title: Propositionalisation of multiple sequence alignments using probabilistic models

authors: Mutter, Stefan

subjects: computer science

abstract: Multiple sequence alignments play a central role in Bioinformatics. Most alignment representations are designed to facilitate knowledge extraction by human experts. Additionally statistical models like Profile Hidden Markov Models are used as representations. They offer the advantage to provide sound, probabilistic scores. The basic idea we present in this paper is to use the structure of a Profile Hidden Markov Model for propositionalisation. This way we get a simple, extendable representation of multiple sequence alignments which facilitates further analysis by Machine Learning algorighms.

text: Propositionalisation of multiple sequence alignments using probabilistic models Multiple sequence alignments play a central role in Bioinformatics. Most alignment representations are designed to facilitate knowledge extraction by human experts. Additionally statistical models like Profile Hidden Markov Models are used as representations. They offer the advantage to provide sound, probabilistic scores. The basic idea we present in this paper is to use the structure of a Profile Hidden Markov Model for propositionalisation. This way we get a simple, extendable representation of multiple sequence alignments which facilitates further analysis by Machine Learning algorighms.

year: 2008

title: Analysis of a photovoltaic/thermal solar collector for building integration

authors: Anderson, Timothy Nicholas

subjects: photovoltaics

abstract: The idea of combining photovoltaic and solar thermal collectors (PVT collectors) to provide electrical and heat energy is not new, however it is an area that has received only limited attention. With concern growing over energy sources and their usage, PVTs have become a focus point of interest in the field of solar energy research. Although PVTs are not as prevalent as solar thermal systems, the integration of photovoltaic and solar thermal collectors into the walls or roofing structure of a building could provide greater opportunity for the use of renewable solar energy technologies in domestic, commercial and industrial applications. As such, the design of a novel building integrated photovoltaic/thermal (BIPVT) solar collector is theoretically analysed through the use of a modified Hottel-Whillier model. The thermal efficiency under a range of conditions was subsequently determined and results showing how key design parameters influence the performance of the BIPVT system are presented.

text: Analysis of a photovoltaic/thermal solar collector for building integration The idea of combining photovoltaic and solar thermal collectors (PVT collectors) to provide electrical and heat energy is not new, however it is an area that has received only limited attention. With concern growing over energy sources and their usage, PVTs have become a focus point of interest in the field of solar energy research. Although PVTs are not as prevalent as solar thermal systems, the integration of photovoltaic and solar thermal collectors into the walls or roofing structure of a building could provide greater opportunity for the use of renewable solar energy technologies in domestic, commercial and industrial applications. As such, the design of a novel building integrated photovoltaic/thermal (BIPVT) solar collector is theoretically analysed through the use of a modified Hottel-Whillier model. The thermal efficiency under a range of conditions was subsequently determined and results showing how key design parameters influence the performance of the BIPVT system are presented.

year: 2007

title: Indigenous cancer research: Reflections on roles and responsibilities

authors: Scott, Nina

abstract: When asked for a commentary on the roles and responsibilities of nonindigenous researchers in indigenous cancer research, several potential nonindigenous coauthors were contacted. The majority wanted to “run for the hills,” signifying that many researchers feel uncomfortable, out of their depth, and fearful regarding methodologies and principles for safe and effective research with and for indigenous peoples.

Most health research is relevant for indigenous peoples, and most researchers are nonindigenous. Thus, if researchers don’t engage with indigenous research principles, health research can and does result in significant harm for indigenous peoples.1,2 Nonengagement may also prevent potential positive outcomes for indigenous communities (eg, health gain, workforce and community development) and impinge on indigenous rights to health and development.3

In this commentary, we outline our reflections and observations on the roles and responsibilities of nonindigenous cancer researchers and identify some of the principles that guide researchers in Aotearoa (Aotearoa is the name given by the indigenous Māori for New Zealand). We do not attempt to provide an in-depth analysis or comprehensive best practice summary, but hope to encourage more discussion in this critical and evolving area.

text: Indigenous cancer research: Reflections on roles and responsibilities When asked for a commentary on the roles and responsibilities of nonindigenous researchers in indigenous cancer research, several potential nonindigenous coauthors were contacted. The majority wanted to “run for the hills,” signifying that many researchers feel uncomfortable, out of their depth, and fearful regarding methodologies and principles for safe and effective research with and for indigenous peoples.

Most health research is relevant for indigenous peoples, and most researchers are nonindigenous. Thus, if researchers don’t engage with indigenous research principles, health research can and does result in significant harm for indigenous peoples.1,2 Nonengagement may also prevent potential positive outcomes for indigenous communities (eg, health gain, workforce and community development) and impinge on indigenous rights to health and development.3

In this commentary, we outline our reflections and observations on the roles and responsibilities of nonindigenous cancer researchers and identify some of the principles that guide researchers in Aotearoa (Aotearoa is the name given by the indigenous Māori for New Zealand). We do not attempt to provide an in-depth analysis or comprehensive best practice summary, but hope to encourage more discussion in this critical and evolving area.

year: 2020