Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Accurate and Efficient Estimation of Parameters of Heterogeneous Communication Performance Models

Analytical predictive communication models play an important role in the optimization of communication operations in scientific applications running on computational clusters. The effectiveness of this model-based optimization strongly depends on the accuracy of the estimation of the parameters of these models. The task of accurate estimation of the model is particularly challenging for heterogeneous communication models that use a much larger number of point-to-point parameters than their homogeneous counterparts. One particular challenge occurs when the number of point-to-point parameters describing communication between a pair of processors becomes larger than the number of independent point-to-point communication experiments traditionally used for estimation of the parameters. In this paper, we address this and other related issues and propose an approach that allows us to design a set of communication experiments sufficient for the accurate and efficient estimation of the parameters of a heterogeneous communication performance model. The experiments on heterogeneous clusters demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed solution.
Data transmission method without additional circuits in bidirectional wireless power transfer system

In the bidirectional wireless power transfer (WPT) system, each power circuit of the transmitter and the receiver part is controlled by different controllers. Therefore, to control and maintain the entire system, the output voltage phase synchronization and data transmission functions between the controllers should be implemented. The communication circuit is normally used to realize them, but this additional circuit increases overall cost of the system. Therefore, this paper presents the data transmission method without communication circuits for eliminating the dedicated circuit in the bidirectional WPT system. Proposed data transmission is implemented by perturbing peak of the fundamental output voltage at the transmitter and monitoring the signal fluctuation due to the perturbation at the receiver. The operation of the proposed method is verified by the simulation result.
A Comparative Study on Efficacy of Fludrocortisones versus Glucocorticoids and Vasodilators in the Treatment of Idiopathic Sensorineural Cochlear Hearing Loss

Introduction and Objectives: The idiopathic sensorineural cochlear hearing loss is one of the most frequent human sensory deficits and there is no specific drug therapy for it. The possible hearing recovery is related with the reestablishment of normal ionic homeostasis of the endolymph controlled by the mineralocorticoid as could be demonstrate experimentally. The purpose of this clinical trial was to confirm the efficacy of mineralocorticoids to the recovery of hearing level in patients suffering idiopathic sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) against the glucocorticoids and vasodilator drugs. Material and Methods: The research lasted three months and involved 90 patients allocated into four different groups: Placebo group, consisted of 20 patients (10 men and 10 women); the group consisting of 22 patients treated with glucocorticoid therapy (12 men and 10 female); the group treated with mineralocorticoid therapy encompassed 26 patients (13 males and 13 females) and the group of vasodilators formed by 22 patients (12 men and 10 women). The level of hearing loss was estimated by the tests Liminal Tone Audiometry (LTA) and Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR). Results: The main features in this research were overall better response in improving the hearing level with the mineralocorticoid therapy. This improvement in hearing levels was greater in women than in men, and a higher response was found in the left ear regardless of patient’s gender. Conclusions: The hearing gain was significantly superior in the mineralocorticoids group followed by the glucocorticoids group whereas the response to vasodilators was lesser and with no statistical significance.
LiLAC: Lightweight Low-Latency Anonymous Chat

Low latency anonymity systems, like Tor and I2P, support private online communications, but offer limited protection against powerful adversaries with widespread eavesdropping capabilities. It is known that general-purpose communications, such as web and file transfer, are difficult to protect in that setting. However, online instant messaging only requires a low bandwidth and we show it to be amenable to strong anonymity protections. In this paper, we describe the design and engineering of LiLAC, a Lightweight Low-latency Anonymous Chat service, that offers both strong anonymity and a lightweight client-side presence. LiLAC implements a set of anonymizing relays, and offers stronger anonymity protections by applying dependent link padding on top of constant-rate traffic flows. This leads to a key trade-off between the system's bandwidth overhead and end-to-end delay along the circuit, which we study. Additionally, we examine the impact of allowing zero-installation overhead on the client side, by instead running LiLAC on web browsers. This introduces potential security risks, by relying on third-party software and requiring user awareness; yet it also reduces the footprint left on the client, enhancing deniability and countering forensics. Those design decisions and trade-offs make LiLAC an interesting case to study for privacy and security engineers.
A Low Phase Noise Oscillator Principled on Transformer-Coupled Hard Limiting

Reduced phase noise conversion in a monolithic oscillator suitable for basestation applications is realized by hard limiting and subsequently restoring the resonating waveform. Overdriven transistors hard limit the drain voltage swing and it is shown analytically that this desensitizes the oscillation phase to circuit noise. A pair of tuned, 1:2 step-up transformers in the feedback path restore the fundamental frequency component with sufficient gain to overdrive the transistors forming the oscillator core, with greater selectivity than an equivalent LC tank. The 8 GHz, 65 nm CMOS oscillator prototype targeting the GSM-900 base-station specification consumes 32 mA from 1.5 V. Normalized to 915 MHz, the phase noise measured at 1 MHz offset is -147.7 dBc/Hz, validating predictions from theory and simulation. The measured frequency pushing is less than 16 MHz/V.
Src family tyrosine kinases activate thrombin-induced non-capacitative cation entry in human platelets

Platelet activation is critically regulated by an increase in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i). Although Ca2+ release from intracellular Ca2+ stores and subsequent store-operated Ca2+ entry are often thought to be the major contributors to increases in [Ca2+]i evoked by most agonists, high concentrations of thrombin activate a Ca2+ entry pathway that is independent of Ca2+ store depletion (known as ‘non-capacitative cation entry’–NCCE). The channel that conducts NCCE has not previously been clearly identified, and the mechanisms that regulate its activation are also unknown. Here we have investigated NCCE using fura-2-loaded human platelets. To investigate NCCE independently of other Ca2+ signaling pathways, the intracellular Ca2+ stores were first rapidly depleted in the absence of extracellular Ca2+. Sr2+ was then added to monitor maximal store-operated cation influx. Thrombin was then added to stimulate NCCE. Flufenamic acid, which inhibits Ca2+ entry through most TRPC isoforms, but potentiates entry through TRPC6, was found to block store-operated cation entry. In contrast, thrombin-induced NCCE was increased, suggesting the possible involvement of TRPC6. Since TRPC6 is regulated by Src family tyrosine kinases in some cells, we investigated the possible role of this kinase family in NCCE. PP2, a Src family tyrosine kinase inhibitor, completely abolished thrombin-induced NCCE. Furthermore, NCCE was enhanced by phenylarsine oxide and could be directly induced by vanadyl hydroperoxide, both tyrosine phosphatase inhibitors. These data indicate that Src family tyrosine kinase activation is a required step in NCCE activation. In conclusion NCCE may be an important regulator of platelet activation when local thrombin concentrations are high.
Acoustic Rendering and Auditory–Visual Cross‐Modal Perception and Interaction

In recent years research in the three‐dimensional sound generation field has been primarily focussed upon new applications of spatialized sound. In the computer graphics community the use of such techniques is most commonly found being applied to virtual, immersive environments. However, the field is more varied and diverse than this and other research tackles the problem in a more complete, and computationally expensive manner. Furthermore, the simulation of light and sound wave propagation is still unachievable at a physically accurate spatio‐temporal quality in real time. Although the Human Visual System (HVS) and the Human Auditory System (HAS) are exceptionally sophisticated, they also contain certain perceptional and attentional limitations. Researchers, in fields such as psychology, have been investigating these limitations for several years and have come up with findings which may be exploited in other fields. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the major techniques for generating spatialized sound and, in addition, discusses perceptual and cross‐modal influences to consider. We also describe current limitations and provide an in‐depth look at the emerging topics in the field.
A real-time cognitive-sonar system for diver detection

Cognitive signal processing has been intensively studied over the past years. Nevertheless, cognitive sonar systems only draw little attention in the research community. In this paper the signal processing of a cognitive sonar system for diver detection is shown in detail. It is inspired by the target-detection system of a bat and thus able to adapt its signal processing units to measured parameters of particular targets. This is done by adjusting the transmitted signal as well as the direction of the transmitted energy of the active sonar system by transmit beamforming. Thereby, it is possible to improve on the one hand the probability of detection of a target for a given signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) as well as signal-to-reverberation ratio (SRR) and, on the other hand, to extend the spatial awareness by adapting the transmit beamformer. This technique leads to a combination of two spatial filters: the receive beampattern and the transmit beampattern. To obtain target-specific parameters, the data form an internal tracking system is used. After showing a general system overview, the core parts of the signal processing are shown in detail. At this point we focus on the Doppler processing with its real-time interpolation and correlation algorithms. MonteCarlo simulations illustrate the potential of the proposed system by comparing the results with conventional active-sonar signal processing.
Pulling the trigger: the mechanism of bacterial spore germination

In spite of displaying the most extreme dormancy and resistance properties known among living systems, bacterial endospores retain an alert environment‐sensing mechanism that can respond within seconds to the presence of specific germinants. This germination response is triggered in the absence of both germinant and germinant‐stimulated metabolism. Genes coding for components of the sensing mechanism in spores of Bacillus subtilis have been cloned and sequenced. However, the molecular mechanism whereby these receptors interact with germinants to initiate the germination response is unknown. Recent evidence has suggested that in spores of Bacillus megaterium KM, proteolytic activation of an autolytic enzyme constitutes part of the germination trigger reaction.
Teetering on the Edge: A Substantive Theory Of Postpartum Depression

Using the grounded theory method, a substantive theory of postpartum depression was developed. Data were obtained through participant observation in a postpartum depression support group over an 18-month period. In addition, 12 in-depth taped interviews were conducted with mothers who had attended the support group. Analysis of the data by the constant comparative method revealed loss of control as the basic social psychological problem. Women suffering from postpartum depression attempted to cope with the problem of loss of control through the four-stage process of teetering on the edge. The stages that emerged from the data included (a) encountering terror, (b) dying of self, (c) struggling to survive, and (d) regaining control.
Cross-section Projector: Interactive and Intuitive Presentation of 3D Volume Data using a Handheld Screen

A novel display system that presents cross-sectional image of 3D volume data in an intuitive and interactive way is proposed. A screen panel is manipulated by a user; the position and orientation of the screen are measured by sensors; cross-sectional image of 3D volume data with the screen plane is generated and projected on the screen panel. By supporting this interaction up to a relatively high frequency motion of the screen panel, volumetric image of the 3D data is provided to user when the screen panel is quickly moved. The integrated presentation of cross-sectional and volumetric images is thought to mutually complement drawbacks each other; the volumetric image provides holistic view on the spatial structure, while the cross-sectional image provides more precise information among the volume data. A sensing system to measure the motion of screen plane using laser displacement sensors is designed, and a method to cancel the delay time from measurement to projection by predicting the motion of the screen panel is devised. Through implementation of a prototype system, feasibility of our approach is demonstrated, and future works that are required to improve the system is discussed
Coding of Spatial Information in the Somatosensory System: Evidence from Patients with Neglect following Parietal Lobe Damage

Unilateral parietal lobe damage, particularly in the right cerebral hemisphere, leads to neglect of stimuli on the contra lateral side. To determine the reference frame within which neglect operates in the somatosensory system, 11 patients with unilateral neglect were touched simultaneously on the left and right side of the wrist of one hand. The hand was tested in both the palm up and the palm down position. Patients neglected the stimuli on the side of space contra lateral to the lesion regardless of hand position. These results indicate that point-localization in the somatosensory system is accomplished with respect to a spatially defined frame-of-reference and not strictly with respect to somatotopically defined coordinates.
Transdiagnostic cognitive behavioural treatment and the impact of co-morbidity: An open trial in a cohort of primary care patients

Abstract Background: The development of initiatives to improve access to psychological therapies has been driven by the realization that untreated anxiety and depression are both very common and costly to individuals as well as society. Effective and efficient treatments, mostly in the form of cognitive behavioural therapies (CBT), can be used in ways which enhance their acceptability and accessibility. To date, numbers of group therapies have been developed to improve cost efficiency, but in spite of growing interest in transdiagnostic approaches, group therapies have so far mostly been diagnosis specific. Aims: This study is aimed at evaluating a brief transdiagnostic cognitive behavioural group therapy (TCBGT) designed to treat both anxiety and depression among patients in primary care. Method: The participants were 287 adult patients in primary care with diagnoses of depression and/or anxiety disorders. They underwent a 5-week TCBGT. A mixed design ANOVA was used to evaluate differential effects of treatment according to diagnostic groups (anxiety versus depression) and number of diagnoses (co-morbidity). Results: Pre–post differences were significant and the treatment was equally effective for both anxiety disorders and depression. Number of diagnoses did not affect the outcome. Conclusions: The study indicates feasibility of the brief transdiagnostic group therapy for a wide range of mood and anxiety disorders in primary care. The results indicate that low intensity, brief transdiagnostic group therapies may be a feasible way to improve access to psychological therapies for a large number of patients.
Erythrocyte deformability has no influence on the rate of erythrophagocytosis in vitro by autologous human monocytes/macrophages

Summary. Erythrocytes with decreased deformability are known to be rapidly removed from the circulation by splenic macrophages. The exact mechanism is, however, not well understood. We have analysed the phagocytosis of less‐deformable erythrocytes by macrophages in vitro. Human monocytes/macrophages were isolated from peripheral blood and cultured for a total time of 6 h at 37°C with 5% CO2. Autologous erythrocytes of the rhesus positive donor were rigidified by heat treatment (47°C for 1 h). The change in erythrocyte deformability was assessed with a filter aspiration technique; the membrane elastic modulus was found to be increased about 2·5‐fold. For controls, untreated erythrocytes and erythrocytes incubated with anti‐RhD‐antibodies were prepared. The rate of phagocytosis during 2 h at 37°C and 5% CO2 was 0·74·0±59 (erythrocytes per monocyte/macrophage) for controls, 3·58·2±72 for anti‐RhD‐loaded erythrocytes and 0·82·0±74 for heat‐treated erythrocytes, respectively. We conclude that decreased erythrocytes deformability does not cause an increased rate of phagocytosis by monocytes/macrophages compared to normally deformable erythrocytes in our in vitro model. This suggests that the preferential removal of rigid cells in vivo is probably not a specific process, but is due to the increased splenic transit time of rigid erythrocytes and hence longer interaction time between erythrocytes and phagocytes.
The relationship between phoria and the ratio of convergence peak velocity to divergence peak velocity.

PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between phoria and the dynamics of vergence eye movements as described by the ratio of convergence average peak velocity to divergence average peak velocity, termed the vergence peak velocity ratio. METHODS Phoria and vergence step responses were recorded. Three measures of phoria were assessed: baseline phoria, which is the initial phoria measurement; adapted phoria, which is the phoria measured after a visual task; and change in phoria, which is defined as adapted phoria minus baseline phoria. Phoria was modified in two experiments: vergence steps located at different initial positions and different sustained convergent fixations. Four linear regression analyses were conducted to study the interactions among baseline phoria and vergence peak velocity ratio, adapted phoria and vergence peak velocity ratio, baseline and adapted phoria, and baseline phoria and change in phoria. RESULTS Baseline and adapted phoria were significantly correlated to vergence peak velocity ratio. Adapted phoria and baseline phoria were also significantly correlated. The change in phoria induced by the vergence steps or a sustained fixation task was independent of the baseline phoria. CONCLUSIONS These data support that phoria is a factor in the asymmetry between peak velocity of convergence and divergence and that baseline phoria level is not a factor in the amount of change observed in phoria level (adapted phoria minus baseline phoria). Future oculomotor models of vergence should incorporate phoria within the design.
De la langue de ma mère à celle de l’école Parcours langagier des enfants tamouls du Sri Lanka.

En partant de l’idee que transmettre une langue n’est pas un simple acte linguistique, mais une transmission chargee d’affects, nous nous proposons de travailler sur le parcours langagier souvent complexe des enfants tamouls du Sri Lanka. C’est dans un contexte recent et particulier que la plupart des familles tamoules ont migre en France. Cette recherche concerne les enfants qui ont entre quatre ans et cinq ans, qui sont nes en France, ainsi que leurs parents venus du Sri Lanka. Cette these s’inscrit dans la recherche sur le bilinguisme : d’une langue a l’autre (qui fait partie d’un Programme Hospitalier de Recherche Clinique), menee par l’equipe pluridisciplinaire du service de psychopathologie de l’enfant et de l’adolescent de l’hopital Avicenne, grâce a laquelle nous avons pu evaluer les enfants en tamoul et en francais et rencontrer leurs parents. Cette recherche a pour but de valider un outil permettant d’evaluer la langue maternelle et de mettre en evidence des facteurs qui sont determinants dans l’acquisition du bilinguisme. Les donnees de cette these sont recueillies dans le cadre de la recherche sur le bilinguisme. Ainsi, en etudiant l’utilisation des langues et leurs representations, nous avons trouve des traces de filiation et d’affiliations dans le langage des enfants tamouls. En travaillant sur les langues avec les enfants et leurs parents, nous avons pu mettre en evidence que la transmission de la langue maternelle ne se fait pas seulement par des mots et que les enfants sont sensibles a ce qui est transmis au-dela des mots, soit aux affects et aux representations. Cette recherche a pour but de mieux comprendre la place des langues afin de proposer des soins adaptes aux difficultes langagieres des enfants tamouls originaires du Sri Lanka.
Acoustic Model Training with Detecting Transcription Errors in the Training Data

As the target of Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) has moved from clean read speech to spontaneous conversational speech, we need to prepare orthographic transcripts of spontaneous conversational speech to train acoustic models (AMs). However, it is expensive and slow to manually transcribe such speech word by word. We propose a framework to train an AM based on easy-to-make rough transcripts in which ﬁllers and small word fragments are not precisely transcribed and some transcription errors are included. By focusing on the phone duration in the result of forced alignment between the rough transcripts and the utterances, we can automatically detect the erroneous parts in the rough transcripts. A preliminary experiment showed that we can detect the erroneous parts with moderately high recall and precision. Through ASR experiments with conversational telephone speech, we conﬁrmed that automatic detection helped improve the performance of the AM trained with both conventional ML criteria and state-of-the-art boosted MMI criteria.
Serum levels of total protein, immunoglobulin G and cortisol in Nelore calves, at the birth and at 24 hours old: influence of the type and the duration of the parturition.

Foram avaliadas as concentracoes sericas de proteina total (PT), imunoglobulina G (IgG) e cortisol de 251 bezerros da raca Nelore, comparando-se quanto ao tipo de parto (normal ou distocico) e o tempo de duracao. Os teores medios de proteina total nao apresentaram diferencas significativas em relacao ao tipo e nem a duracao dos partos. Os valores medios de imunoglobulina G nao apresentaram diferenca significativa em relacao ao tipo de parto. Ja o tempo de duracao dos partos influenciou os valores sericos de IgG, sendo que os animais que demoraram entre quatro e seis horas para o seu nascimento apresentaram menores valores (1.250 mg/dL) do que os que demoraram entre o nascimento a duas horas para nascerem (3.200 mg/dL). Os teores de cortisol nao foram influenciados pelo tipo ou duracao dos partos.