Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Cooperative Vehicular Traffic Monitoring in Realistic Low Penetration Scenarios: The COLOMBO Experience

The relevance of effective and efficient solutions for vehicle traffic surveillance is widely recognized in order to enable advanced strategies for traffic management, e.g., based on dynamically adaptive and decentralized traffic light management. However, most related solutions in the literature, based on the powerful enabler of cooperative vehicular communications, assume the complete penetration rate of connectivity/communication technologies (and willingness to participate in the collaborative surveillance service) over the targeted vehicle population, thus making them not applicable nowadays. The paper originally proposes an innovative solution for cooperative traffic surveillance based on vehicular communications capable of: (i) working with low penetration rates of the proposed technology and (ii) of collecting a large set of monitoring data about vehicle mobility in targeted areas of interest. The paper presents insights and lessons learnt from the design and implementation work of the proposed solution. Moreover, it reports extensive performance evaluation results collected on realistic simulation scenarios based on the usage of iTETRIS with real traces of vehicular traffic of the city of Bologna. The reported results show the capability of our proposal to consistently estimate the real vehicular traffic even with low penetration rates of our solution (only 10%).
Characterization and Quantification of Livestock Odorants using Sorbent Tube Sampling and Thermal Desorption coupled with Multidimensional Gas Chromatography – Mass Spectrometry – Olfactometry ( TD-MDGC-MSO )

Characterization and quantification of livestock odorants is one of the most challenging analytical tasks because odor-causing gases are very reactive, polar and often present at very low concentrations in a complex matrix of less important or irrelevant gases. The objectives of this research is to develop a novel analytical method for characterization of the livestock odorants including their odor character, odor intensity, and hedonic tone and further quantitative analysis of the key odorants responsible for livestock odor emissions. Sorbent tubes packed with Tenax TA were employed for sampling. The automated one-step thermal desorption coupled with multidimensional gas chromatography-mass spectrometry-olfactometry system was developed for simultaneous chemical and odor analysis. Fifteen odorants identified from different livestock species operations are quantified. In addition, odor character, odor intensity and hedonic tone associated with each of the target compounds are also analyzed. The method developed in this research is being used on a multistate, multispecies project focused on quantifying odor and chemical analysis of odor.
Fusion to Human Serum Albumin Extends the Circulatory Half-Life and Duration of Antithrombotic Action of the Kunitz Protease Inhibitor Domain of Protease Nexin 2

Background/Aims: The Kunitz Protease Inhibitor (KPI) domain of protease nexin 2 (PN2) potently inhibits coagulation factor XIa. Recombinant KPI has been shown to inhibit thrombosis in mouse models, but its clearance from the murine circulation remains uncharacterized. The present study explored the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of fusing KPI to human serum albumin (HSA) in fusion protein KPIHSA. Methods: Hexahistidine-tagged KPI (63 amino acids) and KPIHSA (656 amino acids) were expressed in Pichia pastoris yeast and purified by nickel-chelate chromatography. Clearance profiles in mice were determined, as well as the effects of KPI or KPIHSA administration on FeCl3-induced vena cava thrombus size or carotid artery time to occlusion, respectively. Results: Fusion to HSA increased the mean terminal half-life of KPI by 8-fold and eliminated its interaction with the low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein. KPI and KPIHSA similarly reduced thrombus size and occlusion in both venous and arterial thrombosis models when administered at the time of injury, but only KPI was effective when administered one hour before injury. Conclusions: Albumin fusion deflects KPI from rapid in vivo clearance without impairing its antithrombotic properties and widens its potential therapeutic window.
On the application of spectral unmixing for noise reduction

Spectral unmixing aims at decomposing each image element of a hyperspectral scene in signals typically related to pure materials. This paper gives an added value to the results of this process by proposing Unmixing-based Denoising (UBD), a supervised methodology to recover bands characterized by a low Signal-to-Noise Ratio in a hyperspectral scene. In the first step of UBD, an unmixing procedure is carried out using a set of reference spectra which are noise-free, as they are averaged over areas for which ground truth is available. Results are inferred into the pixelwise reconstruction of a given band, expressed as a linear combination of the values of the reference spectra in that band, ignoring the residual vector which is mainly characterized by undesired atmospheric influences and sensor-induced noise. The reconstructed images exhibit both high visual quality and reduced spectral distortions.
Swelling Behavior of Soft and Biological Materials

Injuries or other ailments can cause swelling of tissues in the body, or of ligaments and tendons surrounding the bones. Such inflammation can lead to discomfort, pain, or even serious illness. Knowledge of the biomechanics of soft tissues is essential for correct prognosis and diagnosis. This requires good modeling and simulation of soft skeletal tissues, which cannot be carried out without experimental material characterization. Behavior of organic tissues is quite similar to that of elastomeric materials that swell when immersed in certain fluids. This work investigates the effect of swelling on compression and bulk properties and the polymeric structure of a water-based elastomer. A drastic change in mechanical and structural properties is observed during the initial swelling period. Elastic and shear moduli decrease by nearly 90% within a few days, and then exhibit almost no change. An opposite trend can be observed for Poisson’s ratio; dramatic increase in the beginning, then a near-constant behavior. Variation in bulk modulus is somewhat fluctuating, but the general trend is a decrease due to swelling. After ten days of swelling, value of Poisson’s ratio becomes approximately 0.5. A sharp decrease in the first week of swelling can be observed in chain density, while cross-link average molecular weight shows the opposite trend of an increase with swelling (with minor fluctuations). Results of this study can provide the material input values for modeling and simulation of the behavior of tissues and other soft biological materials. This, in turn, can form a basis for more detailed analytical and computational studies in biomechanics and biomedical engineering.
Regulation of Na-K-ATPase gene expression by hyperoxia in MDCK cells.

Na-K-ATPase plays a central role in a variety of physiological processes, including ion transport and regulation of cell volume. Our previous data showed that hyperoxia increased the expression of Na-K-ATPase α1 and β1 mRNA in lung type II cells. We similarly show that hyperoxia (≥95% O2 for 24-48 h) increased steady-state mRNA levels in both Na-K-ATPase subunits in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells. The mechanism of gene regulation by hyperoxia was assessed. Stability of the Na-K-ATPase mRNA levels of both subunits was unchanged in hyperoxia-exposed MDCK cells. To determine whether gene transcription was augmented by hyperoxia, MDCK cells were transfected with a β1-subunit promoter-reporter construct. Transfection with the wild-type promoter (β1-817) revealed a 1.9 ± 0.2-fold increase in promoter activity. Transfection with 5' deletion constructs identified a 61-base pair (bp) region between -102 and -41 that was necessary for this increase in promoter activity by hyperoxia. Incorporation of this 61-bp region into a minimal promoter (mouse mammary tumor virus) similarly increased promoter activity 2.3-fold in the presence of hyperoxia. This increase in promoter activity was not seen when MDCK cells were incubated with various concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. In summary, hyperoxia increased Na-K-ATPase β1-subunit mRNA steady-state level due to increased transcription in MDCK cells. A region necessary for this hyperoxic effect on β1 transcription is located between base pairs -102 and -41 on the promoter.
Homogeneous nucleation of dislocation loops under stress in perfect crystals

We present an analysis and results on the homogeneous nucleation of a dislocation loop under stress in a perfect crystal. By using a variational boundary integral method in the Peierls-Nabarro framework, we have determined the saddle-point configurations of embryonic dislocation loops and their associated activation energies under stress levels up to the ideal shear strength. The high-energy barriers under the usual levels of applied shear stresses, differing markedly from the ideal shear strength, confirm the widely held view that thermal motion should play no role in such nucleation. The result provides means for more definitive solutions of fundamental problems involving homogeneous nucleation of dislocation loops and has significant implications for models based on the mechanism of nucleation of dislocations from a perfect crystal.
Drying modes of polymer colloids

This chapter reviews the complex step of drying in the latex film formation process. Drying modes have a profound effect on drying rates and on the final properties of films, primarily through their influence on film morphology and the distribution of water-soluble species. Three distinct drying modes (acting separately, successively or together) can be defined, namely homogeneous drying (in which the water concentration remains uniform in the sample throughout the drying process), drying normal to the surface (where a dry layer of increasing thickness develops from the air surface of the latex coating); and lateral drying (where dry areas increase in size in a direction parallel to the substrate). Details are given on the current knowledge and understanding of these drying modes. The last section of the chapter considers the main parameters controlling the drying modes, i.e. thickness and geometric effects, the structure and rheology of the dispersion, particle viscoelasticity, and the overall rate of water loss.
Ultrastrong optical binding of metallic nanoparticles.

We demonstrate nanometer precision manipulation of multiple nanoparticles at room temperature. This is achieved using the optical binding force, which has been assumed to be weak compared to the optical gradient and scattering forces. We show that trapping by the optical binding force can be over 20 times stronger than by the gradient force and leads to ultrastable, rigid configurations of multiple nanoparticles free in solution - a realization of "optical matter. " In addition, we demonstrate a novel trapping scheme where even smaller nanoparticles are trapped between larger "anchor" particles. Optical binding opens the door for the observation of collective phenomena of nanoparticles and the design of new materials and devices made from optical matter.
Human-centered computing: a multimedia perspective

Human-Centered Computing (HCC) is a set of methodologies that apply to any field that uses computers, in any form, in applications in which humans directly interact with devices or systems that use computer technologies. In this paper, we give an overview of HCC from a Multimedia perspective. We describe what we consider to be the three main areas of Human-Centered Multimedia (HCM): media production, analysis, and interaction. In addition, we identify the core characteristics of HCM, describe example applications, and propose a research agenda for HCM.
Point convolutional neural networks by extension operators

This paper presents Point Convolutional Neural Networks (PCNN): a novel framework for applying convolutional neural networks to point clouds. The framework consists of two operators: extension and restriction, mapping point cloud functions to volumetric functions and vise-versa. A point cloud convolution is defined by pull-back of the Euclidean volumetric convolution via an extension-restriction mechanism. The point cloud convolution is computationally efficient, invariant to the order of points in the point cloud, robust to different samplings and varying densities, and translation invariant, that is the same convolution kernel is used at all points. PCNN generalizes image CNNs and allows readily adapting their architectures to the point cloud setting. Evaluation of PCNN on three central point cloud learning benchmarks convincingly outperform competing point cloud learning methods, and the vast majority of methods working with more informative shape representations such as surfaces and/or normals.
Sacral neuromodulation blocks pudendal inhibition of reflex bladder activity in cats: insight into the efficacy of sacral neuromodulation in Fowler's syndrome.

This study tested the hypothesis that sacral neuromodulation, i.e., electrical stimulation of afferent axons in sacral spinal root, can block pudendal afferent inhibition of the micturition reflex. In α-chloralose-anesthetized cats, pudendal nerve stimulation (PNS) at 3-5 Hz was used to inhibit bladder reflex activity while the sacral S1 or S2 dorsal root was stimulated at 15-30 Hz to mimic sacral neuromodulation and to block the bladder inhibition induced by PNS. The intensity threshold (T) for PNS or S1/S2 dorsal root stimulation (DRS) to induce muscle twitch of anal sphincter or toe was determined. PNS at 1.5-2T intensity inhibited the micturition reflex by significantly ( P < 0.01) increasing bladder capacity to 150-170% of control capacity. S1 DRS alone at 1-1.5T intensity did not inhibit bladder activity but completely blocked PNS inhibition and restored bladder capacity to control level. At higher intensity (1.5-2T), S1 DRS alone inhibited the micturition reflex and significantly increased bladder capacity to 135.8 ± 6.6% of control capacity. However, the same higher intensity S1 DRS applied simultaneously with PNS, suppressed PNS inhibition and significantly ( P < 0.01) reduced bladder capacity to 126.8 ± 9.7% of control capacity. S2 DRS at both low (1T) and high (1.5-2T) intensity failed to significantly reduce PNS inhibition. PNS and S1 DRS did not change the amplitude and duration of micturition reflex contractions, but S2 DRS at 1.5-2T intensity doubled the duration of the contractions and increased bladder capacity. These results are important for understanding the mechanisms underlying sacral neuromodulation of nonobstructive urinary retention in Fowler's syndrome.
Amino acid use by the gastrointestinal tract of sheep given lucerne forage.

Essential amino acid (EAA) utilization by gastrointestinal tract (GIT) tissues has been investigated in sheep given 800 and 1,200 g/day lucerne pellets. Animals prepared with indwelling catheters into the aorta and the portal drained viscera plus cannulas into the small intestine were infused with mixed U-13C-labeled amino acid or [1-13C]leucine tracers into the jugular vein or directly into the small intestine. GIT sequestration of EAA from arterial and luminal AA pools was determined from tracer and tracee arterioportal concentration differences at both levels of intake. Proportional tracer13C-labeled EAA extraction of the arterial supply, on first pass across the GIT during jugular infusion, ranged from 0.063 for histidine to 0.126 for leucine. Recovery of intestinally infused tracer13C-EAA at the portal vein ranged from 0.61 for histidine to 0.83 for valine. These data were independent of intake. Calculated rates of tracee sequestration by GIT tissues represented 0.45-0.65 of whole body EAA flux, except for histidine, for which the values were much lower (0.25-0.32). With the exception of phenylalanine, more than 0.8 of the EAA used by the GIT was extracted from circulating blood, thus calling into question the theory that GIT tissues make preferential use of EAA during absorptive metabolism, restricting supply to peripheral tissues such as skeletal muscle (growth) or mammary glands (lactation). Instead the GIT seems to compete very successfully with these tissues for circulating blood EAA.
DESIGN AND EVALUATION OF FLOATING MICROSPHERES OF RABEPRAZOLE SODIUM

In recent years oral dosage form for gastric retention(floating drug delivery systems) have drawn more and more attention for their theoretical advantage in permitting control over time and site of drug release. The aim of the present study was to develop floating microspheres of Rabeprazole sodium(RPS), which belong to class of proton pump inhibitor. Floating microspheres of Rabeprazole were prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation method using HPMC K15M and ethyl cellulose as polymer. Six different formulations were developed. The floating microsphere was evaluated for angle of repose, particle size, percentage yield, in vitro buoyancy, incorporation efficiency, drug polymer compatibility (IR study), scanning electron microscopy, drug release and DSC(Differential Scanning colorimetry), X‐Ray Diffraction(XRD) of microsphere. Results show that as the concentration of polymer increases it affects the particle size, percentage yield, in vitro buoyancy and drug release of microsphere. Formulations prepared with HPMC K15M exhibited excellent Micromeritic properties, percentage yield, in vitro buoyancy, incorporation efficiency and percentage drug release when compared to ethyl cellulose polymer. Results of our present study suggest that floating microsphere of Rabeprazole sodium can be successfully designed to develop controlled drug delivery which can reduce dosing frequency thus this formulation can be considered as an alternative to conventional dosage forms.
Investigation of load imbalance in the hybrid atomistic-continuum simulation based on geometric coupling

The hybrid atomistic-continuum (HAC) simulation based on geometric coupling has intrinsic load imbalance under conventional parallel decomposition method. This paper presents qualitative guiding rules for alleviating load imbalance in the HAC simulation. We reveal the intrinsic load imbalance in the HAC parallel simulation, analyze the coupling procedures involved in the coupling exchange and present two qualitative decomposition rules for the atomistic region decomposition. The results of the benchmark case show the decomposition style under the guiding rules instruction performs much better than the default decomposition method which coupling overhead is only 58% of the default and communication time consuming is 75% of the default.
Targeting Mitochondria to Counteract Age-Related Cellular Dysfunction

Senescence is related to the loss of cellular homeostasis and functions, which leads to a progressive decline in physiological ability and to aging-associated diseases. Since mitochondria are essential to energy supply, cell differentiation, cell cycle control, intracellular signaling and Ca2+ sequestration, fine-tuning mitochondrial activity appropriately, is a tightrope walk during aging. For instance, the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) ensures a supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), but is also the main source of potentially harmful levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Moreover, mitochondrial function is strongly linked to mitochondrial Ca2+ homeostasis and mitochondrial shape, which undergo various alterations during aging. Since mitochondria play such a critical role in an organism’s process of aging, they also offer promising targets for manipulation of senescent cellular functions. Accordingly, interventions delaying the onset of age-associated disorders involve the manipulation of mitochondrial function, including caloric restriction (CR) or exercise, as well as drugs, such as metformin, aspirin, and polyphenols. In this review, we discuss mitochondria’s role in and impact on cellular aging and their potential to serve as a target for therapeutic interventions against age-related cellular dysfunction.
Optimization-Based Controllers for Robotics Applications (OCRA): The Case of iCub’s Whole-Body Control

OCRA stands for Optimization-based Control for Robotics Applications. It consists of a set of platform-independent libraries which facilitates the development of optimization-based controllers for articulated robots. Hierarchical, weighted, and hybrid control strategies can easily be implemented using these tools. The generic interfaces provided by OCRA allow different robots to use the exact same controllers. OCRA also allows users to specify high-level objectives via tasks. These tasks provide an intuitive way of generating complex behaviors and can be specified in XML format. To illustrate the use of OCRA, an implementation of interest to this research topic for the humanoid robot iCub is presented. OCRA stands for Optimization-based Control for Robotics Applications. It consists of a set of platform-independent libraries which facilitates the development of optimization-based controllers for articulated robots. Hierarchical, weighted, and hybrid control strategies can easily be implemented using these tools. The generic interfaces provided by OCRA allow different robots to use the exact same controllers. OCRA also allows users to specify high-level objectives via tasks. These tasks provide an intuitive way of generating complex behaviors and can be specified in XML format. To illustrate the use of OCRA, an implementation of interest to this research topic for the humanoid robot iCub is presented.
Assigning intonation elements and prosodic phrasing for English speech synthesis from high level linguistic input

ENGLISH SPEECH SYNTHESIS FROM HIGH LEVEL LINGUISTIC INPUT Alan W Black1 Paul Taylor2 1 ATR Interpreting Telecommunications Laboratories, 2-2 Hikaridai, Seika-cho, Soraku-gun, Kyoto 619-02, JAPAN. awb@itl.atr. co.jp 2 Human Communication Research Centre, University of Edinburgh, 2 Buccleuch Place, Edinburgh EH8 9LW, UK. pault@cogsci.ed.ac.uk ABSTRACT This paper describes a method for generating intonation events and prosodic phrasing from a high level linguistic description. Speci cally, the input consists of information normally available from linguistic processing: part of speech, constituent structure and, importantly, speech act. The generated output contains explicit intonation events from which an F0 contour may be generated. Prosody can be controlled via features in the input describing the function of words and phrases without direct reference to intonation. The results are evaluated against natural spoken sentences.