Abstract
During the 2004, 2005 and 2006 growing seasons, physiological and anatomical leaf characteristics and productivity were studied in field-grown grapevines (Vitis vinifera L.) cv. 'Touriga Franca' under ambient (C, 365 +/- 10 ppm) or elevated carbon dioxide vertical bar CO2 vertical bar, (E, 500 +/- 16 ppm) under Open-top chambers (OTC-C and OTC-E, respectively). The elevated vertical bar CO2 vertical bar concentration increased net photosynthetic rate (A), intrinsic water use efficiency (A/g(s)), leaf thickness, Mg concentration, C/N, K/N and Mg/N ratios and decreased stomatal density and N concentration. Nevertheless, stomatal conductance (g(s)), transpiration rate (E), photochemical efficiency (F-v/F-m), leaf water potential, SPAD-values and Red/Far-red ratio transmitted by leaves were not significantly affected by vertical bar CO2 vertical bar. Meanwhile, there is no evidence for downward acclimation of photosynthesis and stomatal conductance. Yield, cluster weight and vigour showed an increase in elevated vertical bar CO2 vertical bar treatment but yield to pruning mass ratio was unaffected. Despite elevated vertical bar CO2 vertical bar stimulates grapevine photosynthesis and yield, more long-term studies, particularly at sub-optimal nutrient and water availability, are needed in order to reveal the grapevine responses to climate change in the Mediterranean area.

Abstract
Based on cyclic physiologic animal bioimpedance and body temperature a new method is being evaluated to predict estrus in dairy cattle with the aim of improving artificial insemination efficiency. Preceding in-vivo tests are being performed with a dedicated system based on the impedance converter AD5933, and a two-electrode configuration bioimplantable capsule. Acquired results will allow the optimal design of an implantable and autonomous low-power system. The implantable microsystem is being designed and simulated employing low-power techniques in a 0.35 mu m CMOS standard process.

Abstract
Biomedical implantable devices in real-time telemetry applications offer many advantages to study and monitor physiologic parameters in human and animal bodies. As in power-constrained implantable devices, batteries and wires are two key issues that usually compromise their application. Inductive coupling is a well-established technology because it replaces simultaneously the wired connection and avoids the use of batteries. In stand-alone applications that requires total freedom of movements, this technology may present some constrains. On the other hand,very-low power electronics, advanced energy harvesting techniques and smaller implantable rechargeable batteries makes now possible the conception of fully autonomous implantable devices. This paper describes an activation circuit used to completely turn-off battery-powered implantable devices. In addition, it allows the reception of embedded commands, suitable for calibration and sensor selection purposes. Results from an experimental device to be used in a smart hip prosthesis telemetry system for loosening detection shows the usefulness of the proposed activation concept.

Abstract
A new software package for the incremental hole-drilling technique (IHD) is presented in connection with undergraduate mechanical engineering education. The main available technical residual stresses evaluation procedures for applying MID in isotropic materials are reviewed and have been included in the package, it has an easy-to-use, friendly interface, and can be used as a tool to teach the IHD technique or as a laboratory to study its applicability to real world problems. A set of exercises have been prepared, which are freely distributed to our students, in order to show the full potential of the package, but the students can also do simulations and experiments with their own data. (C) 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 17: 351-362, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae.20225

Abstract
This paper describes a business and technological model proposal, known as Inov@Douro, intended to support and to promote competitive and sustained precision agriculture practices in the Portuguese Douro Region. Our approach is based on a distributed cooperative network, tailored 10 meet the specific needs of viticulture enterprises which also explore tourism as a valuable national and international business source. Instead of focusing on operational issues, such as remote sensing and data transmission, among others, we present the Inov@Douro model from the knowledge generation point-of-view, intended to support the multidisciplinary concept of a cooperation approach among regional partners. As a result, this collaborative approach might be the most suited technological tool to promote precision agriculture sustainability practices based on a symbiotic cooperation with the tourism sector. The Inov@Douro model aims to represent a new working style for this unique region, where the concept of public and private information is a key feature to achieve the desired success as a knowledge network. As a guideline to attain the implementation of such a model. information technology and infrastructures tools are discussed in order to promote precision agriculture practices while giving valuable and dynamic tourist information to the general public.

Abstract
As with most disciplines, the best way to learn and understand the relevant theoretical aspects related to industrial automation is by applying them to solve concrete problems. In order to increase the motivation of students a physical model of a manufacturing cell was acquired, which is, however, easily susceptible to being damaged through incorrect control sequences. To allow students safe access to this physical model, an interlocking application was designed and implemented. Additionally, a configurable software based simulator was also devised, which allows the students to work away from the laboratory in their own time. These tools have resulted in a higher flexibility in organizing courses and class work, due to their configurability and the way the physical model was integrated into the laboratory.