Automatic extraction of local features from images plays an important role in many computer vision tasks. During the last years, much focus has been put on making the features invariant to geometric transformations such as a rotation and scaling of the image. Recently, some work has been published concerning the integration of color information into the detection and description step of SIFT. In various evaluations, it has been shown that including color information can increase distinctiveness and invariance to photometric transformations caused by illumination changes. In this paper we build on the results from these approaches and apply them to the SURF descriptor, which is advantageous compared to SIFT in terms of speed, making it a perfect candidate for online applications, for example in the field of robotics. Our results show significant improvements concerning the repeatability and destinctiveness of SURF for 3D objects under varying illumination directions.

In contrast to many other evaluations we also determine the accuracy of the orientation assignment and include this into our comparisons.

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(Source: www.ap.org)
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There are thousands of diet plans available today to individuals seeking weight-loss. Although many are healthy, several fad diets promise quick weight-loss results by restricting food groups and/or keeping calorie counts low. High-protein diets encourage eating foods high in protein while limiting carbohydrates and keeping fat intake moderate. The amount of carbohydrates permitted on high-protein diets varies widely among programs between severe restrictions to moderate consumption. The Mayo Clinic cites that high-protein diets may been effective for short-term results, but long-term evidence is not defined and health risks may increase. Consult with a physician prior to initiating any new dietary regimen.
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Besides infections and post-infectious states, there are many different theories on the origin of irritable bowel syndrome. There is still disagreement whether the problem is caused peripherally (the gut itself), centrally (in the brain) or in both.
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An investigation reported by the French magazine Sciences et Avenir explores the truth about the benefits of wine on human health. A controversy has existed as to what is an acceptable, sensible consumption by humans of alcohol. Here we find that the cultural traditions collide with the scientific field and to the medical profession. Recent research is debunking the French Paradox.
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