bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bound block elimination algorithm for accurate visibility computation in point cloud analysis
Authors: Widlak Adrian , Ozimek Pawel , Labedz Piotr , Orlof Jerzy
Published: July 2024

Visual representations of viewshed analysis play a crucial role in urban planning, environmental conservation, and defense strategies by visually assessing impacts and guiding planning decisions. The simulation and modeling of environmental changes necessitate processing extensive datasets, including satellite photos, panoramic images, and point clouds generated from LiDAR scans. In response to these demands, the authors propose an approach tailored to address visibility challenges in environments with highly detailed and extensive point sets. The presented method identifies visible and occluded areas from a predetermined set of viewpoints, departing from previous approaches reliant on orthogonal maps. The proposed solution is evaluated by comparing the results obtained from a TIN (Triangulated Irregular Network) surface, a traditional ray-tracing approach, and a viewshed obtained from the Digital Surface Model (DSM). Additionally, the authors present a simulation by overlaying the obtained results with real landscape photographs, modeling the accurate visibility determination in the point cloud analysis process.
Vggish for music/speech classification in radio broadcasting
Authors: Serrano Salvatore , Scarpa Marco Lucio , Serghini Omar
Published: July 2024

In the realm of audio signal processing, distinguishing between music and speech poses a significant challenge due to the nuanced similarities and complexities inherent in both domains. This study delves into this challenge by employing deep learning techniques to classify audio segments as either music or speech. Our approach involves utilizing the VGGish architecture and Mel-spectrograms as input to provide a rich representations of audio signals. These representations serve as inputs to our classification models, enabling us to discern intricate patterns characteristic of music and speech. We explore the efficacy of our models in this classification task, particularly focusing on their performance in various windowed audio segments. Through rigorous experimentation and evaluation, we observe notable results. Models exhibit remarkable accuracy, exceeding $96\%$ in distinguishing between music and speech. These findings underscore the effectiveness of deep learning models in discerning between music and speech. This work contributes to the understanding of deep learning applications in audio signal processing.
Ensemble models for predicting co concentrations: application and explainability in environmental monitoring in campania, italy
Authors: Campanile Lelio , Di Bonito Luigi Piero , Di Natale Francesco , Iacono Mauro
Published: July 2024

Monitoring of non-linear phenomena, such as pollution dynamics, which is the result of several combined factors and the evolution of environmental conditions, greatly benefits by AI tools; a larger benefit derives by the application of explainable solutions, which are capable of providing elements to understand those dynamics for better informed decisions. In this paper we discuss a case with real data in which a posteriori explanations have been produced after the application of ensemble models.
Expressing impact of vulnerabilities: an expert-filled dataset and vector changer framework for modelling multistage attacks, based on cve, cvss and cwe
Authors: Machalewski Tomasz , Szymanek Marcin , Czubak Adam , Turba Tomasz
Published: July 2024

In this work we focus on measuring and attributing impacts to vulnerabilities. We do it in a two-fold way. First, we introduce a concept of Vector Changer – a CVSS-based measure of how successful exploitation of a vulnerability could lead to usage of consecutive vulnerabilities. The consecutive nature being crucial for analysis of multi-stage attacks and creation of attack graphs. Secondly, we present an expert-filled dataset containing CVE-attributed: Technical Impacts, CVSS and Vector Changer. The dataset contains data for 22 CVEs, each filled separately by three experts (66 CVE datapoints total). Each vulnerability has been assessed on four increasing levels of information availability. Finally, we present a lookup table that enables easy attribution of Vector Changers to vulnerabilities. We present initial findings for our dataset and efficiency of our lookup table in respect to the formulated dataset.
Trazas fósiles marinas someras de la Formación Furada, Silúrico-Devónico de Asturias, España
Authors: Ornia Mateo , Buatois Luis A. , Mángano M. Gabriela , Thue Katherine , Fernández-Martínez Javier , Marcos Alberto
Published: July 2024

En los acantilados entre las playas de Munielles y Bahínas aflora la Formación Areniscas de Furada (Formación Furada), la cual marca el tránsito entre el Silúrico y el Devónico. Estos depósitos se acumularon en un ambiente marino somero afectado por sedimentación episódica, en parte como resultado de tempestades. Sobre la base del estudio de material en colecciones y nuevo trabajo de campo, se identifican, describen e ilustran 36 icnotaxones distintos: Arenicolites isp., Asterosoma ludwigae, Bergaueria hemispherica, Bifungites munizi, Chondrites isp., Cruziana acacencis, Cruziana quadrata, Curvolithus multiplex, Davichnia cantabrica, Dimorphichnus isp., Gordia marina, Halopoa imbricata, Heimdallia chatwini, Helicodromites mobilis, Helminthoidichnites tenuis, Helminthopsis abeli, Imponoglyphus isp., Lockeia siliquaria, Monomorphichnus isp. A, Monomorphichnus? isp., Nereites isp., Palaeophycus tubularis, Phycodes circinatum, Planolites montanus, Protovirgularia dichotoma, Psammichnites implexus, Psammichnites plummeri, Ptychoplasma excelsum, Rusophycus pudicus, Rusophycus isp. A e isp. B, Rosselia socialis, Skolithos isp., Teichichnus rectus, Trichophycus isp., y huellas indeterminadas. Las asociaciones documentan una amplia variedad de categorías etológicas correspondientes a diversos tipos tróficos, aunque con dominio de depositívoros y detritívoros. La asociación en su conjunto registra una diversa comunidad bentónica, si bien las suites muestran individualmente una icnodiversidad moderada a baja. La icnofauna estudiada ilustra un ejemplo silúrico-devónico de la Icnofacies de Cruziana.
Technological advancement in the development of monoclonal antibody therapies: Present, past, and future
Authors: Kasana Harit , Chander Harish , Mathur Ashwani
Published: July 2024

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have been a key player in the field of biopharmaceuticals for an extended period of time, especially in terms of approval and sales, and this dominance is expected to persist. In terms of a single product, mAb-based drugs are the most lucrative class of drugs, making them four of the top ten best-selling medications in terms of both revenue and market shares in 2022. It is estimated that by 2028, mAbs will be worth USD 420–460 billion. The therapeutic potential of mAbs has been recognized through hybridoma technology that was developed in the mid-1970s. Multiple approaches can currently be employed to generate chimeric, humanized, and fully human mAbs. These mAbs represent the cutting edge of biomedical research and offer excellent treatment options for a variety of disorders, such as severe asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, infectious diseases, and some types of cancers. Therefore, in this review article, insights regarding one of the fastest-growing biopharmaceutical categories, that is, therapeutic mAb products, and technological advancements in the production of mAbs by different in vitro technologies were discussed. In addition, the study provides a comprehensive overview of the authorized mAbs now available in the market, together with their specific targets, forms, and allowed applications.
Constituents of carbazole alkaloids and anti-cancer properties of extracts, mahanine, isomahanine, mahanimbine, and girinimbine from Bergera koenigii
Authors: Chan Eric Wei Chiang , Wong Siu Kuin
Published: July 2024

The new name of Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng. is Bergera koenigii L., the Indian curry leaf tree. Constituents of carbazole alkaloids from different plant parts of B. koenigii are compiled. Based on the number of reports, mahanimbine (MNB) and koenimbine are the two most dominant carbazole alkaloids from the leaf of B. koenigii. Carbazole alkaloids selected for review are mahanine (MN), isomahanine (IMN), MNB, and girinimbine (GNB) which are pyranocarbazoles as they possess the pyranocarbazole skeleton. MN, IMN, and MNB have 23 carbons and four methyl groups, while GNB has 18 carbons and three methyl groups. The anti-cancer properties of extracts and carbazole alkaloids from B. koenigii are tabulated with information on cancer types, cancer cell lines, effects, and mechanisms. Other pharmacological properties are briefly mentioned. Findings on the anti-cancer properties of extracts and carbazole alkaloids that will generate interest for further research are included as concluding remarks. Eight areas for future research were suggested.
Single-molecule analysis reveals the phosphorylation of FLS2 governs its spatiotemporal dynamics and immunity
Authors: Cui Yaning , Qian Hongping , Yin Jinhuan , Xu Changwen , Luo Pengyun , Zhang Xi , Yu Meng , Su Bodan , Li Xiaojuan , Lin Jinxing
Published: July 2024

The Arabidopsis thaliana FLAGELLIN-SENSITIVE2 (FLS2), a typical receptor kinase, recognizes the conserved 22 amino acid sequence in the N-terminal region of flagellin (flg22) to initiate plant defense pathways, which was intensively studied in the past decades. However, the dynamic regulation of FLS2 phosphorylation at the plasma membrane after flg22 recognition needs further elucidation. Through single-particle tracking, we demonstrated that upon flg22 treatment the phosphorylation of Ser-938 in FLS2 impacts its spatiotemporal dynamics and lifetime. Following Förster resonance energy transfer-fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy and protein proximity indexes assays revealed that flg22 treatment increased the co-localization of GFP-tagged FLS2/FLS2S938D but not FLS2S938A with AtRem1.3-mCherry, a sterol-rich lipid marker, indicating that the phosphorylation of FLS2S938 affects FLS2 sorting efficiency to AtRem1.3-associated nanodomains. Importantly, we found that the phosphorylation of Ser-938 enhanced flg22-induced FLS2 internalization and immune responses, demonstrating that the phosphorylation may activate flg22-triggered immunity through partitioning FLS2 into functional AtRem1.3-associated nanodomains, which fills the gap between the FLS2S938 phosphorylation and FLS2-mediated immunity.
Antigenic drift and subtype interference shape A(H3N2) epidemic dynamics in the United States
Authors: Perofsky Amanda C , Huddleston John , Hansen Chelsea , Barnes John R , Rowe Thomas , Xu Xiyan , Kondor Rebecca , Wentworth David E , Lewis Nicola , Whittaker Lynne , Ermetal Burcu , Harvey Ruth , Galiano Monica , Daniels Rodney Stuart , McCauley John W , Fujisaki Seiichiro , Nakamura Kazuya , Kishida Noriko , Watanabe Shinji , Hasegawa Hideki , Sullivan Sheena G , Barr Ian G , Subbarao Kanta , Krammer Florian , Bedford Trevor , Viboud Cécile
Published: July 2024

Influenza viruses continually evolve new antigenic variants, through mutations in epitopes of their major surface proteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Antigenic drift potentiates the reinfection of previously infected individuals, but the contribution of this process to variability in annual epidemics is not well understood. Here we link influenza A(H3N2) virus evolution to regional epidemic dynamics in the United States during 1997—2019. We integrate phenotypic measures of HA antigenic drift and sequence-based measures of HA and NA fitness to infer antigenic and genetic distances between viruses circulating in successive seasons. We estimate the magnitude, severity, timing, transmission rate, age-specific patterns, and subtype dominance of each regional outbreak and find that genetic distance based on broad sets of epitope sites is the strongest evolutionary predictor of A(H3N2) virus epidemiology. Increased HA and NA epitope distance between seasons correlates with larger, more intense epidemics, higher transmission, greater A(H3N2) subtype dominance, and a greater proportion of cases in adults relative to children, consistent with increased population susceptibility. Based on random forest models, A(H1N1) incidence impacts A(H3N2) epidemics to a greater extent than viral evolution, suggesting that subtype interference is a major driver of influenza A virus infection dynamics, presumably via heterosubtypic cross-immunity.
Impact statement:
Antigenic drift in influenza’s major surface proteins – hemagglutinin and neuraminidase – contributes to variability in epidemic magnitude across seasons but is less influential than subtype interference in shaping annual outbreaks.
Shared structure facilitates working memory of multiple sequences
Authors: Huang Qiaoli , Luo Huan
Published: July 2024

Daily experiences often involve the processing of multiple sequences, yet storing them challenges the limited capacity of working memory (WM). To achieve efficient memory storage, relational structures shared by sequences would be leveraged to reorganize and compress information. Here, participants memorized a sequence of items with different colors and spatial locations and later reproduced the full color and location sequences one after another. Crucially, we manipulated the consistency between location and color sequence trajectories. First, sequences with consistent trajectories demonstrate improved memory performance and a trajectory correlation between reproduced color and location sequences. Second, sequences with consistent trajectories show neural reactivation of common trajectories, and display spontaneous replay of color sequences when recalling locations. Finally, neural reactivation correlates with WM behavior. Our findings suggest that a shared common structure is leveraged for the storage of multiple sequences through compressed encoding and neural replay, together facilitating efficient information organization in WM.
Targeting plasmid-encoded proteins that contain immunoglobulin-like domains to combat antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Prieto Alejandro , Miró Luïsa , Margolles Yago , Bernabeu Manuel , Salguero David , Merino Susana , Tomas Joan , Corbera Juan Alberto , Perez-Bosque Anna , Huttener Mario , Fernández Luis Ángel , Juarez Antonio
Published: July 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to human health. Although vaccines have been developed to combat AMR, it has proven challenging to associate specific vaccine antigens with AMR. Bacterial plasmids play a crucial role in the transmission of AMR. Our recent research has identified a group of bacterial plasmids (specifically, IncHI plasmids) that encode large molecular mass proteins containing bacterial immunoglobulin-like domains. These proteins are found on the external surface of the bacterial cells, such as in the flagella or conjugative pili. In this study, we show that these proteins are antigenic and can protect mice from infection caused by an AMR Salmonella strain harboring one of these plasmids. Furthermore, we successfully generated nanobodies targeting these proteins, that were shown to interfere with the conjugative transfer of IncHI plasmids. Considering that these proteins are also encoded in other groups of plasmids, such as IncA/C and IncP2, targeting them could be a valuable strategy in combating AMR infections caused by bacteria harboring different groups of AMR plasmids. Since the selected antigens are directly linked to AMR itself, the protective effect extends beyond specific microorganisms to include all those carrying the corresponding resistance plasmids.
An Advanced Bacterial Single-cell RNA-seq Reveals Biofilm Heterogeneity
Authors: Pu Yingying , Yan Xiaodan , Liao Hebin , Wang Chenyi , Huang Chun , Zhang Wei , Guo Chunming
Published: July 2024

In contrast to mammalian cells, bacterial cells lack mRNA polyadenylated tails, presenting a hurdle in isolating mRNA amidst the prevalent rRNA during single-cell RNA-seq. This study introduces a novel method, Ribosomal RNA-derived cDNA Depletion (RiboD), seamlessly integrated into the PETRI-seq technique, yielding RiboD-PETRI. This innovative approach offers a cost-effective, equipment-free, and high-throughput solution for bacterial single-cell RNA sequencing. By efficiently eliminating rRNA reads and substantially enhancing mRNA detection rates (up to 92%), our method enables precise exploration of bacterial population heterogeneity. Applying RiboD-PETRI to investigate biofilm heterogeneity, distinctive subpopulations marked by unique genes within biofilms were successfully identified. Notably, Pdel, a marker for the cell-surface attachment subpopulation, was observed to elevate cyclic diguanylate (c-di-GMP) levels, promoting persister cell formation. Thus, we address a persistent challenge in bacterial single-cell RNA-seq regarding rRNA abundance, exemplifying the utility of this method in exploring biofilm heterogeneity. These findings advance our understanding of biofilm biology and offer insights for targeted therapeutic strategies against persistent bacterial infections.
Mapping Serotonergic Dynamics using Drug-Modulated Molecular Connectivity
Authors: Ionescu Tudor M , Amend Mario , Hafiz Rabikul , Maurer Andreas , Biswal Bharat Biswal , Wehrl Hans F , Herfert Kristina
Published: July 2024

Understanding the complex workings of the brain is one of the most significant challenges in neuroscience, providing insights into the healthy brain, diseases, and the effects of potential therapeutics. A major challenge in this field is the limitations of traditional brain imaging techniques, which often deliver only a part of the complex puzzle of brain function. Our research employs a novel approach named “Molecular Connectivity” (MC), which merges the strengths of various imaging methods to offer a comprehensive view of how molecules interact within the brain and affect its function.This innovative technique bridges the gap between functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), known for its ability to monitor brain activity by tracking blood flow, and positron emission tomography (PET), which can depict specific molecular changes. By integrating these methods, we can better understand the far-reaching impacts of drugs on the brain. Our study focuses on the application of dynamic [
11
C]DASB PET scans to map the distribution of serotonin transporters, a key player in regulating mood and emotions, and examines how these are altered following the use of methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), commonly known as ecstasy.Through a detailed analysis comparing MC with traditional measures of brain connectivity, we uncover significant patterns that closely align with physiological changes. Our results reveal clear changes in molecular connectivity after a single dose of MDMA, establishing a direct link between the drug’s effects on serotonin transporter occupancy and changes in the brain’s functional network.This work not only offers a novel methodology for the in-depth study of brain function at the molecular level but also opens new pathways for understanding how drugs modulate brain activity.
PIM kinase control of CD8 T cell protein synthesis and cell trafficking
Authors: Marchingo Julia M , Spinelli Laura , Pathak Shalini , Cantrell Doreen A
Published: July 2024

Integration of a large network of kinase signalling pathways co-ordinates changes in the transcription, translation and metabolic events required for T cell activation and differentiation. The present study explores the role of the Serine/Threonine kinases PIM1 and PIM2 in controlling murine CD8 T lymphocyte antigen receptor-mediated activation and differentiation in response to the cytokines Interleukin 2 (IL-2) or IL-15. We show that PIM kinases are dispensable for the differentiation programs controlled by the antigen-receptor and IL-15. There is however a selective role for the PIM kinases in the context of IL-2 regulation of CD8 T cell fate. One key insight was that the PIM kinases controlled the migratory capabilities of effector CD8 T cells, with
Pim1
/
Pim2
-deficient CD8 T cells unable to fully switch off the naïve T cell chemokine and adhesion receptor program during effector differentiation. PIM kinases were also needed for IL-2 to sustain high expression of the glucose transporters SLC2A1 and SLC2A3 and to maintain activity of the nutrient sensing kinase mTORc1. Strikingly, PIM kinases did not have a dominant impact on IL-2-driven transcriptional programs but rather selectively modulated protein synthesis to shape cytotoxic T cell proteomes. This study reveals a selective role of PIM kinases in IL-2 control of CD8 T cells and highlights how regulated changes in protein synthesis can impact T cell phenotypes.
Direct lineage conversion of postnatal mouse cortical astrocytes to oligodendrocyte lineage cells
Authors: Bajohr Justine , Scott Erica Y , Olfat Arman , Sadria Mehrshad , Lee Kevin , Fahim Maria , Taha Hiba T , Lozano Casasbuenas Daniela , Derham Ann , Yuzwa Scott A , Bader Gary D , Faiz Maryam
Published: July 2024

Oligodendrocyte lineage cells (OLCs) are lost in many CNS diseases. Here, we investigate the generation of new OLCs via ectopic expression of
Sox10
,
Olig2
or
Nkx6.2
in mouse postnatal astrocytes. Using stringent analyses including, Aldh1l1-astrocyte fate mapping and live cell imaging we confirm that
Sox10
and
Olig2
, but not
Nkx6.2
, directly convert Aldh1l1
pos
astrocytes to MBP+ and PDGFRα+ induced OLCs (iOLCs), respectively. With single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) we uncover the molecular signatures of iOLCs. Transcriptomic analysis of
Sox10
- and control cultures over time reveals a clear trajectory from astrocytes to iOLCs. Finally, perturbation models CellOracle and Fatecode support the idea that
Sox10
drives cells towards a terminal iOLC fate. Altogether, this multidimensional analysis shows bonafide conversion of astrocytes to iOLCs using
Sox10
or
Olig2
and provides a foundation for astrocyte DLR strategies to promote OLC repair.
Salmonids elicit an acute behavioral response to heterothermal environments
Authors: Naudascher Robert , Brizzolara Stefano , Slomka Jonasz , Boes Robert M , Holzner Markus , Silva Luiz GM , Stocker Roman
Published: July 2024

Most fish species are ectothermic and rely on behavioral strategies to control their body temperature in heterothermal environments. Both thermotaxis and thermokinesis have been suggested as important underlying mechanisms. However, to what extent these behaviors allow fish to respond to rapid (timescales of minutes) and strong thermal disturbances, like those caused by anthropogenic water releases into natural freshwater systems, is poorly understood. Here, we quantify this response for a salmonid species with a novel laboratory approach coupled with image-based tracking. We exposed brown trout parr (
Salmo trutta
), acclimated to 12 °C, to rapidly forming cold- and warm-water interfaces with temperatures ranging from 4 to 20 °C. We found that fish actively avoided colder water (≤8 °C) through a rapid response that combined thermotaxis and thermokinesis. In contrast, fish did not avoid warmer water and frequently crossed interfaces having temperature contrasts of up to 8 °C. This study shows that brown trout parr swiftly deploy multiple behavioral strategies to minimize exposure to cold water and take advantage of warm water, illustrating their capability to cope with rapidly occurring thermal alterations.
Switching perspective: Comparing ground-level and bird’s-eye views for bees navigating clutter
Authors: Sonntag Annkathrin , Sauzet Odile , Lihoreau Mathieu , Egelhaaf Martin , Bertrand Olivier
Published: July 2024

Animals navigating in three dimensions encounter different perspectives of their world, often transitioning from bird’s eye views at higher altitudes to frog’s-eye views closer to the ground. How they integrate this information to pinpoint a goal location is virtually unknown. Here we tested the ability of bumblebees to use both types of views when homing in a cluttered environment. Our combined modelling and experimental approach examined various views for goal location in cluttered settings. Whereas, bird’s-eye views performed best in simulations of current snapshot homing models, behavioural experiments revealed that bumblebees predominantly relied on frog’s eye views when pinpointing nest entrances in cluttered environments. These findings reveal the limitations of snapshot-homing models and suggest that bumblebees use a combination of navigational tools to successfully find their way home in cluttered environments. This is not only relevant for understanding bee movements, but also for other animals and humans navigating in 3D as well as the development of technologies inspired by natural systems, such as autonomous flying robots.
Compact CPW-fed Antenna with Controllable WLAN Band-rejection for Microwave Imaging
Authors: Mokhtari M. , Oussaid R. , Mansoul A. , Challal M.
Published: July 2024

This work presents the design and experimental validation of a compact frequency reconfigurable coplanar waveguide (CPW)-fed ultra-wideband (UWB) antenna with a capability to on-demand reject WLAN frequencies within the range of 5.15 GHz to 5.85 GHz, specifically tailored for applications in microwave imaging. The design and experimental results are presented and discussed. The bandwidth enhancement is obtained by using T-shaped slots between the feedline and the ground plane of the antenna, and the WLAN band is rejected by using an open loop resonator (OLR) placed on the antenna backside. Switching between UWB with and without WLAN band-notched modes is performed using a PIN diode and a bias circuit. The simulation results corroborate well with the experimental data and clearly showed an interesting frequency reconfigurable behavior for use in microwave imaging applications. An antenna performance simulation and analysis model is presented for breast tumor detection, and the tumor effect has been noticed for both operating modes of the antenna.
A methodological and reporting quality assessment of systematic reviews/meta-analyses on exercise interventions for cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Zang Wanli , Zou Qinghai , Xiao Ningkun , Fang Mingqing , Wang Su , Chen Jingjing
Published: July 2024

Objective

To assess the methodological quality of meta-analytic literature on exercise interventions for cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and the certainty of evidence for its outcome indicators, and to provide clinicians and researchers with more reliable data for making decisions.

Methods

Meta-analytic literature related to the effect of exercise intervention on cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment was searched through PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, Physiotherapy Evidence Database and Web of Science, all with a search period frame of each database until June 1, 2024. The AMSTAR2 scale was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the included studies.

Results

Seventeen meta-analyses were included. The AMSTAR2 scale evaluation results showed that there was one medium-quality studies (5.55%), seven low-quality studies (38.88%), and 10 very low-quality studies (55.55%). Methodological deficiencies included failure to prepare a plan and provide a registration number, literature screening, data extraction, reasons for exclusion not described in detail, poor implementation process for systematic evaluation, and failure to describe the source of funding for the included studies or relevant conflicts of interest.

Conclusion

The overall methodological quality of the meta-analytic literature is low, and the certainty of evidence is low. We encourage the conduction of high-quality randomized trials to generate stronger evidence. Subsequent systematic reviews can then synthesize this evidence to inform future research and clinical guidelines.
Análise prática de hélices toroidais prototipadas em manufatura aditiva por estereolitografia
Authors: Silva Filho Claudio Duarte , Cisneros Edry Antonio Garcia , Ono Ingrid Mayumi Fonseca , Gomes Raimundo Cláudio Souza , Ferreira Sobrinho Angilberto Muniz , Cardoso Fábio de Sousa , Albuquerque Júnior Fábio Arozo de , Torné Israel Gondres
Published: July 2024

Hélices são partes comuns em diversos dispositivos do dia a dia, como aviões, ventiladores e drones.  Mediante o movimento de rotação, esses equipamentos são capazes de deslocar uma quantidade de ar significativa tornando possível operações como voo de aeronaves e refrigeração de ambientes, no entanto, as suas características de funcionamento ne, sempre estão acorde as regulamentações brasileiras sobre tudo os referentes ao nível de ruido. Nesse contexto varios autores (Zakaria et al, 2020); (Jiang et al, 2022); (Chien et al, 2022) e (Gabriel & Simion, 2023) coincidem em tar estudos analisando a incidência de vários fatores como potência, geometrias das hélices assim como o uso da hélice de tipo toroidal em drones. Neste artigo é apresentada resultados que investigan a eficácia das hélices toroidais, comparando-as com hélices comerciais em "cooler fans" de computadores, focando especialmente na redução de ruido. O objetivo é atender às normas regulamentadoras de níveis de ruído em ambientes laborais e habitados.   Utilizando    uma impressora 3D do tipo SLA, foram fabricadas hélices toroidais com perfil aerodinâmico NACA 4412, testadas em diferentes rotações para medir vazão e ruído. Os resultados salientam a necessidade de aprimorar a modelagem e simulação dessas hélices utilizando ferramentas de fluidodinâmica computacional para otimizar parâmetros como área de superfície e comprimento da corda do perfil aerodinâmico; o que ajuda a entender que apesar do potencial das hélices toroidais para a redução de ruído, estudos futuros devem focar em modelagem e simulação avançadas para alcançar um desempenho significativo.
Intimate Partner Violence and Women's Participation in the Labour Market in Cameroon: An Analysis from Demographic and Health Survey of 2018
Authors: Agnamen Augustin , Tchakounté Dimitri , Guiole Raoul Michel
Published: July 2024

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a major public health and employment outcomes concern around the world. The relationship between IPV and economic participation is fundamental to understand barriers to women's empowerment and achieving gender equality and the economic independence from employment income could reduce the risk of conjugal violence by predicting family bargaining theories. Therefore, this paper aims to analyze the association between Intimate partner violence on the participation of women in the labour market and their access to employment in the form of being a wage worker, self-employed or unpaid family worker and using data from the Demographic and Health Data Survey carry out in 2018. Intimate partner violence is apprehended from its three dimensions (physical, emotional and sexual violence) Empirically, IPV is apprehended from its three dimensions (physical, emotional and sexual violence) and the instrumental variables method was used The estimated results of the iv probit regression model suggest that, IPV has a positive effect on women's possession of and access to paid employment, it is statistically significant after controlling for simultaneous causality between employment status and IPV. On the other hand, women participating in the labor market are exposed to IPV of 313.7 ‰, 11.0% of women's possession of a job paid in cash or in kind and 40% of working for a family member which confirms the family negotiation model. Physical violence from an intimate partner is the most widespread, around 56% for women who declared participating in the labor market and having paid employment and 61.67% of those working with a family member. The results presented reflect important information in a way that IPVs do not affect women's employment. Several motivations justify men's recourse to violence and the mechanisms involved can act either individually or simultaneously. One preventable condition is the reduction in time combined with violent confluence which can doubly reduce violence and give rise to financial autonomy.
Integrated Nutrient Management of Papaya (Carica papaya L.): Application of Microbial Consortium Enriched Organic Manures for Yield and Fruit Quality Enhancement
Authors: Bindu B. , Renjan B.
Published: July 2024

An experiment was undertaken to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on growth, yield and quality of papaya under Kerala conditions. The trial was conducted in RBD. Papaya variety used for the study was Surya with ten treatments. The results revealed that the applications of microbial consortium enriched organic manures in papaya plants (NPK (25 %) as PGPR mix-1 enriched vermicompost along with N, P and K 75% of recommended dose of fertilizers fertilizers ( 240 N: 240 P2O5: 480 K2O (g plant-1) + 10 kg FYM) resulted in the highest number of fruit production, enhanced fruit weight , total fruit yield per plant. It also resulted in the production of fruits with highest fruit length, girth, pulp percentage and flesh thickness. Fruit quality characters like high TSS, less acidity, higher carotenoid content, ascorbic acid content, highest total sugar content and reducing sugar content were enhanced in papaya. Organoleptic characters of fruit were also enhanced by adopting integrated nutrient management in papaya . Papaya being an important fruit crop of Kerala gaining importance nowadays. Integrated nutrient management (INM) involves efficient and judicious supply of all major and micro components of plant nutrients including local available resources on sustainable basis. Papaya is known to be a heavy feeder of nutrients (NPK) and information regarding the effect of INM is more important
Real‐Time Detection of Protein Trafficking with High‐Throughput Flow Cytometry (HTFC) and Fluorogen‐Activating Protein (FAP) Base Biosensor
Authors: Wu Yang , Tapia Phillip H. , Jarvik Jonathan , Waggoner Alan S. , Sklar Larry A.
Published: January 2014

We combined fluorogen‐activating protein (FAP) technology with high‐throughput flow cytometry to detect real‐time protein trafficking to and from the plasma membrane in living cells. The hybrid platform allows drug discovery for trafficking receptors, such as G protein–coupled receptors, receptor tyrosine kinases, and ion channels, which were previously not suitable for high‐throughput screening by flow cytometry. The system has been validated using the β2‐adrenergic receptor (β2AR) system and extended to other GPCRs. When a chemical library containing ∼1200 off‐patent drugs was screened against cells expressing FAP‐tagged β2AR, all known β2AR active ligands in the library were successfully identified, together with a few compounds that were later confirmed to regulate receptor internalization in a nontraditional manner. The unexpected discovery of new ligands by this approach indicates the potential of using this protocol for GPCR de‐orphanization. In addition, screens of multiplexed targets promise improved efficiency with minor protocol modification. Curr. Protoc. Cytom. 67:9.43.1‐9.43.11. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
OpenSource Lab‐on‐a‐Chip Physiometer for Accelerated Zebrafish Embryo Biotests
Authors: Akagi Jin , Hall Chris J. , Crosier Kathryn E. , Cooper Jonathan M. , Crosier Philip S. , Wlodkowic Donald
Published: January 2014

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryo assays have recently come into the spotlight as convenient experimental models in both biomedicine and ecotoxicology. As a small aquatic model organism, zebrafish embryo assays allow for rapid physiological, embryo‐, and genotoxic tests of drugs and environmental toxins that can be simply dissolved in water. This protocol describes prototyping and application of an innovative, miniaturized, and polymeric chip‐based device capable of immobilizing a large number of living fish embryos for real‐time and/or time‐lapse microscopic examination. The device provides a physical address designation to each embryo during analysis, continuous perfusion of medium, and post‐analysis specimen recovery. Miniaturized embryo array is a new concept of immobilization and real‐time drug perfusion of multiple individual and developing zebrafish embryos inside the mesofluidic device. The OpenSource device presented in this protocol is particularly suitable to perform accelerated fish embryo biotests in ecotoxicology and phenotype‐based pharmaceutical screening. Curr. Protoc. Cytom. 67:9.44.1‐9.44.16. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A Review of Reagents for Fluorescence Microscopy of Cellular Compartments and Structures, Part III: Reagents for Actin, Tubulin, Cellular Membranes, and Whole Cell and Cytoplasm
Authors: Kilgore Jason A. , Dolman Nick J. , Davidson Michael W.
Published: January 2014

Non‐antibody commercial fluorescent reagents for imaging of cytoskeletal structures have been limited primarily to tubulin and actin, with the main factor in choice based mainly on whether cells are live or fixed and permeabilized. A wider range of options exist for cell membrane dyes, and the choice of reagent primarily depends on the preferred localization in the cell (i.e., all membranes or only the plasma membrane) and usage (i.e., whether the protocol involves fixation and permeabilization). For whole‐cell or cytoplasmic imaging, the choice of reagent is determined mostly by the length of time that the cells need to be visualized (hours or days) and by fixation status. Presented here is a discussion on choosing commercially available reagents for these cellular structures, with an emphasis on use for microscopic imaging, with a featured reagent for each structure, a recommended protocol, troubleshooting guide, and example image. Curr. Protoc. Cytom. 67:12:32.1‐12:32.17. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Biogeochemical cycling of dissolved zinc along the GEOTRACES South Atlantic transect GA10 at 40°S
Authors: Wyatt N. J. , Milne A. , Woodward E. M. S. , Rees A. P. , Browning T. J. , Bouman H. A. , Worsfold P. J. , Lohan M. C.
Published: January 2014

The biogeochemical cycle of zinc (Zn) in the South Atlantic, at 40°S, was investigated as part of the UK GEOTRACES program. To date there is little understanding of the supply of Zn, an essential requirement for phytoplankton growth, to this highly productive region. Vertical Zn profiles displayed nutrient‐like distributions with distinct gradients associated with the water masses present. Surface Zn concentrations are among the lowest reported for the world's oceans (< 50 pM). A strong Zn‐Si linear relationship was observed (Zn (nM) = 0.065 Si (μM), r2 = 0.97, n = 460). Our results suggest that the use of a global Zn‐Si relationship would lead to an underestimation of dissolved Zn in deeper waters of the South Atlantic. By utilizing Si* and a new tracer Zn* our data indicate that the preferential removal of Zn in the Southern Ocean prevented a direct return path for dissolved Zn to the surface waters of the South Atlantic at 40°S and potentially the thermocline waters of the South Atlantic subtropical gyre. The importance of Zn for phytoplankton growth was evaluated using the Zn‐soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) relationship. We hypothesize that the low Zn concentrations in the South Atlantic may select for phytoplankton cells with a lower Zn requirement. In addition, a much deeper kink at ~ 500m in the Zn:SRP ratio was observed compared to other oceanic regions.
Deformation of basaltic shield volcanoes under cointrusive stress permutations
Authors: Chaput Marie , Famin Vincent , Michon Laurent
Published: January 2014

We performed a microstructural study of Piton des Neiges (La Réunion Island) to understand how intrusions and stresses control each other in basaltic volcanoes. Our study reveals that three perpendicular intrusions trends coexisted during the 2 Myr history of the volcano: a N120–140°E rift zone, a perpendicular dike trend, and swarms of subhorizontal intrusions hereafter called “sill zones”. Independently, the inversion of fault‐slip data shows that incompatible paleostress fields recurrently occurred along with the intrusions: a dominant NNE‐SSW extension, a perpendicular extension, and strike‐slip or compressional regimes. The orientations of paleostresses are consistent with the orientations of the three perpendicular intrusion populations. We propose that stress accumulation in the edifice under the effect of repeated magma injections resulted in permutations of the principal axes of the stress tensor, causing a reorientation of subsequent intrusions. Stress permutations were cyclical. Each cycle started with dike injections in an extensional stress field, reducing the deviatoric stress and switching the axes of principal stresses, and finished with sill intrusions in a compressional stress field. Sill zones acted as detachment planes, restoring the extensional stress field and initiating a new cycle of permutations. Our model of stress permutations is in agreement with the pattern of eruptions and deformation observed at Piton de la Fournaise. In contrast with the Hawaiian model of spreading on a décollement, stress permutations in La Réunion's volcanoes imply that the basal deformation of the edifices, if any, is not sufficient to compensate the reduction of deviatoric stress caused by intrusions.
Prediction and uncertainty of Hurricane Sandy (2012) explored through a real‐time cloud‐permitting ensemble analysis and forecast system assimilating airborne Doppler radar observations
Authors: Munsell Erin B. , Zhang Fuqing
Published: January 2014

Utilizing the Pennsylvania State University (PSU) real‐time convection‐permitting hurricane analysis and forecasting system (WRF‐EnKF) that assimilates airborne Doppler radar observations, the sensitivity and uncertainty of forecasts initialized several days prior to landfall of Hurricane Sandy (2012) are assessed. The performance of the track and intensity forecasts of both the deterministic and ensemble forecasts by the PSU WRF‐EnKF system show significant skill and are comparable to or better than forecasts produced by operational dynamical models, even at lead times of 4–5 days prior to landfall. Many of the ensemble members correctly capture the interaction of Sandy with an approaching midlatitude trough, which precedes Sandy's forecasted landfall in the Mid‐Atlantic region of the United States. However, the ensemble reveals considerable forecast uncertainties in the prediction of Sandy. For example, in the ensemble forecast initialized at 0000 UTC 26 October 2012, 10 of the 60 members do not predict a United States landfall. Using ensemble composite and sensitivity analyses, the essential dynamics and initial condition uncertainties that lead to forecast divergence among the members in tracks and precipitation are examined. It is observed that uncertainties in the environmental steering flow are the most impactful factor on the divergence of Sandy's track forecasts, and its subsequent interaction with the approaching midlatitude trough. Though the midlatitude system does not strongly influence the final position of Sandy, differences in the timing and location of its interactions with Sandy lead to considerable differences in rainfall forecasts, especially with respect to heavy precipitation over land.
Growth Actuated Bending and Twisting of Single Crystals
Authors: Shtukenberg Alexander G. , Punin Yurii O. , Gujral Ankit , Kahr Bart
Published: January 2014

Crystals of a variety of substances including elements, minerals, simple salts, organic molecular crystals, and high polymers forgo long‐range translational order by twisting and bending as they grow. These deviations have been observed in crystals ranging in size from nanometers to centimeters. How and why so many materials choose dramatic non‐crystallographic distortions is analyzed, with an emphasis on crystal chemistries that give rise to stresses operating either on surfaces of crystallites or within the bulk.
Influence of gelling properties on protein imprinted agarose gel membrane
Authors: Feng Hanbo , Mao Xuan , Chu Bin , Xie Chunlan
Published: January 2014

A method based on molecular imprinting technique was presented for preparing protein‐imprinted agarose gel membrane (AGM) under moderate conditions, and the influencing factors such as molecular weights and modified chemical groups on the adsorption ability and selectivity of AGMs were investigated. The agaroses used for AGMs were prepared through ultrasonic degradation, oxidation degradation, gel‐melting method, and sulfation, respectively. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) and hemoglobin were selectively recognized on AGMs. Results showed that the molecular weight was the most crucial influencing factor for the protein recognition ability of AGMs. The lower and upper limit of molecular weight was 100 and 130 kDa, respectively, where the AGMs could maintain both good mechanical strength and high recognition ability, with K value around 4.0. The enhancement of ionic strength could make the imprinting effect disappeared even when the concentration of salt was as low as 2 mmol/L. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40323.
Early warning information seeking in the 2009 Victorian Bushfires
Authors: Choo Chun Wei , Nadarajah Indrani
Published: January 2014

This study examines early warning from the users' perspective as a special category of information seeking. Specifically, we look at the 2009 Victorian bushfires in Australia as an instructive case of early warning information seeking. The bushfires, the worst in Australia's recorded history, were unique in its ferocity and damage caused, but also in the amount of data and research that was generated. We analyzed the affected residents' information needs, seeking and use in terms of their cognitive, affective, and situational dimensions. We found that residents wanted information that would act as a “trigger for action,” provide timely warning, and indicate clearly fire severity. Nearly two thirds of residents surveyed did not receive an official warning. Almost half first found out that the bushfire was in their area through personal observation of smoke, embers, or flames. We suggest that a form of normalcy bias may have been at work during information seeking, causing people to interpret their situations as “normal” even when disaster warnings have been issued. Although the authorities had adopted a “Stay or Go” policy to help residents use warning information to decide between staying to defend their property or leaving early, the policy's effectiveness was undermined by information challenges.
Stepwise Model Evaluation in Simulated Moving‐Bed Separation of Ketamine
Authors: Câmara Leôncio Diógenes T.
Published: January 2014

A stepwise model with lumped mass transfer kinetics (SW‐LM) is applied for chromatographic column modeling in simulated moving bed (SMB) separation of a racemic mixture of the anesthetic ketamine. The SW‐LM model can easily represent the SMB separation process of ketamine considering the retention factors equal to the equilibrium constants of the R‐ and S‐enantiomers. The equilibrium data was utilized only in the previous column characterization for the determination of mass transfer kinetic parameters used later in the SMB design. The SW‐LM model achieves similar transient results of enantiomer concentrations in the extract and raffinate compared to a robust equilibrium dispersive model.