bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement of cooked rice stickiness with consideration of contact area in compression test
Authors: Yang Jung Hwa , Park Han Jo , Jang Han Dong , Lee Seung Ju
Published: September 2018

The cooked rice stickiness is conventionally measured as the maximum detachment force required to separate the probe from the sample, after compression on the platform of a texture analyzer. A corrected stickiness (the measured stickiness force divided by the contact area) was newly created to avoid the deviation of stickiness influenced by the contact area varying with the rice sample's irregularity, regarding shape and size. The contact area could be estimated from the volume, density, and thickness of the samples. The compression force triggering the stickiness was also converted to the corrected compression force (the force divided by the contact area). Two varieties of rice (short‐grain rice and glutinous rice) were cooked with different amount of water to prepare the samples with various stickiness levels. The contact area was mostly higher in the glutinous rice than short‐grain rice. The contact area increased with the cooking water amount. Three parameters were compared such as the stickiness (the measured force), the primarily corrected stickiness (the corrected stickiness at a fixed value of compression force), and the secondarily corrected stickiness (the corrected stickiness at a fixed value of the corrected compression force). The difference between the rice samples was the most pronounced in the secondarily corrected stickiness. The correlation between the instrumental and sensorial stickiness was also the highest in the secondarily corrected stickiness. Conclusively, the new corrected parameters enhanced the sample discrimination capability and the agreement with the sensorial stickiness than the uncorrected stickiness.

Practical applications

Stickiness is the important quality factor associated with cooked rice preferences. Instrumental stickiness is a detaching force of the preliminarily compressed rice grain by cylindrical probe of texture testing equipment. When it comes to a force measurement, the contact area is usually considered to convert the force to stress. But, for the samples like cooked rice grain, with smaller contact area than that of probe, the contact area is not easy to know because it is not simply the probe bottom area. So the contact area had not been employed to measure cooked rice stickiness. In this study, an established method was devised to figure out the contact area. The corrected stickiness by considering the contact area proved to be more accurate than the original stickiness through sensory evaluation.
Northerners and Southerners Differ in Conflict Culture
Authors: Van de Vliert Evert , Conway Lucian Gideon
Published: September 2018

The present study uses regression analysis of existing cross‐national data sets to demonstrate that ingroup–outgroup discrimination and intergroup conflict management vary more along the north–south (latitudinal) axis than along the east–west axis of the Earth. Ingroup favoritism, outgroup rejection, political oppression, legal discrimination, and communication bullying are all less prevalent among Northerners than among Southerners in the Northern Hemisphere, but more prevalent among Northerners than among Southerners in the Southern Hemisphere. These findings provide a rich source for further research into how social conflicts are habitually experienced and handled by residents of northern versus southern habitats. A supplementary analysis specifies the extent to which ecological stressors—thermal stress, hydraulic stress, pathogenic stress, and subsistence stress—help explain why there are oppositely sloping north–south gradients of conflict culture above and below the equator. Taken in total, these results demonstrate the importance of considering latitude in forming a deeper understanding of conflict management and negotiation.
Phylogeny, biogeography and divergence times of Astragalus section Incani DC. (Fabaceae) inferred from nrDNA ITS and plastid rpl32‐trnL(UAG) sequences
Authors: Amini Elham , Kazempour‐Osaloo Shahrokh , Maassoumi Ali Asghar , Zare‐Maivan Hassan
Published: September 2018

Astragalus sect. Incani, one of the most species‐rich sections of Astragalus with ca 140 species, is well known for its taxonomic complexity resulting from overlapping morphological characters and high phenotypic plasticity. Its main centers of diversity are in Iran and Turkey with about 120 species. Using nrDNA ITS and plastid rpl32‐trnL(UAG) markers, we reconstructed the phylogeny of members of the section by means of maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, Bayesian, Beast and S‐DIVA analyses. This is the first comprehensive work on the section Incani covering its full geographic range. All members of the section (including A. subsecundus) except A. platyphyllus formed a well‐supported clade (Incani s.s.). Within the section, two major groups with different geographic distribution were detected. One group includes nine examined species restricted to eastern Iran and Central Asia and the other group comprises a majority of the species from west and northwestern Iran, Turkey and southern Europe. The Divergence time analysis suggests that Incani s.s. originated in the late Pliocene and a majority of the speciation events dates to the last 1–1.5 Myr. This indicates that the recent diversification of Incani s.s. coincided with climatic changes during the Pliocene and Pleistocene and was followed by complex biogeographical processes in which dispersal have been vital for shaping the current distribution pattern . The S‐DIVA suggested a predominantly east–west route of dispersal from an origin in the east, and a major phylogenetic split between eastern and western lineages. However, the geographical distribution of A. monspessulanus/A. incanus and A. ackerbergensis/A. gueldenstaedtiae does not correspond to their phylogenetic positions. The former species are restricted to southern Europe/North Africa, but belong in two distinct subclades. The latter, restricted to northeastern Iran are phylogenetically close to species of western and northwestern Iran and Turkey. Astragalus sykesiae is resurrected as a distinct species separated from a broadly defined A. mercklinii.
The Effects of Previous and Current Instrumental Involvement and Expressive Involvement on Online Political Participation among Chinese College Students
Authors: Wang Hongyu , Cai Tianji , Xin Yanyu , Chen Baichao
Published: September 2018

This study compares the effect of different types of previous and current memberships on college students’ online political participation in contemporary China using survey method and in‐depth interviews. We find that it is previous instrumental involvement, not expressive participation in high school that is significantly and positively associated with online political participation. Meanwhile, college instrumental involvement exerts no effect on online political participation, and college expressive involvement is negatively associated with youth online expressive participation. Previous instrumental involvement stimulates subsequent political engagement by exposing members to subsequent political mobilization. Instrumental associations do not act as schools of democracy in which members foster political interest or boost generalized trust, but significantly increase members’ chances to be asked to take part in politics years later. The results from the in‐depth interviews regarding the differences in participatory environments between high school and college can be used to explain why instrumental involvement in high school but not college stimulates subsequent political engagement.
Pass the owl: Encouraging participation with a hot potato
Authors: Arnholt Suzanne Ruth
Published: September 2018

This article provides a suggestion for encouraging an appropriate level of participation from all students in a small class or tutorial discussion.
Systematic review of rituximab for autoimmune diseases: a potential alternative to intravenous immune globulin
Authors: MacIsaac John , Siddiqui Reda , Jamula Erin , Li Na , Baker Steven , Webert Kathryn E. , Evanovitch Denise , Heddle Nancy M. , Arnold Donald M.
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

The anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab has immune‐modulatory effects similar to intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to determine the efficacy and safety of rituximab in autoimmune diseases that are also treated with IVIG.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The most common indications for immune modulation with IVIG, as identified from a 2012 regional audit in Canada, were chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), myasthenia gravis, multifocal motor neuropathy, Guillain‐Barré syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Sjogren's syndrome, and pemphigus vulgaris. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library until July 2016 for studies evaluating rituximab in each of these conditions. The primary outcome in our meta‐analysis was clinical response at 6 months as defined by disease‐specific criteria in randomized trials. We also calculated pooled proportions of responders within disease types from observational studies.

RESULTS

Ninety‐five rituximab studies were identified: 86 were observational studies in patients with ITP (n = 1746), SLE (n = 1047), pemphigus vulgaris (n = 564), Sjogren's syndrome (n = 138), myasthenia gravis (n = 66), and CIDP (n = 31) and nine were randomized controlled trials (n = 992) in patients with ITP, SLE, and Sjogren's syndrome that compared rituximab with placebo plus standard of care. Among randomized trials, response rates were higher with rituximab (relative risk, 1.38; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05‐1.83). The pooled proportion of rituximab responses ranged from 94% (95% CI, 88%‐98%) for pemphigus vulgaris to 48% (95% CI, 30%‐66%) for CIDP. Rituximab was generally well tolerated in observational studies although in the randomized trials, adverse events were more common in the rituximab group.

CONCLUSION

Rituximab is an immune‐modulating agent with biologic activity across many autoimmune conditions. Our data support the use of comparative trials with broad eligibility criteria to evaluate rituximab as an alternative to IVIG in autoimmune diseases.
Evaluating Algibon adsorbent and adsorption kinetics for launderette water treatment: towards sustainable water management
Authors: Tony Maha A. , Parker Helen L. , Clark James H.
Published: September 2018

Grey water from commercial laundry facility was used for treatment to substitute the conventional water sources. Algibon, A800 derived from mesoporous alginic acid and Starbon S300, carbonaceous mesoporous polysaccharide‐derived materials, silica gel (SG) and activated carbon (AC) were used for the treatment of wastewater. The optimum adsorbent dosing and pH value for each adsorption system are defined. The adsorption efficiency are in the order of A800 > SG > AC > S300 and the removal rate reached to 91% when A800 was used. Furthermore, the reaction followed the second‐order kinetic model and the rate constant is high when A800 adsorbent is applied.
Ointment vehicles regulate the wound‐healing process by modifying the hyaluronan‐rich matrix
Authors: Murasawa Yusuke , Furuta Katsunori , Noda Yasuhiro , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Fujii Satoshi , Isogai Zenzo
Published: September 2018

Topical ointment consists of an active ingredient and vehicle, and the vehicle largely comprises the volume of the ointment. During the treatment of chronic wounds, such as pressure ulcers, the vehicle has been considered inactive, only serving as a carrier of the main pharmaceutical. However, recent reports have indicated that the vehicle has distinct clinical effects that depend on its physicochemical properties. Therefore, an understanding of the action mechanism of the ointment vehicle in wound tissue is necessary. In this study, we established a mouse model to analyze tissue reactions induced by the following ointment vehicles, an oil‐in‐water emulsion (EM) vehicle; a macrogol ointment (MO), which is a water‐soluble, hydrophilic vehicle; and a MOs containing sucrose (MS). EM‐treated wounds exhibited an inflammatory reaction characterized by tissue edema and thick granulation tissue; however, MO‐ and MS‐treated wounds did not exhibit this reaction. Moreover, EM‐treated wounds exhibited infiltration of inflammatory cells unlike MO‐treated wounds. In contrast, the formation of collagenous tissue was dominantly observed in MO‐treated wounds. Because the vehicle regulates the water environment of the wound, the water‐holding extracellular matrix molecules, including hyaluronan (HA) and proteoglycan, were examined using immunohistochemical and biochemical methods. The versican G1 fragment, serum‐derived HA‐associated protein (SHAP) and HA (the VG1F‐SHAP‐HA) complex characteristically found in inflammatory conditions of pressure ulcers was found in EM‐treated wounds. To histologically analyze the mechanism of action of the vehicle, we evaluated the ointment vehicle‐wound tissue interface in an en bloc manner. Formation of the HA‐containing complex was observed locally between the vehicle and wound surface. On the basis of these data, ointment vehicles regulate the wound‐healing process through the formation of HA‐rich extracellular matrices at the ointment‐wound interface. This study provides a better understanding of the treatment of deep‐pressure ulcers with focus on ointment vehicles.
Advanced Liquefaction Cycle for Natural Gas
Authors: Kim Mungyu , Kim Youngrae , Kim Minseok , Kim Minki , Lee Kihwan , Kim Hyobin , Lee Donghun , Min Joonho
Published: September 2018

This paper presents a LNG Liquefaction cycle configuration using two stages of methane expansion and a single stage of nitrogen expansion (Dual Refrigerant) to improve the efficiency of the conventional methane and nitrogen refrigerant expansion cycle (Niche Cycle). The chosen configuration further optimizes the composite cooling and heating curve of the liquefaction cycle, resulting in a higher thermodynamic efficiency. The production efficiency of the liquefaction cycle can be improved by reducing the interval between the cooling curve of the natural gas and the warming curve of the refrigerant: the closer both curves are, the better the efficiency of the cycle. This optimization is achieved by adjusting the refrigerant operating temperatures and pressures. The advanced dual refrigerant expansion cycle includes three levels of expansion, each having different temperature and pressure levels. In the methane expansion loop there are two stages, which are classified warm and cold. The warm loop is applied in the pre-cooling zone and the cold loop is responsible for the main liquefaction. The nitrogen loop is a single stage and is used for sub-cooling. This configuration allows the methane and nitrogen warming curve to closely match the cooling curve of the natural gas cooling curve by changing the methane and nitrogen warming curve from two straight lines into multiple intersecting straight lines of different gradient. That is to say, the additional new methane expander generates an added inflection point within the cold composite curve. As a result, thermodynamic inefficiencies are minimized and the power requirements are reduced when compared to Niche Cycle. In comparison with other previous expansion cycles, the cycle efficiency has increased approximately from 13.13 to 12.08 kW/ton/day (8% efficiency increase) assuming similar feed gas (methane: 80%, MW: 21.38). The composition of this feed gas is representative for associated gas or pipe line gas which is preliminary treated to remove bulk water and hydrocarbon condensate. A case study is presented for an open sea associated gas FLNG concept, comparing three kinds of liquefaction processes (Double Nitrogen Expansion Cycle, Methane & Nitrogen Expansion Cycle and Developed Dual Refrigerant Expansion Cycle). A Life Cycle Cost (LCC) analysis based on Net Positive Value (NPV) also shows an improvement in terms of project NPV, against a minor increment of the CAPEX of these cycles.
Adaptability of Next Generation Hull-Platform “Noah-FPSO Hull”
Authors: Tanaka Shigeru , Takano Kotaro , Sogawa Yasuhiro , Nakamura Ken , Inoue Tadashi , Mori Masaharu , Otonari Mikito
Published: September 2018

In general, petroleum reservoirs vary with geographical locations and their environmental conditions, and there are no crude and gas exactly alike in respective locations. This means that it is very difficult to apply a specific standard design, which is usually preferred by many shipyards, to any FPSO hull.

These facts often lead to serious trouble for FPSO hull construction in terms of cost and delivery time.

In order to solve those challenging issues, Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. developed a next generation FPSO platform, “noah-FPSO Hull” (noah : New Offshore Adapted Hull), and obtained Approval in Principle for the noah-FPSO Hull from two world leading classification societies, Bureau Veritas and American Bureau of Shipping.

Unique modular design and multi-yard construction concept of the noah-FPSO Hull were overviewed and discussed in our 1st report [1]. This paper is the 2nd report of the noah-FPSO Hull and focuses on discussing specific modular design for structural design and equipment arrangement. Hull motion in adverse weather condition is also discussed.
Fatigue Behaviour of Dented Pipes Under Internal Pressure: A Numerical-Experimental Approach
Authors: Polanco-Loria Mario A. , Ilstad Håvar
Published: September 2018

This work presents a numerical-experimental methodology to study the fatigue behavior of dented pipes under internal pressure. A full-scale experimental program on dented pipes containing gouges were achieved. Two types of defects were studied: metal loss (plain dent) and sharp notch. Both defects acting independently reduce the fatigue life performance but their combination is highly detrimental and must be avoided. We did not find a severity threshold (e.g. dent depth or crack depth) where these defects could coexist. In addition, based on numerical analyses we proposed a new expression for stress concentration factor (SCF) in line with transversal indentation. This information was successfully integrated into a simple fatigue model where the fatigue life predictions were practically inside the window of experimental results.
Long-Term Analysis of Extreme Global Restoring Loads on a FPSO Turret Structure Using a Coupled Model
Authors: Puente Isabel Jimenez , Larsen Kjell
Published: September 2018

A turret structure can be a major design driver for FPSO systems. Therefore, careful attention needs to be given to the estimation of extreme loads on this structural element.

This paper presents an all seas long-term analysis of the extreme global restoring forces acting on a FPSO turret structure, and a comparison with the results obtained through the contour line approach.

The analysis is performed in the time domain using a coupled model, where the floater is modelled in the software SIMO, and the risers and mooring lines are represented by a Finite Element Model in RIFLEX.

The characteristic responses of the turret structure with q-annual probability of exceedance are estimated from a full long-term analysis where both the short and long-term variability are considered. These results are compared to those obtained through the long-term estimate from the contour line approach when assuming 90th percentile for the worst sea state with q-annual probability of exceedance.

The results from the full long-term analysis will allow us to verify the adequate percentile level to be used with a contour line approach when estimating extreme turret structure loads.
Optimization of Pipe Insulation Volume for a Subsea Production System
Authors: Hong Cheng , Wang Yuxi , Yang Jiankun , Estefen Segen F. , Souza Marcelo Igor Lourenço
Published: September 2018

The increasing of deepwater oil field developments brings a growing need for thermal management to prevent hydrate and wax formations in the subsea production system, due to the low environment temperature and long distance transportation. Pipeline insulation coating is a typical strategy for thermal management. In a subsea production system, pressure, temperature, flow rate and length of each flowline vary, leading to a different thermal performance of the fluid inside. Therefore, the insulation coating should be carefully designed from the overall perspective to minimize the total material volume, thus reducing the cost. In this paper, an optimization model for the insulation material volume of a wellhead-manifold-FPSO production system is proposed. Then, the best insulation thickness of each sub-sea flowline can be determined under given flow parameters and temperature requirements. The factor that defines the temperature drop from riser base to the top termination is introduced and analyzed. There is a proper temperature drop factor associated with the insulation material volume for subsea flowlines, as well as a proper insulation capacity for the risers. This optimization model can define the subsea system insulation and provide reliable results for cost estimation.
A PSO-Based Method for Tracing the Motion of Neutral Axis Plane of Asymmetric Hull Cross-Sections and its Application
Authors: Li Chenfeng , Gao Chao , Zhou Xueqian , Dong Sen , Fu Peng , Xu Donghao
Published: September 2018

The Smith’s method is stipulated by the International Association of Classification Societies in the Common Structure Rules as a standard method for estimating ultimate/residual strength of hull girder in both intact and damaged conditions. However, for the latter case where the effective hull cross-section is asymmetric and the neutral axis of damaged cross-section not only translates but also rotates, the additional force vector equilibrium also needs to be applied so as to determine the neutral axis plane. The commonly adopted iterative methods for the two-force-equilibrium problem do not always converge for the desired accuracy. This paper proposes a Particle Swarm Optimization based iteration method to trace the motion of the neutral axis plane of asymmetric cross sections. The translation and rotation of the neutral axis are taken as the two dimensions of particles in the model, and the force equilibrium error and the force vector equilibrium error are the objective functions. The neutral axis is determined by performing a random search within the entire range of possible position of neutral axis. The proposed method has been implemented and validated for the case of the DOW’s 1/3 frigate model, the analysis of efficiency and accuracy shows that the method performs in general better than traditional ones.
The Effect of Temporal Length of Current Measurements on the Derived Design Level
Authors: Arntsen Martin , Borge Juliane , Strømmesen Ole-Hermann , Hansen Edmond
Published: September 2018

The duration of current measurements is often short, ranging from a few weeks up to a year. Application of extreme value statistics to derive design levels requires relatively long time series. To mitigate the lack of long-term measurements, the Norwegian standard NS9415 for fish farm design requires the design level of 50-year return period to be derived by multiplication of the current maximum in month-long current measurements by a prescribed conversion factor of 1.85. Here we use twelve data sets of yearlong coastal current measurements to explore the validity of this factor. For each yearlong time series, a design level of 50-year return period is calculated by extreme value statistics and used to calculate estimates of the conversion factor. The mean value of the resulting conversion factor is close to that of NS9415, 1.85 and 1.80 at 5 and 15 m depth, respectively. However, the spread in values is great, both geographically and between months. A conversion factor ranging from 1 to 4 reflects different relative dominance of the driving forces at different coastal regions and different seasons. The absence of a significant seasonal cycle in the conversion factors calculated here, illustrates the difficulty in adjusting for season. The results illustrate and quantify the uncertainty and — often — the lack of conservatism in design levels derived from month long current observations.
Integrated Decommissioning of a Pentagon Shaped Production Semisubmersible in the UK: A Unique Challenge
Authors: Batalla Toro Luis F. , Reid Simon L. , Tudela Alfredo Salcines , Graham Duncan
Published: September 2018

Between 1969 and 1977, eleven semisubmersible drilling platforms were designed and built with an innovative pentagon shaped hull, specifically to work in the harsh environment of the North Sea. One of the drilling rigs, the Alexander L. Kielland, was converted soon after construction into an accommodation platform (flotel) and failed catastrophically in 1980. Another, the Pentagon 83 “Drillmaster” (renamed as Buchan Alpha), was being converted to a Floating Production Unit at the time of the disaster. The structure of Buchan Alpha was significantly modified during the conversion of the platform so that it benefited from the lessons learnt following the Alexander L. Kielland accident to ensure that the same sequence of events could not be repeated.

This technical paper objective is to explain the integrated decommissioning process of the Buchan Alpha in the UK after more than 40 years since being built and more than 35 years of successful operation since it was converted to a Floating Production Unit, and how the features of its original design have accompanied the platform through the decommissioning process.

The scope covers all phases of Buchan Alpha decommissioning from the detailed planning and preparation, the suspension of production up to the dismantling and recycling process.

Significant challenges for the decommissioning team included the requirement to preserve the operational status of the subsea infrastructure for potential future field redevelopment and the diver disconnection of the subsea wells.

Buchan Alpha’s deep draught presented limitations on the selection of dismantling and recycling yards due to quayside water depths. Complex ballasting operations and removal of the thruster’s propellers were required to facilitate the platform berthing at the quayside.

Key lessons learned applicable for future decommissioning of floating production facilities will be shared.
Numerical Study on the Effect of a Submerged Breakwater Seaward of an Existing Breakwater for Climate Change Adaptation
Authors: Sasikumar Athul , Kamath Arun , Musch Onno , Erling Lothe Arne , Bihs Hans
Published: September 2018

In coastal areas, climate change is causing mean sea level rise and more frequent storm surge events. This means the breakwaters are expected to withstand the action of more severe incident waves and larger overtopping rates than they were designed for. Therefore, these impacts may have a negative effect on the functionality such as overtopping above the acceptable limits, in addition to stability of these structures. A breakwater which has been partly damaged by a storm stronger than the design storm has weak spots that can easily be damaged further. One way of protecting these breakwaters subjected to climate change is to build a submerged breakwater on the seaward side.

This study focuses on the use of numerical model for optimal dimension of a submerged breakwater to be used as a protective measure for an existing structure. Comparisons are made between transmission coefficient predicted in the numerical model and those calculated from different formulae in literature. The variation in transmission coefficient due to different relative submergence and relative width parameters for waves with different steepness is studied and curves showing the dependence of these parameters on wave transmission are made. These results are then used for a test case in Kiberg, Norway where a submerged breakwater is proposed in front of a existing damaged rubble mound breakwater. The optimal geometry generated on the basis of curves is then implemented in the local-scale finite element wave prediction model, CGWAVE.
Hydrodynamic Coefficients of Simplified Subsea Structures
Authors: Mentzoni Fredrik , Abrahamsen-Prsic Mia , Kristiansen Trygve
Published: September 2018

Simplified two-dimensional models, representing components of complex subsea structures, are experimentally investigated. Individual as well as combinations of components in different configurations are tested, in order to study the effect of hydrodynamic interaction. The components include porous plates and cylindrical pipes with circular cross-section. Hydrodynamic added mass and damping coefficients, relevant for force estimation during lifting operations, are presented. The coefficients are obtained based on forced oscillation tests for a large range of Keulegan–Carpenter (KC) numbers and forcing periods, and compared to numerical source panel results for the low KC limit, as well as recommendations given by DNV GL, where relevant.

Coefficients for all configurations are found to be highly amplitude dependent. Significant interaction effects are found for the assembled structures, causing either reduced or increased total added mass and damping coefficients compared to the super-position of the coefficients for individual members.
An Optimization Method for the Concept Design of Semi-Submersible Offshore Accommodation Units
Authors: Hallak Thiago S. , Ventura Manuel , Guedes Soares C.
Published: September 2018

A methodology for the initial dimensioning and evaluation of semi-submersible offshore accommodation units by use of a novel optimization procedure is presented. The method developed has two main steps. First, the optimization procedure itself, in which a set of different configurations is considered and one by one optimized following a genetic algorithm in terms of cost estimates, whereas several other characteristics of the units are evaluated according to an embedded synthesis model. Second, the set of optimized geometries are run in commercial software for accurate seakeeping and stability analysis, where requirements’ compliance are checked. The final solution may then be chosen considering the trade-offs between cost and performance. In the last section of this paper, a case study is presented and the results obtained are discussed.
Coach Support of High School Student-Athletes Struggling With Anxiety or Depression
Authors: Kroshus Emily , Chrisman Sara P.D. , Coppel David , Herring Stanley
Published: September 2018

This study sought to identify factors that influence whether coaches support athletes struggling with depression and anxiety. Participants were U.S. public high school coaches who completed a written survey assessing their experiences, attitudes, and behaviors related to student-athlete mental health (n = 190 coaches, 92% response rate). Around two-thirds of coaches were concerned about mental health issues among the students they coached. They were more likely to extend help to a struggling athlete if they were aware of their school’s mental health plan and had greater confidence related to helping, including feeling confident in their ability to identify symptoms of mental health disorders. Mental health professionals, including sport psychologists who work with or consult with coaches, are well positioned to help provide coaches with the education necessary to be able to support and encourage care seeking by athletes who are struggling with anxiety or depression.
2018 International Consensus Statement on Golf and Health to guide action by people, policymakers and the golf industry
Authors: Murray Andrew D , Archibald Daryll , Murray Iain Robert , Hawkes Roger A , Foster Charlie , Barker Kevin , Kelly Paul , Grant Liz , Mutrie Nanette
Published: September 2018

Scientific and public interest relating to golf and health has increased recently. Players, potential players, the golf industry and facilities, and decision makers will benefit from a better understanding of how to realise potential health benefits and minimise health issues related to golf. We outline an International Consensus on Golf and Health. A systematic literature review informed the development of a survey. Utilising modified Delphi methods, an expert panel of 25 persons including public health and golf industry leaders, took part in serial surveys providing feedback on suggested items, and proposing new items. Predefined criteria for agreement determined whether each item was included within each survey round and in the final consensus. The working group identiﬁed 79 scientifically supportable statement items from literature review and discussions. Twenty-five experts (100%) completed all three rounds of surveys, rating each item, and suggesting modifications and/or new items for inclusion in subsequent surveys. After three rounds, 83 items achieved consensus with each with >75% agreement and <10% disagreement. These items are included in the final International Consensus on Golf and Health. The final consensus presented here can inform scientific knowledge, and action plans for (1) golfers and potential golfers, (2) golf facilities and the golf industry, and (3) policy and decision makers external to golf. These outputs, if widely adopted, will contribute to an improved understanding of golf and health, and aid these groups in making evidence-informed decisions to improve health and well-being.
The global stability of two epidemic models with nonlinear recovery incidence rate
Authors: Pan Yue , Pi Dechang , Yao Shuanglong , Meng Han
Published: September 2018

In this paper, we present two epidemic models with a nonlinear incidence and transfer from infectious to recovery. For epidemic models, the basic reproductive number is calculated. A dynamic system based on threshold, using LaSalle’s invariance principle and Lyapunov function, is structured completely by the basic reproductive number. By studying the SIR and SIRS models under the nonlinear condition, the general validity of the method is verified.
Estimation and Generation of Software Architectural Specification to Handle Variation Points
Authors: Philip Milu Mary , Shah Vaibhav , Balakrishnan Vijayakumar
Published: September 2018

The development of a reliable and efficient software application system requires a competent software architecture which can attune to any design improvement opportunity in the early stages of software architectural design. An Architectural Description Language provides a description of all the component elements and their interactions. The proposed model determines all possible ways of connecting the components and connectors, after eliminating the transitive and symmetric conflicts among the connections, followed by the generation of the software architectural specification. An estimate on the maximum number of architectural specifications generated for a given number of components has been carried out. The syntax for specifying the components and the connectors has been formulated. The model proposed in the current work is generic and it will significantly help a software architect in building reliable, efficient and flexible software architecture, for any valid combination of components and connectors. It has been successfully tested for two prototype applications that involve processing of images and documents.
New Jacobi elliptic solutions and other solutions with quadratic-cubic nonlinearity using two mathematical methods
Authors: Nestor Savaissou , Justin Mibaile , Douvagai  , Betchewe Gambo , Doka Serge Y. , Kofane T. C.
Published: September 2018

In this paper, we apply two powerful methods, namely, the new extended auxiliary equation method and the generalized Kudryashov method for constructing many exact solutions and other solutions for the higher order dispersive nonlinear Schrödinger’s equation to secure soliton solutions in quadratic-cubic medium. Various solutions of the resulting nonlinear ODE are obtained by using the above two methods.
A novel two-dimensional accordion-like titanium carbide (MXene) for adsorption of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution
Authors: Tang Yi , Yang Chenhui , Que Wenxiu
Published: September 2018

Herein, we report on a novel two-dimensional (2D) material application, which shows that an accordion-like layered Ti3C2 nanomaterial (MXene) with an excellent adsorption capacity of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution was prepared by etching Al layer from Ti3AlC2 phase in hydrofluoric acid (HF) solution. Ti3C2 nanopowders were well characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and the physical property of as-obtained samples was studied by UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS). After HF treatment, Ti3AlC2 not only has a phase transition from one crystal to another, but surprisingly, its microstructure is also undergoing an obvious change. Ti3C2 with product of change possesses an accordion-like multilayer structure, and a relatively higher specific surface area (SSA) than untreated Ti3AlC2. Then, accordion-like Ti3C2 with a high SSA provides abundant active sites for pollutant removal and functionalization. Accordion-like Ti3C2 nanomaterial exhibits a stable adsorption capacity, and 1[Formula: see text]g as-prepared accordion-like Ti3C2 powders can remove about 80[Formula: see text]mg potassium dichromate. Therefore, the results suggest that 2D MXenes are promising as an effective nanoadsorbent in heavy metal removal from the wastewater.
Understanding Cross-Site Linking in Online Social Networks
Authors: Gong Qingyuan , Chen Yang , Hu Jiyao , Cao Qiang , Hui Pan , Wang Xin
Published: September 2018

As a result of the blooming of online social networks (OSNs), a user often holds accounts on multiple sites. In this article, we study the emerging “cross-site linking” function available on mainstream OSN services including Foursquare, Quora, and Pinterest. We first conduct a data-driven analysis on crawled profiles and social connections of all 61.39 million Foursquare users to obtain a thorough understanding of this function. Our analysis has shown that the cross-site linking function is adopted by 57.10% of all Foursquare users, and the users who have enabled this function are more active than others. We also find that the enablement of cross-site linking might lead to privacy risks. Based on cross-site links between Foursquare and external OSN sites, we formulate cross-site information aggregation as a problem that uses cross-site links to stitch together site-local information fields for OSN users. Using large datasets collected from Foursquare, Facebook, and Twitter, we demonstrate the usefulness and the challenges of cross-site information aggregation. In addition to the measurements, we carry out a survey collecting detailed user feedback on cross-site linking. This survey studies why people choose to or not to enable cross-site linking, as well as the motivation and concerns of enabling this function.
Seismic Damage Detection of Moment Resisting Frame Structures Using Time‐Frequency Features
Authors: Tao Dongwang , Ma Qiang , Li Shanyou
Published: September 2018

To detect seismic damage of moment resisting frame (MRF) structures, a data‐driven method using the fractal dimension (FD) of time‐frequency feature (TFF) of structural seismic dynamic responses at measured stories is extended and refined. The TFF is defined as the real part of Gabor wavelet transform of translational interstory displacement, and FD is used to give a quantitative value to describe the calculated TFF. Static condensation method is first used to reduce the degrees‐of‐freedom (DOFs) of MRF and to express the rotational displacements using translational displacements. For linear MRF, the FDs of TFFs at all stories are the same using the definition of TFF and modal superposition principle. For damaged MRF with plastic hinges at the ends of beams and columns, the force analogy method is implemented to establish transformation matrix from plastic hinge rotations to translational interstory inelastic displacements. Due to the sparseness of the transformation matrix, plastic hinges only generate interstory inelastic displacements, which are low‐frequency contents, in the vicinity of plastic hinges. Correspondingly, the FDs of TFFs of interstory displacements with inelastic component are different from the FDs of TFFs of the interstory displacements that do not contain inelastic component. A numerical simulation on a 16‐story MRF was conducted. The simulation included 10 cases such as no damage or linear structure, plastic hinges in single‐story beams, plastic hinges in single‐story columns, plastic hinges in single‐story beams and columns, and plastic hinges in multiple story beams and columns. The robustness to measurement noise was also investigated. The seismic damage detection results demonstrated that the proposed method was capable of locating the stories where the plastic hinges occurred.
Head Down Deep Breathing for Cardioversion of Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia
Authors: Lim Steven Hoon Chin , Lai Shieh Mei , Wong Kelvin Cheok Keng
Published: September 2018

The first-line recommended treatment for stable paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) is the use of vagal maneuvers. Often the Valsalva maneuver is conducted. We describe two patients who converted to sinus rhythm without complications, using a head down deep breathing (HDDB) technique.
An Engagement Model Based on User Interest and QoS in Video Streaming Systems
Authors: Tan Xiaoying , Guo Yuchun , Orgun Mehmet A. , Xue Liyin , Chen Yishuai
Published: September 2018

With the surging demand on high‐quality mobile video services and the unabated development of new network technology, including fog computing, there is a need for a generalized quality of user experience (QoE) model that could provide insight for various network optimization designs. A good QoE, especially when measured as engagement, is an important optimization goal for investors and advertisers. Therefore, many works have focused on understanding how the factors, especially quality of service (QoS) factors, impact user engagement. However, the divergence of user interest is usually ignored or deliberatively decoupled from QoS and/or other objective factors. With an increasing trend towards personalization applications, it is necessary as well as feasible to consider user interest to satisfy aesthetic and personal needs of users when optimizing user engagement. We first propose an Extraction-Inference (E-I) algorithm to estimate the user interest from easily obtained user behaviors. Based on our empirical analysis on a large‐scale dataset, we then build a QoS and user Interest based Engagement (QI-E) regression model. Through experiments on our dataset, we demonstrate that the proposed model reaches an improvement in accuracy by 9.99% over the baseline model which only considers QoS factors. The proposed model has potential for designing QoE‐oriented scheduling strategies in various network scenarios, especially in the fog computing context.
Upper Bound Solution of Surrounding Rock Pressure for Deep Cavity Using Nonlinear Hoek–Brown Failure Criterion
Authors: Wang Cheng-yang , Fu He-lin , Liu Jun-zhe
Published: September 2018

The linear failure criterion is generally adopted in the stability problem of geotechnical engineering, whereas the experiments have indicated that there is a nonlinear relationship between the maximum and minimum principal stresses in weak surrounding rock. According to the characteristics of weak rock, the failure mechanism of deep cavity is constructed by combining the nonlinear Hoek–Brown failure criterion and the upper bound theorem of limit analysis. The upper bound solution of the surrounding rock pressure was deduced using the tangent method. The results show that the surrounding rock pressure of deep cavity is affected by surrounding rock grade, cavity depth, and section size. Especially, the influence of the disturbance factor is quite obvious. Upper bound solution based on nonlinear Hoek–Brown failure criterion can fully take the influence of parameters on surrounding rock pressure. Therefore, this method is more scientific than the linear failure criterion to calculate the surrounding rock pressure.
Postoperative Pulmonary Edema Conundrum: A Case of Negative Pressure Pulmonary Edema
Authors: Guru Pramod K. , Agarwal Anjali , Pimentel Mario , McLaughlin Diane C. , Bansal Vikas
Published: September 2018

Postobstructive pulmonary edema (POPE) also known as negative pressure pulmonary edema (NPPE) is an underdiagnosed entity in clinical practice and can lead to life-threatening hypoxemia. A 64-year-old male patient’s perioperative course was complicated by acute hypoxemic respiratory failure, after extubation following general anesthesia, following the excision of the right vocal cord papilloma. His chest X-ray showed features of pulmonary edema, EKG showed dynamic ST-T changes in the lateral leads, and echocardiography showed evidence of regional motion abnormalities. His coronaries were normal on the immediate angiogram. He was managed with lung protective mechanical ventilation strategy, diuretics, and fluid restriction. His respiratory status improved, and trachea was extubated after 10 hours of intensive care unit (ICU) stay. The case illustrates the various differentials of immediate postoperative flash pulmonary edema and ensuing appropriate management strategy.
Efficient Message Authentication Scheme with Conditional Privacy‐Preserving and Signature Aggregation for Vehicular Cloud Network
Authors: Xie Yong , Xu Fang , Li Dong , Nie Yu
Published: September 2018

Vehicular cloud network (VCN) is deemed as the most promising platform for providing transportation safety, road optimization, and valued‐added application services. Because VCN is of distinguishing feature with super‐large scale and unstable communication, it is a challenging task to study efficient authentication scheme for VCN without losing security and conditional privacy‐preserving. To meet the challenge, a new efficient message authentication scheme is proposed in this paper. A batch message verification and signature aggregation are included in the proposed scheme to improve the authentication efficiency and decrease the communication cost. Compared with the similar conditional privacy‐preserving authentication schemes, the proposed scheme has superior performance in computation and communication cost. Simulation analysis further proves that the proposed scheme has better advantages in reducing the verification loss rate and message delay in the application of VCN.