The E3 architecture: enabling future cellular networks with cognitive and self‐x capabilities

Future mobile networks are expected to be complex heterogeneous systems. On the one hand this will enable users to take advantage of a number of different access technologies. On the other hand it will seriously affect network management procedures since more extensive operations and decisions will have to be dealt with. To tackle these challenges a number of new dynamic mechanisms need to be designed. It is imperative that certain network management tasks have to be performed without human intervention to reduce the OPEX costs and achieve faster responses in different events. To achieve this goal, the introduction of self‐x functionalities, combined with cognitive mechanisms and the ability to reconfigure network entities and terminals, is required. Moreover, the introduction of a new pilot channel needs to be considered to assist the terminals in selecting the most suitable radio access technology according to their requirements. We present the functional architecture of an evolved network that was designed in the context of the EU‐funded IP project ‘E³: End‐to‐End Efficiency’. This architecture aims to enhance existing procedures usually performed in traditional operation and maintenance systems (e.g. spectrum management, network planning, configuration actions). We explain the rationale of our design and provide specific examples to illustrate the role of the different functional entities and their interfaces. A considerable part of this architecture has recently been approved as a feasibility study by the ETSI Committee Reconfigurable Radio System. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Kirigami/Origami‐Based Soft Deployable Reflector for Optical Beam Steering

The beam steering mechanism has been a key element for various applications ranging from sensing and imaging to solar tracking systems. However, conventional beam steering systems are bulky and complex and present significant challenges for scaling up. This work introduces the use of soft deployable reflectors combining a soft deployable structure with simple kirigami/origami reflective films. This structure can be used as a macroscale beam steering mechanism that is both simple and compact. This work first develops a soft deployable structure that is easily scalable by patterning of soft linear actuators. This soft deployable structure is capable of increasing its height several folds by expanding in a continuous and controllable manner, which can be used as a frame to deform the linearly stretchable kirigami/origami structures integrated into the structure. Experiments on the reflective capability of the reflectors are conducted and show a good fit to the modeling results. The proposed principles for deployment and for beam steering can be used to realize novel active beam steering devices, highlighting the use of soft robotic principles to produce scalable morphing structures.     

Proposal of visual strength grading rules for Uruguayan pine timber

A previous database with bending and density data of 261 structural size specimens of currently produced Uruguayan slash pine and loblolly pine timber was adjusted to meet testing and characterization requirements of European standards. Visual parameters and mechanical properties for each specimen were evaluated and their relationship was statistically analyzed. Results suggested that all specimens can be grouped in one visual grade with engineered properties similar to those of European C14 strength class. Modulus of elasticity and characteristic bending strength were the defining properties for class assignation.     

Non-conventional high-pressure extraction process: A comparative study for astaxanthin recovery from Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous

Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous is one of the most attractive natural sources of astaxanthin. The yeast produces the compound intracellularly, therefore, it is necessary to evaluate cell rupture methods using clean and efficient technologies for its extraction and it subsequent use in industries. At present work, two non-conventional high-pressure extraction methods were evaluated for astaxanthin recovery: Supercritical fluid extraction and microfluidisation. Results: Effect of pressure (15, 30, and 45 Megapascals; MPa), Temperature (313 and 343 °K) and usage of co-solvent were studied in supercritical extraction process, meanwhile the effect of microfluidisation process (five stages and 160 MPa) for cell rupture and its combination with conventional technics (lithic enzymes, glass beads and ultrasonication) for the recovery of astaxanthin were evaluated. Supercritical fluid extraction presented a higher astaxanthin recovery, 54% yield extraction, at 32.5 MPa and 313 °K, and using ethanol as co-solvent, compared to a 31% yield extraction by mean microfluidisation process at 160 MPa combined with 15 min of sonication (amplitude of 80%).     

Development of an antimicrobial material based on a nanocomposite cellulose acetate film for active food packaging

Nanocomposites based on biopolymers have been recognised as potential materials for the development of new ecofriendly food packaging. In addition, if these materials incorporate active substances in their structure, the potential applications are much higher. Therefore, this work was oriented to develop nanocomposites with antimicrobial activity based on cellulose acetate (CA), a commercial organoclay Cloisite30B (C30B), thymol (T) as natural antimicrobial component and tri-ethyl citrate (TEC) as plasticiser. Nanocomposites were prepared by a solvent casting method and consisted of 5% (w/w) of C30B, 5% (w/w) of TEC and variable content of T (0%, 0.5% and 2% w/w). To evaluate the effect of C30B into the CA matrix, CA films without this organoclay but with T were also prepared. All nanocomposites showed the intercalation of CA into the organoclay structure; furthermore this intercalation was favoured when 2% (w/w) of T was added to the nanocomposite. In spite of the observed intercalation, the presence of C30B inside the CA matrices increased the opacity of the films significantly. On the other hand, T showed a plasticiser effect on the thermal properties of CA nanocomposites decreasing glass transition, melting temperature and melting enthalpy. The presence of T in CA nanocomposites also allowed the control de Listeria innocua growth when these materials were placed in contact with this Gram-positive bacterium. Interestingly, antimicrobial activity was increased with the presence of C30B. Finally, studies on T release showed that the clay structure inside the CA matrix did not affect its release rate; however, this nanofiller affected the partition coefficient K_P/FS which was higher to CA nanocomposites films than in CA films without organoclay. The results obtained in the present study are really promising to be applied in the manufacture of food packaging materials.     

Relationship between proteolysis and angiotensin-I-converting enzyme inhibition in different cheeses

The inhibition of angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE) by the ethanol (70%)-soluble fraction (ESF) from different cheeses was analysed with an extract from rabbit lung acetone powder as enzyme source and 2-furanacryloyl-1-phenylalanylglycylglycine (FAPGG) as substrate. Proteolysis was assessed by a spectroscopic o-phthaldialdehyde (OPA) assay of the pH 4.6-soluble fraction and ESF. Peptides in the ESF were separated by reverse phase-HPLC. The traditional Norwegian cheese Gamalost had per unit cheese weight higher ACE inhibition potential than Brie, Roquefort and Gouda-type cheese, likely due to the combination of highest protein content and most extensive proteolysis providing a high content of ACE inhibitory peptides. However, ACE-inhibition expressed as IC₅₀ per unit peptide concentration from ESF assessed by the OPA-assay was highest for Kesam, a Quark-type cheese with a low degree of proteolysis.     

Quinone emissions from gasoline and diesel motor vehicles

Gas- and particle-phase emissions from gasoline and diesel vehicles operated on chassis dynamometers were collected using annular denuders, quartz filters, and PUF substrates. Quinone species were measured using O-(2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorobenzyl)hydroxylamine derivatization in conjunction with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Nine quinones were observed, ranging from C6 to C16. New species identified in motor vehicle exhaust include methyl-1,4-benzoquinone, 2-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone (MNQN), and aceanthrenequinone. Gas-phase motor vehicle emissions of quinones are also reported for the first time. Six gas-phase quinones were quantified with emission rates of 2-28 000 microg L(-1) fuel consumed. The most abundant gas-phase quinones were 1,4-benzoquinone (BON) and MNQN. The gas-phase fraction was > or = 69% of quinone mass for light-duty gasoline emissions, and > or = 84% for heavy-duty diesel emissions. Eight particle-phase quinones were observed between 2 and 1600 microg L(-1), with BQN the most abundant species followed by 9,10-phenanthrenequinone and 1,2-naphthoquinone. Current particle-phase quinone measurements agree well with the few available previous results. Further research is needed concerning the gas-particle partitioning behavior of quinones in ambient and combustion source conditions.     

Ambient air measurement of acrolein and other carbonyls at the Oakland-San Francisco Bay Bridge toll plaza

Interest in ambient concentrations of acrolein and other alpha,beta-unsaturated aldehydes and dicarbonyls (e.g., crotonaldehyde, methyl glyoxal, glyoxal, malonaldehyde (malondialdehyde)) is growing because either they exist at high levels in motor vehicle emissions or they arise from photooxidation of other hydrocarbons emitted from mobile sources. In addition, their mutagenic, genotoxic, or carcinogenic properties are well-established, and the results of a dispersion-modeling study regarding the health risks posed by the 188 hazardous air pollutants in California attributes the highest noncancer risk to exposure to acrolein. Such modeling studies, conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA), also predict median ambient air concentrations of acrolein higher than 0.06 microg/m3, the chronic inhalation reference exposure level stipulated by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment in counties surrounding the Oakland-San Francisco Bay Bridge. We measured acrolein and other potentially toxic carbonyls in air sampled at the San Francisco Bay Bridge toll plaza during rush hour traffic, which may be considered a "worst case scenario" for outdoor airborne carbonyls. We identified 36 carbonyls in the sample extracts, including 14 saturated aliphatic carbonyls, six unsaturated carbonyls, four aromatic carbonyls, six dicarbonyls, and six hydroxy carbonyls. Structural information to support tentative identification of carbonyls and hydroxycarbonyls was obtained by using a method that involves O-(2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorobenzyl)hydroxylamine (PFBHA) and PFBHA/bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA) derivatization in concert with gas chromatography/ion trap mass spectrometry. Most notably, we report for the first time the presence of malonaldehyde in the ambient atmospheric environment. A relatively linear relationship between retention time and the molecular weight of the derivatives was established to assist in obtaining structural information about chemicals for which authentic standards are not readily available. Levels of acrolein exceeded the California reference exposure level during morning rush hour traffic. The measured values, however, were significantly lower than estimates of county-wide average acrolein concentrations predicted by a U.S. EPA modeling study based on 1996 data. Successful regulatory efforts such as the introduction of reformulated gasoline, together with the advancement of new catalysts and fleet turnover throughout the 1990s, are likely to account for part of the gap between our determination and the 1996 levels.     

Furosine is a useful indicator in pre‐baked breads

There is increasing demand for pre‐baked bread. Bakers can meet consumer requirements for breads of specific flavour and colour by pre‐baking an amount of bread in the morning and completing the baking process in the afternoon. This type of product is of special interest to sandwich bars, restaurants and large communities. In order to obtain an indicator of utility to monitor the processing of pre‐baked bread, the browning indicators furosine, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and glucosylisomaltol were analysed in two independent assays of bread pre‐baked at 175 °C for between 5 and 30 min. No furosine was detected in raw or fermented dough. In the pre‐baking stage, furosine increased from 1.5‐ to 5‐fold between 5 and 30 min. The furosine values obtained in the two independent experiments were similar. HMF and glucosylisomaltol were only detected after 15 min, which is the time period commonly used for processing by the industry. Thus, among these indicators, furosine is the only one with utility for monitoring the pre‐baking process. On the other hand, a study of the baking of pre‐baked bread at 220 °C showed that HMF and glucosylisomaltol can be used to monitor the latter process. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry