Abstract: The more recent satellite projects/programs makes
extensive usage of real – time embedded systems. 16 bit processors
which meet the Mil-Std-1750 standard architecture have been used in
on-board systems. Most of the Space Applications have been written
in ADA. From a futuristic point of view, 32 bit/ 64 bit processors are
needed in the area of spacecraft computing and therefore an effort is
desirable in the study and survey of 64 bit architectures for space
applications. This will also result in significant technology
development in terms of VLSI and software tools for ADA (as the
legacy code is in ADA).
There are several basic requirements for a special processor for
this purpose. They include Radiation Hardened (RadHard) devices,
very low power dissipation, compatibility with existing operational
systems, scalable architectures for higher computational needs,
reliability, higher memory and I/O bandwidth, predictability, realtime
operating system and manufacturability of such processors.
Further on, these may include selection of FPGA devices, selection
of EDA tool chains, design flow, partitioning of the design, pin
count, performance evaluation, timing analysis etc.
This project deals with a brief study of 32 and 64 bit processors
readily available in the market and designing/ fabricating a 64 bit
RISC processor named RISC MicroProcessor with added
functionalities of an extended double precision floating point unit
and a 32 bit signal processing unit acting as co-processors. In this
paper, we emphasize the ease and importance of using Open Core
(OpenSparc T1 Verilog RTL) and Open “Source" EDA tools such as
Icarus to develop FPGA based prototypes quickly. Commercial tools
such as Xilinx ISE for Synthesis are also used when appropriate.
Abstract: We address the balancing problem of transfer lines in
this paper to find the optimal line balancing that minimizes the nonproductive
time. We focus on the tool change time and face
orientation change time both of which influence the makespane. We
consider machine capacity limitations and technological constraints
associated with the manufacturing process of auto cylinder heads.
The problem is represented by a mixed integer programming model
that aims at distributing the design features to workstations and
sequencing the machining processes at a minimum non-productive
time. The proposed model is solved by an algorithm established using
linearization schemes and Benders- decomposition approach. The
experiments show the efficiency of the algorithm in reaching the
exact solution of small and medium problem instances at reasonable
time.
Abstract: Long terms variation of solar insolation had been
widely studied. However, its parallel observations in short time scale
is rather lacking. This paper aims to investigate the short time scale
evolution of solar radiation spectrum (UV, PAR, and NIR bands) due
to atmospheric aerosols and water vapors. A total of 25 days of
global and diffused solar spectrum ranges from air mass 2 to 6 were
collected using ground-based spectrometer with shadowband
technique. The result shows that variation of solar radiation is the
least in UV fraction, followed by PAR and the most in NIR. Broader
variations in PAR and NIR are associated with the short time scale
fluctuations of aerosol and water vapors. The corresponding daily
evolution of UV, PAR, and NIR fractions implies that aerosol and
water vapors variation could also be responsible for the deviation
pattern in the Langley-plot analysis.
Abstract: Clustering algorithms help to understand the hidden
information present in datasets. A dataset may contain intrinsic and
nested clusters, the detection of which is of utmost importance. This
paper presents a Distributed Grid-based Density Clustering algorithm
capable of identifying arbitrary shaped embedded clusters as well as
multi-density clusters over large spatial datasets. For handling
massive datasets, we implemented our method using a 'sharednothing'
architecture where multiple computers are interconnected
over a network. Experimental results are reported to establish the
superiority of the technique in terms of scale-up, speedup as well as
cluster quality.
Abstract: We report on a high-speed quantum cryptography
system that utilizes simultaneous entanglement in polarization and in
“time-bins". With multiple degrees of freedom contributing to the
secret key, we can achieve over ten bits of random entropy per detected coincidence. In addition, we collect from multiple spots o
the downconversion cone to further amplify the data rate, allowing usto achieve over 10 Mbits of secure key per second.
Abstract: Software reliability, defined as the probability of a
software system or application functioning without failure or errors
over a defined period of time, has been an important area of research
for over three decades. Several research efforts aimed at developing
models to improve reliability are currently underway. One of the
most popular approaches to software reliability adopted by some of
these research efforts involves the use of operational profiles to
predict how software applications will be used. Operational profiles
are a quantification of usage patterns for a software application. The
research presented in this paper investigates an innovative multiagent
framework for automatic creation and management of
operational profiles for generic distributed systems after their release
into the market. The architecture of the proposed Operational Profile
MAS (Multi-Agent System) is presented along with detailed
descriptions of the various models arrived at following the analysis
and design phases of the proposed system. The operational profile in
this paper is extended to comprise seven different profiles. Further,
the criticality of operations is defined using a new composed metrics
in order to organize the testing process as well as to decrease the time
and cost involved in this process. A prototype implementation of the
proposed MAS is included as proof-of-concept and the framework is
considered as a step towards making distributed systems intelligent
and self-managing.
Abstract: Optimization is often a critical issue for most system
design problems. Evolutionary Algorithms are population-based,
stochastic search techniques, widely used as efficient global
optimizers. However, finding optimal solution to complex high
dimensional, multimodal problems often require highly
computationally expensive function evaluations and hence are
practically prohibitive. The Dynamic Approximate Fitness based
Hybrid EA (DAFHEA) model presented in our earlier work [14]
reduced computation time by controlled use of meta-models to
partially replace the actual function evaluation by approximate
function evaluation. However, the underlying assumption in
DAFHEA is that the training samples for the meta-model are
generated from a single uniform model. Situations like model
formation involving variable input dimensions and noisy data
certainly can not be covered by this assumption. In this paper we
present an enhanced version of DAFHEA that incorporates a
multiple-model based learning approach for the SVM approximator.
DAFHEA-II (the enhanced version of the DAFHEA framework) also
overcomes the high computational expense involved with additional
clustering requirements of the original DAFHEA framework. The
proposed framework has been tested on several benchmark functions
and the empirical results illustrate the advantages of the proposed
technique.
Abstract: Shadow detection is still considered as one of the
potential challenges for intelligent automated video surveillance
systems. A pre requisite for reliable and accurate detection and
tracking is the correct shadow detection and classification. In such a
landscape of conditions, privacy issues add more and more
complexity and require reliable shadow detection.
In this work the intertwining between security, accuracy,
reliability and privacy is analyzed and, accordingly, a novel
architecture for Privacy Enhancing Video Surveillance (PEVS) is
introduced. Shadow detection and masking are dealt with through the
combination of two different approaches simultaneously. This results
in a unique privacy enhancement, without affecting security.
Subsequently, the methodology was employed successfully in a
large-scale wireless video surveillance system; privacy relevant
information was stored and encrypted on the unit, without
transferring it over an un-trusted network.
Abstract: This paper studies ruin probabilities in two discrete-time
risk models with premiums, claims and rates of interest modelled by
three autoregressive moving average processes. Generalized Lundberg
inequalities for ruin probabilities are derived by using recursive
technique. A numerical example is given to illustrate the applications
of these probability inequalities.
Abstract: Intrusion Detection Systems are increasingly a key
part of systems defense. Various approaches to Intrusion Detection
are currently being used, but they are relatively ineffective. Artificial
Intelligence plays a driving role in security services. This paper
proposes a dynamic model Intelligent Intrusion Detection System,
based on specific AI approach for intrusion detection. The
techniques that are being investigated includes neural networks and
fuzzy logic with network profiling, that uses simple data mining
techniques to process the network data. The proposed system is a
hybrid system that combines anomaly, misuse and host based
detection. Simple Fuzzy rules allow us to construct if-then rules that
reflect common ways of describing security attacks. For host based
intrusion detection we use neural-networks along with self
organizing maps. Suspicious intrusions can be traced back to its
original source path and any traffic from that particular source will
be redirected back to them in future. Both network traffic and system
audit data are used as inputs for both.
Abstract: The removal efficiency of 4-chlorophenol with
different advanced oxidation processes have been studied. Oxidation
experiments were carried out using two 4-chlorophenol
concentrations: 100 mg L-1 and 250 mg L-1 and UV generated from a
KrCl excilamp with (molar ratio H2O2: 4-chlorophenol = 25:1) and
without H2O2, and, with Fenton process (molar ratio H2O2:4-
chlorophenol of 25:1 and Fe2+ concentration of 5 mg L-1).
The results show that there is no significant difference in the 4-
chlorophenol conversion when using one of the three assayed
methods. However, significant concentrations of the photoproductos
still remained in the media when the chosen treatment involves UV
without hydrogen peroxide. Fenton process removed all the
intermediate photoproducts except for the hydroquinone and the
1,2,4-trihydroxybenzene. In the case of UV and hydrogen peroxide
all the intermediate photoproducts are removed.
Microbial bioassays were carried out utilising the naturally
luminescent bacterium Vibrio fischeri and a genetically modified
Pseudomonas putida isolated from a waste treatment plant receiving
phenolic waste. The results using V. fischeri show that with samples
after degradation, only the UV treatment showed toxicity (IC50 =38)
whereas with H2O2 and Fenton reactions the samples exhibited no
toxicity after treatment in the range of concentrations studied. Using
the Pseudomonas putida biosensor no toxicity could be detected for
all the samples following treatment due to the higher tolerance of the
organism to phenol concentrations encountered.
Abstract: Prior to the use of detectors, characteristics
comparison study was performed and baseline established. In patient
specific QA, the portal dosimetry mean values of area gamma,
average gamma and maximum gamma were 1.02, 0.31 and 1.31 with
standard deviation of 0.33, 0.03 and 0.14 for IMRT and the
corresponding values were 1.58, 0.48 and 1.73 with standard
deviation of 0.31, 0.06 and 0.66 for VMAT. With ImatriXX 2-D
array system, on an average 99.35% of the pixels passed the criteria
of 3%-3 mm gamma with standard deviation of 0.24 for dynamic
IMRT. For VMAT, the average value was 98.16% with a standard
deviation of 0.86. The results showed that both the systems can be
used in patient specific QA measurements for IMRT and VMAT.
The values obtained with the portal dosimetry system were found to
be relatively more consistent compared to those obtained with
ImatriXX 2-D array system.
Abstract: The problem on the conservation programme of the Royal Thai Navy Sea Turtle Nursery, Phang-nga Province, Thailand is high mortality rate of juvenile green sea turtle (Cheloniamydas) on nursing period. So, during May to October 2012, postmortem examinations of juvenile green sea turtle were performed to determine the causes of dead. Fresh tissues of postmortem of 15 juvenile green sea turtles (1-3 months old) were investigated using paraffin section technique. The results showed normal ultrastructure of all tissue organs. These instances reviewed the health and stability of the environments in which juvenile green sea turtles live and concern for the survival rate. The present article also provides guidance for a review of the biology, guidelines for appropriate postmortem tissue, normal histology and sampling collection and procedures. The data also provides information for conservation of this endangered species in term of acknowledging and encouraging people to protect the animals and their habitats in nature.
Abstract: This paper reports on the results of experimental
investigations of flash evaporation from superheated jet issues
vertically upward from a round straight nozzle of 81.3 mm diameter.
For the investigated range of jet superheat degree and velocity, it was
shown that flash evaporation enhances with initial temperature
increase. Due to the increase of jet inertia and subsequently the delay
of jet shattering, increase of jet velocity was found to result in
increase of evaporation "delay period". An empirical equation
predicts the jet evaporation completion height was developed, this
equation is thought to be useful in designing the flash evaporation
chamber. In attempts for enhancement of flash evaporation, use of
steel wire mesh located at short distance downstream was found
effective with no consequent pressure drop.
Abstract: Aroma forming volatiles are important components of
fermented beverages. The aim of current research is to evaluate the
volatile compounds and phenolic compounds of commercial ciders.
Volatile aroma compounds and TPC of seven commercial ciders
were determined. Extraction of aroma compounds was performed
using solid phase microextraction (DVB/Car/PDMS fibre). Analysis
of volatile aroma compounds was made using a Perkin Elmer Clarus
500 GC/MS. Total phenol content (TPC) was determined according
to the Folin-Ciocalteu spectrophotometric method and results were
expressed as gallic acid equivalents. The highest volatile compounds
were in apple ciders with pear flavor. The highest TPC and lower
content of volatile compounds were detected in French ciders.
Abstract: The fast technology and economic growth in China has
attracted global attention in its tourism development. This study makes
an effort on investigating China-s online tourism market and the
Chinese online travelers- perceptions of hotel websites. The findings
are expected to better understand Chinese customers- online
preference and identified the differences among online travelers from
different regions in the country. Empirical findings showed online
reservation information is the most important factor to Chinese
customers, and tourists from different regions of China have
perception difference on user-friendly factor. The findings benefit
hoteliers from understanding their websites development and
formulating more appropriate online strategies to meet the
requirements of Chinese travelers.
Abstract: A closed-loop controlled wireless power transmission circuit block for implantable biomedical applications is described in this paper. The circuit consists of one front-end rectifier, power management sub-block including bandgap reference and low drop-out regulators (LDOs) as well as transmission power detection / feedback circuits. Simulation result shows that the front-end rectifier achieves 80% power efficiency with 750-mV single-end peak-to-peak input voltage and 1.28-V output voltage under load current of 4 mA. The power management block can supply 1.8mA average load current under 1V consuming only 12μW power, which is equivalent to 99.3% power efficiency. The wireless power transmission block described in this paper achieves a maximum power efficiency of 80%. The wireless power transmission circuit block is designed and implemented using UMC 65-nm CMOS/RF process. It occupies 1 mm × 1.2 mm silicon area.
Abstract: Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging(fMRI) is a
noninvasive imaging technique that measures the hemodynamic
response related to neural activity in the human brain. Event-related
functional magnetic resonance imaging (efMRI) is a form of
functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) in which a series of
fMRI images are time-locked to a stimulus presentation and averaged
together over many trials. Again an event related potential (ERP) is a
measured brain response that is directly the result of a thought or
perception. Here the neuronal response of human visual cortex in
normal healthy patients have been studied. The patients were asked
to perform a visual three choice reaction task; from the relative
response of each patient corresponding neuronal activity in visual
cortex was imaged. The average number of neurons in the adult
human primary visual cortex, in each hemisphere has been estimated
at around 140 million. Statistical analysis of this experiment was
done with SPM5(Statistical Parametric Mapping version 5) software.
The result shows a robust design of imaging the neuronal activity of
human visual cortex.
Abstract: This study examines the influence of information
transparency and corporate governance on purchase directors and
officers liability (D&O) insurance decisions. The results show that
companies with greater information transparency have significant
demand for D&O insurance. Greater transparency in voluntary
disclosures is significantly and positively associated with demand for
insurance, indicating that increasing the degree of information
disclosure reduces information asymmetry for insurers, which
stimulates their willingness to provide greater protection.
Analysis of insured and uninsured subsamples indicates that
uninsured companies have superior corporate governance compared to
insured companies. Although insured companies tend to have weaker
corporate governance structures, they appoint Big 4 firms or industry
experts to compensate for the weakness of their corporate governance.
Empirical results indicate that purchasing D&O insurance can
strengthen external corporate governance and increase companies’
willingness to voluntarily provide more transparent information.
Abstract: The main aim of this work is to develop a model of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) separation from natural gas by using membrane separation technology. The model is developed by incorporating three diffusion mechanisms which are Knudsen, viscous and surface diffusion towards membrane selectivity and permeability. The findings from the simulation result shows that the permeability of the gas is dependent toward the pore size of the membrane, operating pressure, operating temperature as well as feed composition. The permeability of methane has the highest value for Poly (1-trimethylsilyl-1-propyne ) PTMSP membrane at pore size of 0.1nm and decreasing toward a minimum peak at pore range 1 to 1.5 nm as pore size increased before it increase again for pore size is greater than 1.5 nm. On the other hand, the permeability of hydrogen sulfide is found to increase almost proportionally with the increase of membrane pore size. Generally, the increase of pressure will increase the permeability of gas since more driving force is provided to the system while increasing of temperature would decrease the permeability due to the surface diffusion drop off effect. A corroboration of the simulation result also showed a good agreement with the experimental data.