bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ensemble Kalman Filter With Principal Component Analysis Assisted Sampling for Channelized Reservoir Characterization
Authors: Kang Byeongcheol , Yang Hyungjun , Lee Kyungbook , Choe Jonggeun
Published: January 2017

Ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) is one of the widely used optimization methods in petroleum engineering. It uses multiple reservoir models, known as ensemble, for quantifying uncertainty ranges, and model parameters are updated using observation data repetitively. However, it requires a large number of ensemble members to get stable results, causing huge simulation time. In this study, we propose a sampling method using principal component analysis (PCA) and K-means clustering. It excludes poor ensemble with different geological trends to the reference so we can improve both speed and reliability of future predictions. A representative model, which is selected from candidate models of each cluster, has a role to choose proper ensemble for EnKF. For applying EnKF to channelized reservoirs, we compare cases with using 400, randomly picked 100, sampled 100 using Hausdorff distance, and sampled 100 by the proposed method. The proposed method shows improvements over the other cases compared. It gives stable uncertainty ranges and well-updated reservoir parameters after the assimilations. Randomly selected 100 ensemble members predict wrong reservoir performances, and 400 ensemble members exhibit too large uncertainty ranges with long simulation times. Even though more ensemble members are utilized, they provide worse results due to disturbance by improperly designed models. We confirm our sampling strategy in a real field case, PUNQ-S3, and it reduces simulation time as well as improves the future predictions for efficient and reliable history matching.
Practical Data Mining and Artificial Neural Network Modeling for Steam-Assisted Gravity Drainage Production Analysis
Authors: Ma Zhiwei , Leung Juliana Y. , Zanon Stefan
Published: January 2017

Production forecast of steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) in heterogeneous reservoir is important for reservoir management and optimization of development strategies for oil sand operations. In this work, artificial intelligence (AI) approaches are employed as a complementary tool for production forecast and pattern recognition of highly nonlinear relationships between system variables. Field data from more than 2000 wells are extracted from various publicly available sources. It consists of petrophysical log measurements, production and injection profiles. Analysis of a raw dataset of this magnitude for SAGD reservoirs has not been published in the literature, although a previous study presented a much smaller dataset. This paper attempts to discuss and address a number of the challenges encountered. After a detailed exploratory data analysis, a refined dataset encompassing ten different SAGD operating fields with 153 complete well pairs is assembled for prediction model construction. Artificial neural network (ANN) is employed to facilitate the production performance analysis by calibrating the reservoir heterogeneities and operating constraints with production performance. The impact of extrapolation of the petrophysical parameters from the nearby vertical well is assessed. As a result, an additional input attribute is introduced to capture the uncertainty in extrapolation, while a new output attribute is incorporated as a quantitative measure of the process efficiency. Data-mining algorithms including principal components analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis are applied to improve prediction quality and model robustness by removing data correlation and by identifying internal structures among the dataset, which are novel extensions to the previous SAGD analysis study. Finally, statistical analysis is conducted to study the uncertainties in the final ANN predictions. The modeling results are demonstrated to be both reliable and acceptable. This paper demonstrates the combination of AI-based approaches and data-mining analysis can facilitate practical field data analysis, which is often prone to uncertainties, errors, biases, and noises, with high reliability and feasibility. Considering that many important system variables are typically unavailable in the public domain and, hence, are missing in the dataset, this work illustrates how practical AI approaches can be tailored to construct models capable of predicting SAGD recovery performance from only log-derived and operational variables. It also demonstrates the potential of AI models in assisting conventional SAGD analysis.
In-Furnace Sulfur Capture by Cofiring Coal With Alkali-Based Sorbents
Authors: Rokni Emad , Hsein Chi Hsun , Levendis Yiannis A.
Published: January 2017

This manuscript presents experimental results on the reduction of sulfur oxide emissions from combustion of a high-sulfur content pulverized bituminous coal (Illinois #6 Macoupin) using a dry sorbent injection method. The coal particles were in the size range of 90–125 μm and were blended with calcium-, sodium-, potassium-, and magnesium-containing powdered sorbents at different proportions. The alkali/sulfur molar ratios were chosen to correspond to stoichiometric proportions (Ca/S = 1, Mg/S = 1, Na2/S = 1, and K2/S = 1) and the effectiveness of each alkali or alkali earth based sorbent was evaluated separately. Combustion of coal took place in a drop-tube furnace, electrically heated to 1400 K under fuel-lean conditions. The evolution of combustion effluent gases, such as NOx, SO2, and CO2 was monitored and compared among the different sorbent cases. The use of these sorbents helps to resolve the potential of different alkali metals for effective in-furnace sulfur oxide capture and possible NOx reduction. It also assesses the effectiveness of various chemical compounds of the alkalis, such as oxides, carbonates, peroxides, and acetates. Reductions in SO2 emissions were in the range of 5–72%, with sodium being the most effective metal followed by potassium, calcium, and then magnesium. Acetates were effective as dual SO2 and NOx reduction agents.
The Inefficacy of Chauvenet's Criterion for Elimination of Data Points
Authors: Limb Braden J. , Work Dalon G. , Hodson Joshua , Smith Barton L.
Published: January 2017

Chauvenet's criterion is commonly used for rejection of outliers from sample datasets in engineering and physical science research. Measurement and uncertainty textbooks provide conflicting information on how the criterion should be applied and generally do not refer to the original work. This study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of Chauvenet's criterion for improving the estimate of the standard deviation of a sample, evaluate the various interpretations on how it is to be applied, and evaluate the impact of removing detected outliers. Monte Carlo simulations using normally distributed random numbers were performed with sample sizes of 5–100,000. The results show that discarding outliers based on Chauvenet's criterion is more likely to have a negative effect on estimates of mean and standard deviation than to have a positive effect. At best, the probability of improving the estimates is around 50%, which only occurs for large sample sizes.
Diffusible Hydrogen Level in Deposited Metal and Their Effect on Tensile Properties and Flexural Strength of P91 Steel
Authors: Pandey Chandan , Mahapatra M. M. , Kumar Pradeep , Saini N.
Published: January 2017

In a “very high-temperature reactor” (VHTR), the Nb–V-modified 9Cr–1Mo creep strength enhance the ferritic (CSEF) steel which is the chosen material for fabrication of reactor pressure vessels and piping because of its excellent high temperature thermal and mechanical properties. In such CSEF steel weldments, the hydrogen-induced cracking (HIC) is a critical issue. In the present work, the different levels of hydrogen have been induced in P91 CSEF weld metal to study their effect on HIC. The HIC susceptibility of P91 steel welds has been studied by carrying out the tensile test and flexural test for the different level of diffusible hydrogen. The hydrogen levels in deposited metals have been measured by using the mercury method. The fracture tensile and flexural test samples have been characterized based on the field-emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM). It is concluded that higher the level of diffusible hydrogen in deposited metal, more is the susceptibility of P91 steel to HIC. The minimum flexural and tensile strength are 507.45 MPa and 282 MPa, respectively, for 12.54 ml volume of diffusible hydrogen in 100 g of deposited weld metal.
Exploitation of Large Recoverable Deformations Using Weaved Shape Memory Alloy Wire-Based Sandwich Panel Configurations
Authors: Mohan Ashish , Srinivasan Sivakumar M. , Joshi Makarand
Published: January 2017

A new class of truss structure based on superelastic shape memory alloy (SMA) wire has been developed by weaving superelastic SMA wire through two perforated facesheets. A gap was maintained between the facesheets while weaving and the ends of wire forming the truss legs are anchored in each facesheet. The resulting structure has a modified pyramidal configuration and is capable of undergoing large recoverable deformations typical of superelastic SMA. A four-unit cell truss specimen has been tested under static load cycles to investigate the compressive response. The truss specimen underwent a hysteretic loop and demonstrated minimal permanent deformation closely resembling the behavior of bulk SMA. A finite element model of the truss was generated and the analysis results were compared with the experimental response. The present work is an attempt to demonstrate an SMA-based truss structure having energy absorption capabilities with minimum permanent deformation. These truss structures may be applied for damage mitigation in composites subjected to impact and blast loads.
Optimal Arc Welding Process Parameter Combination Design and Metallographic Examination for SDSS Butt Welds
Authors: Chandima Ratnayake R. M. , Dyakov Daniel
Published: January 2017

Although novel techniques and high performance material open the way for generation of high-performance welded joints, the welding operations are inherently quite complex and expensive. This has been the case, especially for super duplex stainless steel (SDSS) welding. If inappropriate parameter combinations are selected, then the welding process degrades the strength and corrosion resistance because of an unbalanced ferrite/austenite content in an SDSS welded joint. Therefore, it is vital to determine the optimal combination of parameters such as welding process, rate of shielding gas, heat input, and weld geometry. In addition, the optimal combination of parameter levels plays an important role in maintaining the microstructural and mechanical properties in the weld's metal region. This paper illustrates an expert knowledge based methodology for designing the optimal parameter combination, using an engineering robust design approach (ERDA) and related experimentation results. The experiments were performed to investigate the effect of welding factors (i.e., gap geometry, different welding techniques, material transfer and welding processes) on the material properties in the weld and heat affected zone (HAZ). The optimal parameter combination, results of the verification experiment, and the metallographic examination results of selected regions of the butt welded joints are presented.
Influence of Lubricant Inlet Film Thickness on Elastohydrodynamically Lubricated Contact Starvation
Authors: Kostal David , Sperka Petr , Svoboda Petr , Krupka Ivan , Hartl Martin
Published: January 2017

The paper deals with an experimental study of an elastohydrodynamic contact under insufficient lubricant supply. Theoretical studies published in this research area focus mainly on the development of theoretical models, and there is a lack of experimental validation of the theoretical models. This paper presents original experimental results and aims to describe the starvation severity level as a function of the inlet film thickness and contact geometry. Experimental data are compared with an analytical model for point contacts published by Chevalier. The study was also extended to elliptical contacts to achieve a comparison with the different parameters of the side-flow resistance used by Damiens. Both models agree well with the experiments.
Optimal Design and Experimental Study of a Multidynamic Vibration Absorber for Multifrequency Excitation
Authors: Wang Xi , Yang Bintang , Yu Hu
Published: January 2017

The inevitable manufacturing errors of rotational machineries cause vibration of multifrequency. This paper presents a multidynamic vibration absorber (MDVA) to suppress the vibration of multifrequency. The MDVA consists of two parts, and each part includes three dynamic vibration absorbers (DVAs) with equal mass but different stiffness values. In order to improve the robustness of the system, an optimization method to obtain the optimal damping values of each DVA is proposed based on dynamic response. The objective function of optimization aims to flatten the frequency response of the primary system with the changeable excitation and reduce the vibration level in a limited frequency bandwidth. The multifrequency vibration suppression is experimentally verified. To achieve the optimal damping values, the magnetic dampers are applied in the tests. The experimental results indicate that the sensitivity of the system is reduced and the robustness of the system is enhanced, which are coincident with the simulations.
Synthesis of Shaped Noncircular Gear Using a Three-Linkage Computer Numerical Control Shaping Machine
Authors: Zheng Fangyan , Hua Lin , Han Xinghui , Li Bo , Chen Dingfang
Published: January 2017

Gear shaping, commonly regarded as the most widely used machining method for cylindrical gear, is in fact an ideal manufacturing method for noncircular gear due to its merit of not being restricted by gear type or pitch curve in contrast to gear hobbing. However, concerning researches are mainly focused on the generation of noncircular straight external gear, paying rare attention to noncircular internal gear and noncircular helix gear. Considering that this paper, through using a three-linkage computer numerical control (CNC) shaping machine, aims to synthesize shaped noncircular gear, covering external, internal, straight, and helix gear. The mathematical model, a three-linkage model, is first established. The corresponding manufacturing process in practice is subsequently discussed. Finally, with practical shaping experiments, the correctness of the proposed model and the appropriateness of the manufacturing process are verified.
Kinematic Analysis and Dimensional Synthesis of a Meso-Gripper
Authors: Bai Guochao , Kong Xianwen , Ritchie James Millar
Published: January 2017

In recent years, applications in industrial assemblies within a size range from 0.5 mm to 100 mm are increasing due to the large demands for new products, especially those associated with digital multimedia. Research on grippers or robotic hands within the mesoscopic scale of this range has not been explored in any great detail. This paper outlines the development of a gripper to bridge the gap between microgrippers and macrogrippers by extending the gripping range to the mesoscopic scale, particularly without the need to switch grippers during industrial assembly. The mesoscopic scale gripper (meso-gripper) researched in this work has two modes of operation: passive adjusting mode and angled gripping mode, adapting its configuration to the shape of object automatically. This form of gripping and the associated mechanism are both novel in their implementation and operation. First, the concept of mesoscopic scale in robotic gripping is presented and contextualized around the background of inefficient hand switching processes and applications for assembly. The passive adjusting and angled gripping modes are then analyzed and a dual functional mechanism design proposed. A geometric constraint method is then demonstrated which facilitates task-based dimensional synthesis after which the kinematics of synthesized mechanism is investigated. The modified synthesized mechanism gripper is then investigated according to stiffness and layout. Finally, a 3D printed prototype is successfully tested, and the two integrated gripping modes for universal gripping verified.
Detached-Eddy Simulation of Ground Effect on the Wake of a High-Speed Train
Authors: Xia Chao , Shan Xizhuang , Yang Zhigang
Published: January 2017

The influence of ground effect on the wake of a high-speed train (HST) is investigated by an improved delayed detached-eddy simulation. Aerodynamic forces, the time-averaged and instantaneous flow structure of the wake are explored for both the stationary ground and the moving ground. It shows that the lift force of the trailing car is overestimated, and the fluctuation of the lift and side force is much greater under the stationary ground, especially for the side force. The coexistence of multiscale vortex structures can be observed in the wake along with vortex stretching and pairing. Furthermore, the out-of-phase vortex shedding and oscillation of the longitudinal vortex pair in the wake are identified for both ground configurations. However, the dominant Strouhal number of the vortex shedding for the stationary and moving ground is 0.196 and 0.111, respectively, due to the different vorticity accumulation beneath the train. A conceptual model is proposed to interpret the mechanism of the interaction between the longitudinal vortex pair and the ground. Under the stationary ground, the vortex pair embedded in a turbulent boundary layer causes more rapid diffusion of the vorticity, leading to more intensive oscillation of the longitudinal vortex pair.
A Study on the Emissions of Alternative Aviation Fuels
Authors: Riebl Sebastian , Braun-Unkhoff Marina , Riedel Uwe
Published: January 2017

Currently, the aviation sector is seeking for alternatives to kerosene from crude oil, as part of the efforts combating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, in particular carbon dioxide (CO2), and ensuring security of supply at affordable prices. Several synthetic jet fuels have been developed including sustainable biokerosene, a low-carbon fuel. Over the last years, the technical feasibility as well as the compatibility of alternative jet fuels with today's planes has been proven However, when burning a jet fuel, the exhaust gases are a mixture of many species, going beyond CO2 and water (H2O) emissions, with nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), unburned hydrocarbons (UHC) including aromatic species and further precursors of particles and soot among them. These emissions have an impact on the local air quality as well as on the climate (particles, soot, contrails). Therefore, a detailed knowledge and understanding of the emission patterns when burning synthetic aviation fuels are inevitable. In the present paper, these issues are addressed by studying numerically the combustion of four synthetic jet fuels (Fischer–Tropsch fuels). For reference, two types of crude-oil-based kerosene (Jet A-1 and Jet A) are considered, too. Plug flow calculations were performed by using a detailed chemical-kinetic model validated previously. The composition of the multicomponent jet fuels was imaged by using the surrogate approach. Calculations were done for relevant temperatures, pressures, residence times, and fuel equivalence ratios φ. Results are discussed for NOx, CO as well as for benzene and acetylene as major soot precursors. According to the predictions, the NOx and CO emissions are within about ±10% for all fuels considered, within the parameter range studied: T = 1800 K, T = 2200 K; 0.25 ≤ φ ≤ 1.8; p = 40 bar; t = 3 ms. The aromatics free GtL (gas to liquid) fuel displayed higher NOx values compared to Jet A-1/A. In addition, synthetic fuels show slightly lower (better) CO emission data than Jet A-1/A. The antagonist role of CO and NOx is apparent. Major differences were predicted for benzene emissions, depending strongly on the aromatics content in the specific fuel, with lower levels predicted for the synthetic aviation fuels. Acetylene levels show a similar, but less pronounced, effect.
Supplementary description of Novophytoptus stipae Keifer 1962 (Acariformes, Eriophyoidea) with LT-SEM observation on mites from putatively conspecific populations: cryptic speciation or polyphagy of novophytoptines on phylogenetically remote hosts?
Authors: Chetverikov Philipp E. , Amrine James , Bauchan Gary , Ochoa Ron , Sukhareva Sogdiana I. , Vishnyakov Andrey E.
Published: January 2017

Supplementary descriptions of an infrequently encountered species Novophytoptus stipae Keifer 1962 (Eriophyoidea, Phytoptidae) from Achnatherum speciosum (Poaceae) based on topotypes recovered from dry plant material from California is given. Comparison of topotypes of N. stipae with fresh Novophytoptus mites from Juncus tenuis and J. balticus (Juncaceae) collected in West Virginia and Ohio failed to reveal distinct morphological differences sufficient enough to establish new taxa. All studied mites are considered belonging to one species, N. stipae. This is putatively an example of polyphagous eriophyoid species inhabiting phylogenetically remote hosts. Remarks on polyphagy and dispersal modes in eriophyoids are addressed. Uncommon features of the gnathosoma and the anal region of novophytoptines were discovered under LT-SEM. These findings emphasize peculiarities of novophytoptines in relation to their endoparasitic life style and underline numerous gaps in our knowledge on anatomy and functioning of the organism of eriophyoid mites.
Calibration of brief stimuli for the recording of evoked responses from the human auditory pathway
Authors: Elberling Claus , Crone Esmann Lau
Published: January 2017

The relationship between the calibration RETSPL-values (reference equivalent threshold sound pressure level) in dB p-p.e.SPL and the corresponding sound pressure levels in dB SPL for brief stimuli is formulated mathematically. The formula is applied on ten brief stimuli consisting of a click, four tone-bursts, a chirp, and four octave-band chirps presented at a stimulus rate of 20 stimuli per second, and using the average acoustical parameter-values from a sample of 20 ER-3A insert earphones in the occluded-ear simulator. The reference calibration values in dB SPL for the ten stimuli are then established. These theoretical values are verified by direct measurements using two different sound-level-meters. It is concluded that the calibration values in dB SPL can be applied in the practical calibration of common brief stimuli. Calibration with these reference values involves only a sound-level meter, and the need for including an oscilloscope in the calibration setup is therefore eliminated.
Managing mixed-stock fisheries: genotyping multi-SNP haplotypes increases power for genetic stock identification
Authors: McKinney Garrett J. , Seeb James E. , Seeb Lisa W.
Published: January 2017

A common challenge for fisheries management is resolving the relative contribution of closely related populations where accuracy of genetic assignment may be limited. An overlooked method for increasing assignment accuracy is the use of multi-SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) haplotypes rather than single-SNP genotypes. Haplotypes increase power for detecting population structure, and loci derived from next-generation sequencing methods often contain multiple SNPs. We evaluated the utility of multi-SNP haplotyping for mixture analysis in western Alaska Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). Multi-SNP haplotype data increased the accuracy of mixture analysis for closely related populations by up to seven percentage points relative to single-SNP genotype data for a set of 500 loci; 90% accuracy was achievable with as few as 150 loci with multi-SNP haplotypes but required at least 300 loci with single-SNP genotypes. Individual assignment to reporting groups showed an even greater increase in accuracy of up to 17 percentage points when multi-SNP haplotypes were used. Haplotyping multiple SNPs shows promise to improve the accuracy of assigning unknown fish to population of origin whenever haplotype data are available.
Effects of inoculation with organic-phosphorus-mineralizing bacteria on soybean (Glycine max) growth and indigenous bacterial community diversity
Authors: Sun Wei , Qian Xun , Gu Jie , Wang Xiao-Juan , Li Yang , Duan Man-Li
Published: January 2017

Three different organic-phosphorus-mineralizing bacteria (OPMB) strains were inoculated to soil planted with soybean (Glycine max), and their effects on soybean growth and indigenous bacterial community diversity were investigated. Inoculation with Pseudomonas fluorescens Z4-1 and Brevibacillus agri L7-1 increased organic phosphorus degradation by 22% and 30%, respectively, compared with the control at the mature stage. Strains P. fluorescens Z4-1 and B. agri L7-1 significantly improved the soil alkaline phosphatase activity, average well color development, and the soybean root activity. Terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis demonstrated that P. fluorescens Z4-1 and B. agri L7-1 could persist in the soil at relative abundances of 2.0%–6.4% throughout soybean growth. Thus, P. fluorescens Z4-1 and B. agri L7-1 could potentially be used in organic-phosphorus-mineralizing biofertilizers. OPMB inoculation altered the genetic structure of the soil bacterial communities but had no apparent influence on the carbon source utilization profiles of the soil bacterial communities. Principal components analysis showed that the changes in the carbon source utilization profiles of bacterial community depended mainly on the plant growth stages rather than inoculation with OPMB. The results help to understand the evolution of the soil bacterial community after OPMB inoculation.
New simultaneous fit of 12CD4 transitions in the 0–2400 cm−1 region
Authors: Ouardi Okkacha , Meskine Mohamed , Karrour Abdelkrim
Published: January 2017

We report the global analysis of 12CD4 line positions from high-resolution rovibrational spectra, including accurate lines in the region 0–2400 cm−1. In addition to the lines of P0–P0 and P1–P1 (where P0 is the ground state (GS), and P1 is the dyad (ν2, ν4)), this region covers two cold polyads: P1 (900–1220 cm−1, two vibrational levels, two sublevels) and the pentad (2ν4, ν2 + ν4, ν1, 2ν2, ν3) or P2 (1850–2400 cm−1, five vibrational levels, nine sublevels). In this analysis, 2724 assignments from four sources are fitted using an effective Hamiltonian expanded up to the sixth order for the pentad. For the assignments and analysis, we use the SPVIEW and XTDS software programs that implement the tensorial formalism developed in the Dijon group for tetrahedral molecules. Among the 454 parameters of the effective Hamiltonian for the pentad (of which 10 are relative to the GS (or P0) and 72 are relative to the dyad), 233 were fitted (10 of which are GS and 37 of which are dyad). The 47 parameters for the dyad and the 233 parameters for the pentad allow very good simulations to be made. For this study, a total of 2724 line positions were used in the least squares adjustment characterized by the following global root mean square deviations dRMS for line positions: 0.01 × 10−4 cm−1 for P0–P0, 0.4 × 10−4 cm−1 for P1–P1, 1.3 × 10−4 cm−1 for the dyad, and 0.7 × 10−4 cm−1 for the pentad. XTDS and SPVIEW, which can simulate spectra, allowed us to verify and compare the calculated spectrum, to the experimental spectrum for the dyad and pentad regions of 12CD4 and to a spectrum obtained from variational calculation and from ab initio DMS (TheoReTS information system http://theorets.univ-reims.fr or http://theorets.tsu.ru ).
A Novel Race Classification Method Based on Periocular Features Fusion
Authors: Chen Hengxin , Gao Mingqi , Ricanek Karl , Xu Weiliang , Fang Bin
Published: January 2017

Race identification is an essential ability for human eyes. Race classification by machine based on face image can be used in some practical application fields. Employing holistic face analysis, local feature extraction and 3D model, many race classification methods have been introduced. In this paper, we propose a novel fusion feature based on periocular region features for classifying East Asian from Caucasian. With the periocular region landmarks, we extract five local textures or geometrical features in some interesting regions which contain available discriminating race information. And then, these effective features are fused into a remarkable feature by Adaboost training. On the composed OFD-FERET face database, our method gets perfect performance on average accuracy rate. Meanwhile, we do a plenty of additional experiments to discuss the effect on the performance caused by gender, landmark detection, glasses and image size.
Fault-Tolerant Strategy for Real-Time System Based on Evolvable Hardware
Authors: Wang Jie , Liu Jiwei
Published: January 2017

The evolvable hardware (EHW) is widely used in the design of fault-tolerant system. Fault-tolerant system is really a real-time system, and the recovery time is necessary in fault detection and recovery. However, when applying EHW, real-time characteristic is usually ignored. In this paper, a fault-tolerant strategy based on EHW is proposed. The recovery time, predicted by the fault tree analysis (FTA), is considered as a constraint condition. A configuration library is set up in the design phase to accelerate the repair process of the anticipated faults. An evolvable algorithm (EA) based on similarity is applied to evolve the repair circuit for the unanticipated faults. When the library reaches the upper, the target system is reconfigured by the EA-repair technology. Extensive experiments are conducted to show that our method can improve the fault-tolerance of the system while satisfying the real-time requirement on FPGA platform. In a long run system, our method can keep a higher fault recovery rate.
SITEX 2.0: Projections of protein functional sites on eukaryotic genes. Extension with orthologous genes
Authors: Medvedeva Irina V. , Demenkov Pavel S. , Ivanisenko Vladimir A.
Published: January 2017

Functional sites define the diversity of protein functions and are the central object of research of the structural and functional organization of proteins. The mechanisms underlying protein functional sites emergence and their variability during evolution are distinguished by duplication, shuffling, insertion and deletion of the exons in genes. The study of the correlation between a site structure and exon structure serves as the basis for the in-depth understanding of sites organization. In this regard, the development of programming resources that allow the realization of the mutual projection of exon structure of genes and primary and tertiary structures of encoded proteins is still the actual problem. Previously, we developed the SitEx system that provides information about protein and gene sequences with mapped exon borders and protein functional sites amino acid positions. The database included information on proteins with known 3D structure. However, data with respect to orthologs was not available. Therefore, we added the projection of sites positions to the exon structures of orthologs in SitEx 2.0. We implemented a search through database using site conservation variability and site discontinuity through exon structure. Inclusion of the information on orthologs allowed to expand the possibilities of SitEx usage for solving problems regarding the analysis of the structural and functional organization of proteins. Database URL: http://www-bionet.sscc.ru/sitex/ .
Meshless and Multi-Resolution Collocation Techniques for Steady State Interface Models
Authors: Aziz Imran , Siraj-ul-Islam  , Haider Nadeem
Published: January 2017

In this paper, two numerical methods are being considered for simulations of 1D elliptic type single and double interface models. The first proposed method is based on Haar wavelet collocation while the second method is based on meshless collocation which is realized on radial basis functions. Numerical experiments are carried out to check performance of both the methods. The accuracy of the methods is assessed in terms of [Formula: see text] error norm. Comparison of numerical results is shown to establish validity and superiority of the methods.
Loop gravity and Schwarzschild spacetime
Authors: Bendjoudi Ahmida , Mebarki Noureddine
Published: January 2017

A discretization for the Schwarzschild spacetime manifold is introduced and investigated. It is shown that the discreteness of the area of space shown in loop gravity leads to a tetrahedral structure characterizing the Schwarzschild manifold.
Determinants of Corporate Bond Trading: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Hotchkiss Edith , Jostova Gergana
Published: January 2017

This paper studies the determinants of trading volume and liquidity of corporate bonds. Using transactions data from a comprehensive dataset of insurance company trades, our analysis covers more than 17,000 US corporate bonds of 4,151 companies over a five-year period prior to the introduction of TRACE. Our transactions data show that a variety of issue- and issuer-specific characteristics impact corporate bond liquidity. Among these, the most economically important determinants of bond trading volume are the bond’s issue size and age — trading volume declines substantially as bonds become seasoned and are absorbed into less active portfolios. Stock-level activity also impacts bond trading volume. Bonds of companies with publicly traded equity are more likely to trade than those with private equity. Further, public companies with more active stocks have more actively traded bonds. Finally, we show that while the liquidity of high-yield bonds is more affected by credit risk, interest-rate risk is more important in determining the liquidity of investment-grade bonds.
Which is Driver? Land Price or Housing Price: Examining the Urban Spatial Structure of Beijing
Authors: DING Chengri , NIU Yi
Published: January 2017

This paper examines the spatial structure of Beijing to determine the relationship between land price and housing price. The purposes of the paper are two-fold. One is to help to better understand the roles in which land markets play in urban development and the other is to explain skyrocketing land prices, particularly in the first decade of the 21st century. It has been debated whether land supply is the main cause for skyrocketing land prices. This paper, however, concludes that it is housing price that drives up skyrocketing land prices. The analytical framework to draw the conclusion is to investigate urban spatial development patterns to see if they are consistent with the outcomes of urban model/theory in which land is treated as a production factor for housing and land demand is a derived demand. If the answer is yes, we can conclude the driving role of housing prices on land prices, even though we recognize the effect of land supply restrictions on land prices. So the paper first examines the urban spatial pattern of Beijing, with reference to urban economic model. And then the paper estimates the parameters of a CES-type housing production function. The paper conducts numerical simulation to illustrate how a small increase in housing prices will lead to big increases in land prices. The paper concludes (1) effective roles of price mechanism in land and urban development as manifested by relatively fast decay of land prices compared to housing prices, as expected according to urban theory; and (2) a 25% increase in housing price can lead to 50–125% increases in land prices, depending on the distance to city center. We believe that our finding has substantial policy implications in China.
Copyright enforcement in the digital age
Authors: Danaher Brett , Smith Michael D. , Telang Rahul
Published: January 2017

Government-sanctioned and market-based anti-piracy measures can both mitigate economic harm from piracy.
The future of the internet of things
Authors: Lindqvist Ulf , Neumann Peter G.
Published: January 2017

The IoT can become ubiquitous worldwide---if the pursuit of systemic trustworthiness can overcome the potential risks.
A Pediatric Tumor Found Frequently in the Adult Population: A Case of Anaplastic Astroblastoma in an Elderly Patient and Review of the Literature
Authors: Payne Christopher , Batouli Ali , Stabingas Kristen , Alcindor Dunbar , Abdel Aziz Khaled , Pu Cunfeng , Tyler-Kabara Elizabeth , Williams Robert , Yu Alexander
Published: January 2017

Astroblastomas are rare, potentially curable primary brain tumors which can be difficult to diagnose. We present the case of astroblastoma in a 73-year-old male, an atypical age for this tumor, more classically found in pediatric and young adult populations. Through our case and review of the literature, we note that this tumor is frequently reported in adult populations and the presentation of this tumor in the elderly is well described. This tumor is an important consideration in the differential diagnosis when managing both pediatric and adult patients of any age who present with the imaging findings characteristic of this rare tumor.
Operational Simulation of LC Ladder Filter Using VDTA
Authors: Kumar Praveen , Pandey Neeta , Paul Sajal Kumar
Published: January 2017

In this paper, a systematic approach for implementing operational simulation of LC ladder filter using voltage differencing transconductance amplifier is presented. The proposed filter structure uses only grounded capacitor and possesses electronic tunability. PSPICE simulation using 180 nm CMOS technology parameter is carried out to verify the functionality of the presented approach. Experimental verification is also performed through commercially available IC LM13700/NS. Simulations and experimental results are found to be in close agreement with theoretical predictions.
Efficacy and Tolerability of Travoprost 0.004%/Timolol 0.5%Fixed-Dose Combination for the Treatment of Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma or Ocular Hypertension Inadequately Controlled with Beta-Blocker Monotherapy
Authors: Lerner Simon Fabian , Park Ki Ho , Hubatsch Douglas A. , Erichev Valeriy , Paczka Jose A. , Roberts Timothy V.
Published: January 2017

Objective. To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of travoprost 0.004%/timolol 0.5% fixed-dose combination (TTFC) in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT) inadequately controlled on beta-blocker monotherapy.Methods. In this phase IV, open-label study, 156 patients on beta-blocker monotherapy with mean intraocular pressure (IOP) between 18 and 32 mmHg were randomized (no washout period) to receive TTFC for 8 weeks (TTFC group) or to continue beta-blocker monotherapy for 4 weeks followed by TTFC for the remaining 4 weeks (beta-blocker group).Results. The mean IOP (±standard deviation) at baseline in the TTFC and beta-blocker groups was22.5±2.5 mmHg and22.2±2.3 mmHg, respectively, and at weeks 4 and 8, was16.7±3.1 mmHg and16.1±3.1 mmHg, respectively, in TTFC group and21.1±3.1 mmHg and16.1±2.8 mmHg, respectively, in the beta-blocker group. There was a significant least squares mean difference between TTFC and beta-blocker in 8 a.m. IOP at week 4 (−4.6 mmHg; one-sided 95% confidence interval [−inf, −3.9];p<0.0001[primary endpoint]); the upper bound of the 95% confidence interval was within the prespecified limit (<0). Both treatments were well tolerated.Conclusion. Superior IOP control was achieved with TTFC in patients with OAG or OHT previously uncontrolled with beta-blockers. No new safety findings were identified. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.govNCT02003391.
Sonocatalytic Degradation of Antibiotics Tetracycline by Mn-Modified Diatomite
Authors: Guo Yiping , Mi Xiao , Li Guoting , Chen Xi
Published: January 2017

Mn-modified diatomite was prepared by wet impregnation and subsequent calcinations processes. It was used as catalyst for sonocatalytic degradation of antibiotics tetracycline. Characterizations by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction pattern showed that the morphology and crystal structure of the modified diatomite were similar to these of raw diatomite. Despite containing very limited amount of Mn oxides, the Mn-modified diatomite showed much higher sonocatalytic activity than the raw diatomite. The increases in both MnSO4 concentration of the wet impregnation solution and the catalyst dosage could enhance the degradation of antibiotics tetracycline significantly. Kapp values for ultrasonication, catalyst adsorption, and both processes combined (0.10 mol/L MnSO4-modified diatomite) were 1.22 × 10−4, 0.00193, and 0.00453 min−1, respectively, while the corresponding values of R2 were 0.956, 0.986, and 0.953, respectively. These results demonstrated the significant synergetic effect by combining ultrasonication and catalyst adsorption processes. The presence of isopropanol, KBr, and NaN3 quenched a series of reactive oxygen species sharply, indicating the dominant role of reactive oxygen species in the sonocatalytic process. In contrast, the addition of Fe(II) enhanced the degradation due to the generation of more OH∙ radicals in the concurrent Fenton reaction. All the results indicated that Mn-modified diatomite had the great potential for water treatment by sonocatalytic oxidation.
Advances in the Preparation of Fluorinated Isoquinolines: A Decade of Progress
Authors: Sloop Joseph C.
Published: January 2017

Heterocyclic molecules incorporating fluorinated isoquinoline components are found in many medicinally and agriculturally important bioactive products as well as industrially impactful materials. Within the past decade, a variety of isoquinolinic ring assembly techniques has enabled the introduction of diverse fluorine-containing functionalities which can enhance potential bioactivity and industrial utility. This review examines recent noncatalyzed and transition metal catalyzed synthetic approaches to the assembly of isoquinoline derivatives that are ring-fluorinated and/or result in the incorporation of fluorine-containing functional groups. Specifically, efficient synthetic methods and regioselectivity in the incorporation of functional groups into isoquinoline ring systems are examined.
On the Mechanical Properties of Hybrid Aluminium 7075 Matrix Composite Material Reinforced with SiC and TiC Produced by Powder Metallurgy Method
Authors: Pradeep Devaneyan S. , Ganesh R. , Senthilvelan T.
Published: January 2017

Metal matrix composites are widely used in components of various components of industrial equipment because of their superior material properties like high stiffness to weight ratio and high impact strength and fracture toughness while compared to the conventional material. Due to the concepts of high strength to low weight ratio, Al 7075 was extensively applied in aircraft engine and wings. Even if Al 7075 has higher hardness, higher strength, excellent wear resistance, and high-temperature corrosion protection, it is in need of further enhancement of properties for increasing its applicability. This paper presents the mechanical behavior of aluminium 7075 reinforced with Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Titanium Carbide (TiC) through powder metallurgy route. These specimens were produced by powder metallurgy method. The hybrid composite was made by Al 7075 alloy as the matrix with Silicon Carbide and Titanium Carbide as reinforcement. Silicon Carbide and Titanium Carbide are mixed in different weight ratio based on the design matrix formulated through a statistical tool, namely, Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Enhanced mechanical properties have been obtained with 90% of Al 7075, 4% of TiC, and 8% of SiC composition in the composite. Coefficient of friction appears to be more which has been determined by ring compression test.
The Gingival Crevicular Fluid as a Source of Biomarkers to Enhance Efficiency of Orthodontic and Functional Treatment of Growing Patients
Authors: de Aguiar Mariana Caires Sobral , Perinetti Giuseppe , Capelli Jonas
Published: January 2017

Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) is a biological exudate and quantification of its constituents is a current method to identify specific biomarkers with reasonable sensitivity for several biological events. Studies are being performed to evaluate whether the GCF biomarkers in growing subjects reflect both the stages of individual skeletal maturation and the local tissue remodeling triggered by orthodontic force. Present evidence is still little regarding whether and which GCF biomarkers are correlated with the growth phase (mainly pubertal growth spurt), while huge investigations have been reported on several GCF biomarkers (for inflammation, tissue damage, bone deposition and resorption, and other biological processes) in relation to the orthodontic tooth movement. In spite of these investigations, the clinical applicability of the method is still limited with further data needed to reach a full diagnostic utility of specific GCF biomarkers in orthodontics. Future studies are warranted to elucidate the role of main GCF biomarkers and how they can be used to enhance functional treatment, optimize orthodontic force intensity, or prevent major tissue damage consequent to orthodontic treatment.
Comparison of Treatment Outcomes of Surgical Repair in Inguinal Hernia with Classic versus Preperitoneal Methods on Reduction of Postoperative Complications
Authors: Mahmoudvand Hormoz , Forutani Shahab , Nadri Sedigheh
Published: January 2017

Background. This study aims to evaluate and compare the results of inguinal herniorrhaphy with mesh in classic and preperitoneal method.Methods. Our study community includes 150 candidate patients for inguinal herniorrhaphy with mesh. Totally, 150 candidate patients for inguinal herniorrhaphy were randomly divided into two groups: (1) classic group in which the floor of the canal was repaired and the mesh was located on the floor of the canal and (2) preperitoneal group in which the mesh was installed under the canal and then the floor was repaired.Results. The frequency of recurrence was 10 (13.3%) and 2 (2.66%) in the classic and preperitoneal group, respectively. The frequency of postsurgical pain was 21 (28%) in the classic group and 9 (12%) in the preperitoneal group. The postsurgical hematoma was observed in 7 (9.3%) and 9 (12%) in the classic and preperitoneal group, respectively. Also, the frequency of postsurgical seroma was 8 (10.7%) and 1 (1.3%) in the patients treated with the classic and preperitoneal method, respectively.Conclusion. The findings of the present study demonstrated that the preperitoneal method is a more suitable method for inguinal herniorrhaphy than the classic one because of fewer complications, according to the findings of this study.
Evaluation of Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging for the Assessment of Oral Mucosal Blood Flow following Periodontal Plastic Surgery: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Molnár Eszter , Molnár Bálint , Lohinai Zsolt , Tóth Zsuzsanna , Benyó Zoltán , Hricisák Laszló , Windisch Péter , Vág János
Published: January 2017

The laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) is proved to be a reliable tool in flap monitoring in general surgery; however, it has not been evaluated in oral surgery yet. We applied the LSCI to compare the effect of a xenogeneic collagen matrix (Geistlich Mucograft®) to connective tissue grafts (CTG) on the microcirculation of the modified coronally advanced tunnel technique (MCAT) for gingival recession coverage. Gingival microcirculation and wound fluid were measured before and after surgery for six months at twenty-seven treated teeth. In males, the flap microcirculation was restored within 3 days for both grafts followed by a hyperemic response. During the first 8 days the blood flow was higher at xenogeneic graft comparing to the CTG. In females, the ischemic period lasted for 7–12 days depending on the graft and no hyperemic response was observed. Females had more intense and prolonged wound fluid production. The LSCI method is suitable to capture the microcirculatory effect of the surgical intervention in human oral mucosa. The application of xenogeneic collagen matrices as a CTG substitute does not seem to restrain the recovery of graft bed circulation. Gender may have an effect on postoperative circulation and inflammation.