A new interpretation of the average matched filter for MSK-typereceivers

The minimum-mean-square-error approximation to a generalized minimum-shift-keying (MSK) signal using an offset quadrature phase-shift keying waveform with an elementary pulse, g(t), is considered. It is shown that the optimum shape of G(t), γ(t), coincides with the average pulse of the generalized MSK signal. Therefore, γ(-t) is the impulse response of the corresponding average matched fiber     

MHOMS: high-speed ACM modem for satellite applications

This article presents the novel FPGA-based 1 Gb/s near-Shannon-limit ACM modem developed within the MHOMS program with particular focus on the advanced modem algorithm solutions devised. A number of powerful FEC schemes have been analyzed as possible candidates for the MHOMS modem, and the final selection is justified in terms of the best tradeoff between complexity and performance. State-of-the-art modulation and demodulation algorithms are also presented, including nonlinearity dynamic precompensation techniques and innovative synchronization strategies required by the selected powerful modulation and coding schemes. Overall modem performances are also shown for a variety of spectral efficiencies.     

Cheek cell fatty acids as indicators of dietary lipids in humans

Analysis of cheek cell lipids has been suggested as a noninvasive method for monitoring the fatty acid composition of diets in humans. In a pilot study conducted to determine the validity of the method, cheek cell samples were collected from subjects consuming a low fat (20% of calories) diet consisting of fatty acids with either a 1.0 or 0.3 P/S ratio. Neither total lipid nor polar lipid fatty acids in cheek cells consistently reflected the P/S ratio of the diets. However, there were trends, particularly in the nonpolar lipids, suggesting that cheek cell fatty acid ratios might be useful for monitoring the fatty acid composition of the diets. The diet with the higher P/S ratio (1.0 vs 0.3) consistently resulted in cheek cell lipids with lower ratios of 18∶1/saturated fatty acids and greater 18∶2/20∶4, 18∶2/18∶1 and 18∶2/18∶0 fatty acid ratios.     

Performance evaluation of an adaptive GSM receiver with frequency-selective fading and adjacent- and co-channel interference

This study represents the sequel and conclusion of a previous one already published in this Journal a few issues ago.¹ In that article, we tackled the problem of evaluating theoretically the performance of an adaptive MLSE receiver for MSK signals on a frequency-selective stationary radio propagation channel, and we validated the theoretical findings (in the form of upper and lower bounds to the BER of the receiver) by means of computer simulations. In the present paper, we report on the performance of the very same scheme of channel-estimator-plus-Viterbi-equalizer receiver for mobile communications in a more realistic operating environment. In particular, we completely encompass here the groupe spécial mobile (GSM) transmission format, based on the Gaussian minimum shift keying (GMSK) modulation scheme and on narrowband time-division multiple access (TDMA) transmission. Also, we remove the assumption of a time-invariant propagation channel, assuming the recommended standard GSM channels as benchmark transmission conditions. Finally, with the aid of extensive computer simulations, we analyse the sensitivity of the MLSE receiver to unwanted co-channel and adjacent-channel interference coming from other users of the mobile cellular GSM system.     

Game theory in signal processing and communications [From the Guest Editors]

Game theory is a branch of mathematics aimed at the modeling and understanding of resource conflict problems. Essentially, the theory splits into two branches: noncooperative and cooperative game theory. The distinction between the two is whether or not the players in the game can make joint decisions regarding the choice of strategy. Noncooperative game theory is closely connected to minimax optimization and typically results in the study of various equilibria, most notably the Nash equilibrium. Cooperative game theory examines how strictly rational (selfish) actors can benefit from voluntary cooperation by reaching bargaining agreements. Another distinction is between static and dynamic game theory, where the latter can be viewed as a combination of game theory and optimal control. In general, the theory provides a structured approach to many important problems arising in signal processing and communications, notably resource allocation and robust transceiver optimization. Recent applications also occur in other emerging fields, such as cognitive radio, spectrum sharing, and in multihop-sensor and adhoc networks.     

Criteria to Improve Time-Delay Estimation of Spread Spectrum Signals in Satellite Positioning

Positioning accuracy in satellite navigation systems depends on time-delay estimation (TDE) between satellite transmitted codes and local receiver replicas. This paper explores the fundamental limits of TDE accuracy of spread spectrum signals making use of estimation theory. In particular, this contribution derives some criteria to improve positioning accuracy in the additive white Gaussian noise (multipath-free) scenario, focusing on the (satellite) transmitter side of a direct sequence spread spectrum (DS-SS) system. Three different solutions based on the minimization of the variance of the TDE are presented. The first method derives a design criterion for the shaping pulse format. The second approach outlines a method to design binary pseudorandom spreading sequences. The third solution considers a joint shaping pulse-spreading code optimization to derive band-limited, non-binary spreading waveforms. Performance of the proposed solutions is compared with that of existing DS-SS signals for current satellite positioning systems. Possible countermeasures to the effects of multipath propagation are also discussed.     

Microstructure and High‐Temperature Strength of Monocrystalline Nickel‐Base Superalloys

The progress in the further development of monocrystalline nickel‐base superalloys as the most advanced turbine‐blade materials has been the result of combined efforts in alloy development and microstructural refinement. Some aspects of these developments are reviewed. The questions of microstructural stability with respect to the formation of brittle topologically closed‐packed (TCP) phases and, in particular, directional coarsening, i.e., γ/γ′ rafting under service‐near high‐temperature creep conditions are addressed. Since γ/γ′ rafting is usually accompanied by creep acceleration, attempts have been made to avoid rafting by modifying the microstructure by appropriate thermal/mechanical treatments. These attempts were not successful. On the other hand, it could be shown that pre‐rafting in compression, leading to the formation of rafts parallel to the stress axis in the case of alloys with negative γ/γ′ lattice mismatch, enhances both the isothermal high‐temperature creep and fatigue strengths. According to current understanding, there exists no optimum γ/γ′ lattice mismatch in the case of negative mismatch but, at best, an optimum compromise between low‐ and high‐temperature behavior. It is speculated that a more suitable situation could be found in alloys with positive lattice mismatch.     

Selective and self-validating breath-level detection of hydrogen sulfide in humid air by gold nanoparticle-functionalized nanotube arrays

We demonstrate the selective detection of hydrogen sulfide at breath concentration levels under humid airflow,using a self-validating 64-channel sensor array ba...