Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Comparison between MAP and postprocessed ML for image reconstruction in emission tomography when anatomical knowledge is available

Previously, the noise characteristics obtained with penalized-likelihood reconstruction [or maximum a posteriori (MAP)] have been compared to those obtained with postsmoothed maximum-likelihood (ML) reconstruction, for emission tomography applications requiring uniform resolution. It was found that penalized-likelihood reconstruction was not superior to postsmoothed ML. In this paper, a similar comparison is made, but now for applications where the noise suppression is tuned with anatomical information. It is assumed that limited but exact anatomical information is available. Two methods were compared. In the first method, the anatomical information is incorporated in the prior of a MAP-algorithm and is, therefore, imposed during MAP-reconstruction. The second method starts from an unconstrained ML-reconstruction, and imposes the anatomical information in a postprocessing step. The theoretical analysis was verified with simulations: small lesions were inserted in two different objects, and noisy PET data were produced and reconstructed with both methods. The resulting images were analyzed with bias-noise curves, and by computing the detection performance of the nonprewhitening observer and a channelized Hotelling observer. Our analysis and simulations indicate that the postprocessing method is inferior, unless the noise correlations between neighboring pixels are taken into account. This can be done by applying a so-called prewhitening filter. However, because the prewhitening filter is shift variant and object dependent, it seems that MAP reconstruction is the more efficient method.
Time variation of CAPM betas across market volatility regimes

We investigate time variation in Captial Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) betas for Book-to-Market (B/M) and momentum portfolios across stock market volatility regimes. For our analysis, we jointly model market and portfolio returns using a two-state Markov-switching process, with beta and the market risk premium allowed to vary between ‘low’ and ‘high’ volatility regimes. Our empirical findings suggest strong evidence of time variation in betas across volatility regimes in almost all the cases for which the unconditional CAPM can be rejected. Although the regime-switching conditional CAPM can still be rejected in many cases, the time-varying betas help explain portfolio returns much better than the unconditional CAPM, especially when market volatility is high.
Adaptive sliding mode control for quadrotor attitude stabilization and altitude tracking

Adaptive control algorithms are of interest in flight control systems design not only for their capability to improve performance and reliability but also for handling aerodynamic parameter uncertainties, external disturbances and modeling inaccuracies. In this paper, a direct adaptive sliding mode control is developed for the quadrotor attitude stabilization and altitude trajectory tracking. First, developed controller is applied without considering disturbances and parameter uncertainties. After, a centered white gaussian noise with some parameter uncertainties are added to the considered output vector, mass and inertia matrix, respectively. The synthesis of the adaptation laws is based on the positivity and Lyapunov design principle. Numerical simulations are performed showing the robustness of the proposed control technique.
FIBRINOGEN PRECIPITATION BY STREPTOCOCCAL M PROTEIN

Precipitation of fibrinogen is a newly described property of streptococcal M protein (1). Heretofore the only known function of M protein has been related to determining virulence of Group A streptococci by impeding phagocytosis (2). Small amounts of M protein have been injected into normal mice and rabbits by the usual parenteral routes without evidence of toxicity (3, 4). In man, subcutaneous or intramuscular injections of M protein or streptococcal cell walls containing M protein have been innocuous (5). The present report is concerned with the production in mice and rats of renal lesions following intravenous injections of larger quantities of M protein. Production of serum sickness nephritis by intravenous injection of soluble antigen-antibody complexes in several species has been thoroughly described (6). Initiation of tissue damage in this disease appears to be the localization of preformed antigen-antibody complexes in the glomerttlar capillary bed. Indeed, several colloidal materials tend to localize in the renal glomerular capillary bed, a localization which is facilitated by blockade of the reticuloendothelial system (7). To produce renal lesions with antigen-antibody complexes, large amounts are necessary. In the mouse, McCluskey and Benacerraf used approximately 8 mg of antiovalbumin antibody per 25 gin mouse; amounts of rabbit antibovine serum albumin antibody used by Germuth to produce the pathological changes of serum sickness in the rabbit were of the same order of magnitude (8). Milligram quantifies of M protein, injected into mice and rats, were calculated to produce M-fibrinogen complexes in vivo comparable to that amount of antigen-antibody complexes necessary to produce nephritis. The lesions produced are described herein.
Sexually explicit media use and relationship satisfaction: a moderating role of emotional intimacy?

ABSTRACT Using a cross-sectional questionnaire design and a sample of 2284 coupled Croatian adults, this study investigated the association between Sexually Explicit Media (SEM) use and relationship satisfaction. Further, possible moderation of emotional intimacy on the relationship between SEM use and relationship satisfaction was investigated. Controlling for sociodemographic, psychosexual and relationship variables, no significant association between SEM use and relationship satisfaction was found. However, among men, a moderating effect of emotional intimacy was found. Thus, higher SEM use was found to be significantly associated with lower relationship satisfaction only among men who reported lower levels of emotional intimacy with their partner.
Connecting Absorptive Capacity and Open Innovation

Open innovation provides a general view how firms can benefit from external sources of knowledge. Absorptive capacity is crucial in explaining why some companies are much better than others in creating and capturing value from in-sourcing externally developed technology and from collaboration with innovation partners. Absorptive capacity and the outside - in dimension of open innovation are inevitably linked to each other. The purpose of this paper is to analyze how absorptive capacity and the outside-in dimension of open innovation can be linked to each other. We claim that recent insights from open innovation practices in companies entail several clues to enrich the concept of absorptive capacity and to improve our understanding how management decisions can strengthen a firm's ability to learn from its external environment.
Transmitting Sport Values: The Importance of Parental Involvement in Children’s Sport Activity

The transmission of positive values between parents and children is generally considered to be the hallmark of successful socialization. As this issue has been widely discussed but surprisingly little researched - especially with reference to core sport values - in this study we aimed to: 1) analyze adolescent athletes' acceptance of the sport values their parents want to transmit to them (i.e., parental socialization values) and 2) examine the relationship between parental involvement in children's sportive activity and adolescents' acceptance of their parents' socialization values. One hundred and seventy-two Italian adolescents (48.3% male, 51.7% female) who regularly practice team sports were asked to fill out a questionnaire which included the Youth Sport Values Questionnaire - 2 and the Parental Involvement in Sport Questionnaire. The dyadic correlations revealed that young athletes are in general willing to accept their parents' socialization values in regards to sport. Moreover, from the relative weight analysis (a relatively new data analysis strategy), it emerged that parental involvement characterized by praise and understanding is the most important predictor of adolescents' willingness to accept their parents' sport values. Implications of these results and further expansion of the study are discussed.
Laboratory simulations of fluid/gas induced micro-earthquakes: application to volcano seismology

Understanding different seismic signals recorded in active volcanic regions allows geoscientists to derive insight into the processes that generate them. A key type is known as Low Frequency or Long Period (LP) event, generally understood to be generated by different fluid types resonating in cracks and faults. The physical mechanisms of these signals have been linked to either resonance/turbulence within fluids, or as a result of fluids ‘sloshing’ due to a mixture of gas and fluid being present in the system. Less well understood, however, is the effect of the fluid type (phase) on the measured signal. To explore this, we designed an experiment in which we generated a precisely controlled liquid to gas transition in a closed system by inducing rapid decompression of fluid-filled fault zones in a sample of basalt from Mt. Etna Volcano, Italy. We find that fluid phase transition is accompanied by a marked frequency shift in the accompanying microseismic dataset that can be compared to volcano seismic data. Moreover, our induced seismic activity occurs at pressure conditions equivalent to hydrostatic depths of 200 to 750 meters. This is consistent with recently measured dominant frequencies of LP events and with numerous models.
Efficient Latent Link Recommendation in Signed Networks

Signed networks, in which the relationship between two nodes can be either positive (indicating a relationship such as trust) or negative (indicating a relationship such as distrust), are becoming increasingly common. A plausible model for user behavior analytics in signed networks can be based upon the assumption that more extreme positive and negative relationships are explored and exploited before less extreme ones. Such a model implies that a personalized ranking list of latent links should place positive links on the top, negative links at the bottom, and unknown status links in between. Traditional ranking metrics, e.g., area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), are however not suitable for quantifying such a ranking list which includes positive, negative, and unknown status links. To address this issue, a generalized AUC (GAUC) which can measure both the head and tail of a ranking list has been introduced. Since GAUC weights each pairwise comparison equally and the calculation of GAUC requires quadratic time, we derive two lower bounds of GAUC which can be computed in linear time and put more emphasis on ranking positive links on the top and negative links at the bottom of a ranking list. Next, we develop two efficient latent link recommendation (ELLR) algorithms in order to recommend links by directly optimizing these two lower bounds, respectively. Finally, we compare these two ELLR algorithms with top-performing baseline methods over four benchmark datasets, among which the largest network has more than 100 thousand nodes and seven million entries. Thorough empirical studies demonstrate that the proposed ELLR algorithms outperform state-of-the-art approaches for link recommendation in signed networks at no cost in efficiency.
Maps onto certain Fano threefolds

We prove that if X is a smooth projective threefold with b 2 = 1 and Y is a Fano threefold with b 2 = 1, then for a non-constant map f : X ! Y , the degree of f is bounded in terms of the discrete invariants of X and Y . Also, we obtain some stronger restrictions on maps between certain Fano threefolds. 1991 Mathematics Subject Classi cation: 14E99, 14J45
Estimated global resources needed to attain international malaria control goals.

OBJECTIVE To provide the international community with an estimate of the amount of financial resources needed to scale up malaria control to reach international goals, including allocations by country, year and intervention as well as an indication of the current funding gap. METHODS A costing model was used to estimate the total costs of scaling up a set of widely recommended interventions, supporting services and programme strengthening activities in each of the 81 most heavily affected malaria-endemic countries. Two scenarios were evaluated, using different assumptions about the effect of interventions on the needs for diagnosis and treatment. Current health expenditures and funding for malaria control were compared to estimated needs. FINDINGS A total of US$ 38 to 45 billion will be required from 2006 to 2015. The average cost during this period is US$ 3.8 to 4.5 billion per year. The average costs for Africa are US$ 1.7 billion and US$ 2.2 billion per year in the optimistic and pessimistic scenarios, respectively; outside Africa, the corresponding costs are US$ 2.1 billion and US$ 2.4 billion. CONCLUSION While these estimates should not be used as a template for country-level planning, they provide an indication of the scale and scope of resources required and can help donors to collaborate towards meeting a global benchmark and targeting funding to countries in greatest need. The analysis highlights the need for much greater resources to achieve the goals and targets for malaria control set by the international community.
Frequency Offset Tracking for OFDM Systems via Scattered Pilots and Virtual Carriers

In this paper, we propose a new carrier frequency offset (CFO) tracking algorithm for orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) systems. Assuming that the channel remains constant during two consecutive OFDM blocks, a CFO estimation algorithm is proposed based on the limited number of pilots in each OFDM block. Identiflability of this pilot based algorithm is fully discussed under the noise free environment. A weighted algorithm is then developed by considering both pilot carriers and virtual carriers. The asymptotic mean square error (MSE) of the proposed algorithm is provided, and simulation results clearly show the performance improvement of the proposed algorithm over the existing methods.
The moduli space of noncommutative vortices

The Abelian Higgs model on the noncommutative plane admits both BPS vortices and non-BPS fluxons. After reviewing the properties of these solitons, we discuss several new aspects of the former. We solve the Bogomoln’yi equations perturbatively, to all orders in the inverse noncommutivity parameter, and show that the metric on the moduli space of k vortices reduces to the computation of the trace of a k×k-dimensional matrix. In the limit of large noncommutivity, we present an explicit expression for this metric.
Generating scale-free networks with adjustable clustering coefficient via random walks

This paper presents an algorithm for generating scale-free networks with adjustable clustering coefficient. The algorithm is based on a random walk procedure combined with a triangle generation scheme which takes into account genetic factors; this way, preferential attachment and clustering control are implemented using only local information. Simulations are presented which support the validity of the scheme, characterizing its tuning capabilities.
A preliminary empirical evaluation of KooLKIDS: A school-based program to reduce early onset antisocial behaviour in children

ABSTRACT Background The aim of the present study was to conduct a preliminary empirical evaluation of the KooLKIDS program, a school-based intervention that utilises a combination of whole-of-class and individual sessions for young children with early onset antisocial behaviour. Method Trained facilitators delivered the 13-session program to a completer sample of 49 primary school-aged children (7–11 years) with early onset antisocial behaviour (42 boys and seven girls suspended from school or at risk for suspension) and their peers. Results Analyses showed significant postintervention reductions on many outcome variables, including teacher and child self-rated aggression and antisocial traits. Significant improvements were also found on measures of emotional intensity and peer acceptance. Acceptability and feasibility data were promising. Conclusion KooLKIDS has the potential for redirecting the trajectory of antisocial behaviour towards more positive social and emotional outcomes for these at-risk children.
Financial Liberalization and Credit-Asset Booms and Busts in East Asia.

This paper presents econometric evidence that sheds new light on the role played by financial liberalization in the Korean and Thai financial crises. Drawing on previous empirical studies, it argues that while the banking systems of both Korea and Thailand supported their remarkable long-run growth performance, they were ill prepared to face the risks emanating from financial liberalization. New evidence is then presented which shows that financial liberalization set in motion a classic credit-asset boom and bust cycle in Thailand and created other weaknesses in the Korean financial system, which made both economies vulnerable to the sentiments of foreign investors and lenders. When capital flows were reversed, the ensuing liquidity crisis triggered a bust that was further magnified by currency depreciations and interest rate hikes. In the light of this analysis, the paper argues that besides strengthening prudential regulation and accounting standards, there is a need for upgrading management systems and expertise to deal with financial risks and an important need for a more widespread appreciation of the risks associated with financial liberalization. Furthermore, there remain gaps in the international financial architecture that need to be addressed, such as the absence of an effective international lender of last resort. Given that these weaknesses may require a long time to address, it is argued that in the interim period financial restraints can act as a relatively cheap, effective and transparent safety device in safeguarding financial stability.
Macrophage polarization and HIV‐1 infection

Polarization of MP into classically activated (M1) and alternatively activated (M2a, M2b, and M2c) macrophages is critical in mediating an effective immune response against invading pathogens. However, several pathogens use these activation pathways to facilitate dissemination and pathogenesis. Viruses generally induce an M1‐like phenotype during the acute phase of infection. In addition to promoting the development of Th1 responses and IFN production, M1 macrophages often produce cytokines that drive viral replication and tissue damage. As shown for HIV‐1, polarization can also alter macrophage susceptibility to infection. In vitro polarization into M1 cells prevents HIV‐1 infection, and M2a polarization inhibits viral replication at a post‐integration level. M2a cells also express high levels of C‐type lectins that can facilitate macrophage‐mediated transmission of HIV‐1 to CD4+ T cells. Macrophages are particularly abundant in mucosal membranes and unlike DCs, do not usually migrate to distal tissues. As a result, macrophages are likely to contribute to HIV‐1 pathogenesis in mucosal rather than lymphatic tissues. In vivo polarization of MP is likely to span a spectrum of activation phenotypes that may change the permissivity to and alter the outcome of HIV‐1 and other viral infections.
Robust characterizations of k‐wise independence over product spaces and related testing results

A discrete distribution D over Σ1 ×··· ×Σn is called (non‐uniform) k ‐wise independent if for any subset of k indices {i1,…,ik} and for any z1∈Σ i 1 ,…,zk∈Σ i k , PrX∼D[X i 1 ···X i k = z1···zk] = PrX∼D[X i 1 = z1]···PrX∼D[X i k = zk]. We study the problem of testing (non‐uniform) k ‐wise independent distributions over product spaces. For the uniform case we show an upper bound on the distance between a distribution D from k ‐wise independent distributions in terms of the sum of Fourier coefficients of D at vectors of weight at most k. Such a bound was previously known only when the underlying domain is {0,1}n. For the non‐uniform case, we give a new characterization of distributions being k ‐wise independent and further show that such a characterization is robust based on our results for the uniform case. These results greatly generalize those of Alon et al. (STOC'07, pp. 496–505) on uniform k ‐wise independence over the Boolean cubes to non‐uniform k ‐wise independence over product spaces. Our results yield natural testing algorithms for k ‐wise independence with time and sample complexity sublinear in terms of the support size of the distribution when k is a constant. The main technical tools employed include discrete Fourier transform and the theory of linear systems of congruences. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg. , 2013
TAM 2-based Study of Website User Behavior — Using Web 2 . 0 Websites as an Example

In recent years, we have seen a return of web-based applications built with new ideas and new commercial models. The key momentum for the development of such applications is the Web 2.0 technology. Web 2.0 websites are dynamic and characterized by user interaction, sharing, and participation. The emergence of this new business model brings new business opportunities. In fact, website users are the main contributors of business opportunities. Thus, for operators of Web 2.0 websites to enjoy the business opportunities, understanding user behavior is of great importance. In this study, Technology Acceptance Model 2 (TAM2) is adopted as the research framework to explore relationships between constructs associated with Web 2.0 website user behavior. Data are collected through a questionnaire survey. Hypotheses are proposed and validated through Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in order to understand user acceptance of Web 2.0 websites. Results show that most of the hypotheses proposed on the basis of TAM2 are empirically supported. It can be inferred that the current Web 2.0 websites are generally accepted by users. Moreover, from the research results, users’ intentions and behavior associated with use of Web 2.0 websites can be understood; hence, the results serve as a reference for those planning to start a business on Web 2.0 websites. It is believed that Web 2.0 websites will continue to be the source of new business opportunities on the web.
Kernel Canonical Correlation Analysis and its Applications to Nonlinear Measures of Association and Test of Independence ∗

Measures of association between two sets of random variables have long been of interest to statisticians. The classical canonical correlation analysis can characterize, but also be limited to, linear association. In this article we study nonlinear association measures using the kernel method. The introduction of kernel method from machine learning community has a great impact on statistical analysis. The kernel canonical correlation analysis (KCCA) is a method that generalizes the classical linear canonical correlation analysis to nonlinear setting. Such a generalization is nonparametric. It allows us to depict the nonlinear relation of two sets of variables and enables applications of classical multivariate data analysis originally constrained to linearity relation. Moreover, the kernel-based canonical correlation analysis no longer requires the Gaussian distributional assumption on observations, and therefore enhances greatly the applicability. The main purpose of this article is twofold. One is to link the KCCA emerging from the machine learning community to the nonlinear canonical analysis in statistical literature, and the other is to provide the KCCA some further statistical applications including association measures, dimension reduction and test of independence without the usual Gaussian assumption. Implementation algorithms will be discussed and several examples will be illustrated.