bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agreement between chest ultrasonography and chest X-ray in patients who have undergone thoracic surgery: preliminary results
Authors: Smargiassi Andrea , Inchingolo Riccardo , Chiappetta Marco , Petracca Ciavarella Leonardo , Lopatriello Stefania , Corbo Giuseppe Maria , Margaritora Stefano , Richeldi Luca
Published: January 2020

Background: Chest Ultrasonography (chest US) has shown good sensibility in detecting pneumothorax, pleural effusions and peripheral consolidations and it can be performed bedside. Objectives: The aim of the study was to analyze agreement between chest US and chest X-ray in patients who have undergone thoracic surgery and discuss cases of discordance. Methods: Patients undergoing thoracic surgery were retrospectively selected. Patients underwent routinely Chest X-ray (CXR) during the first 48 h after surgery. Chest US have been routinely performed in all selected patients in the same date of CXR. Chest US operators were blind to both reports and images of CXR. Ultrasonographic findings regarding pneumothorax (PNX), subcutaneous emphysema (SCE), lung consolidations (LC), pleural effusions (PE) and hemi-diaphragm position were collected and compared to corresponding CXR findings. Inter-rater agreement between two techniques was determined by Cohen’s kappa-coefficient. Results: Twenty-four patients were selected. Inter-rater agreement showed a moderate magnitude for PNX (Cohen’s Kappa 0.5), a slight/fair magnitude for SCE (Cohen’s Kappa 0.21), a fair magnitude for PE (Cohen’s Kappa 0.39), no agreement for LCs (Cohen’s Kappa 0.06), high levels of agreement for position of hemi-diaphragm (Cohen’s Kappa 0.7). Conclusion: Analysis of agreement between chest X-ray and chest US showed that ultrasonography is able to detect important findings for surgeons. Limitations and advantages have been found for both chest X-ray and chest US. Knowing the limits of each one is important to really justify and optimize the use of ionizing radiations.
Sistemiese omgewingsinvloede vereis 'n langtermynbenadering tot ondernemingsbeplanning
Authors: Boshoff C. H.
Published: January 2020

Corporate planning with due consideration to the interaction between the firm and its environment is of great importance. Several developments make it essential that planning be more future-oriented, and take longer periods into consideration. Due to the changeability of, and interaction among factors, future-oriented corporate planning also requires a multidimensional knowledge of and approach to the variety of elements concerned. Consequently the nature of the planning process becomes more systemic or integrate. Factors which have contributed to the change include the influence of accelerated product and technology dynamics, the increase in capital intensive production processes, the rise of the professional manager, the advent of the modern multi-objective corporation, and consciousness of the social responsibility of the firm. It differs in several ways from mechanistic and fragmented short-term planning, and requires thorough knowledge and consideration of the likely future development of the interacting dimensions and factors. In this way it has led to the development of Futurology.Ondernemingsbeplanning met inagneming van die wisselwerking tussen die onderneming en sy omgewing is van groot belang. Verskeie ontwikkelings maak dit noodsaaklik dat beplanning meer toekomsgerig is en langer termyne in aanmerking neem. Weens die veranderlikheld van, en wisselwerking tussen faktore, vereis toekomsgerigte ondernemingsbeplanning ook 'n multi-dimensionele kennis van en benadering tot die verskeidenheid van betrokke elemente. Gevolglik word die beplanningsproses meer sistemles of integrerend van aard. Faktore wat tot die verandering bygedra het sluit in die invloed van versnelde produk- en tegniekdinamika, die toename in kapitaalintensiewe produksieprosesse, die opkoms van die professionele bestuurder, die opkoms van die moderne meerdoelige onderneming, en die bewustheid van die sosiale verantwoordelikheld van die onderneming. Dit verskil op verskeie maniere van meganiese en gefragmenteerde korttermynbeplanning, en vereis deeglike kennis en oorweging van die toekomsverloop van die wisselwerkende dimensies en faktore. So het dit gelei tot die opkoms van die Futurologie.
What I look for in a manager
Authors: Etheredge Dennis
Published: January 2020

No abstract available.
Free enterprise in South Africa and academic responsibility
Authors: De Wet Geert L.
Published: January 2020

Although few people may realize it, the free enterprise system occupies a front line position in the onslaught against South Africa. It is therefore important that we are aware of the advantages as well as the disadvantages of the system in order that we do not cherish expectations which cannot materialize. The free enterprise system achieves the best results, from the point of view of efficiency, but it does have shortcomings as well. The advantages of free enterprise for South Africa must be sought far beyond the traditional arguments and relate, in fact, to a community's view of life itself. The discipline of free enterprise nurtures tolerance towards one's competition and it supplies the people with personal property which they will be prepared to defend. An important characteristic of the system of free enterprise is the fact that it teaches people to outwit their competitors intellectually instead of physical removal. This helps to create a community in which one may live an ordered life in safety.Alhoewel min mense dit miskien so insien, beklee die stelsel van vrye onderneming 'n sentrale posisie in die aanslag teen Suid-Afrika. Dit is daarom belangrik dat ons bewus is van die voor- sowel as die nadele van die stelsel, sodat ons nie verwagtinge koester wat nie vervul kan word nie. Alhoewel dit wil voorkom of vrye onderneming uit 'n doeltreffendheidsoogpunt die beste resultate lewer, is dit ook aan sekere tekortkominge onderhewig. Die voordele van vrye onderneming in Suid-Afrika, moet anderkant die tradisionele argumente gesoek word, aangesien dit 'n gemeenskap se hele lewenstyl raak. Die dissipline van vrye onderneming skep verdraagsaamheid teenoor jou teenstanders en dit verskaf aan mense persoonlike eiendom wat hulle bereid sal wees om te verdedig. 'n Besondere voordeel is die feit dat dit mense leer om hul teenstanders met intellek te uitoorle, eerder as om hulle fisies uit die weg te ruim. Dit dra by tot die skepping van 'n ordelike en veilige gemeenskap.
Integrating strategic and manpower planning
Authors: Robinson Grant
Published: January 2020

The close interdependence between corporate strategy and manpower planning in the formulation and implementation of strategic plans for a healthy, viable organization is discussed. Strategy is more than products, markets and finance - the crucial role of people is gaining increasing recognition. The key aspects of strategy formulation are discussed: corporate objectives and culture, analysis of internal strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats in the environment, identification of potential future strategies and matching these with the company, leading to the choice of a strategy. Manpower planning elements are vital in all these steps: identification of the organization's culture and objectives, preparation of a human capability inventory, and the provision of the human resources needed to implement the strategy chosen, as well as the key areas of organizational design, reward systems, management development and leadership.Die noue onderlinge afhanklikheid tussen ondernemingstrategie en mannekragbeplanning in die formulering en implementering van strategiese planne vir 'n gesonde, lewensvatbare organisasie word bespreek. Strategie is meer as produkte, markte en finansiering - die bepalende rol van mense geniet toenemende erkenning. Die sleutelaspekte van strategieformulering word bespreek: ondernemingsdoelwitte en -kultuur, ontleding van interne sterktes en swakhede, geleenthede en bedreigings in die omgewing, identifisering van potensiele toekomstige strategiee en die verenigbaarheid daarvan met die maatskappy, wat lei tot die keuse van 'n strategie. Elemente van mannekragbeplanning is krities in al hierdie stappe: identifisering van die organisasie se kultuur en doelwitte, voorbereiding van 'n inventaris van menslike bekwaamhede, en die verskaffing van die menslike hulpbronne wat nodig is om die gekose strategie te implementeer, asook die sleutelareas van organisasie-ontwerp, beloningstelsels, bestuursontwikkeling en leierskap.
Marketing case study: How to beat the litterbug - Part II
Authors: Clarke Hugh G.
Published: January 2020

No abstract available.
Quality assurance: Its history and meaning
Authors: Hacquebord H. , Van Den Berg P. H.
Published: January 2020

The objectives of this article are to relate Quality Assurance to the profitability of the organization, to investigate the history and identify the scope of Quality Assurance and to develop a model that illustrates why the management of product quality has certain key result areas. The relationship between product fitness for use and net profit is identified and this indicates that the management of product quality is an important business objective in order to optimize net profit. The historical development of quality assurance leads up to the modern concept which defines the parameters for product fitness for use and identifies those functional areas of the organization that influence product quality. The importance of having to establish key result areas for the management of quality becomes obvious from this exposition. The conclusions are that product quality is tied to net profit and that effective management of quality will in fact optimize net profit. Quality Assurance extends beyond inter-departmental boundaries and involves everyone in the organization. As such the identification of key result areas for the management of quality becomes vitally important.Die doelstellings van hierdie artikel is om Kwaliteitsversekering in verband te bring met die winsgewendheid van die organisasie; die geskiedenis van Kwaliteitsversekering na te gaan, die omvang daarvan te identifiseer en 'n model te ontwikkel wat illustreer waarom daar in die bestuur van produkkwaliteit sekere sleutelprestasieareas bestaan. Die verhouding tussen die produk se gebruiksgeskiktheid en netto wins word identifiseer en toon dat die bestuur van produktiwiteit 'n belangrike bedryfsdoelwit is ten einde netto wins te optimaliseer. Die historiese ontwikkeling van kwaliteitsversekering lei tot die moderne konsep wat die parameters vir produkgebruiksgeskiktheid definieer en funksionele areas van die organisasie wat produkkwaliteit beinvloed, identifiseer. Die belang van vasstelling van sleutelprestasieareas vir die bestuur van kwaliteit word duidelik en die gevolgtrekkings is dat produkkwaliteit gekoppel is aan netto wins en dat effektiewe kwaliteitsbestuur dit sal optimaliseer. Kwaliteitsversekering oorskry interdepartementele grense en betrek almal in die organisasie, dus word die identifikasie van sleutelprestasieareas van die uiterste belang vir kwaliteitsbestuur.
Organisatoriese doeltreffendheid in Suid-Afrika en Japan
Authors: Spoelstra H. J.J.
Published: January 2020

Organizational effectiveness in South Africa and Japan. Japan's extraordinary economic success of the past century makes it an excellent source of comparison with South Africa where economic success is still hampered by problems such as low productivity, unemployment and organizational ineffectiveness. In Japan the principles of utilization of manpower are based on the high priority given to labour as a factor of production. The life-time employment system, life-time training and seniority as motive for promotion and remuneration are examples of labour deployment. Decisions are initiated at the lowest levels and only arrived at by consensus while the only role of management is to maintain harmony during the process. Individual work input is high and labour unions play an important and supportive role in the effective functioning of organizations.Die besondere sukses van die Japanse ekonomie gedurende die afgelope eeu maak die land 'n uitstekende bron van vergelyking met Suid-Afrika waar ekonomiese sukses nog relatief laag is as gevolg van probleme soos lae produktiwiteit, werkloosheid en organisatoriese doeltreffendheid. In Japan word arbeidsbenuttingsbeginsels gefundeer in die besondere prioriteit wat aan arbeid as produksiefaktor toegeskryf word. Lewenslange indiensneming, lewenslange opleiding en die senioriteitsbeginsel by bevordering en vergoeding is voorbeelde van die benutting van arbeid. Besluite word op die laagste vlakke geinisieer en slegs deur konsensus bereik. Bestuur sien slegs toe dat harmonie in die proses gehandhaaf word. lndividuele werkinset is hoog en vakbonde speel 'n belangrike en ondersteunende rol in die doeltreffende funksionering van organisasies.
Environmental scanning for business planning a total (holistic) approach is necessary
Authors: Boshoff C. H.
Published: January 2020

Traditionally environmental scanning for purposes of business planning was done in a compartementalized way in the sense that each influence was studied under the assumption that all other influences would remain constant. In a dynamic society where environmental change takes place at an accelerated pace, a total (integrated or holistic) approach to environmental scanning as the basis for business planning becomes necessary. This need will be demonstrated by way of examples in this paper in a twofold way. First, that the accelerated pace of change in the environmental influences is such that their implications for business planning can change even in the short run. Secondly, that the resultant cross impact of these changes invalidates the continuation of the trend-line approach as far as the result of the environmental influences on business planning is concerned.Tradisioneel was omgewingsverkenning as basis vir besigheidsbeplanning gekompartementaliseerd gedoen deurdat elke invloed bestudeer is onder die aanname dat alle ander invloede as konstantes beskou kan word. In 'n dinamiese gemeenskap waarin die pas van omgewingsveranderinge almeer versnel, is 'n totale (geintegreerde of holistiese) benadering in die verband essensieel as basis vir besigheidsbeplanning. Hierdie behoefte word op tweerlei wyse met behulp van voorbeelde in hierdie artikel geillustreer. Eerstens, dat die versnelde tempo van verandering in omgewingsinvloede sodanig is dat dit selfs oor die kort termyn veranderde implikasies vir besigheidsbeplanning kan he. Tweedens, dat die gevolglike kruisimpak tussen omgewingsinvloede in die proses van verandering se invloed op beplanning selde as 'n voortsetting van die historiese neigingslyn geneem kan word.
Free enterprise: The reluctant supporters - S.A. Institutions
Authors: Collins P. M.
Published: January 2020

An address to the Institute of Directors Seminar at Cape Town on 12 March 1981.
The importance of organizational climate for management development
Authors: Nurick I. H.
Published: January 2020

The article records the opinions of nine South African managers in the personnel and training fields regarding the importance of organizational climate for management development, and relates these to some relevant theory. The author examines what management development is, why corporations invest in management development programmes, and who is responsible for this task. He then discusses the relationship between management development and organizational climate, and shows how a poorly implemented management development programme can adversely affect organizational climate. Factors considered include: top-management commitment, management style, attitude towards delegation, insecurity and resistance to change, counselling and coaching, profit orientation, organizational pressures, and incentive for development. The practical experience and opinions of the managers interviewed enhance and illustrate the points discussed.Die artikel gee 'n opsomming van die menings van nege Suid-Afrikaanse bestuurders in die personeel- en opleidingsgebiede aangaande die belangrikheid van organisasieklimaat in bestuursontwikkeling en bring dit in verband met toepaslike teorie. Die outeur ontleed bestuursontwikkeling, waarom maatskappye daarin bele, en wie vir hierdie taak verantwoordelik is. Hy bespreek daarna die verhouding tussen bestuursontwikkeling en organisasieklimaat en dui aan hoe 'n swak geimplementeerde bestuursontwikkelingsprogram organisasieklimaat nadelig kan beinvloed. Faktore wat oorweeg word, sluit in: ondersteuning van topbestuur vir die projek, bestuurstyl, houding teenoor delegasie, insekuriteit en weerstand teen verandering, voorligting en onderrig, winsorientasie, organisasiedruk en aansporing tot ontwikkeling. Die praktiese ervaring en menings van bestuurders met wie onderhoude gevoer is, belig en illustreer die punte wat bespreek word.
Managing time for managers
Authors: Ace Merle E.
Published: January 2020

Although managers are often concerned about their use of time to get more done, there are even more compelling reasons for the effective use of time. Time is important from the perspectives of health, of employee work performance, and of new products. Managers waste time in many ways, including the confusion of activity with results, lack of planning, doing it yourself, misusing an open-door policy, and use of managerial shortcuts. If people want to make better use of their time, they must first admit that most of their time management problems are of their own making. These 'internal' time wasters include failure to set goals and priorities, the tendency to procrastinate, and lack of proper delegation. External time wasters, caused by outside forces, include meetings, the telephone, and interruptions. It is difficult for people to accurately assess their use of time, however, and to pinpoint their time management problems. A time log is suggested as an objective means of doing so. Excessive use of a managerial style can lead to time traps. Successful time management is successful self-management, and that means the exercise of self-discipline.Bestuurders is dikwels oor hul tydbesteding besorg in 'n poging om meer gedaan te kry, maar daar is selfs belangriker redes wat die doeltreffende benutting van tyd noodsaak. Tyd is belangrik gesien vanuit die oogpunte van gesondheid, werkverrigting deur werknemers en nuwe produkte. Bestuurders mors op baie maniere tyd, byvoorbeeld weens verwarring tussen aktiwiteit en resultate, gebrek aan beplanning, alles-self-doen, misbruik van 'n oop-deur beleid en gebruik van bestuurskortpaaie. As bestuurders hulle tyd beter wil benut, moet hulle eers erken dat hulle die meeste van hulle tydbestuursprobleme self veroorsaak. Hierdie 'interne' tydmorsers sluit o.a. 'n gebrek aan bepaling van doelwitte en prioriteite, die neiging om uit te stel en gebrek aan behoorlike delegering in. Eksterne tydmorsers wat deur buitefaktore veroorsaak word, sluit vergaderings, die telefoon en onderbrekings in. Mense vind dit egter moeilik om hulle gebruik van tyd akkuraat te beoordeel en om hul eie tydbestuursprobleme vas te stel. 'n Tydbestedingskaart word voorgestel as 'n objektiewe manier om dit te doen. Oormatige gebruik van 'n bestuurstyl kan lei tot tydslaggate. Suksesvolle tydsbestuur is suksesvolle selfbestuur, en dit beteken die beoefening van selfdissipline.
Medical officers’ attitudes towards physiotherapy
Authors: Morford S. , Goodley D.
Published: January 2020

A simple questionnaire was distributed amongst the Medical Officers of the Cape’s Day Hospitals Organisation to ascertain their knowledge of and attitudes towards physiotherapy. The results are analysed and discussed.
Intelligent Control Method for Flanking Flight of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Wang Rui , Yu Xin-Li , Wu Nian-Chu
Published: January 2020

The angle control during the flight of UAV is the most important factor which affects its stability and safety. Since the traditional PID control method is difficult to automatically adjust the control parameters, a particle swarm optimization algorithm based on traditional PID control (PSO-PID), is proposed to construct a mathematical model of the flanking flight of the UAV. Based on the full analysis of the PID control principle, the UAVâ€™s flanking flight controller based on PID control is constructed. The particle swarm optimization algorithm is introduced to optimize the PID parameters. The simulation model is built in MATLAB to investigate the position and altitude angle change of the UAVâ€™s flank and compare it with the traditional PID control method. The experimental results show that the PSO-PID control strategy has a good control effect, which enables UAVâ€™s flanking flight to reach the specified position more quickly and accurately than traditional PID controller alone.
Aerodynamic Behaviour of Dimpled NACA0012 Airfoil for Various Angles of Attack: Technical Note
Authors: Booma Devi P. , Gokulnath R. , Raja Joseph D. , Paulson V.
Published: January 2020

The use of dimpled surface for enhancement of lift is getting popular at recent days. In our previous research [16] we have studied the aerodynamic behaviour of dimpled surface numerically. In this work enhancement of lift without increase in drag on dimpled NACA0012 airfoil were studied experimentally. Dimples of various geometrical structures like square, rectangle and triangular were taken for consideration and underwent computational analysis by developing 3D model using CATIA V5. Flow analysis was done using ANSYS CFX. Based on the computational results, square dimple was chosen as the best and considered for the experimental work. It was found that the deviation between the computational simulation and experimental results were within 0.5%.
Effect of Cladding Process Parameters for Mild Steel Surface Treatment
Authors: Joseph G.B. , Chaitanya P.S. , Kumar R.V. , Mageshwaran G , Jeevahan J.
Published: January 2020

Weld cladding process is to improve the wear resistance properties by depositing a layer of wear resistance material over carbon steel plate. It is a process of combining two metals of dissimilar properties with extra fill in between the metals. Selection of process parameters for achieving the required clad bead geometry and its shape relationships is the main problem faced in the mild steel cladding. The cladded bead components quality always depends on clad bead geometry and shape of welds. In order to obtain better quality, wear resistance property of the metal should be good and also to reduce the manufacturing costs the bead parameters must be optimized. The objectives mentioned above can be achieved by developing mathematical equations to predict bead geometry. The experiments were conducted by depositing stellite6 wire on mild steel plates.
Investigation of Post-Stall Aerodynamic Characteristics of Ventilated NASA LS (1)-0417 Airfoil
Authors: Vimal M.R. , Puratchikanal R. , Dheenadhayalan J. , Karthikeyan E. , Ezhilan E. , Venkatesh S.
Published: January 2020

NASA LS (1)-0417 is an airfoil profile widely used in vehicle design especially in aircrafts for subsonic and transonic speed regimes. Performance of the airfoil is mainly determined by stall aerodynamic characteristics during flight. Further increase in stalling angle of the airfoil, the engineers adopts a single or multiple flaps in the trailing edge region of the main airfoil. The present study deals with a new attempt to achieve the post-stall or increased lift characteristics of NASA LS (1)-0417 airfoil beyond the stalling angle. The airfoilâ€™s surface parts are subjected to allow the air to flow freely over and into the airfoil with increase in lift. The modified airfoil is designed from the base airfoil using the commercial design software and imported to the computational domain with boundaries around the model and meshed properly for solving the problem using the analysis software. The aerodynamic characteristics are compared with the baseline NASA LS (1)-0417 airfoil.
Effect of Process Parameters for Wirecut Electric Discharge Machining of Cladded SS304
Authors: Britto Joseph G. , Praveenkumar A. , Durairaj R.B. , Mageshwaran G. , Sriram V. , Jeevahan Jeya
Published: January 2020

The usage of cladded materials is grown in automobile industry. However, cutting of cladded material is considered as a challenging task because of its heterogeneous nature, therefore it is often subjected to thermal cutting like plasma arc cutting or gas cutting process. Wirecut Electric Discharge Machining (WEDM) is a competent alternate for good surface finish but this process offers relatively low level of cutting. The objective of this work is to identify the optimal values of WEDM process parameters such as pulse on time, table feed and working time and then study their effects on the surface roughness and Kerf width.
Mechanical Properties and Parameters Optimization of Large-scale Bearing by Finite Element Simulation
Authors: Zhang Zhihua
Published: January 2020

The structure of large-scale roller bearing has strong load carrying capacity, so it is often used in the system of low-speed operation. In wind power technology, large-scale bearings are used and its reliability is very important. In this paper, the characteristics of two kinds of bearing structures are analysed and then the finite element model is used to simulate the large-scale roller bearing with the load distribution and size of contact angle under actual working conditions. By constructing several large-scale roller bearing support models, the influence of its structure and hardness on its mechanical properties can be established. Finally, the parameters optimization is carried out for channel spacing, to find the most suitable value between the two channels to improve the service life of roller bearings.
Vibration and Noise Control Technology for High-speed Railway
Authors: Yue Si
Published: January 2020

The operation of high-speed railway will cause environmental noise and vibration problems, which will directly affect the sustainable development of railway station's comprehensive development. In solving this problem, the traditional method generally considers the three aspects of sound source, vibration source and propagation path, but often fail to achieve satisfactory control effect. This paper presents a high-speed railway vibration and noise control technology based on linear feedback matching filter. Firstly, the propagation path model of noise in high-speed railway station is constructed and the noise signal is separated. At the same time, linear feedback matching filter technique is used to make in-phase addition to the propagating sound. The linear feedback filter is designed by combining the binary wavelet technique to suppress the noise and vibration. The results show that the proposed technique overcomes the weakness of conventional control model and the noise vibration control is smoother than that of the traditional method.
Experimental Analysis of Heavy Vehicle Hydraulic Retarder during Downhill Driving
Authors: Yong Zhang
Published: January 2020

The traditional control method of hydraulic retarder has poor control effect, and a precise control method of hydraulic retarder for heavy vehicle running downhill is proposed in this paper. The dynamics of heavy vehicle is analysed. According to the analysis, the auxiliary braking performance of hydraulic retarder is studied. The hydraulic retarder assembly with closed structure is designed. On this basis, the preliminary control and secondary control of the hydraulic retarder are carried out to realize its precise control. Experimental results show that the dynamic deviation of the retarder speed controlled by the proposed method is 45% lower than that of the traditional method. The proposed method has low energy consumption and strong feasibility.
Microscopic Trimming and Dynamic Contact Performance of Transmission Gears in Electric Bus
Authors: Zhang Qingyong , Wang Yaru , Lu Zhenfei , Lin Weiping
Published: January 2020

Different type of transmission structure is used for pure electric vehicles. Enhancing the transmission performance is the key to improve their dynamic property and economic efficiency. In this paper, a two-speed planetary transmission for a self-designed 10-12m bus is studied. A simulation model of the transmission is created according to the gear meshing principle and the load spectra are established by simulating the probable loads on the transmission during actual operation. The gear drive process of the transmission, as well as the gear safety factors, damage rates and meshing dislocation are analysed. Trimming curves are derived based on the principles of axial and tooth profile modification. The contact spots and transmission errors of gear meshing obtained before and after trimming are analysed comparatively using MASTA gear microscopic trimming module, thereby determining the reasonable method and quantity of trimming for the studied transmission gear.
Experimental Analysis on Mechanical Behaviour of E-Glass Fiber Reinforced with Polyaromatic Hydrocarbon Composites
Authors: Rajaguru K. , Vijayan V. , Saravanan S. , Godwin Antony A.
Published: January 2020

In this investigation, soot particles were doped with glass fibre and its characteristic and mechanical properties were examined. The glass fibres with soot particles composite were prepared via compression mould method and the effect of glass fibre on the mechanical properties of the composites was studied. The various wt. % of soot particles as 0%, 0.1%, 0.5% and 1.0% were added into epoxy. Tensile, flexural and impact tests were conducted. The addition of more than 0.1%wt. of soot particles with glass fibre has resulted in high mechanical properties compared to other weight ratios.
Aeroelastic Gust Response of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle: Technical Note
Authors: Daniel Antony A. , Gopalsamy M. , Pavithra K. , Dinesh Babu R.
Published: January 2020

The aim of this work is to study various gusts and to develop a numerical solution of the response by Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV). A MATLAB code and SIMULINK block diagram were developed for the numerical solution of the response of linear aero-elastic equations. The response of UAV is plotted and results are compared for various gust velocities. Pitch rate depends on the velocity of the UAV, length of the gust and the maximum gust velocity. It was found that with increase in gust velocity and gust length, the pitch and pitch rate of UAV are increased proportionally.
Effect of Low Velocity Impact at Pre-Stressed Condition on Curved Glass-Carbon Composites Laminate
Authors: Asokan R. , Balaji H. , Rubanrajasekar B. , Dinesh M.
Published: January 2020

A curved composite panel is used in aircraft parts such as wings and engine cowling in order to improve their impact resistance to different types of impact loads. The effect of size reduction in the tensile pre-stress behaviour of low velocity impact on different materials such as glass and glass/carbon hybrid is examined in this paper. The effects of low velocity impact behaviour of two different pre-stressed curved laminates are taken for consideration and examined under impact loading. The objective of this research is to improve the efficiency of curved laminate by changing the hybrid composition such as glass/carbon with varied stacking sequence. The present studies using hybrid composition have shown that the load carrying capacity is higher in convex laminates while the damaged surface area in convex laminates is very less.
Comparative Study on Parabolic Trough Collector by using Different Heat Transfer Fluids
Authors: Mounica Krishna , Hanumantha Rao Y.V. , Atgur Vinay , Manavendra G. , Srinivasa Rao B.
Published: January 2020

In this paper the use of Syltherm-800 and Therminol-55 thermal oils in parabolic trough collector (PTC) is investigated with inlet temperatures of 375.35 K, 424.15 K, 470.65 K and 523.85 K and for mass flow rates of 4, 4.5 and 5 kg/sec. Analysis has been carried out using a thermal model and validated using the simulation results. Therminol-55 gives better heat transfer coefficient compared to Syltherm-800. Since Therminol-55 has higher specific heat and viscosity when compared to Syltherm-800, the use of Syltherm-800 as a heat transfer fluid in PTC is preferred. Better results are observed for temperature of 375.35 K and mass flow rate of 4 kg/sec.
Experimental Investigation of Castor Oil and Methanol Powered DI-CI Engine with Thermal Barrier Coated Piston
Authors: Raja S. , Venkatesh S. , Gokulnath R. , Lilly Mercy J.
Published: January 2020

Biodiesel has gained the attention of many researchers all over the world. Although several biodiesel are utilized as fuel for diesel engine, the thermal efficiency of the engine while running with biodiesel does not meet the standards of neat diesel. In this research work an attempt was made to run the direct injection compression Ignition (DI-CI) diesel engine with thermal barrier coated piston with castor oil and methanol fuel blends. Thermal barrier coating (TBC) increases the heat absorption rate thereby reduces the amount of heat rejected to the exhaust system. TBC also overcomes the problem of using biodiesel in CI engines that it compensates the efficiency loss due to lower calorific value of biodiesel. On the other hand, methanol blended with castor oil has the ability to reduce the oxides of nitrogen and smoke emissions simultaneously. The experimental results show that an increase of 3.07% in brake thermal efficiency is achieved when the thermal barrier coated CI engine is fuelled with methanol and castor oil blend when compared with neat diesel. Also, the NOx emissions and smoke intensity are reduced by 44% and 28.5% respectively with the same blend.
Platelet reactivity expressed as a novel platelet reactivity score is associated with higher inflammatory state after coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Wilczyński Mirosław , Krejca Michał , Stepinski Piotr , Rozalski Marcin , Golanski Jacek
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Despite therapy, patients operated using a cardiopulmonary bypass demonstrate increased platelet aggregation, which rebounds to above preoperative levels. The aim of the study was to test the interaction between platelet reactivity/activation and selected inflammatory markers in the post-operative period.

Material and methods

In total, 103 patients with non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) who were not eligible for percutaneous coro­nary interventions (PCI), and required urgent revascularization, were included. Platelet reactivity was measured using the PFA-100 platelet analyser, multiple electrode aggregometry, and was expressed as a novel platelet reactivity score (PRS). Patients were divided using their PRS scores into high platelet relativity or low platelet reactivity subgroups (HPR or LPR). Platelet basal activation was measured using immunoassays for soluble P-selectin and soluble CD40L. We measured high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), and used immunoassays for tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) as inflammation markers.

Results

Significant differences between HPR and LPR groups were found for CRP (mg/l): 81.5 vs. 44.6, p < 0.02; and TNF-α (pg/l): 3.51 vs. 2.37, p < 0.02. A significant association was found between CRP, TNF-α, IL-6 and platelet reactivity (platelet reactivity score). Cohen’s  showed: CRP = 0.49, p < 0.0001, TNF-α = 0.37, p < 0.002. Perioperative myocardial infarction and rhythm disturbances occurred more frequently in the high platelet reactivity group: 7 (16.3%) vs. 2 (3.3%), p < 0.04, and 9 (20.9%) vs. 4 (6.7%), p < 0.04, respectively.

Conclusions

Inflammatory parameters CRP and TNF-α are strongly associated with platelet reactivity (expressed as PRS) in cardiopulmonary bypass graft patients. Platelet hyperreactivity in the early post-operative period combined with a systemic inflammatory state correlates with a higher risk of post-operative rhythm disturbances and myocardial infarction.
Histopathological changes in myocardial tissue due to coronary venous hypertension
Authors: Akşit Ercan , Büyük Başak , Oğuz Sonay
Published: January 2020

Introduction

In chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), an increase in venous pressure causes the passage of intravascular blood cells and molecules into the surrounding tissues and induces histopathological changes in the lower extremities, leading to increased pigmentation in the legs, ulceration, and tissue loss to various degrees. This study aimed to investigate whether an increase in venous pressure in the coronary veins can lead to the aforementioned histopathological changes.

Material and methods

Twenty-four New Zealand rabbits were divided into the following three groups: experimental model of coronary venous hypertension (CVH) (n = 8), sham group (n = 8), and control group (n = 8). After 21 days postoperatively, tissue samples from each group were compared for perivascular inflammation, erythrocyte extravasation, macrophage infiltration, and hemosiderin deposits by histopathological scoring under a light microscope. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) activation was evaluated using immunohistochemical staining.

Results

In the CVH group, hemosiderin accumulation was significantly higher than in the sham and control groups (1.0 (1.0–3.0), 0.0 (0.0–1.0), 0.0 (0.0–0.0); p < 0.001). Immunohistochemically, in the CVH group, MMP-2 levels were significantly higher than in the sham and control groups (2.0 (1.0–3.0), 0.0 (0.0–1.0), 0.0 (0.0–0.0); p < 0.001).

Conclusions

This experimental study showed for the first time the histopathological and immunohistochemical changes in myocardial tissue, similar to those observed in CVI, as a result of increased coronary venous pressure due to coronary vein ligation. Further studies are needed to understand the clinical implications of these results.
Left atrial volume index predicts response to cardiac resynchronisation therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bytyçi Ibadete , Bajraktari Gani , Henein Michael
Published: January 2020

Introduction

In responders, cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) results in improved left ventricular (LV) function and reduced atrial arrhythmia. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the potential relationship between the left atrium (LA) volume and CRT response.

Material and methods

We systematically searched all electronic databases up to August 2018 in order to select clinical trials and observational studies that assessed the predictive value of LA volume index (LAVI) of CRT response. Left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV) reduction ≥ 15 ml and/or LV ejection fraction (EF) increase ≥ 10% were the documented criteria for positive CRT response.

Results

A total of 2191 patients recruited in 10 studies with mean follow-up duration of 10.5 months were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled analysis showed that CRT responders had lower baseline LAVI compared to non-responders, with a weighted mean difference (WMD) of –5.89% (95% CI: –9.47 to –3.22, p < 0.001). At follow-up, LAVI fell in the CRT responders (WMD –4.36%, 95% CI: –3.54 to –5.17, p < 0.001) compared to non-responders (WMD 1.45 %, 95% CI: –0.75 to 3.65, p = 0.20). The mean change of LAVI in the CRT responders was related to the fall in LVESV,  = –1.02 (–1.46 to –0.58), p < 0.001 and the increase in LVEF,  = 2.02 (1.86 to 4.58), p = 0.001. A baseline LAVI < 34 ml/m2 predicted CRT response with summary sensitivity 0.80% (0.53–0.95), specificity 0.74% (0.53–0.89), and odds ratio > 11.

Conclusions

Baseline LAVI predicts CRT response, and its reduction reflects devise-related LA remodelling. These results emphasis the role of LAVI assessment as an integral part of cardiac function response to CRT.
Locus of control in situations of successes and failures and personality traits in young athletes practicing team sports
Authors: Filipiak Sara , Łubianka Beata
Published: January 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to analyze locus of control in situations of successes and failures and personality traits in young people attending sport and non-sport classes. Based on a review of studies, it was presumed that young people who practice team sports have a higher internal locus of control, higher openness to experi-ence, higher conscientiousness, and higher emotional stability than their peers who do not practice sport.

Participants and procedure

Young people who took part in the study were both those who attended schools with sport education programs and those who attended non-sport schools. 63 students of the sixth grade of primary school and the first grade of junior high school were surveyed (M = 12.60). Two groups were distinguished: students who followed an extended sports curriculum practicing football and basketball (n = 31), and those who followed a standard cur-riculum (n = 32). The Questionnaire for Locus of Control and the Picture Based Personality Survey for Children, based on the Big Five model, were used in the analyses.

Results

The results of the studies partially confirmed the assumed hypotheses and showed connections between locus of control in situations of failure and openness to experience in the group of athletes.

Conclusions

This study constitutes a summary of the first stage of a three-year longitudinal project. Conclusions from the study will allow characterization of developmental changes of locus of control and personality traits in young athletes. Assessment of personality profile constitutes help for sport psychology practitioners in preparing train-ing that uses accurate reinforcement systems corresponding with the traits of players that are members of a team.
Bebidas e comidas em celebrações de nascimento e morte: um estudo em comunidades rurais de Sergipe e Bahia
Authors: Menezes Sônia Souza , Bertoni Luci Mara , Santos Rosangela Vasconcelos Raimundo
Published: January 2020

Em algumas comunidades rurais do Brasil, encontramos traços culturais que estão enraizadas no modo de vida de determinadas populações, as quais perpetuam tradições e identificam particularidades vivenciadas em momentos relevantes da sua história. Esses acontecimentos são celebrados e compartilhados entre a família, vizinhos e amigos. Estes sujeitos sociais constroem suas memórias, representações e histórias a partir da relação com as atividades e heranças compartilhadas no encontro entre os tempos curtos e os tempos longos no espaço rural. Ancorado nessa compreensão, o propósito desse estudo consiste em analisar a dimensão simbólica das comidas e bebidas nas celebrações de nascimento e morte em comunidades rurais dos estados de Sergipe e Bahia. Além da revisão teórica, foram realizadas entrevistas em comunidades rurais do estado de Sergipe e Bahia no período de maio de 2016 a janeiro de 2017. Embora não haja relação explícita entre essas comunidades, pudemos perceber muitas semelhanças entre elas na forma de celebrar, no preparo das bebidas e comidas que fazem parte destes rituais que se perpetuam por gerações.

Palavras-chave: Comunidades rurais; bebidas e comidas; celebrações nascimento e morte.
Geografia, paisagem, literatura e geopatrimônio nas obras de Guimarães Rosa
Authors: Evangelista P. Vania Kele , Travassos Luiz Eduardo Panisset
Published: January 2020

A paisagem é um tema muito abordado na geografia desde os tempos mais antigos. Contudo, seu estudo não se limitou a apenas a essa ciência. Despertou interesse em vários outros campos da ciência e em diferentes profissionais como o escritor Guimarães Rosa que teve um olhar especial para as paisagens de Minas Gerais. É nesse cenário com suas serras, chapadas, rios e veredas que o autor criou seus personagens expondo a vida de um povo sofrido e encantador. Diante de tamanha beleza e riqueza de detalhes dos elementos do patrimônio natural descritos pelo autor no sertão mineiro torna-se necessário elencar alguns locais de destaque nas suas obras para que as pessoas, ao visitarem os locais, tenham acesso a informações de cunho turístico, científico e educativo. Nesse viés, a partir da leitura das obras rosianas e dos Marcos Territoriais do Circuito Guimarães Rosa (CGR) surge a proposta de identificação do geopatrimônio e a criação do Roteiro Geoturístico Sertões de Minas Gerais (SMG) que visa contribuir para o desenvolvimento sustentável regional por meio de ações que priorizem as comunidades locais e os elementos físicos descritos pelo escritor.
Negacionismos e Histórias Públicas Reacionárias: Os usos abusivos do passado em tempos de pós-verdade
Authors: Meneses Sônia
Published: January 2020

Resumo: Este artigo problematiza a emergência de histórias públicas reacionárias e novos negacionismo influenciados pela profusão de narrativas históricas vinculadas aos meios de comunicação e às ideias de pós-verdade.  Assim, destacam-se as relações entre história e abusos do passado, difusão de narrativas históricas e consumo. Ao final, aponta para os desafios colocados ao próprio lugar da produção histórica e dos historiadores frente a essa produção.
Palavras-chave: História Pública, Pós-Verdade, Negacionismo, Consumo.
Arte como imaginário da cidade
Authors: Rufinoni Priscila Rossinetti , Bisol Benedetta
Published: January 2020

Este artigo trata de investigar as elaborações visuais de estudantes do ensino médio do Distrito Federal que participaram das oficinas do projeto experimental “A Quem pertence a cidade?”. A análise leva em conta elementos e signos visuais em circulação e como eles são articulados pelos estudantes em suas criações coletivas de mapas da sua cidade.
The Role of Macroeconomic Variables in Sovereign Risk
Authors: Zairis George , Zairis Antonios
Published: January 2020

The sovereign debt market has gathered a lot of attention post the global financial recession therefore it is very important to study how the countries of the eurozone countries can be shielded from all internal and external risks. This can be achieved by examining the macroeconomic determinants of the sovereign risk. Based on the results of the panel regression, it becomes evident which financial indicators are contributing to the sovereign risk. In terms of the stochastic properties, when homogeneity is assumed among the cross-sectional units, all the variables appeared to be level stationary except for the total government bond yield. However, when heterogeneity is assumed among the countries, variables such total government bond yield, GDS as a percentage of GDP, total credit to private sector, employment as a ratio to total GDP, and bank credit are level none stationary. Consequently, these findings will help identify the variables that can be used to approximate the movement of the government bond yield.
Elementos de semiótica en el diseño arquitectónico
Authors: Aguilar Erasmo José , Vargas Maria De los Ángeles , Zamora Yolanda Celeste
Published: January 2020

En este artículo se abordó de manera puntual los aspectos más destacados sobre la Semiótica Arquitectónica, centrada en su aplicación en el diseño de cualquier tipología arquitectónica. Se destacó la importancia de conocer y aplicar la semiótica arquitectónica al momento de concebir espacios de hábitat y uso humano que contemplen todas las necesidades y expectativas del usuario. Para comprender eficaz y plenamente este relevante tema, fue de suma necesidad resaltar la dimensión de elementos como la textura, color, formas, sensaciones, sentimientos y percepciones que influyen significativamente en el proceso de interacción entre el usuario y el espacio proyectado. La importancia, como diseñador de conocer adecuadamente sobre el tema de semiótica arquitectónica radica en plantear la posibilidad de diseñar cualquier obra, apegada a los aspectos esenciales para lograr un apropiado equilibrio de confort y bienestar que provea sensaciones positivas, satisfaciendo los gustos y preferencias del usuario que la habite.