CMS4SI Structural Identification Approach for Interpreting Measurements

The ageing of existing structures and new innovative designs are increasing the necessity for a greater understanding of structural behaviour. A better understanding would improve effectiveness of activities such as assessing reserve capacity, evaluating load increases and replacement decision making. Identification methodologies are needed to indicate the right behaviour using indirect measurements and behaviour models. This paper proposes a methodology that is able to accommodate multiple explanations while overcoming limitations of other SI approaches. The algorithm is called Candidate Model Search for System Identification (CMS4SI). Metrology guidelines are extended for use in the field of system identification while systematically including uncertainties and their correlations. The CMS4SI approach provides the necessary robustness and simplicity to support decisions related to the identification and understanding of structural behaviour. The approach is evaluated by full scale-testing of the Langensand Bridge. A critical aspect for meaningful identification is the uncertainty associated with model simplifications. The adaptation of clustering techniques and the use of radar plots allow for a convenient visualisation of results involving several parameters. Finally, models that are identified can be used to perform predictions of unmeasured behaviour, thereby supporting infrastructure management

Predicting Usefulness of Measuring Structures during Load Tests

This paper presents an approach for model identifiability that builds upon recent research into measurement data interpretation. The objective of this approach is to determine probabilistically to what degree the number of models able to explain a measured behaviour can be reduced in comparison to the initial solution space. The procedure is intended to be used prior to obtaining measurements from full-scale testing. The new methodology evaluates the probability of occurrence of two performance indices; the expected number of candidate models and the expected parameter range. It allows users, prior to taking measurements, to determine whether or not performing tests is likely to be useful. Since it does not require any intervention on the structure, this method may be used for a fraction of the cost required for full-scale testing. These features are illustrated through a case study, the Langensand Bridge (Switzerland). The methodology is the basis for a new generation of sensor placement techniques that determine to what extent particular sensor and load configurations are useful

Estimation of modelling errors in structural system identification

This paper presents a method for measurement-system design through criteria related to model based structural identification. Using a multi-model approach and results from previous research carried out at EPFL, an improved algorithm is proposed. The algorithm accounts for various types of sensors having different accuracies and taking different kinds of measurements. The algorithm selects sensor types and locations that minimise the number of non-identified candidate models. The results show that the approach provides an alternative to selecting and placing sensors using engineering experience alone, and that a scientific approach based on sensor characteristics and modelling error is feasible. A single span composite bridge is used to illustrate the algorithm. It is shown that adding more than 9 sensors, from a possible set of 34, will not provide further useful information for structural identification

Nutrition Strategies for Triathlon

Contemporary sports nutrition guidelines recommend that each athlete develop a personalised, periodised and practical approach to eating that allows him or her to train hard, recover and adapt optimally, stay free of illness and injury and compete at their best at peak races. Competitive triathletes undertake a heavy training programme to prepare for three different sports while undertaking races varying in duration from 20 min to 10 h. The everyday diet should be adequate in energy availability, provide CHO in varying amounts and timing around workouts according to the benefits of training with low or high CHO availability and spread high-quality protein over the day to maximise the adaptive response to each session. Race nutrition requires a targeted and well-practised plan that maintains fuel and hydration goals over the duration of the specific event, according to the opportunities provided by the race and other challenges, such as a hot environment. Supplements and sports foods can make a small contribution to a sports nutrition plan, when medical supplements are used under supervision to prevent/treat nutrient deficiencies (e.g. iron or vitamin D) or when sports foods provide a convenient source of nutrients when it is impractical to eat whole foods. Finally, a few evidence-based performance supplements may contribute to optimal race performance when used according to best practice protocols to suit the triathlete’s goals and individual responsiveness

Modelling the exposure of wildlife to radiation: key findings and activities of IAEA working groups

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) established the Biota Working Group (BWG) as part of its Environmental Modelling for Radiation Safety (EMRAS) programme in 2004 (http://www-ns.iaea.org/projects/emras/emras-biota-wg.htm). At that time both the IAEA and the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) were addressing environmental protection (i.e. protection of non-human biota or wildlife) within the on-going revisions to the Basic Safety Standards and Recommendations respectively. Furthermore, some countries (e.g. the USA, UK) were already conducting assessments in accordance with national guidelines. Consequently, a number of assessment frameworks/models had been or were being developed. The BWG was established recognising these developments and the need to improve Member State’s capabilities with respect to protection of the environment from ionizing radiation. The work of the BWG was continued within the IAEA’s EMRAS II programme by the Biota Modelling Group (http://wwwns. iaea.org/projects/emras/emras2/working-groups/working-group-four.asp)

Structural basis for the recognition and cleavage of histone H3 by cathepsin L

Proteolysis of eukaryotic histone tails has emerged as an important factor in the modulation of cell-cycle progression and cellular differentiation. The recruitment of lysosomal cathepsin L to the nucleus where it mediates proteolysis of the mouse histone H3 tail has been described recently. Here, we report the three-dimensional crystal structures of a mature, inactive mutant of human cathepsin L alone and in complex with a peptide derived from histone H3. Canonical substrate–cathepsin L interactions are observed in the complex between the protease and the histone H3 peptide. Systematic analysis of the impact of posttranslational modifications at histone H3 on substrate selectivity suggests cathepsin L to be highly accommodating of all modified peptides. This is the first report of cathepsin L–histone H3 interaction and the first structural description of cathepsin L in complex with a substrate

Paediatricians play a key role in preventing early harmful events that could permanently influence the development of the gut microbiota in childhood

Aim The development of the gut microbiota occurs primarily during infancy, and growing evidence has emphasised its positive role and implications for human health. The aim of this review was to provide essential knowledge about the gut microbiota and to describe and highlight the importance of the factors that influence the gut microbiota in early life and their potential harmful effects later in life. Methods The European Paediatric Association, the Union of the National European Paediatric Societies and Associations, convened a panel of independent European experts to summarise the research on microbiota for general paediatricians. They used PubMed and the Cochrane Library to identify studies published in English up to June 2018. Results A number of clinical conditions can disrupt the development of a stable gut microbiota. Changes in the microbiome have been documented in many chronic diseases, mainly immune-mediated gastrointestinal and liver diseases, and distinct patterns have been associated with each specific disease. The gut microbiota can be positively modulated with probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, paraprobiotics and postbiotics. Conclusion Paediatricians can play a key role in preventing harmful events that could permanently influence the composition and/or function of the gut microbiota. Various treatment strategies can be used