Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Classification of single-trial electroencephalogram during finger movement

We present an algorithm to discriminate between the single-trial electroencephalograms (EEG) of two different finger movement tasks. The method uses a spatio-temporal analysis to classify the EEG recorded during voluntary left versus right finger movement tasks. This algorithm produced a classification accuracy of 92.1% on the data from five subjects, without requiring subject training or data selection. This technique can be employed in an EEG-based brain-computer interface due to its high recognition rate, insensitivity to noise, and simplicity in computation.
Nonlinear mixture autoregressive hidden Markov models for speech recognition

Gaussian mixture models are a very successful method for modeling the output distribution of a state in a hidden Markov model (HMM). However, this approach is limited by the assumption that the dynamics of speech features are linear and can be modeled with static features and their derivatives. In this paper, a nonlinear mixture autoregressive model is used to model state output distributions (MAR-HMM). Estimation of model parameters is extended to handle vector features. MAR-HMMs are shown to provide superior performance to comparable Gaussian mixture model-based HMMs (GMM-HMM) with lower complexity on two pilot classification tasks.
Crawling Open-Source Data for Indicators of Human Trafficking

Information available from open-source mediums such as the web and social media are increasingly being used to aid the response to emergent crimes and reinforce existing Law Enforcement Agency intelligence capability. In this paper we discuss the rationale for, and development of, a framework for crawling open-source data for information regarding, and indicators of, Human Trafficking. The three-Level model presented aims to add value to the modelling, and increase the understanding of Human Trafficking in order to facilitate the detection and analysis of indicators to ultimately increase the value and range of information available to decision makers.
Valuing the social cost of corruption using subjective well being data and the technique of vignettes

Corruption can have an effect on people's happiness and satisfaction, and therefore, can generate a social cost. However, the perceptions of corruption and satisfaction can also vary across subjects, due to socioeconomic and cultural characteristics. This article studies the differences in the perceptions of corruption and satisfaction across subjects, utilizing the technique of vignettes for the correction of the bias that follows from the differences in the response scale across individuals. The evidence comes from a sample of citizens in Spain, who are asked about their perceptions of corruption and personal satisfaction. The results show that there exists a response scale bias, both for corruption and satisfaction. These results are utilized to approximate the social cost of corruption.
Ion channels activated by light in Limulus ventral photoreceptors

The light-activated conductance of Limulus ventral photoreceptors was studied using the patch-clamp technique. Channels (40 pS) were observed whose probability of opening was greatly increased by light. In some cells the latency of channel activation was nearly the same as that of the macroscopic response, while in other cells the channel latency was much greater. Like the macroscopic conductance, channel activity was reduced by light adaptation but enhanced by the intracellular injection of the calcium chelator EGTA. The latter observation indicates that channel activation was not a secondary result of the light-induced rise in intracellular calcium. A two-microelectrode voltage-clamp method was used to measure the voltage dependence of the light-activated macroscopic conductance. It was found that this conductance is constant over a wide voltage range more negative than zero, but it increases markedly at positive voltages. The single channel currents measured over this same voltage range show that the single channel conductance is independent of voltage, but that channel gating properties are dependent on voltage. Both the mean channel open time and the opening rate increase at positive voltages. These properties change in a manner consistent with the voltage dependence of the macroscopic conductance. The broad range of similarities between the macroscopic and single channel currents supports the conclusion that the 40-pS channel that we have observed is the principal channel underlying the response to light in these photoreceptors.
Learning a language model from continuous speech

This paper presents a new approach to language model construction, learning a language model not from text, but directly from continuous speech. A phoneme lattice is created using acoustic model scores, and Bayesian techniques are used to robustly learn a language model from this noisy input. A novel sampling technique is devised that allows for the integrated learning of word boundaries and an n-gram language model with no prior linguistic knowledge. The proposed techniques were used to learn a language model directly from continuous, potentially large-vocabulary speech. This language model was able to significantly reduce the ASR phoneme error rate over a separate set of test data, and the proposed lattice processing and lexical acquisition techniques were found to be important factors in this improvement. Index Terms: language acquisition, word segmentation, Pitman-Yor language model, Bayesian learning
Use model building on discretization algorithms for discrete EDAs To work on real-valued problems

Discretization algorithms have been combined with discrete estimation of distribution algorithms (EDAs) to work on real-valued problems. Existing discretization algorithms, such as the fixed-height histogram (FHH) and the split-on-demand (SoD), utilize merely densities of selected chromosomes to build next-generation population, and therefore have limited exploration. This paper adds the concept of model building to FHH and SoD to solve these problems. The model utilizes a variety of information from selected chromosomes to improve the abilities of FHH and SoD to identify promising regions for future exploration. Specifically, a model of expected values of selected chromosomes is combined with FHH and SoD to form expected-value FHH and expected-value SoD. The expected-value-discretization algorithms outperform their original versions on an exploration test function as well as the 25 benchmark functions used in the SoD paper. This paper also introduces a model of differential-expected-value of selected chromosomes. The differential-expected-value FHH and differential-expected-value SoD outperform their expected-value versions when tested on the exploration test function and the 25 benchmark functions.
Joint user scheduling and transmit direction selection in 5G TDD dense small cell networks

This paper proposes a joint user scheduling and transmit direction selection procedure for dynamic TDD in 5G dense small cell networks, where the transmit direction (i.e. downlink (DL) or uplink (UL)) selected per small cell is dynamically optimized together with the user scheduling at every frame. We focus on the maximization of a general utility function that takes into account the DL/UL traffic asymmetries of each user and the interference conditions in the network. After relaxation of the integer variables that subsume the user scheduling and transmit direction selection, the problem is decomposed and efficiently solved in parallel at every frame. Simulation results show significant gains in DL and UL average rates for different traffic asymmetries, network densities, and user densities as compared to existing schemes for dynamic TDD.
On the topology of planar algebraic curves

We revisit the problem of computing the topology and geometry of a real algebraic plane curve. The topology is of prime interest but geometric information, such as the position of singular and critical points, is also relevant. A challenge is to compute efficiently this information for the given coordinate system even if the curve is not in generic position. Previous methods based on the cylindrical algebraic decomposition (CAD) use sub-resultant sequences and computations with polynomials with algebraic coefficients. A novelty of our approach is to replace these tools by Gröbner basis computations and isolation with rational univariate representations. This has the advantage of avoiding computations with polynomials with algebraic coefficients, even in non-generic positions. Our algorithm isolates critical points in boxes and computes a decomposition of the plane by rectangular boxes. This decomposition also induces a new approach for computing an arrangement of polylines isotopic to the input curve. We also present an analysis of the complexity of our algorithm. An implementation of our algorithm demonstrates its efficiency, in particular on high-degree non-generic curves.
Automatic generation of context-dependent pronunciations

We describe experiments in modelling the dynamics of fluent speech in which word pronunciations are modified by neighbouring context. Based on all-phone decoding of large volumes of training data, we automatically derive new word pronunciation, and context-dependent transformation rules for phone sequences. In contrast to existing techniques, the rules can be applied even to words not in the training set, and across word boundaries, thus modelling context-dependent behavior. We use the technique on the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) training data and apply the new pronunciations and rules to WSJ and broadcast news tests. The changes correct a significant portion of the errors they could potentially correct. But the transformations introduce a comparable number of new errors, indicating that perhaps stronger constraints on the application of such rules are needed.
Realizing a temporal complex-object data model

Support for temporal data continues to be a requirement posed by many applications such as VLSI design and CAD, but also in conventional applications like banking and sales. Furthermore, the strong demand for complex-object support is known as an inherent fact in design applications, and also emerges for advance “conventional” applications. Thus, new advanced database management systems should include both features, i.e. should support temporal complex-objects. In this paper, we present such a temporal complex-object data model. The central notion of our temporal complex-object data model is a time slice, representing one state of a complex object. We explain the mapping of time slices onto the complex objects supported by the MAD model (which we use for an example of a non-temporal complex-object data model) as well as the transformation process of operations on temporal complex-objects into MAD model operations. Thereby, the basic properties of the MAD model are a prerequisite for our approach. For example, time slices can only be directly stored, if non-disjunct (i.e. over-lapping) complex objects are easily handled in the underlying complex-object data model.
Effects of age, gender, and education on semantic fluency for living and artifact categories

Background: Evidence exists that many individuals with neurological damage exhibit a “category effect”, typically naming more artifact than living items. However, there is a paucity of research exploring the existence of a category effect with neurologically intact individuals. The investigations performed to date have focused on a limited number of categories, and most authors have not controlled for possible age, gender, and/or education‐related effects among groups. Aims: The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of age, gender, and education on semantic fluency for four living and four artifact categories. Methods & Procedures: A total of 60 individuals recruited from four groups participated in the study: younger males, younger females, older males, and older females. Each group of 15 individuals was matched for years of education. Participants were asked to name as many items as possible in four living categories: birds, four‐footed animals, fruits, and vegetables as well as four artifact categories: tools, kitchen utensils, furniture, and clothing. Outcomes & Results: There was no significant difference between living and artifact domains. With regard to specific categories, females named significantly more fruit and furniture items, while males named more tools. Younger females with fewer than 16 years of education named the most fruits, and participants with at least 16 years of education had an advantage for clothing. Older males and younger females named more four‐footed animals than did their gender‐matched peers. Conclusions: In contrast to previous reports, this investigation failed to identify naming differences between living and artifact domains, which might partly be related to dissimilar task demands (i.e., semantic fluency versus confrontation naming). However, several gender‐based differences observed for specific categories were consistent with previous research. Moreover, the use of a broader range of categories exposed additional differences in naming performance.
Broad neuroprotective profile of nicotinamide in different mouse models of MPTP‐induced parkinsonism

The factors contributing to substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) dopamine (DA) neuron death and striatal DA depletion in Parkinson’s disease (PD) are still poorly understood. However, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular energy depletion and oxidative stress appear to play important roles in the pathogenesis of PD. In view of this, the current study examined the potential of nicotinamide, a form of the B‐complex vitamin niacin, to protect against 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)‐induced SNc cell loss and striatal DA depletion in two mouse MPTP models that respond differently to putative neuroprotective agents. Adult male C57Bl/6 mice received nicotinamide (125, 250 or 500 mg/kg i.p.) prior to either acute (four injections in 1 day at 2‐h intervals) or sub‐acute (two injections per day at 4‐h intervals for 5 days) MPTP administration. Striatal DA levels, changes in numbers of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)‐ and cresyl violet‐stained cells in the SNc at 2 and 6 weeks following the last MPTP exposure were analyzed. Nicotinamide administration resulted in a dose‐dependent sparing of striatal DA levels and SNc neurons in acute MPTP‐treated animals. Only the highest dose of nicotinamide had similar effects in sub‐acute MPTP‐treated animals. At 6 weeks after MPTP exposure, there was some spontaneous recovery of striatal DA levels in both models: neuroprotective effects were still apparent in acute but not sub‐acute MPTP‐treated animals. These results show neuroprotective effects of nicotinamide in different mouse Parkinson models associated with different forms of cell death and suggest that nicotinamide may have broad neuroprotective potential in PD.
Internet sociology: Impact of Facebook addiction on the lifestyle and other recreational activities of the Indian youth

Background: In March 2013 Facebook announced it had around 1.1 billion monthly active users, this number has been growing exponentially from 40% in 2011 and it is estimated to pass 70% mark in 2013. Most of these users being young, the impact of Facebook addiction can clearly be expected to alter their lifestyle. Objectives: •To examine the impact Facebook addiction (IV) on the recreational activities (DV). •To identify the effects of Facebook addiction on the well-being of the Indian youth. Methods: Empirical research using descriptive analysis was conducted on more than 100 college students. Findings: Greater percentage of the population is at threat to get addicted or is already addicted to Facebook. Activities affected due to Facebook usage were identified and categorized. Anger, frustration, boredom and sadness were the possible variables reported by respondent incase of forceful reduction of Facebook usage.
A Model-Based Techno-Economic Comparison of Optical Access Technologies

The need for broadband Internet services requires the deployment of high-capacity access networks. In the next years, network operators will invest high amounts of money to deploy new fiber-based systems. In this paper we present a techno-economic calculation model and case-study results to compare three diverse access technologies: GPON, Active Optical Networking, and Point-to-Point optical networks. Index Terms—Cost models, CapEx, OpEx, GPON, AON, AE, Pt2tP, FTTH
Fault tolerant state management for high-volume low-latency data stream workloads

One of the major challenges in performing incremental computations on parallel distributed stream processing systems is in the implementation of a mechanism for passing state values across successive runs. One approach is to enhance the granularity from record-at-a-time processing to processing at micro-batch level. A contrasting approach is to follow the record-at-a-time semantics and ensure scalability by means of distributed state management. Both approaches, however, require observing high degree of fault tolerance. In this paper, we study the problem of process state management against non-terminating data stream workloads for low-latency computing using the micro-batch stream processing approach. We attempt to examine methods that could yield optimum levels of state retentions with high degree of fault tolerance for typical processing workloads and propose a three-pronged approach to harness the demand.
Hemostatic Alterations in Liver Disease: A Review on Pathophysiology, Clinical Consequences, and Treatment

In most patients with acute or chronic liver failure, extensive changes in all pathways contributing to hemostasis are found. These hemostatic alterations concern both pro- and antihemostatic pathways, and therefore the net result of the hemostatic dysbalance is unclear. Although it is generally believed that patients with liver disease have a hemostasis-related bleeding tendency, this concept is challenged in recent literature. Although the bleeding problems in patients with liver disease are obvious, the clinically most relevant bleeding episodes, i.e., bleeding from ruptured varices or ulcers, are due to vascular abnormalities and portal hypertension, and not to an abnormal hemostatic system. Moreover, patients with liver disease sometimes experience thrombosis of the portal vein or hepatic artery, which is in part attributed to hypercoagulation. In addition, a substantial part of the patients with liver disease undergoing liver transplantation can nowadays undergo this major surgical procedure, which involves significant hemostatic challenges, without transfusion of blood products. Therefore, the recent debate on the presence of a major hemostatic defect in patients with liver disease seems justified. This paper will review the hemostatic changes that occur in acute and chronic liver failure, and will review hemostasis testing and reversal of coagulopathy in these patients.
Neural Time Course of Echo Suppression in Humans

In reverberant environments, the brain can suppress echoes so that auditory perception is dominated by the primary or leading sounds. Echo suppression comprises at least two distinct phenomena whose neural bases are unknown: spatial translocation of an echo toward the primary sound, and object capture to combine echo and primary sounds into a single event. In an electroencephalography study, we presented subjects with primary-echo (leading–lagging) click pairs in virtual acoustic space, with interclick delay at the individual's 50% suppression threshold. On each trial, subjects reported both click location (one or both hemifields) and the number of clicks they heard (one or two). Thus, the threshold stimulus led to two common percepts: Suppressed and Not Suppressed. On some trials, a subset of subjects reported an intermediate percept, in which two clicks were perceived in the same hemifield as the leading click, providing a dissociation between spatial translocation and object capture. We conducted time–frequency and event-related potential analyses to examine the time course of the neural mechanisms mediating echo suppression. Enhanced gamma band phase synchronization (peaking at ∼40 Hz) specific to successful echo suppression was evident from 20 to 60 ms after stimulus onset. N1 latency provided a categorical neural marker of spatial translocation, whereas N1 amplitude still reflected the physical presence of a second (lagging) click. These results provide evidence that (1) echo suppression begins early, at the latest when the acoustic signal first reaches cortex, and (2) the brain spatially translocates a perceived echo before the primary sound captures it.
Análise clínica da marcha exemplo de aplicação em laboratório de movimento

Neste artigo pretende-se introduzir os conceitos principais da analise quantitativa da marcha como uma ferramenta de apoio a pratica clinica. Assim, para as varias areas de estudo, cinematica, cinetica, pressoes, actividade muscular, apresenta-se a respectiva importância para a avaliacao clinica, abordam-se meios e metodos para aquisicao, tratamento e apresentacao das diversas variaveis biomecânicas. Neste artigo da-se ainda a indicacao da aplicacao da analise quantitativa da marcha no caso concreto do laboratorio do movimento do CRPG Centro de Reabilitacao Profissional de Gaia.
Bayesian Data Fusion for Adaptable Image Pansharpening

Currently, most optical Earth observation satellites carry both a panchromatic sensor and a set of lower spatialresolution multispectral sensors. In order to benefit from both sources of information, several pansharpening methods have been developed to produce a multispectral image at the spatial resolution of the panchromatic band. The aim of this paper is to suggest a novel approach to the pansharpening problem within a Bayesian framework. This Bayesian data fusion (BDF) method relies on statistical relationships between the various spectral bands and the panchromatic band without suffering from restricting modeling hypotheses. Furthermore, it allows the user to weight the spectral and panchromatic information with respect to either visual or quantitative criteria, which leads to adaptable results according to users' needs and study areas. The performance of this approach was compared to existing methods based on markedly different subset images from very high spatial resolution IKONOS images. Results showed that BDF yielded the highest spectral consistency. Furthermore, small details were adequately added to the pansharpened images with little artifact as compared to those created using wavelet-based methods. Finally, the method was fast and easy to implement owing to its straightforward formulation. As it does not have any intrinsic limitations on the type of data to be processed or the number of bands to be merged, it also appears to be very promising for optical/SAR or hyperspectral image fusion.