Auxiliary Technique Research Articles

Chlorophyll index for real-time prediction of nutritional status of 'Prata' banana

ABSTRACT This study aimed to select regression equations based on the correlation between chlorophyll index and leaf nutrient contents, for real-time prediction of the nutritional status of 'Prata' banana. Six cultivars of 'Prata' banana were used as treatments, with five replicates and four plants per plot, arranged in a completely randomized design. Nutrient levels were evaluated based on laboratorial analysis and chlorophyll indices using a portable chlorophyll meter, in the third leaf from the apex to the base. Data were subjected to analysis of variance, calculating the correlations between leaf nutrient contents and chlorophyll indices, and the regression equations were adjusted to the associations that were significant and with greater magnitude. The selected models estimate leaf nutrient contents and allow a real-time, low-cost reliable prediction of the nutritional status of 'Prata' banana. It is an auxiliary technique that, combined with leaf and soil analysis, contributes to a more precise and secure nutritional evaluation.

Auxiliary principle and iterative algorithm for a system of generalized set-valued strongly nonlinear mixed implicit quasi-variational-like inequalities

In this paper, the auxiliary principle technique is extended to study a system of generalized set-valued strongly nonlinear mixed implicit quasi-variational-like inequalities problem in Hilbert spaces. First, we establish the existence of solutions of the corresponding system of auxiliary variational inequalities problem. Then, using the existence result, we construct a new iterative algorithm. Finally, both the existence of solutions of the original problem and the convergence of iterative sequences generated by the algorithm are proved. We give an affirmative answer to the open problem raised by Noor et al. (Korean J. Comput. Appl. Math. 1:73-89, 1998; J. Comput. Appl. Math. 47:285-312, 1993). Our results improve and extend some known results.

Investigation of spontaneous non-linear peptidization dynamics and mechanism with selected α-amino acid pairs

The goal of this study was to provide experimental evidence on the dynamics and mechanism of spontaneous oscillatory peptidization in an abiotic system with three α-amino acid pairs (L-Met-L-Ser, L-His-L-Thr, and L-Cys-L-Phg), and to discuss these data in the context of an earlier established theoretical model. For each individual α-amino acid in a monocomponent and binary system, the dynamics of peptidization was traced with aid of the high performance liquid chromatograph with the evaporative light scattering detector. As an auxiliary technique, mass spectrometry (MS) was employed to scrutinize structures of the resulting peptides. With L-Met-L-Ser and L-His-L-Thr, the dynamics of one amino acid (L-Met and L-Thr, respectively) dominated over that of its counterpart. With L-Cys-L-Phg, no such predominance of the dynamics of one α-amino acid over that of its counterpart was observed. Mass spectrometric results confirmed the formation of heteropeptides with each investigated α-amino acid pair. With L-Met-L-Ser, L-His-L-Thr, and L-Cys-L-Phg, synchronization of the oscillatory behavior in the binary systems was observed, witnessing to mutual cross-catalysis of the two counterparts, assumed by case 4 of the theoretical model.

Electromagnetic metamaterial simulations using a GPU-accelerated FDTD method

Metamaterials composed of artificial subwavelength structures exhibit extraordinary properties that cannot be found in nature. Designing artificial structures having exceptional properties plays a pivotal role in current metamaterial research. We present a new numerical simulation scheme for metamaterial research. The scheme is based on a graphic processing unit (GPU)-accelerated finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method. The FDTD computation can be significantly accelerated when GPUs are used instead of only central processing units (CPUs). We explain how the fast FDTD simulation of large-scale metamaterials can be achieved through communication optimization in a heterogeneous CPU/GPU-based computer cluster. Our method also includes various advanced FDTD techniques: the non-uniform grid technique, the total-field/scattered-field (TFSF) technique, the auxiliary field technique for dispersive materials, the running discrete Fourier transform, and the complex structure setting. We demonstrate the power of our new FDTD simulation scheme by simulating the negative refraction of light in a coaxial waveguide metamaterial.

Optimal Scheduling of a Battery Energy Storage System with Electric Vehicles’ Auxiliary for a Distribution Network with Renewable Energy Integration

With global conventional energy depletion, as well as environmental pollution, utilizing renewable energy for power supply is the only way for human beings to survive. Currently, distributed generation incorporated into a distribution network has become the new trend, with the advantages of controllability, flexibility and tremendous potential. However, the fluctuation of distributed energy resources (DERs) is still the main concern for accurate deployment. Thus, a battery energy storage system (BESS) has to be involved to mitigate the bad effects of DERs’ integration. In this paper, optimal scheduling strategies for BESS operation have been proposed, to assist with consuming the renewable energy, reduce the active power loss, alleviate the voltage fluctuation and minimize the electricity cost. Besides, the electric vehicles (EVs) considered as the auxiliary technique are also introduced to attenuate the DERs’ influence. Moreover, both day-ahead and real-time operation scheduling strategies were presented under the consideration with the constraints of BESS and the EVs’ operation, and the optimization was tackled by a fuzzy mathematical method and an improved particle swarm optimization (IPSO) algorithm. Furthermore, the test system for the proposed strategies is a real distribution network with renewable energy integration. After simulation, the proposed scheduling strategies have been verified to be extremely effective for the enhancement of the distribution network characteristics.

Routine characterization and interpretation of complex alkali feldspar intergrowths

Almost all alkali feldspar crystals contain a rich inventory of exsolution, twin, and domain microtextures that form subsequent to crystal growth and provide a record of the thermal history of the crystal and often of its involvement in replacement reactions, sometimes multiple. Microtextures strongly influence the subsequent behavior of feldspars at low temperatures during diagenesis and weathering. They are central to the retention or exchange of trace elements and of radiogenic and stable isotopes. This review is aimed at petrologists and geochemists who wish to use alkali feldspar microtextures to solve geological problems or who need to understand how microtextures influence a particular process. We suggest a systematic approach that employs methods available in most well founded laboratories. The crystallographic relationships of complex feldspar intergrowths were established by the 1970s, mainly using single-crystal X-ray diffraction, but such methods give limited information on the spatial relationships of the different elements of the microtexture, or of the mode and chronology of their formation, which require the use of microscopy. We suggest a combination of techniques with a range of spatial resolution and strongly recommend the use of orientated sections. Sections cut parallel to the perfect (001) and (010) cleavages are the easiest to locate and most informative. Techniques described are light microscopy; scanning electron microscopy using both backscattered and secondary electrons, including the use of surfaces etched in the laboratory; electron-probe microanalysis and analysis by energy-dispersive spectrometry in a scanning electron microscope; transmission electron microscopy. We discuss the use of cathodoluminescence as an auxiliary technique, but do not recommend electron-backscattered diffraction for feldspar work. We review recent publications that provide examples of the need for great care and attention to pre-existing work in microtextural studies, and suggest several topics for future work.

Performance of Induction Heating Power Supply Using Dual Control Mode Pulse-width Modulation–Pulse-density Modulation High-frequency Inverter

This article presents a novel induction heating power supply. The power supply is based on an auxiliary active edge resonant zero-current soft-switching technique. It consists of single-ended push–pull series load resonant inverter. The proposed inverter is cost effective for high-frequency induction heating consumer appliances. The new multi-resonant high-frequency inverter with series load resonance and edge resonance can regulate its high-frequency output power under the constant-frequency zero-current soft-switching commutation principle on the basis of an asymmetrical pulse-width modulation control scheme. The brand-new consumer induction heating product is evaluated and discussed on the basis of simulation and experimental results. To extend zero-current soft-switching operation ranges under a low-power setting as well as improve efficiency, the high-frequency pulse-density modulation strategy is demonstrated for a high-frequency soft-switching inverter. Its practical effectiveness of induction heating power supply is substantially proved from an induction heating application point of view.

Photochemical Studies on Bicyclo[2.1.1]hexyl Derivatives: Chemical Behavior and Asymmetric Induction

AbstractThe photochemical behavior of bicyclo[2.1.1]hexyl derivatives was investigated by irradiation with a 450 W medium‐pressure mercury lamp in acetonitrile solution. The irradiation of methyl bicyclo[2.1.1]hexane‐5‐carbonylbenzoate (1a) led to both Norrish type II cyclization and cleavage products with a molar ratio of 1:2.2, whereas the irradiation of methyl 5‐methylbicyclo[2.1.1]hexane‐5‐carbonylbenzoate (1b) afforded the only Norrish/Yang photocyclization compound as the sole product. Such results were illustrated by several geometric parameters for Norrish/Yang photoreaction as ϕ1, ϕ4 and β obtained from the crystal structures. Furthermore, asymmetric photochemical studies using ionic chiral auxiliary technique were also conducted in the solid state.

Studying the enhancement of programmed cell death by combined AG1024 and paclitaxel in a model of chronic myelogenous leukemia

AimsChronic myelogenous leukemia is a clonal malignancy of the pluripotent hematopoietic stem cells that is characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation and expansion of myeloid progenitors. Myeloid progenitors express the fusion oncogene BCR–ABL, which has uncontrollable activity in malignant cells and prevents the cell apoptosis caused by some antineoplastic agents, such as paclitaxel. Targeting these abnormalities by blocking the tyrosine kinase enzymes of BCR–ABL is a promising approach for chronic myelogenous leukemia therapy. Main methodsConventional Liu's staining is an auxiliary technique used in microscopy to enhance the contrast in microscopic images, aiding the observation of cell morphology. The MTT assay, flow cytometry of the sub-G1 analysis and the TUNEL assay were applied to estimate the apoptosis levels. RT-PCR and western blot methods were used to evaluate the key molecules conferring anti-cell-death properties. Key findingsThe effects of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor AG1024 were evaluated with regard to the regulation of BCR–ABL expression, inhibition of cell proliferation, and enhanced paclitaxel-induced apoptosis in BCR–ABL-expressing K562 cell lines. AG1024 downregulated the expression of BCR–ABL and anti-apoptosis factors, such as Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL, which were present in K562 cells. Moreover, the combination of AG1024 with paclitaxel inhibited cell proliferation and enhanced paclitaxel-induced apoptosis within 24h. SignificanceIn summary, the present study shows that the combination of AG1024 with paclitaxel inhibited model cancer cell proliferation, suggesting a new use of paclitaxel-based chemotherapy for cancer control.

Demonstration of protocol for computer-aided forensic facial reconstruction with free software and photogrammetry

Purpose: Forensic facial reconstruction (FFR) is an auxiliary technique that approximates a face in order to generate identifications. Technological development allows access to open software that can be applied to FFR. The demonstrated protocol has features from creating 3D replicas of the skull to finishing and displaying the reconstruction. PPT GUI is used for 3D scanning, and the resulting point cloud is converted into a 3D mesh in MeshLab. The sculpture is made in Blender, according to the user’s preferred technique. The adaptation of the skin layer and finishing of the reconstruction is optimized with the use of templates. In this phase, details can also be hand-carved. Allied to basic training in the software featured in this protocol, the open access to these tools and its independence of imaging hardware other than digital cameras is an advantage to its application in forensic and research contexts.

Improved Maximum Likelihood detection through sphere decoding combined with box optimization

Sphere Decoding is a popular Maximum Likelihood algorithm that can be used to detect signals coming from multiple-input, multiple-output digital communication systems. It is well known that the complexity required to detect each signal with the Sphere Decoding algorithm may become unacceptable, especially for low signal-to-noise ratios. In this paper, we describe an auxiliary technique that drastically decreases the computation required to decode a signal. This technique was proposed by Stojnic, Hassibi and Vikalo in 2008, and is based on using continuous box-bounded minimization in combination with Sphere Decoding. Their implementation is, however, not competitive due to the box minimization algorithm selected. In this paper we prove that by judiciously selecting the box minimization algorithm and tailoring it to the Sphere Decoding environment, the computational complexity of the resulting algorithm for low signal-to-noise ratios is better (by orders of magnitude) than standard Sphere Decoding implementations.

New transillumination auxiliary technique for peroral endoscopic myotomy

New transillumination auxiliary technique for peroral endoscopic myotomy

Eponyms in the dermatology literature linked to Stains used in Skin biopsies

Staining is an auxiliary technique used in microscopy to enhance contrast in the microscopic image. Stains and dyes are frequently used in biology and medicine to highlight structures in biological tissues for viewing, often with the aid of different microscopes [1]. Hematoxylin and eosin stain (HE collagen fibres, reticular fibres will be yellow; ground substance, mucin will be blue; Fibrin will be bright red Muscle will be red. Also, Weigert’s elastic stain which will show elastic fibers, blue coloured while cell nuclei gets red or blue. It is named for, Karl Weigert, or Carl Weigert (1845-1904), (Fig. 1), who was a German pathologist. There are several eponyms linked to the stains used in dermatopathology practice. In Table I [4-19], we listed some examples. EPONYMS IN THE DERMATOLOGY LITERATURE LINKED TO STAINS USED IN SKIN BIOPSIES

Comparison of conventional serology and PCR methods for the routine diagnosis of Trypanosoma cruzi infection

Trypanosoma cruzi, a flagellated protozoan, is the etiologic agent of Chagas disease, and it is estimated that approximately 5 million people in Brazil are infected with this parasite. This work aimed to compare the current diagnostic methods for Chagas disease, including conventional serological (IFAT and ELISA) and molecular techniques (PCR), to introduce PCR as an auxiliary technique. A total of 106 chagasic patients were evaluated: 88 from endemic areas of Parana, 6 from São Paulo, 3 from Minas Gerais, 3 from Rio Grande do Sul, 1 from Bahia and 5 from the Santa Catarina T. cruzi outbreak. The samples were analyzed by conventional serological methods (IFAT, ELISA), hemoculture and PCR to confirm Chagas disease. When IFAT was used to determine antibody levels, the sensitivity was 81.7% for patients with the cardiac form of the disease and 100% for the other clinical forms. In contrast, ELISA showed 84% sensitivity and 100% specificity. The use of serological and molecular techniques and their implications for the diagnosis of Chagas disease in non-endemics area are discussed. PCR constitutes an excellent support methodology for the laboratory diagnosis of Chagas disease due to its high sensitivity and specificity.

Efficient particle filtering through residual nudging

AbstractWe introduce an auxiliary technique, called residual nudging, to the particle filter to enhance its performance in cases where it performs poorly. The main idea of residual nudging is to monitor and, if necessary, adjust the residual norm of a state estimate in the observation space so that it does not exceed a pre‐specified threshold. We suggest a rule to choose the pre‐specified threshold, and construct a state estimate accordingly to achieve this objective. Numerical experiments suggest that introducing residual nudging to a particle filter may (substantially) improve its performance, in terms of filter accuracy and/or stability against divergence, especially when the particle filter is implemented with a relatively small number of particles.

An FEM-Based Auxiliary Slot Design for an 8-Pole/12-Slot SPM Servo Motor Considering Saturation of Stator Tooth Coronas

This paper studies the auxiliary slot design technique for cogging torque minimization basing on an 8-pole/12-slot SPM servo motor. When the stator tooth coronas are unsaturated, the notching guidance given by analytical method can be testified effective in cutting down the cogging torque by FEM. But when the stator tooth coronas are saturated, the notching guidance is not effective any more. This phenomenon indicates that the saturation of stator tooth coronas has a significant impact on cogging torque. Thus, in auxiliary slot design, saturation effect should be considered; otherwise, counterproductive effects would occur.

Auxiliary Ventilation Control Technique in Heading Laneway

Auxiliary Ventilation Control Technique in Heading Laneway

Ensemble Kalman filtering with residual nudging

ABSTRACTCovariance inflation and localisation are two important techniques that are used to improve the performance of the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) by (in effect) adjusting the sample covariances of the estimates in the state space. In this work, an additional auxiliary technique, called residual nudging, is proposed to monitor and, if necessary, adjust the residual norms of state estimates in the observation space. In an EnKF with residual nudging, if the residual norm of an analysis is larger than a pre-specified value, then the analysis is replaced by a new one whose residual norm is no larger than a pre-specified value. Otherwise, the analysis is considered as a reasonable estimate and no change is made. A rule for choosing the pre-specified value is suggested. Based on this rule, the corresponding new state estimates are explicitly derived in case of linear observations. Numerical experiments in the 40-dimensional Lorenz 96 model show that introducing residual nudging to an EnKF may improve its accuracy and/or enhance its stability against filter divergence, especially in the small ensemble scenario.

General equilibrium bifunction variational inequalities

In this paper, we introduce and consider a new class of equilibrium variational inequalities, called the mixed general equilibrium bifunction variational inequalities. We suggest and analyze some proximal methods for solving mixed general equilibrium bifunction variational inequalities using the auxiliary principle technique. Convergence of these methods is considered under some mild suitable conditions. Several cases are also discussed. Results in this paper include some new and known results as special cases.

Auxiliary Principle and Algorithm of Solutions for a New System of Generalized Mixed Equilibrium Problems in Banach Spaces

In this paper, we study a new system of generalized mixed equilibrium problems involving nonmonotone set-valued mappings and nondifferential bifunctions in Banach spaces. First, a system of auxiliary generalized mixed equilibrium problems are introduced. By using a minimax inequality, the existence and uniqueness of solutions of the system of auxiliary generalized mixed equilibrium problems is proved. Next, by using the auxiliary principle technique, an iterative algorithm for solving the system of generalized mixed equilibrium problems is constructed. Finally, the existence of solutions and the convergence of iterative sequences generated by the algorithm are proved under suitable conditions. These results improve, unify, and generalize many corresponding known results given in literature.