Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effects of celebrity athlete endorsement on attitude towards the product: the role of credibility, attractiveness and the concept of congruence

This research addresses how the fit between celebrity athlete endorsers and the endorsed products may influence product attitudes. The findings reveal that participants evaluated an endorsed product more favourably when the fit between the celebrity athlete endorser and the endorsed product was congruent (vs incongruent; Experiment 1). Furthermore, participants in the high concept of congruence condition evaluated the endorsed product more favourably than those in the low concept of congruence condition only when the fit between the celebrity athlete endorser and the endorsed product was incongruent (Experiment 2).
On half-BPS states of the ABJM theory

We analyze SU(2) invariant half-BPS states of the 3d, N = 8 or N = 6 SCFT within the radial quantization of the ABJM theory [1], the theory proposed to describe N M2-branes in the R 3 × C 4 /Zk background. After studying the classical moduli space of these configurations, we explicitly construct a set of gauge invariant operators involving ’t Hooft monopole operators corresponding to these states. We show there is a one–to–one correspondence between the two sets carrying R-charge J and that they are labeled by Young tableaux of J boxes with a maximum of N rows. Restricting the full path integral to this half-BPS sector of the theory, we show the latter is described in terms of N fermions in a 2d harmonic potential in the sector of vanishing angular momentum. The same classification, though in the N → ∞ limit, arise from the plane-wave (BMN) Matrix theory as well as the 11 dimensional LLM bubbling geometries [2], providing supportive evidence for the ABJM theory and/or the Matrix model.
Investigational cell cycle inhibitors in clinical trials for bladder cancer

Introduction: Cancer-related cell cycle defects are often mediated by alterations in activity of diverse cell cycle regulators. The development of cell cycle inhibitors has undergone a gradual evolution, and new investigational drugs have been extensively tested as a single agent or combination with conventional chemotherapeutic drugs. Areas covered: This review covers a broad perspective of how the cell cycle is deregulated in bladder cancer and discusses the clinical trials of cell cycle inhibitors. Expert opinion: Although diverse cell cycle inhibitors have been considered as relevant drug candidates for cancer therapy owing to their potential role in restoring control of the cell cycle, these inhibitors have not been yet widely tested in human bladder cancer. Numerous studies already reported that deregulation of cell cycle controls has been commonly observed in bladder cancer cells, thus warranting clinical trials of these inhibitors in advanced bladder cancer patients. In addition, nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) show different clinical and molecular biological characteristics, although ∼ 10 – 20% of NMIBC will progress to MIBC. Therefore, adequate cell cycle inhibitors have to be chosen for bladder cancer treatment based on the different genetic features between NMIBC and MIBC related to cell cycle regulators.
Stochastic Model of Integrin-Mediated Signaling and Adhesion Dynamics at the Leading Edges of Migrating Cells

Productive cell migration requires the spatiotemporal coordination of cell adhesion, membrane protrusion, and actomyosin-mediated contraction. Integrins, engaged by the extracellular matrix (ECM), nucleate the formation of adhesive contacts at the cell's leading edge(s), and maturation of nascent adhesions to form stable focal adhesions constitutes a functional switch between protrusive and contractile activities. To shed additional light on the coupling between integrin-mediated adhesion and membrane protrusion, we have formulated a quantitative model of leading edge dynamics combining mechanistic and phenomenological elements and studied its features through classical bifurcation analysis and stochastic simulation. The model describes in mathematical terms the feedback loops driving, on the one hand, Rac-mediated membrane protrusion and rapid turnover of nascent adhesions, and on the other, myosin-dependent maturation of adhesions that inhibit protrusion at high ECM density. Our results show that the qualitative behavior of the model is most sensitive to parameters characterizing the influence of stable adhesions and myosin. The major predictions of the model, which we subsequently confirmed, are that persistent leading edge protrusion is optimal at an intermediate ECM density, whereas depletion of myosin IIA relieves the repression of protrusion at higher ECM density.
Effects of quipazine and m-chlorophenylbiguanide (m-CPBG) on the discrimination of durations: evidence for the involvement of 5-HT2A but not 5-HT3 receptors

The ability of rats to discriminate durations of exteroceptive stimuli is disrupted by 5-HT1A receptor agonists; it is not known whether temporal discrimination is sensitive to stimulation of other 5-HT receptor subtypes. We examined the effect of quipazine, a 5-HT receptor agonist with nanomolar affinity for 5-HT3 receptors and micromolar affinity for 5-HT2A receptors, and m-chlorophenylbiguanide (m-CPBG), a selective 5-HT3 receptor agonist, on temporal discrimination. Twenty-four rats pressed levers for sucrose reinforcement under a discrete-trials psychophysical procedure. In each 50-s trial, a light was presented for t s, following which two levers (A and B) were presented. A response on A was reinforced if t<25 s, and a response on B if t>25 s. Logistic psychometric functions were fitted to the data, and timing parameters estimated (T50: value of t corresponding to %B=50; Weber fraction: [T75−T25]/2T50, where T75 and T25 are values of t corresponding to %B=75 and %B=25). Quipazine (0.5–2 mg/kg) displaced the psychometric curve to the right and reduced its slope, reflected in increases in T50 and the Weber fraction; m-CPBG (2.5–10 mg/kg) had no effect. The effects of quipazine were reversed by the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist ketanserin (2 mg/kg) but not by the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist topanyl 3,5-dichlorobenzoate (MDL-72222) (1 mg/kg). The results indicate that 5-HT2A but not 5-HT3 receptor stimulation disrupts temporal discrimination.
Proposals of Co-occurrence Frequency Image Based Filters

We have discussed that the co-occurrence frequency image (CFI) defined based on the co-occurrence frequency histogram of the gray value of an image has a potential to introduce a new scheme for image feature extraction. This paper proposes a couple of filters for image enhancements of such as sharpening and smoothing filters. These filters are very similar to but quite different from those which have been used so far. Thus we could show a possibility for introducing a new paradigm for basic image enhancement filters based on CFI.
Qualities of Eventiveness

Events are not a discrete linguistic phenomenon. Different verbal and nominal predicates express different degrees of eventiveness. In this paper we analyze the qualities that contribute to the overall eventiveness of a predicate, that is, what makes a predicate an event. We provide an in-depth analysis of seven key qualities, along with experimental assessments demonstrating their contributions. We posit that these qualities are an important part of a functional working definition of events.
A method for quantitative evaluation of audio quality over packet networks and its comparison with existing techniques

We have recently proposed a novel, non–intrusive, real– time approach to measuring the quality of an audio (or speech) stream transmitted over a packet network. The proposed approach takes into account the diversity of the factors which affect audio quality, including encoding parameters and network impairments. The goal of this method is to overcome the limitations of the quality assessment techniques currently available in the literature, such as the low correlation with subjective measurements, or the need to access the original signal, which precludes real–time applications. Our approach correlates well with human perception, it is not computationally intensive, does not need to access the original signal, and can work with any set of parameters that affect the perceived quality, including parameters such as FEC, which are usually not taken into account in other methods. It is based on the use of a Random Neural Network (RNN), which is trained to assess audio quality as an average human being. In this paper we compare the performance of the proposed method with that of other assessment techniques found in the literature.
Safeguarding Ecosystem Services: A Methodological Framework to Buffer the Joint Effect of Habitat Configuration and Climate Change

Ecosystem services provided by mobile agents are increasingly threatened by the loss and modification of natural habitats and by climate change, risking the maintenance of biodiversity, ecosystem functions, and human welfare. Research oriented towards a better understanding of the joint effects of land use and climate change over the provision of specific ecosystem services is therefore essential to safeguard such services. Here we propose a methodological framework, which integrates species distribution forecasts and graph theory to identify key conservation areas, which if protected or restored could improve habitat connectivity and safeguard ecosystem services. We applied the proposed framework to the provision of pollination services by a tropical stingless bee (Melipona quadrifasciata), a key pollinator of native flora from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest and important agricultural crops. Based on the current distribution of this bee and that of the plant species used to feed and nest, we projected the joint distribution of bees and plants in the future, considering a moderate climate change scenario (following IPPC). We then used this information, the bee’s flight range, and the current mapping of Atlantic Forest remnants to infer habitat suitability and quantify local and regional habitat connectivity for 2030, 2050 and 2080. Our results revealed north to south and coastal to inland shifts in the pollinator distribution during the next 70 years. Current and future connectivity maps unraveled the most important corridors, which if protected or restored, could facilitate the dispersal and establishment of bees during distribution shifts. Our results also suggest that coffee plantations from eastern São Paulo and southern Minas Gerais States could suffer a pollinator deficit in the future, whereas pollination services seem to be secured in southern Brazil. Landowners and governmental agencies could use this information to implement new land use schemes. Overall, our proposed methodological framework could help design novel conservational and agricultural practices that can be crucial to conserve ecosystem services by buffering the joint effect of habitat configuration and climate change.
Measurement of regional N‐Acetylaspartate after transient global ischemia in gerbils with and without ischemic tolerance: An index of neuronal survival

We investigated the correlation between N‐acetylaspartate (NAA) level and neuronal density in the hippocampal CA1 region of the brain after occlusion of both common carotid arteries for 5 minutes and reperfusion for 3 hours to 4 weeks in gerbils with and without ischemic preconditioning (tolerance). Animals were divided into four groups—the sham operated group, the nonpreconditioning (non‐p) group, the single‐preconditioning (single‐p) group with 2‐minute ischemia once 2 days before 5‐minute ischemia, and the double‐preconditioning (double‐p) group with 2‐minute ischemia twice 2 days before 5‐minute ischemia (n = 6 for each group). The CA1 region was dissected out from freeze‐dried sections for high‐performance liquid chromatographic assay of NAA, and adjacent sections were stained with cresy1 violet for measurement of the neuronal density. Both NAA (pmol/μg dry weight) and the neuronal density (cells/mm) decreased in the non‐p group after 3 days (NAA = 24.0 ± 3.0; neuronal density = 65 ± 38 cells/mm) and 7 days (NAA = 17.9 ± 2.5; neuronal density = 20 ± 15 cells/mm) and in the single‐p group after 7 days (26.4 ± 3.0, 106 ± 30) compared with the control group (NAA = 32.9 ± 3.0; neuronal density = 203 ± 9 cells/mm). There was no decrease in the double‐p group. The NAA level and the neuronal density showed a good linear correlation. The regional NAA level may be used as an index of neuronal viability.
Impact of Endoscopic Suturing of the Gastroesophageal Junction on Lower Esophageal Sphincter Function and Gastroesophageal Reflux in Patients with Reflux Disease

OBJECTIVES:Plication of the gastroesophageal junction by endoscopic suturing has been reported to improve symptoms and reduce acid exposure in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The mechanisms underlying these effects are not well defined. The aims of our study were to determine the impact of endoscopic suturing of the gastroesophageal junction on lower esophageal sphincter (LES) function in patients with GERD.METHODS:In 15 patients (7 males) with GERD (heartburn, % time esophageal pH < 4 greater than 4%, ± history of erosive esophagitis within 6 months), two plications were performed circumferentially 1 cm below the gastroesophageal junction. Endoscopy and combined postprandial esophageal manometry and pH monitoring were performed before and 6 months after treatment; 24-h ambulatory pH monitoring and symptom assessment were also performed before, and at 6 and 12 months after treatment.RESULTS:Six months after treatment, the rate of transient LES relaxations (tLESRs) was decreased by 37% (p < 0.05) and basal LES pressure had increased from 4.3 ± 2.2 mmHg to 6.2 ± 2.1 mmHg (p < 0.05). The rate of postprandial reflux events and acid exposure time were not altered. Endoscopic suturing significantly reduced 24-h esophageal acid exposure from 9.6% (9.0–12.1) to 7.4% (3.9–10.1) at 6 months, due predominantly to a reduction in upright acid exposure. The reduction in total 24-h acid exposure was sustained to 12 months. At repeat endoscopy, only one plication was evident in 6 patients (40%) at 6 months. Seven patients (47%) remained off medications at 6 and 12 months follow-up.CONCLUSIONS:In patients with GERD, endoscopic suturing of the gastroesophageal junction results in a reduction in the rate of tLESRs, and an increase in basal LES pressure. These changes in LES function result in only a modest reduction in gastroesophageal reflux.
Delusions : Investigations Into The Psychology Of Delusional Reasoning

Concept of Delusion Definitions Irrationality Occurrence of delusions in schizophrenia and other disorders Types of delusion On distinguishing delusions from obsessions and hallucinations Accessing (or assessing) delusions Delusions as beliefs Delusions and behaviour Reasoning, Rationality and Delusions Theories of reasoning and rationality Experimental studies of reasoning in normals Studies of Reasoning in People with Psychosis Reasoning in people with delusions Reasoning in schizophrenic subjects The Assessment of Delusion Instruments for assessing delusions Personal questionnaire Techniques for assessing delusions Methods Results Discussion Measures to assess responsivity of delusions to evidence Characteristics of Delusional Experience Method Results Discussion Theories of the Formation and Maintenance of Delusions Early theories of delusion formation Current theories A Bayesian model of the formation and maintenance of delusions Other considerations Reasoning in People with Delusions A pilot study Reasoning in deluded patients Reasoning about Delusions The reasoning about delusions Structured interview study: method Results Discussion Towards a Model of Delusion Formation Concepts and definitions of delusions Towards a model of delusion formation A case example Delusions and schizophrenia research.
Worst case analysis of decentralized Kalman filters under communication constraints

Decentralized Kalman filters are often used in multi-sensor target tracking as such a distributed fusion architecture has several advantages compared with centralized ones. On the other hand, distributed fusion is not only conceptually more complex but the required bandwidth is also likely to be a lot higher. However, a tradeoff between bandwidth and performance is possible. In this work, the worst case performance degradation due to a reduction in communication rate between the processing nodes of a decentralized Kalman filter is derived analytically and verified by simulations.
A Multi-Level Cache Framework for Remote Resource Access in Transparent Computing

With the increasing demand for high performance of remote resource access in transparent computing, there is a requirement to design a multi-level cache framework to alleviate the network latency. Existing cache frameworks in CPU and web systems cannot be applied simply because the remote resource access architecture needs to be extended to support multi-level cache, and the ways that resources are accessed in transparent computing require specific designs. In this article, we propose a multi-level cache framework for remote resource access in transparent computing. Based on the low latency feature of edge computing, we extend the remote resource access architecture to an architecture with multi-level caches by setting caches on the edge devices with low network latency. Then we design a hybrid multi-level cache hierarchy and make corresponding cache policies. Through a case study, we show the effectiveness of our design. Finally, we discuss several future research issues for deploying the proposed multi-level cache framework.
A Peer-to-Peer Based Semantic Agreement Approach for Information Systems Interoperability

This paper focuses on P2P based data management and semantic mediation. We propose an approach based on a P2P for semantic interoperability of information sources that aims to combine the advantages of semantic mediation and peer-to-peer systems. It is based on a pure P2P with super peer architecture consisting of two types of peers. The super peer contains a reference ontology, which provides a common ontology (CO) of the domain. The peer contains export schema (ES), which represent local data. The approach based on semantic agreement between CO and ES, which called half agreement (HA). The half-agreements utilize for discovery sources and exchange information among peers.
High prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in oral mucosal lesions of patients at the Ambulatory of Oral Diagnosis of the Federal University of Sergipe, Northeastern Brazil

Abstract The role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in oral carcinogenesis is still controversial as detection rates of the virus in oral cavity reported in the literature varies greatly. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of HPV infection and its genotypes in patients with oral lesions at the Ambulatory of Oral Diagnosis of the Federal University of Sergipe, Brazil. Material and Methods We conducted a molecular study with 21 patients (15 females) aged from two to 83 years with clinically detectable oral lesions. Samples were collected through exfoliation of lesions and HPV-DNA was identified using MY09/11 and GP5+/6+ primers. Genotyping was performed by multiplex PCR. Results Benign, premalignant and malignant lesions were diagnosed by histopathology. HPV was detected in 17 samples. Of these, HPV-6 was detected in 10 samples, HPV-18 in four and HPV-16 in one sample. When samples were categorized by lesion types, HPV was detected in two papilloma cases (2/3), five carcinomas (5/6), one hyperplasia (1/1) and nine dysplasia cases (9/11). Conclusion Unlike other studies in the literature, we reported high occurrence of HPV in oral lesions. Further studies are required to enhance the comprehension of natural history of oral lesions.
Comparing the effects of exercise program and low-level laser therapy with exercise program and polarized polychromatic non-coherent light (bioptron light) on the treatment of lateral elbow tendinopathy.

BACKGROUND DATA The use of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and polarized polychromatic non-coherent light as supplements to an exercise program has been recommended for the management of lateral elbow tendinopathy (LET). OBJECTIVE To investigate whether an exercise program supplemented with LLLT is more successful than an exercise program supplemented with polarized polychromatic non-coherent light in treating LET. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients with unilateral LET for at least 4 wk were sequentially allocated to receive either an exercise program with LLLT or an exercise program with polarized polychromatic non-coherent light. The exercise program consisted of eccentric and static stretching exercises of wrist extensors. In the LLLT group a 904-nm Ga-As laser was used in continuous mode, and the power density was 130 mW/cm(2), and the dose was 0.585 J/point. In the group receiving polarized polychromatic non-coherent light the Bioptron 2 was used to administer the dose perpendicularly to the lateral epicondyle at three points at an operating distance of 5-10 cm for 6 min at each position. The outcome measures were pain and function and were evaluated at baseline, at the end of the treatment (week 4), and 3 mo after the end of treatment (week 16). RESULTS Fifty patients met the inclusion criteria. At the end of treatment there was a decline in pain and a rise in function in both groups compared with baseline (p < 0.0005 on the paired t-test). There were no significant differences in the reduction of pain and the improvement of function between the groups at the end of treatment and at the 3-mo follow-up (p > 0.0005 on the independent t-test). CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that the combination of an exercise program with LLLT or polarized polychromatic non-coherent light is an adequate treatment for patients with LET. Further research to establish the relative and absolute effectiveness of such a treatment approach is needed.
Behind the palm: Hand gesture recognition through measuring skin deformation on back of hand by using optical sensors

We propose a system consisting of a wearable device equipped with photo-reflective sensors arranged in an array. Hand gestures are recognized by measuring the skin deformation of the back of the hand. Since the muscles and bones on the back of the hand are linked to the fingers, finger movement can be clearly observed. Skin deformation is measured using several photo-reflective sensors. Skin deformation can be determined by measuring the distance between the device and skin with these sensors. The system estimates hand gestures with a support vector machine using the sensor data. Since this system simultaneously records the hand shape using Leap Motion in the learning phase, a user can freely register gestures. The system further displays a reconstructed digital hand as a gesture-recognition result.