Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Digitizing Latin Incunabula: Challenges, Methods, and Possibilities

Incunabula, or books printed before 1500, are extremely difficult and expensive to convert to digital form. The primary challenges arise from the use of non-standard typographical glyphs based on medieval handwriting to abbreviate words. Further difficulties are also posed by the practice of inconsistently marking word breaks at the end of lines and reducing or even eliminating spacing between some words. As such, these documents form a distinct genre of electronic document that poses unique challenges for conversion to digital form. From 2005– 2007, the Preservation and Access Research and Development Program at the National Endowment for the Humanities funded a study to explore methods for digitizing these difficult texts. This paper describes some of the results of that project. [1]
Effect of inert fibre on performance of B. eurycoma as rheology and filtration control additive in water-based drilling fluid

B.Eurycoma also known as 'Achi' is one of the lesser known legumes which have not been fully utilised. It is employed in food industry as thickener. In order to create new market for the product, this paper investigates its potential in the production of water based drilling fluid. The fluid was developed using clay from Ohia in Abia State, Nigeria. The effect of Achi with Coconut and Corn starch fiber was investigated on rheology and filtration. Clay beneficiation was achieved by examining KOH, NaOH and NaHCO3 at different concentrations and time. The best chemical was selected and modified clay was combined with de-fattened Achi, corn starch and coconut fiber for drilling fluid production using experimental design technique. A smaller fluid loss (12 ml/30 Mins/100 psi) when compared to the API recommended value (15 ml/30 Mins/100 psi) was obtained. However, the rheology requires further improvement to meet the API recommended standard.
Is painless synovitis different from painful synovitis? A controlled, ultrasound, radiographic, clinical trial

OBJECTIVE: This study compares the clinical, ultrasonography, radiography, and laboratory outcomes of painless and painful chronic synovitis in patients with established rheumatoid arthritis. METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 60 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and synovitis in the metacarpophalangeal joints; 30 of the patients did not experience pain, and 30 had experienced pain for at least 6 months prior to the study. The radiocarpal, distal radioulnar, and metacarpophalangeal joints were evaluated using the ultrasound gray scale, power Doppler, and radiography. Past and present clinical and laboratory findings were also evaluated. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between the groups for most of the outcomes. The group with pain scored worse on the disease activity indices (e.g., DAS 28 and SDAI), function questionnaires (HAQ and Cochin), and pinch strength test. A logistic regression analysis revealed that the use of an immunobiological agent was associated with a 3-fold greater chance of belonging to the group that experienced pain. The painless group had worse erosion scores in the second and fifth metacarpophalangeal with odd ratios (ORs) of 6.5 and 3.5, respectively. The painless group had more cartilage with grade 4 damage in the third metacarpophalangeal. CONCLUSIONS: The rheumatoid arthritis patients with both painless and painful synovitis exhibited similar disease histories and radiographic and ultrasound findings. However, the ultrasonography evaluation revealed worse scores in the second and fifth metacarpophalangeal of the synovitis patients who did not experience pain.
Using Framework Introspection for a Deep Integration of Domain-Specific Models in Java Applications

Domain-specific models and languages are an attractive approach to raise the level of abstraction in software engineering. In this paper, we first analyze and categorize the semantic dependencies that exist between domain-specific models and their generated implementations via frameworks and customization code in a target programming language. We then demonstrate that framework introspection allows a deeper integration of domain-specific models into statically and polymorphically typed objectoriented languages like Java. Using the example of an introspective persistence and query framework for Java, we demonstrate how programmer productivity and software quality can be improved substantially. Since the Java IDE captures the semantic dependencies between the Java application and its embedded domain-specific model(s), it is able to provide programmers with powerful consistency checking, navigation, refactoring, and auto-completion support also for the domain-specific models. Our introspective approach works for whitebox and blackbox frameworks and is particularly suited for the integration of multiple domain-specific models (e.g. data model, interaction model, deployment model) in one application. Due to space limitations, these benefits [2] are not covered in detail in this paper. The paper ends with a discussion of future work on how introspective models can improve the maintenance of long-lived business applications.
Developing a generalised neural-fuzzy hydrocyclone model for particle separation

Development of a neural-fuzzy model for an operational hydrocyclone is reported in this paper. The model integrates the benefits of the artificial neural network (ANN) and the fuzzy-logic techniques. It preserves the generalisation capability of an ANN, while expressing the final model in fuzzy rules. These rules can be modified and examined by the user. This will in turn control the interpretation ability of the system. Results from a case study have shown that the new proposed neural-fuzzy hydrocyclone model produces comparable results as those from the ANN model but with an added advantage of the use of linguistic fuzzy rules.
The Power of Rankings: Quantifying the Effect of Rankings on Online Consumer Search and Purchase Decisions

Online search intermediaries, such as Amazon or Expedia, use rankings (ordered lists) to present third party sellers’ products to consumers. These rankings decrease consumer search costs and increase the probability of a match with a seller, ultimately increasing consumer welfare. Constructing relevant rankings requires understanding their causal effect on consumer choices. However, this is challenging since rankings are endogenous: highly ranked products are also the most relevant ones for consumers. In this paper, I use the first data set with experimental variation in the ranking from a field experiment at Expedia to identify the causal effect of rankings. Using this data set, I make three contributions. First, I show that rankings affect what consumers search, but conditional on search, do not affect purchases. I also exploit a feature of the data set (opaque offers), to show that rankings lower search costs, instead of affecting consumer expectations or utility. Second, I quantify the effect of rankings using a sequential search model and find an average position effect of $2.64, lower than previous estimates in the literature obtained without experimental variation. Finally, I show that a utility-based ranking built on this model’s estimates leads to an almost twofold increase in consumer welfare, while also increasing transactions and revenue for the search intermediary.
Large Photovoltages Generated by Plant Photosystem I Crystals

Light energy conversion to electrical energy in photosynthesis and in photovoltaic devices is initiated by separation of charges that generates a photovoltage across an energy barrier in the system. [ 1–3 ] In conventional devices, mostly based on semiconductors, [ 4 ] the photovoltage is limited by the bandgap energy. Anomalous photovoltaic effects, in which the generated photovoltage is larger than the bandgap, have been reported in polar materials such as ferroelectric crystals, [ 5 , 6 ] but also in various amorphous and polycrystalline semiconductors. [ 7–10 ] Can a photoactive biological protein also generate an anomalous photovoltage? Natural candidates are photosynthetic reaction centers such as plant photosystem I (PSI), which are highly effi cient light energy converters found in thylakoid membranes inside the chloroplasts of green plants. [ 11 , 12 ] Here we show that these dried micrometer-thick crystalline biological protein complexes made of plant PSI [ 13 ] can generate unprecedented high photovoltages (well above 10 V) when placed on a conducting solid surface and measured by Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM). The measured photovoltages give rise to internal electric fi elds as large as 100 kV cm − 1 , which are among the highest values ever reported in an inorganic material system. We suggest that these high values result from depletion of the P700 electron donor centers and trapping centers in the PSI complex. We also present an equation depicting the dependence of the large photovoltage phenomenon in plant PSI crystals on light intensity. The unprecedented photovoltage, the microscale dimensions, and the high quantum yield make the PSI crystals intriguing units for potential use in optoelectronic devices. Photosynthetic reaction centers such as PSI evolved over a billion years to become highly effi cient light energy converters.
The use of object-oriented models in requirements engineering: a field study

In many organizations, there has been a move toward the use of object-oriented methods for the development of information systems. Little is understood, or reported on the basis of research, of the use of object-oriented methods by practicing professionals in the production of requirements specifications for commercial or industrial sized projects. In this paper, we outline a conceptual framework of “what might be happening” in professional object-oriented requirements engineering based on the common characteristics of published, well known object-oriented methods. We then describe a research project and the findings from a set of six case studies that have been undertaken that examine professional practice from the standpoint of the epistemology contained in the conceptual model. In these studies, it was found that the more formal models of objectorientation were rarely used to validate, or even clarify, the specification with clients or users. Rather, analysts tended to use informal models, such as use cases or ad hoc diagrams, to communicate the specification to users. Formal models are more often used internally within the analysis team and for communicating the specification to the design team.
Secure attribute-based systems

Attributes define, classify, or annotate the datum to which they are assigned. However, traditional attribute architectures and cryptosystems are ill-equipped to provide security in the face of diverse access requirements and environments. In this paper, we introduce a novel secure information management architecture based on emerging attribute-based encryption (ABE) primitives. A policy system that meets the needs of complex policies is defined and illustrated. Based on the needs of those policies, we propose cryptographic optimizations that vastly improve enforcement efficiency. We further explore the use of such policies in two example applications: a HIPAA compliant distributed file system and a social network. A performance analysis of our ABE system and example applications demonstrates the ability to reduce cryptographic costs by as much as 98% over previously proposed constructions. Through this, we demonstrate that our attribute system is an efficient solution for securely managing information in large, loosely-coupled, distributed systems.
Bilateral elastofibroma dorsi

A 76-year-old female patient with a previous history of surgically resected rectal cancer for seven years was admitted for diagnostic investigation of bilateral and symmetrical dorsal masses. She reported chronic pain in the thoracic spine. At clinical examination, the masses were solid, mobile, located subcutaneously and inferiorly to the scapulae (Figure 1A). Computed tomography (CT) showed the presence of bilateral soft tissue masses in the infrascapular region (Figures 1B and 1C). On the basis of the clinical findings and the images, the diagnosis of elastofibroma dorsi (ED) was established. ED is a slow growing soft tissue pseudotumor incidentally diagnosed during routine imaging studies, that may also cause chronic scapular pain. It is a benign fibroelastic tumor inferiorly located in the infrascapular region, between the scapula and the thoracic wall deeply to the serratus and latissimus dorsi muscles, possibly inserting into the periosteum of the posterior ribs. Coincidentally such type of tumor has been detected at CT in up to 2% of elderly patients. It is most frequently found in elderly women (female to male ratio 5:1) in the age range between 65 and 70 years at the moment of the diagnosis. Unilateral masses are slightly more prevalent at the right side, but up to 60% of EDs are bilateral. Other reported sites include deltoid muscle, axillae, ischial tuberosity, olecranon, hands and feet, among others. It is also characterized by symptoms absence at early phases. With the disease progression, there is an increase in the mass volume, possibly limiting the upper limb motion, principally in the upward movements of the arm which require sliding of the scapula in relation to the thoracic wall. Such a movement may cause pain. Macroscopically, ED is characterized by an ill defined mass with fibrous tissue and internal adipose tissue. Histopathological analysis demonstrates non-encapsulated hypocellular mass composed of benign fibroblasts, eosinophilic collagen bundles and apparently fragmented elastic fibers, with groups of interposed mature adipocytes. Although in most cases of thoracic investigation magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is indicated to evaluate extrapulmonary lesions, and CT remains reserved for investigation of parenchymal diseases, CT may be diagnostic in cases where the lesion presents as an infrascapular or subscapular ill defined, nonencapsulated soft parts mass, isoattenuating to the muscles (fibrous tissue), interspersed with fat attenuation strips or lines. Homogeneity may be observed in cases of smaller masses. Bilateral elastofibroma dorsi
Evaluation of Bond Performance of Epoxy-Coated Reinforcing Steel Using Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis

The role played by epoxy coatings on the failure of standard beam-end specimens is explored. The specimen consists of a reinforcing bar embedded in concrete. As the bar is loaded, the specimen is placed in flexure, resulting in simultaneous tension in both the reinforcing steel and the concrete. The specimen is designed to duplicate the stress field that occurs in beams. Experimental results show that bond strength increases with additional cover and embedment length, but that bond strength per unit length decreases as embedment length increases. The results also show that epoxy coatings reduce bond strength, but that the effect is dependent on the bar size and the deformation pattern. The finite element model for the beam-end specimen includes representations for the deformed steel bar, the concrete, and the interfacial material. The interface is represented by special link elements that can be varied to match the stiffness and friction properties of the interfacial material. Cracking within the concrete is represented using A. Hillerborg's fictitious crack model. The goal of the model is to incorporate the key aspects of material behavior in as simple a representation as possible while duplicating the principal behavior of the test specimen.
The Norwegian patient experiences with GP questionnaire (PEQ-GP): reliability and construct validity following a national survey

Objectives The aim of this study was to test the reliability and validity of a new questionnaire for measuring patient experiences with general practitioners (PEQ-GP) following a national survey. Setting Postal survey among patients on any of 500 GPs patient lists in Norway. GPs were stratified by practice size and geographical criteria. Participants 4964 patients who had at least one consultation with their regular GP in the foregoing 12 months were included in the study. The patients were randomly selected after the selection of GPs. 2377 patients (49%) responded to the survey. Primary and secondary outcome measures The items were assessed for missing data and ceiling effects. Factor structure was assessed using exploratory factor analyses. Reliability was tested with item–total correlation, Cronbach’s alpha and test–retest correlations. Item discriminant validity was tested by correlating items with all scales. Construct validity was assessed through associations of scale scores with health status, the patients’ general satisfaction with the services, whether the patient had been incorrectly treated by the GP and whether the patient would recommend the GP to others. Results Item missing varied from 1.0% to 3.1%, while ceiling effects varied from 16.1% to 45.9%. The factor analyses identified three factors. Reliability statistics for scales based on these three factors, and two theoretically derived scales, showed item–total correlations ranging from 0.63 to 0.85 and Cronbach’s alpha values from 0.77 to 0.93. Test–retest correlation for the five scales varied from 0.72 to 0.88. All scales had the expected association with other variables. Conclusions The PEQ-GP has good evidence for data quality, internal consistency and construct validity. The PEQ-GP is recommended for use in local, regional and national surveys in Norway, but further studies are needed to assess the instrument’s ability to detect differences over time and between different GPs.
Exploring the Relationships between Personal Characteristics, Aims, and Reasons of Learning in Further Education by Associating Rule Mining

Learning occurs when previous perceptions of reality are not in harmony with current experience, creating dissonance. To deepen understanding of the complexities of adult learning, this study presents the relationship within students' mode of study, the aims of learning and the motivation of choosing the course in further education. Associating rule mining will be used to explore the dataset, associate with these three factors and extract valuable rules. Several important adult learning theories will be reviewed and applied to examine the result. This research will provide valuable insight into how individual learning styles are shaped and developed in the further education.
Adaptive Computation Paradigm in Knowledge Representation: Traditional and Emerging Applications

The constant demand for complex applications, the ever increasing complexity and size of software systems, and the inherently complicated nature of the information drive the needs for developing radically new approaches for information representation. This drive is leading to creation of new and exciting interdisciplinary fields that investigate convergence of software science and intelligence science, as well as computational sciences and their applications. This survey article discusses the new paradigm of the algorithmic models of intelligence, based on the adaptive hierarchical model of computation, and presents the algorithms and applications utilizing this paradigm in data-intensive, collaborative environment. Examples from the various areas include references to adaptive paradigm in biometric technologies, evolutionary computing, swarm intelligence, robotics, networks, e-learning, knowledge representation and information system design. Special topics related to adaptive models design and geometric computing are also included in the survey. DOI: 10.4018/978-1-4666-0261-8.ch009
Evolution of energy dissipation during four-point bending of bituminous mixtures

In this investigation, the fatigue life of bituminous mixtures is characterised using the four-point bending test. Two sets of bituminous concrete samples, one produced with unmodified binder and other with plastomer-modified binder, are subjected to repeated strain-controlled sinusoidal loading at 10 Hz frequency and 20°C. The test is conducted for three different strain amplitudes of 200, 400 and 600 microstrain and the corresponding stress and strain data are collected at 1/1000 second interval. In the first approach, these data are used to calculate total energy dissipation. The dissipation due to damage is determined by separating viscoelastic dissipation from the total dissipation. For this purpose, a linear viscoelastic model is used. In the second approach, the discontinuity in the evolution of phase lag determined from the stress–strain plot is taken as the onset of fatigue damage. The fatigue failure, as quantified by these two approaches, was found to be closer to the fatigue life computed using energy ratio method.
The Effect of Fluoroquinolone Antibacterials on the Adhesion of E.coli 078 to Buccal Epithelial cells

The effect of three fluoroquinolone antibacterial agent, ciprofloxacin, enrofloxacin, and flumequine on important virulence factors in the adhesion of E.colito epithelial cells was investigated. Specimens of buccal epithelial cells were obtained from healthy volunteers. The effects of MIC and sub-MICs of ciprofloxacin, enrofloxacin, and flumequine on the adhesion of E.coli 078 to buccal epithelial cells by in vitro method an bacterial morphology was studied using electron microscope. The three antibacterial agents significantly reduced the in vitro bacterial adhesion at all concentrations and that ciprofloxacin produced the greatest inhibition. Morphological changes in E.coli shown by electron microscopy were observed with all antibiotics tested with the prominent changes was exhibited by ciprofloxacin.
Fast Detection and Recovery from Communication Link Failures in a Smart Grid using OpenFlow

In this paper, we design and evaluate algorithms for fast recovery from link failures in a smart grid communication network, addressing all three aspects of link failure recovery: (a) link failure detection, (b) algorithms for computing backup multicast trees, and (c) fast backup tree installation. To address (a), we design link-failure detection and reporting mechanisms that use OpenFlow to detect link failures when and where they occur inside the network. OpenFlow is an open source framework that cleanly separates the control and data planes for use in network management and control. For part (b), we formulate a new problem, MULTICAST RECYCLING, that computes backup multicast trees that aim to minimize control plane signaling overhead. We prove MULTICAST RECYCLING is at least NP-hard and present a corresponding approximation algorithm. Lastly, two control plane algorithms are proposed that signal data plane switches to install pre-computed backup trees. An optimized version of each installation algorithm is designed that finds a near minimum set of forwarding rules by sharing forwarding rules across multicast groups, thereby reducing backup tree install time and associated control state. We implement these algorithms in the POX OpenFlow controller and evaluate them using the Mininet emulator, quantifying control plane signaling and installation time.
Relaxation oscillator calibration technique with comparator delay regulation

This paper presents an improved technique for the calibration of the relaxation oscillators with respect to the delay of the comparators. The drawbacks of the conventional topology for the relaxation oscillators are analyzed. Based on the analysis, the circuit modification which resolves the effects of the comparator delay in the trimming procedure is proposed. The simulations in ams 0. 18μ CMOS technology exhibit more than 5x the improvement in the precision compared to the conventional topology, evaluated in the temperature range from -40 to 125 °C.