bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production Problems of the Commercial-Aircraft Manufacturer
Authors: Porterfield E. E.
Published: January 2024

The author divides the problems confronting the manufacturer of commercial airplanes into those of production and sales, and confines himself to the first of these. The problems of production include inadequate supply of motors and lack of an outstanding standard type, unreliability of supply of materials of construction, uncertainty of schedule to follow in large-scale production, difficulties arising out of the certification required by the Department of Commerce, standardization of product, methods, and materials, and the coordination of production and distribution.
Scientific Studies of Natural Flight
Authors: Boel Maurice
Published: January 2024

In this paper the author gives the results of studies and experiments in bird flight with a view to bringing out features that can be used to advantage in future construction of airplanes. Birds can remain stationary in the air, they can rise and descend almost vertically, and can alight on a particular spot slowly. These are maneuvers not yet possible with airplanes.

The author has also developed a new theory of flapping flight. He renounces the analogy between wings and oars, and shows that flapping flight consists of a succession of short descents in gliding flight. The bird by flapping its wings is lifted a certain amount, and when released moves forward by gliding.

Various classes of flight by birds are discussed under four general headings. They are gliding flight, soaring flight, propulsion flight, and flapping flight. The mechanics, speed, stability, and useful power of the various classes are worked out by typical examples to show how the various types of birds are adapted to particular types of flying. The exterior anatomy of birds, problems of flight, and resistance of air are discussed, and examples are given to show the influence of the lines of the bird on its aerodynamic characteristics.
Short Flanged-Tube Cantilevers Under Concentrated Radial Load
Authors: Roop Wendell P.
Published: January 2024

The author gives results of tests of a short thin-walled tube fixed at one end and reinforced at the free end by a flange, which was loaded radially at the free end. The elastic deflections and ultimate strength were observed, and the author devises formulas for their expression. The strength and stiffness of an elastic ring are discussed mathematically in an appendix.
Deflection of a Round-End Strut Subjected to a Constant Moment or a Transverse Force at the Middle
Authors: Boyd James E.
Published: January 2024

When a loaded strut is subjected to a transverse force or any other bending moment in addition to that caused by the longitudinal load, the additional deflection is greater than it would be if the additional moment were applied to the strut as a beam. In this paper an equation is derived for the deflection of a loaded round-end strut subjected to a transverse force at the middle and a moment which is constant throughout the length. To experimentally investigate the theory, tests were made on a cold-rolled steel strut 60 in. long and 1.25 in. in diameter with transverse forces of 5 lb. and 10 lb. at the middle. Measurements were taken for a series of longitudinal loads with positive, negative, and nearly zero eccentricity. Other experiments were made with a constant moment alone.

For both sets of experiments the additional deflections agree so closely with the theory as to leave no doubt in regard to the validity of the equations.

For the application of the theory, a formula which gives the ratio of the additional deflection of a loaded strut to its deflection as a beam in terms of the ratio of the longitudinal load to Euler’s critical load is derived for each of these two moment conditions. A similar formula is derived for a uniformly distributed transverse force. Tables and curves are given which show the relation of these ratios with sufficient accuracy for practical computations.
Calculation of Flywheels for Air Compressors
Authors: Goss H. R. , Putman H. V.
Published: January 2024

The authors present a short history of the application of low-speed synchronous motors direct connected to ammonia compressors. It is shown how the use of XY curves has brought about a practical solution of the flywheel problem and how in practically all present-day cases the necessary flywheel effect can be incorporated in the rotor of the synchronous motor. A short history of the application of synchronous motors to air compressors is also given, and the special problems encountered due to the unbalanced weights of reciprocating parts and to part-load operation of air compressors are discussed.

A derivation of the fundamental differential equation of the XY curve is given and a simple method presented for its solution. An example illustrating the method of making XY curves is given. Curves and data are given which materially reduce the labor involved in making XY curves. A set of eight XY curves for two-cylinder double-acting two-stage air compressors is included. These curves cover full-load, no-load, and six different part-load conditions. A second set of two XY curves is presented covering full-load and no-load operation for single-cylinder double-acting single-stage compressors.

The paper has two appendixes. Appendix No. 1 presents formulas for calculating the theoretical indicated horsepower for single- or for two-stage multi-cylinder compressors. Appendix No. 2 presents methods of calculation of the theoretical torque curves for compressors. An expression for the inertia torque due to the reciprocating parts of a compressor is given. Tables are presented giving the results of the harmonic analysis of the torque curves due to the gas forces at full load, half load, and no load for the high-pressure and low-pressure cylinders. It is shown how these harmonics of the separate cylinders can be combined to give the harmonics in the torque of the complete machine when operating at full load or under part-load conditions.
Stresses in Heavy Closely Coiled Helical Springs
Authors: Wahl A. M.
Published: January 2024

In this paper more exact formulas are derived for computing stress in heavy closely coiled helical springs of the type used frequently in railway work. These formulas indicate that the maximum stress in such springs may, in many practical cases, be from 40 to 60 per cent greater than the stress computed by the use of ordinary helical-spring formulas. The new formulas are verified by strain measurements, using special extensometers on semi-coils of actual springs loaded so as to simulate the axial loading of a complete spring, and on complete springs loaded in compression. The work indicates that the frequent failures of this type of spring in service may, at least in part, be due to the existence of higher stresses than has been thought possible on the basis of ordinary spring formulas.
Design and Construction of Substructures of Steam Power Stations
Authors: Stevens P. E.
Published: January 2024

This paper discusses the substructures used under varying conditions in several localities. One located in an old river bed required the solution of many difficult problems. Another located 350 ft. from a river bank was constructed on a site which was overflowed to a depth of several feet during high-water stages. Still another developed an interesting method for solving the problem of wet excavation through pit and tunnel work.
Modern Stoker Equipment
Authors: Hirshfeld C. F. , Moran G. U.
Published: January 2024

This paper describes improvements that have been made in stoker construction to adapt them to modern needs. Improved types are constructed carefully, are capable of accurate control and are used in large sizes. In choosing stoker equipment, the authors feel that generous allowance should be made above the apparent maximum requirements for fuel feed.
Condition Curves and Reheat Factors for Steam Turbines
Authors: Franck Clarence C.
Published: January 2024

This paper offers a theory for “condition curves and reheat factors” developed by a study of the basic thermodynamic principles involved. A method is developed which makes possible the construction of “condition curves” for any turbine, when certain operating or guarantee characteristics are known. The question of “condition curves” immediately presents the closely related “reheat factor,” and the theory developed for the “condition curve” has been applied to determine values for “reheat factors.”
Coal Pulverizers
Authors: London W. J. A.
Published: January 2024

Commercial coal pulverizers vary greatly in their performance. While there are two principles of attrition and impact on which pulverizing mills are based, there are such radical differences of design as to raise the question of correct fundamentals. Guarantees are given on performance when the engineering problems are difficult of determination with any degree of accuracy. Analysis of what actually takes place in a mill leads to a suggested design.
Low-Temperature Distillation of Low-Grade Fuels, Especially Lignites
Authors: Toltz Max
Published: January 2024

This paper is not intended to be a description of the various types of apparatus which are used in low-temperature distillation of low-grade fuels. On the contrary, its main purpose is to point out the advantages which inhere in these processes, and which result in greater usefulness and economies, particularly with reference to the lignite as found in the northwestern portion of the United States.
A Laboratory Slagging Test for Boiler-Furnace Refractories
Authors: Hursh R. K.
Published: January 2024

This paper gives particulars of a simulative service test of refractories with coal-ash slag made in a laboratory furnace in which the test brick form the lining of a cylindrical chamber rotated about a vertical axis. Powdered slag or a mixture of slag with powdered coal is fed at a uniform rate through the gas burner which heats the furnace, impinging on the vertical faces of the brick and flowing out through the bottom of the furnace. Temperature and atmospheric conditions are controlled and the test brick receive equal slag treatment. Comparison of slag effect on the refractories is made by volume loss per unit area of exposed surface.

Tests have been made with slags representing coals used at five power stations where field tests were conducted, and the results are presented by the author. He finds that the relative effects of these different slags at a furnace temperature of 2900 deg. fahr. varies with the composition and fusibility of the coal ash. Further, the erosion of the refractory is dependent on the viscosity of the slag and increases in direct proportion to the furnace temperature. Tests made at temperatures corresponding to those in the boiler furnaces produce similar action on the refractories, as indicated by petrographic examinations. The relative resistance of refractories of different composition and physical structure is not the same for different slags.
Design of Steam Piping to Care for Expansion
Authors: Shipman W. H.
Published: January 2024

This paper endeavors (1) to arrive at the fundamental principles of design, (2) to present a complete mathematical theory of piping subjected to expansion, and (3) to reduce the very complicated results to a simple, usable basis.

The mathematical analysis of expansion stresses and reactions is presented for discussion as the basis of a proposed code of practice for the design of steam piping. The mathematical analysis is verified by experimental work, part of which has been previously published, and part of which is original. Further check by experiment is desirable, and the cooperation of other engineers is requested in building up an absolutely dependable body of data upon which a code of practice may be based.
Dredge-Pump Pressures and Thrust Loads
Authors: Polhemus James H. , Healy James
Published: January 2024

The Port of Portland engineering staff, desiring to determine the actual thrust loads and pressures acting on the impeller of a dredge pump, carried on some tests which should be of interest to members of this society.

Pressure gages were installed at controlling points in both the front and back heads of the 2700-b.hp. 30-in. pump of the dredge Clackamas and a series of tests run to determine the effect of varying lengths of pipe line, impeller clearances, and impellers with and without relief holes in the back shroud.

The results of the tests showed clearly:

1 That relief holes in the back of the impeller materially reduced the thrust load and did not reduce the efficiency of the pump to any noticeable degree.

2 That renewable clearance rings and small vanes on the outside of the impeller shrouds are necessary to maintain close clearances and control the thrust loads.

3 While large clearances produce low thrusts, close clearances do not create a prohibitive thrust and are necessary to maintain a high pump efficiency.

4 That the pressures on the front and back shrouds are not the same and are considerably less than the pump discharge pressure.

5 That the whirlpool pressures are not as high as the discharge pressure of the pump, and that the pressures in the lower half of the pump casing are somewhat greater than those in the upper half.

6 That it is not necessary to carry the same pressure on the water service to the pump-shaft seal as is the discharge pressure of the dredge pump.

7 That as might be expected the thrust load increased with the total head.

8 That the thrust load is greater for any given condition when pumping material rather than water.

9 That the thrust loads are less for any given heads with the smaller high-speed pump impeller as compared with larger slow-speed impellers.
Permissible Suction Head of High-Speed Propeller Turbines
Authors: Pfau Arnold
Published: January 2024

The paper discusses the general phenomena of pitting and cites the underlying causes. It explains the necessity for special caution in the selection of the setting of a high-speed propeller turbine. To fully realize these causes a new explanation is given of the flow conditions in a high-speed propeller, and it shows that these conditions add an item to the suction head which does not enter into the problem with reaction or action turbines. Particularly this paper emphasizes the wide variation in the characteristics of turbine runners that are termed the “propeller type” and directs attention to the difficulty that may be encountered from generalization based on the use of a single mathematical equation or expression.
Industry Specifies Its School Training Needs
Authors: Palmer Virgil M.
Published: January 2024

This paper describes a cooperative educational experiment being carried on by the industries of Rochester, N. Y., and the Rochester Mechanics Institute. It covers conditions leading to a survey by industry of its educational training needs, the appointment of a committee for this purpose, and the resulting detailed recommendations.

It was found that while educational requirements for major executives and for the great base of industrial common labor are now fairly well covered by educational institutions, there is an important intermediate field in which are the junior line and staff executives, which as yet has not been adequately covered.

Specifications expressed in terms of the qualities desired in the Institute’s graduates were formulated, together with detailed recommendations covering training method and course content which in the judgment of Rochester industries would best meet these specifications.

Industry’s obligation in training the cooperative student within the factory is acknowledged, and recommendations are outlined to make the Institute most effective in its service to Rochester industries and to lead to the closest possible cooperation.
Cleaning and Painting of Automobile Parts
Authors: Pfeil William
Published: January 2024

Methods of handling parts for cleaning and painting by a conveyor system are described by the author. Advantage was taken of the consolidation of work at the South Bend plant of the Studebaker Corporation to install a modern materials-handling system. The advantages of this system are illustrated by following the various processes to which fenders and sheet-metal parts are subjected. By use of the improved layout production was increased 200 per cent.
Production Method Used in the Electrical Industry
Authors: Spray E. L.
Published: January 2024

The principal field for use of conveyor systems in the electrical industry is in the manufacture of devices that are operated by electric current. In this paper the author describes production methods used in the plant of the Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing Company at Mansfield, Ohio. Sad irons, ranges, switches, waffle irons and toasters are now assembled on conveyors, and assembly costs have been reduced from 15 to 35 per cent. Results obtained include lower labor costs, reduced inventories, fewer rejects, less floor space, better processes, better machining, and a more uniform product.
Economic Aspects of the Shipment of Materials on Skid Platforms
Authors: Crockett C. B.
Published: January 2024

This paper presents some of the economic aspects of the platform method viewed purely from the standpoint of the shipper or receiver of the material. The method is described both as to equipment and its uses, and to its relation to the manufacturing processes. A comparison is made between the total cost of physical distribution and the cost of freight transportation only, pointing out the small influence of the latter factor in the total cost. The field of savings is then discussed, including labor costs, speed of car loadings, the container or skid, and the damage to material. These are illustrated with actual instances which have occurred in various industries.

The paper concludes with a treatment of the possible growth of the system and the four main factors which may influence its more general adoption: namely, (1) the breadth of application to different commodities, (2) the coordination of the system with methods of handling within the plant, (3) the altitude of the railroads and other carriers, and (4) the degree of interchangeabilily developed in the equipment.
Skid Shipments
Authors: Wright Geo. B.
Published: January 2024

The author discusses skid platforms, stock, skid boxes, power-lift and hand-lift trucks in the handling of cargoes in Great Lakes navigation. He points out that the greatest problem to be faced is the practicability of interchange between carriers, and between carriers and industrial plants. The solution, he believes, can only be arrived at through discussion between representatives of industries, steam railroads, electric lines, steamer lines, city transfer trucking companies, and storage warehouses.
Widia, Its Development and Shop Applications
Authors: Prosser Roger D.
Published: January 2024

The history of the development of tungsten-carbide alloys is told, and the part that the Krupp Worlds has had in it is detailed. Instances are given where the use of Widia cutting tools has speeded up production, in one case the cutting speed having been increased from 190 ft. per min. to 592 ft. The regrinding of Widia tools is stated to be required less frequently than with high-speed tool steel, a case being given where the previous tool was dressed up after 25 parts had been produced, and when Widia tools were used there was a production of 100 parts before regrinding. Its use in machining soft but abrasive materials is compared with the use of the diamond.
The Evolution of the German Printing Trade
Authors: Helmberger Franz
Published: January 2024

An increase of 37 per cent in the number of employees indicates how rapidly the printing industry is growing in Germany. Banknotes and stock certificates are printed by letterpress, at a great gain in time and cost, and no forgeries have resulted through not using the more intricate intaglio or engraved process. German printers are putting standardization into effect, and a great cooperative research plan will be carried out.
Research Problems in Photo-Engraving
Authors: Wilkinson William J. , Schuetz Adolph
Published: January 2024

The photo-engraver has difficulty in holding to a set of standards because of the many differing requirements of the publications for which the plates are made. The photo-engraving industry has made great progress through research. Photo-engraving is the basic principle of most of the newer methods of reproduction and will be carried on to even greater heights of perfection.
Effect on Research and Production of Present Material-Handling Methods
Authors: Hagemann George E.
Published: January 2024

The expert describes how the introduction of material-handling methods has solved an unlimited number of problems. This equipment reduces the manual element in operations, and thereby saves time, reduces the supervision necessary with hand labor, and increases output. The major object of every production-research study is threefold—reduction of the human element, increased volume of product, and lower costs. Material-handling devices aid materially in accomplishing these objectives.
Drum Sander Manufacture and Use
Authors: Williams Richard A.
Published: January 2024

In this paper the author describes the essentials of some types of sanding machines and tells how various troubles are overcome. To turn out good work the drums of a sanding machine must be rigid and run true. The abrasive paper must be held securely and the drum must have dynamic balance. Direct motor drive is now considered as regular equipment for drum sanders. Advantages of the roll-feed sander and the endless-bed type are given.
Experimental Investigation of the Influence of Various Wear Parameters on the Tribological Characteristics of AZ91 Hybrid Composites and Their Machine Learning Modeling
Authors: Ammisetti Dhanunjay Kumar , Kruthiventi S. S. Harish
Published: January 2024

In the current work, the AZ91 hybrid composites are fabricated through the utilization of the stir casting technique, incorporating aluminum oxide (Al2O3) and graphene (Gr) as reinforcing elements. Wear behavior of the AZ91/Gr/Al2O3 composites was examined with the pin-on-disc setup under dry conditions. In this study, the factors such as reinforcement percentage (R), load (L), velocity (V), and sliding distance (D) have been chosen to investigate their impact on the wear-rate (WR) and coefficient of friction (COF). This study utilizes a full factorial design to conduct experiments. The experimental data was critically analyzed to examine the impact of each wear parameter (i.e., R, L, V, and D) on the WR and COF of composites. The wear mechanisms at the extreme conditions of maximum and minimum wear rates are also investigated by utilizing the scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of specimen's surface. The SEM study revealed the presence of delamination, abrasion, oxidation, and adhesion mechanisms on the surface experiencing wear. Machine learning (ML) models, such as decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), and gradient boosting regression (GBR), are employed to create a robust prediction model for predicting output responses based on input variables. The prediction model was trained and tested with 95% and 5% experimental data points, respectively. It was noticed that among all the models, the GBR model exhibited superior performance in predicting WR, with mean square error (MSE) = 0.0398, root-mean-square error (RMSE) = 0.1996, mean absolute error (MAE) = 0.1673, and R2 = 98.89, surpassing the accuracy of other models.
Investigations on Ways to Improve the Scuffing and Wear Behavior of Oil-Free Water-Based Lubricants for Gear Applications
Authors: Barth Yves Johannes , Sagraloff Nadine , Egger Gregor , Tobie Thomas , Stahl Karsten
Published: January 2024

Today, mineral or synthetic oils that are made out of fossil raw materials are the most common lubricants in gear drive applications. Most of them are nonbiodegradable and may pose a risk to the environment. An important step to minimize the risk and the ecological footprint is the use of biodegradable and eco-friendly lubricants. Former research shows the potential of water-based lubricants in gear applications. Therefore, an oil-free, water-based lubricant was developed for this study. The base lubricant contains plant-based thickeners to generate an appropriate viscosity for a sufficient lubricant film thickness in the tooth contact. In experimental investigations, the sliding wear and scuffing performance has been examined under variation of the added polymers and additives. The scuffing tests A/8.3/RT are performed according to DIN ISO 14635-1. The wear test procedure is based on DGMK 377-01. In both scuffing tests with the sample, the failure load stage = 8 was achieved. For case-carburized gears, a “medium” to “high” amount of wear can be detected. Additional tests with nitrided gears show a “low” amount of wear. This article aims to show the great potential of water-based oils for gear lubrication and suggests operating conditions for maximum wear and scuffing carrying capacity.
Uniform Homeostatic Stress Through Individualized Interval Training Facilitates Homogeneous Adaptations Across Rowers With Different Profiles
Authors: Luo Xiaohong , Zhang Dongwei , Yu Wenlu
Published: January 2024

Purpose: This study compared the effects of individualizing supramaximal interval rowing interventions using anaerobic power reserve (APR [high-intensity interval training (HIIT) prescribed according to individual APR (HIITAPR)]) and power associated with maximal oxygen uptake ( [HIIT prescribed based on the individual (HIITW)]) on the homogeneity of physiological and performance adaptations. Methods: Twenty-four well-trained rowers (age 24.8 [4.3] y, stature 182.5 [3] cm, body mass 86.1 [4.3]) were randomized into interventions consisting of 4 × 30-second intervals at 130%APR ( + 0.3 × maximal sprint power) with weekly progression by increasing the number of repetitions per set (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10, from first to sixth session) and the same sets and repetitions with the intensity described as 130% . The work-to-recovery ratio was 1:1 for repetitions and 3 minutes between sets. Responses of aerobic fitness indices, power output, cardiac hemodynamics, locomotor abilities, and time-trial performance were examined. Results: Both HIITAPR and HIITW interventions significantly improved , lactate threshold, cardiac hemodynamics, and 2000-m performance, with no between-groups difference in changes over time. However, HIITAPR resulted in a lower interindividual variability in adaptations in and related physiological parameters, but this is not the case for athletic performance, which can depend on a multitude of factors beyond physiological parameters. Conclusions: Results demonstrated that expressing supramaximal interval intensity as a proportion of APR facilitates imposing the same degrees of homeostatic stress and leads to more homogeneous physiological adaptations in maximal variables when compared to prescribing a supramaximal HIIT intervention using . However, lower interindividual variability would be seen in submaximal variables if HIIT interventions were prescribed using .
Addressing Circadian Disruptions in Visually Impaired Paralympic Athletes
Authors: Anderson Travis , Adams William M. , Burns Geoffrey T. , Post Eric G. , Baumann Sally , Clark Emily , Cogan Karen , Finnoff Jonathan T.
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Transmeridian travel is common for elite athletes participating in competitions and training. However, this travel can lead to circadian misalignment wherein the internal biological clock becomes desynchronized with the light–dark cycle of the new environment, resulting in performance decrement and potential negative health consequences. Existing literature extensively discusses recommendations for managing jet lag, predominantly emphasizing light-based interventions to synchronize the internal clock with the anticipated time at the destination. Nevertheless, visually impaired (VI) athletes may lack photoreceptiveness, diminishing or nullifying the effectiveness of this therapy. Consequently, this invited commentary explores alternative strategies for addressing jet lag in VI athletes. Conclusions: VI athletes with light perception but reduced visual acuity or visual fields may still benefit from light interventions in managing jet lag. However, VI athletes lacking a conscious perception of light should rely on gradual shifts in behavioral factors, such as meal timing and exercise, to facilitate the entrainment of circadian rhythms to the destination time. Furthermore, interventions like melatonin supplementation may prove useful during and after travel. In addition, it is recommended that athlete guides adopt phase-forward or phase-back approaches to synchronize with the athlete, aiding in jet-lag management and optimizing performance.
Cooperative transcriptional regulation by ATAF1 and HY5 promotes light-induced cotyledon opening in
Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Yao Xiuhong , Fang Ke , Qiao Kang , Xiong Jiawei , Lan Jiayi , Chen Juan , Tian Yuang , Kang Xinke , Lei Wei , Zhang Dawei , Lin Honghui
Published: January 2024

The opening of the embryonic leaves (cotyledons) as seedlings emerge from the dark soil into the light is crucial to ensure the survival of the plant. Seedlings that sprout in the dark elongate rapidly to reach light but keep their cotyledons closed. During de-etiolation, the transition from dark to light growth, elongation slows and the cotyledons open. Here, we report that the transcription factor ACTIVATING FACTOR1 (ATAF1) participates in de-etiolation and facilitates light-induced cotyledon opening. The transition from dark to light rapidly induced
ATAF1
expression and ATAF1 accumulation in cotyledons. Seedlings lacking or overexpressing ATAF1 exhibited reduced or enhanced cotyledon opening, respectively, and transcriptomic analysis indicated that ATAF1 repressed the expression of genes associated with growth and cotyledon closure. The activation of the photoreceptor phytochrome A (phyA) by far-red light induced its association with the
ATAF1
promoter and stimulation of
ATAF1
expression. The transcription factor ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL5 (HY5), which is also activated in response far-red light, cooperated with phyA to induce
ATAF1
expression. ATAF1 and HY5 interacted with one another and cooperatively repressed the expression of growth-promoting and cotyledon closure genes. Together, our study reveals a mechanism through which far-red light promotes cotyledon opening.
Status and prospects of the LHCb experiment
Authors: Owen Patrick , Serra Nicola
Published: January 2024

We discuss the status and prospects of the Large Hadron Collider beauty (LHCb) experiment, one of the four large detectors based at the LHC. The physics programme of the experiment is discussed by highlighting the status of rare b-quark decays, charged current semileptonic decays and the searches for CP violation. These areas make a strong cases for a second upgrade of LHCb, which will fully harness the HL-LHC’s potential as a flavour physics machine while maintaining a rich and diverse research programme. The upgrade also provides an opportunity for the development of novel detector technologies during an exciting period of anticipation in preparation for the future circular collider currently foreseen.
Multiple-instance Learning from Triplet Comparison Bags
Authors: Shu Senlin , Wang Deng-Bao , Yuan Suqin , Wei Hongxin , Jiang Jiuchuan , Feng Lei , Zhang Min-Ling
Published: January 2024

Multiple-instance learning
(MIL) solves the problem where training instances are grouped in bags, and a binary (positive or negative) label is provided for each bag. Most of the existing MIL studies need fully labeled bags for training an effective classifier, while it could be quite hard to collect such data in many real-world scenarios, due to the high cost of data labeling process. Fortunately, unlike fully labeled data,
triplet comparison data
can be collected in a more accurate and human-friendly way. Therefore, in this article, we for the first time investigate MIL from
only triplet comparison bags
, where a triplet

(X
a
, X
b
, X
c
)

contains the weak supervision information that bag

X
a

is more similar to

X
b

than to

X
c

. To solve this problem, we propose to train a bag-level classifier by the empirical risk minimization framework and theoretically provide a generalization error bound. We also show that a convex formulation can be obtained only when specific convex binary losses such as the square loss and the double hinge loss are used. Extensive experiments validate that our proposed method significantly outperforms other baselines.
IoT-enabled Biometric Security: Enhancing Smart Car Safety with Depth-based Head Pose Estimation
Authors: Bisogni Carmen , Cascone Lucia , Nappi Michele , Pero Chiara
Published: January 2024

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are experiencing higher levels of automation, facilitated by the synergy among various sensors integrated within vehicles, thereby forming an Internet of Things (IoT) framework. Among these sensors, cameras have emerged as valuable tools for detecting driver fatigue and distraction. This study introduces HYDE-F, a Head Pose Estimation (HPE) system exclusively utilizing depth cameras. HYDE-F adeptly identifies critical driver head poses associated with risky conditions, thus enhancing the safety of IoT-enabled ADAS. The core of HYDE-F’s innovation lies in its dual-process approach: it employs a fractal encoding technique and keypoint intensity analysis in parallel. These two processes are then fused using an optimization algorithm, enabling HYDE-F to blend the strengths of both methods for enhanced accuracy. Evaluations conducted on a specialized driving dataset, Pandora, demonstrate HYDE-F’s competitive performance compared to existing methods, surpassing current techniques in terms of average Mean Absolute Error (MAE) by nearly 1
∘
. Moreover, case studies highlight the successful integration of HYDE-F with vehicle sensors. Additionally, HYDE-F exhibits robust generalization capabilities, as evidenced by experiments conducted on standard laboratory-based HPE datasets, i.e., Biwi and ICT-3DHP databases, achieving an average MAE of 4.9
∘
and 5
∘
, respectively.
A Semantics-enhanced Topic Modelling Technique: Semantic-LDA
Authors: Geeganage Dakshi Kapugama , Xu Yue , Li Yuefeng
Published: January 2024

Topic modelling is a beneficial technique used to discover latent topics in text collections. But to correctly understand the text content and generate a meaningful topic list, semantics are important. By ignoring semantics, that is, not attempting to grasp the meaning of the words, most of the existing topic modelling approaches can generate some meaningless topic words. Even existing semantic-based approaches usually interpret the meanings of words without considering the context and related words. In this article, we introduce a semantic-based topic model called semantic-LDA that captures the semantics of words in a text collection using concepts from an external ontology. A new method is introduced to identify and quantify the concept–word relationships based on matching words from the input text collection with concepts from an ontology without using pre-calculated values from the ontology that quantify the relationships between the words and concepts. These pre-calculated values may not reflect the actual relationships between words and concepts for the input collection, because they are derived from datasets used to build the ontology rather than from the input collection itself. Instead, quantifying the relationship based on the word distribution in the input collection is more realistic and beneficial in the semantic capture process. Furthermore, an ambiguity handling mechanism is introduced to interpret the unmatched words, that is, words for which there are no matching concepts in the ontology. Thus, this article makes a significant contribution by introducing a semantic-based topic model that calculates the word–concept relationships directly from the input text collection. The proposed semantic-based topic model and an enhanced version with the disambiguation mechanism were evaluated against a set of state-of-the-art systems, and our approaches outperformed the baseline systems in both topic quality and information filtering evaluations.
ID-SR: Privacy-Preserving Social Recommendation Based on Infinite Divisibility for Trustworthy AI
Authors: Cui Jingyi , Xu Guangquan , Liu Jian , Feng Shicheng , Wang Jianli , Peng Hao , Fu Shihui , Zheng Zhaohua , Zheng Xi , Liu Shaoying
Published: January 2024

Recommendation systems powered by artificial intelligence (AI) are widely used to improve user experience. However, AI inevitably raises privacy leakage and other security issues due to the utilization of extensive user data. Addressing these challenges can protect users’ personal information, benefit service providers, and foster service ecosystems. Presently, numerous techniques based on differential privacy have been proposed to solve this problem. However, existing solutions encounter issues such as inadequate data utilization and a tenuous trade-off between privacy protection and recommendation effectiveness. To enhance recommendation accuracy and protect users’ private data, we propose ID-SR, a novel privacy-preserving social recommendation scheme for trustworthy AI based on the infinite divisibility of Laplace distribution. We first introduce a novel recommendation method adopted in ID-SR, which is established based on matrix factorization with a newly designed social regularization term for improving recommendation effectiveness. We then propose a differential privacy-preserving scheme tailored to the above method that leverages the Laplace distribution’s characteristics to safeguard user data. Theoretical analysis and experimentation evaluation on two publicly available datasets demonstrate that our scheme achieves a superior balance between privacy protection and recommendation effectiveness, ultimately delivering an enhanced user experience.
Fitting Distances by Tree Metrics Minimizing the Total Error within a Constant Factor
Authors: Cohen-Addad Vincent , Das Debarati , Kipouridis Evangelos , Parotsidis Nikos , Thorup Mikkel
Published: January 2024

We consider the numerical taxonomy problem of fitting a positive distance function

\({\mathcal {D}:{S\choose 2}\rightarrow \mathbb {R}_{\gt 0}}\)

by a tree metric. We want a tree
T
with positive edge weights and including
S
among the vertices so that their distances in
T
match those in

\(\mathcal {D}\)

. A nice application is in evolutionary biology where the tree
T
aims to approximate thebranching process leading to the observed distances in

\(\mathcal {D}\)

[Cavalli-Sforza and Edwards 1967]. We consider the total error, that is, the sum of distance errors over all pairs of points. We present a deterministic polynomial time algorithm minimizing the total error within a constant factor. We can do this both for general trees and for the special case of ultrametrics with a root having the same distance to all vertices in
S
.

The problems are APX-hard, so a constant factor is the best we can hope for in polynomial time. The best previous approximation factor was
O
((log
n
)(log log
n
)) by Ailon and Charikar [2005], who wrote “determining whether an
O
(1) approximation can be obtained is a fascinating question.”
Critical Advances for Democratizing Ultrasound Diagnostics in Human and Veterinary Medicine
Authors: Kaffas Ahmed El , Vo-Phamhi Jenny M. , Griffin John F. , Hoyt Kenneth
Published: January 2024

The democratization of ultrasound imaging refers to the process of making ultrasound technology more accessible. Traditionally, ultrasound imaging has been predominately used in specialized medical facilities by trained professionals. Advancements in technology and changes in the health-care landscape have inspired efforts to broaden the availability of ultrasound imaging to various settings such as remote and resource-limited areas. In this review, we highlight several key factors that have contributed to the ongoing democratization of ultrasound imaging, including portable and handheld devices, recent advancements in technology, and training and education. Examples of diagnostic point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) imaging used in emergency and critical care, gastroenterology, musculoskeletal applications, and other practices are provided for both human and veterinary medicine. Open challenges and the future of POCUS imaging are presented, including the emerging role of artificial intelligence in technology development.
Challenges and Opportunities for Paving the Road to Global Health Equity Through Implementation Science
Authors: Adsul Prajakta , Shelton Rachel C. , Oh April , Moise Nathalie , Iwelunmor Juliet , Griffith Derek M.
Published: January 2024

Implementation science focuses on enhancing the widespread uptake of evidence-based interventions into routine practice to improve population health. However, optimizing implementation science to promote health equity in domestic and global resource-limited settings requires considering historical and sociopolitical processes (e.g., colonization, structural racism) and centering in local sociocultural and indigenous cultures and values. This review weaves together principles of decolonization and antiracism to inform critical and reflexive perspectives on partnerships that incorporate a focus on implementation science, with the goal of making progress toward global health equity. From an implementation science perspective, wesynthesize examples of public health evidence-based interventions, strategies, and outcomes applied in global settings that are promising for health equity, alongside a critical examination of partnerships, context, and frameworks operationalized in these studies. We conclude with key future directions to optimize the application of implementation science with a justice orientation to promote global health equity.
A Novel Heterozygous De Novo MORC2 Missense Variant Causes an Early Onset and Severe Neurodevelopmental Disorder
Authors: Arbide Daniel , Elkhateeb Nour , Goljan Ewa , Gonzalez Carolina Perez , Maw Anna , Park Soo-Mi
Published: January 2024

Microrchidia CW-type zinc finger protein 2 (MORC2) is an ATPase-containing nuclear protein which regulates transcription through chromatin remodelling and epigenetic silencing. MORC2 may have a role in the development of neurones, and dominant variants in this gene have recently been linked with disorders including Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 2Z disease, spinal muscular atrophy and, more recently, a neurodevelopmental syndrome consisting of developmental delay, impaired growth, dysmorphic facies, and axonal neuropathy (DIGFAN), presenting with hypotonia, microcephaly, brain atrophy, intellectual disability, hearing loss, faltering growth, and craniofacial dysmorphism. Notably, variants in MORC2 have shown clinical features overlapping with those of Cockayne and Leigh syndromes. Here, we report a case of MORC2-related DIGFAN syndrome in a female infant caused by a novel heterozygous de novo variant. The condition was early onset and severe, further expanding the range of genotypes associated with this disorder. Clinical features included unilateral hearing loss, developmental delay and regression within the first year of life, microcephaly, severe feeding difficulties, and faltering growth, resulting in death at 13 months of age.
The Relationship between Complements and Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Its Pathogenesis
Authors: Chu Liyuan , Bi Chaoran , Wang Caiming , Zhou Hongyan
Published: January 2024

Age-related macular degeneration is a retinal disease that causes permanent loss of central vision in people over the age of 65. Its pathogenesis may be related to mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy, complement, intestinal flora, and lipid disorders. In addition, the patient’s genes, age, gender, cardiovascular disease, unhealthy diet, and living habits may also be risk factors for this disease. Complement proteins are widely distributed in serum and tissue fluid. In the early 21st century, a connection was found between the complement cascade and age-related macular degeneration. However, little is known about the effect of complement factors on the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration. This article reviews the factors associated with age-related macular degeneration, the relationship between each factor and complement, the related functions, and variants and provides new ideas for the treatment of this disease.
From Roots to Leaves: Understanding Consumer Acceptance in Implementing Climate-Resilient Strategies in Viticulture
Authors: Di Vita Giuseppe , Califano Giovanbattista , Raimondo Maria , Spina Daniela , Hamam Manal , D’Amico Mario , Caracciolo Francesco
Published: January 2024

This study investigates consumer perceptions and acceptance of innovative strategies implemented to counter the effects of climate change in the wine industry. The acceptance of wines derived from grapes grown using four different vineyard management practices—kaolin application, use of plant growth regulators, introduction of resilient rootstocks, and fungus-resistant grape varieties (PIWI)—is analyzed. Utilizing a latent profile analysis, the study identifies five distinct consumer profiles, each displaying unique sensitivities and perceptions towards climate change threats. The findings reveal notable variations in consumers’ willingness to accept these innovations. Additionally, the study offers insights into how these preferences influence the marketability of wines produced using these innovative techniques. The overall results depict heterogeneous acceptance of these practices. Consumers seem more inclined to choose wines derived from vines with innovative rootstocks and those treated with kaolin. The acceptance for PIWI varieties and PGR is comparatively marginal. The outcomes of this study provide valuable insights for winegrowers, policymakers, and other industry stakeholders on effectively implementing and communicating these solutions. Overall, the research findings contribute significantly to understanding consumer behavior within the context of climate change in the wine industry, presenting substantial implications for sustainable viticulture practices and wine marketing strategies.
Supplementary Video S1B from Gain-of-Function p53 Mutation Acts as a Genetic Switch for TGFβ Signaling–Induced Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Intestinal Tumors
Authors: Wang Dong , Nakayama Mizuho , Hong Chang Pyo , Oshima Hiroko , Oshima Masanobu
Published: January 2024

Time-lapse analysis of control organoid
Supplementary Table S2 from Gain-of-Function p53 Mutation Acts as a Genetic Switch for TGFβ Signaling–Induced Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Intestinal Tumors
Authors: Wang Dong , Nakayama Mizuho , Hong Chang Pyo , Oshima Hiroko , Oshima Masanobu
Published: January 2024

Up-regulated genes (>2) in control or activin-treated AKTFP(M/LOH) by p53 LOH
Supplementary Table 1 from XPO1 Enables Adaptive Regulation of mRNA Export Required for Genotoxic Stress Tolerance in Cancer Cells
Authors: Marullo Rossella , Rutherford Sarah C. , Revuelta Maria V. , Zamponi Nahuel , Culjkovic-Kraljacic Biljana , Kotlov Nikita , Di Siervi Nicolás , Lara-Garcia Juan , Allan John N. , Ruan Jia , Furman Richard R. , Chen Zhengming , Shore Tsiporah B. , Phillips Adrienne A. , Mayer Sebastian , Hsu Jingmei , van Besien Koen , Leonard John P. , Borden Katherine L.B. , Inghirami Giorgio , Martin Peter , Cerchietti Leandro
Published: January 2024

Supplementary Table 1
Supplementary Data from XPO1 Enables Adaptive Regulation of mRNA Export Required for Genotoxic Stress Tolerance in Cancer Cells
Authors: Marullo Rossella , Rutherford Sarah C. , Revuelta Maria V. , Zamponi Nahuel , Culjkovic-Kraljacic Biljana , Kotlov Nikita , Di Siervi Nicolás , Lara-Garcia Juan , Allan John N. , Ruan Jia , Furman Richard R. , Chen Zhengming , Shore Tsiporah B. , Phillips Adrienne A. , Mayer Sebastian , Hsu Jingmei , van Besien Koen , Leonard John P. , Borden Katherine L.B. , Inghirami Giorgio , Martin Peter , Cerchietti Leandro
Published: January 2024

Supplementary Figures and Tables