In the field of speaker verification (SV) it is nowadays feasible and relatively easy to create a synthetic voice to deceive a speech driven biometric access system. This paper presents a synthetic ...speech detector that can be connected at the front-end or at the back-end of a standard SV system, and that will protect it from spoofing attacks coming from state-of-the-art statistical Text to Speech (TTS) systems. The system described is a Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) based binary classifier that uses natural and copy-synthesized signals obtained from the Wall Street Journal database to train the system models. Three different state-of-the-art vocoders are chosen and modeled using two sets of acoustic parameters: 1) relative phase shift and 2) canonical Mel Frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCC) parameters, as baseline. The vocoder dependency of the system and multivocoder modeling features are thoroughly studied. Additional phase-aware vocoders are also tested. Several experiments are carried out, showing that the phase-based parameters perform better and are able to cope with new unknown attacks. The final evaluations, testing synthetic TTS signals obtained from the Blizzard challenge, validate our proposal.
The Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT) shows great potential in realizing the smart ocean. Underwater acoustic sensor networks (UWASNs) are the main existing form of IoUT but face with reliable ...data transmission problems. To tackle this issue, this article considers using the autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) as a mobile collector to construct a reliable hierarchical information collection system while the Value of Information (VoI) is used as a main metric to measure the Quality of Information (QoI). We first establish a realistic model for characterizing the behaviors of AUV and sensor nodes as well as the challenging environments. Then, to construct a hierarchical architecture, we design a sink node (SN) selection scheme by jointly considering VoI conservation and energy load balancing. After that, we focus on AUV path planning with the objective of maximizing the VoI of the total network. We formulate the problem as a combinatorial optimization problem and provide an integer linear programming (ILP) model for this problem. An optimal algorithm based on the branch-and-bound (BB) method is proposed for seeking for the optimal solution, in which the lower bound and upper bound calculation strategies are specifically designed. Two near-optimal heuristic algorithms based on the concepts of the ant colony algorithm (ACA) and the genetic algorithm (GA) are also provided for further reducing the computation complexity. Finally, simulations validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.
The T2-FLAIR mismatch sign on MR imaging is a highly specific imaging biomarker of isocitrate dehydrogenase (
)-mutant astrocytomas, which lack 1p/19q codeletion. However, most studies using the ...T2-FLAIR mismatch sign have used visual assessment. This study quantified the degree of T2-FLAIR mismatch using digital subtraction of fluid-nulled T2-weighted FLAIR images from non-fluid-nulled T2-weighted images in human nonenhancing diffuse gliomas and then used this information to assess improvements in diagnostic performance and investigate subregion characteristics within these lesions.
Two cohorts of treatment-naïve, nonenhancing gliomas with known
and 1p/19q status were studied (
= 71 from The Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA) and
= 34 in the institutional cohort). 3D volumes of interest corresponding to the tumor were segmented, and digital subtraction maps of T2-weighted MR imaging minus T2-weighted FLAIR MR imaging were used to partition each volume of interest into a T2-FLAIR mismatched subregion (T2-FLAIR mismatch, corresponding to voxels with positive values on the subtraction maps) and nonmismatched subregion (T2-FLAIR nonmismatch corresponding to voxels with negative values on the subtraction maps). Tumor subregion volumes, percentage of T2-FLAIR mismatch volume, and T2-FLAIR nonmismatch subregion thickness were calculated, and 2 radiologists assessed the T2-FLAIR mismatch sign with and without the aid of T2-FLAIR subtraction maps.
Thresholds of ≥42% T2-FLAIR mismatch volume classified
-mutant astrocytoma with a specificity/sensitivity of 100%/19.6% (TCIA) and 100%/31.6% (institutional); ≥25% T2-FLAIR mismatch volume showed 92.0%/32.6% and 100%/63.2% specificity/sensitivity, and ≥15% T2-FLAIR mismatch volume showed 88.0%/39.1% and 93.3%/79.0% specificity/sensitivity. In
-mutant astrocytomas with ≥15% T2-FLAIR mismatch volume, T2-FLAIR nonmismatch subregion thickness was negatively correlated with the percentage T2-FLAIR mismatch volume (
< .0001) across both cohorts. The percentage T2-FLAIR mismatch volume was higher in grades 3-4 compared with grade 2
-mutant astrocytomas (
< .05), and ≥15% T2-FLAIR mismatch volume
mutant astrocytomas were significantly larger than <15% T2-FLAIR mismatch volume
-mutant astrocytoma (
< .05) across both cohorts. When evaluated by 2 radiologists, the additional use of T2-FLAIR subtraction maps did not show a significant difference in interreader agreement, sensitivity, or specificity compared with a separate evaluation of T2-FLAIR and T2-weighted MR imaging alone.
T2-FLAIR digital subtraction maps may be a useful, automated tool to obtain objective segmentations of tumor subregions based on quantitative thresholds for classifying
-mutant astrocytomas using the percentage T2 FLAIR mismatch volume with 100% specificity and exploring T2-FLAIR mismatch/T2-FLAIR nonmismatch subregion characteristics. Conversely, the addition of T2-FLAIR subtraction maps did not enhance the sensitivity or specificity of the visual T2-FLAIR mismatch sign assessment by experienced radiologists.
•Nation-wide genomic analysis could detect seven different phases of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in India.•Variant of concern and variant of interest were dominated only post-first wave in India.•More than ...0.5 million mutational events could be detected across 20,086 high quality genomes.•Four major mutational events i.e., spike (D614G), NSP 12b (P314L), NSP3 F106F and 5′ UTR 241 occurring in more than 19,000 genomes.
COVID-19 has posed unforeseen circumstances and throttled major economies worldwide. India has witnessed two waves affecting around 31 million people representing 16% of the cases globally. To date, the epidemic waves have not been comprehensively investigated to understand pandemic progress in India.
Here, we aim for pan Indian cross-sectional evolutionary analysis since inception of SARS-CoV-2.
High quality genomes, along with their collection date till 26th July 2021, were downloaded. Whole genome-based phylogeny was obtained. Further, the mutational analysis was performed using SARS-CoV-2 first reported from Wuhan (NC_045512.2) as reference.
Based on reported cases and mutation rates, we could divide the Indian epidemic into seven phases. The average mutation rate for the pre-first wave was <11, which elevated to 17 in the first wave and doubled in the second wave (∼34). In accordance with mutation rate, VOCs and VOIs started appearing in the first wave (1.5%), which dominated the second (∼96%) and post-second wave (100%). Nation-wide mutational analysis depicted >0.5 million mutation events with four major mutations in >19,300 genomes, including two mutations in coding (spike (D614G), and NSP 12b (P314L) of rdrp), one silent mutation (NSP3 F106F) and one extragenic mutation (5′ UTR 241).
Whole genome-based phylogeny could demarcate post-first wave isolates from previous ones by point of diversification leading to incidences of VOCs and VOIs in India. Such analysis is crucial in the timely management of pandemic.
This article proposes a new passive islanding detection technique for inverter-based distributed generation (DG) in microgrids based on local synchrophasor measurements. The proposed method utilizes ...the voltage and current phasors measured at the DG connection point (point of connection, PoC). In this paper, the rate of change of voltages and the ratio of the voltage and current magnitudes (VoI index) at the PoC are monitored using micro-phasor measurement units. The developed local measurements based decentralized islanding detection technique is based on the VoI index in order to detect any kind of utility grid frequency fluctuations or oscillations and distinguishing them from islanding condition. The simulation studies confirm that the proposed scheme is accurate, robust, fast, and simple to implement for inverter-based DGs.
The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant, classified as a Variant of Concern (VoC) in November 2021, marked a significant shift in the COVID-19 landscape. This study investigates the ...subsequent development of a novel Omicron sublineage, JN.1, which displays distinctive mutations in the spike protein. The study delves into the phylogenetic differences between these variants and their potential implications. A comprehensive analysis of the genomic profiles and mutation patterns of JN.1 and BA.2.86 was conducted, utilizing SARS-CoV-2 database. The study explores the unique mutations, such as S:L455S in JN.1, associated with increased transmissibility and immune escape. Furthermore, a comparison with prevalent strains like XBB.1.5 and HV.1 highlights the substantial genetic divergence of JN.1. JN.1, first detected in August 2023, exhibits a notable spike protein mutation profile, including the reappearance of earlier variants’ mutations (E484K and P681R). The variant’s increased transmissibility and immune evasion potential are attributed to specific spike protein mutations like R21T, S50L, V127F, R158G, and others. The study also explores the distribution and prevalence of JN.1 globally, with a focus on the rising cases in India. JN.1 poses a unique challenge as one of the most immune-evading variants, with potential implications for COVID-19 transmission. The study emphasizes the importance of monitoring and understanding emerging variants, especially those with distinct spike protein mutations. The observed cases in India highlight the need for vigilance and prompt public health responses. As JN.1 continues to evolve, ongoing surveillance, vaccination strategies, and adherence to preventive measures are crucial to mitigating its potential impact on global public health.
Abstract This study investigated the effects of dual delivery of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) for bone regeneration in a rat cranial critical ...size defect. Four groups of scaffolds were generated with VEGF (12 μg), BMP-2 (2 μg), both VEGF (12 μg) and BMP-2 (2 μg), or no growth factor released from gelatin microparticles incorporated within the scaffold pores. These scaffolds were implanted within an 8 mm rat cranial critical size defect ( n = 8–9 for each group). At 4 and 12 weeks, implants were retrieved and evaluated by microcomputed tomography (microCT) and histological scoring analysis. Additionally, 4 week animals were perfused with a radiopaque material to visualize and quantify blood vessel formation. Histological analysis revealed that for all groups at 4 weeks, a majority of the porous scaffold volume was filled with vascularized fibrous tissue; however, bone formation appeared most abundant in the dual release group at this time. At 12 weeks, both dual release and BMP-2 groups showed large amounts of bone formation within the scaffold pores and along the outer surfaces of the scaffold; osteoid secretion and mineralization were apparent, and new bone was often in close or direct contact with the scaffold interface. MicroCT results showed no significant difference among groups for blood vessel formation at 4 weeks (< 4% blood vessel volume); however, the dual release group showed significantly higher bone formation (16.1 ± 9.2% bone volume) than other groups at this time. At 12 weeks, dual release and BMP-2 groups exhibited significantly higher bone formation (39.7 ± 14.1% and 37.4 ± 18.8% bone volume, respectively) than either the VEGF group or blank scaffolds (6.3 ± 4.8% and 7.8 ± 7.1% bone volume, respectively). This work indicates a synergistic effect of the dual delivery of VEGF and BMP-2 on bone formation at 4 weeks and suggests an interplay between these growth factors for early bone regeneration. For the doses investigated, the results show that the addition of VEGF does not affect the amount of bone formation achieved by BMP-2 at 12 weeks; however, they also indicate that delivery of both growth factors may enhance bone bridging and union of the critical size defect compared to delivery of BMP-2 alone.
(1) Background: triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains a clinical and therapeutic challenge primarily affecting young women with poor prognosis. TNBC is currently treated as a single entity but ...presents a very diverse profile in terms of prognosis and response to treatment. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) with
F-fluorodeoxyglucose (
FFDG) is gaining importance for the staging of breast cancers. TNBCs often show high
FFDG uptake and some studies have suggested a prognostic value for metabolic and volumetric parameters, but no study to our knowledge has examined textural features in TNBC. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between metabolic, volumetric and textural parameters measured at the initial
FFDG PET/CT and disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with nonmetastatic TBNC. (2) Methods: all consecutive nonmetastatic TNBC patients who underwent a
FFDG PET/CT examination upon diagnosis between 2012 and 2018 were retrospectively included. The metabolic and volumetric parameters (SUV
, SUV
, SUV
, MTV, and TLG) and the textural features (entropy, homogeneity, SRE, LRE, LGZE, and HGZE) of the primary tumor were collected. (3) Results: 111 patients were enrolled (median follow-up: 53.6 months). In the univariate analysis, high TLG, MTV and entropy values of the primary tumor were associated with lower DFS (
= 0.008,
= 0.006 and
= 0.025, respectively) and lower OS (
= 0.002,
= 0.001 and
= 0.046, respectively). The discriminating thresholds for two-year DFS were calculated as 7.5 for MTV, 55.8 for TLG and 2.6 for entropy. The discriminating thresholds for two-year OS were calculated as 9.3 for MTV, 57.4 for TLG and 2.67 for entropy. In the multivariate analysis, lymph node involvement in PET/CT was associated with lower DFS (
= 0.036), and the high MTV of the primary tumor was correlated with lower OS (
= 0.014). (4) Conclusions: textural features associated with metabolic and volumetric parameters of baseline
FFDG PET/CT have a prognostic value for identifying high-relapse-risk groups in early TNBC patients.
The Day Nui Con Voi (DNCV) metamorphic complex in North Vietnam is the southernmost high-grade metamorphic zone along the NW–SE trending Red River Shear Zone (RRSZ) in Indochina. The RRSZ was ...considered as a classical large-scale continental strike-slip fault that had played a significant role in the continental extrusion of Southeast Asia since the collision of India and Eurasia. Earlier ideas determined the RRSZ as a steep shear zone that penetrated the entire lithosphere. Both metamorphism and structures within rocks along the DNCV metamorphic complex have been previously thought to be formed syn-tectonically by left-lateral shearing of the RRSZ during the Oligocene–Miocene continental escape tectonics. However, our meso- and microstructural re-examination of this region shows that these metamorphic rocks were formed during earlier tectonic episodes unrelated to strike-slip shearing. High angle to near orthogonal overprinting fabrics indicated that this region recorded three episodes of ductile deformation followed by brittle faulting events with different intensity spanning from the Triassic to the Tertiary. D
1 is preserved as NW–SE striking upright folds under garnet grade regional metamorphism during the Triassic Indosinian orogeny as South China block amalgamated with the Indochina block. The large-scale horizontal D
2 folds with a dominant top to N–NW bottom to S–SW sense of shear, and sub-horizontal fold axial planes suggest that the DNCV metamorphic complex remained at midcrustal depths since the Indosinian orogeny. The youngest ductile deformation event, D
3, refolded D
2 recumbent folds into a dome, and uplifted the DNCV as lower-temperature fabrics, S
3, indicated. Steep mylonite zones with left-lateral kinematic indicators and brittle faulting were developed on both limbs of the dome along the steep Song Hong and Song Chay faults during left-lateral movement of the RRSZ. Our new spatial, temporal and kinematic correlations of metamorphic fabrics within the DNCV metamorphic complex support the suggestion that the RRSZ developed after regional metamorphism and remained purely a crustal fault. The complicated deformation history recorded within the DNCV metamorphic complex provides an alternative interpretation and suggests that crustal scale strike-slip faults (such as the RRSZ) need not root from the mantle.
The structural geology, timing of shearing, and tectonic implications of the ASRR shear zone, one of the most striking lineaments in Southeast Asia, have been the topics of extensive studies over the ...past few decades. The Xuelong Shan (XLS), Diancang Shan (DCS), Ailao Shan (ALS) and Day Nui Con Voi (DNCV) metamorphic massifs along the shear zone have preserved important information on its structural and tectonic evolution. Our field structural analysis, detailed microstructural and fabric analysis, as well as the quartz, sillimanite and garnet fabric studies of the sheared rocks from the massifs demonstrate the dominant roles of three deformation episodes during Cenozoic tectonic evolution in the shear zone. Among the contrasting structural and microstructural associations in the shear zone, D2 structures, which were formed at the brittle to ductile transition during large-scale left-lateral shearing in the second deformation episode, predominate over the structural styles of the other two deformation episodes. Discrete micro-shear zones with intensive grain size reduction compose the characteristic structural style of D2 deformation. In addition, several types of folds (early shearing folds, F21, and late-shearing folds, F22) were formed in the sheared rocks, including discrete to distributed mylonitic foliation, stretching lineation and shear fabrics (e.g., mica fish, domino structures, as well as sigma and delta fabrics). A sequence of microstructures from syn-kinematic magmatic flow, high-temperature solid-state deformation, to brittle–ductile shearing is well-preserved in the syn-kinematic leucocratic intrusions. Deformation structures from the first episode (D1) are characterized by F1 folds and distributed foliations (S1) in rocks due to pure shearing at high temperatures. They are preserved in weakly sheared (D2) rocks along the eastern margin of the ALS belt or in certain low-strain tectonic enclaves within the shear zone. Furthermore, semi-brittle deformation structures, such as hot striae and discrete retrogression zones, are attributed to normal-slip shearing in the third deformation episode (D3), which was probably locally active, along the eastern flank of the DCS range, for example.
There are four quartz c-axis fabric patterns in the mylonitic rocks, including type A point maxima, type B Y point maxima with crossed girdles superimposition, type C quadrant maxima, as well as type D point and quadrant maxima combination. They are consistent with microscopic observations of microstructures of high-temperature pure shearing, low-temperature simple shearing and their superimposition. Integrated microstructural analysis and fabric thermometer studies provide information on both high temperature (up to 750°C) and dominant low-temperature (300–600°C) deformations of quartz grains in different rock types. Sillimanite and garnet fabrics, especially the latter, were primarily formed at the peak metamorphism during high-temperature pure shearing.
The above structural, microstructural and fabric associations were generated in the tectonic framework of the Indian-Eurasian collision. The low-temperature microstructures and fabrics are attributed to left-lateral shearing along the ASRR shear zone from 27 to 21Ma during the southeastward extrusion of the Indochina block, which postdated high-temperature deformation at the peak metamorphism during the collision.
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