Acceptance Test Research Articles

AAT4IRS: automated acceptance testing for industrial robotic systems.

Industrial robotic systems (IRS) consist of industrial robots that automate industrial processes. They accurately perform repetitive tasks, replacing or assisting with dangerous jobs like assembly in the automotive and chemical industries. Failures in these systems can be catastrophic, so it is important to ensure their quality and safety before using them. One way to do this is by applying a software testing process to find faults before they become failures. However, software testing in industrial robotic systems has some challenges. These include differences in perspectives on software testing from people with diverse backgrounds, coordinating and collaborating with diverse teams, and performing software testing within the complex integration inherent in industrial environments. In traditional systems, a well-known development process uses simple, structured sentences in English to facilitate communication between project team members and business stakeholders. This process is called behavior-driven development (BDD), and one of its pillars is the use of templates to write user stories, scenarios, and automated acceptance tests. We propose a software testing (ST) approach called automated acceptance testing for industrial robotic systems (AAT4IRS) that uses natural language to write the features and scenarios to be tested. We evaluated our ST approach through a proof-of-concept, performing a pick-and-place process and applying mutation testing to measure its effectiveness. The results show that the test suites implemented using AAT4IRS were highly effective, with 79% of the generated mutants detected, thus instilling confidence in the robustness of our approach.

Fermentation dynamics, physicochemical and sensory characteristics of Malaysian traditional rice wines

PurposeMalaysian rice wines (tapai) manufactured in small-scale industries are usually formulated based on personal experiences under minimally controlled conditions for generations, especially in Sabah, one of the East Malaysian states. However, the quality and safety of rice wines were receiving increased attention to ensure better quality control, particularly those produced on an industrial scale. Therefore, this research aims to determine the fermentation dynamics and consumers’ acceptance of Malaysian rice wines produced using different sasad (a local term for starter culture from Sabah).Design/methodology/approachThe physicochemical [total soluble solids (TSS), alcohol content, total titratable acidity (TTA) and pH] and microbiological [total yeast and mould count (TYMC) and total lactic acid bacteria (LAB) count] changes in Malaysian rice wines were determined to better understand the fermentation process for future process optimisation. Additionally, sensory evaluations were conducted to determine the consumers’ preferences for the rice wines.FindingsThe overall fermentation dynamics of rice wines exhibited similar trends with slight variations between the samples, demonstrating the effect of microbial compositions of sasad on the quality of final rice wines. Additionally, consumer acceptance tests showed that rice wines with darker shades of yellow and a stronger alcoholic aroma were preferable.Originality/valueThis is the first research that provides important insights into both the fermentation dynamics and consumers’ acceptance of Malaysian traditional rice wines, enriching the rice wine literature from the academic perspective and contributing to the production of safe and high-quality rice wines.

B-128 Delivering Predictable Operational efficiency gains at our core central reference laboratory with strategic deployment of navify® Lab Operation informatics automation solution

Abstract Background Metropolis Healthcare Limited (‘MHL’) operates a network of 200 clinical labs in India, our Global Reference Lab (GRL) in Mumbai processes over 25000 tests in a 17 hour daily operation. We are an ISO15189 and CAP accredited laboratory. Our strategic goals have been to bring operational standardization across the network & Improve speed of service with a predictable 90 percentile production TAT. To achieve this goal, we chose digitalization of our laboratory operation with the deployment of navify ® Lab Operations informatics automation solution in. This poster explains our journey of planning, implementing, and delivering on our goal of predictable operational efficiency. The digital solution is at the forefront of all digitalization IQC processes, auto validation and auto approval of patient results passing through a framework of autoverification rules and complete traceability of processes. Methods The poster will explain the scope, planning and implementation approach of this digital automation project at Global reference Lab in 5 stepsHL7 order structure for communication between LIS and navify ® Lab Operations22 analyzers from 11 different manufacturers being connected to the Informatics solution. the corresponding testingTest & IQC (Internal Quality Control) Master with specific ranges and rules10 steps AV (Auto verification) Rules decision framework of concentric sieves across lab disciplines (155 AV Algorithms have been configured at GRL)Structured user acceptance testing framework before Go Live. Results This poster discusses the outcomes that we have seen on deployment of this digital solution.Over 25,000 test results are subject AV engine daily with AV rate of 75 % of all results in Biochemistry, Immunoassays.66 % of all Complete Blood Count (CBC) reports 95 % of all HbA1c results 93 % of all ESR resultsOver 1750 QC results are subject to QC rules dailyThere is an improvement of 4 hours observed in production TAT Conclusions Laboratory Informatics solution has enhanced lab performance in terms of TAT & efficiency of review. The staff satisfaction (both technical and medical) has increased and we see an impact on production outcome. The poster will also show an incremental effectiveness analysis by comparing key performance areas such as predictability in production, staff time saved, before and after technology deployment.

Quality Control Procedure of Different Parameters of X-Rays System and Optimization of Radiation Doses to the Patient

Quality control helps radio-diagnostic facilities achieve appropriate radiological information with little dose and cost. In this study, quality control tests included Kilovoltage kVp accuracy and reproducibility, KVp and timer reproducibility, taking voltage verses radiation doses checking and reproducibility, milliampere(mA) and timer linearity, milliampere second mAs reproducibility and output doses verses mAs, light-radiation collimator integrity, Perpendicularity, and HVL These results were compared to established methods. A certified physicist should do this test. Equipment functionality was determined via the status test. This was done shortly following the acceptance test. The test is repeated after repair that affects functional status, like the acceptance test. A certified physicist performs the status test, which involves absolute measurements. All processes at AECH DINAR D.I. Khan were within acceptable limits.

Monoammonium Glutamate: What Is Its Potential in the Reduction of Sodium Content in Different Food Matrices?

ABSTRACTThe objective of the study was to assess the efficacy of monoammonium glutamate (MAG) in reducing the sodium chloride (NaCl) content (CCRD) of food matrices, including shoestring potatoes, requeijão cheese, and beef burgers. To this end, a time intensity (TI) analysis, temporal dominance of sensations (TDSs), and acceptance tests were employed to evaluate the NaCl reduction in various food items. The TI analysis showed that all experimental units had a mean salty taste intensity that equaled or exceeded the control. The TDS profiles of shoestring potatoes and requeijão cheese and the control were similar. However, the requeijão cheese exhibited significantly lower acceptance than the controls. The food matrices influenced the potential use of MAG and the CCRD. The addition of 2% MAG to the formulation reduced the NaCl content by up to 50% in shoestring potatoes and 65% in beef burgers without compromising the temporal perception of a salty taste and sensory acceptance.

What can I do for my low back pain? The Work In Progress questionnaire!

There is growing evidence on Commitment Therapy for people with low back pain (LBP). A self-reported questionnaire is lacking which evaluates commitment by relying on the most recommended actions, the most important core outcome domains, and the most evidenced treatment options. To describe the development and psychometric validation of the Work In Progress (WIP) questionnaire. Development and psychometric validation of the WIP questionnaire in the context of people with LBP, as a means to evaluate Commitment. Outpatient facilities. People with LBP. The new instrument was created by item generation and selection. Face validity, appropriateness, acceptability and feasibility were investigated. Psychometric testing was carried out in a cross-sectional study and included: 1) exploratory factor analysis; 2) reliability by internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) and test-retest measurement (Intra-class Correlation Coefficient, ICC<inf>2.1</inf>); and 3) construct validity by hypothesis testing the correlation of the WIP questionnaire with the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and a pain intensity Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) (Pearson's r correlations). The WIP questionnaire was successfully developed based on international guidelines and the testing of face validity, appropriateness, acceptability and feasibility were satisfactory. The instrument was administered to 102 people with LBP (39 females, mean age of 49.7±14.6 years [range 20-80], pain median duration of 42.1 weeks [range 3-360]). Factor analysis revealed a two-factor 10-item solution (57% of explained variance). The internal consistency was good (α=0.70-85) and test-retest assessment was excellent (ICC<inf>2.1</inf>=0.91-94). Construct validity was good, as ≥75% of hypotheses were confirmed. The WIP questionnaire is a self-reported tool to evaluate commitment in persons with LBP showing satisfactory psychometric properties. It can be recommended for clinical and research purposes. This study adds original new data to the existing knowledge in the field of Commitment within the bio-psychosocial paradigm for disabled people. It is expected to contribute to the evaluative, clinical and rehabilitative approach of individuals with low back pain.

Qualitative acceptability testing of a paper-based care planner in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (mNSCLC).

259 Background: Patients with cancer and their caregivers often describe the fragmented, multi-modal and multi-provider cancer care experience as undertaking a difficult expedition without a map. Based on her experience in 2020 and using self and family management theories (doi: 10.1016/j.outlook.2008.10.004.), Daswani developed a pan-cancer patient planner, which helps patients and families prepare for appointments, track symptoms, and manage their care. It has been available since 2021 through hospitals, advocacy organizations and online retail channels. We adapted and customized the pan-cancer planner for patients with mNSCLC. We tested acceptability through a series of structured patient interviews, and a brief, in-person survey tool. Methods: A lung cancer survivor recruited members of the lung cancer community to participate in a 30-minute structured virtual interview. After reviewing the planner, interviewees were asked: 1) about their diagnosis and treatment experience and 2) to provide semi-structured feedback. We conducted interviews until thematic saturation was reached. We modified the planner based on interview results, distributed planners to patients and care-partners at a major lung cancer patient summit and immediately collected a brief survey to assess patient knowledge of their diagnosis and motivation for planner access. Results: The table shows high level thematic groups of interview responses. Interviewed patients concluded that the planner would have improved their experience because they would have: Stayed organized, facilitated note-taking during appointments, better tracked and managed symptoms &amp; meds, been more confident in decision-making and been able to journal, stay grounded and more mindful. Of 94 planners distributed at the summit, 49 patients knew their diagnosis, 31 knew their stage, 28 knew their cancer mutation status. Of the four domains of self-management, positive responses were: 1. Increase confidence 44 (47%) 2. Gain peace of mind 40 (43%) 3. Stay organized 58 (62%) 4. Manage meds &amp; symptoms 42 (45%). Conclusions: A paper based mNSCLC specific planner is acceptable to patients and they anticipate it would help with all four domains of self management (confidence, peace of mind, organization, med and symptom management) and enhance a difficult experience. We plan further usability testing as we did with the breast cancer planner (JCO Oncol Pract 19, 2023 (suppl 11; abstr 552)). Interviews of 8 (7 female, 1 male) patients (3 with English as a second language) were held in December 2023. Diagnosis Biomarker Testing Treatment Living with lung cancer Medical terms difficult to understand “Mutation” term caused anxiety Understanding options important Need for community Diagnosis often delayed Loss of agency Gratitude for care team Digital tools desired Cumulative trauma Additional languages Young adult survivorship desired

Model test and analyses for a mixed-flow pumping system in the S-to-N Water Diversion Project of China

Abstract Baoying Pumping Station as the first station built in the East Route of the S-to-N Water Diversion Project in China, due to the importance of water source project and its 5000 hours yearly operating time, a serial of model tests and other measures were taken to secure its safety and high efficiency operation. Through the comparative model tests in the preliminary design stage, it was made clear that mixed-flow pump was the right direction of pump selection. The acceptance model test indicated that all performance requirements were satisfied and the head-weighted efficiency of the pumping system reached 80.5%, which was about 7 percentages higher than that obtained in the preliminary research and a good foundation for its efficient and economical operation was laid. The optimization design of inlet and outlet flow passages was not significant for improve the efficiency of pumping system. The verification test results were very close to the acceptance test results, and have been confirmed each other. The international bidding and mechanism of joint venture in purchasing main equipment for Baoying pumping station proved to be a success in introducing advanced foreign technology, and its construction experience can provide a useful reference for similar pumping stations.

Evaluation of Physical and Sensory Properties of Biscuits Made from Blended Wheat Flour and Pumpkin Powder

Biscuit is a type of confectionery popular among all age groups and able to change to become a complete food with necessary nutrients. Pumpkin is a nutritious vegetable that has high post-harvest losses in Sri Lanka. The aim of this research was to analyze the composition of pumpkin powder and evaluate the physical and sensory properties of biscuits made from blended wheat flour and pumpkin powder. Analyses revealed that moisture, protein, fat, ash, crude fiber, and carbohydrate content of pumpkin powder were 8.5%, 5.2%, 1.2%, 3.4%, 4% and 77.7% respectively. Biscuits were made by replacing wheat flour with pumpkin powder at different levels as 0, 5, 10, 20, 30, and 40% (w/w) in the standard formulation. When the percentage of pumpkin powder increased from 10 to 40%, the thickness of biscuits decreased significantly compared to control (0%) There was a significant increment in the spread ratio of biscuits between 10 and 40% levels of pumpkin powder when compared with the control. While 10 to 40% replacement levels of pumpkin powder resulted in significant increase in biscuit hardness, it decreased moisture content significantly compared to control. The color of the biscuits was assessed in terms of lightness, redness, and yellowness. When increasing the pumpkin powder percentage in biscuit, lightness reduced, while redness and yellowness increased gradually. Consumer acceptability test on sensory attributes indicated 5% (w/w) level of pumpkin powder was the most preferred replacement level. The study concludes that pumpkin powder has the potential to be used in biscuit applications.

Consumer Behavior Analysis as a Form of Pre-market Survey for the Black Pule (Alstonia spectabilis) Antimalarial Tablet Prototype

Background: Malaria a disease caused by the protozoan parasite Plasmodium with a high incidence of spread that is still found in remote tropical places, especially areas around gardens, swamps, forests, and mines such as eastern Indonesia. The commonly used antimalarial drug chloroquine has experienced resistance, encouraging researchers to look for effective alternative treatments. Formulation development of Standardized Herbal Medicine (OHT) from black pule was carried out as a potential new alternative treatment as an antimalarial. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the level of liking and quality assessment or characteristics of the prototype of antimalarial OHT tablets. Methods: The method used in this research is descriptive quantitative which aims to describe the panelists' perspective on the product and to analyze product marketing. In this research method includes hedonic test and hedonic quality test which is a series of organoleptic tests and consumer acceptance tests by tasting and observing the product followed by filling out a form according to what is felt and observed. Results: The results obtained from this research, namely the preference test of the overall characteristics of the prototype of antimalarial black pule tablets (Alstonia spectabilis) showed a good sensory impression and characteristics. The positive results obtained from all aspects have illustrated that the panelists have considerable interest in the prototype sample and assess that the prototype tablets are suitable for dissemination to the public. Conclusions: Based on the research, it can be concluded that the prototype of black pule (Alstonia spectabilis) tablets tested through hedonic and hedonic quality tests produced overall good results, characterized by the tendency of panelists to choose "Like" in the hedonic test of sensory impressions and positive values in the hedonic quality test.

Pemanfaatan Odoo Untuk Implementasi HRIS Di Perusahaan Roti Menggunakan Metode ASAP

The importance of information technology in the advancement of human resource carriers is gaining momentum in the era of globalization and rapid technological developments today. The impact of information technology on the business environment has resulted in significant changes in the management of human resources in organizations. In the HRD system in a bread flour company, the management of each HRD business process is still done manually using paper as a document and for data storage using Ms. Excel, where HRD still has difficulty in managing employee data. With the method using BPMN, the HRD system business process can be analyzed, and the ASAP method for HRD system optimization using Odoo, the purpose of the study using odoo every business process starting from recruitment, absence, leave, orientation and training, and payroll will facilitate the HRD system in the company because each module is integrated, and data storage already uses a database. Then the results of this study after going through the User Acceptance Testing process using the Black Box Testing technique, the researcher can conclude that the use of Odoo to optimize the HRD system used passes functionally with several notes regarding user access rights that must be adjusted to the jobdesk of each employee.

Numerical analysis of the displacement of retaining wall in the Carpathian flysch region

This paper presents a numerical analysis of the displacement of the substructure for the construction of the S1 route bypassing Węgierska Górka. The numerical analysis includes displacement calculations taking into account the ground anchor stiffness obtained in acceptance tests. The results of the analysis were compared with monitoring measurements. A sensitivity analysis was carried out in relation to the soil parameters used and the achieved ground anchor stiffnesses

Development and pilot testing of the Population And ContExt adaption of decision aids (PACE) framework

ObjectiveThis study aimed to develop and pilot test a new framework for the adaptation of patient decision aids (PtDAs) using a specific case example of contraceptive method PtDAs for Chinese-speaking migrant women. MethodsWe developed a novel approach for adaptation – the PACE (Population And ContExt adaption of decision aids) framework – that incorporated both existing models and frameworks and innovative elements. It involves six stages: selection and appraisal; review by content experts; content validity and usability pre-testing; translation; decisional needs assessment; and perceived acceptability, usability and feasibility testing. We then followed the framework to pilot and adapt a suite of PtDAs on contraceptive methods for Chinese-speaking migrant women in Australia. Twenty healthcare providers and 22 Chinese migrant women participated during the stages five and six. ResultsThe pilot resulted in adapted PtDAs that were acceptable to end users. For future research, we proposed further recommendations and considerations based on lessons learnt, which include flexibility in applying the framework and considering an additional real-world evaluation step. ConclusionAdaptation of PtDAs required a multi-stage and multidisciplinary team-based and pragmatic approach as exemplified in the application of the PACE framework. InnovationThe PACE framework developed and piloted in this study fills a crucial gap in knowledge about how to adapt PtDAs for new populations and contexts and provides an innovative and systemic approach to guide the adaptation process.

Android-Based Public Complaint Service System in Malimongan Tua Sub-district, Makassar

The problem that occurs in the Public Complaints Service System in Malimongan Tua Village is the absence of a public complaint service system. Therefore, the researcher offers a solution to this problem by designing and implementing an Android-based public complaint service system. The purpose of this study is to design and implement an Android-based public complaint service system. Data were obtained through field research, library research, and interviews. The waterfall method is used in system development. The results of the study indicate that this data was obtained through observation, interviews, and library studies. The waterfall method is used in system development. The results of the study indicate that (the design and manufacture) of the Public Complaint Service System in Malimongan Tua Village, black box system testing ran well, and the results of User Acceptance Testing (UAT) testing on several respondents (Villages and Users) related to the use of the Android-based Public Complaint Service System Optimization application in Malimongan Tua Village, Makassar. In addition, the results of this study have been implemented in the form of community service, where this application helps the people of Malimongan Tua Village to convey their complaints more easily and efficiently, as well as improve the village government's response to problems faced by the community, it is concluded that this application is very suitable for use with a final score of 87.4%.

SISTEM INFORMASI MEDIA PROMOSI DAN PEMBELAJARAN KELOMPOK TARUNA TANI AULIA

This research focuses on the challenges faced by the Taruna Tani Aulia group in educating farmers about the transition from chemical fertilizers to organic fertilizers. Many farmers find the process of producing organic fertilizers complex and time-consuming, making them reluctant to switch. To address this issue, this study developed an information system that serves as both a promotional tool and a learning platform, facilitating the dissemination of information on the benefits of organic fertilizers and promoting organic fertilizer products sold by Taruna Tani Aulia. The system was developed using the Prototyping Method, allowing for iterative testing and evaluation with direct user feedback. The system was built using the Next.js framework to streamline the development process. The results of testing using the Mean Opinion Score indicated a high level of user acceptance, with a User Acceptance Test score of 87.8%. This suggests that the system is feasible and effective in supporting the promotion and education of organic fertilizers. In conclusion, this information system can help farmers more easily understand and adopt organic farming practices, as well as simplify their access to purchasing organic fertilizers without the need to produce them independently.

SISTEM REKOMENDASI KEBUTUHAN NUTRISI MAKANAN PENDAMPING AIR SUSU IBU (MPASI) MENGGUNAKAN METODE FUZZY TAHANI SEBAGAI UPAYA PENCEGAHAN STUNTING

Stunting is a significant child health issue in Indonesia, where children experience impaired growth, resulting in weight and height below their age average. In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Indonesian Nutrition Status Survey (SSGI) reported a stunting prevalence of 21.6%, exceeding the WHO target of 20%. Stunting is caused by chronic malnutrition from pregnancy through the first thousand days of life, a crucial period for brain and cognitive development. Proper complementary feeding (MPASI) after 6 months is essential to meet infants' nutritional needs and prevent developmental delays in children under two. This study aims to develop a mobile web-based system that recommends MPASI according to infants' nutritional needs using the Fuzzy Tahani method. This method was chosen for its ability to handle uncertainty and provide personalized solutions. The developed system achieved 94.5% accuracy, with a precision of 33.1%, recall of 27.4%, and specificity of 85.9%. The system met the research objectives despite lower precision and recall due to imbalanced training data. User Acceptance Testing (UAT) results indicated that 77.73% of users strongly agreed with the system, while 1.86% disagreed. This system is expected to assist in preventing stunting by providing more accurate MPASI recommendations tailored to each infant's needs.

RideChain: A Blockchain-Based Decentralized Public Transportation Smart Wallet

The transportation industry has been recognized as one of the industries that can benefit from investment in blockchain-based systems and services that enable distributed data management and improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the transportation sector. However, the literature needs a guiding framework for integrating blockchain in issuing and preserving public transportation transactions in a technical environment that is secure, efficient, and transparent. This study proposes a blockchain-based transportation wallet (BTW) framework that facilitates the main digital transactions across diverse public transportation services. BTW embodies leveraging blockchain technology, which provides a decentralized and immutable ledger that records and verifies transactions, ensuring trust and reducing the risk of fraud. The framework has been validated by developing a blockchain-based public transportation smart wallet named “RideChain”. This serves as a single decentralized point for making public transportation transactions and payments, as well as identity authorizations and management. RideChain enhances passengers’ and service providers’ experience through a secure and authentic platform for offering several reliable public transportation transactions efficiently. In this study, we implemented a smart contract to establish a protocol between passengers and journey services. The testing methodologies used in this study comprise unit testing, integration testing, performance testing, and user acceptance testing. The findings suggest that BTW has been successfully verified to demonstrate its capability for secure transactions, authenticity of monetary transactions, automated smart contracts, decentralized identity authentication, and effortless payments.

The Development of a Digital Patient Navigation Tool to Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening Among Federally Qualified Health Center Patients: Acceptability and Usability Testing.

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are an essential place for historically underserved patients to access health care, including screening for colorectal cancer (CRC), one of the leading causes of cancer death in the United States. Novel interventions aimed at increasing CRC screening completion rates at FQHCs are crucial. This study conducts user testing of a digital patient navigation tool, called eNav, designed to support FQHC patients in preparing for, requesting, and completing CRC screening tests. We recruited English- and Spanish-speaking patients (N=20) at an FQHC in New York City to user-test the eNav website (2 user tests; n=10 participants per user test). In each user test, participants engaged in a "think aloud" exercise and a qualitative interview to summarize and review their feedback. They also completed a baseline questionnaire gathering data about demographics, technology and internet use, medical history, and health literacy, and completed surveys to assess the website's acceptability and usability. Based on participant feedback from the first user test, we modified the eNav website for a second round of testing. Then, feedback from the second user test was used to modify and finalize the eNav website. Survey results supported the overall usability and acceptability of the website. The average System Usability Scale score for our first user test was 75.25; for the second, it was 75.28. The average Acceptability E-scale score for our first user test was 28.3; for the second, it was 29.2. These scores meet suggested benchmarks for usability and acceptability. During qualitative think-aloud exercises, in both user tests, many participants favorably perceived the website as motivating, interesting, informative, and user-friendly. Respondents also gave suggestions on how to improve the website's content, usability, accessibility, and appeal. We found that some participants did not have the digital devices or internet access needed to interact with the eNav website at home. Based on participant feedback on the eNav website and reported limitations to digital access across both user tests, we made modifications to the content and design of the website. We also designed alternative methods of engagement with eNav to increase the tool's usability, accessibility, and impact for patients with diverse needs, including those with limited access to devices or the internet at home. Next, we will test the eNav intervention in a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of the eNav website for improving CRC screening uptake among patients treated at FQHCs.

Using dynamic ultrasound to assess Achilles tendon mechanics during running: The effect on running pattern and muscle–tendon junction tracking

Achilles tendon strain can be quantified using dynamic ultrasound, but its use in running is limited. Minimal effects on running pattern and acceptable test–retest reliability of muscle–tendon junction (MTJ) tracking are prerequisites for ultrasound use during running. We aimed to assess (i) the effect of wearing an ultrasound transducer on running pattern and (ii) the test–retest reliability of MTJ tracking during running. Sixteen long-distance runners (nine injury-free, seven with Achilles tendinopathy) ran at different speeds on an instrumented treadmill with a 10-camera system tracking skin-mounted retroreflective markers, first without and then with an ultrasound transducer attached to the lower leg to track the MTJ of the gastrocnemius medialis. Spatiotemporal parameters, joint kinematics and kinetics were compared between conditions using mixed ANOVAs and paired t-tests. MTJ tracking was performed manually twice by three raters in ten participants. Variability and standard error of measurement (SEM) quantified the inter- and intra-tester test–retest reliability. The running pattern was not affected by wearing the ultrasound transducer, except for significantly less knee flexion during midstance (1.6°) and midswing (2.9°) found when wearing the transducer. Inter-rater and intra-rater SEMs for MTJ tracking to assess the tendon strain (0.43%, and 0.56%, respectively) were about four times as low as between-group differences presented in literature. The minimal effects found on the running pattern and acceptable test–retest reliability indicates that dynamic ultrasound during running can be appropriately used to study Achilles tendon mechanics and thereby help improve our understanding of Achilles tendon behavior during running, injury development and recovery.

Development and Design Validation of an Inflow-Settling Chamber for Turbomachinery Test-Benches

At Leibniz University of Hannover, Germany, a new turbomachinery test facility has been built over the last few years. A major part of this facility is a new 6 MW compressor station, which is connected to a large piping system, both designed and built by AERZEN. This system provides air supply to several wind tunnel and turbomachinery test rigs, e.g., axial turbines and axial compressors. These test rigs are designed to conduct high-quality aerodynamic, aeroelastic, and aeroacoustic measurements to increase physical understanding of steady and unsteady effects in turbomachines. One primary purpose of these investigations is the validation of aerodynamic and aeroacoustic numerical methods. To provide precise boundary conditions for the validation process, extremely high homogeneity of the inflow to the investigated experimental setup is imminent. Thus, customized settling chambers have been developed using analytical and numerical design methods. The authors have chosen to follow basic aerodynamic design steps, using analytical assumptions for the inlet section, the “mixing” area of a settling chamber, and the outlet nozzle in combination with state-of-the-art numerical investigations. In early 2020, the first settling chamber was brought into operation for the acceptance tests. In order to collect high-resolution flow field data during the tests, Leibniz University and AERZEN have designed a unique measurement device for robust and fast in-line flow field measurements. For this measurement device, total pressure and total-temperature rake probes, as well as traversing multi-hole probes, have been used in combination to receive high-resolution flow field data at the outlet section of the settling chamber. The paper provides information about the design process of the settling chamber, the developed measurement device, and measurement data gained from the acceptance tests.