Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Comparison of IRIS Image Compression using JPEG 2000 and SPIHT algorithm

Biometric recognition is a common and reliable way to authenticate the identity of the person. Iris recognition is an automated method of biometric identification that uses mathematical pattern-recognition techniques on images of the irides of an individual's eyes. With the growing employment of the iris recognition systems and associated research to support this, the need for large databases of iris images is growing. If the required storage space is not adequate for these images, compression is an alternative. JPEG standard cannot fulfil the advanced requirements of today's digital imagery. Digital imaging has become an integral part of the Internet and JPEG 2000 is a powerful new tool that provides power capabilities for designers and users of networked image applications. SPIHT algorithm is a very efficient technique for wavelet image compression. This is based on Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT). SPIHT is an improved and extended version of Embedded Zero tree Wavelet (EZW) coding algorithm. In this paper parameters like compression ratio, signal to noise ratio, average bit rate are obtained for both these algorithms and compared.
CS 224 N Final Project Boost up ! Sentiment Categorization with Machine Learning Techniques

We address the problem of categorizing documents by overall sentiment into two classes (i.e. positive or negative) and into multiple classes (e.g. one to five stars). We apply machine learning techniques to categorize a data set of movie reviews. In particular, we use a boosting algorithm. For determining the polarity of a review, we found that the algorithm has an interpretation similar to previous work in sentiment analysis, yet it achieves better accuracy in a more efficient way. Similar results can be seen when we apply the techniques to the multi-class categorization task. Without explicitly using the relationships of different labels during training, our classifier can discover the sentiment affinity between categories.
First Trimester Diagnosis of VACTERL Association

VACTERL association (OMIM 192350) is a non-random combination of multiple congenital malformations including vertebral, anal, cardiac, tracheoesophageal, renal and limb anomalies. The wide spectrum of defects suggests the occurrence of defective development during early embryogenesis. The authors report a case of a complex polymalformative association detected by ultrasound in the first trimester of pregnancy. The ensuing fetal study revealed the presence of vertebral, anorectal, renal and limb anomalies and therefore was considered a case of VACTERL association. This complex association generally entails a poor prognosis. Its early detection allows discussion of management options, including medical termination of pregnancy.
Limited Dual Path Execution

This work presents a h ybrid branch predictor scheme that uses a limited form of dual path e xecution along with dynamic branch prediction to impro ve execution times. The ability to execute down both paths of a conditional branch enables the branch penalty to be minimized; ho wever, relying exclusively on dual path e xecution is infeasible due because instruction fetch rates f ar exceed the capability of the pipeline to retire a single branch before others must be processed. By using confidence information, available in the dynamic branch prediction state tables, a limited form of dual path e xecution becomes feasible. Thisreduces the b urden on the branch predictor by allo wing predictions of lo w confidence to be avoided. In this study we present a ne w approach to g ather branch prediction confidence with little or no overhead, and use this confidence mechanism to determine whether dual path e xecu ion or branch prediction should be used. Comparing this h ybrid predictor model to the dynamic branch predictor sho ws a dramatic decrease in misprediction rate, which translates to an reduction in runtime of o v r 20%. These results imply that dual path e x cution, which often is thought to be an e xc ssi vely resource consuming method, may be a w orthy approach if restricted with an appropriate predicting set. 1. Intr oduction Changes in control flo w (branches) are a well-kno wn impediment to high performance. And as pipelines deepen and issue widths increase, this problem is increasing in importance. The penalty for fetching down the wrong path (the branch mispredict penalty) is becoming a substantial fraction of o verall performance loss. One way to eliminate the branch mispredict penalty is to a v id fetching down the wrong path.This fact has led to e xtensi ve work on improving the quality of branch predictors in order to allo w the processor to speculati vely execute past branches with a high de gree of confidence. Another way to avoid paying the branch mispredict penalty is to fetch instructions from both the f all-through and tar get locations, guar anteeing that the machine is e xecuting the correct stream of instructions. This approach is not ne w the IBM 3168 and 3033 mainframes used a similar approach back in the late 1970’ s (instructions were fetched from both paths, b ut the instructions from only one path could be decoded and e xecut d) [1]. Unfortunately, giv en the known distribution of branch instructions and the number of instructions that are often "in flight" in a current processor , it is inevitable that another branch instruction will be encountered by one (or both) of the streams before the initial branch condition is resolv ed. Proiding sufficient resources to continue to split and fetch on each of these ne w branches can clearly lead to a
Overlay Multicast In Mobile Ad-hoc Networks Using Araneola

Araneola, a system for scalable reliable multicast in dynamic wired network environments, exploits the good properties of random regular graphs (high connectivity and diameter that grows logarithmically with network size), to provide reliable, scalable and efficient message dissemination.We investigate the suitability of Araneola’s probabilistic overlay creation and deterministic data dissemination mechanism in the wireless ad-hoc environment. Araneola relies on a membership view tracking mechanism. Existing partial view membership protocols for the wired networks do not adapt to the limited ad-hoc connectivity and do not efficiently utilize the resource constraint medium. Hence, we replace the LPB-like membership track algorithm with the route-driven view mechanism of a a rudimentary gossip protocol (RDG), which associates a view with the route state of a reactive routing protocol. In addition, we build an Araneola-based protocol that relies on ad-hoc link-state routing and LPB-like view acquisition. We perform numerous modifications on the base Araneola to allow it to cope with the idiosyncrasies of the mobile wireless environment. We perform extensive simulation-based evaluation of our approach in environments with both multicast and unicast traffic. We compare it to application layer gossip and to link-level flooding. The experimental results enable us to determine the range of ad-hoc network configurations in which deterministic overlay flooding is a plausible application layer multicast technique.
A Nongray Theory of Extrasolar Giant Planets and Brown Dwarfs

We present the results of a new series of nongray calculations of the atmospheres, spectra, colors, and evolution of extrasolar giant planets (EGPs) and brown dwarfs for effective temperatures below 1300 K. This theory encompasses most of the mass/age parameter space occupied by substellar objects and is the first spectral study down to 100 K. These calculations are in aid of the multitude of searches being conducted or planned around the world for giant planets and brown dwarfs and reveal the exotic nature of the class. Generically, absorption by H2 at longer wavelengths and H2O opacity windows at shorter wavelengths conspire to redistribute flux blueward. Below 1200 K, methane is the dominant carbon bearing molecule and is a universal diagnostic feature of EGP and brown dwarf spectra. We find that the primary bands in which to search are Z (~1.05 μm), J (~1.2 μm), H (~1.6 μm), K (~2.2 μm), M (~5 μm), and N (~10 μm), that enhancements of the emergent flux over blackbody values, in particular in the near infrared, can be by many orders of magnitude, and that the infrared colors of EGPs and brown dwarfs are much bluer than previously believed. In particular, relative to J and H, the K band flux is reduced by CH4 and H2 absorption. Furthermore, we conclude that for Teff's below 1200 K most or all true metals may be sequestered below the photosphere, that an interior radiative zone is a generic feature of substellar objects, and that clouds of H2O and NH3 are formed for Teff's below ~400 and ~200 K, respectively. This study is done for solar-metallicity objects in isolation and does not include the effects of stellar insulation. Nevertheless, it is a comprehensive attempt to bridge the gap between the planetary and stellar realms and to develop a nongray theory of objects from 0.3MJ ("Saturn") to 70MJ (~0.07 M☉). We find that the detection ranges for brown dwarf/EGP discovery of both ground- and space-based telescopes are larger than previously estimated.
Perceived overload as a predictor of physical strain among spousal and adult child caregivers of frail elders in the community

ABSTRACT Family caregivers of frail elders can experience physical strain associated with caregiving. Identifying correlates of caregiver strain can provide an important impetus for tackling the causes and providing effective interventions. Utilizing data from the 1999 National Long-Term Care Survey, the current study examined correlates of caregiver physical strain among 956 family caregivers, using the stress process model. As multiple regression analyses indicated, the caregiver’s perceived overload predicted greater strain for both spousal and adult child caregivers. For both groups, common correlates of physical strain were caregiving demands, the caregiver’s perceived overload, and limitations placed on the caregiver’s life. The results demonstrate that the family relationship of the caregiver (spouse or adult child) leads to variations and dynamics in caregiver strains, due to qualitatively different relationships.
SPATIAL CORRELATIONS IN THE HELIUM-IONIZING BACKGROUND

After quasars ionize intergalactic He ii at z ∼ 3, a large radiation field builds up above the He ii ionization edge. Unlike the background responsible for H i ionizations, this field should be highly variable, thanks to the scarcity of bright quasars and the relatively short attenuation lengths (∼50 Mpc) of these high-energy photons. Recent observations of the He ii and H i Lyα forests show that this background does indeed vary strongly, with substantial fluctuations on scales as small as ∼2 Mpc. Here, we show that such spatial fluctuation scales are naturally expected in any model in which the sources are as rare as bright quasars, so long as the attenuation length is relatively small. The correlation length itself is comparable to the attenuation length (≳30 Mpc) for the most plausible physical scenarios, but we find order-of-magnitude fluctuations on all scales smaller than ∼6 Mpc. Moreover, aliasing along the one-dimensional skewers probed by the He ii and H i Lyα forests exaggerates these variations, so that order-of-magnitude fluctuations should be observed on all scales smaller than ∼20 Mpc. Complex radiative transfer is therefore not required to explain the observed fluctuations, at least at the level of current data.
A study of the relationship between the leadership styles of principals in smaller learning communities, the number of structures and strategic configurations and the rates of student success of 9th graders

A Study of the Relationship between the Leadership Styles of Principals in Smaller Learning Communities, the Number of Structures and Strategic Configurations and the Rates of Student Success of 9th Graders Sara Jane Lewis-Stankus This study examines the relationship between the leadership styles of principals in smaller learning communities and rates of ninth grade students’ success. To examine this relationship, the Leadership Behavior Description Questionnaire was used to collect data from ninth grade teachers regarding the principal’s leadership style. This survey was used along with a demographic questionnaire given to the principals that collected information regarding the age, gender, number of years experience, highest degree earned, certification, and ninth grade student achievement data. These surveys were sent to 302 public high schools that qualified for a Smaller Learning Communities (SLC) Grant in 2003. The schools include Cohort A (204 schools) and Cohort B (98 schools). The principals delivered the surveys to their ninth grade teachers, and the teachers completed them and returned them in a self-addressed stamped envelope. Responses were received from 456 teachers and 124 high school administrators. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, ANOVA, MANOVA, including normality, homogeneity of variance/covariance were assessed. Pearson’s correlation coefficients and cross-tabulations were used to examine patterns in the data. Major research findings indicate a large percentage (48.5 percent) of principals did not use a particular style of leadership, and their leadership did not significantly impact student achievement. With respect to leadership styles, it was found that principals from high schools in Smaller Learning Communities (Cohort 3), used a multiframe approach (31.1 percent), followed by the single-frame (11.1 percent), and finally the paired-frame (9 percent) approaches. Another significant finding was that learning achievement in algebra of students from smaller schools was significantly higher than that of students from larger schools. Recommendations from this study include implementation of professional development activities for principals from large high schools that includes an increased awareness of their personal leadership orientation, as well as development of multi-frame leadership practices in order to improve their leadership effectiveness.
An Unusual New Theropod with a Didactyl Manus from the Upper Cretaceous of Patagonia, Argentina

Background Late Cretaceous terrestrial strata of the Neuquén Basin, northern Patagonia, Argentina have yielded a rich fauna of dinosaurs and other vertebrates. The diversity of saurischian dinosaurs is particularly high, especially in the late Cenomanian-early Turonian Huincul Formation, which has yielded specimens of rebacchisaurid and titanosaurian sauropods, and abelisaurid and carcharodontosaurid theropods. Continued sampling is adding to the known vertebrate diversity of this unit. Methodology/ Principal Findings A new, partially articulated mid-sized theropod was found in rocks from the Huincul Formation. It exhibits a unique combination of traits that distinguish it from other known theropods justifying erection of a new taxon, Gualicho shinyae gen. et sp. nov. Gualicho possesses a didactyl manus with the third digit reduced to a metacarpal splint reminiscent of tyrannosaurids, but both phylogenetic and multivariate analyses indicate that didactyly is convergent in these groups. Derived characters of the scapula, femur, and fibula supports the new theropod as the sister taxon of the nearly coeval African theropod Deltadromeus and as a neovenatorid carcharodontosaurian. A number of these features are independently present in ceratosaurs, and Gualicho exhibits an unusual mosaic of ceratosaurian and tetanuran synapomorphies distributed throughout the skeleton. Conclusions/ Significance Gualicho shinyae gen. et sp. nov. increases the known theropod diversity of the Huincul Formation and also represents the first likely neovenatorid from this unit. It is the most basal tetatanuran to exhibit common patterns of digit III reduction that evolved independently in a number of other tetanuran lineages. A close relationship with Deltadromaeus from the Kem Kem beds of Niger adds to the already considerable biogeographic similarity between the Huincul Formation and coeval rock units in North Africa.
Measuring star formation with resolved observations: the test case of M 33

Context. Measuring star formation on a local scale is important to constrain star formation laws. It is not clear yet, however, whether and how the measure of star formation is affected by the spatial scale at which a galaxy is observed. Aims. We wish to understand the impact of the resolution on the determination of the spatially resolved star formation rate (SFR) and other directly associated physical parameters such as the attenuation. Methods. We carried out a multi-scale, pixel-by-pixel study of the nearby galaxy M33. Assembling FUV, H alpha, 8 mu m, 24 mu m, 70 mu m, and 100 mu m maps, we have systematically compared the emission in individual bands with various SFR estimators from a resolution of 33 pc to 2084 pc. Results. There are strong, scale-dependent, discrepancies of up to a factor 3 between monochromatic SFR estimators and H alpha + 24 mu m. The scaling factors between individual IR bands and the SFR show a strong dependence on the spatial scale and on the intensity of star formation. Finally, strong variations of the differential reddening between the nebular emission and the stellar continuum are seen, depending on the specific SFR (sSFR) and on the resolution. At the finest spatial scales, there is little differential reddening at high sSFR. The differential reddening increases with decreasing sSFR. At the coarsest spatial scales the differential reddening is compatible with the canonical value found for starburst galaxies. Conclusions. Our results confirm that monochromatic estimators of the SFR are unreliable at scales smaller than 1 kpc. Furthermore, the extension of local calibrations to high-redshift galaxies presents non-trivial challenges because the properties of these systems may be poorly known.
Social participation following right hemisphere stroke: influence of a cognitive-communication disorder

ABSTRACT Background: The ability to return to social activities and roles is an important focus of rehabilitation for people affected by stroke. Rehabilitation professionals currently have limited evidence on the impact of a cognitive-communication disorder (CCD) following right hemispheric (RH) stroke on social participation, and how to support return to social activities and roles. Aims: This study describes (1) social participation change as reported by people with RH stroke; (2) compares social participation change across two groups based on the presence or absence of CCD following RH stroke; and (3) compares self and proxy reports of changes in participation. Methods & Procedures: A telephone survey was conducted with randomly selected people with first onset, unilateral RH stroke, and with matched significant others (proxies). The Sydney Psychosocial Reintegration Scale (SPRS-2) was utilised to explore change associated with stroke across Occupational Activities (OA), Interpersonal Relationships (IR) and Independent Living Skills (LS). Survey responses were compared utilising independent t-tests across two groups based on the presence or absence of CCD. Participant-proxy agreement was established using inter-rater correlation coefficient. Outcomes & Results: Change in social participation was reported for thirty-six participants with an average age of 65.95 years (SD = 13.09), of whom 58.3% were male and 38.9% employed at the time of the stroke. Time post-stroke to completion of the SPRS-2 ranged from six to 33 months. Most participants (94.4%, n = 34) reported change in at least one of the SPRS-2 domains. The presence of CCD had an impact on social participation as measured on the SPRS-2, which was significantly different to what was reported by participants without a communication impairment post-RH stroke (p = 0.02.) Inter-rater agreement statistic (Kappa) indicated a fair participant-proxy dyad agreement in the group with CCD, and a moderate agreement in the group without CCD across the SPRS-2 domains. Conclusions: Changes in social participation following RH stroke occur across Occupational Activities, Interpersonal Relationships and Independent Living Skills for the majority of people and occur with greater frequency and degree where a CCD is present. This exploratory study highlights the importance of rehabilitation goals that address social participation to reduce potential social isolation in people with CCD post-RH stroke. Further identification of risk factors for social participation restriction in this population is required to better inform rehabilitation timing and focus.
Rangeland Consolidation Patterns in Australia: An Agent-Based Modelling Approach

In Australian rangelands, post-European pastoral land-use systems have been characterised by private-property regimes, which to varying degrees have created fragmented and disconnected landscapes. There are both environmental and economic risks associated with productive land fragments being too small. These risks necessitate an understanding of fragmentation’s driving forces, made difficult because the problem involves social, economic and environmental factors, interacting over a range of temporal and spatial scales. We developed an agentbased model to help us explore the complex rangeland dynamics. In this paper we apply our model to the problem of landscape fragmentation and subsequent consolidation. Our simple model contains pastoralists, livestock, key ecological processes, and governance. Over the last century, declining enterprise sizes, increasing costs and declining returns have all contributed to increasing pressures on the viability of pastoral enterprises. We found strong regional variation is driven by localised historical and economic patterns which seed the consolidation process differently in different regions. Anecdotal evidence from South-West Queensland, Victoria River District, and Dalrymple Shire, show our model can explain regional variation. Our simulations represent a starting point for developing a more complete and insightful understanding of ongoing dynamics in rangelands, with the aim of informing policy.