Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A collocation methods based on the quadratic quadrature technique for fractional differential equations

In this paper, we introduce a mixed numerical technique for solving fractional differential equations (FDEs) by combining Chebyshev collocation methods and a piecewise quadratic quadrature rule. For getting solutions at each integration step, the fractional integration is calculated in two intervals-all previous time intervals and the current time integration step. The solution at the current integration step is calculated by using Chebyshev interpolating polynomials. To remove a singularity which belongs originally to the FDEs, Lagrangian interpolating technique is considered since the Chebyshev interpolating polynomial can be rewritten as a Lagrangian interpolating form. Moreover, for calculating the fractional integral on the whole previous time intervals, a piecewise quadratic quadrature technique is applied to get higher accuracy. Several numerical experiments demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed method and show numerically convergence orders for both linear and nonlinear cases.
Dynamic Cancer Cell Heterogeneity: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Implications

Simple Summary Cancer heterogeneity, which occurs in most cancer patients, has been known and studied by experienced pathologists since the early 19th century. Intratumoral heterogeneity between cancer cells can arise from complex genetic, epigenetic, and metabolic modifications under the influence of the tumor microenvironment and confers considerable adaptability to tumors. Despite major advances in cancer therapy, tumoral heterogeneity remains a major obstacle to the successful treatment of cancer. In this review, we highlight the role of intratumoral heterogeneity, focusing on the clinical and biological implications of this phenomenon. Abstract Though heterogeneity of cancers is recognized and has been much discussed in recent years, the concept often remains overlooked in different routine examinations. Indeed, in clinical or biological articles, reviews, and textbooks, cancers and cancer cells are generally presented as evolving distinct entities rather than as an independent heterogeneous cooperative cell population with its self-oriented biology. There are, therefore, conceptual gaps which can mislead the interpretations/diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. In this short review, we wish to summarize and discuss various aspects of this dynamic evolving heterogeneity and its biological, pathological, clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic implications, using thyroid carcinoma as an illustrative example.
Ectopic Expression of FVIII in HPCs and MSCs Derived from hiPSCs with Site-Specific Integration of ITGA2B Promoter-Driven BDDF8 Gene in Hemophilia A

Hemophilia A (HA) is caused by mutations in the coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) gene (F8). Gene therapy is a hopeful cure for HA; however, FVIII inhibitors formation hinders its clinical application. Given that platelets promote coagulation via locally releasing α-granule, FVIII ectopically expressed in platelets has been attempted, with promising results for HA treatment. The B-domain-deleted F8 (BDDF8), driven by a truncated ITGA2B promoter, was targeted at the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) locus of HA patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (HA-iPSCs). The F8-modified, human induced pluripotent stem cells (2bF8-iPSCs) were differentiated into induced hematopoietic progenitor cells (iHPCs), induced megakaryocytes (iMKs), and mesenchymal stem cells (iMSCs), and the FVIII expression was detected. The ITGA2B promoter-driven BDDF8 was site-specifically integrated into the rDNA locus of HA-iPSCs. The 2bF8-iPSCs were efficiently differentiated into 2bF8-iHPCs, 2bF8-iMKs, and 2bF8-iMSCs. FVIII was 10.31 ng/106 cells in lysates of 2bF8-iHPCs, compared to 1.56 ng/106 cells in HA-iHPCs, and FVIII was 3.64 ng/106 cells in 2bF8-iMSCs lysates, while 1.31 ng/106 cells in iMSCs with CMV-driven BDDF8. Our results demonstrated a high expression of FVIII in iHPCs and iMSCs derived from hiPSCs with site-specific integration of ITGA2B promoter-driven BDDF8, indicating potential clinical prospects of this platelet-targeted strategy for HA gene therapy.
Long-term outcomes of large artery thromboangiitis obliterans and comparison with small artery thromboangiitis obliterans

Abstract Although the distribution of arterial involvement is still the subject of controversy for defining the diagnostic criteria for thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO), several reports have described TAO involving the more proximal arterial segment. This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics and outcomes of large artery TAO in comparison with those of small artery TAO. Between January 2007 and July 2019, 83 consecutive symptomatic patients with a diagnosis of lower extremity TAO were stratified according to the most proximal arterial involvement, with the cutoff level of the adductor canal as a reference (large artery TAO versus small artery TAO), and analyzed retrospectively. The study outcomes included any amputations and major amputations. The large artery TAO group consisted of 30 patients (36.1%), and the small artery TAO group consisted of 53 patients (63.9%). In terms of clinical symptoms and signs, the proportion of major tissue loss (Rutherford class 6) was significantly higher among patients with large artery TAO than among those with small artery TAO (13.3% versus 0%, P = .02). Any amputation rate was similar between the large and small artery TAO groups during the median follow-up period of 148 months (range, 0–376 months) (43.3% versus 28.3%, P = .16). However, the major amputation rate was significantly higher among patients with large artery TAO (13.3% versus 0%, P = .02). On Kaplan–Meier survival analysis of the cumulative event-free rates, although there was a similar 10-year amputation-free survival rate (P = .24) between the 2 groups, the large artery TAO group had a significantly lower 10-year major amputation-free survival rate (P < .01) than the small artery TAO group. Large artery TAO is a limb-threatening condition and had a worse prognosis than small artery TAO.
EVALUATING THE IMPACTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE ON MOTIVATED CONSUMER INNOVATIVENESS

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of social media usage on motivated consumer innovativeness. For the related purpose, the Onikişubat district of Kahramanmaraş province of Turkey was chosen as the research universe. A field study was carried out on a sample selected by the convenience sampling method. An electronic questionnaire was filled by individuals who lives in the specified place. Statistical analyzes were carried out and interpreted on the data obtained from the 520 available questionnaires. According to one of the results, the social media usage rates, frequencies and competencies of the participants positively affect their motivated consumer innovativeness levels. In addition, it has been determined that the perceptions of the mentioned variables positively affect socially motivated consumer innovativeness levels. However, unlike other social media variables, social media usage competencies of individuals affect functionally motivated consumer innovativeness in a significant and positive way.
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor as Target for Perioperative Elimination of Circulating Colorectal Cancer Cells

Surgical resection of the tumor is the primary treatment of colorectal cancer patients. However, we previously demonstrated that abdominal surgery promotes the adherence of circulating tumor cells (CTC) in the liver and subsequent liver metastasis development. Importantly, preoperative treatment with specific tumor-targeting monoclonal antibodies (mAb) prevented surgery-induced liver metastasis development in rats. This study investigated whether the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) represents a suitable target for preoperative antibody treatment of colorectal cancer patients undergoing surgery. The majority of patients with resectable colorectal liver metastases were shown to have EGFR + CTCs. Three different anti-EGFR mAbs (cetuximab, zalutumumab, and panitumumab) were equally efficient in the opsonization of tumor cell lines. Additionally, all three mAbs induced antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP) of tumor cells by macrophages at low antibody concentrations in vitro, independent of mutations in EGFR signaling pathways. The plasma of cetuximab-treated patients efficiently opsonized tumor cells ex vivo and induced phagocytosis. Furthermore, neither proliferation nor migration of epithelial cells was affected in vitro, supporting that wound healing will not be hampered by treatment with low anti-EGFR mAb concentrations. These data support the use of a low dose of anti-EGFR mAbs prior to resection of the tumor to eliminate CTCs without interfering with the healing of the anastomosis. Ultimately, this may reduce the risk of metastasis development, consequently improving long-term patient outcome significantly.
The effects of ankle-foot orthoses with plantar flexion stop and plantar flexion resistance using rocker-sole shoes on stroke gait: A randomized-controlled trial

Objectives This study aims to evaluate the effect of two ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs), AFO with plantar flexion stop (AFO-PlfS), and AFO with plantar flexion resistance (AFO-PlfR), while wearing standard shoes and rocker-sole shoes. Patients and methods Between November 2017 and July 2018, in this randomized-controlled study, a total of 20 stroke patients (8 males, 12 females; mean age: 48.1 years; range, 33 to 65 years) in chronic phase were randomized to AFO groups (AFO-PlfS group, n=10 and AFO-PlfR group, n=10). Each group received the allocated AFO along with two kinds of shoes (standard shoe and rocker shoe) for a two-week adaptation. Two effects were separately evaluated: The orthotic effect and rocker shoe effect were defined as the evaluation of using an AFO wearing standard shoe compared to only standard shoe, and evaluation of using an AFO wearing rocker shoe compared to an AFO wearing standard shoe, respectively. The gait of each group was measured by three-dimensional motion analysis. Results A significant orthotic effect was found in both AFO groups in spatiotemporal parameters and maximum ankle dorsiflexion in the single-support phase. Additionally, the AFO-PlfR group showed a significant improvement in the parameters related to the first rocker of gait, but not for AFO-PlfS group concerning the orthotic effect. The rocker shoe effect was found in significant reduction of peak ankle plantar flexor moment and power ankle generation during preswing for both AFO groups. Conclusion According to the orthotic effect, an AFO-PlfR can create better function in the improvement of parameters related to the first rocker. Although a rocker shoe can facilitate rollover for weight progression in the third rocker of gait, it cannot make a strong push-off function in stroke survivors.
State-of-the-art review of fabrication, application, and mechanical properties of functionally graded porous nanocomposite materials

Abstract Functionally graded porous (FGP) nanocomposites are the most promising materials among the manufacturing and materials sector due to their adjustable physical, mechanical, and operational properties for distinctive engineering applications for maximized efficiency. Therefore, investigating the underlying physical and materialistic phenomena of such materials is vital. This research was conducted to analyze the preparation, fabrication, applications, and elastic properties of functionally graded materials (FGMs). The research investigated for both porous and nonporous synthesis, preparation, and manufacturing methods for ceramics, metallic, and polymeric nanocomposites in the first section, which is followed by deep research of the development of elastic properties of the above-mentioned materials. Main nano-reinforcing agents used in FGMs to improve elastic properties were found to be graphene platelets, carbon nanotubes, and carbon nanofibers. In addition, research studied the impact of nano-reinforcing agent on the elastic properties of the FGMs. Shape, size, composition, and distribution of nano-reinforcing agents were analyzed and classified. Furthermore, the research concentrated on modeling of FGP nanocomposites. Extensive mathematical, numerical, and computational modeling were analyzed and classified for different engineering analysis types including buckling, thermal, vibrational, thermoelasticity, static, and dynamic bending. Finally, manufacturing and design methods regarding different materials were summarized. The most common results found in this study are that the addition of reinforcement units to any type of porous and nonporous nanocomposites significantly increases materialistic and material properties. To extend, compressive and tensile stresses, buckling, vibrational, elastic, acoustical, energy absorption, and stress distribution endurance are considerably enhanced when reinforcing is applied to porous and nonporous nanocomposite assemblies. Ultimately, the review concluded that the parameters such as shape, size, composition, and distribution of the reinforcing units are vital in terms of determining the final mechanical and materialistic properties of nanocomposites.
The Use of High Initial Doses of Botulinum Toxin Therapy for Cervical Dystonia Is a Risk Factor for Neutralizing Antibody Formation—A Monocentric Cross-Sectional Pilot Study

Background and Objectives: The present study aims to analyze the complex patient/treating physician interaction at onset of botulinum toxin (BoNT) therapy in patients with idiopathic cervical dystonia (CD) and the influence of high initial doses on long-term outcomes. Materials and Methods: A total of 74 CD patients with well-documented courses of BoNT treatment were consecutively recruited after written informed consent. Patients had to rate the amount of improvement of CD in percent of severity of CD at onset of BoNT therapy. They had to draw the course of disease severity (CoD) of CD from the onset of symptoms until the onset of BoNT therapy and from the onset of BoNT therapy until recruitment. The remaining severity of CD was estimated by the treating physician using the TSUI score. Demographic- and treatment-related data were extracted from the charts of the patients. Seventeen patients with suspected secondary treatment failure (STF) were tested for the presence of antibodies. Results: Depending on the CoD before BoNT therapy, three patient subgroups could be distinguished: rapid onset, continuous onset and delayed onset groups. Time to BoNT therapy, increase in dose and improvement were significantly different between these three groups. In the rapid onset group, with the highest initial doses, the best improvement was reported, but the highest number of patients with an STF and with neutralizing antibodies was also observed. Conclusion: The use of high initial doses in the BoNT therapy of CD is associated with a rapid response and quick success; however, it leads to an elevated risk for the development of a secondary treatment failure and induction of neutralizing antibodies.
Clustering-based interference management in dense small cell networks with backhaul constraints

Small cell has been considered as a promising solution since it can improve coverage and system throughput. When a large number of small cells are overlapped, the limited backhaul capacity of the small cell and serious inter-cell interference become one of the major technical challenges. A clustering-based interference mitigation for dense small cell networks with backhaul constraints is investigated. The optimal problem which maximises the system capacity has been formulated. No-inter cluster and graph-based cluster are proposed, so as to reduce the inter-cell interference. Taking into account the chemical reaction optimisation and backhaul constraints, more interference could be mitigated and guarantee the limited backhaul. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed policy could enhance the system throughput.
Review of Chinese modern commercial buildings fire protection design parameters

Modern commercial buildings features large internal space, high floor, functional diversity, larger fuel and electricity load and so on, which increases fire hazard and evacuation difficulty.Three typical supermarkets and two comprehensive shopping malls in Shijiazhuang, China, were investigated, and crowd evacuation loads data and fire loads data were obtained based on the investigation. The data could be converted to basic design parameters as the initial crowd density and average fire loads density. The evacuee escape probability-density function based on the initial crowd density was established in this paper. The survey results showed that modern commercial buildings fire load densities obeyed lognormal distribution, and sometimes actual crowd density was larger than the design specification and it has greater change (0.55~1.05 ps.m-2). The crowd evacuation load and the fire load uneven distribution should be paid high attention in fire protection design. "Black house" experimental platform was designed based on investigation results in this paper, in which smoke environment was simulated by mixing 6% acetic acid in smoke generator. Evacuation efficiencies of traditional fire emergency lighting and evacuation indicating system and intelligent evacuation guidance system (IEGS) proposed in this paper were tested and verified in "black house".
Dynamic Beam Hopping for DVB-S2X GEO Satellite: A DRL-Powered GA Approach

Dynamic beam hopping (DBH) is a crucial technology for adapting to the flexibility of service configurations in multi-beam satellite (MBS) communications. To solve the problem that the traditional beam-hopping method is difficult to adapt to the dynamic satellite environment, Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) was proposed. DRL can use the previous information to make decisions at the current moment and thus has low time complexity. However, because the generalization ability of the existing DRL methods cannot fully meet dynamic changes in multi-beam satellite communications scenarios, it is difficult to obtain the optimal decision. To address this issue, this letter explores a new framework in which DRL-Powered genetic algorithm (GA) approach. The proposed method uses DRL to assist the decision of DBH. Comparing the proposed method with DRL and traditional GA, simulation results show that the proposed method has a better performance in throughput and fairness when adapting to changes in the satellite environment.
Traditional Foods From Maize (Zea mays L.) in Europe

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the major crops of the world for feed, food, and industrial uses. It was originated in Central America and introduced into Europe and other continents after Columbus trips at the end of the 15th century. Due to the large adaptability of maize, farmers have originated a wide variability of genetic resources with wide diversity of adaptation, characteristics, and uses. Nowadays, in Europe, maize is mainly used for feed, but several food specialties were originated during these five centuries of maize history and became traditional food specialties. This review summarizes the state of the art of traditional foodstuffs made with maize in Southern, South-Western and South-Eastern Europe, from an historic evolution to the last research activities that focus on improving sustainability, quality and safety of food production.
Serbian Traditional Goat Cheese: Physico-Chemical, Sensory, Hygienic and Safety Characteristics

This research project aimed to investigate the physico-chemical, sensory, hygienic and safety characteristics of raw goat milk, whey, brine and traditional goat cheese during the ripening period of 28 days. Physico-chemical parameters included the determination of dry matter, fat, ash, protein, pH, water activity and NaCl content. The presence of Enterobacteriaceae and fungi was estimated on milk and cheese samples, and a sensory panel evaluated the products’ features and acceptability during ripening. The results show that the cheese under study belongs to the acid full-fat cheese group. A consumer panel attributed high scores to the goat cheese, until the 21st day of ripening. After this period, the overall features altered significantly, including augmented bitterness, odor intensification and the development of molds on the surface. The presence of fungi, associated with Enterobacteriaceae, suggests that the hygiene of the production processes needs to be improved. Regarding microbial safety, the detection of putative pathogens and antibiotic resistances recommend an active surveillance of traditional foods to avoid foodborne infections and/or the dissemination of resistant microorganisms along the food chain.
Performance-based design of reinforced concrete bridge piers subjected to vehicle collisions

One of the leading causes of bridge failures within the United States is accidental vehicle collisions with the bridge pier. The focus of this research is to analyze the response of reinforced concrete bridge piers when subjected to a vehicle collision. A parametric study is performed to observe the different degrees of shear and flexure failure in a pier with respect to pier diameter, transverse reinforcement spacing and vehicle impact velocity. The finite element software LS-DYNA was used to conduct the performed work. Material models, contact algorithms and modeling methods were first validated by recreating reinforced concrete beam impact experiments. In addition, an in depth analysis was performed investigating the internal forces generated within the impact beams with respect to differential steel reinforcement layouts. Once the models were calibrated and validated, the reinforced concrete bridge piers were constructed. The Ford F800 reduced vehicle model obtained from the National Crash Analysis Center and the National Transportation Research Center, Inc. was used in the study. The bridge pier collision models were then validated once more by comparing vehicle damage and impact forces with published experimental and numerical research results. In order to ensure stability within the impact simulations, the conservation of energy of the systems were closely monitored. This study shows that the overall failure mode of the pier was dependent on the pier diameter and the transverse reinforcement ratio governed the extent of localized damage experienced within the pier. The impacting vehicles kinetic energy had the most profound effects on the magnitude of internal forces generated within the pier. A performance-based design approach is proposed which allows a designer to design a bridge pier in a simplistic manner with the use of damage ratios that relate to certain amounts of damage.
Forschende und ihre Daten. Ergebnisse einer österreichweiten Befragung – Report 2015

This report provides an overview of the Austria-wide survey for research data, which was carried out within the framework of the project e-Infrastructures Austria at the beginning of 2015. This survey was directed at the scientific and artistic-scientific personnel of 20 public universities and three extramural research institutions in Austria.