Predeployed secure key distribution mechanisms in sensor networks: current state-of-the-art and a new approach using time information

In this article we survey a number of predeployed secure key distribution (PSKD) schemes proposed in the technical literature. We also propose a new time-based PSKD (TPSKD), which operates under the assumption of loose time synchronization, and discuss the performance of the scheme. Since the TPSKD scheme uses time information, which would typically already be available in sensor nodes, the cost of the scheme?s implementation is low.     

E-BAMA vs. RAMA [multiple access protocols]

The article presents a performance comparison of two random access protocols for wireless mobile signaling in which a single channel is dedicated to the signaling function, enhanced beacon assisted multiple access (E-BAMA) and resource auction multiple access (RAMA). Data traffic is transported separately on a set of orthogonal channels. The beacon assisted multiple access (BAMA) protocol was first presented as a method of providing mobility management functions, e.g., handover, while minimizing the processing burden placed on the mobile. In BAMA, throughout the duration of its call, an active user repeatedly and quasi-periodically broadcasts a beacon containing its ID using the Aloha protocol. Quasi-periodicity prevents a pair of users from repeatedly colliding with each other. When a base successfully receives the beacon and assigns a channel, it uses a separate downstream channel to send to the mobile an acknowledgement that contains the number of the assigned channel. The BAMA protocol includes a scheme to maintain lists of active mobiles in nearby cells and to exchange periodically these lists among the base-stations. The authors evaluate the capacity and delay performance of E-BAMA and RAMA. Then, they present a numerical comparison of the parameters. Finally, the results are summarized qualitatively. Some additional derivation is included in the appendix     

Creating advanced functions on network processors: experience and perspectives

In this article we present five case studies of advanced networking functions that detail how a network processor (NP) can provide high performance and also the necessary flexibility compared with ASIC. We first review the basic NP system architectures, and describe the IBM PowerNP architecture from the data plane as well as the control plane point of view. We introduce models for the programmer's views of NP that facilitate a global understanding of NP software programming. Then, for each case study, we present results from prototypes as well as general considerations that apply to a wider range of system architectures. Specifically, we investigate the suitability of NP for QoS (active queue management and traffic engineering), header processing (GPRS tunneling protocol), intelligent forwarding (load balancing without flow disruption), payload processing (code interpretation and just-in-time compilation in active networks), and protocol stack termination (SCTP). Finally, we summarize the key features as revealed by each case study, and conclude with remarks on the future of NP.     

Independence and graph homomorphisms graph homomorphisms

A graph with n vertices that contains no triangle and no 5-cycle and minimum degree exceeding n/4 contains an independent set with at least (3n)/7 vertices. This is best possible. The proof proceeds by producing a homomorphism to the 7-cycle and invoking the No Homomorphism Lemma. For k ≥ 4, a graph with n vertices, odd girth 2k+1, and minimum degree exceeding n/(k+1) contains an independent set with at least kn/(2k+1) vertices; however, we suspect this is not best possible. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.     

Perhalogenmethylmercapto-heterocyclen, (VII) [1] konkurrenzreaktionen elektronenarmer,substituierter aromaten um die halogenmethylmercapto- BZW. Chlorgruppe von Cl3-nFnCSCl in starken saeuren

Electron-deficient aromatics, such as 2,5-bis(trifluoromethylmercapto)thiophene ($\text{1a}$) or (trifluoromethylmercapto)benzene ($\text{8a}$), react with F₃CSCl in the presence of F₃CSO₃ as a catalyst to give mainly 3-chloro-2,5-bis(trifluoromethylmercapto)thiophen ($\text{3a}$) and 1-chloro-4- or 2-(trifluoromethylmercapto)benzene ($\text{10}$, respectively. This reaction competes with the one expected to result in 2,3,5-tris(trifluoromethylmercapto)thiophene ($\text{2a}$) and 1,4- and 1,2-bis(trifluoromethylmercapto)benzene ($\text{9}$,$\text{9′}$), respectively. Further reactions of deactivated aromatics with Cl_3-nF_nCSCl show that the chlorine substitution is in general catalysed by strong acids. Reaction mechanisms are proposed for both Substitutions. The Cl_3-nF_nCS group in aromatics exerts a -M-effect in the case of an attack of a positive ion, e.g. H^⊕, the well-known +M-effect in the case of reactions with positively polarized molecules, e.g. CF₃S^β+Cl^β-.     

Synthetic thermally reversible gel systems. V

Differential thermal analysis has been used to study the fusion of aqueous thermally reversible gels of gelatin and polyacrylylglycinamide (PAG). In the case of gelatin gels, endotherms close to the melting point are readily observed and these are sometimes preceeded by a small exothermic heat of gel reorganization. Calculations are presented to show that breaking of the gelatin gel network requires only a small fraction of the observed endothermic heat of fusion and that most of the heat is required for melting larger crystallites within gelatin aggregates and for perhaps a helix → coil transition. Failure to observe endotherms by DTA over the known temperature range of fusion of PAG gels is consistent with prior measurements and conclusions. The noncrystallinity of PAG gels and soluble aggregates together with a heat of crosslinking of only ?5 to ?10 kcal/mole of crosslinks places the heat of fusion of PAG gels outside the lower limits of DTA sensitivity.     

Gas phase unimolecular decomposition and chemiluminescence of tetramethyldioxetane initiated by a tea CO2 laser

Time resolved chemiluminescence spectra of pure tetramethyldioxetane are obtained for the first time using pulsed infrared laser excitation. The only major product, acetone, is shown to be formed by at least two pathways: a unimolecular, collision free, decomposition and a collision induced mechanism. Spectral and temporal behaviour indicate that neither singlet nor triplet acetone are the primary products. Other possibilities are discussed.