ppxscal/embedding_network huggingface dataset:
A geometric active contour model without re-initialization for color images
Authors: Ying Zheng, Guangyao Li, Xiehua Sun, Xinmin Zhou
Venue: Image and Vision Computing (2009)

A geometric active contour model without re-initialization for color images is proposed in this paper. It combines directional information about edge location based on local squared contrast as a part of driving force, together with the improved geodesic active contour containing Bayes error based statistical region information as well as an extra term that penalizes deviation of the level set function from a signed distance function. All these measures are integrated in a unified frame thus the costly re-initialization procedure can be completely eliminated. Experimental results on real color images have shown that our model can extract contours of objects in images precisely and its performance is much better than the Geodesic-Aided C-V (GACV) model.
Using a Rule Language for Capturing Semantics in Web-Based Systems
Authors: Tanel Tammet, Hele-Mai Haav, Vello Kadarpik, Marko Kääramees
Venue: Proceeding of the 2007 conference on Databases and Information Systems IV: Selected Papers from the Seventh International Baltic Conference DB&IS'2006 (2007)

Development of web-based applications needs tools in order to make the application development more effective by using/re-using business rules as well as web services. These tools should incorporate facilities for capturing different semantic aspects of an application. This paper presents a new conceptual and technological framework of using a rule language and rule engine for capturing semantics in modern web-based systems. The framework enables to cover two aspects of semantics in web-based systems: business rules and web service composition logic. The technology consists of 2 main parts: the application server Xstone for creating 3-layered systems and the RqlGandalf rule solver. The middleware server Xstone connects to Oracle, PostgreSQL databases and the RqlGandalf rule system. The RqlGandalf rule system is targeted for two different tasks: defining and using business logic rules as well as for rule-based synthesis of complex queries over web services. The presented rule-based system development technology is implemented for the Linux platform as open source software.
Dynamic Orderings for AND/OR Branch-and-Bound Search in Graphical Models
Authors: Radu Marinescu, Rina Dechter
Venue: Proceeding of the 2006 conference on ECAI 2006: 17th European Conference on Artificial Intelligence August 29 -- September 1, 2006, Riva del Garda, Italy (2006)

AND/OR search spaces have recently been introduced as a unifying paradigm for advanced algorithmic schemes for graphical models. The main virtue of this representation is its sensitivity to the structure of the model, which can translate into exponential time savings for search algorithms. Since the variable selection can have a dramatic impact on search performance when solving optimization tasks, we introduce in this paper a new dynamic AND/OR Branch-and-Bound algorithmic framework which accommodates variable ordering heuristics. The efficiency of the dynamic AND/OR approach is demonstrated empirically in a variety of domains.
Computability and Complexity Issues of Extended RDF
Authors: Anastasia Analyti, Grigoris Antoniou, Carlos Viegas Damásio, Gerd Wagner
Venue: Proceeding of the 2008 conference on ECAI 2008: 18th European Conference on Artificial Intelligence (2008)

ERDF stable model semantics is a recently proposed semantics for ERDF ontologies and a faithful extension of RDFS semantics on RDF graphs. Unfortunately, ERDF stable model semantics is in general undecidable. In this paper, we elaborate on the computability and complexity issues of the ERDF stable model semantics.
Handling Ambiguous Inverse Problems by the Adaptive Genetic Strategy hp---HGS
Authors: Barbara Barabasz, Robert Schaefer, Maciej Paszyński
Venue: Proceedings of the 9th International Conference on Computational Science (2009)

We propose the new multi-deme, adaptive genetic strategy hp---HGS that allow solving ill posed parametric inverse problems that may posses multiple solutions. The strategy was obtained by combining hp-adaptive Finite Element Method with the Hierarchic Genetic Strategy. Its efficiency results from the coupled adaptation of the accuracy of solving optimization problem and the accuracy of hp---FEM direct problem solver. We present the simple L-shape domain benchmark that posses exactly two solutions. Test results show how the tunning of hp---HGS may affect on the number of solutions to be found. Moreover we discuss the artifacts that may appear by the particular setting of genetic operations.
Progress on the Progressive Party Problem
Authors: Helmut Simonis
Venue: Proceedings of the 6th International Conference on Integration of AI and OR Techniques in Constraint Programming for Combinatorial Optimization Problems (2009)

We report new results for solving the progressive party problem with finite domain constraints, which are competitive with the best local search results in the literature.When introduced in [1], the progressive party problem was a show case for finite domain constraint programming, since a solution of the original problem for 6 time periods could be found in 26 minutes with Ilog Solver, while an integer programming model was not successful. Improved results using finite domains were reported in [2]. Since then, alternative solutions using MILP have been proposed, while local search methods have been significantly faster, as well as more stable for given problem variations. The best results (to my knowledge) are from [3].
Greta: an interactive expressive ECA system
Authors: Radoslaw Niewiadomski, Elisabetta Bevacqua, Maurizio Mancini, Catherine Pelachaud
Venue: Proceedings of The 8th International Conference on Autonomous Agents and Multiagent Systems - Volume 2 (2009)

We have developed a general purpose use and modular architecture of an Embodied Conversational Agent (ECA) called Greta. Our 3D agent is able to communicate using verbal and nonverbal channels like gaze, head and torso movements, facial expressions and gestures. It follows the SAIBA framework [10] and the MPEG4 [6] standards. Our system is optimized to be used in interactive applications.
Choosing integration methods when solving differential equations
Authors: Michael C. Wittmann, Katrina Black
Venue: Proceedings of the 8th international conference on International conference for the learning sciences - Volume 3 (2008)

There are two common types of solution methods for solving simple integrals: using integration constants or using limits of integration. We use the resources framework to model student solution methods. Preliminary results indicate both problematic and meaningful intersections of physical meaning and mathematical formalism when solving linked integrals.
33 Million People in the Room: How to Create, Influence, and Run a Successful Business with Social Networking, 1st edition
Authors: Juliette Powell
Venue:  (2009)

This is the eBook version of the printed book. If the print book includes a CD-ROM, this content is not included within the eBook version.Social networks are no fad. Theyre a permanent reality: one that offers immense opportunities to smart, innovative businesses. Now, top social networking consultant Juliette Powell reveals how dozens of innovators are driving real ROI through social networksand how you can, too. Powells wide-ranging research,including coverageon Barack Obama's successful online strategy in his bid for the presidency, focuses on technology, media and gaming companies, leaders in fashion, beauty, publishing, finance, retail, event planning, and beyond. These powerful narratives illuminate the reality of doing business on todays social networks as never before. Through them, Powell introduces new best practices, shows how to avoid crucial pitfalls, and helps you prepare for the newest trends in online social networking. Drawing on the latest research, Powell connects the dots, uncovering the human dynamics and patterns that consistently underlie successful social networking initiatives. Along the way, she offers practical tools and advice for optimizing every stage of your own social networking initiativefrom planning through measurement, and beyond. Getting on, getting started, and making social networks work for youDefining and implementing your optimal social networking strategy Leveraging the amazing power of the microcelebrityAchieving worldwide impact in the niche that matters to you Transforming social and cultural capital into financial capitalBe generous, build your trusted personal networkand discover all you get in return Profiting from the knowledge you never knew you hadOpening your organizations own social networking channels inside and out
UEMan: A tool to manage user evaluation in development environments
Authors: Shah Rukh Humayoun, Yael Dubinsky, Tiziana Catarci
Venue: Proceedings of the 2009 IEEE 31st International Conference on Software Engineering (2009)

One of the challenges in software development is to collect and analyze the end users' feedback in an effective and efficient manner. In this paper we present a tool to manage user evaluation alongside the process of software development. The tool is based on the idea that user evaluation should be managed iteratively from within the integrated development environment (IDE) in order to provide high quality user interface. The main capabilities include creating the experiment object as part of the software project; deriving development tasks from the analysis of evaluation data; and tracing these tasks to and from the code. Further, we provide a library to enable development of Java aspects for creation of automatic measures to increase the body of the evaluation data. Using this tool, development teams can manage user-centered design (UCD) activities at the IDE level, hence developing software products with an adequate level of usability.
The Challenge of Change: reducing conflict in implementing e-learning
Authors: Rosa Michaelson
Venue: Proceeding of the 2005 conference on Towards the Learning Grid: Advances in Human Learning Services (2005)

This paper calls for the design of the European Grid for Learning to take note of important issues which have arisen in previous e-learning cycles in the UK. In particular, low take-up of products and services by lecturers has been explained in terms of techno-fear, or ignorance of e-learning potential. These claims are unsubstantiated. Other explanations are possible for the observed resistance of the educational specialist to the use of educational technology. Rather than ignore possible areas of conflict, or to assume (after Foucault) that any change results in shifts of power which produce inevitable counter-balances from a threatened group, it is possible to use resistance to change as an important part of the design process. To this end, I discuss the findings of an analysis of recent UK-wide initiatives in C&IT and e-learning. The issues raised by participants of the many different groups involved have implications for the take-up of future Grid-based learning. In particular, the needs of educators are identified as crucial to the effective deployment of e-learning.
A Novel Approach to Spatio-Temporal Video Analysis and Retrieval
Authors: Sameer Singh, Wei Ren, Maneesha Singh
Venue: Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Computer Vision/Computer Graphics CollaborationTechniques (2009)

In this paper, we propose a novel Spatio-Temporal Analysis and Retrieval model to extract attributes for video category classification. First, the spatial relationships and temporal nature of the video object in a frame is coded as the sequence of binary string ---VRstring. Then, the similarity between shots is matched as sequential features in hyperspaces. The results show that VRstring allows us to define higher level semantic features capturing the main narrative structures of the video. We also compare our algorithm with state of the art longest common substring finding video retrieval model by Adjeroh et.al.[1] on the Minerva international video benchmark.
Fair electronic exchange using biometrics
Authors: Harkeerat Bedi, Li Yang, Joseph Kizza
Venue: Proceedings of the 5th Annual Workshop on Cyber Security and Information Intelligence Research: Cyber Security and Information Intelligence Challenges and Strategies (2009)

Fair exchange between two parties can be defined as where: either both parties acquire what they expected or neither does. Protocols that facilitate such transactions are known as "fair exchange protocols". We analyze one such protocol for contract signing that was presented by Micali. In this paper we show that Micali's protocol is not completely fair and demonstrate the possibilities for one party to cheat by obtaining the other party's commitment and not offer his. A revised version of this protocol by Bao et al. provides improved fairness by handling the above mentioned attack but does not handle replay attacks. Our proposed protocol improves upon the revised protocol by addressing replay attacks and removing redundant information from signatures thus making the overall transmission smaller. Our protocol also provides client authentication using a finger print based authentication technique and our use of hybrid encryption using Elliptic Curves instead of first generation techniques further improves efficiency.
Hf- and Zr-based alkaline earth perovskite dielectrics for memory applications
Authors: G. Łupina, O. Seifarth, G. Kozłowski, P. Dudek, J. Dbrowski, G. Lippert, H. -J. Müssig
Venue: Microelectronic Engineering (2009)

We investigate a group of Hf- and Zr-based dielectrics crystallizing in the cubic perovskite structure for memory applications. The dielectrics are deposited in the form of thin layers (
An algorithm based on structural analysis for model-based fault diagnosis
Authors: Esteban R. Gelso, Sandra M. Castillo, Joaquim Armengol
Venue: Proceeding of the 2008 conference on Artificial Intelligence Research and Development: Proceedings of the 11th International Conference of the Catalan Association for Artificial Intelligence (2008)

This paper presents a diagnosis system in which, an algorithm automatically finds all minimal structurally overdetermined (MSO) sets in a structural model of a system. It combines a first set of MSO sets to get the additional MSO sets, which were obtained after determining a complete matching between equations and unknown variables. Finding the complete set is useful for the diagnosis task increasing the fault isolability due to the fact that it can provide different signatures to each fault. The efficiency of the algorithm for finding all MSO sets is illustrated using the DAMADICS benchmark, which is a pneumatically-actuated control valve.
On What Goes On: The Ontology of Processes and Events
Authors: Antony Galton
Venue: Proceeding of the 2006 conference on Formal Ontology in Information Systems: Proceedings of the Fourth International Conference (FOIS 2006) (2006)

The purpose of this talk is to advocate a particular way of thinking about processes and their relationship to objects and events. The point of view put forward is unorthodox in that it regards processes as being in some ways more closely akin to objects than to events, specifically with regard to their relationship to the directly experienced world and their capacity for undergoing change over time. A consequence of this is that the traditional distinction between continuants and occurrents becomes overshadowed by a more prominent distinction, that between the world of direct experience (made up of, inter alia, objects and processes) and the world of historical record (made up of events). In conclusion, a number of remarks are offered concerning the implications of this shift of viewpoint for formal ontology.
An Evaluation Tool for Collaborative Learning Based on Communication
Authors: Noriko Hanakawa, Nao Ikemiya
Venue: Proceeding of the 2005 conference on Towards Sustainable and Scalable Educational Innovations Informed by the Learning Sciences: Sharing Good Practices of Research, Experimentation and Innovation (2005)

An evaluation too for collaborative learning has been developed. The tool is based on communication which occurs during the collaborative work. The tool consists of two sub-tools: a monitoring tool and a scoring tool. The monitoring tool can evaluate automatically students' behaviors during collaborative work. The scoring tool can score automatically output products such as reports. The two tools are established by natural language techniques: TF/IDF method, vector space model method. As a result of experiments, we confirmed that the tool was able to provide rough evaluation of individual student in the collaborative learning. In addition, we confirmed that the tool has a weakness in the evaluation's accuracies when students copy & paste sentences from web-sites to their reports.
UbiGate: a gateway to transform discovery information into presence information
Authors: Tegawendé François d'Assise Bissyandé, Laurent Réveillère, Yérom-David Bromberg
Venue: Proceedings of the 4th international workshop on Services integration in pervasive environments (2009)

Pervasive computing involves various entities which need to coordinate tasks and share resources through different service discovery protocols. However, the multiplicity and the incompatibility of those protocols have made interconnectivity problematic. Moreover, most service discovery protocols require a strong participation of users to genuinely play their part. Consequently, service discovery in a pervasive environment has become a challenge that researchers as well as practitioners have tried to overcome through various approaches. Nevertheless, existing solutions mostly consist of designing new protocols which usually address specific application needs while participating in the increase of heterogeneity. To address these problems, we present a new paradigm for service discovery involving the use of a gateway, called UbiGate, and relying on SIP, a widespread signaling protocol. Centered around the notion of presence, UbiGate enables real time availability of service information while hiding the heterogeneity of underlying protocols. We have developed a prototype of UbiGate supporting service discovery protocols such as the protocol used in Bluetooth service discovery mechanism and a protocol enabling the detection mechanism of RFID. Preliminary results show that UbiGate enables new service discovery protocols, either IP or non-IP based, to be seamlessly supported with no significant overhead in discovery latency.
Proposal for Digital Partners Project
Authors: Chris Davies, Jingjing Zhang
Venue: Proceeding of the 2006 conference on Learning by Effective Utilization of Technologies: Facilitating Intercultural Understanding (2006)

In this paper, we describe the rationale behind an innovative interdisciplinary research project that brings together social science and computer science methods to develop and test a Digital Partner computer interface designed to support the learning and self-esteem of adults normally excluded from formal and lifelong learning opportunities.
Fragment, tag, enrich, and send: Enhancing social sharing of video
Authors: Pablo Cesar, Dick C. A. Bulterman, Jack Jansen, David Geerts, Hendrik Knoche, William Seager
Venue: ACM Transactions on Multimedia Computing, Communications, and Applications (TOMCCAP) (2009)

The migration of media consumption to personal computers retains distributed social viewing, but only via nonsocial, strictly personal interfaces. This article presents an architecture, and implementation for media sharing that allows for enhanced social interactions among users. Using a mixed-device model, our work allows targeted, personalized enrichment of content. All recipients see common content, while differentiated content is delivered to individuals via their personal secondary screens. We describe the goals, architecture, and implementation of our system in this article. In order to validate our results, we also present results from two user studies involving disjoint sets of test participants.
Maximizing network security given a limited budget
Authors: Nwokedi C. Idika, Brandeis H. Marshall, Bharat K. Bhargava
Venue: The Fifth Richard Tapia Celebration of Diversity in Computing Conference: Intellect, Initiatives, Insight, and Innovations (2009)

In order to safeguard an organization's networked assets, a network administrator must decide how to harden the network. To aid the decision-making process, network administrators may use attack graphs, which, through analysis, yield network hardening suggestions. A critical drawback of currently available analyses is the lack of consideration for the network administrator's defense budget. We overcome this shortcoming by modeling the problem of choosing security measures given a finite budget as a combinatorial optimization problem. We call this problem the Security Measures Choosing Problem (SMCP). Dynamic programming is used to provide optimal solutions.
BlackBerry Storm 9500 Made Simple: For 9500, 9510, 9520, 9530 and all 95xx Series BlackBerry Storm Smartphones
Authors: Gary Mazo, Martin Trautschold
Venue:  (2009)

This guide book is unique in that it helps both Windows and Apple Mac users with all aspects of the BlackBerry Storm Some of the highlights include: Dozens of hidden or little-known time-saving tips and tricks. Learning all the ins and outs of the new Touch Screen Interface Synchronizing your BlackBerry with your Windows or Mac computer. How to squeeze every ounce of power from the Address Book, Calendar, Tasks and MemoPad. How to become Master of Your BlackBerry Email How to use Google Sync for true Wireless Sync without an Enterprise Server Support for both BlackBerry Internet Service and Corporate BlackBerry Enterprise Server users. Tips and tricks to unlock the rich Media Features of the BlackBerry Storm. How turn your Storm into something that could replace a video and audio iPod How to use your Storm for Mapping (including Google Maps.) Learn how to go Online as well as update your Facebook and Myspace pages right from your BlackBerry
Automated Deduction for Logics of Default Reasoning
Authors: Laura Giordano, Valentina Gliozzi, Nicola Olivetti, Gian Luca Pozzato
Venue: Proceeding of the 2006 conference on ECAI 2006: 17th European Conference on Artificial Intelligence August 29 -- September 1, 2006, Riva del Garda, Italy (2006)

We present a tableau calculus for the rational logic R of default reasoning, introduced by Kraus, Lehmann and Magidor. Our calculus is obtained by introducing suitable modalities to interpret conditional assertions, it makes use of labels to represent possible worlds, and it can be used to provide a decision procedure for R.
On the Expressive Power of the Relational Algebra on Finite Sets of Relation Pairs
Authors: George H. L. Fletcher, Marc Gyssens, Jan Paredaens, Dirk Van Gucht
Venue: IEEE Transactions on Knowledge and Data Engineering (2009)

We give a language-independent characterization of the expressive power of the relational algebra on finite sets of source-target relation instance pairs. The associated decision problem is shown to be cograph-isomorphism hard and in coNP. The main result is also applied in providing a new characterization of the generic relational queries.