scholarly journals Diffuse retro-reflective imaging for improved video tracking of mosquitoes at human baited bednets

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vitaly Voloshin ◽  
Christian Kröner ◽  
Chandrabhan Seniya ◽  
Gregory P. D. Murray ◽  
Amy Guy ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Large Scale ◽  
Imaging Techniques ◽  
Field Studies ◽  
Noise Removal ◽  
Optical Signal ◽  
Video Tracking ◽  
Ease Of Use ◽  
Model Systems ◽  
Diffuse Illumination ◽  
Mosquito Behaviour

AbstractRobust imaging techniques for tracking insects have been essential tools in numerous laboratory and field studies on pests, beneficial insects and model systems. Recent innovations in optical imaging systems and associated signal processing have enabled detailed characterisation of nocturnal mosquito behaviour around bednets and improvements in bednet design, a global essential for protecting populations against malaria. Nonetheless, there remain challenges around ease of use for large scale in situ recordings and extracting data reliably in the critical areas of the bednet where the optical signal is attenuated. Here we introduce a retro-reflective screen at the back of the measurement volume, which can simultaneously provide diffuse illumination, and remove optical alignment issues whilst requiring only one-sided access to the measurement space. The illumination becomes significantly more uniform, although, noise removal algorithms are needed to reduce the effects of shot noise particularly across low intensity bednet regions. By systematically introducing mosquitoes in front and behind the bednet in lab experiments we are able to demonstrate robust tracking in these challenging areas. Overall, the retro-reflective imaging setup delivers mosquito segmentation rates in excess of 90% compared to less than 70% with back-lit systems.

scholarly journals Diffuse retro-reflective imaging for improved video tracking of mosquitoes at human baited bednets

2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (5) ◽  
pp. 191951 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vitaly Voloshin ◽  
Christian Kröner ◽  
Chandrabhan Seniya ◽  
Gregory P. D. Murray ◽  
Amy Guy ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Large Scale ◽  
Imaging Techniques ◽  
Field Studies ◽  
Noise Removal ◽  
Optical Signal ◽  
Video Tracking ◽  
Ease Of Use ◽  
Model Systems ◽  
Mosquito Behaviour ◽  
Set Up

Robust imaging techniques for tracking insects have been essential tools in numerous laboratory and field studies on pests, beneficial insects and model systems. Recent innovations in optical imaging systems and associated signal processing have enabled detailed characterization of nocturnal mosquito behaviour around bednets and improvements in bednet design, a global essential for protecting populations against malaria. Nonetheless, there remain challenges around ease of use for large-scale in situ recordings and extracting data reliably in the critical areas of the bednet where the optical signal is attenuated. Here, we introduce a retro-reflective screen at the back of the measurement volume, which can simultaneously provide diffuse illumination, and remove optical alignment issues while requiring only one-sided access to the measurement space. The illumination becomes significantly more uniform, although noise removal algorithms are needed to reduce the effects of shot noise, particularly across low-intensity bednet regions. By systematically introducing mosquitoes in front of and behind the bednet in laboratory experiments, we are able to demonstrate robust tracking in these challenging areas. Overall, the retro-reflective imaging set-up delivers mosquito segmentation rates in excess of 90% compared to less than 70% with backlit systems.

Effects of Trust and Threat Messaging on Academic Cheating: A Field Study

2021 ◽  
pp. 095679762097751
Author(s):  
Li Zhao ◽  
Jiaxin Zheng ◽  
Haiying Mao ◽  
Xinyi Yu ◽  
Jiacheng Ye ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Field Study ◽  
Academic Integrity ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Theoretical Foundation ◽  
Empirical Evaluation ◽  
Psychological Theory ◽  
Field Studies ◽  
Educational Institutions ◽  
Academic Cheating ◽  
College Classrooms

Morality-based interventions designed to promote academic integrity are being used by educational institutions around the world. Although many such approaches have a strong theoretical foundation and are supported by laboratory-based evidence, they often have not been subjected to rigorous empirical evaluation in real-world contexts. In a naturalistic field study ( N = 296), we evaluated a recent research-inspired classroom innovation in which students are told, just prior to taking an unproctored exam, that they are trusted to act with integrity. Four university classes were assigned to a proctored exam or one of three types of unproctored exam. Students who took unproctored exams cheated significantly more, which suggests that it may be premature to implement this approach in college classrooms. These findings point to the importance of conducting ecologically valid and well-controlled field studies that translate psychological theory into practice when introducing large-scale educational reforms.

scholarly journals A minimal 3D model of mosquito flight behaviour around the human baited bed net

2021 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jeff Jones ◽  
Gregory P D Murray ◽  
Philip J McCall
Keyword(s):  
Spatial Scales ◽  
Video Tracking ◽  
Sub Saharan Africa ◽  
Bed Nets ◽  
State Transitions ◽  
Bed Net ◽  
Flight Behaviour ◽  
Individual Agent ◽  
Host Seeking ◽  
Mosquito Behaviour

Abstract Background Advances in digitized video-tracking and behavioural analysis have enabled accurate recording and quantification of mosquito flight and host-seeking behaviours, facilitating development of individual (agent) based models at much finer spatial scales than previously possible. Methods Quantified behavioural parameters were used to create a novel virtual testing model, capable of accurately simulating indoor flight behaviour by a virtual population of host-seeking mosquitoes as they interact with and respond to simulated stimuli from a human-occupied bed net. The model is described, including base mosquito behaviour, state transitions, environmental representation and host stimulus representation. Results In the absence of a bed net and human host bait, flight distribution of the model population was relatively uniform throughout the arena. Introducing an unbaited untreated bed net induced a change in distribution with an increase in landing events on the net surface, predominantly on the sides of the net. Adding the presence of a simulated human bait dramatically impacted flight distribution patterns, exploratory foraging and, the number and distribution of landing positions on the net, which were determined largely by the orientation of the human within. The model replicates experimental results with free-flying living mosquitoes at human-occupied bed nets, where contact occurs predominantly on the top surface of the net. This accuracy is important as it quantifies exposure to the lethal insecticide residues that may be unique to the net roof (or theoretically any other surface). Number of net contacts and height of contacts decreased with increasing attractant dispersal noise. Conclusions Results generated by the model are an accurate representation of actual mosquito behaviour recorded at and around a human-occupied bed net in untreated and insecticide-treated nets. This fine-grained model is highly flexible and has significant potential for in silico screening of novel bed net designs, potentially reducing time and cost and accelerating the deployment of new and more effective tools for protecting against malaria in sub-Saharan Africa.

scholarly journals Mutational landscape of EGFR-, MYC-, and Kras-driven genetically engineered mouse models of lung adenocarcinoma

2016 ◽  
Vol 113 (42) ◽  
pp. E6409-E6417 ◽  
Author(s):  
David G. McFadden ◽  
Katerina Politi ◽  
Arjun Bhutkar ◽  
Frances K. Chen ◽  
Xiaoling Song ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Lung Adenocarcinoma ◽  
Mouse Models ◽  
Cancer Progression ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Human Cancer ◽  
Genetically Engineered ◽  
Model Systems ◽  
Driver Mutations ◽  
Genetic Profile ◽  
Genetically Engineered Mouse Models

Genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) of cancer are increasingly being used to assess putative driver mutations identified by large-scale sequencing of human cancer genomes. To accurately interpret experiments that introduce additional mutations, an understanding of the somatic genetic profile and evolution of GEMM tumors is necessary. Here, we performed whole-exome sequencing of tumors from three GEMMs of lung adenocarcinoma driven by mutant epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), mutant Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (Kras), or overexpression of MYC proto-oncogene. Tumors from EGFR- and Kras-driven models exhibited, respectively, 0.02 and 0.07 nonsynonymous mutations per megabase, a dramatically lower average mutational frequency than observed in human lung adenocarcinomas. Tumors from models driven by strong cancer drivers (mutant EGFR and Kras) harbored few mutations in known cancer genes, whereas tumors driven by MYC, a weaker initiating oncogene in the murine lung, acquired recurrent clonal oncogenic Kras mutations. In addition, although EGFR- and Kras-driven models both exhibited recurrent whole-chromosome DNA copy number alterations, the specific chromosomes altered by gain or loss were different in each model. These data demonstrate that GEMM tumors exhibit relatively simple somatic genotypes compared with human cancers of a similar type, making these autochthonous model systems useful for additive engineering approaches to assess the potential of novel mutations on tumorigenesis, cancer progression, and drug sensitivity.

Dynamic behavior of diffusion flame interacting with a large-scale vortex by laser imaging techniques

2005 ◽  
Vol 30 (1) ◽  
pp. 465-473 ◽  
Author(s):  
Masaharu Komiyama ◽  
Tomoya Fujimura ◽  
Toshimi Takagi ◽  
Shinichi Kinoshita
Keyword(s):  
Dynamic Behavior ◽  
Diffusion Flame ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Imaging Techniques ◽  
Laser Imaging ◽  
Large Scale Vortex

Electric Toothbrushes–For Whom are They Designed?

2002 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
pp. 6-8 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sebastian Ciancio
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Studies ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Economic Status ◽  
New Technology ◽  
Ease Of Use ◽  
Special Populations ◽  
Gingival Health

Powered toothbrushes were first introduced on a large scale in the early 1960s. However, because of a clear lack of superiority compared with manual brushes, and problems with mechanical breakdowns, their sales decreased significantly. However, recommendation for their use continued in special populations with dexterity and cognition problems. The 1990s ushered in an era of new technology, and studies began to suggest superiority of some powered brushes, particularly those using oscillating-rotating or counter-rotational actions. Some studies have shown interproximal cleansing abilities superior to those of manual brushes and yielding results similar to those achieved with the use of a manual brush and floss. Both controlled and open-labeled studies have suggested that electric brushes improve gingival health with patients who routinely used manual brushes prior to using these new powered brushes, and safety has been clearly established. In recommending powered toothbrushes, practitioners should familiarize themselves with the products available, with the clinical studies supporting their benefits compared with manual brushes, their safety and ease of use, and the patient's economic status.

The adoption of biometric point-of-sale terminal for payments

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Siti Nurdiyana Atikah Sulaiman ◽  
Mohammad Nabil Almunawar
Keyword(s):  
Technology Acceptance ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Time Frame ◽  
Ease Of Use ◽  
Perceived Usefulness ◽  
Perceived Ease Of Use ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Point Of Sale ◽  
Scale Point ◽  
Acceptance Model

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate factors that influence customers’ adoption of biometric-based point-of-sale in Brunei. Design/methodology/approach This paper extends technology acceptance model constructs with trust and some other variables as the framework to investigate their influence on the attitude toward the usage of a biometric point-of-sale terminal for payments in Brunei. Nine variables may influence user’s perception toward usage. The nine variables are needed, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, experience, innovativeness, privacy, security, trust and attitude toward usage. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to test hypotheses related to these nine variables. Findings It is found that the innovativeness of an individual and similar experience corresponds toward trust, which is positively related to attitude toward usage. Perceived usefulness and trust have significantly influenced the intention of individuals to use biometrics as an authentication method for payment. Research limitations/implications The nature of this research is to gather the public’s opinion and perception as much as it is deemed possible to get a bigger and clearer picture of the study. As the target respondence is citizens and residents of Brunei without any specification or exclusion, a large response would be needed to have a more reliable and accurate result. However, only 205 respondents can be gathered in this study. Had there been a longer time frame, it would be best to gather a lot more responses. Originality/value This paper explores the adoption of biometric authentication in large-scale point-of-terminals. It identifies factors that influence adoption. The results of this study could assist future researchers in which direction to take to further explore biometric as an authentication method for payment. In addition to this, it could also provide banks and financial technology in Brunei a clearer picture of the Brunei market and Bruneians perspective on the biometric system.

scholarly journals Large-scale grid integration of residential thermal energy storages as demand-side flexibility resource: A review of international field studies

2019 ◽  
Vol 101 ◽  
pp. 527-547 ◽  
Author(s):  
Peter Kohlhepp ◽  
Hassan Harb ◽  
Henryk Wolisz ◽  
Simon Waczowicz ◽  
Dirk Müller ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Thermal Energy ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Field Studies ◽  
Grid Integration ◽  
Demand Side ◽  
Large Scale Grid ◽  
Scale Grid

scholarly journals Exome-wide association studies in general and long-lived populations identify genetic variants related to human age

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Patrick Sin-Chan ◽  
Nehal Gosalia ◽  
Chuan Gao ◽  
Cristopher V. Van Hout ◽  
Bin Ye ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Exome Sequencing ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Mixed Model ◽  
Linear Mixed Model ◽  
Association Studies ◽  
Model Systems ◽  
P Value ◽  
Ashkenazi Jews ◽  
Association Analyses ◽  
Age Related

SUMMARYAging is characterized by degeneration in cellular and organismal functions leading to increased disease susceptibility and death. Although our understanding of aging biology in model systems has increased dramatically, large-scale sequencing studies to understand human aging are now just beginning. We applied exome sequencing and association analyses (ExWAS) to identify age-related variants on 58,470 participants of the DiscovEHR cohort. Linear Mixed Model regression analyses of age at last encounter revealed variants in genes known to be linked with clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential, which are associated with myelodysplastic syndromes, as top signals in our analysis, suggestive of age-related somatic mutation accumulation in hematopoietic cells despite patients lacking clinical diagnoses. In addition to APOE, we identified rare DISP2 rs183775254 (p = 7.40×10−10) and ZYG11A rs74227999 (p = 2.50×10−08) variants that were negatively associated with age in either both sexes combined and females, respectively, which were replicated with directional consistency in two independent cohorts. Epigenetic mapping showed these variants are located within cell-type-specific enhancers, suggestive of important transcriptional regulatory functions. To discover variants associated with extreme age, we performed exome-sequencing on persons of Ashkenazi Jewish descent ascertained for extensive lifespans. Case-Control analyses in 525 Ashkenazi Jews cases (Males ≥ 92 years, Females ≥ 95years) were compared to 482 controls. Our results showed variants in APOE (rs429358, rs6857), and TMTC2 (rs7976168) passed Bonferroni-adjusted p-value, as well as several nominally-associated population-specific variants. Collectively, our Age-ExWAS, the largest performed to date, confirmed and identified previously unreported candidate variants associated with human age.

scholarly journals Advancing Clinical Cohort Selection with Genomics Analysis on a Distributed Platform

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jaclyn Marjorie Smith ◽  
Melvin Lathara ◽  
Hollis Wright ◽  
Brian Hill ◽  
Nalini Ganapati ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Precision Medicine ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Linear Time ◽  
Distributed Storage ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Ease Of Use ◽  
Time Data ◽  
Worst Case ◽  
Research Perspective ◽  
Medicine Analysis

Abstract Background The affordability of next-generation genomic sequencing and the improvement of medical data management have contributed largely to the evolution of biological analysis from both a clinical and research perspective. Precision medicine is a response to these advancements that places individuals into better-defined subsets based on shared clinical and genetic features. The identification of personalized diagnosis and treatment options is dependent on the ability to draw insights from large-scale, multi-modal analysis of biomedical datasets. Driven by a real use case, we premise that platforms that support precision medicine analysis should maintain data in their optimal data stores, should support distributed storage and query mechanisms, and should scale as more samples are added to the system. Results We extended a genomics-based columnar data store, GenomicsDB, for ease of use within a distributed analytics platform for clinical and genomic data integration, known as the ODA framework. The framework supports interaction from an i2b2 plugin as well as a notebook environment. We show that the ODA framework exhibits worst-case linear scaling for array size (storage), import time (data construction), and query time for an increasing number of samples. We go on to show worst-case linear time for both import of clinical data and aggregate query execution time within a distributed environment. Conclusions This work highlights the integration of a distributed genomic database with a distributed compute environment to support scalable and efficient precision medicine queries from a HIPAA-compliant, cohort system in a real-world setting. The ODA framework is currently deployed in production to support precision medicine exploration and analysis from clinicians and researchers at UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine.

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