Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
CBCL-277 May 10 , 2009 Scene Classification with a Biologically Inspired Method

We present a biologically motivated method for scene image classification. The core of the method is to use shape based image property that is provided by a hierarchical feedforward model of the visual cortex [18]. Edge based and color based image properties are additionally used to improve the accuracy. The method consists of two stages of image analysis. In the first stage, each of three paths of classification uses each image property (i.e. shape, edge or color based features) independently. In the second stage, a single classifier assigns the category of an image based on the probability distributions of the first stage classifier outputs. Experiments show that the method boosts the classification accuracy over the shape based model. We demonstrate that this method achieves a high accuracy comparable to other reported methods on publicly available color image dataset.
Individual Classification of Emotions Using EEG

Many studies suggest that EEG signals provide enough information for the detection of human emotions with feature based classification methods. However, very few studies have reported a classification method that reliably works for individual participants (classification accuracy well over 90%). Further, a necessary condition for real life applications is a method that allows, irrespective of the immense individual difference among participants, to have minimal variance over the individual classification accuracy. We conducted offline computer aided emotion classification experiments using strict experimental controls. We analyzed EEG data collected from nine participants using validated film clips to induce four different emotional states (amused, disgusted, sad and neutral). The classification rate was evaluated using both unsupervised and supervised learning algorithms (in total seven “state of the art” algorithms were tested). The largest classification accuracy was computed by means of Support Vector Machine. Accuracy rate was on average 97.2%. The experimental protocol effectiveness was further supported by very small variance among individual participants’ classification accuracy (within interval: 96.7%, 98.3%). Classification accuracy evaluated on reduced number of electrodes suggested, consistently with psychological constructionist approaches, that we were able to classify emotions considering cortical activity from areas involved in emotion representation. The experimental protocol therefore appeared to be a key factor to improve the classification outcome by means of data quality improvements.
Pricing of liquidity risk: empirical evidence from Finland

This study investigates the pricing of liquidity risk in stock market using conditional Asset Pricing Models (APMs). The estimation is conducted in the Generalized Method of Moment (GMM) framework with a price of risk specification. The main interest is to find out whether liquidity is priced as a systematic source of risk or as an asset-specific characteristic. Tests are conducted on the Finnish stock market known for wide variations in liquidity. The sample period is from 1987 to 2004, and size portfolios are used as test assets. The results indicate that illiquidity is priced as a market-wide systematic risk and not as an asset-specific risk.
Exploring the quality of corporate environmental reporting

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide a multidimensional model for assessing the quality of corporate environmental reporting (CER) incorporating both preparer- and user-based views. Design/methodology/approach As opposed to frequently used researcher-chosen proxies, the authors used an online questionnaire asking preparers and users how they assess the quality of a company’s environmental report. Findings The analysis of the responses of 177 users and 86 preparers shows that quantity was not perceived as the most significant element in determining quality. Besides quantity, the respondents also perceived information types, measures used, themes disclosed, adopting reporting guidelines, inclusion of assurance statement and the use of visual tools as significant dimensions/features of reporting quality. Research limitations/implications The online questionnaire has some limitations, especially in terms of researcher being absent to clarify meanings and, hence, possibilities that respondents may misinterpret the questionnaire elements. Practical implications Considering that robust, reliable measurement of reporting quality is difficult, preparers, standard setters and policy makers need multidimensional quality models that incorporate both users’ perceptions of quality and preparers’ pragmatic understanding of the quality delivery process. These will make the preparers informed of whether their disclosure may be falling short of users’ expectations. Originality/value Amid, increasing complexity of CER, the research contributes to the growing body of literature on assessing the quality of CER by developing a less subjective, multidimensional, preparer–user-based quality model. This innovative quality model goes beyond the traditional quality models, subjective author-based quality measures. Focussing on the three dimensions of reporting quality – content, credibility and communication – it also offers a high-level resolution of meaning of CER quality.
Gene selection for sample classification based on gene expression data: study of sensitivity to choice of parameters of the GA/KNN method

MOTIVATION We recently introduced a multivariate approach that selects a subset of predictive genes jointly for sample classification based on expression data. We tested the algorithm on colon and leukemia data sets. As an extension to our earlier work, we systematically examine the sensitivity, reproducibility and stability of gene selection/sample classification to the choice of parameters of the algorithm. METHODS Our approach combines a Genetic Algorithm (GA) and the k-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) method to identify genes that can jointly discriminate between different classes of samples (e.g. normal versus tumor). The GA/KNN method is a stochastic supervised pattern recognition method. The genes identified are subsequently used to classify independent test set samples. RESULTS The GA/KNN method is capable of selecting a subset of predictive genes from a large noisy data set for sample classification. It is a multivariate approach that can capture the correlated structure in the data. We find that for a given data set gene selection is highly repeatable in independent runs using the GA/KNN method. In general, however, gene selection may be less robust than classification. AVAILABILITY The method is available at http://dir.niehs.nih.gov/microarray/datamining CONTACT LI3@niehs.nih.gov
Changes in Blood Flow, Oxygenation, and Volume Following Extended Stimulation of Rodent Barrel Cortex

Simultaneous optical imaging spectroscopy and laser-Doppler flowmetry were used in rodent barrel cortex to examine the hemodynamic response to extended electrical stimulation (20 s, 5 Hz) of the whisker pad. Stimulation results in a fast early increase in deoxyhemoglobin concentration (Hbr) followed by a later decrease to a "plateau" phase approximately 4 s after stimulation onset. There was no corresponding decrease in oxyhemoglobin (HbO(2)), which simply increased after stimulation, reaching a plateau at approximately 5 s. The time series of flow and volume had similar onset times and did not differ significantly throughout the presentation of the stimuli. Following stimulation cessation all aspects of the hemodynamic response returned to baseline with a long decay constant (>20 s), CBV doing so at a slower rate than CBF. The time courses of CBF, CBV, Hbr, and HbO(2) were very similar to that produced by a brief stimulus up to peak. The relationship between the flow and the volume changes is well approximated by the expression CBV = CBF(phi). We find phi to be slightly lower under stimulation (0.26 +/- 0.0152) than during hypercapnia (0.32 +/- 0.0172). Saturation and flow data were used to estimate changes in CMRO(2) for a range of baseline oxygen extraction fractions (OEF). In the case of hypercapnia CMRO(2) was biphasic, increasing after onset and sharply decreasing below baseline following cessation. If it is assumed that there is no "net" increase in CMRO(2) (i.e., SigmaDeltaCMRO(2) = 0) following the onset and offset of hypercapnia, then the corresponding estimate of baseline OEF is 0.45. Evidence for increased oxygen consumption was obtained for all stimulation intensities assuming a baseline OEF of 0.45.
A study of the scale insect genera Puto Signoret (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Coccoidea: Putoidae) and Ceroputo Šulc (Pseudococcidae) with a comparison to Phenacoccus Cockerell (Pseudococcidae)

For almost a century, the scale insect genus Puto Signoret (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Coccoidea) was considered to belong to the family Pseudococcidae (the mealybugs), but recent consensus accords Puto its own family, the Putoidae. This paper reviews the taxonomic history of Puto and family Putoidae, compares the morphology of Puto to that of Ceroputo Sulc and Phenacoccus Cockerell, and reassesses the status of all species that have been placed in Puto to determine whether they belong to the Putoidae or to the Pseudococcidae. For 49 of 57 species that have been placed in Puto, as listed in the online database ScaleNet, we score and tabulate features that are diagnostic for Putoidae and then list all species in their correct family placement. For comparison, we include a few species of Pseudococcidae, namely five species of Phenacoccus, including the type species Phenacoccus aceris (Signoret), and the type species of Ceroputo, C. pilosellae Sulc. We provide revised synonymy lists for Puto and Ceroputo, a brief diagnosis of each genus, synonymy lists and notes for several species for which we suggest recombinations or additional synonyms, or for which we have additional data on morphology. We provide a brief diagnosis of Phenacoccus for comparison with Ceroputo and Puto. As a result of our study, we recognise 47 extant and two fossil species of Puto, and six species of Ceroputo. The New World species Puto mimicus McKenzie and Puto nulliporus McKenzie are transferred to the mealybug genus Ceroputo as Ceroputo mimicus (McKenzie) comb. nov. and Ceroputo nulliporus (McKenzie) comb. nov., respectively, and the Old World species Puto pini Danzig and Puto vaccinii Danzig are recognised as Ceroputo pini (Danzig) comb. rev. and Ceroputo vaccinii (Danzig) comb. rev., respectively, in agreement with Tang (1992). The Old World species Puto graminis Danzig is transferred to Ceroputo as Ceroputo graminis (Danzig) comb. nov. Based only on a study of the literature, the following two names are treated here as junior subjective synonyms of Ceroputo pilosellae: Phenacoccus asteri Takahashi syn. nov. and Puto jarudensis Tang syn. nov. We agree with Tang (1992) that Leococcus erigeroneus Kanda should be treated as a junior subjective synonym of C. pilosellae and thus the genus name Leococcus Kanda, erected for L. erigeroneus and formerly treated as a junior synonym of Puto, is a junior synonym of Ceroputo.
Comparison of Accelerometer Based Vertical Jump Assessments to a Linear Position Transducer Plus Force Plate System

The vertical jump is a commonly used test by strength and conditioning professionals. However, without access to force plates and/or linear position transducers, force-time curve characteristics of a vertical jump cannot be evaluated. Recently, accelerometer technology has been developed that may serve as a means for more robust field based testing. However, there are very little data on the validity of these devices. PURPOSE: To compare accelerometer based assessments of countermovement vertical jump performance against a force plate and linear position transducer system. METHODS: Ten college aged men (age = 23.63.1 y; height = 180.16.3 cm; mass = 85.015.2kg; body fat = 14.26.5%) performed two series of five restricted (no arm swing) zero load countermovement vertical jumps. Subjects each performed each jump on a force plate while holding a PVC pipe that was attached to two linear position transducers, both of which sampled at 1000 Hz. Additionally, a triaxial accelerometer which sampled at 500 Hz was attached to the PVC pipe. The force plate was used to determine peak force (PF), rate of force development (RFD), and flight time (FT), while the linear position transducers were used to determine vertical displacement (VD) and peak velocity (PV). The force and velocity data were then utilized to calculate the peak power output (PP) achieved during the vertical jump. All force plate and linear position transducer data were derived with the use of a custom LabView Program. The accelerometer was used to assess vertical acceleration, from which PF, RFD, VD, FT and PP were derived and resampled with the use of a custom Labview program. Accelerometer data was resampled from 500 Hz to 250 Hz, 125 Hz and 50 Hz. Paired comparisons coupled with a Holm’s Sequential Bonferroni were used to compare all accelerometer based measures to the force plate and linear position transducer system. Additionally, Pearson Product Moment correlations were made between the various assessment systems. Percent differences and coefficients of variance were also calculated between the two systems. RESULTS: The accelerometer system resulted in a significant (p 0.70) to the force plate and linear position transducer system for PF, RFD, PP, FT, and VD at both 500 and 250 Hz sampling rates. The difference between the force plate plus linear position transducer system and the accelerometer exhibits a general increasing trend as the sampling rate of the accelerometer is decreased. CONCLUSION: The triaxial accelerometer system tested in the present study overestimates PF, RFD, PP, FT and VD when compared to a force plate plus linear position transducer system that samples at 1000 Hz. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: When comparing vertical jump data collected with an accelerometer to the scientific literature, it is important to note that PF, RFD, PP, FT and VD are consistently overestimated. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: This investigation was partially supported by MyoTest Inc., which donated the accelerometer system used in this investigation.
Toward a Theory of Systems Integration Project Management

Two broad questions guide this research. First, how are the processes of systems integration projects situated within the organizational context? Second, how does the management of organizational structures inhibit or facilitate systems integration projects? A grounded theory approach is used to address these questions. Qualitative data has been, and continues to be, collected within the context of an in-depth case study of a single organization. Results thus far lead to the generation of a preliminary theory of systems integration project management.
Gender Equity and Information Technology in Education: The Second Decade

This article presents a review on gender differences and information and communication technology (ICT) in primary and secondary education. First the rapid development of the use of ICT in education is outlined. Then the topics of access to computers, computer-related learning processes, and educational outcomes are discussed. The review also provides insight into the background of gender differences in participation in computer activities and performance in relation to ICT. The research reviewed focused on the role of teachers and fellow classmates, on the different approaches of girls and boys to ICT, and on the preferences of girls regarding the structure and design of software. The research also analyzed the complex meaning of computer attitudes as both a cause and a consequence of differences in the participation and performance of girls and boys. The extent and nature of these differences vary from application to application.
Instrumental variables based on twin births are by definition not valid

Instrumental variables based on twin births are a well-known and widespread method to find exogenous variation in the number of children when studying the effect on siblings or parents. This paper argues that there are serious problems with all versions of these instruments. Many of these problems have arisen because insufficient care has been given to defining the estimated causal effect. This paper discusses this definition and then applies the potential outcomes framework to reveal that instrumental variables based on twin birth violate the exclusion restriction, the independence assumption and one part of the stable unit treatment value assumption. These violations as well as the characteristics of the populations studied have contributed to hiding any true effect of the number of children. It is time to stop using these instrumental variables and to return to these important questions using other methods.
Creativity and Mental Illness: The evolutionary genetics of the creativity–psychosis connection

Schizophrenia, a debilitating mental illness affecting roughly 1 percent of the population worldwide, is widely accepted as being highly genetically influenced (Cardno et al., 1999; Gershon et al., 1988; Kendler and Diehl, 1993). Schizophrenia is often marked by distortions of reality, disorganized thought, emotional blunting, and/or social isolation that may interfere with optimal functioning (Cornblatt et al., 2012). Schizophrenia may be associated with creativity, although research findings are mixed (e.g., Andreasen, 2011; Kyaga et al., 2013). Evidence also points to adverse effects on fertility and reproductive success among (particularly) males with schizophrenia (Svensson et al. 2007), in part accounted for by marital status (McCabe et al., 2009), suggesting potential biological and social influences. Collectively, this raises an intriguing potential evolutionary puzzle: How does schizophrenia persist in the population at a stable prevalence rate too high to be explained by simple random mutation? (Doi et al., 2009; see Del Giudice et al., 2010). Among various hypotheses, including in the context of the emerging field of evolutionary epidemiology, schizophrenia may represent “one extreme of a sexually selected fitness factor” (Shaner et al., 2004). One possibility, which we explore in this chapter, is that schizophrenia remains in the human population (in part via the gene pool) because of shared genetic linkages to creativity (Andreasen, 2011; Carson, 2011), with acknowledgement of likely concurrent environmental (e.g., epigenetic) influences. Available evidence – particularly from twin
Surveying the sky with the Arcminute MicroKelvin Imager: expected constraints on galaxy cluster evolution and cosmology

We discuss prospects for cluster detection via the Sunyaev–Zel'dovich (SZ) effect in a blank field survey with the interferometer array, the Arcminute MicroKelvin Imager (AMI). Clusters of galaxies selected in the SZ effect probe cosmology and structure formation with little observational bias, because the effect measures integrated gas pressure directly, and does so independently of cluster redshift. We use hydrodynamical simulations in combination with the Press–Schechter expression to simulate SZ cluster sky maps. These are used with simulations of the observation process to gauge the expected SZ cluster counts. Even with a very conservative choice of parameters we find that AMI will discover at least several tens of clusters every year with the numbers depend on factors such as the mean matter density, the density fluctuation power spectrum and cluster gas evolution. The AMI survey itself can distinguish between these to some degree, and parameter degeneracies are largely eliminated given optical and X-ray follow-up of these clusters; this will also permit direct investigation of cluster physics and what drives the evolution.
Investigation of the quality properties of open-end spun recycled yarns made from blends of recycled fabric scrap wastes and virgin polyester fibre

Abstract Recycled fibre obtained from fabric scrap wastes is characterized by its low quality properties in terms of inhomogeneous fibre type and non-uniformly distributed short fibre lengths, both of which negatively influences the production process and the quality of the recycled yarns made from it. One of the common ways to utilize recycled fibre in yarn production is to blend it with virgin fibres. In this research article, the quality properties of the open-end spun recycled yarns produced in different material and spinning parameters from blends of recycled fabric scrap wastes and virgin polyester fibres are investigated. As material and spinning parameters, yarn count, blend ratio, waste type, waste origin, twist coefficient and rotor diameter are selected and their effects on the quality properties of the recycled yarns are evaluated through statistical methods. Statistical results reveal that especially blend ratio, yarn count and twist coefficient significantly affect the quality properties. In general, incorporation of virgin polyester fibre to recycled fibre tends to bring about improvement in yarn quality.
LOCALIZATION – COMPLETION STRIKES AGAIN : RELATIVE K 1 IS NILPOTENT

Let G and E stand for one of the following pairs of groups: • Either G is the general quadratic group U(2n, R, Λ), n ≥ 3, and E its elementary subgroup EU(2n, R, Λ), for an almost commutative form ring (R, Λ), • or G is the Chevalley group G(Φ, R) of type Φ, and E its elementary subgroup E(Φ, R), where Φ is a reduced irreducible root system of rank ≥ 2 and R is commutative. Using Bak’s localization-completion method in [7], it was shown in [18] and [19] that G/E is nilpotent by abelian, when R has finite Bass–Serre dimension. In this note, we combine localization-completion with a version of Stein’s relativization [34], which is applicable to our situation [11], and carry over the results in [18] and [19] to the relative case. In other words, we prove that not only absolute K1 functors, but also the relative K1 functors, are nilpotent by abelian.
Light based cellular interactions: hypotheses and perspectives

This work investigates the theoretical possibility of interactions between cells via light. We first take a brief look at the previous research done in the past to have a better understanding of the field and the origins of the concept of cellular interactions. Then we identify the different elements essential for interactions between two parties. We then compare the required elements with the known and studied elements and characteristics which are well defined in biology, chemistry and physics. This way we are able to set up four postulates required for cell interactions: I. A signal is present and subject to secondary modulation by the emitter cells. II. There is a plastic information medium that reacts directly to the metabolic state of the emitter and therefore carries information about the emitter. III. An optical signal can be perceived by cells on a molecular level by a multitude of different receptors. IV. The information can in theory be processed by cells and metabolic changes in reaction to the signals can be observed. We demonstrate that all required elements have been observed. Most of them have important and well-known roles in cells. Therefore we suggest that our hypothetical model is a good explanation for light based cellular interactions.