The application of parameter sensitivity analysis methods to inverse simulation models

Knowledge of the sensitivity of inverse solutions to variation of parameters of a model can be very useful in making engineering design decisions. This paper describes how parameter sensitivity analysis can be carried out for inverse simulations generated through approximate transfer function inversion methods and also by the use of feedback principles. Emphasis is placed on the use of sensitivity models and the paper includes examples and a case study involving a model of an underwater vehicle. It is shown that the use of sensitivity models can provide physical understanding of inverse simulation solutions that is not directly available using parameter sensitivity analysis methods that involve parameter perturbations and response differencing

The first record of the Chinese pond mussel Sinanodonta woodiana (Lea, 1834) in Montenegro

Sinanodonta woodiana (Lea, 1834), Chinese pond mussel (Bivalvia: Unionoida: Unionidae) is one of the most invasive aquatic macroinvertebrate species found in Europe. We report the Chinese pond mussel for the first time in Montenegro, in August 2012, in Lake Šasko (Adriatic part of the Central Mediterranean subarea). One specimen of the Chinese pond mussel was observed in a habitat with a predominantly silt-clay substrate. The main pathway of species introduction was evaluated to be via fish stocking

Sensitivity bond graphs

A sensitivity bond graph, of the same structure as the system bond graph, is shown to provide a simple and effective method of generating sensitivity functions of use in optimisation. The approach is illustrated in the context of partially known system parameter and state estimation

Probabilistic Consensus of the Blockchain Protocol

We introduce a temporal epistemic logic with probabilities as an extension of temporal epistemic logic. This extension enables us to reason about properties that characterize the uncertain nature of knowledge, like “agent a will with high probability know after time s same fact”. To define semantics for the logic we enrich temporal epistemic Kripke models with probability functions defined on sets of possible worlds. We use this framework to model and reason about probabilistic properties of the blockchain protocol, which is in essence probabilistic since ledgers are immutable with high probabilities. We prove the probabilistic convergence for reaching the consensus of the protocol

Micro-rods of oxidized pentacene obtained by thermal annealing in air of pentacene thin films

The influence of thermal annealing (in air and nitrogen at ambient pressure) on optical properties of pentacene films, well-known material widely used in organic electronic devices, was studied. Pentacene films, whose thickness varies an order of magnitude (30 – 300 nm) depending on the position on the substrate, were polycrystalline at all thicknesses. Raman and UV-vis absorption spectra depend on the position on film implies changes of the film structure with the thickness. These spectra are not largely affected by annealing if it is not performed in air at temperatures higher than 100°C. Prolonged annealing in air, at temperatures higher than 100°C, leads to formation of nano- and micro-scale rod-shaped structures on film surface. Based on scanning electron microscopy measurements, it is supposed that these structures are crystalline. Their UV-vis absorbance indicates that they are composed of more than one species of oxidized pentacene molecules, including 6,13-pentacenequinone. Further study is necessary to precisely determine composition and structure of micro-rods, as well as the mechanism of their formation.Serbian Ceramic Society Conference ADVANCED CERAMICS AND APPLICATION V New Frontiers in Multifunctional Material Science and Processing Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Knez Mihailova 35 Serbia, Belgrade, 21st-23rd September 201

The Effect of Cantharellus Cibarius Addition on Quality Characteristics of Frankfurter during Refrigerated Storage

The antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of Cantharellus cibarius decoction and the effect of mushroom addition on the physicochemical and microbiological properties of frankfurters during refrigerated storage were studied. Mushroom addition significantly reduced (p lt 0.05) the formation of total aerobic mesophilic bacteria during storage. Regarding the texture, there was no negative effect in frankfurters with the mushroom added, compared to the control group of sausages. Generally, C. cibarius can be used as a natural ingredient in order to prevent the growth of microorganisms in cooked pork sausages, causing an extension in shelf life during chilled storage

Analysis of 4,4′-bis(2,2′diphenyl vinyl)-1,1′- biphenyl using the atmospheric-pressure solids analysis probe for ionization

An Atmospheric pressure Solids Analysis Probe (ASAP) mass spectrometer are used for investigation the ionization mechanism and fragmentation pathways of 4,4′-bis(2,2′diphenyl vinyl)-1,1′-biphenyl (DPVBi). DPVBi is material used in OLEDs (organic light-emitting diode). Results obtained indicate that by controlling ion source conditions it is possible to optimize forming of desired precursor ion, primarily radical cation and in less content protonated ion of DPVBi. The results presented illustrate the usefulness of ASAP MS in the characterization of DPVBi compounds

Effects of the toluene and methanol extract of Senna (Cassia angustifolia Vahl) on viability and proliferation HeLa cells

Senna (Cassia angustifolia Vahl.) is used in food and pharmaceutical technologies as officinal drugs and natural laxative. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of toluene and methanol Senna extracts on the viability and proliferation of HeLa cells. The senna leaves were extracted in Soxhlet's extractor and obtained toluene and methanolic extracts were used for determination of effects on viability and proliferation. Cytotoxic effect of different concentrations (0.1%, 0.01%, 0.001% and 0.0001%) extracts was investigated in HeLa cells in vitro. MTT test showed significant cytotoxic activity for toluene extract, especially the concentration of 0.1%, while the tested concentrations metanolic extract did not show cytotoxic activity

Estimation and control of mechatronic systems using sensitivity bond graphs

A new bond graph framework for sensitivity theory is applied to model-based predictive control, state estimation, and parameter estimation in the context of physical systems. The approach is illustrated using a nonlinear mechatronic system

Qualitative properties of traditionally produced dry fermented sausages from meat of the autochthonous Mangalitsa pig breed

The interest in autochthonous meat products from local pig breeds managed in comprehensive, sustainable breeding programs is expanding in Europe. Dry fermented sausages in Serbia and other southern European countries are highly appreciated food specialties. It is, therefore, desirable that study attempts to improve the quality of food and the security of traditional, dry sausages will result in products that are of higher added value and have quality standards that best meet the needs of contemporary customers. Meat and meat products from traditional pig breeds usually have an excellent public and media reputation, and are often regarded as better than the meat and meat products of conventionally raised pigs and crossbreed pigs. Traditional, dry fermented sausages, with their characteristic chemical contents and sensory properties, can be produced with suitable proportions of meat and backfat from the indigenous Mangalitsa pig breed. These outcomes should hopefully encourage the sustainable breeding of endangered Mangalitsa pigs, as there are market opportunities for kulen and sremska sausages