Multi-State Logging Freeze Detection Passive RFID Tags

In this work the design and measurement of a passive UHF RFID smart tag suitable for monitoring and recording critical temperature violations in cold chain management are presented. The tag uses moving parts to detect and log different temperate states without the requirement for transceivers, memory and batteries. A simple mechanical method is proposed whereby a moving metallic plate is trapped in one of 4 possible positions by specific environmental temperatures whereby inducing a permanent state based change in the passive RFID tag response. The latched product critical temperature violations can be monitored via the read power required to turn on the tag transponder chip which differs in each state

A Dual Band Belt Antenna

This paper presents an antenna structure design using a standard belt for wearable applications. The antenna arouse from a body of research work on wearable metallic structures functioning as antennas for wireless on-body networks

Tamper Proof RFID Security Tag

In this publication we present a tamper proof long range platform tolerant uhf smart RFID tag to identify valuable or security sensitive products. The smart tag functions as platform tolerant tag but once detached from the host object, it will permanently stop to function buy rendering the RFID chip unusable. The tag substrate design for additive manufacturing, platform tolerant antenna design as well as electromagnetic performance and read range are provided

Passive UHF RFID Tilt Sensor

In this paper we introduce a bio-axis passive wireless UHF RFID tilt sensor for applications such as to increase safety in warehouse environment and damage detection in consumer goods and where long term monitoring of the product is essential without the need to supply power to the sensors. Simulation and prototype testing indicate it is possible to detect and isolate tilting in 3 axes

Extraordinary transition in the two-dimensional O(n) model

The extraordinary transition which occurs in the two-dimensional O(n) model for $n<1$ at sufficiently enhanced surface couplings is studied by conformal perturbation theory about infinite coupling and by finite-size scaling of the spectrum of the transfer matrix of a simple lattice model. Unlike the case of $n\geq1$ in higher dimensions, the surface critical behaviour differs from that occurring when fixed boundary conditions are imposed. In fact, all the surface scaling dimensions are equal to those already found for the ordinary transition, with, however, an interesting reshuffling of the corresponding eigenvalues between different sectors of the transfer matrix.Comment: 18 pages, Latex, 12 eps figures; submitted to Nucl. Phys.

LEADING WITH EMOTIONAL LABOR AND AFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP CLIMATE AS ANTECEDENTS TO ENTREPRENEURIAL EFFECTIVENESS

This study finds leader genuine emotion does influence firm performance in two ways. First it can result in positive effect on subordinate attitude which, in turn, increases firm performance. Second, it can result in negative direct effect on firm performance after controlling for the indirect effects just mentioned. These results are interpreted herein to provide support to the claims by many (Ashforth & Humphrey, 1993; Gardner et al., 2009a; Humphrey et al., 2008; Hunt et al., 2008) that properly managed genuine leader emotion should lead to positive outcomes and improperly managed genuine leader emotion should lead to negative outcomes. Here, proper management is contingent upon displaying emotions that “correspond” with display rules, situational requirements, and audience expectations. Thus, it is recommended herein that leaders closely monitor their behavior, predominately using genuine emotional displays when appropriate and deep acting when their genuine emotions do not align with the requirements of their role

An experimental study of the magnetic linear birefringence and dichroism of liquids, solutions and dispersions

This thesis contains an experimental study of the linear birefringence and dichroism induced by magnetic fields In molecular liquids, solutions and colloidal dispersions. The measurements were made using apparatus of greater sensitivity than any previously described; most results were new determinations. The liquids were mostly linear and branched alkanes, or alkane derivatives, generally being of high molecular flexibility. Results were also obtained for both very low and high anisotropy liquids of rigid molecules. Solutions of low molecular weight liquids and macro-molecules (polypeptides] were also studied. An immeasurably small dlchrolsm was found for all the above fluids. The valence-optical scheme and the existence of intermolecular angular correlations are not sufficient to explain the birefringence results. Extensive studies were made of the magnetic birefringence and dichroism of crystalline polytetrafluoroethylene of about 0.2 in diameter, dispersed in water. These covered a volume fraction range of about 10" to 0.5, the latter being a highly turbid, concentrated colloidal dispersion. At volume fractions greater than about 0.1, the concentration dependence of the birefringence and dichroism were markedly different, and not explicable on the basis of angular correlation between the colloidal particles

A mixed methods study of the effects of clicker use on math anxiety and achievement in mathematics

Many large lecture classes at undergraduate institutions have started to utilize technology to engage students. A mixed methods design was used in this dissertation research to build a comprehensive understanding of the statistical relationships among mathematics anxiety, math self-efficacy, and achievement in mathematics among students in a large lecture, undergraduate calculus class taught using clickers. The purpose of this study was to develop an understanding of the statistical relationships and of the students’ experiences and perspectives on the relationships among mathematics self-efficacy, math anxiety, and achievement, along with the effect of clicker use on these variables, with attention given to changes in student perceptions during the semester. Statistical analysis was conducted utilizing quantitative survey data, and qualitative methods were used to analyze student interview data. Pairwise statistical relationships identified in previous research were confirmed among math anxiety, mathematics self-efficacy, and achievement in mathematics. Findings also revealed the potential for clickers to help promote desired learning outcomes when used effectively by students and instructors. Future research on the effect of clicker use in other types of mathematics courses besides calculus, in classes with students representing a more diverse range of racial/ethnic backgrounds, and with smaller class sizes will help build on the knowledge gained from this study

Exposing the Role of Gender in the Performance of Founding Entrepreneurs

Using a sample of 114 entrepreneurs, predictors of financial performance outcomes were tested related to founding status and gender. Significant differences were found for founding status indicating that entrepreneurs who founded their ventures were more likely to experience higher financial performance than non-founding entrepreneurs. Hypotheses relating to gender with founding status and financial performance were not supported. Further, gender was not supported as a moderator of the relationship between founding status and financial performance. Implications of these findings are discussed and avenues for future research on this topic are offered

Polydimethylsiloxane Substrates for passive UHFRFID Sensors

PDMS has previously shown to be a suitable substrate for UHF-RFID strain sensor tags due to their elastomer characteristics. However, PDMS has further properties such as polymer swelling which could be utilized in gas sensing. Macroporous PDMS sponges have been proposed as suitable substrates for passive gas sensors. Porous sponges were fabricated using sugar templates and their absorption capacity was investigated along with standard PDMS elastomers. Possible applications could include food package and air quality monitoring