Abstract: Geographic Profiling has successfully assisted investigations for serial crimes. Considering the multi-cluster feature of serial criminal spots, we propose a Multi-point Centrography model as a natural extension of Single-point Centrography for geographic profiling. K-means clustering is first performed on the data samples and then Single-point Centrography is adopted to derive a probability distribution on each cluster. Finally, a weighted combinations of each distribution is formed to make next-crime spot prediction. Experimental study on real cases demonstrates the effectiveness of our proposed model.
Abstract: This paper reports on the results of experimental investigations on the performance of a jet pump operated under selected primary flows to optimize the related parameters. For this purpose a two-phase flow jet pump was used employing various profiles of nozzles as the primary device which was designed, fabricated and used along with the combination of mixing tube and diffuser. The profiles employed were circular, conical, and elliptical. The diameter of the nozzle used was 4 mm. The area ratio of the jet pump was 0.16. The test facility created for this purpose was an open loop continuous circulation system. Performance of the jet pump was obtained as iso-efficiency curves on characteristic curves drawn for various water flow rates. To perform the suction capability, evacuation test was conducted at best efficiency point for all the profiles.
Abstract:
Innovation is becoming more and more important in
modern society. There are a lot of researches on different kinds of
innovation but marketing innovation is one kind of innovation that
has not been studied frequently before. Marketing innovation is
defined as a new way in which companies can market themselves to
potential or existing customers.
The study shows some key elements for marketing innovation that
are worth paying attention to when implementing marketing
innovation projects. Examples of such key elements are: paying
attention to the neglected market, suitable market segmentatio
reliable market information, public relationship, increased customer
value, combination of market factors, explore different marketing
channels and the use of technology in combination with what? Beside
the key elements for marketing innovation, we also present some
risks that may occur, such as cost, market uncertainty, information
leakage, imitation and overdependence on experience.
By proposing a set of indicators to measure marketing innovation,
the article offers solutions for marketing innovation implementation
so that any organization can achieve optimal results.
Abstract: For sterilization of Phalaenopsis culture medium without autoclaving, selected single sterilizing agents and in combinations were added to a 25ml Hyponex medium in a 120ml glass container. Treated liquid and solid media, supplemented with sterilizing agents, were compared to a control medium, autoclaved at 121°C for 15min. It was found that 90(L of 10% povidone-iodine, 150(L of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, 150(L of 2% mercurochrome, 90(L of 2.5% iodine + 2.5% potassium iodine in combination with 10% providone-iodine (1:3) and 30(L of 2.5% iodine + 2.5% potassium iodide in combination with 2% mercurochrome showed 100% sterile conditions in liquid medium but provided 75, 100, 50, 75 and 80% sterile conditions, respectively, in solid medium. For growth of Phalaenopsis protocorms, 90(L of 10% povidone-iodine in liquid Hyponex medium gave the comparable growth of protocorms to control medium while 150(L of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite in solid medium provided the promising growth of protocorms. Growth of protocorms, whole fresh weight, numbers of leaf and root, root length and number of protocorm-like bodies, was discussed.
Abstract: In this study the mixed mode fracture mechanics
parameters were investigated for high tensile steel butt welded joint
based on modified Arcan test and finite element analysis was used to
evaluate the effect of crack length on fracture criterion. The nondimensional
stress intensity factors, strain energy release rates and Jintegral
energy on crack tip were obtained for various in-plane
loading combinations on Arcan specimen starting from pure mode-I
to pure mode-II loading conditions. The specimen and apparatus were
modeled by finite element method and analyzed under various
loading angles (between 0 to 90 degrees with 15 degree interval) to
simulate the pure mode-I, II and mixed mode fracture. Since the
analytical results are independent from elasticity modules for
isotropic materials, therefore the results in elastic fields can be used
for Arcan specimens. The main objective of this study was to
evaluate the geometric calibration factors for modified Arcan test
specimen in order to obtain fracture toughness under mixed mode
loading conditions.
Abstract: Warranty is a powerful marketing tool for the
manufacturer and a good protection for both the manufacturer and the
customer. However, warranty always involves additional costs to the
manufacturer, which depend on product reliability characteristics and
warranty parameters. This paper presents an approach to optimisation
of warranty parameters for known product failure distribution to
reduce the warranty costs to the manufacturer while retaining the
promotional function of the warranty. Combination free replacement
and pro-rata warranty policy is chosen as a model and the length of
free replacement period and pro-rata policy period are varied, as well
as the coefficients that define the pro-rata cost function. Multiparametric
warranty optimisation is done by using genetic algorithm.
Obtained results are guideline for the manufacturer to choose the
warranty policy that minimises the costs and maximises the profit.
Abstract: Recently global concerns for the energy security have
steadily been on the increase and are expected to become a major
issue over the next few decades. Energy security refers to a resilient
energy system. This resilient system would be capable of
withstanding threats through a combination of active, direct security
measures and passive or more indirect measures such as redundancy,
duplication of critical equipment, diversity in fuel, other sources of
energy, and reliance on less vulnerable infrastructure. Threats and
disruptions (disturbances) to one part of the energy system affect
another. The paper presents methodology in theoretical background
about energy system as an interconnected network and energy supply
disturbances impact to the network. The proposed methodology uses
a network flow approach to develop mathematical model of the
energy system network as the system of nodes and arcs with energy
flowing from node to node along paths in the network.
Abstract: In this paper the design of maximally flat linear phase
finite impulse response (FIR) filters is considered. The problem is
handled with totally two different approaches. The first one is
completely deterministic numerical approach where the problem is
formulated as a Linear Complementarity Problem (LCP). The other
one is based on a combination of Markov Random Fields (MRF's)
approach with messy genetic algorithm (MGA). Markov Random
Fields (MRFs) are a class of probabilistic models that have been
applied for many years to the analysis of visual patterns or textures.
Our objective is to establish MRFs as an interesting approach to
modeling messy genetic algorithms. We establish a theoretical result
that every genetic algorithm problem can be characterized in terms of
a MRF model. This allows us to construct an explicit probabilistic
model of the MGA fitness function and introduce the Ising MGA.
Experimentations done with Ising MGA are less costly than those
done with standard MGA since much less computations are involved.
The least computations of all is for the LCP. Results of the LCP,
random search, random seeded search, MGA, and Ising MGA are
discussed.
Abstract: In this paper, we probe into the traffic assignment problem by the chromosome-learning-based path finding method in simulation, which is to model the driver' behavior in the with-in-a-day process. By simply making a combination and a change of the traffic route chromosomes, the driver at the intersection chooses his next route. The various crossover and mutation rules are proposed with extensive examples.
Abstract: Most people know through experience and intuition what the word „sport“ means. Sport includes a combination of these configurations when it involves team competitions, tournaments, or matches in dual sports or individual sports. Sport management - it is an area of professional endeavor in which a variety of sport-related managerial careers exist and it is also an area of academic professional preparation. Exists three unique aspects of sport management: sport marketing, sport enterprise financial structures and sport industry career paths. The aim of the paper was to highlight the growing importance of sport in contemporary society, especially to emphasize its socio-economic benefits and refer to the development of sport management and marketing. The article has shown that sport contributes 2-3% to gross domestic product in the Czech Republic and that the demand for experts, specialists educated for the sports manager profession is growing.
Abstract: Coal will continue to be the predominant source of
global energy for coming several decades. The huge generation of fly
ash (FA) from combustion of coal in thermal power plants (TPPs) is
apprehended to pose the concerns of its disposal and utilization. FA
application based on its typical characteristics as soil ameliorant for
agriculture and forestry is the potential area, and hence the global
attempt. The inferences drawn suffer from the variations of ash
characteristics, soil types, and agro-climatic conditions; thereby
correlating the effects of ash between various plant species and soil
types is difficult. Indian FAs have low bulk density, high water
holding capacity and porosity, rich silt-sized particles, alkaline
nature, negligible solubility, and reasonable plant nutrients. Findings
of the demonstrations trials for more than two decades from lab/pot
to field scale long-term experiments are developed as FA soil
amendment technology (FASAT) by Central Institute of Mining and
Fuel Research (CIMFR), Dhanbad. Performance of different crops
and plant species in cultivable and problematic soils, are
encouraging, eco-friendly, and being adopted by the farmers. FA
application includes ash alone and in combination with
inorganic/organic amendments; combination treatments including
bio-solids perform better than FA alone. Optimum dose being up to
100 t/ha for cultivable land and up to/ or above 200 t/ha of FA for
waste/degraded land/mine refuse, depending on the characteristics of
ash and soil. The elemental toxicity in Indian FA is usually not of
much concern owing to alkaline ashes, oxide forms of elements, and
elemental concentration within the threshold limits for soil
application. Combating toxicity, if any, is possible through
combination treatments with organic materials and phytoremediation.
Government initiatives through extension programme
involving farmers and ash generating organizations need to be
accelerated
Abstract: This paper analyses the performance of a genetic algorithm using a new concept, namely a fractional-order dynamic fitness function, for the synthesis of combinational logic circuits. The experiments reveal superior results in terms of speed and convergence to achieve a solution.
Abstract: Construction of tunnels is connected with high
uncertainty in the field of costs, construction period, safety and
impact on surroundings. Risk management became therefore a
common part of tunnel projects, especially after a set of fatal
collapses occurred in 1990's. Such collapses are caused usually by
combination of factors that can be divided into three main groups, i.e.
unfavourable geological conditions, failures in the design and
planning or failures in the execution.
This paper suggests a procedure enabling quantification of the
excavation risk related to extraordinary accidents using FTA and
ETA tools. It will elaborate on a common process of risk analysis and
enable the transfer of information and experience between particular
tunnel construction projects. Further, it gives a guide for designers,
management and other participants, how to deal with risk of such
accidents and how to make qualified decisions based on a
probabilistic approach.
Abstract: The effect of cassava root ensiled with cassava top or
legumes on voluntary feed intake and milk production were
determined in 12 dairy cows using a 4×3 change-over design.
Experimental period were 30 days long and consisted of 14 days of
adaptation. Silage was prepared from cassava root mixed with
cassava top or legumes at ratio 60:40. Cows were allotted at random
to receive ad libitum one of four rations: T1) control, T2) cassava
root +cassava top-silages, T3) cassava root +hamata - silages and T4)
cassava root +Thapra stylo-silages.
The dry matter intake (BW0.75) was higher (P< 0.05) in cow fed
with silages diets compared with T1. However, the intake of T2 was
higher among treatments. Milk production was lowest in cow fed
with T1. Among silages based diets, milk production was not
significantly different but 4%FCM was higher in cow fed T2. Milk
compositions were not affected by feeding diets.
It is concluded that feeding cassava root ensiled with its leaves as
a supplement increased dry matter intake and significantly improved
4%FCM. The combination of cassava root and legume silages did not
improve the feed intake but did increase the milk production.
Abstract: A study was carried out at the Rice Research Institute of Iran (RRII) to investigate the effect of rollers differential peripheral speed of commercial rubber roll husker and paddy moisture content on the husking index and percentage of broken rice. The experiment was conducted at six levels of rollers differential speed (1.5, 2.2, 2.9, 3.6, 4.3 and 5 m/s) and three levels of paddy moisture content (8-9, 10-11 and 12-13% w.b.). Two common paddy varieties namely, Binam and Khazer, were selected for this study. Results revealed that the effect of rollers differential speed and moisture content significantly (P
Abstract: This paper describes a method to improve the robustness of a face recognition system based on the combination of two compensating classifiers. The face images are preprocessed by the appearance-based statistical approaches such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA). LDA features of the face image are taken as the input of the Radial Basis Function Network (RBFN). The proposed approach has been tested on the ORL database. The experimental results show that the LDA+RBFN algorithm has achieved a recognition rate of 93.5%
Abstract: It is a challenge to provide a wide range of queries to
database query systems for small mobile devices, such as the PDAs
and cell phones. Currently, due to the physical and resource
limitations of these devices, most reported database querying systems
developed for them are only offering a small set of pre-determined
queries for users to possibly pose. The above can be resolved by
allowing free-form queries to be entered on the devices. Hence, a
query language that does not restrict the combination of query terms
entered by users is proposed. This paper presents the free-form query
language and the method used in translating free-form queries to
their equivalent SQL statements.
Abstract: Laser soldering is based on applying some soldering material (albumin) onto the approximated edges of the cut and heating the solder (and the underlying tissues) by a laser beam. Endogenous and exogenous materials such as indocyanine green (ICG) are often added to solders to enhance light absorption. Gold nanoshells are new materials which have an optical response dictated by the plasmon resonance. The wavelength at which the resonance occurs depends on the core and shell sizes, allowing nanoshells to be tailored for particular applications. The purposes of this study was use combination of ICG and different concentration of gold nanoshells for skin tissue soldering and also to examine the effect of laser soldering parameters on the properties of repaired skin. Two mixtures of albumin solder and different combinations of ICG and gold nanoshells were prepared. A full thickness incision of 2×20 mm2 was made on the surface and after addition of mixtures it was irradiated by an 810nm diode laser at different power densities. The changes of tensile strength σt due to temperature rise, number of scan (Ns), and scan velocity (Vs) were investigated. The results showed at constant laser power density (I), σt of repaired incisions increases by increasing the concentration of gold nanoshells in solder, Ns and decreasing Vs. It is therefore important to consider the tradeoff between the scan velocity and the surface temperature for achieving an optimum operating condition. In our case this corresponds to σt =1800 gr/cm2 at I~ 47 Wcm-2, T ~ 85ºC, Ns =10 and Vs=0.3mms-1.
Abstract: In this study, we investigated the effects of ginger and
L-carnitine on the reproductive performance of male rats with respect
to semen parameters, male sex hormones and the testicular
antioxidant system. A total of sixty mature male albino rats were
divided into four groups of fifteen rats. The control group received
saline, whereas the other three groups received ginger (100 mg kg-1 d-
1.), L-carnitine (150 mg kg-1 d-1.) or a combination of both ginger
(100 mg kg-1 d-1.) and L-carnitine (150 mg kg-1 d-1.) via a stomach
tube daily for one month. At the end of the treatment period, the rats
were sacrificed, and their sperm characteristics (count, motility and
viability), antioxidant enzyme factors levels (reduced glutathione,
catalase, superoxide dismutase and total antioxidant capacity) and sex
hormone levels (testosterone, Follicle stimulating hormone(FSH) and
luteinizing hormone (LH) were analysed. Our results showed that the
three experimental treatments improved sperm parameters,
antioxidant enzyme activity and testosterone hormone levels; the
most pronounced positive effects were observed in the group that
received a combination of both ginger and L-carnitine. Therefore, the
administration of a combination of ginger and L-carnitine may be
beneficial for improving male sexual performance.
Abstract: Surface metrology with image processing is a challenging task having wide applications in industry. Surface roughness can be evaluated using texture classification approach. Important aspect here is appropriate selection of features that characterize the surface. We propose an effective combination of features for multi-scale and multi-directional analysis of engineering surfaces. The features include standard deviation, kurtosis and the Canny edge detector. We apply the method by analyzing the surfaces with Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) and Dual-Tree Complex Wavelet Transform (DT-CWT). We used Canberra distance metric for similarity comparison between the surface classes. Our database includes the surface textures manufactured by three machining processes namely Milling, Casting and Shaping. The comparative study shows that DT-CWT outperforms DWT giving correct classification performance of 91.27% with Canberra distance metric.