Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Early-Stage Lung Adenocarcinoma MDM2 Genomic Amplification Predicts Clinical Outcome and Response to Targeted Therapy

Simple Summary Invasive subtypes of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) show MDM2 amplification that is associated with poor survival. Mouse double minute 2 (MDM2) is frequently amplified in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and is a negative regulator of p53, which binds to p53 and regulates its activity and stability. Genomic amplification and overexpression of MDM2, together with genetic alterations in p53, leads to genomic and genetic heterogeneity in LUAD that represents a therapeutic target. In vitro assays in a panel of LUAD cell lines showed that tumor cell response to MDM2-targeted therapy is associated with MDM2 amplification. Abstract Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths in both men and women, accounting for one-quarter of total cancer-related mortality globally. Lung adenocarcinoma is the major subtype of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and accounts for around 40% of lung cancer cases. Lung adenocarcinoma is a highly heterogeneous disease and patients often display variable histopathological morphology, genetic alterations, and genomic aberrations. Recent advances in transcriptomic and genetic profiling of lung adenocarcinoma by investigators, including our group, has provided better stratification of this heterogeneous disease, which can facilitate devising better treatment strategies suitable for targeted patient cohorts. In a recent study we have shown gene expression profiling identified novel clustering of early stage LUAD patients and correlated with tumor invasiveness and patient survival. In this study, we focused on copy number alterations in LUAD patients. SNP array data identified amplification at chromosome 12q15 on MDM2 locus and protein overexpression in a subclass of LUAD patients with an invasive subtype of the disease. High copy number amplification and protein expression in this subclass correlated with poor overall survival. We hypothesized that MDM2 copy number and overexpression predict response to MDM2-targeted therapy. In vitro functional data on a panel of LUAD cells showed that MDM2-targeted therapy effectively suppresses cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in cells with MDM2 amplification/overexpression but not in cells without MDM2 amplification, independent of p53 status. To determine the key signaling mechanisms, we used RNA sequencing (RNA seq) to examine the response to therapy in MDM2-amplified/overexpressing p53 mutant and wild-type LUAD cells. RNA seq data shows that in MDM2-amplified/overexpression with p53 wild-type condition, the E2F → PEG10 → MMPs pathway is operative, while in p53 mutant genetic background, MDM2-targeted therapy abrogates tumor progression in LUAD cells by suppressing epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) signaling. Our study provides a potentially clinically relevant strategy of selecting LUAD patients for MDM2-targeted therapy that may provide for increased response rates and, thus, better survival.
Anti-Thrombotic Effects of Artesunate through Regulation of cAMP and PI3K/MAPK Pathway on Human Platelets

Normal activation of platelets and their aggregation are crucial for proper hemostasis. It appears that excessive or abnormal aggregation of platelets may bring about cardiovascular diseases such as stroke, atherosclerosis, and thrombosis. For this reason, finding a substance that can regulate platelet aggregation or suppress aggregation will aid in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Artesunate is a compound extracted from the plant roots of Artemisia or Scopolia, and its effects have shown to be promising in areas of anticancer and Alzheimer’s disease. However, the role and mechanisms by which artesunate affects the aggregation of platelets and the formation of a thrombus are currently not understood. This study examines the ways artesunate affects the aggregation of platelets and the formation of a thrombus on platelets induced by U46619. As a result, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) production were increased significantly by artesunate relative to the doses, as well as phosphorylated vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R), substrates to cAMP-dependent kinase and cGMP-dependent kinase, in a significant manner. The Ca2+, normally mobilized from the dense tubular system, was inhibited due to IP3R phosphorylation from artesunate, and phosphorylated VASP aided in inhibiting platelet activity via αIIb/β3 platelet membrane inactivation and inhibiting fibrinogen binding. In addition, MAPK and PI3K/Akt phosphorylation was inhibited via artesunate in a significant manner, causing the production of TXA2 and intracellular granular secretion (serotonin and ATP release) to be reduced. Therefore, we suggest that artesunate has value as a substance that inhibits platelet aggregation and thrombus formation through an antiplatelet mechanism.
Spatiotemporal Distribution of Homogalacturonans and Hemicelluloses in the Placentas, Ovules and Female Gametophytes of Utricularia nelumbifolia during Pollination

Utricularia nelumbifolia is a large carnivorous plant that is endemic to Brazil. It forms an extra-ovular female gametophyte, which surpasses the entire micropylar canal and extends beyond the limit of the integument and invades the placenta tissues. Due to the atypical behavior of the female gametophyte, it is interesting to determine the interaction between the gametophyte and sporophytic tissue. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the role of the placenta, the ovular tissues, the hypertrophied central cell and the integument in guiding the pollen tube in Utricularia nelumbifolia Gardner by studying the distribution of homogalacturonans and hemicelluloses. It was also determined whether the distribution of the homogalacturonans (HG) and hemicelluloses in Utricularia are dependent on pollination. The antibodies directed against the wall components (anti-pectin: JIM5, JIM7, LM19, LM20 and the anti-hemicelluloses: LM25, LM11, LM15, LM20, LM21) were used. Because both low- and high-esterified HG and xyloglucan were observed in the placenta, ovule (integument, chalaza) and female gametophyte of both pollinated and unpollinated flowers, the occurrence of these cell-wall components was not dependent on pollination. After fertilization, low methyl-esterified HGs were still observed in the cell walls of somatic cells and female gametophyte. However, in the case of high-esterified HG, the signal was weak and occurred only in the cell walls of the somatic cells. Because xyloglucans were observed in the cell walls of the synergids and egg cells, this suggests that they play a role in sexual reproduction. Utricularia nelumbifolia with an extra ovule-female gametophyte is presented as an attractive model for studying the male-female dialogue in plants.
Dietary Total Antioxidant Capacity Is Inversely Associated with Prediabetes and Insulin Resistance in Bialystok PLUS Population

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the dietary total antioxidant capacity (DTAC) and occurrence of prediabetes, diabetes and insulin resistance in the Bialystok PLUS (Polish Longitudinal University Study) population. Daily food consumption was estimated by 3-days 24-h dietary recalls. DTAC was calculated using the date of food consumption and antioxidant potential of foods measured by FRAP (ferric ion reducing antioxidant potential) method. The following measurements were performed to identify prediabetes, diabetes and HOMA-IR: fasting glucose (FG), 2h postprandial glucose level (2h-PG), fasting insulin (FI), glycated hemoglobin HbA1c. Logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between DTAC and prediabetes and diabetes. This study demonstrated that higher quartile of DTAC, after adjustment for confounding variables, was significantly associated with a reduced odds ratio for the prevalence of prediabetes in Bialystok PLUS population aged 35–65 years. DTAC was also significantly inversely associated with HOMA-IR in multivariate linear regression model. DTAC was positively related to individual dietary antioxidants (polyphenols, antioxidant vitamins and minerals). Reduced DTAC may be considered as an additional risk factor for the development of diabetes. Therefore, dietary recommendations for prevention and therapy of diabetes should take into account the high DTAC.
The Regulatory Role of the Central and Peripheral Serotonin Network on Feeding Signals in Metabolic Diseases

Central and peripheral serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) regulate feeding signals for energy metabolism. Disruption of central 5-HT signaling via 5-HT2C receptors (5-HT2CRs) induces leptin-independent hyperphagia in mice, leading to late-onset obesity, insulin resistance, and impaired glucose tolerance. 5-HT2CR mutant mice are more responsive than wild-type mice to a high-fat diet, exhibiting earlier-onset obesity and type 2 diabetes. High-fat and high-carbohydrate diets increase plasma 5-HT and fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF21) levels. Plasma 5-HT and FGF21 levels are increased in rodents and humans with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and non-alcohol fatty liver diseases (NAFLD). The increases in plasma FGF21 and hepatic FGF21 expression precede hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, and weight gain in mice fed a high-fat diet. Nutritional, pharmacologic, or genetic inhibition of peripheral 5-HT synthesis via tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (Tph1) decreases hepatic FGF21 expression and plasma FGF21 levels in mice. Thus, perturbing central 5-HT signaling via 5-HT2CRs alters feeding behavior. Increased energy intake via a high-fat diet and/or high-carbohydrate diet can upregulate gut-derived 5-HT synthesis via Tph1. Peripheral 5-HT upregulates hepatic FGF21 expression and plasma FGF21 levels, leading to metabolic diseases such as obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and NAFLD. The 5-HT network in the brain–gut–liver axis regulates feeding signals and may be involved in the development and/or prevention of metabolic diseases.
"USER PROFILING IN CYBERSECURITY EDUCATION AND TRAINING"

This research aims to improve the cybersecurity learning process, by stressing the need for examining the particular characteristics and motivations of participants of cybersecurity education/training programs. We highlight the importance of user profiling in the cybersecurity educational process and particularly the necessity for well-structured user models to support the profiling process. Furthermore, we propose and implement a user profiling module for platforms which conduct adaptive educational programs in cybersecurity, considering the specific participants’ skillset.
MODELLING SEISMIC RECORD AND SOIL TEST RESULT BY NEURAL COMPUTING WITH GENETIC ALGORITHM

Earthquakes are natural hazards which occur quite often worldwide every year, and the recorded data sets can be used to analyse the characteristics of seismic response in a specified region. In this study, a genetic algorithm based neural network model is developed to improve the reliability of predicting peak ground acceleration, the key element to evaluate earthquake response and to setup seismic design standard. Three seismic parameters including local magnitude, epicentre distance, and epicenter depth, are taken in the input layer for developing the fundamental estimation model. Then, two geological conditions including standard penetration test value and shear wave velocity, are added for developing a new model to reflect the site response more adequately. Based on the earthquake records and soil test data from 86 checking stations within 24 seismic subdivision zones in Taiwan area, the computational results show that the combination of using neural network and genetic algorithm can achieve a better performance than that of using neural network model solely. This preferred model can be extended to predict peak ground acceleration at unchecked sites, and can be applied to check the design standard in building code. This study may provide a new approach to solve this type of earthquake related nonlinear problem.
Digital interventions with families-a case study

This article discusses the responses developed in Portugal during the state of emergency by a family empowerment and intervention team and how this team actively integrated contingency plans and challenges through information and communication technology (ICT). We also explain what was learned during this period and what could have been done better. The family empowerment intervention teams of this organization are specialized multidisciplinary teams that act from a transdisciplinary perspective to teach parenting skills to families to ensure that the rights of their children and adolescents are guaranteed. These teams’ interventions normally take place in the home environment. However, the state of emergency meant that this procedure had to be adapted by incorporating digital practices, while home visits and consultations were carried out only in emergencies and other duly justified situations. The result of this experience was extremely positive in terms of the relationships established with the families and couples, the skills developed, and the resilience shown by all.
Exploring GPU Architectural Optimizations for RNNs

GPUs have been widely adopted for the training of Deep Learning applications employing Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs). However, Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) based applications, such as those for Natural Language Processing and Speech and Text Recognition, are becoming increasingly popular but have received significantly less attention. RNNs possess a different set of characteristics than CNNs, such as serialization between time-steps and the need to remember recent events, and are unable to take advantage of many of the common GPU hardware and software optimizations for CNNs. To overcome this, we propose holistic changes to the design of GPUs to optimize them for RNNs.
Strength Properties of Lightweight Foamed Concrete with the Presence of Additives

Foamed concrete was established for void filling and insulation purposes, but the interest is progressively changing towards structural characteristics in today’s society. This paper describes the results of experimental study that have been performed to investigate the effects of different densities and additives on the mechanical properties foamed concrete. Additionally, control foamed concrete samples with different densities (500kg/m3, 1000kg/m3 and 1500kg/m3) and different additives were prepared independently to study the impacts of densities and additives on the mechanical properties correspondingly. The foamed concrete specimens were prepared with locally available materials which are fuel ash, polypropylene fiber, silica fume and coconut fiber. This study has revealed that the compressive strength of foamed concrete was affected by its density due to the percentage of porosity. On the other hand, it was found that foamed concrete sample with coconut fiber yield better enhancement of the mechanical properties. Coconut fiber as reinforcement in foamed concrete is adequate and has high failure strain which can be able to provide a better compatibility between fibers and matrix. Output from this research would give better understanding of the potential utilization of waste by-products and natural fibres in foamed concrete. Foamed concrete can be used as a new energy-conservation and environmental-protection building material, particularly suitable for the construction of monolithic building envelope in Malaysia.
EVALUATION OF ACTIVE TECTONICS OF THE SOHREIN FAULT ZONE USING MORPHOMETRY AND GEOMAGNETIC SURVEY

In this study, mechanism and geometry of the Sohrein Fault zone, located in the North West of Zanjan, is investigated. Before this study, the ~75-km-long Sohrein Fault was supposed as a main seismogenic source of the region. Nearly eighty percent of the fault length was mapped based on subtle geomorphic features in late Quaternary deposits. Discovering true surficial extend, geometry and mechanism of this fault is thus a major interest for seismic hazard assessment in the Zanjan region and surrounding areas. These objectives were achieved by a combination of neotectonic and geophysical studies. The interplay of tectonic activity and erosion was investigated through field investigation and morphometric analyses. Two geomorphic indices of stream gradient index (SL) and valley width-to-height ratio (Vf) were evaluated using satellite imageries and digital elevation models (DEMs). The geomorphic response of streams in related to tectonic activity do not changes along the while length of the fault. Shallow geometry of the fault was investigated using magnetic survey, induced polarization and resistivity methods. The evidence of Quaternary faulting and even the shallow expression of the fault zone is not distinguished by these geophysical studies. The only effect of faulting is seen in induced polarization method along a small part (<4 km) of the active sector of the Sohrein Fault. These two lines of evidence suggest that the linear Quaternary risers previously interpreted as the surface trace of the Sohrein Fault are likely the landforms produced by retrogressive erosion in fluvial terraces around the Zanjan Rud River. This can be easily formed after a regional change in the base level of the river.
Microencapsulation of Bifidobacterium animalis and Lactobacillus casei using resistant starch from Vigna unguiculata

x Chapter 1: Introduction . 1 Chapter 2: Literature Review . 3 2.1. Gut microbiota and human health . 3 2.2. Prebiotics and Probiotics . 5 2.2.1. Prebiotics . 6 2.2.2. Probiotics . 7 2.3. Microencapsulation . 9 2.3. 1. Common microencapsulation techniques . 12 2.3. 2. Common wall materials used for microencapsulation . 14 2.4. Starch as a wall material for microencapsulation of probiotics . 17 2.4. 1. Resistant Starch . 21 2.4. 2. Types of resistant starch . 21 2.4. 3. Factors affecting the resistance of starch . 22 2.4. 4. Understanding the mechanism of the prebiotic effects of resistant starch . 23 2.4. 5. Fermentation of resistant starch and microcapsules . 25 2.5. Legumes . 27 2.5. 1. Vigna unguiculata . 28 Chapter 3: Physicochemical and structural characterization of resistant starch isolated from Vigna unguiculata . 30 Abstract . 30. 30 3.
Kaizen implementation in oil field project development process in PT. CPI

Drilling new wells is an important activity to arrest production decline in every oil company, no difference in PT.Cahaya Putera Indonesia (CPI). The project development process cycle time is critical to make sure the team can deliver the quantity of new wells proposals.Activities in the project development process need to be revisited and evaluated to deliver most value and eliminate non-adding value activities.During the value stream mapping approximately 50% of the activities are considered redundant thus is waste to the whole process.Much of the analysis can be done in a centralized manner and then used it to multiple projects instead of keep re-inventing the wheels in every project.Kaizen implementation have reduced phase 1-3 cycle time by 36%, 36% and 11 % respectively.In this research, Kaizen implementation was only to reduce cycle time for first three phases.It was not intended to improve decision quality of each project.Future analysis could add six sigma efforts to CPDEP to increase quality decision of projects.
The correlated effects of genetic selection for growth on reproductive fitness

Vi Chapter 1 General introduction 1 1.1 Reproductive fitness . 2 1.1.1 The effects of growth and body composition . 9 1.1.2 The effect of inbreeding . 13 1.2 The aims of this study . 15 Chapter 2 Litter size as a correlated trait in inbred mouse lines 16 2.
Partisan Cheating & Competing: The Effect of Partisan Competition on Tolerance of Election Cheating

American government takes the approach that highly competitive practices, such as elections, are the best way to represent the will of voters. However, in an era of hyperpartisanship and high negative out-party affect, it is worth examining the negative effects that salient partisan competition has on people’s attitudes. Specifically, I find that when partisans perceive elections to be “neck and neck” (i.e., partisan competition is salient), they tolerate co-partisan electoral cheating while harshly enforcing rules when their opposing political party engages in the same election cheating. Using an original survey experiment, I investigate the effects of salient partisan competition on people’s tolerance of election cheating and endorsement of political norms and values of fairness. After manipulating salience of partisan competition, I measured participants’ tolerance of election cheating that fosters an electoral advantage to either (randomly assigned) their in-party or out-party as well as measuring participants’ endorsement of democratic values of fairness. Although partisans selectively tolerate election cheating depending on which party benefits when partisan competition is not salient, I find that greater salience of partisan competition increases participants’ tolerance of election cheating when their their in-party stands to benefit and decreases participants’ tolerance of election cheating when their their out-party stands to benefit. Conversely, I do not find that salience of partisan competition affects people’s endorsement of political values of fairness despite this differing effect of tolerance of cheating by party benefit. I discuss these findings in the context of democratic government and the connection to modern partisan animus. These results have important implications regarding democratic health as partisans are not willing to apply democratic norms of fairness under competitive circumstances. Last, I conclude with a discussion of democratic governmental structure and how changes representative democracies could reduce partisan conflict and double standards. PARTISAN CHEATING & COMPETING 3
Design and Fabrication of Gradient Index Artificial Electromagnetic Medium Based on 3D Printing

： A novel method will be proposed to realize the integrated design and fabrication of the micro- and macro- structures for the artificial electromagnetic (EM) medium driven by the physical properties of the devices. The mapping relations between feature parameters of the unit cell and the effective permittivity as well as index of the artificial medium have been established with the photonic crystal structures in metamaterial regime. Using these mapping relations, artificial EM medium with gradient index has been designed controllably. Based on the theoretical calculation, the EM wave carpet cloak and black hole are designed with the gradient index artificial medium. These complicated 3D EM devices have been fabricated by using 3D printing process with the photo-curable resin as the raw material. Experimental results show the broadband properties in the Ku frequency range (12-18 GHz) and the controllable transmission for the EM wave in the free space. The possibility to fabricate the EM devices using artificial medium has been demonstrated by the present research, and these will be the foundation for the further industrial applications of 3D printing in EM field.