Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Robust Multiple Kernel k-means Clustering using Min-Max Optimization

Multiple kernel learning is a type of multiview learning that combines different data modalities by capturing view-specific patterns using kernels. Although supervised multiple kernel learning has been extensively studied, until recently, only a few unsupervised approaches have been proposed. In the meanwhile, adversarial learning has recently received much attention. Many works have been proposed to defend against adversarial examples. However, little is known about the effect of adversarial perturbation in the context of multiview learning, and even less in the unsupervised case. In this study, we show that adversarial features added to a view can make the existing approaches with the min-max formulation in multiple kernel clustering yield unfavorable clusters. To address this problem and inspired by recent works in adversarial learning, we propose a multiple kernel clustering method with the min-max framework that aims to be robust to such adversarial perturbation. We evaluate the robustness of our method on simulation data under different types of adversarial perturbations and show that it outperforms several compared existing methods. In the real data analysis, We demonstrate the utility of our method on a real-world problem.
Anderson acceleration for contractive and noncontractive operators

A one-step analysis of Anderson acceleration with general algorithmic depths is presented. The resulting residual bounds within both contractive and noncontractive settings reveal the balance between the contributions from the higher and lower order terms, which are both dependent on the success of the optimization problem solved at each step of the algorithm. The new residual bounds show the additional terms introduced by the extrapolation produce terms that are of a higher order than was previously understood. In the contractive setting these bounds sharpen previous convergence and acceleration results. The bounds rely on sufficient linear independence of the differences between consecutive residuals, rather than assumptions on the boundedness of the optimization coefficients, allowing the introduction of a theoretically sound safeguarding strategy. Several numerical tests illustrate the analysis primarily in the noncontractive setting, and demonstrate the use of the method, the safeguarding strategy and theory-based guidance on dynamic selection of the algorithmic depth, on a p-Laplace equation, a nonlinear Helmholtz equation and the steady Navier–Stokes equations with high Reynolds number in three spatial dimensions.
Wall crossing for K-moduli spaces of plane curves.

We construct proper good moduli spaces parametrizing K-polystable $\mathbb{Q}$-Gorenstein smoothable log Fano pairs $(X, cD)$, where $X$ is a Fano variety and $D$ is a rational multiple of the anti-canonical divisor. We then establish a wall-crossing framework of these K-moduli spaces as $c$ varies. The main application in this paper is the case of plane curves of degree $d \geq 4$ as boundary divisors of $\mathbb{P}^2$. In this case, we show that when the coefficient $c$ is small, the K-moduli space of these pairs is isomorphic to the GIT moduli space. We then show that the first wall crossing of these K-moduli spaces are weighted blow-ups of Kirwan type. We also describe all wall crossings for degree 4,5,6, and relate the final K-moduli spaces to Hacking's compactification and the moduli of K3 surfaces.
Multiservice-Based Network Slicing Orchestration With Impatient Tenants

The combination of recent emerging technologies such as network function virtualization (NFV) and network programmability (SDN) gave birth to the novel Network Slicing paradigm. 5G networks consist of multi-tenant infrastructures capable of offering leased network “slices” to new customers (e.g., vertical industries) enabling a new telecom business model: Slice-as-a-Service (SlaaS). However, as the service demand gets increasingly dense, slice requests congestion may occur leading to undesired waiting periods. This may turn into impatient tenant behaviors that increase potential loss of the business attractiveness to customers. In this paper, we aim to: 1) study the slicing admission control problem by means of a multi-queuing system for heterogeneous tenant requests; 2) derive its statistical behavior model; 3) find out the rational strategy of impatient tenants waiting in queue-based slice admission control systems; 4) prove mathematically and empirically the benefits of allowing infrastructure providers to share its information with the upcoming tenants; and 5) provide a utility model for network slices admission optimization. Our results analyze the capability of the proposed SlaaS system to be approximately Markovian and evaluate its performance as compared to a baseline solution.
Translation Operator in Joint Time-Vertex Domain: A Generalized Approach

The notion of translation (shift) is straightforward in classical signal processing, however, it is challenging on an irregular graph structure. In this work, we present an approach to characterize the translation operator in various signal domains. By a natural generalization from classical domains, one can characterize an abstract representation for the graph translation operator. Then we propose an isometric translation operator in joint time-vertex domain consistent with the abstract form of translation operators in other domains. We also demonstrate the connection between this notion and the Schrodinger equation on a dynamic system which intriguingly describes the idea behind translation on graph.
Learning Semantic Parsers from Denotations with Latent Structured Alignments and Abstract Programs

Semantic parsing aims to map natural language utterances onto machine interpretable meaning representations, aka programs whose execution against a real-world environment produces a denotation. Weakly-supervised semantic parsers are trained on utterance-denotation pairs treating programs as latent. The task is challenging due to the large search space and spuriousness of programs which may execute to the correct answer but do not generalize to unseen examples. Our goal is to instill an inductive bias in the parser to help it distinguish between spurious and correct programs. We capitalize on the intuition that correct programs would likely respect certain structural constraints were they to be aligned to the question (e.g., program fragments are unlikely to align to overlapping text spans) and propose to model alignments as structured latent variables. In order to make the latent-alignment framework tractable, we decompose the parsing task into (1) predicting a partial “abstract program” and (2) refining it while modeling structured alignments with differential dynamic programming. We obtain state-of-the-art performance on the WikiTableQuestions and WikiSQL datasets. When compared to a standard attention baseline, we observe that the proposed structured-alignment mechanism is highly beneficial.
Random Walk Equivalence to the Compressible Baker Map and the Kaplan-Yorke Approximation to Its Information Dimension

Hoover and Posch studied a single deterministic compressible time-reversible version of Eberhard Hopf's "Baker Map". This particular version was selected to serve as a "Toy Model" of nonequilibrium molecular dynamics. Iterating the map generates an ergodic fractal distribution with measure everywhere in a square domain. Two versions of the map are isomorphic to a third model, a one-dimensional random walk confined within the unit interval $(0 < y < 1)$ with leftward steps twice as likely as rightward. This correspondence between two-dimensional time-reversible deterministic $(q,p)$ and $(x,y)$ maps and the stochastic bounded one-dimensional $y$-direction walk is used here to characterize discrepancies between three different formulations of the fractal information dimension $D_I$ of the compressible Baker Map. We compare the Kaplan-Yorke conjecture, believed valid for these models, $D_I\stackrel{? }{=} D_{KY}$, to brute-force computations of either a few, or as many as a trillion iterations of the one- and two-dimensional Maps. The $(q,p)$ Baker Mapping contains square roots. These irrational numbers provide sufficient detail, or "noise", to avoid the periodic orbits that would otherwise short-circuit the convergence of the Baker Map to the steady state solutions found here. We find that the Kaplan-Yorke Lyapunov dimension, $D_{KY}$, accepted as correct for simple maps like ours based on the mapping of smooth density functions, differs from the simplest of several information dimension estimates. The latter estimate is based on repeated mappings of an initial point, as measured on a series of meshes ranging from (1/3) in width down to $(1/3)^{19}$. Other families of meshes support the conventional wisdom that the small-mesh limiting information dimension is given {\it exactly} by the 40-year-old Kaplan-Yorke "conjecture".
Identification of Quality within the Warehousing Function-A Study within Protea Chemicals

The process of warehousing is an integral component of every logistics system as it is the primary link between production, suppliers and customers. Warehousing should play a pivotal role by providing a desired level of customer service at the lowest possible total cost. If a logistics system functions effectively, warehouse facilities are able to reduce stock outs whilst simultaneously reducing inventory levels which leads to improved customer service levels. One of the most complex challenges that an organisation encounters is determining what customers (internal or external) truly values. Once an organisation has determined what factors customers value, only then can the organisation begin to attempt to put in place measures and systems to ensure that customer satisfaction is achieved. This research study aims at investigating the efficiency of warehousing within Protea Chemicals, with specific reference to the quality of its service. It investigates operational staff, line management and internal customers’ perceptions of Protea Chemical’s warehouse quality.
Physical and Mechanical Properties of Cassava-Bamboo Composite Lumber

The study was carried out to determine the physical and mechanical properties of composite lumber made from cassava (Mahinot esculenta Crantz) and bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris) in different ratios which is 100% cassava with 0% bamboo, 75% cassava with 25% bamboo, 50% cassava with 50% bamboo, 25% cassava with 75% bamboo and 0% cassava with 100% bamboo. The tests samples for determining the strength properties were divided into two categories namely mechanical testing and physical testing. Basic density of the samples was carried out for physical testing. The lowest basic density was in samples with 100% cassava which is 0.49 g/cm3 and highest in samples with 100% bamboo which is 0.68 g/cm3 . Two tests for the mechanical testing are bending test and compression test. In bending test, modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus of rupture (MOR) were both highest for samples with 100% bamboo which the reading of MOE was 16794.03 N/mm2 and 122.52 N/mm2 for MOR. Similar to the bending test, compression test is the highest for the samples with 100% bamboo which are 65.58 N/mm2 . From statistical analysis, the basic density, static bending can compression strength give significant value at 95% confidence interval.
DE NOVO ASSEMBLY AND DISCOVERY OF METABOLIC PATHWAYS AND GENES THAT ARE INVOLVED IN DEFENSE AGAINST PESTS IN SONGYUN PINUS MASSONIANA LAMB

Pest-resistant strains of Pinus massoniana Lamb. can defend themselves against pests. However, the mechanisms underlying pest resistance in them remain. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology was employed to examine the transcriptomes of insect-resistant and insect-sensitive strains of P. massoniana. In this investigation 98,547 transcripts and 55,824 unigenes were obtained. Among the unigenes, 35,214 sequences (63.08%) were annotated. Gene expression levels in strains with various levels of insect resistance were compared. After this comparison 511 genes were found to be differentially expressed. Pathway analysis of the differentially expressed genes revealed a number of important pathways, including the “terpenoid metabolic pathway” and the “flavonoid metabolic pathway”. The present study revealed that several important transcription factors (TFs), including WRKY and the Apetala2/ethylene responsive factor (AP2/ERF), as well as important enzymes such as abietadiene synthase, play significant roles in anti-pest responses. Discovery of these defense genes and pathways is conducive to further understanding of the mechanisms by which P. massoniana defends itself against pests. In addition, 11 genes that were assumed to participate in anti-pest responses were examined by real-time quantitative PCR to verify the accuracy of the transcriptome data. This study identified the metabolic pathways and related genes expressed by insectresistant P. massoniana varieties to improve their ability to defend against pests. The above data will provide multidimensional information regarding the molecular mechanisms of insect resistance in PM for the future researchers. Introduction Pests are an important factor affecting agricultural production and can cause serious economic and ecological losses. Long-term heavy application of pesticides not only induces pesticide resistance but also causes a series of social and environmental problems (Jander 2012, He et al. 2012). Cultivation of pest-resistant species is the most cost-effective way to solve pest problems. With the advances in molecular biology and bioinformatics, in-depth study of the mechanisms of insect resistance and mining of relevant insect-resistance genes have become hotspots in plant genetic engineering research and its practical application. In recent decades, a large number of studies on the mechanisms underlying the constitutive and induced plant resistance against pests have been conducted (Jander 2012, Liu et al. 2012). Novel potential biochemical pathways are constantly being discovered, and our understanding of the mechanisms driving insect resistance is continuously improving, opening new directions for revealing the mechanisms underlying insect resistance in plants. All plants have their own characteristic scents. Certain substances stimulate plants to exude these odors to reject insects from feeding on them (Xin et al. 2012). In addition, *Author for correspondence. These authors contributed equally to this study.
Measuring the effect of postal saving privatization on Japanese banking industry : Evidence from the 2005 general election Michiru Sawada

In this study, we empirically investigate the effect of the privatization of Japan’s postal savings system, the world’s largest financial institution, on the country’s banking industry on the basis of the general election to the House of Representatives on September 11, 2005—essentially a referendum on the privatization of the postal system. Econometric results show that the privatization of postal savings system significantly raised the wealth of mega banks but not that of regional banks. Furthermore, it increased the risk of all categories of banks, and the banks that were dependent on personal loans increased their risk in response to the privatization of postal savings. These results suggest that incumbent private banks might seek new business or give loans to riskier customers whom they had not entertained before the privatization, to gear up for the new entry of Japan Post Bank (JPB), the newly privatized institution, into the market for personal loans. Hence, privatization of postal savings system probably boosted competition in the Japanese banking sector. JEL Classification: G14, G21, G28
On cylindrical regression in three-dimensional Euclidean space

The three-dimensional cylindrical regression problem is a problem of finding a cylinder best fitting a group of points in three-dimensional Euclidean space. The words best fitting are usually understood in the sense of the minimum root mean square deflection of the given points from a cylinder to be found. In this form the problem has no analytic solution. If one replaces the root mean square averaging by a certain biquadratic averaging, the resulting problem has an almost analytic solution. This solution is reproduced in the present paper in a coordinate-free form.
Diagnostic verification of Brucella species among aborted small ruminants and in-contact persons in Minia governorate

In the current study, a total of 50 sheep, 23 goat and 60 human blood serum samples were collected for serological tests. A total of 30 (22 ewes and 8 does) milk samples, 43(25 ewes and 18 does) vaginal swabs, 14 preputial swabs from rams and 60 human citrated plasma were collected for bacteriological and molecular studies. All examined sheep and goat were non-vaccinated. Ewes and does had history of abortion, while rams had no clinical signs. Samples were collected from different localities at Minia governorate. Serological results using buffered acidified plate antigen test (BAPAT), rose Bengal test (RBT), rivanol test (RT), tube agglutination test (TAT), and indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA) gave 32(64%), 30(60%), 26(52%), 31 (62%), and 28 (56%) in sheep respectively, where in goat revealed 23(100%), 23(100%), 22(95.7%), 23(100%), and 22(95.7%) respectively. While human serum samples were 33(55%), 29(48.3%), 33(55%), 27(45%), and 23(38.3%) respectively. The bacteriological results revealed 35 isolates [10(45.5%), 4(50%), 4(16%), 10(55.6%), 2(14.3%), and 5(8.3%)] from ewes' milk samples, does' milk samples, ewes' vaginal swabs, does' vaginal swabs, rams' preputial swabs and human citrated plasma respectively. All 35 isolates were molecularly identified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as B. melitensis biovar3. Conclusively, brucellosis was endemic at Minia governorate with a high level especially in goat. Rams act as chronic carriers leading to public health hazards. B. melitensis is the prevalent serotype in Egypt. More effective preventive and control measures should be applied
The Transcription Factor ATHB 5 Affects GA-Mediated Plasticity in Hypocotyl Cell Growth during Seed Germination 1 [ CC-BY ]

• Users may freely distribute the URL that is used to identify this publication. • Users may download and/or print one copy of the publication from the University of Birmingham research portal for the purpose of private study or non-commercial research. • User may use extracts from the document in line with the concept of ‘fair dealing’ under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 (? ) • Users may not further distribute the material nor use it for the purposes of commercial gain.
MULTI-CRITERIA DECISION ANALYSIS INTEGRATED WITH GIS FOR RADIO ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATORY SITE SELECTION IN PENINSULAR OF

The purpose of this article is to choose the best possible places observations sites using Multi Geographical Information Systems ( Malaysia, which is favourable for astronomical site observatory facilities with its appropriate climate properties and weather environments categories; geographical and anthropogenic. Hierarchy Process technique and the weights of criteria lay the most suitable areas were located widely Malaysia. This finding offers a sturdy preliminary site selection for radio astronomical observatory.
Perceptions of participation and inclusion among adolescents with disabilities: experiences from South India

Disability is an issue of human rights and equal opportunity and is no longer focused on impairment and medical intervention. Adolescents with disabilities (AWD) are marginalised throughout the world (UNICEF, 2005), particularly in low- and middle-income countries where they are affected by poor access to resources, and by stigma and local taboos. Poverty has been shown to accentuate the impact of disability. The cycle of poverty and disability is marked by poor access to education, vocational training, and employment. The need of AWD for inclusion and participation in education, health and social life are the same as their non-disabled peers. For many AWD, these needs continue to go unmet (Groce, 2004). The research question was: ‘How do adolescents with physical disabilities perceive the factors that determine their participation and inclusion in their communities in South India? ’ Quantitative and qualitative techniques were used. Thirty-seven AWD, 25 parents of AWD, and 24 non-disabled adolescent peers participated in the study in Bangalore, India. A background information questionnaire and two measures of quality of life (QOL) were conducted with all participants. Qualitative data was gathered with each participant group using interviews and focus group discussions (FGD). Photography was used with the AWD to facilitate discussions. Analysis of QOL data revealed no differences between AWD and parent-proxy scores. Differences exist in QOL scores between AWD and their peers. Analysis of interview and FGD data revealed three key themes that influence the perception of Participation and Inclusion among AWD. These are: 1) Personal Factors; 2) Interpersonal Relationships; and 3) External Factors. Belief in themselves and parental support were two key facilitators of participation. Negative attitudes of others, physical barriers, and poorly implemented legislation were significant barriers to participation. Recommendations are suggested to enhance the participation and inclusion of AWD and to facilitate success in adulthood.
A comparative study of structured prediction methods for sequence labeling

Some machine learning tasks have a complex output, rather than a real number or a class. Those outputs are composed by elements which have interdependences and structural properties. Methods which take into account the form of the output are known as structured prediction techniques. This study focuses on those techniques, evaluating their performance for tasks of sequence labeling and comparing them. Specifically, tasks of natural language processing are used as benchmarks. The principal problem evaluated is part-of-speech tagging. Datasets of different languages (English, Spanish, Portuguese and Dutch) and environments (newspapers, twitter and chats) are used for a general analysis. Shallow parsing and named entity recognition are also examined. The algorithms treated are structured perceptron, conditional random fields, structured support vector machines and trigram hidden Markov models. They are also compared to different approaches to solve these problems. The results show that, in general, structured perceptron has the best performance for sequence labeling with the conditions evaluated. However, with few training examples, structured support vector machines can achieve a similar or superior accuracy. Moreover, the results for conditional ranom fields is near those two methods. The relative results of the algorithms are similar across different datasets, but the absolute accuracies are dependent on their specificities.
A Model-based Approach to Information Retrieval Systems Development

We propose a novel model-based approach (MDA) for the design and creation of Information Retrieval (IR) systems. This is based on a specific language that provides common notation and concepts and a collaborative modular environment for the design of IR systems. The language is a UML profile, involving several stereotypes for the IR area. From this profile we derive standard libraries of modules that can be used in the development of IR systems. Through appropriate templates, we transform models into software code according different programming language and different IR platforms.
Influence of industrial atmospheric pollution on the development of pathology of respiratory organs

Materials and methods. Industrial emissions into the air basin from enterprises of the metallurgical industry were investigated. The type of violations of ventilation functions (obstruction, restriction, obstruction on the background of restriction) was determined from the “flow – volume” curve of the forced expiration. The incidence was studied according to the statistical materials of hospitals.