bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benefits of porosity‐dependent moisture retention modelling for predicting autogenous shrinkage of concrete
Authors: Gamnitzer Peter , Drexel Martin , Brugger Andreas , Hofstetter Günter
Published: September 2019

Concrete can be modelled as a porous medium, the pores being filled with moist air and water. In equilibrium, the water content in the pore system is related to the ambient humidity by a constitutive law like relation, the so‐called sorption isotherm. The shape of the sorption isotherm depends on the pore size distribution in the porous medium and will therefore change due to hydration. This paper reviews the benefits of a recently proposed and calibrated porosity dependent desorption isotherm for maturing concrete. Special emphasis is placed on the resulting improvements for predicting the evolution of the autogenous shrinkage strain in multiphase modelling of maturing concrete. They are highlighted by a comparison to results obtained with a multiphase model based on a moisture retention function which is independent of the actual value of porosity.
Comprehensive optimization of frame structures
Authors: Keller Alexander , Muench Ingo , Wagner Werner
Published: September 2019

The comprehensive optimization of truss and frame structures considers all three kinds of optimization aspects: topology, shape, and sizing of members. However, the simultaneous solution of the problem increases the complexity of the problem and leads to high demands for the used optimization algorithm. We propose to split the process into two tasks using specialized algorithms for each stage. First, a phase field model evolves the topology as basic design. By automatic model reduction, we set up the simplified beam model via an adapted Stentiford‐algorithm linked to interface parameters. Then, connection topologies, nodal positions, and cross sections are simultaneous optimization parameters of an Evolution Strategy.
Towards a physical model of Antarctic sea ice microstructure including biogeochemical processes using the extended Theory of Porous Media
Authors: Thom Andrea , Ricken Tim
Published: September 2019

Predictive numerical climate models include an ocean modeling system as an important module, which comprises the components of ocean and sea ice physics as well as the coupled biogeochemical processes occuring in the ocean and sea ice, respectively. Whereas large‐scale, physical sea ice models are well represented, a new thrust for climate modeling is to include the sea ice biogeochemistry (BGC) as a strong influencing factor. For that reason, a demanding challenge is to develop a numerical model for the sea ice microstructure, which considers all relevant physical parts, like the evolution of salinity, thermodynamic properties and mechanical deformation, as well as the biological and chemical conversion processes. The model should be able to quantify phytoplankton biomass, nutrient sources and utilization as well as carbon content and export in connection to the underlying physical and biogeochemical driven mechanisms. A thermodynamically consistent derived continuum mechanical model is developed and prepared by means of a standard GALERKIN procedure to be implemented and solved with the finite element method (FEM). The governing equations and constitutive relations are set up in the framework of the homogenization approach of the extended Theory of Porous Media (eTPM).
A phase‐field model of brittle fracture for an isogeometric Reissner‐Mindlin shell formulation
Authors: Kikis Georgia , Ambati Marreddy , De Lorenzis Laura , Klinkel Sven
Published: September 2019

One of the biggest challenges in fracture modeling is the correct physical description of the fracture processes. Over the past decade, the well‐established phase‐field modeling framework has gained a lot of attention, due to its ability to predict the fracture phenomena adequately. It has shown very promising results for a three dimensional solid formulation and has been extended to an isogeometric Kirchhoff‐Love formulation in order to describe brittle fracture in plates and shells, see [1]. However, the Kirchhoff‐Love theory only describes shells in the thin regime. For thick shells, the deformation behavior and subsequently the fracture behavior additionally depends on the transverse shear strains which are not present in the Kirchhoff‐Love approach. In this work, the phase‐field fracture framework is extended to an isogeometric Reissner‐Mindlin shell formulation [2]. In this approach, the shell is described using the midsurface and a director vector field for the thickness direction. Subsequently, the phase‐field is also defined only on the midsurface. In order to distinguish the cracking behavior in tension and compression, as proposed in [1], the spectral decomposition of the strain for the tension‐compression split is done on the total strain, which varies through the thickness. The proposed method is tested for several numerical examples and compared to a three dimensional solid formulation and the Kirchhoff‐Love shell formulation in order to confirm its accuracy and efficiency.
Coupling and Computation of Electromagnetism and Mechanics
Authors: Abali Bilen Emek
Published: September 2019

Accurate coupling of electromagnetism and mechanics is of interest in computations of transducers such as piezoelectric, pyroelectric, electromagnetic sensors and actuators. Balance equations in mechanics as well as the MAXWELL equations for electromagnetism have been established in science. However, if the coupling between these governing equations are necessary, several difficulties arise. Herein we identify the challenges and propose possible solutions for computational analysis.
Model Order Reduction (MOR) of Function‐Perfusion‐Growth Simulation in the Human Fatty Liver via Artificial Neural Network (ANN)
Authors: Lambers Lena , Ricken Tim , König Matthias
Published: September 2019

Numerical modeling of biological systems has become an important assistance for understanding and predicting hepatic diseases like non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or the detoxification of drugs and toxines by the liver. We developed a model for the simulation of hepatic function‐perfusion processes using a multiscale and multiphase approach. Here, the liver lobules are described using a homogenization approach with a coupled set of partial differential equations (PDE) based on the Theory of Porous Media (TPM) to describe the coupled blood transport and tissue deformation. For the description of metabolic processes on cellular scale ordinary differential equations (ODE) are used. For many practical and clinical applications, e.g. optimization procedures or uncertainty quantification, a fast but reliable computation is required. Thus, we use a non‐linear model order reduction (MOR) based on an artificial neural network (ANN) for the prediction of simulation results. The practicability of this approach is shown in a comparison between the high fidelity numerical simulation of a NAFLD and the predicted results by the ANN.
Design optimization of joint parameters using Frequency Based Substructuring
Authors: El Mahmoudi Ahmed , Paracha Umer S. , Rixen Daniel
Published: September 2019

Dynamic Substructuring (DS) is a research field that has gained high attention in both science and industry. The aim of DS techniques is to provide engineers in structural vibrations and sound practical solutions to analyze the dynamic behavior of complex systems. This paper addresses the design optimization problem of joint parameters to reduce the magnitude of the total system response in the context of the Lagrange Multiplier – Frequency Based Substructuring (LM‐FBS) coupling process. For illustration, we use rubber bushings from an automotive application in the field of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Depending on which parameter is changed on the respective rubber bushing, it has an influence on the sound pressure in the total vehicle system. By grouping the joints into engine mounts, front suspension and rear suspension mounts, a method is proposed to implement an optimization function within the LM‐FBS approach. For this purpose, the rubber bushings are considered as a substructure using the pseudoinverse method, so that in order to determine the optimum parameters, an optimization function only has to be established for the substructure of the bushings in relation to the total system result.
Validation study of computational fluid dynamics models of hemodynamics in the human aorta
Authors: Fuchsberger Jana , Karabelas Elias , Aigner Philipp , Schima Heinrich , Haase Gundolf , Plank Gernot
Published: September 2019

We report on conducting a rigorous validation study where we attempt to compare simulated hemodynamics in a mock model of the human aorta with experimental bi‐plane particle image velocimetry (PIV) data. Within the cardiac modeling framework CARP (Cardiac Arrhythmia Research Package) [12] we implemented a finite element CFD solver based on the residual‐based variational multiscale (RBVMS) discretization of the incompressible Navier‐Stokes equations. CFD simulation results compare favorably with experimental PIV data suggesting that our CFD analysis tools are representative of blood flow in the human aorta.
Requirements for Finding Research Data and Software
Authors: Hermann Sibylle , Iglezakis Dorothea , Seeland Anett
Published: September 2019

Research results in simulation engineering are primarily based on software – from small scripts written by a single researcher to big software projects developed at the researchers institute or by an international community. Usually the research results are published in a publication, whereas the underlying software and data resulting from the software is not available. Consequently, the results which are discussed in an article can be difficult to reproduce. Initiatives like the FAIR data principles try to give an idea how research data can be stored in order to reuse research results. This article describes how the FAIR data principles may be applied for research software in simulation engineering and give an idea how infrastructure services can help researchers handling their research software.
Optimization of structure‐borne sound popagation using structural intensity
Authors: Rothe Sebastian , Langer Sabine C.
Published: September 2019

Reducing noise in mobile applications such as cars, aircrafts and trains is a major challenge for today's engineers. In most cases, sound sources and sound radiating structures are locally separated. The airborne sound field is a result of the excitation and the transfer through the mechanical system. The resulting structure‐borne sound is propagated on transfer paths and finally radiated through plate‐like structures. Therefore, the structure‐borne sound energy should already be efficiently insulated and damped on the way of propagation.

The structural intensity (STI) is a complex vectorial quantity that represents the flow of sound energy in the structure. The real part of STI, can identify areas with a high absorption of structure‐borne sound. These areas should correlate with high damping in the structure, e.g. areas with additionally applied damping measures. If the damping is homogeneously distributed, a uniform distribution of structure‐borne sound energy should be the objective in order to make optimal use of the material damping. The energy flow can be influenced by introducing structural changes. With the help of the direction information and the quantitative value of the STI, the position of such structural changes can be optimized.

In this paper, an optimization procedure is investigated, with which a homogenization of the structure‐borne sound flow is aimed. Numerical studies on generic structures are carried out. The STI for a homogeneously and an inhomogeneously damped plate is calculated and specifically influenced by various measures (e.g. point masses, beads). The aim is the targeted guidance of sound in areas of high damping or the uniform distribution in the structure as well as a shift of eigenfrequencies in order to reduce the mean surface velocity in a defined frequency range.
Novel natural rubber composites based on silver nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes hybrid filler
Authors: Krainoi Apinya , Kummerlöwe Claudia , Nakaramontri Yeampon , Wisunthorn Suwaluk , Vennemann Norbert , Pichaiyut Skulrat , Kiatkamjornwong Suda , Nakason Charoen
Published: September 2019

Hybrid filler of carbon nanotubes (CNT) and silver nanoparticles (AgNP) was prepared and then mixed with natural rubber (NR) with CNT:AgNP ratio = 100:1. The AgNP was first synthesized by reacting silver nitrate with sodium citrate as a reducing agent in an aqueous solution. Then, the UV‐vis spectrometry and transmission emission microscopy were used to follow the reaction forming AgNP and the optimum reaction time was found at about 20 minutes. The latex mixing of NR and CNT‐AgNP hybrid filler was eventually performed. It was also found that the CNT‐AgNP hybrid filler enhanced various properties of the NR composites, including torque difference, storage modulus, and initial modulus (from temperature scanning stress relaxation test) as compared to the conventional NR‐CNT composite. Furthermore, higher electrical conductivity with comparatively low percolation threshold of the hybrid composites was found as compared to the NR‐CNT composite. This might be due to decoration of AgNP particles on CNT surfaces or between CNT bundles caused hindering CNT agglomeration and facilitating electron tunneling. Also, CNT network formation the NR hybrid composite was stronger than in the NR‐CNT composite. Furthermore, strong infinite CNT network formation increased thermal diffusion in the NR‐CNT/AgNP hybrid composite.
Controlled copolymerization of 1‐octene and butyl methacrylate via RAFT and their nonisothermal model‐free thermokinetic decomposition study
Authors: Saikia Maitrayee , Baruah Urmilla , Borphukan Somip , Saikia Prakash J. , Saikia Binoy K. , Baruah Shashi D.
Published: September 2019

Reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) copolymerization of 1‐octene and butyl methacrylate (BMA) was carried out for the first time using 4‐cyano‐4‐(phenylcarbonothioylthio)pentanoic acid as RAFT agent in N,N′‐dimethyl formamide. Poly(1‐octene‐co‐BMA) copolymers with well‐controlled molecular weights and narrow molecular weight distribution were obtained throughout the polymerization. The copolymers have been well characterized by different analytical techniques such as SEC, FT‐IR, NMR, SEM, AFM, XRD, and TG analyses. FT‐IR and NMR analyses confirmed the synthesis of poly(1‐octene‐co‐BMA) copolymers. SEM and AFM analyses demonstrated the wavy‐lamellar morphological structure of the copolymers. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed good thermal stability of poly(1‐octene‐co‐BMA) copolymers synthesized via RAFT mediated polymerization. The thermokinetic parameters were evaluated by adopting model‐free methods of Friedman and Flynn–Wall–Ozawa using the nonisothermal thermogravimetric data. The multivariate nonlinear regression analysis established the most appropriate kinetic model and the corresponding kinetic parameters of thermal decomposition of poly(1‐octene‐co‐BMA) copolymers were also calculated. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 2093–2103
Highly Dispersed ZnSe Nanoparticles Embedded in N‐Doped Porous Carbon Matrix as an Anode for Potassium Ion Batteries
Authors: Hu Yi , Lu Tiantian , Zhang Ya , Sun Yongwen , Liu Jinlong , Wei Denghu , Ju Zhicheng , Zhuang Quanchao
Published: September 2019

Advanced nanostructured functional materials obtained from the precursors of metal–organic frameworks show several unique advantages, including plentiful porous structures and large specific surface areas. Based on this, designed and constructed are highly dispersed ZnSe nanoparticles anchored in a N‐doped porous carbon rhombic dodecahedron (ZnSe@NDPC) by a sequential high‐temperature pyrolysis and selenization method. The specific synthesis process involves a two‐step heat treatment of the template‐engaged reaction between zinc‐based zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF‐8) and selenium power. By optimizing the calcination temperature, the as‐synthesized ZnSe@NDPC‐700 as an advanced anode of potassium ion batteries demonstrates the best electrochemical performance, including a high capacity (262.8 mA h g−1 over 200 cycles at 100 mA g−1) and a good rate capability (109.4 mA h g−1 at 2000 mA g−1 and 52.8 mA h g−1 at 5000 mA g−1). Moreover, the capacitance and diffusion mechanisms are also investigated by the qualitative and quantitate analysis, finally accounting for the superior K storage.
Effects of rotary cell culture system‐simulated microgravity on the ultrastructure and biological behavior of human MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells
Authors: Jiang Nan , Chen Zhengyang , Li Binbin , Guo Song , Li Ao , Zhang Tao , Fu Xiaoyan , Si Shaoyan , Cui Yan
Published: September 2019

Objective

This study aimed to investigate changes in the ultrastructure, apoptosis, cycle progression, and migration ability of human MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells under simulated microgravity conditions.

Methods

MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells were cultured in a rotary cell culture system bioreactor to simulate microgravity for 7 days. The cells were randomly divided into a simulated microgravity (SMG) group and normal gravity control (NG) group. Changes in apoptosis, ultrastructure, cell cycle, and migration ability were evaluated.

Results

Transmission electron microscopy showed that cells in the SMG group had more secondary lysosomes than the NG groups. The flow cytometry assay showed that the proportion of apoptotic cells in the SMG group was significantly increased compared with the NG group; additionally, the median and interquartile spacing of the proportion of cells in the G0/G1 phase in the SMG group was lower than in the NG group, but the proportion of cells in the S phase was increased in the SMG group compared with the NG group. The transwell migration assay showed that cell migration in the SMG group was significantly reduced compared with the NG group. The expression of BCL‐2 and MMP9 in the SMG group was decreased compared with the NG group, whereas the expression of cyclin D3 in the SMG group was increased.

Conclusion

Simulated microgravity through rotary cell culture system had significant effects on human MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells: the cell cycle and ultrastructure were impaired, apoptosis increased, migration ability decreased, and the expression of BCL‐2, cyclin D3, and MMP9 were affected.
Intrapore‐Texturized Vanadia‐Hydrate Supercapacitor with Ultrahigh Area‐Normalized Capacitance
Authors: Chen Ying-Chu , Treptow Jens , Hsu Yu-Kuei , Feldmann Claus
Published: September 2019

A pressing need for ultrahigh area‐normalized capacitance emerges from the migration to miniaturized composite supercapacitors. Herein, an advanced electric field‐assisted sol–gel synthesis protocol that allows to obtain ribbon‐like vanadium oxides that preferentially creep along the porous tunnels in a commercially available carbon host of low density is demonstrated. In particular, this design offers 1) to convert the original submicrometer‐sized pore network into hierarchically macroporous yet 3D‐interconnected bicontinuous composite frameworks and 2) to considerably add pseudo‐capacitive functionalities onto a highly conductive carbon cloth backbone. Both are demonstrated by an unprecedented area‐normalized capacitance exceeding 5 F cm−2. Moreover, the as‐designed symmetric supercapacitor is characterized by a maximum area‐normalized cell capacitance in the order of 1 F cm−2, a geometric energy density of 0.34 mW h cm−2, and a geometric power density of 28.3 mW cm−2. These features outperform commercial double‐layer supercapacitors as well as many state‐of‐the‐art composite pseudo‐capacitors and lithium‐ion microbatteries.
One and two body densities for excited states of the helium confined atom
Authors: Luzón Álvaro , Buendía Enrique , Gálvez Francisco J.
Published: September 2019

A study of the first excited states of the helium atom confined under impenetrable spherical walls is carried out. Both single particle and two body, intracule and extracule, densities are constructed. Crossing levels and Hund's rule are analyzed in terms of the contribution to the total energy from kinetic, electron–nucleus, and electron–electron energies. A study about the behavior of the single particle and two body densities is carried out. The Multiconfiguration Parameterized Optimized Effective Potential method is employed with a cut‐off factor to account for Dirichlet boundary conditions. Single particle density is analytically constructed whereas the Monte Carlo algorithm is used to calculate two body densities.
Where walls of power meet the wall of money: Hydropower in the age of financialization
Authors: Ahlers Rhodante
Published: September 2019

Their ability to absorb substantial capital makes hydropower dams attractive projects for the “wall of money.” Although global webs of dynamic financial flows enable megaspatial transformations with huge temporal impacts, their opacity and fragmentation obfuscate possibilities for democratic decision making and accountability. This paper explores the question whether the interest in renewables and the ability of large infrastructure to absorb capital has changed the role of large dams as instruments of political, financial, and territorial power. An analytical framework inspired by Lefebvre's concept of “production of space” is used to examine the structural and context‐specific dimensions of current hydropower development. Ultimately, we hope to contribute to an alternative conception of the landscape in which the myopic focus on capital accumulation is replaced with social and environmental justice.
Chromophore‐Modified Highly Selective Ratiometric Upconversion Nanoprobes for Detection of ONOO−‐Related Hepatotoxicity In Vivo
Authors: Liu Xiao , Lai Huanhua , Peng Juanjuan , Cheng Dan , Zhang Xiao‐Bing , Yuan Lin
Published: September 2019

Acute hepatitis is a major problem affecting public health and has attracted more and more attention. Generally, as the standard means, blood tests are taken for evaluating hepatitis. However, such tests fail to accurately reflect the level of hepatitis in vivo. Herein, two highly selective ratiometric fluorescent probes are designed to track peroxynitrite (ONOO−) as the hepatitis indicator, and further evaluate acute liver injury in vivo through dye‐grafted upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs). Specifically, upconversion luminescence of nanoprobes at 540 or 660 nm can be quenched by the designed and synthesized chromophore E‐CC or H‐CC, that can be destroyed by ONOO− via energy transfer (ET) process, while the upconversion luminescence intensity at 810 nm remains the same. Thus, the developed nanoprobes can be used for ratiometric detection (I540/I660 or I660/I810) of ONOO−. Moreover, the developed near infrared ratiometric nanoprobes can highly selectively detect ONOO−, which can eliminate the interference of HOCl and SO32−. Finally, it is demonstrated that this highly selective ratiometric nanosystem can achieve effective detection of ONOO− in living cells and CCl4‐induced acute liver injury models. It provides some reference value for clinical detection of hepatotoxicity.
In Vivo Environment‐Adaptive Nanocomplex with Tumor Cell–Specific Cytotoxicity Enhances T Cells Infiltration and Improves Cancer Therapy
Authors: Liu Yiran , Lang Tianqun , Zheng Zhong , Cheng Hui , Huang Xin , Wang Guanru , Yin Qi , Li Yaping
Published: September 2019

Drug delivery strategies possessing selectivity for cancer cells are eagerly needed in therapy of metastatic breast cancer. In this study, the chemotherapeutic agent, docetaxel (DTX), is conjugated onto heparan sulfate (HS). Aspirin (ASP), which has the activity of anti‐metastasis and enhancing T cells infiltration in tumors, is encapsulated into the HS‐DTX micelle. Then the cationic polyethyleneimine (PEI)‐polyethylene glycol (PEG) copolymer binds to HS via electrostatic force, forming the ASP‐loaded HS‐DTX micelle (AHD)/PEI‐PEG nanocomplex (PAHD). PAHD displays long circulation behavior in blood due to the PEG shell. Under the tumor microenvironment with weakly acidic pH, PEI‐PEG separates from AHD, and the free cationic PEI‐PEG facilitates the cellular uptake of AHD by increasing permeability of cell membranes. Then the overexpressed heparanase degrades HS, releasing ASP and DTX. PAHD shows specific toxicity toward tumor cells but not normal cells, with advanced activity of inhibiting tumor growth and lung metastasis in 4T1 tumor‐bearing mice. The number of CD8+ T cells in tumor tissues is also increased. Therefore, PAHD can become an efficient drug delivery system for breast cancer treatment.
Student Learning Communities: An Avenue to Academic Affairs and Student Affairs Partnerships at Historically Black Colleges and Universities
Authors: Kirby Morgan D. , Fitzgerald Faith M. , Marable Robin , Eason Angel L. , Nicholson Shareen , Arroyo Andrew T.
Published: September 2019

This chapter provides an insiders’ view of a partnership between student affairs and academic affairs at one historically Black college or university (HBCU). Using a learning communities initiative as the primary example, we describe how the two divisions have intentionally created a durable working partnership for student success.
A novel locomotive auxiliary converter control strategy with harmonic suppression for avoiding resonance voltage accidents in an electrified railway
Authors: Mu Meijun , Yang Zhongping , Lin Fei , Liu Shihui
Published: September 2019

In recent years, the AC‐DC‐AC electric locomotives have been wildly applied in electrified railways, deteriorating the current quality of network. Therefore, filters in electrified railways are essential. However, considering the volume and weight of filters, it is inappropriate to install them on locomotives. And resonance accident caused by high‐frequency harmonics is hard to suppress because of the low switching speed of high‐power Si‐based devices. In this article, a novel locomotive auxiliary converter control strategy with harmonic suppression function is proposed to filter harmonic currents injected into the traction supply network. By controlling the auxiliary converter, the strategy could complete the function of rectification and filtering, converting power for auxiliary equipment, filtering the harmonic current, and suppressing resonance accidents with the high‐frequency characteristics of SiC devices. For compensating high‐frequency harmonics, the parameters of main circuit and control scheme are analyzed to ensure a stable system. The feasibility of the scheme is verified by simulation and RT‐LAB hardware‐in‐loop experiment. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Influence of voltage unbalance on the steady‐state performance of line start permanent magnet synchronous motors
Authors: Qiu Hongbo , Hu Kaiqiang , Yi Ran , Wei Yanqi
Published: September 2019

The line start permanent magnet synchronous motor (LSPMSM) can be used for direct‐on‐line (DOL) starting, so it is easily affected by voltage unbalance. Based on the finite element method (FEM) and analytical method, the influence of voltage unbalance on the steady‐state performance of LSPMSM is studied in this paper. A two‐dimensional finite element model is built, and the armature current, losses and torque ripple as a function of the phase voltage unbalance rate (PVUR) are obtained. The influence mechanism of voltage unbalance on the steady‐state performance of a motor is demonstrated. Finally, a prototype of LSPMSM is manufactured and tested. By comparing the experimental data with the simulation data, the accuracy of the calculation model is verified, and the correctness of the research is proved. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A multivariate framework to study spatio‐temporal dependency of electricity load and wind power
Authors: Khuntia Swasti R. , Rueda Jose L. , van der Meijden Mart A.M.M.
Published: September 2019

With massive wind power integration, the spatial distribution of electricity load centers and wind power plants make it plausible to study the inter‐spatial dependence and temporal correlation for the effective working of the power system. In this paper, a novel multivariate framework is developed to study the spatio‐temporal dependency using vine copula. Hourly resolution of load and wind power data obtained from a US regional transmission operator spanning 3 years and spatially distributed in 19 load and two wind power zones are considered in this study. Data collection, in terms of dimension, tends to increase in future, and to tackle this high‐dimensional data, a reproducible sampling algorithm using vine copula is developed. The sampling algorithm employs k‐means clustering along with singular value decomposition technique to ease the computational burden. Selection of appropriate clustering technique and copula family is realized by the goodness of clustering and goodness of fit tests. The paper concludes with a discussion on the importance of spatio‐temporal modeling of load and wind power and the advantage of the proposed multivariate sampling algorithm using vine copula.
PolyLogTools — polylogs for the masses
Authors: Duhr Claude , Dulat Falko
Published: September 2019

Abstract

We review the Hopf algebra of the multiple polylogarithms and the symbol map, as well as the construction of single valued multiple polylogarithms and discuss an algorithm for finding fibration bases. We document how these algorithms are implemented in the Mathematica package PolyLogTools and show how it can be used to study the coproduct structure of polylogarithmic expressions and how to compute iterated parametric integrals over polylogarithmic expressions that show up in Feynman integal computations at low loop orders.
The effect of socioeconomic status on severe traumatic injury: a statistical analysis
Authors: Popal Zar , Berkeveld Eva , Ponsen Kees Jan , Goei Harold , Bloemers Frank W. , Zuidema Wietse P. , Giannakopoulos Georgios F.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The amount of studies performed regarding a link between socioeconomic status (SES) and fatal outcome after traumatic injury is limited. Most research is focused on work-related injuries without taking other important characteristics into account. The aim of this study is to examine the association between SES and outcome after traumatic injury.

Methods

The study involved polytrauma patients [Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥ 16] admitted to the Amsterdam University Medical Center (location VUmc) and Northwest Clinics Alkmaar (level 1 trauma centers). The SES of every patient was based on their postal code and represented with a “status score”. Univariate and multivariable analyses were performed to estimate the association between SES and mortality, length of stay at the hospital and length of stay at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Z-statistics were used to determine the difference between the expected and actual survival, based on Trauma Revised Injury Severity Score (TRISS) and PSNL15 (probability of survival based on the Dutch population).

Results

A total of 967 patients were included in this study. The lowest SES group was significantly associated with more penetrating injuries and a younger age (45 years versus 55 years). Additionally, severely injured patients with lower SES were noted to have a prolonged stay at the ICU. Furthermore, differences were found in the expected and observed survival, especially for the lower SES groups.

Conclusion

Polytrauma patients with lower SES have more often penetrating injuries, are younger and have a longer stay at the ICU. No association was found between SES and length of hospital stay and neither between SES and mortality.
Comparison Between Preoperative and Intraoperative Administration of Nefopam for Acute and Chronic Postoperative Pain in Colon Cancer Patients: A Prospective, Randomized, Double‐Blind Study
Authors: Lim Hyungsun , Kang Sehrin , Kim Boram , Ko Seonghoon
Published: September 2019

Background

The present study was designed as a prospective, randomized, double‐blind clinical trial to evaluate the effects of preoperatively administered nefopam on postoperative acute hyperalgesia and the long‐term painful sequelae compared to intraoperative administration.

Methods

One hundred and fifty patients undergoing elective laparoscopic colectomy were enrolled. Group 1 (post‐incisional nefopam) patients received saline at 30 min before skin incision followed by intraoperative administration of 20 mg nefopam at 1 h after incision. Group 2 (pre‐incisional nefopam) patients were administered 20 mg nefopam before skin incision and received saline after skin incision. At postoperative 2, 6, 24, 48, and 72 h, fentanyl consumption and pain intensities at rest and during deep breathing were evaluated by visual analog scale (VAS). The incidence of the long‐term painful sequelae after surgery was evaluated more than one year after surgery.

Results

Cumulative fentanyl consumption during postoperative 72 h was similar between Group 1 and Group 2 (1534 ± 698 μg, 95% CI 1367–1702 μg vs. 1442 ± 721 μg, 95% CI 1266–1618 μg, P = 0.197). VAS pain scores at rest were comparable between the two groups, but VAS scores during deep breathing were significantly lower in Group 2 than in Group 1. Six and five patients complained of mild pain (pain rating 1) at the surgical site in Group 1 and 2, respectively.

Conclusions

Preoperatively administered nefopam reduced exertional pain compared to intraoperative administration although postoperative analgesic consumption was similar between two groups. It may be helpful to conduct early ambulation and deep breathing during the acute postoperative period in patients undergoing intestinal surgery.

Trial registration No: KCT0001656.
Correction to: Inequity in utilization of health care facilities during childbirth: a community-based survey in post-conflict Northern Uganda
Authors: Mukunya David , Tumwine James K. , Ndeezi Grace , Tumuhamye Josephine , Tongun Justin Bruno , Kizito Samuel , Napyo Agnes , Achora Vincentina , Odongkara Beatrice , Arach Agnes Anna , Nankabirwa Victoria
Published: September 2019

The article Inequity in utilization of health care facilities during childbirth: a community-based survey in post-conflict Northern Uganda.
Socio-ecological resilience to climate change effects in peri-urban areas: insights from the Pugu and Kazimzumbwi forest reserves of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Mngumi Lazaro Eliyah
Published: September 2019

This article is exploring socio-ecological system adaptive capacities for building resilience to climate change effects in the peri-urban belt of Dar es Salaam, at the Pugu and Kazimzumbwi forest reserves. Three selected hamlets (Nzasa, Kisarawe and Pugu–Kibaoni) constitute the study area. A combination of household interview, key informant interview, focus group discussion complemented by literature review compose data collection techniques deployed. The study revealed diverse socio-ecological system ‘adaptive capacities’ for building resilience to climate change effects. These includes socio-cultural i.e. heterogenous ethnic groups, promising literacy rate, diverse age cohorts within the population and diverse occupations. Another set of adaptive capacities at Pugu and Kazimzumbwi socio-ecological system regards diverse and innovative ecosystem services based income generating activities i.e. Bee keeping industry and tourism industry in its multiple forms (food tourism, arts and craft tourism and nature tourism). Overall, the Pugu and Kazimzumbwi socio-ecological system has considerable adaptive capacities providing ample platform for agents to act upon in building resilience to climate change effects. It is hereby recommended that the nature, role and extent of agency be explored so as to establish the status quo and therefore the feasible entry point for policy intervention.
Developing perspectives on ‘the demonstration’ as a signature pedagogy in design and technology education
Authors: McLain Matt
Published: September 2019

This paper builds on a previous study of the ‘demonstration’ as a signature pedagogy in design and technology (D&T). The demonstration is a fundamental pedagogical tool in practical subjects, for the development of learners’ procedural knowledge, from observation and imitation to autonomy and adaption of a technique. As such, it tends to align itself at the restrictive end of an expansive–restrictive pedagogical continuum. In the preceding study, a dialogue emerged around the role of the teacher as a “competent management of the learning experience”, including teachers’ competency and clarity of subject knowledge. The findings of this study highlight two similar, yet distinct, perspectives of the teacher as anexpertand the teacher as afacilitator. This study continues a developing professional conversation around the nature of the demonstration, exploring a snapshot of teacher educators’ subjective beliefs and values. The responses of the participants to a set of 62 statements, representing a range of potential opinions and perspectives, were deployed and analysed using Q Methodology. The sample is purposive and comprised of D&T teacher educators based in England. The study draws parallels with direct instruction and demonstration, and concludes that there different approaches to and ways of viewing demonstration. In addition, further consideration of the expansive–restrictive continuum as a framework for planning and evaluating learning in D&T may support theorisation of the subject, inculcation of theory and research informed practice.
Service design for public transportation to address the issue of females’ fear of crime
Authors: Kim Hyunjin
Published: September 2019

In conjunction with their gender, how does the current design of public transport services affect female passengers’ feelings of safety and fear when using the service? This study explores the influential service design attributes of the London Underground on fear of crime in female users through abductive reasoning, in which a hypothesis is provisionally selected by constantly moving back and forth between data and existing theories to find the best possible explanation of the researched phenomenon. Consequently, it proposes a conceptual model for understanding female passengers’ fear of crime in connection with public transport services and suggests influential factors of public transport service design when considering the social problem. It, therefore, draws a more befitting frame of reference for design and improvement of public transport services to ameliorate fear of crime than those based simply on crime prevention.
Anthropometric measurements of singleton live full-term newborns in Aden, Yemen
Authors: Ba-Saddik Iman Ali , Al-Asbahi Thuriya Omer
Published: September 2019

Background:

Neonatal anthropometry is the single most portable, universally applicable cheap, and noninvasive technique that deals with a variety of human body measurements. The anthropometric data for newborns, infants and children reflect their general health, nutritional status, and future survival by tracking trends in growth and development over time.

Patients and methods:

The present study was conducted on 1000 Yemeni singleton live full-term newborns (37–42 weeks gestation), 488 males and 512 females during first 24 h of delivery at Al-Sadaqa Teaching Hospital, Aden, Yemen during the years 2002–2003.

Results:

The data analysis of seven anthropometric values for 1000 Yemeni term newborns of both sexes revealed the mean birth weight and SD was 3113.04 g (±519.52), crown-heel length, head, chest, midarm, abdominal and calf circumferences were 48.91 (1.62), 33.78 (1.13), 32.09 (1.48), 10.09 (1.02), 30.10 (1.92), and 10.94 (1.04) respectively. The Ponderal Index was calculated with mean value of 2.65 (0.40). This study showed significant sex differences in all the anthropometric measurements principally in the birth weight (3187.66 versus 3039.04) and crown-heel length CHL (49.28 versus 48.53). (P < .001). The best cut-off point to determine LBW was calf circumference (8.5 cm), which showed the most significant correlation with birth weight (r = 0.5) followed by chest (r = 0.44) and mid-arm circumference (r = 0.41).

Conclusions:

This study of normal reference values will provide basic step for future standardization of Yemen anthropometric parameters to be used for accurate assessment, development and maturity of newborn births that would lead to identify newborns at risk and help in better management.
Chinese herbal medicine Qinggongshoutao for the treatment of amnestic mild cognitive impairment: A 52‐week randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tian Jinzhou , Shi Jing , Wei Mingqing , Ni Jingnian , Fang Zhiyong , Gao Jinyu , Wang Heng , Yao Hongjun , Zhang Jintao , Li Juntao , Min Min , Su Likai , Sun Xiuqiao , Wang Baoai , Wang Baoshen , Yang Faming , Zou Yong , Hu Yueqiang , Lin Yaming , Xu Guangyin , Li Kang , Li Lei , Zhen Hui , Xu Jinyan , Chen Keji , Wang Yongyan ,   CHARM study group
Published: September 2019

Introduction

This randomized, double‐blind trial aimed to test effect of a Chinese herbal medicine, Qinggongshoutao (QGST) pill, on the cognition and progression of amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI).

Methods

Patients with aMCI were randomly assigned to receive QGST, Ginkgo biloba extract, or placebo for 52 weeks. The primary outcome measures were progression to possible or probable Alzheimer's disease (AD) and change in Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale–cognitive subscale scores; secondary outcome measures included assessments for cognition and function.

Results

Total 350 patients were enrolled, possible or probable AD developed in 10. There were significant differences in the probability of progression to AD in the QGST group (1.15%) compared with placebo group (10%). There was significant difference in Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale–cognitive subscale scores in favor of QGST over the placebo group. Secondary outcome measure (Mini‐Mental State Examination) also showed benefit in QGST at end point.

Discussion

In patients with aMCI, QGST showed lower AD progression rate than placebo at 8.85%, and may have benefit on global cognition.
Magnetic attitude tracking control of gravity gradient microsatellite in orbital transfer
Authors: Sun Liang , Wang Zhiwen , Zhao Guowei , Huang Hai
Published: September 2019

The problem of the magnetic attitude tracking control is studied for a gravity gradient microsatellite in orbital transfer. The contributions of the work are mainly shown in two aspects: (1) the design of an expected attitude trajectory; (2) a method of the magnetic attitude tracking control. In orbital transfer, the gravity gradient microsatellite under a constant thrust shows complicated dynamic behaviours. In order to damp out the pendular motion, the gravity gradient microsatellite is subject to the the attitude tracking problem. An expected attitude trajectory is designed based on dynamic characteristics revealed in the paper, which not only ensures the flight safety of the system, but also reduces the energy consumption of the controller. Besides, the control torque produced by a magnetorquer is constrained to lie in a two-dimensional plane orthogonal to the magnetic field, so an auxiliary compensator is proposed to improve the control performance, which is different from existing magnetic control methods. In addition, a sliding mode control based on the compensator is presented, and the Lyapunov stability analysis is performed to show the global convergence of the tracking error. Finally, a numerical case of the gravity gradient microsatellite is studied to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed tracking control.
The Essence of the Fundamental Right to Equal Treatment: Back to the Origins
Authors: Muir Elise
Published: September 2019

The principle of equal treatment is essential to the process of European integration. It is one of the main principles – if not the main principle – driving this process forward. Equal treatment between States and the prohibition to discriminate on grounds of nationality are indeed cornerstones of the European project. Furthermore, the principle of equal treatment is a fundamental right according to which comparable situations must not be treated differently, and that different situations must not be treated in the same way unless such treatment is objectively justified. This fundamental right has also been given more specific expression in a set of Treaty provisions and Directives prohibiting discrimination on grounds of sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age, or sexual orientation. Precisely because the principle of equal treatment performs several important functions in the EU legal order, it is shaped by several sets of actors: constituent powers, legislature and judiciary. The article first maps out the various functions that the principle of equal treatment fulfills in EU law, placing emphasis on the complexity of the relevant constitutional framework. This sets the floor for a critical discussion on how different institutional visions of the principle may compete, and a reflection of the role of the concept of ‘essence’ to articulate these competing visions.
The Essence of the Fundamental Right to an Effective Remedy and to a Fair Trial in the Case-Law of the Court of Justice of the European Union: The Best Is Yet to Come?
Authors: Gutman Kathleen
Published: September 2019

This contribution examines the developing contours of the essence of the fundamental right to an effective remedy and to a fair trial in the light of salient case-law of the Court of Justice of the European Union. It is divided into three main parts. The first part provides an overview of the meaning of the essence of fundamental rights in EU law and the scope of the inquiry in relation to Article 47 of the Charter of the Fundamental Rights of the European Union (“the Charter”). The second part evaluates the essence of the fundamental right to an effective remedy and to a fair trial in connection with justified limitations that may be placed on its exercise as provided for in Article 52(1) of the Charter within the framework of the EU system of fundamental rights protection, which in turn implicates the relationship with the Court’s case-law on national procedural autonomy, equivalence, and effectiveness. The third part delves into the essence of the fundamental right to an effective remedy and to a fair trial within the framework of the EU system of judicial protection, as illustrated by the Court’s case-law in several areas, including standing for individuals in direct actions before the EU courts, judicial independence, and restrictive measures in the Common Foreign and Security Policy. Through this analysis, the author argues that, while much awaits further refinement, certain recent developments in the Court’s case–law indicate that the essence of the fundamental right to an effective remedy and to a fair trial can play a meaningful role in the EU system of fundamental rights protection and the EU system of judicial protection more broadly, and thus the best may be yet to come as that case-law progresses in the future.