Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
DIGITAL IMAGE PROCESSING OF PLANTS IN TWO WAVE BANDS OF RED AND INFRARED FOR EVALUATION OF GROWTH

In an attempt to extract clear pattern of plant image from the background, two wave bands of red (R; about 670nm) and infrared (I; about 900nm) regions were selected on the basis of spectral characteristics of leaf reflectance and used for taking R and I images in phytotron glass room by a TV camera. These images were digitized for computation and denoted as respective matrixes of M_R and M_I where each matrix element was expressed as reflectance (%). From M_R and M_I, difference in reflectance between R and I bands was given as M_s=[c_ ]=M_I-M_R, where the element, c_ ≦25% was treated as '0', and the element, c_ >25% was treated as '1'. In M_s, the plant image was clearly separated from the background, and the plant growth appeared in increase in the number of digits of '1'. So, sum(P) of the elements of M_s was used as a parameter for evaluation of the growth: The fresh weight was represented reliably by a regression equation on P even when the plants were grown at different air temperatures of 22℃ and 25℃. The temperature effect on the plant growth was observed in increase in the fresh weights calculated from the regression equation in course of time. Thus, digital image processing of plants in red and infrared regions could be used as a tool of nondestructive and on-line measurement for the evaluation of plant growth.
Modeling and position control of a new quad-rotor unmanned aerial vehicle with tilt-wing mechanism

In this work a dynamic model of a new quadrotor aerial vehicle that is equipped with a tilt-wing mechanism is presented. The vehicle has the capabilities of vertical take-off/landing (VTOL) like a helicopter and flying horizontal like an airplane. Dynamic model of the vehicle is derived both for vertical and horizontal flight modes using Newton-Euler formulation. An LQR controller for the vertical flight mode has also been developed and its performance has been tested with several simulations.
Haptic Behavior Evaluation Toolkit for Autonomous Ground Robot Navigation

A significant amount of research has been conducted regarding the technical aspects of haptic feedback; however, the designing of effective haptic feedback behaviors is not yet well understood from a human-robot interaction perspective. Haptic shared control feedback behaviors for semi-autonomous ground mobile robots sometimes make use of control paradigms that do not appropriately map to the navigation or teleoperation tasks. Also, evaluation of haptic behaviors has not been systematic and often only demonstrates feasibility. As a result, it is difficult to compare between various techniques. We have designed a three-part open-source toolkit to facilitate the investigation of haptic feedback behaviors for navigating semi-autonomous ground robots. Our work consists of 1) a simple hardware modification to turn a popular haptic research device (the Phantom Omni) into a 2D joystick, 2) a ROS software stack for writing arbitrary haptic behaviors for our haptic joystick modification, and 3) a generic experimental design that can be used to evaluate different types of haptic feedback behaviors. Finally, we share our toolkit so that we, as a research community, can better understand users’ perceptions and comprehension of haptic behaviors.
Optical properties of long photonic crystal fibre tapers

In this thesis I investigate optical properties of metre - long tapers. Microstructured optical fibre technology has created new opportunities in a broad range of science and technology. In the work presented in this thesis I have combined the microstructured optical fibre technology with a novel tapering facility in order to develop new applications in the field of nonlinear optics. This thesis concerns development of a novel tapering facility, capable of achieving intermediate length (few tens of cm to ~10 m) tapers. In comparison with systems presented to date, the novel system has the advantage of the increased control over the desired taper profile and enables efficient fabrication of intermediate taper lengths of potentially arbitrary profiles. During the fabrication the fibre diameter exhibits significant variations, due to various disturbances. A design of the feedback loop for the enhanced control of the output diameter variation is proposed. The system capabilities have been tested and demonstrated in many different examples. The presented results show that the variation of the fibre diameter is within ~1%, which offers possibilities to use the system in various applications. As an example of the intermediate taper length design and application, parabolic pulse generation was investigated. It represents a very attractive pulse shape, since it can propagate at high peak powers while avoiding wave-breaking effect and have a flat and broad spectrum, which could lead to pulse compression applications. This thesis presents numerical modelling and experimental results (restricted to a set of parameters of fibres available from ’stock’) concerning this phenomena. Supercontinuum generation is an area of research that has been attracting scientific interest over several decades. This thesis shows results of a study of supercontinuum generation in intermediate length tapered microstructured optical fibres. A simulation tool has been developed and the procedure to efficiently determine optimum conditions for improving flatness of the supercontinuum spectra has been proposed. The proposed method concerns a ’standard’ microstructured optical fibre, but generally can be extended to different fibre designs.
Introduction to ultra wideband communication systems, an

The definitive, end-to-end guide to high-performance UWB system designWith the FCC's approval of new ultra wideband standards, UWB is poised to drive breakthroughs in both commercial and military communications. However, UWB system design is radically different from conventional communications system design, and traditional design guides are insufficient-or even misleading. Now, for the first time, there's an authoritative and comprehensive guide to the latest best practices in UWB system design.Authored by leading-edge experts and researchers, Introduction to Ultra Wideband Communication Systems systematically addresses every major issue engineers will face in designing, implementing, testing, and deploying successful systems. The authors cover propagation, antennas, receiver and transmitter implementation, standards and regulations, interference, simulation, modulation and multiple access, networking, applications, and more.Topics include UWB fundamentals: technology, system components, standards/regulations, and the controversies surrounding UWB Never-before-published techniques for addressing propagation, modeling, and channel simulation UWB antenna design-including surprising differences between UWB and narrowband systems Effective transmitter design reflecting UWB's modulation principles Receiver design for impulse UWB systems-including key differences from conventional carrier-based systems In-depth coverage of interference, focusing on "peaceful coexistence" between UWB and narrowband radio systems Practical simulation techniques that avoid unacceptably long simulation times How UWB's physical layer capabilities impact the performance and design of upper layers Real-world UWB applications and case studies of existing systemsThis book is the definitive resource for every professional involved with UWB: RF engineers concerned with UWB's impact on radio design; experienced computer and DSP engineers moving into radio communications; systems engineers who must master UWB radio link design; and technical managers who must clearly understand the challenges they'll face in delivering successful systems.
Dynamic compensation of hard-disk R/W head and head-stack

R/W heads of HDDs are inherently unstable or highly underdamped. Compensations are always necessary for the heads and actuators to function properly under motion control. This article provides the control models of the single-head and the head-stack. Comparison studies of various compensation structures are presented. Resonance issue has been addressed with the corresponding mitigation technique. The design optimization to improve the R/W head performance and stability has been achieved via adaptive tabu search.
Energy Management of a PV-SB HPGS Based on Model Predictive Control

Background Hybrid Power Generation Systems (HPGSs) always introduces the solutions for many problems of the power systems such as; poor power quality and the highly generation costs. Usually, these systems have high opportunity of utilizing the renewable sources, where they are installed so near to the customers. In some times, the customers whom have installed these systems, have the ability to purchase or sell the required or the surplus energy, respectively. Therefore, the concept of the energy management should be implemented in these situations, which means providing energy to the consumers while respecting the demand and optimizing the production cost. Supplying power has become more and more complex in a growing network. Several ways exist to adapt to the steadily increasing energy demand. The energy efficiency of the buildings/generators could be improved, or new electric supply units could be built. However, smarter techniques of managing the grid from the demand side receive an increasing attention by research and industry for a promising economic potential. Methods The proposed HPGS in this paper is the combination of the Photovoltaic (PV) and the Storage Battery (SB). The Demand Response (DR) is the main philosophy for the energy management for PV-SB HPGS, while the Model Predictive Control (MPC) is applied to control the energy from the HPGS to the smart home, which was incorporated with an electrical heater in each room. The DR strategy has also been applied using other control techniques, such as thermostat and Proportional-Integral (PI) controller, for the purpose of comparing between the techniques. Results Simulation results for the three controllers were implemented. A comparison between the results was carried out. to verify the proposed system, which proved the superiority of the MPC. Conclusions A smart method for optimizing the comfort temperature inside the rooms by using a MPC strategy with a PV panel and a battery was proposed. DR allowed benefits on both system operation and market efficiency. MPC evidenced to provide economic benefits with respect to other compared controllers.
의료 영상에 최적화된 딥러닝 모델의 개발

최근, 의료 영상 분야에서 딥러닝은 가장 활발하게 연구되고 있는 기술 중 하나이다. 충분한 데이터와 최신의 딥러닝 알고리즘은 딥러닝 모델의 개발에 중요한 요소이다. 하지만 일반화된 최적의 딥러닝 모델을 개발하기 위해서는 데이터의 양과 최신의 딥러닝 알고리즘 외에도 많은 것을 고려해야 한다. 데이터 수집부터 가공, 전처리, 모델의 학습 및 검증, 경량화까지 모든 과정이 딥러닝 모델의 성능에 영향을 미칠 수 있기 때문이다. 본 종설에서는 의료 영상에 최적화된 딥러닝 모델을 위해 개발 과정 각각에서 고려해야 할 중요한 요소들을 살펴보고자 한다.
DEVELOPMENT OF FRACTURE CRITERION FOR ASPHALT MIXES AT LOW TEMPERATURES

This paper describes the development and verification of a fracture criterion sensitive to the elastic-plastic behavior of asphalt concrete mixes. This method is based on the elastic-plastic fracture mechanics (EPFM) concept that leads to the laboratory determination of the critical strain energy release rate, also called the critical value of J integral, J sub 1c. Also employed was the linear elastic fracture mechanics approach (LEFM), which leads to the determination of critical stress intensity factor, also called fracture toughness, K sub 1c. Asphalt concrete beams 3 in. by 3 in. by 16 in. were tested under three-point bending. Notches 1/16 in. wide and long enough so that the ratio of notch depth to beam depth always remained between 0.5 and 0.7 were sawed at the midpoint of the beams to give a single-edge notch beam geometry. A locally used mix design called ID-2 was employed. Twelve asphalt cements were selected from around the country for making the mixes. Testing was conducted at four temperatures below 60 deg F (16 deg C): -5 deg F (-21 deg C), 10 deg F (-12 deg C), 25 deg F (-4 deg C), and 40 deg F (4.0 deg C). Both EPFM and LEFM approaches were used to analyze the laboratory data. The results were compared with the more routine tests, such as indirect tensile strength for aspahlt mixes, as well as the Fraass brittle point test, T sub PEN1.2, and T sub g from DSC and DMA for asphalt cement. It was found that at low temperatures (below 60 deg F (16 deg C)) the EPFM approach with J sub 1c as a fracture characterization parameter is sensitive to asphalt mix properties. J sub 1c also seems to be related to the routine parameters. LEFM with K sub 1c as a fracture characterization parameter is not sensitive to asphalt grade or source.
Harnessing non-modernity: a case study in artificial life

Artificial Life is a research field which has developed around the use of synthetic artificial systems, mostly robotic and virtual, to investigate the supposed characteristic features of life. The thesis presents a case study of Artificial Life, with the overall objective of understanding some of the cultural, disciplinary and epistemological developments that may be distinctive of research communities who ground their work on a collaborative involvement with non-human simulation models. The study examines the cultural identity of the Artificial Life research community and its knowledgemaking practices, as well as its sustainability strategies into existing institutional contexts. The study aims at being neither an over-localized laboratory micro-study nor an over general macro-study, but tries to situate itself in the mid-range by combining both approaches. It has been conducted through a combination of ethnographical fieldwork and of bibliographical analysis, and places a special focus on the Artificial Life research group at University of Sussex, which has been selected for its centrality in the global Artificial Life landscape.
Effect of steady flight loads on JT9D-7 performance deterioration

Short term engine deterioration occurs in less than 250 flights on a new engine and in the first flights following engine repair; while long term deterioration involves primarily hot section distress and compression system losses which occur at a somewhat slower rate. The causes for short-term deterioration are associated with clearance changes which occur in the flight environment. Analytical techniques utilized to examine the effects of flight loads and engine operating conditions on performance deterioration are presented. The role of gyroscopic, gravitational, and aerodynamic loads are discussed along with the effect of variations in engine build clearances. These analytical results are compared to engine test data along with the correlation between analytically predicted and measured clearances and rub patterns. Conclusions are drawn and important issues are discussed.
Air Force Posture Statement 2008: Department of Air Force Presentation to the House Armed Services Committee, U.S. House of Representatives, Fiscal Year 2009 Air Force Posture Statement

Abstract : This Statement articulates the major elements of our Air Force Posture - our strategy for fulfilling our role in defending the Nation and its interests; our contributions to winning the Global War on Terrorism; our most critical efforts and concerns; and our top priority programs. Three overarching Service priorities serve as the organizing principles for all of our efforts: Winning Today's Fight; Taking Care of Our People; and Preparing for Tomorrow's Challenges. The Air Force's top acquisition priorities specifically begin to address our critical recapitalization and modernization needs the new Tanker (KC-X); the new Combat Search and Rescue Helicopter (CSAR-X); modern space systems to provide capabilities vital to our Joint warfighters; the F-35A Lightning II; and a new Bomber we intend to field by 2018. We will continue our efforts to modernize and protect America's vital air, space, and cyberspace capabilities. We strongly recommend extending the existing C-130J production line. We are also concerned with preserving America's aerospace industrial base. Additionally, we seek relief from restrictions on the retirement of aging, worn-out aircraft which are increasingly unsafe, unreliable, and obsolete. The Air Force is highly engaged in national efforts to assure sustainable energy, and we will continue to push the performance envelope on fuel efficiency and renewable energy technologies. We are committed to the Joint Basing initiative and want to work through the transfer of total obligation authority (TOA) and real property control without impacting command authorities, reducing installation service support, or negatively affecting quality of life. Finally, we will continue our practice of recruiting and retaining the world's highest quality Airmen. We will build upon our successes in achieving Total Force Integration of our Regular, Guard, Reserve, and Civilian Airmen.
Linear systems arising in interior methods for convex optimization: a symmetric formulation with bounded condition number

We provide eigenvalues bounds for a new formulation of the step equations in interior methods for convex quadratic optimization. The matrix of our formulation, named , has bounded condition number, converges to a well-defined limit under strict complementarity, and has the same size as the traditional, ill-conditioned, saddle-point formulation. We evaluate the performance in the context of a Matlab object-oriented implementation of PDCO, an interior-point solver for minimizing a smooth convex function subject to linear constraints. The main benefit of our implementation, named PDCOO, is to separate the logic of the interior-point method from the formulation of the system used to compute a step at each iteration and the method used to solve the system. Thus, PDCOO allows easy addition of a new system formulation and/or solution method for experimentation. Our numerical experiments indicate that the formulation has the same storage requirements as the traditional ill-conditioned saddle-point formulation, and its condition is often more favourable than the unsymmetric block formulation.
Medical image tomography: A statistically tailored neural network approach

xi GENERAL INTRODUCTION 1 Objective 1 Dissertation Organization 1 LITERATURE REVIEW 3 Background of Nuclear Medical Tomography 3 Smgle Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) 4 Artificial Neural Networks 8 Massively Parallel Computmg 10 Neiu'al Network Applications ID Medicine 13 GENERAL DISCUSSION 14 Medical Tomography. 14 Artificial Neural Networks 15 Massively Parallel Processing. 17 NEURAL NETWORK RECONSTRUCTION OF SPECT IMAGES 18 Abstract 18 Introduction . 19 Background: Backpropagation Neiu'al Network 21 Forward propagation . 21 Error backpropagation 24 Mathematical Methods 27
ADAMS' FORMULA REVISED

The author presents a revised form of Adams' formula for determining the expected delay to a pedestrian wishing to cross a traffic stream. The original formula uses the Poisson process as a statistical model for the traffic stream. Real traffic streams, however, have a tendency to form bunches with gaps between the bunches and these features are not modelled by the Poisson process. The derivation of the new average delay formula is given in an appendix. Representative curves relating average delay and traffic flow rate are shown for different distributions of bunches and bunch size. They demonstrate that average delay is sensitive to the bunch gap structure of traffic. Importantly, the new results are sufficiently different from those given by Adams' original formula that a revision of practical traffic warrents involving pedestrian facilities seems desirable. (TRRL)
High-k gate dielectrics for CMOS technology

ISBN 978-3-527-33032-4 A state-of-the-art overview of high-k dielectric materials for advanced field-effect transistors, from both a fundamental and a technological viewpoint, summarizing the latest research results and development solutions. As such, the book clearly discusses the advantages of these materials over conventional materials and also addresses the issues that accompany their integration into existing production technologies. Aimed at academia and industry alike, this monograph combines introductory parts for newcomers to the field as well as advanced sections with directly applicable solutions for experienced researchers and developers in materials science, physics and electrical engineering.
Crystal Structure of AgSCN Coordination Polymers for Sensing of Iron (III) Ions, Nitrobenzene and Photocatalytic Activity Under Ultrasonic Irradiation

Single crystals of AgSCN supramolecular coordination polymer, SCP1 and the nanosized particles of AgSCN, 2, are synthesized by self-assembly and ultrasonic radiation methods, respectively. The structure comprises of the simple AgSCN molecule fabricated by a tetrahedral Ag atom and one thiocyanate group. The SCN ligand connects four Ag atoms via µ3-S and one nitrogen atom. Two silver atoms and two sulfur atoms form rhombic mini-cycle (Ag2S2) motif exhibiting argentophilic interaction. The structure of SCP1 extends three-dimensionally via coordinate bonds creating different fused polygons. The chemical structure and morphology of nanosized 2 are characterized by powder X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and spectroscopic methods. The heterogeneous catalytic and photo-catalytic activity of nanosized 2 exhibit very efficient catalytic activity towards degradation of Acid Blue-92 and Eosin-Y dyes within very short times under UV-light or ultrasonic radiation. The good limit of detection and the high quenching efficiency of SCP1 towards selective quantitative determination of nitrobenzene (NB) and Fe3+ ions support its behavior as an efficient luminescent sensor.
Altered, expanded and distributed embodiment : the three stages of interactive presence

This conceptual chapter outlines three stages in the development of interactive presence, and outlines some possibilities and challenges raised by each, and by their combination. The first stage, presence via altered embodiment, refers to the way technology allows us to experience the world with modified or enhanced senses. The second stage, via expanded embodiment, refers to technology pushing the envelope of the mental body in which one feels present, out beyond the physical body. Finally, distributed embodiment refers to how the sense of being present in the world can be separated from that of ownership of a particular body, through the development of new approaches to deploying the technologies of virtual realization. We suggest that presence is the yardstick of embodiment from an experiential perspective. If you cannot feel presence, you are not embodied in the world.
Investigation into the synthesis and carbon doping of MgB₂for possible bulk superconducting fault current limiters application.

Magnesium Diboride (MgB2) bulk superconductor has been manufactured for use in superconducting fault current limiters (SFCLs) via in situ reaction. SFCLs have proven to be a viable means for limiting surge currents on power lines by dissipating fault energy as the superconductor quenches. As the current limiting behaviour is determined by the normal resistance (Rn), research has been conducted to evaluate an effective means to increase Rn for bulk superconducting MgB2. Other researchers have previously looked into the improvement and optimisation of the critical current, Jc, by carbon doping and other flux pinning techniques. Carbon doping has been confirmed as a means to increase Rn, and was implemented by chemical vapour deposition (CVD) at 600 oC in a tubular furnace apparatus. Intragranular doping was achieved by CVD on the boron precursor powder. In situ manufacturing of MgB2 bulk was performed using the reactive liquid magnesium infiltration technique. Carbon doping provided an adequate increase in Rn, for a small decrease in the critical temperature, Tc.