bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Educational Architecture: Evaluation of and Proposals for Energy Performance of the Building Envelope
Authors: A. Michael
Published: May 2017

Public educational buildings require a high level of indoor comfort conditions to be achieved for their users. The vast majority of educational buildings in Cyprus consist of typical typologies and construction characteristics. The designs show significant similarities, extensive standardization of building components and construction methods and a reliance on previously tested building models. The intent of this paper is to investigate the energy performance of a typical classroom, as well as to evaluate various methods for improving energy performance, based on construction interventions.
For the investigation of the energy performance of the case studies, a standard methodology for the calculation of the energy performance of buildings in Cyprus has been applied, based on the directive 2002/91/EC for the energy classification of buildings (software SBEMcy v3.3.d). The base model used for the investigation is examined according to the four orientations and the four climatic zones of Cyprus.
The analysis consists of a comparison of the energy consumption and carbon dioxide footprint of each building model to the respective energy- and environmental parameters of a reference building. Construction improvement strategies for the energy performance of the educational space (thermal insulation) and other construction interventions (buffer zones, solar spaces) are examined.
The results of the analysis for each construction or architectural intervention are then compared to allow for an evaluation of the respective contribution to the decrease in energy demands and carbon dioxide emissions, as to the typical classroom in its present state.
Analysis and Characterization of a Square-Wave Modulation Method for Single-Phase Cascaded H-Bridge Multilevel Inverters
Authors: João C. Faria  , António P. Martins
Published: May 2017

Cascaded multilevel inverters offer several advantages over other multilevel structures: modularity, high voltage capability, reliability. Additionally, a large number of cascaded inverters using a square wave modulation method allow low losses in the inverter and low harmonic distortion in the output voltage. This paper analyzes the main features of one of these modulation methods especially in what concerns to realtime implementation in a FPGA, output voltage distortion in single- and three-phase systems and modulation range in static and dynamic conditions. Also, scalability is addressed in order to evaluate the method’s capability to be used in high voltage applications. Simulation results with a different number of Hbridge inverters are presented and they allow obtaining the main conclusions; experimental results verify and support those conclusions.
Impact of Multiple Inverter Based Distributed Generation Units on Harmonic Resonance
Authors: A. F. A. Kadir  , A. Mohamed  , H. Shareef  , M.Z.C. Wanik
Published: May 2017

With the growing concerns over environmental impacts and rebate programs offered by governments, small renewable technology based distributed generation (DG) units are increasingly being used in commercial and domestic electric power production. However, a large number of DG units in a distribution system may sometimes contribute to high levels of harmonic distortion even though the emission level of individual DG units comply with the current harmonic standards. In addition, the incorporation of a passive filter within these DG units also has a negative effect due to the resonance phenomenon. Thus, this paper aims to analyse the impact of multiple inverter based DG units on resonance and harmonic distortion. Furthermore, the effect of simplifying DG model by bundling the realistic model of multiple and small DG units into a single unit were investigated. The analysis was performed for an inverter based DG system connected to the IEEE 13 bus distribution test system. To investigate resonance phenomenon, frequency scan was conducted while the fast Fourier transform analysis was carried out to measure the voltage and current distortion at the point of the common coupling and the DG connected buses. The test system was simulated using MATLAB/SimPowerSystems. The result shows that a simplified model of multiple DG units can be used as a DG model for harmonic distortion and resonance phenomenon study.
A practical model to obtain the energy produced by Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems (GCPVS) in different parts of the Spanish geography
Authors: Rafael M. Lamaison  , Javier Raventós
Published: May 2017

This paper presents a model explaining a way to obtain the energy produced by a Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems (GCPVS) in different parts of the Spanish geography. The GCPVS are one of the most important applications of solar photovoltaic energy. The model presented in this work, in addition to losses in system components (panels, inverter and wires), takes into account the effect of temperature losses and accumulated dust and dirt on the photovoltaic modules. To validate the model results have been presented and compared with the actual data of a photovoltaic plant located in TudelaSpain
PERAN PENGAWASAN MASYARAKAT TERHADAP PENGELOLAAN KEUANGAN DESA DALAM MEWUJUDKAN AKUNTABILITAS KEUANGAN DI DESA
Authors: Herli Mohammad , , Hafidhah
Published: May 2017

The community's active role in monitoring village financial management is still weak. Many cases of village misconduct by village administrations are caused by a lack of community control over village finances. There are several factors causing the lack of participation of villagers in the supervision of the lack of public communication space in the village so that people do not know how to conduct supervision of the village administration. Community supervision can be conducted directly or indirectly and the implementation of supervision can be done before, during, and after activity pelakasanaan. Monitoring prior to implementation is done through community involvement in village financial planning, supervision during activities can be undertaken by the community by monitoring the development and management of village finances by village governance, while supervision after the activities can be done by monitoring the results of the implementation of development in the village.  Keywords  : Supervision, Society, Finance, Village
PILIHAN STRATEGI PENGEMBANGAN WISATA GILI LABAK KECAMATAN TALANGO KABUPATEN SUMENEP
Authors: Arfiyanto Dedy , Andini Isnani Yuli
Published: May 2017

The presence of the Suramadu bridge has a direct impact on the economic side, this can be demonstrated by the increase in gross domestic income which increases from year to year. Efforts to maximize the potential of the region other than agriculture, plantation, and mining and marine industries, Pertingnya is to maximize the potential of the beauty of the natural panorama, the condition of the panorama of nature is quite a lot of scattered in various regions both inland and in the archipelago so far, still constrained by the existing infrastructure, the infrastructure is the lack of proper transport and safe to connect between the island, , Island water supply and other supporting facilities. The limited infarasturcure problem led to the development of island tourism only a planning document without realization.Data collected in this study include primary data and secondary data. The results of the study indicate a strategy is needed to increase the growth rate of tourist visits with faster time (second year is greater than the first year and beyond), quality improvement becomes the strength factor to maximize the utilization of all opportunities.               Keywords : Strategy, Tourism Development
Endoscopic-Guided Coblation Treatment of Nasal Telangiectasias in Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia: “How I do it”
Authors: Poetker David M.
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is an autosomal dominant disease that leads to frequent epistaxis. It can have a significant impact on quality of life. Many reports exist regarding various therapies to address the epistaxis.

Materials and Methods

We presented our technique for addressing the epistaxis associated with HHT.

Results

Patients are treated in the operating room while they are under general anesthesia. A local anesthetic is injected sublabially, and oxymetazoline is dripped into the nose. The coblation wand is used to treat the telangiectasias. Bevacizumab is then injected into the nasal cavity bilaterally.

Conclusion

The coblation wand, with or without adjunctive bevacizumab injection, is a technically feasible intervention for patients with HHT that all providers can perform.
Specific Immunoglobulin E and Immunoglobulin G4 toward Major Allergens of House-Dust Mite during Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy
Authors: Chen Jianjun , Zhou Yue , Wang Yanjun , Zheng Yiwu , Lai Xuxin , Westermann-Clark Emma , Cho Seong H. , Kong Weijia
Published: May 2017

Background

Specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) and sIgG4 to house-dust mite (HDM) major allergens during allergen immunotherapy (AIT) and their clinical relevance remain unclear.

Objective

To investigate the variation of sIgE and sIgG4 to HDM major allergens and the correlation with clinical responses during AIT in patients with allergic rhinitis.

Methods

Thirty-nine patients with HDM allergy were divided into the AIT group (taking immunotherapy) and the control group (medication only use). The AIT group was subdivided into negative clinical responses to AIT (nAIT) group and positive clinical responses to AIT (pAIT) group according to symptom relief and subjective evaluation. sIgE and sIgG4 to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dp) and Dermatophagoides farinae (Df), and their group 1 and group 2 major allergens (Dp1, Df1, Dp2, and Df2) were measured before AIT, at 6 months, and at 1 year after starting AIT.

Results

Dp2, Df, and Df2 sIgE values decreased significantly in the pAIT group versus the nAIT group after 1 year of AIT (median values of delta change were Dp2, -10.09 versus 5.89 kU/L, p = 0.001; median values of Df were —9.69 versus 17.54 kU/L, p = 0.004; median values of Df2 were -11.06 versus 20.08 kU/L, p = 0.013). There was a robust increase in the sIgG4 values to Dp, Df, and their major allergens in both the pAIT and the nAIT groups overall after 1 year of treatment.

Conclusion

Patients with a positive response to AIT showed a significant reduction of HDM group 2 sIgEs compared with those with a negative response to AIT, which indicated that a decrease in group 2 sIgEs could be a marker that reflected AIT clinical efficacy.
Oeuvre vs. Abstract Space: Appropriation of Gezi Park in Istanbul
Authors: Sadri Senem Zeybekoglu
Published: May 2017

The Gezi Park incidents of summer 2013 in Istanbul have marked a turning point in the political life and democracy in Turkey. The peaceful environmentalist protestations in central Gezi Park have turned into a countrywide upheaval against the neo-liberal and conservative policies of the government, pouring millions of people into streets in different cities. It was a time that Turkey witnessed the formation of a new type of public sphere that encompasses a variety of counter publics, and its spatial incarnation –the Gezi Commune-, reclaimed, created, shaped and inhabited by the free will of people. This was the instant creation of oeuvre through the appropriation of the urban space, and a spatial manifestation of reclaiming the right to the city. This article is a reflection on the possibility of creation of oeuvre in contemporary society, and a new way of architectural thinking and practice that can pave the way for it.
Gluteus Medius and Minimus Muscle Structure, Strength, and Function in Healthy Adults: Brief Report
Authors: Whiler Lisa , Fong Michael , Kim Seungjoo , Ly Anna , Qin Yuqian , Yeung Euson , Mathur Sunita
Published: May 2017

Purpose: This article describes gluteus medius and minimus muscle thickness and hip abductor strength and function in healthy adults and explores the relationships between muscle thickness and function. Methods: Gluteus medius and minimus muscle thickness (B-mode ultrasound), isometric hip abductor strength (Biodex dynamometer), and lower extremity function (timed Trendelenburg test, Five-Times-Sit-to-Stand Test [FTSST], and lateral step-down test) were measured in healthy adults using a cross-sectional study design. Results: A total of 22 subjects were included: 10 men and 12 women, mean age 25.2 (SD 3.1) years, mean BMI 22.9 (SD 3.5) kilograms per metre squared. Muscle thickness of the gluteals was a mean 3.88 (SD 0.13) centimetres, and mean hip abductor peak torque was 111 (SD 43) newton-metres. FTSST mean time was 5.3 (SD 0.2) seconds, and median scores were 2.0 points for lateral step-down and 90 seconds for timed Trendelenburg. No significant relationships were found between gluteal muscle thickness and functional tests (rs=−0.28 to 0.37, ps=0.09–0.80) or strength (r=−0.24, p=0.28). Conclusion: Although hip abductors are key pelvic stabilizers for functional movements, gluteal muscle thickness was not associated with strength or function. This may be a result of agonist muscle activity, leading to an inability to isolate the gluteals, and to the ceiling effects of the functional tests.
Large‐seeded Common Bean PRA152, PRA154, and PRA155 with High Levels of Broad‐Spectrum White Mold Resistance
Authors: Singh Shree P. , Schwartz Howard F. , Terán Henry , Centeno Carlos , Otto Kristen
Published: May 2017

Large‐seeded common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) breeding lines (BL) PRA152 (Reg. No. GP‐304, PI 680637), PRA154 (Reg. No. GP‐302, PI 680635), and PRA155 (Reg. No. GP‐303, PI 680636) were jointly developed at the University of Idaho, Kimberly Research and Extension Center and Colorado State University, Fort Collins. The three BL possess the highest levels of broad‐spectrum white mold resistance (mean disease scores ranging from 3.0 to 3.8) than in previously available large‐seeded common bean BL, germplasm accessions, and cultivars to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (causal agent of white mold disease) isolates ARS12D, ARS14D, ARS14M, ARS15T, CO467, ND710, and NY133. PRA152 was derived from Cornell 501/G 122//A 195/VCW 55, PRA154 was developed from VA 19/M0162//A 195/G 122, and PRA155 was selected from A 195/4/NY6020‐4/92BG‐7///M0162/I9365‐25//‘ICA Bunsi’/G 122 common bean populations. All BL have a determinate upright growth habit Type I. PRA152 has dark greenish gray–colored seeds with average weight of 45.6 g 100 seed−1. PRA154 has beige mottled seeds with 48.0 g 100 seed−1. Seeds of PRA155 are cream with black spots, with 26.9 g 100 seed−1. PRA154 matures in <100 d, and PRA152 and PRA155 require approximately 105 to 110 d from planting to harvest maturity in southern Idaho. White mold resistance from the three BL should be combined with other complementary sources of resistance to breed for yet higher levels and broader spectrum of resistance and/or introgressed into common bean cultivars of different market classes to combat white mold disease in the United States and elsewhere.
Clinical & Microbiological profile of Fourniers Gangrene in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangladesh : A prospective observational study
Authors: Maitra Tapash Kumar , Ekramullah Mahmud , Shabnam Nilufar , Roy Sharmistha , Mondol Samiran Kumar
Published: May 2017

Background: Fourniers gangrene is the necrotising fasciitis of the genitalia and perineum, with associated poly microbial infection. Evidence based data in the very recent years suggest that it is associated with significant and potential risk of organ failure or death.Aim: This study was designed to be conducted among the patients suffering from Fourniers gangrene with a view to assess the probable prevalence rate of potentially adverse clinical consequences during course of treatment, overall mortality and to observe the microbiological pattern in our surgical practice.Method & materials: This cross sectional study was conducted among the 69 patients of Fourniers gangrene in BIRDEM General Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh from Jan 10.2013 to Sept 01 .2016, using the purposive sampling method.Results: The results of this study reflects that majority (43.4%) of the study population were in 51 to 60 years age group( Mean age 43±1.7 years) in study population. By using the Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRINEC) score, it was found that in most of the patients (approx 56.5%), a suspicious score ranging 06-08 was observed and only in 10.1% patients, a specific score of ?08 was observed. In 27.5% patients systemic complications like DIC, ARDS, MODS, MSOF and severe sepsis were observed in 1.4%, 4.3%, 10.1%, 4.3% and 5.7% cases respectively. Mortality rate was approximately 4.3%. Majority (84.1%) of the patients were associated with type 1 (Polymicrobial) bacterial infection, whereas in case of 15.9% patients, it was associated with type 2 (Monomicrobial) infection. Escherichia coli was the most frequently observed micro-organisms associated with approximately 39.1% of all cases. S. aureus, Staphylococcus pyogenes, Enterococci species, E.coli and Pseudomonas species were recorded to be associated with 17.4%, 27.5%, 21.7%, 39.1 and 10.1% cases respectively.Conclusion: This study suggests that Fourniers gangrene is associated with significant systemic complications. Poly microbial infections are most predominant and E coli infection was commonest organism involved.Bangladesh Crit Care J March 2017; 5(1): 28-32
Hurdles in Management of Extra pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Ahasan HAM Nazmul , Bala Chandra Shekhar
Published: May 2017

Abstract not availableJ Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2016; 34(4): 182-183
Obstetrical Outcome of Grand Multipara
Authors: Khatun Jamila
Published: May 2017

Intruduction: Pregnancy in grand multipara has been considered as high risk because there are higher chance of complication during pregnancy, labour and puerperium.Objective: To evaluate various maternal and fetal complication associated with a grand multipara during pregnancy, delivery and puerperium.Methods: This prospective study was carried out from 1st January 2008 to 31st December 2008 in Obstetrics & Gynecology Department of Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College & Hospital, Sylhet. 300 grand multipara pregnant patients were selected those who got admitted in Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, SOMCH during that period.Result: It was found that incidence of grand multipara was 6.60%. Majority of the patient were between 3135 years old (43%). 66% patients never had anternal checkup, Caesarean section was high about 47%. Complications during labour were also high. It was about 51.67%. Maternal morbidity was about 16%. Perinatal mortality was about 11%.Conclusion: This study showed that grand multipara is a major risk for obstetrical outcome and needs strick supervision and good antenatal, intranatal and postnatal care.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2016; 34(4): 184-187
Management of Sepsis: Recent Advancement
Authors: Patwary Md Ismail , Bari Mohammad Zabed Jillul , Isha Ishrat Tahsin
Published: May 2017

Sepsis is a systemic, deleterious host response to infection leading to acute organ dysfunction secondary to documented or suspected infection and septic shock i.e. sepsis plus hypotension not reversed with fluid resuscitation. Severe sepsis is a major healthcare problem with an extremely high mortality rate of 30-60% and it is one of the most common reasons for critically ill patients to be admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). Excessive inflammation and coagulation and suppression of fibrinolysis are the hallmarks of Sepsis. Our medical concern is to manage sepsis and to prevent multi organ failure (MOF). Making an early, accurate diagnosis of septic shock is the key to increasing survival rates. With no specific, effective anti-sepsis therapies available, management focuses on haemodynamic stabilization and rapid resuscitation, early source control, adequate and appropriate antibiotics, organ support and modulation of the septic responses are the cornerstones of treatment.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2016; 34(4): 206-212
Transient Acute Myeloid Leukemia in a Newborn with Downs Syndrome
Authors: Haque Zabrul SM , Jahan Nasim , Raha Biplob Kumar , Hassan Mahmuda , Begum Mariam , Rob AWS , Yasmin Sabina , Hasnat SKA , Farhana Tasnim
Published: May 2017

We report the case of a newborn with Down's syndrome associated with transient acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The leukemic presentation resolved spontaneously without treatment just 4 weeks after birth. A 2 days old newborn presented with respiratory distress, lethargy, poor suck and mild hepatosplenomegaly with features of Down's syndrome. Total white cell count was 144,000/cmm with blasts 92%. Other Septic work up was negative. Peripheral blood smear revealed hyper leukocytosis and presence of blast cells. Flow cytometric analysis revealed acute myeloid leukemia. The peripheral blast cells persisted for 4 weeks, after which the hemogram and the differential WBC count returned to normal and a final diagnosis of transient acute myeloid leukemia was made. Only few cases of congenital leukemia with Down's syndrome have been reported in the literature. In Down's syndrome, AML whether transient or not, generally shows cytogenetic and molecular aspects that differ from those of adult acute leukemiasJ Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2016; 34(4): 213-217
Laparoscopic Management of Tubal Ectopic of Heterotopic Pregnancy
Authors: Saha Eti , Das Jharna , Moniruzzaman Mollik , Bachher Citta Ranjan
Published: May 2017

A heterotopic pregnancy is a rare complication of pregnancy in which both extra-uterine (ectopic pregnancy) and intrauterine pregnancy occur simultaneously. The prevalence of heterotopic pregnancy is estimated at 0.6- 2.5: 10,000 pregnancy. It is a challenge for obstetrician to manage the tubal pregnancy without interruption of intrauterine pregnancy. Here we describe a case who had left tubal alive ectopic pregnancy & also intrauterine alive pregnancy simultaneously after a natural conception. This patient was managed successfully with laparoscopic left salpingectomy, and intrauterine pregnancy has been continuing. There are some precautions during laparoscopic procedure & post operative period which can help for continuation of intrauterine pregnancy. In our clinical experience, this is an extreme rare disorder and we feel interest to report this case. A heterotopic pregnancy can result from a natural conception; it requires a high index of suspicious for early and timely diagnosis; a timely intervention can result in a successful outcome of the intrauterine fetus.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2016; 34(4): 218-221
From the desk of editor in Chief Vol.34(4)
Authors: Azad Khan Abul Kalam
Published: May 2017

Abstract not availableJ Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2016; 34(4): 243
Conscious and Non-Conscious Measures of Emotion: Do They Vary with Frequency of Pornography Use?
Authors: Kunaharan Sajeev , Halpin Sean , Sitharthan Thiagarajan , Bosshard Shannon , Walla Peter
Published: May 2017

Increased pornography use has been a feature of contemporary human society, with technological advances allowing for high speed internet and relative ease of access via a multitude of wireless devices. Does increased pornography exposure alter general emotion processing? Research in the area of pornography use is heavily reliant on conscious self-report measures. However, increasing knowledge indicates that attitudes and emotions are extensively processed on a non-conscious level prior to conscious appraisal. Hence, this exploratory study aimed to investigate whether frequency of pornography use has an impact on non-conscious and/or conscious emotion processes. Participants (N = 52) who reported viewing various amounts of pornography were presented with emotion inducing images. Brain Event-Related Potentials (ERPs) were recorded and Startle Reflex Modulation (SRM) was applied to determine non-conscious emotion processes. Explicit valence and arousal ratings for each image presented were also taken to determine conscious emotion effects. Conscious explicit ratings revealed significant differences with respect to “Erotic” and “Pleasant” valence (pleasantness) ratings depending on pornography use. SRM showed effects approaching significance and ERPs showed changes in frontal and parietal regions of the brain in relation to “Unpleasant” and “Violent” emotion picture categories, which did not correlate with differences seen in the explicit ratings. Findings suggest that increased pornography use appears to have an influence on the brain’s non-conscious responses to emotion-inducing stimuli which was not shown by explicit self-report.
A New Finite Element Formulation for Nonlinear Vibration Analysis of the Hard-Coating Cylindrical Shell
Authors: Zhang Yue , Sun Wei , Yang Jian
Published: May 2017

In this paper, a four-node composite cylindrical shell finite element model based on Love’s first approximation theory is proposed to solve the nonlinear vibration of the hard-coating cylindrical shell efficiently. The developed model may have great significance for vibration reduction of the cylindrical shell structures of the aero engine or aircraft. The influence of the strain dependence of the coating material on the complex stiffness matrix is considered in this model. Nonlinear iterative solution formulas with a unified iterative method are theoretically derived for solving the resonant frequency and response of the composite cylindrical shell. Then, a cylindrical shell coated with a thin layer of NiCoCrAlY + yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) is chosen to demonstrate the proposed formulation, and the rationality is validated by comparing with the finite element iteration method (FEIM). Results show that the developed finite element method is more efficient, and the hard-coating cylindrical shell has the characteristics of soft nonlinearity due to the strain dependence of the coating material.
Inverse Spin Galvanic Effect in the Presence of Impurity Spin-Orbit Scattering: A Diagrammatic Approach
Authors: Maleki Sheikhabadi Amin , Raimondi Roberto
Published: May 2017

Spin-charge interconversion is currently the focus of intensive experimental and theoretical research both for its intrinsic interest and for its potential exploitation in the realization of new spintronic functionalities. Spin-orbit coupling is one of the key microscopic mechanisms to couple charge currents and spin polarizations. The Rashba spin-orbit coupling in a two-dimensional electron gas has been shown to give rise to the inverse spin galvanic effect, i.e., the generation of a non-equilibrium spin polarization by a charge current. Whereas the Rashba model may be applied to the interpretation of experimental results in many cases, in general, in a given real physical system, spin-orbit coupling also occurs due to other mechanisms such as Dresselhaus bulk inversion asymmetry and scattering from impurities. In this work, we consider the inverse spin galvanic effect in the presence of Rashba, Dresselhaus and impurity spin-orbit scattering. We find that the size and form of the inverse spin galvanic effect is greatly modified by the presence of the various sources of spin-orbit coupling. Indeed, spin-orbit coupling affects the spin relaxation time by adding the Elliott–Yafet mechanism to the Dyakonov–Perel, and, furthermore, it changes the non-equilibrium value of the current-induced spin polarization by introducing a new spin generation torque. We use a diagrammatic Kubo formula approach to evaluate the spin polarization-charge current response function. We finally comment about the relevance of our results for the interpretation of experimental results.
Ultrafast Electron and Molecular Dynamics in Photoinduced and Electric-Field-Induced Neutral–Ionic Transitions
Authors: Morimoto Takeshi , Miyamoto Tatsuya , Okamoto Hiroshi
Published: May 2017

Mixed-stacked organic molecular compounds near the neutral–ionic phase boundary, represented by tetrathiafulvalene-p-chloranil (TTF-CA), show a unique phase transition from a paraelectric neutral (N) phase to a ferroelectric ionic (I) phase when subjected to decreasing temperature or applied pressure, which is called an NI transition. This NI transition can also be induced by photoirradiation, in which case it is known as a prototypical ‘photoinduced phase transition’. In this paper, we focus on the ultrafast electron and molecular dynamics in the transition between the N and I states induced by irradiation by a femtosecond laser pulse and a terahertz electric-field pulse in TTF-CA. In the first half of the paper, we review the photoinduced N-to-I transition in TTF-CA studied by femtosecond-pump-probe reflection spectroscopy. We show that in the early stage of the transition, collective charge transfers occur within 20 fs after the photoirradiation, and microscopic one-dimensional (1D) I domains are produced. These ultrafast I-domain formations are followed by molecular deformations and displacements, which play important roles in the stabilization of photogenerated I domains. In the photoinduced I-to-N transition, microscopic 1D N domains are also produced and stabilized by molecular deformations and displacements. However, the time characteristics of the photoinduced N-to-I and I-to-N transitions in the picosecond time domain are considerably different from each other. In the second half of this paper, we review two phenomena induced by a strong terahertz electric-field pulse in TTF-CA: the modulation of a ferroelectric polarization in the I phase and the generation of a large macroscopic polarization in the N phase.
On the Convergence and Law of Large Numbers for the Non-Euclidean Lp -Means
Authors: Livadiotis George
Published: May 2017

This paper describes and proves two important theorems that compose the Law of Large Numbers for the non-Euclidean L p -means, known to be true for the Euclidean L 2 -means: Let the L p -mean estimator, which constitutes the specific functional that estimates the L p -mean of N independent and identically distributed random variables; then, (i) the expectation value of the L p -mean estimator equals the mean of the distributions of the random variables; and (ii) the limit N → ∞ of the L p -mean estimator also equals the mean of the distributions.
Mathematical Modelling of Mooring Systems for Wave Energy Converters—A Review
Authors: Davidson Josh , Ringwood John
Published: May 2017

Mathematical analysis is an essential tool for the successful development and operation of wave energy converters (WECs). Mathematical models of moorings systems are therefore a requisite in the overall techno-economic design and operation of floating WECs. Mooring models (MMs) can be applied to a range of areas, such as WEC simulation, performance evaluation and optimisation, control design and implementation, extreme load calculation, mooring line fatigue life evaluation, mooring design, and array layout optimisation. The mathematical modelling of mooring systems is a venture from physics to numerics, and as such, there are a broad range of details to consider when applying MMs to WEC analysis. A large body of work exists on MMs, developed within other related ocean engineering fields, due to the common requirement of mooring floating bodies, such as vessels and offshore oil and gas platforms. This paper reviews the mathematical modelling of the mooring systems for WECs, detailing the relevant material developed in other offshore industries and presenting the published usage of MMs for WEC analysis.
Coordinated Control Strategy for a Hybrid Wind Farm with DFIG and PMSG under Symmetrical Grid Faults
Authors: Li Jiawei , Yao Jun , Zeng Xin , Liu Ruikuo , Xu Depeng , Wang Caisheng
Published: May 2017

This paper presents a coordinated control strategy for a hybrid wind farm with doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG)- and direct-driven permanent-magnet synchronous generator (PMSG)-based wind turbines under symmetrical grid faults. The proposed low-voltage ride-through (LVRT) strategy is based on a novel current allocation principle and is implemented for individual DFIG- or PMSG-based wind turbines. No communication equipment between different wind power generators is required. By monitoring the local voltages and active power outputs of the corresponding wind generators, the proposed control strategy can control the hybrid wind farm to provide the maximum reactive power to support the grid voltage during a symmetrical grid fault. As a result, the reduction in the active power output from the hybrid wind farm can be decreased, which also helps avoid generator over-speed issues and supply active power support for the power grid. In addition, the reactive current upper limits of DFIG- and PMSG-based sub-wind farms are investigated by considering different active power outputs and different grid voltage dip depths, and the feasible regions of the two types of sub-wind farms for meeting the LVRT requirements are further studied. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed coordinated LVRT control strategy for the hybrid wind farm is validated by simulation and experimental results.
Robustness Improvement of Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage System in Microgrids Using an Energy Shaping Passivity-Based Control Strategy
Authors: Hou Rui , Song Huihui , Nguyen Thai-Thanh , Qu Yanbin , Kim Hak-Man
Published: May 2017

Superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) systems, in which the proportional-integral (PI) method is usually used to control the SMESs, have been used in microgrids for improving the control performance. However, the robustness of PI-based SMES controllers may be unsatisfactory due to the high nonlinearity and coupling of the SMES system. In this study, the energy shaping passivity (ESP)-based control strategy, which is a novel nonlinear control based on the methodology of interconnection and damping assignment (IDA), is proposed for robustness improvement of SMES systems. A step-by-step design of the ESP-based method considering the robustness of SMES systems is presented. A comparative analysis of the performance between ESP-based and PI control strategies is shown. Simulation and experimental results prove that the ESP-based strategy achieves the stronger robustness toward the system parameter uncertainties than the conventional PI control. Besides, the use of ESP-based control method can reduce the eddy current losses of a SMES system due to the significant reduction of 2nd and 3rd harmonics of superconducting coil DC current.
An Elastic Charging Service Fee-Based Load Guiding Strategy for Fast Charging Stations
Authors: Su Shu , Zhao Hang , Zhang Hongzhi , Lin Xiangning
Published: May 2017

Compared with the traditional slow charging loads, random integration of large scale fast charging loads will exert more serious impacts on the security of power network operation. Besides, to maximize social benefits, effective scheduling strategies guiding fast charging behaviors should be formulated rather than simply increasing infrastructure construction investments on the power grid. This paper first analyzes the charging users’ various responses to an elastic charging service fee, and introduces the index of charging balance degree to a target region by considering the influence of fast charging loads on the power grid. Then, a multi-objective optimization model of the fast charging service fee is constructed, whose service fee can be further optimized by employing a fuzzy programming method. Therefore, both users’ satisfaction degree and the equilibrium of charging loads can be maintained simultaneously by reasonably guiding electric vehicles (EVs) to different fast charging stations. The simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed dynamic charging service pricing and the corresponding fast charging load guidance strategy.
A Single-Loop Repetitive Voltage Controller with an Active Damping Control Technique
Authors: Cho Younghoon , Byen Byeng-Joo , Lee Han-Sol , Cho Kwan-Yuhl
Published: May 2017

This paper proposes a single-loop repetitive voltage control strategy which incorporates the active damping control feature for single-phase uninterruptible power supply (UPS) applications. The proposed method reduces the effect of the LC resonant peak, which limits the control bandwidth and deteriorates the stability of the entire control loop by effectively increasing the damping component. Due to the increased stability margin, a repetitive controller working together with a proportional-resonant (PR) controller can be easily adopted. Moreover, the voltage error is minimized even under severe non-linear load conditions. It is confirmed that the proposed single-loop controller achieves excellent and stable voltage regulation performance by evaluating the entire loop-gain of the system and the output impedance. Both the simulation and the experimental results for a 1.5 kW UPS inverter show agree well with the analyses, and the excellence of the proposed method has been verified.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Hybrid Renewable Energy System Using an Enhanced Multi-Objective Evolutionary Algorithm
Authors: Ming Mengjun , Wang Rui , Zha Yabing , Zhang Tao
Published: May 2017

Due to the scarcity of conventional energy resources and the greenhouse effect, renewable energies have gained more attention. This paper proposes methods for multi-objective optimal design of hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) in both isolated-island and grid-connected modes. In each mode, the optimal design aims to find suitable configurations of photovoltaic (PV) panels, wind turbines, batteries and diesel generators in HRES such that the system cost and the fuel emission are minimized, and the system reliability/renewable ability (corresponding to different modes) is maximized. To effectively solve this multi-objective problem (MOP), the multi-objective evolutionary algorithm based on decomposition (MOEA/D) using localized penalty-based boundary intersection (LPBI) method is proposed. The algorithm denoted as MOEA/D-LPBI is demonstrated to outperform its competitors on the HRES model as well as a set of benchmarks. Moreover, it effectively obtains a good approximation of Pareto optimal HRES configurations. By further considering a decision maker’s preference, the most satisfied configuration of the HRES can be identified.
A Hierarchical Optimization Model for a Network of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Authors: Kong Cuiyu , Jovanovic Raka , Bayram Islam , Devetsikiotis Michael
Published: May 2017

Charging station location decisions are a critical element in mainstream adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). The consumer confidence in EVs can be boosted with the deployment of carefully-planned charging infrastructure that can fuel a fair number of trips. The charging station (CS) location problem is complex and differs considerably from the classical facility location literature, as the decision parameters are additionally linked to a relatively longer charging period, battery parameters, and available grid resources. In this study, we propose a three-layered system model of fast charging stations (FCSs). In the first layer, we solve the flow capturing location problem to identify the locations of the charging stations. In the second layer, we use a queuing model and introduce a resource allocation framework to optimally provision the limited grid resources. In the third layer, we consider the battery charging dynamics and develop a station policy to maximize the profit by setting maximum charging levels. The model is evaluated on the Arizona state highway system and North Dakota state network with a gravity data model, and on the City of Raleigh, North Carolina, using real traffic data. The results show that the proposed hierarchical model improves the system performance, as well as the quality of service (QoS), provided to the customers. The proposed model can efficiently assist city planners for CS location selection and system design.
Synthetic Receptors Induce Anti Angiogenic and Stress Signaling on Human First Trimester Cytotrophoblast Cells
Authors: Pantho Ahmed , Price Mason , Ashraf AHM , Wajid Umaima , Khansari Maryam , Jahan Afsana , Afroze Syeda , Rhaman Md , Johnson Corey , Kuehl Thomas , Hossain Md. , Uddin Mohammad
Published: May 2017

The cytotrophoblast (CTB) cells of the human placenta have membrane receptors that bind certain cardiotonic steroids (CTS) found in blood plasma. One of these, marinobufagenin, is a key factor in the etiology of preeclampsia. Herein, we used synthetic receptors (SR) to study their effectiveness on the angiogenic profile of human first trimester CTB cells. The humanextravillous CTB cells (Sw.71) used in this study were derived from first trimester chorionic villus tissue. Culture media of CTB cells treated with ≥1 nM SR level revealed sFlt-1 (Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1) was significantly increased while VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) was significantly decreased in the culture media (* p < 0.05 for each) The AT2 receptor (Angiotensin II receptor type 2) expression was significantly upregulated in ≥1 nM SR-treated CTB cells as compared to basal; however, the AT1 (Angiotensin II receptor, type 1) and VEGFR-1 (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1) receptor expression was significantly downregulated (* p < 0.05 for each). Our results show that the anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic effects of SR on CTB cells are similar to the effects of CTS. The observed anti angiogenic activity of SR on CTB cells demonstrates that the functionalized-urea/thiourea molecules may be useful as potent inhibitors to prevent CTS-induced impairment of CTB cells.
NGF and Its Receptors in the Regulation of Inflammatory Response
Authors: Minnone Gaetana , De Benedetti Fabrizio , Bracci-Laudiero Luisa
Published: May 2017

There is growing interest in the complex relationship between the nervous and immune systems and how its alteration can affect homeostasis and result in the development of inflammatory diseases. A key mediator in cross-talk between the two systems is nerve growth factor (NGF), which can influence both neuronal cell function and immune cell activity. The up-regulation of NGF described in inflamed tissues of many diseases can regulate innervation and neuronal activity of peripheral neurons, inducing the release of immune-active neuropeptides and neurotransmitters, but can also directly influence innate and adaptive immune responses. Expression of the NGF receptors tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) and p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) is dynamically regulated in immune cells, suggesting a varying requirement for NGF depending on their state of differentiation and functional activity. NGF has a variety of effects that can be either pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory. This apparent contradiction can be explained by considering NGF as part of an endogenous mechanism that, while activating immune responses, also activates pathways necessary to dampen the inflammatory response and limit tissue damage. Decreases in TrkA expression, such as that recently demonstrated in immune cells of arthritis patients, might prevent the activation by NGF of regulatory feed-back mechanisms, thus contributing to the development and maintenance of chronic inflammation.
An AAAG-Rich Oligodeoxynucleotide Rescues Mice from Bacterial Septic Peritonitis by Interfering Interferon Regulatory Factor 5
Authors: Gao Shuang , Li Xin , Nie Shu , Yang Lei , Tu Liqun , Dong Boqi , Zhao Peiyan , Wang Yangyang , Yu Yongli , Wang Liying , Hua Shucheng
Published: May 2017

A previous study found that an AAAG-rich Oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN), designated as MS19, could lessen the acute lung inflammatory injury (ALII) in mice infected by influenza viruses. Bioinformatics analysis found that MS19 is consensus with the binding site of interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5) in the regulatory elements of pro-inflammatory genes. This study established a septic peritonitis model in Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice infected with Escherichia coli (E. coli), and found that MS19 prolonged the survival of the mice and down-regulated the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α). In cultured RAW264.7 cells, MS19 significantly reduced the expression of iNOS, IRF5, IL-6, and TNF-α and inhibited the nuclear translocation of IRF5. This data may provide a new insight for understanding how MS19 reduces the excessive inflammatory responses in sepsis.
A New Variational Iteration Method for a Class of Fractional Convection-Diffusion Equations in Large Domains
Authors: Abolhasani Mohammad , Abbasbandy Saeid , Allahviranloo Tofigh
Published: May 2017

In this paper, we introduced a new generalization method to solve fractional convection–diffusion equations based on the well-known variational iteration method (VIM) improved by an auxiliary parameter. The suggested method was highly effective in controlling the convergence region of the approximate solution. By solving some fractional convection–diffusion equations with a propounded method and comparing it with standard VIM, it was concluded that complete reliability, efficiency, and accuracy of this method are guaranteed. Additionally, we studied and investigated the convergence of the proposed method, namely the VIM with an auxiliary parameter. We also offered the optimal choice of the auxiliary parameter in the proposed method. It was noticed that the approach could be applied to other models of physics.
Application of Soluplus to Improve the Flowability and Dissolution of Baicalein Phospholipid Complex
Authors: Fan Junting , Dai Yunhao , Shen Hongxue , Ju Jianming , Zhao Zhiying
Published: May 2017

In this study, a novel ternary complex system (TCS) composed of baicalein, phospholipids, and Soluplus was prepared to improve the flowability and dissolution for baicalein phospholipid complex (BPC). TCS was characterized using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), infrared spectroscopy (IR), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The flowability, solubility, oil–water partition coefficient, in vitro dissolution, and in vivo pharmacokinetics of the system were also evaluated. DSC, IR, PXRD, and SEM data confirmed that the crystal form of baicalein disappeared in BPC and TCS. Furthermore, the angle of repose of TCS of 35° indicated an improvement in flowability, and solubility increased by approximately eight-fold in distilled water when TCS was compared with BPC (41.00 ± 4.89 μg/mL vs. 5.00 ± 0.16 μg/mL). Approximately 91.24% of TCS was released at the end of 60 min in 0.5% SDS (pH = 6.8), which suggested that TCS could improve the dissolution velocity and extent. Moreover, TCS exhibited a considerable enhancement in bioavailability with higher peak plasma concentration (25.55 μg/mL vs. 6.05 μg/mL) and increased AUC0–∞ (62.47 μg·h/mL vs. 50.48 μg·h/mL) with 123.75% relative bioavailability compared with BPC. Thus, Soluplus achieved the purpose of improving the flowability and solubility of baicalein phospholipid complexes. The application of Soluplus to phospholipid complexes has great potential.
Sulfated Alginates as Heparin Analogues: A Review of Chemical and Functional Properties
Authors: Arlov Øystein , Skjåk-Bræk Gudmund
Published: May 2017

Heparin is widely recognized for its potent anticoagulating effects, but has an additional wide range of biological properties due to its high negative charge and heterogeneous molecular structure. This heterogeneity has been one of the factors in motivating the exploration of functional analogues with a more predictable modification pattern and monosaccharide sequence, that can aid in elucidating structure-function relationships and further be structurally customized to fine-tune physical and biological properties toward novel therapeutic applications and biomaterials. Alginates have been of great interest in biomedicine due to their inherent biocompatibility, gentle gelling conditions, and structural versatility from chemo-enzymatic engineering, but display limited interactions with cells and biomolecules that are characteristic of heparin and the other glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) of the extracellular environment. Here, we review the chemistry and physical and biological properties of sulfated alginates as structural and functional heparin analogues, and discuss how they may be utilized in applications where the use of heparin and other sulfated GAGs is challenging and limited.