Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Enabling a reliable STT-MRAM main memory simulation

STT-MRAM is a promising new memory technology with very desirable set of properties such as non-volatility, byte-addressability and high endurance. It has the potential to become the universal memory that could be incorporated to all levels of memory hierarchy. Although STT-MRAM technology got significant attention of various major memory manufacturers, to this day, academic research of STT-MRAM main memory remains marginal. This is mainly due to the unavailability of publicly available detailed timing parameters which are required to perform a cycle accurate main memory simulation. Our study presents a detailed analysis of STT-MRAM main memory timing and propose an approach to perform a reliable system level simulation of the memory technology. We seamlessly incorporate STT-MRAM timing parameters into DRAMSim2 memory simulator and use it as a part of the simulation infrastructure of the high-performance computing (HPC) systems. Our results suggests that, STT-MRAM main memory would provide performance comparable to DRAM, while opening up various opportunities for HPC system improvements. Most importantly, our study enables researchers to conduct reliable system level research on STT-MRAM main memory, and to explore the opportunities that this technology has to offer.
Robust Multimodal Person Recognition Using Low-Complexity Audio-Visual Feature Fusion Approaches

In this paper, we first show the importance of face-voice correlation for audio-visual person recognition. We propose a simple multimodal fusion technique which preserves the correlation between audio-visual features during speech and evaluate the performance of such a system against audio-only, video-only, and audio-visual systems which use audio and visual features neglecting the interdependency of a person's spoken utterance and the associated facial movements. Experiments performed on the VidTIMIT dataset show that the proposed multimodal fusion scheme has a lower error rate than all other comparison conditions and is more robust against replay attacks. The simplicity of the fusion technique allows for low-complexity designs for a simple low-cost real-time DSP implementation. We then discuss some problems associated with the previously proposed design and, as a solution to those problems, propose two novel classifier designs which provide more flexibility and a convenient way to represent multimodal data where each modality has different characteristics. We also show that these novel classifier designs offer superior performance in terms of both accuracy and robustness.
Evolutionary clustering

We consider the problem of clustering data over time. An evolutionary clustering should simultaneously optimize two potentially conflicting criteria: first, the clustering at any point in time should remain faithful to the current data as much as possible; and second, the clustering should not shift dramatically from one timestep to the next. We present a generic framework for this problem, and discuss evolutionary versions of two widely-used clustering algorithms within this framework: k-means and agglomerative hierarchical clustering. We extensively evaluate these algorithms on real data sets and show that our algorithms can simultaneously attain both high accuracy in capturing today's data, and high fidelity in reflecting yesterday's clustering.
A Graphical Model Approach for Efficient Geomagnetism-Pedometer Indoor Localization

Geomagnetism is promising for indoor localization due to its pervasive presence, high signal stability and unnecessity of extra infrastructure support. It can be fused with a pedometer (step counter) to further improve accuracy. Traditional fusions based on particle filter, however, are computationally complex. Their accuracy is barely satisfactory for large open indoor spaces (such as airports or malls), mainly because particles cannot converge properly in environments with high degree of freedom. They often assume knowledge or explicit user step length input, which is inconvenient or difficult to achieve in reality.We propose Mapel, which efficiently fuses geomagnetism with pedometer based on graphical model without manual user input. Mapel is applicable to any indoor environment. We first discretize indoor map into closely spaced lattice nodes (separated by, say, 0.5~1 meter) in a graph, representing potential target locations. Using conditional random field (CRF), Mapel then conducts geomagnetism-pedometer fusion to estimate user location in the lattice. By jointly considering geomagnetism pattern and step counts, Mapel adaptively self-calibrates a step model for each user without explicit input. Extensive experiments conducted at our campus show that Mapel outperforms state-of-the-art schemes by a wide margin (cutting localization error by more than 40% and reducing computation time by more than 30%).
A polarisation agile T-shaped slot antenna fed from balanced microstripline

A microstrip fed T-shaped slot antenna element exhibiting polarisation agility is considered. The radiating element is located perpendicularly and in close proximity to a balanced microstripline which can support either an even-mode or an odd-mode. Predictions of the T-slot operation, at resonance, are obtained from a hybrid moment method analysis which incorporates spectral domain Green's functions. This analysis estimates the amount of power radiated from the axial leg of the T-slot which in turn allows an investigation to be carried out on the possible mechanisms for controlling the level of radiation. An experimental setup for testing the operation of the radiating T-slot is described. Measurements are taken of the power radiated from the axial leg of the T-slot in order to verify the theory. Further measurements demonstrate control of the co-polarised and cross-polarised radiation levels.
Mechanistic insights on 1-butene polymerization catalyzed by homogeneous single-site catalysts: a DFT computational study

Isotactic poly (1-butene) (iPB) is an interesting semi-crystalline thermoplastic material characterized by notable physical and mechanical attributes encompassing superior creep and stress resistance, elevated toughness, stiffness, and thermal endurance. These distinctive features position iPB as a viable candidate for specific applications; however, its widespread utilization is hindered by certain inherent limitations. Indeed, iPB manifests an intricate polymorphic behavior, and the gradual and spontaneous transition of the kinetically favored form II to the thermodynamically favored form I during aging introduces alterations to the material’s properties. Despite its potential, the attainment of iPB with an exceedingly high molecular mass remains elusive, particularly when employing homogeneous catalysts renowned for their efficacy in propene polymerization. In this study we analyze the mechanistic aspects governing 1-butene polymerization by using DFT calculations modelling the regioselectivity of 1-butene insertions and the termination reactions occurring after primary (1,2) and secondary (2,1) insertions. Finally, the isomerization pathways leading to the formation of 4,1 units in iPB samples synthesized by homogenous catalysts is also discussed. All these aspects, furnish a mechanistic picture of the main drawbacks of an “old” but still interesting material.
A model of job satisfaction of nurses: a reflection of nurses' working lives in Mainland China.

AIM This paper is a report of a study exploring nurses' views and experience regarding their working lives in Mainland China. BACKGROUND The widespread nursing shortage and high turnover has become a global issue. Job satisfaction among nurses is a key factor in nurse turnover. Although several models of job satisfaction have been suggested in Western countries, these require further development and testing in Mainland China, where the social context of the labour market is different. METHOD A survey design using questionnaires was adopted. A total of 512 hospital nurses in Beijing participated in the study in 2004, representing a response rate of 81%. FINDINGS There was a negative relationship between nurses' job satisfaction and intention to leave their current hospitals, which was mediated by age (P < 0.05). About 40% of the variance in job satisfaction could be explained by the set of independent variables including organizational commitment, occupational stress, professional commitment, role conflict, role ambiguity, educational level, age and working years (R2 = 0.396). Organizational commitment had the strongest impact on job satisfaction, which explained 31.3% of the variance in this, followed by occupational stress and role conflict (5.5% and 1.9% respectively). In addition, both nurses' role perception and actual role content influenced job satisfaction as well as occupational stress, role conflict and role ambiguity (P < 0.05). Nurses' educational level was also a factor related to role perception, professional commitment and role conflict (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Nurses' job satisfaction could be increased through promoting organizational and professional commitment and reducing occupational stress, role conflict and role ambiguity.
Development of porcine omentum fat derived extracellular matrix based scaffold and microbeads for soft tissue engineering

Trauma, tumor resection, change with age, burns, accidental injury and congenital abnormality causes soft tissue defects or voids within the dermis layer or subcutaneous layer of fat. These defects are due to the loss of fat that is difficult to self-repair. Tissue engineering can be viewed as the best methods for these defects by scaffold, biofilms and microbeads. In this study we prepared scaffold containing porcine adipose tissue derived extracellular matrix by freeze drying and composite microbeads of alginate and extracellular matrix by electrospraying respectively. Adipose tissue was decellularized by physical methods like homogenization, freez e thaw, centrifugation and chemical methods like acetic acid and SDS treatments. Then ECM scaffold was stained with Verhoeff's Van Gieson characterized by SEM, FTIR, DSC, and swelling ratio study. ECM scaffold shown hydrophilic porous structure and having antibacterial activity. The microbeads were characterized by SEM and FTIR. The beads are highly porous containing small microparticles of 7-8 µm.
The potential role of temporal dynamics in approach biases: delay-dependence of a general approach bias in an alcohol approach-avoidance task

Attractive cues have been shown to evoke automatic approach biases in tasks such as the Automatic Approach Task or Stimulus Response Compatibility task. An important but as yet not studied question is the role of temporal dynamics in such tasks: the impact of automatic processes may depend on the interval between cue and response. The current proof of principle study tested this hypothesized time-dependence of the approach bias. Secondary goals included the exploration of effects of alcohol cues and virtual hand stimuli. 22 participants performed an SRC task in which the delay between the presentation of the cue and the possibility to select the response was manipulated. Results revealed an approach bias that decayed over longer delays. Thus, the approach bias was indeed dependent on processes that are transiently evoked by cues. The results did not show significant effects of alcohol cues or a virtual hand. Temporal dynamics may be an essential feature of approach biases.
Possibilities of applying modern photogrammetry for the modernization of cadastral maps in Poland and Kazakhstan

The development of digital photogrammetric technology, supported by the appearance of high resolution digital aerial cameras and new satellite imaging systems, has resulted in the transformation of the quality of photogrammetric products and their wide distribution. This has created new areas of interests, including their use for cadastral works. This paper discusses the issues related to the creation and modernization of cadastral maps in Poland and Kazakhstan. Extensive works in this field are performed in both countries: in Kazakhstan, this work results from systematic changes and in Poland, they are performed within the Governmental Programme of Development of an Integrated Real Estate Information System (ZSIN). Different conditions and demands for cadastral maps exist in both countries and they may be met by different technical means. In Kazakhstan, high resolution satellite images are useful. Their use has been fostered by two Earth satellite observation systems which were introduced two years ago. In Poland the conditions and demands dictate the use of high resolution aerial photographs. This paper discusses also in more detail the status of these works and demands, the existing capabilities of satellite imaging systems and the technical and organizational conditions relating to the use of contemporary photogrammetry for the modernization of cadastral maps in both countries.
Smartphone-Enhanced Low-Threshold Intervention for adolescents with Anorexia Nervosa (SELTIAN) waiting for outpatient psychotherapy: study protocol of a randomised controlled trial

Introduction As smartphones are widely distributed nowadays, mental health apps seem to be a promising treatment tool. First self-help apps for eating disorders have been developed recently. However, studies assessing the efficacy of such apps are scarce. A smartphone app could prevent further weight reduction and increase commitment during waiting time for outpatient treatment, especially for adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN). In this study protocol, a randomised controlled trial to assess the efficacy of a smartphone-enhanced low-threshold intervention for AN during waiting time is described. Methods and analysis 30 adolescents with AN aged 12–19 years will be recruited at three child and adolescent psychiatry centres in Germany. All participants will be randomised to consultations only or consultations and the use of the Jourvie Research app. The app will be installed either on their own smartphone or on a research device. The participants will receive biweekly to monthly consultations for 3 months to review meal plans and weight management with a clinician. In addition, the Jourvie Research app for meal, behaviour and emotion protocolling will be provided to the intervention group. The protocols will be discussed with a clinician during the consultations. Dialectical behaviour therapy-informed skills for tension regulation to increase compliance with the meal plan will be taught in the intervention group and the app will remind the participant of a skill in a moment of need. The primary outcome is the age-adjusted and height-adjusted weight gain in standard deviation score after 3 months. Ethics and dissemination Results will be disseminated at conferences and through peer-reviewed publications. The trial was approved by the ethics review board of the local medical association, Mainz, Germany, under the reference number 837.338. 15. Trial registration number German clinical trials register, reference number DRKS00008946.
Unsupervised Action Classification Using Space-Time Link Analysis

We address the problem of unsupervised discovery of action classes in video data. Different from all existing methods thus far proposed for this task, we present a space-time link analysis approach which consistently matches or exceeds the performance of traditional unsupervised action categorization methods in various datasets. Our method is inspired by the recent success of link analysis techniques in the image domain. By applying these techniques in the space-time domain, we are able to naturally take into account the spatiotemporal relationships between the video features, while leveraging the power of graph matching for action classification. We present a comprehensive set of experiments demonstrating that our approach is capable of handling cluttered backgrounds, activities with subtle movements, and video data from moving cameras. State-of-the-art results are reported on standard datasets. We also demonstrate our method in a compelling surveillance application with the goal of avoiding fraud in retail stores.
Values and Psychotherapy: A Review of the Literature

This paper reviews theoretical literature and empirical investigations concerning the role of values in psychotherapy. Contrary to traditional psychoanalytic conceptualization, the psychotherapeutic relationship is viewed in terms of interpersonal attraction and interpersonal influence and some degree of therapist-patient value similarity is considered a prerequisite for positive attraction, effective communication, and influence of therapist over patient. The importance of matching therapist-patient pairs on the value dimension is stressed. Psychotherapy-analogue research is cited as a vehicle for exploring the role of values in psychotherapy.
A Discriminação da mulher negra no mercado de trabalho: uma análise comparativa do rendimento no trabalho de Bahia versus Brasil, nos anos de 2001 e 2015

O objetivo deste artigo assenta-se por investigar a discriminação no mercado de trabalho que afeta sobremaneira a população negra, mais especificamente, as mulheres negras, confrontando seus indicadores com o grupo populacional oposto, homens brancos, além das mulheres brancas e dos homens negros. Toma-se como recorte espacial o estado da Bahia, por se apresentar entre as Unidades da Federação com um quadro demográfico majoritariamente composto por afrodescendentes, contrapondo suas estimativas com a estatística brasileira nos anos de 2001 e 2015, a partir dos microdados da Pesquisa Nacional por Amostra de Domicílios (PNAD). A estratégia empírica engloba a correção do viés de seleção amostral, procedimento proposto por Heckman (1979) no formato cross-section, e por fim, a decomposição do diferencial de salários proposta por Oaxaca (1973) e Blinder (1973). Os resultados indicam, como preconizado pela literatura especializada, a existência de retornos salariais distintos, onde as mulheres negras do estado da Bahia experimentam uma depreciação salarial decorrente, em parte, da dupla discriminação de gênero e cor. As estimativas apontam, nos períodos analisados, a predominância de fatores discriminatórios na Bahia e no Brasil, mas com significativas reduções. Entretanto, esse recuo no efeito não explicado apresenta-se mais expressivo no estado da Bahia, se comparada às estimações realizadas para o conjunto do país.
Optimization models for cancer classification: extracting gene interaction information from microarray expression data

MOTIVATION Microarray data appear particularly useful to investigate mechanisms in cancer biology and represent one of the most powerful tools to uncover the genetic mechanisms causing loss of cell cycle control. Recently, several different methods to employ microarray data as a diagnostic tool in cancer classification have been proposed. These procedures take changes in the expression of particular genes into account but do not consider disruptions in certain gene interactions caused by the tumor. It is probable that some genes participating in tumor development do not change their expression level dramatically. Thus, they cannot be detected by simple classification approaches used previously. For these reasons, a classification procedure exploiting information related to changes in gene interactions is needed. RESULTS We propose a MAximal MArgin Linear Programming (MAMA) method for the classification of tumor samples based on microarray data. This procedure detects groups of genes and constructs models (features) that strongly correlate with particular tumor types. The detected features include genes whose functional relations are changed for particular cancer types. The proposed method was tested on two publicly available datasets and demonstrated a prediction ability superior to previously employed classification schemes. AVAILABILITY The MAMA system was developed using the linear programming system LINDO http://www.lindo. com. A Perl script that specifies the optimization problem for this software is available upon request from the authors.
A Novel TetR Family Transcriptional Regulator, SAV576, Negatively Controls Avermectin Biosynthesis in Streptomyces avermitilis

Avermectins produced by Streptomyces avermitilis are potent anti-parasitic agents that are useful in animal health care, agriculture, and the treatment of human infections. In a search for novel regulators that affect avermectin biosynthesis, comparative transcriptome analysis was performed between wild-type strain ATCC31267 and avermectin overproducing strain 76-02-e, revealing some differentially expressed genes. SAV576, which is downregulated in 76-02-e and encodes a TetR family transcriptional regulator (TFR), was shown to inhibit avermectin production by indirectly affecting the expression of ave genes. SAV576 directly repressed the transcription of its gene SAV576 and of adjacent genes SAV575 (encodes cytochrome P450/NADPH-ferrihemoprotein reductase) and SAV574. The SAV576-binding sites within the bidirectional SAV575-SAV576 promoter region were determined by DNase I footprinting assays. A consensus 15-bp palindromic sequence CCRTACRVYGTATGS was found in these binding sites and shown to be important for SAV576-binding activity. SAV575, an important target gene of SAV576, was shown to exert a positive effect on avermectin production. The study findings extend our limited knowledge of the complex regulation of avermectin biosynthesis and provide a basis for rational genetic manipulation of S. avermitilis to improve avermectin production through control of SAV576 and its target gene.
3D shape reconstruction of Mooney faces

Two-tone (ldquoMooneyrdquo) images seem to arouse vivid 3D percept of faces, both familiar and unfamiliar, despite their seemingly poor content. Recent psychological and fMRI studies suggest that this percept is guided primarily by top-down procedures in which recognition precedes reconstruction. In this paper we investigate this hypothesis from a mathematical standpoint. We show that indeed, under standard shape from shading assumptions, a Mooney image can give rise to multiple different 3D reconstructions even if reconstruction is restricted to the Mooney transition curve (the boundary curve between black and white) alone. We then use top-down reconstruction methods to recover the shape of novel faces from single Mooney images exploiting prior knowledge of the structure of at least one face of a different individual. We apply these methods to thresholded images of real faces and compare the reconstruction quality relative to reconstruction from gray level images.
Algebraic Framework for Linear and Morphological Scale-Spaces

This paper proposes a general algebraic construction technique for image scale-spaces. The basic idea is to first downscale the image by some factor using an invertible scaling, then apply an image operator (linear or morphological) at a unit scale, and finally resize the image to its original scale. It is then required that the resulting one-parameter family of image operators satisfies the semigroup property. Such an approach encompasses linear as well as nonlinear (morphological) operators. Furthermore, there exists some freedom as to which semigroup operation on the scale (or time) axis is being chosen. Particular attention is given to additive and supremal semigroups. A large part of the paper is devoted to morphological scale-spaces, in particular to scale-spaces associated with an erosion or an opening. In these cases, classical tools from convex analysis, such as the (Young? Fenchel) conjugate, play an important role.