bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Automatic Measurement Method for Absolute Depth of Objects in Two Monocular Images Based on SIFT Feature
Authors: He Lixin , Yang Jing , Kong Bin , Wang Can
Published: May 2017

Recovering depth information of objects from two-dimensional images is one of the very important and basic problems in the field of computer vision. In view of the shortcomings of existing methods of depth estimation, a novel approach based on SIFT (the Scale Invariant Feature Transform) is presented in this paper. The approach can estimate the depths of objects in two images which are captured by an un-calibrated ordinary monocular camera. In this approach, above all, the first image is captured. All of the camera parameters remain unchanged, and the second image is acquired after moving the camera a distance d along the optical axis. Then image segmentation and SIFT feature extraction are implemented on the two images separately, and objects in the images are matched. Lastly, an object’s depth can be computed by the lengths of a pair of straight line segments. In order to ensure that the most appropriate pair of straight line segments are chosen, and also reduce computation, convex hull theory and knowledge of triangle similarity are employed. The experimental results show our approach is effective and practical.
Effects of Three Different Additives and Two Different Bulk Densities on Maize Silage Characteristics, Temperature Profiles, CO2 and O2–Dynamics in Small Scale Silos during Aerobic Exposure
Authors: Jungbluth Kerstin , Trimborn Manfred , Maack Gerd-Christian , Büscher Wolfgang , Li Menghua , Cheng Hong , Cheng Qiang , Sun Yurui
Published: May 2017

Silage quality and aerobic stability are sometimes insufficient. If management requirements are not met, or to improve silage quality, additives are often used. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of different factors on silage during aerobic conditions. Whole-crop forage maize was harvested and 24 buckets (65 L) were filled and assigned to one of four treatment groups: (1) control (no treatment); (2) chemical additive (sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, sodium acetate); (3) a mixed biological inoculant containing Lactobacillus buchneri, L. plantarum, and Pediococcus acidilacti; and (4) a mixed biological inoculant containing L. buchneri, L. plantarum, and L. rhamnosus. An untreated variation was also ensiled. Two different densities were adjusted during ensiling. After opening, the temperature was measured for seven days and O2 and CO2 concentrations were analysed. The findings show that the chemical additive very effectively prevented silage from reheating and deteriorating. Aerobic reheating of silage was also successfully inhibited through biological additives and high density.
Evaluation of a Novel Controlled Cutting Fluid Impinging Supply System When Machining Titanium Alloys
Authors: Gariani Salah , Shyha Islam , Inam Fawad , Huo Dehong
Published: May 2017

Following a comprehensive review on titanium machining and methods of cutting fluid application, this paper presents a new Controlled cutting fluid impinging supply system (Cut‐list) developed to deliver an accurate amount of cutting fluid into the machining zone via wellpositioned coherent nozzles based on the calculation of the heat generated. The performance of the new system was evaluated against a conventional flood cutting fluid supply system during step shoulder milling of Ti‐6Al‐4V using vegetable oil‐based cutting fluid. The comparison was performed at different cutting speeds and feed rates. Comparison measures/indicators were cutting force, workpiece temperature, tool flank wear, burr formation and average surface roughness (Ra). The new system provided significant reductions in cutting fluid consumption of up to 42%. Additionally, reductions in cutting force, tool flank wear and burr height of 16.41%, 46.77%, and 31.70% were recorded, respectively. Smaller Ra values were also found with the use of the new system.
Damage Assessment Using Information Entropy of Individual Acoustic Emission Waveforms during Cyclic Fatigue Loading
Authors: Sauerbrunn Christine , Kahirdeh Ali , Yun Huisung , Modarres Mohammad
Published: May 2017

Information entropy measured from acoustic emission (AE) waveforms is shown to be an indicator of fatigue damage in a high-strength aluminum alloy. Three methods of measuring the AE information entropy, regarded as a direct measure of microstructural disorder, are proposed and compared with traditional damage-related AE features. Several tension–tension fatigue experiments were performed with dogbone samples of aluminum 7075-T6, a commonly used material in aerospace structures. Unlike previous studies in which fatigue damage is measured based on visible crack growth, this work investigated fatigue damage both prior to and after crack initiation through the use of instantaneous elastic modulus degradation. Results show that one of the three entropy measurement methods appears to better assess the damage than the traditional AE features, whereas the other two entropies have unique trends that can differentiate between small and large cracks.
Characteristics of Strong Cold Air Outbreaks in China’s Central and Eastern Mongolian Region between 1970 and 2013
Authors: Wang Zongming , Sun Zhaobo , Zeng Gang
Published: May 2017

Strong cold air outbreak tracking has been a key meteorological focal point over the years. With observational data and gridded datasets, we used the “three-dimensional wind speed trajectory inverse method” to trace cold air intrusion tracks that occurred during the winter half-years for the central and eastern parts of Inner Mongolia in 1970–2013. The results indicated that there were a total of 303 northwest and 32 westward tracks intruding from along the north end and southern side of the Altai Mountains, respectively, 118 northward tracks intruding from the two individual sides of the Yablonoi Mountains, and 16 occurrences of “other” tracks. The imminent circulation evolution pattern prior to outbreaks essentially causes three categories of cold air masses to undergo dramatic temperature increases, thereby reducing the impacts of source regional differences on the subject air masses. The measure of the annual frequency reduction in northwest tracks was determined to be 0.41 incidents every ten years, while other tracks’ annual frequencies increased, which essentially implies the probable increase of extreme cold in northeast and central China and an increase in the frequency of continuous cold weather exceeding a three-day span in southern China.
Evaluation of Soybean–Navy Bean Emulsions Using Different Processing Technologies
Authors: Liu Sean , Singh Mukti , Wayman Ashley , Chen Diejun , Kenar James
Published: May 2017

In this study, an innovative emulsion made from soybean and navy bean blends of different proportionalities was developed. In addition, two processing methods were used: traditional cooking and jet-cooking. The physical attributes and storage stability were measured and compared. This study found that the high content of starch and fiber in navy bean flour contributes to the increase in viscosity of the emulsions, at both room and refrigeration temperatures, as the proportion of navy bean flour in the blends increased. The steam jet-cooked emulsions with higher soybean content has better shelf life stability, smaller particle size, higher fat, lower starch, and lower viscosity, whereas the traditional kettle cooking method is better in reducing anti-nutritional components. No significant difference was found between the two cooking methods in terms of nutritional contents in the emulsions, such as protein, crude fat, and total starch. The traditional kettle cooking, with its longer cooking time, seems to reduce more trypsin inhibitor in the emulsions than those prepared with the steam jet-cooking. This exploratory study is the first to report soybean–navy bean beverage prototypes having desirable nutritional value and the potential for functional beverage market.
Development and Characterization of a Parallelizable Perfusion Bioreactor for 3D Cell Culture
Authors: Egger Dominik , Fischer Monica , Clementi Andreas , Ribitsch Volker , Hansmann Jan , Kasper Cornelia
Published: May 2017

The three dimensional (3D) cultivation of stem cells in dynamic bioreactor systems is essential in the context of regenerative medicine. Still, there is a lack of bioreactor systems that allow the cultivation of multiple independent samples under different conditions while ensuring comprehensive control over the mechanical environment. Therefore, we developed a miniaturized, parallelizable perfusion bioreactor system with two different bioreactor chambers. Pressure sensors were also implemented to determine the permeability of biomaterials which allows us to approximate the shear stress conditions. To characterize the flow velocity and shear stress profile of a porous scaffold in both bioreactor chambers, a computational fluid dynamics analysis was performed. Furthermore, the mixing behavior was characterized by acquisition of the residence time distributions. Finally, the effects of the different flow and shear stress profiles of the bioreactor chambers on osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells were evaluated in a proof of concept study. In conclusion, the data from computational fluid dynamics and shear stress calculations were found to be predictable for relative comparison of the bioreactor geometries, but not for final determination of the optimal flow rate. However, we suggest that the system is beneficial for parallel dynamic cultivation of multiple samples for 3D cell culture processes.
NF-κB Members Left Home: NF-κB-Independent Roles in Cancer
Authors: Colomer Carlota , Marruecos Laura , Vert Anna , Bigas Anna , Espinosa Lluis
Published: May 2017

Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) has been long considered a master regulator of inflammation and immune responses. Additionally, aberrant NF-κB signaling has been linked with carcinogenesis in many types of cancer. In recent years, the study of NF-κB members in NF-κB unrelated pathways provided novel attractive targets for cancer therapy, specifically linked to particular pathologic responses. Here we review specific functions of IκB kinase complexes (IKKs) and IκBs, which have distinctly tumor promoting or suppressing activities in cancer. Understanding how these proteins are regulated in a tumor-related context will provide new opportunities for drug development.
Two-Dimensional Zinc Oxide Nanostructures for Gas Sensor Applications
Authors: Leonardi Salvatore
Published: May 2017

Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, due to their unique physical and chemical properties, are showing great potential in catalysis and electronic/optoelectronic devices. Moreover, thanks to the high surface to volume ratio, 2D materials provide a large specific surface area for the adsorption of molecules, making them efficient in chemical sensing applications. ZnO, owing to its many advantages such as high sensitivity, stability, and low cost, has been one of the most investigated materials for gas sensing. Many ZnO nanostructures have been used to fabricate efficient gas sensors for the detection of various hazardous and toxic gases. This review summarizes most of the research articles focused on the investigation of 2D ZnO structures including nanosheets, nanowalls, nanoflakes, nanoplates, nanodisks, and hierarchically assembled nanostructures as a sensitive material for conductometric gas sensors. The synthesis of the materials and the sensing performances such as sensitivity, selectivity, response, and recovery times as well as the main influencing factors are summarized for each work. Moreover, the effect of mainly exposed crystal facets of the nanostructures on sensitivity towards different gases is also discussed.
Placebo by Proxy in Neonatal Randomized Controlled Trials: Does It Matter?
Authors: Burkart Tiziana L. , Kraus Andrea , Koller Brigitte , Natalucci Giancarlo , Latal Beatrice , Fauchère Jean-Claude , Bucher Hans Ulrich , Rüegger Christoph M. , For the Swiss EPO Neuroprotection Trial Group
Published: May 2017

Placebo effects emerging from the expectations of relatives, also known as placebo by proxy, have seldom been explored. The aim of this study was to investigate whether in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) there is a clinically relevant difference in long-term outcome between very preterm infants whose parents assume that verum (PAV) had been administered and very preterm infants whose parents assume that placebo (PAP) had been administered. The difference between the PAV and PAP infants with respect to the primary outcome–IQ at 5 years of age–was considered clinically irrelevant if the confidence interval (CI) for the mean difference resided within our pre-specified ±5-point equivalence margins. When adjusted for the effects of verum/placebo, socioeconomic status (SES), head circumference and sepsis, the CI was [−3.04, 5.67] points in favor of the PAV group. Consequently, our study did not show equivalence between the PAV and PAP groups, with respect to the pre-specified margins of equivalence. Therefore, our findings suggest that there is a small, but clinically irrelevant degree to which a preterm infant’s response to therapy is affected by its parents’ expectations, however, additional large-scale studies are needed to confirm this conjecture.
Water Budget in a Tile Drained Watershed under Future Climate Change Using SWATDRAIN Model
Authors: Golmohammadi Golmar , Rudra Ramesh , Prasher Shiv , Madani Ali , Mohammadi Kourosh , Goel Pradeep , Daggupatti Prasad
Published: May 2017

The SWATDRAIN model was developed by incorporating the subsurface flow model, DRAINMOD, into a watershed scale surface flow model, SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment tool), to simulate the hydrology and water quality of agricultural watersheds. The model is capable of simulating hydrology under different agricultural management and climate scenarios. As an application of the SWATDRAIN model, the impact of climate change on surface/subsurface flow was evaluated in the Canagagigue Creek watershed in southern Ontario, Canada. Using the assumption that there has been no change in land cover and land management, the model was applied to simulate annual, seasonal, and monthly changes in surface and subsurface flows at the outlet of the watershed under current and future climate conditions. The climate scenario under consideration in this study for 2015–2044 was derived from CGCM2 (Canadian Global Circulation Model 2), with A2 scenario for future climatic simulation. The SWATDRAIN model’s ability to predict the impacts of future climate change scenarios in agricultural watersheds due to monthly NSE (Nash Sutcliffe Efficiency), PBIAS (Percent Bias), and RSR (Root Mean Square Error) values of 0.74, 3.67, and 0.37, respectively, for the validation phase. The results showed that general climate change effects more spring and winter hydrology than summer hydrology. The results show that the annual flow is expected to increase in future, which will lead to an increase in the sediment loads in the stream.
Effects of In0.82Ga0.18As/InP Double Buffers Design on the Microstructure of the In0.82G0.18As/InP Heterostructure
Authors: Zhao Liang , Guo Zuoxing , Ding Xiangdong , Li Jingjuan , Yang Shen , Zhang Min , Zhao Lei
Published: May 2017

In order to reduce the dislocation density and improve the performance of high indium content In0.82Ga0.18As films, the design of double buffer layers has been introduced into the In0.82Ga0.18As/InP heterostructure. Compared with other buffer layer structures, we introduce an InP thin layer, which is the same as the substrate, into the In0.82Ga0.18As/InP heterostructure. The epitaxial layers and buffer layers were grown by the low-pressure metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (LP-MOCVD) method. In this study, the surface morphology and microstructures of the heterostructure were investigated by SEM, AFM, XRD and TEM. The residual strains of the In0.82Ga0.18As epitaxial layer in different samples were studied by Raman spectroscopy. The residual strain of the In0.82Ga0.18As epitaxial layer was decreased by designing double buffer layers which included an InP layer; as a result, dislocations in the epitaxial layer were effectively suppressed since the dislocation density was notably reduced. Moreover, the performance of In0.82Ga0.18As films was investigated using the Hall test, and the results are in line with our expectations. By comparing different buffer layer structures, we explained the mechanism of dislocation density reduction by using double buffer layers, which included a thin InP layer.
Automatic Epileptic Seizure Detection in EEG Signals Using Multi-Domain Feature Extraction and Nonlinear Analysis
Authors: Wang Lina , Xue Weining , Li Yang , Luo Meilin , Huang Jie , Cui Weigang , Huang Chao
Published: May 2017

Epileptic seizure detection is commonly implemented by expert clinicians with visual observation of electroencephalography (EEG) signals, which tends to be time consuming and sensitive to bias. The epileptic detection in most previous research suffers from low power and unsuitability for processing large datasets. Therefore, a computerized epileptic seizure detection method is highly required to eradicate the aforementioned problems, expedite epilepsy research and aid medical professionals. In this work, we propose an automatic epilepsy diagnosis framework based on the combination of multi-domain feature extraction and nonlinear analysis of EEG signals. Firstly, EEG signals are pre-processed by using the wavelet threshold method to remove the artifacts. We then extract representative features in the time domain, frequency domain, time-frequency domain and nonlinear analysis features based on the information theory. These features are further extracted in five frequency sub-bands based on the clinical interest, and the dimension of the original feature space is then reduced by using both a principal component analysis and an analysis of variance. Furthermore, the optimal combination of the extracted features is identified and evaluated via different classifiers for the epileptic seizure detection of EEG signals. Finally, the performance of the proposed method is investigated by using a public EEG database at the University Hospital Bonn, Germany. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed epileptic seizure detection method can achieve a high average accuracy of 99.25%, indicating a powerful method in the detection and classification of epileptic seizures. The proposed seizure detection scheme is thus hoped to eliminate the burden of expert clinicians when they are processing a large number of data by visual observation and to speed-up the epilepsy diagnosis.
Glassy States of Aging Social Networks
Authors: Hassanibesheli Foroogh , Hedayatifar Leila , Safdari Hadise , Ausloos Marcel , Jafari G.
Published: May 2017

Individuals often develop reluctance to change their social relations, called “secondary homebody”, even though their interactions with their environment evolve with time. Some memory effect is loosely present deforcing changes. In other words, in the presence of memory, relations do not change easily. In order to investigate some history or memory effect on social networks, we introduce a temporal kernel function into the Heider conventional balance theory, allowing for the “quality” of past relations to contribute to the evolution of the system. This memory effect is shown to lead to the emergence of aged networks, thereby perfectly describing—and what is more, measuring—the aging process of links (“social relations”). It is shown that such a memory does not change the dynamical attractors of the system, but does prolong the time necessary to reach the “balanced states”. The general trend goes toward obtaining either global (“paradise” or “bipolar”) or local (“jammed”) balanced states, but is profoundly affected by aged relations. The resistance of elder links against changes decelerates the evolution of the system and traps it into so named glassy states. In contrast to balance configurations which live on stable states, such long-lived glassy states can survive in unstable states.
Horton Ratios Link Self-Similarity with Maximum Entropy of Eco-Geomorphological Properties in Stream Networks
Authors: Milne Bruce , Gupta Vijay
Published: May 2017

Stream networks are branched structures wherein water and energy move between land and atmosphere, modulated by evapotranspiration and its interaction with the gravitational dissipation of potential energy as runoff. These actions vary among climates characterized by Budyko theory, yet have not been integrated with Horton scaling, the ubiquitous pattern of eco-hydrological variation among Strahler streams that populate river basins. From Budyko theory, we reveal optimum entropy coincident with high biodiversity. Basins on either side of optimum respond in opposite ways to precipitation, which we evaluated for the classic Hubbard Brook experiment in New Hampshire and for the Whitewater River basin in Kansas. We demonstrate that Horton ratios are equivalent to Lagrange multipliers used in the extremum function leading to Shannon information entropy being maximal, subject to constraints. Properties of stream networks vary with constraints and inter-annual variation in water balance that challenge vegetation to match expected resource supply throughout the network. The entropy-Horton framework informs questions of biodiversity, resilience to perturbations in water supply, changes in potential evapotranspiration, and land use changes that move ecosystems away from optimal entropy with concomitant loss of productivity and biodiversity.
Seasonal Thermal-Energy Storage: A Critical Review on BTES Systems, Modeling, and System Design for Higher System Efficiency
Authors: Lanahan Michael , Tabares-Velasco Paulo
Published: May 2017

Buildings consume approximately ¾ of the total electricity generated in the United States, contributing significantly to fossil fuel emissions. Sustainable and renewable energy production can reduce fossil fuel use, but necessitates storage for energy reliability in order to compensate for the intermittency of renewable energy generation. Energy storage is critical for success in developing a sustainable energy grid because it facilitates higher renewable energy penetration by mitigating the gap between energy generation and demand. This review analyzes recent case studies—numerical and field experiments—seen by borehole thermal energy storage (BTES) in space heating and domestic hot water capacities, coupled with solar thermal energy. System design, model development, and working principle(s) are the primary focus of this analysis. A synopsis of the current efforts to effectively model BTES is presented as well. The literature review reveals that: (1) energy storage is most effective when diurnal and seasonal storage are used in conjunction; (2) no established link exists between BTES computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models integrated with whole building energy analysis tools, rather than parameter-fit component models; (3) BTES has less geographical limitations than Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) and lower installation cost scale than hot water tanks and (4) BTES is more often used for heating than for cooling applications.
Effect of Gas Recycling on the Performance of a Moving Bed Temperature-Swing (MBTSA) Process for CO2 Capture in a Coal Fired Power Plant Context
Authors: Mondino Giorgia , Grande Carlos A. , Blom Richard
Published: May 2017

A mathematical model of a continuous moving-bed temperature-swing adsorption (MBTSA) process for post-combustion CO2 capture in a coal-fired power plant context has been developed. Process simulations have been done using single component isotherms and measured gas diffusion parameters of an activated carbon adsorbent. While a simple process configuration with no gas re-circulation gives quite low capture rate and CO2 purity, 86% and 65%, respectively, more advanced process configurations where some of the captured gas is recirculated to the incoming flue gas drastically increase both the capture rate and CO2 purity, the best configuration reaching capture rate of 86% and CO2 purity of 98%. Further improvements can be achieved by using adsorbents with higher CO2/N2 selectivity and/or higher temperature of the regeneration section.
Experimental Study of 3D Movement in Cushioning of Hydraulic Cylinder
Authors: Algar Antonio , Codina Esteban , Freire Javier
Published: May 2017

A double acting cylinder operation has been fully monitored in its key functional parameters, focused on characterization of end-of-stroke cushioning and starting phases. Being the cylinder performance reliant in the piston constructive geometry, the number and location of piston circumferential grooves is a significant parameter affecting the internal cushioning system performance. An eddy current displacement sensor assembled in the piston allows assessment of piston radial displacement inside the cylinder tube, which is directly related with the studied operating phases. Due to such 3D displacements, the piston becomes as an active and self-adjusting element along the functional cycle of the cylinder. Mechanical joints orientation and operating pressure are also relevant parameters affecting piston radial displacement and, thus, the cushioning and starting performance. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) results confirm the observed functional role of the perimeter grooves; the flow and pressure distributions, where develops a significant radial force, are also in accordance with the registered radial displacement.
Review of Fundamental Properties of Gas Hydrates: Breakout Sessions of the International Workshop on Methane Hydrate Research and Development
Authors: Uchida Tsutomu , Kvamme Bjørn , Coffin Richard B. , Tenma Norio , Oyama Ai , Masutani Stephen M.
Published: May 2017

The International Workshop on Methane Hydrate (MH) Research and Development (the Fiery Ice Workshop) began in 2001 with the goal of promoting laboratory and field research collaborations and providing a forum to share new knowledge on MH pertaining to coastal stability, climate change, and energy. Ten workshops have been held over the past 15 years in different countries. Each workshop has included presentations on national programs and policy areas, and new research, along with breakout sessions that focused on current key topics. Two or three concurrent breakout sessions were conducted twice during each workshop. In this paper, we review the breakout sessions on hydrate fundamental properties with the goal of identifying the major accomplishments and changes in hydrate science and engineering related to determining fundamental MH properties over the past 15 years.
Comparison of Liquid Water Dynamics in Bent Gas Channels of a Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell with Different Channel Cross Sections in a Channel Flooding Situation
Authors: Kim Jin Hyun , Lee Gwang Goo , Kim Woo Tae
Published: May 2017

The transport characteristics of water slugs in a bent gas channel of a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell are numerically studied using the volume of fluid (VOF) method. To investigate the effects of channel cross-sectional shape in a channel flooding situation, the gas channels (GCs) with one rectangular and two trapezoidal cross sections are compared. Parametric studies are also conducted to evaluate the effects of the contact angle of the top and side walls, the contact angle of the gas diffusion layer (GDL) surface, and the air inlet velocity. Considering both of the water volume fraction (WVF) and GDL water coverage ratio (WCR), the trapezoidal channel with open angles of 60 degrees provides the most favorable performance in a channel flooding condition. Among all the top and side wall contact angles considered, the hydrophobic contact angle of 120 degrees shows the best results. Among the three GDL contact angles of 90, 110 and 140 degrees, the hydrophobic GDL contact angle of 140 degrees provides the most favorable water removal characteristics in a channel flooding situation. For all cross-sectional shapes, the water removal rate increases and the liquid water interface shows more complex patterns as the air inlet velocity increases.
Effect of Gas Velocity Distribution on Heat Recovery Process in Packed Bed of Plate-Shaped Slag
Authors: Shigaki Nobuyuki , Ozawa Sumito , Sumi Ikuhiro
Published: May 2017

A new twin-roll continuous slag solidification process and heat recovery process from a slag packed bed was developed for utilization of the waste heat of steelmaking slag. Plate-shaped slag with the thickness about 7 mm was successfully produced in a pilot plant, and the sensible heat of the slag was recovered by blowing air into the slag chamber. However, the gas distribution inside the slag packed bed was unclear because of the unique shape of the slag plates, and this remained a concern for further scale-up designing of the slag chamber. Therefore, in order to estimate the gas distribution in the packed bed, a simple computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model which considers the wall effect around the inner wall of the chamber was developed, and this model was fitted to the results of laboratory-scale velocity distribution measurements. The results showed that the gas velocity distribution was properly estimated, and the intensity of the wall effect was similar in both cases. As the next step, the gas velocity distribution and its effect on the slag heat recovery process in a pilot-scale slag chamber were evaluated with the assistance of the CFD simulation model. The simulation results were compared with the measured data obtained in a pilot-scale test, and as the result, a similar wall effect was also observed in the pilot-scale chamber. However, the intensity of the wall effect was limited enough to prevent serious deterioration of the uniformity of the gas distribution.
Modified Synchronous Reference Frame Based Shunt Active Power Filter with Fuzzy Logic Control Pulse Width Modulation Inverter
Authors: Musa Suleiman , Radzi Mohd , Hizam Hashim , Wahab Noor , Hoon Yap , Zainuri Muhammad
Published: May 2017

Harmonic distortion in power networks has greatly reduced power quality and this affects system stability. In order to mitigate this power quality issue, the shunt active power filter (SAPF) has been widely applied and it is proven to be the best solution to current harmonics. This paper evaluates the performance of the modified synchronous reference frame extraction (MSRF) algorithm with fuzzy logic controller (FLC) based current control pulse width modulation (PWM) inverter of three-phase three-wire SAPF to mitigate current harmonics. The proposed FLC is designed with a reduced amount of membership functions (MFs) and rules, and thus significantly reduces the computational time and memory size. Modeling and simulations of SAPF are carried out using MATLAB/Simulink R2012a with the power system toolbox under steady-state condition, and this is followed with hardware implementation using a TMS320F28335 digital signal processor (DSP), Specrum Digital Inc., Stafford, TX, USA. The results obtained demonstrate a good and satisfactory response to mitigate the harmonics in the system. The total harmonic distortion (THD) for the system has been reduced from 25.60% to 0.92% and 1.41% in the simulation study with and without FLC, respectively. Similarly for the experimental study, the SAPF can compensate for the three-phase load current by reducing THD to 5.07% and 7.4% with and without FLC, respectively.
Anisotropic Wave Turbulence for Reduced Hydrodynamics with Rotationally Constrained Slow Inertial Waves
Authors: Sen Amrik
Published: May 2017

Kinetic equations for rapidly rotating flows are developed in this paper using multiple scales perturbation theory. The governing equations are an asymptotically reduced set of equations that are derived from the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations. These equations are applicable for rapidly rotating flow regimes and are best suited to describe anisotropic dynamics of rotating flows. The independent variables of these equations inherently reside in a helical wave basis that is the most suitable basis for inertial waves. A coupled system of equations for the two global invariants: energy and helicity, is derived by extending a simpler symmetrical system to the more general non-symmetrical helical case. This approach of deriving the kinetic equations for helicity follows naturally by exploiting the symmetries in the system and is different from the derivations presented in an earlier weak wave turbulence approach that uses multiple correlation functions to account for the asymmetry due to helicity. Stationary solutions, including Kolmogorov solutions, for the flow invariants are obtained as a scaling law of the anisotropic wave numbers. The scaling law solutions compare affirmatively with results from recent experimental and simulation data. Thus, anisotropic wave turbulence of the reduced hydrodynamic system is a weak turbulence model for strong anisotropy with a dominant k ⊥ cascade where the waves aid the turbulent cascade along the perpendicular modes. The waves also enable an appropriate closure of the kinetic equation through averaging of their phases.
Investigation of Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) on Mechanical Properties of Cold Water Fish Gelatin Biodegradable Edible Films
Authors: Tabari Mahsa
Published: May 2017

The tendency to use biocompatible packages, such as biodegradable films, is growing since they contain natural materials, are recyclable and do not cause environmental pollution. In this research, cold water fish gelatin and carboxymethyl cellulose were combined for use in edible films. Due to its unique properties, gelatin is widely used in creating gel, and in restructuring, stabilizing, emulsifying, and forming foam and film in food industries. This research for the first time modified and improved the mechanical properties of cold water fish gelatin films in combination with carboxymethyl cellulose. Cold water fish gelatin films along with carboxymethyl cellulose with concentrations of 0%, 5%, 10%, 20% and 50% were prepared using the casting method. The mechanical properties were tested by the American National Standard Method. Studying the absorption isotherm of the resulting composite films specified that the humidity of single-layer water decreased (p < 0.05) and caused a reduction in the equilibrium moisture of these films. In the mechanical testing of the composite films, the tensile strength and Young’s modulus significantly increased and the elongation percent significantly decreased with the increase in the concentration of carboxymethyl cellulose. Considering the biodegradability of the films and the improvement of their mechanical properties by carboxymethyl cellulose, this kind of packaging can be used in different industries, especially the food industry, as an edible coating for packaging food and agricultural crops.
Perception of Organic Food Consumption in Romania
Authors: Petrescu Anca , Oncioiu Ionica , Petrescu Marius
Published: May 2017

This study provides insight into the attitude of Romanian consumers towards organic food. Furthermore, it examines the sustainable food production system in Romania from the perspective of consumer behavior. This study used a mathematical model of linear regression with the main purpose being to determine the best prediction for the dependent variable when given a number of new values for the independent variable. This empirical research is based on a survey with a sample of 672 consumers, which uses a questionnaire to analyze their intentions towards sustainable food products. The results indicate that a more positive attitude of consumers towards organic food products will further strengthen their purchasing intentions, while the status of the consumption of organic consumers will not affect their willingness to purchase organic food products. Statistics have shown that sustainable food consumption is beneficial for health, so it can also become a profitable business in Romania. Furthermore, food sustainability in Romania depends on the ability of an organic food business to adapt to the new requirements of green consumption.
A Left and Right Truncated Schechter Luminosity Function for Quasars
Authors: Zaninetti Lorenzo
Published: May 2017

The luminosity function for quasars (QSOs) is usually fitted by a Schechter function. The dependence of the number of quasars on the redshift, both in the low and high luminosity regions, requires the inclusion of a lower and upper boundary in the Schechter function. The normalization of the truncated Schechter function is forced to be the same as that for the Schechter function, and an analytical form for the average value is derived. Three astrophysical applications for QSOs are provided: deduction of the parameters at low redshifts, behavior of the average absolute magnitude at high redshifts, and the location (in redshift) of the photometric maximum as a function of the selected apparent magnitude. The truncated Schechter function with the double power law and an improved Schechter function are compared as luminosity functions for QSOs. The chosen cosmological framework is that of the flat cosmology, for which we provided the luminosity distance, the inverse relation for the luminosity distance, and the distance modulus.
The SLUGGS Survey: Understanding Lenticular Galaxy Formation via Extended Stellar Kinematics
Authors: Bellstedt Sabine
Published: May 2017

We present the latest published and preliminary results from the SLUGGS Survey discussing the formation of lenticular galaxies through analysis of their kinematics. These include a comparison of the measured stellar spin of low-mass lenticular galaxies to the spin of remnant galaxies formed by binary merger simulations to assess whether a merger is a likely formation mechanism for these galaxies. We determine that while a portion of lenticular galaxies have properties consistent with these remnants, others are not, indicating that they are likely “faded spirals”. We also present a modified version of the spin–ellipticity diagram, which utilises radial tracks to be able to identify galaxies with intermediate-scale discs. Such galaxies often have conflicting morphological classifications, depending on whether photometric or kinematic measurements are used. Finally, we present preliminary results on the total mass density profile slopes of lenticular galaxies to assess trends as lower stellar masses are probed.
One Message Leading to Another
Authors: Berger John
Published: May 2017

The wonderful American poet, Adrienne Rich, pointed out in a recent lecture that: “This year a report from the Bureau of Justice Statistics finds that 1 out of every 136 residents of the United States is behind bars—many in jails, unconvicted.”[...]
Horticultural Loss Generated by Wholesalers: A Case Study of the Canning Vale Fruit and Vegetable Markets in Western Australia
Authors: Ghosh Purabi , Fawcett Derek , Perera Devindri , Sharma Shashi , Poinern Gerrard
Published: May 2017

In today’s economic climate, businesses need to efficiently manage their finite resources to maintain long-term sustainable growth, productivity, and profits. However, food loss produces large unacceptable economic losses, environmental degradation, and impacts on humanity globally. Its cost in Australia is estimated to be around AUS$8 billion each year, but knowledge of its extent within the food value chain from farm to fork is very limited. The present study examines food loss by wholesalers. A survey questionnaire was prepared and distributed; 35 wholesalers and processors replied and their responses to 10 targeted questions on produce volumes, amounts handled, reasons for food loss, and innovations applied or being considered to reduce and utilize food loss were analyzed. Reported food loss was estimated to be 180 kg per week per primary wholesaler and 30 kg per secondary wholesaler, or around 286 tonnes per year. Participants ranked “over supply” and “no market demand” as the main causes for food loss. The study found that improving grading guidelines has the potential to significantly reduce food loss levels and improve profit margins.
Measuring Blue Space Visibility and ‘Blue Recreation’ in the Everyday Lives of Children in a Capital City
Authors: Pearson Amber , Bottomley Ross , Chambers Tim , Thornton Lukar , Stanley James , Smith Moira , Barr Michelle , Signal Louise
Published: May 2017

Blue spaces (water bodies) may promote positive mental and physical health through opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and social connections. However, we know little about the nature and extent of everyday exposure to blue spaces, particularly in settings outside the home or among children, nor whether exposure varies by individual or household characteristics. Wearable cameras offer a novel, reliable method for blue space exposure measurement. In this study, we used images from cameras worn over two days by 166 children in Wellington, New Zealand, and conducted content and blue space quantification analysis on each image (n = 749,389). Blue space was identified in 24,721 images (3.6%), with a total of 23 blue recreation events. Visual exposure and participation in blue recreation did not differ by ethnicity, weight status, household deprivation, or residential proximity to the coastline. Significant differences in both visual exposure to blue space and participation in blue recreation were observed, whereby children from the most deprived schools had significantly higher rates of blue space exposure than children from low deprivation schools. Schools may be important settings to promote equitable blue space exposures. Childhood exposures to blue space may not follow the expected income inequality trends observed among adults.
Evaluation of the Dietary Intake of Cadmium, Lead and Mercury and Its Relationship with Bone Health among Postmenopausal Women in Spain
Authors: Puerto-Parejo Luis , Aliaga Ignacio , Canal-Macias María , Leal-Hernandez Olga , Roncero-Martín Raul , Rico-Martín Sergio , Moran Jose
Published: May 2017

Background: Heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium, and mercury, are absorbed through contaminated food sources and water. Few studies have investigated the extent to which dietary heavy metals are associated with low bone mineral density. Aims: We aimed to characterize the dietary intake of the heavy metals lead, cadmium and mercury among healthy, non-smoking postmenopausal women in Spain. Furthermore, we sought to establish a putative relationship between bone health and the intake of these heavy metals in this population. Study Design: The daily intake of the heavy metals considered for the different food groups was calculated by accounting for food content and consumption in 281 postmenopausal women. Bone measurements were performed using a Quantitative Bone Ultrasound (QUS), a Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) and a Peripheral Quantitative Computed Tomography (pQCT). Results: The average estimated dietary cadmium exposure among the 281 women studied was 29.87 μg/day (20.41–41.04) and 3.03 μg/kg body weight (b.w.; 2.17–4.40). Dietary lead exposure was 46.24 μg/day (38.11–54.77) and 4.87 μg/kg b.w. (4.00–6.14). The estimated dietary mercury exposure was 11.64 μg/day and 1.19 μg/kg b.w. (0.82–1.76). Participants were classified according to their heavy metal intake (above or below the respective medians). After further adjustment for potential confounding factors, no significant differences were found in all the measured parameters (p > 0.05). Conclusions: We did not find associations between bone health and the dietary intake of three heavy metals in postmenopausal women. Dietary intake of the measured heavy metals were within the recommended values.
An Efficient Vector-Raster Overlay Algorithm for High-Accuracy and High-Efficiency Surface Area Calculations of Irregularly Shaped Land Use Patches
Authors: Xie Peng , Liu Yaolin , He Qingsong , Zhao Xiang , Yang Jun
Published: May 2017

The Earth’s surface is uneven, and conventional area calculation methods are based on the assumption that the projection plane area can be obtained without considering the actual undulation of the Earth’s surface and by simplifying the Earth’s shape to be a standard ellipsoid. However, the true surface area is important for investigating and evaluating land resources. In this study, the authors propose a new method based on an efficient vector-raster overlay algorithm (VROA-based method) to calculate the surface areas of irregularly shaped land use patches. In this method, a surface area raster file is first generated based on the raster-based digital elevation model (raster-based DEM). Then, a vector-raster overlay algorithm (VROA) is used that considers the precise clipping of raster cells using the vector polygon boundary. Xiantao City, Luotian County, and the Shennongjia Forestry District, which are representative of a plain landform, a hilly topography, and a mountain landscape, respectively, are selected to calculate the surface area. Compared with a traditional method based on triangulated irregular networks (TIN-based method), our method significantly reduces the processing time. In addition, our method effectively improves the accuracy compared with another traditional method based on raster-based DEM (raster-based method). Therefore, the method satisfies the requirements of large-scale engineering applications.
Is There a Role for Genomics in the Management of Hypertension?
Authors: Burrello Jacopo , Monticone Silvia , Buffolo Fabrizio , Tetti Martina , Veglio Franco , Williams Tracy , Mulatero Paolo
Published: May 2017

Hypertension (HTN) affects about 1 billion people worldwide and the lack of a single identifiable cause complicates its treatment. Blood pressure (BP) levels are influenced by environmental factors, but there is a strong genetic component. Linkage analysis has identified several genes involved in Mendelian forms of HTN and the associated pathophysiological mechanisms have been unravelled, leading to targeted therapies. The majority of these syndromes are due to gain-of-function or loss-of-functions mutations, resulting in an alteration of mineralocorticoid, glucocorticoid, or sympathetic pathways. The diagnosis of monogenic forms of HTN has limited practical implications on the population and a systematic genetic screening is not justifiable. Genome-wide linkage and association studies (GWAS) have identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which influence BP. Forty-three variants have been described with each SNP affecting systolic and diastolic BP by 1.0 and 0.5 mmHg, respectively. Taken together Mendelian inheritance and all GWAS-identified HTN-associated variants explain 2–3% of BP variance. Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, histone modification and non-coding RNAs, have become increasingly recognized as important players in BP regulation and may justify a further part of missing heritability. In this review, we will discuss how genetics and genomics may assist clinicians in managing patients with HTN.