bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synchronization transition in neuronal networks composed of chaotic or non-chaotic oscillators
Authors: Xu Kesheng , Maidana Jean Paul , Castro Samy , Orio Patricio
Published: May 2018

Chaotic dynamics has been shown in the dynamics of neurons and neural networks, in experimental data and numerical simulations. Theoretical studies have proposed an underlying role of chaos in neural systems. Nevertheless, whether chaotic neural oscillators make a significant contribution to network behaviour and whether the dynamical richness of neural networks is sensitive to the dynamics of isolated neurons, still remain open questions. We investigated synchronization transitions in heterogeneous neural networks of neurons connected by electrical coupling in a small world topology. The nodes in our model are oscillatory neurons that – when isolated – can exhibit either chaotic or non-chaotic behaviour, depending on conductance parameters. We found that the heterogeneity of firing rates and firing patterns make a greater contribution than chaos to the steepness of the synchronization transition curve. We also show that chaotic dynamics of the isolated neurons do not always make a visible difference in the transition to full synchrony. Moreover, macroscopic chaos is observed regardless of the dynamics nature of the neurons. However, performing a Functional Connectivity Dynamics analysis, we show that chaotic nodes can promote what is known as multi-stable behaviour, where the network dynamically switches between a number of different semi-synchronized, metastable states.
QED cascade saturation in extreme high fields
Authors: Luo Wen , Liu Wei-Yuan , Yuan Tao , Chen Min , Yu Ji-Ye , Li Fei-Yu , Del Sorbo D. , Ridgers C. P. , Sheng Zheng-Ming
Published: May 2018

Upcoming ultrahigh power lasers at 10 PW level will make it possible to experimentally explore electron-positron (e−e+) pair cascades and subsequent relativistic e−e+ jets formation, which are supposed to occur in extreme astrophysical environments, such as black holes, pulsars, quasars and gamma-ray bursts. In the latter case it is a long-standing question as to how the relativistic jets are formed and what their temperatures and compositions are. Here we report simulation results of pair cascades in two counter-propagating QED-strong laser fields. A scaling of QED cascade growth with laser intensity is found, showing clear cascade saturation above threshold intensity of ~1024 W/cm2. QED cascade saturation leads to pair plasma cooling and longitudinal compression along the laser axis, resulting in the subsequent formation of relativistic dense e−e+ jets along transverse directions. Such laser-driven QED cascade saturation may open up the opportunity to study energetic astrophysical phenomena in laboratory.
Mast Cell Activation Protects Cornea by Promoting Neutrophil Infiltration via Stimulating ICAM-1 and Vascular Dilation in Fungal Keratitis
Authors: Xie Yanting , Zhang Hongmin , Liu Susu , Chen Guoming , He Siyu , Li Zhijie , Wang Liya
Published: May 2018

The role of mast cells (MCs) in fungal infection is largely unknown. This study was to explore a protective role and mechanism of MCs in fungal keratitis. Experimental fungal keratitis (FK) mouse model was developed. Mice untreated (UT) or receiving corneal wound without fungal infection (Mock) were used as controls. Large number of connective tissue MCs was found in normal mice. MC activation with degranulation was largely observed, and the percentage of degranulated/total cells was high in FK. Dilated limbal vasculature with increased permeability, as well as largely infiltrated neutrophils with stimulated ICAM-1 protein levels were observed in corneas of FK mice, when compared with Mock and UT mice. Interestingly, pretreatment with cromolyn sodium (Block) significantly blocked MC degranulation, dramatically suppressed vascular dilation and permeability, and markedly reduced neutrophil infiltration with lower ICAM-1 levels in FK mice at 6–24 hours. Furthermore, the Block mice manifested prolonged disease course, increased pathological damage, and vigorous fungus growth, with much higher corneal perforation rate than FK mice at 72 h. These findings reveal a novel phenomenon that MCs play a vital role in protecting cornea against fungal infection through degranulation that promotes neutrophil infiltration via stimulating ICAM-1 production and limbal vascular dilation and permeability.
Identification of Bernalite Transformation and Tridentate Arsenate Complex at Nano-goethite under Effects of Drying, pH and Surface Loading
Authors: Han Junho , Ro Hee-Myong
Published: May 2018

The structural configuration of arsenate on iron (hydr)oxide determines its leachability and bioavailability in the soil environment. It is important to understand how the stability of iron hydroxide and the structural configuration of arsenate complexes vary in response to changes in environmental conditions. Therefore, we investigated the effects of drying, pH and surface loadings on the stability of goethite and the structural configuration of arsenate through batch experiments and TEM and XAS measurements with DFT calculation. As a result, we observed no significant transformation of goethite under most conditions, but TEM confirmed the partial formation of bernalite in the presence of arsenate at a pH of 10, and the bernalite showed 2.18 times higher arsenate sorption than the goethite. The linear combination fitting of the EXAFS spectra with DFT calculations revealed that tridentate and bidentate complexes were dominant under low surface loading and pH conditions in the sedimented samples, while monodentate complexes were abundant under high surface loading and pH conditions. Based on our results, we conclude that the formation of arsenic-rich colloids could account for mobilization in the soil environment, and the density of available sorption sites combined with the concentration of solute could cause the change in structural configuration.
Robust numerical evaluation of circular dichroism from chiral medium/nanostructure coupled systems using the finite-element method
Authors: Lee Seojoo , Kang Ji-Hun , Yoo SeokJae , Park Q-Han
Published: May 2018

It has been demonstrated that circular dichroism (CD) signals from chiral molecules can be boosted by plasmonic nanostructures inducing strong local electromagnetic fields. To optimize nanostructures to improve CD enhancement, numerical simulations such as the finite element method (FEM) have been widely adopted. However, FEM calculations for CD have been frequently hampered by unwanted numerical artifacts due to improperly discretizing problem spaces. Here, we introduce a new meshing rule for FEM that provides CD simulations with superior numerical accuracy. We show that unwanted numerical artifacts can be suppressed by implementing the mirror-symmetric mesh configuration that generates identical numerical artifacts in the two-opposite circularly polarized waves, which cancel each other out in the final CD result. By applying our meshing scheme, we demonstrate a nanostructure/chiral molecule coupled system from which the CD signal is significantly enhanced. Since our meshing scheme addresses the previously unresolved issue of discriminating between very small CD signals and numerical errors, it can be directly applied to numerical simulations featuring natural chiral molecules which have intrinsically weak chiroptical responses.
Ionic liquid-based air-assisted liquid–liquid microextraction combined with dispersive micro-solid phase extraction for the preconcentration of copper in water samples
Authors: Du Weimin , Yao Li , Bian Jianfeng , Liu Yang , Wang Xie , Zhang Jianhua , Pang Liangyu
Published: May 2018

IL-AALLME combined with dispersive micro-solid phase extraction was applied for the preconcentration of Cu prior to analysis by GFAAS.
Mechanistic insights into the catalytic role of various acid sites on ZSM-5 zeolite in the carbonylation of methanol and dimethyl ether
Authors: Wang Sen , Li Shiying , Zhang Li , Qin Zhangfeng , Chen Yanyan , Dong Mei , Li Junfen , Fan Weibin , Wang Jianguo
Published: May 2018

The catalytic performance of ZSM-5 in carbonylation is strongly related to the location of acid sites in the zeolite framework.
Modifying the reactivity of a solid Lewis acid: niobium and antimony doped nanoscopic aluminum fluoride
Authors: Marshall C. P. , Braun T. , Kemnitz E.
Published: May 2018

A series of acid catalysts were prepared, using niobium and antimony as dopants in the fluorolytic sol–gel synthesis of high surface aluminium fluoride.
Material properties of ex vivo milk chocolate boluses examined in relation to texture perception
Authors: He Qi , Bramante Filippo , Davies Andrew , Elleman Carole , Fourtouni Kelly , Wolf Bettina
Published: May 2018

Two structural types of milk chocolate boluses identified with differences in texture perception and physico-chemical behaviours.
Green synthesis of catalytic gold/bismuth oxyiodide nanocomposites with oxygen vacancies for treatment of bacterial infections
Authors: Hsu Chia-Lun , Li Yu-Jia , Jian Hong-Jyuan , Harroun Scott G. , Wei Shih-Chun , Ravindranath Rini , Lai Jui-Yang , Huang Chih-Ching , Chang Huan-Tsung
Published: May 2018

Treatment using Au/BiOI nanocomposites for S. aureus-infected bacterial keratitis revealed that the nanocomposites are an effective agent for ocular infections.
A general strategy for the functionalization of two-dimensional metal chalcogenides
Authors: Shen Jianfeng , Wang He , Zhuang Peiyuan , Zeng Haotian , Ge Yuancai , Steven Craig , Dong Pei , Gao Shang-Peng , Ye Mingxin
Published: May 2018

A simple and universal functionalization route for two-dimensional metal chalcogenides is demonstrated.
Synthesis and biochemical evaluation of two novel N-hydroxyalkylated cyclosporin A analogs
Authors: Kahlert Viktoria , Prell Erik , Ohlenschläger Oliver , Melesina Jelena , Schumann Michael , Lücke Christian , Fischer Gunter , Malešević Miroslav
Published: May 2018

N-Hydroxyalkylation of cyclosporine A residues Val5 and d-Ala8 significantly influenced their conformation behavior and pharmacological properties.
High-throughput metabolomics used to identify potential therapeutic targets of Guizhi Fuling Wan against endometriosis of cold coagulation and blood stasis
Authors: Wu Xiu-hong , Zhao Chuang , Zhang Ai-hua , Zhang Jin-qi , Wang Xu , Sun Xiao-lan , Sun Ze , Wang Xi-jun
Published: May 2018

Metabolomics is an emerging and robust discipline and involves the comprehensive evaluation of small molecule endogenous metabolites and enables the exploration of the pathogenesis of diseases.
MiR-320d suppresses the progression of breast cancervialncRNA HNF1A-AS1 regulation and SOX4 inhibition
Authors: Shi Shuai , Hu Xiaoling , Xu Jianpo , Liu Hong , Zou Libo
Published: May 2018

MicroRNA-320d (miR-320d) is a novel cancer-related miRNA and functions as a tumor suppressor in human cancers.
Rheological phase reaction synthesis and electrochemical performance of rufigallol anode for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Han Xiaoyan , Lin Guanyu , Zhang Qing , Yang Yingkui
Published: May 2018

Rufigallol was synthesized by rheological phase method with high yield and investigated as anode for lithium ion batteries.
Enhancing the low temperature NH3-SCR activity of FeTiOx catalysts via Cu doping: a combination of experimental and theoretical study
Authors: Cheng Kai , Song Weiyu , Cheng Ying , Zheng Huiling , Wang Lu , Liu Jian , Zhao Zhen , Wei Yuechang
Published: May 2018

A series of FeαCu1−αTiOx catalysts with variable Cu doping amounts was directly synthesized by the sol–gel method and their catalytic performances were tested for the selective catalytic reduction of NO with ammonia.
Solar salt doped by MWCNTs as a promising high thermal conductivity material for CSP
Authors: Wu Yanze , Li Jinli , Wang Min , Wang Huaiyou , Zhong Yuan , Zhao Youjing , Wei Ming , Li Yan
Published: May 2018

The V3vibration peaks of nitrates in the samples were blue-shifted, except for the red-shift in sample 3#.
Double enhancement of hydrogen storage capacity of Pd nanoparticles by 20 at% replacement with Ir; systematic control of hydrogen storage in Pd–M nanoparticles (M = Ir, Pt, Au)
Authors: Kobayashi Hirokazu , Yamauchi Miho , Ikeda Ryuichi , Yamamoto Tomokazu , Matsumura Syo , Kitagawa Hiroshi
Published: May 2018

We report that only 20 at% replacement with Ir atoms doubled the hydrogen-storage capability compared to Pd NPs.
Different routes into the glass state for soft thermo-sensitive colloids
Authors: Rivas-Barbosa Rodrigo , Lázaro-Lázaro Edilio , Mendoza-Méndez Patricia , Still Tim , Piazza Valeria , Ramírez-González Pedro E. , Medina-Noyola Magdaleno , Laurati Marco
Published: May 2018

Different non-equilibrium routes lead to comparable dynamically arrested states of thermo-sensitive PNIPAM colloids.
When is a surface foam-phobic or foam-philic?
Authors: Teixeira Miguel A. C. , Arscott Steve , Cox Simon J. , Teixeira Paulo I. C.
Published: May 2018

In almost all practical settings, foams are in contact with solids. It is therefore important to investigate when a solid surface is capable of supporting a liquid foam. We answer this question both analytically and numerically, finding good agreement with experiment.
Viscoplastic fracture transition of a biopolymer gel
Authors: Frieberg Bradley R. , Garatsa Ray-Shimry , Jones Ronald L. , Bachert John O. , Crawshaw Benjamin , Liu X. Michael , Chan Edwin P.
Published: May 2018

We study the effects of gelatin chain composition on the fracture behavior of gelatin gels using cavitation rheology to show two fracture mechanisms exist for these materials that is determined by the whether the gel concentration is above or below the critical concentration for entanglements.
Transition metal anchored C2N monolayers as efficient bifunctional electrocatalysts for hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions
Authors: Zhang Xu , Chen An , Zhang Zihe , Jiao Menggai , Zhou Zhen
Published: May 2018

By means of first-principles computations, we screened a series of transition metal atom anchored C2N monolayers (TMx@C2N) as bifunctional electrocatalysts for both HER and OER.
Unique Co3O4/nitrogen-doped carbon nanospheres derived from metal–organic framework: insight into their superior lithium storage capabilities and electrochemical features in high-voltage batteries
Authors: Xue Hongjin , Na Zhaolin , Wu Yingqiang , Wang Xuxu , Li Qian , Liang Fei , Yin Dongming , Wang Limin , Ming Jun
Published: May 2018

The uniqueness of the Co3O4/N-doped carbon nanospheres derived from a metal–organic framework offers new functional materials for lithium (ion) battery applications.
The XXL Survey
Authors: Chiappetti L. , Fotopoulou S. , Lidman C. , Faccioli L. , Pacaud F. , Elyiv A. , Paltani S. , Pierre M. , Plionis M. , Adami C. , Alis S. , Altieri B. , Baldry I. , Bolzonella M. , Bongiorno A. , Brown M. , Driver S. , Elmer E. , Franzetti P. , Grootes M. , Guglielmo V. , Iovino A. , Koulouridis E. , Lefèvre J. P. , Liske J. , Maurogordato S. , Melnyk O. , Owers M. , Poggianti B. , Polletta M. , Pompei E. , Ponman T. , Robotham A. , Sadibekova T. , Tuffs R. , Valtchanov I. , Vignali C. , Wagner G.
Published: May 2018

We present the version of the point source catalogue of the XXL Survey that was used, in part, in the first series of XXL papers. In this paper we release, in our database in Milan and at CDS: (i) the X-ray source catalogue with 26 056 objects in two areas of 25 deg2 with a flux limit (at 3σ) of ~10−15 erg s−1 cm−2 in [0.5–2] keV, and ~ 3 × 10−15 erg s−1 cm−2 in [2–10] keV, yielding a 90% completeness limit of 5.8 × 10−15 and 3.8 × 10−14 respectively;(ii) the associated multiwavelength catalogues with candidate counterparts of the X-ray sources in the infrared, near-infrared, optical, and ultraviolet (plus spectroscopic redshift when available); and (iii) a catalogue of spectroscopic redshifts recently obtained in the southern XXL area. We also present the basic properties of the X-ray point sources and their counterparts. Other catalogues described in the second series of XXL papers will be released contextually, and will constitute the second XXLdata release.
Stellar masses and disk properties of Lupus young stellar objects traced by velocity-aligned stacked ALMA 13CO and C18O spectra
Authors: Yen Hsi-Wei , Koch Patrick M. , Manara Carlo F. , Miotello Anna , Testi Leonardo
Published: May 2018

Aims. Large samples of protoplanetary disks have been observed in recent ALMA surveys. The gas distributions and velocity structures of most of the disks can still not be imaged at high signal to noise ratios (S/Ns) because of the short integration time per source in these surveys. In this work, we apply the velocity-aligned stacking method to extract more information from molecular-line data of these ALMA surveys and to study the kinematics and disk properties traced by molecular lines.

Methods. We re-analyzed the ALMA 13CO (3–2) and C18O (3–2) data of 88 young stellar objects (YSOs) in Lupus with the velocity-aligned stacking method. This method aligns spectra at different positions in a disk based on the projected Keplerian velocities at their positions and then stacks them. This method enhances the S/Ns of molecular-line data and allows us to obtain better detections and to constrain dynamical stellar masses and disk orientations.

Results. We obtain 13CO detections in 41 disks and C18O detections in 18 disks with 11 new detections in 13CO and 9 new detections in C18O after applying the method. We estimate the disk orientations and the dynamical masses of the central YSOs from the 13CO data. Our estimated dynamical stellar masses correlate with the spectroscopic stellar masses, and in a subsample of 16 sources, where the inclination angles are better constrained, the two masses are in good agreement within the uncertainties and with a mean difference of 0.15 M⊙. With more detections of fainter disks, our results show that high gas masses derived from the 13CO and C18O lines tend to be associated with high dust masses estimated from the continuum emission. Nevertheless, the scatter is large and is estimated to be 0.9 dex, implying large uncertainties in deriving the disk gas mass from the line fluxes. We find that with such large uncertainties it is expected that there is no correlation between the disk gas mass and the mass accretion rate with the current data. Deeper observations to detect disks with gas masses <10−5 M⊙ in molecular lines are needed to investigate the correlation between the disk gas mass and the mass accretion rate.
Status of the Mu2e experiment
Authors: Giovannella S.
Published: May 2018

The Mu2e experiment at Fermilab searches for the charged-lepton flavor violating neutrino-less conversion of a negative muon into an electron in the field of an aluminum nucleus. The dynamics of such a process is well modelled by a two-body decay, resulting in a mono-energetic electron with an energy slightly below the muon rest mass. If no events are observed, in three years of running Mu2e will improve the current limit by four orders of magnitude. Such a charged lepton flavor-violating reaction probes new physics at a scale inaccessible with direct searches at either present or planned high energy colliders. The experiment both complements and extends the current search for muon decay to electron-photon at MEG and searches for new physics at the LHC. This paper focuses on the physics motivation, the design and the status of the experiment.
Status of R(s) measurements by energy scan method
Authors: Ignatov Fedor
Published: May 2018

The precise low-energy e+e- → hadrons cross section are used in SM prediction of various fundamental quantities, like the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon. Direct energy scan experiments were always one of the main tool to provide this information. Status of R(s) measurements using this method is presented, some of the most recent results are discussed in details.
QED contributions to electrong-2
Authors: Laporta Stefano
Published: May 2018

In this paper I briefly describe the results of the numerical evaluation of the mass-independent 4-loop contribution to the electrong-2 in QED with 1100 digits of precision. In particular I also show the semi-analytical fit to the numerical value, which contains harmonic polylogarithms of eiπ/3, e2iπ/3and eiπ/2one-dimensional integrals of products of complete elliptic integrals and six finite parts of master integrals, evaluated up to 4800 digits. I give also some information about the methods and the program used.
Status of the COMET experiment
Authors: Litchfield R. P. ,   COMET collaboration
Published: May 2018

The COMET experiment, currently under construction at J-PARC, is designed to search for the the neutrinoless flavour-changing charged-lepton process μ- + A → e- + A, which is a promising channel to look for new physics. The experiment will make use of the high-power proton beam available at the J-PARC Main Ring to achieve a sensitivity orders of magnitude better than the current limits. The experiment will be staged, with ‘Phase-I’ scheduled to begin commissioning soon while the ‘Phase-II’ design is refined in parallel. A description the design of both Phases is presented, along with the latest developments.
Effective-field theories for charged lepton flavour violation
Authors: Marco Pruna Giovanni
Published: May 2018

These proceedings review the status of present and future bounds on muonic lepton flavour violating transitions in the context of an effective-field theory defined below the electroweak scale. A specific focus is set on the phenomenology of μ → eγ, μ → 3e transitions and coherent μ → e nuclear conversion in the light of current and future experiments. Once the experimental limits are recast into bounds at higher scales, it is shown that the interplay between the various experiments is crucial to cover all corners of the parameter space.
On the influence of the americium isotopic vector on the cooling time of minor actinides bearing blankets in fast reactors
Authors: Kooyman Timothée , Buiron Laurent , Rimpault Gerald
Published: May 2018

In the heterogeneous minor actinides transmutation approach, the nuclei to be transmuted are loaded in dedicated targets often located at the core periphery, so that long-lived heavy nuclides are turned into shorter-lived fission products by fission. To compensate for low flux level at the core periphery, the minor actinides content in the targets is set relatively high (around 20 at.%), which has a negative impact on the reprocessing of the targets due to their important decay heat level. After a complete analysis of the main contributors to the heat load of the irradiated targets, it is shown here that the choice of the reprocessing order of the various feeds of americium from the fuel cycle depends on the actual limit for fuel reprocessing. If reprocessing of hot targets is possible, it is more interesting to reprocess first the americium feed with a high243Am content in order to limit the total cooling time of the targets, while if reprocessing of targets is limited by their decay heat, it is more interesting to wait for an increase in the241Am content before loading the americium in the core. An optimization of the reprocessing order appears to lead to a decrease of the total cooling time by 15 years compared to a situation where all the americium feeds are mixed together when two feeds from SFR are considered with a high reprocessing limit.
Enquête internationale sur l’état de l’art et l’état de la pratique en géotechnique
Authors: Acosta-Martinez Hugo , Delage Pierre , Nicks Jennifer , Day Peter
Published: May 2018

Cet article présente une synthèse des résultats de l’enquête internationale sur l’état de l’art et l’état de la pratique en ingénierie géotechnique lancée par le Groupe présidentiel des entreprises associées et le Comité de supervision technique de la Société internationale de mécanique des sols et de géotechnique en mars 2017. Il résume également les discussions qui ont eu lieu sur le sujet durant le 19e CIMSG à Séoul, le 20 septembre 2017.
Temperature measurement in the flowing medium
Authors: Sedlák Kamil , Fialová Lenka
Published: May 2018

The article deals with a brief description of methods of temperature measurements in a flowing water steam. Attention is paid to the measurement of pseudo static temperature by a single sealed thermocouple entering the flowing liquid through the flown-by wall. Then three types of probes for stagnation temperature measurement are shown, whose properties were tested using CFD calculations. The aim was to design a probe of stagnation parameters of described properties which can be used for measuring flow parameters in a real steam turbine. An important factor influencing the construction is not only the safe manipulation of the probe when inserting and removing it from the machine in operation, but also the possibility to traverse the probe along the blade length.
Theory of Transport of Conteiners in Pipelines
Authors: Klimenda František , Soukup Josef , Rychlíková Lenka
Published: May 2018

For transporting materials pneumatic transport in containers is also used. Calculation of this type of transport is quite complicated, especially because of non-stationary and non-isothermal conditions in the pipes. Because of low speeds of the train motion in the pipes, it is possible to consider the phenomenon in the pipes isothermal. The simplified calculation of this type of transport for one-dimensional flow in the pipes is indicated in the article.
Controlled outflow of storm water without flooding
Authors: Adámek Karel , Kolář Jan , Peukert Pavel
Published: May 2018

There are many types of devices used for various purposes, called as vortex valves. The aim of this paper is the design of vortex valves, determined for controlled higher outflows from retention tanks. The paper follows the previous study of smaller sizes of vortex valves. The method of flow numerical simulation allows us to identify the reason of the two-branch operational (resistance) characteristic of the solved valves and the suitable sizes of the main valve dimensions for the given flow rate and water level.
Natural Convection Heat Transfer Around a Horizontal Circular Cylinder for the Case of Constant Surface Temperature of the Cylinder Near a Vertical Wall
Authors: Novomestsky Marcel , Banovčan Roman , Kapjor Andrej , Smatanová Helena
Published: May 2018

Natural convection heat transfer from a single horizontal cylinder near an isothermal wall is experimentally investigated in the environmental chamber. The cylinder is heated with constant temperature, the rising plum from the heated cylinder interacts with the side wall and significantly affects the surface heat transfer distribution. Thus, the distance between horizontal cylinder and side wall can influence the heat transfer. The heat transfer from heated cylinder with different distances were compared. Results are obtained for Ra = 104. It was found that natural convection heat transfer from horizontal cylinder depends on the distance between wall. Also, a heat transfer correlation has been proposed for a single horizontal cylinder near a wall and is compared with earlier work. The results indicate that the vertical wall affect the average Nusselt number at the cylinder. Therefore, the vertical wall has a positive effect on the Nusselt number at the cylinder.
Vortex Tube: A Comparison of Experimental and CFD Analysis Featuring Different RANS Models
Authors: Chýlek Radomír , Šnajdárek Ladislav , Pospíšil Jiří
Published: May 2018

The Ranque–Hilsch vortex tube represents a device for both cooling and heating applications. It uses compressed gas as drive medium. The temperature separation is affected by fluid flow behaviour inside the tube. It has not been sufficiently examined in detail yet and has the potential for further investigation. The aim of this paper is to compare results of numerical simulations of the vortex tube with obtained experimental data. The numerical study was using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), namely computational code STAR-CCM+. For the numerical study, a three-dimensional geometry model, and various turbulence physics models were used. For the validation of carried out calculations, an experimental device of the vortex tube of identical geometrical and operating conditions was created and tested. The numerical simulation results have been obtained for five different turbulence models, namely Standard k-ε, Realizable k-ε, Standard k-ω, SST k-ω and Reynolds stress model (RSM), were compared with experimental results. The most important evaluation factor was the temperature field in the vortex tube. All named models of turbulence were able to predict the general flow behaviour in the vortex tube with satisfactory precision. Standard k-ε turbulence model predicted temperature distribution in the best accordance with the obtained experimental data.
Basic CFD model of heat pipe
Authors: Hrabovský Peter , Kolková Zuzana , Mokrý Marián , Nemec Patrik
Published: May 2018

The article deals with the creation of the basis of the CFD model of the heat pipe, which is designed to simulate and show the predicted course of the work-fluid-activity within the heat pipe. This simulation is part of the study of the heat pipe device. This device, based on CFD simulation, can be constructed to describe the phenomena running inside the heat pipe based on real-world experimental measurements. A comparison of the CFD and the experimental model can explain the problems of areas and phenomena in the heat pipe. Based on this comparison, it is possible to optimize single device errors. The optimization transferred to the CFD model will show us how to solve problems and how to improve the experimental models of heat pipes.
Measurement of operating parameters of a hydrogen compressor using metal hydride materials
Authors: Brestovič Tomáš , Jasminská Natália , Lázár Marián , Dobáková Romana
Published: May 2018

The present article deals with the possibilities of using metal hydride materials in the construction of hydrogen compressors. For the purpose of continuous operation, a tandem tank connection is used. By increasing the tank temperature, hydrogen pressure increases as well, whereas the heat is transported between the tanks by means of a heat pump. Operating parameters are measured for the purpose analysing prevention of the device failures that occur when the maximum pressure behind the heat pump compressor is exceeded.
Boiling heat transfer augmentation on surfaces covered with phosphor bronze meshes
Authors: Dąbek Lidia , Kapjor Andrej , Orman Łukasz J.
Published: May 2018

The paper discusses the issue of boiling heat transfer augmentation on phosphor bronze wire mesh coatings during nucleate boiling heat transfer for distilled water and ethyl alcohol under ambient pressure. A significant enhancement of heat flux has been recorded for such treated surfaces in comparison to the smooth reference surface. The obtained results have been discussed and compared with models and correlations available in literature.
Application of mathematical modelling when determining the parameters effect of biomass densification process on solid biofuels quality
Authors: Križan Peter , Svátek Michal , Matúš Miloš , Beniak Juraj
Published: May 2018

The main aim of this paper is to present the design of experiment (DOE) and evaluation methodology for this experimental plan in order to determine the parameters effect of biomass densification process on final solid biofuels quality. One of the recovery possibilities for waste biomass raw materials is production of solid biofuels. Using a variety combination of influencing variables can be improve the final quality of solid biofuels. Raw biomass material variables influence, especially (type of raw material, particle size, moisture content, compression pressure and compression temperature) can be recognized during the production of solid biofuels. Their effect can be seen through the quality indicators; especially mentioned variables significantly influence the mechanical quality indicators of solid biofuels. In this experimental research authors would like to investigate properties and behaviour of wood raw waste biomass during densification. This contribution discusses the analysis and design of experimental process, its individual steps and their subsequent DOE leading to the development of a mathematical model that will describe this process. This paper also presents the research findings regarding the effect of influencing variables on final density of solid biofuels during densification. Aim of the experimental process is to determine the mutual interaction between solid biofuels density and influencing variables during densification. Effect of compression pressure, compression temperature, moisture content and particle size on solid biofuels density from wood sawdust was determined.
Volume ratio of two immiscible phases measured by electrical impedance tomography
Authors: Malík Michal , Primas Jiří , Kotek Michal , Kopecký Václav , Kysela Bohuš , Šulc Radek
Published: May 2018

The mixing of two immiscible phases is a process commonly seen in many branches of industry. Whether it be desirable (e.g. mixing of ingredients in chemical or food industry) or undesirable (e.g. sediments or contaminants in water purification) process, it has to be taken into consideration and a detailed description would be beneficial to any end product. This paper deals with a method for observing the volume ratio of two immiscible phases from the state of total separation, during the mixing process until the state of a homogenous mixture using industrial Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) system ITS p2+. The paper also shows a great agreement between the data obtained through measurement using this method and data derived from a theoretical formula. Also using EIT the authors were able to provide additional information describing the mixing process in real time.
Designing the solar collector position with the Arduino electronic platform
Authors: Vician Peter , Ďurčanský Peter , Jandačka Jozef
Published: May 2018

The article deals with the utilizing of solar energy by the means of concentric trough collector based on own design. It focuses on achieving optimal position of the trough with respect to incident radiation during its operation. Due to the collector virtual sun tracking system, which was proved to be ineffective and could not achieve the desired results, the optimum position had to be maintained by manual control of rotation. The measurement of the angle of rotation of the concentric trough is realized using the ARDUINO electronic platform, for which the program was created in the software ARDUINO (IDE) 1.8.4.
Green infrastructure and low energy architecture for eco-tourism in Asinara island
Authors: Trombadore Antonella , Rolovic Dusan , Congiatu Pier Paolo
Published: May 2018

The paper will present the sustainable and low energy architecture approach that has been developed for a small island in Sardinia, Italy. The island has hosted several prison complexes in the past two centuries, now converted into a National Park, since its creation as a national park its architectural and urban patrimony have been completely abandoned. Its few built-up areas and/or urban developments do have an enormous potential, but past administrations failed in the attempt to offer a commercially attractive model. The project focuses mainly on the development of a Strategic Plan for the regeneration of the island: the main goal is to create completely new activities and functions which are both compatible with its touristic potential and especially with the natural fragility of the ecosystem. These functions have been planned in order to give life and continuous activity to the island, but with extreme care towards its cohesion with the environment and the biodiversity. Results consist in various minor agricultural activities that have been reinstated based on the past activities, and different touristic functions focused on a specific and Eco-responsible market niche. These activities are supported by a complex network of structures and services dedicated to maintaining the balance of the ecosystem intact, while this increases the quality of its offer, thus allowing the creation of a model of sustainable management of natural resources and commercial exploitation without risk for the environment.
Two cases of combined patellar tendon avulsion from the tibia and patella
Authors: Bradko Viachaslau , Stoll William T. , Haruno Lee S. , Rosenfeld Scott B. , McKay Scott D.
Published: May 2018

Avulsion fractures of the inferior pole of the patella and proximal tibial apophysis are independently rare injuries. They occur in children due to the relative weakness of the apophyseal cartilage compared to the ligaments and tendons. The combination of these two fractures, is exceedingly rare, with only a few previously described cases in the literature. Due to the infrequent presentation of this injury, careful examination and consideration of advanced imaging is important for diagnosis and preoperative planning. Here we present two cases of combined sleeve fractures of the inferior pole of the patella and tibial apophysis, with discussion of the pathophysiology, classification, identification and management of the injury.
La boue comme champ expressif : une esthésiologie du corps et la motricité en danse
Authors: Da Nóbrega Petrucia , Torres Laís Saraiva
Published: May 2018

Il s’agit de présenter le corps esthésiologique à partir des récits en première personne des participants à la manifestation traditionnelle « Os Cão », pendant le Carnaval de la plage de Redinha, à Natal, au Brésil, en 2017. D’autre part, il s’agit d’évoquer le spectacle « Cão sem plumas » (Le Chien sans plumes), de Débora Colcker pour créer des liens entre l’esthésiologie et l’expérience esthétique de la boue comme un champ expressif pour l’écologisation du corps vers la création de nouveaux sens pour la motricité, notamment dans le domaine de la danse. Une telle proposition nous aide à comprendre la quête de la danse vers une nouvelle fabrication poétique du réel en interaction avec la nature, au mouvement et à la notion du spectacle lui-même au-delà du divertissement ou du simple « loisir » mais comme pourvoyeur de sens existentiel, esthétique et culturel.
Anthropometric characteristics and physiological responses of high level swimmers and performance in 100 m freestyle swimming
Authors: Rozi G. , Thanopoulos V. , Geladas N. , Soultanaki E. , Dopsaj M.
Published: May 2018

The effect of the anthropometric characteristics on performances has been the subject of many studies (Reilly, T., Bangsbo, J., & Franks, A. (2000). Anthropometric and physiological predispositions for elite soccer. Journal of Sports Science, 18(9), 669–683) but performance also depends on different physiological parameters. The aim of the present study is to define the anthropometric and physiological variables that best predict performance time of 100 m freestyle swimming. Twenty-five competitive male swimmers (age: 15 ± 1.2 years) participated in the research. Multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that arm span is the best predictor of 100 m freestyle swimming performance (r = 0.835). Arm span explains 68.5% of the variance of dependent variable (Adj R2: 0.685). In the final model, the variables that best describe 100 m freestyle swimming are the number of strokes of 100 m freestyle swimming, triceps skinfold, pelvis and shoulders width (Adj R2: 0.882). These findings confirm the importance of the anthropometric variables for swimming performance and could help coaches in the selection of high-level athletes.
Estimating kangaroo age from lens weight
Authors: Augusteyn Robert C.
Published: May 2018

In a recent publication, Mayberry et al. (2017) presented a method for estimating western grey kangaroo age from the weights of dried eye lenses. The drying conditions are inadequate and may lead to erroneous age estimates. It is suggested that well documented methods in general use be used for future studies.
Effect of elevated CO2 on Vigna radiata and two weed species: yield, physiology and crop–weed interaction
Authors: Awasthi Jay Prakash , Paraste Kamlesh Singh , Rathore Meenal , Varun Mayank , Jaggi Disha , Kumar Bhumesh
Published: May 2018

A field experiment was conducted in a free-air CO2 enrichment (FACE) facility to investigate the effect of elevated atmospheric CO2 on growth and physiology of green gram (Vigna radiata (L.) R.Wilczek) and associated weed species (Euphorbia geniculata Ortega and Commelina diffusa Burm.f.). Physiological and reproductive behaviour and interaction of the crop and two weed species under elevated CO2 was also studied. Plants were grown under ambient (390 ± 5 ppmv) and elevated (550 ± 50 ppmv) CO2. The results showed that growth, photosynthesis and carbonic anhydrase activity increased in all the test species. Stomatal conductance and transpiration decreased in V. radiata (5.1% and 30.5%, respectively) and C. diffusa (19% and 13.7%) but increased in E. geniculata (6.5% and 27.6%), suggesting a unique adaptive potential of E. geniculata at elevated CO2. Higher accumulation of reactive oxygen species (hydrogen peroxide and superoxide) was noticed at elevated CO2 in V. radiata than in E. geniculata and C. diffusa. Potential of E. geniculata to maintain redox homeostasis in its original state may provide an advantage over two other species in adaptation to climate change. Isoenzyme patterns of superoxide dismutase and stronger activity of antioxidant enzymes suggest species-specific differential regulation and induction of new isoforms under elevated CO2. Enrichment of atmospheric CO2 at a competitive density of weeds lowered the yield (12.12%) and quality of green gram seed, with diminished protein content (16.14% at ambient CO2 to 15.42% at elevated CO2) and enhanced carbohydrate content (3.11%). From the study, it may be concluded that a rise in atmospheric CO2 concentration affects plant performance in a species-specific manner. Among the three species, E. geniculata emerged as most responsive to elevated CO2, showing higher transpiration and stomatal conductance and a stronger antioxidant defence system in a higher CO2 atmosphere. At elevated CO2, weed–crop interaction altered in favour of weeds leading to considerable yield loss of green gram seed.
The Oxford Dictionary of American Art and Artists
Authors: Morgan Ann Lee
Published: May 2018

‘Provides a wealth of information in succinct entries’ American Reference Books Annual

More than 1,600 entries

An indispensable biographical and critical guide to American art from colonial times to contemporary postmodernism, this dictionary offers readers a wealth of factual detail on and analysis of America’s leading artists, along with analysis of their work. The new edition includes more than 4,000 links to online resources, providing quick access to images of almost all of the works discussed. There are new entries on topics such as fiber art, light and space, Native American art, and shaped canvas, as well as new or expanded entries on artists such as Ellen Day Hale, John Hesselius, and Shirin Neshat. Providing a wealth of authoritative information and well-informed analysis and criticism, this is the ideal reference for students of American art and an invaluable resource for art lovers everywhere.
From 55,000 to 7 billion
Authors: Harper Sarah
Published: May 2018

‘From 55,000 to 7 billion’ describes how global population has evolved over time and space, experiencing a small increase for thousands of years, until around 200 years ago when global population grew dramatically. 1.2 million years ago there were around 55,000 humans, then by the end of the last ice age 20,000 years ago there were around 1 million Homo sapiens. The next 15,000 years saw a dramatic evolution in human economy and society and by 5000 bc the world population reached around 5 million. It took a further 7,000 years for population to reach one billion by ad 1800. Population now stands at some 7 billion and is projected to reach around 10 billion during this century.
Population policies and future challenges
Authors: Harper Sarah
Published: May 2018

Population policies aim to modify the growth rate, composition, or distribution of a population. In practice, they can be explicit or implicit. The two main areas in which governments attempt to control or influence through population polices are fertility and migration. ‘Population policies and future challenges’ also considers some key population challenges of the 21st century. Will fertility rates fall to replacement in sub-Saharan Africa? What is the relationship between environment, population, and consumption in different parts of the world? How will we feed and provide water for the projected 9 or 10 billion of us by 2050? What will be the impact of the ageing of the world’s population and of technological change?
Terrorism: A Very Short Introduction
Authors: Townshend Charles
Published: May 2018

Terrorism: A Very Short Introduction examines the historical, ideological, and local roots of terrorist violence and explores terrorism in relation to revolutionary power, nationalism, and religious extremism. Is one person’s terrorist another’s freedom fighter? Is terrorism crime or war? What can we do to stop it? For many, the terrorist attacks of September 2001 changed the face of the world, pushing terrorism to the top of many political agendas. This VSI considers recent changes in terrorism, such as the emergence of ISIS and upsurge in individual suicide action, looking at the impact and consequences of several recent terrorist attacks, and outlining the complex issues related to antiterrorist and counterterrorist measures.
Religious terror
Authors: Townshend Charles
Published: May 2018

In the early 21st century, the world faced a revival of religious fundamentalism. The liberal assumption that the rise of modern society and the demise of religion came hand in hand was thrown into doubt. In the 1980s, terrorism was restricted to a few radical revolutionaries and familiar nationalists. The next decade saw a shift. It was Islam in particular that captured the attention of the West. ‘Religious terror’ considers the relationship between religion and violence, messianism, suicide and self-sacrifice, and fundamentalism, including the rise of the Islamic State movement. Are the motives for such terrorist acts purely religious or are they political as well?
4. A Constabulary Navy
Authors: Symonds Craig L.
Published: May 2018

After 1820, the day-to-day duties of the United States Navy involved dealing with smugglers, pirates, and the illegal slave trade and so deploying the large ships of the line was deemed unnecessary. Also, the successful completion of treaties with both England and Spain demilitarized the Great Lakes and stabilized the country’s southern border, easing concerns about a future foreign war. ‘A constabulary navy: pirates, slavers, and manifest destiny (1820–1850)’ describes the peacetime navy activities carried out by small squadrons of sloops and schooners acting as a constabulary force on distant stations abroad, mainly in the Mediterranean, but also in the West Indies, off Africa, in the Pacific, off Brazil, and in the East.
6. The Doldrums and The New Navy (1865–1900)
Authors: Symonds Craig L.
Published: May 2018

‘The doldrums and the new navy (1865–1900)’ describes the period after the end of the Civil War: an era of swift retrenchment with little forward progress. When the Civil War ended, the U.S. Navy boasted 671 warships, yet within a decade, all but a few dozen had been sold off, scrapped, or placed in ordinary—mothballed for a future crisis. The concept of a peacetime standing navy was finally embraced with Congressional approval for new battleships in 1890. The war with Spain in 1898 also resulted in the United States assuming significant authority on Cuba and gaining control of the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Guam, and Wake Island.