Search Results (324)

In Brazil, Plasmodium infections in non-human primates (NHPs) have been associated with P. simium and P. brasilianum, which are morphologically and genetically similar to the human-infecting species P. vivax and P. malariae, respectively. Surveillance and monitoring of wild NHPs are crucial for understanding the distribution of these parasites and assessing the risk of zoonotic transmission. This study aimed to detect the presence of Plasmodium spp. genetic material in Platyrrhini primates from 47 municipalities in the states of Bahia and Minas Gerais. The animals were captured using Tomahawk-type live traps baited with fruit or immobilized with tranquilizer darts. Free-ranging individuals were chemically restrained via inhalation anesthesia using VetBag^® or intramuscular anesthesia injection. Blood samples were collected from the femoral vein. A total of 298 blood and tissue samples were collected from 10 primate species across five genera: Alouatta caraya (25), Alouatta guariba clamitans (1), Callicebus melanochir (1), Callithrix geoffroyi (28), Callithrix jacchus (4), Callithrix kuhlii (31), Callithrix penicillata (175), Callithrix spp. hybrids (15), Leontopithecus chrysomelas (16), Sapajus robustus (1), and Sapajus xanthosthernos (1). Molecular diagnosis was performed using a nested PCR targeting the 18S small subunit ribosomal RNA (18S SSU rRNA) gene, followed by sequencing. Of the 298 samples analyzed, only one (0.3%) from Bahia tested positive for Plasmodium brasilianum/P. malariae. This represents the first detection of this parasite in a free-living C. geoffroyi in Brazil. These findings highlight the importance of continued surveillance of Plasmodium infections in NHPs to identify regions at risk for zoonotic transmission. Full article

Cities house more than half of the world’s population and are responsible for more than 70% of the world anthropogenic CO₂ emissions. Therefore, quantifications of emissions from major cities, which are only less than a hundred intense emitting spots across the globe, should allow us to monitor changes in global fossil fuel CO₂ emissions in an independent, objective way. The study adopted a high-spatiotemporal-resolution regional assimilation method using satellite observation data and atmospheric transport model WRF-Chem/DART to assimilate CO₂ concentration and fluxes in Lisbon, a major city in Portugal. It is based on Zhang’s assimilation method, combined OCO-2 XCO₂ retrieval data, ODIAC 1 km anthropogenic CO₂ emissions and Ensemble Adjustment Kalman Filter Assimilation. By employing three two-way nested domains in WRF-Chem, we refined the spatial resolution of the CO₂ concentrations and fluxes over Lisbon to 3 km. The spatiotemporal distribution characteristics and main driving factors of CO₂ concentrations and fluxes in Lisbon and its surrounding cities and countries were analyzed in March 2020, during the period affected by COVID-19 pandemic. The results showed that the monthly average CO₂ and XCO₂ concentrations in Lisbon were 420.66 ppm and 413.88 ppm, respectively, and the total flux was 0.50 Tg CO₂. From a wider perspective, the findings provide a scientific foundation for urban carbon emission management and policy-making. Full article

Underwater acoustic target recognition (UATR) is challenged by complex marine noise, scarce labeled data, and inadequate multi-scale feature extraction in conventional methods. This study proposes DART-MT, a semi-supervised framework that integrates a Dual Attention Parallel Residual Network Transformer with a mean teacher paradigm, enhanced by domain-specific prior knowledge. The architecture employs a Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) for localized feature refinement, a lightweight New Transformer Encoder for global context modeling, and a novel TriFusion Block to synergize spectral–temporal–spatial features through parallel multi-branch fusion, addressing the limitations of single-modality extraction. Leveraging the mean teacher framework, DART-MT optimizes consistency regularization to exploit unlabeled data, effectively mitigating class imbalance and annotation scarcity. Evaluations on the DeepShip and ShipsEar datasets demonstrate state-of-the-art accuracy: with 10% labeled data, DART-MT achieves 96.20% (DeepShip) and 94.86% (ShipsEar), surpassing baseline models by 7.2–9.8% in low-data regimes, while reaching 98.80% (DeepShip) and 98.85% (ShipsEar) with 90% labeled data. Under varying noise conditions (−20 dB to 20 dB), the model maintained a robust performance (F1-score: 92.4–97.1%) with 40% lower variance than its competitors, and ablation studies validated each module’s contribution (TriFusion Block alone improved accuracy by 6.9%). This research advances UATR by (1) resolving multi-scale feature fusion bottlenecks, (2) demonstrating the efficacy of semi-supervised learning in marine acoustics, and (3) providing an open-source implementation for reproducibility. In future work, we will extend cross-domain adaptation to diverse oceanic environments. Full article

Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and para-phenylenediamines (PPDs) are emerging classes of anthropogenic contaminants that are environmentally persistent (most often found in ground and surface water sources), bioaccumulative, and harmful to human health. These chemicals are currently regulated in the US by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Analysis of these contaminants is currently spearheaded by mass spectrometry (MS) coupled to liquid chromatography (LC) because of their high sensitivity and separation capabilities. Although effective, a major flaw in LC-MS analysis is its large consumption of solvents and the amount of time required for each experiment. Direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry (DART-MS) is a new technique that offers high sensitivity and permits rapid analysis with little to no sample preparation. Herein, we present the qualitative and quantitative analysis of PFASs and PPDs by high-resolution DART-MS, interfaced with ion mobility (IM) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) characterization, demonstrating the utility of this multidimensional approach for the fast separation and detection of environmental contaminants. Full article

Soft body armor (SBA) remains an essential component of first responder protection. However, most SBA design concepts do not adequately address the unique performance, morphological, and psychological needs of women as first responders. In this review, female-specific designs of ballistic-resistant panels, material systems, and SBA performance testing are critically examined. The paper also explores innovations in shaping and design techniques, including darting, dartless shape construction, modular assembly, and body scanning with CAD integration to create contoured and structurally stable panels with improved coverage, reduced bulk, and greater mobility. In addition, the review addresses broadly used and emerging dry textile fabrics and fiber-reinforced polymers, considering various innovations, such as 3D warp interlock weave, shear thickening fluid (STF) coating, nanomaterials, and smart composites that improve energy dissipation and impact tolerance without sacrificing flexibility. In addition, the paper also examines various emerging ballistic performance testing standards and their revisions to incorporate gender-specific standards and measures their ability to decrease trauma effects and maintain flexibility and practical protection. Finally, it identifies existing challenges and areas of future research, such as optimizing multi-layer systems, addressing fatigue behavior, and improving multi-angle and low-velocity impact performance while providing avenues for future sustainable, adaptive, and performance-optimized body armor. Full article

Bone regeneration demands biomaterials capable of supporting tissue integration and mimicking the native piezodynamic properties of bone. In this study, hydroxyapatite–barium titanate (HA-BT) composite coatings with varying BT content (10, 30, and 50 wt%) were developed to enhance the piezoelectric response and corrosion resistance of Ti6Al4V implants. The coatings were synthesized via high-energy ball milling and atmospheric plasma spraying (APS). XRD analysis with Rietveld refinement confirmed the presence of HA along with secondary phases (TTCP, β-TCP, CaO). Electrochemical tests revealed lower corrosion current densities for the coatings containing ≤30% BT, indicating improved stability in physiological environments. Cytotoxicity assays (MTT) demonstrated biocompatibility across all formulations. Piezoresponse force microscopy (DART-SS-PFM) confirmed enhanced d₃₃-eff values for the 50% BT coating (>15 pm/V); however, biological assays under low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) stimulation showed increased osteocalcin expression for ≤30% BT, while 50% BT induced cellular stress. Overall, HA-BT coatings with up to 30% BT exhibited optimal electrochemical stability, favorable piezoelectric performance, and enhanced biological response, underscoring their potential for orthopedic implant applications and regenerative tissue engineering. Full article

Based on the dimensions of the small Xanten catapult, this study reconstructs a full-scale model to validate its manufacturing techniques and evaluate its effectiveness. The process underscores the role of experimental archaeology: the activity facilitates a dynamic sequence of queries, guides the interpretation of signs—not merely physical ones—refines the perception of the cognitive model, and relies on an interdisciplinary approach and strategy. The reconstruction fosters social engagement and scientific dialogue, supporting the adoption of new strategies for knowledge transmission and cultural valorization. The conclusions of this study contribute to the debate on the causes of damage inflicted by the Roman legions on the perimeter walls of Pompeii. Full article

During Sulla’s siege of Pompeii in 89 BC projectiles were launched using Roman artillery, leaving visible craters on the fortified walls. The city was later buried by the eruption in 79 AD, preserving both its architectural layout and the damaged wall surfaces, and was excavated in the early 20th century. This study focuses on simulating projectile impacts on Grey Tuff to estimate impact velocities and penetration depths, offering insights into the destructive capability of Roman weapons. Material models are developed, followed by finite element analysis. Mesh convergence, velocity calibration, and angular impact studies are performed for both ballista and dart to better understand impact mechanics and crater formation. Full article

A straightforward method for determining the causes of impact relics left by ancient projectiles on the city walls of Pompeii is proposed based on principles of plasticity and fracture mechanics. The inverse analysis begins with the measured craters caused by spherical projectiles or darts launched by the Roman army during the siege of 89 B.C. A Mathematica© notebook is presented, enabling the calculation of projectile impact velocity from the known dimensions of the projectiles and the mechanical properties of the wall material. Full article

Thanks to Pompeii’s burial under Vesuvio’s 79 AD eruption deposits, the ballistic imprints on its northern defensive perimeter are uniquely attributable to Sulla’s siege of 89 BC. These impact marks were digitally documented using integrated survey techniques and custom pipelines. The virtual casts generated—dimensionally accurate, high-resolution surface replicas—serve as key inputs for the reverse-modeling of damage craters, supporting terminal ballistics analyses. Two case studies—a stone projectile cavity and fan-shaped dart impressions—were 3D-printed at 1:1 scale. Prototype casting thus emerges as a cultural asset and rapidly updatable component of a dynamic data ecosystem, inclusive of users with disabilities. Full article

This study examines the first systematic documentation of a series of small impact marks on the northern walls of Pompeii, interpreted as the result of Roman metal dart projectiles launched during the Sullan siege in 89 BC. Using high-resolution, reality-based 3D models, comparative analysis, and reverse modeling techniques, the research explores the hypothesis that a distinctive fan-shaped configuration of quadrangular indentations may have been produced by a repeating catapult, known as the polybolos. The integration of close-range photogrammetry, laser scanning, and digital reconstruction tools demonstrates how virtual casts and comparative modeling can contribute to archaeological interpretations of ancient projectile weaponry. Full article

A well-equipped legionary army prepared to lay siege to Pompeii. Among the weapons deployed along the northern stretch of the city walls were battering rams and mobile siege towers equipped with ballistae and scorpions. The impact marks from Republican-era stone balls and dart tips remain visible today between the Vesuvio and Ercolano Gates. In 2002 and 2016, the authors surveyed significant cavities using both direct and indirect methods. The collected data were then used to calculate the volume of fractured stone material. Given the hardness of the wall ashlars, ballistic parameters were quantified based on Hellenistic treatises. The results make it possible to derive dimensions for reconstructing artillery calibrated to the observed effects. Full article

Saffron is a high-cost spice due to the specific conditions for optimal growth and because of being harvested by hand. The massive income from commercializing saffron substituted with other plant parts or low-cost spices makes this spice the main target of fraudsters. Background: Different methods have been developed for detecting saffron adulteration. Most of them are time consuming and complex, and in some types of analysis, the whole untargeted dataset is combined with advanced chemometric tools to differentiate authentic from non-authentic saffron. The official method, combining UV–vis spectroscopy and LC to determine the colour strength and the crocin content, is unable to detect saffron adulterants (safflower, marigold, or turmeric) added at a level lower than 20% (w/w). As a result, innovative approaches based on rapid, high-throughput methods for the identification of adulterated saffron samples are urgently demanded to counteract food frauds. Methods: This paper describes, for the first time, the development of a method combining Direct Analysis in Real Time (DART) with the triple quadrupole MS EVOQ based on the detection of specific MS/MS transitions, promoting a rapid, robust and chromatography-free method capable of monitoring safflower and turmeric adulteration in saffron. Results: The method proved to reach low LODs, allowing the determination of tiny amounts of turmeric and safflower powder in saffron as low as 3% and 5%, respectively, speeding up the whole analytical workflow and enabling us to perform 20 analyses in 10 min. Finally, the greenness of the method was also assessed according to the 0.88 score achieved by submitting it to the greenness calculator AGREE. Conclusions: Given its speed, simplicity, and robustness, this method stands out as a strong candidate for routine implementation in testing laboratories as a rapid screening tool to detect saffron adulteration with safflower or turmeric. Full article

In line with the recommended European policy for a zero-waste crop supply chain, a lab-pilot optimisation process to valorise the by-products of industrially produced rapeseed meal (RM) was performed. Three batches of RM were first processed into ethanol-wash solutes (EWS) and then optimised (OEWS) by an ultrasound-assisted (UA) treatment. After direct analysis in real time–high resolution mass spectrometry (DART-HRMS) analysis, data were processed applying a partial least square–discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), which retrieved the 15 most discriminative ions able to characterise the biochemical changes during the ethanol-washing and UA optimisation process. The metabolomic fingerprinting of EWS and OEWS generated an accurate and well-defined 3D spatial clusterisation based on a restricted pool of informative bioactive compounds. A significantly higher relative abundance of sinapic, azelaic, and vernolic acids and a lower incidence of the oleic and palmitic fatty acids were detected in OEWS. DART-HRMS generated a vast amount of biochemical information in one single run, also demonstrating that its association with an untargeted multivariate statistical approach would be a valuable tool for revealing specific functional biomarkers. This would eventually enhance the circular and effective use of rapeseed residuals coming from this plant’s oilseed industry. Full article

BiFeO₃ is a fascinating material with a rhombohedral crystal structure (R3c) at room temperature. This unique structure makes it suitable for use in solar cells, as the interaction of light with the polarized octahedral enhances electron movement. Evaluating its properties on different substrates helps to identify the specific characteristics of thin films. The thin films presented in this work were deposited using reactive RF cathodic sputtering with a homemade 1-inch diameter ceramic target. Their morphology, phase composition, optical, piezoelectric, and ferroelectric properties were evaluated. Fluorine Tin Oxide (FTO) and Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) substrates were used for the presented thin films. The thin films deposited on FTO displayed the “butterfly” behavior typically associated with ferroelectric materials. A d₃₃ value of 2.71 nm/V was determined using SSPFM-DART mode. In contrast, the thin films deposited on ITO at 550 °C reached a maximum saturation polarization of 40.89 μC/cm² and a remnant polarization of 44.87 μC/cm², which are the highest values recorded, but did not present the typical “butterfly” behavior. As the grain size increased, the influence of charge defects became more pronounced, leading to an increase in the leakage current. Furthermore, the presence of secondary phases also contributed to this behavior. Full article