Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Social network stability in borderline personality disorder: A longitudinal analysis

ii Dedication . iv Acknowledgments.v Vita . vii List of Tables . xiii List of Figures . xiv Chapter 1: Introduction . 1 Social Support and Social Networks.2 BPD and the Interpersonal Domain . 4 Interpersonal Dysfunction in BPD . 6 Features of the Interpersonal Domain in BPD . 10 BPD and the Experience of Interpersonal Interactions . 13 Social Networks in BPD . 17 Methods for Examining Social Networks . 24 Personal social networks . 26 Current Study . 28 Chapter 2: Methods . 30 Participants . 30
Agile methods in European embedded software development organisations: a survey on the actual use and usefulness of Extreme Programming and Scrum

Press releases, scientific publications and anecdotal evidence demonstrate that organisations worldwide are adopting agile software development methods at increasing speed. Little is still known about the current usefulness of agile methods in the complex environment of the embedded software development industry. Embedded devices are already commonplace in regular households. The goal of this survey is to provide first-hand knowledge of the adoption and experience of two of the most known agile methods, namely Extreme Programming and Scrum, in a number of European organisations of embedded software known to be interested and active in experimenting with agile software development methods. The survey involved 13 industrial organisations in eight European countries and 35 individual software development projects. The focus of the questionnaire was to enquire into the level of use as well as the experienced usefulness - or expected usefulness if there was no experience available - of the two agile methods and their individual practices. The results show that the embedded industry has been able to apply agile methods in its development processes. The results also indicate that the appreciation of the agile methods and their individual practices appears to increase once adopted and applied in practice.
Optimal data recovery and forecasting with dummy long-horizon forecasts

The paper suggests a method of recovering missing values for sequences, including sequences with a multidimensional index, based on optimal approximation by processes featuring spectrum degeneracy. The problem is considered in the pathwise setting, without using probabilistic assumptions on the ensemble. The method requires to solve a closed linear equation connecting the available observations of the underlying process with the values of the approximating process with degenerate spectrum outside the observation range.Some robustness with respect to noise contamination is established for the suggested recovering algorithm. It is suggested to apply this data recovery algorithm to forecasting with a preselected dummy long-horizon forecast that helps to regularize the solution.
Gray Compensating RBF Prediction Model Based on Structural Risk

A new prediction model that combining the merits of support vector machine (SVM) and gray RBF neutral network is proposed in this paper. First apply structural risk minimization principle to optimize the modeling method of RBF neutral network, so that the radial basis centers and network weights could be acquired directly. Then use error compensator of RBF neutral network based on structural risk to compensate the predicting results of GM (1,1) model. The comparative experimental results show that this model is capable of improving the data predicting accuracy, as well as the generalization ability of neutral network.
Wireless network coding by amplify-and-forward for bi-directional traffic flows

This paper introduces and analyzes relaying techniques that increase the achievable throughput in multi-hop wireless networks by applying network coding over bi-directional traffic flows. We term each such technique as bi-directional amplification of throughput (BAT)-relaying. While network coding is normally performed by combining decoded packets, here we introduce a relaying method based on amplify-and-forward (AF), where the relay node utilizes the inherent combining of packets provided by simultaneous transmissions over a multiple access channel. Under low noise levels, AF BAT-relaying offers a superior throughput performance. The unconventionality of AF BAT relaying opens many possibilities for further research.
Active Gaze Control Improves Optic Flow-Based Segmentation and Steering

An observer traversing an environment actively relocates gaze to fixate objects. Evidence suggests that gaze is frequently directed toward the center of an object considered as target but more likely toward the edges of an object that appears as an obstacle. We suggest that this difference in gaze might be motivated by specific patterns of optic flow that are generated by either fixating the center or edge of an object. To support our suggestion we derive an analytical model that shows: Tangentially fixating the outer surface of an obstacle leads to strong flow discontinuities that can be used for flow-based segmentation. Fixation of the target center while gaze and heading are locked without head-, body-, or eye-rotations gives rise to a symmetric expansion flow with its center at the point being approached, which facilitates steering toward a target. We conclude that gaze control incorporates ecological constraints to improve the robustness of steering and collision avoidance by actively generating flows appropriate to solve the task.
Migration, family, gender, and reproductive health of Mexican-origin young women

Latina adolescents have higher adolescent birth rates than any race/ethnic group and Mexican-origin Latinas have higher birth rates than Puerto Rican and Cuban adolescents. The purpose of the dissertation is to examine how cultural constructions of gender and sexuality help explain the relationship between immigrant generation, family characteristics, and reproductive health behavior of Mexican-origin young women. I used the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) to examine how immigrant generation moderated the relationship between family structure and family socioeconomic status (SES) and the hazard of sexual initiation, the hazard of an adolescent birth, and the odds of contraceptive use at first sex among Mexican-origin adolescents. I then conducted life history interviews with 21 first and second generation Mexican-origin young women in Denver, who are currently the same ages of the Add Health participants to understand the process of migration and how migrant families shape gender. I found that two biological parents, grandparents, and older siblings were protective in reducing risky sexual and reproductive health behaviors. Parental education increased the hazard of sexual initiation in the first and second generations but reduced the hazard in the third generation. Having a mother not working as compared to having a professionally employed mother, reduced the hazard of sexual initiation and adolescent birth in the first and second generations and increased the odds of contraceptive use in all
Reject Options and Confidence Measures for kNN Classifiers

This survey summarizes proposals made in the pattern recognition literature for detecting uncertain patterns that should rather be rejected than classified by a classifier. Beyond reviewing methods applicable to distance based nearest neighbor classifiers, this article describes an interface for computing confidences, storing them with classified images and querying this information, as it is implemented in the Gamera framework for document analysis and recognition. Based on this interface, a method for detecting broken, touching, and unknown characters, as well as noise, is proposed. The method is applied to two historic prints, showing that this method works well for detecting broken and touching characters, but less reliable for identifying glyphs representing noise.
Experimental full duplex simultaneous transmission of LTE over a DWDM directly modulated RoF system

In this paper, we experimentally demonstrate the seamless integration of full duplex system frequency division duplex (FDD) long-term evolution (LTE) technology with radio over fiber (RoF) for eNodeB (eNB) coverage extension. LTE is composed of quadrature phase-shift keying (QPSK), 16-quadrature amplitude modulation (16-QAM) and 64-QAM, modulated onto orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) and single-carrier-frequency division multiplexing for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) transmissions, respectively. The RoF system is composed of dedicated directly modulated lasers for DL and UL with dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) for instantaneous connections and for Rayleigh backscattering and nonlinear interference mitigation. DL and UL signals have varying carrier frequencies and are categorized as broad frequency spacing (BFS), intermediate frequency spacing (IFS), and narrow frequency spacing (NFS). The adjacent channel leakage ratio (ACLR) for DL and UL with 64-QAM are similar for all frequency spacings while cross talk is observed for NFS. For the best case scenario for DL and UL transmissions we achieve error vector magnitude (EVM) values of ~2.30%, ~2.33%, and ~2.39% for QPSK, 16-QAM, and 64-QAM, respectively, while for the worst case scenario with a NFS EVM is increased by 0.40% for all schemes.
Characterizing the Relative Significance of a Test Smell

Test code, just like any other code we write, erodes when frequently changed. As such, refactoring, which has been shown to impact maintainability and comprehensibility, can be part of a solution to counter this erosion. We propose a metric-based heuristical approach, which allows to rank occurrences of so-called test smells (i.e. symptoms of poorly designed tests) according to their relative significance. This ranking can subsequently be used to start refactoring. Through an open-source case study, ArgoUML, we demonstrate that we are able to identify those test cases who violate unit test criteria
Error Estimates for Distributed Parameter Identification in Linear Elliptic Equations

The identiication problem of a functional coeecient in an ellip-tic equation is considered. For this purpose methods are introduced, which combine a modiied equation error and the well-known output least squares methods. Estimates of the rate of convergence for the proposed approach are proved, when the equation is discretized with the nite element method. The work is concluded with some numerical results.
Initiator-Domain-Based SLA Negotiation for Inter-domain QoS-Service Provisioning

The problem of providing quality of service (QoS) applications across multi-domain through service level agreement (SLA) negotiation is addressed in this paper. Nowadays, the IP network which can only provide best effort services can not fulfil customers' QoS requirements, and SLA contract signed between service provider and service consumer is proposed to support QoS-based service offering. Service Provider (SP) separated from Network Provider (NP) acts as an independent entity in service provisioning, and needs to negotiate SLA with NP to attain network resource, which enables SP to provide QoS guaranteed services for customers. But in the current Internet, network domains are owned by different network operators and SP and customers may locate in different domains, which makes the SLA negotiation more complicated in QoS-Service provisioning. The initiator-domain-based SLA negotiation system is proposed to meet the negotiation problem.
A Novel Passive Tag with Asymmetric Wireless Link for RFID and WSN Applications

In this paper, we present a radio-powered module with asymmetric wireless link utilizing ultra wideband radio system for RFID and wireless sensor applications. Our contribution includes using two different standards in uplink and downlink. Such as conventional RFIDs, incoming RF signal transmitted by reader is used to power the internal circuitry and receive the data. However, in upstream link, an IR-UWB transmitter is utilized. Unlike traditional RFID systems, due to great advantages of UWB communication, this tag is very robust to multi-path fading and collision problem and it is more secure against eavesdropping or jamming. The module consists of a power scavenging unit, a RF receiver, an IR-UWB transmitter, digital baseband controller, and an embedded UWB antenna are designed for integration on liquid-crystal polymer (LCP) substrate, using 0.18mum CMOS process technology.
Design Principles of a High-Speed Omni-Scannable Gaze Controller

We propose design principles of a high-speed omni-scannable gaze controller that is advantageous over previously proposed omni-scannable controllers in terms of response time. This is achieved by overcoming the narrow scanning range of the high-speed Saccade Mirror, a gaze controller that employs single-axis rotating mirrors, while maintaining its short response time. It is first shown that in order to achieve an omni-scan with single-axis rotating mirrors, the gaze controller must follow certain conditions. We then give design principles, and determine the positions and shapes through an optimization under evaluation functions and constraints. The response time is estimated by the inertia of the mirrors, and is shown to be superior to conventional commercial omni-scannable gaze controllers.
Automatic Assessment of the Speech of Young English Learners

This paper introduces some of the research behind automatic scoring of the speaking part of the Arizona English Language Learner Assessment, a large-scale test now operational for students in Arizona. Approximately 70% of the students tested are in the range 4-11 years old. We cover the methods used to assess spoken responses automatically, considering both what the student says and the way in which the student speaks. We also provide evidence for the validity of machine scores. The assessments include 10 open-ended item types. For 9 of the 10 open item types, machine scoring performed at a similar level or better than human scoring at the item-type level. At the participant level, correlation coefficients between machine overall scores and average human overall scores were: Kindergarten: 0.88; Grades 1-2: 0.90; Grades 3-5: 0.94; Grades 6-8: 0.95; Grades 9-12: 0.93. The average correlation coefficient was 0.92. We include a note on implementing a detector to catch problematic test performances.
Physicochemical Parameters in Soil and Vegetable Samples from Gongulon Agricultural Site, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

Anthropogenic activities are a leading cause of metal emission, often associated with high elevated soil and plant metal concentrations. The accumulation of heavy metals and anions in soil and vegetables in the vicinity of Gungulung agricultural site were investigated. Soil samples were collected at depths of 0-5 cm, 5-10 and 10-20 cm. Soil properties including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter, organic carbon, cation exchange capacity (CEC) and heavy metals content were determined using standard procedures. Vegetable samples (spinach, Amaranthus caudatus; carrot, Daucus carota; lettuce, Lactuca sativa; cabbage, Brassica oleracea; tomato, Lycopersicon sculenetum; waterleaf, Talinum Triangulare and onion Allium cepa were used for this research. The plant samples were prepared for heavy metals and anions determination using standard procedures. Results show that the soil metal content, conductivity and organic carbon decreased with depth, suggesting anthropogenic sources of contamination while pH, organic matter and CEC decreased with depth. The results obtained from this analysis revealed that Zn and Mn show the highest concentrations, Ni shows the lowest levels. Similarly, the results also revealed that Fe, Zn and Cu show the highest concentrations, while Pb shows the lowest levels in the whole vegetables parts studied. The leaves contained much higher concentrations of heavy metals and anions than roots and stems. The concentrations of the above parameters in the vegetable samples were higher than the FAO, WHO/EU and FAO/WHO allowed limit. The high values might be attributed to the use of wastewater from river Ngada and application of sewage sludge by farmers for the irrigation of these vegetables. The results of this study suggest that the vegetables grown in the vicinity of Gugulung agricultural site are subjected to anthropogenic activities. Thus, the high values of these metals in the vegetable samples could put the consumers of these vegetables at health risk with time due to bioaccumulation. [Journal of American Science. 2010;6(12):78-87]. (ISSN: 1545-1003).
A Novel Visual Tool to Assist Therapy Clients' Narrative and to Disclose Difficult Life Events: The Life Story Board

This article describes an innovative play board and kit called the Vidaview Life Story Board (LSB) that combines features of the genogram, eco-map, and timeline for use with therapy clients. The goal of this study was to explore and understand the experience of clients and therapists during and after therapy sessions using the LSB, with particular focus on the disclosure of difficult life events. The LSB is a visual interview tool that uses a colorful board, sets of cards, markers, and a notation system to construct a multidimensional view of a person's life situation. The board facilitates the “translation” of narrative life stories into a “life-scape representation” through a process of co-construction between the client and the therapist. Methods: The study took place in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, in 2013 and involved the staff of a counseling program in a non-profit community health center that provides services to inner city residents. Clients were mostly newcomer Canadians, First Nations, and Metis.
Propagation of errors in spatial modelling with GIS

Abstract Methods are needed for monitoring the propagation of errors when spatial models are driven by quantitative data stored in raster geographical information systems. This paper demonstrates how the standard stochastic theory of error propagation can be extended and applied to continuously differentiable arithmetic operations (quantitative models) for manipulating gridded map data. The statistical methods have been programmed using the Taylor series expansion to approximate the models. Model inputs are (a) model coefficients and their standard errors and (b) maps of continuous variables and the associated prediction errors, which can be obtained by optimal interpolation from point data. The model output is a map that is accompanied by a map of prediction errors. The relative contributions of the errors in the inputs (model coefficients, maps of individual variables) can be determined and mapped separately allowing judgments to be made about subsequent survey optimization. The methods are illustrated .
Input-output feedback linearization control of a Cascaded H-bridge multilevel inverter

This paper proposes a voltage controller for Cascaded H-bridge three-phase multilevel inverters operating in islanded mode with constant-amplitude constant-frequency output voltages. For this purpose, a non linear state-space model of the converter feeding a three-phase load via a second order LC filter is developed. Next, an input-output feedback linearization controller is designed so as to drive the output voltages to track the target references. Numerical simulations carried out on a 7 level inverter emphasize the effectiveness of the proposed model and control law. Based on feedback linearization strategy, the closed loop response of the system is stable even in case of disturbances. The transient state is extremely short and presents small overshoots.
Drinking and Driving among University Students in 22 Low, Middle Income and Emerging Economy Countries

Background: The aim of this study was investigate drinking, driving, and socio-behavioral factors among university students in low and middle income and emerging economy countries. Methods: Using anonymous questionnaires, data were collected from 18476 university students, of which 15151 (82.0%) were drivers of a car or motorcycle (41.3% men and 58.7% women), with a mean age of 20.7 years (SD=2.9), from 22 countries across Africa, Asia and Americas. Results: Overall, 17.3% reported to have been driving a car or motorcycle after having had too much to drink in the past 12 months, ranging from below 5% in Bangladesh, Indonesia and Kyrgyzstan to above 35% in China, Singapore and Thailand. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, among both men and women, earlier year of study, living in an upper middle income or high income country (OR=3.58, CI=3.00–4.27 and OR=2.95, CI=2.52–3.46), low intrinsic religiosity (OR=0.67, CI=0.54–0.83 and OR=0.34, CI=0.28–0.42), injury from motorcycle accidents (OR=4.29, CI=2.69–6.82 and OR=3.24, CI=2.26–4.63), and weak belief in the importance of not drinking (OR=1.78, CI=1.50–2.11 and OR=1.61, CI=1.37–1.88) and driving were associated with drinking and driving. Further, among men, older age (OR=1.04, CI=1.01–1.07), binge drinking (OR=1.53, CI=1.27–1.86) and illicit drug use (OR=1.22, CI=1.01–1.47), and among women, younger age (OR=0.95, CI=0.97–0.98), and a lower country BAC limit (OR=0.01, CI=0.001–0.18) was associated with drinking and driving. Conclusion: This study confirms low to high levels of drinking and driving in different cultures across Africa, Asia and the Americas. Various factors identified can be used to guide interventions to reduce drinking and driving among university students.
Security Design in Initial Public Offerings

We investigate an IPO security design problem when information asymmetries across investors lead to a winner's curse. Firms that are riskier in down markets can lower the cost of going public by using unit IPOs, in which equity and warrants are combined into a non-divisible package. Furthermore, firms that have a sizeable growth potential even in bad states of the world can fully eliminate the winner's curse problem by making the warrants callable. Our theory is consistent with the prominent use of unit IPOs and produces empirical implications that differentiate it from existing theories. Copyright 2010, Oxford University Press.
A 3GHz wideband ∑Δ fractional-N synthesizer with voltage-mode exponential CP-PFD

A 3GHz wideband ∑Δ fractional-N synthesizer with an exponential settling voltage-mode PFD is presented. The 1MHz band-width Type-I PLL loop utilizes the exponential small-signal settling characteristics of a voltage-mode NMOS (follower) LDO based PFD-CP to reduce in-band quantization noise leakage by more than 13dB without the need for a noise suppression DAC. The PLL is fabricated on a 0. 18μm CMOS process with less than 20-mA current consumption from 1.8-V power supply. The measured in-band phase noise at 100 kHz is −107dBc/Hz and out-of-band phase noise at 3 MHz is −130dBc/Hz. The PLL loop settling time for an accuracy of 0.1ppm and a frequency step of 45 MHz is less than 10μs.
Evidence for the Pareto principle in Open Source Software Activity

Numerous empirical studies analyse evolving open source software (OSS) projects, and try to estimate the activity and effort in these projects. Most of these studies, however, only focus on a limited set of artefacts, being source code and defect data. In our research, we extend the analysis by also taking into account mailing list information. The main goal of this article is to find evidence for the Pareto principle in this context, by studying how the activity of developers and users involved in OSS projects is distributed: it appears that most of the activity is carried out by a small group of people. Following the GQM paradigm, we provide evidence for this principle. We selected a range of metrics used in economy to measure inequality in distribution of wealth, and adapted these metrics to assess how OSS project activity is distributed. Regardless of whether we analyse version repositories, bug trackers, or mailing lists, and for all three projects we studied, it turns out that the distribution of activity is highly imbalanced.