Higher‐order differentiation of network functions using signal flow graphs

This paper presents the application of signal flow graphs (SFG) in the calculation of higher‐order derivatives (sensitivities) of the linear circuit functions. The idea of exact differentiation of the circuit functions is based on the adjoint networks, translated into SFG language. Thanks to its application, it is possible to calculate the exact value of any order derivative of circuit function without knowing this function in explicit form. Moreover, these derivatives can be determined on the basis of analysis of only two graphs (circuits): the original and adjoint one. We show that the SFG approach to the sensitivity calculation allows to reduce greatly the complexity of calculations. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Catalytic graphene formation in coal tar pitch- derived carbon structure in the presence of SiO2 nanoparticles

A simple and effective way to manufacture graphene from a coal tar pitch (CTP) is demonstrated. Silica (SiO₂) nanoparticles were used to modify the CTP as carbon precursor. A silica nanofiller introduced into the CTP matrix underwent carboreduction during heat treatment to 2000 °C, resulting in the formation of silicon carbide. Surfaces of SiC grains were sites for graphene formation. The influence of SiO₂ on the structure and microstructure of CTP- based carbon matrix, after annealing up to 2800 °C, was studied. Carbon samples were analyzed using X- ray Diffraction (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Raman Spectroscopy. Crystallite sizes (L_a, L_c) and interplanar distance (d₀₀₂) were determined. The presence of SiO₂ in CTP carbon precursor favored the crystallites’ growth in the ‘a′ crystallographic graphite direction, and inhibited their growth on the ‘c′ axis. The crystallites composing of graphene layers, were characterized by an elongated dimension in the ‘a′ axis direction. Above 2000 °C silicon carbide decomposed, followed by the sublimation of silicon from the carbon matrix.     

Extension of the node‐to‐segment contact element for surface‐expansion‐dependent contact laws

A class of friction laws depending on the measure of contact surface expansion is defined in the paper within the continuum contact mechanics framework. The nominal and spatial forms of constitutive relations are discussed, including incremental penalty relations. Further, an extended node‐to‐segment element is derived which is capable of treating surface‐expansion‐dependent contact laws in a consistent way. The approach is suitable for any kind of node‐to‐segment contact elements. Finally, the computational efficiency of the extended element as well as other possible approaches are illustrated by numerical examples relevant to metal forming applications. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Learning in dynamic neural networks using signal flow graphs

The paper presents the universal approach to the determination of the sensitivity functions for dynamic neural networks and its application in learning algorithms of adaptive networks. The method is based on the application of signal flow graph and specially defined graph adjoint to it. The method is equally applied to either feed‐forward or recurrent network structures. This paper is mainly concerned with neural network applications of the approach. Different kinds of dynamic neural networks are considered and discussed in the paper: the FIR dynamic multilayer perceptron (MLP), the cascade connection of dynamic MLPs as well as two non‐linear recurrent systems: the dynamic recurrent MLP network and ARMA recurrent network. The rule of sensitivity determination has been applied in practical learning of neural networks. Chosen results of numerical experiments concerning the application of this approach to the learning processes of recurrent neural networks are also given and discussed. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Nanoparticles from polylactide and polyether block copolymers: formation, properties, encapsulation, and release of pyrene--fluorescent model of hydrophobic drug

Polylactide-b-polyglycidol-b-poly(ethylene oxide) terpolymers and their derivatives with carboxyl and 4-(phenylazo)phenyl labels in polyglycidol blocks were used for formation of nanoparticles. Nanoparticles were produced by self assembly of terpolymer macromolecules in water above the critical aggregation concentration and by dialysis of terpolymer solutions in 1,4-dioxane against water. For terpolymers with 4-(phenylazo)phenyl labels critical aggregation concentrations increased after irradiation with UV light (300 < lambda < 400 nm) inducing conformational change of the label from trans- to cis-conformation. Diameters of nanoparticles obtained by self-assembly of macromolecules ranged from 20 to 44 nm. Dialysis yielded nanoparticles with bimodal diameter distribution. One fraction had diameters below 35 nm and diameters of the second fraction were in a range from 350 to 2300 nm, depending on terpolymer structure. Mixtures of terpolymers with poly(L,L-lactide) and poly(D,D-lactide) blocks yielded nanoparticles with diameters from 350 to 440 nm. Pyrene was incorporated into nanoparticles by partition between solution and nanoparticles or directly during particle formation by dialysis. Monitoring of pyrene release from nanoparticles suggests that a fraction of this compound was entrapped into the polylactide core whereas the remaining one was located in the polyether rich shell. The release from shells is faster for nanoparticles made from copolymers with carboxyl labels in polyglycidol blocks.     

FTIR Characterization of Fe3+–OH Groups in Fe–H–BEA Zeolite: Interaction with CO and NO

Fe³⁺–OH groups of a Fe–H–BEA sample prepared by conventional ion-exchange method are characterized by an IR band at 3686–3684 cm^?1. They exhibit a weak acidity: upon low-temperature CO adsorption the O–H stretching modes are blue shifted by 100 cm^?1 and the respective carbonyl adducts are observed at 2158 cm^?1. The Fe³⁺–OH groups are reduced at room temperature by NO to form Fe²⁺–NO species and NO⁺ groups in cationic positions. Desorption of pre-adsorbed NO at temperatures above 373 K regenerates the Fe³⁺–OH groups. The relation of the Fe³⁺–OH species to the so-called α-oxygen is discussed.     

Surface characterization and wear behavior of ion implanted NiTi shape memory alloy

The aim of this study was investigation of changes in the modified near-surface layer on the NiTi shape memory alloy, caused by ion implantation as well as their influence on the mechanical and shape memory properties of this material. Surface of NiTi has been modified by nitrogen ion beam at several fluences 1 × 10¹⁷ cm^?2, 1 × 10¹⁸ cm^?2 and 2 × 10¹⁸ cm^?2 at the energy 50 keV. The effect of implantation parameters on surface characteristics and wear properties was investigated using dry-sliding-wear test, depth sensing indentation test and scanning profilometry method. The experimental results have shown how the ion implantation treatment can change the original surface: reducing Ni content in the surface, increasing the surface hardness (furthermore, the hardness improvement extended to the regions much deeper than the implanted layer), and improving the sliding wear resistance. The experimental results of surface treatment conditions and mechanical properties of the modified NiTi alloys are compared, analyzed and discussed in this paper.     

Dynamic bounds for power and efficiency of non-ideal energy converters under nonlinear transfer laws

We present a thermodynamic approach to simulation and modeling of nonlinear energy converters, in particular radiation engines. Novel results are obtained especially for dynamical engines when the temperature of the propelling medium decreases in time due to a continual decrease of the medium's internal energy caused by the power production. Basic thermodynamic principles determine the converter's efficiency and work limits in terms of the entropy production. The real work is a cumulative effect obtained in a system of a resource fluid, a sequence of engines, and an infinite bath. Nonlinear modeling involves dynamic optimization in which the classical expression for efficiency at maximum power is generalized to endoirreversible machines and nonlinear transfer laws. The primary result is a finite-rate generalization of the classical, reversible work potential (exergy). The generalized work function depends on thermal coordinates and a dissipation index, h, i.e. a Hamiltonian of the minimum entropy production problem. This generalized work function implies stronger bounds on work delivered or supplied than the reversible work potential. The role of the nonlinear analyses and dynamic optimization is shown especially for radiation engines. As an example of the kinetic work limit, generalized exergy of radiation fluid is estimated in terms of finite rates, quantified by the Hamiltonian h.     

Mercury emissions to the atmosphere from anthropogenic sources in Europe in 2000 and their scenarios until 2020

The paper reviews the current state of knowledge regarding European emissions of mercury and presents estimates of European emissions of mercury to the atmosphere from anthropogenic sources for the year 2000. This information was then used as a basis for Hg emission scenario development until the year 2020. Combustion of coal in power plants and residential heat furnaces generates about half of the European emissions being 239 tonnes. The coal combustion is followed by the production of caustic soda with the use of the Hg cell process (17%). Major points of mercury emission generation in the mercury cell process include: by-product hydrogen stream, end box ventilation air, and cell room ventilation air. This technology is now being changed to other caustic soda production technologies and further reduction of Hg emissions is expected in this connection. The third category on the list of the largest Hg emitters in Europe is cement production (about 13%). The largest emissions were estimated for Russia (the European part of the country), contributing with about 27% to the European emissions, followed by Poland, Germany, Spain, Ukraine, France, Italy and the United Kingdom. Most of these countries use coal as a major source of energy in order to meet the electricity and heat demands. In general, countries in the Central and Eastern Europe generated the main part of the European emissions in 2000. Emission reductions between 20% and 80% of the 2000 emission amounts can be obtained by the year 2020, as estimated by various scenarios.