Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
X-Ray Spectral Diagnostics of Gamma-Ray Burst Environments

Recently, detection of discrete features in the X-ray afterglow spectra of GRB 970508 and GRB 970828 was reported. The most natural interpretation of these features is that they are redshifted Fe K emission complexes. The identification of the line emission mechanism has drastic implications for the inferred mass of radiating material and hence the nature of the burst site. X-ray spectroscopy provides a direct observational constraint on these properties of gamma-ray bursters. We briefly discuss how these constraints arise in the context of an application to the spectrum of GRB 970508.
Efficiently Hiding Sensitive Itemsets with Transaction Deletion Based on Genetic Algorithms

Data mining is used to mine meaningful and useful information or knowledge from a very large database. Some secure or private information can be discovered by data mining techniques, thus resulting in an inherent risk of threats to privacy. Privacy-preserving data mining (PPDM) has thus arisen in recent years to sanitize the original database for hiding sensitive information, which can be concerned as an NP-hard problem in sanitization process. In this paper, a compact prelarge GA-based (cpGA2DT) algorithm to delete transactions for hiding sensitive itemsets is thus proposed. It solves the limitations of the evolutionary process by adopting both the compact GA-based (cGA) mechanism and the prelarge concept. A flexible fitness function with three adjustable weights is thus designed to find the appropriate transactions to be deleted in order to hide sensitive itemsets with minimal side effects of hiding failure, missing cost, and artificial cost. Experiments are conducted to show the performance of the proposed cpGA2DT algorithm compared to the simple GA-based (sGA2DT) algorithm and the greedy approach in terms of execution time and three side effects.
Analysis and optimization of tendinous actuation for biomorphically designed robotic systems

We present a general framework for modeling a class of mechanical systems for robotic manipulation, consisting of articulated limbs with redundant tendinous actuation and unilateral constraints. Such systems, that include biomorphically designed devices, are regarded as a collection of rigid bodies, inter-acting through connections that model both joints and contacts with virtual springs. Methods previously developed for the analysis of force distribution in multiple whole-limb manipulation are generalized to this broader class of mechanisms, and are shown to provide a basis for the control of co-contraction and internal forces that guarantee proper operation of the system. In particular, in the presence of constraints such as those due to limited friction between surfaces or object fragility, the choice of tendon tensions is crucial to the success of manipulation. An algorithm is described that allows to evaluate efficiently set-points for the control of tendon actuators that “optimally” (in a sense to be described) comply with the given constraints.
Precision Velocity Fields in Spiral Galaxies. I. Noncircular Motions and rms Noise in Disks

Investigation of the symmetry of the major- and minor-axis rotation curves reveals strong evidence of nonconcentric gas orbits with the maximum center shift of ~300 pc. Comparisons between kinematic and photometric structure (e.g., position angles, inclinations, centers) show considerable noise on small scales. Although large-scale averages are in agreement, this noise is a matter of some concern in the application of the Tully-Fisher method to disk galaxies. Moreover, cases of significant misalignment in position angle between the inner and outer disks are seen in two of the sample galaxies and may indicate the transition between luminous and dark-matter-dominated regions (i.e., where the maximum-disk hypothesis begins to fail). The kinematic disk models are used to find the residual velocity fields, and typical residuals are found to be 10-15 km s-1 over regions 0.5-1.5 kpc in diameter. Correlations are shown to exist between the residual velocity fields and both the Hα intensity and the velocity dispersion images. This suggests that kinematic feedback to the gas from star formation is an important source of noncircular motion. However, the relative quiescence of the large-scale velocity field indicates that the effect does not cause a significant deviation from circular symmetry, kinematically indicating that star formation is not a hidden parameter in the Tully-Fisher relation. Finally, the residual velocity fields are examined for signs of noncircular orbits by looking for azimuthal angular harmonics that would be present if disk galaxies are embedded in a triaxial dark matter potential. For our sample we find the ellipticity of the gas orbits to be ≲0.08, which implies the potential is relatively round. This is consistent with disks being maximal.
Small GTPases Rac and Rho in the Maintenance of Dendritic Spines and Branches in Hippocampal Pyramidal Neurons

The shape of dendritic trees and the density of dendritic spines can undergo significant changes during the life of a neuron. We report here the function of the small GTPases Rac and Rho in the maintenance of dendritic structures. Maturing pyramidal neurons in rat hippocampal slice culture were biolistically transfected with dominant GTPase mutants. We found that expression of dominant-negative Rac1 results in a progressive elimination of dendritic spines, whereas hyperactivation of RhoA causes a drastic simplification of dendritic branch patterns that is dependent on the activity of a downstream kinase ROCK. Our results suggest that Rac and Rho play distinct functions in regulating dendritic spines and branches and are vital for the maintenance and reorganization of dendritic structures in maturing neurons.
Selecting Graph Cut Solutions via Global Graph Similarity

Graph cut is a common way of clustering nodes on similarity graphs. As a clustering method, it does not give a unique solution under usually used loss functions. We specifically show the problem in similarity graph-based clustering setting that the resulting clusters might be even disconnected. This is counter-intuitive as one wish to have good clustering solutions in the sense that each cluster is well connected and the clusters are balanced. The key property of good clustering solutions is that the resulting graphs (after clustering) share large components with the original ones. We wish to detect this case by deriving a graph similarity measure that shows high similarity values to the original graph for good clustering solutions. The similarity measure considers global connectivities of graphs by treating graphs as distributions in (potentially different) Euclidean spaces. The global graph comparison is then turned into distribution comparison. Simulation shows that the similarity measure could consistently distinguish different qualities of clustering solution beyond what could be done with the usually used loss functions of clustering algorithms.
A single-channel noise reduction MVDR filter

Most existing approaches for single-channel noise reduction in the frequency domain via the short-time Fourier transform (STFT) assume that consecutive time-frames are uncorrelated with each other. As a result, algorithms based on this assumption do not, obviously, take the interframe correlation into account. In this paper, we propose a framework that considers this interframe correlation. An important consequence in including this useful information, is that now it is possible to derive a (single-channel) minimum variance distortionless response (MVDR) filter for noise reduction. The experimental study shows impressive results.
The use of reflection in medical education: AMEE Guide No. 44

Reflection is a metacognitive process that creates a greater understanding of both the self and the situation so that future actions can be informed by this understanding. Self-regulated and lifelong learning have reflection as an essential aspect, and it is also required to develop both a therapeutic relationship and professional expertise. There are a variety of educational approaches in undergraduate, postgraduate and continuing medical education that can be used to facilitate reflection, from text based reflective journals and critical incident reports to the creative use of digital media and storytelling. The choice of approach varies with the intended outcomes, but it should also be determined by the user since everyone has a preferred style. Guided reflection, with supportive challenge from a mentor or facilitator, is important so that underlying assumptions can be challenged and new perspectives considered. Feedback also has an important role to enhance reflection. There is little research evidence to suggest that reflection improves quality of care but the process of care can be enhanced.
Using Defect Patterns to Uncover Opportunities for Improvement

Although no one is happy to find defects in their software, defects are introduced and removed continually during software engineering processes, and it is practically necessary to acknowledge, record, and analyze those defects to make progress toward higher standards of quality. The Orthogonal Defect Classification (ODC) methodology, first introduced by Ram Chillarege and his colleagues at IBM [Chil92, Bhan94], provides one approach to analyzing defects. The ODC methodology has been adapted and extended for use within Bellcore, and a web based tool set, called the Efficient Defect Analyzer (EDA), has been developed to support ODC use on a large scale. This paper outlines how EDA has been successfully applied, potential pitfalls, and some possible future directions.
Intracranial chondrosarcoma: review of the literature and report of 15 cases

The available data in the literature (177 cases), two current clinical patients, and cases which occurred in The Netherlands (13) were reviewed concerning the clinical presentation, pathological features, radiological data, and treatment options of chondrosarcoma of the cranial base. The mean age of patients was 37 years, the male/female ratio 1: 1.1. The most frequent complaints were diplopia with oculomotor disorders (51%), headache (31%), and decreased hearing, dizziness, and tinnitus with statoacusticus dysfunction (21%). The mean duration of symptoms before diagnosis was 27 months. The chondrosarcomas were located in the petrosal bone in 37% (47 cases), in the occipital bone and clivus in 23% (30 cases), in the sphenoïd bone in 20% (25 cases) and to a lesser extent in frontal, ethmoïdal, and parietal bones (14%). In 6% (eight cases) the primary location was in dural tissue. Radiological examinations showed bone destruction and variable calcification (CT), involvement of neuronal and vascular structures (MRI), and mostly hypovascularity on angiography. On histological examination 51% of tumours were classified as grade I, 11% grade II, 30% mesenchymal, and 8% myxoïd. The mesenchymal type was the most malignant as illustrated by a strong tendency to intradural and cerebral growth and possibly occurrence in younger age groups. The treatment of choice until recently was surgery because of the critical location and local aggressive nature. Regrowth of tumour after surgery occurred in 53% of the patients (average after 32 months). Charged particle irradiation gave a five year survival of 83–94% and a local control rate of 78%-91%. Both in surgery and radiotherapy there is treatment related morbidity and mortality that should be considered when offering these therapies. Recent promising results imply that charged particle radiotherapy, in combination with surgery, may be the therapeutical choice of the future.
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MDS Poset-Codes Satisfying the Asymptotic Gilbert–Varshamov Bound in Hamming Weights

We prove that MDS linear poset-codes satisfy Gilbert-Varshamov bound for their Hamming weights asymptotically. We also construct MDS linear poset-codes on arbitrary poset-metric spaces by using the Dilworth's chain decomposition theorem and results about the Hermite interpolation problem over a finite field. We prove that there exist linear poset-codes with large weights for both poset-metrics and Hamming metrics, as well.
Dielectric relaxation phenomena of ultrafine BaTiO3

This paper investigated the dielectric relaxation phenomena on ultrafine BaTiO3. The ultrafine BaTiO3 particles were prepared by hydrothermal method with a size ranging from 100 nm to 260 nm. The precursors used in the preparation were Ba(OH)2·8H2O powder and TiO2 powder. Temperature dependence of dielectric constant at various frequencies was experimentally investigated. The dielectric relaxation phenomena was successfully observed by studying the temperature spectra of dielectric properties that the dielectric peak as a function of temperature Tm is no longer the same, it shifts to the lower temperature with an increase of the frequency. It was also observed that the dielectric constant decreases with an increase of average particle size. Some possible reasons for the dielectric relaxation phenomena on ultrafine BaTiO3 were discussed in this study.
Analysis and solution for Multi-band orthogonal frequency-Division Multiplexing ultra Wide band System in Real Environment for Vehicle to Infrastructure Application

Many researches in the world deal with driving on the road to ensure optimum safety. In this context, several telecommunication technologies are often used to connect the vehicles via continuous wireless communication with the infrastructure, exchange data and information relevant to increase overall road safety and enable cooperative traffic management. These systems are not reliable for all situations and the difficulties encountered by the drivers. We have been proposed the Multi-band Orthogonal Frequency- Division Multiplexing system based on Ultra Wide Band (MB-OFDM UWB) as a good candidate to insure a Vehicle to Infrastructure (V2I) communication with high data rate and good performances in terms of Bit Error Rate (BER). However, Inter-Carrier Interference (ICI) resulting from Doppler shift phenomenon degrades MB-OFDM UWB system performance and raises a significant challenge in wireless mobile environment. In this study, V2I communication based on the MB-OFDM UWB technology is studied and analyzed for 200 Mbit/s, over multipath channel using the IEEE802.15. 4a channel model with Doppler shift for different speeds. The theoretical formulas of BER in Additive White Gaussian Noise (AWGN) and Rayleigh channels are calculated and are compared to the simulation results in MB-OFDM UWB system. The comparison shows that simulation results are consistent with theoretical formulas. The degradation in the performance of the proposed system solution becomes worse with a high speed 250 Km h-1, so its necessary to use new receiver solutions. The Extended Kalman Filer (EKF) and the Maximum Likelihood (ML) estimation with ZF equalizer have been proposed and have been compared to Zero-Forcing (ZF) in order to combat the ICI effect. For high value of speed (250 Km h-1), the EKF method performs better than the ML method, better than the ZF equalizer and offers much improvement in performance in term of BER.
Parallel Discrete Event Simulation: A Survey

ParallelDiscreteEventSimulation:ASurveyVo on-YeeWen-JingHsuCentreforAdvancedInformationSystems,SASNanyangTechnologicalUniversitNanyangAvenue,Singap ore639798vyvee@singnet.com. sg,hsu@ntu.edu. sgAbstractInthepastdecade,parallelpro cessinghasgainedverysigni cantadvancesinallfrontsoftheory,systems,andapplications.However,despiteyearsofresearchitsapparentsigni cance,parallelsimulationremainsama joroutstandingchallenge.Inparticular,therehasb eennosystemwhichfacilitatesanearlypredictionoftheprogramp erformance.Inthisrep ort,wedo cumentasurveyofthema jorexistingapproachesforparallelsimulationasellasacomparativestudyoftwoleadingcomputationalmo dels,namely,Valiant'sBSPandLeiserson'sCilk,whichareusefulformalmo delsforp erformancepredictionofsimulationprograms.1Intro ductionSimulationhasb eenheavilyreliedup onbycomputerscientists,physicists,circuitdesigners,mathematicians,militaryforce,andevenvideogamedesigners[LK91, Fis95, Chi92]. Fordecades,simulationistshaveb eendevisingsimulationmo delsforlargeandcomplexsystemstofacilitatep erformanceanalysis,studyofsystemb ehavior,optimization,andessentiallyallasp ectsofthesystemsundersimulation.Thesp eedofsequentialpro cessorsincreaseseveryyear,whilethecomplexitsystemsweareinterestedsimulatingalsoincreaseseveryyear.To da,someofthesystemswewishtoulatearesocomplexthattheyapp ear\intractable"toeventhefastestunipro cessorwehavbuiltdate.Furthermore,thep owerofapro cessorwilleventuallyreachanupp erb oundimp osedbylimitsphysicalorld(suchasthesp eedoflightand nitesizeamolecule). Giventhis,p erformingsimulationinparallelisacknowledgedasthemostpromisingsolutiontosimulatingthose\intractable"systems.Unfortunately,despiteovertwdecadesofresearch,thetechnologyparallelsimulationhasnotsig-ni cantlyimpressedthegeneralsimulationcommunity[Fuj93b]. Considerablee ortsandexp ertisearestillrequiredtodevelopecientsimulationprograms.Thereareno\goldenrules"thataprogrammercanfollowtoguaranteeanecientprogram.Generallysp eaking,parallelsimulationisveryhard[Fuj90a]. Nevertheless,the eldofparallelsimulationdo esdeservefutureresearchandcannotb esimplyignored.Presently,b ecauseofitsimp ortance,thereismuchactiveresearctofurtherdeveloptheparallelsimulationtechnology.Inthispap erwegivanoverviewoftheexistingparallelsimulationtechnology.W rstcoersomebasicconceptsinsimulation,followedbyvariousaysofdecomp osingulationmo del.Wesurveythema jorexistingapproachesfortheparalleldiscrete-eventsimulation.Twoma jormo delsofcomputation1
Factored MDPs for detecting topics of user sessions

Recommender systems aim to capture interests of users to provide tailored recommendations. User interests are however often unique and depend on many unobservable factors including a user's mood and the local weather. We take a contextual session-based approach and propose a sequential framework using factored Markov decision processes (fMDPs) to detect the user's goal (the topic) of a session. We show that an independence assumption on the attributes of items leads to a set of independent models that can be optimised efficiently. Our approach results in interpretable topics that can be effectively turned into recommendations. Empirical results on a real world click log from a large e-commerce company exhibit highly accurate topic prediction rates of about 90%. Translating our approach into a topic-driven recommender system outperforms several baseline competitors.
Visual Syntax Analysis for Calligraphic Interfaces

This paper presents an approach to analyse sketches of user interfaces by means of Visual Languages. To this end we use a shape recognizer, CALI [Fonseca00], and build on the ideas presented in JavaSketchIt[Caetano02] where the parsing is done by recognizing pairs of sketched symbols using a restricted visual syntax. The present paper presents our ongoing work on Visual Language Analysis to expand the possibilities afforded by JavaSkec-thIt in a more flexible manner. Our approach provides more flexibility with the ability to describe an increasing number of visual symbols, and making use of more complex productions which wouldn’t be so simple to handle with previous pattern recognition techniques employed in JavaSketchIt, such as recursive productions and ambiguous arrangements involving more than two symbols.
Clinicians’ predictions of patient response to psychotropic medications

Clinicians prescribe a medication when they assume that there is a reasonable probability of its success. There are many studies on the predictive value of social or clinical information, but these studies do not include the prognosis made by psychiatrists before treatment. These studies indicate that a small to moderate proportion of the total variance of outcome can be predicted from social or clinical information. It is peculiar that there are very few studies on the accuracy of psychiatrists’ “bets” about the effects of psychotropic drugs when they use the clinical characteristics of patients as predictors, considering the practical relevance of predicting the outcome of a psychiatric treatment. The absence of studies on the accuracy of clinicians’ bets or predictions in psychiatry is unfortunate.
Assessment of appreciation of humor: Studies with the 3 WD humor test

Unspecified Posted at the Zurich Open Repository and Archive, University of Zurich ZORA URL: http://doi.org/10.5167/uzh-77946 Originally published at: Ruch, Willibald (1992). Assessment of appreciation of humor: Studies with the 3 WD humor test. Advances in Personality Assessment, 9:27-75.
Covering moves and Kirby calculus

We show that simple coverings of B^4 branched over ribbon surfaces up to certain local ribbon moves bijectively represent orientable 4-dimensional 2-handlebodies up to handle sliding and addition/deletion of cancelling handles. As a consequence, we obtain an equivalence theorem for simple coverings of S^3 branched over links, in terms of local moves. This result generalizes to coverings of any degree results by the second author and Apostolakis, concerning respectively the case of degree 3 and 4. We also provide an extension of our equivalence theorem to possibly non-simple coverings of S^3 branched over embedded graphs. This work represents the first part of our study of 4-dimensional 2-handlebodies. In the second part (arXiv:math.GT/0612806), we factor such bijective correspondence between simple coverings of B^4 branched over ribbon surfaces and orientable 4-dimensional 2-handlebodies through a map onto the closed morphisms in a universal braided category freely generated by a Hopf algebra object.
Worst Case Voltage Drops in Power and GroundBuses of CMOS VLSI

Buses of CMOS VLSI Circuits Harish Kriplani, Farid Najm and Ibrahim Hajj Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Abstract: This paper summarizes the main developments of our on going study at University of Illinois on the maximum voltage drop estimation in power and ground buses of CMOS VLSI circuits. Voltage drops occurring in the supply lines depend upon the speci c input patterns applied to the circuit and it is prohibitively expensive to enumerate all possible input patterns. Our proposed solution methodology consists of two parts. In the rst part, maximum current waveforms at every contact point in the circuit are estimated by the linear time, pattern independent algorithm, called iMax. The algorithm is extremely e cient in time as well as space, and produces good results for most circuits. The accuracy of the results obtained from the iMax algorithm can be further improved by resolving the signal correlations that exist inside a circuit. In the second part of the voltage drop estimation process, we iteratively resolve these correlations by a novel partial input enumeration (PIE) technique and thus improve the bounds on the maximum voltage drop. We establish with extensive experimental results that these algorithms are extremely e cient and are applicable to VLSI circuits.