Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A genome-wide association study identifies WT1 variant with better response to 5-fluorouracil, pirarubicin and cyclophosphamide neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer patients

Breast cancer is believed to result from the interplay of genetic and non-genetic risk factors, and individual genetic variation may influence the efficacy of chemotherapy. Here we conducted a genome-wide association study to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with response to anthracycline- and taxane-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer patients. In the discovery stage, we divided 92 patients who received anthracycline-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy into 2 groups according to pathologic response and performed a genome-wide study using Affymetrix SNP6.0 genechip. Of 389,795 SNPs associated with pathologic complete response (pCR), we identified 2 SNPs, rs6044100 and rs1799937, that were significantly associated with pCR after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. In the validation stage, genotype analysis of samples from an independent cohort of 401 patients who received anthracycline-based neoadjuvant regimens and 467 patients who received taxane-based regimens was performed using sequencing analysis. We found that only SNP rs1799937, located in the WT1 gene, was associated with pCR after anthracycline-based neoadjuvant therapy (AA vs GG; odds ratio [OR], 2.81; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13–6.98; P < 0.05) but not after taxane-based neoadjuvant therapy (AA vs GG; OR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.36–2.04; P = 0.72). These results suggest that WT1 may be a potential target of anthracycline-based neoadjuvant therapy for breast cancer.
Synthesis of an unequally spaced array using DEGL algorithm

An unequally spaced linear array used in retrodirective array is proposed in this paper. The synthesis is carried out using Differential Evolution with Global and Local neighborhoods (DEGL) algorithm. A 16-element array with two layer antenna element is implemented to validate the numerical results. The simulation results show that the maximum sidelobe level is basically below −20 dB in the range of 4.4 GHz-5 GHz.
KARC: radio research

In the emerging markets for digital content distribution, traditional models for content programming still predominate. But there is a large potential for innovation and improvement in content selection to better meet consumers' demand for entertainment and news. We have developed a new paradigm and supporting technology to customize audience content to their specific preferences. One can identify several selection models for groups of individuals with similar interests in music, video, or other multimedia content to jointly customize a distribution channel. Our approach represents a balance between the two most widespread models available today, namely broadcasting and individual playback such as CD/DVD players. Using technologies such as data mining, multicasting and smart players, our model gives listeners access to automatic shared playlists. This kind of customized narrowcasting is especially applicable to distribution of content for which there is high demand for repeat listening or viewing, while at the same time being very idiosyncratic. Our approach can provide significant advantages to consumers, distribution channels, content owners and advertisers alike. We present the basic collaborative content programming algorithms and describe initial experiences with this new paradigm. Specifically, we describe KARC, a prototype of an Internet multichannel virtual radio station environment deployed at the IBM Almaden Research Center.
Detection of Anomaly Trends in Dynamically Evolving Systems

We propose a learning framework, which is based on diffusionmethodology, that performs data fusion and anomalydetection in multi-dimensional time series data. Real lifeapplications and processes usually contain a large numberof sensors that generate parameters (features), where eachsensor collects partial information about the running process.These input sensors are fused to describe the behaviorof the whole process. The proposed data fusing algorithmis done in an hierarchial fashion: first it re-scales the inputsensors. Then, the re-formulated inputs are fused togetherby the application of the diffusion maps to reveal the nonlinearrelationships among them. This process constructsby embedding a low-dimensional description of the system.The embedding separates between sensors (parameters) thatcause stable and instable behavior of the system.This unsupervised algorithm first studies the system’sprofile from a training dataset by reducing its dimensions.Then, the coordinates of newly arrived data points are determinedby the application of multi-scale Gaussian approximation.To achieve this, an hierarchial processing of theincoming data is introduced.
The Benefits of Creativity Support Systems for Entrepreneurs: An Exploratory Study

Successful start-ups require a range of organizational and systematic activities. Not only the acquisition and the successful use of resources play a decisive role in the success of a start-up, but also the development of a business idea. In this context, creativity is an essential part, and both creativity techniques and creativity support systems prove to be fundamental to the success in the initial phase of the start-up, as well as in the entire entrepreneurial process. In this paper, we present the results of an exploratory study with 105 entrepreneurs, to deeper understand the impact of creativity techniques and creativity supporting information technology. With a literature review and the results of our study, we furthermore highlight the importance of knowledge and teaching about creativity enhancing methods and the right application of creativity supporting IT. Additionally, we show the influence and environmental factors of creativity within the different stages of entrepreneurship.
Heterogeneity and chronology of 6q15 deletion and ERG-fusion in prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is notorious for its heterogeneity, which poses a problem for the applicability of diagnostic molecular markers. However, heterogeneity analysis can provide valuable information on the chronology in which molecular alterations arise. Here, we constructed a heterogeneity tissue microarray (TMA) comprising samples from 10 different tumor areas of 189 prostate cancers each in order to study the sequence of two frequent molecular alterations, i.e. 6q15 deletion and TMPRSS2:ERG fusion. Previous work shows a marked inverse relationship between these alterations, suggesting that presence of one of these alterations might impact development of the other. 6q15 deletion was analyzed by fluorescence in situ hybridization and ERG-expression by immunohistochemistry. Only 6.6% of 334 ERG-positive but 28.4% of 440 ERG-negative TMA spots showed 6q15 deletions (p < 0.0001). A breakdown of these data to the level of tumor foci revealed 6q deletions in 138 tumor foci that were large enough to have at least 3 analyzable TMA spots. These included 42 tumor foci with homogeneous ERG positivity and 16 with homogeneous 6q15 deletions. Remarkably, six of the 42 homogeneously ERG-positive tumor foci (14.3%) harbored small 6q15-deleted areas, but none of the 34 6q15-deleted foci showed areas of ERG positivity (p = 0.022). In conclusion, our data suggest that ERG-fusion can precede 6q15 deletion, but not vice versa. The complete absence of ERG-positive tumor areas in 6q15-deleted tumor foci further suggest that the functional consequences of 6q15 deletions may prevent the development of TMPRSS2:ERG fusions.
A new algorithm for minimizing convex functions over convex sets

An algorithm for minimizing a convex function over a convex set is given. The notion of a volumetric center of a polytope and a related ellipsoid of maximum volume inscribable in the polytope is central to the algorithm. The algorithm has a much better rate of global convergence than the ellipsoid algorithm. A by-product of the algorithm is an algorithm for solving linear programming problems that performs a total of O(mn/sup 2/L+M(n)nL) arithmetic operations in the worst case, where m is the number of constraints, n the number of variables, and L a certain parameter. This gives an improvement in the time complexity of linear programming for m>n/sup 2/. <<ETX>>
Trypanocidal and antifungal activities of p‐hydroxyacetophenone derivatives from Calea uniflora (Heliantheae, Asteraceae)

The dichloromethane extract of underground parts of Calea uniflora (Heliantheae, Asteraceae) exhibited trypanocidal and antifungal activities. Four p‐hydroxyacetophenone derivatives were isolated as the main compounds: 2‐senecioyl‐4‐(hydroxyethyl)‐phenol (1), 2‐senecioyl‐4‐(angeloyloxy‐ethyl)‐phenol (2), and two new derivatives, 2‐senecioyl‐4‐(methoxyethyl)‐phenol (3) and 2‐senecioyl‐4‐(pentadecanoyloxyethyl)‐phenol (4). 1 and 4 were active towards Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes, reducing their number by 70 and 71% at 500 μg mL−1, whereas 2 and 3 were inactive. All the compounds tested showed antifungal activity with minimal inhibitory concentration values between 500 and 1000 μg mL−1 against pathogenic Candida spp. and dermatophytes. The isolation, structure elucidation, NMR spectral assignments and bioactivity results of these compounds are reported.
Diagnostic Efficacy of Manual Liquid Based Cytology in Fine Needle Aspiration Samples

Introduction: Liquid based cytology (LBC) has played a pivotal role in exfoliative cytology. However it can be implemented in Fine needle aspiration (FNA) samples. Automated techniques have been widely used, but limited due to cost and availability. Aim: The objective of the study was to assess the diagnostic efficacy of Manual LBC in FNAC samples. Methods: In this prospective study, a total of 60 FNA samples from various anatomical sites were evaluated. Smears were made from conventional preparation (CP) and manual LBC (MLBC) preparation. Both CP and MLBC preparations were compared for cellularity, background, monolayers, cell architecture, cytoplasmic and nuclear details by a semiquantitative scoring system. P<0.005 was considered statistically significant. Results: Diagnostic accuracy was better in MLBC to CP in view of absence of blood and debris, presence of monolayers and preservation of nuclear and cytoplasmic details. However, with regard to cellularity, informative background and cell architecture there was no statistical significance. Conclusion: MLBC performed on FNA samples can be safe, cost effective promising diagnostic technique in combination with CP to achieve high diagnostic yield.
Magnetic domain state and coercivity predictions for biogenic greigite (Fe3S4): A comparison of theory with magnetosome observations

The discovery of bacteria that precipitate greigite within intracellular organelles (magnetosomes) offers new evidence about the origin of greigite in natural environments. Unlike magnetite, only scarce information is available about the magnetic characteristics of greigite. For this reason, and the present inability to grow these microorganisms in pure culture, it is not known whether or not the magnetosomes in the newly discovered greigite-precipitating bacteria are of single-domain (SD) size, as are the magnetosomes from magnetite-precipitating bacteria. The hypothesis of natural selection for magnetotactic behavior predicts that the greigite-bearing magnetosomes should also be single magnetic domains. Using previously reported magnetic properties and crystallographic features for greigite, we have calculated the size and shape boundaries expected for SD and superparamagnetic (SPM) behavior in this mineral. For further characterization of the greigite crystals, we analyzed the domain state at various length/width ratios assuming crystal shapes of parallelepipeds and prolate spheroids. Magnetite was used as control for the current theories supporting these calculations. We also present a simple algorithm to calculate the upper size limit of single-domain grains. Our results show that the crystals of bacterial greigite characterized so far are located in the region close to the single-domain superparamagnetic boundary and should have relatively low coercivity. If these crystals contribute to the magnetization of sediments, remanence produced by bacterial greigite could be mistaken for large, multidomain magnetite in alternating field demagnetization studies.
Analyzing geographic query reformulation: An exploratory study

Search engine users typically engage in multiquery sessions in their quest to fulfill their information needs. Despite a plethora of research findings suggesting that a significant group of users look for information within a specific geographical scope, existing reformulation studies lack a focused analysis of how users reformulate geographic queries. This study comprehensively investigates the ways in which users reformulate such needs in an attempt to fill this gap in the literature. Reformulated sessions were sampled from a query log of a major search engine to extract 2,400 entries that were manually inspected to filter geo sessions. This filter identified 471 search sessions that included geographical intent, and these sessions were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The results revealed that one in five of the users who reformulated their queries were looking for geographically related information. They reformulated their queries by changing the content of the query rather than the structure. Users were not following a unified sequence of modifications and instead performed a single reformulation action. However, in some cases it was possible to anticipate their next move. A number of tasks in geo modifications were identified, including standard, multi‐needs, multi‐places, and hybrid approaches. The research concludes that it is important to specialize query reformulation studies to focus on particular query types rather than generically analyzing them, as it is apparent that geographic queries have their special reformulation characteristics.
The Design and Function of the Intervalley Canal: Comments on a Paper by Ortloff, Moseley, and Feldman

Ortloff, Moseley, and Feldman fail to understand the basics of canal hydraulics and irrigation hydrology. They estimate nonpermissible velocities, calculate a critical state of flow, and assume a discharge without considering the field requirements. Their claim that tectonic movements caused canal abandonment is rejected. There is no geomorphological evidence for such events. Other research is described which indicates that the canal was designed with a stable channel and was intended to transport the required discharge to state fields. Its breakdown is attributed to the effect of a large discharge flowing down a steep slope.
Ajuste de modelo de análise de sobrevivência para dados de tuberculose do município de Patos de Minas - Minas Gerais

A tuberculose tem sido uma das doencas mais estudadas nos seus aspectos biologico, epidemiologico, diagnostico, terapeutico e profilatico. No entanto essa doenca teima em persistir, em nivel mundial, causando sofrimento humano e morte em pleno seculo XXI. Com isso ha a necessidade de estudos epidemiologicos associados a tecnicas estatisticas, como, a Analise de Sobrevivencia, que tem como objetivo estudar dados de experimentos em que a variavel resposta e, geralmente, o tempo ate a ocorrencia de um evento de interesse, sendo muito aplicada na area medica. Neste trabalho foi utilizado o modelo parametrico AFT para modelar o tempo ate a cura em funcao das covariaveis consideradas, determinando a distribuicao que melhor se ajusta aos dados, para analisar o efeito de covariaveis no tempo ate a ocorrencia de um dos eventos, morte por tuberculose ou cura em 437 pacientes detectados com tuberculose atendidos pela Secretaria Regional de Saude, da cidade de Patos de Minas - MG, no periodo de 2003 a 2012. Concluiu-se, em relacao a covariavel sexo, que um paciente do sexo feminino tem 109,38 a mais na probabilidade de cura que pacientes do sexo masculino. Os resultados sugerem ainda pacientes do municipio de Patos de Minas tem 259,18 a mais na probabilidade de cura que pacientes de outras regioes.
Expression of cyclooxygenase‐2, alpha 1‐acid‐glycoprotein and inducible nitric oxide synthase in the developing lesions of murine leprosy

Murine leprosy is a chronic disease of the mouse, the most popular animal model used in biomedical investigation, which is caused by Mycobacterium lepraemurium (MLM) whose characteristic lesion is the macrophage‐made granuloma. From onset to the end of the disease, the granuloma undergoes changes that gradually transform the environment into a more appropriate milieu for the growth of M. lepraemurium. The mechanisms that participate in the formation and maturation of the murine leprosy granulomas are not completely understood; however, microbial and host‐factors are believed to participate in their formation. In this study, we analysed the role of various pro‐inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory proteins in granulomas of murine leprosy after 21 weeks of infection. We assessed the expression of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), alpha acid‐glycoprotein (AGP), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) at sequential stages of infection. We also looked for the nitric‐oxide nitrosylation product, nitrotyrosine (NT) in the granulomatous lesions of murine leprosy. We found that a pro‐inflammatory environment predominates in the early granulomas while an anti‐inflammatory environment predominates in late granulomas. No obvious signs of bacillary destruction were observed during the entire period of infection, but nitrosylation products and cell alterations were observed in granulomas in the advanced stages of disease. The change from a pro‐inflammatory to an anti‐inflammatory environment, which is probably driven by the bacillus itself, results in a more conducive environment for both bacillus replication and the disease progression.
Comparative Evaluation of Water Recovery Test and Fluoroscopic Screening in Positioning a Nasogastric Tube during Gastric Secretory Studies

Acid secretion studies were carried out in 50 patients. Fluoroscopy or a modified water recovery test was used to position the nasogastric tube. For every patient each positioning procedure was used on one of two consecutive days, and acid output studies were performed. The tests were assessed by two observers and accepted or rejected. Analysis revealed no significant differences between the acid studies irrespective of the method used for positioning the nasogastric tube. Rejection rates by either procedure showed no significant difference. Practical considerations favour the continued use of water recovery as a means of positioning the nasogastric tube for gastric secretion studies.
Evaluating chemical dispersant efficacy in an experimental wave tank: 1. Dispersant effectiveness as a function of energy dissipation rate.

Abstract Numerous laboratory test systems have been developed for the comparison of efficacy between various chemical oil dispersant formulations. However, for the assessment of chemical dispersant effectiveness under realistic sea state, test protocols are required to produce hydrodynamic conditions close to the mixing, transport, and dilution effects found in the natural environment. To this end, we have designed and constructed an experimental wave tank system capable of generating waves of different energy levels, ranging from regular nonbreaking waves to plunging breakers. The hydrodynamics of these wave conditions were characterized using an autocorrelation function method applied to in situ velocity measurements. We report here an investigation of the effectiveness of two chemical dispersants (Corexit 9500 and SPC 1000) on two crude oils (weathered MESA and fresh ANS) under three different wave conditions in the wave tank operated in batch mode. Corexit 9500 dispersed approximately 75% of the weath.
FUZZY APPLICATIONS TO SINGLE MACHINE POWER SYSTEM STABILIZERS

Power system stabilizers (PSSs) are added to excitation system to enhance the damping during low frequency oscillations. This paper presents a study of fuzzy logic power system stabilizer (PSS) for stability enhancement of a single machine power system. In order to accomplish the stability enhancement, speed deviation (Δω) and acceleration (Δϖ) of the rotor of synchronous generator of Kota Thermal were taken as the input to the fuzzy logic controller. These variables take significant effects on damping on damping of the generator shaft mechanical oscillations. The stabilizing signals were computed using the fuzzy membership functions depending on these variables. The performance of the fuzzy PSS is compared with the conventional power system stabilizer (CPSS). The simulations were tested under different operating conditions and change in reference voltage also tested with different membership functions. The simulation results are quite encouraging and satisfactory
Automatic Construction of English-Vietnamese Parallel Corpus through Web Mining

Parallel corpus has become a very essential resource for multilingual natural language processing and there are large scale of parallel texts available on the Internet these days. In this paper, we propose a simple but reliable method to construct an English-Vietnamese parallel corpus through Web mining. Our system can automatically download and detect parallel Web pages on a given domain to construct a parallel corpus that is well-aligned at paragraph level with completely clean texts. The proposed technique can be easily applied to other language pairs. Experiments have been made and shown promising results.
The femC locus of Staphylococcus aureus required for methicillin resistance includes the glutamine synthetase operon

Tn551 insertional inactivation of femC is known to reduce methicillin resistance levels in methicillin-resistant and -susceptible Staphylococcus aureus. By use of cotransductional crosses, femC was mapped close to thrB on the SmaI-A fragment of the S. aureus NCTC 8325 chromosome. The Tn551 insertion femC::omega 2005 was found to interrupt an open reading frame coding for a putative protein of 121 amino acids which is highly similar to the glutamine synthetase repressors (GlnR) of Bacillus spp. Downstream of femC, an open reading frame highly similar to Bacillus sp. glutamine synthetases (GlnA) was found. Northern (RNA) blots probed with putative glnR or glnA fragments revealed that 1.7- and 1.9-kb transcripts characteristic of wild-type cells were replaced by less abundant 7.0- and 7.2-kb transcripts in the femC::omega 2005 mutant. Total glutamine synthetase activity was also decreased in the mutant strain; the addition of glutamine to defined media restored the wild-type methicillin resistance phenotype of the femC mutant. This result suggests that the omega 2005 insertion in glnR has a polar effect on glnA and that glnR and glnA are transcribed together as an operon. These results suggest that the loss of wild-type levels of glutamine synthetase and the consequent decrease in glutamine availability cause a decreased level of methicillin resistance.
AN INTEGRATED MICRO-NANOFLUIDIC SYSTEM FOR SAMPLE PREPARATION AND PRECONCENTRATION OF PROTEINS

In this study, an integrated micro-nanofluidic system for protein analysis was presented. The device is comprised of a micromixer and a preconcentrator with a separation column. The Integrated micromixer based on unbalanced split and cross collision of fluid streams is passive and planar, which is easy to fabricate and integrate to the microfluidic system. The preconcentrator has nanochannels formed by the electrical breakdown of PDMS membrane using high electric shock, without any nano-lithographic process. Micromixer and preconcentrator was used for sample preparation (tagging of protein for detection) and concentration of protein, consecutively. Proteins were electrokinetically trapped near the junction of micro/nanochannels.