Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Molecular Docking Analysis of Bacoside A with Selected Signalling Factors Involved in Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma is the malignant tumor affecting the central nervous system. Despite the advancement in treatment modalities, presence of blood-brain barrier, recurrence after surgical removal, resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy remain the major obstacles for long term survival of the patients. In this context, finding suitable therapeutics which have anticancer potential and are nontoxic might be useful to improve the overall survival of GBM. Plant products are safer, nontoxic and cheaper when compared to the chemotherapeutic drugs in trend which are expensive and highly toxic, owing to their systemic effects. Bacoside A (BA) is one such plant constituent isolated from Bacopa monnieri which offers neuroprotection and possesses anticancer potential. The present investigation elucidates the specific interaction of BA with various cell surface receptors, signal transduction proteins, effector proteins and transcription factors involved in glioblastoma signalling such as EGFR/Ras/Raf/MAPK pathway, Notch signalling and Wnt-beta catenin signalling through molecular docking studies. The interaction between BA and the target proteins of glioblastoma were analysed through the Glide module (Version 6.5) of Schrodinger Suite (2015) software. According to the results of molecular docking, jagged-1 ligands interact with BA with stronger affinity and Frizzled receptors interact with least affinity in terms of glide score. The results indicate that BA interacts well with the polar amino acids such as Asn, Trp, Arg, Ser, Thr, Tyr, Gln, Asp, Lys and Glu. The ligand also showed interactions with specific hydrophobic amino acids such as Val, Ala and Leu in all the protein targets studied. The in vitro cytotoxicity studies reveal the cytotoxic potential of BA on the U87MG glioblastoma cell line. This study warrants further investigation to elucidate modulations on cell signalling pathways resulting from the specific BA-target interactions in glioblastoma.
Improving quality of delivery of public construction projects in Saudi Arabia.

In construction industry, quality of construction projects on delivery is essential for the companies seeking competitive advantage. In Saudi Arabia, different factors affect the quality of delivery of public construction projects. These factors are of major concern for the government and for the construction professionals. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate these parameters in Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia. Accordingly, opinions of 50 Saudi construction professionals are collected using questionnaire. The research sample includes participants of different ages, jobs, education and experience. The results show that the companies of 60% of the sample adopt clear definition of quality. This finding was reported by 88% of the older participants. Similar opinions were reported by 70% of consultants, 65% of contractors and 52% of site engineers. Same finding was reported by 71% of high school, 67% of high education and 55% of university educated participants along with 80% of the experience participants. The results show significant relationship between age, and education level, and the adoption of clear quality definition. The results also show that 52% of participants’ companies have quality development plans. In addition, 29 participants (58%) reported that top management in their companies support quality development plans. The results also show that the most important main factor affecting the quality of construction projects on delivery is the labour followed by site staff. Meanwhile, the lowest important main factors are the project, design of the project, and materials. Insignificant difference between age and the importance of these factors is found with significant relationships with job, education and experience were established. The most important sub-factors related to the project is the project location, related to materials is the relations with material suppliers, related to labour is the use of experienced labours, and related to sub-contractors is the evaluation of sub-contractors performance. Based on the results, recommendations are proposed. These include improvement of the tender prices to encourage contractors to hire skilled labour and to improve the harmonisation between the main contractors and the sub-contractors. It is also include collection of data from other cities for wider understanding of the quality issues.
Joint Optimization of Energy Storage Sharing and Demand Response in Microgrid Considering Multiple Uncertainties

Energy storage (ES) is playing an increasingly important role in reducing the spatial and temporal power imbalance of supply and demand caused by the uncertainty and periodicity of renewable energy in the microgrid. The utilization efficiency of distributed ES belonging to different entities can be improved through sharing, and considerable flexibility resources can be provided to the microgrid through the coordination of ES sharing and demand response, but its reliability is affected by multiple uncertainties from different sources. In this study, a two-stage ES sharing mechanism is proposed, in which the idle ES capacity is aggregated on the previous day to provide reliable resources for real-time optimization. Then, a two-layer semi-coupled optimization strategy based on a deep deterministic policy gradient is proposed to solve the asynchronous decision problems of day-ahead sharing and intra-day optimization. To deal with the impact of multiple uncertainties, Monte Carlo sampling is applied to ensure that the shared ES capacity is sufficient in any circumstances. Simulation verifies that the local consumption rate of renewable energy is effectively increased by 12.9%, and both microgrid operator and prosumers can improve their revenue through the joint optimization of ES sharing and demand response.
Analysis of Ethernet Powerlink network and development of a wireless extension based on the IEEE 802.11n WLAN

In questa tesi si analizza inizialmente Ethernet POWERLINK (EPL), una delle reti Ethernet Real-Time piu popolari grazie alle sue caratteristiche e prestazioni. Viene poi proposta l'estensione wireless della rete POWERLINK basata sulla rete IEEE 802.11n (WLAN), con quest'ultima opportunamente ottimizzata per la comunicazione industriale attraverso l'algoritmo di dynamic rate adaptation RSIN.
The gut microbiome and cardiac surgery an unusual symphony

The relationship between the gut microbiome and various organ systems has gained interest throughout the scientific community in recent times. The understanding of these complex relationships has greatly improved with clinical benefits now being seen. Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is a form of extracorporeal circulation that provides circulatory and respiratory support during cardiac surgery. This physiological support facilitates a still and bloodless field facilitating operations on the heart to be performed. Through various mechanisms CPB results in a systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). This response can vary from mild hypotension to multiple organ failure. It remains difficult to predict the degree to which a patient will experience SIRS post-operatively. The relationship between the composition of the gut microbiome and inflammatory processes associated with disease has been seen across several fields including gastroenterology, neurology, psychiatry and cardiology. To date, minimal research has been undertaken to examine the impact the gut microbiome has on outcomes following cardiac surgery. This review paper explores the pathophysiology behind the SIRS response associated with CPB for cardiac surgery and the hypothesis that a correlation exists between a patients gut microbiome composition and the degree of inflammatory response experienced following cardiac surgery.
Cooperative relaying protocols and distributed coding schemes for wireless multiterminal networks

With the rapid growth of wireless technologies, devices and mobile applications, the quest of high throughput and omnipresent connectivity in wireless networks increases rapidly as well. It is well known that cooperation increases significantly the spectral efficiency (coding gain) and the reliability (diversity gain) of the transmission between the nodes. The concept of cooperation in wireless relays network is still one of the most active research topics in wireless communication, scientists are still searching for the optimal cooperation strategies that make the possible gains at the maximum. Cooperation results when nodes in a network share their power and/or bandwidth resources to mutually enhance their transmissions and receptions. In wireless relay networks, the relays are special nodes that are used to improve the quality of communication between the source nodes and the destination nodes. In particular, the use of relays guarantees more efficient and reliable networks. In this work, we focus on a special wireless relay network where a set of sources (mobiles) want to communicate their messages to a common destination (base station) with the help of a set of relaysAt the beginning of this work, we focused on the cooperative scheme where the relay, after a fixed portion of time, tries to understand (decode) the source’s messages and forwards helpful signals for the correctly decoded ones. One of the limitations of the previous cooperative scheme is the fixe listening time of the relays, which cannot be adapted to the quality of the instantaneous sources-relays links. To solve this problem we propose a more advanced cooperative scheme where the listening time of each relay can be dynamic and not fixed in advanced. So the relay that has strong links with the sources can start cooperating earlier than the other relays with weak links. Currently, we are investigating other directions of possible improvements, for example, how can we use feedback signals to improve the efficiency of the network.
Modelling and analysis of current sensors for N-channel, vertical IGBTs

The static and dynamic performance of integrated current sensors in 500V, n-channel, asymmetric, vertical IGBTs are modelled and experimentally characterized. Two different current sensor structures are studied and compared. The active IGBT pilot shows more linear tracking of the main current with small pilot load resistor but the passive pilot is less susceptible to debiasing effect for a large resistor. During turn-on, the active pilot leads the main current due to RC delay whereas the passive pilot lags due to minority carrier diffusion. <<ETX>>
Simple Black-Box Universal Adversarial Attacks on Deep Neural Networks for Medical Image Classification

Universal adversarial attacks, which hinder most deep neural network (DNN) tasks using only a single perturbation called universal adversarial perturbation (UAP), are a realistic security threat to the practical application of a DNN for medical imaging. Given that computer-based systems are generally operated under a black-box condition in which only input queries are allowed and outputs are accessible, the impact of UAPs seems to be limited because well-used algorithms for generating UAPs are limited to white-box conditions in which adversaries can access model parameters. Nevertheless, we propose a method for generating UAPs using a simple hill-climbing search based only on DNN outputs to demonstrate that UAPs are easily generatable using a relatively small dataset under black-box conditions with representative DNN-based medical image classifications. Black-box UAPs can be used to conduct both nontargeted and targeted attacks. Overall, the black-box UAPs showed high attack success rates (40–90%). The vulnerability of the black-box UAPs was observed in several model architectures. The results indicate that adversaries can also generate UAPs through a simple procedure under the black-box condition to foil or control diagnostic medical imaging systems based on DNNs, and that UAPs are a more serious security threat.
Experimental Results of a Wind Energy Conversion System with STATCOM Using Fuzzy Logic Controller

This paper describes a complete implementation of the experimental voltage regulation of a wind energy conversion system using STATCOM. Firstly conventional control technique is used which is proportional plus integral controller. The control technique is performed using a PC computer through a suitable interfacing and opt-isolating facilities. Secondly fuzzy logic controller is facilitated in this scheme to improve the performance of the experimental setup. Several efforts are done to choose the suitable gains of the fuzzy controller to achieve superior performance of the wind system. Experimental results of the system show the effectiveness of the proposed technique in regulating the output voltage. Thanks to the operation of the STATCOM in controlling the reactive power of the system to fix the output voltage at the desired value regardless of the wind speed.
Gallium(III) Complex with Cloxyquin Ligands Induces Ferroptosis in Cancer Cells and Is a Potent Agent against Both Differentiated and Tumorigenic Cancer Stem Rhabdomyosarcoma Cells

In this work, gallium(III) complex with cloxyquin (5-chloro-8-quinolinol, HClQ) ligands is shown to effectively inhibit proliferation of rhabdomyosarcoma cells, the frequent, aggressive, and poorly treatable cancer of children. It offers striking selectivity to cancer cells compared to noncancerous human fibroblasts. The data reveal that the complex induces ferroptosis in rhabdomyosarcoma cells, likely due to interfering with iron metabolism. Importantly, it can kill both bulk and stem rhabdomyosarcoma cells. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first compound based on metal other than Fe capable of inducing ferroptosis in cancer cells.
Serum biochemical panel and modulation of skeletal muscle fibres: effect on the meat quality from lambs fed with different levels of whole cottonseed

The use of whole cottonseed (WCS) in the diet of ruminants has come to prominence mainly because this ingredient contains high levels of protein and lipids. The aims of this study were to evaluate serum biochemical panel and modulation of the skeletal muscle fibres (Longissimus thoracis) of Ile de France lambs fed with levels of WCS; and relationship between skeletal muscle fibres and meat quality. Fifty lambs were used in the experiment: five (5) reference and 45 equally distributed in treatments 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40% WCS (64 days feedlot time), using a completely randomised design. Blood biochemical determinations were performed using colorimetric kits. The fibers were determined by histochemistry method and classified as Type I, Type IIA, Type IIB and Type IIC. Muscle fiber characteristics were correlated with meat quality, considering variables of color, texture and sensory profile, physicochemical and fatty acid profile. Cholesterol levels, total protein and gamma-glutamyl transferase increased (p≤0.05) in line with increased levels of WCS in the diet. Muscle fibres modulation (p≤0.05) was observed, with an increase in red, a reduction in glycolytic, and modulation of Type IIB to Type IIA. The addition of WCS to the diet increased (p≤0.05) the relative area of Type IIC. There was correlation between muscle fibres and meat qualitative characteristics. Time effect was more pronounced than diet effect on the muscle fibres modulation. Muscle fibres modulation was closely linked with meat quality.
Calculation of iron losses from time-stepped finite-element models of cage induction machines

A technique for calculating the iron losses in a cage induction motor is demonstrated using time-stepping finite-element analysis, which has given good agreement with measured iron losses under both no-load and full-load conditions. The model has been used to investigate the variation of iron loss with load. It has been shown that the iron losses increase significantly from no-load to full-load; and that this increase is due entirely to the increase in the harmonic fields caused by slotting.
Association of Ramadan Participation with Psychological Parameters: A Cross-Sectional Study during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Iran

COVID-19 restrictions are associated with poor physical-activity (PA). Less is known about the relationship between the combination of these restrictions with Ramadan intermittent fasting (RIF), PA, mental health, and sleep-quality. The present study aimed to evaluate whether COVID-19 restrictions and RIF during the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Iran are associated with poor PA, anxiety, well-being, and sleep-quality outcomes. A total of 510 individuals participated in an online questionnaire that was disseminated to adults (≥18 years) residing in Iran from 13 May 2021 to 16 May 2021 (~3 days), just after the end of Ramadan 2021. PA behavior (Godin-Shephard Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire), anxiety (General Anxiety Disorder-7), well-being (Mental Health Continuum-Short Form), and sleep-quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index). Of 510 individuals included in the study (331 female (64.9%); mean ± SD, 31 ± 12 years), 172 (33.7%) reported less PA during the Ramadan 2021. PA was associated with better well-being and sleep-quality outcomes. Regardless of PA, participants who fasted for all of Ramadan had less anxiety and better well-being outcomes than those who fasted part of Ramadan or did not fast at all. However, the fasting part of Ramadan decreased the sleep-quality of active participants. The Ramadan 2021 was associated with poor PA, well-being, and sleep-quality of Iranians. However, PA was associated with better well-being and sleep-quality outcomes, and those who fasted all Ramadan had better anxiety and well-being outcomes. Therefore, PA during Ramadan might be an essential and scalable mental health resilience builder during COVID-19 restrictions which should be encouraged.
Site-Specific Survival of Extra Nodal Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma and Comparison With Gastrointestinal Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma

Background Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) constitutes 30% of all non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas. It can present as a nodal disease or as an extra nodal disease. Based on the site of origin, extra nodal DLBCL (EN-DLBCL) may have a distinct clinical outcome. Apart from the site of origin, factors including demographics, stage, and presence of any other primary malignancy also affect the outcome. The purpose of our study was to characterize prognostically distinct groups based on the site of presentation of EN-DLBCL. Methods We used 18 registries in Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database to identify the patients with EN-DLBCL for 2000 - 2015 with last follow-up till December 31, 2018. A total of 30,290 EN-DLBCL patients were selected and categorized based on 13 broad sites grouping. Demographic variables were summarized. We did overall survival analysis with univariate and multivariate Cox-proportional hazard modeling. Short-term survival trend was calculated as well. Results The percentage of EN-DLBCL of all DLBCLs is 34.48%. EN-DLBCL was comparatively seen more in males (54.94%) and non-Hispanic whites (71.52%). In terms of clinical characteristics, patients with EN-DLBCL were mostly diagnosed at age ≥ 60 years (66.11%), early stage (69.33%), and presentation as first primary cancer (81.89%). A higher risk of mortality was seen in non-Hispanic black (hazard ratio (HR) 1.36), with late age of onset (HR 2.69), late stage at presentation (HR 1.42), and with history of other malignancy (HR 1.29). Compared to the intestinal tract, the risk of overall mortality was higher in individuals with involvement of nervous system (HR 1.85), pancreas and hepatobiliary system (HR 1.22), and respiratory system (HR 1.18) and the best outcomes were seen in heart and mediastinal site (HR 0.58) of DLBCL. Conclusion Based upon our population-based study, we conclude that primary site of presentation of EN-DLBCL is an important prognostic factor with significant difference in survival based on histological and epidemiological characteristics.
Handbook of Research on Integrating Social Media into Strategic Marketing

To survive in todays competitive business environment, marketing professionals must look to develop innovative methods of reaching their customers and stakeholders. Web 2.0 provides a useful tool in developing the relationships between business and consumer.The Handbook of Research on Integrating Social Media into Strategic Marketing explores the use of social networking and other online media in marketing communications, including both best practices and common pitfalls to provide comprehensive coverage of the topic. This book is intended for marketing professionals, business managers, and anyone interested in how social media fits into todays marketing environments.
88 Association between area level material deprivation and incidence of hospitalization among children with SARS-CoV-2 in Montreal

Abstract Background Although sociodemographic factors have been linked with SARS-CoV-2 infection and hospitalizations in adults, there are little data on the association between sociodemographic characteristics and SARS-CoV-2-related hospitalization in children. Objectives The objective of this study was to determine the association between area-level material deprivation and incidence of hospitalization with SARS-CoV-2 among children. Design/Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all children (0-17 years of age) with a PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection between March 1, 2020, and May 31, 2021, at a tertiary care pediatric hospital. Data were collected through chart review and included age, sex, and postal code. Postal codes were then assigned a dissemination area-level material deprivation score, measured via the Pampalon Material Deprivation Index (PMDI) quintiles. The Pampalon Material Deprivation Index (PMDI) uses postal codes to describe factors related to material deprivation obtained from the Canadian census, which are proxies for individual data in a geographic area. Specifically, the PMDI integrates data regarding (i) the proportion of persons without a high school diploma; (ii) the employment-to-population ratio; (iii) average personal income which is aggregated at the dissemination area level. We examined the association between PMDI quintiles and hospitalization using Poisson regression. Results During the study period, 964 children had a positive PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 test and 124 were hospitalized due to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Children from the most deprived PMDI quintile represented 31.6% of positive cases and 40.7% of hospitalizations (Figure 1 and 2). Both in bivariate and multivariable regression analyses, there was evidence of greater proportion of positive test results in the most deprived PMDI quintile (Quintile 5) compared to the least deprived quintile (Quintile 1) (rate ratio 1.77, 95%CI: 1.36; 2.62) (Table 1). The incidence of hospitalization due to SARS-CoV-2 infection was 2.42 times greater in the most deprived quintile compared to the least deprived quintile (95%CI: 1.33; 4.41) (table 1). In a post-hoc analysis, the risk for severe disease appeared higher for children living in Q5 areas relative to other areas but the difference did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion In conclusion, in this study we found evidence that Canadian children living in neighbourhoods with high material deprivation had a higher incidence of infection and hospitalizations related to SARS-Cov-2 compared to children living in neighbourhoods with less material deprivation. Public health authorities should take these disparities into account when devising public health policy and interventions especially at this crucial point in the pandemic. Special efforts should be deployed to protect children from these more disadvantaged areas, especially as vaccination is not yet available to a majority of children.