bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Slow and temperature‐mediated pathogen adaptation to a nonspecific fungicide in agricultural ecosystem
Authors: He Meng‐Han , Li Dong‐Liang , Zhu Wen , Wu E‐Jiao , Yang Li‐Na , Wang Yan‐Ping , Waheed Abdul , Zhan Jiasui
Published: August 2017

The spread of antimicrobial resistance and global change in air temperature represent two major phenomena that are exerting a disastrous impact on natural and social issues but investigation of the interaction between these phenomena in an evolutionary context is limited. In this study, a statistical genetic approach was used to investigate the evolution of antimicrobial resistance in agricultural ecosystem and its association with local air temperature, precipitation, and UV radiation. We found no resistance to mancozeb, a nonspecific fungicide widely used in agriculture for more than half a century, in 215 Alternaria alternata isolates sampled from geographic locations along a climatic gradient and cropping system representing diverse ecotypes in China, consistent with low resistance risk in many nonspecific fungicides. Genetic variance accounts for ~35% of phenotypic variation, while genotype–environment interaction is negligible, suggesting that heritability plays a more important role in the evolution of resistance to mancozeb in plant pathogens than phenotypic plasticity. We also found that tolerance to mancozeb in agricultural ecosystem is under constraining selection and significantly associated with local air temperature, possibly resulting from a pleiotropic effect of resistance with thermal and other ecological adaptations. The implication of these results for fungicide and other antimicrobial management in the context of global warming is discussed.
Outcome of horses undergoing navicular bursotomy for the treatment of contaminated or septic navicular bursitis: 19 cases (2002–2016)
Authors: Suarez‐Fuentes D. G. , Caston S. S. , Tatarniuk D. M. , Kersh K. D. , Ferrero N. R.
Published: August 2017

Background

Contaminated or septic navicular bursitis has been reported to have a guarded prognosis after surgical treatment with navicular bursotomy only. In our experience, the use of navicular bursotomy for the treatment of this disease in combination with systemic and local delivery of antimicrobials can provide a good prognosis, even in horses with chronic disease.

Objective

To report the outcome of horses undergoing navicular bursotomy for the treatment of contaminated or septic navicular bursitis.

Study design

Descriptive case series.

Methods

Navicular bursotomy was performed in combination with systemic and local antimicrobial therapies. Medical records (2002–2016) were reviewed. Follow‐up information was obtained from owners or referring veterinarians. Horse outcome was divided into two groups. A successful outcome (Group 1) was assigned to horses that were able to return to the same level of use or performance as before contamination/infection. A satisfactory outcome (Group 2) was assigned to horses that survived but did not return to their previous function or level of performance.

Results

All horses survived to hospital discharge. Follow‐up was obtained from 4 months to 12.75 years after surgery. Sixteen horses were able to return to their previous level of use (84.2%) and three horses were able to return to a lower level of performance or were pasture sound (15.8%). All 19 owners were satisfied with the outcome.

Main limitations

Small sample size and retrospective nature of the study. Follow‐up was limited to telephone contact with owners and referring veterinarians, and there is potential for recall bias.

Conclusions

Navicular bursotomy in combination with systemic and local antimicrobial therapies is an effective treatment for contaminated or septic navicular bursitis. The success rate in this population makes navicular bursotomy worthy of consideration in cases of contaminated or septic navicular bursitis, especially with chronicity and/or where equipment or expertise for bursoscopy is unavailable.
High‐resolution studies of hydride transfer in the ferredoxin:NADP+ reductase superfamily
Authors: Kean Kelsey M. , Carpenter Russell A. , Pandini Vittorio , Zanetti Giuliana , Hall Andrea R. , Faber Rick , Aliverti Alessandro , Karplus P. Andrew
Published: August 2017

Ferredoxin: NADP+ reductase (FNR) is an FAD‐containing enzyme best known for catalysing the transfer of electrons from ferredoxin (Fd) to NADP+ to make NADPH during photosynthesis. It is also the prototype for a broad enzyme superfamily, including the NADPH oxidases (NOXs) that all catalyse similar FAD‐enabled electron transfers between NAD(P)H and one‐electron carriers. Here, we define further mechanistic details of the NAD(P)H ⇌ FAD hydride‐transfer step of the reaction based on spectroscopic studies and high‐resolution (~ 1.5 Å) crystallographic views of the nicotinamide–flavin interaction in crystals of corn root FNR Tyr316Ser and Tyr316Ala variants soaked with either nicotinamide, NADP+, or NADPH. The spectra obtained from FNR crystal complexes match those seen in solution and the complexes reveal active site packing interactions and patterns of covalent distortion of the FAD that imply significant active site compression that would favour catalysis. Furthermore, anisotropic B‐factors show that the mobility of the C4 atom of the nicotinamide in the FNR:NADP+ complex has a directionality matching that expected for boat‐like excursions of the nicotinamide ring thought to enhance hydride transfer. Arguments are made for the relevance of this binding mode to catalysis, and specific consideration is given to how the results extrapolate to provide insight to structure‐function relations for the membrane‐bound NOX enzymes for which little structural information has been available.

Databases

Structural data are available in the PDB database under the accession numbers 3LO8 (wild‐type), 5VW4 [Y316S:nicotinamide (P3221)], 5VW9 [Y316S:nicotinamide (P3121)], 5VW3 [Y316S:NADP+ (P3221)], 5VW8 [Y316S:NADP+ (P3121)], 5VW2 [Y316S:NADPH (P3221)], 5VW5 [Y316A:nicotinamide (P3221)], 5VW6 [Y316A:NADP+ (P3221)], 5VW7 [Y316A:NADPH (P3221)], 5VWA [Y316F (P3221)], and 5VWB [Y316F:NADP+ (P3121)]. Enzyme Commission number: ferredoxin:NADP+ reductase – E C1.18.1.2.
Patients’ views on the use of an Option Grid for knee osteoarthritis in physiotherapy clinical encounters: An interview study
Authors: Kinsey Katharine , Firth Jill , Elwyn Glyn , Edwards Adrian , Brain Katherine , Marrin Katy , Nye Alan , Wood Fiona
Published: August 2017

Background

Patient decision support tools have been developed as a means of providing accurate and accessible information in order for patients to make informed decisions about their care. Option Grids™ are a type of decision support tool specifically designed to be used during clinical encounters.

Objective

To explore patients’ views of the Option Grid encounter tool used in clinical consultations with physiotherapists, in comparison with usual care, within a patient population who are likely to be disadvantaged by age and low health literacy.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews with 72 patients (36 who had been given an Option Grid in their consultation and 36 who had not). Thematic analysis explored patients’ understanding of treatment options, perceptions of involvement, and readability and utility of the Option Grid.

Results

Interviews suggested that the Option Grid facilitated more detailed discussion about the risks and benefits of a wider range of treatment options for osteoarthritis of the knee. Participants indicated that the Option Grid was clear and aided their understanding of a structured progression of the options as their condition advanced, although it was not clear whether the Option Grid facilitated greater engagement in shared decision making.

Discussion and conclusion

The Option Grid for osteoarthritis of the knee was well received by patient participants who reported that it helped them to understand their options, and made the notion of choice explicit. Use of Option Grids should be considered within routine consultations.
Risk stratification in the investigation of pulmonary nodules in a high‐risk cohort: positron emission tomography/computed tomography outperforms clinical risk prediction algorithms
Authors: Gibson Glenna , Kumar Aravind Ravi , Steinke Karin , Bashirzadeh Farzad , Roach Rebecca , Windsor Morgan , Ware Robert , Fielding David
Published: August 2017

Background

Clinical prediction models and 18‐fluorine‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F‐FDG‐PET/CT) are used for the assessment of solitary pulmonary nodules (SPN); however, a biopsy is still required before treatment, which carries risk.

Aim

To determine the combined predictive benefit of one such model combined with modern PET/CT data to improve decision‐making about biopsy prior to treatment and possibly reduce costs.

Methods

Patients with a SPN undergoing 18F‐FDG‐PET/CT from January 2011 to December 2012 were retrospectively identified; 143 patients met inclusion criteria. PET/CT studies were rated (5‐point visual scale), and CT characteristics were determined. Tissue was obtained by endobronchial ultrasonography with guide sheath (EBUS‐GS), CT‐guided biopsy and/or surgery. EBUS‐transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) was used instead of nodule biopsy if there were PET‐positive sub‐centimetre lymph nodes.

Results

The prediction model yielded an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC‐ROC) of 64% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.55–0.75). PET/CT increased this to 75% (95% CI 0.65–0.84). The 11% improvement is statistically significant. PET/CT score was the best single predictor for malignancy. A PET score of 1–2 had a specificity of 100% (CI 0.73–1.0), whereas a score of 4–5 had a sensitivity of only 76% (CI 0.68–0.84). No significant difference in clinical prediction scores between groups was noted. PET/CT showed the greatest benefit in true negatives and in detecting small mediastinal lymph nodes to allow EBUS‐TBNA with a higher diagnostic rate. Cost analysis did not support a policy of resection‐without‐tissue diagnosis.

Conclusion

PET/CT improves the clinical prediction of SPN, but its greatest use is in proving benignity. High PET scores had high false positive rates and did not add to clinical prediction. PET should be incorporated early in decision‐making to allow for more effective biopsy strategies.
Prokineticin 1 is up‐regulated by insulin in decidualizing human endometrial stromal cells
Authors: Ujvari Dorina , Jakson Ivika , Oldmark Cecilia , Attarha Sanaz , Alkasalias Twana , Salamon Daniel , Gidlöf Sebastian , Hirschberg Angelica Lindén
Published: August 2017

Prokineticin 1 (PROK1), a hypoxia‐regulated angiogenic factor, has emerged as a crucial regulator of embryo implantation and placentation. Dysregulation of PROK1 has been linked to recurrent pregnancy loss, pre‐eclampsia, foetal growth restriction and preterm birth. These pregnancy complications are common in women with obesity and polycystic ovary syndrome, i.e. conditions associated with insulin resistance and compensatory hyperinsulinaemia. We investigated the effect of insulin on PROK1 expression during in vitro decidualization. Endometrial stromal cells were isolated from six healthy, regularly menstruating women and decidualized in vitro. Insulin induced a significant dose‐dependent up‐regulation of PROK1 on both mRNA and protein level in decidualizing endometrial stromal cells. This up‐regulation was mediated by hypoxia‐inducible factor 1‐alpha (HIF1α) via the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) pathway. Furthermore, we demonstrated that PROK1 did not affect the viability, but significantly inhibited the migration of endometrial stromal cells and the migratory and invasive capacity of trophoblast cell lines. This in vitro study provides new insights into the regulation of PROK1 by insulin in human decidualizing endometrial stromal cells, the action of PROK1 on migration of endometrial stromal cells, as well as migration and invasion of trophoblasts. We speculate that hyperinsulinaemia may be involved in the mechanisms by which PROK1 is linked to placenta‐related pregnancy complications.
Alcohol Use Among Concerned Partners of Heavy Drinking Service Members and Veterans
Authors: Rodriguez Lindsey M. , Osilla Karen Chan , Trail Thomas E. , Gore Kristie L. , Pedersen Eric R.
Published: August 2017

Heavy drinking in relationships is complex and we focus on an understudied sample of concerned partners (CPs) worried about their U.S. service member/veteran partner's drinking. We evaluated the link between CP drinking and their own mental health, and how CP drinking moderated the efficacy of a web‐based intervention designed to address CPs' mental health and communication. CPs (N = 234) were randomly assigned to intervention or control and completed assessments at baseline and 5 months later. CP drinking was associated with greater CP depression, anxiety, and anger independent of partner drinking. Moreover, the intervention was more efficacious in reducing depression for heavy drinking CPs. CPs are often an overlooked population and resources to help support them are needed.
Prognostic value of the immunohistochemical detection of cancer‐associated fibroblasts in oral cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Dourado Mauricio Rocha , Guerra Eliete N. S. , Salo Tuula , Lambert Daniel W. , Coletta Ricardo D.
Published: August 2017

Aim

To perform a meta‐analysis to assess whether the presence of cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAF) is a prognostic marker of oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC).

Methods

Immunohistochemical studies assessing the prognostic relevance of CAF (alpha smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA)‐positive fibroblasts) in patients with OSCC were systematically reviewed using Cochrane, Lilacs, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The outcomes assessed were overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS). The meta‐analysis was performed using the random‐ and fixed‐effects model with adjusted hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) as effect measures. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Meta‐Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument (MAStARI) tool, and the evidence quality was assessed by the Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system.

Results

The presence of high levels of CAF in the stroma of OSCC predicted shortened time to DFS (HR = 3.32, 95% CI: 2.09‐5.26, P < .00001) and an overall decrease in survival (HR: 2.16, 95% CI: 1.60‐2.92, P < .00001). Moreover, high presence of CAF was frequently reported in association with parameters that worsen the prognosis in OSCC, including advanced disease stage (TNM classification), recurrence, tumor grade, depth of invasion, vascular, lymphatic and neural invasion, and extranodal metastatic spread.

Conclusion

The presence of CAF, as assessed by α‐SMA‐positive fibroblasts in the stroma, indicates poor prognosis in patients with OSCC.
Nutrition behaviour change communication causes sustained effects on IYCN knowledge in two cluster‐randomised trials in Bangladesh
Authors: Hoddinott John , Ahmed Akhter , Karachiwalla Naureen I. , Roy Shalini
Published: August 2017

Behaviour change communication (BCC) can improve infant and young child nutrition (IYCN) knowledge, practices, and health outcomes. However, few studies have examined whether the improved knowledge persists after BCC activities end. This paper assesses the effect of nutrition sensitive social protection interventions on IYCN knowledge in rural Bangladesh, both during and after intervention activities. We use data from two, 2‐year, cluster randomised control trials that included nutrition BCC in some treatment arms. These data were collected at intervention baseline, midline, and endline, and 6–10 months after the intervention ended. We analyse data on IYCN knowledge from the same 2,341 women over these 4 survey rounds. We construct a number correct score on 18 IYCN knowledge questions and assess whether the impact of the BCC changes over time for the different treatment groups. Effects are estimated using ordinary least squares accounting for the clustered design of the study. There are 3 main findings: First, the BCC improves IYCN knowledge substantially in the 1st year of the intervention; participants correctly answer 3.0–3.2 more questions (36% more) compared to the non‐BCC groups. Second, the increase in knowledge between the 1st and 2nd year was smaller, an additional 0.7–0.9 correct answers. Third, knowledge persists; there are no significant decreases in IYCN knowledge 6–10 months after nutrition BCC activities ended.
The TNL gene Rdr1 confers broad‐spectrum resistance to Diplocarpon rosae
Authors: Menz Ina , Straube Jannis , Linde Marcus , Debener Thomas
Published: August 2017

Black spot disease, which is caused by the ascomycete Diplocarpon rosae, is the most severe disease in field‐grown roses in temperate regions and has been distributed worldwide, probably together with commercial cultivars. Here, we present data indicating that muRdr1A is the active Rdr1 gene, a single‐dominant TIR‐NBS‐LRR (Toll/interleukin‐1 receptor‐nucleotide binding site‐leucine rich repeat) (TNL)‐type resistance gene against black spot disease, which acts against a broad range of pathogenic isolates independent of the genetic background of the host genotype. Molecular analyses revealed that, compared with the original donor genotype, the multiple integrations that are found in the primary transgenic clone segregate into different integration patterns in its sexual progeny and do not show any sign of overexpression. Rdr1 provides resistance to 13 different single‐spore isolates belonging to six different races and broad field mixtures of conidia; thus far, Rdr1 is only overcome by two races. The expression of muRdr1A, the active Rdr1 gene, leads to interaction patterns that are identical in the transgenic clones and the non‐transgenic original donor genotype. This finding indicates that the interacting avirulence (Avr) factor on the pathogen side must be widespread among the pathogen populations and may have a central function in the rose–black spot interaction. Therefore, the Rdr1 gene, pyramided with only a few other R genes by sexual crosses, might be useful for breeding roses that are resistant to black spot because the spread of new pathogenic races of the fungus appears to be slow.
Genomic analyses suggest parallel ecological divergence in Heliosperma pusillum (Caryophyllaceae)
Authors: Trucchi Emiliano , Frajman Božo , Haverkamp Thomas H. A. , Schönswetter Peter , Paun Ovidiu
Published: August 2017

The mosaic distribution of interbreeding taxa with contrasting ecology and morphology offers an opportunity to study microevolutionary dynamics during ecological divergence. We investigate here the evolutionary history of an alpine and a montane ecotype of Heliosperma pusillum (Caryophyllaceae) in the south‐eastern Alps.

From six pairs of geographically close populations of the two ecotypes (120 individuals) we obtained a high‐coverage restriction site associated DNA sequencing (RADseq) dataset that was used for demographic inference to test the hypothesis of parallel evolution of the two ecotypes.

The data are consistent with repeated ecological divergence in H. pusillum, uncovering up to five polytopic origins of one ecotype from the other. A complex evolutionary history is evidenced, with local isolation‐with‐migration in two population pairs and intra‐ecotype migration in two others. In all cases, the time of divergence or secondary contact was inferred as postglacial. A metagenomic analysis on exogenous contaminant RAD sequences suggests divergent microbial communities between the ecotypes.

The lack of shared genomic regions of high divergence across population pairs illustrates the action of drift and/or local selection in shaping genetic divergence across repeated cases of ecological divergence.
Reviewing the relationship between OSA and cognition: Where do we go from here?
Authors: Bucks Romola S. , Olaithe Michelle , Rosenzweig Ivana , Morrell Mary J.
Published: August 2017

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a disorder of breathing during sleep resulting in temporary reduction in cerebral oxygenation and sleep disruption. A growing body of research reveals a relatively consistent pattern of deficits in cognition, particularly in attention, episodic memory, and executive function, which are partially remediated by treatment.

This is where the consensus ends. Despite a number of competing explanations regarding how OSA affects cognition, reliable evidence is hard to find, which may relate to the many, common conditions co‐morbid with OSA or to the methodological challenges in this field. This paper reviews the evidence for cognitive impairment in OSA, the proposed models of cognitive harm, the impact of co‐morbidities and the many methodological and theoretical challenges of exploring the effect of OSA on cognition.

To overcome some of these challenges, we end by proposing a number of future directions for the field, including suggesting some core design elements for future studies.
Independent Effects of Mental Disorders on Suicidal Behavior in the Community
Authors: Batterham Philip J. , Calear Alison L. , Christensen Helen , Carragher Natacha , Sunderland Matthew
Published: August 2017

This study assessed the independent contributions of nine common mental disorders on suicide ideation and suicide attempt. A community‐based survey of Australian adults (N = 3,175) was conducted to identify common mental disorders associated with recent suicide attempt. Nine disorders were assessed using DSM‐5 clinical criteria. Logistic regression models indicated that all disorders were significantly and independently associated with suicide ideation. However, only obsessive‐compulsive disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder were significantly associated with suicide attempt among participants with ideation, independently of other disorders (OR = 2.0 for both). Increasing comorbidity had a significant monotonic association with suicide ideation but not attempts.
V4PCS: Volumetric 4PCS Algorithm for Global Registration
Authors: Huang Jida , Kwok Tsz-Ho , Zhou Chi
Published: August 2017

With the advances in three-dimensional (3D) scanning and sensing technologies, massive human-related data are now available and create many applications in data-driven design. Similarity identification is one of the basic problems in data-driven design and can facilitate many engineering applications and product paradigm such as quality control and mass customization. Therefore, reusing information can create unprecedented opportunities in advancing the theory, method, and practice of product design. To enable information reuse, different models must be aligned so that their similarity can be identified. This alignment is commonly known as the global registration that finds an optimal rigid transformation to align two 3D shapes (scene and model) without any assumptions on their initial positions. The Super 4-Points Congruent Sets (S4PCS) is a popular algorithm used for this shape registration. While S4PCS performs the registration using a set of four coplanar points, we find that incorporating the volumetric information of the models can improve the robustness and the efficiency of the algorithm, which are particularly important for mass customization. In this paper, we propose a novel algorithm, Volumetric 4PCS (V4PCS), to extend the four coplanar points to noncoplanar ones for global registration, and theoretically demonstrate the computational complexity is significantly reduced. Experimental tests are conducted on several models such as tooth aligner and hearing aid to compare with S4PCS. The experimental results show that the proposed V4PCS can achieve a maximum of 20 times speedup and can successfully compute the valid transformation with very limited number of sample points. An application of the proposed method in mass customization is also investigated.
Concept Clustering in Design Teams: A Comparison of Human and Machine Clustering
Authors: Zhang Chengwei , Kwon Youngwook Paul , Kramer Julia , Kim Euiyoung , Agogino Alice M.
Published: August 2017

Concept clustering is an important element of the product development process. The process of reviewing multiple concepts provides a means of communicating concepts developed by individual team members and by the team as a whole. Clustering, however, can also require arduous iterations and the resulting clusters may not always be useful to the team. In this paper, we present a machine learning approach on natural language descriptions of concepts that enables an automatic means of clustering. Using data from over 1000 concepts generated by student teams in a graduate new product development class, we provide a comparison between the concept clustering performed manually by the student teams and the work automated by a machine learning algorithm. The goal of our machine learning tool is to support design teams in identifying possible areas of “over-clustering” and/or “under-clustering” in order to enhance divergent concept generation processes.
Thermal Performance and Efficiency of a Mineral Oil Immersed Server Over Varied Environmental Operating Conditions
Authors: Eiland Richard , Edward Fernandes John , Vallejo Marianna , Siddarth Ashwin , Agonafer Dereje , Mulay Verrendra
Published: August 2017

Complete immersion of servers in dielectric mineral oil has recently become a promising technique for minimizing cooling energy consumption in data centers. However, a lack of sufficient published data and long-term documentation of oil immersion cooling performance make most data center operators hesitant to apply these approaches to their mission critical facilities. In this study, a single server was fully submerged horizontally in mineral oil. Experiments were conducted to observe the effects of varying the volumetric flow rate and oil inlet temperature on thermal performance and power consumption of the server. Specifically, temperature measurements of the central processing units (CPUs), motherboard (MB) components, and bulk fluid were recorded at steady-state conditions. These results provide an initial bounding envelope of environmental conditions suitable for an oil immersion data center. Comparing with results from baseline tests performed with traditional air cooling, the technology shows a 34.4% reduction in the thermal resistance of the system. Overall, the cooling loop was able to achieve partial power usage effectiveness (pPUECooling) values as low as 1.03. This server level study provides a preview of possible facility energy savings by utilizing high temperature, low flow rate oil for cooling. A discussion on additional opportunities for optimization of information technology (IT) hardware and implementation of oil cooling is also included.
A Note on Observer-Based Frequency Control for a Class of Systems Described by Uncertain Models
Authors: Popescu Nirvana , Ivanescu Mircea , Popescu Decebal
Published: August 2017

This paper focuses on the robust control problem for a class of linear uncertain systems by using frequency techniques. The controller/observer dynamics are analyzed using Lyapunov techniques, in terms of the state and state estimation error, for an uncertainty constrained over a specified range. A Popov-type criterion, a “circle criterion,” defined as the Popov frequency condition and the uncertainty circle, is formulated. It is proved that the closed-loop system is robustly stable if the Popov condition holds at all frequencies. The proposed method is validated against a robust controller for a balancing robot (BR).
Heat Transfer and Thermodynamic Analyses of a Novel Solid–Gas Thermochemical Strontium Chloride–Ammonia Thermal Energy Storage System
Authors: Al-Zareer Maan , Dincer Ibrahim , Rosen Marc A.
Published: August 2017

A novel solid–gas thermochemical sorption thermal energy storage (TES) system for solar heating and cooling applications operating on four steady-state flow devices and with two transient storage tanks is proposed. The TES system stores solar or waste thermal energy in the form of chemical bonds as the working gas is desorbed from the solid. Strontium chloride–ammonia is the working solid–gas couple in the thermochemical sorption TES system. Strontium chloride–ammonia has a moderate working temperature range that is appropriate for building heating and cooling applications. The steady-state devices in the system are simulated using Aspen Plus, and the two transient components are simulated using the ENGINEERING EQUATION SOLVER (EES) package. Multiple cases are examined of different heat and cold production temperatures for both heating and cooling applications for a constant thermal energy input temperature. Energy and exergy analyses are performed on the system for all simulated cases. The maximum energy and exergy efficiencies for heating applications are 65.4% and 50.8%, respectively, when the heat is generated at a temperature of 87 °C. The maximum energy and exergy efficiencies for cooling applications are 29.3% when the cold production temperature is 0 °C and 22.9% when it is −35 °C, respectively. The maximum heat produced per mass of the ammonia produced, for 100% conversion of the reactants in the chemical reaction, is 2010 kJ/kg at a heat production temperature of 87 °C, and the maximum cold energy generated is 902 kJ/kg at a temperature of 0 °C. Finally, the system is modified to operate as a heat pump, and energy and exergy analyses are performed on the thermochemical heat pump. It is found that the maximum energy and exergy coefficients of performance (COP) achieved by upgrading heat from 87 °C to 96 °C are 1.4 and 3.6, respectively, and the maximum energy and exergy efficiencies are 56.4% and 79.0%, respectively.
Numerical Investigation of Entropy Generation in Stratified Thermal Stores
Authors: Njoku Howard O. , Ekechukwu Onyemaechi V. , Onyegegbu Samuel O.
Published: August 2017

This paper investigates the nature of entropy generation in stratified sensible thermal energy stores (SSTES) during charging using a dimensionless axisymmetric numerical model of an SSTES. Time-varying dimensionless entropy generation rates and the cumulative entropy generation in SSTES were determined from finite volume computations. The aspect ratios (AR), Peclet numbers (PeD), and Richardson numbers (Ri), for the stores considered were within the ranges 1≤AR≤4, 5×103≤PeD≤100×103, and 10≤Ri≤104, respectively. Using the Bejan number (Be), the total entropy generation was shown to be almost entirely due to thermal effects in the SSTES. The Be is practically unity for most of the SSTES' charging duration. The contributions of radial thermal gradients to the thermal entropy generation were further shown to be largely negligible in comparison to the contributions of axial thermal gradients, except at low Ri. Entropy generation numbers, Ns, in the SSTES were also computed and found to increase with decreasing AR and PeD and with increasing Ri. PeD was found to have the most significant influence on Ns. Based on this axisymmetric analyses of time-varying entropy generation in SSTES, estimates have been obtained of (1) the relative significance of radial effects on entropy generation within SSTES and (2) the relative significance of viscous shear entropy generation mechanisms within SSTES.
Optimal Generation Maintenance Schedule for Bundled Wind–Thermal Generation System
Authors: Ma Yinghao , Xie Kaigui , Dong Jizhe , Tai Heng–Ming , Hu Bo
Published: August 2017

Bundled wind–thermal generation system (BWTGS) is an effective way to utilize remote large–scale wind power. The optimal generation maintenance schedule (GMS) for BWTGS is not only helpful to improve the system reliability level but also useful to enhance the system economic efficiency and extend the lifetime of components. This paper presents a model to optimize the GMS for BWTGS. The probabilistic production simulation technique is employed to calculate the system costs, and a sequential probabilistic method is utilized to capture the sequential and stochastic nature of wind power. A hybrid optimization algorithm (HOA) based on the simulated annealing (SA) and multipopulation parallel genetic algorithm (GA) is developed to solve the proposed model. Case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of this proposed model. Effects of the reliability deterioration of thermal generating units (TGUs) and the pattern of BWTGS transmission power are also investigated.
Numerical Investigation of Natural Convection Heat Transfer From an Array of Horizontal Fins in Non-Newtonian Power-Law Fluids
Authors: Mulamootil Jacob K. , Dash Sukanta K.
Published: August 2017

Natural convection heat transfer from an array of horizontal rectangular fins on a vertical flat plate in non-Newtonian power-law fluids has been studied. The underlying physical principles affecting heat transfer were studied using comprehensive solutions obtained from numerical investigations. Heat transfer to the power-law fluid was found to depend on the fluid rheology (power-law index) and significantly on the geometric parameters (interfin spacing, fin length) as well. The dependence was quantified using the Nusselt number (Nu) and fin effectiveness (Q/Q0). The present study shows that compared to a fin analyzed in isolation, the spatial arrangement of multiple fins relative to one another in an array does have a significant effect on the flow field around subsequent fins in power-law fluids. Therefore, the average heat transfer coefficient of the natural convection system is affected significantly. The variation of Nu with the dimensionless fin length (l/L), dimensionless interfin spacing (S/L), and fluid power-law index (n) was plotted. The dependence was found to be counter intuitive to expectations based on studies for natural convection from vertical flat plates to power-law fluids. In the present study involving fins, shear-thinning fluids (n < 1) show a decrease in heat transfer and shear-thickening fluids (n > 1) show an enhancement in heat transfer for higher l/L values. The results of the study may be useful in the design of natural convection systems that employ power-law fluids to enhance or control heat transfer.
Assessment of Heat Transfer Enhancement Using Metallic Porous Foam Configurations in Laminar Slot Jet Impingement: An Experimental Study
Authors: Kumar Chinige Sampath , Pattamatta Arvind
Published: August 2017

An experimental study using the liquid crystal thermography technique is conducted to investigate the convective heat transfer performance in jet impingement cooling using various porous media configurations. Aluminum porous foams are used in the present study. Four impinging jet configurations are considered: jet impingement (1) without porous media, (2) over the porous heat sink, (3) with porous obstacle case, and (4) through porous passage. These configurations are evaluated on the basis of the convective heat transfer enhancement for two different Reynolds numbers of 400 and 700. Jet impingement with porous heat sink showed deterioration in the average Nusselt number by 9.95% and 18.04% compared to jet impingement without porous media configuration for Reynolds numbers of 400 and 700, respectively. Jet impingement with porous obstacles showed a very negligible enhancement in the average Nusselt number by 3.48% and 2.73% for Reynolds numbers of 400 and 700, respectively. However, jet impingement through porous passage configuration showed a maximum enhancement in the average Nusselt number by 52.71% and 74.68% and stagnation Nusselt numbers by 58.08% and 53.80% compared to the jet impingement without porous medium for Reynolds numbers of 400 and 700, respectively. Within the porous properties considered, it is observed that by decreasing the permeability and porosity the convective heat transfer performance tends to increase.
Effect of Nanoparticle Coating on the Performance of a Miniature Loop Heat Pipe for Electronics Cooling Applications
Authors: Tharayil Trijo , Godson Asirvatham Lazarus , Rajesh S. , Wongwises Somchai
Published: August 2017

The effect of nanoparticle coating on the performance of a miniature loop heat pipe (mLHP) is experimentally investigated for heat inputs of 20–380 W using distilled water as the working fluid. Applications include the cooling of electronic devices such as circuit breaker in low voltage switch board and insulated gate bipolar transistor. Physical vapor deposition method is used to coat the nanoparticles on the evaporator surface for different coating thicknesses of 100 nm, 200 nm, 300 nm, 400 nm, and 500 nm, respectively. An optimum filling ratio (FR) of 30% is chosen for the analysis. Experimental findings show that the nanoparticle coating gives a remarkable improvement in heat transfer of the heat pipe. An average reduction of 6.7%, 11.9%, 17.2%, and 22.6% in thermal resistance is observed with coating thicknesses of 100 nm, 200 nm, 300 nm, and 400 nm, respectively. Similarly, enhancements in evaporator heat transfer coefficients of 47%, 63.5%, 73.5%, and 86% are noted for the same coating thicknesses, respectively. Evaporator wall temperature decreased by 15.4 °C for 380 W with a coating thickness of 400 nm. The repeatability test ensures the repeatability of experiments and the stability of coatings in the long run.
Noninvasive Assessment of Biochemical and Mechanical Properties of Lumbar Discs Through Quantitative Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Asymptomatic Volunteers
Authors: Foltz Mary H. , Kage Craig C. , Johnson Casey P. , Ellingson Arin M.
Published: August 2017

Intervertebral disc degeneration is a prevalent phenomenon associated with back pain. It is of critical clinical interest to discriminate disc health and identify early stages of degeneration. Traditional clinical T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), assessed using the Pfirrmann classification system, is subjective and fails to adequately capture initial degenerative changes. Emerging quantitative MRI techniques offer a solution. Specifically, T2* mapping images water mobility in the macromolecular network, and our preliminary ex vivo work shows high predictability of the disc's glycosaminoglycan content (s-GAG) and residual mechanics. The present study expands upon this work to predict the biochemical and biomechanical properties in vivo and assess their relationship with both age and Pfirrmann grade. Eleven asymptomatic subjects (range: 18–62 yrs) were enrolled and imaged using a 3T MRI scanner. T2-weighted images (Pfirrmann grade) and quantitative T2* maps (predict s-GAG and residual stress) were acquired. Surface maps based on the distribution of these properties were generated and integrated to quantify the surface volume. Correlational analyses were conducted to establish the relationship between each metric of disc health derived from the quantitative T2* maps with both age and Pfirrmann grade, where an inverse trend was observed. Furthermore, the nucleus pulposus (NP) signal in conjunction with volumetric surface maps provided the ability to discern differences during initial stages of disc degeneration. This study highlights the ability of T2* mapping to noninvasively assess the s-GAG content, residual stress, and distributions throughout the entire disc, which may provide a powerful diagnostic tool for disc health assessment.
Transient Response of MDOF Systems With Inerters to Nonstationary Stochastic Excitation
Authors: Masri Sami F. , Caffrey John P. , Li Hui
Published: August 2017

Explicit, closed-form, exact analytical expressions are derived for the covariance kernels of a multi degrees-of-freedom (MDOF) system with arbitrary amounts of viscous damping (not necessarily proportional-type), that is equipped with one or more auxiliary mass damper-inerters placed at arbitrary location(s) within the system. The “inerter” is a device that imparts additional inertia to the vibration damper, hence magnifying its effectiveness without a significant damper mass addition. The MDOF system is subjected to nonstationary stochastic excitation consisting of modulated white noise. Results of the analysis are used to determine the dependence of the time-varying mean-square response of the primary MDOF system on the key system parameters such as primary system damping, auxiliary damper mass ratio, location of the damper-inerter, inerter mass ratio, inerter node choices, tuning of the coupling between the damper-inerter and the primary system, and the excitation envelope function. Results of the analysis are used to determine the dependence of the peak transient mean-square response of the system on the damper/inerter tuning parameters, and the shape of the deterministic intensity function. It is shown that, under favorable dynamic environments, a properly designed auxiliary damper, encompassing an inerter with a sizable mass ratio, can significantly attenuate the response of the primary system to broad band excitations; however, the dimensionless “rise-time” of the nonstationary excitation substantially reduces the effectiveness of such a class of devices (even when optimally tuned) in attenuating the peak dynamic response of the primary system.
A Novel Generalized Approach for Real-Time Tool Condition Monitoring
Authors: Hassan Mahmoud , Sadek Ahmad , Attia M. H. , Thomson Vincent
Published: August 2017

In high-speed cutting processes, late replacement of defective tools may lead to machine breakdowns and badly affect the product quality, which subsequently lead to scrap parts and high process costs. Accurate tool condition detection is essential to achieve high level of competitiveness via increasing process productivity and standardizing the quality of the produced parts. Therefore, tool condition monitoring (TCM) systems have been widely emphasized as an important principle to achieve these industrial demands. Several studies for TCM were carried out to capture tool failure using complex conventional and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. However, these studies suffer from the absence of standardization and generalization. Hence, this paper presents a robust and reliable processing technique for the cutting process signals to extract generalized features in time and frequency domains. The proposed technique masks the effects of the cutting conditions on the extracted features and accentuates the tool condition effect. Characterization and statistical analysis of the processed features were performed to examine their sensitivity to the tool condition. The results revealed the processing technique capability to separate the features extracted from the spindle motor current signals into two mutually exclusive clusters according to their tool condition. The statistical analysis results were employed to optimize the tool condition detection approach using linear discrimination analysis (LDA) model. The results indicate the capability of the processing technique to minimize the system learning effort and to detect tool wear above the threshold level with accuracy above 90%.
Experimental Study and Finite Element Modeling of Workpiece Temperature in Finish Cylinder Boring
Authors: Chen Lei , Tai Bruce L. , Yang Juhchin A. , Shih Albert J.
Published: August 2017

Thermal expansion of the workpiece during cylinder boring process is one of the sources causing the bore cylindricity error. To study thermal expansion induced bore distortion, detailed workpiece temperature distribution in cylinder boring is required. Four finite element models, namely, the advection model, surface heat model, heat carrier model, and ring heat model, were developed to predict the workpiece temperature in cylinder boring. Cylinder boring experiments were conducted utilizing the tool–foil and embedded thermocouple experimental approaches to measure the workpiece temperature, predict the temperature distribution using the inverse heat transfer method, and evaluate the capability of the four models in terms of accuracy and efficiency. Results showed an accurate global temperature prediction for all models and a good correlation with the embedded thermocouple experimental measurements. Good correlation was also obtained between the tool–foil thermocouple measurement of machined surface temperature and model predictions. Advantages and disadvantages as well as applicable scenarios of each model were discussed. For studying detailed cylinder boring workpiece temperature, it is suggested to use the ring heat model to estimate the moving heat flux and the heat carrier model for local workpiece temperature calculation.
Heat conduction tuning by wave nature of phonons
Authors: Maire Jeremie , Anufriev Roman , Yanagisawa Ryoto , Ramiere Aymeric , Volz Sebastian , Nomura Masahiro
Published: August 2017

Perfectly periodic structures modify the transport properties of heat carriers by interference effect and hinder heat transport.
Holographic deep learning for rapid optical screening of anthrax spores
Authors: Jo YoungJu , Park Sangjin , Jung JaeHwang , Yoon Jonghee , Joo Hosung , Kim Min-hyeok , Kang Suk-Jo , Choi Myung Chul , Lee Sang Yup , Park YongKeun
Published: August 2017

A synergistic application of holography and deep learning enables rapid optical screening of anthrax spores and other pathogens.
Sequence-encoded colloidal origami and microbot assemblies from patchy magnetic cubes
Authors: Han Koohee , Shields C. Wyatt , Diwakar Nidhi M. , Bharti Bhuvnesh , López Gabriel P. , Velev Orlin D.
Published: August 2017

Sequence-encoded assembly of patchy magnetic microcubes enables making self-reconfiguring colloidal origami and “microbots.”
Leaking privacy and shadow profiles in online social networks
Authors: Garcia David
Published: August 2017

A data-driven audit shows how the data of the users of an online social network predict personal information of nonusers.
Structural pathway of regulated substrate transfer and threading through an Hsp100 disaggregase
Authors: Deville Célia , Carroni Marta , Franke Kamila B. , Topf Maya , Bukau Bernd , Mogk Axel , Saibil Helen R.
Published: August 2017

Cryo-EM structures of ClpB complexes reveal a pathway for substrate transfer and translocation during protein disaggregation.
In SLE genetics, white does not equal black, 1+1 does not equal 2
Authors: Davis Laurie S.
Published: August 2017

A transancestral SLE study examining the relationship between genetic load and disease risk.
IgE running interference for rhinovirus?
Authors: Henrickson Sarah E.
Published: August 2017

Anti-IgE treatment in pediatric allergic asthmatics reduces rates of symptomatic rhinovirus infection.