bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluid Rheological Effects on the Flow of Polymer Solutions in a Contraction–Expansion Microchannel
Authors: Jagdale Purva P. , Li Di , Shao Xingchen , Bostwick Joshua B. , Xuan Xiangchun
Published: March 2020

A fundamental understanding of the flow of polymer solutions through the pore spaces of porous media is relevant and significant to enhanced oil recovery and groundwater remediation. We present in this work an experimental study of the fluid rheological effects on non-Newtonian flows in a simple laboratory model of the real-world pores—a rectangular sudden contraction–expansion microchannel. We test four different polymer solutions with varying rheological properties, including xanthan gum (XG), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), polyethylene oxide (PEO), and polyacrylamide (PAA). We compare their flows against that of pure water at the Reynolds ( R e ) and Weissenburg ( W i ) numbers that each span several orders of magnitude. We use particle streakline imaging to visualize the flow at the contraction–expansion region for a comprehensive investigation of both the sole and the combined effects of fluid shear thinning, elasticity and inertia. The observed flow regimes and vortex development in each of the tested fluids are summarized in the dimensionless W i − R e and χ L − R e parameter spaces, respectively, where χ L is the normalized vortex length. We find that fluid inertia draws symmetric vortices downstream at the expansion part of the microchannel. Fluid shear thinning causes symmetric vortices upstream at the contraction part. The effect of fluid elasticity is, however, complicated to analyze because of perhaps the strong impact of polymer chemistry such as rigidity and length. Interestingly, we find that the downstream vortices in the flow of Newtonian water, shear-thinning XG and elastic PVP solutions collapse into one curve in the χ L − R e space.
Emergence of Staphylococcus lugdunensis as a Cause of Urinary Tract Infection: Results of the Routine Use of MALDI-TOF MS
Authors: Chiu Kelvin H. Y. , Lam Rex P. K. , Chan Elaine , Lau Susanna K. P. , Woo Patrick C. Y.
Published: March 2020

We analyzed the incidence and the clinical and laboratory characteristics of Staphylococcus lugdunensis urinary tract infections (UTIs) during a 10-year period (2009–2018) and compared them with those of Staphylococcus saprophyticus UTIs. A total of 38 and 162 episodes of S. lugdunensis and S. saprophyticus UTIs were observed. The number of S. saprophyticus UTIs was stable throughout the 10 years, whereas there was an obvious surge in the apparent number of S. lugdunensis UTIs since 2014, coinciding with the commencement of a routine use of MALDI-TOF MS. Univariate analysis showed that male sex (p < 0.001), advanced age (p < 0.001), hospital-acquired infections, (p < 0.001), upper UTI (p < 0.005), polymicrobial infections (p < 0.05), hypertension (p < 0.001), solid-organ malignancies (p < 0.001), renal stones (p < 0.001), urinary stricture (p < 0.05), vesicoureteral reflux (p < 0.001), and presence of a urinary catheter (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with S. lugdunensis UTI. Multivariable analysis revealed that S. lugdunensis UTI was associated with male sex (OR = 6.08, p < 0.05), solid-organ malignancies (OR = 12.27, p < 0.01), and urological system abnormalities (OR = 7.44, p < 0.05). There were significant differences in the patient population affected and predisposing factors between S. lugdunensis and S. saprophyticus UTIs.
Investigation of AC-Measurements of Epoxy/Ferrite Composites
Authors: Darwish Moustafa A. , Trukhanov Alex V. , Senatov Oleg S. , Morchenko Alexander T. , Saafan Samia A. , Astapovich Ksenia A. , Trukhanov Sergei V. , Trukhanova Ekaterina L. , Pilyushkin Andrey A. , Sombra Antonio Sergio B. , Zhou Di , Jotania Rajshree B. , Singh Charanjeet
Published: March 2020

A pure ferrite and epoxy samples as well as the epoxy/ferrite composites with different 20 wt.%, 30 wt.%, 40 wt.%, and 50 wt.% weight ferrite contents have been prepared by the chemical co-precipitation method. AC-conductivity and dielectric properties such as the dielectric constant and dielectric loss of the prepared samples have been studied. The obtained results showed that the samples had a semiconductor behavior. The dielectric constant of the composites has been calculated theoretically using several models. For the composite sample that contains 20 wt.% of ferrites, these models give satisfactory compliance, while for the composite samples with a higher percentage of nanofillers, more than 30 wt.% theoretical results do not coincide with experimental data. The investigated polymer has very low conductivity, so this type of polymer can be useful for high-frequency applications, which can reduce the losses caused by eddy current. Thus, the prepared samples are promising materials for practical use as elements of microwave devices.
Precision Genomic Practice in Oncology: Pharmacist Role and Experience in an Ambulatory Care Clinic
Authors: Raheem Farah , Kim Pauline , Grove Meagan , Kiel Patrick J.
Published: March 2020

Recent advancements in molecular testing, the availability of cost-effective technology, and novel approaches to clinical trial design have facilitated the implementation of tumor genome sequencing into standard of care oncology practices. Current models of precision oncology practice include specialized clinics or consultation services based on a molecular tumor board (MTB) approach. MTBs are comprised of interprofessional teams of clinicians and scientists who evaluate tumors at the molecular level to guide patient-specific targeted therapy. The practice of precision oncology utilizing MTB-based models is an emerging approach, transforming precision genomics from a novel concept into clinical practice. This rapid shift in practice from cytotoxic therapy to targeted medicine poses challenges, yet brings exciting opportunities to clinical pharmacists practicing in hematology and oncology. Only a few precision genomics programs in the United States have a strong pharmacy presence with oncology pharmacists serving in leadership roles in research, interpreting genomic sequencing, making treatment recommendations, and facilitating off-label drug procurement. This article describes the experience of the precision medicine clinic at the Indiana University Health Simon Cancer Center, with emphasis on the role of the pharmacist in the precision oncology initiative.
The Effect of Waste Engine Oil and Waste Polyethylene on UV Aging Resistance of Asphalt
Authors: Peng Chao , Guo Chong , You Zhanping , Xu Fang , Ma Wenbo , You Lingyun , Li Tianjun , Zhou Lizhen , Huang Shifan , Ma Hongchao , Lu Li
Published: March 2020

Waste engine oil (WEO) and waste polyethylene (WPE) are two common wastes, which are easy to pollute the environment. As the primary material in road construction, natural asphalt is a non-renewable energy source and asphalt is vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) radiation during the service life. It results in degradation of asphalt pavement performance. In this paper, 2 wt % to 8 wt % of WEO and WPE were used to modify asphalts and the UV aging simulation experiment was carried out. The physical parameters of asphalts before the UV aging experiment show that the asphalt containing 4 wt % WPE and 6 wt % WEO mixture (4 wt % WPE + 6 wt % WEO) has similar physical properties with that of the matrix asphalt. Besides, gel permeation chromatography (GPC) verifies that the molecular weight distribution of the asphalt containing 4 wt % WPE + 6 wt % WEO is close to that of the matrix asphalt. The storage stability test shows that 4 wt % WPE + 6 wt % WEO has good compatibility with the matrix asphalt. The functional groups and micro-morphology of asphalts before and after the UV aging experiment were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). FTIR results display that 4 wt % WPE + 6 wt % WEO can effectively reduce the formation of carbonyl and sulfoxide functional groups. AFM shows that 4 wt % WPE + 6 wt % WEO can also retard the formation of a “bee-like” structure in asphalt after the UV aging experiment. Based on the above results, it can be concluded that WEO and WPE mixture can replace part of asphalt and improve the UV aging resistance of asphalt.
Biodegradable, Flexible, and Transparent Conducting Silver Nanowires/Polylactide Film with High Performance for Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Wang Junjun , Yu Junsheng , Bai Dongyu , Li Zhuobin , Liu Huili , Li Ying , Chen Shanyong , Cheng Jiang , Li Lu
Published: March 2020

As a synthetic renewable and biodegradable material, the application of polylactide (PLA) in the green flexible electronics has attracted intensive attention due to the increasingly serious issue of electronic waste. Unfortunately, the development of PLA-based optoelectronic devices is greatly hindered by the poor heat resistance and mechanical property of PLA. To overcome these limitations, herein, we report a facile and promising route to fabricate silver nanowires/PLA (AgNW/PLA) film with largely improved properties by utilizing the stereocomplex (SC) crystallization between poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) and poly(D-lactide) (PDLA). Through embedding the AgNW networks into the PLLA:PDLA blend matrix via a transfer method, the AgNW/PLLA:PDLA film with both high transparency and excellent conductivity was obtained. Compared with the AgNW/PLLA film, the formation of SC crystallites in the composites matrix could significantly enhance not only heat resistance but also mechanical strength of the AgNW/PLLA:PDLA film. Exceptionally, the AgNW/PLLA:PDLA film exhibited superior flexibility and could maintain excellent electrical conductivity stability even under the condition of 10,000 repeated bending cycles and 100 tape test cycles. In addition, the organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) with the AgNW/PLLA:PDLA films as electrodes were successfully fabricated in this work for the first time and they exhibited highly flexible, luminous, as well as hydrolytic degradation properties. This work could provide a low-cost and environment-friendly avenue towards fabricating high-performanced PLA-based biodegradable electronics.
Effect of Carbon Black Nanofiller on Adhesion Properties of SBS Rubber Surfaces Treated by Low-Pressure Plasma
Authors: Tyczkowski Jacek , Balcerzak Jacek , Sielski Jan , Krawczyk-Kłys Iwona
Published: March 2020

Studies on the surface modification of commercial styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) rubber with different carbon black (CB) nanofiller content (10–80 parts per hundred parts of rubber (phr)) performed by low-pressure oxygen plasma are presented in this paper. The adhesion properties of the rubber were determined by the peel test for adhesive-bonded joints prepared with a water-based polyurethane (PU) adhesive. The chemical structure and morphology of the SBS rubber surface before and after plasma treatment were investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. The peel tests showed that the plasma treatment significantly improved the strength of adhesive-bonded joints in the entire range of CB tested, revealing a clear maximum for approximately 50 phr of CB. It was also found that as a result of plasma treatment, functional groups that are responsible for the reactions with the PU adhesive, such as C−OH and C=O, were formed, and their concentration, similar to the peel strength, showed maximum values for approximately 50 phr CB. The occurrence of these maxima was explained using the bound rubber model.
Identification of the Interfacial Surface in Separation of Two-Phase Multicomponent Systems
Authors: Pavlenko Ivan , Liaposhchenko Oleksandr , Sklabinskyi Vsevolod , Storozhenko Vitaly , Mikhajlovskiy Yakov , Ochowiak Marek , Ivanov Vitalii , Pitel Jan , Starynskyi Oleksandr , Włodarczak Sylwia , Krupińska Andżelika , Markowska Małgorzata
Published: March 2020

The area of the contact surface of phases is one of the main hydrodynamic indicators determining the separation and heat and mass transfer equipment calculations. Methods of evaluating this indicator in the separation of multicomponent two-phase systems were considered. It was established that the existing methods for determining the interfacial surface are empirical ones, therefore limited in their applications. Consequently, the use of the corresponding approaches is appropriate for certain technological equipment only. Due to the abovementioned reasons, the universal analytical formula for determining the interfacial surface was developed. The approach is based on both the deterministic and probabilistic mathematical models. The methodology was approved on the example of separation of two-phase systems considering the different fractional distribution of dispersed particles. It was proved that the area of the contact surface with an accuracy to a dimensionless ratio depends on the volume concentration of the dispersed phase and the volume of flow. The separate cases of evaluating the contact area ratio were considered for different laws of the fractional distribution of dispersed particles. As a result, the dependence on the identification of the abovementioned dimensionless ratio was proposed, as well as its limiting values were determined. Finally, a need for the introduction of the correction factor was substantiated and practically proved on the example of mass-transfer equipment.
Multi-Agent Systems and Complex Networks: Review and Applications in Systems Engineering
Authors: Herrera Manuel , Pérez-Hernández Marco , Kumar Parlikad Ajith , Izquierdo Joaquín
Published: March 2020

Systems engineering is an ubiquitous discipline of Engineering overlapping industrial, chemical, mechanical, manufacturing, control, software, electrical, and civil engineering. It provides tools for dealing with the complexity and dynamics related to the optimisation of physical, natural, and virtual systems management. This paper presents a review of how multi-agent systems and complex networks theory are brought together to address systems engineering and management problems. The review also encompasses current and future research directions both for theoretical fundamentals and applications in the industry. This is made by considering trends such as mesoscale, multiscale, and multilayer networks along with the state-of-art analysis on network dynamics and intelligent networks. Critical and smart infrastructure, manufacturing processes, and supply chain networks are instances of research topics for which this literature review is highly relevant.
Correction: Tabata, T., et al. Recalibration of over 35 Years of Infrared and Water Vapor Channel Radiances of the JMA Geostationary Satellites. Remote Sens. 2019, 11, 1189
Authors: Tabata Tasuku , John Viju O. , Roebeling Rob A. , Hewison Tim , Schulz Jörg
Published: March 2020

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Glacier Mass Balance in the Nyainqentanglha Mountains between 2000 and 2017 Retrieved from ZiYuan-3 Stereo Images and the SRTM DEM
Authors: Ren Shaoting , Menenti Massimo , Jia Li , Zhang Jing , Zhang Jingxiao , Li Xin
Published: March 2020

Mountain glaciers are excellent indicators of climate change and have an important role in the terrestrial water cycle and food security in many parts of the world. Glaciers are the major water source of rivers and lakes in the Nyainqentanglha Mountains (NM) region, where the glacier area has the second largest extent on the Tibetan Plateau. The potential of the high spatial resolution ZiYuan-3 (ZY-3) Three-Line-Array (TLA) stereo images to retrieve glacier mass balance has not been sufficiently explored. In this study, we optimized the procedure to extract a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) from ZY-3 TLA stereo images and estimated the geodetic mass balance of representative glaciers in the two typical areas of the NM using ZY-3 DEMs and the C-band Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) DEM in three periods, i.e., 2000–2013, 2013–2017 and 2000–2017. The results provide detailed information towards better understanding of glacier change and specifically show that: (1) with our new stereo procedure, ZY-3 TLA data can significantly increase point cloud density and decrease invalid data on the glacier surface map to generate a high resolution (5 m) glacier mass balance map; (2) the glacier mass balance in both the Western Nyainqentanglha Mountains (WNM) and Eastern Nyainqentanglha Mountains (ENM) was negative in 2000–2017, and experienced faster mass loss in recent years (2013–2017) in the WNM. Overall, the glaciers in the western and eastern NM show different change patterns since they are influenced by different climate regimes; the glacier mass balances in WNM was –0.22 ± 0.23 m w.e. a−1 and –0.43 ± 0.06 m w.e. a−1 in 2000–2013 and 2013–2017, respectively, while in 2000–2017, it was –0.30 ± 0.19 m w.e. a−1 in the WNM and –0.56 ± 0.20 m w.e. a−1 in the ENM; (3) in the WNM, the glaciers experienced mass loss in 2000–2013 and 2013–2017 in the ablation zone, while in the accumulation zone mass increased in 2000–2013 and a large mass loss occurred in 2013–2017; as regards the ENM, the glacier mass balance was negative in 2000–2017 in both zones; (4) glacier mass balance can be affected by the fractional abundance of debris and glacier slope; (5) the glacier mass balances retrieved by ZY-3 and TanDEM-X data agreed well in the ablation zone, while a large difference occurred in the accumulation zone because of the snow/firn penetration of the X-band SAR signal.
Landsat 8 Virtual Orange Band for Mapping Cyanobacterial Blooms
Authors: Kumar Abhishek , Mishra Deepak R. , Ilango Nirav
Published: March 2020

The Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager (OLI) has a panchromatic band (503–676 nm) that can be used to derive a novel virtual orange band (590–635 nm) by using the multispectral green band and red band components. The orange band is useful for the accurate detection and quantification of phycocyanin (PC), an accessory pigment in toxin-producing cyanobacterial blooms, because of the specific light absorption characteristics of PC around 600–625 nm. In this study, we compared the Landsat 8 OLI’s and Sentinel-3 Ocean and Land Color Instrument’s (OLCI) derived orange band reflectance and PC products corresponding to a same-date overpass during a severe cyanobacterial bloom in Lake Erie, USA. The goal was to determine if the OLI’s virtual orange band can produce results equivalent to the OLCI’s actual orange band. Band-by-band match-ups used the OLI’s top-of-atmosphere (TOA) reflectance versus TOA reflectance from the OLCI, and surface reflectance (SR) from the OLI versus SR from the OLCI. A significant correlation was observed between the OLI’s and OLCI’s derived orange band TOA reflectance (R2 = 0.86; p < 0.001; NRMSE = 9.01%) and orange band SR (R2 = 0.93; p < 0.001; NRMSE = 20.23%). The PC map produced using the best-fit empirical models from both sensors showed similar PC spatial patterns and concentration levels in the western basin of Lake Erie. The results from this research are particularly important for the study of smaller inland waterbodies with the 30 m resolution of the OLI, which cannot be studied with the 300 m resolution of OLCI data, and for analyzing historical bloom events before the launch of the OLCI. Although more analysis and validation need to be conducted, this study opens up Landsat 8’s applicability in research on cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (cyanoHABs).
Multiscale Representation of Observation Error Statistics in Data Assimilation
Authors: Chabot Vincent , Nodet Maëlle , Vidard Arthur
Published: March 2020

Accounting for realistic observation errors is a known bottleneck in data assimilation, because dealing with error correlations is complex. Following a previous study on this subject, we propose to use multiscale modelling, more precisely wavelet transform, to address this question. This study aims to investigate the problem further by addressing two issues arising in real-life data assimilation: how to deal with partially missing data (e.g., concealed by an obstacle between the sensor and the observed system), and how to solve convergence issues associated with complex observation error covariance matrices? Two adjustments relying on wavelets modelling are proposed to deal with those, and offer significant improvements. The first one consists of adjusting the variance coefficients in the frequency domain to account for masked information. The second one consists of a gradual assimilation of frequencies. Both of these fully rely on the multiscale properties associated with wavelet covariance modelling. Numerical results on twin experiments show that multiscale modelling is a promising tool to account for correlations in observation errors in realistic applications.
A Survey of Heart Anomaly Detection Using Ambulatory Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Authors: Li Hongzu , Boulanger Pierre
Published: March 2020

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the number one cause of death globally. An estimated 17.9 million people die from CVDs each year, representing 31% of all global deaths. Most cardiac patients require early detection and treatment. Therefore, many products to monitor patient’s heart conditions have been introduced on the market. Most of these devices can record a patient’s bio-metric signals both in resting and in exercising situations. However, reading the massive amount of raw electrocardiogram (ECG) signals from the sensors is very time-consuming. Automatic anomaly detection for the ECG signals could act as an assistant for doctors to diagnose a cardiac condition. This paper reviews the current state-of-the-art of this technology discusses the pros and cons of the devices and algorithms found in the literature and the possible research directions to develop the next generation of ambulatory monitoring systems.
m-SFT: A Novel Mobile Health System to Assess the Elderly Physical Condition
Authors: Ureña Raquel , Chiclana Francisco , Gonzalez-Alvarez Alvaro , Herrera-Viedma Enrique , Moral-Munoz Jose A.
Published: March 2020

The development of innovative solutions that allow the aging population to remain healthier and independent longer is essential to alleviate the burden that this increasing segment of the population supposes for the long term sustainability of the public health systems. It has been claimed that promoting physical activity could prevent functional decline. However, given the vulnerability of this population, the activity prescription requires to be tailored to the individual’s physical condition. We propose mobile Senior Fitness Test (m-SFT), a novel m-health system, that allows the health practitioner to determine the elderly physical condition by implementing a smartphone-based version of the senior fitness test (SFT). The technical reliability of m-SFT has been tested by carrying out a comparative study in seven volunteers (53–61 years) between the original SFT and the proposed m-health system obtaining high agreement (intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) between 0.93 and 0.99). The system usability has been evaluated by 34 independent health experts (mean = 36.64 years; standard deviation = 6.26 years) by means of the System Usability Scale (SUS) obtaining an average SUS score of 84.4 out of 100. Both results point out that m-SFT is a reliable and easy to use m-health system for the evaluation of the elderly physical condition, also useful in intervention programs to follow-up the patient’s evolution.
The Synchronization Transceiver Design and Experimental Verification for the LuTan-1 SAR Satellite
Authors: Jiao Yuanbo , Liang Da , Liu Kaiyu , Chen Yafeng , Wang Huaizu , Wang Robert
Published: March 2020

The deviation between the two oscillators in BiSAR systems will cause a residual modulation of echo signal. Therefore, the phase synchronization is an important issue that must be addressed for BiSAR systems. An advanced non-interrupted phase synchronization scheme is used for the LuTan-1 SAR satellite. The synchronization transceiver (STR) is designed for transmitting and receiving synchronization signals. In addition, STR mainly consists of master and auxiliary transceivers and switch module. Furthermore, the function and working principle of STR are introduced, and the detailed design of each part is described. The measured results are also evaluated to prove the performance of the STR. In addition, the phase synchronization accuracy is also demonstrated to verify the effectiveness of the non-interrupted synchronization scheme. The standard deviation (STD) of the residual phase is less than 0.3 degrees. The results have guiding significance for the synchronization unit design of LuTan-1 and the future BiSAR system.
Efficient Power Control Framework for Small-Cell Heterogeneous Networks
Authors: Alsafasfeh Qais , Saraereh Omar A. , Ali Ashraf , Al-Tarawneh Luae , Khan Imran , Silva Adão
Published: March 2020

Heterogeneous networks are rapidly emerging as one of the key enablers of beyond fifth-generation (5G) wireless networks. It is gradually becoming clear to the network operators that existing cellular networks may not be able to support the traffic demands of the future. Thus, there is an upsurge in the interest of efficiently deploying small-cell networks for accommodating a growing number of user equipment (UEs). This work further extends the state-of-the-art by proposing an optimization framework for reducing the power consumption of small-cell base stations (BSs). Specifically, a novel algorithm has been proposed which dynamically switches off the redundant small-cell BSs based on the traffic demands of the network. Due to the dynamicity of the formulated problem, a new UE admission control policy has been presented when the problem becomes infeasible to solve. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed solution, the simulation results are compared with conventional techniques. It is shown that the proposed power control solution outperforms the conventional approaches both in terms of accommodating more UEs and reducing power consumption.
Microcavity Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy of Fullerene C60 Bucky Balls
Authors: Damle Vinayaka H. , Sinwani Miri , Aviv Hagit , Tischler Yaakov R.
Published: March 2020

Raman spectroscopy is a widely used characterization technique in material science. It is a non-destructive tool with relatively simple instrumentation, and provides intrinsic qualitative information of analytes by probing their vibrational modes. In many cases, Raman enhancement is essential for detecting low-intensity signals in high-noise environments, spectrally unresolved features, and hidden modes. Here we present optical and Raman spectroscopic characterization of fullerene C 60 in a gold microcavity. The fabrication of single-layered gold mirrors is facile, low cost and direct but was proven to give considerably significant enhancement. The findings of this work demonstrate the cavity resonance as a powerful tool in obtaining tunability over individual peak for selective enhancement in the tuned spectral range. The PL of the material within the cavity has demonstrated a red shift assumed to be caused by the low-energy transitions. These transitions are induced by virtual low-energy states generated by the cavity. We further observe that adopting this principle enables resolution of active Raman modes that until now were unobserved. Finally, we assigned the new experimentally observed modes to the corresponding motions calculated by DFT.
Low-Cost Piezoelectric Sensors for Time Domain Load Monitoring of Metallic Structures During Operational and Maintenance Processes
Authors: Perez-Alfaro Irene , Gil-Hernandez Daniel , Muñoz-Navascues Oscar , Casbas-Gimenez Jesus , Sanchez-Catalan Juan Carlos , Murillo Nieves
Published: March 2020

The versatility of piezoelectric sensors in measurement techniques and their performance in applications has given rise to an increased interest in their use for structural and manufacturing component monitoring. They enable wireless and sensor network solutions to be developed in order to directly integrate the sensors into machines, fixtures and tools. Piezoelectric sensors increasingly compete with strain-gauges due to their wide operational temperature range, load and strain sensing accuracy, low power consumption and low cost. This research sets out the use of piezoelectric sensors for real-time monitoring of mechanical strength in metallic structures in the ongoing operational control of machinery components. The behaviour of aluminium and steel structures under flexural strength was studied using piezoelectric sensors. Variations in structural behaviour and geometry were measured, and the load and μstrains during operational conditions were quantified in the time domain at a specific frequency. The lead zirconium titanate (PZT) sensors were able to distinguish between material types and thicknesses. Moreover, this work covers frequency selection and optimisation from 20 Hz to 300 kHz. Significant differences in terms of optimal operating frequencies and sensitivity were found in both structures. The influence of the PZT voltage applied was assessed to reduce power consumption without signal loss, and calibration to μstrains and loads was performed.
Effects of Whole-Body Electromyostimulation on Physical Fitness in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Pano-Rodriguez Alvaro , Beltran-Garrido Jose Vicente , Hernandez-Gonzalez Vicenç , Reverter-Masia Joaquín
Published: March 2020

Whole-body electromyostiulation (WB-EMS) has experienced a boom in recent years, even though its effectiveness is controversial. A sedentary lifestyle is deeply rooted in the European population, mainly in the elderly. This experimental study analyzed the impact of WB-EMS on the physical fitness of postmenopausal women. Thirty-four healthy sedentary women between 55 and 69 years followed an experimental design pre–post-test. Both groups conducted a ten-week aerobic and strength training program. The experimental group overlaid the WB-EMS during exercise. At the end of the intervention, both groups improved upper and lower body strength, lower extremity flexibility, agility, and speed levels (pBonferroni < 0.05). Significant interactions were observed at upper and lower body strength, agility, speed, and cardiovascular endurance (p < 0.05). The WB-EMS group scored better agility than the control group at the end of the intervention (pBonferroni < 0.05) and was the only group that improved cardiovascular endurance. WB-EMS shows a favorable isolate effect on the development of dynamic leg strength, agility, and cardiovascular endurance but did not in dynamic arm strength, gait speed, balance, or flexibility of postmenopausal women.
A High Reliability 3D Scanning Measurement of the Complex Shape Rail Surface of the Electromagnetic Launcher
Authors: Wang Zhaoxin , Li Baoming
Published: March 2020

After an electromagnetic railgun launch, a series of damage phenomena may cause the inner bore surface to become complex, such as gouging and deposition. Furthermore, the rail surface will be uneven and blackened by oxidation. To understand these forms of rail degradation, many previous studies have mentioned several surface scanning methods, but none of these can be used in the complex inner bore. Therefore, we present a 3D scanning system based on binocular stereovision technology combined with the active illumination, which can be used to obtain the rail surface topography under a complex inner bore environment. The laser dot projection is applied as the active illumination. In contrast with other active illumination, laser dot projection has high reconstruction reliability. By combining laser dot projection with binocular stereovision, the object can be completely reconstructed. In addition, an image acquisition method which can improve image signal-to-noise ratio is proposed. The proof-of-principle experiment of the system is done under dim light conditions. Through the experiment, the 3D depth map of the rail surface is obtained and the gouge crater is scanned out. Meanwhile, system evaluation and measurement uncertainty analysis have also been carried out.
Helicity Enhanced Torsion Sensor Based on Liquid Filled Twisted Photonic Crystal Fibers
Authors: Zhang Feng , Wang Ying , Bai Zhiyong , Liu Shen , Fu Cailing , Huang Yijian , Liao Changrui , Wang Yiping
Published: March 2020

A highly sensitive torsion sensor can be constructed by combining a twisted photonic crystal fiber with a liquid-filled waveguide in its air-hole cladding. The torsion sensitivity of this type of sensor is determined directly by the phase-matching conditions between the fiber core mode and the liquid waveguide mode, which can be improved by tuning the helicity (denoted by the initial twist rate, α0) of the twisted photonic crystal fiber. The enhancement mechanism of α0 on the sensitivity of the proposed torsion sensor is investigated theoretically, followed by experimental verifications, and a torsion sensitivity as high as 446 nm∙mm∙rad−1 can be obtained by tailoring these parameters. Experimental results show that the torsion sensitivity increases with α0 decreasing from 3.142 to 3.925 rad/mm, which are in consistence with that of the numerical predictions. The demonstrated torsion sensor is expected to contribute to the development of highly sensitive torsion-related photonic crystal fiber devices.
Classification of Pain Event Related Potential for Evaluation of Pain Perception Induced by Electrical Stimulation
Authors: Tripanpitak Kornkanok , Viriyavit Waranrach , Huang Shao Ying , Yu Wenwei
Published: March 2020

Variability in individual pain sensitivity is a major problem in pain assessment. There have been studies reported using pain-event related potential (pain-ERP) for evaluating pain perception. However, none of them has achieved high accuracy in estimating multiple pain perception levels. A major reason lies in the lack of investigation of feature extraction. The goal of this study is to assess four different pain perception levels through classification of pain-ERP, elicited by transcutaneous electrical stimulation on healthy subjects. Nonlinear methods: Higuchi’s fractal dimension, Grassberger-Procaccia correlation dimension, with auto-correlation, and moving variance functions were introduced into the feature extraction. Fisher score was used to select the most discriminative channels and features. As a result, the correlation dimension with a moving variance without channel selection achieved the best accuracies of 100% for both the two-level and the three-level classification but degraded to 75% for the four-level classification. The best combined feature group is the variance-based one, which achieved accuracy of 87.5% and 100% for the four-level and three-level classification, respectively. Moreover, the features extracted from less than 20 trials could not achieve sensible accuracy, which makes it difficult for an instantaneous pain perception levels evaluation. These results show strong evidence on the possibility of objective pain assessment using nonlinear feature-based classification of pain-ERP.
Characterization of the Observational Covariance Matrix of Hyper-Spectral Infrared Satellite Sensors Directly from Measured Earth Views
Authors: Serio Carmine , Masiello Guido , Mastro Pietro , Tobin David C.
Published: March 2020

The observational covariance matrix, whose diagonal square root is currently named radiometric noise, is one of the most important elements to characterize a given instrument. It determines the precision of measurements and their possible spectral inter-correlation. The characterization of this matrix is currently performed with blackbody targets of known temperature and is, therefore, an output of the calibration unit of the instrument system. We developed a methodology that can estimate the observational covariance matrix directly from calibrated Earth-scene observations. The technique can complement the usual analysis based on onboard blackbody calibration and is, therefore, a useful back up to check the overall quality of the calibration unit. The methodology was exemplified by application to three satellite Fourier transform spectrometers: IASI (Infrared Atmospheric Sounder Interferometer), CrIS (Cross-Track Infrared Sounder), and HIRAS (Hyperspectral Infrared Atmospheric Sounder). It was shown that these three instruments are working as expected based on the pre-flight and in-flight characterization of the radiometric noise. However, for all instruments, the analysis of the covariance matrix reveals extra correlation among channels, especially in the short wave spectral regions.
Cytotoxicity of Standardized Curcuminoids Mixture against Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Cell Line SKOV-3
Authors: Almosa Heba , Alqriqri Mihal , Denetiu Iuliana , Baghdadi Mohammed A. , Alkhaled Mohammed , Alhosin Mahmoud , Aldajani Wejdan A. , Zamzami Mazin , Ucisik Mehmet H. , Damiati Samar
Published: March 2020

Herbal medicine has been in use for centuries for a wide variety of ailments; however, the efficacy of its therapeutic agents in modern medicine is currently being studied. Curcuminoids are an example of natural agents, widely used due to their potential contribution in the prevention and treatment of cancer. In this study, the three main compounds of curcuminoids—curcumin, desmethoxycurcumin, and bisdesmethoxycurcumin—were determined by reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to quantify total content in a mixture. Subsequently, the effect of the three curcuminoids, employed as one sample, was evaluated, to study the proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, and migration of the human ovarian cancer cell line SKOV-3. The results reveal that curcuminoids inhibit the proliferation of SKOV-3 cells with concentration- and time-dependent mechanisms. The morphological analysis of the treated SKOV-3 cells showed a typical apoptotic phenotype—cell shrinkage and membrane blebbing in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, flow cytometry demonstrated an increase in apoptosis with an IC50 of 30 µM curcuminoids. The migration of SKOV-3 cells was also inhibited, reflected by a decrease in wound area. Furthermore, the curcuminoids were found to have no stimulation effect on the expression of cytokines TNF-α and IL-10. These results suggest that a curcuminoid mixture can effectively suppress epithelial cancer cell growth in vitro by inducing cellular changes and apoptosis.
Managing the Risk of Food Waste in Foodservice Establishments
Authors: Bilska Beata , Tomaszewska Marzena , Kołożyn-Krajewska Danuta
Published: March 2020

Although it is difficult to clearly identify the extent to which the foodservice industry contributes to food waste, its share is undoubtedly significant. As the hospitality and foodservice industry develops, more and more food waste is produced. The reduction of food waste is a key challenge for the sustainable development of the foodservice industry as it has negative economic and environmental impacts and is ethically reprehensible. The objectives of the study were to develop a risk management model of food waste based on the ISO 31000 standard for foodservice establishments, to learn the causes of food waste, and, on this basis, to estimate the risk of food waste in foodservice establishments. The survey was conducted in 130 foodservice establishments located in Poland using a specially designed questionnaire. The risk of food waste was identified in the studied foodservice establishments, manifested by throwing away of semi-finished products, hot and cold served dishes, bread, vegetables and fruit, expired products, products with signs of spoilage, and products with no visible signs of spoilage. Two risk levels were identified: medium risk for fruits and vegetables, and bread, and high (not acceptable) for the other six foodstuffs. Two risk treatment options were identified: prevention and tolerance.
Museums and Coping with Overtourism
Authors: Murzyn-Kupisz Monika , Hołuj Dominika
Published: March 2020

Newer strains of tourism research are often aimed at finding out good practices for dealing with overtourism and propose a broader understanding of stakeholders of sustainable tourism development. Drawing on qualitative empirical findings from two institutions located in major tourism hubs in Poland, the authors inquire to what extent negative impacts of overtourism can be mitigated by museums. As the findings indicate, museums provide the commercial sector with good examples of conservation and adaptation of historic buildings to contemporary functions and encourage environmentally friendly behaviors. They can contribute to the quality of heritage narration and the quality of merchandise offered to tourists. They may have an impact on community cohesion and local residents’ quality of life as well as encourage immaterial heritage practices. Lastly, museums may exert indirect impact on transformations of urban space by getting involved in strategic planning and discussions on contemporary challenges of urban development.
Relevance of Skills in Total Quality Management in Engineering Studies as a Tool for Performing Their Jobs
Authors: Martínez-Gómez Mónica , Jabaloyes Vivas José Manuel , Carrión García Andrés
Published: March 2020

The Spanish higher education system needs to adapt to the requirements of the European Higher Education Area and to this end, it is necessary for higher education institutions to improve the quality of university education, leading to an increase in competency-based learning activities aimed at developing the skills of graduates. Since university graduates face a large number of requirements when entering the labour market, they need to develop and constantly update the appropriate skills to carry out their work properly. This paper aims to address two fundamental questions. First, do engineering graduates need acquired skills in Total Quality Management (TQM) to perform their jobs successfully? Secondly, which job profile requires the highest level of Total Quality Management training and knowledge? We carried out different multivariate statistical analyses using a sample of engineering graduates who had been in the labour market for two years. The results show that knowledge of this type of management philosophy is necessary for adequate job performance. The job profile requiring the highest level of skills in TQM is described.
Tillage Intensity Effects on Soil Structure Indicators—A US Meta-Analysis
Authors: Nunes Márcio R. , Karlen Douglas L. , Moorman Thomas B.
Published: March 2020

Tillage intensity affects soil structure in many ways but the magnitude and type (+/−) of change depends on site-specific (e.g., soil type) and experimental details (crop rotation, study length, sampling depth, etc.). This meta-analysis examines published effects of chisel plowing (CP), no-tillage (NT) and perennial cropping systems (PER) relative to moldboard plowing (MP) on three soil structure indicators: wet aggregate stability (AS), bulk density (BD) and soil penetration resistance (PR). The data represents four depth increments (from 0 to >40-cm) in 295 studies from throughout the continental U.S. Overall, converting from MP to CP did not affect those soil structure indicators but reducing tillage intensity from MP to NT increased AS in the surface (<15-cm) and slightly decreased BD and PR below 25-cm. The largest positive effect of NT on AS was observed within Inceptisols and Entisols after a minimum of three years. Compared to MP, NT had a minimal effect on soil compaction indicators (BD and PR) but as expected, converting from MP to PER systems improved soil structure at all soil depths (0 to >40-cm). Among those three soil structure indicators, AS was the most sensitive to management practices; thus, it should be used as a physical indicator for overall soil health assessment. In addition, based on this national meta-analysis, we conclude that reducing tillage intensity improves soil structure, thus offering producers assurance those practices are feasible for crop production and that they will also help sustain soil resources.
Evaluating the Relationship between Fruit and Vegetable Growers Use of Plastic Biodegradable Mulches, and Environmental Stewardship and Labor Savings: The Case of Tennessee Fruit and Vegetable Farmers
Authors: Velandia Margarita , Rejesus Roderick , Clark Christopher , DeLong Karen L. , Wszelaki Annette , Schexnayder Susan , Jensen Kimberly
Published: March 2020

The substitution of polyethylene (PE) mulch for plastic biodegradable mulches (BDMs) in fruit and vegetable production has the potential to reduce the negative environmental impacts associated with PE mulch use, and the overall sustainability of fruit and vegetable production. A better understanding of the factors associated with BDM use could inform efforts to promote the use of BDMs. The main goal of this study is to assess the correlation between the use of BDMs among fruit and vegetable farmers, and labor savings and environmental stewardship. Using data from a Tennessee fruit and vegetable farmer survey and probit regressions, this study evaluates the correlation between the use of BDMs, and the labor savings associated with the use of BDMs and farmer environmental stewardship, after controlling for farmer and farmer business characteristics. Results suggest that farm size, farmer environmental stewardship, and labor savings from BDM use are strongly correlated with the use of BDMs among Tennessee fruit and vegetable growers, specifically among those farmers who are more likely to have previous experience using PE mulch.
Effect of Floor Shape Optimization on Energy Consumption for U-Shaped Office Buildings in the Hot-Summer and Cold-Winter Area of China
Authors: Ying Xiaoyu , Li Wenzhe
Published: March 2020

This paper explored the effects of the side proportion of building floor shape on building energy consumption. It is based on the analysis of regression models that were developed in the present study. The simplified building models can be used to conduct a parametric study to investigate the effect of building plane shape parameters on total heating and cooling load. DesignBuilder was used to build and simulate individual building configuration. Energy consumption simulations for forty-eight U-shaped buildings with different plane layouts were performed to create a comprehensive dataset covering general ranges of side proportions of U-shaped buildings and building orientations. Statistical analysis was performed using MATLAB to develop a set of regression equations predicting energy consumption and optimizing floor shapes. Furthermore, perimeter-area ratio (PAR), width ratio, and depth ratio were considered as three factors to characterize the quantitative relationship between floor shape and energy consumption. It is envisioned that the binary quadratic polynomial regression models, visualized as a smooth surface in space and mapped to a vortex image on the plane, can be used to estimate the energy consumption in the early stages of the design when different building schemes and design concepts are being considered.