Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
3D human body model acquisition from multiple views

We present a novel motion-based approach for the part determination and shape estimation of a human's body parts. The novelty of the technique is that neither a prior model of the human body is employed nor prior body part segmentation is assumed. We present a human body part identification strategy (HBPIS) that recovers all the body parts of a moving human based on the spatiotemporal analysis of its deforming silhouette. We formalize the process of simultaneous part determination and 2D shape estimation by employing the supervisory control theory of discrete event systems. In addition, in order to acquire the 3D shape of the body parts, we present a new algorithm which selectively integrates the (segmented by the HBPIS) apparent contours, from three mutually orthogonal views. The effectiveness of the approach is demonstrated through a series of experiments, where a subject performs a set of movements according to a protocol that reveals the structure of the human body. <<ETX>>
THE ROLE OF EDGE INFORMATION TO ESTIMATE THE PERCEIVED UTILITY OF NATURAL IMAGES

In the quality assessment task, observers evaluate a natura l image based on its perceptual resemblance to a reference. For the u tility assessment task, observers evaluate the usefulness of a nat ur l image as a surrogate for a reference. Humans are willing to use t he information captured by an imaging system and tolerate dist ort ons as long as the underlying task is performed reliably. Conven tional notions of perceived quality cannot generally predict the p erceived utility of a natural image. Many estimators have been design ed to estimate perceived quality scores, and a recent estimator, refe red to as the natural image contour evaluation (NICE), has been dev eloped to estimate perceived utility scores. An analysis of edge in formation in natural images drives object recognition mechanisms in t he human visual system, so this paper examines the role of an edgebased analysis in both popular objective quality estimators and N ICE for estimating the perceived quality or utility of distorted na tur l images. Among the estimators evaluated, results show that est imators that emphasize an edge-based analysis provide the most accu rate estimates of perceived utility scores. Estimators that aug ment the edge-based analysis with an energy-based analysis provide the most accurate estimates of perceived quality scores.
Development Of A Smartphone Overuse Classification Scale

Abstract Background: Smartphone overuse has become prevalent worldwide. The aim of this study is to develop a self-administered scale, the Smartphone Overuse Classification Scale (SOCS) that can be used to screen for different types of smartphone overuse. Methods: The SOCS consists of three subscales: social network app overuse (S-scale), recreational app overuse (R-scale), and information overload (I-scale). A total of 849 participants were recruited to complete questionnaires, including the SOCS, Young’s Diagnosis Questionnaire (Young’s DQ) and a demographic data form. Results: Three factors (cognitive disorder, behavioral disorder, and mood disorder) were extracted from each subscale of the SOCS, and these explained over 60% of the variance of each subscale. The Cronbach’s alpha was 0.849 for the SOCS and 0.813, 0.726, and 0.706 for the S-scale, R-scale and I-scale, respectively. Intra-class correlations for the SOCS and its subscales ranged from 0.768 to 0.879. The SOCS and its subscales were moderately or highly correlated with Young’s DQ. Conclusions: The SOCS may provide a basis for developing specific intervention schemes for different types of smartphone overuse.
A model for astral stimulation of cytokinesis in animal cells

A model is proposed in which stimulation of cortical cytoplasm occurs near the distal ends of astral rays. Levels of stimulation sufficient to cause furrowing occur only in equatorial zones between asters. The model can account for positioning of furrows in very large cells (fertilized eggs of amphibians, birds, and fish) and in cells with several mitotic apparatuses (insects). Finally, the model correctly predicts the positioning and occurrence of furrowing in two experiments in which cellular shape was manipulated into either an hourglass or a cylindrical form before division. These results are consistent with equatorial stimulation theories in which mitotic asters differentially stimulate the future furrow region (equatorial cortex). The results are not consistent with models requiring differential stimulation of nonfurrowing, polar regions of the cell.
Using Stellar Limb-Darkening to Refine the Properties of HD 209458b

We use multiband photometry to refine estimates for the planetary radius and orbital inclination of the transiting planet system HD 209458. We gathered 1066 spectra over four distinct transits with the STIS spectrometer on the Hubble Space Telescope using two gratings with a resolution R = 1500 and a combined wavelength range of 290-1030 nm. We divide the spectra into 10 spectrophotometric bandpasses, five for each grating, of equal wavelength span within each grating, and fit a transit curve over all bandpasses simultaneously. In our fit we use theoretical values for the stellar limb-darkening to further constrain the planetary radius. We find that the radius of HD 209458b is (1.320 ± 0.025)RJup, which is a factor of 2 more precise than current estimates. We also obtain improved estimates for the orbital period P and time of center of transit TC. Although in principle the photon-limited precision of the STIS data should allow us to measure the timing of individual transits to a precision of 2-7 s, we find that uncertainties in the stellar limb-darkening coefficients and residual noise in the data degrade these measurements to a typical precision of ±14 s. Within this level of error, we find no significant variations in the timing of the eight events examined in this work.
Non-Invasive Optical Imaging of Eosinophilia during the Course of an Experimental Allergic Airways Disease Model and in Response to Therapy

Background Molecular imaging of lung diseases, including asthma, is limited and either invasive or non-specific. Central to the inflammatory process in asthma is the recruitment of eosinophils to the airways, which release proteases and proinflammatory factors and contribute to airway remodeling. The aim of this study was to establish a new approach to non-invasively assess lung eosinophilia during the course of experimental asthma by combining non-invasive near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging with the specific detection of Siglec-F, a lectin found predominantly on eosinophils. Methodology/Principal Findings An ovalbumin (OVA)-based model was used to induce asthma-like experimental allergic airway disease (EAAD) in BALB/c mice. By means of a NIRF imager, we demonstrate that 48 h–72 h after intravenous (i.v.) application of a NIRF-labeled anti-Siglec-F antibody, mice with EAAD exhibited up to 2 times higher fluorescence intensities compared to lungs of control mice. Furthermore, average lung intensities of dexamethasone-treated as well as beta-escin-treated mice were 1.8 and 2 times lower than those of untreated, EAAD mice, respectively and correlated with the reduction of cell infiltration in the lung. Average fluorescence intensities measured in explanted lungs confirmed the in vivo findings of significantly higher values in inflamed lungs as compared to controls. Fluorescence microscopy of lung cryosections localized the i.v. applied NIRF-labeled anti-Siglec-F antibody predominantly to eosinophils in the peribronchial areas of EAAD lungs as opposed to control lungs. Conclusion/Significance We show that monitoring the occurrence of eosinophils, a prominent feature of allergic asthma, by means of a NIRF-labeled antibody directed against Siglec-F is a novel and powerful non-invasive optical imaging approach to assess EAAD and therapeutic response in mice over time.
Temporal Variability of Human Vaginal Bacteria and Relationship with Bacterial Vaginosis

Background Little is known about short-term bacterial fluctuations in the human vagina. This study used PCR to assess the variability in concentrations of key vaginal bacteria in healthy women and the immediate response to antibiotic treatment in women with bacterial vaginosis (BV). Methodology/Principal Findings Twenty-two women assessed for BV using Amsel's criteria were evaluated daily for 7 or 14 days, then at 2, 3 and 4 weeks, using a panel of 11 bacterium-specific quantitative PCR assays. Participants with BV were treated with 5 days of intravaginal metronidazole. Participants without BV had vaginal biotas dominated by lactobacilli, whose levels fluctuated with menses. With onset of menstruation, quantities of Lactobacillus jensenii and Lactobacillus crispatus decreased and were found to be inversely related to Gardnerella vaginalis concentrations (p<0.001). Women with BV had a variety of fastidious bacteria whose concentrations dropped below detection thresholds 1–5 days after starting metronidazole. Recurrent BV was characterized by initial profound decreases of BV-associated bacteria after treatment followed by subsequent increases at relapse. Conclusions/Significance The microbiota of the human vagina can be highly dynamic. Healthy women are colonized with Lactobacillus species, but levels can change dramatically over a month. Marked increases in G. vaginalis were observed during menses. Participants with BV have diverse communities of fastidious bacteria that are depleted by vaginal metronidazole therapy. Women with recurrent BV initially respond to antibiotic treatment with steep declines in bacterial concentrations, but these bacteria later reemerge, suggesting that antibiotic resistance in these bacteria is not an important factor mediating BV recurrence.
Art as Relational Encounter: An Ostensive Communication Theory of Art Therapy

Abstract Biopsychosocial theory is strengthening psychotherapy by focusing on interactions that engage the attachment system. Art therapy has the potential to align coherently with current theory provided it addresses the value of art in engaging with the attachment system. This article describes an interpersonal theory of art therapy based on a model of ostensive communication that supports the attachment system as a mechanism of change in the art therapy triangular relationship of client, therapist, and art object. A clinical case vignette, derived from a client's description of her art therapy experiences in an audio-image interview, illustrates ostensive communication theory and the development of epistemic trust in art therapy.
International Conference on Engineering Education Implementing a Web-based E-learning Environment for Electrical and Computer Engineers Authors

 In this paper, we study the e-learning process from the learner's point of view. In particular, we have investigated and studied technologies, methods and tools of e-learning applications. Based on this research, we have designed and implemented a system that gives users the opportunity to be educated from distance-with channel of communication the Internet-in various academic subjects. The specific case study concerns the lesson " CMOS VLSI Design " of the Postgraduate Program " Integrated Software and Hardware Systems – ISHS " of the University of Patras in Greece. It is an integrated e-learning system that provides users with a wide range of advanced services and accomplishes to offer a distributed learning environment that simulates the operation of traditional class teaching electronically. The paper presents in detail the e-learning model in which the system development was based on, the offered functionalities, as well as the evaluation methodology adopted for testing the system. The last section comprises conclusions and future plans. Index Terms  e-learning, web-based environment.
Identification of Markers that Distinguish Monocyte-Derived Fibrocytes from Monocytes, Macrophages, and Fibroblasts

Background The processes that drive fibrotic diseases are complex and include an influx of peripheral blood monocytes that can differentiate into fibroblast-like cells called fibrocytes. Monocytes can also differentiate into other cell types, such as tissue macrophages. The ability to discriminate between monocytes, macrophages, fibrocytes, and fibroblasts in fibrotic lesions could be beneficial in identifying therapies that target either stromal fibroblasts or fibrocytes. Methodology/Principal Findings We have identified markers that discriminate between human peripheral blood monocytes, tissue macrophages, fibrocytes, and fibroblasts. Amongst these four cell types, only peripheral blood monocytes express the combination of CD45RO, CD93, and S100A8/A9; only macrophages express the combination of CD45RO, 25F9, S100A8/A9, and PM-2K; only fibrocytes express the combination of CD45RO, 25F9, and S100A8/A9, but not PM-2K; and only fibroblasts express the combination of CD90, cellular fibronectin, hyaluronan, and TE-7. These markers are effective both in vitro and in sections from human lung. We found that markers such as CD34, CD68, and collagen do not effectively discriminate between the four cell types. In addition, IL-4, IL-12, IL-13, IFN-γ, and SAP differentially regulate the expression of CD32, CD163, CD172a, and CD206 on both macrophages and fibrocytes. Finally, CD49c (α3 integrin) expression identifies a subset of fibrocytes, and this subset increases with time in culture. Conclusions/Significance These results suggest that discrimination of monocytes, macrophages, fibrocytes, and fibroblasts in fibrotic lesions is possible, and this may allow for an assessment of fibrocytes in fibrotic diseases.
Inventory Control for Stochastic Reverse Logistics with Product's Life Cycle

This paper investigates inventory control policies in a manufacturing/remanufacturing system during the product life-cycle, which consists of four phases: introduction, growth, maturity, and decline stages. Both demand rate and return rate of products are random variables with normal distribution, and the mean of the distribution also varies according to the time in the product life-cycle. Closed-form formulas of optimal production lot size, reorder point, and safety stock in each phase of product life-cycle are derived. A numerical example is presented. The result shows that different inventory control policies should be adopted in different phases of product life-cycle.
Attention to Spoken Word Planning: Chronometric and Neuroimaging Evidence

This article reviews chronometric and neuroimaging evidence on attention to spoken word planning, using the WEAVER++ model as theoretical framework. First, chronometric studies on the time to initiate vocal responding and gaze shifting suggest that spoken word planning may require some attention, even though it is one of our most highly practiced psychomotor skills. Second, neuroimaging studies that localized brain activity during word planning suggest that attention enhances activity in perisylvian cortical areas. What word to enhance and for how long is determined by an executive control system located in anterior cingulate and lateral prefrontal cortex. Commonalities of anterior cingulate function across verbal vocalizations (speech) and nonverbal vocalizations (e.g. human crying, laughter, and monkey calls) are outlined.
An Electrothermal Model for AlGaN/GaN Power HEMTs Including Trapping Effects to Improve Large-Signal Simulation Results on High VSWR

A large-signal electrothermal model for AlGaN/GaN HEMTs including gate and drain related trapping effects is proposed here. This nonlinear model is well formulated to preserve convergence capabilities and simulation times. Extensive measurements have demonstrated the impact of trapping effects on the shapes of I(V) characteristics, as well as load cycles. It is shown that accurate modeling of gate-and drain-lag effects dramatically improves the large-signal simulation results. This is particularly true when the output loads deviate from the optimum matching conditions corresponding to real-world simulations. This new model and its modeling approach are presented here. Large-signal simulation results are then reported and compared to load-pull and large-signal network analyzer measurements for several load impedances at high voltage standing wave ratio and at two frequencies.
Experimental Realization of Hyper‐Entangled Two‐Photon States

We report on the experimental realization of hyper‐entangled two photon states, entangled both in polarization and momentum. These states are produced by a high brilliance parametric source of entangled photon pairs with peculiar characteristics of flexibilty of state generation. The entanglement in the two degrees of freedom has been tested by Hong‐Ou‐Mandel interferometry.
9 Using Microsoft Access to PerformExact Record Linkages

The author describes how using Microsoft Access to perform record linkage may be a viable alternative to specially designed record linkage software for certain applications. Access was pursued since it is fairly easy to use, flexible, interactive, and reasonably fast when performing simple queries. The major drawbacks and minor difficulties will also be discussed. Examples will be drawn from a project which involved linking court records to police records for selected Canadian cities. A description of the project to link the data from the court and police surveys will be given. The motivation for beginning the linkage and the long term goals will be discussed. The history of the project will be briefly reviewed. The author will then focus on Access, and how it is considered to be an effective alternative to methods previously used for this project. The advantages and disadvantages will be presented. The strengths of Access include: flexibility -the criteria which must be met for the records to be considered matches are fully controlled and easily altered by the user, plus it is simple to select subsets of large files which can then be easily explored; availability -Access, being part of Microsoft Office Suite, is available to many users; speed -for our application the queries took very little time to run, making the session highly interactive; ease of use -Access is easy to learn, and even fairly complicated queries can be done with only "point and click" actions with no knowledge of how to program in SQL required. The primary disadvantage is that there is no probabilistic matching based on the theory of Fellegi and Sunter (1969). This is a significant drawback; however, for many applications, exact matching is enough to meet the project's goals. Lastly, some results of linking court and police records using Access will be presented.
Computing the independence number of intersection graphs

Computing the maximum number of disjoint elements in a collection <i>C</i> of geometric objects is a classical problem in computational geometry with applications ranging from frequency assignment in cellular networks to map labeling in computational cartography. The problem is equivalent to finding the independence number, <i>α</i>(<i>G</i><sub><i>C</i></sub>), of the intersection graph <i>G</i><sub><i>C</i></sub> of <i>C</i>, obtained by connecting two elements of <i>C</i> with an edge if and only if their intersection is nonempty. This is known to be an NP-hard task even for systems of segments in the plane with at most two different slopes. The best known polynomial time approximation algorithm for systems of arbitrary segments is due to Agarwal and Mustafa, and returns in the worst case an <i>n</i><sup>1/2+<i>o</i>(1)</sup>-approximation for <i>α</i>. Using extensions of the Lipton-Tarjan separator theorem, we improve this result and present, for every ε > 0, a polynomial time algorithm for computing α(<i>G</i><sub><i>C</i></sub>) with approximation ratio at most <i>n</i><sup>ε</sup>. In contrast, for general graphs, for any ε > 0 it is NP-hard to approximate the independence number within a factor of <i>n</i><sup>1−ε</sup>. We also give a subexponential time exact algorithm for computing the independence number of intersection graphs of arcwise connected sets in the plane.
XFS: The Big Storage File System for Linux

XFS is a file system that was designed from day one computer systems with large numbers of CPUs and large disk arrays. It focuses on supporting large files and good streaming I/O performance. It also have some interesting administrative features not supported by other Linux file systems. This article gives some background information on why XFS was created and how it differs from the fmiliar Linux systems. You may discover that XFS is just what your project needs instead of making do with the default Linux file system,
Simulated PGA Shaking Maps for the Magnitude 6 . 8 Lake Tanganyika earthquake of December 5 , 2005 and the observed damages across South Western Tanzania

The South Western Tanzania (SWTZ) is found within the Western branch of the East African Rift Valley (EAR) system, one of the most seismically active regions in African continent (Mavonga, 2010, 2007). The SWTZ area was strongly shaken by the magnitude 6.8 earthquakes that occurred on December 5, 2005, along Lake Tanganyika, living communities dwelling close to the earthquake epicenter in fears (USGS, 2005). No seismic sensors were close enough to provide instrumental recordings of the event, but few citizens who experienced the strong ground shaking provided eyewitness report via online questionnaire system (Did You feel it? ) operated by the US Geological Survey (USGS) for global earthquake predictive shaking maps. The USGS predictive ground shaking maps can take minutes to days to generate depending on the availability of internet in the earthquake affected areas. The main objective of this study is to demonstrate how simulated earthquake peak ground acceleration (PGA)shaking maps can be used to rapidly assess the impact of the earthquake for faster deployment of emergency responses when earthquake magnitude and epicenter location are available. We simulate the magnitude 6.8 earthquake of December 5, 2005 and measure the initial P-wave information for estimation of earthquake source parameters (event location and magnitude). Then, we apply the estimated earthquake magnitude and epicenter location to the SWTZ PGA ground attenuation relationship in order to predict the eminent S-wave PGA values expected from the earthquake across the region and map them as PGA shaking maps. The simulated shaking maps of the magnitude 6.8 earthquake and the damage levels reported at different locations were comparable. Proving that simulated PGA shaking maps can be used for early warning and rapid earthquake impact assessments.
A Domain-Specific Conceptual Query System

This thesis presents the architecture and implementation of a query system resulted from a domain-specific conceptual data modeling and querying methodology. The query system is built for a high level conceptual query language that supports dynamically userdefined domain-specific functions and application-specific functions. It is DBMSindependent and can be translated to SQL and OQL through a normal form. Currently, it has been implemented in neuroscience domain and can be applied to any other domain. INDEX WORDS: Bioinformatics, Database, Conceptual, Domain-Specific, Life Science Data, Normal Form, Query Language, User-Defined Function A DOMAIN-SPECIFIC CONCEPTUAL QUERY SYSTEM