Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Throughput and delay performance of IEEE 802.11e enhanced distributed channel access (EDCA) under saturation condition

In this paper, we analyze the saturation performance of IEEE 802.11e enhanced distributed channel access (EDCA), which provides contention-based differentiated channel access for frames of different priorities in wireless LANs. With EDCA, quality of service (QoS) support is provided with up to four access categories (ACs) in each station. Each AC behaves as an independent backoff entity. The priority among ACs is then determined by AC-specific parameters, called the EDCA parameter set. The behavior of the backoff entity of each AC is modeled as a two-state Markov chain, which is extended from Bianchi's model to capture the features of EDCA. The differences of our model from existing work for 802.11e EDCA include: (i) virtual collisions among different ACs in an EDCA station are modeled, thus more accurately capturing the behavior of EDCA; (ii) the influence of using different arbitrary inter-frame spaces (AIFS) for different ACs on saturation performance are considered; (iii) delay and delay jitter are derived, in addition to saturation throughput. The analytical model is validated via ns-2 simulations. The results show that our analytical model can accurately describe the behavior of IEEE 802.11e EDCA
Understanding the Experiences of Lesbian, Bisexual and Trans Survivors of Domestic Violence

SUMMARY Objectives: Using a participatory approach, our objectives were to understand community perspectives on domestic violence (DV) in lesbian, bisexual and trans (LBT) communities, and to assess access to and cultural appropriateness of DV services for LBT survivors. Methods: We used qualitative methods and conducted focus groups and semi-structured interviews with LBT survivors of DV. Results: Nearly all participants reported that the level of awareness regarding DV in their communities was limited. Survivors reported difficulty identifying their partners' behavior as abusive. Isolation was described as central to experiences of abuse, and respondents discussed a variety of isolation tactics specific to LBT communities. Isolation also contributed to difficulty seeking help. Respondents reported that they often did not access mainstream DV services due to concerns about homophobia and transphobia. To address DV in LBT communities respondents pointed to the importance of friendship and community networks, sharing information about queer DV, and holding batterers accountable for their behavior. Conclusions: LBT people face challenges identifying and responding to DV that are specific to their cultural context. Services for LBT DV survivors must be culturally appropriate and accessible. Community-based solutions for addressing and preventing DV should be encouraged.
Web Data Visualization Based on the Function and Implementaion Dimension

As the evolvement of web, the web site pays more attention on the interactivity of web page, which will bring better user experience. Visualization techniques have the capability to strengthen interactivity by providing graphic and interactive data explore interface. This paper takes the web data visualization as our focus of attention. By creating three dimensions, the Function and Implementation aspect of web data visualization are fully presented. The Function dimension is based on IA2.0 and the Implementation dimension is based on B/S mode. Then prototype web data visualization systems (IVM) are presented to illustrate the usability of our view.
A Survey of Game Theoretic Methods for Cyber Security

Cyber security has been heavily studied in both industry and academia, but the traditional security technology is still facing unprecedented challenges in the background of massive and complicated network traffic. Game theory as a mathematical model of conflict and cooperation between intelligent rational decision-makers has great potential to improve cyber security. This paper describes a focused literature survey of game theoretic methods for cyber security applications. The methods are classified according to their security application scenarios, and we also present their advantages and limitations respectively. Then we discuss the difficulties and challenges confronting researchers, and in addition, we propose some directions for further research on game theory as applied to cyber security from both the mathematics perspective and security perspective.
Genomic c-Myc Quadruplex DNA Selectively Kills Leukemia

c-Myc, a key regulator of cell cycle and proliferation, is commonly overexpressed in leukemia and associated with poor prognosis. Conventional antisense oligonucleotides targeting c-myc may attenuate leukemic cell growth, however, are poorly taken into cells, rapidly degraded, and have unwanted effects on normal cells. The c-myc promoter contains a guanine-rich sequence (PU27) capable of forming quadruplex (four-stranded) DNA, which may negatively regulate c-myc transcription. However, its biological significance is unknown. We show that treatment of leukemia with an oligonucleotide encoding the genomic PU27 sequence induces cell-cycle arrest and death by oncotic necrosis due to PU27-mediated suppression of c-myc mRNA/protein expression. Furthermore, PU27 is abundantly taken into cells, localized in the cytoplasm/nucleus, inherently stable in serum and intracellularly, and has no effect on normal cells. Suppression of c-myc expression by PU27 caused significant DNA damage, cell and mitochondrial swelling, and membrane permeability characteristic of oncotic necrosis. Induction of oncosis caused mitochondrial dysfunction, depletion of cellular ATP levels, and enhanced oxidative stress. This novel antileukemic strategy addresses current concerns of oligonucleotide therapeutics including problems with uptake, stability, and unintentional effects on normal cells and is the first report of selective cancer cell killing by a genomic DNA sequence. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(1); 66–76. ©2011 AACR.
Object-oriented composition untangled

Object-oriented languages come with pre-defined composition mechansims, such as inheritance, object composition, or delegation, each characterized by a certain set of composition properties, which do not themselves individually exist as abstractions at the language level. However, often non-standard composition semantics is needed, with a mixture of composition mechanisms. Such non-standard semantics are simulated by complicated architectures that are sensitive to requirement changes and cannot easily be adapted without invalidating existing clients. In this paper, we propose compound references, a new abstraction for object references, that allows us to provide explicit linguistic means for expressing and combining individual composition properties on-demand. The model is statically typed and allows the programmer to express a seamless spectrum of composition semantics in the interval between object composition and inheritance. The resulting programs are better understandable, due to explicity expressed design decisions, and less sensitive to requirement changes.
Multi-fidelity Simulation modelling in optimization of a hybrid submarine propulsion system

Multi-objective Genetic Algorithms have become a popular choice to aid in optimising the size of the whole hybrid power train. Within these optimisation processes, other optimisation techniques for the control strategy are implemented. This optimisation within an optimisation requires many simulations to be run, so reducing the computational cost is highly desired. This paper presents an optimisation framework consisting of a series hybrid optimisation algorithm, in which a global search optimizes a submarine propulsion system using low-fidelity models and, in order to refine the results, a local search is used with high-fidelity models. The effectiveness of the Hybrid optimisation algorithm is demonstrated with the optimisation of a submarine propulsion system.
Multimodal Biometric Recognition Based on Complex KFDA

A novel multimodal biometric recognition algorithm based on complex kernel Fisher discriminant analysis (complex KFDA) is proposed. Complex KFDA exploits two phases to generalize KFDA and perform classification for the fusion feature set: complex KPCA plus complex LDA. As two distinct biometric modals, the features of iris and face are fused in parallel to test our algorithm. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm achieves much better performance than other conventional multimodal biometric algorithms.
Silenced Voices and Structured Survival

Despite social and governmental responses to battering, many women continue to feel entrapped in abusive relationships. Using standpoint epistemology, this article examines the various aspects of help seeking, and the social and institutional responses to such efforts, through the narratives of 19 women in a domestic violence shelter. The findings are discussed with reference to Ptacek's social entrapment perspective and Gondolf and Fisher's survivor hypothesis, illustrating the socioeconomic and political context of the control tactics utilized by abusers and the structural impediments to battered women's successful help seeking.
DEALING WITH COLOR CHANGES CAUSED BY NATURAL ILLUMINATION IN OUTDOOR MACHINE VISION

This paper addresses the problem of color changes caused by variation in natural illumination, both in intensity and spectral content. Dealing with intensity changes is relatively easy using color ratios, whereas changes in spectral content present more of a problem. Our previous work has shown that natural daylight can be represented in a form whereby it is possible to derive a monochrome image from a 3-band color image that is invariant to illumination spectral changes. Here we illustrate the method with an application from one of our important problem domains, precision treatment of agricultural crops using cybernetic machinery. We collect images of two components, vegetation and soil, and derive statistical models of the pixels that make up the images for three illumination conditions. We show that the models for the same component are quite different when using color ratios but much more similar when using our invariant transformation as the illumination changes. We conclude that cybernetic applications of outdoor machine vision must be able to deal with illumination spectral changes and that our invariant transformation is a suitable method to do this.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Various Imaging Modalities for Suspected Lower Extremity Stress Fractures: Response

Background:The literature is filled with conflicting findings regarding diagnostic accuracy and protocols for imaging suspected lower extremity stress fractures. The absence of systematic reviews on this topic has limited the development of evidence-based recommendations for appropriate imaging protocols in cases of suspected lower extremity stress fractures.Purpose:To determine the diagnostic accuracy statistics of imaging modalities used to diagnose lower extremity stress fractures and to synthesize evidence-based recommendations for clinical practice.Study Design:Systematic review.Methods:A generic search strategy for published studies was performed using multiple databases. A study was eligible for inclusion if it met all of the following criteria: (1) at least 1 diagnostic imaging modality was studied, (2) at least 1 radiological reference standard was used, (3) the study reported or allowed computation of diagnostic accuracy statistics (sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative l.
Analytic Calculus of Response Time in Networked Automation Systems

This paper presents a novel approach to evaluate the response time in networked automation systems (NAS) that use a client/server protocol. The developments introduced are derived from modeling the entire architecture in the form of timed event graphs (TEGs), as well as from the resulting state representation in Max-Plus algebra. The various architectural stages are actually modeled in a very abstract pattern, which yields just those TEG models where local delays are sufficient to perform the overall evaluation. In this manner, linear Max-Plus equations are obtained. A thorough analysis of these equations has led to analytical formulas for direct calculus of NAS response time. As a final step, experimental measurements taken on a laboratory facility have been used to verify the validity of the results. In conclusion, the benefit and effectiveness of this novel method have been demonstrated.
A Min-Max Problem for the Computation of the Cycle Time Lower Bound in Interval-Based Time Petri Nets

The time Petri net with firing frequency intervals (TPNF) is a modeling formalism used to specify system behavior under timing and frequency constraints. Efficient techniques exist to evaluate the performance of TPNF models based on the computation of bounds of performance metrics (e.g., transition throughput, place marking). In this paper, we propose a min-max problem to compute the cycle time of a transition under optimistic assumptions. That is, we are interested in computing the lower bound. We will demonstrate that such a problem is related to a maximization linear programming problem (LP-max) previously stated in the literature, to compute the throughput upper bound of the transition. The main advantage of the min-max problem compared to the LP-max is that, in addition to the optimal value, the optimal solutions provide useful feedback to the analyst on the system behavior (e.g., performance bottlenecks). We have implemented two solution algorithms, using CPLEX APIs, to solve the min-max problem, and have compared their performance using a benchmark of TPNF models, several of these being case studies. Finally, we have applied the min-max technique for the vulnerability analysis of a critical infrastructure, i.e., the Saudi Arabian crude-oil distribution network.
50% Drain Efficiency Doherty Amplifier with Optimized Power Range for W-CDMA Signal

A novel high-efficiency Doherty amplifier is presented. A carrier amplifier and a peak amplifier in the Doherty amplifier are set to asymmetrical drain voltages to extend the power range where a high drain efficiency of the Doherty amplifier is maintained. Matching circuits of the carrier amplifier and the peak amplifier are designed for each drain voltage so that the drain efficiency and signal linearity of the Doherty amplifier at a 9 dB backoff point from its saturated output power (Psat) become higher than those of a conventional Doherty amplifier. These simple steps optimize the power range of the Doherty amplifier for a wideband code-division multiple-access (W-CDMA) signal that has a peak-to-average power ratio (PAR) of 9 dB. A Doherty amplifier containing gallium nitride (GaN) high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) achieves an adjacent channel leakage power ratio (ACLR) of -38 dBc and a drain efficiency of 50% at an output power of 45 dBm. This is the highest drain efficiency of a Doherty amplifier for a W-CDMA signal to the best of the authors' knowledge.
A KALMAN FIELTER APPROACH TO INTEGRATE PRECIPITATION INFORMATION FROM SATELLITE AND GAUGE OBSERVATIONS OVER THE GLOBE

Over the past decade, systematic efforts have been made at the NOAA Climate Prediction Center (CPC) to construct high quality, high-resolution global precipitation analyses through integrating information from multisensor, multi-platform satellite observations. Called CPC Morphing technique (CMORPH, Joyce et al. 2004 [1]), an innovative algorithm was developed that combines estimates of instantaneous precipitation rates derived from passive microwave (PMW) observations of all available LEO satellites through propagating and morphing them via the cloud advection vectors derived from consecutive infrared (IR) images from geostationary platforms. The CMORPH satellite precipitation analysis has been produced on an 8kmx8km resolution over the globe (60S60N) for an 11-year period from November 1998 to the present [2]. Intercomparison and validation studies illustrated excellent performance of the CMORPH estimates in capturing precipitation variations of various time / space scales [3].
Modelling and analysis of a collision avoidance protocol using Spin and Uppaal

This paper compares the tools SPIN and UPPAAL by modelling and verifying a Collision Avoidance Protocol for an Ethernet-like medium. We find that SPIN is well suited for modelling the untimed aspects of the protocol processes and for expressing the relevant (untimed) properties. However, the modelling of the media becomes awkward due to the lack of broadcast communication in the PROMELA language. On the other hand we find it easy to model the timed aspects using the UPPAAL tool. Especially, the notion of committed locations supports the modelling of broadcast communication. However, the property language of UPPAAL lacks some expressivity for verification of bounded liveness properties, and we indicate how timed testing automata may be constructed for such properties, inspired by the (untimed) checking automata of SPIN.
Functional dissection of a transcriptionally active, target‐specific Hox–Pbx complex

Hox genes control cell fates and specify regional identities in vertebrate development. Hox proteins show a relaxed DNA‐binding selectivity in vitro, suggesting that functional specificity is achieved in vivo through the action of transcriptional co‐factors. Pbx proteins are good candidates for such a role, on the basis of both genetic and biochemical evidence. We report that the human Pbx1 and HOXB1 proteins can cooperatively activate transcription through a genetically characterized Hox target, i.e. an autoregulatory element directing spatially restricted expression of the murine Hoxb‐1 gene (b1‐ARE) in the developing hindbrain. On the b1‐ARE, only a restricted subset of HOX proteins (HOXA1, HOXB1, HOXA2) are able to bind cooperatively with Pbx1 and activate transcription. Selective recognition of the b1‐ARE is mediated by the N‐terminal region of the HOX homeodomain. The DNA‐binding and protein–protein interaction functions of HOXB1 and Pbx1 are all necessary for the assembly of a transcriptionally active complex on the b1‐ARE. Functional dissection of the complex allowed the localization of the main activation domain in the HOXB1 N‐terminal region, and of an additional one in the C‐terminal region of Pbx1 contained in the Pbx1a but not in the alternatively spliced Pbx1b isoform. Our results indicate that Pbx1 acts as a transcriptional co‐factor of Hox proteins, allowing selective recognition and cooperative activation of regulatory target sequences.
Research Publication Trends among Physicists of the Indian Institute of Science and the University of Kerala: A Bibliometric Study

The bibliometric study analysed the research productivity of physicists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and the University of Kerala (KU) during 2004-2008. The paper gives a summary and review of the various research evaluation studies of institutions and disciplines. There were 352 research articles listed in the Physics doctoral theses of both the institutions, including 267 from the IISc and 85 from the KU. The authorship trend is towards multi-authored papers in IISc and solo research is predominant in the KU The degree of collaboration of publication was calculated to be 0.94 in IISc researchers and 0.40 in the case of the KU. Journals are the most preferred channel of publication of IISc researchers while KU researchers prefer to publish their research findings mostly in national seminars. The study shows that the Phys. Rev. B tops the list of IISc physicists' choice of journals for publication with 16 publications (9.58%). The KU researchers prefer to publish their research results mostly in Indian journal of Radio and Space Physics with 10 articles 25.64%. Elsevier Science publisher is the most common publisher preferred by the Physicists of both institutions.
A model for the description and prediction of the response of laying hens to amino acid intake.

Synopsis A model which describes the response of groups of laying hens to different levels of amino acid intake is presented. The model is based on the assumption of simple linear relationships between amino acid intake and the output characteristics, egg production and maintenance, for individual birds. The response for a group of birds is then derived as the average of the individual responses. The shape of this flock—response curve depends on seven parameters, namely the mean maximum egg output (Ē max), variation in E max, mean body weight (W), variation in W, the correlation between egg output and body weight, and two constants (a and b) representing respectively the quantities of amino acid required for unit egg output and for maintenance of unit body weight. Three methods of manipulating the model are described. These use (i) a computer simulation procedure; (ii) the exact solution for the model and (iii) some reasonable approximations for practical application. The use of the model for describing e.
The Span Cache: Software Controlled Tag Checks and Cache Line Size

The span cache is a hardware-software design for a new kind of energy-efficient microprocessor data cache which has two key features. The first is direct addressing which allows software to access cache data without the hardware performing a cache tag check. These tag-unchecked loads and stores save the energy of performing a tag check when the compiler can guarantee an access will be to the same line as an earlier access. The second key feature is software controlled line size. This lets the compiler specify how much data to fetch on a miss, allowing greater cache utilization and reducing memory bandwidth requirements. Two possible hardware implementations of software controlled line size are sketched and discussed.
Effects of intrathecal anesthesia with different concentrations and doses on spinal cord, nerve roots and cerebrospinal fluid in dogs.

OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of intrathecal anesthesia with bupivacaine, levobupivacaine and ropivacaine hydrochloride at different doses on the spinal cord, nerve roots and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in dogs. METHODS Forty-two mongrel dogs were randomly divided into normal saline group (C; 2 ml), 0.5% (B1) and 0.75% (B2) bupivacaine hydrochloride groups (2 ml), 0.5% (L1) and 0.75% (L2) levobupivacaine hydrochloride group (2 ml), 0.5% (R1) and 0.75% (R2) ropivacaine hydrochloride group (2 ml), and drugs were intrathecally injected. RESULTS The contents of Ca(2+) and MDA and SOD activity of the spinal cord were comparable among groups (P > 0.05). In Groups B1, L1 and R1, the neuronal cytoplasm of spinal tissues was basically normal, the majority of mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum had complete structure, and the lamellar structure of modulated fibers was nearly normal. In Groups B2, L2 and R2, a small amount of mitochondrial vacuolar degeneration was found in the neuronal cytoplasm of spinal cord, but their structures were basically normal; the neural tissues exhibited focal mild edema, and most of the lamellar structure of modulated fibers and Schwann cells were nearly normal except for loose structure in several fibers and cells. CONCLUSION When compared with 0.75% anesthetics for local anesthesia, the early adverse effects on the ultrastructure of the spinal cord and nerve root reduce after focal anesthesia with 0.5% anesthetics.