Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Towards the Science of Security and Privacy in Machine Learning

Advances in machine learning (ML) in recent years have enabled a dizzying array of applications such as data analytics, autonomous systems, and security diagnostics. ML is now pervasive---new systems and models are being deployed in every domain imaginable, leading to rapid and widespread deployment of software based inference and decision making. There is growing recognition that ML exposes new vulnerabilities in software systems, yet the technical community's understanding of the nature and extent of these vulnerabilities remains limited. We systematize recent findings on ML security and privacy, focusing on attacks identified on these systems and defenses crafted to date. We articulate a comprehensive threat model for ML, and categorize attacks and defenses within an adversarial framework. Key insights resulting from works both in the ML and security communities are identified and the effectiveness of approaches are related to structural elements of ML algorithms and the data used to train them. We conclude by formally exploring the opposing relationship between model accuracy and resilience to adversarial manipulation. Through these explorations, we show that there are (possibly unavoidable) tensions between model complexity, accuracy, and resilience that must be calibrated for the environments in which they will be used.
Semisupervised Hyperspectral Image Classification via Neighborhood Graph Learning

In problems where labeled data are scarce, semisupervised learning (SSL) techniques are an attractive framework that can exploit both labeled and unlabeled data. These approaches typically rely on a smoothness assumption such that examples that are similar in input space should also be similar in label space. In many domains, such as remotely sensed hyperspectral image (HSI) classification, the data violate this assumption. In response, we propose a general method by which a neighborhood graph used in SSL is learned using binary classifiers that are trained to predict whether a pair of pixels shares the same label. Working within the framework of semisupervised neural networks (SSNNs), we show that our approach improves on the performance of the SSNN on two HSI data sets.
International Journal of Advances in Electrical and Electronics Engineering Performance Analyses of Routing Protocol in Multihop Mobile Adhoc Networks

An ad hoc network is a collection of wireless mobile nodes dynamically forming a temporary network without the use of any existing network infrastructure or centralized administration. A number of routing protocols such as Dynamic Source Routing (DSR), Ad Hoc on-Demand Distance Vector Routing (AODV) and Destination-Sequenced Distance-Vector (DSDV) have been implemented. Routing in adhoc networks is nontrivial due to highly dynamic nature of the nodes. In recent years several routing protocols targeted at mobile adhoc networks are being proposed and prominent among them are DSDV, AODV, TORA, and DSR. This paper does the comprehensive performance analysis of the routing protocols using ns2 simulator considering all the metrics as suggested by RFC 2501. Results indicate reactive routing protocols are more suitable for adhoc networks. A simulation model with Media Access Control (MAC) and physical layer models are used to study interlayer interactions and their performance implications. The On-demand protocols, AODV and DSR perform better than table-driven DSDV protocol. Although DSR and AODV share similar on-demand behavior, the differences in the protocol mechanism can lead to measurable amount of variation in performance. A variety of workload are characterized by mobility, load and size of the ad hoc network in a given scenario were simulated which helped to analyze the performance. The main reason for degradation in performance as a result of node mobility is due to traffic control overhead required for maintaining accurate routing tables in case of table-driven protocols and maintaining routes in on-demand protocols [1]. We quantify the effect of node mobility and message length on the Bit Error Rate (BER) of an average multi-hop route using a recently developed communication-theoretic framework for adhoc wireless network [2]. We study the network performance such as throughput, delivery ratio, and end-to end delay when position-based routing is used. Also node mobility and position error affect the performance. The variation in performance differentials are analyzed by use of varying simulation time. These simulations are carried out using NS-2 simulator. The results presented in this work illustrate the importance in carefully evaluating and implementing routing protocols in an ad hoc environment.
Universal Computation by Multiparticle Quantum Walk

Computing Power of Quantum Mechanics There is much interest in developing quantum computers in order to perform certain tasks much faster than, or that are intractable for, a classical computer. A general quantum computer, however, requires the fabrication and operation a number of quantum logic devices (see the Perspective by Franson). Broome et al. (p. 794, published online 20 December) and Spring et al. (p. 798, published online 20 December) describe experiments in which single photons and quantum interference were used to perform a calculation (the permanent of a matrix) that is very difficult on a classical computer. Similar to random walks, quantum walks on a graph describe the movement of a walker on a set of predetermined paths; instead of flipping a coin to decide which way to go at each point, a quantum walker can take several paths at once. Childs et al. (p. 791) propose an architecture for a quantum computer, based on quantum walks of multiple interacting walkers. The system is capable of performing any quantum operation using a subset of its nodes, with the size of the subset scaling favorably with the complexity of the operation. A scalable quantum computer architecture based on multiple interacting quantum walkers is proposed. [Also see Perspective by Franson] A quantum walk is a time-homogeneous quantum-mechanical process on a graph defined by analogy to classical random walk. The quantum walker is a particle that moves from a given vertex to adjacent vertices in quantum superposition. We consider a generalization to interacting systems with more than one walker, such as the Bose-Hubbard model and systems of fermions or distinguishable particles with nearest-neighbor interactions, and show that multiparticle quantum walk is capable of universal quantum computation. Our construction could, in principle, be used as an architecture for building a scalable quantum computer with no need for time-dependent control.
GROUND RULES IN ONLINE DISCUSSIONS: HELP OR HINDRANCE?

Discussions play a key role in both online and traditional classrooms (Brookfield & Preskill, 2005) and the number of family science classes taught partially or exclusively online is increasing each year. Thus, consideration of issues related to the use of online discussions in family science classrooms is critical to understanding both the benefits and risks of online discussions. This study investigated the role of discussion ground rules in an online family science class. Results support the notion that ground rules play an important role in the facilitation of a positive online discussion experience. They also highlight the need to reflect on the role of online discussions in the family science classroom and the use of practices and policies such as ground rules to support quality discussions. Implications for the use of discussions and ground rules in family science classrooms, including the development of professional skills for future family science professionals, are presented. Discussions are an important part of both traditional and on-line college classrooms, but they may play a particularly key role in on-line classrooms because of their critical role in providing interaction necessary for a learner-centered classroom. In family science classrooms, discussions play a key role in learning, as well as provide a mechanism for the development of interpersonal and professional skills that are necessary for future family science professionals. Thus, family science instructors teaching in both traditional and online classrooms should be aware of strategies for supporting and promoting discussions. This paper will discuss one such strategy for the facilitation of effective discussions in on-line classrooms: ground rules. Discussions
Living With Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a common learning disorder that impairs people's reading skills. It's so common that one in ten English speakers may have some form of dyslexia. This book examines the different varieties of dyslexia, the root causes of the disorder, theories about how it works, and its effect on the way that the brain processes written language. It also provides readers with strategies for dealing with dyslexia.
Some macroeconomic aspects of global population aging

Across the demographic transition, declining mortality followed by declining fertility produces decades of rising support ratios as child dependency falls. These improving support ratios raise per capita consumption, other things equal, but eventually deteriorate as the population ages. Population aging and the forces leading to it can produce not only frightening declines in support ratios but also very substantial increases in productivity and per capita income by raising investment in physical and human capital. Longer life, lower fertility, and population aging all raise the demand for wealth needed to provide for old-age consumption. This leads to increased capital per worker even as aggregate saving rates fall. However, capital per worker may not rise if the increased demand for wealth is satisfied by increased familial or public pension transfers to the elderly. Thus, institutions and policies matter for the consequences of population aging. The accumulation of human capital also varies across the transition. Lower fertility and mortality are associated with higher human capital investment per child, also raising labor productivity. Together, the positive changes due to human and physical capital accumulation will likely outweigh the problems of declining support ratios. We draw on estimates and analyses from the National Transfer Accounts project to illustrate and quantify these points.
A bearing-only control law for stable docking of unicycles

This paper proposes a new control method for stabilising control design for docking unicycle-like vehicles based on bearing-only information. An omni-directional panoramic camera is used to detect visual targets around the docking station and provides bearing (or heading) data for each observed landmark. The convergence of the controlled system is fully analysed and simulations are provided to demonstrate the ideal behaviour of the system. A robust and computationally cheap blob detection algorithm is proposed and results are provided to demonstrate its performance in extracting targets from cluttered scenes. Experimental results are presented demonstrating the performance of the algorithm on the ANU Nomadic Technologies Nomad XR4000 robot.
Perfluorocarbon Emulsion Improves Cerebral Oxygenation and Mitochondrial Function after Fluid Percussion Brain Injury in Rats

OBJECTIVE:Cerebral ischemia is a common secondary sequela of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Experimental models of stroke have demonstrated reductions in ischemia after perfluorocarbon (PFC) administration; however, there are no published reports of PFC efficacy after TBI. The current study analyzed the effect of the PFC emulsion Oxygent (AF0144; Alliance Pharmaceutical Corp., San Diego, CA) on cerebral oxygenation, mitochondrial redox potential, and free radical formation after lateral fluid percussion injury. METHODS:After fluid percussion injury, five 2.25 ml/kg doses of PFC or saline were administered to rats breathing 100% O2, and oxygen tension was recorded. In a second experiment, a single bolus (11.25 ml/kg) of PFC or saline was given after injury, and redox potential and free radical formation were measured at 1 or 4 hours with Alamar blue dye and dihydrorhodamine 123, respectively. RESULTS:Cerebral oxygen tension was significantly increased in both injured and sham animals treated with 11.25 ml/kg of PFC as compared with saline (P < 0.05). Likewise, PFC significantly increased mitochondrial redox potential as compared with saline at 4 hours after injury (P < 0.01). Mitochondrial peroxynitrite and peroxide production also increased with the administration of PFC (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION:The current study demonstrates that a PFC emulsion can significantly increase cerebral oxygenation after TBI and enhance mitochondrial function at 4 hours after injury as compared with saline. This study demonstrates a new therapeutic potential for PFC to enhance cerebral oxygenation and aerobic metabolism after TBI. However, the increased free radical formation with high-dose PFCs suggests the need for further studies combining PFCs with free radical scavengers.
Selective Laser Melting Manufacturing of Microwave Waveguide Devices

Additive manufacturing technologies are currently envisaged to boost the development of a next generation of microwave and millimeter-wave devices intended for, among others, satellite telecommunications, navigation, imaging, radio-astronomy, and cosmology. Due to their excellent electromagnetic and mechanical properties, all-metal waveguide components are key building blocks of several radio frequency (RF) systems used in these application domains. This article reports on the prospects originating from the application of all-metal 3D printing to the manufacturing of high-performance microwave waveguide devices. The technology investigated is the selective laser melting process, where a laser beam is used to fuse metal powder particles spread over a building platform. The complete parts are built by overlapping several constant-thickness layers. An overview on process parameters, material properties, and design rules is reported for this technology. The electromagnetic properties of test samples built in Al and Ti alloys have been experimentally characterized. A robust design of Ku/K-band filters aimed at satellite telecommunications has been implemented in several prototypes manufactured in Al. The corresponding measured performance confirm the applicability of the laser selective melting process to the intended applications.
Homophobic bullying in secondary schools : a prejudice worth fighting about

This thesis reports on the outcomes of the first mixed-methods controlled trial of a manualised anti-homophobia program with 72 year nine students. The program tended to produce small improvements although most of the changes occured in the control group which experienced an overall worsening of homophobia. Qualitative data suggests that the program has led to an increase in awareness of homophobia and highlights the need for specialised teacher training.
Orientation‐selective functional magnetic resonance imaging adaptation in primary visual cortex revisited

The processing of orientations is at the core of our visual experience. Orientation selectivity in human visual cortex has been inferred from psychophysical experiments and more recently demonstrated with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). One method to identify orientation‐selective responses is fMRI adaptation, in which two stimuli—either with the same or with different orientations—are presented successively. A region containing orientation‐selective neurons should demonstrate an adapted response to the “same orientation” condition in contrast to the “different orientation” condition. So far, human primary visual cortex (V1) showed orientation‐selective fMRI adaptation only in experimental designs using prolonged pre‐adaptation periods (∼40 s) in combination with top‐up stimuli that are thought to maintain the adapted level. This finding has led to the notion that orientation‐selective short‐term adaptation in V1 (but not V2 or V3) cannot be demonstrated using fMRI. The present study aimed at re‐evaluating this question by testing three differently timed adaptation designs. With the use of a more sensitive analysis technique, we show robust orientation‐selective fMRI adaptation in V1 evoked by a short‐term adaptation design. Hum Brain Mapp, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Motor Imagery Learning Induced Changes in Functional Connectivity of the Default Mode Network

Numerous studies provide evidences that motor skill learning changes the activity of some brain regions during task as well as some resting networks during rest. However, it is still unclear how motor learning affects the resting-state default-mode network (DMN). Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, this study investigated the alteration of the DMN after motor skill learning with mental imagery practice. Fourteen participants in the experimental group learned to imagine a sequential finger movement over a two-week period while twelve control participants did not undergo motor imagery learning. For the experimental group, interregional connectivity, estimated by the graph theory method, between the medial temporal lobe, lateral temporal, and lateral parietal cortex within the DMN was increased after learning, whereas activity of the DMN network, estimated by the independent component analysis method, remained stable. Moreover, the experimental group showed significant improvement in motor performance after learning and a negative correlation between the alteration of the execution rate and changes in activity in the lateral parietal cortex. These results indicate that the DMN could be sculpted by motor learning in a manner of altering interregional connectivity and may imply that the DMN plays a role in improving behavioral performance.
Building a Recommender Agent for e-Learning Systems

A recommender system in an e-learning context is a software agent that tries to "intelligently" recommend actions to a learner based on the actions of previous learners. This recommendation could be an on-line activity such as doing an exercise, reading posted messages on a conferencing system, or running an on-line simulation, or could be simply a web resource. These recommendation systems have been tried in e-commerce to entice purchasing of goods, but haven't been tried in e-learning. This paper suggests the use of web mining techniques to build such an agent that could recommend on-line learning activities or shortcuts in a course web site based on learners' access history to improve course material navigation as well as assist the online learning process. These techniques are considered integrated web mining as opposed to off-line web mining used by expert users to discover on-line access patterns.
Improved Quality of Life for Opioid-Dependent Patients Receiving Buprenorphine Treatment in HIV Clinics

Background:Opioid dependence and HIV infection are associated with poor health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Buprenorphine/naloxone (bup/nx) provided in HIV care settings may improve HRQOL. Methods:We surveyed 289 HIV-infected opioid-dependent persons treated with clinic-based bup/nx about HRQOL using the Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) administered at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. We used normalized SF-12 scores, which correspond to a mean HRQOL of 50 for the general US population (SD 10, possible range 0-100). We compared mean normalized mental and physical composite and component scores in quarters 1, 2, 3, and 4 with baseline scores using generalized estimating equation models. We assessed the effect of clinic-based bup/nx prescription on HRQOL composite scores using mixed effects regression with site as random effect and time as repeated effect. Results:Baseline normalized SF-12 scores were lower than the general US population for all HRQOL domains. Average composite mental HRQOL improved from 38.3 (SE 12.5) to 43.4 (SE 13.2) [β 1.13 (95% CI: 0.72 to 1.54)] and composite physical HRQOL remained unchanged [β 0.21 (95% CI: −0.16 to 0.57)] over 12 months follow-up. Continued bup/nx treatment across all 4 quarters was associated with improvements in both physical [β 2.38 (95% CI: 0.63 to 4.12)] and mental [β 2.51 (95% CI: 0.42 to 4.60)] HRQOL after adjusting for other contributors to HRQOL. Conclusions:Clinic-based bup/nx maintenance therapy is potentially effective in ameliorating some of the adverse effects of opioid dependence on HRQOL for HIV-infected populations.
State dependence and heterogeneity in health using a bias corrected fixed effects estimator.

This paper considers the estimation of a dynamic ordered probit of self-assessed health status with two fixed effects: one in the linear index equation and one in the cut points. The two fixed effects allow us to robustly control for heterogeneity in unobserved health status and in reporting behaviour, even though we can not separate both sources of heterogeneity. The contributions of this paper are twofold. First it contributes to the literature that studies the determinants and dynamics of Self-Assessed Health measures. Second, this paper contributes to the recent literature on bias correction in nonlinear panel data models with fixed effects by applying and studying the finite sample properties of two of the existing proposals to our model. The most direct and easily applicable correction to our model is not the best one, and has important biases in our sample sizes
The structure of the sarcomeric M band: localization of defined domains of myomesin, M-protein, and the 250-kD carboxy-terminal region of titin by immunoelectron microscopy

The M band of vertebrate cross-striated myofibrils has remained an enigmatic structure. In addition to myosin thick filaments, two major structural proteins, myomesin and M-protein, have been localized to the M band. Also, titin is expected to be anchored in this structure. To begin to understand the molecular layout of these three proteins, a panel of 16 polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies directed against unique epitopes of defined sequence was assembled, and immunoelectron microscopy was used to locate the position of the epitopes at the sarcomere level. The results allow the localization and orientation of defined domains of titin, myomesin, and M-protein at high resolution. The 250-kD carboxy-terminal region of titin clearly enters the M band with the kinase domain situated approximately 52 nm from the central M1- line. The positions of three additional epitopes are compatible with the view that the titin molecule reaches approximately 60 nm into the opposite sarcomere half. Myomesin also seems to bridge the central M1- line and is oriented parallel to the long axis of the myofibril. The neighboring molecules are oriented in an antiparallel and staggered fashion. The amino-terminal portion of the protein, known to contain a myosin binding site, seems to adopt a specific three-dimensional arrangement. While myomesin is present in both slow and fast fibers, M- protein is restricted to fast fibers. It appears to be organized in a fundamentally different manner: the central portion of the polypeptide is around the M1-line, while the terminal epitopes seem to be arranged along thick filaments. This orientation fits the conspicuously stronger M1-lines in fast twitch fibers. Obvious implications of this model are discussed.