Cross-Layer Combining of Adaptive Modulation and Truncated ARQ in Multichannel Beamforming MIMO Systems

In this study the authors provide a cross-layer design of multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) systems, with the aim to maximize spectral efficiency. We consider MIMO systems based on a multichannel beamforming technique that combines an adaptive modulation and truncated automatic repeat request procedures, for the case of Rayleigh fading propagation and imperfect channel state information. Closed-form expressions for the average spectral efficiency and the packet loss rate are derived for arbitrary eigenchannel of multichannel beamforming systems, with any number of receiving and transmitting antennas. An analytical expression for the average time during which a particular constellation is used continuously, is also derived. We propose the method based on the optimization of the target packet error rate and the maximum number of retransmissions that outperforms the existing cross-layer combining procedures. Furthermore, we develop the numerical algorithm for optimization of the eigenchannel power allocation. The proposed cross-layer design results in higher average spectral efficiency, reduced maximum delay and increased energy efficiency. The analytical results are validated by Monte Carlo simulation

Accurate modelling of small-scale linear ion trap operating mode using He buffer gas to improve sensitivity and resolution for in-the-field mass spectrometry

Improved sensitivity and resolution of a small-scale linear ion trap is observed using He buffer.</p

Volatolomics: A broad area of experimentation

Chemical analysis (detection and monitoring) of compounds associated with the metabolic activities of an organism is at the cutting edge of science. Volatile metabolomics (volatolomics) are applied in a broad range of applications including: biomedical research (e.g. disease diagnostic tools, personalized healthcare and nutrition, etc.), toxicological analysis (e.g. exposure tool to environmental pollutants, toxic and hazardous chemical environments, industrial accidents, etc.), molecular communications, forensics, safety and security (e.g. search and rescue operations). In the present review paper, an overview of recent advances and applications of volatolomics will be given. The main focus will be on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) originating from biological secretions of various organisms (e.g. microorganisms, insects, plants, humans) and resulting fusion of chemical information. Bench-top and portable or field-deployable technologies-systems will also be presented and discussed

Teacher Candidates’ Emerging Perspectives on Trauma Informed Teaching

A transdisciplinary team of candidates with teacher and social work educators describe their perspectives of trauma-informed teaching and intentions to use evidence-based practices in classrooms. We studied classroom management from a trauma-informed perspective in the first course in the program, then reflected back on these through a professional learning community created to intentionally focus on trauma informed teaching. We highlight findings around candidates’ perspectives and specific actions they attended to in order to incorporate those practices

Optimised quadrupole mass spectrometer with a dual filter analyser for in-field chemical sniffing of volatile organic compounds

We report a novel portable 17 kg system based on a quadrupole mass spectrometer (QMS) with an electronic power consumption of 24 W. The system can be used for the in-field identification of gases and volatile/semivolatile organic compounds (VOCs/SVOCs). The mass analyser is a custom-made quadrupole mass filter with a Brubaker pre-filter that gives a mass range of m/z 1-500. It is an upgrade of the previous m/z 1-200 range triple filter analyser system. Analyser design was optimized using 3D numerical simulations as a performance trade-off between single and triple filter designs while maintaining high sensitivity and ease of integration. This also required enhanced design of the electronic control unit (ECU) compared to the previous triple filter ECU designs with lower power consumption, size, weight and cost of the overall system. Another major ECU improvement includes high stability of DC voltage control and ultra-low RF drift, which is important for in-field applications that require stable mass peaks for reliable quantitative analysis and continuous monitoring. Experimental results are presented for the perfluorotributylamine (PFTBA) calibrant and acetone to assess the functionality of the instrument. Performance comparison between the dual and triple filter quadrupole analysers has also been done. Mass spectra are given for methyl benzoate (cocaine simulant), piperidine (phencyclidine simulant), cyclohexanone (C4 simulant) and 2-nitrotoluene (TNT simulant) to assess potential capability for the identification of threat compounds. All spectral results show good correlation with the NIST library mass spectra with unit resolution obtained for spectral peaks within a m/z 1-400 mass range

Current research into brain barriers and the delivery of therapeutics for neurological diseases: a report on CNS barrier congress London, UK, 2017.

This is a report on the CNS barrier congress held in London, UK, March 22-23rd 2017 and sponsored by Kisaco Research Ltd. The two 1-day sessions were chaired by John Greenwood and Margareta Hammarlund-Udenaes, respectively, and each session ended with a discussion led by the chair. Speakers consisted of invited academic researchers studying the brain barriers in relation to neurological diseases and industry researchers studying new methods to deliver therapeutics to treat neurological diseases. We include here brief reports from the speakers

Extracellular matrix and growth factor engineering for controlled angiogenesis in regenerative medicine

Blood vessel growth plays a key role in regenerative medicine, both to restore blood supply to ischemic tissues and to ensure rapid vascularization of clinical-size tissue-engineered grafts. For example, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is the master regulator of physiological blood vessel growth and is one of the main molecular targets of therapeutic angiogenesis approaches. However, angiogenesis is a complex process and there is a need to develop rational therapeutic strategies based on a firm understanding of basic vascular biology principles, as evidenced by the disappointing results of initial clinical trials of angiogenic factor delivery. In particular, the spatial localization of angiogenic signals in the extracellular matrix (ECM) is crucial to ensure the proper assembly and maturation of new vascular structures. Here, we discuss the therapeutic implications of matrix interactions of angiogenic factors, with a special emphasis on VEGF, as well as provide an overview of current approaches, based on protein and biomaterial engineering that mimic the regulatory functions of ECM to optimize the signaling microenvironment of vascular growth factors

CE0906

Use the URI link below to search the Marine Institute Data Discovery Catalogue for datasets relevant to this report.Acoustic surveys on the blue whiting (Micromesistius poutassou) stock in the north east Atlantic have been carried out by the Institute of Marine Research (IMR), Norway since the early 1970s. In the early 1980s a coordinated acoustic survey approach was adopted, with both Russia and Norway participating to estimate the size of this migratory stock within its key spawning grounds. Since 2004, the coordinated survey program has expanded and to include vessels from the EU (Ireland and the Netherlands) and the Faroes. Due to the highly migratory nature of the stock a large geographical area has to be surveyed. Spawning takes place from January through to April along the shelf break and offshore Banks including the Rosemary, Hatton and Rockall Banks. Peak spawning occurs between mid- March and mid April and acoustic surveys are timed to occur during this phase. To facilitate a more coordinated spatio-temporal approach to the survey, participating countries meet annually to discuss survey methods and define target areas at the ICES led Planning Group of Northern Pelagic Ecosystem Surveys (PGNAPES). Data from the annual spawning stock abundance survey (March/April, western waters), juvenile surveys (May, Norwegian Sea and January-March, Barents Sea trawl survey) and commercial landings data are presented annually at the ICES Working Group of Widely Distributed Stocks (WGWDS). Ultimately, combined data inputs into the management and catch advice for this international cross boundary stock. The 2009 survey was part of an International collaborative survey using the vessels RV Celtic Explorer (Ireland), RV Fridtjof Nansen (Russia), RV Tridens (Netherlands) and the RV Magnus Heinason (Faroes) and the FV Brennholm (Norwegian commercial charter). The total combined area coverage in 2009 extended from the Faroe Islands in the north (62°N) to south of Ireland (51.30°N), with east -west extension from 5°-18° W. Combined area coverage included shelf break areas (>250m) and large bathymetric features including the slope areas of the Porcupine, Rockall and Hatton Banks. The Irish component of the survey was made up of transects covering 2,545nmi (nautical miles) covering the slope areas (>250m) of the Hebrides shelf, the eastern fringes of the Rockall Bank, the Rockall Trough and the southern slopes of the Hatton Bank. This survey represents the 6th survey in the Irish time series