bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Democracia e fundamentalismo político-religioso
Authors: Souza José Neivaldo
Published: July 2017

O objetivo deste ensaio é refletir, a partir da crise política e econômica vivida no Brasil, sobre o problema da democracia e o uso corrente que se faz deste termo a fim de justificar uma ideologia elitista e conservadora. Em primeiro lugar, pensar a democracia face aos desafios da política brasileira. Em segundo lugar, o quanto o fundamentalismo religioso se aproveita deste momento para se engajar no poder. E por último, abordar o tripé do fundamentalismo político-religioso, revelando sua força diante da opinião popular. Algumas referências ajudarão a pensar este momento, em particular o texto de Norberto Bobbio sobre Qual democracia?
O papel de transformação social da igreja angolana pós-guerra civil
Authors: Sebastião José Afonso , Kilpp Nelson
Published: July 2017

: O presente artigo tem como objetivo refletir sobre o papel da igreja angolana na transformação social do país em um contexto de pós-guerra civil (2002 ao atual momento). O conflito armado assolou o país por quase 30 anos. Em 1961, teve início a guerra de libertação colonial, que terminou em 1974. Na sequência, três movimentos entraram em choque pelo controle do país, dando início, assim, a uma terrível guerra civil que teve seu término em 2002. O artigo está dividido em 3 partes. Na primeira apresentamos de maneira sucinta as raízes e as consequências do conflito armado e os desafios sociais no pós-guerra. Analisamos também a postura da igreja no período de guerra. Na segunda parte falamos sobre o papel da igreja em um contexto de pós-guerra. Para tal, utilizamos o conceito de diaconia como ação transformadora, seu caráter prático e a relação existente entre diaconia, missão e ação social. Por fim, apresentamos a diaconia em Jesus, enfatizando dois aspectos: sua dimensão profética e curadora, no intuito de propor o papel da igreja angolana no pós-guerra.
Protestantes na Atenas Sergipana: a inserção do protestantismo em Laranjeiras (SE) no século XIX
Authors: Costa Gicélia Santos
Published: July 2017

O presente artigo recupera alguns detalhes da inserção do protestantismo na cidade de Laranjeiras (SE), na segunda metade do século XIX, a reação da sociedade laranjeirense à fé reformada, o antagonismo religioso existente entre católicos e protestantes registrados nos jornais da época e o impacto social causado pelo protestantismo em Sergipe. O artigo está dividido em subitens. O primeiro fala sobre Laranjeiras, como a “Atenas Sergipana”, cenário da propagação das ideias republicanas e dos homens cultos na sociedade da época, que lutavam pelo fim da monarquia e contribuíram para que Laranjeiras recebesse esse título. O segundo faz um breve relato sobre a chegada do presbiterianismo no Brasil e posteriormente em Laranjeiras. O terceiro enfatiza os conflitos entre católicos e protestantes nos jornais ‘O Horizonte”, “O Laranjeirense” e “O Republicano”.
Diversidade cultural e religiosa: o ensino religioso e as religiões de matrizes africanas na educação escolar
Authors: Custódio Elivaldo Serrão
Published: July 2017

O presente artigo objetiva refletir sobre a diversidade cultural e religiosa na educação escolar enquanto desafio para uma educação inclusiva. A educação escolar, vista pelo viés da diversidade cultural, torna-se um desafio na atualidade brasileira, pois ela será obrigada a fazer o exercício de rever os seus caminhos, refletindo como ensina e o que ensina. O presente trabalho trata do resultado de um estudo exploratório de natureza qualitativa que adotou a pesquisa bibliográfica, a análise documental e a entrevista como forma de investigação. Os resultados apontam que na literatura contemporânea as Religiões de Matrizes Africanas (RMA) encontram-se instaladas no espaço brasileiro, apresentando-se como religiões estruturalmente organizadas, com crenças e ritos, portanto, possuidoras de fenômenos religiosos. Acreditamos que sem a valorização e o respeito às RMA na disciplina de Ensino Religioso (ER) e no Ensino da Cultura e História da África e dos Afro-brasileiros não prevalecerá o dispositivo legal na preservação e valorização da cultura. O Brasil é um país rico na sua diversidade cultural e religiosa. É de responsabilidade do Estado à elaboração de diretrizes para definição de uma política pública voltada para a educação na perspectiva da diversidade, assim como uma política educacional voltada para a proteção das RMA como patrimônio cultural.
A Moralidade Bíblica
Authors: De Oliveira Ricardo Mendes
Published: July 2017

Esse estudo se dedicou à origem do bem e do mal na Bíblia. Com o intuito dedesmistificar a moralidade bíblica, foram utilizadas fontes literárias e históricas que remontama esse documento. As histórias nela contida foram comparadas às histórias pagãs. Utilizou-sea Bíblia e a obra Paradise Lost de John Milton, para um paralelo entre o Deus existente nessas duas obras. O resultado foi que Deus mente e é complacente com a mentira, então a  moralidade da Bíblia é mito
Generalized geographical analysis of a set of priority measures to eliminate accumulated environmental damage
Authors: Kravets E.A.
Published: July 2017

The author made testing of cartographic method of analysing regulatory documents. Schematic cartographic mapping and analysis of the planned priority measures for the elimination of accumulated environmental damage were done in this article. Classification of the original normative legal act was used. Limitations of accuracy represented by the cartographic material was specified. Local and substantial gaps in the list of relevant environmental measures were identified and classified on the basis of the analysis performed by the map-scheme. Ways compensation this data lack on the basis of the available industrial structure of these regions of the Russian Federation are scheduled. An indicative list of current and closed industrial enterprises is presented, which can be a true implementation of measures to eliminate accumulated environmental damage. Increasing the availability of more detailed and accurate information about the state of the environment and impacts will enable more precise mapping of environmental problems and details to design their solutions.
Free cash flow and earnings management: board of commissioner, board independence and audit quality
Authors: Susanto Yulius Kurnia , Pradipta Arya , Djashan Indra Arifin
Published: July 2017

The purpose of the research is to provide empirical evidence about the effect of board of commissioner, board independence and audit quality on relationship between free cash flow and earnings management. This research used 290 data from manufacturing companies listed in Indonesia Stock Exchange, selected using purposive sampling method, during 2012 until 2014. Earnings management calculated using Modified Jones (1991) Model include ROA from Kothari et al. (2005). Data for the research were analyzed using multiple regression analysis. The results of the research showed that the effect of board of commissioner, board independence and audit quality on relationship between free cash flow and earnings management is negative and significant. Board of commissioners, board independence and audit quality can reduce earnings management problems arising from free cash flow. Board of commissioners, board independence and audit quality oversee the opportunistic behavior of managers that arises from free cash flow problem.
The application of a risk measurement tool in Greek public sector
Authors: Eleftheriadis Iordanis M. , Vyttas Vasilios
Published: July 2017

The present research aims to apply a valid and reliable tool (questionnaire) and examine how that can be used by Greek state organizations, in order to measure economic and operational. The methodology adopted in this research is the quantitative one, which will be based on the collection of primary data through a questionnaire. The research results showed that the measurement tool selected, applied, presented and proposed in this essay comprises three (3) scales: The economic risk scale, which consisted from fifteen items and the operational risk measurement scale, both present and future, which contained seventeen items. The concurrent and predictive validity analysis has shown that the economic risk scale and the present operational risk scale are useful tools for management risk issues. The study’s academic contribution was the application of the aforementioned measurement instruments, which can now be utilised by researchers in the field of risk management to further advance the study of risk management in public organizations in Greece. On the empirical level, the implementation of these two scales can assist public organizations in Greece in assessing economic and operational risks easily and fast. This tool can help public organizations in Greece gain insight into the level of risk they face at any given point in time and plan their actions accordingly. At the same time, central state administration in Greece will have the necessary tools to monitor and support the organizations it evaluates.
Crítica a la autoridad burocrática en Tras la virtud: MacIntyre contra Weber y con Weber
Authors: Serrano del Pozo Ignacio A.
Published: July 2017

Recibido: 27/04/2016 • Aceptado: 02/02/2017

 

Tras la virtud contiene una poderosa crítica a la autoridad burocrática o gerencial de base weberiana. En ella Alasdair MacIntyre ataca el carácter ficticio de los dos atributos que poseería esta forma de dominación: la eficacia organizativa y la predictibilidad de sus resultados. El objetivo de este trabajo es mostrar que la «autoridad burocrática» es la principal ideología de dominación del tiempo presente detectada por MacIntyre. Sin embargo, lejos de implicar esta postura un distanciamiento de las tesis weberianas, nuestra intención es demostrar que buena parte de los análisis que realiza el sociólogo alemán le servirán a MacIntyre para perfilar –por oposición– su idea de virtud moral, centrada en la excelencia de las prácticas y en el carácter narrativo de la vida.

 
Reseña de Paulina Rivero Weber, Coord. 2016. Nietzsche: el desafío del pensamiento. México: FCE, 217 pp.
Authors: Coronel Piña Víctor Ignacio
Published: July 2017

Reseña de Paulina Rivero Weber, Coord. 2016. Nietzsche: el desafío del pensamiento. México: FCE, 217 pp.
Analytical approach to the design of a high-force density double-sided linear switched reluctance motor
Authors: J. Garcia Amorós  , P. Andrada
Published: July 2017

This paper presents an analytical approach to the design of a high–force density double-sided linear switched reluctance motor (LSRM). The design is based on an analytical formulation of the average propulsion force determined using the non-linear energy conversion loop, in which the unaligned magnetization curve is assumed to be a straight line and the aligned magnetization curve is represented by two straight lines. The main dimensions of the LSRM are determined in accordance with the machine requirements, the proposed average propulsion force formula and the geometrical relationships that were presented in a previous paper. The present paper uses two dimensional finite element analysis that has been corrected to take into account the end effects in order to refine and/or to validate the proposed design. Finally an LSRM prototype was built following the proposed design and was verified by experimental measurements.
Renewable energy systems: Industrial and home best practise case studies
Authors: Victor Nabais  , Pedro Dinis Gaspar  , João Matias
Published: July 2017

The use of renewable energies and energy
efficiency improvement systems is sometimes constrained by
the investment needed for devices and its installation. However,
governments have developed policies to reduce the initial costs
to end-users. The increasing number of renewable energy
systems can help in the reduction of the global dependency on
fossil energy sources, and simultaneously can help to ensure
that the carbon dioxide emissions quota is not exceeded, aiming
a reduction of the green-house effect. In this sense, this paper
presents two best practise case studies. One of them is in the
industrial context and other in the residence context, concerning
the use of renewable energy systems and energy efficiency
improvement strategies. The best practice case study in
industrial context involves the renewable energy systems design
in an automotive sector factory, making use of solar thermal
panels and energy efficiency measures. The non-industrial case
study covers the analysis of the energy efficiency improvement
using a thermal energy recovery system from hot water used in
daily baths or showers. The direct benefits (savings) and
indirect (impacts) are analysed for both case studies.
New Tools for Easing System Integration, Deployment, Monitoring and Maintenance of Ocean Energy Devices
Authors: E. Omerdic  , D. Toal  , P. Finn
Published: July 2017

This  paper  describes  a  set  of  novel  aiding  tools and     technologies     for     system     integration,     deployment, monitoring and maintenance of ocean energy devices. The main component  of  the  system  is  smart  remotely  operated  vehicle ROVLATIS–  a  novel,  multi-mode  of  operation  marine  robotics vehicle,  developed  at  Mobile  &  Marine  Robotics  Research Centre   (MMRRC),   UL   for   operational   flexibility   in   high-resolution  near  seabed  survey  from  shallow  inshore  waters  out to  the  continental  shelf  edge.  The  assistive  visualisation  and control  tools,  proposed  in  this  paper,  allow  operators  to  have better  situation  awareness  and  enhanced  vehicle  control  in presence of disturbances. Flexible design of these tools enables their  use  as  separate  modules,  as  well  as  their  integration  into unique  system.  Ocean  energy  technologies  play  an  important part  in  meeting  target  that  third of  Irish  electricity  is  generated from renewable sources by 2020. Proposed assistive tools could help  developers  of  ocean  energy  devices  in  meeting  this  target during different stages of design, deployment and operation.
Effect of Biodiesel blending on emissions and efficiency in a stationary diesel engine
Authors: S. Oberweis  , T.T Al-Shemmeri
Published: July 2017

This paper presents an investigation into the
effect of biodiesel blending on emissions and efficiency in a
non road diesel engine. Rapeseed based biodiesel blended in
increments of 25% with fossil diesel. The emissions of CO2
show a decrease in emission (g/kWh) with increased engine
load. Within the range of tests carried out, the NOx emissions
from biodiesel and its blends proved to be higher than those of
petro-diesel fuel. Furthermore, in this study a correlation was
found relating the NOx emissions and the flame temperature.
The efficiency of the system is improved with increased
biodiesel content in the fuel. As predicted the results for CHP
show a considerable improvement to the overall efficiency.
Study Case of Optimization Analysis on Energy-saving in Paper Mill Power-Heat System
Authors: Huanbin Liu  , Jinsong Tao  , Jigeng Li  , Yongjun Yin  , Yanming Zhou  , Jinjiang Jia
Published: July 2017

According the characteristics of both steam and
power was supplied in paper mill power plant， the optimal
running model of the coal-fired power-heat system was
researched in this paper. The power plant’s physical structure
was researched, the superstructure was established and the
boiler and turbine running model was analyzed. With the help
of mathematical programming, each turbine unit optimal loads
were obtained when the same power and steam were produced,
moreover, the minimum coal cost were calculated with each
boiler unit optimal load distribution. The case study of one
paper mill showed that the optimization model was helpful and
the coal consumption can decrease 4.7% aiding with the model
WIND ENERGY-GRID STABILIZATION USING A DYNAMIC FILTER COMPENSATOR
Authors: Mohamed A. El-Sayed  , Adel M. Sharaf
Published: July 2017

Economic  electric  energy  generation  using  wind  energy production  has  been  rapidly  growing  for  the  last  three decades.  However,  the  integration  of  a  large  wind  scheme can  pose  inherent  voltage  instability  and  power  quality problems.   The   paper   presents   the   impact   of   a   Novel Dynamic  FACTS  Compensator  Scheme  DFCS  developed by  the  Second  Author  on  voltage  level  stabilization  and power quality  enhancement of  Wind-Grid connected  green energy   system.   The   Wind   Energy   Conversion   System comprises   four   key   parts.   The   wind   farm,   induction generator  and  DFCS  scheme  and  the  novel  Multi  loop dynamic  error  driven  coordinated  controller    developed  by the  second  Author  to  ensure  voltage  stabilization,  power quality  enhancement  and  minimal  inrush  transients  and excursions    under    normal    operation    ,    wind    velocity excursions  and  hybrid  motorized-linear  –nonlinear  load disturbances.  The integrated wind-grid scheme with four subsystems has been  digitally  simulated  using  the  Matlab  Simulink/Sim-Power  software  environment.    The  DFCS  scheme  with  the coordinated    dynamic    error    driven    hybrid    controller developed   was   fully   validated.   The   digital   simulation results  have  indicated  that  the  novel  new  DFCS  Filter Architecture   and   Multi   loop   controller   did      maintain voltage  stabilization,  enhance  power  quality  and  improve energy utilization.
Design of modelling and online simulation for energy systems in papermaking mill
Authors: Yan-Ming Zhou  , Ji-Geng Li  , Jin-Song Tao  , Yong-Jun Yin  , Huan-Bin Liu
Published: July 2017

This paper presents a general framework of
modelling and online simulation for papermaking mill’s energy
systems. The energy flow models of thermal power plant, DIP
and paper machine for a papermaking mill was designed and
implemented an online simulation. The traditional offline,
closed and scattered modelling and simulation methods were
changed into online, open and integrated forms. Through the
analysis of energy systems of papermaking mills, the
framework has implemented the followings. The unit
(equipment) models were established, it can analyse the energy
of energy flow material. The corresponding material flow
models library was developed. The craftwork models were
designed and the energy flow models library was developed of
thermal power plant, DIP and paper machine. The mathematical
models of unit (equipment), energy flow, exergy flow, thermal
power plant, DIP and paper machine were built. The material
properties database was developed. General simulation software
architecture and online simulation software architecture were
designed. The framework implemented online simulation,
analysis, diagnosis and optimization for energy systems of
whole papermaking mill. The practical application results are
fine when the framework was applied in Guangzhou Paper
Group Co., Ltd., and Gold East Paper (Jiangsu) Co., Ltd. The
practical application results indicate that the emulation,
simulation, analysis, diagnosis and optimization of material
flow and energy flow for papermaking mill whole production
process can be implemented by online simulation, and the
purposes of maximizing the utility efficiency of material and
energy resource, reducing resource, reusing and recycling can
be achieved.
Two axis solar tracker based on solar maps, controlled by a low-power microcontroller
Authors: Francisco Duarte  , Pedro Dinis Gaspar  , Luís Carrilho Gonçalves
Published: July 2017

There are actually several solutions for two axis
solar tracking systems using electromechanical devices, in
which a controller detects the Sun apparent position, and
controls the position of the structure supporting the panels
toward the sun by enabling the engines movement. This work
studies the solution of two axis solar tracking system based on
solar maps, which can predict the exact apparent position of the
Sun, by the latitude's location, thereby avoiding the need to use
sensors or guidance systems. To accomplish this, it is used a
low-power microcontroller, suitably programmed, to control
two electric motors to ensure that the panels supporting
structure is always oriented towards the sun.
Distributed Voltage Control Strategies in a LV Distribution Network
Authors: R. D’hulst  , E. Peeters
Published: July 2017

As the amount of locally installed distributed
generation is increasing rapidly, voltage quality problems begin
to arise in the LV distribution network. Particularly the
introduction of large amounts of distributed generation may
cause an excessive voltage rise on a distribution feeder violating
the voltage limitations. PV installations specifically are found
to trip on days with high solar irradiance and low load. New
standards for the connection of locally installed generators to
the LV distribution grid will have to be developed in order to
enable the large scale implementation of distributed generation
in the LV distribution grid, and to avoid unwanted tripping of
the locally installed generation units.
In this paper, different voltage control mechanisms are
discussed and compared in terms of grid losses and profitability
of the installed generation for a typical Belgian distribution
network topology.
Design of a PFC rectifier with fast start up response and low input current distortion
Authors: A. Amirahmadi  , A. Dastfan  , S. M. R. Rafiei
Published: July 2017

For a PFC rectifier, normally designing of the PI compensator is based on the frequency domain model which is derived  from  the  dynamic  model  of  the  rectifier,  so  it  cannot  guarantee  a  fast  start  up  response.  As  the  high  input  current  quality and fast start up response are conflicting objectives and with improving one of them, another is degraded, for designing a  PI  controller  which  can  provide  both  of  them,  a  Multi-Objective  optimization  approach  can  be  implemented.    In  this  paper,   for   the   first   time,   Strength   Pareto   Evolutionary   Algorithm which is based on Pareto Optimality concept is used to  gain  a  fast  start  up  response  as  well  as  low  input  current  distortion.  In  order  to  validate  the  proposed  PI  controller,  simulation results are presented.
Analysis of Active Islanding Methods for Single phase Inverters
Authors: C. L. Trujillo  , D. Velasco  , G. Garcerá  , E. Figueres  , O. Carranza
Published: July 2017

This paper presents the analysis and comparison
of the main active techniques for islanding detection used in
grid-connected single phase inverters. These techniques can be
divided into two classes: techniques introducing positive
feedback in the control of the inverter and techniques based on
harmonic injection by the inverter. The algorithms mentioned in
this work are simulated in PSIMTM in order to make a
comparative analysis and to establish their advantages and
disadvantages according to IEEE standards.
Planning biomass energy production in a farming area
Authors: G. Fiorese  , E. Cozzolino  , G. Guariso  , G. Paris
Published: July 2017

A thorough analysis of biomass supply and of
energy demand should be carried out at local scale in order to
optimize bioenergy plans and deal with the related social ad
environmental issues. We present a method to identify the
optimal use of biomass: local biomass availability is assessed,
the road network is used to evaluate transportation costs, and
different energy conversion technologies are considered.
Energy crops and animal slurries are considered as feedstocks.
We also estimate the amount of land available for energy crops,
given the current land use. The comparison between possible
conversion systems is carried out solving an optimization
problem for the net energy produced in the system, accounting
for energy needs for biomass cultivation, collection, and
transportation. An emissive indicator is used to evaluate the
amount of carbon equivalent emissions avoided. The economic
performance of the systems is also analysed. The method is
applied to the province of Ravenna in Italy. Transport and
cultivation energy and emissions are much smaller than the
energy produced or the emissions avoided. The biomass
transformation chain can indeed provide 1.9-3.3% of the
present power consumption and may reduce GHG emissions by
1-3.5% by replacing fossil fuels.
Increased Penetration of Renewable Energy using Demand Side Management: Immersion Heater Analysis
Authors: P. Finn  , C. Fitzpatrick  , M. Leahy  , L. Relihan
Published: July 2017

This paper examines the potential for Demand
Side Management and Dynamic load shifting to increase the
theoretical limit imposed on Wind Energy integration.
This limit is determined by the financial implications of wind
energy curtailment. The following analysis uses the heating
schedule of a domestic immersion water heater to show that
price driven demand flexibility can increase this limit while
offering financial benefits to the consumer. Furthermore, the
increased use of wind generated electricity and a minimal
increase in overall demand results in reduced consumption of
conventionally generated electricity.
Cost Benefit Analysis to select clean energy solutions in dairy farm milk collection posts in Azores.
Authors: A. Rodrigues  , T. Dentinho  , C. Silva  , E. Azevedo
Published: July 2017

The  aim  of  this  paper  is  to  evaluate  the  possibility  of  implementation   of   alternative   renewable   energy   micro-generation installations in dairy farm milk collection posts, from    the    technical,    economical    and    environmental    perspectives. This   work   was   performed   through   a   dairy   farm   milk   collection  post  energy  audit,  to  perform  energy  profile  characterization  and  demand  requirements.  Following  that,  a   study   of   the   weather   conditions   was   done   and   the   obtained    data    (through    CLIMAAT    and    MacSIMAR    projects)   [11]   was   introduced   in   a   renewable   energy   solutions calculator (HOMER). Moreover, a system design from  the  available  portfolio  of  micro-generation  devices  was  defined  and  a  cost  benefit  analysis  of  the  selected  alternatives  was  done.  In  the  end  a  comparison  of  the  current  implemented  solution  with  alternative  designs  was  performed. Results show that from the analyzed solutions for this case, the set of PV (20Kw) and Wind (3KW) with no batteries is the  best  one,  since  it  presents  the  least  cost  of  energy,  the  smallest  initial  capital  and  the  highest  Net  Present  Cost.  The  sensitivity  analysis  derive  that  wind  micro-turbines  should  be  installed  except  if  the  solar  radiation  is  on  its  maximum value and that in no case the use of batteries is an advantage for the system operation. For  systems  requiring  a  certain  degree  of  energy  (in  this  case  with  an  average  of  350  kW/day),  the  implementation  of  micro  generation  systems,  like  the  ones  evaluated,  will  never  be  economically  viable  in  terms  of  Total  Economic  Value,  even  with  generous  feed-in  tariff  schemes.  It  is  preferable  that  the  grid  operator  makes  investments  in  renewable   energy   production.   To   improve   the   system   energy  performance,  the  options  should  be  focused  on  energy efficiency measures.
A construção pronominal e a recordatio elegíaca: alusões textuais na produção poética de Ovídio.
Authors: De Souza Douglas Gonçalves
Published: July 2017

Em muitos poemas elegíacos de Ovídio, o eu-lírico parece tomar consciência de sua existência literária, a partir de intertextos presentes na tradição romana. Em outros casos, a persona elegíaca aparenta (re)viver experiências próximas de sua realidade mítico-literária. Assim sendo, este estudo, por um lado, pretende descrever o modo como a construção pronominal [ille + substantivo] auxilia no desenvolvimento do eixo temático elegíaco da recordatio; por outro, à luz de postulados concernentes à arte alusiva e à intertextualidade, intenta demonstrar como tais retomadas textuais (externas) contribuem para a (res)significação (interna) dos poemas ovidianos.
Helena, de Eurípides
Authors: Torrano Jaa
Published: July 2017

Tradução de Helena, de Eurípides.
O homoerotismo de Marco Antônio na segunda Filípica de Cícero
Authors: Abreu Bruna Fernanda
Published: July 2017

Considerando as abordagens do conceito de homossexualidade para a Roma antiga, procuramos analisar o modo como Cícero expõe a “homossexualidade” de Marco Antônio em sua segunda Filípica. Esse discurso se caracteriza por acusações políticas e, principalmente, pessoais de Cícero a Marco Antônio. A passividade de Marco Antônio nas relações sexuais pode ser considerada um dos topos desse discurso invectivo.
A survey of Ibisbill (Ibidorhyncha struthersii) in the Rapti river
Authors: Shrestha A.K. , Lakhey S.P.
Published: July 2017

Abstract on the PDF
Morels and their production in natural environment of Jumla District, Nepal
Authors: Adhikari M.K.
Published: July 2017

Abstract on PDF
Unberable heat of forest flame
Authors: Baral Sushim Ranjan
Published: July 2017

No abstract
Perception and attitude towards tree growing in east Nepal
Authors: Das Annapurna N.
Published: July 2017

Information on existing tree growing practices were collected from seven villages of Morang District and six that of Dhankuta through Rural Appraisals. The tree species that the rural households were willing to introduce into their farmland have been listed. Results indicated that there is a common interest among rural households of both the Terai and Middle Hills towards growing bamboo in private farmlands. Rural households in the Terai preferred timber species such as sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo) and fruit trees which have high commercial values, whereas Middle Hills households preferred fodder trees.
Sensitivity analysis for thermo-hydraulics model of a Westinghouse type PWR: verification of the simulation results
Authors: Farahani A. Z. , Yousefpour F. , Hoseyni S. M.
Published: July 2017

Development of a steady-state model is the first step in nuclear safety analysis. The developed model should be qualitatively analyzed first, then a sensitivity analysis is required on the number of nodes for models of different systems to ensure the reliability of the obtained results. This contribution aims to show through sensitivity analysis, the independence of modeling results to the number of nodes in a qualified MELCOR model for a Westinghouse type pressurized power plant. For this purpose, and to minimize user error, the nuclear analysis software, SNAP, is employed. Different sensitivity cases were developed by modification of the existing model and refinement of the nodes for the simulated systems including steam generators, reactor coolant system and also reactor core and its connecting flow paths. By comparing the obtained results to those of the original model no significant difference is observed which is indicative of the model independence to the finer nodes.
Advantages of Using Supercapacitors and Silicon Carbide on Hybrid Vehicle Series Architecture
Authors: Passalacqua Massimiliano , Lanzarotto Damiano , Repetto Matteo , Marchesoni Mario
Published: July 2017

In recent years enormous growth has taken place in the hybrid vehicle sector; parallel architecture is the most widespread configuration regarding medium size cars. At the same time, storage systems and power electronics have experienced some important innovations. The development of supercapacitors has permitted management of high power with elevated efficiency. Moreover, the availability on the market of silicon carbide components has allowed a significant reduction of power electronic losses. These improvements may challenge the hybrid architecture used in medium size cars nowadays. On one hand, series architecture would relevantly benefit from an electric powertrain efficiency increase, on the other hand, these innovations would generate low benefits in parallel architectures. The aim of this paper is to evaluate electric component average efficiency over different road missions, in order to estimate fuel economy over various working conditions and finally to establish which hybrid configuration is most efficient in vehicle applications.
Determining the Horizontal and Vertical Water Velocity Components of a Turbulent Water Column Using the Motion Response of an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Randeni P. Supun , Forrest Alexander , Cossu Remo , Leong Zhi , Ranmuthugala Dev
Published: July 2017

This work introduces a new method to calculate the water velocity components of a turbulent water column in the x, y, and z directions using Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) motion response (referred to as the ‘WVAM method’). The water column velocities were determined by calculating the difference between the motion responses of the vehicle in calm and turbulent water environments. The velocity components obtained using the WVAM method showed good agreement with measurements from an acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) mounted to the AUV. The standard deviation between the two datasets were below 0.09 m s−1 for the velocity components in the x, y, and z directions, and were within the uncertainty margin of the ADCP measurements. With the WVAM method, it is possible to estimate the velocity components within close proximity to the AUV. This region encompasses the vehicle boundary layer and the ADCP blanking distance, which is not typically resolved. Estimating vertical and horizontal velocities around the boundary layer of the AUV is important for vehicle navigation and control system optimization, and to fill the blanking distance gap within a water column velocity profile, which is important for flow field characterization. The results show that it is possible to estimate the flow field in the vicinity of AUVs and other self-propelled vehicles.
Symmetric Supercapacitor Electrodes from KOH Activation of Pristine, Carbonized, and Hydrothermally Treated Melia azedarach Stones
Authors: Moreno-Castilla Carlos , García-Rosero Helena , Carrasco-Marín Francisco
Published: July 2017

Waste biomass-derived activated carbons (ACs) are promising materials for supercapacitor electrodes due to their abundance and low cost. In this study, we investigated the potential use of Melia azedarach (MA) stones to prepare ACs for supercapacitors. The ash content was considerably lower in MA stones (0.7% ash) than that found in other lignocellulosic wastes. ACs were prepared by KOH activation of pristine, carbonized, and hydrothermally-treated MA stones. The morphology, composition, surface area, porosity, and surface chemistry of the ACs were determined. Electrochemical measurements were carried out in three- and two-electrode cells, 3EC and 2EC, respectively, using 1 M H2SO4 as the electrolyte. The highest capacitance from galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD) in 2EC ranged between 232 and 240 F·g−1 at 1 A·g−1. The maximum energy density reached was 27.4 Wh·kg−1 at a power density of 110 W·kg−1. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) revealed an increase in equivalent series resistance (ESR) and charge transfer resistance (RCT) with greater ash content. Electrochemical performance of MA stone-derived ACs was compared with that of other ACs described in the recent literature that were prepared from different biomass wastes and results showed that they are among the best ACs for supercapacitor applications.
Ten-Meter Sentinel-2A Cloud-Free Composite—Southern Africa 2016
Authors: Ramoino Fabrizio , Tutunaru Florin , Pera Fabrizio , Arino Olivier
Published: July 2017

The processing of cloud free geo-referenced imagery is one of the preliminary processing steps of any land application. This letter describes the methodology developed to obtain a seamless cloud free composite of Africa for 2016 using Sentinel-2A data at 10-meter resolution freely available from the European Space Agency. The method is based on a hybrid method resulting from the merging of the two most robust time series methods namely the “darkest pixel” and the “maximum Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI)” previously developed with the Advanced Very-High-Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) time series.
Interference Alignment Based on Rank Constraint in MIMO Cognitive Radio Networks
Authors: Li Yibing , Diao Xueying , Dong Qianhui , Tang Chunrui
Published: July 2017

In this paper, we focus on the interference management in the cognitive radio (CR) network comprised of multiple primary users (PUs) and multiple secondary users (SUs). Firstly, two interference alignment (IA) schemes are proposed to mitigate the interference among PUs. The first one is an interference rank minimization (IRM) scheme, which aims to minimize the rank of the joint interference matrix via alternating between the forward and reverse communication links. Considering the overhead of information exchanged between the transmitters and receivers in the IRM scheme, we further develop an interference subspace distance minimization (ISDM) scheme which runs at the transmitters only. The ISDM scheme focuses on aligning the subspaces spanned by interference with an aligned subspace introduced in this paper. For the secondary network, though IRM and ISDM mitigate the received interference at secondary receivers, they make no attempt to eliminate the interference from SUs to PUs. To address this, we improve the IRM and ISDM schemes by putting a rank constraint into their optimizations, where the rank constraint forces the ranks of the interference matrices from SUs to PUs to be zero. Simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed schemes in terms of the average sum rate.
Helpful strategies for GPs seeing patients with medically unexplained physical symptoms: a focus group study
Authors: Aamland Aase , Fosse Anette , Ree Eline , Abildsnes Eirik , Malterud Kirsti
Published: July 2017

Background

Patients with long-lasting and disabling medically unexplained physical symptoms (MUPS) are common in general practice. GPs have previously described the challenges regarding management and treatment of patients with MUPS.

Aim

To explore GPs’ experiences of the strategies perceived as helpful when seeing patients with MUPS.

Design and setting

Three focus group interviews with a purposive sample of 24 experienced GPs were held in southern Norway.

Method

Discussions were audiotaped and transcribed. Systematic text condensation was used for analysis.

Results

Several strategies were considered helpful during consultations with patients with MUPS. A comprehensive outline of the patient’s medical past and present could serve as the foundation of the dialogue. Reviewing the patient’s records and sharing relevant information with them or conducting a thorough clinical examination could offer ‘golden moments’ of trust and common understanding. A very concrete exchange of symptoms and diagnosis interpretation sometimes created a space for explanations and action, and confrontations could even strengthen the alliance between the GP and the patient. Bypassing conventional answers and transcending tensions by negotiating innovative explanations could help patients resolve symptoms and establish innovative understanding.

Conclusion

GPs use tangible, down-to-earth strategies in consultations with patients with MUPS. Important strategies were: thorough investigation of the patient’s symptoms and story; sharing of interpretations; and negotiation of different explanations. Sharing helpful strategies with colleagues in a field in which frustration and dissatisfaction are not uncommon can encourage GPs to develop sustainable responsibility and innovative solutions.
Peritoneal Dialysis in Very Low Birth Weight Neonates
Authors: Stojanović Vesna D. , Bukarica Svetlana S. , Antić Jelena B. , Doronjski Aleksandra D.
Published: July 2017

Background

The aim of this retrospective study is to evaluate clinical characteristics and outcomes of very low birth weight (VLBW) neonates with acute kidney injury (AKI) treated with peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Methods

This retrospective study included 10 VLBW neonates treated with PD. Intravenous (IV) cannula and umbilical venous catheter were used for the peritoneal access.

Results

Mean age at the moment of starting PD was 14.9 ± 9.3 days. Mean body weight (BW) was 825 ± 215 g. The average gestational age was 26.3 ± 1.1 weeks. The average duration of dialysis was 20.5 ± 14.7 h. The average ultrafiltration was 7.7 ± 4.2 mL/kg/h. At the moment of starting PD, the average BW was 302 ± 317g (22 ± 13%), higher than at birth (in patients who had PD started in first 2 weeks of their lives) or higher than the BW before AKI was diagnosed (patients who had PD started when they were older than 2 weeks). The main cause of AKI was sepsis ( n = 8/10). Dialysate leak was registered in 2 patients, 1 patient had peritonitis and the other had a blocked PD catheter. Six patients died during PD (severe sepsis), 1 died due to hypoxic encephalopathy and coma, and 2 patients survived. One patient (with hypoxic encephalopathy and coma) died 10 days after PD was stopped due to sepsis. The overall mortality was 80%.

Conclusion

Acute PD is still an appropriate treatment choice for VLBW neonates with AKI. In VLBW neonates, PD can be performed with an improvised PD system and catheters.
Absence of Post-Transplantation Encapsulating Peritoneal Sclerosis after Relatively Short Exposure to Peritoneal Dialysis: Prospective Analysis Using Repeated Abdominal Ct Scanning
Authors: Abrahams Alferso C. , van Gelder Maaike K. , van der Veer Jan Willem , de Jong Pim A. , van Leeuwen Maarten S. , Boer Walther H.
Published: July 2017

Background

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) is the most severe complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). Several retrospective reports published between 2007 and 2009 have suggested an increasing incidence of EPS occurring after kidney transplantation. We conducted a prospective observational study to determine the incidence of post-transplantation EPS and identify possible risk factors.

Methods

Consecutive PD patients undergoing kidney transplantation between 2009 and 2013 were included. Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis was defined as gastrointestinal obstruction combined with radiological evidence of EPS. Gastrointestinal symptoms were assessed using a self-administered Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) questionnaire. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) was performed prospectively at 6 and 18 months post-transplantation. The primary end point was EPS during follow-up.

Results

Fifty-three PD patients were included (age 51 ± 14 years). Mean PD duration was 31.3 months. Peritoneal dialysis solutions low in glucose degradation products and icodextrin were used by 86.8% of patients. A fast or average-fast transport status was documented in 83.0%. After a median follow-up of 19 months, complete data of 47 patients were available for analysis. None of the patients developed clinical or radiological signs of EPS. The GSRS score improved from 1.87 to 1.55 ( p = 0.024) and body weight increased from 75.9 to 78.3 kg ( p = 0.003). Only 1 patient had new onset localized (< 20%) peritoneal thickening on CT 22 months post-transplantation.

Conclusion

Post-transplantation EPS did not develop in this cohort of patients with a relatively short time of PD exposure. This suggests that these patients can be transplanted safely without concern for the development of EPS, at least within the follow-up period of 19 months.
Factors Predicting Severity of Tinnitus: A Population-Based Assessment
Authors: Sindhusake Doungkamol , Golding Maryanne , Wigney David , Newall Philip , Jakobsen Kirsten , Mitchell Paul
Published: July 2017

The Blue Mountains Hearing Study (BMHS) has shown that tinnitus affects one in three older Australians with 16% of cases describing severe annoyance. Among persons describing severe symptoms, 52% have sought professional help. We aim to identify factors associated with the severity
of tinnitus in 2,015 persons aged over 54 years. Comprehensive questionnaires about hearing were administered. Air- (250–8000 Hz) and bone-conduction (500–4000 Hz) audiometric thresholds of both ears, together with transient evoked and spontaneous otoacoustic emissions, were measured.
Factors predicting severity of tinnitus were assessed in Cox proportional hazard models. After multivariate adjustment, factors significantly associated with severe tinnitus were hearing loss (relative risk [RR] 2.9), dizziness (RR 2.0), head injury (RR 2.0), sinus and middle ear infections
(RR 1.9), and mastoiditis (RR 3.9). Associations with mild tinnitus included age (RR 0.8), hearing loss (RR 1.4) and history of dizziness (RR 1.5), meningitis (RR 2.2), and migraine (RR 1.5). Knowledge of these factors could contribute to improved tinnitus management. El estudio auditivo de
Blue Mountains (BMHS) ha mostrado que el acúfeno afecta a uno de cada tres australianos viejos, con un 16% de los casos reportando una molestia severa. Entre las personas que reportan signos severos, 52% han buscado ayuda profesional. Nuestra intención fue identificar los factores
asociados con la severidad del acúfeno en 2.015 personas con edades por encima de los 54 años. Se administraron cuestionarios comprensivos sobre audición. Se midieron los umbrales audiométricos por conducción aérea (2508000 Hz) y conducción
ósea (500-4000 Hz) en ambos oídos, junto con emisiones otoacústicas espontáneas y evocadas por transientes. Los factores predictivos en la severidad del acúfeno fueron evaluados con los modelos de Cox de riesgo proporcional. Luego de ajustes multivariados,
los factores significativamente asociados con la severidad del acúfeno fueron: pérdida auditiva (riesgo relativo [RR] 2.9), mareo (RR 2.0), lesión craneana (RR 2.0), infecciones sinusales y del oído medio (RR 1.9) y mastoiditis (RR 3.9). Las asociaciones con acúfeno
leve incluyeron edad (RR 0.8), hipoacusia (RR 1.4) e historia de mareos (RR 1.5), meningitis (RR 2.2) y migraña (RR 1.5). El conocimiento de estos factores podría contribuir en mejorar el manejo del acúfeno.