Comparison of Single and Multi-Population Evolutionary Algorithm for Path Planning in Navigation Situation

In this paper a comparison of single and multi-population evolutionary algorithm is presented. Tested algorithms are used to determine close to optimal ship paths in collision avoidance situation. For this purpose a path planning problem is defined. A specific structure of the individual path and fitness function is presented. Principle of operation of single-population and multi-population evolutionary algorithm is described. Using presented algorithms the simulations on three close to real sea environments were performed. Regardless of the test situation constant time simulation was maintained. Obtained results are presented in graphical form (sequences of successive stages of the simulation) and in form of table in which the values of fitness function for best individual in each simulation were compared. Undertaken research allow to select evolutionary algorithm that, assuming constant simulation time, will determine a better path in close to real collision avoidance situation at sea.

Claiming blame and giving credit? Unintended effects of how government and opposition frame the Europeanization of welfare

A framing experiment on the Europeanization of health care supports two assumptions derived from the ‘blame avoidance’ literature. The constrained perceptions assumption states that performance evaluations at different political levels have ‘zero-sum’ implications for each other. Empirically, those receiving positive integration frames become not only more positive about the European Union (EU) level, but also more negative about domestic performance (even though frames about such a performance were not provided). The opposite is found for negative frames. Further, the negative bias assumption implies that zero-sum adjustments are best triggered by negative blame frames rather than by positive ‘credit’ frames. Finally, in contrast to standard blame avoidance assumptions, the experiment mimics the realistic situation in which the opposition attacks integration and the government defends it. This reverses the prototypical blame avoidance situation and opens the way for unintended effects. Governments may paint EU-induced conditions in rosy colours, reflecting negatively on its domestic performance. Conversely, the opposition runs the risk of being too gloomy about integration for its own good, as negative EU welfare frames reflect positively on domestic performance.

Initial Driver Avoidance Behavior and Reaction Time to an Unalerted Intersection Incursion

Initial driver avoidance behavior and reaction time to an unexpected intersection incursion was determined using a state-of-the-art motion-based driving simulator (Iowa Driving Simulator). The intersection used for the experiment was on a two-lane rural highway (55 mph speed limit) that controlled perpendicular (crossing) traffic by stop signs. The subject vehicle did not have to stop and had the right-of-way on the highway. At one of three possible start times, an intersecting vehicle began moving into the intersection in front of the subject vehicle. This incurring vehicle intersected from either the driver's left or right side. Ninety-six subjects participated in the study. Subjects in the shortest, most severe collision avoidance situation were significantly slower to react and equally likely to steer or release the accelerator pedal as the initial avoidance maneuver. Subjects in the longest, least severe collision avoidance situation often released the accelerator pedal and braked prior to steering. Gender differences are also discussed.