Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Development of a mobility assist for the paralyzed, amputee, and spastic patient

An exoskeleton system is being developed to aid in the mobilization of walking-impaired patients. New approaches to personal robotic assists have solved many classic problems with weight, power, endurance, and cost. A versatile platform of development allows for many variations and applications including mobility assist for the paralyzed, amputee, and spastic patient (MAPAS). A variety of strap on supports and braces are used, depending on the magnitude of the forces required. The MAPAS system utilizes compressed gas to power the main force producing elements, or muscles. Pneumatic muscles are used to provide controllable joint torque with moderate levels of pressure. These muscles are mounted to the brace, providing pull-only torque to joints. The MAPAS control system features interpreted joint mapping. The function of each leg joint is primarily directed through the output of a finger joint sensor. A six to eight sensor hand goniometer provides the system with user input. Higher control features actuated by on-board intelligent devices enable finger joint inputs to be enhanced providing balance, gait anticipation, fault-recovery, and spasm signature compensation. Ambient pressure levels of on-board reservoirs can be changed to suit changing environments ranging from heavily loaded amputee walking up stairs to the slight correction of a mild spasm. The entire system is portable with on-board batteries, compressed air reservoirs, intelligent algorithms, and goniometric sensors.
Sleep quality in patients with asthma and COPD

Background: Nocturnal symptoms are common and important in both asthma and COPD but the relationship between sleep quality and diseases9 characteristics has not been fully studied. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 217 asthma and COPD patients who underwent pulmonary function tests at the Center for Pathophysiology of Breathing and Sleep Medicine of the Institute for Pulmonary Diseases of Vojvodina, Sremska Kamenica, Serbia between July 2014 and January 2015. All patients completed Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Results: The study included 117 (53.9%) patients with asthma and 100 (46.1%) patients with COPD. There were 109 (50.2 %) men, median age 56 years (IQR 35-64). There was no difference in PSQI (4.9±3.9 vs. 5.8±4.3, p=0.09) and ESS (4.8±3.4 vs. 4.7±3.6, p=0.69) between patients with asthma and COPD. There was a moderate correlation between PSQI and CAT score (r=0.51, p Conclusions: There is no difference in sleep quality between patients with asthma and COPD. PSQI correlates moderately with CAT score. Poor sleep quality is related to the level of asthma control and is associated with COPD groups B and D.
Adequação de Processos para Fábricas de Software

Each day the research concerning Software Factories has increased, especially due to recent term growth in the world-wide scene. Indian Factories had become quality and success reference, making that countries like Brazil came to pursue a similar model and to search results so positive how much. However, to reach this standard, it must be clear that factors as processes, quality standards and manufacture solutions frameworks intervene directly with the final result. From this point of view, this paper presents a mapping of the software development process into the different boarding of Software Factories. Resumo. A cada dia as pesquisas acerca de Fabricas de Software vem se intensificando, especialmente devido ao crescimento desta atividade no cenario mundial. Fabricas da India se tornaram referencia de qualidade e sucesso, fazendo com que paises como o Brasil viessem a perseguir um modelo semelhante e buscar resultados tao positivos quanto. Porem, para atingir este padrao, devemos estar cientes que fatores como processos, padroes de qualidade e frameworks de solucoes fabris interferem diretamente no resultado final. Neste contexto, este artigo apresenta um mapeamento dos tipos de processo de desenvolvimento as diferentes abordagens de Fabricas de Software.
Hypercomputation: Computing Beyond the Church-Turing Barrier

This book provides a thorough description of hypercomputation. It covers all attempts at devising conceptual hypermachines and all new promising computational paradigms that may eventually lead to the construction of a hypermachine. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of what computability is, and why the Church-Turing thesis poses an arbitrary limit to what can be actually computed. Hypercomputing is a relatively novel idea. However, the books most important features are its description of the various attempts of hypercomputation, from trial-and-error machines to the exploration of the human mind, if we treat it as a computing device.
THE FACTORS AFFECTING NOMINAL EXCHANGE RATE FOR DEVELOPING COUNTRIES: A PANEL DATA ANALYSIS

This study examines the factors determining nominal exchange rate in 77 developing countries for the period of 2004-2016. Panel data regression model is constructed in the econometric estimations. According to empirical results, anti-inflationary policies are necessary to achieve lower nominal exchange rates in developing countries. Economic growth stemming from higher capital formation contributes to lower nominal exchange rates as well as implementing economic policies towards increasing international reserves
Comparison of ultrasound and fine needle aspiration biopsy in terms of determining of preoperative malignancy in thyroid nodules

To reveal the diagnostic efficacy and accuracy, compared with postoperative histopathological diagnosis, preoperative ultrasonography (US) and fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) in determining benign and malignant disease in patients undergoing thyroidectomy in our clinic. Materials and methods: The research was designed with records of 95 patients who were examined thyroidectomy at our hospital Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic for five years. Preoperative ultrasound findings, FNAB results, postoperative histopathological findings, blood groups, age and sex were recorded. These data were each compared with the histopathological results in order to determine which technique was superior in distinguishing malignant from benign thyroid nodules. Ninety-five patients, aged between 21 and 76, 27 male and 68 female, were included. Mean age of male patients was 51.11±13.54 and mean age of female patients 49.18±11.92. Total thyroidectomy was performed in 82 (86.3%) cases, left lobectomy in 3 (3.2%), right lobectomy in 4 (4.2%) and total thyroidectomy plus neck dissection in 6 (6.3%). Of the cases thought to be benign at US, 76.4% were actually benign, and 83.33% of the cases thought to be malignant were actually malignant. The level of cases incorrectly identified as benign or malignant was 23.16%. Validity (test power) of US on the basis of postoperative diagnosis was 76.84%. In terms of FNAB findings, 27.78% of cases suspected of being malignant were malignant, and 72.73% of the group assessed as having benign cytology was actually benign. The level of cases incorrectly identified as being malignant or benign was 35.79%. FNAB test reliability (test power) on the basis of postoperative diagnosis was 56.1%. In addition, only US findings were significant when compared with histopathological findings in preoperative determination of malignant or benign disease (p=0.001), all other data being not significant (p˃0.05). The use of US findings in differentiating malignant from benign thyroid nodules and in accordingly planning treatment is more effective than use of FNAB.
TLS-based Interference Alignment Algorithm for Symmetric MIMO Interference Network with CSI Errors

The channel state information (CSI) errors undermine the performance of interference\ this paper, we model the CSI errors at terminals and propose an IA algorithm based on total least squares (TLS) algorithm for the symmetric MIMO interference system under the assumption of CSI errors. According to the TLS algorithm, the proposed IA algorithm optimizes transmit precoding matrices and minimizes the distortion caused by the imperfect CSI. Numerical results show that the proposed IA algorithm is robust in the symmetric MIMO interference network with CSI errors and has better sum-rate performance than the maximum signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (Max SINR) and traditional distributed iterative IA algorithms.
Anastatica sensibile: a case study about natural processes as medium for interactivity

Interactive artistic installations, especially the ones exploiting digital technologies, represent an active area of research both from the artistic and technological sides. These works are able to detect different properties of people in the environment (e.g., motion, localization, gestures) and determine their behavior accordingly, for example modifying sounds and lights. Manifold installations have been realized exploiting audio-visual elements as key media for interactivity. This paper presents a case study of a non-conventional interactive installation (“Anastatica Sensibile”), which has been conceived around a natural process. In this installation people determine the life cycle of specific plants, in terms of an opening/closing process. The contribution of the paper is stimulating reflections about how the plants natural life cycle can become the fundamental element of an interactive artistic installation.
Analyzing EEG Signals with Machine Learning for Diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease

In order to have the greatest treatment impact the early and accurate diagnose of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is essential. In this paper we present a method for analyzing EEG signals with machine learning approach in order to diagnose AD. We show how to extract features out of EEG recordings to be used with a machine learning algorithm for the induction of AD classification model. The obtained results are very promising. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.5755/j01.eee. 18.8. 2627
Topology Verification for Isosurface Extraction Topology Verification for Isosurface Extraction

The importance of properly implemented isosurface extraction for verifiable visualization led to a previously published paper on the general Method of Manufactured Solutions (MMS), inclusive of a supportive software infrastructure. This work builds upon that foundation, while significantly extending it. Specifically, we extend previous work on verification of geometrical properties to ensuring correctness of considerably more subtle topological characteristics that are crucial for the extracted surfaces. We first show a new theoretical synthesis of results from stratified Morse theory and digital topology for algorithms created to verify topological invariants and then we demonstrate how the MMS approach can be extended to embrace topology, consistent with the design intent for MMS. The transition to topological verification motivated these considerable theoretical advances and algorithmic development, consistent with general MMS principles. The methodology reported reveals unexpected behavior and even coding mistakes in publicly available popular isosurface codes, as presented in a case study for visualization tools that documents the extensibility of MMS to topological criteria. Abstract—The importance of properly implemented isosurface extraction for verifiable visualization led to a previously published paper on the general " Method of Manufactured Solutions " (MMS), inclusive of a supportive software infrastructure. This work builds upon that foundation, while significantly extending it. Specifically, we extend previous work on verification of geometrical properties to ensuring correctness of considerably more subtle topological characteristics that are crucial for the extracted surfaces. We first show a new theoretical synthesis of results from stratified Morse theory and digital topology for algorithms created to verify topological invariants and then we demonstrate how the MMS approach can be extended to embrace topology, consistent with the design intent for MMS. The transition to topological verification motivated these considerable theoretical advances and algorithmic development, consistent with general MMS principles. The methodology reported reveals unexpected behavior and even coding mistakes in publicly available popular isosurface codes, as presented in a case study for visualization tools that documents the extensibility of MMS to topological criteria.
Digitaler Realismus. Zwischen Computeranimation und Live-Action. Die neue Bildästhetik in Spielfilmen

Medienwissenschaft Neue Medien Realismus Spezialeffekte Abstract Digitale Doppelgänger und animierte Hollywoodstars, Fahrten durch Nervenbahnen und Hautporen, unmögliche Kameraperspektiven und Bildräume, die sich unendlich fortsetzen in aktuellen Spiel lmen sind ge lmte Bildanteile und Computeranimationen oft ununterscheidbar miteinander verschmolzen. Eine neue Kategorie von »hybriden Bewegungsbildern« ist entstanden, die eine Bildästhetik jenseits des Effekt-Kinos hervorgebracht hat. Ihre Inszenierungsstrategien unterwandern unsere Vorstellung realistischer Darstellungen – sie beein ussen unsere Wahrnehmung nachhaltig und prägen unsere Sicht auf die Welt mit. Das Buch verbindet die Darstellung der technischen Voraussetzungen dieser neuen Bildwelten mit einer eingehenden Untersuchung ihrer ästhetischen Implikationen. Es schließt damit eine Lücke in der wissenschaftlichen Auseinandersetzung mit der Digitalisierung der Bildproduktion.
Study of In-Patient Cost Analysis using Hospital Database in Korea

This study is to figure out Influence factors on Admission costs, based on In-Patient Cost Analysis. The study reviewed German Cost Analysis Method, drew Cost analysis Method applicable to Korean hospitals, and then conducted Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Multiple Regression, to analyze what factors influenced Admission Costs. The empirical analysis has shown that the cost recovery level was influenced by ‘Hospital visit days’, ‘Examination costs’ and ‘Physician costs’ Especially the cost recovery level had a positive relationship with Examination cost rate and a negative relationship with Physician cost rate, which directly affected surgical units and medical units thus caused the imbalance of Cost recovery level between both units. In other words, surgical units cost recovery level was low, however medical units was relatively high. Therefore the improvement of Cost recovery system, based on the exact cost information is needed to solve the imbalance of cost recovery level.
Copyright Clearance Center

Abstract The digital revolution has been a boon to those who seek convenient, expanded access to information. It has dramatically increased the opportunity to share ideas and discoveries and disseminate information to ever-broader audiences. At the same time, it has raised concerns on the part of those responsible for ensuring that access to content remains within the guidelines established by copyright law. The challenge is to tap the unprecedented potential of digital technology while respecting the rights of those who create original works. Some of the most effective solutions capitalize on the very technology and attributes that gave rise to the digital marketplace. By automating the copyright permissions process, they seek to make copyright compliance as convenient as accessing information-and increasingly, they are succeeding. Current permissions services are available both at the point of content and as an integrated component of existing information management software. In many cases, they provide one-stop shopping for content and permissions, and a convenient way to comply with copyright law.
A fixed network design for site diversity enhanced wireless access

The virtual cellular network (VCN) is a network infrastructure that enables wireless connectivity by making use of site diversity. In site diversity a multitude of base stations simultaneously connect a mobile user to the fixed network. Base stations act as junctions between the wired and the wireless part of the mobile's connection path. They are interconnected through a wired, cell switched network. This network is decomposed into regions of access networks. A backbone network assumed to interconnect these regions. It is necessary to adapt the topology of the access network to the characteristics of the VCN traffic, which differs significantly from traditional traffic patterns. The paper specifies the wired network in terms of layout, scale and link topology via analysis based on effective bandwidth requirement. A simulation model is used to obtain qualitative insight into the operation of the designed network.
Top Management Team Diversity and Organizational Performance: The Mediating Effect of Strategic Change

Organization ability to anticipate and respond to the existing opportunities while observing the need for change is a vital ingredient in sustaining competitiveness and viability. The contemporary organization is faced with shifting competitive and dynamic operating environment requiring regular shifts in strategy by TMT in order to enhance performance. Despite wide interest from scholars, the association between TMT diversity and strategic change and how this influence performance is unclear. This study sought to examine the influence of TMT diversity on performance of Public Benefit Organizations (PBOs) in Kenya and the intervening effect of strategic change. The study relied on the resource based view and upper echelons theories to offer the foundations of the assessment. A cross sectional research design within a positivistic framework was adopted for the study. A sample of 138 respondents was acquired from National and International PBOs. Quantitative and qualitative data collected was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. It was found that TMT Diversity statistically significantly explains 10.4% of the variability in PBO Performance. Further findings were that TMT diversity only explains 2.8% of the variability in Strategic Change (an effect confirmed to lack statistical significance); but when strategic change and TMT diversity were considered in a joint effect, the model was found to explain 11.5% of the variability in PBO Performance. However, the lack of statistical significance in the relationship between strategic change and TMT diversity disproved the mediating role of strategic change in the TMT Diversity and PBO performance relationship. The study therefore concludes that TMT diversity has an influence on PBO performance, though strategic change has no mediating effect in this relationship. The study recommends that the stakeholders in the sector should enhance TMT diversity in their organizations while carefully balancing the role of TMT in driving strategic change. Further studies targeting TMT diversity and strategic change in varying environments and contexts should be undertaken. The study contributes to the upper echelons theory in clarifying the impact of strategic change in TMT diversity and organization performance relationship. It further contributes to the advancement of PBO management policies and practices raising the need to consider instances where TMT diversity can drive or stifle strategic change efforts.
Antonym-Synonym Classification Based on New Sub-space Embeddings

Distinguishing antonyms from synonyms is a key challenge for many NLP applications focused on the lexical-semantic relation extraction. Existing solutions relying on large-scale corpora yield low performance because of huge contextual overlap of antonym and synonym pairs. We propose a novel approach entirely based on pre-trained embeddings. We hypothesize that the pre-trained embeddings comprehend a blend of lexical-semantic information and we may distill the task-specific information using Distiller, a model proposed in this paper. Later, a classifier is trained based on features constructed from the distilled sub-spaces along with some word level features to distinguish antonyms from synonyms. Experimental results show that the proposed model outperforms existing research on antonym synonym distinction in both speed and performance.
DOT: distributed OpenFlow testbed

With the growing adoption of Software Defined Networking (SDN) technology, there is a compelling need for an SDN emulator that can facilitate experimenting with new SDN solutions. Unfortunately, Mininet, the de facto standard emulator for software defined networks, fails to scale with network size and traffic volume. To address these limitations, we developed Distributed OpenFlow Testbed (DOT), a highly scalable emulator for SDN. It can emulate large SDN deployments by distributing the workload over a cluster of compute nodes. Moreover, DOT can emulate a wider range of network services compared to other publicly available SDN emulators and simulators. Our demonstration will illustrate several features of DOT including: (i) how easy it is to setup the emulator, (ii) how to deploy a topology using a single configuration file, (iii) how to run a connectivity test to ensure that the emulated network is properly deployed, and (iv) how to control and monitor the emulated components from a centralized location. We will also showcase DOT by emulating two applications: (i) policy based traffic steering through middleboxes and (ii) traffic monitoring.
Investigation of bond dilution effects on the magnetic properties of a cylindrical Ising nanowire

A cylindrical magnetic nanowire system composed of ferromagnetic core and shell layers has been investigated by using effective field theory (EFT) with correlations. Both ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic exchange couplings at the core–shell interface have been considered. Main attention has been focused on the effects of the quenched disordered shell bonds, as well as interface bonds on the magnetic properties of the system. A complete picture of the phase diagrams and magnetization profiles has been represented. It has been shown that for the antiferromagnetic nanowire system, the magnetization curves can be classified according to Néel theory of ferrimagnetism and it has been found that under certain conditions, the magnetization profiles may exhibit Q‐type, P‐type, N‐type, and L‐type behaviors. The observed L‐type behavior has not been reported in the literature before for the equilibrium properties of nanoscaled magnets. As another interesting feature of the system, it has been found that a compensation point can be induced by a bond dilution process in the surface.
Mobile phones, gender, and female empowerment in sub-Saharan Africa: studies with African youth

ABSTRACT Data from qualitative and survey research with young people in 24 locations (urban and rural) across Ghana, Malawi, and South Africa expose the complex interplay between phone ownership and usage, female empowerment, and chronic poverty in Africa. We consider gendered patterns of phone ownership and use before examining practices of use in educational settings, in business and in romantic and sexual relationships. While some reshaping of everyday routines is evident, in the specific context of female empowerment we find little support within our sites for the concept of the mobile phone as an instrument of positive transformative change. The phone's application in romantic and sexual relationships demonstrates particularly strongly the way phones are complicit in constraining women's empowerment and points to potential wider repercussions, including for educational and entrepreneurship trajectories. Women's agency is still mired within wider structures of patriarchy and chronic poverty: existing inequalities are being re-inscribed and reinforced.