In order to improve lesion localisation in small-bowel capsule endoscopy,a modified capsule design has been proposed incorporating localisation and-in theorystabilization capabilities.The proposed design consists of a...In order to improve lesion localisation in small-bowel capsule endoscopy,a modified capsule design has been proposed incorporating localisation and-in theorystabilization capabilities.The proposed design consists of a capsule fitted with protruding wheels attached to a spring-mechanism.This would act as a miniature odometer,leading to more accurate lesion localization information in relation to the onset of the investigation(spring expansion e.g.,pyloric opening).Furthermore,this capsule could allow stabilization of the recorded video as any erratic,non-forward movement through the gut is minimised.Three-dimensional(3-D)printing technology was used to build a capsule prototype.Thereafter,miniature wheels were also 3-D printed and mounted on a spring which was attached to conventional capsule endoscopes for the purpose of this proof-of-concept experiment.In vitro and ex vivo experiments with porcine small-bowel are presented herein.Further experiments have been scheduled.展开更多
To understand the deformational behaviours of geosynthetics-reinforced soil retaining walls(GRS RWs),a series of plane-strain shaking table tests was conducted on retaining wall models.The backfill of the models was m...To understand the deformational behaviours of geosynthetics-reinforced soil retaining walls(GRS RWs),a series of plane-strain shaking table tests was conducted on retaining wall models.The backfill of the models was made of poorly graded gravel.Deformations and strains in the gravelly backfill induced by seismic loading are recorded in real time,which are of importance to understand the seismic strength and stability of the GRS RW systems,as strain localisation development in the backfill and foundation is related to the degree of strength degradation of the system.In the present study,we aimed at quantifying the induced deformations of the GRS RW models due to shaking.Digital image correlation(DIC)technique was then employed to analyse and provide full-field deformation and motion images with the models.It is demonstrated that,unlike conventional contact devices that are yet limited to provide quantities of a singular and fixed location,DIC provides deformation and motion of the area of interests to reveal the evolution of localisation.展开更多
We study via numerical experiments the localisation property of an acoustic wave in a viscoelastic soft medium containing randomly-distributed air bubbles. The behaviours of the oscillation phases of bubbles are parti...We study via numerical experiments the localisation property of an acoustic wave in a viscoelastic soft medium containing randomly-distributed air bubbles. The behaviours of the oscillation phases of bubbles are particularly investigated in various cases for distinguishing efficiently the acoustic localisation from the effects of acoustic absorption caused by the viscosity of medium. The numerical results reveal the phenomenon of 'phase transition' characterized by an unusual collective oscillation of bubbles, which is an effective criterion to unambiguously identify the acoustic localisation in the presence of viscosity. Within the localisation region, the phenomenon of phase transition persists, and a remarkable decrease in the fluctuation of the oscillation phases of bubbles is observed. The localisation phenomenon will be impaired by the enhancement of the viscosity factors, and the extent to which the acoustic wave is localised may be determined by appropriately analyzing the values of the oscillation phases or the amount of reduction of the phase fluctuation. The results are particularly significant for the practical experiments in an attempt to observe the acoustic localisation in such a medium, which is in general subjected to the interference of the great ambiguity resulting from the effect of acoustic absorption.展开更多
The Dictyostelium discoideum AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) snfA subcellular localization was studied in AX2 and stable HPF strains by use of AMPK antipeptide antibody and goat anti-rabbit Alexa-Flour 488-conjuga...The Dictyostelium discoideum AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) snfA subcellular localization was studied in AX2 and stable HPF strains by use of AMPK antipeptide antibody and goat anti-rabbit Alexa-Flour 488-conjugated IgG antibody. The AMPK exhibited cytosolic localization patterns and uniform focalised concentrations in wild type and the strains alike. Constitutive activation and attenuation of the α subunit expression did not affect subcellular distribution of AMPK. However, snfA expression was more intense in strains in which AMPK was constitutively active compared with the AX2 but lesser in attenuation strains. The localisation of the snfA reinforced the putative standing that it had a plethora of cytoplasmic functions. Moreover, the oxidative cellular function would require a ubiquitous system and might coordinately regulate responses to metabolic requirements. Furthermore, the developmental phases of the life cycle would support the cytosolic localization;and since organelles were potentially reorganized or removed entirely during the transition from vegetative living to fruiting body morphology. This study provided insight into the subcellular distribution of AMPK in Dictyostelium discoideum. We demonstrated that AMPK localization was steady in AX2 and derived strains whether constitutively active or anti-sense inhibited depicting extreme genetic states.展开更多
The paper presents a computational model for elastic waves in a structured weld adjacent to the free surface of an elastic solid. The main emphasis is on the interaction of waves with the micro-structure of the weld. ...The paper presents a computational model for elastic waves in a structured weld adjacent to the free surface of an elastic solid. The main emphasis is on the interaction of waves with the micro-structure of the weld. Effects of localisation and channeling of waves are addressed. A model of a grain structure within the weld is also considered.展开更多
Shanghai’s modern architectural heritage in the 19^(th) and early 20^(th) centuries is an essential aspect of modern Chinese architectural history because of its outstanding characteristics and well-preserved conditi...Shanghai’s modern architectural heritage in the 19^(th) and early 20^(th) centuries is an essential aspect of modern Chinese architectural history because of its outstanding characteristics and well-preserved conditions.Modern Shanghai architecture was transformed by the importation of Western structural technologies and materials in addition to their forms and institutions.After 100 years of development since 1843,there were over 100 important buildings in the Bund area by 1943.These buildings were built in different periods using the best available structural technologies.This study focuses on the technological dimension of modern Shanghai architecture.Based on an architectural survey and a literature investigation of the Bund buildings,this study explores the evolution of modern structural technologies in Shanghai by analysing the Bund buildings’key structural factors.The influences of the localisation and implementation of Western architecture’s building technologies in Shanghai were also analysed,including time of importation,characteristics and integration of local craftsmanship and materials.This study focuses on the method and analyses of architectural technology history from not only technological and historical perspectives,but also a social sciences perspective.展开更多
The convergence of Internet of Things(IoT),vehicularad hoc network(VANET),and mobile ad hoc network relies on sensor networks to gather data from nodes or objects.These networks involve nodes,gateways,and anchors,oper...The convergence of Internet of Things(IoT),vehicularad hoc network(VANET),and mobile ad hoc network relies on sensor networks to gather data from nodes or objects.These networks involve nodes,gateways,and anchors,operating on limited battery power,mainly used in broadcasting.IoT applications,like healthcare,smart cities,and transportation,often need position data and face challenges in delay sensitivity.Localisation is important in ITS and VANETs,influencing autonomous vehicles,collision warning systems,and road information dissemination.A robust localisation system,often combining GPS with techniques like Dead Reckoning and Image/Video Localisation,is essential for accuracy and security.Artificial intelligence(AI)integration,particularly in machine learning,enhances indoor wireless localisation effectiveness.Advancements in wireless communication(WSN,IoT,and massive MIMO)transform dense environments into programmable entities,but pose challenges in aligning self‐learning AI with sensor tech for accuracy and budget considerations.We seek original research on sensor localisation,fusion,protocols,and positioning algorithms,inviting contributions from industry and academia to address these evolving challenges.展开更多
BACKGROUND Neoadjuvant/perioperative chemotherapy is the recommended treatment for advanced stages of gastric cancer(>T2,N+)before tumour resection in many European guidelines.However,there is no consensus as to wh...BACKGROUND Neoadjuvant/perioperative chemotherapy is the recommended treatment for advanced stages of gastric cancer(>T2,N+)before tumour resection in many European guidelines.However,there is no consensus as to whether perioperative chemotherapy is as effective in distal as in proximal tumours,in addition to a relevant uncertainty concerning appropriate treatment modalities for elderly patients.AIM To investigate the role of perioperative chemotherapy in advanced gastric cancer in patients from a German tertiary clinic with respect to efficacy,localisation,and age.METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of 158 patients from our clinic with adenocarcinoma of the stomach or the gastroesophageal junction who underwent resection between 2008 and 2016.The data were evaluated particularly in relation to patient age,tumour site,and perioperative therapy.RESULTS Administration of perioperative chemotherapy did not lead to a significant survival advantage in our study population.The 5-year survival rates were 40%for patients who received perioperative chemotherapy and 29%for the group without perioperative chemotherapy(P=0.125).Our patients were on average distinctly older than patients in most of the published randomised controlled trials.Patients elder than 75 years received perioperative chemotherapy far less frequently.Patients with a proximal tumour received perioperative chemotherapy much more often.CONCLUSION This analysis reconfirms our previous data concerning the effectiveness of perioperative chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer.There is reasonable doubt that the quality of the existing randomized controlled trials is sufficient to generally justify perioperative chemotherapy in patients with advanced gastric cancer independent of tumour localization or age.展开更多
Elderly inhabitants have a strong influence to healthcare facilities globally in the last few years as a result of the high demand on the healthcare services and the gap between the services provided by caregivers and...Elderly inhabitants have a strong influence to healthcare facilities globally in the last few years as a result of the high demand on the healthcare services and the gap between the services provided by caregivers and the increasing number of older people. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technologies have been increasingly adopted in smart homes and used widely for indoor localisation. These technologies have been benefiting to healthcare domain where they improve the quality of services delivering by healthcare providers. This article presents a comprehensive review on RFID systems and healthcare research works in smart homes. We also compare RFID-based solutions in healthcare and distinguish challenges of smart home technologies in indoor environment. We also discuss research challenges related to Activity in Daily Living (ADL) in smart homes for wellbeing.展开更多
Deep repository in geological formations is the preferential solution considered in many countries to manage high-level nuclear wastes. In Switzerland, the Opalinus Clay is a candidate host rock. In this context, in s...Deep repository in geological formations is the preferential solution considered in many countries to manage high-level nuclear wastes. In Switzerland, the Opalinus Clay is a candidate host rock. In this context, in situ and laboratory tests are conducted on Opalinus Clay to demonstrate the feasibility of deep disposal in this argillaceous formation. This paper presents a constitutive model able to fit the experimental data obtained from some triaxial tests conducted by Jahns(2013) on cores from borehole Schlattingen SLA-1. The elasto-plastic behaviour of Opalinus Clay is reproduced thanks to a DruckerPrager model, taking into account the anisotropy behaviour of this sedimentary rock. The objective is to employ a single set of parameters representative of the material. In a second version of the model, the stress-dependence of the elastic properties and damage are taken into account. Finally, the parameters calibrated with experimental tests are used to simulate the excavation of a gallery with a second gradient approach.展开更多
The profile equations of geometric optics are described in a form invariant under the natural transformations of first order systems of partial differential equations. This allows us to prove that various strategies f...The profile equations of geometric optics are described in a form invariant under the natural transformations of first order systems of partial differential equations. This allows us to prove that various strategies for computing profile equations are equivalent. We prove that if L generates an evolution on L2 the same is true of the profile equations. We prove that the characteristic polynomial of the profile equations is the localization of the characteristic polynomial of the background operator at (y, dφ(y)) where φ is the background phase. We prove that the propagation cones of the profile equations are subsets of the propagation cones of the background operator.展开更多
Saudi Arabia is currently in a transformation phase, which has resulted in a significant demand for healthcare services in the country’s healthcare system to provide better healthcare facilities for the fast-growing ...Saudi Arabia is currently in a transformation phase, which has resulted in a significant demand for healthcare services in the country’s healthcare system to provide better healthcare facilities for the fast-growing population and the growing elderly population. The lack of trained healthcare professionals and strong dependence on foreign labour are important aspects for policymakers to address, thus requiring Human Resource Development (HRD) initiatives to provide adequate learning and competence to a huge reserve of healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia. In this regard, this paper contributes to Saudi Arabian health care by reporting healthcare professionals’ experiences of working in the Saudi health sector under the newly proposed Vision 2030 and NTP 2020 interventions in the HRD sphere of healthcare. The Vision 2030 is a testimony to a revolutionary step taken by the Government to reform the Saudi healthcare sector and provide HRD opportunities.展开更多
In this paper, we propose a novel idea for improvement performances of the leader M-BCJR algorithm functioning in low complexity. The basic idea consists to localize error instant possibility, and then increase the co...In this paper, we propose a novel idea for improvement performances of the leader M-BCJR algorithm functioning in low complexity. The basic idea consists to localize error instant possibility, and then increase the complexity around this moment. We also propose an easy and important idea for early localisation of erroneous moments. We call this new algorithm Z-MAP. The simulations show that the improvement of performances is significant. The performances of Z-MAP turbo decoding are so close to full MAP-BCJR performances. Furthermore, the complexity is the same that of the M-BCJR. So, Z-MAP is an optimal version of M-BCJR algorithm.展开更多
This article gives an elementary account of the recently proposed theory of spontaneous quantum gravity. It is argued that a viable quantum theory of gravity should be falsifiable, and hence it should dynamically expl...This article gives an elementary account of the recently proposed theory of spontaneous quantum gravity. It is argued that a viable quantum theory of gravity should be falsifiable, and hence it should dynamically explain the observed absence of quantum superpositions of space-time geometries in its classical limit.展开更多
Vascular targeted photochemotherapy(VTP) holds promise as a novel strategy of the focal treatment of localised prostate cancer(LPCa). It is convenient to perform, minimally invasive and can be conduct in ambulatory co...Vascular targeted photochemotherapy(VTP) holds promise as a novel strategy of the focal treatment of localised prostate cancer(LPCa). It is convenient to perform, minimally invasive and can be conduct in ambulatory conditions. In this review, methodologic aspects of padoporfin- and padeliporfin-mediated VTP and its clinical application in focal treatment of LPCa as well as future perspective of this method were presented. Physicochemical and pharmacokinetic parameters of padoporphin and padeliporfin using as VTP photosensitizers were described, as well as methodologic question of radiation delivery and dosimetry, and oxygen monitoring in cancer tissue in context of VTP safety and efficiency of LPCa focal therapy were discussed. The results of clinical trials concerning application of padoporfin- and padeliporfin-mediated VTP in LPCa were also presented. The future of VTP is development of protocols, founded on the realtime feedback and rules-based approach to make this strategy a standard procedure in LPCa treatment. To evaluate clinical potential of this procedure, a costeffectiveness analysis is also necessary.展开更多
Visual simultaneous localisation and mapping(vSLAM)finds applications for indoor and outdoor navigation that routinely subjects it to visual complexities,particularly mirror reflections.The effect of mirror presence(t...Visual simultaneous localisation and mapping(vSLAM)finds applications for indoor and outdoor navigation that routinely subjects it to visual complexities,particularly mirror reflections.The effect of mirror presence(time visible and its average size in the frame)was hypothesised to impact localisation and mapping performance,with systems using direct techniques expected to perform worse.Thus,a dataset,MirrEnv,of image sequences recorded in mirror environments,was collected,and used to evaluate the performance of existing representative methods.RGBD ORB-SLAM3 and BundleFusion appear to show moderate degradation of absolute trajectory error with increasing mirror duration,whilst the remaining results did not show significantly degraded localisation performance.The mesh maps generated proved to be very inaccurate,with real and virtual reflections colliding in the reconstructions.A discussion is given of the likely sources of error and robustness in mirror environments,outlining future directions for validating and improving vSLAM performance in the presence of planar mirrors.The MirrEnv dataset is available at https://doi.org/10.17035/d.2023.0292477898.展开更多
Slash pine(Pinus elliottii Engelm.var.elliottii)is a resin-producing species grown worldwide for significant economic benefits for wood production.Resin tapping cre-ates a carbon sink at the expense of carbon allocati...Slash pine(Pinus elliottii Engelm.var.elliottii)is a resin-producing species grown worldwide for significant economic benefits for wood production.Resin tapping cre-ates a carbon sink at the expense of carbon allocation for growth and consequently,wood production may be reduced.Non-structural carbohydrates comprising starch and sugars stored in plant organs,may serve as intermediate pools between assimilation and utilisation.However,the effect of resin tapping between tree growth and non-structural carbo-hydrates is not well understood.This study investigated(1)the effects of resin tapping on radial growth,(2)the effects of resin tapping on non-structural carbohydrate pools in different compartments,and(3)the feasibility of resin pro-duction without disruption of tree growth.Twenty one-year-old slash pines were subjected to resin tapping over two suc-cessive years.Non-structural carbohydrate concentrations in needles,branches,stem phloem,and roots of tapped and untapped trees in summer and winter were determined after the second year of resin harvest.The results showed that tapping had no significant effects on annual increments.Starch was the dominant non-structural carbohydrate frac-tion,regardless of tissues and season,and constituted up to 99%of the total non-structural carbohydrates in the phloem and roots.Glucose and fructose were the dominant sugars;sucrose was negligible.Compared with the controls,tapped trees showed 26%lower non-structural carbohydrate concen-tration in the phloem above the tapping wound in summer,which was attributable to the decreased abundance of starch,glucose,fructose,and sucrose.In winter,the altered non-structural carbohydrate profiles in the phloem above the tap-ping wounding were minimised as a result of recovery of the sugar concentrations.In contrast to free sugars,which accu-mulated substantially in needles and branches during winter,starch was enriched in the phloem,roots,and current-year needles.The results provide evidence for a localised effect of resin tapping,and highlight the observation that resin extrac-tion does not always cause a sacrifice in wood growth under a moderate resin-tapping intensity in slash pine plantations.展开更多
Silicon quantum dots fabricated by nanosecond pulsed laser in nitrogen, oxygen or air atmosphere have enhanced photoluminescence (PL) emission with the stimulated emission observed at about 700 nm. It is difficult t...Silicon quantum dots fabricated by nanosecond pulsed laser in nitrogen, oxygen or air atmosphere have enhanced photoluminescence (PL) emission with the stimulated emission observed at about 700 nm. It is difficult to distinguish between the photoluminescence peaks emitted from samples prepared in different atmospheres. The reason for the appearance of similar peaks may be the similar distribution of the localised states in the gap for different samples when silicon dangling bonds of quantum dots are passivated by nitrogen or oxygen. It is revealed that both the kind and the density of passivated bonds on quantum dot surface prepared in oxygen or nitrogen have a strong influence on the enhancement of PL emission.展开更多
We investigate the relationship between the transmission and the layer distance of double-layer gold slit arrays by using the finite-difference time-domain method. The results show that the transmission properties can...We investigate the relationship between the transmission and the layer distance of double-layer gold slit arrays by using the finite-difference time-domain method. The results show that the transmission properties can be influenced strongly by layer distance. We attribute the two types of resonant modes to surface plasmon resonance and the localised waveguide resonance. We find that the localised waveguide transmission peak redshifts and becomes broader with increasing layer distance D. We also describe and explain the splitting, shift, and degeneration of the surface plasmon resonant transmission peak theoretically. In addition, to clarify the physical mechanism of the transmission behaviours, we analyse the distributions of electric field and total energy for the three transmission peaks with distance D = 45 nm for the double-layer system. Light transporting behaviours are mostly concentrated in the region of the slits as well as the interspaces of the two layers, and for different resonant wavelengths the electric field and energy distributions are different. It is expected that the results obtained here will be helpful for designing subwavelength metallic grating devices.展开更多
Independent component analysis(ICA)is used to study the multiscale localised modes of streamwise velocity fluctuations in turbulent channel flows.ICA aims to decompose signals into independent modes,which may induce s...Independent component analysis(ICA)is used to study the multiscale localised modes of streamwise velocity fluctuations in turbulent channel flows.ICA aims to decompose signals into independent modes,which may induce spatially localised objects.The height and size are defined to quantify the spatial position and extension of these ICA modes,respectively.In contrast to spatially extended proper orthogonal decomposition(POD)modes,ICA modes are typically localised in space,and the energy of some modes is distributed across the near-wall region.The sizes of ICA modes are multiscale and are approximately proportional to their heights.ICA modes can also help to reconstruct the statistics of turbulence,particularly the third-order moment of velocity fluctuations,which is related to the strongest Reynolds shear-stressproducing events.The results reported in this paper indicate that the ICA method may connect statistical descriptions and structural descriptions of turbulence.展开更多
基金Supported by SynMed UK related to this workDr.Koulaouzidis A has also received lecture honoraria from Dr Falk PharmaUnited kingdom
文摘In order to improve lesion localisation in small-bowel capsule endoscopy,a modified capsule design has been proposed incorporating localisation and-in theorystabilization capabilities.The proposed design consists of a capsule fitted with protruding wheels attached to a spring-mechanism.This would act as a miniature odometer,leading to more accurate lesion localization information in relation to the onset of the investigation(spring expansion e.g.,pyloric opening).Furthermore,this capsule could allow stabilization of the recorded video as any erratic,non-forward movement through the gut is minimised.Three-dimensional(3-D)printing technology was used to build a capsule prototype.Thereafter,miniature wheels were also 3-D printed and mounted on a spring which was attached to conventional capsule endoscopes for the purpose of this proof-of-concept experiment.In vitro and ex vivo experiments with porcine small-bowel are presented herein.Further experiments have been scheduled.
基金the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science and their financial support through the JSPS Fellowship Programme to conduct research activities at the University of Tokyo.
文摘To understand the deformational behaviours of geosynthetics-reinforced soil retaining walls(GRS RWs),a series of plane-strain shaking table tests was conducted on retaining wall models.The backfill of the models was made of poorly graded gravel.Deformations and strains in the gravelly backfill induced by seismic loading are recorded in real time,which are of importance to understand the seismic strength and stability of the GRS RW systems,as strain localisation development in the backfill and foundation is related to the degree of strength degradation of the system.In the present study,we aimed at quantifying the induced deformations of the GRS RW models due to shaking.Digital image correlation(DIC)technique was then employed to analyse and provide full-field deformation and motion images with the models.It is demonstrated that,unlike conventional contact devices that are yet limited to provide quantities of a singular and fixed location,DIC provides deformation and motion of the area of interests to reveal the evolution of localisation.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos.10804050 and 10874086)the Ministry of Education of China (Grant Nos.20060284035 and 705017)
文摘We study via numerical experiments the localisation property of an acoustic wave in a viscoelastic soft medium containing randomly-distributed air bubbles. The behaviours of the oscillation phases of bubbles are particularly investigated in various cases for distinguishing efficiently the acoustic localisation from the effects of acoustic absorption caused by the viscosity of medium. The numerical results reveal the phenomenon of 'phase transition' characterized by an unusual collective oscillation of bubbles, which is an effective criterion to unambiguously identify the acoustic localisation in the presence of viscosity. Within the localisation region, the phenomenon of phase transition persists, and a remarkable decrease in the fluctuation of the oscillation phases of bubbles is observed. The localisation phenomenon will be impaired by the enhancement of the viscosity factors, and the extent to which the acoustic wave is localised may be determined by appropriately analyzing the values of the oscillation phases or the amount of reduction of the phase fluctuation. The results are particularly significant for the practical experiments in an attempt to observe the acoustic localisation in such a medium, which is in general subjected to the interference of the great ambiguity resulting from the effect of acoustic absorption.
文摘The Dictyostelium discoideum AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) snfA subcellular localization was studied in AX2 and stable HPF strains by use of AMPK antipeptide antibody and goat anti-rabbit Alexa-Flour 488-conjugated IgG antibody. The AMPK exhibited cytosolic localization patterns and uniform focalised concentrations in wild type and the strains alike. Constitutive activation and attenuation of the α subunit expression did not affect subcellular distribution of AMPK. However, snfA expression was more intense in strains in which AMPK was constitutively active compared with the AX2 but lesser in attenuation strains. The localisation of the snfA reinforced the putative standing that it had a plethora of cytoplasmic functions. Moreover, the oxidative cellular function would require a ubiquitous system and might coordinately regulate responses to metabolic requirements. Furthermore, the developmental phases of the life cycle would support the cytosolic localization;and since organelles were potentially reorganized or removed entirely during the transition from vegetative living to fruiting body morphology. This study provided insight into the subcellular distribution of AMPK in Dictyostelium discoideum. We demonstrated that AMPK localization was steady in AX2 and derived strains whether constitutively active or anti-sense inhibited depicting extreme genetic states.
基金supported by a scholarship funded by Serco Technical Assurance Services
文摘The paper presents a computational model for elastic waves in a structured weld adjacent to the free surface of an elastic solid. The main emphasis is on the interaction of waves with the micro-structure of the weld. Effects of localisation and channeling of waves are addressed. A model of a grain structure within the weld is also considered.
文摘Shanghai’s modern architectural heritage in the 19^(th) and early 20^(th) centuries is an essential aspect of modern Chinese architectural history because of its outstanding characteristics and well-preserved conditions.Modern Shanghai architecture was transformed by the importation of Western structural technologies and materials in addition to their forms and institutions.After 100 years of development since 1843,there were over 100 important buildings in the Bund area by 1943.These buildings were built in different periods using the best available structural technologies.This study focuses on the technological dimension of modern Shanghai architecture.Based on an architectural survey and a literature investigation of the Bund buildings,this study explores the evolution of modern structural technologies in Shanghai by analysing the Bund buildings’key structural factors.The influences of the localisation and implementation of Western architecture’s building technologies in Shanghai were also analysed,including time of importation,characteristics and integration of local craftsmanship and materials.This study focuses on the method and analyses of architectural technology history from not only technological and historical perspectives,but also a social sciences perspective.
文摘The convergence of Internet of Things(IoT),vehicularad hoc network(VANET),and mobile ad hoc network relies on sensor networks to gather data from nodes or objects.These networks involve nodes,gateways,and anchors,operating on limited battery power,mainly used in broadcasting.IoT applications,like healthcare,smart cities,and transportation,often need position data and face challenges in delay sensitivity.Localisation is important in ITS and VANETs,influencing autonomous vehicles,collision warning systems,and road information dissemination.A robust localisation system,often combining GPS with techniques like Dead Reckoning and Image/Video Localisation,is essential for accuracy and security.Artificial intelligence(AI)integration,particularly in machine learning,enhances indoor wireless localisation effectiveness.Advancements in wireless communication(WSN,IoT,and massive MIMO)transform dense environments into programmable entities,but pose challenges in aligning self‐learning AI with sensor tech for accuracy and budget considerations.We seek original research on sensor localisation,fusion,protocols,and positioning algorithms,inviting contributions from industry and academia to address these evolving challenges.
文摘BACKGROUND Neoadjuvant/perioperative chemotherapy is the recommended treatment for advanced stages of gastric cancer(>T2,N+)before tumour resection in many European guidelines.However,there is no consensus as to whether perioperative chemotherapy is as effective in distal as in proximal tumours,in addition to a relevant uncertainty concerning appropriate treatment modalities for elderly patients.AIM To investigate the role of perioperative chemotherapy in advanced gastric cancer in patients from a German tertiary clinic with respect to efficacy,localisation,and age.METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of 158 patients from our clinic with adenocarcinoma of the stomach or the gastroesophageal junction who underwent resection between 2008 and 2016.The data were evaluated particularly in relation to patient age,tumour site,and perioperative therapy.RESULTS Administration of perioperative chemotherapy did not lead to a significant survival advantage in our study population.The 5-year survival rates were 40%for patients who received perioperative chemotherapy and 29%for the group without perioperative chemotherapy(P=0.125).Our patients were on average distinctly older than patients in most of the published randomised controlled trials.Patients elder than 75 years received perioperative chemotherapy far less frequently.Patients with a proximal tumour received perioperative chemotherapy much more often.CONCLUSION This analysis reconfirms our previous data concerning the effectiveness of perioperative chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer.There is reasonable doubt that the quality of the existing randomized controlled trials is sufficient to generally justify perioperative chemotherapy in patients with advanced gastric cancer independent of tumour localization or age.
文摘Elderly inhabitants have a strong influence to healthcare facilities globally in the last few years as a result of the high demand on the healthcare services and the gap between the services provided by caregivers and the increasing number of older people. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technologies have been increasingly adopted in smart homes and used widely for indoor localisation. These technologies have been benefiting to healthcare domain where they improve the quality of services delivering by healthcare providers. This article presents a comprehensive review on RFID systems and healthcare research works in smart homes. We also compare RFID-based solutions in healthcare and distinguish challenges of smart home technologies in indoor environment. We also discuss research challenges related to Activity in Daily Living (ADL) in smart homes for wellbeing.
文摘Deep repository in geological formations is the preferential solution considered in many countries to manage high-level nuclear wastes. In Switzerland, the Opalinus Clay is a candidate host rock. In this context, in situ and laboratory tests are conducted on Opalinus Clay to demonstrate the feasibility of deep disposal in this argillaceous formation. This paper presents a constitutive model able to fit the experimental data obtained from some triaxial tests conducted by Jahns(2013) on cores from borehole Schlattingen SLA-1. The elasto-plastic behaviour of Opalinus Clay is reproduced thanks to a DruckerPrager model, taking into account the anisotropy behaviour of this sedimentary rock. The objective is to employ a single set of parameters representative of the material. In a second version of the model, the stress-dependence of the elastic properties and damage are taken into account. Finally, the parameters calibrated with experimental tests are used to simulate the excavation of a gallery with a second gradient approach.
文摘The profile equations of geometric optics are described in a form invariant under the natural transformations of first order systems of partial differential equations. This allows us to prove that various strategies for computing profile equations are equivalent. We prove that if L generates an evolution on L2 the same is true of the profile equations. We prove that the characteristic polynomial of the profile equations is the localization of the characteristic polynomial of the background operator at (y, dφ(y)) where φ is the background phase. We prove that the propagation cones of the profile equations are subsets of the propagation cones of the background operator.
文摘Saudi Arabia is currently in a transformation phase, which has resulted in a significant demand for healthcare services in the country’s healthcare system to provide better healthcare facilities for the fast-growing population and the growing elderly population. The lack of trained healthcare professionals and strong dependence on foreign labour are important aspects for policymakers to address, thus requiring Human Resource Development (HRD) initiatives to provide adequate learning and competence to a huge reserve of healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia. In this regard, this paper contributes to Saudi Arabian health care by reporting healthcare professionals’ experiences of working in the Saudi health sector under the newly proposed Vision 2030 and NTP 2020 interventions in the HRD sphere of healthcare. The Vision 2030 is a testimony to a revolutionary step taken by the Government to reform the Saudi healthcare sector and provide HRD opportunities.
文摘In this paper, we propose a novel idea for improvement performances of the leader M-BCJR algorithm functioning in low complexity. The basic idea consists to localize error instant possibility, and then increase the complexity around this moment. We also propose an easy and important idea for early localisation of erroneous moments. We call this new algorithm Z-MAP. The simulations show that the improvement of performances is significant. The performances of Z-MAP turbo decoding are so close to full MAP-BCJR performances. Furthermore, the complexity is the same that of the M-BCJR. So, Z-MAP is an optimal version of M-BCJR algorithm.
文摘This article gives an elementary account of the recently proposed theory of spontaneous quantum gravity. It is argued that a viable quantum theory of gravity should be falsifiable, and hence it should dynamically explain the observed absence of quantum superpositions of space-time geometries in its classical limit.
文摘Vascular targeted photochemotherapy(VTP) holds promise as a novel strategy of the focal treatment of localised prostate cancer(LPCa). It is convenient to perform, minimally invasive and can be conduct in ambulatory conditions. In this review, methodologic aspects of padoporfin- and padeliporfin-mediated VTP and its clinical application in focal treatment of LPCa as well as future perspective of this method were presented. Physicochemical and pharmacokinetic parameters of padoporphin and padeliporfin using as VTP photosensitizers were described, as well as methodologic question of radiation delivery and dosimetry, and oxygen monitoring in cancer tissue in context of VTP safety and efficiency of LPCa focal therapy were discussed. The results of clinical trials concerning application of padoporfin- and padeliporfin-mediated VTP in LPCa were also presented. The future of VTP is development of protocols, founded on the realtime feedback and rules-based approach to make this strategy a standard procedure in LPCa treatment. To evaluate clinical potential of this procedure, a costeffectiveness analysis is also necessary.
基金funded by the UK EPSRC through a Doctoral Training Partnership No.EP/T517951/1(2435656).
文摘Visual simultaneous localisation and mapping(vSLAM)finds applications for indoor and outdoor navigation that routinely subjects it to visual complexities,particularly mirror reflections.The effect of mirror presence(time visible and its average size in the frame)was hypothesised to impact localisation and mapping performance,with systems using direct techniques expected to perform worse.Thus,a dataset,MirrEnv,of image sequences recorded in mirror environments,was collected,and used to evaluate the performance of existing representative methods.RGBD ORB-SLAM3 and BundleFusion appear to show moderate degradation of absolute trajectory error with increasing mirror duration,whilst the remaining results did not show significantly degraded localisation performance.The mesh maps generated proved to be very inaccurate,with real and virtual reflections colliding in the reconstructions.A discussion is given of the likely sources of error and robustness in mirror environments,outlining future directions for validating and improving vSLAM performance in the presence of planar mirrors.The MirrEnv dataset is available at https://doi.org/10.17035/d.2023.0292477898.
基金The work was supported by the General Program of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31,470,635)the Fundamental Research Funds of the Chinese Academy of Forestry(No.CAFYBB2017ZX001-3).
文摘Slash pine(Pinus elliottii Engelm.var.elliottii)is a resin-producing species grown worldwide for significant economic benefits for wood production.Resin tapping cre-ates a carbon sink at the expense of carbon allocation for growth and consequently,wood production may be reduced.Non-structural carbohydrates comprising starch and sugars stored in plant organs,may serve as intermediate pools between assimilation and utilisation.However,the effect of resin tapping between tree growth and non-structural carbo-hydrates is not well understood.This study investigated(1)the effects of resin tapping on radial growth,(2)the effects of resin tapping on non-structural carbohydrate pools in different compartments,and(3)the feasibility of resin pro-duction without disruption of tree growth.Twenty one-year-old slash pines were subjected to resin tapping over two suc-cessive years.Non-structural carbohydrate concentrations in needles,branches,stem phloem,and roots of tapped and untapped trees in summer and winter were determined after the second year of resin harvest.The results showed that tapping had no significant effects on annual increments.Starch was the dominant non-structural carbohydrate frac-tion,regardless of tissues and season,and constituted up to 99%of the total non-structural carbohydrates in the phloem and roots.Glucose and fructose were the dominant sugars;sucrose was negligible.Compared with the controls,tapped trees showed 26%lower non-structural carbohydrate concen-tration in the phloem above the tapping wound in summer,which was attributable to the decreased abundance of starch,glucose,fructose,and sucrose.In winter,the altered non-structural carbohydrate profiles in the phloem above the tap-ping wounding were minimised as a result of recovery of the sugar concentrations.In contrast to free sugars,which accu-mulated substantially in needles and branches during winter,starch was enriched in the phloem,roots,and current-year needles.The results provide evidence for a localised effect of resin tapping,and highlight the observation that resin extrac-tion does not always cause a sacrifice in wood growth under a moderate resin-tapping intensity in slash pine plantations.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos.10764002 and 60966002)the National Key Laboratory of Surface Physics at Fudan University
文摘Silicon quantum dots fabricated by nanosecond pulsed laser in nitrogen, oxygen or air atmosphere have enhanced photoluminescence (PL) emission with the stimulated emission observed at about 700 nm. It is difficult to distinguish between the photoluminescence peaks emitted from samples prepared in different atmospheres. The reason for the appearance of similar peaks may be the similar distribution of the localised states in the gap for different samples when silicon dangling bonds of quantum dots are passivated by nitrogen or oxygen. It is revealed that both the kind and the density of passivated bonds on quantum dot surface prepared in oxygen or nitrogen have a strong influence on the enhancement of PL emission.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 60708014)the Science Foundation for Postdoctorate of China (Grant No. 2004035083)+2 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province of China (Grant No. 06JJ2034)the Excellent Doctorate Dissertation Foundation of Central South University of China (Grant No. 2008yb039)the Hunan Provincial Innovation Foundation for Postgraduate (Grant No. CX2009B029)
文摘We investigate the relationship between the transmission and the layer distance of double-layer gold slit arrays by using the finite-difference time-domain method. The results show that the transmission properties can be influenced strongly by layer distance. We attribute the two types of resonant modes to surface plasmon resonance and the localised waveguide resonance. We find that the localised waveguide transmission peak redshifts and becomes broader with increasing layer distance D. We also describe and explain the splitting, shift, and degeneration of the surface plasmon resonant transmission peak theoretically. In addition, to clarify the physical mechanism of the transmission behaviours, we analyse the distributions of electric field and total energy for the three transmission peaks with distance D = 45 nm for the double-layer system. Light transporting behaviours are mostly concentrated in the region of the slits as well as the interspaces of the two layers, and for different resonant wavelengths the electric field and energy distributions are different. It is expected that the results obtained here will be helpful for designing subwavelength metallic grating devices.
基金supported by NSFC Basic Science Center Program for“Multiscale Problems in Nonlinear Mechanics”(No.11988102)National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.12002344,11232011 and 11572331)+2 种基金The authors would like to acknowledge the support from China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2020M670478)the Strategic Priority Research Program(No.XDB22040104)the Key Research Program of Frontier Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(No.QYZDJ-SSW-SYS002).
文摘Independent component analysis(ICA)is used to study the multiscale localised modes of streamwise velocity fluctuations in turbulent channel flows.ICA aims to decompose signals into independent modes,which may induce spatially localised objects.The height and size are defined to quantify the spatial position and extension of these ICA modes,respectively.In contrast to spatially extended proper orthogonal decomposition(POD)modes,ICA modes are typically localised in space,and the energy of some modes is distributed across the near-wall region.The sizes of ICA modes are multiscale and are approximately proportional to their heights.ICA modes can also help to reconstruct the statistics of turbulence,particularly the third-order moment of velocity fluctuations,which is related to the strongest Reynolds shear-stressproducing events.The results reported in this paper indicate that the ICA method may connect statistical descriptions and structural descriptions of turbulence.