bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automatic Schizophrenia Prediction Using Palm-Print Line Features
Authors: Li Fang , He Ying , Zhang Min Qi
Published: October 2015

Palm-print has a wide range of applications in personal identification, disease diagnosis, and athletes selection. This paper focuses on automatic schizophrenia prediction based on the anomalies in the handprints of patients with schizophrenia. The application is an image processing system, which works on the basis of the relationship between palm print pattern and schizophrenia. The images of human palm form input to the system. Then, system applies digital image processing and analysis techniques on input images to identify certain features in the image. Based on the certain features captured, it is possible to identify a high-risk group for schizophrenia. Present scientific techniques have no way of stopping critical illness from occurring and the increase in death rate will continue. Early diagnosis and early treatment are essential on in dealing with those illnesses. If more relationship between palm print pattern and disease can be ascertained, the proposed system can be very useful to human being to get indication of disease in advance.
Study of Fingerprint Image Feature Extraction Algorithm
Authors: Yuan Shuai , Zhang Guo Yun , Wu Jian Hui , Guo Long Yuan
Published: October 2015

Fingerprint image feature extraction is a critical step to fingerprint recognition system, which studies topological structure, mathematical model and extraction algorithm of fingerprint feature. This paper presents system design and realization of feature extraction algorithm for fingerprint image. On the basis of fingerprint skeleton image, feature points including ending points, bifurcation points and singular points are extracted at first. Then false feature points are detected and eliminated by the violent changes of ambient orientation field. True feature points are marked at last. Test result shows that the method presented has good accuracy, quick speed and strong robustness for realtime application.
Image Retrieval Based on the Characteristics of Concentric Circular Regions
Authors: Li Zhong Sheng , Huan Tong Cheng , Li Xu Dong , Tian Xiao Lu
Published: October 2015

Color is one of the important characteristics in visual perception. But color histograms used commonly loses spatial distribution information while obtains the statistical feature of image color. This paper provides an algorithm, the region partitioning algorithm based on concentric circles, that synthesizes the color, texture and space information to extract features of image. It evidently improves the precision of retrieval and achieve better performance.
Non-Western Script Based Off-Line Handwritten Signature Technology: A Survey
Authors: Ubul Kurban , Ablikim Rayima , Yadikar Nurbiya , Zunun Mavjuda
Published: October 2015

Recognition and verification systems plays very critical role in the area of information security as they are very essential to user certification. In resent years, off-line signature recognition and verification receiving renewed interest and only one of several techniques used to verify the identities of individuals, also that one of the biometric techniques. Signatures offer a secure means for confirmation and authorization in legal documents. Thus, nowadays the signature identification and verification becomes an indispensable part for including embedded signatures of automating the rapid processing of documents. Researchers have been proposed various approaches for handwritten signature recognition and verification in the past years. This paper presents a survey for non-western handwritten signature based offline signature verification and identification. In this area, the accuracy rates obtained so far from the available systems is not sufficiently high, and more researches on off-line signature verification as well as off-line signature identification are required.
Leaf Boundary Extraction with a Wind Noise Method
Authors: Li Bei Bei , Zhao Zhi Hong
Published: October 2015

This paper presents a method to extract leaf boundary from its 2D image. To solve this problem we firstly perform boundary feature extraction, based on which the key points on the boundary can be sampled and accordingly positioned in their geometry coordinates. Secondly, the leafs boundary configuration may be modeled with a wind noise method. Its amplitude development allows a linear sine function behaviors. The corresponding sampled points amplitudes in this model can be calculated according to their actual coordinates. Thirdly, to achieve better results to extract the discussed leaf boundary from its initial image, the model has to be self-optimized and self-improved ability by using a genetic algorithm.
A New Image Irradiance Equation for Perspective Shape from Shading of Hybrid Surfaces
Authors: Wang Guo Hui , Cheng Jin , Wei Quan Rui
Published: October 2015

Shape from shading (SFS) is a classical and important problem in the domain of computer vision. This paper presents a new image irradiance equation for perspective SFS method to reconstruct the hybrid surfaces that have both diffuse reflection and specular reflection. The hybrid reflectance model composed of a linear combination of Oren-Nayar model and Ward model is used to express the hybrid surfaces. An imaging model incorporating near point light source, perspective camera projection and the hybrid reflectance model is established. Under this model, the image irradiance equation has been derived as a non-linear partial differential equation (PDE). The resulting PDE is associated with a static Hamilton-Jacobi (H-J) equation considering the boundary conditions. Thus, the image irradiance equation of hybrid surfaces can be solved further.
A Ship Detection Model in Optical Satellite Image
Authors: Hu Xiao Guang , Cheng Cheng Qi , Li De Ren
Published: October 2015

In this paper, we propose a novel ship detection model based on multi-cue visual attention mechanism, which include two steps. Firstly, the model acquires salient candidate regions across entire scene by using a bottom-up visual attention cue. The cue is saliency analysis method based on visual contrast. Then, a analysis method based on the environment around the ship is used to distinguish between ship and harbor.The method dont use the shape, edge or other forms of features of the ship objects. The ship detection results prove our method can effectively concentrate on the objects with greater contrast and distinguish between ship and harbor.
Covariance Tracking Algorithm on Bilateral Filtering under Lie Group Structure
Authors: Xie Ying Hong , Wu Cheng Dong
Published: October 2015

The existing object tracking method using covariance modeling is hard to reach the desired tracking performance when the deformation of moving target and illumination changes are drastic, we proposed a object tracking algorithm based on bilateral filtering. Firstly, the algorithm deals the image to be tracked with bilateral filtering, and extracts the needed features of filtered image to construct covariance matrix as tracking model. Secondly, under log-Euclidean Riemannian metric, we construct similarity measure for object covariance matrix and model updating strategy. Extensive experiments show that the proposed method has better adaptability for object deformation and illumination changes.
Triangle Rasterizer Based on the Barycentric Arithmetic
Authors: Tao You Long
Published: October 2015

A triangle rasterizer features the barycentric arithmetic for rasterization operation in graphics processors is introduced in this paper. First, the common method for triangle rasterization is presented, and its drawbacks of lacking simplicity and introducing accumutive errors are highlighted. Then, the new approach using the barycentric arithmetic is discussed in detail, including finding the pixels belong to the triangle and interpolating attributes for these pixels. At the basis of that, the hardware structure of the rasterizer is proposed with elaboration of the bounding rectangle establishment and the pipelined divider in it. At last, the RTL simulation result of the proposed rasterizer is given and analyzed, which has shown that the rasterizer can generate pixels efficiently and accurately.
An Optimized Video Capture and Preprocessing Strategy Based on FPGA
Authors: Jiang Hong Xu , Li Hui Yong , Zhang Ping , Zhai Dong Lin
Published: October 2015

The video capture and preprocessing is the basis of video process system. This paper analyzes the timing of video capture by Camera Link interface based on FPGA, and proposed an automatic error detection approach to avoid error accumulation during the video data capture. Furthermore, by adopting the optimized LUT and pipeline addition, an optimized method for RGB to YCbCr color space conversion (CSC) is presented specifically for the video format preprocessing. Experimental results demonstrate that the strategy we proposed is of high reliability, and it could obtain maximum operation frequency of 334MHz, 3.16 times faster than the direct method.
The Satellite Attitude Control Law Design Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Sun Guo Jiang , Li Jin Hui , Chen Shi Ming , Dong Yun Feng
Published: October 2015

Traditional optimization algorithms can only optimize parameters in control laws. Machine learning method can optimize parameters and evolve satellite attitude control law automatically under certain criterion. Single axis satellite attitude simulation system with noise was built up, which included satellite attitude dynamic model, sensors and actuators model. The control laws inputs were attitude error, attitude errors integral and angular velocity error, and outputs were actuators control instructions. Control laws fitness function was an attitude errors statistical function. With suitable function set selected for genetic programming (GP) and parse tree used to represent a control law expression, GP was used to evolve control law expression automatically. Simulation result shows that this method can evolve control law with uncertainties noise better. The evolved control law response and control precision are better than PID, and it can be used in satellite attitude control.
On Fuzzy Abundant Semigroups
Authors: Li Chun Hua
Published: October 2015

In this paper, The notions of fuzzy abundant semigroups and fuzzy weakly abundant semigroups were introduced. On this base, some properties of fuzzy abundant semigroups and fuzzy weakly abundant semigroups were given, and some results on such semigroups were obtained.
Estimation on Unknown Function of a Class of Generalized Nonlinear Volterra-Fredholm Type Difference Inequality with Iterative Summation
Authors: Wang Wu Sheng , Zhou Xiao Liang
Published: October 2015

The main objective of this paper is to establish a class of new nonlinear Volterra-Fredholm type difference inequality with iterative summation. By technique of change of variable, amplification method, difference and summation and inverse function, Upper bound estimations of unknown functions in the difference inequality are given. Finally, we study the estimation of the solution of a class of Volterra-Fredholm difference equation by our derived results..
The Dielectric Property of Y2NiMnO6 Ceramics Sintered at High Temperature
Authors: Sareein Thanapong , Deeyai Panakamon , Putasaeng Bundit , Chathirat Naphat
Published: October 2015

The high dielectric permittivity of Y2NiMnO6 ceramics were measured by Agilent E4294A (Impedance Measurement) range of frequency 100 to 10 MHz in this research. In this sample ceramics, passing by a sintering temperature of 1400°C at 6 hours to 24 hours. The phase and microstructure of the deposited materials were investigated as a function of sintering temperature, using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). We found that the dielectric properties are very sensitive to the several sintered follow by time, and high temperature can be related to the change ordering of Ni2+ and Mn4+ ions.
Physical and Mechanical Properties of Cement/Natural Rubber Latex/Rice Husk Ash Composites
Authors: Jaitanong Nittaya , Chaipunti Tanapong
Published: October 2015

The microstructure and mechanical properties of Portland cement (PC)- natural rubber latex (NRL)- rice husk ash (RHA) composites have been investigated. The proportions of PC-NRL-RHA composites with NRL to cement ratio (NRL/C) that use in this experiment were 0, 0.10, 0.15 and 0.20 respectively. Portland cement (PC) was partially replaced with rice husk ash at 20% by weight of binder. The rice husk ash (RHA) was ground for 180 minutes before using. Water to cement ratio (W/C) equal of 0.5 by weight not include water in NRL. Nonionic surfactant was added in cement before mixed with NRL. In addition, to provide latex from natural rubber, the ammonia solution is added into natural rubber. The specimens were casting in standard mold which samples size of 50x50x50 and 40x40x160 mm3 respectively. Moreover, the PC-NRL-RHA composites were cured in water for 3, 7 and 28 days at room temperature before measurement. Then, mechanical properties (compressive strength and flexural strength) and microstructure were studied.
Optical Microarray Grating Biosensors
Authors: Chathirat Naphat , Hruanun Charndet , Poyai Amporn
Published: October 2015

An optical biosensor based on a grating to be utilized for the detection of DNA target molecules was fabricated by photolithographic techniques. The sensor surface implements a grating to create a low effective refractive index platform via the combination of Si3N4and SiO2which allows the detection via changes of the reflectivity spectra. The active surface carried a layer of probe biomolecules for specific binding of the target DNA. Immobilization of the probe molecules was carried out via streptavidin using biotin modified ssDNA complementary to the target ssDNA. When molecules attached to the surface of the device, the position of the reflectance spectrum shifted due to the change of the optical path of light that is coupled into the grating structure. The extent of the wavelength shift of the peaks could be used to quantify the amount of materials bound to the sensor surface thereby allowing detection of the surface modifications as well as the quantification of the DNA analyte. The advantages of this device are that it works with a small sample volumes (few microlitres), are integratable in micro array type of setups and can be used at room temperature.
Assessment of Heavy Metal Content in PM10 at Amphoe Mueang Pathum Thani Province in Thailand
Authors: Deelaman Woranuch , Choomchuay Chutamas
Published: October 2015

Pathumthani is a metropolitan area where has a lot of industries and agricultures. The aim of this work was to study the assessment of heavy metal content in PM10 (particulate matter ≤ 10 mm) at Amphoe Muang Pathumthani Province. The samples of PM10 (particulate matter ≤ 10 mm) were collected in 7 stations during February to March 2013. The particles were trapped on glass fiber filters using high volume samplers. The concentration of heavy metals was evaluated by using the Inductively Coupled Plasma - Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). The results showed that the concentration of heavy metals in PM10 was BDL-0.41 µg/m3. Zinc, a heavy metal, was found in every sampling station. The order-average concentration of heavy metals in atmospheric air, at Amphoe Muang Pathumthani, was Zn > Cu > Mn > Ba > Ni > Cd.
Study of Moisture of Rice by Using Reflection Spectroscopy
Authors: Wittinanon Thanyapon , Chirapatpimol Khem
Published: October 2015

The objective of this research was to study the relationship between the spectrum intensity and moisture content of milled rice by using Reflection Spectroscopy at the wavelength between 340-800 nm. The results showed that different rice species with different ages have different spectrum patterns. The knowledge on the optical properties can be applied to determine the moisture content and the mixing ratio of each type of rice in a rice mixture.
Application of the Ensemble Kalman Filter to a One-Dimensional Linear Advection Model
Authors: Payakkarak Somsiri , Sukawat Dusadee
Published: October 2015

Data assimilation is used in numerical weather prediction to improve weather forecasts by incorporating observation data into the model forecast. The Ensemble Kalman Filter (EnKF) is a method of data assimilation which updates an ensemble of states to provide a state estimate and associated error at each step. The atmospheric model that is used in this research is a one-dimensional linear advection model. This model describes the motion of a scalar field as it is advected by a known speed field. The result shows that by selecting appropriate initial ensemble, model noise and measurement perturbations, it is possible to achieve a significant improvement in the EnKF results. The accuracy of the EnKF increases when the number of ensemble member grows. That is, the larger ensemble sizes perform better than those of smaller sizes.
A Comparison of Statistical Methods for Forecasting the Price of Jasmine Rice
Authors: Atikankul Yupapin
Published: October 2015

The objective of this study is to compare five forecasting statistical methods on the price of Jasmine rice. These methods are Simple Exponential Smoothing method, Holt’s method, Holt–Winter’s method, Box–Jenkins method and combined forecast based on regression method. All methods are tested on the data collection of the monthly series of the price of Jasmine rice from January 2007 to December 2012 recorded by the Bank of Thailand. By using the mean square error (MSE) and the mean absolute percent error (MAPE), the Holt’s method is the most promising method. In addition, Government and authorities should use this result for forecasting the price of Jasmine rice.
Effect of Sintering Parameter on Ferroelectric Properties in PZT Based Ceramics
Authors: Promjun Tanabat , Manjit Yongyut , Sukprasong Saksit , Ngamjarurojana Athipong
Published: October 2015

This research was conducted to improve the ferroelectric properties of PZT based ceramics by studying the effect of sintering conditions in terms of temperature and soaking time (time of sintering) on the ferroelectric properties of ceramics in the 0.8Pb (Zr1/2Ti1/2)O3-0.2Pb (Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 system prepared by vibro-milling mixed-oxide method. The XRD patterns of specimens showed perovskite structure for all compositions. The pyrochlore phase was not observed in this system. The sintering temperature and soaking time affects the ferroelectric properties of ceramics by the optimum sintering condition for 0.8PZT-0.2PZN ceramic is sintered at 1250°C for 2h.
Solidification Simulation of Parts with Rotational Symmetry Using 2D Software in Cylindrical Coordinates
Authors: Bedő Tibor , Varga Béla , Ionescu Ionuţ , Ciobanu Ioan , Crişan Aurel , Munteanu Sorin Ion
Published: October 2015

Solidification simulation software was developed, for parts having rotational symmetry cast of eutectic alloys or pure metals. The software uses a finite differences mathematical model described in cylindrical coordinates. Unlike software in Cartesian coordinates, it allows the solidification simulation for three dimensional parts with rotational symmetry using 2D simulation. As result the effective simulation time is much smaller (tens or even hundreds of times) in comparison with simulation in Cartesian coordinates. Cylindrical coordinates have the advantage of allowing a precise reproduction of the round contour parts. The paper presents the experimental verification of the results provided by the software. Experimental verification is performed by thermal analysis. A cylindrical sample with a diameter D = 60 mm and length L = 150mm was cast. The part was cast in Al-Si eutectic alloy (ATSi12). The temperature variation inside casting was recorded in three points: in the center, at the distance 1/2R and on the part surface. The experimental results were compared with those determined by computer solidification simulation. The values for liquid alloy initial temperature and for landing eutectic temperature used in simulation were chose accordingly to those experimentally determined for each point separately. The temperature variation curves during casting cooling and solidification obtained by simulation are close to those experimentally determined. The curves approaching in the first part (cooling in liquid state and solidification) can be appreciated as very good. Small differences appear in the final of the curves in the cooling area after the complete solidification of the alloy in that point. The experiment revealed that the tested software provide accurate data on castings solidification (solidification time and temperature distribution). As result, the software developed by the authors from Transilvania University, can be used with enough accuracy for fundamental and applied researches related to castings solidification.
Wettability of Silicon Carbide Particles by the Aluminium Melts in Producing Al-SiC Composites
Authors: Noori Muna , Chisamera Mihai , Faleh Hazim , Ştefănescu Florin , Neagu Gigel
Published: October 2015

The paper is a synthesis of essential data regarding the wetting conditions in aluminium – silicon carbide mixtures. Non wetting conditions between the reinforcing element and the matrix turns difficult the incorporation of particles in the aluminium melt. The wettability depends on several elements, like the presence of the oxide layer at the melt surface, temperature, pressure or shape of the complementary material. To improve wetting conditions, several measures are necessary: alloying of the melt with surface active elements, overheating of the melt; coating of the particles with a metallic thin layer. Also, by using existing data reported in the field, some parameters were calculated and interpreted.
Aspects Regarding the Characterization of the Gouged Surface
Authors: Fazakas Barna , Seculin Radu Cristian , Machedon-Pisu Teodor , Pop Alin
Published: October 2015

The paper presents results of the researches conducted upon the use of the arc-air gouging process with coated electrodes, in comparison with the plasma gouging process, in case of the welded structures. The paper aims at submitting the arc-air gouging technologies with electrodes and the plasma gouging technologies. The research consists in gouging a structural steel, of the quality S275JR and in comparing the surfaces obtained by the enumerated processes. The obtained samples will be analyzed in terms of microstructure, macrostructure, hardness of the thermally influenced area, hardness of the gouged area.The gouging process is based on melting the raw material, with an electric arc achieved between an electrode and the raw material; and on removing the melt material with a compressed-air jet, in the case of the arc-air gouging and plasma gouging. The gouging with coated electrode is different, given that it requires special electrodes, with thick flux cover, in order to generate an electric arc and a strong gas flux. During the gouging process, the raw material will be oxidized; yet, this does not influence the process. The gouging process can be either manual or automated. In this paper, the manual variant will be submitted, in the case of the arc-air gouging technology and the gouging with coated electrodes; in the case of the plasma gouging, both variants will be submitted.
Aspects Regarding the Achievement of Vertical Welding Joints
Authors: Seculin Radu Cristian , Fazakas Barna , Machedon Pisu Teodor , Pop Mihai Alin
Published: October 2015

The vertical MAG welding procedure is a difficult position to be executed because the trend of the molten bath flowing. This article aims to present the achievement of vertical welding joints with a linear device with a radial oscillation system that should achieve automatic vertical welds and the correlation of the welding parameters with the movement of the welding torch in order to obtain these, using the MAG procedure, protective gas M 21 (82% argon + 18% CO2), welding wire SG2, the material of the welded pieces S 355 JR. Samples will be cut from the welded steel plates and they will be characterized from the mechanical point of view (hardness, microstructure and macrostructure).
Experimental Study on Cutting Forces at Ti6Al4V Milling
Authors: Popovici Tabita Dana , Ciocan Ion
Published: October 2015

In this paper is presented an experiment whose aim is to determine the cutting forces that appear when machining Ti6Al4V titanium alloy, in order to optimize its working rate and productivity. This experiment uses carbide coated milling tools for milling titanium alloy. It has studied the influence that milling parameters have upon the three dimensional cutting forces. The equipment which was used included stationary dynamometer for measuring cutting forces, with piezoelectric transducers. The cutting force model is developed in terms of cutting speed, feed rate, axial depth and length of milling (radial depth), with values established according to response surface methodology in intervals from the specialised literature. Titanium alloys are a continuous challenge. This paper is important because is getting relevant results for improving manufacturing efficiency.
Health-Improved Textiles Obtained by Heat Surface Ecodyeing Treatments
Authors: Coman Diana , Vrînceanu Narcisa , Cipăian Remus Călin
Published: October 2015

The central idea of the present research aims at achieving textile substrates through an efficient inclusion of a wild black cherry extract into the grafting agent-monochlorotriazinyl-β-cyclodextrin (MCT-β-CD). The methodology consists in a permanent/irreversible entrapment onto the fibres surface of the natural extract through inclusion mechanism. Exhaustion and sonication dyeing procedures were used alternatively. The obtained materials were characterized, by FT-IR and BET analysis. The experimental results reveal good adsorptive feature of the samples, due to a higher specific surface created by the inclusion complex (MCT-β-CD-dye pigment). An efficient blocking of the natural dye pigment molecules into the grafting agent’s cavity (MCT-β-CD), assumed both a stable dyeing and antimicrobial potential. The results obtained by this ecologic surface grafting method will contribute to novel key points in producing healthy natural textiles, as alternatives for single use textiles. The results provided by this research will be used as starting point for a future study targeting the obtaining of textile supports with antimicrobial performance. Other investigations like washing, rubbing and colour fastness, highlighted that dyeing treatment by sonication is extremely efficient and could be successfully applied to such items, in boosting developments.
Theoretical Approaches Regarding the Gasodynamic Phenomena in Asymmetric Flows
Authors: Cîrciu Ionică , Dinea Sorin , Geamăn Virgil
Published: October 2015

Despite the numerous theoretical and experimental studies carried out throughout the years, the use of the Coanda effect in the propulsion-related field definitely remains one of the most current discussion topics since no definite conclusion has been drawn yet regarding the capabilities, applications and performances of the devices based on the Coanda effect. The present paper sets out to present the theoretical quantitative and qualitative aspects of the most important uses of the Coanda phenomenon, including the author’s own interpretations and ideas.
Bending Behavior of a Microgripper Compliant Joint Arm
Authors: Despa Veronica , Catangiu Adrian , Ivan Alexandru Ioan , Cîrstoiu Carmen Adriana , Ungureanu Dan Nicolae
Published: October 2015

For the mathematical modeling of the bending behavior on a microgripper compliant arm it is necessary to estimate the compliance impact on the system. In case of low bending force values, the linear dependence between force and elastic deformation is presumed. After performing bending experiments on full section and, respectively, compliant arms, there was determined an elastic coefficient allowing the mathematical modeling of the compliant beam as a full section beam and a moment of inertia reduced proportionally to the calculated elastic coefficient. The modeling results are consistent with the results of the experiments performed on the prototype.
Direct Carburization of Tungsten Trioxide by Mechanical Alloying
Authors: Stanciu Victor Ioan , Vitry Véronique , Delaunois Fabienne
Published: October 2015

Tungsten carbide is the choice of predilection for producing parts requiring good wear resistance. In this context it is produced in large quantities by the carburization of tungsten trioxide under a stream of hydrogen at elevated temperature followed by grinding to achieve the required fineness. This work aims to study the conditions in which tungsten carbide can be produced by mechanical alloying method. Using this method would facilitate obtaining carbide through a simple and easy to use technology without prohibitive costs, directly by an end user. For this purpose the thermodynamic study is conducted to establish the conditions under which the carburizing reaction can take place. The condition for the reaction to occur spontaneously is reaching a temperature of 621°C. Carrying out this reaction in a system without external energy input seems impossible. Mechanical alloying experiments were carried out in a Fritch Pulverisette 7 premium line planetary mill, equipped with two bowls of 80ml capacity lined with sintered tungsten carbide. Each bowl contained 200 g of tungsten carbide balls with dimensions of 10 mm and 12 mm. The balls/load ratio was 10:1. Grinding was performed in steps of 3 hours, with breaks for sampling, with rotation speeds of 600 and 800 rpm. Tests conducted showed complete conversion of raw materials into tungsten carbide after different durations of time.
Parametric Optimization of Some Non-Conventional Machining Processes Using MOORA Method
Authors: Khan Akhtar , Maity Kalipada
Published: October 2015

Non-conventional manufacturing techniques are most widely used in industries in order to achieve high accuracy and desirable product quality. Therefore, the selection of an appropriate machining parameter has become a crucial job before starting the operation. Several optimization methods are available to resolve the upstairs situation. The current study explores a novel technique namely multi-objective optimization on the basis of ratio analysis (MOORA) to solve different multi-objective problems that are encountered in the real-time manufacturing industries. This study focuses on the application of MOORA method for solving some non-conventional machining processes that have multiple criteria problems. Wire-Electric Discharge Machining (WEDM), Plasma Arc Cutting (PAC), Electro Chemical Micro Machining (ECMM), Electro Chemical Machining (ECM), Abrasive Jet Machining (AJM), Abrasive Water Jet Machining (AWJM), Ultrasonic Machining (USM), Laser Beam Machining (LBM) and Laser cutting process are the major attentions in the current study. Total nine NTM multi-criteria problems which include selection of proper machining parameters have been studied. The optimal settings of input variables obtained by using MOORA method nearly tie with those derived by the earlier investigators.
Performance Analysis of Wavelet Packet Transform Based De-Noising Receiver for Visible Light Communication by Using Single Source
Authors: Prabakaran M.P. , Sivasubramanian A. , Jawahar A. , Chitra K.
Published: October 2015

In this paper, wavelet packet transform (WPT) based de-noising receiver for visible-light communication (VLC) using a white light-emitting diode (LED) is studied for indoor applications such as short distance wireless connectivity, optical wireless local area network, and optical wireless input / output control devise (remote control). Previously, reported discrete wavelet transform based de-noising for indoor optical wireless communication; here we considered wavelet packet transform based de-noising technique. The process starts with the evaluation of the performance of de-noising receiver by calculating the received optical power, signal noise ratio (SNR), path loss and bit error rate (BER). Throughout the simulation results, the SNR performance is inversely proportional to the distance. Analytical study of SNR for VLC system without de-noising for indoor applications has been studied. In this paper de-noising technique is considered for reduction of noise. The DWPT based de-noising receiver, with a single source improves the SNR performance approximately by 2% compared to the one without de-noising receiver.
Evolution of Stresses in the Bolted Connection Node of Viscoelastic Composite Plates
Authors: Gorokhov Aleksandr Yu. , Trufanov Nikolai A.
Published: October 2015

Orthotropic viscoelastic plates’ connection with made open bolt has been studied. Ends of plates are loaded with constant equally spaced tension. The problem has been solved in three-dimensional statement in the frames of linear theory of viscoelasticity. Solution has been done by the method of quasi constant operators with finite-element realization. The picture of stress state connection evolution at time-constant external load has been obtained. The estimation of connection limiting stress has been done in the frames of A.A.Ilyushin’s limiting stress theory. The possibility of joint immobility disturbance in the course of time has been defined. Unsafe stress as well as the values of constant external action and characteristic time of strength failure occurrence has been determined.
Experimental Study of Nonlinear Effects under Torsion of the Uniform Cylinder with Initially Circular Cross Section
Authors: Bachurikhin V.P. , Keller I.E. , Merzlyakov A.F. , Yurlov M.A.
Published: October 2015

The results of experiments related to torsion of uniform cylindrical specimen at the fixed length between the specimens ends are presented in this paper. Axial stress has been found, initially stretching and then compressing the sample which has an oscillatory component with the period of one turn. Reasons of this nonlinear effect that are not described in the references are discussed here.
Agglomeration Technologies of Processing Powder Wastes
Authors: Peciar Marian , Fekete Roman , Peciar Peter
Published: October 2015

This article deals with the presentation of modern applications for processing powdered, primarily hazardous, waste to an agglomeration form appropriate for subsequent processing by classical methods, for example in the construction, automotive and consumer goods industries. The aim of the research work was to set appropriate operating conditions in order to appreciate currently non-processable wastes resulting from the intensive production of often extremely expensive materials. Technologies which enable returning powder waste back into the primary production cycle were developed and experimentally tested, thus saving raw material resources. When necessary for the fixing of fine airborne particles with a problematic compacting curve (hard to compress, repulsive due to the surface charge) extrusion processes using a patented technology enabling controlled modification of shear forces in the extrusion zone were successfully applied. A new type of axial extruder allows the elimination of the liquid phase and as a result prevents the clogging of the extrusion chamber. In the case of need for granulation of sensitive materials (for example pharmaceuticals not allowing the addition of any kind of agglomerating fluid or reacting strongly in the contact of the two phases), a process of compaction between rolls with different profiled surface was successfully applied. The developed high technologies and the resulting products thus represent a major contribution to environmental protection in the context of not only the work but also the communal environment.
Surface Analysis of Plastic Materials PET by XPS Method
Authors: Kanuchova Maria , Kozáková Ľubica , Brezani Ivan
Published: October 2015

The motivation for this study was the increasing need of recycling waste plastics in the cleanest - separated form. Relatively inexpensive methods of physicochemical separation of plastics is based on the different wettability of their surfaces. Because most used polymers are relatively highly hydrophobic, which would lead to their collective flotation in water, the study was aimed for the selective suppression of the hydrophobic character - hydrophilization of one of the most common plastics, which is PET. XPS method gave interesting information about the actual mechanism of the chemical reactions at the PET surface, which was changed by the alkaline hydrolysis.
Patent Ductus Arteriosus and Pulmonary Artery Aneurism in a Child Affected by Loeys-Dietz Syndrome
Authors: Marcì Marcello
Published: October 2015

We report the case of a 3-year old girl affected by Loeys-Dietz syndrome, a rare association of aneurysms and tortuosity of arteries associated to hypertelorism and cleft palate that was firstly described by Loeys and Dietz in 2005. The patient developed aneurysms of aortic root and of pulmonary artery, besides a patent ductus arteriosus was evidenced. We also reviewed the current literature concerning the aetiology and management of this syndrome.
Settling distances of benthic invertebrates in a sediment mobilization simulation in semi-natural flumes
Authors: Bruno Maria C. , Carolli Mauro , Maiolini Bruno
Published: October 2015

Drift time and distance depend on the ability of the drifting invertebrates to alter their body posture or by swimming, and these behaviors may change according to the local hydraulic environment, resulting in different distances travelled before exiting the drift. Such drift and settlement mediated invertebrate movement determine dispersal processes and ultimately generates distribution patterns within streams. We conducted an experiment in an open-air, artificial flume system directly fed by an Alpine stream, where we disturbed the sediment in the flumes, inducing catastrophic drift in the benthic community, and then assessed the settlement distances of benthic invertebrates. For each flume, we collected drift samples by disturbing the substrate at 1.5 m intervals, at increasing distance from the downstream end, for a total of 7 disturbances and a maximum settling distance of 10 m in each flume, with five replicates (i.e., five flumes) for each disturbance. The disturbances induced a massive catastrophic drift in Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera, always higher than the behaviorally-occurring basedrift. The Settling Index calculated over the total drift collected at each distance increased with increasing distance, and after 10 m, 90% of the drifting animals had settled. Evenness and taxa richness progressively decrease with increasing settling distance. All drifting taxa were represented mainly by young instars. We used the drift collected at 1 m from the disturbance to standardize the remaining samples, based on the assumption that 1 m is not a distance long enough to allow animals to settle at that water velocity. We calculated the percentage of possible drifters which settled by computing a Settling Index for each taxon. The drifting taxa listed by decreasing Settling Index scores were Epeorus sp., Rhithrogena semicolorata, Isoperla spp., Sericostoma spp., Ecdyonurus spp., Nemoura spp., Leuctra spp., Baetis spp., Hydropsyche spp., Rhyacophila spp. We have shown, in accordance with numerous other studies, that entrained EPT nymphs travel only short distances before returning to the substratum, and that the actual distance travelled while drifting and the total time spent in drift varies between species. The results of this study can provide suggestions to assess taxon-specific availability to colonization which generates distribution patterns within streams and, on a smaller scale (i.e., flume simulations), our results can be extrapolated to other studies conducted in artificial flumes, or to support evidences from field studies.
Responsibility: A case for the homeless in the City of Tshwane
Authors: Baron Eugene
Published: October 2015

It is without doubt that the marginalised and destitute, such as homeless people, need all the help they can get to un-shackle them from poverty-stricken circumstances. Yet the reverse side of this is that marginalised, homeless people can become too dependent on such interventions, without taking responsibility for their future outcomes and consequences. The article reports on a contextual Bible study that was conducted with the homeless people in the city of Tshwane, specifically how they responded to the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9–13. Bringing their responses in conversation with the voices of theologians, the themes emerging from the encounter are discussed. Bonhoeffer’s theory of a responsible life is used as a theoretical framework. The author suggests that the homeless people as well as other relevant role players should take responsibility for the occurrence of homelessness in the city of Tshwane, South Africa, and offer solutions so as to eradicate this phenomenon in the future.
Genetically Targeted Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitor Use in a Patient with a Novel Mutation of MODY type 4
Authors: Mangrum Christian , Rush Eric , Shivaswamy Vijay
Published: October 2015

Maturity onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is a rare form of diabetes mellitus typically seen in young adults that results from pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction. MODY4 is a rare subtype caused by a PDX1 mutation. In this case, we present a nonobese 26-year-old male with polyuria and polydipsia. Lab work showed a blood glucose of 511 mg/dL, no ketones or antibodies (insulin, islet cell, and glutamic acid decarboxylase [GAD]), C-peptide of 1.6 ng/mL, and A1c 9.3%. Genetic analysis revealed a novel nonsense mutation in the PDX1 gene, consistent with MODY type 4. Given this patient's particular genetic mutation affecting the incretin pathway, sitagliptin was substituted for glyburide, which led to significant improvement in glycemic control. Our case report identifies a unique mutation in a rare form of MODY and outlines management of ensuing diabetes through targeting its inherent genetic mutation.
Overview of the Benzene and Other Toxics Exposure (BEE-TEX) Field Study
Authors: Olaguer Eduardo P.
Published: October 2015

The Benzene and other Toxics Exposure (BEE-TEX) field study was an experimental campaign designed to demonstrate novel methods for measuring ambient concentrations of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) in real time and to attribute these concentrations to quantified releases from specific emission points in industrial facilities while operating outside facility fence lines. BEE-TEX was conducted in February 2015 at three neighboring communities in the Houston Ship Channel of Texas, where a large number of petrochemical facilities are concentrated. The novel technologies deployed during BEE-TEX included: (1) tomographic remote sensing based on differential optical absorption spectroscopy; (2) real-time broadcasting of ambient air monitoring data over the World Wide Web; (3) real-time source attribution and quantification of HAP emissions based on either tomographic or mobile measurement platforms; and (4) the use of cultured human lung cells in vitro as portable indicators of HAP exposure.
Safe Implementation of Computerized Provider Order Entry for Adult Oncology
Authors: Kaemingk D. , Frieze D. , Hendrie P. , Payne T.H. , Martin D.B.
Published: October 2015

Background: Oncology has lagged in CPOE adoption due to the narrow therapeutic index of chemotherapy drugs, individualized dosing based on weight and height, regimen complexity, and workflows that include hard stops where safety checks are performed and documented.

Objectives: We sought to establish CPOE for chemotherapy ordering and administration in an academic teaching institution using a commercially available CPOE system.

Methods: A commercially available CPOE system was implemented throughout the hospital. A multidisciplinary team identified key safety gaps that required the development of a customized complex order display and a verification documentation workflow. Staff reported safety events were monitored for two years and compared to the year prior to go live.

Results: A workflow was enabled to capture real-time provider verification status during the time from ordering to the administration of chemotherapy. A customized display system was embedded in the EMR to provide a single screen view of the relevant parameters of chemotherapy doses including current and previous patient measurements of height and weight, dose adjustments, provider verifications, prior chemotherapy regimens, and a synopsis of the standard regimen for reference. Our system went live with 127 chemotherapy plans and has been expanded to 189. Staff reported safety events decreased following implementation, particularly in the area of prescribing and transcribing by the second year of use.

Conclusions: We observed reduced staff reported safety events following implementation of CPOE for inpatient chemotherapy using an electronic verification workflow and an embedded custom clinical decision support page. This implementation demonstrates that CPOE can be safely used for inpatient chemotherapy, even in an extremely complex environment.
Choice of Foreign R&D Entry Mode and Its Relation to Firm Performance: A Firm-level Analysis for Switzerland and Austria
Authors: Hollenstein Heinz , Berger Martin
Published: October 2015

The objective of this study is to identify the determinants of a firm’s foreign entry mode choice and the relationship between mode selection and firm performance for the specific case of R&D—a topic not yet investigated in entry mode research. Separate estimates of a Heckman selection model for Austria and Switzerland based on comparable firm-level data and variable specification show for both countries that the OLI model is well-suited to explain not only the propensity to invest in R&D abroad but also the related choice between an equity-based and a non-equity governance mode. Moreover, the research reveals that foreign R&D activity is positively related to firm performance and that this relationship is stronger in the case of an equity-based mode of governance, however only in the Swiss case. The differences between the two countries primarily reflect the much higher degree of internationalisation of the Swiss economy.

Data available upon request (see the following link): http://www.economics-ejournal.org/economics/journalarticles/2015-34/dataavailability-2015-34/view
The incorporation of an organic soil layer in the Noah-MP Land Surface Model and its evaluation over a Boreal Aspen Forest
Authors: Chen L. , Li Y. , Chen F. , Barr A. , Barlage M. , Wan B.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. In this study, the multi-parameterization version of the Noah land-surface model (Noah-MP) was used to investigate the impact of adding a forest-floor organic soil layer on the simulated surface energy and water cycle components at a boreal aspen forest. The test site selected is BERMS Old Aspen Flux (OAS) field station in central Saskatchewan, Canada. The selection of different parameterization schemes for each process within the current Noah-MP model significantly affected the simulation results. The best combination options without incorporating organic soil is referred as the control experiment (CTL). By including an organic-soil parameterization within the Noah-MP model for the first time, the verification results (OGN) against site show significantly improved performance of the model in surface energy fluxes and hydrology simulation due to the lower thermal conductivity and greater porosity of the organic soil. The effects of including an organic soil layer on soil temperature are not uniform throughout the soil depth and year, and those effects are more prominent in summer and in deep soils. For drought years, the OGN simulation substantially modified the partition between direct soil evaporation and vegetation transpiration. For wet years, the OGN simulated latent heat fluxes are similar to CTL except for spring season where OGN produced less evaporation. The impact of the organic soil on sub-surface runoff is substantive with much higher runoff throughout the season.