In order to improve lesion localisation in small-bowel capsule endoscopy,a modified capsule design has been proposed incorporating localisation and-in theorystabilization capabilities.The proposed design consists of a...In order to improve lesion localisation in small-bowel capsule endoscopy,a modified capsule design has been proposed incorporating localisation and-in theorystabilization capabilities.The proposed design consists of a capsule fitted with protruding wheels attached to a spring-mechanism.This would act as a miniature odometer,leading to more accurate lesion localization information in relation to the onset of the investigation(spring expansion e.g.,pyloric opening).Furthermore,this capsule could allow stabilization of the recorded video as any erratic,non-forward movement through the gut is minimised.Three-dimensional(3-D)printing technology was used to build a capsule prototype.Thereafter,miniature wheels were also 3-D printed and mounted on a spring which was attached to conventional capsule endoscopes for the purpose of this proof-of-concept experiment.In vitro and ex vivo experiments with porcine small-bowel are presented herein.Further experiments have been scheduled.展开更多
AIM: To determine the role of scintigraphy in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding of unknown Iocalisation. METHODS: We performed retrospective analyses on 92 patients receiving scintigraphies from 1993 to...AIM: To determine the role of scintigraphy in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding of unknown Iocalisation. METHODS: We performed retrospective analyses on 92 patients receiving scintigraphies from 1993 to 2000 in the University of Regensburg hospital, which were done for Iocalisation of GI bleeding as a diagnostic step after an unsuccessful endoscopy. In addition to the scintigraphies, further diagnostic steps such as endoscopy, angiography or operations were performed. In some of the scintigraphies with negative results, a provocation test for bleeding with heparinisation was carried out. RESULTS: 73% of all scintigraphies showed a positive result. In 4.5% of the positive results, the source was located in the stomach, in 37% the source was the small bowel, in 25% the source was the right colon, in 4.5% the source was the left colon, and in 20% no clear Iocalisation was possible. Only 4% of all scintigraphies were false positive. A reliable positive scintigraphy was independent of the age of the examined patient. A provocation test for bleeding with heparin resulted in an additional 46% of positive scintigraphies with a reliable Iocalisation in primary negative scintigraphies. CONCLUSION- Our results show that scintigraphy and scintigraphy with heparin provocation tests are reliable procedures. They enable a reliable Iocalisation in about half of the obscure GI-bleeding cases. Scintigraphy is superior to angiography in locating a bleeding. It is shown that even in the age of video capsule endoscopy and double-balloon enteroscopy, scintigraphy provides a reliable and directed localization of GI bleeding and offers carefully targeted guidance for other procedures.展开更多
A novel radar-based system for longwall coal mine machine localisation is described. The system, based on a radar-ranging sensor and designed to localise mining equipment with respect to the mine tunnel gate road infr...A novel radar-based system for longwall coal mine machine localisation is described. The system, based on a radar-ranging sensor and designed to localise mining equipment with respect to the mine tunnel gate road infrastructure, is developed and trialled in an underground coal mine. The challenges of reliable sensing in the mine environment are considered, and the use of a radar sensor for localisation is justified. The difficulties of achieving reliable positioning using only the radar sensor are examined. Several probabilistic data processing techniques are explored in order to estimate two key localisation parameters from a single radar signal, namely along-track position and across-track position, with respect to the gate road structures. For the case of across-track position, a conventional Kalman filter approach is sufficient to achieve a reliable estimate. However for along-track position estimation, specific infrastructure elements on the gate road rib-wall must be identified by a tracking algorithm. Due to complexities associated with this data processing problem, a novel visual analytics approach was explored in a 3D interactive display to facilitate identification of significant features for use in a classifier algorithm. Based on the classifier output, identified elements are used as location waypoints to provide a robust and accurate mining equipment localisation estimate.展开更多
To understand the deformational behaviours of geosynthetics-reinforced soil retaining walls(GRS RWs),a series of plane-strain shaking table tests was conducted on retaining wall models.The backfill of the models was m...To understand the deformational behaviours of geosynthetics-reinforced soil retaining walls(GRS RWs),a series of plane-strain shaking table tests was conducted on retaining wall models.The backfill of the models was made of poorly graded gravel.Deformations and strains in the gravelly backfill induced by seismic loading are recorded in real time,which are of importance to understand the seismic strength and stability of the GRS RW systems,as strain localisation development in the backfill and foundation is related to the degree of strength degradation of the system.In the present study,we aimed at quantifying the induced deformations of the GRS RW models due to shaking.Digital image correlation(DIC)technique was then employed to analyse and provide full-field deformation and motion images with the models.It is demonstrated that,unlike conventional contact devices that are yet limited to provide quantities of a singular and fixed location,DIC provides deformation and motion of the area of interests to reveal the evolution of localisation.展开更多
We study via numerical experiments the localisation property of an acoustic wave in a viscoelastic soft medium containing randomly-distributed air bubbles. The behaviours of the oscillation phases of bubbles are parti...We study via numerical experiments the localisation property of an acoustic wave in a viscoelastic soft medium containing randomly-distributed air bubbles. The behaviours of the oscillation phases of bubbles are particularly investigated in various cases for distinguishing efficiently the acoustic localisation from the effects of acoustic absorption caused by the viscosity of medium. The numerical results reveal the phenomenon of 'phase transition' characterized by an unusual collective oscillation of bubbles, which is an effective criterion to unambiguously identify the acoustic localisation in the presence of viscosity. Within the localisation region, the phenomenon of phase transition persists, and a remarkable decrease in the fluctuation of the oscillation phases of bubbles is observed. The localisation phenomenon will be impaired by the enhancement of the viscosity factors, and the extent to which the acoustic wave is localised may be determined by appropriately analyzing the values of the oscillation phases or the amount of reduction of the phase fluctuation. The results are particularly significant for the practical experiments in an attempt to observe the acoustic localisation in such a medium, which is in general subjected to the interference of the great ambiguity resulting from the effect of acoustic absorption.展开更多
The Dictyostelium discoideum AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) snfA subcellular localization was studied in AX2 and stable HPF strains by use of AMPK antipeptide antibody and goat anti-rabbit Alexa-Flour 488-conjuga...The Dictyostelium discoideum AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) snfA subcellular localization was studied in AX2 and stable HPF strains by use of AMPK antipeptide antibody and goat anti-rabbit Alexa-Flour 488-conjugated IgG antibody. The AMPK exhibited cytosolic localization patterns and uniform focalised concentrations in wild type and the strains alike. Constitutive activation and attenuation of the α subunit expression did not affect subcellular distribution of AMPK. However, snfA expression was more intense in strains in which AMPK was constitutively active compared with the AX2 but lesser in attenuation strains. The localisation of the snfA reinforced the putative standing that it had a plethora of cytoplasmic functions. Moreover, the oxidative cellular function would require a ubiquitous system and might coordinately regulate responses to metabolic requirements. Furthermore, the developmental phases of the life cycle would support the cytosolic localization;and since organelles were potentially reorganized or removed entirely during the transition from vegetative living to fruiting body morphology. This study provided insight into the subcellular distribution of AMPK in Dictyostelium discoideum. We demonstrated that AMPK localization was steady in AX2 and derived strains whether constitutively active or anti-sense inhibited depicting extreme genetic states.展开更多
The paper presents a computational model for elastic waves in a structured weld adjacent to the free surface of an elastic solid. The main emphasis is on the interaction of waves with the micro-structure of the weld. ...The paper presents a computational model for elastic waves in a structured weld adjacent to the free surface of an elastic solid. The main emphasis is on the interaction of waves with the micro-structure of the weld. Effects of localisation and channeling of waves are addressed. A model of a grain structure within the weld is also considered.展开更多
A novel algorithm for localising a robot in a known two-dimensional environment is presented in this paper. An occupancy grid representing the environment is first converted to a distance function that encodes the dis...A novel algorithm for localising a robot in a known two-dimensional environment is presented in this paper. An occupancy grid representing the environment is first converted to a distance function that encodes the distance to the nearest obstacle from any given location. A Chamfer distance based sensor model to associate observations from a laser ranger finder to the map of the environment without the need for ray tracing, data association, or feature extraction is presented. It is shown that the robot can be localised by solving a non-linear optimisation problem formulated to minimise the Chamfer distance with respect to the robot location. The proposed algorithm is able to perform well even when robot odometry is unavailable and requires only a single tuning parameter to operate even in highly dynamic environments. As such, it is superior than the state-of-the-art particle filter based solutions for robot localisation in occupancy grids, provided that an approximate initial location of the robot is available. Experimental results based on simulated and public domain datasets as well as data collected by the authors are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.展开更多
In this paper,for the first time,an experimental proof of concept for utilising time reversal(TR)in the acoustic regime to localise partial discharge(PD)sources was presented using a single sensor.To achieve this,an e...In this paper,for the first time,an experimental proof of concept for utilising time reversal(TR)in the acoustic regime to localise partial discharge(PD)sources was presented using a single sensor.To achieve this,an experimental setup comprising a water tank,acoustic transducers for signal transmission and reception,and 2D scanners was developed.The performance of the proposed method was evaluated across various scenarios,encompassing different PD source locations and sensor placements,barriers obstructing the line of sight between the receiving sensor and PD sources,varying levels of noise,and different frequency bandwidths for the PD sources.The experimental results demonstrate a near-zero localisation error in all considered examples.The achieved resolution was approximately half of the minimum wavelength.Furthermore,the acoustic TR method exhibits remarkable precision in source localisation,even when faced with obstacles such as a multi-layered metallic cylinder and in scenarios lacking a direct line of sight between the sensor and the source.The accuracy of acoustic TR's localisation remained robust in the presence of noise,showcasing resilience at signal-to-noise ratio levels as low as−20 dB.Additionally,the performance of the acoustic TR method remained consistent across a broad frequency spectrum,spanning from 60 to 200 kHz.展开更多
Shanghai’s modern architectural heritage in the 19^(th) and early 20^(th) centuries is an essential aspect of modern Chinese architectural history because of its outstanding characteristics and well-preserved conditi...Shanghai’s modern architectural heritage in the 19^(th) and early 20^(th) centuries is an essential aspect of modern Chinese architectural history because of its outstanding characteristics and well-preserved conditions.Modern Shanghai architecture was transformed by the importation of Western structural technologies and materials in addition to their forms and institutions.After 100 years of development since 1843,there were over 100 important buildings in the Bund area by 1943.These buildings were built in different periods using the best available structural technologies.This study focuses on the technological dimension of modern Shanghai architecture.Based on an architectural survey and a literature investigation of the Bund buildings,this study explores the evolution of modern structural technologies in Shanghai by analysing the Bund buildings’key structural factors.The influences of the localisation and implementation of Western architecture’s building technologies in Shanghai were also analysed,including time of importation,characteristics and integration of local craftsmanship and materials.This study focuses on the method and analyses of architectural technology history from not only technological and historical perspectives,but also a social sciences perspective.展开更多
Machine learning algorithms are trained and compared to identify and to characterise the impact on typical aerospace panels of different geometry.Experimental activities are conducted to build a proper impacts’datase...Machine learning algorithms are trained and compared to identify and to characterise the impact on typical aerospace panels of different geometry.Experimental activities are conducted to build a proper impacts’dataset.Polynomial regression algorithm and artificial neural network are applied and optimised to panels without stringer to test their capability to identify the impacts.Subsequently,the algorithms are applied to panels reinforced with stringers that represent a significant increase of complexity in terms of dynamic features of the system to test:the focus is not only on the impact position’s detection but also on the event’s severity.After the identification of the best algorithm,the corresponding machine learning model is deployed on an ARM processor minicomputer,implementing an impact detection system,able to be installed on board an aerial vehicle,making it a smart aircraft equipped with an artificial intelligence decision-making system.展开更多
BACKGROUND Neoadjuvant/perioperative chemotherapy is the recommended treatment for advanced stages of gastric cancer(>T2,N+)before tumour resection in many European guidelines.However,there is no consensus as to wh...BACKGROUND Neoadjuvant/perioperative chemotherapy is the recommended treatment for advanced stages of gastric cancer(>T2,N+)before tumour resection in many European guidelines.However,there is no consensus as to whether perioperative chemotherapy is as effective in distal as in proximal tumours,in addition to a relevant uncertainty concerning appropriate treatment modalities for elderly patients.AIM To investigate the role of perioperative chemotherapy in advanced gastric cancer in patients from a German tertiary clinic with respect to efficacy,localisation,and age.METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of 158 patients from our clinic with adenocarcinoma of the stomach or the gastroesophageal junction who underwent resection between 2008 and 2016.The data were evaluated particularly in relation to patient age,tumour site,and perioperative therapy.RESULTS Administration of perioperative chemotherapy did not lead to a significant survival advantage in our study population.The 5-year survival rates were 40%for patients who received perioperative chemotherapy and 29%for the group without perioperative chemotherapy(P=0.125).Our patients were on average distinctly older than patients in most of the published randomised controlled trials.Patients elder than 75 years received perioperative chemotherapy far less frequently.Patients with a proximal tumour received perioperative chemotherapy much more often.CONCLUSION This analysis reconfirms our previous data concerning the effectiveness of perioperative chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer.There is reasonable doubt that the quality of the existing randomized controlled trials is sufficient to generally justify perioperative chemotherapy in patients with advanced gastric cancer independent of tumour localization or age.展开更多
Elderly inhabitants have a strong influence to healthcare facilities globally in the last few years as a result of the high demand on the healthcare services and the gap between the services provided by caregivers and...Elderly inhabitants have a strong influence to healthcare facilities globally in the last few years as a result of the high demand on the healthcare services and the gap between the services provided by caregivers and the increasing number of older people. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technologies have been increasingly adopted in smart homes and used widely for indoor localisation. These technologies have been benefiting to healthcare domain where they improve the quality of services delivering by healthcare providers. This article presents a comprehensive review on RFID systems and healthcare research works in smart homes. We also compare RFID-based solutions in healthcare and distinguish challenges of smart home technologies in indoor environment. We also discuss research challenges related to Activity in Daily Living (ADL) in smart homes for wellbeing.展开更多
Deep repository in geological formations is the preferential solution considered in many countries to manage high-level nuclear wastes. In Switzerland, the Opalinus Clay is a candidate host rock. In this context, in s...Deep repository in geological formations is the preferential solution considered in many countries to manage high-level nuclear wastes. In Switzerland, the Opalinus Clay is a candidate host rock. In this context, in situ and laboratory tests are conducted on Opalinus Clay to demonstrate the feasibility of deep disposal in this argillaceous formation. This paper presents a constitutive model able to fit the experimental data obtained from some triaxial tests conducted by Jahns(2013) on cores from borehole Schlattingen SLA-1. The elasto-plastic behaviour of Opalinus Clay is reproduced thanks to a DruckerPrager model, taking into account the anisotropy behaviour of this sedimentary rock. The objective is to employ a single set of parameters representative of the material. In a second version of the model, the stress-dependence of the elastic properties and damage are taken into account. Finally, the parameters calibrated with experimental tests are used to simulate the excavation of a gallery with a second gradient approach.展开更多
The profile equations of geometric optics are described in a form invariant under the natural transformations of first order systems of partial differential equations. This allows us to prove that various strategies f...The profile equations of geometric optics are described in a form invariant under the natural transformations of first order systems of partial differential equations. This allows us to prove that various strategies for computing profile equations are equivalent. We prove that if L generates an evolution on L2 the same is true of the profile equations. We prove that the characteristic polynomial of the profile equations is the localization of the characteristic polynomial of the background operator at (y, dφ(y)) where φ is the background phase. We prove that the propagation cones of the profile equations are subsets of the propagation cones of the background operator.展开更多
The convergence of Internet of Things(IoT),vehicularad hoc network(VANET),and mobile ad hoc network relies on sensor networks to gather data from nodes or objects.These networks involve nodes,gateways,and anchors,oper...The convergence of Internet of Things(IoT),vehicularad hoc network(VANET),and mobile ad hoc network relies on sensor networks to gather data from nodes or objects.These networks involve nodes,gateways,and anchors,operating on limited battery power,mainly used in broadcasting.IoT applications,like healthcare,smart cities,and transportation,often need position data and face challenges in delay sensitivity.Localisation is important in ITS and VANETs,influencing autonomous vehicles,collision warning systems,and road information dissemination.A robust localisation system,often combining GPS with techniques like Dead Reckoning and Image/Video Localisation,is essential for accuracy and security.Artificial intelligence(AI)integration,particularly in machine learning,enhances indoor wireless localisation effectiveness.Advancements in wireless communication(WSN,IoT,and massive MIMO)transform dense environments into programmable entities,but pose challenges in aligning self‐learning AI with sensor tech for accuracy and budget considerations.We seek original research on sensor localisation,fusion,protocols,and positioning algorithms,inviting contributions from industry and academia to address these evolving challenges.展开更多
Saudi Arabia is currently in a transformation phase, which has resulted in a significant demand for healthcare services in the country’s healthcare system to provide better healthcare facilities for the fast-growing ...Saudi Arabia is currently in a transformation phase, which has resulted in a significant demand for healthcare services in the country’s healthcare system to provide better healthcare facilities for the fast-growing population and the growing elderly population. The lack of trained healthcare professionals and strong dependence on foreign labour are important aspects for policymakers to address, thus requiring Human Resource Development (HRD) initiatives to provide adequate learning and competence to a huge reserve of healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia. In this regard, this paper contributes to Saudi Arabian health care by reporting healthcare professionals’ experiences of working in the Saudi health sector under the newly proposed Vision 2030 and NTP 2020 interventions in the HRD sphere of healthcare. The Vision 2030 is a testimony to a revolutionary step taken by the Government to reform the Saudi healthcare sector and provide HRD opportunities.展开更多
In this paper, we propose a novel idea for improvement performances of the leader M-BCJR algorithm functioning in low complexity. The basic idea consists to localize error instant possibility, and then increase the co...In this paper, we propose a novel idea for improvement performances of the leader M-BCJR algorithm functioning in low complexity. The basic idea consists to localize error instant possibility, and then increase the complexity around this moment. We also propose an easy and important idea for early localisation of erroneous moments. We call this new algorithm Z-MAP. The simulations show that the improvement of performances is significant. The performances of Z-MAP turbo decoding are so close to full MAP-BCJR performances. Furthermore, the complexity is the same that of the M-BCJR. So, Z-MAP is an optimal version of M-BCJR algorithm.展开更多
This article gives an elementary account of the recently proposed theory of spontaneous quantum gravity. It is argued that a viable quantum theory of gravity should be falsifiable, and hence it should dynamically expl...This article gives an elementary account of the recently proposed theory of spontaneous quantum gravity. It is argued that a viable quantum theory of gravity should be falsifiable, and hence it should dynamically explain the observed absence of quantum superpositions of space-time geometries in its classical limit.展开更多
The effect of in-situ local damage of uniform porous corrosion products on the localised corrosion of carbon steel is investigated using the wire beam electrode technique(WBE)combined with morphology characterisation ...The effect of in-situ local damage of uniform porous corrosion products on the localised corrosion of carbon steel is investigated using the wire beam electrode technique(WBE)combined with morphology characterisation and electrochemical tests.The WBE measurements demonstrate that the localised corrosion is enhanced by the in-situ local removal of porous corrosion products,supported by the morphology characterisation and electrochemical tests.The enhanced localised corrosion does not originate from the damaged wire in WBE where the corrosion products are removed but from the other undamaged wires,which is reported for the first time.A mechanism is proposed that the intensive anodic polarisation effect of the damaged wire on the undamaged wires could account for the enhanced localised corrosion,which is due to the protective corrosion products newly formed on the damaged surface and the increase in the potential of damaged wire.展开更多
基金Supported by SynMed UK related to this workDr.Koulaouzidis A has also received lecture honoraria from Dr Falk PharmaUnited kingdom
文摘In order to improve lesion localisation in small-bowel capsule endoscopy,a modified capsule design has been proposed incorporating localisation and-in theorystabilization capabilities.The proposed design consists of a capsule fitted with protruding wheels attached to a spring-mechanism.This would act as a miniature odometer,leading to more accurate lesion localization information in relation to the onset of the investigation(spring expansion e.g.,pyloric opening).Furthermore,this capsule could allow stabilization of the recorded video as any erratic,non-forward movement through the gut is minimised.Three-dimensional(3-D)printing technology was used to build a capsule prototype.Thereafter,miniature wheels were also 3-D printed and mounted on a spring which was attached to conventional capsule endoscopes for the purpose of this proof-of-concept experiment.In vitro and ex vivo experiments with porcine small-bowel are presented herein.Further experiments have been scheduled.
文摘AIM: To determine the role of scintigraphy in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding of unknown Iocalisation. METHODS: We performed retrospective analyses on 92 patients receiving scintigraphies from 1993 to 2000 in the University of Regensburg hospital, which were done for Iocalisation of GI bleeding as a diagnostic step after an unsuccessful endoscopy. In addition to the scintigraphies, further diagnostic steps such as endoscopy, angiography or operations were performed. In some of the scintigraphies with negative results, a provocation test for bleeding with heparinisation was carried out. RESULTS: 73% of all scintigraphies showed a positive result. In 4.5% of the positive results, the source was located in the stomach, in 37% the source was the small bowel, in 25% the source was the right colon, in 4.5% the source was the left colon, and in 20% no clear Iocalisation was possible. Only 4% of all scintigraphies were false positive. A reliable positive scintigraphy was independent of the age of the examined patient. A provocation test for bleeding with heparin resulted in an additional 46% of positive scintigraphies with a reliable Iocalisation in primary negative scintigraphies. CONCLUSION- Our results show that scintigraphy and scintigraphy with heparin provocation tests are reliable procedures. They enable a reliable Iocalisation in about half of the obscure GI-bleeding cases. Scintigraphy is superior to angiography in locating a bleeding. It is shown that even in the age of video capsule endoscopy and double-balloon enteroscopy, scintigraphy provides a reliable and directed localization of GI bleeding and offers carefully targeted guidance for other procedures.
文摘A novel radar-based system for longwall coal mine machine localisation is described. The system, based on a radar-ranging sensor and designed to localise mining equipment with respect to the mine tunnel gate road infrastructure, is developed and trialled in an underground coal mine. The challenges of reliable sensing in the mine environment are considered, and the use of a radar sensor for localisation is justified. The difficulties of achieving reliable positioning using only the radar sensor are examined. Several probabilistic data processing techniques are explored in order to estimate two key localisation parameters from a single radar signal, namely along-track position and across-track position, with respect to the gate road structures. For the case of across-track position, a conventional Kalman filter approach is sufficient to achieve a reliable estimate. However for along-track position estimation, specific infrastructure elements on the gate road rib-wall must be identified by a tracking algorithm. Due to complexities associated with this data processing problem, a novel visual analytics approach was explored in a 3D interactive display to facilitate identification of significant features for use in a classifier algorithm. Based on the classifier output, identified elements are used as location waypoints to provide a robust and accurate mining equipment localisation estimate.
基金the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science and their financial support through the JSPS Fellowship Programme to conduct research activities at the University of Tokyo.
文摘To understand the deformational behaviours of geosynthetics-reinforced soil retaining walls(GRS RWs),a series of plane-strain shaking table tests was conducted on retaining wall models.The backfill of the models was made of poorly graded gravel.Deformations and strains in the gravelly backfill induced by seismic loading are recorded in real time,which are of importance to understand the seismic strength and stability of the GRS RW systems,as strain localisation development in the backfill and foundation is related to the degree of strength degradation of the system.In the present study,we aimed at quantifying the induced deformations of the GRS RW models due to shaking.Digital image correlation(DIC)technique was then employed to analyse and provide full-field deformation and motion images with the models.It is demonstrated that,unlike conventional contact devices that are yet limited to provide quantities of a singular and fixed location,DIC provides deformation and motion of the area of interests to reveal the evolution of localisation.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos.10804050 and 10874086)the Ministry of Education of China (Grant Nos.20060284035 and 705017)
文摘We study via numerical experiments the localisation property of an acoustic wave in a viscoelastic soft medium containing randomly-distributed air bubbles. The behaviours of the oscillation phases of bubbles are particularly investigated in various cases for distinguishing efficiently the acoustic localisation from the effects of acoustic absorption caused by the viscosity of medium. The numerical results reveal the phenomenon of 'phase transition' characterized by an unusual collective oscillation of bubbles, which is an effective criterion to unambiguously identify the acoustic localisation in the presence of viscosity. Within the localisation region, the phenomenon of phase transition persists, and a remarkable decrease in the fluctuation of the oscillation phases of bubbles is observed. The localisation phenomenon will be impaired by the enhancement of the viscosity factors, and the extent to which the acoustic wave is localised may be determined by appropriately analyzing the values of the oscillation phases or the amount of reduction of the phase fluctuation. The results are particularly significant for the practical experiments in an attempt to observe the acoustic localisation in such a medium, which is in general subjected to the interference of the great ambiguity resulting from the effect of acoustic absorption.
文摘The Dictyostelium discoideum AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) snfA subcellular localization was studied in AX2 and stable HPF strains by use of AMPK antipeptide antibody and goat anti-rabbit Alexa-Flour 488-conjugated IgG antibody. The AMPK exhibited cytosolic localization patterns and uniform focalised concentrations in wild type and the strains alike. Constitutive activation and attenuation of the α subunit expression did not affect subcellular distribution of AMPK. However, snfA expression was more intense in strains in which AMPK was constitutively active compared with the AX2 but lesser in attenuation strains. The localisation of the snfA reinforced the putative standing that it had a plethora of cytoplasmic functions. Moreover, the oxidative cellular function would require a ubiquitous system and might coordinately regulate responses to metabolic requirements. Furthermore, the developmental phases of the life cycle would support the cytosolic localization;and since organelles were potentially reorganized or removed entirely during the transition from vegetative living to fruiting body morphology. This study provided insight into the subcellular distribution of AMPK in Dictyostelium discoideum. We demonstrated that AMPK localization was steady in AX2 and derived strains whether constitutively active or anti-sense inhibited depicting extreme genetic states.
基金supported by a scholarship funded by Serco Technical Assurance Services
文摘The paper presents a computational model for elastic waves in a structured weld adjacent to the free surface of an elastic solid. The main emphasis is on the interaction of waves with the micro-structure of the weld. Effects of localisation and channeling of waves are addressed. A model of a grain structure within the weld is also considered.
文摘A novel algorithm for localising a robot in a known two-dimensional environment is presented in this paper. An occupancy grid representing the environment is first converted to a distance function that encodes the distance to the nearest obstacle from any given location. A Chamfer distance based sensor model to associate observations from a laser ranger finder to the map of the environment without the need for ray tracing, data association, or feature extraction is presented. It is shown that the robot can be localised by solving a non-linear optimisation problem formulated to minimise the Chamfer distance with respect to the robot location. The proposed algorithm is able to perform well even when robot odometry is unavailable and requires only a single tuning parameter to operate even in highly dynamic environments. As such, it is superior than the state-of-the-art particle filter based solutions for robot localisation in occupancy grids, provided that an approximate initial location of the robot is available. Experimental results based on simulated and public domain datasets as well as data collected by the authors are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
文摘In this paper,for the first time,an experimental proof of concept for utilising time reversal(TR)in the acoustic regime to localise partial discharge(PD)sources was presented using a single sensor.To achieve this,an experimental setup comprising a water tank,acoustic transducers for signal transmission and reception,and 2D scanners was developed.The performance of the proposed method was evaluated across various scenarios,encompassing different PD source locations and sensor placements,barriers obstructing the line of sight between the receiving sensor and PD sources,varying levels of noise,and different frequency bandwidths for the PD sources.The experimental results demonstrate a near-zero localisation error in all considered examples.The achieved resolution was approximately half of the minimum wavelength.Furthermore,the acoustic TR method exhibits remarkable precision in source localisation,even when faced with obstacles such as a multi-layered metallic cylinder and in scenarios lacking a direct line of sight between the sensor and the source.The accuracy of acoustic TR's localisation remained robust in the presence of noise,showcasing resilience at signal-to-noise ratio levels as low as−20 dB.Additionally,the performance of the acoustic TR method remained consistent across a broad frequency spectrum,spanning from 60 to 200 kHz.
文摘Shanghai’s modern architectural heritage in the 19^(th) and early 20^(th) centuries is an essential aspect of modern Chinese architectural history because of its outstanding characteristics and well-preserved conditions.Modern Shanghai architecture was transformed by the importation of Western structural technologies and materials in addition to their forms and institutions.After 100 years of development since 1843,there were over 100 important buildings in the Bund area by 1943.These buildings were built in different periods using the best available structural technologies.This study focuses on the technological dimension of modern Shanghai architecture.Based on an architectural survey and a literature investigation of the Bund buildings,this study explores the evolution of modern structural technologies in Shanghai by analysing the Bund buildings’key structural factors.The influences of the localisation and implementation of Western architecture’s building technologies in Shanghai were also analysed,including time of importation,characteristics and integration of local craftsmanship and materials.This study focuses on the method and analyses of architectural technology history from not only technological and historical perspectives,but also a social sciences perspective.
文摘Machine learning algorithms are trained and compared to identify and to characterise the impact on typical aerospace panels of different geometry.Experimental activities are conducted to build a proper impacts’dataset.Polynomial regression algorithm and artificial neural network are applied and optimised to panels without stringer to test their capability to identify the impacts.Subsequently,the algorithms are applied to panels reinforced with stringers that represent a significant increase of complexity in terms of dynamic features of the system to test:the focus is not only on the impact position’s detection but also on the event’s severity.After the identification of the best algorithm,the corresponding machine learning model is deployed on an ARM processor minicomputer,implementing an impact detection system,able to be installed on board an aerial vehicle,making it a smart aircraft equipped with an artificial intelligence decision-making system.
文摘BACKGROUND Neoadjuvant/perioperative chemotherapy is the recommended treatment for advanced stages of gastric cancer(>T2,N+)before tumour resection in many European guidelines.However,there is no consensus as to whether perioperative chemotherapy is as effective in distal as in proximal tumours,in addition to a relevant uncertainty concerning appropriate treatment modalities for elderly patients.AIM To investigate the role of perioperative chemotherapy in advanced gastric cancer in patients from a German tertiary clinic with respect to efficacy,localisation,and age.METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of 158 patients from our clinic with adenocarcinoma of the stomach or the gastroesophageal junction who underwent resection between 2008 and 2016.The data were evaluated particularly in relation to patient age,tumour site,and perioperative therapy.RESULTS Administration of perioperative chemotherapy did not lead to a significant survival advantage in our study population.The 5-year survival rates were 40%for patients who received perioperative chemotherapy and 29%for the group without perioperative chemotherapy(P=0.125).Our patients were on average distinctly older than patients in most of the published randomised controlled trials.Patients elder than 75 years received perioperative chemotherapy far less frequently.Patients with a proximal tumour received perioperative chemotherapy much more often.CONCLUSION This analysis reconfirms our previous data concerning the effectiveness of perioperative chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer.There is reasonable doubt that the quality of the existing randomized controlled trials is sufficient to generally justify perioperative chemotherapy in patients with advanced gastric cancer independent of tumour localization or age.
文摘Elderly inhabitants have a strong influence to healthcare facilities globally in the last few years as a result of the high demand on the healthcare services and the gap between the services provided by caregivers and the increasing number of older people. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technologies have been increasingly adopted in smart homes and used widely for indoor localisation. These technologies have been benefiting to healthcare domain where they improve the quality of services delivering by healthcare providers. This article presents a comprehensive review on RFID systems and healthcare research works in smart homes. We also compare RFID-based solutions in healthcare and distinguish challenges of smart home technologies in indoor environment. We also discuss research challenges related to Activity in Daily Living (ADL) in smart homes for wellbeing.
文摘Deep repository in geological formations is the preferential solution considered in many countries to manage high-level nuclear wastes. In Switzerland, the Opalinus Clay is a candidate host rock. In this context, in situ and laboratory tests are conducted on Opalinus Clay to demonstrate the feasibility of deep disposal in this argillaceous formation. This paper presents a constitutive model able to fit the experimental data obtained from some triaxial tests conducted by Jahns(2013) on cores from borehole Schlattingen SLA-1. The elasto-plastic behaviour of Opalinus Clay is reproduced thanks to a DruckerPrager model, taking into account the anisotropy behaviour of this sedimentary rock. The objective is to employ a single set of parameters representative of the material. In a second version of the model, the stress-dependence of the elastic properties and damage are taken into account. Finally, the parameters calibrated with experimental tests are used to simulate the excavation of a gallery with a second gradient approach.
文摘The profile equations of geometric optics are described in a form invariant under the natural transformations of first order systems of partial differential equations. This allows us to prove that various strategies for computing profile equations are equivalent. We prove that if L generates an evolution on L2 the same is true of the profile equations. We prove that the characteristic polynomial of the profile equations is the localization of the characteristic polynomial of the background operator at (y, dφ(y)) where φ is the background phase. We prove that the propagation cones of the profile equations are subsets of the propagation cones of the background operator.
文摘The convergence of Internet of Things(IoT),vehicularad hoc network(VANET),and mobile ad hoc network relies on sensor networks to gather data from nodes or objects.These networks involve nodes,gateways,and anchors,operating on limited battery power,mainly used in broadcasting.IoT applications,like healthcare,smart cities,and transportation,often need position data and face challenges in delay sensitivity.Localisation is important in ITS and VANETs,influencing autonomous vehicles,collision warning systems,and road information dissemination.A robust localisation system,often combining GPS with techniques like Dead Reckoning and Image/Video Localisation,is essential for accuracy and security.Artificial intelligence(AI)integration,particularly in machine learning,enhances indoor wireless localisation effectiveness.Advancements in wireless communication(WSN,IoT,and massive MIMO)transform dense environments into programmable entities,but pose challenges in aligning self‐learning AI with sensor tech for accuracy and budget considerations.We seek original research on sensor localisation,fusion,protocols,and positioning algorithms,inviting contributions from industry and academia to address these evolving challenges.
文摘Saudi Arabia is currently in a transformation phase, which has resulted in a significant demand for healthcare services in the country’s healthcare system to provide better healthcare facilities for the fast-growing population and the growing elderly population. The lack of trained healthcare professionals and strong dependence on foreign labour are important aspects for policymakers to address, thus requiring Human Resource Development (HRD) initiatives to provide adequate learning and competence to a huge reserve of healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia. In this regard, this paper contributes to Saudi Arabian health care by reporting healthcare professionals’ experiences of working in the Saudi health sector under the newly proposed Vision 2030 and NTP 2020 interventions in the HRD sphere of healthcare. The Vision 2030 is a testimony to a revolutionary step taken by the Government to reform the Saudi healthcare sector and provide HRD opportunities.
文摘In this paper, we propose a novel idea for improvement performances of the leader M-BCJR algorithm functioning in low complexity. The basic idea consists to localize error instant possibility, and then increase the complexity around this moment. We also propose an easy and important idea for early localisation of erroneous moments. We call this new algorithm Z-MAP. The simulations show that the improvement of performances is significant. The performances of Z-MAP turbo decoding are so close to full MAP-BCJR performances. Furthermore, the complexity is the same that of the M-BCJR. So, Z-MAP is an optimal version of M-BCJR algorithm.
文摘This article gives an elementary account of the recently proposed theory of spontaneous quantum gravity. It is argued that a viable quantum theory of gravity should be falsifiable, and hence it should dynamically explain the observed absence of quantum superpositions of space-time geometries in its classical limit.
基金the Opening Project of Material Corrosion and Protection Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province(No.2017CL18)。
文摘The effect of in-situ local damage of uniform porous corrosion products on the localised corrosion of carbon steel is investigated using the wire beam electrode technique(WBE)combined with morphology characterisation and electrochemical tests.The WBE measurements demonstrate that the localised corrosion is enhanced by the in-situ local removal of porous corrosion products,supported by the morphology characterisation and electrochemical tests.The enhanced localised corrosion does not originate from the damaged wire in WBE where the corrosion products are removed but from the other undamaged wires,which is reported for the first time.A mechanism is proposed that the intensive anodic polarisation effect of the damaged wire on the undamaged wires could account for the enhanced localised corrosion,which is due to the protective corrosion products newly formed on the damaged surface and the increase in the potential of damaged wire.