bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing the Automation Degree in Wiring Harness Assembly by Extending the Standard Crimping Machines by Developed Assembly Concept
Authors: Heisler Paul , Hoessle Stefan , Franke Jörg
Published: October 2017

In the automotive industry, the assembly of wiring harnesses is done mostly manually. This leads to high labour costs as well as a high number of defects. In order to minimize these disadvantages, both industry and research made huge efforts in recent decades to increase the level of automation in the assembly of wiring harness modules. The fully automated crimping and blockloading machine e.g. Komax Zeta 656, is already successfully used in the industry as a machine for the automated assembly of small wiring harnesses. But still, there is a great potential to increase efficiency and quality in the assembly of wiring harnesses. This paper presents a newly developed machine concept for the fully automated assembly of wiring harnesses. It is shown that the new system can provide higher production efficiency compared to both the competitive systems and manual assembly. The presented concept also helps saving resources as it uses the standard crimping machine as e.g. Komax Alpha 355 as a basis which is already present in many wiring harness factories. To set up the presented mounting machine the Komax Alpha has not to be fully replaced, but only to be extended by a few components.
Enhancement of Production Planning and Scheduling by Aspects of Compressed Air Demand and Cost
Authors: Böhm Ralf , Oezkurt Cenk , Diehm Florian , Schnieders Heiko , Franke Jörg
Published: October 2017

In industrial companies, production orders are distributed to production equipment using tools of production planning and scheduling (PPS). Main targets are to approach full capacity and profit maximization. As a further dimension of optimization, the demand of compressed air of individual production steps and time-varying cost of compressed air due to fluctuating electricity prices can be considered in PPS systems. Hereby it is attempted to execute production steps associated with significant demand of compressed air in times of low compressed air cost. Based on the approach, a methodology for implementation of compressed air demand into a PPS tool is developed.
Simulation-Based Development and Validation of Energy Management Concepts
Authors: Zizler Elisabeth , Wenk Matthias , Bräutigam Benedikt
Published: October 2017

This paper presents a method to support the development of energy management concepts for machine and plant construction. The energy management concepts are required to put the plant components into an energy saving mode during unproductive phases. These concepts then have to be implemented in the control software. Different dependencies in the production and process flow have to be considered when developing the concepts. Due to the complexity of production plants, a supporting simulation tool is planned to be implemented. With the aid of this tool, different energy management concepts and their derived control software can already be validated virtually in the planning and development phase. This presents an energetic extension of the so-called virtual commissioning concept. Conventional virtual commissioning involves only the process operation functionality in a virtual simulation model of the plant. Now, however, energetic functionalities are assigned to the different model components. Thus, a simulation of the energy consumption in different operation modes can be created for each component. Energy management concepts can only be developed if the components’ energy consumption is known in the different scenarios.
Production Process Modeling for Demand Side Management
Authors: Kabelitz Stefanie , Kolomiichuk Sergii
Published: October 2017

The supply of electricity is growing increasingly dependent on the weather as the share of renewable energies increases. Different measures can nevertheless maintain grid reliability and quality. These include the use of storage technologies, upgrades of the grid and options for responsiveness to supply and demand. This paper focuses on demand side management and the use of flexibility in production processes. First, the framework of Germany’s energy policy is presented and direct and indirect incentives for businesses to seek as well as to provide flexibility capabilities are highlighted. Converting this framework into a mixed integer program leads to multi-objective optimization. The challenge inherent to this method is realistically mapping the different objectives that affect business practices directly and indirectly in a variety of laws. An example is introduced to demonstrate the complexity of the model and examine the energy flexibility. Second, manufacturing companies’ energy efficiency is assessed under the frequently occurring conditions of heavily aggregated energy consumption data and of information with insufficient depth of detail to perform certain analyses, formulate actions or optimize processes. The findings obtained from the energy assessment and energy consumption projections are used to model the production system’s energy efficiency and thus facilitate optimization. Methods of data mining and machine learning are employed to project energy consumption. Aggregated energy consumption data and different production and environmental parameters are used to assess indirectly measured consumers and link projections of energy consumption with the production schedule.
Terrain image maps from SAR fusion techniques
Authors: Singhroy V , Barnett P , Assouad P , Molch K
Published: October 2017

Our results have shown that selective processing of RADARSAT-1 images have assisted in regional terrain mapping of large areas the northern boreal forest region in Canada. Terrain roughness information derived from RADARSAT-1 when fused with high resolution DEM
data provided image maps that are useful for landform interpretation.
GeoConnections geospatial return on investment case study: PRISM-GIS and PRISM-911
Authors: Stewart M A
Published: October 2017

In late 2009 GeoConnections commissioned a Geospatial Return on Investment Case Study to add to the body of knowledge of case studies based on the GITA ROI methodology for financial analysis of geospatial projects. The study focuses on the PRISM-GIS and PRISM-911
applications developed by the City of Quinte West in Southern Ontario. PRISM-GIS, launched in 2007, assists First Responders during emergency situations in the field and at the Central Command Centre and facilitates communication between the field and the Command Centre. PRISM-911, launched in 2008,
provides emergency notification by telephone.
Backward-looking five-year analysis of Quinte West PRISM: Total investment has been $130,757 (2006 $CA). Cumulative benefits are $405,972 (2006 $CA). Net Present Value is $275,215 (2006 $CA), with an annualized Return on Investment of 42.1%. Breakeven point was reached in 2008, two years into
the project. The greatest tangible benefit is lowered risk to public health. Considerable benefits were also found from efficiencies in transferring manual notification to automated notification.
Forward-looking 15-year analysis of Quinte West PRISM: Cumulative benefits are $3.5M. Net Present Value is $3.1M with an annualized Return on Investment of 54.33%. Payback period is under one year as a result of startup costs being externalized into the backward-looking study. This high rate of
return and short payback period reflects the dramatic benefits realized through leveraging the initial work done by the City of Quinte West.
Sensitivity analysis: A combined 19-year analysis of Quinte West PRISM showed Net Present Value of $3.109M. ROI is 31.66%. Sensitivity analysis was also performed on the combined 19-year business case showing only benefits to the City of Quinte West, by removing public benefits. Net Present
Value to the city alone is $1.261M, with an ROI of 12.84%.
Huron County is Quinte West's first external client for PRISM. Huron recently leased PRISM from the City of Quinte West, launching it in November 2009.
Forward-looking 16-year analysis of Huron County PRISM: Cumulative benefits are $4,154,920 with a Net Present Value of $3,503,431 and an annualized Return on Investment of 33.61%. Payback period is one year. Huron County's Net Present Value is approximately $400,000 higher than the Quinte West
combined study NPV, predominantly a result of greater public benefits from automated notification of Boil Water Advisories. A province-wide analysis illustrates potential costs and benefits if 50 municipalities, counties or regions adopt the system. Cumulative benefits are $163M over the 15-year
analysis. Net Present Value is $132M with an annualized Return on Investment of 28.52%. Payback period is
one year.
Sensitivity analysis was performed to show the effect of slow ramp-up of 50 agency implementations of PRISM over the lifetime of the analysis. This forward-looking 15-year analysis showed Net Present Value of $79.3M. ROI for the ramped study is 26.03%. Cumulative benefits for the ramped study
are $100M.
Canada's Plant Hardiness Zones and Extreme Minimum Temperature Zones
Authors: McKenney D W , Pedlar J H , Lawrence K , Papadopol P , Campbell K , Hutchinson M F , Kramers R E , Rose I , Monette J , Morisset N
Published: October 2017

This third edition of the plant hardiness zones map shows the different zones in Canada where various types of trees, shrubs and flowers will most likely survive. The map is based on a formula using seven important variables that influence plant survival:
1. Monthly mean of the daily minimum temperatures of the coldest month
2. Mean frost-free period (above 0°C) in days
3. Amount of rainfall from June to November
4. Monthly mean of the daily maximum temperatures of the warmest month
5. A winter harshness index related to rainfall in January
6. Mean maximum snow depth
7. Maximum wind gust in 30 year period
The original map was developed by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in the early 1960s based on average values from 1930 to 1960. This new map uses 1981 to 2010 averages. The map shown at right and on the reverse side shows an alternative plant hardiness zone approach using just one climate variable:
the average of the annual extreme minimum temperature for the period 1981 to 2010.
This approach was originally developed by scientists at the United States Department of Agriculture (www.usna.usda.gov/Hardzone/).
To view an interactive version of this map and for more information on plant hardiness zones in Canada, please go to the following Web site: www.planthardiness.gc.ca
A Case of Fahr's Disease Presenting as Chorea Successfully Treated by the Use of Quetiapine
Authors: Kono Syoichiro , Manabe Yasuhiro , Tanaka Tomotaka , Fujii Daiki , Sakai Yasuko , Narai Hisashi , Omori Nobuhiko , Abe Koji
Published: October 2017

We report a case of 30-year-old man presenting chorea in his legs. A brain computed tomography (CT) scan showed bilateral symmetric calcifications in the basal ganglia, thalamus, cerebellum and subcortical white matter. Laboratory studies showed no abnormalities of serum calcium, phosphate, PTH, lactic acid, pyruvic acid and cerebrospinal fluid. Under the diagnosis of Fahr's disease (FD), we treated with quetiapine (75 mg/day), which completely abolished his symptoms and he showed no other side effect. Our experience suggests that quetiapine is well tolerated in FD patients and effectively treats chorea without extrapyramidal movement.
Common Variable Immunodeficiency Associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Type I Diabetes
Authors: Filipović Branka , Šporčić Zorica , Randjelović Tomislav , Nikolić Goran
Published: October 2017

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a heterogeneous group of primary immunodeficiency disorders characterized by defective antibody production, low levels of serum immunoglobulins and increased susceptibility to infection. The patient was a 39-year-old male who was admitted to the gastroenterology department with a two week history of diarrhea, blunt abdominal pain below the umbilicus, prolonged febrile state, loss of appetite and loss of body weight of 18 kg during the previous six months. Screening tests of serum immunoglobulins showed decreased concentrations of three types of immunoglobulins: IgA < 0.24 g/L, IgM < 0.18 g/L and IgG < 1.55 g/L. Lymphocytes immunophenotypisation revealed inversed CD4+/8+ T cells ratio, 0.31 and absence of plasma cells (CD138 negative). Colonoscopy showed a rectal mucosa like cobblestones with multiple longitudinal and serpentinous ulceration, without involvement of other segments of the colon and the small intestine. Histopathology revealed aphtous ulcerative lesions, transmural inflammation with multiple lymphoid aggregates and benign lymphoid nodular hyperplasia of the small intestine. Plasma cells were absent from the lamina propria. Magnetic resonance imaging of a perianal fistula demonstrated a trans-sphicteric type. This case is specific because of the three illnesses associated and only one case of an association of diabetes mellitus type I and immunodeficiency reported thus far.
Photon-deficient Mass on FDG-PET Scan in Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Shih George , Shih Wei-Jen , Mitchell Bonnie , Milan Primo P
Published: October 2017

F-18 Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography imaging (F-18 FDG PET) detects malignancies depending on the uptake profile of glycolysis of tumors; however, the role of FDG PET is limited in the evaluation of primary renal malignancy because of low FDG uptake by renal cell carcinoma and also because normal urinary excretion of FDG seen in the images. A patient with renal cell carcinoma whose FDG PET imaging study incidentally shows a photon-deficient mass in the upper pole of the right kidney is present here. The diagnosis is also validated by the histopathological findings of tumor necrosis, hemorrhage, and scars.
Anti-PR3 and Anti-MPO IgG ANCA in Autistic Children with Chronic GI Disease
Authors: Russo A.J. , Krigsman A , Jepson B , Wakefield Andrew
Published: October 2017

Aim

To assess both ant-PR3 and anti-MPO IgG anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA), in autistic children with gastrointestinal symptoms and controls, and to test the hypothesis that there is an association between the presence of these antibodies and inflammatory GI disease seen in many autistic children.

Subjects and Methods

ELISA's were used to measure anti-PR3 and anti-MPO IgG in 40 autistic children with chronic digestive disease (many with ileo-colonic lymphoid nodular hyperplasia (LNH) and inflammation of the colorectum, small bowel and/or stomach), and 41 controls (21 age matched autistic children with no GI disease and 20 age matched children without autism or GI disease).

Results

Six of 40 autistic children with chronic digestive disease had anti-PR3 antibodies compared to none of the 41 controls (p <0.01). Thirteen of the 40 autistic children with chronic digestive disease had anti-MPO IgG compared to only 3 (1 autistic control with no GI disease and 2 non-autistic controls without GI disease) of 41 controls (p <0.001). All six of those with anti-PR3 IgG also had anti-MPO antibodies. These results suggest a relationship between individuals with ANCA and severity of intestinal disease in a subset.

Discussion

These results suggest an association between anti-PR3 and anti-MPO antibodies and a subset of ASD children with GI inflammation.
HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1, and -DQB1 Allele Lineages and Haplotype Frequencies among Saudis
Authors: Osman Awad E. , Gonzalez-Galarza Faviel F. , Mubasher Mohamed , Al-Harthi Hanan , Elsheikh Nezar Eltayeb , Berka Noureddine , Middleton Derek , Elghazali Gehad
Published: October 2017

There are few reported studies on Saudi population for human leukocyte antigens (HLA) genes. We investigated allele lineages (two-digit) and haplotype frequencies of HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1, and -DQB1 loci in 499 healthy unrelated individuals, selected from potential bone marrow transplant (BMT) families’ donors at King Fahad Medical City (KFMC), Saudi Arabia (SA). Genotyping was performed by Sequence Specific Oligonucleotide Probe (SSOP) utilizing a Luminex-based method. Allele lineages and haplotype frequencies were evaluated along with principal component analysis (PCA) to compare findings with previously reported data on Arab related populations. A total of 18 allele lineages for HLA-A, 28 for -B, 14 for -C, 13 for -DRB1, and 5 for -DQB1 were detected. High values for linkage disequilibrium indicators were found for B:C ( D’ = 0.86599) and DRB1:DQB1 ( D’ = 0.89468) loci. Additionally, PCA results confirmed previous findings on this population, but also indicated some genetic distances from other Arab related populations. The present study helps in further investigations of this population in anthropological analysis and HLA-associated disease studies.
2017 W.R. Whitney Award: Perspectives on Chloride Interactions with Passive Oxides and Oxide Film Breakdown
Authors: Natishan P.M.
Published: October 2017

The nature of passivity and its breakdown have garnered great interest before and since Schonbein used the term “passivity” in 1836 to describe the “altered state” of iron. There has been a large body of experimental work, and a number of theories describing passivity and its breakdown leading to pitting corrosion have been proposed. However, there continues to be debate on this topic, which includes the discussion as to whether pit initiation is controlled by oxide film breakdown or by the pit growth kinetics. This communication will focus on oxide film breakdown without drawing any conclusions on the rate controlling step. As all currently proposed mechanisms require Cl− interactions for oxide film breakdown in Cl-containing environments, the question becomes what is the nature of the interaction of Cl− with the passive film, adsorption and/or incorporation, or neither? The interaction of Cl− with the passive film on pure aluminum and Type 316 stainless steel will be reviewed and summarized using available experimental data concerning Cl− interactions both from prior work at the Naval Research Laboratory and work reported in the literature. A point will be made that choosing the appropriate experimental procedure and data analysis is of great importance for getting high-fidelity data.
Impact of aerosol hygroscopic growth on retrieving aerosol extinction coefficient profiles from elastic-backscatter lidar signals
Authors: Zhao Gang , Zhao Chunsheng , Kuang Ye , Tao Jiangchuan , Tan Wangshu , Bian Yuxuan , Li Jing , Li Chengcai
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Light detection and ranging (lidar) measurements have been widely used to profile the ambient aerosol extinction coefficient (σext). The particle extinction-to-backscatter ratio (lidar ratio, LR), which strongly depends on the aerosol dry particle number size distribution (PNSD) and aerosol hygroscopicity, is introduced to retrieve the σext profile from elastic-backscatter lidar signals. Conventionally, a constant column-integrated LR that is estimated from aerosol optical depth is used by the retrieving algorithms. In this paper, the influences of aerosol PNSD, aerosol hygroscopic growth and relative humidity (RH) profiles on the variation in LR are investigated based on the datasets from field measurements in the North China Plain (NCP). Results show that LR has an enhancement factor of 2.2 when RH reaches 92 %. Simulation results indicate that both the magnitude and vertical structures of the σext profiles by using the column-related LR method are significantly biased from the original σext profile. The relative bias, which is mainly influenced by RH and PNSD, can reach up to 40 % when RH at the top of the mixed layer is above 90 %. A new algorithm for retrieving σext profiles and a new scheme of LR enhancement factor by RH in the NCP are proposed in this study. The relative bias between the σext profile retrieved with this new algorithm and the ideal true value is reduced to below 13 %.
The regulation of coralline algal physiology, an in situ study of Corallina officinalis (Corallinales, Rhodophyta)
Authors: Williamson Christopher James , Perkins Rupert , Voller Matthew , Yallop Marian Louise , Brodie Juliet
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Calcified macroalgae are critical components of marine ecosystems worldwide, but face considerable threat both from climate change (increasing water temperatures) and ocean acidification (decreasing ocean pH and carbonate saturation). It is thus fundamental to constrain the relationships between key abiotic stressors and the physiological processes that govern coralline algal growth and survival. Here we characterize the complex relationships between the abiotic environment of rock pool habitats and the physiology of the geniculate red coralline alga, Corallina officinalis (Corallinales, Rhodophyta). Paired assessment of irradiance, water temperature and carbonate chemistry, with C. officinalis net production (NP), respiration (R) and net calcification (NG) was performed in a south-western UK field site, at multiple temporal scales (seasonal, diurnal and tidal). Strong seasonality was observed in NP and night-time R, with a Pmax of 22.35 µmol DIC (g DW)−1 h−1, Ek of 300 µmol photons m−2 s−1 and R of 3.29 µmol DIC (g DW)−1 h−1 determined across the complete annual cycle. NP showed a significant exponential relationship with irradiance (R2 = 0.67), although was temperature dependent given ambient irradiance  > Ek for the majority of the annual cycle. Over tidal emersion periods, dynamics in NP highlighted the ability of C. officinalis to acquire inorganic carbon despite significant fluctuations in carbonate chemistry. Across all data, NG was highly predictable (R2 = 0.80) by irradiance, water temperature and carbonate chemistry, providing a NGmax of 3.94 µmol CaCO3 (g DW)−1 h−1 and Ek of 113 µmol photons m−2 s−1. Light NG showed strong seasonality and significant coupling to NP (R2 = 0.65) as opposed to rock pool water carbonate saturation. In contrast, the direction of dark NG (dissolution vs. precipitation) was strongly related to carbonate saturation, mimicking abiotic precipitation dynamics. Data demonstrated that C. officinalis is adapted to both long-term (seasonal) and short-term (tidal) variability in environmental stressors, although the balance between metabolic processes and the external environment may be significantly impacted by future climate change.
Biodiversity and trophic ecology of hydrothermal vent fauna associated
with tubeworm assemblages on the Juan de Fuca Ridge
Authors: Lelièvre Yann , Sarrazin Jozée , Marticorena Julien , Schaal Gauthier , Day Thomas , Legendre Pierre , Hourdez Stéphane , Matabos Marjolaine
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Hydrothermal vent sites along the Juan de Fuca Ridge in the north-east Pacific host dense populations of Ridgeia piscesae tubeworms that promote habitat heterogeneity and local diversity. A detailed description of the biodiversity and community structure is needed to help understand the ecological processes that underlie the distribution and dynamics of deep-sea vent communities. Here, we assessed the composition, abundance, diversity and trophic structure of six tubeworm assemblages, corresponding to different successional stages, collected on the Grotto hydrothermal edifice (Main Endeavour, Juan de Fuca Ridge) at 2196 m depth. Including R. piscesae, a total of 36 macrofaunal taxa were identified to the species level. Although polychaetes made up the most diverse taxon, faunal densities were dominated by gastropods. Most tubeworm aggregations were numerically dominated by the polychaete Amphisamytha carldarei and gastropods Lepetodrilus fucensis and Depressigyra globulus. The highest diversities were found in mature tubeworm aggregations, characterized by fairly long tubes. The high biomass of grazers and the high resource partitioning at small scale illustrates the importance of the diversity of free-living microbial communities in the maintenance of the food web. Although symbiont-bearing invertebrates R. piscesae represented a large part of the total biomass, the absence of specialized predators on this potential food source suggests that its primary role lies in community structuring. Vent food webs did not appear to be organized through predator-prey relationships. For example, although trophic structure complexity increased with ecological successional stages, showing a higher number of predators in the last stages, the food web structure itself did not change across assemblages. We suggest that environmental gradients provided by the biogenic structure of tubeworm bushes generate a multitude of ecological niches and contribute to the partitioning of nutritional resources, releasing communities from competition pressure for resources, thus allowing species co-existence.
Aerodynamic Performance of the NREL S826 Airfoil in Icing Conditions
Authors: Krøgenes Julie , Brandrud Lovisa , Hann Richard , Bartl Jan , Bracchi Tania , Sætran Lars
Published: October 2017

Abstract. The demand for wind power is rapidly increasing, creating opportunities for wind farm installations in more challenging climates. Cold climate areas, where ice accretion can be an issue, are often sparsely populated and have high wind energy potential. Icing may lead to severely reduced aerodynamic performance and thereby reduced power output. To reach a greater understanding of how icing affects the aerodynamics of a wind turbine blade, three representative icing cases; rime ice, glaze ice and a mixed ice, were deﬁned and investigated experimentally and computationally. Experiments at Re = 1.0 × 105–4.0 × 105 were conducted in the low-speed wind tunnel at NTNU on a two dimensional wing with applied 3D-printed ice shapes, determining lift, drag and surface pressure distributions. Computational results, obtained from the Reynolds Averaged Navier–Stokes ﬂuid dynamics code FENSAP, complement the experiments. Measured and predicted data show a reduction in lift for all icing cases. Most severe is the mixed ice case, with a lift reduction of up to 30 % in the linear lift area, compared to a clean reference airfoil. Computational results show an under-prediction in maximum lift of 7–18 % compared to experimental values. Curvature and tendencies for both lift and drag show good agreement between simulations and experiment.
Vol 26 (2016): Supplement 1
Authors: - -
Published: October 2017

The 23rd Norwegian Conference on Epidemiology
DC conductivity of polyethylene and crosslinked polyethylene measured with a dynamic temperature program
Authors: Ghorbani Hossein , Olsson Carl-Olof , Jeroense Marc
Published: October 2017

Electrical conductivity of HVDC cable insulation materials is important for its function. It is very practical to evaluate this parameter by DC conductivity measurements on press molded polymeric plates samples. While in real operation conditions, the insulation undergoes both static and dynamic thermal conditions, most of the published research in this area is still focused only on steady state thermal conditions. In this work, the focus is instead on the behavior of electrical conductivity under dynamic thermal conditions. Press molded XLPE and LDPE plate samples with different preparations are tested under 25 kV/mm DC field with a dynamic temperature profile ranging from room temperature to 90 °C.It was discovered that in many cases, the measured conductivity during dynamic measurements strongly deviates from the expected Arrhenius temperature dependence; instead the conductivity shows a nonmonotonictemperature dependence manifested as conductivity peaks during heating and cooling. The behavior is found to be strongly related to the type of protective film used during press molding of the sample; further degassing leads to a reduction of the nonmonotonic temperature dependence and with longdegassing the behavior tends to the expected Arrhenius temperature dependence.
SI streamer initiation and breakdown in pressurized technical air in sphere-plane geometries
Authors: Hjortsam Olof , Faleke Håkan , Larsson Mats
Published: October 2017

The breakdown properties of air are well studied at ambient pressure. For higher pressures, less information can be found in the literature. In this paper, switching impulse breakdown properties in technical air as a function of pressure are investigated. The study focus on a spherical electrodes with 30 mm and 10 mm diameter with a distance to a ground plane of 100 mm. From prebreakdown photomultiplier signals and photographs taken with an ultrahigh-speed camera also the initiation voltages are measured. From the analysis of the results, streamer initiation fields as well as propagation fields are extracted. As expected, the breakdown voltages as well as the initiation voltages increases with pressure, for both positive and negative polarity. Streamer integrals are used to evaluate the initiation fields. The observed streamer initiation voltage agrees well with streamer integral theory in the studied pressure range 1 Bar to 6 Bar. The pressure dependence of streamer propagation is also analyzed and is found to approximately scale linear with the pressure for both polarities.
Breakdown Behaviour of Damaged Low-Voltage Cables: Laboratory Experiments and Field Experience
Authors: Kruizinga B. , Wouters P.A.A.F. , Steennis E.F.
Published: October 2017

Faults in Low-Voltage (LV) cables commonly develop from earlier inflicted damage. Outages can be preceded by high-current transients of duration too short to activate protective devices like fuses. This paper explores such early signatures of possible upcoming faults both by laboratory experiments and in a field study.Upon exposure of moisture the breakdowns and their voltage and current characteristics are investigated for two LV cable types (OIP and PVC). In laboratory tests, a clear intermittent behaviour is observed. Typical breakdown signals show a current transient igniting around the voltage peak and its extinction is usually close to the voltage zero crossing. LV grid faults should be distinguished from events occurring in connected households. Though signal patterns can be comparable, a distinction can usually be made, mainly based on current peak values because of the interruption characteristics of household miniature circuit breakers. A pilot study involving 23 connections in the LV grid has shown similar signals as obtained in the laboratory tests. Typical cable fault related transients were observed beforehand. This indicates a correlation of such transients and the likelihood of an outage. A large variation of the time to an outage was observed ranging from several hours to several months.
Breakdown in short rod-plane air gaps under positive lightning impulse stress
Authors: Meyer Hans Kristian Hygen , Mauseth Frank , Husøy Martine , Pedersen Atle , Ekeberg Jonas
Published: October 2017

Prediction of withstand voltages in air-insulated systems are made on the basis of empirical models that are not sufficiently accurate for complex geometries. Better understanding of the spatiotemporal development of electrical discharges is necessary to improve the present models. Discharges in lightning impulse stressed 20–100 mm rod-plane gaps are examined using a highspeed camera, photo-multiplier tubes (PMTs) and a highbandwidth current measurement system. The images and measurements of gaps larger than 20mm show a fast initial streamer discharge with a current rise time of some tens of ns, followed by a dark period of a few μs and a propagation of a slower leader-type channel leading to breakdown. The breakdown mechanisms in the shortest gaps are faster and geometry dependent, probably occuring by heating of initial streamer channels. Different light filters used with the PMTs indicate that all parts of the leader-type discharge development emit light over a spectrum from UV to IR. The initial discharges emit low amounts of warm light and IR compared to the leader-type channel. Finally, it is suggested that empirical breakdown voltage prediction models should be interpreted in light of the leader-type breakdown mechanism.
The state of public hospital governance and management in a South African hospital: A case study
Authors: Fusheini Adam , Eyles John , Goudge Jane
Published: October 2017

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine the operations and management of a public hospital in South Africa in the light of recent organizational reforms. Management of public hospitals in South Africa is often seen as fragmented, impacting on their operations. Management processes are dominated by hierarchy and poor communication and interaction. They are also poorly linked to patients’ needs and experiences. In this paper, we examine the operations and management of a district hospital in North West Province to ascertain the extent to which the nature of hierarchy, communication, and interaction in the management process (meetings, establishing guidelines and others) impact on the efficient and effective governance of the hospital, especially in the light of recent organizational reforms.Methods: A qualitative case study approach involving 15 in-depth interviews were conducted at three management levels. All interviews were conducted in English, and were digitally audio-recorded and professionally transcribed. Management and organization of data were done with NVivo 10 software, while analyses were based on pattern-building and emerging themes.Results: By and large the hospital was constrained by hierarchical control and rule-following. While hierarchy and dysfunction still shape communication and interaction, there is some optimism with regards to strategic planning. Key features of hospital governance and its functionality, involving financial management or stewardship, strategic planning, performance management and appraisal, and clinical governance are emphasized.Conclusions: For effective public hospital governance in South Africa, management must be guided in practice by the key principles set out in the national policy on management of public hospitals.
Intraureteral lidocaine for ureteral stent symptoms post-ureteroscopy: A randomized, phase 2, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Roberts Gregory , Leslie Robert , Robb Syliva , Siemens D. Robert , Beiko Darren
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Ureteral stent and ureteral manipulation-related pain is a significant complication for patients undergoing ureteroscopy. Herein, we report a phase 2, randomized trial to assess efficacy of direct instillation of intraureteral lidocaine in reducing postoperative pain and ureteral stent symptoms.Methods: We performed a randomized, double-blinded trial of patients undergoing elective ureteroscopy for ureteral calculi. Patients were randomized to direct instillation of 2% lidocaine plus bicarbonate, or to normal saline as control. The primary outcome of interest was early postoperative pain scores. Patients completed10-point visual analog pain scale at one-hour, two-hour, four-hour, 24-hours, four- and seven-day time points. Other outcome measurements collected included a medication diary and voiding questionnaire.Results: A total of 41 patients were randomized in the study. Mean flank pain scores at one hour were 2.2 (±2.9) vs.1.9 (±2.4) in the intervention and placebo group, respectively (p=0.84). There was no significant difference at any time point between the intervention and placebo groups in patient-reported pain scores. Patients reported lower dysuria scores at all time points in the lidocaine group, however, none reached statistical significance. There was no difference in complication rates or adverse effects between groups.Conclusions: In this randomized, phase 2 study, direct instillation of lidocaine into the ureter did not appear to significantly improve pain or voiding symptoms following stented ureteroscopy.
A population-based study of the use of radium 223 in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer: Factors associated with treatment completion
Authors: Parimi Sunil , Tsang Erica , Alexander Abraham , McKenzie Michael , Bachand Francois , Sunderland Katherine , Chi Kim N. , Aparicio Maria , Worsley Daniel , Tyldesley Scott
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Radium 223 (Ra223) given for six cycles has proven efficacy in clinical trials, but its population-level generalizability has not been well-described. The objectives of this study were to describe population-based Ra223 use in the abiraterone and enzalutamide era and identify factors associated with completion.Methods: All Ra223 patients at the British Columbia Cancer Agency between September 2013 and February 2016 were identified. Patients who completed <5 vs. ≥5 cycles were compared on patient characteristics, lines of prior therapy, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) decline >30% from baseline (R30%), and survival, to identify factors associated with therapy completion.Results: Ninety-one patients were identified; 48 (52.7%) completed ≥5 cycles. Median overall survival (mOS) was 10.7 months, PSA and ALP R30% were 21% and 52%, respectively. Completion of <5 cycles was associated with higher baseline ALP (p=0.05) and lower baseline hemoglobin (Hb) levels (p=0.03). Patients in the ≥5 cycles group had longer mOS than those in the <5 cycles group (16.2 vs. 5.9 months; p<0.0001), as well as higher PSA R30% (33.3% vs. 7.0%; p=0.002) and ALP R30% (66.7% vs. 34.9%; p=0.03). Patients with ALP ≥220 and Hb ≤118 had 3.85 times the odds of not completing ≥5 cycles vs. ALP <220 and Hb >118.Conclusions: Compared to clinical trials, patients in a populationbased setting had more lines of therapy and shorter survival. Lower ALP and higher hemoglobin were associated with completion of ≥5 cycles, longer mOS, and greater incidence of PSA and ALP response.
Hilar control during laparoscopic donor nephrectomy: Practice patterns in Canada
Authors: McGregor Thomas B. , Patel Premal , Chan Gabriel , Sener Alp
Published: October 2017

Introduction: In recent years, the method of vascular control during laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) has come under scrutiny due to catastrophic consequences of a device failure. This study sought to examine the surgical preferences of Canadian donor surgeons with regards to vascular control and their perception on the safety of these modalities. We also surveyed the experience with device malfunction and their subsequent management during LDN.Methods: An online survey was sent out to donor surgeons registered with the Canadian Society of Transplantation. Surveys were anonymous and voluntary. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the collected responses. Recollection of the sequelae and outcomes from device malfunction were also queried.Results: Twenty-eight of 37 surgeons (76% response rate) responded to the survey. At least one surgeon from every institution in Canada performing LDN responded to the survey. Laparoscopic stapler is the most commonly used device for securing the renal artery (61%) and renal vein (67%). Overall, surgeons felt the stapler was the safest method of securing the renal artery. Stapler misfire and clip slippage were reported by eight (28.5%) and 1 2 (43%) surgeons, respectively. Most cases were salvageable: laparoscopically (30%), open conversion (30%), and by hand port (5%). Slippage of a plastic locking clip resulted in one emergent laparotomy on POD#1 and one stapler misfire was converted to open resulting in donor death.Conclusions: Although rare, hemorrhagic complications can occur from device malfunction resulting in poor outcomes for healthy volunteers undergoing LDN. Surgeons need to remain vigilant when selecting the appropriate modality for vascular control.
Case: Secondary polycythemia due to pazopanib in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Bukhari Nedal , Winquist Eric
Published: October 2017

Clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common primary malignant renal neoplasm. Up to 30% of patients have metastatic disease at the time of initial diagnosis.1 Small molecule inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase (VEGFR TKIs) are used as first-line treatment for most patients with incurable RCC. Pazopanib is a TKI inhibiting VEGFR,1-3 as well as plateletderived growth factor receptors (PDGFRs) α and β and stem cell receptor c-kit. The most common side effects of pazopanib are diarrhea, hypertension, changes in hair colour, anorexia, nausea, and vomiting. Severe hepatic toxicity is the adverse effect of greatest concern,but is uncommon. Myelosuppressive effects are also noted, such as anemia, thrombocytopenia, and leukopenia, and are presumably mediated through c-kit inhibition. Erythrocytosis is a wellrecognized paraneoplastic syndrome associated with RCC; however, erythrocytosis due to pazopanib therapy has only recently been described. We report two cases and review of the literature related to this phenomenon.
Positive surgical margin rates during the robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy learning curve of an experienced laparoscopic surgeon
Authors: Adili Anthony F. , Di Giovanni Julia , Kolesar Emma , Wong Nathan C. , Hoogenes Jen , Dason Shawn , Shayegan Bobby
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Since its introduction, robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP) has gained widespread popularity, but is associated with a variable learning curve. Herein, we report the positive surgical margin (PSM) rates during the RARP learning curve of a single surgeon with significant previous laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) experience.Methods: We performed a prospective cohort study of the first 400 men with prostate cancer treated with RARP by a single surgeon (BS) with significant LRP experience. Our primary outcome was the impact of case timing in the learning curve on margin status. Our analysis was conducted by dividing the case numbers into quartiles (Q1‒Q4) and determining if a case falling into an earlier quartile had an impact on margin status relative to the most recent quartile (Q4).Results: The Q1 cases had an odds ratio for margin positivity of 1.74 compared to Q4 (p=0.1). Multivariate logistic regression did not demonstrate case number to be a significant predictor of PSM. The mean Q1 operative time was 207.4 minutes, decreasing to 179.2 by Q4 (p<0.0001). The mean Q1 estimated blood loss was 255.1 ml, decreasing to 213.6 by Q4 (p=0.0064). There was no change in length of hospitalization within the study period.Conclusions: Even when controlling for copredictors, a statistically significant learning curve for PSM rate of a surgeon with significant previous LRP experience was not detected during the first 400 RARP cases. We hypothesize that previous LRP experience may reduce the RARP PSM learning curve.
Comprehension and construct validity of the Visual Prostate Symptom Score by men with obstructive lower urinary tract symptoms in rural Africa
Authors: Stothers Lynn , Macnab Andrew , Bajunirwe Francis , Mutabazi Sharif , Lobatt Catherine
Published: October 2017

Introduction: The Visual Prostate Symptom Score (VPSS) is an image-based interpretation of the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) intended to quantify frequency, nocturia, weak stream, and quality of life (QoL) in a literacy-independent manner.Methods: Ugandan men presenting with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) to a rural clinic completed VPSS and IPSS independently and then with assistance. They verbally interpreted VPSS images, rated question usefulness, and suggested improvements. Responses between word-based and image-based measures were compared (Student’s T, Fisher’s exact, and Spearman’s correlation tests).Results: 132 scores from 33 men (mean age: 61 years, range 28‒93; education: no schooling 20%, grades 1‒4 62%, 5‒7 9%, 8‒12 9%). Correlation between IPSS and VPSS scores was positive (r= 0.70), as it was between the individual irritative, obstructive, and QoL questions. Independent of education, the weak stream image was best recognized. Likert scale measures indicated this was the most useful image, followed by daytime frequency. Nocturia and QoL images were rated as less clear, with explanation required before most understood that QoL facial expression images reflected overall LUTS impact. Improvements suggested included: increased image size for frequency and nocturia pictograms, increased black/white contrast for nocturia, and addition of an image to allow reporting of urgency.Conclusions: In a population with little formal education, there was positive correlation between IPSS and VPSS, with inherent recognition best for weak stream and worst for QoL images. Increased image clarity and an additional image for urgency will enhance the global utility of the VPSS for men to report symptoms of LUTS.
Acting the Intangible: Hints of Politeness in Non-Verbal Form
Authors: Jumanto Jumanto , Rizal Sarif Syamsu , Nugroho Raden Arief
Published: October 2017

This review paper has explored politeness in non-verbal form to come to hints for indicating the ideology. Politeness in non-verbal form is researched by reviewing verbal politeness theories through interpretive techniques, and then the data in form of interpreted hints based on the reviews are analyzed by employing a coding technique. The six non-verbal hints of politeness found out based on the theoretical reviews are silence for politeness, gestures for politeness, gifts for politeness, observance of norms, rules, and regulations for politeness, adjusted behavior for politeness, and performance for politeness. The hints expectedly provide a sufficient account for non-verbal politeness in interactions or communication between a speaker and a hearer. The findings also encourage promoting harmony among speakers of languages in non-verbal interactions or communication, especially in formal situations or in the general public. The hints are hopefully also worth considering in the context of English language teaching and learning across languages and cultures in the world.
Using Flipped Learning Model in Teaching English Language among Female English Majors in Majmaah University
Authors: Abdelshaheed Bothina S. M.
Published: October 2017

This study aims at investigating the effect of using Flipped Learning Model in teaching English language among female English majors in Majmaah University on their achievement in two different English courses and identifying their feelings and satisfaction about flipping their classes. The study used a pre-post test design and included two experimental groups (n=62). A comparison of students’ scores in pre and post experimentation were carried to identify the effect of the model and size of improvement in students’ achievement. An analysis of students’ responses to an online questionnaire was conducted to reveal their feelings towards the flipped model. Results affirmed the hypotheses of the study and there was a significant higher improvement in students’ scores in post-tests. Students also favored the flipped learning model and had positive feelings towards it.