A Bayesian Framework for Modifications of Probabilistic Relational Data

The inherent uncertainty pervasive over the real world often forces business decisions to be made using uncertain data. The conventional relational model does not have the ability to handle uncertain data. In recent years, several approaches have been proposed in the literature for representing uncertain data by extending the relational model, primarily using probability theory. However, the aspect of database modification has been overlooked in these investigations. It is clear that any modification of existing probabilistic data, based on new information, amounts to the revision of one’s belief about real world objects. In this paper, we examine the aspect of belief revision and develop a generalized algorithm that can be used for modification of existing data in a probabilistic relational database

Structural Carbohydrates and Lignifications Associated with Submergence Tolerance in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Role of structural carbohydrate content and lignifications in rice shoot were studied in three indica rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars namely FR13A (tolerant to submergence), IR42 (susceptible to submergence) and Sabita (adapted to medium depth, 0-50 cm stagnant flooding), varying degrees of tolerance to submergence under control and 8 days after submergence conditions. During submergence, Sabita and IR 42 accelerated the rate of stem and leaf elongation more than that of FR 13A. Submergence significantly reduces the cellulose and hemicelluloses content. The decrease was more pronounced in susceptible rice cultivar than that of tolerant rice cultivar. Lignifications’ was monitored by measuring the content of lignin and the activities of two enzymes of the lignin biosynthetic pathway, coniferyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) in rice shoots. Lignin content and PAL and CAD activity was more in susceptible cv. both under control and 8d after submergence. In conclusion submergence induced elongation of rice shoot might decreased the structural carbohydrate level as our experiment showed a significant negative correlation of cellulose and hemicelluloses with plant height but also positively associated with plant survival under submergence. The content of lignin and activities of CAD and PAL showed negative association with shoot elongation, yet the association of these parameters with survival was non-significant

Improvement of Photosynthesis by Sub1 QTL in Rice Under Submergence: Probed by Chlorophyll Fluorescence OJIP Transients

The influence of submergence on the photosynthetic activity in rice plants either possessing or not possessing Sub1 QTL i.e. Swarna and Swarna Sub1 cultivars (cv.) were evaluated under simulated complete submergence. The leaf photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance decreased in both the cv. during the progression of submergence as compared to control plant but significant varietal differences was observed after 1 day (d) of submergence. Submergence also alters the photo-system (PS) II activity, as reflected in a decrease in the values of Fo, Fm and the Fv/Fm ratio and degradation of chlorophyll, more in Swarna than that of Swarna Sub1. Under complete submergence the shape of the OJIP transient also changed in rice leaves with decrease in maximal fluorescence (P=Fm) intensity, resulted lowering of variable fluorescence levels. The decrease was more pronounced in Swarna compared to the Swarna Sub1 cv. Thus, Swarna Sub1 improves photosynthetic activity showing more photosynthetic rate compared to Swarna under submergence because, of less degradation of chlorophyll, higher stomatal conductance, and efficient PS II activity

Reconciling Attribute Values from Multiple Data Sources

Because of the heterogeneous nature of multiple data sources, data integration is often one of the most challenging tasks of today’s information systems. While the existing literature has focused on problems such as schema integration and entity identification, our current study attempts to answer a basic question: When an attribute value for a real-world entity is recorded differently in two databases, how should the “best” value be chosen from the set of possible values? We first show how probabilities for attribute values can be derived, and then propose a framework for deciding the cost-minimizing value based on the total cost of type I, type II, and misrepresentation errors

Effect of zirconia addition on the fatigue behaviour of fine grained alumina Author(s): Basu D; Sarkar BK

The fatigue behaviour of fine grained Al2O3 and ZrO2 toughened Al2O3 (ZTA) compositions with 15 vol% ZrO2 (3 mol% Y2O3 stabilized: 3Y-TZP) have been investigated by using three different techniques, Primarily l-point bending load was employed to generate tension-tension fatigue data under both static and cyclic conditions, The results clear-ly showed that the materials were susceptible to both the static and cyclic fatigue and the time to failure under cyclic loading was considerably shorter than the equivalent static loads. The repeated indentations at the same spot with varying loads showed a typical fatigue behaviour. In addition, both the materials were subjected to the repeated impact cycles at varying subcritical loads simulating impact fatigue, In all the cases typical fatigue curves were obtained having a progressive endurance at subcritical loads having an endurance limit, The fatigue behaviour of Al2O3 was much improved by the addition of 15 vol% 3Y-TZP. having micro-plasticity contributing towards the cyclic fatigue phenomena of these materials

Modalities of NADP-malic enzyme activities under light and darkness indicate its regulation with reference to C4 weed

NADP –ME is the key enzyme for decarboxylation reactions in C4 CO2 concentration pathways. So, Amaranthus viridis has been evaluated with regards to photosynthetic NADP-malic enzyme for its response under light and darkness. Illumination (1000–1200 µEm-2s-1) for 40 minutes under 2 mM bicarbonate (HCO3-) sensitivity increased activity by 1.97 & 3.77-fold over darkness under 4.0 mM and 0.01 mM malate respectively. Limiting (0.01 mM) and saturated (4.0 mM) malate concentration had significant changes in enzyme activities. The different kinetic parameters indicated had the feedback inhibition under illumination. The activity with the inducer (citrate and succinate) and inhibitor (pyruvate and oxalate) was significant with substrate concentrations. Dithiol had reduced the activity by inhibition of the diminishing effect of light activation treatment. Therefore, NADP-ME is stringently regulated by redox changes with illumination as a key factor. Moreover, the pattern of polymorphic gene expression may be supportive in molecular modulation under light/darkness. This study may support the role of NADP-ME as a biomarker for C4 weed species under oxidative stress through light/darkness

Semiconductor-Metal Nano-Floret Hybrid Structures by Self-Processing Synthesis

We present a synthetic strategy that takes advantage of the inherent asymmetry exhibited by semiconductor nanowires prepared by Au-catalyzed chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The metal–semiconductor junction is used for activating etch, deposition, and modification steps localized to the tip area using a wet-chemistry approach. The hybrid nanostructures obtained for the coinage metals Cu, Ag, and Au resemble the morphology of grass flowers, termed here Nanofloret hybrid nanostructures consisting of a high aspect ratio SiGe nanowire (NW) with a metallic nanoshell cap. The synthetic method is used to prepare hybrid nanostructures in one step by triggering a programmable cascade of events that is autonomously executed, termed self-processing synthesis. The synthesis progression was monitored by ex situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM), in situ scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analyses to study the mechanistic reaction details of the various processes taking place during the synthesis. Our results indicate that the synthesis involves distinct processing steps including localized oxide etch, metal deposition, and process termination. Control over the deposition and etching processes is demonstrated by several parameters: (i) etchant concentration (water), (ii) SiGe alloy composition, (iii) reducing agent, (iv) metal redox potential, and (v) addition of surfactants for controlling the deposited metal grain size. The NF structures exhibit broad plasmonic absorption that is utilized for demonstrating surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) of thiophenol monolayer. The new type of nanostructures feature a metallic nanoshell directly coupled to the crystalline semiconductor NW showing broad plasmonic absorption

Mathematical modeling and harmonic analysis of SISFCL

Purpose - A saturated iron core superconducting fault current limiter (SISFCL) has an important role to play in the present-day power system, providing effective protection against electrical faults and thus ensuring an uninterrupted supply of electricity to the consumers. Previous mathematical models developed to describe the SISFCL use a simple flux density-magnetic field intensity curve representing the ferromagnetic core. As the magnetic state of the core affects the efficient working of the device, this paper aims to present a novel approach in the mathematical modeling of the device with the inclusion of hysteresis. Design/methodology/approach - The Jiles-Atherton\u27s hysteresis model is utilized to develop the mathematical model of the limiter. The model is numerically solved using MATLAB. To support the validity of model, finite element model (FEM) with similar specifications was simulated. Findings - Response of the limiter based on the developed mathematical model is in close agreement with the FEM simulations. To illustrate the effect of the hysteresis, the responses are compared by using three different hysteresis characteristics. Harmonic analysis is performed and comparison is carried out utilizing fast Fourier transform and continuous wavelet transform. It is observed that the core with narrower hysteresis characteristic not only produces a better current suppression but also creates a higher voltage drop across the DC source. It also injects more harmonics in the system under fault condition. Originality/value - Inclusion of hysteresis in the mathematical model presents a more realistic approach in the transient analysis of the device. The paper provides an essential insight into the effect of the core hysteresis characteristic on the device performance. © 2016 Emerald Publishing Limited.Embargo Period 12 month