bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short- and Long-term Outcomes of Robotic-assisted Versus Video-assisted Thoracoscopic Lobectomy in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Aged 35 Years or Younger: A Real- world Study with Propensity-score Matched Analysis
Authors: Pan Hanbo , Zhang Jiaqi , Tian Yu , Zou Ningyuan , Zhu Hongda , Gu Zenan , Jin Weiqiu , Ning Junwei , Jiang Long , Huang Jia , Luo Qingquan
Published: March 2023

Purpose
This study compared short- and long-term outcomes of robotic-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (RATS) versus video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for lobectomy in young adults aged ≤ 35 years with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), aiming to assess the superiority of RATS over VATS for this special group of patients.
Methods
A total of 1355 consecutive NSCLC cases aged 18–35 years undergoing RATS (n = 105) or VATS (n = 1250) between 2014 and 2021 were retrospectively identified from a prospectively maintained database. Propensity-score matching (PSM) was applied to establish a 1:3 RATS versus VATS ratio. Baseline clinicopathological characteristics, perioperative outcomes, lymph node (LN) assessment, and long-term survival were investigated.
Results
Following PSM, 105 and 315 cases were in the RATS and VATS groups, respectively. RATS led to a shorter postoperative hospital stay than VATS (4 [3–4] vs 4 [3–5] days, p = 0.02). The two groups were comparable in other perioperative outcomes and postoperative complications (all p > 0.05). Moreover, RATS assessed more LNs (9.4 ± 4.4 vs 8.3 ± 3.6, p = 0.03), especially N1 LNs (4.2 ± 3.1 vs 3.5 ± 2.2, p = 0.02), than VATS. By comparison, no difference in 5-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) or overall survival (OS) was found between the two groups (all p > 0.05). Further subgroup analyses also observed similar long-term outcomes between the two groups in terms of age, gender, and smoking history. Finally, Cox’s analyses found that the surgical approach was not independently correlated with RFS or OS.
Conclusion
RATS shortened postoperative hospital stay, assessed more N1 and total LNs, and achieved comparable long-term outcomes to VATS for very young NSCLC patients.
A multi-agent collaborative algorithm for task-oriented dialogue systems
Authors: Sun Jingtao , Kou Jiayin
Published: March 2023

In recent years, reinforcement learning has been successfully applied to dialogue systems. However, in the face of task-oriented dialogue systems where policies are difficult to optimize, states are difficult to track, and tasks are multiple and compound, task-oriented dialogue systems based on reinforcement learning have problems such as poor collaboration, non-unique learning goals, and non-stationarity due to the lack of collaboration among agents. In this paper, we propose a multi-agent cooperative dialogue (MACD) algorithm for task-oriented dialogue systems, in which, for the information interaction between multi-agent in task-oriented dialogue systems, a deep neural network approach is used to integrate the observations of multiple single agents and obtain joint observations to achieve information sharing among single agents, to solve the non-stationarity caused by the lack of joint information of multi-agent. For multi-agent policy learning task-oriented dialogue systems, the multi-agent deep deterministic policy gradient (MADDPG) architecture is applied to the policy selection of task-oriented dialogue systems to solve the problem of lack of joint policy learning of multi-agent in task-oriented dialogue systems; the observation integration of single agents and multi-agent policy learning are effectively combined to solve the problem of poor multi-agent collaboration in task-oriented dialogue systems. By verifying and analyzing reinforcement learning algorithms such as MACD, REINFORCE, DQN, and QMIX in the MultiWOZ corpus, the experimental results show that the algorithms effectively improve the success rate of multi-agent working together to complete dialogue tasks, reduce the number of invalid dialogues in dialogue turns, and outperform common reinforcement learning algorithms in terms of agents' information interaction and joint policy learning in the composite task dialogue scenario.
Prediction of clear cell renal cell carcinoma prognosis based on an immunogenomic landscape analysis
Authors: Wang Chengwei , Zhang Xi , Zhu Shiqing , Hu Bintao , Deng Zhiyao , Feng Huan , Liu Bo , Luan Yang , Liu Zhuo , Wang Shaogang , Liu Jihong , Wang Tao , Wu Yue
Published: March 2023

Immune-cell infiltration and tumor-related immune molecules play a key role in tumorigenesis and progression. It remains to be systematically studied how immune interactions influence clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) molecular characteristics and prognosis. A machine learning algorithm was applied to transcriptome data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database in order to determine the immunophenotypic and immunological characteristics of ccRCC patients. These algorithms included single-sample gene set enrichment analyses and cell type identification. By using bioinformatics techniques, we examined the prognostic potential and regulatory networks of immune-related genes (IRGs) involved in ccRCC immune interactions. Fifteen IRGs (CCL7, CHGA, CMA1, CRABP2, IFNE, ISG15, NPR3, PDIA2, PGLYRP2, PLA2G2A, SAA1, TEK, TGFA, TNFSF14, and UCN2) were identified as prognostic IRGs associated with overall survival and were applied to construct a prognostic model. According to further analysis, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve at one year was 0.927, but at three years was 0.822, and at five years, it was 0.717, indicating good predictive accuracy. It was also discovered that ccRCC immune interactions are governed by molecular regulatory networks. Additionally, we developed a nomogram containing the model and clinical characteristics with high prognostic potential. By systematically examining the sophisticated regulatory mechanisms, molecular characteristics, and prognostic potential of ccRCC immune interactions, we have provided an important framework for understanding ccRCC's molecular mechanisms and identifying new prognostic markers and therapeutic targets for future research.
Drought and herbivory as modulators of intraspecific differentiation in seedlings of a mountain tree
Authors: Marcora Paula Inés , Zeballos Sebastián Rodolfo , Ferreras Ana Elisa , Arias Gonzalo , Hensen Isabell , Tecco Paula Andrea
Published: March 2023

In mountain ecosystems, plant regeneration might be constrained by multiple factors that change along elevation gradients. Those factors might influence the expression of different traits among populations. Drought and herbivory are strong filters for seedling establishment and, therefore, important selective pressures. Populations of the tree Maytenus boaria support lower soil moisture and higher herbivory pressure at low elevations than at mid-elevations in Córdoba Mountains, central Argentina. Consequently, we expect that populations from the low elevation perform better in response to both factors than populations from mid-elevations. Seedlings from the two elevation origins were exposed to two levels of simulated drought and herbivory in a greenhouse experiment. The selected elevations corresponded to the lowest edge of species distribution (with driest soils and highest herbivory pressure) and the central mid-elevation. Performance-related variables, biomass allocation patterns and several morphological and physiological traits were measured. Seedlings from the low origin showed lower mortality, leaf number and water potential in response to drought than seedlings from the mid-origin. Herbivory affected the performance of seedlings and many plant traits, irrespective of the origin. The interaction between drought and herbivory increased the drought effects on some variables. Seedlings of M. boaria from the low elevation, where conditions are drier and warmer, provide more drought-tolerant offspring than those from the cooler and moister mid-elevation.
Light Reduction, Banding, and IBA Treatments Influence Adventitious Rooting of Lindera benzoin Stem Cuttings
Authors: Stokes Caroline , Bassuk Nina , Miller Brandon
Published: March 2023

An investigation was undertaken to determine whether various light reduction and shoot banding treatments could increase rooting on stem cuttings of Lindera benzoin [(L.) Blume] (northern spicebush), a difficult-to-root woody plant. Stock plants were grown under one of three light conditions (light, shade, or etiolation). Emerging shoots received either no treatment or a banding treatment that involved adhering a hook-and-loop fastener coated with varying concentrations of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) around the shoot base to create a localized etiolated zone before taking cuttings. Data on rooting percentage and number of roots per cutting were analyzed using logistic and Quasi-Poisson regression, respectively. Etiolated cuttings treated with a band without IBA had the highest rooting probability and number of roots; however, etiolated cuttings across all banding treatments had similarly successful results. Additionally, there were several significant differences in rooting probabilities and root numbers between banding treatments within the shade- and light-grown groups. This research evaluated asexual propagation approaches for use with northern spicebush and provides a framework for the adoption and development of this taxon as a nursery crop.
Teaching College Physics to the K to 12 Program Graduates: Teachers’ Experiences and Perspectives
Authors:   Science and Mathematics Education Department, College of Education, Eastern Visayas State University, Tacloban City, Philippines 6500, Fulminar Louie Paul D.
Published: March 2023

This qualitative research explored the experiences of university professors and instructors in teaching College Physics to the K to 12 Program graduates. The data were obtained from Physics professors and instructors from various state universities in Eastern Visayas through semi-structured interviews. Using Colaizzi’s method of data analysis, five themes regarding the issues and challenges were generated. These themes are: STEM versus non-STEM graduates; students’ lack of knowledge and poor conceptual understanding; challenges in teaching problem solving; challenges in conducting laboratory activities; and negative perception towards physics. In each of the issues and challenges, corrective measures were employed by the participants. Recommendations addressed to various stakeholders were also sought from them. Results reveal that there is a lack of readiness for the K to 12 Program graduates to take on the College Physics course and there are serious learning gaps between Physics education in higher education and K to 12 Basic Education curricula. The results of this study can guide the concerned individuals in the educational sector in making ways to establish continuity and progression in learning Physics.
Enhancement of chiral edge currents in ($d$+1)-dimensional atomic Mott-band hybrid insulators
Authors: Ferraretto Matteo , Richaud Andrea , Del Re Lorenzo , Fallani Leonardo , Capone Massimo
Published: March 2023

We consider the effect of a local interatomic repulsion on synthetic
heterostructures where a discrete synthetic dimension is created by
Raman processes on top of SU(N)SU(N)-symmetric
two-dimensional lattice systems. At a filling of one fermion per site,
increasing the interaction strength, the system is driven towards a Mott
state which is adiabatically connected to a band insulator. The chiral
currents associated with the synthetic magnetic field increase all the
way to the Mott transition, where they reach the maximum value, and they
remain finite in the whole insulating state. The transition towards the
Mott-band insulator is associated with the opening of a gap within the
low-energy quasiparticle peak, while a mean-field picture is recovered
deep in the insulating state.
The propagator matrix reloaded
Authors: Melo João F.
Published: March 2023

The standard way to perform calculations for quantum field theories
involves the S-matrix and the assumption that the theory is free at past
and future infinity. However, this assumption may not hold for field
theories in non-trivial backgrounds such as curved spacetimes or finite
temperature. In fact, even in the simple case of finite temperature
Minkowski spacetime, there are a lot of misconceptions and confusion in
the literature surrounding how to correctly take interactions into
account when setting up the initial conditions. The objective of this
work is to clear up these misconceptions and provide a clean and simple
derivation of a formalism which includes interactions in the initial
conditions and assesses whether or not it is legitimate to ignore them.
The ultimate conclusion is that we cannot ignore them: quantum field
theories at finite temperature are not free in the infinite past.
The Impact of Technological Factors on the Air Phase of Defrosted Fermented-Milk Desserts
Authors: Gurskiy Igor , Tvorogova Antonina
Published: March 2023

Whipped desserts made of fermented milk are very popular. They also make it possible to expand the range of functional products. The consumer properties of defrosted desserts depend on the air phase. This research featured the impact of different formulations and methods on the dispersion of the air phase in the process of defrosting fermented-milk desserts.

The study featured several samples of whipped fermented desserts. Sample 1 contained gelatin; Sample 2 contained pectin. Samples 1 and 3 had different contents of fermented foundation while Samples 3 and 5 differed in the amount of gelatin stabilizer. Sample 4 contained a whey protein concentrate. The dispersion of structural elements was measured using microstructural methods.

The experiments included the quality parameters of mixes, as we ll as the dispersion of air phase in the frozen state and after 24 h of storage at 4 ± 2°C. The viscosity of the sample with pectin exceeded that with gelatin by 3.8 times. Extra whey protein increased the viscosity by 4.4 times and the overrun – by 1.4 times. In the whey protein sample, the average diameter of air bubbles was 36 μm after 24 h of storage at 4 ± 2°C and 50 μm after 12 months, while in the sample without protein it was 48 and 86 μm, respectively. Sample 3, which had a greater fermentation, demonstrated a smaller average diameter of air bubbles (by 21 μm) after 24 h of storage than the sample with yogurt. The sample with extra gelatin increased the overrun by 1.3 times and negatively affected the dispersion of the air phase. After 24 h of storage, the average diameter of the air bubbles in the sample with an increased content of stabilizer was higher by 27 μm. The air phase was less stable in the sample with pectin.

The research established the effect of gelling agents, whey protein concentrates, and fermented foundation on the dispersion and stability of the air phase in fermented-milk desserts. Pectin appeared to have a negative effect on the air phase during defrosting and caused excessive condensation and drainage. The increasing amount of fermented base and gelatin, as well as the use of whey protein concentrates, increased the stability of the air phase during 24 h of storage at 4 ± 2°C. The research results could be used to develop new production technologies of overrun fermented desserts and their preservation in the defrosted state.
Trace Elements in Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus): Exposure Routes
Authors: Kaledin Anatoly , Stepanova Marina , Ostapenko Vladimir
Published: March 2023

Urbanization leads to chemical pollution. Contaminants accumulate in feed and enter animal body through digestive tract. Numerous studies have established that the level of mineral content in the environment reflects the technogenic load on the territory and is transmitted in the system through products of plant and animal origin, which can be used to prevent and correct elementoses.

This research featured feathers of Indian peafowls Pavo cristatus (n = 33), diet components (n = 303), their drinking water (n = 94), soil (n = 123), and snow (n = 204). The micro-elemental profile was defined using an atomic absorption spectrometer. The samples were obtained from zoological institutions of Mosco w, Ivanovo, and Yaroslavl.

As for the feathers, the average Zn accumulation level was 122.74 ± 9.64 mg/kg, Cu – 5.36 ± 0.05 mg/kg, Fe – 508.06 ± 56.84 mg/kg, Pb – 6.75 ± 1.13 mg/kg, Cd – 1.65 ± 0.26 mg/kg, and As – 0.61 ± 0.23 mg/kg. The variability of the concentration of microelements in the sample was as follows, %: Zn – 73.9, Cu – 94.3, Fe – 111.6, Pb – 150.0, Cd – 136.88, and As – 203.87. The average levels of accumulation of elements in the biological media decreased in the following order: Fe > Zn > Cu > Pb > Cd > As. The share of Zn in the total of all determined elements was 0.7–48.0%, Cu – 0.04–2.8%, Fe – 46.2–92.8%, Pb – 0–2.5%, Cd – 0–2.5%, and As – 0–4.6%. The diet analyses showed the following results for Moscow, Ivanovo, and Yaroslavl, respectively: Zn – 11.35, 6.60, and 2.50 mg; Cu – 2.29, 0.75, and 0.41 mg; Fe – 55.83, 30.54, and 6.78 mg; Pb – 0.14, 0.18, and 0.01 mg; Cd – 0.02, 0.01, and 0.005 mg; As – 0.04, 0.02, and 0.002 mg. If the birds consumed all the food they received, the approximate total daily intake of the selected essential microelements Zn was 16.7–75.7% of the recommended daily intake, Cu – 13.7–76.3%, and Fe – 48.4–398.79%. Pb, Cd and As stayed within the daily norm. The oral route of intake was registered for Zn, Cu, and Fe in Yaroslavl and for Cd in all samples. Inhalation was registered as the main route of intake for Fe in Moscow and Ivanovo, as well as for As and Pb in Moscow. The highest intake of Pb was registered in Ivanovo and Yaroslavl.

The analysis revealed the multi-route and multi-environment exposure of urban birds to microelements, including heavy metals. The level of concentration of essential microelements in the biological media depended on the diet. Fe in Moscow and Ivanovo and As in all the samples came from the soil cover, which had a high content of these elements. The gross content of Pb in the soil samples from Moscow and the drinking water from Yaroslavl and Ivanovo demonstrated the greatest impact on the avian organism. The snow samples had the least effect on the el emental status of the bioenvironments.
Conversion of Wheat Bran into Target Biosynthetic Products
Authors: Pogorelova Natalya , Gavrilova Natalya
Published: March 2023

A more efficient bioconversion of renewable plant resources is a priority in modern biotechnology. An important aspect of the processing and pretreatment of cellulose raw materials is to obtain a high content of reducing substances in the final product. The present research objective was to determine the optimal conditions for the chemical transformation of plant polymers to obtain biologically valuable substances. The research results will reduce the final cost of biotechnological production. This research featured wheat bran polymers treated with sulfuric acid and relied on a set of standard research methods. The degree of polymer conversion was tested on native and mechanically activated wheat bran fractions of 600, 200, and 100 microns. The kinetics of the high-temperature chemical hydrolysis was as follows: temperature – 120–130°C, sulfuric acid concentration – 0.6–0.9%, treatment time – 30–60 min, hydromodule – 1:8;9;10. The quantitative and qualitative composition of mono- and disaccharides of hydrolysates was determined using the high performance liquid chromatography method. The composition of wheat bran showed a low content of lignin (7.55%) and a high content of pentosans (17.9%). The highest content of reducing substances in hydrolysates was 640 mg/g bran. The optimal technological conditions with the highest content of reducing substances were as follows: hydromodulus – 1:10, temperature – 120°C, treatment time – 45 min, and sulfuric acid concentration – 0.9%. The greatest change in the content of mono- and disaccharides of hydrolysates belonged to pentoses: 78.2 mg/g of bran (in terms of xylose). The amount of easily hydrolysable carbohydrates and wheat bran fiber decreased by 80 and 19%, respectively. This research revealed the optimal parameters for the chemical hydrolysis of wheat bran to obtain biologically valuable carbohydrates. This area of research can be of practical use for producers of biofuels, chemicals, and food additives.
Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Soy Protein
Authors: Sokolov Dmitry , Bolkhonov Bulat , Zhamsaranova Sesegma , Lebedeva Svetlana , Bazhenova Bayana
Published: March 2023

Soy continues to be one of the top sources of vegetable protein. Structurally modified soy proteins and processed products are used as part of functional foods. Enzymatic hydrolysates of food proteins have different degrees of hydrolysis and functional profiles, hence the constant search for the optimal hydrolysis parameters. The present research objective was to design a two-stage enzymatic conversion process of soy protein using mathematical methods, as well as to evaluate the antioxidant properties of the hydrolysate in laboratory conditions.

Soy protein isolate was tested to define the maximal value of the hydrolysis degree. It underwent a series of two-factor experiments in the presence of pepsin and trypsin. The study focused on the hydrolysis time and the enzyme-substrate ratio. The results were optimized using the response surface methodology in MathCad 15. The total antioxidant activity of the hydrolysate during hydrolysis was determined on a Tsvet-Yauza-01-AA chromatograph using the amperometric method.

For the pepsin test, the processing time was 7 h and the enzyme-to-substrate ratio was 1:22. For the trypsin test, the time was 7 h and the ratio was 1:30. The mathematical modeling revealed the following optimal parameters. The first stage involved hydrolysis with pepsin for 5 h at an enzyme-to-substrate ratio of 1:20; the second stage involved hydrolysis with trypsin for 3 h at an enzyme-to-substrate ratio of 1:19. The resulting hydrolysate demonstrated 88% hydrolysis. The highest summary antioxidant activity was registered after 5 h of hydrolysis and amounted to about 250 mg/100 mL.

The resulting enzymatic hydrolysate of soy protein can be used as a food component or an antioxidant feed additive. The obtained peptides can immobilize essential microelements, e.g., Zn, I, and Se, as well as produce polyvalent complexes. Further studies will be aimed at the residual antigenicity of the hydrolysate and other functional indicators.
Micro-Ingredient Markets and Their Impact on the Sustainability of Food Systems
Authors: Kazantseva Elena , Lyamkin Igor
Published: March 2023

Commercial micro-ingredients of certain types are a gap in the Russian food industry. This article describes the Russian market for micro-ingredients, their impact on the sustainability of domestic food systems, and state support prospects.

The study featured the development of micro-ingredient markets in the context of sustainable food systems. It relied on the theory of world-system analysis, as well as on the methods of comparative and statistical analyses. The materials were obtained from the Federal State Statistics Service, the Federal Customs Service, the Russian Export Center, and various rating and information agencies, including publically available data from the UN, the FAO, and the Union of Food Ingredients Producers.

The authors assessed the impact of micro-ingredient markets on the sustainability of food systems and the effect of global and domestic market trends on the demand and supply of micro-ingredients. When strategizing state support for domestic producers of micro-ingredients, government should proceed from the availability of raw materials and competition. The article introduces a comparative analysis of the Russian market of flavoring agents, which includes both foreign and domestic producers, and the Russian market of citric acid, represented solely by Chinese companies. In the first case, the government should support the existing domestic producers and strengthen their positions in the Russian markets, with prospects for foreign market penetration. In the second case, the Russian food industry has to launch domestic products able to occupy the Russian market and defeat the powerful foreign competitors that are ready to use dumping. The analysis also revealed the main directions of state support for the domestic production of competitive micro-ingredients and their components.

The results can be used to strategize state support measures for the domestic micro-ingredients in order to improve food security and the stability of the Russian food system to external shocks.
Estimation of contamination release histories using meshless radial point collocation method and multiverse optimization
Authors: Anshuman Aatish , Eldho T. I.
Published: March 2023

Contaminants in groundwater may enter through various sources which are required to be identified for informed decision-making regarding remediation. In early stages of contamination of an aquifer, the sources of contamination are generally unknown. To estimate the unknown release histories at potential sources, the governing equations of contaminant transport are solved backwards in time which renders the inverse problem as ill-posed. Furthermore, due to measurement or operational errors, observed breakthrough curves can be noisy which can induce uncertainty. Simulation-optimization (SO) techniques are generally used for solving the inverse model. Nevertheless, swarm population-based optimization algorithms may get trapped in local optima in the nonlinear search space related to the problem. In this study, SO model based on meshless radial point collocation method (RPCM) and multiverse optimizer (MVO) is proposed. MVO implements gradual transformation from global exploration to local exploitation phase which helps in better estimation of unknowns. The performance of RPCM-MVO-SO model is compared with two other SO models developed by combining RPCM with grey wolf optimizer and particle swarm optimization in two case studies. The proposed model performs better compared to the other two SO models considered which suggests the efficacy of the model for release history estimation in groundwater.
Three-phase data augmentation for the prediction of sediment flux in mountain basins during typhoon events
Authors: Ho Hao-Che , Chan Kun-Che , Chang Shu-Hao , Huang Cheng-Chia
Published: March 2023

Discrepancies between estimated sediment and actual yields are large. The sedimentation often causes severe damage due to a lack of on-site measurement data in the current disaster prevention system. This paper presents a robust early-warning system in which the statistical analysis used to predict sedimentation is conducted within the context of the underlying physical mechanisms. This three-phase early-warning system employs data collection, data generation, and AI (Artificial Intelligence) prediction. Data collection involves the use of HEC-HMS (Hydrologic Engineering Center – Hydrologic Modeling System) to transform measured precipitation data into flow discharge from various sub-catchments. Empirical formulas related to landslide volume and soil erosion are then used to establish suitable boundary conditions for data generation. Finally, a 2D model, SRH-2D (Sediment and River Hydraulic-Two Dimension model), is used to simulate data pertaining to temporal variations in sediment flux under various storm event scenarios. The simulated data are then used as input for the training and testing three artificial neural networks. The primary strength of this study is to improve the prediction ability in large-scale sedimentation issues in mountain rivers. These models returned good prediction results with 1–6 h lead times by interdisciplinary integration with the hydraulic and statistical fields.
CD155-TIGIT Axis as a Therapeutic Target for Cancer
Immunotherapy
Authors: Mu Yeteng , Guan Xingang
Published: March 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have shown unprecedented efficacy in
treating many advanced cancers. Although FDA-approved ICIs have shown promising efficacy
in treating many advanced cancers, their application is greatly limited by the low
response rate, immune-related adverse events (irAE), and drug resistance. Developing
novel ICIs holds great promise to improve the survival and prognosis of advanced cancer
patients. T-Cell immunoglobulin and ITIM domain (TIGIT) is an inhibitory receptor expressed
on T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and T regulatory cells. Increasing reports
have shown that the disrupting CD155-TIGIT axis could activate the immune system and
restore antitumor immune response. This review briefly summarized the role of TIGIT in
tumor immune escape and targeting CD155-TIGIT axis drugs in preclinical and clinical
trials for cancer immunotherapy.
Emotions Modelling in 3D Space
Authors: Verma Gyanendra K.
Published: March 2023

In this study, we have discussed emotion representation in two and three.dimensional space. The three-dimensional space is based on the three emotion
primitives, i.e., valence, arousal, and dominance. The multimodal cues used in this
study are EEG, Physiological signals, and video (under limitations). Due to the limited
emotional content in videos from the DEAP database, we have considered only three
classes of emotions, i.e., happy, sad, and terrible. The wavelet transforms, a classical
transform, were employed for multi-resolution analysis of signals to extract features.
We have evaluated the proposed emotion model with standard multimodal datasets,
DEAP. The experimental results show that SVM and MLP can predict emotions in
single and multimodal cues.
Exploring Blockchain Technology and Digital Certificates in the Education Sector
Authors: Ayarnah Amin , Mensah Kobby , Odoom Raphael
Published: March 2023

As the fourth industrial revolution is in play across the globe, emerging
technologies such as blockchain are increasingly affecting how students’ digital
academic documents and certificates are issued and distributed. Higher Education
Institutions (HEIs), students, employers, and other stakeholders in the educational
sector face challenges regarding the falsification of academic records and digital
certificates. However, relatively few adoptions of blockchain in education have been
carried out by HEIs and businesses. Blockchain promises credibility, immutability,
security, and consensus in light of issuing digital certificates and keeping academic
records. Although blockchain comes with implementation challenges such as legal
framework, scalability, and limited expertise, key stakeholders, including governments,
academia, and businesses, must collaborate to explore and ensure the usage of
blockchain-oriented educational solutions in the issuance of digital certifications
around the world.
Emerging Use of Technologies in Education
Authors: Charles Asare , Arko-Cole Nana , Yomboi Jonas , Tijani Ahmed
Published: March 2023

The use of technology in the classroom makes learning more pleasant and
simpler. The utilization of technology in the classroom is becoming more prevalent in
these modern times, especially in this COVID-19 era. In this chapter, we discuss the
emerging trends in education including the incorporation of new technologies. Among
the technologies covered in no particular order of importance are virtual reality,
augmented reality, mobile learning devices, and the internet of things. We evaluate the
potential impact of emerging technologies on university teaching and learning. The
technology education tools, including headsets, handsets, computers/laptops, electronic
readers and online books, were identified in the literature.
A Sneak Peek into the Future of Artificial Intelligence in Education: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Sajid Mohammad Sheikh , Saheal Huzina
Published: March 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) is undoubtedly the driving technological force of
the 21st century and is expected to virtually transform every sector, if not human
endeavours at large. It would be premature to assume that AI will have no impact on
education, as it can pave the way for new methods of learning and teaching by
reorganising classrooms or making them obsolete. The application of AI in education
may bring about insights into how learning happens and can alter the way learning is
assessed. AI has begun to exhibit its effect, acting as an assisting tool for both students
and teachers. Studies demonstrate a positive impact of AI on education in the near
future. It is currently changing the education sector, but it has yet to demonstrate its
true potential. AI will affect education in three major ways. On the learning front, the
strength of AI is its personalization, universal access, and generation of smart content,
which will aid students in understanding concepts efficiently. Secondly, AI can assist
tutors in reducing their workload by automating activities such as grading and
assessment. In this way, teachers will be able to shift their entire focus to student
learning. Moreover, with the AI system, administrative activities such as registration,
course allocation, and staff recruitment are expected to decline. By virtue of this, AI
can reduce the educators’ burden of performing manual operations. To reap the benefits
of AI transformations in education, teachers and students should be prepared to utilize
AI programmes effectively through training. Against this backdrop, the chapter will
discuss AI in education, its history, opportunities, and challenges.
Boletín de indicadores de ciencia, tecnología e innovación del sector agropecuario
Authors: Uribe Galvis Claudia Patricia , Londoño Angélica María , Contreras Carlos Alberto
Published: March 2023

Esta cartilla hace parte de los avances en materia de análisis y gestión del conocimiento sobre el Sistema Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología Agroindustrial - SNCTA desde el Observatorio del SNCTA, con el ánimo de proveer indicadores para apoyar la formulación de política pública, la toma de decisiones y la orientación de la Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación - I+D+i sectorial, que se soportan en la información dispuesta en la Plataforma Siembra.
Caña de azúcar CC93-7510 Vende finca
Authors:   Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria - AGROSAVIA
Published: March 2023

Material seleccionado entre 80 variedades que conformaron la colección regional número 6 (CR-6), la cual presentó dos variedades testigos regionales, RD 75-11 y CC 84-75. Esta variedad cuenta con características agronómicas e industriales que aseguran que esta nueva variedad permitirá al sector productivo una mayor productividad por unidad de área en producción de caña y panela.
A Web-Based Gender-Sensitive Educational Simulation on Vocational Rehabilitation for Service Providers Working With Youth With Disabilities: Pilot Evaluation
Authors: Lindsay Sally , Thomson Nicole , Moll Sandra , Colantonio Angela , Stinson Jennifer
Published: March 2023

Background

Although there is a need for gender-specific health care, especially within the context of vocational rehabilitation for youth with disabilities, clinicians, trainees, and community service providers commonly report lacking training in gender-sensitive approaches. Therefore, an educational tool designed for clinicians working with youth, that addresses how to approach such issues, could help clinicians to augment the care they provide.

Objective

The objective of our study was to conduct a pilot evaluation of an educational simulation for health care and service providers focusing on gender-sensitive approaches within the context of supporting youth with disabilities in vocational rehabilitation.

Methods

We conducted a survey from May to September 2021 to assess the relevance of the simulation content, preliminary perceived impact on gender-sensitive knowledge and confidence, and open-ended feedback of a web-based gender-sensitive educational simulation. A total of 12 health care providers from a variety of professions who had experience working with youth in the context of vocational rehabilitation participated in the survey (11 women and 1 man).

Results

Most participants reported that the content of the simulation was relevant and comprehensive. The majority of participants reported that the simulation helped to increase their perceived knowledge or understanding of the topic, changed their perceived understanding of their intervention or approach, and informed their perceived confidence. Our qualitative findings from the open-ended questions highlighted three main themes: (1) relevance of the simulation content, (2) perceived impact for clinical practice (ie, gender-sensitive language and communication and building rapport with patients), and (3) perceived impact on organizational processes (ie, practices, policy, and privacy).

Conclusions

Our educational simulation shows preliminary potential as an educational tool for service providers working with youth who have a disability within the context of vocational rehabilitation. Further research is needed to assess the impact of the tool with larger samples.
Human-Centered Design to Address Biases in Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Chen You , Clayton Ellen Wright , Novak Laurie Lovett , Anders Shilo , Malin Bradley
Published: March 2023

The potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to reduce health care disparities and inequities is recognized, but it can also exacerbate these issues if not implemented in an equitable manner. This perspective identifies potential biases in each stage of the AI life cycle, including data collection, annotation, machine learning model development, evaluation, deployment, operationalization, monitoring, and feedback integration. To mitigate these biases, we suggest involving a diverse group of stakeholders, using human-centered AI principles. Human-centered AI can help ensure that AI systems are designed and used in a way that benefits patients and society, which can reduce health disparities and inequities. By recognizing and addressing biases at each stage of the AI life cycle, AI can achieve its potential in health care.
Timely Pulmonary Tuberculosis Diagnosis Based on the Epidemiological Disease Spectrum: Population-Based Prospective Cohort Study in the Republic of Korea (Preprint)
Authors: Ko Yousang , Park Jae Seuk , Min Jinsoo , Kim Hyung Woo , Koo Hyeon-Kyoung , Oh Jee Youn , Jeong Yun-Jeong , Lee Eunhye , Yang Bumhee , Kim Ju Sang , Lee Sung-Soon , Kwon Yunhyung , Yang Jiyeon , Han Ji yeon , Jang You Jin , Kim Jinseob
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

Timely pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) diagnosis is a global health priority for interrupting transmission and optimizing treatment outcomes. The traditional dichotomous time-divided approach for addressing time delays in diagnosis has limited clinical application because the time delay significantly varies depending on each community in question.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to reevaluate the diagnosis time delay based on the PTB disease spectrum using a novel scoring system that was applied at the national level in the Republic of Korea.

METHODS

The Pulmonary Tuberculosis Spectrum Score (PTBSS) was developed based on previously published proposals related to the disease spectrum, and its validity was assessed by examining both all-cause and PTB-related mortality. In our analysis, we integrated the PTBSS into the Korea Tuberculosis Cohort Registry. We evaluated various time delays, including patient, health care, and overall delays, and their system-associated variables in line with each PTBSS. Furthermore, we reclassified the scores into distinct categories of mild (PTBSS=0-1), moderate (PBTBSS=2-3), and severe (PBTBSS=4-6) using a multivariate regression approach.

RESULTS

Among the 14,031 Korean patients with active PTB whose data were analyzed from 2018 to 2020, 37% (n=5191), 38% (n=5328), and 25% (n=3512) were classified as having a mild, moderate, and severe disease status, respectively, according to the PTBSS. This classification can therefore reflect the disease spectrum of PTB by considering the correlation of the score with mortality. The time delay patterns differed according to the PTBSS. In health care delays according to the PTBSS, greater PTB disease progression was associated with a shorter diagnosis period, since the condition is microbiologically easy to diagnose. However, with respect to patient delays, the change in elapsed time showed a U-shaped pattern as PTB progressed. This means that a remarkable patient delay in the real-world setting might occur at both apical ends of the spectrum (ie, in both mild and severe cases of PTB). Independent risk factors for a severe PTB pattern were age (adjusted odds ratio 1.014) and male sex (adjusted odds ratio 1.422), whereas no significant risk factor was found for mild PTB.

CONCLUSIONS

Timely PTB diagnosis should be accomplished. This can be improved with use of the PTBSS, a simple and intuitive scoring system, which can be more helpful in clinical and public health applications compared to the traditional dichotomous time-only approach.
Beyond Regionalism: The Politics of the Transboundary Haze Pollution in Southeast Asia
Authors: Umar Ahmad Rizky M
Published: March 2023

This article reviews two influential books by two Southeast Asian scholars that discuss the politics of transboundary haze pollution in Southeast Asia. In two excellent works addressing the transboundary haze pollution problem in the region, Paruedee Nguitragool and Helena Varkkey put forward two approaches to understand the failure to address transboundary haze pollution in the region with their own merits and limitations. On the one hand, Paruedee Nguitragool argues that the persistence of the transboundary haze pollution is linked to the regional dynamics in ASEAN and the ratification of the ASEAN Agreement on the Transboundary Haze Pollution (AATHP). On the other hand, Helena Varkkey points out a larger political-economic context that shapes the problem regionally, which relates to the palm oil plantation problem. I argue that, while both works have provided essential insights into the transboundary haze pollution in Southeast Asia, there are still spaces to discuss larger contexts underpinning the problem. I identify three issues that could be discussed in future research on the transboundary haze pollution, namely (1) the normative issue of protection and human rights to a safe, clean, and sustainable environment, (2) the local agency and dynamics in the forest fires and national haze problem, and (3) the nexus between transboundary haze pollution and regional climate change adaptations.
Placeres tecnosexuales. Claves hacia la comprensión de la sexualidad humano-máquina
Authors: Radrigán Valeria
Published: March 2023

El siguiente texto presenta una reflexión teórica en torno a la sexualidad humano-máquina. Los objetivos apuntan a actualizar las relaciones que existen entre nuestra especie y los objetos en la contemporaneidad y cómo ellas han modificado nuestra experiencia del placer. El análisis se sitúa en el marco de un transhumanismo pronunciado y una mercantilización planetaria del goce, que han devenido en una producción de tecnologías sexuales de alta eficacia y particularidad. A través de una metodología cualitativa de enfoque transdisciplinar, se propone generar un diálogo entre diversas áreas del conocimiento, prácticas sexuales “no convencionales” y la cultura medial para atender a las especificidades de esta “nueva” dimensión de la tecnosexualidad, en la que objetualizamos a las personas y personalizamos a los aparatos.
El arte-minería en Amona, Borinquen (Isla de Mona, Puerto Rico)
Authors: Samson Alice V M , Cooper Jago E.
Published: March 2023

El conjunto de arte rupestre de Isla de Mona (nombre indígena Amona), en su mayor parte relacionado con la dilatada ocupación indígena, es uno de los más diversos y abundantes de las Antillas. Desde el año 2013, nuestro proyecto se focaliza en la historia indígena de la isla, reelaborando los trabajos anteriores realizados por el Dr. Ovidio Dávila Dávila durante los años 80 y 90 y el Dr. Irving Rouse en los años 30 del siglo xx. En este artículo consideramos algunos aspectos de las prácticas subterráneas que quedaron marginadas porque difieren de lo que normalmente consideramos como arte rupestre. En Mona la morfología de las cuevas y las características de las superficies subterráneas fomentan actividades ocultas que incluyen las interacciones con sustancias minerales y distintas formas de dejar imágenes y marcas, y de transitar el espacio. En particular analizamos la práctica común de trazar huellas digitales en los carbonatos suaves y pastosos de las paredes usando las manos, una técnica que observamos en las áreas oscuras de 30 de las aproximadamente 70 cuevas que hemos visitados de un total de 230 cuevas conocidas en la isla. Estos grabados hechos con los dedos, a la misma vez que dejaron huellas negativas y blanquitas, el arte rupestre, también removieron sustancias en actividades acordes a la minería, y a lo que nos referimos como el arte-minería. El arte es minería y la minería es arte. En vez de enfocarnos en las representaciones, nos centramos en la mayoría de las marcas que no son imágenes. Este trabajo es un aporte a los estudios de diferentes partes del mundo donde la relaciones entre el arte rupestre, las cuevas, el uso de minerales subterráneas, y los estados ampliados de conciencia forman ensamblajes dinámicos, conectando Mona con otros espacios subterráneos antillanos, además de con las áreas continentales del centro y norte de América.
Micro-grid with Vehicle-to-Grid Technology and DC Quick Charging Architecture
Authors: Jyothi Ms. P. , Dhanunjaya B. , Rao Ch. Venkateswara , Praveen V. , Sunil S. , Thrisha P.
Published: March 2023

Abstract: Batteries from electric vehicles (EVs) can be used as potential energy storage systems in micro-grids. By storing energy when there is an excess (grid-to-vehicle) and supplying energy back to the grid (vehicle-to-grid), they can aid in micro-grid energy management. It is necessary to establish appropriate infrastructure and control mechanisms in order to implement this idea. This study presents an architecture for level-3 EV quick charging in a Vehicle to Grid-Grid to Vehicle system on a microgrid. A DC rapid charging station is modelled as part of a test micro-grid system for connecting EVs. Vehicle to Grid-Grid to Vehicle power transfer is demonstrated through simulation research. According to test results, EV batteries actively regulate power in the micro-grid using Grid to Vehicle and Vehicle to Grid operating modes. The controller provides good dynamic performance in terms of dc bus voltage stability, and the charging station design ensures minimal harmonic distortion of gridinjected current.
Transient Analysis on Excavator Bucket with Gray Cast Iron and Vanadium
Authors: Kumar R. Jagadeesh , Rao P. Kameswara , Rao M. Gangadhar , RamaKrishna R.
Published: March 2023

Abstract: The excavator machines are power machines used in the Agricultural, Mining and Construction industry. The main purpose of this excavator is for digging, ground leveling and material transport operations etc. The excavator bucket part is subjected to various load forces. So in this project, the work is carried on the bucket by interchanging the composite materials like gray cast iron and vanadium. Since the bucket experienced so many loads like impact during digging transient analysis is carried out, the standard specimen prepared through stir casting technique and conducted tests on the specimen like tensile, compression, hardness, and impact test to validate the data. The main objective of this project is to design an excavator bucket using CATIA V5 software of 3-D modeling software. Then simulation did through ANSYS 19.2 software by transient analysis technique to know the deformation and stresses etc. And the results of deformation and stress are compared between Gray Cast Iron without Vanadium and Grey Cast Iron with Vanadium for comparing justified result.