Application of hybrid binomial Langevin-multiple mapping conditioning method to reacting jet flow

The hybrid binomial Langevin-MMC (Multiple Mapping Conditioning) method combines the advantages of the binomial Langevin and MMC models in a consistent manner to overcome difficulties in each. The binomial Langevin method provides joint velocity-scalar statistics, but the treatment of scalars is complex since specification of the bounds is not trivial. The MMC method is capable of dealing with the mixing of any number of scalars, but it can be difficult to specify coefficients involving averages of the scalars and the introduced reference space. The difficulties are overcome by using the velocity statistics from the binomial Langevin model to obtain the reference variable for MMC and, subsequently, the mixing of MMC scalars is performed in a manner that minimises the difference between the mixture fractions for each submodel. The current work expands past studies of NO conversion in a mixing layer to include a study of the Sandia D Flame in preparation for the application to more complex combustion phenomena. Results compare favourably with experimental data and other models

Hybrid binomial Langevin-multiple mapping conditioning modeling of a reacting mixing layer

A novel, stochastic, hybrid binomial Langevin-multiple mapping conditioning (MMC) model—that utilizes the strengths of each component—has been developed for inhomogeneous flows. The implementation has the advantage of naturally incorporating velocity-scalar interactions through the binomial Langevin model and using this joint probability density function (PDF) to define a reference variable for the MMC part of the model. The approach has the advantage that the difficulties encountered with the binomial Langevin model in modeling scalars with nonelementary bounds are removed. The formulation of the closure leads to locality in scalar space and permits the use of simple approaches (e.g., the modified Curl’s model) for transport in the reference space. The overall closure was evaluated through application to a chemically reacting mixing layer. The results show encouraging comparisons with experimental data for the first two moments of the PDF and plausible results for higher moments at a relatively modest computational cost

Mixture-fraction based hybrid binomial-langevin–MMC modelling applied to auto-ignition in vitiated flow

A new hybrid binomial Langevin–MMC (Multiple Mapping Conditioning) modelling approach is proposed. The mixture fraction derived from the binomial Langevin model is used to specify the reference variable for MMC. The modified Curl’s model is used to close the stochastic MMC mixing term. The new model is applied to a jet burner with a vitiated co-flow (the 'Cabra burner') with methane as the fuel. The first- and second-order statistics show good agreement with experimental data

A mixture-fraction-based hybrid binomial Langevin-multiple mapping conditioning model

Generalized Multiple Mapping Conditioning (MMC) allows for the use of any physical quantity to represent the required reference variable provided that it delivers the desired behavior. The binomial Langevin model (BLM) has been shown to predict higher statistical moments with good accuracy. However, joint-scalar modeling for many scalars becomes problematic because scalar bounds must be specified as conditional on other scalars to preserve elemental balances. The resulting volumes in state space become exceptionally complex for realistic problem sizes. In the current work, this central difficulty is avoided by using only velocity and mixture fraction statistics from the BLM with the latter used as the MMC reference variable. The principal advantage of this method is that the implementation of the binomial Langevin mixture fraction is relatively straightforward and provides a direct physical link to MMC. The MMC model is closed using an augmented modified Curl's model where the selection of particle pairs for (turbulent) mixing ensures proximity in reference space and a corresponding closeness in physical space. The method is evaluated for a lifted methane jet flame undergoing auto-ignition in a vitiated coflow. Most of the major features of the flow are well reproduced and found to generally outperform other modeling approaches, including Large Eddy Simulations using simplified treatments of turbulence--chemistry interactions such as unsteady flamelet/progress variable descriptions

Silicon optical nanocrystal memory

We describe the operation of a silicon optical nanocrystal memory device. The programmed logic state of the device is read optically by the detection of high or low photoluminescence intensity. The suppression of excitonic photoluminescence is attributed to the onset of fast nonradiative Auger recombination in the presence of an excess charge carrier. The device can be programmed and erased electrically via charge injection and optically via internal photoemission. Photoluminescence suppression of up to 80% is demonstrated with data retention times of up to several minutes at room temperature

Key principle of the efficient running, swimming, and flying

Empirical observations indicate striking similarities among locomotion in terrestrial animals, birds, and fish, but unifying physical grounds are lacking. When applied to efficient locomotion, the analytical mechanics principle of minimum action yields two patterns of mechanical similarity via two explicit spatiotemporal coherent states. In steady locomotory modes, the slow muscles determining maximal optimum speeds maintain universal intrinsic muscular pressure. Otherwise, maximal speeds are due to constant mass-dependent stiffness of fast muscles generating a uniform force field, exceeding gravitation. Being coherent in displacements, velocities and forces, the body appendages of animals are tuned to natural propagation frequency through the state-dependent elastic muscle moduli. Key words: variational principle of minimum action (04.20.Fy), locomotion (87.19.ru), biomechanics (87.85.G-).Comment: Submitted to the Europhysical Letter

MLVA polymorphism of Salmonella enterica subspecies isolated from humans, animals, and food in Cambodia

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p><it>Salmonella </it>(<it>S</it>.) <it>enterica </it>is the main cause of salmonellosis in humans and animals. The epidemiology of this infection involves large geographical distances, and strains related to an episode of salmonellosis therefore need to be reliably discriminated. Due to the limitations of serotyping, molecular genotyping methods have been developed, including multiple loci variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) analysis (MLVA). In our study, 11 variable number tandem-repeats markers were selected from the <it>S. enterica </it>Typhimurium LT2 genome to evaluate the genetic diversity of 206 <it>S. enterica </it>strains collected in Cambodia between 2001 and 2007.</p> <p>Findings</p> <p>Thirty one serovars were identified from three sources: humans, animals and food. The markers were able to discriminate all strains from 2 to 17 alleles. Using the genotype phylogeny repartition, MLVA distinguished 107 genotypes clustered into two main groups: <it>S. enterica </it>Typhi and other serovars. Four serovars (Derby, Schwarzengrund, Stanley, and Weltevreden) were dispersed in 2 to 5 phylogenic branches. Allelic variations within <it>S. enterica </it>serovars was represented using the minimum spanning tree. For several genotypes, we identified clonal complexes within the serovars. This finding supports the notion of endemo-epidemic diffusion within animals, food, or humans. Furthermore, a clonal transmission from one source to another was reported. Four markers (STTR3, STTR5, STTR8, and Sal20) presented a high diversity index (DI > 0.80).</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>In summary, MLVA can be used in the typing and genetic profiling of a large diversity of <it>S. enterica </it>serovars, as well as determining the epidemiological relationships of the strains with the geography of the area.</p

Major bleeding during negative pressure wound/V.A.C.® - therapy for postsurgical deep sternal wound infection - a critical appraisal

Negative-pressure wound therapy, commercially known as vacuum-assisted closure (V.A.C.®) therapy, has become one of the most popular (and efficacious) interim (prior to flap reconstruction) or definite methods of managing deep sternal wound infection. Complications such as profuse bleeding, which may occur during negative-pressure therapy but not necessarily due to it, are often attributed to a single factor and reported as such. However, despite the wealth of clinical experience internationally available, information regarding certain simple considerations is still lacking. Garnering information on all the factors that could possibly influence the outcome has become more difficult due to a (fortunate) decrease in the incidence of deep sternal wound infection. If more insight is to be gained from fewer clinical cases, then various potentially confounding factors should be fully disclosed before complications can be attributed to the technique itself or improvements to negative-pressure wound therapy for deep sternal wound infection can be accepted as evidence-based and the guidelines for its use adapted. The authors propose the adoption of a simple checklist in such cases