Prediction Equations Research Articles

Site class based seismic magnitude prediction equations for earthquake early warning

Site class based seismic magnitude prediction equations for earthquake early warning

Vertical Ground Motion Prediction Equations for Interplate and Intermediate-Depth Intraslab Earthquakes at Mexico City’s Hill Zone

ABSTRACT We present ground motion prediction models for spectral pseudo acceleration (5% damping), peak ground velocity, and peak ground acceleration values from interplate and intermediate-depth intraslab earthquakes at the so-called hill zone of Mexico City for the vertical component and the vertical-to-horizontal ratio case. There are no previous models for the vertical component from these events in Mexico City. The prediction equations were developed as a function of magnitude and also as a function of distance to the fault surface of earthquakes by using 30 and 26 seismic recordings from interplate (1965–2022) and intermediate-depth intraslab (1964–2017) earthquakes at the hill zone of the city by using Bayesian regression analyses. The attenuation models are developed for interplate events for distances ranging from 280 km to over 500 km and Mw from 6 to 8.1, and for intraslab events for distances to the fault surface ranging from 100 km up to about 600 km, focal depths from 40 km to over 120 km and Mw from 5 to 8.2. Nevertheless, since at large distances ground motions are generally weak, we recommend the applicability of the proposed models to be restricted to up to 400 km. The models are adequate to estimating the seismic hazard at the hill zone of Mexico City, as proved by contrasting analytical versus empirical seismic exceedance rates for the vertical component.

Predicting solvation energies of free radicals and their mixtures: A robust approach coupling the Peng-Robinson and COSMO-RS models

Detailed kinetic models are valuable tools for a clear understanding of the dynamics of complex reacting systems based on radical-chain mechanisms, such as combustion and oxidation. Gas-phase automatic kinetic generators, such as EXGAS, RMG, MAMOX, NetGen, REACTION, and GENESYS can be used to establish a detailed network of reaction pathways and the rates associated with each reaction. The range of applications of these gas-phase kinetic generators can be extended to liquids through diffusional and solvation corrections directly applied to the gas-phase thermo-kinetic data. In this work, a flexible framework is proposed for the calculation of the solvation correction involving closed-shell (i.e., non-free radical) and open-shell (i.e., free radicals) molecules. This novel model relies on the Peng-Robinson cubic equation of state (EoS) combined with a quantum-based continuum solvation model (COSMO-RS) through an advanced mixing rule. Unlike most predictive equations of state, the proposed model requires only pure compound inputs: critical temperature (Tc,i), critical pressure (Pc,i), acentric factor (ωi), and the screening charge distribution (σ-profile). These inputs were obtained for C/H/O free radicals using group corrections applied to the known values of the associated closed-shell molecules (parent molecules). The resulting EoS is able to provide fast predictions of solvation quantities of closed-shell molecules and C/H/O free radicals with a mean unsigned error of around 0.30 kcal/mol. The great advantage of this method is that it allows high-throughput computation of solvation quantities in pure solvents and mixtures at any temperature (including the supercritical domain), which could enable the simulation of complex oxidation kinetics in a wide range of applications.

Opportunistic dried blood spot sampling validates and optimizes a pediatric population pharmacokinetic model of metronidazole.

Pharmacokinetic models rarely undergo external validation in vulnerable populations such as critically ill infants, thereby limiting the accuracy, efficacy, and safety of model-informed dosing in real-world settings. Here, we describe an opportunistic approach using dried blood spots (DBS) to evaluate a population pharmacokinetic model of metronidazole in critically ill preterm infants of gestational age (GA) ≤31 weeks from the Metronidazole Pharmacokinetics in Premature Infants (PTN_METRO, NCT01222585) study. First, we used linear correlation to compare 42 paired DBS and plasma metronidazole concentrations from 21 preterm infants [mean (SD): post natal age 28.0 (21.7) days, GA 26.3 (2.4) weeks]. Using the resulting predictive equation, we estimated plasma metronidazole concentrations (ePlasma) from 399 DBS collected from 122 preterm and term infants [mean (SD): post natal age 16.7 (15.8) days, GA 31.4 (5.1) weeks] from the Antibiotic Safety in Infants with Complicated Intra-Abdominal Infections (SCAMP, NCT01994993) trial. When evaluating the PTN_METRO model using ePlasma from the SCAMP trial, we found that the model generally predicted ePlasma well in preterm infants with GA ≤31 weeks. When including ePlasma from term and preterm infants with GA >31 weeks, the model was optimized using a sigmoidal Emax maturation function of postmenstrual age on clearance and estimated the exponent of weight on volume of distribution. The optimized model supports existing dosing guidelines and adds new data to support a 6-hour dosing interval for infants with postmenstrual age >40 weeks. Using an opportunistic DBS to externally validate and optimize a metronidazole population pharmacokinetic model was feasible and useful in this vulnerable population.

Estimating metabolic rate from International Organization for Standardization heart rate method and two walking equations.

Assigning a value for metabolic rate is central to heat stress assessment. ISO 8996 describes a predictive method for walking based on the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) method and another generalized method based on average heart rate. In addition, the US Army uses the load carriage decision aid (LCDA) predictive equation to estimate metabolic rate. The purpose of this study was to assess the accuracy/bias and precision of the ISO heart rate method and the ACSM and LCDA equations. The laboratory database included metabolic rate, heart rate, treadmill speed, and grade during a progressive heat stress protocol. Treadmill speed and grade were set to represent one of three metabolic rates. Accuracy and precision were assessed with Bland-Altman plots. All three methods had good accuracy (low bias). For precision, the ISO heart rate method had a root mean square error (RMSE) of 34 W and 11% when adjusted for repeated measures. The RMSE for two equations was 20 W and 7%. Although the heart method had less accuracy, its application is more generalizable. The heart rate method should be used below the occupational exposure limit to avoid a bias toward higher predicted values due to heat strain.

Reduction of Disk Friction Loss by Applying a Fin to the Back of a Centrifugal Impeller

Abstract It is well known that the ratio of disk friction loss of low specific speed pumps is large. When the specific speed is 100 min−1, m3/min, m or less, the disk friction loss increases remarkably. In this study, focusing on the clearance flow from the diffuser outlet to the impeller outlet (This is called the outward flow) behind the centrifugal pump, a fin was installed on outer diameter side of the rotating wall on the back side of a centrifugal pump as a countermeasure, and the influence of changes in velocity distribution near the wall on disk friction loss was investigated by torque measurements, velocity measurement, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis. As a result, it was clarified that disk friction loss is decreasing by installing the fin in both torque measurements and CFD results, because the clearance flow is separated by fin and circumferential velocity is increased in the wake region of the fin in both measurements and CFD. In addition, it was clarified that disk friction coefficient (normalized torque) can be expressed as a function of the inlet swirl ratio and Reynolds number. Also, prediction equation is derived for each shape (with and without fin). According to the equation, it was found that disk friction loss reduction effect by installing a fin becomes larger when Reynolds number and the inlet swirl ratio are small.

Analysis of impulsive ground motions from February 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake sequence

AbstractOn the 6th of February 2023, a large magnitude earthquake (Pazarcık earthquake), $$M_{w}=$$ M w = 7.7, occurred in southeast Türkiye, which caused significant destruction in Türkiye and Syria. Relatively large magnitude aftershocks followed the main shock, and after 9 hours of the main event, another large magnitude earthquake (Elbistan earthquake) occurred, $$M_{w}=$$ M w = 7.6, on a nearby fault. This study analyzes the near-fault seismic signals from earthquakes larger than 5.5 recorded between the main shock and the 31st of March 2023. More than 60 impulsive motions are detected in 3 earthquakes, mostly concentrated in the Pazarcık and Elbistan earthquakes. In the Pazarcık earthquake, many impulsive motions are recorded in near-fault stations with periods of up to 14 s. In contrast, in the Elbistan earthquake, impulsive motions are spatially distributed, with pulse periods of up to 11 s and at distances greater than 150 km. Pulse periods mostly correlate with the magnitude of the earthquake, but pulse probability models do not predict impulsive motions over long distances. The presence of strong impulsive motions in vertical components is also observed. For both earthquakes, peak ground velocities (PGVs) are larger than predicted by ground motion prediction equations. The observation of long-period, large amplitude signals may indicate the presence of a directivity effect for both earthquakes. In some stations, spectral periods exceed the 2018 Turkish building design codes for long periods ($$\ge$$ ≥ 1 s).

Development and cross-validation of a circumference-based predictive equation to estimate body fat in an active population.

The U.S. Army uses sex-specific circumference-based prediction equations to estimate percent body fat (%BF) to evaluate adherence to body composition standards. The equations are periodically evaluated to ensure that they continue to accurately assess %BF in a diverse population. The objective of this study was to develop and validate alternative field expedient equations that may improve upon the current Army Regulation (AR) body fat (%BF) equations. Body size and composition were evaluated in a representatively sampled cohort of 1904 active-duty Soldiers (1261 Males, 643 Females), using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (%BFDXA), and circumferences obtained with 3D imaging and manual measurements. Sex stratified linear prediction equations for %BF were constructed using internal cross validation with %BFDXA as the criterion measure. Prediction equations were evaluated for accuracy and precision using root mean squared error, bias, and intraclass correlations. Equations were externally validated in a convenient sample of 1073 Soldiers. Three new equations were developed using one to three circumference sites. The predictive values of waist, abdomen, hip circumference, weight and height were evaluated. Changing from a 3-site model to a 1-site model had minimal impact on measurements of model accuracy and performance. Male-specific equations demonstrated larger gains in accuracy, whereas female-specific equations resulted in minor improvements in accuracy compared to existing AR equations. Equations performed similarly in the second external validation cohort. The equations developed improved upon the current AR equation while demonstrating robust and consistent results within an external population. The 1-site waist circumference-based equation utilized the abdominal measurement, which aligns with associated obesity related health outcomes. This could be used to identify individuals at risk for negative health outcomes for earlier intervention.

Race Adjustment of Pulmonary Function Tests in the Diagnosis and Management of COPD: A Scoping Review.

Increasing evidence suggests that the inclusion of self-identified race in clinical decision algorithms may perpetuate longstanding inequities. Until recently, most pulmonary function tests utilized separate reference equations that are race/ethnicity based. We assess the magnitude and scope of the available literature on the negative impact of race-based pulmonary function prediction equations on relevant outcomes in African Americans with COPD. We performed a scoping review utilizing an English language search on PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science in September 2022 and updated it in December 2023. We searched for publications regarding the effect of race-specific vs race-neutral, race-free, or race-reversed lung function testing algorithms on the diagnosis of COPD and COPD-related physiologic and functional measures. Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines were utilized for this scoping review. Eligibility criteria: The search was restricted to adults with COPD. We excluded publications on other lung disorders, non-English language publications, or studies that did not include African Americans. The search identified publications. Ultimately, six peer-reviewed publications and four conference abstracts were selected for this review. Removal of race from lung function prediction equations often had opposite effects in African Americans and Whites, specifically regarding the severity of lung function impairment. Symptoms and objective findings were better aligned when race-specific reference values were not used. Race-neutral prediction algorithms uniformly resulted in reclassifying severity in the African Americans studied. The limited literature does not support the use of race-based lung function prediction equations. However, this assertion does not provide guidance for every specific clinical situation. For African Americans with COPD, the use of race-based prediction equations appears to fall short in enhancing diagnostic accuracy, classifying severity of impairment, or predicting subsequent clinical events. We do not have information comparing race-neutral vs race-based algorithms on prediction of progression of COPD. We conclude that the elimination of race-based reference values potentially reduces underestimation of disease severity in African Americans with COPD.

Performance evaluation of concrete made with plastic waste using multi-expression programming

The immense production of plastic waste due to its non-biodegradable nature has become a major issue for the world. Several researchers have recently tried to incorporate plastic waste in building materials, particularly as a substitute for cement in concrete, using conventional experimental testing. However, it is difficult to examine the optimal mix design in experimental investigations due to time and resource constraints. Therefore, this study aims to provide robust multi-expression programming (MEP) based predictive equations to evaluate the compressive strength (CS) and tensile strength (TS) of concrete containing plastic waste. Based on the literature, a comprehensive data record of 276 and 235 samples of the CS and TS of plastic concrete was generated for model development. The models' prediction capabilities were assessed by evaluating the various statistical indicators and comparing the results with a multi-linear regression (MLR) model. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to find out the contribution of each parameter to the CS and TS of plastic concrete. According to the statistical findings, the MEP model demonstrated higher efficacy in prediction, with an R2 value of 0.87 and 0.89 for the CS and TS models. In addition, MEP generates a simple mathematical formula, which can be employed as a design tool for estimating the CS and TS of plastic concrete. In sensitivity analysis, age demonstrated the highest sensitivity (24.8% and 31%), demonstrating its substantial impact on the model's outputs. Cement (17.63% and 17.3%) and plastic (17.4% and 15.3%) have similar contributions to the CS and TS. These results are consistent with previous research, highlighting the agreement between the results of this study and the literature. Therefore, this study can be employed for sustainable construction practices.

Prediction of Fourier Amplitude Spectrum of Ground Motion in Mexico City from Subduction Thrust Earthquakes

Mexico City, one of the largest cities in the world, experiences frequent, devastating interplate earthquakes that originate on the subduction thrust along the Pacific coast of Mexico more than 250 km away. A notorious example is the 19 September 1985 Michoacán earthquake (Mw 8.0) which killed ~ 10,000 persons and caused wide-spread destruction in the city. The main cause of seismic damage in Mexico City is its subsoil that amplifies the ground motion. In view of the seismic hazard faced by the city, a reliable estimation of ground motion during future earthquakes is of vital importance. We present a new ground motion prediction equation (GMPE) for the Fourier amplitude acceleration spectrum (FAS) from subduction thrust earthquakes along the Pacific coast of Mexico at the reference station, CU, located in the firm zone of Mexico City. The GMPE is derived via Bayesian regression analysis and is based on an enlarged set of recordings (1965-2020; 40 earthquakes; 250 ≤ R≤ 500 km; 5 ≤ Mw ≤ 8.0). An important feature of the new GMPE is that it includes a term to model different attenuation along different ray paths. The inclusion of this term leads to a reduction in the aleatory variability of the GMPE, particularly at high frequencies. Since spectral amplification of seismic waves with respect to CU is known at many sites in the city, the FAS at these sites can be computed if it is known at CU. The new GMPE has been incorporated in a fully Fourier-based probabilistic seismic hazard analysis of Mexico City.

Factors Influencing Social Media Platform Engagement among Thai Students: A Quantitative Study

This study delves into the complex landscape of social media utilization among undergraduate students in higher education institutions in Thailand, investigating the pivotal factors that shape their engagement with these platforms. Employing a quantitative research approach, the investigation utilizes a meticulously crafted multi-stage sampling methodology coupled with a robust data collection process. Through applying multi-correlation and multiple-regression analyses, the research unveils significant insights into the determinants of social media usage among Thai youth. Notably, motivation for social media use, access, creativity, and participation through these platforms emerge as substantive predictors. This aligns seamlessly with existing research, underscoring the critical roles played by motivation and accessibility in influencing online engagement. The resultant predictive equation is a pragmatic instrument for comprehending and forecasting social media engagement patterns among Thai undergraduate students. The findings underscore the importance of motivation, access, and creativity as driving forces behind social media utilization. This research equips educators, policymakers, and researchers with valuable insights, emphasizing the imperative of fostering responsible and effective use of social media within this demographic. The study's contribution to the academic landscape is noteworthy because it sheds light on unexplored facets such as cultural dynamics, peer networks, and individual traits, enriching our understanding of the intricate social media landscape among Thai undergraduate students. Doi: 10.28991/ESJ-2024-08-02-011 Full Text: PDF

The Main Factors Controlling Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Variability Due to Epistemic Uncertainty in Greece: Results from a One-Factor-at-a-Time Analysis

Abstract We present a one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) sensitivity study for the Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment (PSHA) in Greece. The analysis examines several PSHA controlling factors, such as seismic source model (geometry, etc.), active tectonics (faulting type, etc.), as well as the employed ground-motion prediction equations (GMPEs). We have considered only peak ground acceleration (PGA) and peak ground velocity (PGV) for a typical PSHA scenario (10% probability of exceedance in 50 yr). OFAT results are presented using Tornado diagrams for 42 major urban centers of Greece that cover the study area revealing regions of different PSHA uncertainty. In general, the most critical factors controlling PSHA uncertainties are the Gutenberg–Richter (G-R) parameters (a and b), as well as the employed GMPE. However, significant spatial variability of these factors is observed with large differences between high- and low-seismicity regions, as well as between PGA and PGV. The results not only provide an objective assessment of the variability of PSHA uncertainties but also verify the need for additional work to minimize epistemic PSHA uncertainties, focusing on the most critical factors that control PSHA.

Attenuation of blast-induced vibration on tunnel structures

The blast-induced vibration during excavation by drilling and blasting method has an important impact on the surrounding structures. In particular, with the development of tunnel engineering, the impact of blasting vibration on tunnel construction has attracted extensive attention. In this paper, the propagation attenuation characteristics of blast-induced vibration (PPV, peak particle velocity) on different tunnel structures were systematically studied based on the field monitoring data. Initially, the attenuation characteristics of blasting vibration PPV on lower bench surface, side wall of the excavated tunnel and the closely spaced adjacent tunnel were investigated. Subsequently, the capacity of several widely utilized empirical prediction equations to estimate the PPV on tunnel structures was examined, along with a comparative analysis of their prediction accuracies. The research findings indicate that it is feasible to predict the PPV on the tunnel structures by using empirical equations. The attenuation characteristics of blasting vibration PPV are different in different structures and directions. While the prediction accuracies of the empirical equations vary, the discrepancies are minimal. The principal variation among these equations lies in the site-specific coefficients k, β, λ, highlighting the differential impact of structural and directional considerations on the predictive efficacy. Based on the empirical equation and safe PPV provided by the blasting vibration safe standards on tunnels of China (GB6722-2014), and with considering the influence of all structures and directions, obtained the safe distance of blasting vibration in the tested tunnel project should be larger than 20.28∼18.31 m, 18.31∼161.16 m and 16.16∼13.75 m for blasting vibration frequency located in ≤ 10 Hz, 10-50 Hz and > 50 Hz.

Perapan Metode Double Exponential Smoothing pada Prediksi Nilai Tukar Petani di Provinsi Sumatra Barat Tahun 2023

West Sumatra is one of the provinces in Indonesia where the agricultural sector is very important for the regional economy. To encourage the development of the agricultural sector, an appropriate strategy is needed for each location. One of the efforts to encourage the development of the agricultural sector is to pay attention to the availability of agricultural facilities and infrastructure, so that there are no obstacles for producers that increase production costs and harm farmers. The purpose of this study was to determine the model and prediction results of Farmer Exchange Rate in West Sumatra using the Double Exponential Smoothing Method from January 2023 to June 2023. The prediction equation for NTP in West Sumatra Province in 2023 obtained is 〖 F〗_(t+m)=110,5049+(m)0,1773with a value of α = 0.99, β = 0.0115 and MAPE value = 0.99%. The Exchange Rate in West Sumatra from January 2023 to June 2023 tends to increase. The increasing Farmer Exchange Rate in West Sumatra can have a positive impact on the agricultural sector and improve the economic welfare of farmers.

Near-Infrared Spectroscopic Study of Biotite–Phlogopite (Mg# = 30~99): OH-Stretching Modes and Mg# Content Prediction Equation

Biotite–phlogopite minerals are a complete Mg–Fe isomorphism series of phyllosilicates. A Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and electron microprobe analysis (EMPA) were conducted on end-member phlogopite, Mg–biotite, and annite samples. In the mid-infrared region, absorption peaks were observed at 460, 1000, 3680, and 3710 cm⁻1 in the biotite group. Samples with higher Mg content exhibited stronger peaks assigned to OH vibrations and a weak absorption peak at 810 cm⁻1. In the near-infrared region, combination peaks were observed near 4200, 4300, and 4450 cm⁻1, with wavenumbers showing a linear inverse relationship with the Mg# [=100 × Mg/(Mg + FeT)] value. For annite, combination peaks occurred at 4173, 4292, and 4439 cm⁻1, decreasing by 10–15 cm⁻1 compared to end-member phlogopite. Judging the fundamental peaks of the combination band contributes to identifying suitable near-infrared characteristic peaks for quantitative research. The 4300 cm−1 absorption peak in biotite–phlogopite was assigned to OH-bending and -stretching vibrations, making it suitable for mineral identification and Mg# estimations across all biotite groups. The 4450 cm-1 characteristic peak, assigned to Al–O-stretching vibrations and OH-stretching vibrations, is suitable for accurately predicting Mg# values in high AlVI samples. The first overtones of biotite–phlogopite appeared at 7250 cm⁻1, with an average factor of 1.955 between the fundamental and corresponding overtones. This study aims to refine the patterns of OH-stretching vibrations and characteristic peak shifts in the near-infrared spectral region of phyllosilicate minerals, providing data references for planetary spectroscopy and ore deposit studies.

Tanaka-Johnston’s Mixed Dentition Analysis among Orthodontic Patients in Tanzania

Background: Lower incisors are the first teeth to erupt, their sizes are reliable and little changes occur on the lower arch during mixed dentition. These teeth can be used to predict the size of remaining unerupted teeth. Tanaka Johnston's analysis is the most widely used method of mixed dentition analysis worldwide. The aim of the study was to assess the accuracy of Tanaka-Johnston’s methods of mixed dentition analysis among orthodontic patients in Tanzania. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was carried out at MUHAS dental clinic involving models from orthodontic patients. Data collection involved actual teeth size measurement and prediction using Tanaka-Johnston’s method. Comparison between the actual measurements and the predicted measurements was assessed using students' paired t-tests. Prediction equations for the present study were generated using a simple linear regression analysis. Results: Tanaka Johnston's method significantly overestimated the combined width of upper canines and premolars in the female group (p=0.000). However, the method underestimated the lower jaw measurements in both sexes (p<0.05). New prediction equations for the present study were generated for each sex and arch separately. For the upper jaw, it was Y=11.97+ 0.56X for males and Y = 10.97+0.49X for females. While for the lower jaw, it was Y= 10.8 +0.51X for males and Y=11.39+0.47X for females. Conclusion: Tanaka-Johnston’s methods of mixed dentition analysis was found to be inaccurate in estimating the size of unerupted canines and premolars in the study sample. Therefore, new prediction formulas were generated.

Inorganic ion accumulation model in wastewater recycling systems: Printing and dyeing case

To solve the problem of inorganic ion accumulation in the recycling process of printing and dyeing wastewater, a mathematical model based on cycle-index and removal efficiency was proposed. The model's capacity to describe the ion accumulation was essentially confirmed through simulation and pilot tests. Results indicated that this model can better predict total dissolved solids (TDS), although the prediction results for specific ions require further refinement. With fewer than 60 cycles, TDS in the pilot system could be reliably predicted. Sensitivity analysis revealed that, when TDS, SO42−, Fe, and Mn in the effluent were considered control targets, the number of cycles, water flow, total inorganic salts added, and the recycling efficiency of printing and dyeing wastewater significantly influenced the prediction equation.

Assessment and Prediction of Energy Expenditure: One-Mile Walks and Runs Among African American

Among ethnicities, African Americans exhibit the highest prevalence of obesity. A more comprehensive grasp of energy expenditure while walking and running can be instrumental in managing and averting obesity. Regrettably, there is a scarcity of research dedicated to scrutinizing energy expenditure in African Americans during walking and running. Consequently, the primary objective of this study was to contrast energy expenditure disparities during a one-mile walk and run between African Americans of normal-weight and those classified as overweight. Additionally, the secondary aim was to formulate and validate a predictive equation for energy expenditure tailored specifically to African Americans. A total of 68 African American participants were involved in this study, comprising 21 individuals classified as normal-weight walkers, 27 as overweight walkers, and 20 as runners. Energy expenditure was assessed using indirect calorimetry. To compare energy expenditure across these groups, an Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was conducted, followed by a post hoc Scheffe test. Linear regression analysis was employed for predicting energy expenditure. Additionally, a dependent t-test and a Chow test were utilized for cross-validating the predictive equation. The findings revealed that runners exhibited significantly higher energy expenditure compared to normal-weight walkers. When energy expenditure was normalized to body weight, runners expended significantly more energy than both normal-weight and overweight walkers. However, when expressed relative to fat-free mass, normal-weight walkers expended less energy than runners and overweight walkers. A prediction equation tailored specifically for African Americans was formulated as follows: EE = 1.012 BW − 9.233 Gender (M = 1, F = 2) + 47.188. The results from cross-validation tests confirmed the validity of this equation. Consequently, we recommend the use of this energy expenditure prediction equation for calculating energy expenditure during one-mile walks or runs for African American adults, whether they fall within the normal-weight or overweight categories.

Experimental study on flow kinematics of breaking wave impinging and overtopping on a deck structure

The present study experimentally investigates the flow kinematics due to breaking waves impinging and overtopping on a simplified deck structure. Several breaking-wave impinging scenarios in relation to the model deck are conducted. The resulting flow velocities in the aerated regions are measured using bubble image velocimetry (BIV). A wave focusing method is employed to generate plunging breakers. Repeated measurements are performed to obtain mean flow and turbulence characteristics. Two distinguished flow behaviors are observed among all seven scenarios. For the cases of a fully developed plunging breaker interacting with the deck structure, the maximum horizontal velocities above and below the structure are both around 1.2C, with C being the phase speed of the breaking wave; for the cases of a non-fully-developed plunging breaker impingement, the flow velocity below the deck is surprisingly large, with a value of 1.8C below the deck against 1.2C above the deck. Furthermore, the use of a dam-break flow to model the overtopping horizontal velocities on the deck is performed with satisfactory agreements for all the impinging scenarios. Moreover, the temporal and spatial varying prediction equation proposed by Ryu et al. (2007b) is used to model overtopping flow velocities, showing the applicability of this simplified methodology.