Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Tensor Completion for Estimating Missing Values in Visual Data

In this paper, we propose an algorithm to estimate missing values in tensors of visual data. The values can be missing due to problems in the acquisition process or because the user manually identified unwanted outliers. Our algorithm works even with a small amount of samples and it can propagate structure to fill larger missing regions. Our methodology is built on recent studies about matrix completion using the matrix trace norm. The contribution of our paper is to extend the matrix case to the tensor case by proposing the first definition of the trace norm for tensors and then by building a working algorithm. First, we propose a definition for the tensor trace norm that generalizes the established definition of the matrix trace norm. Second, similarly to matrix completion, the tensor completion is formulated as a convex optimization problem. Unfortunately, the straightforward problem extension is significantly harder to solve than the matrix case because of the dependency among multiple constraints. To tackle this problem, we developed three algorithms: simple low rank tensor completion (SiLRTC), fast low rank tensor completion (FaLRTC), and high accuracy low rank tensor completion (HaLRTC). The SiLRTC algorithm is simple to implement and employs a relaxation technique to separate the dependant relationships and uses the block coordinate descent (BCD) method to achieve a globally optimal solution; the FaLRTC algorithm utilizes a smoothing scheme to transform the original nonsmooth problem into a smooth one and can be used to solve a general tensor trace norm minimization problem; the HaLRTC algorithm applies the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMMs) to our problem. Our experiments show potential applications of our algorithms and the quantitative evaluation indicates that our methods are more accurate and robust than heuristic approaches. The efficiency comparison indicates that FaLTRC and HaLRTC are more efficient than SiLRTC and between FaLRTC and HaLRTC the former is more efficient to obtain a low accuracy solution and the latter is preferred if a high-accuracy solution is desired.
Prefix computations on symmetric multiprocessors

We introduce a new optimal prefix computation algorithm on linked lists which builds upon the sparse ruling set approach of Reid-Miller and Blelloch. Besides being somewhat simpler and requiring nearly half the number of memory accesses, we can bound our complexity with high probability instead of merely on average. Moreover, whereas Reid-Miller and Blelloch (1996) targeted their algorithm for implementation on a vector multiprocessor architecture, we develop our algorithm for implementation on the symmetric multiprocessor architecture (SMP). These symmetric multiprocessors dominate the high-end server market and are currently the primary candidate for constructing large scale multiprocessor systems. Our prefix computation algorithm was implemented in C using POSIX threads and run on four symmetric multiprocessors-the IBM SP-2 (High Node), the HP-Convex Exemplar (S-Class), the DEC AlphaServer; and the Silicon Graphics Power Challenge. We ran our code using a variety of benchmarks which we identified to examine the dependence of our algorithm on memory access patterns. For some problems, our algorithm actually matched or exceeded the performance of the standard sequential solution using only a single thread. Moreover, in spite of the fact that the processors must compete for access to main memory, our algorithm still achieved scalable performance with up to 16 processors, which was the largest platform available to us.
Bridging the digital divide: Assessing teacher readiness for technology integration in madrasah ibtidaiyah

The swift evolution of educational technology has revolutionized learning accessibility, presenting unique challenges and opportunities, especially in remote areas. This study probes the technological readiness of Madrasah Ibtidaiyah (MI) teachers in these marginalized regions, using a quantitative ex post facto research design. A sample of 112 teachers, randomly selected, provided data via Google Forms and questionnaires, analyzed using two-way ANOVA and cluster analysis in SPSS 23. The research aimed to categorize teachers into five technology readiness profiles: explorers, pioneers, skeptics, paranoids, and slow adopters, based on optimism, innovativeness, discomfort, and insecurity. However, findings revealed only three distinct groups: explorers, pioneers, and slow adopters. Explorers showed high technological confidence but limited innovation engagement, while pioneers, despite readiness, faced challenges like scarce resources and insufficient tech knowledge. Slow adopters, largely older teachers, lagged in embracing new technologies. This lag can be attributed to adverse conditions and inadequate infrastructure, preventing full exploitation of digital tools in education. The study highlights the crucial need to overcome these barriers to enhance technology integration in MI schools, thereby improving educational outcomes in underdeveloped areas.
A Sketch Interactive Approach to Computer-Assisted Biology Instruction

Existing computer-assisted instructional (CAI) techniques for introductory biology are presently restrictive in scope, due to their focus on utilizing drills that aim for rote memorization instead of providing interaction that aids in intuitive understanding. In this paper, we discuss a prototype system for assessing learner understanding of introductory cell biology concepts using sketch-based interaction and recognition techniques.
Power control optimization for tone reservation based PAPR reduction algorithms

Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) systems are characterized by a high Peak to Average Power Ratio (PAPR), which results in performance degradation due to High Power Amplifiers' nonlinearities. Multiple algorithms have been proposed to deal with this problem, among them the Tone Reservation (TR) technique adopted in the second generation of Digital Video Broadcasting for Terrestrial transmission (DVB-T2). In this paper we analyze the power control schemes used in TR algorithms by assessing both their performance and complexity. We then propose two novel solutions to improve the performance without requiring additional complexity. The first is based on an enhanced selection of the peaks to be processed by the TR algorithm, and the second is based on a dynamic computation of the threshold used. We show that the proposed techniques outperform the TR algorithm adopted in DVB-T2 by 0.77 dB in terms of CCDF gain at 10-3 and by 0.33 dB in terms of Input Back Off (IBO) gain for an MER of -40dB.
Effect of generator temperature on steam ejector performance in renewable refrigeration cycle considering wet steam model and dry steam model

The rise in global warming has led to an increased utilization of cooling systems. High energy consumption associated with common refrigeration cycles not only contributes to air pollution but also intensifies the consumption of fossil fuels. Consequently, the imperative to conserve energy has become paramount in today's world. One of the methods to decrease energy consumption involves employing systems capable of harnessing waste heat from industries, solar energy, and other sources. The ejector refrigeration cycle (ERC) stands as an example of such systems. In present study, the impact of elevating the generator temperature on various aspects such as flow behavior in the ejector, aerodynamic shocks, entrainment ratio (ER), and entropy production was examined. The investigation encompassed both wet steam model (WSM) and dry steam model (DSM). Based on the findings, it was observed that with an increase in generator temperature, the ER decreases while the production entropy increases. In the WSM, the liquid mass fraction (LMF) also experiences an increase. Additionally, the Mach number distribution in the DSM surpasses that of the WSM and the temperature drop in the DSM is greater compared to the WSM. With the rise in generator temperature from 388 K to 418 K, both the DSM and WSM exhibit a decrease in ER by 52.9% and 58.7%, respectively. Furthermore, the production entropy experiences a substantial increase of 180% and 206% for the DSM and WSM, respectively.
Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews Autism as a neural systems disorder: A theory of frontal-posterior underconnectivity

The underconnectivity theory of autism attributes the disorder to lower anatomical and functional sys- tems connectivity between frontal and more posterior cortical processing. Here we review evidence for the theory and present a computational model of an executive functioning task (Tower of London) imple- menting the assumptions of underconnectivity. We make two modiﬁcations to a previous computational account of performance and brain activity in typical individuals in the Tower of London task (Newman et al., 2003): (1) the communication bandwidth between frontal and parietal areas was decreased and (2) the posterior centers were endowed with more executive capability (i.e., more autonomy, an adaptation is proposed to arise in response to the lowered frontal-posterior bandwidth). The autism model succeeds in matching the lower frontal-posterior functional connectivity (lower synchronization of activation) seen in fMRI data, as well as providing insight into behavioral response time results. The theory provides a uniﬁed account of how a neural dysfunction can produce a neural systems disorder and a psychological disorder with the widespread and diverse symptoms of autism.
Air quality in Norwegian cities in 2015. Evaluation Report for NBV Main Results.

This report documents the final deliveries of the first phase of development of the Norwegian Air Quality Planning Tool, also called “Nasjonalt Beregningsverktøy” or NBV. The main purpose of NBV is to provide a common methodological and information platform for local air quality modelling applications. The system is addressed to local and regional environmental authorities, air quality experts and consulting companies. It is intended to help them meet the requirements of current air quality legislation, to support local air quality planning and facilitate air quality good practices where people live. The report constitutes a comprehensive user guide for the NBV services available at http://www.luftkvalitet-nbv.no. It presents each of the different products developed at NBV, documents how the product has been calculated, provides recommendations on how best to use it for planning purposes and explains the main strengths and limitations of each product. The report also includes an extensive validation of the air quality information currently available at NBV.
Facilitating Mobile Music Sharing and Social Interaction with Push!Music

Push! Music is a novel mobile music listening and sharing system, where users automatically receive songs that have autonomously recommended themselves from nearby players depending on similar listening behaviour and music history. Push! Music also enables users to wirelessly send songs between each other as personal recommendations. We conducted a two-week preliminary user study of Push! Music, where a group of five friends used the application in their everyday life. We learned for example that the shared music in Push! Music became a start for social interaction and that received songs in general were highly appreciated and could be looked upon as 'treats'
Interactive Rehabilitation System for Improvement of Balance Therapies in People With Cerebral Palsy

The present study covers a new experimental system, designed to improve the balance and postural control of adults with cerebral palsy. This system is based on a serious game for balance rehabilitation therapy, designed using the prototype development paradigm and features for rehabilitation with serious games: feedback, adaptability, motivational elements, and monitoring. In addition, the employed interaction technology is based on computer vision because motor rehabilitation consists of body movements that can be recorded, and because vision capture technology is noninvasive and can be used for clients who have difficulties in holding physical devices. Previous research has indicated that serious games help to motivate clients in therapy sessions; however, there remains a paucity of clinical evidence involving functionality. We rigorously evaluated the effects of physiotherapy treatment on balance and gait function of adult subjects with cerebral palsy undergoing our experimental system. A 24-week physiotherapy intervention program was conducted with nine adults from a cerebral palsy center who exercised weekly in 20-min sessions. Findings demonstrated a significant increase in balance and gait function scores resulting in indicators of greater independence for our participating adults. Scores improved from 16 to 21 points in a scale of 28, according to the Tinetti Scale for risk of falls, moving from high fall risk to moderate fall risk. Our promising results indicate that our experimental system is feasible for balance rehabilitation therapy.
The Atmospheric Infrared Sounder Obs4MIPs Version 2 Data Set

The Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) Obs4MIPs (Observations for Model Intercomparison Projects) Version 2 data set includes monthly mean tropospheric air temperature, specific humidity, and relative humidity for each calendar month from September 2002 to September 2016, on a global 1° × 1° latitude‐longitude spatial grid and on the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project eight mandatory vertical pressure levels from 1,000 to 300 hPa. It also includes standard error and number of observations, for an estimate of AIRS data retrieval error and sampling uncertainty. Three new technical notes describe the data set. This data set is designed for Coupled Model Intercomparison Project climate model evaluation and has been published at Earth System Grid Federation data centers since April 2018. It adds new monthly mean tropospheric relative humidity data to Obs4MIPs and updates and extends the monthly mean tropospheric air temperature and specific humidity data in AIRS Obs4MIPs Version 1 data set. The data source for this data set is the AIRS Version 6 Level 3 standard monthly mean air temperature, specific humidity, and relative humidity data products in the “TqJoint” grids from the AIRS and Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit A combined physical retrievals. This paper documents this data set in terms of motivation for this data set, data description, data origin and processing procedures, major improvements from the previous version, and caveats for its use in climate model evaluation.
Maintaining Configurations of Evolving Software Systems

Software configuration management ( SCM) is an emerging discipline. An important aspect of realizing SCM is the task of maintaining the configurations of evolving software systems. In this paper, we provide an approach to resolving some of the conceptual and technical problems in maintaining configurations of evolving software systems. The approach provides a formal basis for existing notions of system architecture. The formal properties of this view of configurations provide the underpinnings for a rigorous notion of system integrity, and mechanisms to control the evolution of configurations. This approach is embodied in a language, NuMIL, to describe software system configurations, and a prototype environment to maintain software system configurations. We believe that the approach and the prototype environment offer a firm base to maintain software system configurations and, therefore, to implement SCM.
Entrepreneurship in Post-Conflict Transition : The Role of Informality and Access to Finance

The authors examine the factors affecting the transition to self-employment in Bosnia and Herzegovina, using the World Bank Living Standard Measurement Survey panel household survey for the years 2001-2004. In the beginning of the sample, the country changed its legal framework, with the primary aim to promote labor market flexibility and to encourage entrepreneurial activity. The analysis identifies individuals that switched to self-employment (employers and own account) during the sample period and the viability of this transition, in terms of business survival for more than one year. The results suggest an important role for financing constraints. Specifically, wealthier households are more likely to become entrepreneurs and survive in self-employment. After controlling for household wealth, having an existing bank relationship increases the likelihood of starting a business with hired employees and increases the chances of survival for the new entrepreneur. By contrast, overseas - and in some cases domestic - remittances decrease the likelihood of becoming an entrepreneur.
Genesis and Physical Behavior of Soils on Sandstone and Shale in Southern California

ABSTRACT Sandstone- and shale-derived soils are common in southern California where they function in watersheds, support wildland ecosystems, and are subject to residential and infrastructure development. Because little is known about these soils on texturally contrasting parent materials, this study was designed to interpret their pedogenesis and accompanying soil physical behavior. The study area is in the chaparral-covered foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, where the 400-mm mean annual precipitation comes as rain during the winter and summers are hot and dry. The soil on sandstone is an Alfisol with a fine-loamy argillic horizon and mixed mineralogy. It is leached of carbonates and has pH values of 5.7 to 6.8. The shale-derived soil is a clayey, smectitic Vertisol with accumulated calcium carbonate, indicating less leaching than the Alfisol. Soil organic carbon storage in the Alfisol (7.96 kg m−2) and Vertisol (9.87 kg m−2) is similar, but the Vertisol has additional carbon (4.88 kg m−2) in the form of calcium carbonate. The Vertisol has high shrink-swell potential, with coefficient of linear extensibility values mostly 0.09 to 0.12. The Alfisol has minimal shrink-swell potential. Available water capacities for the Alfisol soil horizons (4%–20%) range higher than those of the Vertisol (4%–11%), but the thicker regolith profile of the Vertisol means it can store more plant-available water overall. Field saturated hydraulic conductivity was similar for the soils during the wet season (0.2–1.6 cm h−1), but was higher in the extensively cracked Vertisol during the dry season. The available water capacities (4%) and saturated hydraulic conductivities (0.2–0.4 cm h−1) of the Cr horizons of both soils indicate that these weathered bedrocks are functional parts of the soil hydrologic system. The divergent properties of the soils are related to the nature of the parent material and its evolution in response to soil-water dynamics.
Algorithm 1 Type-Reduction of a T 2 FS to a Type-1 Fuzzy Set

Type-2 defuzzification is a two-stage process. Type-reduction, the first stage, gives rise to a type-1 fuzzy set known as the type-reduced set (TRS), which for the second stage is defuzzified to give a crisp number. This paper focusses on the TRS itself, which reveals a fascinating internal structure. We provide a description of and explanation for this structure, then go on to suggest how it may be exploited to enable the application of the Karnik-Mendel Iterative Procedure to generalised type-2 fuzzy sets.
Guest Editorial: Special Section on Information and Control Technologies in the Electrification of Transportation

E CONOMIC and environmental incentives, as well as advances in information and control technologies, are reshaping the traditional view of transportation systems. The emergence of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) has shown that electrification is a clear trend to improve performance, efficiency, and sustainability of transportation systems since electricity is becoming cleaner, greener, and more affordable through the introduction of renewable sources. With the introduction of advanced electric vehicles (EVs) into the transportation systems, there is an in-depth need to address the potential communication and control challenges posed by the penetration of these vehicles to the electricity grid, maintaining battery performance and managing the interaction between the battery and combustion engine in HEVs. Currently, the electrification of transportation is increasingly taking advantage of the opportunities afforded by advancement of information and control technologies to offer new and original functions and solutions. This Special Section on “Information and Control Technologies in the Electrification of Transportation” is focused on the development, adoption, and application of information and control technologies for transportation electrification. Topics that were announced to be addressed in this section included, but were not limited to, the following research areas and technologies: 1) information and control technologies for PHEVs and PEVs; 2) vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and vehicleto-home (V2H) interface, communication, and applications; 3) energy management systems for controlling the charging process of plug-in vehicles; 4) charge/depletion control for hybrid plug-in vehicles; 5) energy/battery management systems; 6) charging stations; level I, II, and III charging; wireless charging; fast and opportunity charging; 7) energy storage; hybrid battery/ultra-capacitor energy storage systems (ESSs); 8) network integration in transportation systems (heterogeneous networks and wired/wireless); 9) mass transit/public transportation electrification: standards; modeling, and simulations; 10) vehicle-grid communication and control; 11) security, reliability, and availability of electrified transportation systems. We received many papers from different research groups and variety of perspectives for this section. After a thorough evaluation of the papers by reviewers, the editorial board chose seven papers to appear in this section. These papers, as will be explained in more details in the following, are well-written
Micrometer-Scale Membrane Transition of Supported Lipid Bilayer Membrane Reconstituted with Cytosol of Dictyostelium discoideum

Background: The transformation of the supported lipid bilayer (SLB) membrane by extracted cytosol from living resources, has recently drawn much attention. It enables us to address the question of whether the purified phospholipid SLB membrane, including lipids related to amoeba locomotion, which was discussed in many previous studies, exhibits membrane deformation in the presence of cytosol extracted from amoeba; Methods: In this report, a method for reconstituting a supported lipid bilayer (SLB) membrane, composed of purified phospholipids and cytosol extracted from Dictyostelium discoideum, is described. This technique is a new reconstitution method combining the artificial constitution of membranes with the reconstitution using animate cytosol (without precise purification at a molecular level), contributing to membrane deformation analysis; Results: The morphology transition of a SLB membrane composed of phosphatidylcholines, after the addition of cytosolic extract, was traced using a confocal laser scanning fluorescence microscope. As a result, pore formation in the SLB membrane was observed and phosphatidylinositides incorporated into the SLB membrane tended to suppress pore formation and expansion; Conclusions: The current findings imply that phosphatidylinositides have the potential to control cytoplasm activity and bind to a phosphoinositide-containing SLB membrane.