Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Shearing Transformation Based Blind Source Separation Method and Its Application

A new shearing transformation based Blind Source Separation (BSS) method is proposed in the paper for instant mixed signals. The principle of the proposed method is based on the direct construction of de-mixing matrix through the seeking of the optimal shearing transformation angles. Satisfactory results are achieved in the application of separating mixed speech signals and mixed bearing sound signals.
Determination of nano-roughness for micro-objects by measuring the van der Waals force

3D printing or assembly techniques in the micro/nano‐world enable produc‐ tion of micro‐parts for building small machines or structures for biomedicine applications, such as cultivation of living cells in the field of Tissue Engineer‐ ing. Micro‐sized assembly requires automated manipulation procedures and methods for determination of suitable objects for assembly. The latter is pos‐ sible by van der Waals force measurement and determination of distance at the van der Waals peak between two objects in contact. They are dependent not only on the Hamaker coefficients of the materials in contact and their geometries, but also on the nano‐roughness asperities and crystal structure asperities of the contact surfaces. A method is presented for measuring van der Waals` force and determining micro‐objects’ (sizes between 10‐100 μm) distances between materials in contact at the van der Waals peak in the pres‐ ence of nano‐roughness and crystal structure roughness. The proposed model was validated by experimental lab results between various materials and shapes (glass and polystyrene beads, metallic wires). © 2019 CPE, University of Maribor. All rights reserved.
Structural Health Monitoring Using High-Density Fiber Optic Strain Sensor and Inverse Finite Element Methods

Abstract In an effort to mitigate accidents due to system and component failure, NASA’s Aviation Safety has partnered with industry, academia, and other governmental organizations to develop real-time, on-board monitoring capabilities and system performance models for early detection of airframe structure degradation. NASA Langley is investigating a structural health monitoring capability that uses a distributed fiber optic strain system and an inverse finite element method for measuring and modeling structural deformations. This report describes the constituant systems that enable this structural monitoring function and discusses results from laboratory tests using the fiber strain sensor system and the inverse finite element method to demonstrate structural deformation estimation on an instrumented test article. Introduction NASA Langley Research Center has developed instrumentation based upon principles of Optical Frequency-Domain Reflectometry (OFDR) for the provision of large-scale, densely distributed strain sensors using optical fiber embedded with Bragg gratings. Fiber Optic Bragg Grating technology enables the distribution of thousands of sensors that are immune to moisture and electromagnetic interference and have negligible weight penalty. The theory and development of this technology, called FOSS (Fiber Optic Strain System) is described in [1]. The algorithms and methods for deriving strain from an OFDR measurement system are described in [2]. At NASA Langley, this technology provides a key component for research and development relevant to comprehensive aerospace vehicle structural health monitoring (SHM). It has been lab tested in various applications. Notably, FOSS was used during structural testing of an advanced composite transport wing box [3]. An integrated prototype system has been developed that includes hardware and software for the acquisition of data from an optical network and conversion of the data into strain measurements. To enable a comprehensive structural health capability, an inverse finite element method (iFEM) has been developed that uses the measured strain data to compute the full-field displacements and, subsequently, internal loads experienced by the structure in real time. The technique is applicable to thin and moderately thick beams, plates, shells, and built-up structures. The mathematical foundation for iFEM is described in [5]. This report briefly describes the FOSS system and the inverse finite element method and demonstrates the capability of the approach using a simple structural test. The structural test was conducted on an instrumented beam test article subjected to tip deflection. The strain measurements were used by the inverse finite element model to reconstruct the deformed shape of the beam. Details of the configuration of the beam test article and the experimental results are described. The report concludes with a discussion of issues and potential areas of future research.
Do lifestyle choices influence the development of overweight and obesity in the South African Air Force, Bloemfontein?

Objectives: A study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity at Air Force Base Bloemspruit in Bloemfontein, Free State, and the dietary and lifestyle factors and physical activity which may play a role in the development thereof. Design: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. Setting: Five units situated at the Air Force Base Bloemspruit, Bloemfontein were included. Subjects: The study included 166 active-duty military personnel (136 males and 30 females) aged 21–59 years. A convenience sample of volunteers participated in the study. Outcome measures: The body mass index (BMI) of the participants was calculated using weight and height, and waist circumference was measured using standardised techniques. The dietary intake of participants was evaluated using a self-administered food frequency questionnaire. Results: A high prevalence of overweight (38.6%) and obesity (36.1%) was identified in the study population. No significant associations were detected between lifestyle factors or physical activity and BMI. The majority of participants (59.6%) consumed three meals per day. Meal frequency did not differ between different BMI categories, and no associations were found between meal frequency and being overweight or obese. Inadequate intake of fruit and vegetables was observed. Conclusion: A high prevalence of overweight and obesity was observed in this study, which calls for urgent intervention. No associations were, however, found between dietary and lifestyle factors and the presence of overweight and/or obesity. Further investigation is required to identify the causes of overweight and obesity and effective ways to address this health challenge.
Evaluation of Nitrogen Fertilization in C4 Grasses Grown for Bioenergy

Nitrogen fertilization has the potential to significantly affect yield, nutrient concentration and removal and overall stand longevity of C4 grasses grown for bioenergy production. While most studies report that these grasses need little to no fertilizer inputs to maximize yield, no specific recommendations have been given for fertilizer requirements across a wide range of C4 perennial grass species, cultivars, harvest timings and N application rates. Two field trials were established in the summer of 2008 in Ridgetown and Elora, Ontario to compare 4 Miscanthus (M. sinensis and M. sacchariflorus crosses; Nagara-116 and Amuri-114, and Miscanthus x giganteus; M1 Select and Polish), 2 switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.; Cave-in-rock and Shelter) and 2 big bluestem varieties (Andropogon gerardii Vitman; Prairie view and Southlow), 4 nitrogen fertilization rates (0, 40, 80, and 160 kg N ha-1) and 2 harvest timings (fall vs. spring harvest). Plots were harvested in the fall of 2009 and spring and fall of 2010. Yield response to N fertilization varied by location, species and year. In general, increasing N fertilization rates generated an increased yield response in all tested species. Different rates of N fertilization resulted in variable responses to N, P and K tissue concentrations and removal in switchgrass and Miscanthus. Tissue N concentrations and removal both increased with added N fertilization at both locations. In most cases N removal was the highest at the highest N application rate. Nitrogen concentrations were highest in the leaves and seed heads across species, N rates and locations. P and K concentrations and removal with increasing N fertilization in the whole plant and in individual plant parts did not follow clear trends in either Miscanthus or switchgrass in both locations. Delaying harvest to spring reduced yield at both locations by 35-42% and 62-65% for Miscanthus and switchgrass, respectively. Yield losses by delaying harvesting to the spring were increased with higher rates of N fertilization. Delaying harvesting decreased N, P and K concentration and removal in most grasses and locations.
Passive, Highly-Sensitive, Room-Temperature Magnetic Field Sensors and Arrays for Detection and Imaging of Hidden Threats in Urban Environments

Abstract : This material is based on research sponsored by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) under agreement number FA8650-09-1-7945. The U.S. Government is authorized to reproduce and distribute reprints for Governmental purposes notwithstanding any copyright notation thereon. Virginia Tech has achieved noise floors of about 1pT/root of Hz at f=1Hz in passive sensors operated at room temperature that consisted of magnetostrictive Metglas layers bonded to piezoelectric PMN-PT single crystal fiber ones. These noise floors were benchmarked by our international team members at the University of Caen. Furthermore, Passive Sensors has developed 3x3 arrays of ME sensors, also achieving noise floors on the order of 1pT/root of Hz at f=1Hz. Working together Virginia Tech and University of Caen have developed gradiometers with high common mode rejection efficiencies, enabling real world applications. Overall the investigations have clearly identified Metglas/PMN-PT tri-layer laminates as the superior technology.
From evaluation to meta-evaluation of engineers' training in the automotive industry

This thesis presents and analyses the evaluation of an European wide training programme aimed at engineers working in a large multinational automotive company. The training programme is unique in that it was conceived to address particular operational concerns and involved a multicultural workforce from six European countries. The evaluation of the training, which extends from the pilot stages of the programme through to its full implementation, where Kirkpatrick's four level evaluation framework is used, is the company’s first large scale attempt at systematic training evaluation. The evaluation of the programme is typical in its approach as reflected in the wide body of literature, however the use of meta-evaluation to determine the overall value of the evaluation approach in a commercial context provides originality and the basis for establishing an alternative approach to evaluating vocational training. The main body of the thesis is presented in three parts. Part I provides a critical review of the literature relating to; learning and training; conceptualisations of evaluation; and measurement and evaluation methodology, to establish the foundation for the empirical study. Part II is a detailed analysis of the evaluand, the evaluation methodology employed, and the results and outcomes from the evaluation. Part III provides directions for training evaluation based on a meta-evaluation of the empirical study. The thesis draws conclusions with respect to the role of evaluation in organisational training. The evaluation of training is largely conceptualised in the literature as being concerned with the assessment of value or worth of training to an organisation, which is the prevailing paradigm of Kirkpatrick's training evaluation framework. From the evidence obtained through the empirical study with regard to utility, feasibility, propriety and accuracy, it is concluded that the role of evaluation should be directed towards maximising value or worth of training through the systematic assessment, feedback and optimisation of the identifiable parameters of the training process, with the outcomes of training forming part of an overall evaluation of training framework.
EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS AND MODELING OF SEQUENTIAL ROUTE CHOICE UNDER AN ADVANCED TRAVELER INFORMATION SYSTEM IN A SIMPLISTIC TRAFFIC NETWORK

An experiment to collect sequential route choice data under the influence of an advanced traveler information system was performed using a personal computer-based simulation. The experiment collected information on drivers' pretrip route choice behavior at three levels of information accuracy: 60, 75, and 90%. An analysis of variance was performed on the data to investigate the interrelationships among the different variables in an attempt to develop an understanding of what factors significantly influence route choice behavior and learning. An attempt was made to model sequential route choice behavior using a binary logit model formulation; the results were mixed. It was assumed that drivers update their knowledge of the system on the basis of their previous experiences; therefore an information updating function was specified and incorporated into the model. The results indicate that drivers can rapidly identify the accuracy level of information and that they adjust their behavior accordingly. Evidence also indicates that an accuracy threshold level exists below which drivers will not follow advice and above which drivers readily follow advice. It was found that male subjects agreed with advice more often than females, that less experienced drivers agreed more often than experienced drivers, and that a "freeway bias" exists with drivers much more willing to follow advice to take a freeway route. The model of route choice behavior had a prediction rate that was 79% accurate, which also indicated that previous experiences had little effect on current route choices. This value may be the result of a misspecified updating function, indicating that further research is required to identify these learning relationships.
HTS inductive energy controlled discharging circuit & its application in the design of UPS

High temperature superconducting magnet (HTS) inductive energy charging and discharging characteristics and its nature has been theoretically dealt in this report and its detailed analysis by specific models and graphs has been presented so as to portray light on the future advancement in this field with the design of UPS. All the design are done using SIMULINK/MATLAB and the charging and discharging characteristics shows the advantage of HTS. And, this simulation results will support the development of UPS (uninterruptible power source) using the SMES technology with substantial great advantages. Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage is a novel technology that stores electricity from the grid within the magnetic field of a coil comprised of superconducting wires with near zero loss of energy. SMES is a grid enabling device that stores and release large quantities of power almost instantaneously. The organization is capable of releasing high levels of ability within a fraction of a cycle to replace sudden loss or dip in line power. Strategic injection of brief bursts of power can play a crucial part in maintaining grid reliability, especially with today increasingly congested power lines and the high penetration of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. A typical SMES consists of two parts- cryogenically cooled superconducting coil and power conditioning system which are motionless and result in higher reliability than many other power storage devices. Ideally, once the superconductivity coil is charged, the current will not decay and the magnetic energy can be stored indefinitely.
Exploring value co-creation within networks : actor-to-actor service provision within a public transport service system

Purpose: This study explores how value co-creation occurs at a network level in a service system comprising representatives of business, consumer, and community actors. The research centres on the following questions: 1) what kind of operand and operant resources are contributed and integrated in the value co-creation process? 2) What value-in-use is experienced by actors? 3) What factors facilitate service-system functionality and value cocreation? Drawing on service-dominant logic, IMP literature and a qualitative case study the paper provides new insights into value co-creation at a network/system-level. Methodology: A case study approach is employed to examine a unique partnership between a public transport provider and community groups who are invited to ‘adopt’ railway stations in Scotland. The ‘adopt a station’ scheme allows community users to utilize unused space within the station free of charge in order to provide services or facility improvements to benefit the community. The case represents a service-system where value co-creation occurs within Actor to Actor interactions in the interplay of C-to-C, B-to-C and B-to-B context, involving consumers, members of the community, rail staff and governmental organisations. Findings: The study describes resource contribution and integration involving a range of actors. In the Adopt a Station case, organizational actors contributed principally operand (financial and physical) resources, and the community actors and rail operator become in themselves the operant resources that integrate resources, promote the network and build relationships through their drive and passion to make the adopt project a success. The provision of resources was motivated by the value-in-use each actor anticipates gaining from involvement in the service-system. Four critical prerequisites for value co-creation within the service-system were identified: the provision of access and nature of that access; the level of ownership taken by adopters; user empowerment, and an increased level of support from other actors in the service-system. Contribution: The study of value creation within service systems comprising of relationships between a range of actors (both business and consumer) represents an interesting research gap in both S-D logic and IMP literature. This paper addresses calls for research to increase understanding of value co-creation at the service system and network level. The paper contributes by illustrating a) resources contributed and integrated at network-level and b) the value-in-use experienced by multiple actors c) the prerequisites for successful value co-creation. We suggest that firms should explore the potential for engaging versatile stakeholders and their networks of relationships around a common cause and make use of organically emerging service systems.
Measuring Technology and Mechatronics Automation IV

This two-volume set contains 317 peer-reviewed papers from the Fourth International Conference on Measuring Technology and Mechatronics Automation (ICMTMA). The latter aimed to provide a high-level international forum where scientists, engineers and educators could present the state-of-the-art of measurement technology and mechatronics automation research and their applications in diverse fields.
EnronOnline and Informational Efficiency in the U.S. Natural Gas Market

We investigate the impact of the introduction and exit of EnronOnline on the efficiency of the U.S. natural gas market. In particular, we examine the natural gas market informational efficiencies by investigating the time-series properties of natural gas prices: changes in natural gas price long-term dependency, comovement of the spot and futures prices, and changes in volatility patterns in the futures prices and spot prices at representative trading hubs. We find evidence that the introduction and demise of EOL coincided with the improvement and worsening in the degree of the market informational efficiency.
COMPASS: TO DESIGN FUNCTIONAL MIXES

As a consequence of the ever-increasing traffic and the concomitant requirements put on pavements, there has been a growing interest in modelling pavement structures. The majority of these models have been based on linear elastic theory. Unfortunately, road-building materials, like asphalt mixes, do not meet the assumptions behind this theory. In this paper the linear viscoelastic program VEROAD is used for pavement evaluation and for calculation of the displacements, stresses and strains. As such, VEROAD is used in COMPASS, an integrated mix/pavement design procedure. This procedure is proposed and discussed. COMPASS is an acronym for COmbined Mix/PAvement Structure Selection and enables a functional evaluation of the viscoelastic/"plastic" behaviour of pavement structures. As the pavement and the mix design are integrated the design of both is optimised in terms of resistance to permanent deformation, fatigue, crack initiation and crack growth. Permanent deformation is ascribed to either viscous deformation or plastic flow. The viscous deformation is calculated and the susceptibility for plastic flow is characterised. Fatigue performance is evaluated using both a conventional strain-based and a more modern energy-based approach. Moreover, the residual stresses and the amount of energy dissipated at the surface are used to evaluate the potential appearance of surface cracks. Finally, the effect of different loading speeds on pavement behaviour is evaluated. A pavement structure is analysed to demonstrate the practical relevance of VEROAD and COMPASS. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E202467.
Interference-Aware Multicast in Wireless Mesh Network

Interference is one of the most challenging issues in wireless network. Communication between a transmitter and receiver pair causes radio wave propagation to interfere with other nearby communication that may result blocking that link. In Multicast, since almost simultaneous communication takes place along several branches of a Multicast distribution tree, these branches tend to mutually block each other due to interference. In this research we introduced an Interference-Aware Multicast routing protocol. First, it divides the nodes in the Multicast distribution tree in three GORby-Groups: Transmit, REC1 (receiving) and REC2 (standby). Then we calculate the SINR of the node based on interferences caused by all the nodes within that GORby-Group, assuming when the given node is in the transmit mode then all the nodes within its GORby-Group will also be in the transmit mode. Then we use the computed SINRs in our join Multicast group algorithm to achieve the most SINR.
Mixing and drying mud and ash at Tully Mill

Disposal of mud and ash, particularly in wet weather conditions, is a significant expense for mills. This paper reports on part of a process to pelletise mud and ash, aimed at making mud and ash more attractive to growers across entire mill districts. The full process and the re-constituting and centrifuging rotary vacuum filter mud part of the process were described in two papers to the 2011 conference. The component described in this paper involves aspects of mixing mud and ash with subsequent drying using boiler exit gas. The mud material needs to mix easily with boiler ash and the mixture has to feed easily into and be pneumatically conveyed by a flue gas dryer. The performance of a pilot flue gas dryer for drying mud and ash was evaluated. The mud and ash mixture was found to dry much faster than final bagasse, provided the mud and ash material was broken up into individual particles. A previously developed computer model of bagasse drying was updated to take into account the smaller particle size of the mud and ash mixture. This upgraded model predicted the performance of the pilot flue gas dryer well.