bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treating Epistemic Uncertainty Using Bootstrapping Selection of Input Distribution Model for Confidence-Based Reliability Assessment
Authors: Moon Min-Yeong , Choi K. K. , Gaul Nicholas , Lamb David
Published: December 2018

Accurately predicting the reliability of a physical system under aleatory uncertainty requires a very large number of physical output testing. Alternatively, a simulation-based method can be used, but it would involve epistemic uncertainties due to imperfections in input distribution models, simulation models, and surrogate models, as well as a limited number of output testing due to cost. Thus, the estimated output distributions and their corresponding reliabilities would become uncertain. One way to treat epistemic uncertainty is to use a hierarchical Bayesian approach; however, this could result in an overly conservative reliability by integrating possible candidates of input distribution. In this paper, a new confidence-based reliability assessment method that reduces unnecessary conservativeness is developed. The epistemic uncertainty induced by a limited number of input data is treated by approximating an input distribution model using a bootstrap method. Two engineering examples and one mathematical example are used to demonstrate that the proposed method (1) provides less conservative reliability than the hierarchical Bayesian analysis, yet (2) predicts the reliability of a physical system that satisfies the user-specified target confidence level, and (3) shows convergence behavior of reliability estimation as numbers of input and output test data increase.
Component-Oriented Reassembly in Remanufacturing Systems: Managing Uncertainty and Satisfying Customer Needs
Authors: Wang Yue , Mendis Gamini P. , Peng Shitong , Sutherland John W.
Published: December 2018

Remanufacturing has recently received significant interest due to its environmental and economic benefits. Traditionally, the reassembly processes in remanufacturing systems are managed using a product-oriented model. When a product is returned and disassembled, the used components may be processed incorrectly, and the quality of the remanufactured products may not meet customer needs. To solve these problems, a component-oriented reassembly model is proposed. In this model, returned components are inspected and assigned scores according to their quality/function and categorized in a reassembly inventory. Based on the reassembly inventory, components are paired under the control of a reassembly strategy, and these pairs are then assembled into reassembly chains. Each chain represents a product. To evaluate the performance of different reassembly strategies under uncertain conditions, we describe the reassembly problem using an agent-environment system. The platform is modeled as a Markov decision process (MDP), and a reassembly score iteration algorithm (RSIA) is developed to identify the optimal reassembly strategy. The effectiveness of the method is demonstrated via a case study using the reassembly process of diesel engines. The results of the case study show that the component-oriented reassembly model can improve the performance of the reassembly system by 40%. A sensitivity analysis is carried out to evaluate the relationship between the parameters and the performance of the reassembly system. The component-oriented model can reassemble products to meet a larger variety of customer needs, while simultaneously producing better remanufactured products.
On the Enhancement of Heat Transfer and Reduction of Entropy Generation by Asymmetric Slip in Pressure-Driven Non-Newtonian Microflows
Authors: Anand Vishal , Christov Ivan C.
Published: December 2018

We study hydrodynamics, heat transfer, and entropy generation in pressure-driven microchannel flow of a power-law fluid. Specifically, we address the effect of asymmetry in the slip boundary condition at the channel walls. Constant, uniform but unequal heat fluxes are imposed at the walls in this thermally developed flow. The effect of asymmetric slip on the velocity profile, on the wall shear stress, on the temperature distribution, on the Bejan number profiles, and on the average entropy generation and the Nusselt number are established through the numerical evaluation of exact analytical expressions derived. Specifically, due to asymmetric slip, the fluid momentum flux and thermal energy flux are enhanced along the wall with larger slip, which, in turn, shifts the location of the velocity's maximum to an off-center location closer to the said wall. Asymmetric slip is also shown to redistribute the peaks and plateaus of the Bejan number profile across the microchannel, showing a sharp transition between entropy generation due to heat transfer and due to fluid flow at an off-center-line location. In the presence of asymmetric slip, the difference in the imposed heat fluxes leads to starkly different Bejan number profiles depending on which wall is hotter, and whether the fluid is shear-thinning or shear-thickening. Overall, slip is shown to promote uniformity in both the velocity field and the temperature field, thereby reducing irreversibility in this flow.
Linearization of Nongray Radiation Exchange: The Internal Fractional Function Reconsidered
Authors: Lienhard V John H.
Published: December 2018

The radiation fractional function is the fraction of black body radiation below a given value of λT. Edwards and others have distinguished between the traditional, or “external,” radiation fractional function and an “internal” radiation fractional function. The latter is used for linearization of net radiation from a nongray surface when the temperature of an effectively black environment is not far from the surface's temperature, without calculating a separate total absorptivity. This paper examines the analytical approximation involved in the internal fractional function, with results given in terms of the incomplete zeta function. A rigorous upper bound on the difference between the external and internal emissivity is obtained. Calculations using the internal emissivity are compared to exact calculations for several models and materials. A new approach to calculating the internal emissivity is developed, yielding vastly improved accuracy over a wide range of temperature differences. The internal fractional function should be used for evaluating radiation thermal resistances, in particular.
Effects of oxygen-inserted layers and oxide capping layer on dopant activation for the formation of ultrashallow p-n junctions in silicon
Authors: Zhang Xi , Connelly Daniel , Takeuchi Hideki , Hytha Marek , Mears Robert J. , Rubin Leonard M. , Liu Tsu-Jae King
Published: December 2018

The effects of oxygen-inserted (OI) layers and a low-temperature-deposited oxide (LTO) capping layer on rapid thermal activation of ultrashallow implanted boron, phosphorus, and arsenic atoms in silicon (Si) are investigated using sheet resistance (Rsh) measurements, secondary ion mass spectrometry analyses, and technology computer-aided design simulations. The experimental findings suggest that the electrical activation of dopants in Si is not significantly affected by the presence of OI layers so that they can be effective for achieving lower Rsh along with shallower junction depth, thanks to reduced dopant loss and diffusion during thermal annealing. On the other hand, an LTO capping layer is found to result in larger Rsh associated with the lower peak active dopant concentration as a result of dopant segregation and/or reduced uphill diffusion. The presence of OI layers is found to mitigate these detrimental effects.
A mathematical model of bowel sound generation
Authors: Du Xuhao , Allwood Gary , Webberley K. Mary , Osseiran Adam , Wan Wenchao , Volikova Antonina , Marshall Barry J.
Published: December 2018

Humans have been interested in bowel sounds and wondered about their origins for millennia. To better understand the phenomenon, a mathematical model of bowel sound generation was developed based on a spring-mass-damping system. This is similar to vocal folds models for speech. The bowel sound model has four parameters that link to bowel activities: the individual wave component, pressure index, component quantity, and component interval time. All types of bowel sound documented previously can be modelled by combining different values for these parameters. Further, a 2500 ms bowel sound incorporating all the common types was simulated to present the model's accuracy.
Food Provision at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games: Expert Review and Future Recommendations
Authors: Pelly Fiona , Parker Simmons Susie
Published: December 2018

Food provision at the Olympic Games has evolved considerably since the advent of a unified menu, but there are challenges in existing catering for the expanding cultural and sporting diversity. Continuity between events is difficult due to the changes in location, organizing committees, caterers, athletes, support staff, and volunteers. Independent review of the food provision by sports nutrition experts has been implemented to help establish some consistency between Olympic Games. The aim of this study was to compare an expert desk top and onsite review of the food provided at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, and compare this with a similar review at the London 2012 Olympic Games. A previously developed survey was completed by sports nutrition experts 6 months prior to the opening of the Rio 2016 Olympic village and during the Olympic Games in September 2016. Questions about the food provision included both scaled and open-ended responses. There was a significantly lower rating for menu variety onsite (p = .025) versus the desk top review. All aspects of the menu and the ability to cater for specific situations rated as average or less. A significantly (p = .007) lower overall median rating was obtained for Rio (five out of 10) compared with London (eight out of 10), with hot gluten-free items rated as poor at both events. Comments from experts related to lack of variety, sports and recovery foods, absence of signage, and inaccurate nutrition labeling. An improved process for expert nutrition review at these events is warranted.
Hyperhydration-Induced Decrease in Urinary Luteinizing Hormone Concentrations of Male Athletes in Doping Control Analysis
Authors: Athanasiadou Ioanna , Voss Sven Christian , El Saftawy Wesal , Al-Jaber Hind , Dbes Najib , Al-Yazedi Sameera , Samsam Waseem , Mohamed-Ali Vidya , Alsayrafi Mohammed , Valsami Georgia , Georgakopoulos Costas
Published: December 2018

Low urinary luteinizing hormone (LH) values have been discussed as a marker to detect steroid abuse. However, suppressed LH concentrations related to highly diluted urine samples could be a misleading indication of anabolic steroid abuse. One aim of the present study was to examine the effect of hyperhydration on the interpretation of LH findings during doping control analysis and to investigate different possibilities to correct volume-related changes in urinary LH concentrations. Seven healthy, physically active, nonsmoking White males were examined for a 72-hr period, using water and a commercial sports drink as hyperhydration agents (20 ml/kg body weight). Urine samples were collected and analyzed according to the World Anti-Doping Agency’s technical documents. Baseline urinary LH concentrations, expressed as the mean ± SD for each individual, were within the acceptable physiological range (7.11 ± 5.42 IU/L). A comparison of the measured LH values for both hyperhydration phases (Phase A: 4.24 ± 5.60 IU/L and Phase B: 4.74 ± 4.72 IU/L) with the baseline (“normal”) values showed significant differences (Phase A: p < .001 and Phase B: p < .001), suggesting the clear effect of urine dilution due to hyperhydration. However, an adjustment of urinary LH concentrations by specific gravity based on a reference value of 1.020 seems to adequately correct the hyperhydration-induced decrease on the LH levels.
Ingesting a 12% Carbohydrate-Electrolyte Beverage Before Each Half of a Soccer Match Simulation Facilitates Retention of Passing Performance and Improves High-Intensity Running Capacity in Academy Players
Authors: Rodriguez-Giustiniani Paola , Rollo Ian , Witard Oliver C. , Galloway Stuart D. R.
Published: December 2018

This study investigated the influence of ingesting a 12% carbohydrate plus electrolyte (CHO-E) solution providing 60 g of carbohydrate before each half of a 90-min soccer match simulation (SMS) protocol on skill performance, sprint speed, and high-intensity running capacity. Eighteen elite academy (age: 18 ± 2 years) soccer players ingested two 250-ml doses (pre-exercise and at halftime) of a 12% CHO-E solution or electrolyte placebo administered in a double-blind randomized cross-over design. During an indoor (artificial grass pitch) SMS, dribbling, passing, and sprint performance were assessed, and blood was drawn for glucose and lactate analysis. High-intensity running capacity was assessed following the SMS. Dribbling speed/accuracy and sprint speed remained unchanged throughout the SMS. Conversely, passing accuracy for both dominant (mean percentage difference [95% confidence interval, CI]: 9 [3, 15]) and nondominant (mean percentage difference [95% CI]: 13 [6, 20]) feet was better maintained during the SMS on CHO-E (p < .05), with passing speed better maintained in the nondominant foot (mean percentage difference [95% CI]: 5.3 [0.7, 9.9], p = .032). High-intensity running capacity was greater in CHO-E versus placebo (mean percentage difference [95% CI]: 13 [6, 20], p = .010). Capillary blood glucose concentration was higher in CHO-E than placebo at halftime (CHO-E: 5.8 ± 0.5 mM vs. placebo: 4.1 ± 0.4 mM, p = .001) and following the high-intensity running capacity test (CHO-E: 4.9 ± 0.4 mM vs. placebo: 4.3 ± 0.4 mM, p = .001). Ingesting a 12% CHO-E solution before each half of a match can aid in the maintenance of soccer-specific skill performance, particularly on the nondominant foot, and improves subsequent high-intensity running capacity.
Mobile Health Interventions for Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior, and Sleep in Adults Aged 50 Years and Older: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Elavsky Steriani , Knapova Lenka , Klocek Adam , Smahel David
Published: December 2018

We provide a systematic review of interventions utilizing mobile technology to alter physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep among adults aged 50 years and older. A systematic search identified 52 relevant articles (randomized control trial [RCT], quasi-experimental, pre/post single-group design). Of 50 trials assessing physical activity, 17 out of 29 RCTs and 13 out of 21 trials assessed for pre/post changes only supported the effectiveness of mobile interventions to improve physical activity, and 9 studies (five out of 10 RCTs and all four pre/post studies) out of 14 reduced sedentary behavior. Only two of five interventions improved sleep (one out of two RCTs and one out of three pre/post studies). Text messaging was the most frequently used intervention (60% of all studies) but was usually used in combination with other components (79% of hybrid interventions included SMS, plus either web or app components). Although more high-quality RCTs are needed, there is evidence supporting the effectiveness of mHealth approaches in those aged 50 years and older.
The Effect of Structured Exercise on Sleep During the Corresponding Night Among Older Women in an Exercise Program
Authors: Breneman Charity B. , Kline Christopher E. , West Delia , Sui Xuemei , Wang Xuewen
Published: December 2018

This study investigated the acute effect of exercise on sleep outcomes among healthy older women by comparing days with structured exercise versus days without structured exercise during 4 months of exercise training. Participants (n = 51) in this study had wrist-worn actigraphic sleep data available following at least 3 days with structured exercise and 3 days without structured exercise at mid-intervention and at the end of intervention. The exercise intervention was treadmill walking. Multilevel models were used to examine whether structured exercise impacted sleep outcomes during the corresponding night. Overall, 1,362 nights of data were included in the analyses. In unadjusted and adjusted models, bedtimes were significantly earlier on evenings following an acute bout of structured exercise than on evenings without structured exercise. No other sleep parameters differed between exercise and nonexercise days. Understanding the effects of exercise on sleep in this understudied population may help to improve their overall sleep quality.
Are Walking Treatment Beliefs and Illness Perceptions Associated With Walking Intention and 6-Min Walk Distance in People With Intermittent Claudication? A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Galea Holmes Melissa N. , Weinman John A. , Bearne Lindsay M.
Published: December 2018

Intermittent claudication is debilitating leg pain affecting older people with peripheral arterial disease, which is improved by regular walking. This study evaluated associations between psychosocial variables and 6-min walk distance (6MWD) to identify factors that motivate walking. A total of 142 individuals with intermittent claudication (116 males; Mage = 66.9 years [SD = 10.2]) completed cross-sectional assessments of sociodemographics, walking treatment beliefs and intention (Theory of Planned Behaviour), illness perceptions (Revised Illness Perceptions Questionnaire), and 6MWD. Multiple linear regression was used to evaluate relationships among psychosocial variables (treatment beliefs and illness perceptions) and outcomes (walking intention and 6MWD). Theory of planned behavior constructs were associated with intention (R = .72, p < .001) and 6MWD (R = .08, p < .001). Illness perceptions were associated with 6MWD only (R = .27, p < .001). Intention (β = 0.26), treatment control (β = −0.27), personal control (β = 0.32), coherence (β = 0.18), and risk factor attributions (β = 0.22; all ps < .05) were independently associated with 6MWD. Treatment beliefs and illness perceptions associated with intention and 6MWD in people with intermittent claudication are potential intervention targets.
Improvements in Phase Angle Are Related With Muscle Quality Index After Resistance Training in Older Women
Authors: Nunes João Pedro , Ribeiro Alex S. , Silva Analiza M. , Schoenfeld Brad J. , dos Santos Leandro , Cunha Paolo M. , Nascimento Matheus A. , Tomeleri Crisieli M. , Nabuco Hellen C.G. , Antunes Melissa , Cyrino Letícia T. , Cyrino Edilson S.
Published: December 2018

The aim of this study was to analyze the association between muscle quality index (MQI) and phase angle (PhA) after a program of progressive resistance training (RT) in older women. Sixty-six older women with previous RT experience (68.8 ± 4.6 years, 156.6 ± 5.3 cm, 66.0 ± 13.0 kg, and 26.7 ± 4.6 kg/m2) underwent 12 weeks of RT (3 ×/week, eight exercises, and 10–15 repetition maximum). Anthropometry, muscular strength (one-repetition maximum tests), and body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and spectral bioimpedance) were measured pre- and posttraining. There were observed significant increases for PhA, MQI, muscular strength, muscle mass, and reactance, whereas no significant changes in body fat and resistance were found. A significant correlation was observed between the RT-induced relative changes in PhA and MQI (r = .620). We conclude that improvements in MQI induced by RT are associated with increases in PhA. Therefore, PhA may be a valid tool to track changes in MQI after 12 weeks of RT in older women.
Population Pharmacokinetics and Dosing Optimization of Amoxicillin in Neonates and Young Infants
Authors: Tang Bo-Hao , Wu Yue-E , Kou Chen , Qi Yu-Jie , Qi Hui , Xu Hai-Yan , Leroux Stephanie , Huang Xin , Zhou Yue , Zheng Yi , Jacqz-Aigrain Evelyne , Shen A-Dong , Zhao Wei
Published: December 2018

Amoxicillin is widely used to treat bacterial infections in neonates. However, considerable intercenter variability in dosage regimens of antibiotics exists in clinical practice.
Peptidoglycan Recognition Protein 4 Suppresses Early Inflammatory Responses to
Bordetella pertussis
and Contributes to Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Receptor Agonist-Mediated Disease Attenuation
Authors: Skerry Ciaran , Goldman William E. , Carbonetti Nicholas H.
Published: December 2018

Incidence of whooping cough (pertussis), a bacterial infection of the respiratory tract caused by the bacterium
Bordetella pertussis
, has reached levels not seen since the 1950s. Antibiotics fail to improve the course of disease unless administered early in infection.
Structural Constraints at the Trimer Apex Stabilize the HIV-1 Envelope in a Closed, Antibody-Protected Conformation
Authors: Guzzo Christina , Zhang Peng , Liu Qingbo , Kwon Alice L. , Uddin Ferzan , Wells Alexandra I. , Schmeisser Hana , Cimbro Raffaello , Huang Jinghe , Doria-Rose Nicole , Schmidt Stephen D. , Dolan Michael A. , Connors Mark , Mascola John R. , Lusso Paolo
Published: December 2018

The extraordinary ability of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) to evade host immunity represents a major obstacle to the development of a protective vaccine. Thus, elucidating the mechanisms whereby HIV-1 protects its external envelope (Env), which is the sole target of virus-neutralizing antibodies, is an essential step toward vaccine design. We identified a key structural element that maintains the HIV-1 Env trimer in a closed, antibody-resistant conformation. A major role is played by two conserved tyrosines at the apex of the Env spike, whose mutation causes a global opening of the trimer structure, exposing multiple concealed targets for neutralizing antibodies. We also found that HIV-infected individuals produce very large amounts of antibodies that neutralize the open Env form; however, the bulk of these antibodies are unable to penetrate the tight defensive shield of the native virus. This work may help to devise new strategies to overcome the viral defensive mechanisms and facilitate the development of an effective HIV-1 vaccine.
Cryptococcus neoformans, Unlike Candida albicans, Forms Aneuploid Clones Directly from Uninucleated Cells under Fluconazole Stress
Authors: Chang Yun C. , Khanal Lamichhane Ami , Kwon-Chung Kyung J.
Published: December 2018

The gold standard of cryptococcosis treatment consists of induction therapy with amphotericin B followed by lifelong maintenance therapy with fluconazole (FLC). However, prolonged exposure to FLC induces the emergence of clones heteroresistant to azoles. All the heteroresistant clones thus far analyzed have been shown to be aneuploids, but how the aneuploid is formed remains unclear. Aneuploidy in fungi and other eukaryotic cells is known to result most commonly from chromosome missegregation during cell division due to defects in any one of the multiple components and processes that are required for the formation of two genetically identical daughter cells. Although formation of multinucleated cells has been observed in cells exposed to FLC, evidence for the emergence of drug-resistant aneuploid populations directly from such cells has been lacking. We show the evidence that the aneuploid in fluconazole-heteroresistant clones of
Cryptococcus neoformans
is derived neither from multinucleated cells nor from chromosome missegregation.
Deciphering the Evolution of Cephalosporin Resistance to Ceftolozane-Tazobactam in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Barnes Melissa D. , Taracila Magdalena A. , Rutter Joseph D. , Bethel Christopher R. , Galdadas Ioannis , Hujer Andrea M. , Caselli Emilia , Prati Fabio , Dekker John P. , Papp-Wallace Krisztina M. , Haider Shozeb , Bonomo Robert A.
Published: December 2018

The presence of β-lactamases (e.g., PDC-3) that have naturally evolved and acquired the ability to break down β-lactam antibiotics (e.g., ceftazidime and ceftolozane) leads to highly resistant and potentially lethal
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
infections. We show that wild-type PDC-3 β-lactamase forms an acyl enzyme complex with ceftazidime, but it cannot accommodate the structurally similar ceftolozane that has a longer R2 side chain with increased basicity. A single amino acid substitution from a glutamate to a lysine at position 221 in PDC-3 (E221K) causes the tyrosine residue at 223 to adopt a new position poised for efficient hydrolysis of both cephalosporins. The importance of the mechanism of action of the E221K variant, in particular, is underscored by its evolutionary recurrences in multiple bacterial species. Understanding the biochemical and molecular basis for resistance is key to designing effective therapies and developing new β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor combinations.
The Monothiol Glutaredoxin Grx4 Regulates Iron Homeostasis and Virulence in Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Attarian Rodgoun , Hu Guanggan , Sánchez-León Eddy , Caza Mélissa , Croll Daniel , Do Eunsoo , Bach Horacio , Missall Tricia , Lodge Jennifer , Jung Won Hee , Kronstad James W.
Published: December 2018

Fungal pathogens cause life-threatening diseases in humans, particularly in immunocompromised people, and there is a tremendous need for a greater understanding of pathogenesis to support new therapies. One prominent fungal pathogen,
Cryptococcus neoformans
, causes meningitis in people suffering from HIV/AIDS. In the present study, we focused on characterizing mechanisms by which
C. neoformans
senses iron availability because iron is both a signal and a key nutrient for proliferation of the pathogen in vertebrate hosts. Specifically, we characterized a monothiol glutaredoxin protein, Grx4, that functions as a sensor of iron availability and interacts with regulatory factors to control the ability of
C. neoformans
to cause disease. Grx4 regulates key virulence factors, and a mutant is unable to cause disease in a mouse model of cryptococcosis. Overall, our study provides new insights into nutrient sensing and the role of iron in the pathogenesis of fungal diseases.
Using Core Genome Alignments To Assign Bacterial Species
Authors: Chung Matthew , Munro James B. , Tettelin Hervé , Dunning Hotopp Julie C.
Published: December 2018

With the increasing availability of genome sequences, we sought to develop and apply a robust, portable, and high-resolution method for the assignment of genera and species designations that can recapitulate classically defined taxonomic designations. Using cutoffs derived from the lengths and sequence identities of core genome alignments along with phylogenetic analyses, we sought to evaluate or reevaluate genus- and species-level designations for diverse taxa, with an emphasis on the order
Rickettsiales
, where species designations have been applied inconsistently. Our results indicate that the
Rickettsia
genus has an overabundance of species designations, that the current
Anaplasma
and
Neorickettsia
genus designations are both too broad and need to be divided, and that there are clear demarcations of
Wolbachia
species that do not align precisely with the existing supergroup designations.
Application of real-time contrast-enhanced ultrasound in differential diagnosis of liver malignancies
Authors: Li Hongling , Li Jin
Published: December 2018

The objective of this study was to evaluate the value of real-time contrast-enhanced ultrasound in differential diagnosis of malignant liver tumors. Sixty patients pathologically diagnosed with liver cancer from May 2016 to May 2017 were selected as the subjects. All patients received ultrasonic diagnosis followed by the observation on dynamic contrast enhancement of the image and the analysis on perfusion characteristics and difference in contrast-enhanced ultrasound results in patients with different types of liver cancer. The signal during the arterial phase of 21 patients with well-differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma increased, including 12 cases of slow withdrawal of portal venous phase. The relative height of artery of 30 patients with middle-low differentiation of hepatocellular carcinoma increased along with the speed at which the contrast media was washed out at the end of the portal phase. In 9 patients with intrahepatic bile duct cancer, the enhancement of the arteries was slightly increased in the periphery of the tumor and low enhancement was found in the portal venous phase. There were some differences in the timing and the intensity of the enhancement of the ultrasound signals with 3 different types of diseases (P < 0.05). There are obvious differences in real-time contrast-enhanced ultrasound features of patients with different types of malignant liver tumor, which may provide references for clinical diagnosis.
Constructing a polynomial whose nodal set is any prescribed knot or link
Authors: Bode Benjamin , Dennis Mark R.
Published: December 2018

We describe an algorithm that for every given braid [Formula: see text] explicitly constructs a function [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] is a polynomial in [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] and the zero level set of [Formula: see text] on the unit three-sphere is the closure of [Formula: see text]. The nature of this construction allows us to prove certain properties of the constructed polynomials. In particular, we provide bounds on the degree of [Formula: see text] in terms of braid data.
The Neuwirth Conjecture for a family of satellite knots
Authors: Eudave-Muñoz Mario , Frías José
Published: December 2018

Let [Formula: see text] be a nontrivial knot in [Formula: see text]. It was conjectured that there exists a Neuwirth surface for [Formula: see text]. That is, a closed surface in [Formula: see text] containing the knot [Formula: see text] as a nonseparating curve and such that every compressing disk for the surface intersects the knot in at least two points. We provide explicit constructions of Neuwirth surfaces for a family of satellite knots, which do not depend on the existence of nonorientable algebraically incompressible and [Formula: see text]-incompressible spanning surfaces for these knots.
DIVISIBLE SANDPILE ON SIERPINSKI GASKET GRAPHS
Authors: HUSS WILFRIED , SAVA-HUSS ECATERINA
Published: December 2018

The divisible sandpile model is a growth model on graphs that was introduced by Levine and Peres [Strong spherical asymptotics for rotor-router aggregation and the divisible sandpile, Potential Anal. 30(1) (2009) 1–27] as a tool to study internal diffusion limited aggregation. In this work, we investigate the shape of the divisible sandpile model on the graphical Sierpinski gasket [Formula: see text]. We show that the shape is a ball in the graph metric of [Formula: see text]. Moreover, we give an exact representation of the odometer function of the divisible sandpile.
Developing an Outsourcing Partner Selection Model for Process with Two-Sided Specification Using Capability Index and Manufacturing Time Performance Index
Authors: Chen Kuen-Suan , Chang Tsang-Chuan , Lin Yun-Tsan
Published: December 2018

In the face of fierce global competition, firms are outsourcing important but nonessential tasks to external professional companies. Corporations are also turning from competitive business models to cooperative strategic partnerships in hopes of swiftly responding to consumer needs and enhancing overall efficiency and industry competitiveness. This research developed an outsourcing partner selection model in hopes of helping firms select better outsourcing partners for long-term collaborations. Process quality and manufacturing time are vital when evaluating outsourcing partner. We therefore used process capability index [Formula: see text] and manufacturing time performance index [Formula: see text] in the proposed model. Sample data from random samples are needed to calculate the point estimates of indices, however, it is impossible to obtain a sample with a structure completely identical to that of the population, which means that sampling generates unavoidable sampling errors. The reliability of point estimates are also uncertain, which inevitably leads to misjudgment in some cases. Thus, to reduce estimate errors and increase assessment reliability, we calculated the [Formula: see text]% confidence intervals of the indices [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], then constructed the joint confidence region of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] to develop an outsourcing partner selection model that will help firms select better outsourcing partners for long-term collaborations. We also provide a case as an illustration of how the proposed selection model is implemented.
Enhancing the Stability of the Switched Systems Using the Saltation Matrix
Authors: Muñoz Juan-Guillermo , Pérez Arnold , Angulo Fabiola
Published: December 2018

Controlling switched systems is a difficult task, even when dealing with piecewise linear systems (CPWLs), which consist of a set of linear differential equations and a set of switching conditions. This difficulty is largely due to the loss of linearity in the entire system, and it is necessary to solve differential and algebraic equations to determine the solution. In this paper, a new method to tune the parameters of the controllers applied to switched systems is derived using information from the saltation matrix, particularly its induced norm. First, the parameters are tuned using classical methods, and then, after analyzing the norm of the saltation matrix, a new set of parameters that guarantees the stability of the period-1 orbit is obtained. The method is validated using analytical solutions for two different systems (boost and boost-flyback power converters) and is also experimentally validated for the boost-flyback power converter.
Analytical and Numerical Study on a Parametric Pendulum with the Step-Wave Modulation of Length and Forcing
Authors: Olejnik Paweł , Fečkan Michal , Awrejcewicz Jan
Published: December 2018

A parametric pendulum excited by a discrete wave-modulated step function of length is subjected to a mathematical analysis and numerical modeling. We observe an existence of almost periodic solutions of ordinary differential equations with linear boundary value conditions. An exemplary oscillator subject to both an almost periodic step elongation and forcing synchronizes with the forcing, tending to almost periodic motions like stable limit cycles. Conditions for that synchronization as well as trajectories of numerical solutions on time history plots and phase planes are shown to confirm correctness of the analytical derivations and dedicated numerical modeling.
Digraphs associated with the kth power map on the quotient ring of polynomials over finite fields
Authors: Sawkmie Amplify , Singh Madan Mohan
Published: December 2018

Let [Formula: see text] be a monic polynomial over a finite field [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] an integer. A digraph [Formula: see text] is one whose vertex set is [Formula: see text] and for which there is a directed edge from a polynomial [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text]. If [Formula: see text], where the [Formula: see text]’s are distinct monic irreducible polynomials over [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] can be factorized as [Formula: see text]. In this work, we investigate the structure of these power digraphs. The semiregularity property is examined, and its relationship with the symmetric property is established. In addition, we look into the uniqueness of factorization of trees attached to a fixed point.
The structure of locally finite groups of finite c-dimension
Authors: Buturlakin A. A.
Published: December 2018

The [Formula: see text]-dimension of a group is the supremum of lengths of strict nested chains of centralizers. We describe the structure of locally finite groups of finite [Formula: see text]-dimension. We also prove that the [Formula: see text]-dimension of the quotient [Formula: see text] of a locally finite group [Formula: see text] by the locally soluble radical [Formula: see text] is bounded in terms of the [Formula: see text]-dimension of [Formula: see text].
Mathieu–Zhao subspaces of vertex algebras
Authors: Yamskulna Gaywalee
Published: December 2018

We introduce a notion of Mathieu–Zhao subspaces of vertex algebras. Among other things, we show that for a vertex algebra [Formula: see text] and its subspace [Formula: see text] that contains [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] is a Mathieu–Zhao subspace of [Formula: see text] if and only if the quotient space [Formula: see text] is a Mathieu–Zhao subspace of a commutative associative algebra [Formula: see text]. As a result, one can study the famous Jacobian conjecture in terms of Mathieu–Zhao subspaces of vertex algebras. In addition, for a [Formula: see text]-type vertex operator algebra [Formula: see text] that satisfies the [Formula: see text]-cofiniteness condition, we classify all Mathieu–Zhao subspaces [Formula: see text] that contain [Formula: see text].
Betti numbers of toric ideals of graphs: A case study
Authors: Galetto Federico , Hofscheier Johannes , Keiper Graham , Kohne Craig , Van Tuyl Adam , Paczka Miguel Eduardo Uribe
Published: December 2018

We compute the graded Betti numbers for the toric ideal of a family of graphs constructed by adjoining a cycle to a complete bipartite graph. The key observation is that this family admits an initial ideal which has linear quotients. As a corollary, we compute the Hilbert series and [Formula: see text]-vector for all the toric ideals of graphs in this family.
D5(1)-Geometric crystal corresponding to the Dynkin spin node i = 5 and its ultra-discretization
Authors: Igarashi Mana , Misra Kailash C. , Pongprasert Suchada
Published: December 2018

Let [Formula: see text] be an affine Lie algebra with index set [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] be its Langlands dual. It is conjectured that for each Dynkin node [Formula: see text] the affine Lie algebra [Formula: see text] has a positive geometric crystal whose ultra-discretization is isomorphic to the limit of certain coherent family of perfect crystals for [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we construct a positive geometric crystal [Formula: see text] in the level zero fundamental spin [Formula: see text]-module [Formula: see text]. Then we define explicit [Formula: see text]-action on the level [Formula: see text] known [Formula: see text]-perfect crystal [Formula: see text] and show that [Formula: see text] is a coherent family of perfect crystals with limit [Formula: see text]. Finally, we show that the ultra-discretization of [Formula: see text] is isomorphic to [Formula: see text] as crystals which proves the conjecture in this case.
An Integrated Framework for Examining Innovation Alignment in Organizations
Authors: Dilan Ebru , Aydin Mehmet N.
Published: December 2018

Innovation has been promoted as a panacea to solve the long-standing problem of how organizations deal with complexities associated with uncertainty and instability in ever changing environments. information systems (IS) research focusing on innovation has adopted several perspectives to reveal a rich context in which the innovation surfaces as a phenomenon. Examination of a rich context may contribute to a better understanding of an extent to which uncertainty and instability can affect or be affected by innovation strategies that require various innovation efforts in an organization. In this regard, one of the most critical issues is to ensure that these innovation efforts can achieve a successful outcome via their strategic and structural alignment. In this research, we propose an integrated framework that addresses an innovation alignment issue by employing three high-level notions (strategic dimensions, structural characteristics, strategizing acts). The integrated framework has been used rigorously in two cases for an explorative purpose. Our interpretation of the evidence suggests that strategizing act, as a high-level notion has an explanatory power to articulate the associations between strategic dimensions and structural characteristics. Among other findings, we have observed that the closed, incremental and process-oriented innovation strategy is particularly relevant to the corporate level whereas radical, product-oriented, and partially open innovation strategy is associated with a more exclusive innovation structure.
A Novel Sub-Stepping Method with Numerical Dissipation Control for Time Integration of Highly Flexible Structures
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Saeed , Ghassemieh Mehdi
Published: December 2018

Sub-stepping time integration methods attempt to march each time step with multiple sub-steps. Generally, for the first sub-step, a single-step method is applied and the following sub-steps are solved using a method that utilizes the data obtained from two or three previous equilibrium points. Despite the robust stability in problems, control of numerical dissipation in sub-stepping schemes is a tough task due to applying different algorithms on a time increment. In order to overcome this insufficiency, a new sub-stepping time integration scheme, which uses two sub-steps in each time increment, is proposed. Newmark and quadratic acceleration methods are applied on the first and second sub-steps, respectively. Both methods utilize constant parameters that enable the control of numerical dissipation in the analysis. For the proposed method, the stability analysis revealed the unconditional stability region for the pertinent parameters. Additionally, the precision investigation disclosed an advantage of the proposed method with the presence of minor period elongation error. Finally, the application of the proposed method is illuminated via several numerical examples. In addition to numerical dissipation control, the proposed method proved to have an outstanding advantage over other methods in solving highly flexible structures more efficiently and more accurately.
Boundary Element Algorithm for Modeling and Simulation of Dual-Phase Lag Bioheat Transfer and Biomechanics of Anisotropic Soft Tissues
Authors: Fahmy Mohamed Abdelsabour
Published: December 2018

The main aim of this paper is to propose a new boundary element algorithm for describing thermomechanical interactions in anisotropic soft tissues. The governing equations are studied based on the dual-phase lag bioheat transfer and Biot’s theory. Due to the advantages of convolution quadrature boundary element method (CQBEM), such as low CPU usage, low memory usage and suitability for treatment of soft tissues that have complex shapes, it is a versatile and powerful method for modeling of bioheat distribution in anisotropic soft tissues and the related deformation. The resulting linear systems for bioheat and mechanical equations are solved by Transpose-free quasi-minimal residual (TFQMR) solver with a dual-threshold incomplete LU factorization technique (ILUT) preconditioner that reduces the iterations number and total CPU time. Numerical results demonstrate the validity, efficiency and accuracy of the proposed algorithm and technique.
Finite Element Analysis to the Constitutive Behavior of Sintered Silver Nanoparticles Under Nanoindentation
Authors: Long Xu , Du Chongyang , Li Zhen , Guo Hongcun , Yao Yao , Lu Xiuzhen , Hu Xiaowu , Ye Lilei , Liu Johan
Published: December 2018

Finite element (FE) simulation is adopted as a fundamental tool to evaluate the mechanical reliability of packaging structures for electronic devices. Nevertheless, the determination of mechanical properties of sintered silver nanoparticles (AgNP) remains challenging as the traditional tensile test is difficult to be performed at a limited size. In the current study, spherical nanoindentation is utilized to measure the applied load-penetration depth responses of sintered AgNP reinforced by SiC microparticles at various weight ratios (0.0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 wt.%). To describe the elasto-plastic behavior of this heterogeneous material, FE analysis is performed to simulate the indentation behavior and determine the parameters in the modified power-law model by fitting the average applied load-penetration depth responses. To overcome the uniqueness problem, the Young’s modulus is directly determined by continuous stiffness measurement technique and the proposed constitutive model can provide a reasonably accurate mechanical estimation of sintered AgNP. The effect of SiC content on sintered AgNP is discussed by correlating the morphology observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the constitutive parameters obtained from the FE simulations.
A Viscoelastic Model of Recovery Behaviors in Preforming Process for Carbon Fiber Fabrics with Binder
Authors: Wei Kai , Liang Ding , Mei Ming , Li Maojun , Yang Xujing , Duan Shuyong
Published: December 2018

In performing process of liquid composite molding, the binder can enhance the near net shape of the fabrics, while the viscoelastic model which can predict the recovery behaviors for the fabrics with binder has not been reported yet. Here, a viscoelastic model, which consists of parallel dashpot and spring elements, is originally developed to predict the recovery behaviors. Systematical experiments of typical carbon fiber fabrics were conducted to validate the proposed model. The viscoelastic theoretical curves match well with the experimental measurements, demonstrating the model can well capture the strain evolution in the recovery process. Besides, with the added binder, the minimum strain and recovery stain limit respectively significantly increased and reduced, confirming the addition of binder can remarkably reduce the recovery deformation, and promote the near net shape of fabrics. Besides, the delay time, which characterizes the time required for the completion of recovery process, enlarges with the increased contents of binder, and this result is consistent with the theoretical prediction. Correspondingly, the time for maintaining the net shape of the fabrics in performing process can be increased by using binder, which will be favorable to practical preforming process.
Thermo-Chemo-Elasticity Considering Solid State Reaction and the Displacement Potential Approach to Quasi-Static Chemo-Mechanical Problems
Authors: Zhang Xiaolong , Zhong Zheng
Published: December 2018

Engineering materials and structures represent complex behaviors when reacting to superposed influences of mechanical forces, high temperature, diffusion and reaction of chemicals, which could cause large internal stresses and further induce cracks or failure. To determine the material reliability and integrity, the multi-field interactions and stresses/strains evolutions need to be identified at first. We proposed a theory of thermo-chemo-elasticity considering solid state reactions between the solid phase and absorbed chemicals in a stressed-solid. Both diffusion–reaction induced chemical strains and thermal dilations are taken into account as functions of species concentration, reaction extent and temperature. The fully coupled conservation laws, constitutive equations and chemical kinetics are formulated for the initial-boundary problem. For isotropic solids, we developed a displacement potential approach for steady-state 3D problems of thermo-chemo-elasticity. Solutions can be found from particular solutions of displacement potential and homogeneous solution of thermo-chemo Lamé equation. This approach is also available for transient chemo-mechanical problems in thermal equilibrium providing that quasi-static conditions are introduced. We exemplified the model with a reaction-dominated problem of a core–shell structure subjected to chemo-mechanical loading and the results demonstrate the capability of the model in dealing with comprehensive influences of solid state reaction and species diffusion on solids.