Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
DermAI 1.0: A Robust, Generalized, and Novel Attention-Enabled Ensemble-Based Transfer Learning Paradigm for Multiclass Classification of Skin Lesion Images

Skin lesion classification plays a crucial role in dermatology, aiding in the early detection, diagnosis, and management of life-threatening malignant lesions. However, standalone transfer learning (TL) models failed to deliver optimal performance. In this study, we present an attention-enabled ensemble-based deep learning technique, a powerful, novel, and generalized method for extracting features for the classification of skin lesions. This technique holds significant promise in enhancing diagnostic accuracy by using seven pre-trained TL models for classification. Six ensemble-based DL (EBDL) models were created using stacking, softmax voting, and weighted average techniques. Furthermore, we investigated the attention mechanism as an effective paradigm and created seven attention-enabled transfer learning (aeTL) models before branching out to construct three attention-enabled ensemble-based DL (aeEBDL) models to create a reliable, adaptive, and generalized paradigm. The mean accuracy of the TL models is 95.30%, and the use of an ensemble-based paradigm increased it by 4.22%, to 99.52%. The aeTL models’ performance was superior to the TL models in accuracy by 3.01%, and aeEBDL models outperformed aeTL models by 1.29%. Statistical tests show significant p-value and Kappa coefficient along with a 99.6% reliability index for the aeEBDL models. The approach is highly effective and generalized for the classification of skin lesions.
Simulation of Vehicle Interaction Behavior in Merging Scenarios: A Deep Maximum Entropy-Inverse Reinforcement Learning Method Combined With Game Theory

Simulation testing based on virtual scenarios can improve the efficiency of safety testing for high-level autonomous vehicles (AVs). In most traffic scenarios, such as merging scenarios, the interactions between vehicles are a game process. Therefore, a critical factor is to accurately simulate the game and interaction processes between the background vehicle (BV) and AV in the test environment. With the increasing availability of natural driving data, a data-driven approach can be introduced to identify the underlying driving behavior patterns in actual driving data. Thus, this article proposes a data-driven method for modeling BV behavior for AV testing in virtual scenarios. The method describes the vehicle decision process in the merging scenario as a standard Markov decision process (MDP). Based on game theory, we considered the BV as a game subject to illustrate the vehicle interaction process. Furthermore, a deep maximum entropy-inverse reinforcement learning combined with the game matrix is proposed to identify the reward function that describes BV behavior. The obtained reward function is used to design a deep Q-network algorithm to simulate the behavior of BV. Finally, the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method are verified by comparing it with natural driving data. Moreover, we performed comparative tests with the other two baseline methods; the results show that the proposed method can accurately simulate the interaction behaviors between vehicles in the virtual scenarios.
Revealing Further Insights into Astringent Seeds of Chinese Fir by Integrated Metabolomic and Lipidomic Analyses

Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook. ) stands as one of the pivotal afforestation tree species and timber resources in southern China. Nevertheless, the occurrence of seed abortion and a notably high proportion of astringent seeds significantly curtail the yield and quality of elite seeds, resulting in substantial economic losses. The development of astringent seeds is accompanied by significant physiological and biochemical alterations. Here, the first combined lipidomic and metabolomic analysis was performed to gain a comprehensive understanding of astringent seed traits. A total of 744 metabolites and 616 lipids were detected, of which 489 differential metabolites and 101 differential lipids were identified. In astringent seeds, most flavonoids and tannins, as well as proline and γ-aminobutyric acid, were more accumulated, along with a notable decrease in lipid unsaturation, indicating oxidative stress in the cells of astringent seeds. Conversely, numerous elemental metabolites were less accumulated, including amino acids and their derivatives, saccharides and alcohols, organic acids and nucleotides and their derivatives. Meanwhile, most lipid subclasses, mainly associated with energy storage (triglyceride and diglyceride) and cell membrane composition (phosphatidic acid, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine), also exhibited significant reductions. These results reflected a disruption in the cellular system or the occurrence of cell death, causing a reduction in viable cells within astringent seeds. Furthermore, only one lipid subclass, sphingosine phosphate (SoP), was more accumulated in astringent seeds. Additionally, lower accumulation of indole-3-acetic acid and more accumulation of salicylic acid (SA) were also identified in astringent seeds. Both SA and SoP were closely associated with the promotion of programmed cell death in astringent seeds. Collectively, our study revealed significant abnormal changes in phytohormones, lipids and various metabolites in astringent seeds, allowing us to propose a model for the development of astringent seeds in Chinese fir based on existing research and our findings. This work enriches our comprehension of astringent seeds and presents valuable bioindicators for the identification of astringent seeds.
Tidal Modulation of Energy Dissipation Routes in the Gulf Stream

The Gulf Stream (GS) is a powerful ocean current that is instrumental in regulating the global climate. While a correct reproduction of GS dynamics is contingent on an appropriate representation of energy dissipation, the specific role of tides in dissipation pathways of the wind‐driven circulation is not well understood. Here, we present evidence, using high‐resolution ocean simulations (∼2 km grid spacing), that ocean tides, by generating internal gravity waves, increase the forward cascade of energy in the GS region. This effect is greatest in summer, when the intensity of internal tides increases. However, the dissipation route associated with the forward energy cascade remains an order of magnitude weaker than frictional dissipation near the surface and bottom boundaries.
Eriodictyol Alleviated LPS/D-GalN-Induced Acute Liver Injury by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Cell Apoptosis via PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway

Eriodictyol occurs naturally in a variety of fruits and vegetables, and has drawn significant attention for its potential health benefits. This study aims to look into the effects of eriodictyol on acute liver injury (ALI) induced by LPS/D-GalN and elucidate its potential molecular biological mechanisms. A total of 47 targets were predicted for the treatment of ALI with eriodictyol, and the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway played a key role in the anti-ALI processing of this drug. The in vivo experiment showed that eriodictyol can effectively reduce liver function-related biochemical indicators such as ALT, AST, and AKP. Eriodictyol can also up-regulate the levels of SOD and GSH, and inhibit the release of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Additionally, TUNEL staining, immunohistochemistry, and RT-PCR experiments showed that eriodictyol activated the PI3K/AKT pathway and decreased the expression of Bax, caspase3, and caspase8 while increasing the expression of Bcl-2 m-RNA. Finally, molecular docking experiments and molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stable binding between eriodictyol and PI3K, AKT molecules. This study showed that eriodictyol can activate the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway to alleviate ALI-related oxidative stress and apoptosis.
The Gwynns Falls Water Quality Management Plan - A Case Study

Parsons Brinckerhoff (PB) lead a team of water resource engineers and environmental scientists to develop a comprehensive water quality management plan for the Gwynns Falls Watershed. The headwaters of the 171 square kilometer (66 square mile) Gwynns Falls watershed begin in Baltimore County and drains through Baltimore City, into the Middle Branch of the Patapsco River and ultimately into the Chesapeake Bay. This project was a joint effort between Baltimore County Department of Environmental Protection and Resource Management (DEPRM) and Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) as a first inter-jurisdictional, regional cooperative restoration effort and initiative. The goals of the water quality management plan were: Identify and evaluate non-point source stormwater pollution and stream degradation; Determine management measures for the reduction of nonpoint source pollution and reestablishment of stream stability; and Provide a watershed restoration framework for Baltimore City and Baltimore County. One of the major plan components was the stream assessment. Field crews walked, collected data and photographed over 214 kilometers (133 miles) of stream within the Gwynns Falls. The streams were divided into approximately 900 individual reaches averaging 227 meters (750 linear feet) each. The large number of reaches and data to be collected presented a unique challenge for the assessment team. Other key assessment features include GIS data management; water quality modeling using EPA SWMM; stormwater assessment that included 48 stormwater management facilities and 82 storm drain outfalls; and a forest patch assessment. The results of the field assessments were used to develop cost estimates and rankings for more than 120 projects within the watershed. Each project was ranked based on cost, water quality and habitat benefit, land availability, public acceptance and educational opportunities. The final product is a list of management recommendations and a prioritized list of restoration projects for incorporation into the City and County’s capital improvement programs.
Welding engineering student learning outcomes in SMAW subjects: The effect on interest in entrepreneurship

This study aims to determine the influence of the learning outcomes of Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) subjects on the entrepreneurial interest of students at SMK Negeri 1 Udanawu, Blitar Regency. This research method is quantitative Research. Data collection techniques in this study used questionnaire and documentation methods. Data analysis uses validation tests, reliability tests, and simple linear regression analysis. The results showed that the F-count of 93.931 was greater than the F-table by 4.00. The significance of F by 0.002 was smaller than the α of 0.05, so the study results could be concluded that the variable learning outcomes of the SMAW subject had a significant effect on the variable of entrepreneurial interest of students. The results showed an R-value of 0.834, meaning that the relationship between the learning outcomes of Manual Arc Welding (SMAW) subjects and the entrepreneurial interest of students at SMK Negeri 1 Udanawu, Blitar Regency was very strong. This level of relationship can be categorized as a very strong relationship. This can be seen from the correlation value of 0.834 and the coefficient value between 0.800-1.000, which states the level of a very strong relationship. The value of the coefficient of determination is 71.5%, while the remaining 28.5% is influenced by other independent variables that were not studied in this study.
Down’s Syndrome Presented with Transmission of Maternal Translocation of 2; 21 Chromosomes. A Case Report

Background: Down's syndrome is a genetic condition marked by distinctive physical characteristics and some degree of cognitive impairment. Down's syndrome is mostly caused by trisomy of chromosome 21, while chromosome translocations are also frequent. Objective: To evaluate a rare 2;21 translocation in the proband's family that was associated with Down syndrome. Methods: Chromosomal analysis was carried out using the G-banding technique and traditional peripheral lymphocyte culture. Case: The proband was a 9 months baby boy of non-consanguineous parents. The doctors clinically diagnosed him as having Down's syndrome with all typical features. The proband was found to have trisomy 21 associated with a 2;21 translocation inherited from his mother because his mother has the same type of translocation without any phenotypic features. Maternal age at the time of the study was 35 years and first pregnancy ended in stillbirth at 26th weeks of gestation, the proband was the second issue. His maternal aunt and cousin brother both had the same type of translocation. In chromosomal analysis, the proband's father and uncle had normal genotypic distribution. The current example was a Down's syndrome case with one normal 21 no chromosome and one Reciprocal translocation t (2;21). Conclusion: The present case of Down’s syndrome occurs due to reciprocal translocation (2;21) probably has arisen by familial transmission. Once an imbalanced translocation in the fetus/child has been found, the prenatal cytogenetic analysis is critical for the next pregnancies. Bangladesh Medical Res Counc Bull 2023; 49(2): 143-147
Protein Disulfide Isomerase FgEps1 Is a Secreted Virulence Factor in Fusarium graminearum

Protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) is a member of the thioredoxin (Trx) superfamily with important functions in cellular stability, ion uptake, and cellular differentiation. While PDI has been extensively studied in humans and animals, its role in fungi remains relatively unknown. In this study, the biological functions of FgEps1, a disulfide bond isomerase in the fungal pathogen Fusarium graminearum, were investigated. It was found that FgEps1 mutation affected nutritional growth, asexual and sexual reproduction, and stress tolerance. Additionally, its deletion resulted in reduced pathogenicity and impaired DON toxin biosynthesis. The involvement of FgEps1 in host infection was also confirmed, as its expression was detected during the infection period. Further investigation using a yeast signal peptide secretion system and transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana showed that FgEps1 suppressed the immune response of plants and promoted infection. These findings suggest that virulence factor FgEps1 plays a crucial role in growth, development, virulence, secondary metabolism, and host infection in F. graminearum.
The biomechanical and biological effect of supercooling on cortical bone allograft

Background The need for a storage method capable of preserving the intrinsic properties of bones without using toxic substances has always been raised. Supercooling is a relatively recently introduced preservation method that meets this need. Supercooling refers to the phenomenon of liquid in which the temperature drops below its freezing point without solidifying or crystallizing. Objectives The purpose of this study was to identify the preservation efficiency and applicability of the supercooling technique as a cortical bone allograft storage modality. Methods The biomechanical effects of various storage methods, including deep freezing, cryopreservation, lyophilization, glycerol preservation, and supercooling, were evaluated with the three-point banding test, axial compression test, and electron microscopy. Additionally, cortical bone allografts were applied to the radial bone defect in New Zealand White rabbits to determine the biological effects. The degree of bone union was assessed with postoperative clinical signs, radiography, micro-computed tomography, and biomechanical analysis. Results The biomechanical properties of cortical bone grafts preserved using glycerol and supercooling method were found to be comparable to those of normal bone while also significantly stronger than deep-frozen, cryopreserved, and lyophilized bone grafts. Preclinical research performed in rabbit radial defect models revealed that supercooled and glycerol-preserved bone allografts exhibited significantly better bone union than other groups. Conclusions Considering the biomechanical and biological superiority, the supercooling technique could be one of the optimal preservation methods for cortical bone allografts. This study will form the basis for a novel application of supercooling as a bone material preservation technique.
gvSIG: soluciones de código abierto para las tecnologías espaciales

gvSIG es proyecto de desarrollo en software libre con licencia GPL (software libre). gvSIG surge como un cliente SIG destinado a satisfacer las necesidades de los usuarios de la Generalitat Valenciana, asegurando su funcionamiento multiplataforma, lo que influye en la eleccion de Java como lenguaje de desarrollo. Durante este proceso surgen las infraestructuras de datos espaciales (IDE), como nuevo paradigma a la hora de trabajar con informacion geografica.
Glacial‐Holocene carbonate dissolution and sea surface temperatures in the south China and Sulu seas

Sediment cores from the South China and Sulu seas have been used to study sea surface temperature changes in these two western equatorial Pacific basins during the last 25,000 years. Sea surface temperature (SST) estimates were derived using the planktonic foraminiferal transfer function FP-12E previously developed by Thompson (1981). The water depths for the cores range from 500 m to more than 4,000 m and thus provide a good opportunity to evaluate the effect of carbonate dissolution on quantitative paleotemperature estimates. The sea surface temperature time series from shallow, well-preserved cores indicate that average winter and summer temperatures during the Holocene were approximately 27°C and 29.5°C, respectively, for both the South China and Sulu seas. These estimates agree well with modern observations. During the last glacial maximum, summer sea surface temperatures were approximately 28.5°C in the South China Sea and 29°C in the Sulu Sea and thus were very similar to the Holocene. In contrast, glacial winter sea surface temperatures are estimated at approximately 21°C for the South China Sea and 24°C for the Sulu Sea. This decrease in glacial winter sea surface temperatures results in a much larger seasonality during the last glacial (5°-8°C) compared to the Holocene (2°C). These seasonal contrasts are much greater than those estimated by Climate: Long-Range Investigation, Mapping, and Prediction Members (1981) for this region of the western equatorial Pacific. Variation in intensity of the monsoon system and surface water exchange rates between these basins and the open ocean are the major factors controlling glacial-interglacial SST fluctuations in the South China and Sulu seas. One factor influencing the accuracy of the SST estimates is the quality of preservation of the planktonic foraminiferal assemblages. Our results demonstrate that depth-dependent increases in dissolution result in systematically cooler SST estimates. This is due to the fact that warm water planktonic foraminifera tend to be more solution susceptible, and as dissolution progresses, the assemblage becomes enriched in the more resistant, cooler water taxa. Since dissolution is more intense during interglacials than glacials in the Pacific, dissolution tends to reduce the amplitude of the glacial-interglacial temperature difference.
Application of a transient reduced gravity plume model to the Denmark Strait Overflow

A hydrostatic, reduced gravity, two-dimensional primitive equation numerical model for the simulation of transient bottom arrested gravity plumes was developed by adopting an algorithm from a wadden sea model (a model that simulates the wetting and drying of mud flats, sand banks, etc.) with a movable lateral boundary. The vertically integrated nonlinear rotational model accounts for the dissipation of momentum due to bottom friction and for the entrainment of water mass properties from a spatially structured but stagnant ambient water body. It predicts the temporal and spatial evolution of the flow field and the water mass modification within a gravity plume that descends on an arbitrary topography. Previous model investigations considered a laterally integrated streamtube, whereas our model resolves the plume horizontally. In the streamtube approach it was assumed that the plume descends in a stationary, almost geostrophic balance modified only by bottom drag and entrainment. The results of this model demonstrate that this balance may be disturbed whenever the plume encounters topographic disturbances, which, for the initial intruding phase in particular, accounts for its highly transient character. The model results are in good agreement with theoretical and laboratory investigations and with observations, as is demonstrated by some basic test experiments. An application to the overflow of dense water through the Denmark Strait is presented.
Variable Switching Frequency DPWM for ZVS in AC Motor Drive Fed by Two Paralleled SiC Inverters With Coupled Inductors

For ac motor drive system with silicon carbide (SiC) based inverters, achieving the zero voltage switching (ZVS) performance is attractive but rather difficult. The difficulty is mainly due to the tight coupling of output current ripples and a wide range of operating conditions in ac motor drive system. This article solves above issues by a variable switching frequency discontinuous pulsewidth modulation (DPWM) strategy based on circulating current ripple prediction method, where the two paralleled SiC inverters are used with the coupled inductors. First, the PWM signals of paralleled phase-legs are interleaved by 180° to generate the circulating current ripple, and simultaneously provide a three-level voltage output for ac motors. Combining the sampled fundamental current and predicted high-frequency circulating current ripple, the turn-on current of all SiC devices can be easily calculated, where no additional auxiliary circuit is required. Second, a freedom of switching frequency can be utilized to control the turn-on current value or direction to achieve ZVS condition of all SiC switches. Third, to overcome the penalty of the semiconductors conduction loss and coupled inductor loss under ZVS condition, DPWM schemes are carefully investigated, which features lower RMS current and more uniform distribution of circulating current ripple, compared with the traditional space vector pulsewidth modulation. Finally, both theoretical analysis and experimental experiments are provided to verify the performance of proposed strategy.
Climatology of Mesoscale Warm and Cold Fronts in the Kanto Plain.

A statistical analysis is made of mesoscale warm fronts (MWFs) and mesoscale cold fronts (MCFs) in the Kanto plain by using hourly surface data covering eleven years. A series of objective criteria are used to select 190 MWFs and 177 MCFs, and composite analyses are made of their local structure, seasonal and diurnal variabilities, and the larger-scale environment. MWFs are associated with southeast-southwest winds or northwest winds blowing against a shallow cold-air pool having a depth of a few hundred meters. The MWF associated with southeast-southwest winds corresponds to the warm-air intrusion during the passage of a cyclone, while the MWF associated with northwest winds corresponds to a strong northwesterly surge. The frequency of MWFs is highest between 06 and 12 JST. The MCF generally occurs during a cold-air surge. From late autumn to winter, the MCF is mainly associated with northwest winds accompanied by shallow cold air in its leading edge, and is more frequent in the nighttime than in the daytime. From spring to summer, MCFs associated with northeast or east winds are more frequent than those associated with northwest winds, and have a strong tendency to occur in the afternoon.