bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Field Investigation for Identifying the Effects of Dynamic Track Stabilizing Operation on Track Geometrical Indices
Authors: Jadidirendi Kazem , Zakeri Jabbar Ali , Teng Hualiang (Harry)
Published: June 2015

At the construction stage of the track or during the operation period, in order to adjust the geometrical alignment of railway superstructure, a mechanized maintenance train (MDZ) track maintenance machines including tamping, ballast regulating, and dynamic track stabilizing (DTS) machines are used. Due to the uncertain effects of DTS machines on track geometry, one section of railway line around Tehran which was under almost heavy commute and freight traffic was selected and the influence of DTS on the track’s geometrical indices was investigated.

For this purpose, considering the longitudinal profile of the track, the entire track which was 15 km (almost 9.5 miles) were divided into similar sections and each section was marked, each direct and curved line was divided to exactly 2 sections and in first section both tamping and stabilizing applied while in the second section just tamping machine worked without any stabilizing to fulfill both stabilizing and tamping operations on the selected sections and solely tamping operation on the other sections. Following these tasks, track recording machine, EM120, measured the geometrical parameters of the track within 1, 3, 6 and 8 month intervals. In order to determine the variation of TGI and J indices, the geometrical index of the track were analyzed. The present paper is elaborated on the analyzed results.
CBTC Field Test and Commissioning
Authors: Diemunsch Kenneth
Published: June 2015

Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) technology is the most advanced train control system for urban railway infrastructures. It is very different from conventional relay based signaling systems and more complex than most cab signaling systems. CBTC functions are numerous, highly complex with customized details for each project. They cannot be tested for all possible conditions at all locations. Knowledge of the CTBC system and experience with train control commissioning are keys to performing enough tests to detect most issues but permit the start of revenue service as early as possible. The testing strategy proposed by the CBTC supplier is the result of years of experience with the goal of minimizing expensive field tests while demonstrating that the system will work properly in revenue service. Despite the numerous tests performed before revenue service, it is inevitable that operating challenges will be faced during the first months of CBTC system operation.

The recent Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Std 1474.4-2011 Recommended Practice for Functional Testing of a Communications-Based Train Control System [1] provides a good description how and where CBTC functions should be tested. However, it does not describe the sequence of tests in the context of a project where CBTC is deployed on a transit property. This paper presents the sequence of field tests required to commission a CBTC system and provides insight based on experience with several CBTC projects in the last decade.
Crashworthiness Progress: U.S. Freight Locomotives, 1990-2014
Authors: Iden Michael , French Peter
Published: June 2015

The design of freight locomotives for U.S. railroads began changing in late-1990 with the introduction of the first industry crashworthiness standard for the front nose of newly-manufactured freight. Between 1990 and 2008, that industry standard was revised and upgraded four times. In 1995 an industry standard for the crashworthiness of fuel tanks mounted underneath newly-manufactured freight locomotives was also introduced. Effective at the end of 2008, both of the industry standards were incorporated by reference into a new U.S. federal regulation mandating crashworthiness features on newly-manufactured locomotives effective with deliveries to railroads in 2009.

In addition to the crashworthiness-specific design changes, in 1992 and 1993 both of the major U.S. locomotive manufacturers introduced new designs for the attachment of the truck (bogie) assemblies to locomotive underframes; these changes were to facilitate the use of new trucks (bogies) producing higher adhesion for greater tractive effort. The “deep traction pin” designs also had a positive effect on the crashworthiness of new fuel tanks by reducing the chance of truck separation from the underframe (and impacting the fuel tank) during accidents. The changes cited here were for newly-manufactured freight locomotives, with retrofit to older locomotives impossible or extremely difficult to accomplish with similar results.

This paper briefly reviews the introduction of the crashworthiness features described, and also offers the first retrospective look at (a) how extensively the evolving crashworthiness features have reached across the U.S. freight locomotive fleet (through acquisition of newly-manufactured freight locomotives) and (b) attempts to measure the effectiveness of the various crashworthiness design changes in saving lives and reducing injuries of in-cab railroad employees.

It is believed that this paper is the first and only assessment to date of cumulative U.S. freight locomotive crashworthiness progress and its statistical impact on locomotive crew safety since the early 2000’s.
Study on Improving Rail Energy Efficiency (E2): Best Practices and Strategies
Authors: Brecher Aviva , Shurland Melissa
Published: June 2015

A recent Volpe Center report [1] for the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Rail Energy, Environment, and Engine (E3) Technology research and development program reviewed rail industry best practices (BPs) and strategies for improving energy efficiency (E2) and environmental sustainability. The review included examples of and opportunities for adoption of international transferrable BPs, and US technologies for equipment, operations and logistics software tools that have measurably improved E2 performance for passenger and freight railroads. Drivers providing renewed impetus for rail industry E2 advances include environmental compliance requirements with US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) locomotive emission standards, US Department of Transportation Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality improvement program grants, state, regional and urban clean diesel campaigns, as well as the FRA National Rail Plan, and High-Speed Intercity Passenger Rail (HSIPR) initiatives. The report presented comparative rail system energy efficiency data and trends relative to competing modes, illustrated the benefits of energy-efficient technologies, and of alternative fuels use. Based on a comprehensive literature review and on experts’ inputs, the report highlighted models of corporate rail sustainability plans and system-wide BPs and success stories. Available rail equipment and operational practices proven to improve E2 with environmental and economic benefits for all rail industry segments were illustrated. Findings and recommendations for further improving rail E2 and sustainability were tailored to the specific needs and goals of intercity and commuter passenger rail, and freight railroads (Class I-III). Key opportunities highlighted included: public-private partnerships (P3) with Federal agencies (FRA, EPA/SmartWay) for joint research, development test and evaluation (RDT&E)on advanced equipment (electric and hybrid, or dual fuel locomotives), or alternative fuels (biodiesel, CNG/LNG, Fuel cells/Hydrogen); participation in international rail organizations (UIC) and trade associations (AAR, AREMA, APTA, AASHTO), and partnering with regional and State environmental protection agencies for cross-enterprise E2 and sustainability improvements.
TCRP A-40 Manual to Improve Rail Transit Safety at Platform/Train Interfaces: Summary of Platform-Train Interface Incidents
Authors: Anderson Dylan , Hunter-Zaworski Kate
Published: June 2015

The overall goal of the project is to develop a manual for the Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) that will allow practitioners to improve safety at rail public transportation platform/train and platform/guideway interfaces. Specific objectives include expanding upon previous safety studies and providing recommendations for mitigation strategies. Key factors that affect safety in relation to the platform-vehicle interface (PTI) have been identified through data collection. For the purpose of this study PTI refers to incidents related to the interface between the train and platform also known as gap incidents. Factors were analyzed to determine appropriate measures that would allow transit agencies to both prevent and minimize consequences of these incidents. This paper focuses primarily on platform vehicle interface incident data that were collected from four large transit operators in the United States.
Modifying the One-Dimensional Response of Ballast Box System Using Resiliently Bound Ballast
Authors: Ho Carlton L. , Kashani Hamed Faghihi , Humphrey Dennis L. , Hyslip James P. , Moorhead William H.
Published: June 2015

The transition zones especially railroad bridge transitions are one the weakest track sections that need more maintenance in order to keep a good track performance. These locations are also commonly create noise and vibration pollution which is unpleasant specifically in urban parts of the city. A new product known as Resiliently Bound Ballast (RBB) is a new engineered material composed of Ballast, tire derived aggregate (TDA) and proprietary elastomeric epoxy binder which can be manufactured with different mixtures to meet various engineering properties. In order to study the workability of this material in railroad bridges, in this research a one dimensional (1D) two degree of freedom (2DOF) composite RBB-Ballast track on concrete deck bridge has been modeled with different RBB thicknesses from 0.01 in. (0.025 cm) to 23.99 in. (60.94 cm) and material damping of 2.5, 5 and 10 %. The range of properties for RBB are based upon values obtained from static and dynamic testing. The results show that the most peak amplitude reduction occurs between 2.5% to 5% damping, RBB has the ability to dissipate energy over a broader range of frequencies and as the damping increases, the RBB thickness becomes more effective in track dynamic performance.
Computation of Common Normal Between Wheelset and Rail as an Optimization Problem
Authors: Singamaneni Ashok , Ballamudi Sunil K. , Fallahi Behrooz
Published: June 2015

Computation of Common Normal between a wheelset and rail is a key problem in simulation of wheel/rail interaction. Such an algorithm must be robust and efficient. In this work, computation of location of the common normal is formulated as an optimization problem. This framework has the advantage of being able to use optimization techniques for determination of location of common normal as an alternative Newton method. The numerical results obtained using Trust-Region Method are presented.
Liquefied Natural Gas Tender Crashworthiness Research
Authors: Tyrell David
Published: June 2015

Research is being conducted to develop technical information needed to formulate effective natural gas fuel tender crashworthiness standards. This research is being performed for the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA’s) Office of Research, Development, and Technology, and intended to facilitate industry efforts to use natural gas as a locomotive fuel. Strategies to assure crashworthiness during moderate accidents, such as train-to-train collisions at speeds up to 40 mph, are being evaluated.

This research applies the approach FRA has used to develop technical information on locomotive, hazmat tank car, and diesel fuel tank crashworthiness. There are four primary tasks:

1. Definition of collision scenarios

2. Evaluation of traditional designs

3. Evaluation of alternative designs

4. Recommendation of effective crashworthiness strategies

The tender scenarios have been drafted from reviews of freight train accidents and of scenarios developed for locomotives, hazmat tank cars, and fuel tanks. From these reviews, five scenarios were selected. These scenarios are intended to bound the range of collisions that a tender may experience, are being used to evaluate the crashworthiness of traditional tender designs, and will be used to evaluate alternative design tenders. The five candidate scenarios are:

1. Train-to-train collision

2. Grade-crossing accident

3. Tender derailment and rollover

4. Impact into tender tank shell during derailment

5. Impact into tender tank head during derailment

As part of previous research on locomotives and passenger equipment, a range of crashworthiness analysis techniques were developed. These include simplified techniques, which can be performed rapidly and provide essential results, and detailed computer simulations which provide a wealth of information. The crashworthiness performance of a hypothetical tender design has been evaluated using simplified techniques. Simplified techniques include quasi-static crush analysis of structural elements and lumped-parameter analysis of train dynamics. The results suggest that efforts to enhance crashworthiness should principally be directed toward the train-to-train scenario. Work is ongoing to develop strategies for improving tender crashworthiness.

This research is being conducted cooperatively with the Association of American Railroads (AAR). The research results are being shared with the AAR’s Natural Gas Fuel Tender Technical Advisory Group (NGFT TAG). The NGFT TAG is developing industry standards, including crashworthiness requirements, for revenue-service natural gas fuel tenders. There is a companion paper which describes crashworthiness research sponsored by AAR, including detailed computer simulations of tender crashworthiness. This paper describes development of scenarios and simplified analyses of tender crashworthiness.
Role of viscogens on the macromolecular assemblies of fibrinogen at liquid/air and solid/air interfaces
Authors: Sankaranarayanan Kamatchi
Published: June 2015

In this study, an attempt has been made to understand the organization and association of fibrinogen (Fg) in solvent environment induced by viscogens such as 1-ethyl 3-methyl imidazolium ethyl sulfate (IL-emes), Ficoll, and Trehalose. The author observed that Fg in IL-emes adsorbed on solid surface shows higher β-sheet conformation. Shear viscosity measured using quartz crystal microbalance, for Fg in IL-emes was highest with a corresponding higher adsorbed mass 3.26 μg/cm2. Associated assemblies of the protein at the liquid/air interface were monitored with changes in surface tension and were used to calculate work of adhesion. Changes in work of adhesion were used as a tool to measure the adsorption of Fg to solid surfaces in presence of viscogens and highest adsorption was observed for hydrophilic surfaces. Scanning electron microscopy images show Fg in trehalose forms elongated bead like structures implying organization of the protein at the interface. Crowding in the solvent environment induced by viscogens can slow down organization of Fg, leading to macromolecular assemblies near the interface.
Growth of c-axis oriented AlN thin films on titanium alloy substrate by middle frequency magnetron sputtering
Authors: Jiang Jianying , Peng Bin , Zhang Wanli , Wang Yu , Shu Lin , Wang Rui
Published: June 2015

A two-step deposition process was developed to deposit highly c-axis oriented AlN thin films on titanium alloy substrates by middle-frequency magnetron sputtering. Smooth AlN seed layer was first prepared on rough titanium alloy substrate at the first step. Then, c-axis oriented AlN films with small grain size were deposited at the second step. The effects of the growth time at the first and second step on the microstructure and the c-axis orientation of the AlN films were studied. It was found that the c-axis orientation of the AlN films is strongly dependent on the film thickness at the first step and the substrate temperature at the second step. With optimal process conditions, the full-width at half-maximum of the AlN (0002) peak rocking curve decreased to a minimum of 4.1° and the root-mean-square surface roughness of the prepared AlN films was 4.3 nm. The prepared AlN films have potential applications in piezoelectric microelectromechanical-systems and surface acoustic wave devices.
DksA and (p)ppGpp Have Unique and Overlapping Contributions to Haemophilus ducreyi Pathogenesis in Humans
Authors: Holley Concerta L. , Zhang Xinjun , Fortney Kate R. , Ellinger Sheila , Johnson Paula , Baker Beth , Liu Yunlong , Janowicz Diane M. , Katz Barry P. , Munson Robert S. , Spinola Stanley M.
Published: June 2015

The (p)ppGpp-mediated stringent response is important for bacterial survival in nutrient limiting conditions. For maximal effect, (p)ppGpp interacts with the cofactor DksA, which stabilizes (p)ppGpp's interaction with RNA polymerase. We previously demonstrated that (p)ppGpp was required for the virulence of
Haemophilus ducreyi
in humans. Here, we constructed an
H. ducreyi
dksA
mutant and showed it was also partially attenuated for pustule formation in human volunteers. To understand the roles of (p)ppGpp and DksA in gene regulation in
H. ducreyi
, we defined genes potentially altered by (p)ppGpp and DksA deficiency using transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq). In bacteria collected at stationary phase, lack of (p)ppGpp and DksA altered expression of 28% and 17% of
H. ducreyi
open reading frames, respectively, including genes involved in transcription, translation, and metabolism. There was significant overlap in genes differentially expressed in the (p)ppGpp mutant relative to the
dksA
mutant. Loss of (p)ppGpp or DksA resulted in the dysregulation of several known virulence determinants. Deletion of
dksA
downregulated
lspB
and rendered the organism less resistant to phagocytosis and increased its sensitivity to oxidative stress. Both mutants had reduced ability to attach to human foreskin fibroblasts; the defect correlated with reduced expression of the Flp adhesin proteins in the (p)ppGpp mutant but not in the
dksA
mutant, suggesting that DksA regulates the expression of an unknown cofactor(s) required for Flp-mediated adherence. We conclude that both (p)ppGpp and DksA serve as major regulators of
H. ducreyi
gene expression in stationary phase and have both overlapping and unique contributions to pathogenesis.
Evidence that Autophosphorylation of the Major Sporulation Kinase in Bacillus subtilis Is Able To Occur in trans
Authors: Devi Seram Nganbiton , Kiehler Brittany , Haggett Lindsey , Fujita Masaya
Published: June 2015

Entry into sporulation inBacillus subtilisis governed by a multicomponent phosphorelay, a complex version of a two-component system which includes at least three histidine kinases (KinA to KinC), two phosphotransferases (Spo0F and Spo0B), and a response regulator (Spo0A). Among the three histidine kinases, KinA is known as the major sporulation kinase; it is autophosphorylated with ATP upon starvation and then transfers a phosphoryl group to the downstream components in a His-Asp-His-Asp signaling pathway. Our recent study demonstrated that KinA forms a homotetramer, not a dimer, mediated by the N-terminal domain, as a functional unit. Furthermore, when the N-terminal domain was overexpressed in the starving wild-type strain, sporulation was impaired. We hypothesized that this impairment of sporulation could be explained by the formation of a nonfunctional heterotetramer of KinA, resulting in the reduced level of phosphorylated Spo0A (Spo0A∼P), and thus, autophosphorylation of KinA could occur intrans. To test this hypothesis, we generated a series ofB. subtilisstrains expressing homo- or heterogeneous KinA protein complexes consisting of various combinations of the phosphoryl-accepting histidine point mutant protein and the catalytic ATP-binding domain point mutant protein. We found that the ATP-binding-deficient protein was phosphorylated when the phosphorylation-deficient protein was present in a 1:1 stoichiometry in the tetramer complex, while each of the mutant homocomplexes was not phosphorylated. These results suggest that ATP initially binds to one protomer within the tetramer complex and then the γ-phosphoryl group is transmitted to another in atransfashion. We further found that the sporulation defect of each of the mutant proteins is complemented when the proteins are coexpressedin vivo. Taken together, thesein vitroandin vivoresults reinforce the evidence that KinA autophosphorylation is able to occur in atransfashion.

IMPORTANCEAutophosphorylation of histidine kinases is known to occur by either thecis(one subunit of kinase phosphorylating itself within the multimer) or thetrans(one subunit of the multimer phosphorylates the other subunit) mechanism. The present study provided directin vivoandin vitroevidence that autophosphorylation of the major sporulation histidine kinase (KinA) is able to occur intranswithin the homotetramer complex. While the physiological and mechanistic significance of thetransautophosphorylation reaction remains obscure, understanding the detailed reaction mechanism of the sporulation kinase is the first step toward gaining insight into the molecular mechanisms of the initiation of sporulation, which is believed to be triggered by unknown factors produced under conditions of nutrient depletion.
Cutting delays in reversing anticoagulation after intracerebral haemorrhage: three key changes at a UK comprehensive stroke centre
Authors: Parry-Jones Adrian
Published: June 2015

Prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) reduces the risk of early haematoma expansion after intracerebral haemorrhage in patients taking vitamin K antagonists (VKA-ICH), so must be given without delay. We sought to identify and remove key barriers to rapid administration of PCC at our centre. We describe a single UK comprehensive stroke centre cohort study with mixed retrospective (1/1/2008 to 1/12/2010) and prospective (1/12/2010 to 31/7/2014) participant identification and a survey of UK stroke physicians. Seven hundred and thirteen ICH patients were admitted during the study period. Sixty nine of these patients were VKA-ICH. Patients not admitted on the acute stroke pathway (n=8) or who had palliative care commenced immediately on admission (n=6) were excluded, leaving 55 patients in the final analysis. During 2011/12 we identified and implemented service changes to reduce delays in PCC administration. The primary outcome was the time interval between diagnostic brain scan and commencement of PCC treatment (scan-to-needle time).

Secondary outcomes were the time interval between admission and commencement of PCC (door-to-needle time) and symptom onset and commencement of PCC (onset-to-needle time). Three key barriers were identified to rapid administration of PCC, including haematology consultation, collection of PCC from the transfusion laboratory, and obtaining the laboratory INR result. Our survey indicated that these barriers existed at most UK centres. We implemented point-of-care INR testing, moved PCC to the emergency department, and agreed a protocol to administer PCC autonomously. Our scan-to-needle time more than halved, from a median of 127 min (interquartile range (IQR), 111 to 208 min) prior to service changes to 58 min (IQR 50 to 91 min; p<0.001) afterwards. We have substantially reduced delays in delivering PCC to VKA-ICH patients at our centre and our simple changes could be easily implemented at centres facing similar barriers.
Extracapsular cataract extraction training: junior ophthalmology residents’ self-reported satisfaction level with their proficiency and initial learning barrier
Authors: Ting Daniel Shu Wei , Tan Sarah , Lee Shu Yen , Rosman Mohamad , Aw Ai Tee , Yeo Ian Yew San
Published: June 2015

Purpose

To investigate residents’ self-reported satisfaction level with their proficiency in extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) surgery and the initial barriers to learning the procedure.

Methods

This is a single-centre prospective descriptive case series involving eight first-year ophthalmology residents in Singapore National Eye Center. We recorded the demographics, frequency of review by the residents of their own surgical videos and their satisfaction level with their proficiency at each of the ECCE steps using a 5-point Likert scale. All ECCE surgical videos between October 2013 and May 2014 were collected and analysed for the overall time taken for the surgery and the time taken to perform the individual steps of the procedure.

Results

The mean age of the residents was 27.6±1.5 years and 62.5% (5/8) were women. More than half (62.5%, 5/8) reviewed their own surgical videos while 37.5% (3/8) discussed the surgical videos with their peers or supervisors. Of the ECCE steps, the residents were most dissatisfied with their proficiency in performing irrigation and aspiration (87.5%, 7/8), followed by suturing (62.5%, 5/8), intraocular lens insertion (62.5%, 5/8) and tin can capsulotomy (62.5%, 5/8). The average time taken for each ECCE case was 55.0±12.2 min and, of all the steps, most time was spent on suturing (20.5±6.8 min), followed by irrigation and aspiration (5.5±3.6 min) and tin can capsulotomy (3.3±1.8 min).

Conclusions

The first-year ophthalmology residents were most dissatisfied with their proficiency in irrigation/aspiration, suturing and tin can capsulotomy. More training needs to be directed to these areas during teaching sessions in the operating room, wet laboratory or cataract simulation training sessions.
Evaluating the relationship between diploid and tetraploidVaccinium oxycoccos(Ericaceae) in eastern Canada
Authors: Smith Tyler W. , Walinga Charlotte , Wang Song , Kron Paul , Suda Jan , Zalapa Juan
Published: June 2015

Vaccinium oxycoccos s.l. is a complex of diploid and polyploid plants. The taxonomic relationship between the cytotypes is uncertain, with conflicting treatments in recent revisions. To clarify this situation, we investigated the relationships among ploidy, morphology, and genetic diversity in this group. We collected samples from a 1000 km transect in eastern Canada. We used flow cytometry to determine DNA ploidy, completed a morphometric analysis of flowering stems, and assessed genetic diversity using AFLPs. Diploids only occurred growing in mixed populations with tetraploids. There were statistically significant morphological differences between ploidies; however, tetraploid variation encompasses the diploid range for most characters. AFLP data demonstrate that the tetraploids have undergone genetic divergence since their formation, obscuring whether they are auto- or allo-polyploids. Our results agree with previous work using isozymes, which revealed genetic divergence of diploids and tetraploids in North America; and morphometry, which demonstrated clear distinctions between diploids and tetraploids in Europe. We found that diploids and tetraploids co-occur much more frequently than previously recognized, which may explain the conflicting treatment of this group by North American taxonomists. We recommend recognizing diploids and tetraploids as distinct species. The distribution of the two species in North America suggests two hypotheses regarding the successful establishment of the tetraploid: the tetraploids’ success is due to their capacity to exploit novel habitats outside the range of the diploid; or the tetraploid has in fact already out-competed the diploid in large areas of its former range, limiting the diploid to the far north. While we cannot rule out ongoing gene flow between diploids and tetraploids, it is likely a rare phenomenon in this group.
Sonochemical Process for the Preparation of Novel Calcium Zinc Molybdate Nanoparticles
Authors: Bhanvase B. A. , Kadam V. B. , Rode T. D. , Jadhao P. R.
Published: June 2015

The present work deals with the use of sonochemical and conventional mixing process for the preparation of calcium zinc molybdate (CZM) nanoparticles using calcium chloride and sodium zinc molybdate as a precursor material without addition of any emulsifying agent. This new process is useful to control the size and shape of the CZM nanoparticles. The formed product was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). The formation of CZM was confirmed through XRD, FTIR and elemental analysis. The pH and conductivity results show that sonochemical process takes less time compared to conventional process for the preparation of CZM nanoparticles. The use of sonochemical process during the preparation of CZM nanoparticles results in reduction of the size and nearly the cubic shape is obtained due to the improved solute transfer rate, rapid nucleation, and formation of a large number of nuclei in the presence of cavitation.
Workflow Complexities of Fit Criteria on Strategy Applications and Structure Adaptations
Authors: Hammah Noriss Kweku , Ibrahim Rahinah
Published: June 2015

In studying the correlation between structure–strategy and workflow process, empirical research has shown that knowledge flow has an influence on professional team workflow performance. Using multiple sources of case study evidence, we propose a contingent model of a criteria fit in which the effect of structure on strategies is efficiency of Knowledge Applicability (KA) and effectiveness of Knowledge Adaptability (KA). A case study analysis of building permit approval processing by the Town and Country Planning Department (TCPD) and the various planning agencies in Ghana finds strong support for the model explaining that structure is the measurement attribute determining the efficiency and effectiveness of knowledge flow. A framework of four types of KA is outlined. These show that the viability of organisations is contingent on adaptations of efficient structure and applications of effective strategies. With an emphasis on two organisational environmental variables (uncertainty and equivocality) and structural configuration, we demonstrated the impact of formalisation and centralisation on knowledge flow and workflow process using Virtual Design Team Computational Organisational Theory (VDTCOT).
Parallel frame of non-lightlike curves in Minkowski space-time
Authors: Erdoğdu Melek
Published: June 2015

The main purpose of this paper is to investigate parallel frames of non-lightlike curves in Minkowski space-time. For this purpose, the relations between Frenet–Serret frame and parallel frame of a given non-lightlike curve are discussed in four different cases. Then, the curvature, first and second torsion functions κ(s), τ(s), σ(s) and principal curvature functions k1(s), k2(s), k3(s) are expressed in terms of the angles α, β and θ.
Busy Bees: Variation in Insect Flower-Visiting Rates across Multiple Plant Species
Authors: Couvillon Margaret J. , Walter Chandra M. , Blows Eluned M. , Czaczkes Tomer J. , Alton Karin L. , Ratnieks Francis L. W.
Published: June 2015

We quantified insect visitation rates by counting how many flowers/inflorescences were probed per unit time for five plant species (four native and one garden: California lilac, bramble, ragwort, wild marjoram, and ivy) growing in Sussex, United Kingdom, by following individual insects (n=2987) from nine functional groups (honey bees (Apis mellifera), bumble bees (Bombusspp.), hoverflies, flies, butterflies, beetles, wasps, non-Apidae bees, and moths). Additionally, we made a census of the insect diversity on the studied plant species. Overall we found that insect groups differed greatly in their rate of flower visits (P<2.2e-16), with bumble bees and honey bees visiting significantly more flowers per time (11.5 and 9.2 flowers/minute, resp.) than the other insect groups. Additionally, we report on a within-group difference in the non-Apidae bees, where the genusOsmia, which is often suggested as an alternative to honey bees as a managed pollinator, was very speedy (13.4 flowers/minute) compared to the other non-Apidae bees (4.3 flowers/minute). Our census showed that the plants attracted a range of insects, with the honey bee as the most abundant visitor (34%). Therefore, rate differences cannot be explained by particular specializations. Lastly, we discuss potential implications of our conclusions for pollination.
Explicit High Accuracy Maximum Resolution Dispersion Relation Preserving Schemes for Computational Aeroacoustics
Authors: Wang J. L. , Huang Q. B. , Liu Z. X. , Li K.
Published: June 2015

A set of explicit finite difference schemes with large stencil was optimized to obtain maximum resolution characteristics for various spatial truncation orders. The effect of integral interval range of the objective function on the optimized schemes’ performance is discussed. An algorithm is developed for the automatic determination of this integral interval. Three types of objective functions in the optimization procedure are compared in detail, which show that Tam’s objective function gets the best resolution in explicit centered finite difference scheme. Actual performances of the proposed optimized schemes are demonstrated by numerical simulation of three CAA benchmark problems. The effective accuracy, strengths, and weakness of these proposed schemes are then discussed. At the end, general conclusion on how to choose optimization objective function and optimization ranges is drawn. The results provide clear understanding of the relative effective accuracy of the various truncation orders, especially the trade-off when using large stencil with a relatively high truncation order.
Carotid Endarterectomy in a Patient with Posterior Cerebral Artery Infarction: Influence of Fetal Type PCA on Atypical Clinical Course
Authors: Kolukısa Mehmet , Gürsoy Azize Esra , Kocaman Gülşen , Dürüyen Hümeyra , Toprak Hüseyin , Asil Talip
Published: June 2015

Fetal type PCA may positively affect clinical outcome in patients with ischemic stroke such as protection of a reserve blood flow capacity as well as negative effect on clinical outcome such as certain atypical pathological manifestations. We presented a patient with a posterior cerebral artery territory infarction due to an unexpected etiology as stenosis of internal carotid artery (ICA) with existence of fetal type PCA.
Remaining Useful Lifetime Prognosis of Controlled Systems: A Case of Stochastically Deteriorating Actuator
Authors: Nguyen Danh Ngoc , Dieulle Laurence , Grall Antoine
Published: June 2015

This paper addresses the case of automatic controlled system which deteriorates during its operation because of components’ wear or deterioration. Depending on its specific closed-loop structure, the controlled system has the ability to compensate for disturbances affecting the actuators which can remain partially hidden. The deterioration modeling and the Remaining Useful Lifetime (RUL) estimation for such closed-loop dynamic system have not been addressed extensively. In this paper, we consider a controlled system with Proportional-Integral-Derivative controller. It is assumed that the actuator is subject to shocks that occur randomly in time. An integrated model is proposed to jointly describe the state of the controlled process and the actuator deterioration. Only the output of the controlled system is available to assess its health condition. By considering a Piecewise Deterministic Markov Process, the RUL of the system can be estimated by a two-step approach. In the first step referred as the “Diagnosis” step, the system state is estimated online from the available monitoring observations by using a particle filtering method. In the second step referred as the “Prognosis” step, the RUL is estimated as a conditional reliability by Monte Carlo simulation. To illustrate the approach, a simulated tank level control system is used.
Theoretical Expectation versus Practical Performance of Jackson’s Heuristic
Authors: Vakhania Nodari , Pérez Dante , Carballo Lester
Published: June 2015

A basic 2-approximation heuristic was suggested by Jackson in early 50s last century for scheduling jobs with release times and due dates to minimize the maximum job lateness. The theoretical worst-case bound of 2 helps a little in practice, when the solution quality is important. The quality of the solution delivered by Jackson’s heuristic is closely related to the maximum job processing timepmax  that occurs in a given problem instance and with the resultant interference with other jobs that such a long job may cause. We use the relationship ofpmaxwith the optimal objective value to obtain more accurate approximation ratio, which may drastically outperform the earlier known worst-case ratio of 2. This is proved, in practice, by our computational experiments.
Identifying Super-Spreader Nodes in Complex Networks
Authors: Fu Yu-Hsiang , Huang Chung-Yuan , Sun Chuen-Tsai
Published: June 2015

Identifying the most influential individuals spreading information or infectious diseases can assist or hinder information dissemination, product exposure, and contagious disease detection. Hub nodes, high betweenness nodes, high closeness nodes, and highk-shell nodes have been identified as good initial spreaders, but efforts to use node diversity within network structures to measure spreading ability are few. Here we describe a two-step framework that combines global diversity and local features to identify the most influential network nodes. Results from susceptible-infected-recovered epidemic simulations indicate that our proposed method performs well and stably in single initial spreader scenarios associated with various complex network datasets.
A Novel Strong Tracking Fault Prognosis Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Qi , Jiang Wei , Li Tian-Mei , Zheng Jian-Fei
Published: June 2015

Improving the ability to track abruptly changing states and resolving the degeneracy are two difficult problems to particle filter applied to fault prognosis. In this paper, a novel strong tracking fault prognosis algorithm is proposed to settle the above problems. In the proposed algorithm, the artificial immunity algorithm is first introduced to resolve the degeneracy problem, and then the strong tracking filter is introduced to enhance the ability to track abruptly changing states. The particles are updated by strong tracking filter, and better particles are selected by utilizing the artificial immune algorithm to estimate states. As a result, the degeneracy problem is resolved and the accuracy of the proposed fault prognosis algorithm is improved accordingly. The feasibility and validity of the proposed algorithm are demonstrated by the simulation results of the standard validation model and the DTS200 system.
Zoning Modulus Inversion Method for Concrete Dams Based on Chaos Genetic Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Gu Hao , Wu Zhongru , Huang Xiaofei , Song Jintao
Published: June 2015

For dams and rock foundations of ages, the actual mechanical parameters sometimes differed from the design and the experimental values. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out the inversion analysis on main physical and mechanical parameters of dams and rock foundations. However, only the integrated deformation modulus can be inversed by utilizing the conventional inversion method, and it does not meet the actual situation. Therefore, a new method is developed in this paper to inverse the actual initial zoning deformation modulus and to determine the inversion objective function for the actual zoning deformation modulus, based on the dam displacement measured data and finite element calculation results. Furthermore, based on the chaos genetic optimization algorithm, the inversion method for zoning deformation modulus of dam, dam foundation and, reservoir basin is proposed. Combined with the project case, the feasibility and validity of the proposed method are verified.
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring in Lean, Obese and Diabetic Children and Adolescents
Authors: Shikha Deep , Singla Montish , Walia Rachna , Potter Natia , Umpaichitra Vatcharapan , Mercado Arlene , Winer Nathaniel
Published: June 2015

Aim: To determine if children and adolescents who have obesity (Ob) or type 2 diabetes (T2DM) of relatively short duration have impaired cardiovascular function compared with lean subjects using 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure as a surrogate measure of evaluation. Methods: We enrolled 100 African-Caribbean subjects (45 males/55 females), mean ages 14.4-15.2 years (range 11.8-18.5 years) and Tanner stage 4.2-4.8. Mean BMI for the Ob (n = 40), T2DM (n = 39) and lean (n = 21) groups were 40.3, 34.2 and 20.8, respectively (p < 0.01, Ob and T2DM vs. lean). Mean hemoglobin A1c in lean and Ob was 5.4 and 5.5% compared to 8.8% in T2DM (p < 0.001, T2DM vs. lean and Ob). Ambulatory blood pressure was recorded every 20 min over 24 h using Spacelabs 70207. Results: Mean 24-hour, daytime and nighttime systolic blood pressure was significantly higher in Ob and T2DM compared with lean subjects (mean 24-hour 117 and 120 vs. 109 mm Hg; daytime 121 and 123 vs. 113 mm Hg; and nighttime 109 and 115 vs. 101 mm Hg; p < 0.01 for all time periods). The nocturnal systolic dip in Ob and T2DM did not differ from that of lean, whereas nocturnal diastolic dip decreased significantly in Ob and T2DM compared to lean (11.5 and 10.4 vs. 20.6 mm Hg; p < 0.01). Mean pulse pressure was significantly increased in the Ob and T2DM groups compared to lean subjects (51 and 54 vs. 45 mm Hg; p < 0.01). Conclusion: Adolescent Ob and T2DM groups share adverse risk factors, which may be harbingers of adult cardiovascular events.
Використання под­ріб­неного субстрату ліофілізованого ксенодермоімплантата для місцевого лікування опікових хворих з інфікованими ранами III–IV ступенів
Authors: Цимбалюк А. В. , Гуда Н. В. , Кирик О. О.
Published: June 2015

Проведено комплексне дослідження результатів використання подрібненого субстрату ліофілізованого ксенодермоімплантату для місцевого лікування інфікованих опікових ран ІІІ-ІУ ступенів. Застосування подрібненого субстрату ксеношкіри забезпечує очищення опікової рани, приводить до активної адсорбції токсинів з опікової рани та їх інактивації, стимулює крайову та острівцеву епітелізацію, що скорочує тривалість підготовки ран до автодермопластики (на 26 %), зменшує терміни стаціонарного лікування (на 17 %) порівняно з використанням на рани волого-висихаючих та мазевих пов’язок.
Про деякі технічні й тактичні аспекти виконання ендовенозної лазерної коагуляції
Authors: Гощинський В. Б. , Гаврилюк М. В. , Когут В. Г.
Published: June 2015

У 253 хворих проаналізовано результати виконання ендовенозної лазерної коагуляції. Результати аналізу свідчать про те, що вирішення окремих технічних та тактичних питань, зокрема щільності лазерного випромінювання, необхідність виконання кросектомії, ультразвукове дослідження вен у різних положеннях пацієнта для визначення показань до ендовенозної лазерної коагуляції дозволяють підвищити ефективність цього оперативного втручання.
ПОРІВНЯЛЬНИЙ АНАЛІЗ ОСНОВНИХ ПОКАЗНИКІВ ЗАХВОРЮВАНОСТІ НАСЕЛЕННЯ ТЕРНОПІЛЬСЬКОЇ ОБЛАСТІ
Authors: СМІРНОВА В.Л. , ПАНЧИШИН Н.Я. , ЛИТВИНОВА О.Н.
Published: June 2015

Мета: проаналізувати зміни в захворюваності населення Тернопільської області протягом 2009–2013 років.

Матеріали і методи. Спостереження здійснювалося як популяційне, епідеміологічне й охоплювало період з 2009 до 2013 року. Було проаналізовано статистичні довідники та статистичні дані щодо захворюваності населення області.

Результати. Встановлено, що загальний показник поширеності хвороб серед населення Тернопільської області формувався за рахунок хвороб системи кровообігу (32,7%), органів дихання (20,7%) та травлення (9,5%). Структуру первинної захворюваності формували хвороби органів дихання (45,4%), хвороби системи кровообігу (7,3%), хвороби шкіри та підшкірної клітковини (6,9%).

Висновки. Аналіз показників поширеності хвороб та первинної захворюваності протягом 2009–2013 років свідчить про негативні тенденції стану здоров’я населення. Відмічено зростання рівня поширеності хвороб протягом досліджуваного періоду та деяке зниження рівня первинної захворюваності.

КЛЮЧОВІ СЛОВА: захворюваність, поширеність хвороб, порівняльний аналіз.
ЛІКУВАННЯ ГЕМОДИНАМІЧНИХ ПОРУШЕНЬ ФЕТОПЛАЦЕНТАРНОГО КОМПЛЕКСУ,ЯКІ ВИНИКЛИ У ВАГІТНИХ ЖІНОК З АЛІМЕНТАРНОКО-НСТИТУЦІЙНИМ ОЖИРІННЯМ
Authors: Сафонов Р. А.
Published: June 2015

Проведено дослідження матково-плацентарної та плацентарно-плодової геодинаміки у 100 вагітних з аліментарно-конституціональним ожиріння (АКО). Показано, що включення інфузій інстенону й актовегіну та сеансів гіпербарично оксигенаці до схеми лікування плацентарних порушень дозволяє нормалізувати кровообіг в судинах ФПК та скоротити термін медикаментозної терапії, що сприятливо для стану як вагітної, так і плода.
ТІНКТОРІАЛЬНІ ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ХОРІОНА ЛЮДИНА НА ДОСУМІТНОМУ ЕТАПІ ЕМБРІОГЕНЕЗУ ПРИ КОНТРАСТУВАННІ ЗА МЕТОДОМ AB H&E
Authors: Барсуков М. П. , Брусіловський А. І. , Шаповалова О. Ю. , Юнсі Г. О. , Романенко Н. М. , Барсуков О. М.
Published: June 2015

Наведено дані із вивчення особливостей контрастування струтурних компонентів хоріона людини на досумітному етапі ембріонального розвитку за методом AB H&E, порівняно із забарвленням мікропрепаратів гематоксиліном і еозином в традиційній послідовності і амідо-чорним 10В. Показано, що метод AB H&E є специфічним для ідентифікації сполучень, що містять амфотерні білки, які у великій кількості присутні у трофобласті хоріона людини вже на 17 добу ембріогенезу
ОБҐРУНТУВАННЯ ВПЛИВУ ЗУБНИХ ЕЛІКСИРІВ НА ОСНОВІ БІОФЛАВОНО ДІВ ЦИТРУСОВИХ НА СТАН АНТИОКСИДАНТНО-ПРООКСИДАНТНИХ СИСТЕМ ЯСЕН І СИРОВАТКИ КРОВІ ЩУРІВ ПРИ ЕКСПЕРИМЕНТАЛЬНОМУ ПАРОДОНТИТІ
Authors: Двуліт І. П.
Published: June 2015

РЕЗЮМЕ. У досліді на 70 щурах з експериментальним перешеним пародонтитом вивчено вплив зубних еліксирів
на основі біофлавоно дів цитрусових (апельсин, мандарин, грейпфрут) на стан антиоксидантно-прооксидантно
системи в яснах і сироватці крові. Прооксидантну систему оцінювали за вмістом малонового діальдегіду (МДА),
антиоксидантну - за активністю каталази. Встановлено, що моделювання пародонтиту призводить до збільшення
вмісту МДА і зниження активності каталази. Використання еліксирів з цитрусовими нормалізує антиоксидантно-
прооксидантний стан.
КЛЮЧОВІ СЛОВА: пародонтит, перекиси ліпідів, антиоксидантна система, цитрусові, зубні еліксири.
ЗАСТОСУВАННЯ БЛОКАТОРІВ РЕЦЕПТОРІВ АНГІОТЕНЗИНУ II В ЛІКУВАННІ АРТЕРІАЛЬНО ГІПЕРТЕНЗІ
Authors: Мерецький В. М.
Published: June 2015

РЕЗЮМЕ. Артеріальна гіпертензія на сьогодні є провідною причиною серцево-судинних ускладнень (інфаркт, інсульт)
і, як наслідок, смертності пацієнтів. Зниження захворюваності та смертності від серцево-судинних ускладнень є
головною метою лікування пацієнтів, які страждають на підвищений артеріальний тиск. Перспективним є застосування
блокаторів рецепторів ангіотензину II - препаратів з плейотропними фармакологічними властивостями, які мають
багатокомпонентну антигіпертензивну ефективність, добру переносимість, різнопланову органопротекцію, є
безпечними, здатними покращити віддалений прогноз для хворих на артеріальну гіпертензію.
КЛЮЧОВІ СЛОВА: артеріальна гіпертензія, блокатори рецепторів ангіотензину II, азілсартана медоксоміл.