bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study to Evaluate the Compliance to Packaging Laws in Pakistan by Local and International Tobacco Industries
Authors: Askary Syed Hussain , Jamshed Abdul Ahad , Askary Gulrukh , Sheikh Ali Raza
Published: March 2023

Introduction – Tobacco control laws are one of the most effective means aimed to combat the widespread use of tobacco. Pakistan has come a long way in getting a grip on this pandemic, however much is yet to be done. With the poor implementation of laws, tobacco companies are able to capitalize on this to boost the sale of their products among the population.
Methods – A cross-sectional study was done in which data regarding tobacco packaging was collected from various shops that deal with the sale of cigarettes. This data was then compiled and compared with tobacco control laws to determine the compliance of brands with local packaging laws.
Results – A total of 100 brands were collected and analyzed, out of which 55 were local and 45 were manufactured internationally. From the entire sample, only 28% of the brands were following every protocol laid down by the Ministry of Health.
Conclusion – This study was able to portray poor adherence to tobacco packaging laws of various tobacco companies operating in Pakistan. Majority of the brands were seen to be lacking in at least one component of the law, which shows poor implementation and enforcement of policies. There is a dire need for Pakistan to promote more effective means of tobacco control through the implementation of strict guidelines.
Changes in the characteristics and outcomes of pregnant women who delivered prior to and after China’s universal two-child policy: A real-world retrospective study, 2010-2021
Authors: Zhu Caixia , Zhang Shaofeng , Shen Lixia , Ye Lisha , Zhan Minjin , Cai Shiqin , Huang Jingwan , Wang Zilian , Chen Haitian
Published: March 2023

Background In 2016, “universal two-child” policy, allowing each couple to have two children, was introduced in China. The characteristic change of the long-term peroid after implementation of universal two-child policy was unclear. To investigate trends in the obstetric characteristics and their potential impact on the rates of cesarean section and preterm birth in the era of China’s universal two-child policy.
Methods A tertiary center-based study (2010-2021) retrospectively enrolled 39 016 single pregnancies who delivered from the one-child policy period (OCP,2010-2015) to the universal two-child policy period (TCP, 2016-2021). Maternal demographics, complications, delivery mode and obstetric outcomes were analyzed. Furthermore, logistic regression analysis was used to explore the association between cesarean section rate, preterm birth and implementation of the universal two-child policy.
Results The proportion of women with advanced maternal age (AMA) increased from 14.6% in the OCP to 31.6% in the TCP. The number of multiparous women increased 2-fold in the TCP. In addition, the overall rate of cesarean section significantly decreased over the policy change, regardless of maternal age, whereas the risk of preterm birth significantly increased in the TCP. Adjusting for maternal age, parity and fetal distress, the universal two-child policy showed a significantly favorable impact on the cesarean section rate (RR 0.745, 95%CI (0.714-0.777), P<0.001). Compared to the OCP group, a higher increase in fetal distress and prelabor rupture of membranes (PROM) were observed in the TCP group. In pregnancies with AMA, there was no increase in the risk of postpartum hemorrhage, whereas more women who younger than 35 years old suffered from postpartum hemorrhage in TCP. The logistic regression model showed that the universal two-child policy was positively associated with the risk of postpartum hemorrhage (RR: 1.135, 95%CI: 1.025-1.257, P=0.015).
Conclusions After the implementation of the universal two-child policy in China, the rate of the cesarean section significantly decreased, especially for women under 35 years old. However, the overall risk of postpartum hemorrhage increased in women under 35 years old, while there was no change in women with AMA. Under the new population policy, the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage in the young women should not be neglected.
Traffic Qualification in SD-WMN using Ensemble based Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Noutat Judith Soulamite Nouho , Ndie Thomas Djotio , Bessala André Cédric
Published: March 2023

The traffic classification problem formulation is NP-hard and has known several resolution approaches where the emerging one is the machine learning approach. However, these approaches have primarily focused on traditional wired and wireless networks and rarely on Software-Defined Wireless Mesh Networks (SD-WMNs). A Software-Defined Network (SDN) makes network monitoring easier by separating the control plane of the network from the data plane. This paper discusses the limits of traffic classification in the network and proposes an approach based on supervised ensemble machine learning adapted to SD-WMN to classifier traffic efficiently in three stages: (a) a traffic-monitoring phase, (b) an IP flow collection phase and, (c) a traffic classification phase by the ensemble supervised machine learning. Ensemble methods are techniques that aim at improving the accuracy of results in models by combining multiple models instead of using a single model. The combined models significantly increase the accuracy of results. We performed experiments on Mininet-wifi emulation platform as data plane with Ryu as SDN controller in control plane. The supervised ensemble learning yields: (a) for the Bagging algorithm with the Random Forest algorithm, an accuracy of 99.90%, with an F1 score of 99.90% and, (b) for Boosting with the XGBoost algorithm, an accuracy of 99.97% with an F1 score of 99.96%. XGBoost appears as the best traffic classification model.
Use of pre-equilibrium information by AMPA glutamatergic receptors
Authors: Braunstein Helena , Ventura Alejandra , Colman-Lerner Alejandro
Published: March 2023

Glutamate mediates fast excitatory neurotransmission by the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA)-type glutamate receptors in the central nervous system. It has long been shown that glutamate affinity for AMPA receptors is submicromolar. However, the concentrations of glutamate required to elicit ligand-dependent currents are at up to five hundred-fold higher, in the submillimolar range. How is it that glutamate may exert dose-dependent responses in a concentration range at which AMPA receptors are largely saturated, has remained unexplained. Here, we employed a mathematical modeling approach using published reaction rates that shows that AMPARs operate in a pre-equilibrium sensing and signaling (PRESS) regime. By operating before equilibrium binding, AMPARs exploit a transient dynamic range shifted to high ligand concentrations. We also show that the key transition enabling PRESS is the fast desensitization, and we propose that natural regulators of this step, such as transmembrane AMPAR regulatory proteins, would modulate AMPARs dynamic range by modifying the time window in which AMPARs may use pre-equilibrium information. We speculate that the use of PRESS by AMPARs helps restrict the postsynaptic area of action of this fast transmission. Other receptors with fast desensitization may also take advantage of PRESS to accurately control dose-dependent responses.
Choose the surgery or not? That is the question. Function preservation after endoscopic- assisted removal of small vestibular schwannomas: a case series
Authors: Zhu Jiandong , Gu Jingyu , Sun Song , Zhai WeiWei , Yu Zhengquan , Wu Jiang
Published: March 2023

Background: Three primary treatment modalities exist for small vestibular schwannomas (VSs): wait-and-scan, radiosurgery, and tumor removal. We report the outcomes and preservation of function after retrosigmoid small VS removal with endoscopic assistance and clarify the management paradigm for small VSs.
Methods: Six patients with small VSs who underwent resection through the retrosigmoid approach with endoscope assistance from January 2019 to December 2022 in our department were enrolled in this study. Data on these patients’ age prior to surgery, side of surgery, tumor size, preoperative and postoperative pure tone average, and word recognition scores were acquired, and the surgical outcomes and postoperative complications were evaluated.
Results: The tumor was first removed by a conventional microscopic procedure with the help of neurophysiological monitoring, and then an endoscope was used to find and remove any residual lesions. Gross-total resection was facilitated using an operative endoscope in 5 patients (83%), with additional tumors visible through the endoscope. All patients (100%) had a House-Brackmann facial nerve grade of II or better at the last follow-up. Among the four patients (67%) who had good preoperative hearing, the hearing was preserved in 3 patients and one patient had poor hearing after surgery. Total resections were achieved in all the patients (100%).
Conclusions: As a result of a surgical technique that involves endoscopy-assisted craniotomy with intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring, retrosigmoid removal of small VSs can lead to successful curative tumor removal with excellent functional outcomes. Thus, surgical resection should be the first-line treatment for patients with small VSs who can tolerate surgery.
Population data of the Heron Colonies in the Reedbed of Lake Kolon from a Non- Disturbance high altitude Aerial Photogrammetry based Survey
Authors: Bakó Gábor , Molnár Zsolt , Biró Csaba , Morvai Edina , Ábrám Örs , Demény Krisztina , Molnár András , Göndös Dorottya
Published: March 2023

Indicator species can provide warning signals for upcoming changes or shifts to an ecosystem such as climate change. Heron colonies as indicators are also suitable for monitoring changes in our environment, the effectiveness of habitat restoration or the effects of impacts. That’s why the importance of population survey is increasing. We have tested a high-altitude survey method of a breeding heron colony in Lake Kolon pilot area that allows accurate bird counting without disturbing the birds. Previously, the survey of large body-sized heron colonies was only statistically well analysed for nest counts. Surveying breeding colonies using 0.5 cm field resolution orthophotos taken with calibrated cameras carried on aircraft flying at over 240 km/h from 700 m above the ground provides much more accurate information. Individuals can be detected on at least 14 orthophotos and additional oblique images, and the resolution and geometric accuracy of approximately 20 cm increases the reliability of identification and reduces the risk of multiple counts. The primary aim of the surveys is to provide data of the heron colonies in 2018 and 2019 in Lake Kolon, and to do so in a way that the examination does not cause disturbance to the birds.
Development of in vitro cardiovascular tissue models within capillary circuit microfluidic devices fabricated with 3D Stereolithography printing
Authors: Esparza Aibhlin , Jimenez Nicole , Joddar Binata , Natividad-Diaz Sylvia
Published: March 2023

Human cardiovascular tissue and diseases are difficult to study for novel drug discovery and fundamental cellular/molecular processes due to limited availability of physiologically-relevant models in vitro.[1–3] Animal models may resemble human heart structure, however there are significant differences from human cardiovascular physiology including biochemical signaling, and gene expression.[4–6] In vitro microfluidic tissue models provide a less expensive, more controlled, and reproducible platform for better quantification of isolated cellular processes in response to biochemical or biophysical stimulus.[6–12] The capillary driven-flow microfluidic device in this study was manufactured with a 3D stereolithography (SLA) printed mold and is a closed circuit system operating on principles of capillary action allowing continuous fluid movement without external power supply. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and human cardiomyocytes (AC16) were encapsulated into a fibrin hydrogel to form vascular (VTM) and cardiac (CTM) tissue models respectively. To determine response to biophysical stimulus, the 3D cardiovascular tissue was directly loaded into the device tissue culture chambers that either had no microposts (DWoP) or microposts (DWPG) for 1, 3 and 5 days. The tissues were analyzed with fluorescent microscopy for morphological differences, average tube length, and cell orientation between tissues cultured in both conditions. In DWPG VTMs displayed capillary-like tube formation with visible cell alignment and orientation, while AC16s continued to elongate around microposts by day 5. VTM and CTM models in devices with posts (DWPG) displayed cell alignment and orientation after 5 days, indicated the microposts induced biophysical cues to guide cell structure and specific organization.
Does Etoricoxib or Dexamethasone Control Inflammatory Pain, Edema, and Trismus After Impacted Third Molar Surgery? a Double-Blind, Split-Mouth Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Mariano Ronaldo Célio , Villela Geraldo Alves , de Menezes Pedro Henrique Moraes , Saraiva Maria Conceição Pereira , Antoniali Cristina
Published: March 2023

Purpose:This double-blind, split-mouth randomized clinical trial investigated whether etoricoxib or dexamethasone is effective to control postoperative pain, edema, and trismus after extraction of impacted mandibular third molars.
Methods: Twenty-eight patients received a single dose of dexamethasone (4 mg) (G1) or etoricoxib (120 mg) (G2) before surgery and were examined for the presence of pain, edema, and trismus for 72 h. Pain was evaluated by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and total administration of rescue analgesic medication (paracetamol, 500 mg tablets). Edema was quantified by the VAS and five facial measures, whereas trismus was assessed by measuring the maximum opening of the mouth. Twenty-eight patients in need of impacted third molar surgery met the eligibility criteria.
Results: Patients in G2 used rescue analgesic medication 12 h after surgery and reported minimal pain experience in the VAS (0.335 cm), suggesting that postoperative pain was significantly controlled with the administration of etoricoxib (P < 0.0001). Patients who received dexamethasone experienced pain levels 3.6-fold greater in the VAS (1.21 cm) and used the rescue analgesic medication more frequently, with a mean of 3.4 tablets. While the facial measures showed no significant differences between the groups concerning edema, self-assessed VAS data indicated that G1 patients experienced edema more frequently. There were significant differences regarding the control of trismus between the groups (P> 0.05).
Conclusion: Our findings indicated that etoricoxib (120 mg) was significantly more effective in controlling postoperative pain than dexamethasone (4 mg) and that both drugs were comparable for the control of edema and trismus.
Aesthetic Analysis of Green Open Space (GOS) Landscape Elements
Karebosi Field Complex
Authors: Dollah/Corespondency Aris Sakkar , Mursyid  , Januartiputri Andi Mega
Published: March 2023

Urban aesthetics is one of the main components that can contribute to overcoming the weakness of the gloomy picture of urban areas by strengthening the formation of public spaces, in this case, green open spaces, according to the demands of society. This research seeks to examine landscape elements that do not contribute to or reduce the aesthetic value of the appearance of green open spaces by exploring visitor perceptions. This study seeks to show the role of landscape elements in enhancing aesthetic configurations and social functions to meet community needs. This research was conducted using a survey method with descriptive analysis. Data collection was carried out by observation and documentation techniques. The results showed that elements of jogging paths, fences, grass fields, and seats were landscape elements which were the main points in the aesthetic assessment which did not support the aesthetic image of this green open space.
Alteration in the level of NR2F2-AS1/ miR-320b / BMI1 differentially converges with the progression of gastric adenocarcinoma toward metastasis
Authors: Ghorbanzadeh Shadi , Pourghasem Navid , Amiz Roghayeh , Afsa Masoumeh , Malekzadeh Kianoosh
Published: March 2023

A regulatory pathway centered on lncRNA NR2F2-AS1/miR20b effects on dysregulation of BMI1 was hypothesized particularly in higher stages, which was confirmed by our bioinformatics examinations. An increase of more than 2-fold for BMI-1 and lncRNA NR2F2-AS1, respectively found in lower stages, and elevation continued with the increasing stage of the disease, and converged with significant downregulation of miR-320b and PTEN, noticing their association with tumor progression and decreased patient survival. lncRNA NR2F2-As1 acts as an oncogene to sponge miR-320b making changes in BMI1. A reduction in the amount of miR-320b against lncRNA NR2F2-AS1 and BMI1 directly correlates with a reduced overall survival rate of patients, especially if this disproportion is more than 3.0. Further study by gene ontology and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that disruption in the expression of BMI1 interplays in WNT, AKT, and RTK pathways affected the cell cycle, and provide the condition in favor of tumor progression. ROC curve analysis indicated that alteration in the level of BMI1 and lncRNA NR2F2-AS1 showed more than 94.0% sensitivity and specificity to differentiate the lower from higher stages of GC and predict the early onset of metastasis. This study can suggest another molecular aspect in the pathogenesis or prognostic marker for the progression of GC, particularly if this event is also observed in the blood of the patients.
Identify an Innovative Fatty Acid Metabolism-Related Gene in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Fu Kai , Li Lin , Liu Tengfei , Yin Shaoning
Published: March 2023

Background: Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are the sixth largest group of malignancies worldwide. Due to the highly aggressive, heterogeneousness and tumor microenvironment, the variable prognosis of HNSCC patients is changeable. Fatty acid metabolism-related genes (FAMGs) play a vital role in the development of malignant tumors, but the role in HNSCC is still unclear. The purpose of this study was to establish a reliable prognostic model based on FAMGs for evaluating the prognosis and immunotherapy of HNSCC patients and find the key prognostic genes to provide guidance for the early diagnosis and treatment.
Methods: We obtained cancer-related data from various public databases.
The FAMGs risk score model was established and proved by a combination of univariate Cox analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis. Combining risk scores and clinical characteristics, a nomogram was created and validated. Subsequently, the function, immune difference, immune infiltration, enrichment analysis, and hub genes of the groups with high‐ and low‐risk scores were analyzed. Consequently, the mode's validity was evaluated comprehensively by combining single gene analysis and pan-cancer analysis.
Results: we screened out 73 differentially expressed FAGMs and 9 genes associated with prognosis to construct a prognostic risk score model for genes related to fatty acid metabolism. The FAMGs signature was an independent prognostic factor for HNSCC, and patients in the low-risk group had higher overall survival (OS) than those in the high-risk group. In addition, we found differences in immune cell infiltration and enrich pathways between the different risk score groups. Finally, through the risk assessment model, combined with multiple databases, PTGDS, a high-risk and prognosis-related gene, was screened. And it showed a trend of low expression in many cancers, which predicted the prognosis of many cancers, especially in HNSCC.
Conclusion: Metabolism-related genes affect the prognosis and survival of patients with HNSCC through affecting tumor microenvironment. And PTGDS can predict the survival and prognosis of cancer patients as an independent effective prognostic factor, particularly in HNSCC.
Team assembly approach based in social modelling
Authors: Anaya Antonio R. , Letón Emilio , Luque Manuel
Published: March 2023

Team assembly is an important issue when collaborative or cooperative activities between people are carried out. In the educational context, it seems relevant to us to consider in the assembly process how students interact with others. Therefore, it is appropriate to carry out a process to model social behavior. In turn, the experts will be able to use the modeling information to establish the appropriate criteria to differentiate between assembly strategies according to the educational contexts. Our social behavior modeling process proposal is based on the information that can be extracted from the interactions and is guided by experts. We propose an approach divides into steps. Firstly, social network analysis metrics are used to study students’ social interactions. Secondly, a set of social interactions attributes are offered so that experts can organize them hierarchically. Thirdly a quantitative information on the students’ relationship that an influence diagram can infer due to the attributes hierarchically ordered. Once the modelling process is out, the qualitative information may be used to improve the team assembly. We describe in this paper two experiences where we have put it into practice our approach. The students made a peer review task. However, the pedagog-ical strategies that experts followed were different for each experience.
Differences of birds communities of levee forests in wetlands
Authors: Brarda Carolina Antonella , Manzano Adriana Silvina , Piña Carlos Ignacio , Frutos Antonio Esteban
Published: March 2023

Context.
The fluvial forests on the islands, called levee forests, have vertical vegetation stratification. This contributes to the structural complexity that allows the presence of a great bird diversity on island and among fluvial corridors.
Objectives.
The aim was to evaluate differences in the avifauna of levee forest. We hypothesized that birds make a differential use of the different types of levee forests, which is reflected in the bird assemblage structure of each forest type.
Methods.
The “Delta del Paraná” Ramsar site is a wetland of international importance. A comparative analysis of richness, abundance and diversity was conducted in the different levee forests using the point count method.
Results.
Three types of levee forest were obtained: open, intermediate and closed forests, according to the floristic composition, tree cover, and height of the herb stratum. A total of 85 bird species were recorded. The differences in birds communities structure were found among seasons, between sites and among forest types. We found the highest richness, abundance, and diversity values in open forests. These reveals the structural variation in the levee forests offer in their interior and show the microscale variation in forest wetlands, which have been considered a single homogeneous environmental unit in floodplains.
Conclusions.
The finding that open forests harbor the most heterogeneous environment in levee environments reflects the importance of microspatial-scale heterogeneity in landscape configuration and how this variation contributes to maintaining high biodiversity in fluvial wetlands for both avifauna as for the biota in general.
High expression of ZNF692 impairs overall survival in patients with colorectal cancer-analysis of immunohistochemical staining and bioinformatics data
Authors: ge xiaosong , Ge Xiaosong , Liu Fen , Liu Xiaoyuan , Gao Xiang , Mao Yong
Published: March 2023

Zinc finger protein 692 (ZNF692) promotes tumor progression as a potential oncogene, but its role in colorectal cancer (CRC) is not fully understood. We therefore carried out the present study to explore the correlation between ZNF692 expression and the progression of CRC. In this study, Tissue microarray and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining was applied to detect the expression of ZNF692 protein in formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissues. The colorectal cancer data in TCGA database is analyzed and verified using R language. Our results showed that ZNF692 expression in CRC tissues was significantly upregulated compared with the matched normal tissues. (p < 0.05). Among 248 colorectal cancer tissues, 126 had high expression of ZNF692. In addition, there was a significant association between ZNF692 expression and age, M stage and histologic grade between the two groups, but not other clinical characteristics. Multivariate analysis showed that high expression of ZNF692 was an independent predictor of prognosis in colorectal cancer patients. The results of bioinformatics analysis also confirmed that the expression level of ZNF692 affects the prognosis of patients with CRC. In conclusion, our results suggest that the high expression of ZNF692 is associated with the poor prognosis and could be a novel biomarkers in colorectal cancer patients.
ELOVL2, a novel and potential tumor antigen guided mRNA vaccine development for retroperitoneal liposarcoma
Authors: Wang Zhenyu , Tao Ping , Fan Peidang , Wang Jiongyuan , Rong Tao , Zhou Yuhong , Lu Weiqi , Hong Liang , Ma Lijie , Zhang Yong , Tong Hanxing
Published: March 2023

Background
The exploration of lipid metabolism dysregulation may provide novel perspectives for retroperitoneal liposarcoma (RPLS). In our study, we aimed to investigate potential tumor antigen for mRNA vaccine development and facilitate further understanding of immune landscape in RPLS, through lipid metabolism-associated genes (LMAGs) based prognostic model.
Methods
Gene expression profiles and corresponding clinical information of 234 cases were enrolled from two public databases and the largest retroperitoneal tumor research center of East China, including cohort-TCGA (n = 58), cohort-GSE30929 (n = 92), cohort-FD (n = 50), cohort-scRNA-seq (n = 4) and cohort-validation (n = 30). Consensus clustering analysis was performed to identify lipid metabolism-associated molecular subtypes (LMSs). A prognostic risk model containing 13 LMAGs was established using LASSO algorithm and multivariate Cox analysis in cohort-TCGA. ESTIMATE, CIBERSORT, XCELL and MCP analyses were performed to visualize the immune landscape. WGCNA was used to identify three hub genes among the 13 model LMAGs, and preliminarily validated in both cohort-GSE30929 and cohort-FD. Moreover, TIMER was used to visualize the correlation between antigen-presenting cells and potential tumor antigens. Finally, single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis of four RPLS and immunohistochemistry were performed in cohort-validation to check the discoveries of bioinformatics analysis.
Results
LMS1 and LMS2 were characterized as immune-infiltrated and -excluded tumors, with significant differences in molecular features and clinical prognosis, respectively. ELOVL2 was negatively correlated with antigen-presenting cells and identified as a potential tumor antigen for mRNA vaccine development. Furthermore, ELOVL2 was enriched in LMS2 with significantly lower immunoscore and unfavorable prognosis. Finally, a high-resolution dissection through scRNA-seq was performed in four RPLS, revealing the entire tumor ecosystem and validated previous findings.
Conclusions
The LMS subgroups and risk model based on LMAGs proposed in our study were both promising prognostic classifications for RPLS. ELOVL2 is a potential tumor antigen linking lipid metabolism to immune regulations for mRNA vaccine development against RPLS, specifically for patients with LMS2 tumors.
Machine-Driven Design and Dimensioning of NFV-Enabled MEC Infrastructure to Support Heterogeneous Latency-Critical Applications
Authors: Hiabeh Lina Abou , Yagoub Mustapha , Jarray Abdallah
Published: March 2023

Mobile edge computing (MEC) has recently been introduced as a key technology, emerging in response to the increased focus on new heterogeneous computing applications, resource-constrained mobile devices, and the long delay of traditional cloud data centers. Despite considerable research attention to understanding how the heterogeneous latency-critical application requirements can interact with a MEC system, there remains a dearth of literature on deploying a flexible MEC infrastructure at the mobile operator to meet the demands of an anticipated heterogeneous mobile traffic.
From a dual perspective, this paper addresses the design and dimensioning of a machine-driven Network Function Virtualization-enabled MEC infrastructure problem. The proposed approach leverages a neural network model, a subset of machine learning, to predict the number of service function chains (SFCs) required for the time-varying mobile traffic load and to proactively auto-scale the different types of virtual service instances. A Mixed-Integer Linear Program (MILP) is then employed to create a physical MEC system design by mapping the predicted virtual SFC networks to the MEC nodes while minimizing deployment costs. The numerical results demonstrate that the machine learning model achieves a high prediction accuracy of 95.6%, highlighting the added value of using the ML technique at the edge network. This approach reduces deployment costs while ensuring delay requirements for different latency-critical applications and high acceptance rates.
Grafting of electrically stimulated subventricular neural stem cells embedded in a nutritional hydrogel into the stroke cavity improved cell survival and behavioural recovery in mice
Authors: Gresita Andrei , Surugiu Roxana , Catalin Bogdan , Doeppner Thorsten R , Pirici Daniel , Daniela Calina , Coman Cristin , Hermann Dirk M , Popa-Wagner Aurel , Boboc Ianis KS
Published: March 2023

The major aim of stroke therapy is to stimulate brain repair and improve behavioral recuperation after cerebral ischemia. One option is to stimulate endogenous neurogenesis in the sub-ventricular zone (SVZ) and direct the newly formed neurons to the damaged area. However, only a small percentage of these neurons survive and, of those that do, many will not reach the damaged area possibly because the corpus callosum impedes the migration of SVZ-derived stem cells into the lesioned cortex. A second major obstacle to stem cell therapy is the strong inflammatory reaction induced by cerebral ischemia whereby the associated phagocytic activity of brain macrophages removes both therapeutic cells and/or cell-based drug carriers. In order to address these issues, neurogenesis was electrically stimulated in the SVZ followed by isolation of proliferating cells including the newly formed neurons which were subsequently mixed with a nutritional hydrogel. This mixture was then transferred to the stroke cavity of day 14 post-stroke mice. We found that the treated animals showed improved performance with behavioral tests including novel object, open field, hole board, grooming, and „time-to-feel’ the adhesive tape. Furthermore, immunostaining showed that the stem cell markers nestin and Mash1, found in stimulated SVZ, survived for 2 weeks following transplantation. These results clearly indicate that transplantation of committed SVZ stem cells combined with a protective nutritional gel, directly into the infarct cavity after the peak of stroke-induced neuroinflammation, represents a feasible approach to improve neurorestoration after cerebral ischemia.
Nondestructive Testing of Ultrasonic Welded Polymer-Based Composites Using Active Thermography Method
Authors: Tirband Hamed , Akbari Davood , Kalajahi Pouya Faraji , Mohammadian Milad
Published: March 2023

Ultrasonic welding is one of the most common methods for joining the polymer parts. It provides a rapid joining with a proper strength. Ultrasonic welding is also considered as a clean joining. This method is widely used in joining of thermoplastic parts. But, in order to weld the thermoset parts, a coupling layer shall be incorporated. This method occasionally is perfect because of voids and improper adhesion between to welded parts, leading to significant weld strength reduction. Consequently, application of a kind of NDT method could be useful for quality assurance of these parts. In this paper, active IR thermography is employed to nondestructively test of ultrasonically welded Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastics (GFRP). In order to study the weld microstructure, SEM analysis is performed. The results indicated that the IR thermography is capable to detect the existence of some defects in the welding zone. The Lap-shear tests indicate that the dimensions of the defect reduce the weld strength, significantly.
Duplex Baseband Signal Transmission Over Free Space Optical (FSO) Link Employing Carrier Reuse
Authors: Zaheer
Published: March 2023

With increasing IoT and a plethora of multimedia applications being used, there is an ever-increasing demand for bandwidth-intensive applications coupled with cost-effectiveness. Communication networks employing optical fiber had been de facto standard for such communication systems. The Optical Fiber network's high cost and man-hours required for laying demand wireless solutions. Therefore, an optimum and cost-effective duplex optical link for two channels baseband signal data transmission has been designed and validated using a single laser source. The link is designed for high data rate transmission between buildings within 1.5~2 km utilizing modular and low complexity. An optical link for 20 Gb/s duplex data transmission is designed using a single laser source. A transmission distance of 1.5 km has been achieved by providing a cost-efficient design with low complexity by utilizing differential quadrature phase shift keying (DQPSK) and On-Off Keying (OOK) modulation techniques. The design allowed us to reuse the downlink signal for the uplink transmission over free Space, thus eliminating the requirement for a separate laser at the other end. Each channel's transmission data rate was 10Gb/sec. At the former end, the DQPSK technique was employed for data modulation and the data was transmitted into free space. The data was then split at the latter end for downlink reception along with reusing the downlink received signal for uplink transmission to the former end utilizing the OOK modulation technique. The received data was compared with the transmitted one to verify and validate the system's accuracy through signal waveforms and BER (Bit Error Rate). Bit error rate (BER) curves and eye diagrams of the received uplink and downlink signal over a duplex transmission single fiber link are provided.
A comparison of management policies for referee appointments in European men’s football
Authors: Atan Tankut , Çavdaroğlu Burak , Yavuz Zühal Özcan
Published: March 2023

Purpose/Rationale: Referee appointments to football fixtures are made behind closed doors and only a handful of people in respective committees fully know what the policies governing these appointments are. Said appointment criteria include referees’ performances in recent matches but performance information such as the merit tables in the English Premier League are not open to the public. We investigate what the underlying management policies are in the highest football divisions in European men’s football.
Design/Methodology/Approach: To uncover the underlying appointment policies, we conduct a statistical analysis of the central referee appointments in several European men’s leagues in the five seasons from 2017 to 2022.
Findings: While we point out differences among the investigated leagues including the ‘Big Five, our analysis also shows that the officials may often be influenced by public opinions when taking those decisions.
Practical implications: A uniform appointment policy such as the one applied in La Liga can be more beneficial for referee development and fairness.
Research contribution: This research identifies differences in the appointment policies of various European men’s football leagues. Furthermore, a uniform appointment policy is suggested as a more useful appointment policy.
Two Simple and Effiffifficient Methods for a Class of Composite Functions Optimization
Authors: Wang Jinjiang , Hu Yanhong , Song Wen
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we focus on optimizing the optimization problems with the objective function formed as a sum of three terms: one is smooth, and the other two are simple convex functions with known structures. This problem
is challenging to solve, as the last two functions are both non-smooth and non-separable. Existing algorithms have high computational complexity and do not deal with large-size problems. To effiffifficiently solve this problem, we propose two ways to simplify it. One way is to introduce an additional variable to reformulate it as an equivalent two-block separable convex minimization model. Then we apply an approximate alternating direction method of multipliers(ADMM) to solve the equivalent model and establish a worst-case $O(1/k) $convergence rate for this method. Another way is to research the dual of the equivalent problem, and use an optimal fifirst-order method to solve the dual problem. Furthermore, we show that this method achieves a faster convergence rate of $O( 1/k ^2 )$. Finally, we also demonstrate an application called the fused Lasso problem.
Vergleich eines vektoriell errechneten EKGs mit den Standardableitungen im Rahmen einer Fahrradergometrischen Untersuchung
Authors:   , Langanke Jörg Alexander
Published: March 2023

Einführung In den letzten Jahren wurden mobile Endgeräte in zunehmenden Maße zur Messung biometrischer Daten wie z.B. Herzfrequenz, Blutdruck, Sauerstoffsättigung und EKG Messungen wie z.B. Rhythmusstörungen verwendet. In den meisten Fällen kann bezüglich eines EKG hierbei nur eine einzige Ableitung gemessen werden. Mit Ausnahme von EKG-Brustgürteln sind Messungen nur in Ruhe möglich. Letztere sind häufig nicht als Medizinprodukte zugelassen. Veränderungen in einem vektoriell, aus einer reduzierten Elektrodenzahl, errechneten EKG unter Belastung, welche mit einem mobilen Endgerät gemessen wurden, sind bisher nicht evaluiert worden. Einige Pathologien werden nur unter Stressbedingungen demaskiert, so dass mit den aktuellen Systemen eine diagnostische Lücke im häuslichen Umfeld existiert. Es wurde ein mit einem mobilen Endgerät (Smartphone/Tablet) vektoriell abgeleitetes 4 Elektroden EKG System mit dem aktuellen Goldstandard 12-Kanal EKG sowohl in Ruhe als auch unter Belastung verglichen. Methoden und Ergebnisse 428 Patienten wurden während einer fahrradergometrischen Untersuchung simultan mit beiden EKG Systemen untersucht. Das vektorielle EKG wurde als errechnetes 12-Kanal EKG dargestellt und bezüglich EKG-Qualität und diagnostischer Genauigkeit mit dem Standard EKG verglichen. Alle EKGs wurden unabhängig durch 2 verblindete und in der EKG Interpretation versierten Ärzte untersucht. Die EKG Qualität in beiden Verfahren war gut. In Ruhe gab es eine ausgezeichnete Übereinstimmung zwischen beiden EKG Technologien in Hinsicht auf Rhythmus (98%), AV-Überleitung (97%), Wellendauer (90%) und elektrischer Achse (88-97%). Während der Belastung gab es eine Übereinstimmung in 90% der Fälle. Der positiv prädiktive Wert lag bei 48.5% und der negativ prädiktive Wert bei 94%. ST-Deviationen >0.2 mV zeigten eine 97% Übereinstimmung während des Stresstests. Rhythmusstörungen und intraventrikuläre Leitungsstörungen (Links- und Rechtsschenkelblock) konnten in jeweils >90% der Fälle übereinstimmend identifiziert werden. Schlussfolgerung Ein mobiles Endgerät kann benutzt werden, um vektoriell errechnete 12-Kanal EKGs unter Alltagsbedingungen zuverlässig darzustellen. Die diagnostische Aussagekraft dieser EKGs in Ruhe und unter Belastung ist gut.
Itinerant ferromagnetism in dilute SU(N) Fermi gases
Authors: Pera Jordi , Casulleras Joaquim , Boronat Jordi
Published: March 2023

We present exact analytic results for the energy of a SU(N) repulsive
Fermi gas as a function of the spin-channel occupation at second order
in the gas parameter. This is an extension of previous results that now
incorporates the degree of polarization of the system. Therefore, the
magnetic properties of the gas can be obtained, free from numerical
uncertainties. For spin 1/2 we find that second-order corrections change
the itinerant ferromagnetic transition from continuous to first-order.
Instead, for spin larger than 1/2 the phase transition is always of
first-order type. The transition critical density reduces when the spin
increases, making the phase transition more accessible to experiments
with ultracold dilute Fermi gases. Estimations for Fermi gases of Yb and
Sr with spin 5/2 and 9/2, respectively, are reported.
Probing a leptophobic top-colour model with cross section measurements and precise signal and background predictions: A case study
Authors: Altakach Mohammad Mahdi , Butterworth Jonathan Mark , Ježo Tomaš , Klasen Michael , Schienbein Ingo
Published: March 2023

The sensitivity of particle-level fiducial cross section measurements
from ATLAS, CMS and LHCb to a leptophobic top-colour model is studied.
The model has previously been the subject of resonance searches. Here we
compare it directly to state-of-the-art predictions for Standard Model
top quark production and also take into account next-to-leading order
predictions for the new physics signal. We make use of the Contur
framework to evaluate the sensitivity of the current measurements, first
under the default Contur assumption that the measurement and the SM
exactly coincide, and then using the full SM theory calculation for t ¯t
at next-to-leading and next-to-next-to-leading order as the background
model. We derive exclusion limits, discuss the differences between these
approaches, and compare to the limits from resonance searches by ATLAS
and CMS.
Determination of biochemical indicators of winter rape seeds under different growing conditions
Authors: Topchii Oksana , Korol Larysa , Dikhtiar Iryna , Ivanytska Alla , Bezprozvana Iryna
Published: March 2023

Purpose. To determine the biochemical indicators of seed quality of winter rape varieties grown under different conditions.
Methods. During the research, the following methods were used: laboratory, calculation and statistical, to prepare conclusions – analysis and synthesis.
Results. According to the results of laboratory studies, biochemical indicators of the quality of seeds of winter rape varieties, grown in different conditions, were established, namely: the content of oil, “crude protein” and glucosinolates. Meteorological conditions during the vegetation period of plants of the corresponding soil and climate zone have a significant influence on the quality indicators of seeds. Based on the results of the research, it was established that in 2022, compared to 2020, the biochemical indicators of winter rapeseed were higher. The increase in yield by 1.6 t/ha in the Steppe zone, 1.1 t/ha – Forest-Steppe, 1.4 t/ha – Polissia ensured an increase in oil content by 2.4% – Steppe, 6.6% – Forest-Steppe, 6.7% – Polissia and oil collection per hectare by 0.74 t/ha – Steppe and Polissia, 0.62 t/ha – Forest-Steppe. For the content of “crude protein”, a decrease in the index was observed, namely: by 3.1% in the Steppe zone, 5.8% in the Forest-Steppe and 5.0% in the Polissia in 2022 compared to 2020. Meteorological conditions of the research years in the corresponding soil and climatic zones had an influence on the content of glucosinolates. For the Steppe and Forest-Steppe zones, the indicators were identical and amounted to 0.7%, 0.8% (Polissia), while in 2021, for the Steppe and Polissia zones, the content of glucosinolates in rapeseed was 0.8% and 0.9% more, compared to the indicators obtained in other years of research.
Conclusions. It was established that, on average, for 2020–2022, the total oil content in seeds of rape was 46.2% – Steppe, 47.5% – Forest-Steppe, 47.8% – Polissia; “crude protein” content – 19.6% – Steppe, 18.4% – Forest-Steppe, 17.9% – Polissia; the content of glucosinolates was 0.7% in the Steppe and Forest-steppe zones, 0.8% in the Polissia; oil collection in the Steppe zone 1.31 t/ha, Forest-Steppe – 1.16 t/ha, Polissia – 1.33 t/ha; protein collection per hectare is 0.54 t/ha in Steppe, 0.44 t/ha in Forest-Steppe and 0.48% in Polissia. Growing conditions over the years of research in the corresponding zone affect the formation of biochemical indicators of winter rapeseed.
Content of macro- and microelements in the plants of Artemisia annua L., A. ludoviciana Nutt. and A. austriaca L.
Authors: Кorablova Olha , Rakhmetov Jamal , Shanaida Mariia , Vergun Olena , Svydenko Ludmyla , Voitsekhivskyi Volodymyr
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate mineral composition of the plants species Artemisia annua L., A. ludoviciana Nutt. and A. austriaca L.
Methods. Determination of the elemental composition of plant material was carried out by the X-ray fluorescence method.
Results. The content of mineral elements in plants depends on their individual ability to absorb elements from the soil and accumulate them in the roots, leaves and flowers. Plant samples of three species of wormwood were grown and studied during the flowering phase under conditions of introduction in M. M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (NBG) during 2019–2022. The qualitative and quantitative content of different macro- and microelements in the soil and plants were investigated. It was shown that aerial parts of the investigated plants accumulate the most important elements for the plants life, such as – K, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn. Mesoelements Ca and S are present in sufficient quantities also. Elements Nb, Y, Ti, V, Cr were detected in soil, but were not determined in plants. Only A. annua plants contains Ni and Se, while A. ludoviciana and A. annua plants contain Pb. The amount of toxic elements in plants did not exceed the maximum permissible concentrations for vegetable raw materials and food products.
Conclusion. Content of the main macro- and microelements was determined in the plants A. annua, A. ludoviciana and A. austriaca growing in NBG. The tendency of plants A. ludoviciana to accumulate high concentrations of iron in the roots and aerial part was observed. The obtained data will be useful for forecasting and evaluating the results of introduction of new promising species of the genus Artemisia, in breeding of new varieties of wormwood, to determine their pharmacological properties and to make a decision about the feasibility of using them in herbal tea and food products.