NH3 in the Galactic Center is formed in Cool Conditions

It is an open question why the temperature of molecular gas in the Galactic center region is higher than that of dust. To address this problem, we made simultaneous observations in the NH_3 (J,K) = (1,1), (2,2), and (3,3) lines of the central molecular zone (CMZ) using the Kagoshima 6 m telescope. The ortho-to-para ratio of NH_3 molecules in the CMZ is 1.5--3.5 at most observed area. This ratio is higher than the statistical equilibrium value, and suggests that the formation temperature of NH_3 is 11--20 K. This temperature is similar to the dust temperature estimated from the submillimeter and infrared continuum. This result suggests that the NH_3 molecules in the CMZ were produced on dust grains with the currently observed temperature (11--20 K), and they were released into the gas phase by supernova shocks or collisions of dust particles. The discrepancy between warm molecular gas and cold dust can be explained by the transient heating of the interstellar media in the CMZ approximately 10^5 years ago when the NH_3 molecules were released from the dust.Comment: 19 pages, 12 figures, accepted for PAS

A Robotic Voice Simulator and the Interactive Training for Hearing-Impaired People

A talking and singing robot which adaptively learns the vocalization skill by means of an auditory feedback learning algorithm is being developed. The robot consists of motor-controlled vocal organs such as vocal cords, a vocal tract and a nasal cavity to generate a natural voice imitating a human vocalization. In this study, the robot is applied to the training system of speech articulation for the hearing-impaired, because the robot is able to reproduce their vocalization and to teach them how it is to be improved to generate clear speech. The paper briefly introduces the mechanical construction of the robot and how it autonomously acquires the vocalization skill in the auditory feedback learning by listening to human speech. Then the training system is described, together with the evaluation of the speech training by auditory impaired people

To What Extent Could the Development of an Airborne Thermal Imaging Detection System Contribute to Enhance Detection?

Over the past two decades, several initiatives that involved research and development on sensor and detection systems have failed to successfully integrate with clearance operations and have not been able to help affected states overcome the humanitarian challenges caused by weapon contamination. Though initial tests were promising, when faced with the reality of the field, the technology often indicates shortcomings.[i] The terrain, dense vegetation, metal clutter, or other obstacles encountered in humanitarian mine action (HMA) pose challenges often greater than reliable target detection. Therefore, understanding the inherent challenges of a task is paramount when discussing the entry of new technologies into the field HMA.[i

Quantitative Tactile Examination Using Shape Memory Alloy Actuators for the Early Detection of Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy (DPN) is asymptomatic in its early phases but can cause serious complications as it progresses. Most DPN tests are cumbersome and produce only qualitative assessments, and simpler approaches that yield quantitative results are needed. Techniques that allow patients to perform examinations themselves would be especially valuable. In this study, we focused on quantifying the decline in tactile sensation associated with DPN and developed a measurement device that used a thin shape memory alloy (SMA) wire as the actuator. An ON/OFF pulse current caused the wire to shrink and expand. This vibration was amplified by a round-headed pin, allowing even DPN patients with reduced tactile sensitivity to detect the stimuli generated when lightly touching the pin with their fingertips. The tactile stimuli were ranked into 30 levels of intensity. A key advantage of the device is that it can be used by patients themselves, returning quantified results within minutes. Although developed for DPN, the method can be applied to the detection of peripheral neuropathy in general

テトラヒドロイソキノリンアルカロイドの統一的合成戦略の開発

学位の種別: 課程博士審査委員会委員 : （主査）東京大学教授 井上 将行, 東京大学教授 大和田 智彦, 東京大学教授 内山 真伸, 東京大学講師 尾谷 優子, 東京大学講師 生長 幸之助University of Tokyo(東京大学

Video conference smart room: an information fusion system based on distributed sensors

International audienceThe needs for cross domain technologies called mecatronics have increased in the recent years and examples of mechanical tools directed by computers are now widely available. This paper gives an example of information fusion in the context of a video conference room and exposes two axes of the research. First it shows how to fuse information provided by several sources to locate a speaker. To do this, the system fuses data produced by video cameras and their associated image processing algorithm, with information resulting from signal processing algorithms applied on several micro-phones. Second, this article describes the distributed information fusion system (DIFS) used and the algorithm which decides where the speaker is located in order to allow focus on him. The whole application is managed by a new control system specifically developed for DIFSs. Some key points of the theoretical model on which the control is based are also given