Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Continuous anti-angiogenic therapy after tumor progression in patients with recurrent high-grade epithelial ovarian cancer: phase I trial experience

High-grade epithelial ovarian cancer (HG-EOC) is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy worldwide Once patients develop chemoresistance, effective novel strategies are required to improve prognosis We analyzed characteristics and outcomes of 242 consecutive patients with HG-EOC participating in 94 phase I clinical trials at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Baseline lactate dehydrogenase levels, albumin levels, and number of metastatic sites were independent predictors of overall survival (OS). Receiving more than 1 phase I protocol was associated with improved OS (p < 0.001). Regimens including a chemotherapeutic agent plus bevacizumab or Aurora A kinase inhibitor led to a median progression-free survival (PFS) duration of more than 6 months. Although patients receiving bevacizumab-based regimens in the phase I clinical trials had significantly longer PFS than those receiving other anti-angiogenic therapies (p = 0.017), patients treated with vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (VEGFR-TKIs) had significantly longer OS (12.2 months) than those not treated with VEGFR-TKIs (8.6 months, p = 0.015). In conclusion, anti-angiogenic therapy is one of the most important strategies for the treatment of HG-EOC, even in those who have already experienced tumor progression. Therefore, eligible patients with HG-EOC should be encouraged to participate in novel phase I studies of anti-angiogenic therapies, even after disease progression.
Performance evaluation of frequency planning and scheduling schemes in oFDMA Networks

In this paper, we evaluate the intercell-interference coordination (ICIC) performances of frequency planning schemes in OFDMA cellular networks. In particular, universal frequency reuse (reuse-1), reuse-3, strict fractional frequency reuse (FFR) and soft frequency reuse (SFR) performances are evaluated. The performances of these frequency planning schemes are compared under different resource scheduling strategies via simulations to also measure the performance of each scheduler. Based on the simulation results, design trade-offs are outlined for ICIC techniques to be used in OFDMA networks.
Improving local stereo algorithms using binary shifted windows, fusion and smoothness constraint

Stereo cameras are a viable solution for reconstructing 3D scenes and are well suited for advanced driver assistance systems, autonomous driving and robotics applications. Modern stereo reconstruction algorithms offer good results, but require very much memory and their real time capabilities are limited on modern day processors. On the other hand, local window aggregation algorithms have a small memory footprint, they are very fast and can be ported to embedded devices, although they provide a lower number of 3D reconstructed points and are more error prone in the case of occluded and slanted surfaces. In this paper we propose a novel, local block matching method which has increased quality and is suitable for real time processing with hardware acceleration (satisfying running time). Our first contribution consists in the introduction of two new binary descriptors used for block matching. The second contribution lies in the shifting method implemented for the matching windows, in order to capture surfaces which are slanted, together with the fusion of the results obtained for fronto-parallel surfaces. Here we propose and compare two fusion methods: a naive and a gradient based approach. The final contribution consists in a smoothness constraint applied to neighboring pixels. The results have been tested on images from the Middlebury benchmark and also on real traffic scene.
Insight into others’ minds: spatio-temporal representations by intrinsic frame of reference

Recent research has seen a growing interest in connections between domains of spatial and social cognition. Much evidence indicates that processes of representing space in distinct frames of reference (FOR) contribute to basic spatial abilities as well as sophisticated social abilities such as tracking other’s intention and belief. Argument remains, however, that belief reasoning in social domain requires an innately dedicated system and cannot be reduced to low-level encoding of spatial relationships. Here we offer an integrated account advocating the critical roles of spatial representations in intrinsic frame of reference. By re-examining the results from a spatial task (Tamborello etal., 2012) and a false-belief task (Onishi and Baillargeon, 2005), we argue that spatial and social abilities share a common origin at the level of spatio-temporal association and predictive learning, where multiple FOR-based representations provide the basic building blocks for efficient and flexible partitioning of the environmental statistics. We also discuss neuroscience evidence supporting these mechanisms. We conclude that FOR-based representations may bridge the conceptual as well as the implementation gaps between the burgeoning fields of social and spatial cognition.
Resolution of apoptosis in atherosclerotic plaque by dietary modification and statin therapy.

UNLABELLED Although apoptosis within atherosclerotic plaques is associated with plaque vulnerability and rupture, the role of inhibition of the apoptotic process is not clear. We evaluated the impact of dietary modification and statin therapy (measures known to favorably influence outcomes in coronary disease) on the incidence of apoptosis in experimental atherosclerotic lesions. METHODS A total of 30 animals were studied; 1 group of 6 animals served as the controls (group 1), and the remaining 24 animals were subjected to balloon de-endothelialization of the abdominal aorta and a high-cholesterol diet. These atherosclerotic animals were randomized as follows: high-cholesterol diet for 4 mo (n=6; untreated atherosclerotic group [group 2]), high-cholesterol diet for 3 mo and normal chow diet for 1 mo (n=6; diet withdrawal group [group 3]), and high-cholesterol diet for 4 mo and simvastatin orally every day of the last month (n=6; statin therapy group [group 4]). 99mTc-Annexin A5 was used for noninvasive detection of apoptosis in groups 1-4. The remaining 6 rabbits on a high-cholesterol diet for 4 mo were studied with radiolabeled mutant annexin A5 (n=6; nonspecific control group [group 5]). Quantitative annexin A5 uptake in the abdominal aorta was determined and compared with the histologic and immunohistochemical characteristics of the atherosclerotic lesions. RESULTS Maximum annexin A5 uptake (mean+/-SD, 0.051+/-0.009 percentage injected dose per gram [%ID/g] of tissue) was observed in the untreated atherosclerotic animals. The uptake was substantially reduced in the diet withdrawal (0.03+/-0.006%ID/g; P<0.0001) and statin therapy (0.03+/-0.006%ID/g; P<0.0001) groups. The plaques in the untreated high-cholesterol group demonstrated advanced atherosclerotic lesions. On the other hand, the diet withdrawal and statin therapy groups showed histologic characteristics of stabilization, including the resolution of macrophage infiltration and an increase in smooth muscle cell content. There was a marked reduction in the apoptosis of macrophages. No significant uptake of annexin A5 or mutant annexin A5 was seen in rabbits on the normal chow diet or atherosclerotic rabbits, respectively. CONCLUSION Dietary modification and statin therapy in atherosclerosis lead to a reduction in apoptosis and contribute to plaque stabilization. It can be hypothesized that a reduction in apoptosis is a favorable process in atherosclerotic disease.
Automatic Reconstruction of Wide-Area Fiducial Marker Models

We present an approach towards automatic reconstruction of large assemblies of fiducial markers scattered throughout a wide indoor area, using a computer vision based reconstruction approach. The data is acquired from a video stream captured with a monoscopic camera. The system is capable of creating markers models that are significantly larger in physical area and number of markers than with previous approaches.
Differences in Walking Pattern during 6-Min Walk Test between Patients with COPD and Healthy Subjects

Background To date, detailed analyses of walking patterns using accelerometers during the 6-min walk test (6MWT) have not been performed in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Therefore, it remains unclear whether and to what extent COPD patients have an altered walking pattern during the 6MWT compared to healthy elderly subjects. Methodology/Principal Findings 79 COPD patients and 24 healthy elderly subjects performed the 6MWT wearing an accelerometer attached to the trunk. The accelerometer features (walking intensity, cadence, and walking variability) and subject characteristics were assessed and compared between groups. Moreover, associations were sought with 6-min walk distance (6MWD) using multiple ordinary least squares (OLS) regression models. COPD patients walked with a significantly lower walking intensity, lower cadence and increased walking variability compared to healthy subjects. Walking intensity and height were the only two significant determinants of 6MWD in healthy subjects, explaining 85% of the variance in 6MWD. In COPD patients also age, cadence, walking variability measures and their interactions were included were significant determinants of 6MWD (total variance in 6MWD explained: 88%). Conclusions/Significance COPD patients have an altered walking pattern during 6MWT compared to healthy subjects. These differences in walking pattern partially explain the lower 6MWD in patients with COPD.
Drosophila Torsin Protein Regulates Motor Control and Stress Sensitivity and Forms a Complex with Fragile-X Mental Retardation Protein

We investigated unknown in vivo functions of Torsin by using Drosophila as a model. Downregulation of Drosophila Torsin (DTor) by DTor-specific inhibitory double-stranded RNA (RNAi) induced abnormal locomotor behavior and increased susceptibility to H2O2. In addition, altered expression of DTor significantly increased the numbers of synaptic boutons. One important biochemical consequence of DTor-RNAi expression in fly brains was upregulation of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH). Altered expression of ADH has also been reported in Drosophila Fragile-X mental retardation protein (DFMRP) mutant flies. Interestingly, expression of DFMRP was altered in DTor mutant flies, and DTor and DFMRP were present in the same protein complexes. In addition, DTor and DFMRP immunoreactivities were partially colocalized in several cellular organelles in larval muscles. Furthermore, there were no significant differences between synaptic morphologies of dfmrp null mutants and dfmrp mutants expressing DTor-RNAi. Taken together, our evidences suggested that DTor and DFMRP might be present in the same signaling pathway regulating synaptic plasticity. In addition, we also found that human Torsin1A and human FMRP were present in the same protein complexes, suggesting that this phenomenon is evolutionarily conserved.
Bayes' Theorem to estimate population prevalence from Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) scores

Aim The aim in this methodological paper is to demonstrate, using Bayes' Theorem, an approach to estimating the difference in prevalence of a disorder in two groups whose test scores are obtained, illustrated with data from a college student trial where 12-month outcomes are reported for the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). Method Using known population prevalence as a background probability and diagnostic accuracy information for the AUDIT scale, we calculated the post-test probability of alcohol abuse or dependence for study participants. The difference in post-test probability between the study intervention and control groups indicates the effectiveness of the intervention to reduce alcohol use disorder rates. Findings In the illustrative analysis, at 12-month follow-up there was a mean AUDIT score difference of 2.2 points between the intervention and control groups: an effect size of unclear policy relevance. Using Bayes' Theorem, the post-test probability mean difference between the two groups was 9% (95% confidence interval 3–14%). Interpreted as a prevalence reduction, this is evaluated more easily by policy makers and clinicians. Conclusion Important information on the probable differences in real world prevalence and impact of prevention and treatment programmes can be produced by applying Bayes' Theorem to studies where diagnostic outcome measures are used. However, the usefulness of this approach relies upon good information on the accuracy of such diagnostic measures for target conditions.
Creating hybrid software engineering methods by means of metamodels

Two dominant techniques for software development used nowadays are the classical software development methods (e.g. RUP, waterfall) and the agile approaches (e.g. Scrum, XP). One can also use hybrid methods, because both approaches have some benefits. In this paper we show how to build new hybrid software engineering methods by means of metamodels. We describe metamodels of the classical waterfall method and extreme programming and create their common metamodel. This common metamodel is then used as a foundation for new hybrid method development and development of workflow of its implementation.
Evaluation of statistical methods for a 4 period 2 treatment crossover migrane headache trial with specific attention to alternative models for categorical data and carryover effects

RANDY L. DAVIS Evaluation of Statistical Methods for a 4 Period 2 Treatment Crossover Migraine Headache Trial with Specific Attention to Alternative Models for Categorical Data and Carryover Effects (Under the direction of GARY G. KOCH) Migraine headaches are estimated to affect 9-16% of the world's population, clearly representing a major health problem. A substantial portion of the health care costs in this country as well as a reduction in productivity in the work place are due to migraines. In order to evaluate potential compounds to treat this condition without introducing unacceptable risks, well designed trials must be conducted to assess the efficacy and safety. Clinical development of the compound could be flawed because clinical trials are not properly designed and conducted, or statistical analyses and interpretation of results are inadequate. This research explored standard and alternative methods for comparing an active treatment and placebo in a multi-period crossover migraine trial where the response variable is categorical. The primary objective was to demonstrate how these methods can be used to address statistical issues centering around estimating treatment, period, and different types of carryover effects. Carryover effects are of great interest because the presence of carryover effects complicates the statistical analysis or reduces its power in certain
The investigation on the effect of feature vector dimension for spam email detection with a new framework

In this study, the effect of dimension for a feature vector on the classification of Turkish e-mails as spam or legitimate is investigated. Although hundreds of experimental studies are achieved especially for English, which is a non-agglutinative language, the number of efforts for Turkish, which is one of the most popular agglutinative languages in the world, is counted something on the fingers of one hand. Therefore, a solution is sought for Turkish spam e-mail problem taking the special characteristics of Turkish e-mails into consideration. The developed spam filtering framework has four components named as morphological decomposition, feature selection, training, and test phases. A fixed-prefix stemming approach is used to extract the features of an e-mail and then the Mutual Information (MI) method is carried out as the feature selection method. The Decision Tree (DT) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) classifiers are employed and the recognition accuracies obtained from these methods are considerably satisfactory. The highest accuracy rates are 91.08% for ANN and 87.67% for DT methods when the dimensions of feature vectors are selected as 150×5) and (75×5), respectively.
Robust model for speaker verification against session-dependent utterance variation

This paper investigates a new method for creating speaker models that are robust against utterance variation in continuous distribution hidden Markov model-based speaker verification. In this method, the distribution of the session-independent features for each speaker is estimated by separately modeling the session-to-session utterance variation as two distinct variations: one session-dependent and the other session-independent. In practice, joint normalization of the session-dependent utterance variation and estimation of the parameters of speaker models is performed based on a speaker adaptive training algorithm. The resulting speaker models more accurately represent session-independent speaker characteristics, and the discriminatory capabilities of these models increases. In text-independent speaker verification experiments using data uttered by 20 speakers in 7 sessions over 16 months, we show that the proposed method achieves a 15% reduction in the error rate.
Cabozantinib Inhibits Abiraterone's Upregulation of IGFIR Phosphorylation and Enhances Its Anti–Prostate Cancer Activity

Purpose: Abiraterone improves the overall survival of men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. However, de novo or adaptive resistance to abiraterone limits its activity. Rational combinations of drugs with different mechanisms of action that overcome resistance mechanisms may improve the efficacy of therapy. To that end, we studied the molecular and phenotypic effects of the combination of cabozantinib plus abiraterone. Experimental Design: Three prostate cancer cell lines were used to interrogate the in vitro molecular and antiproliferative effects of the single agents and combination of cabozantinib and abiraterone. The in vivo impact of the combination was assessed using the LAPC4-CR xenograft mouse model. Results: In vitro proliferation studies demonstrated single-agent doses between 2 μmol/L and 10 μmol/L for abiraterone and cabozantinib inhibit prostate cancer cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner, and the anticancer activity of abiraterone is enhanced when combined with cabozantinib. In vivo LAPC4-CR xenograft mouse studies also showed that cabozantinib can improve the antitumor activity of abiraterone. Cabozantinib, a multiple receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, enhances the ability of abiraterone to inhibit AR activity in a cell line–dependent manner. In addition, our cell line studies demonstrate abiraterone-stimulated insulin–like growth factor I receptor (IGFIR) phosphorylation with downstream activation of MEK1/2 and ERK1/2, and that this potential adaptive resistance mechanism was inhibited by cabozantinib. Conclusions: Cabozantinib can enhance the efficacy of abiraterone by blocking multiple compensatory survival mechanisms, including IGFIR activation, and supports the assessment of the combination in a clinical trial. Clin Cancer Res; 21(24); 5578–87. ©2015 AACR.
On the Approximate Eigenstructure of Time-Varying Channels

In this article we consider the approximate description of doubly--dispersive channels by its symbol. We focus on channel operators with compactly supported spreading, which are widely used to represent fast fading multipath communication channels. The concept of approximate eigenstructure is introduced, which measures the accuracy E_p of the approximation of the channel operation as a pure multiplication in a given L_p-norm. Two variants of such an approximate Weyl symbol calculus are studied, which have important applications in several models for time--varying mobile channels. Typically, such channels have random spreading functions (inverse Weyl transform) defined on a common support U of finite non--zero size such that approximate eigenstructure has to be measured with respect to certain norms of the spreading process. We derive several explicit relations to the size |U| of the support. We show that the characterization of the ratio of E_p to some L_q-norm of the spreading function is related to weighted norms of ambiguity and Wigner functions. We present the connection to localization operators and give new bounds on the ability of localization of ambiguity functions and Wigner functions in U. Our analysis generalizes and improves recent results for the case p=2 and q=1.
Regulation of the ahpC Gene Encoding Alkyl Hydroperoxide Reductase in Mycobacterium smegmatis

The ahpC (MSMEG_4891) gene encodes alkyl hydroperoxide reductase C in Mycobacterium smegmatis mc2155 and its expression is induced under oxidative stress conditions. Two well-defined inverted repeat sequences (IR1 and IR2) were identified in the upstream region of ahpC. Using a crp (cAMP receptor protein: MSMEG_6189) mutant and in vitro DNA-binding assay, it was demonstrated that the IR1 sequence serves as a Crp-binding site and that Crp functions as an activator in the regulation of ahpC expression. The expression level of ahpC was shown to be proportional to intracellular cAMP levels. Intracellular levels of cAMP were increased in M. smegmatis, when it was treated with oxidative stress inducers. The IR2 sequence is very similar to the known consensus sequence of FurA-binding sites and involved in the negative regulation of ahpC expression. Taken together, these results suggest that the induction of ahpC expression under oxidative stress conditions probably results from a combinatory effect of both inactivation of FurA by oxidative stress and activation of Crp in response to increased levels of cAMP.
Facilitating Consistency Check between Specification and Implementation with MapReduce Framework

We often need well-formed specifications in order to properly maintain or extend a system by members who were not in charge of the original development. In contrast to our expectation, formal specifications and related documents may not be maintained, or not developed in real projects. We are trying to build a framework to develop specifications from a working implementation. Testability of specifications is important in our framework, and we develop executable, or testable, formal specifications in model-oriented formal specification languages such as VDM-SL. We figure out a formal specification, check it with the corresponding implementation by testing, and modify it if necessary. While the specific level of rigor depends on the aim of the project, millions of tests may be performed in developing highly reliable specifications. In this paper, we discuss our approach to reducing the cost of specification test. We use Hadoop, which is an implementation of the MapReduce framework, so that we can expect the scalability in testing specifications. We can automatically distribute the generation of test cases from a property, the interpretation of the executable specification and the execution of its corresponding implementation code for each test data using Hadoop. While straightforward sequential execution for large data set is expensive, we observed scalability in the performance in our approaches.