Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Determination of the Repeatability of a Kuka Robot Using the Stochastic Ellipsoid Approach

In this paper, we display experimental results about the measurement of repeatability of an industrial Kuka robot. We first study the distributions of the angular positions and show that these distributions can be considered as Gaussian. We compute repeatability in different locations of the workspace using the experimental angular covariance matrix and the stochastic ellipsoid modeling. We measure repeatability and observe a high variability. We explain the phenomenon by drawing the distribution of the 30 sample repeatability index. We then compare the computed andmeasured repeatability and conclude that our modeling gives good results. We analyse the incidence of weight and workspace location on repeatability and bring additional results to the existing literature.
Cost-effectiveness of filgrastim and pegfilgrastim as primary prophylaxis against febrile neutropenia in lymphoma patients.

BACKGROUND Febrile neutropenia is a serious toxicity of cancer chemotherapy that is usually treated in hospital. We assessed the cost-effectiveness of filgrastim and pegfilgrastim as primary prophylaxis against febrile neutropenia in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients undergoing chemotherapy. METHODS We used a Markov model that followed patients through induction chemotherapy to compare the three prophylaxis strategies: 1) no primary prophylaxis against febrile neutropenia; 2) primary prophylaxis with 10 days of filgrastim therapy; and 3) primary prophylaxis with a single dose of pegfilgrastim. The target population was a hypothetical cohort of 64-year-old men and women with DLBCL. Data sources included published literature and current clinical practice. The analysis was conducted from a publicly funded health-care system perspective. The main outcome measures included costs, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs). RESULTS In the base-case analysis, costs associated with no primary prophylaxis, primary prophylaxis with 10 days of filgrastim, and primary prophylaxis with pegfilgrastim were CaD $7314, CaD $13947, and CaD $16290, respectively. The QALYs associated with the three strategies were 0.2004, 0.2015, and 0.2024, respectively. The ICER for the filgrastim vs no primary prophylaxis strategy was CaD $5796000 per QALY. The ICER for the pegfilgrastim vs filgrastim primary prophylaxis strategy was CaD $2611000 per QALY. All one-way sensitivity analyses yielded ICERs greater than CaD $400000 per QALY. Cost-effectiveness acceptability curves show that 20.0% of iterations are cost-effective at a willingness-to-pay threshold of CaD $1595000 for the filgrastim strategy and CaD $561000 for the pegfilgrastim strategy. CONCLUSIONS Primary prophylaxis against febrile neutropenia with either filgrastim or pegfilgrastim is not cost-effective in DLBCL patients.
BPMN VS. UML ACTIVITY DIAGRAM FOR BUSINESS PROCESS MODELING

During the last years, it has been noticed a growing interest of organizations in improving their business processes in order to be more competitive in a globalized economy that passes nowadays through a severe financial crisis with restrictive market conditions and limited profit margins. The first step in achieving this goal is to use an adequate business process modeling language to represent their business processes. For this purpose, an evaluation of the existing business process modeling languages would be very useful in making the right decision. Our research work comes to supplement the previous researches that have evaluated business process modeling languages. The evaluation performed in this paper is focused on the two most widely used graphical notations for business processes: Business Process Modeling and Notation (BPMN) and UML Activity Diagram (UML AD). The evaluation criteria are: capacity of being readily understandable, adequacy of the graphical elements of BPMN and UML AD to represent the real business processes of an organization and mapping to Business Process Execution Languages. The results of evaluating BPMN and UML AD against each of these three criteria are presented in the paper.
Exploring differences in how learners navigate in MOOCs based on self-regulated learning and learning styles: A process mining approach

Study in a Massive Open and Online Courses (MOOCs) is challenging, since participants take the course without the support of a teacher. Taking a MOOC require the students to have the ability to self-regulate their learning. However, every person has its own learning style and the way each one interacts and self-regulate in a MOOC varies. In this work we present an exploratory study from a process-oriented perspective to study whether students with different learning styles and SRL profiles show differences in navigating through a MOOC. Specifically, we investigate using Process Mining Techniques to analyze log files recording the course behavior of 99 learners across an Open edX MOOC combined with data from self-reported surveys. Our findings show that learners with different SRL profiles follow similar navigation paths, but there are differences when differentiating students by their learning styles.
Characterizations of GIG laws: A survey

Several characterizations of the Generalized Inverse Gaussian (GIG) distribution on the positive real line have been proposed in the literature, especially over the past two decades. These characterization theorems are surveyed, and two new characterizations are established, one based on maximum likelihood estimation and the other is a Stein characterization.
IL-1β Signaling Promotes CNS-Intrinsic Immune Control of West Nile Virus Infection

West Nile virus (WNV) is an emerging flavivirus capable of infecting the central nervous system (CNS) and mediating neuronal cell death and tissue destruction. The processes that promote inflammation and encephalitis within the CNS are important for control of WNV disease but, how inflammatory signaling pathways operate to control CNS infection is not defined. Here, we identify IL-1β signaling and the NLRP3 inflammasome as key host restriction factors involved in viral control and CNS disease associated with WNV infection. Individuals presenting with acute WNV infection displayed elevated levels of IL-1β in their plasma over the course of infection, suggesting a role for IL-1β in WNV immunity. Indeed, we found that in a mouse model of infection, WNV induced the acute production of IL-1β in vivo, and that animals lacking the IL-1 receptor or components involved in inflammasome signaling complex exhibited increased susceptibility to WNV pathogenesis. This outcome associated with increased accumulation of virus within the CNS but not peripheral tissues and was further associated with altered kinetics and magnitude of inflammation, reduced quality of the effector CD8+ T cell response and reduced anti-viral activity within the CNS. Importantly, we found that WNV infection triggers production of IL-1β from cortical neurons. Furthermore, we found that IL-1β signaling synergizes with type I IFN to suppress WNV replication in neurons, thus implicating antiviral activity of IL-1β within neurons and control of virus replication within the CNS. Our studies thus define the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway and IL-1β signaling as key features controlling WNV infection and immunity in the CNS, and reveal a novel role for IL-1β in antiviral action that restricts virus replication in neurons.
Effects of comb age on honey bee colony growth and brood survivorship

SUMMARY This research examined the effects of comb age on honey bee colony growth and brood survivorship. Experimental old combs were of an unknown age, but were dark and heavy as typical of combs one or more years old. New combs were produced just prior to the beginning of the experiment and had never had brood previously reared in them. Either old or new combs were installed into each of 21–24 nucleus colonies each year over a three-year period. On average, colonies with new comb produced a greater area (cm2) of brood, a greater area (cm2) of sealed brood, and a higher weight of individual young bees (mg). Brood survivorship was the only variable significantly higher in old comb.
“IN OUR OWN WORDS”: THE PHENOMENOLOGICAL EXPLORATION INTO THE AFRICAN AMERICAN EXPERIENCE OF RELATIONAL THERAPY WITH WHITE THERAPISTS

The consideration of one’s cultural context is a critical component of systemic therapy. Marriage and family therapy literature underscores this importance with a wealth of information on working with various diverse family systems. The literature has not adequately reflected the voices of the African American client. The purpose of this study was to understand the African American experience in relational therapy with White clinicians. Phenomenological methodology was employed via semi-structured interviews with eleven participants across the United States. The findings revealed three themes (lived experiences of African Americans, lack of culturally responsive clinical practice, and what works in therapy). The data also culminated in a formula that demonstrates the failure to practice through a culturally responsive lens. Inversely, a second, corrective, formula was proposed to attend to the cultural context of the client. There was agreement on what made treatment a positive experience which clustered around the character of the therapist, the therapist’s regard and respect for the client, and the level of skill demonstrated as part of the therapeutic work. Clinical recommendations include a more systemic approach to training therapists. Training from both a social justice and a self of the therapist lens is important as it allows clinicians to understand their impact. In systems theory, clinicians become a part of the client system to create a context in which change can occur (Becvar & Becvar, 2013). If a clinician does not understand themselves within the context of social justice dynamics, they risk subjecting their clients to the same injustices in therapy as they face consistently in their day to day lives. To ensure effective, culturally responsive clinicians in training, other levels of the system need to engage beyond administrative, fiduciary, and gatekeeper duties. “IN OUR OWN WORDS”: THE PHENOMENOLOGICAL EXPLORATION INTO THE AFRICAN AMERICAN EXPERIENCE OF RELATIONAL THERAPY WITH WHITE THERAPISTS BY Melody Michele Brown B.A. University of New Orleans, 1993 M.A. Northeast Louisiana University, 1997 Dissertation Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy Syracuse University December 2017 Copyright  Melody M. Brown 2017 All Rights Reserved
Influence of Business Networking on Competitiveness of Small and Medium Agro Processing Firms in Murang’a County, Kenya

The purpose of this study was to analyze the influence of business networking on competitiveness of small and medium agro-processing firms in Murang’a County, Kenya. Most farmers and agro processors in Kenya export semi-processed, low-value produce, some of which they later import as finished products. In order to earn more from their efforts, agro-processors in Kenya must embark on production of consumer ready products that will compete regionally and globally. To attain this competitiveness, the agro-processors must strategically engage in business networks that will greatly influence their competitive success. The choice of the rural county of Murang’a in Kenya was informed by the assumption that the findings of the study can be generalized to suit all the other rural counties of Kenya. Porter’s diamond theory of competitiveness guided the study but three other relevant theories were also considered. The study adopted correlation research design to guide the collection, analysis and presentation of data. Questionnaires were the main instruments of collecting data from respondents sampled from 180 agro-processing firms in Murang’a County. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS while the qualitative data was subjected to content analysis. The study established that business networking significantly influences the competitiveness of small and medium agro-processing firms in Murang’a County, Kenya since it aided the agro processing firms to improve their brands’ value, productivity and profitability. However, the networks that agro processing firms in Murang’a County engaged in were based on trust and not formally established.
Evolution equations for dunes and drumlins

Dunes and drumlins are examples of bedforms, geomorphological patterns in which the surface of the Earth is shaped by the erosive power of wind, water or ice. Aeolian dunes (i.e., desert dunes) are the most familiar such feature. Coastal sand dunes are a feature of common experience, and we are also familiar with the existence of dunes in deserts. Dunes are formed by the erosive power of the wind, which transports the sand particles at the surface, and sculpts them into a variety of shapes. These can be very large (hundreds of metres in elevation), and take a variety of geometric forms depending on the prevailing wind speed and direction(s) (Tsoar 2001). A spectacular example is shown in figure 1.
Prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder among medical students and its impact on their academic and social performance

Background: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a disorder affecting large number of population in terms of their physical and psychological well-being. A large number of college drop outs are because of PMS. Aims and Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of presence of different symptoms of PMS and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) among medical college girls and its effect on their social and academic life. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in a medical college in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd year MBBS student girls by providing them a questionnaire regarding the presence of different symptoms of PMS and PMDD and its impact on their academic and social performance. Results: The prevalence of PMS was reported to be 65% in the present study. The most common somatic symptom was body pain (52%) and the most common affective symptom was irritability (50%). In spite of this, only 12% of individuals with PMS become absent in class and 32% avoid joining social functions. The prevalence of PMDD among the study population was 12%. Conclusion: It is concluded from the present study that PMS and PMDD are very common problems among medical students affecting their educational and social activities.
Expertise and Conspiracy Theories

Abstract Judging the warrant of conspiracy theories can be difficult, and often we rely upon what the experts tell us when it comes to assessing whether particular conspiracy theories ought to be believed. However, whereas there are recognised experts in the sciences, I argue that only are is no such associated expertise when it comes to the things we call ‘conspiracy theories’, but that the conspiracy theorist has good reason to be suspicious of the role of expert endorsements when it comes to conspiracy theories and their rivals. The kind of expertise, then, we might associate with conspiracy theories is largely improvised – in that it lacks institutional features – and, I argue, ideally the product of a community of inquiry.
Identifying personality traits associated with entrepreneurial success: does gender matter?

This study provides a conceptual and empirical clarification of the extent to which the Big Five personality traits of openness to experience, extraversion, neuroticism, conscientiousness, and agreeableness affect entrepreneurial success in an emerging country context. We also examine whether gender moderates the association between these five personality traits and entrepreneurial success. 174 Tunisian entrepreneurs were surveyed by using a questionnaire and the partial least squares method and multi-group analysis were piloted to test the six research hypotheses. The results clearly demonstrate that entrepreneurial personality traits that relate significantly to business success are characterized by high emotional stability, openness to experience, and conscientiousness. Further, the results illustrate that gender moderates the association between personality and entrepreneurial success. Government agencies that promote and encourage entrepreneurs and business creation may find the presented findings useful in helping to recognize future successful entrepreneurs on the basis of their personality traits.JEL Codes: M1
Liver fibrogenesis due to cholestasis is associated with increased Smad7 expression and Smad3 signaling

Background/Aims: Profibrogenic TGF‐β signaling in hepatic stellate cells is modulated during transdifferentiation. Strategies to abrogate TGF‐β effects provide promising antifibrotic results, however, in vivo data regarding Smad activation during fibrogenesis are scarce. Methods: Here, liver fibrosis was assessed subsequent to bile duct ligation by determining liver enzymes in serum and collagen deposition in liver tissue. Activated hepatic stellate cells were identified by immunohistochemistry and immunoblots for alpha smooth muscle actin. Cellular localization of Smad3 and Smad7 proteins was demonstrated by immunohistochemistry. RTPCR for Smad4 and Smad7 was conducted with total RNA and Northern blot analysis for Smad7 with mRNA. Whole liver lysates were prepared to detect Smad2/3/4 and phospho‐ Smad2/3 by Western blotting. Results: Cholestasis induces TGF‐β signaling via Smad3 in vivo, whereas Smad2 phosphorylation was only marginally increased. Smad4 expression levels were unchanged. Smad7 expression was continuously increasing with duration of cholestasis. Hepatocytes of fibrotic lesions exhibited nuclear staining Smad3. In contrast to this, Smad7 expression was localized to activated hepatic stellate cells. Conclusions: Hepatocytes of damaged liver tissue display increased TGF‐β signaling via Smad3. Further, negative feedback regulation of TGF‐β signaling by increased Smad7 expression in activated hepatic stellate cells occurs, however does not interfere with fibrogenesis.
Determinants of the Regular Physical Activity among Employees of Healthcare Network: Application of Health Belief Model

Background & Objective: Inactivity is one of the 10 leading causes of death in the world, doubling the risk of cardiovascular disease. Health belief model (HBM) is an effective model in predict the regular physical activity behavior. This study aimed at identifying determinants of the regular physical activity in order to prevent cardiovascular diseases, using HBM. Instruments & Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross sectional study was conducted on employees working in a healthcare network affiliated to Ilam University of Medical Sciences in 2017. 163 subjects were selected by simple random sampling method. The instruments to collect the data were standard inventory of HBM-ISCS and self-made questionnaire that were applied after reviewing and approving their validity and reliability. Eventually, the data were analyzed, by SPSS 16, using Pearson correlation coefficient, multiple regression analysis, and ETA test. Results: The perceived severity and self-efficacy were significant predictors of daily and weekly regular physical activity. Meanwhile, multiple regression analysis predicted 23.3% of the behavior. Also, gender had the strongest relationship with the barriers of physical activity and marital status and occupation had the strongest relationship with selfefficacy. Education had no significant statistical relationship with model constructs and age had a significant statistical relationship with perceived severity and the benefits of physical activity. Conclusion: The perceived severity and self-efficacy from health belief model are the strongest determinants for daily and weekly physical activity.
Trends in the Attack Rates, Incidence, and Mortality of Stroke during 1986–2012: Data of Kaunas (Lithuania) Stroke Registry

Background There is a lack of reliable epidemiological data on longitudinal trends in stroke attack rates, incidence, and mortality in the countries of the Baltic region. Aims The aim of the present study was to explore the longitudinal trends of stroke in middle-aged urban population of Lithuania during the period of 1986 through 2012. Methods All stroke events in the studied population were ascertained and validated according to the standardized criteria outlined by the WHO MONICA Project. The study included all patients in Kaunas (Lithuania) city aged 25 to 64 years who experienced a stroke between 1986 and 2012. Estimates of time-trends of the annual percentage change in stroke attack rates, incidence of stroke, and mortality from this condition were made by applying the Joinpoint regression analysis. Results During the study period, 9,992 stroke events were registered. The overall proportion of recurrent events was 25.7%. Overall, 18.9% of the events (20.0% in men, and 17.4% in women) were fatal within 28 days. During the period of 1986 to 2012, a flat trend in the incidence of stroke was observed among both male and female middle-aged inhabitants of Kaunas city, while attack rates were increasing due to the increase in recurrent strokes. Both mortality and 28-day case fatality of stroke declined significantly over the study period in both sexes. Conclusions An increase both in the incidence and recurrence of stroke among middle-aged men residing in Kaunas city and in the recurrence of stroke among women denotes the inefficiency of measures applied both for primary and secondary prevention of stroke in Lithuania. The revision of current prevention strategies and the introduction of new ones are of paramount importance in order to fight the epidemic of stroke.
Study Skills of Teacher Candidates

In this study, the relationship between the students’ study skills, their teaching programs, fields at the university placement exam and academic achievements were analyzed. The study was carried out by one of the survey models called the relational survey model. The sampling of the study was made up 972 teacher candidates who were chosen among all candidates studying in the teacher education programs of an Education Faculty. Survey of Study Habits and Attitudes was used to bring out their study skills and the data was analysed using one way and two way Manova tests in SPSS program. With the data obtained, it was found that the study skills of the teacher candidates revealed the differences according to their program of study and there was a meaningful difference between their study skills and academic achievements. Moreover, it was determined that the teacher candidates had lower and moderate level study skills. Problems that prevent students from studying were also identified. In the light of these results, solutions to overcome these problems are presented.
Multiple Views and Magic Mirrors - fMRI Visualization of the Human Brain

Multimodal visualization of functional and anatomical data of the human brain is an important field in medical volume visualization. The aim of this application is to provide the user with information on the location of functional activations in the different regions of the brain. When the approach of direct volume rendering is chosen, the visual impression of details usually suffers from accumulating the image from colors and opacities derived from the data set. We present extensions to overcome this problem: Transfer function volumes are used for the highlighting of activated regions. Multiple views simplify the task of localizing these parts of the brain. Complementary information is brought into the visualization by Magic Mirrors in order to enhance the comprehensive view of the multimodal arrangement of volume data sets.