bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein PRDM16 and its importance for adipose tissue (literature review)
Authors: Afanaskina L. N. , Derevtsova S. N. , Chekisheva T. N. , Medvedeva N. N.
Published: October 2023

Currently, in Russia and in the world, there is an increase in the proportion of overweight and obese people among the population, which contributes to an increase in the number of socially significant diseases. Obesity is associated with the predominance of the proportion of fat mass in the component composition of the body. Based on this, increased attention is paid to a comprehensive study of the functioning of all types of human adipose tissue, which is necessary for the further use of this knowledge in the fight against obesity. This article provides an overview of the literature data on the structure and properties of the PRDM16 gene, the features of its functioning in brown, white and beige adipose tissue. The influence of the PRDM16 gene on the activation of brown adipogenesis and the formation of beige adipocytes in white adipose tissue, which contribute to increased heat production of cells by means of non-contractile thermogenesis and improvement of metabolic parameters of the body, is considered. Data on the role of PRDM16 protein in the treatment of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus and other human diseases associated with it are analyzed. The results on the methods of effective activation of brown and beige adipocytes and the use of these methods in the treatment of obesity are presented.
A systematic review of the pharmacological effects of the active ingredients of blood-red hawthorn in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Atabaeva O. Sh.
Published: October 2023

Cardiovascular disease is widespread at the present time, causing the disability of the population. The main risk factors are hyperlipoproteinemia, hypertension, hyperglycemia, etc. Blood-red hawthorn Crataegus sanguinea, a species of the genus Hawthorn (Crataegus) of the Rose family (Rosaceae) is a universal remedy for the prevention of diseases of the cardiovascular system. Hawthorn medications have antihypertensive, cardioprotective, cardiotonic, antiarrhythmic, mild diuretic, antispasmodic and sedative effects. At the same time, biologically active substances of hawthorn are non-toxic and do not have pronounced side effects with prolonged use. In this regard, it is important to study the mechanisms of pharmacological action of drugs based on this plant in order to prolong and improve the quality of life of the population.
Neuromorphological bases of sensorimotor reactions
Authors: Сhrishtop V. V. , Nikonorova V. G.
Published: October 2023

Sensory motor activity is a typical form of purposeful human functioning that plays a significant role in the work of power structures. Its research is widespread in all spheres of military medicine. The aim of the study is to systematize the components and principles of organization of structural and functional elements of the central nervous system providing sensorimotor reactions based on the literature data. We obtained results on the combination of the somatotopic arrangement and the hierarchical principle of organization of sensorimotor circuits, according to which three levels are distinguished - medullary, subcortical and cortical. Sensory signals are converted into explicit motor signals as early as possible, and are subsequently subjected to modulating influences from memory, attention, and other neurophysiological processes at each of the above levels. Thus, sensory and motor information processing should not be regarded as the result of isolated neural circuits, but as extensive and closely interconnected networks covering the cerebral cortex and subcortical structures, in unity with other neurophysiological phenomena, such as memory and attention. The neuromorphological basis for the organization of sensorimotor reactions should be considered when developing a set of measures for professional selection, training, pharmacological correction of combat conditions and treatment of posttraumatic syndrome in employees of power structures.
Anterior talofibular ligament plastic in patients with chronic ankle instability (literature review)
Authors: Zakharov G. G. , Zakharova M. A. , Lychagin A. V. , Drogin A. R. , Podlesnaya A. A.
Published: October 2023

Ankle joint injury is one of the leading nosologies in the general structure of the musculoskeletal system lesions, not only among professional athletes, but also among the adult population in general. In case of conservative therapy ineffectiveness, chronic instability of the ankle joint develops, which can significantly reduce the patient’s quality of life, in this situation, the surgical treatment becomes uncontested. The choice of the surgical intervention method is determined not only by the nature of the injury, but also by the ligamentous-tendon apparatus condition. In addition, to a large extent, surgical tactics is chosen based on the preferences of the individual surgeon. The article describes the anatomical and physiological features and risk factors that determine the occurrence of acute the ankle joint instability and its transition to a chronic state, as well as the main methods of the anterior talofibular ligament plastic surgery and their common modifications. Special attention is paid to the effectiveness evaluating methods of surgical techniques on cadaveric ligamentous material. An analysis of the literature shows that the study of the issue remains insufficient. New clinical data obtaining will increase the effectiveness of the surgical technique for ankle instability treating and significantly improve the quality of life of patients.
Assessment of the glutathione system and the biomolecules oxidation products contribution to the state of free radical homeostasis in women of two ethnic groups with insomnia
Authors: Semenova N. V. , Lesnaya A. S. , Madaeva I. M. , Nikitina O. A. , Kolesnikova L. I.
Published: October 2023

Own and literature data showed a change in the free radical oxidation products and indicators of the glutathione system concentration in menopausal women with insomnia. The change in the studied parameters depended on the ethnicity of the patients. The aim of the study was to assess the informative value of these indicators and their contribution to the state of free radical homeostasis in menopausal women of Russian and Buryat ethnic groups with insomnia. Material and methods. The study involved women of the menopausal period of the Russian (n = 136) and Buryat ethnos (n = 94). The women underwent a general clinical examination and a questionnaire. Then they were divided into climacteric phases, control groups and groups with insomnia. Enzyme immunoassay, spectrophotometric and fluorometric methods of analysis were used to determine values of glutathione system and biomolecule oxidation products. The informative value of the studied indicators and their contribution to the state of free-radical homeostasis was assessed with the help of discriminant analysis. Results and discussion. The most informative indicators in the group of Russian women with insomnia in perimenopause were content of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), products of DNA oxidative modification, oxidized glutathione, glutathione reductase activity; in postmenopause – concentration of AOPP, products of DNA oxidative modification, and glutathione reductase activity. In Buryat perimenopausal women the most informative values were content of AGEs, of reduced and oxidized glutathione and their ratio, and in postmenopause – content of AGEs, of oxidized glutathione and glutathione reductase activity. Mathematical models have been developed that demonstrate the prevalence of the redox balance prooxidant component contribution in Russian ethnic group and the antioxidant component in Buryat ethnic group and allow characterizing patients with insomnia with high accuracy depending on the phase of menopause and ethnicity. Conclusions. In women of the Russian ethnic group with insomnia in the menopausal period, the greatest contribution to the state of free radical homeostasis is made by the products of oxidation of biomolecules, which characterizes the predominance of the processes of disadaptation. In women of the Buryat ethnic group, in response to insomnia in the climacteric period, the components of the glutathione system make the greatest contribution to the state of free radical homeostasis, which characterizes the activation of adaptive capabilities throughout the climacteric period.
New synthetic monophenolic antioxidant TS-13 penetrates the blood-brain barrier
Authors: Khrapova M. V. , Bryushinina O. S. , Zyuzkova Yu. G. , Kandalintseva N. V. , Menshchikova E. B.
Published: October 2023

TS-13 (sodium 3-(3’-tert-butyl-4’-hydroxyphenyl)propylthiosulfonate) is a synthetic antioxidant that has demonstrated biological effectiveness in numerous studies in modeling pathological conditions in vivo, in particular, in the model of Parkinson’s disease. In order to establish whether these effects are mediated or associated, among other things, with the direct effect of TS-13 on the organs and tissues of animals, in this work, the concentration of TS-13 in rat blood plasma and brain after intragastric administration was determined. Material and methods. After a single intragastric administration of a solution of TS-13 at a dose of 100 mg/kg, biomaterial (blood, brain) was taken for 24 h in male Sprague Dawley stock rats (n = 57). To measure the concentration of a substance in samples, a bioanalytical method was developed and validated using high-performance liquid chromatography with UV detection. Results and discussion. The method of quantitative determination was developed by us for the first time and validated before the study. It has been established that the calculated values of the calibration samples meet the acceptance criteria (have the required accuracy and precision) in the concentration range from 0.05 to 6 µg/ml, R=0.9998. The results of determining TS-13 concentration in rat blood plasma and brain showed that after a single administration per os, the compound enters the blood, where it is detected for 15 h (mean retention time 7.94 h, half-life 7.59 h, elimination constant 0.13 h-1, total clearance 40.1 l/(kg × h)), and also penetrates the blood-brain barrier, quickly entering the brain (maximum concentration is reached after 1 h). The compound has a low affinity for brain tissue (tissue availability 0.32), and therefore its concentration does not reach high values, however, a slow excretion of the substance is observed - the average retention time is 6.56 h, the half-life is 6.43 h, the elimination constant 0.11 h-1. Conclusions. After a single intragastric administration to rats, TS-13 enters the blood, where at least part of it is detected unchanged after 30 minutes, reaching maximum values after 1 hour. Similar kinetics of the substance is characteristic of the brain, where it is found in smaller amounts. Thus, as a result of the study, it was shown that TS-13 penetrates the blood-brain barrier and is able to directly affect brain structures, which, however, does not negate the possibility of an indirect effect mediated by the ability to change the activity of intra- and intercellular signaling systems.
Possibilities of a computerized training program for recovery of the attention and memory function in vascular cognitive disorders
Authors: Tarasova I. V. , Razumnikova O. M. , Trubnikova O. A. , Kukhareva I. N. , Syrova I. D. , Barbarash O. L.
Published: October 2023

Aim of the study was to assess the possibilities of recovering the functions of attention and short-term memory in patients with vascular cognitive disorders using a computer program for cognitive training. Material and methods. The study included 17 cardiac surgery patients who underwent a course of cognitive training, starting from 3–4 days after surgery, daily for 5–7 days. The cognitive training program consisted of tasks stimulating the functions of selective attention, visuospatial and working memory. Results. Almost all patients (88 %) reported an acceptable level of subjective difficulty in the performing cognitive training. After completing the cognitive training program, the selective attention improved in 53 % of cases, working memory – in 67 %, the visuospatial memory test scores – in 47 % of patients. Conclusions. The computer-based cognitive training program showed acceptable subjective difficulty in cardiac surgery patients. Approximately 50 % of patients showed an improvement in trained cognitive functions at the final stage of training. The results of approbation of the cognitive training program give an opportunity to determine the degree of compliance of cognitive rehabilitation methods with the psychophysiological status of patients undergoing cardiac surgery, including in the late postoperative period.
The relationship between methylation of tumor suppressor genes APC, GSTP1, RASSF1A and content of prostate-specific antigen- associated markers in prostate cancer diagnosis
Authors: Aboyan I. A. , Fedotova E. N. , Maksimov A. Yu. , Кomarova E. F. , Vlasov S. N.
Published: October 2023

Despite the improvement of prostate cancer (PCa) diagnostic methods and the introduction of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) monitoring, the incidence of advanced PCa in Russia remains high. New more informative variables are needed for the effective diagnosis of early stage and high-grade PCa. In the field of epigenetics of special interest is the detection of DNA hypermethylation, which can serve as a PCa biomarker, since it is common to find and may induce a stable appropriate gene silencing, leading to significant cell changes. Aim of the study was to analyze the relationship between methylation of the APC, GSTP1 and RASSF1A genes and total PSA and prostate health index (PHI) in PCa. Material and methods. The present study included 54 patients with suspicion of PCa, up to 75-years old, who had an initial total PSA level from 2.5 to 10 ng/ml. To calculate PHI value the concentrations of total PSA, free PSA and pre-mature form of PSA ([–2]proPSA) in blood serum were measured by chemiluminescence immunoassay. Results and discussion. The study has revealed the statistically significant correlation between the degree of methylation in blood plasma samples and biopsy material of only the GSTP1 gene and PSA-associated markers. We found an increase of parameters contingency as Gleason score increased. Conclusions. As a result of this work, statistically significant direct correlations were identified between changes in methylation patterns of the promoter region of the GSTP1 gene and PHI, which allows us to consider them as potential candidates for inclusion in a diagnostic panel for more effective early detection of prostate cancer.
Konkurencyjność handlu wewnątrzwspólnotowego surowcami roślinnymi i przetworzonymi produktami roślinnymi wybranych krajów członkowskich UE
Authors: Szubska - Włodarczyk Natalia
Published: October 2023

Celem artykułu jest określenie pozycji konkurencyjnej handlu surowcami roślinnymi i przetworzonymi produktami roślinnymi Polski na tle wybranych krajów członkowskich UE. Skupiono się przede wszystkim na nowych krajach członkowskich UE. Zastosowano metodę analizy ex post ilościowych mierników konkurencyjności. Do analizy wykorzystano dane pochodzące z EUROSTAT oraz ComExt.
Content, Context, and Collaboration: An Actionable Strategy for Structured Success in DNP Practice Scholarship
Authors: Wall-Haas Constance L.
Published: October 2023

Even if everything is done right in justifying the clinical benefit of a healthcare initiative, it cannot be sustainable if, first and foremost, the temperament of the practice environment, including the wider institutional hierarchy, is not accurately gauged. The purpose of this article is to provide the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) researcher with a systematic structure enabling a review of the larger context of the proposed clinical innovation. This review supports a DNP-led healthcare initiative through self-analysis of the researcher’s role; forging a relationship with a mentor; the analysis and mitigation of institutional, collaborative, and organizational barriers; and negotiating strategic partnerships with colleagues and departments and sharing their work and expertise. The blueprint that can change the interface of these elements is the creation of a specific research advisory committee (RADCOMM). The RADCOMM can be the impetus for transforming the institution into a place for learning, personal and professional growth and development, and patient safety, as well as one that results in new common resources and improved practice scholarship. The next generation of scholars and their capacity to understand their position in healthcare is inherently inhibited by not integrating the role and value of practice scholarship. The success of a DNP-led healthcare initiative, however, can positively affect the researcher’s mental health, productivity, and career satisfaction.
Experiencias pedagógicas de docentes de educación básica y media en el marco del confinamiento por pandemia Covid-19
Authors: Salamanca Mónica
Published: October 2023

Este estudio de corte fenomenológico tuvo como objetivo analizar las experiencias pedagógicas de un grupo de docentes de educación básica y media, en el municipio de Villa de Leyva, Colombia, durante el período de confinamiento por la pandemia de Covid-19. A través de entrevistas semiestructuradas a 10 docentes, se exploraron temas como la adaptación a la enseñanza en línea, desafíos tecnológicos, brecha digital, evaluación del aprendizaje y bienestar docente, entre otros. Los resultados revelaron que la capacitación para los docentes fue insuficiente; la desigualdad educativa se agravó, debido a la falta de acceso a internet y dispositivos digitales. La evaluación y medición del aprendizaje se dificultaron, así como mantener la atención y participación de los estudiantes. Además, los docentes enfrentaron sobrecarga laboral y afectaciones en la salud física y mental. La discusión resalta la importancia de una formación docente integral para una integración efectiva de las tecnologías en la enseñanza, también la necesidad de igualdad de acceso tecnológico y bienestar docente. En conclusión, se enfatiza aprender de esta experiencia para futuras transformaciones educativas, priorizando la inclusión tecnológica, equidad y bienestar.
Algının Mekan Değerlendirmesi Üzerine Etkisi: Bursa Hanlar Bölgesi Örneği
Authors: ENDER ALTAY Elvan , ŞENGÜL Sena
Published: October 2023

Bu araştırma kamusal bir mekan ile kullanıcı etkileşimindeki mekansal algıların anlaşılması için peyzaj mimarlığı disiplininde daha fonksiyonel ve bütüncül tasarımların ortaya konmasına katkı sağlamak amacıyla yapılmıştır. Araştırmada tarihi bir dokuya sahip olan araştırma alanı, kent kimliği kapsamında mekanı algılama kavramları ile değerlendirilerek incelenmiştir. Kentsel mekanlarda mekanın kent kimliği yönüyle değerlendirilmesinin yanında insan zihninde hangi ölçütlerle olumlu duygular oluşturulmasının araştırılması yönüyle çalışma önem kazanmaktadır. Araştırma alanı, Bursa'da Osmangazi İlçesi’nde bulunan Hanlar Bölgesi’dir. Araştırma; ölçütlerin belirlenmesi için literatür taraması, alan analizi, anket çalışması, verilerin analizi, sonuç ve önerilerin geliştirilmesi olmak üzere beş aşamada gerçekleştirilmiştir. Alan analizi 49 ölçütün

değerlendirilmesiyle gerçekleştirilmiştir. 1 ile 5 puan aralığında seçeneklerin bulunduğu bir puanlama sistemi içeren likert ölçeği ile değerlendirilen ölçütler sonucunda 25 ölçütün ortalamanın altında kaldığı, hiçbir ölçütün en yüksek puan olan 5’e yakın olmadığı bulunmuştur. Bu durum Hanlar Bölgesi’nin mekansal algı açısından kullanıcıya olumlu duygular yüklemediğini göstermektedir. Araştırma sonucunda belirlenen ölçütlerin ve elde edilen bulguların gelecek çalışmalar için bir altlık niteliği taşıması hedeflenmiştir.
The synthesis, characterization and application of the binol-cages of R-/S-enantiomers
Authors: Li Tianyu , Ding Luyao , Kang Yihong , Hao Xin-Qi , Guo Yujing , Shi Linlin , Song Mao-Ping
Published: October 2023

In the past few years, significant efforts have been made to create and self-assemble covalent organic cages with increased complexity and functionality. However, although supramolecule cages have been widely recognized as probes to identify metal ions, the detection of mercury ions has not been fully developed. Here, we have designed and synthesized a pair of chiral cages with custom cavities based on the unique rigid structure of 1, 10-binaphthol (binol). Meanwhile, the supramolecular cage has excellent performance in high sensitivity and selectivity for detecting mercury ions. The UV titration results indicate that the binding ratio of the host to guest is 1:5. The titration curve conforms to the nonlinear fitting of the Hill function, which can obtain the binding constant K = 2.57 × 105 M-1 . Furthermore, the detection limit of 1.9 × 10-7 M can be obtained because the absorbance of cages exhibits a strong linear relationship with Hg2+ concentrations. This work provides a new method for selective recognition of ions by supramolecular cages.
IDSMatch: A Novel Deployment Method for IDS Chains in SDNs
Authors: Niknami Nadia , Wu Jie
Published: October 2023

With a software-defined network (SDN), the control plane is separated from the data plane, allowing the control of network flows to be easy and dynamic at the same time. While the controller, which is equipped with various control applications, is capable of analyzing a large amount of data, it may become overburdened when it is faced with a large volume of traffic. The intrusion detection system (IDS) is an example of control applications that can be used to detect intrusions. It is recommended to deploy instances of the IDS across the data plane. This will improve the processing power and detection rate and as a result reduce the load on the controller at the same time. While there is no doubt that an IDS would be beneficial for improving detection rates, installing one at each switch in the data plane would be costly. To address this issue, this paper proposes the deployment of IDS chains across the data plane. The controller directs incoming traffic via alternative paths, including the IDS chain, which increases the detection rate while avoiding overloading. In order to improve transmission efficiency, our study proposes a method of balancing the distribution of flows and assigning them to specific IDS chains. This approach minimizes the cost of flow grouping through the use of a new incoming traffic grouping technique. Our method is tested and evaluated through the use of a test bed and trace-based simulation, and has been proven to effectively reduce delays and hop counts across various traffic scenarios.
A Review on Transparent Solar Panels
Authors: Mutagekar Rishi Rajesh , Kachare Sakshi Anil , Babre Pratham Satish , Bhirud Gunjan Dilip , Pendor Himanshu Nagraj , Shinde Avanti Vasant
Published: October 2023

This review paper explores the innovative realm of transparent solar panels, investigating their properties, applications, challenges, and recent advancements. Transparent solar panels, designed to harvest solar energy while allowing visible light to pass through, have gained significant attention due to their potential to revolutionize renewable energy technologies. The paper delves into the working mechanisms of various types of transparent solar panels, including Organic Photovoltaic (OPV) panels, Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSC), Perovskite Solar Cells, and Transparent Thin-Film Silicon Solar Cells. It discusses their integration into diverse applications, such as building-integrated photovoltaics, consumer electronics, the automotive industry, and aerospace. The review identifies challenges, including low efficiency, durability concerns, production costs, and integration hurdles, that currently hinder their widespread adoption. Moreover, the paper emphasizes the transformative potential of transparent solar panels in shaping the future of renewable energy, not only as energy generators but also as aesthetically pleasing and multifunctional components of our built environment. Finally, the paper underscores the need for continued research and development efforts to enhance efficiency, improve stability, and address integration challenges, paving the way for transparent solar panels to play a central role in the transition toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.
Theory of Major and Minor Numerical Progressions
Authors: Cardoso Carlos Eduardo Ramos
Published: October 2023

The study presents an assertion and explanation that major and minor numerical progressions occur that depend on the representation contained in physical space. In general cases, larger numbers are multiples and smaller numbers are simple, because multiple numbers contain more numbers in many physical spaces than simple numbers. In specific cases, they depend on the statement of what the specific representation is, and different realities from general cases may occur. Also, the theory explains the change in the number of prime numbers.
Measurement and Dynamic Trend Research on the Development Level of Rural Industry Integration in China
Authors: Han Hao , Chenyang Liu , Ling Xin
Published: October 2023

China is a traditional agricultural country, and the integration of rural industries has become an essential policy direction for the current strategy of agricultural modernization in China. In recent years, the agricultural industrial chains across various regions of China have consistently expanded and extended. The multifunctionality of agriculture is continuously unearthed, and the principal entities managing agriculture have become increasingly diversified and have grown significantly. New industries and forms in agriculture emerge incessantly. Accurately and profoundly understanding the inherent features of the integration of industries in rural China, establishing a scientific and rational measurement index system in line with the current status and development goals of rural China, and employing appropriate measurement methods to assess its development level and process, is instrumental in comprehending the level of integrated development in various regions. This aids in identifying challenges in the developmental process and proposing targeted developmental strategies. Hence, this paper, rooted in the integration of rural industries, cross-industry, industry extension, industry agglomeration, and industry penetration, sets up an measurement index system. Using provincial panel data from 2011 to 2020, the paper measures the level of integrated development in rural industries across China and its 31 provinces. Based on the measurement results, further techniques such as kernel density estimation and Gini coefficient decomposition have been used to analyze the spatial distribution characteristics and dynamic trends of the integrated development of rural industries in China. Research indicates that during the sample period, the overall level of integrated development in rural industries in various provinces in China has shown an upward trend. Development among the eastern, central, and western regions is highly uneven, but this disparity has been gradually narrowing in recent years. Furthermore, the levels of integrated development in different provinces exhibit significant spatial agglomeration effects. The development level of neighboring regions significantly impacts the province's development status. In the process of integrated development of rural industries in China, there's a trend where "it's easier to downgrade than to upgrade," with very few regions achieving leapfrog development.
4–6 éves gyermekek félspontán narratíváinak grammatikai szerkesztettsége
Authors: Krániczné Szabó Ágnes
Published: October 2023

A tanulmány 4–6 éves gyermekek félspontán narratíváiban vizsgálja a szintaktikai szerkesztettséget a közlésegységek fejlődési mutatójának a módszerével. Arra a kérdésre keresi a választ, hogyan alakul a gyermekek közléseinek grammatikai komplexitása az adott életkorokban, miként változik a narratívák hossza és a beszédtempó az évek során, valamint hogyan befolyásolja a grammatikai komplexitást az, ha a szülők gyakran olvasnak hangosan a gyermekeknek. Az eredmények azt mutatják, hogy a 4–5 éves gyermekekhez képest a 6 évesek több szóból álló narratívákat hoznak létre, ezek grammatikai szempontból is összetettebbek. Azoknál a gyermekeknél, akiknek a szülei keveset olvasnak hangosan, gyengébb eredményeket lehetett adatolni, mint azoknál a gyermekeknél, akiknek minden este olvasnak a szülei. A vizsgálat során a gyermekek között nagy egyéni eltérések voltak megfigyelhetők. A nyelvi szint fejlettsége hatással lehet a későbbi tanulási folyamatokra, így az esetleges lemaradások korai felismerése után nagyon fontos a megfelelő fejlesztések elvégzése.
Csernicskó István – Hires-László Kornélia – Karmacsi Zoltán – Márku Anita – Molnár D. István – Máté Réka – Tóth-Orosz Enikő: Hungarians and the Hungarian Language in Transcarpathia (Váradi Krisztián)
Authors: Váradi Krisztián
Published: October 2023

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Online QoS/QoE-driven SFC Orchestration Leveraging a DRL Approach in SDN/NFV Enabled Networks
Authors: Escheikh Mohamed , Yakoub wiem Taktak
Published: October 2023

The proliferation of the ever-increasing number of highly heterogeneous smart devices and the emerging of a wide range of diverse applications in 5G mobile network ecosystems impose to tackle new set of raising challenges related to agile and automated service orchestration and management. Fully leveraging key enablers technologies such as Software Defined Network (SDN), Network Function Virtualization (NFV) and Machine Learning (ML) capabilities in such environment is of paramount importance to address Service Function Chaining (SFC) orchestration issues according to user requirements and network constraints. To meet these challenges, we propose in this paper a Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) approach to investigate online Quality of Experience (QoE)/Quality of Service (QoS) aware SFC orchestration problem. The objective of this work is to fulfill intelligent, elastic and automated Virtual Network Functions (VNF)s/Container Network Function (CNF)s deployment optimizing end-to-end user experience while respecting QoS constraints. We implement the DRL approach through using a variant of Deep-Q-Network (DQN) algorithm referred to as Double DQN. We show how DRL agent behaves along the learning process for different PSN scales. We highlight also the impact of a set of hyper-parameters such as batch size and learning rate on solving the sequential decision problem related to SFC orchestration. The evaluation of the learning process is achieved based on the quality of learning with respect to the number of runs. In this regard, we use QoE metric to define a score quantifying the quality of learning.
Modeling the diagnosis and control infertility couples with different factors
Authors: Ghasemabadi Atena , Hafezi Somayeh Ghiasi , Effati Sohrab , Namakin Kosar , Zand Mohammadreza Ahmadi , Ghamsary Mark
Published: October 2023

Background: There are different etiologies of infertility. Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a leading cause of infertility among women, and the male factor accounts for about 50 % of the total number of infertile couples. As with various etiologies, various treatments are required. Choosing the most suitable procedure of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) for individuals is of great importance. Therefore, mathematical models are needed to estimate the success rate of ART for every individual and to determine which treatment suits the best for each couple.
Objective:In this study, we aim to present a new dynamic model that can predict the success rate of ART models for each base on the etiology of their infertility, lab tests, and clinical findings.
Materials and Methods For this purpose, 502 participants were recruited and evaluated based on their BMI, AMH levels, the number of transferred embryos, and the etiology of infertility (PCOS, male factor, or both). For this purpose, the community is divided into eight classes: infertile susceptible couples, couples with the cause of infertility PCOS, male factor or both, couples with embryo quality A, B, and C, coupled with the positive βHCG test, couples with the positive result of clinical pregnancy and fertile couples.
Results: Our dynamic models evaluate the success rate of ART in our subgroups considering all of the effective factors such as BMI, AMH level, number of transferred embryos, and the etiology of infertility. We have found that (BMI > 30 kg/m2) and low AMH levels (< 3.5ng/mL) indicate lower success rates. Moreover, ICSI was more promising for all the underlying etiologies of male factor, PCOS, or both.
Conclusion: In conclusion, our new mathematical model is presented to investigate the dynamics and diagnose the cause of infertility in couples. It is shown that the equilibrium point free of disease is asymptotically stable. In this system, backward bifurcation occurs. When backward bifurcation occurs, we must reduce the primary reproduction number to less than one to eradicate the disease. In our system, we see that the factors that cause the reduction of the primary reproduction number are the factors used to eliminate infertility (the essential reproduction R0 depends on the recovery rate in infertile couples with positive clinical pregnancy (ξ). Therefore, backward bifurcation depends on the possibility of recovery. As the rate of recovery increases, the primary reproduction number R0 decrease and controls couple’s infertility.
When male factors and treatment methods cause infertility are IVF and IV F&ICSI, we demonstrate that there is no Hopf bifurcation, i.e., no periodic orbit emerges or vanishes due to a change in the stability of a fixed point.
StrokeClassifier: Ischemic Stroke Etiology Classification by Ensemble Consensus Modeling Using Electronic Health Records
Authors: Lee Ho-Joon , Schwamm Lee H. , Sansing Lauren , Kamel Hooman , de Havenon Adam , Turner Ashby C. , Sheth Kevin N. , Krishnaswamy Smita , Brandt Cynthia , Zhao Hongyu , Krumholz Harlan , Sharma Richa
Published: October 2023

Determining the etiology of an acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is fundamental to secondary stroke prevention efforts but can be diagnostically challenging. We trained and validated an automated classification machine intelligence tool, StrokeClassifier, using electronic health record (EHR) text data from 2,039 non-cryptogenic AIS patients at 2 academic hospitals to predict the 4-level outcome of stroke etiology determined by agreement of at least 2 board-certified vascular neurologists’ review of the stroke hospitalization EHR. StrokeClassifier is an ensemble consensus meta-model of 9 machine learning classifiers applied to features extracted from discharge summary texts by natural language processing. StrokeClassifier was externally validated in 406 discharge summaries from the MIMIC-III dataset reviewed by a vascular neurologist to ascertain stroke etiology. Compared with stroke etiologies adjudicated by vascular neurologists, nine base classifiers performed well with a mean cross-validated area under the receiver operating curve (AUCROC) of 0.90. Their ensemble meta-model, StrokeClassifier, achieved a mean cross-validated accuracy of 0.74 and weighted F1 of 0.74. In the MIMIC-III cohort, the accuracy and weighted F1 of StrokeClassifier were 0.70, and 0.71, respectively. SHapley Additive exPlanation analysis revealed that the top 5 features contributing to stroke etiology prediction were atrial fibrillation, age, middle cerebral artery occlusion, internal carotid artery occlusion, and frontal stroke location. We then designed a certainty heuristic to deem a StrokeClassifier diagnosis as confidently non-cryptogenic by the degree of consensus among the 9 classifiers, and applied it to 788 cryptogenic patients. This reduced the percentage of the cryptogenic strokes from 25.2–7.2% of all ischemic strokes. StrokeClassifier is a validated artificial intelligence tool that rivals the performance of vascular neurologists in classifying ischemic stroke etiology for individual patients. With further training, StrokeClassifier may have downstream applications including its use as a clinical decision support system.
High-Accuracy Slope Stability Analysis Using Data-Driven and Attention-Based Deep Learning Model
Authors: Zhou Yangli , Fu Haiying , Zhou Mingzhe , Zhao Yanyan , Wei Wei
Published: October 2023

Because of the abrupt occurrence and severe consequences of slope disasters, the analysis of slope stability has always been a focal point in the field of slope disaster prevention. In previous studies, traditional methods were employed to analyze the stability of slopes, which not only require considerable temporal and manpower investments but also fail to effectively predict the development trends of slope stability, thereby posing challenges in slope disaster prevention. However, the emergence of data-driven approaches based on deep learning has forged a novel avenue for slope disaster prevention. Recently, a transformer model is proposed, which has an attention module to deeply learn the high dimensionality correlation between the properties of slopes and the stability of slopes. In this study, we have pioneered a novel approach to slope stability analysis, utilizing the transformer model for the first time. We have developed new computer code, curated a dataset consisting of 72,000 slope samples, and demonstrated the superior predictive capabilities of the transformer model in comparison to LSTM and Attention-LSTM models. Subsequently, we conducted further study on transformer-based multi-classification and regression models. Significantly, the regression model outperformed in predicting slope stability, reaching an impressive accuracy of 99.983%. The results indicate that the deep learning approach based on the transformer model has shown great potential and advantages as a novel method for slope stability analysis. Its high accuracy and short computation time will contribute to rapid on-site decision-making in geotechnical engineering applications.
Peroxidase-like Fe0@FeMn-NC for the efficient degradation of 4-CP: Critical role of Fe0
Authors: Lv Xinxin , Liu Huilai , Li Zhihao , Cui Minshu , Cui Kangping , Guo Zhi , Dai Zhengliang , Wang Bei , Chen Xing
Published: October 2023

Peroxidase-like based on double transition metals have higher catalytic activity and are considered to have great potential for application in the field of pollutant degradation. First, in this paper, a novel Fe0-doped three-dimensional porous Fe0@FeMn-NC-like peroxidase was synthesized by a simple one-step thermal reduction method. The doping of manganese was able to reduce part of the iron in Fe-Mn binary oxides to Fe0 at high temperatures. In addition, Fe0@FeMn-NC has excellent peroxidase-like mimetic activity, and thus it was used for the rapid degradation of p-chlorophenol (4-CP). During the degradation process, Fe0 was able to rapidly replenish the constantly depleted Fe2+ in the reaction system and brought in a large number of additional electrons. The ineffective decomposition of H2O2 due to the use of H2O2 as an electron donor in the reduction reactions from Fe3+ to Fe2+ and from Mn3+ to Mn2+ was avoided. Finally, based on the experimental results of LC-MS and combined with theoretical calculations, the degradation process of 4-CP was rationally analyzed, in which the intermediates were mainly p-chloro-catechol, p-chloro resorcinol and p-benzoquinone. Fe0@FeMn-NC nano-enzymes have excellent catalytic activity as well as structural stability, and perform well in the treatment of simulated wastewater containing a variety of phenolic pollutants as well as real chemical wastewater. It provides some insights and methods for the application of peroxidase-like enzymes in the degradation of organic pollutants.
Overall Health Knowledge in Philippine: Multilevel Confirmatory Factor Analysis of Philippine National Demography Heath Survey 2022 Data
Authors: Lotfy Nesma
Published: October 2023

Objective
To confirm the underlying structure among the knowledge of communicable and noncommunicable diseases using multilevel confirmatory factor analysis and to determine if the structure differ according to gender or residence.
Methods
A secondary data analysis of Household Questionnaire from the 2022 PNDHS was conducted. PNDHS data is a two-level data; level-1 is within household (household questionnaire), and level-2 is between households (primary sampling unit (PSU)), so multilevel confirmatory factor analysis was implemented (two-level CFA and two-level variance CFA). Also, multigroup analysis was done to assess the structure difference between male/female and urban/rural. All computations were performed using STATA version 16.0.
Results
Knowledge of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, dengue fever, TB, and COVID − 19 found 96.7%, 94.9%, 97.8%, 98.4%, 96.7%, and 92.8%, respectively. According to two-level CFA, the coefficient loading of each item toward the two levels were all statistically significant (P < 0.001). Regarding two level variance CFA, the variance of level-1 is higher than the variance of the level-2 (13 and 6.7 respectively). The multigroup analysis discover that the model has measurement non-invariant (not equal) across gender and residence (P = 0.000, P = 0.000, respectively).
Conclusion
The level-1 has great effect compared to level-2 as the variance of level-1 is greater than level-2. The factor loading toward the two levels are different according to gender and residence, so more investigation is needed to determine the causes of this difference.
An Effective Procedure to Improve Covariates Balance for Multiple Groups in Randomized Trials
Authors: Li Na , Meng Zhen
Published: October 2023

In clinical trials, it is important to compare the differences in treatment effects among multiple groups to determine the effectiveness of certain treatments for a disease. Statistical inferences are typically made assuming that the sample is representative, with subjects randomly assigned to each treatment group and minimal allocation differences. To address these allocation differences, various randomization methods have been proposed, including complete randomization, rerandomization, pairwise sequential randomization, and k-resolution sequential randomization (k-RSR).In this paper, we propose an extension of the k-RSR method called multiple k-resolution sequential randomization (Mk-RSR).Mk-RSR aims to minimize the integrated measurement Mahalanobis distance among multiple groups with equal group size. While the original k-RSR method was developed for two groups, Mk-RSR is designed for two or more groups. By using Mk-RSR, researchers can achieve a balanced allocation and obtain a reasonable estimate of treatment effect.Theoretical results demonstrate that Mk-RSR is more likely to achieve the optimal value compared to existing methods. Extensive simulation studies and an example analysis are conducted to illustrate the superiorities of Mk-RSR.
A Matched Case-Control Analysis of Autonomous vs Human-Driven Vehicle Accidents
Authors: ding shengxuan , Abdel-Aty Mohamed
Published: October 2023

Despite the recent advancements that autonomous vehicles (AV) have shown in their potential to improve safety and operation, considering differences between AV and human-driven vehicles (HDV) in accidents remain unidentified due to the scarcity of real-world AV accident data. We investigate the difference in accident occurrence between AV levels and HDV by utilizing 2,100 AV (ADS and ADAS) and 35,113 HDV accident data. A matched case-control design was conducted to investigate the impact of different variables on the likelihood of accidents involving AV versus HDV. The analysis suggests that AVs tend to be safer than HDVs in many accident situations. Yet, the likelihood of an AV accident during dawn/dusk or while making turns is greater than that of HDVs in the same situations. Moreover, rear end accidents in which an AV hits an HDV are less common than those where an HDV hits an AV. Our research sheds light on the accident risk disparities between AVs and HDVs, informing future developments in AV technology and safety enhancements.
Calculating exposure to extreme sea level risk will require high resolution ice sheet models
Authors: Williams C , Thodoroff Pierre , Arthern Robert , Byrne James , Hosking J. Scott , Kaiser Markus , Lawrence Neil , Kazlauskaite Ieva
Published: October 2023

The West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) is losing ice and its annual contribution to sea level is increasing. The future behaviour of WAIS will impact societies worldwide, yet deep uncertainty remains in the expected rate of ice loss. High impact low likelihood scenarios of sea level rise are needed by risk-averse stakeholders but are particularly difficult to constrain. Here we combine traditional model simulations of the Amundsen Sea sector of WAIS with Gaussian process emulation to show that ice-sheet models capable of resolving kilometre-scale basal topography will be needed to assess the probability of extreme scenarios of sea level rise. This resolution exceeds many state-of-the-art continent-scale simulations. Our model simulations show that lower resolutions tend to overestimate future sea level contribution and inflate the tails of the distribution. We therefore caution against relying purely upon low resolution simulations when assessing the potential for societally important high impact sea level rise.
Boost vs Nudges: perceived effectiveness and criticism shape preferences for sustainable behavioral policies.
Authors: Paunov Yavor , Grüne-Yanoff Till
Published: October 2023

Boosts and nudges are two separate types of behavioral public policies, distinguished by the mechanisms through which they operate. Nudges make use of cognitive biases and changes in the decision environment to promote sustainable behavior, while boosts seek to induce the desired outcomes by improving people’s energy-saving competences. In an online study, we asked our respondents to express their preferences towards typical nudge and boost exemplars. Descriptions depicting different policy types to reduce energy consumption were presented in a 4-group randomized between-subjects design. We found that people’s preferences depended on the perceived effectiveness of the respective types, and the degree of criticism they expressed towards them. Interestingly, the participants were less critical towards boosts, but indicated that they preferred nudges. This preference was reversed when participants assumed that boosts were more effective than nudges. We also demonstrated that a fit between perceived intervention effectiveness and communicated effectiveness information lowers the probability of switching preferences from one intervention type to the other.
Assessing food safety legislation in China with a focus on trend analysis
Authors: Liu Yang , McKirdy Simon , Kachigunda Barbara , Grehan Helena , Zheng Dan
Published: October 2023

In China, with the improvements in living standards, the demand for food is increasing rapidly each year. China has a food culture that has been evident for thousands of years. Different regions, different ethnic groups, and different natural environments have resulted in a broad range of different food cultures. The types of food in China have been developing in a diversified trend according to the traditions of various places. Due to the diversity of foods, the status of the food legislation in China is complex nowadays, so managing these diverse foods has become even more important. This paper analyses existing food safety laws in China, utilizing synchronic and diachronic analyses, to assess the new changes and trends in Chinese food legislation in recent years, and to assist in the further development of appropriate food legislation. This research has identified that the Chinese government has had a strong focus on the development of food safety laws over the last few decades. The results identify the need to establish a corresponding prediction, supervision, and handling system for food safety issues, and proactively continue to improve the food safety legal system. The results also show that the main influencing factors on China's food legislation include the following: national policies, population density, economic development level, and the natural environment.