bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Optimal Sizing of a Solar Thermal Building: A Novel Approach
Authors: Parsania Shahrzad
Published: October 2018

Within the last decade, domestic energy management has gained a lot of attention. As the complexity of the solar thermal system in terms of the number of system components and energy sources increases, understanding how to manage the cooperation of all the components in order to improve the global efficiency measurements is of crucial importance. Here, the question is how to define an optimal size of the main components in a solar thermal system in order to minimize system cost. Unlike the existing approaches, we propose the use of a novel algorithm called Gravitational Search Algorithm (GSA) to analyze the accurate sizing of energy components, i.e. collector size, tank volume and Auxiliary Power Unit (APU). The objective is to maximize solar fraction, minimize the energy consumption and installation costs subject to constraints. Our proposed GSA model is evaluated and compared with one of the most well-known algorithms, Particle Swarm optimization (PSO) taking into account the fundamental system characteristics. Numerical results show that our proposed methodology significantly improves energy efficiency and reduces operational cost of the solar thermal system in contemporary built environment.
The Basics of Quadcopter Anatomy
Authors: Šustek Michal , Úředníček Zdeněk
Published: October 2018

Variations of un-maned vehicles or drones are widely used in diverse fields, including monitoring or manipulation with dangerous substances. One of the best drone construction, which can be used in these fields is an X-copter. This paper serves as an introduction to basics of quadcopter anatomy and advice to choose components based on their properties. In addition, it shown variants of connection between microcontroller and motors for test purpose and an example of programming. This information can be used in education process or for those who want to use a microcontroller Raspberry in their work.
Modeling of the ecological separation process of printed circuit boards
Authors: Janačová Dagmar , Vašek Vladimír , Pitel’ Ján , Vítečková Miluše , Drga Rudolf , Křenek Jiří , Líška Ondrej
Published: October 2018

The content of this paper is the modeling of the stress in the printed circuit board due to the cyclic thermal stress for its ecological recycling. Cyclic thermal stresses result in separation of copper conduction paths and plastic plates due to different longitudinal expansion. For separation, it was important to determine the minimum temperature of the cyclical changes to separate the conductive copper paths and the plastic. We use mathematical modeling tools to describe the course of temperature fields in the PCB during heating and reheating. We conducted some simulation experiments in the Pro/ENGINEER programming environment to know the waveforms and stresses of the PCBs during the cyclic loading cycle. From experiments conducted in the laboratory, we have verified that the process of temperature separation is feasible for designing an eco-friendly way of recycling PCBs.
Heart Rate monitor based on IP networking
Authors: Molina Miguel G. , Garzón Priscila E. , Molina Carolina J. , Nicola Juan X.
Published: October 2018

With the uprising of Internet of Things (IoT) networks, new applications have taken advantage of this new concept. Having all devices and all people connected 24/7 have several advantages in a variated amount of disciplines. One of them is medicine and the e-health concept. The possibility of having a real time lecture of the vital signs of people can prevent a live threat situation. This paper describes the realization of a device capable of measuring the heart rate of a person and checking for abnormalities that may negatively affect the patient’s well-being. This project will make use of electronic devices known as microcontrollers, specifically from the Arduino family, enabling us to capture data, and, with the help of a network card and a RJ-45 cable, transfer it to a PC and visualize the heart rate in real time over its assigned IP address.
Hierarchical predictive control of Wastewater Treatment Plants
Authors: Nascu Ioan
Published: October 2018

This paper investigates the performance of a new predictive control approach used to improve the energy efficiency and effluent quality of a conventional Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). A two-layer hierarchical control structure is proposed: process control as a lower layer and a higher layer of optimization. The Activated Sludge Process (ASP) optimization using the proposed approach provides an improved aeration system efficiency to reduce energy costs while maintaining the quality parameters of the effluent. The control strategy is evaluated by performing simulations and analyzing the results. The regulatory performances have been tested and the effects of several tuning parameters are investigated.
Evaluating through mathematical modelling the power equipment busbars electrodynamic strength under sudden short-circuit conditions
Authors: Bulucea Cornelia A. , Brindusa Constantin , Nicola Doru A. , Mastorakis Nikos E. , Bulucea Carmen A. , Dondon Philippe
Published: October 2018

The electrodynamic strength, as forces acting between the current-carrying electric circuits are exerted as long as the currents exist, and have the tendency of deformation and displacement of the circuits. In short-circuit regimes the strength in electrical equipment becomes severe. For instance, short-circuits highly affect power transformers connected to power transmission lines. The effects are also strong because of mechanical deformations occurring in the power transformer connection part. In line with this idea, in this paper it is made an analytical study upon the a.c. single-phase and a.c. three-phase electric circuits, taking into account the current instantaneous maximum value. The paper also entails numerical simulations of electrodynamic strength in power transformer busbars under short-circuit conditions. MATLAB software, with its specific extensions, enable simulation models to generate the charts of the electrodynamic forces in the power transformer connection bars.
Wind or Hydro Homo-Heteropolar Synchronous Generators: Equivalent Magnetic Circuit and FEM Analysis
Authors: Deaconu Sorin Ioan , Topor Marcel , Tutelea Lucian Nicolae , Nucă Ilie , Burduniuc Marcel
Published: October 2018

In an effort to introduce a low cost (PM less), low power electric wind or hydro generators, this paper reports on preliminary design aspects, equivalent magnetic circuit and 3D FEM analysis of a 2.5 KVA, 250-1000 rpm, reactive homo-heteropolar brushless synchronous machine (RHHBSM).
Model of the control system of national economic security
Authors: Olejniczak Jarosław
Published: October 2018

The article outlines a diagnostic model for controlling the national economic security. The diagnostic approach was characterized as the tool for assessing economic security and availability of means. The author described dynamic CLD (Casual Loop Diagram) models with respect to diagnostic testing of financial security and availability of strategic means, and then discussed critical elements that should be taken into consideration while calibrating both models.
Economic assessment and optimizing of the solar water heating system
Authors: Skovajsa Jan , Zálešák Martin
Published: October 2018

The article deals with the economic evaluation of investment and optimization of the solar water heating system for family houses. From the point of view of solar systems, the optimal solution is based on the specific application of it. The design is dependent on the location of solar thermal collectors and ration between active aperture area and real daytime consumption. Common calculations according to actual standards often give overstated results, which also reflected in the value of the investments. The article presents the research of optimal parameters of the thermal solar system for preparing of domestic hot water. A combination of related standards and software TRNSYS are used to find optimal parameters. Thanks to created and verified simulation models, it is possible to design parameters so as to avoid under-dimensioning or over-dimensioning of the solar system. Energy price is another factor affects the payback period of investments. This is affected by the used energy sources and their combination. For example, buildings that use electricity to heat water or heating have different energy charges than a building that uses natural gas. So, the aim is to find technically and economically efficient solution.
The analysis of crisis management information system in the selected states
Authors: Vichova Katerina , Hromada Martin
Published: October 2018

This paper focuses on crisis management information systems in the selected states. The aim of this article is to analyse the selected information systems and prepare a comparison of them. The first part of the article deals with the concept of crisis management information systems in different countries. Secondly, the paper deals with the idea of crisis management information systems in different countries. Thirdly, the article deals with information systems of crisis management in the Czech Republic. These systems are further solved using a suitably chosen method. Fourthly, the paper deals with information systems in three selected countries abroad. These states were intentionally selected according to their type and according to the diversity of territories and threatening events in these states. Next part describes the suitably chosen methods of work. Heuristic usability analyses are among the most significant. This analysis is focused on detecting the strengths and weaknesses of tested systems. The following chapter aims to introduce the results of the tested crisis management information systems. The last section summarizes the entire paper and suggests solutions for these systems.
Extended Capabilities of the Power Quality Management System of the Power Distribution Grid for Data Exchange
Authors: Rusinaru Denisa , Popirlan Claudiu , Stoian Gabriel , Buzatu Cosmin , Negoita Andrei , Manescu Leonardo Geo , Cojoaca Adrian , Mircea Mihai
Published: October 2018

The actual operation of the power distribution systems asks for high power quality (PQ). This fully justifies the investments in improving the metrics of power grid performances. But maintaining a PQ data infrastructure in a numerous locations is time-consuming and prohibitive. Moreover, each PQ monitor releases its own data format. These considerations justified using of a central PQ management system able to manipulate elliptical and time discontinuous information. The paper presents the characteristics of a webbased application designed to collect the data measured with different technologies of monitors and translate them into a common PQ data interchange format allowing comprehensive and long-duration grid operation assessment. The unitary formatted data generated by this customized software tool can be further processed by a proprietary software platform for PQ management owned by the network operator. The present version of this conversion tool is applicable only for one product family operating in the local power distribution grid. Further development is planned for integrating other two monitor vendors/families.
Hysteresis in Hole-free Perovskite Solar Cells with Carbon Counter Electrode Doped Reduced Graphene Oxide (RGO)
Authors: Basheer Mohammed , Soliman Moataz , Ibrahim Shakir , Gasmalla Khalid , Salam Wessam Abdel
Published: October 2018

Perovskite solar cells achieved high efficiencies but they suffer from the hysteresis of (J-V) curve that depends on the scan direction. The architecture introduced in this paper is hole –free cell with Reduced Graphene Oxide (RGO) as a dopant. The good electrical and optical properties of (RGO) make it acts as a hole transfer layer (HTL) beside its basic role as a dopant of carbon counter electrode. For different areas, the hysteresis decreases by decreasing the cell area. The TiO2/CH3NH3PbI3-xClx interface is truly responsible for the hysteresis in the Perovskite solar cells due to the dependence of the porosity from area to other.
Virtual reality environment to study the ergonomic features of firefighters’ activity
Authors: Nowicki Tadeusz , Koszela Jarosław , Matuszelański Łukasz
Published: October 2018

This work considers the problem of studying the strategy of equipment location on the firefighting vehicle. A unified firefighter’s vehicle Euro Truck is being designed. The problem of location the emergency equipment on the vehicle is very important from the point of view of firefighters ergonomic. It is consider two ergonomic criterion functions: how long is the distance of horizontal and vertical displacement of equipment during its unloading. The third ergonomic criterion is optimization of firefighters work time. These criteria lead to a reduction in the physical load of firefighters’ bodies. Computer simulation, including virtual reality, allows for a very detailed study of the work of firefighters during the removal of equipment from the vehicle. A simulation environment with virtual reality was built and tested in order to measure ergonomic criteria during firefighters’ work in a rescue operation for various action scenarios.
Analyse of Measurement Based Admission Control Methods in IMS Networks and Simulation Principle
Authors: Chromy Erik , Simoncik Tomas , Holiencin Marek , Baronak Ivan
Published: October 2018

This paper deals with the quality of service in IP Multimedia Subsystem networks. The evaluation of Quality o Service (QoS) is done through admission control methods. We analyse various methods, which are based on the traffic measurement. The approach that can be applied in finding the suitable admission control method while considering selected QoS parameters is described. Different important QoS parameters can be defined, however we decided to focus on the loss parameter. In our simulations we have used Simple Sum method. Based on the simulation results, we have used new algorithm. The main difference is that it uses the mechanism of time window for achieving more accurate traffic estimate. Algorithm Measured Sum with implementation of time window T has better ability to predict the traffic fluctuation. Compared to the Simple Sum algorithm it achieves lower link utilisation, but also lower level of loss ratio.
Possibilities of security measures in museums in the czech republic
Authors: Tomastik Marek , Vichova Katerina , Hoke Eva , Pfeffer Erik
Published: October 2018

The threat of theft of works of art, antiques and books which are always being stolen from museums, galleries and archives in the Czech Republic, as well as abroad, remains present. Given the existence of the current stolen objects markets and the fact that artefacts keep their value which grows in time, theft will continue into the future. Thus, the security of museum collections and buildings is a pressing issue. It is, therefore, important to seek modern, secure and cheap solutions for the smaller museums in the Czech Republic. This paper describes the current state of security in the Czech Republic and proposes appropriate solutions of the problem of security in museums and galleries. The situation is very critical in some museum areas. Historic heritage is not sufficiently protected. The present study solves the analysis of the state of the historical heritage at present. The protection of the historical heritage is better than the Velvet Revolution. The article deals with the protection of monuments currently, analyzes the current security situation in museums in the Czech Republic and suggests a solution that would improve the future security of artefacts. Faculty of Logistics and Crisis Management prepares a workplace to help museums work with risks.
Stenosis Detection with Deep Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Antczak Karol , Liberadzki Łukasz
Published: October 2018

Recent popularity of deep learning methods inspires to find new applications for them. One of promising areas is medical diagnosis support, especially analysis of medical images. In this paper we explore the possibility of using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks (DCNN) for detection of stenoses in angiographic images. One of the biggest difficulties is a need for large amounts of labelled data required to properly train deep model. We demonstrate how to overcome this difficulty by using generative model producing artificial data. Test results shows that DCNN trained on artificial data and fine-tuned using real samples can achieve up to 90% accuracy, exceeding results obtained by both traditional, feed-forward networks and networks trained using real data only.
Effective design and implementation of specific displacement diagrams to control kinetic sculptures
Authors: Dostrašil Pavel
Published: October 2018

Electronic cams are used for different manufacturing systems, but in terms of displacement diagrams, they have common characteristics. The emphasis is usually placed on maximum accuracy, minimum machine cycle time and the displacement diagram has a simple shape. This paper addresses a completely different case, which shows that the use of electronic cams is very diverse. An Omron’s electronic cam was used to control kinetic art sculptures. It was necessary to develop an implementation that would be able to accommodate a large number of very long and complex displacement diagrams. Some sculptures contained up to 147 interpolating axes and their programs took up to an hour. The proposal builds on the basic animation and designer’s demands, but it must comply with all the limits of the mechanism (maximum speed, torque, etc.). For this purpose, an independent software tool was developed. The final displacement diagram is composed from polynomial of the 5th order by defining the 0th, 1st, and 2nd derivatives at the key points. This method of design has proved to be very effective, and in addition, this implementation brought a significant saving of memory and reduction of computational complexity.
Analysis of the scores of competency test
Authors: Pasáčková Jana
Published: October 2018

Since decreasing level of knowledge of mathematics is the problem at universities, not only in the Czech Republic, we try to define some reasons for that between our students from different secondary schools. The paper discusses the results of the examinations in mathematics at the university in the Czech Republic. The aim is focused on the differences between the scores of students from different secondary schools. We compare the results of two tests which students have to pass during the semester. In addition, we compare the impact of introducing a new subject called “Math seminar”. This seminar should help students to complete their knowledge of topics from mathematics of secondary schools. We observe the improvement of students who passed the Math seminar. We observe the impact of passing the school-leaving exam from mathematics as well. We would like to consider this as a part of a long-term monitoring of students in this study programme and re-analyze unsuccessful students after they pass the course “Math seminar”.
Graph Method for Prioritizing Capabilities of the Armed Forces
Authors: Kasprzyk Rafal , Tarapata Zbigniew
Published: October 2018

The paper presents a novel method to prioritize capabilities of Polish Armed Forces, used in one of the most important stages of planning process i.e. “Required Capabilities Assessment and Prioritization”. The current approach to planning and programming of the capabilities development of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland is executed on the basis of the so-called operational capabilities. The operational capability is defined as “potential competence, feature of an entity resulting from its characteristics, allowing to undertake actions aimed at producing the desired effects”. The elements of functional operational capabilities are as follows: doctrines, organization, training, military equipment, human resources, leadership, infrastructure and interoperability. The capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland de facto determine executability of the military tasks. In the paper capability dependency graph model was presented and centrality measures were described in details, which are the basis for prioritization method. To manage the capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland, the software for prioritizing capabilities consisting of the Editor of the Capabilities Directory and Prioritization of Capabilities component, was developed and described in the paper.
Distributed processing in virtual simulation using Cloud Computing Environment
Authors: Koszela Jarosław , Szymczyk Maciej
Published: October 2018

Today’s hardware has computing power allowing to conduct virtual simulation. However, even the most powerful machine may not be sufficient in case of using models characterized by high precision and resolution. Switching into constructive simulation causes the loss of details in the simulation. Nonetheless, it is possible to use the distributed virtual simulation in the cloud-computing environment. The aim of this paper is to propose a model that enables the scaling of the virtual simulation. The aspects on which the ability to disperse calculations depends were presented. A commercial SpatialOS solution was presented and performance tests were carried out. The use of distributed virtual simulation allows the use of more extensive and detailed simulation models using thin clients. In addition, the presented model of the simulation cloud can be the basis of the “Simulation-as-a-Service” cloud computing product.
Performance of Machine Learning Algorithms and Diversity in Data
Authors: SUG Hyontai
Published: October 2018

Recent world events in go games between human and artificial intelligence called AlphaGo showed the big advancement in machine learning technologies. While AlphaGo was trained using real world data, AlphaGo Zero was trained using massive random data, and the fact that AlphaGo Zero won AlphaGo completely revealed that diversity and size in training data is important for better performance for the machine learning algorithms, especially in deep learning algorithms of neural networks. On the other hand, artificial neural networks and decision trees are widely accepted machine learning algorithms because of their robustness in errors and comprehensibility respectively. In this paper in order to prove that diversity and size in data are important factors for better performance of machine learning algorithms empirically, the two representative algorithms are used for experiment. A real world data set called breast tissue was chosen, because the data set consists of real numbers that is very good property for artificial random data generation. The result of the experiment proved the fact that the diversity and size of data are very important factors for better performance.
Markov chain for heart failure diagnostic decision model with irregular Thoracic Fluid Content measurements
Authors: Moszczyński Paweł , Walczak Andrzej
Published: October 2018

Properties of results obtained on Markov processes analysis in medical applications have been illustrated. Calculation was done for measurement of Thoracic Fluid Content by means of impedance cardiograph for chosen medical patients population. Main medical aspect of Markov chain calculation has been underlined to exhibit some constraints in decision making with such math models. Markov chain analysis was done as optimization task. Effective algorithm for irregular data in continuous time has been proposed.
A numerical simulation of static stiffness and strength of circular saw blade
Authors: Bílek Ondřej , Šuba Oldřich , Bad’urová Jitka
Published: October 2018

The paper deals with the evaluation of the static stiffness and strength, which are critical parameters affecting the stability of the machining process but also the safety and durability of the wood cutting tools. Circular saw blade models for the purpose of computer numerical simulation were proposed using finite element methods, and verified in earlier research. Deformation response was observed, depending on the input parameters correlating to the saw blade woodworking conditions. The strength of the saw blade was compared with the different clamping methods and different thickness of the circular saw blade. An article gives a disturbing finding how minor change in the quality of the circular saw blade clamping, specifically one degree of misalignment, leads to critical states and probable cause of damage.
Analysis of Performance Metrics Using Emotiv EPOC+
Authors: Strmiska Martin , Koudelkova Zuzana
Published: October 2018

Brain-computer interface (BCI) is a device that enables the connection between the human brain and a computer, therefore, it allows us to observe the brain activity. The goal of this article is to prove that brain-computer interface is a helpful and quite precise tool. This goal will be achieved by presenting various examples from real-life situations. The results show that this device is indeed helpful, e.g. in a medical field, however, it is not commonly used in hospitals.
Tensile impact behaviour of 3D printed parts on FFF/FDM printer Zortrax M200
Authors: Mizera Ales , Bednarik Martin , Mizera Martin , Tomanova Katarina , Mohorko Martin
Published: October 2018

To obtain the deeper knowledge about the mechanical behaviour of 3D printed polymeric materials it is necessary to study the material properties from the beginning to the end. The commonly processed polymeric materials (via injection moulding etc.) are already deeply studied and evaluated, but 3D printed specimens in the various orientation build are not yet. In this study the tensile impact test specimens were fabricated via a desktop material extrusion 3D printer Zortrax M200 processing ABS and HIPS in build orientation XY. The 3D printed tensile impact test specimens were examined to compare the effect of layer thickness. Impact pendulum Zwick HIT50P was used for tensile impact tests according to ISO 8256 standard. Optical microscopy was utilized to perform fractography on impact test specimens to explore the effect of the layer thickness on the fracture surface morphology of the failed specimens. This study demonstrates the need for material testing for specific processing as additive manufacturing technologies.
Local search for parallel optimization algorithms for high diminsional optimization problems
Authors: Abd-Alsabour Nadia
Published: October 2018

Local search algorithms perform an important role when being employed with optimization algorithms tackling numerous optimization problems since they lead to getting better solutions. However, this is not practical in many applications as they do not contribute to the search process. This was not much studied previously for traditional optimization algorithms or for parallel optimization algorithms. This paper investigates this issue for parallel optimization algorithms when tackling high dimensional subset problems. The acquired results show impressive recommendations.
Trilattice-Based Access Control Models: How to Secure Current Computer Network
Authors: Kucherov Mikhail M. , Bogulskaya Nina A.
Published: October 2018

Designing security, from the hardware level, is essential to ensure the integrity of the intelligent cyber-physical infrastructure that is the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). If intelligent cyber-physical infrastructure fails to do the right things because it is insecure and vulnerable, then there will be negative social consequences [1]. Security is, in a sense, the access control to IIoT systems, which increasingly relies on the ability to compose different policies. Therefore, the advantage in any framework for compiling policies is that it is intuitive, formal, expressive, application-independent, as well as expandable to create domain-specific instances. Recently, such a scheme was proposed based on Belnap logic FOUR2 [2]. Four values of the Belnap bilattice have been interpreted as grant, deny, conflict, or unspecified with respect to access-control policy. Belnap’s four-valued logic has found a variety of applications in various fields, such as deductive database theory, distributed logic programming, and other areas. However, it turns out that the truth order in FOUR2 is a truth-and-falsity order at the same time [3]. The smallest lattice, where the orders of truth and falsity are independent of each other, which is especially important for security policy, is that of Shramko-Wansing’s SIXTEEN3. This generalization is well-motivated and leads from the bilattice FOUR2 with an information and a truth-and-falsity ordering to another algebraic structure, namely the trilattice SIXTEEN3 with an information ordering together with a truth ordering and a (distinct) falsity ordering.Based onSIXTEEN3 and new Boolean predicates to control access [4], we define an expressive access-control policy language, having composition statements based on the statements of Schramko-Wansing’s logic. Natural orderings on politics are obtained by independent lifting the orders of truth and falsity of trilattice, which results in a query language in which conflict freedom analysis can be developed. The reduction of formal verification of queries to that on predicates over access requests enables to carry out policy analysis. We evaluate our approach through examples of control access model policy.
Tacit Knowledge Transfer in Australian Universities: Exploring the Barriers and Enablers
Authors: Chugh Ritesh
Published: October 2018

As organisational knowledge is greatly dependant on the tacit knowledge that its employees possess, it is important to pursue strategies that encourage sharing of employees’ tacit knowledge. However, tacit knowledge sharing can be better promoted by understanding the barriers and enablers of tacit knowledge transfer. As universities are seen as the flag-bearers of knowledge creation and dissemination, this paper focuses on identifying the barriers and enablers of tacit knowledge transfer in universities. A qualitative research method was utilised for this study in which interviews of academics from four Australian universities were carried out. The reporting of data is based on a structured interpretative approach drawing demonstrative examples from the interview transcripts. The findings suggest that human, social and culture factors are addressed to ensure successful transfer of tacit knowledge. For effective transfer of tacit knowledge, universities need to create conditions that strengthen the enablers and suppress the barriers.
Effects of music playing on biological molecules
Authors: Algieri Catia , Guarnaccia Claudio , Barone Vincenzo , Gullo Maria Raffaella , Donato Laura
Published: October 2018

In this work the effect of two different musical pieces (called “Reminiscenza” and “Pioggia”) on the tyrosinase enzyme activity was investigated. The l-DOPA production by the enzymatic reaction was measured during the continuous playing of these musical pieces. Experiments were performed in the laboratories of the Institute of Membrane Technology (ITM) of the Italian National Council for Research (CNR). The results showed that a positive effect was exercised by the “Reminiscenza” piece, which determined an increase of the specific activity about of 30 % with respect to the value measured in the absence of sound. On the contrary, “Pioggia” piece had a detrimental effect on the enzymatic process. In particular, a time lag on the l-DOPA production, during the first minutes of the reaction, was detected. After this period, an increase of the reaction velocity occurred even if the enzyme activity was lower than the value obtained in the absence of music. These results show that the peculiar characteristics of a musical piece can exercise a positive or negative action on biological elements and open the way to further studies in this area.
The multiaxial behavior of filled polypropylene parts by drop-weight impact test
Authors: Mizera Ales , Mizera Martin , Navratil Milan , Sanda Stepan , Opocensky Michal
Published: October 2018

This study deals with the multiaxial behaviour of reinforced polypropylene with 30 % of glass fibre (PP30GF) and virgin polypropylene (PP). The impact behavior of these two materials is very needed to know for the possible modification of these two materials to obtain the better material properties. The injection moulded PP, and PP30GF samples were subjected to the penetration test at different set potential energies, and the results were subsequently evaluated and discussed. It was found out that PP has better behaviour at the multiaxial stress than PP30GF. It is possible to claim that for the application more demanding to the impact loading, pure PP is more suitable choice of the polymeric material.
Architectural concepts for managing biomedical sensor data utilised for medical diagnosis and patient remote care.
Authors: Chmielewski Mariusz , Frąszczak Damian , Bugajewski Dawid
Published: October 2018

This paper discusses experiences and architectural concepts developed and tested aimed at acquisition and processing of biomedical data in large scale system for elderly (patients) monitoring. Major assumptions for the research included utilisation of wearable and mobile technologies, supporting maximum number of inertial and biomedical data to support decision algorithms. Although medical diagnostics and decision algorithms have not been the main aim of the research, this preliminary phase was crucial to test capabilities of existing off-the-shelf technologies and functional responsibilities of system’s logic components. Architecture variants contained several schemes for data processing moving the responsibility for signal feature extraction, data classification and pattern recognition from wearable to mobile up to server facilities. Analysis of transmission and processing delays provided architecture variants pros and cons but most of all knowledge about applicability in medical, military and fitness domains. To evaluate and construct architecture, a set of alternative technology stacks and quantitative measures has been defined. The major architecture characteristics (high availability, scalability, reliability) have been defined imposing asynchronous processing of sensor data, efficient data representation, iterative reporting, event-driven processing, restricting pulling operations. Sensor data processing persist the original data on handhelds but is mainly aimed at extracting chosen set of signal features calculated for specific time windows – varying for analysed signals and the sensor data acquisition rates. Long term monitoring of patients requires also development of mechanisms, which probe the patient and in case of detecting anomalies or drastic characteristic changes tune the data acquisition process. This paper describes experiences connected with design of scalable decision support tool and evaluation techniques for architectural concepts implemented within the mobile and server software.
Development of a dynamic tool for aircraft noise reproduction
Authors: Viscardi Massimo , Arena Maurizio
Published: October 2018

The aircraft is surely one of the most considerable invention that changed the transport-engineering field, since flying was already an ancient dream come true just a few years ago. Now it is really easy to reach many far places even if most people have no clue how flying is possible. However, as factories do, these large and faster and faster machines return a consistent amount of pollution every day. During take-off, engines reach the highest RPMs returning the most noise possible, and during landing, mobile surfaces produce a lot of aerodynamic disturbs releasing energy in the air while landing gears constantly produce drag in both circumstances. The need to be able to predict the sound emission of an acoustic source represents an extremely current engineering challenge: in particular, a numerical code that would let the user to listen noise produced by a flyover, since acoustic reports are just numerical statistics and spectrogram plots. In this paper, a numerical formulation is suggested for the prediction of the acoustic emission in the frequency domain. The main task of the project was to develop a program that makes dynamic analysis of the signal taking into account the source movement. Moreover, the simulations predicted the noise levels, thus explicitly accounting for the scattering acoustic effects of incidence and geometrical obstacles as well. Geometrical reflections and absorptions of certain frequencies depending on the material have been comprised in the model.
Sensorische Integration nach Ayres – Ein Thema mit Diskussionspotenzial
Authors: Söchting Elisabeth
Published: October 2018

Umfragen zufolge nutzen über 80 % der Ergotherapeuten im deutschen Sprachraum, die in der Pädiatrie arbeiten, die Sensorische Integration in ihrer Praxis. Andere meinen, dass sie veraltet und in der klienten­zentrierten und betätigungsorientierten Praxis nie angekommen ist. ­Elisabeth Söchting stellt den Bezug von Wissenschaft und Anwendung der SI her.
Timed-up-and-go-Test – Aufstehen – Gehen – Umdrehen – Gehen – Hinsetzen
Authors: Marks Detlef
Published: October 2018

Ein bekannterund zugleich einfacher Test ist der Timed-up-and-go. Mit ihm beurteilen Therapeuten die Alltags­mobilität und das Sturzrisiko von Klienten mit unterschiedlichsten Diagnosen. Wie Sie den Test standar­disiert anwenden und wie die aktuelle Studienlage aussieht, erklärt Detlef Marks.
Fall für Drei – Handprothetik
Authors: Breier Susanne , Säuberlich Stefanie , Adami Christiane , Balcaitis Rolanas
Published: October 2018

Ist es nach einer schweren Verletzung mit teilweisem Verlust der Hand nicht möglich, sie zu rekonstruieren, kann der Patient eine myoelektrische Teilhandprothese erhalten. Sie hilft ihm dabei, die betroffene Extremität in sein Körperschema zu integrieren sowie Überlastungsbeschwerden der anderen Extremität vorzubeugen oder zu reduzieren.
Aktuelle endoskopische Methoden in der Adipositas- und metabolischen Chirurgie
Authors: Stroh Christine , Will Uwe , Meyer Frank , Manger Thomas
Published: October 2018

Auf dem World Health Summit 2011 wurde die epidemieartige Verbreitung von Diabetes mellitus und Adipositas bestätigt. In Deutschland weisen derzeit 62,7% der Bevölkerung einen BMI über 25 kg/m² und 21,9% einen BMI über 30 kg/m² auf. Derzeit erhalten 10,5 Betroffene pro 100 000 Einwohner einen adipositaschirurgischen Eingriff, währenddessen in Frankreich 86,0 Betroffene und in Schweden sogar 114,8 Betroffene pro 100 000 Einwohner operiert werden. Die Entwicklung zahlreicher endoskopischer Techniken ermöglicht die Konditionierung (Bridging) von Hochrisikopatienten vor dem Einsatz operativer Methoden ebenso wie im therapeutischen Management chirurgischer Komplikationen. Dies erfordert jedoch ein selektives und spezialisiertes Vorgehen. Die Endoskopie in der Adipositas entwickelt sich aktuell zunehmend zu einem Spezialgebiet, das Erfordernis der Kenntnis der metabolisch-chirurgischen Methoden mit spezieller endoskopischer Expertise verbindet. Das Ziel der vorliegenden Übersicht ist es, basierend auf ausgewählter Literatur und eigenen Erfahrungen die aktuellen Konzepte der Endoskopie mit ihren Besonderheiten darzustellen.
Plasma Steroids are Not Associated with Resting and Exercise Blood Pressure
Authors: He Zihong , Rankinen Tuomo , Leon Arthur , Skinner James , Tchernof André , Bouchard Claude
Published: October 2018

We investigated the associations between steroid hormones and resting and exercise blood pressure in the sedentary state and in response to an exercise program controlling for sex, body mass, ethnicity, age, oral contraceptives, hormone therapy, smoking and alcohol intake in subjects from the HERITAGE Family Study. In the sedentary state, 267 men (28% Blacks) and 301 women (37% Blacks) were available, and 241 men and 254 women completed the exercise program. Fourteen steroid hormones and sex hormone-binding globulin concentrations were assayed in a fasted state. Statistical significance was set at a Bonferroni adjusted p<0.0001. After controlling for the various covariates, only testosterone came close to a significant correlation with exercise systolic blood pressure at 50 W (r=−0.21, P=0.0006) in men. No other correlations with resting and exercise blood pressure traits were found at baseline. There were significant changes in blood pressure in response to the exercise program, but none of the correlations with baseline plasma steroids reached statistical significance. Plasma steroids do not correlate with resting and exercise blood pressure in sedentary adults and do not associate with blood pressure changes in response to a 20-week endurance exercise program.
Infraspecific Variation of Huperzine A and B in Icelandic Huperzia selago Complex
Authors: Xu Maonian , Heidmarsson Starri , Thorsteinsdottir Margret , Wasowicz Pawel , Sun Hang , Deng Tao , Omarsdottir Sesselja , Olafsdottir Elin
Published: October 2018

The alkaloids huperzine A and huperzine B were originally isolated from the Chinese club moss Huperzia serrata. They are known inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase, and especially huperzine A shows pharmaceutical potential for the treatment of Alzheimerʼs disease. Its supply heavily relies on natural plant sources belonging to the genus Huperzia, which shows considerable interspecific huperzine A variations. Furthermore, taxonomic controversy remains in this genus, particularly in the Huperzia selago group. With focus on Icelandic H. selago taxa, we aimed to explore the relatedness of Huperzia species using multi-locus phylogenetic analysis, and to investigate correlations between huperzine A contents, morphotypes, and genotypes. Phylogenetic analysis was performed with five chloroplastic loci (the intergenic spacer between the photosystem II protein D1 gene and the tRNA-His gene, maturase K, ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase large subunit, tRNA-Leu, and the intergenic spacer region between tRNA-Leu and tRNA-Phe). Huperzine A and huperzine B contents were determined using an HPLC-UV method. The phylogenetic analysis suggests that previously proposed Huperzia appressa and Huperzia arctica should not be considered species, but rather subspecies of H. selago. Three genotypes of Icelandic H. selago were identified and presented in a haplotype networking diagram. A significantly (p < 0.05) higher amount of huperzine A was found in H. selago genotype 3 (264 – 679 µg/g) than genotype 1 (20 – 180 µg/g), where the former shows a typical green and reflexed “selago” morphotype. The huperzine A content in genotype 3 is comparable to Chinese H. serrata and a good alternative huperzine A source. Genotype 2 contains multiple morphotypes with a broad huperzine A content (113 – 599 µg/g). The content of huperzine B in Icelandic taxa (6 – 13 µg/g) is much lower than that in Chinese H. serrata (79 – 207 µg/g).
Bilateral Globus Pallidus Internus Deep Brain Stimulation in a Case of Progressive Dystonia in Mohr-Tranebjaerg Syndrome with Bilateral Cochlear Implants
Authors: Rijntjes Michel , Sajonz Bastian , Piroth Tobias , Prokop Thomas , Jost Wolfgang , Trippel Michael , Urbach Horst , Reinacher Peter , Coenen Volker
Published: October 2018

Introduction A 28-year-old man presented with a history of sensorineural deafness since early childhood treated with bilateral cochlear implants (CIs). He showed signs of debilitating dystonia that had been present since puberty. Dystonic symptoms, especially a protrusion of the tongue and bilateral hand tremor, had not responded to botulinum toxin therapy. We diagnosed Mohr-Tranebjaerg syndrome (MTS).

Methods and Material Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the bilateral globus pallidus internus was performed predominantly with stereotaxic computed tomography angiography guidance under general anesthesia. Electrophysiology was used to identify the target regions and to guide DBS electrode placement.

Results In the immediate postoperative course and stimulation, the patient showed marked improvement of facial, extremity, and cervical dystonia. More than 2 years after implantation, his dystonic symptoms had dramatically improved by 82%.

Discussion MTS is a rare genetic disorder leading to sensorineural deafness, dystonia, and other symptoms. The use of DBS for the dystonia in MTS was previously described but not in the presence of bilateral CIs.

Conclusion DBS in MTS may be a viable option to treat debilitating dystonic symptoms. We describe successful DBS surgery, despite the presence of bilateral CIs, and stimulation therapy over 2 years.
“Vertical Root Fracture”- A Dilemma Revisited
Authors: Kukreja Navneet , Agarwal Disha , Bansal Abhishek , Chaudhary Devendra , Kukreja Urvashi , Mittal Sangam
Published: October 2018

Diagnosis of vertical root fracture in an endodontically treated tooth presents with various difficulties. The diagnosis of such a fracture is a challenge to the clinician since it is based on subjective parameters. There are, however, many specific clinical and radiographical signs which, when present, can alert clinicians to the existence of such a fracture. Various methods to clinically diagnose vertical root fracture include conventional methods such as illumination, periodontal probing, staining, direct visual examination and newer techniques such as cone beam computed tomography, optical coherence tomography. The management of a vertical root fracture has always been considered a difficult task for the endodontist. This article provides an insight into the various methods of diagnosis and treatment strategies for the vertical root fracture.
Diode Lasers in Dentistry-The One Tool to Cure Them All - Case Series
Authors: Kaur Harjit , Jain Sanjeev , Mahajan Gaurav , Saxena Divya , Kochhar Sumit , Pandav Gaurav
Published: October 2018

The breakthrough for dental laser systems came in the mid 1990’s. Among the various laser types with corresponding wavelengths, diode laser systems quickly began establishing themselves as compact, competitively priced and versatile additions to the dentist’s repertoire, predominantly for performing soft tissue applications. The advantages of laser use include a relatively bloodless operating field, sterilization of the wound site, minimal swelling and scarring, reduction of surgical time and less postoperative pain to the patient. It should appeal to dental professionals seeking to optimize the procedures they currently perform and expand the number of services they offer.
CAD-CAM Implant Abutments-A Solution for Challenging Clinical Cases
Authors: Kuckreja Harinder , Kuckreja K
Published: October 2018

Due to the success of osseointegration and improved surgical protocols, implant placement has become a routine practice in most of the dental clinics. The latest developments focus on the implant superstructure and prosthodontic phase. In digitally driven world, use of virtually designed and milled implant abutments is growing exponentially. More and more dentists are going in for customised milled abutments for predicable soft tissue contours and esthetics. The present article discusses about the restorative options for a few clinical situations where custom milled abutments seemed a best option.