Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Simulating the Navigation and Control of Autonomous Agents ∗

While traditional data fusion started with systems which exploit the output of multiple sensors so as to optimise the characterisation or recognition of objects of interest, modern information fusion systems will increasingly integrate all types of information, including behavioural information and information resulting from modelling, analysis and computation. In many critical applications, modelling the behaviour of groups of coordinated autonomous entities must be carried out within physically accurate settings in order to provide realistic information about their likely behaviour. The simulated entities must conduct autonomous actions which are realistic, which follow plans of action, but which also exhibit intelligent reactive behaviour in response to unforeseen conditions. In this paper we describe how a complex and simulation environment can be used to fuse information about the behaviour of groups of objects of interest. The fused information includes the objects’ individual pursuits and aims, the physical and geographic setting within which they act, and their collective social behaviour. The group control algorithms combine reinforcement learning, social potential fields and imitation. We summarise the design of a simulation system that we have designed based on these principles.
An Exploration of Degree of Meditation Attainment in Relation to Psychic Awareness with Tibetan Buddhists

Phenolic compounds of general formula (I); and recording materials characterized by containing one of them and exhibiting high light stability wherein R1 and R2 are each hydrogen or C1-C6 alkyl; m is an integer of 1 to 6; n is an integer of 0 to 2; p and t are each an integer of 0 to 3 with the proviso that not both are simultaneously 0; R3 and R4 are each nitro, carboxyl, halogeno, C1-C6 alkyl, or the like; q and u are each an integer of 0 to 2 with the proviso that when q or u is 2, R3s or R4s may be different from each other; and Y is CO or NR5CO (wherein R5 is hydrogen or the like), with the proviso that when Y is CO, p is 1 and that when p is 0 and Y is NR5CO, n is not 0.
Boundary effects in the linguistic representations of simple recurrent networks

This paper describes a number of simulations which show that SRN representations exhibit interactions between memory and sentence and clause boundaries reminiscent of effects described in the early psycholinguistic literature (Jarvella, 1971; Caplan, 1972). Moreover, these effects can be accounted for by the intrinsic properties of SRN representations without the need to invoke external memory mechanisms, as has conventionally been done.
Requests in English by second-language users

The study of learners' pragmatic and discourse knowledge, also known as interlanguage pragmatics, is now an important preoccupation of second-language acquisition (SLA) research. Spurred by this growing interest in interlanguage pragmatics and with a view to contributing to this field of research I conducted a study of requests in English produced by English as a second language (ESL) university students in their daily interaction mainly with lecturers. I collected the data for this study by means of observation and by recording golden episodes of requesting behaviour in students' spontaneous speech. For comparative purposes, I elicited additional data by means of a discourse-completion task (DCT). One finding is that the students' knowledge of contextual use of requesting strategies in English is inadequate because their requests are of (very) limited range and inappropriate in context. The inappropriacy of the requests was confirmed by native speakers' judgments. One explanation of the inadequacy of the students' pragmatic knowledge is the lack of exposure to the whole gamut of requesting devices. Another may have a strategic dimension. Also important is the explanation of transfer from the first language/s (L1/s) : learners may be simply carrying over into English structures translated from their L1. From a pedagogical point of view, it is suggested that discourse and pragmatic knowledge be systematically taught to avoid miscommunication and negative reactions from native and competent non-native speakers of English. The suggestion of teaching pragmatic knowledge seems to be supported by the finding about one subject who, after exposure to a variety of requesting expressions, seemed to modify the pattern of her requests.
Different Effects of Voluntary and Involuntary Attention on EEG Activity in the Gamma Band

Previous studies have shown that EEG activity in the gamma range can be modulated by attention. Here, we compared this activity for voluntary and involuntary spatial attention in a spatial-cueing paradigm with faces as targets. The stimuli and trial timing were kept constant across attention conditions with only the predictive value of the cue changing. Gamma-band response was linked to voluntary shifts of attention, but not to the involuntary capture of attention. The presence of increased gamma responses for the voluntary allocation of attention, and its absence in cases of involuntary capture suggests that the neural mechanisms governing these two types of attention are different. Moreover, these data allow a description of the temporal dynamics contributing to the dissociation between voluntary and involuntary attention. The distribution of this correlate of voluntary attention is consistent with a top-down process involving contralateral anterior and posterior regions.
Difficult airway and difficult intubation in postintubation tracheal stenosis: a case report and literature review

Management of a “difficult airway” remains one of the most relevant and challenging tasks for anesthesiologists and pulmonary physicians. Several conditions, such as inflammation, trauma, tumor, and immunologic and metabolic diseases, are considered responsible for the difficult intubation of a critically ill patient. In this case report we present the case of a 46-year-old male with postintubation tracheal stenosis. We will focus on the method of intubation used, since the patient had a “difficult airway” and had to be intubated immediately because he was in a life-threatening situation. Although technology is of utter importance, clinical examination and history-taking remain invaluable for the appropriate evaluation of the critically ill patient in everyday medical life. Every physician who will be required to perform intubation has to be familiar with the evaluation of the difficult airway and, in the event of the unanticipated difficult airway, to be able to use a wide variety of tools and techniques to avoid complications and fatality.
Esaliency (Extended Saliency): Meaningful Attention Using Stochastic Image Modeling

Computer vision attention processes assign variable-hypothesized importance to different parts of the visual input and direct the allocation of computational resources. This nonuniform allocation might help accelerate the image analysis process. This paper proposes a new bottom-up attention mechanism. Rather than taking the traditional approach, which tries to model human attention, we propose a validated stochastic model to estimate the probability that an image part is of interest. We refer to this probability as saliency and thus specify saliency in a mathematically well-defined sense. The model quantifies several intuitive observations, such as the greater likelihood of correspondence between visually similar image regions and the likelihood that only a few of interesting objects will be present in the scene. The latter observation, which implies that such objects are (relaxed) global exceptions, replaces the traditional preference for local contrast. The algorithm starts with a rough preattentive segmentation and then uses a graphical model approximation to efficiently reveal which segments are more likely to be of interest. Experiments on natural scenes containing a variety of objects demonstrate the proposed method and show its advantages over previous approaches.
A proteomic approach to the identification of early molecular targets changed by L‐ascorbic acid in NB4 human leukemia cells

The pro‐oxidant effect of L‐ascorbic acid (LAA) is toxic to leukemia cells. LAA induces the oxidation of glutathione to its oxidized form (GSSG) and this is followed by a concentration‐dependent H2O2 accumulation, which occurs in parallel to the induction of apoptosis. To identify early protein targets of LAA in leukemia cells, we used a differential proteomics approach in NB4 human leukemia cells treated with 0.5 mM of LAA for 30 min. This exposure was determined to efficiently block cellular proliferation and to activate oxidative stress‐inducible apoptosis. We identified nine proteins that sensitively reacted to LAA treatment by using two‐dimensional (2‐D) gel electrophoresis and matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight‐MS. A subunit of protein‐disulfide isomerase (a thiol/disulfide exchange catalyst) and immunoglobulin‐heavy‐chain binding protein (BiP, identical to Hsp70 chaperone) showed quantitative expression profile differences. A myeloid leukemia associated antigen protein (a tropomyosin isoform) showed changes in pI as a result of phosphorylation. Our studies demonstrate for the first time that the addition of LAA to cells results in an immediate change in the intracellular thiol/disulfide condition and that this includes an increase in the GSH oxidation with changes in the superfamily of thiol/disulfide exchange catalysts. These results suggest that LAA oxidizes intracellular reduced glutathione and modulates disulfide bond formation in proteins. J. Cell. Biochem. 99: 1628–1641, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The experience of traumatic brain injury in Botswana

Whilst the consequences of traumatic brain injury (TBI) are understood in Western countries, it is not known how cultural background and beliefs affect response and outcome following TBI in low and middle income countries. This study aimed to explore the experiences of TBI in Botswana. Participants included 21 individuals with moderate to severe TBI (68% males, mean age 35.2 years), 18 caregivers and 25 healthcare workers. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were transcribed, translated and thematically coded. Thematic analysis indicated several themes: Injury-related changes, attributions and beliefs about the cause of the injury, family reactions, attitudes, and resources. Participants described the common injury-related effects of TBI. Many participants attributed their injury to supernatural causes. Immediate family members of participants with TBI expressed a sense of love and devotion towards the injured person. Communication was characterised by inadequate information given to those injured and their caregivers. Provision of care was impeded by insufficient staff, limited supplies and lack of training of nurses. The current healthcare system would therefore appear to be ill-equipped to meet the needs of TBI survivors in Botswana. This study will improve understanding of cultural responses and approaches to brain injuries in Botswana which may, in turn, inform improved practice.
Slacker: Fast Distribution with Lazy Docker Containers

Containerized applications are becoming increasingly popular, but unfortunately, current container-deployment methods are very slow. We develop a new container benchmark, HelloBench, to evaluate the startup times of 57 different containerized applications. We use HelloBench to analyze workloads in detail, studying the block I/O patterns exhibited during startup and compressibility of container images. Our analysis shows that pulling packages accounts for 76% of container start time, but only 6.4% of that data is read. We use this and other findings to guide the design of Slacker, a new Docker storage driver optimized for fast container startup. Slacker is based on centralized storage that is shared between all Docker workers and registries. Workers quickly provision container storage using backend clones and minimize startup latency by lazily fetching container data. Slacker speeds up the median container development cycle by 20× and deployment cycle by 5×.
Scheduling of semi-independent real-time components: Overrun methods and resource holding times.

The hierarchical scheduling framework (HSF) has been introduced as a design-time framework enabling compositional schedulability analysis of embedded software systems with real-time properties. In this paper a system consists of a number of semi-independent components called subsystems. Subsystems are developed independently and later integrated to form a system. To support this design process, our proposed methods allow non-intrusive configuration and tuning of subsystem timing-behaviour via subsystem interfaces for selecting scheduling parameters. This paper considers two methods to handle overruns due to resource sharing between subsystems in the HSF. We present the scheduling algorithms for overruns and their associated schedulability analysis, together with analysis that shows under what circumstances one or the other overrun method is preferred. Furthermore, we show how to calculate resource-holding times within our framework.
Heat Transfer Modeling in a Reciprocating Compressor

An experimental analysis of a variable-speed reciprocating compressor for household refrigeration, with an operating speed range of 2000 to 5000 rpm , is herein presented. The main parameters describing the compressor performance as a function of the shaft speed , are presented for a standard operating condition. A efficiency breakdown analysis is outlined. The motor characteristics and the inverter control system are discussed. It has been identified that the compressor efficiency at low speed, is penalized by the lower compression and motor efficiencies, while at the high speed the negative effects are the low mechanical and valve efficiencies. The maximum compressor efficiency stays around 60 Hz which corresponds to its original design speed. INTRODUCTION Experimental evaluations were performed on a regular reciprocating compressor, where the standard induction motor was replaced by a Brushless Permanent Magnet (BPM) motor, providing a capacity variation by controlling the motor speed. Additionally, small changes were introduced on the oil pumping mechanism to assure full lubrication for all the mechanical components, to speed levels below 1500 rpm. A refrigeration system utilizing the technique of capacity modulation, may reduce its energy consumption by eliminating the on-off cycling losses, enhancing the heat exchangers performance, and allowing the compressor to work on a mor~ favorable condition. Also smaller compressors may be used. Besides the energy consumption aspects, other advantages like better food conservation quality, quick freezing ability and lower noise level, may also be obtained by utilizing a variable speed compressor. The current analysis is solely based on the compressor itself. The objective is to outline the compressor performance characteristics as function of the operating speed. MOTOR CHARACTERISTICS A conventional induction motor for the compressor is not suitable due to the high power losses at low speeds when operated with an inverter, resulting in low electrical efficiency. The BPM motor, on the other hand, has the characteristic of high efficiency and easy control strategy over a wide speed range. Nevertheless, the BPM motor needs a rotor position detector for proper operation . Since the use of internal sensors is not suitable for hermetic compressors, the back EMF structure was chosen for the rotor position detector.
Change detection in urban areas using very high spatial resolution satellite images: case study in Brussels

In this paper we examine the possibilities of using VHR images for locating major changes (i.e. buildings, roads and vegetation) in order to focus ground topographical measurements and to keep a topographic 1:1000 database (UrbIS) of urban areas up-to-date in between two aerial photographic flights. The techniques implemented are multi-temporal classification and post-classification change detection. These techniques are used as such and in GIS-based change detection. This latest is implemented with masks exported from information contained in the UrbIS database. Main changes are well detected, though a number of "false changes" is detected and remain significant. Solutions to reduce the number of false alarms will be investigated through the application of post-classification rules.
THE EFFECTS OF INSTRUCTIONAL METHOD ON PRESERVICE TEACHERS' LEARNING, COGNITIVE PROCESSES, AND DECISION-MAKING SKILLS

This dissertation is a study of case-based instruction in early childhood teacher preparation. I sought to determine if case-based instruction could be used effectively to develop theoretical knowledge, cognitive processes, and decision-making skills in preservice early childhood teachers, and if case-based instruction provided any measurable benefit over more efficient traditional didactic instructional practices. Results indicate case-based instruction can enhance preservice early childhood teachers’ learning of theoretical knowledge when used in combination with standard textbook readings and conventional multiple-choice and essay examinations. Findings also indicate case-based instruction may differentially impact students with different levels of prior knowledge. Some data suggest traditional didactic instructional can positively impact preservice teachers’ cognitive processes and decision-making skills. Results also indicate case-based instruction may facilitate consolidation of misconceptions held by early childhood preservice teachers.
Quality of Health Care in the United States: Implications for Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease

The Institute of Medicine's publications To Error is Human and Crossing the Quality Chasm publicized the widespread deficits in US health care quality. Emerging studies continue to reveal deficits in the quality of adult and pediatric care, including subspecialty care. In recent years, key stakeholders in the health care system including providers, purchasers, and the public have been applying various quality improvement methods to address these concerns. Lessons learned from these efforts in other pediatric conditions, including asthma, cystic fibrosis, neonatal intensive care, and liver transplantation may be applicable to the care of children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This review is intended to be a primer on the quality of care movement in the United States, with a focus on pediatric IBD. In this article, we review the history, rationale, and methods of quality measurement and improvement, and we discuss the unique challenges in adapting these general strategies to pediatric IBD care.
Physiological and Performance Effects of Generic versus Specific Aerobic Training in Soccer Players

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of specific (small-sided games) vs. generic (running) aerobic interval training on physical fitness and objective measures of match performance in soccer. Forty junior players were randomly assigned to either generic (n=20) or specific (n=20) interval training consisting of 4 bouts of 4 min at 90-95 % of maximum heart rate with 3 min active rest periods, completed twice a week. The following outcomes were measured at baseline (Pre), after 4 weeks of pre-season training (Mid), and after a further 8 weeks of training during the regular season (Post): maximum oxygen uptake, lactate threshold (Tlac), running economy at Tlac, a soccer-specific endurance test (Ekblom's circuit), and indices of physical performance during soccer matches (total distance and time spent standing, walking, and at low- and high-intensity running speed). Training load, as quantified by heart rate and rating of perceived exertion, was recorded during all training sessions and was similar between groups. There were significant improvements in aerobic fitness and match performance in both groups of soccer players, especially in response to the first 4 weeks of pre-season training. However, no significant differences between specific and generic aerobic interval training were found in any of the measured variables including soccer specific tests. The results of this study showed that both small-sided games and running are equally effective modes of aerobic interval training in junior soccer players.
Comparison of Multi-Drug Resistant Environmental Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Recreational Beaches and High Touch Surfaces in Built Environments

Over the last decade community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has emerged as a major cause of disease in the general population with no health care exposure or known classical risk factors for MRSA infections. The potential community reservoirs have not been well defined though certain strains such as ST398 and USA300 have been well studied in some settings. MRSA has been isolated from recreational beaches, high-touch surfaces in homes, universities, and other community environmental surfaces. However, in most cases the strains were not characterized to determine if they are related to community-acquired or hospital-acquired clinical strains. We compared 55 environmental MRSA from 805 samples including sand, fresh, and marine water samples from local marine and fresh water recreational beaches (n = 296), high touch surfaces on the University of Washington campus (n = 294), surfaces in UW undergraduate housing (n = 85), and the local community (n = 130). Eleven USA300, representing 20% of the isolates, were found on the UW campus surfaces, student housing surfaces, and on the community surfaces but not in the recreational beach samples from the Northwest USA. Similarly, the predominant animal ST133 was found in the recreational beach samples but not in the high touch surface samples. All USA300 isolates were multi-drug resistant carrying two to six different antibiotic resistance genes coding for kanamycin, macrolides and/or macrolides-lincosamides-streptogramin B, and tetracycline, with the majority (72%) carrying four to six different antibiotic resistance genes. A surprising 98% of the 55 MRSA isolates were resistant to other classes of antibiotics and most likely represent reservoirs for these genes in the environment.
Upregulation of miR-23a∼27a∼24-2 Cluster Induces Caspase-Dependent and -Independent Apoptosis in Human Embryonic Kidney Cells

miRNAs have emerged as important players in the regulation of gene expression and their deregulation is a common feature in a variety of diseases, especially cancer. Currently, many efforts are focused on studying miRNA expression patterns, as well as miRNA target validation. Here, we show that the over expression of miR-23a∼27a∼24-2 cluster in HEK293T cells induces apoptosis by caspase-dependent as well as caspase-independent pathway as proved by the annexin assay, caspase activation, release of cytochrome-c and AIF (apoptosis inducing factor) from mitochondria. Furthermore, the over expressed cluster modulates the expression of a number of genes involved in apoptosis including FADD (Fas Associated protein with Death Domain). Bioinformatically, FADD is predicted to be the target of hsa-miR-27a and interestingly, FADD protein was found to be up regulated consistent with very less expression of hsa-miR-27a in HEK293T cells. This effect was direct, as hsa-miR-27a negatively regulated the expression of FADD 3′UTR based reporter construct. Moreover, we also showed that over expression of miR-23a∼27a∼24-2 sensitized HEK293T cells to TNF-α cytotoxicity. Taken together, our study demonstrates that enhanced TNF-α induced apoptosis in HEK293T cells by over expression of miR-23a∼27a∼24-2 cluster provides new insights in the development of novel therapeutics for cancer.