bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Face-Off: Adversarial Face Obfuscation
Authors: Chandrasekaran Varun , Gao Chuhan , Tang Brian , Fawaz Kassem , Jha Somesh , Banerjee Suman 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Advances in deep learning have made face recognition technologies pervasive. While useful to social media platforms and users, this technology carries significant privacy threats. Coupled with the abundant information they have about users, service providers can associate users with social interactions, visited places, activities, and preferences–some of which the user may not want to share. Additionally, facial recognition models used by various agencies are trained by data scraped from social media platforms. Existing approaches to mitigate associated privacy risks result in an imbalanced trade-off between privacy and utility. In this paper, we address this trade-off by proposing Face-Off, a privacy-preserving framework that introduces strategic perturbations to images of the user’s face to prevent it from being correctly recognized. To realize Face-Off, we overcome a set of challenges related to the black-box nature of commercial face recognition services, and the scarcity of literature for adversarial attacks on metric networks. We implement and evaluate Face-Off to find that it deceives three commercial face recognition services from Microsoft, Amazon, and Face++. Our user study with 423 participants further shows that the perturbations come at an acceptable cost for the users.
Déjà vu: Abusing Browser Cache Headers to Identify and Track Online Users
Authors: Mishra Vikas , Laperdrix Pierre , Rudametkin Walter , Rouvoy Romain 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Many browser cache attacks have been proposed in the literature to sniff the user’s browsing history. All of them rely on specific time measurements to infer if a resource is in the cache or not. Unlike the state-of-the-art, this paper reports on a novel cache-based attack that is not a timing attack but that abuses the HTTP cache-control and expires headers to extract the exact date and time when a resource was cached by the browser. The privacy implications are serious as this information can not only be utilized to detect if a website was visited by the user but it can also help build a timeline of the user’s visits. This goes beyond traditional history sniffing attacks as we can observe patterns of visit and model user’s behavior on the web. To evaluate the impact of our attack, we tested it on all major browsers and found that all of them, except the ones based on WebKit, are vulnerable to it. Since our attack requires specific HTTP headers to be present, we also crawled the Tranco Top 100K websites and identified 12, 970 of them can be detected with our approach. Among them, 1, 910 deliver resources that have expiry dates greater than 100 days, enabling long-term user tracking. Finally, we discuss possible defenses at both the browser and standard levels to prevent users from being tracked.
Configuration of soft-tissue sarcoma on MRI correlates with grade of malignancy
Authors: Sedaghat Sam , Ravesh Mona Salehi , Sedaghat Maya , Both Marcus , Jansen Olav 
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Background
The aim of the study was to assess whether the configuration of primary soft-tissue sarcoma (STS) on MRI correlates with the grade of malignancy.

Patients and methods
71 patients with histologically proven STS were included. Primary STS were examined for configuration, borders, and volume on MRI. The tumors were divided into high-grade (G3), intermediate-grade (G2) and low-grade (G1) STS according to the grading system of the French Federation of Cancer Centers Sarcoma Group (FNCLCC).

Results
30 high-grade, 22 intermediate-grade and 19 low-grade primary STS lesions were identified. High- and intermediate-grade (G3/2) STS significantly most often appeared as polycyclic/multilobulated tumors (p < 0.001 and p = 0.002, respectively). Low-grade (G1) STS mainly showed an ovoid/nodular or streaky configuration (p = 0.008), and well-defined borders. The appearance of high-, intermediate- and low-grade STS with an ovoid/nodular configuration were mainly the same on MRI. All streaky G3/2 sarcoma and 17 of 20 patients with polycyclic/multilobulated G3 sarcoma showed infiltrative borders. High-grade streaky and polycyclic/multilobulated STS are larger in volume, compared to intermediate- and low-grade STS.

Conclusions
Configuration of STS on MRI can indicate the grade of malignancy. Higher-grade (G2/3) STS most often show a polycyclic/multilobulated configuration, while low-grade STS are mainly ovoid/nodular or streaky. Infiltrative behavior might suggest higher-grade STS in streaky and polycyclic/multilobulated STS.
Deep inspiration breath hold reduces the mean heart dose in left breast cancer radiotherapy
Authors: Falco Michał , Masojć Bartłomiej , Macała Agnieszka , Łukowiak Magdalena , Woźniak Piotr , Malicki Julian 
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Background
Patients with left breast cancer who undergo radiotherapy have a non-negligible risk of developing radiation-induced cardiovascular disease (CVD). Cardioprotection can be achieved through better treatment planning protocols and through respiratory gating techniques, including deep inspiration breath hold (DIBH). Several dosimetric studies have shown that DIBH reduces the cardiac dose, but clinical data confirming this effect is limited. The aim of the study was to compare the mean heart dose (MHD) in patients with left breast cancer who underwent radiotherapy at our institution as we transitioned from non-gated free-breathing (FB) radiotherapy to gated radiotherapy (FB-GRT), and finally to DIBH.

Patients and methods
Retrospective study involving 2022 breast cancer patients who underwent radiotherapy at West Pomeranian Oncology Center in Szczecin from January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2017. We compared the MHD in these patients according to year of treatment and technique.

Results
Overall, the MHD for patients with left breast cancer in our cohort was 3.37 Gy. MHD values in the patients treated with DIBH were significantly lower than in patients treated with non-gated FB (2.1 vs. 3.48 Gy, p < 0.0001) and gated FB (3.28 Gy, p < 0.0001). The lowest MHD values over the four-year period were observed in 2017, when nearly 85% of left breast cancer patients were treated with DIBH. The proportion of patients exposed to high (> 4 Gy) MHD values decreased every year, from 40% in 2014 to 7.9% in 2017, while the percentage of patients receiving DIBH increased.

Conclusions
Compared to free-breathing techniques (both gated and non-gated), DIBH reduces the mean radiation dose to the heart in patients with left breast cancer. These findings support the use of DIBH in patients with left breast cancer treated with radiotherapy.
Non-invasive laboratory, imaging and elastography markers in predicting varices with high risk of bleeding in cirrhotic patients
Authors: Petrisor Ana , Stanescu Ana Maria Alexandra , Papacocea Ioana Raluca , Panaitescu Eugenia , Peagu Razvan , Moldoveanu Alexandru Constantin , Fierbinteanu-Braticevici Carmen 
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Introduction. Upper digestive tract endoscopy remains the gold-standard for detecting esophageal or gastric varices and assessment of bleeding risk, but this method is invasive. The aim of the study was to identify non-invasive factors that could be incorporated into an algorithm for estimating the risk of variceal bleeding.

Methods. A prospective study was performed on 130 cirrhotic patients. Tests were performed on all patients which included liver enzymes, complete blood count and coagulation parameters, abdominal ultrasound, elastography of both the liver and the spleen. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed in all patients included in the study and the results were classified, in accordance with Baveno VI into 2 outcome groups: Group 1 – patients with low bleeding risk and Group 2 – patients with varices needing treatment.

Results. The study lot (130 patients) was divided into: Group I (low bleeding risk – 102 patients), and Group II (high bleeding risk – 28 patients). Parameters found to have significant differences in univariate analysis were transaminases, platelet count, spleen size, INR, portal vein diameter and both liver and spleen elastography. Calculating AUROC for each parameter identifies spleen elastography as having the best result, followed by INR, AST and platelet count. Liver elastography had the worst AUROC. Independent variables identified by logistic regression included spleen elastography, INR, platelet count, spleen diameter, ALT, age, and gender.

Conclusions. Spleen stiffness is the best single parameter predicting the presence of high-risk esophageal varices.
Relationship between serum leptin levels, non-cardiovascular risk factors and mortality in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Risovic Ivona , Vlatkovic Vlastimir , Popovic-Pejicic Snjezana , Malešević Gabrijela 
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Introduction. Hemodialysis (HD) patients have higher mortality rate than the general population. Recent studies indicate a significant role of non-cardiovascular risk factors in for mortality in HD patients. Leptin is protein hormone and may indicate malnutrition in HD patients. Its role in mortality in these patients is being examined. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between serum leptin levels and non-cardiovascular risk factors and relationship between leptin level and mortality in HD patients.

Methods. The prospective study included 93 patients on maintenance HD and follow-up period was 12 months. We measured leptin level and evaluated non-cardiovascular risk factors: nutritional status, anemia, volemia, parameters of mineral and bone disorder.

Results. Out of 93 patients 9 died during study and 1 underwent kidney transplantation. Malnutrition and hypervolemia were two main non-cardiovascular risk factors among deceased subjects. Leptin showed a significant direct correlation with nutritional BMI (r = 0.72, P < 0.001), fat tissue index (r = 0.74, P < 0.001) and statistically significant inverse correlation with leantissue index (r = -0.349, P < 0.05) and inverse correlation with volemic parameters (overhydration / extracellular water ratio (r = -0.38, P < 0.001), but no association with anemia and mineral bone parameters was observed. Elevated leptin levels were associated with better survival. However, no statistically significant difference in survival rates was observed between the study groups (Log-Rank P =0.214, Breslow P =0.211, Tarone-Ware P=0.212).

Conclusion. Deceased patients had significantly lower leptin values. Leptin was associated with two non-cardiovascular risk factors for mortality: malnutrition and hypervolemia.
Sepsis and the muscle tissue. A narrative review
Authors: Oikonomou Eleousa , Paraskevas Themistoklis , Velissaris Dimitris 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Sepsis and septic shock are considered major factors in the development of myopathy in critically ill patients, which is correlated with increased morbidity rates and ICU length of stay. The underlying pathophysiology is complex, involving mitochondrial dysfunction, increased protein breakdown and muscle inexcitability. Sepsis induced myopathy is characterized by several electrophysiological and histopathological abnormalities of the muscle, also has clinical consequences such as flaccid weakness and failure to wean from ventilator. In order to reach definite diagnosis, clinical assessment, electrophysiological studies and muscle biopsy must be performed, which can be challenging in daily practice. Ultrasonography as a screening tool can be a promising alternative, especially in the ICU setting. Sepsis and mechanical ventilation have additive effects leading to diaphragm dysfunction thus complicating the patient’s clinical course and recovery. Here, we summarize the effects of the septic syndrome on the muscle tissue based on the existing literature.
Using the Industrial Wastes in the Base Layer of Pavement
Authors: Georgiana Lixandru Cătălina , Mihai Dicu , Bogdan Andrei 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
This paper evaluates the possibility of using artificial aggregates from blast furnace slag, considered industrial waste, which can replace, in a certain dosage, the natural aggregates in the composition of an AB 22,4 asphalt mixture. Furthermore, it is presented the possibility to replace the usual filler with powders from industrial wastes such as the desulphurization waste, generated by the combustion of the energetic coal.
Laboratory studies and researches are carried out according to prescribed techniques. For this purpose, for the evaluation of the performance of the asphalt mixture recipes will be evaluated by static and dynamic tests as described in AND 605: 2016.
The results of this study show the possibility of using asphalt mixtures with different dosages of industrial wastes in composition.
The results obtained from the laboratory tests have shown that materials from industrial waste can be used in the design of asphalt mixtures with the purpose of replacing natural materials, used in certain dosages, which demonstrates good behavior in interaction with the usual bituminous binder.
Design of Single-Purpose Milling Machine Prototype and its Verification With Respect to Defined Criteria
Authors: Bučányová Marcela , Kusá Martina 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The application of individual components in the milling machine design must be monitored because of the mechanical load affecting individual parts. For this reason, defined and monitored parameters within the design include, for example, individual fixed elements, the acting forces and the material properties of individual parts. In fact, the material properties are one of the main criteria included in the control calculations and numerical simulations that were developed to verify the proposed structure.
Industrial Energy Efficiency Towards Green Deal Transition. Case of Latvia.
Authors: Locmelis Kristaps , Blumberga Andra , Bariss Uldis , Blumberga Dagnija , Balode Lauma 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Energy efficiency policy has been one of the European Union top priorities for decades and will continue to play a vital role in the next 10 years with the introduction of The Clean energy for all Europeans. Likewise, in Latvia energy efficiency has been given high priority; however, the energy efficiency targets for industry has lacked ambitions. This research focuses on evaluating the Latvian industrial energy efficiency policy using top-down approach and benchmarking energy intensity of Latvian industry to the average of the European Union’s. Results confirm that on average Latvian industry consumes 2.6 times more energy to produce the same amount of value added compared to the average in the European Union; however, every saved energy unit in Latvia would save twice less CO2 emissions considering already largely decarbonized energy mix. In the spotlights of the Green Deal proposed by the European Commission, much higher contribution in terms of CO2 reduction and energy efficiency will be expected from the industry. Nevertheless, energy efficiency targets for Latvian industry should be sector-specific, separately addressing CO2 intensive sectors, and non-intensive CO2 sectors with low added value.
Evaluation of Physicochemical Properties and Sensory Qualities of Pasta Enriched with Freeze-Dried Sweet Whey
Authors: Boudalia S. , Gueroui Y. , Boumaza B. , Bousbia A. , Benada M. , Leksir C. , Mezroua E.Y. , Zemmouchi K.R. , Saoud A. , Chemmam M. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
For food industry, the production of functional pasta from non-conventional raw materials represents a challenge. This study aims to evaluate the potential of animal proteins of freeze-dried whey as a component for pasta production and its effect on the pasta qualities and consumer acceptance. Sweet whey was freeze-dried, then directly incorporated to pasta at a 20% level. Two pasta types (pasta non-enriched vs. enriched with whey powder) were manufactured following a small-scale pilot procedure, and then evaluated for their physicochemical and sensory qualities. Results of all analyses (whey, semolina and pasta) met the standards according to international legislation; however, the characteristics of enriched pasta differed. Whey addition significantly increased ash, proteins content, optimal cooking time and water uptake (P < 0.05); it significantly decreased moisture levels, colour parameters (CIE system: a* redness, b* yellowness) and the swelling index (P < 0.05). Sensory analysis revealed that overall sensory and product quality of enriched pasta was not affected by whey fortification and it was found acceptable by panelists. This study points out that whey powder could be used for the functional pasta production to increase proteins levels.
Does Private High School Attendance Affect Preferred University Track Choice? A Research Perspective
Authors: Marilou Ioakimidis , Emmanouil Choustoulakis , George Papakonstantinou 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Studies in different countries comparing the quality of education in private and public schools have used a variety of measurement methods to determine educational quality and findings have been mixed. For the unique situation of Greece, the variable of student admission to the Greek university system, depending on whether the student’s secondary education was in the public or the private system, provides an apt outcome variable to measure relative educational quality. We provide estimates of the effect of private secondary schooling in Greece on students’ admission to their preferred university academic department, using data from nationwide surveys conducted identically in 2000 and 2015. This repeated-measures research design allowed us to compare the same set of factors between the two administrations, thus examining for the stability or change of their contribution over time. Our final sample consisted of 4740 secondary school students. We used a weighted questionnaire to investigate the effect of private schooling on the trajectory to university. In our empirical model, a multinomial logistic regression was performed to classify subjects based on values of a set of predictor variables. Results indicate that attending a private high school offers secondary education students a significantly higher probability of stepping successfully into an academic department of higher relevance to their academic preferences and future career expectations. We also find that private high school education significantly minimizes the efforts required for a student to enter a desirable university department. Positive correlations between the attendance of private high school education and demographic attributes of both students and their families were also found. Research and policy recommendations are included.
Comparing the Impact of the Net Income Versus the Comprehensive Income Over the Share Price for Companies Listed on the Bucharest Stock Exchange
Authors: Ioana Pop 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
As a consequence of adopting the IFRS in Romania, starting with 2012, for companies whose securities are admitted for trading on a regulated market, financial reporting demarches include ascertaining the comprehensive income in addition to the net income. The present paper aims at investigating how the share price evolves considering the level of the comprehensive income as compared to the reported net income, in a multiannual empirical study implying panel data analysis through Pooled OLS, Fixed Effects and Random Effects models processed through EViews. Furthermore, the informational and decisional utility of the two main forms of disclosed accounting results (the net income and of the comprehensive income) is examined through a sample of 57 notable companies listed on the Bucharest Stock Exchange. Admittedly, the empirical study findings substantiate the fact that both results categories are significantly associated with the evolution of the share price, rendering a heightened value relevance for the Romanian capital market investors. Moreover, the identified results indicate that from an investor standpoint, the comprehensive income does not bear a greater significance than the net income, the two having comparable impacts over the share price.
Effects of COVID-19 on Business Models in Romania and the Netherlands, A Digitalization Perspective
Authors: Thierry Tartarin , Mihai Țichindelean , Timber Haaker 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The research objective is to study how Romanian and Dutch organizations’ business models have changed under COVID-19 conditions. The role of digitalization in adapting business models and business practices is studied. The theoretical background reviews literature about business models and their dimensions. Literature review investigated digitalization in Romanian and Dutch organizations.
Research questions were:
To what extent do Romanian and Dutch organizations use:
• more digital methods in their offer to their clients now than before the crisis?
• more digital methods in their business processes now than before the crisis?
• more digital methods in communicating with their clients now than before the crisis?
To what extent are there any significant differences between Romanian and Dutch organizations regarding the use of digital methods?
Using qualitative and quantitative methods, conclusions show that Romanian and Dutch organizations adapted their business models to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis by applying digitalization in their value creation and value delivery using different digital methods. The frequency and choice of specific digital methods are in line with digitalization levels of Romania and The Netherlands as per the DESI index. In both countries, digitalization helped business models resilience although the level of digitalization in the organization’s country were significantly different.
Financial Analysis of Major Retail Chains within a Turbulent Economic Environment
Authors: Nikolaos Zisoudis , Christos Karelakis , George Theodossiou , Efstratios Loizou 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The Greek economic activity has been declined dramatically in recent years as many sectors of the economy that cannot cope with the new state brought about by the economic crisis. An economic crisis can be described as the phenomenon when an economy is characterized by a continuous and noticeable decline in its economic activity. As an economic activity, we are referring to all the macroeconomic dimensions of the economy, such as employment, the national product, prices, investments, etc. The downturn in the supermarket sector, which is attributed to the country’s financial situation, has led to a decline in the household disposable income. The present study was carried out at the time of the economic crisis, concerning a productive sector of the Greek economy, where millions of euros are exchanged hands. The objective of the study was to explore the impacts of the economic crisis on the sector by using a series of financial indicators. The results point to significant effects on the efficiency and earnings of the major actors of the sector.