Achievable Outage Rates In Cognitive Radio Networks under Imperfect Spectrum Sensing

In this paper, we aim at deriving the outage rates achieved by the primary user due spectrum sensing in a cognitive radio network, that we call sensing-induced primary outage rates. To reach this goal, in the first step, instead of classical spectrum sensing techniques that evaluate sensing performance only based on correct detection of the presence of the primary user’s signal, we propose a modified framework that also takes into account the correct detection of the absence of primary user’s signal for spectrum sensing performance evaluation. In a second step, we derive the information rates achieved by the coexistence of a primary and a cognitive network. In the last step, assuming slow fading sensing channels, we derive the sensing-induced primary outage rates, i.e., outage rates achieved by the primary network in the presence of a CR with imperfect spectrum sensing, characterized by a given miss-detection probability. Numerical results show that the proposed spectrum sensing outperforms conventional spectrum sensing techniques in terms of primary signal outage rates and total achievable throughputs, without any increase in the cognitive radio complexity

Preparation, in vitro and in vivo evaluation of PLGA/Chitosan based nano-complex as a novel insulin delivery formulation

The smart self-regulated drug delivery systems for insulin administration are desirable to achieve glycemic control, and decrease the long-term micro- and macro vascular complications. In this study, we developed an injectable nano-complex formulation for closed-loop insulin delivery after subcutaneous administration and release of insulin in response to increased blood glucose levels. The nano-complex was prepared by mixing oppositely charged chitosan and PLGA nanoparticles. PLGA nanoparticles were prepared using double-emulsion solvent diffusion method, and were loaded with glucose oxidase (GOx) and catalase (CAT) enzymes. These negatively charged particles decrease micro-environmental pH, by gluconic acid production in the glucose molecules presence. Positively charged chitosan nanoparticles were prepared using ionic gelation method, and were loaded with insulin. These nanoparticles (NPs) released insulin by dissociation in acidic pH caused by the GOx activity. Following in vitro studies, in vivo evaluation of nano-complex formulations in streptozocin induced diabetic rats showed significant glycemic regulation up to 98 h after subcutaneous administration. © 2019 Elsevier B.V

Liquid Mixing in Thick-Slag-Covered Metallurgical Baths—Blending of Bath

Liquid mixing in bottom-blown, gas-stirred reactors has a significant impact on process efficiency and product quality. Cold physical models were used to simulate liquid bath mixing behavior covered with a thick slag layer. The dependence of blending time on specific energy input rate, slag height, and physical properties of metal and slag was studied. A new parameter, called the “effective bath height,” is defined as a function of the slag and metal thicknesses and their relative densities to develop a unified correlation for blending time of slag-covered baths and baths without slags. Furthermore, energy dissipation associated with an increase in interfacial area was evaluated