Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Attention-based end-to-end CNN framework for content-based X-ray image retrieval

: The widespread use of medical imaging devices allows deep analysis of diseases. However, the task of examining medical images increases the burden of specialist doctors. Computer-assisted systems provide an effective management tool that enables these images to be analyzed automatically. Although these tools are used for various purposes, today, they are moving towards retrieval systems to access increasing data quickly. In hospitals, the need for content-based image retrieval systems is seriously evident in order to store all images effectively and access them quickly when necessary. In this study, an attention-based end-to-end convolutional neural network (CNN)framework that can provide effective access to similar images from a large X-ray dataset is presented. In the first part of the proposed framework, a fully convolutional network architecture with attention structures is presented. This section contains several layers for determining the saliency points of X-ray images. In the second part of the framework, the modified image with X-ray saliency map is converted to representative codes in Euclidean space by the ResNet-18 architecture. Finally, hash codes are obtained by transforming these codes into hamming spaces. The proposed study is superior in terms of high performance and customized layers compared to current state-of-the-art X-ray image retrieval methods in the literature. Extensive experimental studies reveal that the proposed framework can increase the current precision performance by up to 13
Optimum load matching in direct-coupled photovoltaic power systems

In this paper the load matching factor is used as a measure for the quality of load matching to the photovoltaic (PV) array. An optimization approach is used to solve the load matching problem with the objective of maximizing the load matching factor, and consequently the PV output energy. Thig approach is then applied to resistive loads (with and without an internal emf) connected to the array. Results show that optimum matching can be achieved by carefully selecting the array parameters with respect to the load parameters. The temperature of the array has little effect on the optimum matching factor. However, the optimum matching parameters are greatly affected by the array temperature. A maximum power tracker may not be needed if optimum or near optimum matching is achieved. A battery of selected parameters can be included if the load characteristic results in poor matching performance.
Study on Anodic Oxidation parameters for removal of pesticide Imidacloprid on a modified tantalum surface by lead dioxide film

The commercial imidacloprid (IMD) insecticide [1-(6-chloro-3-pyridinyl) methyl-4,5-dihydro-N-nitro-1H-imidazole-2-amine] is widely used for the enhancement of crop production, but the intensive use of this insecticide has caused serious environmental problems. This work presents an electrochemical process for the removal of this insecticide using galvanostatic electrolysis at modified tantalum surface by lead dioxide film anode (Ta(PbO2)) anode. The electrolytic process was monitored by chemical oxygen demand (COD). The influence of operating parameters, such as current density, initial concentration of IMD, temperature and initial pH value was investigated. The COD decay follows a pseudo first-order kinetic and the process was under mass transport control. COD removal reach 97% when using an apparent current density of 100 mA cm−2, initial COD of 953 mg L−1 and at 25 °C after 4.5 h electrolysis time.
Filter bank approach to the estimation of flexible modes in dynamic systems

Abstract : The problem of estimating frequencies of sinusoids buried in noise has been of great interest in both military and civilian applications. In particular, in Control Systems with flexible appendages the sinusoidal vibrations can cause instabilities and degrade the performance of the overall system. In this thesis the problem of identifying frequencies of disturbances in flexible systems using advanced Digital Signal Processing techniques such as filter banks and Quadrature Mirror Filters is addressed. In a number of situations there is a need to design a controller for a system with flexible modes. In particular, in space applications solar panels and robotic arms introduce flexible modes in the system which degrades the performance. In these kinds of applications, the frequencies of the flexible modes can not be modeled accurately a priori and they can change according to the operating conditions. The proposed approach is tested by computer simulations. ,,,,,,Satellite systems are being deployed on a regular basis these days with various missions, namely civilian or military. Among them, at a great percentage, are communications and observation. However, it has been observed that for these cases the existing vibrations from the flexible surfaces of the satellite and the atmospheric interferences add colored noise and consequently undermine the system's performance. In this thesis an approach to estimate frequencies in noise based on Filter Banks and Quadrature Mirror Filters is developed. The general idea is to decompose the signal into components at various frequency bands and compute the relative energy in the single bands.
Low-frequency electromagnetic fields for the detection of buried objects in the shallow sub-surface

This thesis explores the application of low-frequency electromagnetic fields, which may be excited within a buried pipe, for the detection of underground utilities. Low-cost network analyser technology, which can be applied to field-measurements of the relative-permittivity of soil, is evaluated. These technologies are compared to laboratory-grade alternatives whose cost prohibits their use for field work. Methodologies for the measurement of the relative-permittivity of soil are discussed with reference to the low-cost technology, including use of a novel coaxial cavity which incorporates a step-discontinuity. It is shown that there is potential for use of low-cost network analysers in measuring relative-permittivity, but that further research is required to formulate a complete methodology. The propagation of electromagnetic waves in layered media is discussed. The recent literature relating to this field is extensively reviewed, with several errors and omissions highlighted. A new calculation is presented which allows the calculation of the electromagnetic field due to a vertical electric dipole in a four-layered medium. Example results, including an approximation of a leaking pipe, are presented. Finally, two sets of field trials are reviewed. The first field trials looked to observe waves propagating with low-velocity in the ground, by measuring the phase change along an array of receiving probes. Waves, propagating with low-velocity, were observed. However, direction of arrival measurements were not achievable due to a combination of signal-to-noise ratio, and the expected phase change at the observed propagation-velocity, across an array of realistic size. The second field trials measured low-frequency electromagnetic fields, excited within a buried pipe, which were used to detect the location of the pipe with good correspondence to the ground truth. Furthermore, comparison with a ground-penetrating radar survey indicated that some anomalous results in the low-frequency electromagnetic survey corresponded to shallow targets detected using ground-penetrating radar.
Deciphering the Palaeocene–Eocene thermal maximum by Granger causality test

The Palaeocene–Eocene thermal maximum is a global warming period (~ 56 Ma), which is marked by a sharp negative carbon isotope excursion (CIE) that caused by the injection of massive isotopically-light carbon into the ocean-atmosphere. It is often considered that the carbon injection caused global warming. However, several studies have suggested that warming and environmental perturbations precede the onset of the CIE. Here we present Granger test to investigate the detailed mechanisms of this event. We show a shift from climate-warming driving carbon-emission scenario to a scheme in which carbon-injection causing global-warming during the CIE. The initial carbon emission might be from methane hydrates dissociation and/or permafrost thawing, possibly linked with astronomical paced warming. This change of causal direction may result from the warming feedback of the emitted carbon and additional carbon from other sources, such as volcanism, bolide impact, oxidation of marine organic matter, and wildfires burning peatlands.
Comparison of ECE-R66 and FMVSS 220 Tests for Selected Paratransit Bus

The main objective of this paper is to compare the performance of a selected paratransit bus subjected to two roof integrity tests, dynamic rollover test according to UN-ECE Regulation 66 (ECE-R66), and the quasi-static symmetric roof loading according the standard FMVSS 220. The investigation is carried out primarily using a numerical study accompanied by experimental tests on components and by a full scale roll over test. The first part of the research consisted of the FE model development, verification, experimental validation, final check using full scale rollover test, and calibration. The verification was primarily done through an energy balance check. The hierarchical validation involved three levels of experiments: material characterization, static and dynamic component testing and determination of the center of gravity. Next, the verified and validated model was used for prediction of the full scale test conducted following ECE-R66 procedures but with an increased drop height of 909 mm. The FE model was calibrated through a numerical parametric study and comparison with the full scale experiment. The calibrated model was used in the next stage which consisted of two numerical tests: dynamic rollover according to ECE-R66, and quasi-static roof loading following requirements of FMVSS 220. Results presented in the paper illustrate the fact that the final crashworthiness assessment of the paratransit buses depend on the selected evaluation codes. In addition to these discrepancies, the paper underscores consequences of using quasi-static testing methods for making a judgment on possible performance behavior of paratransit buses during violent, dynamic, rollover accidents.
Modelling and control of underwater inspection vehicle for aquaculture sites

Underwater vehicles such as AUVs and ROVs with hovering capabilities is a promising method for inspection of net integrity in large scale, sea based, salmon farms. The location of the salmon farms cause underwater vehicles to be affected by strong tidal currents and waves. In this thesis a six degree of freedom unified process plant model combining seakeeping theory and maneuvering theory for a small work ROV called Argus Mariner is developed. Using the software WAMIT, the hydrodynamic potential coefficients and wave induced forces and moments are found. A basic control system for traversing a dynamic netcage model is developed. The models and control system are implemented in a simulation environment called FhSim developed by SINTEF Fishery and Aquaculture AS.
Evaluation of a Game-Based Simulation During Distributed Exercises

Abstract : Two exercises using a Game-Based Simulation (GBS) were conducted by the U.S. Army Research Development and Engineering Command, Simulation and Training Technology Center (RDECOM-STTC) and the United Kingdom Land Warfare Development Group. Soldiers from the U.S. Army and the U.K. military conducted coalition mission rehearsals during each exercise. Data were collected on the system user interface, on the effectiveness of unit and joint exercise sessions, and on After Action Review (AAR) functionality and applications. Several issues in technological capabilities limited and constrained the military tasks that could be performed during the exercises, and limited the AARs. Nevertheless, questionnaire data collected during each exercise indicated several positive aspects of using game-based simulations. The GBS system was considered capable of providing considerable scope for general dismounted Soldier rehearsal and training. The graphics and user interface were judged adequate for use in training rehearsals and AARs, especially in preparation for home station field training exercises. The largest negative issue was the limited number of weapon types and equipment. The second largest issue was the limited equipment functionality that the system supported. A third issue was the lack of sufficient numbers of civilians and opposing forces for different interactions in the non-kinetic exercises.
The Contextual Analysis of Written Communication in Fraud and Non-fraud Companies: Comparing Enron and Facebook Communications.

: Written texts can reveal the personality traits of the authors of those documents. Beyond the differences in writing styles of individuals, the choice of words and use of vocabulary can be different for each individual depending on their personality traits. In this study, we use Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC2015) software to analyze the content of emails from a sample of Enron and Facebook executives. We compare the attributes revealed in these emails at the individual and company level. The results of the analysis indicate that there are significant differences in the personality traits of individuals in the two companies. We show that context analysis can be used as an aid to gain insight on the attributes of business leaders and such tool can potentially aid in identifying the fraud risk among a company’s C-suite executives.
ON THE FEASIBILITY OF CONTINUOUS MEASUREMENT OF TRACK GAUGE RESTRAINT

This report presents the results of a series of gauge restraint measurement tests conducted at the Association of American Railroads Technical Center in October 1978. The objective of this test series was to evaluate the feasibility of a continuous gauge widening resistance measuring device. It was also desired to evaluate the utility of such a device for indications of general track strength as well as specific tie and fastener conditions. The initial test results indicated that by monitoring of rail head deflection or lateral loading, depending on the specific system, it appears possible to measure track strength and specifically to locate and identify ties or fasteners in poor condition. Furthermore, because of the spring back of the rails after removal of the load it appears that such testing can be accomplished with a recommendation that further testing of this measurement concept be conducted and defines specific requirements for future prototype test vehicles.
The Performance of the Design-Build Alternative Delivery Approach in Military Construction.

Abstract : The U.S. construction industry is highly competitive, as well as fragmented. Despite this, construction has a significant impact on the U.S. economy. In 1994, the National Science and Technology Council estimated that the industry provided over 10 million jobs and produced $850 billion in project revenues (new construction and renovation) or approximately 13% of the gross domestic product (Wright, 1995). Unfortunately, the industry has been in a long downward slide and has only recently begun to recover. The problems of the U.S. construction industry in previous decades have been well documented, discussed and analyzed. Historically, the construction industry is slow to change (Schriener, 1995). In recent decades, the fluctuation in the building market, specialization, dissatisfaction with the traditional design-bid-build process, rising costs, schedule delays, demands for higher quality and increasing litigation have forced those in the construction industry to adapt or be driven out of business. Additionally, owners who do not tolerate poor quality and high costs within their own firm cannot and will not tolerate poor business practices within the construction industry. A quote from a 1983 study by the Business Roundtable perhaps best sums up the problems of the construction industry: 'Owners, who pay the bills, no longer get their money's worth for construction in the United States' (p. 3). Alternate delivery/contracting methods, modernization, value engineering, partnering and more aggressive management practices have come to the forefront as the construction industry attempts to counter its decline. For example, the design-build delivery approach has fast become an accepted project methodology. The U.S. Department of Commerce predicts that design-build will account for half of all nonresidential U.S. construction by 2001 (Rosenbaum 1995).
The Ambidrum: Automated Rhythmic Improvisation

This paper outlines a system for machine improvisation with a human performer where the focus is limited to the provision of rhythmic complementarity. Complementarity is achieved through the real-time measurement of metrical coherence in currently playing rhythmic material that informs the generation of subsequent material. A robust computational approach building on recent theories of improvisational intelligence and situated cognition is described. This algorithm can be effective across a range of musical styles.
Role of Training in Improving Performance

Training is often a key to improved performance. Performance appraisal is a systematic process that assesses the performance of an employee and measures his contribution to the organizational objectives. The deficiencies brought at in the appraisal can be corrected through training. The paper attempts to understand perceptions of employees at Andhra Pradesh State Financial Corporation (APSFC) with regard to performance appraisal and how training plays a key role in correcting the deficiencies in performance.
Good Office Design

This book examines the trends and innovations at the cutting edge of office design in the UK today. Selected from British Council for Offices Award winners since 2002 and interpreting empirical analyses by Davis Langdon, the varied and stunningly illustrated case studies presented here demonstrate the latest thinking from the world of workplace design. Taken together, they offer insight and inspiration for architects, developers, clients and anyone interested in getting the very best out of places of work. Written by the distinguished author and journalist David Littlefield, the text is sharp and authoritative, and complemented by colour photographs, floor plans, elevations and detail drawings. The chapters are organised into salient topics the Workplace, Location, Structure, Cost and Sustainability but along the way take account of numerous critical issues such as light levels and staff amenities. A wide-ranging end chapter, written by Jeremy Myerson and Paul Warner, knits together contemporary socio-cultural influences to imagine the future of the office
Understanding user acceptance of Digital Library

The use of Digital library has grown considerably past two decades. Using new tech-nology effectively depends on acceptance for that technology, which in turn would be affected by users’ perception of that technology’s usefulness and ease of use. Research on "usable" digital library shows that potential users of digital libraries may not use it, in spite of the system availability and the millions of dollars that have been spent. There is a need to identify external factors which has an affect users’ intention of using this system.
Plant Electrophysiological Information Manifests the Composition and Nutrient Transport Characteristics of Membrane Protein

Background: Almost all life activities of plants are accompanied by electrophysiological information. Plant electrical parameters are considered to be the fastest response to environment.Results: In this study, the theoretically intrinsic relationships between the clamping force and leaf resistance (R), capacitive reactance (Xc) and inductive reactance (XL) were revealed as 3-parameter exponential decay based on bioenergetics for the first time. The intrinsic resistance (IR), intrinsic capacitive reactance (IXc) and intrinsic inductive reactance (IXL) in plant leaves were monitored via these relationships for the first time, and the nutrient transport capacity (NTC) in plant cells based on IR, IXc and IXL was first defined. The results indicate that IXc and IXL could be used to manifest the composition of surface and binding proteins in cell membrane, plant with high crude proteins and crude ash had higher NTC, and which accurately revealed the nutrient transport strategies in tested plants. Conclusions: This study highlights that plant electrophysiological information could effectively manifest the composition and nutrient transport characteristics of membrane protein in plant cells.
Text as data

Mining text is difficult. Text represents unstructured data. This reflects the fact that text does not appear in a structured form that we can present using an Excel table with columns and rows having specific meanings. Of course, text does have a structure, but it is not of the type that can be fed into an algorithm for analysis. The structure of a text is linguistic, which has evolved through time so that the written or spoken words can be understood by humans and not computers. Therefore, text must be pre-processed before it can be fed into a computer algorithm.
DISCOVERING CULTURAL INFLUENCES DURING THE ‘SCRIPTING’ OF PRODUCTS

The social nature of design education provides an interesting forum when investigating characteristics that are embedded in the designing of products. This paper illustrates one aspect of an ongoing research investigation of industrial design students, their educational context, and the products that are designed. Two case studies are highlighted in this paper, with each investigating the ‘explicitly taught’ information learned in the student’s educational context, and ‘implicitly present’ information that has been gained throughout the student’s life. Case study 1 uses questionnaire and informal interview procedures, and case study 2 uses a multi-method approach with a variety of collection mechanisms (i.e. video taping, photography, sketch book reviewing) documenting an eight-week design project. Insights are hereby gained into the social and cultural forces that influence the ‘scripting’ of designed products, which it is envisaged, will provide a more holistic understanding of the design process, design culture, and the education and socialisation of design students.
School improvement through performance feedback

Introduction The School Performance Feedback Concept The Origins of School Performance Feedback Systems Structure of the Book References PART 1: Theoretical Introduction Chapter 1: Evidence on the Role and Impact of Performance Feedback in Schools Chapter 2: A Typology of Indicators Chapter 3: A Framework for Studying School Performance Feedback Systems PART 2: Evidence on School Performance Feedback Chapter 4: The ABC+ Model for School Diagnosis, Feedback, and Improvement Chapter 5: Using School Effectiveness as a Knowledge Base for Self-evaluation in Dutch Schools: the ZEBO-project Chapter 6: Jolts and Reactions: Two Decades of Feeding Back Information on Schools' Performance Chapter 7: Performance Feedback to Schools of Students' Year 12 Assessments: The VCE Data Project Chapter 8: Performance Indicators in Primary Schools PART 3: Conclusions, Reflections and Recommendations Chapter 9: Drawing up the Balance Sheet for School Performance Feedback Systems