Abstract: The special and unique advantages of explosive
forming, has developed its use in different industries. Considering the
important influence of improving the current explosive forming
techniques on increasing the efficiency and control over the
explosive forming procedure, the effects of air and water as the
energy-conveying medium, and also their differences will be
illustrated in this paper. Hence, a large number of explosive forming
tests have been conducted on two sizes of thin walled cylindrical
shells by using air and water as the working medium. Comparative
diagrams of the maximum radial deflection of work-pieces of the
same size, as a function of the scaled distance, show that for the
points with the same values of scaled distance, the maximum radial
deformation caused by the under water explosive loading is 4 to 5
times more than the deflection of the shells under explosive forming,
while using air. Results of this experimental research have also been
compared with other studies which show that using water as the
energy conveying media increases the efficiency up to 4.8 times. The
effect of the media on failure modes of the shells, and the necking
mechanism of the walls of the specimens, while being explosively
loaded, are also discussed in this issue. Measuring the tested
specimens shows that, the increase in the internal volume has been
accompanied by necking of the walls, which finally results in the
radial rupture of the structure.
Abstract: We focus on the excitation and propagation properties
of surface plasmon polariton (SPP). We have developed a SPP
excitation device in combination with a grating structures fabricated
by using the scanning probe lithography. Perturbation approach was
used to investigate the coupling properties of SPP with a spatial
harmonic wave supported by a metallic grating. A phase shift grating
SPP coupler has been fabricated and the optical property was
evaluated by the Fraunhofer diffraction formula. We have been
experimentally confirmed the induced stop band by diffraction
measurement. We have also observed the wavenumber shift of the
resonance condition of SPP owing to effect of a phase shift.
Abstract: Most often the contaminants are not taken seriously into consideration, and this behavior comes out directly from the lack of monitoring and professional reporting about pollution in the printing facilities in Serbia. The goal of planned and systematic ozone measurements in ambient air of the screen printing facilities in Novi Sad is to examine of its impact on the employees health, and to track trends in concentration. In this study, ozone concentrations were determined by using discontinuous and continuous method during the automatic and manual screen printing process. Obtained results indicates that the average concentrations of ozone measured during the automatic process were almost 3 to 28 times higher for discontinuous and 10 times higher for continuous method (1.028 ppm) compared to the values prescribed by OSHA. In the manual process, average concentrations of ozone were within prescribed values for discontinuous and almost 3 times higher for continuous method (0.299 ppm).
Abstract: This paper proposes an active soft-switching circuit for
bridge converters aiming to improve the power conversion efficiency.
The proposed circuit achieves loss-less switching for both main and
auxiliary switches without increasing the main switch current/voltage
rating. A winding coupled to the primary of power transformer
ensures ZCS for the auxiliary switches during their turn-off. A 350 W,
100 kHz phase shifted full bridge (PSFB) converter is built to validate
the analysis and design. Theoretical loss calculations for proposed
circuit is presented. The proposed circuit is compared with passive
soft switched PSFB in terms of efficiency and loss in duty cycle.
Abstract: the measurement of the angular distribution for the
elastic scattering of 16O, 14N and 12C on 27Al has been done at energy
1.75 MeV/nucleon. The optical potential code SPIVAL used in this
work to analyze the experimental results. A good agreement between
the experimental and theoretical results was obtained.
Abstract: In this paper, we present an improved fast and robust
search algorithm for copy detection using histogram-based features for
short MPEG video clips from large video database. There are two
types of histogram features used to generate more robust features. The
first one is based on the adjacent pixel intensity difference quantization
(APIDQ) algorithm, which had been reliably applied to human face
recognition previously. An APIDQ histogram is utilized as the feature
vector of the frame image. Another one is ordinal histogram feature
which is robust to color distortion. Furthermore, by Combining with a
temporal division method, the spatial and temporal features of the
video sequence are integrated to realize fast and robust video search
for copy detection. Experimental results show the proposed algorithm
can detect the similar video clip more accurately and robust than
conventional fast video search algorithm.
Abstract: In this paper, we propose an improved fast search
algorithm using combined histogram features and temporal division
method for short MPEG video clips from large video database. There
are two types of histogram features used to generate more robust
features. The first one is based on the adjacent pixel intensity
difference quantization (APIDQ) algorithm, which had been reliably
applied to human face recognition previously. An APIDQ histogram is
utilized as the feature vector of the frame image. Another one is
ordinal feature which is robust to color distortion. Combined with
active search [4], a temporal pruning algorithm, fast and robust video
search can be realized. The proposed search algorithm has been
evaluated by 6 hours of video to search for given 200 MPEG video
clips which each length is 30 seconds. Experimental results show the
proposed algorithm can detect the similar video clip in merely 120ms,
and Equal Error Rate (ERR) of 1% is achieved, which is more
accurately and robust than conventional fast video search algorithm.
Abstract: The main objective of this study was to demonstrate that differentiation of infected and vaccinated animals (DIVA) strategy using different ELISA tests is possible when a subunit vaccine (Haemagglutinin protein) is used to prevent Avian influenza. Special emphasis was placed on the differentiation in the serological response to different components of the AIV (Nucleoprotein, Neuraminidase, Haemagglutinin, Nucleocapsid) between chickens that were vaccinated with a whole virus kill vaccine and recombinant vaccine. Furthermore, the potential use of this DIVA strategy using ELISA assays to detect Neuraminidase 1 (N1) was analyzed as strategy in countries where the field virus is H5N1 and the vaccine used is formulated with H5N2. Detection of AIV-s antibodies to any component in serum was negative for all animals on the study days 0-13. At study day 14 the titers of antibodies against Nucleoprotein (NP) and Nucleocapsid (NC) rose in the experimental groups vaccinated with Volvac® AI KV and were negatives during all the trial in the experimental groups vaccinated with a subunit H5; significant statistically differences were observed between these groups (p < 0.05). The seroconversion either Haemagglutinin or Neuraminidase was evident after 21 days post-vaccination in the experimental groups vaccinated with the respective viral fraction. Regarding the main aim of this study and according with the results that were obtained, use a combination of different ELISA test as a DIVA strategy is feasible when the vaccination is carry out with a subunit H5 vaccine. Also is possible to use the ELISA kit to detect Neuraminidase (either N1 or N2) as a DIVA concept in countries where H5N1 is present and the vaccination programs are done with H5N2 vaccine.
Abstract: Recently, the health of retired National Football
League players, particularly lineman has been investigated. A number of studies have reported increased cardiometabolic risk, premature ardiovascular disease and incidence of type 2 diabetes. Rugby union players have somatotypes very similar
to National Football league players which suggest that rugby players may have similar health risks. The International Golden Oldies World Rugby Festival (GORF) provided a
unique opportunity to investigate the demographics of veteran rugby players. METHODOLOGIES: A cross-sectional, observational study was completed using an online web-based
questionnaire that consisted of medical history and
physiological measures. Data analysis was completed using a one sample t-test (50yrs) and Chi-square test. RESULTS: A total of 216 veteran rugby competitors
(response rate = 6.8%) representing 10 countries, aged 35-72 yrs (mean 51.2, S.D. ±8.0), participated in the online survey. As a group, the incidence of current smokers was low at 8.8%
(avg 72.4 cigs/wk) whilst the percentage consuming alcohol
was high (93.1% (avg 11.2 drinks/wk). Competitors reported
the following top six chronic diseases/disorders; hypertension
(18.6%), arthritis (OA/RA, 11.5%), asthma (9.3%),
hyperlipidemia (8.2%), diabetes (all types, 7.5%) and gout (6%), there were significant differences between groups with
regard to cancer (all types) and migraines. When compared to
the Australian general population (Australian Bureau of Statistics data, n=18,000), GORF competitors had a
Climstein Mike, Walsh Joe (corresponding author) and Burke Stephen
School of Exercise Science, Australian Catholic University, 25A Barker Road,
Strathfield, Sydney, NSW, 2016, Australia (e-mail:
[email protected], [email protected],
[email protected]).
John Best is with Orthosports, 160 Belmore Rd., Randwick, Sydney,NSW
2031, Australia (e-mail: [email protected]).
Heazlewood, Ian Timothy is with School of Environmental and Life
Sciences, Faculty Education, Health and Science, Charles Darwin University,
Precinct Yellow Building 2, Charles Darwin University, NT 0909, Australia
(e-mail: [email protected]).
Kettunen Jyrki Arcada University of Applied Sciences, Jan-Magnus
Janssonin aukio 1, FI-00550, Helsinki, Finland (e-mail:
[email protected]).
Adams Kent is with California State University Monterey Bay, Kinesiology Department, 100 Campus Center, Seaside, CA., 93955, USA (email: [email protected]).
DeBeliso Mark is with Department of Physical Education and Human
Performance, Southern Utah University, 351 West University Blvd, Cedar
City, Utah, USA (e-mail: [email protected]).
significantly lower incidence of anxiety (p
Abstract: Clustering algorithms are attractive for the task of class identification in spatial databases. However, the application to large spatial databases rises the following requirements for clustering algorithms: minimal requirements of domain knowledge to determine the input parameters, discovery of clusters with arbitrary shape and good efficiency on large databases. The well-known clustering algorithms offer no solution to the combination of these requirements. In this paper, a density based clustering algorithm (DCBRD) is presented, relying on a knowledge acquired from the data by dividing the data space into overlapped regions. The proposed algorithm discovers arbitrary shaped clusters, requires no input parameters and uses the same definitions of DBSCAN algorithm. We performed an experimental evaluation of the effectiveness and efficiency of it, and compared this results with that of DBSCAN. The results of our experiments demonstrate that the proposed algorithm is significantly efficient in discovering clusters of arbitrary shape and size.
Abstract: Large-scale systems such as Grids offer
infrastructures for both data distribution and parallel processing. The
use of Grid infrastructures is a more recent issue that is already
impacting the Distributed Database Management System industry. In
DBMS, distributed query processing has emerged as a fundamental
technique for ensuring high performance in distributed databases.
Database placement is particularly important in large-scale systems
because it reduces communication costs and improves resource
usage. In this paper, we propose a dynamic database placement
policy that depends on query patterns and Grid sites capabilities. We
evaluate the performance of the proposed database placement policy
using simulations. The obtained results show that dynamic database
placement can significantly improve the performance of distributed
query processing.
Abstract: The expression of LFA-1 diverges from the
physiological condition, thus active targeting carrier can provide the
benefits from difference into LFA-1 expression in various conditions.
Here, the selectivity of cIBR-conjugated nanoparticles (cIBR-NPs),
in terms of uptake, was investigated using PBMCs, Mixed PBMCMolt-
3 cells and Molt-3 cells. The expressions of LFA-1 on Molt-3
cells, from flow cytometry and Western blot, possessed the highest
level whereas PBMCs showed the lowest level. The kinetic uptake
profiles of cIBR-NPs were obtained by flow cytometry, which the
degree of cellular uptake presented a similar trend with the level of
LFA-1 indicating the influence of LFA-1 expression on the cellular
uptake of cIBR-NPs. The conformation of LFA-1 had a slight effect
on the cellular uptake of cIBR-NPs. Overall we demonstrated that
cIBR-NPs enhanced cellular uptake and improved the selectivity of
drug carriers to LFA-1 on the leukemia cells, which related with the
order of LFA-1 expression.
Abstract: The aim of this work is to study the elastic transfer
phenomenon which takes place in the elastic scattering of 16O on 12C
at energies near the Coulomb barrier. Where, the angular distribution
decrease steadily with increasing the scattering angle, then the cross
section will increase at backward angles due to the α-transfer process.
This reaction was also studied at different energies for tracking the
nuclear rainbow phenomenon. The experimental data of the angular
distribution at these energies were compared to the calculation
predictions. The optical potential codes such as SPIVAL and
Distorted Wave Born Approximation (DWUCK5) were used in
analysis.
Abstract: This paper deals with analysis of flexural stiffness,
indentation and their energies in three point loading of sandwich
beams with composite faces from Eglass/epoxy and cores from
Polyurethane or PVC. Energy is consumed in three stages of
indentation in laminated beam, indentation of sandwich beam and
bending of sandwich beam. Theory of elasticity is chosen to present
equations for indentation of laminated beam, then these equations
have been corrected to offer better results. An analytical model has
been used assuming an elastic-perfectly plastic compressive behavior
of the foam core. Classical theory of beam is used to describe three
point bending. Finite element (FE) analysis of static indentation
sandwich beams is performed using the FE code ABAQUS. The
foam core is modeled using the crushable foam material model and
response of the foam core is experimentally characterized in uniaxial
compression.
Three point bending and indentation have been done
experimentally in two cases of low velocity and higher velocity
(quasi-impact) of loading. Results can describe response of beam in
terms of core and faces thicknesses, core material, indentor diameter,
energy absorbed, and length of plastic area in the testing. The
experimental results are in good agreement with the analytical and
FE analyses. These results can be used as an introduction for impact
loading and energy absorbing of sandwich structures.
Abstract: Delay-Tolerant Networks (DTNs) are sparse, wireless
networks where disconnections are common due to host mobility and
low node density. The Message Ferrying (MF) scheme is a mobilityassisted
paradigm to improve connectivity in DTN-like networks. A
ferry or message ferry is a special node in the network which has
a per-determined route in the deployed area and relays messages
between mobile hosts (MHs) which are intermittently connected.
Increased contact opportunities among mobile hosts and the ferry
improve the performance of the network, both in terms of message
delivery ratio and average end-end delay. However, due to the inherent
mobility of mobile hosts and pre-determined periodicity of the
message ferry, mobile hosts may often -miss- contact opportunities
with a ferry. In this paper, we propose the combination of stationary
ferry access points (FAPs) with MF routing to increase contact
opportunities between mobile hosts and the MF and consequently
improve the performance of the DTN. We also propose several
placement models for deploying FAPs on MF routes. We evaluate the
performance of the FAP placement models through comprehensive
simulation. Our findings show that FAPs do improve the performance
of MF-assisted DTNs and symmetric placement of FAPs outperforms
other placement strategies.
Abstract: This article is an extension and a practical application
approach of Wheeler-s NEBIC theory (Net Enabled Business
Innovation Cycle). NEBIC theory is a new approach in IS research
and can be used for dynamic environment related to new technology.
Firms can follow the market changes rapidly with support of the IT
resources. Flexible firms adapt their market strategies, and respond
more quickly to customers changing behaviors. When every leading
firm in an industry has access to the same IT resources, the way that
these IT resources are managed will determine the competitive
advantages or disadvantages of firm. From Dynamic Capabilities
Perspective and from newly introduced NEBIC theory by Wheeler,
we know that only IT resources cannot deliver customer value but
good configuration of those resources can guarantee customer value
by choosing the right emerging technology, grasping the economic
opportunities through business innovation and growth. We found
evidences in literature that SOA (Service Oriented Architecture) is a
promising emerging technology which can deliver the desired
economic opportunity through modularity, flexibility and loosecoupling.
SOA can also help firms to connect in network which can
open a new window of opportunity to collaborate in innovation and
right kind of outsourcing
Abstract: The objectives of this research are to search the
management pattern of Nakhon Pathom lodging entrepreneurs for
sufficient economy ways, to know the threat that affects this sector
and design fit arrangement model to sustain their business with
Nakhon Pathom style. What will happen if they do not use this
approach? Will they have a financial crisis? The data and
information are collected by informal discussions with 12 managers
and 400 questionnaires. A mixed method of both qualitative research
and quantitative research are used. Bent Flyvbjerg’s phronesis is
utilized for this analysis. Our research will prove that sufficient
economy can help small business firms to solve their problems. We
think that the results of our research will be a financial model to
solve many problems of the entrepreneurs and this way will can be a
model for other provinces of Thailand.
Abstract: Low silica type X (LSX) Zeolite is one of useful
material in many manufacturing due to the advantage properties
including high surface area, stability, microporous crystalline
aluminosilicates and positive ion in an extra–framework. The LSX
was used rice husk silica source which obtained by leaching with
hydrochloric acid and calcination at 500C. To improve the
synthesis method, the LSX was crystallizated in Teflon–lined
autoclave will expedite deceasing of the amorphous particles. The
mixed gel with composition of 5.5 Na2O : 1.65 K2O : Al2O3 : 2.2
SiO2 : 122 H2O was crystallized in different container
(Polypropylene bottom and Teflon–lined autoclave). The obtained
powder was characterized by X–ray diffraction (XRD), X–ray
fluorescence spectrometry, N2 adsorption-desorption analysis BET
surface area Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier
transform infrared spectroscopy to justify the quality of zeolite. The
results showed the crystallized zeolite in Teflon lined autoclave has
102.8 nm of crystal size, 286 m2/g of surface area and fewer amounts
of round amorphous particles when compared with the crystallized
zeolite in Polypropylene.
Abstract: Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were
performed to compute nitrogen-14 and boron-11 nuclear quadrupole
resonance (NQR) spectroscopy parameters in the representative
model of armchair boron nitride nanotube (BNNT) for the first time.
The considered model consisting of 1 nm length of H-capped (5, 5)
single-wall BNNT were first allowed to fully relax and then the NQR
calculations were carried out on the geometrically optimized model.
The evaluated nuclear quadrupole coupling constants and asymmetry
parameters for the mentioned nuclei reveal that the model can be
divided into seven layers of nuclei with an equivalent electrostatic
environment where those nuclei at the ends of tubes have a very
strong electrostatic environment compared to the other nuclei along
the length of tubes. The calculations were performed via Gaussian 98
package of program.
Abstract: New generation mobile communication networks have
the ability of supporting triple play. In order that, Orthogonal
Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) access techniques have
been chosen to enlarge the system ability for high data rates
networks. Many of cross-layer modeling and optimization schemes
for Quality of Service (QoS) and capacity of downlink multiuser
OFDM system were proposed. In this paper, the Maximum Weighted
Capacity (MWC) based resource allocation at the Physical (PHY)
layer is used. This resource allocation scheme provides a much better
QoS than the previous resource allocation schemes, while
maintaining the highest or nearly highest capacity and costing similar
complexity. In addition, the Delay Satisfaction (DS) scheduling at the
Medium Access Control (MAC) layer, which allows more than one
connection to be served in each slot is used. This scheduling
technique is more efficient than conventional scheduling to
investigate both of the number of users as well as the number of
subcarriers against system capacity. The system will be optimized for
different operational environments: the outdoor deployment scenarios
as well as the indoor deployment scenarios are investigated and also
for different channel models. In addition, effective capacity approach
[1] is used not only for providing QoS for different mobile users, but
also to increase the total wireless network's throughput.