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Underwater acoustic sensor network (UASN) offers a promising solution for exploring underwater resources remotely. For getting a better understanding of sensed data, accurate localization is essential. As the UASN acoustic channel is open and the environment is hostile, the risk of malicious activities is very high, particularly in time-critical military applications. Since the location estimation with false data ends up in wrong positioning, it is necessary to identify and ignore such data to ensure data integrity. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a novel anomaly detection system for UASN localization. To minimize computational power and storage, we designed separate anomaly detection schemes for sensor nodes and anchor nodes. We propose an auto-regressive prediction-based scheme for detecting anomalies at sensor nodes. For anchor nodes, a fuzzy inference system is designed to identify the presence of anomalous behavior. The detection schemes are implemented at every node for enabling identification of multiple and duplicate anomalies at its origin. We simulated the network, modeled anomalies and analyzed the performance of detection schemes at anchor nodes and sensor nodes. The results indicate that anomaly detection systems offer an acceptable accuracy with high true positive rate and F-Score. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An underwater acoustic sensor network (UASN) offers a promising solution for the exploration of underwater resources remotely. As the UASN acoustic channel is open and the environment is hostile, the risk of malicious activities is very high, particularly in time-critical military applications. In this paper, we propose an unsupervised anomaly detection system by learning the social behavioral correlation among nodes. The location data retrieved from sensors are learned using long short term memory (LSTM) networks to capture the anomalous nature. The network is simulated by modeling anomalies and analyzed the performance. The analysis of results indicates that the anomaly detection system offers an acceptable accuracy with high true positive rate and F-Score by showing consistency in multiple mobility behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we have proposed and analyzed an agricultural pest control system. For this purpose, an eco-epidemiological type predator–prey model has been proposed with the consideration of a sound predator population and two classes of pest populations namely susceptible pest and infected pest. Further to consider uncertainty, we modify our model and transform it into a fuzzy system with incorporation of imprecise parameters. The dynamical behavior of the proposed model has been investigated by examining the existence and stability criteria of all feasible equilibria. An optimal control problem is formed by considering the pesticide control as the control parameter and then the problem is solved both theoretically and numerically with the help of some computer simulation works. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bangladesh, currently a low middle-income economy aspires to become a high middle income country by 2021. To achieve such aspiration, the country will have to ensure adequate power supply for its fast growing economy. Bangladesh lacks energy resources for power generation. This paper explores some of the power supply scenarios with special focus on power imports and higher use of renewables. Using the technology rich, least cost optimization model 'The Integrated MARKAL-EFOM System (TIMES)', the authors developed four possible future power supply scenarios for Bangladesh. These scenarios include an energy security framework (based on the Power System Master Plan (PSMP) 2016 report), a high power import scenario, a scenario with higher use of renewables and a combined high power import - high renewables development scenario. The analysis indicates that the present energy security framework ensures energy security with diversifying fuels used for power generation, however, scenarios with high power imports and a high share of renewables (including the combined scenario) bring down the cost of supplying power along with a reduction in expensive fossil fuel imports while maintaining energy security as fuel sources for power generation still remain diversified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose and analyze a Susceptible-Vaccinated-Exposed-Infected-Recovered (SVEIR) type infectious disease model with imprecise parameters. Introducing the interval numbers in functional form, the SVEIR model is proposed and formulated. The existence of possible equilibrium points with their feasibility criteria and an explicit value of basic reproduction number is obtained. The asymptotic stability of the system at different equilibrium points are also discussed. Next by considering treatment and vaccination as two control parameters, an optimal control problem is formulated and solved. Finally, some computer simulation works are given in support of our analytical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) who also report transactional sex (male sex workers or MSWs) are known to be at higher risk for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The study aimed to profile socio-demographic characteristics and risk factors associated with high HIV prevalence among MSWs. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2008–9 among 483 high-risk MSM who attended STI clinics at Mumbai and Hyderabad, two large cities in India. Results: About 70% of the MSM reported transactional sex. As compared to other MSM, MSWs had more male partners (8.9 versus 2.5, p < 0.001) and higher rates of receptive anal sex (96% versus 72%, p < 0.001). HIV prevalence among MSWs and other MSM was 43.6% and 18.1% respectively. HIV prevalence among MSWs was associated with the place of residence (MSWs from Hyderabad were 7.3 times more likely to be infected), positive syphilis serology (3.8 times) and duration of sex work (increased by 8% for every additional year). Conclusion: The study showed that MSWs are at high risk for HIV acquisition/transmission, which highlights the need for intensified interventions for personalized risk-reduction counselling and STI screening. Newer biomedical interventions such as pre-exposure prophylaxis and treatment as prevention could also be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Female sex workers (FSWs) in India are provided a standardised package of clinical interventions for management of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A study was conducted among FSWs at known high STI prevalence sites to determine the effectiveness of the service package. Methods A cohort of FSW clinic attendees in two cities, Hyderabad and Mumbai, were enrolled and followed up from October 2008 to November 2009. At each visit, behavioural and clinical data were obtained and vaginal swabs collected for laboratory testing of cervical infections (gonorrhoea and chlamydia). Results 417 participants were enrolled, of whom 360 attended at least a follow-up visit. Prevalence of cervical infections did not change between the baseline and final visits (27.7% and 21.3% respectively, p=0.08) in spite of presumptive treatment at baseline and syndromic management at all visits. The proportion of asymptomatic cervical infections increased from 36% at baseline to 77% at the final visit. Incidence rate of cervical infections was high (85.6/100 person years) and associated with a prevalent cervical infection at baseline (HR=2.7, p<0.001) and inconsistent condom use with non-commercial partners (HR=2.5, p=0.014). Conclusions High rates of STIs persisted despite the interventions due to poor condom use, minimal partner treatment, and high prevalence and incidence of STIs with a large proportion of asymptomatic infections. High-prevalence FSW sites in India need to design more effective partner treatment strategies and consider increasing the frequency of presumptive treatment as a temporary measure for quickly reducing STI prevalence, with renewed emphasis on consistent condom use with all partners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With rising population and increasing migration to the cities, it is expected that the urban population will increase and many more metropolitan cities will arise. Urban transport will also increase due to the high growth in population, travel demand and vehicles. In this paper, we look at the growth in vehicles and travel demand up to 2020, assuming business as usual, high GDP growth and low GDP growth scenarios for Mumbai and Delhi assuming a certain population growth. The consequent energy needs and local and global environment implications are studied.The case studies demonstrate that despite similar population and higher per capita GDP, due to the higher share of public bus transport and suburban railway system, the Mumbai transport results in 60% less energy and emissions compared to Delhi. This picture may change in the future with the introduction of metro in Delhi, but basic differences remain even in 2020, perhaps also due to the different urban design.The vehicle stock increases nearly three times in both cities in 23 years due to the increase in population, migration and economic growth. However, the vehicle ownership per 1000 persons only doubles and is far lower in 2020, even compared to the present world average ownership. Emissions, however, do not rise as much due to the introduction of more efficient vehicles and fuels, such as CNG or battery operated vehicles. The high share of public transport also helps. The effects of various policies, such as urban design, suburban railway system, transport management, control practices, etc. are very important. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) who also report transactional sex (male sex workers or MSWs) are known to be at higher risk for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The study aimed to profile socio-demographic characteristics and risk factors associated with high HIV prevalence among MSWs.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2008-9 among 483 high-risk MSM who attended STI clinics at Mumbai and Hyderabad, two large cities in India.Results: About 70% of the MSM reported transactional sex. As compared to other MSM, MSWs had more male partners (8.9 versus 2.5, p < 0.001) and higher rates of receptive anal sex (96% versus 72%, p < 0.001). HIV prevalence among MSWs and other MSM was 43.6% and 18.1% respectively. HIV prevalence among MSWs was associated with the place of residence (MSWs from Hyderabad were 7.3 times more likely to be infected), positive syphilis serology (3.8 times) and duration of sex work (increased by 8% for every additional year).Conclusion: The study showed that MSWs are at high risk for HIV acquisition/transmission, which highlights the need for intensified interventions for personalized risk-reduction counselling and STI screening. Newer biomedical interventions such as pre-exposure prophylaxis and treatment as prevention could also be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Documented experiences from India on the implementation of syphilis screening in large-scale HIV prevention programs for "key populations at higher risk' (KPs) are limited. Avahan is a large-scale HIV prevention program providing services to more than 300,000 KPs in six high HIV prevalence states of India since 2004. Avahan clinics provide a sexually transmitted infection service package which includes bi-annual syphilis screening. The trends in the coverage of syphilis screening among Avahan clinic attendees were studied retrospectively. Methodology: Screening was performed using either the Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) test or point-of-care immunochromatographic strip test (ICST). Clinic records from 2005 to 2009 were collated in an individual tracking database and analyzed with STATA-10. Results: Initially the coverage of syphilis screening (2.6% in 2005) was constrained by the availability and operational complexity of the RPR test. After its introduction in 2007, the use of ICST for screening increased from 7.4% to 77.0% and the proportion of clinic attendees screened increased from 9.0% to 21.6% during 2007-2009. The RPR reactivity rates declined from 6.6% (2006) to 4.4% (2009). Conclusion: The data showed improved rates of screening of clinic attendees and declining trends in sero-reactivity over time. The introduction of point-of-care syphilis tests may have contributed to the improved coverage of syphilis screening. The ICST may be considered for initial syphilis screening at other resource-constrained primary care sites in India such as ante-natal clinics and other KP interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Documentation of the long-term impact of supportive supervision using a monitoring tool in STI intervention with sex workers, men who have sex with men and injection-drug users is limited. The authors report methods and results of continued quality monitoring in a large-scale STI services provided as a part of a broader HIV-prevention package in six Indian states under Avahan, the India AIDS Initiative.Methodology: Guidelines and standards for STI services, and a supportive supervisory tool to monitor the quality were developed for providing technical support to STI component of large-scale HIV-prevention intervention through 372 project-supported STI clinics. The tool contained 80 questions to track the quality of STI services provided on a five-point scoring scale in five performance areas: coverage, quality of clinic and services, referral networks, community involvement and technical support.Results: The tool was applied to different STI clinics during supportive supervision visits conducted once in every 3 months to assess quality, give immediate feedback and develop a quality score. A total of 292 clinics managed by seven lead implementing partners in six Indian states were covered in 15 quarters over 45 months. Overall quality indicators for the five performance areas showed a three- to sevenfold improvement over the period.Conclusion: It was possible to improve quality over the long-term in STI interventions for sex workers, men who have sex with men and injection-drug users using an interactive and comprehensive supportive supervision tool which gives on-the-spot feedback. However, such an effort is time-consuming and resource-intensive, and needs a structured approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice husk is a residue from rice, which is grown in large quantities in Vietnam. By using rice husk as a fuel for heat and power production, dual environmental benefits can be achieved. Since it is a carbon neutral fuel, it can be a way of offsetting carbon dioxide emissions from energy supply systems. The use of rice husk for energy purposes can also help solve disposal problems at locations where husk is dumped in rivers or burnt in open piles. The aim of this study is to investigate whether rice husk can be used in an economical way to meet the energy demand within the rice milling industry, mainly electricity, and/or to produce electricity for sales to the national grid. Different energy conversion technologies are considered for three sizes of power plants, suitable to meet different demand categories, and their respective lifetime costs of generation are calculated. The impacts on project economy of the Clean Development Mechanism, rice husk ash sales and cogeneration of heat are also investigated. The lifetime costs of generation of the different power plants are compared with the electricity price in Vietnam. The results show that the profitability is influenced by whether the electricity is sold directly to rice mills or to the national grid. For large plants, economic viability can be reached without revenues from ash sales or the CDM. For smaller plants either of them is required. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Avahan, the India AIDS Initiative, implemented a large HIV prevention programme across six high HIV prevalence states amongst high risk groups consisting of female sex workers, high risk men who have sex with men, transgenders and injecting drug users in India. Utilization of the clinical services, health seeking behaviour and trends in syndromic diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections amongst these populations were measured using the individual tracking data. Methods: The Avahan clinical monitoring system included individual tracking data pertaining to clinical services amongst high risk groups. All clinic visits were recorded in the routine clinical monitoring system using unique identification numbers at the NGO-level. Visits by individual clinic attendees were tracked from January 2005 to December 2009. An analysis examining the limited variables over time, stratified by risk group, was performed. Results: A total of 431,434 individuals including 331,533 female sex workers, 10,280 injecting drug users, 82,293 men who have sex with men, and 7,328 transgenders visited the clinics with a total of 2,700,192 visits. Individuals made an average of 6.2 visits to the clinics during the study period. The number of visits per person increased annually from 1.2 in 2005 to 8.3 in 2009. The proportion of attendees visiting clinics more than four times a year increased from 4% in 2005 to 26% in 2009 (p<0.001). The proportion of STI syndromes diagnosed amongst female sex workers decreased from 39% in 2005 to 11% in 2009 (p<0.001) while the proportion of STI syndromes diagnosed amongst high risk men who have sex with men decreased from 12% to 3 % (p<0.001). The proportion of attendees seeking regular STI check-ups increased from 12% to 48% (p<0.001). The proportion of high risk groups accessing clinics within two days of onset of STI-related symptoms and acceptability of speculum and proctoscope examination increased significantly during the programme implementation period. Conclusions: The programme demonstrated that acceptable and accessible services with marginalised and often difficult-to-reach populations can be brought to a very large scale using standardized approaches. Utilization of these services can dramatically improve health seeking behaviour and reduce STI prevalence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Avahan, the India AIDS Initiative, implemented a large HIV prevention programme across six high HIV prevalence states amongst high risk groups consisting of female sex workers, high risk men who have sex with men, transgenders and injecting drug users in India. Utilization of the clinical services, health seeking behaviour and trends in syndromic diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections amongst these populations were measured using the individual tracking data.Methods: The Avahan clinical monitoring system included individual tracking data pertaining to clinical services amongst high risk groups. All clinic visits were recorded in the routine clinical monitoring system using unique identification numbers at the NGO-level. Visits by individual clinic attendees were tracked from January 2005 to December 2009. An analysis examining the limited variables over time, stratified by risk group, was performed.Results: A total of 431,434 individuals including 331,533 female sex workers, 10,280 injecting drug users, 82,293 men who have sex with men, and 7,328 transgenders visited the clinics with a total of 2,700,192 visits. Individuals made an average of 6.2 visits to the clinics during the study period. The number of visits per person increased annually from 1.2 in 2005 to 8.3 in 2009. The proportion of attendees visiting clinics more than four times a year increased from 4% in 2005 to 26% in 2009 (p<0.001). The proportion of STI syndromes diagnosed amongst female sex workers decreased from 39% in 2005 to 11% in 2009 (p<0.001) while the proportion of STI syndromes diagnosed amongst high risk men who have sex with men decreased from 12% to 3 % (p<0.001). The proportion of attendees seeking regular STI check-ups increased from 12% to 48% (p<0.001). The proportion of high risk groups accessing clinics within two days of onset of STI-related symptoms and acceptability of speculum and proctoscope examination increased significantly during the programme implementation period.Conclusions: The programme demonstrated that acceptable and accessible services with marginalised and often difficult-to-reach populations can be brought to a very large scale using standardized approaches. Utilization of these services can dramatically improve health seeking behaviour and reduce STI prevalence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]