Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Minimizing the Number of Matching Queries for Object Retrieval

To increase the computational efficiency of interest-point based object retrieval, researchers have put remarkable research efforts into improving the efficiency of kNN-based feature matching, pursuing to match thousands of features against a database within fractions of a second. However, due to the high-dimensional nature of image features that reduces the effectivity of index structures (curse of dimensionality), due to the vast amount of features stored in image databases (images are often represented by up to several thousand features), this ultimate goal demanded to trade query runtimes for query precision. In this paper we address an approach complementary to indexing in order to improve the runtimes of retrieval by querying only the most promising keypoint descriptors, as this affects matching runtimes linearly and can therefore lead to increased efficiency. As this reduction of kNN queries reduces the number of tentative correspondences, a loss of query precision is minimized by an additional image-level correspondence generation stage with a computational performance independent of the underlying indexing structure. We evaluate such an adaption of the standard recognition pipeline on a variety of datasets using both SIFT and state-of-the-art binary descriptors. Our results suggest that decreasing the number of queried descriptors does not necessarily imply a reduction in the result quality as long as alternative ways of increasing query recall (by thoroughly selecting k) and MAP (using image-level correspondence generation) are considered.
Co-designing an e-health tutorial for older adults

Older adults' ability to access and use electronic health information is generally low, requiring innovative approaches for improvement. An integrated e-tutorial overlays instructions onto Websites. The literature suggests integrated e-tutorials are more effective than paper or video-based tutorials for younger people, but little is known about their effectiveness for older adults. This study explores the applicability of an integrated e-health tutorial for older adults. An integrated e-tutorial, the Online Tutorial Overlay Presenter (OnTOP), added an instructional overlay to the NIHSeniorHealth.gov Website. Overlay features were examined in seven participatory design sessions with seven older adults. Participatory design techniques were used to elicit participants' preferences for tutorial features. Three themes emerged: 1) using contextual cues; 2) tailoring to the learner's literacy level; and 3) enhancing interfaces with multimedia cues. These findings improved the design features of OnTOP. They also generated empirical evidence about the effects of multimedia learning among older adults.
Anomalous Lagrangians and the radiative muon capture in hydrogen

The structure of an anomalous Lagrangian of the πρωa1 system is investigated within the hidden local SU(2)R × SU(2)L symmetry approach. The interaction of the external electromagnetic and weak vector and axial–vector fields with the above hadron system is included. The Lagrangian of interest contains the anomalous Wess–Zumino term following from the well known Wess–Zumino–Witten action and six independent homogenous terms. It is characterized by four constants that are to be determined from a fit to the data on various elementary reactions. Present data allows one to extract the constants with a good accuracy. The homogenous part of the Lagrangian has been applied in the study of anomalous processes that could enhance the high energy tail of the spectrum of photons, produced in the radiative muon capture in hydrogen. It should be noted that recently, an intensive search for such enhancement processes has been carried out in the literature, in an attempt to resolve the so called ”gP puzzle”: an � 50 % difference between the theoretical prediction of the value of the induced pseudoscalar constant gP and its value extracted from the high energy tail of the photon spectrum, measured in the precision TRIUMF experiment. Here, more details on the studied material are presented and new results, obtained by using the Wess–Zumino term, are provided.
Eliminating redundant fragment shader executions on a mobile GPU via hardware memoization

Redundancy is at the heart of graphical applications. In fact, generating an animation typically involves the succession of extremely similar images. In terms of rendering these images, this behavior translates into the creation of many fragment programs with the exact same input data. We have measured this fragment redundancy for a set of commercial Android applications, and found that more than 40% of the fragments used in a frame have been already computed in a prior frame. In this paper we try to exploit this redundancy, using fragment memoization. Unfortunately, this is not an easy task as most of the redundancy exists across frames, rendering most HW based schemes unfeasible. We thus first take a step back and try to analyze the temporal locality of the redundant fragments, their complexity, and the number of inputs typically seen in fragment programs. The result of our analysis is a task level memoization scheme, that easily outperforms the current state-of-the-art in low power GPUs. More specifically, our experimental results show that our scheme is able to remove 59.7% of the redundant fragment computations on average. This materializes to a significant speedup of 17.6% on average, while also improving the overall energy efficiency by 8.9% on average.
IC 10: More evidence that it is a blue compact dwarf

We present optical spectroscopy of Hii regions in the Local Group galaxy IC 10 and UBVR photometry of foreground stars in three fields towards this galaxy. From these data, we find that the foreground reddening due to the Milky Way is $E(B-V)=0.77\pm 0.07 \mathrm{mag}$. We find that IC 10 contains considerable internal dust, which qualitatively explains the variety of reddening values found by studies of its different stellar populations. Based upon our foreground reddening, IC 10 has intrinsic photometric properties like those of a blue compact dwarf galaxy, and not those of a dwarf irregular. This result is consistent with much evidence that IC 10 is in the throes of a starburst that began at least $10 \mathrm{Myr}$ ago. We also report the discovery of a new WR star in the Hii region HL111c.
Interferometric hydrofracture microseism localization using neighboring fracture

Hydraulic fracturing is the process of injecting high-pressure fluids into a reservoir to induce fractures and thus improve reservoir productivity. Microseismic event localization is used to locate created fractures. Traditionally, events are localized individually. Available information about events already localized is not used to help estimate other source locations. Traditional localization methods yield an uncertainty that is inversely proportional to the square root of the number of receivers. However, in applications where multiple fractures are created, multiple sources in a reference fracture may provide redundant information about unknown events in subsequent fractures that can boost the signal-to-noise ratio, improving estimates of the event positions. We used sources in fractures closer to the monitoring well to help localize events further away. It is known through seismic interferometry that with a 2D array of receivers, the traveltime between two sources may be recovered from a crosscorrelogram of two common source gathers. This allowed an event in the second fracture to be localized relative to an event in the reference fracture. A difficulty became evident when receivers are located in a single monitoring well. When the receiver array is 1D, classical interferometry cannot be directly employed because the problem becomes underdetermined. In our approach, interferometry was used to partially redatum microseismic events from the second fracture onto the reference fracture so that they can be used as virtual receivers, providing additional information complementary to that provided by the physical receivers. Our error analysis showed that, in addition to the gain obtained by having multiple physical receivers, the location uncertainty is inversely proportional to the square root of the number of sources in the reference fracture. Because the number of microseism sources is usually high, the proposed method will usually result in more accurate location estimates as compared with the traditional methods.
A new asynchronous pipeline scheme: application to the design of a self-timed ring divider

This paper describes an efficient means of synchronizing and pipelining asynchronous circuits implemented using differential cascode voltage switch logic (DCVSL) precharged function blocks. A modified version of this logic, called LDCVSL (latch differential cascode voltage switch logic), which is similar to the LCDL (latched CMOS differential logic), or DCVSL with NORA-latch, is used to improve the storage capability of the precharged function blocks. Improving the storage capability of the building blocks allows the design of an efficient pipeline scheme which is described in detail. Following a description of its potential performance, the pipeline scheme is applied to the design of self-timed rings. It is shown that more compact ring structures can be obtained without loss of performance. Our design methodology is then presented. It is based on the use of a private asynchronous standard cell library, fully compatible with an existing CMOS standard cell library provided by the foundry. Our approach allows the rapid design of standard cell based asynchronous circuits. Finally, both the pipeline scheme and design approach are illustrated through the design of a 32-b self-timed ring divider. The division algorithm is first briefly presented. The chip architecture is then described with the results obtained after fabrication. The test chip has been fabricated using the CNET/SGS-Thomson 0.5 /spl mu/m three metal layer technology. The 0.7 mm/sup 2/ chip computes 32-b divisions in 101 ns with a power consumption of 30 mW at a throughput of 10 million operations per second.
Probing dark energy inhomogeneities with supernovae

We discuss the possibility of identifying anisotropic and/or inhomogeneous cosmological models using type Ia supernova data. A search for correlations in current type Ia peak magnitudes over a large range of angular scales yields a null result. However, the same analysis limited to supernovae at low redshift shows a feeble anticorrelation at the 2σ level at angular scales θ≈40°. Upcoming data from, e.g., the SNLS (Supernova Legacy Survey) and the SDSS-II (SDSS: Sloan Digital Sky Survey) supernova searches will improve our limits on the size of—or possibly detect—possible correlations also at high redshift at the per cent level in the near future. With data from the proposed SNAP (SuperNova Acceleration Probe) satellite, we will be able to detect the induced correlations from gravitational lensing on type Ia peak magnitudes on scales less than a degree.
Monitoring Banking Sector Fragility: A Multivariate Logit Approach with an Application to the 1996-97 Banking Crises

This article explores how a multivariate logit model of the probability of a banking crisis can be used to monitor banking sector fragility. The proposed approach relies on readily available data, and the fragility assessment has a clear interpretation based on in sample statistics. The model has better in-sample performance than currently available alternatives, and the monitoring system can be tailored to fit the preferences of decision makers regarding type I and type II errors. The framework can be useful as a preliminary screen to economize on precautionary costs.
MICRO-FINANCE AS A STRATEGY FOR POVERTY REDUCTION BY O.O. AKANJI

The paper established the facts that poverty is indeed increasing in Nigeria based on the poverty assessment study commissioned and sponsored by the World Bank in 1995. It further indicated in the introduction that the World Bank and the IMF group are focusing on poverty reduction as a prerequisite for debt relief. The paper is structured into five sections with introduction being section one. Section two gives conceptual framework and reviews some country experiences of micro-credit programs. Section three describes the efforts put in place in Nigeria-the World Bank group efforts and the IMF to alleviate poverty while section four offers the micro-finance model and principles, that could be adapted in Nigeria considering the Nigerian experience on financial intermediation. Section five concludes the paper. In the conclusion, the paper emphasized that indeed micro-finance is a strategy of poverty reduction. Looking ahead to the future of micro-finance program in Nigeria, the paper indicated that: • There is significant room for improvement within the current dispensation. • The current situation with improved revenue through oil wind fall could support the poverty reduction program. • Serious issue of supervision must be tabled and discussed thoroughly with the financial sector regulating authorities for the new merger of formal/informal credit institutions. * Training must be built into the micro-finance program. • Ensure the budget provisions are made during fiscal year to assist program of transfer to the poor *Mrs. O.O. Akanji is Deputy Director of Research, CBN. CBN ECONOMIC & FINANCIAL REVIEW, VOL. 39 N0. 4
Principles of racial integration vs. perceptions of non-White neighborhoods: Comparing hypothetical and real neighborhood choice

ABSTRACT Using qualitative interview data, we examine the consistency of White residents’ responses to questions about their preferences for the racial composition of their neighborhoods when comparing hypothetical showcards and maps of real neighborhoods in respondents’ cities. This approach allows for an examination of how residents’ preferences for real neighborhoods align with preferences for idealized neighborhoods and the explanations people give when describing their preferences for neighborhoods of color. Data come from qualitative interviews conducted in Buffalo, New York, and Ogden, Utah.
Membrane traffic in animal cells: cellular glycoproteins return to the site of Golgi mannosidase I

The recycling of cellular glycoproteins to the site of Golgi mannosidase I, an enzyme of asparagine-linked oligosaccharide synthesis, was studied in K562 human erythroleukemia cells. Cells were metabolically labeled in the presence of deoxymannojirimycin, a reversible inhibitor of Golgi mannosidase I. This generates glycoproteins with immature oligosaccharides in their normal locations. Transport to the mannosidase I compartment was then assessed by testing for the conversion of oligosaccharides into mature forms during reculture without deoxymannojirimycin. Transferrin receptor (TfR) was acted on by mannosidase I during reculture, suggesting that it returned to the region of the Golgi complex where this enzyme resides. The slow rate of this transport (t1/2 greater than 6 h) implies that it is probably different than TfR movement during transferrin internalization (t1/2 = 10-20 min) and TfR transport to the sialyltransferase compartment in the Golgi complex (t1/2 = 2-3 h) (Snider, M. D., and O. C. Rogers, 1985, J. Cell Biol., 100:826-834). The total cell glycoprotein pool was also transported to the mannosidase I compartment with a half-time of 4 h. Because this transport is 5-10 times faster than the rate of de novo glycoprotein synthesis in these cells, it is likely that most of the glycoprotein traffic through the Golgi complex is composed of recycling molecules.
The “ independence ” of expert opinions provided by auditors and associates in Australian takeovers

Australian corporation legislation requires target firms to commission the preparation of an independent expert report in various circumstances. As approximately half of all reports are prepared by an expert with other dealings with the target, concerns have been expressed over the independence of the opinion provided. Public criticism has suggested that where the expert is an associate of the target, their opinion will be more likely to agree with the recommendation of target firm directors. This paper tests the validity of this criticism. The results show that relative to other experts, there is no difference in the rate at which associates of the target provide an opinion that agrees with that of directors. However, the capital market reaction at the release of the expert report indicates that reports produced by such experts are viewed as nonindependent. Abnormal returns are positive and significant when the expert has no dealings with the target and insignificant when the expert is the target’s auditor or discloses other dealings with the target. These results are consistent with these expert opinions as being independent “in fact” but not in “appearance. ”
Bone Laminarity in the Avian Forelimb Skeleton and Its Relationship to Flight Mode: Testing Functional Interpretations

Wing bone histology in three species of birds was characterized in order to test hypotheses related to the relationship between skeletal microstructure and inferred wing loading during flight. Data on the degree of laminarity (the proportion of circular vascular canals) and the occurrence of secondary osteons were obtained from three species that utilize different primary flight modes: the Double‐crested cormorant, a continuous flapper; the Brown pelican, a static soarer; and the Laysan albatross, a dynamic soarer. Laminarity indices were calculated for four quadrants for each of the three main wing elements. Ulnae and carpometacarpi were predicted to exhibit quadrant specific patterns of laminarity due to hypothesized differences in locally applied loads related to the attachment of flight feathers. However, few differences among the quadrants were identified. No significant differences were identified among the three elements, which is notable as different bones are likely experiencing different loading conditions. These results do not support the concept of bone functional adaptation in the primary structure of the wing elements. Significant differences in laminarity were found among the three primary flight modes. The dynamic soaring birds exhibited significantly lower laminarity than the flapping and static soaring birds. These results support the proposed hypothesis that laminarity is an adaptation for resisting torsional loading. This may be explained by overall wing shape: whereas dynamic soaring birds have long slender wings, flappers and static soaring birds have broader wings with a larger wing chord that would necessarily impart a higher torsional moment on the feather‐bearing bones. Anat Rec, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
THE VIEWS OF PROSPECTIVE PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHERS ABOUT THE NATURE OF SCIENCE

Physical education teachers’ gaining the perception of physical education as a discipline and putting their NOS (Nature of science) notion into operation are crucial for the promotion of educational success. The main purpose of this study is to determine prospective physical education teachers’ and physical education graduates’ nature of science perceptions and their attitudes towards using scientific knowledge in their teaching process. This study was carried out through random sampling method. The participants were 232 prospective physical education teachers studying pedagogical formation at Hitit University and Amasya University and undergraduate students studying physical education and sports at Amasya University in 2015-2016 academic years. “The Nature of Scientific Knowledge Scale” developed by Rubba and Anderson and translated and adapted in Turkish by Kilic, Sungur, Cakiroglu and Tekkaya (2005) was used as the data collection tool. It was revealed in the study that while the variables related to subjects’ gender, grade level and whether they follow scientific developments or not cause statistically differences the variables related to the type of master programme and their ages cause no differences. Through the findings of the study, physical education teachers’ NOS perceptions have been determined and some suggestions have been offered for further studies. Article visualizations:
Design and implementation of content-adaptive background skipping for wireless video

This work presents a low-complexity system implementation of a novel content-adaptive background skipping scheme for region-of-interest (ROI) video coding in mobile video phone applications. To improve the overall perceptual quality, the proposed approach reallocates bits to ROI macroblocks by adaptively skipping the non-ROI and using a weighted bit allocation scheme. The skip decision for the non-ROI is adaptively determined by the content information of the video, such as foreground shape deformation, foreground motion, background motion and background texture complexity. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed scheme outperforms traditional schemes by up to 2 dB
Understanding online collaboration technology adoption by researchers - a model and empirical study

Collaboration in research continuously gains importance. Recent developments in online collaboration technology, namely social research network sites (SRNS), specifically aim to support research collaboration. SRNS allow researchers to present themselves, to network, to communicate, and to collaborate. Acceptance of this technology by researchers has received little academic attention, a void this researchin-progress addresses. Building on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology and its recent extension for collaboration technology we present a study design and a theory-based research model to investigate acceptance of online collaboration technology by researchers. As technology adoption research is still dominated by quantitative studies, our study design combines qualitative and quantitative elements and thus makes a methodological contribution. Analyzing qualitative results of 11 focus group sessions, we extend the theory-based model to integrate User Resistance. Additionally, three constructs are identified as antecedents of Performance Expectancy (communication benefits and noise) and Effort Expectancy
WSSim : a Tool for the Measurement of Web Service Interface Similarity

Measuring web services similarity is a key solution to benefit from reusing the large number of Web service collections available on the Internet. This paper presents a practical approach to measure the similarity of Web services based on their interfaces. The approach relies on the use of several similarity metrics. Both semantic and lexical metrics are integrated throughout a specific technique for assessing scores between matched Web services, operations, messages, parameters identifiers and types. The obtained similarity scores are good indicators of the substitutability relation (and thus of the capacity for reuse) between the compared services. A tool has been developed to implement this approach. This tool has been experimented on some real world Web services.