Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Multi-modal Cognitive Architectures: A Partial Solution to the Frame Problem

Since its definition by McCarthy in 1969, the Frame Problem (FP) has been one of the more heavily debated problems in AI. Part of the debate has been on the exact definition of what the FP really is. The computational aspect of the FP can be thought of as reasoning about what changes and what doesn’t change in a dynamic world. The “sleeping dog strategy” is considered to be a viable solution to this aspect of the FP. We intend to show that this strategy has a weakness that can be partially solved using diagrammatic reasoning, under certain conditions. A related and equally important problem, called the Ramification Problem, is to be able to reason about the indirect effects of an action in the world. Our proposal provides a more efficient solution to the Ramification Problem when reasoning about spatial relations. To illustrate our solution, we introduce a problem solving architecture based on Soar that is augmented with a diagrammatic reasoning component. A problem state in this augmented Soar is bi-modal in nature, one part being symbolic and the other diagrammatic. We describe its use in certain problems and show how the use of diagrams can handle the frame and ramification problems with respect to spatial relations.
Performance evaluation of cell selection techniques for picocells in LTE-advanced networks

This survey paper provides a performance evaluation of some cell selection techniques proposed for picocells in the Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A) networks. Picocell is the focus of this study because it can be deployed in areas with high volume of traffic (such as hotspots) so as to improve the overall system capacity. A number of techniques are evaluated such as maximum Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), Cell Range Expansion (CRE) with static offset value and adaptive offset value as well as using Almost Blank Subframes (ABS) ratio. Then a comparison is provided in terms of cell throughput, cell edge throughput and Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) outage rate. The comparison described in this paper can be useful for readers interested to select the most appreciate cell selection technique for their particular goal.
The power of two min-hashes for similarity search among hierarchical data objects

In this study we propose sketching algorithms for computing similarities between hierarchical data. Specifically, we look at data objects that are represented using leaf-labeled trees denoting a set of elements at the leaves organized in a hierarchy. Such representations are richer alternatives to a set. For example, a document can be represented as a hierarchy of sets wherein chapters, sections, and paragraphs represent different levels in the hierarchy. Such a representation is richer than viewing the document simply as a set of words. We measure distance between trees using the best possible super-imposition that minimizes the number of mismatched leaf labels. Our distance measure is equivalent to an Earth Mover's Distance measure since the leaf-labeled trees of height one can be viewed as sets and can be recursively extended to trees of larger height by viewing them as set of sets. We compute sketches of arbitrary weighted trees and analyze them in the context of locality-sensitive hashing (LSH) where the probability of two sketches matching is high when two trees are similar and low when the two trees are far under the given distance measure. Specifically, we compute sketches of such trees by propagating min-hash computations up the tree. Furthermore, we show that propagating one min-hash results in poor sketch properties while propagating two min-hashes results in good sketches.
“The future is ours too”: A training process to enable the learning perception and increase self-efficacy in the use of tablets in the elderly

ABSTRACT The generational digital divide can be understood as a response to the physical and psychosocial decline of older people. Recently, there has been interest in reducing the generational digital divide because of societal costs, and several studies state that tablets seem to help the elderly due to usability and functions that easily fulfill the elderly’s needs to be connected, independent, and autonomous: It could increase the elderly’s well-being. This article presents a training program that increases self-efficiency and enables the learning perception and use of tablets. A qualitative-dominant co-occurrent mixed-methods design was used to assess the perception that the participants (50 participants over 65 years of age) had of their own learning process and success in the course, as well as their digital self-efficacy. The results appear to partially reflect previous research; moreover, perceived changes in self-efficacy and learning can be tied to three core themes—empowerment, integration, and autonomy.
Design of 8T-nanowire RAM array

SRAM based memory blocks constitute a major part of state-of-art processor architectures. Increasing complexity and variation in nanometer CMOS fabrication has prompted exploration of memory circuits based on emerging nanofabrics. In this work, we propose a new 8T-Nanowire based RAM (8T-NWRAM) circuit for high density memory arrays. The design is based on N3ASIC, a nanofabric using combination of crosspoint nanowire FETs and integration with metal interconnects. The layout implementation is optimized to reduce bitline load and achieve high performance. The upper bound on bitcell area is 0. 1μm2, which is 50% more compared to conventional 6T-SRAM. However, both performance and leakage are significantly improved. Circuit simulation using N3ASIC 2C-xnwFET device models show improvements of >2X in read time and ~4X in write time compared to high performance SRAM. The average leakage power at 0.2nW is ~20X smaller compared to high performance SRAM. In comparison with existing 10T-NWRAM, the 8T-NWRAM provides a twofold improvement in read time and ~46% faster write time, but at the expense of ~30% increase in area and average leakage power. Thus, 8T-NWRAM is a viable alternative to 10T-NWRAM for performance vs area/leakage design requirement. We also study the impact of supply noise induced clock jitter on NWRAM circuits and propose adequate design margin to ensure bitcell stability.
Knowledge-based assistance for accessing large, poorly structured information spaces

Large information spaces present several problems to people searching for interesting information including information overload. This thesis describes a novel approach to handling overload problems in the domain of Usenet News, an open access computer-based bulletin board system that distributes messages and software. A conceptual framework is developed that shows the need for (a) flexible organization of information access interfaces, (b) personalized structure to deal with vocabulary mismatches and individual information needs, and (c) semi-autonomous agents that assist in creating this personalized structure. In addition, an operational system (scINFOSCOPE) instantiate this framework allowing for the exploration and evaluation of the approach in realistic working environments. Using scINFOSCOPE, Usenet readers evolve the predefined system structure to suit their own tasks or semantic interpretations. Agents assist users by suggesting filters based on observed interest patterns. Evaluation of the system indicates that (1) personalized structure is quickly adopted and effectively used; (2) personalized structure reduces information overload caused by uninteresting messages; and (3) scINFOSCOPE agents are an effective aid to the creation of personalized structure in Usenet News. However, user studies have exposed deficiencies in the current implementation that indicate a more sophisticated suite of agents could increase the usefulness of many suggestions. (Also available from the University of Colorado at Boulder Computer Science Department as Technical Report # CU-CS-640-93.)
On the use of type predicates in object-oriented software: the case of smalltalk

Object-orientation relies on polymorphism to express behavioral variants. As opposed to traditional procedural design, explicit type-based conditionals should be avoided. This message is conveyed in introductory material on object orientation, as well as in object-oriented reengineering patterns. Is this principle followed in practice? In other words, are type predicates actually used in object-oriented software, and if so, to which extent? Answering these questions will assist practitioners and researchers with providing information about the state of the practice, and informing the active research program of retrofitting type systems, clarifying whether complex flow-sensitive typing approaches are necessary. Other areas, such as refactoring and teaching object orientation, can also benefit from empirical evidence on the matter. We report on a study of the use of type predicates in a large base of over 4 million lines of Smalltalk code. Our study shows that type predicates are in fact widely used to do explicit type dispatch, suggesting that flow-sensitive typing approaches are necessary for a type system retrofitted for a dynamic object-oriented language.
Source separation in post nonlinear mixtures: an entropy-based algorithm

This paper proposes a new approach for sources separation in special nonlinear mixtures, called post nonlinear mixtures (PNL). We first explain the nice separability properties of these mixtures: solutions have almost the same indeterminacies as in instantaneous linear mixtures. The method proposed in this paper is based on the minimization of the mutual information, which needs the knowledge of source distributions or more exactly of log-derivative of source distributions (the so-called score functions). The algorithm consists of three adaptive blocks: one nonlinear block is devoted to adaptive estimation of source score functions, and drives the adaptation of the two other blocks estimating the linear and nonlinear parts of the mixtures. The paper finishes with experimental results which illustrate the efficiency of the algorithm.
Trot gait based feed-forward walking on challenging terrain: Case of high step climbing

For a quadruped robot, the crawl gait is commonly used on rough terrain environment where a pre-motion planing is required. However its walking speed is slower than other walking gaits and make it difficult to develop a practical legged robot. Among the various types of gaits, we consider that the trot gait is safety gait which can prevent complete falling by hitting its swinging leg on the ground. Therefore in this paper we propose a new feed-forward trot gait algorithm based on 3D sway compensation trajectory which can control footsteps and position of the center of gravity for rough terrain environment. The validity of the proposed algorithm is confirmed by step climbing experiment using a spawling-type quadruped robot TITAN-XIII. As a result, the robot climbed up the step of 120 mm height which is 40% of its height in 3 seconds and proved the feasibility of the trot gait on a difficult terrain.
A three-order equal-ripple band-pass filtering antenna design using capacitive-gap coupled asymmetrical-CPW resonator

In this paper, a three-order equal-ripple bandpass filtering antenna design using capacitive-gap coupled asymmetrical-CPW resonator is presented. The asymmetrical coplanar waveguide consists of the left-side finite ground plane, which is similar to a strip and the right-side ground plane, which is a big ground plane. The operating bandwidth (5150-5825 MHz) was designed using conformal mapping technique and microwave-filter theory. However, it can be an antenna candidate due to the asymmetrical-CPW effect verified by simulated results, which show a -10 dB insertion loss and 70 % radiation efficiency.
Cell membranes, Lipid Bilayers, and the Elastica Functional

We study an energy functional that arises in a simplified two‐dimensional model for lipid bilayer membranes. We demonstrate that this functional, defined on a class of spatial mass densities, favours concentrations on ‘thin structures’. Stretching, fracture and bending of such structures all carry an energy penalty. In this sense we show that the models captures essential features of lipid bilayers, namely partial localisation and a solid‐like behaviour.
On the Hierarchical Structure of the Original Posner Task

The investigation of the reaction times obtained by means of the Posner task for measuring the speed of the retrieval of long-term memory contents revealed a hierarchical structure. This investigation also extended to the rule identity condition included in the original Posner task in addition to the commonly known and utilized physical and name identity conditions. Physical identity reaction times, name identity reaction times and rule identity reaction times constituted three first-order factors. The correlations among these first-order factors gave rise to the general second-order factor. Furthermore, there was an additional investigation of the causal effects among the first-order factors. The results suggested the processing stimulated by the physical identity condition as the basic source that contributes directly to the processing stimulated by the name identity condition and indirectly to the rule identity condition. Additionally there was a unique contribution of the name identity condition to the rule identity condition.
Geo-location based QR-Code authentication scheme to defeat active real-time phishing attack

Internet phishing attacks have been evolving along with the growth of online transactions on the Internet. MITM(Man-In-The-Middle) phishing is an attack that manipulates authentication and transaction information when an attacker is located in between a web server and a user. The possibility of this sort of phishing attack has been posed for a long time, but the menace was mostly ignored. Since Bruce Schneier introduced the concept of emasculating two-factor authentication in 2005, Leung and Jakobsson proposed Control Relay-MITM and doppelganger phishing attacks, respectively. In this paper, we introduce ART(Active Real-Time) MITM phishing attack as an enhanced phishing attack against above ones. While providing same UX(User eXperience) of real web server to a user, ART-MITM makes all security solutions that are installed on the user's computer useless and runs automated attack processes. To defeat against ART-MITM phishing attack, we propose a geo-location based QR-code authentication scheme using mobile phone. The proposed scheme provides convenience, mobility, and security for the user; as a result, the scheme can be seen as a realistic solution to such enhanced phishing attacks.
Particle Swarm Modelling of a Flexible Beam Structure

This paper presents a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm with dynamic spread factor inertia weight and its application to dynamic modeling of a flexible beam structure. In this study, system identification scheme based on PSO is formulated to obtain a dynamic model of the beam in parametric form. A PSO algorithm with dynamic spread factor inertia weight is proposed and its performance is assessed in comparison to a standard PSO in modelling the flexible beam structure.
Stellar Contribution to the Galactic Bulge Microlensing Optical Depth

We estimate the optical depth to self-lensing by stars in the Galactic bulge using the Hubble Space Telescope star counts of Holtzman et al. and Zoccali et al. as extrapolated by Gould into the brown dwarf and remnant regimes and deprojected along the line of sight using the model of Dwek et al. We find a self-lensing optical depth τ(bulge - bulge) = 0.98 × 10-6. When combined with the lensing of bulge stars by foreground stars in the disk, this yields τ(bulge - total) = 1.63 × 10-6, in reasonable agreement with the estimates of τ = 2.13 ± 0.40 × 10-6 and τ = 1.08 ± 0.30 × 10-6 based on observations of clump giants by the MACHO and EROS collaborations.
Second-Order Multidimensional ICA: Performance Analysis

Independent component analysis (ICA) and blind source separation (BSS) deal with extracting a number of mutually independent elements from a set of observed linear mixtures. Motivated by various applications, this paper considers a more general and more flexible model: the sources can be partitioned into groups exhibiting dependence within a given group but independence between two different groups. We argue that this is tantamount to considering multidimensional components as opposed to the standard ICA case which is restricted to one-dimensional components. The core of the paper is devoted to the statistical analysis of the blind separation of multidimensional components based on second-order statistics, in a piecewise-stationary model. We develop the likelihood and the associated estimating equations for the Gaussian case. We obtain closed-form expressions for the Fisher information matrix and the Cramér-Rao bound of the de-mixing parameters, as well as the mean-square error (MSE) of the component estimates. The derived MSE is valid also for non-Gaussian data. Our analysis is verified through numerical experiments, and its performance is compared to classical ICA in various dependence scenarios, quantifying the gain in the accuracy of component recovery in presence of multidimensional components.
Acquisition of Appropriate Bias for Inductive Concept Learning

Current approaches to inductive concept learning suffer from a fundamental difficulty; if a fixed language is chosen in which to represent concepts, then in cases where that language is inappropriate, the new concept may be impossible to describe (and therefore to learn). We suggest a framework for automatically extending the language in which concepts are to be expressed. This framework includes multiple sources of knowledge for recommending plausible language extensions.
Predict Protein 3 D Fold Using Knowledge Base Energy Function

The proteins three-dimensional structures can provide the essential information for protein function, and also provide a key to design drugs targeted at proteins. Hence, it is important to develop an efficient method for protein 3D structure prediction. In this paper, a fold recognition method of threading approach is developed to predict protein 3D structure from 2D structure. The 2D structure for the query sequence can be predicted first. Then an algorithm is developed to find the possible 3D folds as candidate folds that have similar 2D structure to the query protein. This approach can filter out 90.9% to 99.22% impossible folds. Next, query protein is substituted into all possible candidate folds according to the alignment with template protein, and their statistical knowledge base energy functions are calculated. A fold with minimum energy function will be selected as 3D structure of query protein. The weights of three scores of energy function can be optimized by using genetic algorithm. The accuracy of predicting a correct fold among 637 folds can research to 56.7%.
Finding parallel texts on the web using cross-language information retrieval

Discovering parallel corpora on the web is a challenging task. In this paper, we use cross-language information retrieval techniques in combination with structural features to retrieve candidate page pairs from a commercial search engine. The candidate page pairs are then filtered using techniques described by Resnik and Smith (2003) to determine if they are translations. The results allow the comparison of efficiency of different parameter settings and provide an estimate for the percentage of pages that are parallel for a certain language pair.
Bidirectional Natural Language Parsing using Streams and Counterstreams

This thesis investigates the bidirectional exchange of information between linguistic and non-linguistic semantic inputs containing ambiguities. Such exchange is critical to Cognitively Complete Systems, in which collections of related representations and processes cooperate for their mutual problem-solving benefit. The exchange paradigm of reconciliation is defined, in which ambiguities and gaps in multiple input domains are simultaneously resolved. A complete architecture for implementing reconciliation between the linguistic and non-linguistic semantic domains is described, employing the Streams and Counterstreams bidirectional search technique, Combinatory Categorial Grammar, and Lexical Conceptual Semantics. This architecture has been implemented, resulting in a system that can act as an ambiguity resolving constraint between linguistic and non-linguistic inputs, with the side effect of also producing a language parsing and generating system. For example, if the system is presented with the phrase “The orange rolls,” and a non-linguistic input (perhaps from a vision subsystem) describing the presence of bread (rolls) in the scene, the system will automatically select the interpretation of the the linguistic input describing pieces of bread of orange color. Thus, ambiguity is resolved in the linguistic domain, and the statement that the rolls have the property orange can be propagated to the non-linguistic semantic domain. Thesis Supervisor: Patrick H. Winston Title: Ford Professor of Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science
Culture and Educational Stress and Internalizing Symptoms Among Latino Adolescents: The Role of Ethnic Identity

ABSTRACT Discrimination experienced by Latino youth in school has been explored in past research although the interrelatedness of culture and educational stress—the stress due to Hispanic culture not being acknowledged in school and racial tensions in school—has been less studied. The current study examines the effect of this stress on internalizing symptoms among 58 low-income Latino adolescents (Mage =13.31, 53% male) and tests whether ethnic identity moderates this association. Results show that culture and educational stress is associated with worse mental health. Further, a significant ethnic identity X stress interaction was found for somatic problems showing that youth high in ethnic identity exploration reported more somatic problems in the face of high culture and educational stress. Hence, youth who are more actively exploring their identity may be more vulnerable to the damaging context of culture and educational stress. Implications for multicultural consultation are discussed.
Paternal age and reproduction.

BACKGROUND Due to various sociological factors, couples in developed countries are increasingly delaying childbearing. Besides ethical, economical and sociological issues, this trend presents us with several complex problems in reproduction. Although it is well-known that maternal age has a negative effect on fertility and increases the risk of adverse outcome during pregnancy and in offspring, the paternal influence on these outcomes is less well researched and not well-known. METHODS We performed a systematic search of PubMed, and retrieved original articles and review articles to update our previous survey in this journal. RESULTS This review highlights the link between male age and genetic abnormalities in the germ line and summarizes the knowledge about the effects of paternal age on reproductive function and outcome. Increasing paternal age can be associated with decreasing androgen levels, decreased sexual activity, alterations of testicular morphology and a deterioration of semen quality (volume, motility, morphology). Increased paternal age has an influence on DNA integrity of sperm, increases telomere length in spermatozoa and is suggested to have epigenetic effects. These changes may, at least in part, be responsible for the association of paternal age over 40 years with reduced fertility, an increase in pregnancy-associated complications and adverse outcome in the offspring. CONCLUSION Although higher maternal age can be an indication for intensive prenatal diagnosis, including invasive diagnostics, consideration of the available evidence suggests that paternal age itself, however, provides no rationale for invasive procedures.