Abstract: A fast adaptive Tomlinson Harashima (T-H) precoder structure is presented for indoor wireless communications, where the channel may vary due to rotation and small movement of the mobile terminal. A frequency-selective slow fading channel which is time-invariant over a frame is assumed. In this adaptive T-H precoder, feedback coefficients are updated at the end of every uplink frame by using system identification technique for channel estimation in contrary with the conventional T-H precoding concept where the channel is estimated during the starting of the uplink frame via Wiener solution. In conventional T-H precoder it is assumed the channel is time-invariant in both uplink and downlink frames. However assuming the channel is time-invariant over only one frame instead of two, the proposed adaptive T-H precoder yields better performance than conventional T-H precoder if the channel is varied in uplink after receiving the training sequence.
Abstract: A multilayer self organizing neural neural network
(MLSONN) architecture for binary object extraction, guided by a beta
activation function and characterized by backpropagation of errors
estimated from the linear indices of fuzziness of the network output
states, is discussed. Since the MLSONN architecture is designed to
operate in a single point fixed/uniform thresholding scenario, it does
not take into cognizance the heterogeneity of image information in
the extraction process. The performance of the MLSONN architecture
with representative values of the threshold parameters of the beta
activation function employed is also studied. A three layer bidirectional
self organizing neural network (BDSONN) architecture
comprising fully connected neurons, for the extraction of objects from
a noisy background and capable of incorporating the underlying image
context heterogeneity through variable and adaptive thresholding,
is proposed in this article. The input layer of the network architecture
represents the fuzzy membership information of the image scene to
be extracted. The second layer (the intermediate layer) and the final
layer (the output layer) of the network architecture deal with the self
supervised object extraction task by bi-directional propagation of the
network states. Each layer except the output layer is connected to the
next layer following a neighborhood based topology. The output layer
neurons are in turn, connected to the intermediate layer following
similar topology, thus forming a counter-propagating architecture
with the intermediate layer. The novelty of the proposed architecture
is that the assignment/updating of the inter-layer connection weights
are done using the relative fuzzy membership values at the constituent
neurons in the different network layers. Another interesting feature
of the network lies in the fact that the processing capabilities of
the intermediate and the output layer neurons are guided by a beta
activation function, which uses image context sensitive adaptive
thresholding arising out of the fuzzy cardinality estimates of the
different network neighborhood fuzzy subsets, rather than resorting to
fixed and single point thresholding. An application of the proposed
architecture for object extraction is demonstrated using a synthetic
and a real life image. The extraction efficiency of the proposed
network architecture is evaluated by a proposed system transfer index
characteristic of the network.
Abstract: Multimedia security is an incredibly significant area of concern. The paper aims to discuss a robust image watermarking scheme, which can withstand geometric attacks. The source image is initially moment normalized in order to make it withstand geometric attacks. The moment normalized image is wavelet transformed. The first level wavelet transformed image is segmented into blocks if size 8x8. The product of mean and standard and standard deviation of each block is computed. The second level wavelet transformed image is divided into 8x8 blocks. The product of block mean and the standard deviation are computed. The difference between products in the two levels forms the watermark. The watermark is inserted by modulating the coefficients of the mid frequencies. The modulated image is inverse wavelet transformed and inverse moment normalized to generate the watermarked image. The watermarked image is now ready for transmission. The proposed scheme can be used to validate identification cards and financial instruments. The performance of this scheme has been evaluated using a set of parameters. Experimental results show the effectiveness of this scheme.
Abstract: The aim of our research was to evaluate the effects of
physical exercise on lipid profile and anthropometric characteristics
in young subjects, diagnosed with metabolic syndrome (MS). The
study has been developed during 28 weeks on 20 young obese
patients which have undertaken an intermittent submaximal exercise
program. After 28 weeks of physical activity, the results show
significant effects on anthropometric characteristics and serum lipid
profile of research subjects. Additionally, the results of this study
confirms the major correlation between the variations of
intraabdominal adiposity, determined ultrasonographycally,
and the changes of serum lipid concentrations, a better
correlation than it is used abdominal circumference or body
weight index.
Abstract: This paper reviews the greenhouse gas emissions of prefabrication elements for residential development in Hong Kong. Prefabrication becomes a common practice in residential development in Hong Kong and is considered as a green approach. In Hong Kong, prefabrication took place at factories in Pearl River Delta. Although prefabrication reduces construction wastage, it might generate more greenhouse gas emission from transportation and manufacturing processes. This study attempts to measure the “cradle to site" greenhouse gas emission from prefabrication elements for a public housing development in Kai Tak area. The findings could help further reduction of greenhouse gas emissions through process improvement.
Abstract: The Norwegian Military Academy (Army) has been
using a tactical simulator for the last two years. During this time
there has been some discussion concerning how to use the simulator
most efficiently and what type of learning one achieves by using the
simulator. The problem that is addressed in this paper is how
simulators can be used as a learning resource for students concerned
with developing their military profession. The aim of this article is to
create a wider consciousness regarding the use of a simulator while
educating officers in a military profession. The article discusses the
use of simulators from two different perspectives. The first
perspective deals with using the simulator as a computer game, and
the second perspective looks at the simulator as a socio-cultural
artefact. Furthermore the article discusses four different ways the
simulator can be looked upon as a useful learning resource when
educating students of a military profession.
Abstract: This study deals with a multi-criteria optimization
problem which has been transformed into a single objective
optimization problem using Response Surface Methodology (RSM),
Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Grey Relational Analyses
(GRA) approach. Grey-RSM and Grey-ANN are hybrid techniques
which can be used for solving multi-criteria optimization problem.
There have been two main purposes of this research as follows.
1. To determine optimum and robust fiber dyeing process
conditions by using RSM and ANN based on GRA,
2. To obtain the best suitable model by comparing models
developed by different methodologies.
The design variables for fiber dyeing process in textile are
temperature, time, softener, anti-static, material quantity, pH,
retarder, and dispergator. The quality characteristics to be evaluated
are nominal color consistency of fiber, maximum strength of fiber,
minimum color of dyeing solution. GRA-RSM with exact level
value, GRA-RSM with interval level value and GRA-ANN models
were compared based on GRA output value and MSE (Mean Square
Error) performance measurement of outputs with each other. As a
result, GRA-ANN with interval value model seems to be suitable
reducing the variation of dyeing process for GRA output value of the
model.
Abstract: In a transcutanious inductive coupling of a biomedical
implant, a new formula is given for the study of the Radio Frequency
power attenuation by the biological tissue. The loss of the signal
power is related to its interaction with the biological tissue and the
composition of this one. A confrontation with the practical
measurements done with a synthetic muscle into a Faraday cage,
allowed a checking of the obtained theoretical results. The
supply/data transfer systems used in the case of biomedical implants,
can be well dimensioned by taking in account this type of power
attenuation.
Abstract: Ambient Intelligence (AmI) environments bring
significant potential to exploit sophisticated computer technology in
everyday life. In particular, the educational domain could be
significantly enhanced through AmI, as personalized and adapted
learning could be transformed from paper concepts and prototypes to
real-life scenarios. In this paper, an integrated framework is
presented, named ClassMATE, supporting ubiquitous computing and
communication in a school classroom. The main objective of
ClassMATE is to enable pervasive interaction and context aware
education in the technologically augmented classroom of the future.
Abstract: As German companies roll out their standardized
production systems to offshore manufacturing plants, they face the
challenge of implementing them in different cultural environments.
Studies show that the local adaptation is one of the key factors for a
successful implementation. Thus the question arises of where the line
between standardization and adaptation can be drawn. To answer
this question the influence of culture on production systems is
analysed in this paper. The culturally contingent components of
production systems are identified. Also the contingency factors are
classified according to their impact on the necessary adaptation
changes and implementation effort. Culturally specific decision
making, coordination, communication and motivation patterns
require one-time changes in organizational and process design. The
attitude towards rules requires more intense coaching and controlling.
Lastly a framework is developed to depict standardization and
adaption needs when transplanting production systems into different
cultural environments.
Abstract: It has been proven that early establishment of
microbial flora in digestive tract of ruminants, has a beneficial effect
on their health condition and productivity. A probiotic compound,
made from five bacteria isolated from adult bovine cattle, was dosed
to 15 Holstein newborn calves in order to measure its capacity of
improving body weight gain and reduce diarrhea incidence. The test
was performed in the municipality of Cajicá (Colombia), at 2580
m.a.s.l., throughout rainy season, with environmental temperature
that oscillated between 4 to 25 °C. Five calves were allotted to
control (no addition of probiotic). Treatments 1, and 2 (5 calves per
group) received 10 ml Probiotic mix 1 and 2, respectively. Probiotic
mixes 1 and 2 where similar in microbial composition but different in
production process. Probiotics were added to the morning milk and
dosed on a daily basis by a month and then on a weekly basis for
three additional months. Diarrhea incidence was measured by
observance of number of animals affected in each group; each animal
was weighed up on a daily basis for obtaining weight gain and rumen
fluid samples were extracted with oro-esophageal catheter for
determining level of fiber and grain consumption.
Abstract: This paper presents a synthetic jet air blower actuated
by PZT for air blowing for air-breathing micro PEM fuel cell. The
several factors to affect the performance of air-breathing PEM fuel cell
such as air flow rate, opening ratio and cathode open type in the
cathode side were studied. Especially, an air flow rate is critical
condition to improve its performance. In this paper, we developed a
synthetic jet air blower to supply a high stoichiometric air flow. The
synthetic jet mechanism is a zero mass flux device that converts
electrical energy into the momentum. The synthetic jet actuation is
usually generated by a traditional PZT actuator, which consists of a
small cylindrical cavity, in/outlet channel and PZT diaphragms. The
flow rate of the fabricated synthetic jet air blower was 400cc/min at
550Hz and its power consumption was very low under 0.3W. The
proposed air-breathing PEM fuel cell which installed synthetic jet air
blower was higher performance and stability during continuous
operation than the air-breathing fuel cell without auxiliary device to
supply the air. The results showed that the maximum power density
was 188mW/cm2 at 400mA/cm2. This maximum power density and
durability were improved more than 40% and 20%, respectively.
Abstract: Multirate multimedia delivery applications in multihop Wireless Mesh Network (WMN) are data redundant and delay-sensitive, which brings a lot of challenges for designing efficient transmission systems. In this paper, we propose a new cross layer resource allocation scheme to minimize the receiver side distortion within the delay bound requirements, by exploring application layer Position and Value (P-V) diversity as well as the multihop Effective Capacity (EC). We specifically consider image transmission optimization here. First of all, the maximum supportable source traffic rate is identified by exploring the multihop Effective Capacity (EC) model. Furthermore, the optimal source coding rate is selected according to the P-V diversity of multirate media streaming, which significantly increases the decoded media quality. Simulation results show the proposed approach improved media quality significantly compared with traditional approaches under the same QoS requirements.
Abstract: This paper explores the implementation of adaptive
coding and modulation schemes for Multiple-Input Multiple-Output
Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (MIMO-OFDM) feedback
systems. Adaptive coding and modulation enables robust and
spectrally-efficient transmission over time-varying channels. The basic
premise is to estimate the channel at the receiver and feed this estimate
back to the transmitter, so that the transmission scheme can be
adapted relative to the channel characteristics. Two types of codebook
based channel feedback techniques are used in this work. The longterm
and short-term CSI at the transmitter is used for efficient channel
utilization. OFDM is a powerful technique employed in communication
systems suffering from frequency selectivity. Combined with
multiple antennas at the transmitter and receiver, OFDM proves to be
robust against delay spread. Moreover, it leads to significant data rates
with improved bit error performance over links having only a single
antenna at both the transmitter and receiver. The coded modulation
increases the effective transmit power relative to uncoded variablerate
variable-power MQAM performance for MIMO-OFDM feedback
system. Hence proposed arrangement becomes an attractive approach
to achieve enhanced spectral efficiency and improved error rate
performance for next generation high speed wireless communication
systems.
Abstract: Science parks are often established to drive regional
economic growth, especially in countries with emerging economies.
However, mixed findings regarding the performances of science park
firms are found in the literature. This study tries to explain these
mixed findings by taking a relational approach and exploring
(un)intended knowledge transfers between new technology-based
firms (NTBFs) in the emerging South African economy. Moreover,
the innovation outcomes of these NTBFs are examined by using a
multi-dimensional construct. Results show that science park location
plays a significant role in explaining innovative sales, but is
insignificant when a different indicator of innovation outcomes is
used. Furthermore, only for innovations that are new to the firms,
both science park location and intended knowledge transfer via
informal business relationships have a positive impact; whereas
social relationships have a negative impact.
Abstract: Contrary to negative emotion regulation, coping with
positive moods have received less attention in adolescent adjustment.
However, some research has found that everyone is different on
dealing with their positive emotions, which affects their adaptation
and well-being. The purpose of the present study was to investigate
the relationship between positive emotions dampening and
internalizing behavior problems of adolescent in Taiwan. A survey
was conducted and 208 students (12 to14 years old) completed the
strengths and difficulties questionnaire (SDQ), the Affect Intensity
Measure, and the positive emotions dampening scale. Analysis
methods such as descriptive statistics, t-test, Pearson correlations and
multiple regression were adapted. The results were as follows:
Emotionality and internalizing problem behavior have significant
gender differences. Compared to boys, girls have a higher score on
negative emotionality and are at a higher risk for internalizing
symptoms. However, there are no gender differences on positive
emotion dampening. Additionally, in the circumstance that negative
emotionality acted as the control variable, positive emotion
dampening strategy was (positive) related to internalizing behavior
problems. Given the results of this study, it is suggested that coaching
deconstructive positive emotion strategies is to assist adolescents
with internalizing behavior problems is encouraged.
Abstract: Mobile Learning (M-Learning) is a new technology
which is to enhance current learning practices and activities for all
people especially students and academic practitioners UTP is
currently, implemented two types of learning styles which are
conventional and electronic learning. In order to improve current
learning approaches, it is necessary for UTP to implement m-learning
in UTP. This paper presents a study on the students- perceptions on
mobile utilization in the learning practices in UTP. Besides, this
paper also presents a survey that was conducted among 82 students
from System Analysis and Design (SAD) course in UTP. The survey
includes basic information of mobile devices that have been used by
the students, opinions on current learning practices and also the
opinions regarding the m-learning implementation in the current
learning practices especially in SAD course. Based on the results of
the survey, majority of the students are using the mobile devices that
can support m-learning environment. Other than that, students also
agreed that current learning practices are ineffective and they believe
that m-learning utilization can improve the effectiveness of current
learning practices.
Abstract: Since IEC61850 substation communication standard represents the trend to develop new generations of Substation Automation System (SAS), many IED manufacturers pursue this technique and apply for KEMA. In order to put on the market to meet customer demand as fast as possible, manufacturers often apply their products only for basic environment standard certification but claim to conform to IEC61850 certification. Since verification institutes generally perform verification tests only on specific IEDs of the manufacturers, the interoperability between all certified IEDs cannot be guaranteed. Therefore the interoperability between IEDs from different manufacturers needs to be tested. Based upon the above reasons, this study applies the definitions of the information models, communication service, GOOSE functionality and Substation Configuration Language (SCL) of the IEC61850 to build the concept of communication protocols, and build the test environment. The procedures of the test of the data collection and exchange of the P2P communication mode and Client / Server communication mode in IEC61850 are outlined as follows. First, test the IED GOOSE messages communication capability from different manufacturers. Second, collect IED data from each IED with SCADA system and use HMI to display the SCADA platform. Finally, problems generally encountered in the test procedure are summarized.
Abstract: A number of previous studies were rarely considered
the effects of transient non-uniform balloon expansion on evaluation
of the properties and behaviors of stents during stent expansion, nor
did they determine parameters to maximize the performances driven
by mechanical characteristics. Therefore, in order to fully understand
the mechanical characteristics and behaviors of stent, it is necessary to
consider a realistic modeling of transient non-uniform balloon-stent
expansion. The aim of the study is to propose design parameters
capable of improving the ability of vascular stent through a
comparative study of seven commercial stents using finite element
analyses of a realistic transient non-uniform balloon-stent expansion
process. In this study, seven representative commercialized stents were
evaluated by finite element (FE) analysis in terms of the criteria based
on the itemized list of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and
European Standards (prEN). The results indicate that using stents
composed of opened unit cells connected by bend-shaped link
structures and controlling the geometrical and morphological features
of the unit cell strut or the link structure at the distal ends of stent may
improve mechanical characteristics of stent. This study provides a
better method at the realistic transient non-uniform balloon-stent
expansion by investigating the characteristics, behaviors, and
parameters capable of improving the ability of vascular stent.
Abstract: Bubble columns have a variety of applications in
absorption, bio-reactions, catalytic slurry reactions, and coal
liquefaction; because they are simple to operate, provide good heat
and mass transfer, having less operational cost. The use of
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for bubble column becomes
important, since it can describe the fluid hydrodynamics on both local
and global scale. Euler- Euler two-phase fluid model has been used to
simulate two-phase (air and water) transient up-flow in bubble
column (15cm diameter) using FLUENT6.3. These simulations and
experiments were operated over a range of superficial gas velocities
in the bubbly flow and churn turbulent regime (1 to16 cm/s) at
ambient conditions. Liquid velocity was varied from 0 to 16cm/s. The
turbulence in the liquid phase is described using the standard k-ε
model. The interactions between the two phases are described
through drag coefficient formulations (Schiller Neumann). The
objectives are to validate CFD simulations with experimental data,
and to obtain grid-independent numerical solutions. Quantitatively
good agreements are obtained between experimental data for hold-up
and simulation values. Axial liquid velocity profiles and gas holdup
profiles were also obtained for the simulation.