Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Unsupervised signal segmentation based on temporal spectral clustering

This paper presents an approach for applying spectral clustering to time series data. We define a novel similarity measure based on euclidean distance and temporal proximity between vectors. This metric is useful for conditioning matrices needed to perform spectral clustering, and its application leads to the detection of abrupt changes in a sequence of vectors. It defines a temporal segmentation of the signal. When the input to the algorithm is a speech signal, we further process the segments and achieve their labeling in one of three phonetic classes: silence, consonant or vowel. When the input signal is a video stream, the algorithm detects scene changes in the sequence of images. Our results are compared against classic unsupervised and supervised techniques, and evaluated with the phonetically labeled multi-language corpus OGI-MLTS and the video database of the french video indexing campaign ARGOS.
Efficacy of Phosphatidylinositol-3 Kinase Inhibitors in a Primary Mouse Model of Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma

Recent advances in sarcoma genomics have identified novel mutations in the PI3K pathway in human sarcomas. Here, we use a mouse model of primary soft-tissue sarcoma for preclinical testing of doxorubicin and inhibitors of the PI3K pathway: BKM120 (PI3K inhibitor) and BEZ235 (a dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor). Doxorubicin-treated tumors (n = 15) showed a partial response rate of 6.6%, just as the majority of human sarcomas do not respond to doxorubicin. Treatment with BKM120 elicited a partial response in 50% of tumors (n = 10), which was also seen in combination with doxorubicin (n = 10). Additionally, BKM120 treatment produced a robust delay in tumor growth kinetics. BEZ235-treated tumors (n = 9) showed a complete response rate of 11.1%. Combining BEZ235 with doxorubicin (n = 10) increased the complete response rate to 50% (P = 0.035). These studies demonstrate that PI3K pathway inhibition is a viable and attractive target for soft-tissue sarcomas.
Dualizing Complex of a Toric Face Ring

A toric face ring, which generalizes both Stanley-Reisner rings and affine semigroup rings, is studied by Bruns, Römer and their coauthors recently. In this paper, under the “normality” assumption, we describe a dualizing complex of a toric face ring R in a very concise way. Since R is not a graded ring in general, the proof is not straightforward. We also develop the square-free module theory over R, and show that the Cohen-Macaulay, Buchsbaum, and Gorenstein* properties of R are topological properties of its associated cell complex.
Helicopter Parenting and Cell-Phone Contact between Parents and Children in College

ABSTRACT Using relational dialectics theory as the organizing framework, this study examined helicopter parenting and cell-phone contact among college students (N = 529). Participants had more cell-phone conflict, engaged in more avoidance, and had more rules about cell-phone contact with high- compared to low- and, in some cases, moderate-helicopter mothers. Participants with high-helicopter fathers reported more father-initiated contact and cell-phone conflict than moderate- or low-helicopter fathers. Those with moderate- and high-helicopter fathers reported more rules about cell-phone contact but also higher closeness and relational satisfaction than those with low-helicopter fathers. Overall, participants differed on autonomy–connection issues with their mothers and fathers.
Quantization of 2+1 Gravity on the Torus

We use the polygon representation of 2+1--dimensional gravity to explicitly carry out the canonical quantization of a universe with the topology of a torus. The mapping-class-invariant wave function for a quantum ''big bounce'', is reminiscent of the interference patterns of linear gratings. We consider the ``problem of time'' of quantum gravity: for one choice of internal time the universe recovers a semiclassical interpretation after the bounce, with a wave packet centered at a single geometry; for another choice of internal time, the quantum solutions involve interference between macroscopically distinct universes.
In Vivo Expression and Regulation of Elk-1, a Target of the Extracellular-Regulated Kinase Signaling Pathway, in the Adult Rat Brain

The transcription factor Elk-1, a nuclear target of extracellular-regulated kinases (ERKs), plays a pivotal role in immediate early gene induction by external stimuli. Notably, the degree of phosphorylation of Elk-1 is tightly correlated with the level of activation of transcription of c-fos by proliferative signals. No data yet indicate the role of Elk-1 in the adult brainin vivo. To address this question, we have analyzed in the present work (1) Elk-1 mRNA and protein expression in the adult rat brain, and (2) the regulation of Elk-1 (i.e., its phosphorylation state) in an in vivo model of immediate early gene (IEG) induction: an electrical stimulation of the cerebral cortex leading to c-fos and zif268 mRNA induction in the striatum. Using in situ hybridization, we show that Elk-1 mRNA is expressed in various brain structures of adult rat, and that this expression is exclusively neuronal. We demonstrate by immunocytochemistry using various specific Elk-1 antisera that the protein is not only nuclear (as shown previously in transiently transfected cell lines) but is also present in soma, dendrites, and axon terminals. On electrical stimulation of the glutamatergic corticostriatal pathway, we show a strict spatiotemporal correspondence among ERK activation, Elk-1 phosphorylation, and IEG mRNA induction. Furthermore, both activated proteins, analyzed by immunocytochemistry, are found in cytosolic and nuclear comparments of neuronal cells in the activated area. Our data suggest that the ERK signaling pathway plays an important role in regulating genes controlled by serum response element sites via phosphorylation of Elk-1 in vivo.
Dual Digital Watermarking Algorithm for Image Based on Fractional Fourier Transform

In this paper, a dual digital watermarking embedding and detecting algorithm for image is presented, which uses the robust watermark and fragile watermark embed in the fractional Fourier transform (FRFT) domain of the image, and the watermark position and the transform order are used as the encryption keys. The experiment results show that the embedded watermark is perceptually invisible and robust to various image processing operations. Most importantly, the tampered place can be identified accurately.
Secure and Privacy-Preserving Data Services in the Cloud: A Data Centric View

Cloud computing becomes a successful paradigm for data computing and storage. Increasing concerns about data security and privacy in the cloud, however, have emerged. Ensuring security and privacy for data management and query processing in the cloud is critical for better and broader uses of the cloud. This tutorial covers some common cloud security and privacy threats and the relevant research, while focusing on the works that protect data confidentiality and query access privacy for sensitive data being stored and queried in the cloud. We provide a comprehensive study of state-of-the-art schemes and techniques for protecting data confidentiality and access privacy, which make different tradeoffs in the multidimensional space of security, privacy, functionality and performance.
Approximation algorithms for the capacitated traveling salesman problem with pickups and deliveries

We consider the Capacitated Traveling Salesman Problem with Pickups and Deliv- eries (CTSPPD). This problem is characterized by a set of n pickup points and a set of n delivery points. A single product is available at the pickup points which must be brought to the delivery points. A vehicle of limited capacity is available to perform this task. The problem is to determine the tour the vehicle should follow so that the total distance traveled is minimized, each load at a pickup point is picked up, each delivery point receives its shipment and the vehicle capacity is not violated. We present two polynomial-time approximation algorithms for this problem and analyze their worst-case bounds. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 46: 654 - 670, 1999
Autonomous dynamic balance of an electrical bicycle using variable structure under-actuated control

In an electric bicycle, two strategies are taken up to stabilize the running motion of a bicycle. One is the control of its center of gravity (CG), and the other is the control of its steering angle of handle. In general, the control of the CG is used a pendulum. In addition, the motion of a bicycle often possesses a lean angle with respect to vertical direction. In this situation, the proposed system contains three outputs: steering angle, lean angle, and pendulum angle, these will affect the dynamic balance of an electrical bicycle. The proposed control generating the handle torque and pendulum toque is called variable structure under-actuated control (VSUAC). The motivation of using the VSUAC is that the system uncertainties of a bicycle are often huge due to different ground conditions and a gust of wind. Merely use an ordinary proportional-derivative-integral (PID) control or other linear controls often can not have good robust performance. Finally, the compared simulations for the electrical bicycle among ordinary PID control, modified proportional-derivative control (MPDC), and VSUAC confirm the usefulness of our proposed control.
EFFICIENT ATTACKS ON HOMOPHONIC SUBSTITUTION CIPHERS

Efficient Attacks On Homophonic Substitution Ciphers by Amrapali Dhavare Substitution ciphers are one of the earliest types of ciphers. Examples of classic substitution ciphers include the well-known simple substitution and the less well-known homophonic substitution. Although simple substitution ciphers are indeed simple both in terms of their use and attacks; the homophonic substitution ciphers are far more challenging to break. Even with modern computing technology, homophonic substitution ciphers remain a significant challenge. This project focuses on designing, implementing, and testing an efficient attack on homophonic substitution ciphers. We use an iterative approach that generalizes the fastest known attack on simple substitution ciphers and also employs a heuristic search technique for improved efficiency. We test our algorithm on a wide variety of homophonic substitution ciphers. Finally, we apply our technique to the “Zodiac 340” cipher, which is an unsolved ciphertext created in the 1970s by the infamous Zodiac killer.
Fingerprint verification based on fixed length square finger code

In this paper a novel method is presented for generation of a fixed length square finger code of size 16times16times4. It uses a set of Gabor filters for extracting fingerprint features from gray scale image cropped in the size of 128times128 pixels using its core point as the center. Experimental results show that the recognition rate based on the Euclidean distance between the two corresponding Gabor filter finger codes have a verification accuracy of 93%. Since, the fingerprint matching is based on the Euclidean distance between two corresponding finger codes, it is extremely fast. This reveals that by setting the parameters to appropriate values, the finger code generated is more efficient and suitable than conventional methods for a small-scale fingerprint recognition system
Generation of Solution and Surface Gradients Using Microfluidic Systems

This paper describes a simple, versatile method of generating gradients in composition in solution or on surfaces using microfluidic systems. This method is based on controlled diffusive mixing of species in solutions that are flowing laminarly, at low Reynolds number, inside a network of microchannels. We demonstrate the use of this procedure to generate (1) gradients in the compositions of solutions, measured directly by colorimetric assays and (2) gradients in topography of the surfaces produced by generating concentration gradients of etching reagents, and then using these gradients to etch profiles into the substrate. The lateral dimensions of the gradients examined here, which went from 350 to 900 μm, are determined by the width of the microchannels. Gradients of different size, resolution, and shape have been generated using this method. The shape of the gradients can be changed continuously (dynamic gradients) by varying the relative flow velocities of the input streams of fluids. The method is ex.
Dynamical Structure Functions for the Estimation of LTI Networks with Limited Information

This research explores the role and representation of network structure for LTI Systems. We demonstrate that transfer functions contain no structural information without more assumptions being made about the system, assumptions that we believe are unreasonable when dealing with truly com- plex systems. We then introduce Dynamical Structure Functions as an alternative, graphical-model based representation of LTI systems that contain both dynamical and structural information of the system. We use Dynamical Structure to prove necessary and sufficient conditions for estimating structure from dat a, and demonstrate, for example, the danger of attempting to use steady-state information to estimate network structure. I. I NTRODUCTION One of the fundamental issues for modeling, identifying, and controlling complex networked systems is inferring system structure from input-output data. Structure is ofte n the key for understanding a variety of complex systems because it enables a decomposition of the complete system into an interconnection of subsystems. When analysis of the subsystems is comparatively simple, and the interconnec- tion structure is well understood, then the behavior of the complex system can be deduced from an understanding of its components. Moreover, exploiting structural information can tremendously reduce the conservatism of robust solutions designed to compensate for system uncertainty. This impact on complexity and uncertainty makes structural information extremely important in the analysis of complex networked systems.
Interaction of Heavy Metal Ions with Carbon and Iron Based Particles

Due to the rapid development of industry and associated production of toxic waste, especially heavy metals, there is a great interest in creating and upgrading new sorption materials to remove these pollutants from the environment. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of different carbon forms (graphene, expanded carbon, multi-wall nanotubes) and paramagnetic particles (Fe2O3) for adsorption of cadmium(II), lead(II), and copper(II) on its surface, with different interaction time from 1 min to 24 h. The main attention is paid to the detection of these metals using differential pulse voltammetry. Based on the obtained results, graphene and Fe2O3 are found to be good candidates for removal of heavy metals from the environment.
A novel and stable approach to anatomical structure morphing for enhanced intraoperative 3D visualization

The use of three dimensional models in planning and navigating computer assisted surgeries is now well established. These models provide intuitive visualization to the surgeons contributing to significantly better surgical outcomes. Models obtained from specifically acquired CT scans have the disadvantage that they induce high radiation dose to the patient. In this paper we propose a novel and stable method to construct a patient-specific model that provides an appropriate intra-operative 3D visualization without the need for a pre or intra-operative imaging. Patient specific data consists of digitized landmarks and surface points that are obtained intra-operatively. The 3D model is reconstructed by fitting a statistical deformable model to the minimal sparse digitized data. The statistical model is constructed using Principal Component Analysis from training objects. Our morphing scheme efficiently and accurately computes a Mahalanobis distance weighted least square fit of the deformable model to the 3D data model by solving a linear equation system. Relaxing the Mahalanobis distance term as additional points are incorporated enables our method to handle small and large sets of digitized points efficiently. Our novel incorporation of M-estimator based weighting of the digitized points enables us to effectively reject outliers and compute stable models. Normalization of the input model data and the digitized points makes our method size invariant and hence applicable directly to any anatomical shape. The method also allows incorporation of non-spatial data such as patient height and weight. The predominant applications are hip and knee surgeries.
Embedding Impact in Engaged Research: Developing Socially Useful Knowledge Through Dialogical Sensemaking

This paper explores how we can embed impact in research to generate socially useful knowledge. Our contribution lies in proposing a form of engaged research that draws upon situated knowledge and encompasses dialogical sensemaking as a way of making experience sensible in collaborative researcher−practitioner conversations. We draw attention to the intricacies of doing socially useful research and illustrate how five conversational resources can be used within dialogical sensemaking through an example of a research project in which impact and relevance were embedded and where researchers and practitioners worked together to resolve an important social and organizational issue.
Adaptation of 6LoWPAN to Ship Area Sensor Networks with wired Ethernet backbone and performance analysis

In this paper, we proposed SASN (Ship Area Sensor Networks) model which is integration of wired backbone network (Ethernet) and wireless sensor networks (IPv6 over Low-power Wireless Personal Area Networks, 6LoWPAN). The proposed integrated network model has some limitation compared to sensor networks which is composed of only wired networks because of poor RF environment of inner ship area. However, if SASN model is adapted to ship, it helps to monitor the status of the work circumstance and various equipment more efficiently than only wired sensor networks because of independency from network line. We described characteristics of 6LoWPAN in detail and check the suitability of SASN model to ship based on characteristics of 6LoWPAN. In addition, we did performance analysis through simulation. From simulation result, we showed that proposed SASN model which is composed of Ethernet backbone and 6LoWPAN is possible to be adapted to ship.
Effect of eccentric training on mitochondrial function and oxidative stress in the skeletal muscle of rats

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of eccentric training on the activity of mitochondrial respiratory chain enzymes, oxidative stress, muscle damage, and inflammation of skeletal muscle. Eighteen male mice (CF1) weighing 30-35 g were randomly divided into 3 groups (N = 6): untrained, trained eccentric running (16°; TER), and trained running (0°) (TR), and were submitted to an 8-week training program. TER increased muscle oxidative capacity (succinate dehydrogenase and complexes I and II) in a manner similar to TR, and TER did not decrease oxidative damage (xylenol and creatine phosphate) but increased antioxidant enzyme activity (superoxide dismutase and catalase) similar to TR. Muscle damage (creatine kinase) and inflammation (myeloperoxidase) were not reduced by TER. In conclusion, we suggest that TER improves mitochondrial function but does not reduce oxidative stress, muscle damage, or inflammation induced by eccentric contractions.
Multiple, heart-cross-reactive epitopes of streptococcal M proteins

We present evidence that a highly purified pepsin extract of type 5 streptococcal M protein (pep M5) contains at least three epitopes that are cross-reactive with sarcolemmal membrane proteins of human myocardium. The tissue-cross-reactive determinants of pep M5 are also partially shared with pep M6 and pep M19. Three rabbits immunized with a single 300 micrograms dose of pep M5 developed significant levels of heart-cross-reactive antibodies, as determined by indirect immunofluorescence tests. All three sera also contained antibodies that cross-reacted with pep M6 and pep M19. The heart tissue--specific antibodies that were eluted from sarcolemmal membranes opsonized types 5, 6, and 19 streptococci, indicating that they were directed against protective M protein epitopes on the surface of virulent organisms. Immunofluorescence inhibition tests, using purified M proteins as soluble inhibitors of heart-cross-reactive antibodies, revealed the number and M protein serotype distribution of the tissue-cross-reactive epitopes. Immunoblot analyses demonstrated the sarcolemmal membrane proteins containing the various cross-reactive antigenic determinants.
A Neural Network Model in Credit Risk Assessment Based on New Risk Measurement Criterion

For a long time credit risk assessment has been regarded as one kind of classification issue of pattern identification, which could not fully meet the requirements of credit risk decision-making. In view of the connotation of credit risk, it is put forward that the probability that credit capital becomes bad debt and the relativity of credit risk should be taken into consideration to assess credit risk. By taking credit risk degree as system output, credit risk assessing and forecasting model based on artificial neural network is established so as to transform assessing mode in effect and provide credit decision-making with more efficient tools and support.
A Self-Consistent Study of Triaxial Black Hole Nuclei

We construct models of triaxial galactic nuclei containing central black holes using the method of orbital superposition and then verify their stability by advancing N-body realizations of the models forward in time. We assume a power-law form for the stellar density, ρ ∝ r-γ, with γ = 1 and 2; these values correspond approximately to the nuclear density profiles of bright and faint galaxies, respectively. Equidensity surfaces are ellipsoids with fixed axis ratios. The central black hole is represented by a Newtonian point mass. We consider three triaxial shapes for each value of γ: almost prolate, almost oblate, and maximally triaxial. Two kinds of orbital solution are attempted for each mass model: the first including only regular orbits, the second including chaotic orbits as well. We find that stable configurations exist, for both values of γ, in the maximally triaxial and nearly oblate cases; however, steady state solutions in the nearly prolate geometry could not be found. A large fraction of the mass, of order 50% or more, could be assigned to the chaotic orbits without inducing evolution. Our results demonstrate that triaxiality may persist even within the sphere of influence of the central black hole and that chaotic orbits may constitute an important building block of galactic nuclei.