Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
False Data Injection- and Propagation-Aware Game Theoretical Approach for Microgrids

Defending microgrids against cyberattacks has been recognized as a significant task in modern energy systems. This paper studies a False Data Injection Attack (FDIA) scenario targeting microgrids, in which the attacker maliciously propagates false data malware in the communication network of a microgrid system, aiming at misleading the microgrid’s operation. Firstly, this paper establishes the propagation and attack models for the false data malware; then, the impact of the FDIA is quantified through the formulation of a network-constrained microgrid dispatch model. Based on this, a false data malware propagation-aware game between the attacker and the defender is established and an effective computational approach is developed for solving the proposed game and obtaining the potential Nash equilibrium strategy pair. Extensive numerical simulations are conducted to validate the proposed framework.
Efektivitas Model Problem Based Learning dengan Mode Hybrid pada Pembelajaran Menulis Teks Editorial Siswa Kelas XII

Hybrid Learning menjadi pilihan utama saat pandemi namun belum teruji penerapannya terutama dengan menggunakan model problem based learning. Penelitian bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan efektivitas pembelajaran teks editorial dengan menggunakan metode problem based learning dengan moda hybrid siswa kelas XII SMA Muhammadiyah 2 Surabaya. Penelitian ini berjenis kuantitatif walau di dalamnya terdapat data kualitatif yang tidka mendominasi. Teknik pengumpulan data dilaksanakan dengan observasi dan tes. Data dianalisis dengan menggunakan statistik sederhana yaitu presentase dan presentasi indeks keberhasilan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan penerapan metode problem based learning dengan moda hybrid pada pembelajaran teks editorial sangat signifikan. Nilai rata-rata sebelum penerapan model/metode problem based learning dengan moda hybrid adalah 75, sedangkan sesudah menerapkan metode/model tersebut adalah 83. Pencapaian ini juga dipengaruh peran guru dalam memfasilitasi pembelajaran dengan menerapkan mempelajaran secara berkelompok dan juga menerapkan strategi teman sebaya.
Drivers of multi-decadal nitrate regime shifts in a large European catchment

Long-term monitoring shows evidence of persistent changes in the magnitude and timing of the seasonal pattern of nitrate concentrations in streams, with possibly grave effects on aquatic ecosystems. Seasonal patterns of stream nutrient concentrations are determined by a complex interplay of inputs, transport, and turnover. Over multi-decadal periods, each of these factors may change due to socio-economic factors such as consumption patterns, governance regimes, or technological control measures. Here we test the hypothesis that observed multi-decadal changes in stream nitrate seasonality could be explained by changes in the relative importance of catchment nutrient sources over time. We analyze 66 years of shifting nitrate seasonality in a large, central-European river (Elbe) during a period of significant socio-political changes (1954–2019), with correspondingly significant changes in the sources of anthropogenic nitrate emissions. We develop a mixed-source succession model to test how the multi-decadal evolution of the composition of nitrate sources (point and diffuse) influences in-stream seasonality. We show that the in-stream nitrate seasonality of the River Elbe changed significantly from a weak seasonal pattern with peak concentrations during summer in the 1950s to a strong seasonal pattern with peak concentrations during winter in the 1990s. We link these shifts to a succession of technical and political developments which influence the contribution of point and diffuse sources over time. Such shifts in seasonal concentration patterns can significantly impact the macronutrient (carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus) ratios in rivers, which in turn highly affect the health of aquatic ecosystems.
Towards a more sustainable waste management in Qatar: Retrofitting mindsets and changing behaviours

Historically, the peoples of Arabia have had a strong affinity with and respect for nature, recognising that their life depended on a mutually supportive relationship. The intertwined connections between people and nature included a reverence for camels that provide a dependable mode of transport across the harsh desert landscape; a deep affection for the majestic falcons that soared high above vast sand dunes in search of prey and a great pride in the saluki dog breed as a loyal and skilful hunting companion. Through the generations, nomadic and static tribes in the Gulf have learned to coexist with their hostile desert environment, following nature's path to water and fertile plains. And, while this bond endures, with the advent of oil wealth, which has brought with it unprecedented rates of development, it is a connection that at best is under strain and at worst on a catastrophic path as much desired rapid development brings with it demands on the environment and incursions into the landscape as never.
Quantitative Sodium (23Na) MRI in Pediatric Gliomas: Initial Experience

Background: 23Na MRI correlates with tumor proliferation, and studies in pediatric patients are lacking. The purpose of the study: (1) to compare total sodium concentration (TSC) between pediatric glioma and non-neoplastic brain tissue using 23Na MRI; (2) compare tissue conspicuity of bound sodium concentration (BSC) using 23Na MRI dual echo relative to TSC imaging. Methods: TSC was measured in: (1) non-neoplastic brain tissues and (2) three types of manually segmented gliomas (diffuse intrinsic brainstem glioma (DIPG), recurrent supratentorial low-grade glioma (LGG), and high-grade glioma (HGG)). In a subset of patients, serial changes in both TSC and BSC (dual echo 23Na MRI) were assessed. Results: Twenty-six pediatric patients with gliomas (median age of 12.0 years, range 4.9–23.3 years) were scanned with 23Na MRI. DIPG treated with RT demonstrated higher TSC values than the uninvolved infratentorial tissues (p < 0.001). Recurrent supratentorial LGG and HGG exhibited higher TSC values than the uninvolved white matter (WM) and gray matter (GM) (p < 0.002 for LGG, and p < 0.02 for HGG). The dual echo 23Na MRI suppressed the sodium signal within both CSF and necrotic foci. Conclusion: Quantitative 23Na MRI of pediatric gliomas demonstrates a range of values that are higher than non-neoplastic tissues. Dual echo 23Na MRI of BCS improves tissue conspicuity relative to TSC imaging.
Safety of Vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 among Polish Patients with Multiple Sclerosis Treated with Disease-Modifying Therapies

(1) Background: The present study aims to report the side effects of vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) who were being treated with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) in Poland. (2) Methods: The study included 2261 patients with MS who were being treated with DMTs, and who were vaccinated against COVID-19 in 16 Polish MS centers. The data collected were demographic information, specific MS characteristics, current DMTs, type of vaccine, side effects after vaccination, time of side-effect symptom onset and resolution, applied treatment, relapse occurrence, and incidence of COVID-19 after vaccination. The results were presented using maximum likelihood estimates of the odds ratio, t-test, Pearson’s chi-squared test, Fisher’s exact p, and logistic regression. The statistical analyses were performed using STATA 15 software. (3) Of the 2261 sampled patients, 1862 (82.4%) were vaccinated with nucleoside-modified messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines. Mild symptoms after immunization, often after the first dose, were reported in 70.6% of individuals. Symptoms included arm pain (47.5% after the first dose and 38.7% after the second dose), fever/chills/flu-like symptoms (17.1% after the first dose and 20.5% after the second dose), and fatigue (10.3% after the first dose and 11.3% after the second dose). Only one individual presented with severe side effects (pro-thrombotic complications) after vaccination. None of the DMTs in the presented cohort were predisposed to the development of side effects. Nine patients (0.4%) had a SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed despite vaccination. (4) Conclusions: Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 is safe for people with MS who are being treated with DMTs. Most adverse events following vaccination are mild and the acute relapse incidence is low.
Vitamin E and egg production in heat stressed laying hens

Egg production has long been known to be depressed in laying hens exposed to chronic periods of heat. Such conditions, experienced by layers during the summer months in Europe and all the year round in tropical countries, result in large economical losses to the poultry industry. The objective of the work described in this thesis was, firstly, to confirm that vitamin E has a beneficial effect on egg production in heat stressed laying hens and, secondly, to investigate the molecular basis of its effect. During exposure to a chronic period of heat (4 weeks at 32°C), egg production was improved in birds fed vitamin E-enriched diets. Distribution of a diet containing 250 mg vitamin E/kg diet before (4 weeks), during and after (8 weeks) the period of stress increased egg production by 12% (P<0.02) during and by 13% (P<0.02) in the four weeks following the stress compared to control birds (fed 10 mg vitamin E/kg diet). Egg formation involves the mutually dependent activities of the ovary (uptake of yolk precursors and synthesis of oestrogens) and of the liver (oestrogen induced-synthesis of yolk precursors). Neither heat stress nor vitamin E were found to have direct effects on the in vivo uptake of the main yolk precursor protein, vitellogenin, by oocytes or on the circulating concentration of 17p-oestradiol. Although the amount of vitellogenin messenger RNA in hepatocytes and vitellogenin protein in the circulation were significantly depressed during heat stress in non-supplemented birds, the concentration of vitellogenin protein in hepatocytes was dramatically increased in these birds (+63%, P<0.01) compared to pre-stress values. In vitamin E-supplemented birds, this accumulation of vitellogenin protein in hepatocytes did not occur and the circulating vitellogenin concentration was higher than in non-supplemented birds. It is therefore proposed that, during heat stress, vitamin E improved the export of vitellogenin from the liver into the circulation. This effect is probably related to the known antioxidant properties of vitamin E and to its consequent protective effect on the integrity of organelle and plasma membranes which is required for proper export of proteins through the secretory pathway.
Diabetic Bone Disease and Diabetic Myopathy: Manifestations of the Impaired Muscle-Bone Unit in Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is associated with complications affecting muscle and bone, with diabetic bone disease and diabetic myopathy becoming increasingly reported in the past few decades. This review is aimed at succinctly reviewing the literature on the current knowledge regarding these increasingly identified and possibly interconnected complications on the musculoskeletal system. Furthermore, this review summarizes several nonmechanical factors that could be mediating the development and progression of premature musculoskeletal decline in this population and discusses preventative measures to reduce the burden of diabetes on the musculoskeletal system.
Shooting Utility Maximization in UAV-Assisted Wireless Camera Sensor Networks

Recently, wireless camera sensor networks (WCSNs) have entered an era of rapid development, and WCSNs assisted by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are capable of providing enhanced flexibility, robustness and efficiency when executing missions such as shooting targets. Existing research has mainly focused on back-end image processing to improve the quality of captured images, but it has neglected the question of attaining quality images on the front-end, which is significantly influenced by the location and hovering time of the UAV. Therefore, in this paper, we conceive a novel shooting utility model to quantify shooting quality, which is maximized by simultaneously considering the UAV’s trajectory planning, hovering time and shooting point selection. To expound further, we prove the submodularity of the utility function, whereby the original problem can be expressed as a submodular maximization problem with path constraints, and we propose a utility-cost ratio (UCR) algorithm to maximize shooting utility through two-level optimization. Then, by using the relaxation of the cost function, we analyze the gap between the proposed algorithm and the optimal algorithm (OPT) and prove that the UCR algorithm has a bi-criterion approximation ratio of 1−1/e/2. Simulation results show that the algorithm outperforms both the random algorithm (RAN) and the maximum shooting utility point selection algorithm (MSU) in terms of shooting utility and time utilization efficiency, improving shooting utility by 51% and 21% compared to the RAN and MSU algorithms, respectively, and achieving at least 88.2% of the OPT algorithm in terms of time utilization efficiency.
Understanding the Driving Forces That Trigger Mutations in SARS-CoV-2: Mutational Energetics and the Role of Arginine Blockers in COVID-19 Therapy

SARS-CoV-2 is a global challenge due to its ability to mutate into variants that spread more rapidly than the wild-type virus. Because the molecular biology of this virus has been studied in such great detail, it represents an archetypal paradigm for research into new antiviral drug therapies. The rapid evolution of SARS-CoV-2 in the human population is driven, in part, by mutations in the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike (S-) protein, some of which enable tighter binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2). More stable RBD-ACE2 association is coupled with accelerated hydrolysis of furin and 3CLpro cleavage sites that augment infection. Non-RBD and non-interfacial mutations assist the S-protein in adopting thermodynamically favorable conformations for stronger binding. The driving forces of key mutations for Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, Kappa, Lambda and Omicron variants, which stabilize the RBD-ACE2 complex, are investigated by free-energy computational approaches, as well as equilibrium and steered molecular dynamic simulations. Considered also are the structural hydropathy traits of the residues in the interface between SARS-CoV-2 RBD and ACE2 protein. Salt bridges and π-π interactions are critical forces that create stronger complexes between the RBD and ACE2. The trend of mutations is the replacement of non-polar hydrophobic interactions with polar hydrophilic interactions, which enhance binding of RBD with ACE2. However, this is not always the case, as conformational landscapes also contribute to a stronger binding. Arginine, the most polar and hydrophilic among the natural amino acids, is the most aggressive mutant amino acid for stronger binding. Arginine blockers, such as traditional sartans that bear anionic tetrazoles and carboxylates, may be ideal candidate drugs for retarding viral infection by weakening S-protein RBD binding to ACE2 and discouraging hydrolysis of cleavage sites. Based on our computational results it is suggested that a new generation of “supersartans”, called “bisartans”, bearing two anionic biphenyl-tetrazole pharmacophores, are superior to carboxylates in terms of their interactions with viral targets, suggesting their potential as drugs in the treatment of COVID-19. In Brief: This in silico study reviews our understanding of molecular driving forces that trigger mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It also reports further studies on a new class of “supersartans” referred to herein as “bisartans”, bearing two anionic biphenyltetrazole moieties that show potential in models for blocking critical amino acids of mutants, such as arginine, in the Delta variant. Bisartans may also act at other targets essential for viral infection and replication (i.e., ACE2, furin cleavage site and 3CLpro), rendering them potential new drugs for additional experimentation and translation to human clinical trials.
A Proportional Scheduling Protocol for the OFDMA-Based Future Wi-Fi Network

The IEEE 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) and IEEE 802.11be (Wi-Fi 7) adopt the OFDMA technology to provide high-speed and uninterrupted communications in the dense network. Until the advent of IEEE 802.11ax standard, Wireless LAN (WLAN) predominantly uses the Random Access (RA) mechanism to access the network. IEEE 802.11ax and IEEE 802.11be (proposed) provide another access mechanism for WLAN (i.e., Wi-Fi), which is known as Scheduled Access (SA). This mechanism utilizes the OFDMA technology to provide highspeed and smooth communications in congested areas. By the way, the performance of the OFDMA based wireless LAN largely depends on the scheduling protocol. Many researchers propose RA and SA protocols independently, which do not consider the simultaneous implementation of both mechanisms. This paper proposes a Proportional Resource Scheduling (PRS) scheme for the OFDMA-based wireless LAN that simultaneously implements RA and SA mechanisms for data transmission. We design two algorithms for the resource scheduling for the PRS protocol. Algorithm 1 provides the initial scheduling information, which is received by Algorithm 2 as the input. After performing revision, Algorithm 2 provides the final scheduling information to the access point. The PRS distributes the channel resources proportionally to the stations according to their available loads. Thus, it utilizes the resources efficiently and increases the throughput and fairness in accessing the channel. We construct analytical models both for the SA and RA mechanisms and conduct rigorous simulations to measure the efficiency of the PRS protocol. The analyses validate the robustness of the proposed protocol in throughput, goodput, fairness, and retransmissions. The main contribution of the proposed protocol is that it provides a framework for simultaneous implementation of RA and SA mechanisms for the future wireless LAN.
Wireless communication research challenges for Extended Reality (XR)

Extended Reality (XR) is an umbrella term that includes Augmented Reality (AR), Mixed Reality (MR), and Virtual Reality (VR). XR has a tremendous market size and will profoundly transform our lives by changing the way we interact with the physical world. However, existing XR devices are mainly tethered by cables which limit users' mobility and Quality-of-Experience (QoE). Wireless XR leverages existing and future wireless technologies, such as 5G, 6G, and Wi-Fi, to remove cables that are tethered to the head-mounted devices. Such changes can free users and enable a plethora of applications. High-quality ultimate XR requires an uncompressed data rate up to 2.3 Tbps with an end-to-end latency lower than 10 ms. Although 5G has significantly improved data rates and reduced latency, it still cannot meet such high requirements. This paper provides a roadmap towards wireless ultimate XR. The basics, existing products, and use cases of AR, MR, and VR are reviewed, upon which technical requirements and bottlenecks of realizing ultimate XR using wireless technologies are identified. Challenges of utilizing 6G wireless systems and the next generation Wi-Fi systems and future research directions are provided.
Agro-economical Evaluation for Intercropping Sugar Beet and Barley under Combinations of Barley Cutting and Nitrogen Level Treatments

This study was conducted to investigate the agro-economic effect of intercropping sugar beet and barley under combinations of barley cutting and Nitrogen levels. Field trials conducted using a split plot design with three replications at the Farm of Gemmeiza Agricultural Research Station, Egypt during 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 seasons. Sugar beet planted on both sides of the bed and barley plant on the top of all beds at the rate of 25%of the sole culture. Sugar beet with companion barley under three cut treatments (no cut, cut before heading (C1) and cut after heading (C2)) and three nitrogen fertilization levels (80, 100 and 120kgN/feddan (feddan=4200m2)) were studied, as well as to study competitive relationships land equivalent ratio (LER). Results from this study revealed that cut and nitrogen treatments had significant (0.05%) effects on most traits of sugar beet and barley in both seasons. Significant cuts*N interaction effects were found for sugar beet and barley traits in both seasons. LER. were greater than unit (1.15 and 1.16) by intercropping sugar beet with barley under N fertilizer rate 120kg N/feddan with both no cut and C1. The effect of cuts and nitrogen interaction on LER across the two seasons increase the land usage. The highest yield advantage for RCC (89.49 and 73.54) was recorded with C1 at 120Kg N/feddan in both seasons respectively, indicating the effect of barley cuts and N fertilizer rates on yield and aggressivity (AG) values of sugar beet and barely. The highest values Total income (L.E.), Net return and economic return (L.E.) obtained from sugar beet under 120kgN rate * no cut or C1 treatments in both seasons. Agro-economically biplot graph recommended that intercropping barley with sugar beet under 120kg N rate * no cut or C1 drive the maximum values of productivity of sugar beet and competitive relationships and yield of both crops.
Prevalence and Clinical Features of Portopulmonary Hypertension in Patients With Hepatic Cirrhosis: An Echocardiographic Study

Objective The present study was conducted to delineate the prevalence and clinical features of portopulmonary hypertension in patients with hepatic cirrhosis. Possible associations between echocardiographic variables and portopulmonary hypertension were also explored. Methods A prospective, observational study was conducted between September 2017 and August 2018. Differences in demographics, clinical presentation, laboratory findings, and echocardiographic findings in cirrhosis patients with and without portopulmonary hypertension were compared. Results The prevalence of portopulmonary hypertension in patients with hepatic cirrhosis was found to be 9.3%. Hemoglobin was significantly lower among patients with portopulmonary hypertension compared to those without portopulmonary hypertension (5.50±0.68 g/dl vs. 7.26±1.43 g/dl, p=0.001). All patients with portopulmonary hypertension displayed right atrial (major: p=0.0001 and minor: p=0.001) and right ventricular (basal, p=0.0001; longitudinal, p=0.0001) dilation. Several variables such as right ventricular systolic pressure (p=0.0001), pulmonary artery diameter (major: p=0.0001; right: p=0.0001; and left: p=0.007), pulmonary vascular resistance (p=0.0001), tricuspid regurgitation (p=0.0001), pulmonary regurgitation peak pressure gradient (p=0.0001), pulmonary regurgitation end diastolic gradient (p=0.0001), left atrial dimension (major axis: p=0.002), left atrial volume (p=0.04), left ventricular outflow tract (p=0.001), inferior vena cava diameter (p=0.001), and inferior vena cava collapsibility (p=0.001) were higher in patients with portopulmonary hypertension compared to patients without portopulmonary hypertension. Conclusions The present study revealed a 9.3% prevalence of portopulmonary hypertension among patients with hepatic cirrhosis. Patients with portopulmonary hypertension displayed significantly lower haemoglobin levels, right and left ventricular dilation, and higher values of several echocardiographic variables as compared to those without portopulmonary hypertension.