Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Drawing as a Means to Design Reasoning

We investigate the functions of drawing in design and how, based on these functions, a computational sketching environment might support design reasoning. Design, like all problem solving activities, involves reasoning— making decisions, expressing ideas, verifying and evaluating proposals, and ultimately, taking action. For designers, drawing is a vehicle for design reasoning, and therefore the spontaneous marks made on paper during sketching form a partial record of the designer’s thinking. Most designers sketch early design ideas with a pencil on paper: sketching is still the quickest and most direct means to produce visual representations of ideas. The ambiguity of free hand sketching allows multiple interpretations and thus stimulates the production of more design alternatives. The linked acts of drawing and looking invite designers to recognize new interpretations of the alternatives they propose. By drawing and looking, designers find visual analogies, remember relevant examples, and discover new shapes based on previously unrecognized geometric configurations in their sketches. 1. Thinking with a pencil Visual representations such as freehand sketches and concept diagrams seem to play a significant role in design problem solving. Design reasoning is accompanied by, and we might say, embedded in, the act of drawing. Sketching on paper and pencil supports ambiguity, imprecision, and incremental formalization of ideas as well as rapid exploration of alternatives.
Exploiting Equitable Partitions for Efficient Block Triangularization

In graph theory a partition of the vertex set of a graph is called equitable if for all pairs of cells all vertices in one cell have an equal number of neighbours in the other cell. Considering the implications for the adjacency matrix one may generalize that concept as a block partition of a complex square matrix s.t. each block has constant row sum. It is well known that replacing each block by its row sum yields a smaller matrix whose multiset of eigenvalues is contained in the initial spectrum. We generalize this approach to weighted row sums and rectangular matrices and derive an efficient unitary transformation which approximately block triangularizes a matrix w.r. t. an arbitrary partition. Singular values and Hermiticity (if present) are preserved. The approximation is exact in the equitable case and the error can be bounded in terms of unitarily invariant matrix norms.
Statistical Beaconing Congestion Control for Vehicular Networks

Cooperative intervehicular applications rely on the periodic exchange of broadcast single-hop status messages among vehicles, which are called beacons. The aggregated load on a wireless channel due to beacons can prevent the transmission of other types of messages, which is called channel congestion due to beaconing activity. In this paper, we propose a novel statistical approach to transmit power control (TPC) for beaconing congestion control, which is called statistical beaconing congestion control (SBCC). Unlike previous proposals, SBCC uses local information and very limited feedback, and its implementation is simple. Each vehicle locally computes the power needed to comply with a given maximum beacon load as a function of estimated channel parameters, vehicle density, and beaconing rate. A realistic Nakagami- m fading and path-loss propagation model is assumed. We provide a final expression of the algorithm as a linear proportional controller, with two variants, i.e., channel-busy-time-(CBT) based SBCC (SBCC-C) and neighbor-based SBCC (SBCC-N), depending on how the parameters are estimated. Additionally, we derive an expression for the estimated communication range under interference, which approximates the average fraction of packets lost due to hidden-node collisions. Finally, we evaluate the performance degradation caused by differences in local vehicle densities and propose a mechanism, which is called edge correction (EC), to limit it while keeping the safety benefits of an extended range at the edge of a cluster of vehicles. SBCC is validated with a realistic hybrid network-traffic simulator, and results show that it effectively controls beaconing congestion.
Die schweizerische Entschuldungsfazilität - ein Flop?

The article presents an evaluation of the Swiss debt-reduction-facility, which was founded in 1991 in order to reduce the negative consequences of high outstanding debts of poor countries. The theoretical conditions for a success of the action are shown and compared with the empirical evidence. The result is that a direct gift would bring more utility for the addressees than the chosen facility.
User Identity Resolution Across Multi-Social Media

Nowadays, Internet is fulfilled by huge-scale personal information, and there exists a phenomenon that these kinds of personal information are not distributed in the Internet randomly, but archived in several social media under a certain rule, which is said the different characters of social media. It is rational to infer to the conclusion that we could not learn the every aspect of an individual through only one social medium he/she using, and only if through multi-social media could we learn the more integrated information of individuals. This thesis proposes an approach for user identity resolution based on user’s social network and user’s behavior patterns. After collecting available user’s network and personal information, the approach accomplishes this task that analyze and compare these data, including similarity measure between nodes of networks and string similarity measure, and finally determine whether they are match with each other according to the calculation results. The experimental results show that the method improved the recognition accuracy.
Global Brands as Embodied “Generic Spaces”

By and large, branding literature provides a view of global brands as primarily signifying, semiotic devices. This semiotization of brands is due to a cultural bias that favors the discursive world of signs over lived practices and experiences. Taking Best Western global brand and using Lefèbvre’s tripartite conceptualization—spatial practice, representation of space, and spaces of representation—it is argued that global brands can be seen as generic spaces. However, whereas generic spaces are most commonly regarded as disembodied spaces, in this article, it is argued that they actually are lived, embodied, and specific experiences.
Study on the Improved BP Algorithm and Application

First, the paper analyzes the standard BP Algorithm. Toward the limitation of the standard BP algorithm, an improved BP algorithm is obtained by modifying the action function, regulating the learning rate and choosing the initial weights. And then a recognition example about license plate recognition technology is given to prove the improved BP algorithm. From the exam results, the improved BP algorithm has some advantages in fast convergence speed, short recognition time and high recognition rate.
Trusted Access Control System for Smart Campus

Many access control systems are still based on the first generation of contactless technologies like RFID or NFC despite well known cloning attack. Furthermore, the cost of the deployment of secure cards for large organizations (DESFIRE for instance) is expensive. Also, these systems do not always check authentication of the holders of RFID tags or NFC cards. In this paper, we present a proposal for an architecture to build a secure access control system based on Trusted Execution Environments (TEE), Identity Based Encryption (IBE) mechanisms. We also identify the challenges to overcome before deploying such an architecture.
A Method to Calculate the Exit Time in Stochastic Simulations

A novel method is presented to compute the exit time for the stochastic simulation algorithm. The method is based on the addition of a series of random variables and is derived using the convolution theorem. The final distribution is derived and approximated in the frequency domain. The distribution for the final time is transformed back to the real domain and can be sampled from in a simulation. The result is an approximation of the classical stochastic simulation algorithm that requires fewer random variates. An analysis of the error and speedup compared to the stochastic simulation algorithm is presented.
Design and implementation of an SRAM layout generator

In this paper the design and implementation of an SRAM layout generator is presented. The generated memories are aimed at implementation of system on chips for DSP applications. The purpose with the generator is to increase the design efficiency and reduce the dependency on commercial memories. The generator is implemented in SKILL in order to be easily modified for more advanced processes. The current version use a standard 0.18 μm CMOS process.
A comparative static analysis of some monetarist propositions

Robert H. Rasohe is Associate Professor of Economics at Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan. During the 1971-72 academic year, Professor Rasche was a visiting scholar at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, The following paper evolved out of discussions and seminars with the stafi of this Bank during his visit. The paper is presented in order to foster further discussion of those propositions generally associated with the inonetarist franwwork of analysis.
An Exploratory Statistical Analysis of NASDAQ-Provided Trade Data

Since Benoit Mandelbrot’s discovery of the fractal nature of financial price series, the quantitative analysis of financial markets has been an area of increasing interest for scientists, traders, and regulators. Further, major technological advances over this time have facilitated not only financial innovations, but also the computational ability to analyze and model markets. The stylized facts are qualitative statistical signatures of financial market data that hold true across different stocks and over many different timescales. In pursuit of a mechanistic understanding of markets, we look to accurately quantify such statistics. With this quantification, we can test computational market models against the stylized facts and run controlled experiments. This requires both discovery of new stylized facts, and a persistent testing of old stylized facts on new data. Using NASDAQ provided data covering the years 2008-2009, we analyze the trades of 120 stocks. An analysis of the stylized facts guides our exploration of the data, where our results corroborate other findings in the existing body of literature. In addition, we search for statistical indicators of market instability in our data sets. We find promising areas for further study, and obtain three key results. Throughout our sample data, high frequency trading plays a larger role in rapid price changes of all sizes than would be randomly expected, but plays a smaller role than usual during rapid price changes of large magnitude (> .0.5% ∆p). Our analysis also yields further evidence of the long term persistence in the autocorrelations of signed order flow, as well as evidence of long range dependence in price returns.
Molecular epidemiology of genetic polymorphisms in estrogen metabolizing enzymes in human breast cancer.

Epidemiologic studies indicate that most risk factors for breast cancer are related to reproductive and hormonal factors. For a number of years, the mechanism for estrogens in carcinogenesis was thought to be that of mitotic stimulation, with the growth promotion of ductal epithelial cells harboring precursor mutations in the breast. However, evidence is now available that estrogens may act as initiators of cellular alterations and tumorigenesis. Investigation and measurement of serum levels of estrogens in epidemiologic studies may, therefore, be misleading, because they may reflect levels quite different from those of hormone metabolites to which the target tissue is exposed. Proportions of hormone metabolites may be estimated by evaluation of associations between breast cancer risk and genetic polymorphisms in enzymes involved in hormone metabolism. A number of molecular epidemiologic studies have been conducted to evaluate associations between polymorphic genes involved in steroid hormone metabolism (i.e., CYP17, COMT, CYP1A1, CYP19, GST, and MnSOD) that may account for a proportion of enzymatic variability, and results are discussed in this review. There are strengths and limitations to such an approach, foremost of which may be the lack of insight into the extent to which individual variability in estrogen exposure may be explained by allelic variation. Variability in other endogenous and exogenous factors that impact parent hormones and their metabolites along activation and conjugation pathways may also affect associations in case-control comparisons. This and other possible reasons for inconsistencies in results of molecular epidemiologic studies are discussed. Contributions from population-based studies and those from the laboratory may together move this field ahead and more clearly elucidate the basis of hormonally related cancers, identifying etiologic factors and susceptible populations for preventive strategies.
The importance of genetic diagnosis for Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and Becker muscular dystrophy are caused by mutations in the dystrophin-encoding DMD gene. Large deletions and duplications are most common, but small mutations have been found as well. Having a correct diagnosis is important for family planning and providing proper care to patients according to published guidelines. With mutation-specific therapies under development for DMD, a correct diagnosis is now also important for assessing whether patients are eligible for treatments. This review discusses different mutations causing DMD, diagnostic techniques available for making a genetic diagnosis for children suspected of DMD and the importance of having a specific genetic diagnosis in the context of emerging genetic therapies for DMD.
The Role of ICT in Poverty Reduction

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) plays a major role in all aspects of national life: in politics, in economic life, as well as in social and cultural development. It is rapidly transforming our lives, the way we do business, access information and services, communicate with each other and entertain ourselves. It fuels the global economy. It also relates to human rights, helping, at best, to support freedom of expression and right to information according to Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Simultaneous optical performance monitoring and modulation format/bit-rate identification using principal component analysis

We propose a novel technique for simultaneous multi-impairment monitoring and autonomous bit-rate and modulation format identification (BR-MFI) in next-generation heterogeneous fiber-optic communication networks by using principal component analysis-based pattern recognition on asynchronous delay-tap plots. The results of numerical simulations performed for three commonly used modulation formats at two different bit-rates each demonstrate simultaneous and independent monitoring of optical signal-to-noise ratio, chromatic dispersion, and differential group delay with mean errors of 1 dB, 4 ps/nm, and 1.6 ps, respectively, without knowing the signal's bit-rate and modulation format. Similarly, the results for joint BR-MFI validate accurate identification of all the bit-rates and modulation formats despite the presence of various network impairments. The effects of fiber nonli-nearity and transmitter variations on the performance of the proposed technique are also investigated.
Optimality in combinations of confidence measures for stereo vision

Confidence measures for stereo vision are already popular for some time. Yet, comprehensive results on their performance evaluation are rare. There is still not yet any agreement on answering the question 'what is a good confidence measure'. Very little work has been done for improving discriminativity by exploiting information from combinations of different confidence measures. We present a method to determine an upper bound for performance increase possible by combining given confidence measures. We also provide a solution for a fusion of measures resulting in improved confidence accuracy on popular stereo benchmark data.
Fiscal Decentralization and Poverty Reduction Outcomes: Theory and Evidence

Fiscal Decentralization and Poverty Reduction Outcomes: Theory and Evidence By Guevera Assamoi Yao December 2006 Committee Chair: Dr. Jorge Luis Martinez-Vazquez Major Department: Economics This dissertation examines the effect of fiscal decentralization on poverty reduction and explores potential transmission channels through pro-poor sectoral outcomes such as basic education, basic healthcare and agricultural productivity. We first develop a theoretical model to explain the interaction between decentralization and poverty reduction outcomes. In particular, we show that the marginal effect of fiscal decentralization on pro-poor sectors depends largely on the outcome of the trade-off between potential benefits derived from better matching of local preference due to local proximity, and the lack of technical capacity at the local level. This finding provides, in a way, a theoretical explanation of the different outcomes observed in fiscal decentralization programs around the world. This inconclusive theoretical result motivates an empirical analysis to assess whether there is any statistical significant relationship between fiscal decentralization and poverty. We implement this estimation using the Generalized Method of Moment Instrumental Variable (GMM-IV) methodology on 97 countries spanned over the period 1975-2000. Our estimation results reveal a statistically significant, but non-linear
The Inflation-Output Trade-Off: Is the Phillips Curve Symmetric? A Policy Lesson from New Zealand

New Zealand data show that the inflation-output relationship is asymmetric. This asymmetry implies that positive demand shocks tend to increase inflation by more than negative demand shocks of similar magnitudes reduce it. An important implication of this asymmetry is that a monetary authority with the objective of maintaining the inflation rate within a narrow band needs to react more promptly to demand shocks than otherwise be necessary. Alternatively, policy that is slow to respond to demand disturbances will result in higher inflation, and greater losses of output than would be the case with a linear Phillips curve.
Research Paper Series Globalisation and Labour Markets Effective Protection, Policy Appraisal and Trade Policy Reform the Authors Effective Protection, Policy Appraisal and Trade Policy Reform

Acknowledgements The authors are grateful for financial support from the Leverhulme Trust under the Programme Grant F114/BF. Abstract When the effective protection concept was first developed it was widely regarded as a key measure of the structure of protection and became widely deployed. It was however subject to a theoretical critique on the grounds that it was essentially a partial equilibrium measure, which could not be easily embedded in a general equilibrium framework. Notwithstanding this critique, the concept has continued to be widely used, especially in the context of policy reform and policy appraisal in developing countries. This paper re-appraises the concept, reviews the extent of its application and discusses the factors behind its longevity as an investigative tool. The paper concludes that the measure still has a role to play in evaluating the structure of protection.
Calibration of Nodal and Free-Moving Cameras in Dynamic Scenes for Post-Production

In film production, many post-production tasks require the availability of accurate camera calibration information. This paper presents an algorithm for through-the-lens calibration of a moving camera for a common scenario in film production and broadcasting: The camera views a dynamic scene, which is also viewed by a set of static cameras with known calibration. The proposed method involves the construction of a sparse scene model from the static cameras, with respect to which the moving camera is registered, by applying the appropriate perspective-n-point (PnP) solver. In addition to the general motion case, the algorithm can handle the nodal cameras with unknown focal length via a novel P2P algorithm. The approach can identify a subset of static cameras that are more likely to generate a high number of scene-image correspondences, and can robustly deal with dynamic scenes. Our target applications include dense 3D reconstruction, stereoscopic 3D rendering and 3D scene augmentation, through which the success of the algorithm is demonstrated experimentally.
Extended Markov Tracking with an Application to Control

We present here a tracking method for Markovian system dynamics which operates in an on-line fashion, during interaction with the system. Existence of a simple numerical solution of the technique is demonstrated. We also demonstrate the application of the tracking method in a novel continual planning architecture, together with experimental data to support the validity of the presented tracking approach.
Reconfiguration Strategy for FPGA Dependability Characteristics Improvement based on Stochastic Petri Net

Abstract This paper shows the impact of the trade-off between reconfigurable and non-reconfigurable parts of the FPGA to the dependability characteristics of the whole design. Stochastic Petri nets have been used to compute reliability and dependability characteristics in a simple FPGA design with dynamically reconfigurable modules. Some parts of the design are not possible or proper to reconfigure dynamically (e.g. module interconnections, module-pin connections …). A non-reconfigurable overhead may have a significant effect to the availability of the design. The granularity of reconfigurable parts and their number can also affect dependability parameters. The method how to enumerate these effects via a formal dependability model is shown in this paper.
Second Derivative of Photoplethysmography for Estimating Vascular Aging

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the major causes of death. Therefore recurrent monitoring of arterial condition is important. The photoplethysmography (PPG) is simple and cost effective technique to measure blood volume change. As an application of PPG technique, the second derivative of photoplethysmography(SDPTG) was introduced for monitoring arterial condition. SDPTG consists of an a, b, c and d wave in systole and an e wave in diastole. The SDPTG wave pattern is determined by the proportions of the b, c, d, and e waves to the a wave. In the present study, it is confirmed that the b/a ratio and SDPTG-AI increased with age, and the c/a, d/a, and e/a ratios decreased with age. The informal method which substitutes formal SDPTG-AI was suggested.
A bounded positive non-linear PI control law for double-pipe heat exchangers

In this work, a PI-type control scheme for the outlet temperature regulation of double-pipe heat exchangers is proposed. Compared to previously proposed approaches, the algorithm developed here guarantees positivity and boundedness of the input flow rate. Moreover, the proposed approach takes into account and actually exploits the analytical-stability features inherent to the open-loop dynamics. As a result, outlet temperature regulation is achieved through a simple controller which does not need to feedback the whole state vector, does not depend on the exact value of the system parameters, and whose stabilization character is global in the closed-loop system state-space domain. The analytical developments are corroborated through experimental results.