Statistics of natural scenes are not uniform - their structure varies dramatically from ground to sky. It remains unknown whether these non-uniformities are reflected in the large-scale organization of the early visual system and what benefits such adaptations would confer. Here, by relying on the efficient coding hypothesis, we predict that changes in the structure of receptive fields across visual space increase the efficiency of sensory coding. We show experimentally that, in agreement with our predictions, receptive fields of retinal ganglion cells change their shape along the dorsoventral retinal axis, with a marked surround asymmetry at the visual horizon. Our work demonstrates that, according to principles of efficient coding, the panoramic structure of natural scenes is exploited by the retina across space and cell-types.

This dataset is associated with the University of Michigan Dept. of Physics dissertation titled "Shedding Light on the Dark: Exploring the Relation Between Galaxy Cluster Mass and Temperature Through Weak Gravitational Lensing" by Rutuparna Das. It is also associated with a paper, currently in preparation, by Das et al (details to be added once paper is submitted/accepted).;This work contains information about shapes of galaxies observed by the Dark Energy Survey (DES) during its Science Verification (SV) run. The official DES SV shape catalog has already been released to the public (see details in Jarvis et al. (2016), henceforth called "J16"). This work follows the methods presented in J16, and contains shapes from areas of the sky that were not processed as part of the official DES-SV catalog but were necessary for the work presented in the aforementioned dissertation. Each catalog contains information for galaxies in a 80′ × 80′ cutout centered at a given galaxy cluster.;Note that these catalogs are not entirely analogous to the official DES-SV catalog. For one, we only measure shapes for galaxies, as stars and other objects were not needed for the dissertation. Our catalogs also only extend to a magnitude of 24 in r-band, whereas a small fraction of the objects in the official Im3shape catalog are dimmer (see Figure 29 of J16).;We also include other information necessary for weak lensing studies. Aside from all fields from Im3shape and noise bias calibration (listed and described in J16), these catalogs contain columns for object positions (“ra_gold”, “dec_gold”) and magnitudes in various filters (“mag_detmodel_g”, “mag_detmodel_r”, “mag_detmodel_i”, “mag_detmodel_z”) from the SVA1-Gold catalog (https://des.ncsa.illinois.edu/releases/sva1/docs/docs-gold). Additionally, we include mean redshift measurements from two DES photo-z measurement pipelines, TPZ and DESDM Neural Network (“z_TPZ”, “z_DESDMnn”) (more details in Sanchez et al. (2014)).;References: Jarvis, M., Sheldon, E., Zuntz, J., et al. 2016, Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, 460, 2245. Sanchez, C., Carrasco Kind, M., Lin, H., et al. 2014, Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, 445, 1482.

1. The number of published studies using geometric morphometrics (GM) for analysing biological shape has increased steadily since the beginning of the 1990’s, covering multiple research areas such as ecology, evolution, development, taxonomy and palaeontology. Unfortunately, we have observed that many published studies using GM do not evaluate the potential allometric effects of size on shape, which normally require consideration or assessment This might lead to misinterpretations and flawed conclusions in certain cases, especially when size effects explain a large part of the shape variation. 2. We assessed, for the first time and in a systematic manner, how often published studies that have applied GM consider the potential effects of allometry on shape. 3. We reviewed the 300 most recent published papers that used GM for studying biological shape. We also estimated how much of the shape variation was explained by allometric effects in the reviewed papers. 4. More than one third (38%) of the reviewed studies did not consider the allometric component of shape variation. In studies where the allometric component was taken into account, it was significant in 88% of the cases, explaining up to 87.3% of total shape variation. We believe that one reason that may cause the observed results is a misunderstanding of the process that superimposes landmark configurations, i.e. the Generalized Procrustes Analysis, which removes isometric effects of size on shape, but not allometric effects. 5. Allometry can be a crucial component of shape variation. We urge authors to address, and report, size effects in studies of biological shape. However, we do not propose to always remove size effects, but rather to evaluate the research question with and without the allometric component of shape variation. This approach can certainly provide a thorough understanding of on how much size contributes to observed shaped variation.

Abstract The main goal of this paper is to present shape grammars as an analytical tool to study urban morphology and as a design tool for urban planning. Shape grammars emerged in the 70s through the seminal article by Stiny & Gips, and are used to analyse past design styles (analytical grammars) as well as to create new and original design languages (original grammars). In this paper, the formalization of shape grammar is introduced and the relevance of its use in different contexts is discussed. With this in mind, the paper highlights the extent to which shape grammars can be used as part of a methodology for a flexible urban design that responds to the requirements and needs existing in urban and built environments. The paper also presents a state of the art of shape grammars for urban design and several case studies both concerning analytical studies of urban space and proposals for new urban planning. Currently available and under development digital tools that use shape grammars for urban design are presented at the end of the paper.

Morphometric studies often consider parts with internal left-right symmetry, for instance, the vertebrate skull. This type of symmetry is called object symmetry and is distinguished from matching symmetry, in which two separate structures exist as mirror images of each other, one on each body side. We explain a method for partitioning the total shape variation of landmark configurations with object symmetry into components of symmetric variation among individuals and asymmetry. This method is based on the Procrustes superimposition of the original and a reflected copy of each landmark configuration and is compatible with the two-factor ANOVA model customary in studies of fluctuating asymmetry. We show a fully multivariate framework for testing the effects in the two-factor model with MANOVA statistics, which also applies to shapes with matching symmetry. We apply the new methods in a small case study of pharyngeal jaws of the Neotropical cichlid fish Amphilophus citrinellus. The analysis revealed that the symmetric component of variation in the pharyngeal jaws is dominated by the contrast between two alternative trophic morphs in this species and that there is subtle but statistically significant directional asymmetry. Finally, we provide some general recommendations for morphometric studies of symmetric shapes.

Global Shape Memory Polymer Market size was valued at $980.46 Million in 2022, and is projected to reach $5.35 Billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 23.64%.

Measured Differential Jet Shape RHO as a function of r for jet transverse momentum from 30 to 40 GeV and absolute values of the jet rapidity from 1.2 to 2.1. This is additional data, not in the paper.

We have applied 3D shape-based retrieval to various disciplines such as computer vision, CAD/CAM, computer graphics, molecular biology and 3D anthropometry. We have organized two workshops on 3D shape retrieval and two shape retrieval contests. We also have developed 3D shape benchmarks, performance evaluation software and prototype 3D retrieval systems. We have developed a robotic map quality assessment tool in collaboration with MEL) We also have developed different shape descriptors to represent 3D human bodies and heads efficiently and other work related to 3D anthropometry. Finally, we also have done some in a Structural Bioinformatics, Bio-Image analysis and retrieval.

Results from ANOVA like permutation tests based on 2000 permutations, df: degrees of freedom, Var: variance, F: F-value, P: p-value, p<0.05 indicates a significant effect. Results for the three age groups 3–5 years, 6–8 years and 9–12 years are shown separately. Local populations from western Norway are: Sykkulven, Gloppen, Lusterfjord and Lindåspollene and populations from southern Norway are Grimstad, Høvåg, Kragerø, Kilsund, Lake Landvik and Risør. The northern local population was sampled in Balsfjord (BA). The oceanic populations are the Norwegian spring- (NS) and autumn-spawners (NL) (see Table 1 for population ID codes). P<0.05 indicates a significant effect. Empty cells indicate data did not exist for these comparisons.Otolith shape compared among all herring populations in the present study.

This dataset contains the input and output data for a computational study of femoroacetabular impingement. The model is composed of a simplified shape model of the human hip joint and the use of hip movement data from multiple activities and multiple subjects. The relevant study is a first demonstration of the capability of the model, which illustrates the effects of the location of a specific femoral bony shape feature on hip joint impingement measures. The details of the shape model design and the values selected for this study are included. The raw hip joint motion data is available in a separate dataset which is linked to this one. The raw outputs from the modelling performed for this study are also included.

Abstract:

Laminar technologies were adopted by Paleolithic foragers to produce a variable range of stone implements. Archaeologists have reconstructed the different reduction procedures involved in the production of laminar stone tools, often underlying a separation between the bigger blanks (i.e., blades) and smaller bladelets. However, these two blank types are in most cases poorly defined, as their classification typically relies on arbitrary size thresholds that do not consider blank shape, which is a fundamental component of tool production and function. In this study, we investigate whether traditional classifications of blades and bladelets are morphologically and technologically meaningful. For this purpose, we employ a three-dimensional geometric morphometric approach on a large sample of complete blanks retrieved from one of the earliest laminar industries assigned to modern humans in southern Europe: the Protoaurignacian from Fumane Cave. We rely on a cutting-edge protocol for acquiring virtual 3D meshes of stone tools using micro-computed tomography. This novel approach allows us to scan large quantities of small lithics in a short period of time and without the typical technical problems associated with scanning small objects. After calculating the principal components of shape variation, we explore differences and similarities across the dataset using linear discriminant analysis and analysis of variance. Our multivariate study highlights distinct morphological tendencies across blades and bladelets that are however better framed when the technological organization of Protoaurignacian stone knapping is taken into consideration. Overall, our results demonstrate that virtual analysis of stone tool shape can help elucidate aspects of lithic technology and its implications for past human behavior.

Overview of contents:

1. Raw landmark data. All landmark coordinates for each blank analyzed in this study and digitized in AGMT3-D;

2. R project with all steps performed to import the Cartesian coordinates of each artifact to R and run GPA, PCA, and Shape ANOVA in geomorph. Furthermore, we include the steps to visualize the shape changes in both geomorph and Morpho (after performing a GPA and PCA in that package too);

3. PC scores of the PCA performed in geomorph and .csv dataset with all attributes used in this study;

4. Datasets in .sav and .dat formats used to run statistical analyses in SPSS and Past;

5. Results of the LDA analyses conducted in the study;

6. R script used to design the bivariate plot of the PCA;

Extra: All 3D meshes of blades and bladelets are available on Zenodo following this link: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.6362150

📘 Dataset Overview

This synthetic dataset simulates the academic and lifestyle behaviors of 80,000 students, including diverse features like study habits, mental health, family background, motivation, and environmental factors. The goal is to explore how different variables affect student performance in terms of GPA and exam scores.

🧠 Features Included

• student_id: Unique student identifier.
• age: Age of the student (16–28).
• gender: Male, Female, or Other.
• major: Field of study (e.g., Computer Science, Engineering, Arts).
• study_hours_per_day: Average hours studied daily.
• social_media_hours, netflix_hours, screen_time: Time spent on various screens.
• part_time_job: Whether the student has a job (Yes/No).
• attendance_percentage: Academic attendance in percentage.
• sleep_hours, exercise_frequency, diet_quality: Lifestyle factors.
• mental_health_rating, stress_level, exam_anxiety_score: Psychological indicators (1–10).
• extracurricular_participation, access_to_tutoring: Support and engagement.
• family_income_range, parental_support_level, parental_education_level: Background and support.
• motivation_level, time_management_score: Self-management skills (1–10).
• learning_style: Preferred method of learning.
• study_environment: Common location for studying.
• dropout_risk: Yes/No — derived from stress and motivation levels.
• previous_gpa, exam_score: Target performance indicators.

📊 Collection Methodology

The dataset was synthetically generated using Python with realistic statistical modeling, Gaussian distributions, conditional logic, and heuristics to simulate actual student behavior and academic outcomes.

Key points: - Realistic distributions for study hours, stress, and motivation. - Exam score derived from GPA + noise. - GPA computed based on study hours, sleep, stress, motivation, support, and tutoring. - Diversity in majors, income, and support levels.

For full generation logic, see the associated code [below or in GitHub].

📌 Usage Ideas

• Regression & classification ML models
• Exploratory data analysis
• Education research
• Student success prediction
• Academic risk detection

⚠️ Disclaimer

This is a synthetic dataset intended for research and educational purposes only. It does not contain any real student data.

Shape Sorters Market Outlook

According to our latest research and analysis, the global shape sorters market size reached USD 1.42 billion in 2024. The market is expected to grow at a robust CAGR of 6.1% during the forecast period, reaching approximately USD 2.42 billion by 2033. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing emphasis on early childhood development, rising disposable incomes, and the growing demand for educational toys that foster cognitive and motor skills in children. As per our latest research, the shape sorters market is witnessing significant traction due to evolving parental preferences and advancements in product design and safety standards.

A major growth factor for the shape sorters market is the heightened awareness among parents and educators about the importance of early learning and skill development. Shape sorters are widely recognized as essential tools for enhancing hand-eye coordination, problem-solving abilities, and shape and color recognition in young children. The proliferation of parenting blogs, educational forums, and social media platforms has further amplified the awareness regarding the developmental benefits of shape sorters. As a result, parents are increasingly investing in high-quality educational toys, including shape sorters, to provide their children with a strong foundation for future learning. Furthermore, the integration of STEM concepts into early childhood education has propelled the demand for innovative and multifunctional shape sorter products.

Another significant driver fueling the growth of the shape sorters market is the continuous innovation in product materials and designs. Manufacturers are focusing on developing safer, eco-friendly, and aesthetically appealing shape sorters to cater to the evolving needs of consumers. The introduction of wooden and BPA-free plastic shape sorters, along with electronic variants featuring lights, sounds, and interactive elements, has expanded the product portfolio available in the market. These innovations not only enhance the play value but also address parental concerns regarding product safety and environmental impact. Additionally, the growing trend of personalized and themed shape sorters, which align with popular cartoon characters or educational themes, is attracting a wider consumer base and boosting market growth.

The expansion of distribution channels, particularly the rise of e-commerce platforms, has played a pivotal role in shaping the market dynamics. Online stores offer a vast array of shape sorter products, enabling consumers to compare features, prices, and reviews before making a purchase. The convenience of home delivery, attractive discounts, and the availability of international brands have made online channels increasingly popular among urban consumers. Moreover, specialty stores and supermarkets/hypermarkets continue to contribute significantly to market growth by providing hands-on product experiences and expert advice. The strategic partnerships between manufacturers and leading retail chains have further enhanced product visibility and accessibility, driving the overall sales of shape sorters globally.

From a regional perspective, North America and Europe currently dominate the shape sorters market, accounting for a substantial share of the global revenue. However, the Asia Pacific region is emerging as the fastest-growing market, driven by a burgeoning population of young children, rising urbanization, and increasing parental expenditure on educational toys. Countries such as China, India, and Japan are witnessing a surge in demand for shape sorters due to the growing middle-class population and government initiatives promoting early childhood education. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa also present lucrative opportunities for market players, owing to improving economic conditions and a gradual shift towards quality educational products.

Product Type Analysis

The shape sorters market is segmented by product type into wooden shape sorters,

Abstract: Amazon’s Mechanical Turk (MTurk) is widely used for data collection, however, data quality may be declining due to the use of Virtual Private Servers (VPSs) to fraudulently gain access to studies. Unfortunately, we know little about the scale and consequence of this fraud, and tools for social scientists to detect and prevent this fraud are underdeveloped. We first analyze 38 studies and show that this fraud is not new, but has increased recently. We then show that these fraudulent respondents provide particularly low-quality data and can weaken treatment effects. Finally, we provide two solutions: an easy-to-use application for identifying fraud in existing datasets and a method for blocking fraudulent respondents in Qualtrics surveys.

Fuzzy number averages of the 7 samples for the 4 groups of adjectives.

2D Geometric Shapes Dataset

Overview

This dataset contains images of 2D geometric shapes, generated programmatically. The shapes are randomly positioned and oriented within each image, making this dataset useful for tasks such as image classification, shape recognition, and computer vision experiments.

Shapes Included

The dataset includes the following shapes: - Circle - Semicircle - Oval - Triangle - Square - Rectangle - Parallelogram - Rhombus - Trapezoid - Kite - Pentagon - Hexagon - Heptagon - Octagon - Nonagon - Decagon

Dataset Details

• Number of Images per Shape: 50000
• Total Images: 850,000 (50000 images * 17 shapes)
• Image Size: 224x224 pixels
• Image Format: PNG

Each image contains a single shape, randomly positioned and rotated within the image. The background is white, and the shape color is randomly chosen from a predefined set of colors.

Usage

This dataset can be used for: - Image classification model training - Shape detection and recognition - Computer vision research

License

This dataset is provided under the MIT License.

Acknowledgments

This dataset was generated using a Python script with the PIL library. The code for generating the dataset is available on GitHub Khalid Boussaroual.

BMI and self-reported body size in control group*.

Digital shape models have been constructed from Cassini Imaging Science Subsystem (ISS) data for eleven of the small satellites of Saturn and delivered to the Planetary Data System. These satellites are: Pan, Daphnis, Atlas, Prometheus, Pandora, Epimetheus, Janus, Telesto, Calypso, Helene, and Hyperion. These models typically have uncertainties well under 0.5 km. They are appropriate for global geometric, geologic, and geophysical studies, and regional slope and topography study. They are useful in studying morphologies of only the relatively largest-sized craters. Studies based on early versions of these shape models are in Thomas et al., 2013

IntroductionThe Centre of Pressure (COP) is the single point summarising all forces transferred to the hoof during the stance phase of a stride. COP path (COPp) is the trajectory that COP follows from footstrike to lift-off. Aim of the present study was to characterize the COP and COPp in horses affected by osteoarthritis and chronic lameness.Materials and methodsSeventeen adult horses with a diagnosis of osteoarthritis and single limb chronic lameness were recruited. The COP was recorded using a wireless pressure measuring system (TekScan®) with sensors taped to the hooves (either fore- or hind limb, depending on lameness location). The COPp coordinates were further processed. Procrustes analysis was performed to assess the variability of single strides COPp and average COPp among strides, gaits, and limbs by calculating Procrustes distances (D-values). A linear mixed-effects model was run to analyse D-values differences for lame and sound limbs. Additionally, average COPp D-values and COPp hoofprint shape indices were compared for lame and sound limbs with the Signed Rank Test.ResultsAt walk and trot the single-stride COPp D-values were significantly lower in lame than in sound limbs (marginal effects p<0.001). Analysis of the average COPp D-values confirmed that each hoof COPp is highly consistent with itself over subsequent trials but is different from the contralateral. COPp and hoofprint shape indices did not differ between sound and lame limbs. Footstrike and lift-off within the hoofprint showed that most horses had lateral footstrike and lift-off, independently of the lameness location.ConclusionOur findings are in line with previous observations that COPp are highly repetitive and characteristic for each horse and limb. There seems to be a further decrease in COPp variability in the presence of a painful limb pathology.

The code and data from this repository allows for the replication of all tables and graphs for the paper "How Does Official Secrecy Shape the Study of U.S. Foreign Relations?"