Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Design and Implementation of a Range Trie for Address Lookup

The rapid growth of internet traffic and the eminent shift from IPv4 to IPv6 addresses indicated the need for an efficient address lookup method that can keep pace with the ever-increasing throughput demands. As current address lookup solutions tend to become the bottleneck in internet routing, the efficient Range Trie address lookup method was designed for a hardware implementation in this thesis. A complete Range Trie hardware design was derived that is parameterizable in many of its aspects. The proposed design offers the required properties of low latency, high throughput and low memory requirements, while these properties scale well with the increase of the address width and/or the lookup table size. After implementing the Range Trie using 90nm ASIC process, an operating frequency of 540MHz up to 694MHz was achieved for IPv4 addresses, depending on the lookup table size (256-512K entries). For IPv6, the throughput was sustained between 442MHz up to 571MHz. For both IPv4 and IPv6, an OC-3072 (160Gbps) wire speed is supported for the worst-case of 512K ranges. The memory requirements ranged from a few KBytes up to 24 MBytes, while the occupied area ranged from 0.014 cm2 up to 4.64 cm2 and the power consumption ranged from 0.2 W up to 31 W depending on the address width (32, 64 or 128-bits) and the lookup table size (256-512K entries).
Vertical Integration in Two-Sided Markets: Exclusive Provision and Program Quality

We study distribution and investment in content quality in a two-sided media market. We show that a content provider prefers to provide the premium content exclusively to a platform, no matter what the vertical structure of the industry is. However, a vertically integrated content provider has fewer incentives to invest in quality than an independent one. When downstream platforms are asymmetric, the platform with a competitive advantage on the advertising market gets the exclusive content and the content provider invests even less in quality when it is integrated with it. When we endogenize the vertical structure of the industry, we find that the content provider acquires the platform with a competitive advantage on the advertisers market. Vertical integration reduces both consumer surplus and total welfare. Our results suggest that, in merger control,authorities should carefully assess the effects of the integration on the incentives to invest in content quality. Moreover, a policy intervention at the distribution stage that enforces non-exclusive provision might have adverse effects on consumer surplus and welfare. Also advertising cap could have the effect of reducing quality.
Distributionally Robust Convex Optimization

Distributionally robust optimization is a paradigm for decision making under uncertainty where the uncertain problem data are governed by a probability distribution that is itself subject to uncertainty. The distribution is then assumed to belong to an ambiguity set comprising all distributions that are compatible with the decision maker's prior information. In this paper, we propose a unifying framework for modeling and solving distributionally robust optimization problems. We introduce standardized ambiguity sets that contain all distributions with prescribed conic representable confidence sets and with mean values residing on an affine manifold. These ambiguity sets are highly expressive and encompass many ambiguity sets from the recent literature as special cases. They also allow us to characterize distributional families in terms of several classical and/or robust statistical indicators that have not yet been studied in the context of robust optimization. We determine conditions under which distributionally robust optimization problems based on our standardized ambiguity sets are computationally tractable. We also provide tractable conservative approximations for problems that violate these conditions.
A convex approach to consensus on SO(n)

This paper introduces several new algorithms for consensus over the special orthogonal group. By relying on a convex relaxation of the space of rotation matrices, consensus over rotation elements is reduced to solving a convex problem with a unique global solution. The consensus protocol is then implemented as a distributed optimization using (i) dual decomposition, and (ii) both semi and fully distributed variants of the alternating direction method of multipliers technique - all with strong convergence guarantees. The convex relaxation is shown to be exact at all iterations of the dual decomposition based method, and exact once consensus is reached in the case of the alternating direction method of multipliers. Further, analytic and/or efficient solutions are provided for each iteration of these distributed computation schemes, allowing consensus to be reached without any online optimization. Examples in satellite attitude alignment with up to 100 agents, an estimation problem from computer vision, and a rotation averaging problem on SO(6) validate the approach.
FastProbe: Malicious user detection in Cognitive Radio Networks through active transmissions

Sensing white space channels to detect whether a particular channel is free or not is very crucial to the operation of Cognitive Radio Networks (CRNs). Cooperative sensing has been shown to improve the performance of channel sensing. However, cooperative sensing is susceptible to malicious users that may not faithfully follow sensing instructions to save energy and/or time, or to launch denial of service attacks against the network. In this paper, we propose a novel active transmissions based algorithm, FastProbe for detecting malicious users. FastProbe proactively detects malicious users before the CRN causes any interference to the Primary Users. Further, using active transmissions, FastProbe achieves higher detection accuracy while maintaining lower overheads when compared with existing algorithms. Simulations and experiments show that in the presence of malicious nodes operating under 2 different attack models, FastProbe reduces the throughput loss due to sensing by as much as 65% compared to existing algorithms.
Divided we stand: Tracking cell proliferation with carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester

Most techniques for assessing cell division can either detect limited numbers of cell divisions (bromodeoxyuridine incorporation) or only quantify overall proliferation (tritiated thymidine incorporation). In the majority of cases, viable cells of known division history cannot subsequently be obtained for functional studies. The cells of the immune system undergo marked proliferation and differentiation during the course of an immune response. The relative lack of an organized structure of the lymphohaemopoietic system, in contrast with other organ systems, makes lineage interrelationships difficult to study. Coupled with the remarkable degree of mobility engendered by recirculation, the differentiation occurring along with cell division in the immune system has not been readily accessible for investigation. The present article reviews the development of a cell division analysis procedure based on the quantitative serial halving of the membrane permeant, stably incorporating fluorescent dye carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester (CFSE or CFDA, SE). The technique can be used both in vitro and in vivo, allowing eight to 10 successive divisions to be resolved by flow cytometry. Furthermore, viable cells from defined generation numbers can be sorted by flow cytometry for functional analysis.
The wisdom of advertisers: mining subgoals via query clustering

This paper tackles the problem of mining subgoals of a given search goal from data. For example, when a searcher wants to travel to London, she may need to accomplish several subtasks such as "book flights," "book a hotel," "find good restaurants" and "decide which sightseeing spots to visit. " As another example, if a searcher wants to lose weight, there may exist several alternative solutions such as "do physical exercise," "take diet pills," and "control calorie intake. " In this paper, we refer to such subtasks or solutions as subgoals, and propose to utilize sponsored search data for finding subgoals of a given query by means of query clustering. Advertisements (ads) reflect advertisers' tremendous efforts in trying to match a given query with implicit user needs. Moreover, ads are usually associated with a particular action or transaction. We therefore hypothesized that they are useful for subgoal mining. To our knowledge, our work is the first to use sponsored search data for this purpose. Our experimental results show that sponsored search data is a good resource for obtaining related queries and for identifying subgoals via query clustering. In particular, our method that combines ad impressions from sponsored search data and query co-occurrences from session data outperforms a state-of-the-art query clustering method that relies on document clicks rather than ad impressions in terms of purity, NMI, Rand Index, F1-measure and subgoal recall.
The Offshore Wind Power Debate: Views from Cape Cod

Wind power resources on the eastern U.S. continental shelf are estimated to be over 400 GW, several times the electricity used by U.S. eastern coastal states. The first U.S. developer proposes to build 130 large (40 story tall) wind turbines in Nantucket Sound, just outside Massachusetts state waters. These would provide 420 MW at market prices, enough electricity for most of Cape Cod. The project is opposed by a vigorous and well-financed coalition. Polling shows local public opinion on the project almost equally divided. This article draws on semistructured interviews with residents of Cape Cod to analyze values, beliefs, and logic of supporters and opponents. For example, one value found to lead to opposition is that the ocean is a special place that should be kept natural and free of human intrusion. One line of argument found to lead to support is: The war in Iraq is problematic, this war is “really” over petroleum, Cape Cod generates electricity from oil, therefore, the wind project would improve U.S. security. Based on analysis of the values and reasoning behind our interview data, we identify four issues that are relevant but not currently part of the debate.
Author ' s personal copy Randomly oriented , upright SiO 2 coated nanorods for reduced adhesion of mammalian cells

Cell interactions with nanostructures are of broad interest because of applications in controlling tissue response to biomedical implants. Here we show that dense and upright SiO2 coated nanorods nearly eliminate cell adhesion in fibroblasts and endothelial cells. The lack of adhesion is not due to a decrease in matrix protein adsorption on the nanostructures, but rather an inability of cells to assemble focal adhesions. Using spatially patterned nanorods, we show that cells display a preference for flat regions of the surface. Our results support a model in which interfering with nanoscale spacing of ligated integrins results in reduced cell adhesion and subsequent cell death. We propose that dense monolayers of nanorods are a promising nanotechnology for preventing mammalian cell fouling of biomaterials. Published by Elsevier Ltd.
An improved CMA-based hybrid algorithm for blind channel equalization

Blind channel equalization has gained great importance in the world of communications. Among a large number of available blind equalization algorithms, the CMA (constant modulus algorithm) enjoys widespread popularity because of its LMS-like complexity and robustness However, as the need for faster blind equalization of a variety of physical channels (including mobile and wireless ones) increases, the search for more efficient and faster algorithms becomes paramount. This paper proposes one such hybrid CMA-based algorithm that exploits the advantages of the well-known concepts of signed-error update, pre-whitening and dithering. As such, it enjoys a simpler structure and faster convergence than other CMA-based algorithms, while retaining the robustness of the original CMA algorithm. The extensive simulation carried out here corroborates very well the claim that the proposed algorithm outperforms various existing algorithms, including the DSE-CMA and PW-CMA. An attractive feature of the proposed hybrid algorithm is that it is particularly suited for channels where ill-convergence needs to be treated with minimum additional complexity and without any loss of robustness.
RTVR-a flexible Java library for interactive volume rendering

This paper presents several distinguishing design features of RTVR-a Java-based library for real-time volume rendering. We describe, how the careful design of data structures, which in our case are based on voxel enumeration, and an intelligent use of lookup tables enable interactive volume rendering even on low-end PC hardware. By assigning voxels to distinct objects within the volume and by using an individual setup and combination of look-up tables for each object, object-aware rendering is performed: different transfer functions, shading models, and also compositing modes can be mixed within a single scene to depict each object in the most appropriate way, while still providing rendering results in real-time. While providing frame rates similar to volume visualization using 3D consumer hardware, the approach utilized by RTVR offers much more flexibility and extensibility due to its pure software nature. Furthermore, due to the memory-efficiency of the data representation and the implementation in Java, RTVR can be used to provide volume viewing facilities over low-bandwidth networks, with almost full control over rendering and visualization mapping parameters (clipping, shading, compositing, transfer function) for the user. This paper also addresses specific problems which arise by the use of Java for interactive visualization.
MinRoot and CMesh: Interconnection Architectures for Network-on-Chip Systems

— The success of an electronic system in a System-on-Chip is highly dependent on the efficiency of its interconnection network, which is constructed from routers and channels (the routers move data across the channels between nodes). Since neither classical bus based nor point to point architectures can provide scalable solutions and satisfy the tight power and performance requirements of future applications, the Network-on-Chip (NoC) approach has recently been proposed as a promising solution. Indeed, in contrast to the traditional solutions, the NoC approach can provide large bandwidth with moderate area overhead. The selected topology of the components interconnects plays prime rule in the performance of NoC architecture as well as routing and switching techniques that can be used . In this paper, we present two generic NoC architectures that can be customized to the specific communication needs of an application in order to reduce the area with minimal degradation of the latency of the system. An experimental study is performed to compare these structures with basic NoC topologies represented by 2D mesh, Butterfly-Fat Tree (BFT) and SPIN. It is shown that Cluster mesh (CMesh) and MinRoot schemes achieves significant improvements in network latency and energy consumption with only negligible area overhead and complexity over existing architectures. In fact, in the case of basic NoC topologies, CMesh and MinRoot schemes provides substantial savings in area as well, because they requires fewer routers. The simulation results show that CMesh and MinRoot networks outperforms MESH, BFT and SPIN in main performance metrics.
Subcentimeter-accuracy localization through broadband acoustic transducers

Local Positioning Systems (LPS) based on acoustic transducers (mainly ultrasonic) offer accurate localization in indoor environments. However, their performance is limited by transducers' frequency band and emission pattern. This paper shows how current accuracies can be improved through the use of broadband omnidirectional transducers, methods for orientation- independent accurate ranging and bidirectional emissions. We present the 3D-LOCUS LPS system that minimizes environmental effects such as temperature and air flows, attaining localization errors below 9 mm with a 90% confidence level in an area of 4 m2.
Retinal pigment epithelial cells promote spatial reorganization and differentiation of retina photoreceptors

Retina differentiation involves the acquisition of a precise layered arrangement, with RPE cells in the first layer in intimate contact with photoreceptors in the second layer. Here, we developed an in vitro coculture model, to test the hypothesis that RPE cells play a pivotal role in organizing the spatial structure of the retina. We cocultured rat retinal neurons with ARPE‐19 epithelial cells under various experimental conditions. Strikingly, when seeded over RPE cells, photoreceptors attached to their apical surfaces and proceeded with their development, including the increased synthesis of rhodopsin. Conversely, when we seeded RPE cells over neurons, the RPE cells rapidly detached photoreceptors from their substrata and positioned themselves underneath, thus restoring the normal in vivo arrangement. Treatment with the metalloproteinase inhibitor TIMP‐1 blocked this reorganization, suggesting the involvement of metalloproteinases in this process. Reorganization was highly selective for photoreceptors because 98% of photoreceptors but very few amacrine neurons were found to redistribute on top of RPE cells. Interestingly, RPE cells were much more efficient than other epithelial or nonepithelial cells in promoting this reorganization. RPE cells also promoted the growth of photoreceptor axons away from them. An additional factor that contributed to the distal arrangement of photoreceptor axons was the migration of photoreceptor cell bodies along their own neurites toward the RPE cells. Our results demonstrate that RPE and photoreceptor cells interact in vitro in very specific ways. They also show that in vitro studies may provide important insights into the process of pattern formation in the retina. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Simulation and interactive multi-dimensional visualization of cardiac dynamics using a patient-specific physics-based model

Study of cardiac dynamics requires analysis of multi-dimensional spatial and temporal variables and complex electromechanical coupling mechanisms. Therefore it requires careful attention to these factors in order to develop a model of the heart that realistically simulates cardiac function. Motion information can be extracted by examining and tracking twoto four-dimensional image data. Electro-physiological recordings can provide data on the conduction system of the heart. By effectively combining and representing such data, both qualitative and quantitative analyses can be carried out to reveal important dynamic changes during the heartbeat. To acquire an entire heart cycle from a patient is often not possible in clinical practice. Also, the parameters derived from the patient’s pre-operative image data cannot reflect changes in the patient’s cardiac morphology and physiology during or after operations. Normal functioning of the heart depends on healthy and synchronous conduction and contraction systems, which are influenced heavily by the anisotropic fiber microstructure of the heart. We have developed a method that incorporates muscle fiber track information, a physics-based deformable model and a classic electrical conduction system to realistically simulate cardiac dynamics. The simulation aims to accurately reproduce myocardial motion during the heartbeat. The simulation provides a multi-dimensional visualization of cardiac dynamics. In complex clinical procedures, such as intra-cardiac catheter ablation, a real-time dynamic heart model that displays the patient’s updated heart anatomy and physiology with low latency during the procedure provides an effective image-guided tool for optimal therapeutic results.
A method of indoor multi-path IR-UWB localization based on Bayesian compressed sensing

In order to solve the problem that high sampling rates of ADC which limit ultra-wideband (UWB) localization accuracy, a method of UWB localization based on Bayesian compressive sensing (BCS) was proposed. In the indoor multi-path environment, the transmission channel impulse response is estimated accurately using the proposed approach, then we adopt the method of direct path (DP) detection to estimate the time of arrival (TOA) which can be used to calculate the transmission delay, finally, the target location can be located by the weighted least square (WLS) algorithm. From the simulation results, we find that the proposed method compared with the traditional localization algorithm not only the localization accuracy is guaranteed, but also the ADC sampling rate is reduced, at the same time, it is advantageous that compressive sensing (CS) method applied in the UWB localization system.
Improved Character Recognition through Subclassing and Runoff Elections

A succinct representation of handwritten symbol curves can be obtained by computing truncated Legendre-Sobolev expansions of the coordinate functions. With this representation, symbol classes are well linearly separable, which yields fast and robust classification algorithms based on linear support vector machines. We have found that the presence of different variants of a symbol in the same class reduces linear separability and correct retrieval rates of the linear SVM classifiers. We show experimentally that by labeling the variants we obtain nearly 100% linearly separable classes and improve the correct retrieval rates by about 3%. This increases the number of classes, however, and the consequent effect of irrelevant classifiers. We introduce a general technique to correct this effect by replacing the conventional majority voting scheme with a runoff election scheme. We have found that such runoff elections further cut the top-1 mis-classification rate by about half.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, environmental tobacco smoke, and respiratory symptoms in an inner-city birth cohort.

STUDY OBJECTIVES Several studies have found associations between diesel exposure, respiratory symptoms, and/or impaired pulmonary function. We hypothesized that prenatal exposure to airborne polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), important components of diesel exhaust and other combustion sources, may be associated with respiratory symptoms in young children. We also hypothesized that exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) may worsen symptoms beyond that observed to be associated with PAH alone. DESIGN/PARTICIPANTS To test our hypotheses, we recruited 303 pregnant women from northern Manhattan believed to be at high risk for exposure to both PAH and ETS, collected 48-h personal PAH exposure measurements, and monitored their children prospectively. RESULTS By 12 months of age, more cough and wheeze were reported in children exposed to prenatal PAH in concert with ETS postnatally (PAH x ETS interaction odds ratios [ORs], 1.41 [p < 0.01] and 1.29 [p < 0.05], respectively). By 24 months, difficulty breathing and probable asthma were reported more frequently among children exposed to prenatal PAH and ETS postnatally (PAH x ETS ORs, 1.54 and 1.64, respectively [p < 0.05]). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that early exposure to airborne PAH and ETS can lead to increased respiratory symptoms and probable asthma by age 12 to 24 months. Interventions to lower the risk of respiratory disease in young children living in the inner city may need to address the importance of multiple environmental exposures.