Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A novel unbalanced multiple description coder for robust video transmission over ad hoc wireless networks

Robust transmission of live video over ad hoc wireless networks presents new challenges: high bandwidth requirements are coupled with delay constraints; even a single packet loss causes error propagation until a complete video frame is coded in the intra-mode; ad hoc wireless networks suffer from bursty packet losses that drastically degrade the viewing experience. Accordingly, we propose a novel UMD coder capable of quickly recovering from losses and ensuring continuous playout. It uses 'peg' frames to prevent error propagation in the High-Resolution (HR) description and improve the robustness of key frames. The Low-Resolution (LR) coder works independent of the HR one, but they can also help each other recover from losses. Like many UMD coders, our UMD coder is drift-free, disruption-tolerant and able to make good use of the asymmetric available bandwidths of multiple paths. The simulation results under different conditions show that the proposed UMD coder has the highest decoded quality and lowest probability of pause when compared with concurrent UMDC techniques. The coder also has a comparable decoded quality, lower startup delay and lower probability of pause than a state-of-the-art FEC-based scheme. To provide robustness for video multicast applications, we propose non-end-to-end UMDC-based video distribution over a multi-tree multicast network. The multiplicity of parents decorrelates losses and the non-end-to-end feature increases the throughput of UMDC video data. We deploy an application-level service of LR description reconstruction in some intermediate nodes of the LR multicast tree. The principle behind this is to reconstruct the disrupted LR frames by the correctly received HR frames. As a result, the viewing experience at the downstream nodes benefits from the protection reconstruction at the upstream nodes.
Factors Affecting Softlifting Intention of Computing Students: An Empirical Study

Softlifting, a form of software piracy, has received considerable attention in the information systems (IS) literature. However, existing studies have primarily focused on business students, academics, and managers. Softlifting practice of computing students has not been examined adequately. This paper aims to analyze the softlifting intention of computing students in Brunei Darussalam. A model was developed, which was tested using survey data collected from 205 respondents. Several important findings have emerged. First, softlifting intention of students varied depending on the type of task for which they intended to use pirated software. Second, attitude of students toward software piracy significantly affected their softlifting intention. Third, gender and family income also affected softlifting intention of students, but to a lesser extent. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Digital technology and the culture of teaching and learning in higher education

This paper discusses how the use of digital technologies may support a shift of cultural practices in teaching and learning, to better meet the needs of 21st century higher education learners. A brief discussion of the changing needs of the learners is provided, followed by a review of the overall impact of digital technologies on teaching and learning. In the final section we suggest how digital technologies may provide a more active and flexible learning experience by adopting a participatory pedagogical approach and by blending formal learning with informal learning.
Complaining intentions and their relationships to complaining behavior of academic library users in South Korea

Purpose – This study aims to investigate the influences of the selected antecedents on each type of complaining intentions and its relationship to complaining behavior of 582 university library users in South Korea.Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected through a survey, using a convenience sample of 582 dissatisfied university library users from five major universities located in Taegu Metropolitan City and Kyoung‐pook Province in South Korea. The sample was proportionate to general users in the university libraries in these areas.Findings – Perceived severity of dissatisfaction and personal norms had significant influences on the choice of negative word‐of‐mouth intention, direct and indirect voice intentions, and third‐party complaint intention. Societal benefits had significant influences on the choice of exit, negative word‐of‐mouth intention, and direct and indirect voice intentions. Difficulty of complaining and service importance had significant influences on negative word‐of‐mouth inte.
Provably Secure Identity-Based Identification Schemes and Transitive Signatures

Cryptography is an ancient craft, but relatively young as a true science. Techniques that offered a reasonable level of protection many centuries ago, are clearly insufficient to meet the communication needs of today’s digitalized society. Until the 1980s however, cryptographic design remained a craft, rather than a science: schemes were proposed with at most an intuition for their security, the sole criterion being resistance against attacks after years of exposure to experts. A more modern approach is that of provable security. This approach requires the designer of a scheme to first clearly state what is understood under the security of the scheme. Next, a mathematical proof is needed showing that the only way to break the scheme is either by attacking an insecure underlying cryptographic building block, or by realizing a mathematical breakthrough. Provable security has evolved from a toy for theoreticians to an important scheme characteristic that is taken into account in the decision of industry standards. In this thesis, we study the provable security of selected cryptographic primitives. We first distill useful yet feasible security notions, and subsequently prove the security of existing and new schemes under these notions. The first part focuses on identity-based identification and signature schemes. These are cryptographic primitives providing entity and message authentication, respectively, that allow the public key of a user to be simply his identity (instead of a random string that has to be securely attributed to the user). As a first step, we present a general framework of security-preserving transformations between related primitives. We then use this framework as a tool to prove (and in a single instance, break) the security of schemes from 13 different “families” that were proposed in the literature over the last two decades, but that lacked a security proof prior to our work. In the second part of this thesis, we discuss transitive signature schemes. These are signature schemes that allow to sign edges of a graph such that any user (and not just the signer) can, from two signatures on adjacent edges {i, j} and {j, k}, compute a third signature for the direct edge {i, k}. We answer an open question regarding the security of a particular scheme, and present a number of new, provably secure schemes offering efficiency advantages over existing schemes.
The Efficacy of Preemptive Milrinone or Amrinone Therapy in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

Acute deterioration in ventricular function and oxygen transport is common after cardiac surgery. We hypothesized that milrinone or amrinone may reduce their occurrence and catecholamine requirements and increase cellular enzyme levels in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass. In 45 patients, we randomly administered milrinone 50 &mgr;g/kg plus 0.5 &mgr;g · kg−1 · min−1 infusion for 10 h, amrinone 1.5 mg/kg plus 10 &mgr;g · kg−1 · min−1 infusion for 10 h, or placebo at release of aortic cross-clamp. Hemodynamic variables, dopamine requirement, and laboratory values were recorded. At the postoperative nadir, stroke volume index was higher in the Milrinone and Amrinone groups (mean ± sd, 27.8 ± 4.0 and 26.1 ± 3.2 vs 20.4 ± 5.1 mL · min−1 · m−2 per beat, P < 0.0001), and oxygen transport index was higher (354.7 ± 57.8 and 353.7 ± 91.2 vs 283.0 ± 83.9 mL · min−1 · m−2, P = 0.009). The postoperative dopamine requirement was less (6.6 ± 2.7 and 6.8 ± 2.6 vs 10.4 ± 2.0 mg/kg, P < 0.008), and postoperative serum lactate, alanine and aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatinine kinase, C-reactive protein, and glucose levels were less (P < 0.01). The mean postoperative heart rate was faster in the Milrinone group than in the Amrinone and Placebo groups (96.8 ± 10.3 vs 86.9 ± 9.5 and 87.8 ± 10.8 bpm, P < 0.01). Milrinone and amrinone administered preemptively reduce postoperative deterioration in cardiac function and oxygen transport, dopamine requirement, and increases in serum lactate, glucose, and enzyme levels, although milrinone may increase heart rate.
The antibody identification assistant (AIDA), an example of a cooperative computer support system

Performance when using a critiquing expert system was compared to performance with no decision support for two groups of medical technologists solving antibody identification cases. The treatment group had a significantly lower misdiagnosis rate than the control group across the four cases tested (p<0.000005). This is one of the few studies conducted to evaluate critiquing as a form of decision support for practitioners solving real-world tasks. In particular, there was a trend for improved performance even on a case for which the computer's knowledge was not fully competent. This is in contrast to the usual problems with people not being able to recover from faulty reasoning exhibited by a brittle, partially automated decision support system. Users of critiquing systems are doing the task themselves and given feedback in the context of what they are doing. Thus, the computer can monitor for errors in the human's reasoning, and the human has a basis for judging the computer's reasoning, resulting in cooperative problem-solving between the two decision makers.
Omnidirectional Distance Measurement based on Active Structured Light Image

Abstract: In this paper, we proposed an omnidirectional ranging system that is able to obtain 360 o all directional distances effectively based on structured light image. The omnidirectional ranging system consists of laser structured light source and a catadioptric omnidirectional camera with a curved mirror. The proposed integro-differential structured light image processing algorithm makes the ranging system robust against environmental illumination condition. The omnidirectional ranging system is useful for map-building and self-localization of a mobile robot. Keywords: omnidirectional image, ranging system, laser structured light그림1. 구조광 영상 기반 전방향 거리측정 시스템. Fig. 1. Omnidirectional ranging system based on structured light image. I. 서론이동로봇의 자율주행을 위한 위치추정과 지도작성을 위해서는 주변 물체까지의 거리를 측정할 수 있는 센서가 필요하다. 거리측정 방식으로는 초음파 센서, 스테레오 카메라, 레이저 스캐너 등 다양한 종류의 센서들이 널리 사용되고 있다[1-3]. 구조광 영상기반 센서는 레이저와 같이 주변조명과 확연히 구별되는 구조광을 조사해주고, 물체거리에 따른 구조광 영상의 왜곡을 측정함으로써 거리를 측정하는 방식으로서 거리 계산이 효율적이고, 한 장의 영상으로 폭 넓은 거리정보를 얻을 수 있으며, 주변조명 잡음에 상대적으로 강인하다는 장점이 있다[1,4-6]. 특히 근래에는 반도체 레이저 발생장치와 저렴한 영상센서의 등장으로 매우 경제적인 구현이 가능해졌다. 본 논문에서는 360도 전방향으로 수평 구조광을 조사하고, 전방향 거울(omnidirectional mirror)과 일반 카메라로 구성되는 전방향 영상 카메라를 통해 구조광 영상을 획득함으로써 360도 모든 방향의 거리를 기계적인 스캔을 통하지 않고 한 번에 측정할 수 있는 전 방향 거리센서에 대해 기술한다. 이동로봇은 이동공간상에서 전후좌우 어떤 방향으로든 운동할 수 있으므로 모든 방향의 거리정보는 이동로봇의 자율주행에 큰 도움이 될 수 있다. 본 논문에서 제안하는 구조광 영상기반 전 방향 거리센서는 한 번에 모든 방향의 거리를 동시 측정할 수 있으므로 매우 효율적이고,
Managing Small Group Instruction Through the Implementation of Literacy Work Stations

Background. Literacy work stations are one way to provide students a classroom environment that meets the characteristics of effective literacy classrooms, allows the teacher to work with small groups, and keeps students engaged in literacy throughout the day. Through modeling, a gradual release of responsibility, creating a risk free environment, independent work levels, materials, and clear, explicit expectations, students are more likely to successfully engage in literacy work stations and allow the teacher to work with students in small group instruction without interruptions. Purpose. The purpose of this study was to explore the feelings, beliefs and impressions of the teachers after implementing literacy stations as a form of management during the small group instruction block. Method. This case study examined four first grade teachers implementing literacy work stations in their classrooms. Through interviews and observations, this study looked at the implementation of literacy work stations and the teacher perceptions of managing small group instruction following the professional development. Results. Four themes emerged from this study: The “I Can. ” List, Schedule Issues, Group Numbers, and Professional Development: Teachers Seeking Feedback. Conclusion. Adding the “I can. ” lists to centers/stations allowed students to make decisions, work independently, increase engagement, and allowed the teacher to teach in the small group without interruptions. The number of students working together in literacy work stations, as well as their ability level, seemed to impact the quality of the small group instruction block based on student engagement data during observations. Schedule issues impacted the effectiveness of the small group instruction block and the implementation of literacy stations. Teachers believed that the quality of the small group instruction block could be improved with longer periods of uninterrupted instruction, a decrease in the flow of students in and out of the class, and the inclusion of a paraprofessional in the classroom. This study on literacy work stations also confirmed that 1 Address for correspondence: University of Nebraska at Kearney, 905 W. 25th Street, Kearney, NE 68849, tel. 308-237-0280, kracLcL@unk.edu.
A Unified Channel Thermal Noise Model for Short Channel MOS Transistors

A unified channel thermal noise model valid in all operation regions is presented for short channel MOS transistors. It is based on smooth interpolation between weak and strong inversion models and consistent physical model including velocity saturation, channel length modulation, and carrier heating. From testing for noise benchmark and comparing with published noise data, it is shown that the proposed noise model could be useful in simulating the MOSFET channel thermal noise in all operation regions.
A low-power CAM using pulsed NAND-NOR match-line and charge-recycling search-line driver

This paper proposes a low-power CAM using pulsed NAND-NOR match-line and charge-recycling search-line. The pulsed NAND-NOR match-line not only significantly reduces the match-line power by activating only a few match-lines by using NAND cells for several bits but also achieves high speed by using NOR cells for most bits. The charge-recycling search-line driver reduces the search-line power by recycling the charge of search-lines without precharging. The CAM chip with 128/spl times/32 bit is fabricated in a 0.25-/spl mu/m CMOS process with 2.5 V. It dissipates 17.2 fJ/bit/search. It consumes 31% power of the dynamic NOR-type CAM.
Trends in ectopic pregnancies in eastern saudi arabia.

Background. The objective of this study was to estimate trends in ectopic pregnancies (EP) in a tertiary care center of Eastern Saudi Arabia. Method. Information about patients with ectopic pregnancies who had been admitted to King Fahd Hospital of the University, AlKhobar, between January 2000 and 31 December 2011 was collected from a computerized hospital registry. Age-specific ectopic pregnancy incidence was calculated. The data was analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences), version 14.0 (Chicago, IL, USA). Results. There were 274 EPs during the study period; the yearly incidence in terms of 24,098 deliveries was 1.19%. The average age was 28.99 A 5.62 years. During a three-year period (2000–2002), the incidence was 0.92%; from 2003 to 2005, the incidence was 1.01%; from 2006 to 2008, the incidence was 1.51%; and from 2009 to 2011, the incidence was 1.35%. Age-adjusted ectopic pregnancy incidence rates steadily increased from 92.23 per 10,000 women years during the period 2000–2002 to 149.408 during the 2006–2008 period; since then, it has declined to 110.313 per 10,000 women years. Conclusions. Our study reveals that the incidence of EP has decreased from what it had been during the mid-2000s but has remained significantly elevated when compared to the early 2000s.
Individual Characteristics Influencing Teachers' Class Use of Computers

This study investigates the relationship between computer use in the classroom and influencing factors on an individual level. Subjects were 236 secondary school teachers familiar with computer use. First, tests of mean differences were performed to determine the differences between class users of computers and non-class users on the following individual characteristics: 1) age, 2) gender, 3) teaching a technology-related subject, 4) general computer attitudes, 5) attitudes toward computers in education, 6) technological innovativeness, and 7) general innovativeness. Except for the age variable, all factors were found to be significantly related to the dependent class use variable. In a next step, logistic regression was used to analyze the strongest predictors for computer use in the classroom. Technological innovativeness, teaching a technology-related subject, and computer experience were found to account for more variation in explaining the use of computers in the class than the computer attitude scales, general innovativeness, age, and gender.
Multimedia University: A Paperless Environment to Take the Challenges for the 21st Century

Predictability of absolute data transaction for real time information and reduction of incalculable data delivery time are the major factors to lead the global education as well as economic system towards a paperless environment. Some universities such as the University of Phoenix, Western Governors University, UK Open University, University of California, and Hong Kong University are playing a pioneering role to achieve this paperless environment in the respective campuses. Multimedia University (MMU) is a very distinctive university and is considered the jewel of Malaysia's bold plan to enter the world arena of 21st century information technology. The university is now operational with intelligent building systems, wireless technology system, satellite tele-education, a digital library, state-of-the-art learning, and research facilities, as well as an integrated computer education management system. MMU runs a paperless administration with the full-fledged e-governance having all these facilities. E-governance is about the use of information technology to raise the quality of the services organizations deliver for its management. The university also provides a Registry of Graduates homepage that not only eliminates fraud, but also complements the e-governance system, preparing itself for a truly web-based society. This article mainly aims to illustrate the development of higher education in the Multimedia University by establishing a paperless environment. (Contains 4 figures and 1 table.)
Accelerated Training with Microworlds for Command Decision Making

Microworlds, simple simulations that strip away tactical details, have been proposed as tools for training strategic-level command decision making. In microworlds, scenarios lasting days or weeks play out in a matter of hours. Though time acceleration has been studied in other training areas, little is known about its effects on decision making, especially regarding transfer of training. In the current study, participants were asked to perform a simple decision task modeled on peace support operations. Before performing the task, they received training on the task at a time compression ratio of either 15:1 or 5:1. While both groups achieved similar performance in training, the performance of the 15:1 training group improved when transitioning to the target task, whereas the 5:1 training group saw its performance decrease. The results suggest that time acceleration can benefit training for decision making, but more study is needed to determine optimal acceleration ratios.
The management of stage II supradiaphragmatic Hodgkin's disease at St. Bartholomew's hospital: A retrospective review of 114 previously untreated patients over 14 years

Between January, 1968 and July, 1981, 114 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed supradiaphragmatic Stage II Hodgkin's disease were treated at St. Bartholomew's Hospital on the basis of pathologic staging (PS) in 56 (47 IIA, 9 IIB) and clinical staging (CS) in 58 (23 IIA, 35 IIB). Complete remission (CR) was achieved in 104 (91%) patients, of whom 27 have relapsed. Ninety‐three patients remain alive, the cumulative predicted survival at 10 years being 81%, with a minimum follow‐up of 2 years and a maximum of 15 years. Mantle radiotherapy (RT) was prescribed for 76 patients, of whom 67 (88%) entered CR. The duration of CR correlated inversely with the presence of intrathoracic lymphadenopathy. No patient with PS IIA and a normal chest radiograph has yet relapsed, whereas in contrast, a rising probability of relapse is related to increasing volume of intrathoracic lymphadenopathy. Combination chemotherapy (CT) with mustine, vinblastine, procarbazine, and prednisone (MVPP) was prescribed to 38 patients, 27 with “B” symptoms and 11 Stage IIA patients with “unfavorable” features. CR was attained in 32 (84%) patients, of whom 24 subsequently proceeded to mantle irradiation. Only one of these has relapsed, compared to two of eight patients who did not receive adjuvant RT (P = NS). The duration of remission of patients receiving combined modality therapy (CT + RT) or CT alone was significantly longer (P < 0.05) than that of patients receiving RT alone, in spite of the fact that the CT + RT group comprised predominantly patients with unfavorable features.
Abnormal maternal body mass index and obstetric and neonatal outcome

Objective. The objective of this study is to examine the effects of abnormal maternal body mass index (BMI), either underweight or severe or morbid obesity (BMI 435), on obstetrical and neonatal outcomes. Methods. A three-year period (2.007–2.009) observational retrospective study was carried out in Granada (Spain). Women were categorized by first ten weeks of pregnancy BMI, according to World Health Organization (WHO) into three groups: underweight (518.5), normal (20–24.9), and severe or morbid obese (435). Obstetrical and neonatal outcomes were evaluated using normal group as reference after suitable adjustments for confounding factors. Results. 3.016 patients out of 12.781 single births were included. Maternal BMI classified 168 women (5.5 %) as underweight, 2.597 (86.1%) as normal, and 251 (8.3%) as severe or morbidly obese. As compared to normal women, underweight women were younger, and class II or III obese showed higher parity and higher incidence of hypertension disorders and Diabetes Mellitus. After controlling for these confounders, underweight women showed increased adjusted risk of oligohydramnios and low birth weight babies, and severe or morbidly obese women had an increased adjusted risk of Streptococcus Group B colonization, induction of labour, elective and emergency cesarean section, fetal macrosomia, fetal acidosis at birth, and perinatal mortality. Conclusions. Severe or morbid obesity were associated with an increased risk of adverse perinatal outcome and mortality and should be managed as high-risk pregnancies.