Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Endo-lysosomal TRP mucolipin-1 channels trigger global ER Ca2+ release and Ca2+ influx

ABSTRACT Transient receptor potential (TRP) mucolipins (TRPMLs), encoded by the MCOLN genes, are patho-physiologically relevant endo-lysosomal ion channels crucial for membrane trafficking. Several lines of evidence suggest that TRPMLs mediate localised Ca2+ release but their role in Ca2+ signalling is not clear. Here, we show that activation of endogenous and recombinant TRPMLs with synthetic agonists evoked global Ca2+ signals in human cells. These signals were blocked by a dominant-negative TRPML1 construct and a TRPML antagonist. We further show that, despite a predominant lysosomal localisation, TRPML1 supports both Ca2+ release and Ca2+ entry. Ca2+ release required lysosomal and ER Ca2+ stores suggesting that TRPMLs, like other endo-lysosomal Ca2+ channels, are capable of ‘chatter’ with ER Ca2+ channels. Our data identify new modalities for TRPML1 action. Summary: The endolysosomal ion channel TRP mucolipin 1 was thought to mediate local Ca2+ signals. However, as reported here, it can also mediate global elevations in Ca2+.
A Semantic Approach to Evaluate the Impact of Cyber Actions to the Physical Domain

Evaluating the impact that events within the cyber domain inflict to a military operation and its critical infrastructure is a non-trivial question, which remains unanswered so far in spite of the various research efforts addressing it. The key issue underlying this question is the difficulty in correlating cyber and physical behaviors in an integrated view, thus allowing for real-time task evaluation. This paper addresses the issue with the development of an ontology-based framework in which the cyber and physical behaviors are integrated in a consolidated view, using a combination of open standards protocols and semantic technologies. In our approach, the mission and its physical aspects are modeled using a business process language (e.g., BPMN) and an information infrastructure based on Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP). In this scheme, changes in the environment are captured using the output of sensor components existing in the infrastructure. In order to ensure a complete and integrated analysis of the accruing data, we have developed a Cyber Situation ontology (in OWL language) and a methodology for mapping the cyber and the physical domains. In this framework, mission data from the environment is retrieved and fused using an engine based on the semantic rule language (SWRL). The output of this process is then presented to an analyst in a way that only the most important information needed to support his/her decisions is shown. To validate our approach, a fictitious air traffic scenario was modeled and many simulated flights were generated in support to our experiments.
UCP4C mediates uncoupled respiration in larvae of Drosophila melanogaster

Larvae of Drosophila melanogaster reared at 23°C and switched to 14°C for 1 h are 0.5°C warmer than the surrounding medium. In keeping with dissipation of energy, respiration of Drosophila melanogaster larvae cannot be decreased by the F‐ATPase inhibitor oligomycin or stimulated by protonophore. Silencing of Ucp4C conferred sensitivity of respiration to oligomycin and uncoupler, and prevented larva‐to‐adult progression at 15°C but not 23°C. Uncoupled respiration of larval mitochondria required palmitate, was dependent on Ucp4C and was inhibited by guanosine diphosphate. UCP4C is required for development through the prepupal stages at low temperatures and may be an uncoupling protein.
Polo‐Like Kinase 2 is Dynamically Regulated to Coordinate Proliferation and Early Lineage Specification Downstream of Yes‐Associated Protein 1 in Cardiac Progenitor Cells

Background Recent studies suggest that adult cardiac progenitor cells (CPCs) can produce new cardiac cells. Such cell formation requires an intricate coordination of progenitor cell proliferation and commitment, but the molecular cues responsible for this regulation in CPCs are ill defined. Methods and Results Extracellular matrix components are important instructors of cell fate. Using laminin and fibronectin, we induced two slightly distinct CPC phenotypes differing in proliferation rate and commitment status and analyzed the early transcriptomic response to CPC adhesion (<2 hours). Ninety‐four genes were differentially regulated on laminin versus fibronectin, consisting of mostly downregulated genes that were enriched for Yes‐associated protein (YAP) conserved signature and TEA domain family member 1 (TEAD1)‐related genes. This early gene regulation was preceded by the rapid cytosolic sequestration and degradation of YAP on laminin. Among the most strongly regulated genes was polo‐like kinase 2 (Plk2). Plk2 expression depended on YAP stability and was enhanced in CPCs transfected with a nuclear‐targeted mutant YAP. Phenotypically, the early downregulation of Plk2 on laminin was succeeded by lower cell proliferation, enhanced lineage gene expression (24 hours), and facilitated differentiation (3 weeks) compared with fibronectin. Finally, overexpression of Plk2 enhanced CPC proliferation and knockdown of Plk2 induced the expression of lineage genes. Conclusions Plk2 acts as coordinator of cell proliferation and early lineage commitment in CPCs. The rapid downregulation of Plk2 on YAP inactivation marks a switch towards enhanced commitment and facilitated differentiation. These findings link early gene regulation to cell fate and provide novel insights into how CPC proliferation and differentiation are orchestrated.
The RNA Helicase Lgp2 Inhibits TLR-Independent Sensing of Viral Replication by Retinoic Acid-Inducible Gene-I1

The paramyxovirus Sendai (SV), is a well-established inducer of IFN-αβ gene expression. In this study we show that SV induces IFN-αβ gene expression normally in cells from mice with targeted deletions of the Toll-IL-1 resistance domain containing adapters MyD88, Mal, Toll/IL-1R domain-containing adaptor inducing IFN-β (TRIF), and TRIF-related adaptor molecule TLR3, or the E3 ubiquitin ligase, TNFR-associated factor 6. This TLR-independent induction of IFN-αβ after SV infection is replication dependent and mediated by the RNA helicase, retinoic acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I) and not the related family member, melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5. Furthermore, we characterize a RIG-I-like RNA helicase, Lgp2. In contrast to RIG-I or melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5, Lgp2 lacks signaling caspase recruitment and activation domains. Overexpression of Lgp2 inhibits SV and Newcastle disease virus signaling to IFN-stimulated regulatory element- and NF-κB-dependent pathways. Importantly, Lgp2 does not prevent TLR3 signaling. Like RIG-I, Lgp2 binds double-stranded, but not single-stranded, RNA. Quantitative PCR analysis demonstrates that Lgp2 is present in unstimulated cells at a lower level than RIG-I, although both helicases are induced to similar levels after virus infection. We propose that Lgp2 acts as a negative feedback regulator of antiviral signaling by sequestering dsRNA from RIG-I.
A Binaural Deep Neural Networks Parameter Mask for the Robust Automatic Speech Recognition System

Within the framework of computational auditory scene analysis (CASA), a parameter masks estimator based on deep neural networks (DNN) is proposed for automatic speech recognition (ASR) in noisy environments. This paper addresses the robustness in binaural machine speech recognition by speech energy estimation using DNN. An ideal parameter mask (IPM) is introduced as the goal of the DNN estimator, which is calculated by the energy of the target speech and mixture. We systematically examine DNN generalization to untrained and real office configurations. Evaluations and comparisons show that the DNN based binaural estimator produces a superior signal to noise ratio (SNR) and ASR performance in a variety of noisy environments.
A Multiagent System for Edge Detection and Continuity Perception on Fish Otolith Images

We present an algorithm for fish otolith growth ring detection using a multiagent system. Up to now, the identification of growth rings, for age estimation, is routinely achieved by human readers, but this task is tedious and depends on the reader subjectivity. One of the major problems encountered during an automatic contour detection is the lack of ring continuity perception. We present an approach to improve this continuity perception based on a 2D reconstruction of rings using a multiagent system. The originality of the approach is to use local edge detection achieved by agents and combine it with continuity perception that active contours allow.
A Non-parametric Guide for Radiance Sampling in Global Illumination

Global illumination as described by the radiance and potential equations is essentially a sampling problem. This sampling has two elements: 'where' to sample and 'how' to sample. In this paper we propose an alternative method to non-parametric ally simplify the problem of 'where' in the general case. We present a solid angle based uniform sampling scheme with an efficient conservative cull of solid angles not affecting the transfer of radiance between two surfaces. This construction also provides a geometric area bounds within which a surface can receive energy from another along directions contained in the solid angle. The technique can be used to illuminate a scene from a general emitter, including incident light fields. The method has several applications and advantages, with results showing good sampling efficiency and speed.
Scalable Training of Mixture Models via Coresets

How can we train a statistical mixture model on a massive data set? In this paper, we show how to construct coresets for mixtures of Gaussians and natural generalizations. A coreset is a weighted subset of the data, which guarantees that models fitting the coreset will also provide a good fit for the original data set. We show that, perhaps surprisingly, Gaussian mixtures admit coresets of size independent of the size of the data set. More precisely, we prove that a weighted set of O(dk3/e2) data points suffices for computing a (1 + e)-approximation for the optimal model on the original n data points. Moreover, such coresets can be efficiently constructed in a map-reduce style computation, as well as in a streaming setting. Our results rely on a novel reduction of statistical estimation to problems in computational geometry, as well as new complexity results about mixtures of Gaussians. We empirically evaluate our algorithms on several real data sets, including a density estimation problem in the context of earthquake detection using accelerometers in mobile phones.
CT perfusion image processing: analysis of liver tumors

Perfusion CT imaging of the liver has potential to improve evaluation of tumour angiogenesis. Quantitative parameters can be obtained applying mathematical models to Time Attenuation Curve (TAC). However, there are still some difficulties for an accurate quantification of perfusion parameters due, for example, to algorithms employed, to mathematical model, to patient’s weight and cardiac output and to the acquisition system. In this thesis, new parameters and alternative methodologies about liver perfusion CT are presented in order to investigate the cause of variability of this technique. Firstly analysis were made to assess the variability related to the mathematical model used to compute arterial Blood Flow (BFa) values. Results were obtained implementing algorithms based on “ maximum slope method” and “Dual input one compartment model” . Statistical analysis on simulated data demonstrated that the two methods are not interchangeable. Anyway slope method is always applicable in clinical context. Then variability related to TAC processing in the application of slope method is analyzed. Results compared with manual selection allow to identify the best automatic algorithm to compute BFa. The consistency of a Standardized Perfusion Index (SPV) was evaluated and a simplified calibration procedure was proposed. At the end the quantitative value of perfusion map was analyzed. ROI approach and map approach provide related values of BFa and this means that pixel by pixel algorithm give reliable quantitative results. Also in pixel by pixel approach slope method give better results. In conclusion the development of new automatic algorithms for a consistent computation of BFa and the analysis and definition of simplified technique to compute SPV parameter, represent an improvement in the field of liver perfusion CT analysis.
Diagnostic Errors in Interactive Telepathology

Telepathology (TP) as a service in pathology at a distance is now widely used. It is integrated in the daily workflow of numerous pathologists. Meanwhile, in Germany 15 departments of pathology are using the telepathology technique for frozen section service; however, a common recognised quality standard in diagnostic accuracy is still missing. In a first step, the working group Aurich uses a TP system for frozen section service in order to analyse the frequency and sources of errors in TP frozen section diagnoses for evaluating the quality of frozen section slides, the important components of image quality and their influences an diagnostic accuracy. The authors point to the necessity of an optimal training program for all participants in this service in order to reduce the risk of diagnostic errors. In addition, there is need for optimal cooperation of all partners involved in TP service.
How to manipulate an object robustly with only one actuator (An application of caging)

Caging can offer robustness to uncertainties in grasping. If a robotic hand is designed based on the idea of caging, it would probably work well with noisy perception devices and low-quality control. This paper takes into account these merits and designs and implements a gripping hand based on the idea of caging. The gripping hand is concise and offers a low-cost alternative to co-operate with noisy data and low-quality control. According to previous work, we need four fingers to cage any 2D objects. That is to say, if each finger has one, two or three degree of freedoms, we will totally need four, eight or twelve actuators. The large number of actuators would be costly. This paper simplify the number of actuators into one by quantitatively analyzing finger formations with caging tests conducted on both random objects and objects from MPEG-7 shape database. It successfully lowers costs while maintains high performance. Following the simplified one-actuator design we implement a gripping hand by modifying a SCHUNK RH707 hand and carried out experiments with a manipulator built on the Neuronics Katana arm. The one-actuator gripping hand could work well with common depth cameras (Swiss Ranger) and pick up various objects. It bridges the gap between caging theories and applications and demonstrates the merits of caging.
Estimates of Surface and Subsurface Forcing for Decadal Sea Surface Temperature Variability in the Mid-Latitude North Pacific

The upper ocean, atmosphere and their interaction over the North Pacific exhibit pronounced decadal to interdecadal variations. A diagnostic equation for analyzing the heat budget for decadal variability in winter sea surface temperature (SST) is derived that can properly account for subsurface geostrophic advection, and strong seasonal cycle in the depth and temperature of the ocean mixed layer. A modelassimilated ocean dataset, partially validated for the period of the TOPEX/Poseidon mission, is used to evaluate the relative importance of subsurface advection and surface forcing due to wind-induced turbulent heat flux and Ekman advection. For our analysis, two key regions are chosen where decadal SST variance reaches local maxima, centered at 170°E, 42°N (Region A) and 155°W, 35°N (Region B), respectively. Region B is under the direct influence of the Aleutian Low, where the surface effects are dominant. Region A is part of the Kuroshio-Oyashio Extension, where the winter mixed layer is deep and the subsurface geostrophic advection contributes significantly to low-frequency winter SST variations. Our analysis suggests that anomalous geostrophic advection changes signs north and south 38°N, presumably as a result of ocean gyre circulation adjustment to wind changes to the east. The surface forcing shows a larger-scale structure covering the entire mid-latitude North Pacific, in response to basin-wide changes in atmospheric circulation.
Forecasts of Us Short-Term Interest Rates: A Flexible Forecast Combination Approach

This paper develops a flexible approach to combine forecasts of future spot rates with forecasts from time-series models or macroeconomic variables. We find empirical evidence that accounting for both regimes in interest rate dynamics and combining forecasts from different models helps improve the out-of-sample forecasting performance for US short-term rates. Imposing restrictions from the expectations hypothesis on the forecasting model are found to help at long forecasting horizons.
Mutuality and movement: an exploration of self-help/mutual aid groups and their relationship to social policy

Since the 1970s all of the available literature suggested that the UK, in common with Europe, North America and Scandinavia, had seen significant growth of single issue self-help/mutual aid groups related to health and social care issues. Yet in the UK there appeared to be no real body of academic interest nor any sustained national policy initiatives. The aim of the study was therefore to enhance an understanding of the relationship of these self-help/mutual aid groups to UK social policy. The study was constructed in two parts. Part One, a historical study critically appraised the way in which the state appeared to have viewed and responded to various manifestations of self help/mutual aid, both pre- and post- the welfare state. Part Two, a case-study of two UK grassroots self-help/mutual aid groups explored members' viewpoints, their reasons for joining, benefits derived and the impact they felt it has had on their lives and their relations with professionals and wider `political' forums. The result of the study suggests a fundamental reframing of the relationship between self-help/mutual aid and the state is required at both a conceptual and practical level by UK policy makers and academics. This would acknowledge: that contemporary self-help/mutual aid groups are part of the broader tradition of voluntary action in the third sector, self-help/mutual aid's unique contribution in terms of social relations, process and knowledge; its difference from philanthropy/formal voluntary sector and therefore distinct characteristics and relations with the-state; and contemporary health and social care groups' potential dual identity with communities of interest and geographic communities and their relationship to and distinction from the contemporary service user and carer movements. 116, findings have implications for policy related to participation (citizen and health), social capital and citizenship.
Sensor Graphs for Guaranteed Cooperative Localization Performance

A group of mobile robots can localize cooperatively, using relative position and absolute orientation measurements, fused through an extended Kalman filter (ekf). The topology of the graph of relative measurements is known to affect the steady-state value of the position error covariance matrix. Classes of sensor graphs are identified, for which tight bounds for the trace of the covariance matrix can be obtained based on the algebraic properties of the underlying relative measurement graph. The string and the star graph topologies are considered, and the explicit form of the eigenvalues of error covariance matrix is given. More general sensor graph topologies are considered as combinations of the string and star topologies, when additional edges are added. It is demonstrated how the addition of edges increases the trace of the steady-state value of the position error covariance matrix, and the theoretical predictions are verified through simulation analysis.
Online Discourse as a Microdemocracy Tool: Towards New Discursive Epistemics for Policy Deliberation

The main objective of this study is to develop approaches and test methods that could lead to a better understanding of how knowledge is generated by citizens online in the course of Internet discussion for a more democratic policy making. The eventual goal is to create a Decision Support System using the collective intelligence of online discourses. The research applies Jurgen Habermas' concept of basic Validity Claims for analyzing the content of three online discourses in Russia in the context of the e-petition calling to revoke the law mandating to destroy the foodstuffs imported from the West. The research found that (a) the use of Validity Claims is an effective instrument of content analysis to distil specific knowledge that is collectively generated by discourse participants to discover not only dominant issues, but also reveal participants' groups behind them; (b) the outcome of online discourses depends on the affiliation and ownership of media outlet hosting discourses. Due to their epistemic potential, policy discourses online, especially in association with e-petitions, can be considered as microdemocracy institutions in the field of discursive decision making.
Effective Bandwith in High-Speed Digital Networks

The theory of large deviations provides a simple unified basis for statistical mechanics, information theory and queueing theory. The objective of this paper is to use large deviation theory and the Laplace method of integration to provide an simple intuitive overview of the theory of effective bandwidth for high-speed digital networks, especially ATM networks. This includes (1) identification of the appropriate energy function, entropy function and effective bandwidth function of a source, (2) the calculus of the effective bandwidth functions, (3) bandwidth allocation and buffer management, (4) traffic descriptors, and (5) envelope processes and conjugate processes for fast simulation and bounds. >
Perspective Taking, Cultural Stress, and the Individual: From the Inside Out

Abstract : In general, Western cultures focus on the world around the individual, and Eastern cultures focus on the group in which one belongs. In understanding how the American military interacts in foreign cultures, Soldier cultural perspectives, or what the individual Soldier brings to the table, must be understood to mitigate the potential effects of culture stress. The ability to maintain unit readiness and mission effectiveness in the midst of increasing peacekeeping missions ultimately depends on the performance of the Soldier. Personal, situational, and organizational factors within dynamic, changing, and stressful environments can affect a Soldier s overall performance. The U.S. Army Research Laboratory will investigate how Soldier individual differences, cultural stress, and perspective taking affect decision making through the Relevant Information for Social-Cultural Depiction. This report will show that inclusion of individual difference variables is essential to social-cultural model development, which will support predictions of decision-making performance in a multicultural environment.