Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Social Context of Women's Sustained Participation in Activism

of a dissertation at the University of Miami. Dissertation supervised by Professor Scotney Evans. No. of pages in text. (154) Recently, the resurgence of interest in feminist activism has been discussed by media and news outlets. It is still relatively unknown what contextual factors affect sustained participation, as well as how women from different backgrounds sustain activism in the face of compounding oppressions. This grounded theory explores the contexts of sustained participation through two research questions: (1) what are the contextual factors that influence women’s sustained participation in activism? , and (2) how is the dynamic between identity and context reflected in sustained participation in activism? Nine women activists in Miami-Dade County were interviewed about their experiences in feminist movements, specifically what has helped to facilitate or hinder their sustained participation. This grounded theory shows that the dynamic between managing multidimensional relationships and defining identity is influential to women’s sustained activism at different levels of analysis. Some of the specific contexts including relationships, supportive workplace structures, the reproduction of oppression in movement spaces, and operating within the non-profit industrial complex all within Miami-Dade County, which brings its own unique set of challenges. Implications for future research and action for activists and community practitioners are discussed.
Cone-beam computed tomography reconstruction accelerated with CUDA

For years, Cone-beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) represents a state-of-art CT technique and catch many researchers and doctors' attention for its great efficiency. However, the 3D reconstruction requires billions of calculation blocking CBCT to have real-time reconstruction. With the help of novel Graphic Process Unit (GPU) parallel computing structure, Compute Unified Device Architecture, known as CUDA, this paper proposes a practical CBCT reconstruction method derived from original FDK method, which changes the whole reconstruction process from serial computation into parallel one. This method accelerates the whole reconstruction process by 150 times faster than CPU method, making it possible for real-time volume reconstruction. To deal with highly noise contaminated projection data, this paper also discusses a modified filter to gain better reconstructed image without adding extra computation.
Channel estimation of MC-CDMA system based on SCBC for high data rate communications

The increasing demand for High Data rates in mobile deployment constitutes one of the main research area in this few years. Mobile communication structures must be capable to support and provide high variety of service. Further, many users with different application-and-location-specific, time-varying rate and quality of service (QoS) requirement should be accommodated. In this appreciation, mobile and LTE (Long Term Evolution) are both considered as the main technologies that can be hosted, deployed and capable to offer strong coverage. Among the current techniques, MC-CDMA can provide better performances for high mobility effect with the resistant to various impairments. In this paper we propose a MC-CDMA transmission system for high data rate communications on mobile environments. The results presented are based on mobility context.
Improving web site usability through a clustering approach

One of the main parameters of web usability is related to the smooth navigation of the user and easy access to the information sought. In this paper, we propose a process for improvement of web site structure design by interpreting discovered patterns of web usage logs, with the objective to improve the usability parameters of a given web site. We discuss a cluster-mining algorithm for grouping together related web pages of the site. The clusters found in the process are to be used for redesign of the site and improve connectivity of related pages and thus to facilitate navigation.
An Appropriate Weighting Function for the Nonlocal Means Denosing Method

An improvement to the efficiency of the nonlocal means (NLM) denoising method is proposed in this paper. The NLM denoising method replaces each pixel by the weighted average of pixels with the surrounding neighborhoods. We employ a cosine weighting function instead of the original exponential function used in the weight calculation. Experiments comparing the proposed function against the original function to demonstrate its superior denoising performance in terms of peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR) and histogram, using various test images corrupted by additive white gaussian noise (AWGN).
A Decision Support Framework for Automated Screening of Diabetic Retinopathy

The early signs of diabetic retinopathy (DR) are depicted by microaneurysms among other signs. A prompt diagnosis when the disease is at the early stage can help prevent irreversible damages to the diabetic eye. In this paper, we propose a decision support system (DSS) for automated screening of early signs of diabetic retinopathy. Classification schemes for deducing the presence or absence of DR are developed and tested. The detection rule is based on binary-hypothesis testing problem which simplifies the problem to yes/no decisions. An analysis of the performance of the Bayes optimality criteria applied to DR is also presented. The proposed DSS is evaluated on the real-world data. The results suggest that by biasing the classifier towards DR detection, it is possible to make the classifier achieve good sensitivity.
What Might Have Been: Near Miss Experiences and Adjustment to a Terrorist Attack

Near miss experiences—narrowly avoiding a traumatic event—are associated with distress, despite signaling good fortune. For some, near miss experiences call to mind those who, unlike oneself, were directly affected by the event, leading to “survivor guilt” or distress over one’s comparative good fortune. Survivor guilt, in turn, may function as upward counterfactual thinking about others’ negative outcomes, leading to intrusive thoughts and post-traumatic stress. We compared individuals who did or did not report a near miss with respect to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks—that is, almost being directly affected—in a national longitudinal study (N = 1,433). Near miss experiences predicted higher levels of reexperiencing symptoms and probable post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as maintenance of reexperiencing symptoms over the next 3 years. These associations were partially accounted for by survivor guilt. Near misses may be associated with distress in part because they entail reflection on negative outcomes for others.
Improving Personalized Trip Recommendation by Avoiding Crowds

There has been a growing interest in recommending trips for tourists using location-based social networks. The challenge of trip recommendation not only lies in searching for relevant points-of-interest (POIs) to form a personalized trip, but also selecting the best time of day to visit the POIs. Popular POIs can be too crowded during peak times, resulting in long queues and delays. In this work, we propose the Personalized Crowd-aware Trip Recommendation (PersCT) algorithm to recommend personalized trips that also avoid the most crowded times of the POIs. We model the problem as an extension of the Orienteering Problem with multiple constraints. We extract user interests by collaborative filtering and we propose an extension of the Ant Colony Optimisation algorithm to merge user interests with POI popularity and crowdedness data to recommend trips. We evaluate our algorithm using foot traffic information obtained from a real-life pedestrian sensor dataset and user travel histories extracted from a Flickr photo dataset. We show that our algorithm out-performs several benchmarks in achieving a balance between conflicting objectives by satisfying user interests while reducing the crowdedness of the trips.
Detecting vanishing points by segment clustering on the projective plane for single-view photogrammetry

In this paper, we describe how an effective vanishing point detector can be applied to photogrammetry when only a single view of an architectural environment is available. Our method performs automatic segment clustering in projective space — a direct transformation from the image space — instead of the traditional bounded accumulator space. Experiments on real images show the effectiveness of the proposed detector in finding all vanishing points, as well as its application in a photogrammetry algorithm, by recovering the vertical direction of the scene and the vanishing line for the ground plane.
Identification of Human Skin Regions Using Color and Texture

A novel approach identifying and segmenting skin regions within images is presented in this paper. The identification and recognition of facial regions are a central focus of this work. A set of standard images containing facial/skin objects is first manually segmented into the interested regions. These regions are utilized in the training the system. Dominant color features (i.e., the most frequently occurring quantized colors) along with texture features generated from the co-occurrence matrix are extracted from the training regions. An example image is then presented to the system. The image undergoes a standard image segmentation algorithm that splits the image into consistent objects. The same color/texture features are extracted from the example regions. A similarity measurement is computed and the regions of the example image are subsequently classified as skin/non skin regions. Results are shown for several standard mpeg such as Foreman, Salesman, Miss America, and others.
Sided and Symmetrized Bregman Centroids

In this paper, we generalize the notions of centroids (and barycenters) to the broad class of information-theoretic distortion measures called Bregman divergences. Bregman divergences form a rich and versatile family of distances that unifies quadratic Euclidean distances with various well-known statistical entropic measures. Since besides the squared Euclidean distance, Bregman divergences are asymmetric, we consider the left-sided and right-sided centroids and the symmetrized centroids as minimizers of average Bregman distortions. We prove that all three centroids are unique and give closed-form solutions for the sided centroids that are generalized means. Furthermore, we design a provably fast and efficient arbitrary close approximation algorithm for the symmetrized centroid based on its exact geometric characterization. The geometric approximation algorithm requires only to walk on a geodesic linking the two left/right-sided centroids. We report on our implementation for computing entropic centers of image histogram clusters and entropic centers of multivariate normal distributions that are useful operations for processing multimedia information and retrieval. These experiments illustrate that our generic methods compare favorably with former limited ad hoc methods.
Patterns of Personal Learning Environments

The use of design patterns is now well established as an approach within the field of software systems as well as within the field of architecture. An initial effort was made to harness patterns as a tool for elaborating the design of the elements of personal learning environments as part of the University of Bolton's Personal Learning Environment project; however, this earlier effort had a number of limitations that prompted a revisit to the pattern language documented here. In particular, the initial patterns, while functionally useful, lacked some of the moral and generative qualities that are the essential qualities of an effective pattern language. This paper presents a revised pattern language focused around two primary categories, learning networks, and personal learning tools.
A neuronal network model with STDP for tinnitus management by sound therapy

Tinnitus is the perception of phantom sound in the ears or in the head. There are many therapeutic approaches for tinnitus and sound therapy is one of the techniques for its treatment. In order to investigate mechanisms of tinnitus generation and the clinical effects of sound therapy from the viewpoint of neural engineering, we have proposed computational models with plasticity by Hebbian hypothesis using a neural oscillator or coupled model neurons described by simplified Hodgkin-Huxley equations. In the present paper, a neuronal network model with synaptic plasticity by STDP (spike-timing-dependent plasticity) hypothesis is proposed for replication of the clinical results that human auditory system temporarily halts perception of tinnitus following sound therapy.
Systematic Review of Chinese Herbal Medicines for Preventing in-Stent Coronary Restenosis after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with stent placement is a standard treatment for coronary artery disease (CAD). In-stent restenosis after PCI remains a challenging clinical problem. In China, Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) are widely used for preventing restenosis. This paper systematically reviewed the literature on the effectiveness and safety of CHMs in preventing restenosis after PCI in patients with CAD. Electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials that compared CHMs plus RWM with the same RWM plus placebo in preventing restenosis after PCI. A total of 52 trials (4905 patients) on 34 CHMs met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Ten trials had low risk of bias. Methodological quality of included trials was generally poor. Meta-analysis showed that at the end of at least 3 months' followup, CHMs plus RWM could significantly reduce restenosis rate, cardiac mortality, recurrence rate of angina, acute myocardial infarction, numbers of repeat PCI, and numbers of coronary artery bypass graft. Reported adverse events included gastrointestinal upset, granulocytopenia, and increased alanine transaminase (ALT). CHMs may help prevent restenosis, thus reducing cardiac mortality after PCI. Caution should be exercised in drawing a definitive conclusion due to the poor methodological quality of the trials reviewed.
Adaptive neural network control of robot manipulators in task space

In this paper, the adaptive neural network control of robot manipulators in the task space is considered. The controller is developed based on a neural network modeling technique which neither requires the evaluation of inverse dynamical model nor the time-consuming training process. It is shown that, if Gaussian radial basis function networks are used, uniformly stable adaptation is assured and asymptotically tracking is achieved. The controller thus obtained does not require the inverse of the Jacobian matrix. In addition, robust control can be easily incorporated to suppress the neural network modeling errors and the bounded disturbances. Numerical simulations are provided to show the effectiveness of the approach.
Class I molecules retained in the endoplasmic reticulum bind antigenic peptides

We isolated major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-specific viral peptides from cells infected with influenza virus in the continuous presence of the drug brefeldin A, which blocks exocytosis of newly synthesized MHC class I molecules. MHC-specific peptides were also isolated from cells expressing mouse Kd class I MHC molecules whose cytoplasmic domain was substituted by that of the adenovirus E3/19K glycoprotein. This molecule was retained in an intracellular pre-Golgi complex compartment as demonstrated by immunocytochemical and biochemical means. Since we show that intracellular association of antigenic peptides with such retained class I molecules is necessary for their isolation from cellular extracts, this provides direct evidence that naturally processed peptides associate with class I MHC molecules in an early intracellular exocytic compartment.
The challenges for sociocybernetics

This contribution is a concise overview, within the limited space available, of what is sociocybernetics. It addresses the general sociological reader without special knowledge in the fields of systems, cybernetics and sociocybernetics. It describes the main challenges for the further development of this field, thus providing a background for the articles in this monograph. In many places the term ‘systems’ is used instead of ‘systems and cybernetics’, because cybernetics can be considered the branch of systems science dealing with the dynamic aspects of steering, control and communication.
Influencing Factors on the Knowledge Sharing in Transition China

This study develops an integrated model of commitment to learning, common vision, knowledge sharing and organizational performance. We analyze the model using a structural equation model approach, and 208 manufacturing and service firms in China are selected as the samples of this study. The results conclude that: (1) The commitment to learning is positively relative common vision; (2) Commitment to learning is a function of its knowledge sharing; (3) Common vision is a function of its organizational performance; (4) Knowledge sharing will significantly impact on organizational performance. Finally, implications for researchers and practitioners are presented.
USE OF ALKALINE STABILIZED BIOSOLIDS AS AN AGRICULTURAL LIMING AGENT

achieve a Class A Product. Application of biosolids to agricultural land is the predominant method of disposal. Due to low nitrogen concentrations and high calcium carbonate equivalence (CCE), application rates need to be based on the neutralizing capacities of the materials. This research compared alkaline stabilized biosolid (ASB) with a standard agricultural dolomitic lime to determine the chemical properties of the ASB, reaction rates of the material, how long these reactions would continue, and how plant nutrition may be affected. Three types of experiments were initiated: incubation, greenhouse, and field. Soils selected for studies contained a range in clay and organic matter content. The ASB neutralized soil acidity as well as the agricultural lime at the same CCE application rates. ASB reacted more quickly than agricultural lime in the greenhouse and field studies. This was due to the finer particle size of the ASB. The ASB was able to supply more calcium, but considerably less magnesium, than agricultural lime. The deficiency of magnesium will be of concern when ASB is applied on soils that are naturally deficient in magnesium. A number of utilities are implementing alkaline stabilization systems for biosolids to
Endometrial and subendometrial blood flow measured by three-dimensional power Doppler ultrasound in patients with small intramural uterine fibroids during IVF treatment.

BACKGROUND The impact of intramural fibroids on the success of IVF treatment is controversial and the mechanisms leading to poor treatment outcomes remain unknown. We compared endometrial and subendometrial blood flow between women with and without intramural fibroids during IVF treatment. METHODS Three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound examination with power Doppler was performed on the day of oocyte retrieval in 50 patients with intramural fibroids not distorting the uterine cavity and in 50 matched controls to measure endometrial thickness, uterine pulsatility index (PI)/resistance index (RI), endometrial volume and vascularization index (VI)/flow index (FI)/vascularization flow index (VFI) of endometrial and subendometrial regions. Smokers, patients with serum estradiol concentrations > or =20,000 pmol/l on the day of HCG and previous history of myomectomy were excluded. RESULTS Endometrial thickness and pattern, averaged uterine PI and RI and endometrial and subendometrial VI/FI/VFI were similar between the fibroid group and the control group. There was no correlation between the total volume of fibroids and endometrial and subendometrial 3D power Doppler flow indices in the fibroid group. CONCLUSION Endometrial and subendometrial 3D power Doppler flow indices were similar in patients with and without small intramural fibroids.
Ontology-based Merchandise Evaluation and Search

Merchandise search differs from general Internet search in many ways. First, the notion of a "good" answer to a query is quite different. When searching goods, the notion of a "good" answer is often defined as the "right" answer. Finding the right answer is often more difficult than finding the best answer in general Internet search. Second, Merchandise search includes many elements such as price, quality and location etc. In this paper, an ontology-based merchandise evaluation and search approach is presented, in order to improve the search relevance and precision. In this approach, three level mixed indices are established including word indices, ontology indices and ontology relationship patterns indices. With this approach, we can obtain the “right” answer quickly and efficiently, and the search processing can be integrated with a relational database system seamlessly.
Fetal gene defects precipitate platelet-mediated pregnancy failure in factor V Leiden mothers

We describe a mouse model of fetal loss in factor V Leiden (FvL) mothers in which fetal loss is triggered when the maternal prothrombotic state coincides with fetal gene defects that reduce activation of the protein C anticoagulant pathway within the placenta. Fetal loss is caused by disruption of placental morphogenesis at the stage of labyrinth layer formation and occurs in the absence of overt placental thrombosis, infarction, or perfusion defects. Platelet depletion or elimination of protease-activated receptor 4 (Par4) from the mother allows normal placentation and prevents fetal loss. These findings establish a cause–effect relationship for the observed epidemiologic association between maternal FvL status and fetal loss and identify fetal gene defects as risk modifiers of pregnancy failure in prothrombotic mothers. Pregnancy failure is mediated by Par4-dependent activation of maternal platelets at the fetomaternal interface and likely involves a pathogenic pathway independent of occlusive thrombosis. Our results further demonstrate that the interaction of two given thrombosis risk factors produces markedly disparate consequences on disease manifestation (i.e., thrombosis or pregnancy loss), depending on the vascular bed in which this interaction occurs.