model method is higher and the accuracy with discrete model method is lowest. The discrete function model is not only with the higher accuracy but also convenient to be used widely in practice through the program of dichotomie numerical method.
Optimization of Gear Modification for Boom and Crowing Mechanism Used in Large Mining Excavator
Authors: He Wei Dong , Zhang Ying Hui , Zhang Fu Lai , Zhou Feng , Hou Geng
Published: July 2017

Aiming at the problems of pitting, shafts broken and so on in the process of the use of boom and crowning mechanism gear box of a large mining excavator, research found that the key problems of broken shafts and the large bearings clearance are caused by excessive shafts and gear teeth deformation, which result in serious corrosion occurred by partial load and serious bearing damage.
Theoretical and Experimental Study on Mechanical Force of Transformer Coil Short Circuit
Authors: Zhao Jing , Li Ying , Wang Shi Jie , Yan Ming Yin
Published: July 2017

As one of the most important components of transmission equipment in electric power field, power transformer bears the important task of energy conversion, power distribution and energy transfer. Because generated a huge force in transformer winding by its interior circuit excitation, it would be taken place easily to distortion, collapse and other damage of its structure, which brings a large safe and reliable problem. The lack of mechanical strength of the coil, which cannot withstand the sudden short-circuit current impact, led to the break of insulating layers, is one of the main causes in transformer failure. In this paper, it is discussed that theoretical and experimental study on mechanical force of transformer coil short circuit. According to the structural mechanics, the calculation of the contacted pressure between the coils is attained by building the contacted model. And the experimental system is been designed, which has a servo control system. Compared the theoretical and the Experimental data, the best accurate computed method for contacted pressure is obtained. It is helpful to improve the resistance ability for short circuit of transformer, and provide guarantee for the safe operation of the transformer.
Synchronous Measurement of Three-Dimensional Deformations Using Tri-Channel Spatial-Carrier Digital Speckle Pattern Interferometry
Authors: Fang Yao , Wu Si Jin , Yang Lian Xiang
Published: July 2017

Spatial-carrier digital speckle pattern interferometry (SC-DSPI) has proven to be a competitive tool for full-field deformation measurement. Comparing with traditional phase-shifting digital speckle pattern interferometry, SC-DSPI has the advantage of rapid measurement which guarantees that dynamic deformations can be precisely measured. In this article, a tri-channel SC-DSPI that measures three-dimensional deformations synchronously is introduced. Measuring algorithm as well as optical arrangement is described in detail. Experiments are carried out to verify the validity and evaluate the performance of the proposed technique.
Nonlinear Friction Compensation of a Flexible Robotic Joint with Harmonic Drive
Authors: Zeng Peng Fei , Jiang Ge Dong , Zou Chuang , Zhang Xian , Xie Cheng Xuan
Published: July 2017

To suppress the abrupt and unexpected turning velocity fluctuation of the industrial robot under the condition of trajectory tracking, a flexible robotic joint experimental setup with the harmonic drive was established. The measured friction with Stribeck effect and velocity were modeled by a simple polynomial fit method. Two friction compensation control strategies of feedforward and feedback were designed. The friction compensation experiments were carried out on the dSPACE system, the good restraint effect of fluctuation on the turning velocity was verified and the control accuracy of feedback compensation control strategy proved better.
Study on the Slip of Induction Motor in Gasoline Pumping System
Authors: Liu Ya Jun , Ye Jia Kun , Zhan Shu Yan , Xie Wen Hua
Published: July 2017

This paper aims to investigate the slip ratio of induction motor at different working condition of pumping gasoline. An experiment platform is set up to do the contrast experiment. The results show that a peak of slip ratio about 22% occurs at speed of 675r/min, when gasoline is pumped under the minimum opening of nozzle. But this phenomenon doesn’t appear at pumping testing fluid D80. The slip ratio of pumping testing fluid D80 is no more than 8%, while that of pumping gasoline is at the range of 9.5% to 22%. Though explanations are given to explain some phenomenon, the reason why a peak occurs at pumping gasoline needs more investigation.
A Novel Design of Musculoskeletal Bipedal Robot Applied with Bio-Inspired Elastic Actuation
Authors: He Fu Ben , Bortoletto Roberto , Liang Yan De , Pagello Enrico
Published: July 2017

A rigid actuation method does not allow a humanoid to flexibly compliant with the efforts needed to be exerted in a changing environment. Thus, starting from the studies developed in the biomechanical and biomimetic fields, this paper introduces a novel bipedal robot equipped with a musculoskeletal-like mechanism, in order to obtain the expected compliant locomotion. The robot’s structure consists of extended elastic actuators built from SEAs (Series Elastic Actuators), in order to realize the muscle-tendons like artifact. A novel design of bipedal robot has been built scaling it to a kid-size dimension. An efficient simulation of the robot has also been implemented using the OpenSim Simulator. The kinematics and dynamics of our bipedal model are described in equations. Furthermore, the control architecture has been designed based on a Fuzzy Control and a PID Control approach. Some experiments both on the real and the simulated robot are presented to evaluate the robot’s design and its performances.
Error Sensitivity Analysis of a Novel A/B Bi-Rotary Head
Authors: Fang Li Jin , Sun Long Fei
Published: July 2017

A novel A/B bi-rotary head is designed which can be used on five-axis machine centers. The motion of pitching and swing can be achieved by controlling the output angle and velocity of motors. Anti-backlash control method can be applied to eliminate the transmission backlash. The error sensitivity model is also established using matrix differential method, and the influence of internal errors on the integrated errors is obtained. The results show that the more sensitive errors can be identified from all errors which need to be controlled rationally.
A Simplified Self-Calibration Method for Cylindrical Grating
Authors: Zhang Wen Ying , Zhou Wei Hu , Lao Da Bao , Zhu Hao Ran
Published: July 2017

Cylindrical grating angle sensor is a common angle measuring device with high precision. Due to the reflecting arc surface of the cylindrical grating the effects of relative displacement of graduation line and gap variation will interact. Significant residual errors still exist even with high precision cylindrical grating and multiple reading heads around the scale disc .In this paper, based on the principle of circumference closure, the principle of self-calibration is deduced and analyzed in detail. The calibration curve is obtained by obtaining the deviation between the certain position and an ideal position of the graduation line position in real time. A simple self-calibration method of cylindrical grating is acquired. It can calibrate random errors and system errors with time and improve the angle measurement accuracy. The method has the advantages of simple structure and strong maneuverability, and provides technical means for the miniaturization and high precision of cylindrical grating.
Earthquakes of the St. Lawrence Valley between Montreal and Québec: focal depth determination from Regional Depth Phases for the magnitude 2.8 and larger earthquakes for the time period 1980-2014
Authors: Ma S , Lamontagne M
Published: July 2017

This Open File describes how the focal depths of 62 earthquakes with magnitude (MN) ? 2.8 were calculated with the Regional Depth Phase Method (RDPM). The earthquakes occurred between 1980 and 2014 in the St. Lawrence Valley between Montreal and Quebec City. Nine
of these 62 earthquakes are foreshocks, aftershocks or earthquake swarms. For the 53 independent events, more than 50% occurred between 10 and 15 km depth. Only 10% of the hypocentres are below 20 km, but that includes the two largest events of the period (MN 4.1 and 5.1). Shallow events
(depth less than 5 km) represent only 5% of all SLV events.
Othonna sonchifolia L. is an earlier name for Senecio cymbalarifolius L. (Asteraceae: Senecioneae)
Authors: Magoswana Luvo , Manning John C. , Magee Anthony R. , Boatwright James S.
Published: July 2017

Background: Ongoing systematic studies in the African flora necessitate periodic nomenclatural adjustments and corrections.Objectives: To effect requisite nomenclatural changes.Method: Relevant literature was surveyed and type material located and examined.Results: A nomenclatural correction is necessary in Othonna L. and Senecio L. (Asteraceae).Conclusions: Othonna sonchifolia L. is recognised as the earliest name for Senecio cymbalarifolius (L.) Less. and the new combination Senecio sonchifolius (L.) J.C. Manning Magoswana is provided for the species. Othonna cymbalarifolia is lectotypified and Senecio hastifolius (L.) Less. is reinstated from synonymy as a species distinct from S. sonchifolius.
The search for a method to unpack urban complexity: Case study of the City of Johannesburg
Authors: Ndhlovu Lewis , Smith Laila , Narsoo Stephen
Published: July 2017

Background: The City of Johannesburg (COJ) provides services to approximately 5 million people; yet the elements of monitoring and evaluation remain a missing link in the design and implementation of programmes. This was the case even after the introduction of the monitoring and evaluation framework in 2012. This case study is filling an empirical gap.Objectives: The aim of this study was to understand the policies, practices and use of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) in tracking the performance of the City towards meeting its long-term developmental plans.Method: A mixed methods approach was used to gather quantitative data from 54 senior M&E officials. This was complemented with qualitative data drawn from in-depth interviews and focus group discussions conducted during three workshops with M&E officials.Results: The study reveal a number of weaknesses: poor integration of M&E practices in planning, budgeting, service delivery and policy development oversight. The inter-governmental institutional environment and various committees and utility boards has resulted in extensive resources being devoted to compliance reporting. Consequently, the foundations for building an evaluation system have been neglected.Conclusion: The five-dimension complexity model was found to be a useful organising framework for effectively evaluating the city’s M&E capacity. These findings form the first phase of an intervention that will inform the second phase targeted at building the foundations for a city-wide evaluation system.
Guidelines for support to mothers of sexually abused children in North-West province
Authors: Masilo Gaboipolelwe M. , Davhana-Maselesele Mashudu
Published: July 2017

Background: South Africa is reported to have the highest rate of sexual assault in the world with over 40% of cases occurring among children. Children who are sexually abused have support programmes and policies to assist them in coping, but there are no support programmes for mothers or caretakers. Caretakers need support for themselves and assisting them will incrementally benefit children under their care. Often mothers of these children experience shock, anger, disbelief and suffer secondary trauma such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following their children’s sexual abuse disclosure and yet there are no guidelines for support to these mothers within North-West province (NWP)Objectives: The study seeks to develop guidelines for support to mothers of sexually abused children in NWP.Methods: Concurrent convergence triangulation mixed method design was employed in this study. The population consisted of mothers of sexually abused children (SAC) (n = 17 participants for the qualitative component and n = 180 participants for the quantitative component). A sample of mothers of SAC was purposely selected.Results: The participants indicated significant levels of depression because of lack of support by stakeholders. Guidelines for support to assist mothers cope with their secondary trauma were developed based on the literature review, study findings as well as an ecological model of the impact of sexual assault on women’s mental health. The results also showed extreme PTSD (47.8%), little support (38.8%), not coping (76.1%) and depression (36.1%).Conclusion: The stakeholders should consider a positive approach to support mothers whose children are sexually abused.
The riverbank, the seashore and the wilderness: Miriam, liberation and prophetic witness against empire
Authors: Boesak Allan A.
Published: July 2017

This article examines the manner and method of resistance against patriarchal power and privilege. Two types of power are contrasted. One is the violent, war-like and hierarchical power of an empire, and the other is the faithful resistance of Israel’s prophets. A further distinction is made between violent male power and non-violent female power. It is argued that Miriam was a prophet of the people and her prophetic witness is an example of the power and outcome of non-violent resistance. Her theology explicitly and specifically praises God not as a warrior. Hers is not a muscular, masculine God whose power seeks to match the power of empire. Her God has a power that through radical love for a slave people and taking sides with the enslaved overcomes the power of the slaveholder. In her theology, Miriam recalls the God of the exodus, who begins the acts of liberation with the women, to whose faithfulness, courage and defiant obedience, the freedom of the people is entrusted. From a feminist perspective it is argued that this style of non-violent, faithful prophetic witness has a greater impact than violent resistance associated with an empire-like power. It is suggested that black liberation theology should adopt this paradigm in its witness of and resistance against oppression.
Dynamics of agricultural land and the risk to food insecurity in the Niayes region of Diamniadio, West Senegal
Authors: Diack Mateugue , Loum Macoumba , Guisse Abdoulaye , Sane Mamadou B.
Published: July 2017

Food security is a serious challenge facing West African countries because most croplands are being degraded. Consequently, agricultural production is being exceeded by rapid population growth. This study relates the dynamics of agricultural lands to the level of capacity building for resilience in response to low productivity and hence to food insecurity in the Niayes region, Senegal, where lands are presumably suitable for crop production. Factors influencing changes in surface areas, soil quality and level of resilience were examined using quantitative and qualitative research methods. Findings showed strong relationships between a significant decrease (65.25% – 35.54%) in productive agricultural lands with a range of soil physical and chemical properties (clay to loamy soil texture; soil pH: 7.0–8.0; soil organic carbon [SOC]: 5.0 g kg−1 – 25.0 g kg−1; effective cations exchangeable capacity [ECEC]: 4.5 Cmol kg−1 – 39.0 Cmol kg−1; cation exchange capacity [CEC]: 8.0 Cmol kg−1 – 34.0 Cmol kg−1) and food insecurity levels. In the last 5 years, urbanisation and industrialisation processes have reduced the farmlands by about 26.51% through uncontrolled construction of buildings and companies, leading to a disappearance of lands. Such dynamics raises the issue of a risk to food security in a region that usually provides more than 70% of fruits and vegetables demand for consumption. These results underline a need for a greater understanding of resilience for a better management design with a risk prevention plan to ensure food security.
Geographic information systems-based expert system modelling for shoreline sensitivity to oil spill disaster in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Lawal Olanrewaju , Oyegun Charles U.
Published: July 2017

In the absence of adequate and appropriate actions, hazards often result in disaster. Oil spills across any environment are very hazardous; thus, oil spill contingency planning is pertinent, supported by Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) mapping. However, a significant data gap exists across many low- and middle-income countries in aspect of environmental monitoring. This study developed a geographic information system (GIS)-based expert system (ES) for shoreline sensitivity to oiling. It focused on the biophysical attributes of the shoreline with Rivers State as a case study. Data on elevation, soil, relative wave exposure and satellite imageries were collated and used for the development of ES decision rules within GIS. Results show that about 70% of the shoreline are lined with swamp forest/mangroves/nympa palm, and 97% have silt and clay as dominant sediment type. From the ES, six ranks were identified; 61% of the shoreline has a rank of 9 and 19% has a rank of 3 for shoreline sensitivity. A total of 568 km out of the 728 km shoreline is highly sensitive (ranks 7–10). There is a clear indication that the study area is a complex mixture of sensitive environments to oil spill. GIS-based ES with classification rules for shoreline sensitivity represents a rapid and flexible framework for automatic ranking of shoreline sensitivity to oiling. It is expected that this approach would kick-start sensitivity index mapping which is comprehensive and openly available to support disaster risk management around the oil producing regions of the country.
A socio-historical analysis of the sections in the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa from 1908 to the present
Authors: Kgatle Mookgo S.
Published: July 2017

The article presents a socio-historical analysis of the sections in the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) of South Africa from 1908 to the present. In order to achieve this, the article studies the relationship between the South African social politics and the ecclesiastical politics. It demonstrates how the AFM got divided into sections. The sections are the white, mixed race, Indian and black sections. The four sections in the AFM were not equal in power and responsibilities. The white section of the church was the major and domineering section of the AFM. Although other sections like mixed race and Indian were also inferior to the white section, the black section was the most inferior and marginalised section. The article also studies how the divisions in the AFM were addressed and solved. The purpose is to demonstrate how the church that was once divided into sections according to racial groups was able to move into unity.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This article makes a valuable scholarly contribution to the ongoing research on the history of the AFM in the field of church history. It juxtaposes church history with the problems facing society today like racial segregation and how such problems can be addressed and solved.
Precise U-Pb ages for the cogenetic alkaline Mount LaTour and peraluminous Mount Elizabeth granites of the South Nepisiguit River Plutonic Suite, northern New Brunswick, Canada
Authors: Azadbakht Zeinab , McFarlane Christopher E.M. , Lentz David R.
Published: July 2017

The South Nepisiguit River Plutonic Suite consists of various phases of felsic to mafic plutonic rocks of early Devonian age in northern New Brunswick. The felsic portion of this intrusive suite includes a large pluton of homogeneous, peraluminous biotite granite (the Mount Elizabeth Granite), which is flanked on its western side by the alkaline Mount LaTour Granite. New in situ and mineral separate U-Pb Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectro-metry analyses of monazite and zircon grains from both sides of the suite define a crystallization age of 417.3 ± 0.96 Ma for the Mount Elizabeth Granite and 417.7 ± 4.4 Ma for the Mount LaTour Granite. The new data confirm previous geochronological work and indicate a close temporal relationship between these felsic phases of this plutonic suite.