Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Estimation de pose humaine et reconnaissance d'action par un système multi-robots. (Human pose estimation and action recognition by multi-robot systems)

L'estimation de la pose humaine et la reconnaissance des activites humaines sont des etapes importantes dans de nombreuses applications comme la robotique, la surveillance et la securite, etc. Actuellement abordees dans le domaine, ces tâches ne sont toujours pas resolues dans des environnements non-cooperatifs particulierement. Ces tâches admettent de divers defis comme l'occlusion, les variations des vetements, etc. Les methodes qui exploitent des images de profondeur ont l’avantage concernant les defis lies a l'arriere-plan et a l'apparence, pourtant, l’application est limitee pour des raisons materielles. Dans un premier temps, nous nous sommes concentres sur la reconnaissance des actions complexes depuis des videos. Pour ceci, nous avons introduit une representation spatio-temporelle independante du point de vue. Plus precisement, nous avons capture le mouvement de la personne en utilisant un capteur de profondeur et l'avons encode en 3D pour le representer. Un descripteur 3D a ensuite ete utilise pour la classification des sequences avec la methodologie bag-of-words. Pour la deuxieme partie, notre objectif etait l'estimation de pose articulee, qui est souvent une etape intermediaire pour la reconnaissance de l'activite. Notre motivation etait d'incorporer des informations a partir de capteurs multiples et de les fusionner pour surmonter le probleme de l'auto-occlusion. Ainsi, nous avons propose un modele de flexible mixtures-of-parts multi-vues inspire par la methodologie classique de structure pictural. Nous avons demontre que les contraintes geometriques et les parametres de coherence d'apparence sont efficaces pour renforcer la coherence entre les points de vue, aussi que les parametres classiques. Finalement, nous avons evalue ces nouvelles methodes sur des datasets publics, qui verifie que l'utilisation de representations independantes de la vue et l'integration d'informations a partir de points de vue multiples ameliore la performance pour les tâches ciblees dans le cadre de cette manuscrit.
Anti-smoking social norms are associated with increased cessation behaviours among lower and higher socioeconomic status smokers: A population-based cohort study

Background Social denormalisation of smoking can provide an environment that helps smokers to quit. This study examined which of three measures of anti-smoking social norms have the greatest influence on quitting-related cognitions and behaviours, and if this influence differs according to socioeconomic status (SES). Methods The Victorian Tracking Survey measured social norms among 1,348 (n(weighted) = 1,373) Australian adult smokers (aged 18–59) between 2012 and 2014, who were followed-up one week later. Weighted logistic regression analyses examined prospective associations of baseline subjective (family and friends’ disapproval of smoking), injunctive (feeling embarrassed about being a smoker) and descriptive norms (living with someone who tried to quit in the past 12 months), with quitting-related cognitions and behaviours at follow-up. Data were weighted to account for telephony status (landline or mobile phone), sex and age. Analyses were adjusted for demographic characteristics, addiction level, tobacco control policies and quitting-related outcomes measured at baseline. Differences in associations between lower and higher SES smokers (based on educational attainment and area-based disadvantage) were examined through interaction terms and stratified analyses. Results Sixty-four percent of participants (n(weighted) = 872) perceived disapproval from family and friends, 31% (n(weighted) = 419) felt embarrassed to be a smoker, and 11% (n(weighted) = 155) lived with a recent quitter. All three norms were associated with having set a firm date to quit in the next month and with engaging in smoking limiting behaviours. Embarrassment was also associated with an increased likelihood of talking about quitting and with making a quit attempt. Associations were mostly comparable for lower and higher SES smokers, with no significant negative rebound effects overall or among subgroups. Conclusions These findings indicate close others’ disapproval and feelings of embarrassment most strongly motivate smokers to try to quit. If tobacco control policies or media campaigns further denormalise smoking, there should be no reason for concern that such denormalisation undermines cessation behaviours.
The Acceptability Of Clitic And Tonic Accusative 3rd Person Pronouns In Written Brazilian Portuguese

Com base na Teoria de Principios e Parâmetros (CHOMSKY, 1995), apresento uma analise diacronica das interrogativas-Q do Portugues Europeu (PE) seguida de uma comparacao com as mesmas estruturas no Portugues Brasileiro (PB). Paralelamente, faco uma breve analise dos padroes de interrogativas-Q em entrevistas sociolinguisticas gravadas em dois momentos (anos 1970/80 e 2010). A hipotese inicial, a partir de descricoes recentes de base teorica, era a de que a ordem QVS no PE seria a mais frequente, enquanto a ordem QSV estaria sempre condicionada a presenca da clivagem. Sujeitos de 1a. e 2a. pessoas bem como os anaforicos seriam preferencialmente nulos no PE, um sistema descrito como de sujeito nulo consistente. Nesse aspecto, o PE teria um comportamento diferente do PB, que perdeu a ordem QVS, hoje atestada apenas em estruturas com verbos inacusativos, desde que o sujeito seja um DP lexical, uma mudanca paralela a remarcacao do valor do Parâmetro do Sujeito Nulo no PB. A amostra analisada para o estudo diacronico e constituida de pecas portuguesas escritas ao longo dos seculos 19 e 20, comparavel a amostra brasileira que nos serve de ponto comparacao. No caso das entrevistas sociolinguisticas, foram utilizadas as amostras NURC e Concordância para o PB, e Cordial-Sin e Concordância para o PE. A metodologia para o tratamento dos dados segue o modelo variacionista (TAGLIAMONTE, 2006; GUY E ZILLES, 2007). Os resultados mostram que o PE prefere o padrao QV, com sujeitos nulos; quanto aos sujeitos expressos, a ordem QVS e o padrao preferido; observamos, no entanto, uma curva descendente no ultimo quartel do seculo 20, sugerindo o inicio de uma competicao com QSV, desencadeada pela entrada da clivagem, a partir da segunda metade do seculo 19. Uma vez introduzida no sistema, a clivagem se expande para os tres padroes de interrogativas-Q, o que e confrmado pelos dados da fala contemporânea.
Species composition and diversity of epipelic algae in Balık Lake (Şavşat-Artvin, Turkey)

The species composition and diversity of the epipelic algae of Balik Lake were investigated between May and October 2008. A total of 39 taxa were determined, and Cyclotella meneghiniana, Craticula cuspidata, Closterium strigosum, Cocconeis placentula var. euglypta, and Amphora ovalis were the most conspicuous algae, regarding frequency of occurrence and relative abundance in the epipelic algal flora. While the highest total cell number of the epipelic community was 26,214 cells/cm2 in October, the lowest was 23,644 cells/cm2 in July. The highest species diversity index (H') value was 2.26, in June.
Public Service Motivation, Wasta and Employee Outcomes in the Saudi Public Sector

Public Service Motivation (PSM) is assumed to be a force for good in public organisations because it encapsulates attitudes and behaviours that are associated with higher levels of organisational commitment and job satisfaction. However, those positive effects may dissipate in challenging working environments characterized by powerful negative institutional forces. To explore these ideas, this paper presents an analysis of the separate and combined effects of PSM and wasta - an indigenous form of Arab nepotism - on employee outcomes using survey data from a large Saudi Arabian public organisation. The statistical results showed that both the rational - normative aspect of PSM (PSM1) and affective aspect of PSM (PSM2) are positively related to organizational commitment, job satisfaction, and intention to quit. Wasta had negative relationships with organizational commitment and job satisfaction and a positive relationship with intention to quit. Further analysis revealed that wasta also substantially weakens the positive PSM-outcomes relationship. It had negative moderating effect on the relationship between PSM1 and organizational commitment as well as for the PSM2 - orgnaizational commitment relationship. Wasta also had significant negative moderating effects on the relationship between PSM1 and job satisfaction as well as for the PSM2 - job satisfaction relationship. However, no significant moderation effect was found in the relationship between PSM1 and ITQ or for the PSM2-ITQ relationship. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings for public policy and administration are discussed.
Evaluation of the performance of MALDI-TOF MS and DNA sequence analysis in the 
identification of mycobacteria species

Background/aim Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry is an alternative way of identifying mycobacteria via the analysis of biomolecules. It is being increasingly used in routine microbiology practice since it permits early, rapid, and cost-effective identification of pathogens of clinical importance. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of phenotypic identification of mycobacteria by the MALDI-TOF MS MBT Mycobacteria Library (ML) 4.0 (Bruker, Daltonics) compared to standard sequence analysis. Materials and methods A total of 155 Mycobacterium clinical and external quality control isolates, comprising nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) (n = 95) and the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC) (n = 60), were included in the study. Results Identification by MBT ML4.0 was correctly performed in 100% of MTC and in 91% of NTM isolates. All of the MTC isolates were correctly differentiated from NTM isolates. Conclusion Based on our results, MBT ML4.0 may be used reliably to identify both NTM and MTC.
Light intensity output of visible light communication units and clinicians' knowledge and attitude among Riyadh private clinics

Background: With the evolution of bonded restorations, visible light-curing units became inseparable from the practice of dentistry. This study was designed to evaluate light intensity output of light-emitting diode (LED) units used in private clinics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and to investigate dentists' knowledge and attitude regarding the usage of light-curing units. Methodology: Two hundred randomly selected LED units' light intensity output was evaluated using Demetron® LED Radiometer-Kerr among evenly distributed private clinics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Three measurements of 20 s were taken, and average values were obtained. Furthermore, Output intensity measurements were subcategorized into three groups; <400 mW/cm2 – inadequate intensity, 400–850 – marginal intensity, and more than 850 – adequate intensity. In addition, 100 questionnaires of ten close-ended questions, investigating demographics, knowledge, and attitude toward visible light communication (VLC) units, were filled by the same private clinics' dentists and data were collected and analyzed by SPSS. The investigation was started after official processing and agreement achieved between the investigators and the private clinics' administrators to get their full cooperation. Results: Majority of dentists (78%) reported that they do not measure the light intensity output and 9% of the measured light intensity output of LED units was found of inadequate intensity, 40.5% of marginal intensity, and 50.5% of adequate intensity. Moreover, only 31% knew the minimum accepted wavelength of VLC units. Conclusion: Dentists among private clinics express poor knowledge, maintenance, and attitude toward VLC units. Educational programs are advisable, and routinely monitoring of VLC units is recommended.
OSSE Observations of the Crab Pulsar

Abstract : We present preliminary results of the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory OSSE observations of the Crab pulsar. The pulsar energy spectra and light curves are in general agreement with previous observations, validating the OSSE pulsar data acquisition modes and data analysis algorithms. The data suggest that the spectrum of the pulsar varies throughout the light curve. The "interpulse" region has a slightly flatter spectrum in the ~ 60-250 keV region and a slightly steeper spectrum at higher energies than the two main pulses. We find no evidence for any lines in the spectra with a typical sensitivity of about 10(-4) photons cm(-2) s(-1).
Technology Transition Pull: A Case Study of Rate Monotonic Analysis (Part 2).

Abstract : This case study reports on efforts to introduce a software technology, rate monotonic analysis, into several software-intensive programs at one site within a multinational firm. We describe lessons learned and success factors in the early use of rate monotonic analysis (RMA). We also present evidence that supports the requirement for an internal capability-in the form of technical expertise and infrastructure-to adopt and assimilate this new technology. Finally, the study applies the "whole product" concept for understanding technology adoption and use, showing how one firm compensated for lack of a whole product in its adoption of RMA.
Effect of physical activity among seniors participating in a cognitive health promotion program

Background: Several studies have demonstrated that physical activity (PA) could have an impact on the cognitive vitality of older adults. The Jog Your Mind program encourages participants to become more physically active and is designed to promote cognitive vitality. This study aims to explore: 1) the effect of the program on PA; 2) the moderating and mediating effects of PA on the program's impact on cognition; and 3) the correlation between PA and various cognitive domains in participants prior to the start of the program. Methods: In total, 294 individuals aged 60 and over participated in the cognitive vitality promotion program immediately for the experimental group or one year later for the controls. They were evaluated using cognitive tests, questionnaires (MoCA, MIA, CVLT, RBMT, MMQ, QAA, Stroop) and PA instruments (an adapted version of the CHAMPS physical activity questionnaire and the 2‐minute step test). Correlations were made at the start of the study and multiple regressions were carried out to measure the impact of the program on PA. Results: Participation in the program was associated with an increase in PA (p< 0.05). However, analyses did not show a significant moderating or mediating effect of PA on cognition (p< 0.05). At the start of the study, the most active subjects obtained better results in terms of memory strategies (p< 0.05). Conclusions: These results show that a multifactorial program, including the promotion of PA, can lead participants to become more physically active. Further studies should be implemented to determine whether the practice of PA has a moderating or mediating effect on cognitive vitality.
More than the tone: the Impact of Social Media Opinions on Innovation Investments

Social media is a valuable knowledge source for firm innovation. Extending the literature of both social media and innovation management, we attempt to examine how the valence and volume of user-generated content (UGC) from social media influence firm organizational innovation behaviours. In this research-in-progress study, we have reviewed the existing literatures and proposed three hypotheses. Firstly, we propose that valence of UGC from social media has a U-shaped relation with firm innovation investments. In particular, compared with neutral UGC, both negative and positive contents are found to push firms to invest more in innovation. Secondly, we argued that such a curvilinear relation is mitigated with an increase in volume of UGC. Last but not least, we argued that firm investment in innovation improves firm performance. To validate our proposed hypotheses, we have de-signed an innovative framework of sentiment analysis and collected a large dataset including 5-year panel with 886 listed firms and their relevant 6.2 million micro-blogs. The preliminary results from applying sentiment analysis into the collected dataset are reported in this study. In the future, we will validate our hypotheses with more sophisticated estimation models and strict robustness check. The potential contribution to theory and practice is also discussed.
Nitrogen Metabolism in Rhodospirillum rubrum: Characterization of Glutamate Synthase

Glutamate synthase, an enzyme involved in glutamate biosynthesis in nitrogen-deficient environments, has been purified 200-fold from the photosynthetic bacterium Rhodospirillum rubrum. The in vivo association of this NADPH-linked glutamate synthase with the photosynthetic membranes was suggested by its co-sedimentation with the chromatophore membranes and its ability to couple glutamate formation to light-generated reducing power. Although it was not homogeneous, the enzyme co-chromatographed with iron after three successive column chromatography steps and had the spectrum of a flavoprotein which suggests it may be an iron-sulphur flavoprotein similar to the enzyme from other prokaryotes. The Km values of glutamate synthase for NADPH, glutamine and 2-oxoglutarate were 15 μm, 130 μm and 35 μm, respectively. The molecular weight of glutamate synthase was salt-dependent in that the enzyme isolated in 0.4 m-NaCl showed a molecular weight of 840000, whereas in the absence of salt the molecular weight was about 260000. This phenomenon may be common to other glutamate synthases, since the molecular weight of this enzyme from Klebsiella pneumoniae was also influenced in a similar manner by NaCl.
Molecular Dynamics Study of Uniaxial Deformation in Perfect and Defective Aluminum

In materials, strength is usually controlled by the occurrence of grain boundaries, dislocations, voids, and other microstructural defects. molecular dynamics (MD) simulations with the embedded atom method potential have been employed to investigate the uniaxial tension and compression of single crystal aluminum with and without defects. In this paper, defect refers to a void or grain boundary. For perfect crystal aluminum, the ideal strengths and stress-strain curves obtained from the MD simulations agree well with those obtained by first principles calculations. The strength and ductility of Al decrease with the occurrence of void and grain boundaries. The effect of void size on the uniaxial stress-strain relations is investigated. Also, dislocation nucleation and emission from the void free surface are observed. In order to study the effect of a grain boundary, we generate a symmetric tilt grain boundary Σ5(310) and strain is imposed perpendicular to the boundary interface. We can clearly see that fracture starts in the grain boundary. The observed defect pattern is expected to provide some helpful insights into the damage mechanism of ductile materials at the microscale. The effects of temperature, strain rate, and crystalline direction on the ideal strength are also discussed.
Experience of the Employment Relationship after a Merger

Mergers and acquisitions create many management challenges. The development of a new employment relationship is one of the problems in such a situation. This paper investigates the influence of previous employment structures and the experience of previous employment relationships on the psychological contract, job satisfaction, job insecurity, and general health of employees in the context of a merged higher education institution. Employees of two previously independent universities that merged into one university completed a questionnaire. The two former universities had a very different history with very dissimilar employment relationships and experiences among personnel. This history influenced the experience of the employment relationship after the merger.
First Principles Study on Structural, Electronic, Elastic and Thermal Properties of Equiatomic MTi (M = Fe, Co, Ni)

We have investigated the structural, electronic, elastic and thermal properties of MTi (M = Fe, Co and Ni) using ab-initio full potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method within generalized gradient approximation (GGA) and local spin density approximation (LSDA). We have calculated the ground state and electronic properties such as lattice constant (a0), bulk modulus (B), pressure derivative of bulk modulus (B') and density of states at Fermi level N(E F) which are in good agreement with experimental and available other theoretical results. The elastic constants (C 11 , C 12 and C 44 ) and mechanical properties such as Poisson’s ratio ( σ ), Young’s modulus ( E), shear modulus ( GH), anisotropic factor ( A) are also calculated which are agree well with the experimental and other theoretical results. Ductility for these compounds have been analyzed by Pugh’s rule (B/ GH ratio) and Cauchy pressure (C 12 - C44 ). Our calculated results reveals that NiTi is most ductile amongst the MTi (M = Fe, Co and Ni) compounds.
An econometric model to estimate the value of a cryptocurrency network. The Bitcoin case

A blockchain is, in its essence, an unchangeable, inviolable and transparent database distributed among a network’s participants. Far from simply representing the latest innovation in ICT, blockchain could serve as a foundation for the development of new business models. Indeed, its distributed nature opens the door to the creation of a new economy characterized by greater decentralization, transparency, security and privacy. The most well-known example of blockchain is the digital currency (or cryptocurrency) Bitcoin, which aims to revolutionize the world of payments as we know it today. The remarkable appreciation of Bitcoin's value over the years has been examined by numerous studies, most of which trying to determine what are the drivers influencing its price. This study is intended to provide some economic prospects for the future of blockchain technology, with specific reference to Bitcoin. In particular, this paper is focused on identifying the costs and revenues that the Bitcoin network supports in order to ensure its operativity. On the basis of the results emerging from this analysis, the paper addresses further considerations about the nature of cryptocurrencies and the future trend of their prices.