Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Performance Evaluation of 3d Modeling Software for Uav Photogrammetry

UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) photogrammetry, which combines UAV and freely available internet-based 3D modeling software, is widely used as a low-cost and user-friendly photogrammetry technique in the fields such as remote sensing and geosciences. In UAV photogrammetry, only the platform used in conventional aerial photogrammetry is changed. Consequently, 3D modeling software contributes significantly to its expansion. However, the algorithms of the 3D modelling software are black box algorithms. As a result, only a few studies have been able to evaluate their accuracy using 3D coordinate check points. With this motive, Smart3DCapture and Pix4Dmapper were downloaded from the Internet and commercial software PhotoScan was also employed; investigations were performed in this paper using check points and images obtained from UAV.
Phase diffusion time division method for wireless communication network

This paper proposes a novel communication timing control for a wireless sensor network, named phase diffusion time division method. This is based on the mutual synchronization of coupled phase oscillatory dynamics with a stochastic adaptation, according to the history of collision frequency in the communication node. Through local and fully distributed interactions in the communication network, the dynamics self-organizes an efficient communication pattern, such that the network reduces the collision frequency by diffusion of the phase pattern, but also it sustains the sufficient throughput of communications by the stochastic adaptation. This method is designed for applications in a regular grid model of the wireless network, but it is also extended to the irregular grid model as simulation results exemplify the efficiency.
Customer online shopping experience data analytics

The purpose of this paper is to develop a customer online behaviour analysis tool, segment high-value customers, analyse their online purchasing behaviour and predict their next purchases from an online air travel corporation. ,An operations review of the customer online shopping process of an online travel agency (OTA) is conducted. A customer online shopping behaviour analysis tool is developed. The tool integrates competitors’ pricing data mining, customer segmentation and predictive analysis. The impacts of competitors’ price changes on customer purchasing decisions regarding the OTA’s products are evaluated. The integrated model for mining pricing data, identifying potential customers and predicting their next purchases helps the OTA recommend tailored product packages to its individual customers with reference to their travel patterns. ,In the customer segmentation analysis, 110,840 customers are identified and segmented based on their purchasing behaviour. The relationship between the purchasing behaviour in an OTA and the price changes of different OTAs are analysed. There is a significant relationship between the flight duration time and the purchase lead time. The next travel destinations of segmented high-value customers are predicted with reference to their travel patterns and the significance of the relationships between destination pairs. ,The developed model contributes to pricing evaluation, customer segmentation and package customization for online customers. ,This study provides novel method and insights into customer behaviour towards OTAs through an integrated model of customer segmentation, customer behaviour and prediction analysis.
Annuity Product Valuation and Risk Measurement under Correlated Financial and Longevity Risks

Longevity risk is a non-diversifiable risk and regarded as a pressing socio-economic challenge of the century. Its accurate assessment and quantification is therefore critical to enable pensionfund companies provide sustainable old-age security and maintain a resilient global insurance market. Fluctuations and a decreasing trend in mortality rates, which give rise to longevity risk, as well as the uncertainty in interest-rate dynamics constitute the two fundamental determinants in pricing and risk management of longevity-dependent products. We also note that historical data reveal some evidence of strong correlation between mortality and interest rates and must be taken into account when modelling their joint dynamics. In this thesis, we model and examine the impact of nonlinearity and correlation on an annuity product. A regime-switching approach to address nonlinearity is embedded both in the Lee-Carter model for mortality rate modelling and prediction, and in the Vasiček model for capturing interest-rate movements. In the valuation and computation of risk measures for an annuity that are being carried out to satisfy regulatory requirements, the correlation structure between mortality and financial risks is explicitly modelled. Our proposed modelling framework is implemented on simulated data as well as actual data covering the South Korean population and Korean bond yields for the period 1980-2015. Our results demonstrate the significant effect of correlation on annuity and risk-metric values. Finally, we found that the use of regime-switching techniques for both mortality and interest rate modelling creates a greater latitude in obtaining accurate prices, based on models’ parameter estimates, and in setting capital adequacy that avoids substantial overreserving or under-reserving.
Pressure updating methods for the steady-state fluid equations

Abstract : We consider the steady state equations for a compressible fluid. Since we wish to solve for a range of speeds we must consider the equations in conservation form. For transonic speeds these equations are of mixed type. Hence, the usual approach is to add time derivatives to the steady state equations and then march these equations in time. One then adds a time derivative of the density to the continuity equation, a derivative of the momentum to the momentum equation and a derivative of the total energy to the energy equation. This choice is dictated by the time consistent equations. However, since we are only interested in the steady state this is not necessary. Thus we shall consider the possibility of adding a time derivative of the pressure to the continuity equation and similar modifications for the energy equation. This can then be generalized to adding combinations of time derivatives to each equation since these vanish in the steady state. When using acceleration techniques such as residual smoothing, multigrid, etc. these are applied to the pressure rather than the density. Hence, the code duplicates the behavior of the incompressible equations for low speeds. (AN)
Enhanced Differential Power Processor for PV Systems: Resonant Switched-Capacitor Gyrator Converter With Local MPPT

This paper introduces an enhanced differential power processor topology and principle of operation for photovoltaic (PV) systems that is based on switched-capacitor technology, featuring local maximum power point tracking (MPPT) capability, zero current switching, high efficiency over wide-operation range, and reduced size. The new converter operates as a voltage-dependent current-source and is regulated by dead-time or frequency control. Local MPPT on the individual PV elements is realized and the operation is demonstrated by simulation and experiments. Differential power processing operation is verified using 150-W prototypes, demonstrating ultimate improvement in the power harvesting capability of above 90% and up to 99% out of the available power in the string, under different insolation levels.
Magnetic susceptibility variation of MSW compost-amended soils: In-situ method for monitoring heavy metal contamination

Magnetic susceptibility was measured for agricultural soils in Mornag area, Tunisia, where the soils were partly amended by manure or compost obtained from municipal solid waste stabilisation (‘MSW compost’). Our study indicates that natural non-treated soils and manure-amended soils are always low in magnetic susceptibility, but MSW compost-amended soils show higher values of this parameter. Actually, the increase of magnetic susceptibility shows a direct correspondence with the increasing of the amount of MSW compost added to the soil. According to the magnetic mineralogical investigation carried out by isothermal remanent magnetisation acquisition technique, higher magnetic susceptibility values are depending on an increase in ferromagnetic components such as either magnetite (-Fe3 O4) or maghemite (-Fe2 O3) particles. The growth in content of these ferromagnetic components corresponds to an increase of the concentration of heavy metals in soils, which means that magnetic susceptibility indirectly indicates the concentration of heavy metals in MSW compost-amended soils.
TEST DEVELOPMENT OF MULTI-SPECIES ALLOMETRIC EQUATIONS FOR THE QUANTIFICATION OF THE CARBON STOCK OF SOME SPECIES OF FOREST GUINEA

This study is based on the development of allometric models of the Trichilia Septentrionalis species of the classified forests of Ziama, Mont Nimba, Béro, Pic de Fonc and Diécké in Forest Guinea. Its purpose is to establish a basis for calculating carbon stocks from allometric models for estimating aboveground biomass. The tree sample consists of 375 feet of Trichilia Septentrionalis. The direct method of felling and weighing compartment by compartment of biomass is based on the use of tree samples. The criteria for selection and validity of the models are based first of all on the tests of normality, nullity, heterogeneity and autocorrelation of the residuals. Following the tests carried out, we analyzed the errors, in particular the standard residual error (CSR) and the Akaike information criterion (AIC). The results show that the power model is explicit with a residual error of 0.0443 or 4.43% and a lower AIC compared to equation (7) which has a high residual error at the same time as the AIC . Due to the fact that the standard residual errors (CSR) and the Akaike information criterion (AIC) of the other eight (8) equations are not suitable for the study of this forest species. This means that the power model is best suited to study the aboveground biomass of the species Trichilia Septentrionalis in Forest Guinea. The study confirmed the hypothesis that within the same species, the development of a specific model reflects reality more and makes it possible to quantify carbon stocks closer to reality than the generic model.
Understanding the Impacts of Human Mobility on Accessibility Using Massive Mobile Phone Tracking Data

Many existing accessibility studies ignore human mobility due to the lack of large-scale human mobility data. This study investigates the impacts of human mobility on accessibility using massive mobile phone tracking data collected in Shenzhen, China. In this study, human mobility information is extracted from mobile phone tracking data using a time-geographic approach. The accessibility of each phone user is evaluated using fine spatial resolution across the entire city. The impacts of human mobility on accessibility are quantified by using relative accessibility ratios between phone users and a virtual stationary user in the same residential location. Results of this study enrich understandings of how land use influences relationships between human mobility and accessibility. For resource-poor regions with sparse service facilities, human mobility can greatly enhance individual accessibility. In contrast, for resource-rich regions with dense service facilities, human mobility can even reduce individual accessibility. Overall, human mobility can reduce spatial inequity of accessibility for people living in different regions of the city. The results of this study also have several important methodological implications for including human mobility and time dimension in accessibility evaluations.
Grid-connected Photovoltaic System with Maximum Power Point Tracking using Self-Organizing Fuzzy Logic Controller

This paper presents the design of a controller for the maximum power point tracking of a grid-connected photovoltaic energy conversion system. A boost converter is used in the system to deliver the output from the solar array to DC-AC inverter, and feed the power into the AC grid. A self-organizing fuzzy logic controller is introduced for the tracking algorithm. The duty ratio for the operation of the boost converter is optimally adjusted in such a way that the maximum power point, which normally varies according to the environment, can be achieved. We demonstrate via the simulation results that our proposed technique outperforms over the conventional fuzzy logic controller in terms of tracking speed and transient response. Furthermore, the algorithm implementation can be done using a look-up table, hence a high-performance, cost-effective real-time maximum power point tracking can be simply realized
Utilization of Information and Communication Technology Usage in Supporting Business Activities

The purpose of this study is to discuss the use of information technology in helping entrepreneurs run their business, especially internal and external communication with the use of information technology that provides various features according to the needs and business conditions run by entrepreneurs. The methods used were the descriptive and comparative method with data collection in the form of the primary data source and secondary data. Maximizing the function of information technology, efficiency helps entrepreneurs in their jobs, especially those who need more intense communication with their business, such as the use of video-conference information technology for presentations, interviews, online meetings with different places, but communication are still workable. Utilization of communication media such as line, WhatsApp is to send each other short messages. E-mail for the purpose of sending data or reports. Website is a medium for information dissemination or management. that information technology has many benefits in helping business activities one of them is the communication process.
A Diplexer based on Hybrid Cavity and Microstrip Structure

─ This paper presents a high selective diplexer with hybrid filters, which is composed by dual-mode microstrip resonators with metallic coaxial shielding cases of RF module. By utilizing vertical space above microstrip circuits which greatly saves space, an additional pair of transmission pole and zero are hereby added in the passband and stopband, respectively. The proposed structure provides high quality-factors to enhance frequency selectivity. For demonstration, a diplexer prototype is designed and fabricated at the center frequencies (CF) of 2.40 and 3.45 GHz with a 3-dB passband bandwidth of 200 MHz. The measured insertion losses (IL) are 1.45 dB and 1.61 dB in the lower and upper passbands respectively. The output isolation between two channels is measured greater than 32 dB. Index Terms ─ Cavity, diplexer, hybrid structure, microstrip.
Simultaneous determination of heavy metals in drinking waters and wines by methods: Ion pair-reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography and capillary zone electrophoresis

Simultaneous determination of metal ions in drinking waters and wines using ion paired reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (IP−RPHPLC) and capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) have been investigated. Co(II), Cu(II), Ni(II), Fe(II) and V(V) are analyzed as their Nitro-PAPS chelates. Reversed flow injection (rFI) is used for in-line complexation prior to their separation by IP-RPHPLC. The optimum mobile phase compositions, obtained from sequential simplex method by carried out on a C18 µBondapak column at a flow rate of 1.0 mL min -1 and detection at 570 nm, are 39.7% acetonitrile containing 5.5 mmol L -1 acetate buffer 5.0 containing 3.5 mmol L -1 tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBABr). Meanwhile, CZE condition is performed on an uncoated fused-silica capillary (30.0 cm effective length) with the electrolyte of 35 mmol L -1 borate buffer pH 10.0 in 10% acetonitrile and 0.04 mmol L -1 Nitro-PAPS, separation voltage of 15 kV and detection at 250 nm. The analytical performance of both methods are examined and discussed. The analysis time of IP-RPHPLC including in-line complexation by rFI and separation of five metals is 19 min whereas the analysis time of CZE is 7 min. A high risk of iron and copper contamination is found in all drinking water and wine samples studied. The results obtained from both proposed methods are comparable (t-test, 95% confidence limit).
Very Low Voltage (VLV) Design

This paper is a tutorial-style introduction to a special session on: Effective Voltage Scaling in the Late CMOS Era. It covers the fundamental challenges and associated solution strategies in pursuing very low voltage (VLV) designs. We discuss the performance and system reliability constraints that are key impediments to VLV. The associated trade-offs across power, performance and reliability are helpful in inferring the optimal operational voltage-frequency point. This work was performed under the auspices of an ongoing DARPA program (named PERFECT) that is focused on maximizing system-level energy efficiency.
Letter to the Editor: Melanocortin 4 Receptor Antagonists and Their Emerging Role in Pain Management

I read withgreat interest the recent article by Chu et al. in a recent issue of your esteemed journal [1]. The article is highly thought provoking. Interestingly, the past few years have seen the emergence of a number of novel new melanocortin 4 (MC4) receptor antagonists that show significant antinociceptive effects. For instance, Agouti-related protein is an endogenous MC4 receptor antagonist that significantly decreases mechanical allodynia and enhances antinociception in neuropathic animal models [2]. Similarly, Starowicz et al. have recently demonstrated that mechanical allodynia is significantly attenuated after administration of the synthetic MC4 receptor antagonists JKC-363 and SHU9119 [3]. Another new selective MC4 receptor antagonist is HS014 which enhances the analgesic effects of intracerebroventricularly administered opioid agents such as morphine [4]. As a result, HSO14 mitigates the development of morphine withdrawal hyperalgesia. These MC4 receptor antagonists such as JKC-363 and HS014 also prevent the expression of morphine tolerance and thereby decrease the dose of morphine for effective antinociception [5]. Interestingly, MC4 receptor antagonists also allay depression and anxiety, which are often seen as coexistent morbidities in patients with chronic pain [6].
Cross Dynamic Range And Cross Resolution Objective Image Quality Assessment With Applications

In recent years, image and video signals have become an indispensable part of human life. There has been an increasing demand for high quality image and video products and services. To monitor, maintain and enhance image and video quality objective image and video quality assessment tools play crucial roles in a wide range of applications throughout the field of image and video processing, including image and video acquisition, communication, interpolation, retrieval, and displaying. A number of objective image and video quality measures have been introduced in the last decades such as mean square error (MSE), peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR), and structural similarity index (SSIM). However, they are not applicable when the dynamic range or spatial resolution of images being compared is different from that of the corresponding reference images. In this thesis, we aim to tackle these two main problems in the field of image quality assessment. Tone mapping operators (TMOs) that convert high dynamic range (HDR) to low dynamic range (LDR) images provide practically useful tools for the visualization of HDR images on standard LDR displays. Most TMOs have been designed in the absence of a well-established and subject-validated image quality assessment (IQA) model, without which fair comparisons and further improvement are difficult. We propose an objective quality assessment algorithm for tone-mapped images using HDR images as references by combining 1) a multi-scale signal fidelity measure based on a modified structural similarity (SSIM) index; and 2) a naturalness measure based on intensity statistics of natural images. To evaluate the proposed Tone-Mapped image Quality Index (TMQI), its performance in several applications and optimization problems is provided. Specifically, the main component of TMQI known as structural fidelity is modified and adopted to enhance the visualization of HDR medical images on standard displays. Moreover, a substantially different approach to design TMOs is presented, where instead of using any pre-defined systematic computational structure (such as image transformation or contrast/edge enhancement) for tone-mapping, we navigate in the space of all LDR images, searching for the image that maximizes structural fidelity or TMQI. There has been an increasing number of image interpolation and image super-resolution
Ray Accelerator: Efficient and Flexible Ray Tracing on a Heterogeneous Architecture

We present a hybrid ray tracing system, where the work is divided between the CPU cores and the GPU in an integrated chip, and communication occurs via shared memory. Rays are organized in large packets that can be distributed among the two units as needed. Testing visibility between rays and the scene is mostly performed using an optimized kernel on the GPU, but the CPU can help as necessary. The CPU cores typically handle most or all shading, which makes it easy to support complex appearances. For efficiency, the CPU cores shade whole batches of rays by sorting them on material and shading each material using a vectorized kernel. In addition, we introduce a method to support light paths with arbitrary recursion, such as multiple recursive Whitted‐style ray tracing and adaptive sampling where the result of a ray is examined before sending the next, while still batching up rays for the benefit of GPU‐accelerated traversal and vectorized shading. This allows our system to achieve high rendering performance while maintaining the flexibility to accommodate different rendering algorithms.