Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Measuring the Obscuring Column of a Disk Megamaser AGN in a Nearby Merger

Active galactic nuclei (AGNs) hosting disk water megamasers are well known to be obscured by large amounts of gas, likely due to the presence along the line of sight of an almost edge-on disky structure orbiting the supermassive black hole. Correcting for the high obscuration is crucial to infer parameters intrinsic to the source, like its luminosity. We present a broadband X-ray spectral analysis of a water megamaser AGN in an early merger (NGC 5765B), combining Chandra and NuSTAR data. NGC 5765B is highly Compton-thick and reflection-dominated, following the general trend among disk megamasers. Combining the exquisite black hole mass from masers with our X-ray spectroscopy, the Eddington ratio of the megamaser is estimated to be in the 2%–14% range, and its robustness is confirmed through SED fitting.
Novel Maskless Bumping for 3D Integration

A novel, maskless, low‐volume bumping material, called solder bump maker, which is composed of a resin and low‐melting‐point solder powder, has been developed. The resin features no distinct chemical reactions preventing the rheological coalescence of the solder, a deoxidation of the oxide layer on the solder powder for wetting on the pad at the solder melting point, and no major weight loss caused by out‐gassing. With these characteristics, the solder was successfully wetted onto a metal pad and formed a uniform solder bump array with pitches of 120 µm and 150 µm.
Gribov problem in topological Yang-Mills theories

We study the Gribov problem in four-dimensional topological Yang-Mills theories following the Baulieu-Singer approach in the (anti-)self-dual Landau gauges. As suggested by the tree-level exactness of the model in this gauge choice, the Gribov copies are shown to be inoffensive at the quantum level. To be more precise, following Gribov, we discuss the path integral restriction to the Gribov horizon. The associated gap equation, which fixes the so-called Gribov parameter, is however shown to only possess a trivial solution, making the restriction obsolete. We relate this to the absence of radiative corrections in both gauge and ghost sectors. We give further evidence by employing the renormalization group which shows that, for this kind of topological model, the gap equation indeed forbids the introduction of a massive Gribov parameter.
Sampling and Reconstruction of Bandlimited Signals With Multi-Channel Time Encoding

Sampling is classically performed by recording the amplitude of an input signal at given time instants; however, sampling and reconstructing a signal using multiple devices in parallel becomes a more difficult problem to solve when the devices have an unknown shift in their clocks. Alternatively, one can record the times at which a signal (or its integral) crosses given thresholds. This can model integrate-and-fire neurons, for example, and has been studied by Lazar and Tóth under the name of “Time Encoding Machines”. This sampling method is closer to what is found in nature. In this paper, we show that, when using time encoding machines, reconstruction from multiple channels has a more intuitive solution, and does not require the knowledge of the shifts between machines. We show that, if single-channel time encoding can sample and perfectly reconstruct a <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\mathbf {2\Omega }$</tex-math></inline-formula>-bandlimited signal, then <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\mathbf {M}$</tex-math></inline-formula>-channel time encoding with shifted integrators can sample and perfectly reconstruct a signal with <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\mathbf {M}$</tex-math></inline-formula> times the bandwidth. Furthermore, we present an algorithm to perform this reconstruction and prove that it converges to the correct unique solution, in the noiseless case, without knowledge of the relative shifts between the integrators of the machines. This is quite unlike classical multi-channel sampling, where unknown shifts between sampling devices pose a problem for perfect reconstruction.
Dual Extrapolation for Sparse Generalized Linear Models

Generalized Linear Models (GLM) form a wide class of regression and classification models, where prediction is a function of a linear combination of the input variables. For statistical inference in high dimension, sparsity inducing regularizations have proven to be useful while offering statistical guarantees. However, solving the resulting optimization problems can be challenging: even for popular iterative algorithms such as coordinate descent, one needs to loop over a large number of variables. To mitigate this, techniques known as screening rules and working sets diminish the size of the optimization problem at hand, either by progressively removing variables, or by solving a growing sequence of smaller problems. For both techniques, significant variables are identified thanks to convex duality arguments. In this paper, we show that the dual iterates of a GLM exhibit a Vector AutoRegressive (VAR) behavior after sign identification, when the primal problem is solved with proximal gradient descent or cyclic coordinate descent. Exploiting this regularity, one can construct dual points that offer tighter certificates of optimality, enhancing the performance of screening rules and helping to design competitive working set algorithms.
On the origin of dust in galaxy clusters at low-to-intermediate redshift

Stacked analyses of galaxy clusters at low-to-intermediate redshift show signatures attributable to dust, but the origin of this dust is uncertain. We test the hypothesis that the bulk of cluster dust derives from galaxy ejecta. To do so, we employ dust abundances obtained from detailed chemical evolution models of galaxies. We integrate the dust abundances over cluster luminosity functions (one-slope and two-slope Schechter functions). We consider both a hierarchical scenario of galaxy formation and an independent evolution of the three main galactic morphologies: elliptical/S0, spiral and irregular. We separate the dust residing within galaxies from the dust ejected in the intracluster medium. To the latter, we apply thermal sputtering. The model results are compared to low-to-intermediate redshift observations of dust masses. We find that in any of the considered scenarios, elliptical/S0 galaxies contribute negligibly to the present-time intracluster dust, despite producing the majority of gas-phase metals in galaxy clusters. Spiral galaxies, instead, provide both the bulk of the spatially unresolved dust and of the dust ejected into the intracluster medium. The total dust-to-gas mass ratio in galaxy clusters amounts to 10−4, while the intracluster medium dust-to-gas mass ratio amounts to 10−6 at most. These dust abundances are consistent with the estimates of cluster observations at 0.2 < z < 1. We propose that galactic sources, spiral galaxies in particular, are the major contributors to the cluster dust budget.
Control Laser Spectrofluorimeter with Microcontrollers

For today carrying out of observational measuring and processing of the gained effects without computer technology practically is not available. The importance of using automatic devices becomes more and more obvious. In many cases, when the matter is to work out the experimental devices and methods, there is a problem connected with control of experimental devices and with carrying out automatic measurement. For a solution of this problem experimenters often use different special electric devices which connect experimental devices with computer technologies. For example, such devices are analog-digital (ADC) and digital-analog (DAC) converter systems of electrical circuits etc.
Internetworking based on cell switch router-architecture and protocol overview

This paper describes an internetworking architecture and related protocol overview based on routers that have asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) cell switching capability in addition to conventional Internet protocol (IP) packet forwarding. The proposed architecture can provide high-throughput and low-latency switched paths for individual application flows or a group of application flows while retaining current router-based internetworking architecture. The proposed router is able to establish the switched path based on the characteristics of flows, e.g., arrival of a data packet with specific upper layer protocols or arrival of more than a certain amount of data packets in a predetermined period, as well as by the reception of an IP-layer resource reservation request, such as resource reservation protocol (RSVP). One important feature that is provided by the proposed router is interoperability with the emerging ATM network platform specified by the ATM Forum and the telecommunications sector of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU-T). The proposed routers can be interconnected with each other over the point-to-point synchronous optical network link as well as over the ATM network platform, which provides permanent virtual channel, virtual path, or switched virtual channel (SVC) services. That enables network carriers to provide Internet/intranet services as well as others, such as telephony, ATM/time division multiplexing leased line, or native ATM SVC services.
Successful weaning of adult patients with respiratory failure from mechanical ventilators using an L-piece

Abstract Background There are many methods for weaning patients from mechanical ventilation. Using either a T-piece or CPAP are effective for weaning. Weaning using an L-piece is a strategy similar to using a T-piece, but uses less oxygen flow with air and has less dead space than a T-piece. Objective To determine whether adult patients with respiratory failure can be successfully weaned from a ventilator using an L-piece, including a study of factors that may affect the success or failure of weaning. Method Retrospective review of the medical records of a cohort of patients who had respiratory failure and were admitted to Wetchakarunrasm Hospital between January 1st, 2012 and September 30th, 2015. Result We found 143 cases matched the inclusion criteria. There was a 95.1% success in weaning adult patients with respiratory failure from a ventilator by using an L-piece. No vital signs before weaning and during L-piece weaning were significantly different, except for respiratory rate, which was 1.4 times/min (7.7%, P < 0.001) higher using the L-piece than before weaning. The success of weaning a group using oxygen flow at 1-3 L/min was 92.2% and a group using oxygen flow at 4-6 L/min was 96.7%. There was no significant difference in the success rate between these groups (P = 0.25). Conclusion Weaning patients from mechanical ventilators using an L-piece is safe and has a success of 95.1%. This method of weaning can save oxygen use by reducing the flow of oxygen, which may be beneficial in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Self-Biased-SMA Drive PU Microgripper with Force Sensing in Visual Servo

An innovative design of a polyurethane microgripper system with force sensor is developed for the measurement of gripping force in vision-based control. A microgripper mechanism integrated with a force sensing arm is fabricated by an excimer laser. The microgripper is actuated by a self-biased-SMA (Shape Memory Alloy) actuator. A computer-vision method through the ERES (Extended Regional Edge Statistics) algorithm is employed to track the motion of gripper. The position information of the gripping point together with the deflection of the force sensing arm is utilized for sensing force. A fuzzy expert with a PI controller in a visual servo is employed to test the performance of sensing the gripping force in grasping of 38μm diameter metal rod. In the performance test, the microgripper system provides a maximum gripping size of 40μm, a maximum force resolution of 1μN and a maximum gripping force of 58μN.
Meaning, sound and syntax in english number agreement

Abstract Number is one of a small set of basic conceptual categories with relatively clear grammatical reflections and requirements. It must be called upon during fluent language production to create agreement between subjects and verbs, and the questions addressed in this paper concern how that is done. The number information that is used may be notional (whether the referent of the subject noun phrase is single or multiple), or lexical (whether the subcategorised number of the head of the subject noun phrase is singular or plural), or even morphophonological (whether the head of the subject noun phrase has the phonological features associated with plural inflections). Different views about language processes make contrasting predictions about the likelihood of contributions from each of these sources during normal speaking. In a series of experiments employing an agreement-error elicitation task, we examined the effects of variations in notional, lexical and morphophonological features on the implementa.
A semantic based video indexing and retrieval system for maritime surveillance

Content-based video retrieval from archived image/video is a very attractive capability of modern intelligent video surveillance systems. This paper presents an innovative Semantic-Based Video Indexing and Retrieval (SBVIR) software toolkit to help users of intelligent video surveillance to easily and rapidly search the content of large video archives to conduct video-based forensic and image intelligence. Tailored for maritime environment, SBVIR is suited for surveillance applications in harbor, sea shores, or around ships. The system comprises two major modules: a video analytic module that performs automatic target detection, tracking, classification, activities recognition, and a retrieval module that performs data indexing, and information retrieval. SBVIR is capable of detecting and tracking objects from multiple cameras robustly in condition of dynamic water background and illumination changes. The system provides hierarchical target classification among a large ontology of watercraft classes, and is capable of recognizing a variety of boat activities. Video retrieval is achieved with both query-by-keyword and query-by-example. Users can query video content using semantic concepts selected from a large dictionary of objects and activities, display the history linked to a given target/activity, and search for anomalies. The user can interact with the system and provide feedbacks to tune the system for improved accuracy and relevance of retrieved data. SBVIR has been tested for real maritime surveillance scenarios and shown to be able to generate highly-semantic metadata tags that can be used during the retrieval to provide user with relevant and accurate data in real-time.
Cochlear Implantation in Pontine Tegmental Cap Dysplasia

Pontine tegmental cap dysplasia (PTCD) is a rare disease associated with hearing loss. We present a case of a child with PTCD and Perventricular nodular heterotopia (PNH). PTCD is a brainstem, cerebellar and cranial nerve malformation syndrome characterized by several clinical manifestations. PNH is a condition in which neurons do not migrate properly in the first stage of brain development. Diagnosis of both pathologies is based on the characteristic neuro-image findings. The child was evaluated, in our department, for congenital profound hearing loss, several signs and symptoms emerged during the diagnostic analysis. The clinical data and Neuro-image tests evidenced a diagnosis of PTCD and PHN. Cochlear Implant (CI) therapy for hearing loss in this case is discussed.
Active-feedback frequency compensation for low-power multi-stage amplifiers

This paper describes a novel active-feedback frequency compensation (AFFC) technique for low-power multi-stage amplifiers. With a high-speed active feedback block, the proposed compensation technique significantly improves both the frequency and the transient responses of the amplifier. Implemented by a standard 0.8/spl mu/m CMOS process, a three-stage AFFC amplifier achieves 100dB gain, 4.5MHz gain-bandwidth product, 65/spl deg/ phase margin and 1.5V//spl mu/s slew rate with 0.4mW power consumption when driving a 100pF capacitive load.
Randomized algorithms for stability and robustness analysis of high speed communication networks

This paper initiates a study toward developing and applying randomized algorithms for stability of high speed communication networks. We consider the discrete-time version of the nonlinear model introduced in which uses as feedback variations in queueing delay information from bottleneck nodes of the network. We then linearize this nonlinear model around its unique equilibrium point at a single bottleneck node, and perform a robustness analysis for a special, symmetric case, where certain utility and pricing parameters are the same across all active users. In this case, we derive closed-form necessary and sufficient conditions for stability and robustness under parameter variations. In addition, the ranges of values for the utility and pricing parameters for which stability is guaranteed are computed exactly. These results also admit counterparts for the case when the pricing parameters vary across users, but the utility parameter values are still the same. In the general non-symmetric case, when closed-form derivation is not possible, we construct specific randomized algorithms which provide a probabilistic estimate of the local stability of the network. In particular, we use Monte Carlo as well as Quasi-Monte Carlo techniques for the linearized model. The results obtained provide a complete analysis of congestion control algorithms for internet style networks with a single bottleneck node as well as for networks with general random topologies.
DOI-PET image reconstruction with accurate system model reducing redundancy of imaging system

A high-performance PET scanner, which measures depth-of-interaction (DOI) information, is in progress at the National Institute of Radiological Sciences in Japan. Image reconstruction methods with accurate modeling of the system response functions have been successfully used to improve PET image quality. It is, however, difficult to apply these methods to the DOI-PET system because the dimension of DOI-PET data increases in proportion to the square of the number of DOI layers. In this paper, we propose a compressed imaging system model for DOI-PET image reconstruction, in order to reduce computational cost with keeping image quality. The basic idea of the proposed method is that the DOI-PET system is highly redundant. First, DOI-PET data are transformed into compact data so that data bins of which sensitivity functions highly correlate are combined. Then image reconstruction methods based on accurate system modeling, such as the maximum likelihood expectation maximization (NIL-EM), are applied. The proposed method was applied to simulated data for the DOI-PET operated in 2D mode. Then the trade-off between the background noise and the spatial resolution was investigated. Numerical simulation results show that the proposed method followed by ML-EM reduces computational cost effectively with keeping the advantages of the accurate system modeling and DOI information.
Neural networks with digital LUT activation functions

It is well known that the behaviour of a neural network built with classical summing neurons, as in a multilayer perceptron, widely depends on the activation functions of the involved neurons. Many authors have proposed the use of activation functions with some free parameters which should allow one to reduce the size of the network, trading connection complexity with activation function complexity. Since many implementations of neural network are based on digital hardware, performing the selected activation function through a lookup-table (LUT), it could be interesting to study neural networks whose neurons have adaptable LUT-based activation functions. In this way, after learning, the neurons will present arbitrary activation functions which can also be efficiently implemented with digital technologies. In this paper a preliminary study of the adaptive LUT-based neuron (L-neuron) is presented, together with some experimental results on canonical problems.
EXPERIMENTS IN PROBABILISTIC CONTEXT FREE GRAMMAR FOR URDU LANGUAGE

In this paper we describe the expansion of probabilistic context free grammar for Urdu language, we did some experiments in probabilistic context free grammar for Urdu language, extraction of CFG rules through The Penn Treebank, evaluation of PCFG from CFG. This PCFG is further useful for parsing the Urdu Sentences. The Tree-bank based grammar is the best technique for building up the PCFG for language through some easy and understandable steps as compared to theoretical. A PCFG can be used to estimate a number of useful probabilities concerning a sentence and its parse-tree(s). The resulting Penn Treebank based PCFG is widely used in natural language processing, speech recognition, and integrated spoken language systems as well as in theoretical linguistics.
UCI Embedder: A Real-time Broadcast-Content-Identifier Watermarking System for Broadcast Content Distribution Services

We introduce the standard content identifier Universal Content Identifier (UCI) and a watermarking system that embeds UCI for the broadcast content distribution services. Our proposed UCI embedder is designed in consideration of integrating with the previously established broadcast system and protecting the illegal distribution of broadcast contents. Our goal is that when broadcast content is transmitted, 28 byte UCI is embedded imperceptibly in the content itself in real-time and the embedded UCI is successfully extracted not only in the typical format used in the broadcast content distribution service but also in the illegally distributed broadcast contents. Usually the illegally distributed contents are modified from the original by changing resolutions, frame rates, or adjusting colors. In this paper, we present a watermarking scheme that embeds 28 byte UCI in broadcast content in real-time while keeping the visual quality high and the embedded watermark robust enough to survive through the various modification. The experimental results show that the embedded UCI remains in the various modified versions of content and that the visual degradation by embedding is not noticeable.
A Case of Gartner’s Cyst of the Vagina

fluctuant, non tender, mobile, cystic-like and protruding from the right anterolateral vaginal wall (Figure 1). The rest of the genitourinary and abdominal systems were without notable abnormalities and pathology. Her laboratory routine investigations were within normal limits and urinalysis and pregnancy tests were negative. Ultrasound showed a large anechoic fluid filled cyst of 6x7 cm distinct from the uterus. Sagittal transvaginal scanning (Figure 2) showed up a welldefined cystic mass on the right anterolateral aspect of the upper vaginal vault adjacent to, yet clearly separate from, the cervical tissue. Transverse transvaginal scanning confirmed these findings and delineated the cyst lateral to the uterine cervix on the right side (Figure 3). At this stage, a provisional diagnosis of a Gartner duct cyst was considered. Both maternal kidneys appeared normal. Introduction
On the evaluation of wavelet filter banks for wavelet-based image watermarking

The digital watermark technology is now drawing attention as a useful method of protecting copyrights of digital contents such as audio, image, and video. Especially, efficient image watermarking methods have been developed in the DWT (discrete wavelet transform) domain. In the wavelet-based watermarking, similar to the wavelet-based coding, the choice of wavelet filter banks generally affects the performance of watermarking methods. Hence a natural question arises for the wavelet-based watermarking: what is the best wavelet filter bank for use? In this paper, we evaluate wavelet filter banks used in watermarking theoretically from the viewpoint of the quality of watermarked image and the robustness of watermark, and then try to answer the 'best wavelet filter bank' problem for the wavelet-based watermarking.