Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Performance of Block Codes Using the Eigenstructure of the Code Correlation Matrixand Soft-Decision Decoding of BPSK

(cid:3) Abstract — A method is presented for obtaining the error probability for block codes. The method is based on the eigenvalue-eigenvector properties of the code correlation matrix. It is found that under a unary transformation and for an additive white Gaussian noise environment, the performance evaluation of a block code becomes a one-dimensional problem in which only one eigenvalue and its corresponding eigenvector are needed in the computation. The obtained error rate results show remarkable agreement between simulations and analysis.
Analyzing Human Factors for an Effective Information Security Management System

Managing security is essential for organizations doing business in a globally networked environment and for organizations that are at the same time seeking to achieve their missions and goals. However, numerous technical advancements do not always produce a more secure environment. All kinds of human factors can deeply affect the management of security in an organizational context. Therefore, security is not solely a technical problem; rather, the authors need to understand human factors, which need adequate attention to achieve an effective information security management system practice. This paper identifies direct and indirect human factors that have impact on information security. These factors were analyzed through the study of two security incidents of the UK’s financial organizations using the SWOT (Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) technique. The study’s results show that human factors are the main causes for these security incidents. Factors such as training, awareness, and security culture influence organizational strength and opportunity relating to information security. People’s irrational behavior and errors are the main weaknesses highlighted in security incidents, which pose threats such as poor reputation and high costs. Reza Alavi University of East London, UK Shareeful Islam University of East London, UK Hamid Jahankhani University of East London, UK Ameer Al-Nemrat University of East London, UK
Web site assessment in the airline industry: An empirical study of GCC airline companies

Due to the internet and E-commerce booming, many airline companies are attempting to stimulate customers to shift from traditional distribution channels to online channels. Therefore, Web site quality is now considered a critical factor in attracting customers' attention and build loyalty. This paper proposes an Airline Website Assessment Index (AWAI)-an index that assesses the website's in four distinct areas transactional content, informational content, website design, and passenger enjoyment support. The AWAI scoring mechanism is explained and the index was applied on the top seven airline companies in the Arabian Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries. Finally, conclusions and implications derived from this study are presented. This paper would be of a great help when Airlines' websites need to be evaluated or ranked.
Linear CCD Based Optical Tracking Using Stereo Correspondence Algorithm

Optical Tracking is an important part in the computer aided surgery system. Previously, the tracking of interaction devices with multiple retro-reflective markers can only be performed by two-dimensional (2D) image sensors, however with an inferior positioning accuracy compared to the tracking system based on onedimensional (1D) image sensor. In this paper, we study the system based on 1D sensor from the point of view of computer vision, and present our novel algorithm that solves the correspondence problem in the simultaneous positioning of multiple markers with this system. Experiments are designed to implement this algorithm to track an interaction device with four infra-red markers lighting at the same time. Results show that this algorithm can effectively identify the correspondence of multiple markers, thus break through the limitation that 1D image sensors can only position one marker at a time.
Soil Organic Carbon Redistribution by Water Erosion – The Role of CO2 Emissions for the Carbon Budget

A better process understanding of how water erosion influences the redistribution of soil organic carbon (SOC) is sorely needed to unravel the role of soil erosion for the carbon (C) budget from local to global scales. The main objective of this study was to determine SOC redistribution and the complete C budget of a loess soil affected by water erosion. We measured fluxes of SOC, dissolved organic C (DOC) and CO2 in a pseudo-replicated rainfall-simulation experiment. We characterized different C fractions in soils and redistributed sediments using density fractionation and determined C enrichment ratios (CER) in the transported sediments. Erosion, transport and subsequent deposition resulted in significantly higher CER of the sediments exported ranging between 1.3 and 4.0. In the exported sediments, C contents (mg per g soil) of particulate organic C (POC, C not bound to soil minerals) and mineral-associated organic C (MOC) were both significantly higher than those of non-eroded soils indicating that water erosion resulted in losses of C-enriched material both in forms of POC and MOC. The averaged SOC fluxes as particles (4.7 g C m−2 yr−1) were 18 times larger than DOC fluxes. Cumulative emission of soil CO2 slightly decreased at the erosion zone while increased by 56% and 27% at the transport and depositional zone, respectively, in comparison to non-eroded soil. Overall, CO2 emission is the predominant form of C loss contributing to about 90.5% of total erosion-induced C losses in our 4-month experiment, which were equal to 18 g C m−2. Nevertheless, only 1.5% of the total redistributed C was mineralized to CO2 indicating a large stabilization after deposition. Our study also underlines the importance of C losses by particles and as DOC for understanding the effects of water erosion on the C balance at the interface of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
Infection rates with Leishmania donovani and Mycobacterium tuberculosis in a village in eastern Sudan

Background Leishmania‐tuberculosis co‐infection is not uncommon in clinical practice in East Africa, but little is known about the epidemiology of this problem at population level. A cross‐sectional household survey was carried out in an active visceral leishmaniasis (VL) focus in Eastern Sudan in February 2002.
Improving follow-up with low-income families in Norway. What is new and what is already regular social work practice?

ABSTRACT Policymakers emphasise knowledge-based practices and evaluate their effectiveness. The Norwegian Directorate of Labour and Welfare has developed a model for Comprehensive follow-up of Low-income Families (the so-called HOLF model). The model includes several elements common in social work, such as relational and empowering practices, in addition to the implementation of intervention-specific tools and principles. Because most of the family coordinators are professional social workers, we measure pre-implementation practices related to intervention elements relevant to the HOLF model (i.e. relational skills, empowerment, comprehensive follow-up processes, goal-focused meetings, and the coordination of services). The data stem from a baseline survey conducted among 58 family coordinators in 29 Labour and Welfare offices in a cluster-randomised trial. The results demonstrate that family coordinators had high levels of relational skills prior to the intervention, were goal-focused in their meetings and emphasised empowerment, whereas comprehensive follow-up processes and the coordination of services were less apparent. Hence, this study shows the importance of measuring various social work competences prior to programme implementation, as some practices the intervention aims at improving might already be more or less prevalent.
Ocean acidification causes bleaching and productivity loss in coral reef builders

Ocean acidification represents a key threat to coral reefs by reducing the calcification rate of framework builders. In addition, acidification is likely to affect the relationship between corals and their symbiotic dinoflagellates and the productivity of this association. However, little is known about how acidification impacts on the physiology of reef builders and how acidification interacts with warming. Here, we report on an 8-week study that compared bleaching, productivity, and calcification responses of crustose coralline algae (CCA) and branching (Acropora) and massive (Porites) coral species in response to acidification and warming. Using a 30-tank experimental system, we manipulated CO2 levels to simulate doubling and three- to fourfold increases [Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) projection categories IV and VI] relative to present-day levels under cool and warm scenarios. Results indicated that high CO2 is a bleaching agent for corals and CCA under high irradiance, acting synergistically with warming to lower thermal bleaching thresholds. We propose that CO2 induces bleaching via its impact on photoprotective mechanisms of the photosystems. Overall, acidification impacted more strongly on bleaching and productivity than on calcification. Interestingly, the intermediate, warm CO2 scenario led to a 30% increase in productivity in Acropora, whereas high CO2 lead to zero productivity in both corals. CCA were most sensitive to acidification, with high CO2 leading to negative productivity and high rates of net dissolution. Our findings suggest that sensitive reef-building species such as CCA may be pushed beyond their thresholds for growth and survival within the next few decades whereas corals will show delayed and mixed responses.
Brood Size and Sex Ratio Regulation in the Parasitic Wasp Nasonia Vitripennis (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae)

The parasitic wasp Nasonia vitripennis varies its brood size and sex ratio dependent upon whether it is the first or second wasp to parasitize a fleshly (Sarcophaga bullata) pupa. Some of the proximate causes of this variability were investigated. In particular, research was conducted to investigate (1) effect of time between parasitization upon the probability of superparasitism, brood size and sex ratio of the superparasite, (2) whether the sex and number of larvae in host affects the oviposition behavior of the superparasite and (3) whether there is a temporal sequence in laying sons versus daughters during parasitization. It was found that the probability of superparasitism decreased, average brood size of the superparasite decreased, and proportion of sons increased with increasing time since the previous parasitization. A closer examination revealed that with a 3-24 hour delay between attacks, there is no significant relationship between brood size and sex ratio of the suprparasite or between brood size and sex ratio of the superparasite or between brood size of the first wasp and brood size of the superparasite. However, by a 48 hour delay, there was a significant negative relationship between brood size and proportion sons of the superparasite. In addition, a significant negative relationship between the brood size of the first and second wasp developed at a 48 hour delay, suggesting that the superparasite is able to detect large differences in first wasp brood size. The presence of feeding larvae in a host, at a 48 hour delay, significantly decreases the probability of superparasitism, but does not reduce the brood size of those wasps which do superparasitize. In N. vitripennis, a first wasp to parasitize a host does not lay sons first in the oviposition sequence. This contrasts to the pattern observed in certain other species. Data on the superparasite are less clear, but suggest that sons may be laid early in the bout. Based on the data, it is hypothesized that N. vitripennis has two sex ratio patterns. In the "primary parasite pattern" a strongly daughter biased sex ratio is produced and sex ratio is independent of brood size. In the "superparasite pattern" sex ratio is strongly influenced by brood size. Typically 100% sons are produced when few eggs are laid, but the proportion of daughters increases with increasing number of eggs laid into the host. Results are discussed in relation to ecological theory and in particular to models of sex allocation under superparasitism in parasitic wasps.
REPUTATION, INC.: THE INDUSTRIALIZATION OF DIGITAL SELF PRESENTATION AND ONLINE PRIVACY

In the context of a new information environment that lacks both appropriate regulation and shared social norms, a collection of for profit companies has emerged over the past two decades to help support and define personal privacy for the digital age. In the larger project from which this paper draws, I trace the complex and evolving approaches these actors have towards notions of identity construction, authentic self-presentation, visibility, and value creation in an online environment. In this paper, I focus specifically on the role this industry has played in reflecting and shaping the norms that guide contemporary approaches to digital self-presentation. I observe how industrial practices have mobilized and destabilized collectively understood terms, redefining them in ways that reflect the changing economic, social, and political realities of an evolving digital environment. In particular, I examine how this industry has positioned the terms “autonomy” and “authenticity,” defining and redefining them at key moments over the past two decades.
Short-term prediction of Shanghai composite index based on SVM

Technical indicators are very important tools in the analysis of securities investment. Closing prices and volume of business are basic index, and they compose many complex technical index. In this paper, we represent the daily closing prices and daily volume of business as input vector, and construct 9 projects according different input vector. After 9 contrast experiments with support vector machines, we find that daily closing prices and daily volume of business have 3 days of time validity in predicting future stock price.
Les violences à éducatives dans le contexte culturel de la Guadeloupe : quels axes de prévention en centre médico-psychologique : analyse qualitative du discours de parents d'enfants suivis en centre médico-psychologique

INTRODUCTION : L’utilisation de methodes educatives violentes est une problematique frequemment rencontree lors de suivis en centre medico-psychologique. En ce qui concerne le departement de la Guadeloupe, il n’existe pas de donnees disponibles sur les arguments employes par les parents pour justifier de telles methodes. Cette etude avait pour objectif d’approfondir les connaissances dans ce domaine afin d’ameliorer ainsi les outils de prevention et d’accompagnement des familles. METHODE : Il s’agissait d’une analyse qualitative du discours de parents d’enfant suivis dans deux CMP de la Guadeloupe pour des troubles non specifiques. Le discours des parents etait analyse selon la methode par theorie ancree. RESULTATS : Il s’agissait de « faire comprendre » a l’enfant le sens des attentes parentales par le biais de methodes incisives et douloureuses comme les gifles ou la ceinture. Les parents qui remettaient en question ces methodes avaient tendance a mettre en place davantage d’alternatives comme la punition ou le dialogue. Concernant les specificites liees au contexte culturel de la Guadeloupe, le discours des parents temoignait d’une approbation sociale importante avec un niveau de tolerance elevee a l’utilisation de ces methodes dans les lieux publiques. CONCLUSION : La relation entre eduquant et eduque faisait etat d’un rapport de force pregnant et d’une difficulte a prendre en compte les capacites de comprehension et de reflexion des enfants. Les constats etablis dans cette etude nous ont permis d’envisager la mise en place de mesure de depistage systematique aupres des familles de consultant en CMP.
Well-definedness of Streams by Transformation and Termination

Streams are infinite sequences over a given data type. A stream specification is a set of equations intended to define a stream. We propose a transformation from such a stream specification to a term rewriting system (TRS) in such a way that termination of the resulting TRS implies that the stream specification is well-defined, that is, admits a unique solution. As a consequence, proving well-definedness of several interesting stream specifications can be done fully automatically using present powerful tools for proving TRS termination. In order to increase the power of this approach, we investigate transformations that preserve semantics and well-definedness. We give examples for which the above mentioned technique applies for the ransformed specification while it fails for the original one.
Rational Animals: What the Bravest Lion Won't Risk Reflections on Nozick's the Nature of Rationality

I begin with a rather unpromising dispute that Nozick once had with Ian Hacking in the pages of the London Review of Books, in which both vied with one another in their enthusiasm to repudiate the thesis that some human people or peoples are closer than others to animality. I shall attempt to show that one can build, on the basis of Nozick's discussion of rationality, a defense of the view that the capacity for language places human rationality out of reach of a comparison with animals. The difference rests, paradoxically, on the human capacity for irrationality. Irrationality depends on the capacity for language, which allows the detachment of explicit thoughts from their underlying dynamic implementation; these, in turn, condition the essential disputability of principles of rationality. That is what places every human potentially—if not actually—on the other side of an unbridgeable gulf that separates us from other animals.
A study of the effect of structural damping on gait stability in quadrupedal locomotion using a musculoskeletal robot

This study reports on a feasibility study on the stability of gait patterns with changeable body stiffness. The periodic motions of the legs are generated as a rhythmic motion. The stability of locomotion strongly depends on the mechanical properties of the body mechanism, especially joint stiffness. In this report, the muscle tone of the robot's motion at the trunk can be changed by using the changeable elasticity of pneumatic actuators. The stability of quadruped locomotion in crawl, trot and pace patterns with changeable body stiffness was evaluated with hardware experiments. As well, the stabilization mechanism is approximated by a simple two-inertia model and analyzed with numerical simulations.
Bait and Snitch: Defending Computer Systems with Decoys

Threats against computer networks continue to multiply, but existing security solutions are persistently unable to keep pace with these challenges. In this paper we present a new paradigm for securing computational resources which we call decoy technology. This technique involves seeding a system with data that appears authentic but is in fact spurious. Attacks can be detected by monitoring this phony information for access events. Decoys are capable of detecting malicious activity, such as insider and masquerade attacks, that are beyond the scope of traditional security measures. They can be used to address confidentiality breaches either proactively or after they have
Circuital modeling and physical understanding of dissipation effects for coupled resonator filters transformed into transversal array configuration

This paper presents a new physical understanding of dissipation effects of microwave coupled resonator filters. Using a matrix transformation enables one to express the filter network not only with a well-known cascaded resonator circuit, but also with a transversal resonator array circuit. It is important to note here that the unloaded Q factors of the resonators in the two networks are defined by the same equation form in the circuit models, but they are computed for totally different resonators in terms of eigemodes. Therefore, as an example, the dissipation effect of a typical microstrip bandpass filter is investigated in detail, using new general closed-form equations derived by the circuit analysis in addition to the eigenmode analysis. The physical insights given in this paper can be indispensable for recent advanced filter designs based on a synthesis theory of transversal resonator array filters.
Proactive multimodal perception for feature based anchoring of complex objects

Every artificial embodied system that act in a physical environment has to connect perceptual data to abstract symbols. This is called symbol anchoring. It is a nontrivial task due to uncertainty of measurements and the virtually unlimited number of distinguishable objects that can be perceived. We review a commonly used anchoring framework and use our mobile service robot to give an example for complex multisensory anchoring of semantically important objects. In a detailed discussion we point out four major problems of the reviewed framework that preclude its application to complex multimodal systems. We propose a novel feature based strategy to avoid the arising computational problems adopting an intelligent scheduler for perceptual activities. We show that scheduling perception is crucial to reduce computational costs for anchoring.
Characterizing Seller-Driven Black-Hat Marketplaces The Curious Case of SEOClerks and MyCheapJobs

This paper investigates two seller-driven black-hat online marketplaces, SEOClerks and MyCheapJobs, aiming to shed light on the services they offer as well as sellers and customers they attract. We perform a measurement-based analysis based on complete crawls of their websites and find that the vast majority of services target popular social media and e-commerce websites, such as website backlinks, Instagram followers, or Twitter retweets, and estimate revenues to be at least $1.3M for SEOClerks and $116K for MyCheapJobs. Our analysis uncovers the characteristics of these two non-underground seller-driven marketplaces and shows that many top sellers belong to an “insider ring”, where accounts created close to the marketplaces’ launch account for the majority of the sales. We provide first-of-its-kind evidence that marketplace operators may be involved in perpetuating fraudulent activities and hope to facilitate deployment of technical, legal, and economic countermeasures.
A methodological and conceptual review of inter organizational information systems integration

The proliferation of applications to support cross-enterprise processes has left companies nursing a collection of systems. The integration of such systems, within and across the organizational boundaries, remains a top issue of researchers and practitioners’ agendas. Although integration has long been treated as a key variable in the IS field, the construct has received little conceptual scrutiny. In this essay we argue that the concept of IOIS integration (cross-enterprise integration of information systems) is still ambiguous and lacks an understanding on its nature. Thus we explore prior literature that has attempted to conceptualize IOIS integration. We examine dimensions that concern both the methodology used (epistemology, theoretical perspective, research approach, duration of the study, conceptual model and unit of analysis), and the construct (scope, layer of integration and conceptualization of the ICT artefact). Sixty-one articles are reviewed. We present the results and discuss different dimensions of the construct (definition, antecedents, consequences and measures). The purpose of this literature survey is to shed some light on the IOIS integration construct as well as to uncover areas for future research.