bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An Interdisciplinary Mixed-Method Approach to the Evaluation of a Novel Water Treatment Technology in Eastern Uganda
Authors: Burleson Grace , MacCarty Nordica , Sharp Kendra , Tilt Bryan 
Published: November 2018

Researchers are calling on practitioners to use more robust mixed-method approaches in program and product evaluations in the global development sector. Using qualitative and quantitative research methods from both experimental engineering and applied anthropology fields can provide more holistic and accurate information regarding potential impact and application of a product or program in its actual usage context.
This paper presents a mixed-method approach for the evaluation of a new water treatment technology, the InStove Water Purifier. A combination of technical and ethnographic methods are used to estimate the product’s efficacy in a high-school dormitory in Mbale, a city in Eastern Uganda. Methods include participant observation, focal follow, time allocation and data collection of system parameters including fuel usage, flowrate, and temperature. Additionally, a holistic approach to water treatment implementation is applied by experimentally evaluating water storage treatment methods to prevent recontamination of water before its point-of-use.
This study highlights the importance of method triangulation and, more specifically, the value of ethnographic methods to evaluate engineering solutions. While two methods concluded statistically insignificant results (time allocation and fuel usage) due to limited sample size and duration of the study, this work emphasizes the value that comes from working closely with end-users in an uncontrolled experimental environment.
Informal interviewing during participant observation combined with time allocation and fuel usage data show a high potential for user acceptance due to the Purifier’s time and fuel savings (42% and 67% savings; respectively), increased water capacity, and reduction of emissions. Potential barriers to user adoption of the Purifier, identified in this study, include the trust required by users, lack of water outlet temperature control, and a size change of fuel wood. These findings have been reported to InStove, the manufacturer of the product, to begin design modifications to improve its potential impact to users.
Ultimately, this paper aims to encourage engineering practitioners to become more comfortable performing ethnographic methods and integrating qualitative data to more accurately evaluate their projects in the field and provide design changes that increase user adoption and sustained impact.
Visual Similarity to Aid Alternative-Use Concept Generation for Retired Wind-Turbine Blades
Authors: Kwon E. , Pehlken A. , Thoben K.-D. , Bazylak A. , Shu L. H. 
Published: November 2018

This work is motivated by finding alternative uses for retired wind-turbine blades, which have limited disposal options. Two reuse concept-generation activities (CGA) conducted in German universities revealed difficulties with the parts’ large scale and seeing beyond their original use. Existing methods, e.g., using functional analogy, are less applicable, since for safety reasons, these parts should not be reused in the same function.
Therefore, this work explores the use of visual similarity to support reuse-concept generation. A method was developed that 1) finds visually similar images (VSI) for wind-turbine-blade photos; and 2) derives potential-reuse concepts based on objects that are visually similar to wind-turbine blades in these images.
Comparing reuse concepts generated from the two methods, VSI produced fewer smaller-than-scale concepts than CGA. While other qualities like feasibility depend on the specific photo selected, this work provides a new framework to exploit visual similarity to find alternative uses. As demonstrated for wind-turbine blades, this method aids in generating alternative-use concepts, especially for large-scale objects.
Integrating Intelligence and Knowledge of Human Factors to Facilitate Collaboration in Manufacturing
Authors: Oliff Harley , Liu Ying , Kumar Maneesh , Williams Michael 
Published: November 2018

The implementation of automation has become a common occurrence in recent years, and automated robotic systems are actively used in many manufacturing processes. However, fully automated manufacturing systems are far less common, and human operators remain prevalent. The resulting scenario is one where human and robotic operators work in close proximity, and directly affect the behavior of one another. Conversely to their robotic counterparts, human beings do not share the same level of repeatability or accuracy, and as such can be a source of uncertainty in such processes.
Concurrently, the emergence of intelligent manufacturing has presented opportunities for adaptability within robotic control. This work examines relevant human factors and develops a learning model to examine how to utilize this knowledge and provide appropriate adaptability to robotic elements, with the intention of improving collaborative interaction with human colleagues, and optimized performance. The work is supported by an example case-study, which explores the application of such a control system, and its performance in a real-world production scenario.
Design of a Variable-Mobility Linkage Using the Bohemian Dome
Authors: López-Custodio P. C. , Dai J. S. 
Published: November 2018

The properties of the Bohemian dome are studied and it is found that for a particular type of Bohemian dome two different parameterizations based on the translation of circles can be obtained for the same surface, therefore, two different hybrid kinematic chains can be designed to generate the same Bohemian dome. These surface generators are reconfigurable and can generate two different surfaces each. Parameterizations for the secondary surfaces are obtained and studied. These hybrid kinematic chains are used to design a kinematotropic linkage with a total of 27 motion branches in its configuration space. The singularities in the configuration space are also determined using the properties of the surfaces. The resultant linkage offers an explanation of Wholhart’s queer-square linkage other than paper folding.
The relationship between the properties of self-intersections in generated surfaces and the configuration space of the generator linkage is studied for the first time leading to the description of motion branches related to self-intersections of generated surfaces.
A Statistical Approach to Ranking Similarities of Three Function Structure Groups Using Directed Graphs
Authors: Lucero Briana M. , Adams Matthew J. 
Published: November 2018

Prior efforts in the study of engineering design employed various approaches to decompose product design. Design engineers use functional representation, and more precisely function structures, to define a product’s functionality. However, significant barriers remain to objectively quantifying the similarity between two function structures, even for the same product when developed by multiple designers. For function-structure databases this means that function-structures are implicitly categorized leaving the possibility of incorrect categorization and reducing efficacy of returned analogous correlations. Improvements to efficacy in database organization and queries are possible by objectively quantifying the similarity between function structures.
The proposed method exploits fundamental properties of function-structures and design taxonomies. We convert function-structures into directed graphs (digraphs) and equivalent adjacency matrices. The conversion maintains the directed (function → flow → function) progression inherent to function-structures and enables the transformation of the function-structure into a standardized graph. For design taxonomies (e.g. D-APPS), graph nodes represent flows in a consistent (but arbitrary) ordering. By exploiting the directional properties of function-structures and defining the flows as the graphical nodes, the objective and standardized comparison of two function-structures becomes feasible. We statistically quantify the association between digraphs using the Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) for both within-group and between-group comparisons. The method was tested on three product types (ball thrower, food processor, and an ice cream maker) with function-structures defined by various designers. The method suggested herein is provided as a proof-of-concept with suggested verification and validation approaches for further development.
An Investigation Into the Dynamics of a Pipe Aspirating Fluid
Authors: Butt Muhammad Faisal Javed , Paidoussis Michael P. , Nahon Meyer 
Published: November 2018

Pipes aspirating fluid have applications in the filling and recovery processes for underground caverns — large subterranean cavities used to store hydrocarbons, such as natural gas and oil. This paper deals with the dynamics of a vertical cantilevered flexible pipe, immersed in fluid. Fluid is aspirated from its bottom free end up to the fixed upper end. In this study, the working fluid is assumed to be water.
An existing analytical model is used to predict the dynamical behaviour of the aspirating pipe. This model is then discretized with Galerkin’s method, using Euler-Bernoulli eigen-functions for cantilevered beam as comparison functions. Once solved, the model results show a unique kind of flutter comprising three regions, denoted regions 01–03. These regions are delineated by two critical flow velocities, Ucf1 and Ucf2. In addition, two frequencies of oscillation, f1 and f2, are found to characterize the aforementioned flutter. The dominant frequency of oscillation changes from f1 to f2 as the flow velocity is increased from approximately 3 to 6 m/s — a frequency exchange phenomenon observed and reported here for the first time for this system. The analytical/numerical study was followed by a corresponding experimental study. Experiments were performed on a flexible (Silastic) pipe that was completely submerged in water. The behaviour observed experimentally was similar to the numerical study, as the aspirating fluid velocity was increased from zero to 7 m/s.
Development of a System Model for Low-Cost, Solar-Powered Drip Irrigation Systems in the MENA Region
Authors: Sokol Julia , Grant Fiona , Sheline Carolyn , Winter Amos 
Published: November 2018

Drip irrigation has the potential to conserve water and increase crop yields. However, existing drip irrigation systems often require high pumping power, making them financially inaccessible to smallholder farmers. Integrating a holistic system model with a cost-optimization scheme can enable the design and implementation of low-cost, solar-powered drip irrigations systems, ultimately making this technology more cost-effective for smallholder farmers.
This paper describes the algorithms comprising an integrated model of solar-powered drip irrigation systems, consisting of agronomic, hydraulic, pump, and power system modules. It also introduces a preliminary optimization scheme for the power system, which uses the system hydraulics and pump curve to select an optimal solar array and energy storage configuration that minimizes capital cost.
The system model and power system optimization is applied to three case studies, and the resulting power system configurations are compared to outputs from commercially-available software for sizing solar pumping systems. The results show that the model successfully captures the nuances in crop type, local weather patterns, and hydraulic system layout between different cases. This offers a greater level of flexibility than commercially available software, which tends to have broader applications and focuses on larger systems. Future model generations will add more variables to the optimization scheme — including pump selection, variable emitter flow rates and pipe geometries — to provide a versatile design tool for cost-optimized, solar-powered drip irrigation systems.
Empowering Graduate Engineering Students With Proficiency in Autonomy
Authors: Raman Adhiti T. , Krovi Venkat N. , Schmid Matthias J. A. 
Published: November 2018

A new class of distributed, autonomous systems is emerging, capable of exploiting multimodal distributed and networked spatial and temporal data (at significantly larger scales). A renaissance autonomy engineer requires proficiency in both traditional engineering concepts as well as a systems engineering skillset for implementing the ensuing complex systems.
In this paper, we describe goals, development and first offering of a scaffolded course: “AuE 893 Autonomy: Science and Systems” to begin addressing this goal. Geared towards graduate engineering students, with limited prior exposure, the course complements the concepts from traditional courses (on mobile-robotics) with experiential hands-on system-integration efforts (building on the F1tenth.org kits).
The staged course structure initially builds upon open-source Robotics Operating System (ROS) tutorials on simulated systems (Gazebo/RViz) with networked communication; Hardware-in-the-loop realization (with a Turtlebot platform) then aids the exploration (and reinforcement) of autonomy concepts. The course culminates in a final-project comprising performance testing with student-team integrated scaled Autonomous Remote Control cars (based on the F1tenth.org parts-list). All three student teams were successful in navigating around a closed racecourse at speeds of 10–15 miles per hour, using Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) for situational awareness and obstacle-avoidance. We conclude with discussion of lessons-learnt and opportunities for future improvement.
Effect of the Use of a Noncircular Chainring on the Power Delivered by Recreational Cyclists
Authors: Polanco Alejandra , Tarazona Camilo , Suárez Daniel , Muñoz Luis 
Published: November 2018

There is no agreement on the effect that noncircular chainrings have on cyclists when compared with circular ones. In this research, the effect of the use of noncircular chainrings by recreational cyclists is assessed in terms of power delivery indicators. Two complementary approaches based on experimental tests and numerical models are used to study the differences between the results obtained by using circular and noncircular chainrings. The first approach intends to estimate the changes in the transmission system in terms of mechanical advantage when using different chainrings. The model considers that the point of tangency between the chain and the noncircular chainring varies during the rotation. The second approach aims at comparing the power delivery capacity when using different chainrings. A series of constant power tests until exhaustion is performed with each chainring to obtain the power-time relation at different exertion rates.
As a result of this work, a refined model for obtaining the mechanical advantage of the transmission of the bicycle was proposed and validated. Additionally, the effects of the change of the chainring on the cyclists were assessed on a pilot test with two recreational cyclists, registering a change in the behavior of the power delivery capacity during intensive efforts for short periods of time.
Advances in Molecular Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases: Definitions, Approaches, and Scope of the Field
Authors: Riley Lee W. , Blanton Ronald E. 
Published: November 2018

ABSTRACTMolecular epidemiology is a discipline that uses molecular microbiology tools to study the distribution and determinants of diseases in human populations and veterinary animals. Our understanding of epidemiology of infectious diseases has evolved with technological advancements made in molecular biology that refine our perception of the identity and dynamics of microorganisms. This review is an introduction to theMicrobiology SpectrumCurated Collection: Advances in Molecular Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases that will discuss how these advancements have contributed to investigations of infectious disease outbreaks/epidemics, surveillance, transmission dynamics, risk factor identification, pathogenesis, and etiologic attribution of bacterial, viral, protozoan, and helminthic pathogens to a disease. Here we define “molecular epidemiology” and distinguish it from other disciplines that use many of the same molecular biology tools—taxonomy, phylogenetics, and molecular evolution of microorganisms. The Curated Collection will be spread throughout multiple issues ofMicrobiology Spectrumand will be divided into four general sections: (i) laboratory methods used to strain type microbial pathogens, (ii) methods used to analyze genotyping data, (iii) examples of molecular epidemiologic investigations of bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases, and (iv) applications of molecular epidemiology to address new research questions in communicable and noncommunicable diseases. The major theme of this Curated Collection is to address the following question frequently asked by clinicians, clinical microbiologists, and public health professionals: what is the advantage or unique contribution of molecular epidemiology in solving infectious disease problems in the clinical and public health arenas?*This article is part of a curated collection.
Trainee-led versus specialist-led management of neovascular age-related macular degeneration: a registry-based study
Authors: Essex Rohan W , Nguyen Vuong , Daien Vincent , Steinmann Sarah , Walton Richard , Gillies Mark C , Barthelmes Daniel 
Published: November 2018

ObjectiveTo compare the outcomes of trainee-led and specialist-led management of neovascular age-related macular degeneration.DesignProspective multicentre registry-based observational study.SettingOphthalmology training centres in Australia and Europe where both trainee-led and specialist-led models of care coexist.ParticipantsTreatment-naïve eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration and at least 12 months follow-up. 726 eyes were included in the study from two centres, 534 receiving trainee-led treatment and 192 specialist-led treatment.InterventionsThe management and outcomes of patients receiving trainee-led care were compared with those receiving specialist-led care.Main outcomes measuresThe primary outcome was the mean change in visual acuity at 12 months from first injection. Outcomes were also presented at 36 months where available.ResultsThe mean age of participants was 79 years and 65% were female. The adjusted change in acuity at 12 months in trainee-led vs specialist-led eyes was +3.2 letters vs +4.1 letters (difference −0.9 letters, 95% CI −3.4 to 1.5, p=0.473). The mean adjusted change in acuity at 36 months was −0.9 letters in trainees vs +0.2 letters for specialists (difference −1.1 letters, 95% CI −5.1 to 2.9, p=0.596). Eyes treated by trainees received fewer injections on average to 36 months (15.0 vs 19.0, p=0.004), although this trend was observed at one centre only.ConclusionsNo significant differences in outcome between eyes managed by trainees and eyes managed by specialists were observed. Appropriately structured trainee-led management of neovascular age-related macular degeneration is a reasonable approach where regulatory and practical considerations allow it.
Impact of a treatment escalation/limitation plan on non-beneficial interventions and harms in patients during their last admission before in-hospital death, using the Structured Judgment Review Method
Authors: Lightbody Calvin J , Campbell Jonathan N , Herbison G Peter , Osborne Heather K , Radley Alice , Taylor D Robin 
Published: November 2018

ObjectivesTo assess the effect of using a treatment escalation/limitation plan (TELP) on the frequency of harms in 300 patients who died following admission to hospital.DesignA retrospective case note review of 300 unselected, consecutive deaths comprising: (1) patients with a TELP in addition to a do-not-attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation order (DNACPR); (2) those with DNACPR only; and (3) those with neither. Patient deaths were classified retrospectively as ‘expected’ or ‘unexpected’ using the Gold Standard Framework Prognostic Indicator Guidance.SettingMedical, surgical and intensive care units of a district general hospital.OutcomesThe primary outcome was the between-group difference in rates of harms, non-beneficial interventions (NBIs) and clinical ‘problems’ identified using the Structured Judgement Review Method.Results289 case records were evaluable. 155 had a TELP and DNACPR (54%); 113 had DNACPR only (39%); 21 had neither (7%). 247 deaths (86%) were ‘expected’. Among patients with ‘expected’ deaths and using the TELP/DNACPR as controls (incidence rate ratio (IRR)=1.00), the IRRs were: for harms, 2.99 (DNACPR only) and 4.00 (neither TELP nor DNACPR) (p<0.001 for both); for NBIs, the corresponding IRRs were 2.23 (DNACPR only) and 2.20 (neither) (p<0.001 and p<0.005, respectively); for ‘problems’, 2.30 (DNACPR only) and 2.76 (neither) (p<0.001 for both). The rates of harms, NBIs and ‘problems’ were significantly lower in the group with a TELP/DNACPR compared with ‘DNACPR only’ and ‘neither’: harms (per 1000 bed days) 17.1, 76.9 (p<0.001) and 197.8 (p<0.001) respectively; NBIs: 27.4, 92.1 (p<0.001) and 172.4 (p<0.001); and ‘problems’: 42.3, 146.2 (p<0.01) and 333.3 (p<0.001).ConclusionsThe use of a TELP was associated with a significant reduction in harms, NBIs and ‘problems’ in patients admitted acutely and who subsequently died, especially if they were likely to be in the last year of life.
Different levels of facial expression recognition in patients with first-episode schizophrenia: A functional MRI study
Authors: Yang Chengqing , Qi Ansi , Yu Huangfang , Guan Xiaofeng , Wang Jijun , Liu Na , Zhang Tianhong , Li Hui , Zhou Hui , Zhu Junjuan , Huang Nan , Tang Yingying , Lu Zheng 
Published: November 2018

BackgroundThe impairment of facial expression recognition has become a biomarker for early identification of first-episode schizophrenia, and this kind of research is increasing.AimsTo explore the differences in brain area activation using different degrees of disgusted facial expression recognition in antipsychotic-naïve patients with first-episode schizophrenia and healthy controls.MethodsIn this study, facial expression recognition tests were performed on 30 first-episode, antipsychotic-naïve patients with schizophrenia (treatment group) and 30 healthy subjects (control group) with matched age, educational attainment and gender. Functional MRI was used for comparing the differences of the brain areas of activation between the two groups.ResultsThe average response time difference between the patient group and the control group in the ‘high degree of disgust’ facial expression recognition task was statistically significant (1.359 (0.408)/2.193 (0.625), F=26.65, p<0.001), and the correct recognition rate of the treatment group was lower than that of the control group (41.05 (22.25)/59.84 (13.91, F=19.81, p<0.001). Compared with the control group, the left thalamus, right lingual gyrus and right middle temporal gyrus were negatively activated in the patients with first-episode schizophrenia in the ‘high degree of disgust’ emotion recognition, and there was a significant activation in the left and right middle temporal gyrus and the right caudate nucleus. However, there was no significant activation difference in the ‘low degree of disgust’ recognition.ConclusionsIn patients with first-episode schizophrenia, the areas of facial recognition impairment are significantly different in different degrees of disgust facial expression recognition.