Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Double flow reversal in thin liquid films driven by megahertz-order surface vibration

Arising from an interplay between capillary, acoustic and intermolecular forces, surface acoustic waves (SAWs) are observed to drive a unique and curious double flow reversal in the spreading of thin films. With a thickness at or less than the submicrometre viscous penetration depth, the film is seen to advance along the SAW propagation direction, and self-similarly over time t1/4 in the inertial limit. At intermediate film thicknesses, beyond one-fourth the sound wavelength λℓ in the liquid, the spreading direction reverses, and the film propagates against the direction of the SAW propagation. The film reverses yet again, once its depth is further increased beyond one SAW wavelength. An unstable thickness region, between λℓ/8 and λℓ/4, exists from which regions of the film either rapidly grow in thickness to exceed λℓ/4 and move against the SAW propagation, consistent with the intermediate thickness films, whereas other regions decrease in thickness below λℓ/8 to conserve mass and move along the SAW propagation direction, consistent with the thin submicrometre films.
The Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is pleased to present this national report on homelessness in America. The report was developed in response to Congressional directives that began in 2001 and charged the Department with assisting communities to implement local Homeless Management Information Systems or HMIS. The primary goals in promoting local HMIS implementation are to improve the delivery of services to homeless clients and to increase understanding of their characteristics and needs at the local and national levels. According to Senate Report 109-109, "The implementation of this new system would allow the Department to obtain meaningful data on the nation’s homeless population and develop annual reports through an Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR).
A Survey of Digital Rights Management Technologies

Digital Rights Management (DRM) refers to a broad category of access control technologies aimed at restricting the use and copy of digital content on a wide range of devices. We examine some recent and existing technologies that represent the standards of commercial DRM in most of mainstream media formats including film, e-book, broadcast TV, computer games and music. We discuss the architectures of these systems and their real world adoption and performances. We also look at some of the common pitfalls of DRM technologies and the attempts at building better systems.
Adaptive Predictive Control using GOBF-ARX Models: An Experimental Case Study

Abstract Industrial applications of model predictive control rely mostly on linear empirical models obtained by employing time series analysis approaches. These models can quickly become obsolete and require maintenance when the operating conditions become significantly different from the design conditions. The need to generate good predictions in the face of changing operating conditions and / or plant characteristics can be fulfilled through updating the linear model parameters online. This work is aimed at the development of adaptive MPC (AMPC) scheme based on ARX models, which are parameterized using generalized orthonormal basis filters (GOBF). The proposed model structure, in addition to capturing the dynamics with respect to the manipulated inputs, facilitates modeling of stationary as well as non-stationary components of the unmeasured disturbances. The feasibility of using the proposed AMPC scheme is established by conducting experimental studies on a benchmark Heater-Mixer setup.
Comparison of a physical-layer network coding system with iterative coding schemes

Physical layer network coding (PNC) is a novel technique that allows two users to exchange messages in a wireless network. PNC takes place at a relay node and exploits the interference caused by incoming signals from the two users to increase throughput. In this paper, the performance of a two-way relay network employing PNC is evaluated with three types of error-correcting codes used at the source and destination nodes, namely low-density parity-check codes, turbo codes and bit-interleaved coded modulation with iterative decoding (BICM-ID). All three coding schemes perform similarly in a single user system on the AWGN channel with no relay, but results obtained when employing PNC show that although there is an overall degradation in their performance of all three codes, the LDPC code performance is more seriously affected due to the Sum-Product decoding algorithm being less robust to unreliable symbols broadcast from the relay.
Agriculture and Income Distribution: Insights from a SAM of the Italian Economy /доклад на 10 конгрессе ЕААЕ, Exploring Diversity in the European Agri-Food System, Zaragoza, Spain, 28-31 August 2002

The paper presents the results of the first SAM analysis of the agricultural sector in Italy. A SAM of the Italian economy has been properly modified in order to focus the analysis on agriculture. Two type of analysis have been carried out: (i) a multiplier analysis, and (ii) an assessment of the distributive impacts of different agricultural policies. This paper proposes also a new method for disaggregating the institutional sectors and production factors in order to analyze income distribution within the economy, with special emphasis on the agricultural sector. Main results are: (i) ‘fully’ decoupled income supporting schemes (transfers to agricultural households) are the most equitable interventions and determine a perfect targeting of the distributive effect on the relevant institutional sectors; (ii) ‘partially’ decoupled income supporting interventions, as the ones implemented under the current CAP, are more effective than others in indirectly (i.e., through multiplier effects) generating positive impacts on the income of agricultural households; (iii) agricultural price support interventions show less desirable effects in terms of their distributive impacts: they are less effective as agricultural incomeincreasing policies and their distributive impacts are biased against poorer households both in agricultural and non-agricultural sectors.
A Time Series Analysis of Layoff Rates

This study attempts to shed some light on labor market behavior by examining layoff rates. Multiple regressions are employed to estimate layoff rate functions for 20 manufacturing industries using quarterly data. Some industries are found to postpone layoffs in the face of falling demand by at least a quarter period. Many industries apparently adjust their layoff rates to take account of the probability of rehiring their own employees. This behavior is likely to be associated with the degree of specific training that employees have. It represents a potential impediment to countercyclical policy measures.
The Hilbert-Huang Transform for Detection of Otoacoustic Emissions and Time-Frequency Mapping

This paper presents an application of the Hilbert-Huang transform (HHT) and ensemble correlation for detection of the transient evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAEs), and high resolution time-frequency mapping. The HHT provides a powerful tool for nonlinear analysis of nonstationary signals such as TEOAEs. Since the HHT itself does not distinguish between signal and noise it was used with ensemble correlation to extract information about intervals with correlated activity. The combination of methods produced good results for both tasks TEOAE detection and time-frequency mapping. The resulting detection performance, using the mean hearing threshold as audiological separation criterion, was a specificity of 81% at a sensitivity of 90% to be compared to 65% with the traditional wave reproducibility detection criterion. High resolution time frequency mapping predicted in more than 70% of the cases hearing loss at a specific frequency in cases of ski-sloping audiograms. The present m ethod does not require a priori information on the signal and may, with minor changes, be successfully applied to analysis of other types of repetitive signals such as evoked potentials.
An Efficient Rule-Based Classification of Diabetes Using ID3, C4.5, &amp; CART Ensembles

Conventional techniques for clinical decision support systems are based on a single classifier or simple combination of these classifiers used for disease diagnosis and prediction. Recently much attention has been paid on improving the performance of disease prediction by using ensemble-based methods. In this paper, we use multiple ensemble classification techniques for diabetes datasets. Three types of decision trees ID3, C4.5 and CART are used as the base classifiers. The ensemble techniques used are Majority Voting, Adaboost, Bayesian Boosting, Stacking and Bagging. Two benchmark diabetes datasets are used from UCI and Bio Stat repositories respectively. Experimental results and evaluation show that Bagging ensemble technique shows better performance as compared to single as well as other ensemble techniques.
Camera based pedestrian path prediction by means of polynomial least-squares approximation and multilayer perceptron neural networks

This paper provides a method to forecast pedestrian trajectories by means of polynomial least-squares approximation and multilayer perceptron artificial neural networks for traffic safety applications. The approach uses camera based head tracking as input data to predict a continuous trajectory for a 2.5 s future time horizon. Training and test is performed using 1075 recorded tracks of uninstructed pedestrians in common public traffic situations, including many challenging scenarios like starting, stopping and bending in. The neural network approach has the ability to handle these scenes by learning a single implicit movement model independent of a specific motion type. The polynomial approximation provides an extraction of the principal information of the underlying time series in the form of the polynomial coefficients, high independence of input data, e.g., sample rate, and additional noise resistance. Our test results show 24% lower prediction errors for starting scenes and 29% for stopping scenes in comparison to a constant velocity Kalman filter. Approaches using MLP without polynomial input and the usage of Support Vector Regression (SVR) as motion predictor are also outperformed.
Computer-mediated activity: functional organs in social and developmental contexts

The field of human-computer interaction (HCI) presents an enormous theoretical challenge to researchers trying to establish it as an integrated field of studies. To become such a field, HCI should be based on a conceptual scheme powerful enough to incorporate both human beings and computer technology within a coherent theoretical framework. One possible solution is based on the cognitive approach, according to which both human beings and computers can be considered as information processing units. If the basic mechanisms underlying human cognition and those underlying the functioning of computer systems are essentially the same, it is possible to use the same concepts and methods to analyze both entities and eventually to build a general theory that explains the functioning of higher-level systems composed of both human beings and computers. Another broad approach, which is becoming more popular, is based on a radically different assumption. It assumes that what is needed to make HCI a conceptually integrated field is a theory that describes and explains the larger context of human interaction with computers. This second approach employs another feature human beings and computers have in common: both are involved in real-life activities of computer use. If we can provide an account of the general context of computer use and identify the place of human beings and computers within this overarching scheme, we can understand interaction between them without assuming that they are basically the same kinds of entities. There are several versions of the contextual approach to HCI (see Nardi, chapter 4, this volume), which are almost unrelated to each other. What they have in common is their opposition to the currently dominant cognitive approach and related methodology and the more or less explicitly formulated idea that both human beings and computers develop in the process of cultural history and can be understood only within a social context. Activity theory is one of the concrete versions of the contextual approach. The theory is becoming more talked about in the field of HCI, but is still ``opaque'' for most researchers (Brusilovsky, Burmistrov, and Kaptelinin 1993). This chapter discusses the potential advantages and limitations of activity theory as a conceptual framework for HCI. It is not intended to present the basic ideas and principles of activity theory in relation to HCI (for such an introduction, see Bodker 1989, 1991; Kaptelinin 1992, this volume; Kuutti 1992, this volume; Zinchenko 1992, this volume) but instead attempts to put the theory into the context of the problems that researchers in the field are currently encountering.
Processing of Chlamydia abortus Polymorphic Membrane Protein 18D during the Chlamydial Developmental Cycle

Background Chlamydia possess a unique family of autotransporter proteins known as the Polymorphic membrane proteins (Pmps). While the total number of pmp genes varies between Chlamydia species, all encode a single pmpD gene. In both Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) and C. pneumoniae, the PmpD protein is proteolytically cleaved on the cell surface. The current study was carried out to determine the cleavage patterns of the PmpD protein in the animal pathogen C. abortus (termed Pmp18D). Methodology/Principal Findings Using antibodies directed against different regions of Pmp18D, proteomic techniques revealed that the mature protein was cleaved on the cell surface, resulting in a100 kDa N-terminal product and a 60 kDa carboxy-terminal protein. The N-terminal protein was further processed into 84, 76 and 73 kDa products. Clustering analysis resolved PmpD proteins into three distinct clades with C. abortus Pmp18D, being most similar to those originating from C. psittaci, C. felis and C. caviae. Conclusions/Significance This study indicates that C. abortus Pmp18D is proteolytically processed at the cell surface similar to the proteins of C. trachomatis and C. pneumoniae. However, patterns of cleavage are species-specific, with low sequence conservation of PmpD across the genus. The absence of conserved domains indicates that the function of the PmpD molecule in chlamydia remains to be elucidated.
Contribution of the -160C/A Polymorphism in the E-cadherin Promoter to Cancer Risk: A Meta-Analysis of 47 Case-Control Studies

Background The -160C/A polymorphism (rs16260) of E-cadherin, a tumor repressor gene, has been shown to be a tumor susceptibility allele for various types of cancers. Because the significance of this polymorphism to cancer risk has been recognized, there are increasing studies investigating -160C/A in different types of cancers and ethnic populations. However, there is still uncertainty about the level of risk for a variety of cancers. Methods To resolve the controversial question raised by these studies as of March 2012 and provide more statistical power for detecting the significance of -160C/A, we performed a meta-analysis of 47 case-control studies in 16 types of cancers (18,194 cases and 20,207 controls). A meta-regression model and subgroup analysis were employed to identify the source of heterogeneity. Publication bias was evaluated, and sensitivity analysis and cumulative evidence assessment were also performed. Results Using fixed- and random-effects models, the -160AA homozygote was more susceptible to urothelial cancer compared with the -160CA heterozygote. Additionally, the -160A allele is an ethnicity-dependent risk factor for prostate and colorectal cancers. Carriers of the -160A allele in Asians and Europeans were more susceptible to prostate cancer, whereas their North American counterparts seemed tolerant. The -160AA homozygote plays a protective role for Europeans who develop colorectal cancer. The stability of these observations was confirmed by a one-way sensitivity analysis. However, the cumulative evidence for all cancer types was considered ‘weak’ using the Venice guidelines. Conclusions A meta-analysis indicated that the -160A allele of E-cadherin provides a higher risk for the development of prostate and urothelial cancers and a protective role for colorectal cancer in an ethnicity-dependent manner.
HAT-P-11b: A SUPER-NEPTUNE PLANET TRANSITING A BRIGHT K STAR IN THE KEPLER FIELD

We report on the discovery of HAT-P-11b, the smallest radius transiting extrasolar planet (TEP) discovered from the ground, and the first hot Neptune discovered to date by transit searches. HAT-P-11b orbits the bright (V = 9.587) and metal rich ([Fe/H] = +0.31 ± 0.05) K4 dwarf star GSC 03561–02092 with P = 4.8878162 ± 0.0000071 days and produces a transit signal with depth of 4.2 mmag, the shallowest found by transit searches that is due to a confirmed planet. We present a global analysis of the available photometric and radial velocity (RV) data that result in stellar and planetary parameters, with simultaneous treatment of systematic variations. The planet, like its near-twin GJ 436b, is somewhat larger than Neptune (17 M⊕, 3.8 R⊕) both in mass Mp = 0.081 ± 0.009 MJ(25.8 ± 2.9 M⊕) and radius Rp = 0.422 ± 0.014 RJ(4.73 ± 0.16 R⊕). HAT-P-11b orbits in an eccentric orbit with e = 0.198 ± 0.046 and ω = 355. °2 ± 17. °3, causing a reflex motion of its parent star with amplitude 11.6 ± 1.2 m s−1, a challenging detection due to the high level of chromospheric activity of the parent star. Our ephemeris for the transit events is Tc = 2454605.89132 ± 0.00032 (BJD), with duration 0.0957 ± 0.0012 days, and secondary eclipse epoch of 2454608.96 ± 0.15 days (BJD). The basic stellar parameters of the host star are M⋆ = 0.809+0.020−0.027 M☉, R⋆ = 0.752 ± 0.021 R☉, and Teff⋆ = 4780 ± 50 K. Importantly, HAT-P-11 will lie on one of the detectors of the forthcoming Kepler mission; this should make possible fruitful investigations of the detailed physical characteristic of both the planet and its parent star at unprecedented precision. We discuss an interesting constraint on the eccentricity of the system by the transit light curve and stellar parameters. This will be particularly useful for eccentric TEPs with low-amplitude RV variations in Kepler's field. We also present a blend analysis, that for the first time treats the case of a blended transiting hot Jupiter mimicking a transiting hot Neptune, and proves that HAT-P-11b is not such a blend.
Frieze and Wallpaper Symmetry Groups Classification under Affine and Perspective Distortion

In this paper we study classification of 2D repeated patterns in terms of their respective symmetry groups — the well-known seven Frieze groups and 17 wallpaper groups. Computer algorithms for Frieze and wallpaper symmetry group classification are developed in Euclidean as well as affine spaces. Several symmetry invariants of these groups under affine transformations are analyzed in detail and used to extend the Euclidean group classification algorithm for patterns that are distorted under affine transformations. Experimental results on computer generated images and photos of natural scenes are presented. Precise classification of 2D repeated patterns in terms of their symmetry groups provides a computational means for image indexing, image matching, object recognition, and motion recovery. This is a report of an on-going research effort. Existing prbolems and future work are discussed.
Switched Capacitor Z-Source Inverter

This paper presents a novel inverter topology based on conventional Z-Source Inverter and Switched Capacitor DC-DC converter. Compare to other conventional topologies the proposed topology gives more boosting factor. Further the input current is continuous. In renewable energy conversion system, it is desirable to get high step up output voltage from a low input voltage source. The proposed topology can be suitable for renewable energy conversion system. The detail analysis of proposed topologies is presented and comparison study with other topology has been discussed in the paper. The effectiveness of the proposed topology is verified by PSIM simulation study.
A Low Complexity Multi-User Detector Employing Partial Decision Techniques for SCDMA Systems

In this paper, we propose and investigate a multiple antenna, space-code division multiple access (SCDMA) system operating on mobile Rayleigh fading channels, with the emphasis on measured channel data. The main objective is to improve the capacity performance of existing direct-spread code-division multiple access (DS- CDMA) systems by employing multiple transmit and/or multiple receive antennas. In the proposed system, partial decision variables (PDVs) in conjunction with multiple antennas are used to exploit the code and spatial diversity available in a SCDMA system. By detecting the received signal over different portions of the signaling interval, PDVs can be weighted using adaptive filtering techniques, improving signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR). Results through simulations show that PDV SCDMA assisted by adaptive filtering is capable of performing space-time code detection while suppressing multi-user interference (MAI)
Computational study of the impacts of mechanical and physical cell properties on mitotic cell rounding in developing epithelia

Mitotic rounding (MR) during cell division is critical for the robust segregation of chromosomes into daughter cells and is frequently perturbed in cancerous cells. MR has been studied extensively in individual cultured cells, but the physical mechanisms regulating MR in intact tissues are still poorly understood. A cell undergoes mitotic rounding by simultaneously reducing adhesion with its neighbors, increasing actomyosin contraction around the cortex, and increasing the osmotic pressure of the cytoplasm. Whether these changes are purely additive, synergistic or impact separate aspects of MR is not clear. Specific modulation of these processes in dividing cells within a tissue is experimentally challenging, because of off-target effects and the difficulty of targeting only dividing cells. In this study, we analyze MR in epithelial cells by using a newly developed multi-scale, cell-based computational model that is calibrated using experimental observations from a model system of epithelial tissue growth, the Drosophila wing imaginal disc. The model simulations predict that increase in apical surface area of mitotic cells is solely driven by increasing cytoplasmic pressure. MR however is not achieved within biological constraints unless all three properties (cell-cell adhesion, cortical stiffness and pressure) are simultaneously regulated by the cell. The new multi-scale model is computationally implemented using a parallelization algorithm on a cluster of graphic processing units (GPUs) to make simulations of tissues with a large number of cells feasible. The model is extensible to investigate a wide range of cellular phenomena at the tissue scale.
Extensions of Noether's Second Theorem: from continuous to discrete systems

A simple local proof of Noether's Second Theorem is given. This proof immediately leads to a generalization of the theorem, yielding conservation laws and/or explicit relationships between the Euler–Lagrange equations of any variational problem whose symmetries depend on a set of free or partly constrained functions. Our approach extends further to deal with finite-difference systems. The results are easy to apply; several well-known continuous and discrete systems are used as illustrations.