Mixed Logic Dynamical Model of a Hydroelectric Power Plant

In this work we present the model of a hydroelectric power plant in the framework of Mixed Logic Dynamical (MLD) systems. Each outflow unit exhibits a hybrid behavior since flaps, gates and turbines are controlled with logical inputs and the outflow dynamics depend on the logical state of the unit. We show how to derive detailed models of each unit considering not only standard operating conditions, but also emergencies and startup and shut-down procedures

Analysis and Control with Performance of Piecewise Affine and Hybrid Systems

In this paper we investigate some analysis and control problems with performance for discrete-time hybrid systems in the Piece-Wise Affine form. By using arguments from the dissipativity theory for nonlinear systems, we show that H_infinity analysis and synthesis problems can be formulated and solved via Linear Matrix Inequalities that take into account the switching structure of the systems. Moreover, such procedures can be generalized in order to solve both robust control problems and analysis/synthesis with other performance indices like the Generalized H_2 norm

Solid Lipid Nanoparticles as Delivery Systems for Bromocriptine

Purpose. The present investigation describes a formulative study for the development of innovative drug delivery systems for bromocriptine. Methods. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) based on different lipidic components have been produced and characterized. Morphology and dimensional distribution have been investigated by electron microscopy and Photon Correlation Spectroscopy. The antiparkinsonian activities of free bromocriptine and bromocriptine encapsulated in nanostructured lipid carriers were evaluated in 6-hydroxydopamine hemilesioned rats, a model of Parkinson’s disease. Results. Tristearin/tricaprin mixture resulted in nanostructured lipid carriers with stable mean diameter up to 6 months from production. Bromocriptine was encapsulated with high entrapment efficiency in all of the SLN samples, particularly in the case of tristearin/tricaprin mixture. Bromocriptine encapsulation did not change nanoparticle dimensions. In vitro release kinetics based on a dialysis method demonstrated that bromocriptine was released in a prolonged fashion for 48 h. Tristearin/tricaprin nanoparticles better controlled bromocriptine release. Both free and encapsulated bromocriptine reduced the time spent on the blocks (i.e. attenuated akinesia) in the bar test, although the action of encapsulated bromocriptine was more rapid in onset and prolonged. Conclusions. It can be concluded that nanostructured lipid carriers encapsulation may represent an effective strategy to prolong the half-life of bromocriptine