In sensor network applications, measured data are often meaningful only when the location is accurately known. In this booklet, we study research problems associated with node localization in wireless sensor networks. We describe sensor network localization problems in terms of a detection and estimation framework and we emphasize specifically a cooperative process where sensors with known locations are used to localize nodes at unknown locations. In this class of problems, even if the location of a node is known, the wireless links and transmission modalities between two nodes may be unknown. In this case, sensor nodes are used to detect the location and estimate pertinent data transmission activities between nodes. In addition to the broader problem of sensor localization, this booklet studies also specific localization measurements such as time of arrival (TOA), received signal strength (RSS), and direction of arrival (DOA). The sequential localization algorithm, which uses a subset of sensor nodes to estimate nearby sensor nodes' locations is discussed in detail. Extensive bibliography is given for those readers who want to delve further into specific topics.

Autonomous vehicles use global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) to provide a position within a few centimeters of truth. Centimeter positioning requires accurate measurement of each satellite's direct path propagation time. Multipath corrupts the propagation time estimate by creating a time-varying bias. A GNSS receiver model is developed and the effects of multipath are investigated. MATLABtm code is provided to enable readers to run simple GNSS receiver simulations. More specifically, GNSS signal models are presented and multipath mitigation techniques are described for various multipath conditions. Appendices are included in the booklet to derive some of the basics on early minus late code synchronization methods. Details on the numerically controlled oscillator and its properties are also given in the appendix.

This monograph introduces some current developments in the modelling of the spread of tick-borne diseases. Effective modelling requires the integration of multiple frameworks. Here, particular attention is given to the previously neglected issues of tick developmental and behavioral diapause, tick-borne pathogen co-feeding transmission, and their interactions. An introduction to the required basics of structured population formulations and delay differential equations is given, and topics for future study are suggested. The described techniques will also be useful in the study of other vector-borne diseases. The ultimate aim of this project is to develop a general qualitative framework leading to tick-borne disease risk predictive tools and a decision support system. The target audience is mathematical biologists interested in modelling tick population dynamics and tick-borne disease transmission, and developing computational tools for disease prevention and control.

Complexity, Analysis and Control of Singular Biological Systems follows the control of real-world biological systems at both ecological and phyisological levels concentrating on the application of now-extensively-investigated singular system theory. Much effort has recently been dedicated to the modelling and analysis of developing bioeconomic systems and the text establishes singular examples of these, showing how proper control can help to maintain sustainable economic development of biological resources. The book begins from the essentials of singular systems theory and bifurcations before tackling the use of various forms of control in singular biological systems using examples including predator-prey relationships and viral vaccination and quarantine control. Researchers and graduate students studying the control of complex biological systems are shown how a variety of methods can be brought to bear and practitioners working with the economics of biological systems and their control will also find the monograph illuminating.

Increased Cu levels in blood, saliva and brain are found in Mn-exposed animals and humans; the underlying mechanism is unknown. Dyshomeostasis of Cu in the central nervous system is known to contribute to the pathogeneses of several neurodegenerative diseases. Regulation of cellular Cu homeostasis involves Cu-transporting ATPases (Cu-ATPases), i.e., ATP7A and ATP7b. Both transporters play an important role in removing excess Cu ions from the cytosol. However, the questions as to whether and how Cu-ATPases in the brain barrier systems transport Cu, i.e., toward brain parenchyma, cerebrospinal fluid, or blood, and whether and how Mn exposure affects the transport function of both Cu-ATPases, remained unanswered. This study was designed to characterize the role of Cu-ATPases in regulating Cu transport at the blood-brain and blood-cerebrospinal fluid barriers and to investigate how exposure to Mn may alter the function of ATP7A and ATP7B, thereby contributing to the etiology of Mn-induced Parkinsonian disorder.

Due to intense competition and rapid changes happening in the marketplace, business environment is increasingly becoming volatile and uncertain. As a result, the ability to conduct effective environmental scanning is becoming critical for organizations to survive and succeed. This study investigates environmental scanning and information sharing practices of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Singapore. A pre-tested questionnaire was sent out, and 45 SMEs from 4 industries participated. It was found that a majority of the companies perceived environmental information as critical, and conduct systematic environmental scanning activities. The management level of SMEs had become aware of the importance of information sharing, and efforts had been made to avoid information hoarding. Moreover, SMEs from various industry domains seemed to have different scanning strategies and manners, in terms of preferences over information sources and distribution channels. Suggestions are also provided to increase the effectiveness of environmental scanning, as the collected information may not be disseminated to the end-users in a timely manner.