Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Few-Round Learning for Federated Learning

In federated learning (FL), a number of distributed clients targeting the same task collaborate to train a single global model without sharing their data. The learning process typically starts from a randomly initialized or some pretrained model. In this paper, we aim at designing an initial model based on which an arbitrary group of clients can obtain a global model for its own purpose, within only a few rounds of FL. The key challenge here is that the downstream tasks for which the pretrained model will be used are generally unknown when the initial model is prepared. Our idea is to take a meta-learning approach to construct the initial model so that any group with a possibly unseen task can obtain a high-accuracy global model within only R rounds of FL . Our meta-learning itself could be done via federated learning among willing participants and is based on an episodic arrangement to mimic the R rounds of FL followed by inference in each episode. Extensive experimental results show that our method generalizes well for arbitrary groups of clients and provides large performance improvements given the same overall communication/computation resources, compared to other baselines relying on known pretraining methods.
Faster Directional Convergence of Linear Neural Networks under Spherically Symmetric Data

In this paper, we study gradient methods for training deep linear neural networks with binary cross-entropy loss. In particular, we show global directional convergence guarantees from a polynomial rate to a linear rate for (deep) linear networks with spherically symmetric data distribution, which can be viewed as a speciﬁc zero-margin dataset. Our results do not require the assumptions in other works such as small initial loss, presumed convergence of weight direction, or overparam-eterization. We also characterize our ﬁndings in experiments.
Asymptotically Best Causal Effect Identification with Multi-Armed Bandits

This paper considers the problem of selecting a formula for identifying a causal quantity of interest among a set of available formulas. We assume an sequential setting in which the investigator may alter the data collection mechanism in a data-dependent way with the aim of identifying the formula with lowest asymptotic variance in as few samples as possible. We formalize this setting by using the best-arm-identiﬁcation bandit framework where the standard goal of learning the arm with the lowest loss is replaced with the goal of learning the arm that will produce the best estimate. We introduce new tools for constructing ﬁnite-sample conﬁdence bounds on estimates of the asymptotic variance that account for the estimation of potentially complex nuisance functions, and adapt the best-arm-identiﬁcation algorithms of LUCB and Successive Elimination to use these bounds. We validate our method by providing upper bounds on the sample complexity and an empirical study on artiﬁcially generated data.
Performance bounds for optimal feedback control performance and robustness in networks

—Important complex networks including critical infrastructure and emerging industrial automation systems are becoming increasingly intricate webs of interacting feedback control loops. A fundamental concern is to quantify the control properties and performance limitations of the network as a function of the structure of its dynamics and control architecture. We study performance bounds for networks in terms of both optimal and robust feedback control costs as a function of the system dynamics and actuator structure. For unstable network dynamics, we demonstrate a trade-off between feedback control performance and the number of control inputs, in particular showing that optimal cost can increase exponentially with the size of the network. Likewise, we demonstrate a trade-off between robustness and the numbers of control and adversarial inputs. We also derive a bound on the performance of the worst-case actuator subset for open-loop stable networks, providing insight into dynamics properties that affect the potential efﬁcacy of actuator selection. However, we show that such a bound is generally not guaranteed even for open-loop stable networks in terms of robustness to adversarial inputs. When the open-loop network dynamics has a ﬁnite H ∞ norm with respect to the adversarial inputs, we ﬁnd an analogous performance bound of the worst case actuator set. We illustrate our results with numerical experiments that analyze performance in regular and random networks.
Study on Calculating Methods of Young Women Body Circumferences Based on 3D Point-Cloud Data

In this research, 425 female students were selected as the research objects. Point clouds were obtained by 3D body scanner , then the characteristics of female lower body parts’ (waist, abdomen, buttock) section shapes were identified . And the sizes of the width and thickness were measured by a data acquisition software named Imageware.The front and back circumferences were analysed by software of SPSS16.0. This research is main to provide a new method to divide and calculate body front and back circumferences, laying the foundation for fitting of women clothes.
Piecewise Constant Conic Sections for Accelerated Volume Density Rendering

In order to accelerate the rendering of volumetric shadows, we propose a new technique which builds sets of conic volumes to approximate the shape of shadows in a participating medium. The novelty of our approach is notably the construction of the cone-sets, which are built with no knowledge of the underlying geometry of the scene. Instead, information collected during the construction of a global photon map is used to derive an estimate of the outline of the shadows in three dimensions. This information is then used in several different ways to speed up the rendering pass. The method shares many of the advantages proposed by photon maps such as viewpoint independence and decoupling from the geometry of the scene.
Online Learning Of Neural Computations From Sparse Temporal Feedback

Neuronal computations depend on synaptic connectivity and intrinsic electrophysiological properties. Synaptic connectivity determines which inputs from presynaptic neurons are integrated, while cellular properties determine how inputs are ﬁltered over time. Unlike their biological counterparts, most computational approaches to learning in simulated neural networks are limited to changes in synaptic connectivity. However, if intrinsic parameters change, neural computations are altered drastically. Here, we include the parameters that determine the intrinsic properties, e.g., time constants and reset potential, into the learning paradigm. Using sparse feedback signals that indicate target spike times, and gradient-based parameter updates, we show that the intrinsic parameters can be learned along with the synaptic weights to produce speciﬁc input-output functions. Speciﬁcally, we use a teacher-student paradigm in which a randomly initialised leaky integrate-and-ﬁre or resonate-and-ﬁre neuron must recover the parameters of a teacher neuron. We show that complex temporal functions can be learned online and without backpropagation through time, relying on event-based updates only. Our results are a step towards online learning of neural computations from ungraded and unsigned sparse feedback signals with a biologically inspired learning mechanism.
A Methodology and Dataset for Evaluation of Novel View Synthesis and Neural Rendering

Neural Rendering has seen an explosion in interest in recent years [1]. Nowadays it is possible to render novel views and video-like camera paths as if you have a perfect 3-d model of the scene, simply using a set of photographs as input. This topic has been approached from many different directions; the recent introduction of Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF [2]) which proposed implicit scene representations has resulted in a vast number of followup with projects, many different variations and applications [3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10]. In addition to NeRF-based solutions, more traditional scene representations such as meshes [11][12] or point clouds [13][14] have shown promising results with recent solutions. Both directions of research have their own pros and cons, and an important scientific question is evaluating the benefits and drawbacks of each approach.
A Generic Architecture for Cross-Virtuality

In this position paper, we provide an overview of a generic high-level architecture for cross-virtuality. The architecture is structured into six subcomponents in which we focus on the unique features and design considerations that are required for cross-virtuality. We hope that the architecture provides a basic foundation for future work in this area and that potential pitfalls can be avoided in advance. CCS Concepts: • Human-centered computing → Mixed / augmented reality . Additional
Estimation of the Substrate Size with Minimum Mutual Coupling of a Linear Microstrip Patch Antenna Array Positioned Along the H-Plane

Mutual coupling between antenna elements of a linear microstrip patch antenna array positioned along the H-plane including the effect of edge reflections is investigated. Simple formulas are presented for the estimation of the grounded dielectric substrate size with minimum mutual coupling. The substrate sizes calculated by these formulas are in good agreement with those obtained by the full-wave simulation and experimental measurement. The substrate size with minimum mutual coupling is a function of the effective dielectric constant for surface waves and the distance between the antenna centers. The substrate size with minimum mutual coupling decreases as the effective dielectric constant for surface waves on a finite grounded dielectric substrate increases.
Developments in optical waveguide fabrication by the outside vapor deposition process

Improvements in optical fiber fabrication made over the last two years using the outside vapor deposition (OVD) process are reported. Advances have been made in the areas of optical and mechanical performance for existing products, dopant changes, and single-mode fiber designs. A multimode fiber having no P 2 O 5 in the core has been demonstrated which also exhibits uniform forward and cutback bandwidth-length dependence and improved resistance to the effects of hydrogen. Data is also presented on a dispersion-shifted single-mode fiber made using the segmented core approach which has recently been put into production.
A new generation of SIS receivers for millimeter-wave radio astronomy

A new generation of low-noise, dual-polarization heterodyne receivers covering all atmospheric windows between 68 and 300 GHz has been developed for the 12-m telescope on Kitt Peak, AZ, operated by the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO). A modular approach to the receiver construction has been used. Each receiver channel is constructed as a self-contained insert which is mounted in a dewar equipped with a closed-cycle 4 K refrigerator capable of cooling up to eight inserts, thereby enabling several frequency bands to be contained within one dewar. The telescope and receiver optics are so arranged that switching between frequency bands may be accomplished rapidly by rotating the optical elements placed in the signal path. Single-sideband noise temperatures ranging from 50 to 400 K are obtained across the frequency range. >
Differential Actions of Muscarinic Receptor Subtypes in Gastric, Pancreatic, and Colon Cancer

Cancers arising from gastrointestinal epithelial cells are common, aggressive, and difficult to treat. Progress in this area resulted from recognizing that the biological behavior of these cancers is highly dependent on bioactive molecules released by neurocrine, paracrine, and autocrine mechanisms within the tumor microenvironment. For many decades after its discovery as a neurotransmitter, acetylcholine was thought to be synthesized and released uniquely from neurons and considered the sole physiological ligand for muscarinic receptor subtypes, which were believed to have similar or redundant actions. In the intervening years, we learned this former dogma is not tenable. (1) Acetylcholine is not produced and released only by neurons. The cellular machinery required to synthesize and release acetylcholine is present in immune, cancer, and other cells, as well as in lower organisms (e.g., bacteria) that inhabit the gut. (2) Acetylcholine is not the sole physiological activator of muscarinic receptors. For example, selected bile acids can modulate muscarinic receptor function. (3) Muscarinic receptor subtypes anticipated to have overlapping functions based on similar G protein coupling and downstream signaling may have unexpectedly diverse actions. Here, we review the relevant research findings supporting these conclusions and discuss how the complexity of muscarinic receptor biology impacts health and disease, focusing on their role in the initiation and progression of gastric, pancreatic, and colon cancers.
Design of Biopolymer-Based Interstitial Therapies for the Treatment of Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common form of primary brain cancer and has the highest morbidity rate and current treatments result in a bleak 5-year survival rate of 5.6%. Interstitial therapy is one option to increase survival. Drug delivery by interstitial therapy most commonly makes use of a polymer implant encapsulating a drug which releases as the polymer degrades. Interstitial therapy has been extensively studied as a treatment option for GBM as it provides several advantages over systemic administration of chemotherapeutics. Primarily, it can be applied behind the blood–brain barrier, increasing the number of possible chemotherapeutic candidates that can be used and reducing systemic levels of the therapy while concentrating it near the cancer source. With interstitial therapy, multiple drugs can be released locally into the brain at the site of resection as the polymer of the implant degrades, and the release profile of these drugs can be tailored to optimize combination therapy or maintain synergistic ratios. This can bypass the blood–brain barrier, alleviate systemic toxicity, and resolve drug resistance in the tumor. However, tailoring drug release requires appropriate consideration of the complex relationship between the drug, polymer, and formulation method. Drug physicochemical properties can result in intermolecular bonding with the polymeric matrix and affect drug distribution in the implant depending on the formulation method used. This review is focused on current works that have applied interstitial therapy towards GBM, discusses polymer and formulation methods, and provides design considerations for future implantable biodegradable materials.
Ten simple rules for creating a scientific web application

The use of scientific web applications (SWApps) across biological and environmental sciences has grown exponentially over the past decade or so. Although quantitative evidence for such increased use in practice is scant, collectively, we have observed that these tools become more commonplace in teaching, outreach, and in science coproduction (e.g., as decision support tools). Despite the increased popularity of SWApps, researchers often receive little or no training in creating such tools. Although rolling out SWApps can be a relatively simple and quick process using modern, popular platforms like R shiny apps or Tableau dashboards, making them useful, usable, and sustainable is not. These 10 simple rules for creating a SWApp provide a foundation upon which researchers with little to no experience in web application design and development can consider, plan, and carry out SWApp projects.
A Comparison of the Stability Performance of Blends of Paraffinic Diesel and Petroleum-Derived Diesel, with RME Biodiesel Using Laboratory Stability Measurement Techniques

In 2012, a new specification for synthetic fuels containing up to 7% biodiesel (FAME) was approved (CEN TS 15940). This specification allows the sale of neat paraffinic diesel, such as Gas-to-Liquids (GTL) diesel, to captive fleets in Europe. Several aspects are important in the final end-use application, including the stability of the fuel. The current study evaluated the stability of neat GTL diesel and FAME/paraffinic fuel blends via standard laboratory stability tests commonly used to study petroleum-derived fuels. The stability of GTL diesel, containing biodiesel, was evaluated using the Rancimat, PetroOxy, and ASTMD2274 tests. Selected samples were also evaluated using ASTM D5304. The Rancimat results indicated that FAME/GTL diesel blends performed similar to the FAME/petroleum derived fuel blends. In the PetroOxy test, the addition of more than 2 v/v% of a highly stable FAME resulted in an unexpected boost in the stability of the FAME/GTL diesel blend. The ASTM D2274 results were generally insensitive to the addition of FAME. The correlation between the PetroOxy and Rancimant tests was evaluated and found to be base fuel dependent. From this study it was concluded that GTL diesel (in blends with FAME) performed similar to petroleum-derived reference fuels in standard laboratory stability.
Serum supplementation during bovine embryo culture affects their development and proliferation through macroautophagy and endoplasmic reticulum stress regulation

Serum supplementation during bovine embryo culture has been demonstrated to promote cell proliferation and preimplantation embryo development. However, these desirable outcomes, have been associated with gene expression alterations of pathways involved in macroautophagy, growth, and development at the blastocyst stage, as well as with developmental anomalies such as fetal overgrowth and placental malformations. In order to start dissecting the molecular pathways by which serum supplementation of the culture medium during the preimplantation stage promotes developmental abnormalities, we examined blastocyst morphometry, inner cell mass and trophectoderm cell allocations, macroautophagy, and endoplasmic reticulum stress. On day 5 post-insemination, > 16 cells embryos were selected and cultured in medium containing 10% serum or left as controls. Embryo diameter, inner cell mass and trophectoderm cell number, and macroautophagy were measured on day 8 blastocysts (BL) and expanded blastocysts (XBL). On day 5 and day 8, we assessed transcript level of the ER stress markers HSPA5, ATF4, MTHFD2, and SHMT2 as well as XBP1 splicing (a marker of the unfolded protein response). Serum increased diameter and proliferation of embryos when compared to the no-serum group. In addition, serum increased macroautophagy of BL when compared to controls, while the opposite was true for XBL. None of the genes analyzed was differentially expressed at any stage, except that serum decreased HSPA5 in day 5 > 16 cells stage embryos. XBP1 splicing was decreased in BL when compared to XBL, but only in the serum group. Our data suggest that serum rescues delayed embryos by alleviating endoplasmic reticulum stress and promotes development of advanced embryos by decreasing macroautophagy.
Attitudes towards Safe Listening Measures in Entertainment Venues: Results from an International Survey among Young Venue-Goers

Background: Sustained exposure to excess noise in recreational settings is among the main causes of hearing loss among young adults worldwide. Within a global effort to develop standards for safe listening in entertainment venues, this study aims at identifying modifiable factors (knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs), which can hinder or facilitate the acceptance of safe listening measures in public venues among young venue-goers. Methods: An online questionnaire was developed inspired by the Health Belief Model. It was divided into five sections: (i) socio-demographics (ii) listening habits, (iii) experiences with loud music, (iv) knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs, and (v) willingness to change. Participants were recruited through social media. Results: 2264 individuals aged 16–35 completed the questionnaire. Most visited entertainment venues relatively infrequently, with the majority of them only visiting once per month or less. Nevertheless, most reported having experienced the negative consequences of listening to loud music. Overall, most people were favorable towards preventive measures, especially quiet areas. Conclusion: Our findings stress the urge to address the issue of safe listening in public venues and support an approach based on the introduction of standards. Moreover, they provide us with information on key factors to be considered when introducing and communicating preventive measures in public entertainment venues.
Transition faults detection in bit parallel multipliers over GF(2 m )

In this article, a C-testable design for detecting transition faults in the polynomial basis (PB) bit parallel (BP) multiplier circuits over GF(2m) is discussed. For 100 percent transition fault coverage, the proposed technique requires only 10 vectors, irrespective of multiplier size, at the cost of 6 percent extra hardware. The proposed constant test vectors which are sufficient to detect both the transition and stuck-at faults in the multiplier circuits can be derived directly without any requirement of an ATPG tool. As the GF(2m) multipliers have found critical applications in public key cryptography and need secure internal testing, a Built-in Self-Test (BIST) circuit may be used for generating test patterns internally. This will obviate the need of having three extra pins for the control inputs and also provides public-key security in cryptography. Area and delay of the testable circuit are analyzed using Synopsys® tools with 0. 18µ CMOS technology library from UMC.
Serum and plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor concentration are elevated by systemic but not local passive heating

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a key role in neuronal adaptations. While previous studies suggest that whole-body heating can elevate circulating BDNF concentration, this is not known for local heating protocols. This study investigated the acute effects of whole-body versus local passive heating on serum and plasma BDNF concentration. Using a water-perfused suit, ten recreationally active males underwent three 90 min experimental protocols: heating of the legs with upper-body cooling (LBH), whole-body heating (WBH) and a control condition (CON). Blood samples were collected before, immediately after and 1 h post-heating for the determination of serum and plasma BDNF concentration, platelet count as well as the BDNF release per platelet. Rectal temperature, cardiac output and femoral artery shear rate were assessed at regular intervals. Serum and plasma BDNF concentration were elevated after WBH (serum: 19.1±5.0 to 25.9±11.3 ng/ml, plasma: 2.74±0.9 to 4.58±2.0; p<0.044), but not LBH (serum: 19.1±4.7 to 22.3±4.8 ng/ml, plasma: 3.25±1.13 to 3.39±0.90 ng/ml; p>0.126), when compared with CON (serum: 18.6±6.4 to 16.8±3.4 ng/ml, plasma: 2.49±0.69 to 2.82±0.89 ng/ml); accompanied by an increase in platelet count (p<0.001). However, there was no change in BDNF content per platelet after either condition (p = 0.392). All physiological measures were elevated to a larger extent after WBH compared with LBH (p<0.001), while shear rate and rectal temperature were higher during LBH than CON (p<0.038). In conclusion, WBH but not LBH acutely elevates circulating BDNF concentration. While these findings further support the use of passive heating to elevate BDNF concentration, a larger increase in shear rate, sympathetic activity and/or rectal temperature than found after LBH appears needed to induce an acute BDNF response by passive heating.