Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Data center optical networks (DCON) with OpenFlow based Software Defined Networking (SDN)

As the infrastructure of cloud computing and big data, data centers have been deployed widely. Then, how to make full use of the computing and storage resources in data centers will be the focus. Data center networks are considered important solution for the problem above, which include intra-data center and inter-data center networks. Both of them will depend on the optical networking due to its advantages, such as high bandwidth, low latency, and low energy consumption. Data center interconnected by flexi-grid optical networks is a promising scenario to allocate spectral resources for applications in a dynamic, tunable and efficient control manner. Compared with inter-data center, optical interconnect in intra-data center networks is a more pressing need and promising scenario to accommodate these applications in a dynamic, flexible and efficient manner. OpenFlow based Software Defined Networking (SDN) is considered as a good technology, which is very suitable for data center networks. This paper mainly focuses on the data center optical networks based on software defined networking (SDN), which can control the heterogeneous networks with unified resource interface. Architecture and experimental demonstration of OpenFlow-based optical interconnects in intra-data center Networks and OpenFlow-based flexi-grid optical networks for inter-data center are presented in the paper respectively. Some future works are listed finally.
Intelligent Wearable Assistance System for Human Environment Interaction

Due to the rapid progress of computer technology, we are being shifted to ubiquitous computing paradigm. In ubiquitous computing environment, we will frequently interact with various devices at the same time. So, the system that alleviates a burden of excessive interactions is required. In this paper we describe a framework for the development of the wearable computer system that can understand the context of human life and help a person interact with many ubiquitous computing devices. As one of the methods to understand user’s context, we present a subsystem that automatically identify which device the user is looking at. The developed wearable computer system senses ubiquitous computing devices with which a user wants to interact and also communicates with them. Utilizing these capabilities, it intermediates between a person and ubiquitous computing devices. But there needs further refinement and correction with regard to context awareness and agent in further research.
Research of TDOA Based Self-localization Approach in Wireless Sensor Network

Sensor network, which has integrated wireless communication, date collection and information processing capacities, is a booming technique in information collecting. With the development of research on wireless sensor networks (WSNs), localization in the WSNs has become a very important research point. At present, there are mainly two kinds of approaches, range-based approach and range-free approach. Localization precision of range-based approach is higher than the range-free approach. In the range-based approach, time difference of arrival (TDOA) method needs less requirements for time synchronization. This paper proposes a self-localization approach based on TDOA, which utilizes average value of time difference by rolling average to decrease the measurement error, and adopts unconstrained least squares (LS) estimator to achieve the accurate localization. Simulation results and error analysis prove its validity
Does distance matter? An ego-network approach towards the knowledge-based theory of clusters

The purpose of this article is to empirically analyze how different forms of proximity influence interactive learning and ease of knowledge transfer among entrepreneurs, in order to advance the knowledge-based theory of clusters. Making use of ego-network data, gathered among entrepreneurs from the Amsterdam IT and new media-cluster and analyzed using structural equation modeling, the data lead us to reconsidering the role of geographical proximity as main catalyst of interactive learning and knowledge flow among entrepreneurs. A strong case is put forward for acknowledging other forms of proximity, namely relational, cognitive, and in particular epistemic proximity, as main facilitators of interactive learning and ease of knowledge transfer.
Does corruption suppress voter turnout?*

ABSTRACT This paper investigates to what extent voters’ perceptions of political corruption affect turnout. In previous research, two opposing views are put forward with regards to the relationship between corruption and turnout. On the one hand, corruption increases turnout because voters either are bought off to participate or because they are mobilized on clean government issues. On the other hand, corruption decreases turnout because presence of corruption corrodes the political system which leads to general cynicism, distrust and voter apathy. In this paper, we contribute to the existing research by adopting a multi-level approach to the relationship between corruption and turnout. We test the hypothesis that voters’ perceptions of corruption dampens turnout but that the effect is conditional upon the corruption context. We test our hypothesis by combining individual-level data and country-level data from 26 countries from the Comparative Study of Electoral Systems and country-level data from the Quality of Government Data Set. The findings show that perceiving corruption negatively affects turnout, but only in countries with low to medium levels of system corruption.
Optimal Embeddings and Eigenvalues in Support Theory

Support theory is a methodology for bounding eigenvalues and generalized eigenvalues of matrices and matrix pencils; such bounds have been stated both in algebraic terms and in combinatorial terms based on embeddings of the underlying graphs of the matrices. In this paper, we present a theorem that demonstrates the connection between these various bounding techniques and also suggest a possible approach to generating approximate inverses for preconditioning. The theorem shows, given matrices $A = U D_A U^*$ and $B = V D_B V^*$ (where $D_A$ and $D_B$ are invertible Hermitian matrices, and $U$ and $V$ are not necessarily square), that it is possible to define a matrix $W$ such that $W^* D_B^{-1} W D_A$ has the same nonzero eigenvalues counting multiplicity as $B^+ A$. In the special case that $U$ is the orthogonal projector onto the range space of $B$ and $D_A = I$ (and hence that $A = U U^* = U^2 = U$), then $W^* D_B^{-1} W = B^+$. This suggests that finding an approximation to $W$ might lead to an approximate inverse that can be used in preconditioning. We also describe how this theorem generalizes the idea of graph embeddings in an algebraic sense.
Early Childhood Inclusion in the United States: Goals, Current Status, and Future Directions

The current status and future directions of early childhood inclusion in the United States are discussed from the perspective of 4 key goals: access, accommodations and feasibility, developmental progress, and social integration. Recommendations are put forward to promote inclusion goals emphasizing administrative structures, personnel preparation, licensing and national standards, team processes, and expansion of inclusive practices beyond school settings. These recommendations are discussed within the context of an early childhood systems framework that encompasses all children.
Soft robotic glove with integrated sEMG sensing for disabled people with hand paralysis

Stroke affects about 15 million people worldwide annually, and 80% of stroke survivors are left with hand paralysis. A wearable soft robotic glove that aims to restore basic hand function was designed to improve quality of life for people with hand paralysis. This soft robotic glove utilizes a cable system and an under-actuated mechanism to assist patients to grasp objects or open hand. The glove part of this device only weights 50g, and can generate a maximum 35N grasp force, which is capable of handling most daily life activities. Objects with various shapes can be grasped without active control due to the usage of under-actuated mechanism. Myoelectric signals are used as control source of the glove through integrated surface electromyography electrodes (sEMG). Besides, a proportional control method is adopted to improve the performance of our device. We also combine sEMG control and Mirror Therapy together in order to generate an effective method for rehabilitation training.
Improving Web API Discovery by Leveraging Social Information

A common problem that mashup developers face is the discovery of APIs that suit their needs. This primary task becomes harder, tedious and time-consuming with the proliferation of new APIs. As humans, we learn by example, following community previous decisions when creating mashups. Most techniques do not consider at all reusing this social information. In this paper, we propose to combine current discovery techniques (exploration) with social information (exploitation). Our preliminary results show that by considering the reciprocal influence of both sources, the discovery process reveals APIs that would remain with low rank because the preferential attachment (popularity) and/or the lack of better descriptions (discovery techniques). We present a case study focusing on a public Web-based API registry.
A Limited Sampling, Simple, and Useful Method for Determination of Glomerular Filtration Rate in Cats by Using a New Accurate HPLC Method to Measure Iohexol Plasmatic Concentrations

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is still a highly underutilized tool in cats because available methods are not easy to be performed in clinical practice. Iohexol (IOX) has been shown to be a useful and reliable marker of GFR both in animals and in humans. The aim of the present study was to develop a rapid and reliable method for measuring IOX in feline plasma and to evaluate the accuracy of limited sampling models to establish a low-cost and clinically suitable GFR test. IOX concentrations were determined by using a new HPLC-UV method. GFR was assessed as plasma clearance of IOX, which was calculated by dividing dose administered by area under the curve of plasmatic concentration versus time (AUC), and indexed to body weight (BW). Correlation and agreement analysis between the GFR values obtained by a seven-point clearance method and the GFR values determined by the application of simplified sample combinations indicated that the 3-blood sample clearance model (5, 30, and 60 min) was the best simplified method because it provided an accurate GFR value in only one hour. The reported method is a simple and accurate way of GFR determination, which may be easily used in a clinical setting.
Lysis of Endogenously Infected CD4+ T Cell Blasts by rIL-2 Activated Autologous Natural Killer Cells from HIV-Infected Viremic Individuals

Understanding the cellular mechanisms that ensure an appropriate innate immune response against viral pathogens is an important challenge of biomedical research. In vitro studies have shown that natural killer (NK) cells purified from healthy donors can kill heterologous cell lines or autologous CD4+ T cell blasts exogenously infected with several strains of HIV-1. However, it is not known whether the deleterious effects of high HIV-1 viremia interferes with the NK cell-mediated cytolysis of autologous, endogenously HIV-1-infected CD4+ T cells. Here, we stimulate primary CD4+ T cells, purified ex vivo from HIV-1-infected viremic patients, with PHA and rIL2 (with or without rIL-7). This experimental procedure allows for the significant expansion and isolation of endogenously infected CD4+ T cell blasts detected by intracellular staining of p24 HIV-1 core antigen. We show that, subsequent to the selective down-modulation of MHC class-I (MHC-I) molecules, HIV-1-infected p24pos blasts become partially susceptible to lysis by rIL-2-activated NK cells, while uninfected p24neg blasts are spared from killing. This NK cell-mediated killing occurs mainly through the NKG2D activation pathway. However, the degree of NK cell cytolytic activity against autologous, endogenously HIV-1-infected CD4+ T cell blasts that down-modulate HLA-A and –B alleles and against heterologous MHC-Ineg cell lines is particularly low. This phenomenon is associated with the defective surface expression and engagement of natural cytotoxicity receptors (NCRs) and with the high frequency of the anergic CD56neg/CD16pos subsets of highly dysfunctional NK cells from HIV-1-infected viremic patients. Collectively, our data demonstrate that the chronic viral replication of HIV-1 in infected individuals results in several phenotypic and functional aberrancies that interfere with the NK cell-mediated killing of autologous p24pos blasts derived from primary T cells.
Aggregation Techniques on Software Metrics: A Study

Metrics are usually defined on a micro level like methods, classes and packages. These are failed to provide an adequate picture of the entire system effectively. By combine different metrics with varying output values and ranges to get insight in the evolution of the macro level system. We listed various metrics like Product, Project & Process and also various aggregation techniques in Traditional methods such as mean, median, sum, and cardinality; in Distribution fittings such as Log-Normal, Exponential, Negative binomial; and in Inequality Indices such as Theil, Gini, Kolm and Atkinson. The theoretical criteria in Domain, Range, and Invariance & Decomposability of various metrics are discussed. The Aggregation Techniques from simple mathematical operations to more complex operations to get Macro level system would be helpful as the outliers get pulled into the larger amounts of data. The Developers or Managers have an understanding of the parts of system are still needed to make sure that the metrics not misused or misunderstood. Metris are powerful tools that need to be used with care. We wish to understand, the aggregation techniques influence the strength of the relations among metrics to asses software quality.
The role of foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong Chinese children's English and Chinese skills: A longitudinal study

We investigated the influence of nonparental caregivers, such as foreign domestic helpers (FDH), on the home language spoken to the child and its implications for vocabulary and word reading development in Cantonese- and English-speaking bilingual children. Using data collected from ages 5 to 9, we analyzed Chinese vocabulary, Chinese character recognition, English vocabulary, and English word reading among 194 native Cantonese-speaking children in Hong Kong with English-speaking FDHs (n = 46), children with Cantonese-speaking FDHs (n = 32), and children with no FDHs who were spoken to in Cantonese (n = 116). Multilevel modeling results showed potential advantages in initial English vocabulary and disadvantages in initial Chinese character recognition among children in the English-speaking FDH group, with no evidence for compounding or diminished costs or benefits over time. Results are discussed in relation to both theoretical and practical aspects of home language and literacy development.
A new sentence similarity assessment measure based on a three-layer sentence representation

Sentence similarity is used to measure the degree of likelihood between sentences. It is used in many natural language applications, such as text summarization, information retrieval, text categorization, and machine translation. The current methods for assessing sentence similarity represent sentences as vectors of bag of words or the syntactic information of the words in the sentence. The degree of likelihood between phrases is calculated by composing the similarity between the words in the sentences. Two important concerns in the area, the meaning problem and the word order, are not handled, however. This paper proposes a new sentence similarity assessment measure that largely improves and refines a recently published method that takes into account the lexical, syntactic and semantic components of sentences. The new method proposed here was benchmarked using a publically available standard dataset. The results obtained show that the new similarity assessment measure proposed outperforms the state of the art systems and achieve results comparable to the evaluation made by humans.
How to characterize a research line for user-system interaction

One of the major challenges in the emerging interdisciplinary field of human-computer interaction (HCI) and user-system interaction (USI) is the specification of a research line that can enable the development of validated design relevant knowledge with a predictive power for the design of interactive systems. Based on the three different elements in the design of interactive systems: (1) human being(s), (2) technical artifact(s), and (3) context of use, different disciplines contribute with different research paradigms to this new field: social sciences with a strong empirical and experimental approach, and engineering disciplines with a strong technical and formal approach. This paper presents and discusses a possible way to integrate the strengths of different research and design paradigms.
A continuous object tracking protocol suitable for practical wireless sensor networks

The information of boundary area is important to track the continuous objects such as forest fires, radioactive matter, and oil spills. Recently, many of protocols are proposed for the continuous object tracking. They predict the future boundary shape of the continuous objects and activate only sensors in the predicted area of the objects. It is very efficient strategy in a uniformly deployed wireless sensor networks. However, it should be needed more advanced algorithm that is suitable for a randomly deployed practical sensor networks with voids. If the void area is in the predicted area, the activation message cannot reach and the predicted area cannot be activated at the right time. It is a major cause of many detection errors for the continuous object. Moreover, if activation control is once foiled then the next activation control might be continuously failed. The detection errors can be result in serious harm to people, because most of continuous objects are dangerous substances. In this paper, we propose a chaining selective wakeup scheme suitable for continuous object tracking in wireless sensor networks. In our protocol, we collect the information of a void area during the network configuration time; if the next boundary area is in the void area, we activate the chained area surrounding the void area with activation control message.
Inhibition of PKC β Protects Against Diabetes-Induced Impairment in Arachidonic Acid Dilation of Small Coronary Arteries

To test the hypothesis that PKCβ-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) underlie the vascular dysfunction in diabetes, we examined the effects of LY333531 (LY), a specific PKCβ inhibitor, on arachidonic acid (AA)-mediated dilation in small coronary arteries from streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. This study was designed to determine whether diabetes impairs AA-induced vasodilation of small coronary arteries and whether this defect could be blunted by dietary treatment with LY. Coronary diameter was measured using video-microscopy in isolated pressurized vessels. In controls, AA dose dependently dilated coronary arteries, with 1 μM producing 54.7±3.1% and 30 μM 72.0±3.0% dilation (n=9). In diabetic rats, 1 μM AA only produced 31.4±3.8% (n=8, p<0.01 vs. control) and 30 μM 43.8±3.7% dilation (n=8, p<0.001 vs. control). Nitroprusside-mediated vasodilations were similar in control and diabetic rats. In contrast, in diabetic rats receiving LY, AA-mediated coronary dilations were normal. In controls, AA-mediated vasodilation was inhibited by miconazole (an inhibitor of cytochrome P450 epoxygenase) and by iberiotoxin (IBTX, an inhibitor of the large conductance Ca-activated K channel) but miconazole and IBTX had no effects in diabetic vessels. In diabetic rats receiving LY, the effects of miconazole and IBTX were similar to control. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) restored responses to AA in diabetic vessels but had no effect in vessels from control or diabetic rats on LY. These results suggest that AA-mediated vasodilation in rat coronary arteries are impaired in diabetic rats due to increases in generation of ROS. LY protects against these defects in diabetes through inhibition of PKCβ-mediated production of ROS.
A novel phosphate-regulated expression vector in Escherichia toli (Prokaryotic expression vector; recombinant DNA; ugp promoter; pho regulon; phosphate regulation)

SUMMARY The ugp promoter (P~w,) responsible for expression of the binding-protein-dependent sn-giycerol-3-phosphate transport system in Escherichia coil was cloned into a small multicopy plasmid pTER5, a derivative of pBR322, between the transcription terminators rpoCt and tLt. The resulting expression vector, pPH3, permits convenient insertion of structural genes containing their own translational-initiation regions, into the multiple-cloning site derived from the pUCI9 plasmid. The efficiency and regulatory properties ofp,~, were measured using xy/E and lacZ as reporter genes, which code for the corresponding enzymes catechol-2,3-dioxygenase (C230) and p-galactosidase (~Gal), respectively. Enzyme activities were virtually completely repressed in the presence of excess inorganic phosphates (Pi) and high concentrations of glucose. Maximal induction was observed at limiting Pi (<0.1 mM) and normal levels of glucose (0.2-0.4~). The maximum expression of the p,~,-directed/~Gal synthesis was approx. 80~ of that directed by strong Ptoc. When the xylE gene was maximally expressed, the induced enzyme constituted approx. 50~0 of total cellular protein as judged by laser densitometry following sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis. These results suggest the usefulness of the P~e, in expression vectors for strong, but controlled, expression of cloned genes in E. coll. This Pl controlled vector can be adapted to large-scale fermentation by using Pl-limiting growth conditions.
A Unified Probabilistic Model of User Activities and Relations on Social Networking Sites

In this work, we investigate the bidirectional mutual interactions (BMI) between users' activities and user-user relationships on social networking sites. We analyze and study the fundamental mechanism that drives the characteristics and dynamics of BMI is the underlying social influence. We make an attempt at a unified probabilistic approach, called joint activity and relation (JAR), for modeling and predicting users' activities and user-user relationships simultaneously in a single coherent framework. Instead of incorporating social influence in an ad hoc manner, we show that social influence can be captured quantitatively. Based on JAR, we learn social influence between users and users' personal preferences for both user activity prediction and user-user relation discovery through statistical inference. To address the challenges of the introduced multiple layers of hidden variables in JAR, we propose a new learning algorithm based on expectation maximization (EM) and we further propose a powerful and efficient generalization of the EM based algorithm for model fitting. We show that JAR exploits mutual interactions and benefits, by taking advantage of the learned social influence and users' personal preferences, for enhanced user activity prediction and user-user relation discovery. We further experiment with real world dataset to verify the claimed advantages achieving substantial performance gains.