bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Fitness Testing Results Following Long-Duration ISS Missions
Authors: Laughlin Mitzi S. , Guilliams Mark E. , Nieschwitz Bruce A. , Hoellen David
Published: November 2015

INTRODUCTION: Long-duration spaceflight missions lead to the loss of muscle strength and endurance. Significant reduction in muscle function can be hazardous when returning from spaceflight. To document these losses, NASA developed medical requirements that include measures of
functional strength and endurance. Results from this Functional Fitness Test (FFT) battery are also used to evaluate the effectiveness of in-flight exercise countermeasures. The purpose of this paper is to document results from the FFT and correlate this information with performance of in-flight
exercise on board the International Space Station.METHODS: The FFT evaluates muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and agility and includes the following eight measures: sit and reach, cone agility, push-ups, pull-ups, sliding crunches, bench press, leg press, and hand grip
dynamometry. Pre- to postflight functional fitness measurements were analyzed using dependent t-tests and correlation analyses were used to evaluate the relationship between functional fitness measurements and in-flight exercise workouts.RESULTS: Significant differences were
noted postspaceflight with the sit and reach, cone agility, leg press, and hand grip measurements while other test scores were not significantly altered. The relationships between functional fitness and in-flight exercise measurements showed minimal to moderate correlations for most in-flight
exercise training variables. DISCUSSION: The change in FFT results can be partially explained by in-flight exercise performance. Although there are losses documented in the FFT results, it is important to realize that the crewmembers are successfully performing activities of daily
living and are considered functional for normal activities upon return to Earth.Laughlin MS, Guilliams ME, Nieschwitz BA, Hoellen D. Functional fitness testing results following long-duration ISS missions. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86 (12, Suppl.):A87–A91.
Non-Conventional Tools to Preserve and Prolong the Quality of Minimally-Processed Fruits and Vegetables
Authors: Corbo Maria , Campaniello Daniela , Speranza Barbara , Bevilacqua Antonio , Sinigaglia Milena
Published: November 2015

The main topic of this paper is a focus on some non-conventional tools to preserve the microbiological and physico-chemical quality of fresh-cut fruits and vegetables. The quality of fresh-cut foods is the result of a complex equilibrium involving surface microbiota, storage temperature, gas in the headspace and the use of antimicrobials. This paper proposes a short overview of some non-conventional approaches able to preserve the quality of this kind of product, with a special focus on some new ways, as follows: (1) use of edible or antimicrobial-containing coatings (e.g., chitosan-based coatings) on fruits or vegetables; (2) alternative modified atmospheres (e.g., high O2-modified atmosphere packaging (MAP)) or the use of essential oils in the headspace; (3) conditioning solutions with antimicrobials or natural compounds for fruit salad; and (4) biopreservation and use of a probiotic coating.
Catastrophic Economic Consequences of Healthcare Payments: Effects on Poverty Estimates in Egypt, Jordan, and Palestine
Authors: Rashad Ahmed , Sharaf Mesbah
Published: November 2015

Healthcare payments could drive households with no health insurance coverage into financial catastrophe, which might lead them to cut spending on necessities, sell assets, or use credit. In extreme cases, healthcare payments could have devastating consequences on the household economic status that would push them into extreme poverty. Using nationally representative surveys from three Arab countries, namely, Egypt, Jordan, and Palestine, this paper examines the incidence, intensity and distribution of catastrophic health payments, and assesses the poverty impact of out-of-pocket health payments (OOP). The OOP for healthcare were considered catastrophic if it exceeded 10% of a household’s total expenditure or 40% of non-food expenditure. The poverty impact was evaluated using poverty head counts and poverty gaps before and after OOP. Results show that OOP exacerbate households’ living severely in Egypt, pushing more than one-fifth of the population into a financial catastrophe and 3% into extreme poverty in 2011. However, in Jordan and Palestine, the disruptive impact of OOP remains modest over time. In the three countries, the catastrophic health payment is the problem of the better off households. Poverty alleviation policies should help reduce the reliance on OOP to finance healthcare. Moving toward universal health coverage could also be a promising option to protect households from the catastrophic economic consequences of health care payments.
Governor Design for a Hydropower Plant with an Upstream Surge Tank by GA-Based Fuzzy Reduced-Order Sliding Mode
Authors: Xu Chang , Qian Dianwei
Published: November 2015

This paper investigates governor design by reduced-order sliding mode for a hydropower plant with an upstream surge tank. The governing system is made up of a tunnel, a surge tank, a penstock, a wicket gate and servomechanism, a governor, a hydro-turbine and a grid. Concerning the components of the governing system, their mathematic models are established. Then, these models are interconnected to simulate the governing system. From the viewpoint of state space in modern control theory, the governing system is partially observed, which challenges the governor design. By introducing an additional state variable, the control method of reduced-order sliding mode is proposed, where the governor design is based on a reduced-order governing system. Since the governor is applied to the original governing system, the system stability is analyzed by means of the small gain theorem. An genetic algorithm is employed to search a group of parameters of the predefined sliding surface, and a fuzzy inference system is utilized to decrease the chattering problem. Some numerical simulations are illustrated to verify the feasibility and robustness of the control method.
Quality of Work: Validation of a New Instrument in Three Languages
Authors: Steffgen Georges , Kohl Diane , Reese Gerhard , Happ Christian , Sischka Philipp
Published: November 2015

Introduction and objective: A new instrument to measure quality of work was developed in three languages (German, French and Luxembourgish) and validated in a study of employees working in Luxembourg. Methods and results: A representative sample (n = 1529) was taken and exploratory factor analysis revealed a six-factor solution for the 21-item instrument (satisfaction and respect, mobbing, mental strain at work, cooperation, communication and feedback, and appraisal). Reliability analysis showed satisfying reliability for all six factors and the total questionnaire. In order to examine the construct validity of the new instrument, regression analyses were conducted to test whether the instrument predicted work characteristics’ influence on three components of well-being—burnout, psychological stress and maladaptive coping behaviors. Conclusion: The present validation offers a trilingual inventory for measuring quality of work that may be used, for example, as an assessment tool or for testing the effectiveness of interventions.
Molecular Biology of the Cell, Sixth Edition; ISBN: 9780815344643; and Molecular Biology of the Cell, Sixth Edition, The Problems Book; ISBN 9780815344537
Authors: Bustin Stephen
Published: November 2015

The latest edition maintains the excellence and appeal of the previous editions. Its clear text and outstanding illustrations, together with the complementary problems book make this an essential companion for students and lecturers alike.
Linalool Induces Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in Leukemia Cells and Cervical Cancer Cells through CDKIs
Authors: Chang Mei-Yin , Shieh Den-En , Chen Chung-Chi , Yeh Ching-Sheng , Dong Huei-Ping
Published: November 2015

Plantaginaceae, a popular traditional Chinese medicine, has long been used for treating various diseases from common cold to cancer. Linalool is one of the biologically active compounds that can be isolated from Plantaginaceae. Most of the commonly used cytotoxic anticancer drugs have been shown to induce apoptosis in susceptible tumor cells. However, the signaling pathway for apoptosis remains undefined. In this study, the cytotoxic effect of linalool on human cancer cell lines was investigated. Water-soluble tetrazolium salts (WST-1) based colorimetric cellular cytotoxicity assay, was used to test the cytotoxic ability of linalool against U937 and HeLa cells, and flow cytometry (FCM) and genechip analysis were used to investigate the possible mechanism of apoptosis. These results demonstrated that linalool exhibited a good cytotoxic effect on U937 and HeLa cells, with the IC50 value of 2.59 and 11.02 μM, respectively, compared with 5-FU with values of 4.86 and 12.31 μM, respectively. After treating U937 cells with linalool for 6 h, we found an increased sub-G1 peak and a dose-dependent phenomenon, whereby these cells were arrested at the G0/G1 phase. Furthermore, by using genechip analysis, we observed that linalool can promote p53, p21, p27, p16, and p18 gene expression. Therefore, this study verified that linalool can arrest the cell cycle of U937 cells at the G0/G1 phase and can arrest the cell cycle of HeLa cells at the G2/M phase. Its mechanism facilitates the expression of the cyclin-dependent kinases inhibitors (CDKIs) p53, p21, p27, p16, and p18, as well as the non-expression of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) activity.
An Assessment of Cell Culture Plate Surface Chemistry for in Vitro Studies of Tissue Engineering Scaffolds
Authors: Röder Alexander , García-Gareta Elena , Theodoropoulos Christina , Ristovski Nikola , Blackwood Keith , Woodruff Maria
Published: November 2015

The use of biopolymers as a three dimensional (3D) support structure for cell growth is a leading tissue engineering approach in regenerative medicine. Achieving consistent cell seeding and uniform cell distribution throughout 3D scaffold culture in vitro is an ongoing challenge. Traditionally, 3D scaffolds are cultured within tissue culture plates to enable reproducible cell seeding and ease of culture media change. In this study, we compared two different well-plates with different surface properties to assess whether seeding efficiencies and cell growth on 3D scaffolds were affected. Cell attachment and growth of murine calvarial osteoblast (MC3T3-E1) cells within a melt-electrospun poly-ε-caprolactone scaffold were assessed when cultured in either “low-adhesive” non-treated or corona discharged-treated well-plates. Increased cell adhesion was observed on the scaffold placed in the surface treated culture plates compared to the scaffold in the non-treated plates 24 h after seeding, although it was not significant. However, higher cell metabolic activity was observed on the bases of all well-plates than on the scaffold, except for day 21, well metabolic activity was higher in the scaffold contained in non-treated plate than the base. These results indicate that there is no advantage in using non-treated plates to improve initial cell seeding in 3D polymeric tissue engineering scaffolds, however non-treated plates may provide an improved metabolic environment for long-term studies.
Effect of Cu Content on Atomic Positions of Ti50Ni50−xCux Shape Memory Alloys Based on Density Functional Theory Calculations
Authors: Gou Liangliang , Liu Yong , Ng Teng
Published: November 2015

The study of crystal structures in shape memory alloys is of fundamental importance for understanding the shape memory effect. In order to investigate the mechanism of how Cu content affects martensite crystal structures of TiNiCu alloys, the present research examines the atomic displacement of Ti50Ni50−xCux (x = 0, 5, 12.5, 15, 18.75, 20, 25) shape memory alloys using density functional theory (DFT). By the introduction of Cu atoms into TiNi martensite crystal to replace Ni, the displacements of Ti and Ni/Cu atoms along the x-axis are obvious, but they are minimal along the y- and z-axes. It is found that along the x-axis, the two Ti atoms in the unit cell move in opposite directions, and the same occurred with the two Ni/Cu atoms. With increasing Cu content, the distance between the two Ni/Cu atoms increases while the Ti atoms draw closer along the x-axis, leading to a rotation of the (100) plane, which is responsible for the decrease in the monoclinic angle. It is also found that the displacements of both Ti atoms and Ni/Cu atoms along the x-axis are progressive, which results in a gradual change of monoclinic angle and a transition to B19 martensite crystal structure.
Towards the Synthesis of Graphene Azide from Graphene Oxide
Authors: Halbig Christian , Rietsch Philipp , Eigler Siegfried
Published: November 2015

In the last decades, organic azides haven proven to be very useful precursors in organic chemistry, for example in 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions (click-chemistry). Likewise, azides can be introduced into graphene oxide with an almost intact carbon framework, namely oxo-functionalized graphene (oxo-G1), which is a highly oxidized graphene derivative and a powerful precursor for graphene that is suitable for electronic devices. The synthesis of a graphene derivative with exclusively azide groups (graphene azide) is however still a challenge. In comparison also hydrogenated graphene, called graphene or halogenated graphene remain challenging to synthesize. A route to graphene azide would be the desoxygenation of azide functionalized oxo-G1. Here we show how treatment of azide functionalized oxo-G1 with HCl enlarges the π-system and removes strongly adsorbed water and some oxo-functional groups. This development reflects one step towards graphene azide.
Generation and Characterization of Six Recombinant Botulinum Neurotoxins as Reference Material to Serve in an International Proficiency Test
Authors: Weisemann Jasmin , Krez Nadja , Fiebig Uwe , Worbs Sylvia , Skiba Martin , Endermann Tanja , Dorner Martin , Bergström Tomas , Muñoz Amalia , Zegers Ingrid , Müller Christian , Jenkinson Stephen , Avondet Marc-Andre , Delbrassinne Laurence , Denayer Sarah , Zeleny Reinhard , Schimmel Heinz , Åstot Crister , Dorner Brigitte , Rummel Andreas
Published: November 2015

The detection and identification of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNT) is complex due to the existence of seven serotypes, derived mosaic toxins and more than 40 subtypes. Expert laboratories currently use different technical approaches to detect, identify and quantify BoNT, but due to the lack of (certified) reference materials, analytical results can hardly be compared. In this study, the six BoNT/A1–F1 prototypes were successfully produced by recombinant techniques, facilitating handling, as well as improving purity, yield, reproducibility and biosafety. All six BoNTs were quantitatively nicked into active di-chain toxins linked by a disulfide bridge. The materials were thoroughly characterized with respect to purity, identity, protein concentration, catalytic and biological activities. For BoNT/A1, B1 and E1, serotypes pathogenic to humans, the catalytic activity and the precise protein concentration were determined by Endopep-mass spectrometry and validated amino acid analysis, respectively. In addition, BoNT/A1, B1, E1 and F1 were successfully detected by immunological assays, unambiguously identified by mass spectrometric-based methods, and their specific activities were assigned by the mouse LD50 bioassay. The potencies of all six BoNT/A1–F1 were quantified by the ex vivo mouse phrenic nerve hemidiaphragm assay, allowing a direct comparison. In conclusion, highly pure recombinant BoNT reference materials were produced, thoroughly characterized and employed as spiking material in a worldwide BoNT proficiency test organized by the EQuATox consortium.
Application of the Entropy Method to Select Calibration Sites for Hydrological Modeling
Authors: Kim Soojun , Kim Yonsoo , Kang Narae , Kim Hung
Published: November 2015

Selecting an optimum number of calibration sites for hydrological modeling is challenging. Modelers often spend a lot of time and effort on trial and error because there is no guide. We propose a novel entropy method to automate the selection of the optimum combination of calibration sites. To illustrate, the proposed entropy method is applied using discharge data from one river basin in Korea. First, different combinations of discharge-gauging sites were grouped based on the maximum information estimated by the entropy method. Then, a hydrological model was set up for the study basin and was calibrated by estimating optimal parameters using a genetic algorithm at the discharge-gauging sites. The calibration result confirmed that the model’s performance was best when it was calibrated using the site number and combination suggested by the entropy method. In addition, the entropy method was useful in reducing the time and effort of model calibration. Therefore, we suggest and confirm the applicability of the entropy method in selecting calibration sites for hydrological modeling.
Drought Management Strategies in Spain
Authors: Paneque Pilar
Published: November 2015

The ongoing debate on water policies in Spain is characterised by a traditional paradigm, dominated by the intervention on hydrological systems through the construction and management of infrastructure, which is progressively being abandoned but is currently still strong while the emergence of new management approaches. Climate change and the Water Framework Directive (WFD) are, in addition, the background to increasing challenges to traditional perspectives on drought, and important steps have been taken towards their replacement. This work analyzes the evolution of the normative structure and management models to identify recent shifts. The analysis is based on a fundamental conceptual change that places drought in the framework of risk, rather than that of crisis. I argue for the need to advance new prevention policies that can finally overcome productivist inertia and undertake essential tasks such as reallocating water flows, revising and controlling the water-concession system, and reinforcing and guaranteeing public participation.
Distribution of Epilithic Diatoms in Estuaries of the Korean Peninsula in Relation to Environmental Variables
Authors: Kim Ha-Kyung , Kwon Yong-Su , Kim Yong-Jae , Kim Baik-Ho
Published: November 2015

This study explores the relationships between environmental factors and the distribution of epilithic diatoms in 161 estuaries of three coastal areas on the Korean peninsula. We investigated epilithic diatoms, water quality, and land use in the vicinities of the estuaries during the months of May 2012, 2013 and 2014, because Korea is relatively free from the influences of rainfall at that time of year. We recorded 327 diatom taxa from the study sites, and the assemblage was dominated by members of the Naviculaceae. Bacillariaceae accounted for the largest proportion of diatoms, and Nitzschia inconspicua (18%) and N. frustulum (9.6%) were the most dominant species. A cluster analysis based on epilithic diatom abundance suggested that the epilithic diatom communities of Korean estuaries can be classified into four large groups (G) according to geography, as follows: Ia—the East Sea watershed, Ib—the eastern watershed of the South Sea, IIa—the West Sea watershed, and IIb—the western watershed of the South Sea. The former two groups, Ia and Ib, showed higher proportions of forest land cover and use, higher species occurrence, lower salinity, lower turbidity, and lower concentrations of nutrients than the latter two groups, while the latter groups, IIa and IIb, had higher proportions of agricultural land cover and use, higher electrical conductivity, higher turbidity, higher concentrations of nutrients, and lower species occurrence. The environmental factors underlying the distribution of epilithic diatoms, representative of each region, are as follows: dissolved oxygen and forest land cover and use for Reimeria sinuate and Rhoicosphenia abbreviate of the East Sea (ES), salinity and turbidity for Tabularia fasciculate of the West Sea (WS), and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and nutrients for Cyclotella meneghiniana of the WS. On the other hand, the most influential environmental factors affecting the occurrence of indicator species showing the highest indicator values (>60%) of each group were electrical conductivity for Navicula saprophila and Reimeria sinuate of Ia, and turbidity for Encyonema minutum of IIa. Collectively, the distribution of epilithic diatom communities inhabiting Korean estuaries are determined by geographical factors and water quality, which are in turn influenced by land cover and use, and which differ from east to west.
Bromotyrosine-derived alkaloids from the Caribbean sponge Aplysina lacunosa
Authors: Göthel Qun , Sirirak Thanchanok , Köck Matthias
Published: November 2015

Three new bromotyrosine-derived alkaloids 14-debromo-11-deoxyfistularin-3 (1), aplysinin A (2), and aplysinin B (3), together with 15 known compounds (4–18) were isolated from the sponge Aplysina lacunosa collected from Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. The structures of the isolated compounds were identified on the basis of MS and NMR data analysis. The 13C NMR assignment of spirocyclohexadienylisoxazoline moieties of 1 and 2 were confirmed by an 1,1-ADEQUATE experiment. Compounds 1 and 2 showed a mild to moderate cytotoxic activities against KB-31 and FS4-LTM cell lines. Only aplysinin A (2) exhibited cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cells.
Les caractères originaux de la politisation des campagnes picardes en Révolution. L’exemple du département de l’Aisne (1789-1793)
Authors: Brassart Laurent
Published: November 2015

Le département de l’Aisne, et à travers lui, la plupart des départements picards et champenois, échappent au modèle classique d’une politisation révolutionnaire qui s’appuierait sur le dynamisme et le maillage structurant de fortes sociabilités politiques organisationnelles. De 1789 à 1793, les sociétés politiques et les comités de surveillance sont peu présents sur ce territoire rural, et souvent peu influents. Il revient essentiellement aux municipalités communales de capter le Politique. Pourtant, ce pouvoir politique et administratif villageois, contrairement à ce que pourraient laisser croire les résultats électoraux, est traversé d’une multitude de conflits dans lesquels les enjeux sociaux et la convergence des dynamiques politiques locales et nationales interfèrent constamment. Il en résulte de puissants processus de politisation, souvent informels, caractérisés par leur instabilité et réversibilité.
Justice pénale et lois d’exception sous le Directoire. La répression du brigandage dans les départements belges
Authors: Berger Emmanuel
Published: November 2015

Le Directoire se caractérise par l’adoption de législations d’exception destinées à réprimer spécifiquement le brigandage. La première loi est votée le 26 floréal an V, d’autres lui succéderont jusqu’au Consulat. Sous une apparente continuité, ces législations mettent en lumière des différences fondamentales dans la perception du brigandage et dans les moyens utilisés pour l’éradiquer. Les débats au Corps législatif éclairent les tensions entre les trois pouvoirs constitutionnels. Ils mettent aux prises les partisans d’une justice soumise aux politiques du gouvernement et ceux défendant son indépendance. Le soulèvement des départements belges en l’an VII joue un rôle décisif dans le renforcement de ces réformes pénales. À travers l’analyse des pratiques des tribunaux belges et des discours des représentants, il s’agira de déterminer les implications politiques de la législation « anti-brigands » et de mesurer les ruptures qu’elle provoque entre le Directoire et le Consulat.
D’Hondt secret
Authors: Baudart Anne
Published: November 2015

« D’Hondt secret » met au jour des aspects cachés, mais bien vivants, du philosophe herméneute de Hegel. Par un jeu de miroirs riche en paradoxes, le Hegel de D’Hondt dessine aussi un chemin de vie facilitant l’accès à la pensée, à l’abstraction des concepts, à la visée totalisante d’une œuvre. Il ouvre une voie de communication inédite, irréductible à toute facilité ou réduction malvenue. Le biographe de Hegel sert, sans discontinuer, un dessein d’exhaustivité et de complétude. Rien n’est à mépriser de ce qui constitue la teneur insigne d’une pensée magistrale, inscrite dans la chair de l’histoire concrète. Pour le dévoiler avec constance, il fallait être proche d’une sagesse que les Anciens incarnaient en plénitude, ne pas se prendre excessivement au sérieux au point de recouvrir et mutiler les visages du philosophe étudié. Il fallait manier humour, ironie, dérision, pour résister aux critiques, toujours prêtes à détruire le geste novateur.
Jacques D’Hondt et les Lumières, au prisme hégélien
Authors: Bloch Olivier
Published: November 2015

La pratique philosophique de Jacques D’Hondt est celle d’un historien de la philosophie au sens fort du terme, qui dans son cas se place au point de vue de Marx et surtout de Hegel pour étudier et apprécier les périodes, auteurs et courants philosophiques, en l’occurrence les Lumières, quelques-uns de ses protagonistes, et leurs aboutissements dans la Révolution française, à travers en particulier le sort réservé dans la Phénoménologie de l’Esprit à quelques passages majeurs de Diderot, ou par exemple à Marivaux et Dom Deschamps. Il en allait de même pour l’intérêt porté par Hegel dans les années 1790 à la franc-maçonnerie, et à des publications francophones d’orientation révolutionnaire, qui conduit D’Hondt à s’attacher à de tels courants et positions d’auteurs des Lumières tardives comme Volney, Rabaut de Saint-Étienne, ou Louis-Sébastien Mercier.
Jacques D’Hondt et la question de l’historicité de l’œuvre d’art chez Hegel
Authors: Königson-Montain Marie-Jeanne
Published: November 2015

À partir de sa magistrale réhabilitation de la philosophie hégélienne de l’histoire, Jacques D’Hondt donne une analyse éclairante de la conception hégélienne de l’art comme représentation sensible de l’Esprit.
Le lien de caritas dans la société chrétienne médiévale et la justification du baptême des enfants en bas-âge
Authors: Neyrinck Axelle
Published: November 2015

Au Moyen Âge, les penseurs réfèrent la société chrétienne occidentale au divin et, par conséquent, se représentent le lien social en termes de caritas, « dans le sens de l’amour spirituel, véhiculé par le Saint-Esprit et transitant par Dieu » (Anita Guerreau-Jalabert), qui irrigue toute la société. Cette caritas est dispensée par les sacrements qui rythment la vie du chrétien, au premier rang desquels le baptême, rite d’entrée dans la communauté. Celui-ci, destiné, aux premiers temps de l’Église, aux catéchumènes adultes, prenait la forme d’un engagement personnel. Or, au cours du haut Moyen Âge, le baptême des petits enfants se généralise. Cependant, ce pédobaptême n’est pas sans poser problème : comment l’enfant, étymologiquement incapable de parler (in-fans), peut-il prendre un engagement et témoigner de sa foi ? Les théologiens médiévaux, à la recherche de solutions doctrinales à ce problème, élaborent une réflexion sur les martyrs non baptisés que sont les saints Innocents, petits enfants juifs dont l’Évangile de Matthieu (2, 16-18) rapporte le massacre. Tués sur ordre d’Hérode, averti par les Mages de la naissance d’un roi des juifs, Jésus, amené à lui prendre sa place, ils font l’objet d’une élaboration théologique complexe en lien avec ces problématiques baptismales, dont cet article tente de rendre compte.
Modeling and Simulation of a Hydroelectric Process
Authors: Mureşan Vlad , Abrudean Mihail , Colosi Tiberiu , Bondici Cristian , Clitan Iulia , Ungureşan Mihaela Ligia , Secară Mihai
Published: November 2015

In this paper, a solution for the mathematical modeling and simulation of the technological process associated to a turbine – synchronous generator group, belonging to a small hydroelectric power plant. In order to determine the parameters of the treated technological process, some experimental identification procedures are applied. The experimental identification procedures are applied to the experimental data obtained from the real plant. The validity of the obtained mathematical model is proved through the comparison of the experimental data with the data obtained after the model simulation. The technological importance of having a valid mathematical model of the hydroelectric process consists in the possibility to study the plant behavior for different working regimes using the results of the model simulation and in the possibility of including the process in an automatic control structure.
Influence of Exhaust Nozzle Geometry on the Jet Potential Core Development
Authors: Crunteanu Daniel Eugeniu , Misirliu Valentin Ionut , Dumitrescu Oana , Gherman Bogdan
Published: November 2015

In this paper, a numerical simulation was performed on a scale turbofan engine nozzle to asses the influence of two nozzle configurations over the flow performance while the nozzle is situated at a certain distance from the ground. The turbulence model chosen for this numerical simulation was SST k-ω to capture boundary layer detachment and jet attachment to the ground. For this analysis two different computational domains where considered, while for the third case, boundary conditions for secondary inlet where modified. To assess the impact of these geometry changes a comparison between cases is made at different location in the domain.
A Mixed H2/H∞  Jump Markovian Design Approach for the Automatic Flight Control System of an Unmanned Airship
Authors: Stoica Adrian Mihail , Mujdei Laura
Published: November 2015

This paper presents a design methodology for the heading control system of an unmanned airship. Since the aircraft motion depends both on deterministic command signals required for tracking a desired path and on random exogenous inputs modelling the wind influence, a mixed H2/H-infinity type method have been chosen for the design of the automatic flight control. Moreover, due to the fact that the vehicle dynamics at straight and level flight is different from the model at level turning flight, a stochastic Markovian model with two states is adopted to simulate these two situations. A design methodology for a state-feedback controller with Markov jumps is presented. The theoretical developments are illustrated by numerical comparative results indicating the benefits of proposed optimal design approach.
Experimental Research Based on the Technological Parameters Influence at the Interface Material - Layers Deposited
Authors: Boboc Camelia
Published: November 2015

Processing by thermal spray metallization is a process widely used in industrial area. Surface Coatings systems using electric arc spray metallization opens up a range of new possibilities for refurbishing and bringing the parameters according to the technical documentation, the main objective is to ensure a high resistance to wear and corrosion. Through this research I set a schedule to settle the experimental influences how technological parameters on interface material - deposited layers.
Contributions to Hydrogenerator Protection when its Running in the Motor Regime is Detected
Authors: Purcaru Dorina , Purcaru Anca
Published: November 2015

The paper presents a modern solution for the hydrogenerator protection implementation when its running in the motor regime is detected. Such protection function implementation is performed by a digital equipment organized around an embedded system. This equipment must be connected (locally or remote) to a computer for the configuration of the protection function and the set of the characteristic parameters. The digital equipment also performs the monitoring and display of several characteristic parameters of the hydrogenerator and allows obtaining very useful records for the post-failure analysis. The presented solution is successfully used in hydropower plants, as the results obtained in real conditions of hydrogenerator operation confirm it.
Bi-Mobile Leg Mechanism Dynamic Model
Authors: Comanescu Adriana , Comanescu Dinu , Dugaesescu Ileana , Ungureanu Liviu Marian
Published: November 2015

The paper brings into attention the dynamic analysis of a bi-mobile mechanism selected from the literature and used for the leg of a mobile platform. Two solutions of bi-mobile mechanical systems applied in such purpose are found. In the classic theory of mechanisms the dynamic models for the mono-mobile mechanisms are known. Through the motion equation these put into evidence the variation of the reduced moment or reduced force applied to the input link for an entire cycle in the permanent regime functioning of the mechanism. In the case of the leg bi-mobile mechanism the approached dynamic model is based on the bi-mobile RTRTR active group firstly applied for a real technique solution in robotics. The mechanism may be also used for robot arms.
Dynamic Modeling and Simulation of a 4-Wheel Integral Steering Vehicle
Authors: Alexandru Cătălin
Published: November 2015

The work deals with the dynamic modeling and simulation of a 4-wheel steering vehicle. The steering system for the front wheels is a classical one (with pinion & rack), while for the rear wheels, a new design with rotational cam & translational follower has been developed by considering the integral steering law. The virtual prototype of the vehicle was modeled - simulated by using the MBS software environment ADAMS of MSC. The results of the dynamic analysis prove the performance of the proposed solution, in terms of handling and stability.
Proper LabVIEW Instrumentation of the Robot’s Kinematics and Dynamics Behavior
Authors: Olaru Adrian , Olaru Serban , Mihai Niculae , Mikolajczyk Tadeusz , Bardac Doru
Published: November 2015

The most important in the study of the robots is the kinematic and dynamic analyze. Many researchers studied the kinematics or dynamics without simulation and assisted analyze that it is very heavy to understand the behavior and to show some characteristics. The paper shows one assisted method by using the virtual proper LabVIEW instrumentation (VI). For the forward kinematics (FK) and for direct dynamics (DD) was used one recurrent matrix method which was developed with quaternion algebra, that will be possible to use in many different other types of robots, only by initial settings of the type of joints, the movement axis, the home position, the dimension of each robot’s body, the application point in the working space of the manufacturing cells and the internal coordinates in each joint. For the inverse kinematics (IK) we used the Iterative Pseudo Inverse Jacobian Matrix Method (IPIJMM) coupled with the proper Sigmoid Bipolar Hyperbolic Tangent Neural Network with Time Delay and Recurrent Links (SBHTNN-TDRL). The paper describe all steps in one case study to obtain the space curve in different Euller planes by using one arm type robot and the proposedVI-s. The presented method and the LabVIEWVI-s are generally and they can be used in all other robots types and for all other conventional and unconventional space curves.
The Role of Motion Planning in Robotics
Authors: Masehian Ellips
Published: November 2015

As robotic systems evolve and get more sophisticated, expectations of them to accomplish high-level tasks increase gradually and their motion planning becomes more complex and difficult. The motion planning problem has been studied for more than four decades from different aspects such that presently has a vast literature. This paper investigates different components of the robot motion planning (RMP) problem and presents a new comprehensive taxonomy for a wide range of RMP problems. The taxonomy is based on a survey of the literature on RMP problems and applications in robotics and computer science.
Numerical Simulation of a Vertical Axis Wind Turbine for Urban Use
Authors: Mălăel Ion , Moutet Lucas , Drăgan Valeriu
Published: November 2015

This paper presents a detailed CFD analysis of an H-type Darrieus VAWT of 1.5 kW. Menter's SST turbulence model was used in a pressure-based, transient solver in order to obtain both the global and the detailed flow parameters of the turbine at its design point TSR. Due to the sensitivity of the case itself, a low Reynolds number as well as a curvature and rotation correction were added to the baseline turbulence model. The airfoil of the turbine was chosen following a classical drag polar screening and evaluation, with particular care to the angles of attack beyond the stalling angle. Results indicate that the NACA 0021 was an optimal choice for this case and that the global parameters are close to the classical theory at design point. Further work may include 3D LES or DES of the flow in order to obtain even more details regarding the vorticity structures developing along within the turbine.
Massive Cyber-Attacks Patterns Implemented with BDI Agents
Authors: Moga Horatiu , Boscoianu Mircea , Ungureanu Delia , Lile Ramona , Erginoz Nurettin
Published: November 2015

This paper treats the new phenomenon of cyber-war as a new form of human violence between states. The concept of cyber-attack is a particular form of cybernetic war and it is one expensive in terms of cost. We tried to achieve a uniform approach of technological and sociological type using BDI agents and thus making the step to addressing computational sociology of cyberspace. We present two patterns of massive type attacks applicable in cyber space using BDI agents. The approach using BDI agents turned to be flexible and capable to model complex forms of cyber bullying that can occur between two countries in future.
A Statistical Review on the Decision about the Fighter Pilot's Ejection Inromanian Air Force
Authors: Gheorghiu Alexandru , Boscoianu Mircea
Published: November 2015

Worldwide, the ejection is a challenging method and difficult to approach by fighter pilots. Considering that when eject, the pilot experience a g-force up to 15-18 G, which can affect the physical health of the pilot, the ejection decision can be affected. Besides this reason, with the desire to save the aircraft or third parties, the pilot may lose his life in the air disaster. The current paper reveals a statistical approach of aviation accidents in Romanian Air Force during 1951-2015. 225 cases were analyzed, which involved 235 aircraft and 280 fighter pilots. The below information is a personal one and does not reflect an official position of the Ministry of National Defense.
Experimental Study towards Heterogeneous Welded Joint, Case Study: Welding Joint of Carbon Steel S235JR + AR with Stainless Steel 316L
Authors: Dijmărescu Maria Cristina , Cicic Dumitru Titi , Rontescu Corneliu , Solomon Gheorghe , Vasile Mihai Ion
Published: November 2015

In manufacturing industry there are many applications for the permanent joint of components of different shapes, but they are also very different in terms of chemical composition and structure [1, 2]. This paper is trying to find technological solutions of assembling by welding of two steels with totally different chemical composition, i.e. carbon steel S235JR + AR and austenitic stainless 316L. The process used for making the heterogeneous joint was Metal Inert Gas (MIG) with flux cored wire, numerically coded 137. The paper presents the effects of welding technology, through heat input, such as hardness. Variations of hardness values determined in the joint areas are presented, as well as the chemical composition of the welded joint obtained using the flux cored wire T 23 12 LPM 1/C1, according to EN ISO 17633 - A.
A Review on the Performance of Tribological Properties of Cutting Fluids
Authors: Ganesh S. , Umar Mohamed Jamaludeen , Rajaganapathy C. , Saravanakumar V.
Published: November 2015

Tribology deals with friction, wear and lubricants. It plays an important role in mechanical field. It finds its major application in industrial and automotive sector, in which this thesis considered the tribology in metal removal industrial sector. In that application, the role of cutting fluid in lathe machining operations have been chosen. One of the most important challenging cases is to minimize the friction in machining of titanium alloys. While machining, the heat should be minimized as low as possible. This thesis deals with the study of cutting fluids in machining of titanium alloys. The problem occurs while using mineral oil as a cutting fluid in machining that it is non-biodegradable in nature and affects the environment while disposing it. This thesis aims to identify the alternate cutting fluids instead of mineral oil, which is to be effective cooling and non-toxic to environment. For that, Machining condition should be controllable by using some grammar rule without affecting the Productivity.
Combustion Analysis of Polanga (Calophyllum inophyllum) Biodiesel
Authors: Gopinath Anantharaman , Sairam Krishnamurthy , Velraj Ramalingam
Published: November 2015

There is a mounting concern in many countries to explore fuels that are environment friendly. Although straight vegetable oils can be used in diesel engines, there are limitations in their usage due to their high viscosity, low volatility, and poor cold flow property. Biodiesel is a fatty acid alkyl ester, which can be derived from any vegetable oil by transesterification. Biodiesel is a renewable, biodegradable and non-toxic fuel. In the present study, polanga (Calophyllum inophyllum) oil was transesterified with methanol using sodium hydroxide as catalyst to obtain polanga biodiesel. To evaluate the combustion analysis, polanga biodiesel was tested in a single-cylinder, four-stroke, direct-injection, constant speed, diesel engine. The results were compared with combustion characteristics of diesel fuel. The result showed that polanga biodiesel exhibits similar combustion characteristics as that of diesel. The actual start of injection and start of combustion were found to be earlier for polanga biodiesel as compared to diesel. The ignition delay period was found to be shorter with polanga biodiesel. The magnitude of peak heat release rate and peak pressure was observed to be lower for polanga biodiesel. Though the location of peak heat release rate was earlier for polanga biodiesel, its peak pressure location was found be delayed when compared to diesel. Polanga biodiesel exhibits a shorter combustion duration than diesel. Since the measured parameters for biodiesel differs only by a smaller magnitude when compared with diesel, this investigation ensures the suitability of polanga biodiesel as a fuel for CI engines.
Activated Carbon, Lithium Hydroxide, Calcium Hydroxide Scrubber for Carbon-Di-Oxide Capture from Exhausts of Vehicles
Authors: Krishnan V. , Jay Dhwarak B.V. , Nithyanandan N. , Rajakumar I. Paul Theophilus
Published: November 2015

Vehicular pollution is one of the main reasons for air pollution in many cities. According to Industrial Environment Carbon, every gallon of gasoline produces 14% total volume of carbon dioxide, this will ultimately lead to air pollution and global warming [10]. To minimize the emission level, physical adsorption [4] can be used for the removal of organic molecule from exhaust gas stream by impulse collision. So our proposed system consists of a filter matrix bed, made of activated carbon, calcium hydroxide, lithium hydroxide [8,9]. Activated carbon is the most widely used adsorbent. It can adsorb a wide range of pollutants with varying dimensions by its broad pore distribution, micro and mesophores. Calcium group can naturally adsorb carbon component and get transformed into lime. Lithium hydroxide is widely used as carbon capturing material in space craft for adsorbing carbon dioxide exhaled by astronaut as a breathing scrubber. So collectively these three carbon sequestrating material can efficiently remove the pollutant by chemisorptions [2].
Optimal Current Value Estimation for an Automotive Magneto Rheological (MR) Fluid Damper Actuation
Authors: Jancirani J. , Nanthakumar A.J.D. , Niketh P.
Published: November 2015

In this paper, a finite element analysis of a Magneto Rheological (MR) damper is carried over. A finite element model was constructed to analyse and examine the MR damper. The optimal current value for achieving the required damping force is found out. The results of the work can be used to develop more efficient and reliable MR damper, thereby reducing the time involved in prototyping the product.
Recent Development and Application of Polymers in Concrete Technology in Singapore
Authors: Tao N. , Li X. , Lu Jin Ping
Published: November 2015

Polymer has been extensively used in construction in Singapore during the past few decades and has become a necessary component of some building materials including polymer modified cement mortar, epoxy or Polyurethane (PU) floor screed and injection materials, and fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) materials. Compare with conventional concrete, polymer concrete composites may achieve remarkable advantages, such as high tension, high flexural strength, high ductility, ability to absorb energy, and high resistance to chemical attack, corrosion, freezing and thawing, and consequently gain more research interest for the scientific community. There are numerous possibilities for incorporation of these materials, such as latex, natural resources, fibers, nanomaterials and laminates. The presence of polymer makes it suitable for wide applications. The various categories of polymer concrete composites are widely used in Singapore’s public and private projects. To ensure and maintain the high standards of the building quality, independent testing and inspection plays a very important role. The present paper reviews recent research and development activities, and applications of polymer concrete composites in Singapore. The innovations and new approaches are reviewed. The development of the requirements and specifications for various polymer concrete composite products are described and discussed. The effect of different factors on the polymer concrete composite and material selection are also described. In addition, the paper also outlines the methods and measures used to inspect and control the quality of application.
The Effect of Nano-Silica Particles on Fresh and Hardened State Properties of Polymer Cement Mortars
Authors: Zabihi N. , Ozkul M. Hulusi
Published: November 2015

Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) was used in the amounts of 5, 10 and 15% of the cement content in the production of polymer cement mortars. Besides, nanosilica, in three different sizes of 35, 17 and 4 nm, were included in the mortars. The addition of nanosilica particles in polymer cement concretes and mortars affects both fresh and hardened state properties. The extremely high surface area of nanoparticles increases the water demand; hence to obtain a workable mixture it is necessary to increase the superplasticizer used. In the hardened state, the strength and impermeability properties improve due to both pozzolanic reaction and filler effect of nanosilica particles as well as polymer film formation. The flow properties in the fresh state and flexural and compressive strength properties in the hardened state were determined.