59 articles found
Multifractal Cross Correlation Analysis of Agro-meteorological Datasets (Including Reference Evapotranspiration) of California, United States
Adarsh Sankaran, Jaromir Krzyszczak, Piotr Baranowski, Archana Devarajan Sindhu, Nandhinee Krishna Pradeep, Nithyanjali Lija Jayaprakash, Vandana Thankamani, Mumtaz Ali
Subject: Biology, Anatomy & Morphology Keywords: Reference evapotranspiration; agro-meteorological; multifractal; scaling; cross-correlations; persistence
This paper examined the multifractal properties of six acknowledged agro-meteorological parameters, such as reference evapotranspiration (ET0), wind speed (U), incoming solar radiation (SR), air temperature (T), air pressure (P), and relative air humidity (RH) of five stations in California, USA. The investigation of multifractality of datasets from stations with differing terrain conditions: Dagget, Bakersfield, Santa Maria, Los Angeles and San Diego using the Multifractal Detrended Fluctuation Analysis showed the existence of a long term persistence and multifractality irrespective of the location. The scaling exponents of SR and ET0 time series are found to be higher for stations with higher altitudes. Subsequently, this study proposed using the novel multifractal cross correlation (MFCCA) method to examine the multiscale-multifractal correlations properties between ET0 and other investigated variables. MFCCA could successfully capture the scale dependent association of different variables and the dynamics in the nature of their associations from seasonal to multi-annual time scale. The multifractal exponents of pressure and relative air humidity are consistently lower than the exponents of ET0, irrespective of station location. This study found that joint scaling exponent was nearly the average of scaling exponents of individual series in different pairs of variables. Additionally, the α-values of joint multifractal spectrum were lower than the α values of both of the individual spectra, validating two universal properties in the mutifractal cross correlation studies for agro-meteorological time series. The temporal evolution of cross-correlation showed similar pattern for all pair-wise associations involving ET0, except for the RH-ET0 link.
Changes of Reference Evapotranspiration and Its Relationships to Dry/Wet Conditions Based on Aridity Index in Songnen Grassland, Northeast China
Qiyun Ma, Jiquan Zhang, Caiyun Sun, Enliang Guo, Feng Zhang, Mengmeng Wang
Subject: Earth Sciences, Atmospheric Science Keywords: reference evapotranspiration; climatic change; drought/wet; Songnen Grassland
Reference evapotranspiration (ET0) plays an irreplaceable role in regional dry/wet conditions under the background of climate change. Based on the FAO Penman-Monteith method and daily climate variables, ET0 was calculated for 22 stations in and around Songnen Grassland, northeast China, during 1960-2014. The temporal and spatial variations of ET0 and precipitation (P) were comprehensively analyzed at different time scales by using the Mann-Kendall test, Sen's slope estimator, and linear regression coupling with break trend analysis. Sensitivity analysis was used to detect the key climate parameter attributed to ET0 change. Then, the role of ET0 in regional dry/wet conditions was discussed by analyzing the relationship between ET0, P and aridity index (AI). Results shown a higher ET0 in the southwest and a lower in the northeast, but P was opposite to that of ET0. Evidently decreasing trend of ET0 at different time scales was detected in almost the entire region, and the significant trend mainly distributed in the eastern, northeastern and central. For the whole region, sensitivity analysis indicated decreasing trend of ET0 was primarily attributed to relative humidity and maximum air temperature. The positive contribution of increasing temperature rising to ET0 was offset by the effect of significantly decreasing relative humidity, wind speed and sunshine duration. In addition, the value of ET0 shown higher in drought years and lower in wet years.
None Operational Amplifier (OPA) Based: Design of Analogous Bandgap Reference Voltage
Hao-Ping Chan, Yu-Cherng Hung
Subject: Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering Keywords: Band-gap voltage reference; voltage reference; circuit design
By using 0.35-um CMOS process, this work achieves a design of analogous band-gap reference voltage circuit with low temperature coefficient. The proposed circuit operates at 3V and generates a reference current of 44 uA. The HSPICE simulation results show the temperature coefficient of this circuit is 23 ppm/℃ at range of -10 ℃ to 100 ℃, and the line regulation (the ratio of output current variation to supply voltage variation) is estimated as 1.95 uA/V from supply voltage variation of 3 V to 5 V. The experimental chip is fabricated and measured. The circuit provides adjustable capability for output voltage among temperature variation of -10 - 100 ℃. The chip area is 534 × 695 um^2. In this new design, the operational amplifier is not necessary. The chip design effort can be great reduced.
The Discrepancy in Galaxy Rotation Curves
Roy Gomel, Tomer Zimmerman
Subject: Physical Sciences, Astronomy & Astrophysics Keywords: dark matter; reference frames; galaxies
In this work we try a new approach for dealing with the discrepancy between observed galaxy rotation curves and theoretical predictions. This new approach does not involve any changes in the current fundamental laws of nature or the addition of dark halos. Rather, it is based on the following single assumption: the observed velocities presented in rotation curves are not given relative to the galaxies' local inertial frames. Another way of putting it down: fictitious forces, which arise in non-inertial frames, should be taken into account when constructing a theoretical rotation curve. It turns out that this single assumption is sufficient in order to establish a robust model for fitting rotation curves. Applying the new model on a sample of more than 30 galaxies provides very promising results.
Tropical Forests in the Context of Climate Change: From Drivers, Policies to REDD+ Actions and Intensity Analysis – A Review
Yawovi S. Koglo, Wilson A. Agyare, Grace Villamor, Kouami Kokou, Thomas Gaiser, Jean M. Sogbedji, Tiga Neya, Soule Moussa
Subject: Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences Keywords: deforestation; forest degradation; forest reference level; forest reference emission level; REDD+; intensity analysis; GHG; Togo
Accurate forest reference and emission level (FRL, FREL) with related policies and regulations are the key determinants in establishing sustainable forest ecosystem management programmes (e.g. REDD+). This fundamental is for promoting and sustaining climate smart agricultural practices in a changing climate. With the aim to deliver better knowledge to the scientific community and policy makers on regulations and existing tools for more rigorous scientific communication when it comes to FRL and FREL accountability and policies. Thus, this review investigates forest in the changing climate and policies and underlines the performance of land use transition and intensity analysis towards deforestation with some key examples and achievements (e.g. Togo). Simply put, (i) forest as break of greenhouse gas (GHGs) and ecosystem regulator, (ii) policies and REDD+ actions, (iii) potential drivers and (iv) transition and intensity analysis approach for their accountability are discussed. In sum, impressive studies, policies and regulations are under initiations and implementations regarding the role, place and evaluation of forest losses and its ecosystem functions and services. However, there are still some gaps when it comes to: the choice of the evaluation methods in the real context of a specific ecosystem as well as the firm implementations of formulating policies in developing countries. This paper concludes with some policy measures for forest sustainability, carbon enhancement and accountability.
Einstein's Special Principle of Relativity and the Translation of Physical Laws
Rudolf Fullybright
Subject: Physical Sciences, Acoustics Keywords: relativity; special principle; translation; reference frame; law.
Similarly to his special theory of relativity, Einstein's special principle of relativity extends beyond the limits currently known to it. Up to now, the principle has not been suspected to have the potential to translate scientific laws. However, the principle holds an inherent capacity to translate scientific laws and, in so doing, speeds up our understanding of and strengthens our capacity to control physical reality. Such a translation of laws leads to the faster discovery of other scientific laws, such as the Laws of Electronic Motion, characterizing the motion of electrons around the atomic nucleus, and the Third Law of Biological Resistance, facilitating the successful control of drug resistance in medicine and pest resistance in agriculture. The ability of Einstein's special principle of relativity to translate scientific laws shines forth once the said principle is duly interpreted. This interpretation exposes a parallelism between experimental frames of reference and justifies the applicability of the scientific laws of one frame of reference in other parallel frames of reference. This process opens the door to our faster discovery of the scientific laws governing a multiplicity of frames parallel to a frame we already know the laws of. In practice, the interpretation of Einstein's special principle of relativity speeds up and strengthens our understanding and capacity to control physical reality.
Modeling Popularity and Reliability of Sources in Multilingual Wikipedia
Włodzimierz Lewoniewski, Krzysztof Węcel, Witold Abramowicz
Subject: Mathematics & Computer Science, Information Technology & Data Management Keywords: Wikipedia; reference; source; reliability; popularity; Wikidata, DBpedia
Online: 31 March 2020 (22:18:51 CEST)
One of the most important factors impacting quality of content in Wikipedia is presence of credible sources. By following references readers can verify facts or find more details about described topic. A Wikipedia article can be edited independently in any of over 300 languages, even by anonymous users, therefore information about the same topic may be inconsistent. This also applies to use of references in different language versions of a particular article, so the same statement can have different sources. In this paper we analyzed over 40 million articles from the 55 most developed language versions of Wikipedia to extract information about nearly 200 million references and find the most popular and reliable sources. We presented 10 models for the assessment of the popularity and reliability of the sources based on analysis of meta information about the references in Wikipedia articles, page views and authors of the articles. Using DBpedia and Wikidata we automatically identified the alignment of the sources to a specific domain. Additionally, we analyzed the changes of popularity and reliability in time and identified growth leaders in each considered months. The results can be used for quality improvements of the content in different languages versions of Wikipedia.
Calibration Completes the Quantum-Mechanical Description of Physical Reality
Ken Krechmer
Subject: Physical Sciences, General & Theoretical Physics Keywords: uncertainty; metrology; remote entanglement; calibration, standard; reference frame
This paper is a response to the EPR paper titled: "Can quantum-mechanical description of physical reality be considered complete?", published in Physical Review in 1935. A quantum-mechanical (QM) measurement function describes a distribution of local results and each empirical measurement process produces one result as exact as allowed by a measuring instrument calibrated to a non-local unit standard. Repeating these empirical measurements produces a bell shaped distribution of measurement results. Each of these distributions can be compared to the other. To precisely compare a QM measurement function describing a distribution of eigenvectors to a distribution of repetitive empirical measurement results, it is necessary to determine, by calibration, the precision of the eigenvectors to the same standard as the empirical results, because each eigenvector evidences uncertainty relative to a standard. When the calibration process is recognized as formal as well as empirical, QM measurement function results and metrology measurement process results are unified.
Evaluation of Reference Genes for qRT-PCR Normalization in Angelica decursiva under Various Experimental Conditions
Yuedong He, Yuan Zhong, Zhenzhen Bao, Weiqi Wang, Xiaoqing Xu, Yanan Gai, Jie Wu
Subject: Biology, Anatomy & Morphology Keywords: qRT-PCR; reference gene; Angelica decursiva; expression stability
Angelica decursiva is one of the lending traditional Chinese medicinal plants producing coumarins. Notably, several studies have focused on the biosynthesis and not the qRT-PCR (quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction) study of coumarins. This qRT-PCR technique has been extensively used to investigate gene expression levels in plants and the selection of reference genes which plays a crucial role in standardizing the data form the qRT-PCR analysis. In our study, 11 candidate reference genes were selected from the existing transcriptome data of Angelica decursiva. Here, four different types of statistical algorithms (geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and Delta Ct) were used to calculate and evaluate the stability of gene expression under different external treatments. Subsequently, RefFinder analysis was used to determine the geometric average of each candidate gene ranking, and to perform comprehensive index ranking. The obtained results showed that among all the 11 candidate reference genes, SAND family protein (SAND), protein phosphatase 2A gene (PP2A), and polypyrimidine tract-binding protein (PTBP) were the most stable reference genes, where Nuclear cap binding protein 2 (NCBP2), TIP41-like protein (TIP41), and Beta-6-tubulin (TUBA) were the least stable genes. To the best of our knowledge, this work is the first to evaluate the stability of reference genes in the Angelica decursiva which has provided an important foundation on the use of qRT-PCR for an accurate and far-reaching gene expression analysis in this medicinal plant.
Opening the Black-box of Imputation Software to Study the Impact of Reference Panel Composition on Performance
Thibault Dekeyser, Emmanuelle Génin, Anthony F. Herzig
Subject: Life Sciences, Genetics Keywords: genotype imputation; population genetics; rare-variants; reference panel; admixture
Genotype imputation is widely used to enrich genetic datasets. The operation relies of panels of known reference haplotypes with typically whole-genome sequencing data. How to choose a reference panel has been widely studied and it is essential to have a panel that is well matched to the individuals who require imputation of missing genotypes. However, it is broadly accepted that such an imputation panel will have an enhanced performance with the inclusion of diversity; haplotypes from many different populations. We investigate this observation in this work by examining in fine detail exactly which reference haplotypes are contributing at different regions of the genome. This is achieved using a novel method of inserting synthetic genetic variation into the reference panel in order to track the performance of leading imputation algorithms. We show that while diversity may globally improve imputation accuracy, there can be occasions where incorrect genotypes are imputed following the inclusion of more diverse haplotypes in the reference panel. We however demonstrate a technique for retaining and benefitting from the diversity in the reference panel whilst avoiding the occasional adverse effects on imputation accuracy. What is more, our results elucidate more clearly the role of the diversity in a reference panel than has been shown in previous studies.
Diversity in Typhoid Diagnostic Protocols And Recommendation for Composite Reference Standard
Bernard Igiri, Stanley Irobekhian Reuben Okoduwa, Shaibu Ahmed Munirat, Iquo Bassey Otu-Bassey, Abdullahi Bashir, Otori Mercy Onyiyioza, Idongesit A. Enang, Ugochi Judith Okoduwa
Subject: Life Sciences, Biochemistry Keywords: Typhoid fever; Diagnostic; Metabolomics; Composite reference standard; Accuracy; Sensitivity.
Typhoid fever is a major public health burden which causes substantial global morbidity and mortality due to lack of decisive diagnostic protocols. The capacity of commonly use diagnostic test to validate the absence of typhoid fever is controversial. This study explores to evaluate new techniques for typhoid diagnosis and proposed a harmonised suitable standardized composite reference to be adopted. Published peer-reviewed articles indexed in PubMed, MEDLINE and Google scholar were reviewed for hospital-based studies. This study reveals new typhoid diagnostic techniques such as proteomics, serology, Rapid Diagnostic tests (RDTs), transcriptomics, genomics, and metabolomics. 34.4% of the studies use prospective study design. The study result establishes that, Widal test has a moderate diagnostic accuracy with average percentage sensitivity (52.9%), specificity (54%), positive predictive value (PPV) (56.8%) as well as negative predictive value (NPV) (55.6%) when compared with 29.4%, 28%, 29.5%, and 27.8% of Typhidot respectively. The findings showed a statistically significant difference on the sensitivity between Widal and Typhidot t (40) = 2.639, p = 0.012 at p<0.05 using independent sample t-test. When there is no perfect reference standard that has an optimal diagnostic accuracy, the need for a harmonised suitable standardized composite reference is essential. Hence, this study recommends that, peripheral blood culture with established sensitivity of 60% and Widal test with average sensitivity of 52.9% be adopted as a consensus composite reference standard for typhoid fever diagnosis in other to improve confidence in prevalence estimates.
The Effects of Inertial Forces on the Dynamics of Disk Galaxies
Tomer Zimmerman, Roy Gomel
Subject: Physical Sciences, Astronomy & Astrophysics Keywords: reference systems; galaxies: kinematics and dynamics; cosmology: dark matter
When dealing with galactic dynamics, or more specifically, with galactic rotation curves, one basic assumption is always taken: the frame of reference relative to which the rotational velocities are given is assumed to be inertial. In other words, fictitious forces are assumed to vanish relative to the observational frame of a given galaxy. It might be interesting, however, to explore the outcomes of dropping that assumption; that is, to search for signatures of non-inertial behavior in the observed data. In this work, we show that the very discrepancy in galaxy rotation curves could be attributed to non-inertial effects. We derive a model for spiral galaxies that takes into account the possible influence of fictitious forces and find that the additional terms in the new model, due to fictitious forces, closely resemble dark halo profiles. Following this result, we apply the new model to a wide sample of galaxies, spanning a large range of luminosities and radii. It turns out that the new model accurately reproduces the structures of the rotation curves and provides very good fittings to the data.
Isolated Neutropenia/Benign Ethnic Neutropenia: A Common Clinical and Laboratory Finding in Southern and Southwestern Saudi Arabia
Zuhier A. Awan, Saeed M. Al Amoudi, Muhammad Saboor, Husain Y. Alkhaldy
Subject: Medicine & Pharmacology, Allergology Keywords: isolated neutropenia; benign ethnic neutropenia; reference intervals; Saudi Arabia
Objectives: Isolated mild neutropenia is a common clinical problem. The current study aims to validate our previous findings regarding the high prevalence of isolated neutropenia in Southern and Southwestern Saudi Arabia and explore the effect of altitude or regional differences. Methods: In this retrospective cross-sectional study, laboratory results of a commercial laboratory were screened over a period of 5 years (2016–2020) in seven different cities in South and southwestern Saudi Arabia. Participants' laboratory investigations were reviewed and excluded for any ab-normal complete blood count, renal profile, liver profile, lipid profile, thyroid function test, fasting blood glucose, or HbA1c findings. Descriptive analysis and 95th percentile range were calculated using standard statistical methods. Results: A total of 91,880 complete blood count results were included in the final analysis. isolated neutropenia is common laboratory finding, with a prevalence ranging from 11-23%. The 2.5th percentile of the neutrophil count was lower than 1.5×109/L in all seven cities. Conclusions: Mild to moderate neutropenia is common in Southern and Southwestern Saudi Arabia. Benign ethnic neutropenia (BEN) may explain this high prevalence. Since BEN has no clinical significance, the reference range for normal neutrophil counts needs to be adjusted to reflect the effect of BEN.
Wave Patterns of Gravity-Capillary Waves from Moving Localized Sources
Vladimir Gnevyshev, Sergei Badulin
Subject: Physical Sciences, Acoustics Keywords: gravity-capillary waves; ship wake; Kelvin angle, reference solutions
We study wave patterns of gravity-capillary waves from moving localized sources within the classic setup of the problem of ship wakes. The focus is made on the co-existence of two wave systems with opposite signatures of group velocity relative to the localized source. It leads to the problem of choice of signs for phase functions of the gravity ("slow") and capillary ("fast") branches of the dispersion relation: the question generally ignored when constructing phase patterns of the solutions. We detail characteristic angles of the wake patterns: (i) angle of demarcation of gravity and capillary waves – "the phase Mach" cone, (ii) angle of the minimal group velocity of gravity-capillary waves – "the group Mach" cone, (iii, iv) angles of cusps of isophases that appear after a threshold current speed. The outer cusp cone is naturally associated with the classic cone of Kelvin for pure gravity waves. The inner one results from the effect of capillarity and tends to the "group Mach" pattern at high speeds of current. Amplitudes of the wave patterns are estimated within the recently proposed approach of reference functions for the problem of propagation of packets of linear dispersive waves. The effect of shape is discussed for elliptic reference sources.
Control Points Selection based on Maximum External Reliability for Designing Geodetic Networks
Marcelo Tomio Matsuoka, Vinicius Francisco Rofatto, Ivandro Klein, Mauricio Roberto Veronez, Luiz Gonzaga Da Silveira, João Batista Silva Neto, Ana Cristina Ramos Alves
Subject: Earth Sciences, Geoinformatics Keywords: geodetic network; outlier; reliability; reference points; surveying; quality control
Geodetic networks are essential for most geodetic, geodynamics and civil projects, such as monitoring the position and deformation of man-made structures, monitoring the crustal deformation of the Earth, establishing and maintaining a geospatial reference frame, mapping, civil engineering projects and so on. Before the installation of geodetic marks and gathering of survey data, geodetic networks need to be designed according to the pre-established quality criteria. In this study, we present a method for designing geodetic networks based on the concept of reliability. We highlight that the method discards the use of the observation vector of Gauss-Markov model. In fact, the only needs are the geometrical network configuration and the uncertainties of the observations. The aim of the proposed method is to find the optimum configuration of the geodetic control points so that the maximum influence of an outlier on the coordinates of the network is minimum. Here, the concept of Minimal Detectable Bias defines the size of the outlier and its propagation on the parameters is used to describe the external reliability. The proposed method is demonstrated by practical application of one simulated levelling network. We highlight that the method can be applied not only for geodetic network problems, but also in any branch of modern science.
Why Can the Brain (And Not a Computer) Make Sense of the Liar Paradox?
Patrick Fraser, Ricard Sole, Gemma de las Cuevas
Subject: Life Sciences, Biochemistry Keywords: Self-reference; cognition; consciousness; computation; causal structure; integrated information theory
Ordinary computing machines prohibit self-reference because it leads to logical inconsistencies and undecidability. In contrast, the human mind can understand self-referential statements without necessitating physically impossible brain states. Why can the brain make sense of self-reference? Here, we address this question by defining the Strange Loop Model, which features causal feedback between two brain modules, and circumvents the paradoxes of self-reference and negation by unfolding the inconsistency in time. We also argue that the metastable dynamics of the brain inhibit and terminate unhalting inferences. Finally, we show that the representation of logical inconsistencies in the Strange Loop Model leads to causal incongruence between brain subsystems in Integrated Information Theory.
A Novel Grid-Based Data Broadcasting Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks
Arpit Bhushan Sharma, Harshit Kargeti
Subject: Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering Keywords: dissemination node; reference coordinates; crossing point; residual energy; sink manager
A run-of-the-mill remote sensor arrange comprises numerous vitality compelled sensor hubs that are arbitrarily sent is the sensor field. Vitality is one of the most significant parts of planning an information dispersal convention for applications, for example, war zone checking, living space observing, and so on. We present EGDD, an Energy-effective Grid-based Data Dissemination plot for arbitrarily conveyed remote sensor systems. The proposed conspire is vitality effective for dealing with both sink and source portability. EGDD depends on a virtual framework-based foundation for information scattering from various versatile sources to different portable sinks. The virtual lattice of square size is built by the main source showing up in the sensor field dependent on the remaining vitality of the sensor hubs. Moreover, we proposed an askew sending calculation for inquiry and information sending which guarantees that just a single spread hub advances the question and information at once. In EGDD, substitute scattering hubs are chosen ahead of time during the lattice development procedure and the least limit vitality level is characterized for spread hubs. When the vitality of a dispersal hub arrives at the base edge esteem, it is supplanted by another spread hub. The reenactment results show that the proposed EGDD conspire is more vitality proficient when contrasted with other information scattering conventions.
Reference State and Benchmark Concepts for Better Biodiversity Conservation in Contemporary Ecosystems
Megan J. McNellie, Ian Oliver, Josh Dorrough, Simon Ferrier, Graeme Newell, Philip Gibbons
Subject: Biology, Ecology Keywords: Conservation; restoration; reference state; benchmark; vegetation; composition; structure; conceptual framework
Measuring the status and trends of biodiversity is critical for making informed decisions about the conservation, management or restoration of species, habitats and ecosystems. Defining the reference state against which status and change are measured is essential. Typically, reference states describe historical conditions, yet historical conditions are challenging to quantify, may be difficult to falsify, and may no longer be an attainable target in a contemporary ecosystem. We have constructed a conceptual framework to help inform thinking and discussion around the philosophical underpinnings of reference states and guide their application. We characterise currently recognised historical reference states and describe them as Pre-Human, Indigenous Cultural, Pre-Intensification and Hybrid-Historical. We extend the conceptual framework to include contemporary reference states as an alternative theoretical perspective. The contemporary reference state framework is a major conceptual shift that focuses on current ecological patterns and identifies areas with higher biodiversity values, regardless of the disturbance history. The specific context for which we design the contemporary conceptual frame is underpinned by an overarching goal—to maximise biodiversity conservation and restoration outcomes in existing ecosystems. The contemporary reference state framework can account for the inherent differences in the diversity of biodiversity values (e.g., species richness, habitat complexity) across spatial scales, communities and ecosystems. In contrast to historical reference states, contemporary references states are measurable and falsifiable. This 'road map of reference states' offers perspective needed to define and assess the status and trends in biodiversity and habitats. Our framework for contemporary reference states provides a tractable way for policy-makers and practitioners to navigate biodiversity assessments to maximise conservation and restoration outcomes in contemporary ecosystems. We illustrate how to define a contemporary reference state using an example from south-eastern Australia.
Selection of Target Nutrients for the Nutritional Standards of School Lunches in Korea
Meeyoung Kim, Dongwoo Kim, Jihyun Yoon
Subject: Medicine & Pharmacology, Nutrition Keywords: nhanes; foodservice; nutrition assessment; dietary reference intakes; school lunch program
The purpose of this study was to select target nutrients to be included in the nutritional standards of school lunches in Korea. The dietary intake data of children and adolescents aged 6-17 years old from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Ⅵ were analyzed for eight groups based on gender and age (6-8, 9-11, 12-14, and 15-17 years old). First, the usual intake of the 3,091 subjects was estimated and assessed to identify nutrients with insufficient or excessive intake prevalence. Along with the nutrients identified by the assessment, the energy and nutrients prioritized in the meal planning procedure of the 2015 Dietary Reference Intakes for Koreans were the initial candidates: energy, the percentages of energy from carbohydrates, protein, and fat, vitamin A, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and iron. Phosphorus was excluded due to little evidence of clinical symptoms caused by insufficient intake. Sodium was excluded because reliable data on added salt were not available among the school lunch recipes in Korea. Therefore, energy, the percentages of energy from carbohydrates, protein, and fat, vitamin A, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin C, calcium, and iron were selected to be included in the nutritional standards of school lunches in Korea.
Real-time Analysis of a Modified State Observer for Sensorless Induction Motor Drive used in Electric Vehicle Applications
Mohan Krishna S, Febin Daya J L, Sanjeevikumar Padmanaban, Lucian MIHET-POPA
Subject: Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering Keywords: state estimation; model reference; sliding mode; real-time; parameter detuning
The purpose of this work is to present an adaptive sliding mode luenberger state observer with improved disturbance rejection capability and better tracking performance under dynamic conditions. The sliding hyperplane is altered by incorporating the estimated disturbance torque with the stator currents. Also, the effects of parameter detuning on the speed convergence is observed and compared with the conventional disturbance rejection mechanism. The entire drive system is first built in simulink environment. Then, the simulink model is integrated with RT-Lab blocksets and implemented in a relatively new real-time environment using OP4500 real-time simulator. Real-time simulation and testing platforms have succeeded offline simulation and testing tools due to their reduced development time. The real-time results validate the improvement in the proposed state observer and also correspond to the performance of the actual physical model.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Protein Concentration in Japanese Healthy Older Volunteers
Tatsuya Yoshihara, Masayoshi Zaitsu, Kazuya Ito, Ryuzo Hanada, Eunhee Chung, Rie Yazawa, Yukikuni Sakata, Koki Furusho, Hiroshi Tsukikawa, Takeshi Chiyoda, Shunji Matsuki, Shin Irie
Subject: Medicine & Pharmacology, Clinical Neurology Keywords: Cerebrospinal fluid; Total protein; Reference interval; Older population; Japanese healthy volunteer
The concentration of cerebrospinal fluid total protein (CSF-TP) is important for the diagnosis of neurological emergencies. Recently, some Western studies have shown that the current upper reference limit of CSF-TP is quite low for older patients. However, little is reported about the concentration of CSF-TP in older Asian population. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the CSF-TP concentrations in Japanese healthy older volunteers. CSF samples in 69 healthy Japanese volunteers (age range: 55–73 years) were collected by lumbar puncture, and the data of CSF were retrospectively analyzed. The mean (standard deviation) CSF-TP was 41.7 (12.3) mg/dL. The older group (≥ 65 years old) had higher CSF-TP concentration than the younger group (55–64 years old). The 2.5th percentile and 97.5th percentile of CSF-TP were estimated as 22.5 and 73.2 mg/dL, respectively, which were higher than the current reference range in Japan (10–40 mg/dL).
A Novel Method for Calculating the Product Category Specific Setpoint Variations for Heat Emitters in EN15316-2
Karl-Villem Võsa, Andrea Ferrantelli, Jarek Kurnitski
Subject: Engineering, Civil Engineering Keywords: emission efficiency; heat emission; setpoint variation; operative temperature; European Reference Room
Estimating heat emission losses of heating systems is an important task of energy efficiency assessments in buildings. To this aim, the present international standards contain tabulated values for different emitter and control system configurations, without however explaining how to compute the effect of increased setpoint temperatures on the system losses. Moreover, the effects of each component are treated as independent, while e.g. vertical stratification and temperature control of the system are cross-related. In this paper we attempt to fill this gap by proposing a calculation method to calculate the product category specific setpoint variations for space heating emitters, accounting for the overall heat balance in the enclosure and including the cross-correlations of each component as well. The emission losses of a heating system are computed using a temperature setpoint variation method that is imposed on annual energy calculations. This complements the procedure presented in the Standard EN15316-2, also providing the possibility to use product-specific values of setpoint variations instead of tabulated values. As the main finding of the study, the calculation process is defined for a European Reference Room, namely for a specific enclosure that allows an accurate and transparent evaluation of the total setpoint variation. The product-specific values of setpoint variations are calculated from measured vertical stratification and control parameters with an annual simulation model of the European Reference Room. The total setpoint variations were simulated for a set of heat emitters and controllers in order to quantify and compare the energy performance of a new and an old type building located in Strasbourg. We find that the total setpoint variation required to overcome emission losses is up to 2.00 °C in the old building and 1.20 °C in the new building, corresponding respectively to an increase in total heating energy usage of up to 22% and 20%.
Dynamically Updated Alive Publication Date
Mikhail Gorbunov-Posadov
Subject: Mathematics & Computer Science, Information Technology & Data Management Keywords: alive publication; dynamic component of bibliographic reference; latest revision date; Crossref; arXiv.org; Preprints.org
The scientific work posted on the Internet, which its author constantly keeps up to date, will be called an alive publication. The genre of alive publishing has many attractive features. However, it requires a certain expansion of the composition of the meta-attributes of the publication: along with the traditional attributes, the date of the appearance of the new, fresh revision is brought to the fore here. Such date is placed in a prominent place in the text of the publication. Along with this, it becomes highly desirable to include such a dynamically ("on the fly") generated date in a bibliographic reference to an alive publication. The currently used methods of dynamic extraction of this date are considered for a simple online publication, for a publication that has received a DOI through Crossref, for a publication posted in arXiv and in Preprints. Thanks to adding this meta-attribute, references to alive publications will beautify any bibliographic list.
Hematological and Biochemical Reference Ranges for Population With Sickle Cell Disease at Steady-State in Tanzania
Anna Daniel Fome, Raphael Zozimus Sangeda, Emmanuel Balandya, Josephine Mgaya, Deogratius Soka, Furahini Tluway, Upendo Masamu, Siana Nkya, Julie Makani, Bruno P. Mmbando
Subject: Medicine & Pharmacology, General Medical Research Keywords: Hematological parameters; biochemical parameters; reference ranges; sickle cell disease; Tanzania; steady-state.
Hematological and biochemical reference values in sickle cell disease (SCD) are crucial for patient management and evaluation of interventions. This study was conducted at Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) in Dar es Salaam, to establish laboratory reference ranges in SCD at steady-state. Patients were grouped into five age groups with respects to their sex. Aggregate functions were used to handle repeated measures within the indi-vidual level in each age group. A nonparametric approach was used to smooth the curves and a parametric approach was used to determine SCD normal ranges. Comparison between males and females and against the general population was documented. Data from 4,422 patients collected from 2004-2015 were analyzed. The majority of the patients (35.41%) were children aged between 5-11 years. There were no significant differences (p≥0.05) in mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), lymphocytes, basophils and bilirubin direct observed between males and females. Significant differences (p<0.05) were observed in all selected parameters across age groups except neutrophils and MCHC in adults, as well as platelets and alkaline phosphatase in infants when SCD estimates were compared to the general population. Laboratory reference ranges in SCD at steady-state were different from those of the general population and varied with sex and age. The established reference ranges for SCD at steady-state will be a helpful in the management and monitoring of the progress of SCD.
Entrepreneurial Skills to Be Successful In the Global and Digital World: Proposal for a Frame of Reference for Entrepreneurial Education
Jacinto Jardim
Subject: Social Sciences, Accounting Keywords: entrepreneurial skills; globalization; digital transformation; entrepreneurship education; entrepreneurial profile; frame of reference
For most professionals to be successful in the current job market, they need some entrepreneurial skills (ES). This study aimed to describe and systematize these skills, considering the current globalization and digital transformation phenomena. The documental analysis and the critical reflection on the collected data allowed us to identify the socio-economic and socio-cultural reasons for the relevance of this problem. Consequently, to elaborate a frame of reference that is intended to be adequate to the needs of the professionals of the current global and digital era. The results pointed to a tripartite ES model - to be open to novelty, to create solutions to emerging problems, and to communicate effectively - which integrates the following skills: creativity and innovation, the spirit of initiative, self-efficacy and resilience, strategic planning, and evaluation, resolution of problems and decision-making, transformational leadership, clear and visual communication, teamwork and networking, and digital communication. In the continuation of this study, an ES scale will be created and validated according to this model, which will make it possible to measure the degree of development of these competencies.
A Ti/Pt/Co Multilayer Stack for Transfer Function Based Magnetic Force Microscopy Calibrations
Baha Sakar, Sibylle Sievers, Alexander Fernández Scarioni, Felipe Garcia-Sanchez, İlker Öztoprak, Hans Werner Schumacher, Osman Öztürk
Subject: Physical Sciences, Acoustics Keywords: magnetic force microscopy; calibration; reference samples; micromagnetism; metrology for magnetism; magnetic Multilayers
Magnetic force microscopy (MFM) is a widespread technique for imaging magnetic structures with a resolution of some 10 nanometers. MFM can be calibrated to obtain quantitative (qMFM) spatially resolved magnetization data in units of A/m by determining the calibrated point spread function of the instrument, its instrument calibration function (ICF), from a measurement of a well-known reference sample. Beyond quantifying the MFM data, a deconvolution of the MFM image data with the ICF also corrects the smearing caused by the finite width of the MFM tip stray field distribution. However, the quality of the calibration depends critically on the calculability of the magnetization distribution of the reference sample. Here, we discuss a Ti/Pt/Co multilayer stack which shows a stripe domain pattern as a suitable reference material. A precise control of the fabrication process combined with a characterization of the sample micromagnetic parameters allows to reliably calculate the sample's magnetic stray field, proven by a very good agreement between micromagnetic simulations and qMFM measurements. A calibrated qMFM measurement using the Ti/Pt/Co stack as a reference sample is shown and validated and the application area for quantitative MFM measurements calibrated with the Ti/Pt/Co stack is discussed.
Validation of A MS Based Proteomics Method for Milk and Egg Quantification in Cookies at The Lowest VITAL Levels: An Alternative to The Use of Precautionary Labeling
Linda Monaci, Elisabetta De Angelis, Rocco Guagnano, Aristide P. Ganci, Iganzio Garaguso, Alessandro Fiocchi, Rosa Pilolli
Subject: Life Sciences, Biochemistry Keywords: egg; milk; allergens; multiple reaction monitoring; mass spectrometry; reference doses; food; PAL
The prevalence of food allergy has increased over the last decades and consequently the food labeling policies have improved over the time in different countries to regulate allergen presence in foods. In particular, Reg 1169 in EU mandates the labelling of 14 allergens whenever intentionally added to foods, but the inadvertent contamination by allergens still remains uncovered topic. In order to warn consumers on the risk of cross-contamination occurring in certain categories of foods, a precautionary allergen labelling system has been put in place by food industries on voluntary basis. In order to reduce the overuse of PAL, reference doses and action limits have been proposed by the VITAL project representing a guide in this jeopardize scenario. Development of sensitive and reliable mass spectrometry methods are therefore of paramount importance in this regard to check the contamination levels in foods. In this paper we describe the development of a managed time MRM method based on a triple quadrupole platform for milk and egg quantification in processed food. The method was in house validated and allowed to achieve levels of proteins lower than 0.2mg of total milk and egg proteins respectively in cookies, challenging the doses recommended by VITAL. The method was finally applied to cookies labeled as milk and egg-free. This method could represent in perspective a promising tool to be implemented along the food chain to detect even tiny amounts of allergens contaminating food commodities.
Determination of Vitamin E in Cereal Products and Biscuits by GC-FID
Ioannis N. Pasias, Ioannis K. Kiriakou, Lila Papakonstantinou, Charalampos Proestos
Subject: Chemistry, Food Chemistry Keywords: Vitamin E; GC-FID; Uncertainty; Cereal products; Reference daily value; Health claim
A rapid, precise, accurate and low cost method for the determination of vitamin E (α-tocopherol) in cereal products and biscuits was developed. The uncertainty was calculated for the first time and the methods were performed in different cereal products and biscuits, characterized as "superfoods". The limits of detection and quantification were calculated. Accuracy and precision were estimated using the certified reference material FAPAS T10112QC and the determined values were in good accordance with the certified values. The health claims according to the daily reference values for vitamin E were calculated and the results proved that the majority of the samples examined showed %daily value higher than 15%.
Hierarchical Gradient Similarity Based Video Quality Assessment Metric
Jie Yang, Jian Xiong, Guan Gui, Rongfang Song, Wang Luo, Xianzhong Long
Subject: Keywords: hierarchical video quality assessment; human visual systems; primate visual cortex; full reference
Video quality assessment (VQA) plays an important role in video applications for quality evaluation and resource allocation. It aims to evaluate the video quality consistent with the human perception. In this letter, a hierarchical gradient similarity based VQA metric is proposed inspired by the structure of the primate visual cortex, in which visual information is processed through sequential visual areas. These areas are modeled with the corresponding measures to evaluate the overall perceptual quality. Experimental results on the LIVE database show that the proposed VQA metric significantly outperforms the state-of-the-art VQA metrics.
Quantitative 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (qNMR) of Aromatic Amino Acids for Protein Quantification
Teodor Tchipilov, Klas Meyer, Michael G. Weller
Subject: Life Sciences, Biotechnology Keywords: amino acid analysis; AAA; protein hydrolysis; metrology; traceability; reference materials; internal standards; calibration
qNMR is a valuable technique for metrological studies due to the uniformity of its signal response for all chemical species of an isotope of interest, which enables compound-independent calibration. However, protein quantification remained challenging as large molecules produce wide, low-intensity signals that reduce the already low sensitivity. Combining qNMR with the hydrolysis of protein samples into amino acids circumvents many of these issues and facilitates the use of NMR spectroscopy for absolute protein and peptide quantification.In this work, different conditions have been tested for quantifying aromatic amino acids and proteins. First, we examined the pH-based signal shifts in the aromatic region. The preferable pH depends on the selection of the amino acids for quantification and which internal standard substance should be used to avoid peak overlap. Several aromatic compounds, such as terephthalic acid, sulfoisophthalic acid, and benzene tricarboxylic acid, have been applied as internal standards. The quantification of amino acids from an amino acid standard, as well as from a certified reference material (bovine serum albumin), was performed. Using the first two suggested internal standards, recovery was ~ 97 % for histidine, phenylalanine, and tyrosine at a concentration of approximately 1 mM in solution. Acidic hydrolysis of a certified reference material (CRM) of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and subsequent quantification of Phe and Tyr yielded recoveries of 98 ± 2 and 88 ± 4 %, respectively, at a protein concentration of 16 g/L or 250 µM.
Bridge Displacement Estimation Using a Co-Located Acceleration and Strain
Muhammad Zohaib Sarwar, Jongwoong Park
Subject: Engineering, Civil Engineering Keywords: structural health monitoring; sensor fusion; adaptive Kalman Filter; displacement estimation; reference-free displacement
Structural displacement is an important metric for assessing structural conditions because it has a direct relationship with the structural stiffness. Many bridge displacement measurement techniques have been developed, but most methods require fixed reference points in the vicinity of the target structure which limits field implementations. A promising alternative is to use reference-free measurement techniques that indirectly estimate the displacement by using measurements such as acceleration, and strain. This paper proposes novel reference-free bridge displacement estimation by the fusion of single acceleration with pseudo-static displacement derived from co-located strain measurements. First, we propose a conversion of the strain at the center of a beam into displacement based on the geometric relationship between strain and deflection curves with reference-free calibration. Second, an adaptive Kalman filter is proposed to fuse the displacement generated by strain with acceleration by recursively estimate the noise covariance of displacement from strain measurements which is vulnerable to measurement condition. Both numerical and experimental validations are presented to demonstrate the efficiency and robustness of the proposed approach.
Data Governance and Sovereignty in Urban Data Spaces Based on Standardized ICT Reference Architectures
Silke Cuno, Lina Bruns, Nikolay Tcholtchev, Philipp Lämmel, Ina Schieferdecker
Subject: Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering Keywords: data governance; data sovereignty; urban data spaces; ICT reference architecture; open urban platform
This paper presents the results of a recent study that was conducted with a number of German municipalities/cities. Based on the obtained and briefly presented recommendations emerging from the study, the authors propose the concept of an Urban Data Space (UDS), which facilitates an eco-system for data exchange and added value creation thereby utilizing the various types of data within a smart city/municipality. Looking at an Urban Data Space from within a German context and considering the current situation and developments in German municipalities, this paper proposes a reasonable classification of urban data that allows to relate the various data types to legal aspects and to conduct solid considerations regarding technical implementation designs and decisions. Furthermore, the Urban Data Space is described/analyzed in detail, and relevant stakeholders are identified, as well as corresponding technical artifacts are introduced. The authors propose to setup Urban Data Spaces based on emerging standards from the area of ICT reference architectures for Smart Cities, such as DIN SPEC 91357 "Open Urban Platform" and EIP SCC. Thereby, the paper walks the reader through the construction of an UDS based on the above mentioned architectures and outlines all the goals, recommendations and potentials, which an Urban Data Space can reveal to a municipality/city.
Modeling Community Residents' Exercise Adherence and Life Satisfaction: An Application of the Influence of the Reference Group
Huimin Song, Wei Zeng, Tingting Zeng
Subject: Physical Sciences, Other Keywords: the reference group theory; life satisfaction; exercise adherence; personal investment; strategic and cultural fit
To expand the application area of the reference group and enrich exercise theoretical research, based on Stimulus-Organism-Response (S–O-R) framework, this study examines the factors that motivate for adherence to exercise from the external. Taking reference group and strategy and cultural fit as the main stimulus, and personal investment and life satisfaction as mediating variables, this study try to explore the influence of external stimulus on residents' exercise behavior. In order to enrich the sample size, two surveys of 734 Chinese residents in two cities (Xiamen vs. Fuzhou) were conducted using factor analyses, regression analysis, and T-test analysis. The results indicated that the reference group and strategic and cultural fit as external stimulus have impact on residents'personal investment, life satisfaction and exercise adherence, personal investment and life satisfaction as the organism has impact on residents' exercise adherence. Personal investment and life satisfaction play a chain mediating role between the reference group and exercise adherence, strategy and cultural fit, and exercise adherence. Moreover, the T-test determined the differences between Xiamen and Fuzhou residents' exercise adherence and life satisfaction. Residents' surroundings affect their exercise behavior and life satisfaction. These findings have implications for policymaking aimed at promoting national exercise, which could gradually improve residents' physical fitness, particularly in light of the current coronavirus emergency.
Mapping Maternal Health in the New Media Environment: A Scientometric Analysis
Yinghua Xie, Dong Lang, Chengxu Long, Shangfeng Tang
Subject: Mathematics & Computer Science, Other Keywords: maternal health; new media; bibliometric analysis; cited reference analysis; structural variation analysis; hot spots
Background: The new media provides a convenient digital platform to access, use and exchange health information. As a special group of health care, maternal is still of international concern due to their high mortality rate. Improving maternal health as a Millennium Development Goal of the United Nations is an important quest for the health care system. Scientific research provides advice on how to improve maternal health through stringent reasoning and accurate data. However, the dramatic increase of publications, the diversity of themes, and the dispersion of researchers may reduce efficiency. Objective: This study aims to analyze the research progress on maternal health under the global new media environment, exploring the current research hotspots and research frontiers. Methods: A scientometric analysis was carried out by CiteSpace5.7.R1, searching in the core database of Web of Science for articles published in English from 1998 to 2021, and combined topic words such as new media, maternal, and health. In total, 3312 articles have been retrieved, of which 2270 studies have been included for further analysis. Top countries and institutions, potentially high-impact literature, research frontiers, and hotspots were analyzed in this study. Results: The number of publications grew rapidly after 2008, from 29 publications sharply increasing to 472 publications by 2020. Research centers concentrated in Latin America, such as the University of Toronto, the University of California. The work of Larsson M, Lagan BM, Tiedje L, and Helle C had a high potential impact. Most of the research subjects were maternal and newborn babies, and the research frontiers focused on health education and maternal psychological problems. Maternal mental health, maternal and infant nutrition, weight, production technology, and equipment were hotspots. Conclusion: The development of new media has brought a new era for maternal health, characterized by psychological qualities, healthy and reasonable physical conditions, and advanced technology.
Personalized beyond Precision: Designing Unbiased Gold Standards to Improve Single-Subject Studies of Personal Genome Dynamics from Gene Products
Samir Rachid Zaim, Colleen Kenost, Hao Helen Zhang, Yves A. Lussier
Subject: Medicine & Pharmacology, Allergology Keywords: single-subject studies, personalized medicine, precision medicine, reference standards; gold standards; biomarkers; open-source
Background: Developing patient-centric baseline standards that enable the detection of clinically significant outlier gene products on a genome-scale remains an unaddressed challenge required for advancing personalized medicine beyond the small pools of subjects implied by "precision medicine". This manuscript proposes a novel approach for reference standard development to evaluate the accuracy of single-subject analyses of metabolomes, proteomes, or transcriptomes. Since distributional assumptions of statistical testing may inadequately model genome dynamics of gene products, the so-called significant results of previous studies may artefactually conflate with real signals. Model confirmation biases escalate when studies use the same analytical methods in the discovery sets and reference standards, as corroboration of results leads to an evaluation of reproducibility confounded with replicated biases rather than a measure of accuracy. We hypothesized that developing method-agnostic reference standards using effect-size and expression-level filtering of results, obtained from multiple discovery methods that are distinct from the one evaluated, would maximize the evaluation of clinical-transcriptomic signals and minimize statistical artefactual biases. We developed and released an R package "referenceNof1" to facilitate the construction of robust reference standards. Results: Since RNA-Seq data analysis methods often rely on binomial and negative binomial assumptions to non-parametric analyses, the differences create statistical noise and make the reference standards method dependent. In our experimental design, the accuracy of 30 distinct combinations of fold changes (FC) and expression levels (EL) were determined for five types of RNA analyses in two different datasets. This design was applied to two distinct datasets: breast cancer cell lines and a yeast study with isogenic biological replicates in two experimental conditions. In addition, the reference standard (RS) comprised all RNA analytical methods with the exception of the method testing accuracy. To mitigate for biased optimization of the RS parameters towards a specific analytical method, similarity between observed results of distinct analytical methods were calculated across all methods (Jaccard Concordance Index). The greatest differences were observed across diametric extremes. For example, filtering out differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using a fold change < 1.2 leads to a 50% increase in concordance between techniques when compared to results with FC > 1.2. Combining this FC cutoff with genes with mean expressions > 30 counts leads to a 65% increase in concordance in comparison to genes with expression levels < 30 counts and with FC < 1.2. Conclusions: We have demonstrated that comparing accuracies of different single-subject analysis methods for clinical optimization requires a new evaluation framework. Reliable and robust reference standards, independent of the evaluated method, can be obtained under a limited number of parameter combinations: fold change (FC) ranges thresholds, expression level cutoffs, and exclusion of the tested method from the RS development process. When applying anticonservative reference standard frameworks (e.g., using the same method for RS development and for prediction), a majority of the concordant signal between prediction and Gold Standard (GS) cannot be confirmed by other methods, which we conclude as biased results. Statistical tests to determine DEGs from a single-subject study generate many biased results that require subsequent filtering for increasing their reliability. Conventional single-subject studies pertain to one or a few measures in one patient over time [1]and need a substantial conceptual framework extension in order to address the tens of thousands of measures in genome-wide analyses of gene products. The proposed referenceNof1 framework addresses some of the inherent challenges in improving transcriptome scale single-subject analyses by providing a robust approach to constructing reference standards. Github: https://github.com/SamirRachidZaim/referenceNof1
The Positioning of the Electromechanical System Using Sliding Mode Control without a Reaching Phase
Stefan Brock
Subject: Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering Keywords: sliding mode control; position tracking; reference signal generator; telescope mount; motion control; electrical drive
Precise and fast position tracking is essential for the correct operation of many industrial robots and CNC machine tools. This subject is also important in the control of the mount of the astronomical telescope, especially for the tracking of artificial satellites. As system parameters can change, a control method that is robust to changes in parameters must be used. Such a method is the sliding control, which, however, ensures the robustness only after reaching the sliding surface. Therefore, a new method was proposed in the paper, which eliminates the phase of reaching the sliding surface. The method consists of using a reference trajectory generator and determining the generalized error in relation to this trajectory. The procedure for designing the control system is presented. Next, the proposed method was verified on the laboratory stand. The described control method provides a robust system operation and can be easily implemented in the control system.
From Entropy Generation to Exergy Efficiency at Varying Reference Environment Temperature: Case Study of an Air Handling Unit
Giedrė Streckienė, Vytautas Martinaitis, Juozas Bielskus
Subject: Engineering, Energy & Fuel Technology Keywords: HVAC; air handling unit; energy efficiency; exergy efficiency; produced entropy; variable reference temperature; coenthalpy
Online: 5 February 2019 (10:08:03 CET)
The continuous energy transformation processes in heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems of buildings are responsible for 36% of global final energy consumption. Tighter thermal insulation requirements for buildings have significantly reduced heat transfer losses. Unfortunately, this has little effect on energy demand for ventilation. On the basis of the First and the Second Law of Thermodynamics, the concepts of entropy and exergy are applied to the analysis of ventilation air handling unit (AHU) with a heat pump in this paper. This study aims to develop a consistent approach for this purpose, taking into account the variations of reference temperature and temperatures of working fluids. An analytical investigation on entropy generation and exergy analysis are used, when exergy is determined by calculating coenthalpies and evaluating exergy flows and their directions. The results show that each component of the AHU has its individual character of generated entropy, destroyed exergy and exergy efficiency variation. However, the evaporator of heat pump and fans have unabated quantities of exergy destruction. The exergy efficiency of AHU decreases from 45-55% to 12-15% when outdoor air temperature is within the range of –30°C…+10°C, respectively. This helps to determine conditions and components of improving the exergy efficiency of the AHU at variable real-world local climate conditions. The presented methodological approach could be used in the dynamic modelling software and contribute to a wider application of the Second Law of Thermodynamics in practice.
Dynamic Shear Modulus and Damping of MICP-treated Calcareous Sand at Low Strains
Xinlei Zhang, Jun Guo, Yumin Chen, Yi Han, Ruibo Yi, Hongmei Gao, Lu Liu, Hanlong Liu, Zhifu Shen
Subject: Engineering, Civil Engineering Keywords: Calcareous sand; Microbially induced calcite precipitation; Dynamic shear modulus; Resonant column test; Reference shear strain
Calcareous sand deposits are widely distributed along the shoreline in ropical and subtropical regions. Microbially induced calcite precipitation treatment (MICP) is a relatively new method to improve the stiffness and strength of the soil. Little is known about the small-strain shear modulus and damping ratio of MICP-treated calcareous sand, which are two crucial parameters for the prediction of the dynamic behavior of soil. A series of resonant column tests are performed to investigate the dynamic performance of MICP-treated calcareous sand, with special attention paid to the influence of treatment duration and confining stress on the stiffness and damping characteristics. The relationship between the initial dynamic shear modulus and unconfined compressive strength is analyzed. Additionally, the empirical equations of the reference shear strain between treatment duration and confining stress are given. The G/G0 of MICP-cemented calcareous sand presents a higher strain sensitivity than that of untreated sand, and its attenuation pattern can be described by Hardin-Drnevich model. The σc has an apparent effect on the degradation characteristics of the dynamic shear modulus of MICP-treated calcareous sand with a low cementation level, however, its effect decreases with the increasing treatment duration. The relationship between the reference shear strain and the treatment duration and confining stress can be described by a power and a linear formula, respectively.
Compounded Nonsterile Preparations and FDA-Approved Commercially Available Liquid Products for Children: A North American Update
Richard Parrish, Lisa D. Ashworth, Raimar Löbenberg, Sandra Benavides, Jeffrey J. Cies, Robert B. MacArthur
Subject: Medicine & Pharmacology, Pharmacology & Toxicology Keywords: active pharmaceutical ingredient; compounded drug; compounding; extemporaneous formulation; manufactured material; medication; monograph; pediatric; reference standards
The purpose of this work was to evaluate the suitability of recent US Food and Drug Administration (US-FDA) approved and marketed oral liquid, powder, or granule products for children in North America, to identify the next group of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) that have high potential for development as commercially available FDA-approved finished liquid dosage forms , and to propose lists of compounded nonsterile preparations (CNSPs) that should developed as commercially available FDA-approved finished liquid dosage forms as well as those that pharmacists should continue to compound extemporaneously. Through this identification and categorization process, the pharmaceutical industry, government, and the professions are encouraged to continue to work together to improve the likelihood that patients will receive high quality standardized extemporaneous CNSPs and US-FDA-approved products.
On Group Property of Hassani Transforms and Relativity Principle in Hassani Kinematics
Yaroslav Grushka
Subject: Mathematics & Computer Science, Algebra & Number Theory Keywords: groups of operators, universal kinematics, changeable sets, inertial reference frames, tachyons, the principle of relativity
In the present paper, based on the ideas of Algerian physicist M.E. Hassani, the generalized Hassani spatio-temporal transformations in real Hilbert space are introduced. The original transformations, introduced by M.E. Hassani, are the particular cases of the transformations, introduced in this paper. It is proven that the classes of generalized Hassani transforms do not form a group of operators in the general case. Further, using these generalized Hassani transformations as well as the theory of changeable sets and universal kinematics, the mathematically strict models of Hassani kinematics are constructed and the performance of the relativity principle in these models is discussed.
Enhancement of Component Images of Multispectral Data by Denoising with Reference
Sergey Abramov, Mikhail Uss, Vladimir Lukin, Benoit Vozel, Kacem Chehdi, Karen Egiazarian
Subject: Mathematics & Computer Science, Numerical Analysis & Optimization Keywords: remote sensing; multispectral imaging; DCT-filtering; vectorial (three-dimensional) filtering; BM3D-filtering; filtering with reference
Multispectral remote sensing data may contain component images which are heavily corrupted by noise and pre-filtering (denoising) procedure is often applied to enhance these component images. To do this, one can use reference images – component images having relatively high quality and which are similar to the image subject to pre-filtering. Here we study the following problems: how to select component images that can be used as references (e.g., for the Sentinel multispectral remote sensing data) and how to perform the actual denoising. We demonstrate that component images of the same resolution as well as component images of a better resolution can be used as references. Examples of denoising of real-life images demonstrate high efficiency of the proposed approach.
Self-Referential Encoding on Modules of Anticodon Pairs—Roots of the Biological Flow System
Romeu Cardoso Guimarães
Subject: Life Sciences, Molecular Biology Keywords: genetic code; tRNA dimers; self-reference; modularity; error-compensation; metabolism chronology; protein stability; punctuation system
The proposal that the genetic code was formed on the basis of protein synthesis directed by tRNA dimers is reviewed and updated. The tRNAs paired through the anticodon loops are an indication on the process. Dimers are considered mimics of the ribosomes – structures that hold tRNAs together and facilitate the transferase reaction, and of the translation process – anticodons are at the same time codons for each other. The primitive protein synthesis system gets stabilized when the product peptides are able to bind the producers therewith establishing a self-stimulating production cycle. The chronology of amino acid encoding starts with Glycine and Serine, indicating the metabolic support of the Glycine-Serine C1-assimilation pathway, which is also consistent with evidence on origins of bioenergetics mechanisms. Since it is not possible to reach for substrates simpler than C1 and compounds in the identified pathway are apt for generating the other central metabolic routes, it is considered that protein synthesis is the beginning and center of a succession of sink-effective mechanisms that drive the formation and evolution of the metabolic flow system. Plasticity and diversification of proteins construct the cellular system following the orientation given by the flow and implementing it. Nucleic acid monomers participate in bioenergetics and the polymers are conservative memory systems for the synthesis of proteins. Protoplasmic fission is the final sink-effective mechanism, part of cell reproduction, guaranteeing that proteins don't accumulate to saturation, which would trigger inhibition.
Does Cannabidiol (CBD) in Food Supplements Pose a Serious Health Risk? Consequences of the EFSA Clock Stop Regarding Novel Food Authorisation
Dirk W. Lachenmeier, Constanze Sproll, Patricia Golombek, Stephan G. Walch
Subject: Medicine & Pharmacology, Pharmacology & Toxicology Keywords: food safety; risk assessment; Cannabis sativa; tetrahydrocannabinol; food supplements; cannabidiol; benchmark dose; reference dose; liver toxicity
Online: 5 September 2022 (04:34:49 CEST)
At present, foods containing cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids are internationally being widely advertised and sold in increasing quantities. In the European Union (EU), these products require pre-marketing authorisation under the novel food regulation, so that all available CBD oils and CBD-containing food supplements in the EU are currently placed on the market with an infringement of the food laws. Currently, 19 CBD applications are under assessment at the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). During the initial assessment of the application files, EFSA located several knowledge gaps that need to be addressed before the safety evaluation of CBD can be concluded. Namely, the effect of CBD on the liver, gastrointestinal tract, endocrine system, nervous system, psychological function, and reproductive system needs to be clarified. Nevertheless, the available literature allows a benchmark dose (BMD)-response modelling of several bioassays, resulting in a BMD lower confidence limit (BMDL) of 20 mg/kg bw/day for liver toxicity in rats. Human data in healthy volunteers found increases in the liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in a study at 4.3 mg/kg bw/day, which was defined by EFSA as a lowest observed adverse effect level (LOAEL). The EFSA panel currently concluded that the safety of CBD as a novel food cannot be evaluated, leading to a so-called clock stop of the applications until the applicants provide the required data. Meanwhile, the authors suggest that CBD products still available on the EU market despite the lack of authorisation must be considered as "unsafe". Products exceeding a reference dose of 10 mg/day must be considered as being "unfit for consumption" (Article 14(1) and (2) (b) of Regulation No 178/2002), while the ones in exceedance of the human LOAEL must be considered "injurious to health" (Article 14(1) and (2) (a) of Regulation No 178/2002).
Assessment of PVS Filtering Methods Using a Three-Dimensional Computational Model
Jose Bernal, Maria Valdés-Hernández, Javier Escudero, Roberto Duarte, Lucia Ballerini, Mark Bastin, Ian Deary, Michael Thrippleton, Rhian Touyz, Joanna Wardlaw
Subject: Medicine & Pharmacology, Other Keywords: Digital reference object; Perivascular spaces; Spatio-temporal imaging artefacts; Perivascular space enhancement; Cerebral small vessel disease
Growing interest surrounds the assessment of perivascular spaces (PVS) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and their validation as a clinical biomarker of adverse brain health. Nonetheless, the limits of validity of current state-of-the-art segmentation methods are still unclear. Here, we propose an open-source three-dimensional computational framework comprising 3D digital reference objects and evaluate the performance of three PVS filtering methods under various spatiotemporal imaging considerations (including sampling, motion artefacts, and Rician noise). Specifically, we study the performance of the Frangi, Jerman and RORPO filters in enhancing PVS-like structures to facilitate segmentation. Our findings were three-fold. First, as long as voxels are isotropic, RORPO outperforms the other two filters, regardless of imaging quality. Unlike the Frangi and Jerman filters, RORPO's performance does not deteriorate as PVS volume increases. Second, the performance of all "vesselness" filters is heavily influenced by imaging quality, with sampling and motion artefacts being the most damaging for these types of analyses. Third, none of the filters can distinguish PVS from other hyperintense structures (e.g. white matter hyperintensities, stroke lesions, or lacunes) effectively, the area under precision-recall curve dropped substantially (Frangi: from 94.21 [IQR 91.60, 96.16] to 43.76 [IQR 25.19, 63.38]; Jerman: from 94.51 [IQR 91.90, 95.37] to 58.00 [IQR 35.68, 64.87]; RORPO: from 98.72 [IQR 95.37, 98.96] to 71.87 [IQR 57.21, 76.63] without and with other hyperintense structures, respectively). The use of our computational model enables comparing segmentation methods and identifying their advantages and disadvantages, thereby providing means for testing and optimising pipelines for ongoing and future studies.
Under-Canopy UAV Laser Scanning Providing Canopy Height and Stem Volume Accurately
Juha Hyyppä, Xiaowei Yu, Teemu Hakala, Harri Kaartinen, Antero Kukko, Heikki Hyyti, Jesse Muhojoki, Eric Hyyppä
Subject: Earth Sciences, Atmospheric Science Keywords: under-canopy surveys; UAV laser scanning; tree height; stem curve; stem volume; field reference; forest plot
Automation of forest field reference data collection has been an intensive research objective for laser scanning scientists ever since the invention of terrestrial laser scanning more than two decades ago. Recently, it has been proposed that such automated data collection providing both the tree heights and stem curves would require a combination of above-canopy UAV point clouds and terrestrial point clouds. In this study, we demonstrate that an under-canopy UAV laser scanning system utilizing a rotating laser scanner can alone provide accurate estimates of the canopy height and the stem volume for the majority of the trees in a boreal forest. To this end, we mounted a rotating laser scanner based on a Velodyne VLP-16 sensor onboard a manually piloted UAV. The UAV was commanded with the help of a live video feed from the onboard camera of the UAV. Since the system was based on a rotating laser scanner providing varying view angles, all important elements such as treetops, branches, trunks, and ground could be recorded with laser hits. In an experiment including two different forest structures, namely sparse and obstructed canopy, we showed that our system can measure the heights of individual trees with a bias of -20 cm and a standard error of 40 cm in the sparse forest and with a bias of -65 cm and a standard error of 1 m in the obstructed forest. The accuracy of the obtained tree height estimates was equivalent to airborne above-canopy UAV surveys conducted in similar forest conditions. The higher underestimation and higher inaccuracy in the obstructed site can be attributed to three trees with a height exceeding 25 m and the applied laser scanning system VLP-16 that had a limited height measurement capacity when it comes to trees taller than 25 m. Additionally, we used our system to estimate the stem volumes of individual trees with a standard error at the level of 10%. This level of error is equivalent to the error obtained when merging above-canopy UAV laser scanner data with terrestrial point cloud data. Future research is needed for testing new sensors, for implementing autonomous operation inside canopies through collision avoidance and navigation through canopies, and for developing robust methods that work also with more complex forest structure. The results show that we do not necessarily need a combination of terrestrial point clouds and point clouds collected using above-canopy UAV systems in order to accurately estimate the heights and the volumes of individual trees.
Research on Retailer Pricing Based on Extended Regret Theory in E-commerce Environment
Ge Qiu
Subject: Social Sciences, Econometrics & Statistics Keywords: Retailers' Optimal Pricing Strategy; Expected Utility Theory (EUT); Regret Theory; Regret Reference Point; Price-dependent Demand
Based on the Expected Utility Theory and Regret Theory, the Extended Regret Theory (ERT) is proposed in this paper to study the optimal pricing strategy of retailers in e-commerce environment. Taking the diversity of sales channels and the uncertainty of consumers in e-commerce environment into consideration, author of the paper designs an extended regret utility function which comprehensively considers both pessimistic and optimistic attitudes of decision makers in retailing industry to describe their regret-avoidance behavior. According to the sensitivity analysis, it is found that the optimal retail price decreases as the consumer price sensitivity coefficient increases, yet does not show variation with changes of the consumers pessimism degree. Moreover, the optimal retail price(s) obtained under EUT, ERT and combination of EUT and ERT represent the same.
Analysis of Energy Saving Potential in High-Performance Building Technologies under Korean Climatic Conditions
Chul-Ho Kim, Seung-Eon Lee, Kang-Soo Kim
Subject: Engineering, Energy & Fuel Technology Keywords: high-performance buildings; energy-saving technology; primary energy consumption; CO2 emission; Korean climate; EnergyPlus; reference building
This study aims to suggest a basis for the selection of technologies for developing high-performance buildings to reduce energy consumptions and greenhouse gas emissions. Energy-saving technologies comprising of 15 cases were categorized into passive, active, and renewable energy systems. EnergyPlus v8.8 was used to analyze the contribution of each technology in reducing the primary energy consumptions and CO2 emissions in the Korean climate. The primary energy consumptions of the base model were 464.1 and 485.1 kWh/m²a in the Incheon and Jeju, respectively, and the CO2 emissions were 83.4 and 87.4 kgCO2/m²a, respectively. Each technology (cases 1–15) provided different energy-saving contributions in the Korean climate depending on their characteristics. The heating, cooling, and other energy-saving contributions of each technology indicate that their saving rates can be used when selecting suitable technologies during the cooling and heating seasons. Case 15 (active chilled beam with dedicated outdoor air system + ground source heat pump) showed the highest energy saving rate. In case 15, the Incheon and Jeju models were reduced by 189.4 (59.2%) and 206.2 kWh/m²a (57.4%) compared to the base case, respectively, and the CO2 emissions were reduced by up to 32.7 (60.8%) and 35.6 kgCO2/m²a (59.3%), respectively.
Northwest Native Plants: A Digital Space for Paleoethnobotanical Knowledges and Biocultural Heritage
Molly Carney, Melanie Diedrich, John C. Blong, Jade d'Alpoim Guedes, Tiffany J. Fulkerson, Tiffany Kite, Katy Leonard-Doll, Joyce LeCompte-Mastenbrook, Shannon Tushingham, Mario Zimmermann
Subject: Social Sciences, Other Keywords: ethnobotany; paleoethnobotany; biocultural heritage; digital heritage; online database; Indigenous data sovereignty; Open Access; research accessiblity; digital reference collection
Biocultural heritage preservation relies on ethnobotanical knowledge and the paleoethnobotanical data used in (re)constructing histories of human-biota interactions. Biocultural heritage, defined as the knowledge and practices of Indigenous and Local peoples and their biological relatives, is often guarded information, meant for specific audiences and withheld from other social circles. As such, these forms of heritage and knowledge must also be included in the ongoing data sovereignty discussions and movement. In this paper we share the process and design decisions behind creating an online database for ethnobotanical knowledge and associated paleoethnobotanical data, using a content management system designed to foreground Indigenous and local perspectives. Our main purpose is to suggest the Mukurtu content management system, originally designed for physical items of cultural importance, be considered as a potential tool for digitizing and ethically circulating biocultural heritage, including paleoethnobotanical resources. With this database, we aim to create access to biocultural heritage and paleoethnobotanical considerations for a variety of audiences while also respecting the protected and sensitive natures of Indigenous and local knowledges.
The Symmetries of Quantum and Classical Information. The Ressurected "Ether" of Quantum Information
Vasil Penchev
Subject: Physical Sciences, Acoustics Keywords: confinement; discrete reference frame; still more general principle of relativity; quantum-information conservation; symmetries of information; the ether
The paper considers the symmetries of a bit of information corresponding to one, two or three qubits of quantum information and identifiable as the three basic symmetries of the Standard model, U(1), SU(2), and SU(3) accordingly. They refer to "empty qubits" (or the free variable of quantum information), i.e. those in which no point is chosen (recorded). The choice of a certain point violates those symmetries. It can be represented furthermore as the choice of a privileged reference frame (e.g. that of the Big Bang), which can be described exhaustively by means of 16 numbers (4 for position, 4 for velocity, and 8 for acceleration) independently of time, but in space-time continuum, and still one, 17th number is necessary for the mass of rest of the observer in it. The same 17 numbers describing exhaustively a privileged reference frame thus granted to be "zero", respectively a certain violation of all the three symmetries of the Standard model or the "record" in a qubit in general, can be represented as 17 elementary wave functions (or classes of wave functions) after the bijection of natural and transfinite natural (ordinal) numbers in Hilbert arithmetic and further identified as those corresponding to the 17 elementary of particles of the Standard model. Two generalizations of the relevant concepts of general relativity are introduced: (1) "discrete reference frame" to the class of all arbitrarily accelerated reference frame constituting a smooth manifold; (2) a still more general principle of relativity to the general principle of relativity, and meaning the conservation of quantum information as to all discrete reference frames as to the smooth manifold of all reference frames of general relativity. Then, the bijective transition from an accelerated reference frame to the 17 elementary wave functions of the Standard model can be interpreted by the still more general principle of relativity as the equivalent redescription of a privileged reference frame: smooth into a discrete one. The conservation of quantum information related to the generalization of the concept of reference frame can be interpreted as restoring the concept of the ether, an absolutely immovable medium and reference frame in Newtonian mechanics, to which the relative motion can be interpreted as an absolute one, or logically: the relations, as properties. The new ether is to consist of qubits (or quantum information). One can track the conceptual pathway of the "ether" from Newtonian mechanics via special relativity, via general relativity, via quantum mechanics to the theory of quantum information (or "quantum mechanics and information"). The identification of entanglement and gravity can be considered also as a 'byproduct" implied by the transition from the smooth "ether of special and general relativity' to the "flat" ether of quantum mechanics and information. The qubit ether is out of the "temporal screen" in general and is depicted on it as both matter and energy, both dark and visible.
The Original Method of Deriving Transformations for Kinematics with a Universal Reference System
Roman Szostek
Subject: Physical Sciences, General & Theoretical Physics Keywords: kinematics; universal frame of reference; coordinate and time transformation; one-way speed of light; summing speed; relative speed
The article presents the original derivation method of transformations for kinematics with a universal reference system. This method allows to derive transformations that meet the results of the Michelson-Morley and Kennedy-Thorndike experiments only in some frame of reference, e.g. in laboratories moving in relation to a universal frame of reference with small speeds. The obtained transformations are the basis for the derivation of the new physical theory, which has been called the Special Theory of Ether. The generalized transformations can be expressed by relative speeds (26)-(27) or by the parameter δ (v) (37)-(38). Based on conclusions of the Michelson-Morley's and Kennedy-Thorndike's experiments, the parameter δ (v) was determined. This allows the transformations to take a special form (81)-(82), which is consistent with experiments in which velocity of light is measured. On the basis of obtained transformations, the formulas for summing speed and relative speed were also determined. The entire article includes only original research conducted by its author.
Online System for Power Quality Operational Data Management in Frequency Monitoring using Python and Grafana
Jose-María Sierra-Fernández, Olivia Florencias-Oliveros, Manuel-Jesús Espinosa-Gavira, Juan-José González-de-la-Rosa, Agustín Agüera-Pérez, José-Carlos Palomares-Salas
Subject: Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering Keywords: big data; data acquisition; data visualization; data exchange; dashboard; frequency stability; Grafana lab; Power Quality; GPS reference; frequency measurement.
This article proposes a measurement solution designed to monitor instantaneous frequency in power systems. It uses a data acquisition module and a GPS receiver for time stamping. A program in Python takes care of receiving the data, calculating the frequency, and finally transferring the measurement results to a database. The frequency is calculated with two different methods, which are compared in the article. The stored data is visualized using the Grafana platform, thus demonstrating its potential for comparing scientific data. The system as a whole constitutes an efficient low cost solution as a data acquisition system.
A Four-Dimensional Computational Model of Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging Measurement of Subtle Blood-Brain Barrier Leakage
Jose Bernal, Maria Valdés-Hernández, Javier Escudero, Anna Heye, Eleni Sakka, Paul Armitage, Stephen Makin, Rhian Touyz, Joanna Wardlaw, Michael Thrippleton
Subject: Medicine & Pharmacology, Other Keywords: digital reference object; blood-brain barrier permeability; DCE-MRI; Spatio-temporal imaging artefacts; endothelial dysfunction; cerebral small vessel disease
Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) is increasingly used to quantify and map the spatial distribution of blood-brain barrier (BBB) leakage in neurodegenerative disease, including cerebral small vessel disease and dementia. However, the subtle nature of leakage and resulting small signal changes make quantification challenging. While simplified one-dimensional simulations have probed the impact of noise, scanner drift, and model assumptions, the impact of spatio-temporal effects such as gross motion, k-space sampling and motion artefacts on parametric leakage maps has been overlooked. Moreover, evidence on which to base the design of imaging protocols is lacking due to practical difficulties and the lack of a reference method. To address these problems, we present an open-source computational model of the DCE-MRI acquisition process for generating four-dimensional Digital Reference Objects (DROs), using a high-resolution brain atlas and incorporating realistic patient motion, extra-cerebral signals, noise and k-space sampling. Simulations using the DROs demonstrated a dominant influence of spatio-temporal effects on both the visual appearance of parameter maps and on measured tissue leakage rates. The computational model permits a greater understanding of the sensitivity and limitations of subtle BBB leakage measurement and provides a non-invasive means of testing and optimising imaging protocols for future studies.
Symmetry of Galactic Structure
Richard Oldani
Subject: Physical Sciences, Acoustics Keywords: gravitomagnetics; mass-energy equivalence; quantum mechanics; relativity theory; 14 symmetry; uncertainty; conjugate variables; time; non-inertial reference systems; causality
It is hypothesized that due to mass-energy equivalence there exist transverse fields caused 7 by energy flows that are analogous to gravitomagnetic fields generated by mass flows. 8 Relativistically correct equations describing energy flow are derived by using the action integral of 9 a Lagrangian and assuming that the properties of energy, when described four-dimensionally with 10 time, are independent of the material system which supports them. The equations allow the 11 electromagnetic and gravitational energy flows to be compared revealing an underlying symmetry 12 of galactic structure.
Derivation of All Linear Transformations that Meet the Results of Michelson-Morley's Experiment and Discussion of the Relativity Basics
Subject: Physical Sciences, General & Theoretical Physics Keywords: coordinate and time transformation; kinematics; universal frame of reference; one-way speed of light; anisotropy of cosmic microwave background
The article presents formal proof that the Special Theory of Relativity is wrong, that is, the interpretation of the mathematics on which STR is based, proposed by Einstein is incorrect. The article shows that there are infinitely many kinematics in which one-way speed of light is always equal to c. The kinematics of Special Theory of Relativity (STR) is only one of those infinitely many kinematics. It presents that mathematics on which STR kinematics is based can be interpreted differently and this leads to other conclusions on the properties of this kinematics. In this article, the whole class of linear transformations of time and coordinate was derived. Transformations were derived on the assumption that conclusions from Michelson-Morley's and Kennedy-Thorndikea's experiments are met for the observer from each inertial frame of reference, i.e. that the mean velocity of light in the vacuum flowing along the way back and forth is constant. It was also assumed that there is at least one inertial frame of reference, in which the velocity of light in a vacuum in each direction has the same value c, and the space is isotropic for observers from this distinguished inertial frame of reference (universal frame of reference). Derived transformations allow for building many different kinematics according to Michelson-Morley's and Kennedy-Thorndikea's experiments. The class of transformations derived in the study is a generalization of transformations derived in the paper [10], which consists in enabling non-zero values of parameter e(v). The idea of such a generalization derives from the person, who gave me this extended transformations class for analysis and publication.
Investigations of the Copper Peptide Hepcidin-25 by LC-MS/MS and NMR
Ioana M. Abbas, Marija Vranic, Holger Hoffmann, Ahmed H. El-Khatib, Maria Montes-Bayón, Heiko M. Möller, Michael G. Weller
Subject: Life Sciences, Biochemistry Keywords: hepcidin-25; copper; nickel; ATCUN motif; metal complex; MS; NMR structure; metal peptide, metalloprotein; metallopeptide, isomerization, racemization, purity, reference material
Hepcidin-25 was identified as the main iron regulator in the human body by binding to the sole iron-exporter ferroportin. Studies showed that the N-terminus of hepcidin is responsible for this interaction, the same N-terminus that encompasses a small copper(II)-binding site known as ATCUN (amino terminal Cu(II)- and Ni(II)- binding) motif. Interestingly, this copper-binding property is largely ignored in most papers dealing with hepcidin-25. In this context, detailed investigations of the formed complex of hepcidin-25 with copper could reveal insights into its biological role. The present work is mainly focused on the study of the metal-bound form of hepcidin-25, which could be considered the biologically active form. The first part is devoted to the reversed-phase chromatographic separation of copper-bound and copper-free hepcidin-25, which was achieved by applying basic mobile phases containing 0.1% ammonia. Further, mass spectrometry (tandem mass spectrometry MS/MS, high resolution mass spectrometry HRMS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy were employed to characterize the copper-peptide. Lastly, a 3D model of hepcidin-25 with bound copper(II) is presented. The identification of metal complexes and potential isoforms and isomers, from which the latter usually are left undetected by mass spectrometry, led to the conclusion that complementary analytical methods are needed to characterize a peptide calibrant or reference material comprehensively. Quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance (qNMR), inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), ion-mobility spectrometry (IMS) and chiral amino acid analysis (AAA) should be considered among others.
On the Role of Cosmic Mass in Understanding the Relationships among Galactic Dark Matter, Visible Matter and Flat Rotation Speeds
U.V.S. Seshavatharam, S. Lakshminarayana
Subject: Physical Sciences, Astronomy & Astrophysics Keywords: Planck mass; Mach's principle; distance cosmic mass; galactic visible mass; galactic dark mass; galactic flat rotation speeds; time dependent reference mass;
With reference to our recently proposed Planck Scale White Hole Cosmology (PS-WHC) or Flat Space Cosmology (PS-FSC), we make an attempt to quantify galactic dark matter and flat rotation speeds in terms of galactic visible matter and cosmic mass. Considering recently observed dwarf galaxies having very little dark matter and assuming a time dependent reference mass unit of $M_X\cong \left(\mbox{3.0 to 4.0}\right)\times 10^{38}$ kg, we suggest an empirical relation for galactic dark matter $M_d$ via galactic visible mass $M_v$ as,$M_d \cong \frac{M_v^{3/2}}{M_X^{1/2}}$. This relation helps in fitting flat rotation speeds starting from 8 km/sec (for Segue 2) to 500 km/sec (for UGC12591). Modifying MOND's galactic flat rotation speed relation with Hubble mass $M_0\cong \left(\frac{c^3}{2GH_0}\right)$ of the universe, ratio of galactic flat rotation speed $V_G$ to speed of light $c$ can be shown to be approximately $\frac{V_G}{c} \cong 0.5 \left(\frac{M_v}{M_0}\right)^{1/4}$. Considering the sum of galactic dark matter and visible matter, ratio of galactic flat rotation speed to speed of light can be shown to be approximately $\frac{V_G}{c}\cong 0.25 \left(\frac{M_v+M_d}{M_0}\right)^{1/4}$. With further study, dark matter's nature, effect and distribution can be understood in terms of visible matter's extended gravity and extended theories of gravity can be understood with 'distance cosmic mass' rather than the empirical 'minimum acceleration'.
Quantum Similarity in our DNA, and in DNA Storage
Andrew M. K. Nassief
Subject: Mathematics & Computer Science, Algebra & Number Theory Keywords: Quantum Similarity; DNA; Molecular Biology; Meticodes; response variance; object set reference; Bioinformatics; Computational Physics; Computational Models; Mathematics; Probability; Statistics; Comparative Modeling; Biostatics; Biostatistics
The usage of Quantum Similarity through the equation Z = {∀θ ∈ Z → ∃s ∈ S ∧ ∃t ∈ T : θ = (s, t)}, represents a way to analyze the way communication works in our DNA. Being able to create the object set reference for z being (s, t) in our DNA strands, we are able to set logical tags and representations of our DNA in a completely computational form. This will allow us to have a better understanding of the sequences that happen in our DNA. With this approach, we can also utilize mathematical formulas such as the Euler–Mascheroni constant, regression analysis, and computational proofs to answer important questions on Quantum biology, Quantum similarity, and Theoretical Physics.
The Concept of Designing BiJT Operational Amplifiers for Anti-aliasing Active LPF with a Low Level of Systematic Component of the Zero Offset Voltage
Vladislav Chumakov, Alexander Serebryakov, Alexey Titov, Nikolai Prokopenko
Subject: Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering Keywords: operational amplifier; compensation of the systematic component of the zero offset voltage; differential stage; buffer amplifier; current mirror; reference current source; BJT transistors; GaAs transistors.
The zero offset voltage in anti-aliasing low-pass filters (LPF) included at the ADC input has a significant effect on the effective bit rate of the ADC. The article discusses methods for minimizing the systematic component of the zero offset voltage (VOS) of operational amplifiers (Op-Amp) in the structure of the LPF, due to the degradation of the current gain of the base (b) of bipolar transistors for an extremely common subclass of Op-Amp with one high-impedance node. The methods of matching a high-impedance Op-Amp node and a buffer amplifier with the help of special correcting SCMp and SCMn multipolars are proposed. Methods of description and formation of the given coefficients of weak current asymmetry of typical Op-Amp functional units (current mirrors, input DS, buffer amplifiers, SRC, etc.) are presented. As an example, the results of computer simulation of GaAs Op-Amp with small VOS performed on JFET field and p-n-p bipolar transistors are given.
Efficient Self-Rotation Perception
Andrew Duggins
Subject: Life Sciences, Biophysics Keywords: special relativity; efficient coding hypothesis; temporal order judgement; circular vection; vestibulo-ocular reflex; time perception; Lorentz transformation; accelerated reference frame; equivalence principle; optimization of perception
An event occurring within a stationary environment, in the direction toward which an observer self-rotates, is perceived to precede a simultaneous event, in the direction away from which she moves. When self-rotation results from angular acceleration in the dark, perception of space is also distorted, such that the subjective straight-ahead shifts in the opposite direction to motion and temporal event promotion. A reference frameshift theory, based on the special theory of relativity, is proposed to explain these findings. Here, a hyperbolic tangent transformation of objective angular velocity constrains subjective self-rotation velocity within finite bounds, consistent with it being a limited perceptual resource. Identifying this subjective variable with vestibular nystagmus slow-phase angular velocity, the asymptotic perceived self-rotation velocity is estimated at ~200 °⁄s. When included in the Lorentz transformations of the new formalism, this value predicts experimental simultaneity distortion. Hypothetically, the hyperbolic tangent objective-to-subjective transfer function would maximize the differential entropy of the percept, and thereby also the stimulus/percept mutual information, if angular velocities of body rotation encountered in naturalistic environmental interaction have a logistic probability density distribution of scale 100 °⁄s, a proposed experimental test of the scheme.