bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tribology and its growing use toward the study of food oral processing and sensory perception
Authors: Shewan Heather M. , Pradal Clementine , Stokes Jason R.
Published: May 2019

Here we provide a comprehensive review of the knowledge base of soft tribology, the study of friction, lubrication, and wear on deformable surfaces, with consideration for its application toward oral tribology and food lubrication. Studies on “soft‐tribology” have emerged to provide knowledge and tools to predict oral behavior and assess the performance of foods and beverages. We have shown that there is a comprehensive set of fundamental literature, mainly based on soft contacts in the Mini‐traction machine with rolling ball on disk configuration, which provides a baseline for interpreting tribological data from complex food systems. Tribology‐sensory relationships do currently exist. However, they are restricted to the specific formulations and tribological configuration utilized, and cannot usually be applied more broadly. With a careful and rigorous formulation/experimental design, we envisage tribological tools to provide insights into the sensory perception of foods in combination with other in vitro technique such as rheology, particle sizing or characterization of surface interactions. This can only occur with the use of well characterized tribopairs and equipment; a careful characterization of simpler model foods before considering complex food products; the incorporation of saliva in tribological studies; the removal of confounding factors from the sensory study and a global approach that considers all regimes of lubrication.
Cost‐effectiveness of sunflower oil fortification with vitamin A in Tanzania by scale
Authors: Walters Dylan , Ndau Edna , Saleh Nadira , Mosha Theobald , Horton Susan
Published: May 2019

In 2011, Tanzania mandated the fortification of edible oil with vitamin A to help address its vitamin A deficiency (VAD) public health problem. By 2015, only 16% of edible oil met the standards for adequate fortification. There is no evidence on the cost‐effectiveness of the fortification of edible oil by small‐ and medium‐scale (SMS) producers in preventing VAD. The MASAVA project initiated the production of sunflower oil fortified with vitamin A by SMS producers in the Manyara and Shinyanga regions of Tanzania. A quasi‐experimental nonequivalent control‐group research trial and an economic evaluation were conducted. The household survey included mother and child pairs from a sample of 568 households before the intervention and 18 months later. From the social perspective, the incremental cost of fortification of sunflower oil could be as low as $0.13, $0.06, and $0.02 per litre for small‐, medium‐, and large‐scale producers, respectively, compared with unfortified sunflower oil. The SMS intervention increased access to fortified oil for some vulnerable groups but did not have a significant effect on the prevention of VAD due to insufficient coverage. Fortification of vegetable oil by large‐scale producers was associated with a significant reduction of VAD in children from Shinyanga. The estimated cost per disability‐adjusted life year averted for fortified sunflower oil was $281 for large‐scale and could be as low as $626 for medium‐scale and $1,507 for small‐scale producers under ideal conditions. According to the World Health Organization thresholds, this intervention is very cost‐effective for large‐ and medium‐scale producers and cost‐effective for small‐scale producers.
Effect of enhanced homestead food production on anaemia among Cambodian women and children: A cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Michaux Kristina D. , Hou Kroeun , Karakochuk Crystal D. , Whitfield Kyly C. , Ly Sokhoing , Verbowski Vashti , Stormer Ame , Porter Keith , Li Kathy H. , Houghton Lisa A. , Lynd Larry D. , Talukder Aminuzzaman , McLean Judy , Green Timothy J.
Published: May 2019

There is inconsistent evidence on the efficacy of agriculture programmes at improving women and children's anaemia and nutritional status. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a nutrition‐sensitive enhanced homestead food production (EHFP) programme on anaemia in women (18–45 years) and children (6–59 months) in rural Cambodia. Secondary outcomes were women's micronutrient status and women and children's anthropometry. In this cluster‐randomized controlled trial, 900 households from 90 villages (clusters) were randomized to either (a) home gardens and behaviour change communication (BCC) on nutrition, hygiene, women's empowerment, and marketing (EHFP); (b) home gardens plus fishponds and BCC (EHFP + F); or (c) control (no intervention). Haemoglobin concentration and anthropometry were measured in women and children at baseline and at 22 months. Venous blood samples were collected in a subset of women(n = 450) at baseline and at 22 months. Generalized linear mixed effect models with repeated measures were used to evaluate the difference across groups and the change from baseline to end of study. Ninety clusters, 552 women, and 754 children completed the trial. Compared with control, we found a statistically significant impact on anaemia prevalence in children (−14.0 percentage points;P = 0.02) and retinol binding protein concentrations in women (difference in difference: 0.34;P = 0.02) randomized to EHFP and EHFP + F groups, respectively. No other statistically significant effects on anaemia, nutritional biomarker concentrations, or anthropometry were observed. Future research is needed to examine longer term impacts of EHFP on anthropometry in women and children and into the nutritional causes of anaemia among children in Cambodia.
Dehulled small millets: The promising nutricereals for improving the nutrition of children
Authors: Durairaj Malathi , Gurumurthy Gurumeenakshi , Nachimuthu Varadharaju , Muniappan Karthikeyan , Balasubramanian Subbulakshmi
Published: May 2019

Good nutrition during a child's early years lays a strong foundation of health for the rest of its life. Yet in India, there is widespread prevalence of undernourishment among children below 5 years of age. Within the Indian context, small millets have great potential as a healthy food to address this challenge by the virtue of their nutritional qualities. However, there are many problems with the current processing technology for small millets, whereas the use of value‐added products was minimal. To address this, an assessment of existing small millet processing machinery was undertaken, and a double chamber centrifugal dehuller was developed, which had higher recovery of dehulled unpolished millets and met requirements at the village and enterprise levels. To demonstrate the health benefits of consuming value‐added small millets, a study of supplementation of multi‐millet health mix on the nutritional status of primary schoolchildren was conducted in Thondamuthur Block of Coimbatore District, India. Multi‐millet health mix was formulated from kodo millet, little millet, foxtail millet, finger millet, and wheat with the inclusion of pulses. It contained 65.45‐g carbohydrate, 11.46‐g protein, 4.94‐g fat, 4.94‐g fibre, 4.07‐mg iron, 112‐mg calcium, 268.52‐mg phosphorus, and 349 calories of energy per 100 g. The study indicated that there was a significant increase in height, weight, and haemoglobin level of the schoolchildren who regularly consumed the formulated multi‐millet health mix. The improved huller and value‐added food product developed can be feasible options for improving nutrition security and livelihoods through increased use of small millets.
Integrated school based nutrition programme improved the knowledge of mother and schoolchildren
Authors: Angeles‐Agdeppa Imelda , Monville‐Oro Emilita , Gonsalves Julian F. , Capanzana Mario V.
Published: May 2019

This study evaluates the effects of nutrition education on improving knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of mothers and the improvement of the nutritional status of their children. A cluster randomized controlled design using multistage sampling was employed. The integrated school‐based nutrition programme included gardening, nutrition education for parents, and supplementary feeding for children (GarNESup). KAP of mothers was assessed using pretested questionnaires administered by teachers. The randomly selected schools were randomly allocated into two groups: Both schools provided lunch to targeted children with one‐dish indigenous vegetable recipe, but School 1 received iron‐fortified rice whereas School 2 was provided ordinary rice. Eighty wasted and/or anaemic children in each school were fed for 120 days. Nutrition education for children's parents was done every school card claim day and during parent–teacher meetings using 10 developed modules. Weight, height, and haemoglobin level of children and KAP of mothers were measured at baseline and endpoint using standard techniques. KAP of mothers who had completed more than six modules had significantly increased from baseline to endpoint: Negative consequence of worm infestation (33.3% to 60.6%, P = 0.035), importance of serving breakfast for children (42.4% to 78.8%, P = 0.004), cooking vegetables (63.6% to 93.9%, P = 0.002), and purchasing fortified foods was recorded (51.5% to 93.9%, P = 0.000). Children in School 1 had significantly higher weight gain (1.33 ± 0.72) and haemoglobin level (0.49 ± 0.99) than children in School 2 (0.84 ± 0.59; 0.12 ± 0.70). Nutrition education resulted to significant increase of mother's KAP and the implementation of the integrated school‐based nutrition model significantly improved children's nutritional status.
Seasonal abundance of the stable fly Stomoxys calcitrans in southwest England
Authors: Parravani A. , Chivers C.‐A. , Bell N. , Long S. , Burden F. , Wall R.
Published: May 2019

The stable fly Stomoxys calcitrans (L.) is a cosmopolitan biting fly of both economic and welfare concern, primarily as a result of its painful bite, which can cause blood loss, discomfort and loss of productivity in livestock. Between June and November in 2016 and May and December in 2017, Alsynite sticky‐traps were deployed at four Donkey Sanctuary sites in southwest England, which experience recurrent seasonal biting fly problems. The aim was to evaluate the seasonal dynamics of the stable fly populations and the risk factors associated with abundance. In total, 19 835 S. calcitrans were trapped during the study period. In both years, abundance increased gradually over summer months, peaking in late August/September. There were no relationships between seasonally detrended abundance and any climatic factors. Fly abundance was significantly different between sites and population size was consistent between years at three of the four sites. The median chronological age, as determined by pteridine analysis of flies caught live when blood‐feeding, was 4.67 days (interquartile range 3.8–6.2 days) in males and 6.79 days (interquartile range 4.8–10.4 days) in females; there was no significant, consistent change in age or age structure over time, suggesting that adult flies emerge continuously over the summer, rather than in discrete age‐related cohorts. The data suggest that flies are more abundant in the vicinity of active animal facilities, although the strong behavioural association between flies and their hosts means that they are less likely to be caught on traps where host availability is high. The implications of these results for fly management are discussed.
How self‐compassion moderates the effect of body surveillance on subjective happiness and depression among women
Authors: Wollast Robin , Riemer Abigail R. , Bernard Philippe , Leys Christophe , Kotsou Ilios , Klein Olivier
Published: May 2019

According to objectification theory (Fredrickson & Roberts, 1997), being treated as an object leads women to engage in self‐objectification, which in turn increases body surveillance and body shame as well as impairs mental health. However, very little is known about what factors could act as buffers against the detrimental consequences of self‐objectification. This paper seeks to understand the role of self‐compassion (the ability to kindly accept oneself or show self‐directed kindness while suffering) in the perception that women have of their own bodies. Results indicate that self‐compassion moderated the effect of body surveillance on depression and happiness separately among women. More specifically, for women low in self‐compassion, body surveillance was negatively associated with happiness, which was explained by increased depression. In sum, our results indicate that self‐compassion protects against the detrimental consequences of body surveillance.
Why inflammation and the activities of the immune system matter for social and personality psychology (and not only for those who study health)
Authors: Gassen Jeffrey , Hill Sarah E.
Published: May 2019

A growing body of research finds that the activities of the immune system—in addition to protecting the body from infection and injury—also influence how we think, feel, and behave. Although research on the relationship between the immune system and psychological and behavioral outcomes has most commonly focused on the experiences of those who are ill or experiencing an acute immune response, we propose that the immune system may also play a key role in influencing such outcomes in those who are healthy. Here, we review theory and research suggesting that inflammation—a key component of the immune response to pathogens and stressors—may play an important modulatory role in shaping emotions, motivation, cognition, and behavior, even among those without symptoms of illness. Moreover, because inflammation occurs in response to a number of everyday social experiences (e.g., loneliness and stress), we propose that it may be an important mediator of many psychological and behavioral outcomes that are of interest to social and personality psychologists. We close by discussing potential opportunities for researchers looking to incorporate psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) into their area of inquiry.
A host–pathogen interactome uncovers phytopathogenic strategies to manipulate plant ABA responses
Authors: Cao Feng Y. , Khan Madiha , Taniguchi Masatoshi , Mirmiran Armand , Moeder Wolfgang , Lumba Shelley , Yoshioka Keiko , Desveaux Darrell
Published: May 2019

The phytopathogen Pseudomonas syringae delivers into host cells type III secreted effectors (T3SEs) that promote virulence. One virulence mechanism employed by T3SEs is to target hormone signaling pathways to perturb hormone homeostasis. The phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) influences interactions between various phytopathogens and their plant hosts, and has been shown to be a target of P. syringae T3SEs. In order to provide insight into how T3SEs manipulate ABA responses, we generated an ABA‐T3SE interactome network (ATIN) between P. syringae T3SEs and Arabidopsis proteins encoded by ABA‐regulated genes. ATIN consists of 476 yeast‐two‐hybrid interactions between 97 Arabidopsis ABA‐regulated proteins and 56 T3SEs from four pathovars of P. syringae. We demonstrate that T3SE interacting proteins are significantly enriched for proteins associated with transcription. In particular, the ETHYLENE RESPONSIVE FACTOR (ERF) family of transcription factors is highly represented. We show that ERF105 and ERF8 displayed a role in defense against P. syringae, supporting our overall observation that T3SEs of ATIN converge on proteins that influence plant immunity. In addition, we demonstrate that T3SEs that interact with a large number of ABA‐regulated proteins can influence ABA responses. One of these T3SEs, HopF3Pph6, inhibits the function of ERF8, which influences both ABA‐responses and plant immunity. These results provide a potential mechanism for how HopF3Pph6 manipulates ABA‐responses to promote P. syringae virulence, and also demonstrate the utility of ATIN as a resource to study the ABA‐T3SE interface.
In vitro quality and platelet function of cold and delayed cold storage of apheresis platelet concentrates in platelet additive solution for 21 days
Authors: Braathen Hanne , Sivertsen Joar , Lunde Turid Helen Felli , Kristoffersen Einar Klæboe , Assmus Jörg , Hervig Tor Audun , Strandenes Geir , Apelseth Torunn Oveland
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

Cold storage of platelets may extend shelf life compared to room temperature storage. This study aimed to investigate in vitro platelet quality and function in cold‐stored and delayed‐cold‐stored nonagitated apheresis platelets in platelet additive solution during storage for 21 days.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Ten double apheresis platelet concentrates in 37% plasma/63% PAS‐IIIM were split into two groups; nonagitated 2 to 6°C storage (CSPs) and delayed cold storage (DCSPs) with 7 days agitated storage at 20‐24°C followed by nonagitated cold storage for 14 additional days. Platelet count, metabolism, viscoelastic properties, and aggregation ability were measured on Days 1, 7, 14, and 21.

RESULTS

All platelet units, both CSPs and DCSPs, complied with the EU guidelines throughout storage for 21 days. Swirling was not detectable after cold storage. Cold storage improved platelet function; however, DCSP on Day 7 showed poorer results compared to CSP. Cold storage slowed down metabolism, with lower lactate and higher glucose concentrations in the CSP compared to the DCSP throughout storage for 21 days.

CONCLUSION

Cold storage of platelets improved platelet function in in vitro assays, even though delayed cold storage on Day 7 showed poorer results compared to continuous cold storage. This difference could be explained by accelerated metabolism and higher glucose consumption during the period of room temperature storage. Cold storage and delayed cold storage could ease inventory management. Further studies investigating the in vitro and clinical effects of cold‐stored and delayed‐cold‐stored platelets are encouraged.
Blood utilization in five Chinese hospitals shows low hemoglobin thresholds in medical patients
Authors: Carson Jeffrey L. , Liu Yu , Ness Paul , Zaccaro Daniel J. , Wu Binting , Meng Chan , Zeng Xuejun , Qin Li , Huang Chunyan , Zhou Xiaoyu , Xiong Ting , Li Jie , Xing Jianwu , Liao Qun , Zheng Qian , Zhang Xiaoyan , Wang Jingxing , Shan Hua
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

The number of red blood cell units transfused per capita in China is lower than in western countries and the reason(s) for the difference is unknown.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We randomly chose 5050 transfused patients from five Chinese hospitals. We compared transfused cases to nontransfused controls matched for the same underlying diagnosis. We assessed the pretransfusion hemoglobin (Hb) trigger and other clinical characteristics associated with transfusion. After stratifying by underlying disease, we compared pretransfusion Hb level in Chinese hospitals to 12 US hospitals.

RESULTS

In 5050 patients who received transfusion, the pretransfusion Hb levels were lower in medical (6.3 g/dL) compared to surgical patients receiving transfusion postoperatively (8.1 g/dL). In patients with nonsurgical diagnoses, the pretransfusion Hb was much lower than that in the United States; the difference in mean Hb level varied by underlying diagnosis from 0.4 to 1.8 g/dL. In case–control analysis of cases (n = 1356) compared to controls (n = 1201), the pretransfusion Hb showed the strongest association with transfusion. Compared to 10 g/dL, the odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for pretransfusion Hb of 7 to 7.9 g/dL was 37.7 (24.8‐57.4).

CONCLUSION

Transfusion triggers in five Chinese hospitals appear comparable to those in the United States for surgical patients; however, medical patients have lower pretransfusion Hb levels (approx. 6 g/dL). Of the factors assessed, the pretransfusion Hb was most strongly associated with transfusion. The clinical impact of lower transfusion thresholds used in China is unknown.
Regulation and function of IL‐22 in peritoneal adhesion formation after abdominal surgery
Authors: Wang Qingbo , Huang Yongming , Zhou Rui , Wu Ke , Li Wei , Shi Liang , Xia Zefeng , Tao Kaixiong , Wang Guobin , Wang Geng
Published: May 2019

Peritoneal adhesion occurs frequently after gastrointestinal/gynecological surgery. Tissue repair and regeneration are very important during this process. IL‐22 is an important cytokine that is secreted from immune cells but functions on mesenchymal cells, such as mesothelial cells. The objective of this study was to investigate the roles of IL‐22 and its regulators during adhesion formation. Postsurgical peritoneal drainage fluid from patients and rodent models was examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and fluorescence‐activated cell sorting. It was observed that IL‐22 expression in the abdominal cavity was rapidly induced 12 hours after surgery and then slowly decreased to a lower, steady level for up to 7 days after surgery. However, neutralizing IL‐22 at the time point at which the highest level of expression was observed failed to reduce adhesion, but neutralizing IL‐22 at a later time point, i.e., 3 days after surgery, prevented adhesion significantly. The IL‐22 receptor was induced on the mesothelial membrane, and IL‐22BP, an inhibitor of IL‐22, was reduced 3 days after surgery. Furthermore, IFN‐γ was identified to have the ability to induce IL‐22R, and IL‐18, which was induced by the infiltrating macrophages, was found to inhibit IL‐22BP expression both in vivo and in vitro. Together, these data suggest that IL‐22 may promote adhesion formation and that the regulation of IL‐22, IL‐22R, and IL‐22BP may have therapeutic potential to prevent adhesion formation after surgery without disturbing the normal immune process.
Weld Quality Prediction in Ultrasonic Welding of Carbon Fiber Composite Based on an Ultrasonic Wave Transmission Model
Authors: Li Yang , Liu Zhiwei , Shen Junqi , Lee Tae Hwa , Banu Mihaela , Hu S. Jack
Published: May 2019

Ultrasonic welding has been widely used in joining plastic parts since it is fast, economical, and suitable for automation. It also has great potential for joining thermoplastic composite structures in the aerospace and automotive industries. For a successful industrial application of ultrasonic composite welding, it is necessary to have effective weld quality prediction technology. This paper proposes a model for weld quality prediction by establishing a correlation between ultrasonic wave transmission and welding process signatures. The signatures, welding power, and force are directly related to the weld quality. This model is used to predict the weld quality with three contact conditions and validated by experiments. The results show that the quality model performs well when a centralized and consistent contact condition is achieved. The model provides a process physics-based solution for the online weld quality prediction in ultrasonic welding of carbon fiber composite.
Machine-Learnt Turbulence Closures for Low-Pressure Turbines With Unsteady Inflow Conditions
Authors: Akolekar H. D. , Sandberg R. D. , Hutchins N. , Michelassi V. , Laskowski G.
Published: May 2019

The design of low-pressure turbines (LPTs) must account for the losses generated by the unsteady interaction with the upstream blade row. The estimation of such unsteady wake-induced losses requires the accurate prediction of the incoming wake dynamics and decay. Existing linear turbulence closures (stress–strain relationships), however, do not offer an accurate prediction of the wake mixing. Therefore, machine-learnt, nonlinear turbulence closures (models) have been developed for LPT flows with unsteady inflow conditions using a zonal-based model development approach, with an aim to enhance the wake mixing prediction for unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes calculations. High-fidelity time-averaged and phase-lock averaged data at a realistic isentropic Reynolds number and two reduced frequencies, i.e., with discrete incoming wakes and with wake “fogging,” have been used as reference data for a machine learning algorithm based on gene expression programing to develop models. Models developed via phase-lock averaged data were able to capture the effect of certain prominent physical phenomena in LPTs such as wake–wake interactions, whereas models based on the time-averaged data could not. Correlations with the flow physics lead to a set of models that can effectively enhance the wake mixing prediction across the entire LPT domain for both cases. Based on a newly developed error metric, the developed models have reduced the a priori error over the Boussinesq approximation on average by 45%. This study thus aids blade designers in selecting the appropriate nonlinear closures capable of mimicking the physical mechanisms responsible for loss generation.
Numerical Study of Emission Control of Rural Kitchen for Healthy Environment
Authors: Hamidur Rahman M. , Sadrul Islam A. K. M. , Ruhul Amin M.
Published: May 2019

There is a major health concern for people who use biomass as a fuel for cooking in rural residential kitchens of developing countries. The quality of life is greatly affected due to exposure to exhaust flume. In this study, a typical single-burner conventional stove was used to model a rural kitchen. The overall dimension of the model kitchen is 3.50 m × 2.20 m × 1.85 m. A three-dimensional cfd code was adopted to perform steady-state simulations with appropriate boundary conditions. Numerical accuracy was tested for optimum grid as well. In this study, varying intensity of emissions of CO, CO2, and particulate matter (PM) from different kinds of biofuel burning have been investigated. Dispersions of these pollutants in the kitchen space have been investigated for with and without natural ventilation. The natural ventilation in turn has been investigated with and without hood systems. It has been observed that CO (95 PPM), CO2 (2200 PPM), and PM (750 µg/m3) concentration exceed by significant amount than the safe threshold (Wisconsin Department of Health Services, USA, and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), USA) (CO ≤ 10 PPM, CO2 ≤ 1000 PPM, and PM ≤ 150 µg/m3) for no ventilation case. Even the natural ventilation condition through roof top chimney fails to keep the concentration below the safe limit. Only natural ventilation can reduce CO, CO2, and PM concentrations by 18%, 10%, and 65%, respectively. However, a significant improvement was observed under natural ventilation for the kitchen with the addition of a suction hood along with the roof top chimney. In this exhaust system, the reduction of CO, CO2, and PM10 are seen to be 68%, 55%, and 80%, respectively. Consequently, to overcome the long-term effect of exposure to all harmfull hazardous emissions, it is recommended for any rural kitchen to utilize efficient forced ventilation exhaust system if affordable or an advanced natural ventilation system as proposed in this study utilizing suction hood.
Control of Adaptive Switching in the Sensing-Executing Mode Used to Mitigate Collision in Robot Force Control
Authors: Cao Hongli , He Ye , Chen Xiaoan , Liu Zhi
Published: May 2019

Mitigating collision is a fundamental issue in contact problems, and is required to ensure the safety of a robotic cell. Research into the contact problem between robots and their environment is divided into two parts: one uses the environmental contact model and parameter estimation, the other uses the robot force control method. There are two main problems with this research method. One is that the two research levels are not effectively combined to form a complete solution for force control in practice. The other problem is that research on excessive contact force in the collision phase has not been studied in depth for force control. In this paper, a sensing-executing bionic system is proposed that combines environmental detection and robotic force control based on the way an ant functions. The bionic system clearly explains the process from environment detection to robot control, which can provide guidance when designing a new robot control system. An adaptive switching control algorithm is proposed to mitigate the collision force in the collision phase. From the simulation results, the collision force is significantly reduced due to the implementation of adaptive switching control. Finally, a new self-sensing device is designed which can be integrated into the robot control device. However, as there are no additional sensors or computational complexity in the system, the effectiveness of the circuit and superiority of the adaptive parameter update must be verified by experimentation.
Designing
a Translational Parallel Manipulator Based on the 3SS Kinematic
Joint
Authors: Macho Erik , Urízar Mónica , Petuya Víctor , Hernández Alfonso
Published: May 2019

Nowadays, translational parallel manipulators are widely used in industrial applications related to pick and place tasks. In this paper, a new architecture of a translational parallel manipulator without floating prismatic joints and without redundant constraints is presented, which leads to a robust design from the manufacturing and maintenance point of view. The frame configuration has been chosen with the aim of achieving the widest and most regular operational workspace completely free of singularities. Besides, the position equations of the proposed design are obtained in a closed form, as well as the singularity locus. It will be shown that the proposed design owns a very simple kinematics so that the related equations can be efficiently implemented in the control of the robot. In addition, the Jacobian condition number assessment shows that a wide part of the operational workspace is well-conditioned, and also the existence of an isotropic configuration will be proved. Finally, a prototype has been built by following a modular design approach.
Detection of Faults and Drifts in the Energy Performance of a Building Using Bayesian Networks
Authors: Bigaud David , Charki Abderafi , Caucheteux Antoine , Titikpina Fally , Tiplica Teodor
Published: May 2019

Despite improved commissioning practices, malfunctions or degradation of building systems still contribute to increase up to 20% the energy consumption. During operation and maintenance stage, project and building technical managers need appropriate methods for the detection and diagnosis of faults and drifts of energy performances in order to establish effective preventive maintenance strategies. This paper proposes a hybrid and multilevel fault detections and diagnosis (FDD) tool dedicated to the identification and prioritization of corrective maintenance actions helping to ensure the energy performance of buildings. For this purpose, we use dynamic Bayesian networks (DBN) to monitor the energy consumption and detect malfunctions of building equipment and systems by considering both measured occupancy and the weather conditions (number of persons on site, temperature, relative humidity (RH), etc.). The hybrid FDD approach developed makes possible the use of both measured and simulated data. The training of the Bayesian network for functional operating mode relies on on-site measurements. As far as dysfunctional operating modes are concerned, they rely mainly on knowledge extracted from dynamic thermal analysis simulating various operational faults and drifts. The methodology is applied to a real building and demonstrates the way in which the prioritization of most probable causes can be set for a fault affecting energy performance. The results have been obtained for a variety of simulated situations with faults deliberately injected, such as increase in heating preset temperature and deterioration of the transmission coefficient of the building's glazing. The limitations of the methodology are discussed and are translated in terms of the ability to optimize the experiment design, control period, or threshold adjustment on the control charts used.
Multivariable Nonlinear Data-Driven Control With Application to Autonomous Vehicle Lateral Dynamics
Authors: Galluppi Olga , Formentin Simone , Savaresi Sergio M. , Novara Carlo
Published: May 2019

Complex engineering systems are usually described by the interaction of several agents and characterized by highly nonlinear dynamics. Control of multivariable nonlinear systems is a widely explored topic, and many different studies have been presented in the scientific literature. However, most of the existing methods strongly rely upon an accurate model of the system, which is generally costly and/or hard to undertake in practice. In this work, we propose a multivariable extension of the data-driven inversion-based control (D2-IBC) method, where a model of the system is derived from data and considered relevant or not, based only on its weight on the final control performance. This method will prove its effectiveness on a challenging application: the stability control of a four-wheel steering autonomous vehicle.
A Task-Space Tracking Control Approach for Duct Cleaning Robot Based on Fuzzy Wavelet Neural Network
Authors: Dexu Bu , Weiwei Kong , Yunlong Qi
Published: May 2019

In this study, a task-space adaptive robust control methodology which takes uncertainties and external disturbances into account is proposed for a class of duct cleaning mobile manipulators. First of all, the configuration of the real duct cleaning robot is introduced, and the Jacobian matrix and the dynamic model of the real robotic system are obtained. Then, the structure of adaptive robust controller based on sliding mode control (SMC) approach and the fuzzy wavelet neural network is detailed, the proposed control approach combines the advantages of SMC which can suppress the external disturbances with the fuzzy wavelet neural network which can compensate the uncertainties by its strong ability to approximate a nonlinear function to an arbitrary accuracy, the stability of the whole robotic control system, the uniformly ultimately boundedness of tracking errors, and the boundedness of fuzzy wavelet neural networks weight estimation errors are all guaranteed based on the Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, simulation results are presented to demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed approach, and experiments are given to illustrate that the proposed approach is useful for real duct cleaning robot system with well performance.
Laser Surface Modification of Rare Earth Containing Magnesium Alloy Through Simulated Body Fluid and Its Impact on Cell Viability
Authors: Indira Khadka , Zhongke Wang , Hongyu Zheng , Sylvie Castagne
Published: May 2019

Magnesium alloys have a good potential as structural biomaterials for temporary implant applications because of their self-degradation properties and biocompatibility. The surface condition is important for such applications, and lasers are often used to modify the surface characteristics of such components. In this context, the media through which the laser beam passes before reaching the surface to be irradiated is also of interest. In particular, laser irradiation in liquids affects the thermal energy delivery to the surface of the material, which in turns influences the formation of surface structures. In this work, rare earth containing WE54 Mg alloy has been irradiated under air and through a simulated body fluid (SBF) layer using a 500 watt pulsed Nd: YAG laser. As compared to direct laser surface treatment through air, laser irradiation through SBF generates new surface structures and deposition of ions issued from the SBF solution. Scanning electron microscope combined with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) was used for the examination of surface structures formation and determination of elemental composition. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) culture was performed on laser modified WE54 alloy surface, and the MSC cytocompatibility on SBF-treated substrates was evaluated by the PrestoBlue™ assay test method. Cell reproducibility was observed on the SBF laser-treated surface which indicated that cell viability was improved by the surface treatment. The deposition of calcium and phosphorus ions on the WE54 surface was beneficial for cell viability. These results motivate the potential use of SBF-based films for biomedical purposes.
New and interesting oribatid mites (Acari, Oribatida) phoretic on Aceraius grandis (Coleoptera, Passalidae) from Vietnam
Authors: Ermilov Sergey G. , Frolov Andrey V.
Published: May 2019

Five oribatid mite species (Oribatida), phoretic on beetles, Aceraius grandis (Coleoptera, Passalidae) from Vietnam, are identified: two new species, belonging to the subgenera Graptoppia (Stenoppia) (Oppiidae) and Perscheloribates (Perscheloribates) (Scheloribatidae), are described; and three known species are Mesoplophora (Parplophora) flavida, M. (P.) polita and Ramusella (Sabahoppia) blattarum. Graptoppia (Stenoppia) luisi sp. nov. differs from all species of the subgenus by the presence of tridentate rostrum. Perscheloribates kontumensis sp. nov. differs from Perscheloribates curiosus Ermilov, 2016, Perscheloribates hanoiensis Ermilov & Starý, 2018 and Perscheloribates surigaoensis Corpuz-Raros, 1980 by the presence of body sculpturing, distinct setiform apex in bothridial setae and flexible notogastral setae. Species M. (P.) flavida, M. (P.) polita and R. blattarum, the subgenera Mesoplophora (Parplophora) and Ramusella (Sabahoppia), and the genera Mesoplophora and Graptoppia are recorded in Vietnam for the first time; the subgenus Graptoppia (Stenoppia) is recorded in the Oriental region for the first time. An identification key to known species of Graptoppia (Stenoppia) is given.
An accidental finding of a demodectic mite on a slide: Demodex folliculorum (Simon) (Acari: Demodecidae)
Authors: Doğan Salih , Doğan Sibel
Published: May 2019

This paper presents accidental occurrence of a human skin mite, Demodex folliculorum (Simon) (Acari: Demodecidae), on a microscopic slide in Turkey.
Gas equilibration gas modulation refractometry for assessment of pressure with sub-ppm precision
Authors: Silander Isak , Hausmaninger Thomas , Forssén Clayton , Zelan Martin , Axner Ove
Published: May 2019

Gas modulation refractometry (GAMOR) is a methodology that, by performing repeated reference assessments with the measurement cavity being evacuated while the reference cavity is held at a constant pressure, can mitigate drifts in dual Fabry-Perot cavity based refractometry. A novel realization of GAMOR, referred to as gas equilibration GAMOR, that outperforms the original realization of GAMOR, here referred to as single cavity modulated GAMOR (SCM-GAMOR), is presented. In this, the reference measurements are carried out by equalizing the pressures in the two cavities, whereby the time it takes to reach adequate conditions for the reference measurements has been reduced. This implies that a larger fraction of the measurement cycle can be devoted to data acquisition, which reduces white noise and improves on its short-term characteristics. The presented realization also encompasses a new cavity design with improved temperature stabilization and assessment. This has contributed to improved long-term characteristics of the GAMOR methodology. The system was characterized with respect to a dead weight pressure balance. It was found that the system shows a significantly improved precision with respect to SCM-GAMOR for all integration times. For a pressure of 4303 Pa, it can provide a response for short integration times (up to 10 min) of 1.5 mPa (cycle)1/2, while for longer integration times (up to 18 h), it shows an integration time-independent Allan deviation of 1 mPa (corresponding to a precision, defined as twice the Allan deviation, of 0.5 ppm), exceeding the original SCM-GAMOR system by a factor of 2 and 8, respectively. When used for low pressures, it can provide a precision in the sub-mPa region; for the case with an evacuated measurement cavity, the system provided, for up to 40 measurement cycles (ca. 1.5 h), a white noise of 0.7 mPa (cycle)1/2, and a minimum Allan deviation of 0.15 mPa. It shows a purely linear response in the 2.8–10.1 kPa range. This implies that the system can be used for the transfer of calibration over large pressure ranges with exceptional low uncertainty.
Transition in layer structure of atomic/molecular layer deposited ZnO-zincone multilayers
Authors: Niemelä Janne-Petteri , Aghaee Morteza , Kessels Wilhelmus M. M. (Erwin) , Creatore Mariadriana , Verheijen Marcel A.
Published: May 2019

In this work, atomic-resolution transmission electron microscopy studies show that in atomic/molecular layer deposited ZnO-zincone [(ZnO)a(Zn-O-C6H4-O)b] multilayer thin films, ZnO crystals grow vertically and continuously through lateral zincone monolayers. When the thickness of zincone is increased from one to few monolayers, the growth of the ZnO crystals becomes confined, leading to the formation of discrete ZnO/zincone interfaces accompanied by a decrease in roughness. Apart from providing understanding on the formation of interfaces and on the structure of hybrid multilayers, these findings are relevant, e.g., for understanding thermoelectric interface phenomena at inorganic-organic interfaces and x-ray reflectometry of hybrid multilayer thin films.
Soundscape evaluation: Binaural or monaural?
Authors: Xu Chunyang , Kang Jian
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study is to explore the performance of binaural and monaural recordings in soundscape evaluation. Twelve sites with different acoustic scenarios were chosen, where binaural and monaural recordings were simultaneously made. Nine soundscape indicators were assessed by residents through a laboratory-based auditory test. The results showed that the two recording methods present good agreement on most soundscape evaluation indicators including overall impression, acoustic comfort, pleasantness, annoyance, eventfulness, and loudness. The two recording methods were found to be correlated with different indicators in a similar way. For most sites, the two recording methods were significantly correlated excluding for directionality. For both recording methods, the A-weighted sound pressure level was found to have a weak impact on soundscape evaluation. Reverberation time significantly affects reverberance through binaural recordings. Overall, for most soundscape indicators, it is feasible to use both recording methods, although when “realism,” “reverberance,” and “directivity” are involved in evaluation, binaural recordings will render corresponding perception more consistently than the monaural.
A comparison of impulse response modification techniques for time reversal with application to crack detection
Authors: Young Sarah M. , Anderson Brian E. , Willardson Matthew L. , Simpson Paige E. , Le Bas Pierre-Yves
Published: May 2019

Time reversal (TR) focusing used for nonlinear detection of cracks relies on the ability of the TR process to provide spatially localized, high-amplitude excitation. The high amplitude improves the ability to detect nonlinear features that are a signature of the motion of closed cracks. It follows that a higher peak focal amplitude than what can be generated with the traditional TR process will improve the detection capability. Modifying the time-reversed impulse response to increase the amplitude of later arrivals in the impulse response, while maintaining the phase information of all arrivals, increases the overall focal signal amplitude. A variety of existing techniques for increasing amplitude are discussed, and decay compensation TR, a technique wherein amplitude is increased according to the inverse of the amplitude envelope of the impulse response decay, is identified as the best modification technique for nonlinear crack detection. This technique increases the focal signal amplitude with a minor introduction of harmonic content, a drawback in two other methods studied, one-bit TR and clipping TR. A final study employs both decay compensation TR and traditional TR, focusing on a rod with stress corrosion cracking, and compares the merits of each in detecting nonlinearity from cracks in a real system.
Trust and Distrust in Community Sports Work: Tales From the “Shop Floor”
Authors: Gale Laura A. , Ives Ben A. , Potrac Paul A. , Nelson Lee J.
Published: May 2019

This study addressed the issue of interpersonal trust and distrust in the (sporting) workplace. Data were generated through cyclical, in-depth interviews with 12 community sports coaches. The interview transcripts were subjected to emic and etic readings, with Hardin and Cook’s theorization of (dis)trust and Goffman’s dramaturgical writings providing the primary heuristic devices. Our analysis produced three interconnected themes. These were a) how the participants’ decision to (dis)trust contextual others was based on their perceptions of encapsulated interests, b) those strategies that the participants employed to judge the trustworthiness of colleagues, and c) how the participants’ workplace bonds with coworkers differed according to their perceived trustworthiness. Importantly, this study revealed how interpersonal (dis)trust for these individuals was informed by the pursuit of various professional interests, uncertainty regarding continued employment and career progression, and was subject to ongoing strategic interaction and reflection. Based on these findings, we believe there is much to gain from the micro-level exploration of “how” and “why” sports workers seek to negotiate and manage workplace relationships.
Heroes at Home, Suspects Abroad? National and International Perceptions of Elite-Sports Success
Authors: Haut Jan , Gassmann Freya , Emrich Eike , Meyer Tim , Pierdzioch Christian
Published: May 2019

It is often claimed that elite sport success increases national pride as well as the international prestige of a country. To scrutinize this broad-shed assumption, we draw on data from an online survey carried out around the Rio 2016 Olympics, including questions on success, national identity and attitudes towards other countries and athletes. Exploratory analyses of open questions reveal that successful athletes celebrated at home are often ignored abroad. A country’s international image is rather shaped by negative perceptions regarding doping or unfairness. Statistical analyses of standardized questions support previous findings on the reception of sport events, such as the strong connection of national pride and desire for elite sport success. However, there is also strong indication for shared international standards of sportsmanship.
Ultrafast correlated charge and lattice motion in a hybrid metal halide perovskite
Authors: Lan Yang , Dringoli Benjamin J. , Valverde-Chávez David A. , Ponseca Carlito S. , Sutton Mark , He Yihui , Kanatzidis Mercouri G. , Cooke David G.
Published: May 2019

Polarons in CH
3
NH
3
PbI
3
are observed by terahertz spectroscopy showing coherent motion of charges coupled with lattice vibrations.
Enhanced thermoelectric performance of heavy-fermion compounds Yb
TM
2
Zn
20
(
TM
= Co, Rh, Ir) at low temperatures
Authors: Wei Kaya , Neu Jennifer N. , Lai You , Chen Kuan-Wen , Hobbis Dean , Nolas George S. , Graf David E. , Siegrist Theo , Baumbach Ryan E.
Published: May 2019

We report enhanced thermoelectric properties of cage-like heavy-fermion compounds Yb
TM
2
Zn
20
(
TM
= Co, Rh, Ir).
CTLA-4–mediated transendocytosis of costimulatory molecules primarily targets migratory dendritic cells
Authors: Ovcinnikovs Vitalijs , Ross Ellen M. , Petersone Lina , Edner Natalie M. , Heuts Frank , Ntavli Elisavet , Kogimtzis Alexandros , Kennedy Alan , Wang Chun Jing , Bennett Clare L. , Sansom David M. , Walker Lucy S. K.
Published: May 2019

CTLA-4 transendocytosis is elicited by self-antigens and down-regulates costimulatory ligands on migratory dendritic cells.
Caspase-11 Contributes to Oviduct Pathology during Genital
Chlamydia
Infection in Mice
Authors: Allen John , Gyorke Clare E. , Tripathy Manoj K. , Zhang Yugen , Lovett Angela , Montgomery Stephanie A. , Nagarajan Uma M.
Published: May 2019

It has been shown that caspase-1, but not its upstream activator, ASC, contributes to oviduct pathology during mouse genital
Chlamydia muridarum
infection. We hypothesized that this dichotomy is due to the inadvertent absence of caspase-11 in previously used caspase-1-deficient mice. To address this, we studied the independent contributions of caspase-1 and -11 during genital
Chlamydia
infection.