bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conjugated Linoleic Acid Supplemented Diet Influences Serum Markers in Orchidectomized Sprague‐Dawley Rats
Authors: Rojas Mibsam Margot , Villalpando Diva María , Ferrer Mercedes , Alexander‐Aguilera Alfonso , García Hugo Sergio
Published: December 2019

Conjugated isomers of linoleic acid have beneficial effects on human health, with demonstrated anticarcinogenic, antiatherogenic, antioxidant, and anti‐inflammatory properties. Previous studies have shown that the loss of sex hormones induced by orchidectomy affects vascular function and serum lipids. The objective of this work is to evaluate the effect of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) on serum lipids, cardiac, renal, and hepatic markers in orchidectomized Sprague‐Dawley rats. Male sex hormone deprivation is induced by orchidectomy to 24‐week‐old rats. The rats are fed a diet containing 1.8% w/w CLA, or a control diet for 8 weeks. At the end of the treatment, serum markers are measured using commercially available kits. The concentrations found in the orchidectomized‐CLA (ORX‐CLA) group of total cholesterol, low‐density lipoproteins (LDL), as well as the atherogenic index, concentrations of creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, C‐reactive protein, glucose, urea, uric acid, creatinine, albumin, calcium, total protein, and bilirubin are significantly lower compared to the orchidectomized‐control (ORX‐C) group. The concentrations of high‐density lipoproteins (HDL), calcium, total protein, albumin, total bilirubin, and indirect bilirubin are significantly higher in the ORX‐CLA group than in the ORX‐C group. The CLA‐supplemented diet exerts a beneficial effect on different biochemical parameters negatively affected by orchidectomy, which may result in vascular protection.

Practical Applications: The relationship between testosterone deficiency and the alteration of serum lipids is demonstrated; however, it is demonstrated in this study that the markers of renal damage, cardiac damage, and oxidative stress are also negatively affected by the lack of this hormone. This information has enriched the understanding about the relationship between testosterone deficiency and the development of different diseases such as metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, kidney failure, osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. On the other hand, CLA has been studied mainly as a nutraceutical and sports supplement; the information in this study will help to expand the knowledge about the benefits of these isomers of linoleic acid, providing guidelines for its use as a protection against negative effects triggered by orchidectomy.
Mono‐ and Tri‐Functionalization of Trimethylresorcin[4]arenes
Authors: Loose Dirk , Aniol Alexandra , Feigel Martin , Röhling Sebastian , Dyker Gerald
Published: December 2019

Short and efficient syntheses of mono‐ and tris‐functionalized resorcin[4]arenes were developed. The co‐condensation of resorcinol and 2‐methylresorcinol was optimized, targeting for the trimethylresorcin[4]arene, easy to isolate. Complementary regiospecific conditions for the mono‐ and tris‐halogenation in almost quantitative yields are setting the stage for subsequent functionalizations: radicalic bromination leads to the trisbromomethyl compound, while the polar bromination and iodination via the mono‐lithiated species leads to the aryl bromide and iodide in excellent yields.
A Novel Electrochemical Sensor for Detection of Baicalein in Human Serum Based on DUT‐9/Mesoporous Carbon Composite
Authors: Wang Haixu , Yuan Shuang , Zhou Ming , Guo Liping
Published: December 2019

DUT‐9/mesoporous carbon (DUT‐9/MC) nanocomposites were synthesized by in‐situ growth of nickel‐based metal‐organic frameworks (DUT‐9) on the MC for the first time. Compared with original DUT‐9 crystals, the presence of MC in the composites can avoid the agglomeration of DUT‐9 sheets, increase the specific surface area and reduce the electron transfer resistance. DUT‐9/MC shows enhanced electrocatalytic activity toward redox of baicalein compared with DTU‐9. The possible electrocatalytic redox mechanism of baicalein involves two electrons and two protons. Under the optimized conditions, the proposed sensor shows a wide linear relationship in the concentration range of 0.05‐20 μM (R2=0.993, sensitivity of 0.1188 μA/μM) with a low detection limit of 0.015 μM. It is worth noting that the oxidation overpotential of baicalein (0.107 V) is significantly lower than that of most literatures in pH 7.0. Meanwhile, the proposed sensor shows satisfactory results for the detection of baicalein in human serum samples. This research provides a highly efficient strategy for fabricating novel electrochemical sensor based two‐dimensional lamellar structure MOFs.
Silica microbeads capture fetal nucleated red blood cells for noninvasive prenatal testing of fetal ABO genotype
Authors: Cheng Lin , Wei Xiaoyun , Wang Zixiang , Feng Chun , Gong Qing , Fu Yourong , Zhao Xingzhong , Zhang Yuanzhen
Published: December 2019

ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn (ABO‐HDN), which may cause neonatal jaundice and polycythemia, or even stillbirth or neonatal death, is widespread in China. Prenatal testing for the fetal ABO blood group can reduce unnecessary concerns or ensure prompt treatment. Herein, we presented a method to employ high‐density silica microbeads (SiO2 MBs) for capturing fetal nucleated red blood cells (fnRBCs) in maternal peripheral blood, and we detected the ABO genotype of the fetus using these captured cells. We evaluated 52 patients using the SiO2 MBs. Among 26 pregnant women with type O blood, 8 (30.8%) of the fetuses had type A blood, 5 (19.2%) had type B blood, and 13 (50%) had type O blood. SRY genes were detected in all 27 male fetuses. This study represents a simple and effective method for noninvasive prenatal detection of the fetal ABO genotype. We believe that this method has great potential for noninvasive prenatal testing of the fetal Rh blood group and other fetal diseases as well.
Traction forces generated during studded boot‐surface interactions on third‐generation artificial turf: A novel mechanistic perspective
Authors: Forrester Steph , Fleming Paul
Published: December 2019

The traction forces generated during studded boot‐surface interactions affect player performance and injury risk. Over 20 years of empirical research into traction on third‐generation (3G) artificial turf has met with only limited success in supporting the development of safer surfaces and boots. Thus, the purpose of this perspective article is to present a conceptual framework for generating scientific understanding on 3G turf traction through a novel mechanistic approach. A three‐stage framework is proposed. Firstly, the hypothesized traction mechanisms and related analytical equations are identified, namely, friction between the boot outsole and surface; shear resistance of the performance infill layer to the outsole; and compressive resistance of the performance infill layer to horizontal stud displacement. Secondly, a Concept Map is generated to visually represent the contribution of the 39 variables identified as directly affecting the traction response. Finally, a Research Roadmap is constructed to guide the direction of future traction studies toward the development of safer surfaces and boots as well as improved mechanical tests to assess surface safety. The proposed framework represents the first attempt to deconstruct boot‐surface interactions and hypothesize the science behind the mobilization of traction forces.
Survival and reduction in foodborne bacteria using methyl cellulose film doped with europium oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Abd Elkader Mahmoud Fawzy , Almogbel Mohammed Suliman , Elabbasy Mohamed Tharwat
Published: December 2019

The study validated the efficacy of methyl cellulose films doped with different concentration of Eu2O3 nanoparticles to inactivate foodborne pathogens. Eu2O3 nanoparticles were added to the methyl cellulose solution with different weight percentages (0.0, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.25, and 1.5 wt%). X‐ray diffraction patterns for the prepared films were studied. A significant lower count of E. coli, S. typhimurium, and S. aureus (p ≤ .05) inoculated in MC films doped with Eu2O3 nanoparticles compared with pure MC film could be achieved. The findings acquired verify the impact of prepared MC films doped with Eu2O3 nanoparticles on the test strains.
Influencing Factors on the Stability of Direct Methanol Fuel Cells
Authors: Jing F. , Sun R. , Wang S. , Li Y. , Yang C. , Ma W. , Sun H. , Sun G.
Published: December 2019

This work investigated the influencing factors on the stability of direct methanol fuel cells via testing a single‐cell, which was conducted at 60 °C under 100 mA cm−2 for 3,009 h. To completely uncover and interpret the performance degradation mechanism, electrochemical method (such as polarization curve, electrochemical impedance spectra, anode polarization voltammetry, methanol crossover and cyclic voltammetry tests), electron microscopy technique (SEM, TEM and EDX) and XRD spectroscopy were coherently performed in this work. The degradation rate in the whole test process is relatively steady, in which the cell voltage decreases 29% and the maximum power density decreases 35%. However, there is obviously an irreversible degradation when the cell runs at about 1,600 h. According to our analysis, the irreversible degradation of the cell is mainly caused by the increase of resistance and decrease of catalytic activity. Further, the increase of the resistance might be due to the increase of the interface resistance between cathode and Nafion® membrane according to SEM results. In addition, the decrease of catalytic activity is mostly caused by Ru loss from anode side to cathode side and the agglomeration of catalyst particles in both electrodes.
Trading and information in futures markets
Authors: Llorente Guillermo , Wang Jiang
Published: December 2019

This paper studies the trading behavior of different types of traders (customer type indicators [CTI's]) in corn futures. Nonmembers (CTI4) consume most of the intraday liquidity while local traders (CTI1) as market makers are its main provider. Both groups combine most of the intraday trading volume. Interday trading comes mainly from proprietary accounts (CTI2) and other local traders' trades (CTI3), reflecting their longer‐term needs for hedging and speculation. Changes in the overnight positions of the general public (CTI4) and clearing members (CTI2) contribute mostly to daily price discovery, while the positions of CTI3 group reflect possible information advantage about future price movements.
Efficient trinomial trees for local‐volatility models in pricing double‐barrier options
Authors: Lok U Hou , Lyuu Yuh‐Dauh
Published: December 2019

A local‐volatility (LV) model captures the volatility smile while retaining the preference freedom of the Black–Scholes model. Past attempts to construct a smile‐consistent tree for the LV surface do not guarantee validity. This paper presents an efficient and valid smile‐consistent tree for the LV model. The only assumption is that the LV surface be upper‐ and lower‐bounded. With this tree, double‐barrier options can be priced with fast convergence even in the presence of volatility smile. This is confirmed numerically. An implied tree is also presented. It recovers the LV surface reasonably well.
Origin of Early Cretaceous Cu‐bearing magmas associated with slab break‐off in Northern Lhasa subterrane: Implications for the multisource of the postcollisional magma
Authors: Yu Shimian , Ma Xudong , Song Yang , Tang Juxing , Qu Xiaoming
Published: December 2019

The Bangong–Nujiang collision zone (BNCZ) is an ideal area for studying postcollisional magmatism. A series of late Early Cretaceous Cu‐bearing magmas are found in this collision zone, which has implications for studying the sources of postcollisional magmas. We completed detailed fieldwork and reported zircon U–Pb and Hf‐isotopic and whole‐rock geochemical data on the Daguo volcanics, Shesuo monzogranite‐granodiorites, and Xiongmei granodiorite porphyries, which represented different types of the Cu‐bearing rocks in the BNCZ. The Shesuo samples are characterized by high contents of SiO2, K2O, and total alkali, with high contents of heavy rare earth elements (HREEs) and Y, and are enriched in large‐ion lithophile elements (LILEs), depleted in Nb and Ta, with a marked negative Eu anomaly (0.29–0.92). The Xiongmei granodiorite porphyries are characterized by moderate SiO2 and MgO, high Al2O3 contents, depletion in Nb, Ta, Ba, Sr, and Ti, enrichment in LILEs, high HREEs and Y contents, and relatively low Sr/Y ratios. Both Shesuo monzogranites and Xiongmei granodiorites belong to calc‐alkaline I‐type magmas, which are associated with a wide range of zircon εHf(t) values (−15.3 to +5.8; −15.4 to +3.2). These geochemical features suggest that the Xiongmei granodiorite porphyries and Shesuo monzogranite‐granodiorites are derived from the melting of a juvenile mafic crust with ancient crustal contamination, and the juvenile mafic crusts are derived from a lithospheric mantle enriched by slab melt (including recycled subducting sediments). The Daguo basalt is derived from the partial melting of a mantle wedge metasomatized by subduction‐related fluids and/or melts and the involvement of asthenospheric mantle. The Daguo intermediate‐felsic rocks are derived from the partial melting of a juvenile crust from a metasomorphic mantle wedge. Our study implies that the genesis of these Cu‐bearing magmas is associated with slab break‐off at the end of the southward subduction of the Bangong–Nujiang Ocean lithosphere. In addition, the postcollisional magmas are multisourced, with a juvenile component from either the metasomorphic lithosphere mantle or the juvenile crust, an ancient crustal component and a subducted‐related component from the recycled subducting sediments, the subducted slab, and/or the asthenosphere.
A Phosphorus(III)‐Mediated (4+1)‐Cycloaddition of 1,2‐Dicarbonyls and Aza‐o‐Quinone Methides to Access 2,3‐Dihydroindoles
Authors: Eckert Kaitlyn E. , Lepore Antonio J. , Ashfeld Brandon L.
Published: December 2019

A (4+1)‐cycloaddition is reported between 1,2‐dicarbonyls and aza‐o‐quinone methide precursors to access 2,3‐dihydroindoles bearing a tetra‐substituted carbon center. The utilization of dioxyphospholenes as carbene surrogates provided dihydroindoles in 20–90 % yield, wherein the electronic nature of the dioxyphospholene impacts its role in the reaction.
Dual practice and multiple job holding among Iranian general practitioners: Rate and effective factors
Authors: Bayati Mohsen , Rashidian Arash , Zandian Hamed , Alipoori Somayeh
Published: December 2019

Background

Physician's dual practice is a common phenomenon in both developing and developed countries. This study aimed to investigate the rate and factors affecting the dual practice of general practitioners (GPs) as the most important primary care providers in Iran.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted on the data of 666 Iranian GPs, derived from a national survey. In this work, a researcher‐made checklist was used to collect the required information. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the factors affecting concurrent employment in both public and private sectors and the factors affecting employment in more than one place (either public or private).

Results

About 23.51% of the GPs were only working in the public sector, and 57.84% only in the private sectors. Also, 18.65% were working in both the private and public sectors. Results also indicated that 26.17% of the GPs were working in two or more places (whether public or private). Male GPs (p < .1) as well as the GPs with higher earnings expectations (p < .01) were more likely to have dual practice. Besides, the GPs working in small towns and villages (compared with Tehran, as capital of Iran; p < .05) were less likely to have dual practice. Gender (male) and earnings expectations had a significant effect on working in more than one place (p < .01).

Conclusion

The most important and significant factor affecting GPs' dual practice in Iran was their financial expectations. Thus, appropriate policies to modify physicians' income expectations and reforms such as improving tariffs setting should be adopted in the health systems.
Training and its influence on competitive strategy implementation
Authors: Osorio‐Londoño Andrés A. , Naranjo‐Valencia Julia C. , Calderón‐Hernández Gregorio
Published: December 2019

This study evaluates the influence of training on competitive strategy implementation, a little‐explored relationship in the strategic human resource literature. Theoretically, this goal is grounded in the resource‐based view of the firm, which postulates that training is a strategic resource. Additionally, contingency theory is adopted herein, in order to understand the ways in which training varies, in accordance with firm strategy. Relationships between training in specific content and Miles and Snow's opposite strategies (prospector and defender) were proposed and subsequently tested in 205 large Colombian industrial companies, through structural equation modeling. Given that prospectors compete via new products and market development, and defenders through operational efficiency, it was found that research‐development, marketing, and sales training support prospector strategy implementation, and that operations management and finance training support defender strategy implementation. The results further indicate that, if training contents are not linked to the correct strategy, they do not support its implementation. In organizational terms, this suggests that training supports strategy implementation, as long as employees are trained in the appropriate content.
Teaching STPA and OPM to Engineering Students – Industry Academia Experiences
Authors: Chokkadi Shreesha , Jeppu Yogananda
Published: December 2019

System engineers are advocating model based approaches for developing systems. INCOSE is at the forefront of this initiative with many documents released in the public domain. Safety analysis is a major aspect in systems design. This is very fresh in mind today with the crash of the Ethiopian Airlines ET302 on March 10, 2019. Systems Theoretic Process Analysis (STPA) is a technique developed by Professor Nancy Leveson at the System Engineering Research Laboratory of Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Another technique used to define the system requirements as a text and model is the Object Process Methodology developed by Professor Dov Dori of Information Systems Engineering at Technion, Israel Institute of Technology. OPM today is an ISO/PAS standard 19450. OPCAT tool is available online which can be used to model systems. A workshop on STPA and OPM were taken up as part of the industry academia interaction at Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), Manipal. Final year B.Tech. and first year M.Tech. students were taught these as hands on tutorials in a two‐day workshop. This paper covers in detail these two methods, the examples taken up at the institute and the response of the students and the lessons learnt. There was no quantitative survey carried out during the workshop but the feedback and the response from the students are very positive.
System Level Modelling of Batteries in Spacecraft Power System in Multiple Source and Multiple Load Configuration
Authors: Prasad Ratnala Chaitanya , Ananda S , Mahanta Jyostnarani , Pramod M , Srinivasan M S , Sankaran M
Published: December 2019

In present day spacecraft applications, power system uses solar arrays as the primary source of power generation and rechargeable Lithium ion batteries as secondary source of power. In normal orbits, during sunlit period, solar arrays support the power requirement from all the subsystems and payloads along with the charge power requirement of batteries. During eclipse period, entire load should be supported by batteries. In addition to the eclipse support, starting from launch pad to till deployment of solar panels, all loads will be on batteries. Contingency loads should also be taken care by batteries. So, battery sizing is very critical part in designing the power system of spacecraft. In multiple source and multiple load configuration where two or more batteries are connected to same Spacecraft power bus, current sharing between the batteries is expected, which needs to be considered for optimized sizing and designing of batteries. The scenario becomes complex with additional constraints namely some loads can come on one battery and not on others or vice versa. Even in a configuration where potential difference exists between batteries, current sharing will start as soon as this difference vanishes. A system level simulation model is developed, using network equations, to analyze in‐circuit performance of batteries in multiple source and multiple load power system. The simulation model uses actual current sharing and predicts State of Charge (SOC) of each battery from which Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) is derived. This OCV of batteries is used periodically for finding actual current sharing which runs in a loop for analyzing battery performance in multisource system. Currently a configuration in which two batteries are connected to two buses, which are paralleled and having different loads, is simulated. Optimized battery sizing, actual current sharing and SOC of each battery are derived. This model can also be extended to a system where more than two batteries are present. Two different approaches are used for simulation and results are compared. The developed generic model has features to use in multiple battery configuration.
Application of Object‐Process Methodology in Project Management‐ A Case Study of Mumbai Metro Line 3
Authors: More Harshal , Khanapuri Vivekanand
Published: December 2019

Project management is of great significance nowadays because it deals with strategic alignment of organizations, leadership, clear focus and objectives, realistic project planning, quality control, risk management, orderly process, subject matter expertise, managing and learning from success and failure. Project management plays a crucial role in developing Complex Engineered Systems like airports, logistics networks, telecom networks, enterprise information system, IoT platforms and all types of infrastructure system from mass transit to water supplies. This paper uses mass transit system Mumbai Metro Line 3 as a case study to explain project management of Complex Engineered System. There are limited use and inadequacy of traditional project management tools and techniques (PMTT) which arises the need of modern and dynamic project management methodology to model the complex system. Object‐Process Methodology (OPM) is an ISO 19450:2015 standard for system modeling having simulation capability. This paper shows the application of Object‐Process Methodology in project management as modeling of the complex engineered system using Mumbai Metro case study.
Virtual Integration in Avionics Systems‐RTOS
Authors: Kouty Shreyus Yadaveerappa , Mishra Shobhit
Published: December 2019

This paper discuss about the challenges and thoughts in Virtual integration using Real Time Operating Systems for avionics system integration with respect to different architectures like Open System Architecture and Integrated Modular Avionics.

This paper mainly discusses about role of RTOS like ARINC653 in solving the problems in Avionics System Engineering, in which software‐software integration and hardware‐software integration is achieved using features of RTOS and this approach is called Virtual Integration. I have proposed customization of existing RTOS using new concepts which enhances the capability of performance and extendibility in integration keeping core System Engineering Principles in mind.

This paper discusses about the system integration challenges identified in use of existing RTOS which includes: 1. Cross Platform Development, 2. Selection of communication mechanisms and scheduling for mixed operating system environment, 3. Current RTOS are mainly Monolithic and Micro Kernel based to compete in speed of execution and process management. 4. Current RTOS are limited to target platforms like Power PC, Intel x86 etc. and not supporting soft processors like micro‐blaze, FPGA platforms etc.

Proposal for future enhancements to include use of Kernel level scheduling algorithms and Nano Kernels in RTOS to host more Platform OS to have more number of independent process running with more accurate time scheduling with less switch overheads, support for cross platform development with different host development technologies, support for SOC, POC other than conventional processors like x86, Power PC, ARM and MIPS etc.

This paper discusses about the Network Virtualization and its application in avionics integration to overcome the capability of hardware networking devices using RTOS. Applying Trusted Execution Technology (TXT) approach in Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) to ensure that the launching components at BIOS, OS Loader and Hypervisor are safe and trusted to avoid failure and malfunctions during run‐time.
The INCOSE‐PPI Systems Engineering Tools Database – What's Coming
Authors: King René
Published: December 2019

The Systems Engineering Tools Database (SETDB) project is a collaboration between INCOSE and Project Performance International (PPI) to reinstate and revive the popular on‐line catalogue of tools information that was lost in a migration activity several years ago. “Walking the talk”, the project team has of course taken a systems engineering (SE) approach comprising thorough, and separate, problem definition and solution description artefacts. Thus far, a rigorous system requirements analysis activity has produced a detailed set of SETDB use cases, a description of intended use (OCD/CONUSE) and a baselined specification of requirements – all developed in close collaboration with INCOSE and PPI stakeholders. The products of that activity are presented in detail in this paper.

One of the points of emphasis during development is to distinguish between the SETDB enterprise system – which comprises all that is entailed in providing the database service to its users, including computing devices, the INCOSE website, the internet, operational processes and project infrastructure – from the SETDB Information System. The SETDB Information System (SETDBIS) is the main technical solution element of the project and will exist as a subsystem of the larger SETDB system. Making this distinction ensures that all of the elements necessary to meet the SETDB stakeholder needs are identified and included in the development.

The next step of the project is to use the outputs from the requirements analysis process as directives to develop the SETDB solution to deliver its initial operational capability (IOC) within the allotted project timelines. An incremental development process for the information system has been decided upon, to enable iterative improvement based on feedback from testing and demonstration to users. Mapping and alignment of the INCOSE SE Handbook Processes and PPI SE process elements to tool functionality in order to define the tool categories is a critical and challenging task. The effort to map and harmonize (where possible) systems engineering methods supported by tool functionality will result in intuitive delivery of detailed tool information to SETDB users.
A System Dynamic Model to Assess Cost and Profitability in Reverse Logistics in Apparel Industry
Authors: Singh Shristi , Acharya Padmanav , Jain Karuna
Published: December 2019

Reverse Logistics has become an inevitable process of any company's business model. It is concerned with such issues as used goods, defective and returned goods from customer end to the manufacturers. The returned goods can be reprocessed/recycled and can create value. However, the entire process of reverse flow of returned goods also incurs cost attributed to facility, inventory, transportation and others. These cost implications have hindered the popularity of Reverse Logistics among the original product manufacturers. Different industry verticals are having varying issues of challenging nature in reverse logistics.

India is the second largest producer of textiles and garments in the world. It has an enormous raw material and manufacturing base. The domestic textile industry accounts for 14% of total industrial production. As of today, it is the second largest employment provider in the country. There are challenges related to Reverse Logistics in the apparel sector. There are many issues related to returned goods in apparels. It is quite a common phenomenon for businesses in the apparel industry to shy away from undertaking this function because of the huge costs that accompany the processes. This paper looks at return issues related to reverse logistics in the apparel industry in India. The authors are proposing a system dynamics model to assess the long‐term cost implications and profitability of Reverse Logistics in the apparel sector in India.
Modeling Operations of a Construction Worksite System
Authors: Jayawant Yatin , Joshi Nikhil , Tole Dipali
Published: December 2019

A construction worksite is a complex system that consists of different types of machines working together interdependently. The overall performance or efficiency of an operation is dependent on many factors, such as the combination of machines used, fuel consumption rates, job allocation among machines and coordination rules, etc. Building detailed behavior models can help contractors or planners evaluate system performance and make optimal choices for configuring the operation. Using aggregate material movement between two piles as an example, this paper demonstrates the development of an Agent Based Model (ABM) to simulate the operations at a construction worksite. The model incorporates detailed behaviors of 4‐wheel drive loaders (4WDLs) & articulated dump trucks (ADTs) used in the operation, along with their interactions. The simulation can be used to calculate the time taken for the operation and corresponding costs. Consequently, the model can further be used to determine the optimal number and combination of machines to be used, so as to minimize the cost or time taken for the operation. Our example shows the potential for such models to be used by contractors to calculate accurate time and effort estimates for a job, and thereby produce competitive bids and efficient plans. Finally, we also discuss how such models can serve towards building and evaluating algorithms for autonomous machines that can work collaboratively in complex and dangerous environments, such as construction worksites.
Assessing the Potential of IoT in Systems Engineering Discipline
Authors: Ramalingam Thirunavukkarasu , Tweten Daniel
Published: December 2019

Internet of Things (IoT) is becoming more and more important in many industry sectors and domains. Digital transformation is at the heart of business strategies nowadays and it begins with the executive mandate. There is a strong sense of urgency among executives as the threat of digitally enabled competitors remains high on the list of concerns. From the birth of IoT in 1999 to 2003, the number of devices grew to 500 million connected devices. By 2023, the forecast is for over 50 billion connected devices serving a population of 7.6 billion people (Dave 2011)

Metcalfe's Law reminds us that three interconnected components result in a maximum of three interconnections, but with four the maximum number of interconnections rises to six, and with ten components, designers must deal with 45! This law illustrates how so many connected devices will challenge the way system engineering is carried out now. IoT is NOT a distant future, it's happening now. As a system engineering professional we have to be ready for the kind of thinking and tools that will be needed to address such a level of complexity. The IoT is, in a sense, a hyper‐scale System of Systems problem with multiple environments, requirements, governance structures and millions of stakeholders. So what tools can the SE discipline provide to manage this growing technology?

This exploratory research is targeted towards identifying the various IoT characteristics and their impact on System Engineering discipline. A methodology was developed to establish the relationship between the IoT characteristics and System Engineering elements (Design requirements). Matrix methodology also helped in identifying the positive and negative correlation between the IoT characteristics and its linkage with various systems engineering element. This investigative research could be used by System Engineering professional to understand the impact of IoT on the practice of Systems Engineering.
System of Systems (SoS) Analysis of the Problem of UAS Integration into Controlled Airspace
Authors: Ramamurthy Prasanna
Published: December 2019

Unmanned aircraft system (UAS) operations are growing in numbers, type of applications, technical complexity and regulatory challenges. National aviation regulatory authorities are engaged in coming up with regulatory and policy framework for seamless integration and operation of UAS in civil airspace. Integration of UAS into civil airspace is a complex and challenging System of Systems (SoS) engineering problem involving multiple stakeholders, complex airborne and ground systems / subsystems, processes, regulatory frameworks, etc. Recent research and developments in SoS engineering provide tools for representing, modelling and analysis of complex SoSs which would help in taking design decisions and risk mitigation. In this paper, the problem of integrating UAS into controlled civil airspace is analyzed from the SoS engineering stand point. The key system elements involved in the problem and their relationship and interactions are modelled as a SoS. The relationship between the technical challenges associated with the key SoS elements and the standard SoS dimensional properties is established. An approach for developing an architecture model of the proposed SoS is discussed.
Aircraft Landing Performance Assessment through Post‐Flight Data Analytics
Authors: Ramamurthy Prasanna , Sundaramurthy Ajay
Published: December 2019

A third of all accidents involving commercial aircraft worldwide have been determined to be due to landing performance deviations resulting in runway excursions. Landing distance, i.e. the distance needed to safely complete the landing at the destination runway, is one of the key parameters that define the landing performance of an aircraft. From an operational safety perspective, assessment of landing performance of every flight in terms of landing distance and the related aircraft system parameters, to identify the performance deviations of the Pilot and Aircraft and Aircraft systems, as well as potential system faults / failures that could have triggered these deviations, would help the Airlines to effectively plan Aircraft and Aircraft system maintenance and Pilot training. This paper proposes a systems engineering approach to assess the landing performance of a given flight. The requirements and architecture definition process for the landing performance assessment system is discussed. A method to analyze the landing performance deviations and to perform a root cause analysis to identify and isolate the key contributors towards these deviations is presented.
Implementation of ECU Specific Requirements in ODX Generation Using Variation Management
Authors: Nata Aswin , Kodati Eswar Kumar
Published: December 2019

As the need for diagnostic applications in the advanced technological vehicles is increasing, the need for standardized format for diagnostic data is also growing. ODX (Open Diagnostic data eXchange) file is one of the standardized XML‐based formats based on ISO 22901 used for exchanging diagnostic data in modern world vehicles. Different types of diagnostic identifiers like DIDs, RIDs and DTCs are defined in a structured way in ODX files. These diagnostic identifiers will be used throughout the life cycle of vehicle development like software development, testing, production, after‐sales and service. The new features like Autonomous and Electrification demands to have common and distinctive diagnostics requirements for different vehicle platforms. This poses architectural challenges in managing common features and specific features with in a superset architecture (eg: Defining a single DID differently for different ECUs). One of the ways to tackle this challenge is through variation management concept. Variation management enables embedding information about different flavors of controllers into the same architecture. This helps downstream software teams to optimize their software to have their specific requirements. This paper focuses on variation management solution to accommodate ECU specific diagnostic requirements in ODX generation.
Characterisation and optimisation of MEMS based pressure sensors for deep space missions
Authors: Narayan R. , Sidhick Aisha , Shekar GL , Prasad MVN
Published: December 2019

Pressure sensors are extensively used in spacecraft propulsion system for health monitoring and determining the on‐orbit functional life of the spacecrafts. This is possible by employing PVT (Pressure‐Volume‐Temperature) method wherein pressure sensors and temperature sensors mounted in the propellant tank are used for accurate measurement of pressure and temperature. Pressure sensors are also employed for control & other system health monitoring applications. For aerospace applications, they have to perform under harsh and volatile environments and demands utmost reliability and long‐term performance stability. Hence, it is essential to characterise and optimise these sensors by adopting adequate design methodologies test philosophies. A detailed study has been carried out and the performances were evaluated for establishing the usage of MEMS based pressure sensors.
Technical Measures Perspectives in Selection of Handling Qualities Criteria for Flight Control Design
Authors: Chowhan Kishan Singh , Arya Hemendra , Deodhare Girish S
Published: December 2019

The requirements of satisfactory pilot‐vehicle interaction in high workload precision flying tasks plays a very important and dominant role in the design of flight control systems. Based on the extensive flight test experience, quantitative handling qualities specifications to aid control law design have been derived and documented in relevant MIL Standards. In this paper an attempt is made to demonstrate methodology used for validation of Handling Qualities (HQ) requirements for a HighPerformance fighter Aircraft (HPA) using technical measurements in systems engineering i.e. Measure of effectiveness (MOE), Measure of performance (MOP) and Technical performance measure (TPM) as defined by INCOSE.

A mission requirement such as Air to Air Refueling (AAR) is considered as a user need in qualitative form and is mapped to MOE as an indicator of achieving the operational objective. The MOPs are arrived from the handling quality specifications from MIL standards for the flight control design. TPMs enable an assessment of the system design by estimating the values of key performance parameters of the design through engineering analyses and tests.

A piloted evaluation is performed for the given mission requirement. The flight data together with pilot comments on aircraft handling qualities are assessed to identify any mismatch between predicted HQ versus piloted evaluation which leads to iteration of flight control laws. Thereby, the use of technical measures keeps track of requirements to be met while maintain desired system performance as well anticipate any risk and mitigate the same during early stage of design cycle.
ECU Inter‐processor data communication End to End verification in Autosar for achieving Functional Safety Goals
Authors: Gowda Jagadish Narayan
Published: December 2019

Safety is absence of unreasonable risk. Functional safety emphasis to handle unintended behavior of the system. ISO26262 recommends the process and development of electrical components in automotive vehicle weighing less than 3000kg. Features are assigned with Automotive safety integrate levels (ASIL) A,B,C and D by performing Hazard Analysis and Risk Assignment(HARA). ISO 26262 recommends integrity of data communicated between sender and receiver components which handles data associated with ASIL features. This is achieved by developing each software or hardware components in compliance with ISO26262 ASIL recommended process and implementation. The process requires lot of effort to develop and validate each software component as per ISO26262 recommendations. This is more challenging when data integrity needs to be maintained between sender and receiver components which resides on two different microprocessors in the ECU. Also, it is more challenging to achieve freedom from interference between QM (quality managed) and ASIL feature software with in the software or hardware components. This paper detailed the decomposition of ASIL as per ISO‐ 26262 and exploring the end to end verification methods in AUTOSAR (Automotive Open System Architecture) to achieve safety goals. This paper considers achieving data integrity between two microprocessors in infotainment. This paper highlights the software components on sender and receiver that must comply to ISO26262 and recommendations, instead of developing all software and hardware components as per ISO 26262.
Timescale Ensemble Performance Enhancement through use of Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Maharana Shikha , Bhardwajan Aakanksha Avnish , Ganesh T Subramanya , Ramakrishna B N
Published: December 2019

A timescale is the estimate of phase and frequency of the “perfect” clock derived from the phase and frequency of the clocks which participate in the ensemble. An ensemble of clocks is the first step towards the realization of a timescale. In the past, several methodologies have been developed to solve the timescale problem such as KAS‐2, Multi‐scale Ensemble Timescale (METS), ALGOS (BIPM), AT1 (NIST) and algorithm for UTC (CRL). An adaptive ensemble algorithm based on Artificial Neural Network (ANN) has been developed which shows improvements in terms of betterment of frequency stability of the ensemble. The Neural Network in the ensemble algorithm learns differently for different sample spaces of the input phase data that is provided. The weights of the participating clocks are derived from their respective Allan deviations. The weights formulated for the ensemble undergo a regressive iteration to obtain the training data set for parameterization of weights. A single‐layer perceptron feedback Neural Network that is proposed in this paper, dynamically adapts the weights assigned to the participating clocks based on the paper clock performance.

This paper dwells on the comparison of performances between the ANN‐based algorithms with that of two other algorithms, namely Reduced Kalman filter based algorithm and METS. Results of ANN‐based algorithm for different clock combinations are also presented. The behavior of this algorithm in the event of measurement data outage has also been presented in the paper.
Increased Expression of FGF-21 Negatively Affects Bone Homeostasis in Dystrophin/Utrophin Double Knockout Mice
Authors: Li Hongshuai , Sun Hui , Qian Baoli , Feng Wei , Carney Dwayne , Miller Jennifer , Hogan MaCalus V , Wang Ling
Published: December 2019

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most common muscular dystrophy seen in children. In addition to skeletal muscle, DMD also has a significant impact on bone. The pathogenesis of bone abnormalities in DMD is still unknown. Recently, we have identified a novel bone-regulating cytokine, fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21), which is dramatically upregulated in skeletal muscles from DMD animal models. We hypothesize that muscle-derived FGF-21 negatively affects bone homeostasis in DMD. Dystrophin/utrophin double-knockout (dKO) mice were used in this study. We found that the levels of circulating FGF-21 were significantly higher in dKO mice than in age-matched WT controls. Further tests on FGF-21 expressing tissues revealed that both FGF-21 mRNA and protein expression were dramatically upregulated in dystrophic skeletal muscles, whereas FGF-21 mRNA expression was downregulated in liver and white adipose tissue (WAT) compared to WT controls. Neutralization of circulating FGF-21 by i.p. injection of anti-FGF-21 antibody significantly alleviated progressive bone loss in weight-bearing (vertebra, femur, and tibia) and non–weight bearing bones (parietal bones) in dKO mice. We also found that FGF-21 directly promoted RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis from bone marrow macrophages (BMMs), as well as promoted adipogenesis while concomitantly inhibiting osteogenesis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs). Furthermore, fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) and co-receptor β-klotho (KLB) were expressed in bone cells (BMM-derived osteoclasts and BMMSCs) and bone tissues. KLB knockdown by small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) significantly inhibited the effects of FGF21 on osteoclast formation of BMMs and on adipogenic differentiation of BMMSCs, indicating that FGF-21 may directly affect dystrophic bone via the FGFRs-β-klotho complex. In conclusion, this study shows that dystrophic skeletal muscles express and secrete significant levels of FGF-21, which negatively regulates bone homeostasis and represents an important pathological factor for the development of bone abnormalities in DMD. The current study highlights the importance of muscle/bone cross-talk via muscle-derived factors (myokines) in the pathogenesis of bone abnormalities in DMD. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Dihydrophenazine‐based double‐anchoring dye for dye‐sensitized solar cells
Authors: Kumar Dhirendra , Chen Yu‐Lin , Tsai Chih‐Hung , Wong Ken‐Tsung
Published: December 2019

A novel dihydrophenazine‐based organic di‐anchoring dye DK‐11 was synthesized by utilizing a simple synthetic protocol. The dye was characterized by optical and electrochemical studies and used as a sensitizer for dye‐sensitized solar cell. The proposed butterfly structure was supported by IR experiments which ensured the binding of both carboxylic acid units on the semiconductor surface. Using the dye DK‐11, the device generated an efficiency of 5.07% with JSC, VOC, and FF values of 10.65 mA/cm2, 0.67 V, and 0.71, respectively.
Pre‐miR‐27a rs895819 polymorphism and risk of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Tang Weiyan , Xu Haonan , Ma Dawei , Ma Rong , Wu Jianqiu , Yu Xinnian , Feng Jifeng , Liu Qizhan
Published: December 2019

Background

Recently, several studies have investigated the relationship between Pre‐miR‐27a rs895819 polymorphism and risk of various cancers. However, the relationship between rs895819 and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) has not been well known.

Methods

In this study, we conducted a case‐control study to explore the role of Pre‐miR‐27a rs895819 in risk of DLBCL. The PCR‐TaqMan and luciferase assays and in vitro experiments were used to evaluate polymorphism function.

Results

As a result, we found subjects carrying with rs895819 AG/GG genotype had a significantly decreased risk when compared with those carrying the AA genotype. Further qPCR assay showed that the DLBCL patients carrying AG/GG genotypes showed a lower level of mature miR‐27a when compared with patients carrying AA genotype. Moreover, miR‐27a levels were upregulated in DLBCL tissues compared with normal lymphoid tissues. Further in vitro experiments showed that miR‐27a might function as an oncogene through target TGFBR1. In addition, TGFBR1 overexpression rescues effects of miR‐27a inhibitor on DLBCL cells phenotypes.

Conclusions

In conclusion, these findings indicate that rs895819 A > G might reduce the expression of mature miR‐27a, and leading a higher level of TGFBR1, ultimately inhibiting the development of DLBCL.