bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flydeling: Streamlined Performance Models for Hardware Acceleration of CNNs through System Identification
Authors: Carballo-Hernández Walther , Pelcat Maxime , Bhattacharyya Shuvra S. , Galán Ricardo Carmona , Berry François
Published: May 2023

The introduction of deep learning algorithms, such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) in many near-sensor embedded systems, opens new challenges in terms of energy efficiency and hardware performance. An emerging solution to address these challenges is to use tailored heterogeneous hardware accelerators combining processing elements of different architectural natures such as Central Processing Unit (CPU), Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), or Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). To progress towards heterogeneity, a great asset would be an automated design space exploration tool that chooses, for each accelerated partition of a CNN, the most appropriate architecture considering available resources. To feed such a design space exploration process, models are required that provide very fast yet precise evaluations of alternative architectures or alternative forms of CNNs. Quick configuration estimation could be achieved with few parameters from representative input sequences. This article studies a solution called
flydeling
(as a contraction of
fly
weight mo
deling
) for obtaining these models by inspiring from the black-box System Identification (SI) domain. We refer to models derived using the proposed approach as
fly
weight mo
dels
(
flydels
).

A methodology is proposed to generate these
flydels
, using CNN properties as predictor features together with SI techniques with a stochastic excitation input at a feature map dimensions level. For an embedded CPU-FPGA-GPU heterogeneous platform, it is demonstrated that it is possible to learn these Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
flydels
at an early design stage and from high-level application features. For latency, energy, and resource utilization,
flydels
obtain estimation errors varying between 5% and 10% with less model parameters compared to state-of-the-art solutions and are built automatically from platform measurements.
Modeling Long- and Short-Term User Preferences via Self-Supervised Learning for Next POI Recommendation
Authors: Jiang Shaowei , He Wei , Cui Lizhen , Xu Yonghui , Liu Lei
Published: May 2023

With the accumulation of check-in data from location-based services, next Point-of-Interest (POI) recommendations are gaining increasing attention. It is well known that the spatio-temporal contextual information of user check-in behavior plays a crucial role in handling vital and inherent challenges in next POI recommendation, including capture of user dynamic preferences and the sparsity problem of check-in data. However, many studies either ignore or simply stack the context features with the embedding of POIs while relying only on POI recommendation loss to optimize the entire model, therefore failing to take full advantage of the potential information in contexts. Additionally, users’ interests are usually unstable and evolve over time, and accordingly recent studies have proposed various approaches to predict users’ next POIs by incorporating contextual information and modeling both their long- and short-term preferences, respectively. Yet many studies overemphasize the final POI recommendation performance, and the association between POI sequences and contextual information is not well embodied in data representations. In this article, we focus on the preceding problems and propose a unified attention framework for next POI recommendation by modeling users’ Long- and Short-term Preferences via Self-supervised Learning (LSPSL). Specifically, based on the self-attention network and two self-supervised optimization objectives, LSPSL first deeply exploits the intrinsic correlations between POI sequences and contextual information through pre-training, which strengthens data representations. Then, supported by pre-trained contextualized embeddings, LSPSL models and fuses users’ complex long- and short-term preferences in a unified way. Extensive experiments on real-world datasets demonstrate the superiority of our model compared with other state-of-the-art approaches.
Effect of Classical and Quantum Superposition of Atomic States on Quantum Correlations
Authors: Gashu Chimdessa , Mosisa Ebisa , Idosa Chali
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we report the effect of classical and quantum superposition of atomic states on quantum correlations. Coupled photon pairs generated in a ladder quantum beat laser using coherent-induced classical field and atomic state coherent superposition are considered. Once the quantum coherence get sufficient time, it can generate quantum correlations that include quantum discord, quantum entanglement, and quantum steering, which quickly increase with time until they get their maximum strength. Their strength can be improved further by increasing the number of superposed atoms per unit time, selecting an appropriate amplitude of the classical fields, and managing the amount of temperatures and phase fluctuations. In particular, two-way quantum steering, which is a guarantee for the existence of quantum discord and quantum entanglement, can be achieved by increasing the rate of atomic injection from 2 kHz to 25 kHz even if the mean temperature of the heat bath is considered. The maximum achievable strength of quantum correlations is enhanced by increasing the rate of atomic injection and choosing an appropriate parameters of the coherent-induced classical field in the open quantum system which is treated by using the density operator approach.
The Most Effective Functioning of Competitive Supply Chain Pricing Based on Social Responsibility Dimensions: A Case Study of Oil Products of Knowledge-Based Companies
Authors: Dhahir Mohammed Hayder , Hayati Bahadorani Zahra , Fallah Neda , Seyyedi Erfan , Mahmood Salman Hayder , Morabbi Heravi Hakimeh
Published: May 2023

In today’s competitive environment, taking the advantage of supply chain which is both effective and efficient is a competitive advantage. An adequate supply chain has a multifaceted structure that focuses on integrating all factors, including pricing. The final product is delivered to customers based on maintaining market values and increasing strategic interactions. Present study aims to present the most effective functioning of competitive supply chain pricing in accordance with aspects of social responsibility. In doing so, we conducted a case study on oil-related products of Iranian knowledge-based companies. A combined analysis with 15 university-level industrial management experts was employed in this study to establish the components (competitive supply chain pricing function) and research propositions (dimensions of social responsibility). Twenty managers of knowledge-based enterprises in the oil field evaluated the components and propositions identified in the form of matrix questions using interpretative rating (IRP). The results showed that the proposition of the ethical dimension is the most effective measure of the social responsibility of knowledge-based companies in the oil field, creating competitive supply chain pricing functions based on value. This result shows that, under the ethical dimension of social responsibility, processes of competitive supply chain pricing are formed in accordance with the customer values and, according to the strategic relationship between the company and the economy with regional and global partners, maintaining values are a critical factor in developing our interactions between pricing factors. Given the results, in the first step for success, knowledge-based companies are recommended to consider the priorities of professional ethics in addition to knowledge in order to be able to gain the trust of customers by understanding their functional nature in the country’s developing economy. In this situation, the pricing process based on the creation of comprehensive values for customers can help to increase the company’s competitive position and make these companies to be at the first level of strategic interactions with companies that use petroleum products.
Collaborate or Compete? Time-Varying Incentives versus Tolling in Parallel Bottleneck
Authors: Xiao Lin , Wu Jiyan , Hu Xiangwang , Sun Jian , Tian Ye
Published: May 2023

Incentive-based traffic demand management (IBTDM) schemes redistribute traffic demand across space and time. The relationship between IBTDM and traditional tolling programs impacts financial sustainability and decision making of both programs. This study aims to examine if an IBTDM and a tolling program can coexist and should collaborate or compete to establish a financially sustainable mobility ecosystem. We investigate a duopoly case with an IBTDM and a tolling program in a parallel bottleneck model with fixed demand. It is assumed that the IBTDM program has a user acquisition cost and is constrained by a total budget. Then, the collaboration and competition cases between two programs are investigated, respectively. We found that both programs can attract substantial amounts of commuters and thus can coexist with each other, while the IBTDM program could attract more commuters. Overall, the tolling agency will not cooperate with the IBTDM company if its goal is to raise revenue. Additionally, the IBTDM company held an advantage as it can determine an optimal incentive scheme with incomplete information when competing. This study fills the knowledge gap on the coexistence of incentive and tolling programs, which helps to optimize the profiles of incentive and tolling, as well as to make strategic decisions on competition and cooperation.
Discrimination and Evaluation of Wild Paris Using UHPLC-QTOF-MS and FT-IR Spectroscopy in Combination with Multivariable Analysis
Authors: Yang Yuangui , Li Fan , Xu Hongbo , Tang Zhishu , Wang Yuanzhong
Published: May 2023

Genus Paris has numerous bioactive constituents such as steroid saponins, flavonoids, and polysaccharose which are responsible for antitumor, hemostatic, and anthelmintic, etc. In this study, ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography coupled to time-of-flight mass spectrometer (UHPLC-QTOF-MS) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy in combination with multivariable analysis were employed to discriminate the different species of Paris including P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis (PPY), P. polyphylla var. alba, P. mairei (PM), P. vietnamensis, and P. polyphylla var. stenophylla. Partial least square discriminate analysis based on UHPLC, FT-IR, and midlevel data fusion was used to distinguish 43 batches of Paris. Chemical constituents of different species Paris were determined by UHPLC-QTOF-MS. The result indicated that midlevel data fusion had a good performance in the classification compared to a single analytical technology. A total of 47 compounds were identified in different species Paris. The similar results indicated that PM could be treated as a proposal substitute of PPY.
Immersive Multimedia Art Design Based on Deep Learning Intelligent VR Technology
Authors: Zhang Ying
Published: May 2023

The rapid development of computer science has led to the rapid development of new media technology. Among them, VR technology is sought after by the vast market for its multidimensional experience and immersive model. VR technology plays an important role in today’s art exhibition and presentation. However, in the process of transforming 2D images into 3D models, traditional VR technology has some problems, such as long loading time, low model decision-making efficiency, and chaotic operation process, which often lead to visual interference when viewers watch art. Based on this background and the interactive page algorithm based on traditional VR technology, this paper studies and improves the visual interference in immersive multimedia art design by using task technology perception matching model (TTF). The results show that the improved task technology perception matching model reduces the visual and auditory interference by 10% in the process of virtual reality art display and viewing, and the model layout is more reasonable, and the utilization rate is higher.
Data from Targeting the IL-1β pathway for cancer immunotherapy remodels the tumor microenvironment and enhances antitumor immune responses
Authors: Diwanji Rohan , O'Brien Neil A. , Choi Jiyoung E. , Nguyen Beverly , Laszewski Tyler , Grauel Angelo L. , Yan Zheng , Xu Xin , Wu Jincheng , Ruddy David A. , Piquet Michelle , Pelletier Marc R. , Savchenko Alexander , Charette LaSalette , Rodrik-Outmezguine Vanessa , Baum Jason , Millholland John M. , Wong Connie C. , Martin Anne-Marie , Dranoff Glenn , Pruteanu-Malinici Iulian , Cremasco Viviana , Sabatos-Peyron Catherine , Jayaraman Pushpa
Published: May 2023

Abstract
High levels of IL-1β can result in chronic inflammation, which in turn can promote tumor growth and metastasis. Inhibition of IL-1β could therefore be a promising therapeutic option in the treatment of cancer. Here, the effects of IL-1β blockade induced by the monoclonal antibodies canakinumab and gevokizumab were evaluated alone or in combination with docetaxel, anti-PD-1, anti-VEGFα and anti-TGFβ treatment in syngeneic and humanized mouse models of cancers of different origin. Canakinumab and gevokizumab did not show notable efficacy as single-agent therapies; however, IL-1β blockade enhanced the effectiveness of docetaxel and anti–PD-1. Accompanying these effects, blockade of IL-1β alone or in combination induced significant remodeling of the tumor microenvironment (TME), with decreased numbers of immune suppressive cells and increased tumor infiltration by dendritic cells and effector T cells. Further investigation revealed that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) were the cell type most affected by treatment with canakinumab or gevokizumab in terms of change in gene expression. IL-1β inhibition drove phenotypic changes in CAF populations, particularly those with the ability to influence immune cell recruitment. These results suggest that the observed remodeling of the TME following IL-1β blockade may stem from changes in CAF populations. Overall, the results presented here support the potential use of IL-1β inhibition in cancer treatment. Further exploration in ongoing clinical studies will help identify the best combination partners for different cancer types, cancer stages and lines of treatment.
Guerra na Ucrânia: comparação entre possíveis interpretações de correntes neorrealistas e neoliberais das Relações Internacionais
Authors: Silva Flávia Couto e
Published: May 2023

O presente trabalho se propõe a comparar como as teorias neoliberal e neorrealista das Relações Internacionais podem contribuir na análise e compreensão da Guerra na Ucrânia. Para isso, primeiramente far-se-á uma contextualização sobre cada uma dessas correntes de pensamento. Depois, aproximar-se-á a corrente neoliberal neoinstiticionalista a alguns aspectos da Guerra da Ucrânia. Para isso, relacionar-se-á algumas ideias presentes nos trabalhos do importante neoliberal Robert Keohane (1941-) com a guerra mencionada. Por fim, aprofundar-se-á em como o neorrealismo das Relações Internacionais, tal como especificamente as ideias de William Wohlforth, podem ajudar a compreender a invasão russa ao território ucraniano.
Do Feminismo Radical ao Feminismo Pró-sexo: como a pornografia é vista?
Authors: Silva Mirian Borges da
Published: May 2023

Para além das agendas governamentais conservadoras e de grupos religiosos, o fim da pornografia é visto como necessário também pelo feminismo radical, sob a chave de proteção da mulher, levando em conta que a pornografia reproduz opressões estruturais, como o machismo, o sexismo e a misoginia. Em uma outra postura teórica e prática, o feminismo pró-sexo se consolida como uma reação à censura proposta à pornografia e propõe o desenvolvimento de uma outra pornografia, que considere desejos e corpos marginalizados na posição de sujeitos. A partir das teorizações do feminismo radical e do feminismo pró-sexo, o presente artigo se propõe a fazer um levantamento bibliográfico das principais problematizações desses dois feminismos acerca da pornografia, a fim de assimilar e expor suas principais implicações teóricas e práticas.
Sex Differences in Ambulatory Blood Pressure Levels and Subtypes in a Large Italian Community Cohort
Authors: Omboni Stefano , Khan Nadia A. , Kunadian Vijay , Olszanecka Agnieszka , Schutte Aletta E. , Mihailidou Anastasia S.
Published: May 2023

Background:

Sex differences in blood pressure control are recognized. We systematically investigated sex differences in specific components of ambulatory blood pressure (ABP), including variability, day-night changes, morning surge, and hypertension types.

Methods:

We analyzed ABPs of 52 911 participants (45.6% male, 54.4% female, 37.0% treated for hypertension) visiting 860 Italian community pharmacies. Sex differences in ABP levels and patterns were evaluated in the whole group and 4 risk groups (antihypertensive-treated patients, patients with diabetes, dyslipidemia, or cardiovascular disease).

Results:

Average 24-hour, day-time, and night-time blood pressure values were consistently higher in males than females (
P
<0.001). Variability in ABP was higher in females, except during the night. Nondippers and an abnormal morning surge were more common among males (odds ratio and 95% CI, 1.282 [1.230–1.335] and 1.244 [1.159–1.335];
P
<0.001). The prevalence of 24-hour and masked hypertension was higher in males (odds ratio and 95% CI, 2.093 [2.019–2.170] and 1.347 [1.283–1.415];
P
<0.001) and that of white-coat hypertension in females (0.719 [0.684–0.755];
P
<0.001). Ambulatory heart rate mean values were higher (
P
<0.001) in females. Day-time HR variability was higher and night-time heart rate variability lower in females (
P
<0.001). Sex differences in ABP levels and patterns detected in the whole population were replicated in all risk groups, except for the prevalence of abnormal morning surge (between sexes difference in antihypertensive-treated participants only).

Conclusions:

Females show better ABP control than males, but with an increased blood pressure variability and a greater prevalence of white-coat hypertension. These findings support tailored management of hypertension.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03781401
Different Mechanisms for Visual Attention at the Hand-movement Goal and Endogenous Visual Attention
Authors: Wu Wei , Li Zhan , Miura Takumi , Hatori Yasuhiro , Tseng Chia-huei , Kuriki Ichiro , Sato Yoshiyuki , Shioiri Satoshi
Published: May 2023

Visual perception is closely related to body movements and action, and it is known that processing visual stimuli is facilitated at the hand or at the hand-movement goal. Such facilitation suggests that there may be an attentional process associated with the hands or hand movements. To investigate the underlying mechanisms of visual attention at a hand-movement goal, we conducted two experiments to examine whether attention at the hand-movement goal is a process independent from endogenous attention. Endogenous attention is attention that is intentionally focused on a location, feature, or object. We controlled the hand-movement goal and endogenous attention separately to investigate the spatial profiles of the two types of attention. A visual target was presented either at the goal of hand movement (same condition) or at its opposite side (opposite condition) while steady-state visual-evoked potential (SSVEP) was used to estimate the spatial distributions of the facilitation effect from the 2 types of attention around the hand-movement goal and around the visual target through EEG. We estimated the spatial profile of attentional modulation for the hand-movement goal by taking the difference in SSVEP amplitude between conditions with and without hand movement, thereby obtaining the effect of visual endogenous attention alone. The results showed a peak at the hand-movement goal, independent of the location of the visual target where participants intentionally focused their attention (endogenous attention). We also found differences in the spatial extent of attentional modulation. Spatial tuning was narrow around the hand-movement goal (i.e., attentional facilitation only at the goal location) but was broadly tuned around the focus of endogenous attention (i.e., attentional facilitation spreading over adjacent stimulus locations), which was obtained from the condition without hand movement. These results suggest the existence of two separate mechanisms, one underlying the attention at the hand-movement goal and another underlying endogenous attention.
Sentential Contextual Facilitation of Auditory Word Processing Builds Up during Sentence Tracking
Authors: Wu Min , Bosker Hans Rutger , Riecke Lars
Published: May 2023

While listening to meaningful speech, auditory input is processed more rapidly near the end (vs. beginning) of sentences. Although several studies have shown such word-to-word changes in auditory input processing, it is still unclear from which processing level these word-to-word dynamics originate. We investigated whether predictions derived from sentential context can result in auditory word-processing dynamics during sentence tracking. We presented healthy human participants with auditory stimuli consisting of word sequences, arranged into either predictable (coherent sentences) or less predictable (unstructured, random word sequences) 42-Hz amplitude-modulated speech, and a continuous 25-Hz amplitude-modulated distractor tone. We recorded RTs and frequency-tagged neuroelectric responses (auditory steady-state responses) to individual words at multiple temporal positions within the sentences, and quantified sentential context effects at each position while controlling for individual word characteristics (i.e., phonetics, frequency, and familiarity). We found that sentential context increasingly facilitates auditory word processing as evidenced by accelerated RTs and increased auditory steady-state responses to later-occurring words within sentences. These purely top–down contextually driven auditory word-processing dynamics occurred only when listeners focused their attention on the speech and did not transfer to the auditory processing of the concurrent distractor tone. These findings indicate that auditory word-processing dynamics during sentence tracking can originate from sentential predictions. The predictions depend on the listeners' attention to the speech, and affect only the processing of the parsed speech, not that of concurrently presented auditory streams.
Identifying the Neural Bases of Math Competence Based on Structural and Functional Properties of the Human Brain
Authors: Ren Xueying , Libertus Melissa E.
Published: May 2023

Human populations show large individual differences in math performance and math learning abilities. Early math skill acquisition is critical for providing the foundation for higher quantitative skill acquisition and succeeding in modern society. However, the neural bases underlying individual differences in math competence remain unclear. Modern neuroimaging techniques allow us to not only identify distinct local cortical regions but also investigate large-scale neural networks underlying math competence both structurally and functionally. To gain insights into the neural bases of math competence, this review provides an overview of the structural and functional neural markers for math competence in both typical and atypical populations of children and adults. Although including discussion of arithmetic skills in children, this review primarily focuses on the neural markers associated with complex math skills. Basic number comprehension and number comparison skills are outside the scope of this review. By synthesizing current research findings, we conclude that neural markers related to math competence are not confined to one particular region; rather, they are characterized by a distributed and interconnected network of regions across the brain, primarily focused on frontal and parietal cortices. Given that human brain is a complex network organized to minimize the cost of information processing, an efficient brain is capable of integrating information from different regions and coordinating the activity of various brain regions in a manner that maximizes the overall efficiency of the network to achieve the goal. We end by proposing that frontoparietal network efficiency is critical for math competence, which enables the recruitment of task-relevant neural resources and the engagement of distributed neural circuits in a goal-oriented manner. Thus, it will be important for future studies to not only examine brain activation patterns of discrete regions but also examine distributed network patterns across the brain, both structurally and functionally.
LIFE SENSE ORIENTATION AND SELF-REGULATION AS PSYCHOLOGICAL CORRELATES OF CONSTRUCTIVE COPING IN ADOLESCENCE
Authors: Sinelnikova Elena S. , Udovichenko Polina А.
Published: May 2023

Background. Th e crisis state of the modern world and due to it — the increased level of stress threatening to the psychological and physical health of people make the problem of identifying the psychological factors of coping with stress especially urgent. regulation are considered as personality factors associated with constructive coping with stress. Objective. Th e study had its purpose to investigate the role of self-regulation and life sense orientations in coping with stress in adolescence. Methods. Th e study implemented the following methods: Crumbaugh and Maholic’s “Purpose-in-Life Test” (PIL) adapted by D. Leontyev, Morosanova’s Self-Regulation Profi le Questionnaire (SRPQM), WSQ adap ted by T.L. Kryukova, E.V. Kuft yak, COPE Str ess Coping Inventory adapted by E.I. Rasskazova, T.O. Gordeeva, E.N. Osin. Mathematical and statistical data processing was carried out in Excel program by means of correlation analysis. Sample. Th e study involved university students in St. Petersburg aged 18 to 23 years (N = 60, 50% of girls). Results. Correlation analysis of the data obtained demonstrated that life meaningfulness is positively correlated with active c oping (r = 0.440, p < 0.01), problem solving (r = 0.333, p < 0.01), social distraction (r = 0.357, p < 0.01) and negatively correlated with behavioral avoidance of the problem (r = –0.442, p < 0.01) and emotion-oriented coping (r = –0.500, p < 0.01). Self-regulation level is positively correlated with problem solving(r = 0.606, p < 0.01), planning (r = 0.510, p < 0.01), active coping (r = 0.369, p < 0.01), inhibition of competing activity (r = 0.334, p < 0.01). Conclusion. Th e study revealed that in adolescence, constructive ways of coping with stress correspond to high rates of meaningfulness of life and self-regulation. Young people who have a higher level of life meaningfulness and a higher general level of conscious self-regulation are less likely to give up their goals when faced with diffi cult life circumstances. On the contrary, their purposeful activity is aimed at fi nding an optimal solution to the problem. Th e data obtained empirically confi rm the important role of life meaningfulness and self-regulation in constructive coping with stress. Analysis of the relationship of these psychological factors with coping strategies gives reason to conclude that while self-regulation allows to mobilize one’s resources for a quick and eff ective solution to the problem, meaningfulness of life helps to cope with long and intractable situations that require the preservation of physical and mental resources for a long time.
Ethnic Reconciliation from the Margins
Authors: Ndereba Kevin Muriithi
Published: May 2023

The Kenyan post-election violence of 2007 deepened the ethnic differences that have been growing for the past decades after independence. While the August 2022 elections revealed political maturity, the October 2017 re-elections indicated that the hostility was not a settled issue. Kenyan churches in the post-democratic space have courted with political alliances along ethnic blocs. Additionally, some of the protestant churches in Kenya such as Presbyterian, Methodist and Friends, are largely monoethnic despite their long history. To what extent can these churches follow the biblical vision of a multi-cultural and multi-ethnic church? This topic has generated theological interest yet few have assessed the role of the youth in ethnic reconciliation. This article will 1) survey the issue of ethnicity and the church; 2) offer a biblical-theological reflection on ethnicity, and 3) suggest how an inclusive-congregational youth ministry model can revitalize ethnic reconciliation in the church and by extension, society.
Nomads and Warlords, Chadian Forces in African Peace Operations
Authors: Tchie Andrew E. Yaw
Published: May 2023

Despite criticism of the United Nations (UN) as peacekeepers “hiding behind sandbags,” by the former president of Chad, the Chadian military has become a critical enabler of African-led and UN peace operations. This paper posits that the effectiveness of the Chadian forces stems from refined and modified nomad and warlord structures and attributes used during Chad’s various conflicts to build and improve its national army. This has allowed the Chadian regime to exercise and project power, thus, producing one of Africa’s most effective forces for current conflicts and challenges. Thus, Chad’s military leadership reflects a trend of states that use military prowess to project force, while maintaining international partnerships with permanent members of the unsc (the US and France), UN peacekeeping missions and African ad hoc security initiatives. Finally, the paper examines the implications of this trend for the evolving nature of African Peace and Security Architecture.
Women Diplomats during the Interwar Period: the Case of Palma Guillén
Authors: Toledo García Itzel
Published: May 2023

This article analyzes the diplomatic career of Palma Guillén, the first woman to represent Mexico in high-ranking diplomatic positions during the interwar period. Guillén was Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary in Bogota, Colombia (1935–36) and Copenhagen, Denmark (1936–37), and Technical Advisor to the Mexican Delegation at the League of Nations in Geneva, Switzerland (1938–41). The article aims to elucidate the activities she undertook and the issues she focused on, as well as to compare her experience dealing with governments, the press and diplomatic peers to that of other female diplomats and consuls from Europe and the Americas during the interwar period.
Arbitral Anti-Suit Measures: Implications of Mutual Trust
Authors: Mammadzada Aygun
Published: May 2023

Arbitration is a legal promise between the contracting parties, and they should hold their promises. If there is any breach of that promise or any attempt to breach, the violating party should bear the outcomes. Upon a breach of an arbitration agreement, remedies become more crucial than ever to refrain the other party from commencing parallel court proceedings. Together with a stay and damages, a party seeking an effective remedy may benefit from an anti-suit injunction issued by either the court or tribunal.

This paper examines the application perspectives of the mutual trust principle to arbitral proceedings while speculating upon anti-suit measures granted by an arbitral tribunal. The discussions particularly highlight the rebirth of the issue in the EU following the Gazprom case and the relevance/irrelevance of the latter to the West Tankers scenario. Considering the reasonings in the respective cases, the paper emphasizes uncertainty about the effectiveness of arbitral anti-suit injunctions and their enforcement. Upon identifying major normative gaps and shortcomings created by the essence of the existing legal rules, the paper reveals possible practical complexities and likely ineffectiveness of such measures. The findings suggest that uncertainties might be ultimately resolved by the revisions of the law which are on the horizon and reassessment of West Tankers by the cjeu or possible revision of the existing Brussels Recast Regulation taking scrutiny of the Gazprom judgment. At this juncture, the paper will briefly delve into the impact of Brexit on anti-suit injunctions in support of arbitration and its implications for arbitration rules and practice in the changing landscape.
A (Not Always) Difficult Balance between Legal Certainty and Legality: The Effects of cjeu and ECtHR Case Law on National Res Judicata
Authors: Grassi Michele
Published: May 2023

This note examines a recent judgment of the Corte di Cassazione, in which the Court rejected an opposition against the enforcement of a final judgment that was purportedly irreconcilable with later rulings of the Court of Justice of the European Union (“cjeu”) and the European Court of Human Rights (“ECtHR”) on very similar cases. The impact of judgments rendered by international tribunals on domestic procedural rules concerning res judicata often raises complex issues. This is mainly due to the difficult balance between the principle of legal certainty on one hand, and the principles of legality and effectiveness of European Union (“EU”) law and the human rights protection system, on the other. Nonetheless, in the case under review, the rules and principles developed through the years by the cjeu and the Italian Corte Costituzionale, that will be analysed in this note, provided clear guidance to the Corte di Cassazione.
Breaking the Ancestral Silence: Recognition of Citizenship by Descent Despite the Great Brazilian Naturalization
Authors: Panascì Maria Antonia
Published: May 2023

This case note recounts and critically analyzes a judgment with which the Italian Corte di Cassazione has pronounced itself on the acquisition of Italian citizenship jure sanguinis by descendants of Italian ancestors who had allegedly renounced their citizenship upon tacit acceptance of mass naturalization in Brazil. The case note argues that the judgment has effectively resorted to the preclusion of inferences from silence to protect the fundamental status of citizenship from loss. Nonetheless, it claims that the relationship between national rules on modes of acquisition of citizenship and EU citizenship should have been better framed.
The Role of Flag States of ngo Vessels under Italy’s New Migration Policy
Authors: Chianese Michela
Published: May 2023

On 4 and 6 November 2022, the Italian Ministry of Home Affairs, in agreement with the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Infrastructures and Transport, issued two inter-ministerial decrees effectively prohibiting two ngo humanitarian vessels from staying in Italian territorial waters for a longer period than “necessary”. As the former Minister of Home Affairs stated, such decrees were the “first act” of a policy aimed at calling on flag countries to respect their international law obligations. In the context of a press release, the Minister even stated that migrants saved at sea and in need of international and complementary protection could be informed of the possibility to apply for asylum on board of the rescuing vessels. The present comment offers an evaluation of the compatibility of such policy, finally given legal status in the Italian Law Decree n. 1/2023, under international law, bearing in mind both what it is legally required of shipmasters vis-à-vis rescued migrants and State obligations under international law.
Synthesis and Characterization of Pure and Magnesium Doped Germanium Dioxide (Mg–GeO2) Nano Crystals for Photocatalytic Applications
Authors: Abdullah M. M. , Albargi Hasan B. , Ahmad Mohammad Zaki , Ahmad Javed
Published: May 2023

In this study, triethyl-germanium acetate was used as the initial material for the wet chemical synthesis of pure and magnesium-doped germanium dioxide (Mg–GeO2). The physiochemical characterization of As-grown nanocrystals ascertained the successful doping of Mg into
the GeO2 lattices without changing their structure. The produced models were found to be 68 nm in size. Structural, optical, and photocatalytic properties were found effective with different concentrations of Mg doping. Methyl violet (C24H28N3Cl)
was used as a model dye for the study of photocatalytic decolorization and degradation. The findings indicate that Mg–GeO2 exhibits greater photocatalytic decolorization and degradation ability than purified GeO2. This indicates that the Mg doping increases the
photocatalytic decolorization and degradation efficacy of GeO2 nanocrystals.
High Efficiency of Tandem Perovskite Solar Cells: Optical-Electrical-Thermal Simulation
Authors: Yang Yinrun , Lan Ting , Zhu Yanbing , Song Qinghe , Zeng Chunhua , Shai Xuxia , Wei TingTing
Published: May 2023

The SCAPS-1D simulation tool was employed to conduct photoelectric simulation of perovskite solar cells in this paper. To begin with, a MAPbI3/MASnI3 layer was used as the perovskite absorption layer to investigate the performance of tandem perovskite solar cells.
The influence of defect density and the work function of the front electrode on the device performance were studied. Additionally, the impact of temperature variations on device performance was studied. The results indicate that the MAPbI3/MASnI3 tandem perovskite solar
cells achieve higher efficiency (30.05%) than the single-junction perovskite solar cells. Moreover, low defect density and temperature were found to be beneficial for higher performance. The heat distribution inside the device was studied using the finite element method. Furthermore, the influence
of different hole transport materials and electron transport materials on the performance of perovskite solar cells with the hybrid perovskite layer (MAPbI3/MASnI3) was investigated and find out the appropriate transport layer materials. This research provides a reference
for the perovskite solar cells.
Development of polylactic-co-glycolic acid-polyethylene glycol nanoparticles as drug carriers to promote wound healing
Authors: Wang Yongbo , Yao Bin , Wang Zhenbo , Xie Tianyu , Ye Jichao
Published: May 2023

Impaired wound healing is a common complication of orthopedic surgery and poses a difficult challenge in the clinic. Fibroblasts are thought to play a significant role in wound healing, and can be positively affected by low concentrations of rapamycin; however, rapamycin is cytotoxic
at higher concentrations. To address this issue, a RAPA/PLGA-PEG drug delivery system was constructed in this study to maintain low concentrations of rapamycin. The results showed that the nanoparticles were stable, had good sustained drug release properties and were able to reduce the toxicity
of rapamycin to fibroblasts. These findings suggest that RAPA/PLGA-PEG nanoparticles can reduce the cytotoxicity of rapamycin and may be a potential clinical treatment for impaired wound healing.
Analysis of checkpoint effect with fork head associated-and ring finger fusion enhanced green fluorescent protein on nasopharyngeal carcinoma 5–8F cells
Authors: Chen Wubing , Wang Yilong , Ying Yongjie
Published: May 2023

As an oncogene related to mitosis cycle, checkpoint with fork head associated-(FHA) and ring finger (CHFR) participates in cell cycle and nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Enhanced Green fluorescent protein (EGFP) is a new type of fluorescent probe. In this study, the effect of CHFR fusion
enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) on nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells was analyzed. 5–8F human NPC cells were divided into control group, empty vector group (NC) and CHFR group (transfected with CHFR-pEGFP-N1-5–8F cell line). 12 BALB/c-nu mice were divided into control group,
empty vector group and CHFR group. The following processes were assessed: cell proliferation, mitosis cycle, expression of CHFR, Aurora A, Cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDC2) and Cyclin B1, and tumor volume. Cell proliferation in the CHFR group was significantly lower at 24, 48 and 72 h. The
NC and CHFR groups had increased cells in the G0/G1 phase and reduced cells in the S phase 24 h after subculture, without difference between the NC and CHFR groups. The CHFR group had decreased levels of Aurora A, CDC2 and CyclinB1, while tumor volume in 3 groups increased with increased time,
and decreased at each time point for the CHFR group compared with other groups (p < 0.05). CHFR was highly expressed in the CHFR tumor group, which was significantly higher than other groups. The CHFR fusion EGFP protein can significantly inhibit Aurora A activity and expression
of Aurora A, CDC2 and CyclinB1 by up-regulating the CHFR. The NPC cells were retained in the G0/G1 phase, blocking progression of cell mitosis, and further inhibiting cell proliferation while reducing tumor volume, and inhibiting the tumorigenic ability of NPC cells.
Effects of dexmedetomidine combined with sufentanil on injury and expression of high mobility group box protein B1/toll-like receptors signaling pathway in rats with pancreatitis
Authors: He Qijuan , Deng Jiguang , Wang Wei
Published: May 2023

Pancreatitis is a common disease of digestive system, easy to deteriorate, acute onset, poor prognosis, high fatality rate. Analgesic and sedative drugs are often used to treat pancreatitis. Dexmedetomidine is an adrenergic receptor agonist, and Sufentanil is a common analgesic sedative.
However, the mechanism of their combined use in the treatment of pancreatitis injury has not been fully elucidated. Wistar rat pancreatitis Model was established and randomly divided into 4 groups: Dex group, Dex+Suf group, model group and Sufentanil group. Compare and analyze heart rate,
oxygen saturation, body temperature, and respiration. The onset time, duration, analgesic time and adverse reactions were recorded. Serum amylase, creatinine and alanine aminotransferase were detected. Serum IL-6 and IL-1β levels were detected, and apoptotic activity was detected
by Caspase 3 activity kit. The expression of HMGB1, TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA in pancreatic tissues. Dexmedetomide alone or combined with sufentanil can improve the general indicators, sedation and analgesia time is shorter, longer duration. Serum secretion of IL-6 and IL-1β decreased,
expression of HMGB1, TLR2 and TLR4 decreased, pancreatic serological serum amylase, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase activities decreased, Caspase 3 activity decreased. The curative effect of combination group was significantly higher than that of model group (p < 0.01). Dexmedetomidine
combined with sufentanil can affect the expression of HMGB1/TLRs, inhibit inflammation, improve sedation and analgesia, and inhibit apoptosis, so as to alleviate the injury of acute pancreatitis.
Ophiopogonin A alleviates acute lung inflammation via NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathway in a mouse model of Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Wu Jingwen , Zhou Xiaoqing , Xue Fang , Hui Xiaoyan , Zhang Peipei
Published: May 2023

Klebsiella pneumoniae (Kp) is a gram-negative bacterium present in the flora of the mouth, skin and intestines. Due to the emergence of antibiotic resistance, the outcome of Kp pneumonia is becoming worse. Exploring an effective treatment method is clinically important. Ophiopogon
japonicus is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine for treating inflammation and oxidative stress damage, as ophiopogonin A (OP-A) is its main active ingredient. We investigated the impact of OP-A on Kp pneumonia and further elucidated the underlying mechanism. After the establishment
of Kp mouse model, the animals were grouped and received intraperitoneal injection of OP-A, levofloxacin (Lvx) or PBS. After 12 hours, mice were dissected to detect the pathological changes of lung tissues, and the number of inflammatory proteins and inflammatory cells in the bronchoalveolar
lavage fluid (BALF). Finally, Western blot and RT-qPCR analyses were carried out to detect MARK, JNK, ERK and NF-κB expression in mouse lung tissues upon treatments. Administration of OP-A attenuated the pathological damage of lung tissues of Kp pneumonia mice, as both Lvx and
OP-A significantly controlled and inhibited the wet-to-dry ratio of the lung tissues. Increased protein content and inflammatory cells infiltration were visible in Kp pneumonia mice, while the advent of Lvx and OP-A dramatically diminished inflammatory cells infiltration in BALF of lung tissues
with fewer contents of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α. The protective effect of OP-A on Kp pneumonia correlated with the NF-κB/MAPK signaling. In conclusion, OP-A treatment may alleviate the pathological damage and reduce inflammation of Kp mice through inhibition
of the NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathway. OP-A has a significant anti-inflammatory effect on Kp mice, and hence it is a promising alternative for treating Kp pneumonia.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of anthocyanin synthesis-related R2R3-MYB gene family in purple passion fruit (Passiflora edulis)
Authors: Ni Ying , Cui Zeyang , Zhang Zhiting , Chen Huiying , Zhou Sheng
Published: May 2023

The myeloblastosis (MYB) transcription factors (TFs) participate in a variety of physiological and biochemical processes, especially in the anthocyanin biosynthesis in plants. However, the comprehensive functional study of MYB TFs, especially in regulating anthocyanin
accumulation in passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) remains limited. To gain a better understanding of the evolutionary history of this family, we conducted a genome-wide analysis of MYB TFs in passion fruit, including phylogenetic analysis, gene structure, conserved motifs, chromosomal
locations, and collinearity analysis. A total of 254 MYB genes were identified in the passion fruit genome, comprising 128 1R-MYBs, 119 R2R3-MYBs, 5 3R-MYBs and 2 4R-MYBs. Based on the classification of Arabidopsis thaliana MYB (AtMYB) genes,
the passion fruit R2R3-MYB (PeMYB) genes were further divided into 37 subgroups, which were dispersed in 9 chromosomes. The analyses of gene structure and protein conserved motif analyses further supports the clustering results of the phylogenetic tree. RT-qPCR validation revealed
that the relative expression of PeMYB67 and PeMYB86 increased during fruit development, while PeMYB95 exhibited no significant changes. The expression levels of other eight MYB genes involving PeMYB4, PeMYB13, PeMYB32, PeMYB40, PeMYB78, PeMYB115, PeMYB25
and PeMYB118 manifested declining regulation alongside fruit ripening. They were either positively or negatively correlated with the accumulation of anthocyanins during fruit growth. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the passion fruit MYB superfamily genes
and lays a foundation for future cloning and functional analysis of PeMYB genes related to anthocyanin accumulation in passion fruit.