Showing papers by "Polytechnic University of Catalonia published in 2004"

Evolution and Structure of the Internet: A Statistical Physics Approach

Abstract: Viewed in this analysis from a statistical physics perspective, the Internet is perceived as a developing system that evolves through the addition and removal of nodes and links. This perspective permits the authors to outline the dynamical theory that can appropriately describe the Internet's macroscopic evolution. The presence of such a theoretical framework will provide a revolutionary way of enhancing the reader's understanding of the Internet's varied network processes.

A small-baseline approach for investigating deformations on full-resolution differential SAR interferograms

Abstract: This paper presents a differential synthetic aperture radar (SAR) interferometry (DIFSAR) approach for investigating deformation phenomena on full-resolution DIFSAR interferograms. In particular, our algorithm extends the capability of the small-baseline subset (SBAS) technique that relies on small-baseline DIFSAR interferograms only and is mainly focused on investigating large-scale deformations with spatial resolutions of about 100/spl times/100 m. The proposed technique is implemented by using two different sets of data generated at low (multilook data) and full (single-look data) spatial resolution, respectively. The former is used to identify and estimate, via the conventional SBAS technique, large spatial scale deformation patterns, topographic errors in the available digital elevation model, and possible atmospheric phase artifacts; the latter allows us to detect, on the full-resolution residual phase components, structures highly coherent over time (buildings, rocks, lava, structures, etc.), as well as their height and displacements. In particular, the estimation of the temporal evolution of these local deformations is easily implemented by applying the singular value decomposition technique. The proposed algorithm has been tested with data acquired by the European Remote Sensing satellites relative to the Campania area (Italy) and validated by using geodetic measurements.

Models of social networks based on social distance attachment

Abstract: We propose a class of models of social network formation based on a mathematical abstraction of the concept of social distance. Social distance attachment is represented by the tendency of peers to establish acquaintances via a decreasing function of the relative distance in a representative social space. We derive analytical results (corroborated by extensive numerical simulations), showing that the model reproduces the main statistical characteristics of real social networks: large clustering coefficient, positive degree correlations, and the emergence of a hierarchy of communities. The model is confronted with the social network formed by people that shares confidential information using the Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) encryption algorithm, the so-called web of trust of PGP.

Velocity and Hierarchical Spread of Epidemic Outbreaks in Scale-Free Networks

Abstract: We study the effect of the connectivity pattern of complex networks on the propagation dynamics of epidemics The growth time scale of outbreaks is inversely proportional to the network degree fluctuations, signaling that epidemics spread almost instantaneously in networks with scale-free degree distributions This feature is associated with an epidemic propagation that follows a precise hierarchical dynamics Once the highly connected hubs are reached, the infection pervades the network in a progressive cascade across smaller degree classes The present results are relevant for the development of adaptive containment strategies

The particle finite element method: a powerful tool to solve incompressible flows with free-surfaces and breaking waves

Abstract: SUMMARY Particle Methods are those in which the problem is represented by a discrete number of particles. Each particle moves accordingly with its own mass and the external/internal forces applied to it. Particle Methods may be used for both, discrete and continuous problems. In this paper, a Particle Method is used to solve the continuous fluid mechanics equations. To evaluate the external applied forces on each particle, the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations using a Lagrangian formulation are solved at each time step. The interpolation functions are those used in the Meshless Finite Element Method and the time integration is introduced by an implicit fractional-step method. In this manner classical stabilization terms used in the momentum equations are unnecessary due to lack of convective terms in the Lagrangian formulation. Once the forces are evaluated, the particles move independently of the mesh. All the information is transmitted by the particles. Fluid–structure interaction problems including free-fluid-surfaces, breaking waves and fluid particle separation may be easily solved with this methodology. Copyright 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The particle finite element method. An overview

Abstract: We present a general formulation for the analysis of fluid-structure interaction problems using the particle finite element method (PFEM). The key feature of the PFEM is the use of a Lagrangian description to model the motion of nodes (particles) in both the fluid and the structure domains. Nodes are thus viewed as particles which can freely move and even separate from the main analysis domain representing, for instance, the effect of water drops. A mesh connects the nodes defining the discretized domain where the governing equations, expressed in an integral form, are solved as in the standard FEM. The necessary stabilization for dealing with the incompressibility condition in the fluid is introduced via the finite calculus (FIC) method. A fractional step scheme for the transient coupled fluid-structure solution is described. Examples of application of the PFEM method to solve a number of fluid-structure interaction problems involving large motions of the free surface and splashing of waves are presented.

Equation of State of a Fermi Gas in the BEC-BCS Crossover: A Quantum Monte Carlo Study

Abstract: We calculate the equation of state of a two-component Fermi gas with attractive short-range interspecies interactions using the fixed-node diffusion Monte Carlo method. The interaction strength is varied over a wide range by tuning the value $a$ of the $s$-wave scattering length of the two-body potential. For $ag0$ and $a$ smaller than the inverse Fermi wave vector our results show a molecular regime with repulsive interactions well described by the dimer-dimer scattering length ${a}_{m}=0.6a$. The pair correlation functions of parallel and opposite spins are also discussed as a function of the interaction strength.

SVMTool: A general POS Tagger Generator Based on Support Vector Machines

Abstract: This paper presents the SVMTool , a simple, flexible, effective and efficient part-of-speech tagger based on Support Vector Machines. The SVMTool offers a fairly good balance among these properties which make it really practical for current NLP applications. It is very easy to use and easily configurable so as to perfectly fit the needs of a number of different applications.

Introduction to the CoNLL-2004 Shared Task: Semantic Role Labeling

Abstract: In this paper we describe the CoNLL-2004 shared task: semantic role labeling. We introduce the specification and goal of the task, describe the data sets and evaluation methods, and present a general overview of the systems that have contributed to the task, providing comparative description.

FreeLing: An Open-Source Suite of Language Analyzers

Abstract: Basic language processing such as tokenizing, morphological analyzers, lemmatizing, PoS tagging, chunking, etc. is a need for most NL applications such as Machine Translation, Summarization, Dialogue systems, etc. A large part of the effort required to develop such applications is devoted to the adaptation of existing software resources to the platform, programming language, format or API of the nal system. In LREC’02, we presented the object architecture that we are currently using (Carreras and Padr· o, 2002), which enables the quick and easy integration of basic language analyzers in any NLP application. Now we present a suite of analysis tools based on that architecture, which is distributed under Lesser General Public License (LGPL) (Free Software Foundation, 1999). The rst release of the suite will include morphological analyzer and Part-of-Speech tagger for English, Spanish, and Catalan.

Cut-offs and finite size effects in scale-free networks

Abstract: We analyze the degree distribution’s cut-off in finite size scale-free networks. We show that the cut-off behavior with the number of vertices N is ruled by the topological constraints induced by the connectivity structure of the network. Even in the simple case of uncorrelated networks, we obtain an expression of the structural cut-off that is smaller than the natural cut-off obtained by means of extremal theory arguments. The obtained results are explicitly applied in the case of the configuration model to recover the size scaling of tadpoles and multiple edges.

Connecting orbits and invariant manifolds in the spatial restricted three-body problem

Abstract: The invariant manifold structures of the collinear libration points for the restricted three-body problem provide the framework for understanding transport phenomena from a geometrical point of view. In particular, the stable and unstable invariant manifold tubes associated with libration point orbits are the phase space conduits transporting material between primary bodies for separate three-body systems. These tubes can be used to construct new spacecraft trajectories, such as a ‘Petit Grand Tour’ of the moons of Jupiter. Previous work focused on the planar circular restricted three-body problem. This work extends the results to the three-dimensional case. Besides providing a full description of different kinds of libration motions in a large vicinity of these points, this paper numerically demonstrates the existence of heteroclinic connections between pairs of libration orbits, one around the libration point L_1 and the other around L_2. Since these connections are asymptotic orbits, no manoeuvre is needed to perform the transfer from one libration point orbit to the other. A knowledge of these orbits can be very useful in the design of missions such as the Genesis Discovery Mission, and may provide the backbone for other interesting orbits in the future.

The visibility function in interferometric aperture synthesis radiometry

Abstract: The fundamental equation of interferometric aperture synthesis radiometry is revised to include full antenna pattern characterization and receivers' interaction. It is shown that the cross correlation between the output signals of a pair of receivers is a Fourier-like integral of the difference between the scene brightness temperature and the physical temperature of the receivers. The derivation is performed using a thermodynamic approach to account for the effects of mutual coupling between antenna elements. The analysis assumes that the receivers include ferrite isolators so that the noise wave passing from the receiver toward the antenna can be modeled as uncorrelated ambient noise. The effect of wide beamwidth antennas on the polarization basis of the retrieved brightness temperature is also discussed.

A constitutive model for unsaturated soils: thermomechanical and computational aspects

Abstract: This paper first presents a complete formulation of a constitutive model that deals with the irreversible behaviour of unsaturated soils under various loading and drying/wetting conditions. A standard form of incremental stress-strain relations is derived. The constitutive model is then cast into the thermodynamical theories and verified using the thermomechanical principles. It is shown that hydraulic hysteresis does not contribute to the plastic dissipation, though it contributes to the plastic work. All plastic work associated with a plastic increment of the degree of saturation is stored and can be recovered in a reversed plastic increment of saturation. The incremental constitutive equations are also reformulated for implementation in finite element codes where displacements and pore pressures are primary unknowns. Qualitative predictions of the constitutive model show that incorporating two suction related yield surfaces and non-associated flow rules into the Barcelona Basic Model opens a full range of possibilities in modelling unsaturated soil behaviour.

Designing and building real environmental decision support systems

Abstract: The complexity of environmental problems makes necessary the development and application of new tools capable of processing not only numerical aspects, but also experience from experts and wide public participation, which are all needed in decision-making processes. Environmental decision support systems (EDSSs) are among the most promising approaches to confront this complexity. The fact that different tools (artificial intelligence techniques, statistical/numerical methods, geographical information systems, and environmental ontologies) can be integrated under different architectures confers EDSSs the ability to confront complex problems, and the capability to support learning and decision-making processes. In this paper, we present our experience, obtained over the last 10 years, in designing and building two real EDSSs, one for wastewater plant supervision, and one for the selection of wastewater treatment systems for communities with less than 2000 inhabitants. The flow diagram followed to build the EDSS is presented for each of the systems, together with a discussion of the tasks involved in each step (problem analysis, data collection and knowledge acquisition, model selection, model implementation, and EDSS validation). In addition, the architecture used is presented, showing how the five levels on which it is based (data gathering, diagnosis, decision support, plans, and actions) have been implemented. Finally, we present our opinion on the research issues that need to be addressed in order to improve the ability of EDSSs to cope with complexity in environmental problems (integration of data and knowledge, improvement of knowledge acquisition methods, new protocols to share and reuse knowledge, development of benchmarks, involvement of end-users), thus increasing our understanding of the environment and contributing to the sustainable development of society.  2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Hydrogen Bond Dynamics in Water and Ultrafast Infrared Spectroscopy: A Theoretical Study

Abstract: Molecular Dynamics simulations are used to examine several key aspects of recent ultrafast infrared experiments on liquid water dynamics in an amplified and extended version of a recent communication [J. Phys. Chem. A 2002, 106, 11993]. It is found that the relation between the OH stretch frequency and the length of the hydrogen bond in which the OH is involved is characterized by considerable dispersion. This dispersion, which is in part related to the varying OHO angle of the hydrogen bond, precludes a one-to-one correspondence between the OH frequency and the hydrogen bond length. Further, it is found that the time scale currently interpreted in terms of a stochastic modulation by the surrounding solvent of a highly frictionally damped hydrogen bond system is largely governed by hydrogen bond-breaking and -making dynamics, while the motion of an intact hydrogen-bonded complex is underdamped in character. A detailed analysis of these issues is provided for calculated spectral dynamics after creation of ...

Self-organization of collaboration networks.

Abstract: We study collaboration networks in terms of evolving, self-organizing bipartite graph models. We propose a model of a growing network, which combines preferential edge attachment with the bipartite structure, generic for collaboration networks. The model depends exclusively on basic properties of the network, such as the total number of collaborators and acts of collaboration, the mean size of collaborations, etc. The simplest model defined within this framework already allows us to describe many of the main topological characteristics (degree distribution, clustering coefficient, etc.) of one-mode projections of several real collaboration networks, without parameter fitting. We explain the observed dependence of the local clustering on degree and the degree‐degree correlations in terms of the “aging” of collaborators and their physical impossibility to participate in an unlimited number of collaborations.

Optimum linear joint transmit-receive processing for MIMO channels with QoS constraints

Abstract: This paper considers vector communications through multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) channels with a set of quality of service (QoS) requirements for the simultaneously established substreams. Linear transmit-receive processing (also termed linear precoder at the transmitter and linear equalizer at the receiver) is designed to satisfy the QoS constraints with minimum transmitted power (the exact conditions under which the problem becomes unfeasible are given). Although the original problem is a complicated nonconvex problem with matrix-valued variables, with the aid of majorization theory, we reformulate it as a simple convex optimization problem with scalar variables. We then propose a practical and efficient multilevel water-filling algorithm to optimally solve the problem for the general case of different QoS requirements. The optimal transmit-receive processing is shown to diagonalize the channel matrix only after a very specific prerotation of the data symbols. For situations in which the resulting transmit power is too large, we give the precise way to relax the QoS constraints in order to reduce the required power based on a perturbation analysis. We also propose a robust design under channel estimation errors that has an important interest for practical systems. Numerical results from simulations are given to support the mathematical development of the problem.

Comparison of dose calculation algorithms in phantoms with lung equivalent heterogeneities under conditions of lateral electronic disequilibrium.

Abstract: An extensive set of benchmark measurement of PDDs and beam profiles was performed in a heterogeneous layer phantom, including a lung equivalent heterogeneity, by means of several detectors and compared against the predicted dose values by different calculation algorithms in two treatment planning systems. PDDs were measured with TLDs, plane parallel and cylindrical ionization chambers and beam profiles with films. Additionally, Monte Carlo simulations by means of the PENELOPE code were performed. Four different field sizes (10 x 10, 5 x 5, 2 x 2, and 1 x 1 cm2) and two lung equivalent materials (CIRS, p(w)e=0.195 and St. Bartholomew Hospital, London, p(w)e=0.244-0.322) were studied. The performance of four correction-based algorithms and one based on convolution-superposition was analyzed. The correction-based algorithms were the Batho, the Modified Batho, and the Equivalent TAR implemented in the Cadplan (Varian) treatment planning system and the TMS Pencil Beam from the Helax-TMS (Nucletron) treatment planning system. The convolution-superposition algorithm was the Collapsed Cone implemented in the Helax-TMS. The only studied calculation methods that correlated successfully with the measured values with a 2% average inside all media were the Collapsed Cone and the Monte Carlo simulation. The biggest difference between the predicted and the delivered dose in the beam axis was found for the EqTAR algorithm inside the CIRS lung equivalent material in a 2 x 2 cm2 18 MV x-ray beam. In these conditions, average and maximum difference against the TLD measurements were 32% and 39%, respectively. In the water equivalent part of the phantom every algorithm correctly predicted the dose (within 2%) everywhere except very close to the interfaces where differences up to 24% were found for 2 x 2 cm2 18 MV photon beams. Consistent values were found between the reference detector (ionization chamber in water and TLD in lung) and Monte Carlo simulations, yielding minimal differences (0.4%+/-1.2%). The penumbra broadening effect in low density media was not predicted by any of the correction-based algorithms, and the only one that matched the experimental values and the Monte Carlo simulations within the estimated uncertainties was the Collapsed Cone Algorithm.

Impact of freshwater input and wind on landings of anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) and sardine (Sardina pilchardus) in shelf waters surrounding the Ebre (Ebro) River delta (north-western Mediterranean)

Abstract: Time series analyses (Box–Jenkins models) were used to study the influence of river runoff and wind mixing index on the productivity of the two most abundant species of small pelagic fish exploited in waters surrounding the Ebre (Ebro) River continental shelf (north-western Mediterranean): anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) and sardine (Sardina pilchardus). River flow and wind were selected because they are known to enhance fertilization and local planktonic production, thus being crucial for the survival of fish larvae. Time series of the two environmental variables and landings of the two species were analysed to extract the trend and seasonality. All series displayed important seasonal and interannual fluctuations. In the long term, landings of anchovy declined while those of sardine increased. At the seasonal scale, landings of anchovy peaked during spring/summer while those of sardine peaked during spring and autumn. Seasonality in landings of anchovy was stronger than in sardine. Concerning the environmental series, monthly average Ebre runoff showed a progressive decline from 1960 until the late 1980s, and the wind mixing index was highest during 1994–96. Within the annual cycle, the minimum river flow occurs from July to October and the wind mixing peaks in winter (December–April, excluding January). The results of the analyses showed a significant correlation between monthly landings of anchovy and freshwater input of the Ebre River during the spawning season of this species (April–August), with a time lag of 12 months. In contrast, monthly landings of sardine were significantly positively correlated with the wind mixing index during the spawning season of this species (November–March), with a lag of 18 months. The results provide evidence of the influence of riverine inputs and wind mixing on the productivity of small pelagic fish in the north-western Mediterranean. The time lags obtained in the relationships stress the importance of river runoff and wind mixing for the early stages of anchovy and sardine, respectively, and their impact on recruitment.