Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Pereskia and the Origin of the Cactus Life‐Form

The cactus life‐form is cited as an example of a tight relationship between organism form and function: a succulent, long‐lived, photosynthetic stem allows cacti to survive long periods of drought while maintaining a positive tissue water status. Pereskia (Cactaceae) comprises 17 species of leafy shrubs and trees that are thought to represent the original cactus condition. Recent phylogenetic work has shown that there are two separate clades of Pereskia species, which are basal and paraphyletic with respect to the rest of the cacti. We selected seven Pereskia species, representing both clades, and characterized their water relations by measuring a suite of physiological traits in wild populations. Additionally, we estimated basic climate parameters from collection localities for all 17 Pereskia species. Extant Pereskia species exhibit ecological water use patterns that are very similar to those of the leafless, stem‐succulent cacti. Ancestral trait reconstruction for the physiological and environmental data provides a preliminary assessment of the ecology and water relations of the earliest cacti and suggests that several key elements of the cactus ecological niche were established before the evolution of the cactus life‐form. We interpret these ecological traits as potentially important drivers of evolutionary innovation in the cacti.
An EO pump-based novel type of micro fluidic system

This paper proposed an electroosmotic (EO) pump-based novel type of fluidic system. This system consists of one EO pump, one flow sensor, two indirect pumping mechanisms, one fuel cell and two switching valves. By using the indirect pumping mechanisms, the problem of driving fluid circulation has been improved. In order to keep the continuous working, we proposed the mechanism using one fuel cell to solve the problem of gasses generated by the EO pump. The characteristic evaluations have been carried out. The experimental results illustrated that the proposed system can get outlet until 25µl/min under the back pressure of 25kPa.
Comparison of three implementations of HeadTurn: a multimodal interaction technique with gaze and head turns

The best way to construct user interfaces for smart glasses is not yet known. We investigated the use of eye tracking in this context in two experiments. The eye and head movements were combined so that one can select the object to interact by looking at it and then change a setting in that object by turning the head horizontally. We compared three different techniques for mapping the head turn to scrolling a list of numbers with and without haptic feedback. We found that the haptic feedback had no noticeable effect in objective metrics, but it sometimes improved user experience. Direct mapping of head orientation to list position is fast and easy to understand, but the signal-to-noise ratio of eye and head position measurement limits the possible range. The technique with constant rate of change after crossing the head angle threshold was simple and functional, but slow when the rate of change is adjusted to suit beginners. Finally the rate of change dependent on the head angle tends to lead to fairly long task completion times, although in theory it offers a good combination of speed and accuracy.
Multichannel Reflective PPG Earpiece Sensor With Passive Motion Cancellation

This paper addresses the design considerations of a novel earpiece photoplethymograph (PPG) sensor and its in-situ evaluation results. The device is encapsulated with multiple LEDs and photodiodes based on a reflective PPG design. A compact and low power circuitry was developed for signal control and conditioning. PPG signals with an averaged ac/dc ratio of 0.001-0.01 and 10% relative strength (compared to finger-based approach) were recorded from the superior and posterior auricular skins. The integrity of PPG signal and accuracy of heart rate detection were evaluated and the results showed that with adequate optical shielding and the proposed passive motion cancellation, the device was able to reliably detect heart rate both during rest and moderate exercise. The proposed sensor design is low power, easy to wear compared to conventional earlobe PPG devices.
An improved method for LSB based color image steganography combined with cryptography

In this paper, an improved LSB information hiding algorithm of color image using secret key is be proposed, combining information hiding and cryptography, increasing the human eye visual features, and the identity authentication based on digital signature and encryption technology to improve the security of information hiding. Finally through the experiment and the comparison of the peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and safety, the improved LSB image steganography algorithm using the encryption technology is better than general LSB image steganographic method with better security and higher PSNR.
A Centralized, Tree-Based Approach to Network Repair Service for Multicast Streaming Media

IP multicast provides best-effort delivery. Packets encounter variable delays and may be lost because of transmission errors and buffer overflows. Real-time multimedia streaming services require that most packets arrive at the receivers prior to an application deadline. Multicast quality on the current Internet is often inadequate for these applications. We have solved this problem by placing repair servers inside the network. The repair servers recover missing packets by communicating with each other, then re-multicast the repaired stream to nearby receivers on a new address. Multicast reception in the constrained area is typically much better than in the wide area Internet. In this paper we address the problem of constructing a repair graph. The repair graph shows which repair servers each repair server communicates with to recover missing messages. Our objectives when constructing this graph conflict with each other. We want high reliability: every repair server to recover as many missing messages as possible, as quickly as possible. But we also want low cost: this recovery should use as little of the network bandwidth as possible. We present a centralized algorithm to generate repair graphs. We demonstrate through simulation that these graphs achieve a level of reliability that is almost as high as that achieved by repair graphs specifically designed for high reliability. At the same time, our graphs maintain a cost that is almost as low as the cost in repair graphs designed for
A parallelizable sampling method for parameter inference of large biochemical reaction models

The development of mechanistic models of biological systems is a central part of Systems Biology. One major task in developing these models is the inference of the correct model parameters. Due to the size of most realistic models and their possibly complex dynamical behaviour one must usually rely on sample based methods. In this paper we present a novel algorithm that reliably estimates model parameters for deterministic as well as stochastic models from trajectory data. Our algorithm samples iteratively independent particles from the level sets of the likelihood and recovers the posterior from these level sets. The presented approach is easily parallelizable and, by utilizing density estimation through Dirichlet Process Gaussian Mixture Models, can deal with high dimensional parameter spaces. We illustrate that our algorithm is applicable to large, realistic deterministic and stochastic models and succeeds in inferring the correct posterior from a given number of observed trajectories. This algorithm presents a novel, computationally feasible approach to identify parameters of large biochemical reaction models based on sample path data.
A High-Energy Neutron Flux Spectra Measurement Method for the Spallation Neutron Source

The goal of this work was to develop a foil activation method to measure high-energy (1–120 MeV) neutron flux spectra at the Spallation Neutron Source by researching the scientific literature, assembling an experimental apparatus, performing experiments, analyzing the results, and refining the technique based on experience. The primary motivation for this work is to provide a benchmark for the neutron source term used in target station and shielding simulations Two sets of foil irradiations were performed, one at the ARCS beamline and one at the POWGEN beamline. The gamma radiation of the foil activation products was measured with a high purity germanium gamma-ray spectrometer, and the product reaction rates during irradiation were quantified. Corrections, such as self-shielding factors, were applied to the measurements to account for particular effects. The corrected measurement data, along with calculated response functions and an initial guess spectrum, were input to the MAXED neutron spectrum unfolding computer code. MAXED uses the maximum entropy method to unfold an output spectrum that is the minimally modified guess spectrum consistent with the measurement data. The foil irradiation and subsequent analysis from the ARCS spectrum produced a reasonable neutron spectrum, which noticeably differed from the initial guess spectrum. This measurement is regarded as consistent, but yet unverified. The gamma-ray spectrum of the foil irradiation at the POWGEN beamline showed no high-energy activation. This is regarded as an experimental error, and no conclusions can be drawn about the high-energy neutron spectrum. Future foil irradiations are planned to verify and expand the neutron spectrum measurements.
Mining Attribute-structure Correlated Patterns in Large Attributed Graphs

In this work, we study the correlation between attribute sets and the occurrence of dense subgraphs in large attributed graphs, a task we call structural correlation pattern mining. A structural correlation pattern is a dense subgraph induced by a particular attribute set. Existing methods are not able to extract relevant knowledge regarding how vertex attributes interact with dense subgraphs. Structural correlation pattern mining combines aspects of frequent itemset and quasi-clique mining problems. We propose statistical significance measures that compare the structural correlation of attribute sets against their expected values using null models. Moreover, we evaluate the interestingness of structural correlation patterns in terms of size and density. An efficient algorithm that combines search and pruning strategies in the identification of the most relevant structural correlation patterns is presented. We apply our method for the analysis of three real-world attributed graphs: a collaboration, a music, and a citation network, verifying that it provides valuable knowledge in a feasible time.
Phagocytosis of Apoptotic Cells Increases the Susceptibility of Macrophages to Infection with Coxiella burnetii Phase II through Down-Modulation of Nitric Oxide Production

ABSTRACT Coxiella burnetii, the agent of Q fever in humans and coxiellosis in other mammals, is an obligate intracellular bacterium which is sheltered and multiplies within typically large phagolysosome-like replicative vacuoles (LRVs). We have previously shown that, compared with fibroblasts, mouse resident peritoneal macrophages control the development of LRVs and bacterial multiplication within these vacuoles. Earlier experiments with the nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor aminoguanidine (AG) revealed that the control is exerted by NO induced by the bacteria. We report here that phagocytosis of apoptotic-like, but not of aldehyde-killed, lymphocytes by the macrophages reduced the production of NO induced by the bacteria and increased the development of LRVs and, therefore, the total bacterial load in the cultures. Experiments with macrophages from mice deficient for inducible NO synthase (iNOS−/−) confirmed the involvement of NO in the control of infection, since neither apoptotic lymphocytes nor AG affected the development of LRVs in these phagocytes. Since macrophages are important for the clearance of apoptotic bodies and C. burnetii is able to induce apoptosis in human monocytes, the phenomenon shown here may be biologically relevant to the development of Q fever and coxiellosis.
Fast protector against EMP using electrical field induced resistance change in La/sub 0.67/Ca/sub 0.33/MnO/sub 3/ thin films

La/sub 0.67/Ca/sub 0.33/MnO/sub 3/ thin films were investigated using nanosecond duration electrical pulses. It was found that strong (up to 30 kV/cm) electric fields significantly reduces the resistance of the film and shifts the peak in resistance vs. temperature dependence to higher temperatures. The results are discussed using a model based on fast spin and charge system response to electric field action on the magnetic material. It was concluded that electric field induced changes in the La/sub 0.67/Ca/sub 0.33/MnO/sub 3/ thin film's resistance can be used to protect fast 50 ohm impedance high frequency transmission lines against short rise time fault current pulses.
Institute of Perception, Action and Behaviour Could Active Perception Aid Navigation of Partially Observable Grid Worlds? Could Active Perception Aid Navigation of Partially Observable Grid Worlds? Could Active Perception Aid Navigation of Partially Observable Grid Worlds?

Due to the unavoidable fact that a robot's sensors will be limited in some manner, it is entirely possible that it can find itself unable to distinguish between differing states of the world (the world is in effect partially observable). If reinforcement learning is used to train the robot, then this confounding of states can have a serious effect on its ability to learn optimal and stable policies. Good results have been achieved by enhancing reinforcement learning algorithms through the addition of memory or the use of internal models. In our work we take a different approach and consider whether active perception could be used instead. We test this using omniscient oracles, who play the role of a robot's active perceptual system, in a simple grid world navigation problem. Our results indicate that simple reinforcement learning algorithms can learn when to consult these oracles, and as a result learn optimal policies. The authors and the University of Edinburgh retain the right to reproduce and publish this paper for non-commercial purposes. Permission is granted for this report to be reproduced by others for non-commercial purposes as long as this copyright notice is reprinted in full in any reproduction. Applications to make other use of the material should be addressed in the first instance to Copyright Permissions, Abstract. Due to the unavoidable fact that a robot's sensors will be limited in some manner, it is entirely possible that it can find itself unable to distinguish between differing states of the world (the world is in effect partially observable). If reinforcement learning is used to train the robot, then this confounding of states can have a serious effect on its ability to learn optimal and stable policies. Good results have been achieved by enhancing reinforcement learning algorithms through the addition of memory or the use of internal models. In our work we take a different approach and consider whether active perception could be used instead. We test this using omniscient oracles, who play the role of a robot's active perceptual system, in a simple grid world navigation problem. Our results indicate that simple reinforcement learning algorithms can learn when to consult these oracles, and as a result learn optimal policies.
Community of Reference in Rural Stratification Research

Author(s): Cancian, F | Abstract: Local social systems are connected to larger systems, including the world-system, in a variety of complex ways; thus it is often difficult to identify the local stratification system or community of reference. Yet system specification is crucial in stratification studies, because the phenomena studied are often best understood in terms of relative position within the local system. Support for this is found through review of the theory of UMc conservatism advanced by Frank Cancian (The Innovator's Situation: Upper-Middle-Class Conservatism in Agricultural Communities, Stanford, Calif: Stanford U Press, 1979) a of the replication of this research by R. Scott Frey, David M. Freeman, a Max K. Lowdermilk, which yielded a finding of LMc conservatism in adoption of agricultural innovations. Reanalysis of the data from the latter study shows that the finding changes when the specification of the local system changes. Thus, the system specification problem faced by empirical researchers dealing with Ru stratification is highlighted. In Stratification and Risk-Taking in Pakistan: A Response to Cancian, R. Scott Frey a David M. Freeman (George Washington U, Washington, DC) find the concept of community of reference to be operationally ambiguous. Cancian's reanalysis of the data from Pakistan is misleading a leads to invalid conclusions; further, the anomaly does not vanish when rank is defined in a new way, but simply takes a new form. Cancian's explanation of the anomaly remains questionable. 3 Tables, 6 Figures, Appendix. Modified HA.
Initiation of Channel Head Bifurcation by Overland Flow

Channel head bifurcation is a key factor for generating complexity of channel networks. Here we investigate incipient channel head bifurcation using linear stability analysis. Channel heads are simplified as circular hollows, toward which surface sheet flow accelerates in the radial direction. Sinusoidal perturbations in the angular direction with different angular wave numbers k are imposed on the bed, and their growth rates Ω~ are computed. Because the channel head radius R~c is extending over time, the base state (circular hollow in the absence of perturbations) also evolves continuously. With the use of the momentary stability concept, the evolving base state is defined as momentarily unstable to the imposed perturbation if the disturbance is growing faster than the evolution of the base state. It was found that in the range of sufficiently small R~c , bifurcation cannot be initiated. As R~c increases, bifurcation starts to be possible with k≈ 3–5. A higher k implies bifurcation with a narrower channel junction angle (θ = 2π/k). The average junction angle of the Colorado High Plains for the smallest drainage area is about 85° with a standard deviation of 35° (Sólyom and Tucker, 2007). Our predicted angles (75°–120°) agree qualitatively with the observed angles. Finally, we propose a simple criterion to compute the threshold R~c for the onset of bifurcation.
Integration of traffic and travel data exchange in command and control platform

Situation awareness regarding transport system performances, status and condition is key purpose of ITSs (Intelligent Transport Systems). Transport related data is being collected, aggregated and processed by ICT systems of various stakeholders within the transport system. Traffic related data is being exchanged between systems using Datex II standard. Paper describes development of a plugin for gathering and processing traffic related data stream, data visualization through ResQMap GIS system and integrated with C&C (Command and Control) system - CoordCom. Final result is ecosystem where appropriate actions could be launched if triggered by event from traffic related data stream.
The Pattern, Direction and Factors Responsible for Urban Growth in a Developing African City: A Case Study of Ogbomoso

Abstract The study focuses on the pattern, direction as well as factors responsible for urban growth in a developing African city. It identifies the pattern and direction of growth in the study area as well as factors responsible for the observed trend of growth. The study adopts the use of structured and well-designed questionnaire. The questionnaires were administered to cover the core, (high density) intermediate (medium density) and low-density area. Then questionnaire were administered to residents in every 5th building along eight major roads that take off from the city centre. It also covers surrounding villages that fall within 10km radius, from the city center. A total of 708 questionnaires were administered based on 20% of the overall buildings counted on both sides of the major roads considered. Data were also obtained from vegetation and land use map of Nigeria on a scale 1:250,000. These maps are imageries taken in space for 1978 and 1995.Maps of Ogbomoso for both 1914 and 1949 were obtained and digitized using Arc view3.2 to determine the pattern and direction of the city growth. The findings reveal that the pattern and direction of growth is in all directions but more concentrated in the Northern direction along the Ogbomoso-Ilorin road axis. The major factors responsible for the growth of the city as indicated by the respondents are urbanization (83.4%) education development (96.9%) and transportation (97.5%). In conclusion, Government should make effort in conjunction with planning agencies to put in place a functional master plan while incentives such as site and services should be provided to facilitate orderly development of the city.
Shortest Cocycle Bases of Graphs

In this paper we investigate the structure of the shortest co-cycle base(or SCB in short) of connected graphs, which are related with map geometries, i.e., Smarandache 2dimensional manifolds. By using a Hall type theorem for base transformation, we show that the shortest co-cycle bases have the same structure (there is a 1-1 correspondence between two shortest co-cycle bases such that the corresponding elements have the same length). As an application in surface topology, we show that in an embedded graph on a surface any nonseparating cycle can’t be generated by separating cycles. Based on this result, we show that in a 2-connected graph embedded in a surface, there is a set of surface nonseparating cycles which can span the cycle space. In particular, there is a shortest base consisting surface nonseparating cycle and all such bases have the same structure. This extends a Tutte’s result [4].
Histone variants: dynamic punctuation in transcription

Eukaryotic gene regulation involves a balance between packaging of the genome into nucleosomes and enabling access to regulatory proteins and RNA polymerase. Nucleosomes, consisting of DNA wrapped around a core of histone proteins, are integral components of gene regulation that restrict access to both regulatory sequences and the underlying template. In this review, Weber and Henikoff consider how histone variants and their interacting partners are involved in transcriptional regulation through the creation of unique chromatin states.
Therapeutic Inhibition of miR-208a Improves Cardiac Function and Survival During Heart Failure

Background— Diastolic dysfunction in response to hypertrophy is a major clinical syndrome with few therapeutic options. MicroRNAs act as negative regulators of gene expression by inhibiting translation or promoting degradation of target mRNAs. Previously, we reported that genetic deletion of the cardiac-specific miR-208a prevents pathological cardiac remodeling and upregulation of Myh7 in response to pressure overload. Whether this miRNA might contribute to diastolic dysfunction or other forms of heart disease is currently unknown. Methods and Results— Here, we show that systemic delivery of an antisense oligonucleotide induces potent and sustained silencing of miR-208a in the heart. Therapeutic inhibition of miR-208a by subcutaneous delivery of antimiR-208a during hypertension-induced heart failure in Dahl hypertensive rats dose-dependently prevents pathological myosin switching and cardiac remodeling while improving cardiac function, overall health, and survival. Transcriptional profiling indicates that antimiR-208a evokes prominent effects on cardiac gene expression; plasma analysis indicates significant changes in circulating levels of miRNAs on antimiR-208a treatment. Conclusions— These studies indicate the potential of oligonucleotide-based therapies for modulating cardiac miRNAs and validate miR-208 as a potent therapeutic target for the modulation of cardiac function and remodeling during heart disease progression.