bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body Image and Wellbeing in Religious Male and Female Youth in Israel
Authors: Fisherman Shraga
Published: September 2015

In the current study described in this chapter, we examined the relationship between body image and well-being among religiously observant male and female youth from four age groups: 16, 17, 19, and 22. MANOVA analysis of age x gender produced a significant interaction regarding body image. Various trends were found among the two genders according to age group. Among the girls, there is a moderate rise in body image (BI) with age, whereas among the boys there is an obvious decline between 17 and 19, followed by an increase. The boys' BI scores were significantly higher than those of the girls aged 16, 17, and 19, but not for age 22. There were significant and positive correlations between BI and well-being for all age groups and both genders. There were high correlations among the girls relative to those among the boys.
Cognitive Learning Methodologies for Brain-Inspired Cognitive Robotics
Authors: Wang Yingxu
Published: September 2015

Cognitive robots are brain-inspired robots that are capable of inference, perception, and learning mimicking the cognitive mechanisms of the brain. Cognitive learning theories and methodologies for knowledge and behavior acquisition are centric in cognitive robotics. This paper explores the cognitive foundations and denotational mathematical means of cognitive learning engines (CLE) and cognitive knowledge bases (CKB) for cognitive robots. The architectures and functions of CLE are formally presented. A content-addressed knowledge base access methodology for CKB is rigorously elaborated. The CLE and CKB methodologies are not only designed to explain the mechanisms of human knowledge acquisition and learning, but also applied in the development of cognitive robots, cognitive computers, and knowledge-based systems.
Respecting Life Cycle Management of Electrotechnical Equipment Based on Genetic Modeling Methods
Authors: Petrochenkov Anton
Published: September 2015

The approach to managing the lifecycle of electrical equipment based on genetic algorithms is considered in this paper. The distinction of the approach is in the use of genetic simulation methods regarding the effective maintenance of electrotechnical equipment. The interpretations of genetic operations in such approach are given. The function of the life cycle of electrotechnical equipment is introduced.
Asynchronous Motor Operation Ability Investigation with Numerical Simulation
Authors: Shevchenko Andrey A. , Grechkin Vladimir V. , Temlyakova Zoya S.
Published: September 2015

In this article the method which allows us to perform the calculation of the electromagnetic field in an electrical motor jointly with the calculation of current in a coil and with the rotor rotation under the effect of electromagnetic forces and loads is considered. The possibilities of this method application to the electrical motor design are demonstrated with several tasks. The comparison with the experimental data obtained for the asynchronous motor with two squirrel-cage windings of the rotor is given.
Diagnosis of Inverter Drives Faults
Authors: Kislov Alexander , Kaidar Argyn , Shapkenov Bauyrzhan
Published: September 2015

This article represents research on fault diagnosis of inverter electric drives. It puts more emphasis on power electronics and drives. The paper begins with the diagnostics of systems with conventional inverter drives, because knowledge of the fault diagnosis in conventional inverter can be used for its applications in other topologies of inverter drives. Therefore, the article describes several methods for troubleshooting.
Variable Frequency Control of Induction Motors for Emergency Demand Response
Authors: Armeev Denis , Abramova Yana , Luzhetsky Vyacheslav
Published: September 2015

The frequency variable drivers of induction motors are typically used to control mechanical load. In the paper a frequency control method is proposed to affect regime of the grid that feeds these motors. The method provides successful self-starting or restarting after significant power disturbance of group induction motors.
The proposed strategies are applicable for smart grid, for example, demand response technology works well for industrial loads. It is can be useful not only for normal regimes but in case of emergency, for instance, dynamic demand provides accurate control of the load. Both technologies (demand response or dynamic demand) are well integrated in smart grid concept.
Research Characteristics of Aluminum Alloy Obtained by the Method of Rapid Crystallization in Electromagnetic Field
Authors: Pervukhin Mikhail , Kuchinskii Mikhail
Published: September 2015

The paper presents the basics of the technology for rapid crystallization of aluminum alloys in electromagnetic field. It is shown that the ingots produced with the stated technology have even microstructure and improved physical and mechanical characteristics.
Itinerant Phase Converter with Improved Energy Performance
Authors: Djaborov Mehrubon Mahmadqulovich , Myatezh Sergey Vladimirovich , Shchurov Nikolay Ivanovich
Published: September 2015

At present, the control system of electric traction motors is widely used in four-regulators collected on thyristors in a bridge rectifier circuit. The feature switching processes in them are needed to introduce an artificial delay of the thyristors opening angle, which reduces the average value of the power factor up to 0.8. The article assesses the effectiveness of the combination of the rectified voltage from the point of view of increasing the energy performance of the band rectifiers for controlling the traction motor freight locomotives operating on alternating current. With this regulation the greatest effect is achieved in the first control zone, under normal conditions when the power factor is particularly low (0.2 ... 0.6). The expected improvement of the average power factor of the first zone will be about 22%, and taking into account the duration of the performance in all working areas, it should be about 5-10%
The Impact of Distributed Generation on Power Quality of the Electric Network
Authors: Marchenko Andrey , Fishov Alexander
Published: September 2015

The paper describes the investigation results of distributed generation connection to the electricity distribution network, and its impact on the quality of electric energy at the load nodes of the surrounding area. The studies were performed with the use of the electro-dynamic model of electric power systems. Technological and functional models were created to provide accounts on low generation services to improve electricity quality.
Hybrid Synchronous Motor Magnetic Field Analysis
Authors: Suvorkova Elena E. , Dementiev Yuriy N. , Burulko Lev K.
Published: September 2015

This paper introduces researching results of hybrid synchronous motor rotor permanent-magnet part magnets’ magnetization influence on its starting torque. The magnetic field analysis is made in reluctance synchronous motor and synchronous permanent-magnet motor, as main parts of the hybrid motor.
Development of Calculation Methodology of Thermal Equivalent Circuit’s Parameters for Predicting Temperature of High Voltage Cable Lines 110 - 500 kV
Authors: Zaytsev Evgeny
Published: September 2015

This paper is concerned with the development of techniques to the calculation of the thermal equivalent circuit parameters for the high-voltage cable line laid in the ground. The topology of the scheme was developed in author’s previous publication. This article discusses the parameters of the circuit which simulate the environment of the cable line. Calculation techniques of these parameters are described for cables laid in a plane and a trefoil pattern. The proposed scheme allows one to predict heating of cables on the day ahead in order to prevent thermal degradation of the insulation.
Efficient Ways and Means of Reliability Increase of Distribution Networks
Authors: Byk Felix , Kazakova Lyudmila
Published: September 2015

The efficiency of electric network companies is influenced by the time and scale of distribution network reliability improvement. It’s proposed to make the analysis of the network reliability due to the ratio of the “current” and “limiting” availability factors. The method and the model have been developed for comparison and making a choice of the ways and means to improve the distribution network recoverability and its failure-free operation. The problems of efficiency calculation and the choice of means for 35-220 kV lines reliability improvement have been solved.The use of a cross-arm and a tower made from composite materials is considered to be the obvious example of such means.
Phasor Measurements Application in Power Systems for Accelerated Power Flow Calculations in Emergency Control
Authors: Bartolomey Petr , Semenenko Sergey
Published: September 2015

Power system’s voltage phasor (phase and amplitude) measurements provided by phasor measurement unit (PMU) gives opportunity to build the algorithm of PMU assessment generating triangular admittance matrix. It allows reducing of the power system power flow calculation to the sequential solving of single equations with one variable at a time, instead of conventional linear equations system solving. The effect of super accelerated calculation is important for on-line operative calculations and for emergency control systems with pre-selected settings. This paper considers the general features of the algorithm. The paper presents test results obtained from the IEEE power system models and big power systems for more than 3000 buses. The PMU and SCADA concurrent use was concerned.
Open Overhead Transmission Lines
Authors: Shishkov Evgeny , Goldstein Valery , Krivihin Ivan
Published: September 2015

Ultra High-Voltage Overhead Lines (UHV OHL) currently are successfully applied for solving two problems. The first case is powerful interconnection of two or more electric power systems. The second one is transition of significant power flows from generation areas to consuming areas – densely populated urban agglomerations and industrial centers. Longitudinal compensation installations are integral part of long-distance UHV OHL. The possibility of designing self-compensated OHL is considered in the paper.
Decision Support System Based on the Concept of Hybrid Simulation for Dispatching Personnel of Electric Power Systems
Authors: Andreev Mikhail , Borovikov Yuri , Gusev Alexander
Published: September 2015

This article summarizes the results of an analytical review of usage in Russian and the world information and telecommunications decision support systems for dispatching personnel of electric power systems (ITDSS DP EPS). The need for a fundamentally new and effective ITDSS DP EPS has been identified. A comparative evaluation of the effectiveness of the possible directions of research in the field of ITDSS DP EPS has been done. As the key methods for development of ITDSS DP EPS the numerical and hybrid approaches to electric power system (EPS) simulation were highlighted. Theoretical substantiation of unacceptability of the first variant allowed choosing the hybrid approach as a major which allows developing and applying the most effective methods, ways and means for every significant aspect of the problem of creation of ITDSS DP EPS. In accordance with this approach, two possible constructions of ITDSS DP EPS have been proposed, discussed and described briefly in the article.
Investigation of the Coal Char Conversion by Thermogravimetric Analysis
Authors: Khudyakova Galina , Osipov Pavel , Ryzhkov Alexander
Published: September 2015

This paper reports the kinetics of coal char conversion. An experimental technique of simultaneous thermal analysis is presented. The obtained results are compared with other studies of char kinetics reported in the literature. The analysis shows that thermogravimetric method enables to determine input parameters for mathematical modeling of thermo-chemical conversion in an entrained flow reactor.
Long-Term Experience of Running Operation Boilers Equipped with Furnace Working upon High-Temperature Circulating Fluidized Bed
Authors: Lesnykh Andrey , Golovatiy Sergey , Valovik Danil
Published: September 2015

The boiler KE-10-14 reconstructed under high-temperature furnace circulation fluidized bed has been considered. Features of the boiler with a high-temperature furnace circulation fluidized bed have been presented. The characteristics of the boiler and problem of its operation for the whole period of operation have been shown. Recommendations for improving the efficiency of boiler have been developed on the basis of conducted operational tests. The results of adjustment system sectional blast have been presented. The characteristics of the boiler on different types of coal have been compared. The application of HTCFB furnace as well as carry out commissioning activities has made it possible to increase the effectiveness of the KE-10-14 boiler.
Investigation of Non-Stationary Processes in a Nonlinear Inductor with the Massive Magnetic Core by Structured Modeling Methods
Authors: Neyman Ludmila A. , Neyman Vladimir Yu. , Shabanov Andrew S.
Published: September 2015

Improvement of calculation accuracy of dynamical processes in an inductor with the massive magnetic core is an actual problem. The mathematical model of these processes consists of electrical and magnetic balance differential equations derived for the non-linear inductor generalized equivalent circuit. The main attention is focused on the non-linear inductor dynamical model schematic implementation, and development of a robust algorithm to analyze electromagnetic processes in non-stationary modes by means of structured modeling in Matlab Simulink.
Cross-Subsidization in Power Engineering
Authors: Dronova Yuliya , Anikina Kira , Harutyunyan Hovhannes
Published: September 2015

The study is devoted to the issues of power price differentials for different groups of consumers. The factors have been identified to make a choice of the consumers’ groups in whose favour energy cost could be reduced. The set of the factors varies with regard to the government’s objectives: protection of vulnerable social consumers’ groups, or encouragement of economic growth through industrial development. The relation between the energy cost quoted for different consumers’ groups and national measures has been supported by statistical analysis.
Mechanisms of Destruction by Alternate Current
Authors: Myulbaer Aleksander , Tselebrovsky Yury
Published: September 2015

The mechanism of underground steel pipelines destruction by induced alternate currents in defects of waterproofing coat is considered in the article. Experimental assemblies have been developed to define the limit of qualitative change of character of degradation processes in steel under the action of alternate current. The change of processes’ character occurring on boundary “metal – electrolyte” with the increase of applied alternate voltage has been experimentally shown. For voltages more than 30 V the steel destruction becomes intensified by electroerosion phenomena.
Energy Efficiency of Investment Projects Public and Private Partnerships
Authors: Tupikina Anastasiya , Shablova Yelena , Arutynyan Oganes
Published: September 2015

In the context of Russian power and transport modernization the problem of new ways searching of energy efficiency increasing based on area has been assuming significance and topicality within last years. The goal of authors’ research is the identification of current problems in the power engineering and transport sectors under modern economic conditions and the development of municipal education tendencies (directions) from the social and energy efficiency prospective. The number of state investment projects have been developed and justified from the economic and energy efficiency point of view. The proposed and justified directions and measures (actions) related to the implementation of state energy efficiency project on the area-based development will be helpful to State Government bodies. The research was carried out at the support of the program for strategic development of Novosibirsk State Technical University, project No C-31.
Assessment of Administrative Labor Organization in Electrical Engineering
Authors: Mezhov Igor , Kiseleva Margarita , Chuvaev Alexey
Published: September 2015

The article is devoted to the problems of management, managerial staff performance, and the production system organized nature in electrical engineering. Managers often appear to perform the work of low-skilled employees, which results in significant losses. The study presents the options to account and minimize the losses. Moreover, the proposed method is time and cost efficient and could be easily disseminated in electric machine industry.
Optimal Control Mode of the Vakhsh Hydropower Reservoirs to Reduce Electricity Shortages in Tajikistan
Authors: Sekretarev Yuri , Sultonov Sherkhon , Shalnev Victor
Published: September 2015

The paper is aimed to determine runoff limits of the Vakhsh cascade hydropower plant, which are the main parameters when setting optimum modes of the hydropower plant. It is proposed to increase power generation of the hydropower plant of the Vakhsh cascade by assigning the optimal modes of operation of hydropower plants. The peculiarities of managing the cascades of hydropower plants are described. The description of the Vakhsh cascade hydropower plant and the method of controlling the reservoir of the cascade of the hydropower plants are given.
Analytical Analysis of Electromagnetic Processes in System "MHD Stirrer - Bath with Melt"
Authors: Timofeev Victor , Khatsayuk Maksim , Aliferov Aleksander
Published: September 2015

The present article describes the analysis of electromagnetic field carried out by an analytical method in the system inductor–bath with melt (liquid metal) taking into account different winding characteristics of the inductor. It also defines integral and differential characteristics of the system for the most widespread windings of an MHD-stirrer.
Investigation of Electrical Parameters of Interleaved Conductors' Packages in High Power Electrotechnological Installations
Authors: Goreva L.P. , Vlasov D.S. , Shvetsova M.S.
Published: September 2015

Electric currents of the order 100 kA flow in secondary current leads of powerful electrotechnological installations. It causes active power losses and electromagnetic field power dissipation. To improve engineering-and-economical performance it is necessary to minimize pure resistance and inductance of current lead and symmetrize the parameters over phases while designing the installation. The paper considers approaches to formulate modern method for calculation pure resistance and inductance of secondary current leads in powerful electrotechnological installations.Interleaved conductors' packages have been examined as the longest partition of secondary current leads in ore-thermal furnace. The examination was carried out with numerical simulation of electromagnetic field of groups of interleaved water-cooled tubular buses (bus-packages) in ANSYS software. Dependencies of bus-packages pure resistance and inductance and their geometric parameters and interleaving ways for magnetic flux compensation have been obtained. Analysis of obtained results allows defining empiric formulae for calculation of electrical parameters of interleaved packages in powerful electrotechnological installations.
Eddy Current Impact Estimation in Designing Vibroisolator with 3D Electromagnetic Stiffness Compensator
Authors: Gurova Elena G.
Published: September 2015

In this research the method of the calculation of the power losses in DC electromagnet through eddy currents, which are analog of the viscous friction, is presented. The influence of these currents on the operation of the vibroisolator with the electromagnetic stiffness compensator is estimated. The losses of the power on eddy currents are less than 1 per cent of the electromagnet power itself and the compensator totally. The example of the calculation of the losses for eddy currents in steel conductor is also shown.
Enhancing Resistance of Cables to Hydrocarbons
Authors: Matery Tatiyana , Kim Vladimir
Published: September 2015

An aging in hydrocarbon fluids (the transformer oil and diesel fuel) of cables with sheaths produced of polymers having different resistance to swelling and using different extruders has been carried out. While the aging resistance of cables is mainly determined by the resistance of its polymer sheath to the swelling, it is shown that the cable resistance to aging in hydrocarbons can be significantly increased by using of twin extruder to produce a two-layer sheath in one operation. This way of sheathing is proposed to increase the oil resistance of cables.
Improvement of Electrical Insulating and Anti-Wear Properties of Composites Used in Telemetry Systems
Authors: Gallyamov A.R. , Ibatullin I.D. , Murzin A.Y.
Published: September 2015

This article deals with the research results of electroinsulated and tribotechnical properties of composite materials on the basis of epoxide resin. The effect of fillers — micro-and nanopowders of various materials - on the properties of composites is examined. The use of composites in the manufacture of separators for telemetry systems is demonstrated.
Probability of the Spectrums Overlap in Case of Carrier Frequency Random Shift in Asynchronous Radio System without Feedback
Authors: Puzyrev Pavel I. , Zavyalov Sergey A. , Kosykh Anatoly V.
Published: September 2015

This article discusses regularity between the temperature fluctuation of environment, in which operates the transmitting device, and a random frequency shift of a carrier. Shows how frequency stability over temperature of reference oscillators of transmitting devices influences the probability of packet loss as a result of collisions in asynchronous radio system without feedback. Particular solutions for the uniform and Gaussian distribution of random frequency shift are presented.
Determination of Internal Heat Power during the Induction Heating Based on Solution of Linear Inverse Heat Conduction Problem
Authors: Diligenskaya Anna , Mandra Andrey
Published: September 2015

In this paper an inverse heat conduction problem for estimating the constant value of power of internal heat source during induction heating of paramagnetic material is developed. The experimentally measured temperature data are used as the input for the inverse heat transfer model. The problem is formulated as a problem of optimal control over an object with distributed parameters, the internal heat power is considered as the control action. The problem is reduced to a problem of mathematical programming; the special optimisation method based on the alternance properties of the sought optimum solutions is applied to estimate the internal heat power.
Thermal Annealing Effect on Active Layer Structure in All-Polymer Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Anokhin Denis V. , Gerasimov Kirill L. , Kiriy Anton , Ivanov Dimitri A.
Published: September 2015

The structural evolution of the components for the active layers of all-polymer solar cells was studied by DSC, X-ray diffraction and optical microscopy. It was found that polymer donor (PTQ1) and polymer acceptor (PNDIT2) form lamellar structures with layers oriented parallel and perpendicular to the substrate, respectively. All films reveal π-π stacking in the direction normal to the film. During thermal annealing the structure improvement occurs only for the donor component. In a PTQ1/ PNDIT2 blend, two components form individual lamellar phases with the texture similar to that of the pure polymers. Upon annealing, the structure of PNDIT2 was found to be disturbed whereas the structure of PTQ1 phase improves. The micro-phase separation occurring during annealing of the PTQ1/ PNDIT2 blend is accompanied by the formation of large spherulitic objects.
Metallurgy and Ancient Coins: A Multidisciplinary Research
Authors: Calliari Irene , Breda Marco , Canovaro Caterina
Published: September 2015

Coins are widely studied in archaeometry because they provide a lot of information on social, economic and technological history of people and territories which they are related to. A lot of chemical analyses have been performed by different methods, but only a few of metallographic data are known. The combination of chemical analysis with metallurgical investigation results in a complete description of the coin and its production steps. This paper reports a summary of the results on the Cu base coinage in Italy (Roman and Byzantine Empires) with the aim to develop a protocol of investigation based on microstructural and chemical analysis in order to reinforce the numismatic classification.
Investigation of Synchronization Properties of PM Machines with Fractional Slot Concentrated Windings
Authors: Vialcev Georgy B. , Shevchencko Alexander F.
Published: September 2015

The paper reports on results of studying self-starting capabilities of a commercial machine with fractional slot concentrated windings. The results are obtained by mathematical modeling techniques and experiment.
Additional Torque in Multipole Permanent Magnet Machines Caused by Eccentricity
Authors: Shevchenko Aleksandr Fedorovich , Toporkov Dmitriy M.
Published: September 2015

The additional torque caused by the static eccentricity in multipole permanent magnet machines is investigated in the paper. The equation governing the dependence of the additional torque on number of poles and the amount of eccentricity qualitatively is developed. Analytical conclusions are verified by the results of numerical simulation.
Research of Non-Sinusoidal Voltage in Frequency Converter of Medium Power Operation
Authors: Kornilov Gennady Petrovich , Abdulveleev Ildar Ravil’evich , Khramshin Timur Rifkatovich
Published: September 2015

The article presents the comparative analysis of influence frequency regulated electric drive and current electric drive to harmonic structure of voltage of power grid. There was obtained the dependence of total harmonic distortion (THD) of curve on loading power for 2 types of valve converters. The effectiveness is shown in use of filter compensating device, connected at low side of converting transformer. There were defined the ranges of filter adjusting for improving THD of voltage curve. The described solutions are performed by the structural modeling method of Simulink packet in Matlab environment.
Financial stability in a moderately competitive banking market: evidence from the Sri Lankan banking sector
Authors: Liyanagamage H.D.D. C.
Published: September 2015

Banks in the developing countries are competing in an environment where the financial infrastructure or the prerequisites for such competition is lacking. Therefore there is a current debate in banking literature regarding the effect of bank competition on the stability of the banking sector. The present paper provides new and rather scarce evidence of effects of banking sector competition on financial stability of the Sri Lankan banking sector during the period 1996 to 2010. By analyzing a comprehensive set of panel data the study reveals that the Sri Lankan banking sector is moderately competitive as per Panzar and Rosse H-Statistic and, highly unstable as per Z- score. The results of the core analysis provide evidence for a U shape relationship between competition and stability in the Sri Lankan banking sector during the sample period. Hence, a different approach emerges, with underdeveloped countries giving a stronger role to competition authorities to understanding the complex relationship between competition and stability in the financial sector.The Kelaniya Journal of Management, Vol. 4(1); 2015: 1-30
Effect of Petrol and Spent Oil on the Growth of Guinea Corn (Sorghum bicolor L.)
Authors: Komolafe Ronke Justina , Akinola Olatunde M. , Agbolade Oludare James
Published: September 2015

This study assessed the effect of petrol and spent lubricating oil on the major growth traits (such as root length, stem length, leaf area, and biomass), and the changes in epidermal layer of leaf and its mitotic index in Guinea Corn (Sorghum bicolor L.) exposed to 0% (control), 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% concentrations of petrol and spent lubricating oil. Each concentration was mixed with 3 kg of soil in a plastic pot and each treatment was carried out in three replicates. Forty days after planting, the leaf areas of guinea corn plant were 95.83 cm2, 89.67 cm2, 89.47 cm2, and 77.80 cm2 in control, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% respectively of petrol pollutant. The means of stem length were 32.50 ± 0.5 cm, 22.60 ± 0.65 cm, 21.27 ± 0.75 cm, 20.83 ± 0.28 cm and 20.33 ± 0.28 cm in control, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% respectively. Both leaf area and stem length of treated seedlings reduced with increased concentration of the pollutants. Additionally, reduction in the dry weight of the seedlings increased with increasing concentration of both petrol and spent oil. The micrograph of the internal anatomy of the upper epidermal layers of the leaf revealed broken and scattered epidermal cells and smaller sizes of the stomata, and were increased with the increasing concentration of the treatment. Statistical analysis of the treatment shows that there was a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the stem length and leaf area of the seedlings. This study revealed that petroleum pollutant adversely affected germination, growth and development of guinea corn but petroleum products like spent oil can provide nutrition necessary for growth and yield of plant at low concentration.
Phyllosphere and Carposphere Bacterial Communities in Olive Plants Subjected to Different Cultural Practices
Authors: Pascazio Silvia , Crecchio Carmine , Ricciuti Patrizia , Palese Assunta Maria , Xiloyannis Cristos , Sofo Adriano
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study was to characterize phyllosphere and carposphere bacterial communities of olive trees subjected for 13 years to two different soil management systems (sustainable and conventional) in a mature olive grove located in Southern Italy. Amplified DNA fragments of the 16S ribosomal RNA eubacterial gene (16S rRNA) of bacteria living on leaf and fruit surface, and in fruit pulp were analyzed by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). A clone library of 16S rRNA amplicons extracted from the bacteria living in pulp homogenates and a phylogenetic analysis were performed. Generally, the DGGE patterns of the bacteria from both the treatments clustered separately. The medium-term sustainable orchard management resulted in a higher number of bacterial species from olive fruit pulp. Phyllosphere and carposphere communities evaluated by DGGE were affected by the type of the agricultural practices adopted. A better understanding of phyllosphere and carposphere microbiota of cultivated olive plants could be useful for the promotion of plant growth, a better plant protection and a higher crop quality.
A Rare Metastatic Myositis Ossificans of Obturator Muscle Secondary to Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Dell'Atti Lucio
Published: September 2015

The most frequent metastatic sites of the urothelial bladder cancers (UBCs) are bones, lungs, lymph nodes, liver, pleura, and brain. In the literature, skeletal muscle metastases from UBC have been rarely reported. We report a case of a 65-year-old male with metastatic myositis ossificans to obturator muscle 14 months after radical cystectomy performed for a muscle invasive transitional cell carcinoma. An abdomen computed tomography scan showed a lesion of about 8 cm in diameter in the left obturator muscle with myositis ossificans aspect. Ultrasound guided biopsy specimen of the left obturator muscle revealed poorly differentiated metastatic urothelial carcinoma with malignant myositis ossificans aspects. The patient refused additional surgery and received systemic chemotherapy and radiotherapy at the site of the lesion. The patient more than 6 months after treatment has a good performance status with a partial reduction of the mass and negative imaging for metastases in the follow-up.
Nutritional status as a predictive marker for surgical site infection in total joint arthroplasty
Authors: Alfargieny Randa , Bodalal Zuhir , Bendardaf Riyad , El-Fadli Mustafa , Langhi Salem
Published: September 2015

Background: Surgical site infection (SSI) is considered one of the most serious complications in total joint arthroplasty (TJA). This study seeks to analyze the predictive value of preoperative and postoperative nutritional biomarkers for SSI in elective TJA. Methodology: Nutritional markers were gathered retrospectively utilizing patient's records from the orthopedics department at Benghazi Medical Center (BMC). The sample spanned cases admitted during the 20-month period between January 2012 and August 2013 and had undergone either elective total hip replacement or total knee replacement. The collected lab results included a complete blood count, total lymphocyte count (TLC), and serum albumin (S. alb.) levels. The patients were then divided into two groups based on the occurrence of an SSI. Results: A total of 135 total knee (81.5%, n = 110/135) and total hip (18.5%, n = 25/135) replacements were performed at BMC during the study period. Among these cases, 57% (n = 78/135) had patient records suitable for statistical analysis. The average preoperative TLC was 2.422 ×103 cells/mm3 (range = 0.8–4.7 ×103 cells/mm3) whereas that number dropped after the surgery to 1.694 ×103 cells/mm3 (range = 0.6–3.8 ×103 cells/mm3). S. alb. levels showed a mean of 3.973 g/dl (range = 2.9–4.7 g/dl) preoperatively and 3.145 g/dl (range = 1.0–4.1 g/dl) postoperatively. The majority of TJA patients did not suffer any complication (67.4%, n = 91/135) while eight cases (5.9%) suffered from a superficial SSI. Conclusion: Preoperative S. alb. was identified as the only significant predictor for SSI (P = 0.011). Being a preventable cause of postoperative morbidity, it is recommended that the nutritional status (especially preoperative S. alb.) of TJA patients be used as a screening agent and appropriate measures be taken to avoid SSI.
Time-serial Assessment of Drug Combination Interventions in a Mouse Model of Colorectal Carcinogenesis Using Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: LeGendre-McGhee Susan , Rice Photini S. , Wall R. Andrew , Sprute Kyle J. , Bommireddy Ramireddy , Luttman Amber M. , Nagle Raymond B. , Abril Edward R. , Farrell Katrina , Hsu Chiu-Hsieh , Roe Denise J. , Gerner Eugene W. , Ignatenko Natalia A. , Barton Jennifer K.
Published: September 2015

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a high-resolution, nondestructive imaging modality that enables time-serial assessment of adenoma development in the mouse model of colorectal cancer. In this study, OCT was utilized to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions with the experimental antitumor agent α-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) and a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug sulindac during early [chemoprevention (CP)] and late stages [chemotherapy (CT)] of colon tumorigenesis. Biological endpoints for drug interventions included OCT-generated tumor number and tumor burden. Immunochistochemistry was used to evaluate biochemical endpoints [Ki-67, cleaved caspase-3, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, β-catenin]. K-Ras codon 12 mutations were studied with polymerase chain reaction-based technique. We demonstrated that OCT imaging significantly correlated with histological analysis of both tumor number and tumor burden for all experimental groups ( P < 0.0001), but allows more accurate and full characterization of tumor number and burden growth rate because of its time-serial, nondestructive nature. DFMO alone or in combination with sulindac suppressed both the tumor number and tumor burden growth rate in the CP setting because of DFMO-mediated decrease in cell proliferation (Ki-67, P < 0.001) and K-RAS mutations frequency ( P = 0.04). In the CT setting, sulindac alone and DFMO/sulindac combination were effective in reducing tumor number, but not tumor burden growth rate. A decrease in COX-2 staining in DFMO/sulindac CT groups (COX-2, P < 0.01) confirmed the treatment effect. Use of nondestructive OCT enabled repeated, quantitative evaluation of tumor number and burden, allowing changes in these parameters to be measured during CP and as a result of CT. In conclusion, OCT is a robust minimally invasive method for monitoring colorectal cancer disease and effectiveness of therapies in mouse models.
Variational Principles for Vibrating Carbon Nanotubes Conveying Fluid, Based on the Nonlocal Beam Model
Authors: Adali Sarp
Published: September 2015

Variational principles are derived in order to facilitate the investigation of the vibrations and stability of single and double-walled carbon nanotubes conveying a fluid, from a linear time-dependent partial differential equation governing their displacements. The nonlocal elastic theory of Euler-Bernoulli beams takes small-scale effects into account. Hamilton’s principle is obtained for double-walled nano-tubes conveying a fluid. The natural and geometric boundary conditions identified are seen to be coupled and time-dependent due to nonlocal effects.
Further Analysis of Global Synchronisation for Networks of Identical Cells with Delayed Coupling
Authors: Li Chun-Hsien , Chen Ren-Chuen
Published: September 2015

Synchronisation is one of the most interesting collective motions observed in large-scale complex networks of interacting dynamical systems. We consider global synchronisation for networks of nonlinearly coupled identical cells with time delays, using an approach where the synchronisation problem is converted to solving an homogeneous linear system. This approach is extended to fit networks under more general coupling topologies, and we derive four delay-dependent and delay-independent criteria that ensure the coupled dynamical network is globally synchronised. Some examples show that the four criteria are not mutually inclusive, and numerical simulations also demonstrate our theoretical results.
Anatomical variations of the phrenic nerve: an actualized review
Authors: Prates Júnior A. , Vasques L. , Bordoni L.
Published: September 2015

Introduction: The phrenic nerve normally arises from ventral rami of C3, C4 and C5. It emerges laterally to the superior portion oflateral border of scalenus anterior muscle and presents a descendent course between subclavian artery and vein. It crosses anterior to internal thoracic artery and descends through the mediastinum, until the diaphragm muscle, to supply it with motor and sensitive fibers. Matherials and Methods: A bibliographic review was conducted, based on anatomy, neuroanatomy and surgical anatomy textbooks, published in Brazil and abroad, as well as a review of scientific articles, published over the last 20 years, available on research databases PubMed, Scielo, LILACS and MEDLINE, from keywords phrenic nerve, variation and anomaly. Results: Variations of the phrenic nerve are frequent, but they are not often discussed. Thus, we aimed to conduct an actualized review over the subject. Regarding the variations in the origin of the phrenic nerve, textbooks vaguely inform that it is mainly formed by C4, but the recent cadaveric studies pointed the segments C4 and C5 as the most common origin. About the variations in its course, the most described is its passage anterior to the subclavian vein, before reaching the thorax. However, the presence of accessory phrenic nerve represents the greatestvariation, mostly arising from nerve to subclavian. There are few reports in literature about the complications associated to these variations, but some are suggested, as the possibility of causing its damage during the puncture of the subclavian vein, when the nerve descends anterior to it, which may lead to a hemidiaphragmatic paresis. When variations are present, even simple procedures may cause injuries. Conclusion: Therefore it is fundamental to know the normal anatomy and the possible variations of the phrenic nerve, in order to perform safe procedures in its topography, as well as to enable a timely recognition of complications.
First and Second Metatarsal Wire and Button Fixation with First and Fifth Bunionectomies for Correction of Splay Foot
Authors: Xie Bing , Zhou Da-peng , Tian Jing
Published: September 2015

Splay foot is a common foot deformity causing pain and disability. Various osteotomy techniques have been recommended for correction of the intermetatarsal angle, with variable success rates. Knowing that wire and button fixation device can provide strong and stiff repair, the aim of the present study was to assess the clinical and radiographic outcomes following 1st and 2nd metatarsal wire and button fixation with 1st and 5th bunionectomies in patients with symptomatic splay foot. The preoperative and postoperative radiological measurements and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores were statistically assessed in 12 patients (19 feet) with symptomatic splay foot using Wilcoxon signed rank test. The postoperative hallux valgus angle, 1st and 2nd intermetatarsal angle, and maximum distance between 1st and 5th metatarsal heads decreased significantly (p < 0.05). The AOFAS score improved significantly from 49.0 ± 6.0 to 82.0 ± 5.0 points (p < 0.05). The overall postoperative radiological and clinical outcomes in patients with symptomatic splay foot suggest that the technique of 1st and 2nd metatarsal wire and button fixation with 1st and 5th bunionectomies is safe, feasible and effective for surgical treatment of splay foot deformity.

How to cite this article

Xie B, Zhou D-P, Tian J. First and Second Metatarsal Wire and Button Fixation with First and Fifth Bunionectomies for Correction of Splay Foot. J Foot Ankle Surg (Asia-Pacific) 2015;2(1):1-7.
Novel Semi-open Technique for Repair of Acute Rupture of Achilles Tendon
Authors: Sobti Anshul Shyam , Mohrir Ganesh , Agarwala Sanjay
Published: September 2015

Background

The most common complication of open repair of Achilles tendon is skin necrosis and wound problems, especially in the distal part, where the blood supply to the skin is precarious. Minimally invasive and percutaneous techniques have become popular as they overcome this problem but these techniques put the sural nerve at risk and have high incidence of rerupture. We have devised a semi-open technique, which incorporates the advantages of both techniques and at the same time avoids their complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of this technique.

Materials and methods

Twenty-two patients with acute Achilles tendon rupture were operated with this new technique. The operative technique included incision up to the tendon gap, no distal extension and a percutaneous passage of nonabsorbable suture through the distal stump with approximation and plantaris augmentation. The results were compared on the basis of functional results (Leppilahti score), cosmetic results, patient satisfaction and complications encountered.

Results

Fifteen patients had excellent (68.%) and seven had good (32%) results according to the Leppilahti score. Our average scar length was 6.2 cm and all patients were fully satisfied with their results and rehabilitation. There was one case of superficial infection and no cases of rerupture or sural nerve injury.

Conclusion

This new semi-open technique serves as a perfect combination of open and percutaneous surgeries, providing excellent functional and cosmetic results and minimizing the incidence of complications at the same time.

How to cite this article

Agarwala S, Mohrir G, Sobti AS. Novel Semi-open Technique for Repair of Acute Rupture of Achilles Tendon. J Foot Ankle Surg (Asia-Pacific) 2015;2(1):22-26.
A distal 145 ka sediment record of Nile discharge and East African monsoon variability
Authors: Ehrmann W. , Schmiedl G. , Seidel M. , Krüger S. , Schulz H.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Clay mineral assemblages in a sediment core from the distal Nile discharge plume off Israel have been used to reconstruct the late Quaternary Nile sediment discharge into the Eastern Mediterranean Sea (EMS). The record spans the last ca. 145 ka. Smectite abundances indicate the influence of the Blue Nile and Atbara that have their headwaters in the volcanic rocks of the Ethiopian highlands. Kaolinite abundances indicate the influence of wadis, which contribute periodically to the suspension load of the Nile. Due to the geographical position, the climate and the sedimentary framework of the EMS is controlled by two climate systems. The long-term climate regime was governed by the African monsoon that caused major humid periods with enhanced sediment discharge at 132 to < 122 ka (AHP 5), 113 to 104 ka (AHP 4), and 86 to 74 ka (AHP 3). They lasted much longer than the formation of the related sapropel layers S5, S4 and S3. During the last glacial period (MIS 4–2) the long-term changes of the monsoonal system were superimposed by millennial-scale changes of an intensified mid-latitude glacial system. This climate regime caused short but pronounced drought periods in the Nile catchment, which are linked to Heinrich Events and alternate with more humid interstadials. The clay mineral record further implies that feedback mechanisms between vegetation cover and sediment discharge of the Nile are detectable but of minor importance for the sedimentary record in the southeastern Mediterranean Sea during the investigated African Humid Periods.
A two-stage calibration method for industrial robots with joint and drive flexibilities
Authors: Neubauer M. , Gattringer H. , Müller A. , Steinhauser A. , Höbarth W.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Dealing with robot calibration the neglection of joint and drive flexibilities limit the achievable positioning accuracy significantly. This problem is addressed in this paper. A two stage procedure is presented where elastic deflections are considered for the calculation of the geometric parameters. In the first stage, the unknown stiffness and damping parameters are identified. To this end the model based transfer functions of the linearized system are fitted to captured frequency responses of the real robot. The real frequency responses are determined by exciting the system with periodic multisine signals in the motor torques. In the second stage, the identified elasticity parameters in combination with the measurements of the motor positions are used to compute the real robot pose. On the basis of the estimated pose the geometric calibration is performed and the error between the estimated end-effector position and the real position measured with an external sensor (laser-tracker) is minimized. In the geometric model, joint offsets, axes misalignment, length errors and gear backlash are considered and identified. Experimental results are presented, where a maximum end-effector error (accuracy) of 0.32 mm and for 90 % of the poses a maximum error of 0.23 mm was determined (Stäubli TX90L).
La presencia de la lengua aragonesa en la revista "El Ebro" (1917-1936)
Authors: Ramos Antón Rubén
Published: September 2015

La revista El Ebro (1917-1936), editada en Barcelona por emigrantes aragoneses, supuso la primera experiencia de convivencia de diferentes variedades dialectales de la lengua aragonesa en un mismo medio de comunicación. Se trata de una experiencia que ha pasado prácticamente inadvertida en la historia reciente de una de las lenguas más minoritarias y con menor presencia mediática de Europa Occidental. En sus páginas se mezclaron artículos y colaboraciones escritos en dialectos hablados en los diferentes territorios de dominio lingüístico de la lengua junto con transcripciones de documentos medievales. Al mismo tiempo, se suscitaron debates sobre la cuestión lingüística que se vieron truncados tanto por la propia desaparición de la publicación como por la falta de concreción teórica
El desembarco de Bayo en Mallorca según las cartas del periodista Gabriel Fuster Mayans ‘Gafim’
Authors: Aguilera Povedano Manuel
Published: September 2015

El popular periodista mallorquín y concejal del Ayuntamiento de Palma Gabriel Fuster Mayans, alias Gafim, luchó con sólo 23 años en las filas del bando nacional durante la Guerra Civil Española. Gracias a las cartas inéditas que escribió a su novia, el autor ha podido reconstruir su papel durante el desembarco de Bayo en agosto-septiembre de 1936. Un testimonio excepcional de quien se convertiría en uno de los personajes más ilustres de la capital balear.