Combining kernel estimators in the uniform deconvolution problem

We construct a density estimator and an estimator of the distribution function in the uniform deconvolution model. The estimators are based on inversion formulas and kernel estimators of the density of the observations and its derivative. Asymptotic normality and the asymptotic biases are derived

Biomechanical Computed Tomography analysis (BCT) for clinical assessment of osteoporosis.

The surgeon general of the USA defines osteoporosis as "a skeletal disorder characterized by compromised bone strength, predisposing to an increased risk of fracture." Measuring bone strength, Biomechanical Computed Tomography analysis (BCT), namely, finite element analysis of a patient's clinical-resolution computed tomography (CT) scan, is now available in the USA as a Medicare screening benefit for osteoporosis diagnostic testing. Helping to address under-diagnosis of osteoporosis, BCT can be applied "opportunistically" to most existing CT scans that include the spine or hip regions and were previously obtained for an unrelated medical indication. For the BCT test, no modifications are required to standard clinical CT imaging protocols. The analysis provides measurements of bone strength as well as a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)-equivalent bone mineral density (BMD) T-score at the hip and a volumetric BMD of trabecular bone at the spine. Based on both the bone strength and BMD measurements, a physician can identify osteoporosis and assess fracture risk (high, increased, not increased), without needing confirmation by DXA. To help introduce BCT to clinicians and health care professionals, we describe in this review the currently available clinical implementation of the test (VirtuOst), its application for managing patients, and the underlying supporting evidence; we also discuss its main limitations and how its results can be interpreted clinically. Together, this body of evidence supports BCT as an accurate and convenient diagnostic test for osteoporosis in both sexes, particularly when used opportunistically for patients already with CT. Biomechanical Computed Tomography analysis (BCT) uses a patient's CT scan to measure both bone strength and bone mineral density at the hip or spine. Performing at least as well as DXA for both diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing fracture risk, BCT is particularly well-suited to "opportunistic" use for the patient without a recent DXA who is undergoing or has previously undergone CT testing (including hip or spine regions) for an unrelated medical condition

A multi-objective optimisation model for a general polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell system

This paper presents an optimisation model for a general polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell system Suitable for efficiency and size trade-offs investigation. Simulation of the model for a base case shows that for a given output power, a more efficient system is bigger and vice versa. Using the weighting method to perform a multi-objective optimisation, the Pareto sets were generated for different stack output powers. A Pareto set, presented as a plot of the optimal efficiency and area of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA), gives a quantitative description of the compromise between efficiency and size. Overall, our results indicate that, to make the most of the size-efficiency trade-off behaviour, the system must be operated at an efficiency of at least 40% but not more than 47%. Furthermore, the MEA area should be at least 3 cm(2) W-1 for the efficiency to be practically useful. Subject to the constraints imposed on the model, which are based on technical practicalities, a PEM fuel cell system such as the one presented in this work cannot operate at an efficiency above 54%. The results of this work, specifically the multi-objective model, will form a useful and practical basis for subsequent techno-economic studies for specific applications. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved

Parameter estimation for alpha-fractional bridges

Let alpha,T>0. We study the asymptotic properties of a least squares estimator for the parameter alpha of a fractional bridge defined as dX_t=-alpha*X_t/(T-t)dt+dB_t, with t in [0,T) and where B is a fractional Brownian motion of Hurst index H>1/2. Depending on the value of alpha, we prove that we may have strong consistency or not as t tends to T. When we have consistency, we obtain the rate of this convergence as well. Also, we compare our results to the (known) case where B is replaced by a standard Brownian motion W.Comment: 21 pages. To appear in the Festschrift in Honor of David Nualart, a volume to be published by Springer in the Proceedings in Mathematics Serie

Relating pore fabric geometry to acoustic and permeability anisotropy in Crab Orchard Sandstone: A laboratory study using magnetic ferrofluid

Pore fabric anisotropy is a common feature of many sedimentary rocks. In this paper we report results from a comparative study on the anisotropy of a porous sandstone (Crab Orchard) using anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS), acoustic wave velocity and fluid permeability techniques. Initially, we characterise the anisotropic pore fabric geometry by impregnating the sandstone with magnetic ferro-fluid and measuring its AMS. The results are used to guide subsequent measurements of the anisotropy of acoustic wave velocity and fluid permeability. These three independent measures of anisotropy are then directly compared. Results show strong positive correlation between the principal directions given from the AMS, velocity anisotropy and permeability anisotropy. Permeability parallel to the macroscopic crossbedding observed in the sandstone is 240% higher than that normal to it. P and S-wave velocity anisotropy and AMS show mean values of 19.1%, 4.8% and 3.8% respectively, reflecting the disparate physical properties measured

Thermoluminescence and optically stimulated luminescence of gamma-irradiated mineral zircon

Thermoluminescence (TL) manifested by gamma-irradiated mineral zircon has shown a strong TL peak at about 165 °C which is due to recombination of electrons and Dy3+ related shallow hole traps. After they have been removed by a short preheat we have observed two TL peaks at 300-320 °C and ≈420 °C, which are mainly due to recombination of electrons and Tb3+ related hole traps centres yielding its characteristic luminescence. The experimental results indicate that optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) is due to luminescent emission of Tb3+ ions and [SiO4]4– groups. The deep traps related to the 420 °C TL peak contribute to the Tb3+ related OSL. The deep traps related to the 300-320 °C TL peak contribute to OSL associated with the luminescent emission of [SiO4]4– groups.