Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A COSMIC-RAY PRECURSOR MODEL FOR A BALMER-DOMINATED SHOCK IN TYCHO'S SUPERNOVA REMNANT

We present a time-dependent cosmic-ray (CR) modified shock model for which the calculated Hα emissivity profile agrees well with the Hα flux increase ahead of the Balmer-dominated shock at knot g in Tycho's supernova remnant (SNR), observed by Lee et al. The backreaction of the CR component on the thermal component is treated in the two-fluid approximation, and we include thermal particle injection and energy transfer due to the acoustic instability in the precursor. The transient state of our model that describes the current state of the shock at knot g occurs during the evolution from a thermal gas dominated shock to a smooth CR-dominated shock. Assuming a distance of 2.3 kpc to Tycho's remnant, we obtain values for the CR diffusion coefficient, κ, the injection parameter, ϵ, and the timescale for the energy transfer, τ, of κ = 2 × 1024 cm2 s−1, ϵ = 4.2 × 10−3, and τ = 426 yr, respectively. We have also studied the parameter space for fast (300 km s−1 ≲ vs ≲ 3000 km s−1), time-asymptotically steady shocks and have identified a branch of solutions, for which the temperature in the CR precursor typically reaches 2 × 104 to 6 × 104 K and the bulk acceleration of the flow through the precursor is less than 10 km s−1. These solutions fall into the low CR acceleration efficiency regime and are relatively insensitive to shock parameters. This low CR acceleration efficiency branch of solutions may provide a natural explanation for the line broadening of the Hα narrow component observed in nonradiative shocks in many SNRs.
Free-hand pointing for identification and interaction with distant objects

In this paper, we investigate pointing as a lightweight form of gestural interaction in cars. In a pre-study, we show the technical feasibility of reliable pointing detection with a depth camera by achieving a recognition rate of 96% in the lab. In a subsequent in-situ study, we let drivers point to objects inside and outside of the car while driving through a city. In three usage scenarios, we studied how this influenced their driving objectively, as well as subjectively. Distraction from the driving task was compensated by a regulation of driving speed and did not have a negative influence on driving behaviour. Our participants considered pointing a desirable interaction technique in comparison to current controller-based interaction and identified a number of additional promising use cases for pointing in the car.
Assessment centers and the measurement of personality

Although personality constructs are now widely accepted as being important for understanding work behavior, self-report personality tests as a method of assessment are not without their critics (e.g., Morgeson et al., 2007). Whether misguided or not, concerns persist regarding the validity of these measures and the issue of applicant faking has yet to be fully resolved (Tett & Christiansen, 2007). Moreover, applicant reactions tend to be less favorable for personality inventories than many other assessments commonly used in employment settings (Hausknecht, Day, & Thomas, 2004). To some, self-report inventories may be a poor way to assess personality traits, and yet such inventories are the method most often used to assess these constructs. This trend goes well beyond the area of Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Consistently across the field of psychological measurement, personality is rarely formally assessed by directly observing a person’s behavior (Baumeister, Vohs, & Funder, 2007; for more coverage of personality assessment at work based on observer reports, see Chapter 20, this volume). An exception to the practice of relying exclusively on the results of paper-and-pencil or computerized personality tests is the processes involved in assessment centers (ACs). ACs are composed of multiple moderate to high fidelity simulations of critical job tasks and situations (exercises) where trained raters observe candidates’ behavior, and the resulting ratings are used for development or selection purposes. Most often associated with the assessment of managers, the dimensions used to organize the behavioral observations are often aligned to the results of a job analysis or a competency model rather than to any established taxonomy of individual differences. Despite the difference in methods typically used to derive personality traits and AC dimensions, there is obvious overlap in the behavioral domains of each type of construct (e.g., Lievens, De Fruyt, & Van Dam, 2001). Although personality is not usually explicitly measured in ACs, the relationship between personality and candidate behavior in ACs is intuitive. AC exercises present the opportunity to express a variety of behaviors that are likely a reflection of candidates’ personality tendencies (along with abilities and skills). Those individual traits that describe behavior across many other situations should also manifest in an AC. Furthermore, AC assessors are often quick to describe AC candidates in trait terms that any personality psychologist would recognize (Gaugler & Thornton, 1989; Lievens et al., 2001). However, despite the similarities between AC behavior and personality dispositions, social and personality psychologists long ago learned that inferential errors can lead individuals to make dispositional attributions where trait inferences are at times without foundation (Funder, 1999). Rather than relying on anecdotal observations, theory and research are needed to understand how personality relates to AC processes and outcomes.
Distortion

The three main types of distortion which may occur in audio amplifiers-non-linear distortion, frequency distortion and phase distortion-are described together with their causes and effects. A discussion on wave analysers indicates the suitability of the heterodyne type for audio measurements. The principle of operation of the TF 2330 Wave Analyser which includes a synchronously tuned beat frequency oscillator is described. Methods of measurement using the TF2330 are suggested for all three types of distortion. DISTORTION occurs, to a certain extent, in all audio frequency amplifiers. The quality of reproduction depends very largely upon the degree of distortion and thus, to assess this, the distortion has to be measured. Several kinds of distortion are likely to occur but they may all be grouped under three main headings, non-linear distortion, frequency distortion and phase distortion. Five modified versions of the 35 Mc Is measuring oscilloscope type TF 2200 have been produced to suit special applications. The additional facilities offered include sine2 pulse and bar testing of television equipment, single shot triggering of the delaying time base, extra control of fine delay for use with the delaying time base in the gated mode, and versatile external triggering of the delaying time base independently of the main time base. oscilloscope' for the display and of many types of waveform. A modified TF995A/2 F.M. /A.M. Signal Generator is described which in conjunction with a stereo modulation generator provides an f.m. stereo signal. This meets the requirements of the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (F.C.C.) for an f.m. transmitter using the GE -Zenith F.M. Stereo system. A transistorized frequency converter is described which extends the frequency range of the Counter/Frequency Meter, TF 1417, from 10 Mc/s up to 510 Mc/s. The instrument is in two sections: the 10-110 Mc/s Converter, TF 2400, with a sensitivity of 10 mV; and the 100-500 Mc/s Converter, TM 7164, which is an optional accessory fitting into the TF 2400 case and giving a sensitivity of 100 mV up to 510 Mc/s. Tills 10-510 Mc/s Converter was designed primarily to extend the frequency range of the Counter/Frequency Meter, TF 1417, up to 510 Mc/s, but it may be used with any similar 10 Mc/s Counter/Frequency Meter which provides a suitable standard 1 Mc/s drive.
Statistics of Fluctuations in the Solar Soft X-Ray Emission

X-ray emission from the Sun fluctuates as a result of occasional flare events. We have calculated the power spectra of the solar soft X-ray variations using the photometric data of the GOES 6 satellite. The data cover the period 1991 September to 1994 April, about 32 months in total, and we have worked with 10 minute averages. We find that the total power spectral densities (PSDs) have three distinct components; a flat or slightly decreasing low-frequency section, a 1/f-like moderate decline medium-frequency section, and steep decline high-frequency parts. The break frequencies separating three parts are fbreak ≃ 10-4.7 Hz and 10-3.8 Hz , respectively. Such downward breaks are expected from the shot-noise (flarelike) character of solar X-ray emission, and we interpret the lower break frequency as indicating an upper limit on flare timescales. These break frequencies do not vary appreciably with activity level. This suggests the existence of a universal mechanism for triggering flares in the solar corona. Moreover, the power-law index (where we assume PSD ∝ f-β, f being frequency) of each part does not vary appreciably with the level of activity either; its average is β ≃ 0.45, 0.95, and 1.5, respectively. The overall shape of the PSD is quite similar to those of other astrophysical objects such as black hole candidate stars and active galactic nuclei, albeit on a vastly different scale.
Inflatable mouse: volume-adjustable mouse with air-pressure-sensitive input and haptic feedback

Inflatable Mouse is a volume-adjustable user interface. It can be inflated up to the volume of a familiar mouse, but be deflated and stored flat in a PC card slot of a laptop computer when not in use. Inflatable Mouse functions just like a typical mouse; moreover, it provides new interaction techniques by sensing the air pressure in the balloon of the mouse. It also addresses some issues associated with pressure-sensing interactions such as the lack of bi-directional input and the lack of effective feedback. Moreover, it can be used as both a control tool and a display tool. In this paper, the design of an Inflatable Mouse prototype is described and potential application scenarios such as zooming in/out and fast scrolling using pressure control are explained. We also discuss the potential use of Inflatable Mouse as an emotional communication tool.
MAJOR STRUCTURES OF THE INNER GALAXY DELINEATED BY 6.7 GHz METHANOL MASERS

We explore the longitude–velocity distribution of 6.7 GHz methanol masers in the context of the inner structure of our Galaxy. We analyze the correlation in velocities within this distribution and identify density enhancements indicating large-scale regions of enhanced star formation. These are interpreted as the starting points of the spiral arms and the interaction of the Galactic bar with the 3 kpc arms. The methanol masers support the presence of a long thin bar with a 45° orientation. Signatures of the full 3 kpc arm structure are seen, including a prominent tangent at approximately −22° Galactic longitude. We compare this distribution with existing models of the gas dynamics of our Galaxy. The 3 kpc arm structure appears likely to correspond to the radius of corotation resonance of the bar, with the bar on its inner surface and the starting points of the spiral arms on its outer surface.
Compassion Fatigue is Similar in Emergency Medicine Residents Compared to other Medical and Surgical Specialties

Introduction Compassion fatigue (CF) is the emotional and physical burden felt by those helping others in distress, leading to a reduced capacity and interest in being empathetic towards future suffering. Emergency care providers are at an increased risk of CF secondary to their first responder roles and exposure to traumatic events. We aimed to investigate the current state of compassion fatigue among emergency medicine (EM) resident physicians, including an assessment of contributing factors. Methods We distributed a validated electronic questionnaire consisting of the Professional Quality of Life Scale with subscales for the three components of CF (compassion satisfaction, burnout and secondary traumatic stress), with each category scored independently. We collected data pertaining to day- versus night-shift distribution, hourly workload and child dependents. We included residents in EM, neurology, orthopedics, family medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, and general surgery. Results We surveyed 255 residents, with a response rate of 75%. Of the 188 resident respondents, 18% worked a majority of their clinical shifts overnight, and 32% had child dependents. Burnout scores for residents who worked greater than 80 hours per week, or primarily worked overnight shifts, were higher than residents who worked less than 80 hours (mean score 25.0 vs 21.5; p=0.013), or did not work overnight (mean score 23.5 vs 21.3; p=0.022). EM residents had similar scores in all three components of CF when compared to other specialties. Secondary traumatic stress scores for residents who worked greater than 80 hours were higher than residents who worked less than 80 hours (mean score 22.2 vs 19.5; p=0.048), and those with child dependents had higher secondary traumatic stress than those without children (mean score 21.0 vs 19.1; p=0.012). Conclusion CF scores in EM residents are similar to residents in other surgical and medical specialties. Residents working primarily night shifts and those working more than 80 hours per week appear to be at high risk of developing compassion fatigue. Residents with children are more likely to experience secondary traumatic stress.
Livestock-Associated MRSA in Household Members of Pig Farmers: Transmission and Dynamics of Carriage, A Prospective Cohort Study

This prospective cohort study describes carriage of livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) in household members from 49 farrowing pig farms in the Netherlands (2010–2011). Of 171 household members, 4% were persistent MRSA nasal carriers, and the MRSA prevalence on any given sampling moment was 10% (range 7-11%). Working in the stables (of which 98% was MRSA-positive, prevalence ratio (PR) = 2.11 per 10 hours), working with sows (PR=1.97), and living with an MRSA-positive pig farmer (PR=4.63) were significant determinants for MRSA carriage. Significant protective factors were carriage of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) (PR=0.50), and wearing a facemask when working in the stables (37% decreased prevalence). All MRSA strains during the study period were known livestock-associated types. The bacteriophage φ3 was not found in household members. Transmission from pigs and the environment appeared to be important determinants; human-to-human transmission could not sufficiently be differentiated. Wearing a facemask when working in the stables and carriage of MSSA are potential interventional targets.
Beyond Comparison: New Trends in Research With Families with GLB Members in Europe

We credit the expression “beyond comparison” for the title of this special issue to Clarke, Ellis, Peel, and Riggs (2010). These authors have suggested that it is time to abandon the “proving similarity” agenda that has characterized most research with families with lesbian or gay parents. In fact, decades of comparative research have already provided much evidence of similarities between heterosexualand gay/lesbian-parented families (GLPFs) (for updated literature reviews, see Fedewa, Black, & Ahn, 2015; Schneider & Vecho, 2015). Although some of these studies were and still are instrumental in challenging negative assumptions about same-sex families, research can now move beyond this classical comparative paradigm. The diversity of families with GLB members is ready to be fully acknowledged and explored on its own terms. Moreover, psychological processes and specific challenges these families must contend with, such as social discrimination, can increasingly be addressed. This special issue of the Journal of GLBT Family Studies comprises five articles by researchers from four European countries (the United Kingdom, Portugal, France, and Italy) who have used different theoretical frameworks and research methodologies, and have moved beyond a comparative approach. Covered topics comprise the identity of bisexual mothers, attitudes toward same-sex marriage and same-sex adoption, discrimination of GLB youngsters, and the narratives of lesbian mothers. Also included is a review of the book Modern Families: Parents and Children in New Family Forms, by Susan Golombok, an acknowledged key researcher in the field of nontraditional families. As stated before, some authors have claimed the specificity of GLPFs, noting some limitations of the comparative approach. The vast majority of these criticisms originate from areas such as critical psychology or queer studies. Research that has relied on comparative methodologies and focused on desirable psychological outcomes has even been accused of strengthening the existing heteronormativity. According to some authors (e.g., Clarke, 2002), treating negative assumptions about gayand lesbian-parented families as worthy of investigation, particularly with respect to gender and sexuality variables, involuntarily validated these biases.
Causal Sets from Simple Models of Computation

Causality among events is widely recognized as a most fundamental structure of spacetime, and causal sets have been proposed as discrete models of the latter in the context of quantum gravity theories, notably in the Causal Set Programme. In the rather different context of what might be called the 'Computational Universe Programme' -- one which associates the complexity of physical phenomena to the emergent features of models such as cellular automata -- a choice problem arises with respect to the variety of formal systems that, in virtue of their computational universality (Turing-completeness), qualify as equally good candidates for a computational, unified theory of physics. This paper proposes Causal Sets as the only objects of physical significance and relevance to be considered under the 'computational universe' perspective, and as the appropriate abstraction for shielding the unessential details of the many different computationally universal candidate models. At the same time, we propose a fully deterministic, radical alternative to the probabilistic techniques currently considered in the Causal Set Programme for growing discrete spacetimes. We investigate a number of computation models by grouping them into two broad classes, based on the support on which they operate; in one case this is linear, like a tape or a string of symbols; in the other, it is a two-dimensional grid or a planar graph. For each model we identify the causality relation among computation events, implement it, and conduct a possibly exhaustive exploration of the associated causal set space, while examining quantitative and qualitative features such as dimensionality, curvature, planarity, emergence of pseudo-randomness, causal set substructures and particles.
μ-Interaction Measure for Unstable Systems

The requirement that the system and its block diagonal elements have the same unstable poles limits the applicability of μ interaction measure (μ-IM) to stable systems. We propose an extension of the conventional μ-IM to overcome this difficulty. The decentralized controller is designed based on a block diagonal approximation that is different from the block diagonal elements and is selected by minimizing the scaled L∞ distance between the system and the approximation. We also present a simple method for designing the decentralized controller based on the approximation. The proposed method is useful for system stabilization using independent designs of the decentralized controller
A minimalist approach to Remote Attestation

Embedded computing devices increasingly permeate many aspects of modern life: from medical to automotive, from building and factory automation to weapons, from critical infrastructures to home entertainment. Despite their specialized nature as well as limited resources and connectivity, these devices are now becoming an increasingly popular and attractive target for attacks, especially, malware infections. A number of approaches have been suggested to detect and/or mitigate such attacks. They vary greatly in terms of application generality and underlying assumptions. However, one common theme is the need for Remote Attestation, a distinct security service that allows a trusted party (verifier) to check the internal state of a remote untrusted embedded device (prover). Many prior methods assume some form of trusted hardware on the prover, which is not a good option for small and low-end embedded devices. To this end, we investigate the feasibility of Remote Attestation without trusted hardware. This paper provides a systematic treatment of Remote Attestation, starting with a precise definition of the desired service and proceeding to its systematic deconstruction into necessary and sufficient properties. Next, these are mapped into a minimal collection of hardware and software components that result in secure Remote Attestation. One distinguishing feature of this line of research is the need to prove (or, at least argue for) architectural minimality - an aspect rarely encountered in security research. This work also provides a promising platform for attaining more advanced security services and guarantees.
Optimal fusion performance modeling in sensor networks

This paper studies sensor network surveillance performance at the automatic tracker output. In particular, we develop a simple analytical model for tracker performance, where the interest is in a compact representation of the impact of sensor revisit time. This model, combined with a previously developed contact fusion model, allows for an analysis of two fusion architectures: a standard centralized tracking configuration and a ldquofuse-before-trackrdquo two-stage approach. We find that the latter architecture is promising, though in the specific instantiation considered here there are performance limitations when targets are in close proximity. Additionally, in the context of centralized tracking, we study optimal sensor thresholding and sensor network size for a given false track rate.
Smart Beholder: An Open-Source Smart Lens for Mobile Photography

Smart lenses are detachable lenses connected to mobile devices via wireless networks, which are not constrained by the small form factor of mobile devices, and have potential to deliver better photo (video) quality. However, the viewfinder previews of smart lenses on mobile devices are difficult to optimize, due to the strict resource constraints on smart lenses and fluctuating wireless network conditions. In this paper, we design, implement, and evaluate an open-source smart lens, called Smart Beholder. It achieves three design goals: (i) cost effectiveness, (ii) low interaction latency, and (iii) high preview quality by: (i) selecting an embedded system board that is just powerful enough, (ii) minimizing per-component latency, and (iii) dynamically adapting the video coding parameters to maximizing Quality of Experience (QoE), respectively. Several optimization techniques, such as anti-drifting mechanism for video frames and QoE-driven resolution/frame rate adaptation algorithm, are proposed in this paper. Our measurement study shows that Smart Beholder outperforms Altek Cubic and Sony QX100 in terms of lower bitrate, lower latency, slightly higher frame rate, and better preview quality. We also demonstrate that sys adapts to network dynamics. Smart Beholder has been made public at http://www.smartbeholder. org as an experimental platform for researchers and developers to optimize smart lenses and other embedded real-time video streaming systems.