Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Bioprospecting the American Alligator Peptidome for antiviral peptides against Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus

The innate immune protection provided by cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) has been shown to extend to antiviral activity, with putative mechanisms of action including direct interaction with host cells or pathogen membranes. The lack of therapeutics available for the treatment of viruses such as Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) underscores the urgency of novel strategies for antiviral discovery. American alligator plasma has been shown to exhibit strong in vitro antibacterial activity, and functionalized hydrogel particles have been successfully employed for the identification of specific CAMPs from alligator plasma. Here, a novel bait strategy in which particles were encapsulated in membranes from either healthy or VEEV‐infected cells was implemented to identify peptides preferentially targeting infected cells for subsequent evaluation of antiviral activity. Statistical analysis of peptide identification results was used to select five candidate peptides for testing, of which one exhibited a dose‐dependent inhibition of VEEV and also significantly inhibited infectious titers. Results suggest our bioprospecting strategy provides a versatile platform that may be adapted for antiviral peptide identification from complex biological samples.
Particle Motion in CFB Cyclones as Observed By Positron Emission Particle Tracking

Circulating fluidized bed (CFB) cyclones operate at high solids loadings. The paper presents, for the first time, particle trajectories within a cyclone obtained by positron emission particle tracking (PEPT), as a function of the solids loading (Cs). The pressure drop across a cyclone is a strong function of the solids loading. The objective of this work was to explain this behavior by direct observation of the particle movement. Cyclones normally operate in a stable particle movement mode, always with a spiral motion in the cylindrical part of the cyclone, followed by either a continued spiral in the cone (at low Cs) or by a much denser solids flow near the cone wall at higher Cs values. Data are used to obtain the tangential and axial velocity components of a tracer particle, the residence time of the particles in the cyclone, the thickness of the boundary layer in the cylindrical section of the cyclone, and the thickness of the dense wall layer in the conical section. This downward moving layer reduces.
The effective viscosity of a channel-type porous medium

An expression for the effective viscosity (μe) of a homogeneous channel-type porous medium has been derived by matching the Brinkman solution for the macroscopic flow with the volume average of the corresponding Stokes solution for the microscopic flow. In a least-squares error sense, the optimal value for μe is equal to μ(ϵ−3∕7)∕2 for ϵ⩾3∕7 and 0 for ϵ<3∕7, where ϵ is the porosity and μ is the fluid viscosity. Thus, μe<μ for all ϵ. For μe=0, the Brinkman equation reduces to Darcy’s law.
Endobronchial removal of the peripherally located foreign body with the ultrathin bronchoscopy and ultrathin cryoprobe guided by a manual navigating method: A case report

Rational: The bronchoscope is a preferential method used to remove airway foreign bodies, but for those located in the distal lumen of bronchus with long-time retention, how to remove them remains an intractable problem. Patient concerns: A 57-year-old male presented with 2-week history of intermittent hemoptysis. Chest CT upon admission revealed a high-density opacity incarcerated in the distal basal segment of the left lower lobe, along with obstructive pneumonia. Diagnoses: The patient was diagnosed as foreign body aspiration. Interventions: We firstly used a manual navigating method to draw a bronchoscopic map according to the thin-section CT. Then we adopted ultrathin bronchoscope (UTB) to remove the peripherally located foreign body. Outcomes: UTB successfully found the foreign body incarcerated in LB10ciiβ under the guidance of manual navigation, but it was too tender to be extracted completely by forceps, and it was even pushed further away. Then 1.1 mm ultrathin cryoprobe was used, with an activation time of 4 seconds, the chili was frozen and completely removed. Lessons: This first combined application of manual navigating method, UTB and ultrathin cryoprobe, successfully extracted foreign bodies lodged in the distal airways and thus avoided thoracic surgery.
Evolution of Solar Magnetic Arcades. I. Ideal MHD Evolution Under Footpoint Shearing

The ideal MHD evolution of a single magnetic arcade undergoing footpoint motions in a two-dimensional Cartesian geometry is investigated using numerical simulation. Also, force-free states of the same arcade are constructed with the use of a magnetofrictional method, which is formulated differently from those used in previous studies. In MHD simulations, no instability or nonequilibrium is found to the value of shear 100 times as large as the footpoint separation in the potential field. The evolutionary sequence is composed of three distinct phases. The first phase is characterized by the increase of the toroidal field strength and the second phase by a sort of self-similar expansion. In the third phase, the formation and growth of a central current layer are conspicuous. With increasing shear, the maximum current density increases, the width of the current layer decreases, and the feet of the current layer, which bifurcates above the bottom boundary, get closer to each other. The field lines in the current layer tend to thread the bottom boundary nearly horizontally for a large shear. From our results, it is inductively inferred that the magnetic arcade in a two-dimensional Cartesian geometry approaches an open field as the shear increases indefinitely.
Abundant solutions of Wick-type stochastic fractional 2D KdV equations

A modified fractional sub-equation method is applied to Wick-type stochastic fractional two-dimensional (2D) KdV equations. With the help of a Hermit transform, we obtain a new set of exact stochastic solutions to Wick-type stochastic fractional 2D KdV equations in the white noise space. These solutions include exponential decay wave solutions, soliton wave solutions, and periodic wave solutions. Two examples are explicitly given to illustrate our approach.
Preoperative frailty screening, assessment and management

Purpose of review To highlight the importance of frailty assessment in thoracic surgery patients. Recent findings Frailty results from an accelerated loss of functional reserve associated with ageing and leads to increased vulnerability following surgery. It is a complex and multidimensional syndrome involving physiological and psychosocial systems. Frailty is a separate entity from comorbidities and disabilities. Frailty is associated with an increased risk of complications and a higher mortality rate after thoracic surgery. Patients can easily be screened for frailty and frail patients can benefit from further assessment of all areas of frailty secondarily. Prehabilitation and rehabilitation can help limit frailty-related complications after thoracic surgery. Summary Frailty should be part of the routine preoperative evaluation for thoracic surgery. Frailty must be considered in assessing eligibility for surgery and in planning prehabilitation and rehabilitation if necessary.
Running Away from the War in Ukraine: The Impact on Mental Health of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Refugees in Transit in Poland

A growing body of research highlights how communities traumatized by conflict and displacement suffer from long-term mental and psychosocial illnesses. The Russian army’s attack on Ukraine has resulted in an estimated 10 million people being internally or externally displaced from Ukraine, of whom more than 3.8 million have left Ukraine to seek refuge elsewhere in Europe. Soleterre has decided to launch an intervention to provide psychological support to Ukrainian refugees and IDPs, aimed at containing war trauma, assessing the severity of symptoms, and enabling those affected to receive psychological support. The intervention model envisioned the administration of an intake form to provide a rapid collection of qualitative and quantitative information for those arriving in Poland or Lviv from Ukraine. Our results showed how most of the samples reported high or very high levels of anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Moreover, results highlighted how being close to families or being able to keep in touch with them work as a protective factor in enhancing resilience, as well as a support network. These findings underscored the importance of re-thinking our perception of “family” in a broader sense, considering the new facets it can take on in post-conflict situations.
DNS of dispersed multiphase flows with heat transfer and rarefaction effects

We propose a method for DNS of particle motion in non-isothermal systems. The method uses a shared set of momentum and energy balance equations for the carrier- and the dispersed phases. Measures are taken to ensure that non-deformable entities (solid particles) behave like rigid bodies. Moreover, deformable entities (e.g. bubbles) as well as rarefaction effects can be accommodated. The predictions of the method agree well with the available data for isothermal solid particles motion in the presence of walls and other particles, natural convection around a stationary particle, solid particles motion accompanied with heat transfer effects and isothermal solid particles motion under rarefied conditions. The method is used to investigate the simultaneous effects of heat transfer and rarefaction on the motion of a solid catalyst particle in an enclosure, the interaction of a solid particle and a microbubble in a flotation cell and a case with more than 1000 particles.
The Novel Gallium Aminobisphenolate Initiator of the Ring-Opening Copolymerization of L-Lactide and ε-Caprolactone: A Computational Study

Density functional theory (DFT) simulations of ring-opening copolymerization of ε-caprolactone (CL) and L-lactide (LA) in presence of novel gallium complex on aminobis (phenolate) ligand are conducted. The initial steps of polymerization of CL and LA as well as the first steps of propagation which led to LGa-LA-LA-OMe, LGa-LA-CL-OMe, LGa-CL-LA-OMe, or LGa-CL-CL-OMe derivatives have been analyzed in detail. According to these data, the studied catalyst is a rare example of a catalyst in which, during copolymerization, the polymerization of CL should proceed faster than LA. Thus, we predict the formation of a mainly block copolymer poly(CL-block-LA) using this catalyst.
Uniform acceleration expansions for Markov chains with time-varying rates

We study uniform acceleration (UA) expansions of (cid:12)nite-state con- tinuous-time Markov chains with time-varying transition rates. The UA expansions can be used to justify, evaluate and re(cid:12)ne the pointwise sta- tionary approximation, which is the steady-state distribution associated with the time-dependent generator at the time of interest. We obtain UA approximations from these UA asymptotic expansions. We derive a time-varying analog to the uniformization representation of transition proba- bilities for chains with constant transition rates, and apply it to establish asymptotic results related to the UA asymptotic expansion. These asymp- totic results can serve as appropriate time-varying analogs to the notions of stationary distributions and limiting distributions. We illustrate the UA approximations by doing a numerical example for the time-varying Erlang loss model.
Distortion Representation of Forecast Errors

Abstract Forecast error is decomposed into three components, termed displacement error, amplitude error, mid residual error, respectively. Displacement error measures how much of the forecast error can be accounted for by moving the forecast to best fit the analysis. Amplitude error measures how much of the forecast error can be accounted for by changing the amplitude of the displaced forecast to best fit the analysis. The combination of a displacement and an amplification is called a distortion. The part of the forecast error unaccounted for by the distortion is called the residual error. The distortion must be large scale, in line with the basic premise that forecast errors are best described by reference to large-scale meteorological features. A general mathematical formalism for defining distortions and decomposing forecast errors into distortion and residual errors is formulated. The distortion representation of forecast errors should prove useful for describing forecast skill and for representing th.
Correlation effects in heavy multi-electron ions represented by 4-4 transitions in the Zn-like isoelectronic sequence

A model potential relativistic method is used to calculate the energies of the lower levels with configurations 4s4p, 4p2, 4s4d, 4p4d in the Zn I isoelectronic series for nuclear charges Z=36-50. The calculation is made in the first order of perturbation theory with the effective inclusion of higher corrections. The role of various correlation effects is evaluated: core polarisation due to outer electrons, superposition of configurations, mutual screening of the outer electrons. As a zeroth approximation the authors obtain the wavefunctions of the outer electron in the field of the core model potential; the model potential parameter being determined from the empirical energy levels of Cu-like ions. An extrapolation procedure for model potential parameters is used for the calculation of energy levels of Cu-like ions. Energy levels 4lj and 5lj of Cu-like ions for Z=36-60 are given with an accuracy of about 0.1%. The accuracy of the energies of Zn-like ions is within 1%.
‘The Best Job in the World’: Breadwinning and the Capture of Household Labor in Nineteenth and Early Twentieth-Century British Coalmining

This article explores the effects of gender inequality and women's disempowerment in the context of historical coalmining. Across the United States and Europe, ex-coalmining regions are characterized by significant deprivation. While there are many reasons for persistent problems, this study focuses on the restrictions imposed on women's involvement in economic life. Families in mining communities exemplified the male breadwinner structure, in which men's earnings supported wives and children who provided domestic services in return. Using evidence from Britain, this article exposes a different reality of household economics characterized by dominance and subordination: All family members were integrated into the coalmining production process and the creation of profit. Women's unpaid work did not simply provide domestic comfort; it transferred well-being from women and children to men and simultaneously contributed to the colliery companies’ profits. These findings revise accounts of mining families while explaining the intransigence of deprivation in ex-coalmining areas. HIGHLIGHTS Women's disempowerment in historical mining communities had adverse effects that persist today. Pit women's labor propped up profits and wages and discouraged infrastructure investment. Breadwinning secured increased leisure time and higher income for men not women. Hours and incomes of “double shift”” factory women compare favorably to pit women. Regeneration must confront the gendered identities embedded in ex-mining communities.
Earnings management and electoral cycle in Brazilian municipalities

The accruals basis of accounting is gradually being implemented in the Brazilian public sector, which has increased the use of estimates. Although the judgments’ main objective is to contribute to decision-making, they can also be used to manage perceptions on performance. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between the electoral cycle and earnings management practices in Brazilian municipalities. Tests based on frequency distribution were conducted, indicating a discontinuity around zero earnings and suggesting that municipalities with ‘small surpluses’ present higher levels of discretionary accruals. Finally, we gathered empirical evidence of an increase in the level of earnings management in the pre-electoral periods, which is mitigated in environments with strong political competition. The empirical findings indicate a correlation between earnings management practices and the electoral cycle. The study contributes to a growing literature about earnings management in the public sector, helping to identify circumstances that can lead to opportunistic behavior by public managers, especially in relation to elections.
3D INDOOR CORRIDOR MAPPING WITH CALIBRATED ROPS OF A MULTI-FISHEYE CAMERA-RIG

Abstract. We present a 3D indoor mapping simulation in the location with limitations to access (i.e., pipeline drainage, sewer, box girder, etc.) by utilising a multi-fisheye camera rig. This camera rig (i.e., Pilot One) offers a 360 Field of View (FoV) coverage that represents an efficient data acquisition solution. Particular attention is focused on camera calibration consists of Interior Orientation Parameters (IOPs) and Relative Orientation Parameters (ROPs) to generate an accurate 3D reconstruction result. An appropriate Self-Calibration Bundle Adjustment (SCBA) approach, assisted with Australis coded targets, is conducted to have stable pre-calibration parameters that can be applied in a 68 meters corridor study field. We performed forward and backward data acquisition with unstitched original images and stitched images separately in a straight line to simulate data acquisition for future applications. However, due to the camera model and uncalibrated images, there is a “banana effect” in the stitched image. Twenty scale bars are used in this study. To achieve the ideal position and orientation of the scale bars, we attempt to construct a number of scenarios. The objective of this simulation is to determine the minimum number of scale bars that can be applied to a corridor where is difficult to access. We try to set up without any Control Scale Bars (CSB) with 20 Check Scale Bars (CkSBs). Even though this trial only has a 3.8 cm CkSBs error, it produced a length estimation error of 2.3 m (i.e., 3.37% of 68.1m) when compared with Terrestrial Laser Scanning.
POTENTIAL OF CONSUMER-GRADE CAMERAS AND PHOTOGRAMMETRIC GUIDELINES FOR SUBSURFACE UTILITY MAPPING

Abstract. The poor documentation of subsurface utility data is a common problem in many cities, exposing field engineers to risks of utility strike. This paper investigates the use of consumer-grade cameras to improve operational efficiency on construction sites and explores different imaging networks to optimize photogrammetric processing for low-cost subsurface utility surveys. Results from the first part of the study demonstrated the potential of consumer-grade cameras as a photogrammetric utility data acquisition tool. However, statistical insights from the photogrammetric calibration show that caution needs to be taken about the camera types particularly for lens calibration. Results from the second part of the study were recommended as easy-to-understand guidelines for image acquisition at trenches and supported the planning of photogrammetric measurements in the field.
Atmospheric stability above 6-m Big Telescope Alt-Azimuthal site

The high-altitude distributions of the Richardson number above the 6-meters Big Telescope Alt-Azimuthal of SAO RAS for astronomical site characterization are study. The 1/Ri used as parameter for ranking sites in term regime of stability and relative probability of periods and regions of turbulence. The profiles of the gradients of the potential temperature and the wind speed up to height of 25km for each month of year are calculated. The data used from the ERA-Erratum reanalysis, which is widely acknowledged as being reliable.
Protective Biomolecular Mechanisms of Glutathione Sodium Salt in Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury (IRI) is responsible for adverse outcomes in patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI). Oxidative stress, resulting from the production of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and low availability of Glutathione (GSH), are the two main mediators of IRI. The effectiveness of exogenous antioxidant therapy in this scenario is still debated, since the encouraging results obtained in animal models have not been fully reproduced in clinical studies. In this review we focus on the role of GSH, specifically on the biomolecular mechanisms that preserve myocardial cells from damage due to reperfusion. In this regard, we provide an extensive discussion about GSH intrinsic antioxidant properties, its current applications in clinical practice, and the future perspectives.
Context-dependent variation in innovation as a function of urbanization in a songbird

Recent human-induced transformations to the environment are significantly impacting wild animal populations. Whereas some animals thrive due to these changes, others are being extinguished. Many studies have attempted to identify behavioural traits (e.g. personality, diet versatility, cognition) that allow some animals to succeed in human-dominated landscapes, but few have studied multiple traits or environmental contexts concurrently, despite the fact that different environments may require different types of behavioural performance. We presented house finches (Haemorhous mexicanus) captured from urban, suburban, and rural sites with two different environmental problems to solve (escaping from a confinement and finding food in multiple feeding structures) and measured the success and speed of solving the challenge as well as activity levels and stress behaviours of the birds. We found that urban birds were better at solving the escape challenge, but there was no difference in finding a hidden food source. In addition, we found that birds who solved the escape challenge were more active than those who did not solve this problem, although we observed no such behavioural difference in the food challenge. These results indicate that, because problem-solving challenges can vary across environments, certain types of innovation may be prioritized over others in urban-dwelling species.
Embedding Biomimetic Magnetic Nanoparticles Coupled with Peptide AS-48 into PLGA to Treat Intracellular Pathogens

Among the strategies employed to overcome the development of multidrug-resistant bacteria, directed chemotherapy combined with local therapies (e.g., magnetic hyperthermia) has gained great interest. A nano-assembly coupling the antimicrobial peptide AS-48 to biomimetic magnetic nanoparticles (AS-48-BMNPs) was demonstrated to have potent bactericidal effects on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria when the antimicrobial activity of the peptide was combined with magnetic hyperthermia. Nevertheless, intracellular pathogens remain challenging due to the difficulty of the drug reaching the bacterium. Thus, improving the cellular uptake of the nanocarrier is crucial for the success of the treatment. In the present study, we demonstrate the embedding cellular uptake of the original nano-assembly into THP-1, reducing the toxicity of AS-48 toward healthy THP-1 cells. We optimized the design of PLGA[AS-48-BMNPs] in terms of size, colloidal stability, and hyperthermia activity (either magnetic or photothermal). The stability of the nano-formulation at physiological pH values was evaluated by studying the AS-48 release at this pH value. The influence of pH and hyperthermia on the AS-48 release from the nano-formulation was also studied. These results show a slower AS-48 release from PLGA[AS-48-BMNPs] compared to previous nano-formulations, which could make this new nano-formulation suitable for longer extended treatments of intracellular pathogens. PLGA[AS-48-BMNPs] are internalized in THP-1 cells where AS-48 is liberated slowly, which may be useful to treat diseases and prevent infection caused by intracellular pathogens. The treatment will be more efficient combined with hyperthermia or photothermia.