bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A unified Krylov-Bogoliubov-Mitropolskii method for solving hyperbolic-type nonlinear partial differential systems
Authors: Islam M. Zahurul , Alam M. Shamsul , Hossain M. Bellal
Published: December 2014

A general asymptotic solution is presented for investigating the transient response of non-linear systems modeled by hyperbolic-type partial differential equations with small nonlinearities. The method covers all the cases when eigen-values of the corresponding unperturbed systems are real, complex conjugate, or purely imaginary. It is shown that by suitable substitution for the eigen-values in the general result that the solution corresponding to each of the three cases can be obtained. The method is an extension of the unified Krylov-Bogoliubov-Mitropolskii method, which was initially developed for un-darnped, under-clamped and over-clamped cases of the second order ordinary differential equation. The methods also cover a special condition of the over-damped case in which the general solution is useless.
An extension of the identification algorithm for feedback active control of incomplete measured systems
Authors: Viet La Duc , Anh Nguyen Dong
Published: December 2014

In a previous paper [1], the identification algorithm is presented for feedback active controlled systems. However, this method can only be applied to complete measured systems. The aim of this paper is to present a combination of the identification algorithm and the modal superposition method to control the incomplete measured systems. The system response is expanded by modal eigenfunction technique. The external excitation acting on some first modes is identified with a time delay and with a small error depending on the sensor locations. Then the control forces will be generated to balance the identified excitations. A numerical simulation is applied to an eight story building subjected to base acceleration.
Numerical simulation of the crack 2D by the finite element incorporated the discontinuity
Authors: Giang Nguyen Truong
Published: December 2014

Determining stress intensity factors is important in fracture mechanics. The extended finite element method (XFEM) provides a robust and accurate to determine factors. This paper describes some results from the analysis of cracked plates using XFEM. Extended finite elements allow the entire crack to be represented independently of the meshing. The elements employ discontinuous functions and the facture mechanics two dimensional asymptotic crack tip displacement fields. The Fortran source code of Cast3M applies these elements to a set of examples. The obtained stress and deformation fields are used to compute stress intensity factors via interaction integrals. The results are compared with these obtained from conventional FEM to demonstrate the advantages of the employing the new elements.
A new approach for investigating corrugated laminated composite plates of wave form
Authors: Bich Dao Huy , Phu Khuc Van
Published: December 2014

Corrugated plates of wave form made of isotropic elastic material were considered as flat orthotropic plates with corresponding orthotropic constants determined empirically by the Seydel’s technique. In some recent researches the extension of this technique was given for corrugated laminated composite plates. In the present paper a new approach for investigating corrugated composite plate of wave form is proposed, regarding this plates as a combination of parts of shallow cylindrical shells with alternative curvatures. It reduces to no use of Seydel’s empirical formulas and sufficiently apply to composite plates. Based on this approach governing equations of corrugated laminated composite plate of wave form are developed and application to the non-linear stability problem of this plate is considered. Obtained results are compared with those of Seydel’s technique.
Optimal operation of Hoa Binh reservoir for flood control on Hong-Thai Binh river system
Authors: Can Ngo Huy , Don Nguyen Thanh , Phong Nguyen Hong , Anh Nguyen Tuan , Que Nguyen Van
Published: December 2014

In the paper the optimal operation of Hoabinh reservoir for flood control on Hong–Thai Binh river system is presented. The findings show that in the flood season in 1996 if the operation of gates and outlets of Hoa Binh reservoir was made base on the calculated release, the water level at Hanoi would be 12.3 m and the water level of Hoa Binh reservoir would be 98 m. So the calculated release from Hoabinh reservoir in August 1996 can be considered as optimal in the mean that the water level at Hanoi can be controlled and the Hoabinh reservoir still have necessary pool for controlling the next floods.
Forecasting the discharge into Hoa Binh reservoir by applying the connecting model marine - imech1D
Authors: Cuong Nguyen Tien , Phuong Trinh Thu
Published: December 2014

Da river is the biggest one of three rivers: Da, Thao and Lo which flow into Hong river, so calculating and forecasting correctly the discharge to Hoa Binh reservoir take an important role in managing the task of flood preventing in the Hong - Thai Binh river system. In this paper, a connected hydraulic-hydrological model is developed. The model was applied to forecast the discharge into Hoa Binh reservoir in the flood season 2006. The difference of this connected hydraulic-hydrological model in comparison with the other hydrological models is using the complete Saint-Venant 1D to simulate flow in rivers. Results of verification of the model show that it is good enough for practice.
On modelling and control design for self-balanced two-wheel vehicle
Authors: Quang Nguyen Hoang
Published: December 2014

In this paper, the modeling and control design of a self-balancing mobile robot are presented. The method of sub-structures is employed to derive the differential equations of motion of the robot. Based on the linearized equations of motion, a controller is designed to maintain a stable motion of the robot. Some numerical simulation results are shown to clarify the designed controller.
A molecular dynamics/extended finite element method for dynamic crack propagation
Authors: Aubertin Pascal , Réthoré Julien , Borst René de
Published: December 2014

A multiscale method is presented which couples a molecular dynamics approach for describing fracture at the crack tip with an extended finite element method for discretizing the remainder of the domain. After recalling the basic equations of molecular dynamics and continuum mechanics the discretization is discussed for the continuum subdomain where the partition-of-unity property of finite element shape functions is used, since in this fashion the crack in the wake of its tip is naturally modelled as a traction-free discontinuity. Next, the zonal coupling method between the atomistic and continuum models is described, including an assessment of the energy transfer between both domains for a one-dimensional problem. Finally, a two-dimensional computation is presented of dynamic fracture using the coupled model.
On FSUM model and applications
Authors: Chung Dang Huu
Published: December 2014

In this paper a 3D model (FSUM) on tidal flows with sediment transport and bed morphology process taking into account the temperature-salinity exchange in estuaries and coastal zones is introduced in more detail. The implicit finite difference method based on semi-Lagrange splitting is used. The software is coded with FORTRAN 90/95. The open boundary condition kinds together source/sink terms are well treated so that it can be applied to every computing domain with the complicated geometry. The software is validated and applied for many different cases and shows the ability of application in practice.
Calculation of the wave parameters for sea dyke design and upgrading
Authors: Hung Nguyen Manh , Nghia Nguyen Khac , Dien Duong Cong
Published: December 2014

Sea dyke system is the effective mean for protecting the coastal low-lying areas from storm attack (the most dangerous storm induced phenomena are storm wave and surges). The coastal zone of Vietnam is blessed with wide variety of natural resources but at the same time, it is also a highly storm hazard-prone region. The storm number 7 (DAMREY) arrived in the East Sea from 26th to 28th of September 2005 and hit the south part of Red river delta coastal zone and caused sea dykes breaches at some stretches along the sea dyke system of the Nam Dinh province and big property damages of the local communes. In order to cope with the storm activity which is reinforced in the future by climate change, a Science Technology program on the sea dyke upgrading from Quang Ninh to Quang Nam provided by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has been implemented from April 2007. One of the program’s project is “Determining the wave heights for sea dyke designed along the coastal line from Quang Ninh to Quang Nam” with the object to propose a method for the calculation of the wave parameters with appropriate accuracy, simple for used and suitable for the natural condition of the different sectors of coastal line of Viet Nam from Quang Ninh to Quang Nam provinces and to upgrade and fulfill the wave calculation guideline for sea dyke design and upgrading. In the paper, the authors present the results of the project concerning the input data, wave models and the calculated wave parameters with different returning periods for 5 sectors along the coastal line from Quang Ninh to Quang Nam. The obtained results afford the promising of using in the sea dyke design and upgrading.
Partial derivative of matrix functions with respect to a vector variable
Authors: Khang Nguyen Van
Published: December 2014

The partial derivatives of scalar functions and vector functions with respect to a vector variable are defined and used in dynamics of multibody systems. However the partial derivative of matrix functions with respect to a vector variable is also still limited. In this paper firstly the definitions of partial derivatives of scalar functions, vector functions and matrix functions with respect to a vector variable are represented systematically. After an overview of the matrix calculus related to Kronecker products is presented. Two theorems which specify the relationship between the time derivative of a matrix and its partial derivative with respect to a vector, and the partial derivative of product of two matrices with respect to a vector, are then proved.
Extended averaged equation method and application on analyzing some nonlinear deterministic vibrations
Authors: Anh Nguyen Dong , Hai Ninh Quang , Schiehlen Werner
Published: December 2014

The paper presents an extended averaged equation approach to the investigation of nonlinear vibration problems. The proposed method is applied to some free/self excited oscillator, nonlinear free and forced oscillations of a suspension system with two-degree-of-freedom. The results in analyzing the vibration systems with different nonlinearity show the efficiency and advantages of the method.
Asymptotic solution of the high order partial differential equation
Authors: Da Hoang Van , Son Tran Dinh , Tinh Nguyen Duc
Published: December 2014

In the present paper, the authors have constructed an asymptotic solution of the high order equation with partial derivatives by means of the asymptotic method for the high order systems. The improved first approximation of the solution of the given boundary value problem is determined
About the edge-based smoothed finite element method for the Reissner-Mindlin plate-bending problem
Authors: Hung Nguyen Xuan , Trung Nguyen Thoi
Published: December 2014

The paper further develops the edge-based smoothed finite element method (ES-FEM) for analysis of Reissner-Mindlin plates using triangular meshes. The bending and shearing stiffness matrices are obtained using strain smoothing technique over the smoothing domains associated with edges of elements. Transverse shear locking can be avoided with help of the discrete shear gap (DSG) method. The numerical examples show that the present ES-FEM-DSG method obtains very accurate results compared to the exact solution and other existing elements.
Optimum problem of piezoelectric laminated composite plate using genetic algorithm
Authors: Ngoc Le Kim , Thinh Tran Ich
Published: December 2014

The finite element model based on First Shear Displacement Theory to study the mechanical and electrical behaviors of cantilever laminated composite plate bonded piezoelectric patches on surface is presented. A nine-node isoparametric rectangular element with 5 degrees of freedom for the generalized displacements and 2 electrical degrees of freedom at each node is used. Optimization techniques based on genetic algorithm (GAs) are applied in order to maximize the piezoelectric actuator efficiency, improve the structural performance. The illustrative examples and results of the appropriate applied voltages, position of bonded piezoelectric actuator patches and fiber angle to achieve the desired displacement of the cantilever composite plate are presented.
Combined motion of reservoir with liquid for angular motions of carrying body
Authors: Limarchenko Oleg S.
Published: December 2014

We consider peculiarities of the modeling of wave motion of ideal liquid in a reservoir, which performs inclined motions. For description of behavior of the system we use variational formulation of the problem on the basis of the Hamilton-Ostrogradskiy variational principle with preliminary satisfying all kinematic boundary conditions of the problem. It is shown that this approach makes it possible to reduce considerably the number of unknowns of the problem and reduce it description only to parameters of motion of a liquid free surface and parameters of motion of a carrying body. The constructed nonlinear discrete model of the system was applied for investigation of motion of a reservoir with liquid on pendulum suspension, on taking into account liquid outflow and other problems, which have theoretical and applied meaning.
Can dislocations accelerate through the shear-wave speed “barrier”?
Authors: Markenscoff Xanthippi , Huang Surong
Published: December 2014

The question of whether a dislocation can accelerate through the shear-wave speed “barrier” is addressed by analyzing the transient motion of a Volterra dislocation at the instant when the velocity equals the shear-wave speed in the presence of acceleration, which requires an asymptotic analysis at a double root (–at the transition from subsonic to supersonic a pair of complex conjugate roots becomes a double real —). The stresses carried by the forming Mach wave fronts depend on the acceleration at this instant and are found to be O( ln \(r /r^{1/2}\)) singular for a Volterra dislocation both screw and edge. The energy required to push the dislocation through the shear-wave speed “barrier” is determined by means of the “contour-independent” dynamic J integral which defines the self-force on a moving defect, and is obtained as a function of the acceleration as it crosses the “barrier”. While for a Volterra dislocation the energy-rate is singular at this instant, for a more physically realistic ramp-core “smeared” dislocation model, approximating the Volterra dislocation by a delta sequence, this energy rate is obtained by convolution and is finite, with the same result obtained by the theory of distributions. Thus, crossing the “barrier” is theoretically possible as recent experimental evidence in the literature suggests. A “cut-off” constant that remains undetermined will be found in a multiscale analysis by the matching of the self-force based on atomistic calculations modeling the core to the continuum far-field one obtained here. For decelerating motion through the shear-wave speed “barrier” this energy is released as dissipation.
Unstable behaviour of rocks
Authors: Phong Luong Minh
Published: December 2014

This paper aims to introduce a new non-destructive testing technique in use for detecting the occurrence of material instability and a specific data reduction procedure to access damage accumulation. An input-output non-parametric procedure based on ultrasonic pulse propagation, and a non-linear analyser were chosen to portray the unstable behaviour of brittle rock material under static compressive loading. It can be used to monitor non-destructively and continuously the overall alteration or damage process so that damage mechanisms could be quantitatively estimated by a dimensionless parameter the so-called non-linearity ratio.
Cyclic behavior and energy approach of the fatigue of shape memory alloys
Authors: Moumni Ziad , Zaki Wael , Maitournam Habibou
Published: December 2014

This paper presents an energy-based low-cycle fatigue criterion that can be used in analyzing and designing structures made from shape memory alloys (SMAs) subjected to cyclic loading. Experimentally, a response similar to plastic shakedown is observed: during the first cycles the stress-strain curve shows a hysteresis loop which evolves during the first few cycles before stabilizing. By adopting an analogy with plastic fatigue, it is shown that the dissipated energy of the stabilized cycle is a relevant parameter for estimating the number of cycles to failure of such materials. Following these observations, we provide an application of the cyclic model, previously developed by the authors within the framework of generalized standard materials with internal constraints [16], in order to evaluate such parameter. Numerical simulations are presented along with a validation against experimental data in case of cyclic superelasticity.
On a nonlinear inverse problem in viscoelasticity
Authors: Bui H. D. , Chaillat S.
Published: December 2014

We consider an inverse problem for determining an inhomogeneity in a viscoelastic body of the Zener type, using Cauchy boundary data, under cyclic loads at low frequency. We show that the inverse problem reduces to the one for the Helmholtz equation and to the same nonlinear Calderon equation given for the harmonic case. A method of solution is proposed which consists in two steps: solution of a source inverse problem, then solution of a linear Volterra integral equation.
Smoothed finite element method for two-dimensional elasto-plasticity
Authors: Bordascorres Stéphane Pierre Alain , Nguyen-Dang Hung , Phan-Phuong Quyen , Nguyen-Xuan Hung , Natarajan Sundararajan , Duflot Marc
Published: December 2014

This communication shows how the smoothed finite element method (SFEM) very recently proposed by G. R. Liu [14] can be extended to elasto-plasticity. The SFEM results are in excellent agreement with the finite element (FEM) and analytical results. For the examples treated, the method is quite insensitive to mesh distortion and volumetric locking. Moreover, the SFEM yields more compliant load-displacement curves compared to the standard, displacement based FE method, as expected from the theoretical developments recently published in [4], [3] and [6].
Regional Development And Vision Of Future Of Boyacá’s Industrial Corridor*
Authors: Acosta-Prado Julio César , Mojica Sastoque Francisco José , Espinosa Cuervo José Oswaldo
Published: December 2014

This article is the result of a research project: A Foresight Analisys of a Region for Economic Planning -- Boyacá’sIndustrial Corridor Towards 2019.The theoretical foundations of the project were based on Territorial Foresight. Themethodology was designed considering the following aspects: (1) Current situation of the region within a Global,National and Regional context; (2) Identification of world trends and technology affecting the region and its productivesectors; (3) Identification of key factors that characterize the region; (4) Prioritization of strategic variables andunderstanding of the territorial development system. Based on these aspects, four alternate scenarios of possiblefutures (futuribles) which could take place in the region were constructed. Likewise the most likely scenario “betscenario” was proposed which was called “Competitive Region - World Integrated”. It comes with seven strategiesfor its concretion from the present time. The study becomes even more important since the region has receivedfunds coming from the National Government as well as from foreign investment interested in strategic projects.
La Comercialización Del Producto “Turismo Deportivo”
Authors: Blázquez Manzano Alberto
Published: December 2014

Este trabajo analiza la literatura referida al turismo deportivo y a las características del cliente de este tipode servicios. Partiendo de fuentes secundarias y una vez analizado las características de esta demanda, sepropone el desarrollo de estrategias de comercialización de este producto, así como las tendencias futurasprevisibles para el sector turístico.
Aplicación Del Modelo Scor Para El Servicio De Limpieza De Contenedores Tanque (Iso Tanks)
Authors: Fontalvo-Herrera Tomás J. , Cardona-Rojas Daimer , Morelos Gómez José
Published: December 2014

En este artículo de investigación se propone una estructura soportada en el modelo SCOR para los procesosejecutados por un operador logístico en las transacciones internacionales en Cartagena- Colombia. Se pretendeanalizar la cadena de suministro del servicio de limpieza y mantenimiento de contenedores de circulación internacionaltipo ISO tanque como actividad fundamental en el comercio internacional de líquidos y gases a granelse utiliza el modelo de referencia para la cadena de suministro (Modelo SCOR), con el fin de poder diseñar laestructura de la gestión logística de dicho servicio. Asimismo, se estructuran y proponen los diferentes nivelesy los componentes asociados con diagramas, mapas de procesos y mapas geográficos, identificando los atributose indicadores más importantes que debe tener la prestación de este servicio. Finalmente, se establecela estructura logística que posibilita el posicionamiento estratégico para las compañías que intervienen para la limpieza de los contenedores y se destaca la efectividad del modelo utilizado para el análisis y mejoramientode los procesos logísticos de las organizaciones a nivel internacional.
A protocol for the use of computational fluid dynamics as a supportive tool for wastewater treatment plant modelling
Authors: Laurent J. , Samstag R. W. , Ducoste J. M. , Griborio A. , Nopens I. , Batstone D. J. , Wicks J. D. , Saunders S. , Potier O.
Published: December 2014

To date, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models have been primarily used for evaluation of hydraulic problems at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). A potentially more powerful use, however, is to simulate integrated physical, chemical and/or biological processes involved in WWTP unit processes on a spatial scale and to use the gathered knowledge to accelerate improvement in plant models for everyday use, that is, design and optimized operation. Evolving improvements in computer speed and memory and improved software for implementing CFD, as well as for integrated processes, has allowed for broader usage of this tool for understanding, troubleshooting, and optimal design of WWTP unit processes. This paper proposes a protocol for an alternative use of CFD in process modelling, as a way to gain insight into complex systems leading to improved modelling approaches used in combination with the IWA activated sludge models and other kinetic models.
Impact of ozone pre-treatment on the performance of upflow anaerobic sludge blanket treating pre-treated grain distillery wastewater
Authors: Robertson L. , Britz T. J. , Sigge G. O.
Published: December 2014

Two 2 L laboratory-scale upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactors were operated for 277 days. The substrate of the control reactor (Rc) contained grain distillery wastewater (GDWW) that had undergone coagulant pre-treatment, and the substrate of the second UASB reactor consisted of GDWW that had undergone coagulant pre-treatment and ozone pre-treatment (Ro). Both reactors treated pre-treated GDWW successfully at ca. 9 kgCOD m−3 d−1. Chemical oxygen demand (COD) reductions of ca. 96% for Rc and 93% for Ro were achieved. Fats, oils and grease (FOG) reductions (%) showed variations throughout the study, and reductions of ca. 88 and 92% were achieved for Rc and Ro, respectively. Rc produced more biogas, and the methane percentage was similar in both reactors. UASB granule washout in Rc suggested possible toxicity of unsaturated fatty acids present in non-ozonated substrate. The feasibility of FOG removal was demonstrated as both reactors successfully treated pre-treated GDWW. Better results were obtained for Ro effluent during post-ozonation. The ozone pre-treatment possibly led to easier degradable wastewater, and better results could potentially be obtained when other post-treatment steps are applied. Ozone pre-treatment did not, however, show an added benefit in the reactor performance results.
The challenges of automobile-dependent urban transport strategy
Authors: Jovanovic Miomir
Published: December 2014

The fundamental aims of sustainable urban development and the pro-automobile
oriented economic development are on a collision course. It is obvious that
automobile-dependent urban development is under heavy/powerful influence of
the automobile lobby (automobile and oil industries, along with
construction). In this domain famous land-use-transportation studies (or
?grand transportation studies?) are, unfortunately, still prevailing - a
vicious circle of self-fulfilling prophecy of congestion, road building,
sprawl, congestion and more road building. Until recently, it was commonly
thought that investment in public transport was not economically sustainable
and that focusing on the development of the automobile industry and financing
the construction of roadways stimulated economic growth. In this paper we
clearly show that automobile industry is now overcapitalized, less profitable
than many other industries (and may become even less profitable in the
future), that transport market is characterized with huge distortions (more
than a third of motor-vehicle use can be explained by underpriced driving),
while new road investment does not have a major impact on economic growth
(especially in a region with an already well-developed infrastructure), and
that pro-automobile transport strategy inexorably incurs harmful global,
regional and local ecological consequences.
Free convection limit to heat transfer from heatsinks with square fins on a horizontal base: Comparison with cylindrical fins
Authors: Haldar S.C. , Manna S.
Published: December 2014

Free convection about a single vertically orientated square fin on a
horizontal plate has been investigated numerically. Fluid is drawn towards
the fin from the far field which cools the fin and finally leaves through the
top. For short fins, convection rather than the conduction is the controlling
mechanism and this renders the fin thermal conductivity a parameter of little
importance for such fins. Heat flux at the base of the fin decreases with
increasing width of the fin confirming the benefits of large number of
slender fins. A correlation has been developed to evaluate the heat flux at
fin base which may be used to predict the upper bound of free convection heat
transfer from any heat sink with square fins on a horizontal base. Rate of
heat transfer so calculated has been compared with experimental data
published recently. The study also reveals the advantage of the cylindrical
fins over square fins.
Artificial bee colony algorithm in the solution of selected inverse problem of the binary alloy solidification
Authors: Hetmaniok Edyta
Published: December 2014

The paper presents a procedure for reconstructing, on the basis of known
measurements of temperature, the heat transfer coefficient and the
distribution of temperature in given region of solidifying binary alloy in
the casting mould. Solution of the considered inverse problem is found by
applying the finite element method for solving the corresponding direct
problem and the Artificial Bee Colony algorithm for minimizing the functional
representing the error of approximate solution.
An experimental investigation of performance of a double pass solar air heater with thermal storage medium
Authors: Ali Hafiz , Bhatti Arslan , Ali Muzaffar
Published: December 2014

The performance of a double pass solar air heater was experimentally
investigated using four different configurations. First configuration
contained only absorber plate whereas copper tubes filled with thermal
storage medium (paraffin wax) were added on the absorber plate in the second
configuration. Aluminum and steel rods as thermal enhancer were inserted in
the middle of paraffin wax of each tube for configurations three and four
respectively. Second configuration provided useful heat for about 1.5 hours
after the sunset compared to first configuration. Configurations three and
four provided useful heat for about 2 hours after the sunset. The maximum
efficiency of about 96% was achieved using configuration three (i.e. using
Aluminum rods in the middle of copper tubes filled with paraffin wax).
Heart rate variability and increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Pencic-Popovic Biljana , Celic Vera , Cosic Zoran , Pavlovic-Kleut Milena , Caparevic Zorica , Kostic Nada , Milovanovic Branislav , Sljivic Aleksandra , Stojcevski Biljana
Published: December 2014

Background/Aim. To our knowledge there are no data about the relationship
between elevated risk for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) and
altered cardiac autonomic function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the
association between heart rate variability (HRV) and slightly increased risk
for DM2. Methods. We evaluated 69 subjects (50.0 ? 14.4 years; 30 male)
without DM2, coronary artery disease and arrhythmias. The subjects were
divided into two groups according to the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score
(FINDRISC): group I (n = 39) included subjects with 12 > FINDRISC ? 7; group
II (n = 30) subjects with FINDRISC < 7. HRV was derived from 24-h
electrocardiogram. We used time domain variables and frequency domain
analysis performed over the entire 24-h period, during the day (06-22 h) and
overnight (22-06 h). Results. Standard deviation of the average normal RR
intervals was significantly lower in the group with increased risk for DM2
compared to the group II (127.1 ? 26.6 ms vs 149.6 ? 57.6 ms; p = 0.035).
Other time domain measures were similar in both groups. The group I
demonstrated significantly reduced frequency domain measures, total power -
TP (7.2 ? 0.3 ln/ms2 vs 7.3 ? 0.3 ln/ms2; p = 0.029), and low frequency - LF
(5.9 ? 0.4 ln/ms2 vs 6.3 ? 0.6 ln/ms2; p = 0.006), over entire 24 h, as well
as TP (7.1 ? 0.3 ln/ms2 vs 7.3 ? 0.3 ln/ms2; p = 0.004), very low frequency
(6.2 ? 0.2 ln/ms2 vs 6.3 ? 0.2 ln/ms2; p = 0.030), LF (5.9 ? 0.4 ln/ms2 vs
6.2 ? 0.3 ln/ms2; p = 0.000) and high frequency (5.7 ? 0.4 ln/ms2 vs 5.9 ?
0.4 ln/ms2; p = 0.011) during the daytime compared to the group II. Nocturnal
frequency domain analysis was similar between the groups. The low diurnal
frequency was independently related to elevated risk for diabetes mellitus
(beta = -0,331; p = 0.006). Conclusion. The obtained results suggest that
even slightly elevated risk for developing diabetes mellitus may be related
to impaired HRV.
Fractures of the humerus during arm wrestling
Authors: Bumbasirevic Marko , Lesic Aleksandar , Andjelkovic Sladjana , Palibrk Tomislav , Milutinovic Suzana
Published: December 2014

Background/Aim. Humeral shaft fractures may occur as a result of arm
wrestling. The aim of this study was to present our treatment of humerus
fracture sustained during arm wrestling. Methods. A total of six patients,
aged 22 to 48, were treated at our department form January 2008 to January
2010 with open reduction and internal fixation and with hanging arm casts. A
review of all the relevant literature on the subject was also presented.
Results. In all the cases, the fractures healed and function returned to
normal. No patient had any neural or vascular compromise. Conclusion. Closed
and operative treatments were equally successful in all reported cases.
Tree Rings and the Chronology of Ancient Egypt
Authors: Creasman Pearce Paul
Published: December 2014

A fundamental aspect of ancient Egyptian history remains unresolved: chronology. Egyptologists (and researchers in related fields that synchronize their studies with Egypt) currently rely on a variety of insufficiently precise methodologies (king lists, radiocarbon dating, etc.) from which to derive seemingly “absolute” dates. The need for genuine precision has been recognized for a century, as has the potential solution: dendrochronology. This manuscript presents a case for further progress toward the construction of a tree-ring chronology for ancient Egypt.
Vaginal impedometry for detection of optimal breeding time in bitches
Authors: Bergeron Lindsay H. , Nykamp Stephanie G. , Brisson Brigitte A. , Madan Pavneesh , Sears William , Gartley Cathy J.
Published: December 2014

Objective—To compare the efficacy of canine vaginal impedometry in identifying the preovulatory luteinizing hormone (LH) peak to that of currently used methods (serum progesterone concentration measurement, vaginal cytologic evaluation, and vaginoscopy).

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—12 sexually intact female dogs.

Procedures—12 mature postpubertal Beagle (n = 3), Beagle-cross (2), and hound-cross (7) bitches ranging from 7.5 to 27.5 kg (16.5 to 60.6 lb) were enrolled in the study. After the onset of spontaneous proestrus, determined on the basis of appearance of serosanguineous vaginal discharge, serum progesterone assays, vaginoscopy, vaginal cytologic evaluation, and vaginal impedometry were performed daily until approximately 4 days after peak LH concentration (day 0) as measured by radioimmunoassay. Vaginal impedometry was compared against serum progesterone concentration measurement, vaginal cytologic evaluation, and vaginoscopy as a method for accurately identifying the LH peak and therefore the optimal breeding time. Ten of 12 bitches were bred with subsequent assessment of embryos.

Results—Vaginal impedometry accurately predicted the preovulatory LH peak in 5 of 11 bitches. One bitch was removed from the study because data were not collected. Of the remaining 11 bitches, 6 had their LH peak on the day serum progesterone concentration first exceeded 2 ng/mL. Crenulation scores reached 1 (mean, 1.3; 95% confidence interval, 0.8 to 1.7) on day 0 as expected; however, these scores were not significantly different from those on days −1 or 1. Vaginal epithelial cell populations did not change noticeably on day 0. Nine of the 10 bitches that were bred produced viable embryos.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that daily use of vaginal impedometry in bitches was unreliable as a method for monitoring periovulatory events. All techniques evaluated (ie vaginal impedometry, serum progesterone concentration assays, vaginoscopy and vaginal cytologic evaluation) frequently produced inaccurate results when used individually. Multiple methods should be used to identify optimal breeding time in dogs.
A Situated Analysis of Football Goalkeepers' Experiences in Critical Game Situations
Authors: Villemain A. , Hauw D.
Published: December 2014

This study described elite football (soccer) goalkeepers' activity and performance in critical game situations. The 11 best French players ( M age = 15.5 yr., SD = 0.5) participated in the study. Interviews focused on goalkeepers' experiences were conducted to identify meaningful events involved in failed actions. Players formulated 23 critical game situations. Verbatim encoding using a thematic analysis indicated that four main categories (coming off the line, goal-line clearance, one-on-one, and diving) represented the most critical situations encountered during matches. The relations among experience and action, inner states, background, attention contents, and intentions were elucidated. The discussion is grounded on the properties of such critical game situations and their implications for improving goalkeepers' performance.
Stressors and Turning Points in High School and Dropout
Authors: Dupéré Véronique , Leventhal Tama , Dion Eric , Crosnoe Robert , Archambault Isabelle , Janosz Michel
Published: December 2014

High school dropout is commonly seen as the result of a long-term process of failure and disengagement. As useful as it is, this view has obscured the heterogeneity of pathways leading to dropout. Research suggests, for instance, that some students leave school not as a result of protracted difficulties but in response to situations that emerge late in their schooling careers, such as health problems or severe peer victimization. Conversely, others with a history of early difficulties persevere when their circumstances improve during high school. Thus, an adequate understanding of why and when students drop out requires a consideration of both long-term vulnerabilities and proximal disruptive events and contingencies. The goal of this review is to integrate long-term and immediate determinants of dropout by proposing a stress process, life course model of dropout. This model is also helpful for understanding how the determinants of dropout vary across socioeconomic conditions and geographical and historical contexts.
Collective Rights, Liberal Discourse, and Public Order: The Clash over Catholic Processions in Mid-Victorian Toronto
Authors: Radforth Ian
Published: December 2014

Abstract:

Two occasions when Protestants attacked Roman Catholic religious processions in Victorian Toronto – the 1864 Corpus Christi celebrations and the Jubilee Riots of 1875 – provide opportunities for deepening understandings of liberal discourse in relationship to public order in Canada. The intensity of the religious disputes grew from differences in religious belief and ethnicity and from established patterns of public behaviour. Catholic processionists asserted their presence as a religious minority with a history of collective rights in Canada and as believers doing what God and the Church willed. Some Protestants, many of them Orangemen, tried to prevent open displays of Catholicism in a city that was three-quarters Protestant. Meantime, other Torontonians called for tolerance of religious difference, a position that drew the ire of commentators in the evangelical religious press. The violence and the heated debates about religious rights reveal strong challenges to the making of the liberal order.
Network of Spaces and Interaction-Related Behaviors in Adult Intensive Care Units
Authors: Rashid Mahbub , Boyle Diane , Crosser Michael
Published: December 2014

Using three spatial network measures of “space syntax”, this correlational study describes four interaction-related behaviors among three groups of users in relation to visibility and accessibility of spaces in four adult intensive care units (ICUs) of different size, geometry, and specialty. Systematic field observations of interaction-related behaviors show significant differences in spatial distribution of interaction-related behaviors in the ICUs. Despite differences in unit characteristics and interaction-related behaviors, the study finds that when nurses and physicians “interact while sitting” they prefer spaces that help maintain a high level of environmental awareness; that when nurses “walk” and “interact while walking” they avoid spaces with better global access and visibility; and that everyone in ICUs “walk” more in spaces with higher control over neighboring spaces. It is argued that such consistent behavioral patterns occur due to the structural similarities of spatial networks over and above the more general functional similarities of ICUs.
Oral Mucosal Disorders in Pregnant versus Non-Pregnant Women
Authors: Rezazadeh Fahimeh , Falsafi Neda , Sarraf Zahra , Shahbazi Mohammad
Published: December 2014

The effects of pregnancy on the Oral Mucosa Disorder (OMD) have been sporadically documented in some developed countries. Less known is the status of OMD during pregnancy in less developed/developing countries. Iran is no exception. This study assesses the prevalence of OMD in 200 pregnant women and compares the findings with the findings from a 200 non-pregnant woman of similar age distribution in Iran. The participants had been referred to a clinic to receive reproductive age-related services. Participants suffering from systemic chronic diseases, those on medications/drugs, smokers, needing biopsies, and those with urgent Oral Mucosal Lesion (OML) treatments were excluded from the study. Oral mucosal of all 400 participants were examined. The participants’ age ranges were from 17 to 47; with the average age of 33.14 for one group; and 30.23 for the other group. Both groups had the same level of formal education. Out of 400 examined women; 62 had lesions, including 47 pregnant (23.5%); and 15 non-pregnant (7.5%) women. This result shows that the OMD rate of occurrence was significantly higher among the pregnant women. Higher OML prevalence in pregnant women, as compared to the non-pregnant women, indicates the importance of timely oral examination of pregnant women and subsequent treatment plans for them.
Ab intio Investigation of the Thermochemistry and Kinetics of the SO2 + O3− → SO3− + O2 Reaction in Aircraft Engines and the Environment
Authors: Guo Xuechao , Nadykto Alexey , Xu Yisheng , Zhang Qingzhu , Hu Jingtian
Published: December 2014

In the present work, the mechanisms, thermochemistry and kinetics of the reaction of SO2 with O3− have been studied using the CCSD(T)/6-31G(d) + CF method. It has been shown that there exist two possible pathways A and B of the SO2 + O3− → SO3− + O2 reaction. The two pathways’ A and B barrier heights are 0.61 kcal mol−1 and 3.40 kcal mol−1, respectively, while the energy of the SO2 + O3− → SO3− + O2 reaction is −25.25 kcal mol−1. The canonical variational transition state theory with small-curvature tunneling (CVT/SCT) has been applied to study the reaction kinetics. The CVT/SCT study shows that the rate constants K for pathways A and B, KA = 1.11 × 10−12exp(−2526.13/T) and KB = 2.7 × 10−14exp(−1029.25/T), respectively, grow as the temperature increases and are much larger than those of the SO2 + O3 → SO3 + O2 reaction over the entire temperature range of 200–1500 K. This indicates that ionization of O3 and high temperatures are favorable for the SO2 oxidation via the reaction with ozone. The new data obtained in the present study can be utilized directly for the evaluation of experiments and model predictions concerning SO2 oxidation and kinetic modeling of gas-phase chemistry of pollutants/nucleation precursors formed in aircraft engines and the Earth’s atmosphere.
Landscape Analysis of Geographical Names in Hubei Province, China
Authors: Chen Xixi , Hu Tao , Ren Fu , Chen Deng , Li Lan , Gao Nan
Published: December 2014

Hubei Province is the hub of communications in central China, which directly determines its strategic position in the country’s development. Additionally, Hubei Province is well-known for its diverse landforms, including mountains, hills, mounds and plains. This area is called “The Province of Thousand Lakes” due to the abundance of water resources. Geographical names are exclusive names given to physical or anthropogenic geographic entities at specific spatial locations and are important signs by which humans understand natural and human activities. In this study, geographic information systems (GIS) technology is adopted to establish a geodatabase of geographical names with particular characteristics in Hubei Province and extract certain geomorphologic and environmental factors. We carry out landscape analysis of mountain-related geographical names and water-related geographical names respectively. In the end, we calculate the information entropy of geographical names of each county to describe the diversity and inhomogeneity of place names in Hubei province. Our study demonstrates that geographical names represent responses to the cultural landscape and physical environment. The geographical names are more interesting in specific landscapes, such as mountains and rivers.
Can Courts Make Federalism Work? A Game Theory Approach to Court-Induced Compliance and Defection in Federal Systems
Authors: Sala Gemma
Published: December 2014

Few studies on federalism analyze the role of courts as safeguards of the federal arrangement, and those that do tend to be too optimistic about what courts can do. This article analyzes the effect of judicial review on the interaction between the central and a regional government in a federation in order to understand the conditions under which courts may or may not enforce compliance with federalism. It argues that politicians of either level of government anticipate the likelihood of a judicial challenge and an eventual veto, and it finds distinct equilibria in the interaction between central and regional governments (imposition, auto-limitation, negotiation and litigation). Only under auto-limitation do courts effectively prevent transgressions to the federal arrangement. In all other scenarios, defection may take place despite the presence of courts. These findings show that as the court’s jurisprudence becomes more solid and defined, the chances for governments to successfully exceed their powers increase. Not only do transgressions take place despite the presence of the court, but because of it.
Influence of Different Rotor Teeth Shapes on the Performance of Flux Switching Permanent Magnet Machines Used for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Zhao Jing , Yan Yashuang , Li Bin , Liu Xiangdong , Chen Zhen
Published: December 2014

This paper investigated a 12-slot/11-pole flux switching permanent magnet (FSPM) machine used for electric vehicles (EVs). Five novel rotor teeth shapes are proposed and researched to reduce the cogging torque and torque ripple of the FSPM machine. These rotor teeth shapes are notched teeth, stepped teeth, eccentric teeth, combination of notched and stepped teeth, and combination of notched and eccentric teeth. They are applied on the rotor and optimized, respectively. The influences of different rotor teeth shapes on cogging torque, torque ripple and electromagnetic torque are analyzed by the 2-D finite-element method (FEM). Then, the performance of FSPMs with different rotor teeth shapes are compared and evaluated comprehensively from the points of view of cogging torque, torque ripple, electromagnetic torque, flux linkage, back electromotive force (EMF), and so on. The results show that the presented rotor teeth shapes, especially the combination of stepped and notched teeth, can greatly reduce the cogging torque and torque ripple with only slight changes in the average electromagnetic torque.
Effects of Direct Application of Fertilizers and Hydrogel on the Establishment of Poplar Cuttings
Authors: Böhlenius Henrik , Övergaard Rolf
Published: December 2014

The aim of poplar plantations is to achieve high biomass production over a short rotation period. This requires low mortality and fast development of the transplants. The experiment described in this paper examines methods aimed at enhancing survival and development of Populus trichocarpa plants by application of fertilizers, a hydrogel or a combination of both to dormant cuttings just before planting. The experiment was carried out at two agricultural sites with different soil characteristics, a loamy sand and a silty loam. It was demonstrated that none of the treatments influenced survival or early growth at the silty loam soil site, and plant development was delayed by the solid fertilizer. At the site with loamy sand, the solid fertilizer negatively affected both survival and early growth. Hydrogel and the combination of hydrogel and the solid fertilizer also hampered early growth. Overall, treatments of poplar cuttings with hydrogel or fertilizers alone, or in combination, may not be a method to reduce poplar cutting mortality or to enhance early plant development on agricultural land. However, our results demonstrate that establishing poplar with cuttings as transplants can be used on both loamy sand and silty loam soils.