Abstract: This paper describes an automatic algorithm to restore
the shape of three-dimensional (3D) left ventricle (LV) models created
from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data using a geometry-driven
optimization approach. Our basic premise is to restore the LV shape
such that the LV epicardial surface is smooth after the restoration. A
geometrical measure known as the Minimum Principle Curvature (κ2)
is used to assess the smoothness of the LV. This measure is used to
construct the objective function of a two-step optimization process.
The objective of the optimization is to achieve a smooth epicardial
shape by iterative in-plane translation of the MRI slices.
Quantitatively, this yields a minimum sum in terms of the magnitude
of κ
2, when κ2 is negative. A limited memory quasi-Newton algorithm,
L-BFGS-B, is used to solve the optimization problem. We tested our
algorithm on an in vitro theoretical LV model and 10 in vivo
patient-specific models which contain significant motion artifacts. The
results show that our method is able to automatically restore the shape
of LV models back to smoothness without altering the general shape of
the model. The magnitudes of in-plane translations are also consistent
with existing registration techniques and experimental findings.
Abstract: The aim of this research is to design a collaborative
framework that integrates risk analysis activities into the geospatial
database design (GDD) process. Risk analysis is rarely undertaken
iteratively as part of the present GDD methods in conformance to
requirement engineering (RE) guidelines and risk standards.
Accordingly, when risk analysis is performed during the GDD, some
foreseeable risks may be overlooked and not reach the output
specifications especially when user intentions are not systematically
collected. This may lead to ill-defined requirements and ultimately in
higher risks of geospatial data misuse. The adopted approach consists
of 1) reviewing risk analysis process within the scope of RE and
GDD, 2) analyzing the challenges of risk analysis within the context
of GDD, and 3) presenting the components of a risk-based
collaborative framework that improves the collection of the
intended/forbidden usages of the data and helps geo-IT experts to
discover implicit requirements and risks.
Abstract: Construction projects generally take place in
uncontrolled and dynamic environments where construction waste is
a serious environmental problem in many large cities. The total
amount of waste and carbon dioxide emissions from transportation
vehicles are still out of control due to increasing construction
projects, massive urban development projects and the lack of
effective tools for minimizing adverse environmental impacts in
construction. This research is about utilization of the integrated
applications of automated advanced tracking and data storage
technologies in the area of environmental management to monitor
and control adverse environmental impacts such as construction
waste and carbon dioxide emissions. Radio Frequency Identification
(RFID) integrated with the Global Position System (GPS) provides
an opportunity to uniquely identify materials, components, and
equipments and to locate and track them using minimal or no worker
input. The transmission of data to the central database will be carried
out with the help of Global System for Mobile Communications
(GSM).
Abstract: The condition of lightning surge causes the traveling waves and the temporary increase in voltage in the transmission line system. Lightning is the most harmful for destroying the transmission line and setting devices so it is necessary to study and analyze the temporary increase in voltage for designing and setting the surge arrester. This analysis describes the figure of the lightning wave in transmission line with 115 kV voltage level in Thailand by using ATP/EMTP program to create the model of the transmission line and lightning surge. Because of the limit of this program, it must be calculated for the geometry of the transmission line and surge parameter and calculation in the manual book for the closest value of the parameter. On the other hand, for the effects on surge protector when the lightning comes, the surge arrester model must be right and standardized as metropolitan electrical authority's standard. The candidate compared the real information to the result from calculation, also. The results of the analysis show that the temporary increase in voltage value will be rise to 326.59 kV at the line which is done by lightning when the surge arrester is not set in the system. On the other hand, the temporary increase in voltage value will be 182.83 kV at the line which is done by lightning when the surge arrester is set in the system and the period of the traveling wave is reduced, also. The distance for setting the surge arrester must be as near to the transformer as possible. Moreover, it is necessary to know the right distance for setting the surge arrester and the size of the surge arrester for preventing the temporary increase in voltage, effectively.
Abstract: The theory of Groebner Bases, which has recently been
honored with the ACM Paris Kanellakis Theory and Practice Award,
has become a crucial building block to computer algebra, and is
widely used in science, engineering, and computer science. It is wellknown
that Groebner bases computation is EXP-SPACE in a general
setting. In this paper, we give an algorithm to show that Groebner
bases computation is P-SPACE in Boolean rings. We also show that
with this discovery, the Groebner bases method can theoretically be
as efficient as other methods for automated verification of hardware
and software. Additionally, many useful and interesting properties of
Groebner bases including the ability to efficiently convert the bases
for different orders of variables making Groebner bases a promising
method in automated verification.
Abstract: This paper presents the design and implements the prototype of an intelligent data processing framework in ubiquitous sensor networks. Much focus is put on how to handle the sensor data stream as well as the interoperability between the low-level sensor data and application clients. Our framework first addresses systematic middleware which mitigates the interaction between the application layer and low-level sensors, for the sake of analyzing a great volume of sensor data by filtering and integrating to create value-added context information. Then, an agent-based architecture is proposed for real-time data distribution to efficiently forward a specific event to the appropriate application registered in the directory service via the open interface. The prototype implementation demonstrates that our framework can host a sophisticated application on the ubiquitous sensor network and it can autonomously evolve to new middleware, taking advantages of promising technologies such as software agents, XML, cloud computing, and the like.
Abstract: In this paper, a reliable cooperative multipath routing
algorithm is proposed for data forwarding in wireless sensor networks
(WSNs). In this algorithm, data packets are forwarded towards the
base station (BS) through a number of paths, using a set of relay
nodes. In addition, the Rayleigh fading model is used to calculate
the evaluation metric of links. Here, the quality of reliability is
guaranteed by selecting optimal relay set with which the probability
of correct packet reception at the BS will exceed a predefined
threshold. Therefore, the proposed scheme ensures reliable packet
transmission to the BS. Furthermore, in the proposed algorithm,
energy efficiency is achieved by energy balancing (i.e. minimizing
the energy consumption of the bottleneck node of the routing path)
at the same time. This work also demonstrates that the proposed
algorithm outperforms existing algorithms in extending longevity of
the network, with respect to the quality of reliability. Given this, the
obtained results make possible reliable path selection with minimum
energy consumption in real time.
Abstract: Biomimicry has many potential benefits as many
technologies found in nature are superior to their man-made
counterparts. As technological device components approach the micro
and nanoscale, surface properties such as surface adhesion and friction
may need to be taken into account. Lowering surface adhesion by
manipulating chemistry alone might no longer be sufficient for such
components and thus physical manipulation may be required.
Adhesion reduction is only one of the many surface functions
displayed by micro/nano-structured cuticles of insects. Here, we
present a mini review of our understanding of insect cuticle structures
and the relationship between the structure dimensions and the
corresponding functional mechanisms. It may be possible to introduce
additional properties to material surfaces (indeed multi-functional
properties) based on the design of natural surfaces.
Abstract: This study investigates the electrical performance of a
planar solid oxide fuel cell unit with cross-flow configuration when the fuel utilization gets higher and the fuel inlet flow are non-uniform.
A software package in this study solves two-dimensional,
simultaneous, partial differential equations of mass, energy, and
electro-chemistry, without considering stack direction variation. The
results show that the fuel utilization increases with a decrease in the molar flow rate, and the average current density decreases when the
molar flow rate drops. In addition, non-uniform Pattern A will induce more severe happening of non-reaction area in the corner of the fuel
exit and the air inlet. This non-reaction area deteriorates the average
current density and then deteriorates the electrical performance to –7%.
Abstract: This paper aims to develop a NOx emission model of
an acid gas incinerator using Nelder-Mead least squares support
vector regression (LS-SVR). Malaysia DOE is actively imposing the
Clean Air Regulation to mandate the installation of analytical
instrumentation known as Continuous Emission Monitoring System
(CEMS) to report emission level online to DOE . As a hardware
based analyzer, CEMS is expensive, maintenance intensive and often
unreliable. Therefore, software predictive technique is often
preferred and considered as a feasible alternative to replace the
CEMS for regulatory compliance. The LS-SVR model is built based
on the emissions from an acid gas incinerator that operates in a LNG
Complex. Simulated Annealing (SA) is first used to determine the
initial hyperparameters which are then further optimized based on the
performance of the model using Nelder-Mead simplex algorithm.
The LS-SVR model is shown to outperform a benchmark model
based on backpropagation neural networks (BPNN) in both training
and testing data.
Abstract: With the fast evolution of digital data exchange, security information becomes much important in data storage and transmission. Due to the increasing use of images in industrial process, it is essential to protect the confidential image data from unauthorized access. In this paper, we analyze the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), and we add a key stream generator (A5/1, W7) to AES to ensure improving the encryption performance; mainly for images characterised by reduced entropy. The implementation of both techniques has been realized for experimental purposes. Detailed results in terms of security analysis and implementation are given. Comparative study with traditional encryption algorithms is shown the superiority of the modified algorithm.
Abstract: Fast depth estimation from binocular vision is often
desired for autonomous vehicles, but, most algorithms could not easily
be put into practice because of the much time cost. We present an
image-processing technique that can fast estimate depth image from
binocular vision images. By finding out the lines which present the
best matched area in the disparity space image, the depth can be
estimated. When detecting these lines, an edge-emphasizing filter is
used. The final depth estimation will be presented after the smooth
filter. Our method is a compromise between local methods and global
optimization.
Abstract: Every commercial bank optimises its asset portfolio
depending on the profitability of assets and chosen or imposed
constraints. This paper proposes and applies a stylized model for
optimising banks' asset and liability structure, reflecting profitability
of different asset categories and their risks as well as costs associated
with different liability categories and reserve requirements. The level
of detail for asset and liability categories is chosen to create a
suitably parsimonious model and to include the most important
categories in the model. It is shown that the most appropriate
optimisation criterion for the model is the maximisation of the ratio
of net interest income to assets. The maximisation of this ratio is
subject to several constraints. Some are accounting identities or
dictated by legislative requirements; others vary depending on the
market objectives for a particular bank. The model predicts variable
amount of assets allocated to loan provision.
Abstract: In this paper, we present the design and experimental
evaluation of complementary energy path adiabatic logic (CEPAL)
based 1 bit full adder circuit. A simulative investigation on the
proposed full adder has been done using VIRTUOSO SPECTRE
simulator of cadence in 0.18μm UMC technology and its
performance has been compared with the conventional CMOS full
adder circuit. The CEPAL based full adder circuit exhibits the energy
saving of 70% to the conventional CMOS full adder circuit, at 100
MHz frequency and 1.8V operating voltage.
Abstract: The Pulsed Compression Reactor promises to be a
compact, economical and energy efficient alternative to conventional
chemical reactors.
In this article, the production of synthesis gas using the Pulsed
Compression Reactor is investigated. This is done experimentally as
well as with simulations. The experiments are done by means of a
single shot reactor, which replicates a representative, single
reciprocation of the Pulsed Compression Reactor with great control
over the reactant composition, reactor temperature and pressure and
temperature history. Simulations are done with a relatively simple
method, which uses different models for the chemistry and
thermodynamic properties of the species in the reactor. Simulation
results show very good agreement with the experimental data, and
give great insight into the reaction processes that occur within the
cycle.
Abstract: The greenhouse effect and limitations on carbon
dioxide emissions concern engine maker and the future of the
internal combustion engines should go toward substantially and
improved thermal efficiency engine. Homogeneous charge
compression ignition (HCCI) is an alternative high-efficiency
technology for combustion engines to reduce exhaust emissions and
fuel consumption. However, there are still tough challenges in the
successful operation of HCCI engines, such as controlling the
combustion phasing, extending the operating range, and high
unburned hydrocarbon and CO emissions. HCCI and the exploitation
of ethanol as an alternative fuel is one way to explore new frontiers
of internal combustion engines with an eye towards maintaining its
sustainability. This study was done to extend database knowledge
about HCCI with ethanol a fuel.
Abstract: Some physico-chemical characteristics and mineral
composition of 'Karayemis' (Prunus laurocerasus L.) fruits which
grown naturally in Norteast Turkey was studied. 28 minerals ( Al,
Mg, B, Mn, Co, Na, Ca, Ni, Cd, P, Cr, Pb, Cu, S, Fe, Zn, K, Sr, Li,
As, V, Ag, Ba, Br, Ga, In, Se, Ti) were analyzed and 19 minerals
were present at ascertainable levels. Karayemis fruit was richest in
potassium (7938.711 ppm), magnesium (1242.186 ppm) and calcium
(1158.853 ppm). And some physico-chemical characteristics of
Karayemis fruit was investigated. Fruit length, fruit width, fruit
thickness, fruit weight, total soluble solids, colour, protein, crude ash,
crude fiber, crude oil values were determined as 2.334 cm, 1.884 cm,
2.112 cm, 5.35 g, 20.1 %, S99M99Y99, 0.29 %, 0.22 %, 6.63 % and
0.001 %, respectively. The seed of fruit mean weight, length, width
and thickness were found to be 0.41 g, 1.303 cm, 0.921 cm and
0.803, respectively.
Abstract: Recently electric vehicles are becoming popular as an
alternative of conventional fossil fuel vehicles. Conventional Internal
Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicle uses fossil fuel which contributing
a major part of overall carbon emission in the environment. Carbon
and other green house gas emission are responsible for global
warming and resulting climate change. It becomes vital to evaluate
performance of vehicle based on emission. In this paper an effort has
been made to depict the picture of emission caused by vehicle and
scenario of Australia has taken into account. Effort has been made to
compare the fossil based vehicle with electric vehicle in phases. The
study also evaluates advancement in electric vehicle technology,
required infrastructure for sustainability and future scope of
developments. This paper also includes the evaluation of electric
vehicle concept for pollution control and sustainable transport
systems in future. This study can be a benchmark for development of
electric vehicle as low carbon emission alternative for the cities of
tomorrow.
Abstract: A simple and dexterous in situ method was introduced to load CdS nanocrystals into organofunctionalized mesoporous, which used an ion-exchange method. The products were extensively characterized by combined spectroscopic methods. X- ray diffraction (XRD) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) demonstrated both the maintenance of pore symmetry (space group p6mm) of SBA-15 and the presence of CdS nanocrystals with uniform sizes of about 6 - 8 nm inside the functionalized SBA-15 channels. These mesoporous silica-supported CdS composites showed room temperature photoluminescence properties with a blue shift, indicating the quantum size effect of nanocrystalline CdS.
Abstract: Tea is consumed by a big part of the world-s
population. It has an enormous importance for the Turkish culture.
Nearly it is brewed every morning and evening at the all houses. Also it is consumed with lemon wedge. Habitual drinking of tea
infusions may significantly contribute to daily dietary requirements of elements.
Different instrumental techniques are used for determination of
these elements. But atomic and mass spectroscopic methods are preferred most. In these study chromium, iron and selenium contents
after the hot water brewing of black and green tea were determined
by Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Furthermore, effect
of lemon addition on chromium, iron and selenium concentration tea
infusions is investigated.
Results of the investigation showed that concentration of
chromium, iron and selenium increased in black tea with lemon addition. On the other hand only selenium is increased with lemon
addition in green tea. And iron concentration is not detected in green
tea but its concentration is determined as 1.420 ppm after lemon addition.