bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Power Plant Components With Flaws and Defects Operating in the Long-Term Creep Range
Authors: Speicher Magdalena , Bender Thorben , Klenk Andreas , Mueller Falk , Kontermann Christian , Ewald Juergen
Published: October 2019

Originating from defects and flaws in high temperature components crack initiation and crack propagation under service conditions can occur. Fracture mechanics data and procedures are needed to study crack problems and to support an advanced remnant life evaluation. During subsequent research in the past 35 years, data were determined for different high temperature materials. Methodologies and concepts taking into account the specific material behavior were developed in order to be able to describe crack initiation and crack growth and have appropriate assessment methods available. For creep crack initiation, two criteria principles were used and for creep crack growth assessment based on the integral C* parameter were applied. Furthermore, a method for determination of critical crack length was developed allowing decisions whether modified stress analysis methods are sufficient or more complicated fracture mechanics methods are needed. To provide data and methodologies in a user-friendly way, a program system combining data and methods was implemented. The paper describes developed features and shows comparisons to other methods. The methods can be applied for design purposes as well as remnant life assessments.
A Numerical Analysis of the Effect of Atmospheric Pressure on the Performance of a Heating System With a Self-Recuperative Burner
Authors: López Yefferson , García Alex M. , Amell Andrés A.
Published: October 2019

This work evaluated the performance of a combustion chamber operating with a self-recuperative burner at various atmospheric pressures by means of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. The aim was to determine the effect of atmospheric pressure on the main variables of the combustion system through mathematical correlations and numerical simulations. Parameters such as heat transfer from flue gases to the load, fluid dynamic inside the combustion chamber volume, exhaust gas composition, and burner effectiveness were monitored to analyze the performance of the reheating furnace and the self-recuperative burner. Three atmospheric pressure conditions were examined corresponding to different meters above sea level (masl) altitudes: 1 atm (0 masl), 0.85 atm (1550 masl), and 0.74 atm (2600 masl). The simulations used an axisymmetric 2D geometry of the system in steady state, where the heat exchanger of the self-recuperative burner was considered. It was found that the Eddy dissipation concept (EDC) model, associated with a reduced mechanism, presented good results for temperature and species concentration with low computational time. Two cases were compared: one maintained the fuel, combustion air, and ejection air mass flows constant at sea-level operation values with changing atmospheric pressures, referred to as the corrected case, while the other, not-corrected case, allowed the mass flows to vary as a result of changes in auxiliary performance with the atmospheric pressure. The CFD results indicated that atmospheric pressure did not have a significant effect on the performance of the combustion and heating systems when the mass flows were corrected for the effects of atmospheric pressure. However, when these mass flows were not corrected, the average temperature of the process decreased, while the concentration of CO and CO2 in the exhaust gases increased and the heat transfer on the load by radiation decreased. Finally, the performance of the self-recuperative burner remained constant with atmospheric pressure if the mass flows were corrected and increased when the mass flows were not corrected.
Investigation of Fluid-Elastic Instability in Tube Arrays at Low Mass Damping Parameters in Cross-Flow
Authors: Guo Kai , Xu Wei , Jia Zhanbin , Tan Wei
Published: October 2019

Fluid-elastic instability (FEI) is the most dangerous vibration mechanism in tube arrays. As the research shows in the recent years, the mechanism of FEI turns to be clear, but threshold prediction in low mass damping parameter (MDP) tube arrays is still not accurate because of the complexity of the instability mechanism. In this work, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation is first validated by comparison with the water tunnel experiments in four kinds of tube arrangements and then extended to two-phase flow to get more data in low MDP range. Using fluid force coefficients calculated by CFD simulation, unsteady modeling of the tube model is established and the critical velocities match well with experiment and CFD simulation results. The effect of tube arrangement and Reynolds number on the fluid force coefficients and the predicted critical velocity is studied according to the unsteady flow theory. The results show that instability critical velocity of the normal triangular array can be underestimated at MDP lower than 1. When the frequency ratio (streamwise direction to transverse direction) decreases to below 0.8 in the rotated triangular array, the streamwise instability occurs earlier than transverse instability. The methods and conclusions in this paper can be used in FEI analysis in both streamwise direction and transverse direction.
Bifurcation Analysis and Chaotic Behaviors of a Spur Microsegment Gear Pair With Time-Varying Pressure Angle
Authors: Huang Kang , Sang Meng , Xiong Yangshou , Xu Fengwei
Published: October 2019

The study performs a dynamic analysis of a microsegment gear system with respect to the time-varying stiffness, gear backlash, time-varying pressure angle, and comprehensive error. The period expansion method is proposed to construct a single-degree-of-freedom nonlinear dynamic model of a spur microsegment gear pair. To improve the accuracy of simulation results, the time-varying mesh stiffness and the time-varying pressure angle are expressed in terms of piecewise Fourier functions, respectively. The effect of mesh frequency, backlash, mesh damping, and input power on bifurcation, and chaos properties of the system are analyzed. The numerical results indicate that the system performs a chaotic motion after several frequency jumps as the mesh frequency increases. When the backlash increases, the frequency region of double-side impact and chaos tends to be decreased. The effect of mesh damping and input power on bifurcation characteristics is also investigated. The increase in mesh damping and input power can stabilize the system and avoid double-side impact. The results potentially present a useful source of reference for technicians and engineers for the dynamic design and vibration control of the aforementioned system with a nonconstant pressure angle.
A New Regression-Based Approach to Estimate the Shape Parameter of MQ-RBFs in a Free Convection Problem
Authors: Pekmen Geridönmez Bengisen
Published: October 2019

In this study, a novel procedure is proposed to determine the shape parameter of multiquadric (MQ) radial basis function (RBF) utilizing multivariate adaptive regression splines (Mars) in a free convection problem. Input data (truth data) of Mars is prepared by applying MQ-RBF pseudospectral (PS) method to a free convection problem in a cavity with differentially heated vertical walls. Shape parameter determination in this step is also proposed. The input data obtained by the numerical method and by the proposed way to determine shape parameter is used in the package earth of R project, and a model function is built to estimate the shape parameter. Then, instead of using the proposed search inside the numerical method, the model function determines the shape parameter at any truth data. Results are also compared with a benchmark study, and good agreement is observed in the same free convection problem. The model function built is also tested against the results of the original method.
Shape and Performance Controlled Advanced Design for Additive Manufacturing: A Review of Slicing and Path Planning
Authors: Zhao Donghua , Guo Weizhong
Published: October 2019

Additive manufacturing (AM) brings out a revolution of how the products are designed and manufactured. To obtain desired components, advanced design for additive manufacturing (ADfAM) is widely emphasized in geometry, material, and function design. 3D slicing and path planning, which are the critical steps of ADfAM, directly determine manufacturing process variables, shape, and performance of printed parts. For widely used planar slicing, the contradiction between accuracy and build time has attracted considerable attention and efforts, leading to various novel and optimization methods. Nevertheless, curved surfaces and slopes along the build direction constrain the surfaces to be smooth due to the inherent staircase effect of AM. Meanwhile, there is significant anisotropy of the printed piece making it sensitive to any shear (or bending) stress. Moreover, support structures for the overhang part are necessary when building along one direction, resulting in time-consuming and cost-expensive process. Due to the rapid development of 3D slicing and path planning, and various newly proposed methods, there is a lack of comprehensive knowledge. Notwithstanding, there are fewer literature reviews concerning planar slicing and filling strategy. Less attention has been paid to non-planar slicing, path planning on curved surfaces, and multi-degree of freedom (DOF) AM equipment, as well as printing under pressure. Hence, it is significant to get a comprehensive understanding of current status and challenges. Then, with suitable technologies, the printed parts with improved surface quality, minimum support structures, and better isotropy could be acquired. Finally, the recommendation for the future development of slicing and path planning is also provided.
Radical recombination sensor based on dual probe thermopile heat flux sensors
Authors: Velthuis Johannes F. M. , Storm Arnold , van Kampen Maarten , van der Horst Ruud , Profijt Harald B.
Published: October 2019

Hydrogen radicals play an important role in, e.g., the cleaning of extreme ultraviolet reflective mirrors. Therefore, there is a need to quantify the surface radical flux in the various (plasma) setups where these effects are studied. In this paper, a catalytic radical sensor is presented, based on the measurement of the recombination heat of radicals on a surface, using dual probe thermopile heat flux sensors (HFSs). The first HFS1 has a high recombination (probability) coefficient coating, e.g., Pt. The second HFS2 has a low recombination coefficient coating, e.g., Al2O3. Signal subtraction largely eliminates common mode heat losses/gains such as conduction/convection and IR radiation, the net result representing the radical recombination heat. The signal can be improved by switching the radical source on/off at regular intervals. Radical recombination rates were measured in a remote microwave plasma chamber (38 Pa H2) over the range 1018−1021 atH/(m2 s), with nearly linear response as a function of plasma power setting. The sensor full scale limit is ∼1023 atH/(m2 s) and is dictated by the maximum allowable sensor surface temperature (<250 °C).
The Rho-Independent Transcription Terminator for the
porA
Gene Enhances Expression of the Major Outer Membrane Protein and Campylobacter jejuni Virulence in Abortion Induction
Authors: Dai Lei , Wu Zuowei , Xu Changyun , Sahin Orhan , Yaeger Michael , Plummer Paul J. , Zhang Qijing
Published: October 2019

Campylobacter jejuni
is a leading cause of foodborne illnesses worldwide. Its
porA
gene encodes the major outer membrane protein (MOMP) that is abundantly expressed and has important physiological functions, including a key role in systemic infection and abortion induction in pregnant animals. Despite the importance of
porA
in
C. jejuni
pathogenesis, mechanisms modulating its expression levels remain elusive.
Spatial patterns of erosion and landscape evolution in a bivergent metamorphic core complex revealed by cosmogenic 10Be: The central Menderes Massif (western Turkey)
Authors: Heineke Caroline , Hetzel Ralf , Nilius Nils-Peter , Glotzbach Christoph , Akal Cüneyt , Christl Marcus , Hampel Andrea
Published: October 2019

In extensional provinces with low-angle normal faulting (such as the Aegean region), both tectonic processes and erosion induce landscape change, but their interaction during the evolution of topography and relief accompanying continental extension has rarely been addressed. Here we present local and catchment-wide 10Be erosion rates that document the spatial pattern of erosion in the central Menderes Massif, a metamorphic core complex consisting of two asymmetric mountain ranges (Bozdağ and Aydın) bound by detachment faults and active grabens. Catchment-wide erosion rates on the northern flank of the Bozdağ Range are rather low (40–110 mm/k.y.) but reach values of >300 mm/k.y. on the steep southern escarpment—a pattern that reflects both topography and bedrock lithology. In the Aydın Range, erosion rates are generally higher, with mean erosion rates of ∼190 and ∼260 mm/k.y. on the northern and southern flank, respectively, and more variable along strike. In both ranges, erosion rates of ridge crests derived from amalgamated clasts are 30–90 mm/k.y. The difference between local and catchment-wide erosion rates indicates that topographic relief increases in most parts of the massif in response to ongoing fault-related uplift and concomitant river incision. Our findings document that tectonic processes exert a significant control on landscape evolution during active continental extension and are reflected in both the topographic signature and the spatial pattern of erosion. In the Menderes Massif, rock susceptibility to weathering and erosion is a dominant factor that controls the erosional contribution to rock exhumation, which varies spatially between ∼10% and ∼50%.
Analysis on flow features of unsteady Williamson fluid inaugurated by melted wedge in the presence of heat generation–absorption: an extensive computational study
Authors: Awais M. , Bilal S. , Ur Rehman Khalil , Malik M.Y.
Published: October 2019

After various thought-provoking experimental and theoretical investigations on heat transfer characteristics of usual liquids, researchers recommended the idea of inclusion of nano-sized structures into host liquid. This idea yielded a tremendous revolution in the world of fluid mechanics and brought researchers’ and scientists’ attention in this direction. The present paper is addresses enhancing the unique flow features of Williamson fluid by the inclusion of nano-sized particles. The Williamson fluid model along with prominent factors like magnetic field, heat generation–absorption, stagnation point, and active heat–mass flux are considered over a wedge. The mathematical formulation for the concerned problem is addressed in the form of a system of ordinary differential equations under acceptable governing laws. The attained system of coupled equations is hard to solve analytically. Therefore, a self-coded algorithm known as the shooting method is executed to report a numerical solution. A graphical representation of pertinent profiles and the parameters that affect them are included. Tabular and graphical trends present the influence of involved variables on Williamson momentum conservation and thermal and mass fields. In addition, the physical quantities at the surface of the wedge are also examined. In addition, reliability of the current work is established by constructing a comparison for skin friction values with the published literature. Our result indicates that increment in unsteadiness parameter causes temperature and concentration drop of flowing fluid over the wedge, whereas a positive effect on momentum profile is manifested. Furthermore, viscosity ratio parameter tends to follow the temperature and increase the velocity field. Magnetic field controls the turbulence by decreasing the velocity and increases the temperature. Accelerating behavior in velocity field and diminishing pattern in velocity is portrayed.
Comment on “Solutions of the Dirac equation with an improved expression of the Rosen–Morse potential energy model including Coulomb-like tensor interaction”
Authors: Bouledjedj S. , Khodja A. , Benamira F. , Guechi L.
Published: October 2019

The Nikiforov–Uvarov polynomial method employed by Aguda (Can. J. Phys. 2013, 91: 689. doi: 10.1139/cjp-2013-0109 ) to solve the Dirac equation with an improved Rosen–Morse potential plus a Coulomb-like tensor potential is shown to be inappropriate because the conditions of its application are not fulfilled. We clarify the problem and construct the correct solutions in the spin and pseudospin symmetric regimes via the standard method of solving differential equations. For the bound states, we obtain the spinor wave functions in terms of the generalized hypergeometric functions 2F1(a, b, c; z) and in each regime we show that the energy levels are determined by the solutions of a transcendental equation that can be solved numerically.
Encrypted quantum correlations: delayed choice of quantum statistics and other applications
Authors: Gessner Manuel , Smerzi Augusto
Published: October 2019

In a three-particle extension of Wheeler’s delayed choice gedanken experiment, the quantum statistics of two particles is undetermined until a third particle is measured. As a function of the measurement result, the particles behave either as bosons or as fermions. The particles are distinguishable if no measurement is performed at all or when the measurement is performed in a rotated basis. The scheme is based on Greenberger–Horne–Zeilinger quantum correlations. It can be interpreted more generally as the encryption of maximally entangled states in a larger quantum superposition. The local quantum information is scrambled but can be decoded by the measurement result of a control particle. This can be extended to multiple particles and allows to develop quantum information protocols whose successful implementation depends on the collaboration of all parties.
A Note of Independent Number and Domination Number of Qn,k,m-Graph
Authors: Liu Jiafei , Zhou Shuming , Gu Zhendong , Wang Yihong , Zhou Qianru
Published: October 2019

The independent number and domination number are two essential parameters to assess the resilience of the interconnection network of multiprocessor systems which is usually modeled by a graph. The independent number, denoted by [Formula: see text], of a graph [Formula: see text] is the maximum cardinality of any subset [Formula: see text] such that no two elements in [Formula: see text] are adjacent in [Formula: see text]. The domination number, denoted by [Formula: see text], of a graph [Formula: see text] is the minimum cardinality of any subset [Formula: see text] such that every vertex in [Formula: see text] is either in [Formula: see text] or adjacent to an element of [Formula: see text]. But so far, determining the independent number and domination number of a graph is still an NPC problem. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to determine the number of independent and domination number of some special networks with potential applications in multiprocessor system. In this paper, we firstly resolve the exact values of independent number and upper and lower bound of domination number of the [Formula: see text]-graph, a common generalization of various popular interconnection networks. Besides, as by-products, we derive the independent number and domination number of [Formula: see text]-star graph [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]-arrangement graph [Formula: see text], as well as three special graphs.
Controlled quantum dialogue scheme based on different unspecific two-particle entangled state
Authors: Yin Aihan , Lin Weibin , Fan Ping
Published: October 2019

In this paper, a controlled quantum dialogue (CQD) scheme based on different unspecific two-particle entangled state is proposed, in which legitimate users can exchange their secret messages according to unitary operations they chose and measurement results published by Charlie, realizing transmitting unspecific secrets by using unspecific entangled state. We insert decoy particles twice and get rid of useless secret messages carried by F particles to ensure security of the whole communication system, realizing the three-times channel detection. Compared to previous CQD protocols, the proposed scheme is proved to stand attack from third-party controller, and it is very secure.
Growth in Baumslag–Solitar groups II: The Bass–Serre tree
Authors: Adams Jared , Freden Eric M.
Published: October 2019

Denote the Baumslag–Solitar family of groups as [Formula: see text]). When [Formula: see text] we study the Bass–Serre tree [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] as a geometric object. We suggest that the irregularity of [Formula: see text] is the principal obstruction for computing the growth series for the group. In the particular case [Formula: see text] we exhibit a set [Formula: see text] of normal form words having minimal length for [Formula: see text] and use it to derive various counting algorithms. The language [Formula: see text] is context-sensitive but not context-free. The tree [Formula: see text] has a self-similar structure and contains infinitely many cone types. All cones have the same asymptotic growth rate as [Formula: see text] itself. We derive bounds for this growth rate, the lower bound also being a bound on the growth rate of [Formula: see text].
The Role of Activity and Similarity in Rating and Social Behavior in Social Recommender Systems
Authors: Mukamakuza Carine Pierrette , Sacharidis Dimitris , Werthner Hannes
Published: October 2019

Social recommender systems exploit two sources of information for making recommendations, the historical rating behavior of users, and the social connections among them. The basic assumption is that if two users are friends, they are likely to share similar preferences. Many recommendation approaches are based on such correlations between the rating and the social behavior of users. However, there is little work in studying whether there actually exist such correlations and how strong they are. In our work, we look at the two views of user behavior, their social connections, and their history of ratings, and investigate two research questions. The first examines if strong activity in one view, e.g., having many friends, implies strong activity in the other view, e.g., having rated many items. The second investigates whether high similarity in one view, e.g., network similarity, implies high similarity in the other view, e.g., rating similarity. We employ various notions of activity and similarity, and identify those that appear to have the stronger impact. Specifically, to some degree, we find that rating behavior determines social behavior, and that the opposite relationship is weaker.
BLEMAT: Data Analytics and Machine Learning for Smart Building Occupancy Detection and Prediction
Authors: Pešić Saša , Tošić Milenko , Iković Ognjen , Radovanović Miloš , Ivanović Mirjana , Bošković Dragan
Published: October 2019

Running costs of buildings represent a significant outlay for all businesses, thus finding a way to run facilities as efficiently as possible is vital. IoT-enabled Building Management Systems provide means for process and resource usage automation leading to overall efficiency improvements. Inferring spatial and temporal occupancy in all its forms (binary, numerical or continuous) is one of the key contextual inputs required for smart building management systems. In this work, we showcase design, implementation and experimental validation of a smart building occupancy detection and forecasting solution. The presented solution comprises three main building blocks: (1) A fog computing indoor positioning system (BLEMAT — Bluetooth Low Energy Microlocation Asset Tracking) which, combined with wireless access network monitoring processes, produces indoor location information in a semi-unsupervised manner; (2) Data analysis and pattern searching pipelines responsible for fusing data coming from different smart building and networking systems and deriving information on temporal and spatial occupancy patterns; (3) Long short-term memory (LSTM) neural networks trained to predict occupancy patterns in different areas of a smart building. Data analysis and neural network training are conducted on real-world smart building dataset which authors provide in public online repository. Experimental validation confirms that the proposed solution can provide actionable occupancy detection and prediction information, required by smart building management systems.
Locality and the uniqueness of quantum invariants
Authors: Frohman Charles
Published: October 2019

We introduce the notion of a “state function” for framed tangles in a disk. After choosing a finite set of states for each marked disk, a state function is a projection from the vector space spanned by all tangles to the vector space spanned by the states, that is local, and topologically invariant. Given the states for the Kauffman bracket, and the quantum [Formula: see text]-invariant we classify all state functions, and then compare our results to the literature.
TG-Hyperbolicity of virtual links
Authors: Adams Colin , Eisenberg Or , Greenberg Jonah , Kapoor Kabir , Liang Zhen , O’Connor Kate , Pacheco-Tallaj Natalia , Wang Yi
Published: October 2019

We extend the theory of hyperbolicity of links in the 3-sphere to tg-hyperbolicity of virtual links, using the fact that the theory of virtual links can be translated into the theory of links living in closed orientable thickened surfaces. When the boundary surfaces are taken to be totally geodesic, we obtain a tg-hyperbolic structure with a unique associated volume. We prove that all virtual alternating links are tg-hyperbolic. We further extend tg-hyperbolicity to several classes of non-alternating virtual links. We then consider bounds on volumes of virtual links and include a table for volumes of the 116 nontrivial virtual knots of four or fewer crossings, all of which, with the exception of the trefoil knot, turn out to be tg-hyperbolic.
User Perception of Situated Product Recommendations in Augmented Reality
Authors: Huynh Brandon , Ibrahim Adam , Chang Yun Suk , Höllerer Tobias , O’Donovan John
Published: October 2019

Augmented reality (AR) interfaces increasingly utilize artificial intelligence systems to tailor content and experiences to the user. We explore the effects of one such system — a recommender system for online shopping — which allows customers to view personalized product recommendations in the physical spaces where they might be used. We describe results of a [Formula: see text] condition exploratory study in which recommendation quality was varied across three user interface types. Our results highlight potential differences in user perception of the recommended objects in an AR environment. Specifically, users rate product recommendations significantly higher in AR and in a 3D browser interface, and show a significant increase in trust in the recommender system, compared to a web interface with 2D product images. Through semi-structured interviews, we gather participant feedback which suggests AR interfaces perform better due to their ability to view products within the physical context where they will be used.
Information Systems Development with the Help of Petri Nets
Authors: Pokorný Jaroslav , Richta Karel , Richta Tomáš
Published: October 2019

Many present software systems can be developed by a sequence of transformations from the source specification to the final implementation. An interesting question is whether we can support such a sequence of transformations by some formal apparatus that enables to verify succeeding steps of development, and finally also the whole development process. As an example, we use the transformation of a definition of the set of system nodes defined as classical workflow models, and then transform them into a set of Petri nets representing the target system implementation. Such a transformation supports development of software systems, whose specification is based on classical workflow models, but the implementation is based on Petri nets. Each part of the designed system is translated from workflow model into a set of Petri nets, and interpreted by the set of special Petri Nets Virtual Machines (PNVMs) which are installed on all nodes of the system. The method is illustrated on the example of house heating system.
The Paradox Behind the Pattern of Rapid Adaptive Radiation: How Can the Speciation Process Sustain Itself Through an Early Burst?
Authors: Martin Christopher H. , Richards Emilie J.
Published: October 2019

Rapid adaptive radiation poses two distinct questions apart from speciation and adaptation: What happens after one speciation event and how do some lineages continue speciating through a rapid burst? We review major features of rapid radiations and their mismatch with theoretical models and speciation mechanisms. The paradox is that the hallmark rapid burst pattern of adaptive radiation is contradicted by most speciation models, which predict continuously decelerating diversification and niche subdivision. Furthermore, it is unclear if and how speciation-promoting mechanisms such as magic traits, phenotype matching, and physical linkage of coadapted alleles promote rapid bursts of speciation. We review additional mechanisms beyond ecological opportunity to explain rapid radiations: ( a) ancient adaptive alleles and the transporter hypothesis, ( b) sexual signal complexity, ( c) fitness landscape connectivity, ( d) diversity begets diversity, and ( e) plasticity first. We propose new questions and predictions connecting microevolutionary processes to macroevolutionary patterns through the study of rapid radiations.
Using Bagasse and Aluminum Sulfate-Modified Bagasse as Adsorbents for Treatment of Industrial Cutting Fluid Wastewater in Laboratory and Pilot Scales
Authors: Pongtaveekan Natthaporn , Thammajaree Piyapan , Piyamongkala Kowit , Pongstabodee Nattaya , Manguiam Von Louie R.
Published: October 2019

Industrial cutting fluid wastewater (CFW) is considered as hazardous substance due to its detrimental effects to the environment and workers welfare. Treatment of this type of wastewater was sometimes disregarded due to lack of knowledge and resources. However, adsorption, a straightforward approach, was used in this study to address this problem. The feasibility of the bagasse and modified bagasse in the adsorption of CFW was determined. Varying the adsorbent dosage resulted in an increase in the percent adsorption, whereas a decline for the adsorption capacity at equilibrium using a single-stage batch laboratory- and pilot-scale adsorption. The point of zero charge of the bagasse and the modified bagasse was measured to be at pH 5.5 and 2.4, respectively. The experiment also determined that, for a liter of CFW, 10.2 g and 59.2 g of the modified bagasse are required under laboratory- and pilot-scale systems, respectively. Isotherms of Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin were used in order to describe the adsorption process. It was determined that the surface heterogeneity and the pore size contributed to the adsorption of CFW; thus, Freundlich isotherm best fitted the data. Functional groups were verified using FTIR analysis and the heat of combustion, and their proximate analyses were determined. Based on the results under laboratory- and pilot-scale systems, modified bagasse is a viable material for the adsorption of CFW and solid fuel source.
Integrated Sensor Fault Diagnosis and Fault-Tolerant Control for Manipulator
Authors: Hong Bowen , Yao Lina , Gao Zhiwei
Published: October 2019

In this paper, an integrated scheme including fault diagnosis and fault-tolerant controller design is proposed for the manipulator system with the sensor fault. Any constant fault or time-varying fault can be estimated by the fault diagnosis scheme based on the adaptive observer rapidly and accurately, and the designed parameters can be solved by the linear matrix inequality. Using the fault estimation information, a fault-tolerant controller combining the characteristics of the proportional differentiation control and the sliding model control is designed to trace the expected trajectory via the back-stepping method. Finally, the effectiveness of the above scheme is verified by the simulation results.
Impact of Group Asthma Education on Asthma Control and Emergency Room Visits in an Underserved New York Community
Authors: Ali Asghar , Pena Sybil Goday , Huggins Charnicia , Lugo Franklyn , Khaja Misbahuddin , Diaz-Fuentes Gilda
Published: October 2019

Objective. Asthma education programs have been shown to be effective in decreasing health care utilization and improving disease control and management. However, there are few studies evaluating the outcomes of group asthma education. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of an outpatient adult group asthma education program in an inner-city-based hospital caring for an underserved population. Methods. We conducted a pre- and poststudy of all patients with asthma who participated in two structured group asthma education sessions led by a respiratory therapist, clinical pharmacist, and pulmonologist. The study period (January 2016 to April 2018) included the year before group education and the year after education. The primary outcomes were the number of patients requiring emergency room visits and hospital admission. The secondary outcomes included asthma control as assessed by Asthma Control Test scores, use of systemic corticosteroids, and change in test scores postintervention. Results. Eighty-eight patients received group education during the study period; 82 attended 2/2 sessions, and 6 attended 1/2 sessions. The study population was largely Hispanic (73%) or African American (25%) and had a mean age of 58 years. Most had moderate (57%) or severe (25%) persistent asthma. Significantly, fewer patients required emergency room visits in the postintervention period than in the preintervention period (20 visits vs. 42 visits, p=0.0002). Group education was also associated with increased asthma control (p=0.0043), decreased use of systemic corticosteroids (p=0.0005), and higher postintervention test scores (p=0.0001). Conclusions. Group asthma education provided by a multidisciplinary team in an inner-city hospital clinic caring for underserved and minority populations is feasible and may decrease utilization of health care resources when patients are educated and empowered to participate in their asthma management.
Pulmonary Infections Caused by Emerging Pathogenic Species of Nocardia
Authors: Manoharan Harish , Selvarajan Sribal , Sridharan K. S. , Sekar Uma
Published: October 2019

Pulmonary infections are the most common clinical manifestations of Nocardia species. There is an increase in cases of nocardial infections occurring worldwide attributable to the increase in the immunosuppressed population. The availability of molecular methods has aided the detection of more number of cases as well as unusual species. Still, it remains one of the most underdiagnosed pathogens. Recognition of drug resistance in this organism has now mandated early and precise identification with speciation for effective treatment and management. Nocardial species identity can predict antimicrobial susceptibility and guide clinical management. Here, we report two cases of pulmonary nocardiosis caused by unusual species of Nocardia, namely, N. cyriacigeorgica and N. beijingensis identified by 16S rRNA gene-based sequencing. These cases are being reported for their rarity.
Study on Rules of Fault Stress Variation Based on Microseismic Monitoring and Numerical Simulation at the Working Face in the Dongjiahe Coal Mine
Authors: Ma Ke , Yuan Fuzhen , Zhuang Duanyang , Li Quansheng , Wang Zhenwei
Published: October 2019

Microseismic monitoring technology was used to study the real‐time evolution of rock mass damage generated by a working face as it approached a fault in Dongjiahe Coal Mine. The influence of vertical zoning of overlying strata on damage at the fault was analyzed. Numerical simulation using finite element method based on meso‐statistical damage theory was used to investigate the nonlinear and nonuniform failure behaviour of the rock mass near the fault. The response of the fault stress to excavation activity and the rule of fault activation were examined. The results show that the fault damage has segmental characteristics. Microcracks are first generated at the fractured zone that is divided into lower, middle, and upper sections, located 30∼70 m, 120∼180 m, and 230∼280 m above the coal seam, respectively. There was also a segmentation phenomenon in the stress response of fault. The risk of fault activation was evaluated by using the ratio of shear stress to the maximum principal stress. When the working face was 260 m and 140 m away from the fault, the activation risk at the upper‐middle and lower sections began to increase, respectively. When the fault was within 60 m, the risk of fault activation was highest.
Histoplasmosis-Associated Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Jabr Ra’ed , El Atrouni Wissam , Male Heather J. , Hammoud Kassem A.
Published: October 2019

Background. Histoplasmosis is an endemic fungal disease with diverse clinical presentations. Histoplasmosis-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare disorder with limited data regarding treatment and outcome. We described the clinical features, treatment, and outcomes of five patients in our institution with histoplasmosis-associated HLH. This review also summarizes the current literature about presentation, treatment, and outcome of this infection-related HLH entity.Methods. We searched the electronic medical records for patients with histoplasmosis-associated HLH at our institution from 1/1/2006 to 9/30/2017. Diagnosis of HLH was confirmed by chart review using the HLH-04 criteria. We also searched the current literature for case reports and case series.Results. Five cases of histoplasmosis-associated HLH were included from our institution. All five patients were diagnosed after 2010. The literature review yielded 60 additional cases of histoplasmosis-associated HLH. The most common underlying condition was HIV in 61% of cases. The majority of histoplasmosis patients (81%) were treated with amphotericin B formulations. Documented specific treatments for HLH were as follows: nine patients received steroids only, six patients received intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) only, three patients received dexamethasone and etoposide, two patients received etoposide, dexamethasone, and cyclosporine, two patients received steroids and IVIG, and one patient received Anakinra and IVIG. The inpatient case fatality rate was 31% with most of the deaths occurring within two weeks of hospital admission.Conclusions. Histoplasmosis-associated HLH among adults is an uncommon but serious complication with high associated mortality. Early antifungal therapy with a lipid formulation amphotericin B is critical. The initiation of immunosuppressive therapy with regimens like HLH-04 in this disease entity should be individualized.
Recent Medico-Legal Developments on the Issue of Epilepsy and Driver’s License Requirements in the Italian and European Legislation
Authors: Mazzariol Brenno , Pastorini Antonella , di Luca Alessandro , di Luca Natale Mario
Published: October 2019

Epilepsy is a condition that comprises a group of neurological disorders characterized by seizures. Forms of epilepsy that produce abrupt bouts that cause lapses in consciousness may pose a major road safety problem for drivers who, while going through a seizure, could seriously harm themselves as well as others. A fundamental strategy for the purpose of reducing the risk of car accidents caused by epileptic drivers is constituted by prevention, in addition to adequate pharmacological therapies. In that respect, forensic medicine plays a pivotal role, since it deals with the set of requirements that must be met by those who have been diagnosed with epilepsy in order to get a driver’s license, and with the obligation to signal such individuals to the national Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (in Italian: Motorizzazione Civile). In that regard, the Italian legislative framework is partly hazy in some respects, which the authors have set out to analyze herein, taking into account recently issued European norms. The aim of this paper was to better understand the current Italian legislation in the matter of epilepsy and driver’s license requirements, especially regarding the medical criteria that must be met in order to obtain the driving license. The importance of those criteria is underlined by the fact that they directly influence (and are influenced by) the safety for the drivers and for the persons involved in car accidents. Thus, we can consider the issue not only strictly of medico-legal relevance but also from the standpoint of primary prevention. The analysis was conducted by reviewing the most recent documents of medico-legal relevance, in the light of European Union legislation. The authors have ultimately stressed the need for clearer and straightforward regulations, given that professional liability may arise whenever a driver’s license is issued, in disregard of legal norms, to an individual who then causes a road accident.
Food-Insecure Women Eat a Less Diverse Diet in a More Temporally Variable Way: Evidence from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2013-4
Authors: Nettle Daniel , Bateson Melissa
Published: October 2019

Food insecurity is associated with high body weight amongst women, but not men, in high-income countries. Previous research using food recalls suggests that the total energy intake of food-insecure women is not elevated, though macronutrient composition may differ from that of food-secure women. There is limited evidence on temporal patterns of food consumption. Here, we used food recalls from women in the 2013-4 cycle of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, n = 2798) to characterise temporal patterns of food consumption in relation to food insecurity. Compared to the food-secure, food-insecure women had more variable time gaps between eating; ate a smaller and less variable number of distinct foods at a time; were more variable from day to day in their time of first consumption; were more variable from day to day in the number of times they ate; and consumed relatively more carbohydrate, less protein, and less fibre. However, their overall energy intake was no higher. Food-insecure women had higher BMIs (2.25 kg/m2), and around 15% of the BMI difference between food-insecure and food-secure women was accounted for by their more variable time gaps between eating, their lower diversity of foods, and their lower fibre consumption. Food insecurity is associated with measureable differences in the temporal pattern of food consumption, and some of these differences shed light on how food-insecure women come to have higher body weights.
High Recurrence Rate of Myxofibrosarcoma: The Effect of Radiotherapy Is Not Clear
Authors: Teurneau Hjalmar , Engellau Jacob , Ghanei Iman , Vult von Steyern Fredrik , Styring Emelie
Published: October 2019

Background. Myxofibrosarcoma (MFS) is one of the more common types of soft-tissue sarcoma (STS) in patients over 60 years of age. Local recurrence (LR) rates have been reported to be higher compared to other STS types. Patients and Methods. Using a population-based series from the southern Sweden health care region, 56 consecutive patients with MFS and localized disease at diagnosis were analyzed with respect to LR and distant metastases after surgery ± adjuvant treatment. Results. The overall local recurrence (n = 15) and metastasis (n = 13) rates were 27% and 21%, respectively; 6 patients had both. Surgical margin was the only statistically significant prognostic factor for LR. Patients operated with a marginal margin had an HR of 4.5 (CI 1.3–15.1, p=0.02) and those operated with an intralesional margin 9.4 (CI 2.0–43.5, p=0.004) compared to those operated with a wide surgical margin. There was no difference in the LR rate depending on radiotherapy or not, although the latter group had smaller and more superficial tumors. 23 patients received radiotherapy, 9 of whom developed LR, all within the irradiated field. A tumor size >5 cm and intralesional surgical margin were shown to be risk factors for distant metastases. Conclusions. The rate of LR for patients with myxofibrosarcoma was high. The impact of RT on local tumor control was unclear. The surgical margin was important for both local and distant tumor control. Large tumor size was a risk factor for distant metastasis.
Geometric Evaluation of Mobile-Phone Camera Images for 3D Information
Authors: Yilmazturk Ferruh , Gurbak Ali Ersin
Published: October 2019

This study aimed to investigate the usability of smartphone camera images in 3D positioning applications with photogrammetric techniques. These investigations were performed in two stages. In the first stage, the cameras of five smartphones and a digital compact camera were calibrated using a calibration reference object, with signalized points having known three-dimensional (3D) coordinates. In the calibration process, the self-calibration bundle adjustment method was used. To evaluate the metric performances, the geometric accuracy tests in the image and object spaces were performed and the test results were compared. In the second stage, a 3D mesh model of a historical cylindrical structure (height = 8 m and diameter = 5 m) was generated using Structure-from-Motion and Multi-View-Stereo (SfM-MVS) approach. The images were captured using the Galaxy S4 smartphone camera, which produced the best result in the geometric accuracy tests for smartphone cameras. The accuracy tests on the generated 3D model were also applied in order to examine 3D object reconstruction capabilities of imaging with this device. The results demonstrated that smartphone cameras can be easily used as image acquisition tools for multiple photogrammetric applications.
An Ontology-Based Artificial Intelligence Model for Medicine Side-Effect Prediction: Taking Traditional Chinese Medicine as an Example
Authors: Yao Yuanzhe , Wang Zeheng , Li Liang , Lu Kun , Liu Runyu , Liu Zhiyuan , Yan Jing
Published: October 2019

In this work, an ontology-based model for AI-assisted medicine side-effect (SE) prediction is developed, where three main components, including the drug model, the treatment model, and the AI-assisted prediction model, of the proposed model are presented. To validate the proposed model, an ANN structure is established and trained by two hundred forty-two TCM prescriptions. These data are gathered and classified from the most famous ancient TCM book, and more than one thousand SE reports, in which two ontology-based attributions, hot and cold, are introduced to evaluate whether the prescription will cause SE or not. The results preliminarily reveal that it is a relationship between the ontology-based attributions and the corresponding predicted indicator that can be learnt by AI for predicting the SE, which suggests the proposed model has a potential in AI-assisted SE prediction. However, it should be noted that the proposed model highly depends on the sufficient clinic data, and hereby, much deeper exploration is important for enhancing the accuracy of the prediction.