Abstract: The primary objective of this research is to improve the flexural capacity of FRP strengthened RC Beam structures with Aluminum and Titanium laminates. FRP rupture of flexural strengthened RC beams using FRP plates generally occurs at the interface between FRP plate and the beam. Therefore, in order to prevent brittle rupture and improve the ductility of the system, this research was performed by using Aluminum and Titanium materials between the two different structural systems. The research also aims to provide various strengthening/retrofitting methods for RC beam structures and to conduct a preliminary analysis of the demands on the structural systems. This was achieved by estimation using the experimental data from this research to identify a flexural capacity for the systems. Ultimately, the preliminary analysis of current study showed that the flexural capacity and system demand ductility was significantly improved by the systems inserted with Aluminum and Titanium anchor plates. Further verification of the experimental research is currently on its way to develop a new or reliable design guideline to retrofit/strengthen the concrete-FRP structural system can be evaluated.
Abstract: Region covariance (RC) descriptor is an effective
and efficient feature for visual tracking. Current RC-based tracking
algorithms use the whole RC matrix to track the target in video
directly. However, there exist some issues for these whole RCbased
algorithms. If some features are contaminated, the whole RC
will become unreliable, which results in lost object-tracking. In
addition, if some features are very discriminative to the
background, other features are still processed and thus reduce the
efficiency. In this paper a new robust tracking method is proposed,
in which the whole RC matrix is decomposed into several low rank
matrices. Those matrices are dynamically chosen and processed so
as to achieve a good tradeoff between discriminability and
complexity. Experimental results have shown that our method is
more robust to complex environment changes, especially either
when occlusion happens or when the background is similar to the
target compared to other RC-based methods.
Abstract: The early diagnostic decision making in industrial processes is absolutely necessary to produce high quality final products. It helps to provide early warning for a special event in a process, and finding its assignable cause can be obtained. This work presents a hybrid diagnostic schmes for batch processes. Nonlinear representation of raw process data is combined with classification tree techniques. The nonlinear kernel-based dimension reduction is executed for nonlinear classification decision boundaries for fault classes. In order to enhance diagnosis performance for batch processes, filtering of the data is performed to get rid of the irrelevant information of the process data. For the diagnosis performance of several representation, filtering, and future observation estimation methods, four diagnostic schemes are evaluated. In this work, the performance of the presented diagnosis schemes is demonstrated using batch process data.
Abstract: Steganography, derived from Greek, literally means
“covered writing". It includes a vast array of secret communications
methods that conceal the message-s very existence. These methods
include invisible inks, microdots, character arrangement, digital
signatures, covert channels, and spread spectrum communications.
This paper proposes a new improved version of Least Significant Bit
(LSB) method. The approach proposed is simple for implementation
when compared to Pixel value Differencing (PVD) method and yet
achieves a High embedding capacity and imperceptibility. The
proposed method can also be applied to 24 bit color images and
achieve embedding capacity much higher than PVD.
Abstract: Biogas, a clean renewable energy, is attracting a growing
concern of researchers and professionals in many fields. Based
on the natural and climatic conditions in semi-arid regions of northwestern
China, the present study introduces a specifically-designed
family-size biogas plant (with a digester of 10m3) with manure
and urine of animals and humanity as raw materials. The biogas
plant is applicable to areas with altitudes of more than 2000 meters
in northwestern China. In addition to the installation cost, a little
operational expenditure, structure, characteristics, benefits of this
small-scale biogas plant, this article introduces a wide range of
specific popularization methods such as training, financial support,
guided tour to the biogas plant, community-based group study and
delivery of operational manuals. The feasibility of the biogas plant is
explored on the basis of the availability of the raw materials. Simple
operations contained in the current work increase the possibility of
the wide use of this small-scale biogas plant in similar regions of the
world.
Abstract: Due to the fact that in the new century customers tend
to express globally increasing demands, networks of interconnected
businesses have been established in societies and the management of
such networks seems to be a major key through gaining competitive
advantages. Supply chain management encompasses such managerial
activities. Within a supply chain, a critical role is played by quality.
QFD is a widely-utilized tool which serves the purpose of not only
bringing quality to the ultimate provision of products or service
packages required by the end customer or the retailer, but it can also
initiate us into a satisfactory relationship with our initial customer;
that is the wholesaler. However, the wholesalers- cooperation is
considerably based on the capabilities that are heavily dependent on
their locations and existing circumstances. Therefore, it is undeniable
that for all companies each wholesaler possesses a specific
importance ratio which can heavily influence the figures calculated in
the House of Quality in QFD. Moreover, due to the competitiveness
of the marketplace today, it-s been widely recognized that
consumers- expression of demands has been highly volatile in
periods of production. Apparently, such instability and proneness to
change has been very tangibly noticed and taking it into account
during the analysis of HOQ is widely influential and doubtlessly
required. For a more reliable outcome in such matters, this article
demonstrates the application viability of Analytic Network Process
for considering the wholesalers- reputation and simultaneously
introduces a mortality coefficient for the reliability and stability of
the consumers- expressed demands in course of time. Following to
this, the paper provides further elaboration on the relevant
contributory factors and approaches through the calculation of such
coefficients. In the end, the article concludes that an empirical
application is needed to achieve broader validity.
Abstract: This paper describes the results of an extensive study
and comparison of popular hash functions SHA-1, SHA-256,
RIPEMD-160 and RIPEMD-320 with JERIM-320, a 320-bit hash
function. The compression functions of hash functions like SHA-1
and SHA-256 are designed using serial successive iteration whereas
those like RIPEMD-160 and RIPEMD-320 are designed using two
parallel lines of message processing. JERIM-320 uses four parallel
lines of message processing resulting in higher level of security than
other hash functions at comparable speed and memory requirement.
The performance evaluation of these methods has been done by using
practical implementation and also by using step computation
methods. JERIM-320 proves to be secure and ensures the integrity of
messages at a higher degree. The focus of this work is to establish
JERIM-320 as an alternative of the present day hash functions for the
fast growing internet applications.
Abstract: The present study focuses on methods allowing a convenient and quick calculation of the SIFs in order to predict the static adhesive strength of bonded joints. A new SIF calculation method is proposed, based on the stresses obtained from a FE model at a reference point located in the adhesive layer at equal distance of the free-edge and of the two interfaces. It is shown that, even limiting ourselves to the two main modes, i.e. the opening and the shearing modes, and using the values of the stresses resulting from a low detailed FE model, an efficient calculation of the peeling stress at adhesive-substrate corners can be obtained by this way. The proposed method is interesting in that it can be the basis of a prediction tool that will allow the designer to quickly evaluate the SIFs characterizing a particular application without developing a detailed analysis.
Abstract: Autofluorescence (AF) bronchoscopy is an
established method to detect dysplasia and carcinoma in situ (CIS).
For this reason the “Sotiria" Hospital uses the Karl Storz D-light
system. However, in early tumor stages the visualization is not that
obvious. With the help of a PC, we analyzed the color images we
captured by developing certain tools in Matlab®. We used statistical
methods based on texture analysis, signal processing methods based
on Gabor models and conversion algorithms between devicedependent
color spaces. Our belief is that we reduced the error made
by the naked eye. The tools we implemented improve the quality of
patients' life.
Abstract: This paper discusses the cued speech recognition
methods in videoconference. Cued speech is a specific gesture
language that is used for communication between deaf people. We
define the criteria for sentence intelligibility according to answers of
testing subjects (deaf people). In our tests we use 30 sample videos
coded by H.264 codec with various bit-rates and various speed of
cued speech. Additionally, we define the criteria for consonant sign
recognizability in single-handed finger alphabet (dactyl) analogically
to acoustics. We use another 12 sample videos coded by H.264 codec
with various bit-rates in four different video formats. To interpret the
results we apply the standard scale for subjective video quality
evaluation and the percentual evaluation of intelligibility as in
acoustics. From the results we construct the minimum coded bit-rate
recommendations for every spatial resolution.
Abstract: A therapeutic success is the aim of any therapeutic
intervention, but a therapeutic failure is the other side of the same
coin. The purpose of this study is to present the activity of a personal
development group, composed of 14 participants (psychologists,
doctors and a priest) registered for a 2 days course of integrative
psychotherapy. The objectives of this study are centred on: the
management of the personal development group breaking moment
realized by the therapist/trainer; the analysis of the trainer’s personal
situation and of some group participants and the brief presentation of
the main work methods applied on participants in the repairing of the
therapeutic relation and in the counter transfer management. The
therapist’s orientation is an integrative one and the demarche realized
includes T.A. techniques, role play, Gestalt and family systemic
psychotherapy. The conclusions obtained represent landmarks for the
future activity within that group and strengthen the therapeutic
relation with the group.
Abstract: According to development of communications and
web-based technologies in recent years, e-Learning has became very
important for everyone and is seen as one of most dynamic teaching
methods.
Grid computing is a pattern for increasing of computing power
and storage capacity of a system and is based on hardware and
software resources in a network with common purpose. In this article
we study grid architecture and describe its different layers. In this
way, we will analyze grid layered architecture. Then we will
introduce a new suitable architecture for e-Learning which is based
on grid network, and for this reason we call it Grid Learning
Architecture. Various sections and layers of suggested architecture
will be analyzed; especially grid middleware layer that has key role.
This layer is heart of grid learning architecture and, in fact,
regardless of this layer, e-Learning based on grid architecture will
not be feasible.
Abstract: Frequent machine breakdowns, low plant availability and increased overtime are a great threat to a manufacturing plant as they increase operating costs of an industry. The main aim of this study was to improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) at a manufacturing company through the implementation of innovative maintenance strategies. A case study approach was used. The paper focuses on improving the maintenance in a manufacturing set up using an innovative maintenance regime mix to improve overall equipment effectiveness. Interviews, reviewing documentation and historical records, direct and participatory observation were used as data collection methods during the research. Usually production is based on the total kilowatt of motors produced per day. The target kilowatt at 91% availability is 75 Kilowatts a day. Reduced demand and lack of raw materials particularly imported items are adversely affecting the manufacturing operations. The company had to reset its targets from the usual figure of 250 Kilowatt per day to mere 75 per day due to lower availability of machines as result of breakdowns as well as lack of raw materials. The price reductions and uncertainties as well as general machine breakdowns further lowered production. Some recommendations were given. For instance, employee empowerment in the company will enhance responsibility and authority to improve and totally eliminate the six big losses. If the maintenance department is to realise its proper function in a progressive, innovative industrial society, then its personnel must be continuously trained to meet current needs as well as future requirements. To make the maintenance planning system effective, it is essential to keep track of all the corrective maintenance jobs and preventive maintenance inspections. For large processing plants these cannot be handled manually. It was therefore recommended that the company implement (Computerised Maintenance Management System) CMMS.
Abstract: In this paper we study some numerical methods to solve a model one-dimensional convection–diffusion equation. The semi-discretisation of the space variable results into a system of ordinary differential equations and the solution of the latter involves the evaluation of a matrix exponent. Since the calculation of this term is computationally expensive, we study some methods based on Krylov subspace and on Restrictive Taylor series approximation respectively. We also consider the Chebyshev Pseudospectral collocation method to do the spatial discretisation and we present the numerical solution obtained by these methods.
Abstract: Optimal cultural site selection is one of the ways that
can lead to the promotion of citizenship culture in addition to
ensuring the health and leisure of city residents. This study examines
the social and cultural needs of the community and optimal cultural
site allocation and after identifying the problems and shortcomings,
provides a suitable model for finding the best location for these
centers where there is the greatest impact on the promotion of
citizenship culture. On the other hand, non-scientific methods cause
irreversible impacts to the urban environment and citizens. But
modern efficient methods can reduce these impacts. One of these
methods is using geographical information systems (GIS). In this
study, Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method was used to
locate the optimal cultural site. In AHP, three principles
(decomposition), (comparative analysis), and (combining
preferences) are used. The objectives of this research include
providing optimal contexts for passing time and performing cultural
activities by Shiraz residents and also proposing construction of some
cultural sites in different areas of the city. The results of this study
show the correct positioning of cultural sites based on social needs of
citizens. Thus, considering the population parameters and radii
access, GIS and AHP model for locating cultural centers can meet
social needs of citizens.
Abstract: Eigenvector methods are gaining increasing acceptance in the area of spectrum estimation. This paper presents a successful attempt at testing and evaluating the performance of two of the most popular types of subspace techniques in determining the parameters of multiexponential signals with real decay constants buried in noise. In particular, MUSIC (Multiple Signal Classification) and minimum-norm techniques are examined. It is shown that these methods perform almost equally well on multiexponential signals with MUSIC displaying better defined peaks.
Abstract: Automatic determination of blood in less bright or
noisy capsule endoscopic images is difficult due to low S/N ratio.
Especially it may not be accurate to analyze these images due to the
influence of external disturbance. Therefore, we proposed detection
methods that are not dependent only on color bands. In locating
bleeding regions, the identification of object outlines in the frame and
features of their local colors were taken into consideration. The results
showed that the capability of detecting bleeding was much improved.
Abstract: Medical Decision Support Systems (MDSSs) are sophisticated, intelligent systems that can provide inference due to lack of information and uncertainty. In such systems, to model the uncertainty various soft computing methods such as Bayesian networks, rough sets, artificial neural networks, fuzzy logic, inductive logic programming and genetic algorithms and hybrid methods that formed from the combination of the few mentioned methods are used. In this study, symptom-disease relationships are presented by a framework which is modeled with a formal concept analysis and theory, as diseases, objects and attributes of symptoms. After a concept lattice is formed, Bayes theorem can be used to determine the relationships between attributes and objects. A discernibility relation that forms the base of the rough sets can be applied to attribute data sets in order to reduce attributes and decrease the complexity of computation.
Abstract: In this paper we consider the problem of distributed adaptive estimation in wireless sensor networks for two different observation noise conditions. In the first case, we assume that there are some sensors with high observation noise variance (noisy sensors) in the network. In the second case, different variance for observation noise is assumed among the sensors which is more close to real scenario. In both cases, an initial estimate of each sensor-s observation noise is obtained. For the first case, we show that when there are such sensors in the network, the performance of conventional distributed adaptive estimation algorithms such as incremental distributed least mean square (IDLMS) algorithm drastically decreases. In addition, detecting and ignoring these sensors leads to a better performance in a sense of estimation. In the next step, we propose a simple algorithm to detect theses noisy sensors and modify the IDLMS algorithm to deal with noisy sensors. For the second case, we propose a new algorithm in which the step-size parameter is adjusted for each sensor according to its observation noise variance. As the simulation results show, the proposed methods outperforms the IDLMS algorithm in the same condition.
Abstract: Introduction: Visual performance is an important factor in sport excellence. Visual involvement in a sport varies according to environmental demands associated with that sport. These environmental demands are matched by a task specific motor response. The purpose of this study was to determine if sport specific exercises will improve the visual performance of male rugby players, in order to achieve maximal results on the sports field. Materials & Methods: Twenty six adult male rugby players, aged 16-22, were chosen as subjects. In order to evaluate the effect of sport specific exercises on visual skills, a pre-test - post-test experimental group design was adopted for the study. Results: Significant differences (p≤0.05) were seen in the focussing, tracking, vergence, sequencing, eye-hand coordination and visualisation components Discussion & Conclusions: Sport specific exercises improved visual skills in rugby players which may provide them with an advantage over their opponents. This study suggests that these training programs and participation in regular on-line EyeDrills sports vision exercises (www.eyedrills.co.za) aimed at improving the athlete-s visual coordination, concentration, focus, hand-eye co-ordination, anticipation and motor response should be incorpotated in the rugby players exercise regime.