Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Elimination of useless images from raw camera-trap data

: Camera-traps are motion triggered cameras that are used to observe animals in nature. The number of images collected from camera-traps has increased significantly with the widening use of camera-traps thanks to advances in digital technology. A great workload is required for wild-life researchers to group and label these images. We propose a system to decrease the amount of time spent by the researchers by eliminating useless images from raw camera-trap data. These images are too bright, too dark, blurred, or they contain no animals. To eliminate bright, dark, and blurred images we employ techniques based on image histograms and fast Fourier transform. To eliminate the images without animals, we propose a system combining convolutional neural networks and background subtraction. We experimentally show that the proposed approach keeps 99% of photos with animals while eliminating more than 50% of photos without animals. We also present a software prototype that employs developed algorithms to eliminate useless images.
Pointer Tagging for Memory Safety

1 Summary Memory safety attacks continue to be prevalent on computer systems in use today, as large amounts of unsafe C/C++ code continues to provide attackers with a large supply of buffer overrun, use after free and type confusion bugs. This paper proposes a fundamental instruction set architecture change to combat memory safety problems. The ISA change is mostly transparent to application code and typically only requires a recompilation of the application to gain the security benefits. The change involves having the CPU hold two extra tag bits to the side of each piece of 64-bit data to denote whether the data holds a code/data pointer or not. By doing this, we can prevent attackers from using ‘data’ to corrupt ‘pointers’ and cause undesired damage. We believe the proposed architecture change enables stronger control flow protection than shadow stack (Intel CET) plus Control Flow Guard (CFG) with less performance overhead. Thus, this ISA change not only enhances security, but does so while improving performance.
Malware and Anomaly Detection Using Machine Learning and Deep Learning Methods

This chapter aims to discuss applications of machine learning in cyber security and explore how machine learning algorithms help to fight cyber-attacks. Cyber-attacks are wide and varied in multiple forms. The key benefit of machine learning algorithms is that it can deep dive and analyze system behavior and identify anomalies which do not correlate with expected behavior. Algorithms can be trained to observe multiple data sets and strategize payload beforehand in detection of malware analysis.
Content Distribution and OpenFlow: a Reality Check

With the advent of virtualization and network function softwarization, the networking world shifts to Software Defined Networking (SDN). The OpenFlow protocol is one of the most suitable candidates to implement the SDN concept. In the meanwhile, the generalization of broadband Internet (mobile, cable, DSL, fiber etc.) has led to massive content consumption. However, while content is usually retrieved via layer 7 protocols, OpenFlow operations are performed at lower layers (layer 4 or lower) making the protocol completely ineffective to deal with content. To address this issue, we proposed and developed an API to manage content in OpenFlow networks. We implemented this API using open source software and study the impact of logical centralization suggested by SDN on network performances.
Design Development Research Approach in Developing Gel Electrophoresis Virtual Laboratory to substitute Real Practicum

One of the purposes of Genetic practicum is that students can understand DNA separation techniques, by conducting gel electrophoresis practicum. Some Institutions of Teacher Training (LPTK) have problems in gel electrophoresis practicum due to unavailability of the lab. For this reason, it is necessary to try a replacement practicum in the form of a virtual laboratory to meet practicum objectives. This research uses a design development research (DDR) approach, through six stages, namely 1) identifying problems by determining indicators of learning and supporting literature studies, 2) determining the purpose, 3) designing and developing devices by designing virtual laboratories, determining the software that will be used, compiling a virtual laboratory storyboard and expert validation, 4) testing, 5) evaluating the results of the trial, and 6) communicating the results of the trial. The validated device was tested on a limited basis on 38 student participants who took genetic practicum. Data on laboratory reports on virtual laboratory gel electrophoresis were analyzed descriptively based on the students' ability to understand gel electrophoresis. 95.89% of students have the ability to understand gel electrophoresis.
Cyclic Prefix Overhead Reduction for Low-Latency OFDM Communications

Low latency is one of the most critical requirements for 5G mobile communications. To achieve latency as low as 1 ms, the packet duration should be less than 33 μs [1]. However, this cannot be met in the current version of LTE-A, since the OFDM symbol duration in LTE-A is equal to 67 μs. Therefore, the symbol duration needs to be decreased to achieve lower latency [2]. However, the reduced symbol duration will increase the overhead of cyclic prefix (CP) unless the length of CP is changed accordingly. As the required length of the CP is proportional to the delay spread of the channel [3], the delay spread should be reduced to shorten the CP length in accordance with the OFDM symbol duration. The objective of this paper is to develop a precoding scheme to shorten the effective delay spread of the channel so that the CP overhead can be reduced in an OFDM system.
Systematic mapping study of usability in post-implementation on agile software development

Need for new software information systems is increasing year by year and information software systems have become present in everyday life of people. As the number of systems has increased so has the need of these systems to be usable and work properly. This thesis used systematic mapping study method to get overview of the current state of usability in agile software development. In the study, initially 269 papers were retrieved from SCOPUS and after exclusion of irrelevant papers 92 papers were selected to the study of which 75 papers got through inclusion criteria to the final stage of the study. In this thesis a look to current state of usability in agile software development is presented. Study suggested that usability usage in agile environment is still trying to find its place but there is research being done constantly to make it more prevalent in the field. From those agile software development projects, that had included the usage of some sort of usability method to development, too few included usability throughout the whole development cycle.
Bandwidth partition and allocation for efficient spectrum utilization in cognitive communications

Conventional cognitive communications rely heavily on the smartness of secondary (unlicensed) users (SUs) to achieve high spectrum utilization, which involves the optimization of the SUs' policies and behaviors for dynamic spectrum access, power allocation among multiple channels, etc. Due to the inherent randomness of the primary users' (PUs') transmission, those efforts inevitably increase the implementation complexity and sensing overheads of the SUs, and in turn lower the spectrum utilization efficiency. In this paper, we try to change the focus from SU to PU. A cooperative traffic allocation strategy for PU, together with the non-uniform bandwidth partition, is employed to regularize the PU's resource occupancy pattern without compromising its performance, and to maximize the spare bandwidth for the SU at the same time. We first study the capacity based optimization problem (COP) together with the fully polynomial time approximation scheme (FPTAS) for an approximation guarantee of the global optimum. Then we analyze the subcarrier based optimization problem as the surrogate problem of COP, which can be solved by a greedy algorithm exactly. Both the theoretical analysis and the numerical simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of those methods to achieve the performance that almost identical to that of the global optimum solution.
Efficient data dissemination approach for QoS enhancement in VANETs

Vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs) have seen tremendous growth in the last decade, providing a vast range of applications in both military and civilian activities. However, such applications require heavy data packets to be shared on the same spectrum without the requirement of excessive radios. Thus, efficient approaches are required which can provide improved data dissemination along with the better quality of services (QoS) to allow heavy traffic to be easily shared between the vehicles. In this paper, an efficient data dissemination approach is proposed which not only improves the vehicle to vehicle connectivity but also improves the QoS between the source and the destination. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is demonstrated in terms of the significant gains attained in the parameters namely, end to end delay, packet delivery ratio, route acquisition time, throughput, and message dissemination rate in comparison with the existing approaches.
On the use of semidefinite relaxation for uplink phase-only hybrid beamforming with blockers

Densification of mobile networks using small cells (SCs) is a promising approach to achieve the forecasted 1000x growth in capacity for next generation wireless communication systems. However, a major impediment of dense SC network is the low signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) regime, notably in uncoordinated time-division duplexing (TDD) systems in sub-6GHz bands. To circumvent this issue and to enhance the performance of the physical (PHY) layer, hybrid beamforming (HBF) solutions involving both analog and digital stages are necessary. HBF technologies provide interference rejection through analog filtering prior to quantization, spatial multiplexing and require lesser radio-frequency (RF) chains and analog-to-digital converters (ADCs). Conversely, digital beamforming (DBF) performance saturates because of high interferers (blockers) and restricted ADC dynamic range. Moreover, HBF RF circuitry could be further simplified by the use of phase-only weights in analog beamforming (ABF) stage. However, this would be at the cost of making the SINR optimization problem non-convex. Existing sumrate results amalgamating quantization noise consist of lower bounds obtained by distortion factor approximation and worst-case distribution assumption. In this paper, we propose a relaxation approach to phase-only beamforming which allows for a straightforward solution using off-the-shelf interior point algorithms. Rather than directly comparing it in terms of sumrate, we compare it first in terms of SINR, as a function of an algebraic angle between the interferer and the user, with a state-of-the-art local convergence method. Further to this, we include an ADC model to the existing lower bound sumrate results, and analyze various solutions in a sub-6GHz multi-user uplink scenario.
An interactive application for malaria elimination transmission and costing in the Asia-Pacific

Leaders in the Asia-Pacific have endorsed an ambitious target to eliminate malaria in the region by 2030. The emergence and spread of artemisinin drug resistance in the Greater Mekong Subregion makes elimination urgent and strategic for the global goal of malaria eradication. Mathematical modelling is a useful tool for assessing and comparing different elimination strategies and scenarios to inform policymakers. Mathematical models are especially relevant in this context because of the wide heterogeneity of regional, country and local settings, which means that different strategies are needed to eliminate malaria. However, models and their predictions can be seen as highly technical, limiting their use for decision making. Simplified applications of models are needed to allow policy makers to benefit from these valuable tools. This paper describes a method for communicating complex model results with a user-friendly and intuitive framework. Using open-source technologies, we designed and developed an interactive application to disseminate the modelling results for malaria elimination. The design was iteratively improved while the application was being piloted and extensively tested by a diverse range of researchers and decision makers. This application allows several target audiences to explore, navigate and visualise complex datasets and models generated in the context of malaria elimination. It allows widespread access, use of and interpretation of models, generated at great effort and expense as well as enabling them to remain relevant for a longer period of time. It has long been acknowledged that scientific results need to be repackaged for larger audiences. We demonstrate that modellers can include applications as part of the dissemination strategy of their findings. We highlight that there is a need for additional research in order to provide guidelines and direction for designing and developing effective applications for disseminating models.
Theoretical and Practical Aspects of Linking Operational and Algebraic Semantics for MDESL

Verilog is a hardware description language (HDL) that has been standardized and widely used in industry. Multithreaded discrete event simulation language (MDESL) is a Verilog-like language. It contains interesting features such as event-driven computation and shared-variable concurrency. This article considers how the algebraic semantics links with the operational semantics for MDESL. Our approach is from both the theoretical and practical aspects. The link is proceeded by deriving the operational semantics from the algebraic semantics. First, we present the algebraic semantics for MDESL. We introduce the concept of head normal form. Second, we present the strategy of deriving operational semantics from algebraic semantics. We also investigate the soundness and completeness of the derived operational semantics with respect to the derivation strategy. Our theoretical approach is complemented by a practical one, and we use the theorem proof assistant Coq to formalize the algebraic laws and the derived operational semantics. Meanwhile, the soundness and completeness of the derived operational semantics is also verified via the mechanical approach in Coq. Our approach is a novel way to formalize and verify the correctness and equivalence of different semantics for MDESL in both a theoretical approach and a practical approach.
Segmenting urban populations for greater conservation gains: A new approach targeting cobenefits is required

Engaging urban residents in greater proconservation behaviors is essential to mitigate the biodiversity crisis. To date, most behavior‐change campaigns have been based on a one‐size‐fits‐all “think‐care‐act” approach resulting in insufficient, sometimes counterproductive, conservation gains. In our study, we assess the “think‐care‐act” paradigm and also consider a range of cobenefits that may motivate different segments of urban populations to take greater conservation action for reasons other than biodiversity gains. We surveyed a representative sample of Auckland, New Zealand (n = 2,124) and four clusters emerged through clustering analysis. The first segment (Environmentally Active; 32%), exhibited the “think‐care‐act” paradigm. The second segment (Well Informed; 28%), was highly knowledgeable and concerned about conservation problems but exhibited lower conservation behaviors. The third segment (Active Outdoors; 19%) was actively engaged in outdoor activities, but exhibited low conservation knowledge, concern, and behaviors. The fourth segment (Socially Motivated; 21%), demonstrated high levels of conservation behaviors but lower knowledge and concern about conservation issues. We discuss potential ways to engage with each segment based on cobenefits and the need to move away from the traditional “think‐care‐act” paradigm and instead work with existing values systems and foster greater conservation behavior based on existing cobenefits.
Scalable Sender-Based Message Logging Protocol with Little Communication Overhead for Distributed Systems

The inherent shortcoming of the conventional Sender-Based Message Logging (SBML) protocols is to require additional control message interactions per application message to satisfy the always-no-orphans condition in case of sequential failures. In this paper, a scalable SBML protocol is introduced to lower the communication overhead by handling a sequence of messages consecutively received by each process before sending as a party. The protocol enables the process to delay the update of their receive sequence numbers to their senders until there comes out the first message it is willing to send, and then perform the collective filling out task with each sender requiring only one control message exchange. Experimental results show that our protocol outperforms the previous one in terms of the number of control messages generated.
Interconnections: Bridges, Routers, Switches, and Internetworking Protocols

Radia Perlman's Interconnections is recognized as a leading text on networking theory and practice. It provides authoritative and comprehensive information on general networking concepts, routing algorithms and protocols, addressing, and the mechanics of bridges, routers, switches, and hubs. This Second Edition is expanded and updated to cover the newest developments in the field, including advances in switching and bridge technology, VLANs, Fast Ethernet, DHCP, ATM, and IPv6. Additional new topics include IPX, AppleTalk, and DECnet. You will gain a deeper understanding of the range of solutions possible and find valuable information on protocols for which documentation is not readily available elsewhere.Written by the inventor of many of the algorithms that make switching and routing robust and efficient, Interconnections, Second Edition offers an expert's insight into how and why networks operate as they do. Perlman describes all of the major networking algorithms and protocols in use today in clear and concise terms, while exploring the engineering trade-offs that the different approaches represent.The book contains extensive coverage of such topics as: The spanning tree algorithm The differences between bridges, routers, and switches Virtual LANs (VLANs) and Fast Ethernet Addressing and packet formats for IP, IPv6, IPX, CLNP, AppleTalk, and DECnet Autoconfiguration of addresses; strategies in various protocol suites Routing protocols, including RIP, IS-IS, OSPF, PNNI, NLSP, and BGP Layer 3 multicast protocols, including IGMP, DVMRP, MOSPF, CBT, PIM, BGMP, Simple Multicast, and Express Sabotage-proof routing Protocol design folklore 0201634481B04062001
Internet-of-Things (IoT)-Based Smart Agriculture: Toward Making the Fields Talk

Despite the perception people may have regarding the agricultural process, the reality is that today’s agriculture industry is data-centered, precise, and smarter than ever. The rapid emergence of the Internet-of-Things (IoT) based technologies redesigned almost every industry including “smart agriculture” which moved the industry from statistical to quantitative approaches. Such revolutionary changes are shaking the existing agriculture methods and creating new opportunities along a range of challenges. This article highlights the potential of wireless sensors and IoT in agriculture, as well as the challenges expected to be faced when integrating this technology with the traditional farming practices. IoT devices and communication techniques associated with wireless sensors encountered in agriculture applications are analyzed in detail. What sensors are available for specific agriculture application, like soil preparation, crop status, irrigation, insect and pest detection are listed. How this technology helping the growers throughout the crop stages, from sowing until harvesting, packing and transportation is explained. Furthermore, the use of unmanned aerial vehicles for crop surveillance and other favorable applications such as optimizing crop yield is considered in this article. State-of-the-art IoT-based architectures and platforms used in agriculture are also highlighted wherever suitable. Finally, based on this thorough review, we identify current and future trends of IoT in agriculture and highlight potential research challenges.
Image steganalysis based on convolutional neural network and feature selection

Steganalysis is to detect whether or not the seemly innocent image hiding message. It is an important research topic in information security. With the development of steganography technology, steganalysis becomes more and more difficult. Some steganalysis methods have been proposed to improve the performance. Most research work concentrates on special steganography information detection and the image steganography features are designed manually. Few research works concentrate on universal steganalysis methods. In this paper, as the first several attempts, a novel image steganalysis method based on deep neural network is proposed. First, image high‐frequency features are extracted with wavelet transformation method because that most image hiding message are high frequency. Second, high‐dimensional image steganography features are extracted with deep neural networks according to the high‐frequency images and informative features combination is selected with a novel feature selection method based on entropy. Then, a parallel SVM model is proposed to build the steganalysis model based on large scale training samples. At last, the efficiency of the proposed method is illustrated through analyzing a practical image steganalysis example.
CONSTRUCTION AND VALIDATION OF SCALE OF BARRIERS TO PARTICIPATION IN EDUCATION

The study aimed to construct and validate the Scale of Barriers to Participation in Education. The bases for item generation were various theoretic and empirical concepts. In order to test validity and internal consistency of the scale, item analysis, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis and Cronbach’s α were used. Based on the sample of 158 adults, the factor analysis with the principal components extracted 3 components: Time and logistics barriers, (ii) Personal barriers and (iii) Perceived Effort. Results indicate Scale of Barriers to Participation in Education to be a valid and a reliable instrument for measuring barriers in entering education.
Library Management System Based on Face Recognition Technique

Biometrics is a term used to characterize a person's DNA, hand geometry, face, and so on or behavioral qualities, for example, hand signature, voice tone, keystrokes et cetera. Consequently, these natural attributes are novel for each person. As a rule, face recognition related advancements are ending up more prominent among biometric-based innovations that measure a person's common information. Hereditary biometrics has for the most part used to verify and recognize people by examining their physical attributes, for example, unique finger impression, eye iris, vein and so forth. The reason for this work is to show a Windows based continuous application framework utilizing face recognition calculations for performing Library Transaction. Rather than utilizing a Library card, a camera would catch pictures of faces of understudy, playing out the library transaction and contrast them and the photographs of the understudy in the database of Library to confirm the understudy's personality. Nearby Binary Patterns, face calculations will used to lessen the effect of light presentation that will influence the exactness of the framework.