bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-Fingered Gripper with Flexure Hinges Actuated by Shape Memory Alloy Wires
Authors: Maffiodo Daniela ,   Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Politecnico di Torino, Raparelli Terenziano
Published: April 2017

A three-fingered gripper with flexure hinges actuated by shape memory alloy (SMA) wires was designed and prototyped. The aim of the work was the manipulation of small, almost cylindrical objects, e.g. test tubes, by a device having small overall dimensions. A parametric study of four different, but similar, fingers was conducted with the aim of obtaining a solution with a good amplification ratio and a gripping force almost constant during closure. The use of flexure hinges simplifies the design, but limits the finger range of motion. Moreover, it was possible to find a configuration with sufficient work space. Once the finger geometry was defined, the whole hand was then designed with the aim of producing a compact hand contained in a cylindrical volume (φ 65×h 65 mm), and the first prototype was built. Preliminary tests demonstrated its good dimensioning and the success of some technological solutions. The experimental transmission ratio was almost the same as the theoretical one. Some drawbacks have been highlighted, such as a reduced range of motion and incomplete backstroke; future studies will deal with them.
Elbow Musculoskeletal Model for Industrial Exoskeleton with Modulated Impedance Based on Operator’s Arm Stiffness
Authors: Borzelli Daniele ,   Politecnico di Torino, Pastorelli Stefano , Gastaldi Laura
Published: April 2017

With the ageing of the workforce in the manufacturing industry, the possibility of introducing support aids such as exoskeletons to reduce the fatigue and effort of the operator has to be evaluated. An upper-limb exoskeleton with controlled impedance is expected to reduce the discomfort in the operations which require precision. Hence, arm joint stiffening is required. Real-time calculation of the exoskeleton impedance should be based on the operator’s limb impedance, evaluated through electromyographic signals. A model of the operator’s arm is necessary to identify the best control law for the exoskeleton. In this paper, preliminary considerations and a model of the elbow on which two muscles act as agonist-antagonist are presented. Numerical results are discussed, and an estimation of the performance is also proposed.
Using Navi-Robot and a CT Scanner to Guide Biopsy Needles
Authors: Donnici Mario ,   Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccaìnica, Energetica e Gestionale (DIMEG), Università della Calabria, Lupinacci Giorgia , Nudo Paola , Perrelli Michele , Danieli Guido
Published: April 2017

Purpose of this study was to control the suitability of Navi-Robot, a robotic system developed by our research group, to guide percutaneous needle placement under computed tomography (CT) in order to achieve lower radiation exposure and a shorter procedure. The system consists of a high precision six-degrees-of-freedom self-balanced arm, able to move both in passive and active modes, which allows the physician an accurate needle-insertion. The target and the needle entry points are selected by the surgeon on a desktop computer, that acquires DICOM images from the CT scan, and that, using software developed for this purpose, detects also the position of at least three radio opaque markers placed on the patient or on the stretcher. Once these data are obtained, a new system of reference is established based on the markers position, obtaining the coordinates of target and entry point in the new frame of reference. Going then to touch the tip of the spheres with the tip of the robot end effector in passive mode, and recording their position, the robot learns where the two points of interest are located in its frame of reference. A first test was performed on a Plexiglas board; the accuracy achieved was measured as the distance between the needle tip and the target. The results of the in vitro experiment showed that the system is able to reach the target with an accuracy of 1.2 mm.
A Novel Automated Construction Method of Signal Fingerprint Database for Mobile Robot Wireless Positioning System
Authors: Ismail Abdul Halim ,   System and Control Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Toyohashi University of Technology, Mizushiri Yuki , Tasaki Ryosuke , Kitagawa Hideo , Miyoshi Takanori , Terashima Kazuhiko ,   Department of Electronic Control Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Gifu College, Gifu, Japan,   School of Mechatronic Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), Arau Perlis, Malaysia
Published: April 2017

The indoor wireless positioning system for a mobile robot employing fingerprinting technique is made in two phase, offline, i.e., collecting reference data for database, and online, i.e., matching the unknown data to those in the database. It is commonly known that the positioning accuracy is increased with the larger number of the reference locations. This has made the offline phase a tedious works, where laborious efforts are needed to construct the database. Thus, automatic database construction is desired in order to minimize the human efforts. This paper described the Signal Propagated Modified Shepard’s Method (SP-MSM) to construct the database by means of interpolating the missing wireless data using for mobile robot application. By introducing the selection probability, reference locations are identified and database is constructed. We found that over all 64 test locations, the proposed SP-MSM method outperform other interpolation method at 52% locations. In addition, the usage of low pass filter has greatly suppressed the fluctuation problem caused by unpredicted behavior of the wireless signal.
Dynamic Simulation of an Electric Stair-Climbing Wheelchair
Authors: Quaglia Giuseppe ,   Politecnico di Torino, Nisi Matteo , Franco Walter , Bruzzone Luca ,   University of Genoa, Via Opera Pia 15A, 16145 Genoa, Italy
Published: April 2017

In this paper, a novel stair-climbing wheelchair is proposed. This new architecture represents an improvement over previous designs, in particular with regards to stability and safety during stair-climbing operations. The proposed mechanical architecture is hybrid: two locomotion units based on a “rotating leg” system are coupled with an idle track. This structure satisfies many design requirements: small dimensions, reduced weight, and a stable and regular climbing trajectory. In particular, the focus of this study is the design of an actuation system, the choice of suitable control logics, and the dynamic analysis of the proposed solution. The behavior of the wheelchair was tested through multibody simulation. The simulation results show that the proposed device can climb a staircase in a stable and safe manner. Certain smart dynamic features of the wheelchair were also proven. In particular, the efficacy of the cooperative actuation system and the effectiveness of the proposed control logic were analyzed. In conclusion, the simulation results demonstrate the appropriate operation of the proposed device, which will be used to design a working prototype of the stair-climbing wheelchair.
Value Co-Creative Manufacturing with IoT-Based Smart Factory for Mass Customization
Authors: Kokuryo Daisuke ,   Graduate school of System Informatics, Kobe University, Kaihara Toshiya , Kuik Swee S. , Suginouchi Shota , Hirai Kodai
Published: April 2017

The future of productivity and growth in highly customized production environments has attracted considerable attention from numerous practitioners. Herein, we present an innovative methodology for value co-creative manufacturing with an Internet of Things (IoT)-based smart factory for mass-customized rubber products in a real-time scenario. For implementing the proposed system, a three-layer business-oriented model is developed to offer the maximum co-creative value in three-dimensional reactive-printing technology development and utilize cloud computing and cyber-physical systems in customized manufacturing and product design. A Japanese case application is examined to demonstrate the usefulness and flexibility of the proposed system.
On the Development of a Control System for a Small Bio-Methane Gas Engine Generator
Authors: Okamura Koichi ,   Churyo Engineering Co.,Ltd, Nagoya, Japan, Dong Yijun , Takahata Kenji , Yang Jianming ,   The Faculty of Science and Technology, Meijo University
Published: April 2017

In order to use the stable biomass resources that exist in rural areas, we have developed a small bio-methane gas engine generator that can be applied to various composition of bio-methane gas. Different from other conventional researches, we added auxiliary devices such as the surge tank, extra carburetor and ECU for our conventional gas engine generator, instead of alteration to the basic structure of the engine and the control method. Referred to the observation data such as the temperature, load and air-fuel ratio, we evaluated adaptability of auxiliary devices for various bio-methane compositions. The surge tank and extra carburetor are useful for getting more air and improve the mix for fuel-air. Along with various composition of bio-methane gas, the ECU could calculate the deviation of desired revolution and current revolution to adjust throttle valve angle by a PID controller, and realize the generator running stable.
Low Soil Phosphorus and Potassium Limit Soybean Grain Yield in Ohio
Authors: Brooker Aaron P. , Lindsey Laura E. , Culman Steven W. , Subburayalu Sakthi K. , Thomison Peter R.
Published: April 2017

Core Ideas

Twenty‐one percent of the soil samples were within the build‐up range for P.

Twenty‐three percent of the soil samples were within the build‐up range for K.

Soybean yield decreased when soil test P and K were within the build‐up range.

A soil survey was conducted in Ohio with the following objectives: (i) to assess the status of soil fertility; (ii) to examine soybean grain yield in areas with fertility levels in the build‐up range, where soil test levels were less than the critical level (CL); the maintenance range, where soil test levels were between the CL and maintenance limit (ML); and the drawdown range, where soil test levels were greater than the ML; and (iii) to determine if the soil test and yield data collected support the state‐established fertility recommendations. Soil sampling was conducted from 2013 through 2015 resulting in 593 total samples. Soil P, K, Ca, Mg; pH; organic matter (OM); and cation exchange capacity (CEC) were measured. Soybean grain yield was also collected from the sampling areas. Twenty‐one and 23% of the soil samples collected were within the build‐up range for P and K, respectively. On average, grain yield was 7 bu/acre lower in sampling areas associated with soil P levels in the build‐up range, whereas an average grain yield reduction of 4 bu/acre was associated with K levels in the build‐up range. In sampling areas, there was no difference in grain yield associated with soil P and K levels within the maintenance range and drawdown range. Our data suggest that soil test levels within the build‐up range were associated with lower soybean grain yields.
Metode Kuantitatif dalam Teologi Praktis
Authors: Hadiwitanto Handi
Published: April 2017

One of modern practical theology's task is what so-called descriptive-empirical task. In this sense practical theology does require an empirical approach for her reflection. Therefore practical theologians should have sufficient skills in using methods of field research. Traditionally qualitative methods have been known more among theologians. And in the same time some people suspect that quantitative methods are not suitable and cannot explain any theological problems. Some others concern and think that quantitative methods only work deductively and it is against the tradition of theology from below which normally works inductively. This essay would like to show how quantitative methods can work within theological field and give theologians an alternative approach when they want to empirically understand particular religious community. Obviously we realise that social sciences such as sociology and social psychology have developed quantitative methods in their researches for long time. In the spirit of interdisciplinary approach we owe them some explanations in running particular quantitative analyses.
Internet banking fraud alertness in the banking sector: South Africa
Authors: Dzomira Shewangu
Published: April 2017

This paper analyzes internet banking fraud alertness to the general public by the South African banking institutions. The study is centered on routine activity theory, which is a criminology theory. A qualitative content analysis was used as the research technique for the interpretation of the text data from each bank’s website through the systematic classification process of coding and identifying themes or patterns to provide an in-depth understanding of internet banking fraud alertness in the banking sector. A sample size of 13 out of 16 locally and foreign controlled retail banks in South Africa was used. The findings report that banks are not adequately providing internet fraud alertness information to the general public on their websites notwithstanding that most banks they do provide such information to log-in users and the use of that information is doubtful. This study suggests a need to augment internet banking fraud alertness information and passably inform internet banking users of the types of internet banking fraud perpetrated by internet fraudsters before they log-in for transacting. Considering the current and widespread quandary of internet banking fraud, the information of this paper is important for internet banking users to improve their aptitude in identifying fraudulent schemes and circumvent them, and for the banking institutions to invest more in the provision of internet banking fraud information to the general public.
EFEKTIFITAS METODE CERAMAH DALAM PENYAMPAIAN DAKWAH ISLAM: Studi pada Kelompok Pengajian di Perumahan Mojosongo Permai Kabupaten Boyolali
Authors: Maryatin Maryatin
Published: April 2017

This is a qualitative research that generates two discriptive forms namely people’s written or spoken and also  the behavior that can be observed. Through the qualitative approach which emphasised on the usage of observational techniques involved (participant observation) and in-depth interviews (indepth-interview) in date collection. Participant observation techniques used to obtain a detailed picture of the society condition in the residential neighbourhood of Mojosongo Permai. The results of this research showed that the implementation of payroll in the Mojosongo Permai residential neighborhood that generally has two substantial investigations, investigations of women called "study of the women’s majlis ta'lim in Mojosongo Permai" and Men’s yasinan. Men’s Yasinan held once in a month is not specified because it depends on the encountering citizens. Participants of the study that consists of women in a Moslem Residential area of  Mojosongo Permai. Time discussion executed in the afternoon after the ASR prayer. 

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Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif yang menghasilkan dua bentuk deskripsi yaitu tulisan orang atau lisan dan juga perilaku yang dapat diamati. Pendekatan kualitatif yang menekankan pada penggunaan teknik pengamatan terlibat (observasi partisipan) dan wawancara mendalam (indepth interview-) dalam mengumpulkan data. Teknik observasi partisipan digunakan untuk memperoleh gambaran rinci tentang kondisi masyarakat di lingkungan pemukiman Mojosongo Permai. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa pelaksanaan penggajian di lingkungan perumahan Mojosongo Permai terdapat dua kegiatan yaitu majlis taklim perempuan dan yasinan pria. Yasinan Pria diadakan sekali dalam satu bulan tidak ditentukan karena tergantung pada warga hadapi. Objek  studi yaitu muslimat di daerah Perumahan Mojosongo Permai yang diselenggarakan setiap sore setelah sholat ashar
Buscando la Historia en los Bosques: el papel de los macrovestigios y de la vegetación en la Mata Atlántica
Authors: Ruíz Adi Estela Lazos , Oliveira Rogério Ribeiro de , Solórzano Alexandro
Published: April 2017

El paisaje de hoy es un reflejo de usos sobrepuestos a lo largo del tiempo, cada época va dejando huellas. Los bosques suelen tomar parte de esas transformaciones y están por lo tanto marcados por la historia. En este trabajo recopilamos evidencias de usos pasados dentro del bosque de Mata Atlántica del sureste brasileño a través de macrovestigios (e.g. ruinas, caminos antiguos, etc.) y del estudio de la configuración de la vegetación (e.g. identificando especies y su estado sucesional). Utilizando la metodología de lectura del paisaje, asociamos estos elementos presentes en el bosque actual con su contexto histórico y ofrecemos una posible interpretación. De esta manera, los macrovestigios y la vegetación resultan ser particularmente útiles como “documentos” para los paisajes sin historia. El reconocimiento del valor histórico del bosque es importante para fortalecer la identidad de los pueblos y para incluirlo en medidas de gestión y conservación de los recursos.
Discursos Ambientales y Procesos de Fronterización en Patagonia-Aysén (Chile): de los paisajes de la mala hierba a los del bosque sagrado
Authors: González Andrés Núñez , Almuna Enrique Aliste , Maldonado Alvaro Bello
Published: April 2017

El texto propone compreder la frontera como el resultado de un proceso de producción social del espacio. En este contexto, el artículo plantea que el territorio de Patagonia-Aysén no es naturalmente fronterizo o marginal sino que aquella condición es el resultado de una producción histórico-geográfica que la fue constituyendo en una espacialidad periférica y que surge en relación al imaginario geográfico producido por y desde la nación. Desde este punto de vista, la agencia estatal desarrolla, mantiene y actualiza vías y estrategias a través de las cuales pueda sostener aquella interpretación fronteriza como justificación para afianzar la ilusión de un espacio homogéneo y común. Analizamos acá dos estrategias: la producción del paisaje ganadero y la del paisaje “verde”.
A Força dos Varadouros na Amazônia: o caso da comissão de obras federais do território do Acre e as estradas de rodagem (1907-1910)
Authors: Vital André Vasques
Published: April 2017

O artigo analisa a atuação da Comissão de Obras Federais do Território do Acre e as oposições locais à construção de estradas de rodagem na região. Após a anexação do Acre ao Brasil, pelo Tratado de Petrópolis de 1903, o governo federal elevou a área a condição de território federal, dividindo-a em três e, depois de 1912, quatro unidades administrativas independentes umas das outras: departamentos do Alto Acre, Alto Purus, Alto Juruá e Tarauacá. A Comissão de Obras Federais foi criada em 1907 em resposta a falta de integração física entre os departamentos. A análise das reações das elites seringalistas ao projeto de integração territorial pensado pelo governo federal é primordial nesse artigo, que aponta a força dos rios e dos varadouros nas comunicações como responsáveis pelo fracasso do projeto de rodovias e pelo fim dos trabalhos da Comissão de Obras Federais em 1910.
Diversidade e estrutura comunitária da vegetação em regeneração natural em uma área de lixão desativado
Authors: Júnior João Carlos Ferreira de Melo , Wilian Amorim Maick , Luiz Severino Alan , Novaes de Oliveira Therezinha Maria , Grace Barros Virgínia
Published: April 2017

Com o intuito de conhecer a dinâmica de regeneração de uma região degradada em que houve historicamente o acúmulo de resíduos sólidos, este estudo mostra os resultados florísticos e estruturais de uma área de lixão desativado. O levantamento da flora foi efetuado pelo método de caminhamento expedido, e a estrutura da vegetação foi determinada por meio do método de parcelas. Realizaram-se análises da qualidade da água e de metais pesados no solo. Encontraram-se 109 espécies, organizadas em 74 gêneros e 32 famílias, com predomínio de plantas de hábito herbáceo e subarbustivo. As famílias com maior número de espécies foram: Asteraceae (16), Poaceae (11) e Solanaceae (10). As espécies com maior valor de cobertura são tipicamente caracterizadas como plantas ruderais e infestantes, próprias de ambientes perturbados. A análise química do solo mostrou a presença de metais pesados em níveis baixos e aceitáveis para solos brasileiros. Dessa forma, sugere-se que a possível alteração na estrutura do solo, tornando-o pouco profundo, compactado, nutricionalmente deficitário e tóxico, pode limitar a regeneração natural da vegetação à formação herbácea, mesmo numa escala de tempo favorável ao surgimento de plantas de outros hábitos ocorrentes na formação florestal do entorno.
Balanophoraceae da Estação Ecológica do Cuniã, Porto Velho, RO, Brasil
Authors: Sampaio Adeilza Felipe , Silva Ribeiro Maira , Pansini Susamar , Marques da Cunha Maria Francisca , Gilberto Manzatto Angelo
Published: April 2017

The Balanophoraceae family constitutes as an exclusively angiosperm root holoparasite. It is one of the most representative however it has little expression in Brazilian herbaria. In this context, this study aims to provide data from the floristic inventories carried out in EcologicalCuniã Station (ESEC Cuniã – Porto Velho, RO, Brazil), where stands the Standard Research Program in Biodiversity Grade (PPBio) Cuniã, which has an area of 25 square kilometers, inserted between the interfluves of the Purus – Madeira rivers. Inventories and botanical sampling were made in 48 installments (30 upland and 18 riparian) existing in the study area. It was adopted to sample the range of 2.5 m wide by 250 m long. Balanophoraceae was represented by Helosis genus, with a single species (H. cayennensis), which was recorded in only three of the 48 installments. There were sampled 10 individuals, associated with high humidity environments and sandy soil, as a parasite of the genus Inga L.
Contribution to the knowledge of spatial movements of adult Hermann’s tortoises
Authors: Stojadinovic Dragana , Cubric Tijana , Milosevic Djuradj , Jovanovic Bogdan , Corovic Jelena , Paunovic Мomir , Crnobrnja-Isailovic Jelka
Published: April 2017

We recorded the movements of adult Eastern Hermann?s tortoises (Testudo
hermanni boettgeri) in a local population situated in a complex forested
habitat system. The average total movement range size (TMRS) calculated over
three consecutive years was 4.56 ha and 7.53 ha for males and females,
respectively. The largest estimated TMRS of male and female tortoises was 27
ha and 90 ha, respectively. Six females and three males (or 9% and 4%,
respectively, of the overall sample) had a movement range size (MRS) greater
than 10 ha. Significant differences between male and female MRS were not
detected. Body size had no influence on the MRS of individuals in the sample,
except on the core movement range size (CMRS) in males. Although the
collected data did not enable calculation of the home range in the studied
population, the results indicate that the calculated average TMRS of local
Hermann tortoises is larger than the average home range in some other
populations. Therefore, in the absence of information on the home range size
of local adult tortoises, the MRS could be a suitable alternative for
planning local species reserves.
GDF11 Attenuates Development of Type 2 Diabetes via Improvement of Islet β-Cell Function and Survival
Authors: Li Huan , Li Yixiang , Xiang Lingwei , Zhang JiaJia , Zhu Biao , Xiang Lin , Dong Jing , Liu Min , Xiang Guangda
Published: April 2017

Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) has been implicated in the regulation of islet development and a variety of aging conditions, but little is known about the physiological functions of GDF11 in adult pancreatic islets. Here, we showed that systematic replenishment of GDF11 not only preserved insulin secretion but also improved the survival and morphology of β-cells and improved glucose metabolism in both nongenetic and genetic mouse models of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Conversely, anti-GDF11 monoclonal antibody treatment caused β-cell failure and lethal T2D. In vitro treatment of isolated murine islets and MIN6 cells with recombinant GDF11 attenuated glucotoxicity-induced β-cell dysfunction and apoptosis. Mechanistically, the GDF11-mediated protective effects could be attributed to the activation of transforming growth factor-β/Smad2 and phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase–AKT–FoxO1 signaling. These findings suggest that GDF11 repletion may improve β-cell function and mass and thus may lead to a new therapeutic approach for T2D.
La Escala Latinoamericana y del Caribe sobre Seguridad Alimentaria (ELCSA): Una herramienta confiable para medir la carencia por acceso a la alimentación
Authors: Carmona Silva José Luis , Paredes Sánchez Juan Alberto , Pérez Sánchez Alfonso
Published: April 2017

Descubrir la metodología y herramientas apropiadas para medir la pobreza de manera certera ha sido un objetivo dinámico y perfectible de los investigadores interesados. El cambio conceptual de la medición de la pobreza en México -que ha pasado de ser una consideración unidimensional a una multidimensional basada en derechos sociales universales-, ha dado como resultado que el Consejo Nacional de Evaluación de la Política de Desarrollo Social (CONEVAL) desarrolle toda una metodología de la medición multidimensional de la pobreza, con la que se cuantifica la carencia social de acceso a la alimentación. La medición de esta carencia representa retos específicos ya que su relación con la Inseguridad Alimentaria es manifiesta, y las escalas de seguridad alimentaria basadas en experiencias vividas por los integrantes de un hogar, aparecidas a finales de la década de los años ochenta del siglo pasado en Estados Unidos, han demostrado que miden lo que pretenden. La ELCSA es el resultado de múltiples experiencias anteriores con escalas de medición de inseguridad alimentaria en el hogar, validadas tanto en Estados Unidos como Brasil, Colombia, México y otros países de América Latina y el Caribe. México ha adoptado la ELCSA como un instrumento para medir el acceso a la alimentación, uno de los indicadores de carencia social en su metodología para la medición multidimensional de la pobreza.
Differences using measured and calculated solar radiation in order to estimate the temperature of the conductor in overhead lines
Authors: R. Domingo  , A. González  , M. Mañana  , A. Arroyo  , M.A. Cavia  , C. del Olmo
Published: April 2017

In the last 20 years, installed wind power capacity in North of Spain has grown from 24 to more than 1,650 MW. In this geographical region, wind energy farms are located in places that are far away from the transmission networks so they have to be integrated into distribution networks. Build new overhead lines dedicated for a distribution energy is not the best way to increase the evacuation energy of the wind farms because the cost is quite strong. So, the aim to solve these issues, is by means of an increase in the capacity of existing lines using the dynamic management of the network. This paper is devoted to show the difference of the conductor temperature between the parameter of solar radiation measured by a pyranometer and the use of the theoretical solar radiation which is explained in CIGRE TB601 [1] and IEEE Std. 738-2012 [2] algorithms.
Power Quality Enhancement by DC Distribution
Authors: Elizabeth Cherian  , Bindu G. R.  , P. S. Chandramohanan Nair
Published: April 2017

Most of the electric equipment used in residential buildings operate with electric energy in the form of direct current (dc) in their internal circuits. The advent of many modern equipment in residential buildings which operate on dc has necessitated an in-depth study of their impact on the distribution system. This paper presents an analysis of the performance of distribution system if these appliances are directly supplied by dc. As a part of this investigation a prototype conventional alternating current (ac) distribution system is analysed for different combinations of utility and load conditions by simulation. A hybrid ac-dc distribution network with minimum conversion stages is proposed.
Comparison of Fuzzy and Neuro-Fuzzy Controllers for Maximum Power Point Tracking of Photovoltaic Modules
Authors: Jemaa AYMEN  , Zarrad ONS  , Aurelian CRĂCIUNESCU  , Mihai POPESCU
Published: April 2017

The paper make a comparison among two control methods for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) of a photovoltaic (PV) system under varying irradiation and temperature conditions: the fuzzy control method and the neuro-fuzzy control method. Both techniques have been simulated and analyzed by using Matlab/Simulink software. The power transitions at varying irradiation and temperature conditions are observed and the power tracking time realized by the fuzzy logic controller against the neuro fuzzy logic controller has been evaluated.
The classification of low-voltage grids with the scenario methodology
Authors: J. Teuscher  , W.Schufft
Published: April 2017

This paper shows the usage of the scenario methodology, a strategic planning tool of the economics, to classify low-voltage grids. The usage gives the result, the population density is the most relevant parameter for planning low-voltage grids. The comparison of these results with real exemplary low-voltage grids confirms this new classification methodology for this use case.
Utilization of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in Smart Grid : A Review
Authors: I. Atteya  , N. Fahmi  , D. Strickland  , H. Ashour
Published: April 2017

The uncertainty in fuel cost, the ageing of most existing grid, the lack of utilities’ supply capacity to respond to the increasing load demand, and the lack of automatically power restoration, accelerate the need to modernize the distribution network by introducing new technologies, putting the smart grid (SG) on spot. The aim of this paper is to carry out a detailed survey of the major requirements of (SG) and discuss the operational challenges arising from the integration of distributed generation (DG) in distribution networks (DN). These requirements dictate the necessity to review the energy and communication infrastructure, the automatic control, metering and monitoring systems, and highlight the features of smart protection system for a robust and efficient distribution grid. In addition, the paper aims to classify the energy storage systems (ESS) and explain their role for utilities, consumers and for environment. This includes the pumped hydro systems (PHS) and compressed air systems (CAS), battery energy storage systems (BESSs), double layer and superconductive capacitors, and electric vehicles (EVs). Since BESSs emerged as one of the most promising technology for several power applications, the paper presents an overview of their main features, management and control systems and operational modes. A survey about the utilization of BESSs in power system is presented.
Background harmonic distortion measurement at power networks with wind farms
Authors: R. Vazquez  , A. Arroyo  , M. Alonso  , H. Amaris  , C. Alvarez
Published: April 2017

Standard IEC 61400-21 specifies that background voltage distortion must be lower than the threshold limits specified in standards. However, this background distortion information is not used for calculating the real harmonic emission from the wind turbine leading to misleading voltage harmonics assessment from the wind turbine. In this paper a methodology for assessing the real harmonic emission from wind turbines is proposed based on current and voltage measurements where the background harmonic distortion at the Point of Common Coupling is considered.
Management of Sources and Loads in a Smart Grid
Authors: S A. Tadjer  , I. Habi  , M. El Ganaoui  , S. Angel
Published: April 2017

Currently the targets set by the European Union in terms of decreasing CO2 emissions, a change in the energy sector rule applies and this translates into more efficient use of renewable energy sources and the need to move towards a smarter grid. For this purpose, integrating the networks of the new information and communications technology will make communicating and will take into account the actions of the players in the electrical system, while ensuring a more efficient delivery of electricity, economically viable and safe. In this paper an algorithm was validated by virtual simulation, conducted validation shows that the intelligent energy manager allows the erasure of peak demand therefore save on overall energy costs while achieving technical and regulatory constraints. An algorithm of control/command, various scenarios for managing devices connected to networks has been validated by simulation.
Techniques of CCHP as a right way to apply the 2nd Law of Thermodynamic: case study (Part Two)
Authors: Francesco Patania  , Antonio Gagliano  , Francesco Nocera  , Agrifoglio Antonio
Published: April 2017

Through data of consumption of various kinds of energy expected for operational EES as in executive design, it was possible to calculate the amount of air polluting emission (CO2, NOx, PM10) produced by energy plants. Similarly it was possible to calculate emissions of the same amount of energy wasted by CH but in the case of energy supply by conventional technologies and plants. “Part two“ of paper shows the result of comparison between emission coming from operational EES and emission in the case of energy supply by conventional technologies and plants. Results demonstrate how much pollution energy supply by EES takes away, that is the environmental advantages achieved.
Behaviour of small scale dispersed PV generation
Authors: Péter Kádár
Published: April 2017

The spread over of the small scale PhotoVoltaic plants requires a central production forecast. The regional meteorological information is not suitable for individual production calculation. We investigated the behaviour of the PV plants in different regions. We have also been looking for the relation between daily irradiation and energy production. We start from a basic assumption then we visualize the appropriate series of data and we calculate the correlation or other factors. Finally we confirm or neglect the initial idea. The geographical extent has significant effect on the daily cumulated production curve. The co-running of the daily power peak in a region is really strict but it has no correlation with the daily irradiation. The daily irradiation is proportional with the daily electricity production. The individual production forecast is not really viable that is why aggregation is necessary. The area of the whole country must be handled by regions.
Dynamic model of a solar powered absorption refrigeration system
Authors: A. Gómez-Moreno  , J.M. Palomar-Carnicero  , F. Cruz-Peragón
Published: April 2017

This paper focuses on the analysis of a dynamic simulation model used to describe the operation of a solar cooling system located in Jaén (Spain). The dynamic model has been developed using the simulation environment TRNSYS. The main goal of this paper has been to analyze separately the dynamic behaviour of each components of the installation and have been shown the differences between the temperatures of input and output of each of them, discussing and justifying the phenomena that appear. During the analysis phase and using and detailed model of the solar cooling system, it has been dedicated a special interest in showing the differences in all components between the initial transitional period and the period of stabilization of their operation.
Novel conductor design to increase the thermal rating of overhead lines
Authors: J.C. del-Pino-López  , D. Garrido-García  , P. Cruz-Romero  , A. Gómez-Expósito
Published: April 2017

In this paper the performance of existing and novel designs of overhead bare conductors with regard to their capacity to evacuate the heat generated by ohmic losses is compared. The effect of both the diameter of strands and the external shape of the conductor on the convective heat transfer capacity are evaluated with a finite element method commercial software for an ACSR conductor with different diameter strands, wind velocities and conductor current, resulting in a design that improves the customary design by around a 7 % of thermal rating.
Corporate Spheres of Responsibility: Architects, Cowboys, and Eco-Warriors in Myanmar’s Oil & Gas Industry
Authors: Strasser Hillary
Published: April 2017

Myanmar's recently opened economy is flush with incoming investment and activity. World leaders advocate that all businesses entering the country must operate in a "socially responsible manner." However, the history of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in Myanmar is undefined, contradictory, and complex. Thus, to get a handle around what it means to be “responsible,” this paper investigates the collective way in which actors in the petroleum industry in Myanmar enact CSR from 1990 to 2014. The oil and gas (O&G) industry is the most lucrative, and arguably powerful, national sector. The practice and philosophy of CSR, which originated in this industry, is now proclaimed to be the starting point for this newly charted course of responsible business in Myanmar. Yet, activists and critics maintain that CSR is an insincere PR measure of profit maximization whereby companies can conduct business as normal. I argue that CSR in the Myanmar petroleum industry is influenced by more complex factors than profit maximization or image management. CSR initiatives are sculpted by (1) the geography of petroleum extraction, (2) corporate philosophies and company national origins, and (3) type of company operations. The petroleum industry’s CSR activities to date, in terms of geographic span and development targets, all fit into a spectrum of assumed spheres of corporate responsibility that have been forged by the corporate ‘architects’ and tempered by geographic and global forces.
The Use of Polydioxanone Plates for Endoscopic Skull Base Repair
Authors: Al-Asousi Fahad , Okpaleke Christopher , Dadgostar Anali , Javer Amin
Published: April 2017

Background

Many reconstructive techniques and materials have been reported for repair of skull base defects after sinonasal tumor excision, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks, and coverage of denuded bone. Synthetic materials have been developed for endoscopic skull base repair to avoid donor-site morbidity. Polydioxanone plate is a bioabsorbable implant designed for nasal septal reconstruction and has the ability to retain strength for at least 10 weeks and absorbs in 6 months.

Objectives

This study aimed to describe the use of polydioxanone plates in endoscopic skull base defect and CSF leak repair, and to describe our experience with the surgical technique and postoperative management.

Methods

This was a retrospective case series of patients who, between May 2013 and December 2015, underwent endoscopic sinus surgery and skull base repair for CSF leak or after excision of a skull base tumor by using polydioxanone plates. Patients who presented with sinonasal inflammatory disease or skull base tumors underwent endoscopic skull base repair by using polydioxanone plates in an underlay fashion and mucosal membrane grafts with or without adjuvant materials in an overlay fashion. The patients were reviewed at 6 days, 6 weeks, and 3 months after surgery. Postoperative adverse events, including CSF leak, infection, bleeding, headache, and graft failure, were recorded.

Results

The cases of seven patients (five women, two men; mean age, 53.9 years) were reviewed. Five patients underwent sinonasal tumor resection and two underwent repair for CSF leak. The mean (standard deviation) defect size was 16.4 ± 11.4 mm. There was no evidence of postoperative CSF leak, and lumbar drains were not used. One patient reported transient headache and facial pressure at the 6-week follow-up visit. The surgeons’ experience with polydioxanone plate placement, postoperative healing, and follow-up was satisfactory.

Conclusion

Polydioxanone could be used to achieve rigid repair of endoscopic skull base defects. These early results, although promising, require validation in clinical trials.
Cigarette Smoke Extract Increases Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Production via TLR4/ROS/MAPKs/NF-kappaB Pathway in Nasal Fibroblast
Authors: Shin Jae-Min , Park Joo-Hoo , Kim Hwee-Jin , Park Il-Ho , Lee Heung-Man
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Cigarette smoke is a complex mixture of various chemical compounds, including free radicals and highly toxic compounds. Cigarette smoke exposure has been shown to be associated with chronic rhinosinusitis and tissue remodeling in upper airway. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the cytokines with a crucial role in tissue remodeling of airway. The aims of this study were to determine the effects of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) on VEGF expression and to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms of CSE in nasal fibroblasts.

Methods

Nasal fibroblasts were stimulated with CSE. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by 3-(4,5- dimethylthiazol-2yl)-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide assay. The expression level of VEGF was measured using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Messenger RNA (mRNA) expression level of TLR4 were determined by RT-PCR. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) for TLR4 was transfected to suppress TLR4 expression. Activation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was analyzed by using dichlorodihydro-fluorescein diacetate assay. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and NF-kappaB activations were determined by using western blot and/or luciferase assay.

Results

CSE had no significant cytotoxic effect in nasal fibroblast up to 5%. CSE significantly increased both VEGF mRNA and protein expression dose-dependently. The down-regulation of TLR4 transcription by siRNA treatment suppressed CSE-induced expressions of both TLR4 and VEGF. Pretreatment with ROS scavengers, specific inhibitors of each MAPK, and NF-kappaB inhibitor significantly decreased CSE-induced VEGF expression.

Conclusions

CSE has a stimulatory effect on VEGF expression through the TLR4, ROS, MAPK, and NF-kappaB signaling pathway in nasal fibroblasts.
Presentation, Workup, and Management of Penetrating Transorbital and Transnasal Injuries: A Case Report and Systematic Review
Authors: Ghadersohi Saied , Ference Elisabeth H. , Detwiller Kara , Kern Robert C.
Published: April 2017

Background

A foreign body (FB) penetrating intracranially after passing transorbitally or transnasally is a rare occurrence. However, otolaryngologists are increasingly being asked to participate in the care of these patients for both endoscopic removal of the object and repair of any skull base defects.

Objective

To assess the presentation, workup, and management of transnasal or transorbital penetrating FB injury.

Methods

Systematic review of the presentation, workup, and management of transnasal or transorbital penetrating FB injury; plus, a case report of a 53-year-old woman with a transorbital penetrating rose bush branch. We searched medical literature data bases, which resulted in 215 total titles, which were then narrowed based on inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results

Thirty-five cases of transorbital or transnasal low-velocity trauma that involved the paranasal sinuses were reviewed from 33 articles. The average age was 30 years, 40% of the objects were made of wood. Fifty-seven percent of the cases were transorbital, whereas 43% were transnasal. Forty-six percent of the surgical interventions were completed endoscopically or with endoscopic assistance. Complications of injury were common, with 66% of patients experiencing cerebrospinal fluid leaks; 23%, permanent blindness; 17%, meningitis; 14%, ophthalmoplegia; 9%, decreased visual acuity; and 3%, brain abscess. Our patient presented with a traumatic cerebrospinal fluid leak, and recovered well after transorbital and endoscopic removal of the branch, skull base repair, and a prolonged course of antibiotics and antifungal medications.

Conclusions

Transnasal and transorbital penetrating FB injuries are a relatively uncommon occurrence but when they do occur require rapid workup and interdisciplinary management to prevent acute and delayed complications.
Predictors of hepatitis B vaccination status in healthcare workers in Belgrade, Serbia, December 2015
Authors: Kisic-Tepavcevic Darija , Kanazir Milena , Gazibara Tatjana , Maric Gorica , Makismovic Natasa , Loncarevic Goranka , Pekmezovic Tatjana
Published: April 2017

Despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine since 1982, overall coverage of hepatitis B vaccination among healthcare workers (HCWs) has not reached a satisfactory level in many countries worldwide. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of hepatitis B vaccination, and to assess the predictors of hepatitis B vaccination status among HCWs in Serbia. Of 380 randomly selected HCWs, 352 (92.6%) were included in the study. The prevalence of hepatitis B vaccination acceptance was 66.2%. The exploratory factor analyses using the vaccination-refusal scale showed that items clustered under ‘threat of disease’ explained the highest proportion (30.4%) of variance among those declining vaccination. The factor analyses model of the potential reasons for receiving the hepatitis B vaccine showed that ‘social influence’ had the highest contribution (47.5%) in explaining variance among those vaccinated. In the multivariate adjusted model the following variables were independent predictors of hepatitis B vaccination status: occupation, duration of work experience, exposure to blood in the previous year, and total hepatitis B-related knowledge score. Our results highlight the need for well-planned national policies, possibly including mandatory hepatitis B immunisation, in the Serbian healthcare environment.