Reducing blocking artefacts in MPEG video coded images using entropic methods

In this paper investigation is made of the. use of entropic methods to identify smooth image blocks in order to filter the reconstructed image of block based transform coded images. We know that blocking artefact is Visually more prominent in the smooth region of a block rather than in the textured region. The entropic methods are employed to distinguish between smooth and textured blocks in a reconstructed image. The linear filtering is then carried out on the smooth region of the image to reduce the blocking artefact. The en tropic criteria investigated in this paper are: Shannon's (Logarithmic) Entropy, Exponential Entropy, and Quadratic Entropy.

Performance of statistical inference for block classification in reducing blocking artefact in video coded images

This paper presents a performance study of four statistical test algorithms used to identify smooth image blocks in order to filter the reconstructed image of a video coded image. The four algorithms considered are the Coefficient of Variation (CV), Exponential Entropy of Pal and Pal (E), Shannon's (Logarithmic) Entropy (H), and Quadratic Entropy (Q). These statistical algorithms are employed to distinguish between smooth and textured blocks in a reconstructed image. The linear filtering is carried out on the smooth blocks of the image to reduce the blocking artefact. The rationale behind applying the filter on the smooth blocks only is that the blocking artefact is visually more prominent in the smooth region of an image rather than in the textured region.

Print versus website physical activity programs: a randomized trial.

Background: Mediated physical activity interventions can reach large numbers of people at low cost. Programs delivered through the mail that target the stage of motivational readiness have been shown to increase activity. Communication technology (websites and e-mail) might provide a means for delivering similar programs. Methods: Randomized trial conducted between August and October 2001. Participants included staff at an Australian university (n=655; mean AGE=43, standard deviation, 10 years). Participants were randomized to either an 8-week, stage-targeted print program (Print) or 8-week, stage-targeted website (Web) program. The main outcome was change in self-reported physical activity. Results: There was no significant increase in total reported physical activity within or between groups when analyzed by intention to treat (F [1,653]=0.41, p=0.52). There was a significant increase in total physical activity reported by the Print participants who were inactive at baseline (t [1,173]=−2.21, p=0.04), and a significant decrease in the average time spent sitting on a weekday in the Web group (t [1,326]=2.2, p=0.03). Conclusions: There were no differences between the Print and Web program effects on reported physical activity. The Print group demonstrated slightly larger effects and a higher level of recognition of program materials.

SME myths: if we put up a website customers will come to us-why usability is important

Many businesses use their Websites primarily as an alternative marketing strategy. How a business’s image, via a Website, is presented to potential customers is therefore important. There are many factors that will influence the effectiveness of a Website, two critical factors are how easily users are able to navigate and how easy the site is to use. The research reported here examined these two factors on users’ responses to small and medium-sized business Websites. The research found that the quality of navigation and how easy a site is to use does have an impact, how much information is read, the importance of the graphical components, a user's emotional response to a Website, users’ frustration and the user’s intention to return to that Website. The research established the statistically significant elements that contribute to navigation and ease-of-use, and describes the design and successful application of a usability evaluation instrument.

Measuring tourism website communication out of Central America

This study analyses website communication out of Central American nations using content analysis. The official government tourism websites of seven countries were analysed and mapped. We found that some countries communicate far more specific messages than others, in a way that allows the personality of the country – often termed its “brand” – to shine through. Others are currently failing to communicate distinctly. This article illustrates an easy and relatively inexpensive way for international tourism marketers to examine their brands as they are communicate online. The contribution of this study is the use of a simple research approach and set of tools that both tourism researchers and managers can use.

Ten lessons for developing a health information website

This paper outlines ten lessons derived from the development of a palliative care website, www.pallcarevic.asn.au. The following program elements contributed to the success of the project: (1) peer and stakeholder participation; (2) response to a significant need; (3) networking skills; (4) administrative skills; (5) mediation of conflicts; (6) project management skills; (7) sourcing of good evidence; (8) iterative evaluation involving users and stakeholders; (9) iterative expert evaluation; and (10) a well thought through sustainability strategy.

Deakin University Library website 2.0 : iterative change for maximum gain

The purpose of library websites is evolving. Deakin University Library originally undertook to redevelop its website to provide improved access to information, resources and services and to better meet clients in their space. The first phase redeveloped the library homepage and top level link pages. During this time, social networking applications were becoming part of higher education. There were new choices: the Library website and search tools could undergo significant metamorphosis; adopt Web2.0 functionality and move from being the public face of the online library to the public space of its online community, with students and staff as active partners in its development.

Post-literacy, a school, a website and lifelong learning in a regional context

This paper explores the potential impact that visual literacy or post-literacy in the postmodern age has on traditional educational structures. It follows a collaboration between an academic and a Central Queensland regional school in a learning journey that initially culminated in a website but then became a lifelong-learning experience for all participants.

Hotcopy (website)

www.hotcopy.info is a public site provided by the Faculty of Arts to all who are interested in the HOTcopy project created for Journalism Studies at Deakin University. The Website has also been created for the staff and students of the Journalism Major Program. Restricted areas of the site are designated for use by students and staff of Deakin University and require password access. These areas contain information about the conduct of courses and the development, use and evaluation of HOTcopy.