Stochastic exponential stability of singular linear systems with Markov jump parameters

This paper deals with exponential stability of discrete-time singular systems with Markov jump parameters. We propose a set of coupled generalized Lyapunov equations (CGLE) that provides sufficient conditions to check this property for this class of systems. A method for solving the obtained CGLE is also presented, based on iterations of standard singular Lyapunov equations. We present also a numerical example to illustrate the effectiveness of the approach we are proposing.

Spin squeezing and entanglement via finite-dimensional discrete phase-space description

We show how mapping techniques inherent to N2-dimensional discrete phase spaces can be used to treat a wide family of spin systems which exhibits squeezing and entanglement effects. This algebraic framework is then applied to the modified Lipkin-Meshkov-Glick (LMG) model in order to obtain the time evolution of certain special parameters related to the Robertson- Schrödinger (RS) uncertainty principle and some particular proposals of entanglement measure based on collective angular-momentum generators. Our results reinforce the connection between both the squeezing and entanglement effects, as well as allow to investigate the basic role of spin correlations through the discrete representatives of quasiprobability distribution functions. Entropy functionals are also discussed in this context. The main sequence correlations → entanglement → squeezing of quantum effects embraces a new set of insights and interpretations in this framework, which represents an effective gain for future researches in different spin systems. © 2013 World Scientific Publishing Company.

Penalty-based nonlinear solver for optimal reactive power dispatch with discrete controls

The optimal reactive dispatch problem is a nonlinear programming problem containing continuous and discrete control variables. Owing to the difficulty caused by discrete variables, this problem is usually solved assuming all variables as continuous variables, therefore the original discrete variables are rounded off to the closest discrete value. This approach may provide solutions far from optimal or even unfeasible solutions. This paper presents an efficient handling of discrete variables by penalty function so that the problem becomes continuous and differentiable. Simulations with the IEEE test systems were performed showing the efficiency of the proposed approach. © 1969-2012 IEEE.

Removal of a combination of endocrine disruptors from aqueous systems by seedlings of radish and ryegrass

Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are widespread in the environment, especially aquatic systems, and cause dangerous effects on wildlife and humans. This work was aimed to assess the capacity of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) and ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) seedlings to tolerate and remove two combinations of EDs containing bisphenol A (BPA), 17α-ethynilestradiol (EE2), and linuron from four aqueous media: distilled water, a solution of natural organic matter (NOM), a lake water and a river water. Seeds of the two species were germinated in each contaminated medium and, at the end of germination, the seedling growth was evaluated by biometric measurements and residual EDs were quantified by chromatographic analysis. Biometric measurements revealed that the phytotoxicity of the two combinations of EDs depended on the medium used. Radish showed a discrete tolerance in distilled water and lake water but was inhibited in the solution of NOM and river water. Ryegrass was negatively affected mainly in river water. The concentration of each ED appeared significantly reduced in all media in the presence of seedlings of both species, but not in the blanks without plants. In 5 days, radish removed up to 88% of BPA, 100% of EE2 and 42% of linuron, and in 6 days ryegrass removed up to 92% of BPA, 74% of EE2 and 16% of linuron. The considerable removal capacity of radish and ryegrass in all media tested encourages the use of phytoremediation to remove EDs from waters. © 2013 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.

Damage detection in nonlinear structures using discrete-time volterra series

Structural damage identification is basically a nonlinear phenomenon; however, nonlinear procedures are not used currently in practical applications due to the complexity and difficulty for implementation of such techniques. Therefore, the development of techniques that consider the nonlinear behavior of structures for damage detection is a research of major importance since nonlinear dynamical effects can be erroneously treated as damage in the structure by classical metrics. This paper proposes the discrete-time Volterra series for modeling the nonlinear convolution between the input and output signals in a benchmark nonlinear system. The prediction error of the model in an unknown structural condition is compared with the values of the reference structure in healthy condition for evaluating the method of damage detection. Since the Volterra series separate the response of the system in linear and nonlinear contributions, these indexes are used to show the importance of considering the nonlinear behavior of the structure. The paper concludes pointing out the main advantages and drawbacks of this damage detection methodology. © (2013) Trans Tech Publications.

Event activity dependence of (nS) production in=5.02 TeV pPb and=2.76 TeV pp collisions

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq)

Perspectives on the use of lakes and ponds as model systems for macroecological research

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq)

Identification of nonlinear structures using discrete-time Volterra series

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)

Discrete-time sliding mode control for uncertain networked system subject to time delay

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq)

Non-parametric identification of a non-linear buckled beam using discrete-time Volterra Series

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)