bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Response of a Spar Floating Wind Turbine Under the Occurrence of Extreme Events
Authors: Nava Vincenzo , Bagbanci Hasan , Guedes Soares C. , Arena Felice
Published: November 2013

In this paper, the quasi-determinism theory is applied for the computation of forces jointly generated from wind and waves. A coupled 3-degree-of-freedom (3-dofs) model of a floating spar-type 5 MW wind turbine is herein studied subject to wind and waves under the occurrence of wind and sea. Numerical simulations of forces in the time domain are carried out using FAST software, taking into account the hydrodynamic characteristics of the floater obtained in the frequency domain by WAMIT through panel method. Equations of motion are integrated by means of a Runge-Kutta routine and time histories and statistics of responses of the model are calculated. Further, a quasi-deterministic approach is followed in order to predict the short-term responses under the occurrence of extreme (low probability, given a fixed sea state) events and results finally compared with those obtained from the more time-consuming numerical simulations.
Experimentally Calibrated Time-Domain Numerical Model for a Fixed OWC Device
Authors: Iturrioz Arantza , Guanche Raúl , Armesto José A. , Vidal César , Losada Íñigo J.
Published: November 2013

Oscillating Water Column technology (OWC) is one of the most promising Wave energy Converter (WEC) technologies. Different OWC devices are nowadays under development: fixed or floating, with one or several chambers. The correct understanding and efficient modelling of the simple problem of a fixed detached OWC is the basis of all of them. For this aim, a combined numerical-experimental working methodology has been followed, since it is believed to be the only way to make a real step forward in this field. Due to the high economic and time costs of experimental and field testing, the use of reliable numerical models is essential, especially during the early stages of the development. For this purpose, numerical models need to be calibrated and validated based on experimental data, ensuring realistic tools for OWC analysis. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models are widely considered the best way to analyze the dynamics involved in the problem. However, these models are complex and high computational demanding and the accuracy they offer is not necessary for a first approximation to the problem. Therefore, a simplified and faster time-domain model was built for the first stages of WEC analysis.
Assessment of Loading on the Carcass and Pressure Armour due to Environment Swelling of Polymer
Authors: Fernando Upul S. , Davidson Michelle , Harries Iwan , Thompson Andrew , Sheldrake Terry
Published: November 2013

Flexible pipes consist of multi-layer structures comprising polymer extrusions, tapes and insulation that are trapped between layers of helically-wrapped steel wires. Under certain pressure and temperature service conditions, and when the polymers are in contact with certain chemicals (such as supercritical CO2), these polymer layers may experience significant volumetric changes caused by permeation, solubility and absorption of chemicals into the polymer structure. The swelling of the polymer barrier can result in a significant increase in load on the carcass and pressure armour that may compromise the integrity of the pipe. This paper investigates the effect of the volumetric changes in the barrier and how that can influence the extra loading exerted on carcass and pressure armour under service conditions.

A simple analytical model has been proposed to predict the extra loading acting on the carcass and the pressure armour. The proposed procedure has been validated using FE results. Experiments have been performed using a three-layer simulated setup and full-scale pipe to investigate the load acting on the carcass and pressure armour. A brief description of the test program and the results are presented. Tests clearly show that there is only a limited increase in hoop stress in the carcass or the pressure armour in pipes immersed in acetone, although the barrier swelled considerably under unconstrained conditions. An empirical procedure has been proposed to account for this swelling retardation behavior. The effect of the PVDF barrier swelling in pressurized supercritical CO2 environments is discussed.
Designing Process and Motion Characteristics of Spar Type Offshore Wind Turbines
Authors: Nihei Yasunori , Ikoma Tomoki , Kozen Minori , Sato Fumiya , Murai Motohiko , Iijima Kazuhiro
Published: November 2013

In this paper, we will discuss about the designing process and the motion characteristics of the spar type offshore wind turbines. When considering a spar type structure for offshore wind turbines, it is important to take a lot of elements into consideration which have not yet been considered in the case of oil and gas platforms. In this research, we used the following standards to conduct our tests. The limit of the heel angle was 5 degrees when the wind turbines are generating in the rated state. When designing the substructure for this research we have decided to go with a substructure that operates in depth of 100m or more. Following the conditions above we have designed the spar type offshore wind turbine used for this research. In order to compare the simulated result we have created a scale model and performed tank tests under various conditions. Also we observed unexpected motion characteristics in certain mooring arrangement. So we will touch these subjects in this paper.
Influence of Ship Behaviour in a Seaway on CO2 Emissions
Authors: Prpić-Oršić Jasna , Faltinsen Odd Magnus , Mrakovčić Tomislav
Published: November 2013

A reliable prediction of attainable ship speed at actual seas is essential from economical and environmental aspects. At this paper a methodology for estimating the attainable speed and related fuel consumption and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in moderate and severe sea is proposed. The irregular sea is handled as a series of regular waves with different amplitudes and frequencies. The added resistance in regular waves is obtained by either a direct pressure integration method or an asymptotic small wavelength formula. The in-and-out-of-water-effect and ventilation of a propeller in severe seas is accounted for by a quasi-steady averaging of experimental data for different propeller submergences. The propulsion results for regular waves are used in simulating results in irregular waves. It is shown that for higher sea states this effect has much more influence on the speed loss than the added resistance in waves. The speed loss is calculated by taking into account the engine and propeller performance in actual seas as well as the mass inertia of the ship.

The numerical model used for main propulsion engine modeling is based on a zero-dimensional model of an internal combustion engine. The main propulsion engine is represented by number of control volumes interconnected with links for mass and energy transfer between them. This model provides excellent prediction of engine dynamic response during transients with rather short computational time. Also, engine fuel consumption can be precisely determined which represents the basic presumption for estimation of carbon-dioxide emission. Furthermore, use of such model can be extended to determination of the lowest fuel oil consumption strategy for given sea condition and ship speed with resulting lowest possible CO2 emissions. The attainable ship speed is obtained as time series. Correlation of speed loss with sea states allows predictions of propulsive performance in actual seas.
Optimisation of Subsea Tie-In Spools Using Evolutionary Algorithms
Authors: Madeley Chris
Published: November 2013

Tie-in spools must be designed to resist a large number of onerous load combinations. These loads include gravitational, temperature, pressure and environmental loads along with various imposed displacements. Additionally, there are several design constraints that must be satisfied. Due to the three-dimensional geometric freedom of the spool there are many possible design scenarios that could be evaluated in the search for the optimum solution.

It is the responsibility of the pipeline design engineer to use their own judgment and experience to find the best possible solution within the design period. Traditionally a trial and error design approach is used in an iterative manner. This method is typically slow and labor intensive and can be too focused on one design concept at the expense of others that are potentially superior. On similar engineering problems with many design parameters automated non-linear optimization routines have been shown to be very effective. Specifically, applying evolutionary algorithms is a robust, time-effective and adaptable approach. Such a tool assists the engineer in finding superior design solutions and assists in searching the entire design space.

To test this design method, a multi-objective evolutionary algorithm has been applied to two semi-constrained spool design problems. The spool design has been modeled using finite element analysis. First, the algorithm was applied to the optimization of spool geometry for multiple design objectives. Within 24-hours of runtime the algorithm was able to find superior solutions to those found using a traditional iterative approach. Also, the trade-off between conflicting design objectives could be quantified and visualized to enable the designer to select the most appropriate candidate. The second problem evaluated was the placement of supports to mitigate the onset of vortex induced vibration (VIV). The algorithm was again able to quickly find a better solution and quantify the tradeoff between conflicting design objectives. The paper presents the results of this new design process as applied by subsea pipeline engineers to find optimum spool designs.
Parametric Rolling Simulations of Container Ships
Authors: Turk Anton , Prpić-Oršić Jasna , Guedes Soares Carlos
Published: November 2013

A hybrid nonlinear time domain seakeeping analysis is applied to the study of a container ship advancing at different headings and encounter frequencies. A time-domain nonlinear strip theory in six degrees-of-freedom has been extended to predict ship motions by solving the unsteady hydrodynamic problem in the frequency domain and the equations of motion in the time domain which allows introducing nonlinearities in the linear model. The code is used to make parametric roll predictions for various speeds and headings and the results are summarized in a very intuitive 2D and 3D polar plots showing the full range of the parametric rolling realizations. The method developed is fairly accurate, robust, very computationally efficient, and can predict nonlinear ship motions. It is well suited to be used as a tool in ship design or as part of a path optimization model.
A Study on the Response of a Flexible Pipe to Combined Axisymmetric Loads
Authors: de Sousa José Renato M. , Magluta Carlos , Roitman Ney , Londoño Tatiana V. , Campello George C.
Published: November 2013

In this work, the response of a 2.5″ flexible pipe to combined and pure axisymmetric loads is studied. A set of experimental tests was carried out and the results obtained are compared to those provided by a previously presented finite element model. The pipe was firstly subjected to pure tension. After that, the response to torsion superimposed with tension combined or not with internal pressure and the response to internal pressure combined with tension were investigated. In all these cases, the induced strains in the tensile armors were measured. Moreover, the axial elongation of the pipe was monitored in the pure tension test, whilst the twist of the pipe was measured when torsion was imposed and the axial reaction force was monitored when internal pressure was applied. The experimental results obtained agreed very well with the theoretical estimations indicating that the response of the pipe to tension and internal pressure is linear, whilst its response to torsion is nonlinear due to friction between layers.
An Experimental Investigation of Turbulent Drag Reduction in Concentric Annulus Using Particle Image Velocimetry Technique
Authors: Corredor Fabio Ernesto Rodriguez , Bizhani Majid , Kuru Ergun
Published: November 2013

Polymer drag reduction is investigated using the Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) technique in fully developed turbulent flow through a horizontal flow loop with concentric annular geometry (inner to outer pipe radius ratio = 0.4). The polymer used was a commercially available partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (PHPA). The polymer concentration was varied from 0.07 to 0.12% V/V. The drag reduction is enhanced by increasing polymer concentration until the concentration reaches an optimum value. After that, the drag reduction is decreased with the increasing polymer concentration. Optimum concentration value of PHPA was found to be around 0.1% V/V. Experiments were conducted at solvent Reynolds numbers of 38700, 46700 and 56400. The percent drag reduction was found to be increasing with the increasing Reynolds number.

The study was also focused on analyzing the mean flow and turbulence statistics for fully-turbulent flow using the velocity measurements acquired by PIV. Axial mean velocity profile was found to be following the universal wall law close to the wall (i.e., y+ <10), but it deviated from log law results with an increased slope in the logarithmic zone (i.e., y+ >30). In all cases of polymer application, the viscous sublayer (i.e., y+ <10) thickness was found to be higher than that of the water flow. Reynolds shear stress in the core flow region was found to be decreasing with the increase in polymer concentration.
Assessing the Importance of Nonlinearities in the Development of a Substructure Model for the Wind Turbine CAE Tool FAST
Authors: Damiani Rick R. , Song Huimin , Robertson Amy N. , Jonkman Jason M.
Published: November 2013

The design and analysis of wind turbines are performed using aero-servo-elastic tools that account for the nonlinear coupling between aerodynamics, controls, and structural response. The NREL-developed computer-aided engineering (CAE) tool FAST also resolves the hydrodynamics of fixed-bottom structures and floating platforms for offshore wind applications.

Primarily due to the required modal characteristics, monopiles become progressively less economical and more difficult (or impossible) to fabricate for multimegawatt turbines and water depths of more than 25–30 m. Derived from the oil and gas industry experience, light and stiff space-frame alternatives have been proposed to alleviate this problem. Lattice structures (e.g., jackets) are more complex to analyze and design than cantilevered monopiles, especially in terms of the structural dynamics of the coupled turbine-support structure system.

This paper outlines the implementation of a structural-dynamics module (SubDyn) for offshore wind turbines with space-frame substructures into the current FAST framework, and in particular focuses on the initial assessment of the importance of structural nonlinearities. Nonlinear effects include: large displacements, axial shortening due to bending, cross-sectional transverse shear effects, etc. A nonlinear computational analysis is resource-intensive, thus it is important to assess the applicability of a linear approach to maintain high-fidelity results while still allowing for fast and efficient design simulations. Space-frame structural behavior can be controlled by a number of design parameters (e.g., member cross-sectional properties, number of legs, batter angles). Additionally, nonlinearities may manifest only at certain load levels. Several finite-element analyses were carried out via commercial and open-source codes that can capture nonlinear effects in the structural behavior of turbine substructures under different load cases. Results were compared to the output of the new linear module SubDyn. The configurations considered in this study included 5-MW, 7-MW, and 10-MW platforms: OC3 monopile, OC3 tripod, OC4 jacket, and a full-lattice tower, all supporting a 5-MW turbine; also two jackets for a 7-MW and a 10-MW turbine, respectively, were investigated. These models differed in base geometry, load paths, size, supported towers, and turbine masses. Results showed that nonlinearities (quantified in terms of the maximum differences in displacement and stresses with respect to a linear calculation) amounted to about 4% (3%) at tower top (at tower base), or about 10 cm (1 cm). This means that the absolute effects of nonlinearities are mostly associated with the tower. The linear approach used by the multimember structural module introduced in this paper was therefore deemed suitable to be utilized within FAST to analyze multimember substructures for offshore wind applications.
A Novel Concept for Self Installing Offshore Wind Turbines
Authors: Wåsjø Kasper , Bermúdez Rico Jorge Vicente , Bjerkås Morten , Søreide Tore
Published: November 2013

The present paper describes a novel concept of a self-installing offshore wind turbine.

A concept for combined installation of the substructure and turbine in one single operation without the need of expensive installation vessels is described.

The stability of the concept during transport and installation is obtained by two structurally connected standard barges with dimension 92 × 32 m.

The concept proves to be stable with weather window equal HS = 4 m for transport and Hs = 1.5 m for installation in the waiting of more accurate analyses.

A cost saving potential in this early phase of 17% is identified compared to the more common steel jacket solution. The cost saving is related to the installation process.
Effects of Crack Front Curvature on J and CTOD Determination in Fracture Toughness Specimens by FEA
Authors: Hutchison Emily K. , Pisarski Henryk G.
Published: November 2013

This paper investigates the effect of crack curvature on a single edge notched bend (SENB) specimen using finite element analysis (FEA). The variations of J and CTOD were studied through the thickness of the specimen for different levels of crack curvature. Five different curved crack fronts were considered, with the same weighted average crack length based on BS 7448. The levels of curvature varied from a straight crack front to a maximum deviation of 25% from the average crack length. The findings can be used to recommend more comprehensive crack curvature qualification checks for SENB tests and potentially provide improved estimates of fracture toughness when curvature is greater than allowed by the standard.
Technology Innovations of the Flow Assurance System in the Development of the Liwan 3-1 Deepwater Gas Field
Authors: Li Qingping , Yao Haiyuan , Wang Kai
Published: November 2013

As we know, the Liwan3-1 gas field is the first deepwater gas field with water depth 1480m in the Southern China Sea. The seabed temperature is only 3–4 °C. Moreover, the complex of the gas oil and water multiphase flow, seabed hypsographic feature and operation activities etc., bring a series of problems to subsea transportation system, such as solid formation (hydrate, wax), severe slug flow in deep water riser, multiphase flow corrosions and solid particle’s erosion etc. This paper briefly summarizes the typical flow assurance innovation technologies related to the Liwan3-1 gas field, include the layout of Liwan3-1 deepwater subsea production system, the dual-pipe 79km-length subsea tied back system design, the hydrate forecast and control technology, slug forecast-control and pigging method for the subsea tied back system along the slope, the gas recycle system design for low production rate. Also, the potential gas field development and flow management technologies are also discussed in this paper.
Comparison of Plastic Collapse Solutions for Surface Breaking Flaws in Standard Assessment Procedures With FEA
Authors: Saraswat Rajil , Mirzaee-Sisan Ali
Published: November 2013

Engineering Critical Assessment (ECA) procedures generally use the Failure Assessment Diagram (FAD) concept for integrity assessment of components containing flaws. An FAD assessment is described by Kr and Lr values, where Kr reflects the toughness of the material while Lr measures the proximity to plastic collapse. Nowadays pipeline girth welds generally have high fracture toughness (Kmat) and it can be argued that plastic collapse is the governing failure mode. The definition of plastic collapse can affect the determination of the Lr parameter and should be carefully chosen. In the present work finite element analysis has been carried out to evaluate the collapse load under local collapse and global collapse conditions. These have been compared with the solutions available in the BS7910 and R6 procedures and the differences have been highlighted. The impact of the choice of plastic collapse solution on the crack driving force has been analysed.
A Simplified Methodology for Comparing Fatigue Loading on Subsea Wellheads
Authors: Holden Harald , Bjønnes Pål , Russo Massimiliano
Published: November 2013

This paper presents a simplified way of comparing the fatigue load on different subsea wells. The simplest comparison is done by accumulating the number of days BOP has stayed connected to the wellhead. The wellhead fatigue load is however heavily dependent on the vessels used, water depth and weather while connected to the well. An equation for deriving a benchmark load factor for each operation phase for a subsea well is proposed. This benchmark load factor takes into account the water depth, metocean season of the operation, BOP height and weight, and the stiffness of the marine riser lower flex joint. This benchmark load factor will represent a standard number of days with a BOP connected, correcting for some known effects. The goal has been to define a measure of ‘BOP days’ that accounts for the water depth, operational season, and BOP particulars. A base case (one MODU, 100 m water depth, and all year operation), equating to one standard BOP day, has been chosen as the reference for all cases discussed.

The validity of the benchmark load equation will be shown through a comparison with 31 different global riser analyses intended for wellhead fatigue. For each of the 31 data sets, time domain load analysis is done for all sea states in the wave scatter diagram. The different analyses covers different rigs, water depths and two operational phases (with or without subsea XT installed). To enable a large scale comparison of the bench mark factor, an approach where the fatigue load is summarized using the bending moment standard deviation on the wellhead datum is presented. This methodology is then compared to four full fatigue calculations using a typical subsea wellhead fatigue capacity. Then the simplified fatigue calculation is performed for all 31 global riser analyses. The calculated damage is then compared with the corresponding bench mark formula in each case.

Finally it is shown how this benchmark load formula has been implemented into the Statoil WellSpot database as a fatigue load criticality screening tool for the different Statoil subsea wells. It is further shown how this can be used as a tool during planning of future operations, and how to prioritize wells where a detailed fatigue analysis is recommended.
Experience in the Application of the Goal Setting Regime and Risk-Based Design of Safety Critical Elements in the Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Brewerton Robert W. , Geddes Paul , Medonos Sava , Raman Raghu , Wilkins Christopher C. E.
Published: November 2013

The research and development activities following the Piper Alpha disaster have resulted in significantly improved technical safety of oil & gas facilities offshore and onshore. This improved technical safety resulted from the development of goal-setting, risk-based approach, the objective of which was to open the routes for design optimization and remove previous constraints that addressed the worst case and was prescriptive. Despite this initiative, a Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA), while still being carried out, often remains “disconnected” from the practical design and prescriptive methods still take precedence. Resorting solely to a prescriptive approach can result in adequate protection missing in places where it should be, and applied in areas where there is a low likelihood of the hazard. This Paper addresses the application in the facility design, risk based methods and known behavior of structures and equipment in accidents. It stresses the importance of practical experience in the application of fire and explosion protection, and adequate design and operational experience. The Paper focuses on fire and explosion hazards and is based on more than 30 years of the authors’ experience in supporting facility design and assessment. Such approach has resulted in solutions with improved technical safety and significant cost-savings. It addresses both new installations and modifications of existing facilities.
Estimation of Short Term Probability Distributions of Wave Induced Loads Acting on a Cruise Vessel in Extreme Seas
Authors: Rajendran Suresh , Fonseca Nuno , Guedes Soares C.
Published: November 2013

A time domain code based on strip theory is applied to calculate the probability distributions of relative motions and bending moments of a cruise ship in a set of extreme seas. The code includes two levels of complexity. The simpler one combines linear radiation and diffraction forces with nonlinear Froude-Krylov forces, hydrostatic forces and shipping of green water on the bow. Cummins formulation is used to represent the radiation forces. The second approach is a generalization of the first one and, although the formulation is based on the linear assumption (of the radiation forces), the effects of body nonlinearity are considered by a simplified method: the memory functions, infinite frequency added masses and the radiation restoring coefficients are assessed at each time instant as function of the instantaneous wetted surface. A similar procedure is used to calculate the diffraction forces.

The code is used to analyze the responses of a cruise ship in a set of extreme sea conditions. The nonlinear radiation and diffraction effects on the responses are analyzed by comparing the “fully nonlinear” results with the numerical predictions assuming linear radiation and diffraction forces. The short term nonlinear responses are represented by empirical probability distributions, obtained from time domain simulations, and the quality of the predictions is assessed by comparing with model tests experimental data.
Low Emission LNG Fuelled Ships for Environmental Friendly Operations in Arctic Areas
Authors: Æsøy Vilmar , Stenersen Dag
Published: November 2013

Environmental restrictions now favor cleaner fuels, and Natural gas (LNG) is one of the most promising alternative fuels. Highly efficient natural gas fuelled engines have been developed since around 1990. These engines are now entering maritime applications, offering significant emission reductions, both in a local and global perspective. Using LNG as fuel reduce NOx emissions by up to 90%, SOx and particulate matter (soot) are reduced by 95–100% and CO2 emissions are reduced by up to 25%, when compared to traditional marine fuels. These emission reductions are significant contribution especially in local and regional environments. Using LNG as a clean fuel also offers a significant increase in total energy efficiency. Combining power and heat generation, natural gas fuelled engines for on-shore power generation offer a total thermal efficiency of 80–90%, depending on the waste heat recovery rate. For liquid fuels exhaust heat recovery is limited due to the sulfur content, which may cause acid corrosion. Onboard ships, LNG fuelled engines have potential to utilize waste heat to obtain significant higher thermal efficiency than their diesel engine counterpart.

LNG is mainly available from fossil sources, but now also increasingly from renewable sources as bio-gas. For storing and transportation LNG is preferred as less challenging compared to high pressure CNG. On the coast of Norway a LNG distribution system is now being built, supplying a fleet of more than 40 ships. LNG is transported by special designed small LNG carriers from the production plants to a series of main terminals along the coastline. From these main terminals the LNG is distributed by trucks to the local fuelling stations, or for direct fuelling of the ships.

This paper will present the basic technology and experiences from this full scale LNG fuel system. The paper will discuss local and global environmental benefits, technical solutions, safety issues, and costs issues related to the distribution system and the on-board fuel installations.
Investigations of the Mode of Action and Resistance Development of Cadazolid, a New Antibiotic for Treatment of Clostridium difficile Infections
Authors: Locher Hans H. , Caspers Patrick , Bruyère Thierry , Schroeder Susanne , Pfaff Philippe , Knezevic Andreja , Keck Wolfgang , Ritz Daniel
Published: November 2013

Cadazolid is a new oxazolidinone-type antibiotic currently in clinical development for the treatment of
Clostridium difficile
-associated diarrhea. Here, we report investigations on the mode of action and the propensity for spontaneous resistance development in
C. difficile
strains. Macromolecular labeling experiments indicated that cadazolid acts as a potent inhibitor of protein synthesis, while inhibition of DNA synthesis was also observed, albeit only at substantially higher concentrations of the drug. Strong inhibition of protein synthesis was also obtained in strains resistant to linezolid, in agreement with low MICs against such strains. Inhibition of protein synthesis was confirmed in coupled transcription/translation assays using extracts from different
C. difficile
strains, including strains resistant to linezolid, while inhibitory effects in DNA topoisomerase assays were weak or not detectable under the assay conditions. Spontaneous resistance frequencies of cadazolid were low in all strains tested (generally <10
−10
at 2× to 4× the MIC), and in multiple-passage experiments (up to 13 passages) MICs did not significantly increase. Furthermore, no cross-resistance was observed, as cadazolid retained potent activity against strains resistant or nonsusceptible to linezolid, fluoroquinolones, and the new antibiotic fidaxomicin. In conclusion, the data presented here indicate that cadazolid acts primarily by inhibition of protein synthesis, with weak inhibition of DNA synthesis as a potential second mode of action, and suggest a low potential for spontaneous resistance development.
Acute cytomegalovirus hepatitis in an immunocompetent host
Authors: Sy Alexander M , Omobomi Olabimpe , Lenox Theodore , Bergasa Nora V
Published: November 2013

A 52-year-old woman presented with a 1-week history of recurrent fevers and joint pains accompanied by abdominal and low back discomfort. She has a history of hypoparathyroidism and is on calcium supplements. Physical examination revealed fever and tachycardia. The rest of the examination was normal. Laboratory tests showed newly increased transaminase activity. Serum bilirubin and prothrombin time were normal. She was admitted for evaluation of acute hepatitis. Serology for hepatitis A, B, C and HIV were negative. Her serum acetaminophen and alcohol were undetected. Abdominal imaging was normal. Cultures were sterile. Additional tests for uncommon viral hepatitis included herpes simplex virus, cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr virus. Liver biopsy revealed non-specific inflammation. Subsequently, cytomegalovirus serology showed an IgM positive and negative IgG titre. Cytomegalovirus DNA qualitative PCR was also positive. No antiviral medication was given. She continued to have intermittent daily fever but reported no associated symptoms. She was discharged 9 days after admission in stable condition per her request with the advice to follow-up in the clinic in 1 week. Her serum hepatic profile returned to normal and she reported no more episodes of fever. Repeated titres of cytomegalovirus serology showed seroconversion.
Year-to-year variability in haemoglobin mass response to two altitude training camps
Authors: McLean Blake D , Buttifant David , Gore Christopher J , White Kevin , Kemp Justin
Published: November 2013

Aim

To quantify the year-to-year variability of altitude-induced changes in haemoglobin mass (Hbmass) in elite team-sport athletes.

Methods

12 Australian-Footballers completed a 19-day (ALT1) and 18-day (ALT2) moderate altitude (∼2100 m), training camp separated by 12 months. An additional 20 participants completed only one of the two training camps (ALT1 additional n=9, ALT2 additional n=11). Total Hbmasswas assessed using carbon monoxide rebreathing before (PRE), after (POST1) and 4 weeks after each camp. The typical error of Hbmassfor the pooled data of all 32 participants was 2.6%. A contemporary statistics analysis was used with the smallest worthwhile change set to 2% for Hbmass.

Results

POST1Hbmasswasvery likelyincreased in ALT1 (3.6±1.6%, n=19; mean±∼90 CL) as well as ALT2 (4.4±1.3%, n=23) with an individual responsiveness of 1.3% and 2.2%, respectively. There was a small correlation between ALT1 and ALT2 (R=0.21, p=0.59) for a change in Hbmass, but a moderately inverse relationship between the change in Hbmassand initial relative Hbmass(g/kg (R=−0.51, p=0.04)).

Conclusions

Two preseason moderate altitude camps 1 year apart yielded a similar (4%) mean increase in Hbmassof elite footballers, with an individual responsiveness of approximately half the group mean effect, indicating that most players gained benefit. Nevertheless, the same individuals generally did not change their Hbmassconsistently from year to year. Thus, a ‘responder’ or ‘non-responder’ to altitude for Hbmassdoes not appear to be a fixed trait.
Gondwanan Eoarchean–Neoproterozoic ancient crustal material in Iran and Turkey: zircon U–Pb–Hf isotopic evidence
Authors: Nutman Allen P. , Mohajjel Mohammad , Bennett Vickie C. , Fergusson Chris L.
Published: November 2013

The Sanandaj–Sirjan Zone is a basement culmination northeast of the Neo-Tethys suture in Iran. In this zone near Azna, granite has a magmatic zircon U–Pb age of 568 ± 11 Ma, with 900–800, ca. 2400, and ca. 3600 Ma inherited cores. The ca. 3600 Ma inherited zircon is the oldest crustal component yet detected in Iran. Near Chadegan, orthogneiss has a magmatic zircon U–Pb age of 637 ± 15 Ma, and carries ca. 1000 and 2000 Ma inherited zircons. Inherited 900–1000 Ma zircons have juvenile initial εHfvalues of ca. +8 to +9, whereas the younger 630 and 568 Ma magmatic zircons show lower initial εHfvalues; however, the 3600 Ma core has initial εHf= 0.0. A Neoproterozoic rim on the inherited 3600 Ma core has the most extreme initial εHfvalue of −18. The Hf isotopic data indicates generation of the magmatic protoliths from a mixture of juvenile Neoproterozoic and Archean sources. Previous studies showed that in Turkey the Central Anatolian Crystalline Complex is underlain by Neo-Eoarchean rocks, the Menderes Massif contains Neoproterozoic granitoids, and that central Iran’s basement and the northern Sanandaj–Sirjan Zone contain Neoproterozoic granitic rocks. This basement terrane is from Gondwana, and was transferred across Paleo-Tethys to dock against Eurasia’s southern margin. Occurrence in Iran and Turkey of Eoarchean crust raises the possibility of sinistral migration of this terrane in the closure of Tethys because the nearest known early Archean crust occurs in northeast India.
Prediction of particle deposition velocity onto an extreme ultraviolet lithography mask in parallel airflow considering electrophoresis
Authors: Kang Soojin , Yook Se-Jin , Lee Kwan-Soo
Published: November 2013

One of the major issues with Extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUVL) is mask defects, which can occur by particle contamination. Gaussian Diffusion Sphere Model (GDSM) was developed to predict particle deposition velocity considering electrophoresis in addition to Brownian diffusion and gravitational settling of particles. For the validation of GDSM, the particle deposition velocities predicted using GDSM were compared with the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation data. The improved GDSM predicted the particle deposition velocity correctly and had fast calculation time. Using the improved GDSM, in an electric field ranging from 0 V/cm to 1000 V/cm, the effects of both attractive electrophoresis and repulsive electrophoresis were evaluated. For the case considering electrophoresis, not only diffusion but also electrophoresis was dominant for the deposition velocity for submicron particles. Repulsive electrophoresis caused the deposition velocity to decrease. However, when the electric field strength was less than 100 V/cm, deposition was not small enough to be ignored. The deposition velocity was analyzed according to free-stream velocity. The effect of free-stream velocity was noticeable under repulsive electrophoresis, whereas it was suppressed under attractive electrophoresis.
INTERACTING GENERALIZED DARK ENERGY AND RECONSTRUCTION OF SCALAR FIELD MODELS
Authors: SHARIF M. , JAWAD ABDUL
Published: November 2013

In this paper, we consider the interacting generalized dark energy with cold dark matter and analyze the behavior of evolution parameter via dark energy and interacting parameters. It is found that the evolution parameter crosses the phantom divide line in most of the cases of integration constants. We also establish the correspondence of scalar field models (quintessence, k-essence and dilaton) with this dark energy model in which scalar fields show the increasing behavior. The scalar potential corresponds to attractor solutions in quintessence case.
STUDY ON ABNORMAL PHENOMENON ABOUT ENHANCED ELECTRICAL CONDUCTIVITY OF Bi1-xBaxFeO3 CERAMICS
Authors: WANG H. J. , WANG S. Y. , LIU W. F. , XI X. J. , GUO FENG , WANG XU , LI D. J.
Published: November 2013

In order to investigate the effects of Ba doping BiFeO 3 on multiferroic properties, Bi 1-x Ba x FeO 3(0≤x≤1)( Ba x BFO ) ceramics were fabricated via rapid solid phase sintering method, and material's structures and electrical properties were investigated. The phase transitions from rhombohedral to pseudo-cubic (x = 10%) and then to tetragonal (x = 40%) were confirmed by X-ray diffraction investigation. Although the electrical conductivity of Ba x BFO (x = 10%, 20% and 30%) ceramics was low, which is a similar trend to previous reports, an abnormal enhancement of electrical conductance was observed in Ba x BFO (x = 1%, 3% and 5%) ceramics. Such as, the electrical conductivity of Ba 0.03 BFO is calculated to be ~106 Ω⋅ cm that is five orders of magnitude higher than that of the BiFeO 3. This has been discussed and ascribed to more percent of oxygen vacancies and Fe 2+ ions in Ba x BFO ceramics, as confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy investigation.
Synthesizing Global Association Rules from Different Data Sources Based on Desired Interestingness Metrics
Authors: Ramkumar Thirunavukarasu , Srinivasan Rengaramanujam , Hariharan Shanmugasundaram
Published: November 2013

Since business houses are generally global, the required data for their corporate decisions are spread over multiple branches at different regions. In such circumstances, local pattern analysis-based global pattern discovery has become an efficient strategy for mining their multiple data sources. The traditional support-confidence framework alone is not enough for assessing the interestingness of synthesized global association rules. In this context, numerous interestingness measures have been developed in the past to meet various situations. Depending on the requirement, local branches and the central head may choose desired interestingness metric for evaluating local frequent-itemsets and global association rules, respectively. In this paper, we present a generalized synthesis procedure for synthesizing global association rules, based on any interestingness metric, from the mined local patterns forwarded by multiple data sources. We have also shown that the synthesized metric values are quite close to the targeted mono-mining results. Examples and experimental studies establish the validity of our proposal.
Ranking Alternatives Based on Intuitionistic Preference Relation
Authors: Xu Zeshui
Published: November 2013

In fuzzy decision-making environments, intuitionistic preference relation is highly useful in depicting uncertainty and vagueness of preference information provided by the decision maker. In the process of decision making with intuitionistic preference relation, the most crucial issue is how to derive the ranking of alternatives from intuitionistic preference relation. In this article, we investigate the ranking methods of alternatives on the basis of intuitionistic preference relation from various angles, which are based on the intuitionistic fuzzy ordered weighted averaging operator, the intuitionistic fuzzy ordered weighted geometric operator, the uncertain averaging operator, the uncertain geometric operator, the uncertain ordered weighted averaging operator, and the uncertain ordered weighted geometric operator, respectively, and study their desirable properties. Moreover, we give a numerical analysis of the developed ranking methods by a practical example, and finally discuss further research directions.
NONDESTRUCTIVE ENTANGLEMENT ANALYSIS AND GENERATION WITH ATOMS IN LOW-Q CAVITIES ASSISTED BY COHERENT LIGHT
Authors: JIN ZHAO , JI YAN-QIANG , SU SHI-LEI , SI BIN , WANG HONG-FU , ZHANG SHOU , ZHU AI-DONG
Published: November 2013

We propose a scheme to implement a nondestructive Greenberger–Horne–Zeilinger (GHZ) state analyzer with atoms in low-Q cavities by taking the coherent light as quantum channel. It can also be applied to generate multi-atom entanglement state with high fidelity and entanglement degree. The analysis for the effect of atomic spontaneous emission on the fidelity and homodyne detection (HD) shows that the present scheme is not only robust in the condition of a bad cavity, but also feasible with the current technology due to the relaxed experimental condition.
QUANTUM CORRELATIONS DYNAMICS OF QUASI-BELL CAT STATES
Authors: DAOUD M. , AHL LAAMARA R. , ESSABER R.
Published: November 2013

A model of dynamics of quantum correlations of two modes quasi-Bell cat states, based on Glauber coherent states, is considered. The analytic expressions of pairwise entanglement of formation, quantum discord and its geometrized variant are explicitly derived. We analyze the distribution of quantum correlations between the two modes and the environment. We show that, in contrast with squared concurrence, entanglement of formation, quantum discord and geometric quantum discord do not follow the property of monogamy except in some particular situations that we discuss.
Unexpected but convenient synthesis of soluble meso-tetrakis(3,4-benzoquinone)-substituted porphyrins
Authors: Hill Jonathan P. , Van Rossom Wim , Ishihara Shinsuke , Subbaiyan Navaneetha , D'Souza Francis , Xie Yongshu , Sanchez-Ballester Noelia M. , Ariga Katsuhiko
Published: November 2013

A new route to 3,4-benzoquinone-substituted porphyrins is reported. In attempted nitration reactions on the copper(II) or nickel(II) complexes of 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)porphyrin using lithium nitrate in acetic anhydride-acetic acid/chloroform no nitration products could be detected with the main products being the corresponding complexes of 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(3,4-dioxo-5-t-butylcyclohexa-1,5-dienyl)porphyrin. These o-quinone-substituted porphyrins are available in reasonable yield (> 50%), their synthesis is simple and they are of good solubility. The electrochemical and spectroelectrochemical properties of representative o-quinone-substituted Cu ( II ) and Ni ( II ) porphyrin derivatives are also reported.
Synthesis, characterization, photophysical and DNA photocleavage properties of amphiphilic porphyrins
Authors: Zhang Jie , Teng Mingyu , Li Dan
Published: November 2013

A series of amphiphilic porphyrins appended with pyridinium cation and/or polyethylene glycol have been synthesized and fully characterized by 1 H NMR, IR and MALDI-TOF-MS. Their photophysical properties were determined and the singlet oxygen (1 O 2) quantum yields of these compounds are in the range of 0.30–0.61 in CHCl 3 and 0.048–0.18 in Tris buffer. The measured two-photon absorption (TPA) cross-sections σ(2) of these porphyrin derivatives are between 110 and 240 GM. These amphiphilic porphyrins show some photocleavage activities (10%–21%) towards the anionic DNA observed at 100 μM.
Decoherence-Free Subspaces for a Quantum Register Interacting with a Spin Environment
Authors: Należyty Paweł , Chruściński Dariusz
Published: November 2013

We study a model of a quantum spin register interacting with an environment of spin particles in quantum-measurement limit. In the limit of collective decoherence we obtain the form of state vectors that constitute high-dimensional decoherence-free subspaces (DFS). In a more general setting we present sufficient and necessary conditions for the existence of low-dimensional DFSs that can be used to construct subspaces of higher dimension.
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE EULERIAN AND THE ARBITRARY LAGRANGIAN–EULERIAN DESCRIPTIONS IN FINITE ELEMENT SIMULATION OF EXTRUSION PROCESSES
Authors: ASGARI ALIASGHAR , NAYEBI ALI
Published: November 2013

In this paper, backward and forward–backward-radial extrusion processes of aluminum have been simulated using finite element method. Due to the extreme deformation of the workpiece and the restrictions of the Lagrangian approach to simulate such problems, the arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) and the Eulerian descriptions have been implemented in backward and forward–backward-radial extrusion processes, respectively. Operator-split method is used to solve the coupled governing equations of the Eulerian and the ALE formulations. To validate the finite element simulations, the results have been compared with experimental data in terms of extrusion load and geometry of final products. A good agreement has been seen between the results demonstrating the capability of the Eulerian and the ALE methods on finite element simulation of extrusion processes.
Synthetic Biology and Microdevices
Authors: Venken Lyn , Marchal Kathleen , Vanderleyden Jos
Published: November 2013

Recent developments demonstrate that the combination of microbiology with micro- and nanoelectronics is a successful approach to develop new miniaturized sensing devices and other technologies. In the last decade, there has been a shift from the optimization of the abiotic components, for example, the chip, to the improvement of the processing capabilities of cells through genetic engineering. The synthetic biology approach will not only give rise to systems with new functionalities, but will also improve the robustness and speed of their response towards applied signals. To this end, the development of new genetic circuits has to be guided by computational design methods that enable to tune and optimize the circuit response. As the successful design of genetic circuits is highly dependent on the quality and reliability of its composing elements, intense characterization of standard biological parts will be crucial for an efficient rational design process in the development of new genetic circuits. Microengineered devices can thereby offer a new analytical approach for the study of complex biological parts and systems. By summarizing the recent techniques in creating new synthetic circuits and in integrating biology with microdevices, this review aims at emphasizing the power of combining synthetic biology with microfluidics and microelectronics.