Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Large Scale Strongly Supervised Ensemble Metric Learning, with Applications to Face Verification and Retrieval

Learning Mahanalobis distance metrics in a high- dimensional feature space is very difficult especially when structural sparsity and low rank are enforced to improve com- putational efficiency in testing phase. This paper addresses both aspects by an ensemble metric learning approach that consists of sparse block diagonal metric ensembling and join- t metric learning as two consecutive steps. The former step pursues a highly sparse block diagonal metric by selecting effective feature groups while the latter one further exploits correlations between selected feature groups to obtain an accurate and low rank metric. Our algorithm considers all pairwise or triplet constraints generated from training samples with explicit class labels, and possesses good scala- bility with respect to increasing feature dimensionality and growing data volumes. Its applications to face verification and retrieval outperform existing state-of-the-art methods in accuracy while retaining high efficiency.
Synthesis and mechanical properties of flax fabric reinforced geopolymer composites

Geopolymer composites reinforced with different layers of woven flax fabric are fabricated using lay- up technique. Mechanical properties, such as flexural strength, flexural modulus and fracture toughness of geopolymer composites reinforced with 2.4, 3 and 4.1 wt% flax fibres are studied. The fracture surfaces of the composites are also examined using scanning electron microscopy. The results show that all the mechanical properties of the composites are improved by increasing the flax fibre contents. It is also found that the mechanical properties of flax fabric reinforced geopolymer composites are superior to pure geopolymer matrix. Micro-structural analysis of fracture surface of the composites indicated evidence of various toughening mechanisms by flax fabrics in the composites.
Towards a development process for geospatial information retrieval and search

Geospatial search as a special type of vertical search has specific requirements and challenges. While the general principle of resource discovery, extraction, indexing, and search holds, geospatial search systems are tailored to the specific use case at hand with many individual adaptations. In this short overview, we aim to collect and organize the main organizing principles for the multitude of challenges and adaptations to be considered within the development process to work towards a more formal description.
Multivariate Portmanteau Test For Autoregressive Models with Uncorrelated but Nonindependent Errors

Abstract. We study the asymptotic behaviour of the least squares estimator, of the residual autocorrelations and of the Ljung–Box (or Box–Pierce) portmanteau test statistic for multiple autoregressive time series models with nonindependent innovations. Under mild assumptions, it is shown that the asymptotic distribution of the portmanteau tests is that of a weighted sum of independent chi‐squared random variables. When the innovations exhibit conditional heteroscedasticity or other forms of dependence, this asymptotic distribution can be quite different from that of models with independent and identically distributed innovations. Consequently, the usual chi‐squared distribution does not provide an adequate approximation to the distribution of the Box–Pierce goodness‐of‐fit portmanteau test in the presence of nonindependent innovations. Hence we propose a method to adjust the critical values of the portmanteau tests. Monte carlo experiments illustrate the finite sample performance of the modified portmanteau test.
Peerwise: replication study of a student-collaborative self-testing web service in a u.s. setting

PeerWise is a collaborative web-based system that engages students in the creation and evaluation of a test bank of multiple-choice questions. Previous studies involving two large CS1 courses in New Zealand have provided preliminary evidence that PeerWise usage is positively correlated with exam performance. In addition, it was reported that the student generated assessment questions were mostly free from errors and were clearly written, and the students appeared to positively value the system. Here we report on the first use of PeerWise in a CS1.5 course (second programming course) in the United States. Although the usage model was modified slightly to accommodate pedagogical factors, we highlight similar positive outcomes to those observed in New Zealand. Of particular note, students who were most active using PeerWise improved their rank in class relative to their peers who were less active.
Medication adherence in type 2 diabetes patients: study of patients in Alimosho General Hospital, Igando, Lagos, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND Poor adherence is an obstacle in therapeutic control of diabetes. Despite the advances in the treatment of diabetes mellitus over the years, diabetes places an immense burden on the individuals living with the condition, their families and the overall health care system. OBJECTIVE Evaluation of the impact of medication adherence on the clinical outcomes of type 2 diabetes patients at Alimosho general hospital, Igando Lagos state. METHOD The medication adherence study was both descriptive (retrospective) and prospective. The retrospective study assessed the prevalence of medication non-adherence leading to poor glycemic control. This involved the review of case notes of one-hundred and fifty two randomly selected patients. Prospective study was done by counselling and educating the patients on medication adherence and assessing their medication adherence and the impact of medication adherence on glycemic control. RESULTS The proportions of females/males with type 2 DM was found to be 69% and 31% respectively. 51.32% of these patients viewed their medications to be unaffordable. 56.6% of the patient population were 61 years and above in age. There was a significant relationship between patient age, gender and adherence to medication. There was however no significant P ≥ 0.05 association between educational level and adherence. Health education and counselling resulted in adherence rate and clinical parameters improvements. CONCLUSION Non-adherence is a major factor that could lead to morbidity and mortality in diabetic patients. The overall improvement in adherence rate of 86.8% was observed with a decline in non- adherence rate after interventions.
Comment: Understanding OR, PS and DR

We congratulate Kang and Schafer (KS) on their ex cellent article comparing various estimators of a popu lation mean in the presence of missing data, and thank the Editor for organizing the discussion. In this com munication, we systematically examine the propen sity score (PS) and the outcome regression (OR) ap proaches and doubly robust (DR) estimation, which are all discussed by KS. The aim is to clarify and better our understanding of the three interrelated subjects. Sections 1 and 2 contain the following main points, respectively.
Comparative analysis of waveforms for fifth generation mobile networks

New requirements for fifth generation mobile networks (5G) have triggered the search of the waveforms beyond Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM). In recent years, many waveforms that are primarily the different form of filtered multi-carrier transmission techniques, have been proposed for 5G systems. Each has its own merits and demerits. The results are presented in comparison to OFDM and different operating condition. Further their system parameters widely differ. In this article, we aim to provide the comparative performance analysis of these waveforms in a unified manner whereby one can readily get a relative performance of the schemes on a common platform. The performance metrics used in the study are out of band (OoB) leakage power, peak to average power ratio (PAPR), bit error rate (BER) performance over a wireless channel, effect of carrier frequency offset (CFO) and spectral efficiency. The results are expected to help in selecting appropriate waveform for next generation mobile communication system.
Further Evidence for Variable Synchrotron Emission in XTE J1118+480 in Outburst

We present simultaneous multicolor infrared and optical photometry of the black hole X-ray transient XTE J1118+480 during its short 2005 January outburst, supported by simultaneous X-ray observations. The variability is dominated by short timescales, ~10 s, although a weak superhump also appears to be present in the optical. The optical rapid variations, at least, are well correlated with those in X-rays. Infrared JHKs photometry, as in the previous outburst, exhibits especially large-amplitude variability. The spectral energy distribution (SED) of the variable infrared component can be fitted with a power law of slope α = -0.78 ± 0.07, where Fν ∝ να. There is no compelling evidence for evolution in the slope over five nights, during which time the source brightness decayed along almost the same track as seen in variations within the nights. We conclude that both short-term variability and longer timescale fading are dominated by a single component of constant spectral shape. We cannot fit the SED of the IR variability with a credible thermal component, either optically thick or thin. This IR SED is, however, approximately consistent with optically thin synchrotron emission from a jet. These observations therefore provide indirect evidence to support jet-dominated models for XTE J1118+480 and also provide a direct measurement of the slope of the optically thin emission, which is impossible, based on the average spectral energy distribution alone.
Assessing self-efficacy to reduce one's drinking: further evaluation of the Alcohol Reduction Strategies-Current Confidence questionnaire.

AIMS To evaluate the psychometric properties of a previously published questionnaire designed to assess young drinkers' self-efficacy to employ 31 cognitive-behavioral alcohol reduction strategies. METHODS Undergraduates (n = 353) recruited from a large Midwestern university completed the previously published Alcohol Reduction Strategies-Current Confidence questionnaire (and other measures) for a self-selected heavy drinking setting. RESULTS Item loadings from a principal components analysis, a high internal consistency reliability coefficient, and a moderate mean inter-item correlation suggested that all 31 items comprised a single scale. Correlations of questionnaire scores with selected aspects of drinking history and personality provided support for criterion and discriminant validity, respectively. Women reported higher current confidence to use these strategies than did men, but current confidence did not vary as a function of recent binge status. CONCLUSION Given this further demonstration of its psychometric qualities, this questionnaire holds promise as a clinical tool to identify clients who lack confidence in their ability to employ cognitive-behavioral coping strategies to reduce their drinking.
A Comparison of Vibrational Spectroscopic Methods for Analyzing Wool/Polyester Textile Blends

Vibrational spectroscopic techniques of FT-Raman, mid-infrared attenuated total reflec tance, mid-infrared diffuse reflectance, and near infrared diffuse reflectance are investigated for the quantitative analysis of wool/polyester textile blends. Data sets based on undyed fabric samples are analyzed using both classical least squares and partial least squares approaches. The PLS calibrations based on the ATR and first derivative NIR data are superior with standard errors of cross validation less than 1.5. A validation set consisting of samples extremely different from those in the training set gives standard errors of prediction of 5.2 and 2.4, respectively. These models are used to analyze blended batts and washed fabric samples. Useful results can be obtained independent of such parameters as sample structure and coloration. The complementary nature of these techniques makes their combination valuable as an industrial quality control, monitoring, and trouble shooting tool.
Evaluation and Biocompatibility of a New Type of Scaffold for Tissue Growth Based on Calcium Phosphate Cement

Growth of cells in three-dimensional porous scaffolds has gaining importance in the field of tissue engineering. The scaffolds guide cellular growth, synthesize extra-cellular matrix and other biological molecules, and make the formation of tissues and functional organs easier. The aim of this work was to use α-TCP (α-tricalcium phosphate) cement in order to obtain such scaffolds, with the aid of paraffin spheres as pores generators. These spheres were produced by suspension in an aqueous solution of polyvinylalcohol (PVA) and sodium sulphate (Na2SO4). The porosity of the scaffolds produced with paraffin spheres was analyzed and compared to the literature, and the study of scaffolds permeability using Forchenheimer equation allowed the analysis of pores interconnectivity. In vitro tests showed the behavior of scaffolds in solutions of SBF (Simulated Body Fluid), and viability and cell proliferation were also evaluated. Use of paraffin spheres showed to be appropriate to the formation of pores suitable size to allow cellular growth.
Effects of heme oxygenase-1 on innate and adaptive immune responses promoting pregnancy success and allograft tolerance

The heme-degrading enzyme heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) has cytoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, HO-1 is reportedly involved in suppressing destructive immune responses associated with inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and allograft rejection. During pregnancy, maternal tolerance to foreign fetal antigens is a prerequisite for successful embryo implantation and fetal development. Here, HO-1 has been implicated in counteracting the overwhelming inflammatory immune responses towards fetal allo-antigens, thereby contributing to fetal acceptance. Accordingly, HO-1 ablation negatively impacts the critical steps of pregnancy such as fertilization, implantation, placentation, and fetal growth. In the present review, we summarize recent data on the immune modulatory capacity of HO-1 towards allo-antigens expressed by the semi-allogeneic fetus and organ allografts. In this regard, HO-1 has been shown to promote alloantigen tolerance by blocking dendritic cell maturation resulting in reduced T cell responses and increased numbers of regulatory T cells. Moreover, HO-1 is suggested to shift the uterine cytokine milieu towards a protective Th2 profile and protects fetal tissue from apoptosis by upregulating anti-apoptotic molecules. Thus, HO-1 is not only a pivotal regulator of the initial steps of pregnancy; but also, an important player in supporting the maternal immune system in tolerating the fetus.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) Guideline

This Guideline is an official statement of the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE). The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system 1 2 was adopted to define the strength of recommendations and the quality of evidence. Main recommendations 1 ESGE recommends endoscopic en bloc resection for superficial esophageal squamous cell cancers (SCCs), excluding those with obvious submucosal involvement (strong recommendation, moderate quality evidence). Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) may be considered in such lesions when they are smaller than 10 mm if en bloc resection can be assured. However, ESGE recommends endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) as the first option, mainly to provide an en bloc resection with accurate pathology staging and to avoid missing important histological features (strong recommendation, moderate quality evidence). 2 ESGE recommends endoscopic resection with a curative intent for visible lesions in Barrett’s esophagus (strong recommendation, moderate quality evidence). ESD has not been shown to be superior to EMR for excision of mucosal cancer, and for that reason EMR should be preferred. ESD may be considered in selected cases, such as lesions larger than 15 mm, poorly lifting tumors, and lesions at risk for submucosal invasion (strong recommendation, moderate quality evidence). 3 ESGE recommends endoscopic resection for the treatment of gastric superficial neoplastic lesions that possess a very low risk of lymph node metastasis (strong recommendation, high quality evidence). EMR is an acceptable option for lesions smaller than 10 – 15 mm with a very low probability of advanced histology (Paris 0-IIa). However, ESGE recommends ESD as treatment of choice for most gastric superficial neoplastic lesions (strong recommendation, moderate quality evidence). 4 ESGE states that the majority of colonic and rectal superficial lesions can be effectively removed in a curative way by standard polypectomy and/or by EMR (strong recommendation, moderate quality evidence). ESD can be considered for removal of colonic and rectal lesions with high suspicion of limited submucosal invasion that is based on two main criteria of depressed morphology and irregular or nongranular surface pattern, particularly if the lesions are larger than 20 mm; or ESD can be considered for colorectal lesions that otherwise cannot be optimally and radically removed by snare-based techniques (strong recommendation, moderate quality evidence).
Resolved Spectroscopy of the Narrow-Line Region in NGC 1068: Kinematics of the Ionized Gas

We have determined the radial velocities of the [O III]-emitting gas in the inner narrow-line region of the Seyfert 2 galaxy NGC 1068, along a slit at position angle 202°, from STIS observations at a spatial resolution of 0. ″1 and a spectral resolving power of λ/Δλ ≈ 1000. We use these data to investigate the kinematics of the narrow-line region within 6'' (~430 pc) of the nucleus. The emission-line knots show evidence for radial acceleration to a projected angular distance of 1. ″7 in most cases, followed by deceleration that approaches the systemic velocity at a projected distance of ~4''. We find that a simple kinematic model of biconical radial outflow can match the general trend of observed radial velocities. In this model, the emitting material is evacuated along the bicone axis, and the axis is inclined 5° out of the plane of the sky. The acceleration of the emission-line clouds provides support for dynamical models that invoke radiation and/or wind pressure. We suggest that the deceleration of the clouds is due to their collision with a patchy and anistropically distributed ambient medium.
Effect of Organo-modified Layered Silicates on the Properties of Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) Nanocomposites

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)/layered silicate nanocomposites were prepared using melt intercalation technique. Commercially modified nanoclays such as Cloisite 30B (C30B), Cloisite 20A (C20A), and Bentone 109 (B109) have been used as organoclays for the preparation of nanocomposites. PMMA matrix has been grafted with maleic anhydride to modify the interfacial region and improve the interfacial adhesion between organoclays and PMMA matrix. Mechanical tests revealed an increase in the tensile modulus of PMMA/C30B (5%) nanocomposite to about 35% as compared to virgin PMMA matrix. Thermal measurements employing differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis also showed improved thermal stability and marginal increase in Tg of PMMA matrix with the incorporation of nanoclays. Wide angle X-ray diffractograms revealed an increase in d-spacing of C30B nanoclay from 18.5 to 39.4 Å in PMMA/C30B nanocomposites, thus confirming intercalated structure. The dispersion characteristics of organoclay within PMMA matrix was also investigated using transmission electron microscopy. Furthermore, dynamic mechanical analysis shows a substantial increase in storage modulus of PMMA matrix with the incorporation of organoclays. Additionally, an improved fire retardancy of PMMA was also observed in PMMA/B109 (5 wt%) nanocomposites with an evidence of reduced horizontal rate of burning.
Effectiveness of a Web-Based Tailored Intervention With Virtual Assistants Promoting the Acceptability of HPV Vaccination Among Mothers of Invited Girls: Randomized Controlled Trial

Background In 2010, the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination was introduced in the Dutch National Immunization Program for 12-year-old girls, aiming to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer in women. HPV vaccination uptake turned out to be lower than expected: 61% versus 70%, respectively. Mothers were shown to play the most important role in the immunization decision about this vaccination. They had also expressed their need for interactive personal information about the HPV vaccination over and above the existing universal general information. To improve the effectiveness of the existing education about the HPV vaccination, we systematically developed a Web-based tailored intervention with virtual assistants providing mothers of girls to be invited with tailored feedback on their decision making about the HPV vaccination. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Web-based tailored intervention for promoting HPV vaccination acceptance by means of a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Methods Mothers were recruited via the Dutch vaccination register (Praeventis) (n=36,000) and three Web-based panels (n=2483). Those who gave informed consent (N=8062) were randomly assigned to the control (n=4067) or intervention condition (n=3995). HPV vaccination uptake, as registered by Praeventis once the HPV vaccination round was completed, was used as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were differential scores across conditions between baseline (before the provided access to the new tailored intervention) and follow-up (just before the first vaccination) regarding the mothers’ degree of informed decision making (IDM), decisional conflict, and critical determinants of HPV vaccination uptake among which are intention, attitude, risk perception, and outcome beliefs. Results Intention-to-treat analysis (N=8062) showed a significant positive effect of the intervention on IDM, decisional conflict, and nearly all determinants of HPV vaccination uptake (P<.001). No effect was found on uptake (P=.60). This may be attributed to the overall high uptake rates in both conditions. Mothers evaluated the intervention as highly positive, including the website as well as the virtual assistants that were used to deliver the tailored feedback. Conclusions This computer-tailored intervention has the potential to improve HPV vaccination acceptability and IDM and to decrease decisional conflict among mothers of invited girls. Implications for future research are discussed. Trial Registration Trialregister.nl NTR4935; http://www.trialregister. nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp? TC=4935 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6srT7l9EM)