Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of financial incentive programs in promoting sustainable forestry in the west.

Selected forestry officials in each of the 13 western states were surveyed in 2005 concerning their opinions on the public and private financial incentive programs available to nonindustrial private forest owners in their state. The officials were asked to name and describe the programs and to assess forest owners’ awareness of each one, its appeal among owners aware of it, its effectiveness in encouraging sustainable forestry and enabling owners to meet their objectives, and the percent of program practices that remain in place and enrolled acres that remain in forest over time. They also were asked to suggest ways to improve the programs. The FSP, FLEP, and FLP were among the top-rated federal programs. Programs sponsored by states and private organizations tended to be more narrowly targeted than federal programs and scored well for specific attributes of sustainability. The officials’ suggestions for program improvement largely centered on increasing visibility and availability, ensuring long-term consistency in funding, and simplifying the application and approval processes.
An ImprovedMultiobjectiveDifferential Evolution based on Pareto-adaptive-dominance andOrthogonalDesign

Evolutionary multiobjective optimization has become a very popular topic in the last few years. Since the 1980s, various evolutionary approaches that are capable of searching for multiple solutions simultaneously in a single run have been developed to solve multiobjective optimization problems (MOPs). However, to find a uniformly distributed, near-complete, and near-optimal Pareto front in a small number of fitness function evaluations (NFFEs) is a challenging task for any multiobjective optimization evolutionary algorithm (MOEA). In this paper, we present an improved differential evolution algorithm to MOPs that combines several features of previous evolutionary algorithms in a unique manner. It is characterized by a) employing the orthogonal design method with quantization technique to generate the initial population, b) adopting an archive to store the nondominated solutions and employing the new Pareto-adaptive -dominance method to update the archive at each generation, c) storing the extreme points and inserting them into the final archive in order to remedy one of the limitations of -dominance: the loss of the extreme points in the final archive, and d) using a hybrid selection mechanism in which a random selection and an elitist selection are alternated in order to allow using the archive solution to guide the search towards the Pareto-optimal front. Experiments have been conducted on a number of unconstrained real-valued artificial functions of two and three objectives. The results prove the efficiency of our approach with respect to the quality of the approximation of the Pareto-optimal front and the considerable reduction of NFFEs in these test problems. By examining the selected performance metrics, our approach is found to be statistically competitive with five state-of-the-art MOEAs in terms of keeping the diversity of the individuals along the tradeoff surface, finding a well-approximated Pareto-optimal front and reducing the computational effort.
A new FPGA-based postprocessor architecture for channel mismatch correction of time interleaved ADCS

A new hardware efficient, low power postprocessor architecture is presented in this paper to correct the mismatch errors in time interleaved ADCs. The Least Mean Squares (LMS) algorithm is utilized as correction algorithm to identify the offset and gain mismatches. The proposed architecture uses one processing core for calibrating all parallel channels output codes with reference channel. Increasing in the number of parallel channels in the time interleaved ADC does not considerably affect the required hardware for proposed postprocessor. FPGA synthesis results of the designed postprocessor for 4-channels 10bit ADC show that in same throughput, 55% and 25% reduction in the resources usage and power consumption is achievable over conventional architecture.
Modulation-Adaptive Cooperation Schemes for Wireless Networks

Cooperative communications can exploit the distributed spatial diversity-gain to improve the link performance. In this paper, we investigate the application of adaptive modulation concept to the decode-and-forward (DF) based cooperative network. With the relay nodes geographically close to the destination, we assume the perfect channel feedback is available only at the relay nodes, and propose a class of novel modulation-adaptive cooperation schemes (MACSs). The proposed schemes are first investigated in the single-relay scenario, and then extended to the multi-relay scenario. Simulation results show that the proposed schemes can offer the significant throughput-improvement in comparison with conventional DF systems.
A Digitally Controlled Low-EMI SPWM Generation Method for Inverter Applications

This paper presents a digitally controlled way of generating the sinusoidal signal with less memory consumption. Moreover, this paper also presents a new switching frequency modulation technique. This technique utilizes the concept of spread spectrum frequency modulation that is used to suppress the electromagnetic interference (EMI) caused by high switching frequencies. Measurement results at the output sine pulse-width generation show that when the spread spectrum technique was applied to the conventional triangular wave and the fundamental, second, and third harmonics of switching frequency were reduced, respectively, by 12.8, 11.2, and 16.4 dB trading off with the slight increase in total harmonic distortion (THD) of 0.092% from a THD of 2.34%. While in the inverter output, there was a 14-dB reduction in EMI peak in exchange to 0.12% increase in THD from a THD of 2.57%.
A survey of pid controller design based on gain and phase margins

This paper focuses on the PID controller design based on the gain and phase margin (GPM) specifications for a given signalinput-signal-output plant. The basic ideas, techniques, and results are presented in language and notation familiar. Since the definitions of GPM equations are highly nonlinear, an analytical tuning method is not yet available. Approximation and fuzzy neural network (FNN) approaches are adopted to treat this problem. Then, they are used to automatically tune the PID controller parameters for GPM specifications so that neither numerical methods nor graphical methods need be used. Applications of usual used processfirst order with time delay plant are extended to general plant by the FNN approach. In addition, the robust PID controller is definition and presented. Finally, a novel PI-PD controller scheme based on GPM is firstly proposed to obtain the better performance. Simulation results are also presented to show the effectiveness. c ©2003 Yang’s Scientific Research Institute, LLC. All rights reserved.
A Phenomenological Model of the Electrically Stimulated Auditory Nerve Fiber: Temporal and Biphasic Response Properties

We present a phenomenological model of electrically stimulated auditory nerve fibers (ANFs). The model reproduces the probabilistic and temporal properties of the ANF response to both monophasic and biphasic stimuli, in isolation. The main contribution of the model lies in its ability to reproduce statistics of the ANF response (mean latency, jitter, and firing probability) under both monophasic and cathodic-anodic biphasic stimulation, without changing the model's parameters. The response statistics of the model depend on stimulus level and duration of the stimulating pulse, reproducing trends observed in the ANF. In the case of biphasic stimulation, the model reproduces the effects of pseudomonophasic pulse shapes and also the dependence on the interphase gap (IPG) of the stimulus pulse, an effect that is quantitatively reproduced. The model is fitted to ANF data using a procedure that uniquely determines each model parameter. It is thus possible to rapidly parameterize a large population of neurons to reproduce a given set of response statistic distributions. Our work extends the stochastic leaky integrate and fire (SLIF) neuron, a well-studied phenomenological model of the electrically stimulated neuron. We extend the SLIF neuron so as to produce a realistic latency distribution by delaying the moment of spiking. During this delay, spiking may be abolished by anodic current. By this means, the probability of the model neuron responding to a stimulus is reduced when a trailing phase of opposite polarity is introduced. By introducing a minimum wait period that must elapse before a spike may be emitted, the model is able to reproduce the differences in the threshold level observed in the ANF for monophasic and biphasic stimuli. Thus, the ANF response to a large variety of pulse shapes are reproduced correctly by this model.
Current-fed quadratic full-bridge converter for PV systems interfacing: Static operation

Interfacing a single photovoltaic (PV) module into either a single-phase or a three-phase inverter requires an interfacing converter with wide conversion range and sufficient dynamic headroom. In terms of avoiding issues with common-mode currents between the PV module and the inverter, a converter with galvanic isolation is preferred. This is especially important with the emerging thin-film modules that have larger cell-to-frame parasitic capacitances compared to traditional modules. This paper presents the current-fed quadratic full-bridge buck converter (CFQFB) for the first time and discusses its steady-state operation. The foundation for the proposed topology is based on the concept of true current-fed converters that differ fundamentally from the conventional voltage-fed converters as will be discussed. The relevant analytical steady-state equations and waveforms are presented first with the operational details of the proposed converter. The analytical claims are verified with extensive measurement results from a corresponding 190-W prototype. According to the measurements, the prototype reached an efficiency of 92% at the maximum power point (MPP) of the PV module.
A Robust Zero-Watermarking Algorithm for Vector Digital Maps Based on Statistical Characteristics

This paper presented a new zero-watermarking algorithm for vector digital maps based on statistical characteristics. The watermark information is constructed by utilizing the original data's characteristics. We divide the map into rings by using concentric circles and count the number of vertices in each ring, which is the feature information. A zero watermark image is constructed by using feature information and copyright information. Experiments show that the watermarks are resilient to translation, scaling, vertex deletion and growth, rotation, random noise, objects scrambling and cropping, making it a robust algorithm.
Optimal controller synthesis for the decentralized two-player problem with output feedback

In this paper, we present a controller synthesis algorithm for a decentralized control problem. We consider an architecture in which there are two interconnected linear subsystems. Both controllers seek to optimize a global quadratic cost, despite having access to different subsets of the available measurements. Many special cases of this problem have previously been solved, most notably the state-feedback case. The generalization to output-feedback is nontrivial, as the classical separation principle does not hold. Herein, we present the first explicit state-space realization for an optimal controller for the general two-player problem.
A Psycho-Pedagogical Framework for Self-Regulated Learning in a Responsive Open Learning Environment

To empower the learner for true lifelong and personalised learning with a responsive open learning environment (ROLE) is one aim of the ROLE project. A psycho-pedagogical integration model (PPIM) towards supporting learning has been developed by facilitating the concept of personalised self-regulated learning. The first version of the ROLE PPIM is presented in this paper and gives a general view of the components of this model. The central part of the PPIM is the description of the self-regulated learning process and how it can be personalised by learners using adaptive guidance of ROLE.
Why Take Young Children Outside? A Critical Consideration of the Professed Aims for Outdoor Learning in the Early Years by Teachers from England and Wales

This comparative study between Wales and England was undertaken to better understand what influences or drives the professed aims for outdoor provision of early years teachers; specifically the extent to which professed aims reflect the research-based literature common to both countries, and/or statutory curricular, which differs in each country. The research gathered quantitative and qualitative data through an online survey. Participants were teachers of children aged four to five years working in the respective country’s University partnership schools. Partnership schools are those who work with the University to train teachers. The findings suggest Welsh teachers aim and plan to use their outdoor spaces explicitly for curriculum-related learning more so than their English counterparts who appear not to identify such specific curriculum-related learning outcomes but to emphasise personal/social/dispositional aspects of development for young children when outside. This research indicates how the divergence of education-related policy and curriculum appears to have impacted upon the way practitioners express their aims for outdoor learning in England and Wales. The values underpinning the relative curricular documentation appear to emerge in the intended practice of early years teachers in both countries. The values underpinning the academic discourse related to provision for outdoor activity is much less prominent in the responses to the surveys from English and Welsh teachers.
Analysis on Soft-Decision-and-Forward Cooperative Networks with Multiple Relays

SUMMARY In this paper, we analyze the best relay selection scheme for the soft-decision-and-forward (SDF) cooperative networks with multiple relays. The term ‘best relay selection’ implies that the relay having the largest end-to-end signal-to-noise ratio is selected to transmit in the second phase transmission. The approximate performances in terms of pairwise error probability (PEP) and bit error rate (BER) are analyzed and compared with the conventional multiple-relay transmission scheme where all the relays participate in the second phase transmission. Using the asymptotics of the Fox’s H-function, the diversity orders of the best relay selection and conventional relay scheme for the SDF cooperative networks are derived. It is shown that both have the same full diversity order. The numerical results show that the best relay selection scheme outperforms the conventional one in terms of bit error rate.
LuposDate: a semantic web database system

Managing and querying Semantic Web are important issues for Semantic Web applications. Therefore, we have developed a Semantic Web database system with logically and physically optimized SPARQL engines to manage and query RDF data, named LuposDate. In order to present the functionalities of the LUPOSDATE system and engines, we have developed an online demonstration, which is available at http://www.ifis. uni-luebeck.de/index.php? id=luposdate-demo.
In situ evaluation of the ruminal and intestinal degradability of extruded whole lupin seed nitrogen.

The effect of whole lupin seeds (Lupinus albus cv Lublanc) at 120, 150 and 195 degrees C on in situ nitrogen degradability (Dg.N) was measured by the nylon bag technique using fistulated non-lactating Holstein cows. The N degradation was evaluated in nylon bags suspended in the rumen; heating the seeds at 120, 150 and 195 degrees C decreased the Dg.N value: 83.9, 72.9 and 53.0 respectively vs 95.3% (rumen outflow rate of 0.06/h). To estimate the total N disappearing in the digestive tract, bags were incubated in the rumen for 16 h, then in a pepsin bath for 2 h and then introduced into the duodenum for subsequently recovery in feces. The whole tract degradability of N was always high, approximately 98.3%. The amounts of N which disappeared in the intestine increased from 3.1 (untreated seeds) to 15.1, 26.3 and 44.7% as the temperature rose to 120, 150 and 195 degrees C respectively. The PDIN and PDIE contents (g/kg of DM) of the raw whole lupin seeds were 224 and 84 respectively; extrusion elevated these values by 10-32% for PDIN and 57-194% for PDIE. The augmentation in the supply of dietary proteins to the postruminal parts as a result of extrusion could rapidly benefit high yielding cows.
When High-Capacity Readers Slow Down and Low-Capacity Readers Speed Up: Working Memory and Locality Effects

We examined the effects of argument-head distance in SVO and SOV languages (Spanish and German), while taking into account readers' working memory capacity and controlling for expectation (Levy, 2008) and other factors. We predicted only locality effects, that is, a slowdown produced by increased dependency distance (Gibson, 2000; Lewis and Vasishth, 2005). Furthermore, we expected stronger locality effects for readers with low working memory capacity. Contrary to our predictions, low-capacity readers showed faster reading with increased distance, while high-capacity readers showed locality effects. We suggest that while the locality effects are compatible with memory-based explanations, the speedup of low-capacity readers can be explained by an increased probability of retrieval failure. We present a computational model based on ACT-R built under the previous assumptions, which is able to give a qualitative account for the present data and can be tested in future research. Our results suggest that in some cases, interpreting longer RTs as indexing increased processing difficulty and shorter RTs as facilitation may be too simplistic: The same increase in processing difficulty may lead to slowdowns in high-capacity readers and speedups in low-capacity ones. Ignoring individual level capacity differences when investigating locality effects may lead to misleading conclusions.
Conséquence de l'utilisation des nouvelles technologies de l'information et de la communication pendant la conduite automobile : rapport final COUNTIC

L'objectif principal de cette recherche est de mettre au point des methodes d'evaluation des effets distracteurs de diverses activites de communication vocale sur l'activite de conduite. Ces effets peuvent etre evalues a plusieurs niveaux : - degradation du traitement de l'information routiere - analyse des performances resultantes - modifications de la charge mentale liee a l'adjonction d'une tâche supplementaire Au final, ceci va permettre de disposer d'echelles d'evaluation de ces effets dont la variation depend de l'exigence en attention de la tâche ajoutee de communication.
On "Technomethodology": Foundational Relationships Between Ethnomethodology and System Design

Over the past 10 years, the use of sociological methods and sociological reasoning have become more prominent in the analysis and design of interactive systems. For a variety of reasons, one form of sociological inquiry-ethnomethodology-has become something of a favored approach. Our goal in this article is to investigate the consequences of approaching system design from the ethnomethodological perspective. In particular, we are concerned with how ethnomethodology can take a foundational place in the very notion of system design, rather than simply being employed as a resource in aspects of the process, such as requirements elicitation and specification. We begin by outlining the basic elements of ethnomethodology and discussing the place that it has come to occupy in computer-supported cooperative work and, increasingly, in human-computer interaction. We discuss current approaches to the use of ethnomethodology in systems design, and we point to the contrast between the use of ethnomethodology for critique and for design. Currently, understandings of how to use ethnomethodology as a primary aspect of system design are lacking. We outline a new approach and present an extended example of its use. This approach takes as its starting point a relationship between ethnomethodology and system design that is a foundational, theoretical matter rather than simply one of design practice and process. From this foundation, we believe, emerges a new model of interaction with computer systems, which is based on ethnomethodological perspectives on everyday human social action.
Finding Weather Photos: Community-Supervised Methods for Editorial Curation of Online Sources

There are many cues that can be used to curate media from social networking websites. Beyond metadata, group behavior provide a strong community-based signal for surfacing images, which we show in a user-defined curatorial task. In a departure from mirco-task crowdwork, we observe that the curation inherent in online photo communities guides the discoverability and consumption of the media, which in turn provides a strong signal that can be used in new editorial tasks in a community-supervised manner. We use this approach in tandem with other more conventional multimedia methods (i.e.\ computer vision and contextual metadata) to form a broad multimodal approach to retrieval and recommendation. We present a large-scale system implementation on a real-world curative task for weather images on a web-scale dataset. Finally, we conduct an evaluation of this system using professional editors and find substantial improvements in editorial efficiency.
Epipolar constraint from 2D affine lines, and its application in face image rendering

This paper has two parts. In the first part of the paper, we note the property that under the para perspective camera projection model of a camera, the set of 2D images produced by a 3D point can be optimally represented by two lines in the affine space (α−β space). The slope of these two lines are same, and we observe that this constraint is exactly the same as the epipolar line constraint. Using this constraint, the equation of the epipolar line can be derived. In the second part of the paper, we use the “same slope” property of the lines in the α−β space to derive the affine structure of the human face. The input to the algorithm is not limited to an image sequence of a human head under rigid motion. It can be snapshots of the human face taken by the same or different cameras, over different periods of time. Since the depth variation of the human face is not very large, we use the para perspective camera projection model. Using this property, we reformulate the (human) face structure reconstruction problem in terms of the much familiar multiple baseline stereo matching problem. Apart from the face modeling aspect, we also show how we use the results for reprojecting human faces in identification tasks. key words: face image rendering, reprojection, stereo, epipolar geometry
A Case for Mvps: Mixed-precision Vector Processors

Mixed-precision computation presents opportunities for pro-grammable accelerators to improve performance and energy efficiency while retaining application flexibility. We augment Hwacha, a decoupled vector-fetch data-parallel accelerator, to support dynamic configuration of architectural register widths and operations on packed data. We discuss the implications on the programming model and the microarchitectural features for maximizing register file utilization and datapath paral-lelism. A complete VLSI implementation quantifies the impact on area, performance, and energy consumption.