bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of traumatic brain injury with subsequent neurological and psychiatric disease: a meta-analysis
Authors: Perry David C. , Sturm Virginia E. , Peterson Matthew J. , Pieper Carl F. , Bullock Thomas , Boeve Bradley F. , Miller Bruce L. , Guskiewicz Kevin M. , Berger Mitchel S. , Kramer Joel H. , Welsh-Bohmer Kathleen A.
Published: August 2015

OBJECT

Mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been proposed as a risk factor for the development of Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, depression, and other illnesses. This study’s objective was to determine the association of prior mild TBI with the subsequent diagnosis (that is, at least 1 year postinjury) of neurological or psychiatric disease.

METHODS

All studies from January 1995 to February 2012 reporting TBI as a risk factor for diagnoses of interest were identified by searching PubMed, study references, and review articles. Reviewers abstracted the data and assessed study designs and characteristics.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven studies met the inclusion criteria. A random effects meta-analysis revealed a significant association of prior TBI with subsequent neurological and psychiatric diagnoses. The pooled odds ratio (OR) for the development of any illness subsequent to prior TBI was 1.67 (95% CI 1.44–1.93, p < 0.0001). Prior TBI was independently associated with both neurological (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.31–1.83, p < 0.0001) and psychiatric (OR 2.00, 95% CI 1.50–2.66, p < 0.0001) outcomes. Analyses of individual diagnoses revealed higher odds of Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, mild cognitive impairment, depression, mixed affective disorders, and bipolar disorder in individuals with previous TBI as compared to those without TBI. This association was present when examining only studies of mild TBI and when considering the influence of study design and characteristics. Analysis of a subset of studies demonstrated no evidence that multiple TBIs were associated with higher odds of disease than a single TBI.

CONCLUSIONS

History of TBI, including mild TBI, is associated with the development of neurological and psychiatric illness. This finding indicates that either TBI is a risk factor for heterogeneous pathological processes or that TBI may contribute to a common pathological mechanism.
Concurrent spinal schwannoma and meningioma mimicking a single cervical dumbbell-shaped tumor: case report
Authors: Oichi Takeshi , Chikuda Hirotaka , Morikawa Teppei , Mori Harushi , Kitamura Daisuke , Higuchi Junya , Taniguchi Yuki , Matsubayashi Yoshitaka , Oshima Yasushi , Tanaka Sakae
Published: August 2015

Dumbbell-shaped tumors consisting of 2 different tumors are extremely rare. Herein, the authors present a case of concurrent spinal schwannoma and meningioma mimicking a single cervical dumbbell-shaped tumor. A 64-year-old man presented with a 5-year history of gradually exacerbating left occipital pain without clinical evidence of neurofibromatosis. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an extradural tumor along the left C-2 nerve root with a small intradural component. The tumor was approached via a C-1 hemilaminectomy. The intradural tumor was resected together with the extradural tumor after opening the dura mater. The intradural tumor was attached to the dura mater around the exit point of the C-2 nerve root. Intraoperative biopsy revealed that the extradural tumor was a schwannoma and that the intradural tumor was a meningioma. The dura mater adjacent to the tumor was then coagulated and resected. Postoperative pathological examination confirmed the same diagnoses with no evidence of continuity between the intra- and extradural components. The patient’s postoperative clinical course was uneventful. Clinicians should be aware that cervical dumbbell-shaped tumors can consist of 2 different tumors.
Sir John Cornforth Ac Cbe Frs: His Synthetic Work
Authors: Purchase Rupert , Hanson James R.
Published: August 2015

Sir John Cornforth's work on the synthesis of cholesterol and penicillamine, on the chemistry of oxazoles, the stereochemistry of the synthesis of alkenes, the synthesis of abscisic acid and of dibenzophospholes as mimics of enzyme action, is reviewed.
Sir John Cornforth Ac Cbe Frs: His Biosynthetic Work
Authors: Purchase Rupert , Hanson James R.
Published: August 2015

Sir John Cornforth's work on the stereochemistry of enzyme reactions involved in the biosynthesis of squalene and cholesterol and in the formation and metabolism of a chiral methyl group in acetyl co-enzyme A, is reviewed.
Prevalence of Overweight among the Adolescent School Girls in Dhaka City
Authors: Seoty Nuhad Raisa , Nahar Badrun
Published: August 2015

A cross-sectional study was carried out to investigate the prevalence of overweight among adolescent school girls in Dhaka City and examine the relationship of various socio-economic factors with overweight. A total of 130 girls aged 12 to 16 years of three girls high schools were selected by random sampling. Height and weight were measured to calculate body mass index (BMI). Dietary intake was estimated using 24 hour recall method. The usual pattern of food intake was examined using a 7 -day food frequency questionnaire. Prevalence of overweight was denoted by BMI above 85th percentile. In this study 33.1% of the participants were overweight and the rest were found to be normal. Participants were divided into two groups-normal weight participants with a BMI between 5th and 85th percentile and overweight participants with a BMI above 85th percentile of WHO/NCHS reference values. Mean intake of energy and all nutrients, except vitamin C were found significantly higher in overweight girls compared to normal weight girls. Overwhelming majority (95%) of the overweight girls consumed fast foods, soft drinks (44%) and fruit juice (21 %) more than 3 times/week. Consumption of these foods by overweight girls was significantly higher than that of normal weight girls. Significant positive relationship was found among overweight and monthly family income, educational level of the parents and consumption of fast-food, soft drinks, fruit juice and energy intake but inverse relationship was found between overweight and participant's family size.
Perceived Role of Dietary Fiber in Healthy Diet and its Intake Pattern among Educated Urban Population
Authors: Rahim Abu Torab MA , Choudhury Rumana
Published: August 2015

Dietary fiber (DF) is now considered as a part of healthful diet because it plays an important role in preventing many of organic diseases. A survey was conducted to evaluate the perceived role of DF in healthy diet and its intake level among educated urbanites of Dhaka city. For dietary information, a 24 hours recall method along with a 7 day food frequency questionnaire was used. The findings show that the respondents were aware of DF and were able to name fiber rich foods. They perceived that fruits and vegetables are the rich source of DF. But fiber consumption frequencies showed that majority of them do not take fruits and vegetables everyday. As a result DF intake of the respondents was found 7.87 g/day, far below the recommended level (25-35 g/day or 10 g/1000 Kcal). Thus the study revealed that though the health benefits of DF was perceived and recognized by our educated population but they do not practice it.
The NIH Extracellular RNA Communication Consortium
Authors: Ainsztein Alexandra M. , Brooks Philip J. , Dugan Vivien G. , Ganguly Aniruddha , Guo Max , Howcroft T. Kevin , Kelley Christine A. , Kuo Lillian S. , Labosky Patricia A. , Lenzi Rebecca , McKie George A. , Mohla Suresh , Procaccini Dena , Reilly Matthew , Satterlee John S. , Srinivas Pothur R. , Stansell Church Elizabeth , Sutherland Margaret , Tagle Danilo A. , Tucker Jessica M. , Venkatachalam Sundar
Published: August 2015

The Extracellular RNA (exRNA) Communication Consortium, funded as an initiative of the NIH Common Fund, represents a consortium of investigators assembled to address the critical issues in the exRNA research arena. The overarching goal is to generate a multi‐component community resource for sharing fundamental scientific discoveries, protocols, and innovative tools and technologies. The key initiatives include (a) generating a reference catalogue of exRNAs present in body fluids of normal healthy individuals that would facilitate disease diagnosis and therapies, (b) defining the fundamental principles of exRNA biogenesis, distribution, uptake, and function, as well as development of molecular tools, technologies, and imaging modalities to enable these studies, (c) identifying exRNA biomarkers of disease, (d) demonstrating clinical utility of exRNAs as therapeutic agents and developing scalable technologies required for these studies, and (e) developing a community resource, the exRNA Atlas, to provide the scientific community access to exRNA data, standardized exRNA protocols, and other useful tools and technologies generated by funded investigators.
Extracellular RNAs: development as biomarkers of human disease
Authors: Quinn Joseph F. , Patel Tushar , Wong David , Das Saumya , Freedman Jane E. , Laurent Louise C. , Carter Bob S. , Hochberg Fred , Keuren‐Jensen Kendall Van , Huentelman Matt , Spetzler Robert , S. Kalani M. Yashar , Arango Jorge , Adelson P. David , Weiner Howard L. , Gandhi Roopali , Goilav Beatrice , Putterman Chaim , Saugstad Julie A.
Published: August 2015

Ten ongoing studies designed to test the possibility that extracellular RNAs may serve as biomarkers in human disease are described. These studies, funded by the NIH Common Fund Extracellular RNA Communication Program, examine diverse extracellular body fluids, including plasma, serum, urine and cerebrospinal fluid. The disorders studied include hepatic and gastric cancer, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, neurodegenerative disease, brain tumours, intracranial haemorrhage, multiple sclerosis and placental disorders. Progress to date and the plans for future studies are outlined.
A mixed-methods exploration of an environment for learning computer programming
Authors: Mather Richard
Published: August 2015

A mixed-methods approach is evaluated for exploring collaborative behaviour, acceptance and progress surrounding an interactive technology for learning computer programming. A review of literature reveals a compelling case for using mixed-methods approaches when evaluating technology-enhanced-learning environments. Here, ethnographic approaches used for the requirements engineering of computing systems are combined with questionnaire-based feedback and skill tests. These are applied to the ‘Ceebot’ animated 3D learning environment. Video analysis with workplace observation allowed detailed inspection of problem solving and tacit behaviours. Questionnaires and knowledge tests provided broad sample coverage with insights into subject understanding and overall response to the learning environment. Although relatively low scores in programming tests seemingly contradicted the perception that Ceebot had enhanced understanding of programming, this perception was nevertheless found to be correlated with greater test performance. Video analysis corroborated findings that the learning environment and Ceebot animations were engaging and encouraged constructive collaborative behaviours. Ethnographic observations clearly captured Ceebot’s value in providing visual cues for problem-solving discussions and for progress through sharing discoveries. Notably, performance in tests was most highly correlated with greater programming practice (p≤0.01). It was apparent that although students had appropriated technology for collaborative working and benefitted from visual and tacit cues provided by Ceebot, they had not necessarily deeply learned the lessons intended. The key value of the ‘mixed-methods’ approach was that ethnographic observations captured the authenticity of learning behaviours, and thereby strengthened confidence in the interpretation of questionnaire and test findings.Keywords: evaluation; mixed methods; video analysis; computer programming(Published: 28 August 2015)Responsible Editor: Meg O’Reilly, Southern Cross University, Australia.Citation: Research in Learning Technology 2015, 23: 27179 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/rlt.v23.27179
The enantioselective synthesis of (S)-(+)-mianserin and (S)-(+)-epinastine
Authors: Roszkowski Piotr , Maurin Jan K , Czarnocki Zbigniew
Published: August 2015

A simple enantioselective synthetic procedure for the preparation of mianserin and epinastine in optically pure form is described. The key step in the synthetic pathway is the asymmetric reduction of the cyclic imine using asymmetric transfer hydrogenation conditions.
Processes and Technological Systems for Freezing of Foodstuff
Authors: Stefanovskiy Vladimir
Published: August 2015

The principles and methods of holistic understanding of the foodstuff freezing process, as well as structure, functioning and development of refrigeration systems are set out in this chapter. It is meant for students, post-graduate students and experts working in the field of improvement of processes and devices of refrigerating productions. This chapter represents a great interest and for science officers as careful studying of the questions stated in it will relieve them of failures and repetition of the errors which were taking place in Russia, and will help them to choose ways for effective research work in the field of conservation of foodstuff by freezing.
Advances in Refrigerated and Controlled Atmosphere Storage of Fruits and Vegetables
Authors: Deuchande Teresa , Carvalho Susana M.P. , Larrigaudière Christian , Vasconcelos Marta W.
Published: August 2015

Long term storage of a variety of crops as well as long-distance transport, has allowed meeting the consumers' expectations in the supply of many types of fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the year. This is only possible with the use of several postharvest technologies. This chapter starts with a brief historical context followed by an overview of the technologies used for fruits and vegetables storage, including refrigerated and controlled atmosphere (CA) storage as well as the most recently developed technologies for storing these produces. We also address the innovation requirements in the refrigeration systems when integrating cold storage with CA, including the need for higher refrigeration capacity, use of air tight storage chambers, CO2 scrubbers and atmosphere generators. The effects of these methodologies on fruit physiology and quality during storage are further discussed. Finally, the current recommendations for long term storage using ‘Rocha' pear as a case study are presented.
Aerodynamic Isolation of Open Refrigerated Vertical Display Cases using Air Curtains
Authors: Amin Mazyar , Dabiri Dana , Navaz Homayun K
Published: August 2015

This chapter presents an experimental study on the effects of some of the most important variables that affect the infiltration rate in open refrigerated vertical display cases at steady operation. The variables were defined in dimensionless forms and were categorized in two groups. The goal was to examine the cross-effects of the first group (primary variables) by performing tests on the permutation of the variables, and to obtain some correction functions that contain the effects of the (secondary) variables thought to have smaller impact on infiltration. Tracer gas method, a new means to measure infiltration rate, is described and compared with other conventional methods. Most variables showed noticeable impacts on infiltration either linearly or non-linearly, some of whom did not show very well-defined patterns with infiltration, which indicates there are significant cross-effects among the variables. Others such as temperature difference and relative humidity showed no or negligible effects on infiltration.
Experimental Analysis to Optimize the Performance of Air Curtains and Heat Exchangers
Authors: do Nascimento Samuel Mariano , Heidinger Gustavo Galdi , Gaspar Pedro Dinis , Silva Pedro Dinho
Published: August 2015

This chapter reports an overview about experimental studies concerning the thermal performance of air curtains and heat exchangers installed in vertical open refrigerated display cases. The air curtain analysis shows the influence on the thermal performance by varying the width of the discharge air grille and the perforation density of the back panel by a mathematical model. The variation on the perforation density of the back panel and the width of discharge air grille alter significantly the thermal entrainment factor and the energy consumption of the equipment. Focusing the influence of environmental conditions on the performance of the heat exchanger, a second mathematical model was developed to evaluate the total heat load, its partial components and the condensate water mass. This analysis provides valuable information to the design of the air curtain and heat exchanger based on in-store environmental conditions and airflow efficiency.
Implementation of Thermal and Energy Improvements in Domestic Refrigeration
Authors: Belman Juan Manuel , Gallegos Armando
Published: August 2015

This chapter concisely discusses two case studies experiences on domestic refrigeration. One of the cases involves the theoretical and experimental analysis of the thermal profile in the compartments of a refrigerator, all this under the modeling and simulation through CFD, thus obtaining interesting results in terms of energy consumption. The second case is focus on the thermal and energy evaluation of new material proposed as thermal insulator, which was developed in a conventional way in the laboratory and presents convenient thermal features. Therefore, the guidelines for this chapter are aimed at finding mechanism that streamline the domestic refrigeration systems, without modifying its cooling performance.
Development of Heat Pump System Using Thermobank and Ejector for Heating Room and Cold Storage
Authors: Oh Jong-Taek , Ngoc Cuong Ne
Published: August 2015

In this study, heat pump system has been developed by CFD simulation and experimental investigation. It studies the thermal behavior of a thermobank and COP on heat pump system and cold storage. The thermobank stores the wasted heat of during refrigeration cycles and its energy is used for defrosting process and heating room. It also reduces defrosting time and condensation load so that the temperature regulation in the cold storage is constant. The system is investigated experimentally and CFD simulated under thermobank. The dimension L×W×H of cold storage is 3×1,6×1,4 m, thermobank is 600×300×400mm. The temperature of ambient on CFD simulation process is 150C.This heat pump system can be used to keep preservation of agricultural products in cold storage warehouse together with floor panel heating for room in winter. The ejector is used in system which the purpose increases in coefficient of performance (COP) and decrease in compressor displacement. As the calculated results, its COP is increased about 38% when using thermobank and ejector in heat pump system.
Optimization of Natural Gas Liquefaction Process
Authors: Khan Mohd Shariq , Lee Moonyong
Published: August 2015

This chapter provides a brief review of the developments in the optimization of Natural gas (NG) liquefaction techniques since 2001. NG liquefaction is energy intensive and small improvements in liquefaction efficiency brings huge cost benefits thus optimization is needed. To tackle the NG liquefaction optimization problem, two different optimization philosophies, i) deterministic and ii) stochastic, have been adopted. The limitations of the deterministic approach have paved the way for derivative-free stochastic approaches. Although both techniques work well for the reported problem, their application is limited to the specific problems and generalization is quite difficult. Therefore to overcome this problem, a third of the so called knowledge-inspired class have been evolved for NG liquefaction optimization. Thus, this chapter covers the major development that took place in NG liquefaction area and after reviewing the trends future research directions are given.
Use of Hydrogen and Fuel Cells for Refrigerated Transport
Authors: Garde Raquel , Casado Sindia , Jimenez Fernando , Garcia-Naveda Gabriel , Aguado Monica
Published: August 2015

Benchmark refrigeration systems in the road transportation sector are powered by diesel, having operation costs of up to 6,000 €/y with the consequent increase of the goods cost. This chapter presents an alternative refrigeration system based on fuel cells (FC) and hydrogen as fuel, with higher efficiency, reduced costs and independent of diesel price fluctuations. Examples of the energy load profiles impact on the FC sizing, H2 consumption and system autonomy are presented as well as a description of the FC model and performance simulation results. The economical feasibility of this new refrigeration system linked to renewable energies is also analyzed and an economical assessment for different scenarios is presented.
Electronic Word-of-Mouth
Authors: Hassan Azizul
Published: August 2015

From technology focused conceptual perspectives, the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) as a theory of technology acceptance postulates four identified constructs as: performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions (Venkatesh, Morris, Davis, & Davis, 2003). This study concentrates on digital storytelling as a form of eWOM for tourism promotion within the UTAUT capacities in selected ‘developing' tourism market perspectives. Results outline that in almost every aspects and contexts, appropriate technology application is supportive for tourism promotion where institutionalisation of market structures is relatively weaker.
Network Text Analysis and Sentiment Analysis
Authors: Ravaglia Veronica , Zanazzi Luca , Mazzoni Elvis
Published: August 2015

Through Social Media, like social networking sites, wikis, web forums or blogs, people can debate and influence each other. Due to this reason, the analysis of online conversations has been recognized to be relevant to organizations. In the chapter we introduce two strategic tools to monitor and analyze online conversations, Sentiment Text Analysis (STA) and Network Text Analysis (NTA). Finally, we propose one empirical example in which these tools are integrated to analyze Word-of-Mouth regarding products and services in the Digital Marketplace.
An Application of Text Mining to Capture and Analyze eWOM
Authors: Dirsehan Taşkın
Published: August 2015

Marketing concept has progressed through different phases of evolution in the past. At the moment, customer relationship management is considered as the last era of marketing development. The main purpose of this approach is to build long-term oriented profitable relationships with customers. So, companies should know better their customers. This knowledge can be created through a deeper analysis of companies' data with data mining tools. Companies which are able to use data mining tools will gain strong competitive advantages for their strategic decisions. Hotel industry is selected in this study, since it provides a warehouse of customer comments from which precious knowledge can be obtained if text mining as a data mining tool is used appropriately. Thus, this study attempts to explain the stages of text mining with the use of Rapidminer. As a result, different approaches according to the customer satisfaction/dissatisfaction are discussed to build competitive advantages.
Investigating impact of Electronic Word of Mouth on Consumer Purchase Intention
Authors: Goswami Shubham
Published: August 2015

The domination of Word of mouth (WOM) has been applauded for many years as key influence on consumer purchases. Associating WOM with the internet usually called electronic-WOM (e-WOM) makes transmission of messages much easier, wider and faster. As e-WOM is not restricted to strong social tie groups thus the message itself plays a critical role in building purchase intention. The present study, first attempts to investigate messages efficacy on identified constructs. The study recognized credibility of message as a sole component that could moderate the discord between level of involvement and expected intention for online purchase.
E-WOM Issues and Challenges
Authors: Jain Dhiraj , Sharma Yuvraj
Published: August 2015

In the global era, Electronic Word of Mouth (E-WOM) has become an important emerging business strategy in the marketing and consumer environment. Along with the growth of digital connectivity and E-WOM, new ongoing challenges have also emerged for online users, businesses, and services. The chapter mainly aims to look closer upon how Electronic Word of Mouth faced challenges related to social, personal, psychological and human appeal in FMCG sector which influence customers as well as firms. The study used survey method to approach the respondents. The primary data was collected from 250 respondents and descriptive statistics and F-test ANOVA were used to test the significant of the association / non-association between variables. It was found that mostly customers have positive attitude towards E-WOM phenomenon. The study could help the FMCG Company in taking such steps that could make improvements in their business processes and expand their business without spending lot of money.
Impact of Online Reviews on Purchasing Decisions
Authors: Jain Dhiraj , Bhansali Lovish , Nair K. Sanal
Published: August 2015

Internet has enabled today's consumer to transform himself from passive to an active and an informed consumer who can share his experiences, opinions about product or services with an infinite number of consumers around the globe. These reviews or opinions are further used by potential buyers of that particular product or service via electronic Word of Mouth (e-WOM). The study on the impact of e-WOM on online sales has gradually emerged but a number of questions still remain unanswered. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of one type of e-WOM i.e., the online consumer reviews, on purchasing decisions of electronic products. This empirical study also focuses on the relationship between reviews and purchasing behaviour. An instrument was prepared to measure the proposed constructs, with questionnaire items taken from prior studies but adapted to fit the context of e-commerce. The survey was applied to academicians in India through internet. The results show that consumer reviews have a causal impact on consumer purchasing behaviour and they have an effect on choosing the products by consumer. Finally, the results and their implications are discussed.
Extended Clinical Discourse Representation Structure for Controlled Natural Language Clinical Decision Support Systems
Authors: Mendes David José Murteira , Rodrigues Irene Pimenta , Baeta Carlos F , Solano-Rodriguez Carlos
Published: August 2015

To support an end to end Question and Answering system to help the clinical practitioners in a cardiovascular healthcare environment, an extended discourse representation structure CIDERS is introduced. This extension of the well-known DRT (Discourse Representation Theory) structures, go beyond single text representation extending them to embrace the general clinical history of a given patient. Introduced is a proposed and developed ontology framework, Ontology for General Clinical Practice, enhancing the currently available state-of-the-art ontologies for medical science and for the cardiovascular specialty, It's shown the scientific and philosophical reasons of its present dual structure with a deeply expressive (SHOIN) terminological base (TBox) and a highly computable (EL++) assertions knowledge base (ABox).
ISO 9001 2008 & CEN/TS 15224 2005
Authors: Mourtzikou Antonia , Stamouli Marilena , Athanasiadi Elena , Marasidi Evaggelia
Published: August 2015

The need to implement a Quality Management System in health sector arises from the rising interest for quality in health services by patients, health personnel and society. ISO 9001:2008 and CEN/TS 15224: 2005 apply to health services and emphasize on quality. Their basic principles are customer focus, leadership, involvement of all stakeholders, task-based approach, cooperation of all sectors for quality through information, mutually beneficial relationship with suppliers, continuous improvement, and European harmonization. The implementation of quality management systems in health services is complex due to special characteristics. Moreover, human resources include many different specialties and management/support staff, dedicated and essential to effective health system functioning. Continuing medical education and Continuing Professional Development are important components of professional development and competence, enabling continuous ongoing instruction of knowledge and skills for health professionals. Their outcomes and effects must always be measured and evaluated.
Experimental and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Study of Glazed Three Dimensional PV/T Solar Panel with Air Cooling
Authors: Senthil Kumar R. , Puja Priyadharshini N. , Natarajan Elumalai
Published: August 2015

The thermal performances of photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) flat plate panel were determined under 500–1000 W/m2 solar radiation levels. In the present work, fluid flow analysis and temperature distribution on solar panel has been carried out by experimental method and computational fluid dynamic (CFD) technique. The experiments have been carried out on clear days during the month April 2014. The geometric model for CFD analysis is generated using Solidworks. Mesh generation is accomplished by ANSYS Meshing Software. Physics setup, computation and post processing are accomplished by ANSYS FLUENT. The experimentally measured temperatures are compared to the temperatures determined by the CFD model and found to be in good agreement. It is also found that the difference between the experimental and CFD simulated outlet temperature differ only by less than 3.5°C.
Heat and Fluid Flow Characteristics of Copper Metal Foam as Heat Pipe Wick Material
Authors: Somasundaram D. , Mani Annamalai , Muthuswamy Kamaraj
Published: August 2015

This work is carried out to study the copper metal foam as porous wick structure in a flat heat pipe. The method of fabricating copper foam has been described. The characterization of copper foam has been carried out by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-Ray Diffractogram (XRD) analysis. Effect of liquid velocity on pressure drop and maximum capillary heat transport of fabricated copper foam has been presented.
Solid Waste Management of Fishery and Shrimp
Authors: Kumari Suneeta , Rath Pradip , Sri Hari Kumar Annamareddy
Published: August 2015

Solid waste management is one of the important areas focused by several researchers as it reduces environmental degradation, and offers useful or value added products. Fishery waste is significantly available in coastal areas and food processing industries which are a threat to the environment. Reuse or recycling is a better option to reduce the disposal of fishery waste. In this study, two different fishery wastes were investigated for their use for waste water treatment application. Chitosan was prepared from fishery and shrimp wastes by alkaline N-deacetylation process. Further Chitosan was characterised by the Fourier transform infra red analyser (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Viscosity-molecular weight. The FTIR results showed a more detailed structure of α-chitin in the region of O-H, N-H and CO stretching region. The FTIR spectrum was used to determine the chitosan degree of acetylation (DA).
Methods for Improving Lift Force of Wind Turbine Aerofoil Blades during Low Wind Speed Conditions – A Review
Authors: Febi Ponwin S.P.R. , Rajkumar S.
Published: August 2015

Wind energy is one of the promising renewable energy resources. The challenges in utilizing the renewable energy sources are making them reliable with good efficiency. Wind turbine plays a major role in industrial power supply during heavy wind conditions. However, in domestic applications, the small scale wind turbine has major issue of low starting torque due to low wind speed near the ground surface. These conditions make the air motion as laminar flow with the Reynolds number less than 5x105. Hence, in some adverse condition there is a laminar flow separation which increases the drag and consequently reduces the lift force. This paper gives a comprehensive review on the investigations that are being carried out on low Reynolds number regime aerofoil and laminar separation bubble to enhance the lift force especially at low wind speed conditions.
Theoretical Performance Analysis of Solar Chimney Power Plant for Kota Region of Rajasthan, India
Authors: Akhtar Zainab , Rao K.V.S.
Published: August 2015

A solar chimney power plant (SCPP) sometimes also called 'solar updraft tower' is a part of the solar thermal group of indirect solar conversion technologies, utilizing a combination of solar air collector and central updraft tube or chimney to generate a solar induced convective flow which drives pressure staged turbines to generate electricity. In this paper the performance of a solar chimney power plant (SCPP) is evaluated if established in the Kota region of Rajasthan in India. Kota has high intensity of solar radiation with more than 270 sunny days in a year. To investigate the theoretical performance evaluation of the solar chimney power plant in Kota region, total energy generation and average power output for every ten minute interval has been calculated on the basis of solar radiation and temperature data provided by Centre for wind energy Technology (C-WET) available for the period from June 2011-May 2012 for every ten minute interval. Subsequently day wise and month wise calculations have been performed for energy generation and power output for the year June 2011 - May 2012. Further, annual average power output of SCPP is calculated at Kota for different sets of dimensions of SCPP and assuming different values of collector efficiency. Power produced at the plant established in Kota region is compared with power output estimated by J. Schlaich by their experience gained from prototype of SCPP in Manzanares, Spain. Land area required for solar chimney power plant if installed in Kota region of Rajasthan India is calculated for 200 MW capacity plant.
Numerical Investigations of Outward Solidification in Cylindrical PCM Storage Unit
Authors: Antony Aroul Raj V. , Hariharan C. , Velraj R. , Seeniraj R.V.
Published: August 2015

In the present work a transient numerical model is developed to investigate and predict the performance of a paraffin phase change material (PCM) in the annular portion of the cylindrical container during its solidification and melting processes. Enthalpy method of modeling is adopted and the discretised non-dimensional form of governing equations and boundary conditions are solved by implicit finite difference method by using MATLAB software. The temperature variation of PCM along two axes of the polar co-ordinates (r, z) and the time required for solidification are analyzed and presented. The effect of system variables on the performance of the Latent Heat Thermal Energy system ( LHTES) is studied. The model tested finds application in the concept of free cooling which is the process of storing the coldness of the night time ambient air in the LHTES in order to cool the building during the daytime by retrieving the stored cold energy.
The Effect of Cotton Cloths on the Performance of the Solar still
Authors: Sakthivel T.G. , Senthil Kumar S. , T V Arjunan
Published: August 2015

In this study the conventional still is modified with cotton cloth at the inner wall surfaces to improve the performance of the still. The main purpose of this experimental study is to make use of the heat available on the inner wall surfaces of a basin by using cotton cloths. Two single-slope solar stills with the same area of 1mx0.5m are fabricated and tested. The hourly amount of extracted distilled water, the various temperatures and the insolation were observed for one month period (April 2014). The results were performed by comparing with conventional solar still and cotton cloth still. The experimental results clearly shows that, by reducing transfer of heat from inner surfaces to the outer surfaces with the help of cotton cloth the modified still gives yield about 13.3% higher than the conventional still.
Colburn ‘j’ Factor and Fanning Friction Factor ‘f’ Correlations of Triangular Plain Fin Surface of a Compact Heat Exchanger Using CFD
Authors: Bala Sundar Rao Ramisetty , Ranganath G. , Ranganayakulu C.
Published: August 2015

This paper presents the heat transfer and friction coefficient correlations for triangular plain fin surfaces of plate fin compact heat exchanger. It will be prohibitively expensive and time consuming to fabricate heat exchanger cores and conduct experiments over reasonable ranges of all the geometric variables. In contrast, it is relatively easy and cost effective to carry out a parametric study through numerical simulation and derive acceptable correlations for use in industry. A numerical model has been developed for the triangular plain fin of plate fin heat exchanger. The CFD analysis is carried out using FLUENT 12.1, Colburn factor j and fanning friction factor f are calculated for different Reynolds numbers. These values are compared with the available literature data of j and f factors. The correlations have been expressed in terms of two separate equations over the low and high Re regions along with dimensionless geometric parameters.
Improving the Boiler Efficiency by Optimizing the Combustion Air
Authors: Pachaiyappan R. , Dasa Prakash J.
Published: August 2015

Air pre-heater and economizer are heat transfer surfaces in which air temperature and water temperature are raised by transferring heat from other media such as flue gas. Hot air is necessary for rapid combustion in the furnace and also for drying coal in milling plants. So an essential boiler accessory which serves this purpose is air pre-heater. The air pre-heater is not essential for operation of steam generator, but they are used where a study of cost indicates that money can be saved or efficient combustion can be obtained by their use. The decision for its adoption can be made when the financial advantages is weighed against the capital cost of heater. The efficiency of the boiler increases with the increase in the temperature of the combustion air used in the furnace. This is achieved by the increased temperature of the flue gas in the air preheater and economizer zone. This paper deals with the different ways to obtain the maximum heat from the flue gas travelling through the air preheater and the economizer zone to improve the boiler efficiency.
Optimization of Tool Wear Rate during Electro Discharge Machining of NiTi Alloys Using Taguchi Method
Authors: Jatti Vijaykumar S. , Singh T.P.
Published: August 2015

NiTi alloys are advance materials which possess superior properties such as pseudoelasticity, shape memory effect, high wear resistance, high corrosion resistance and high strength. NiTi alloys causes serious tool wear, hardening of the machined surface and poor surface finish. Electro discharge machining (EDM) is an unconventional machining process which demonstrates high capability to machine NiTi alloys. Present work emphasis on investigating the effect of EDM process parameters on the tool wear rate. Gap current, pulse on time and pulse off time were considered at three levels as input process parameters along with electrical conductivity of workpiece and tool electrode at two levels. Taguchi L36 (22 x 33) mixed orthogonal array was utilized to design the experimental plan. Based on the statistical analysis at 95% confidence level it was found that tool electrical conductivity, gap current and pulse on time are the most significant factors that influence the tool wear rate. At optimal setting of parameters the predicted value of tool wear rate obtained was 0.00811 mm3/min.
Performance Analysis of Thin Shell Bends under High Pressure and Temperature
Authors: Govindaraj P. , Senthilkumar Mouleeswaran
Published: August 2015

Around 70% of the cost in piping industry is spent in the pipe manufacturing with optimum design of pipes without defects. Research on design of pipes has gained importance from the last decade. There are numerous methods being developed to improve the efficiency of piping units considering various parameters. The pipe tends to flatten when they are forced to bend, this geometrical changes has a significant role in the acceptability criteria of pipes. It is necessary to bend pipes in order to transmit liquid or gas from one place to other place. In this work special attention is given to pipe bends because of high stress concentration due to various loading conditions. From several kinds of piping systems, process piping systems are chosen for analysis since pipes used here transport important and hazardous materials. Damage to such piping system can cause serious loss to economy and human lives. The geometrical imperfection associated with bending of pipes is ovality. This degree of ovality determines the acceptance of pipes. Thickening and thinning effects cause additional problems like large plastic deformation and loss of flexibility respectively. Hence estimation of the best degree of ovality is required. In this work effect of ovality is estimated by taking the internal fluid pressure and In plane bending moment into account.
Simulation of a Motorcycle Motion during Braking at Cornering Using MATLAB
Authors: Ganesh V. , Chidambaram S.P.
Published: August 2015

An automobile braking system has a crucial role for safety of the passenger and riding quality of the vehicle. The brakingforce mainly depends on the normal reaction on the wheel and the coefficientof adhesion between the tire and the road surface. Sometimes the motorcycle may be over braked (Braking force exceeds the traction capacity between tire and ground) that increases vehicle stopping distance due to wheel sliding. So a variable braking force (VBF) system is developed in whichthe effective brake disc radius is variedbased on the pillion load on the motorcycle, for varying the rear wheel braking force that develops between tire and road surface. Whenever amotorcycleis loaded, the normal reaction on the rear wheel is increased.Thus the amount of braking force required to halt the motorcycle withminimum stopping distance and stability of the motorcycle, is based on the pillion load on the motorcycle. Hencethe amount of braking forcedeveloped between the road surface and the tire is varied in the variable braking force system. In this work, a mathematical modeling is developed and analyzed using MATLAB when the rear brake is applied for a motorcycleduring cornering for conventional disc brake system and the variable braking force system. It is found that variable braking force system develops more amount of yaw rate and lateral displacement when it is compared with conventional disc brake.
A Fuzzy Inference System for Water Quality of Chunnambar River, Puducherry
Authors: Nirmala V. , Leelavathy K.R. , Sowndharya Sivapragasam , Bama Parthiban
Published: August 2015

A Fuzzy Inference System (FIS) is considered as an effective tool for solution of many complex engineering systems when ambiguity and uncertainty is associated with the systems. The water quality is an important issue of relevance in the context of present times. The proposed model is designed to predict Water Quality Index (WQI) for Chunnambar, Ariyankuppam, Puducherry Region, Southern India. A systematic investigation of the pollution level at Chunnambar from March 2013 to February 2014 was carried out. The untreated domestic wastes from various parts of the Ariyankuppam town are directly discharged into the river which leads to increased level of pollution. The present studies emphasis on the magnitude of pollution by monitoring key water quality parameters such as Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), pH and Temperature. FIS simplifies and speed up the computation of WQI as compared to the currently existing standards. In this paper, the proposed model is compared with Indian Water Quality Index (IWQI) and it is found that the designed model predicts accurately.
Theoretical Model for the Optimal Design of Surface Texturing on Piston Compression Ring
Authors: Prakash S. , Nagarajan G.
Published: August 2015

A Theoretical model was developed to study the potential use of surface texturing for reducing the friction between a piston ring and cylinder liner. The model can predict the load-carrying capacity and friction force of the piston compression ring from Reynolds equation. The investigation is carried out using different dimple depths as well as different dimple diameters. Micro-dimples on the piston ring were able to generate significant hydrodynamic support. Numerical results show that surface texturing can decrease the friction force and extend the load-carrying capacity. The optimum surface texturing parameters such as dimples depth and dimples diameter were found.
Energy Enhancement of Long Cylindrical Tubes with Grooves Subjected to Axial Impact
Authors: Nalla Mohamed M. , Yuvarajan P. , Umasankar M.
Published: August 2015

Long cylindrical tubes exhibit poor energy absorption due to Euler’s buckling mode when they are used to absorb impact energy. Circumferential grooves are introduced in the tube to force the plastic deformation which helps to control the buckling mode. Quasi-static and impact tests are performed and the load-displacement curves are studied. The results are also compared with the ones for the geometrically identical tubes. Non-linear finite element analyses are also carried out to simulate quasi-static and impact test conditions. The numerical predicted crushing force and fold formation are found to be in good agreement with the experimental results. The results revealed that grooves can stabilize the deformation behaviour and thus the proposed method could be a good candidate as a controllable energy absorption element.
A Review of Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Murali G. , Mayilsamy K. , Ali B.Mubarak
Published: August 2015

Thermal Energy Storage (TES) has become extremely important in the recent years since it balances the energy demand and improves the efficiency of the solar systems. It is important that the thermal energy storage systems have the necessary characteristics to improve the performance of the storage. Usage of Phase Change Materials (PCM) for energy storage provides a great benefit but, their low thermal conductivity becomes a major drawback. This can be compensated with the use of phase change material in an appropriate design for successful functioning of the system. This review article summarizes the recent designs of thermal energy storage systems containing Phase Change Material that have been adopted for efficient energy storage.
Optimum Welding Conditions for Dissimilar Spot Friction Joining of Aluminium - Interstitial Free Steel Joints
Authors: Archish R. , Lakshminarayanan A.K. , Annamalai V.E.
Published: August 2015

Design structures made of aluminium alloy and steel are useful to meet the needs of automotive industry such as light weight and higher strength. An effective joining technique to join light weight metals such as aluminium alloys with steel is required. Friction stir spot welding (FSSW) is relatively a new solid state process and it is a derivative of Friction Stir Welding. It creates a spot, lap joint weld without bulk melting. The FSSW parameters such as tool rotational speed, plunge depth, and dwell time plays a major role in determining the strength of the joints and need to be optimized to get quality joints. In this investigation, a central composite rotatable design with three factors and five levels was chosen to minimize the number of experimental conditions. Response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to optimize the FSSW parameters to attain maximum lap shear strength of the spot weld.