bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender‐responsive budgeting: A budget reform to address gender inequity
Authors: Rubin Marilyn Marks , Bartle John R.
Published: November 2021

In recognition of gender inequities, more than 80 countries have applied a gender perspective to their budget process, initiatives referred to as gender‐responsive budgeting (GRB). Research on GRB initiatives has focused on whether they reduce gender inequities. However, if it is to have a lasting effect, GRB must reform the budget process and become integral to government administrative routines. We examine the experiences of several countries with GRB initiatives and identify the key factors explaining implementation success or failure. We find that these factors are similar to those that explain the success of earlier budget reforms focused on efficiency and effectiveness. While the equity objective of GRB differentiates it from other budget reforms, these factors provide the context for understanding GRB initiatives. Although gender parity is just one dimension of social equity, the success of GRB initiatives shows that governments can use their budgets to meet social equity objectives.
Functional near‐infrared spectroscopy to assess pain in neonatal circumcisions
Authors: Yuan Ian , Nelson Olivia , Barr Gordon A. , Zhang Bingqing , Topjian Alexis A. , DiMaggio Theresa J. , Lang Shih‐Shan , Christ Lori A. , Izzetoglu Kurtulus , Greco Christine C. , Kurth Charles D. , Ganesh Arjunan
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Pain assessment is challenging in neonates. Behavioral and physiological pain scales do not assess neocortical nociception, essential to pain encoding and central pain pathway development. Functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) can assess neocortical activation to noxious stimuli from changes in oxy‐(HbO) and total‐hemoglobin concentrations (HbT). This study aims to assess fNIRS nociceptive functional activation in the prefrontal cortex of neonates undergoing circumcision through changes in HbO and HbT, and the correlation between changes in fNIRS and Neonatal Infant Pain Scale (NIPS), a behavioral pain assessment scale.

Methods

In healthy term neonates, HbO, HbT, and NIPS were recorded during sequential circumcision events 1‐Prep before local anesthetic injection; 2‐Local anesthetic injection; 3‐Prep before incision; 4‐Oral sucrose; 5‐Incision; 6‐Gomco (hemostatic device) attached; 7‐Gomco twisted on; and 8‐Gomco removed. fNIRS and NIPS changes after each event were assessed with Wilcoxon signed‐rank test and summarized as median and interquartile range (IQR). Changes in fNIRS vs. NIPS were correlated with Spearman coefficient.

Results

In 31 neonates fNIRS increased (median [IQR] µmol/L) with noxious events: Local injection (HbO: 1.1 [0.5, 3.1], p < .001; HbT: 2.3 [0.2, 7.6], p < .001), Gomco attached (HbO: 0.7 [0.1, 1.7], p = .002; HbT: 0.7 [−0.2, 2.9], p = .02), and Gomco twisted on (HbO: 0.5 [−0.2, 1.7], p = .03; HbT: 0.8 [−0.1, 3.3], p = .02). fNIRS decreased with non‐noxious event: Prep before incision (HbO: −0.6 [−1.2, −0.2] p < .001; HbT: −1 [−1.8, −0.4], p < .001). Local anesthetic attenuated fNIRS increases to subsequent sharp stimuli. NIPS increased with subsequent sharp stimuli despite local anesthetic. Although fNIRS and NIPS changed in the same direction, there was not a strong correlation between them.

Conclusions

During neonatal circumcision, changes in fNIRS differed between different types of painful stimuli, which was not the case for NIPS, suggesting that fNIRS may complement NIPS to assess the quality of pain.
Association between implementation of a coordinated care pathway in idiopathic scoliosis patients and a reduction in perioperative outcome disparities
Authors: Dela Merced Philip , Vazquez Colon Caroll , Mirzada Ariana , Oke Ayodele , Gal Zsombor , Cheng Jenhao , Oetgen Matthew M. , Martin Benjamin , Pestieau Sophie R. , Cronin Jessica A.
Published: November 2021

Background

There are well‐documented racial and ethnic disparities in treatment and perioperative outcomes for patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Aims

We hypothesize that the implementation of a coordinated care pathway for pediatric patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis may be associated with a reduction in racial and ethnic disparities in perioperative outcomes.

Methods

This is a retrospective pre‐ and post‐test cohort study of patients who underwent posterior spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis at our institution between July 1, 2013 and August 5, 2019. We implemented a coordinated care pathway in March 2015. Patient demographics included age, race, ethnicity, weight, gender, insurance status, ASA class, time between the date surgery was ordered and the date surgery occurred, degree of scoliosis, and the number of spinal levels fused. The primary outcome was length of stay. The secondary outcomes included transfusion rates, pain scores, and postoperative complications. Multivariable regression models compared outcome medians across race/ethnicity. Disparities were defined as the difference in adjusted outcomes by race/ethnicity.

Results

Four hundred twenty‐four patients underwent posterior spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis at our institution (116 prepathway and 308 postpathway). The median length of stay of Black patients was 1.0 day (95% CI: 0.4, 1.5; p = .006) longer than White patients prepathway. Prepathway patients who self‐identified as Other had a 1.2 (95% CI: 0.5, 1.9; p = .004) higher median average pain score on postoperative day 1 compared with White patients. On postoperative day 2, patients who identified as Other had 2.0 (95% CI: 0.8, 3.2; p = .005) higher pain score compared with White patients prepathway. Postpathway, there were no significant differences in outcomes by race/ethnicity.

Conclusions

Our study supports the hypothesis that use of a coordinated care pathway is associated with a reduction in racial and ethnic disparities in length of stay and pain scores in pediatric patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion.
CdWRKY2‐mediated sucrose biosynthesis and CBF‐signalling pathways coordinately contribute to cold tolerance in bermudagrass
Authors: Huang Xuebing , Cao Liwen , Fan Jibiao , Ma Guangjing , Chen Liang
Published: November 2021

Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) is one of the most widely cultivated warm‐season turfgrass species around the world. Cold stress has been a key environmental factor that adversely affects the growth, development, and geographical distribution of bermudagrass; however, the underlying mechanism of bermudagrass responsive to cold stress remains largely unexplored. Here, we identified a cold‐induced WRKY transcription factor CdWRKY2 from bermudagrass and demonstrated its function in cold stress response. Overexpression of CdWRKY2 enhanced cold tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis and bermudagrass hairy roots, while knocking down CdWRKY2 expression via virus‐induced gene silencing increased cold susceptibility. RNA sequencing showed that overexpression of CdWRKY2 in Arabidopsis activated the expression of genes involved in sucrose synthesis and metabolism, including sucrose synthase 1 (AtSUS1) and sucrose phosphate synthase 2F (AtSPS2F). CdSPS1, the homology gene of AtSPS2F in bermudagrass, was subsequently proven to be the direct target of CdWRKY2 by yeast one‐hybrid, electrophoretic mobility shift assay, and transient expression analysis. As expected, overexpression of CdSPS1 conferred cold tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis plants, whereas silencing CdSPS1 expression enhanced cold sensitivity in bermudagrass. Besides, CdCBF1 whose expression was dramatically up‐regulated in CdWRKY2‐overexpressing bermudagrass hairy roots but down‐regulated in CdWRKY2‐silencing bermudagrass both under normal and cold stress conditions was confirmed as another target of CdWRKY2. Collectively, this study reveals that CdWRKY2 is a positive regulator in cold stress by targeting CdSPS1 and CdCBF1 promoters and activating their expression to coordinately mediate sucrose biosynthesis and CBF‐signalling pathway, which provides valuable information for breeding cold‐resistant bermudagrass through gene manipulation.
Loss aversion, labor supply, and income taxation*
Authors: Zubrickas Robertas
Published: November 2021

We assume that taxpayers are loss averse in reference to other taxpayers’ consumption. Loss aversion implies that labor supply responses to taxation depend on the taxpayer's position in the income distribution. Consistent with empirical evidence, we find the steeper the ascent on the curve of income distribution, the smaller the labor supply elasticity. In the standard problem of optimal income taxation, the role of income distribution is to aggregate the labor supply effects of taxation. We show that loss aversion can offset the aggregation role of income distribution resulting in a greater role for social concerns.
“You Should Be Proud!” Native‐Themed Mascots and the Cultural Reproduction of White Settler Space
Authors: Jacobs Michelle R.
Published: November 2021

My research explores the Cleveland baseball franchise’s role in the cultural reproduction of White settler space in the NE Ohio region. Using a multi‐site, mixed‐methods approach, I examine prominent narratives about Indian‐ness and ownership circulated for over a century in NE Ohio socio‐cultural spheres. I elucidate how the franchise’s storytelling regarding its “Indians” identity produces localized meanings of Indian‐ness that Cleveland baseball fans reiterate and manipulate in protest narratives (what fans said in interactions with Indigenous people and allies protesting the team’s “Indians” identity outside Cleveland baseball stadium) and published narratives (what fans said in published opinions following the team’s name change announcement). Ultimately, this study reveals how settler‐constructed histories that disregard US imperialism and colonialism commingle with regional stories of romanticized Indian‐ness to amplify processes of colonial unknowing and reproduce White settler space. Such spaces normalize settler possession of Indigenous territories and identities, prioritize settler interests (both material and psychological), affirm White innocence, and animate racialized emotions of repulsion and disgust for Indigenous peoples.
Multi‐camera video synopsis of a geographic scene based on optimal virtual viewpoint
Authors: Xie Yujia , Wang Meizhen , Liu Xuejun , Wang Xing , Wu Yiguang , Wang Feiyue , Wang Xiaozhi
Published: November 2021

Video synopsis offers the possibility to compress long‐term video objects into a short‐term playback. This is beneficial for the quick retrieval and expression of numerous video objects in a virtual geographic environment. However, existing methods do not consider the spatiotemporal relationships among video objects in different cameras. To overcome this problem, we propose optimal virtual viewpoint‐based multi‐camera video synopsis, which involves: locating the camera position and the field of view; constructing a video image observability model to enumerate the observable camera combinations; constructing an evaluation model to optimally select the observable combinations and obtain the virtual viewpoint group; and setting the parameters of the video object display to obtain a multi‐camera video synopsis of a geographic scene. Experimental results showed that our method achieved the rapid display of global motion across cameras with numerous video objects, and always outperformed separate camera‐based video synopsis expression.
Outbreak of seafood‐related food poisoning from undetectable Vibrio parahaemolyticus‐like pathogen, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand, December 2020
Authors: Janekrongtham Chawisar , Dejburum Patcharaporn , Sujinpram Saran , Rattanathumsakul Thanit , Swaddiwudhipong Witaya
Published: November 2021

Objective

On 1 December 2020, the Department of Disease Control of Thailand was notified of a cluster of food poisoning cases among participants at a church festival in Mae Ai district, Chiang Mai province. We conducted an outbreak investigation to confirm diagnosis, describe the epidemiological characteristics of the outbreak, identify possible sources of the outbreak and provide appropriate control measures.

Methods

We reviewed medical records of the food poisoning cases from the health care centres. Active case finding was conducted among participants who had consumed food and water at the festival. An environmental survey was done in the village where the festival was held. A case‐control study was conducted to identify the source of the outbreak. Samples for laboratory analysis included rectal swabs and fresh stool specimens from the cases and food handlers, surface swabs of cooking equipment, food, water and ice samples.

Results

Among 436 participants surveyed, 368 (84.4%) cases of food poisoning were identified. The most common clinical manifestation was abdominal pain (89.7%), followed by watery diarrhoea (45.7%), nausea (43.5%), vomiting (38.9%), fever (18.5%) and bloody diarrhoea (4.6%). None died in this outbreak. The case‐control study showed that mixed spicy seafood salad served in the festival was significantly associated with the disease by both univariable and multivariable analyses. However, the causative agent could not be identified. The environmental investigation suggested this seafood might have been undercooked.

Conclusion

Clinical manifestations of the cases, incubation period and the suspected seafood salad suggested seafood‐related food poisoning. Grimontia hollisae, the organism causing illness similar to Vibrio parahaemolyticus and commonly undetectable in the laboratory with routine testing, might be the pathogen that caused this outbreak. G. hollisae should be in differential diagnosis and identified in seafood‐associated outbreaks.
Sculpting the soil microbiota
Authors: Custódio Valéria , Gonin Mathieu , Stabl Georg , Bakhoum Niokhor , Oliveira Maria Margarida , Gutjahr Caroline , Castrillo Gabriel
Published: November 2021

Soil is a living ecosystem, the health of which depends on fine interactions among its abiotic and biotic components. These form a delicate equilibrium maintained through a multilayer network that absorbs certain perturbations and guarantees soil functioning. Deciphering the principles governing the interactions within soils is of critical importance for their management and conservation. Here, we focus on soil microbiota and discuss the complexity of interactions that impact the composition and function of soil microbiota and their interaction with plants. We discuss how physical aspects of soils influence microbiota composition and how microbiota–plant interactions support plant growth and responses to nutrient deficiencies. We predict that understanding the principles determining the configuration and functioning of soil microbiota will contribute to the design of microbiota‐based strategies to preserve natural resources and develop more environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
The RanBP2 zinc finger domains of chloroplast RNA editing factor OZ1 are required for protein–protein interactions and conversion of C to U
Authors: Gipson Andrew B. , Hanson Maureen R. , Bentolila Stéphane
Published: November 2021

In the chloroplast, organelle zinc finger 1 (OZ1) is a RanBP2‐type zinc finger (Znf) protein required for many RNA editing events, a process by which specific cytosines are enzymatically converted to uracils as a correction mechanism for missense mutations in the organelle genomes. RNA editing is carried out by a large multi‐protein complex called the ‘editosome’ that contains members of the pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) protein family, the RNA editing factor interacting protein (also known as MORF) family and the organelle RNA‐recognition motif (ORRM) family, in addition to OZ1. OZ1 is an 82‐kDa protein with distinct domains, including a pair of Znf domains and a unique C‐terminal region. To elucidate the functions of these domains, we have generated truncations of OZ1 for use in protein–protein interaction assays that identified the C‐terminal region of OZ1, as well as the Znf domains as the primary interactors with PPR proteins, which are factors required for site‐specificity and enzymatic editing. Expression of these OZ1 truncations in vivo showed that the Znf domains were required to restore chloroplast RNA editing in oz1 knockout plants. Mutation of key structural residues in the Znf domains showed that they are necessary for editing and required for interaction with ORRM1, a general editing factor with an RNA‐binding domain. These functional characterizations of the Znfs and novel C‐terminal domain contribute to our understanding of the model for the chloroplast plant editosome.
Economic performance in Africa: The role of fragile financial system
Authors: Inekwe John Nkwoma
Published: November 2021

We relate risk in the African financial system to its long‐run economic performance under structural changes and cross‐sectional dependence. To achieve this objective, we generate risk indexes from several measures of financial soundness. We find a long‐run relationship between financial risk factors and economic performance indicators. Financial risk factors induce about 3% fall in RGDPP in the long‐run. This impact is huge in Kenya, Nigeria, Madagascar, Mauritius and Rwanda, whereas a reduction in employment is more prominent in Kenya, Madagascar and South Africa in this order. The capital risk index is more relevant in explaining economic performance in Africa.
Productivity and wage effects of firm‐level upstreamness: Evidence from Belgian linked panel data
Authors: Mahy Benoît , Rycx François , Vermeylen Guillaume , Volral Mélanie
Published: November 2021

This paper is the first to estimate the impact of a direct measurement of firm‐level upstreamness (i.e. the steps—weighted distance—before the production of a firm meets either domestic or foreign final demand) on productivity and wage costs. To this end, we merged detailed Belgian linked panel data, covering all years from 2002 to 2010, with a unique dataset containing accurate information on the yearly position of each firm in the value chain. We rely on the methodological framework pioneered by Hellerstein et al. (Journal of Labor Economics, 1999, 17, 409) to estimate panel data models at the firm level. Controlling for key worker and firm characteristics, our GMM‐SYS and FE‐IV estimates show that firms positioned more upstream (i.e. further away from the final consumer) create more value. Our results also indicate that the impact of firm‐level upstreamness is stronger on productivity than on wage costs, which implies that profitability is fostered. More precisely, in line with Belgium's strong labour market institutions, our estimates suggest that the productivity gains associated with upstreamness are shared almost equally between wages and profits.
CDC6: A novel canine tumour biomarker detected in circulating extracellular vesicles
Authors: Andriessen Anneloes , Bongiovanni Laura , Driedonks Tom A. P. , van Liere Elsbeth , Seijger Anne , Hegeman Charlotte V. , van Nimwegen Sebastiaan A. , Galac Sara , Westendorp Bart , Nolte‐'t Hoen Esther N. M. , de Bruin Alain
Published: November 2021

Circulating nucleic acids and extracellular vesicles (EV) represent novel biomarkers to diagnose cancer. The non‐invasive nature of these so‐called liquid biopsies provides an attractive alternative to tissue biopsy‐based cancer diagnostics. This study aimed to investigate if circulating cell cycle‐related E2F target transcripts can be used to diagnose tumours in canine tumour patients with different types of tumours. Furthermore, we assessed if these mRNAs are localised within circulating EV. We isolated total RNA from the plasma of 20 canine tumour patients and 20 healthy controls. Four E2F target genes (CDC6, DHFR, H2AFZ and ATAD2) were selected based on the analysis of published data of tumour samples available in public databases. We performed reverse transcription and quantitative real‐time PCR to analyse the plasma levels of selected E2F target transcripts. All four E2F target transcripts were detectable in the plasma of canine tumour patients. CDC6 mRNA levels were significantly higher in the plasma of canine tumour patients compared to healthy controls. A subset of canine tumour patient and healthy control plasma samples (n = 7) were subjected to size exclusion chromatography in order to validate association of the E2F target transcripts to circulating EV. For CDC6, EV analysis enhanced their detectability compared to total plasma analysis. In conclusion, our study reveals circulating CDC6 as a promising non‐invasive biomarker to diagnose canine tumours.
Perinatal risk factors associated with severity of haemolytic disease of the foetus and newborn due to Rhc maternal‐foetal incompatibility: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Franchinard Loriane , Maisonneuve Emeline , Friszer Stéphanie , Toly Ndour Cécile , Huguet‐Jacquot Stéphanie , Maurice Paul , Mailloux Agnès , Cortey Anne , Jouannic Jean‐Marie
Published: November 2021

Background and Objectives

Anti‐c is the third red blood cell antibody responsible for haemolytic disease of the foetus and newborn (HDFN) requiring intrauterine transfusion. We aimed to identify risk factors associated with HDFN and severe HDFN due to Rhc maternal‐foetal incompatibility.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted in Paris and the surrounding area (France), between 2013 and 2015. We included mothers and their children managed by the National Reference Centre in Perinatal Hemobiology for alloimmunization and maternal‐foetal incompatibility for the Rhc antigen (N = 121). We conducted bivariate analyses to assess a relationship between perinatal factors (e.g., titre and concentration of anti‐c antibodies, direct antiglobulin test) and HDFN, its severity and duration.

Results

The incidence of HDFN was 30% (n = 36), including 11% of severe HDFN (n = 13). Seven percent (n = 9) of neonates received at least one transfusion during the first week and 21% (n = 26) after this period until 3 weeks of life. During pregnancy, a concentration ≥7.5 IU/ml and a titre ≥4 and above were associated with HDFN and severe HDFN (p < 0.05). At birth, the high intensity of the quantitative direct antiglobulin test was associated with HDFN and severe HDFN (p < 0.05). A concentration ≥15 IU/ml is the best factor (area under curve [AUC] = 0.78) in predicting HDFN, followed by a titre ≥8 (AUC = 0.76).

Conclusion

Anti‐c alloimmunization causes neonatal anaemia, which is often belated. Paediatricians have to be aware of these risk factors and organize prolonged monitoring of neonates.
Evidence of region‐specific right ventricular functional adaptation in endurance‐trained men in response to an acute volume infusion
Authors: Dawkins Tony G. , Curry Bryony A. , Drane Aimee L. , Lord Rachel N. , Richards Cory T. , Lodge Freya M. , Yousef Zaheer , Pugh Christopher J. A. , Shave Robert E. , Stembridge Mike
Published: November 2021

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Endurance athletes demonstrate altered regional right ventricular (RV) wall mechanics, characterized by lower basal deformation, in comparison to non‐athletic control subjects at rest. We hypothesized that regional adaptations at the RV base reflect an enhanced functional reserve capacity in response to haemodynamic volume loading.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Free wall RV longitudinal strain is elevated in response to acute volume loading in both endurance athletes and control subjects. However, the RV basal segment longitudinal strain response to acute volume infusion is greater in endurance athletes. Our findings suggest that training‐induced cardiac remodelling might involve region‐specific adaptation in the RV functional response to volume manipulation.

Eccentric remodelling of the right ventricle (RV) in response to increased blood volume and repetitive haemodynamic load during endurance exercise is well established. Structural remodelling is accompanied by decreased deformation at the base of the RV free wall, which might reflect an enhanced functional reserve capacity in response to haemodynamic perturbation. Therefore, in this study we examined the impact of acute blood volume expansion on RV wall mechanics in 16 young endurance‐trained men (aged 24 ± 3 years) and 13 non‐athletic male control subjects (aged 27 ± 5 years). Conventional echocardiographic parameters and the longitudinal strain and strain rate were quantified at the basal and apical levels of the RV free wall. Measurements were obtained at rest and after 7 ml/kg i.v. Gelofusine infusion, with and without a passive leg raise. After infusion, blood volume increased by 12 ± 4 and 14 ± 5% in endurance‐trained individuals versus control subjects, respectively (P = 0.264). Both endurance‐trained individuals (8 ± 10%) and control subjects (7 ± 9%) experienced an increase in free wall strain from baseline, which was also similar following leg raise (7 ± 10 and 6 ± 10%, respectively; P = 0.464). However, infusion evoked a greater increase in basal longitudinal strain in endurance‐trained versus control subjects (16 ± 14 vs. 6 ± 11%; P = 0.048), which persisted after leg raise (16 ± 18 vs. 3 ± 11%; P = 0.032). Apical longitudinal strain and RV free wall strain rates were not different between groups and remained unchanged after infusion across all segments. Endurance training results in a greater contribution of longitudinal myocardial deformation at the base of the RV in response to a haemodynamic volume challenge, which might reflect a greater region‐specific functional reserve capacity.
Degradation Mechanism of the Balsa Wood Core Composite Sandwich Beam From Heating From One Side
Authors: Dutta Piyush K. , Hui David , Argueso Marta
Published: November 2021

An experimental study of the behavior at different temperatures of Balsa Wood Core Composite Sandwich (BWCCS) panels proposed to be used in shipboard structures is presented. It characterizes the high temperature failure of the BWCCS under a flexural load. The study includes two different experiments. The first is the determination of temperature distribution along the thickness of BWCCS panels. In the second, the panels are studied in a three-point bending test at two different temperatures: room temperature (20°C) and high temperature (79°C).
The Role of Adhesive in the Load Response of Adhesively Bonded Aluminum Hat Sections Under Axial Compression
Authors: Lu Jianping , Newaz Golam M. , Gibson Ronald F.
Published: November 2021

Aluminum hat section, either adhesively bonded or unbonded, experiences buckling, post buckling and plastic collapse when axially compressed. However, there exist obvious differences in the load response between the bonded and unbonded hat sections. Finite element eigenvalue buckling analysis is carried out to predict the buckling load and mode. Experiments show that when adhesively bonded hat sections begin to buckle there is a transformation from the first buckling mode to the higher ones, while the unbonded hat sections develop the post buckling based on the lowest buckling mode. The different buckling modes result in not only different buckling loads but different peak loads of the hat sections as well. Finally, the ultimate compressive strength formulae are proposed for the hat sections.
Optimal Configuration of Ultrasonic Sensors in a 3D Position Estimation System Using Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Ray Probir Kumar , Unnikrishnan Nishant , Mahajan Ajay
Published: November 2021

This paper provides a genetic algorithm based approach to calculate the optimal placement of receivers in a 3D position estimation system that uses the difference in the time-of-arrivals (TOA) of an ultrasonic wave from a transmitter to the different receivers fixed in 3D space. This is a different approach to traditional systems that use the actual time-of-flights (TOF) from the transmitter to the different receivers and triangulate the position of the transmitter. The new approach makes the system more accurate, makes the transmitter independent of the receivers and does not require the need of calculating the time delay term that is inherent in traditional systems due to delays caused by the electronic circuitry. This paper presents a thorough analysis of receiver configurations in the 2D and 3D system that lead to singularities, i.e. locations of receivers that lead to formulations that can not be solved due to a shortage of information. It provides guidelines of where not to place receivers, and further, presents a detailed analysis of locations that are optimal, i.e. locations that lead to the most accurate estimation of the transmitter positions. The results presented in this paper are not only applicable to ultrasonic systems, but all systems that use wave theory, e.g. infrared, laser, etc. This work finds applications in virtual reality cells, robotics, guidance of indoor autonomous vehicles and vibration analysis.
Piezoelectric Structural Vibration Control Using Active Resonator Absorber
Authors: Knowles David W. , Jalili Nader , Ramadurai Sriram
Published: November 2021

A novel dynamic vibration absorber is presented while exploring its practical implementation using piezoelectric ceramic (PZT) inertial actuators. It is referred to as active resonator absorber (ARA). The ARA is a passive absorber with an additional dynamic feedback compensator within the PZT actuator. Without any controller, the PZT inertial actuator becomes a passive vibration absorber due to the internal damping and stiffness properties of piezoelectric materials. Hence, it is inherently fail-safe. For active operation, the compensator parameters are designed such that a resonance condition is intentionally created within the absorber to mimic the vibratory energy from the system of concern to which it is attached. The resonance condition can be created through the appropriate design of the compensator and implemented through adjusting the external electrical voltage applied to the absorber. Because the parameters of the PZT actuators (i.e. stiffness, damping, and effective mass) are estimates, compensator designs based on these parameters would result in partial vibration suppression, when utilized in real applications. An auto-tuning method is, therefore, introduced to effectively tune the compensator parameters to improve vibration suppression quality. The effectiveness and stability of the proposed absorber is demonstrated through simulations when appended on a SDOF primary system.
Acoustic Energy Extraction in the Presence of Duct Mean Flow
Authors: Madanshetty Sameer I. , Chu Boa-Teh
Published: November 2021

A method for controlling noise level in duct flows is described. The method is based on the principle of energy extraction by active source(s), rather than by wave cancellation as in “anti-sound”. As such the method of energy extraction is robust; it does not need the delicate signal processing, perfect phase and amplitude matching, crucial to sound cancellation. Analysis indicates that in the presence of through flow the control is effective in extracting energy from any waves traversing it. As the duct flow Mach number increases the control appears to be less effective for waves produced upstream of it but it is more effective for the waves produced downstream of the device. Further, this conclusion remains valid whether the detector is placed on the upstream or downstream side of the control device. A future paper will report the experimental validation of the analysis.
Active Noise Cancellation Using Feedforward and Hybrid Controls
Authors: Ohadi A. R. , Esmailzadeh E. , Alasty A.
Published: November 2021

The exact closed-form solution of a one-dimensional wave equation including the viscous damping effect has been obtained from the Green’s function. Accurate models for the error sensor and secondary loudspeaker, which includes the electro-mechanical and mechano-acoustical couplings, have been used and the transfer function of the primary, secondary and acoustic feedback paths of the active noise control system have been obtained. The generalized form of the classical FXLMS algorithm, referred to G-FXLMS algorithm, has been developed. In contrast to the FXLMS algorithm, G-FXLMS algorithm does not neglect the time shift of the filter coefficients and employs a more general recursive adaptive weight update equation, which can improve the performance of FXLMS algorithm. Simulation results presented to compare the performance of the feedforward and hybrid ANC systems and to study the effect of acoustical feedbacks and boundary conditions on the overall performance of ANC systems.
On the Design of Adaptive Robust Repetitive Controllers
Authors: Yao Bin , Xu Li
Published: November 2021

A new perspective on dealing with the noise sensitive problem of repetitive control algorithms is given in the paper. It is firstly shown that, in continuous-time domain, what the conventional repetitive learning algorithm does is equivalent to adapting all the values of the periodic uncertainties over one period. Such an endeavor means very high bandwidth of the learning algorithm as an infinite number of parameters need to be adapted, which puts a great demand on microprocessor memory in implementing the algorithms. At the same time, such a formulation also makes the algorithm very sensitive to noise as it treats the values of the periodic uncertainties over the same period totally independent from each other, just like a random noise. Based on this new perspective on the noise sensitive problem of repetitive algorithm, a simple remedy is provided for the recently proposed adaptive robust repetitive control (ARRC) design by recognizing the physical dependence of the values of the periodic uncertainties over the same period and using certain known basis functions to capture these physical dependence. By doing so, only the amplitudes of these known basis functions need to be adapted on-line. The net results are that, not only the number of the parameters to be adapted is reduced drastically, but also the noise sensitive problem of the conventional learning algorithm is overcome. The precision motion control of a linear motor drive system is used as an application example. The comparative experimental results demonstrate that, with the new adaptive robust repetitive control design, not only the noise sensitive problem of repetitive learning is completely eliminated, but also a much improved tracking performance is achieved due to the built-in extrapolation capability of the basis functions used.
Fuzzy Modeling on the Basis of FCM Technique: A Case Study Aiming at Process Supervision
Authors: Guerra Rodolfo E. Haber , Haber Rodolfo Haber , Alique Angel , Peres Clodeinir R. , Ros Salvador
Published: November 2021

The nonlinear behavior and complexity of machining processes have motivated researchers to use fuzzy model to effect process supervision. The main idea of this paper concerns the application of fuzzy logic and clustering techniques to develop a fuzzy model of the milling process aiming at the optimization of machine-tool performance and the overall machining process. A brief description of the algorithm employed is given, focused on the fuzzy c-mean technique (FCM). The results indicate that the FCM criterion is suitable for modeling complex processes such as the milling process. The fuzzy model obtained serves as foundation to develop complex supervisory systems.
Intelligent Modeling of Complex Manufacturing Processes Using Hierarchical Fuzzy Basis Function Networks
Authors: Lee Cheol W. , Choi Taejoon , Shin Yung C.
Published: November 2021

This paper presents a generalized modeling approach to modeling of complex manufacturing processes. Fuzzy basis function networks with a novel training algorithm are used to capture the cause-effect relationships of complex manufacturing processes. The modeling scheme allows for utilization of the existing knowledge in the form of analytical models, experimental data and heuristic rules in developing a suitable model. The method is implemented for the surface grinding processes based on the hierarchical structure of fuzzy basis function networks proposed by Lee and Shin [21]. Process models for surface roughness and residual stress are developed based on the available grinding model structures with a small number of experimental data to demonstrate the concept. The accuracy of developed models is validated through independent sets of grinding experiments.
Robust Output Feedback Force Control of Cantilever Beam Using Piezoelectric Actuator
Authors: Yim Woosoon , Singh Sahjendra N.
Published: November 2021

This paper treats the question of force control and stabilization of a flexible beam using a piezoceramic actuator using only output feedback. It is assumed that there exists unstructured model uncertainties including beam parameters, contact surface stiffness, and the number of vibration modes in the model, and only force measurement is used for the contact force control. The controller has the structure of an inverse (a feedback linearizing) control system. For compensating the unknown function in the inverse control law arising from the uncertainties in the model, its estimate is constructed by a high-gain observer. Simulation results are presented which show robust force trajectory control and stabilization in the closed-loop system in the presence of unstructured uncertainties.
Design and Integration of a Torque Sensor Beam Based Masterarm
Authors: Lee Sooyong , Kim Yoon Sang , Cho Changhyun , Kim Munsang
Published: November 2021

A new concept of the exoskeleton-type masterarm, composed of serial links, is introduced in this paper. To provide maximum range of human motion, several redundant joints are added to the serial links. In order to reduce the number of joints to be measured, kinematics of serial links was taken into consideration in design. Three measurable, controllable joints and three redundant free joints are used for the upper arm (shoulder), similarly to the forearm (wrist) while one measurable, controllable joint is used for the elbow. In particular, a torque sensor beam is designed for fine force reflection using the strain gauge. It detects the torque as well as its direction applied by the human operator, which allows the electric brake to be used as an actuator for force reflection. The electric brake constrains the joint movement so that the operator can feel the force. This electric brake outperforms the motor in terms of torque/weight ratio and makes the device light and compact. This masterarm measures the movement of the operator’s arm precisely, and it can be used for teleoperation with a slave robot, or as a motion planner for an industrial robot.
Robot Control Based on Coriolis and Centrifugal Terms Fuzzification
Authors: Politis Panos N. , Moulianitis Vassilis C. , Aspragathos Nikos A.
Published: November 2021

A new method for on-line tuning the gains of a decentralized PD controller with gravity compensation using fuzzy logic is proposed. The design of the controller is based on the fuzzy description of the robot configuration. The fuzzy inference system keeps track and takes decisions based on the robot configuration and joint velocities to adjust the derivative and proportional gains. The rules governing the controller are derived by studying the effects of the Coriolis and centrifugal terms on the robot dynamic behavior. The gravitational terms are computed using a fuzzy inference system for each joint. This FIS is trained with data taken from the simulated robot. The designed fuzzy-PD controller is compared with a centralized PD control law with gravity compensation and it is found that the fuzzy-PD controller is more robust in facing dynamic uncertainties. A two DOF robotic arm is used to demonstrate the performance of the proposed method for designing a robot controller.
A Mixed Thermal Convection Criteria for a Printed Circuit Board
Authors: Kehoe E. , Grimes R. , Davies M.
Published: November 2021

Mixed convection is a fundamentally significant heat transfer problem that occurs in a wide range of industrial and technological applications. For example, it is of great interest to thermal designers in the field of electronic cooling. Given that its occurrence is frequent, there is a necessity to understand its physics. This investigation is focused on a horizontal cylinder in cross-flow, at low Reynolds numbers of order 100–102 and high Grashof numbers of order 104 and at the Prandtl number for air. Particle image velocimetry and interferometric measurements for these cases clearly show the range of Gr/Re2 for which mixed convection occurs. Infra red temperature measurements from a printed circuit board mounted in a test electronic system at similar values of Grashof and Reynolds number are then presented which exhibit similar mixed convection phenomena.

The novelty lies in using the detailed measurements from the cylinder experiments to explain the temperature distribution across the printed circuit board. To do this requires finding the correct and characteristic lengths in the similarity condition. This should therefore allow the designers of electronic systems to estimate the values of Reynolds and Grashof number for which buoyancy effects need to be considered. This in turn will enable the designer to better predict the circuit board temperature distribution and component reliability.
An Investigation of Wavy Flow Passages on the Performance of Oil-Water Separators
Authors: Langerman Michael A. , Jensen Chenoa J.
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this research is to analyze flow fields within channels bounded by wavy plates and assess the effects of these flow passages on the efficiency of oil-water separators. Results from this study are used to analytically assess an industry accepted result that wavy plate channel surfaces promote a more effective oil-water separation process. For this investigation, an uncoupled, two-dimensional, dispersed-phase, simulation is implemented using a commercially available computational fluid dynamics code. First, the continuous phase (water) velocity field is calculated. For comparison purposes, both fiat and wavy passages are simulated. Next, buoyant oil particles (specific gravity of 0.70 and 0.95) are superimposed as the dispersed phase at the inlet to the channel. Oil droplet diameters of 100, 200, and 300 μm, which are typical droplet diameters encountered in industrial applications, are simulated. The particle trajectories are then determined and observations made of the particle behavior near the channel walls for both channel geometries.

Results show that a percentage of the particles are captured in vortices generated in the fluid within the wavy plate corrugations. As more particles are captured within these vortices, the spatial density of oil particles increases thus promoting coalescence. The coalescence results in larger oil particle diameters that, in turn, enhance separation through increased buoyancy. These results appear to substantiate industry observations regarding an increased oil-water separation efficiency using wavy channel passages. Nevertheless, more research is needed to optimize the design of the passages and better understand the coalescence phenomena.
Large Eddy Simulation and Experimental Measurements of a Methane-Air Fire Plume
Authors: DesJardin P. E. , Tieszen S. R. , O’Hern T. J.
Published: November 2021

Measurements of a large, 1-m in diameter, turbulent buoyant methane-air fire plume are taken and compared to results from numerical simulation using Large Eddy Simulation (LES). The experiments are carried out in Sandia’s FLAME (Fire Laboratory for Accreditation of Models and Experiments) facility and consist of a low velocity (0.12 m/sec) methane plume emitting upwards into ambient air. Numerical results show evidence of strong entrainment velocities resulting in flame pinch off near the base of the plume. Preliminary comparisons of the LES results to experimental measurements show good qualitative agreement to mean stream-wise and cross-stream velocities.
Heat Flux From Process Burners
Authors: Hayes Robert , Singh Prem , Baukal Charles E. , Foote Darin
Published: November 2021

This paper shows the effects of firing rate, excess air, and fuel composition on the heat flux profile from process burners as measured in large pilot-scale test furnaces. Firing rate and excess air had a significant effect on the heat flux profiles while the fuel gas blends studied here had a negligible impact.
Exact Closure Procedures of Hierarchical VAT Capillary Thermo-Convective Problem for Turbulent and Laminar Regimes
Authors: Travkin V. S. , Hu K. , Catton I.
Published: November 2021

Volume Averaging Theory (VAT), an effective and rigorous approach for study of transport (laminar and turbulent) phenomena, is used to model flow and heat transfer in porous media. The modeling is based on a simple pore level network. The primary difficulties in applying VAT to straight capillary networks, the many unknown integral and differential terms that are needed for closure, are overcome. VAT based modeling of pore level transport in straight capillaries results in two sets of scale governing equations. One scale is the upper scale VAT equations which describe ensemble properties for flow and heat transfer in porous media. The other scale is the lower scale laminar and turbulent transport equations that represent flow and heat transport in each straight pore capillary. It is how the unknown VAT terms in the upper scale equations can be estimated using the relationships between upper scale properties and lower scale properties. Exact closures and mathematical procedures are developed for the turbulent regime, extending the previous laminar regime work. Numerical results for turbulent and laminar transport in straight capillary porous media are shown in this paper.
Two-Phase Refrigerant Mixture (R-407C) Flow in Smooth Meso-Scale Heat Exchangers
Authors: Shariff Yasir M. , Ravigururajan T. S.
Published: November 2021

The paper presents results from an experimental study on refrigerant mixture flow (R-407C) in which the heat transfer coefficient was measured across a range of heat and mass fluxes. Flow characteristics in smooth horizontal mesochannels were measured for two different conditions, 1) subcooled and 2) saturated boiling with diameters of 1.59, 2.78, and 3.97 mm and a length of 50.8 mm in refrigerant mixture (R-407C). Experiments were performed at heat fluxes of 2 and 11 kW/m2 for the subcooled boiling and 15 and 29 kW/m2 for the saturated boiling. The mass flux was varied from 0.45 to 1.55 kg/min and the refrigerant was subcooled to 8°C. The saturated boiling experiments were conducted for ΔTsat = 0 to 27°C. The heat transfer coefficients were found to be dependent on channel size, heat flux, and mass flux variations. For smaller channel diameters, the heat transfer rate significantly increased as compared to larger channel diameters. The results showed an increase of 100% in heat transfer coefficient when compared to traditional and micro-channel boiling characteristics.
Numerical Simulation of RF Heating for a SIC Vapor Growth System
Authors: Ma R.-H. , Zhang H. , Prasad V. , Ha S. , Skowronski M.
Published: November 2021

A numerical model has been developed to calculate the magnetic potential and temperature distribution in a RF heating system used for a SiC vapor growth system. The magnetic vector potential is calculated by solving the Maxwell equations. The heating power generated in the graphite susceptor is obtained using the Joules law. The temperature profile in a growth chamber is then calculated by solving the energy transport equation with induction heat as a source term. Two sets of grid system have been used to speed up the calculation. The frequency of RF heating and coil current are found to have significant impact on heat generation and its distribution in the graphite susceptor. The maximum temperature in the crucible has a linear relationship with the input power; however, the power input does not influence significantly the temperature gradient. To optimize the heating system for a SiC vapor growth system, the current, frequency, and geometry need to be carefully designed.