Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous Hand Pose and Skeleton Bone-Lengths Estimation from a Single Depth Image

Articulated hand pose estimation is a challenging task for human-computer interaction. The state-of-the-art hand pose estimation algorithms work only with one or a few subjects for which they have been calibrated or trained. Particularly, the hybrid methods based on learning followed by model fitting or model based deep learning do not explicitly consider varying hand shapes and sizes. In this work, we introduce a novel hybrid algorithm for estimating the 3D hand pose as well as bone-lengths of the hand skeleton at the same time, from a single depth image. The proposed CNN architecture learns hand pose parameters and scale parameters associated with the bone-lengths simultaneously. Subsequently, a new hybrid forward kinematics layer employs both parameters to estimate 3D joint positions of the hand. For end-to-end training, we combine three public datasets NYU, ICVL and MSRA-2015 in one unified format to achieve large variation in hand shapes and sizes. Among hybrid methods, our method shows improved accuracy over the state-of-the-art on the combined dataset and the ICVL dataset that contain multiple subjects. Also, our algorithm is demonstrated to work well with unseen images.
Bacterial Endophytes as a Promising Approach to Enhance the Growth and Accumulation of Bioactive Metabolites of Three Species of Chenopodium Sprouts

Sprouts are regarded as an untapped source of bioactive components that display various biological properties. Endophytic bacterium inoculation can enhance plant chemical composition and improve its nutritional quality. Herein, six endophytes (Endo 1 to Endo 6) were isolated from Chenopodium plants and morphologically and biochemically identified. Then, the most active isolate Endo 2 (strain JSA11) was employed to enhance the growth and nutritive value of the sprouts of three Chenopodium species, i.e., C. ambrosoides, C. ficifolium, and C. botrys. Endo 2 (strain JSA11) induced photosynthesis and the mineral uptake, which can explain the high biomass accumulation. Endo 2 (strain JSA11) improved the nutritive values of the treated sprouts through bioactive metabolite (antioxidants, vitamins, unsaturated fatty acid, and essential amino acids) accumulation. These increases were correlated with increased amino acid levels and phenolic metabolism. Consequently, the antioxidant activity of the Endo 2 (strain JSA11)-treated Chenopodium sprouts was enhanced. Moreover, Endo 2 (strain JSA11) increased the antibacterial activity against several pathogenic bacteria and the anti-inflammatory activities as evidenced by the reduced activity of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase. Overall, the Endo 2 (strain JSA11) treatment is a successful technique to enhance the bioactive contents and biological properties of Chenopodium sprouts.
Cloning and characterization of the T(15;17) translocation breakpoint region in acute promyelocytic leukemia

A reciprocal chromosomal translocation, t(15;17)(q22;q11.2‐12), is characteristic of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) of French‐American‐British (FAB) subtype M3, and is not associated with any other human malignancy. The non‐random pattern of the APL translocations suggests that specific genes on chromosomes 15 and 17 are somehow altered or deregulated as a consequence of the rearrangement. Translocation breakpoints in APL patients provide physical landmarks that suggest an approach to isolating the APL gene(s). Genetic and physical maps constructed for the APL breakpoint region on chromosome 17 have indicated that two fully‐linked DNA markers, defining loci for THRA1 and D17S80, map to opposite sides of an APL breakpoint yet reside on a common 350‐kb Cla1 fragment. Cosmid‐walking experiments to clone this APL breakpoint have revealed a 38‐kilobase deletion on chromosome 17. Studies in additional APL patients have shown that the breakpoint region on chromosome 17 spans at least 80 kilobases.
Nursing Home Candidates: Hospital Inpatient Trial to Identify Those Appropriately Assignable to Less Intensive Care

Primary care physicians are often confronted with demands that elderly patients be institutionalized. Patients who appear to have no new medical problems present a therapeutic dilemma. Should they be admitted to a general hospital or should they be placed directly in a nursing home? This longitudinal prospective study involved 29 consecutive elderly patients judged to be in need of nursing home placement but who were without medical indications for admission. They were assessed and treated in a 30‐bed ward of a general hospital. The mean length of stay was 19 days. Of the 29 patients, 8 (24 percent) benefited from the hospitalization; the outcome was placement and retention at a level of care less intensive than that in a nursing home. On admission to this special ward, the presence of 2 of the following 3 characteristics identified the patients who would benefit from this preplacement hospitalization (with 75 percent sensitivity and 86 percent specificity): 1) a score of A or B (Katz Scale) for activities of daily living; 2) a score of 3 or fewer errors on the mental status scale (Pfeiffer); and 3) the presence of family members willing to care for the patient, although unable to do so at the time of admission. These 3 factors constitute a screening tool to differentiate elderly patients who will benefit most under a regimen of intensive rehabilitation from those who will be inevitable recipients of long‐term care.
Distributed Robust Receding Horizon Control for Multivehicle Guidance

This paper presents a new distributed robust model predictive control algorithm for multivehicle trajectory optimization and demonstrates the approach with numerical simulations and multivehicle experiments. The technique builds on the robust-safe-but-knowledgeable (RSBK) algorithm, which is developed in this paper for the multivehicle case. RSBK uses constraint tightening to achieve robustness to external disturbances, an invariant set to ensure safety in the presence of changes to the environment, and a cost-to-go function to generate an intelligent trajectory around known obstacles. The key advantage of this RSBK algorithm is that it enables the use of much shorter planning horizons while still preserving the robust feasibility guarantees of previously proposed approaches. The second contribution of this paper is a distributed version of the RSBK algorithm, which is more suitable for real-time execution. In the distributed RSBK (DRSBK) algorithm, each vehicle only optimizes for its own decisions by solving a subproblem of reduced size, which results in shorter computation times. Furthermore, the algorithm retains the robust feasibility guarantees of the centralized approach while requiring that each agent only have local knowledge of the environment and neighbor vehicles' plans. This new approach also facilitates the use of a significantly more general implementation architecture for the distributed trajectory optimization, which further decreases the delay due to computation time.
A new generation of algorithms for computerized threshold perimetry, SITA.

PURPOSE The purpose of this work was to develop a new family of test algorithms for computerized static threshold perimetry which significantly reduces test time without any reduction of data quality. METHODS A comprehensive visual field model constructed from available knowledge of normal and glaucomatous visual fields is continuously updated during testing. The model produces threshold estimates and also estimates of the certainty to which the threshold is known at each point. Testing is interrupted at each test location at predetermined levels of threshold certainty. New time-saving methods are employed for estimation of false answers, and test pacing is optimized. After completion of the test, all threshold estimates are re-computed, taking into account the complete body of patient responses. Computer simulations were used to optimize the different parameters of the new algorithms, to evaluate the relative importance of those parameters, and to evaluate the performance of the algorithm as a whole in comparison with a standard algorithm. RESULTS Simulated test results obtained with this algorithm were slightly more accurate than those of the Humphrey Full Threshold test algorithm. The number of simulated stimuli presented was reduced by an average of 29% in normal fields and 26% in glaucomatous fields. Actual clinical test time should be further reduced, since the influence of the improved timing algorithm was not included in the simulations. CONCLUSIONS We applied new methods which take available knowledge of visual field physiology and pathophysiology into account, and employ modern computer-intensive mathematical methods for real time estimates of threshold values and threshold error estimates. In this way it was possible to design a family of testing algorithms which significantly reduced perimetric test time without any loss of quality in results.
Solvent Effects on Phenolic Contents and Antioxidant Activities of the Echinops Spinosus and the Limoniastrum Monopetalum.

Limoniastrum monopetalum is a traditional medicinal species whose leaves exhibit antidysenteric properties against infectious diseases. Even the Echinops spinosus is used as a vasoconstricteur in varix and hemorrhoid. In this study, four kinds of extracts were used to examine the effect of extraction solvent system on polyphenol contents and DPPH scavenging activity. Results showed that polyphenol contents and antioxidant activities varied considerably as function of solvent polarity. Plant extract using ethanol showed the highest polyphenol content with the two plants. Moreover, antiradical capacities against DPPH are maxima in an ethanol extract of two plants. Our findings identified the appropriate solvent for extracting phenolics which
Clinical significance of global two-dimensional strain as a surrogate parameter of myocardial fibrosis and cardiac events in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

AIMS Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) on contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) has been reported to be associated with myocardial fibrosis and cardiac events. In patients with HCM, two-dimensional (2D) strain can identify subclinical global systolic dysfunction despite normal left ventricular (LV) chamber function. Therefore, this study tested the hypothesis that global 2D strain could detect subtle myocardial fibrosis and serve as a novel prognostic parameter in HCM patients. METHODS AND RESULTS Echocardiography and MRI were performed in 48 consecutive patients with HCM and normal chamber function. We measured global longitudinal strain (GLS) in apical two-chamber, four-chamber, and long-axis views using speckle-tracking analysis. The extent of LGE (%LGE = LGE volume/total LV volume) and LV mass index were calculated by MRI using Simpson's rule and custom software. All patients were followed up for major cardiac events. Global longitudinal strain in patients with LGE was significantly lower than that without LGE (-11.8 ± 2.8 vs. -15.0 ± 1.7%, P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that GLS was an independent predictor of %LGE (standard coefficient = 0.627, P < 0.001). During a mean follow-up period of 42 ± 12 months, five patients had cardiac events. When the patients were stratified based on the median level of GLS (-12.9%), all events were observed in the worse GLS group (P = 0.018). CONCLUSION These results suggest that global 2D strain might provide useful information on myocardial fibrosis and cardiac events in HCM patients with normal chamber function.
Stroke risk prediction model based on demographic data

Nowadays stroke is the third leading cause of mortality of all life periods. The statistics from the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Board (NESDB) between 1994 and 2013 found that the stroke caused 255,307 cases mortality. Period of treatment in stroke patients depends on symptom and damage of organs. It seems to be beneficial if the data analysis method likes data mining can be used to predict stroke disease to reduce amount of risk patients before initial disease. In this study, three classification algorithms: Decision Tree, Naive Bayes and Neural Network are used for predicting stroke which are model-based, superior to general statistics, and got a proper model for identification. The scope of data use is the demographic information of patients. This work was initialized by attributes selection, grouping, and resampling before modeling. This study uses the accuracy and area under ROC curve (AUC) as the indicators for evaluation. Decision tree is the most accurate and Naive Bayes is the best in AUC. The further research should also include patients' diagnosis.
R-learning-based team game model for Internet of things quality-of-service control scheme

In modern times, it has been observed that Internet of things technology makes it possible for connecting various smart objects together through the Internet. For the effective Internet of things management, it is necessary to design and develop service models that ensure appropriate level of quality-of-service. Therefore, the design of quality-of-service management schemes has been a hot research issue. In this work, we formulate a new quality-of-service management scheme based on the IoT system power control algorithm. Using the emerging and largely unexplored concept of the R-learning algorithm and docitive paradigm, system agents can teach other agents how to adjust their power levels while reducing computation complexity and speeding up the learning process. Therefore, our proposed power control approach can provide the ability to practically respond to current Internet of things system conditions and suitable for real wireless communication operations. Finally, we validate the introduced concept and confirm the effectiveness of the proposed scheme in comparison with the existing schemes through extensive simulation analysis.
Optimization of the short-circuit current in an InP nanowire array solar cell through opto-electronic modeling

InP nanowire arrays with axial p-i-n junctions are promising devices for next-generation photovoltaics, with a demonstrated efficiency of 13.8%. However, the short-circuit current in such arrays does not match their absorption performance. Here, through combined optical and electrical modeling, we study how the absorption of photons and separation of the resulting photogenerated electron–hole pairs define and limit the short-circuit current in the nanowires. We identify how photogenerated minority carriers in the top n segment (i.e. holes) diffuse to the ohmic top contact where they recombine without contributing to the short-circuit current. In our modeling, such contact recombination can lead to a 60% drop in the short-circuit current. To hinder such hole diffusion, we include a gradient doping profile in the n segment to create a front surface barrier. This approach leads to a modest 5% increase in the short-circuit current, limited by Auger recombination with increased doping. A more efficient approach is to switch the n segment to a material with a higher band gap, like GaP. Then, a much smaller number of holes is photogenerated in the n segment, strongly limiting the amount that can diffuse and disappear into the top contact. For a 500 nm long top segment, the GaP approach leads to a 50% higher short-circuit current than with an InP top segment. Such a long top segment could facilitate the fabrication and contacting of nanowire array solar cells. Such design schemes for managing minority carriers could open the door to higher performance in single- and multi-junction nanowire-based solar cells.
Differences in Bacterial Community Structure in Two Color Morphs of the Hawaiian Reef Coral Montipora capitata

ABSTRACT Corals harbor diverse bacterial associations that contribute to the health of the host. Using 16S rRNA pyrosequencing, we compared the bacterial communities of red and orange morphs of the Hawaiian coral Montipora capitata. Although both color morphs shared dominant bacterial genera, weighted and unweighted UniFrac analyses showed distinct bacterial communities. A single operational taxonomic unit (OTU), classified as Vibrio, represented the largest driver of differences between the color morphs. This OTU comprised 35.4% (±5.5%) of the orange morph bacterial community yet comprised 1.1% (±0.6%) of the red morph bacterial community. Cultivable bacteria from the two color morphs were also compared and tested for antibacterial activity. Cultured isolates represented 14 genera (7% of the total genera identified from sequencing data), and all but two cultured isolates had a matching OTU from the sequencing data. Half of the isolates tested (8 out of 16) displayed antibacterial activity against other cultured isolates but not against two known bacterial pathogens of M. capitata. The results from this study demonstrate that the specificity of coral-bacterial associations extends beyond the level of coral species. In addition, culture-dependent methods captured bacterial diversity that was representative of both rare and abundant members of the associated bacterial community, as characterized by culture-independent methods.
Experimental results on robust tracking control of a lab helicopter under wind disturbances

The flight performances of an unmanned helicopter can be affected by wind gusts when they are taking aggressive missions. In this paper, the position control problem is investigated under unknown wind disturbances for a laboratory helicopter. A robust controller is designed in two steps: firstly, a static linear feedback controller is applied to get exact tracking for the nominal system; then, a robust compensator is introduced to reduce the effects of the uncertainties. It is proven that the tracking error can be guaranteed to converge to the neighborhood of the origin with designated boundary. Experimental results on the helicopter are also given to confirm the effectiveness of the method.
Hexafluorine vs. Standard Decontamination to Reduce Systemic Toxicity After Dermal Exposure to Hydrofluoric Acid

Introduction. Dermal exposure to hydrofluoric acid (HF) may cause severe burns and systemic toxicity. Hexafluorine® (Prevor, France) is a product marketed as an emergency decontamination fluid for HF skin and eye exposures. Documentation concerning Hexafluorine is scanty, and a recent study indicates that its ability to reduce HF burns is at most equal to that of water. Objective. The present study was conducted to evaluate Hexafluorine's capacity to reduce HF‐induced systemic toxicity. Methods. Sprague Dawley rats were anesthetized, catheterized in the left femoral artery, and shaved on their back. A filter paper (3.5 × 6 cm) was soaked in 50% HF and applied on the back of each rat for 3 min. Thirty seconds after removal of the paper, a 3‐min rinsing with either 500 mL Hexafluorine (group H), 500 mL water (group W), or 500 mL water followed by a single application of 2.5% calcium gluconate gel (group Ca) was carried out. Blood samples were analyzed for ionized calcium and potassium (before injury and 1, 2, 3, and 4 h after) and also for ionized fluoride (1, 2, and 4 h after injury). Results. The animals developed hypocalcemia, hyperkalemia, and hyperfluoridemia after the HF exposure. The only significant difference observed among the groups was in serum potassium at 1 h between group Ca and group W. However, there was a constant trend toward milder hypocalcemia and less pronounced hyperkalemia in group Ca compared to the other groups. There were no differences in the electrolyte disturbances between the Hexafluorine‐treated animals and those treated with water only. Five of 39 animals died before completion of the experiment as a result of the HF exposure, one from group Ca and two from each of the other two groups. Conclusion. In this experimental study, decontamination with Hexafluorine was not more effective than water rinsing in reducing electrolyte disturbances caused by dermal exposure to hydrofluoric acid.
SEL1L nucleates a protein complex required for dislocation of misfolded glycoproteins

Membrane and secretory proteins that fail to pass quality control in the endoplasmic reticulum are discharged into the cytosol and degraded by the proteasome. Many of the mammalian components involved in this process remain to be identified. We performed a biochemical search for proteins that interact with SEL1L, a protein that is part of the mammalian HRD1 ligase complex and involved in substrate recognition. SEL1L is crucial for dislocation of Class I major histocompatibility complex heavy chains by the human cytomegalovirus US11 protein. We identified AUP1, UBXD8, UBC6e, and OS9 as functionally important components of this degradation complex in mammalian cells, as confirmed by mutagenesis and dominant negative versions of these proteins.
THE EFFECT OF GROWTH HORMONE ON THE LEYDIG CELL RESPONSE TO CHORIONIC GONADOTROPHIN IN BOYS WITH HYPOPITUITARISM

Eleven boys with growth hormone (hGH) deficiency received human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) stimulation tests for the assessment of Leydig cell function before, during, and after 1 year of treatment with somatotrophin. Two patients entered puberty during the course of the study protocol. Analysis of the data in nine prepubertal boys revealed an augmentation of testosterone (T) responses to hCG in the presence of hGH. In six of these individuals in whom dihydrotestosterone (DHT) was determined, a similar augmentation in responsiveness of this steroid was found in the presence of hGH. Three prepubertal boys exhibited poor T responses to the basal hCG test with only partial improvement following hGH. In man growth hormone may be an important permissive factor in Leydig cell activity during periods of changing testicular function such as occur in utero or during puberty.
The Effect of Public Policies on Consumers' Preferences: Lessons from the French Automobile Market

In this paper, we investigate whether French consumers have modified their preferences towards environmentally-friendly vehicles between 2003 and 2008. We estimate a model of demand for automobiles incorporating both consumers' heterogeneity and CO2 emissions of the vehicles. Our results show that there has been a shift in preferences towards low-emitting cars, with an average increase of 367 euros of the willingness to pay for a reduction of 10 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer. We also stress a large heterogeneity in the evolution of preferences between consumers. Rich and young people are more sensitive to environmental issues, and our results are in line with votes for the green party at the presidential elections. We relate these changes with two environmental policies that were introduced at these times, namely the obligation of indicating energy labels by the end of 2005 and a feebate based on CO2 emissions of new vehicles in 2008. Our results suggest that such policies have been efficient tools to shift consumers utility towards environmentally-friendly goods, the shift in preferences accounting for 20% of the overall decrease in average CO2 emissions of new cars on the period.
Synthesizing state machines from two scenarios and a case study on business process management

Describing business processes by directed graphs is a common way for system designers, because it makes easier to realize how the process goes on. However the concept of serviceoriented architecture increased difficulty of the business process management system development, because the specification of the whole system and each software unit are different in general. Therefore, describing behavioral model for each software units is required. A flow of interaction of software unit is called a scenario. In our previous study, we showed the algorithm to synthesize model of each software unit when specification of whole system is given by one scenario. In this paper, we show conditions to synthesize models when the whole system has two scenarios. We also apply the conditions to a simple business process.