Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Development of Color Co-Occurrence Matrix Based Machine Vision Algorithms for Wild Blueberry Fields

Co-occurrence matrix-based textural features were analyzed and three algorithms were developed to identify bare spots, wild blueberry plants, and weeds with the aim of applying agrochemicals to wild blueberry cropping fields in a spot-specific manner. Images were acquired using four cameras and a ruggedized laptop with custom-written programs coded in Microsoft Visual® C++. Textural features were extracted from the images using MATLAB® and analyzed with SAS®. Forty-four textural features were extracted from co-occurrence matrices of NTSC luminance (L), hue, saturation, and intensity (HSI) images. Multiple discriminant analysis using all 44 features (DF_ALL model) showed 98.1% of overall classification accuracy and 83 ms of processing time of an image with C++ calculation. Based on the results of multiple discriminant analysis and two-step linear discrimination plotting, the DF_HSISD, DF_SISD, and HSILD algorithms are preferred algorithms with overall accuracy of 94.9%, 92.7%, and 91.4%, and processing time of 55, 27, and 29 ms, respectively. Any of three reduced textural feature algorithms can be employed for spot-specific application of agrochemicals in wild blueberry cropping fields. The choice of one algorithm over another will depend on whether processing speed or accuracy is more important for the end-user’s application.
In-/Reverse-Phase Dual Band Power Divider with Variable Division Ratio

This paper presents a novel method for the design of dual band power divider, which features variable division ratio, optional frequency-independent output in-/reverse-phase performance and excellent isolation. Closed-form design equations can be obtained by using transmission line theory. In order to verify the validity of the technique, two dual band power dividers with different division ratios of 1 : 1 and 2 : 1 are designed, simulated and fabricated. The simulated and measured results are compared.
A Thematic Analysis of Online Learning Experiences Among Students of a Language Programme: Instructors’ Delivery and Peer Interaction

The Fully Online Learning Community (FOLC) framework was authored by Van Oostveen (2016) based on a social constructivism theory that proposes all knowledge develops as a result of social interaction. Amid Covid-19 pandemic, students and instructors alike are forced to be part of this community of which their experiences with ‘social presence’ are crucial to inform curriculum designers the efficacy of online learning curriculum, Thus, this paper aims to look into the online learning experiences among a group of students of a language programme particularly on their social involvement: instructor’s delivery and peer interaction. A six-stage thematic analysis (TA) (Braun & Clark, 2006) was used to code the data from 256 respondents of an open-ended questionnaire. A total of 11 recurring themes were found for instructors’ delivery: platform, material, delivery technique, interaction, support, feedback, live session duration, availability, instructors’ characteristics, mode suitability and materials accessibility. However only six themes were coded for peer interaction: activities, support, mode suitability, platform, cooperation, and the Internet connectivity. These themes correspond with seven of the nine dimensions of online learning design proposed by Means, Bakia and Murphy (2014) which are modality, pacing, instructor role online, student role online, online communication synchrony, pedagogy, and source of feedback. In conclusion, TA is useful in informing curriculum designers and instructors to improve the existing online learning curriculum and practices while the students can benefit to become better learners in online learning.
Estimating transmitted waves of floating breakwater using support vector regression model

In this present work the performance of support vector regression model (SVRM) for predicting the wave transmission coefficient of floating pipe breakwater is investigated. The data used in the model are the experimental parameters obtained from the work conducted in the wave flume at Marine Structure laboratory, National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal, Mangalore, India. The goal of SVRM is to identify a function f(x) that for all training patterns x has a maximum deviation e from the target (experimental) values y and has a maximum margin. Using the training patterns, SVRM generates a model representing a tube with radius e fitted to the data. For the hard margin SVRM, the error for patterns inside the tube is zero, whereas no patterns are allowed outside the tube. For real-case datasets, this condition cannot account for outliers, an incomplete set of input variables x or experimental errors in measuring y. A soft margin in SVRM is introduced by using slack variables. In SVRM, the input x is first mapped onto an m-dimensional feature space using some fixed (nonlinear) mapping, and then a linear model is constructed in this feature space (Ivanciuc Ovidiu 2007). Using mathematical notation, the linear model in the feature space f(x, w) is given by
Large Eddy Simulations of a typical European high-speed train inside tunnels

This article presents our results of external aerodynamics, obtained with Large Eddy Simulations (LES), about a typical European passenger-stock inside tunnels. The focal points are the aerodynamic forces and their typical frequencies applied to the tail. Two train lengths and three tunnels are employed in the study to model the conditions of double and single-track bores. Owing to the relatively high numerical cost associated with LES for external train aerodynamics we could only afford sufficient spatial grid resolution on our shortest train. The flow simulations confirm the existence of coherent structures alongside the body that give rise to continuously propagating pressure disturbances. These disturbances with a relatively small amplitude and high spatial frequency cannot affect the ride comfort. Still, they are found to influence the flow separation about the tail, which is regarded as one of the candidate mechanisms to impair the ride comfort and running stability.
First Steps towards Parametric Modeling of FSW Processes by Using Advanced Separated Representations: Numerical Techniques

Friction Stir Welding (FSW) is a welding technique the more and more demanded in industry by its multiple advantages. Despite its wide use, its physical foundations and the effect of the process parameters have not been fully elucidated. Numerical simulations are a powerful tool to achieve a greater understanding in the physics of the problem. Although several approaches can be found in the literature for simulating FSW, all of them present different limitations that restrict their applicability in industrial applications. This paper presents a new solution strategy that combines a robust approximation method, based on natural neighborhood interpolation, with a solution separated representation making use of the Proper Generalized Decomposition (PGD), for creating a new 3D updated-Lagrangian strategy for addressing the 3D model while keeping a 2D computational complexity
Design Noir: The Secret Life of Electronic Objects

Titel is published in cooperation with August, London Designers Dunne and Raby explore the revolutionary and uncanny impact of electronic technologies on our lives. Dunne and Raby investigate the real physical and cultural effects of the digital domain, demonstrating that mobile phones, computers and other electronic objects such as televisions profoundly influence people's experience of their environment. Dunne and Raby's ideas have important implications for architecture and design in this, their first major book, they introduce their extraordinary new way of thinking about objects, space and behaviour to a broad audience. The book is divided into three sections: 1. Manifesto, introducing the authors' ideas about electromagnetic space. 2. Conversations. Dunne and Raby talk to a variety of designers, architects and artists about the impact electronic technology has on their practice. 3. Placebo. The intriguing results of a project involving Dunne and Raby's working furniture prototypes, including a table with an integrated global positioning system and a chair that lets the sitter know when radiation is passing through his body. Dunne and Raby are Research Fellows at the Royal College of Art; London. Dunne trained as an industrial designer, and Raby as an architect, and both lived in Japan during the 1980s, where Dunne worked for Sony, and Raby worked for Toyo Ito.
Auditory brainstem responses elicited by embedded narrowband chirps

Auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) have been investigated using rising frequency chirps to compensate for the dispersion along the cochlear partition in the auditory periphery. Responses elicited by the broadband chirp show larger wave-V amplitude than do click-evoked responses for most stimulation levels (Dau et al., 2000). It is desirable in some clinical (objective audibility assessment) and research (cochlear latency estimation, Neely et al., 1988) applications for more frequency specific responses. Traditionally, this has been accomplished using tone-burst stimuli, however these have the problem of spectral splatter associated with temporally short narrowband stimuli. Conceivably one could use narrowband chirps to synchronise a small number of auditory filters, and thereby gain frequency speci city. However, similar to the tone-burst ABRs, the stimulus duration would be very short, and therefore onset and offset effects will result in spectral splatter and thus degrade the frequency speci city. Junius and Dau (2005) showed that, by embedding a single broadband rising chirp, spectrally and temporally in two steady-state tones, the effects of spectral splatter along the cochlear partition can be minimised. Further, by ensuring that the excitation level is sufficiently low, one can keep any steady state responses in the evoked potential to a minimum. This paper presents a feasibility study in the use of embedded narrowband chirp stimuli to obtain frequency specific auditory brainstem responses, for use in clinical and research settings.
Surface Potential and Electric Field Measurements in Plasma Actuators at Low Pressure

A plasma actuator was operated at pressures from 760 to 88 torr to determine the mechanisms leading to decreased force production at low pressures. The actuator was driven with a 5 kHz sine wave and a peak to peak voltage of 13.4 kV. A passive measurement technique called the capacitive V-dot probe was adapted to the actuator to resolve the spatiotemporal evolution of the surface potential and electric field on the dielectric surface. At low pressures up to 20 times more plasma by visual inspection is present than at atmospheric conditions. Average force production is calculated and shown to decrease at lower pressures due to the fact that up to 88% of the plasma is created in regions where the electric field is relatively weak. The calculated average body force shows a slight increase up to a pressure of 429 torr before trending to 0 at lower pressures in good qualitative agreement with experimental force measurements. Performing a power analysis shows that as pressure is decreased more power is used cre.
Development of Protocol For Efficient Micropropagation of A Multipurpose Local Cultivar of Dalbergia Sissoo A Threatened Tree Species

Present study was aimed to develop a protocol for efficient micropropagation of a multipurpose local cultivar of Dalbergia sissoo. In nature this species multiply by fragments of roots or seeds which is rare. Stem cuttings are also used but we do not get authentic plantlets for large scale plantation. In the present study nodal explants, taken from healthy and young branches from the plant growing in wild habitat were inoculated in Murashige and Skoog (1962) MS medium, supplemented with different concentrations of 6-Benzuyle amino purine (BAP) either alone or with three different concentrations of NAA (αNapththalene acetic acid). Similarly, different concentration of Kinetin alone or NAA was also supplemented in MS basal medium along with 3% sucrose and solidified with 0.8% Agar. Among the six different concentrations of BAP alone, MS + 1.5 mg/l BAP was found more suitable for nodal shoot bud initiation. Here the percentage response for shoot bud induction was 88.48, the mean number of shoot buds was 3.72, mean length was 1.75 cm. Buds were initiated after 14.68 days of inoculation. When MS + 1.5 mg/l BAP + 1.0 mg/l NAA was used for inoculation the percentage of response for shoot buds initiation was 92.75, number of shoot buds 4.76, and mean length of 2.18 cm respectively. Time taken for shoot bud initiation was 12 days only. It was further noted that Kinetin alone at the similar concentration induced shoot buds on nodal explants but the percentage of response for shoot bud initiation was 78.62, the number of shoot buds 3.06, the mean length 1.54 cm. Here time taken for shoot bud initiation was 16.56 days. Likewise, MS + 1.5 mg/l KN + 1.0 mg/l NAA when used for inoculation, the percentage of response was 88.72, number of shoot buds 3.54, mean length 1.88 cm respectively. The shoot buds were initiated after 13.58 days. These shoot buds were separated from the explants after 34 days of incubation and were inoculated in the multiplication medium. Here also, the highest percentage of response 96.24, number of shoots developed denovo, 5.84 mean shoot length 3.78 cm and growth of shoots was excellent in MS+ 1.5 mg/l BAP + 1.0 mg/l NAA, in comparison to similar concentration of KN+ NAA, where the percentage response for denovo shoot bud initiation was 89.72, the number of shoots per explant 4.25, the mean length 3.12 and growth was slow than the above. Well developed plantlets were inoculated in rooting medium. Best response was noted n MS+ 1.0 mg/l IBA, where percentage of response was 90.78, number of roots 4.88 and mean length 2.2cm. At similar concentration of NAA, the percentage response was 70.18, number of roots 2.46 and mean length 1.75 cm respectively.
Nozzle design and simulation of gas flow for the laser cutting process

In the laser cutting process the gas flow is of main importance to remove molten material from the cut kerf. Changes in nozzle geometry, gas supply pressure and nozzle workpiece stand-off distance have a strong influence on the cut quality. The aim of the investigation is the numerical simulation of supersonic gas flow. Supersonic nozzles for laser applications are designed which can be manufactured more easily and cost effective than conventionally used Laval nozzles. For the simulation wall friction is regarded and the flow field is calculated two dimensional and assumed turbulent. Normal jet impingement for the designed nozzles and underexpanded conic-cylindrical nozzles is compared at various nozzle stand-off distances and shows a more constant pressure on the workpiece for the designed nozzles. Furthermore supersonic effects in the cut kerf are investigated and compared with results from Schlieren photographs. The nonlinear pressure distribution inside the kerf indicates both the shock formation and detachment of the gas flow. In the presence of shock waves the existing equations in finite volume form have been modified, as they lead to wrong predictions both in the shock location and strength due to an incorrect inertia term in the momentum equations.
A general theory for skid steering of tracked vehicles on firm ground

Abstract A general theory for skid steering of tracked vehicles under steady state conditions on firm ground, taking into account the shear stress-shear displacement relationship on the track-ground interface, is presented. The steering behaviour predicted using the general theory bears a strong resemblance to that observed in the field. The variations of sprocket torques for the outer and inner tracks with turning radius predicted by the general theory are in reasonably close agreement with available experimental data. On the other hand, predictions based on Steeds’ theory developed earlier differ greatly from measured results. Using the general theory, the lateral coefficient of friction used in the conventional method for predicting the moment of turning resistance of the track can be quantitatively determined as a function of turning radius. It is believed that the new theory presented in this paper provides a unified approach to the study of the mechanics of skid steering of tracked vehicles and that it may be extended to the study of transient handling behaviour of tracked vehicles.
Planning the Optimal Operation of a Multioutlet Water Reservoir with Water Quality and Quantity Targets

AbstractThe integration of quality and quantity issues in the management of water resources systems is key to meet society’s long-term needs for freshwater while maintaining essential ecological services and economic benefits. Current water management practices are mostly targeted towards quantitative uses, and quality is usually addressed separately as an independent problem. One of the reasons for the lack of integration lies in the inadequacy of optimization techniques nowadays available to cope with the large, distributed, simulation models adopted to characterize the coupled ecological and biochemical processes in water bodies. In this paper we propose a novel approach based on the conjunctive use of a batch-mode Reinforcement Learning algorithm and a one-dimensional (1D) coupled hydrodynamic-ecological model to design the optimal operation of a multipurpose water reservoir accounting for both quantity and quality targets. We consider up to five operating objectives, including both in-reservoir and d.
40.1: Invited Paper: Scrolling Color LCOS for HDTV Rear Projection

We report on advancements for a single‐panel Liquid Crystal On Silicon (LCOS) display based on the Philips scrolling‐color architecture. Performance and cost advantages make this system ideal for High Definition Television (HDTV). We discuss aspects of a 64″ rear projection display showing a 1280×720 image.
Mechanical design of an affordable adaptive gravity balanced orthosis for upper limb stroke rehabilitation

ABSTRACT In this paper, a novel design of a non-powered orthosis for upper limb stroke rehabilitation is reported. Its design exploits the gravity balancing theory. Designed for home-based use, it is the first affordable, passive design to incorporate an assistive level that can be adaptively varied within a closed-loop control scheme. This allows the device to be integrated with a dual robotic and electrical stimulation control scheme, to thereby enable full exploitation of the motor relearning principles which underpin both robotic therapy and Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) based stroke rehabilitation. This embeds the potential for more effective treatment. The article focuses on the mechanical design of the non-powered orthosis, providing detailed design, dynamic analysis and evaluation.
Evaluation of agility in supply chains using multi-grade fuzzy approach

Modern business organisations recognise agility in supply chains to be a vital strategy for survival in a competitive scenario. The assessment of agility in supply chains is quite important as it is an indicator of strategic agile position. There exists a need for evaluating agility in supply chains for the case organisation. This study begins by developing a conceptual model for evaluation. This is followed by gathering single factor assessment vector and weights by experts. Then multi-grade fuzzy approach has been used for the evaluation of agility in the supply chain. The evaluation exercise indicated that the case organisation is agile; but still there exist chances for improving the agility level. Then the weaker areas have been identified and the improvement proposals have been implemented. The implementation result indicated that there is a significant improvement in the agility level of the case organisation.
Laboratory bioassay of emerald ash borer adults with a Bacillus thuringiensis formulation sprayed on ash leaves

The emerald ash borer (EAB) (Agrilus planipennis), a buprestid native to Asia that feeds on ash trees (Fraxinus spp.), was discovered in southeast Michigan and nearby Ontario in 2002. It apparently arrived in the 1990's via infested solid-wood packing materials from China. As of 2011, areas considered generally infested with EAB in North America include Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Ontario, Canada. Additionally, infestations are known in Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Quebec, Canada (www.emeraldashborer.info). Since 2002, we have been studying biological and microbial controls for management of EAB in forested ecosystems of North America.
Analysis of Production Characteristics and Prediction of Recovery of Lianhua Oil Layer in Qi 3-17-5 Block

Through thirty years of development, Lianhua oil reservoir has entered into the stage of low-speed development. At present, the rate of oil production is only 0.0033%. Firstly, it divided development stage of Lianhua reservoir and analyzed production characteristics of each stage. By mean of the production decline curve, it predicted the recovery of the reservoir to estimate the ultimate recoverable reserves and the recovery percent. The results show that the ultimate recoverable reserves of Lianhua reservoir was about 50.813×104 t, the ultimate recovery was 13.177%, the recovery percent of recoverable reserves had reached up to 95.094%, and the remaining recoverable reserves were rare. Therefore, it urgently needs to find a more reasonable development model to do secondary development of Lianhua reservoir. The conclusions have an important realistic significance of guiding secondary development of the Lianhua reservoir.
Free creatures : The role of uselessness in the design of artificial pets

In less than five years, artificial pets have achieved a real commercial success. These apparently useless toys have been massively adopted, in Japan first, and progressively in the rest of the world. Children, and also adults to a large extent (see [Kus00]) have started to spend a significant part of their leisure time engaging in relationship with these artificial creatures. It is remarkable to note that this is not due to the realism of the artificial pets. The Tamagotchi and its successor were merely crude animated figures presented on low-tech displays. More recently, the AIBO, being designed as a robot with no fur, does not mimick a real dog . We will argue in this paper that the success of the existing artificial pets relies on some clever design principles. Among these principles is the fact that they are useless in the sense that they do not perform any service task. We will then discuss why we should follow this ’uselessness principle’ when we design artificial pets that are able to learn and adapt themselves.
Automatic Adjustment of Transformer and Phase-Shifter Taps in the Newton Power Flow

In recent years, Newton's method has been generally accepted as a superior algorithm for solving power flow problems. But the introduction of generator var limits, area-interchange control, load-tap- changing (LTC) transformers, and variable phase shifting transformers has significantly increased the solution times (compared with a fixed system). This paper shows how LTC transformers and variable phase-shifting transformers may be automatically adjusted by the Newton algorithm, thus complementing a previous inclusion of the area interchange control variables within the Newton algorithm [1]. Tests of the new method for adjusting LTC transformers and phase shifters indicate a significant overall saving in solution time.