Abstract
In this paper, we present a method for estimating local thickness distribution in finite element models, applied to injection molded and cast engineering parts. This method features considerable improved performance compared to two previously proposed approaches, and has been validated against thickness measured by different human operators. We also demonstrate that the use of this method for assigning a distribution of local thickness in FEM crash simulations results in a much more accurate prediction of the real part performance, thus increasing the benefits of computer simulations in engineering design by enabling zero-prototyping and thus reducing product development costs. The simulation results have been compared to experimental tests, evidencing the advantage of the proposed method. Thus, the proposed approach to consider local thickness distribution in FEM crash simulations has high potential on the product development process of complex and highly demanding injection molded and cast parts and is currently being used by Ford Motor Company.

Abstract
The genetic code is an abstraction of how mRNA codons and tRNA anticodons molecularly interact during protein synthesis; the stability and regulation of this interaction remains largely unexplored. Here, we characterized the expression of mRNA and tRNA genes quantitatively at multiple time points in two developing mouse tissues. We discovered that mRNA codon pools are highly stable over development and simply reflect the genomic background; in contrast, precise regulation of tRNA gene families is required to create the corresponding tRNA transcriptomes. The dynamic regulation of tRNA genes during development is controlled in order to generate an anticodon pool that closely corresponds to messenger RNAs. Thus, across development, the pools of mRNA codons and tRNA anticodons are invariant and highly correlated, revealing a stable molecular interaction interlocking transcription and translation.

Abstract
In this paper, a Training and Support system for Search and Rescue operations is described. The system is a component of the ICARUS project (http://www.fp7-icarus.eu) which has a goal to develop sensor, robotic and communication technologies for Human Search And Rescue teams. The support system for planning and managing complex SAR operations is implemented as a command and control component that integrates different sources of spatial information, such as maps of the affected area, satellite images and sensor data coming from the unmanned robots, in order to provide a situation snapshot to the rescue team who will make the necessary decisions. Support issues will include planning of frequency resources needed for given areas, prediction of coverage conditions, location of fixed communication relays, etc. The training system is developed for the ICARUS operators controlling UGVs (Unmanned Ground Vehicles), UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) and USVs (Unmanned Surface Vehicles) from a unified Remote Control Station (RC2). The Training and Support system is implemented in SaaS model (Software as a Service). Therefore, its functionality is available over the Ethernet. SAR ICARUS teams from different countries can be trained simultaneously on a shared virtual stage. In this paper we will show the multi-robot 3D mapping component (aerial vehicle and ground vehicles). We will demonstrate that these 3D maps can be used for Training purpose. Finally we demonstrate current approach for ICARUS Urban SAR (USAR) and Marine SAR (MSAR) operation training. © 2014 IEEE.

Abstract
Doppler self-mixing laser probing techniques are often used for vibration measurement with very high accuracy. A novel optoelectronic probe solution is proposed, based on off-the-shelf components, with a direct reflection optical scheme for contactless characterization of the target’s movement. This probe was tested with two test bench apparatus that enhance its precision performance, with a linear actuator at low frequency (35?µm, 5–60?Hz), and its dynamics, with disc shaped transducers for small amplitude and high frequency (0.6?µm, 100–2500?Hz). The results, obtained from well-established signal processing methods for self-mixing Doppler signals, allowed the evaluation of vibration velocity and amplitudes with an average error of less than 10%. The impedance spectrum of piezoelectric (PZ) disc target revealed a maximum of impedance (around 1?kHz) for minimal Doppler shift. A bidimensional scan over the PZ disc surface allowed the categorization of the vibration mode (0,?1) and explained its deflection directions. The feasibility of a laser vibrometer based on self-mixing principles and supported by tailored electronics able to accurately measure submicron displacements was, thus, successfully demonstrated.

Abstract
Flexibility requirements can appear in the middle of a software development, perceived by several client requests to change the application. A flexible domain model, usually implemented with using the adaptive object model (AOM) architectural style, required custom-made components to handle the current implementation of the domain entities. The problem is that by evolving an AOM model, the components need to be evolved as well, which generates constant rework. This work studied the possible AOM evolution paths, in order to provide support in the components for model changing. An evolution of the Esfinge AOM RoleMapper framework were developed to provide this functionality, allowing AOM models in different stages to be mapped to a single structure. The study was evaluated using a set of tests that were applied in each possible structure for the model.

Abstract
Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) are able to provide hardware accelerators still maintaining the required programmability. However, the advantages of using FPGAs still depend on the expertise of developers and their knowledge of Hardware Description Languages (HDLs). Although High-level Synthesis (HLS) tools have been developed in order to minimize this problem, they commonly present solutions considered many times inefficient when compared to the ones achieved by a specialized hardware designer. Domain-specific languages (DSLs) can provide alternative solutions to program FPGAs. They can provide higher abstraction levels than HDLs and they may allow the programmer to tune implementations whenever HLS tools are unable to generate efficient designs. In this paper we compare a DSL, named LALP (Language for Aggressive Loop Pipelining), with two typical HLS approaches and show the experimental results achieved in each case. The results show that the use of LALP provides superior performance than the achieved by the HLS tools in most cases.