Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Localizing wild chimpanzees with passive acoustics

Abstract Localizing wildlife contributes in multiple ways to species conservation. Data on animal locations can reveal elements of social behavior, habitat use, population dynamics, and be useful in calculating population density. Acoustic localization systems (ALS) are a non‐invasive method widely used in the marine sciences but not well established and rarely employed for terrestrial species. We deployed an acoustic array in a mountainous environment with heterogeneous vegetation, comprised of four custom‐built GPS synchronized acoustic sensors at about 500 m intervals in Issa Valley, western Tanzania, covering an area of nearly 2 km2. Our goal was to assess the precision and error of the estimated locations by conducting playback tests, but also by comparing the estimated locations of wild chimpanzee calls with their true locations obtained in parallel during follows of individual chimpanzees. We assessed the factors influencing localization error, such as wind speed and temperature, which fluctuate during the day and are known to affect sound transmission. We localized 282 playback sounds and found that the mean localization error was 27 ± 21.8 m. Localization was less prone to error and more precise during early mornings (6:30 h) compared to other periods. We further localized 22 wild chimpanzee loud calls within 52 m of the location of a researcher closely following the calling individuals. We demonstrate that acoustic localization is a powerful tool for chimpanzee monitoring, with multiple behavioral and conservation applications. Its applicability in studying social dynamics and revealing density estimation among many others, especially but not exclusively for loud calling species, provides an efficient way of monitoring populations and informing conservation plans to mediate species loss.
4‐allylanisole as a lure adjuvant for Dendroctonus frontalis (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) and two associated beetles

The southern pine beetle, Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmermann (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae), is a major pine tree killer in North and Central America. In the southeastern USA, responses by D. frontalis to its aggregation pheromone can be substantially increased by at least three host odours: the monoterpenes alpha‐ and beta‐pinene, and the phenylpropanoid 4‐allylanisole. We executed three trapping experiments to assess the influence of 4‐allylanisole release rate on aggregation behaviour of D. frontalis and to evaluate the compound as an adjuvant for the operational monitoring lure for D. frontalis. Addition of devices releasing 4‐allylanisole at any of three rates (4.8, 48, and 500 mg/day measured at mean 21°C) increased D. frontalis attraction to a pheromone lure, both in the presence and in the absence of an alpha‐pinene lure. The increase was 5‐ to 50‐fold with a positive dose response up to the highest tested release rate of 4‐allylanisole. Attraction of an associate, the black turpentine beetle, Dendroctonus terebrans (Olivier), and a major D. frontalis predator, Thanasimus dubius (F.) (Coleoptera: Cleridae), was also significantly increased by 4‐allylanisole. A device releasing 4‐allylanisole at 0.05 g/day (at mean 23°C) increased attraction of D. frontalis to the current operational monitoring lure (which uses alpha‐ and beta‐pinene as the host odour component) approximately 4‐fold, but it did not increase attraction to a lure with turpentine as the host odour component (used in a former operational monitoring lure). Additionally, we observed none of the attraction‐inhibiting effects that were previously reported for 4‐allylanisole with D. frontalis. It is possible that the addition of 4‐allylanisole to the D. frontalis lure might allow detection of beetles at lower population densities and, if so, aid in earlier detection of populations invading the northeastern USA in response to climate change. This possibility should receive further investigation.
Novel Inhibitor for Downstream Targeting of Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling to Suppress Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition and Cell Migration

Cancer metastasis accounts for most of the mortality associated with solid tumors. However, antimetastatic drugs are not available on the market. One of the important biological events leading to metastasis is the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) induced by cytokines, namely transforming growth-factor-β (TGF-β). Although several classes of inhibitors targeting TGF-β and its receptor have been developed, they have shown profound clinical side effects. We focused on our synthetic compound, HPH-15, which has shown anti-fibrotic activity via the blockade of the TGF-β Smad-dependent signaling. In this study, 10 μM of HPH-15 was found to exhibit anti-cell migration and anti-EMT activities in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Although higher concentrations are required, the anti-EMT activity of HPH-15 has also been observed in 3D-cultured NSCLC cells. A mechanistic study showed that HPH-15 inhibits downstream TGF-β signaling. This downstream inhibition blocks the expression of cytokines such as TGF-β, leading to the next cycle of Smad-dependent and -independent signaling. HPH-15 has AMPK-activation activity, but a relationship between AMPK activation and anti-EMT/cell migration was not observed. Taken together, HPH-15 may lead to the development of antimetastatic drugs with a new mechanism of action.
Evolving human resource management processes and interventions as the new paradigms shaped by entrepreneurship, knowledge management, social network analysis’

At the core of human resource management (HRM) is the way ‘’inter-relationship among the stakeholders in an organisation is managed’’, ‘’objective criteria are applied to goal-setting processes’’ and how ‘’HRM contributes to the creation of tangible value in the form of knowledge-based outputs. ’’ Hence, the process of knowledge management of storing and sharing in regard to its processes, techniques and operations is linked to HRM practices of effective management of this inter-relationship. The research enquires into how human resource development focuses on building the entrepreneurial resilience, a key ability of entrepreneurs to overcome challenges and adapt to uncertainties, particularly during this era of Covid-19 pandemic. The efforts of organisational leadership, which needs to appropriate these inter-relationships to a social context either India or Bangladesh, always can be aided by a host of social network theories. Within remit of this discourse, the research would like to pursue the questions such as how the role of gender in the economic development process has been increasingly recognized as crucial, both in terms of potential for success and in the nature of the impact of particular development strategies and programs. Addressing these questions, thus, can help us to arrive at the possible HR interventions in this regard. The direction of the current research emerges from the interpretation of the variants such as knowledge workers, knowledge management templates and tools, expected gender roles of social actors, resource allocation, etc. The research proceeds to enquire how these variants are explained by these social network theories, their limitations and if some of these need to be repurposed in the view of emerging challenges posed by knowledge workers and their belonging industries.
Intradural Extramedullary Concurrent Schwannoma and Meningothelial Hyperplasia at C2-C3 Cervical Vertebrae: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Concomitant schwannomas and benign meningothelial proliferations, including meningothelial hyperplasia or meningioma, rarely occur at the same location outside the setting of neurofibromatosis. Herein, we present a rare case of concurrent schwannoma and benign meningothelial hyperplasia concomitantly occurring in the cervical spine of a 69-year-old male patient with no history of any genetic disorder.
A Study of ERISA's Impact on Private Retirement

Time series intervention models are constructed to assess ERISA's impact on the number of private retirement plans. Four growth indicator variables (number of pension plan terminations, profit-sharing plan terminations, pension plan qualifications, and profit-sharing plan qualifications) are analyzed and ERISA's short-term, long-term and differential effects on these four variables are discussed. The empirical analysis supports three major conclusions. First, the uncertainty created by the more rigorous regulatory mandate caused a substantial and immediate short-term adverse impact on private retirement plan growth; it resulted in large temporary increases in the number of plan terminations, and large reductions in the number of new plan formations. Second, ERISA's short-term impact on the number of pension plan formations was larger than its impact on the formation of profit-sharing plans. This finding provides some support for the premise that ERISA's regulations discriminate against defined benefit pension plans. Third, in addition to its very substantial short-term impact, ERISA's more stringent regulations, which disallow marginally beneficial plans, also caused a significant long-term reduction in the level of new plan qualifications.
Environmental Monitoring for Enteroviruses in Maputo, Mozambique—2018

Due to the possibility of wild poliovirus importation from endemic regions and the high circulation of vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 in the African region, Mozambique implemented a surveillance program to monitor the circulation of enteroviruses in the environment. From January to November 2018, a period that immediately preceded the cVDPV outbreak in Africa, 63 wastewater samples were collected from different areas in Maputo city. A total of 25 samples (39.7%) were positive based on cell culture isolation. Non-polio enteroviruses were found in 24 samples (24/25; 96%), whereas 1 Sabin-related poliovirus was isolated. Neither wild nor vaccine-derived poliovirus was detected. High circulation of EVB species was detected. Environmental surveillance in the One Health approach, if effectively applied as support to acute flaccid paralysis, can be a powerful aid to the public health system to monitor poliovirus besides non-polio enteroviruses in polio-free areas.
Exposure to melamine and its derivatives and aromatic amines among pregnant women in the United States: The ECHO program.

BACKGROUND Melamine, melamine derivatives, and aromatic amines are nitrogen-containing compounds with known toxicity and widespread commercial uses. Nevertheless, biomonitoring of these chemicals is lacking, particularly during pregnancy, a period of increased susceptibility to adverse health effects. OBJECTIVES We aimed to measure melamine, melamine derivatives, and aromatic amine exposure in pregnant women across the United States (U.S.) and evaluate associations with participant and urine sample collection characteristics. METHODS We measured 43 analytes, representing 45 chemicals (i.e., melamine, three melamine derivatives, and 41 aromatic amines), in urine from pregnant women in nine diverse ECHO cohorts during 2008-2020 (N = 171). To assess relations with participant and urine sample collection characteristics, we used generalized estimating equations to estimate prevalence ratios (PRs) for analytes dichotomized at the detection limit, % differences (%Δ) for continuous analytes, and 95% confidence intervals. Multivariable models included age, race/ethnicity, marital status, urinary cotinine, and year of sample collection. RESULTS Twelve chemicals were detected in >60% of samples, with near ubiquitous detection of cyanuric acid, melamine, aniline, 4,4'-methylenedianiline, and a composite of o-toluidine and m-toluidine (99-100%). In multivariable adjusted models, most chemicals were associated with higher exposures among Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black participants. For example, concentrations of 3,4-dichloroaniline were higher among Hispanic (%Δ: +149, 95% CI: +17, +431) and non-Hispanic Black (%Δ: +136, 95% CI: +35, +311) women compared with non-Hispanic White women. We observed similar results for ammelide, o-/m-toluidine, 4,4'-methylenedianiline, and 4-chloroaniline. Most chemicals were positively associated with urinary cotinine, with strongest associations observed for o-/m-toluidine (%Δ: +23; 95% CI: +16, +31) and 3,4-dichloroaniline (%Δ: +25; 95% CI: +17, +33). Some chemicals exhibited annual trends (e.g., %Δ in melamine per year: -11; 95% CI: -19, -1) or time of day, seasonal, and geographic variability. DISCUSSION Exposure to melamine, cyanuric acid, and some aromatic amines was ubiquitous in this first investigation of these analytes in pregnant women. Future research should expand biomonitoring, identify sources of exposure disparities by race/ethnicity, and evaluate potential adverse health effects.
Speed control strategy of dual flexible servo system considering time‐varying parameters for flexible manipulator with an axially translating arm

Many factors lead to fluctuations of output speed in the motor side during the movement processes in a flexible manipulator with an axially translating arm. These factors include the time‐varying characteristics of manipulator parameters, external disturbance, and flexibility in the manipulator. The vibration of flexible manipulators is strengthened by fluctuations of output speed, which seriously affects the motion accuracy. Therefore, a variable parameters proportional–integral (PI) control strategy based on disturbance observer is adopted to reduce fluctuations of output speed in a dual flexible servo system. First, the dynamic model of the dual flexible servo system is established by the assumed mode method. Then, the variable parameters PI control strategy is applied to the servo system, and the controller parameters in different conditions are selected by pole placement strategies. Finally, numerical simulations and control experiments of the servo system are carried out. The results show that the control strategy using the variable parameters and disturbance observer could reduce fluctuations of output speed and improve the motion accuracy of flexible manipulators.
MarvelD3 Is Upregulated in Ulcerative Colitis and Has Attenuating Effects during Colitis Indirectly Stabilizing the Intestinal Barrier

In inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the impaired intestinal barrier is mainly characterized by changes in tight junction protein expression. The functional role of the tight junction-associated MARVEL protein MARVELD3 (MD3) in IBD is yet unknown. (i) In colon biopsies from IBD patients we analyzed MD3 expression and (ii) in human colon HT-29/B6 cells we studied the signaling pathways of different IBD-relevant cytokines. (iii) We generated a mouse model with intestinal overexpression of MD3 and investigated functional effects of MD3 upregulation. Colitis, graded by the disease activity index, was induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) and the intestinal barrier was characterized electrophysiologically. MD3 was upregulated in human ulcerative colitis and MD3 expression could be increased in HT-29/B6 cells by IL-13 via the IL13Rα1/STAT pathway. In mice DSS colitis, MD3 overexpression had an ameliorating, protective effect. It was not based on direct enhancement of paracellular barrier properties, but rather on regulatory mechanisms not solved yet in detail. However, as MD3 is involved in regulatory functions such as proliferation and cell survival, we conclude that the protective effects are hardly targeting the intestinal barrier directly but are based on regulatory processes supporting stabilization of the intestinal barrier.
MEMS Demodulator Based on Electrostatic Actuator

This thesis provides analysis and modeling for one of the Micro-Eletro-Mechanical System (MEMS) electrostatic actuator that consists of a micro-plate at the end of a cantilever beam, and introduces different type of MEMS electrostatic actuator; a paddle structure, which is a micro-plate suspended by two cantilever beams on each side. An electrode plate is placed right under the micro-plate to apply an actuation voltage. A step-by-step analysis explains how to obtain each parameter used for the simulations. Static and dynamic models are presented with governing equations for the paddle-shaped MEMS electrostatic actuator. The key findings are that the proposed electrostatic MEMS demodulator architecture taking advantage of the resonance circuit principle not only theoretically work in analytical model, and numerical simulations, but also work in real life. For the Amplitude Modulations (AM) demodulations, simulations with various damping factors are provided, and experimental data are discussed. By measuring the displacement using the phase detector circuit and vibrometer, as a proof of versatility of the demodulation architecture based on the MEMS electrostatic actuator, the results from Frequency Modulations (FM), Amplitude Shift Keying (ASK), and Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) demodulation scheme experiments that are conducted with the physically identical dimensions and configuration are provided. The future plan for further analysis and experiment is discussed at the end.
A mean-field stochastic linear-quadratic optimal control problem with jumps under partial information

In this article, the stochastic linear-quadratic optimal control problem of mean-field type with jumps under partial information is discussed. The state equation contains affine terms is a SDE with jumps driven by a multidimensional Brownian motion and a Poisson random martingale measure, the cost function containing cross terms is quadratic, in addition, the state and the control as well as their expectations are contained both in the state equation and the cost functional. Firstly, we prove the existence and uniqueness of the optimal control, and by using Pontryagin’s maximum principle we get the dual characterization of optimal control; Secondly, by introducing the adjoint processes of the state equation, establishing a stochastic Hamiltonian system and using decoupling technology, we deduce two integro-differential Riccati equations and get the feedback representation of the optimal control under partial information; Thirdly, the existence and uniqueness of the solutions of the two associated integro-differential Riccati equations are proved; Finally, we discuss a special case, and by means of filtering technique, establish the corresponding the filtering state feedback representation of the optimal control.
Green synthesis of Zn/Cu oxide nanoparticles by Vernicia fordii seed extract: their photocatalytic activity toward industrial dye degradation and their biological activity

Abstract Green synthesized Zinc oxide (ZnO NPs) and copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) via the aqueous essence of Vernicia fordii seed waste by solution combustion technique. UV–Visible, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy, and Transmission electron microscopy confirm the microstructure. X-ray diffraction fortified the wurtzite hexagonal crystalline (22 nm) and monoclinic (24 nm) phase of ZnO and CuO NPs. Energy Dispersive X-Ray analysis strengthened peaks for elemental copper, zinc, and oxygen without any peaks of impurities. Both the NPs offered an effective degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under visible-light illumination (85% in 10 h and more than 99% in 24 h). The catalyst recycling proved its consistent reusability even after 03 consecutive employment. The decoloration of the dye reached 98–90% suggesting its reusability. Additionally, both lead the efficient antifungal activity against C. albicans fungi and antibacterial potential against Bacillus cereus and larvicidal activity against T. confusum larvae in 24 h. Graphical Abstract
The Cognitive Sequelae of Transient Ischemic Attacks—Recent Insights and Future Directions

There is now considerable evidence that Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) carries important sequelae beyond the risk of recurrent stroke, particularly with respect to peri-event and post-event cognitive dysfunction and subsequent cognitive decline. The occurrence of a TIA could provide an important window in understanding the relationship of early mixed vascular-neurodegenerative cognitive decline, and by virtue of their clinical relevance as a “warning” event, TIAs could also furnish the opportunity to act preventatively not only for stroke prevention but also for dementia prevention. In this review, we discuss the current state of the literature regarding the cognitive sequelae associated with TIA, reviewing important challenges in the field. In particular, we discuss definitional and methodological challenges in the study of TIA-related cognitive impairment, confounding factors in the cognitive evaluation of these patients, and provide an overview of the evidence on both transient and long-term cognitive impairment after TIA. We compile recent insights from clinical studies regarding the predictors and mediators of cognitive decline in these patients and highlight important future directions for work in this area.
Review on maintenance of photovoltaic systems based on deep learning and internet of things

Many solar plants have been installed globally, and they must be continuously protected and supervised to ensure their safety and reliability. Photovoltaic plants are susceptible to many defects and failures, and fault detection technology is used to protect and isolate them. Despite numerous inter-national standards, invisible photovoltaic defects continue to cause major is-sues. As a result, smart technologies like AI (Artificial Intelligence) and IoT are being developed for remote sensing, problem detection, and diagnosis of photovoltaic systems. Solar plants generate not only green electricity but also a lot of data, such as power output. With AI, a clear picture of electricity yields should be possible. The output of entire solar parks could be monitored and analyzed. The AI could also detect malfunctions within a solar park, according to the research. This would speed up and simplify maintenance work. Deep learning (DL) and IoT applications for photovoltaic plants are discussed. The most advanced techniques, such as DL, are discussed in terms of precision and accuracy. Incorporating DL and IoT approaches for fault detection and diagnosis into simple hardware, such as low-cost chips, maybe cost-effective and technically feasible for photovoltaic facilities located in remote locations.
Abnormal Ship Behavior Detection Based on AIS Data

With the development of navigation globalization and ship dehumanization, the contradiction between the increasing demand for ship behavior supervision and limited traffic service resources is obvious, and the frequent occurrence of accidents at sea is a problem. The monitoring of abnormal ship behavior is an important link in maritime transportation. With the popularization of the automatic identification system and increasing research in the maritime field, the AIS is widely used in the management of ship static information and the real-time sharing of dynamic information. The generated moving ship trajectory data provide a new opportunity for research into abnormal ship behavior and its detection. In light of the current situation of abnormal ship behavior research, we detected abnormal ship behavior from the point of view of spatial information and thematic information based on moving ship trajectory data. Therefore, this study first modeled the cognition of abnormal ship behavior. Then, based on the cognition of group ship behavior rules, we used a method based on graph structure learning to mine maritime routes from the perspective of ship spatial information. Next, we used Rayda’s criterion to detect the anomalous behavior of ships in space. Then, based on the isolation forest algorithm, we detected and described the abnormal behavior shown by ship thematic information. The experimental results show that the framework proposed in this paper can effectively detect the abnormal behavior of ships.