Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Machine learning in breast MRI

Machine‐learning techniques have led to remarkable advances in data extraction and analysis of medical imaging. Applications of machine learning to breast MRI continue to expand rapidly as increasingly accurate 3D breast and lesion segmentation allows the combination of radiologist‐level interpretation (eg, BI‐RADS lexicon), data from advanced multiparametric imaging techniques, and patient‐level data such as genetic risk markers. Advances in breast MRI feature extraction have led to rapid dataset analysis, which offers promise in large pooled multiinstitutional data analysis. The object of this review is to provide an overview of machine‐learning and deep‐learning techniques for breast MRI, including supervised and unsupervised methods, anatomic breast segmentation, and lesion segmentation. Finally, it explores the role of machine learning, current limitations, and future applications to texture analysis, radiomics, and radiogenomics.
Monitoring and Enforcement of Safety Hyperproperties

Certain important security policies such as information flow characterize system-wide behaviors and are not properties of individual executions. It is known that such security policies cannot be expressed in trace-based specification languages such as linear-time temporal logic (Ltl). However, formalisms such as hyperproperties and the associated logic HyperLTL allow us to specify such policies. In this thesis, we concentrate on the static enforcement and runtime verification of safety hyperproperties expressed in HyperLTL. For static enforcement of safety hyperproperties, we incorporate program repair techniques, where an input program is modified to satisfy certain properties while preserving its existing specifications. Assuming finite state space for the input program, we show that the complexity of program repair for safety hyperproperties is in general NP-hard. However, there are certain cases in which the problem can be solved in polynomial time. We identify such cases and give polynomial-time algorithms for them. In the context of runtime verification, we make two contributions: we (1) analyze the complexity of decision procedures for verifying safety hyperproperties, (2) provide a syntactic fragment in HyperLTL to express certain k-safety hyperproperties, and (3) develop a general runtime verification technique for HyperLTL k-safety formulas, for cases where verification at run time can be done in polynomial time. Our technique is based on runtime formula progression as well as on-the-fly monitor synthesis across multiple executions.
Application of Simultaneous Localization and Mapping Algorithms for Haptic Teleoperation of Aerial Vehicles

In this thesis, a new type of haptic teleoperator system for remote control of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) has been developed, where the Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) algorithms are implemented for the purpose of generating the haptic feedback. Specifically, the haptic feedback is provided to the human operator through interaction with artificial potential field built around the obstacles in the virtual environment which is located at the master site of the teleoperator system. The obstacles in the virtual environment replicate essential features of the actual remote environment where the UAV executes its tasks. The state of the virtual environment is generated and updated in real time using Extended Kalman Filter SLAM algorithms based on measurements performed by the UAV in the actual remote environment. Two methods for building haptic feedback from SLAM algorithms have been developed. The basic SLAM-based haptic feedback algorithm uses fixed size potential field around the obstacles, while the robust SLAM-based haptic feedback algorithm changes the size of potential field around the obstacle depending on the amount of uncertainty in obstacle location, which is represented by the covariance estimate provided by EKF. Simulations and experimental results are presented that evaluate the performance of the proposed teleoperator system.
Cognitive reserve attenuates age-related cognitive decline in the context of putatively accelerated brain ageing in schizophrenia-spectrum disorders

Abstract Background In schizophrenia, relative stability in the magnitude of cognitive deficits across age and illness duration is inconsistent with the evidence of accelerated deterioration in brain regions known to support these functions. These discrepant brain–cognition outcomes may be explained by variability in cognitive reserve (CR), which in neurological disorders has been shown to buffer against brain pathology and minimize its impact on cognitive or clinical indicators of illness. Methods Age-related change in fluid reasoning, working memory and frontal brain volume, area and thickness were mapped using regression analysis in 214 individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and 168 healthy controls. In patients, these changes were modelled as a function of CR. Results Patients showed exaggerated age-related decline in brain structure, but not fluid reasoning compared to controls. In the patient group, no moderation of age-related brain structural change by CR was evident. However, age-related cognitive change was moderated by CR, such that only patients with low CR showed evidence of exaggerated fluid reasoning decline that paralleled the exaggerated age-related deterioration of underpinning brain structures seen in all patients. Conclusions In schizophrenia-spectrum illness, CR may negate ageing effects on fluid reasoning by buffering against pathologically exaggerated structural brain deterioration through some form of compensation. CR may represent an important modifier that could explain inconsistencies in brain structure – cognition outcomes in the extant literature.
Fast Head-and-shoulder Segmentation

Many tasks of visual computing and communications such as object recognition, matting, compression, etc., need to extract and encode the outer boundary of the object in a digital image or video. In this thesis, we focus on a particular video segmentation task and propose an efficient method for head-and-shoulder of humans through video frames. The key innovations for our work are as follows: (1) a novel head descriptor in polar coordinate is proposed, which can characterize intrinsic head object well and make it easy for computer to process, classify and recognize. (2) a learning-based method is proposed to provide highly precise and robust head-and-shoulder segmentation results in applications where the head-and-shoulder object in the question is a known prior and the background is too complex. The efficacy of our method is demonstrated on a number of challenging experiments.
MiR‐496 promotes migration and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition by targeting RASSF6 in colorectal cancer

Aberrant loss of tumor‐suppressor genes plays a crucial role in tumorigenesis and development of colorectal cancer (CRC). Extensive studies have reported tha hypermethylation of Ras association domain family member 6 (RASSF6) is common in various solid tumors. Another important mode of epigenetic regulation, microRNA (miRNA) regulation of RASSF6, is far from clear. The aim of the present work was to screen out novel miRNA regulating RASSF6, and to explore its underlying mechanism in CRC. With the use of bioinformatics, clinical sample data, and luciferase binding assay, we determined that microRNA‐496 (miR‐496) could be a novel oncomiR that directly binds to RASSF6. Next, a series of miR‐496 mimics or inhibitor, or RASSF6 small interfering RNA (siRNA) introduced into CRC cells were applied to examine the effect of miR‐496 on CRC cell viability, migration, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). The results demonstrated that miR‐496/RASSF6 could promote cell migration and EMT via Wnt signaling activation, but had no effect on cell viability. Our results confirmed that the miR‐496/RASSF6 axis is involved in Wnt pathway‐mediated tumor metastasis, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for CRC.
Emergence of structure in mouse embryos: Structural Entropy morphometry applied to digital models of embryonic anatomy

We apply an information‐theoretic measure to anatomical models of the Edinburgh Mouse Atlas Project. Our goal is to quantify the anatomical complexity of the embryo and to understand how this quantity changes as the organism develops through time. Our measure, Structural Entropy, takes into account the geometrical character of the intermingling of tissue types in the embryo. It does this by a mathematical process that effectively imagines a point‐like explorer that starts at an arbitrary place in the 3D structure of the embryo and takes a random path through the embryo, recording the sequence of tissues through which it passes. Consideration of a large number of such paths yields a probability distribution of paths making connections between specific tissue types, and Structural Entropy is calculated from this (mathematical details are given in the main text). We find that Structural Entropy generally decreases (order increases) almost linearly throughout developmental time (4–18 days). There is one `blip’ of increased Structural Entropy across days 7–8: this corresponds to gastrulation. Our results highlight the potential for mathematical techniques to provide insight into the development of anatomical structure, and also the need for further sources of accurate 3D anatomical data to support analyses of this kind.
Reliable Glasgow Coma Scale Assessment in Our Sedated and/or Mechanically Ventilated Patients?

682 www.pccmjournal. org July 2019 • Volume 20 • Number 7 This provocative study demonstrates that many children with GBS can have a very good outcome without receiving IVIG, but many questions remain. Are these data from a resource-limited region of India translatable to other more developed countries? If IVIG is to be withheld from some children with GBS, how do we identify those who really need it? Should nerve conduction studies be done not just for diagnosis but also for treatment decisions, and what is the deadline or therapeutic window for deciding whether IVIG should be given? The study by Kalita et al (1) was revised four times and it still has deficiencies. But the data are clear, IVIG did not improve outcome in children with GBS. It calls for greater scrutiny in the use of IVIG for pediatric GBS as well as other neuroinflammatory diseases.
Goal-scenario-oriented requirements engineering for functional decomposition with bidirectional transformation to controlled natural language: Case study "body control module"

Requirements for embedded systems are mainly documented using natural language. This is due to the fact that natural language does not require special nomenclature knowledge and is accepted as the basis for contractual agreements. However, purely natural-language-based requirements engineering (RE) is often error-prone, potentially ambiguous, and does not foster traceability and hence requires tedious manual reviews and analyses. Model-based requirements engineering is often considered a possible solution as models enhance traceability, aid in stakeholder communication, and foster automatic model analysis and model checking. However, model-based requirements engineering is only slowly adopted in the industry, partly because no clear guidelines to their application exist, particularly in legally binding documents. In order to combine the advantages of model-based requirements engineering with the convenience of natural-language-based requirements engineering, we developed a combined RE approach that relies on both a controlled natural language (i.e., a natural language that is restricted in its expressiveness) as well as requirements models and defines a structured interface between both specification paradigms. The purpose of this document is to report on the application of the combined approach in an industrial case study from the automotive industry: a body control module. A body control module is an electronic control unit (ECU) that centralizes the control of body and comfort functions provided by multiple other ECUs distributed in a vehicle. The case study illustrates how controlled natural language as well as requirements models can be used in order to specify solution-neutral goal and scenario models as well as functional requirements of a body control module across multiple layers of abstraction.
Cosmopolitan A1 lineage of dengue virus serotype 2 is circulating in Pakistan: A study from 2017 dengue viral outbreak

Dengue viral infection has become a challenge in tropical and subtropical countries where dengue virus is endemic. Its epidemics are occurring at higher rates amid its circulation throughout the year. Since the first documented outbreak in Pakistan in 1994, this region has reported many sporadic cases and epidemics. There is availability of small scale demographic and epidemiological studies on dengue viral infection in Pakistan. The year 2017 witnessed a huge dengue outbreak in Peshawar city of Pakistan with 69 deaths and 24 807 laboratory‐confirmed cases. We suspect that the circulation of a different lineage or genotype could be responsible for the enhanced number of infected patients in Pakistan's 2017 outbreak since previous studies have already described this phenomenon in other countries. For this, we collected 1447 suspected blood samples and their epidemiological data. After serotyping through polymerase chain reaction nine samples of Dengue virus2 (DENV2) were randomly selected and were subjected to Sanger's sequencing for genotyping analysis. The mean distance, genetic diversity, and phylogenetic analysis were carried out using K2 model. The phylogenetic analysis split Pakistani isolates into two lineages, the sequences from 2017 outbreak in Peshawar grouped within A1 lineage of cosmopolitan genotype (IV) of DENV2. The difference in distance, genetic diversity, and amino acids composition strongly back the results that the new lineage is circulating in the region. This is significant as Pakistan is struggling to control dengue epidemics which have caused much loss in both monetary and health sectors.
Employing speech act theory as an exegetical tool on the Matthean beatitudes

The literary nature of the Beatitudes demonstrates a composition that developed orally. Speech act theory is utilized in understanding the oral features of the text as well as demonstrating what Jesus did in his utterances. The significance of the Beatitudes lies in the authoritative utterances of Jesus. Speech act theory allows for an investigation into the nature of those utterances. This paper recognizes six principles guiding speech act theory on the Beatitudes. A speech act model is presented and applied to the Beatitudes pericope (Matt 5:3-16). The formula is SP+(EE)CH=ACT: analyse the situated performativity of a text, add it to the multiplying nature of existential engagement by the interpreter with the illocutionary force found through the critical horizon of guiding worldviews, and the result is an Acquired Communal Translation for the social body. It is understood that Matthew intended to compose a pericope in serving as a paradigmatic utterance to guide the Matthean community in its existence and mission in the world. In addition, the paradigm is to be adopted by all Christian communities in their mission to the world.
Music Recommendations

Today’s online music services like Spotify provide their listeners with different types of music recommendations, e.g., in the form of weekly recommendations or personalized radio stations. Such recommendations are often based, at least in parts, on collaborative filtering techniques. In this chapter, we first review the different types of music recommendations that can be found in practice and discuss the specific challenges of the domain. Next, we discuss technical approaches for the problems of music discovery and next-track recommendation in more depth, with a specific focus on their practical application at Spotify. Finally, we further elaborate on open challenges in the field and revisit the specific problems of evaluating music recommendation systems in academic environments.
DO SELF-PRESENTATION TACTICS MEDIATE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SELF-REGULATORY ORIENTATIONS AND PROBLEMATIC INTERNET USE ?

Problematic Internet use has been an important topic for researchers. Though, (problematic) Internet use is a motivated action, underlying motivations are largely unexamined. Therefore, in the current study, effects of selfregulatory orientations (i.e., promotion and prevention self-regulatory foci) with the mediating role of selfpresentation tactics on problematic Internet use was examined on 225 university students who use the Internet mostly for social network sites (SNSs). Portrait Values Questionnaire was used to determine participants’ selfregulatory orientations (prevention focus and promotion focus). Self-Presentation Tactics Scale was used to determine the type of mainly used tactics (defensive and assertive) on SNSs. Problematic Internet Use Scale was used to determine the consequences of their Internet use. Results revealed that neither prevention focus, nor promotion focus orientations directly predict problematic Internet use. As expected, defensive self-presentation tactics mediate the relationship between promotion focus and problematic Internet use. Therefore, focusing on gains –rather than a losson the SNSs leads to more defensive self-presentation tactics which in turn leads to problematic Internet use.
DETERMI I G A RELATIO SHIP BETWEE ESKOM DISTRIBUTIO ETWORK PERFORMA CE IMPROVEME T A D I FRASTRUCTURE I VESTME T COST

The paper illustrates a reliability modelling approach followed by Eskom Distribution in order to better understand the relationship between the cost of network infrastructure improvements and the expected return on this investment in terms of improved reliability of the network on a system-wide basis. This is achieved by following a pragmatic sample-based approach, acknowledging that the ultimate would be to be able to model each individual feeder in a system in a simultaneous system-wide approach. Our results to date show that the most cost-effective approaches to improving reliability is not always transparent and can vary substantially between feeders and geographical locations. This is a classic illustration of the Pareto principle – in this case 80% reliability improvement for 20% of the cost. Furthermore, significant improvements in network performance may require topology changes; and there is a diminishing return on investment in terms of additional improvement in reliability for more costly infrastructure investments. The preliminary results illustrate that distribution system-wide reliability assessment is the key to optimising investments in order to provide customers more and better service in an intelligent and cost efficient way.
INVESTIGATING LEARNERS ’ PERSPECTIVES ON UBIQUITOUS / MOBILE LEARNING AND SATISFACTION IN A HIGHER EDUCATION ( HEI ) INSTITUTION IN OMAN

Ubiquitous Learning via e-learning systems and smartphones is a major accelerating factor in the popularity of digital learning content among learners. The ease of access, perpetual availability of materials, availability of the content in various formats have assisted in promoting learning and creativity in learners across the institutions where learning systems seamlessly integrate across networks, platforms and devices. In this paper, we investigate the factors that contribute to learner satisfaction while using mobile learning in their day to day learning activities. We propose an integrated model by extending Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Information System (IS) Success Model. This proposed model includes factors: Educational Quality (EQ) and Information Quality (IQ) from IS model and Perceived Usefulness (PU) from TAM with incorporation of one more construct, Resource Sharing (RS). In this study, a paper-based survey is used to elicit responses from over 200 students from one of the higher educational institutions (HEIs) in the Middle East.
Combining Agile Software Development Practices and Knowledge Transfer Systems to Support Knowledge Sharing Between Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and Software Developers

This annotated bibliography reveals that knowledge transfer systems, when combined with selected agile software development practices, may help overcome barriers that prevent knowledge sharing between subject matter experts (SMEs) and software developers. Social aspects of agile development practices (pair programming) and approaches to knowledge transfer (community of practice) are shown to address barriers including hoarding, linguistics, and bureaucracy. The goal is to mitigate risks associated with potential loss of intellectual capital related to legacy systems.
Identification of Suitable Sites for Solid Waste Disposal using GIS Multi-criteria Analysis in Peshawar , Pakistan

In this paper an effort has been made to identify suitable sites for safe disposal of municipal and other solid waste generated in Peshawar City District. Using GIS and Remote Sensing for identification of landfill site is more economical and effective than traditional techniques. Selection of suitable site depends on a number of factors to ensure environment friendly disposal of solid waste. For analysis and identification of suitable site for safe disposal in Peshawar city district, SPOT satellite image of 2010 and Topographic sheets have been used as a base map. Primary and secondary data were collected from various sources. Using multicriteria analysis in ArcGIS 9.3, surfaces were generated for all the selected parameters by applying spatial analysis tools. Weighted parametric values were assigned to all the layers using some of the Environmental Protection Agency standards parameters for selection of landfill site. The sites were selected having minimum environmental consequences. Based on the selected parameters including distances from residential areas, airport, water bodies, distance to spine roads, water table, land values, slope stability and land use pattern were used. As a result, the entire Peshawar city district was divided into three regions of least suitable, moderately suitable and most suitable landfill sites. The most suitable sites were located largely in southern parts of the city district where weight according to site suitability was the highest.
Study, modeling and simulation of photovoltaic panels under uniform and nonuniform illumination conditions

In this work we studied the behavior of the photovoltaic panels in a uniform and non uniform illumination conditions on the module surface. For this a group of UDTS50 PV panels was modeled and simulated under Matlab/Simulink environment toward discuss and compare the external characteristics in the two studied situations. The simulation results obtained shows well the effect of the shadow in a photovoltaic installation, which requires particular precautions in order to guarantee the maximum power possible under all operation conditions.
Using Partial Diagnoses for Sequential Model-Based Fault Localization ∗

In Model-Based Diagnosis settings, sequential diagnosis techniques can be applied in case the number of possible explanations for an unexpected behavior of a system is too large to be inspected manually. Such sequential approaches rely on additional measurements to isolate the true cause of the observed problem, usually in an iterative process. In order to speed up the typically computationally costly process of determining the next measurement point, we propose the new concept of “partial” diagnoses, which can be efficiently determined given a small number of minimal conflicts. We evaluate our proposal by comparing it with other domain-independent sequential diagnosis approaches on different benchmark problems. The results show that our new method helps to significantly reduce the required computation times.