Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Learning from high-dimensional multivariate signals

Learning from high-dimensional multivariate signals by Arnau Tibau Puig Chair: Alfred O. Hero III Modern measurement systems monitor a growing number of variables at low cost. In the problem of statistically characterizing the observed measurements, budget limitations usually constrain the number n of samples that one can acquire, leading to situations where the number p of variables is much larger than n. In this situation, classical statistical methods, founded on the assumption that n is large and p is fixed, fail both in theory and in practice. A successful approach to overcome this problem is to assume a parsimonious generative model characterized by a number k of free parameters, where k is much smaller than p. In this dissertation we develop algorithms to fit low-dimensional generative models and extract relevant information from high-dimensional, multivariate signals. First, we define extensions of the well-known Scalar Shrinkage-Thresholding Operator, that we name Multidimensional and Generalized Shrinkage-Thresholding Operators, and show that these extensions arise in numerous algorithms for structured-sparse linear and non-linear regression. Using convex optimization techniques, we show that these operators, defined as the solutions to a class of convex, non-differentiable, optimization problems have an equivalent convex, low-dimensional reformulation. Our equivalence results shed light on the behavior of a general class of penalties that includes classical sparsity-inducing penalties such as the LASSO and the Group LASSO. In addition, our reformulation leads in some cases to new efficient algorithms for a variety of high-dimensional penalized estimation problems. Second, we introduce two new classes of low-dimensional factor models that account for temporal shifts commonly occurring in multivariate signals. Our first conxviii tribution, called Order Preserving Factor Analysis, can be seen as an extension of the non-negative, sparse matrix factorization model to allow for order-preserving temporal translations in the data. We develop an efficient descent algorithm to fit this model using techniques from convex and non-convex optimization. Our second contribution extends Principal Component Analysis to the analysis of observations suffering from arbitrary circular shifts, and we call it Misaligned Principal Component Analysis. We quantify the effect of the misalignments in the spectrum of the sample covariance matrix in the high-dimensional regime and develop simple algorithms to jointly estimate the principal components and the misalignment parameters. All our algorithms are validated with both synthetic and real data. The real data is a high-dimensional longitudinal gene expression dataset obtained from blood samples of individuals inoculated by different types of viruses. Our results demonstrate the benefit of applying tailored, low-dimensional models to learn from high-dimensional multivariate temporal signals.
Intercultural communication

The right to appeal is a fundamental human right and means the right of the individual to appeal, the existence of a body designated to review the appeal, the unconditional acceptance of the appeal for review, reasonable deadlines for its review, an objective review, judicial control, as a final control over the appeal, as well as the possibility of possible rehabilitation because of the eventual acceptance of the appeal. In this paper we will treat, analyse, and justify why Article 282, point 2 of the Customs Code restricts the right of appeal. This provision, as it will turn out, does not meet the minimum standard for an effective appeal in the domestic courts, set by Article 13 of the The European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Fiscal liability that deviates from the principle of equality and proportionality in the exercise of customs and tax authority risks depriving taxpayers of the means necessary to guarantee services that protect fundamental rights. The restriction of the fundamental right to an effective appeal was made by the customs law, Article 282/2, which from the point of view of the law exceeds the limits of
Programming the programme: pacing the curriculum in architectural education

Constructive alignment in project based learning provides the opportunity to ‘entrap students in a web of consistency’ (Biggs, 1999). While the central design of a curriculum can incorporate the core elements of a syllabus for successful alignment, consideration of pace and timing of content delivery, assessment and learning opportunities can enhance student engagement and satisfaction. This paper draws upon a case study of the second year architecture curriculum at Northumbria University. The curriculum has been designed to provide an authentic and engaging learning experience for the student body, incorporating peer-learning, real-world assignments, and group working to produce a varied portfolio of student work. Principles of constructive alignment are also incorporated into the curriculum design to bring relevance and interest to the student’s learning. Pace of delivery and differentiated learning have also been considered in the aim of encouraging creativity. In this respect, curriculum design reflects a much broader view than the transmission of a syllabus; the satisfaction and well-being of students, as well as academics and other staff members provide key drivers in planning the curriculum to ensure engagement, variety and manageability, and to avoid burn-out, clashes and withdrawal. Keywords architecture; constructive alignment; curriculum; time-management;
Hybrid Electric Vehicles

Hybrid Electric Vehicles HIGHLIGHTS  PROCESS AND TECHNOLOGY STATUS – A hybrid electrical vehicle (HEV) is a vehicle equipped with either an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electrical motor powered by electrical batteries. In 1997, Toyota sold in Japan the first modern hybrid electric car, the Toyota Prius. Today’s HEVs are an emerging technology in the automotive market, with manufacturers designing and producing hybrid systems for passenger cars, light-duty vehicles, heavy duty vehicles, and even locomotives. The improved efficiency of HEVs over conventional (i.e. non-hybrid) vehicle is achieved by operating a smaller (more efficient) ICE within a narrower, more efficient operational speed/power band and using an electric engine and electrical storage (i.e. the battery) to balance the performance energy requirements. In general, in the current-generation HEVs, the combustion engine provides the main power during long-distance drive while the electrical motor can either complement the ICE or power the vehicle in electric-only mode (as long as energy is available from the battery) during the urban service, where the ICE is less efficient. The battery charge is provided by regenerative braking and excess energy from the ICE (stored when the vehicle has lower power requirements). There are however different grades of hybridization and many configurations of hybrid vehicles, including micro, mild, full hybrids, with different role for the electric motor. Currently, only hybrids combining a petrol or diesel combustion engine with an electric motor are commercially available. Improving battery capacity and technology may enable longer electric drive range and reduce the need for the ICE contribution. New-generation HEVs include batteries rechargeable from the grid (known as plug-in hybrid electrical vehicles, PHEVs, see also ETSAP TB05).
FIELD EVALUATION OF A NISSAN LASER COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEM

The purpose of the study is the evaluation of a laser-based anti-collision system developed by Nissan Motor Co., LTD. The system is intended to provide a warning to the driver when the equipped vehicle is approaching another vehicle or object at a rate which, if maintained, will result in a collision. Task 1 of these tests as a qualitative evaluation of the anti-collision system under normal driving conditions. The Task 2 evaluation was quantitative, and included verification of the range, speed, and closing rate data obtained from the system as well as testing he interference capability of the unit itself, and possible syste m malfunctions due to various atmospheric phenomena. It should also be noted that the system used in these tests is several years old. The system, as well as others developed by other manufacturers, have most likely been improved during intervening years. It is hoped that the results of these tests will not inhibit further development of these systems. Certainly, as technology advances, methods will be developed to overcome the problems discussed in the report.
Estimación de parámetros de un automóvil utilizando algoritmos genéticos

In this article the process of experimental identifi cation of the physical parameters of a vehicle is presented, going from modeling to the parametric estimation. The equations of the lateral dynamics of the vehicle model are built starting off of the laws of physics. It is shown that the chosen variables composing the optimization criterion makes fi nding the solution easier. Finally, using collected real data, optimization is made with a modifi ed genetic algorithm, solving the problem of the existence of several solutions due to the nonlinearity of the model.
The Whitehall reader : the UK's administrative machine in action

Introductory essay: Whitehall since the Fulton report The Whitehall machine - structure and process Civil servants and ministers - power, influence and public policy Loyalties, responsibilities and ethics Reforming Whitehall I - hopes, visions and landmarks Reforming Whitehall II - the critics have their say Whitehall, Parliament and the public Select annotated bibliography Bibliography Index.
Large-Scale Network Design Using Composite Variables: An Application to Air Mobility Command's 30-Day Channel Route Network

Abstract : Each month, the United States Air Force's Air Mobility Command is responsible for designing a large-scale air mobility network - called the channel route network that is used to transport military personnel and cargo throughout the world. Traditionally, planning the channel route network has been a manual process, requiring numerous hours to generate a monthly channel route schedule. We formulate the monthly channel route scheduling problem using traditional network design formulations, and we use Dantzig-Wolfe decomposition to overcome tractability issues. The resulting linear programming bounds on the optimal integer solution are weak, however. Furthermore, the formulation is unable to capture complex operational rules and regulations that govern aircraft flows and cargo flows through the channel route network. To overcome these challenges, we apply a variable redefinition technique known as composite variable modeling. Using this technique, we alleviate the need to explicitly include cargo flow decisions by implicitly capturing them in the design variables, which are then combined to create composite variables. A single composite variable represents the selection of one or more aircraft missions that completely cover a subset of cargo commodities. The resulting formulation is computationally superior to traditional network design formulations because it achieves tighter bounds - allowing excellent integer solutions to be found quickly - and it is able to capture complex operational rules and regulations. We illustrate that the nature of the formulation can be easily changed depending on the desired output by simply modifying the composite variable generation procedures, which does not compromise the structural properties of the formulation that allow it to achieve strong linear programming relaxations and short solution times.
A National Curriculum in Australian Minerals Education: New Generation Flexible Delivery Undergraduate Courses

A new minerals engineering education programme is being developed in Australia which aims to provide tertiary institutions with a package of educationally sound, high quality courses for undergraduates, postgraduates and professionals. The programme is jointly funded by the Minerals Council of Australia (MCA) and the Department of Education Training and Youth Affairs (DETY A) and brings together academics from a number of leading Australian universities, each developing modules in their particular area of expertise. The University of Queensland (UQ) and the Julius Kruttschnitt Minerals Research Centre (JKMRC) are jointly responsible for modules in several areas including comminution, physical separation and circuit design and optimization. Other modules are being developed by the University of South Australia (with the Sir Ian Wark Centre), Curtin University and Murdoch University. The major challenge of the programme is to provide a high standard of education that is accessible to students who may be located at several different institutions and some of whom may be a long distance from the primary course leader. Rather than taking existing course material and putting it 'on the web', the programme aims to improve on past teaching practice through creative pedagogy and the development of interactive multimedia learning resources. Communications technology is used in an unobtrusive way, and the World Wide Web is used to create a flexible, user-friendly learning environment rather than to facilitate delivery of content. This paper describes the instructional design template cUlTently being used and results of early implementation trials with groups of local and remote students.
The Water Footprint of Modern Consumer Society

Water is not only used in the domestic context, but also in agriculture and industry in the production of commercial goods, from food to paper. The water footprint is an indicator of freshwater use that looks at both direct and indirect use of water by a consumer or producer. The water footprint of an individual, community or business is defined as the total volume of freshwater that is used to produce the goods and services consumed by the individual or community or produced by the business. This book shows how the water footprint concept can be used to quantify and map the water use behind consumption and how it can guide reduction of water use to a sustainable level. With a number of case studies, it illustrates water use along supply chains and that water consumption at one place is often linked to water use at another. For example, it is calculated that it takes 15,000 litres of water to produce 1 kg of beef, or 8,000 litres of water to produce a pair of jeans. The book shows that imports of water-intensive products can highly benefit water-scarce countries, but also that this creates a dependency on foreign water resources. The book demonstrates how water-scarce regions sometimes, nevertheless, use lots of water for making export products. It raises the issue of sustainable consumption: how can consumers, businesses and governments get involved in reducing the water footprints of final consumer goods?
Assessment of genetically modified soybean MON 87705 × MON 87708 × MON 89788, for food and feed uses, under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 (application EFSA‐GMO‐NL‐2015‐126)

Abstract Soybean MON 87705 × MON 87708 × MON 89788 (three‐event stack soybean) was produced by conventional crossing to combine three single soybean events: MON 87705, MON 87708 and MON 89788. This combination is intended to alter the fatty acid profile in the seed (in particular increasing the levels of oleic acid) and tolerance to glyphosate‐based and dicamba herbicides. The Genetically Modified Organisms Panel previously assessed the three single soybean events and did not identify safety concerns. No new data on the single soybean events, leading to modification of the original conclusions on their safety have been identified. The molecular characterisation, comparative analysis (agronomic, phenotypic and compositional characteristics) and the outcome of the toxicological, allergenicity and nutritional assessment indicate that the combination of the single soybean events and of the newly expressed proteins in the three‐event stack soybean does not give rise to food and feed safety and nutritional concerns. In the case of accidental release of viable three‐event stack soybean seeds into the environment, this would not raise environmental safety concerns. The post‐market environmental monitoring plan and the reporting intervals are in line with the intended uses of soybean MON 87705 × MON 87708 × MON 89788. Considering the altered fatty acid profile of the three‐event stack soybean, a proposal for post‐market monitoring needs to be provided by the applicant. The GMO Panel notes that in the context of this application EFSA‐GMO‐NL‐2015‐126 the applicant did not provide a 90‐day study on MON 87705 soybean in line with the applicable legal requirements. Therefore, the GMO Panel is not in the position to finalise the risk assessment of soybean MON 87705 × MON 87708 × MON 89788 under the current regulatory frame.
A PCB Character Recognition System Using Rotation-Invariant Features

We propose a character recognition system to extract the component reference names from printed circuit boards (PCBs) automatically. The names are written in horizontal, vertical, reverse-horizontal and reverse-vertical directions. Also various symbols and figures are included in PCBs. To recognize the character and orientation effectively, we divide the recognizer into two stages: character classification stage and orientation classification stage. The character classification stage consists of two sub-recognizers and a verifier. The rotaion-invarint features of input pattern are then used to identify the character independent of orientation. Each recognizer is implemented as a neural network, and the weight values of verifier are obtained by genetic algorithm. In the orientation classification stage, the input pattern is compared with reference patterns to identify the orientation. Experimental results are presented to verify the usefulness of the proposed system.
Comparison of postoperative changes in radial peripapillary capillary density between femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery and conventional phacoemulsification surgery using optical coherence tomography angiography

Purpose: To assess differences in post-surgical radial peripapillary capillary (RPC) density changes between femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) and conventional phacoemulsification surgery (CPS) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Methods: Fifty-two eyes of 52 patients were enrolled in this study. Depending on their preference, patients with age-related cataract underwent FLACS or CPS. Automated peripapillary maps and capillary density calculations were retrospectively evaluated using OCTA before surgery and on day 1 and months 1 and 3 postoperatively.Results: The whole-image and peripapillary RPC densities were lower at day 1 and months 1 and 3 postoperatively than before surgery in the FLACS group (all P < 0.05). However, there was no change in the whole-image and peripapillary RPC densities before and after surgery, across different time-points, in the CPS group (all P > 0.05). Moreover, comparison of data corresponding to each time-point between the FLACS and CPS groups showed no significant differences in any metrics prior to surgery (all P > 0.05). However, the whole-image and peripapillary RPC densities were significantly different at day 1 and month 1 after the surgery (all P < 0.05). At the 3-month follow-up, we did not observe significant differences (all P > 0.05). Conclusions: Postoperative whole-image and peripapillary RPC densities were lower in the FLACS group than in the CPS across time-points. While the short-term RPC density changes were resolved, to elucidate the long-term implications of FLACS, especially for eyes with glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, etc., further investigations are required.
Development of a cost-effective line probe assay for rapid detection and differentiation of Mycobacterium species

Background Line probe assay (LPA) is one of the most accurate diagnostic tools for detection of different Mycobacterium species. There are several commercial kits based on line probe assay for detection of Mycobacterium species. Because of their high cost, especially for underdeveloped and developing countries, and the discrepancy of NTM prevalence across geographic regions, it would be reasonable to consider the development of an in-house LPA. The aim of this study was to develop a LPA to detect and differentiate mycobacterial species, and also to evaluate the usefulness of PCR-LPA for direct application on clinical samples. Method One pair of biotinylated primers and fifteen designed DNA oligonucleotide probes were used based on multiple aligned ITS sequences. Specific binding of the PCR amplified products to the probes immobilized on a strip of nitrocellulose membrane was evaluated by hybridization method. Experiments were performed three times on separate days to evaluate the repeatability of the assay. Further, evaluation of the PCR-LPA was carried out directly on 9 clinical samples and cultivated isolates. Results All the fifteen probes used in this study were hybridized specifically to ITS sequences of the corresponding standard species. Results were reproducible for all of the strains in different days. Mycobacterium species of nine clinical specimens and their relevant cultivated isolates were correctly identified by PCR-LPA and confirmed by sequencing. Conclusions In this study, we described a PCR-LPA which is readily applicable in clinical laboratory. This assay is a fast, cost-effective and highly specific method which requires no radioactive materials.
SWEPT PATHS OF LARGE TRUCKS IN RIGHT TURNS OF SMALL RADIUS

When a large truck makes a turn of large radius, the driver may make a steady steering input and the swept path of the vehicle through the turn may be computed by an offtracking procedure. However, when a large truck must make a turn of small radius, such as a right turn at an urban intersection, the driver must devise a more complex steering input that minimizes intrusion of the vehicle into the space of other vehicles and also keeps the trailer vehicle units from encroaching on the curb. Determination of the steering input necessary for such a turn is defined as a steering-path problem. In this paper is described a purely geometric approach to the solution of the steering-path problem that results in steering inputs and swept paths typical of those observed in real turning maneuvers by large trucks. The method has been implemented as a computer program for IBM mainframe computers.
MDraw - A tool for cooperative work in the MultiG telepresence environment

This paper will discuss MDraw, a tool that supports cooperative work in the Tele-presence environment. The Tele-Presence project lies within a Swedish research program called MultiG, wich does research on distributed multimedia applications and high-speed networks. In the Tele-Presence system, several users can simultaneously reside in a virtual world where they can see graphical representations of each other. MDraw is a simple drawing tool, shaped like a whiteboard, that can be placed in any virtual world where it can be seen and accessed by all users present. The whiteboard supports the creation and manipulation of simple objects, like lines and ellipses, and also offers a video function that gives users the ability to display a live video picture on the board. Drawing is accomplished by using a wand, which is a six-dimensional interaction device.