Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Phoenix: A MapReduce implementation with new enhancements

Lately, the large increasing in data amount results in compound and large data-sets that caused the appearance of “Big Data” concept which gained the attention of industrial organizations as well as academic communities. Big data APIs that need large memory can benefit from Phoenix MapReduce implementation for shared-memory machines, instead of large, distributed clusters of computers. This paper evaluates the design and the prototype of Phoenix, Phoenix performance, as well as Phoenix limitations. This paper also suggests some new approaches to get over of some Phoenix limitation and enhance its performance on large-scale shared memory. The major contribution of this work is finding new approaches that get over the <;key, value> pairs limitation in phoenix framework using hash tables with B+Trees and get over the collisions problem of hash tables.
Falling in love with a Companion

In 1984, in her groundbreaking book The Second Self, Sherry Turkle made us aware of the tendency of some people to develop relationships with their computers. Turkle described one such example, an MIT computer hacker who she called Anthony, who had “tried out” having girlfriends but preferred to relate to computers. I believe that the developments in AI since then have demonstrated a progression in human-computer relationships to the point where we can now say with confidence that, in the foreseeable future, significant numbers of Anthony’s and their female counterparts will be falling in love with software Companions. This position paper summarizes my arguments.
Long-Term Results of Cell-Free Biodegradable Scaffolds for In Situ Tissue-Engineering Vasculature: In a Canine Inferior Vena Cava Model

We have developed a new biodegradable scaffold that does not require any cell seeding to create an in-situ tissue-engineering vasculature (iTEV). Animal experiments were conducted to test its characteristics and long-term efficacy. An 8-mm tubular biodegradable scaffold, consisting of polyglycolide knitted fibers and an L-lactide and ε-caprolactone copolymer sponge with outer glycolide and ε-caprolactone copolymer monofilament reinforcement, was implanted into the inferior vena cava (IVC) of 13 canines. All the animals remained alive without any major complications until euthanasia. The utility of the iTEV was evaluated from 1 to 24 months postoperatively. The elastic modulus of the iTEV determined by an intravascular ultrasound imaging system was about 90% of the native IVC after 1 month. Angiography of the iTEV after 2 years showed a well-formed vasculature without marked stenosis or thrombosis with a mean pressure gradient of 0.51±0.19 mmHg. The length of the iTEV at 2 years had increased by 0.48±0.15 cm compared with the length of the original scaffold (2–3 cm). Histological examinations revealed a well-formed vessel-like vasculature without calcification. Biochemical analyses showed no significant differences in the hydroxyproline, elastin, and calcium contents compared with the native IVC. We concluded that the findings shown above provide direct evidence that the new scaffold can be useful for cell-free tissue-engineering of vasculature. The long-term results revealed that the iTEV was of good quality and had adapted its shape to the needs of the living body. Therefore, this scaffold would be applicable for pediatric cardiovascular surgery involving biocompatible materials.
Formulation and Characterization of Bioadhesive Buccal Drug Delivery System of Testosterone

The objective of present study was to formulate and evaluate mucoadhesive buccal drug delivery system of testosterone. The system was prepared by solvent evaporation method using natural biodegradable mucoadhesive film forming chitosan polymer. The formulations were then characterized for various physicochemical parameters viz, thickness, folding endurance, surface pH, drug content, swelling index, moisture absorption and in vitro drug release study. The in vitro drug release from different formulations was studied using USP XXIV six station dissolution test apparatus type1. The results of various physicochemical properties were in the range of acceptable limit. The drug release profile from these films followed nonfickian diffusion as the value of diffusion release exponent (η) is in the range of 0.712 to 0.858.
NHE Isoform Switching and KChIP2 Upregulation in Aging Porcine Atria

Aging increases the risk of cardiac pathologies including atrial fibrillation and can alter myocardial responsiveness to therapeutic agents. Here, seeking molecular correlates of myocardial aging processes, we performed global “whole transcript” analysis of 25,388 genes using 572,667 probes to compare the left atrial (LA) transcriptomes of young adult (9 months old) versus elderly (10 years old) female swine. NHE2 (>9-fold) and KChIP2 (3.8-fold) exhibited the highest aging-related expression increases. Real-time qPCR recapitulated these findings and indicated a 50% decrease in LA NHE1, a twofold increase in right atrial KChIP2, but no significant changes for these transcripts in either ventricle. Notably, even in young adult pigs, NHE2 transcript was detectable and enriched in the atria over the ventricles. NHE1, the recognized cardiac isoform of the sodium hydrogen exchanger, has proven a compelling but clinically disappointing therapeutic target with respect to reperfusion arrhythmias. Our data challenge the dogma that NHE1 is alone in the myocardium and suggest that NHE2 could negatively impact the pharmacological responsiveness of atrial tissue to NHE1-specific inhibitors. KChIP2 is a cytosolic β subunit essential for generation of I to. The increased KChIP2 expression we observed with aging substantially shortened in silico atrial myocyte action potential duration, a predisposing factor in atrial fibrillation. Consistent with this, 4/5 elderly swine sustained pacing-induced AF≥15 s after cessation of stimulation, compared to 0/3 young swine. Our findings uncover potential molecular bases for increased arrhythmogenicity and reduced pharmacologic efficacy in the aging atrium, in a large animal model of human cardiac physiology.
Evaluating the Radar Cross Section of Maritime Radar Reflectors Using Computational Electromagnetics

− This paper presents results from calculating the radar cross section (RCS) of two maritime radar reflectors using the method of moments. The Echomaster 152, although smaller in size, produces a higher maximum RCS than the Echomax 230 that includes three layers of corner reflectors. The Echomaster 152 also has deeper nulls in the RCS pattern, which means it is less detectable at those angles.
The paradox of public acceptance of bike sharing in Gothenburg

Bike sharing is one of the most promising urban planning interventions to facilitate an all-necessary transition towards a more sustainable transport paradigm. Regardless of the fact that hundreds of schemes run in more than 50 countries worldwide, bike sharing is still moderately investigated by research. This paper reports on a primarily quantitative study of 558 responses that was set to frame attitudes reflecting public acceptance towards the rapidly expanding bike-sharing scheme in Gothenburg (Styr & Stall), in an attempt to identify the ‘formula for success’. The respondents generally believed that Styr & Stall is a pro-environmental, inexpensive and healthy transport mode, which complements the city’s public transport services and promotes a more human-friendly identity for Gothenburg. Even the respondents that self-reported a small (or no) likelihood to use bike sharing were positive towards the scheme. This means that they recognise that bike sharing has a significant pro-social potential and is not a system favouring a particular road-user segment over others that might not be interested or able to use it. The fact that the majority of the respondents do not use the scheme and yet its popularity is still vast indicates that there is much potential for more use in real terms.
The Parkinson’s Disease-Associated Protein Kinase LRRK2 Modulates Notch Signaling through the Endosomal Pathway

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) is a key molecule in the pathogenesis of familial and idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (PD). We have identified two novel LRRK2-associated proteins, a HECT-type ubiquitin ligase, HERC2, and an adaptor-like protein with six repeated Neuralized domains, NEURL4. LRRK2 binds to NEURL4 and HERC2 via the LRRK2 Ras of complex proteins (ROC) domain and NEURL4, respectively. HERC2 and NEURL4 link LRRK2 to the cellular vesicle transport pathway and Notch signaling, through which the LRRK2 complex promotes the recycling of the Notch ligand Delta-like 1 (Dll1)/Delta (Dl) through the modulation of endosomal trafficking. This process negatively regulates Notch signaling through cis-inhibition by stabilizing Dll1/Dl, which accelerates neural stem cell differentiation and modulates the function and survival of differentiated dopaminergic neurons. These effects are strengthened by the R1441G ROC domain-mutant of LRRK2. These findings suggest that the alteration of Notch signaling in mature neurons is a component of PD etiology linked to LRRK2.
EMG Control for a Robot Hand Used as a Prosthesis

Multifingered computer controlled robot hands have been built by researchers to recreate human functionality. Our research is focused on the use of the Belgrade/USC robot hand as a prototype prosthesis for below-elbow amputees. A method has been developed that combines EMG and computer signals to control the phases of prehension. Simulation work presented here, based on pilot data, uses surface EMG from the forearm to provide signals for the control of the hand.
Nature of Driven Cavity Flow at High-Re and Benchmark Solutions on Fine Grid Mesh

The numerical solutions of 2-D steady incompressible flow in a driven cavity are presented. The Navier-Stokes equations in streamfunction and vorticity variables are solved simply with Successive Over Relaxation (SOR) method. Using a very fine grid mesh with 1025 × 1025 points, the steady driven cavity flow is solved for Re ≤ 20,000. For accuracy, the iterations are carried out on the streamfunction and vorticity variables until the steady streamfunction and vorticity equations are satisfied with a residual that were less than 10−10. Interesting features of the flow are presented in detail. The nature of the driven cavity flow at high Reynolds numbers is discussed in detail in terms of physical and mathematical and also numerical aspects, in an attempt to address the controversy on this flow problem at high Reynolds numbers.
A MAXIMUM LIKELIHOOD APPROACH TO ESTIMATION OF A CLASS OF THE HEATH-JARROW-MORTON MODEL

Research on the Heath-Jarrow-Morton (1992) term structure models so far has focused on the class having time-deterministic instantaneous forward rate volatility. In this case the forward rate process is Markovian, even if the spot rate process is not. However, this Markovian feature can only be used under the historical measure, involving two unsatisfactory assumptions: one involving the market price of risk, usually made purely for reasons of mathematical tractability, the other involving the use of futures yields as a proxy for the instantaneous forward rate, which may result in estimation bias. This paper circumvents both of these assumptions. First, the bias is quantified and shown to be non-negligible. Then futures contracts are treated as derivative instruments written on forward rates to derive the full information maximum likelihood estimator for observable futures prices, using both time series and cross-sectional data, without the need to assume and estimate any functional forms for the market price of interest rate risk. The approach here relies upon the likelihood transformation method of Duan (1994). The method is applied to the estimation of a humped forward rate volatility model for Eurodollar futures series traded on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange.
Realization of All-Optical Discrete Cosine and Sine Transforms Using MMI Structures on an SOI platform

The Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) and Discrete Sine Transform (DST) have found applications in digital signal, image and video processing and particularly in transform coding systems for data compression and decompression. Multimode interference (MMI) in optical silicon on insulator (SOI) waveguides is attractive for realizing all-optical DCT and DST transforms as they have the advantages of low loss, ultra-compact size and excellent fabrication tolerances. In this paper, a novel approach to realize all-optical type I, II, III and IV DCT and DST based on multimode interference structures on silicon on insulator platform is proposed. Based on the transfer matrix method, the analytical expressions describing the characteristics of the MMI structures are derived. Designs of the proposed devices are then verified and optimized using 2D and 3D BPM simulations.
Mixed-sex in sport for development: a pragmatic and symbolic device. The case of touch rugby for forced migrants in Rome

Abstract Following the success of its all-male refugee football team, the Italian voluntary-based association Liberi Nantes created a touch rugby team as a pilot project aimed at involving female forced migrants. Initially set up as an all-woman activity to provide a less intimidating environment, the touch rugby group was later turned into a mixed-sex team. While potentially enabling transformative experiences and generating opportunities for challenging gender stereotypes, the mixed-gender character of the touch rugby provision also served broader objectives within Liberi Nantes’ mission. Focusing on the accounts of the activists and volunteers involved in the project, this paper investigates the practical and symbolic reasons for the strategic use of mixed-gender sport and its implications. Notably, by analysing the development of the touch rugby team, we highlight how its mixed-gender nature contributes to nourishing a wider rhetoric of social mixing and celebration of diversity, in which Liberi Nantes’ identity is embedded.
Approaches to Using Rules as a Composition Method

This paper will give an overview of the author's experience in using rule-based computing in music composition. After discussing both imposed and voluntary constraints in existing music, a very short description of a rule-based computer system will be given. The concept of musical dimensions will be discussed, and used to illustrate the complexity of implementing musical structures into a computer system. A central section in the article will focus on different approaches to the design of musical rules. This will be followed by a discussion of the relationship between pitch and rhythm, and the role of motifs and gestures. Finally, two examples from one of the author's compositions will illustrate how rules can be used to formalize music.
The Economics of Network Neutrality

Pricing of Internet access has been characterized by two properties. Parties are directly billed only by the Internet Service Provider (ISP) through which they connect to the Internet and the ISP charges them on the basis of the amount of information transmitted rather than its content. These properties define a regime known as “network neutrality. ” In 2005, some large ISPs proposed that application and content providers directly pay them additional fees for accessing the ISPs’ residential clients, as well as differential fees for prioritizing certain content. We analyze the private and social incentives to introduce such fees when the network is congested and more traffic implies delays. We find that network neutrality is welfare superior to bandwidth subdivision (granting or selling priority service). We also consider the welfare properties of the various regimes that have been proposed as alternatives to network neutrality. In particular, we show that the benefit of a zero-price “slow lane” is a function of the bandwidth the regulator mandates be allocated it. Extending the analysis to consider ISPs’ incentives to invest in more bandwidth, we show that, under general conditions, their incentives are greatest when they can price discriminate; this investment incentive offsets to some degree the allocative distortion created by the introduction of price discrimination. A priori, it is ambiguous whether the offset is sufficient to justify departing from network neutrality.
Comparatively open : statutory information disclosure for consultation and bargaining in Germany, France and the UK

Information provision is an important part of all mechanisms which give employees voice at work. This paper considers the law on information disclosure for joint consultation and collective bargaining in three countries, Germany, France, and the UK, chosen for their distinctive legal and institutional arrangements, within a common European Union context. It is argued that there is coherence between the law and institutions in Germany; in France, despite extensive legal support for information provision, the law and institutions complement one another less; in the UK, there are contradictory approaches and new dilemmas confronting the traditional system. Although European Directives harmonise statutory minima, there are few signs of common disclosure practice emerging across the three countries.
Are mixed tropical tree plantations more resistant to drought than monocultures

Tropical tree plantations usually consist of a single exotic fast growing species, but recent research describes positive effects on ecosystem functions from mixed tropical tree plantations. In this review, we present the current knowledge of drought resistance of tropical mixed species plantations and summarize preliminary evidence from a tree biodiversity experiment in Panama. Converting mono-specific stands into mixed ones may improve stand stability and might reduce increasing abiotic and biotic disturbances due to climate change. However, little is known about the extent to which tropical tree species or tropical tree communities can resist increasing disturbances in the short term, e.g., water limitations due to increasing dry season intensity or length, or about their resilience after such disturbances and their capacity to adapt to changing conditions in the long term. Studies relating drought resistance and resilience to community diversity are missing. Further, we highlight the urgent need for a multifactorial manipulative throughfall reduction experiment in tropical environments. The outcome of such studies would greatly assist the forestry sector in tropical regions to maintain highly productive and ecologically sound forest plantations in a changing climate.
Dual-microphone based binary mask estimation for robust speaker verification

Missing feature theory (MFT) has shown great potential for robust speaker recognition in noisy environments. Accurate estimation of binary mask is crucial in MFT-based speaker recognition. This paper addresses the speaker verification problem using MFT in a practical scenario: the location of target speaker is fixed while the locations of noise interferences are unknown. Specifically, we propose a dual-microphone semi-blind approach to estimate the binary mask. During system initialization, a spatial location model for the target is trained precisely. Then a spatial model for corrupted speech is obtained on-line by model adaptation. Finally, the binary mask is estimated by likelihood comparison. Moreover, we propose a reliable frame selection method to further focus on the reliable speech frames for missing data speaker recognition. Experimental results demonstrate that our proposed approach achieves substantial improvements in recognition performance in both white noise and speech corrupted conditions.
Fast Mode Decision Algorithm for Intra Prediction in HEVC

A fast mode decision algorithm for intra prediction is proposed to solve the problem of high computational complexity for High Efficiency Video Coding intra prediction in this paper. First, the prediction units are classified according to different sizes, by analyzing the texture complexity in different directions, 35 prediction modes are grouped to reduce the number of prediction modes in the rough mode decision process. Based on the above, both the algorithm of grouping candidate modes based on RDi and the decision algorithm based on adjacent prediction modes are applied to reduce the number of prediction modes that enter the rate distortion optimization process. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can decrease the coding time effectively while keeping the video quality unchanged.
The impact of urban wetland on the price of house: Evidence from Hangzhou Xixi wetland

This study empirically estimates the effects of wetland proximity on property values by employing the hedonic price model. A total of 3,785 market-based residential sales data between March 2009 and July 2009 were collected through the Internet and field survey. The results show that Xixi wetlands significantly influence residential property values and proximity to different types of wetlands is valued differently. The marginal implicit price of reducing the distance to the nearest wetland by 1,000 meter, evaluated at the mean house value yields a 1950 Yuan increase in house value. The marginal implicit price for open water over other types, evaluated at the mean housing prices, indicates an increase in house value of 320 Yuan.
Sampling-Based Multi-Robot Exploration

This paper presents a new approach for collaborativ e multi-robot planning issues. The main problem tha t arises from multi-robot exploration is waiting situations. We c onsider that such problem involves two or more auto nomous robots in an unknown environment. The mission objective is to explore the entire map, while trying to minimize i ts executing time. Moreover if each robot uses the same topologi cal graph, then it uses the same exploration path t hat makes waiting situations arising. To solve this problem, we propo se a new approach in this paper based on sampling i teratively maps to allow interactive multi-robot exploration. Our appr oach has been implemented in simulation and the experiments demonstrate that the overall completion time of an exp loration task can be significantly reduced by our s ampling-based method.
On the ship path-following control system design by using robust feedback linearization

The paper considers the problem of ship path-following system design based on input-output feedback linearization method combined with the robust control approach. At first, the nonlinear process model is linearized by means of partial coordinate transform and a simple system nonlinearity cancellation. Since the exact values of the model parameters are not known, the ensuing inaccuracies are taken as disturbances acting on the system. Thereby we obtain a linear system with an extra term representing the uncertainty which can be treated by using robust, H∞ optimal control techniques. The performed simulations of ship path-following process confirmed a high performance of the proposed controller despite the assumed significant errors of its parameters.