Data Acquisition Points Research Articles

Development the method of organizing a secure data channel in the water supply monitoring system

This article describes a method of securing data in water supply monitoring system. The main aim of the study is to information security that is transmitted in the system of monitoring of water supply process through wireless networks. It is necessary to find a system architecture that will provide stability to the interception of information. In this paper we propose to use the encryption algorithm based on an asymmetric public key to create a secure TCP-session between the client (data acquisition points) and the server. This method allows creating a secure data transmission channel on the Internet using only one static IP-address from the data acquisition server. Studies indicate that this method has advantages over the use of the existing operating system in the data acquisition device. The author proposes to use this method of constructing the water supply monitoring system for data exchange between the data acquisition points and the server. The research results can be used by designers of water supply systems, automation and remote control, engaged in the field of water supply.

Scanned Data Triangulation Using Delaunay Tetrahedralization Approach for 3D Point Cloud Data

Reverse Engineering (RE) is used to create surface models of existing products by capturing Point Cloud Data using either contact or non – contact scanners. Rapid Prototyping (RP) is used to fabricate the physical prototype of a product using a layer by layer additive technique. In this paper, a new method is suggested which creates a direct link between RE and RP. For RE process, 3D Laser Scanners have become more accurate and the speed of data acquisition has increased dramatically. However, handling of huge amount of Point Cloud Data is a major constraint. Rapid Prototyping (RP) demands solid model in Structured Tessellation Language (STL) format as a basic input. The three basic steps involved in creating a STL file from Point Cloud Data are as follows: 1) Data acquisition (Point Cloud Data), 2) Surface model and solid model development by using commercial software, 3) Generation of triangular mesh model using solid model and 4) STL file generation. This process is difficult; time consuming and laborious because gaps may appear in a surface model, being person dependent that may not allow the conversion of surface model into a perfect STL file. To overcome these steps, some researchers have suggested a technique in which STL file can be crated directly from the Point Cloud Data to avoid surface modeling tasks. Conventionally Delaunay triangulation is used for triangulation of 2D Point Cloud Data obtained from 3D Laser Scanner. In this paper, a new approach, “Delaunay Tetrahedralization” is suggested which is suitable for 3D Point Cloud Data. The efficiency of the algorithm is validated and the results are included in this paper.

An intelligent structural damage detection approach based on self-powered wireless sensor data

Abstract This study presents the results of an ongoing research project conducted by the U.S. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on developing an intelligent approach for structural damage detection. The proposed approach is established upon the simulation of the compressed data stored in memory chips of a newly developed self-powered wireless sensor. An innovative data interpretation system integrating finite element method (FEM) and probabilistic neural network (PNN) based on Bayesian decision theory is developed for damage detection. Several features extracted from the cumulative limited static strain data are used as damage indicator variables. Another contribution of this paper is to define indicator variables that simultaneously take into account the effect of array of sensors. The performance of the proposed approach is first evaluated for the case of a simply supported beam under three-point bending. Then, the efficiency of the method is tested for the complicated case of a bridge gusset plate. The beam and gusset plate structures are analyzed as 3D FE models. The static strain data from the FE simulations for different damage scenarios is used to calibrate the sensor-specific data interpretation algorithm. The viability and repeatability of the method is demonstrated by conducting a number of simulations. Furthermore, a general scheme is presented for finding the optimal number of data acquisition points (sensors) on the structure and the associated optimal locations. An uncertainty analysis is performed through the contamination of the damage indicator features with different Gaussian noise levels.

Empirical Development of a Trusted Sensing Base for Power System Infrastructures

The transition from traditional power systems into smart grid infrastructures constitutes secure data acquisition to prevent widely explored false data injection attacks. In this paper, we design, implement, and deploy a trusted sensing base (TSB) that enhances the security capabilities of traditional commodity power system sensors via enabling them to encrypt analog ac signals at data acquisition points. Nowadays, data encryption occurs at phasor measurement units (PMUs) after the measurements are sampled and digitalized at the analog-to-digital devices. Through pushing the encryption to within the sensors, TSB reduces the size of trusted computing base for the whole smart grid infrastructure and hence increases its trustworthiness. We have developed a hardware working prototype of TSB in a real-world power system test-bed, including PMUs and energy management systems. Results are very promising for practical real-world deployments. TSB encrypts analog signals on the sensor side and retrieves a very accurate estimate of them on the global positioning system-synchronized control center side with minimal latency.

Deconvolution of potentiometric SECM images recorded with high scan rate

In order to image rapidly changing systems with the Scanning Electrochemical Microscope (SECM), high scan rate must be used, otherwise by the time the scan is completed, major changes in the studied system would have occured. But if the scan rate is too high, there is not enough time for the detector to reach equilibrium before the signal is recorded at a given data acquisition point, and the image will be distorted. This is a problem especially in potentiometric SECM, where the long response time of the potentiometric cell using ultramicro electrode probes imposes a limit on the maximum scan rate.In this paper we demonstrate for the first time that high scan rates combined with signal processing can be used in potentiometric SECM to keep scan time to a minimum, and still obtain high quality results by deconvoluting the raw, distorted image. A model system was studied with high scan rate, then the image was deconvoluted using the inverse of the potentiometric response function to calculate the equilibrium value for each data acquisition point from the respective observed values.

Deconvolution in Potentiometric SECM

AbstractOne of the main limitations of potentiometric scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) is the large RC time constant, and therefore long response time of the cell. A relatively long equilibration interval has to be allowed before sampling at each data acquisition point to reach equilibrium potential, and avoid image distortion. In this paper, we present a method to get high‐quality, low distortion images, without increasing scan time. The convolution function causing the distortion can be expressed from the response function of the potentiometric cell. A model system was studied with high scan rate, then the image was deconvoluted using the inverse of the potentiometric response function to calculate the equilibrium potential for each data acquisition point from the respective observed values.

Raman Microspectroscopy Demonstrates Alterations in Human Mandibular Bone after Radiotherapy

Quality and alterations in the biochemical composition of bones used for dental implantation after radiotherapy in cancer patients is always a critical and debatable factor. Clinically the irradiated bone is similar to control bone. The aim of this study was to verify any compositional alterations in human mandible bone after irradiation using Raman microspectroscopy. A total of 36 bone biopsies (21-control, 4-cancer and 11-irradiated) were investigated. Data acquisition points were determined under histopathological supervision. Both mineral and matrix constituents were analyzed by computing area associated with of phosphate (958 cm-1), carbonate (1070 cm-1) and matrix (amide I) bands. Unpaired Student’s t-test was employed to measure level of significance. Absolute mineral contents (phosphate and carbonate) were highest in cancerous specimens. Spectral profile and band-intensity calculations suggest proximity of irradiated specimens with control specimens. Significant differences in both matrix and mineral contents were observed when control/irradiated samples were compared against cancerous specimens. However, no significant differences were observed between control and irradiated groups. Irradiated bone is similar to control and cause of implant loss could be related to osteocytes of the surrounding tissue.

Nanozonation in Dense Cities: Testing a Combined Methodology in Barcelona City (Spain)

Microzonation is widely used in seismic risk evaluations to define the predominant period values, which are usually associated with extended areas of a few hundred meters. However, the representative values corresponding to these areas are obtained from few measurements in each area. Thereby, results are accurate only in the case of depth-dependent soils. However, not detected narrow and sharp lateral changes in soil are potentially the cause of imprecision and could be a source of specific errors. This article aims to present several tests conducted in order to emphasise the importance of accurate selection of points, to underscore the necessity of more precise and detailed evaluations, and to suggest a possible methodology to select the most appropriate data acquisition points. Results highlight the need to divide microzonation areas into smaller zones for a precise evaluation in locations where sudden changes in soil characteristics exist. Therefore, in such sites the requirement of nanozonation appears; defining zones with the same soil response. Distance between vibration measurements could be the main problem for nanozonation; data acquisition in areas with irregular geology can be time consuming when a precise analysis is required. In the most complicated environments or in dense cities, it could even be unfeasible. Consequently, it is necessary to establish a functional methodology to adequately distribute the measurement points throughout the area. On this occasion, three sites in Barcelona city were studied. This city is surrounded by mountains at NW, W, and S, and by the Mediterranean Sea at N and E. As a consequence, the shallow geology is characterized by many paleochannels and streams that are currently buried. These geological structures most likely affect the soil response. Several tests were carried out to determine this dependence. The tests were based on Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) surveys to define the paleochannels position and on vibration measurements in order to define properly the soil response. The results from both methods were compared to the known geology to accurately define the effect of the shallow geological structures in the predominant period and in the GPR images. Areas with the same geological unit but different materials were identified in the GPR images, allowing the selection of the most appropriate distance between vibration measurements in each place. As a final result, predominant periods that were measured over the same geological unit but over different material showed changes higher than the 40% in short distances. This procedure could improve the soil response maps, including nanozonation.

SU-E-P-25: Evaluation of First Online Application to Monitor Treatment Machines, Measurement Data and Related Job Tasks

Purpose: The movement of modern hospitals and companies towards a higher level of organization and quality control demands access to all information relevant to ones responsibilities. An environment with an ever‐increasing work‐load requires effective and timely decision making. A tool that keeps the user informed on all of his tasks is absolutely essential. Methods: The tool was evaluated based on known tasks, duties and needs of medical‐physicists. In particular was this: distinguishing between various needs in a group, monitoring of all QAs, clinics, linacs and measurement devices, using one multiple online platform, being independent of specific measurement‐devices, data import (manually, automated), data evaluation comparison (manufacturer vs. tool) and comparison of global qa criteria vs. manufacturer criteria. System‐requirements: Available for almost all os and browsers ( after 2003). Results: We found this tool to improve the overall quality on all items related to monitoring treatment machines, tasks and processes. With various user‐rights and views and by controlling and monitoring of duties everywhere and 24‐7 tools like this can set a needed standard. The technical method used for this first tool is highly advanced giving prove by being available e.g. for all os. Even complicate processes like importing from data‐files and evaluation of the data was successfully tested and demonstrate new available options. The check if a user can truly be independent of specific devices, data formats, data comparison etc. was archived and is promising. Conclusion: Using this online tool enables medical‐physicists to establish a central point of data acquisition and to manage their facilities with all the attention and speed the job requires.An online tool as common standard independent of manufacturers who have their own goals enables medical‐physicists to fulfill their job as they would want to. Herewith I, Peer Koltermann, disclose to work for P2PMPI Medical Physics Interaction offering the first online application for monitoring in medical physics.

Long-term care-service use and increases in care-need level among home-based elderly people in a Japanese urban area

ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to examine the effects of home-based long-term care insurance services on an increase in care need levels and discuss its policy implications. MethodsWe analyzed care need certification and long-term care service use data for 3006 non-institutionalized elderly persons in a Tokyo ward effective as of October 2009 and 2010. Individual care need assessment intervals and their corresponding changes in care need level were calculated from data at two data acquisition points of care need assessment. Those who had been certified but did not use any long-term care insurance service were defined as the control group. The Cox proportionate hazard model was used to determine whether the use of a long-term care insurance service is associated with increased care need level. ResultsAfter adjusting for sex, age, and care need level, the hazard ratio for the probability of increased care need level among service users was calculated as 0.75 (95% confidence interval, 0.64–0.88; p<0.001). ConclusionsHome-based long-term care service use may prevent an increase in care need level. Administrative data on care need certification and services use could be an effective tool for evaluating the long-term care insurance system.

Functional rescue of mutant ABCA1 proteins by sodium 4-phenylbutyrate

Mutations in the ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) are a major cause of decreased HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), which infers an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Many ABCA1 mutants show impaired localization to the plasma membrane. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the chemical chaperone, sodium 4-phenylbutyrate (4-PBA) could improve cellular localization and function of ABCA1 mutants. Nine different ABCA1 mutants (p.A594T, p.I659V, p.R1068H, p.T1512M, p.Y1767D, p.N1800H, p.R2004K, p.A2028V, p.Q2239N) expressed in HEK293 cells, displaying different degrees of mislocalization to the plasma membrane and discrete impacts on cholesterol efflux, were subject to treatment with 4-PBA. Treatment restored localization to the plasma membrane and increased cholesterol efflux function for the majority of mutants. Treatment with 4-PBA also increased ABCA1 protein expression in all transfected cell lines. In fibroblast cells obtained from low HDL-C subjects expressing two of the ABCA1 mutants (p.R1068H and p.N1800H), 4-PBA increased cholesterol efflux without any increase in ABCA1 expression. Our study is the first to investigate the effect of the chemical chaperone, 4-PBA on ABCA1 and shows that it is capable of restoring plasma membrane localization and enhancing the cholesterol efflux function of mutant ABCA1s both in vitro and ex vivo. These results suggest 4-PBA may warrant further investigation as a potential therapy for increasing cholesterol efflux and HDL-C levels.

Status and Spatial Visualization of Toxic Pollutants (BTEX) in Urban Atmosphere

This is a study of visualization of positive data of by Positive Modified Quadratic Shepard (PMQS) method. This data visualization tool was implemented successfully in MATLAB using both recorded pollutants levels and geological coordinates of data acquisition points located in different localities of the metropolitan. These points were located in/around the potential air emissions sources like vehicular transport, industrial sector and residential sector dispersed all around the city Field measurements were carried for 12 hour (day time) at eight points each. An online VOC analyzer was used during field campaign to collect data of hazardous organic pollutants like benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene, xylene (BTEX). Constant concentration curves were generated in form of contour plots showing latitude, longitude and spatial distribution of recorded atmospheric pollutants.

Hydro-MRI of the Small Bowel: Effect of Contrast Volume, Timing of Contrast Administration, and Data Acquisition on Bowel Distention

The purpose of this study was to assess oral contrast agents, volumes of the agents, and time points of data acquisition in regard to small-bowel distention and patient acceptance. Six healthy volunteers underwent imaging on 16 different days. Four volumes (450, 900, 1,350, and 1,800 mL) of each of the four contrast compounds (0.2% locust bean gum plus 2.5% mannitol, VoLumen containing 2.0% sorbitol, VoLumen containing 1.4% sorbitol, and tap water) were used. Two-dimensional true fast imaging with steady-state free precession data sets were acquired at 5-minute intervals after contrast ingestion. Distention values for small-bowel segments (duodenum, proximal and distal jejunum, ileum) and occurrence of side effects were documented. Analysis of bowel distention revealed significantly greater distention for all carbohydrate sugar alcohol-containing solutions compared with water but no significant difference among the three contrast agents. Sufficient duodenal distention was achieved with 900 mL of any of the contrast agents, but imaging had to be performed soon after ingestion. For MRI of the distal jejunum and ileum, a volume of 1,350 mL is preferable, and the time point of data acquisition plays a minor role. Ingestion of 1,800 mL of the carbohydrate sugar alcohol solutions led to a significantly higher rate of side effects such as abdominal cramps than did ingestion of smaller volumes. The data indicate that sufficient contrast consumption and optimal timing of data acquisition are essential to distention of the small bowel. Oral contrast agent protocols should be adapted to the bowel region in question.

Techbits: Evaluating Test Methods for Exploratory Wells

Well-testing strategies and management approaches to achieve evaluation objectives in the best technical and most economical way generated intense interest among Applied Technology Workshop (ATW) participants in Puerto la Cruz, Venezuela. The 3-day ATW "Testing Exploratory Wells: Rig or Rigless?" prompted a sharing of field experiences and opinions among professionals and industry experts through presentations and discussion, as well as a survey conducted during the workshop. The technical program comprised six sessions (Exploratory-Well Evaluation Needs, Well-Testing Environment, Perforating and Testing Management, Drillstem Testing (DST) and Rigless Testing Evaluation, Testing-Method Economic Evaluation, and Well-Test Design) including field cases from eastern Venezuela and other locations. A number of conclusions were drawn from the presentations and survey, including:DST is suggested to test exploration wells.Eighty percent of survey participants use DST.Elements in support of the DST approach are the following:Quality of derived layer evaluation justifies rig time.It supports safety objectives.It has a high degree of uncertainty associated with formation response.Operational contingencies can be implemented quickly.Such a method is imperative in high-pressure/high-temperature wells. It was also concluded that independent of approach, the use of DST is also dependent on safety, environmental, and expected operational risk conditions while testing. The remaining 20% of survey participants did not disagree on using DST but suggested consideration of rigless testing in case the uncertainties on expected formation testing response are low. Comments included these:Replace DST with permanent-completion testing when dealing with layers of low uncertainty of expected testing response for benefit of savings in rig time and the possibility of an extended test.Layer-evaluation results derived from an integrated study must define an appropriate testing strategy, either DST or permanent-completion testing.In the case of exploratory wells penetrating a zone consisting of known and exploratory layers, DST is suggested for the exploratory layers and permanent-completion testing for the others.Layer-evaluation testing cost associated with DST is higher than that for rigless testing. From an operational and well-testing data-acquisition point of view, the advantages of DST over rigless testing lie in perforating efficiency, data measurement quality, testing operational flexibility, a reliable downhole shut-in tool, flexible underbalance pressure for perforating, and fluid-characterization quality. The advantage of rigless testing is that rig time is not a factor to consider when deciding on testing time duration of flowing and buildup periods. It also makes the rig available for other pending jobs. Present well-testing technology in use by international operators in Venezuela includes both rig-based and rigless technology. Cochaired by Celia Bejarano of PDVSA and Giovanni Da Prat of Da Prat y Asociados, the Technical Program Committee included Wilton Guevara of Schlumberger; Antonio Carmona, Jorge Daza, Boris Garcia, Victor Garcia, Sergio Inciarte, Luis A. Jimenez, and Miguel A. Salazar, all of PDVSA; Pedro Chira of Halliburton; and Mauricio Moreno of Baker Oil Tools.

COMPARISON OF RADIOGRAPHIC AND COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY LYMPHANGIOGRAPHY FOR IDENTIFICATION OF THE CANINE THORACIC DUCT

Standard radiographic lymphangiograms and computed tomography (CT) lymphangiograms were performed on 10 female dogs without intrathoracic disease. Positive contrast lymphagiography was performed by injection into a catheterized mesenteric lymphatic vessel, and lateral thoracic radiographs, ventrodorsal thoracic radiographs, and thoracic CTs were obtained. The number of visible ducts was recorded for each image at the midbody of the ninth thoracic vertebra (T9) through the first lumbar vertebra (L1). Data were combined for all dogs at each data acquisition point. Data were analyzed by comparing data from all three images independently, and then by combining data for the radiographs and comparing the study with the highest number of visible duct branches to the CT. Significant differences in numbers of branches were found at T11 and L1. This study suggests that CT may be able to quantify branches of the thoracic duct more accurately than standard radiographic lymphangiography.

The development and implementation of a computerized database for clinical research in minimal access surgery. An international pilot study.

The measurement of outcomes after minimal access surgery (MAS) relies on the maintenance of an accurate, prospective clinical database. The development of a system for data management often proves to be challenging, expensive, and extremely time-consuming. We developed a computerized relational database for MAS using Microsoft Access 97 to reside on a hospital server, taking advantage of existing network connections, security, and backup systems. The design of the database includes a point-and-click approach with dropdown boxes for diagnoses, procedures, and complications (limited free-text entry). A fundamental feature of this database allows surgeons and surgical trainees to record clinical information at the point and time of data acquisition. A "beta version" or fully functional draft of the database was presented to a group of surgeons from a variety of specialties (n = 8), and a structured interview based on a questionnaire was used to elicit the surgeon's evaluations of the database. Using the information from the interviews, the database was extensively revised and restructured. We have developed a relational database that reflects the needs of surgeons interested in clinical research. This database may serve as a template for other centers. It can be expanded to adopt new procedures or modified for other surgical specialties.

An Indentation Theory Based on FEA Solutions for Property Evaluation

A novel indentation theory is proposed by examining the data from the incremental plasticity theory based finite element analyses. First the optimal data acquisition location is selected, where the strain gradient is the least and the effect of friction is negligible. This data acquisition point increases the strain range by a factor of five. Numerical regressions of obtained data exhibit that strain hardening exponent and yield strain are the two main parameters which govern the subindenter deformation characteristics. The new indentation theory successfully provides the stress-strain curve with an average error less than 5%.

The measurement of power losses at high magnetic field densities or at small cross-section of test specimen using the averaging

It is difficult to achieve sufficient accuracy of power loss measurement at high magnetic field densities where the magnetic field strength gets more and more distorted, or in cases where the influence of noise increases (small specimen cross section). The influence of averaging on the accuracy of power loss measurement was studied on the cast amorphous magnetic material Metglas 2605-TCA. The results show that the accuracy of power loss measurements can be improved by using the averaging of data acquisition points.

The Elimination of Baseline Distortions Induced by Audio Filters

An analysis of the spectral baseline distortion caused by the transient effect of an audio filter is presented. Proper adjusting of the starting point of data acquisition and data processing are explained. A technique ensuring perfect elimination of distortion for any audio filter is proposed.

Low‐temperature SEM studies of beam‐induced voltage contrast in YBCO thin films

AbstractBeam‐induced voltage contrast has been demonstrated in a superconducting thin film of YBa2Cu3O7‐x (YBCO) grown on MgO. Copper‐rich inclusions in the material contribute to spatially varying resistive behaviour but do not account for all the observed details. A new method of scanning in which the beam was moved away from the sample between each data acquisition point was found to increase the resolution by limiting thermalisation, to allow imaging of resistive features as small as 0.5 μm. Direct comparisons of beam‐induced contrast and micro‐structure at 9000 times magnification were possible using simultaneous image acquisition via a purpose‐built image store. Mounting a preamplifier within the scanning electron microscope chamber, to give a variable overall gain of 1000–100,000, was also found to significantly improve the signal‐to‐noise ratio.