PURE: A Framework for Analyzing Proximity-based Contact Tracing Protocols

Many proximity-based tracing (PCT) protocols have been proposed and deployed to combat the spreading of COVID-19. In this article, we take a systematic approach to analyze PCT protocols. We identify a list of desired properties of a contact tracing design from the four aspects of Privacy, Utility, Resiliency, and Efficiency (PURE). We also identify two main design choices for PCT protocols: what information patients report to the server and which party performs the matching . These two choices determine most of the PURE properties and enable us to conduct a comprehensive analysis and comparison of the existing protocols.

Modelling, Simulation, and Implementation of Effective Controller for KY Stepping Up Converter

This paper studies on a new Hybrid Posicast Control (HPC) for Fundamental KY Boost Converter (FKYBC) worked in Continuous Current Mode (CCM). Posicast is a feed-forward compensator. It reduces the overshoot in the step result of the flippantly damped plant. But the conventional controller approach is sensitive owing to the changes in the natural frequency. So, as to reduce this undesirable sensitivity and load potential control of FKYBC, a HPC is designed in this article. Structure of HPC is posicast with feedback loop. The independent computational time delay is the main design function of the posicast. The enactment of the FKYBC with HPC is confirmed at various operating regions by making the MATLAB/Simulink and experimental model. The posicast function values are implemented in Arduino Uno-ATmega328P microcontroller. The results of new HPC have produced minimal noise in control signal in comparison with traditional PID control.

Analysis of design parameters of round-window stimulating type electromagnetic transducer by a nonlinear lumped parameter model of implanted human ear

<abstract> <p>Round-window stimulating transducer is a new solution to treat mixed hearing loss. To uncover the factors affecting the round-window stimulation's performance, we investigated the influence of four main design parameters of round-window stimulating type electromagnetic transducer. Firstly, we constructed a human ear nonlinear lumped parameter model and confirmed its validity by comparing the stapes responses predicted by the model with the experimental data. Following this, an electromagnetic transducer's mechanical model, which simulates the floating mass transducer, was built and coupled to the human ear model; thereby, we established a nonlinear lumped parameter model of implanted human ear under round-window stimulation and verified its reliability. Finally, based on this model, the influences of the four main design parameters, i.e., the excitation voltage, the electromechanical coupling coefficient, the support stiffness, and the preload force, were analyzed. The results show that the change of excitation voltage does not alter the system's natural frequency. Chaotic motion occurs when the electromechanical coupling coefficient is small. Meanwhile, the stapes displacement appears to increase firstly and then decrease with the increase of the electromechanical coupling coefficient. The increase of the support stiffness enlarges the resonance frequency of the stapes displacement and reduces the stapes displacement near the resonance frequency, deteriorating the transducer's hearing compensation at low frequency. The preload force can improve the transducer's hearing compensation performance in mid-high frequency region.</p> </abstract>

PORTABLE SEISMIC SYSTEMS (OVERVIEW)

The review presents a survey of the current state of development of portable (transportable) guard and reconnaissance-signaling seismic systems. The features of application and advantages of such systems over stationary are shown, the general trends in the design of the portable guard and reconnaissance-signaling systems are to described. Their main design features and characteristics serially produced for civilian and military use are given.

Assessment of the strength of the cabin mounting elements of the high-capacity wheeled chassis

The article deals with the issues of modeling the stress-strain state of the attachment points of the cab of a wheeled chassis of high load capacity. The main design loads are determined. Geometric and computational finite element models are constructed, taking into account the features of the metal structure. The technique of gluing elements of the grid model is applied. The contact interaction of the parts is taken into account. Based on the calculations performed, conclusions are drawn about the compliance of the developed structure with the strength requirements.

Structural analysis of freight car lever transmission with parallel shoe releasing devices taking into account the edge contact of the shoe and wheel

The article deals with the issues of modeling the stress-strain state of the attachment points of the cab of a wheeled chassis of high load capacity. The main design loads are determined. Geometric and computational finite element models are constructed, taking into account the features of the metal structure. The technique of gluing elements of the grid model is applied. The contact interaction of the parts is taken into account. Based on the calculations performed, conclusions are drawn about the compliance of the developed structure with the strength requirements.

Colour psychology in retirement homes

<p>As the population of New Zealand ages demand and popularity of retirement homes is increasing. This thesis argues that interior spaces of retirement homes can become more interesting and stimulating through the use of colour, and that a simple colour redesign of the common shared areas could achieve great benefits for the users. The main aim of this study is to explore how to create healing and comforting environment in retirement homes using colour as the main design driver. Based on the literature review it was possible to establish four key design colour strategies of healing; Views of nature, natural light, soothing colours and colours promoting interaction. Based on these, a series of design experiments were undertaken, developing a new set of approaches of how colour can be used in the interior design. Some of the design explorations were not focused on a particular site, but some considered the limitations of a possible site. The study succeeded in redesigning the selected site through a creative application of the four key design strategies of healing, but also supported development of a set of findings on how to use colour strategies more effectively in retirement homes. One of the key findings of this study is that the use of bright and saturated colour could prevent adverse effect of sensory deprivation associated with aging. This could have broader applications in interior architecture.</p>

Colour psychology in retirement homes

<p>As the population of New Zealand ages demand and popularity of retirement homes is increasing. This thesis argues that interior spaces of retirement homes can become more interesting and stimulating through the use of colour, and that a simple colour redesign of the common shared areas could achieve great benefits for the users. The main aim of this study is to explore how to create healing and comforting environment in retirement homes using colour as the main design driver. Based on the literature review it was possible to establish four key design colour strategies of healing; Views of nature, natural light, soothing colours and colours promoting interaction. Based on these, a series of design experiments were undertaken, developing a new set of approaches of how colour can be used in the interior design. Some of the design explorations were not focused on a particular site, but some considered the limitations of a possible site. The study succeeded in redesigning the selected site through a creative application of the four key design strategies of healing, but also supported development of a set of findings on how to use colour strategies more effectively in retirement homes. One of the key findings of this study is that the use of bright and saturated colour could prevent adverse effect of sensory deprivation associated with aging. This could have broader applications in interior architecture.</p>

Toward enzyme-responsive polymersome drug delivery

In drug delivery, enzyme-responsive drug carriers are becoming increasingly relevant because of the growing association of disease pathology with enzyme overexpression. Polymersomes are of interest to such applications because of their tunable properties. While polymersomes open up a wide range of chemical and physical properties to explore, they also present a challenge in developing generalized rules for the synthesis of novel systems. Motivated by this issue, in this perspective, we summarize the existing knowledge on enzyme-responsive polymersomes and outline the main design choices. Then, we propose heuristics to guide the design of novel systems. Finally, we discuss the potential of an integrated approach using computer simulations and experimental studies to streamline this design process and close the existing knowledge gaps.

Reducing the noise level of power transformers

The results of studies of the noise of power transformers at the enterprises of the machine-building complex are presented in this paper. The causes of the noise of power transformers are identified, the analysis is made, and the main design indicators affected the increase in the sound power level of high-voltage converters are determined. Based on the analysis of design indicators, organizational and technical measures are proposed for improving reliability and accident-free operation of power transformers, as well as reduction of the noise level of power transformers.