bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water Quality and Plankton Communities in Hybrid Catfish (♀ Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus × ♂ Blue Catfish, Ictalurus furcatus) Ponds After Partial Fish Harvest
Authors: Tucker Craig S. , Mischke Charles C. , Brown Travis W. , Torrans Eugene L.
Published: August 2016

Twelve 0.4‐ha ponds were stocked with 10,000 hybrid catfish fingerlings in March 2015. Six ponds were partially harvested in August to remove fish larger than ∼0.57 kg. All remaining fish were removed in October and November. Partial harvest of faster‐growing fish removed ∼26% of the fish initially stocked; feeding rate (and therefore external nutrient loading) was reduced by about the same amount. However, reduced nutrient loading after partial fish harvest had no meaningful effects on water quality, phytoplankton biomass, phytoplankton and zooplankton community structure, or supplemental aeration. Lack of ecosystem change was caused by persistent internal recycling of nutrients added to the system before partial harvest and continued high (albeit reduced) external nutrient loading after partial harvest. Decisions to employ partial fish harvest to manage single‐cropped hybrid catfish ponds should be based on economic considerations and risk reduction rather than the expectation that fish biomass reduction will improve water quality.
Pelvic alignment in standing, and its relationship with trunk control and motor recovery of lower limb after stroke
Authors: Karthikbabu Suruliraj , Chakrapani Mahabala , Ganesan Sailakshmi , Ellajosyla Ratnavalli
Published: August 2016

Background

The pelvis is not stable after stroke, and poor trunk recovery might be the foremost contributor to altered pelvic alignment in sitting, standing and during walking.

Aim

To analyze the relationship between pelvic alignment in standing and trunk control after stroke, and also test how these correlations are related to Brunnstrom's lower limb motor recovery.

Methods

In the present cross‐sectional study, 116 ambulant patients after stroke were assessed for their pelvic tilt angles in standing and trunk control using a palpation meter (PALM device) and the Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS), respectively. The pelvic tilt values were correlated to TIS scores by the Pearson's correlation coefficient.

Results

The mean age, post‐stroke duration, and Brunnstrom's lower limb motor recovery of study participants were 55 (13) years, 14.2 (11.3) months and 3.75 (0.79), respectively. The present study reported more lateral pelvic tilt of 2.47° (1.78°) towards the most affected side and an anterior pelvic tilt of 4.4° (1.8°) bilaterally. The mean score of TIS was 10.4 (3). Pelvic tilt angles had a moderately inverse correlation with the total TIS score and coordination subscale of TIS (r‐value from –0.44 to –0.54), but a low inverse relationship to the dynamic sitting balance subscale of TIS (–0.36 to –0.45). Also, the pelvic tilt had a high negative correlation with trunk control (r‐value from –0.68 to –0.84) in lower limb motor recovery stage 5.

Conclusion

Pelvic alignment when standing is not normal after stroke, and this is influenced by poor trunk control and impairment of the lower extremities. Assessment of the pelvis provides further insight into planning the appropriate rehabilitation strategies in stroke.
What is the role of radiological testing of lower esophageal sphincter function?
Authors: Scharitzer Martina , Pokieser Peter
Published: August 2016

Radiological fluoroscopic evaluation remains the primary imaging modality of choice to evaluate patients with swallowing disorders, despite the increasing availability and technical advantages of nonradiological techniques and the current radiological focus on cross‐sectional imaging studies, such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. The radiological swallowing evaluation should be tailored to assess the entire upper gastrointestinal tract, including the lower esophageal sphincter. Fluoroscopy enables the simultaneous assessment of esophageal motility disorders, as well as structural pathologies, including strictures, webs, rings, diverticula, and tumors. Mono‐ and double‐contrast esophagrams and solid bolus tests together allow assessment of lower esophageal sphincter function and complement other methods, such as endoscopy, manometry, or impedance planimetry. Here we review the role of radiological studies for correct assessment of structural and functional pathologies at the level of the lower esophageal sphincter.
Esophageal hypersensitivity in noncardiac chest pain
Authors: Min Yang Won , Rhee Poong‐Lyul
Published: August 2016

Noncardiac chest pain (NCCP) is an often‐encountered clinical problem. Although many patients suffer from persistent or recurrent chest pain, treatment remains a challenge owing to its various possible etiologies. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most common cause of NCCP. In GERD‐related NCCP, proton pump inhibitor treatment appears to be effective. However, the pathophysiology remains to be fully elucidated in NCCP patients without GERD. Treatment for non‐GERD‐related NCCP has been aimed at esophageal motility disorders and visceral hypersensitivity. As there is growing evidence that esophageal visceral hypersensitivity plays a role in NCCP, pain modulators have become the mainstay of therapy in patients with non‐GERD‐related NCCP. However, there is an unmet need for the treatment of esophageal hypersensitivity in NCCP due to modest evidence for the benefit of pain modulators, including antidepressants, in non‐GERD‐related NCCP. Recent studies have demonstrated that esophageal mast cell infiltration and impaired mucosal integrity are related to visceral hypersensitivity in patients with NCCP. Thus, esophageal mast cell stabilization and restoration of esophageal mucosal integrity could be considered potential therapeutic targets in selected NCCP patients with hypersensitivity. However, further observations are necessary to shed light on esophageal hypersensitivity in NCCP.
Faith, Belief and Fictionalism
Authors: Malcolm Finlay , Scott Michael
Published: August 2016

Is propositional religious faith constituted by belief? Recent debate has focussed on whether faith may be constituted by a positive non‐doxastic cognitive state, which can stand in place of belief. This article sets out and defends the doxastic theory. We consider and reject three arguments commonly used in favour of non‐doxastic theories of faith: (1) the argument from religious doubt; (2) the use of ‘faith’ in linguistic utterances; and (3) the possibility of pragmatic faith. We argue that belief is required to maintain a distinction between genuine faith, pretend faith, and fictionalist faith.
Towards the development of a sustainable soya bean‐based feedstock for aquaculture
Authors: Park Hyunwoo , Weier Steven , Razvi Fareha , Peña Pamela A. , Sims Neil A. , Lowell Jennica , Hungate Cory , Kissinger Karma , Key Gavin , Fraser Paul , Napier Johnathan A. , Cahoon Edgar B. , Clemente Tom E.
Published: August 2016

Soya bean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) is sought after for both its oil and protein components. Genetic approaches to add value to either component are ongoing efforts in soya bean breeding and molecular biology programmes. The former is the primary vegetable oil consumed in the world. Hence, its primary usage is in direct human consumption. As a means to increase its utility in feed applications, thereby expanding the market of soya bean coproducts, we investigated the simultaneous displacement of marine ingredients in aquafeeds with soya bean‐based protein and a high Omega‐3 fatty acid soya bean oil, enriched with alpha‐linolenic and stearidonic acids, in both steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and Kampachi (Seriola rivoliana). Communicated herein are aquafeed formulations with major reduction in marine ingredients that translates to more total Omega‐3 fatty acids in harvested flesh. Building off of these findings, subsequent efforts were directed towards a genetic strategy that would translate to a prototype design of an optimal identity‐preserved soya bean‐based feedstock for aquaculture, whereby a multigene stack approach for the targeted synthesis of two value‐added output traits, eicosapentaenoic acid and the ketocarotenoid, astaxanthin, were introduced into the crop. To this end, the systematic introduction of seven transgenic cassettes into soya bean, and the molecular and phenotypic evaluation of the derived novel events are described.
Anuria since birth: does it impact outcome of kidney transplant in infants?
Authors: Vyas Shefali , Roberti Isabel
Published: August 2016

Kidney transplantation (txp) in infants has recently made much progress but provides a unique challenge in infants anuric since birth. Little data exists on outcome of renal txp recipients with anuria since birth. Retrospective chart review was done for outcome of 27 children with wt ≤15 kg and they were divided into two groups: Group A (N=21) with urine output and Group B (N=6) anuric since birth had their urological complications and long‐term outcome compared. Median age at the time of txp 18 vs 23 months, mean wt 10.8 vs 11.8 kg, and mean ht 77 cm in both, mean follow‐up post‐txp: 9.4 vs 5.6 years, and neurological problems were noted in 48% and 33% in Group A and Group B. There was no graft thrombosis or post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disease and only two rejections. Anuric Group B were older, had more post‐txp urological surgeries (66% vs 19%) and UTIs (66% vs 38%) compared to Group A. The overall graft survival at 1, 5, and 10 years was 96%, 86%, and 70%; patient survival at 1, 5, and 10 years was 96%, 85%, and 85%. Long‐term graft outcomes in small children, anuric prior to txp, were excellent despite higher rates for UTIs and urological complications.
Influence of different anaesthetic protocols over the sperm quality on the fresh, chilled (4°C) and frozen‐thawed epididymal sperm samples in domestic dogs
Authors: Batista M , Vilar J , Rosario I , Terradas E
Published: August 2016

Contents

This study assessed the influence of three different anaesthetic protocols on semen quality obtained from the epididymis. Sixty male dogs undergoing to routine sterilization were assigned to three anaesthetic protocols: thiopental group (TG,n = 20), propofol group (PG,n = 20) and ketamine–dexmedetomidine group (KDG,n = 20). Immediately after orchidectomy, the cauda epididymides and vas deferent ducts were isolated and then a retrograde flushing was performed to collect spermatozoa. In experiment 1, after the initial evaluation of the semen (sperm concentration, sperm motility and the percentages of live spermatozoa, abnormal spermatozoa and acrosome membrane integrity), semen samples were diluted in Tris‐glucose‐egg yolk extender and chilled for 48 hr, and the sperm motility was assessed at 6, 24 and 48 hr. In experiment 2, semen samples were diluted in Tris‐glucose‐egg yolk extender and chilled for 24 hr, and then samples were frozen in two extenders with different glycerol concentrations, to reach a final concentration of 50–100 × 106spermatozoa ml−1, 20% egg yolk, 0.5% Equex and 4% and 5% glycerol, respectively. Mean values of total sperm concentration, sperm viability and the percentages of intact acrosome and abnormal spermatozoa were not significantly different between experimental groups, and therefore, the anaesthetic protocols assessed did not affect sperm parameters mentioned above. However, our study confirmed a detrimental effect of the use of thiopental (TG) over the total sperm motility (p < 0.05) and progressive sperm motility (p < 0.05) of the fresh and chilled epididymal sperm samples. The anaesthetic protocols including the application of propofol or ketamine–dexmedetomidine can be used to recover sperm in domestic canids without significant changes in sperm quality compared when semen is collected routinely and these techniques could be applicable to endangered wild canids.
Enteric fever in India: current scenario and future directions
Authors: Divyashree S. , Nabarro L. E. B. , Veeraraghavan B. , Rupali P.
Published: August 2016

Enteric fever is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in tropical areas worldwide. The Indian subcontinent bears the brunt of the disease, both in terms of absolute case numbers and drug‐resistant strains. Recent phylogenetic studies suggest that the multidrug‐resistant clade H58 originated in India and subsequently expanded through Asia and Africa. In Africa, it caused unrecognised outbreaks in areas previously considered free of the disease. In this study, we discuss the current status of enteric fever in India, the factors preventing its control and its future directions in this rapidly developing nation.
Risk of self‐reported symptoms or diagnosis of active tuberculosis in relationship to low body mass index, diabetes and their co‐occurrence
Authors: Prince L. , Andrews J. R. , Basu S. , Goldhaber‐Fiebert J. D.
Published: August 2016

Objective

Globally, tuberculosis prevalence has declined, but its risk factors have varied across place and time – low body mass index (BMI) has persisted while diabetes has increased. Using India's National Family Health Survey (NFHS), wave 3 and World Health Survey (WHS) data, we examined their relationships to support projection of future trends and targeted control efforts.

Methods

Multivariate logistic regressions at the individual level with and without diabetes/BMI interactions assessed the relationship between tuberculosis, diabetes and low BMI and the importance of risk factor co‐occurrence. Population‐level analyses examined how tuberculosis incidence and prevalence varied with diabetes/low BMI co‐occurrence.

Results

In NFHS, diabetic individuals had higher predicted tuberculosis risks (diabetic vs. non‐diabetic: 2.50% vs. 0.63% at low BMI; 0.81% vs. 0.20% at normal BMI; 0.37% vs. 0.09% at high BMI), which were not significantly different when modelled independently or allowing for risk modification with diabetes/low BMI co‐occurrence. WHS findings were generally consistent. Population‐level analysis found that diabetes/low BMI co‐occurrence may be associated with elevated tuberculosis risk, although its predicted effect on tuberculosis incidence/prevalence was generally ≤0.2 percentage points and not robustly statistically significant.

Conclusions

Concerns about the additional elevation of tuberculosis risk from diabetes/low BMI co‐occurrence and hence the need to coordinate tuberculosis control efforts around the nexus of co‐occurring diabetes and low BMI may be premature. However, study findings robustly support the importance of individually targeting low BMI and diabetes as part of ongoing tuberculosis control efforts.
Die Profile Optimization of Rectangular Cross Section Extrusion in Plane Strain Condition Using Upper Bound Analysis Method and Simulated Annealing Algorithm
Authors: Farzad Hamed , Ebrahimi Ramin
Published: August 2016

Extrusion die profile has a significant role on material flow characteristics, product microstructure, die life, and required load. Nowadays, economic requirements and effort to improve and homogenize metallurgical product properties have compelled the researchers to modify the conventional constant angle extrusion dies by employing streamlined die profiles. In the present research work, an optimum plane strain extrusion profile has been presented through implementation of upper bound analysis and Bezier curve in a simulated annealing (SA) algorithm to minimize the process force and its redundant work. The effect of material properties, friction conditions, reduction of area, and cross-sectional ratio on the optimum die profile is considered. The results of finite-element simulation proved that utilizing the optimum curved die instead of the constant angle die is superior regarding the decrease of the maximum required force, 10.5%, and the product inhomogeneity factor (IF), 50%. In addition, based on stress analysis of die/work piece interfaces, it is expected that the die life of optimal curved dies be longer than that of the optimum constant angle dies. Also, it has been demonstrated that the material work hardening characteristics does not have remarkable effect on the optimum curved die profile.
A Prescribed-Wake Vortex Lattice Method for Preliminary Design of Co-Axial, Dual-Rotor Wind Turbines
Authors: Rosenberg Aaron , Sharma Anupam
Published: August 2016

This paper extends the prescribed-wake vortex lattice method (VLM) to perform aerodynamic analysis of dual-rotor wind turbines (DRWTs). A DRWT turbine consists of a large, primary rotor placed co-axially behind a smaller, secondary rotor. The additional vortex system introduced by the secondary rotor of a DRWT is modeled while taking into account the singularities that can occur when the trailing vortices from the secondary (upstream) rotor interact with the bound vortices of the main (downstream) rotor. Pseudo-steady assumption is invoked, and averaging over multiple relative rotor positions is performed to account for the primary and secondary rotors operating at different rotational velocities. The VLM solver is first validated against experiments and blade element momentum theory results for a conventional, single-rotor turbine. The solver is then verified for two DRWT designs against results from two computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods: (1) Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes CFD with an actuator disk representation of the turbine rotors and (2) large-eddy simulations with an actuator line model. Radial distributions of sectional torque force and angle of attack show reasonable agreement between the three methods. Results of parametric sweeps performed using VLM agree qualitatively with the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) CFD results demonstrating that the proposed VLM can be used to guide preliminary design of DRWTs.
On the Radiative Heat Transfer in a Viscoelastic Boundary Layer Flow Over a Stretching Sheet
Authors: Phani Rajanish Chava Y P D , Nageswara Rao B.
Published: August 2016

Many researchers have studied the radiative heat transfer in a viscoelastic boundary layer flow over a stretching sheet after simplifying the complex nature of the radiative heat flux by expanding the fourth power of temperature (T4) in Taylor series about free-stream temperature (T∞) and neglecting the higher-order terms. Similarity solutions obtained by them are found to be valid only in the asymptotic region. This article suggests a modification in the linearization of T4 by introducing wall temperature (Tw) as well as freestream temperature (T∞) to capture the realistic nature of the temperature distribution in the boundary layer flows from locally nonsimilar solutions.
Investigation on Flow-Induced Vibrations of a Steam Turbine Inlet Valve Considering Fluid–Structure Interaction Effects
Authors: Domnick Clemens Bernhard , Benra Friedrich-Karl , Brillert Dieter , Dohmen Hans Josef , Musch Christian
Published: August 2016

The power output of steam turbines is controlled by steam turbine inlet valves. These valves have a large flow capacity and dissipate a huge amount of energy in throttled operation. The dissipation process generates strong pressure fluctuations resulting in high dynamic forces causing valve vibrations. A brief survey of the literature dealing with valve vibrations reveals that the vibrational problems and damages mostly occur in throttled operation when high speed jets, shocks, and shear layers are present. As previous investigations reveal that a feedback mechanism between the dynamic flow field and the vibrating valve plug exists, the vibrations are investigated with two-way coupled simulations. The fluid dynamics are solved with a scale-adaptive approach to resolve the pressure fluctuations generated by the turbulent flow. The finite element model (FEM) solving the structural dynamics considers both frictional effects at the valve packing and contact effects caused by the plug impacting on the valve bushing. As different flow topologies causing diverse dynamic loads exist, the fluid flow and the structural dynamics are simulated at different operating points. The simulations show that differences to the one-way-coupled approach exist leading to a change of the vibrational behavior. The physics behind the feedback mechanisms causing this change are analyzed and conclusions regarding the accuracy of the one-way-coupled approach are drawn.
Temperature Measurements at the Outlet of a Lean Burn Single-Sector Combustor by Laser Optical Methods
Authors: Doll Ulrich , Stockhausen Guido , Heinze Johannes , Meier Ulrich , Hassa Christoph , Bagchi Imon
Published: August 2016

High overall pressure ratio (OPR) engine cycles for reduced NOx emissions will generate new aggravated requirements and boundary conditions by implementing low emission combustion technologies into advanced engine architectures. Lean burn combustion systems will have a significant impact on the temperature and velocity traverse at the combustor exit. With the transition to high-pressure engines, it is essential to fully understand and determine the high energetic interface between combustor and turbine to avoid excessive cooling. Spatially resolved temperatures were measured at different operating conditions using planar laser-induced fluorescence of OH (OH-PLIF) and filtered Rayleigh scattering (FRS), the latter being used in a combustor environment for the first time. Apart from a conventional signal detection arrangement, FRS was also applied with an endoscope for signal collection, to assess its feasibility for future application in a full annular combustor with restricted optical access. Both techniques are complementary in several respects, which justified their combined application. OH-PLIF allows instantaneous measurements and therefore enables local temperature statistics, but is limited to relatively high temperatures. On the other hand, FRS can also be applied at low temperatures, which makes it particularly attractive for measurements in cooling layers. However, FRS requires long sampling times and therefore can only provide temporal averages. When applied in combination, the accuracy of both techniques could be improved by each method helping to overcome the other's shortcomings.
Effect of Aft Rotor on the Inter-Rotor Flow of an Open Rotor Propulsion System
Authors: Slaboch Paul E. , Stephens David B. , Van Zante Dale E. , Wernet Mark P.
Published: August 2016

The effects of the aft rotor on the inter-rotor flow field of an open rotor propulsion rig (ORPR) were examined. A particle image velocimetry (PIV) dataset that was acquired phase locked to the front rotor position has been phase averaged based on the relative phase angle between the forward and aft rotors. The aft rotor phase was determined by feature tracking in raw PIV images through an image-processing algorithm. The effects of the aft rotor potential field on the inter-rotor flow were analyzed and shown to be in reasonably good agreement with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. The aft rotor position was shown to have a significant upstream effect, with implications for front rotor interaction noise. It was found that the aft rotor had no substantial effect on the position of the forward rotor tip vortex but did have a small effect on the circulation strength of the vortex when the rotors were highly loaded.
A Simple Parameter Estimation Approach to Modeling of Photovoltaic Modules Based on Datasheet Values
Authors: Feng Xiangsai , Qing Xiangyun , Chung C. Y. , Qiao Hongqiao , Wang Xunchun , Zhao Xinkan
Published: August 2016

This work presents a simple parameter estimation approach for a photovoltaic (PV) module using a single-diode five-parameter electrical model. The proposed approach only uses the information from manufacturer datasheet without requiring a specific experimental procedure or a curve extractor. The number of parameters to be determined is first reduced from five to two by gaining insight into electrical equations of the model at the standard test conditions (STCs). A nonlinear least square (NLS) objective function is then constructed and minimized by a complete scan for all possible values of the two parameters within some specific ranges based on their physical meaning. Consequently, the single-diode five-parameter electrical model at the STC is determined based on two optimal parameter values. Besides, a PV full characteristic model with consideration of both the irradiance and temperature dependencies is also constructed by using the data at the nominal operating cell temperature (NOCT) test conditions. The proposed approach is easy to implement and free of the convergence problem. The evaluations on several PV modules show that the proposed approach is capable of extracting accurate estimates of the model parameters.
Tracking Control of Linear Time-Invariant Nonminimum Phase Systems Using Filtered Basis Functions
Authors: Ramani Keval S. , Duan Molong , Okwudire Chinedum E. , Galip Ulsoy A.
Published: August 2016

An approach for minimizing tracking errors in linear time-invariant (LTI) single-input single-output (SISO) discrete-time systems with nonminimum phase (NMP) zeros using filtered basis functions (FBF) is studied. In the FBF method, the control input to the system is expressed as a linear combination of basis functions. The basis functions are forward filtered using the dynamics of the NMP system, and their coefficients are selected to minimize the error in tracking a given desired trajectory. Unlike comparable methods in the literature, the FBF method is shown to be effective in tracking any desired trajectory, irrespective of the location of NMP zeros in the z-plane. The stability of the method and boundedness of the control input and system output are discussed. The control designer is free to choose any suitable set of basis functions that satisfy the criteria discussed in this paper. However, two rudimentary basis functions, one in time domain and the other in frequency domain, are specifically highlighted. The effectiveness of the FBF method is illustrated and analyzed in comparison with the truncated series (TS) approximation method.
Asymptotical Synchronization of Lur'e Systems Using Network Reliable Control
Authors: Rakkiyappan R. , Lakshmanan S. , Lim C. P.
Published: August 2016

This paper presents the synchronization criteria for two identical delayed chaotic Lur'e systems. Here, we employ network reliable feedback control for achieving synchronization between our considered systems. The advantage of the employed controller lies in the fact that it even works in the case of actuator or sensor failures, which may occur in many real-world situations. By introducing an improved Lyapunov–Krasovskii (L–K) functional and by using reciprocally convex technique, sufficient conditions are given in the form of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) to ensure asymptotic stability of resulting synchronization error system. Numerical simulations of neural networks and Chua's circuit system are given to verify the effectiveness and less conservatism of the presented theoretical results.
Large Eddy Simulation of Self-Sustained Cavity Oscillation for Subsonic and Supersonic Flows
Authors: Nair K. M. , Sarkar S.
Published: August 2016

The primary objective is to perform a large eddy simulation (LES) using shear improved Smagorinsky model (SISM) to resolve the large-scale structures, which are primarily responsible for shear layer oscillations and acoustic loads in a cavity. The unsteady, three-dimensional (3D), compressible Navier–Stokes (N–S) equations have been solved following AUSM+-up algorithm in the finite-volume formulation for subsonic and supersonic flows, where the cavity length-to-depth ratio was 3.5 and the Reynolds number based on cavity depth was 42,000. The present LES resolves the formation of shear layer, its rollup resulting in large-scale structures apart from shock–shear layer interactions, and evolution of acoustic waves. It further indicates that hydrodynamic instability, rather than the acoustic waves, is the cause of self-sustained oscillation for subsonic flow, whereas the compressive and acoustic waves dictate the cavity oscillation, and thus the sound pressure level for supersonic flow. The present LES agrees well with the experimental data and is found to be accurate enough in resolving the shear layer growth, compressive wave structures, and radiated acoustic field.
Ice Gouge Depth Determination Via an Efficient Stochastic Dynamics Technique
Authors: Gazis Nikolaos , Kougioumtzoglou Ioannis A. , Patelli Edoardo
Published: August 2016

A simplified model of the motion of a grounding iceberg for determining the gouge depth into the seabed is proposed. Specifically, taking into account uncertainties relating to the soil strength, a nonlinear stochastic differential equation governing the evolution of the gouge length/depth in time is derived. Further, a recently developed Wiener path integral (WPI) based approach for solving approximately the nonlinear stochastic differential equation is employed; thus, circumventing computationally demanding Monte Carlo based simulations and rendering the approach potentially useful for preliminary design applications. The accuracy/reliability of the approach is demonstrated via comparisons with pertinent Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) data.
Localized Lateral Thermal Buckling of Pipelines With a Circular Layout
Authors: Zhu Jianbei , Attard Mario M.
Published: August 2016

A numerical strategy is developed and used to investigate the localized lateral buckling of circular pipelines under thermal loading and friction. The constitutive relations for circular pipelines are derived for thermal stresses and finite strain based on a hyperelastic constitutive model. The prebuckling lateral expansion and localized postbuckling deformation are investigated. A critical included angle for circular profiles is studied. Beyond the critical included angle, increasing the included angle of the pipeline or changing the boundary conditions does not influence the localized buckling behavior. Parametric studies are performed and the results are validated with ansys.
Cost-Optimized FPSO Mooring Design Via Harmony Search
Authors: Ryu Sam , Duggal Arun S. , Heyl Caspar N. , Woo Geem Zong
Published: August 2016

A mooring system optimization program has been developed to minimize the cost of offshore mooring systems. This paper describes an application of the optimization program constructed based on the recently developed harmony search (HS) optimization algorithm to offshore mooring design which requires significant number of design cycles. The objective of the anchor leg system design is to minimize the mooring cost with feasible solutions that satisfy all the design constraints. The HS algorithm is adopted from a jazz improvisation process to find solutions with the optimal cost. This mooring optimization model was integrated with a frequency-domain global motion analysis program to assess both cost and design constraints of the mooring system. As a case study, a single-point mooring system design of floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) in deepwater was considered. It was found that optimized design parameters obtained by the HS model were feasible solutions with the optimized cost. The results show that the HS-based mooring optimization model can be used to find feasible mooring systems of offshore platforms with the optimal cost.
A Dimensionless Quotient for Determining Coupling Strength in Modal Energy Analysis
Authors: Zhang Peng , Fei Qingguo , Wu Shaoqing , Li Yanbin
Published: August 2016

Modal energy analysis (MODENA) is an energy-based method recently proposed to estimate the dynamic response of a coupled structure/acoustic cavity system. The accuracy of MODENA is affected by the coupling strength between structural and acoustic modes. A dimensionless coupling quotient which is equal to the ratio of the gyroscopic coupling coefficient and the critical coefficient at modal frequencies is defined to determine the coupling strength in MODENA. The coupling strength of the system is classified as weak, moderate, or strong, according to the coupling quotient with a proposed criterion. When computing the modal input power in MODENA, the mobility of the uncoupled mode can be used if the modes are weakly coupled, but the mobility of the coupled mode should be adopted to obtain accurate results if many modes are moderately coupled. The effectiveness of the proposed criterion is validated via a numerical example where a plate is coupled with an acoustic cavity. Results show that many low-order structural and acoustic modes are moderately coupled while almost all high-order modes are weakly coupled. Errors of the energy responses appear in a low-frequency band, but accurate results are acquired in a mid- to high-frequency band when the mobility of uncoupled mode is used.
Vibration Analysis of the Free-Falling Microstructure Profiler
Authors: Liu Yuhong , Yang Yanpeng , Wang Yanhui , Lan Shiquan , Wang Shuxin , Zhang Lianhong
Published: August 2016

Free-falling microstructure profiler (FFMP) is the most effective platform for measuring ocean microstructure turbulence. Vibration is the key factor of influencing the accuracy of the measurement of the shear sensor mounted on the leading end of the FFMP. In the present work, vibration behavior of an FFMP called FFMP1000 was studied through fluid–structure interaction (FSI) simulations and field trials. Vibration characteristics and mechanism of the FFMP1000 were also discussed. Results showed that motion of the FFMP was like a compound pendulum oscillation, and was caused by vortex shedding at the trailing end of the FFMP. Empirical formulas used to predict the oscillation of the FFMP were deduced based on the characteristics of motion behavior and confirmed through sea trials. The present achievement provides scientific guidance for designing optimal hydrodynamic hull shape of the FFMP. It is also useful to estimate the low end detection limit of the FFMP and to modify the turbulence kinetic energy dissipation rate during ocean observations.
Characterization of Cavitation Eroded Surfaces at Different Temperatures Using Wavelet Method
Authors: Abouel-Kasem A. , Saleh B. , Emara K. M. , Ahmed S. M.
Published: August 2016

In the present work, the image features of cavitation erosion surfaces at different temperatures are extracted using wavelet decomposition transform. The results obtained indicate that the extract parameters, wavelet energy, and entropy can characterize the cavitation intensity in a similar manner to that of the mass loss and average particle size at different temperatures. Based on the analysis of the eroded surface and particle morphologies for different temperatures, it was found that the predominant failure mode was fatigue.
Viscoelasticity of Tendons Under Transverse Compression
Authors: Paul Buckley C. , Samuel Salisbury S. T. , Zavatsky Amy B.
Published: August 2016

Tendons are highly anisotropic and also viscoelastic. For understanding and modeling their 3D deformation, information is needed on their viscoelastic response under off-axis loading. A study was made, therefore, of creep and recovery of bovine digital extensor tendons when subjected to transverse compressive stress of up to ca. 100 kPa. Preconditioned tendons were compression tested between glass plates at increasing creep loads. The creep response was anomalous: the relative rate of creep reduced with the increasing stress. Over each ca. 100 s creep period, the transverse creep deformation of each tendon obeyed a power law dependence on time, with the power law exponent falling from ca. 0.18 to an asymptote of ca. 0.058 with the increasing stress. A possible explanation is stress-driven dehydration, as suggested previously for the similar anomalous behavior of ligaments. Recovery after removal of each creep load was also anomalous. Relative residual strain reduced with the increasing creep stress, but this is explicable in terms of the reducing relative rate of creep. When allowance was made for some adhesion occurring naturally between tendon and the glass plates, the results for a given load were consistent with creep and recovery being related through the Boltzmann superposition principle (BSP). The tendon tissue acted as a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) in contact with the glass plates: explicable in terms of the low transverse shear modulus of the tendons.
Effect of the In Vitro Boundary Conditions on the Surface Strain Experienced by the Vertebral Body in the Elastic Regime
Authors: Danesi Valentina , Erani Paolo , Brandolini Nicola , Juszczyk Mateusz M. , Cristofolini Luca
Published: August 2016

The vertebral strength and strain can be assessed in vitro by both using isolated vertebrae and sets of three adjacent vertebrae (the central one is loaded through the disks). Our goal was to elucidate if testing single-vertebra-specimens in the elastic regime provides different surface strains to three-vertebrae-segments. Twelve three-vertebrae sets were extracted from thoracolumbar human spines. To measure the principal strains, the central vertebra of each segment was prepared with eight strain-gauges. The sets were tested mechanically, allowing comparison of the surface strains between the two boundary conditions: first when the same vertebra was loaded through the disks (three-vertebrae-segment) and then with the endplates embedded in cement (single-vertebra). They were all subjected to four nondestructive tests (compression, traction, torsion clockwise, and counterclockwise). The magnitude of principal strains differed significantly between the two boundary conditions. For axial loading, the largest principal strains (along vertebral axis) were significantly higher when the same vertebra was tested isolated compared to the three-vertebrae-segment. Conversely, circumferential strains decreased significantly in the single vertebrae compared to the three-vertebrae-segment, with some variations exceeding 100% of the strain magnitude, including changes from tension to compression. For torsion, the differences between boundary conditions were smaller. This study shows that, in the elastic regime, when the vertebra is loaded through a cement pot, the surface strains differ from when it is loaded through the disks. Therefore, when single vertebrae are tested, surface strain should be taken with caution.
SSVEP Recognition by Using Higher Harmonics Based on Music
Authors: Chen Kun , Xu Fei , Liu Quan , Liu Haojie , Zhang Yang , Ma Li , Ai Qingsong
Published: August 2016

Among different brain–computer interfaces (BCIs), the steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP)-based BCI has been widely used because of its higher signal to noise ratio (SNR) and greater information transfer rate (ITR). In this paper, a method based on multiple signal classification (MUSIC) was proposed for multidimensional SSVEP signal processing. Both fundamental and second harmonics of SSVEPs were employed for the final target recognition. The experimental results proved it has the advantage of reducing recognition time. Also, the relation between the duty-cycle of the stimulus signals and the amplitude of the second harmonics of SSVEPs was discussed via experiments. In order to verify the feasibility of proposed methods, a two-layer spelling system was designed. Different subjects including those who have never used BCIs before used the system fluently in an unshielded environment.
Description and Evaluation of a Simplified Model to Simulate the Optical Behavior of an Angle-Resolved Scattered Light Sensor
Authors: Torner François M. , Stelzer Gerhard , Anslinger Lukas , Seewig Jörg
Published: August 2016

Scattered light sensors are optical sensors commonly used in industrial applications. They are particularly well suited to characterizing surface roughness. In contrast to most geometric measuring devices, a scattered light sensor measures reflection angles of surfaces according to the principle of the so-called mirror facet model. Surfaces can be evaluated based on the statistical distribution of the surface angles, meaning the gradients. To better understand how the sensor behaves, it is helpful to create a virtual model. Ray-tracing methods are just as conceivable as purely mathematical methods based on convolution. The mathematical description is especially interesting because it promotes fundamental comprehension of angle-resolved scattered light measurement technology and requires significantly less computation time than ray-tracing algorithms. Simplified and idealized assumptions are accepted. To reduce the effort required to simulate the sensor, an attempt was made to implement an idealized mathematical model using Matlab® to be able to quickly generate information on scattered light distribution without excessive effort. Studies were conducted to determine the extent to which the results of modeling correspond to the transfer characteristics of a virtual Zemax sensor, on the one hand, and with the measurement results of the actual scattered light sensor, on the other hand.
FEAsy: A Sketch-Based Tool for Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Murugappan Sundar , Piya Cecil , Yang Maria C. , Ramani Karthik
Published: August 2016

Freehand sketching is an integral part of early design process. Recent years have seen an increased interest in supporting sketching in computer-based design systems. In this paper, we present finite element analysis made easy (FEAsy), a naturalistic environment for static finite element analysis. This tool allows users to transform, simulate, and analyze their finite element models quickly and easily through freehand sketching. A major challenge here is to beautify freehand sketches, and to this extent, we present a domain-independent, multistroke, multiprimitive method which automatically detects and uses the spatial relationships implied in the sketches for beautification. Further, we have also developed a domain-specific rules-based algorithm for recognizing commonly used symbols in finite element analysis (FEA) and a method for identifying different contexts in finite element modeling through combined interpretation of text and geometry. The results of the user study suggest that our proposed algorithms are efficient and robust. Pilot users found the interface to be effective and easy to use.
Reorganization of hydrogen bond network makes strong polyelectrolyte brushes pH-responsive
Authors: Wu Bo , Wang Xiaowen , Yang Jun , Hua Zan , Tian Kangzhen , Kou Ran , Zhang Jian , Ye Shuji , Luo Yi , Craig Vincent S. J. , Zhang Guangzhao , Liu Guangming
Published: August 2016

The pH response of strong polyelectrolyte brushes originates from the pH-mediated reorganization of hydrogen bond network.
Kinetic control of the coverage of oil droplets by DNA-functionalized colloids
Authors: Joshi Darshana , Bargteil Dylan , Caciagli Alessio , Burelbach Jerome , Xing Zhongyang , Nunes André S. , Pinto Diogo E. P. , Araújo Nuno A. M. , Brujic Jasna , Eiser Erika
Published: August 2016

Controlled adsorption and phase behavior of colloids at liquid interface.
POLRMT regulates the switch between replication primer formation and gene expression of mammalian mtDNA
Authors: Kühl Inge , Miranda Maria , Posse Viktor , Milenkovic Dusanka , Mourier Arnaud , Siira Stefan J. , Bonekamp Nina A. , Neumann Ulla , Filipovska Aleksandra , Polosa Paola Loguercio , Gustafsson Claes M. , Larsson Nils-Göran
Published: August 2016

Mitochondrial transcription for replication primer formation has priority over gene expression at low POLRMT levels.
Epidemiological Investigation of Legionella pneumophila Serogroup 2 to 14 Isolates from Water Samples by Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism and Sequence-Based Typing and Detection of Virulence Traits
Authors: Katsiaflaka Anna , Pournaras Spyros , Kristo Ioulia , Mouchtouri Varvara A. , Kyritsi Maria , Velonakis Emmanuel , Vatopoulos Alkiviadis C. , Hadjichristodoulou Christos
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study is to explore the dispersion, clonality, and virulence of
Legionella pneumophila
serogroups 2 to 14 in the Greek environment. Eighty
L. pneumophila
serogroup 2 to 14 strains isolated from water distribution systems of hotels, hospitals, athletic venues, and ferries in Greece were tested by monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) for serogroup discrimination and molecularly by amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) for genetic diversity. Fifty-six of 80 strains were also typed by the sequence-based typing (SBT) method. Αll strains were further analyzed for detection of two pathogenicity loci:
Legionella
vir
homologue (
lvh
) and repeats in structural toxin (
rtxA
). Thirty-seven strains (46.2%) belonged to serogroup 6, 26 strains (32.5%) to serogroup 3, and 7 (8.8%) to other serogroups (4, 5, 8, and 10). Ten strains (12.5%) were nontypeable (NT) into the known serogroups. Thirty-nine different AFLP types were found among the 80
L. pneumophila
serogroup 2 to 14 strains, and 24 different SBT types were found among the 56 strains tested. Among the 80 strains, the
lvh
locus was present in 75 (93.8%), the
rtxA
locus was found in 76 (95%), and both loci were found in 73 (91.3%) strains. This study showed that there is genetic variability of
L. pneumophila
serogroups 2 to 14 in the Greek environment as well as a high percentage of the pathogenicity loci. Ιntroducing an effective diagnostic test for
L. pneumophila
serogroups 2 to 14 in urine and promoting the examination of respiratory specimens from patients hospitalized for pneumonia in Greek hospitals are essential.

IMPORTANCE
In this study, the dispersion, clonality, and virulence of environmental isolates of
Legionella pneumophila
serogroups 2 to 14 (Lp2–14) in Greece were investigated. Genetic variability of Lp2–14 in the Greek environment was identified together with the presence of the pathogenicity loci in a high percentage of the isolates. Despite the high prevalence of Lp2–14 in the Greek environment, no clinical cases were reported, which may be due to underdiagnosis of the disease. Almost all the legionellosis cases are diagnosed in Greece by using the urine antigen test, which is specific for Lp1. There is an urgent need to improve the clinical diagnosis of legionellosis by introducing an effective diagnostic test for Lp2–14 in urine and by promoting the PCR examination of respiratory specimens from patients with compatible clinical symptoms.