Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Axisymmetric vortex breakdown Part 1. Confined swirling flow

A comparison between the experimental visualization and numerical simulations of the occurrence of vortex breakdown in laminar swirling flows produced by a rotating endwall is presented. The experimental visualizations of Escudier (1984) were the first to detect the presence of multiple recirculation zones and the numerical model presented here, consisting of a numerical solution of the unsteady axisymmetric Navier-Stokes equations, faithfully reproduces these phenomena and all other observed characteristics of the flow. Further, the numerical calculations elucidate the onset of oscillatory flow, an aspect of the flow that was not clearly resolved by the flow visualization experiments. Part 2 of the paper examines the underlying physics of these vortex flows.
A method for magnetizing curve identification in vector controlled induction motor drives

In vector controlled induction motor drives, to optimally select the stator or rotor flux reference, in field weakening region, it is necessary to take into consideration also the machine magnetizing curve. The paper proposes a methodology for the identification of the magnetizing curve that can be applied at standstill. The approach consists on applying to the stator windings a suitable mono-phase current waveform and memorizing the stator voltage. A subsequent elaboration of the two waveforms allows the determination of the shape of the magnetizing inductance
Distributed Multi-Task Learning

We consider the problem of distributed multi-task learning, where each machine learns a separate, but related, task. Specifically, each machine learns a linear predictor in high-dimensional space,where all tasks share the same small support. We present a communication-efficient estimator based on the debiased lasso and show that it is comparable with the optimal centralized method.
Aplicações do problema de otimização de carteiras de investimento

Neste trabalho, propomos a determinacao de uma carteira de investimento otima via um metodo sem derivada. Para isso, utilizamos o modelo de media-variância proposto por Harry M. Markowitz. no qual o problema e formulado de modo a se minimizar o risco do portfolio para um dado nivel de retorno esperado, ou maximizar o nivel de retorno fixado do portfolio associado a um dado nivel de risco e determinar todas as carteiras otimas, no sentido risco e retorno, formando a Fronteira Eficiente. Nosso algoritmo e baseado no Metodo Nelder-Mead, destinado a resolucao de problemas de programacao nao linear irrestritos. Assim, adequamos a formulacao do portfolio, que depende de restricoes, para a utilizacao do mesmo. Abstract
Design recommendations to mitigate memory and cache non-determinisms in multi-core based IMA platform of airborne systems

The adoption of multi-core processors in airborne safety-critical systems has been troublesome to the aeronautic industry. This type of processor inserts new sources of non-determinism on application execution, increasing difficulty to perform safety analysis that relies on Worst-Case Execution Time (WCET). Design recommendations to mitigate non-determinism in airborne multi-core systems are presented in this work. A prototype of platform was constructed in order to demonstrate feasibility of non-determinism mitigation recommendations. We utilized the prototype to experiment with parallel memory access. The recommendations are a sound basis to allow multi-core processors to be used in airborne systems, however, some changes are required.
An Enhanced System Architecture for Optimized Demand Side Management in Smart Grid

Demand Side Management (DSM) through optimization of home energy consumption in the smart grid environment is now one of the well-known research areas. Appliance scheduling has been done through many different algorithms to reduce peak load and, consequently, the Peak to Average Ratio (PAR). This paper presents a Comprehensive Home Energy Management Architecture (CHEMA) with integration of multiple appliance scheduling options and enhanced load categorization in a smart grid environment. The CHEMA model consists of six layers and has been modeled in Simulink with an embedded MATLAB code. A single Knapsack optimization technique is used for scheduling and four different cases of cost reduction are modeled at the second layer of CHEMA. Fault identification and electricity theft control have also been added in CHEMA. Furthermore, carbon footprint calculations have been incorporated in order to make the users aware of environmental concerns. Simulation results prove the effectiveness of the proposed model.
A formal approach to protocols and strategies for (legal) negotiation

We propose a formal and executable framework for expressing protocols and strategies for automated (legal) negotiation. In this framework a party involved in a negotiation is represented through a software agent composed of four modules: (i) a communication module which manages the interaction with the other agents; (ii) a control module; (iii) a reasoning module specified as a defeasible theory; and (iv) a knowledge base which bridges the control and the reasoning modules, while keeping track of past decisions and interactions. The choice of defeasible logic is justified against a set of desirable criteria for negotiation automation languages. Moreover, the suitability of the framework is illustrated through two case studies.
Alloreactive cytolytic T cell clones with dual recognition of HLA-B27 and HLA-DR2 antigens. Selective involvement of CD8 in their class I-- directed cytotoxicity

HLA-B27- responder cells were stimulated in vitro with HLA-B27.1+ lymphoblastoid cell lines, and alloreactive CTL clones were obtained by limiting dilution. Three of these clones specifically lysed B27.1+ targets. In addition, they also lysed homozygous DR2 targets with various degrees of efficiency, depending on the Dw specificity of the target cell. All three clones possessed a homogeneous CD3+,CD8+,CD4- phenotype and were also homogeneous upon subcloning. Cold-target inhibition analyses showed mutual inhibition of B27.1 target lysis by DR2 targets and vice versa. Lysis of B27.1 targets was selectively inhibited by anti-class I mAbs. In contrast, lysis of DR2 targets was inhibited only by anti-class II and anti-DR monomorphic antibodies, but not by anti-class I, anti-DQw1, or anti-DP antibodies. The results indicate that these clones display dual recognition for HLA-B27.1 and for HLA-DR2 and suggest that HLA-B27.1 may share at least one epitope that is closely related to some stimulatory Dw determinants present on the HLA-DR2 antigens. Lysis of both B27+ and DR+ targets was inhibited by an anti-CD3 mAb. In contrast, an anti-CD8 antibody selectively inhibited the B27- but not the DR2-directed killing by these clones. The data support a stabilizing role of CD8 through its binding to the same class I (but not class II) molecule on the target cell bound by the T cell antigen receptor.
A dynamical study of optically selected distant clusters

We present a programme of spectroscopic observations of galaxies in a sample of optically-selected clusters taken from the catalogue of Couch et al (1991). Previous ROSAT observations of these clusters have shown them to have lower X-ray luminosities, given their optical richness, than might be expected on the basis of local samples. In the present paper we extend this work by determining velocity dispersions of a subsample of the clusters. We confirm the dynamical reality of all but one of the original sample, and find velocity dispersions comparable with present-day clusters of equivalent comoving space density. Thus, in the context of the $L_X-\sigma$ relation for present-day clusters, there is evidence for a higher velocity dispersion at fixed X-ray luminosity. A key question is whether the high velocity dispersions are indicative of the gravitational potential. If they are, the X-ray luminosities measured in Bower et al., 1994 (Paper I), would then imply an implausibly low efficiency of X-ray generation. Alternatively, the discrepancy could be explained if the clusters were systems of lower virial temperature, in which the apparent velocity dispersion is inflated by an infalling, unrelaxed halo. This might result either from an increase with redshift in the infall rate for clusters, or from the preferential selection of clusters embedded in filaments oriented along the line of sight. Since clusters with similar properties can be found in local optically selected catalogues, we suggest that the latter explanation is more likely.
The conserved mitotic kinase polo is regulated by phosphorylation and has preferred microtubule‐associated substrates in Drosophila embryo extracts.

The Drosophila gene polo encodes a protein kinase required for progression through mitosis. Wild‐type polo protein migrates as a tight doublet of 67 kDa which is converted to a single band by phosphatase treatment, which also inactivates the kinase. We have determined putative polo substrates in a cell‐free system derived from mutant embryos. Exogenous polo protein kinase phosphorylates proteins of sizes 220 kDa, 85 kDa and 54 kDa, to a greater extent when added to extracts of polo(1)‐derived embryos compared with extracts of wild‐type embryos, which in both cases have been subject to mild heat treatment to inactivate endogenous kinases. Proteins of the same size are predominantly phosphorylated by the endogenous kinases present in wild‐type extracts, and are either not phosphorylated or are poorly phosphorylated in extracts of polo(1)‐derived embryos. We show that a specific monoclonal antibody to beta‐tubulin precipitates the phosphorylated 54 kDa protein together with an associated 85 kDa protein also phosphorylated by polo protein kinase. Moreover polo binds to an 85 kDa protein which is enriched in microtubule preparations. We discuss the extent to which these in vitro phosphorylation results reflect the effects of mutations in polo on microtubule behaviour during the mitotic cycle.
Changes in poverty in Uganda, 1992-1996

Analysis of four nationally representative household surveys from Uganda show a fall in poverty from 1992-1996. Using an absolute poverty line calculated following Ravallion and Bidani, we find 56% of Ugandans were poor in 1992 falling to 46% in 1996. The fall is due to growth, not redistribution, with cash crop farming, manufacturing and distribution sectors benefiting the most. The North has gained the least and poverty has increased amongst households whose heads were not working. The poorest fifth have experienced falling living standards in the last three surveys.
Hormonal Modulation of Perception in Motivation-Based Action Selection Architectures

The animat approach to artificial intelligence proposes biologically-inspired control mechanisms for autonomous robots. One of the related subproblems is action selection or “what to do next”. Many action selection architectures have been proposed. Motivation-based architectures implement a combination between internal and external stimuli to choose the appropriate behavior. Recent studies have pointed out that a second order mechanism to control motivation-based architectures would improve dramatically their performance. Drawing on the notion of biological hormones we have modeled two of the functionalities ascribed to them in order to improve the adaptivity of motivation-based architectures. We have tested our “hormone-like” mechanisms in dynamic and unpredictable robotic scenarios. We analyze the results in terms of interesting behavioral phenomena that emerge from the interaction of these artificial hormones with the rest of architectural elements.
Computerized Functional Reach Test to Measure Balance Stability in Elderly Patients With Neurological Disorders

Background The ability to maintain static and dynamic balance is a prerequisite for safe walking and for obtaining functional mobility. For this reason, a reliable and valid means of screening for risk of falls is needed. The functional reach test (FRT) is used in many countries, yet it does not provide some kinematic parameters such as shoulder or pelvic girdles translation. The purpose was to analyze video records measuring of distance, velocity, time length, arm direction and girdles translation while doing FRT. Methods A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted where the above variables were correlated to the mini-mental state examination (MMSE) for mental status and the Tinetti balance assessment test, which have been validated, in order to computerize the FRT (cFRT) for elderly patients with neurological disorders. Eighty patients were tested and 54 were eligible to serve as experimental group. The patients underwent the MMSE, the Tinetti test and the FRT. LAB view software was used to record the FRT performances and to process the videos. The control group consisted of 51 healthy subjects who had been previously tested. Results The experimental group was not able to perform the tests as well as the healthy control subjects. The video camera provided valuable kinematic results such as bending down while performing the forward reach test. Conclusions Instead of manual measurement, we proposed to use a cheap with fair resolution web camera to accurately estimate the FRT. The kinematic parameters were correlated with Tinetti and MMSE scores. The performance values established in this study indicate that the cFRT is a reliable and valid assessment, which provides more accurate data than “manual” test about functional reach.
A Method of Image Edition with Haptic Devices

Advanced force feedback devices can realize tactile sensation with the current virtual reality techniques. These devices are expected to bring new type of interactions between human and computers. In this paper, an advanced image edition tool with these force feedback interfaces is proposed. Users can utilize haptic information for image edition additionally. We discuss about a method of haptic rendering and display for image features by using a prototype of this tool.
Neurogenetics and Behaviour in Insects

SUMMARY The importance of the genome for behaviour has been amply demonstrated by the tools of population genetics. A deeper understanding of the relationship between genes and behaviour requires an investigation of how they influence brain development and neuronal function. This is the objective of neurogenetics. Rigid genetic control of brain structure in insects is indicated by bilateral symmetry and by the similarity of isogenic brains (in locust). In large parts of the brain (e.g. optic lobes) the role of developmental variability seems to be as limited as in nematodes, but at closer inspection, the growth of at least some brain structures (e.g. mushroom bodies) is influenced by experience, similar to the growth of some vertebrate systems. The role of individual genes for brain development and brain function is being studied in Drosophila melanogaster. Here, many single gene mutations affecting the brain and behaviour have been isolated. They either alter the development of neural circuits or modify cellular functions of neurones. Mutations of both categories are often remarkably specific (i.e. they influence only certain functional subsystems, leaving others unaffected). Therefore, functional subsystems are to some degree ontogenetic units under independent genetic control. Telling examples are sexual dimorphisms of behaviour and brain structure. The already peripheral separation of functional pathways in the brain seems to be partially due to the selective advantage of independent genetic modifiability of functions.
Functional Importance of L- and P/Q-Type Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels in Human Renal Vasculature

Calcium channel blockers are widely used for treatment of hypertension, because they decrease peripheral vascular resistance through inhibition of voltage-gated calcium channels. Animal studies of renal vasculature have shown expression of several types of calcium channels that are involved in kidney function. It was hypothesized that human renal vascular excitation-contraction coupling involves different subtypes of channels. In human renal artery and dissected intrarenal blood vessels from nephrectomies, PCR analysis showed expression of L-type (Cav 1.2), P/Q-type (Cav 2.1), and T-type subtype (Cav 3.1 and Cav 3.2) voltage-gated calcium channels (Cavs), and quantitative PCR showed highest expression of L-type channels in renal arteries and variable expression between patients of subtypes of calcium channels in intrarenal vessels. Immunohistochemical labeling of kidney sections revealed signals for Cav 2.1 and Cav 3.1 associated with smooth muscle cells of preglomerular and postglomerular vessels. In human intrarenal arteries, depolarization with potassium induced a contraction inhibited by the L-type antagonist nifedipine, EC50 1.2×10−8 mol/L. The T-type antagonist mibefradil inhibited the potassium-induced constriction with large variations between patients. Interestingly, the P/Q-type antagonist, &ohgr;-agatoxin IVA, inhibited significantly the contraction with 24% at 10−9 mol/L. In conclusion L-, P/Q, and T-type channels are expressed in human renal blood vessels, and L- and P/Q-type channels are of functional importance for the depolarization-induced vasoconstriction. The contribution of P/Q-type channels to contraction in the human vasculature is a novel mechanism for the regulation of renal blood flow and suggests that clinical treatment with calcium blockers might affect vascular reactivity also through P/Q-type channel inhibition.
Competition and performance : evidence for Australia

This paper investigates the association between the intensity of competition and performance in Australia. Survey data from Australian workplaces (1995) are used to assess the association between competition and productivity growth. The main finding is that only in workplaces where there is no principal owner working does competition appear to raise productivity growth. In addition, accounting data from large firms (1994-97) are used to assess associations between R&D intensity and competitive conditions. Here the main finding is that R&D intensity is highest when competitive conditions are ‘strong’ rather than ‘intense’.
An ID-Based Pairwise Key Predistribution Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks

Providing a suitable key establishment scheme in wireless sensor networks is challenging due to all the characteristics of these networks, such as limitations of power, computation capability and storage resources. Several key management schemes were proposed, but most of them are not resilient to nodes capture. In order to improve the resilience to nodes compromising, in this paper we propose an ID-based pairwise key predistribution scheme that is based on a hierarchical grid model for wireless sensor networks. In the proposed scheme, the symmetric matrix is employed by hierarchical grid model to establish pairwise key. So it can achieve high resilience to nodes compromising.
Impact of Maternal Age on Obstetric Outcome

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the effect of maternal age on obstetric outcomes. METHODS: A prospective database from a multicenter investigation of singletons, the FASTER trial, was studied. Subjects were divided into 3 age groups: 1) less than 35 years, 2) 35–39 years, and 3) 40 years and older. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the effect of age on outcomes after adjusting for race, parity, body mass index, education, marital status, smoking, medical history, use of assisted conception, and patient's study site. RESULTS: A total of 36,056 women with complete data were available: 28,398 (79%) less than 35 years of age; 6,294 (17%) 35–39 years; and 1,364 (4%) 40 years and older. Increasing age was significantly associated with miscarriage (adjusted odds ratio [adjOR]2.0 and 2.4 for ages 35–39 years and age 40 years and older, respectively), chromosomal abnormalities (adjOR 4.0 and 9.9), congenital anomalies (adjOR 1.4 and 1.7), gestational diabetes (adjOR 1.8 and 2.4), placenta previa (adjOR 1.8 and 2.8), and cesarean delivery (adjOR 1.6 and 2.0). Patients aged 35–39 years were at increased risk for macrosomia (adjOR 1.4). Increased risk for abruption (adjOR 2.3), preterm delivery (adjOR 1.4), low birth weight (adjOR 1.6), and perinatal mortality (adjOR 2.2) was noted in women aged 40 years and older. CONCLUSION: Increasing maternal age is independently associated with specific adverse pregnancy outcomes. Increasing age is a continuum rather than a threshold effect. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II-2
A Novel pattern recognition model for real-time voice data input

The classical front end analysis in speech recognition is a spectral analysis which parameterizes the speech signal into feature vectors. This paper proposes a voice recognition model that is able to automatically classify and recognize a voice signal with background noise. The model uses the concept of spectrogram, pitch period, short time energy, zero crossing rate, mel frequency scale and cepestral coefficient in order to calculate feature vectors. The k-Nearest Neighbor (k-NN) classification is used for classification and recognition of real-time input signal. Analytical hierarchical process is used for deciding the weightage of different features.
Improving Tools for JavaScript Programmers ( Position Paper )

We present an overview of three research projects that all aim to provide better tools for JavaScript web application programmers: TAJS, which infers static type information for JavaScript applications using dataflow analysis; JSRefactor, which enables sound code refactorings; and Artemis, which provides high-coverage automated testing. 1. JAVASCRIPT PROGRAMMERS NEED
A Conditional Restricted Equilibrium Correction Model on Nigerian Stock Exchange All-Share Index and Macroeconomic Indicators with 2008 Global Financial Crisis Effects: A Univariate Framework Approach

This paper employed the modified autoregressive distributed lag (ADRL) procedure to establish a univariate single level relationship existing between the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) All-Share Index and three macroeconomic indicators such as Treasury bill rate, nominal exchange rate and inflation rate in Nigeria. A conditional restricted equilibrium correction model (ECM) was postulated with significant long-run relationship between NSE All-Share Index, exchange rate and inflation rate. The model relates exchange rate and inflation rate negatively with the All-Share Index in the long-run. Treasury bill rate have no long-run relationship with All-Share Index. The short-run dynamics indicated a negative causal relationship between All-Share Index and the three macroeconomic indicators. The results of this paper showed that All-Share index is slow to react to any disequilibrium caused by shocks on these macroeconomic indicators in the long-run. The 2008 global financial crisis had an insignificant negative effect on the NSE All-Share Index due to improved financial deepening. Monetary policy stability is crucial to price level control because inflation is a monetary phenomenon in Nigeria. Therefore, this paper propose that the efficient use of Treasury bills as apparatus of monetary policy (inflation-targeting) and major source of government financing is essential to the growth of the Nigerian stock market. In addition to efficient monetary policy through interest rate and most importantly exchange rate, a secure fiscal discipline through effective government spending will likely have a positive effect on the All-Share Index rapidly and directly.