Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Quaternion Estimation from Vector Observations using a Matrix Kalman Filter

A novel two-stage quaternion estimator from vector observations that is a synthesis between Wahba's approach and the Kalman filtering approach is presented. The first stage features an optimal denoising procedure of the elements of a time-varying noisy K-matrix. The second stage produces a quaternion estimate from the filtered K-matrix via any eigenvalue-eigenvector solver. This work's contribution consists in performing the denoising via Kalman filtering. For that purpose, a matrix Kalman filter (MKF) is developed, which has the advantage of preserving the natural formulation of the matrix plant equations. As a result, two aspects of a previous algorithm, called Optimal-REQUEST (OPREQ), are improved: the K-matrix update estimation stage uses a matrix gain rather than a scalar gain, and that gain is optimized with respect to the classical minimum-variance cost. This work assumes that the sensed lines of sight (LOS) are time invariant as seen in the chosen reference frame. This assumption fits in various operational mission architectures. An exact Kalman filter is developed that accounts for the state-multiplicative noise in the process equation. A reduced estimator is also developed assuming simple expressions for the filter covariance matrices. A constrained estimator, which enforces the symmetry and null-trace of the estimated matrix, is designed using the pseudomeasurement (PM) technique. Extensive Monte-Carlo simulations illustrate the performance of the novel filters with a spinning and nutating spacecraft (SC) as a case study. Extensive Monte-Carlo simulations show that the proposed estimator outperforms OPREQ. As illustrated by additional Monte-Carlo simulations, the constrained MKF exhibits a better transient and a better steady-state accuracy than the unconstrained filter for large initial disturbances in the symmetry and null-trace properties.
Cross-Subject Continuous Emotion Recognition Using Speech and Body Motion in Dyadic Interactions

Dyadic interactions encapsulate rich emotional exchange between interlocutors suggesting a multimodal, cross-speaker and cross-dimensional continuous emotion dependency. This study explores the dynamic inter-attribute emotional dependency at the cross-subject level with implications to continuous emotion recognition based on speech and body motion cues. We propose a novel two-stage Gaussian Mixture Model mapping framework for the continuous emotion recognition problem. In the first stage, we perform continuous emotion recognition (CER) of both speakers from speech and body motion modalities to estimate activation, valence and dominance (AVD) attributes. In the second stage, we improve the first stage estimates by performing CER of the selected speaker using her/his speech and body motion modalities as well as using the estimated affective attribute(s) of the other speaker. Our experimental evaluations indicate that the second stage, cross-subject continuous emotion recognition (CSCER), provides complementary information to recognize the affective state, and delivers promising improvements for the continuous emotion recognition problem.
On Landauer versus Boltzmann and full band versus effective mass evaluation of thermoelectric transport coefficients

transport is mathematically related to the solution of the Boltzmann transport equation, and expressions for the thermoelectric parameters in both formalisms are presented. Quantum mechanical and semiclassical techniques to obtain from a full description of the bandstructure, Ek, the density of modes in the Landauer approach or the transport distribution in the Boltzmann solution are compared and thermoelectric transport coefficients are evaluated. Several example calculations for representative bulk materials are presented and the full band results are related to the more common effective mass formalism. Finally, given a full Ek for a crystal, a procedure to extract an accurate, effective mass level description is presented. © 2010 American Institute of Physics. doi:10.1063/1.3291120
Emotion recognition from users' EEG signals with the help of stimulus VIDEOS

In this paper, we propose a novel approach to recognize users' emotions from electroencephalogram (EEG) signals by using stimulus videos as privileged information, which is only available during training. Firstly, five frequency features are extracted from each channel of the EEG signals, and several audio/visual features are extracted from video stimulus. Secondly, features are selected by statistical analyses. Then, a new EEG feature space is constructed using Canonical Correlation Analysis under the help of video content. Finally, a support vector machine is adopted as the classifier on the constructed EEG feature space. Experimental results on two benchmark databases demonstrate that video content, as the context, can improve the emotion recognition performance when employed as privileged information.
Microbiological assay of antibiotics.

PH. EUR. 2.7. 2 MICROBIOLOGICAL ASSAY OF ANTIBIOTICS The activity of antibiotics is estimated by comparing the inhibition of growth of sensitive micro-organisms produced by 3 doses of reference substance and 3 doses of the antibiotic to be examined. SERVICES • Method verification for raw materials • Method validation for finished products • Assay of raw materials and finished products • Single or multiple measurements • Automated system for diffusion assay reading • Analysis of high potent substances
Residual nerve block following intravenous regional anaesthesia.

Following release of the tourniquet after intravenous regional anaesthesia (Bier's block) there is a rapid return of sensation in the limb but patchy anaesthesia remains for a varying time. The duration of this residual nerve block was measured in five volunteers who each received five different agents: lignocaine, prilocaine, HS37, etidocaine and bupivacaine. The duration of block was found to be related to the duration of action of the drugs when used clinically. Analysis of venous blood from the blocked arm and the contralateral arm showed that considerable quantities of the injected drugs remain within the arm long after tourniquet release.
Frequent genetic alterations in flat urothelial hyperplasias and concomitant papillary bladder cancer as detected by CGH, LOH, and FISH analyses

Flat urothelial hyperplasia, defined as markedly thickened urothelium without cytological atypia, is regarded in the new WHO classification as a urothelial lesion without malignant potential. Frequent deletions of chromosome 9 detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) have been previously reported in flat urothelial hyperplasias found in patients with papillary bladder cancer. Using comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) and microsatellite analysis, these hyperplasias and concomitant papillary tumours of the same patients were screened for other genetic alterations to validate and extend the previous findings. Eleven flat hyperplasias detected by 5‐ALA‐induced fluorescence endoscopy and ten papillary urothelial carcinomas (pTaG1–G2) from ten patients were investigated. After microdissection, the DNA of the lesions was pre‐amplified using whole genome amplification (I‐PEP‐PCR). Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) analyses were performed with five microsatellite markers at chromosomes 9p, 9q, and 17p. CGH was performed using standard protocols. In 6 of 11 hyperplasias and 7 of 10 papillary tumours, deletions at chromosome 9 were simultaneously shown by FISH, LOH, and CGH analyses. There was a good correlation between FISH, LOH, and CGH analyses, with identical results in 6 of 10 patients. In addition to deletions at chromosome 9, further genetic alterations were detected by CGH in 9 of 10 investigated hyperplasias, including changes frequently found in invasive papillary bladder cancer (loss of chromosomes 2q, 4, 8p, and 11p; gain of chromosome 17; and amplification at 11q12q13). There was considerable genetic heterogeneity between hyperplasias and papillary tumours, but a clonal relationship was suggested by LOH and/or CGH analyses in 5 of 10 cases. These data support the hypothesis that flat urothelial hyperplasias can display many genetic alterations commonly found in bladder cancer and could therefore be an early neoplastic lesion in the multistep development of invasive urothelial carcinoma. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhancing SSADM with Disaster Recovery Plan activities

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to propose the integration of disaster recovery plan (DRP) objects development activities with the activities of the structured system analysis and design method (SSADM) methodology for developing an information system.Design/methodology/approach – A step‐by‐step correlation of the SSADM methodology with DRP development activities is performed. By following this approach, a smaller system for emergency operations (DRP) can be designed in parallel with that for normal operations. Furthermore, the implementation of a normal operations system based on the requirements analysis and of an emergency operations system based on the critical business functions may follow the same line of reasoning.Findings – The proposed enhancement brings benefits to both the organization and the system developer in terms of expenditure, self‐knowledge, personnel experience, reaction time, time and capability management and increase of competitiveness.Practical implications – The practical a.
Task-Oriented Performance Evaluation for Assistive Robotic Manipulators: A Pilot Study

Objective The objectives of this study were to evaluate the performance of commercially available assistive robotic manipulators (ARMs) user interfaces and to investigate the concurrent validity and sensitivity to change with task-oriented performance evaluation tools (TO-PETs) for ARMs. Design This was a nonblinded randomized controlled study with power-wheelchair users with upper-extremity impairments (N = 10). Participants were trained to use 2 ARMs with their respective original user interfaces (keypad and joystick) and evaluated the performance using TO-PET and the adapted Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT-ARM). Task completion time, ISO 9241-9 throughput, trajectory parameters, NASA-TLX, and questionnaires were the main outcome measurements. Concurrent validity and sensitivity were evaluated. Results Statistical differences were found in ISO 9241-9 throughput between the 2 user interfaces for the single motion tasks and WMFT-ARM. However, there was no statistical difference found on the self-reported perceived workload and ease of use. Moderate to high correlation was found between the TO-PET and WMFT-ARM (P < 0.001). The TO-PET demonstrated higher Cohen d (0.910–1.085) than the WMFT-ARM. Conclusions The findings of this study provide a preliminary comparison between 2 commercial ARMs with their different user interfaces among novice ARM users. Recommendations for training and evaluation were revealed.
Safe sets, network majority on weighted trees

Let G=(V,E) be a graph and let w:V→ℝ>0 be a positive weight function on the vertices of G. For every subset X of V, let w(X):=∑v∈Gw(v) . A non‐empty subset S⊆V(G) is a weighted safe set if, for every component C of the subgraph induced by S and every component D of G∖S , we have w(C)≥w(D) whenever there is an edge between C and D. If the subgraph G[S] induced by a weighted safe set S is connected, then the set S is called a weighted connected safe set. In this article, we show that the problem of computing the minimum weight of a safe set is NP ‐hard for trees, even if the underlying tree is restricted to be a star, but it is polynomially solvable for paths. We also give an O(nlog⁡n) time 2‐approximation algorithm for finding a weighted connected safe set with minimum weight in a weighted tree. Then, as a generalization of the concept of a minimum safe set, we define the concept of a parameterized infinite family of proper central subgraphs on weighted trees, whose polar ends are the vertex set of the tree and the centroid points. We show that each of these central subgraphs includes a centroid point.
Structural Characterization of a Minimal Peptide Antagonist Bound to the Extracellular Domain of the Corticotropin-Releasing Factor 1 ( CRF 1 ) Receptor

Antagonist Bound to the Extracellular Domain of the Corticotropin-Releasing Factor1 (CRF1) Receptor Michael F. Mesleh┴, William A. Shirley┴, Chris E. Heise, Nicholas Ling, Richard A. Maki and Richard P. Laura Departments of Medicinal Chemistry┴ , Pharmacology, Biological Chemistry, and Discovery Biology Neurocrine Biosciences Inc., San Diego, CA 92130 Running Title: NMR Studies of CRF1 peptide antagonist binding Address correspondence to: Richard A. Maki, Department of Discovery Biology, Neurocrine Biosciences, 12790 El Camino Real, San Diego, CA 92130, Tel. 858 617-7681, Fax. 858 617-7696, E-Mail: rmaki@neurocrine.com
Enhancement of Microstrip Monopole Antenna Bandwidth by Using EBG Structures

A novel compact design for UWB planar monopole antenna is presented in this letter. The basis for achieving the UWB operation is through using semicircular microstrip monopole antenna with circular modified ground plane. This shape produces bandwidth ranging from 3 to 35 GHz with discontinuities in certain bands from 7 to 10 GHz and from 12.5 to 17.5 GHz. The antenna size is around 27% of the size of a conventional rectangular microstrip patch antenna. Electromagnetic band-gap (EBG) structures are used for further improve the antenna performance. It is shown that by embedding metallo-EBG structure (MEBG) such as circular and square patches, it is possible to eliminate ripples in the operating band and still achieve a reduction in the antenna size to more than 60% from conventional patch. The final antenna design provides an impedance bandwidth (S11 <-10 dB) of more than 33 GHz with averaged radiation efficiency of 73%-74% and antenna gain of 6.5 dBi.
Manajemen Kearsipan Modern: Dari Konvensional ke Basis Komputer

Kebutuhan informasi dalam setiap kegiatan merupakan kebutuhan yang sama dalam kegiatan yang mendasar. Informasi dibutuhkan dalam kegiatan teknis sampai dengan kegiatan pengambilan keputusan oleh pimpinan. Salah satu sumber informasi adalah rekaman data-data dalam berbagai media yang disebut dengan arsip. Mengingat pentingnya peran arsip dalam mendukung aktivitas, maka perlu dilakukan pengelolaan arsip secara baik dan benar melalui manajemen kearsipan. Manajemen kearsipan yang efektif, akan dapat menyediakan data dan informasi dengan cepat dan tepat. Aspek teknologi informasi juga menyentuh dalam manajemen kearsipan. Dengan penggunaan media elektronik dalam pengelolaan arsip, dapat memberikan berbagai kemudahan dan keuntungan dalam penyediaan arsip. Dengan demikian pengelolaan arsip secara konvensional dan pengelolaan arsip secara elektronik (Electronik Filling System)perlu digunakan secara seimbang sehngga manajemen kearsipan dapat berjalan secara selektif dan efisien untuk mendukung aktivitas organisasi. Buku ini membantu para pembaca untuk mendapatkan pemahaman dalam pengelolaan arsip, baik secara konvensional maupun secara elektronik atau berbasis komputer.
Inhibition of soluble epoxide hydrolase as a novel approach to high dose diazepam induced hypotension.

CONTEXT Hypotension is one of the dose limiting side effects of benzodiazepines (BZDs), in particular of diazepam (DZP) which is still widely used in the clinic. Currently, only one FDA approved antidote exists for BZD overdose and novel approaches are needed to improve management of DZP overdose, dependency and withdrawal. OBJECTIVE Here, we hypothesized that increasing bioactive lipid mediators termed epoxy fatty acids (EpFAs) will prevent hypotension, as was shown previously in a murine model of LPS-induced hypotension. Therefore, we first characterized the time and dose dependent profile of DZP induced hypotension in mice, and then investigated the reversal of the hypotensive effect by inhibiting the soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), an enzyme that regulates the levels of EpFAs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Following baseline systolic BP recording using tail cuffs, mice were administered a sEH inhibitor (TPPU) before DZP and BP was monitored. Blood and brain levels of DZP and TPPU were quantified to examine distribution and metabolism. Plasma EpFAs levels were quantified to determine TPPU target engagement. RESULTS In this murine model, DZP induced dose dependent hypotension which was more severe than midazolam. The temporal profile was consistent with the reported pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of DZP. Treatment with TPPU reversed the hypotension resulting from high doses of DZP and decreased the sEH metabolites of EpFAs in the plasma demonstrating target engagement. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Overall, these findings demonstrate the similarity of a murine model of DZP induced hypotension to clinical observations in humans. Furthermore, we demonstrate that stabilization of EpFAs by inhibiting sEH is a novel approach to overcome DZP-induced hypotension and this beneficial effect can be enhanced by an omega three diet probably acting through epoxide metabolites of the fatty acids.
Providing secure mobile device pairing based on visual confirmation

With the increase of personal mobile devices, wireless short-range communications occur frequently and security risks thereon increase since wireless communication channels are inherently easy to eavesdrop on and be under control. In this paper, we investigate a key establishment protocol focusing two properties of wireless mobile communications: 1) a short-range communication without prior trust relationship and 2) a human user who is able to verify both a sender and a receiver devices at the same time. We then propose a simple device pairing method to verify that the shared (temporal) public keys, which are later used to generate a session key, are identical by presenting short text messages on secure side channel (e.g., visual and audio channel). It is easily and intuitively recognized by a human user.
Fragile Watermarking of Medical Image for Content Authentication and Security

Currently in the health environment, medical images are a very crucial and important part of the medical information because of the large amount of information and their disposal two-dimensional. Medical images are stored, transmitted and recovered on the network. The images users await efficient solutions to preserve the quality and protect the integrity of images exchanged. In this context, watermarking medical image has been widely recognized as an appropriate technique to enhance the security, authenticity and content verification. Watermarking image may bring elements of complementary research methods of classical cryptography. The objective of this paper is to develop a method to authenticate medical images to grayscale, detect falsified on these image zones and retrieve the original image using a blind fragile watermarking technique. We propose a method based on the discrete wavelet transform (DWT) for the application of content authentication. In our algorithm, the watermark is embedded into the sub-bands detail coefficient. The subbands coefficients are marked by adding a watermark of the same size as three sub-bands and a comparison of embedding a watermark at vertical (LH), horizontal (HL) and diagonal (HH) details. We tested the proposed algorithm after applying some standard types of attacks and more interesting. The results have been analyzed in terms of imperceptibility and fragility. Tests were conducted on the medical images to grayscale and color size 512 × 512.
An update of the general health status in the indigenous populations of Malaysia

Objectives. Health scenarios are constantly evolving, particularly in developing countries but little is known regarding the health status of indigenous groups in Malaysia. This study aims to elucidate the current health status in four indigenous populations in the country, who by and large been left out of mainstream healthcare developments. Methods. Participants were recruited from the Temuan, Jehai, Kensiu and Bidayuh indigenous groups throughout Peninsula Malaysia and Sarawak. Health parameters including body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, casual blood glucose and, total cholesterol levels were measured using established methods. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) levels were measured to assess oxidative stress status. Blood films were screened for evidence of microbial or parasitic infections and leukocyte differential counting was performed. Results. The Temuan and Bidayuh who are more urbanized, had significantly higher mean body weight, BMI, total cholesterol (p<0.05) and higher prevalence of obesity and hypercholesterolemia. Low cholesterol levels, elevated eosinophil counts and increased total IgE, indicative of immune responses to infection or allergy, were recorded in the rural Kensiu and Jehai. The Kensiu had higher levels of FRAP and lower levels of MDA, whereas the reverse was found in the Temuan. This suggests reduced oxidative stress in the Kensiu compared to the Temuan. Expected correlations between FRAP and MDA levels with age, were evident in Jehai. Conclusions. Our findings reflect a shifting health burden and an epidemiological transition, particularly in the Temuan and Bidayuh. These changes could be attributed to dietary habits, lifestyles and socio-economic factors brought about by urbanization.
Noise Levels of Neonatal High-Flow Nasal Cannula Devices - An in-vitro Study

Background: Excessive ambient noise levels have been identified as a potential risk factor for adverse outcome in very preterm infants. Noise level measurements for continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices demonstrated that these constantly exceed current recommendations. The use of high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) as an alternative non-invasive ventilation modality has become more popular in recent years in neonatal care. Objective: To study noise levels of two HFNC devices commonly used in newborns. As a comparison, noise levels of a continuous flow CPAP device were also studied. Methods: In-vitro study. The noise levels of two contemporary HFNC devices (Fisher & Paykel NHF™ and Vapotherm Precision Flow®) and one CPAP device (Dräger Babylog® 8000 plus) were measured in the oral cavity of a newborn manikin in an incubator in a quiet environment. HFNC flows of 4-8 l/min and CPAP pressures of 4-8 cm H2O were applied. The CPAP flow was set at 8 l/min as per unit practice. Results: Vapotherm HFNC generated the highest noise levels, measuring 81.2-91.4 dB(A) with increasing flow. Fisher & Paykel HFNC noise levels were between 78.8 and 81.2 dB(A). The CPAP device generated the lowest noise levels between 73.9 and 77.4 dB(A). Conclusions: Both HFNC devices generated higher noise levels than the CPAP device. All noise levels were far above current recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics. In light of the long duration of non-invasive respiratory support of very preterm infants, less noisy devices are required to prevent the potentially adverse effects of continuing excessive noise exposure in the neonatal intensive care unit.