Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Primitives et protocoles cryptographiques à sécurité prouvée

Nous etudions la relation existant entre le modele de l'oracle aleatoire et le modele du chiffrement par blocs ideal. Nous montrons que ces deux modeles sont equivalents : l'existence d'un cryptosysteme sur dans l'un des modeles implique l'existence d'un cryptosysteme sur dans l'autre modele. Nous montrons que si un cryptosysteme utilisant un chiffrement par blocs ideal est sur, alors le cryptosysteme reste sur en remplacant le chiffrement par blocs par la construction de Luby-Rackoff a 6 tours ou les fonctions internes sont publiquement accessibles. Puis, nous etudions les protocoles cryptographiques fondes sur le probleme LPN. Le schema d'authentification HB+ a suscite un grand interet et de nombreuses variantes cherchant a renforcer sa securite ont ete proposees. Nous cryptanalysons trois de ces variantes, puis proposons le protocole HB#. Nous proposons egalement un schema de chiffrement probabiliste symetrique dont la securite peut etre reduite a la difficulte du probleme LPN.
Calpain mediates caspase-dependent apoptosis initiated by hydrogen peroxide in pancreatic acinar AR42J cells

Abstract Several studies have shown that oxidative stress induces apoptosis in many cellular systems including pancreatic acinar cells. However, the exact molecular mechanisms leading to apoptosis remain partially understood. This study aimed to investigate the role of the cytosolic cysteine protease calpain in H2O2-induced apoptosis in pancreatic AR42J cells. Apoptosis was evaluated using flow cytometric analysis of sub-G1 DNA populations, electron-microscopic analysis, caspase-3-specific αII-spectrin breakdown, and measuring the proteolytic activities of the initiator caspase-12 and caspase-8, and the executioner caspase-3. H2O2 induced an increase in the calpain proteolytic activity immediately after starting the experiments that tended to return to a nearly normal level after 8 h and could be attributed to m-calpain. Whereas no caspase-12, caspase-8 and caspase-3 activations could be detected within the first 0.5 h, significantly increased proteolytic activities were observed after 8 h compared with the control. At the same time, the cells showed first ultrastructural hallmarks of apoptosis and a decreased viability. In addition, αII-spectrin fragmentation was identified using immunoblotting that could be attributed to both calpain and caspase-3. Calpain inhibition reduced the activities of caspase-12, caspase-8, and caspase-3 leading to a decrease in the number of apoptotic cells. Immunoblotting analyses of caspase-12 and caspase-8 indicate that calpain may be involved in the activation process of both proteases. The results suggest that H2O2-induced apoptosis of AR42J cells requires activation of m-calpain initiating the endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced caspase-12 pathway and a caspase-8-dependent pathway. The findings also suggest that calpain may be involved in the execution phase of apoptosis.
Analysis of Capsid Formation of Human Polyomavirus JC (Tokyo-1 Strain) by a Eukaryotic Expression System: Splicing of Late RNAs, Translation and Nuclear Transport of Major Capsid Protein VP1, and Capsid Assembly

ABSTRACT Human polyomavirus JC (JCV) can encode the three capsid proteins VP1, VP2, and VP3, downstream of the agnoprotein in the late region. JCV virions are identified in the nucleus of infected cells. In this study, we have elucidated unique features of JCV capsid formation by using a eukaryotic expression system. Structures of JCV polycistronic late RNAs (M1 to M4 and possibly M5 and M6) generated by alternative splicing were determined. VP1 would be synthesized from M2 RNA, and VP2 and VP3 would be synthesized from M1 RNA. The presence of the open reading frame of the agnoprotein or the leader sequence (nucleotides 275 to 409) can decrease the expression level of VP1. VP1 was efficiently transported to the nucleus in the presence of VP2 and VP3 but distributed both in the cytoplasm and in the nucleus in their absence. Mutation analysis indicated that inefficiency in nuclear transport of VP1 is due to the unique structure in the N-terminal sequence, KRKGERK. Within the nucleus, VP1 was localized discretely and identified as speckles in the presence of VP2 and VP3 but distributed diffusely in their absence. These results suggest that VP1 was efficiently transported to the nucleus and localized in the discrete subnuclear regions, possibly with VP2 and VP3. By electron microscopy, recombinant virus particles were identified in the nucleus, and their intranuclear distribution was consistent with distribution of speckles. This system provides a useful model with which to understand JCV capsid formation and the structures and functions of the JCV capsid proteins.
Functional Analysis of EBV in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Cells

A membrane invasion culture system was used to study the ability of EBV to enhance invasion and migration of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cells. Semi-reverse transcriptase-PCR analysis of matrix proteinases and angiogenic factors from EBV-infected, or EBV-positive (EBV+), cells demonstrated different degrees of elevated gene expression. In our animal model, EBV+ tumors grew faster and larger than EBV-free, or EBV-negative (EBV−), tumors and also had clonal EBV terminal repeat sequences. Double-localization of EBV and certain host proteins in EBV+ tumors and biopsy specimens demonstrated that EBV up-regulates host genes only in cells that express those genes but not in cells that do not express them. Double-localization of EBV and host genes in NPC biopsy specimens all showed EBV− tumor cells expressing those host genes. Our data strongly suggest that EBV infection enhances progression of NPC tumor growth. They do not rule out a role for EBV infection in the induction and early promotion of NPC development. Unidentified factors may also enhance NPC tumor growth independent of the effects of EBV.
Female Bladder Outlet Obstruction after Anti-Incontinence Surgery

Urinary incontinence is a significant medical problem affecting quality of life in women. Numerous surgical treatment options are available for management of stress urinary incontinence, including urethral bulking agents, pubo-vaginal slings, retropubic bladder neck suspensions, mid-urethral slings, and even artificial urinary sphincters. We will discuss the incidence, etiology, diagnosis, evaluation, and management of outlet obstruction after anti-incontinence surgery in females. Symptoms of bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) after anti-incontinence surgery can have a wide range of symptoms, including straining to void, valsalva voiding, sense of incomplete emptying, weak stream, acute urinary retention, suprapubic fullness or pain in the setting of patients with prior normal voiding is the single most useful diagnostic parameter. Urodynamic diagnosis of obstruction is not always straight forward, but is another helpful clinical tool. Management options for urinary obstruction post anti-incontinence surgery range from conservative to invasive and surgical treatment options include sling loosening, sling incision and excision, as well as urethrolysis. Optimal timeline for surgical intervention is still not well defined, but general guiding principles of management are presented. Comprehensive review of current literature is also performed.
Longitudinal and cross-sectional effects of C-reactive protein, equilibrated normalized protein catabolic rate, and serum bicarbonate on creatinine and albumin levels in dialysis patients.

BACKGROUND Loss of muscle mass and hypoalbuminemia each may result in part from either malnutrition, inflammation, or a combination of both. Short-term acidosis increases muscle protein catabolism and inhibits albumin synthesis. METHODS We analyzed albumin and creatinine levels as outcome variables and their association with C-reactive protein (CRP) level, equilibrated normalized protein catabolic rate (enPCR), and serum bicarbonate level as independent variables from laboratory data obtained from patients in the Hemodialysis Study. Analyses controlled for race, sex, age, body mass index, and randomized treatment group. RESULTS Albumin level correlated with both enPCR and CRP level, but not serum bicarbonate level, in both cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses. Effects of CRP level and enPCR were not linear. Albumin level correlated positively with enPCR for an enPCR less than 1.0 g/kg/d, but not for a greater enPCR, and correlated inversely with CRP level for a CRP level greater than 13 mg/L. Similarly, creatinine level correlated with both enPCR and CRP level. As in the case of albumin level, effects were not linear. Creatinine level correlated positively with enPCR for values less than 1.0 g/kg/d, but not for greater enPCR values. In contrast to albumin level, creatinine level correlated negatively with serum bicarbonate level, even when adjusted for enPCR. CONCLUSION Albumin and creatinine levels are independently associated with nutrition (enPCR) and inflammation (CRP level). The cross-sectional relationship with enPCR is apparent only at values less than 1.0 g/kg/d. CRP level is associated with reduced albumin and creatinine values when increased to values greater than 5.6 mg/dL. CRP may be increased to levels associated with increased cardiovascular risk with little or no effect on either serum albumin or creatinine level. Thus, a normal albumin level does not exclude elevated CRP levels.
Approaches to the design of refugee camps: An empirical study in Kenya, Ethiopia, Greece, and Turkey

Purpose An unprecedented scale of human migration has lead humanitarians to view camps as long-term settlements rather than temporary holding facilities. The purpose of this paper is to increase the understanding of and identify challenges with this proposed new approach to camp design. Design/methodology/approach Based on the camp design literature, the authors developed an interview guide and checklist for data collection. A multi-site case study and within- and cross-case analysis was then conducted. Findings The findings suggest that the proposed new approach is implemented only to a limited extent, and mostly in a stepwise manner. As camps mature, there is a shift toward the new approach, but most camps are established using the traditional top-down, temporary, and isolated approach. Research limitations/implications The findings are based on four camps in four different countries and do not provide an exhaustive global coverage. Practical implications The insights the authors derived and the challenges identified from the empirical evidence can be used to better plan future camps. Social implications The results can support improvements in camp design, thus alleviating suffering for both refugees and host communities, particularly in developing countries. In particular, the trade-off between a permanent solution and the temporary must be accounted for. Originality/value The study contributes to the literature by developing and proposing a conceptual framework to camp design. The cross-case analysis provides an initial understanding and categorization of challenges with implementing the new approach. It also suggests an evolutionary perspective of camp design.
Pityriasis Versicolor in the Pediatric Age

Abstract: Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is a superficial mycosis, theoretically unusual in children. Epidemiologic and clinical data tor children with PV over 11 years was collected. Some explanations are given for the conditions that favored this mycotic infection in children. This study confirms that the face is a usual site of PV in children, in contrast to its rarity as a site in adults. Clinical features are variable and similar to adults. Both sexes are equally affected. The family history is often positive for PV.
Investigating laparoscopic psychomotor skills in veterinarians and veterinary technicians

Objectives: To determine the influence of age, year of graduation, and video game experience on baseline laparoscopic psychomotor skills. Study design: Cross‐sectional. Sample Population: Licensed veterinarians (n = 38) and registered veterinary technicians (VTs) (n = 49). Methods: A laparoscopic box trainer was set up at the 2016 Ontario Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA) and the 2016 Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians (OAVT) conferences held in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Participants volunteered to perform a single repetition of a peg transfer (PT) exercise. Participants were given a short demonstration of the PT task prior to testing. A Spearman's rank correlation (rs) was used to identify associations between baseline psychomotor skills and self‐reported surgical and non‐surgical experiences collected via survey. Mann‐Whitney U tests were used to compare PT scores in veterinarians and VTs. A P‐value of < . 05 was considered significant. Results: The mean age of participants was 36 years (range 21‐67) and the majority were female (83%). In veterinarians, PT scores were highest in the most recent graduates (P = .01, rs = 0.42), and PT scores increased with self‐reported VG experience (P = .02, rs = 0.38). PT scores correlated inversely with age (P = .02, rs = −0.37). No associations were observed in VTs (P > .05). Veterinary technicians that frequently used chopsticks scored higher than those without chopstick experience (P = .04). Conclusions: Age and year of graduation correlated inversely, while self‐reported VG experience correlated positively with laparoscopic psychomotor skills of veterinarians, when assessed on a simulator. The use of chopsticks may contribute to the acquisition of psychomotor skills in VTs.
High incidence of bk virus large‐T‐antigen‐coding sequences in normal human tissues and tumors of different histotypes

T‐antigen (TAg) coding sequences specific for BK virus (BKV) were detected, by PCR amplification followed by Southern‐blot hybridization, in a high percentage of human tumors and tumor‐cell lines, as well as in normal tissues, by analysis of 189 specimens. Specifically, the BKV early region was detected in 85% of brain tumors and in all normal brain tissues, in 78% of osteosarcomas, in 38% of Ewing's tumors, in 40% of normal bone specimens and in 71% of normal peripheral blood cell samples. Wilms' tumor tissues used as a control were all negative for BKV sequences. RT‐PCR analysis indicated that TAg coding sequences were expressed in specimens carrying BKV early region, ranging from 64% of the osteosarcomas to 100% of glioblastomas, Ewing's tumors, peripheral blood cells and normal bone. Moreover, DNA sequencing performed in 12 different positive samples revealed that the amplified PCR products are identical to the early‐region sequence of wild‐type BKV. The role of BKV TAg and its possible mechanism of action in human tumorigenesis are discussed. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE, ETHICS, SIZE, RETAINED EARNINGS AND DEBTS: THEIR RELATIONSHIP WITH SHAREHOLDER VALUE OF FIRMS IN NAIROBI SECURITIES EXCHANGE

Traditionally, Corporations exist primarily to maximize shareholders wealth (Berle & Means,1932; Kapoor,2006; Stout, 2012; Friedman, 1962). The struggle for Corporations to maximize profits have taken centre stage in recent years. This has led to increased use by Corporations of various practices to meet the expectations of various stakeholders / shareholders. This study investigates the relationship between corporate ethics, governance, retained earnings, debts and sizes and shareholder value (EPS) of firms listed on NSE. The results of the study should assist Corporate CEOs and Executives make informed use of the Corporate Practices in furthering corporate objectives. A Survey of staffs of 33 Kenyan Firms listed on NSE revealed that there is significant correlation between these practices and the EPS of the Companies. In addition the study revealed that higher ratings on governance and ethical practices promote efficiency of operations among firms hence increased EPS. Increased adoption of retained earnings and debts to finance investments portrayed increased effects on EPS of the firms. The findings further revealed that corporate size have no significant influence on the EPS of the firms. Adoption of these practices can be an appropriate strategy towards maximization of corporate returns; hence shareholder value of firms. Corporate Managers, CEOs and Executives should, however, carefully evaluate corporate strategies/practices they employ against other forces including market characteristics and nature of company products/services.
Combining touch a mid-air gestures on public displays

This thesis investigates the impact of different factors on public displays that use touch and mid-air gestures. We present a novel application for public displays: MirrorTouch — a game combining touch interaction with mid-air gesturing through depth sense. We studied the impact of these factors through a series field studies. We show that clear affordances are important to communicate both modalities clearly and also how to improve the conversion rate of passers-by. We present our findings of how social situations around such a display varied with the location where the display was placed. We also present quantitative data on group behavior around our public display, such as a measuring of the honeypot effect and how people made transitions between the different modalities. Our results can be of great value to designers and researchers of public displays that want to deploy displays with similar techniques.
Impact of Customer, Environment and Company Side Uncertainty and Risk on Logistical Performance: An Analysis on Pakistan Courier Industry

This study investigates the supply chain uncertainty and risk on the logistics performance of Pakistan courier industry. The three main constructs under the supply chain uncertainty are company side, customer side, and environmental side risk uncertainty. The data has been gathered by means of a questionnaire with a seven scale measurement from which 200 responses have been gathered from the managers, staff members to higher-level managers of the Pakistan Courier industry. The study has used structural equation modeling for the data analysis. The study found that there is a significant relationship between the company-side, customer-side and environmental side risks on the logistics performance of the Pakistan courier industry. The statistical analysis clearly reveals that the courier has been facing the major risk that could affect the health and performance of the company, therefore, it is important to focus on the logistics performance as it is the most notable factor to make courier industry efficient and directly interrelates with the company progress and success.
Tumor variants by hormone receptor expression in white patients with node-negative breast cancer from the surveillance, epidemiology, and end results database.

PURPOSE Hormone receptor expression (presence-positive or absence-negative) may reflect different stages of one disease or different breast cancer types. Determining whether hormone receptor expression represents one or more breast cancer phenotypes would have important paradigmatic and practical implications. METHODS Breast cancer records were obtained from the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. The study included 19,541 non-Hispanic white women with node-negative breast cancer. Standard tumor cell characteristics and breast cancer-specific survival were analyzed by independent estrogen receptor (ER+ and ER-), independent progesterone receptor (PR+ and PR-), and joint ERPR expression (ER+PR+, ER+PR-, ER-PR+, and ER-PR-). RESULTS Age frequency density plots by hormone receptor expression showed two overlapping breast cancer populations with early-onset and/or late-onset etiologies. Independent ER+ and PR+ phenotype were associated with smaller tumor sizes, better grade, and better cancer-specific survival than ER- and PR- breast cancer types. Joint ERPR phenotype exhibited biologic gradients for tumor size, grade, and cancer-specific survival, which ranked from good to worse for ER+PR+ to ER+PR- to ER-PR+ to ER-PR-. CONCLUSION Variations of standard tumor cell characteristics and breast cancer-specific survival by hormone receptor expression in white patients with node-negative breast cancer suggested two breast cancer phenotypes with overlapping etiologies and distinct clinical features.
The Antibacterial Activity of Leaf Extracts of Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Myrtaceae)

The antibacterial activity of the leaf extracts of Eucalyptus camaldulensis was studied against Klebsiella spp, Salmonella typhi, Yersinia enterocolitica, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Gram-negative), Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis by the agar diffusion method. The methanol extract, dichloromethane fraction and methanol residue at 10mg mL-1 displayed broad spectrum activity against all the test organisms but the petroleum ether fraction showed no activity. The antibacterial activity of the extracts was compared to the drug gentamycin. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of the methanol extract and dichloromethane fraction determined by the agar dilution method ranged between 0.04 and 10mg mL-1 with that of Bacillus subtilis being the least. Phytochemical screening of the plant revealed the presence of tannins, saponins and cardiac glycosides. The results of this study support the traditional use of Eucalyptus camaldulensis leaves as an antibacterial agent. Key words: Eucalyptus camaldulensis, antibacterial activity, minimum inhibitory concentration, methanol extract, dichloromethane fraction