A Generic Method for the Reliable Calculation of Large- Scale Fading in an Obstacle-Dense Propagation Environment

The aim of this chapter is to summarize and present recent findings in the field of wireless channel mod- eling that provide a new method for the reliable calculation of the statistical parameters of large-scale variations of the average received signal (shadow fading). This algorithm is theoretically based on a path loss estimation model that incorporates losses due to walls and floors. This has been confirmed to be the most precise mathematical tool for average signal strength prediction for various frequencies of interest and propagation environments. The total path loss is estimated as a sum of two independent attenuation processes: free space loss and losses due to obstacles. This solution allows for a direct and reliable calculation of the deviation of the fluctuations of the average received signal in an obstacle- dense environment

Wireless Information-Theoretic Security: Theoretical analysis & experimental measurements with multiple eavesdroppers in an outdoor obstacle-dense MANET

Wireless Information-Theoretic Security (WITS) has been suggested as a robust security scheme, especially for infrastructure-less networks. Based on the physical layer, WITS considers quasi-static Rayleigh fading instead of the classic Gaussian wiretap scenario. In this paper, they key parameters of WITS are investigated by implementing an 802.11n ad-hoc network in an outdoor obstacle-dense topology. Measurements performed throughout the topology allow for a realistic evaluation of a scenario with multiple moving eavesdroppers. Low speed user movement has been considered, so that Doppler spread can be discarded. A set of discrete field test trials have been conducted, based on simulation of human mobility throughout an obstacle-constrained environment. Average Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) values have been measured for all moving nodes, and the Probability of Non-Zero Secrecy Capacity has been calculated for different eavesdropping cooperative schemes (Selection Combining and Maximal-Ratio Combining). In addition, the Outage Probability has been estimated with regard to a nonzero target Secrecy Rate for both techniques. The results have been compared with the respective values of WITS key parameters derived from theoretical analysis

Non-Conforming Behavior Detection for VoIP-Based Network Systems

This work proposes a detection scheme that identifies non-conforming behavior in a VoIP network, based on statistical analysis and hypothesis testing. VoIP networks are a popular, low-cost alternative for telephony that offer lower rates especially for long-distance calls. Other services such as FollowMe, enhance the traditional voice-oriented nature of these networks. Consequently several security concerns such as fraud calls, are related to the high availability required by a VoIP system. Fraud calls account for an average loss of 3% to 5% of the operators’ revenue. Thus the detection and prevention of the users from behaving in a non-conforming way, becomes crucial. A trustworthy and secure management and billing scheme is necessary, to guarantee the proper operation. This work proposes a behavioral control scheme for the VoIP clients. An initial training period defines the normal behavior. Then statistical analysis and t-testing is employed to extract results regarding the users’ profiles, with pre-defined confidence levels. A Buffer zone creates a more flexible decision-making process. The scheme also offers the ability to configure its parameters, in order to react appropriately under different network conditions and detect possible misuses. It is implemented and its rational operation is verified via several simulation scenarios

Detection of low prevalence somatic mutations in solid tumors with ultra-deep targeted sequencing

Ultra-deep targeted sequencing (UDT-Seq) can identify subclonal somatic mutations in tumor samples. Early assays' limited breadth and depth restrict their clinical utility. Here, we target 71 kb of mutational hotspots in 42 cancer genes. We present novel methods enhancing both laboratory workflow and mutation detection. We evaluate UDT-Seq true sensitivity and specificity (> 94% and > 99%, respectively) for low prevalence mutations in a mixing experiment and demonstrate its utility using six tumor samples. With an improved performance when run on the Illumina Miseq, the UDT-Seq assay is well suited for clinical applications to guide therapy and study clonal selection in heterogeneous samples

SCAMP:standardised, concentrated, additional macronutrients, parenteral nutrition in very preterm infants: a phase IV randomised, controlled exploratory study of macronutrient intake, growth and other aspects of neonatal care

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Infants born <29 weeks gestation are at high risk of neurocognitive disability. Early postnatal growth failure, particularly head growth, is an important and potentially reversible risk factor for impaired neurodevelopmental outcome. Inadequate nutrition is a major factor in this postnatal growth failure, optimal protein and calorie (macronutrient) intakes are rarely achieved, especially in the first week. Infants <29 weeks are dependent on parenteral nutrition for the bulk of their nutrient needs for the first 2-3 weeks of life to allow gut adaptation to milk digestion. The prescription, formulation and administration of neonatal parenteral nutrition is critical to achieving optimal protein and calorie intake but has received little scientific evaluation. Current neonatal parenteral nutrition regimens often rely on individualised prescription to manage the labile, unpredictable biochemical and metabolic control characteristic of the early neonatal period. Individualised prescription frequently fails to translate into optimal macronutrient delivery. We have previously shown that a standardised, concentrated neonatal parenteral nutrition regimen can optimise macronutrient intake.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>We propose a single centre, randomised controlled exploratory trial of two standardised, concentrated neonatal parenteral nutrition regimens comparing a standard macronutrient content (maximum protein 2.8 g/kg/day; lipid 2.8 g/kg/day, dextrose 10%) with a higher macronutrient content (maximum protein 3.8 g/kg/day; lipid 3.8 g/kg/day, dextrose 12%) over the first 28 days of life. 150 infants 24-28 completed weeks gestation and birthweight <1200 g will be recruited. The primary outcome will be head growth velocity in the first 28 days of life. Secondary outcomes will include a) auxological data between birth and 36 weeks corrected gestational age b) actual macronutrient intake in first 28 days c) biomarkers of biochemical and metabolic tolerance d) infection biomarkers and other intravascular line complications e) incidence of major complications of prematurity including mortality f) neurodevelopmental outcome at 2 years corrected gestational age</p> <p>Trial registration</p> <p>Current controlled trials: <a href="http://www.controlled-trials.com/ISRCTN76597892">ISRCTN76597892</a>; EudraCT Number: 2008-008899-14</p

The effects of caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee on sex hormone-binding globulin and endogenous sex hormone levels: A randomized controlled trial

10.1186/1475-2891-11-86Nutrition Journal111

Attitudes towards risk-reducing early salpingectomy with delayed oophorectomy for ovarian cancer prevention:a cohort study

Objective: To determine risk-reducing early salpingectomy and delayed oophorectomy (RRESDO) acceptability and effect of surgical prevention on menopausal sequelae/satisfaction/regret in women at increased ovarian cancer (OC) risk. Design: Multicentre, cohort, questionnaire study (IRSCTN:12310993). Setting: United Kingdom (UK). Population: UK women without OC ≥18 years, at increased OC risk, with/without previous RRSO, ascertained through specialist familial cancer/genetic clinics and BRCA support groups. Methods: Participants completed a 39-item questionnaire. Baseline characteristics were described using descriptive statistics. Logistic/linear regression models analysed the impact of variables on RRESDO acceptability and health outcomes. Main outcomes: RRESDO acceptability, menopausal sequelae, satisfaction/regret. Results: In all, 346 of 683 participants underwent risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO). Of premenopausal women who had not undergone RRSO, 69.1% (181/262) found it acceptable to participate in a research study offering RRESDO. Premenopausal women concerned about sexual dysfunction were more likely to find RRESDO acceptable (odds ratio [OR] = 2.9, 95% CI 1.2–7.7, P = 0.025). Women experiencing sexual dysfunction after premenopausal RRSO were more likely to find RRESDO acceptable in retrospect (OR = 5.3, 95% CI 1.2–27.5, P < 0.031). In all, 88.8% (143/161) premenopausal and 95.2% (80/84) postmenopausal women who underwent RRSO, respectively, were satisfied with their decision, whereas 9.4% (15/160) premenopausal and 1.2% (1/81) postmenopausal women who underwent RRSO regretted their decision. HRT uptake in premenopausal individuals without breast cancer (BC) was 74.1% (80/108). HRT use did not significantly affect satisfaction/regret levels but did reduce symptoms of vaginal dryness (OR = 0.4, 95% CI 0.2–0.9, P = 0.025). Conclusion: Data show high RRESDO acceptability, particularly in women concerned about sexual dysfunction. Although RRSO satisfaction remains high, regret rates are much higher for premenopausal women than for postmenopausal women. HRT use following premenopausal RRSO does not increase satisfaction but does reduce vaginal dryness. Tweetable abstract: RRESDO has high acceptability among premenopausal women at increased ovarian cancer risk, particularly those concerned about sexual dysfunction.Peer reviewe