bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fog over Virtualized IoT: New Opportunity for Context-Aware Networked Applications and a Case Study
Authors: Vinueza Naranjo Paola G. , Pooranian Zahra , Shamshirband Shahaboddin , Abawajy Jemal
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we discuss the most significant application opportunities and outline the challenges in performing a real-time and energy-efficient management of the distributed resources available at mobile devices and Internet-to-Data Center. We also present an energy-efficient adaptive scheduler for Vehicular Fog Computing (VFC) that operates at the edge of a vehicular network, connected to the served Vehicular Clients (VCs) through an Infrastructure-to-Vehicular (I2V) over multiple Foglets (Fls). The scheduler optimizes the energy by leveraging the heterogeneity of Fls, where the Fl provider shapes the system workload by maximizing the task admission rate over data transfer and computation. The presented scheduling algorithm demonstrates that the resulting adaptive scheduler allows scalable and distributed implementation.
Characteristics of Refractive Errors in a Population of Adults in the Central Region of Poland
Authors: Nowak Michal S. , Jurowski Piotr , Grzybowski Andrzej , Smigielski Janusz
Published: November 2017

Background: To investigate the distribution of refractive errors and their characteristics in older adults. Methods: The study design was cross-sectional study. A total of 1107 men and women were interviewed and underwent detailed ophthalmic examinations, 998 subjects underwent refraction. Myopia was defined as spherical equivalent (SER) refraction ≤ −0.5 dioptres (D) and hyperopia was defined as SER ≥ +0.5 dioptres (D). Results: Among those who were refracted the distribution of myopia and hyperopia was 24.1% (95% CI 21.4–26.7) and 37.5% (95% CI 34.5–40.5), respectively. Myopia decreased from 28.7% in subjects aged 35-59 years to 19.3% in those aged 60 years or older and hyperopia increased from 21.8% at 35–59 years of age to 53.3% in subjects aged ≥60 years. Multiple regression analysis showed decreasing age (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96–1.00), female gender (OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.18–2.95) and presence of cataract (OR 2.40 , 95% CI 1.24–4.63) were independent risk factors associated with myopia. Conclusions: The distribution of refractive errors found in our study is similar to those reported in other Caucasian populations and differs from Asian populations. Myopia was positively associated with younger age, female gender and presence of cataract.
Almonds and Cardiovascular Health: A Review
Authors: Kalita Soumik , Khandelwal Shweta , Madan Jagmeet , Pandya Himanshu , Sesikeran B. , Krishnaswamy Kamala
Published: November 2017

Background: Several preventive strategies to reduce dyslipidaemia, have been suggested of which dietary modification features as an important one. Addition of almonds in our daily diets has been proposed to beneficially impact the lipid profile. This review critically examines the available evidence assessing the effect of almonds on dyslipidaemia in the South Asian (particularly Indian) context. Methods: An extensive review comprising of epidemiological studies, clinical trials, meta-analyses and systematic reviews was conducted from published literature from across the world. Studies examining the effect of almonds on different aspects of dyslipidaemia viz. high LDL-C, low HDL-C, triglyceridaemia, high total cholesterol levels have been included. Results: Dyslipidaemia is a major risk factor for coronary heart disease and strategies to manage dyslipidaemia have been shown to reduce the incidence of CVD. Although there are proven pharmacological therapies to help manage this condition, there are not many nutritional interventions which can impact dyslipidaemia. Almonds have been shown to reduce LDL-C which is a known risk factor for CHD, in several studies and the effect of almonds has been well documented in systematic reviews and meta-analysis of clinical trials. Conclusions: Addition of almonds in the diet has been shown to not only to reduce LDL-C levels, but also to maintain HDL-C levels. This review informs about the use of this simple nutritional strategy which may help manage known major risk factors for heart disease such as high LDL-C and low HDL-C levels especially in the context of South Asians.
Caring and Collaborating A case study on a complex patient under multiple teams
Authors: Engel Larissa J. , Ryan Mandy J.
Published: November 2017

This case study introduces Mr X, who was diagnosed with Tuberculosis (TB) in early 2016. Although the TB originated in his lungs it spread causing Miliary TB in his brain. The case study focuses on the nursing issues identified during the collaboration of different specialities and disciplines, while ensuring the patient’s and family’s needs are met.

This particular case was especially challenging for the authors due to cultural differences, difficulties with communication with both family, specialties and multidisciplinary team (MDT), and the challenges of each team involved to work together and giving differing information to all involved. Due to the rare diagnosis for this patient, this was not something we had come across before.

This case study was developed through information gained from nursing the patient directly, discussions with the surgical and medical teams involved, research articles, personal reflections, and viewing the patient’s clinical notes and scans.

Nursing considerations will be discussed throughout the case study including the obstacles in nursing a patient who required complex care with several different MDT.
Preparation of MoO3Thin Films by Spray Pyrolysis and its Gas Sensing Performance
Authors: Ahire D. V. , Shinde S. D. , Patil G. E. , Thakur K. K. , Gaikwad V. B. , Wagh V. G. , Jain G. H.
Published: November 2017

MoO3thin films have been prepared by a simple spray pyrolysis technique at substrate temperature 250°c. The structure and morphology of thin films are characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy and UV-vis spectroscopy. The gas sensing properties of MoO3thin film is studied at gas concentration 400 ppm and working temperature of 100–400 °c. It was found that the sensitivity depended on the working temperatures and also H2S gas concentration. The results show that the MoO3thin film can be used to fabricate high performance H2S gas sensors.
Modeling and Controller Design of Pneumatic Actuator System with Control Valve
Authors: Lai W.K. , Rahmat M.F. , Wahab N. Abdul
Published: November 2017

Pneumatic actuators offer several advantages over electromechanical and hydraulic actuators for positioning applications. Nonetheless, pneumatic actuators are subject to high friction forces, dead band and dead time, which make fast and accurate position control difficult to achieve. This research paper presents the process of controller identification, design, modeling and control for pneumatic actuator system. System Identification approach is used with the purpose to estimate the mathematical model of pneumatic actuator system and for controller design. Data collection of input and output signal of the system has been performed from experiment procedure. This data is used for estimate the model by selecting Auto-Regressive Exogenous (ARX) model as a model structure. The accepted model is based validation test namely as residual correlation, Akaike Final Prediction Error and best fit percentage. Different control schemes such as PID and LQR (Linear Quadratic Regulator) have been applied for controller design. PID controllers with Ziegler Nichols tuning are enabled to provide good performance in various systems. The effects of Tustin transformation, zero order hold and discrete model are tested in PID controller designed. The methodology for this paper combines off-line model based on analysis with on-line iteration. Different external loads are added in order to investigate the effectiveness to the designed controllers in real time system. The tracking performance of the closed loop system is satisfied which offers considerable robustness even on a slight increase in load. The results obtained in the experiment are successful to prove that the output signals which with the controller are almost the same for both simulation and experimental modes.
Probabilistic Joint State Estimation of Robot and Non-static Objects for Mobile Manipulation
Authors: Qian Kun , Ma Xudong , Dai Xian Zhong , Fang Fang , Zhou Bo
Published: November 2017

In this paper, a unified and probabilistic method is proposed for simultaneously localization of a mobile service robot and states estimation of surrounding objects and co-existing people. This method allows intelligent robots to navigate reliably in dynamic environments and provide home-care services based on joint localization results. The algorithm makes use of probabilistic model to represent non-static people and objects states. Moreover, Rao-Blackwellized particle filters (RBPFs) are utilized for efficient joint estimation and laser sensing based smooth observation model is also introduced. The resulting algorithm works in real-time and estimates the position of people and state of doors with sufficient precision. Our approach has been tested in typical indoor environment with people, doors and other non-static objects. Experimental results demonstrate the favorable performance of the position estimation accuracy as well as the capability to deal with the uncertainty of mobile sensing.
Advanced Secure User Authentication Framework for Cloud Computing
Authors: Jiang Rui
Published: November 2017

Cloud Computing, as an emerging, virtual, large-scale distributed computing model, has gained increasing attention these years. Meanwhile it also faces many security challenges, one of which is authentication. Lots of researches have been done in this area. Recently, Choudhury et al proposed a user authentication framework to ensure user legitimacy before entering into the cloud. They claimed their scheme could provide identity management, mutual authentication, session key agreement between the user and the cloud server, and demanded user password change. However, we find the scheme will easily suffer from some attacks such as the masquerading attack, the OOB (out of band) attack, and the password change flaw through our analysis. In this paper, we first point out the security vulnerabilities to the Choudhury et al’s scheme, and present the detailed attacks on the scheme. Then, based on some remote user authentication schemes such as Ku-Chen’s scheme and Chen’s scheme, we apply the two-factor authentication technology to propose our advanced secure user authentication framework which can overcome above security shortages. Without sending one time key through secure OOB channel, our new protocol is able to ensure that only legitimate users can access the cloud service based on smartcard. In addition, our advanced scheme can hold all the merits of the Choudhury et al’s scheme. Formal security analysis, which is based on the strand space model and authentication test, proves that our proposed scheme is secure under standard cryptographic. Also, the simulation results illustrate that our advanced scheme is more efficient on the communication performance than other schemes.
System Identification Modelling and IMC based PID Control of Impressed Current Cathodic Protection Systems
Authors: Balla EzzEldin , MohdFua’ad Rahmat
Published: November 2017

Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) system is the most practical method of cathodic protection systems. This system is widely used to prevent the external corrosion of carbon steel structures; especially those are used in underground oil and gas pipelines. In this paper, the theoretical background, principles and concepts of ICCP systems have been discussed. An effective laboratory scale for ICCP systems was built according to specific concepts has been clarified. Consequently,the parametric model of this system was obtained using System Identification (SI) approach.Furthermore,an Internal Model Control based Proportional Integral Derivative (IMC-PID) controller has been designed for enhancingthe performance of ICCP systems.Additionally, simulation and onlineimplementation works have been carried out to control ICCP systems at different operating conditions. Nevertheless, the IMC-PID controller leads todecrease both the Integral of the Absolute Error (IAE) and the Steady State Error (SSE) which are lower values compared to the open loop system.
Sensor-Based Wireless Wearable Systems for Healthcare and Falls Monitoring
Authors: Honglun Hou , Meimei Huo , Minghui Wu
Published: November 2017

The rapid aging of the world’s population, along with an increase in the prevalence of chronic illnesses, requires adaption and modification of current healthcare models. New trends on healthcare technologies fall into the use of autonomous systems that allows the capturing and monitoring of physiological parameters anytime and anywhere. One approach involves tele-health applications, many of which are based on sensor technologies for unobtrusive monitoring. Recent technological advances, in particular, involving micro-electromechanical systems, have resulted in miniaturized wearable devices that can be used. In this paper, based-on our algorithms research, a ubiquitous personal health monitoring and system is designed, which integrates health-related sensory devices with the healthcare center cost-effectively. It can aid senior citizens and patients, especially elderly, who need long-term attention to their physical condition, like chronic diseases and falls, with ubiquitous surveillance and remote management of the recorded health data, and timely help.
Classification of artificial light sources and estimation of Color Rendering Index using RGB sensors, K Nearest Neighbor and Radial Basis Function
Authors: Botero V. J.-S. , López G. F.-E. , Vargas B. J.-F.
Published: November 2017

Three types of artificial light sources work with electricity: incandescent, fluorescent and LED. These sources require characterization processes to allow selecting the most suitable for the application, to evaluate their capacity or more recently to tune and adjust their replicability using control algorithms. Therefore, it has been necessary to develop indices that represent these capabilities. The Color Rendering Index (CRI) is a measure used to characterize the color reproducibility of a light source in comparison to an ideal light source. The Correlated Color Temperature (CCT) is used to characterize light sources by representing the color as the temperature of a black body in Kelvin that shows nearly the same chromaticity as the analyzed light source. Using spectral information to determine the values in the XYZ space and deriving the calculation described in the standard is the best way to estimate the value of the CCT and the CRI. In this work, we implement a method to classify light sources and to select an estimation model of the CRI and the CCT using a low cost RGB sensor. The model estimation has been developed in this work and a separated algorithm for each source type has been built. The results show that using a K-Nearest Neighbor classifier, the error resulted less than $3.6%$. The error of the model estimation for the LED was 1.8%, for fluorescent light sources 0.09% and 1.2% for incandescent light sources.
Multivariable Pid Control Via Ilmis: Performances Assessment
Authors: Belhaj Wajdi , Boubaker Olfa
Published: November 2017

This paper addresses the problem of performance assessment for MIMO PID controllers. An efficient comparative analysis is established using two Iterative Linear Matrix Inequality (ILMI) approaches. To evaluate the robustness and the performances of each ILMI approach, four tests are carried out on the closed-loop system including White Gaussian noise, set point changes, parametric perturbation, and multiple time-delays influence. Different performance criterion such as IAE, ISE, ITAE and ITSE are also presented to evaluate the closed-loop system performances. The quadruple-tank process as a benchmark of minimum/non-minimum phase systems is applied to show the effectiveness and utility of the proposed analysis. The comparative analysis between the two PID controllers leads to nearly similar performance results in parametric perturbation and noise attenuation but different results in terms of set point changes, multiple time-delays influence and performance indices
Bayesian Model Averaging and Jointness Measures: Theoretical Framework and Application to the Gravity Model of Trade
Authors: Beck Krzysztof
Published: November 2017

The following study presents the idea of Bayesian model averaging (BMA), as well as the benefits coming from combining the knowledge obtained on the basis of analysis of different models. The BMA structure is described together with its most important statistics, g prior parameter proposals, prior model size distributions, and also the jointness measures proposed by Ley and Steel (2007), as well as Doppelhofer and Weeks (2009). The application of BMA is illustrated with the gravity model of trade, where determinants of trade are chosen from the list of nine different variables. The employment of BMA enabled the identification of four robust determinants: geographical distance, real GDP product, population product and real GDP per capita distance. At the same time applications of jointness measures reveal some rather surprising relationships between the variables, as well as demonstrate the superiority of Ley and Steel’s measure over the one introduced by Dopplehofer and Weeks.
Stacked Regression With a Generalization of the Moore-Penrose Pseudoinverse
Authors: Górecki Tomasz , Łuczak Maciej
Published: November 2017

In practice, it often happens that there are a number of classification methods. We are not able to clearly determine which method is optimal. We propose a combined method that allows us to consolidate information from multiple sources in a better classifier. Stacked regression (SR) is a method for forming linear combinations of different classifiers to give improved classification accuracy. The Moore-Penrose (MP) pseudoinverse is a general way to find the solution to a system of linear equations.

This paper presents the use of a generalization of the MP pseudoinverse of a matrix in SR. However, for data sets with a greater number of features our exact method is computationally too slow to achieve good results: we propose a genetic approach to solve the problem. Experimental results on various real data sets demonstrate that the improvements are efficient and that this approach outperforms the classical SR method, providing a significant reduction in the mean classification error rate.
Subjective Approach to Assessing Poverty in Poland – Implications for Social Policy
Authors: Morawski Leszek , Domitrz Adrian
Published: November 2017

The poverty rates based on the OECD scales are frequently used in public debate. In this scale, large families are usually identified as those most in need of financial support. Poland is an interesting case for applying an alternative, subjective approach to calculating equivalent scales, as Poland has a large mean size for households, and is dependent on means-testing in social policymaking. The overall poverty rates for the two approaches are not distinctly different but they lead to significantly different distributions of poverty, as different types of households are considered in line with the result in Bishop et al. (2014) for the eurozone countries. The subjective approach suggests that one-person households, not large families, should be considered most at risk of material poverty. Futhermore, the relative positions of households in the income distributions also differ considerably. As a consequence, the current shape of social policy in Poland may need to be reconsidered in order to distribute public transfers more accurately.
Growth rate and acid-base balance in turkeys fed a silage-containing diet modified by different dietary cation-anion difference
Authors: Gruszczyński Kamil , Strobel Wacław , Wójcik Marta , Kosior-Korzecka Urszula , Wessely-Szponder Joanna , Bobowiec Ryszard
Published: November 2017

The aim of the study was to find the responses of acid-base parameters and performance parameters of turkeys to a corn silage (CS) diet with different values of the dietary cation-anion difference (DCAD). The turkeys were fed as follows: group A (control) – standard diet (SD) (60%) plus CS (40%); group B – SD (60%), CS (40%) plus 240 g of CaCl2 per100 kg of diet; group C – SD (60%), CS (40%) plus 480 g of CaCl2 per 100 kg of diet; group D – SD (60%), CS (40%) plus 240 g of NaHCO3 per 100 kg of diet; group E – SD (60%), CS (40%) plus 480 g NaHCO3 per 100 kg of diet. The addition of the smaller amount of CaCl2 reduced DCAD, which ranged between 49.75 ± 6.29 mEq/kg DM and 93.56 ± 3.34 mEq/kg DM. An increased content of CaCl2 led to high, negative values of DCAD. NaHCO3 supplemented in both doses resulted in a significant elevation of DCAD. The addition of CS to the SD led to a lower body weight in comparison to that in the B, C, D and E groups. Forage acidification and alkalization improves body weight gain (BWG) at every stage of feeding. Compared to the control group, the anion gap was insignificantly lower in birds exposed to the acidic diet, and was comparable to the decrease in HCO3 –. Conversely, the addition of NaHCO3 to the diet led to a marked elevation in HCO3 – to 29.63 ± 0.4 mEq/L in group D and to 30.3 ± 0.69 mEq/l in group E. In conclusion, a change in DCAD during the feeding of forage containing CS exerts stimulatory effects on productive parameters of turkeys....
Influence of humic acid supplemented to sheep diets on rumen enzymatic activity
Authors: Majewska Małgorzata P. , Miltko Renata , Skomiał Jacek , Kowalik Barbara
Published: November 2017

The objective of the present study was to investigate how different levels of natural humic acid in the diet affect the hydrolases activity in the rumen of sheep. The experiment was carried out on three rumen-fistulated adult sheep. The control animals were fed a diet (K) containing 59.7% meadow hay, 28.4% crushed barley, 9.8% soybean oil meal and 2.1% vitamin mineral mixture. The experimental diets were composed of the control ration supplemented with humic acid (HUMAC natur AFM® containing 65% humic acid in dry matter) and supplied at doses of 10 g · d–1 (diet H10) or 20 g · d–1 (diet H20). Samples of rumen digesta were collected just before the morning feeding, as well as 2, 4, and 8 h afterwards. In the present study, the cellulolytic activity in the rumen digesta was higher (P < 0.01) in sheep fed the K diet than it was in animals fed the H20 ration 2 h after feeding. However, the effect of humic acid on the cellulose degradation rate depended on the content of humic acid in the diet. The cellulolytic activity was increased 2 h after feeding in sheep fed the H10 diet as compared with animals fed the H20 ration (P < 0.05). Sampling time had significant influence on the hydrolases activity in the rumen of sheep. In sheep fed the H10 ration, the cellulolytic activity was higher 8 h after feeding than it was before feeding and 4 h after feeding (P < 0.05). In the H10 and H20 groups, the xylnalolytic activity was higher before feeding, but lower than it was in the control group K. The degradation rates of xylan were decreased 2 and 4 h after feeding in sheep fed the H10 and H20 rations and then increased 8 h after feeding (P < 0.05). In sheep fed the H20 diet, the amylolitic activity 8 h after feeding was higher than it was 2 h after feeding (P < 0.05). The effect of humic acid on the hydrolases activity in the rumen of sheep is not uniform and depends on the quantity of humic acid in the diet and on sampling time. Humic acid present in commercial HUMAC natur AFM® product enhances the initial rate of cellulose degradation in the rumen at a dose of 10 g · d-1. Thus, it may suggest that humic acid stimulates the growth of fibrolytic microorganisms in the rumen. On the other hand, the present results suggest that humic acid may reduce the rate of carbohydrate degradation in the rumen, since a higher hydrolases activity was observed before morning feeding and 8 h afterwards....
Effect of organic and mineral selenium sources on production performance and selected physiological indicators in swine
Authors: Szuba-Trznadel Anna , Hikawczuk Tomasz , Ciura Adam , Fuchs Bogusław
Published: November 2017

The study was conducted on sows (hybrids of wbp × pbz breeds) and their offspring (until day 75 of life) kept on a farm. The aim of the experiment was to compare the effects of different sources of selenium (Se) on the production performance of the animals, Se content in their blood, the level of Se in sow’s colostrum, as well as Gpx, haptoglobin and immunoglobulin levels in the serum of sows and their offspring. Experimental feed mixtures for pregnant sows (LP), lactating sows (LK) and piglets (prestarter and starter) in each treatment had an identical basic composition, differing only in the type of selenium forms. Group I received a mineral form of Se in an amount of 0.2 mg/kg; group II received a mixture of a Se amino acid chelate and the mineral form of Se (0.1 mg/kg of each); group III received a Se amino acid chelate (0.2 mg/kg), and group IV received Se-enriched yeasts (0.2 mg/kg). Beneficial effects of the organic forms of Se were evident already in the lactation period. Sows, especially those from group II receiving 0.2 mg/kg of organic Se, had a higher feed intake, which was related to a higher milk production during lactation. As a result, on the weaning day, piglets from this group were significantly heavier than the other piglets. After weaning, as well, the piglets in this group were significantly heavier. These results were confirmed by parameters of blood serum and whey colostrum. Selenium as a chelate was more available than the mineral and enriched yeast forms. For this reason, the animals receiving the chelate were healthier (fewer inflammations were noted). The animals in this group also showed a better feed conversion compared with the others. The Gpx level in sows’ serum varied depending on the treatment. The highest level of this parameter was determined in sows from group III (receiving 0.2 mg/kg of organic Se), and it differed significantly from its value in the control group. The results showed that the Gpx level was related to the Se concentration in blood serum, which was also confirmed by a higher production of selenocysteine (a part of Gpx). Cells of the animals from this group were better protected against free radicals. Administration of 0.1 mg/kg of organic Se positively affects the performance of animals, but the recommended level in feed is 0.2 mg/kg of a selenium-containing amino acid....
Noise emissions from highway with the use of measuring and modeling
Authors: Forouhid Amir Esmael
Published: November 2017

Due to population growth in major cities, many issues and problems bother related governors. Due to noise pollution, diseases like psychiatric, hearing problems and sleep disorders increased dramatically. In conclusion, this issue has to be studied and controlled by authorities in order to increase health care of area. This paper is case study of sound wave emission of one of the most crowded highways in Tehran city. In result, in rush hours, when the volume of vehicles is in its most and their speed in low, noise pollution of the area increases. But when the road in clear and speed in high and volume is low, sound level reaches its lowest value. Average sound level of this highway is 97.23 (dB).
Diversity controlled rotating machinery fault detection
Authors: Jamrozik Wojciech
Published: November 2017

Classifier ensembles are more and more often applied for technical diagnostic problems. When dealing with vibration signals a lot of point features can be extracted. In this situation there is the problem of how to choose the best classifiers in the ensemble. One solution is the use of measures that quantify diversities amongst the classifier outputs. While there is no general diversity definition and method of calculation, the selection of the correct measure is a vital task. In this paper research is presented on the application of classifier ensembles built with Bagging for the detection of rotating machinery faults. It was found that there is a relationship between classification accuracy and the diversity measures.
Dynamics analysis of reciprocating compressor with a clearance between crankshaft and connecting rod
Authors: Cheng Shouguo , Liu Shulin
Published: November 2017

The dynamic characteristics of reciprocating compressor with clearance between crankshaft and connecting rod were studied. The clearance was regarded as massless virtual link and the dynamics model was established by using Lagrange equation. The variation law of displacement, velocity and acceleration are analyzed under different clearance and different speed conditions of the slider. No-load and load of reciprocating compressor motion were studied. through the phase diagram and the maximum Lyapunov index method. It is found that chaos generally exists reciprocating compressor with clearance between crankshaft and connecting rod and the piston force makes the chaotic motion more intense.
Chaotic dynamics in Bertrand model with technological innovation
Authors: Wang Fenglian , Wang Banglun , Xie Rongjian
Published: November 2017

In this paper, the dynamics of a Bertrand duopoly game with technology innovation have been studied, which contains boundedly rational and naive players. They have been analyzed that the stability of the equilibrium point, the bifurcation and chaotic behavior of the dynamic system. It has been proved that technology innovation has played a very important role in the stability of Nash equilibrium point. Technology innovation can enlarge the stability region of the speed and control the chaos of the dynamic system effectively.
Theoretical research of dynamic characteristics of Tc bearing of measurement while drilling
Authors: Shi Rong , Fan Jinhui , Peng Hao , Wu Miao
Published: November 2017

In this paper, through analyzing Tc bearing by the theory of Hydrodynamic lubrication, the unsteady Reynolds equation of Tc bearing under the dynamic-state condition is initially established. The formula of Tc bearing’s liquid-film dimensionless stiffness coefficient and damping coefficient is derived. Furthermore, two kinds of the distribution curves of Tc bearing’s liquid-film dimensionless stiffness coefficient, damping coefficient against Tc bearing’s eccentricity ratio and width-diameter ratio are displayed respectively, and the stability criterion of liquid film is worked out and the angular speed of instability of bearing shaft is calculated. Overall, conclusions are drawn: downhole system improves the entire system’s stability by enhancing the stiffness of bearing shaft itself. The improvement of the stability of bearing shaft itself, which can be done by altering the structure of Tc bearing and adopting better spiral flutes and ellipse groove can strengthen the whole system’s stability. The high width-diameter ratio of Tc bearing increases the liquid film’s stiffness coefficient and damping coefficient of Tc bearing. The rotational rate of rotary table is lower than half of that of the supporting system of Tc bearing.
Numerical study of lateral bending influence on lumbar intervertebral disc
Authors: Mikuckytė Sandra , Ostaševičius Vytautas
Published: November 2017

The objective of this study is to investigate the influence of in the frontal plane constrained and free lateral bending moves on lumbar spine intervertebral disc and to decide whether lateral bending could be beneficial for lumbar spine rehabilitation. A three dimensional poroelastic finite element model of L4-L5 intervertebral disc was used to investigate the influence of lateral bending moves on healthy and degenerated lumbar intervertebral discs. Results of finite element modeling show that stress values in moderately degenerated annulus fibrosus increase more when lateral bending is combined with flexion and extension, also, additional flexion, extension and axial rotation movements reduce fluid velocity in nucleus pulposus compared with pure (in the frontal plane constrained) lateral bending. These results suggest that pure lateral bending exercise could be more beneficial than other moves in order to achieve better nutrition of intervertebral disc, and that degeneration of intervertebral discs should be evaluated before defining an intensity of lateral bending exercise.
Vibroacoustic handling and levitation of microparticles in air
Authors: Ostasevicius Vytautas , Jurenas Vytautas , Gaidys Rimvydas , Golinka Ievgeniia
Published: November 2017

The levitation and controlled movement of substances in the air has many potential applications, from materials handling to biochemistry and pharmacy. In this work, the handling of microparticles by sound field in vibrating cylinder was investigated by simulation and experimental measurement. A standing wave field created between the piezotransducer and the reflector created the conditions for levitating microparticles, which were concentrated at nodes of the vibrating cylinder surface. The acoustic wave and the cylinder walls were excited by the same disk-shaped piezotransducer fixed to the bottom of the cylinder
Transient vibration analysis of BTA deep-hole drilling shaft system
Authors: Ma Guohong , Shen Xingquan
Published: November 2017

Dynamics of deep-hole drilling shaft system is closely related to hole processing quality. From the viewpoint of rotor dynamics and fluid-structure interaction, the governing equation of the drilling shaft system for lateral vibration is obtained taking into account of fluid-structure interaction, rotational inertia, gyroscopic effect, the effect of motion constraints and frictional damping generated by surrounding fluid. The influence of rotational angular velocity and compressive axial force on transient vibration of drilling shaft is mainly examined. It has been found that rotational angular velocity has an obvious effect on the lateral vibration of drilling shaft, whereas the lateral vibration of drilling shaft does not change significantly with the increase of compressive axial force.
Analysis of high frequency vibrations and heat impact on human hands
Authors: Juknevičius Andrius Romualdas , Venslauskas Mantas , Žilinskaitė Paulina Jolanta , Litvinas Edvinas , Bubulis Algimantas , Baranauskaitė Asta
Published: November 2017

This article describes combined impact of ultrasound and heat therapies on patients with rheumatoid arthritis, systemic scleroderma and Raynaud’s syndrome. Theoretical background of ultrasound and thermal effect was analyzed and described. Flexibility, strength and temperature of subjects’ wrists and hands were investigated using thermographic camera, dynamometer, and physiological indicators. Investigation results were analyzed and demonstrated in graphs.
Study on wind resistance coefficient of double split wire arrangement
Authors: Ouyang Ke Jian , Duan Ming Cai , Zhang Ming Qiang , Wu Xiao Zhong , Xiao Li Hua
Published: November 2017

Shape coefficients of a single traverse and twin branch lines are examined through wind tunnel experiments and numerical simulations under different angle of attacks and wind speeds. It was found that the shape coefficient at angle of attack equaling to 0 is obviously smaller than the others. And the effects of Reynolds number are also large. The numerical results give difference between cases reaching 20 %, however, the experimental ones only 1.17 %. It is because that the initial condition of CFD is idealized but the wind tunnel experiment is closer to the reality.
The investigation of traffic flow dynamics of road with traffic lights
Authors: Danilevičius Algimantas , Bogdevičius Marijonas
Published: November 2017

In this paper, using discrete model of traffic flow the dynamics of traffic flow against traffic lights controlled road section points was analyzed. In the article is determined what is going on with the traffic flows when period of traffic lights switching was chosen. For the results, road points at different distances from traffic light-controlled road points were chosen. The flow, velocity and density dynamics of traffic flows are determined at different points before the traffic lights. Fundamental diagrams to determine the dependence of traffic flow and density are developed.
Dynamic displacement estimation using data fusion
Authors: Upnere Sabine , Jekabsons Normunds
Published: November 2017

The paper describes a Kalman filtering technique for dynamic displacement estimation using accelerometer and laser sensor measurements. Data fusion of measurements from multiple sensors can give the more accurate results because of different advantages of sensors. Since the acceleration and displacement have different sampling rates, the multi-rate Kalman filter is applied. The filter is expanded with the fixed interval smoother to improve reconstruction accuracy of displacements. A modelled signal consisting of two sinus functions and Gaussian distributed noise is used to validate developed state-space model.
Rheological and damping characteristics of adaptive materials for layered structures
Authors: Zhurauski Mikalai , Bubulis Algimantas , Korobko Evguenia , Novikova Zoya , Kuzmin Vladimir
Published: November 2017

Compositions of high-filled magnetically controlled materials with different dispersed phase particle sizes are developed. Rheological and damping characteristics of materials in the system of oscillations of three-layer plates are determined and their dependence on the size of magnetically sensitive particles is established.
Nanoporous aluminum oxide membranes for biomedical micro hydraulic devices
Authors: Janusas Giedrius , Guobiene Asta , Palevicius Arvydas , Ramalis Lukas
Published: November 2017

The main aim of this paper is to create nanoporouse aluminium oxide membrane which could be used as vibroactive nanofilter in biomedical micro hydraulic devices. This research paper covers the experimental setup of nanoporouse aluminium oxide membrane fabrication and the investigations of its chemical and surface properties. A custom-made anodization experimental setup was used to form membrane with hexagonal pores of 70 nm diameter and 110 nm interpore distance.
Electromagnetic acoustic boiler tubes inspection with robotic device
Authors: Vakhguelt Anatoli , Syswoio Jo Riady , Bergander Marek J.
Published: November 2017

This paper dedicated to electromagnetic acoustic (EMA) inspection of boiler tubes in the process of regular maintenance for prevention of tube rupture. This non-destructive testing method is developed to replace commonly used ultrasonic method of inspection which is costly and very labor intensive. During proposed EMA inspection surface of tubes does not require sandblasting and special coupling between measuring tool and tube wall. Commonly used ultrasonic method, based on detection of the wave generated by a piezoelectric effect of a crystal transducer, provides accurate but sparse data and takes long time to inspect healthy boiler condition. Electromagnetic acoustic transducer EMAT generates such wave directly in tube material by electromagnetic method. EMAT technology is well known and used in many nondestructive testing situations. This method relies on generating ultrasound wave directly in the metal in the form of elastic wave with ultrasonic velocity, characteristic for a given metal. There are two ways that EMATs can generate elastic energy directly in the boiler water-wall. The first is via the “Lorentz force” mechanism where interaction between an applied magnetic field and induced eddy currents produces an elastic wave. The second is through magnetostriction (MS), where an alternating magnetic field generates an alternating elastic force. Developed and fabricated with high energy Neodymium-Iron-Boron permanent magnets with magnetic energy over 56 MGsOe by M. Bergander [1] transducer is able to generate strong elastic wave using magnitostrictive properties of tube material for prediction of the tube thickness. In the special conditions of coal-fired boiler inside and outside surfaces of the tube are covered by erosive and corrosive layers. Those corrosive and erosive layers have good magnitostrictive properties which allow making water-wall thickness measurement without sand blasting and without necessity to have coupling between measurement tool and the tube material surface. This method allows inspecting boiler tubing much faster with the high quality of assessment. To make process of inspection faster claiming robot has been designed. This robot is able to deliver sensor of the measuring device to the surface of the tube and provide stable data reading. Using such robotic device it is possible to do automation of the inspection procedure.
The sanitation and hygiene targets of the sustainable development goals: scope and challenges
Authors: Mara Duncan , Evans Barbara
Published: November 2017

The sanitation target of the Sustainable Development Goals is that everyone should have a ‘safely-managed’ sanitation facility by 2030 and that open defecation be eliminated. The scale of this target is unprecedently large: ∼5.6 billion additional people will require safely-managed sanitation by 2030 (∼1 million per day), and ∼1.3 billion people will need to switch from open to fixed-defecation in a sanitation facility by 2030 (240,000 per day). Safely-managed shared sanitation and container-based sanitation are both likely to be part of the solution, particularly in urban slums. The SDG hygiene target covers facilities for handwashing with soap, menstrual-hygiene management, and food hygiene, but only handwashing with soap is monitored by WHO/UNICEF. In 2015, the percentage of people with handwashing-with-soap facilities at home ranged from 15% in Sub-Saharan Africa to 76% in Western Asia and North Africa. The costs to meet these targets are around US$46 billion in urban areas, and US$25 billion in rural areas, per year during 2016–2030. Benefit-cost ratios are ∼18 in rural areas. There is a correspondingly considerable need for training local sanitation and hygiene professionals, so that they can plan and design interventions to meet the SDG target.
Flexor Pollicis Brevis Muscle. Anatomical Study and Clinical Implications
Authors: Caetano Edie Benedito , Nakamichi Yuri da Cunha , Alves de Andrade Renato , Sawada Maico Minoru , Nakasone Mauricio Tadeu , Vieira Luiz Angelo , Sabongi Rodrigo Guerra
Published: November 2017

Introduction:

This paper reports anatomical study of nature, incidence, innervation and clinical implications of Flexor Pollicis Brevis muscle (FPB).

Material and Methods:

The anatomical dissection of 60 limbs from 30 cadavers were performed in the Department of Anatomy of Medical School of Catholic University of São Paulo.

Results:

The superficial head of FPB has been innervated by the median nerve in 70% and in 30% it had double innervation. The deep head of FPB were absent in 14%, in 65%, occurred a double innervation. In 17.5% by deep branch of ulnar nerve and in 3.6% by recurrent branch of median nerve.

Conclusion:

The pattern of innervation more frequent in relationship to the flexor pollicis brevis muscle and should be considered as a normal pattern is that superficial head receives innervation of branches of median nerve and the deep head receives innervation of ulnar and median nerve.
Use of Alum for Odor Reduction in Sludge and Biosolids from Different Wastewater Treatment Processes
Authors: Gruchlik Yolanta , Fouché Lise , Joll Cynthia A. , Heitz Anna
Published: November 2017

Applicability of alum addition to wastewater sludge and biosolids produced from different treatment processes was evaluated as a means of odor reduction. Four water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs) were chosen for this study: two used mesophilic anaerobic digestion and two used oxidation ditch processes. The experiments were conducted on a laboratory scale and in all cases the alum was added prior to dewatering. This is the first report of the application of alum for odor reduction in oxidation ditch processes. Alum addition was effective in reducing odors in anaerobically digested biosolids. Addition of 4% alum to anaerobically digested liquid biosolids prior to dewatering resulted in a 60% reduction in the peak odor concentration in the laboratory dewatered cake, relative to the control sample. Alum addition did not reduce odors in dewatered sludge from oxidation ditch processes.
Biological Phosphorus Recovery: Review of Current Progress and Future Needs
Authors: Yang Yu , Shi Xu , Ballent Wendy , Mayer Brooke K.
Published: November 2017

This review summarizes the main species of polyphosphate accumulating organisms (PAOs) and algae, illustrates their pathways and key enzymes, discusses biological phosphorous (P) recovery from dilute waters, and identifies research avenues to encourage adoption and implementation. Phylogenic analysis indicates that theProteobacteriaphylum plays an important role in enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR). The use of meta‐transcriptome analysis and single cell‐based techniques to help overcome the challenges associated with non‐PAO competition was discussed. For algae capable of luxury phosphorus uptake, fundamental research is needed to illustrate the phosphorus regulation process and key proteins involved. Emerging technologies and processes have great potential to further advance phosphorus recovery, including combined PAO/algae reactors, bioelectrochemical systems, and biosorption by phosphorus binding proteins. As the paradigm shifts toward holistic resource recovery, research is needed to explore P+ recovery with other resources (e.g., metals from sludge), using a combination of biological and chemical approaches.
O dia mundial do câncer / World cancer day
Authors: Yoshinari Júnior Gerson Yoshinari Júnior , Oliveira Harley Francisco de
Published: November 2017

O dia 4 de fevereiro foi escolhido como o Dia Mundial do Câncer (World Cancer Day), iniciativa da Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), sediada em Genebra (Suíça), com o objetivo de unir a população mundial na luta contra o câncer. Este é um tema importante: atualmente, 8,2 milhões de pessoas morrem de câncer todos os anos. Em alguns países, as mortes por doenças oncológicas já superam as por doenças cardiovasculares, tomando o primeiro lugar nesta nefasta competição. A expectativa é de que, em 2025, a incidência mundial seja de 19,3 milhões, com 11,5 milhões de mortes em decorrência da patologia. No Brasil, segundo estimativas do Instituto Nacional do Câncer, teremos no biênio 2016-2017 cerca de 600 mil casos novos de câncer. A magnitude epidemiológica da doença é inegável.A história do Dia Mundial do Câncer inicia-se em 2016 e pretende, em uma campanha de três anos, explorar como pessoas ou grupo de pessoas podem promover ações para reduzir o impacto da doença oncológica em uma escala global. Com o tema “We Can. I can”. (em tradução livre, “Nós podemos. Eu posso.”), a campanha almeja conscientizar a população de que todos podem realizar ações para diminuir as consequências do câncer em indivíduos, famílias e comunidades. As ações são divididas em pacotes temáticos. Dentro do pacote “Nós podemos”, são sugeridas ações como “Inspire atitudes, tome atitudes”, “Previna o câncer”, “Crie escolas, ambientes de trabalho e cidades mais saudáveis”, “Apoie que outros retornem ao trabalho”, dentre outros.