Abstract
The use of semiconductor nano-particles as temperature probes in luminescence chemical sensing applications is addressed. Temperature changes the intensity, the peak wavelength and the spectral width of the quantum dots luminescent emission in a linear and reversible way. Results are presented that show the feasibility of implementing a self-referenced intensity based sensor to perform temperature measurements independent of the optical power level in the sensing system. Additionally, it is demonstrated that self-referenced temperature measurements in multiple points could be performed using reflection or transmission based optical fiber configurations.

Abstract
The letter describes a new economic dispatch algorithm for systems with uncertain wind generation prediction, similar to the classical thermal dispatch model with load on a single bus. The optimization is achieved in a compromise between fuzzy constraints in the magnitude of wind penetration and the variation of running costs. The model includes also the attitudes of the dispatcher toward risk (security) and cost.

Abstract

Abstract
Recent advances in perceptual audio coding are strongly based on the concept of bandwidth extension. Most techniques implementing bandwidth extension require an analysis/synthesis filter bank in addition to that used by the associated perceptual audio coder, which increases the overall system complexity and coding delay, and makes difficult the correct alignment between the operation of the audio coder and the operation of the bandwidth extension technique. We present a new Accurate Spectral Replacement (ASR) technique that is based on a suitable decomposition of the MDCT filter bank, and that implements synthesis of sinusoidal components with an accuracy much higher than the natural frequency resolution of the filter bank. The ASR technique is described, its performance is assessed with both synthetic and natural audio signals, and its main areas of application are addressed. Audio demos are available at http://www.atc-labs.com/asr/.

Abstract
The suitability of semiconductor nanoparticles to provide a reference signal in luminescence based chemical sensors is addressed. A CdSe-ZnS nanocrystal, with emission peak at 520 nm is used to provide a reference signal. Measurements of oxygen concentration, which are based on the dynamic quenching of the luminescence of a Ruthenium complex, are performed. Both dye and the nanocrystal are immobilized in a sol-gel matrix and are excited by a blue LED. Results are presented showing that the ratio between the reference and the sensor signals is highly insensitive to fluctuations of the excitation optical power. Preliminary results show that nanocrystals could be used to measure temperature and provide a reference signal.

Abstract
This paper presents a new multicriteria decision aid system (DAS) to obtain acceptable power line paths integrating the diverse socioeconomic interests of the different groups involved in the planning process, such as utilities, environmental agents, or local and regional authorities. The DAS is based on the intensive use of geographic information systems, as well as multicriteria weighting techniques reflecting all group interests. This new DAS can be used to overcome the problems raised by initially opposing positions among different groups stemming from diverse technological, economic, environmental, and/or social interests. The technique is illustrated by an intensive simulation example from a case study reproducing some of the phases of a negotiation process.