bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Copper Nanowires as Reusable High-Performance Transparent Conductive Electrode
Authors: Hashimi Aina Shasha , Ginting Riski Titian , Chin Siew Xian , Lau Kam Sheng , Mohd Nohan Muhammad Amirul Nazhif , Zakaria Sarani , Yap Chi Chin , Chia Chin Hua
Published: May 2019

We report the microwave synthesis of copper nanowires (Cu NWs) by using alkylamine-mediated approach. Cu NWs with aspect ratio ~612 was successfully synthesized at 120 °C for 4 h. Purification process of Cu NWs was done via a simple and fast centrifugation method using water-hydrophobic organic solvent system. The effect of purification on the performance of the fabricated transparent conductive electrode (TCE) films was investigated. Purified Cu NWs TCE showed a low sheet resistance of 35 Ω/sq with high transparency of 81% (at λ550 nm). Glacial acetic acid (GAA) treatment was applied to the Cu NWs films to improve their conductivity and transmittance. The high conductivity of the Cu NWs TCE can be easily restored by using a quick GAA treatment.
Designation of a neotype for Enteromius pallidus (Smith, 1841), an endemic cyprinid minnow from the Cape Fold Ecoregion, South Africa
Authors: Martin Melissa B. , Chakona Albert
Published: May 2019

Enteromiuspallidus was described by Smith in 1841 without a designated type specimen for the species. Herein, we designate a specimen from the Baakens River system as a neotype for E.pallidus and provide a thorough description for this species to facilitate ongoing taxonomic revisions of southern African Enteromius. Enteromiuspallidus can be distinguished from the other minnows in the “goldie barb group” by having an incomplete lateral line, lack of distinct chevron or tubular markings around lateral line pores, absence of a distinct lateral stripe, absence of wavy parallel lines along scale rows and lack of black pigmentation around the borders of the scales. We provide mtDNA COI sequences for the neotype and an additional specimen from the Baakens River as DNA barcodes of types and topotypes are a fundamental requirement for further taxonomic studies.
Taxonomic status and behavioural documentation of the troglobiont Lithobius matulici (Myriapoda, Chilopoda) from the Dinaric Alps: Are there semiaquatic centipedes in caves?
Authors: Dányi László , Balázs Gergely , Tuf Ivan Hadrián
Published: May 2019

Lithobiusmatulici Verhoeff, 1899 is redescribed based on type material and newly collected specimens. Strandiolusjugoslavicus Hoffer, 1937, described from another cave in the same region in Bosnia and Hercegovina, is presented as a junior subjective synonym of L.matulici (syn. nov.). L.matulici is shown to be most closely related to Lithobiusremyi Jawłowski, 1933, type species of the subgenus Thracolithobius Matic, 1962. The completeness of the chitin-lines on the forcipular coxosternite is discussed as a promising character for interspecific differentiation within Lithobiomorpha. Documentation of hitherto unknown semiaquatic behaviour in L.matulici and other cave-dwelling centipede species from Herzegovinian-, Montenegrin- and Pyrenean caves is presented.
Utilising pair programming to enhance the performance of slow-paced students on introductory programming
Authors: Ayub Mewati , Karnalim Oscar , Risal Risal , Senjaya Wenny Franciska , Wijanto Maresha Caroline
Published: May 2019

Due to its high failure rate, Introductory Programming has become a main concern. One of the main issues is the incapability of slow-paced students to cope up with given programming materials. This paper proposes a learning technique which utilizes pair programming to help slow-paced students on Introductory Programming; each slow-paced student is paired with a fast-paced student and the latter is encouraged to teach the former as a part of  grading system. An evaluation regarding that technique has been conducted on three undergraduate classes from an Indonesian university for the second semester of 2018. According to the evaluation, the use of pair programming may help both slow-paced and fast-paced students. Nevertheless, it may not significantly affect individual academic performance.
The size of the area affected by earthquake induced rockfalls: Comparison of the 1998 Krn Mountains (NW Slovenia) earthquake (Mw 5.6) with worldwide data
Authors: Gosar Andrej
Published: May 2019

The 1998 Krn Mountains Mw 5.6 earthquake had widespread effects on the natural environment, among which rockfalls prevail. All rockfalls were evaluated to estimate the total affected area. The 180 km2 area (r=7.6 km) was established and compared with two worldwide datasets. The affected area is considerably below the upper bound limit established from both datasets. The same is valid for the nearby 1976 Friuli Mw 6.4 earthquake with a 2050 km2 affected area. However, comparison with the ESI 2007 scale definitions has shown that the area affected by the 1998 Imax VII–VIII event is significantly larger than the one proposed by this scale, but smaller for the 1976 Imax X event. This could not be explained by differences in hypocentral depth or focal mechanisms of both events. The results of the study have implications for seismic hazard assessment and for understanding environmental effects caused by moderate earthquakes in mountain regions.
City-region or urban-rural framework: what matters more in understanding the residential location of the creative class?
Authors: Kozina Jani , Clifton Nick
Published: May 2019

This paper addresses the key question as to what matters more in understanding the residential location of the creative class in Slovenia: the city-region or the urban-rural framework? Our analysis shows that differences in residential concentrations of the creative class vary more within city-regions (on an urban-rural framework) than between city-regions. Moreover, the creative class is moving out of densely populated urban areas to more sparsely populated suburban / rural areas within all city-regions. There also are significant differences between more developed western Slovenia (denser settlement structures) and less developed eastern Slovenia (sparser settlement structures). We conclude that new models of living promote dispersion.
Participatory urbanism: creative interventions for sustainable development
Authors: Poljak Istenič Saša
Published: May 2019

The paper presents the concept of participatory urbanism and analyses its practical implications in the context of the City of Ljubljana. It assesses the potential of participatory methodology for physical and social interventions in public spaces through the case-studies of two creative spatial practices: urban community garden Onkraj gradbišča / Beyond the construction site and community-led renovation of Savsko naselje neighbourhood. It indicates how bottom-up initiatives can contribute to sustainable development of an urban area, especially to its environmental and social features. It concludes with the ideas of how cities might engage with bottom-up spatial practices to increase the effectiveness of urban spatial planning, management and administration, and to boost their green creative image.
Gender, age and education differences in food consumption within a region: Case studies of Belgrade and Novi Sad (Serbia)
Authors: Vuksanović Nikola Darko , Tešanović Dragan , Kalenjuk Bojana , Portić Milijanko
Published: May 2019

Nowadays, each tourist visits a region for certain reasons, a different type of tourism, but besides the main motives, food and beverages are an inevitable attraction. Some tourists' characteristics, such as gender, age and education of tourists, contribute significantly to food and beverages consumption. The authors recognized the importance of gender, age, and education in analyzing food and beverage consumption as an important component of tourist products. The study makes a significant conceptual contribution towards the spatial/economic development for those who are seeking to integrate local food and beverage into the tourist product.
Land-use changes in Slovenian terraced landscapes
Authors: Kladnik Drago , Geršič Matjaž , Pipan Primož , Volk Bahun Manca
Published: May 2019

This article presents the findings of a study on long-term land-use changes in eight areas of various Slovenian landscapes. The emphasis is on comparing changes on terraced and non-terraced land from the early nineteenth century to the present and on a typological classification of land-use change, whereby a fifth type (i.e., extensification) is added to the established four types in Slovenia: afforestation, grass overgrowth, intensification, and urbanization. The article explains which factors have a decisive impact on land-use changes, especially in terms of abandoning terrace cultivation. The methodology used proves that there are important differences in the rate of land-use change between terraced and non-terraced land.
Land registers as a source of studying long-term land-use changes
Authors: Gabrovec Matej , Bičík Ivan , Komac Blaž
Published: May 2019

Land registers, or cadasters, contain information on land use because this is vital for land assessment and taxation. Some European countries produced land registers covering their entire territories as early as the nineteenth century. In the first half of the nineteenth century, the Habsburg Monarchy produced the Franciscean Cadaster, also known as the Stable Cadaster, which shows the traditional preindustrial cultural landscape and makes it possible to analyze land-use changes or the transformation of the traditional cultural landscape. This special issue is the result of collaboration between Slovenian and Czech geographers, and it features six articles covering land-use changes from the perspective of natural geography, political geography, ecosystems, farms, and metrics. The articles, which explore the processes of changes at the national and regional levels, are based on the textual part of the Franciscan Cadaster, and the local studies are based on the cartographic part of the cadaster.
Surface Functionality and Water Adsorption Studies of α-Aluminium (III) Oxide Nanoparticles by near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Hiranmartsuwan Peraya , Siangdee Natthaya , Christy Alfred A.
Published: May 2019

The adsorption of water on aluminium (III) oxide nanoparticle surface was studied by near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. The comparison of NIR spectra at 40% and 60% humidity were reported in this work and were analyzed using second derivative techniques. The second derivative spectra were used to understand the chemistry of adsorption of water molecules. Small amounts of samples were dried under vacuum at 230 °C before the analysis. The analysis of the spectra confirms the presence of three different hydroxyl groups on aluminium (III) oxide surface. The spectra acquired during the adsorption of water molecules show the characteristic peaks in the range of 5400-5100 cm-1 corresponding to the combination band of water molecules hydrogen bonded with hydroxyl groups. There is also evidence for the presence of free water in the bulk of aluminium oxide. Furthermore, the mass of water adsorption on Al2O3 nanoparticle surface have been determined by gravimetric analysis. The gravimetric analysis confirms the adsorption of water molecules by aluminium (III) oxide surface.
Smart Sensor Using Cellulose-Based Material for TNT Detection
Authors: Siangdee Natthaya , Youngvises Napaporn
Published: May 2019

A smart sensor with cellulose-based material was developed for the detection of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), using potassium hydroxide/ethanol reagent adsorbed onto a cellulose cotton swab. A red color was observed immediately after exposure to TNT. The sensor allowed rapid qualitative and semi-quantitative analysis of TNT by naked-eye, observation at TNT amounts > 2 μg. To improve precision and accuracy, a smartphone was used to capture digital images of the color. A calibration curve was constructed between log TNT (μg) vs. color intensity, and was linear in the range 1-30 μg-TNT with R2= 0.9975. The limit of detection (3.3σ/slope) was 0.11 μg-TNT and percentage relative standard deviation (%RSD, n=10) was 2.30. The sensor was used to detect the TNT samples of soil and from non-porous and porous surfaces.
Influence of Third Element of TiNi Alloy on Tribological Behavior in Dry and Wet Conditions for Orthodontic Applications
Authors: Phukaoluan Aphinan , Khantachawana Anak , Kaewtatip Pongpan , Dechkunakorn Surachai
Published: May 2019

The tribological behavior of Ti49.4Ni50.6, Ti49Ni46Cu5 and Ti50Ni47Co3 (at%) alloy in dry and wet conditions was studied. The alloy was prepared in a Vacuum Arc Re-melting (VAR), homogenized at 800°C for 3600 s and quenched in water. The phase transformation temperatures were measured by differential scanning calorimetry. Before a tribology test, it is necessary to determine surface roughness, because high surface roughness affects friction. The hardness behavior, based on the load over residual indent area, was determined by a Vickers hardness tester. The sliding friction tests were performed using a ball-on-disk tribometer in dry condition at room temperature and wet condition in artificial saliva (pH 5.35) at 37°C (Oral temperature). The results showed that transformation temperature (Af) lowered oral temperature (37°C), this was mainly attributed to the superelastic properties that can be taken into orthodontic applications. The studies showed significant influences in dry condition of coefficient of friction. Caused by the force between the ball and the disk, contact pressure of surface area effect in wear occurred. The debris could not be removed from the surface area tested. TiNiCu and TiNiCo generated significantly lower average coefficient of friction when tested under dry condition, which may have been due to the addition of Cu and Co. Wet condition decreased coefficient of friction more than dry condition, owing to the lubricating effects of artificial saliva.
Experimental Investigation on Strength and Bearing Capacity Improvement of a High Plasticity Clayey Subgrade Soil Using Lime
Authors: Dhar Subhradeep , Hussain Monowar
Published: May 2019

Limited connectivity and poor infrastructure of roads acts as a roadblocks hampering the socio-economic development of one region. In order to overall development of these regions an effort should be given to cultivate well established road network. But due to scarcity of good quality soil PWD engineers are often forced to build roads over the weak soil which directly affects the strength and durability of the road. It is therefore essential to improve the engineering properties of such problematic soil with suitable stabilization technique as and when encountered. Lime stabilization is one such well known chemical stabilization technique extensively used to improve the poor subgrade condition and it is recommended by several codes in INDIA. This paper attempts to study the effect of lime on strength and bearing capacity improvement of soft clayey soil. A series of UCS and CBR tests are conducted with different percentages of lime (i.e. 3, 5, 7 and 9%) and at different curing period to assess the potential of lime in strength improvement. Test results indicate that strength, stiffness and bearing capacity of the soil is considerably improved after lime amendment. Both unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and California bearing ration (CBR) improved up to 7% of lime beyond that it decreases. The improvement of UCS and CBR is found approx three and five fold as compared to original soil. Underlying mechanisms of this improvement is further scrutinized by microstructural analysis such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field Emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) with Energy dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDAX). Apparent formation of some new peaks in XRD analysis and change of textural and structural morphology of clayey soils obtained from FESEM confirms the formation of cementitious compounds in the lime stabilized soil.
Durability Studies of Environmental Friendly Self Compacting Concrete with and without Fiber
Authors: Meesaraganda L.V. Prasad , Tarafder Nilanjan
Published: May 2019

Concrete is the most important building material in construction industry because of its revolutionary property of quick hardening and free from internal problems. Its use has a great effect on environment due to the large amount of natural resources and cement lime materials required for manufacture the concrete structures. Now it’s the time for think in the direction of Eco-friendly durable materials in concrete production. In the present work, Quarry Dust and Foundry Sand are partial replaced River Sand to develop Rheological and Durability properties of M40 grade of Eco-Efficient Self-Compacting Concrete (ESCC). The target strength could be achieved satisfying the rheological properties of Eco-Efficient Self-Compacting Concrete with fiber additions. In this study investigations carried to find the Permeability, Shrinkage, Acid attack and Rapid Chloride Permeability Test (RCPT) of Eco-Efficient Fiber based Self-Compacting Concrete and it is observed that it is no way inferior to the conventional concretes. From the experimentation, it is recommended that waste materials from different source are fitting to be used as fine materials in concrete. The construction cost reduces by utilising such waste as fine aggregate in place of aggregate from natural source for construction.
Experimental and Simulation Method of Introducing Compressive Residual Stress in ASTM A516 Grade 70 Steel
Authors: Isa Mohd Rashdan , Sulaiman Saiful Naim , Zaroog Omar Suliman
Published: May 2019

Compressive residual stress below the surface of material could increase fatigue life as it encounters the tensile loading applied on the material during operation. Shot peening process is a common surface treatment to introduce this stress. This study will investigate on how to introduce the same amount of residual stress by simulation using FEM as introduced in experimental shot peening process. Actual shot peening process was done using a particular sets of parameters and FEM with single shot is used to simplify the simulation procedure. Result shows that using a single shot simulation could also introduce the equivalent amount of residual stress as in the experimental multi-shots shot peening process. This value could be used in further study to study the relaxation of the stress after load is being applied.
Characterization of Cements Produced from Clinker Co-Processed with TiO2 Waste (UOW)
Authors: da Silva Andrade Neto José , Mariani Bruna Bueno , Amorim Júnior Nilson Santana , Ribeiro Daniel Véras
Published: May 2019

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the properties of cements produced from clinkers co-processed with unreacted ore waste (UOW), that is a waste generated in TiO2 production. A commercial CP V ARI RS cement and four different cements produced in the laboratory were characterized. The cements produced in the laboratory were made from raw mixes with a Lime Saturation Factor (LSF) fixed in 98% and varying the incorporation content of TiO2 in 0% (reference); 0.5%; 1.0% and 2.0% from the incorporation of UOW, by weight. The raw mixes were calcined at 1340°C and the resulting clinkers were mixed and interground with gypsum, thus resulting in the laboratory cements. These cements were characterized physically and mineralogically, besides tests of loss on ignition, expansibility (Le Chatelier’s needle) and compressive strength at 1, 3, 7, 28 and 91 days. It was observed that the incorporation of the UOW enhanced the formation of alite, due to the mineralizing effect of the titanium, and cement with 0.5% TiO2 (1.3% of UOW) presented the highest strength.
Influence of Clutch Disc Waste (Grinding Dust) on Portland Cement Hydration
Authors: da Silva Andrade Neto José , Santos Tiago Assunção , Mariano Raphael Dias , Morelli Marcio Raymundo , Ribeiro Daniel Véras
Published: May 2019

This paper evaluates the effect of grinding dust (GD), a waste generated in the clutch disc finishing process, on Portland cement hydration. For this, pastes with additions of 5%, 10% and 15% GD, relative to cement weight, were molded and compared with a reference sample. Tests of setting time determination by Vicat needle, calorimetry, monitoring the ultrasonic pulse propagation velocity and mineralogical analysis (X-ray diffraction) in pastes with 1 day of hydration were carried out. It was observed that GD, due to the presence of copper, zinc and phenolic resin in its composition, is responsible for retarding cement hydration and thus increases the setting time and delays the evolution of heat release and pulse propagation velocity. However, the formation of new crystalline phases was not observed.
Synthesis and Characterization of Bio-Based Rigid Polyurethane Foams with Varying Amount of Blowing Agent
Authors: Grumo Jessalyn C. , Jabber Lady Jaharah Y. , Lubguban Arnold A. , Capangpangan Rey Y. , Alguno Arnold C.
Published: May 2019

We report on the rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF) with varying amount of blowing agent. The effects of blowing agent in the formation of polyurethane will be characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. SEM images revealed that varying the amount of blowing agent will significantly change the surface morphology of the resulting RPUF. The average cell size of the RPUF increases with increasing amount of blowing agent. Moreover, FTIR results revealed the presence of functional group related to formation of urethane bonds such as N-H, C=O, C=N and C-O-C stretching suggesting that polyurethane foam was successfully synthesized. This simple and straightforward process of RPUF using water as blowing agent will be economical.
Effect of Ingredient Loading and Temperature on Tensile Properties of Surfactant-Loaded Natural Rubber Vulcanizates
Authors: Arabit-Cruz J. , Pajarito Bryan
Published: May 2019

Tensile properties are among the measures that give rubber products value. In this study, the effect of ingredient loading and temperature on the tensile properties of surfactant-loaded natural rubber vulcanizates (NRV) are investigated. Rubber dogbone samples are compounded using an L12 orthogonal array of Taguchi design of experiment, where ingredients are treated as factors varied at low and high loadings. Rubber specimens for each formulation are thermally aged for 20 days in ovens with temperatures of 40, 50, and 60 °C. Results show that zinc oxide (ZnO), paraffin wax, sulfur, mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT), and diphenylguanidine (DPG) significantly have the highest effect on increasing the elastic modulus while decreasing the tensile strength, tensile strain, and tensile set. Used oil has the highest effect on decreasing the elastic modulus but has the highest effect on increasing tensile strength, tensile strain, and tensile set. High loading of cocamide diethanolamide (coca DEA) significantly increases tensile strength at 60 °C. High loading of glycerol monostearate (GMS) significantly decreases tensile strength and strain at 40 °C. Highest elastic modulus, tensile strength, strain, and set are achieved when NRV are thermally aged at 50 °C.
Effect of Solution Treatment Time on Microhardness of High Nitrogen Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Dong Kewen , Zhou Rui , Northwood Derek O. , Liu Cheng
Published: May 2019

High nitrogen stainless steel (HNSS) is becoming an increasingly important engineering material because of its excellent corrosion resistance and good mechanical properties. A hot rolled Cr19Mn19Mo2N0.7 HNSS, having a microstructure consisting of banded ferrite and dotted/dendritic nitrides dispersed in the austenite matrix, was solution treated at 1160oC for various times. It is shown that the nitride can be dissolved, and the shape of ferrite can be changed by the solution treatment. The microhardness of both austenite and ferrite decreases with increasing solution treatment time. This is attributed to an increased grain size and a homogeneous distribution of alloying elements. The results are helpful in controlling the thermomechanical processing of HNSSs in commercial practice.
The Effect of Cellulose Fibers on the Formation of Petroleum-Based and Bio-Based Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Jabber Lady Jaharah Y. , Grumo Jessalyn C. , Alguno Arnold C. , Lubguban Arnold A. , Capangpangan Rey Y.
Published: May 2019

We report on the effect of cellulose fibers on the formation of petroleum-based and bio-based polyurethane foams. The fabricated polyurethane foams (PUF) were done by reacting isocyanate with petroleum-based polyol and epoxidized soybean oil (ESBO)-based polyols via hand mixing. The addition of cellulose fibers extracted from pineapple (Ananas comosus) leaf was done to enhance the properties of the fabricated PUF. Experimental results revealed that surface morphology of the fabricated polyurethane foams with addition of cellulose fibers remain the well-defined cell structures as shown in the scanning electron micrographs although few cell ruptures were observed. Likewise, the presence of the vibrational modes of the NCO and OH were confirmed in the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra suggesting that successful formation of polyurethane foams takes place. The thermogravimetric results revealed that much higher thermal stability for the 100% ESBO-based PUF with cellulose fibers due to the presence of cellulose and triglycerides in the ESBO-based polyols which both degrades at higher temperature. This suggest that 100% ESBO-based PUF with cellulose fiber exhibit higher thermal stability provides promising application for thermal insulations.
Surface Smoothing of A5083 Aluminum Alloy Plate by Friction Stir Forming
Authors: Ohashi Takahiro , Okuda Kento , Tabatabaei Hamed Mofidi , Nishihara Tadashi
Published: May 2019

This paper provides a framework for the transcription of the surface of a mirror-finished die onto a metal plate by friction stir forming (FSF). In FSF, a material is put on a die, then friction stirring was conducted on its back surface for the transcription of the profile of the die onto the material. In this paper, a mirror-polished die of JIS SUS304 stainless steel with surface roughness Sz 0.014 mm and a probe-less friction-stirring tool in 18 mm shoulder diameter were employed for the experiment. A5083P-O aluminum plates, 3 mm thick, were utilized as base metals for the transcription. The authors varied tool spindle speed and tool feed rate to evaluate the forming results. Consequently, a mirror-finished surface under the friction-stirring tool was successfully transferred from the die to the aluminum alloy plate. The roughness of the base metal before processing was Sz 0.022 mm and that of the processed metal was Sz 0.012–0.016 mm. Higher spindle speed and faster feed rate resulted in a smoother surface; it is thought that high spindle speed and faster feed rate should be effective for higher contact pressure between a die and a material.
New Flex Fatigue Tester for Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composite
Authors: Messiry Magdi El , Mohamed Abir
Published: May 2019

Textile materials are widely used in the industrial textiles. The yarn and fabric fatigue are not easily prearranged hence, in most cases the apparatuses used for applying cyclic loading under flex fatigue conditions will affect only one section of the yarn and fabric and the results will depend on the level of heterogeneity of the tested material. The common methods of flex fatigue testing are to pull the tested specimen, hold under tension, backward and forward over a fixed roller or grip one end of the specimen while its free end is bent so, the specimen element is alternated between straight and bent form. The new suggested principle is the fixation of the yarns or fabrics in the internal part of rubber tire wheel and pressing it by the pressure of internal rubber tube with the external wheel under predetermined load to give the required bending deformation on the specimen. The theoretical calculation of the design indicates that the testing specimen is subjected to pure bending. In this work, a setup was built up and several types of the technical yarns, fabrics, as well as flexible composites, were tested.it was proves the degradations of the material under the flex fatigue. .
Effects of Natural Clay on Ionic Conductivity, Crystallinity and Thermal Properties of PEO-LiCF3SO3-Natural Clay as Solid Polymer Electrolyte Nanocomposites
Authors: Pongsuk Pattranuch , Pumchusak Jantrawan
Published: May 2019

The polymer nanocomposites of PEO-LiCF3SO3 based solid polymer electrolyte were prepared using two kinds of natural clays, which are halloysite nanotube (HNT) and montmorillonite (MMT) nanoparticle. Different contents (0, 1, 5 and 10wt %) of halloysite nanotube (HNT) and montmorillonite (MMT) nanoparticle were explored. Solid polymer electrolyte nanocomposite film was prepared by solution casting method. The ionic conductivity, crystallinity and thermal properties of solid polymer electrolyte membranes were studied by impedance spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), respectively. It was found that HNT provided higher ionic conductivity for solid polymer electrolyte nanocomposite than what MMT did. The highest ionic conductivity at room temperature was found at 5% HNT as 2.068 x 10-5 S.cm-1. The ion-polymer interactions between PEO-LiCF3SO3 and natural clay nanoparticle were investigated by using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra. The PEO-LiCF3SO3-5%HNT showed good oxidative stability than PEO-LiCF3SO3 composite.
Choosing wisely in cardiology: Five proposals from the Italian Association for Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation
Authors: Werren Marika , Copetti Roberto , Gaibazzi Nicola , Giada Franco , Faggiano Andrea , Ricci Chiara , Faggiano Pompilio
Published: May 2019

We do not always accomplish what is best for our patients. Is “more procedures, more drugs” a real synonym of good and always useful medicine? Probably not. Indeed, it has been highlighted that many tests and treatments, widely used in medical practice, do not bring benefits to patients, but can be harmful. So, why do we keep performing them? Many reasons, surely one of the main is the constant fear of malpractice legal-medical consequences; this led to the development of a defensive medicine, no longer focused on the health of the patient. For this reason, the Italian Association of Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation (GICR-IACPR) joined an international project “Choosing Wisely”, supported by the Slow Medicine Initiative, a network which states that “Less is more”. The purpose of the “Choosing Wisely” project is to improve the quality and safety of health services through the reduction of practices that, according to available scientific knowledge, do not bring significant benefits to the patients, but can, on the opposite, expose them to risks. This GICR-IACPR paper proposes to avoid five widespread practices in cardiology, at risk for inappropriateness and lacking of clinical evidence of benefit: i) do not perform routine chest X-ray in patients entering rehabilitation programme after cardiac surgery; ii) do not perform Computed Tomography for coronary calcium score in patients at high cardiovascular risk; iii) do not perform Holter electrocardiographic monitoring in patients suffering from syncope, near syncope or dizziness, in whom a non-arrhythmic origin has been documented; iv) do not routinely prescribe proton pump inhibitors (PPI) for gastrointestinal bleeding prophylaxis in patient with single drug antiplatelet therapy in absence of additional risk factors; v) avoid routine use of infective endocarditis prophylaxis in mild to moderate native valve disease.
Invasive Aspergillus tracheobronchitis in a patient with hairy cell leukemia and previous Plasmodium falciparum infection
Authors: Antonogiannaki Elvira-Markella , Proklou Athanasia , Tamiolakis Dimitrios , Vassalou Evangelia , Kondili Eumorfia
Published: May 2019

Invasive Aspergillus tracheobronchitis is a relatively rare form of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis characterized by invasion of the tracheobronchial tree by Aspergillus spp. Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis is predominantly detected in severely immunocompromised patients. Notably however, pulmonary and tracheobronchial cases of invasive aspergillosis have also been reported, particularly in the context of severe malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum. Herein, we present a case of invasive Aspergillus tracheobronchitis in a patient with hairy cell leukemia and previous Plasmodium falciparum infection.
Data mining techniques for the study of online learning from an extended approach
Authors: Sánchez-Sordo José Manuel
Published: May 2019

In the latest years information technologies have impacted society changing the way human beings learn, and because of that it is necessary to study the intimate relationship between humans and their technological tools. On this path the extended mind thesis posits human cognition as a process that occurs in conjunction between biological and non-biological components, furthermore Connectivism is stated as a learning theory for the digital age. Based on such approaches this work presents a summary of a research whose objective was to know how people extend their cognitive processes with the aim of learning through the internet. Methodologically, an artificial intelligence algorithm for supervised learning (J48) was used to analyze the data of 336 participants with the aim of obtaining classification rules (patterns) of internet use. Finally, the results show that people who report visiting specialized websites, read electronic books and take into account the spelling of the resources they are looking at on the internet are the ones with optimal strategies for learning online.
Building Capital at the Library: Financial Literacy Programming and Partnerships
Authors: Mross Emily L. , Reiter Lauren
Published: May 2019

Lack of personal financial knowledge negatively affects both individual and collective economic vitality, making financial literacy programming an important way that libraries can contribute to strong communities. Financial literacy is one of five essential 21st century literacies identified and supported by PA Forward, an initiative of the Pennsylvania Library Association to support libraries in their literacy efforts. Offering these events and workshops is a daunting task, but connecting libraries with partners who are trustworthy financial literacy experts can ease the difficulties. Using examples from public and academic libraries in Pennsylvania, this article will discuss PA Forward Financial Literacy partners, illustrate a variety of programming opportunities, and highlight best practices for library financial literacy programs.
PaLA Virtual Journal Club: Providing Opportunities for Reflection, Improvement, and Connections
Authors: Bishop Carrie , Riehman-Murphy Christina , Correll Melissa
Published: May 2019

A journal club is one means for those in similar professions or practices to read, discuss, and keep up with professional literature with colleagues. Journal clubs are most frequently associated with the medical professions; however, many professionals, including librarians, can benefit from the reading of research and the subsequent discussions and camaraderie that a journal club can elicit. This article describes the launch of a statewide virtual journal club for librarians in Pennsylvania. Now in its third series, the Pennsylvania Library Association (PaLA) College & Research Division (CRD) journal club has given those who’ve participated the opportunity to designate time for professional reading, reflect on personal practice, discuss and exchange theoretical and practical ideas, and connect with librarians across the state.
El universo onírico de Andrej Zholdak a través de los sueños de Hamlet: "Hamlet Dreams" y su paso por el teatro español
Authors: Del Hoyo Ventura Marga
Published: May 2019

El presente artículo pretende acercarse a la creación escénica y dramatúrgica del director ucraniano Andriy Zholdak a partir del espectáculo Hamlet. Dreams. El complejo universo poético de este director nos enfrenta como espectadores a diversas estrategias que se relacionan con la dramaturgia contemporánea europea. La relación estética entre el texto de Shakespeare y la creación de Zholdak se apoya en la deconstrucción, tanto a nivel fabular como a nivel escénico. Zhodak proyecta su universo propio, su experiencia vital, sus pulsiones creativas, en una complicada pieza dividida en tres partes polisémicas donde el trabajo gestual del actor y el campo sonoro se revelan como los signos escénicos principales.
Los espacios teatrales y la crisis del 2008: Resistencia, reconstrucción y nuevos territorios
Authors: Viñals Carole
Published: May 2019

Este trabajo esboza un panorama del teatro independiente español surgido después de la crisis del 2008. Este teatro se relaciona con el de los años sesenta, pero mantiene diferencias con un enfoque más subjetivo. También nos interesamos por el teatro de habla hispana en el extranjero que crea nuevos lazos transnacionales forjando identidades.
Strongyloides stercoralis HYPERINFECTION IN A RENAL TRANSPLANT RECIPIENT
Authors: Venturi Jakelline , Do Livramento Andréa , Souza Nunes Zeliana , Karini Rensi Botelho Tatiani
Published: May 2019

Strongyloidiasis is a worldwide intestinal infection produced by the nematode Strongyloides stercoralis. In this study, we report the case of a 47-year-old female patient who was submittedto renal transplant and an immunosuppression regimen. She was admitted to the emergency service with intense abdominal pain, evolving to an acute respiratory insufficiency, gramnegativebacteremia, refractory shock and death. S. stercoralis larvae were identified in the parasitological exam and bronchoalveolar lavage. This provides evidence for the importance of the early diagnosis of this neglected helminthiasis in transplanted patients undergoing immunosuppresive therapy.
CHEMO-MECHANICAL MODEL FOR PREDICTING THE LIFETIME OF EPDM RUBBERS
Authors: Colin Xavier , Hassine Mouna Ben , Nait-Abelaziz Moussa
Published: May 2019

A chemo-mechanical model has been developed for predicting the long-term mechanical behavior of EPDM rubbers in a harsh thermal oxidative environment. Schematically, this model is composed of two complementary levels: The “chemical level” calculates the degradation kinetics of the macromolecular network that is introduced into the “mechanical level” to deduce the corresponding mechanical behavior in tension. The “chemical level” is derived from a realistic mechanistic scheme composed of 19 elementary reactions describing the thermal oxidation of EPDM chains, their stabilization against oxidation by commercial antioxidants but also by sulfide bridges, and the maturation and reversion of the macromolecular network. The different rate constants and chemical yields have been determined from a heavy thermal aging campaign in air between 70 and 170 °C on four distinct EPDM formulations: additive free gum, unstabilized and stabilized sulfur vulcanized gum, and industrial material. This “chemical level” has been used as an inverse resolution method for simulating accurately the consequences of thermal aging at the molecular (concentration changes in antioxidants, carbonyl products, double bonds, and sulfide bridges), macromolecular (concentration changes in chain scissions and cross-link nodes), and macroscopic scales (weight changes). Finally, it gives access to the concentration changes in elastically active chains from which are deduced the corresponding changes in average molar mass MC between two consecutive cross-link nodes. The “mechanical level” is derived from a modified version of the statistical theory of rubber elasticity, called the phantom network theory. It relates the elastic and fracture properties to MC if considering the macromolecular network perfect, and gives access to the lifetime of the EPDM rubber based on a relevant structural or mechanical end-of-life criterion. A few examples of simulations are given to demonstrate the reliability of the chemo-mechanical model.
EDITORIAL
Authors: Vargas J. V. C.
Published: May 2019

Engenharia Térmica has the goal of obtaining international scientific indexation in worldly recognized Scientific Institutes (e.g., COMPENDEX, ISI). For that, since the issue Vol. 1, No. 2, all articles have been written only in English, and since Vol. 2, No. 1, the periodicity has been rigorously by semester. From Engenharia Térmica Vol. 3, No. 2, a sequential page numbering has been adopted for each volume, that is the merge of 2 issues of Engenharia Térmica, i.e., one volume per year. Volume 1 of Engenharia Térmica resulted from the merge of the 2 first issues. From 2005, a process to guarantee the authors’ copyright transfer is being established. In 2006, the application process for the international scientific indexation of Engenharia Térmica will be initiated, i.e., after 3 years of continuous publication in English and with an effective publication periodicity by semester.With respect to the contribution of articles to Engenharia Térmica by the readers, submission of work derived from the cooperation between university and industry, or originated directly from the industry’s own research and development department, is strongly encouraged. In the present issue the publication of expanded and revised papers that have originally been presented at ENCIT2004, held in the period from November 29 to December 3, 2004, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (10th Brazilian Congress of Thermal Engineering and Sciences). This has been a successful policy of Engenharia Térmica, which should be extended to other ABCM (Brazilian Society of Mechanical Sciences) national conferences, COBEM and CONEM, and to thematic events, such as, for example, Mercofrio and Conbrava, in the area of Refrigeration. As in the past issues of Engenharia Térmica, two main sections classify the papers: Science contains papers related to the advancements of Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics and Heat and Mass Transfer, and to novel theories or advanced numerical and experimental methods, and Technology is directed to technological contributions in Thermal Engineering, including the presentation of papers featuring technological innovations.
The Effect of Transparency, Competency and Religiosity on Public Officers’ Ethical Behaviour
Authors: Ali Mazurina Mohd , Azam Nurul Izzah Mohamed , Ghani Erlane K
Published: May 2019

This study examines the relationship between transparency, competency and religiosity with the ethical behaviour of the public officers in Malaysia. This study utilises the questionnaire survey as the research instrument distributed to the public officers from eleven enforcement agencies in Malaysia. Using multiple regression analysis on 71 respondents, this study shows that both transparency and competency have significant relationship with the ethical behaviour of the public officers in the enforcement agencies, and the relationship is significant. Personal actions and interpersonal relationships, two-way communication, reinforcement, and decision-making are among the factors contributing to the significant relationship. However, religiosity does not have a significant relationship on the public sector officers’ ethical behaviour. The findings from this study provide some implications towards the enforcement agencies in improving their ethical behaviour in performing their tasks. This is because transparency and competency play an important role in improving ethical behaviour in the work place.
A extensão do objeto da ação popular ambiental diante do microssistema do processo coletivo
Authors: Gusmão Leonardo Cordeiro de , Costa Beatriz Souza
Published: May 2019

A democracia se fortalece pelo exercício da cidadania, consolidando a Soberania Popular por meio da atuação solidária voltada para o bem-estar da coletividade. Só assim será dada máxima eficácia aos direitos fundamentais que compõem a dignidade da pessoa humana. No que se refere ao direito ao meio ambiente ecologicamente equilibrado, a ação popular é de suma importância, devendo seu objeto ser interpretado ampliativamente. Para tanto, deve o intérprete considerar a Teoria do Diálogo das Fontes e aplicar o Microssistema do Processo Coletivo. Será demonstrado, a partir do método jurídico de raciocínio dedutivo, com análise de jurisprudência, o cabimento da ação popular também contra omissão lesiva ao meio ambiente, revelando que seu objeto não se limita ao pedido anulatório de ato lesivo. Discorre-se, após, até a conclusão de que é possível qualquer tipo de tutela – obrigação de fazer, de não fazer e condenação em pagar – eficaz na prevenção ou reparação de danos a direitos difusos, coletivos stricto sensu e individuais homogêneos, que tenham origem em lesão ou ameaça de lesão ao direito fundamental ao meio ambiente ecologicamente equilibrado.
A judicialização das políticas públicas e o ativismo judicial como meios de concreção dos direitos individuais, sociais e coletivos
Authors: Solimani Carlos Henrique , Silva Juvencio Borges
Published: May 2019

O presente artigo tem como objeto o estudo dos fenômenos da Judicialização das Políticas Públicas e o Ativismo Judicial como meios de concreção dos direitos sociais e coletivos. A discussão da temática é empreendida para demonstrar a ineficiência do Estado em tornar efetiva sua atuação como agente fomentador dos direitos fundamentais e sociais, do progresso, da cidadania, do combate à fome, à miséria, melhoria da saúde, educação. O Poder Judiciário tem-se tornado o último refúgio dos indivíduos na defesa da cidadania frente aos Poderes Executivo e Legislativo. Será objeto de avaliação a interferência do Poder Judiciário na divisão dos poderes, sua legitimidade par agir na linha ora suscitada e da interferência administrativa de suas decisões. Apesar das inúmeras decisões Judiciais ativistas os Poderes Legislativo e Executivo têm mantido sua postura de inércia e ineficiência obrigando a atuação do Poder Judiciário. A discussão da temática será empreendida por meio da revisão da literatura pelo método hipotético-dedutivo, além de dados estatísticos concretos a demonstrar o resultado e conclusão das pesquisas. O tema é absolutamente atual e sua contemporaneidade assim permanecerá por longo tempo enquanto os Poderes Executivo e Legislativo não adotarem Políticas Públicas efetivas e necessárias à concreção dos direitos sociais.
A Corpus Tools-assisted Evaluation of Three ESP Textbooks in China
Authors: Ou Chuying
Published: May 2019

ESP textbook plays an important role in facilitating students to develop their profession-related language skills. However, ESP textbooks published in China are less developed and often criticized as ignoring the training of language skills. This research aims to reveal the specific problems of China’s ESP textbooks by conducting a multiple-case study. Three ESP textbooks used by ESP courses participants from G University in China were selected: “Computer Professional English Course” “Advertising English” and “Logistics English”. The research investigated their performance focusing on six aspects: coverage of language skills, text features, coverage of discourse functions, recycling, organization and difficulty. The content was analyzed by three different corpus tools. It is found that the three textbooks place too much emphasis on reading and vocabulary, lacking the training of listening skill, speaking skill, as well as the delivery of certain learning strategies. All three textbooks involve a wide range of discourse functions. The texts are informative academic texts, but organized by subject matter only, rather than a synthesis of subject matter, language points and language skills. There is scarce recycling of language points in two of the books and texts through all of them do not indicate a rising difficulty. It is concluded that the drawbacks of the three ESP textbooks far outweigh their merits. By uncovering problems of three ESP textbooks in China the research provides useful reference for future ESP textbook compilation.