Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Reconstruction et alignement en vision 3D : points, droites, plans et caméras

Cette these concerne la reconstruction de modeles 3D de scenes a partir d'images prises par des cameras. Il est courant de reconstruire a partir de sous-ensembles d'images puis de fusionner les modeles partiels ainsi obtenus par une phase d'alignement 3D. Les algorithmes de reconstruction et d'alignement s'appuient sur des correspondances de points ou de droites entre les images. La localisation de ces points ou droites dans les images est affectee par un bruit de mesure, influencant la qualite des modeles 3D reconstruits. Cette these est centree sur l'obtention de resultats optimaux et sur les problemes de representation qui en decoulent. La premiere partie de cette these aborde le probleme de la reconstruction de modeles 3D. Les cas des cameras calibrees et non calibrees sont traites. Nous developpons des methodes de reconstruction de points, de droites et de cameras. L'incorporation de contraintes geometriques de coplanarite permet la reconstruction conjointe de plans. Nos contributions principales sont le developpement et la comparaison de methodes permettant la reconstruction 3D optimale de points, droites, plans et cameras. La deuxieme partie de cette these aborde le probleme de l'alignement de modeles 3D, qui consiste a estimer la transformation geometrique liant deux modeles 3D. Les methodes existantes sont basees sur des correspondances de points. Nous etudions le cas des correspondances de droites. Les cas des cameras calibrees et non calibrees sont traites. Nos contributions majeures dans ce domaine sont, d'un point de vue theorique, une etude des transformations geometriques de droites 3D. Plus precisement, nous etendons la representation matricielle standard, adaptee aux points, en une representation adaptee aux droites. D'un point de vue pratique, nous developpons et comparons plusieurs methodes d'alignement lineaires et non-lineaires. Nous proposons finalement des methodes de reconstruction de modeles 3D lorsque la scene observee n'est pas rigide. Par ailleurs, nous developpons un methode de detection automatique de surfaces planes dans une modele 3D.
Expression of protein 4.1G in Schwann cells of the peripheral nervous system

The membrane‐associated cytoskeletal proteins, including protein 4.1 family, play important roles in membrane integrity, protein targeting, and signal transduction. Although protein 4.1G (4.1G) is expressed ubiquitously in mammalian tissues, it can have very discrete distributions within cells. The present study investigated the expression and distributions of 4.1G in rodent sciatic nerve. Northern and Western blot analysis detected abundant 4.1G mRNA and protein in rat sciatic nerve extracts. Immunohistochemical staining with a 4.1G‐specific antibody and double immunolabeling with E‐cadherin, βIV spectrin, and connexin 32 detected 4.1G in paranodal loops, Schmidt‐Lanterman incisures, and periaxonal, mesaxonal, and abaxonal membranes of rodent sciatic nerve. Immunoelectron microscopy confirmed the immunodistribution of 4.1G in Schwann cells. In developing mouse sciatic nerves, 4.1G was diffusely distributed in immature Schwann cells and gradually localized at paranodes, incisures, and periaxonal and mesaxonal membranes during their maturation. These data support the concept that 4.1G plays an important role in the membrane expansion and specialization that occurs during formation and maintenance of myelin internodes in the peripheral nervous system. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Conform or To Be Cast Out: Quantifying the Effect of Platform Endorsement and Consumer Generated Reputation in Online Service Marketplace Demand System

This paper measures the effectiveness of platform endorsement and consumergenerated reputation on sellers’ demand in online service marketplace. We apply BLPstyle model to understand consumers’ heterogeneous sensitivity to platform endorsement and consumer-generated reputation with endogeneity issue handled nicely. In addition, we investigate “conform or to be cast out” policy, which is applied by the platform to enforce sellers to improve one typical platform endorsement as platform refund insurance. Our results provide measurable evidence for that individuals exhibit consistent sensitivity to consumer-generated reputation, whereas perceive most of platform endorsement differently. With regard to the policy, it shows that though “cast out” reduce variety of sellers and thus decreases platform-wise demand and consumer welfare, the negative effect is offset by improvement of platform refund insurance by conforming sellers. Furthermore, we find that the policy shock would lead sellers’ further quality escalation, which indirectly benefits platform demand and consumer welfare.
Transient adhesion refractoriness of circulating platelets under shear stress: the role of partial activation and microaggregate formation by suboptimal ADP concentration

Exposure of whole blood (WB) to subendothelial extracellular matrix (ECM) under shear stress in the cone and plate(let) analyser (CPA) results in platelet adhesion, followed by release reaction and aggregation of circulating platelets on the adherent platelets. The properties of circulating non‐adhered platelets in the CPA was studied by exposure of WB to ECM at a high shear rate (1300/s) for 2 min (1st run), followed by transfer of the suspension to a new ECM‐coated well for a second run (2nd run) under similar conditions. The results of the 2nd run demonstrated transient adhesion refractoriness associated with platelet microaggregate formation in the suspension. The adhesion refractoriness was dependent on platelet activation during the 1st run and was prevented by addition of apyrase (ADP scavenger) or ADP receptor inhibitor, suggesting a role for ADP in mediating this response. Furthermore, exposure of WB samples to suboptimal concentrations of ADP (0·4–1 μmol/l) or a thrombin receptor activating peptide (TRAP) (5 μmol/l) for 2 min resulted in a similar transient platelet adhesion refractoriness to ECM under flow conditions. The transient platelet refractoriness and microaggregate formation induced by ADP was associated with a transient reduction in glycoprotein (GP)Ib, increased P‐selectin expression and increased fibrinogen binding by circulating platelets. These data suggest a role for platelet agonists at suboptimal concentrations in modulating platelet function and limiting the expansion of the thrombus.
The Singapore swing

Abstract The use of a rotation pedicled flap, entitled the ‘Singapore Swing’, comprising temporalis fascia and mastoid periosteum, is presented as a new method of promoting healing in ‘open’ mastoid surgery for chronic ear discharge. Cadaver studies show that the main blood supply of the flap is derived from a branch of the postauricular artery which enters the pedicle near the mastoid tip. A review of the first 14 operations showed complete healing with dry ears and intact tympanic membranes in all instances, three cases requiring secondary grafting of residual perforations. We consider the results sufficiently encouraging to merit an extended trial ofthe technique.
Co-Optimization Scheme for Distributed Energy Resource Planning in Community Microgrids

Microgrids with distributed energy resources are being favored in various communities to lower the dependence on utility-supplied energy and cut the CO2 emissions from coal-based power plants. This paper presents a co-optimization strategy for distributed energy resource planning to minimize total annualized cost at the maximal fuel savings. Furthermore, the proposed scheme aids the community microgrids in satisfying the requirements of U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and state renewable energy mandates. The method of Lagrange multipliers is employed to maximize fuel savings by satisfying Karush–Kuhn–Tucker conditions. With the Fourier transform and particle swarm optimization, the right mix of distributed energy resources is determined to decrease the annualized cost. A case study to test the proposed scheme for a community microgrid is presented. To validate its effectiveness, an economic justification of the solution and its comparison with HOMER Pro are also illustrated.
SYNCRIP-dependent Nox2 mRNA destabilization impairs ROS formation in M2-polarized macrophages.

AIMS During sepsis, macrophages are alternatively activated toward an M2-like phenotype on contact with apoptotic cells (ACs) or their secretion products. Simultaneously, NADPH oxidase-dependent reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation is attenuated, thus contributing to immune paralysis. However, the exact mechanism remains elusive. Here, we provide mechanistic insights into diminished mRNA stability of the NADPH oxidase Nox2 on macrophage M2 polarization and therefore reduced ROS formation in sepsis. RESULTS Murine J774A.1 macrophages were stimulated with conditioned medium (CM) of apoptotic T cells, which reduced Nox2 mRNA and protein expression, consequently decreasing ROS production. An mRNA pulldown approach coupled to mass spectrometry analysis identified the RNA-binding protein SYNCRIP attached to the Nox2 mRNA 3' untranslated region (3'UTR). The binding of SYNCRIP to the 3'UTR of Nox2 mRNA is attenuated after treatment with CM of apoptotic T cells, followed by Nox2 mRNA destabilization. In in vivo models of polymicrobial sepsis such as cecal ligation and puncture, SYNCRIP was strongly downregulated, which was associated with a decreased Nox2 expression in peritoneal macrophages. INNOVATION Downregulation of SYNCRIP in macrophages after contact to material of ACs destabilized Nox2 mRNA and impaired ROS formation, thereby contributing to an M2 phenotype shift of macrophages in sepsis. CONCLUSION M2 polarization of macrophages in sepsis results in an attenuated SYNCRIP binding to the 3'UTR of Nox2 mRNA, destabilizing Nox2 mRNA abundance and expression. Consequently, ROS formation needed to fight against recurrent infections is impaired. In conclusion, SYNCRIP-regulated Nox2 mRNA degradation mediates the hypoinflammatory phase of sepsis.
Long QT mutations at the interface between KCNQ1 helix C and KCNE1 disrupt IKS regulation by PKA and PIP2

ABSTRACT KCNQ1 and KCNE1 co-assembly generates the IKS K+ current, which is crucial to the cardiac action potential repolarization. Mutations in their corresponding genes cause long QT syndrome (LQT) and atrial fibrillation. The A-kinase anchor protein, yotiao (also known as AKAP9), brings the IKS channel complex together with signaling proteins to achieve regulation upon &bgr;1-adrenergic stimulation. Recently, we have shown that KCNQ1 helix C interacts with the KCNE1 distal C-terminus. We postulated that this interface is crucial for IKS channel modulation. Here, we examined the yet unknown molecular mechanisms of LQT mutations located at this intracellular intersubunit interface. All LQT mutations disrupted the internal KCNQ1–KCNE1 intersubunit interaction. LQT mutants in KCNQ1 helix C led to a decreased current density and a depolarizing shift of channel activation, mainly arising from impaired phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) modulation. In the KCNE1 distal C-terminus, the LQT mutation P127T suppressed yotiao-dependent cAMP-mediated upregulation of the IKS current, which was caused by reduced KCNQ1 phosphorylation at S27. Thus, KCNQ1 helix C is important for channel modulation by PIP2, whereas the KCNE1 distal C-terminus appears essential for the regulation of IKS by yotiao-mediated PKA phosphorylation.
Synaptic target selectivity and input of GABAergic basket and bistratified interneurons in the CA1 area of the rat hippocampus

To assess the position of interneurons in the hippocampal network, fast spiking cells were recorded intracellularly in vitro and filled with biocytin. Sixteen non‐principal cells were selected on the basis of 1) cell bodies located in the pyramidal layer and in the middle of the slice, 2) extensive labeling of their axons, and 3) a branching pattern of the axon indicating that they were not axo‐axonic cells. Examination of their efferent synapses (n = 400) demonstrated that the cells made synapses on cell bodies, dendritic shafts, spines, and axon initial segments (AIS). Statistical analysis of the distribution of different postsynaptic elements, together with published data (n = 288) for 12 similar cells, showed that the interneurons were heterogeneous with regard to the frequency of synapses given to different parts of pyramidal cells. When the cells were grouped according to whether they had less or more than 40% somatic synaptic targets, each population appeared homogeneous. The population (n = 19) innervating a high proportion of somata (53 ± 10%, SD) corresponds to basket cells. They also form synapses with proximal dendrites (44 ± 12%) and rarely with AISs and spines. One well‐filled basket cell had 8,859 boutons within the slice, covering an area of 0.331 mm2 of pyramidal layer tangentially and containing 7,150 pyramidal cells, 933 (13%) of which were calculated to be innervated, assuming that each pyramidal cell received nine to ten synapses. It was extrapolated that the intact axon probably had about 10,800 boutons innervating 1,140 pyramids. The proportion of innervated pyramidal cells decreased from 28% in the middle to 4% at the edge of the axonal field.
Impact of 154-kV HTS Cable to Protection Systems of the Power Grid in South Korea

This paper presents the impact of HTS cables on the protective relay systems in a practical power transmission system. We particularly review the quenching possibility of 154-kV HTS cables and setting of existing distance relays in Jeju power system. Then, we propose a protection scheme for the first demonstration of the 154-kV HTS cable at Jeju power system in South Korea. The proposed protection scheme is verified by PSCAD/EMTDC simulations.
The penC mutation conferring antibiotic resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae arises from a mutation in the PilQ secretin that interferes with multimer stability

The penC resistance gene was previously characterized in an FA19 penA mtrR penB gonococcal strain (PR100) as a spontaneous mutation that increased resistance to penicillin and tetracycline. We show here that antibiotic resistance mediated by penC is the result of a Glu‐666 to Lys missense mutation in the pilQ gene that interferes with the formation of the SDS‐resistant high‐molecular‐mass PilQ secretin complex, disrupts piliation and decreases transformation frequency by 50‐fold. Deletion of pilQ in PR100 confers the same level of antibiotic resistance as the penC mutation, but increased resistance was observed only in strains containing the mtrR and penB resistance determinants. Site‐saturation mutagenesis of Glu‐666 revealed that only acidic or amidated amino acids at this position preserved PilQ function. Consistent with early studies suggesting the importance of cysteine residues for stability of the PilQ multimer, mutation of either of the two cysteine residues in FA19 PilQ led to a similar phenotype as penC: increased antibiotic resistance, loss of piliation, intermediate levels of transformation competence and absence of SDS‐resistant PilQ oligomers. These data show that a functional secretin complex can enhance the entry of antibiotics into the cell and suggest that the PilQ oligomer forms a pore in the outer membrane through which antibiotics diffuse into the periplasm.
The severity of alcohol dependence questionnaire: its use, reliability and validity.

Summary The clinical value of assessing degree of alcohol dependence is discussed in relation to goals of treatment. Further information is then provided on the use, reliability and validity of an instrument designed for this purpose -the SADQ. ‘Norms’ for SADQ scores from three samples of problem drinkers are given. Data indicating that individual items, sections and also the total scores of the SADQ have consistently high test-retest reliability coefficients are presented. A study is described in which a degree of construct validity is established by relating SADQ scores to one important component of the alcohol dependence syndrome [2]-narrowing of drinking repertoire. In addition, it is shown that SADQ scores have low, but significant, correlations with indicators of withdrawal severity for individuals treated at a Detoxification Unit. SADQ scores failed to correlate with indices of liver functioning. These results are discussed and it is concluded the SADQ is a quick, reliable and valid instrument.
Power system stabilizers tuning using bio-inspired algorithm

This paper presents a methodology for coordinated tuning of power system stabilizers taking into account a set of pre-specified operating conditions. The tuning procedure is formulated as an optimization problem which aims to maximize the system damping ratio. The proposed methodology is based on the bio-inspired Modified Cuckoo Search method. The methodology is applied for coordinated stabilizer tuning to New England test system. The results obtained are compared with a genetic algorithm approach.
A DC Power Exchange Highway Based Power Flow Management for Interconnected Microgrid Clusters

In this paper, the concept of dc power exchange highway (DCPEH) is introduced to interconnect a cluster of ac microgrids (MGs) to facilitate an efficient and resilient energy system. A power flow controller is proposed to manage the power flow between an MG and DCPEH, based on local load demand, surplus power, and power shortfall of an individual MG. This control integrated with DCPEH will improve the resiliency and reliability of MG clusters by utilizing the maximum available power from uncertain distributed energy resources (DERs) like solar or wind energy conversion systems in individual MGs. Each MG is connected to the DCPEH through an active front-end converter and a storage capacitor. The converter holds the dc voltage at a pre-defined value. A dynamic droop control for the DCPEH is adopted to effectively distribute the power demand between MGs. In this paper, it has been assumed that the cluster operates autonomously with the presence of a utility grid. It has been further assumed that the MGs are dominated by converter interfaced DERs, and hence, the power sharing is performed using angle droop control. To verify the efficacy of the interconnected MG clusters using DCPEH, various simulation studies are conducted using power system computer aided design electro magnetic transient design and control.
Modulation of Vasoactivity and Platelet Aggregation by Selective 5-HT Receptor Antagonism in Humans

Background Distinct serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] receptors are involved in platelet aggregation and vasoconstriction. Compounds that simultaneously and selectively inhibit the pertaining 5-HT receptors may therefore represent a therapeutic strategy for arterial thrombosis, observed frequently after atherosclerotic plaque rupture. The vasoactive and antiplatelet effects of the combined 5-HT1B and 5-HT2A receptor blocker SL65.0472-00 were investigated in humans to elucidate the functional involvement of these receptors. Methods Twenty-four volunteers, divided into 2 groups of 12, received an oral dose of 20 mg of SL65.0472-00 or placebo in a randomized, double-blind, crossover study. Pre dose and at 2, 4, and 6 hours after dosing, intra-arterial infusions of 5-HT1B agonist sumatriptan (n = 12) or 5-HT (n = 12) were administered. Forearm blood flow (FBF) was measured using plethysmography, and platelet aggregation was measured using whole blood aggregometry induced by a combination of a threshold collagen concentration and an excess of 5-HT. Treatments were compared using analysis of variance. Results After placebo treatment, infusion of 1 ng·kg−1·min−1 5-HT induced vasodilatation (FBF +80% change from baseline), whereas infusion of 30 and 80 ng·kg−1·min−1 5-HT resulted in vasoconstriction (FBF −25% and −50%). After SL65.0472-00 treatment, all 5-HT doses induced vasodilatation (FBF +25%–60%). Sumatriptan dose dependently decreased FBF (maximally −35%), but this effect was not altered by SL65.0472-00 treatment. 5-HT–induced platelet aggregation was effectively inhibited by 90% after SL65.0472-00 treatment for at least 6 hours. Conclusions SL65.0472-00 has potent antagonistic effect on 5-HT–induced vasoconstriction and platelet aggregation but not on sumatriptan-induced vasoconstriction. This suggests that in humans, SL65.0472-00 is a 5-HT2A blocker without clear 5-HT1B antagonistic activity.
Telephone Triage: A Timely Data Source for Surveillance of Influenza-like Diseases

We evaluated telephone triage (TT) data for public health early warning systems. TT data is electronically available and contains coded elements that include the demographics and description of a caller's medical complaints. In the study, we obtained emergency room TT data and after hours TT data from a commercial TT software and service company. We compared the timeliness of the TT data with influenza surveillance data from the Centers for Disease Control using the cross correlation function. Emergency room TT calls are one to five weeks ahead of surveillance data collected by the CDC.
Estimation of adult antiretroviral treatment coverage in South Africa.

OBJECTIVES To estimate the annual numbers of individuals receiving antiretroviral treatment in South Africa up to mid-2008, and the coverage of antiretroviral treatment in adults according to various definitions of need. METHODS Antiretroviral coverage is defined as the number of patients receiving antiretroviral treatment at a point in time, divided by the number needing treatment. Numbers of patients receiving antiretroviral treatment are estimated from public sector data, and data provided by disease management programmes and NGO programmes. The unmet need for treatment in adults is estimated using a Markov model of HIV progression in adults, combined with estimates of annual new HIV infections from a national AIDS and demographic model. RESULTS By the middle of 2008, 568 000 adults and children were receiving antiretroviral treatment in South Africa, with the public health sector accounting for 79% of this total. Using the current Department of Health criteria for defining antiretroviral eligibility (CD4+ count <200/microl or World Health Organization (WHO) stage 4), antiretroviral coverage in adults was 40.2% in 2008--up from 4.9% in 2004. Coverage increases to 54.2% if eligibility is based on WHO stage 4 only, but falls to 22.2% if the Southern African HIV Clinicians Society guidelines are used to define eligibility. Coverage in 2008 varied between provinces, from 25.8% in the Free State to 71.7% in the Western Cape. CONCLUSIONS Significant progress has been made in expanding access to antiretroviral treatment in South Africa since 2004, but a substantial unmet need for treatment in adults remains.
An introduction to the partial least squares approach to structural equation modelling: a method for exploratory psychiatric research

In psychiatry and psychology, relationship patterns connecting disorders and risk factors are always complex and intricate. Advanced statistical methods have been developed to overcome this issue, the most common being structural equation modelling (SEM). The main approach to SEM (CB‐SEM for covariance‐based SEM) has been widely used by psychiatry and psychology researchers to test whether a comprehensive theoretical model is compatible with observed data. While the validity of this approach method has been demonstrated, its application is limited in some situations, such as early‐stage exploratory studies using small sample sizes. The partial least squares approach to SEM (PLS‐SEM) has risen in many scientific fields as an alternative method that is especially useful when sample size restricts the use of CB‐SEM. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive introduction to PLS‐SEM intended to CB‐SEM users in psychiatric and psychological fields, with an illustration using data on suicidality among prisoners. Researchers in these fields could benefit from PLS‐SEM, a promising exploratory technique well adapted to studies on infrequent diseases or specific population subsets. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.