Nested-Loops Tiling for Parallelization and Locality Optimization

Data locality improvement and nested loops parallelization are two complementary and competing approaches for optimizing loop nests that constitute a large portion of computation times in scientific and engineering programs. While there are effective methods for each one of these, prior studies have paid less attention to address these two simultaneously. This paper proposes a unified approach that integrates these two techniques to obtain an appropriate locality conscious loop transformation to partition the loop iteration space into outer parallel tiled loops. The approach is based on the polyhedral model to achieve a multidimensional affine scheduling as a transformation that result the largest groups of tilable loops with maximum coarse grain parallelism, as far as possible. Furthermore, tiles will be scheduled on processor cores to exploit maximum data reuse through scheduling tiles with high volume of data sharing on the same core consecutively or on different cores with shared cache at around the same time

Decision tree learning for intelligent mobile robot navigation

The replication of human intelligence, learning and reasoning by means of computer algorithms is termed Artificial Intelligence (Al) and the interaction of such algorithms with the physical world can be achieved using robotics. The work described in this thesis investigates the applications of concept learning (an approach which takes its inspiration from biological motivations and from survival instincts in particular) to robot control and path planning. The methodology of concept learning has been applied using learning decision trees (DTs) which induce domain knowledge from a finite set of training vectors which in turn describe systematically a physical entity and are used to train a robot to learn new concepts and to adapt its behaviour. To achieve behaviour learning, this work introduces the novel approach of hierarchical learning and knowledge decomposition to the frame of the reactive robot architecture. Following the analogy with survival instincts, the robot is first taught how to survive in very simple and homogeneous environments, namely a world without any disturbances or any kind of "hostility". Once this simple behaviour, named a primitive, has been established, the robot is trained to adapt new knowledge to cope with increasingly complex environments by adding further worlds to its existing knowledge. The repertoire of the robot behaviours in the form of symbolic knowledge is retained in a hierarchy of clustered decision trees (DTs) accommodating a number of primitives. To classify robot perceptions, control rules are synthesised using symbolic knowledge derived from searching the hierarchy of DTs. A second novel concept is introduced, namely that of multi-dimensional fuzzy associative memories (MDFAMs). These are clustered fuzzy decision trees (FDTs) which are trained locally and accommodate specific perceptual knowledge. Fuzzy logic is incorporated to deal with inherent noise in sensory data and to merge conflicting behaviours of the DTs. In this thesis, the feasibility of the developed techniques is illustrated in the robot applications, their benefits and drawbacks are discussed

Dynamic Studies of Multiterminal DC-AC Systems

In transient stability programs that use a static dc network representation, the procedure to determine the control mode of operation and the solution of the multiterminal dc system is complex and time consuming. A systematic approach that is based on a linear programming formulation is presented in this thesis. The constraints incorporated in the LB formulation automatically ensure that the solution obtained is feasible. It is shown that the method is not only computationally efficient but also versatile in its ability to handle many of the common control characteristics, such as those of the constant angle (extinction and ignition), constant voltage, constant power and current controls, voltage dependent current order limiter (VDCOL), end-stops, and also simulate the dynamics of power modulation and restart. As some applications require a three-phase detailed representation of the ac/dc system, a technique for detailed simulation of the dc converter and controls is also presented. The developed dynamic simulation program is used to investigate the problem of on-line network flow control using converter controls of a multiterminal dc system. In view of fast response of the dc powers to converter controls, a control method is proposed that extends the application of ac network flow control to dynamic situations. Possible applications of the method are to regulate power flows in a select group of ac lines, to smoothly steer the ac/dc system from its present state to some desired state and to enhance the dynamic performance of the ac system by controlling the transient changes in key or ’’backbone” ac lines

Microhardness of demineralized enamel following home bleaching and laser-assisted in office bleaching

Background: There is little data regarding the effect of tooth whitening on microhardness of white spot lesions. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of home-bleaching and laser-assisted in-office bleaching on microhardness of demineralized enamel. Material and Methods: Forty bovine incisors were selected and immersed in a demineralizing solution for 12 weeks to induce white spot lesions. Enamel blocks were prepared and randomly assigned to two groups of 20 each. The first group underwent home bleaching with 15% carbamide peroxide which was applied for 8 hours a day over a period of 15 days. In the second group, in-office bleaching was performed by 40% hydrogen peroxide and powered by irradiation from an 810 nm gallium-aluminum-arsenide (GaAlAs) diode laser (CW, 2W). This process was performed for 3 sessions every seven days, in 15 days. The specimens were stored in Fusayama Meyer artificial saliva during the experiment. Surface microhardness was assessed before and after the bleaching therapies in both groups. Results: Microhardness decreased significantly following both home bleaching and laser-assisted in-office bleaching ( p <0.05). There were no significant differences in hardness values among the two groups either before ( p =0.131) or after ( p =0.182) the bleaching procedures. Conclusions: Tooth whitening through home bleaching or laser-assisted in-office bleaching can result in a significant reduction in microhardness of white spot lesions. Therefore, it is suggested to take protective measures on bleached demineralized enamel

The child in ICC proceedings

International law and state practice mirrors the recognition of children’s particular need for protection during peacetime but also in situations in which international crimes are being committed, the prosecution of international crimes committed against children before international courts and tribunals is well embedded. While international prosecutions are thus in line with the overall development of protecting children from the consequences of armed conflict and large scale violence, the involvement of the child in international criminal proceedings also gives rise to new questions which relate to the procedural involvement of the child. As child participation in the proceedings before the International Criminal Court (ICC) constitutes a matter of fact, one may raise the question whether such participation is a welcome development. This study examines the procedural implications of child participation and thereby intents to contribute legal views and perspectives to the underlying debate on the adequacy of child participation in ICC proceedings.Gieskes StichtingSovereignty, International Governance and Global Value

Radiologische Untersuchung des Os temporale mittels digitaler Volumentomographie und Computertomographie -Eine vergleichende Untersuchung an anatomischen Felsenbeinpräparaten

Zu den Standardtechniken der radiologischen Untersuchung des Felsenbeins gehört heutzutage die hochauflösende Computertomographie in axialer und koronarer Schichtung. Die digitale Volumentomographie hingegen ist ein relativ neuartiges Verfahren, das bisher vor allem in der Mund-Kiefer-Gesichtschirurgie und der Zahnheilkunde genutzt wurde und in der Diagnostik des Os temporale ein neues Einsatzgebiet gefunden hat. Die Vorteile der DVT liegen in einer vergleichsweise bis zu zehn Mal geringeren Strahlenexposition bei einer deutlich höheren Auflösung. Das Ziel dieser Arbeit bestand darin, den Stellenwert der DVT in der radiologischen Felsenbeindiagnostik zu untersuchen. Dazu wurden im ersten Teil der Arbeit 38 anatomische Felsenbeinpräparate mit dem DVT und dem HR-CT gescannt. Anhand der akquirierten Bilder in koronarer und axialer Projektionsebene wurde die Darstellung von 43 funktionell wichtigen anatomischen Strukturen der Felsenbeinpräparate überprüft und verglichen. Im zweiten Teil der Untersuchung wurden an acht Präparaten rekonstruktive Eingriffe in Form von Tympanoplastiken Typ III b und c und Stapesplastiken mit verschiedenen Materialien wie Gold, Titan, Ionomer, Keramik und Platin durchgeführt. Anschließend erfolgte die Bildgebung mit dem HR-CT und dem DVT in bekannter Schichtung, um die Lage der Prothesen sowie die Darstellung der in der Nähe der Prothese liegenden anatomischen Strukturen vergleichend zu analysieren. Die DVT ermöglichte eine statistisch signifikant bessere Visualisierung von zwölf anatomischen Strukturen im Felsenbein wie z.B. den beiden Stapesschenkeln, der Steigbügelfußplatte und rundem und ovalem Fenster. Vor allem die Gehörknöchelchenkette konnte in all ihren Feinheiten gut erkannt werden. Funktionell wichtige und filigrane Anteile der Ossikel wie die Stapesschenkel waren seltener vom Partialvolumeneffekt betroffen als im CT. Mehrfach konnten Strukturen die mittels DVT zu sehen waren mit dem CT nicht oder nur fragmentiert abgegrenzt werden. Auch die Lamina spiralis ossea war in den DVT-Bildern in koronarer Ebene statistisch signifikant besser zu erkennen. Zudem kamen Weichteilstrukturen wie die Sehne des M. tensor tympani und Ligamente der Paukenhöhle mittels DVT statistisch signifikant besser zur Darstellung. Der konstruktionsbedingte geringere Weichteilkontrast des Flächendetektors des DVT fiel demnach in den untersuchten Felsenbeinpräparaten nicht nachteilig auf. Die Darstellung der Prothesen variierte je nach verwendetem Material. Dementsprechend zeigten Prothesen aus Keramik, Ionomer und Titan eine weitaus bessere Darstellung als Implantate aus Gold und Platin. Die Goldimplantate riefen dabei unabhängig vom Prothesentyp die gröbsten Artefakte hervor. Diese wirkten sich insbesondere in den CT-Bildern stark auf die Qualität aus. Die Prothesenlage war dadurch nur schlecht zu beurteilen und anatomische Strukturen wie z.B. die Steigbügelfußplatte wurden von den Artefakten überlagert. Die anatomischen Strukturen in der Nähe der Keramik-, Ionomer- und Titanimplantate konnten aufgrund ihrer geringen Artefaktneigung auf den DVT-Bildern besonders gut abgegrenzt werden. Im CT war es jedoch mehrfach durch die Entstehung des Partialvolumeneffekts nicht möglich die Ankopplung der Mittelohrimplantate an die Ossikel zu beurteilen. Die vorliegende Arbeit hebt einige Vorteile der Felsenbeinbildgebung mittels DVT hervor. Eine hohe Zahl an Felsenbeinstrukturen, welche eine große Relevanz in der Diagnostik und Therapie von Felsenbeinerkrankungen haben, lassen sich statistisch signifikant besser mit dem DVT als mit dem HR-CT darstellen. Dadurch könnte das Erkennen und die Therapie von Erkrankungen des Mittelohrs positiv beeinflusst und die präoperative Planung von Eingriffen vereinfacht werden. Aufgrund der direkten Darstellung der anatomischen Strukturen des Felsenbeins in axialer, koronarer und sagittaler Ebene bei nur einem Untersuchungsgang profitieren die Patienten von einer erheblich geringeren Strahlenexposition und kürzerer Untersuchungszeit im Vergleich zur Datengewinnung mit dem CT. Die bessere Darstellbarkeit aufgrund der geringen Artefaktneigung und der hohen Ortsauflösung des DVT gilt dabei auch für die postoperative Lagekontrolle verschiedener Mittelohrimplantate und ihrer angrenzenden anatomischen Strukturen. Zusammenfassend lässt sich feststellen, dass die DVT eine sinnvolle Ergänzung auf dem Gebiet der radiologischen Felsenbeindiagnostik darstellt

Study of Agronomic Traits, Yield Performance and Economical Indices in Intercropping of Spinach with Chickpea

Introduction  Due to the limits of the conventional agricultural system, intercropping is important in terms of production sustainability. Intercropping plays an important role in increasing production and performance stability to improve the use of resources and environmental factors. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) is an important leafy vegetable, of which the leaves and tender shoots are consumed fresh or processed. Spinach is native to Iran. Spinach contains different flavonoids that function as antioxidants and anticancer agents. Also, spinach may be used in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease. It is an annual plant and as well as chickpea, spinach is grown as both an early spring and late fall crop in order to have growth at the coolest parts of the season. Spinach seed yield varies based on the climatic conditions, optimum sowing date and chose of the best planting pattern. Considering that the intercropping of this plant has not been studied with legumes such as chickpe, this experiment was designed to determine the possibility of intercropping spinach with chickpea using agronomical and economical indices, as well as determining the best planting pattern.   Materials and Methods  In order to investigate agronomic traits, yield and economical indices in spinach intercropping with chickpea, an experiment was carried out as a randomized complete block design with four treatments and three replications in 2017-18 growing season in Tuyserkan city, Hamedan province. In this city, spinach is mainly cultivated for seed production. Experimental treatments included additive intercropping of 20% chickpea with spinach, replacement intercropping of 60% spinach + 40% chickpea and pure stand of spinach and chickpea. Plant height, number of branches per plant, number of seeds per plant, 1000 seed weight, grain yield and biological yield in spinach, as well as plant height, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, 1000 seed weight, grain yield and biological yield in chickpea were measured. To compare the advantages of intercropping of spinach with chickpea, the land equivalent ratio (LER), dry matter equivalent ratio (DMER), system productivity index (SPI), competitive ratio (CR), aggressivity (AG), actual yield loss (AYL ), relative value total (RVT), monetary advantage index (MAI) and intercropping advantage (IA) were calculated and evaluated. SAS 9.1 software were used for analysis of variance (ANOVA) calculations. The difference between the means was evaluated by the least significant difference (LSD) method at the level of 5% probability.   Results and Discussion Plant height, number of branches per plant, 1000 grain weight and grain and biological yields of spinach were significantly affected by intercropping. The highest plant height and the lowest number of branches per spinach plant were obtained from the replacement intercropping. Additive intercropping and pure stand of spinach without significant difference had the lowest plant height and the highest number of branches per plant. The highest 1000 grain weight and grain yield of spinach were associated with the additive intercropping method. However, in terms of biological yield, the pure stand of spinach showed the highest results. Notably, there were no significant differences between the treatments of additive intercropping and pure stand of spinach concerning grain and biological yield of spinach. On the other hand, in chickpeas plants, intercropping had a notable impact on various parameters. Specifically, plant height, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, 1000 grain weight, and both grain and biological yields were affected by the intercropping method. Among these, the additive intercropping treatment resulted in the highest plant height, while it had the lowest number of branches and number of pods per chickpeas plant.The highest 1000 grain weight and grain yield of spinach were related to the additive intercropping. Pure stand of spinach had the maximum biological yield. Treatments of additive intercropping and pure stand of spinach were not significantly different in terms of grain and biological yield of spinach. In chickpeas plant, plant height, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, 1000 grain weight, grain and biological yields were affected by intercropping. The highest plant height and the lowest number of branches and number of pods per chickpeas plant were obtained at the treatment of additive intercropping. Maximum grain and biological yields of chickpea were belonged to the pure stand of chickpea. Spinach and chickpea were dominant and recessive plants, respectively. Evaluation of the economical indices also showed the advantages of spinach intercropping with chickpea at both intercropping design (replacemet and additive intercropping). So that the highest values for land equivalent ratio, dry matter equivalent ratio, system productivity index, actual yield loss, relative value total and monetary advantage index were achieved at additive intercropping system. But, the lowest values for these indices (1.13, 1.06, 1.20 and 1321 for LER, DMER, RVT and MAI, respectively) were revealed at replacement intercropping.   Conclusion  Overall, the results indicate that chickpea is a suitable plant for intercropping with spinach. So that the intercropping of 20% chickpea with spinach improved the yield performance of spinach and land-use efficiency and can lead to the greatest economical profit

Dendritic size of pyramidal neurons differs among mouse cortical regions

12 pages, 7 figures, 3 tables.-- PMID: 16195469 [PubMed].-- Available online Sep 29, 2005.Neocortical circuits share anatomical and physiological similarities among different species and cortical areas. Because of this, a ‘canonical’ cortical microcircuit could form the functional unit of the neocortex and perform the same basic computation on different types of inputs. However, variations in pyramidal cell structure between different primate cortical areas exist, indicating that different cortical areas could be built out of different neuronal cell types. In the present study, we have investigated the dendritic architecture of 90 layer II/III pyramidal neurons located in different cortical regions along a rostrocaudal axis in the mouse neocortex, using, for the first time, a blind multidimensional analysis of over 150 morphological variables, rather than evaluating along single morphological parameters. These cortical regions included the secondary motor cortex (M2), the secondary somatosensory cortex (S2), and the lateral secondary visual cortex and association temporal cortex (V2L/TeA). Confirming earlier primate studies, we find that basal dendritic morphologies are characteristically different between different cortical regions. In addition, we demonstrate that these differences are not related to the physical location of the neuron and cannot be easily explained assuming rostrocaudal gradients within the cortex. Our data suggest that each cortical region is built with specific neuronal components.R.B.-P. thanks the ‘Comunidad de Madrid’ (01/0782/2000) and I.B.-Y. the MEC (AP2001-0671) for support. J.D. is supported by the Spanish Ministry of Education and Science (BFI2003-02745) and the Comunidad de Madrid (08.5/0027/2001.1). R.Y. thanks the NEI (EY11787) and the John Merck Fund for support and the Cajal Institute for hosting him as a visiting professor.Peer reviewe

Brain regions concerned with perceptual skills in tennis: An fMRI study

Sporting performance makes special demands on perceptual skills, but the neural mechanisms underlying such performance are little understood. We address this issue, making use of fMRI to identify the brain areas activated in viewing and responding to video sequences of tennis players, filmed from the opponent’s perspective. In a block-design, fMRI study, 9 novice tennis players watched video clips of tennis play. The main stimulus conditions were (1) serve sequences, (2) non-serve behaviour (ball bouncing) and (3) static control sequences. A button response was required indicating the direction of serve (left or right for serve sequences, middle button for non-serve and static sequences). By comparing responses to the three stimulus conditions, it was possible to identify two groups of brain regions responsive to different components of the task. Areas MT/MST and STS in the posterior part of the temporal lobe responded either to serve and to non-serve stimuli, relative to static controls. Serve sequences produced additional regions of activation in parietal lobe (bilateral IPL, right SPL) and in right frontal cortex (IFGd, IFGv), and these areas were not activated by non-serve sequences. These regions of parietal and frontal cortex have been implicated in a “mirror neuron” network in the human brain. It is concluded that the task of judgement of serve direction produces two different patterns of response: activations in MT/MST and STS concerned with primarily with the analysis of motion and body actions, and activations in parietal and frontal cortex associated specifically with the task of identification of direction of serve

Evaluation of dentin penetration of three different endodontic sealers in the presence and absence of the smear layer

Introduction: A sealer&amp;rsquo;s ability to effectively and stably penetrate the dentinal tubules is an essential factor for selecting an effective root canal obturation material. Evaluation of the sealers&amp;rsquo; penetration into the dentinal tubules provides valuable data in the endodontic treatment outcome.Aim: To compare the dentin penetration of AH Plus, Endoseal MTA, and Syntex endodontic sealers in the presence and absence of the smear layer.Materials and methods: Thirty single-rooted teeth were selected in the present in vitro study and randomly assigned to three experimental groups (n=10). Half of the samples were prepared by removing the smear layer in each group, and the remaining samples were prepared without removing the smear layer. Root canal preparation was carried out with the Perfect Rotary system up to file T3. The root canals were obturated with gutta-percha and AH Plus, Endoseal MTA, or Syntex endodontic sealers. The samples were incubated at 100% relative humidity at 37&amp;deg;C for one week. Each root was sectioned at 2-, 5-, and 8-mm distances from the apex, and sealer penetration depth at each section was determined under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). ANOVA was used to compare penetration depths.Results: There were significant differences in sealer penetration between the samples with and without smear layer removal in each group. The maximum and minimum sealer penetration was at the coronal and apical sections, respectively. The maximum sealer penetration depths in descending order were observed with AH Plus, Syntex, and Endoseal MTA sealers (p&amp;lt;0.05).Conclusions: Elimination of smear layer increased three sealers&amp;rsquo; dentin penetration depth, with the deepest penetration for the AH Plus sealer in the coronal section without the smear layer