Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Locality-Constrained Linear Coding Based on Principal Components of Visual Vocabulary for Visual Object Categorization

Through the linear correlation analysis between the local feature and its K-nearest-neighbor visual words and significance testing of locality-constrained linear coding, this paper finds that the fundamental reason for causing nonsignificance of the weight coefficient is the multicollinearity of K-nearest-neighbor visual words in Locality-constrained Linear Coding (LLC) scheme. Locality-constrained principal component linear coding can solve the multicollinearity and improves the classification accuracy, but it increases the time overhead of the coding. This paper presents an improved scheme called Locality-constrained linear coding based on the principal components of visual vocabulary. To determine the principal components of K-nearest-neighbor visual words of each local feature is simplified to only determine the principal components of visual vocabulary. Experiments have been conducted for comparing and evaluating the proposed method utilizing the Caltech-4 dataset. Experimental results show that locality-constrained linear coding based on the principal components of visual vocabulary reduces the time overhead and the same time it retains the advantages of Locality-constrained principal component linear coding.
Development and validation of a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the measurement of total plasma immunoglobulins in healthy loggerhead sea (Caretta caretta) and green turtles (Chelonia mydas)

The quantification of circulating plasma immunoglobulins represents a valuable diagnostic tool in human and veterinary immunology, although its application is very limited in reptile medicine to date. The objectives of our study were the development and standardization of a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) for the measurement of total plasma immunoglobulins (Igs; both IgM and IgY) in loggerhead sea turtles (LST; Caretta caretta; n = 254) and green turtles (GT; Chelonia mydas; n = 111), the establishment of reference intervals for Ig for both species, and the examination of associations between Ig and total protein (TP), condition index, and water temperature. The cELISA for Ig was successfully developed and optimized. Reference intervals for Ig were 0.38–0.94 g/dL in LST (median: 0.59 g/dL; range: 0.16–2.15 g/dL) and 0.40–0.85 g/dL in GT (median: 0.58 g/dL; range: 0.18–1.80 g/dL). In LST, there were positive linear relationships of Ig with TP, and TP with Ig and condition index, and a negative relationship of Ig with condition index. The positive linear relationships of Ig with TP, and TP with Ig were also identified in GT. These positive associations of Ig and TP were expected, as Ig represents fractions of TP, and TP reportedly increases with straight carapace length and weight. The negative association of Ig with condition index may indicate potential biological variations. The cELISA and reference intervals for total Ig of LST and GT presented herein have the potential to be useful as a diagnostic and research tool for sea turtle immunology.
Focus in Corrective Exchanges: Effects of Pitch Accent and Syntactic Form

A dialog consisting of an utterance by one speaker and another speaker’s correction of its content seems intuitively to be made more acceptable when the new information is pitch accented or otherwise focused, and when the utterance and correction have the same syntactic form. Three acceptability judgment studies, one written and two auditory, investigated the interaction of focus (manipulated by sentence position and, in Experiments 2 and 3, pitch accent) and syntactic parallelism. Experiment 1 indicated that syntactic parallelism interacted with position of the new (contrastive) term: nonparallel forms were relatively acceptable when the new term appeared in object position, a position that commonly contains new information (a ‘default focus’ position). Experiments 2 and 3 indicated that presence of a pitch accent and placement in a default focus position had additive effects on acceptability. Surprisingly, spoken dialogs in which the new term appeared in object position were acceptable even when given information carried the most prominent pitch accent. The present studies, and earlier work, suggest that corrected information can be focused either by prosody or position even in spoken English–a language often thought to express focus through pitch accent, not syntactic position.
Insider-secure Hybrid Signcryption SchemeWithout Random Oracles

Confidentiality and authenticity are two important security requirements in most secure systems. To efficiently provide data privacy (confidentiality) and (data/user) authenticity simultaneously, the notion of signcryption scheme was first introduced by Zheng in 1997. The security model for signcryption scheme was proposed by Baek et al. and An et al. in 2002 independently. Since then, many signcryption schemes were proposed; they are either a public-key signcryption or a hybrid signcryption. But, only few proposed signcryption schemes were supposed to be in the insider security, for example, Libert-Quisquater's signcryption schemes at PKC'2004 and SCN'2004 respectively and Yang-Wong-Deng's signcryption scheme at ISC'2005. Although all the above mentioned signcryption schemes were proved insider-secure against adaptive chosen ciphertext attack in the random oracle models, Tan showed that all the above mentioned signcryption schemes were not insider-secure against adaptive chosen ciphertext attack in 2005 and 2006 respectively. Up to our knowledge, it seems that none of insider-secure hybrid signcryption scheme is constructed without random oracles. In this paper, we proposed a hybrid signcryption scheme and showed that the proposed scheme is insider-secure without random oracles
Fast hierarchical importance sampling with blue noise properties

This paper presents a novel method for efficiently generating a good sampling pattern given an importance density over a 2D domain. A Penrose tiling is hierarchically subdivided creating a sufficiently large number of sample points. These points are numbered using the Fibonacci number system, and these numbers are used to threshold the samples against the local value of the importance density. Pre-computed correction vectors, obtained using relaxation, are used to improve the spectral characteristics of the sampling pattern. The technique is deterministic and very fast; the sampling time grows linearly with the required number of samples. We illustrate our technique with importance-based environment mapping, but the technique is versatile enough to be used in a large variety of computer graphics applications, such as light transport calculations, digital halftoning, geometry processing, and various rendering techniques.
MARKOV MODELS AND THEIR APPLICATION IN SPEECH RECOGNITION

In current speech recognition research the use of hidden Markov models becomes more and more successful. However, for those who know little or nothing about (hidden) Markov models, no accessible introduction exists to our knowledge. What is a Markov model? How can Markov models be used as recognizers? Why is a hidden Markov model hidden? In this article an attempt has been made to answer these questions step by step, using numerical examples to clarify the algorithms that are presented. The text has been divided in two major parts. In the fIrst part the theory of Markov models is presented. To increase the readability of this part no references are given; instead we have included a list of recommended literature. In the second part the application of hidden Markov models to speech IS demonstrated in a simple recognition task with ten Dutch digits.
Accurate real-time stereo correspondence using intra- and inter-scanline optimization

This paper deals with a novel stereo algorithm that can generate accurate dense disparity maps in real time. The algorithm employs an effective cross-based variable support aggregation strategy within a scanline optimization framework. Rather than matching intensities directly, the use of adaptive support aggregation allows for precisely handling the weak textured regions as well as depth discontinuities. To improve the disparity results with global reasoning, we reformulate the energy function on a tree structure over the whole 2D image area, as opposed to dynamic programming of individual scanlines. By applying both intra- and inter-scanline optimizations, the algorithm reduces the typical ’streaking’ artifact while maintaining high computational efficiency. The experimental results are evaluated on the Middlebury stereo dataset, showing that our approach is among the best for all real-time approaches. We implement the algorithm on a commodity graphics card with CUDA architecture, running at about 35 fames/s for a typical stereo pair with a resolution of 384×288 and 16 disparity levels.
Dual-domain image denoising

Image denoising methods have been implemented in both spatial and transform domains. Each domain has its advantages and shortcomings, which can be complemented by each other. State-of-the-art methods like block-matching 3D filtering (BM3D) therefore combine both domains. However, implementation of such methods is not trivial. We offer a hybrid method that is surprisingly easy to implement and yet rivals BM3D in quality.
HER3 Is a Determinant for Poor Prognosis in Melanoma

Purpose: The epidermal growth factor receptor family member HER3 is overexpressed in diverse human cancers and has been associated with poor prognosis in breast, lung, and ovarian cancer. However, the relevance of HER3 with regard to its prognostic significance and function in primary melanoma and metastases remains largely elusive. Experimental Design: HER3 protein expression was analyzed immunohistochemically using tissue microarrays of 130 primary melanoma and 87 metastases relative to established clinical variables. The possibility of an influence of HER3 on melanoma cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and chemotherapy-induced apoptosis was studied in human melanoma cell lines. Results: We show that HER3 is frequently expressed in malignant melanoma and metastases at elevated levels. High HER3 expression may serve as a prognostic marker because it correlates with cell proliferation, tumor progression, and reduced patient survival. Suppression of HER3 expression by RNA interference reduces melanoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro. In addition, down-regulation of HER3 synergistically enhances dacarbazine-induced apoptosis. Moreover, monoclonal antibodies specific for the extracellular portion of HER3 efficiently block heregulin-induced proliferation, migration, and invasion of melanoma cell lines. Conclusion: Our results provide novel insights into the role of HER3 in melanoma and point out new possibilities for therapeutic intervention.
Unveiling the Hidden Bat Diversity of a Neotropical Montane Forest

Mountain environments, characterized by high levels of endemism, are at risk of experiencing significant biodiversity loss due to current trends in global warming. While many acknowledge their importance and vulnerability, these ecosystems still remain poorly studied, particularly for taxa that are difficult to sample such as bats. Aiming to estimate the amount of cryptic diversity among bats of a Neotropical montane cloud forest in Talamanca Range—south-east Central America—, we performed a 15-night sampling campaign, which resulted in 90 captured bats belonging to 8 species. We sequenced their mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and screened their inter- and intraspecific genetic variation. Phylogenetic relations with conspecifics and closely related species from other geographic regions were established using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian inference methods, as well as median-joining haplotype networks. Mitochondrial lineages highly divergent from hitherto characterized populations (> 9% COI dissimilarity) were found in Myotis oxyotus and Hylonycteris underwoodi. Sturnira burtonlimi and M. keaysi also showed distinct mitochondrial structure with sibling species and/or populations. These results suggest that mountains in the region hold a high degree of endemicity potential that has previously been ignored in bats. They also warn of the high extinction risk montane bats may be facing due to climatic change, particularly in isolated mountain systems like Talamanca Range.
Using the Linear Probability Model to Estimate Impacts on Binary Outcomes in Randomized Controlled Trials

In this brief we examine methodological criticisms of the Linear Probability Model (LPM) in general and conclude that these criticisms are not relevant to experimental impact analysis. We also point out that the LPM has advantages in terms of implementation and interpretation that make it an appealing option for researchers conducting experimental impact analysis. An important caveat on these conclusions is that outside of the context of impact analysis, there can be good reasons to avoid using the LPM for binary outcomes.
An integrated multi-sensing framework for pervasive healthcare monitoring

Pervasive healthcare provides an effective solution for monitoring the wellbeing of elderly, quantifying post-operative patient recovery and monitoring the progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's. However, developing functional pervasive systems is a complex task that entails the creation of appropriate sensing platforms, integration of versatile technologies for data stream management and development of elaborate data analysis techniques. This paper describes a complete and an integrated multi-sensing framework, with which the sensing platforms, data fusion and analysis algorithms, and software architecture suitable for pervasive healthcare applications are presented. The potential value of the proposed framework for pervasive patient monitoring is demonstrated and initial results obtained from our current research experiences are described.
Your Best Self Helps Reveal Your True Self

How does trying to make a positive impression on others impact the accuracy of impressions? In an experimental study, the impact of positive self-presentation on the accuracy of impressions was examined by randomly assigning targets to either “put their best face forward” or to a control condition with low self-presentation demands. First, self-presenters successfully elicited more positive impressions from others, being viewed as more normative and better liked than those less motivated to self-present. Importantly, self-presenters were also viewed with greater accuracy than control targets, being perceived more in line with their self-reported distinctive personality traits and their IQ test scores. Mediational analyses were consistent with the hypothesis that self-presenters were more engaging than controls, which in turn led these individuals to be viewed with greater distinctive self–other agreement. In sum, positive self-presentation facilitates more accurate impressions, indicating that putting one’s best self forward helps reveal one’s true self.
The Use of Public Language in Strategy

We review the literature on public language used as a strategic tool to engage stakeholders and competitors. We define public language as words and text issued by an organization with specific strategic intent. Our review classifies studies into four typical settings for the strategic use of public language: entrepreneurial, image threatening, financial, and competitive. Our review highlights the disparate theoretical backdrops across the four settings coupled with very limited prior attempts to integrate across these settings. We propose an integrated model that synthesizes the antecedents, consequences, and contingencies of the strategic use of public language and highlight several knowledge gaps. We end with a discussion of promising directions for future research.
K+ Channel Inhibition Differentially Regulates Migration of Intestinal Epithelial Cells in Inflamed vs. Non-Inflamed Conditions in a PI3K/Akt-Mediated Manner

Background Potassium channels have been shown to determine wound healing in different tissues, but their role in intestinal epithelial restitution–the rapid closure of superficial wounds by intestinal epithelial cells (IEC)–remains unclear. Methods In this study, the regulation of IEC migration by potassium channel modulation was explored with and without additional epidermal growth factor (EGF) under baseline and interferon-γ (IFN-γ)-pretreated conditions in scratch assays and Boyden chamber assays using the intestinal epithelial cell lines IEC-18 and HT-29. To identify possibly involved subcellular pathways, Western Blot (WB)-analysis of ERK and Akt phosphorylation was conducted and PI3K and ERK inhibitors were used in scratch assays. Furthermore, mRNA-levels of the potassium channel KCNN4 were determined in IEC from patients suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Results Inhibition of Ca2+-dependent potassium channels significantly increased intestinal epithelial restitution, which could not be further promoted by additional EGF. In contrast, inhibition of KCNN4 after pretreatment with IFN-γ led to decreased or unaffected migration. This effect was abolished by EGF. Changes in Akt, but not in ERK phosphorylation strongly correlated with these findings and PI3K but not ERK inhibition abrogated the effect of KCNN4 inhibition. Levels of KCNN4 mRNA were higher in samples from IBD patients compared with controls. Conclusions Taken together, we demonstrate that inhibition of KCNN4 differentially regulates IEC migration in IFN-γ-pretreated vs. non pretreated conditions. Moreover, our data propose that the PI3K signaling cascade is responsible for this differential regulation. Therefore, we present a cellular model that contributes new aspects to epithelial barrier dysfunction in chronic intestinal inflammation, resulting in propagation of inflammation and symptoms like ulcers or diarrhea.
Dominant‐negative mutants of importin‐β block multiple pathways of import and export through the nuclear pore complex

Nuclear protein import proceeds through the nuclear pore complex (NPC). Importin‐β mediates translocation via direct interaction with NPC components and carries importin‐α with the NLS substrate from the cytoplasm into the nucleus. The import reaction is terminated by the direct binding of nuclear RanGTP to importin‐β which dissociates the importin heterodimer. Here, we analyse the sites of interaction on importin‐β for its multiple partners. Ran and importin‐α respectively require residues 1–364 and 331–876 of importin‐β for binding. Thus, RanGTP‐mediated release of importin‐α from importin‐β is likely to be an active displacement rather than due to simple competition between Ran and importin‐α for a common binding site. Importin‐β has at least two non‐overlapping sites of interaction with the NPC, which could potentially be used sequentially during translocation. Our data also suggest that termination of import involves a transient release of importin‐β from the NPC. Importin‐β fragments which bind to the NPC, but not to Ran, resist this release mechanism. As would be predicted from this, these importin‐β mutants are very efficient inhibitors of NLS‐dependent protein import. Surprisingly, however, they also inhibit M9 signal‐mediated nuclear import as well as nuclear export of mRNA, U snRNA, and the NES‐containing Rev protein. This suggests that mediators of these various transport events share binding sites on the NPC and/or that mechanisms exist to coordinate translocation through the NPC via different nucleocytoplasmic transport pathways.
Geriatric Evaluation and Management: Current Status and Future Research Directions

In the last decade the concept of geriatric evaluation and management (GEM) has been widely discussed in the literature. Studies of GEM have occurred primarily in three settings: inpatient units, outpatient clinics, and specialized types of home care. We have reviewed the literature, focusing on randomized trials, to determine the strength of the evidence for the efficacy of these interventions. Two single‐site randomized controlled trials of inpatient GEM units have been conducted and indicate that such units that provide care to targeted disabled older patients probably have a favorable impact on subsequent physical function, rates of institutionalization, and mortality. Two randomized trials of inpatient GEM consultation teams have been conducted. The trial that did not target high‐risk individuals showed no benefit while the trial that did target an at‐risk group showed that those receiving the service had improvements in mental status and short‐term mortality. The results of randomized trials of outpatient GEM clinics to date have been unimpressive. Two trials of in‐home GEM by a trained observer tended to show that the service resulted in a reduction in mortality
DynamicPower at SemEval-2016 Task 8: Processing syntactic parse trees with a Dynamic Semantics core

This is a system description paper for a sub-mission to Task 8 of SemEval-2016: Meaning Representation Parsing. No use was made of the training data provided by the task. Instead existing components were combined to form a pipeline able to take raw sentences as input and output meaning representations. Components are a part-of-speech tagger and parser trained on the Penn Parsed Corpus of Modern British English to produce syntactic parse trees, a semantic role labeller and a named entity recogniser to supplement obtained parse trees with word sense, functional and named entity information, followed by an adapted Tarskian satisfaction relation for a Dynamic Semantics that is used to transform a syntactic parse into a predicate logic based meaning representation, followed by conversion to pen-man/AMR notation required for the task appraisal.
Fraction Free Gaussian Elimination for Sparse Matrices

A variant of the fraction free form of Gaussian elimination is presented. This algorithm reduces the amount of arithmetic involved when the matrix has many zero entries. The advantage can be great for matrices with symbolic entries (integers, polynomials, expressions in trigonometric functions, etc.). These claims are supported with some analysis and experimental data.
The Social Construction of Race/Ethnic Disparities in Diabetes A Case of Misplaced Concreteness?

• Used two complementary datasets: (a) a communitybased epidemiologic survey; and (b) a factorial experiment concerning decision making for diabetes signs/symptoms. • Analysis of NHANES data to corroborate findings from (a) and (b). • Logistic regression and analysis of variance. • SES defined by a combination of years of education and household income and categorized such that (1⁄4, 1⁄2, 1⁄4) of population is (lower, middle, upper) SES. • Undiagnosed symptoms of diabetes included: – Thirst – Weight Loss – Fatigue – Feeling Unwell – Frequent Urination – Overweight There are no significant race/ethnic differences in undiagnosed diabetes signs/symptoms. But there are significant differences by SES (p<.0001).