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Very Simple (very + simple)
Terms modified by Very Simple Selected AbstractsSimple verification technique for complex Java bytecode subroutinesCONCURRENCY AND COMPUTATION: PRACTICE & EXPERIENCE, Issue 7 2004Alessandro Coglio Abstract Java is normally compiled to bytecode, which is verified and then executed by the Java Virtual Machine. Bytecode produced via compilation must pass verification. The main cause of complexity for bytecode verification is subroutines, used by compilers to generate more compact code. The techniques to verify subroutines proposed in the literature reject certain programs produced by mundane compilers, are difficult to realize within an implementation of the Java Virtual Machine or are relatively complicated. This paper presents a novel technique which is very simple to understand, implement and prove sound. It is also very powerful: the set of accepted programs has a simple characterization which most likely includes all the code produced by current compilers and which enables future compilers to make more extensive use of subroutines. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] A Case of Aptos Thread Migration and Partial ExpulsionDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 3 2005José G. Silva-Siwady MD Background In our practice, the use of dented polypropylene suture has become a very simple, conservative, and effective procedure for lifting flabby ptosed facial tissue, improving it without surgery. As with some cosmetic procedures, we have seen complications with this technique. Objective To present a case report of migration and partial expulsion of Aptos thread (TOTAL Charm, Moscow, Russia). Methods After successful fixation of facial tissue with 10 Aptos threads (5 on each side, 3 in the upper and central cheek, and 2 in the mandibular area), the patient returned 28 days later owing to migration and partial expulsion of one of the Aptos threads. Results The expulsed thread was easily removed, and the patient was treated with antibiotic therapy without further complications. Conclusion After this experience, we can conclude that Aptos threads are an additional tool in our arsenal for the treatment of facial aging. We must be especially cautious and aware that our patients can present with previously unknown complications secondary to newly described procedures, as with this recent technique. JOSé G. SILVA-SIWADY, MD, CELINA DÍAZ-GARZA, AND JORGE OCAMPO-CANDIANI, MD, HAVE INDICATED NO SIGNIFICANT INTEREST WITH COMMERCIAL SUPPORTERS. [source] A Percutaneous Approach to Eyebrow Lift: The Salvadorean OptionDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 8 2003Enrique Hernandez-Perez MD Background Surgical eyebrow lift can result in a number of complications. A nonsurgical simple method of lifting the brow is presented. Objective To raise the eyebrows using a simple, quick, and noninvasive approach. Methods Twenty-nine patients, 27 women and 2 men, whose ages varied from 24 to 56 years (mean of 32 years) were included in the study. Preoperative and postoperative photographs were taken. In two patients, brow suspension was performed at the time of blepharoplasty. Informed consent was signed by all of the patients. For measuring the degree of satisfaction of the patients, we gave to them a sheet grading it from one to three (with one being the least satisfactory). Local anesthesia (1% lidocaine, 1:400,000 epinephrine), a conveniently sized Keith needle, and prolene 3/0 sutures were used. Results Satisfying results were obtained in all cases. The only problem encountered in two patients was temporary edema, and it settled in a few days. Conclusion This is a very simple, quick, and noncomplicated method of raising the eyebrows. It can be repeated, revised easily, or combined with other modalities, such as peels, topical tretinoin, oral isotretinoin, fat injection, Goretex, and Botox as part of a facial rejuvenation program. [source] Synthesis and Characterization of MWNTs/Au NPs/HS(CH2)6Fc Nanocomposite: Application to Electrochemical Determination of Ascorbic AcidELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 16 2008Jian-Ding Qiu Abstract In this article, a detailed electrochemical study of a novel 6-ferrocenylhexanethiol (HS(CH2)6Fc) self-assembled multiwalled carbon nanotubes-Au nanoparticles (MWNTs/Au NPs) composite film was demonstrated. MWNTs/Au NPs were prepared by one-step in situ synthesis using linear polyethyleneimine (PEI) as bifunctionalizing agent. HS(CH2)6Fc, which acted as the redox mediator, was self-assembled to MWNTs/Au NPs via Au-S bond. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), Fourier transformed infrared absorption spectroscopy (FT-IR), UV-visible absorption spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry were used to characterize the properties of the MWNTs/Au NPs/HS(CH2)6Fc nanocomposite. The preparation of the nanocomposite was very simple and effectively prevented the leakage of the HS(CH2)6Fc mediator during measurements. The electrooxidation of AA could be catalyzed by Fc/Fc+ couple as a mediator and had a higher electrochemical response due to the unique performance of MWNTs/Au NPs. The nanocomposite modified electrode exhibited excellent catalytic efficiency, high sensitivity, good stability, fast response (within 3,s) and low detection limit toward the oxidation of AA at a lower potential. [source] Electroanalytical Approach to Evaluate Antioxidant Capacity in Honeys: Proposal of an Antioxidant IndexELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 18 2006Mónica Ávila Abstract A novel electrochemical route to estimate the antioxidant capacity in honey samples is proposed just using flow injection analysis. The analytical strategy involved the selective oxidation of polyphenolic compounds using two different target potentials, +0.8 and +0.5,V, at two different pHs. An oxidation current obtained at the fixed potential was used as an analytical guide of the antioxidant activity of the target honeys. Chemometrics (correlation and principal component analysis, PCA) demonstrated the significance of the electrochemical protocol versus the traditional spectrophotometric ones in the evaluation of antioxidant capacity and revealed the role of detection potential as a screening variable. The proposed protocol is very simple and fast. However, the most relevant merit of the electrochemical procedure is its inherent versatility which allows the evaluation of the antioxidant activity under predesigned controlled oxidation conditions. In addition, since intercept was statistically zero, its corresponding antioxidant content using just a calibration factor is proposed thus simplifying the calibration-analysis process. As a result, an electrochemical antioxidant index (EAI) is proposed. [source] Large-Scale Synthesis of Water Dispersible Ceria Nanocrystals by a Simple Sol,Gel Process and Their Use as a Chemical Mechanical Planarization SlurryEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF INORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 6 2008Taekyung Yu Abstract Ceria nanocrystals with a cube shape were synthesized from the hydrolytic sol,gel reaction of cerium salt in the presence of oleylamine. The overall synthetic process is very simple and readily applicable to the large-scale synthesis of tens of grams of product in a single reaction in air. These ceria nanocrystals are readily dispersible in aqueous media without the addition of any extra dispersing agent. The aqueous dispersion of the ceria nanocrystals was successfully used as a chemical mechanical polishing slurry, and it exhibited high removal selectivity between silicon oxide and silicon nitride at pH 7.(© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008) [source] Numerical determination of 3D temperature fields in steel jointsFIRE AND MATERIALS, Issue 2-4 2004Jean-Marc Franssen Abstract A numerical study was undertaken to investigate the temperature field in steel joints and to compare the temperatures in the joints with the temperatures of the adjacent steel members on the hypothesis that the thermal protection is the same on the joint and in the members. Very brief information is given on the numerical model, supplemented with parametric studies made in order to determine the required level of discretization in the time and in the space domain. A simplified assumption for representing the thermal insulation is also discussed and validated. Different numerical analyses are performed, with a variation of the following parameters: (i) type of joints, from very simple to more complex configurations, with welds and/or bolts, all of them representing joints between elements located in the same plane; (ii) unprotected joints or protected by one sprayed material; (iii) ISO, hydrocarbon or one natural fire scenario. The fact that the thermal attack from the fire might be less severe because the joints are usually located in the corner of the compartment is not taken into account. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Regional Climate Models for Hydrological Impact Studies at the Catchment Scale: A Review of Recent Modeling StrategiesGEOGRAPHY COMPASS (ELECTRONIC), Issue 7 2010Claudia Teutschbein This article reviews recent applications of regional climate model (RCM) output for hydrological impact studies. Traditionally, simulations of global climate models (GCMs) have been the basis of impact studies in hydrology. Progress in regional climate modeling has recently made the use of RCM data more attractive, although the application of RCM simulations is challenging due to often considerable biases. The main modeling strategies used in recent studies can be classified into (i) very simple constructed modeling chains with a single RCM (S-RCM approach) and (ii) highly complex and computing-power intensive model systems based on RCM ensembles (E-RCM approach). In the literature many examples for S-RCM can be found, while comprehensive E-RCM studies with consideration of several sources of uncertainties such as different greenhouse gas emission scenarios, GCMs, RCMs and hydrological models are less common. Based on a case study using control-run simulations of fourteen different RCMs for five Swedish catchments, the biases of and the variability between different RCMs are demonstrated. We provide a short overview of possible bias-correction methods and show that inter-RCM variability also has substantial consequences for hydrological impact studies in addition to other sources of uncertainties in the modeling chain. We propose that due to model bias and inter-model variability, the S-RCM approach is not advised and ensembles of RCM simulations (E-RCM) should be used. The application of bias-correction methods is recommended, although one should also be aware that the need for bias corrections adds significantly to uncertainties in modeling climate change impacts. [source] A new method to discriminate between a valid IP response and EM coupling effectsGEOPHYSICAL PROSPECTING, Issue 6 2002Jianping Xiang ABSTRACT The problem of discrimination between a valid induced polarization (IP) response and electromagnetic (EM) coupling effects is considered and an effective solution is provided. First, a finite dimensional approximation to the Cole-Cole model is investigated. Using the least-squares approach, the parameters of the approximate model are obtained. Next, based on the analysis of overvoltage, a finite dimensional structure of the IP model is produced. Using this overvoltage-based structure, a specific finite dimensional approximation of the Cole-Cole model is proposed. Summarizing the analysis of the finite dimensional IP model, it is concluded that the proposed IP model, which fits the field data much better than the traditional Cole-Cole model, is essentially an RC-circuit. From a circuit-analysis point of view, it is well known that an electromagnetic effect can be described by an RL-circuit. The simulation results on experimental data support this conception. According to this observation, a new method to discriminate between a valid IP response and EM coupling effects is proposed as follows: (i) use a special finite dimensional model for IP,EM systems; (ii) obtain the parameters for the model using a least-squares approach; (iii) separate RC-type terms and RL-type terms , the first models the IP behaviour, the latter represents the EM part. Simulation on experimental data shows that the method is very simple and effective. [source] Soft-Contact Optical Lithography Using Transparent Elastomeric Stamps and Application to Nanopatterned Organic Light-Emitting DevicesADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 9 2005T.-W. Lee Abstract Conventional photolithography uses rigid photomasks of fused quartz and high-purity silica glass plates covered with patterned microstructures of an opaque material. We introduce new, transparent, elastomeric molds (or stamps) of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) that can be employed as photomasks to produce the same resist pattern as the pattern of the recessed (or non-contact) regions of the stamps, in contrast to other reports in the literature[1] of using PDMS masks to generate edge patterns. The exposure dose of the non-contact regions with the photoresist through the PDMS is lower than that of the contact regions. Therefore, we employ a difference in the effective exposure dose between the contact and the non-contact regions through the PDMS stamp to generate the same pattern as the PDMS photomask. The photomasking capability of the PDMS stamps, which is similar to rigid photomasks in conventional photolithography, widens the application boundaries of soft-contact optical lithography and makes the photolithography process and equipment very simple. This soft-contact optical lithography process can be widely used to perform photolithography on flexible substrates, avoiding metal or resist cracks, as it uses soft, conformable, intimate contact with the photoresist without any external pressure. To this end, we demonstrate soft-contact optical lithography on a gold-coated PDMS substrate and utilized the patterned Au/PDMS substrate with feature sizes into the nanometer regime as a top electrode in organic light-emitting diodes that are formed by soft-contact lamination. [source] A modified and green methodology for preparation of polysubstituted furansHETEROATOM CHEMISTRY, Issue 4 2005Javad Azizian In this study, we introduced a very simple, one-pot and green methodology for preparation of polysubstituted furans by reaction of aromatic aldehydes, DMAD, and alkylisocyanides in water and at room temperature. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. 16:259,262, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20086 [source] A Facile Synthesis Approach to C8 -Functionalized Magnetic Carbonaceous Polysaccharide Microspheres for the Highly Efficient and Rapid Enrichment of Peptides and Direct MALDI-TOF-MS AnalysisADVANCED MATERIALS, Issue 21 2009Hemei Chen Biocompatible C8 -functionalized magnetic carbonaceous polysaccharide microspheres are synthesized via a facile, low-cost, and large-scale route, and their use for the enrichment of peptides from protein digest mixtures is presented. The process of enrichment is very simple, quick, and efficient. Peptides loaded onto the C8 -functionalized magnetic carbonaceous polysaccharide microspheres can be directly analyzed by MALDI-TOF-MS without prior elution from the microspheres. [source] Improved four-node Hellinger,Reissner elements based on skew coordinatesINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR NUMERICAL METHODS IN ENGINEERING, Issue 6 2008K. Wisniewski Abstract Mixed four-node elements based on the Hellinger,Reissner (HR) functional are developed for stress representations in various coordinates, including the skew, natural and Cartesian ones. The two-field HR functional is used in the classical form and in the incremental form suitable for non-linear materials. We argue that the skew coordinates, not the natural ones, should be associated with the natural basis at the element's center. If 5- and 7-parameter stress representations are assumed in these coordinates, then, for a linear elastic case, the homogenous equilibrium equations and the stress form of compatibility equation are satisfied point-wise. Two mixed four-node elements are developed and tested: 1.An assumed stress element (HR5-S) is developed from the non-enhanced HR functional, for a 5-parameter representation of stresses, formally identical as the one used, for example, in Pian and Sumihara [Int. J. Numer. Meth. Engng 1984; 20:1685,1695], but in terms of skew coordinates. This element is very simple and uses a smaller number of parameters, but is equally accurate as the elements by Yuan et al. [Int. J. Numer. Meth. Engng 1993; 36:1747,1763] and by Piltner and Taylor [Int. J. Numer. Meth. Engng 1995; 38:1783,1808]. 2.An assumed stress/enhanced strain element (HR9) is developed from the enhanced HR functional, for a 7-parameter representation of stress and a 2-parameter enhanced assumed displacement gradient or enhanced assumed strain enhancement. Various forms of 7-parameter representations appearing in the literature are reviewed, and we prove that they are linked by a linear onto transformation. The choice of coordinates for the stress and the enhancement turns out to be the crucial factor, and four combinations of coordinates for which the element performs the best are identified. Both elements are based on the Green strain, and several numerical tests show their good accuracy, in particular, their robustness to shape distortions for coarse meshes. Two update schemes for the multipliers of modes and the incremental constitutive procedure accounting for the plane stress condition for non-linear materials are tested for large deformation problems. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Lower-bound limit analysis by using the EFG method and non-linear programmingINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR NUMERICAL METHODS IN ENGINEERING, Issue 3 2008Shenshen Chen Abstract Intended to avoid the complicated computations of elasto-plastic incremental analysis, limit analysis is an appealing direct method for determining the load-carrying capacity of structures. On the basis of the static limit analysis theorem, a solution procedure for lower-bound limit analysis is presented firstly, making use of the element-free Galerkin (EFG) method rather than traditional numerical methods such as the finite element method and boundary element method. The numerical implementation is very simple and convenient because it is only necessary to construct an array of nodes in the domain under consideration. The reduced-basis technique is adopted to solve the mathematical programming iteratively in a sequence of reduced self-equilibrium stress subspaces with very low dimensions. The self-equilibrium stress field is expressed by a linear combination of several self-equilibrium stress basis vectors with parameters to be determined. These self-equilibrium stress basis vectors are generated by performing an equilibrium iteration procedure during elasto-plastic incremental analysis. The Complex method is used to solve these non-linear programming sub-problems and determine the maximal load amplifier. Numerical examples show that it is feasible and effective to solve the problems of limit analysis by using the EFG method and non-linear programming. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] A simple finite element model for vibration analyses induced by moving vehiclesINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR NUMERICAL METHODS IN ENGINEERING, Issue 12 2006Shen-Haw Ju Abstract This study developed a simple finite element method combining the moving wheel element, spring,damper element, lumped mass and rigid link effect to simulate complicated vehicles. The advantages of this vehicle model are (1) the dynamic matrix equation is symmetric, (2) the theory and formulations are very simple and can be added to a standard dynamic finite element codes easily and (3) very complicated vehicle models can be assembled using the proposed elements as simple as the traditional finite element method. The Fryba's solution of a simply supported beam subjected to a moving two-axle system was analysed to validate this finite element model. For a number of numerical simulations, the two solutions are almost identical, which means that the proposed finite element model of moving vehicles is considerably accurate. Field measurements were also used to validate this vehicle model through a very complicated finite element analysis, which indicates that the current moving vehicle model can be used to simulate complex problem with acceptable accuracy. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] F-bar-based linear triangles and tetrahedra for finite strain analysis of nearly incompressible solids.INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR NUMERICAL METHODS IN ENGINEERING, Issue 3 2005Part I: formulation, benchmarking Abstract This paper proposes a new technique which allows the use of simplex finite elements (linear triangles in 2D and linear tetrahedra in 3D) in the large strain analysis of nearly incompressible solids. The new technique extends the F-bar method proposed by de Souza Neto et al. (Int. J. Solids and Struct. 1996; 33: 3277,3296) and is conceptually very simple: It relies on the enforcement of (near-) incompressibility over a patch of simplex elements (rather than the point-wise enforcement of conventional displacement-based finite elements). Within the framework of the F-bar method, this is achieved by assuming, for each element of a mesh, a modified (F-bar) deformation gradient whose volumetric component is defined as the volume change ratio of a pre-defined patch of elements. The resulting constraint relaxation effectively overcomes volumetric locking and allows the successful use of simplex elements under finite strain near-incompressibility. As the original F-bar procedure, the present methodology preserves the displacement-based structure of the finite element equations as well as the strain-driven format of standard algorithms for numerical integration of path-dependent constitutive equations and can be used regardless of the constitutive model adopted. The new elements are implemented within an implicit quasi-static environment. In this context, a closed form expression for the exact tangent stiffness of the new elements is derived. This allows the use of the full Newton,Raphson scheme for equilibrium iterations. The performance of the proposed elements is assessed by means of a comprehensive set of benchmarking two- and three-dimensional numerical examples. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Essential boundary condition enforcement in meshless methods: boundary flux collocation methodINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR NUMERICAL METHODS IN ENGINEERING, Issue 3 2002Cheng-Kong C. Wu Abstract Element-free Galerkin (EFG) methods are based on a moving least-squares (MLS) approximation, which has the property that shape functions do not satisfy the Kronecker delta function at nodal locations, and for this reason imposition of essential boundary conditions is difficult. In this paper, the relationship between corrected collocation and Lagrange multiplier method is revealed, and a new strategy that is accurate and very simple for enforcement of essential boundary conditions is presented. The accuracy and implementation of this new technique is illustrated for one-dimensional elasticity and two-dimensional potential field problems. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Simple efficient algorithm (SEA) for shallow flows with shock wave on dry and irregular bedsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR NUMERICAL METHODS IN FLUIDS, Issue 11 2008Alireza Zia Abstract An explicit Godunov-type solution algorithm called SEA (simple efficient algorithm) has been introduced for the shallow water equations. The algorithm is based on finite volume conservative discretisation method. It can deal with wet/dry and irregular beds. Second-order accuracy, in both time and space, is achieved using prediction and correction steps. A very simple and efficient flux limiting technique is used to equip the algorithm with total variation dimensioning property for shock capturing purposes. In order to make sure about the balance between the flux gradient and the bed slope, treatment of the source term has been done using a new procedure inspired mainly by the physical rather than mathematical consideration. SEA has been applied to one-dimensional problems, although it can equally be applied to multi-dimensional problems. In order to assess the capability of proposed algorithm in dealing with practical applications, several test cases have been examined. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Penile vibratory stimulation and electroejaculation in the treatment of ejaculatory dysfunction,INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ANDROLOGY, Issue 6 2002JENS SŘNKSEN Summary The purpose of this review is to present the current understanding of penile vibratory stimulation (PVS) and electroejaculation (EEJ) procedures and its clinical use in men with ejaculatory dysfunction. Unfortunately, the record of treating such individuals has been quite poor, but within recent years development and refinement of PVS and EEJ in men with spinal cord injury (SCI) has significantly enhanced the prospects for treatment of ejaculatory dysfunction. The majority of spinal cord injured men are not able to produce antegrade ejaculation by masturbation or sexual stimulation. However, approximately 80% of all spinal cord injured men with an intact ejaculatory reflex arc (above T10) can obtain antegrade ejaculation with PVS. Electroejaculation may be successful in obtaining ejaculate from men with all types of SCI, including men who do not have major components of the ejaculatory reflex arc. Because vibratory stimulation is very simple in use, non-invasive, it does not require anaesthesia and is preferred by the patients when compared with EEJ, PVS is recommended to be the first choice of treatment in spinal cord injured men. Furthermore, EEJ has been successfully used to induce ejaculation in men with multiple sclerosis and diabetic neuropathy. Any other conditions which affect the ejaculatory mechanism of the central and/or peripheral nervous system including surgical nerve injury may be treated successfully with EEJ. Finally, for sperm retrieval and sperm cryopreservation before intensive anticancer therapy in pubertal boys, PVS and EEJ have been successfully performed in patients who failed to obtain ejaculation by masturbation. Nearly all data concerning semen characteristics in men with ejaculatory dysfuntion originate from spinal cord injured men. Semen analyses demonstrate low sperm motility rates in the majority of spinal cord injured men. The data give evidence of a decline in spermatogenesis and motility of ejaculated spermatozoa shortly after (few weeks) an acute SCI. Furthermore, it is suggested that some factors in the seminal plasma and/or disordered storage of spermatozoa in the seminal vesicles are mainly responsible for the impaired semen profiles in men with chronic SCI. Home insemination with semen obtained by penile vibratory and introduced intravaginally in order to achieve successful pregnancies may be an option for some spinal cord injured men and their partners. The majority of men will further enhance their fertility potential when using either penile vibratory or EEJ combined with assisted reproduction techniques such as intrauterine insemination or in-vitro fertilization with or without intracytoplasmic sperm injection. [source] Analysis of a clock-recovery technique for circuit emulation services over packet networksINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS, Issue 1 2008James Aweya Abstract One important requirement of circuit emulation services (CES) over packet networks is clock synchronization and timing distribution among the nodes. CES depends on reliable and high-quality timing for operations. In the time division multiplexing (TDM) world, whether plesiochronous digital hierarchy (PDH), synchronous digital hierarchy (SDH) or synchronous optical network (SONET) based, timing and synchronization is inherent in the design of the network. However, when timing critical services such PDH and SDH/SONET are carried over packet network (e.g. IP, Ethernet, etc.), the timing element is lost and has to be carried across the packet network by other means. A well-known and widely implemented technique for clock recovery in CES is one that is based on packet inter-arrival time (sometimes called time difference of arrival) averaging. The technique is very simple to implement but provides good performance only when packet losses and packet delay variation (PDV) are very low and well controlled. This technique has been extensively analysed through simulations but has not been fully characterized analytically with correlated traffic in the literature. In this paper, we provide a full analytical examination of this well-known clock recovery technique. We analyse the effects of correlation of the delay variation in the traffic stream on the quality of the clock recovered by a receiver. We prove analytically that, for a general input process, high correlation of the delay variation produces a large variance of the recovered clock. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] On parameter estimation of a simple real-time flow aggregation modelINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS, Issue 7 2006Huirong Fu Abstract There exists a clear need for a comprehensive framework for accurately analysing and realistically modelling the key traffic statistics that determine network performance. Recently, a novel traffic model, sinusoid with uniform noise (SUN), has been proposed, which outperforms other models in that it can simultaneously achieve tractability, parsimony, accuracy (in predicting network performance), and efficiency (in real-time capability). In this paper, we design, evaluate and compare several estimation approaches, including variance-based estimation (Var), minimum mean-square-error-based estimation (MMSE), MMSE with the constraint of variance (Var+MMSE), MMSE of autocorrelation function with the constraint of variance (Var+AutoCor+MMSE), and variance of secondary demand-based estimation (Secondary Variance), to determining the key parameters in the SUN model. Integrated with the SUN model, all the proposed methods are able to capture the basic behaviour of the aggregation reservation system and closely approximate the system performance. In addition, we find that: (1) the Var is very simple to operate and provides both upper and lower performance bounds. It can be integrated into other methods to provide very accurate approximation to the aggregation's performance and thus obtain an accurate solution; (2) Var+AutoCor+MMSE is superior to other proposed methods in the accuracy to determine system performance; and (3) Var+MMSE and Var+AutoCor+MMSE differ from the other three methods in that both adopt an experimental analysis method, which helps to improve the prediction accuracy while reducing computation complexity. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] One-Pot Palladium-Catalyzed Synthesis of Selectively Substituted Phenanthridines by Sequential Aryl-Aryl and Heck Couplings, Aza-Michael and Retro-Mannich ReactionsADVANCED SYNTHESIS & CATALYSIS (PREVIOUSLY: JOURNAL FUER PRAKTISCHE CHEMIE), Issue 9 2010Nicola Della Ca' Abstract A catalytic synthesis of selectively substituted phenanthridines is achieved through a reaction sequence involving palladium/norbornene-catalyzed unsymmetrical aryl-aryl and Heck couplings followed by aza-Michael and retro-Mannich reactions. In spite of the many steps involved the method is very simple and allows the formation of selectively substituted phenanthridines under mild conditions in a straightforward one-pot reaction starting from readily available aryl iodides and bromides. [source] Diameter of the human internal acoustic meatus and sex determinationINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OSTEOARCHAEOLOGY, Issue 2 2006N. Lynnerup Abstract We report the results of testing the diameter of the internal opening of the acoustic canal in the petrous part of the temporal bone for sex determination of skeletal remains. The method involves measuring the diameter using a suite of ordinary drills. The method is very simple and has the great advantage of utilising one of the sturdiest bone elements of the human skeleton. The method may be especially useful for the analyses of very fragmented skeletal remains or cremated bones, where the petrous bone may still be readily recognisable. The method was tested using a forensic sample of 113 left petrous bones with known sex. Intra- and inter-observer testing was also performed. We found a statistically significant difference in diameter between males and females (means: males: 3.7,mm; females: 3.4,mm; P,<,0.009). However, the low predictive value (70%) for correct sexing using two sectioning points (,<,3.0,mm,=,female; >3.5,mm,=,male) was disappointing. No additional accuracy was gained by employing both left and right petrous bones (a bilateral sample of 60 petrous bones was also tested), although left and right side diameter is highly correlated (R,=,0.778; P,=,0.0001). Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Ventral based dartos flap for the prevention of the urethrocutaneous fistula urethroplastyINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 8 2007Yutaro Hayashi Background: Urethrocutaneous fistula is a common complication of urethroplasty for hypospadias even when a microsurgical technique is applied. Methods: From January 1999 to November 2006, we applied the ventral based dartos flap wrapping technique to prevent the occurrence of urethrocutaneous fistula in 34 patients with hypospadias. Results: Hypospadias was repaired without fistula formation in 31 patients while three patients developed a tiny fistula, which was later closed successfully by a simple procedure. Conclusion: We conclude that the ventral based dartos flap wrapping technique could be an alternative to the dorsal dartos flap for covering the neourethra with a vascularized flap because the procedure is very simple, and complications rarely occur. [source] Medical rhinoplasty with hyaluronic acid and botulinum toxin A: a very simple and quite effective techniqueJOURNAL OF COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY, Issue 3 2008Alessio Redaelli MD Summary Objective, The management of nasal deformities, and in particular those with "plunging" tip, has always been a typical area of interest in surgery. In the author's experience many of these problems can be successfully approached with a new medical technique, which consists of using only hyaluronic acid for the correction of nasal angles and botulinum toxin for patients with hyperactivity of the depressor septi nasi muscle. The present study aims to illustrate this new technique and evaluates safety and results. Materials and methods, Ninety-five patients were treated between January 2006 and July 2007. The average age of the patients was 42.7 years. In 45% of the cases, botulinum toxin was employed. In all of the cases, the treatment was conducted with hyaluronic acid (24 mg/mL), the same substance used for face rejuvenation. The amount varied from 0.6 to 1.4 mL. Results Results were evaluated using a definitive graduated score calculated by patient's and doctor's satisfaction score (range, 1,10) and by photographs' score at time 0, after 30 days, and after 180 days. It ranged from 8 to 10 (average of 9.1). No significant side effects were reported. Conclusion, The medical rhinoplasty for a "plunging" nose is a simple and very effective technique with immediate results. It can be used in those cases where patients are reluctant to undergo surgery, or as primary indication in the correction of minor nose defects. Results are satisfactory and no side effects have been reported so far. Results will last for a long time. [source] Dynamic modeling, stability, and energy efficiency of a quadrupedal walking machineJOURNAL OF FIELD ROBOTICS (FORMERLY JOURNAL OF ROBOTIC SYSTEMS), Issue 11 2001Ben Sheng Lin In the past, the dynamics of walking machines was studied based on very simple or simplified leg structures. A more complete dynamic model is essential for the further development of a practical walking machine. In this paper, the dynamic model of a realistic quadrupedal walking machine is derived for simulation and real-time control purposes. The walker has four cylindrical pantograph legs, and the whole system consists of twenty-nine links. The walking gait is wave gait with at least three feet on the ground at any time. Significant efforts have been made to improve the computational efficiency of the inverse dynamics, and the required CPU time is less than 10 ms on an IBM 3090. The derived dynamic model is then applied to study two practical issues of walking: dynamic stability and mechanical efficiency of different legs and gaits. Simulation results show clear advantages of one leg type over another, and of some walking strategies in terms of adjusting velocities, strokes, and duty factors for greater efficiency. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. [source] Prediction of flammability characteristics of pure hydrocarbons from molecular structuresAICHE JOURNAL, Issue 3 2010Yong Pan Abstract A quantitative structure-property relationship study is performed to develop mathematical models for predicting the flammability characteristics of pure hydrocarbons. The molecular structures of the compounds are numerically represented by various kinds of molecular descriptors. Genetic algorithm based multiple linear regression is used to select most statistically effective descriptors on the flash point, the autoignition temperature, and the lower and upper flammability limits of hydrocarbons, respectively. The resulted models are four multilinear equations. These models are very simple and can predict the flash point, the autoignition temperature, and the lower and upper flammability limits for the test set with average absolute errors of 5.41 K, 28.00 K, 0.044 vol %, and 0.503 vol %, respectively. The models are further compared with other published method and are shown to be more superior. The proposed method can be used to predict the flammability characteristics of hydrocarbons from the knowledge of only the molecular structures. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010 [source] A heuristic design procedure for water-using networks with multiple contaminantsAICHE JOURNAL, Issue 2 2009Zhi-Yong Liu Abstract On the analogy of the water-using networks with single contaminant, we will introduce new methodology concepts: the concentration potentials of the demand streams and those of the source streams in the water-using systems with multiple contaminants, based on the overall allocation possibility of the source streams to the demand streams. In the design procedure, the performing order of the processes is determined by the inlet concentration potentials of the processes. The processes with the lowest inlet concentration potential will be performed first. When satisfying the inlet stream of the process being performed, the source with the largest quasi-allocation amount, which is defined in this article, will be used first. A few literature examples are investigated to show the method proposed. The results show that the method proposed in this work is very simple and the freshwater consumptions of the designs obtained are very close to the minimum freshwater targets. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009 [source] A rapid method for assessment of plant residue qualityJOURNAL OF PLANT NUTRITION AND SOIL SCIENCE, Issue 5 2003Praveen-Kumar Abstract A simple, reproducible and new method (modified dehydrogenase activity measurement after 72 h; DHA 72) was developed to assess plant residue quality for decomposition. The method resulted in similar assessments of residue quality than measurements of the C:N ratio, lignin:N ratio, and lignin and polyphenol concentration (PRQI). Among 25 plant residues tested, there was a large variation of DHA 72 as found in other well-established methods. Based on cluster analysis, plant residues were grouped in four different classes; highly decomposable, moderately decomposable, slowly decomposable, and least decomposable. It is concluded that DHA 72 can very well be used to screen plant residues for residue quality judgment. The proposed method is very simple and easy to handle. [source] Poly(ether tert -amine): A novel family of multiresponsive polymerJOURNAL OF POLYMER SCIENCE (IN TWO SECTIONS), Issue 5 2009Yanrong Ren Abstract A novel multiresponsive poly(ether tert -amine) (PEA) was synthesized by nucleophilic addition/ring-opening reaction of commercial poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), poly(propylene oxide) (PPO), and di-epoxy and di-amine monomer. The process of synthesis was very simple and green in ethanol as reactive media. These PEAs exhibit sharp response to temperature, pH, and ionic strength, with adjustable and sharp phase transitions in the range of 27,100 °C. The lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of PEA's aqueous solution presents a linear relationship to the PEO content (y = 35.7 + x), indicating well-tunable LCST. The concentration of PEA has no obvious effect on LCST. Therefore, PEA will be potential in applications of drug delivery, separation, and biotechnology. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 1292,1297, 2009 [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||