本篇論文的目的在介紹階層貝氏之時間與空間統計模式(spatio-temporal model)，將此模式應用在疾病地圖的分析，以了解疾病在空間上的分佈狀態與時間趨勢。模型中除了納入時間、空間和年齡的效應外，也包括時間與空間、時間與年齡的交互作用，並考慮到空間相關性(spatial correlation)，然後以DIC值(Deviance information criterion)作為模式選取的準則。 本文並以民國88-90年全身紅斑性狼瘡的女性患病人數做為實證分析的資料。配適時間與空間統計模式後，以馬可夫鏈蒙地卡羅法(MCMC)來模擬參數值，估計出各時間、地區、年齡層的對數疾病發生率。由疾病地圖可看出，台灣地區全身紅斑性狼瘡的女性疾病發生率，以20-59歲的年齡層發生率較高，0-19歲的發生率較低。不管在哪一個年齡層，北部和中部地區的發生率都是最高的。時間趨勢方面，88-90年整體疾病發生率有遞減的趨勢，60歲以上的發生率也是遞減的趨勢。但在部分地區，則有發生率遞增的趨勢。 / In this study, we introduce the spatio-temporal model in a hierarchical Bayesian framework and use disease maps to display the spatial patterns and the temporal trends of disease. A special feature of the model is the inclusion of spatial correlations used to examine spatial effects relative to both regional and regional changes over time by group. Then, we use deviance information criterion (DIC) to compare complex hierarchical models. The methodology is illustrated by an analysis of female Systemic Lupls Erythematosus (SLE) morbidity data in Taiwan during the period 1999-2001.The model inference is implemented using Markov chain Monte Carlo method. The outcomes of the practical analysis appear that the higher morbidity rate occurs in 20-year and 40-year period. No matter what age group, the morbidity rate is highest in the north and the middle of Taiwan. Furthermore, the morbidity rate decreases with respect to year as well as over the 60-year period but it increases in some places.

Indications are that autonomic under-arousal exists in children with ADHD. Published results are, however, controversial and few studies examine the relationship between the autonomic nervous system and focussed attention. In line with the indications of sympathetic under-arousal, patients with the disorder are treated with sympathomimetic stimulants such as Ritalin (methylphenidate). Since these medications stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, they possess the potential to influence cardiac function. The aims of this study were a) to assess autonomic nervous system functioning in 20 children with ADHD, as compared to controls, and to examine the effects of focussed attention and sympathomimetic medication on this system, b) to investigate cardiac functioning in 20 children with ADHD, as compared to controls, and to examine the effects of sympathomimetic medication on this system and c) to assess EEG functioning in children with ADHD, as compared to controls, and to examine the effects of sympathomimetic medication on this functioning. Children with ADHD were tested while they were stimulant-free and during a period in which they were on stimulant medication, while controls were tested once. Autonomic nervous system activity of the children was assessed at baseline and during focussed attention by means of heart rate variability (HRV) and skin conductivity. Attention was evoked by means of a program on the BioGraph Infiniti biofeedback apparatus, which is used specifically to train ADHD individuals to increase their attentive abilities. HRV was determined by time-domain, frequency-domain and Poincaré analysis of RR interval data. Skin conductivity was determined by BioGraph Infiniti biofeedback apparatus. Cardiac functioning of the children was assessed at baseline by means of blood pressure recordings and electrocardiograms (ECGs). Blood pressure was measured by means of a stethoscope and mercurial sphygmomanometer. ECGs were obtained by means of a Schiller CardioLaptop AT-110 ECG recorder using the standard 12-lead cable positioning for a resting ECG and parameters measured included HR, RR, QT, JT, QTc, JTc, QTd, JTd, QTcd and JTcd. EEG values were determined at baseline and during focussed attention by means of BioGraph Infiniti biofeedback apparatus. EEG values measured in this study included theta/beta ratios, theta/SMR ratios and thalpha, low alpha and high alpha power. The main findings of this study are that: <ul> <li>Stimulant-free ADHD children show a parasympathetic dominance of the sympathovagal balance relative to controls.</li> <li>Methylphenidate usage shifts the autonomic balance of children with ADHD towards normal levels; however a normal autonomic balance is not reached.</li> <li>Stimulant-free ADHD children exhibit a shift in the sympathovagal balance towards the sympathetic nervous system from baseline to focussed attention; however, methylphenidate abolishes this shift.</li> <li>Methylphenidate usage does not, in general, cause QTc or JTc prolongation but it may cause QTc or JTc prolongation in susceptible individuals.</li> <li>Children with ADHD can not be differentiated from normal children on the basis of theta/beta ratios, theta/SMR ratios or alpha power.</li> <li>Methylphenidate increases the level of centering in children with ADHD.</li> <li>Stimulant-free ADHD children display an alpha block from baseline to focussed attention; however, methylphenidate abolishes this alpha block.</li></ul> Copyright / Dissertation (MSc)--University of Pretoria, 2009. / Physiology / unrestricted

Tato diplomová práce představuje koncept elektrického invalidního vozíku ovládaného lidskou myslí. Tento koncept je určen pro osoby, které elektrický invalidní vozík nemohou ovládat klasickými způsoby, jakým je například joystick. V práci jsou popsány čtyři hlavní komponenty konceptu: elektroencefalograf, brain-computer interface (rozhraní mozek-počítač), systém sdílené kontroly a samotný elektrický invalidní vozík. V textu je představena použitá metodologie a výsledky provedených experimentů. V závěru jsou nastíněna doporučení pro budoucí vývoj.

Subject of this thesis is design of the steam generator for modular reactor. The dissertation consist of the theoretical part, where are described heat-exchangers and steam generators used in nuclear power plants. Second part contains theoretical calculations in the first approach (thermal, hydraulic and strenght calculation). In the next part are particular variants of steam generator selected. For the final variant are necessary calculations (introduced above) and drawings of selected parts are done. In the final statement is technical solution evaluated, and the parameters of the steam generator are compared with actually used steam generators.

The demand for fossil-free energy production is rising due to electrification and increased consumption in the energy system. There are also multiple climate goals to reach, to preserve the possibilities of a sustainable future. A response to this is the BWRX-300, a natural circulation boiling water small modular reactor (SMR) concept developed by GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy. It is currently at the forefront of study for many power utility companies around the world. For decision making it is of interest to investigate the capabilities of new facilities. This Master Thesis work's aim is to study the BWRX-300 reactor's feasibility together with evaluating and optimizing its performance using the core simulation softwares Casmo5 and Simulate5. This is carried out by first verifying Simulate5's natural circulation capabilities by modifying an existing forced-circulation reactor to natural circulation, then comparing simulation results to real world data.  Next a comprehensive model of the BWRX-300 reactor pressure vessel is modelled and validated. Equilibrium cores for 12- and 24-month cycle lengths are then simulated where key reactor performance metrics such as fuel economy, safety margins, axial profiles (of voids and pressure drop) and reactor characteristics are extracted. The effect of different fuel assembly designs in the BWRX-300 reactor core is investigated to find first core design optimums. Furthermore the decay heat removal system in the BWRX-300 is investigated. Lastly the results are used to evaluate the optimal operating mode given the current and future more dynamic projected state of the energy system.  The results show that there are no real technical difficulties while operating the BWRX-300 reactor for 12 or 24 months. The decay heat removal system and core flow characteristics provide abundant coolant flow to maintain long term fuel integrity during both normal and abnormal operation modes. More or less routine core design optimization work is required to obtain sufficient safety margins and improve fuel economy. It is observed that the smaller reactor core requires an increase in average fuel enrichment to maintain criticality throughout the cycle, potentially creating an incentive to raise the current licensing limit. However it is deemed possible to avoid this by conducting further fuel design optimization work.

Ce manuscrit présente l'intégration conjointe d'un banc de mesure de bruit de phase et de résonateurs BAW sur lesquels doit s'effectuer la mesure. Une tendance actuelle vise à intégrer à côté de systèmes plus ou moins complexes, des circuits permettant d'en faciliter les tests. L'intégration du banc de mesure de bruit de phase permet de nous affranchir des contraintes provenant de la mesure externe sous pointes et du coût élevé associé. L'intégration simultanée des circuits de tests avec les systèmes à mesurer, permet également d'exploiter pleinement les possibilités d'appariement de composants disponibles sur un même substrat. Ce type de mesure On-Chip simplifie considérablement la procédure de test, en minimisant l'utilisation de matériel de mesure externe encombrant et de coût élevé. Elle évite aussi les dispersions inhérentes à l'utilisation de composants discrets externes, offrant la possibilité de suivre facilement l'évolution des caractéristiques du système, soit dans le temps, soit après divers types de dégradations. Cette mesure intégrée conduit naturellement à la conception de circuits autotestables, et donc autoreconfigurables. Notre travail de thèse a consisté à définir l'architecture, ainsi que le dimensionnement des différents éléments du banc de mesure, en fonction de la précision de mesure souhaitée. Nous avons montrer qu'un système d'instrumentation performant peut s'intégrer dans une technologie SiGe standard.

The goal of this investigation was to explore the efficacy of implementing a rehabilitation robot controlled by a noninvasive brain-computer interface (BCI) to influence brain plasticity and facilitate motor learning. The motivation of this project stemmed from the need to address the population of stroke survivors who have few or no options for therapy. A stroke occurs every 40 seconds in the United States and it is the leading cause of long-term disability [1-3]. In a country where the elderly population is growing at an astounding rate, one in six persons above the age of 55 is at risk of having a stroke. Internationally, the rates of strokes and stroke-induced disabilities are comparable to those of the United States [1, 4-6]. Approximately half of all stroke survivors suffer from immediate unilateral paralysis or weakness, 30-60% of which never regain function [1, 6-9]. Many individuals who survive stroke will be forced to seek institutional care or long-term assistance. Clinicians have typically implemented stroke rehabilitative treatment using active training techniques such as constraint induced movement therapy (CIMT) and robotic therapy [10-12]. Such techniques restore motor activity by forcing the movement of weakened limbs. That active engagement of the weakened limb movement stimulates neural pathways and activates the motor cortex, thus inducing brain plasticity and motor learning. Several studies have demonstrated that active training does in fact have an effect on the way the brain restores itself and leads to faster rehabilitation [10, 13-15]. In addition, studies involving mental practice, another form of rehabilitation, have shown that mental imagery directly stimulates the brain, but is not effective unless implemented as a supplemental to active training [16, 17]. Only stroke survivors retaining residual motor ability are able to undergo active rehabilitative training; the current selection of therapies has overlooked the significant population of stroke survivors suffering from severe control loss or complete paralysis [6, 10]. A BCI is a system or device that detects minute changes in brain signals to facilitate communication or control. In this investigation, the BCI was implemented through an electroencephalograph (EEG) device. EEG devices detect electrical brain signals transmitted through the scalp that corresponded with imagined motor activity. Within the BCI, a linear transformation algorithm converted EEG spectral features into control commands for an upper-limb rehabilitative robot, thus implementing a closed-looped feedback-control training system. The concept of the BCI-robot system implemented in this investigation may provide an alternative to current therapies by demonstrating the results of bypassing motor activity using brain signals to facilitate robotic therapy. In this study, 24 able-bodied volunteers were divided into two study groups; one group trained to use sensorimotor rhythms (SMRs) (produced by imagining motor activity) to control the movement of a robot and the other group performed the 'guided-imagery' task of watching the robot move without control. This investigation looked for contrasts between the two groups that showed that the training involved with controlling the BCI-robot system had an effect on brain plasticity and motor learning. To analyze brain plasticity and motor learning, EEG data corresponding to imagined arm movement and motor learning were acquired before, during, and after training. Features extracted from the EEG data consisted of frequencies in the 5-35Hz range, which produced amplitude fluctuations that were measurably significant during reaching. Motor learning data consisted of arm displacement measures (error) produced during an motor adaptation task performed daily by all subjects. The results of the brain plasticity analysis showed persistent reductions in beta activity for subjects in the BCI group. The analysis also showed that subjects in the Non-BCI group had significant reductions in mu activity; however, these results were likely due to the fact that different EEG caps were used in each stage of the study. These results were promising but require further investigation. The motor learning data showed that the BCI group out-performed non-BCI group in all measures of motor learning. These findings were significant because this was the first time a BCI had been applied to a motor learning protocol and the findings suggested that BCI had an influence on the speed at which subjects adapted to a motor learning task. Additional findings suggested that BCI subjects who were in the 40 and over age group had greater decreases in error after the learning phase of motor assessment. These finding suggests that BCI could have positive long term effects on individuals who are more likely to suffer from a stroke and possibly could be beneficial for chronic stroke patients. In addition to exploring the effects of BCI training on brain plasticity and motor learning this investigation sought to detect whether the EEG features produced during guided-imagery could differentiate between reaching direction. While the analysis presented in this project produced classification accuracies no greater than ~77%, it formed the basis of future studies that would incorporate different pattern recognition techniques. The results of this study show the potential for developing new rehabilitation therapies and motor learning protocols that incorporate BCI.

Les systèmes publics de santé nécessitent des capteurs miniaturisés pour l'amélioration des diagnostics médicaux. Dans ce contexte, l'objectif de cette thèse était de simuler, réaliser et caractériser des résonateurs à ondes acoustiques de volume à base de couches minces, vibrant en mode de cisaillement à 800 MHz et montés sur miroir acoustique (SMR), et de démontrer leur capacité à fonctionner comme capteurs gravimétriques en milieu liquide.<br /><br />Trois procédés de dépôt par pulvérisation de couches de ZnO à axe c incliné ont été développés. De telles couches sont nécessaires pour l'excitation d'ondes de cisaillement et essentielles pour un fonctionnement en milieu liquide. Des inclinaisons jusqu'à 16° ont été obtenues avec une incidence oblique des particules en utilisant des caches additionnels. Des couches homogènes ont été déposées sur la surface entière d'un wafer 4“. Des outils de simulation et de caractérisation ont permis d'optimiser les SMRs, améliorant le coefficient de couplage de 0.012 à 0.149 et le facteur de qualité de 3.5 à 230. Leur application dans des solutions de glycérol a montré qu'ils se prêtent à la détection gravimétrique et comme viscosimètres. Des mesures de liaisons anticorps-antigènes en milieu liquide ont été réalisées avec succès. Comparées à des microbalances à quartz vibrant à 10 MHz, la sensibilité est 1000 fois plus grande et la résolution est 4 fois meilleure.<br /><br />Les SMRs sont hautement sensibles, peuvent être intégrés à des systèmes électroniques, et permettent des mesures quantitatives avec de bonnes résolutions. Ces nanobalances à couche piézoélectrique pourront former le noyau de systèmes portables et bon marché pour le diagnostic médical.

Cílem práce bylo vytvořit základní koncept integrovaného výměníku tepla pro solí chlazený reaktor vyvíjený společností Terrestrial Energy s využitím programu Promex. První kapitola se zabývá historií a současnou situací v oblasti výzkumu malých modulárních reaktorů chlazených fluoridovými solemi. Ve druhé kapitole jsou popsány vlastnosti fluoridových solí a konstrukčních materiálů. Poslední kapitola se zabývá simulací tepelného výměníku pomocí programu Promex, validací modelu, transformací protiproudého výměníku na výměník s U trubkami a vizualizací výměníku s použitím CAD Invetoru.