Grid edge system simulation and evaluation tool (GESSO): Development of a tool for the modelling and design of distributed cooperating microgrids

As advancements are made in the availability of small renewable generation power storage technologies, nations are starting to see a trend towards more distributed power and generation. As times change, changes must also be made to the ways in which we consume and distribute power. Distributed microgrids represent the ability for communities to cooperate in the distribution of power within neighborhoods. This thesis explores the structure of neighborhood scale distributed microgrids, defining the features and components needed to provide for accurate simulation. Techniques are developed for the integration of non-homogeneous microgrid systems to allow for smart grid-edge trading between units and microgrids. Exploration is conducted on the features required for an interactive system allowing the design and modelling of individual microgrid components and of neighborhood-scale microgrids, including the design of per-unit smart control schemes, and a proof of concept implementation is created allowing for simulation of non-homogeneous neighborhood scale fractal microgrids with arbitrary complexity. Sample cases are presented in order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the tool. The presented sample cases serve to demonstrate the effectiveness of small non-homogeneous microgrids, including those involving third party storage leasing services, and analysis is performed on the expected economic impacts of these types of systems

Nitrite formulations and their use as nitric oxide prodrugs

Compositions comprising from about 40 weight parts to about 1000 weight parts of a botanical nitrate source; from about 20 weight parts to about 500 weight parts of a botanical source of nitrite reduction activity; and from about 4 weight parts to about 100 weight parts of a nitrite salt. Use of the composition in methods of reducing triglycerides or reducing C-reactive protein levels are also provided.Board of Regents, University of Texas Syste

Iris Detection Authenticator

The development of iris biometric identification recognition is presented. Iris recognition differs from other methods because data acquisition is non-physical and is more accessible. It has been proven that the iris does not change as an individual ages and is well protected from external damages due to the eyelid and cornea, acting as a shield to the iris. In addition, the iris is almost impossible to forge due to its complex patterns and the current limitations in technology. Using Canny Edge Detection, Hough Transform, rubber-sheet normalization, Histogram of Gradient feature extraction, and the MultiMedia University iris database as our subjects, we design a more reliable iris recognition software

Stochastic Optimization of Power System Dynamics for Grid Resilience

When faced with uncertainty regarding potential failure contingencies, prioritizing system resiliency through optimal control of exciter reference voltage and mechanical torque can be arduous due to the scope of potential failure contingencies. Optimal control schemes can be generated through a two-stage stochastic optimization model by anticipating a set of contingencies with associated probabilities of occurrence, followed by the optimal recourse action once the contingency has been realized. The first stage, common across all contingency scenarios, co-optimally positions the grid for the set of possible contingencies. The second stage dynamically assesses the impact of each contingency and allows for emergency control response. By unifying the optimal control scheme prior and post the failure contingency, a singular policy can be constructed to maximize system resiliency

Nitric oxide and its metabolites in the critical phase of illness: rapid biomarkers in the making

The potential of nitric oxide (NO) as a rapid assay biomarker, one that could provide a quantum leap in acute care, remains largely untapped. NO plays a crucial role as bronchodilator, vasodilator and inflammatory mediator. The main objective of this review is to demonstrate how NO is a molecule of heavy interest in various acute disease states along the emergency department and critical care spectrum: respiratory infections, central nervous system infections, asthma, acute kidney injury, sepsis, septic shock, and myocardial ischemia, to name just a few. We discuss how NO and its oxidative metabolites, nitrite and nitrate, are readily detectable in several body compartments and fluids, and as such they are associated with many of the pathophysiological processes mentioned above. With methods such as high performance liquid chromatography and chemiluminescence these entities are relatively easy and inexpensive to analyze. Emphasis is placed on diagnostic rapidity, as this relates directly to quality of care in acute care situations. Further, a rationale is provided for more bench, translational and clinical research in the field of NO biomarkers for such settings. Developing standard protocols for the aforementioned disease states, centered on concentrations of NO and its metabolites, can prove to revolutionize diagnostics and prognostication along a spectrum of clinical care. We present a strong case for developing these biomarkers more as point-of-care assays with potential of color gradient test strips for rapid screening of disease entities in acute care and beyond. This will be relevant to global health