Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Risk Balance & Security

Preface Acknowledgments Chapter One: The Centrality of Security Security Matters Risk Positions Approaching Security Modelling Security Studying Security from Many Perspectives Conclusion Notes to Chapter 1 Chapter Two: Values and Choices in Constructing Security The Values of Security The Invention of Risk Society The Context of Risk Society Applying Risk Society to Risk Balance Culture and Messages About Security Judging Hazards, Threats, and Risks Experts Routines, Experts, and Trust Types of Resources Security From What? Security for Whom? Conclusion Notes to Chapter 2 Chapter Three: Crime and Security How Much Crime and How Can It Be Addressed Policing and Crime Risk Protecting the Public: Community Policing and Intelligence-Led Policing Who Polices Whom? Security Against Crime Profiling Offenders Profiling Victims Assessing Crime Information Profiling Routines, Spaces, and Places Preventing Crime? Crime Events and Risk Balance Conclusion Notes to Chapter 3 Chapter Four: Modern Terrorism Terrorism and Security Who Are the Terrorists and What Threat Do They Pose? Globalization Who "We" Are Intelligence: Information and Knowledge "We Have Some Planes. " Dealing With Vulnerability Identification of Vulnerability and Vulnerability-Producting Mechanisms Raising Awareness of Vulnerabiity Accurate Information Readiness and Response Conclusion Notes to Chapter 4 Chapter Five: Landscapes of Security: Health and the Environment The Physical Landscape: Health In Sickness and in Health Jurisdiction and Spillover Effects Brakes and Accelerators in the Local and Global Health Environments Terrorist Events as Health Events Summary The Physical Landscape: The Environment Defining Environmental Security Power and Knowledge The Blurry Boundaries Between Natural, Man-Made, and Other Disasters The Evolution of Disaster The Evolution of Hurricane Katrina The Mitigation Stage The Preparedness Stage The Response Stage The Recovery Stage The Complications of Hurricane Katrina Vulnerable Risk Positions Communication Breakdowns Failed Leadership Summary Conclusion Notes to Chapter 5 Chapter Six: The Stages of Risk Balance and Security Preparedness and Readiness Insurance Crisis Drills and Table Top Exercises: Imagining Dire Consequences Cross-Agency Cooperation Response First Responders and Victims Leadership in Response The Media and Response Coordination Recovery and Prevention Litigation Goverment Compensation Returning to Normal: Re-Establishing Routines Conclusion Notes to Chapter 6 Chapter Seven: Concluding Thoughts Becoming Secure: What Have We Learned? Establishing Security Practical Steps to Security Principle 1. Choise Principle 2. Decision-Making Principle 3. Cooperation Principle 4. Planning Principle 5. Institutional Learning Principle 6. Communication Concluding Thoughts Note to Chapter 7 References Suggested Readings Index About the Authors
Rotten Apples or Bad Harvest? What We Are Measuring When We Are Measuring Abuse

Internet security and technology policy research regularly uses technical indicators of abuse to identify culprits and to tailor mitigation strategies. As a major obstacle, current inferences from abuse data that aim to characterize providers with poor security practices often use a naive normalization of abuse (abuse counts divided by network size) and do not take into account other inherent or structural properties of providers. Even the size estimates are subject to measurement errors relating to attribution, aggregation, and various sources of heterogeneity. More precise indicators are costly to measure at Internet scale. We address these issues for the case of hosting providers with a statistical model of the abuse data generation process, using phishing sites in hosting networks as a case study. We decompose error sources and then estimate key parameters of the model, controlling for heterogeneity in size and business model. We find that 84% of the variation in abuse counts across 45,358 hosting providers can be explained with structural factors alone. Informed by the fitted model, we systematically select and enrich a subset of 105 homogeneous “statistical twins” with additional explanatory variables, unreasonable to collect for all hosting providers. We find that abuse is positively associated with the popularity of websites hosted and with the prevalence of popular content management systems. Moreover, hosting providers who charge higher prices (after controlling for level differences between countries) witness less abuse. These structural factors together explain a further 77% of the remaining variation. This calls into question premature inferences from raw abuse indicators about the security efforts of actors, and suggests the adoption of similar analysis frameworks in all domains where network measurement aims at informing technology policy.
TouchPivot: Blending WIMP & Post-WIMP Interfaces for Data Exploration on Tablet Devices

Recent advancements in tablet technology pose a great opportunity for information visualization to expand its horizons beyond desktops. In this paper, we present TouchPivot, a novel interface that assists visual data exploration on tablet devices. With novices in mind, TouchPivot supports data transformations, such as pivoting and filtering, with simple pen and touch interactions, and facilitates understanding of the transformations through tight coupling between a data table and visualization. We bring in WIMP interfaces to TouchPivot, leveraging their familiarity and accessibility to novices. We report on a user study conducted to compare TouchPivot with two commercial interfaces, Tableau and Microsoft Excel's PivotTable. Our results show that novices not only answered data-driven questions faster, but also created a larger number of meaningful charts during freeform exploration with TouchPivot than others. Finally, we discuss the main hurdles novices encountered during our study and possible remedies for them.
Preparing Mainstream Teachers for Multilingual Classrooms.

Increasingly, mainstream teachers rather than specialist language teachers (English as a Second Language, bilingual teachers) are expected to work with English language learners (ELLs) in their classrooms. This reality has drawn attention to the quality and content of the teacher preparation for this group of ELL teachers. Situated within this framework, this article problematizes an acceptance of mainstream classrooms as English-only, monolingual learning environments in mainstream teacher preparation. While English is the dominant medium of instruction in mainstream classrooms, a monolingual approach is problematic as it fails to draw attention to the role that ELLs’ native language resources play in learning.The article thus advocates for ensuring that mainstream teachers embrace and know how to engage in bilingual practices, broadly defined.
Coordination Between Manufacturer and Retailer in Multi-Channel Setting

The developments in e-commerce and logistics technologies have motivated manufacturers to establish a new channel for retailing directly. We consider the setting that a manufacturer operates an online store in addition to the existing retail channel. There are two segments of customers, the lower-end customers need only physical products and visit retailer's store, while the high-end customers who need physical products and also need value added service will place orders via the internet. Manufacturer sells all the products to retailer at the wholesale price and informs the retailer to deliver the products to customers once receiving orders, namely retailer shares logistics service with manufacturer. In the setting that the manufacturer and the retailer are all risk neutral, we discuss the channel coordination through pricing strategies.
Dimensionality reduction for denial of service detection problems using RBFNN output sensitivity

In this paper, we have presented a feature importance ranking methodology based on the stochastic radial basis function neural network output sensitivity measure and have shown, for the 10% training set of the DARPA network intrusion detection data set prepared by MIT Lincoln Labs, that 33 out of 41 features (more than 80% dimensionality reduction) can be removed without causing great harm to the classification accuracy of denial of service (DoS) attacks and normal packets (false positives rise from 0.7% to 0.93%). The reduced feature subset leads to more generalized and less complex model for classifying DoS and normal. Exploratory discussions on the relevancy of the selected features and the DoS attack types are presented.
Robot Defense: Using the Java Instructional Game Engine in the Artificial Intelligence Classroom

In this paper, we examine Robot Defense, a computer game that serves as a pedagogical platform for students to explore methods typically covered in an Introductory Artificial Intelligence course. Robot Defense is the synergistic outcome of two NSF funded Course, Curriculum, and Laboratory Improvement (CCLI) projects and was first presented in (Wallace, Russell, & Markov 2008). The primary contribution of this paper is to discuss the implementation of the Robot Defense platform and the outcome of its first use in the classroom.
FPGA implementation of a FA-1 mechanoreceptor model for efficient representation of tactile features

Spatiotemporal spike patterns from a population of mechanoreceptors provide a concise representation of tactile stimuli that facilitates rapid sensory processing in the brain. Efficient models of mechanoreceptors are needed for the adoption of spike-based processing for robotic tactile sensing applications. This paper presents a biomimetic model of the fast-adapting type 1 (FA-1) mechanoreceptor, implemented on a field-programmable-gate-array (FPGA). The simplicity of this model enables its realization on large arrays of sensing elements while operating with sub-millisecond temporal precision required to capture deformation patterns. We illustrate this capability by interfacing with a 4096 element tactile sensor array with a 5.2 kHz sampling rate. Through physical experiments, we demonstrate the discrimination of force magnitude and local curvature during transient mechanical contact, using spike patterns obtained from the model. The approach has the potential to deliver responsive full-body tactile sensing in robotic and prosthetic applications.
In Vivo Venous Assessment of Red Blood Cell Aggregate Sizes in Diabetic Patients with a Quantitative Cellular Ultrasound Imaging Method: Proof of Concept

Background Diabetic patients present higher level of red blood cell (RBC) aggregation contributing to the development of vascular complications. While it has been suggested that this hematology/rheology parameter could bring additional prognostic information for the management of those patients, RBC aggregation screening is not included as a clinical practice. Most medical centers are not equipped to measure properly this parameter, although sedimentation tests can bring some indication. Here, we aimed at evaluating the feasibility of using ultrasound to assess in-vivo hyper-aggregation in type 2 diabetic patients. Research design and methods Seventeen diabetic patients and 15 control subjects underwent ultrasound measurements of RBC aggregation in both cephalic and great saphenous veins. Non-invasive in-vivo ultrasound measurements were performed using a newly developed cellular imaging technique, the structure factor size and attenuation estimator (SFSAE). Comparisons with an ex-vivo gold standard rheometry technique were done, along with measurements of pro-aggregating plasma molecule concentrations. Results In-vivo RBC aggregation was significantly higher in diabetic patients compared with controls for cephalic vein measurements, while a trend (p = 0.055) was noticed in the great saphenous vein. SFSAE measurements were correlated with gold standard in-vitro measures, fibrinogen and C-reactive protein plasma concentrations. Conclusion RBC aggregation can be measured in-vivo in diabetic patients using ultrasound. Prospective studies are needed to determine whether the SFSAE method could help clinicians in the early management of vascular complications in this patient population.
BILATERAL COUNTERPARTY RISK UNDER FUNDING CONSTRAINTS—PART I: PRICING

This and the follow‐up paper deal with the valuation and hedging of bilateral counterparty risk on over‐the‐counter derivatives. Our study is done in a multiple‐curve setup reflecting the various funding constraints (or costs) involved, allowing one to investigate the question of interaction between bilateral counterparty risk and funding. The first task is to define a suitable notion of no arbitrage price in the presence of various funding costs. This is the object of this paper, where we develop an “additive, multiple curve” extension of the classical “multiplicative (discounted), one curve” risk‐neutral pricing approach. We derive the dynamic hedging interpretation of such an “additive risk‐neutral” price, starting by consistency with pricing by replication in the case of a complete market. This is illustrated by a completely solved example building over previous work by Burgard and Kjaer.
Contactless Power Transfer System for Electric Vehicle Battery Charger

A contactless power transfer system is desirable for the recharging of electric vehicles (EVs). Transformers with single-sided windings have been popular; however, transformers with double-sided windings are expected to be more compact and lightweight. A contactless power transfer system for EVs must have high efficiency, a large air gap, good tolerance to misalignment and be compact and lightweight. A novel transformer was developed using series and parallel capacitors with rectangular cores and double-sided windings to satisfy these criteria, and its characteristics are described. An output power of 1.5 kW and efficiency of 95% was achieved in the normal position. The characteristics of the system when a charge control circuit and lead acid batteries are connected to the secondary winding are also presented Copyright Form of EVS25.
Skin peptides in Xenopus laevis: morphological requirements for precursor processing in developing and regenerating granular skin glands

The biosynthesis of the peptides caerulein and PGLa in granular skin glands of Xenopus laevis proceeds through a pathway that involves discrete morphological rearrangements of the entire secretory compartment. Immunocytochemical localization of these peptides during gland development indicates that biosynthetic precursors are synthesized in intact secretory cells, whereas posttranslational processing requires morphological reorganization to a vacuolated stage. The bulk of the processed secretory material is then stored in vacuolae- derived storage granules. In the mature gland, storage granules are still formed at a low level. However, in this case processing takes place in a distinct cytoplasmic structure, the multicored body, which we suggest to be functionally equivalent to vacuolae. When granular glands regenerate after having lost all their storage granules upon strong stimuli, another morphological pathway is used. 2 wk after gland depletion, secretory cells become arranged in a monolayer that covers the luminal surface of the gland. Storage granules are formed continuously within these intact secretory cells. Here, precursor processing does not require a vacuolated stage as in newly generated glands but occurs in multicored bodies. Most storage granules seem to be formed in the third week of regeneration. The high biosynthetic activity is also reflected by the high activity of the putative processing enzyme dipeptidyl aminopeptidase during this period of regeneration.
Inhibitory effect of blocking TGF-β/Smad signal on injury-induced fibrosis of corneal endothelium

Purpose To understand the role of TGF-β related signals in the repair of a corneal endothelium defect and also to evaluate the therapeutic effect of Smad7 gene transfer on injury induced fibrosis of the corneal endothelium in rats. Methods (1) Japanese albino rabbits (n=108) were used. Blocks of central cornea (4×4 mm) were prepared. After partially scraping the endothelium to produce a defect, the blocks were organ cultured for 24 h in the presence of either exogenous growth factors, transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)-neutralizing antibody, or inhibitors of each TGF-β related signal. Endothelium repair was assayed under light microscopy. (2) Adult Wistar rats (n=62) were then used. Smad7 expressing adenoviral vector (Smad7-Ad) or non-functioning control vector (Cre-Ad) was administered to the anterior chamber of an eye. The cornea was burned with topical 1 N NaOH (10 μl) three days later. After specific intervals, the eye was histologically observed. Results (1) The endothelial layer that elongated toward the defect lacked proliferation after 24 h in organ culture. Endogenous TGF-β was required for endothelium defect repair. Inhibition of p38 and Erk but not c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) and ALK5 signal (Smad) retarded such cell spreading. (2) Adenoviral Smad7 overexpression suppressed fibrogenic reaction of the endothelium of an alkali-burned cornea as evaluated by immunohistochemistry for phospho-Smad2, collagen I, and α-smooth muscle actin, a marker for endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EnMT), and by electron microscopy. Conclusions Inhibition of Smad and JNK signals do not affect corneal endothelium defect repair. Inhibition of Smad suppresses fibrogenic reaction via EnMT of corneal endothelium in vivo.
The Relationship between Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate and Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the leading cause of visual impairment and blindness in working-aged people. Several studies have suggested that glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was correlated with DR. This is a hospital-based study and the aim of it was to examine the relationship between the GFR and DR in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We used CKD-EPI equation to estimate GFR and SPSS 19.0 and EmpowerStats software to assess their relationship. Among the 1613 participants (aged 54.75 ± 12.19 years), 550 (34.1%) patients suffered from DR. The multivariate analysis revealed that the risk factors for DR include age (P < 0.001, OR = 0.940), duration of diabetes (P < 0.001, OR = 1.163), hemoglobin A1c (P = 0.007, OR = 1.224), systolic blood pressure (P < 0.001, OR = 1.032), diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.007, OR = 0.953), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (P = 0.024, OR = 3.884), and eGFR (P = 0.010, OR = 0.973). Through stratified analysis and saturation effect analysis, our data suggests that eGFR of 99.4 mL/min or lower might imply the early stage of DR in diabetic patients. Thus, the evaluation of eGFR has clinical significance for the early diagnosis of DR.
Leasing cost optimizations for networks with on-demand leased lines

Introducing automated connection control and user network interfaces in transport networks enables other network operators (bandwidth distributors) with no own transport infrastructure to build up a network with dynamically leased lines adapted to their current demand. To achieve minimal line leasing costs this paper presents new methods for a leasing price model, that consists of a line setup fee and a fee per leasing time. Analytical calculations for a single link and simulations for an example network demonstrate that with optimized line holding times and intelligent routing rules the leasing costs can be reduced significantly.
Cerebral Synchrony Assessment: A General Review on Cerebral Signals' Synchronization Estimation Concepts and Methods

The human brain is ultimately responsible for all thoughts and movements that the body produces. This allows humans to successfully interact with their environment. If the brain is not functioning properly many abilities of human can be damaged. The goal of cerebral signal analysis is to learn about brain function. The idea that distinct areas of the brain are responsible for specific tasks, the functional segregation, is a key aspect of brain function. Functional integration is an important feature of brain function, it is the concordance of multiple segregated brain areas to produce a unified response. There is an amplified feedback mechanism in the brain called reentry which requires specific timing relations. This specific timing requires neurons within an assembly to synchronize their firing rates. This has led to increased interest and use of phase variables, particularly their synchronization, to measure connectivity in cerebral signals. Herein, we propose a comprehensive review on concepts and methods previously presented for assessing cerebral synchrony, with focus on phase synchronization, as a tool for brain connectivity evaluation.
The many faces of estrogen signaling

Estrogens have long been known as important regulators of the female reproductive functions; however, our understanding of the role estrogens play in the human body has changed significantly over the past years. It is now commonly accepted that estrogens and androgens have important functions in both female and male physiology and pathology. This is in part due to the local synthesis and action of estrogens that broadens the role of estrogen signaling beyond that of the endocrine system. Furthermore, there are several different mechanisms through which the three estrogen receptors (ERs), ERα, ERβ and G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1) are able to regulate target gene transcription. ERα and ERβ are mostly associated with the direct and indirect genomic signaling pathways that result in target gene expression. Membrane-bound GPER1 is on the other hand responsible for the rapid non-genomic actions of estrogens that activate various protein-kinase cascades. Estrogen signaling is also tightly connected with another important regulatory entity, i.e. epigenetic mechanisms. Posttranslational histone modifications, microRNAs (miRNAs) and DNA methylation have been shown to influence gene expression of ERs as well as being regulated by estrogen signaling. Moreover, several coregulators of estrogen signaling also exhibit chromatin-modifying activities further underlining the importance of epigenetic mechanisms in estrogen signaling. This review wishes to highlight the newer aspects of estrogen signaling that exceed its classical endocrine regulatory role, especially emphasizing its tight intertwinement with epigenetic mechanisms.
Information-theoretic framework for unsupervised activity classification

This article presents a mathematical framework based on information theory to compare multivariate sensory streams. Central to this approach is the notion of configuration: a set of distances between information sources, statistically evaluated for a given time span. As information distances capture simultaneously effects of physical closeness, intermodality, functional relationship and external couplings, a configuration can be interpreted as a signature for specific patterns of activity. This provides ways for comparing activity sequences by viewing them as points in an activity space. Results of experiments with an autonomous robot illustrate how this framework can be used to perform unsupervised activity classification.