Lookahead Computation in G-DEVS/HLA Environment

International audienceIn this article, we present new methods to evaluate lookahead of DEVS/G-DEVS federates participating in a HLA federation. We propose first an algorithm to compute the lookahead according to the current state of a DEVS/G-DEVS model. This solution is designed for models with lifetime function depending on one state variable. Then, we extend this computation to models with lifetime functions defined with several state variables. We use the Dijkstra graph theory search to compute the different values of state variables and a mathematical function analysis to determine the lookahead for the model states. Finally, we illustrate with an example how this solution extends the range of DEVS/G-DEVS models that can be involved into distributed simulations and we present some simulation results

Coverage Criteria for Set-Based Specifications

Model-based testing (MBT) studies how test cases are generated from a model of the system under test (SUT). Many MBT methods rely on building an automaton from the model and then they generate test cases by covering the automaton with different path coverage criteria. However, if a model of the SUT is a logical formula over some complex mathematical theories (such as set theory) it may be more natural or intuitive to apply coverage criteria directly over the formula. On the other hand, domain partition, i.e. the partition of the input domain of model operations, is one of the main techniques in MBT. Partitioning is conducted by applying different rules or heuristics. Engineers may find it difficult to decide what, where and how these rules should be applied. In this paper we propose a set of coverage criteria based on domain partition for set-based specifications. We call them testing strategies. Testing strategies play a similar role to path- or data-based coverage criteria in structural testing. Furthermore, we show a partial order of testing strategies as is done in structural testing. We also describe an implementation of testing strategies for the Test Template Framework, which is a MBT method for the Z notation; and a scripting language that allows users to implement testing strategies

Environnement G-DEVS/HLA pour la simulation distribuée de systèmes de production multiprocessus

International audienceThis paper presents a simulation environment for manufacturing systems integrating control processes and operational processes. From the operational processes specification according to the JIS Z 8206 norm and from the control processes as Workflows standards, distributed G-DEVS models are generated. At first, the transformation of a process in G-DEVS models is described. Then, the implementation of a global simulation of the set of these models via an HLA architecture allowing interconnection and interoperability between the model components is presented. An illustration of the use of this environment is given in the microelectronic field. We conclude by the application of this approach to the study of the synchronizations between production lines and to the implementation of coupling between simulation and reality

Effect of an extract of Centella asiatica on the biodistribution of sodium pertechnetate (Na^99mTcO₄) and on the fixation of radioactivity on blood constituents

This study evaluates the effects of an acute treatment with a Centella asiatica (CA) extract on the biodistribution of the radiopharmaceutical Na99mTcO4 and on the fixation of technetium-99m on blood constituents. Wistar rats were treated with CA extract and, 1 hour after, Na99mTcO4 was administered; organs/tissues were withdrawn and weighted. The radioactivity was counted to calculate the percentage of activity per gram (%ATI/g). Also, blood samples were withdrawn, plasma (P), blood cells (BC), insoluble fraction (IF) and soluble fractions of P and BC were isolated and the radioactivity was counted to calculate the percentage of activity (%ATI). Data indicated that the acute treatment with CA extract changed significantly (p99mTcO4 and the fixation of the technetium-99m on blood constituents in an acute treatment

Applying SMT Solvers to the Test Template Framework

The Test Template Framework (TTF) is a model-based testing method for the Z notation. In the TTF, test cases are generated from test specifications, which are predicates written in Z. In turn, the Z notation is based on first-order logic with equality and Zermelo-Fraenkel set theory. In this way, a test case is a witness satisfying a formula in that theory. Satisfiability Modulo Theory (SMT) solvers are software tools that decide the satisfiability of arbitrary formulas in a large number of built-in logical theories and their combination. In this paper, we present the first results of applying two SMT solvers, Yices and CVC3, as the engines to find test cases from TTF's test specifications. In doing so, shallow embeddings of a significant portion of the Z notation into the input languages of Yices and CVC3 are provided, given that they do not directly support Zermelo-Fraenkel set theory as defined in Z. Finally, the results of applying these embeddings to a number of test specifications of eight cases studies are analysed.Comment: In Proceedings MBT 2012, arXiv:1202.582

Wolbachia Symbiont Infections Induce Strong Cytoplasmic Incompatibility in the Tsetse Fly Glossina morsitans

Tsetse flies are vectors of the protozoan parasite African trypanosomes, which cause sleeping sickness disease in humans and nagana in livestock. Although there are no effective vaccines and efficacious drugs against this parasite, vector reduction methods have been successful in curbing the disease, especially for nagana. Potential vector control methods that do not involve use of chemicals is a genetic modification approach where flies engineered to be parasite resistant are allowed to replace their susceptible natural counterparts, and Sterile Insect technique (SIT) where males sterilized by chemical means are released to suppress female fecundity. The success of genetic modification approaches requires identification of strong drive systems to spread the desirable traits and the efficacy of SIT can be enhanced by identification of natural mating incompatibility. One such drive mechanism results from the cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) phenomenon induced by the symbiont Wolbachia. CI can also be used to induce natural mating incompatibility between release males and natural populations. Although Wolbachia infections have been reported in tsetse, it has been a challenge to understand their functional biology as attempts to cure tsetse of Wolbachia infections by antibiotic treatment damages the obligate mutualistic symbiont (Wigglesworthia), without which the flies are sterile. Here, we developed aposymbiotic (symbiont-free) and fertile tsetse lines by dietary provisioning of tetracycline supplemented blood meals with yeast extract, which rescues Wigglesworthia-induced sterility. Our results reveal that Wolbachia infections confer strong CI during embryogenesis in Wolbachia-free (GmmApo) females when mated with Wolbachia-infected (GmmWt) males. These results are the first demonstration of the biological significance of Wolbachia infections in tsetse. Furthermore, when incorporated into a mathematical model, our results confirm that Wolbachia can be used successfully as a gene driver. This lays the foundation for new disease control methods including a population replacement approach with parasite resistant flies. Alternatively, the availability of males that are reproductively incompatible with natural populations can enhance the efficacy of the ongoing sterile insect technique (SIT) applications by eliminating the need for chemical irradiation

DeBuMa: systeme pour la description, la construction et l'execution d'applications en CAO

SIGLEINIST T 76959 / INIST-CNRS - Institut de l'Information Scientifique et TechniqueFRFranc

Un environnement G-DEVS / HLA : application à la modélisation et simulation distribuée de workflow

Les travaux de cette thèse portent sur : - la proposition d algorithmes de simulation distribuée conservative de modèles DEVS / G-DEVS, - la définition et la réalisation d un environnement de modélisation & simulation (M&S) G-DEVS compatible HLA implémentant les algorithmes proposés, - l application de l environnement à la M&S de Workflow. Dans un premier temps, nous avons introduit un composant coordinateur racine G-DEVS distribué, incluant un algorithme de communication avec le RTI HLA basé sur le mécanisme de synchronisation conservative et utilisant un Lookahead positif. Nous avons ensuite proposé deux algorithmes originaux pour le calcul d un Lookahead relatif à l état courant d un modèle G-DEVS. Ces algorithmes, basés sur l analyse du domaine de variation de la fonction durée de vie du modèle, augmentent les performances de la simulation distribuée comme l illustrent les expériences menées. Basé sur ces approches, nous avons développé un environnement de M&S distribué G-DEVS / HLA. Cet environnement a été intégré à une application de Workflow. Les possibilités offertes par l environnement ont été illustrées par l étude de cas réels d entreprises.AIX-MARSEILLE3-BU Sc.St Jérô (130552102) / SudocSudocFranceF