bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Subjective Multiple Criteria Decision-Making Approach for Modeling Ship Hull Vibration
Authors: Godaliyadde D. , Godaliyadde L.B. , Phylip-Jones G. , Yang Z.L. , Batako A.D. , Wang J.
Published: October 2011

AbstractThis article presents a subjective, novel approach to deal with multiple criterion ship design decision making on the basis of interval data. In this novel approach, quantitative interval- and single-valued criteria are modeled and transformed into qualitative criteria
by using membership functions of continuous fuzzy sets. Mapping is provided to transform criteria onto a common utility space. All the interval-valued qualitative criteria are transformed by proposing a new algorithm to represent them with a single value for each linguistic term. Normalization
is carried out for all the transformed criteria. By combining all the normalized data, an evidential reasoning algorithm is applied to synthesize the generic ship design criteria. Finally, an ER-based utility ranking approach is used to select the ship with the best design criteria on the
basis of the risk estimation results of ship hull vibration. The results of this research reveal that the developed approach is suitable for dealing with a ship selection problem based on the risk estimation results of ship hull vibration.
Building the IOOS® Data Management Subsystem
Authors: de La Beaujardière Jeff , Mendelssohn Roy , Ortiz Carmel , Signell Richard
Published: October 2011

AbstractWe discuss progress to date and plans for the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS®) Data Management and Communications (DMAC) subsystem. We begin by presenting a conceptual architecture of IOOS DMAC. We describe work done as part of a 3-year pilot
project known as the Data Integration Framework and the subsequent assessment of lessons learned. We present work that has been accomplished as part of the initial version of the IOOS Data Catalog. Finally, we discuss near-term plans for augmenting IOOS DMAC capabilities.
Developing an Education and Outreach Program for the U.S. IOOS®: Eyes on the Ocean, Hands-On Learning
Authors: Simoniello Christina , Spence Lundie , Deans Nora , McDonnell Janice
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe National Federation of Regional Associations for Coastal and Ocean Observing (NFRA) is the organization charged with building the regional component of the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS®). Because IOOS is a user-driven system, understanding
the needs of regional stakeholders is fundamental to its success. The job of promoting awareness and use of IOOS data largely falls to the regional education and outreach coordinators, at least for those Regional Associations (RAs) fortunate enough to have one. This article is designed (1)
to describe how the NFRA Education and Outreach Committee originated, (2) to provide suggestions to create a strategic approach to the evaluation of IOOS education and outreach products and programs, and (3) to describe the “lessons learned” from the many collaborations. A case
study related to the Transocean Ltd.-owned/British Petroleum-leased Deepwater Horizon oil spill is described to demonstrate the societal value of RAs and their ability to serve as rapid responders during crisis events.
A Regional Slocum Glider Network in the Mid-Atlantic Bight Leverages Broad Community Engagement
Authors: Schofield Oscar , Kohut Josh , Glenn Scott , Morell Julio , Capella Jorge , Corredor Jorge , Orcutt John , Arrott Mathew , Krueger Ingolf , Meisinger Michael , Peach Cheryl , Vernon Frank , Chave Alan , Chao Yi , Chien Steve , Thompson David , Brown Wendell , Oliver Mathew , Boicourt William
Published: October 2011

AbstractAutonomous underwater gliders have proven to be a cost-effective technology for measuring the 3-D ocean and now represent a critical component during the design and implementation of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Ocean Observing System (MARCOOS), a Region of the U.S.
Integrated Ocean Observing System. The gliders have been conducting regional surveys of the Mid-Atlantic (MA) Bight, and during the 3 years of MARCOOS, the glider fleet has conducted 22 missions spanning 10,867 km and collecting 62,824 vertical profiles of data. In addition to collecting regional
data, the gliders have facilitated collaboration for partners outside of MARCOOS. The existence of the MA glider observatory provided a unique test bed for cyber-infrastructure tools being developed as part of the National Science Foundation’s Ocean Observatory Initiative. This effort
allowed the Ocean Observatory Initiative software to integrate the MARCOOS assets and provided a successful demonstration of an ocean sensor net. The hands-on experience of the MA glider technicians supported training and provided assistance of collaborators within the Caribbean Regional Association,
also a region of the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System, to assess the efficacy of gliders to resolve internal waves. Finally, the glider fleet has enabled sensor development and testing in a cost-effective manner. Generally, new sensors were tested within the MARCOOS domain before they
were deployed in more extreme locations throughout the world’s oceans. On the basis of this experience, the goal of the MARCOOS glider team will be to expand the MA network in coming years. The potential of how an expanded network of gliders might serve national needs was illustrated
during the 2010 Macondo Gulf of Mexico oil spill, where gliders from many institutions collected subsurface mesoscale data to support regional models and oil response planning. The experience gained over the last 5 years suggests that it is time to develop a national glider network.
The Integrated Ocean Observing System‐Industry Relationship: From Strong to Stronger
Authors: Duncan Darrell , Titlow Jay , Le Steven , Toll Ray , Rayder Scott
Published: October 2011

AbstractAn Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS®) is recognized by industry as a national priority. Examples are cited illustrating why IOOS matters to industry and why industry matters to IOOS. Industry not only builds the tools necessary to build and maintain
a national observing system but is addressing the national deficiency in science data management, making internal investments to investigate new and more sophisticated quality control procedures and data integration techniques. Of the many case studies, three are chosen to highlight how industry
and IOOS have benefited: WeatherFlow Inc.’s involvement in several IOOS projects, including the construction of a coastal observing system for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands through Caribbean Area Regional Association; Science Applications International Corporation’s development
of the IOOS national backbone through its work at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Data Buoy Center; and Science Applications International Corporation’s engagement in the construction of a regional data management and communication capability to integrate
Central and Northern California Ocean Observing Regional Association’s various data sources into a cohesive data assembly center. This article makes the case that the more businesses that are spawned using the IOOS engine (dollars, data, and expertise), the more IOOS will be a U.S. program
that the taxpayer values as a key driver of commerce.
Operation and Application of a Regional High-Frequency Radar Network in the Mid-Atlantic Bight
Authors: Roarty Hugh , Glenn Scott , Kohut Josh , Gong Donglai , Handel Ethan , Rivera Erick , Garner Teresa , Atkinson Larry , Brown Wendell , Jakubiak Chris , Muglia Mike , Haines Sara , Seim Harvey
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe Mid-Atlantic Regional Coastal Ocean Observing System (MARCOOS) High-Frequency Radar Network, which comprises 13 long-range sites, 2 medium-range sites, and 12 standard-range sites, is operated as part of the Integrated Ocean Observing System. This regional implementation
of the network has been operational for 2 years and has matured to the point where the radars provide consistent coverage from Cape Cod to Cape Hatteras. A concerted effort was made in the MARCOOS project to increase the resiliency of the radar stations from the elements, power issues, and
other issues that can disable the hardware of the system. The quality control and assurance activities in the Mid-Atlantic Bight have been guided by the needs of the Coast Guard Search and Rescue Office. As of May 4, 2009, these quality-controlled MARCOOS High-Frequency Radar totals are being
served through the Coast Guard’s Environmental Data Server to the Coast Guard Search and Rescue Optimal Planning System. In addition to the service to U.S. Coast Guard Search and Rescue Operations, these data support water quality, physical oceanographic, and fisheries research throughout
the Mid-Atlantic Bight.
A Simple, Effective Project Selection System for the Alaska Ocean Observing System
Authors: Colt Steve , Fay Ginny , McCammon Molly
Published: October 2011

AbstractThis article describes a simple but effective project prioritization and selection system developed and used by the Alaska Ocean Observing System (AOOS) (www.aoos.org), one of eleven regional systems within the
national Integrated Ocean Observation System (www.ioos.gov). Because Alaska has 71,000 km of coastline, extreme weather, and limited existing infrastructure, developing and operating a fully functioning ocean observing system will be challenging
and quite costly. With AOOS’s recent annual budgets averaging only about $1.5 million (including program administrative costs), the AOOS Board must choose which projects to fund first from a long list of candidates. Working with staff, the board developed a project selection system
that integrates scientific and socioeconomic criteria and seeks to balance benefits, costs, and risks. That system draws on consultation with information users and on analyses by both scientific and socioeconomic technical advisory committees. The board found the system to be efficient and
effective; it may be useful to other programs and regions developing coastal ocean observing systems.
The Trans-Atlantic Slocum Glider Expeditions: A Catalyst for Undergraduate Participation in Ocean Science and Technology
Authors: Glenn Scott , Schofield Oscar , Kohut Josh , McDonnell Janice , Ludescher Richard , Seidel Dena , Aragon David , Haskins Tina , Handel Ethan , Haldeman Clinton , Heifetz Igor , Kerfoot John , Lemus Erick , Lictenwalner Sage , Ojanen Lisa , Roarty Hugh , Carvalho Filipa , Lopez Alvaro , Martin Adri , Jones Clayton , Webb Douglass , Miller Jerry , Lewis Marlon , McLean Scott , Martins Ana , Barrera Carlos , Ramos Antonio , Fanjul Enrique
Published: October 2011

AbstractResults of Office of Naval Research (ONR)- and National Science Foundation (NSF)-sponsored collaborative coastal science experiments using underwater gliders were reported at the E.U./U.S. Baltic Sea conference in 2006. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
(NOAA) recognized the parallel educational potential and issued a trans-Atlantic challenge—modify one of the coastal gliders and fly it across the Atlantic, entraining and inspiring students along the way. Leveraging the experience of the NSF Centers for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence,
a needs assessment process guided the development of a new undergraduate research program based on the cognitive apprenticeship model. The generalized model was applied to the specific opportunities provided by the trans-Atlantic challenge, involving students in every aspect of the missions.
Students participated in the modifications and testing required to increase glider endurance and in the development of the mission planning tools. Scientist and student teams conducted three long-duration missions: (1) RU15’s flight from New Jersey to Nova Scotia to test the lithium
batteries and ruggedized fin technology in storms, (2) RU17’s first attempt at the Atlantic crossing that provided the lessons learned, and (3) RU27’s successful trans-Atlantic flight a year later. Post-flight activities included development of new intuitive glider data visualization
software that enabled students to analyze the glider data and compare it with ocean forecast models, enabling students to create their own new knowledge. Lessons learned include the significant gains achieved by engaging students early, encouraging them to work as teams, giving them the tools
to make their own discoveries, and developing a near-peer mentoring community for increasing retention and diversity. The success has inspired an even broader vision for international glider missions, that of a glider-enabled global classroom to repeat the track of the HMS Challenger
and its first scientific circumnavigation of the globe.
The Value of Ocean Surface Wind Information for Maritime Commerce
Authors: Kite-Powell Hauke
Published: October 2011

AbstractObservations, nowcasts, and forecasts of ocean surface wind conditions are of economic value to activities such as maritime transportation, commercial fishing, offshore energy, recreational boating, and search and rescue. In this paper, we estimate the value to the
maritime shipping industry of ocean surface wind information and of wind and wave condition forecasts based on this information. Commercial ships transiting the North Pacific and North Atlantic oceans are exposed to severe wind and wave conditions associated with extratropical storms. These
storms impose costs on maritime commerce by delaying and sometimes damaging vessels or causing loss of cargo. Ocean surface wind information allows ships to limit their exposure to these conditions. We estimate that average expected annual losses to container shipping (lost containers and
associated damage to vessels) in the absence of good information about extratropical storm conditions would be on the order of $250 million/year in the North Pacific and $120 million/year in the North Atlantic, and we estimate average expected annual losses to bulk shipping operations
from extratropical storm exposure in these regions to be on the order of $150 million/year. A significant fraction of this risk can be avoided with ocean surface vector wind observations and forecasts. Our model results suggest that the QuikSCAT information (available until November
2009) and associated forecasts enabled a reduction in annual exposure for shipping traffic in the North Atlantic and North Pacific of about 50%, with total annual net savings around $150 million. The estimate of annual benefits to shipping operations from a hypothetical improved satellite
instrument is around $200 million.
Successful Integration Efforts in Water Quality From the Integrated Ocean Observing System Regional Associations and the National Water Quality Monitoring Network
Authors: Ragsdale Rob , Vowinkel Eric , Porter Dwayne , Hamilton Pixie , Morrison Ru , Kohut Josh , Connell Bob , Kelsey Heath , Trowbridge Phil
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS®) Regional Associations and Interagency Partners hosted a water quality workshop in January 2010 to discuss issues of nutrient enrichment and dissolved oxygen depletion (hypoxia), harmful algal blooms (HABs),
and beach water quality. In 2007, the National Water Quality Monitoring Council piloted demonstration projects as part of the National Water Quality Monitoring Network (Network) for U.S. Coastal Waters and their Tributaries in three IOOS Regional Associations, and these projects are ongoing.
Examples of integrated science-based solutions to water quality issues of major concern from the IOOS regions and Network demonstration projects are explored in this article. These examples illustrate instances where management decisions have benefited from decision-support tools that make
use of interoperable data. Gaps, challenges, and outcomes are identified, and a proposal is made for future work toward a multiregional water quality project for beach water quality.
Alliance for Coastal Technologies: Advancing Moored pCO2 Instruments in Coastal Waters
Authors: Tamburri Mario N. , Johengen Thomas H. , Atkinson Marlin J. , Schar Daniel W. H. , Robertson Charles Y. , Purcell Heidi , Smith G. Jason , Pinchuk Alexei , Buckley Earle N.
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe Alliance for Coastal Technologies (ACT) has been established to support innovation and to provide the information required to select the most appropriate tools for studying and monitoring coastal and ocean environments. ACT is a consortium of nationally prominent
ocean science and technology institutions and experts who provide credible performance data of these technologies through third-party, objective testing. ACT technology verifications include laboratory and field tests over short- and long-term deployments of commercial technologies in diverse
environments to provide unequivocal, unbiased confirmation that technologies meet key performance requirements. ACT demonstrations of new technologies validate the technology concept and help eliminate performance problems before operational introduction. ACT’s most recent demonstration
of pCO2 sensors is an example of how ACT advances the evolution of ocean observing technologies, in this case to address the critical issue of ocean acidification, and promotes more informed decision making on technology capabilities and choices.
Interdisciplinary Ocean Observing on the Texas Coast
Authors: Mullins R. L. , DiMarco S. F. , Walpert J. , Guinasso N. L.
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe Integrated Ocean Observing System® is necessary to oceanography and vital for understanding spatial and temporal scales of important environmental and climate processes. However, many state-of-the-art ocean observing system (OOS) technologies are
operationally constrained in shallow coastal waters. Texas A&M University (TAMU) researchers are overcoming the constraint by combining traditional platforms with modern shipboard OOS. Shipboard observations provide the spatial context and are complemented by moored observations providing
the temporal context of spatial observations. In the northern Gulf of Mexico (GOM), OOS provide researchers with large, continuous spatial and temporal data sets to investigate naturally occurring environmental events. The summer of 2010 has been a unique season for researchers in the GOM
with the British Petroleum oil spill off the Louisiana coast and the shift of seasonal wind and precipitation events along the western GOM coastline impacting the formation and sustainability of a common hazard on the Texas‐Louisiana shelf—hypoxia. Such events have and are currently
emphasizing an environmental revitalization of coastal GOM OOS to better monitor and predict unexpected events directly impacting coastal waters. This manuscript describes TAMU’s existing interdisciplinary operating OOS and supplemental instrumentation added to address spatial and temporal
scales of northern GOM coastal hazards. Details also will be included in TAMU’s future directions as an OOS leader on the Texas shelf and in how OOS plays vital role in community education and awareness of the coastal oceans.
Satellite Imaging and Passive Acoustics in Layered Approach for Small Boat Detection and Classification
Authors: Bruno Michael , Sutin Alexander , Chung Kil Woo , Sedunov Alexander , Sedunov Nikolay , Salloum Hady , Graber Hans , Mallas Paul
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe research being conducted in the Center for Secure and Resilient Maritime Commerce, a Department of Homeland Security National Center of Excellence for Port Security, examines some basic science issues and emerging technologies to improve the security of ports
and inland waterways as well as coastal and offshore operations. This research follows a layered approach, utilizing above-water and underwater surveillance techniques. The investigated layers include satellite-based wide-area surveillance, high-frequency radar systems providing over-the-horizon
monitoring, and nearshore and harbor passive acoustic surveillance. In this paper, we present a brief review of the Stevens research in passive acoustics aimed at achieving underwater and surface targets detection, classification, and tracking. The passive acoustic data were combined with
satellite imagery provided by the University of Miami CSTARS facility’s electro-optical and synthetic aperture radar satellite imaging capabilities. Advantages of concurrent use of satellite imaging and passive acoustics for maritime domain awareness are analyzed.
A Cognitive Process Architecture Framework for Secure and Resilient Seaport Operations
Authors: Mostashari Ali , Nilchiani Roshanak , Omer Mayada , Andalibi Nazanin , Heydari Babak
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe ability of a seaport to maximize its security and resilience depends on the availability of the right information at the right time for the right stakeholder. The multiplicity of stakeholders in a seaport, including terminal operators, federal agencies, state
agencies, and local law enforcement authorities, often results in fragmented information flows that do not allow for a systemic response to natural disasters, malicious attacks, or accidents. This challenge can be mitigated by shifting more towards a cognitive seaport that adapts its behavior
based on past experience and is able to sense, understand, and respond to changes in its environment. In this paper, we propose the Cognitive Process Architecture Framework, which allows seaport stakeholders to sense changes/events, perceive operational scenarios, choose response alternatives
based on tradeoffs, and monitor the implementation of the responses.
Development of a Flexible Command and Control Software Architecture for Marine Robotic Applications
Authors: Bingham Brian S. , Walls Jeffrey M. , Eustice Ryan M.
Published: October 2011

AbstractThis paper reports the implementation of a supervisory control framework and modular software architecture built around the lightweight communication and marshalling (LCM) publish/subscribe message passing system. In particular, we examine two diverse marine robotics
applications using this modular system: (i) the development of an unmanned port security vehicle, a robotic surface platform to support first responders reacting to transportation security incidents in harbor environments, and (ii) the adaptation of a commercial off-the-shelf autonomous underwater
vehicle (the Ocean-Server Iver2) for visual feature-based navigation. In both cases, the modular vehicle software infrastructures are based around the open-source LCM software library for low-latency, real-time message passing. To elucidate the real-world application of LCM in marine robotic
systems, we present the software architecture of these two successful marine robotic applications and illustrate the capabilities and flexibilities of this approach to real-time marine robotics. We present benchmarking test results comparing the throughput of LCM with the Mission-Oriented
Operating Suite, another robot software system popular in marine robotics. Experimental results demonstrate the capacity of the LCM framework to make large amounts of actionable information available to the operator and to allow for distributed supervisory control. We also provide a discussion
of the qualitative tradeoffs involved in selecting software infrastructure for supervisory control.
Optimizing and Validating High-Frequency Radar Surface Current Measurements in the Mona Passage
Authors: Corredor Jorge E. , Amador Andre , Canals Miguel , Rivera Samuel , Capella Jorge E. , Morell Julio M. , Glenn Scott , Roarty Hugh , Handel Ethan , Lemus Erick Rivera
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe Mona Passage is a major shipping lane to the Panama Canal and a key route for illegal traffic into the United States. We have emplaced two high-frequency radar (HFR) stations on the west coast of Puerto Rico intended to allow mapping of the ocean surface velocity
field of the eastern Mona Passage and to explore its performance in vessel detection and tracking. The array provides coverage of the southeastern quadrant of the Passage extending west to Mona Island and north to Rincon. Hourly results are posted online in near-real time. To optimize our
results, we twice measured the antenna beam patterns and applied these corrections to the resulting radial returns. To assess the basic capability of the Mona Passage HFR array to measure surface currents in this tropical environment, we undertook validation measurements, including repeated
deployment of Lagrangian drifters, deployment of an acoustic Doppler current profiler, and comparison with modeled tidal currents. Our experimental measurements showed good agreement to both modeled and in situ data lending confidence to the area-wide surface current maps generated
by this system. Repeated measurements showed limited temporal variability of antenna distortion patterns, demonstrating that these are in large part the product of the surrounding environment. Comparison between a numerical particle tracking algorithm and experimental Lagrangian trajectories
showed mixed results, with better agreement during periods of low intrahour variability in current direction than during periods of rapid tidal reversal.
Modeling of Artificial Aurelia aurita Bell Deformation
Authors: Joshi Keyur B. , Villanueva Alex , Smith Colin F. , Priya Shashank
Published: October 2011

AbstractRecently, there has been significant interest in developing underwater vehicles inspired by jellyfish. One of these notable efforts includes the artificial Aurelia aurita (Robojelly). The artificial A. aurita is able to swim with similar proficiency
to the A. aurita species of jellyfish even though its deformation profile does not completely match the natural animal. In order to overcome this problem, we provide a systematic finite element model (FEM) to simulate the transient behavior of the artificial A. aurita vehicle
utilizing bio-inspired shape memory alloy composite (BISMAC) actuators. The finite element simulation model accurately captures the hyperelastic behavior of EcoFlex (Shore hardness-0010) room temperature vulcanizing silicone by invoking a three-parameter Mooney-Rivlin model. Furthermore, the
FEM incorporates experimental temperature transformation curves of shape memory alloy wires by introducing negative thermal coefficient of expansion and considers the effect of gravity and fluid buoyancy forces to accurately predict the transient deformation of the vehicle. The actual power
cycle used to drive artificial A. aurita vehicle was used in the model. The overall profile error between FEM and the vehicle profile is mainly due to the difference in initial relaxed profiles.
Can Biomimicry and Bioinspiration Provide Solutions for Fouling Control?
Authors: Ralston Emily , Swain Geoffrey
Published: October 2011

AbstractBiomimicry, modeling biological systems to find engineering methods, and bioinspiration, improving upon or repurposing the biological model, may provide direction for the development of new antifouling solutions. Despite being subject to constant pressure from foulers,
many organisms maintain a clean surface. The challenge lies in selecting the most effective and reproducible antifouling mechanisms from nature and mimicking or modifying them to provide a realistic engineered solution.
A Conserved Neural Circuit-Based Architecture for Ambulatory and Undulatory Biomimetic Robots
Authors: Ayers Joseph , Westphal Anthony , Blustein Daniel
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe adaptive capabilities of underwater organisms result from layered exteroceptive reflexes responding to gravity, impediment, and hydrodynamic and optical flow. In combination with taxic responses to point sources of sound or chemicals, these reflexes allow reactive
autonomy in the most challenging of environments. We are developing a new generation of lobster and lamprey-based robots that operate under control by synaptic networks rather than algorithms. The networks, based on the command neuron, coordinating neuron, and central pattern generator architecture,
code sensor input as labeled lines and activate shape memory alloy-based artificial muscles through a simple interface that couples excitation to contraction. We have completed the lamprey-based robot and are adapting this sensor, board, and actuator architecture to a new generation of the
lobster-based robot. The networks are constructed from discrete time map-based neurons and synapses and are instantiated on the digital signal processing chip. A sensor board integrates inputs from a short baseline sonar array (for beacon tracking and supervisory control), accelerometer, a
compass, antennae, and optionally chemosensors. Actuator control is mediated by pulse-width duty cycle coding generated by the electronic motor neurons and a comparator and power field-effect transistor (FET) system housed on low- and high-current driver boards. These circular boards are stacked
in a tubular hull with the processor and batteries. This system can readily mimic the biomechanics of the model organisms by the addition of hydrodynamic control surfaces. The behavioral set results from chaining sequences of exteroceptive reflexes released by sensory feedback from the environment.
Autonomous Robotic Fish as Mobile Sensor Platforms: Challenges and Potential Solutions
Authors: Tan Xiaobo
Published: October 2011

AbstractWith advances in actuation and sensing materials and devices, there is a growing interest in developing underwater robots that propel and maneuver themselves as real fish do. Such robots, often known as robotic fish, could provide an engineering tool for understanding
fish swimming. Equipped with communication capabilities and sensors, they could also serve as economical, dynamic samplers of aquatic environments. In this paper we discuss some of the major challenges in realizing adaptive, cost-effective, mobile sensor networks that are enabled by resource-constrained
robotic fish. Such challenges include maneuvering in the presence of ambient disturbances, localization with adequate precision, sustained operation with minimal human interference, and cooperative control and sensing under communication constraints. We also present potential solutions and
promising research directions for addressing these challenges, some of which are inspired by how fish solve similar problems.
Bioinspired Propulsion Mechanisms Based on Manta Ray Locomotion
Authors: Moored Keith W. , Dewey Peter A. , Leftwich Megan C. , Bart-Smith Hilary , Smits Alexander J.
Published: October 2011

AbstractMobuliform swimmers are inspiring novel approaches to the design of underwater vehicles. These swimmers, exemplified by manta rays, present a model for new classes of efficient, highly maneuverable, autonomous undersea vehicles. To improve our understanding of the
unsteady propulsion mechanisms used by these swimmers, we report detailed studies of the performance of robotic swimmers that mimic aspects of the animal propulsive mechanisms. We highlight the importance of the undulatory aspect of producing efficient manta ray propulsion and show that there
is a strong interaction between the propulsive performance and the flexibility of the actuating surfaces.
Inspired by Sharks: A Biomimetic Skeleton for the Flapping, Propulsive Tail of an Aquatic Robot
Authors: Long John H. , Koob Tom , Schaefer Justin , Summers Adam , Bantilan Kurt , Grotmol Sindre , Porter Marianne
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe vertebral column is the primary stiffening element of the body of fish. This serially jointed axial support system offers mechanical control of body bending through kinematic constraint and viscoelastic behavior. Because of the functional importance of the vertebral
column in the body undulations that power swimming, we targeted the vertebral column of cartilaginous fishes—sharks, skates, and rays—for biomimetic replication. We examined the anatomy and mechanical properties of shark vertebral columns. Based on the vertebral anatomy, we built
two classes of biomimetic vertebral column (BVC): (1) one in which the shape of the vertebrae varied and all else was held constant and (2) one in which the axial length of the invertebral joint varied and all else was held constant. Viscoelastic properties of the BVCs were compared to those
of sharks at physiological bending frequencies. The BVCs with variable joint lengths were then used to build a propulsive tail, consisting of the BVC, a vertical septum, and a rigid caudal fin. The tail, in turn, was used as the propeller in a surface-swimming robot that was itself modeled
after a biological system. As the BVC becomes stiffer, swimming speed of the robot increases, all else being equal. In addition, stiffer BVCs give the robot a longer stride length, the distance traveled in one cycle of the flapping tail.
Indirect Stimulation of Human Vγ2Vδ2 T Cells through Alterations in Isoprenoid Metabolism
Authors: Wang Hong , Sarikonda Ghanashyam , Puan Kia-Joo , Tanaka Yoshimasa , Feng Ju , Giner José-Luis , Cao Rong , Mönkkönen Jukka , Oldfield Eric , Morita Craig T.
Published: October 2011

Human Vγ2Vδ2 T cells monitor isoprenoid metabolism by recognizing (E)-4-hydroxy-3-methyl-but-2-enyl pyrophosphate (HMBPP), an intermediate in the 2-C-methyl-d-erythritol-4-phosphate pathway used by microbes, and isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP), an intermediate in the mevalonate pathway used by humans. Aminobisphosphonates and alkylamines indirectly stimulate Vγ2Vδ2 cells by inhibiting farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FDPS) in the mevalonate pathway, thereby increasing IPP/triphosphoric acid 1-adenosin-5′-yl ester 3-(3-methylbut-3-enyl) ester that directly stimulate. In this study, we further characterize stimulation by these compounds and define pathways used by new classes of compounds. Consistent with FDPS inhibition, stimulation of Vγ2Vδ2 cells by aminobisphosphonates and alkylamines was much more sensitive to statin inhibition than stimulation by prenyl pyrophosphates; however, the continuous presence of aminobisphosphonates was toxic for T cells and blocked their proliferation. Aminobisphosphonate stimulation was rapid and prolonged, independent of known Ag-presenting molecules, and resistant to fixation. New classes of stimulatory compounds—mevalonate, the alcohol of HMBPP, and alkenyl phosphonates—likely stimulate differently. Mevalonate, a rate-limiting metabolite, appears to enter cells to increase IPP levels, whereas the alcohol of HMBPP and alkenyl phosphonates are directly recognized. The critical chemical feature of bisphosphonates is the amino moiety, because its loss switched aminobisphosphonates to direct Ags. Transfection of APCs with small interfering RNA downregulating FDPS rendered them stimulatory for Vγ2Vδ2 cells and increased cellular IPP. Small interfering RNAs for isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase functioned similarly. Our results show that a variety of manipulations affecting isoprenoid metabolism lead to stimulation of Vγ2Vδ2 T cells and that pulsing aminobisphosphonates would be more effective for the ex vivo expansion of Vγ2Vδ2 T cells for adoptive cancer immunotherapy.
The Antiviral Immune Response in Mice Devoid of Immunoproteasome Activity
Authors: Basler Michael , Beck Ulrike , Kirk Christopher J. , Groettrup Marcus
Published: October 2011

The replacement of the catalytically active proteasome subunits β1, β2, and β5 by the immunoproteasome subunits low molecular mass polypeptide (LMP) 2 (β1i), multicatalytic endopeptidase complex-like–1 (MECL-1) (β2i), and LMP7 (β5i) is required for the production of numerous class I ligands. Hitherto, investigation of the immunoproteasome was confined to the analysis of mice deficient for one or two immunosubunits. In this study, we characterized LMP2−/−/MECL-1−/− double-deficient mice and used the well-defined LMP7-selective inhibitor ONX 0914 in these mice to generate mice lacking the activity of all immunoproteasome subunits. LMP2−/−/MECL-1−/− double-deficient mice had strongly reduced numbers of CD8+ T cells in the spleen. Nevertheless, infection with the lymphocytic choriomeningits virus induced a normal cytotoxic T cell response in these mice, although the T cell response to several class I epitopes was altered. Treatment of LMP2−/−/MECL-1−/− double-deficient mice with the LMP7-selective inhibitor ONX 0914 elicited a strong CTL response in lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus-infected mice. Thereby, the TCD8+ response to nucleoprotein 205–212, which is barely detectable in LMP2−/−/MECL-1−/− double-deficient mice, could be reverted to normal levels by LMP7 inhibition. Additional experiments could demonstrate that the increased CTL response to the nucleoprotein 205–212 in mice lacking functional immunoproteasome is due to an altered class I presentation of this epitope. Taken together, to our knowledge, this is the first study investigating viral infection in mice lacking activity of all three immunoproteasome subunits.
Activation of Wnt Signaling Arrests Effector Differentiation in Human Peripheral and Cord Blood-Derived T Lymphocytes
Authors: Muralidharan Sujatha , Hanley Patrick J. , Liu Enli , Chakraborty Rikhia , Bollard Catherine , Shpall Elizabeth , Rooney Cliona , Savoldo Barbara , Rodgers John , Dotti Gianpietro
Published: October 2011

The canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays an important role in thymocyte development and T cell migration, but little is known about its role in naive-to-effector differentiation in human peripheral T cells. We show that activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling arrests human peripheral blood and cord blood T lymphocytes in the naive stage and blocks their transition into functional T effector cells. Wnt signaling was induced in polyclonally activated human T cells by treatment either with the glycogen synthase kinase 3β inhibitor TWS119 or the physiological Wnt agonist Wnt-3a, and these T cells preserved a naive CD45RA+CD62L+ phenotype compared with control-activated T cells that progressed to a CD45RO+CD62L− effector phenotype, and this occurred in a TWS119 dose-dependent manner. TWS119-induced Wnt signaling reduced T cell expansion, as a result of a block in cell division, and impaired acquisition of T cell effector function, measured by degranulation and IFN-γ production in response to T cell activation. The block in T cell division may be attributed to the reduced IL-2Rα expression in TWS119-treated T cells that lowers their capacity to use autocrine IL-2 for expansion. Collectively, our data suggest that Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a negative regulator of naive-to-effector T cell differentiation in human T lymphocytes. The arrest in T cell differentiation induced by Wnt signaling might have relevant clinical applications such as to preserve the naive T cell compartment in Ag-specific T cells generated ex vivo for adoptive T cell immunotherapy.
Hypertension as a Risk Factor: Is It Different in Ischemic Stroke and Acute Myocardial Infarction Comparative Cross-Sectional Study?
Authors: Hasan Zaki Noah , Hussein Mousa Qasim , Haji Ghazi Farhan
Published: October 2011

Objective. To assess differences in age of onset, hypertension duration, type of drug, treatment compliance, and salt-free diet compliance between patients with stroke and myocardial infarction.Patients and Methods. The study was conducted in 3 hospitals in Baghdad between June 2010 and June 2011. First group includes 81 stroke patients (36 females and 45 males), age ranges between (33–82 years). Second group includes 110 myocardial infarction patients (46 females and 64 males), ages ranges from (23–76 years).Results. Salt-free diet noncompliance was seen in 69% and 62% of Myocardial infarction and stroke groups, respectively. Silent hypertension was seen in 6.3% and 19.7% of myocardial infarction and stroke groups, respectively. Noncompliant on antihypertensive therapy was seen in 61%, 71%, and 48% of the total, myocardial infarction, and stroke groups, respectively. The drug type was 24% angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, 18.8% combined drugs, 16.2% Beta Blocker, 11% angiotensin 11 receptor blocker, 10.4% calcium channel blocker and 7.3% diuretic. In stroke group, the commonest drug was 23% angiotensin converting inhibitor and the least (5%) was angiotensin receptor blocker. In myocardial infarction group, the commonest drug was 25% Angiotensin Converting Inhibitor and the least (8%) was diuretic.Discussion and Conclusion. Silent hypertension was high in Iraq. Salt-free diet noncompliance was high in both groups; drug noncompliance was significantly higher in patients with myocardial infarction. Angiotensin 11 receptor blocker use was associated significantly with myocardial infarction more than in stroke.
Shorter Leukocyte Telomere Length in Midlife Women with Poor Sleep Quality
Authors: Prather Aric A. , Puterman Eli , Lin Jue , O'Donovan Aoife , Krauss Jeffrey , Tomiyama A. Janet , Epel Elissa S. , Blackburn Elizabeth H.
Published: October 2011

Background. Accumulating evidence supports leukocyte telomere length (LTL) as a biological marker of cellular aging. Poor sleep is a risk factor for age-related disease; however, the extent to which sleep accounts for variation in LTL is unknown.Methods. The present study examined associations of self-reported sleep duration, onset latency, and subjective quality with LTL in a community-dwelling sample of 245 healthy women in midlife (aged 49–66 years).Results. While sleep duration and onset latency were unrelated to LTL, women reporting poorer sleep quality displayed shorter LTL (r=0.14,P=0.03), independent of age, BMI, race, and income (b=55.48,SE=27.43,P=0.04). When analyses were restricted to participants for whom sleep patterns were chronic, poorer sleep quality predicted shorter LTL independent of covariates and perceived psychological stress.Conclusions. This study provides the first evidence that poor sleep quality explains significant variation in LTL, a marker of cellular aging.
Salicylic acid-induced glutathione status in tomato crop and resistance to root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid & White) Chitwood
Authors: Meher Hari C. , Gajbhiye Vijay T. , Singh Ghanendra
Published: October 2011

Salicylic acid-(SA) is a plant defense stimulator. Exogenous application of SA might influence the status of glutathione-(GSH). GSH activates and SA alters the expression of defense genes to modulate plant resistance against pathogens. The fate of GSH in a crop following SA treatment is largely unknown. The SA-induced profiles of free reduced-, free oxidized-(GSSG) and protein bound-(PSSG) glutathione in tomato crop following foliar treatment of transplant at 5.0-10.0 μg mL–1 were measured by liquid chromatography. Resistance to root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita damaging tomato and crop performance were also evaluated. SA treatment at 5.0-10.0 μg mL–1 to tomato transplants increased GSH, GSSG and PSSG in plant leaf and root, more so in leaf, during crop growth and development. As the fruits ripened, GSH and PSSG increased and GSSG declined. SA reduced the root infection by M. incognita, nematode reproduction and thus, improved the resistance of tomato var. Pusa Ruby, but reduced crop growth and redox status. SA at 5.0 μg mL–1 improved yield and fruit quality. The study firstly linked SA with activation of glutathione metabolism and provided an additional dimension to the mechanism of induced resistance against obligate nematode pathogen. SA increased glutathione status in tomato crop, imparted resistance against M. incognita, augmented crop yield and functional food quality. SA can be applied at 5.0 μg mL–1 for metabolic engineering of tomato at transplanting to combine host-plant resistance and health benefits in formulating a strategic nematode management decision.
Work–life balance policies: Challenges and benefits associated with implementing flexitime
Authors: Downes Caroline , Koekemoer Eileen
Published: October 2011

Orientation: Helping employees to balance their work and family lives is a business imperative. Work–life balance policies (like flexitime) aim to support employees to do so. However, implementing these policies is problematic.Research purpose: The aim of this article is to report on the challenges and benefits associated with implementing flexitime as a work–life balance policy.Motivation for the study: Organisations must develop and implement work–life balance policies. This requires human resource practitioners to investigate and understand experiences and perceptions about the challenges and benefits of flexitime.Research design, approach and method: The researcher used a qualitative research design with an exploratory approach. She drew a nonprobability purposive and voluntary sample (n = 15) from the financial sector. She used semi-structured in-depth interviews to collect the data and conducted content analyses to analyse and interpret them.Main findings: The researcher extracted four main themes (individual and general challenges, the aspects organisations need to implement flexitime effectively and the benefits that would follow its implementation) from the data. Its benefits vary from work–life balance to employee loyalty and commitment. Some challenges are maintaining productivity, a shortage of critical resources and understanding flexitime.Practical/managerial implications: The research identified requirements that human resource practitioners should attend to in order to ensure that organisations use flexitime more effectively.Contribution/value-add: The researcher obtained unique findings about the minimum requirements for implementing flexitime effectively. They could assist organisations to address the challenges that employees face.
Programming Application Logic for RESTful Services Using XML Technologies
Authors: Davis Cornelia
Published: October 2011

XRX, XForms on the client, RESTful services and XQuery on the server, introduced a development paradigm that could avoid the use to procedural code in the implementation of RESTful services.  With the standardization of XProc, the XML pipelining language, and the availability of several XProc engines, we have an even more powerful mechanism for RESTful services construction. In this paper we briefly introduce an XML REST Framework that allows a developer to define resources and provide an XML-centric implementation.  Then the main focus of the paper is on how XQuery, XSLT and XProc together form a powerful set of tools with which RESTful services can be developed, effectively redifining XRX to stand for XForms, RESTful services and XProc on the server. We illustrate the benefits each technology brings to this service construction by incrementally building up a RESTful service for a patient medical records registry.
The Effects of Bytecode Generation in XSLT and XQuery
Authors: Delpratt O'Neil Davion , Kay Michael
Published: October 2011

This paper attempts to analyze the performance benefits that are achievable by adding a code generation phase to an XSLT or XQuery engine. This is not done in isolation, but in comparison with the benefits delivered by high-level query rewriting. The two techniques are complementary and independent, but can compete for resources in the development team, so it is useful to understand their relative importance. We use the Saxon XSLT/XQuery processor as a case study, where we can now translate the logic of queries into Java bytecode. We provide an experimental evaluation of the performance of Saxon with the addition of this feature compared to the existing Saxon product. Saxon's Enterprise Edition already delivers a performance benefit over the open source product using the join optimizer and other features. What can we learn from these to achieve further performance gains through direct byte code generation?
Content, Format, and Interpretation
Authors: Dubin David , Wickett Karen M. , Sacchi Simone
Published: October 2011

The connection between notation and the content it expresses is always contingent, and mediated through complex layers of interpretation. Some content bears directly on the encoder's intention to convey a particular meaning, while other content concerns the structures in and through which that meaning is expressed and organized. Interpretive frames are abstractions that serve as context for symbolic expressions. They form a backdrop of dependencies for data management and preservation strategies. Situation semantics offers a theoretical grounding for interpretive frames that integrates them into a general theory of communication through markup and other notational structures.