Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Loop back connected component labeling algorithm and its implementation in detecting face

In this study, a Loop Back Algorithm for component connected labeling for detecting objects in a digital image is presented. The approach is using loop back connected component labeling algorithm that helps the system to distinguish the object detected according to their label. Deferent than whole window scanning technique, this technique reduces the searching time for locating the object by focusing on the suspected object based on certain features defined. In this study, the approach was also implemented for a face detection system. Face detection system is becoming interesting research since there are many devices or systems that require detecting the face for certain purposes. The input can be from still image or videos, therefore the sub process of this system has to be simple, efficient and accurate to give a good result.
Targeted Molecular Therapy of GBM

Major advances in molecular biology, cellular biology and genomics have substantially improved our understanding of cancer. Now, these advances are being translated into therapy. Targeted therapy directed at specific molecular alterations is already creating a shift in the treatment of cancer patients. Glioblastoma (GBM), the most common brain cancer of adults, is highly suited for this new approach. GBMs commonly overexpress the oncogenes EGFR and PDGFR, and contain mutations and deletions of tumor suppressor genes PTEN and TP53. Some of these alterations lead to activation of the PI3K/Akt and Ras/MAPK pathways, which provide targets for therapy. In this paper, we review the ways in which molecular therapies are being applied to GBM patients, and describe the tools of these approaches: pathway inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies and oncolytic viruses. We describe strategies to: i) target EGFR, its ligand‐independent variant EGFRvIII, and PDGFR on the cell surface, ii) inhibit constitutively activate RAS/MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways, iii) target TP53 mutant tumors, and iv) block GBM angiogenesis and invasion. These new approaches are likely to revolutionize the treatment of GBM patients. They will also present new challenges and opportunities for neuropathology.
Data-value Aware Cascading Time-out for Informnation Aggregation in WSN

Information aggregation in Wireless Sensor Networks provides for energy-efficiency for energy-constrained nodes to increase life-time of the network. This is achieved by processing data as it flows from information sources to sinks. The decision of when to "clock out" data as it is processed by nodes has significant performance impact in terms of energy-efficiency, data accuracy and freshness. Solis et al. have proposed `Cascading timeout' in [1]. In this paper, we propose cascading timeout that is aware of the value or significance of data to be sent. By simulation results we show that this scheme achieves energy efficiency while keeping data accuracy same.
Pinning Properties of Commercial Nb-Ti Wires Described by a 2-Components Model

We report on the magnetic and transport characterization of different NbTi commercial strands, carried out at variable temperature and magnetic field. From the critical current densities extracted from transport measurements and magnetization cycles we were able to calculate the normalized bulk pinning forces. The curves show good temperature scaling throughout the explored temperature range, and the reduced pinning force can be described by a simple two-components model system. The extension of the 2-components description of the pinning force to an expression for the critical current density gives a very good agreement with experimental measurements over the whole explored B, T range. The model works for all investigated samples, which are different in size, Cu:nonCu ratios, filament diameters and layouts. These results suggest that pinning mechanisms in conventional NbTi strands should be revised, since Nb-Ti composition gradients and grain boundaries seems to play a not negligible role.
Social Conduct, Learning and Innovation: An Abductive Study of the Dark Side of Agile Software Development

Agile methodologies have been adopted by an increasing number of organizations to improve their responsiveness. However, few studies have empirically analysed the effect of Agile on long-term organizational goals such as learning and innovation. Using an abductive approach, this study examines the relationships between self-regulated teams' social conduct and their resulting learning and innovation. Results indicate that the time pressure induced by the implementation of Agile impedes team engagement in learning and innovation activities. Time pressure is affected by a set of different control strategies, more specifically concertive, belief, diagnostic and boundary controls, and these need to be adequately addressed in order to minimize the potential dark side of Agile.
Identification of pink-pigmented bacteria isolated from environmental water samples and their biofilm formation abilities.

Sixty-seven strains of pink-pigmented bacteria, which were isolated from environmental water samples collected nationwide, were identified by partial 16S rDNA sequence analysis. In addition, the biofilm formation ability of the isolates was experimentally investigated. We could identify only 2 strains at the species level: Pedobacter roseus HS-38 and Runella slithyformis HS-77. The results showed that of the strains tested, 22 strains (32.8%) were Pedobacter spp. , which was most frequently identified, followed by 19 strains (28.4%) of Arcicella spp. , 16 strains (23.9%) of Deinococcus spp. , 5 strains (7.5%) of Roseomonas spp. , 4 strains (6.0%) of Flectobacillus spp. and 1 strain (1.5%) of Runella sp. Most isolates showed low similarity values to previously known species, and they were found to be novel species. At a result, it was difficult to identify environmental water-derived pink-pigmented bacteria at the species level. On the other hand, when we measured the absorbance by the crystal violet staining to examine the quantities of biofilm formation of these strains, fifty-five (82.0%) of the 67 isolates formed biofilm. The absorbance of Deinococcus sp. HS-75 was the highest (3.56). When comparing the absorbance values among the genera, Roseomonas spp. showed the highest absorbance (mean:1.62), followed by Deinococcus spp. (mean: 1.03), and Arcicella spp. (mean: 1.01). Strains of Flectobacillus spp. (mean: 0.48) and Pedobacter spp. (mean: 0.42) showed lower absorbance values. As above, it was shown that, at the species level, the pink-pigmented bacteria in the water in the Japanese environment had various levels of ability to form biofilm.
Use of a Novel Airway Kit and Simulation in Resident Training on Emergent Pediatric Airways

Objective Development of a novel pediatric airway kit and implementation with simulation to improve resident response to emergencies with the goal of improving patient safety. Methods Prospective study with 9 otolaryngology residents (postgraduate years 1-5) from our tertiary care institution. Nine simulated pediatric emergency airway drills were carried out with the existing system and a novel portable airway kit. Response times and time to successful airway control were noted with both the extant airway system and the new handheld kit. Results were analyzed to ensure parametric data and compared with t tests. A Bonferroni adjustment indicated that an alpha of 0.025 was needed for significance. Results Use of the airway kit significantly reduced the mean time of resident arrival by 47% (P = .013) and mean time of successful intubation by 50% (P = .007). Survey data indicated 100% improved resident comfort with emergent airway scenarios with use of the kit. Discussion Times to response and meaningful intervention were significantly reduced with implementation of the handheld airway kit. Use of simulation training to implement the new kit improved residents’ comfort and airway skills. This study describes an affordable novel mobile airway kit and demonstrates its ability to improve response times. Implications for Practice The low cost of this airway kit makes it a tenable option even for smaller hospitals. Simulation provides a safe and effective way to familiarize oneself with novel equipment, and, when possible, realistic emergent airway simulations should be used to improve provider performance.
Methods of predicting risk of flash floods

This article is focused on predicting the risk of flash floods which caused considerable material damage in the southeast part of Zlin Region dated August 5, 2016. Principle of forecasting of flash flood is described in the “Methodology for the use of meteorological radar of the Zlin Region for crisis management. ” The purpose of this methodology is to improve the possibilities of early warning of population and notification of crisis management in case of a potential or actual threat of flash floods in the Zlin region.
Molecular assays in breast cancer pathology

Recent advances in understanding the molecular pathology of breast cancer offer significant potential to identify patients who may benefit from adjuvant therapies. To date, few of these advances are utilised in a routine setting. We review molecular assays that are currently in use or are in the advanced stages of development, which may be used as predictive or prognostic biomarkers in breast cancer. The only widely used breast cancer molecular assay is in situ hybridisation (ISH) for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) gene amplification and we highlight key issues with the interpretation of this assay, with particular attention to the difficulties of the equivocal category. New molecular assays such as ISH for the topoisomerase II alpha (TOP2A) gene and for the aberrations in the copy number of the centromeric region of chromosome 17 are readily performed in a standard histopathology laboratory, but to date there are insufficient data to support their routine use. We also review the current data on two commercially available multigene expression assays, Oncotype DX and MammaPrint and discuss their potential use. Overall, while new molecular assays have significant potential to improve patient selection for therapy, well-performed histopathology with reliable interpretation of standard hormone and HER2 assays provides the most important predictive and prognostic information in early breast cancer.
Alanyl‐phosphatidylglycerol synthase: mechanism of substrate recognition during tRNA‐dependent lipid modification in Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Bacterial lipid homeostasis plays an important role for the adaptation to changing environments and under conditions of antimicrobial treatment. The tRNA‐dependent aminoacylation of the phospholipid phosphatidylglycerol catalysed by aminoacyl‐phosphatidylglycerol synthases was shown to render various organisms less susceptible to antibacterial agents. Therefore, this type of enzyme might provide a new target to potentiate the efficacy of existing antimicrobials. This study makes use of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa alanyl‐phosphatidylglycerol synthase to identify the minimal core domain of this transmembrane protein, which is capable of alanyl‐phosphatidylglycerol biosynthesis. Using this catalytic fragment we established a reliable activity assay that was used to study the enzymatic mechanism by analysing an overall of 33 mutant proteins in vitro. Substrate recognition was analysed by using aminoacylated microhelices as analogues of the natural tRNA substrate. The enzyme even tolerated mutated versions of this minimal substrate, which indicates that neither the intact tRNA, nor the individual sequence of the acceptor stem is a determinant for substrate recognition. Furthermore, the analysis of derivatives of phosphatidylglycerol indicated that the polar head group of the phospholipid is specifically recognized by the enzyme, whereas modification of an individual fatty acid or even the deletion of a single fatty acid did not abolish A‐PG synthesis.
Signal Transduction of ET-1 in Contraction of Cerebral Arteries

The signaling pathways of endothelin-1-induced contraction, including the role of protein tyrosine kinase (PTK), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), protein kinase C (PKC) and RhoA/Rho-kinase were studied using rabbit basilar arteries by isometric tension and Western blot. The following results were observed: (1) endothelin-1 produced phosphorylation of MAPK and RhoA and contraction by activation of endothelin-A but not endothelin-B receptors; (2) MAPK inhibitors, PD 98059 and U0126, PTK inhibitor, genistein, Src kinase inhibitor, damnacanthal, and Janus tyrosine kinase (JAK2) inhibitor, AG-490, abolished endothelin-1-induced contraction and MAPK immunoreactivity; (3) PTK inhibitor, staurosporine, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI- 3K) inhibitor wortmannin abolished endothelin-1 induced contraction but not MAPK immunoreactivity; (4) Rho-kinase inhibitor, Y-27632, reduced endothelin-1-induced contraction; (5) PI-3K inhibitor, wortmannin, but not PKC and PTK inhibitors, reduced endothelin-1-induced RhoA activation; (6) endothelin-1 increased the level of myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation, and Rho-kinase inhibitor, Y-27632, reduced the effect of endothelin- 1 on MLC phosphorylation. This study demonstrated that three signaling pathways Src-JAK2-PTK-MAPK, PI-3K-RhoA-Rhokinase- MLC and PKC all contribute to endothelin-1-induced contraction in the rabbit basilar artery. MAPK is downstream of PTK, Src and JAK pathways. PI-3 kinase and MLC might be the upstream and downstream factors of RhoA activation.
Expression robust 3D face recognition by matching multi-component local shape descriptors on the nasal and adjoining cheek regions

This paper proposes a novel local depth and surface normals descriptor to explore the discriminative features on the nasal surface and the adjoining cheek regions for expression robust 3D face recognition. After preprocessing the 3D face data, landmarks located on the perimeter of a triangular region covering the nose and adjoining parts of the cheeks are accurately detected. Inspired by Local Binary Patterns, local shape differences for 3D points on a set of horizontal curves joining selected landmarks provide a novel representation of the local shape information. A further analysis of the discriminatory power of each patch shows that the adjoining regions have the potential to produce good recognition performance. Using the FRGC and Bosphorus databases, the performance of the proposed descriptor is evaluated on diverse patches, scales and for four components, one from the depth and three from the surface normals. Results show that the new local shape descriptor performs well at representing the shape information on a relatively large scale. On the basis of this descriptor, a relatively small set of features extracted from the nasal and adjoining cheek regions produce a R1RR of 97.76% and an EER of 1.32%. The adjoining cheek regions demonstrate a high discriminatory power and provide a useful new addition to 3D face biometrics.
Future Monetary Policy Rules in Forward Guidance

US Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) projections for the federal funds rate are inherently subject to revision with the availability of new data. But when issued jointly with projections for macroeconomic aggregates, they also contain conditional information about the intended future policy reaction function. This paper develops a statistical framework for inferring implicit policy rules from this form of commitmentless forward guidance. Projections from 2012-2015 suggested a rule for 2016-2017 which meaningfully differs from that which characterized policymaking before the beginning of the zero lower bound environment in 2008.
Development of Artificial Neural Network Models to Assess Beer Acceptability Based on Sensory Properties Using a Robotic Pourer: A Comparative Model Approach to Achieve an Artificial Intelligence System

Artificial neural networks (ANN) have become popular for optimization and prediction of parameters in foods, beverages, agriculture and medicine. For brewing, they have been explored to develop rapid methods to assess product quality and acceptability. Different beers (N = 17) were analyzed in triplicates using a robotic pourer, RoboBEER (University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia), to assess 15 color and foam-related parameters using computer-vision. Those samples were tested using sensory analysis for acceptability of carbonation mouthfeel, bitterness, flavor and overall liking with 30 consumers using a 9-point hedonic scale. ANN models were developed using 17 different training algorithms with 15 color and foam-related parameters as inputs and liking of four descriptors obtained from consumers as targets. Each algorithm was tested using five, seven and ten neurons and compared to select the best model based on correlation coefficients, slope and performance (mean squared error (MSE). Bayesian Regularization algorithm with seven neurons presented the best correlation (R = 0.98) and highest performance (MSE = 0.03) with no overfitting. These models may be used as a cost-effective method for fast-screening of beers during processing to assess acceptability more efficiently. The use of RoboBEER, computer-vision algorithms and ANN will allow the implementation of an artificial intelligence system for the brewing industry to assess its effectiveness.
Smart grids deployments within EU projects: The role of smart meters

There is a large number of European Union (EU) projects that deal with Smart Grids research and deployment. Overall, they provide a substantial amount of knowledge that can be mined to gain useful insights for future projects and on-going roll-outs of Smart Grid related utilities. In the current paper, we focus on Smart Meters and we evaluate different communication-related architectural styles within an Advanced Metering infrastructure (AMI). In particular, we derive from the Joint Research Centre (JRC) Smart Grids projects review three different layouts for Smart Meters two-way communication: i) mobile Peer-to-Peer (P2P), ii) data concentrator-supported, and iii) gateway-supported. After the discussion about the architectural styles, we look at how common such choices are within EU projects deployments. Overall, we found predominance of both gateway / data concentrator architectures over P2P mobile communication layouts. The main outcome of the paper is a mapping of the three architectural styles to the deployments within the selected EU projects. Based on the map, we debate about the implications of such deployments within the current and future Smart Grids context.
CD137 Induces Proliferation of Murine Hematopoietic Progenitor Cells and Differentiation to Macrophages1

CD137 is a member of the TNFR family, and reverse signaling through the CD137 ligand, which is expressed as a cell surface transmembrane protein, costimulates or activates APCs. CD137 and CD137 ligand are expressed on small subsets of bone marrow cells. Activation of bone marrow cells through CD137 ligand induces proliferation, colony formation and an increase in cell numbers. Compared with total bone marrow cells, the small subpopulation of progenitor cells that express no lineage markers but express CD117 cells (or Lin−, CD117+ cells) responds with the same activities to CD137 ligand signaling, but at a significantly enhanced rate. Concomitantly to proliferation, the cells differentiate to CFU granulocyte-macrophage and CFU macrophage, and then to monocytes and macrophages but not to granulocytes or dendritic cells. Hematopoietic progenitor cells differentiated in the presence of CD137 protein display enhanced phagocytic activity, secrete high levels of IL-10 but little IL-12 in response to LPS, and are incapable of stimulating T cell proliferation. These data demonstrate that reverse CD137 ligand signaling takes place in hematopoietic progenitor cells, in which it induces proliferation, an increase in cell numbers, colony formation, and differentiation toward monocytes and macrophages.
The short-term outcome of hypoglycemic diabetic patients who refuse ambulance transport after out-of-hospital therapy.

OBJECTIVE To determine the short-term medical outcome of hypoglycemic insulin-dependent diabetic patients who refuse transport after out-of-hospital therapy and return to baseline mental status. METHODS Prospective, descriptive, short-term medical outcome data for adult patients were collected between May 1996 and December 1996. Paramedics responding to the aid of hypoglycemic insulin-dependent diabetic patients who refused transport after administration of dextrose solution (D50W) contacted a medical command physician at the University of Pennsylvania. The patients' medical histories, names, addresses, and telephone numbers were recorded. Three days after their hypoglycemic episodes, these patients were contacted by telephone by a registered nurse to determine their medical conditions. RESULTS Of 132 patients enrolled in the study, 103 (78%) could be contacted by telephone follow-up. Ninety-four (91%) of these patients had no recurrence of symptoms. Nine patients (9%) had recurrence of hypoglycemia and recontacted 911. Eight of these (8%) were transported to a hospital via ambulance and 3 (3%) were admitted, 1 (1%) for a cancer-related illness and 2 (2%) for hypoglycemia, 1 of whom died (1%). The remaining patient refused transport a second time after being treated, despite having the risks of refusal explained to him by a medical command physician. CONCLUSIONS The practice of treating and releasing most hypoglycemic insulin-dependent diabetic patients who return to normal mental status after D50W administration appears in general to be safe. Patients should be advised of the risks of recurrent hypoglycemia.
Neural stem/progenitor cells are activated during tail regeneration in the leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius)

As for many lizards, the leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius) can self‐detach its tail to avoid predation and then regenerate a replacement. The replacement tail includes a regenerated spinal cord with a simple morphology: an ependymal layer surrounded by nerve tracts. We hypothesized that cells within the ependymal layer of the original spinal cord include populations of neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) that contribute to the regenerated spinal cord. Prior to tail loss, we performed a bromodeoxyuridine pulse‐chase experiment and found that a subset of ependymal layer cells (ELCs) were label‐retaining after a 140‐day chase period. Next, we conducted a detailed spatiotemporal characterization of these cells before, during, and after tail regeneration. Our findings show that SOX2, a hallmark protein of NSPCs, is constitutively expressed by virtually all ELCs before, during, and after regeneration. We also found that during regeneration, ELCs express an expanded panel of NSPC and lineage‐restricted progenitor cell markers, including MSI‐1, SOX9, and TUJ1. Using electron microscopy, we determined that multiciliated, uniciliated, and biciliated cells are present, although the latter was only observed in regenerated spinal cords. Our results demonstrate that cells within the ependymal layer of the original, regenerating and fully regenerate spinal cord represent a heterogeneous population. These include radial glia comparable to Type E and Type B cells, and a neuronal‐like population of cerebrospinal fluid‐contacting cells. We propose that spinal cord regeneration in geckos represents a truncation of the restorative trajectory observed in some urodeles and teleosts, resulting in the formation of a structurally distinct replacement.