Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
PTPRO-mediated autophagy prevents hepatosteatosis and tumorigenesis

Autophagy plays a critical role in the progression of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type O (PTPRO) was recently identified as a tumor suppressor, but little is known about its role in NASH. Here, we investigated the role of PTPRO-dependent autophagy in insulin resistance, lipid metabolism, and hepatocarcinogenesis. Wild-type (WT) and ptpro−/− mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for another 16 weeks after diethylnitrosamine (DEN) injection to induce NASH. Ptpro−/− mice exhibited severe liver injury, insulin resistance, hepatosteatosis and autophagy deficiency compared with WT littermates. PTPRO deletion also promoted the induction of lipogenic target genes and decreases in β-oxidation-related genes. Increased activation of AKT and accumulation of cytoplasmic p53 was detected in ptpro−/− mice, which in combination repressed autophagy. Intriguingly, hyperinsulinemia involving AKT activation was also exacerbated in HFD-fed mice due to PTPRO deletion. Activation of AKT induced stabilization of the MDMX/MDM2 heterocomplex, thus promoting p53 accumulation in the cytoplasm. Inhibition of AKT restored autophagy and p53 accumulation in hepatocytes, indicating that AKT acts upstream of p53. Due to hyperinsulinemia and autophagy deficiency, a HFD could aggravate steatohepatitis in ptpro−/− mice. Importantly, the expression of PTPRO was much decreased in human steatohepatitis, which was associated with increased p62 accumulation. Together, these data indicate that PTPRO regulates insulin and lipid metabolism via the PI3K/Akt/MDM4/MDM2/P53 axis by affecting autophagy.
Frequency of leisure activities and depressive symptomatology in elderly people: the moderating role of rumination

ABSTRACT Background: The positive effects of leisure activities on depressive symptomatology are well known. However, the extent to which emotional regulation variables moderate that relationship has scarcely been studied, especially in older people. The aim of this study is to analyze the moderating role of rumination in the relation between leisure activities and depressive symptoms. Methods: Participants in this study were 311 people, aged 60 to 90 years (mean age: 71.27 years; SD: 6.99; 71.7% women). We evaluated depressive symptomatology, frequency of leisure activities, and rumination. We carried out a hierarchical regression analysis to confirm the moderating role of rumination. Results: We obtained a model that explains 39.4% of the variance of depressive symptomatology. Main effects were found for the frequency of leisure activities (β = −0.397; p < 0.01) and for rumination (β = 0.497; p < 0.01). Moreover, we found a significant effect of the interaction between frequency of leisure activities and rumination (β = 0.110; p < 0.05), suggesting that rumination plays a moderating role in the relation between leisure activities and depressive symptomatology. Conclusions: A risk profile of elderly people may consist of those who engage in low levels of leisure activities but also use more frequently the dysfunctional emotional regulation strategy of rumination.
ShapeTouch: Leveraging contact shape on interactive surfaces

Many interactive surfaces have the ability to detect the shape of hands or objects placed on them. However, shape information is typically either condensed to individual contact points or categorized as discrete gestures. This does not leverage the full expressiveness of touch input, thus limits the actions users can perform in interactive applications. We present ShapeTouch, an exploration of interactions that directly utilize the contact shape on interactive surfaces to manipulations of objects and interactors. ShapeTouch infers virtual contact forces from contact regions and motion to enable interaction with virtual objects in ways that draw upon userspsila everyday experiences of interacting with real physical objects.
Bridging Differences: The Role of Socialization and Inclusivity in Fostering Employee Performance in Healthcare Sector

The main goal of this study is to obtain a more profound understanding of employee performance among healthcare staff, while also focusing on promoting organizational socialization and inclusion in the workplace. Moreover, the study aims to determine the level of ease with which individuals from diverse backgrounds may integrate into the ideal work environment by examining their organizational commitment. The study employed probability sampling with a random sampling approach as the population is known, and the sample size is 329. Regardless of the fact that inclusive workplaces have three separate characteristics, this research focuses solely on the sector that actively promotes them. This research shows that with the arrival of Industry 5.0, the age of people relationships, hospital workers may concentrate on acquiring new knowledge and retaining their existing experience when they are more committed and socialized to be ready for the competitive phase of progress. In addition, the study found that when hospitals fail to prioritize inclusiveness, it leads to the creation of a hostile work environment for healthcare workers. According to the results, a hospital must have a diverse workforce to boost employee performance. Doctors and Nurses adapt to new opportunities and juggle many tasks at once. Effective socialization and the development of organizational commitment sustain and increase employees' performance. Given the lack of direct evidence linking organizational socialization negatively to perceived organizational inclusion in hospitals in Pakistan, Organizations should strive to design socialization processes that promote equity, diversity, and inclusivity to ensure all employees feel valued and included.
A Monitoring and Evaluation Scheme for an ICT-Supported Education Program in Schools

More than 20 years after ICTs were introduced in schools, solid evidence of their impact on student attainment is still lacking. Reasons for this include the mismatch between the methods used to measure the effects and the type of learning promoted, the absence of information regarding the specific types of ICT used, and the scarce attention paid to the monitoring and evaluation of ICT for Education (ICT4E) programs. A monitoring and evaluation scheme would provide qualitative and quantitative data to refine, adjust and improve an ICT4E project, to learn from the experience gained, and to determine whether the program has served its client communities and how it might be replicated. In this paper we present a monitoring and evaluation (M&E) scheme for a specific ICT4E program that supports teaching and learning using mobile computer supported collaborative learning (MCSCL). Using the information provided by the scheme, we analyze the program’s impact on student attainment in terms of teacher adoption of innovation. It was found that there were statistically significant positive differences in students whose teachers showed higher adoption levels when compared both to lower adoption cases and other defined control groups. We conclude that an M&E scheme supports the intervention process by providing real-time information for decision making through the application of assessment instruments according to a monitoring plan. This enables intervention activities to be adjusted so as to ensure an adequate level of adoption.
Toward Assessing and Improving the Quality of Stereo Images

Imaging systems have incorporated numerous technological innovations such as 3-D television and handheld devices. Despite these advances, these techniques still require the human eyes to refocus until the sense of depth perception is achieved by the observer. The more time this takes, the more eye muscles become fatigued and the brain tires from confusion. However, the exact intricacies involved are far more complex. To alleviate these problems, we introduce a learning framework that aims to improve the quality of stereo images. Instead of attempting to cover all factors that affect the quality of stereo images, such as image resolution, monitor response, viewing glass response, viewing conditions, viewer differences, and compression artifacts, we first introduce a set of universally relevant geometric stereo features for anaglyph image analysis based on feature point correspondence across color channels. We then build a regression model that effectively captures the relationship between the stereo features and the quality of stereo images and show that the model performs on par with the average human judge in our study. Finally, we demonstrate the value of the proposed quality model in two proposed applications where it is used to help enhance the quality of stereo images and also to extract stereo key frames from a captured 2-D video.
Conserved abundance and topological features in chromatin‐remodeling protein interaction networks

The study of conserved protein interaction networks seeks to better understand the evolution and regulation of protein interactions. Here, we present a quantitative proteomic analysis of 18 orthologous baits from three distinct chromatin‐remodeling complexes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Homo sapiens. We demonstrate that abundance levels of orthologous proteins correlate strongly between the two organisms and both networks have highly similar topologies. We therefore used the protein abundances in one species to cross‐predict missing protein abundance levels in the other species. Lastly, we identified a novel conserved low‐abundance subnetwork further demonstrating the value of quantitative analysis of networks.
Knock-down of BCL6 / STAT6 sensitizes primary B cell lymphoma cells for treatment with current therapeutic agents

Primary mediastinal B cell lymphoma (PMBL) is characterized by specific molecular hallmarks including the expression of B Cell Lymphoma factor 6 (BCL6) and the presence of the activated Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription factor 6 (STAT6). Recently we have shown that combined targeting of BCL6 and activated STAT6 by specific chemical inhibitors in PMBL resulted in additive efficacy regarding their negative effects on cell viability. Given that despite general efficient immuno-chemotherapy in PMBL the delayed treatment-related sequelae remains still a main challenge, we analyzed the role of BCL6 and activated STAT6 in the sensitivity of PMBL cells to the current treatment components. We found that the knock-down of BCL6 / STAT6 by siRNA sensitized the PMBL cells to the effects of R-CHOP components in two of three PMBL cell lines. In one cell line, MedB-1, which is marked by less expression of BCL6 and mutated STAT6, the knock-down of BCL6 / STAT6 did not enhance the efficiency of Doxorubicin, Rituximab, and Vincristin. Thus, the targeting of BCL6 and STAT6 in addition or prior to the treatment with components of the current immuno-chemotherapy may sensitize the PMBL tumor cells for drug effects, at least in parts of PMBL cases.
Database replication techniques: a three parameter classification

Data replication is an increasingly important topic as databases are more and more deployed over clusters of workstations. One of the challenges in database replication is to introduce replication without severely affecting performance. Because of this difficulty, current database products use lazy replication, which is very efficient but can compromise consistency. As an alternative, eager replication guarantees consistency but most existing protocols have a prohibitive cost. In order to clarify the current state of the art and open up new avenues for research, this paper analyses existing eager techniques using three key parameters (server architecture, server interaction and transaction termination). In our analysis, we distinguish eight classes of eager replication protocols and, for each category, discuss its requirements, capabilities and cost. The contribution lies in showing when eager replication is feasible and in spelling out the different aspects a database replication protocol must account for.
Search and index in locality-based clustering overlay

A locality-based clustering peer-to-peer overlay networks (LCO) architecture is introduced in this paper. LCO differs from the pure unstructured P2P networks such as Gnutella in two key aspects. First, LCO partitions peers into clusters such that peers belonging to the same cluster are relatively close to one another in terms of network latency. Multiple floods are initiated for one query, with the character that each flood is restricted within one cluster, hence reducing the unnecessary traffic produced by the topology mismatching between the P2P logical overlay network and the physical underlying network. Second, an efficient inter-cluster index scheme is used in LCO such that the search scope can be retained even though only a few clusters are directly probed. Our simulation results indicate that LCO is efficient in both resource usage and data retrieval.
Industrial R&D project portfolio selection method using a multi-objective optimization program: A conceptual quantitative framework

Design/methodology/approach: Research and development (R&D) activities are crucial if companies are to adapt to technology changes, but budget constraints and limited resources often force companies to select a subset of candidate projects through portfolio selection techniques. However, existing models for R&D portfolio selection do not adequately consider interdependencies and types of projects, and this can lead to suboptimal selection and misalignment with corporate objectives.Findings: A Multi-Objective Optimisation Program (MOOP) is suggested transcending from classic manpower, time and financial planning into addition of strategic, skills and commercial objectives. A Pareto front is used as validation mechanism.Research limitations/implications: Project selection processes are widened with select and critical quantitative positions. Potentials remain in areas of team capability, corporate capabilities, deeper skill understanding, and stakeholder engagement.Practical implications: A quantitative validation is often overlooked in PPM project selection over more qualitative or idiosyncratic selection methods.Originality/value: A quantitative validation is often overlooked in PPM project selection over more qualitative or idiosyncratic selection methods.
Comparison of Two Transition Models Modified for Low Free-Stream Turbulence

The contribution deals with numerical simulations of the laminar/turbulent transition in two-dimensional flows at relatively low free-stream turbulence by means of two transition models - the algebraic transition model coupled with the EARSM turbulence model and the three-equation k-kL-ωmodel. Further, the relation between the free-stream turbulence and the maximum amplification factor necessary for the use of the eN method was adjusted using the XFOIL code. The both modified transition models were verified by means of flows on the flat plate and around airfoils with the transition in attached and separated flows. The eN method was used for the comparison. All tested modifications of transition models give an acceptable agreement with the experimental results.
Fast cross-validation of kernel Fisher discriminant classifiers

Given n training examples, the training of a kernel Fisher discriminant (KFD) classifier corresponds to solving a linear system of dimension n. In cross-validating KFD, the training examples are split into 2 distinct subsets for a number of times (L) wherein a subset of m examples is used for validation and the other subset of (n - m) examples is used for training the classifier. In this case L linear systems of dimension (n - m) need to be solved. We propose a novel method for cross-validation of KFD in which instead of solving L linear systems of dimension (n - m), we compute the inverse of an n /spl times/ n matrix and solve L linear systems of dimension 2m, thereby reducing the complexity when L is large and/or m is small. For typical 10-fold and leave-one-out cross-validations, the proposed algorithm is approximately 4 and ( 4/9 n ) times respectively as efficient as the naive implementations. Simulations are provided to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed algorithms.
Healthy Nordic diet downregulates the expression of genes involved in inflammation in subcutaneous adipose tissue in individuals with features of the metabolic syndrome.

BACKGROUND Previously, a healthy Nordic diet (ND) has been shown to have beneficial health effects close to those of Mediterranean diets. OBJECTIVE The objective was to explore whether the ND has an impact on gene expression in abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and whether changes in gene expression are associated with clinical and biochemical effects. DESIGN Obese adults with features of the metabolic syndrome underwent an 18- to 24-wk randomized intervention study comparing the ND with the control diet (CD) (the SYSDIET study, carried out within Nordic Centre of Excellence of the Systems Biology in Controlled Dietary Interventions and Cohort Studies). The present study included participants from 3 Nordic SYSDIET centers [Kuopio (n = 20), Lund (n = 18), and Oulu (n = 18)] with a maximum weight change of ±4 kg, highly sensitive C-reactive protein concentration <10 mg/L at the beginning and the end of the intervention, and baseline body mass index (in kg/m²) <38. SAT biopsy specimens were obtained before and after the intervention and subjected to global transcriptome analysis with Gene 1.1 ST Arrays (Affymetrix). RESULTS Altogether, 128 genes were differentially expressed in SAT between the ND and CD (nominal P < 0.01; false discovery rate, 25%). These genes were overrepresented in pathways related to immune response (adjusted P = 0.0076), resulting mainly from slightly decreased expression in the ND and increased expression in the CD. Immune-related pathways included leukocyte trafficking and macrophage recruitment (e.g., interferon regulatory factor 1, CD97), adaptive immune response (interleukin32, interleukin 6 receptor), and reactive oxygen species (neutrophil cytosolic factor 1). Interestingly, the regulatory region of the 128 genes was overrepresented for binding sites for the nuclear transcription factor κB. CONCLUSION A healthy Nordic diet reduces inflammatory gene expression in SAT compared with a control diet independently of body weight change in individuals with features of the metabolic syndrome.
Immunologic Aspects in Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva

Background: Inflammation is a major driver of heterotopic ossification (HO), a condition of abnormal bone growth in a site that is not normally mineralized. Purpose of review: This review will examine recent findings on the roles of inflammation and the immune system in fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP). FOP is a genetic condition of aggressive and progressive HO formation. We also examine how inflammation may be a valuable target for the treatment of HO. Rationale/Recent findings: Multiple lines of evidence indicate a key role for the immune system in driving FOP pathogenesis. Critical cell types include macrophages, mast cells, and adaptive immune cells, working through hypoxia signaling pathways, stem cell differentiation signaling pathways, vascular regulatory pathways, and inflammatory cytokines. In addition, recent clinical reports suggest a potential role for immune modulators in the management of FOP. Future perspectives: The central role of inflammatory mediators in HO suggests that the immune system may be a common target for blocking HO in both FOP and non-genetic forms of HO. Future research focusing on the identification of novel inflammatory targets will help support the testing of potential therapies for FOP and other related conditions.
To Evaluate the Efficacy of Internet De-addiction Programme on Perceived Stress and Autonomic Functions in Young Adults

Internet addiction is characterized by excessive or poorly controlled preoccupations, urges or behaviors regarding computer use and internet access that lead to impairment or distress. The present study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of internet de-addiction programme on stress and autonomic functions in young adults. 500 young adults (age group 18-35 years), using smartphones and other gadget frequently were asked to answer Kimberley Young’s Internet addiction test (IAT) questionnaire. As per their responses 31 moderates to severely addicted to internet addiction (IAT score 64.51 ± 16.94) were motivated to participate in a comprehensive internet de-addiction programme, based on repeated sessions of psychological counselling and behavioral therapy as advised by an expert clinical Psychologist. Baseline and follow up (after 6 weeks) recording of Heart rate, Blood pressure, Perceived stress scale, IAT, Autonomic functions based on frequency domain HRV were done. There was significant increase in total power of HRV whereas significant reduction in LF/HF ratio, Perceived stress scores (PSS), Internet addiction scores and average daily mobile usage time after 6 weeks of follow up. It can be concluded from this study that after six weeks of comprehensive sessions based on cognitive behaviour therapy and guiding for self-help approach there were significant decrease in the total daily mobile usages time, internet addiction score, perceived stress score and also simultaneous improvement in symptho-vagal tone and overall autonomic health of participants.
Quasisymmetric and unipotent tensor categories

We classify braided tensor categories over C of exponential growth which are quasisymmetric, i.e., the squared braiding is the identity on the product of any two simple objects. This generalizes the classification results of Deligne on symmetric categories of exponential growth, and of Drinfeld on quasitriangular quasi-Hopf algebras. In particular, we classify braided categories of exponential growth which are unipotent, i.e., those whose only simple object is the unit object. We also classify fiber functors on such categories. Finally, using the Etingof-Kazhdan quantization theory of Poisson algebraic groups, we give a classification of coconnected Hopf algebras, i.e. of unipotent categories of exponential growth with a fiber functor.
Adaptive NN control of strict-feedback systems using ISS-modular approach

In this paper, adaptive neural network control is investigated for a general class of strict-feedback systems using "ISS-modular" approach. The closed-loop system consists of two interconnected subsystems: the state error subsystem and the weight estimation subsystem. First, a neural controller is designed to achieve ISS for the state error subsystem with respect to the neural weight estimation errors. Then, a neural weight estimator is designed to achieve ISS for the weight estimation subsystem with respect to the system state errors. Finally, the stability of the entire closed-loop system is guaranteed by the small-gain theorem. The "ISS-modular" approach avoids the construction of an overall Lyapunov function for the closed- loop system, and overcomes the controller singularity problem completely. The simulation studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control method.