Optimization for Fault Localization in All-Optical Networks

Fault localization is a critical issue in all-optical networks. The limited-perimeter vector matching (LVM) protocol is a novel fault-localization protocol proposed for localizing single-link failures in all-optical networks. In this paper, we study the optimization problems in applying the LVM protocol in static all- optical networks. We consider two optimization problems: one is to optimize the traffic distribution so that the fault-localization probability in terms of the number of localized links is maximized, and the other is to optimize the traffic distribution so that the time for localizing a failed link is minimized. We formulate the two problems into an integer linear programming problem, respectively, and use the CPLEX optimization tool to solve the formulated problems. We show that by optimizing the traffic distribution the fault-localization probability can be maximized and the fault-localization time can be minimized. Moreover, a heuristic algorithm is proposed to evaluate the optimization results through simulation experiments.     

Nanostructured cochleates: a multi-layered platform for cellular transportation of therapeutics

Among lipid-based nanocarriers, multi-layered cochleates emerge as a novel delivery system because of prevention of oxidation of hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs, enhancement in permeability, and reduction in dose of drugs. It also improves oral bioavailability and increases the safety of a drug by targeting at a specific site with less side effects. Nanostructured cochleates are used as a carrier for the delivery of water-insoluble or hydrophobic drugs of anticancer, antiviral and anti-inflammatory action. This review article focuses on different methods for preparation of cochleates, mechanism of formation of cochleates, mechanism of action like cochleate undergoes macrophagic endocytosis and release the drug into the systemic circulation by acting on membrane proteins, phospholipids, and receptors. Advanced methods such as calcium-substituted and β-cyclodextrin-based cochleates, novel techniques include microfluidic and modified trapping method. Cochleates showed enhancement in oral bioavailability of amphotericin B, delivery of factor VII, oral mucosal vaccine adjuvant-delivery system, and delivery of volatile oil. In near future, cochleate will be one of the interesting delivery systems to overcome the stability and encapsulation efficiency issues associated with liposomes. The current limiting factors for commercial preparation of cochleates involve high cost of manufacturing, lack of standardization, and specialized equipments.     

An Improved Hybrid RSS/TDOA Wireless Sensors Localization Technique Utilizing Wi-Fi Networks

This paper presents a hybrid localization algorithm for wireless sensor networks (WSNs) that simultaneously exploits received signal strength (RSS) and time difference of arrival (TDOA) measurements. The accuracy and convergence reliability of the proposed hybrid scheme are also enhanced by incorporating RSS measurements from Wi-Fi networks via cooperative communications between Wi-Fi and sensor networks. To this end, two different types of estimators based on Taylor-series (TS) expansion and maximum-likelihood (ML) estimation are first proposed to solve the set of nonlinear RSS/TDOA equations taking into account measurement errors. The corresponding Cramér-Rao lower bound (CRLB) for the established scheme is then derived and utilized as a performance measure for the two estimators. Simulation results show that the proposed hybrid positioning approach significantly outperforms the previously considered localization solutions in WSNs, thanks to the joint process of the received signals’ power and time difference of arrival. The advantages of the proposed scheme in providing high location accuracy, fast convergence, low complexity implementation, and low power consumption make it an attractive localization solution via WSNs.     

Miniaturized multi‐frequency Wilkinson power dividers based on nonuniform coplanar waveguide

In this work, the design of miniaturized dual‐ and triple‐ frequency Wilkinson power dividers using nonuniform coplanar waveguides is presented. The miniaturized configurations are achieved by replacing the conventional uniform arms with their equivalent multi‐frequency nonuniform transmission lines. The nonuniform width variation is governed by a truncated Fourier series expansion with coefficients optimized to obtain the desired multi‐frequency operation. The optimization process is carried out through the analysis of the even/odd mode circuits. The proposed dividers are simulated, fabricated, and measured to validate the design methodology. Simulated and measured results agree very well, and show input/output ports return loss and isolation better than 14.4 dB and transmission parameters in the range of ?3 ± 2 dB at the design frequencies. Size reduction of 16.7% and 17.6% are achieved for the fabricated dual‐ and triple‐frequency dividers, respectively.     

Multiway wideband power dividers

In this article, we propose a new design methodology to broaden the bandwidth of a multiway Bagley power divider (BPD). Single‐frequency matching uniform quarter‐wave‐length microstrip lines in the conventional design are replaced with impedance‐varying transmission lines of broadband matching characteristics. The equivalent transmission line model is used for profiling impedance variations, which are governed by a truncated Fourier series. Such variations are determined by finding the optimum series coefficients that result in a wideband matching nature. The proposed technique leads to flexible spectrum allocation and matching level. Furthermore, the resulting structures are compact and planar. First, analytical results of three 3‐way BPDs of different fractional bandwidths are presented and discussed to validate the proposed approach. Then, two examples of 3‐ and 5‐way BPDs with bandwidths of 4–10 GHz and 5–9 GHz, respectively, are simulated, fabricated, and measured. Simulated and measured results are in a good agreement, with input port matching of below ?15 dB and ?12.5 dB for the 3‐ and 5‐way dividers, respectively, over the bands of interest. The obtained transmission parameters of the 3‐ and 5‐way dividers are ?4.77 ± 1 dB and ?7 ± 1 dB, respectively, over the design bands. The proposed wideband dividers find many applications in microwave front‐end circuitry, especially in only‐transmitting antenna subsystems, such as broad‐ and multicast communication links. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J RF and Microwave CAE 25:730–738, 2015.     

Iodine-aided palladium-free catalyzation process for durable electroless nickel plating on Kevlar® fiber

We report here a highly durable electroless nickel plating on Kevlar fiber through iodine-aided palladium-free catalyzation process. Kevlar was first treated with an iodine–potassium iodide aqueous solution to impart iodide component into the near fiber surface. The doped iodine was converted to silver iodide particles by treatment with silver nitrate aqueous solution, and subsequently silver iodide was reduced to silver metal particles. After electroless plating, a smooth nickel layer was evenly deposited on the fiber surface, which was resistant against sonication, tape peel-off, and alkaline corrosion tests. The silver particles formed on and near the fiber surface act as an anchor for the plated layer as well as a catalyst for electroless plating. Further investigation revealed that the use of an anionic surfactant during the catalyzation process enhanced the adhesive force of the plated layer with fiber surface. The plated fibers possessed high tensile strength, electrical conductivity, and ferromagnetic properties.     

Detection of genetically modified soy in processed foods sold commercially in Malaysia by PCR-based method

Regulations for the use and labeling of genetically modified organism (GMO) products and derived ingredients are being implemented worldwide, that demands reliable and accurate methods to detect GMO in raw materials and food products. In this study, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method was established for monitoring products derived from GMO that are sold in the markets in Malaysia, which specifically amplify the 35S promoter, nos (nopaline synthase-terminator), EPSPS (5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase) and RRS (CTP/CP4EPSPS). Using this method, we investigated the incidence of genetically modified soy (GM-soy) and specifically the presence of roundup ready soy (RRS). All the soybean samples were evidenced by presence of the lectin gene. Out of 85 samples examined, the 18 positive GM samples were raw bean (9), tofu (8) and tempe (1) (a traditional Malay food). The results demonstrate for the first time the presence of GM-soy in Malaysian food products, reinforcing the need for the development of accurate quantitative methods for routine analyses.     

Design and analysis of a 3-way unequal split ultra-wideband Wilkinson power divider

In this article, a 3-way ultra-wideband (UWB) unequal split Wilkinson power divider (WPD) using tapered line transformers is presented. Three tapered lines are designed through the even-mode analysis, and used instead of the conventional 3-way WPD arms. In addition to the three main arms, three additional tapered transformers are used to match the output ports to the 50?Ω connectors. To achieve an acceptable output ports matching and isolation, multiple resistors are uniformly distributed and mounted between the three tapered arms of the WPD. An optimisation process is carried out to obtain the values of these resistors considering the odd-mode analysis. The proposed WPD is designed to operate over the frequency band of 2–12?GHz, and simulated using two full-wave EM simulators. Full-wave simulation and experimental results verify the design procedure.     

Preparation of nano- and microstructured gold surfaces by application of a square wave potential regime

Gold nanometallic structures have been prepared by application of square wave potential regime to a platinum electrode in a 1.0 × 10^?3 M HAuCl₄ + 0.5 M H₂SO₄ solution. Formation of gold particles onto the platinum surface has been followed by cyclic voltammetry, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The results indicate that the size, shape, uniformity of distribution of the particles are affected by the selected parameters of the applied square wave potential regime. Parameters of the square wave include the frequency, the lower and the upper limits of the square wave and the time of application of the square wave potential regime. The concentration of HAuCl₄ in the solution is another important factor. The results of the present work indicated that the 100 Hz frequency is the optimal frequency for obtaining gold nanoparticles on platinum surface. Deposition time has been also found to play a critical role in affecting the size, shape and homogeneity of gold nanostructures at the surface. The surface coverage with nanoparticles as calculated from the decrease in the charge of hydrogen adsorption/desorption peaks is found to be directly proportional to the time of application of the square wave. Testing the nanostructured gold/Pt electrode for oxidation of formic acid shows its higher catalytic activity than that of platinum and gold plain electrodes.     

Design and analysis of unequal split Bagley power dividers

In this article, we propose a general design procedure to develop unequal split Bagley power dividers (BPDs). Based on the mathematical approach carried out in the insight of simple circuit and transmission line theories, exact design equations for 3-way and 5-way BPDs are derived. Utilising the developed equations leads to power dividers with the ability of offering different output power ratios through a suitable choice of the characteristic impedances of the interconnecting transmission lines. For verification purposes, a 1:2:1 3-way, 1:2:1:2:1 5-way and 1:3:1:3:1 5-way BPDs are designed and fabricated. The experimental and full-wave simulation results prove the validity of the designed unequal split BPDs.