Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
GeneChip expression profiling identified OLFML2A as a potential therapeutic target in TNBC cells

Background An elevated level of olfactomedin-like-2A (OLFML2A) is unfavorable for female breast cancer patients. Patients with a high mRNA level of OLFML2A receive a poor prognosis. Therefore, we speculate that inhibiting the expression of this gene may be beneficial to breast cancer patients. We previously found that silencing the OLFML2A gene by using mRNA interference significantly inhibited proliferation and migration in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. Methods Cell activity and proliferation were determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and Celigo analyses. Cell migration and invasion were determined by wound-healing and transwell invasion assays. The mechanism of the inhibition of a small hairpin RNA that targets OLFML2A (shOLFML2A) was determined by using a GeneChip array, real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), and western blot analysis. Results Gene silencing by shOLFML2A induces apoptosis by promoting S phase arrest in TNBC cells. In addition, shOLFML2A decreased the progression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Additionally, microarray analysis showed that shOLFML2A significantly upregulated 428 genes and downregulated 712 genes. These significantly changed genes regulated DNA synthesis, chromosome alignment, microtubules and the cytoskeleton, cell movement, the cell cycle, cell necrosis, and apoptosis because they promoted G2/M DNA damage checkpoint regulation and p53 signaling, and because they inhibited integrin, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), nerve growth Factor (NGF), and other tumor-promoting signaling pathways. Conclusions shOLFML2A reduces cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and promotes cell apoptosis. Therefore, the results of the present study suggest that OLFML2A is a potential therapeutic target for TNBC.
Acceptance of M-Pesa Service and its Effect on Performance of Small and Micro-Businesses in Kenya

A lot of research has been done on the effect of mobile money on efficiency of and outreach of micro-finance loans in developing countries. Yet to date, there has been no quantitative test to show the factors driving the acceptance of mobilemoney service, and whether the level of acceptance has any significant effect on the performance of small and micro-businesses in Kenya. This study investigated factors determining the acceptance of M-PESA service and the effect of M-pesa Service on small and micro-businesses in Kenya. It further investigated the challenges facing M-PESA users in Kenya. The study adopted a survey and case study design on a sample of 1230 small and micro-business operators in Limuru town in Kenya. ANOVA tests was used to show whether there are differences in average acceptance of the M-PESA service among consumers who had different views regarding: perceived ease of use, social influence, facilitating conditions and trust i.e security of the service. Regression analysis was used to show the actual effect of the acceptance of M-Pesa on small and micro-business performance. Results indicated that, there is a significant difference in acceptance of M-pesa by traders who had: reported different perceived ease of use, social influence, facilitating conditions by the provider and security of the system when transferring money. After controlling for the factors that influences performance, regression results indicated that, acceptance of M-pesa had positive and significant effect on the performance. Security of money transactions, sending money to the wrong persons and lack of electronic money float were identified as challenges facing M-PESA service users and agents in Kenya. The knowledge generated in this study is important to the business community in Kenya and Mobile money service providers in Kenya. A conclusion can be reached that M-Pesa is an intervention in business world that has contributed to improvement in performance of small and micro-business in Kenya. The recommendation is that microbusinesses should embrace mobile banking, for it is an intervention that will go a long way in improving lives for Kenyans.
Impact of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) in oligoprogressive metastatic disease

Abstract Purpose There is increasing interest in using stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) in areas of oligoprogressive metastatic disease (OPD). Our main objective was to investigate the impact of SBRT on overall survival (OS) and the incidence of systemic therapy treatment switches in this population. Methods A retrospective institutional review of patients treated with SBRT for OPD was performed. Patients were included if they received SBRT for 1–3 discrete progressing metastases, using a dose of at least 5 Gy per fraction. The study aimed to calculate progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), local control (LC), and incidence of treatment switch (TS). PFS and OS were calculated using the Kaplan–Meier methodology, while LC and TS were determined using cumulative incidence. Results Eighty-one patients with a total of 118 lesions were treated with SBRT from July 2014 to November 2020. The Median SBRT dose was 40 (18–60) Gy in 5 (2–8) fractions. Patients had primarily kidney, lung, or breast cancer. Most patients were treated with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) (30.9%) or chemotherapy (29.6%) before OPD. The median follow-up post-SBRT was 14 months. Median OS and PFS were 25.1 (95% CI 11.2–39.1) months and 7.8 (95% CI 4.6–10.9) months, respectively. The cumulative incidence of local progression of treated lesions was 5% at 1 year and 7.3% at 2 years. Sixty patients progressed after SBRT and 17 underwent additional SBRT. Thirty-eight patients (47%) changed systemic therapy following SBRT; the cumulative incidence of TS was 28.5% at 6 months, 37.4% at 1 year, and 43.9% at 2 years. Conclusions SBRT effectively controls locally progressing lesions but distant progression still occurs frequently. A sizeable number of patients can be salvaged by further SBRT or have minimally progressing diseases that may not warrant an immediate initiation/switch in systemic therapy. Further prospective studies are needed to validate this benefit.
D-limonene (5 (one-methyl-four-[1-methylethenyl]) cyclohexane) diminishes CCl4-induced cardiac toxicity by alleviating oxidative stress, inflammatory and cardiac markers

ABSTRACT Background: The cardiovascular crisis is advancing rapidly throughout the world. A large number of studies have shown that plant polyphenols affect major mechanisms involved in cardiovascular events through their action on the antioxidant system, signaling, and transcription pathways. D-limonene, a monocyclic monoterpene obtained from citrus fruits, is reported to possess many pharmacological activities. Methods: The experiment was designed to determine the protective effect of D-limonene against cardiac injury induced by CCl4 in Wistar rats. Rats were treated with two doses of D-limonene against cardiac injury induced by CCl4. Serum toxicity markers, cardiac toxicity biomarker enzymes, inflammatory mediators, anti-oxidant armory, lipid peroxidation, lipid profile, and histology were done. Results: CCl4 intoxication resulted in a substantial rise in FFA, TC, TG, PL, LDL, VLDL, and a reduction in HDL, restoring these changes with the administration of D-limonene at a dosage of 200 mg/kg. CCl4 administration also resulted in lipid oxidation and decreased antioxidant activity. At the same time, D-limonene at a dosage of 200 mg/kg body weight inhibited LPO and restored in vivo antioxidant components to normal. CCl 4 intoxication also resulted in a significant increase in inflammatory markers like IL-6, TNF-α, high sensitivity Corticotropin Releasing Factor (Hs-CRF), and biomarkers of cardiac toxicity like alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase MB (CKMB), and Troponin I & troponin-t activities. D-limonene reversed all these changes to normal. Histology further confirmed our obtained results. Conclusion: These findings indicate that D-limonene can ameliorate cardiac injury at a 200 mg/kg body weight dosage. Henceforth, D-Limonene intervenes in mediating CCl4 induced toxicity by various signaling pathways. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Forecasting Stalking Recidivism Using the Guidelines for Stalking Assessment and Management (SAM)

We examined the long-term risk for stalking recidivism and the predictive validity of ratings made using the Guidelines for Stalking Assessment and Management (SAM) in 100 stalking offenders from a forensic clinic. Overall, 45 offenders were convicted of, charged with, or the subject of police investigation for stalking-related offenses during a potential time at risk that averaged 13.47 years. Survival analyses using the Cox proportional hazards model indicated that a composite score of the presence of SAM risk factors was significantly predictive of recidivism and had significant incremental validity relative to total scores on two scales commonly used in violence risk assessment, the Screening Version of the Hare Psychopathy Checklist–Revised (PCL:SV) and the Violence Risk Appraisal Guide (VRAG). Overall ratings of risk made using the SAM, however, were not significantly predictive of recidivism. We discuss the potential uses of the SAM in stalking risk assessment and provide recommendations for future research.
Focusing on behaviour to ensure adoption of Big Data information services in Precision Lifestock Farming

Big Data has a lot of potential for PLF as it allows for monitoring on a constant and real-time basis and can show connections between different data sources, which results in insights on the level of the individual cow that cannot be detected by the human eye. Technical implementation hereof is however not the only hurdle to take for data-driven PLF; business and social aspects also challenge the realization of this ambition. For Big Data solutions to work in PLF, cooperation is therefore needed throughout the value chain, the farmer will need to change his role, and transparency and trust become crucial factors for the adoption of data-driven farming. The project Smart Dairy Farming encountered those challenges, forcing the project to take behavioral- and organizational change processes into account. Starting with a value chain analysis pointing out the relationships, responsibilities and value exchanges, followed by other tools from human centered design such as Personas, the adoption of the Smart Dairy Farming innovations by all stakeholders was ensured.
Coverage of 'Human Factors' in project management literature

Researchers of project management over the last 20 years have published multiple significant reviews that have served to map the landscape of project management, revealing its complexity and deepening our understanding. Contributing to this understanding is an ongoing challenge, and one dependent on the timely identification of topics that reveal truths and propel practice. This paper contributes to this understanding through a systematic review of more than 1100 journal articles published in the last 5 years on the theme of the ‘human factors’ of project management that reveals their multiplicity, distribution and focus. The article will conclude with directions for future research. Normal 0 false false false EN-US JA X-NONE
Parasitic Flux Analysis of Cooled Infrared Detectors for Space Applications

An infrared imager measures radiations emitted by an object in specified spectral bands to determine change in object’s characteristics over a period of time. A typical infrared imager consists of focusing optics and a cryogenically cooled two-dimensional infrared detector array mounted on the cold tip of an active micro-cooler vacuum sealed with an optical window, typically known as integrated detector cooler assembly (IDCA). Detection of feeble radiant flux from the intended target in a narrow spectral band requires a highly sensitive low noise sensor array with high well capacity. However, in practical applications the performance of an infrared imager is limited by the parasitic thermal emissions from optical elements and emissions from IDCA components like vacuum window, Dewar walls which are generally kept at ambient temperature. To optimise the performance of imager it becomes imperative to estimate these parasitic fluxes and take corrective actions to minimise their effects. This paper explains an analytical model developed to estimate parasitic fluxes generated from different components of a long wave infrared imager. Validation of the developed model was carried out by simulations in ZEMAX optical design software using ray trace method after analytical computations in MATLAB.
Number Plate Detection using Image Processing for Automated Toll Collection to prevent fraudulent behaviour

Toll Collection in India is a matter of concern as the toll checkpoints are hotbeds of corruption. The purpose of this research paper is to propose a technique where collection of tolls can be done electronically using image processing technique where we can detect the number plate of a vehicle and thereby deduct the toll amount. Using this technique we can make an attempt to eradicate corruption from toll checkpoints in India. Here in India, people also use smart cards for travel purpose. There will be a mechanism to detect whether the owner of the car owns a smart card and accordingly the smart card will be checked and the toll amount will not be deducted from the vehicle owner's account. The current scenario is that the vehicle needs to slow down at the toll collection area in order to pay the amount which leads to traffic problem and sometimes the toll collector doesn't collect the toll fee from the owner. So the proposed technique will maintain all the records of the toll collected as there is no physical cash involved in this technique. Keywords—Image processing, number plate detection
Volvo within reach - Investigating the user experience of Volvo On Call and exploring opportunities for future development

There has been a shift in manufacturing companies from developing products and services that merely work well and are easy to use, towards also considering how to create positive user experiences. Volvo Cars is a company that strives for this approach in the design of both cars and car-related products and services, including Volvo On Call – a built-in safety assistance system accompanied by a smartphone app. The purpose of this master thesis project was to thoroughly investigate the user experience of Volvo On Call and how it influences the car experience. The aim was to explore opportunities for how Volvo On Call can be further developed and improved from a user experience perspective. This was carried out with a user-centered and experience driven approach in a two-step process consisting of the main phases Exploration and Creation. Users were involved throughout the project. The major part of the first phase Exploration consisted of a qualitative user study. The goal was to achieve an understanding for how the Volvo On Call concept is experienced today by collecting and analyzing user narratives, and thereby identify possibilities for how the service can be further developed. The user study showed that Volvo On Call elicits overall positive user experiences, and adds another dimension to the car experience. It was concluded that the best way of improving and further developing Volvo On Call was to build on its already established values; simplifying and enriching everyday life when it comes to car-related activities, and extending and enhancing the car experience. Based on implications found in the user study, the Creation phase explored how these values could be achieved by incorporating a smart and more assistive behavior in Volvo On Call, as well as consider how the interplay with the car could be improved. The end result was a User Experience Vision as well as a selection of early concept ideas, which were assessed in the form of storyboards together with users. This was done in order to get an indication of how the proposed functionality and behavior would be received, and how well it corresponds to the users’ expectations. It could be concluded that a smart and assistive Volvo On Call is a viable and desirable continuation of the current concept within a near future. However, the proposed concept comes with new demands which need to be fulfilled in order to achieve the intended user experience. In addition, several possible directions for the future development of Volvo On Call were identified during this project, which highlights a need for making strategic decisions about how the concept should evolve, taking into account the holistic experience of the app and the car, the progression of technology development, and potential changes in the automotive industry.
Comparative Analysis of Different Agile Methodologies

Today's business, political and economic environment is very much dynamic, and customers are adapting their software requirements to adjust with these new environment. In particular software needs to cater to the change in business environment due to the current economic down trend situation. Agile methodology satisfies the customer through early and continuous delivery of software. This research paper helps in understanding various agile methods; comparison among agile methods: XP, Scrum, FDD, DSDM, ASD and to find out relationship among them to help future developers to get new ideas, methods to develop software and also help to choose the right methodology. This study in general aims to contribute to the agile body of knowledge.
Reframing Project Assessments: Including People as a Priority

ABSTRACT With constrained resources, librarians must identify the catalog projects most deserving of staff time. Projects are unique from regular work, arising from internal analysis or brought to technical services within the library organization. Assessment, using data to make positive change, describes a project’s value. While assessment is seen as crucial to library work, recently there has been a movement in librarianship to address bias within some long-used standards, some of which are part of a traditional assessment. This study identifies a set of assessment areas that describe and compare three cataloging projects involving bibliographic records for non-English language resources. It compares cost, quality, public impact, support of library strategic plan, support of division and personnel, support of professional values and ethics, and a free writing section. This article discusses the strengths and weaknesses of these assessment areas and describes the benefits of shifting the focus away from production as a means of description.
Singing Knit: Soft Knit Biosensing for Augmenting Vocal Performances

This paper discusses the design of the Singing Knit, a wearable knit collar for measuring a singer’s vocal interactions through surface electromyography. We improve the ease and comfort of multi-electrode bio-sensing systems by adapting knit e-textile methods. The goal of the design was to preserve the capabilities of rigid electrode sensing while addressing its shortcomings, focusing on comfort and reliability during extended wear, practicality and convenience for performance settings, and aesthetic value. We use conductive, silver-plated nylon jersey fabric electrodes in a full rib knit accessory for sensing laryngeal muscular activation. We discuss the iterative design and the material decision-making process as a method for building integrated soft-sensing wearable systems for similar settings. Additionally, we discuss how the design choices through the construction process reflect its use in a musical performance context.
T2Snaker: a Robotic Coach for Table Tennis

The restrictions imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic has significantly affected all aspects of daily life, especially human contact. Accordingly, an essential aspect of human contact is for training and skill acquisition, which is difficult to conduct under such restrictions. Therefore, we developed T2Snaker, a table tennis training system that comprises a robotic appendage to guide user’s hand movements within a VR environment. T2Snaker’s novelty lies in its flexibility to guide users movements, yet as it is not directly attached to the user’s limbs, it does not impose restrictions on their movements like traditional exoskeleton systems. We explain the implementation specifics of T2Snaker and discuss its preliminary evaluation that focused on table-tennis skill acquisition. The results show that T2Snaker has high potential in skill acquisition, and users praised is ability to guide their movements and proposed various potential application domains. We discuss some design insights based on our work and present future research directions.
Increasing the Perceived Speed of Dynamic Handheld Shape Displays through Visuo-Haptic Illusions

Dynamic handheld shape displays, with the capacity to change their shapes dynamically while being grasped by the user, have been developed to enable realistic haptic interaction with various virtual objects in virtual reality. However, these devices tend to be limited in their actuation speed owing to the small size requirement necessary for users to grab, which reduces the variability of virtual objects that they can render. In this study, we employ visuo-haptic illusions to improve the perceived actuation speed of dynamic handheld shape displays in VR to alleviate this problem. We present two approaches: distance modification, which increases the visual travel distance, and time modification, which decreases the visual travel time, both of which were applied to an existing handheld shape display. Experimental results suggest that the perception of the device’s actuation speed is improved by our approach, while participants remain unaware of the discrepancy between visual and haptic speed.
A Framework for Facilitating Reproducible News Sentiment Impact Analysis

The proliferation of outlets for news media in recent decades has contributed to faster issuance of news data. News analysis has been one of the key activities conducted by researchers in a broad variety of research disciplines. In general, the analysis process used in these studies includes interpreting the content of the news items, and then discovering their impact in a specific area. In this paper, we delve into the field of news analysis applied to the financial domain and explore news sentiment impact analysis in the context of financial markets. Existing studies lack systematic methods to assimilate financial context and evaluate the impact of a given news dataset on relevant entities financial market performance. We introduce an improved version of the framework called News Sentiment Impact Analysis (NSIA) that encompasses models, supporting software architecture and processes for defining various financial contexts and conducting news sentiment impact analysis. The framework is then evaluated using a prototype implementation and a case study that investigates the impact of extremely negative news on the stock price of the related entities. The results demonstrate the functionality, usability and reproducibility of the framework, and its capability to bridge the gap between generating news sentiment and evaluating its impact in selected financial contexts.