bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling and Performance Evaluation of a Context Information-Based Optimized Handover Scheme in 5G Networks
Authors: Seo Dong , Chung Yun
Published: July 2017

Recently, green networks are considered as one of the hottest topics in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), especially in mobile communication networks. In a green network, energy saving of network nodes such as base stations (BSs), switches, and servers should be achieved efficiently. In this paper, we consider a heterogeneous network architecture in 5G networks with separated data and control planes, where basically a macro cell manages control signals and a small cell manages data traffic. Then, we propose an optimized handover scheme based on context information such as reference signal received power, speed of user equipment (UE), traffic load, call admission control level, and data type. In this paper, the main objective of the proposed optimal handover is either to reduce the number of handovers or the total energy consumption of BSs. To this end, we develop optimization problems with either the minimization of the number of total handovers or the minimization of energy consumption of BSs as the objective function of the optimization problem. The solution of the optimization problem is obtained by particle swarm optimization, since the developed optimization problem is an NP hard problem. Performance analysis results via simulation based on various probability distributions of the characteristics of UE and BS show that the proposed optimized handover based on context information performs better than the previous call admission control based handover scheme, from the perspective of the number of handovers and total energy consumption. We also show that the proposed handover scheme can efficiently reduce either the number of handovers or the total energy consumption by applying either handover minimization or energy minimization depending on the objective of the application.
Study on the Gas-Insulated Line Equivalent Model and Simplified Model
Authors: Li Botong , Gu Tianfeng , Li Bin , Zhang Yunke
Published: July 2017

The gas-insulated line (GIL) is one technical solution to allow the transmission of electricity underground at a high voltage level, yet its equivalent model is quite complicated. Based on an examination of the geometrical structure of the GIL and the way the metallic enclosure is grounded, this paper analyzed the electromagnetic and electrostatic coupling among the inner conductors and the metallic enclosures of the three phases. Then, the paper proposes a modeling method for the widely-used short-distance GIL based on the PI-model (the model consisting of two lumped admittance at each terminal and a lumped impedance in between). The GIL parameters were later simplified with the coupling effect of the metallic enclosure considered, and a simplified PI-model was produced. Finally, the proposed PI-model and its simplified version were built on the Power Systems Computer Aided Design (PSCAD) platform, and their effectiveness verified by simulation results.
Optimization of Guide Vane Closing Schemes of Pumped Storage Hydro Unit Using an Enhanced Multi-Objective Gravitational Search Algorithm
Authors: Zhou Jianzhong , Xu Yanhe , Zheng Yang , Zhang Yuncheng
Published: July 2017

The optimization of guide vane closing schemes (OGVCS) of pumped storage hydro units (PSHUs) is a cooperative control and optimal operation research field in renewable energy power generation technology. This paper presents an OGVCS model of PSHUs considering the rise rate of the unit rotational speed, the specific node pressure of each hydraulic unit, as well as various complicated hydraulic and mechanical constraints. The OGVCS model is formulated as a multi-objective optimization problem to optimize conflicting objectives, i.e., unit rotational speed and water hammer pressure criteria. In order to realize an efficient solution of the OGVCS model, an enhanced multi-objective bacterial-foraging chemotaxis gravitational search algorithm (EMOBCGSA) is proposed to solve this problem, which adopts population reconstruction, adaptive selection chemotaxis operator of local searching strategy and elite archive set to efficiently solve the multi-objective problem. In particular a novel constraints-handling strategy with elimination and local search based on violation ranking is used to balance the various hydraulic and mechanical constraints. Finally, simulation cases of complex extreme operating conditions (i.e., load rejection and pump outage) of a ‘single tube-double units’ type PSHU system are conducted to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed EMOBCGSA in solving OGVCS problems. The simulation results indicate that the proposed EMOBCGSA can provide a lower rise rate of the unit rotational speed and smaller water hammer pressure than other methods established recently while considering various complex constraints in OGVCS problems.
Economic Power Schedule and Transactive Energy through an Intelligent Centralized Energy Management System for a DC Residential Distribution System
Authors: Yue Jingpeng , Hu Zhijian , Li Chendan , Vasquez Juan C. , Guerrero Josep M.
Published: July 2017

Direct current (DC) residential distribution systems (RDS) consisting of DC living homes will be a significant integral part of future green transmission. Meanwhile, the increasing number of distributed resources and intelligent devices will change the power flow between the main grid and the demand side. The utilization of distributed generation (DG) requires an economic operation, stability, and an environmentally friendly approach in the whole DC system. This paper not only presents an optimization schedule and transactive energy (TE) approach through a centralized energy management system (CEMS), but also a control approach to implement and ensure DG output voltages to various DC buses in a DC RDS. Based on data collection, prediction and a certain objectives, the expert system in a CEMS can work out the optimization schedule, after this, the voltage droop control for steady voltage is aligned with the command of the unit power schedule. In this work, a DC RDS is used as a case study to demonstrate the process, the RDS is associated with unit economic models, and a cost minimization objective is proposed that is to be achieved based on the real-time electrical price. The results show that the proposed framework and methods will help the targeted DC residential system to reduce the total cost and reach stability and efficiency.
Coordinated Operation and Control of Combined Electricity and Natural Gas Systems with Thermal Storage
Authors: Liu Yu , Gao Shan , Zhao Xin , Zhang Chao , Zhang Ningyu
Published: July 2017

As one of the most effective approaches in dealing with the energy crisis, combined electricity and natural gas systems have become more and more popular worldwide. To take full advantages of such hybrid energy networks, a proper operation and control method is required. In this paper, a novel approach coordinating combined heating and power generation is proposed. First, state excursion rate, a criterion describing the deviation of system operation, is defined for system state evaluation. Then, thermal energy storage is allocated to provide more and better operation modes for combined generation. By investigating the state excursion rate of hybrid energy systems, the optimal operation mode is chosen through an analytical strategy. Case studies on hybrid energy networks show that all state variables, including voltages in electric systems and pressures in gas networks, are adjusted to follow proper operation constraints by the implementations of the proposed strategy. In addition to providing sufficient auxiliary services for hybrid systems, it is also possible to maintain the economic and energy-efficient benefits of energy supply. This study provides an effective method to utilize the regulation capability of combined heating and power generations, which is a technical basis of energy internet.
Energy-Based Design of Powertrain for a Re-Engineered Post-Transmission Hybrid Electric Vehicle
Authors: Tribioli Laura
Published: July 2017

This paper presents a systematic approach for the design of post-transmission hybrid electric vehicle powertrains, as an instrument aiding the designer in making the right decision. In particular, a post-transmission series/parallel hybrid electric powertrain is considered, and all of the possible energy paths are taken into account, in order to automatically select the configuration that gives the lowest fuel consumption, thus better fitting to the considered mission. The optimization problem is solved with the Dijkstra algorithm, which is more computationally efficient than other optimization algorithms in the case of massive design spaces. In this way, it is possible to design a vehicle in terms of architecture and component sizes, without making any a priori choices, which are usually based on common sense, likely compromising the overall system efficiency. In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the methodology, different driving cycles have been simulated, and some results are presented. The methodology is particularly applied to re-engineered vehicles, aimed at maximizing the benefits of the vehicle hybridization process. Results show how the introduction, in the optimization algorithm, of the engine load factor and sharing factor, for the engine torque split between the generator and the wheels, is crucial. For example, a 10% reduction of the original engine size, suggested by a low load factor, is able to allow for a 24% reduction in the fuel consumption. On the other hand, the sharing factor is of particular importance in suggesting if the vehicle architecture should be series, parallel or rather combined.
Inborn Errors of Metabolism and Epilepsy: Current Understanding, Diagnosis, and Treatment Approaches
Authors: Sharma Suvasini , Prasad Asuri
Published: July 2017

Inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) are a rare cause of epilepsy, but seizures and epilepsy are frequently encountered in patients with IEM. Since these disorders are related to inherited enzyme deficiencies with resulting effects on metabolic/biochemical pathways, the term “metabolic epilepsy” can be used to include these conditions. These epilepsies can present across the life span, and share features of refractoriness to anti-epileptic drugs, and are often associated with co-morbid developmental delay/regression, intellectual, and behavioral impairments. Some of these disorders are amenable to specific treatment interventions; hence timely and appropriate diagnosis is critical to improve outcomes. In this review, we discuss those disorders in which epilepsy is a dominant feature and present an approach to the clinical recognition, diagnosis, and management of these disorders, with a greater focus on primarily treatable conditions. Finally, we propose a tiered approach that will permit a clinician to systematically investigate, identify, and treat these rare disorders.
Effects of an Inhibitor of Monocyte Recruitment on Recovery from Traumatic Brain Injury in Mice Treated with Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor
Authors: Song Shijie , Kong Xiaoyuan , Acosta Sandra , Sava Vasyl , Borlongan Cesar , Sanchez-Ramos Juan
Published: July 2017

Administration of the hematopoietic growth factor granulocyte-colony stimulating Factor (G-CSF) has been reported to enhance recovery from controlled cortical impact (CCI) in rodent models. G-CSF exerts actions in both the periphery (stimulation of hematopoiesis) and in the brain, where it serves as a neurotrophic factor, promoting neuronal survival and stimulating neural stem/progenitor cell proliferation in the hippocampus. In order to distinguish the direct CNS actions of G-CSF from its peripheral actions, experiments were designed to block the recruitment of peripheral monocytes to the site of the lesion produced by CCI. The selective C-C motif receptor 2 (CCR2) antagonist (RS504303) was co-administered with G-CSF for three days after CCI in a chimeric mouse previously transplanted with GFP-expressing (GFP+) blood stem-progenitor cells. Results: The drug significantly impaired infiltration of GFP+ bone marrow-derived cells to the frontal cortex and striatum without impeding recovery performance and hippocampal neurogenesis in the behavioral test, the Radial Arm Water Maze (RAWM). Administration of the CCR2 antagonist alone, without G-CSF, was effective in promoting recovery in RAWM. These results support the hypothesis that the direct action of G-CSF on neural cells, independent of its hematopoietic effects, is primarily responsible for enhanced recovery from CCI. In addition, this study confirms the importance of CCR2 and its ligand, monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), in mediating the inflammatory response following CCI.
Diabetes and Wound Angiogenesis
Authors: Okonkwo Uzoagu , DiPietro Luisa
Published: July 2017

Diabetes Mellitus Type II (DM2) is a growing international health concern with no end in sight. Complications of DM2 involve a myriad of comorbidities including the serious complications of poor wound healing, chronic ulceration, and resultant limb amputation. In skin wound healing, which has definite, orderly phases, diabetes leads to improper function at all stages. While the etiology of chronic, non-healing diabetic wounds is multi-faceted, the progression to a non-healing phenotype is closely linked to poor vascular networks. This review focuses on diabetic wound healing, paying special attention to the aberrations that have been described in the proliferative, remodeling, and maturation phases of wound angiogenesis. Additionally, this review considers therapeutics that may offer promise to better wound healing outcomes.
A Steel Ball Surface Quality Inspection Method Based on a Circumferential Eddy Current Array Sensor
Authors: Zhang Huayu , Xie Fengqin , Cao Maoyong , Zhong Mingming
Published: July 2017

To efficiently inspect surface defects on steel ball bearings, a new method based on a circumferential eddy current array (CECA) sensor was proposed here. The best probe configuration, in terms of the coil quality factor (Q-factor), magnetic field intensity, and induced eddy current density on the surface of a sample steel ball, was determined using 3-, 4-, 5-, and 6-coil probes, for analysis and comparison. The optimal lift-off from the measured steel ball, the number of probe coils, and the frequency of excitation current suitable for steel ball inspection were obtained. Using the resulting CECA sensor to inspect 46,126 steel balls showed a miss rate of ~0.02%. The sensor was inspected for surface defects as small as 0.05 mm in width and 0.1 mm in depth.
Fuzzy-Logic Based Distributed Energy-Efficient Clustering Algorithm for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Ying , Wang Jun , Han Dezhi , Wu Huafeng , Zhou Rundong
Published: July 2017

Due to the high-energy efficiency and scalability, the clustering routing algorithm has been widely used in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). In order to gather information more efficiently, each sensor node transmits data to its Cluster Head (CH) to which it belongs, by multi-hop communication. However, the multi-hop communication in the cluster brings the problem of excessive energy consumption of the relay nodes which are closer to the CH. These nodes’ energy will be consumed more quickly than the farther nodes, which brings the negative influence on load balance for the whole networks. Therefore, we propose an energy-efficient distributed clustering algorithm based on fuzzy approach with non-uniform distribution (EEDCF). During CHs’ election, we take nodes’ energies, nodes’ degree and neighbor nodes’ residual energies into consideration as the input parameters. In addition, we take advantage of Takagi, Sugeno and Kang (TSK) fuzzy model instead of traditional method as our inference system to guarantee the quantitative analysis more reasonable. In our scheme, each sensor node calculates the probability of being as CH with the help of fuzzy inference system in a distributed way. The experimental results indicate EEDCF algorithm is better than some current representative methods in aspects of data transmission, energy consumption and lifetime of networks.
Landmark-Based Drift Compensation Algorithm for Inertial Pedestrian Navigation
Authors: Munoz Diaz Estefania , Caamano Maria , Sánchez Francisco
Published: July 2017

The navigation of pedestrians based on inertial sensors, i.e., accelerometers and gyroscopes, has experienced a great growth over the last years. However, the noise of medium- and low-cost sensors causes a high error in the orientation estimation, particularly in the yaw angle. This error, called drift, is due to the bias of the z-axis gyroscope and other slow changing errors, such as temperature variations. We propose a seamless landmark-based drift compensation algorithm that only uses inertial measurements. The proposed algorithm adds a great value to the state of the art, because the vast majority of the drift elimination algorithms apply corrections to the estimated position, but not to the yaw angle estimation. Instead, the presented algorithm computes the drift value and uses it to prevent yaw errors and therefore position errors. In order to achieve this goal, a detector of landmarks, i.e., corners and stairs, and an association algorithm have been developed. The results of the experiments show that it is possible to reliably detect corners and stairs using only inertial measurements eliminating the need that the user takes any action, e.g., pressing a button. Associations between re-visited landmarks are successfully made taking into account the uncertainty of the position. After that, the drift is computed out of all associations and used during a post-processing stage to obtain a low-drifted yaw angle estimation, that leads to successfully drift compensated trajectories. The proposed algorithm has been tested with quasi-error-free turn rate measurements introducing known biases and with medium-cost gyroscopes in 3D indoor and outdoor scenarios.
Motor Imagery EEG Classification for Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Using Fractal Dimension and Fisher’s Criterion-Based Channel Selection
Authors: Liu Yi-Hung , Huang Shiuan , Huang Yi-De
Published: July 2017

Motor imagery is based on the volitional modulation of sensorimotor rhythms (SMRs); however, the sensorimotor processes in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are impaired, leading to degenerated motor imagery ability. Thus, motor imagery classification in ALS patients has been considered challenging in the brain–computer interface (BCI) community. In this study, we address this critical issue by introducing the Grassberger–Procaccia and Higuchi’s methods to estimate the fractal dimensions (GPFD and HFD, respectively) of the electroencephalography (EEG) signals from ALS patients. Moreover, a Fisher’s criterion-based channel selection strategy is proposed to automatically determine the best patient-dependent channel configuration from 30 EEG recording sites. An EEG data collection paradigm is designed to collect the EEG signal of resting state and the imagination of three movements, including right hand grasping (RH), left hand grasping (LH), and left foot stepping (LF). Five late-stage ALS patients without receiving any SMR training participated in this study. Experimental results show that the proposed GPFD feature is not only superior to the previously-used SMR features (mu and beta band powers of EEG from sensorimotor cortex) but also better than HFD. The accuracies achieved by the SMR features are not satisfactory (all lower than 80%) in all binary classification tasks, including RH imagery vs. resting, LH imagery vs. resting, and LF imagery vs. resting. For the discrimination between RH imagery and resting, the average accuracies of GPFD in 30-channel (without channel selection) and top-five-channel configurations are 95.25% and 93.50%, respectively. When using only one channel (the best channel among the 30), a high accuracy of 91.00% can still be achieved by the GPFD feature and a linear discriminant analysis (LDA) classifier. The results also demonstrate that the proposed Fisher’s criterion-based channel selection is capable of removing a large amount of redundant and noisy EEG channels. The proposed GPFD feature extraction combined with the channel selection strategy can be used as the basis for further developing high-accuracy and high-usability motor imagery BCI systems from which the patients with ALS can really benefit.
Analyzing the Effect of Ocean Internal Variability on Depth-Integrated Steric Sea-Level Rise Trends Using a Low-Resolution CESM Ensemble
Authors: Hogan Emily , Sriver Ryan
Published: July 2017

Ocean heat uptake is a key indicator of climate change, in part because it contributes to sea-level rise. Quantifying the uncertainties surrounding ocean heat uptake and sea-level rise are important in assessing climate-related risks. Here, comprehensive global climate model ensembles are used to evaluate uncertainties surrounding decadal trends in depth-integrated global steric sea-level rise due to thermal expansion of the ocean. Results are presented against observational estimates, which are used as a guide to the state of recent literature. The first ensemble uses the Community Earth System Model (CESM), which samples the effects of internal variability within the coupled Earth system including contributions from the sub-surface ocean. We compare and contrast these results with an ensemble based on the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5), which samples the combined effects of structural model differences and internal variability. The effects of both internal variability and structural model differences contribute substantially to uncertainties in modeled steric sea-level trends for recent decades, and the magnitude of these effects varies with depth. The 95% range in total sea-level rise trends across the CESM ensemble is 0.151 mm·year−1 for 1957–2013, while this range is 0.895 mm·year−1 for CMIP5. These ranges increase during the more recent decade of 2005–2015 to 0.509 mm·year−1 and 1.096 mm·year−1 for CESM and CMIP5, respectively. The uncertainties are amplified for regional assessments, highlighting the importance of both internal variability and structural model differences when considering uncertainties surrounding modeled sea-level trends. Results can potentially provide useful constraints on estimations of global and regional sea-level variability, in particular for areas with few observations such as the deep ocean and Southern Hemisphere.
CUBIC SPLINE HISTOPOLATION*
Authors: Kirsiaed Evely , Oja Peeter , Shah Gul Wali
Published: July 2017

Cubic spline histopolation with arbitrary placement of histogram knots and spline knots between them is studied. Classical boundary conditions are used. Histopolating spline is represented with the help of second moments and particular integrals. The systems determining these parameters are investigated in different cases where diagonal dominance in matrices takes place or may be absent.
A NEW CREATIVE KURDISH CONSTITUTION IN THE MIDDLE EAST / NAUJOJI KŪRYBINĖ KURDŲ KONSTITUCIJA VIDURINIUOSIUOSE RYTUOSE
Authors: RADPEY Loqman , ROSE Gregory
Published: July 2017

The uprising in Syria since 2011 has created opportunities for creative approaches to Kurdish self-rule. The decision of Bashar al-Assad’s armed forces to withdraw from Kurdish cities in Northern Syria enabled Kurdish parties to take charge of local state institutions, declare self-rule, and to replace Syria’s flags with their own. The Democratic Union Party (Syria) announced a new constitution on 21 July 2013 that it called a “social contract”. On the basis of that constitution, Kurdish autonomous self-rule was formed comprising of three initial cantons. The principle of equality of all groups and the renunciation of the nation-state are revolutionary dimensions of the new constitution. In this paper, the new constitution’s creative dimensions are described and analyzed using a descriptive-analytic approach. The study aims to describe the articles of the constitution to analyze how minority Yazidis, Armenians, Arabs, Christians, Chechens, and Kurds might promote this model for the rest of Syria as a form of “democratic federalism”.
EVOKING TEACHER CREATIVITY WHILE USING SOCIAL MEDIA / DĖSTYTOJŲ KŪRYBIŠKUMO SUŽADINIMAS NAUDOJANT SOCIALINES MEDIJAS
Authors: ŠLIOGERIENĖ Jolita , VALŪNAITĖ-OLEŠKEVIČIENĖ Giedrė
Published: July 2017

Recently a question whether good teaching is creative teaching has been widely discussed however little attention has been paid to creative teachers themselves who face a challenge to teach with, through or for the creativity. The article stresses the importance of creativity in higher education and explores the expression of teacher creativity while using social media in university studies. The research is based on Hans-Georg Gadamer’s philosophical approach as well as the interpretation of creativity concept by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. The paper presents an overview of teacher “lived experience” that reveals the elements influencing their creativity; it addresses the key points for better understanding of the relation of the most influential elements provoking teacher creativity. Having identified the factors influencing the expression of teacher creativity while using social media, the conclusion is drawn that teacher creativity is sustained by inner creative personality characteristics, external institutional and social environment influence including active idea exchange and implementation. Applying social media in university studies, mastering it themselves and using it for teaching, teachers get involved in the continuous university study processes, the success of which is sustained by the traits of creative personalities and the environment supportive to creativity.
The Effect of Anterior Uveitis and Previously Undiagnosed Spondyloarthritis: Results from the DUET Cohort
Authors: O’Rourke Michael , Haroon Muhammad , Alfarasy Salman , Ramasamy Pathma , FitzGerald Oliver , Murphy Conor C.
Published: July 2017

Objective.

Anterior uveitis (AU) is an intraocular inflammatory condition closely linked to spondyloarthritis (SpA). Clinical disease variables may often underestimate the true effect of the disease on patient’s quality of life. This study examines AU and associated undiagnosed SpA using established quality-of-life tools to inform clinicians of the effect of these diseases.

Methods.

The Dublin Uveitis Evaluation Tool (DUET) algorithm was developed and validated in a cohort of consecutive patients with AU who were all screened by a rheumatologist for the presence of SpA. This same cohort completed vision-related [Vision Core Measure 1 (VCM1)] and general health [Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 (SF-36)] questionnaires when AU was active and resolved.

Results.

VCM1 scores improved with AU resolution. VCM1 did not correlate with vision at baseline, but did on resolution of inflammation. Physical SF-36 scores were reduced during AU episodes and improved on resolution remaining below those of population norms. Subanalysis revealed that SpA scores were more affected than the idiopathic AU group.

Conclusion.

AU affects physical aspects of quality of life more than is appreciated by clinical variables, especially in those with pre-existing, undiagnosed SpA. This study is unique in examining the effect of SpA on patients prior to diagnosis. These results highlight the role of the ophthalmologist in identifying patients with SpA who present with AU using the DUET algorithm.
Vitamin B Supplementation: What's the Right Choice for Your Patients?
Authors: Leahy Laura G.
Published: July 2017

As many patients turn to vitamins and supplements to enhance energy, relieve fatigue, or generally feel better, it is important to understand the connection between the B vitamins and psychiatric symptomatology. Vitamins B6, B8, and B12 have been shown not only to reduce psychiatric symptoms but also shorten the duration of illness. Vitamin B9, also known as folate or folic acid, has also been associated with psychiatric symptoms. However, when patients lack a specific genetic enzyme, which converts folate/folic acid to its most usable form, L-methylfolate, the neuroprotective and neuropsychiatric benefits are lost. L-methylfolate allows for the synthesis of the three major neurochemicals—serotonin, nor-epinephrine, and dopamine—across the blood–brain barrier. Exploring the conversion of folate/folic acid into L-methylfolate and the various polymorphisms of the MTHFR gene and examining the B vitamins associated with the treatment of psychiatric symptoms will further allow nurses to comprehensively treat their patients with the appropriate B vitamins. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 55
(7), 7–11.]
Immature Odonata-Anisoptera in the Iguatemi river basin, upper Paraná River, Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil
Authors: Boneto Daiane Dias , Batista-Silva Valéria Flávia , Soares Juliane Alessandra Cavalieri , Kashiwaqui Elaine Antoniassi Luiz , Oliveira Iana Aparecida Dalla Valle de
Published: July 2017

This study present an inventory of the genera of Odonata-Anisoptera in lotic environments of the Iguatemi River basin, upper Paraná River, Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil. Samplings were performed from December 2006 to February 2009 in the Iguatemi River and eight streams of the basin. We collected 739 immature Odonata, distributed in 25 genera and three families; of which one genus represent a new record for the Mato Grosso do Sul State. Progomphus, Tramea, Elasmotemis, Macrothemis, Aphyla and Phylocycla were the most representative genera in the Iguatemi River basin. The genus accumulation curve predicts an increase of new genera for the Iguatemi River basin.
Germination and seedling structure of Ruprechtia laxiflora Meissn. (Polygonaceae)
Authors: Müller Rafael Espanhol , Souza Luiz Antonio De , Pastorini Lindamir Hernandez , Romagnolo Mariza Barion
Published: July 2017

Germination of diaspores and the seedling structure of Ruprechtia laxiflora Meissn. (Polygonaceae) which is a secondary species frequent in forest remnants are described. Seedlings were embedded in hydroxymethacrylate and sectioned in a rotary microtome according to usual techniques in plant anatomy. For bioassays of germination, the experimental design was completely randomized in a 3x2 bifactorial arrangement, corresponding to three temperatures (20, 25 and 30°C) and two light conditions (photoperiod and continuous darkness) for the diaspores newly harvested and in a 4x2 bifactorial arrangement, corresponding to four temperatures (15, 20, 25 and 30°C) and two light conditions (photoperiod and continuous darkness) for diaspores analyzed after storage. There was no interaction between the factors light condition and temperature for germination parameters analyzed. However, the temperature affected the germination and diaspores maintained at 25°C showed a shorter mean time and higher germination speed index. Seedlings are phanerocotylar and epigeal with tetrarch root, intermediate-low type of root-stem transition and trilacunar cotyledonary node.
Friction Stir Spot Welding of AZ31B Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Ramesh Babu S. , Nithin M. , Pavithran S. , Parameshwaran B
Published: July 2017

The Electrical Resistance Welding (ERW) of Magnesium and Aluminium is more difficult than steel because the welding machines must provide high currents and exact pressures in order to provide the heat necessary to melt the magnesium for proper fusion at the interface in order to produce a sound weld. Further, resistance welding of magnesium requires a backup plate made of steel to conduct the heat to the workpiece material. To overcome this problem, Friction Stir Spot Welding (FSSW) has been developed. In this study, the hardness distribution and the tensile shear strength of FSSW welds in the AZ31B Magnesium alloy has been investigated and it has been found that tool rotational speed and dwell time plays a major role in determining the weld strength. From the experimental study, a tool rotational speed of 1100 rpm and dwell time of 20 s produced good shear strength of 2824 N and the corresponding grain size was 4.54 μm. This result is very well supported by microstructural examinations and hardness distribution studies.
Optimization Analysis of Process Parameters of Friction Stir Welded Dissimilar Joints of Aluminium Alloys
Authors: Rajesh Kannan Subburaj , Lakshmipathy J. , Vignesh Kumar M. , Manisekar K. , Murugan N.
Published: July 2017

Friction stir welding (FSW) is one of the new technique for welding materials in solid state welding process. In this proposed work we are using FSW to join the two dissimilar alloys of aluminium. The 6mm thick aluminum plates of aluminium 5086 and aluminum 7075 plates are considered for welding. These have been considered due to their application in various fields. In this experimental process Taguchi’s L9 orthogonal array method is used for optimizing the three process parameters namely rotational speed, axial force and welding speed. To produce a better joint the tensile strength is predicted for the optimum welding parameters and also their percentage of contribution is calculated, by applying the effect of analysis of variance. Depends upon the experimental study, the rotational speed is found better over the other process parameters, which enhances the quality of the weld. The tensile strength has been found for the optimum parameters and the result found during the experiment was 290Mpa which was higher than the base metal strength of aluminium 5086 alloy. The SEM fractograph analysis was done on the optimum parameters welded joints to show the fracture behaviour of tensile test which justifies the visual inspection results of brittle and ductile failures.
Modeling the Performance Measures of Public Sector Banks
Authors: Tata Harikrishna , Vijaya Sai Nimmagadda
Published: July 2017

The progression of an economy is significantly dependent upon deployment as well as optimum utilization of resources and most importantly operational efficiency of the various sectors, of which banking sector plays a very vital role. Banking sector helps in stimulation of capital formation, innovation and monetization in addition to facilitation of monetary policy. It is imperative to carefully evaluate and analyse the performance of banks to ensure a healthy financial system and an efficient economy. Performance measurement is the most important activity of a management's control function in any organization. Performance measurement can be done in a systematic way for the entire organization to determine things, such as determining the needs of customers and seeing if they are able to fulfill their requests or not and making sure that the taken decisions are made with facts.
Effects of Nano Particles on the Microstructure of LM 25 (A356) Alloy Manufactured by Squeeze Casting
Authors: Nagendran N. , Gayathri N. , Shanmuganathan V.K. , Praveen S.
Published: July 2017

Conventional casting process cannot produce parts as strong as forged parts. Also there are chances of many casting defects such as porosity, hot tears, shrinkage, pin holes, blow holes, mould shift flash, slag, short casting, when casting method is used for fabrication. Thus cast parts only have low mechanical properties. Recent trend is to use Squeeze Casting, which results in superior mechanical and casting properties. This technique is a hybrid metal forming process combining features of both casting and forging in one operation. This process is suitable for low melting alloys like iron and nickel with mechanical properties enhancement. Reduction in micro porosity in cast part and also reduction in machining. Historically, the series of LM were developed for high strength, corrosion resistance, and good machinability for many applications. In this study Squeeze Casting process has been used, since it has porosity free equiaxed grain components of LM 25 composition and cylindrical shaped castings were manufactured successfully by squeeze casting machine at high temperature and high pressure. The first part of the study is about the microstructure of the LM 25 Al-7 Si-0.3 Mg-0.5 Fe alloy. The casting products were made by addition of nano particles and without nano particles. The size of bar casted was by squeeze casting process. It was 260 mm*46mm (7 Pieces). Microstructure of Cast without squeeze and without stirrer, without squeeze and with stirrer, with squeeze and with stirrer Alloys was studied. The second part of the work was the heat treatment process of the finished product. Heat treatment process was conducted at 490○C and for the heat treated metals was quenched at 30○C (water) for the heat treated and unheated metal casting product were taken and microstructure were studied. The results were compared before and after the heat treatment process for addition of nano particles and without nano particles.
Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia Thin Films via MOCVD for Thermal Barrier and Protective Applications in Injection Molding
Authors: Fornalczyk Gregor , Sommer Michaela , Mumme Frank
Published: July 2017

Steel tools, which are used in industrial high-throughput processes like injection molding, are susceptible for wear and corrosion due to rapid cyclic temperature and pressure fluctuation as well as the use of abrasive polymers. For the protection of tool surfaces high quality ceramic thin films can be applied by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). In addition to protective properties ceramic materials like yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) are able to thermally insulate tool surfaces providing a more precise temperature regulation with intent to avoid the formation of surface flaws, e.g. weld lines, in the later plastic parts. At the same time it enables the shortening of cycle times as well as the decrease of energy demands during the molding process.
In this work we demonstrate the fabrication of zirconia based thin films and multilayer systems on steel tools with complex 3D surfaces via MOCVD using metal acetylacetonates as precursor materials. Coating development was carried out by measuring the film thicknesses at different parameter settings. The usage of autonomous liquid flow controllers enables the formation of multilayer systems as well as the control of crystallinity by addition of different dopants to the material. For process development substrates were engineered according to tool geometry containing typical cavities and defined cracks with aspect ratios up to 1:60. That application enables the proof of conformity and the verification of homogeneous film thickness distribution. Exploitation of these results offers the coating of tools, which are tested regarding their desired properties by industrial project partners under production conditions.
Application of Eco-Efficiency Analysis to Assess Three Different Recycling Technologies for Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics (CFRPs)
Authors: Dieterle Michael , Seiler Elisa , Viere Tobias
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the eco-efficiency of three different recycling technologies for carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) waste, and to identify the preferable and most efficient solution. Recycling via mechanical shredding, microwave pyrolysis and subcritical solvolysis is compared and comprehensive primary data on energy demand and process throughput are examined. Following an ecological and economic assessment, the results are normalized and summarized into three single-score indicators. To decide which solution is most efficient, economic and ecological data are plotted on an eco-efficiency portfolio. The achieved results demonstrate that the eco-efficiency of the recycling technologies investigated is entirely positive on an industrial scale, and that the efficient use of CFRPs across the entire life cycle is possible. The material recycling of CFRP waste is consequently a promising topic for future development. The use of recycled material as conductivity additives in secondary applications can be considered as a valuable option for all three technologies, although the benefits of recycling are strongly dependent on the quality and quantity of the recycled material. Depending on the resources substituted in a secondary application, different recycling technologies offer considerable advantages. To ensure a consistently high quality of output materials on an industrial scale, specific process parameters have to be identified, for which, further research is necessary.
Recycled Carbon Fibers in Complex Structural Parts - Organic Sheets Made of rCF Staple Fiber Yarns
Authors: Goergen Christian , Baz Stephan , Mitschang Peter , Gresser Götz T.
Published: July 2017

In order to sustainably establish carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites (CFRPC) in the market on an industry scale, solutions on how to recycle these new materials have to be developed. Quasi-continuously aligned carbon staple fiber structures in organic sheets made of recycled carbon are one approach which will be dealt with in this article. The process chain as well as the mechanical properties will be presented. Moreover, the specific feature of staple fiber yarns to be able to plastically deform under process temperature, enabling new degrees of deep-drawing of CFRPC organic sheets in the thermoforming process, will be highlighted.
FE Analysis of the Influence of Fiber Orientation to Shearing and Wrinkling of Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastic Parts
Authors: Engel Bernd , Graef Jasmin
Published: July 2017

This work presents the influence of deviations of fiber orientations of warp and weft yarns to the shear stress vs. shear angle behavior and the formation of wrinkles of fabric reinforced thermoplastics. FE results of bias-extension tests and the forming of a double dome part will be investigated with angular misalignment of the yarns and/or deviations of the blank to its loading direction. The prepregs or organic sheets may have imperfections like fiber misalignment or the prepregs of multilayered sheets are twisted against each other. Furthermore, there may be deviations to the idealized orientation caused by the operator or cutting machine for example.
Factors Influencing Patients’ Sleep in the Intensive Care Unit: Perceptions of Patients and Clinical Staff
Authors: Ding Qinglan , Redeker Nancy S. , Pisani Margaret A. , Yaggi Henry K. , Knauert Melissa P.
Published: July 2017

Background

Multiple factors are believed to contribute to disruption of patients’ sleep and negatively affect clinical outcomes in the intensive care unit. Achieving restorative sleep for critically ill patients remains a challenge.

Objectives

To explore the perceptions and beliefs of staff, patients, and surrogates regarding the environmental and nonenvironmental factors in the medical intensive care unit that affect patients’ sleep.

Methods

This qualitative study included 24 medical intensive care unit staff (7 physicians, 5 respiratory therapists, 10 nurses, and 2 patient-care assistants), 8 patients, and 6 patient surrogates. Semistructured interviews were conducted, and qualitative analysis of content was used to code, categorize, and identify interview themes.

Results

Interview responses revealed 4 themes with related subthemes: (1) The overnight medical intensive care unit environment does affect sleep, (2) nonenvironmental factors such as difficult emotions and anxiety also affect sleep, (3) respondents’ perceptions about sleep quality in the medical intensive care unit were highly variable, and (4) suggestions for sleep improvement included reassuring patients and care-clustering strategies.

Conclusions

Results of this study suggest that environment is not the only factor influencing patients’ sleep. Decreases in environmental sources of disturbance are necessary but not sufficient for sleep improvement. Guideline-recommended clustered care is needed to provide adequate sleep opportunity, but patients’ emotions and anxiety also must be addressed.
Immune Cell Dynamics in Rhesus Macaques Infected with a Brazilian Strain of Zika Virus
Authors: Silveira Eduardo L. V. , Rogers Kenneth A. , Gumber Sanjeev , Amancha Praveen , Xiao Peng , Woollard Shawna M. , Byrareddy Siddappa N. , Teixeira Mauro Martins , Villinger Francois
Published: July 2017

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito-borne and sexually transmitted flavivirus that is associated with fetal CNS-damaging malformations during pregnancy in humans. This study documents the viral kinetics and immune responses in rhesus macaques infected with a clinical ZIKV Brazilian isolate. We evaluated the viral kinetics and immune responses induced after an i.v. infection with a Brazilian ZIKV clinical isolate (HS-2015-BA-01) in rhesus macaques for up to 142 d. ZIKV-specific Ab-secreting cells, germinal center reactions, and monocyte, dendritic cell, NK, and T cell frequencies were monitored. ZIKV loads were readily detected in plasma (until day 5 or 7), semen and urine (until days 7 and 14), and saliva (until day 42), but the viremia was rapidly controlled. No detectable clinical manifestations were observed. However, lymph node hyperplasia was clearly visible postviremia but was associated with low frequencies of ZIKV-specific Ab-secreting cells in lymph nodes and bone marrow, correlating with low Ab titers. CD14+/CD16− monocytes and myeloid CD11chi dendritic cells decreased in blood, whereas NK and T cell numbers were only marginally altered during the course of the study. ZIKV infection caused a significant lymphoid tissue activation but limited induction of ZIKV-specific B cells, suggesting that these parameters need to be considered for ZIKV vaccine design.
Perceived parental rejection mediates the effects of previous maltreatment on emotional and behavioural outcomes in Chinese adolescents whereas mental illness has no moderating effect
Authors: Xiao Bo , Liu Jianbo , Gong Jingbo , Luo Xuerong
Published: July 2017

Objective: This study assessed the mediating role of perceived parental rejection in the relationship between childhood maltreatment experience and behavioural problems in Chinese adolescents.Methods: A total of 2484 adolescents (1305 males and 1179 females; aged 12–16 years) from Hunan Province, China, participated in the study. Behavioural problems, parental rejection scores and child abuse experiences were evaluated by the Child Behavior Checklist (parental version), the Memories of Parental Rearing Behavior Scale and the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, separately. Mediating effects were examined by structural equation modelling using Amos 20 software.Results: The study found that perceived maternal rejection partially mediated the association between abuse and internalising behaviours in the male cohort, whereas perceived father’s rejection partially mediated this association in the female cohort. However, mental illness had no moderating effect on these relationships.Conclusion: These results are consistent with the literature on maltreatment and parent-child relationships and provide empirical support for the view that emotional and behavioural problems related to perceived parental rejection underlie the development of psychosocial problems in adolescents.