Hybrid nanocomposites for mid-range ballistic protection

This paper focuses on ballistic tests of a new class of composite materials, i.e. hybrid nanocomposites. The two hybrid nanocomposites studied are fiber glass/epoxy/nanoclay and fiber glass/epoxy/nanographite. The fiber glass used is a plain weave 200 g/m², while the nanoclay is an organically modified montmorillonite ceramic (Nanomer I30E). The expandable graphite used to generate the graphene nanosheets was from Graftech (grade 160-80N). Ballistic tests were performed considering two types of ammunition, i.e. 38 caliber and 9 mm full metal jacketed. The results showed that for a 38 revolver projectile a 5 mm thick nanocomposite with additional 5 mm nanoclay layer was able to absorb the energy efficiently. A 9 mm projectile, with speed of 380 m/s, was stopped by a two plates (5 mm each) arrangement with elastic deformation of the second plate less than 18 mm. The energies during the ballistic tests ranged from 316 to 576 J.     

Computation of finite and infinite zeros of linear multivariable systems: a state space approach

An iterative algorithm, developed by the authors to compute the finite zeros of a linear multivariable system (Sebakhy et al. 1983), is extended to compute the infinite zeros of the system as well. The method is simple, efficient and suitable for programming on a digital computer     

Stabilization of controlled positive discrete‐time T‐S fuzzy systems by state feedback control

This paper deals with sufficient conditions of asymptotic stability and stabilization for nonlinear discrete‐time systems represented by a Takagi–Sugeno‐type fuzzy model whose state variables take only nonnegative values at all times t for any nonnegative initial state. This class of systems is called positive systems. The conditions of stabilizability are obtained with state feedback control. This work is based on multiple Lyapunov functions. The results are presented in linear matrix inequalities form. A real plant is studied to illustrate this technique. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Voltage unbalance numerical evaluation and minimization

Among a series of parameters, power quality studies are concerned with voltage unbalances, which represent the voltage magnitude and phase deviation from nominal values. In order to determine the influence of the network's parameters on voltage unbalances, and to provide exact solutions to reduce or even eliminate them, the present study develops and presents two methods. First, a sensitivity analysis is used to determine the influence of each parameter, and then analytical solutions are developed in order to provide the changes needed for correction. The quantification index considered is the symmetrical components method.     

Impact of diesel policy banning on PM levels in urban areas

Increased use of diesel engine in on‐road vehicles presents a serious health concern, particularly in traffic‐congested urban areas. Diesel exhaust contains various gaseous and particulate pollutants, which, at high concentrations, pose adverse health effects. In this respect, various policy measures are being adopted worldwide to curtail emissions from diesel engines. This paper presents an assessment of diesel engine policy banning in the Greater Beirut Area. For this purpose, particulate matter levels in the air were measured after the ban and compared with concentrations reported prior to the ban. Health‐based socio‐economic benefits associated with improvement in air quality were then estimated using the long‐term decrease of particulate matter as an indicator.     

Refusal to eat in the elderly

Refusal to eat by the elderly, and subsequent malnutrition, occurs in both institutional and community settings. Causes include physiologic changes associated with aging, mental disorders such as dementia and depression, and medical, social, and environmental factors. Treatment approaches call for management of these causes while considering the roles that medicine, ethics, and culture play in the process.     

A complication of T-fasteners in percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) placement

Two patients with sinus tracts from retained T-fasteners following PEG tube placement are reported. Both patients had the PEG tubes subsequently removed and presented with purulent discharge and granulations near well-healed gastrostomy sites. The management of this complication and a possible method of prevention are discussed.