Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
EPI-Neighborhood Distribution Based Light Field Depth Estimation

In this paper, a novel depth estimation algorithm tackling foreground occlusion is proposed based on the neighborhood distribution in the sheared epipolar images (EPIs). First, the EPI is sheared to perform refocusing. Next a series of sheared EPI’s neighboring pixels in a local window are selected and the corresponding histogram distributions are analyzed by the proposed novel tensor, Kullback-Leibler Divergence (KLD). Then, depths calculated from vertical and horizontal EPIs’ tensors are fused according to the tensors’ variation scale for a high quality depth map. Finally, confident depth points are propagated to the whole image by global optimization. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm achieves better performance relative to state-of-the-art algorithms.
The migration–tourism nexus in the EU28

This study explores the nexus between tourism and migration on an intra-European scale over the period 2000–2015. Complex-network analysis and gravity models were the investigation methods preferred. For each year under study, we built two country-to-country networks to map and reveal the connections between states as shaped by migration stocks and tourism flows, respectively. Then, the main determinants of the correlation patterns between the two networks were investigated by several econometric analysis. Results point to a quite similar topological structure for the tourism and migration networks as well as to a significant and reciprocal direct influence between tourism and migration movements inside the European Union. No relevant indirect causal relationship is present in the tourism–migration nexus instead.
Robustness of visible near‐infrared and mid‐infrared spectroscopic models to changes in the quantity and quality of crop residues in soil

Funding information Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, Grant/Award Numbers: LU 583/19-1, VO 1509/7-1 Abstract The robustness of soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) content prediction accuracy by visible near-infrared spectroscopy (visNIRS) and mid-infrared spectroscopy (MIRS) models after a change in the quantity or quality of crop residues requires investigation. Arable soils (0–20 cm) from 20 locations across Germany were collected, and 0, 2, 4, or 8 g C kg soil of wheat straw (C/N ratio, 54) or clover (C/N ratio, 13) were added. Before and after a 56-d incubation, dried and ground samples were measured for SOC and TN content and by visNIRS and MIRS. The complete dataset (n = 280) was subdivided into calibration and validation datasets to test the robustness of partial least squares regression models to changes in crop residue quantity and quality in soil. Noise-reducing data pretreatments included region selection, moving averages, resampling every second data point, and the SavitzkyGolay algorithm. The MIRS estimates for SOC (7.4–33 g kg) had lower root mean squared error of validation (RMSEV = 0.9–2.9 g kg ) compared with visNIRS (RMSEV = 1.6–7.1 g kg ). Total N estimates (0.7–2.8 g kg) were more comparable for MIRS (RMSEV = 0.1–0.3 g kg ) and visNIRS (RMSEV = 0.1–1.0 g kg ). Loadings of partial least squares regression components suggested the predictive mechanisms for SOC and TN were more similar for visNIRS than for MIRS. Differing crop residue quantity or quality in calibration versus validation resulted in biased SOC and TN estimates by visNIRS and MIRS models. However, calibration with a global residue model containing all soils and crop residue quantities and qualities lowered RMSEV for SOC and TN prediction with visNIRS and MIRS, demonstrating the usefulness of this approach.
Optimal Shape and First Integrals for Inverted Compressed Column

We study optimal shape of an inverted elastic column with concentrated force at the end and in the gravitational field. We generalize earlier results on this problem in two directions. First we prove a theorem on the bifurcation of nonlinear equilibrium equations for arbitrary cross-section column. Secondly we determine the cross-sectional area for the compressed column in the optimal way. Variational principle is constructed for the equations determining the optimal shape and two new first integrals are constructed that are used to check numerical integration. Next, we apply the Noether’s theorem and determine transformation groups that leave variational principle Gauge invariant. The classical Lagrange problem follows as a special case. Several numerical examples are presented.
Dynamic Interplay between Modes of Regulation During Motivationally Challenging Episodes in Collaboration

The cognitive and social demands of collaboration can raise significant motivation challenges. Task progression relies on team members strategically taking control of the problems and adapting accordingly. Theory indicates that productive collaboration involves groups using three modes of regulation: self-regulation, co-regulation, and socially shared regulation. Despite research demonstrating the occurrence of all three modes in collaboration, it is unclear how these modes interact and how co-regulation supports the emergence of self- and shared-regulation of motivation. The study aimed to examine the role co-regulation played in dynamically stimulating the emergence of self- and shared-regulation of motivation. A cross-case comparison was conducted between two groups who experienced high levels of motivation challenges but achieved contrasting perceptions of the overall team learning productivity. During analysis, groups’ dynamic regulatory processes within the online environment were visually represented using a tool called the Chronologically-ordered Representation for Tool-Related Activity (CORDTRA). Findings demonstrate that co-regulation of motivation may afford and thwart the emergence of self- and shared-regulation, and these processes interacted with the group’s situational challenges and the regulatory skills group members possessed. Comparisons between the two groups indicated that groups' motivation regulation should (a) match the demands of the challenges at hand, (b) be positively supported by group members through co-regulation, and (b) involve a more varied strategic responses so that the group may continue to learn and co-construct knowledge effectively as a team.
Neurons and Networks: An Introduction to Neuroscience

Part 1 Neurons - cellular neuroscience: probing the brain - anatomical approaches - visualizing neurons, physiological approaches - recording electrical activity, molecular biological approaches - mapping molecules cells and synapses - neurons and glia, neuronal structure, synapses membranes and the resting potential - properties of neural potentials, membranes - their structure and electrical properties, resting potentials action potentials and their propagation - the generation of action potentials, the propagation of action potentials synaptic potentials - excitatory and inhibitory synapses, the Axon Hillock and the generation of action potentials, analyzing synaptic potentials, the neuromuscular junction the chemistry of synaptic transmission - mechanisms of synaptic transmission, myasthenia gravis - a neuromuscular disease, neurotransmitters and neuromodulators receptor potentials - mechanoreceptors, invertebrate photoreceptors, vertebrate photoreceptors membrane channels and receptor proteins - the acetylcholine-gated channel "Shaker" flies and potassium channels, visual pigments and receptor proteins. Part 2 Networks - integrative neuroscience: invertebrate nervous systems - nervous system design, mechanisms underlying behaviour control of rhythmic motor behaviour - the heartbeat in the leech, swimming in "Tritonia", modulation of neural circuits an invertabrate model of memory and learning - early theories, the Gill-withdrawal reflex in "Aplysia" the neural circuitry of the reflex, long-term habituation and sensitization, a summary scheme of habituation and sensitization the vertebrate brain - the central nervous system, the spinal cord, the brain motor control in vertebrates - the autonomic nervous system, voluntary movement retinal processing of visual information - the retina, the initial stages of visual processing, cellular mechanisms, functional organization of the retina, modulation of retinal synapses cortical processing of visual information - the lateral geniculate nucleus, the visual cortex, binocular interaction and depth perception the architecture of the visual cortex - lateral geniculate architecture, the visual cortex - area V1, cortical plasticity - the effects of visual deprivation, mechanisms underlying deprivation changes the development of the brain - the neural plate, tube, and crest, the differentiation of enurons, axon projection and and synapse formation, axonal guidance toward an understanding of higher brain function - higher cortical processing, studying the human brain. Appendix: electrical charge and circuits.
Exploiting Channel Locality for Adaptive Massive MIMO Signal Detection

We propose MMNet, a deep learning MIMO detection scheme that significantly outperforms existing approaches on realistic channels with the same or lower computational complexity. MMNet’s design builds on the theory of iterative soft-thresholding algorithms and uses a novel training algorithm that leverages temporal and spectral correlation in real channels to accelerate training. These innovations make it practical to train MMNet online for every realization of the channel. On spatially-correlated channels, MMNet achieves the same error rate as the next-best learning scheme (OAMPNet) at 2.5dB lower signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and with at least 10× less computational complexity. MMNet is also 4–8dB better overall than the linear minimum mean square error (MMSE) detector.
Effect of the inclusion of mushroom values on the optimal management of even-aged pine stands of Catalonia.

Mushrooms are an important product of the pine stands of the Central Pyrenees of Catalonia. In places where the microclimate is reasonably moist, the value of mushrooms may be clearly higher than the value of timber production. This study examines the optimal economic management for both timber and mushrooms in even-aged Scots pine and Black pine stands in Catalonia. Empirical mushroom yield models were integrated in a stand growth simulator, which was linked with an optimization algorithm to find the optimal management schedule for Pinus sylvestris and Pinus nigra stands on different sites and with different mushroom prices. The results showed that on sites where the potential mushroom yield is high, mushrooms should be taken into account in stand management. Thinning treatments, which usually are unprofitable, were included in the optimal management schedule when mushroom production was included in the analysis. Although thinnings have a negative short-term effect on mushroom yields, their long-term effect is often positive because they reduce stand density to a level that is favorable for mushrooms. At elevations that are suitable for P. sylvestris (900 –1,500 m above sea level), the soil expectation value (SEV) of mushroom yields was commonly 4 –10 times higher than the SEV of timber production. At somewhat lower elevations, where P. nigra dominates, the effect of mushrooms on the optimal stand management was smaller because mushroom yields are typically lower in P. nigra stands.
Seismic Performance of Steel Structure-Foundation Systems Designed According to Eurocode 8 Provisions: The Case of Near-Fault Seismic Motions

The seismic performance of steel structure-foundation systems subjected to near-fault earthquakes was assessed on the basis of response results from nonlinear time-history seismic analyses. The structural results included the maximum values for residual interstory drift ratios, base shears, and overturning moments of the steel structures, as well as the maximum values for residual settlement and tilting of the foundations. In order to reveal the influence of soil-building-interaction on the aforementioned response results, the steel building-foundation systems were designed according to Eurocode 8 provisions, assuming initially fixed and then compliant base conditions. It was concluded that for the case of near-fault seismic motions, good seismic performance of steel building-foundation hybrid systems designed according to European Codes was not guaranteed. A particular thing to note for these systems under near-fault seismic motions was that the seismic performance of the steel structure was most likely unacceptable, while one of the foundations was always acceptable.
Down-Regulation of the Orphan Nuclear Receptor RORγt Is Essential for T Lymphocyte Maturation1

Thymocyte development is a tightly regulated process. CD4+CD8+ double-positive (DP) immature thymocytes exhibit distinct phenotypic features from mature T cells; they express only 10% of surface TCR that are found on mature T cells and do not proliferate and produce IL-2 in response to stimulation. In this report we show that transgenic expression of the orphan nuclear receptor RORγt in mature T cells down-regulates their surface TCR expression. The RORγt transgene inhibits IL-2 production by mature T cells, and this inhibition may be partially due to the inhibitory effect of RORγt on c-Rel transcription. Furthermore, ectopic expression of RORγt inhibits the proliferation of mature and immature T cells. These results, together with its predominant expression in DP thymocytes, suggest that RORγt controls these distinct phenotypic features of DP thymocytes. Our data suggest that down-regulation of RORγt expression in thymocytes is essential for their maturation.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids in human nutrition

This volume highlights the clinical implications of findings on the biochemistry, metabolism, and physiological functions of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs). Experts examine the role of LCPUFAs in mediating brain and retinal development, immunomodulation, and other physiological processes and explore the relationship between essential fatty acid balance and cystic fibrosis, behaviour problems, chronic diseases, atopic dermatitis, gynaecological and reproductive disorders, and distrubances of lipoprotein metabolism. Full consideration is given to the intake, digestion, absorption, and metabolism of LCPUFAs in newborn infants and the special problems of premature infants and infants with peroxisomal disorders. The book also addresses practical issues concerning sources and uses of dietary LCPUFAs, particularly in relation to infant feeding.
Derangement of Kidney Biomarkers Associated with Blood Cadmium, Lead and Chromium in Artisans and Petrol Hawkers in Jos, Nigeria

Chronic occupational exposure to heavy metals particularly cadmium, lead and chromium may result in renal alterations affecting both tubuli and glomeruli. We therefore examined the association of blood cadmium (B-Cd), blood lead (B-Pb), and blood chromium (B-Cr) with Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) among artisans and petrol hawkers in Jos, Nigeria. Blood samples were collected from workers who were all men (n=400), drawn from welders, battery repairers, petrol hawkers, tin miners and car painters with age ranging from 15-60 years with a mean value of (35.99 ± 10.59). The control group (n=200) was within the range of 28-49 years and a mean value of (37.10 ± 5.45) and the duration of exposure was limited to between 1-8 years. 10 mL of blood was also collected into plain tubes from each subject. Samples were allowed to stand for 15 minutes after which they were centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 20 minutes and the serum separated with the help of a sterile Pasteur’s Pippette into cryovial containers. Samples were later stored frozen at -20°C pending analysis. Serum levels of heavy metals were done using AAS. Random Urine samples (5 mL), collected in sterile universal containers and used for the determination of micro albumin by latex agglutination methods. Serum Urea/Creatinine was done using COBAS C111 Chemistry auto analyzer. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23 and student t-test was used to compare mean values between the control and study groups. Statistically high levels of Serum Cd, Pb and Cr were detected among welders, car painters and petrol hawkers in addition to the levels of Urea, Creatinine and Micro albumin, which were also statistically increased and significant (P<0.05) among battery repairers, petrol hawkers, car painters and welders with a corresponding eGFR <90 mL/min for Car painters 77(96.3%), followed by battery repairers 60(75.0%), iron welders, 60(75.0%) and petrol hawkers 57(71.3%) respectively. We conclude that artisans and petrol hawkers in jos are prone to kidney damage due to the presence of lead, cadmium, and chromium.
The Education-Industrial Complex: A Consideration of Power, Educational Institution and the Political Disengagement of Urban Secondary Students

The K-12 system of education is a complex organization that has historically denied students of low socio-economic status the opportunity for political engagement through the exercise of power (Apple, 1993; Ben-Porath, 2013; Boggs, 2000; Crayton, 2014; Ethiraj & Levinthal, 2009; Fazzaro, 2006; Gordon, 1980; Horowitz, 1969; Karabel, 1977; Lukes, 2005; Shipps, 2008; Wedel, 2009). This statement is in response to a series of questions presented by members of my Academic Advisory Committee, respectively, as a Qualifying Exam for doctoral candidacy in Urban Education Studies. This article is a response to the series of questions that will address the concern of the opening statement including: Professor Peter Seybold’s Questions of Power in the K-12 Education System; Professor Brendan Maxcy’s request on the state of political youth engagement in Urban Secondary Schools; and Professor Jim Scheurich’s request for focus on PAR (Participatory Action Research) and YPAR (Youth Participatory Action Research) in the education system as they relate to the political engagement of Urban Secondary Students.
Exploring sources of uncertainty in premature mortality estimates from fine particulate matter: the case of China

Atmospheric pollution from fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is one of the major concerns in China because of its widespread and harmful impacts on human health. In recent years, multiple studies have sought to estimate the premature mortality burden from exposure to PM2.5 to inform policy decisions. However, different modeling choices have led to a wide array of results, with significant discrepancies both in the total mortality burden and in the confidence intervals. Here, we present a new comprehensive assessment of PM2.5-related mortality for China, which includes quantification of the main sources of variability, as well as of age and province-specific premature mortality trends during 2015–2018. Our approach integrates PM2.5 observations from more than 1600 monitoring stations with the output of a high-resolution (8 km) regional simulation, to accurately estimate PM2.5 fields along with their uncertainty, which is generally neglected. We discuss the sensitivity of mortality estimates to the choice of the exposure-response functions (ERFs), by comparing the widely used integrated exposure response functions (IERs) to the recently developed Global Exposure Mortality Models (GEMMs). By propagating the uncertainty in baseline mortalities, PM2.5 and ERFs under a Monte Carlo framework, we show that the 95% confidence intervals of mortality estimates are considerably wider than previously reported. We thus highlight the need for more epidemiological studies to constrain ERFs and we argue that uncertainty related to PM2.5 estimate should be also incorporated in health impact assessment studies. Although the overall mortality burden remains vast in China (∼1.6 million premature deaths, according to GEMMs), our results suggest that 200 000 premature deaths were avoided and 195 billion US dollars were saved in 2018 compared to 2015, bolstering the mounting evidence about the effectiveness of China’s air quality policies.
Quantitative Geography and Genomics : Spatial analysis to detect signatures of selection along a gradient of altitude in the common frog (Rana temporaria)

We applied a spatial approach to detect regions of the genome of the common frog (Rana temporaria) which are possibly selected along an altitude gradient. The identification of selected regions in the genome is important as it gives the possibility to understand which genes are driven by natural selection. In the field of population genetics, several statistical methods using molecular data were developed to reveal genomic regions under selection. Here, we tackled the issue from an environmental point of view by using a spatial analysis method (SAM) recently developed. The method is based on the spatial coincidence concept and has recourse to GIS, environmental data and molecular data to simultaneously process many univariate logistic regression models. This research showed that there is a strong correspondence between spatial analysis results and those obtained with a standard population genomics approach.
Thermoelectric Structured Systems with Nanophonic Metamaterials

This work is aimed at analysis of methods for the developing of new thermoelectric systems including those based on the so-called locally resonant "nanophonic" metamaterials. These materials, with their experimental realization, are intended for use in thermoelectric systems, since they have a large value of the thermoelectric Q-factor ZT. The increase in Q is achieved by reducing the thermal conductivity of the material, which leads to an increase in the value of ZT, if the electrical conductivity remains the same. The reduction in thermal conductivity, without corresponding reduction in electrical conductivity, is achieved by choosing a configuration of thermoelectric materials consisting of a thin film with a periodic set of columns mounted on a free surface. Such a configuration qualitatively changes the base phonon spectrum of a thin film due to the hybridization mechanism between local column resonances and underlying lattice scattering. Numerical methods are used to study changes in the phonon spectrum and, as a consequence, a change (decrease) in the value of thermal conductivity depending on variations in the system architecture.