Edy Ayala

Antibodies are engineerable quantities in medicine. Learning antibody molecular recognition would enable the in silico design of high affinity binders against nearly any proteinaceous surface. Yet, publicly available experiment antibody sequence-binding datasets may not contain the mutagenic, antigenic, or antibody sequence diversity necessary for deep learning approaches to capture molecular recognition. In part, this is because limited experimental platforms exist for assessing quantitative and simultaneous sequence-function relationships for multiple antibodies. Here we present MAGMA-seq, an integrated technology that combines multiple antigens and multiple antibodies and determines quantitative biophysical parameters using deep sequencing. We demonstrate MAGMA-seq on two pooled libraries comprising mutants of ten different human antibodies spanning light chain gene usage, CDR H3 length, and antigenic targets. We demonstrate the comprehensive mapping of potential antibody development pathways, sequence-binding relationships for multiple antibodies simultaneously, and identification of paratope sequence determinants for binding recognition for broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs). MAGMA-seq enables rapid and scalable antibody engineering of multiple lead candidates because it can measure binding for mutants of many given parental antibodies in a single experiment.

Antigens from viruses or immunizations can persist or are archived in lymph node stromal cells such as lymphatic endothelial cells (LEC) and fibroblastic reticular cells (FRC). Here, we find that, during the time frame of antigen archiving, LEC apoptosis caused by a second, but unrelated, innate immune stimulus such as vaccina viral infection or CpG DNA administration resulted in cross-presentation of archived antigens and boosted memory CD8 + T cells specific to the archived antigen. In contrast to "bystander" activation associated with unrelated infections, the memory CD8 + T cells specific to the archived antigen from the immunization were significantly higher than memory CD8 + T cells of a different antigen specificity. Finally, the boosted memory CD8 + T cells resulted in increased protection against Listeria monocytogenes expressing the antigen from the immunization, but only for the duration that the antigen was archived. These findings outline an important mechanism by which lymph node stromal cell archived antigens, in addition to bystander activation, can augment memory CD8 + T cell responses during repeated inflammatory insults.

A new method is described for direct monitoring of the conformational stability of proteins that are physically adsorbed from solution onto a solid substrate. The adsorption-induced conformational changes of insulin are studied using a combination of hydrogen/deuterium (H/D) exchange and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry. The effect of the surface hydrophobicity on the adsorption-induced conformational changes in the insulin structure is probed by adsorbing insulin on a hydrophilic silica and a hydrophobic methylated silica surface before subjecting the insulin molecules to the isotopic exchange process. The present study describes the experimental procedure of this new application of MALDI. Results show that insulin is more highly and more irreversibly adsorbed to a hydrophobic methylated silica surface than to a hydrophilic silica surface. Hydrogen-exchange experiments clearly demonstrate that the strong interaction of insulin with the hydrophobic surface is accompanied by a strong increase in the H/D-exchange rates and thus in a reduction in the insulin native structural stability. In contrast, H/D-exchange rates of insulin are somewhat reduced upon adsorption on silica from solution.

Abstract Antibodies are engineerable quantities in medicine. Learning antibody molecular recognition would enable the in silico design of high affinity binders against nearly any proteinaceous surface. Yet, publicly available experiment antibody sequence-binding datasets may not contain the mutagenic, antigenic, or antibody sequence diversity necessary for deep learning approaches to capture molecular recognition. In part, this is because limited experimental platforms exist for assessing quantitative and simultaneous sequence-function relationships for multiple antibodies. Here we present MAGMA-seq, an integrated technology that combines m ultiple a nti g ens and m ultiple a ntibodies and determines quantitative biophysical parameters using deep seq uencing. We demonstrate MAGMA-seq on two pooled libraries comprising mutants of nine different human antibodies spanning light chain gene usage, CDR H3 length, and antigenic targets. We demonstrate the comprehensive mapping of potential antibody development pathways, sequence-binding relationships for multiple antibodies simultaneously, and identification of paratope sequence determinants for binding recognition for broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs). MAGMA-seq enables rapid and scalable antibody engineering of multiple lead candidates because it can measure binding for mutants of many given parental antibodies in a single experiment.

A novel control strategy is proposed in this paper, which implements a Hierarchical Control (HC) and Space Vector Pulse Width Modulation (SVPWM). The paper outline includes the method design and its micro-grid performance, which has three parallel-connected inverters. Thus, the HC implements inner, primary, and secondary control. The first, inner control loop, regulates the inverter output voltage using the stationary reference frame. On one hand, the primary control implements the universal droop control, which is in charge of active and reactive power share between inverters. On the other hand, the secondary control restores the voltage and frequency deviations because of the primary control. Finally, the results validate the advantages strategy in power inverters. The proposed control scheme effectiveness has an excellent performance, as it applied in micro-grids in the event of abrupt changes or parameter variations.

This article presents the study of the behavior of the internal flow of pressure-swirl atomizers depending on the variation of the opening parameter nozzle “C”, which classifies the atomizers in closed atomizers (with nozzle) and open-end atomizers (without nozzle). In this study it will be shown that the “C” parameter influences the size and behavior of the “air core” radius and the liquid film thickness; for such validation, two methods were used: numerical simulation (CFD) and mathematical model. Respect to numerical analysis, was used the Ansys Fluent software; where, six hexahedral meshes were created, varying the number of inlet channels “n” and the “C” parameter. The numerical simulation was done in steady state using viscosity turbulent model RNG k-𝜖 and the multiphase model VOF (Volume of fluid) to locate the liquid-gas interface; it is worth mentioning that the design of the atomizers was based on the Abramovich and Kliachko theories.

The Pixel Luminosity Telescope is a silicon pixel detector dedicated to luminosity measurement at the CMS experiment at the LHC. It is located approximately 1.75 m from the interaction point and arranged into 16 "telescopes", with eight telescopes installed around the beam pipe at either end of the detector and each telescope composed of three individual silicon sensor planes. The per-bunch instantaneous luminosity is measured by counting events where all three planes in the telescope register a hit, using a special readout at the full LHC bunch-crossing rate of 40 MHz. The full pixel information is read out at a lower rate and can be used to determine calibrations, corrections, and systematic uncertainties for the online and offline measurements. This paper details the commissioning, operational history, and performance of the detector during Run 2 (2015-18) of the LHC, as well as preparations for Run 3, which will begin in 2022.

The present research proposes a control method applied to a Wind Power Generation Systems (WEGS) for Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technique based on a Mamdani Fuzzy observer and complemented by a Proportional and Integral (PI) controller using the Direct Speed Control (DSC). This approach allows commanding the rotor side reference current $${\mathrm{i}}_{\mathrm{qr}}$$ through the variations of the electromagnetic torque and active electrical power in a Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) model. Consequently, the speed of the generator is controlled to ensure obtaining a rapid response of the maximum Power Coefficient ( $${\mathrm{C}}_{\mathrm{p}}$$ ). This strategy’s construction starts with direct measurements of the electrical and mechanical variables using computational tools such as FAST and Matlab-Simulink for simulations of a 1.5MW wind turbine model. This DSC strategy presents a rapid performance regarding the tracking of the maximum $${\mathrm{C}}_{\mathrm{p}}$$ considering the wind turbine dynamics. This approach contrasts with a traditional PI controller improving the extracted power to analyze the proposed procedure.

In this In this article, a control strategy for Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) of a wind turbine system based on a Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) is presented. The proposed strategy consists of the Indirect Speed Control (ISC) taking the Low Speed Shaft (LSS) as variable input. This implementation allows the MPPT to optimize the Power coefficient (Cp). The controller has been designed in order to allow the wind turbine to reach the MPPT along the partial load operation. For these experiments, a 1.5 MW wind turbine was modeled and simulated by using Matlab and Fatigue, Aerodynamic, Structure and Turbulence (FAST) software. In order to present the achieved results, a comparison between the ISC and a classical PI controller is made. The Cp curves as well as the output power display an important improvement in terms of stability. These results are possible because the appropriate values of optimal Tip Speed Ratio (TSR) and maximum Cp have been properly established. article, a control strategy for Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) of a wind turbine system based on a Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) is presented. The proposed strategy consists of the Indirect Speed Control (ISC) taking the Low Speed Shaft (LSS) as variable input. This implementation allows the MPPT to optimize the Power coefficient (Cp). The controller has been designed in order to allow the wind turbine to reach the MPPT along the partial load operation. For these experiments, a 1.5 MW wind turbine was modeled and simulated by using Matlab and Fatigue, Aerodynamic, Structure and Turbulence (FAST) software. In order to present the achieved results, a comparison between the ISC and a classical PI controller is made. The Cp curves as well as the output power display an important improvement in terms of stability. These results are possible because the appropriate values of optimal Tip Speed Ratio (TSR) and maximum Cp have been properly established.

Esta investigación propone una metodología de control aplicada a una técnica en Sistemas de Generación de Energía Eólica (WEGS) para el Seguimiento del Punto de Máxima Potencia (MPPT) basada en un observador Fuzzy y complementada con un controlador PI mediante el método de Control Directo de Velocidad (DSC). Este enfoque permite controlar la corriente de referencia del lado del rotor a través de las variaciones de par y potencia eléctrica en un modelo de Generador de Inducción Doblemente Alimentado (DFIG). En consecuencia, la velocidad del generador se controla para obtener una respuesta rápida del máximo Coeficiente de Potencia (). La construcción de esta estrategia comienza con mediciones directas de las variables eléctricas y mecánicas utilizando herramientas computacionales como FAST y Matlab-Simulink para las simulaciones del modelo del aerogenerador. Esta estrategia DSC presenta un rápido desempeño en el seguimiento del considerando la dinámica de un aerogenerador de 1,5MW; esta estrategia ha sido comparada con un controlador PI tradicional mejorando la extracción de la potencia de salida.

This study delves into the examination of internal flow characteristics within closed (with nozzles) and open-end pressure-swirl atomizers (lacking nozzles). The number of inlet channels “n” and the opening parameter “C” were manipulated in this study, as they play a pivotal role in understanding various atomizer attributes, such as uniformity of the air-core diameter, the discharge coefficient, spray angle, and more, all of which hold significance in the design of bipropellant atomizers for liquid rocket engines (LREs). To validate our findings, six distinct hexahedral meshes were generated using Ansys ICEM software 2023. Subsequently, we employed Ansys Fluent, considering the RNG k-ε turbulence model and the VOF (volume-of-fluid) multiphase model to identify the liquid–gas interface, to aid in analyzing the uniformity of the air core, which is directly linked to the even distribution of mass, the mixing ratio of propellants, combustion efficiency, and stability. The results indicate that the uniformity of the air core is not solely contingent on an increase in parameter “n” but is also influenced by an increase in the parameter “C”. It is worth noting that the key dimensions of these six atomizers were determined using a mathematical model based on Abramovich and Kliachko theories.

Residual Current Devices are protection elements used in many countries for electric shock prevention. These devices detect any differential current flowing from one live line to earth and the mechanism trips opening the circuit avoiding an accident on people. The residual current is standardized based on human tolerance, usually 30 mA. In order to analyze the effectiveness of this protection for real scenarios, in this paper, an experimental research was performed using an electrical human body model including capacitors and resistances. They were applied to the limbs and multiple resistive loads simulating house appliances. Later, in order to generate a controlled leakage current by short circuits, the model was connected to a variable resistive load. After analyzing multiple signals produced in a laboratory, the results showed that a traditional protection relay can trip in average at 8.81 milliseconds almost three times faster than the specifications in the datasheet. Besides, this elements correctly operate for different signal produced by short circuits.

The angular distribution of desorbed neutral and ionized polyalanine molecules, initially embedded in a matrix of 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid, has been measured for the first time. The target was irradiated with a pulsed ultraviolet laser beam (355 nm) incident at an angle of 26 ° with respect to the target normal. The desorbed molecules were collected on silica plates in a hemispherical array and the amount of collected material on each plate was determined using a standard amino acid analysis technique. Alanine polypeptides (14–70 residues) were used as analyte in order to increase the sensitivity of the amino acid analysis of the collector plates. In order to desorb more molecules, the laser fluence used was about three to ten times higher than in normal MALDI applications. In the plane encompassing the laser beam and the surface normal, the distribution is shifted about 13 ° towards the incident laser direction, whereas a nearly symmetric angular distribution is observed in the perpendicular plane. The relevance of these results for desorption models is discussed in terms of a recent analysis. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

In this work, it is explained a perturb and observe algorithm applied to a wind turbine for maximum power point tracking control. This algorithm tracks for the optimum operation point and provides a fast response. The system develops the tracking using real-time measurements and provides maximum power to the grid without using online data training. The system has been simulated in MATLAB to verify the functionality. Simulation results indicate an efficient performance of the algorithm for low inertial generators.

The paper addresses the development of a perturb and observe algorithm implemented for maximum power point tracking control of a permanent magnet synchronous generator. It is shown that this algorithm tracks the optimum operation point and provides fast response even in the presence of faults. The strategy implements the tracking algorithm by using real-time measurements, while providing maximum power to the grid without using online data training. The solution is simulated in the Matlab and Simulink to verify the effectiveness of the proposed approach when fault-free and faulty conditions are considered. The simulation results highlight efficient, intrinsic and passive fault tolerant performances of the algorithm for electric generators and converters with low inertia.

A matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization tandem time-of-flight mass spectrometer has been built with the capabilities to perform structural analyzes. The first time-of-flight mass spectrometer includes a timing ion gate to select the ions to be analyzed. After the selection process, the ions are activated using an electrically floating collision cell. The fragments produced in the collision cell are analyzed in the second time-of-flight stage. A two-step mass calibration procedure is introduced that allows one to obtain accurate mass values. The characteristics of this calibration procedure make possible to automate it. The experimental results of the tandem mass spectrometer and calibration procedure using different standard peptides are presented.

Learning a sign language can be a long process, but necessary to improve the communication of people, nowadays you need face-to-face courses. To facilitate the learning of Ecuadorian Sign Language and make it more interactive, a software trainer is proposed using the Leap Motion® device. The system is based on an SVM classifier, the parameters were calculated to obtain greater efficiency in the classifier. It is able to predict signs from A to Z including mobile signs, the Ecuadorian typographic alphabet has 30 letters and 5 require movement. The system was trained with a database of 40 people resulting in 1200 signs.

Nowadays, surveying sensors have become very popular for prototype development, especially for academic purposes. For instance, the low-cost distance sensor (Lidar Lite v3 Module) is a measuring device that generates different responses depending on the distance between the sensor and the object using laser reflection techniques. Even though this is a useful method, there is not enough information about its performance in different circumstances. Consequently, an evaluation of the sensor has been accomplished in order establish its accuracy in diverse settings such as: material type, temperature and inclination angle. The results are presented in tables, graphs and equations. Moreover, the experiments focus on the percentage error for the measurements. The accuracy of many parameters where confirmed comparing the temperature and distance conditions with the information available from the manufacturer. However, the inclination objects and material type where found different than expected results. The collected information provides a technical perspective for its implementation in prototypes when objects detection and distance is required.

Abstract An increasing number of developing countries are showing interest to become the emerging countries to nuclear energy. Most of these countries lack human resources and adequate infrastructures to enter such a venture. The principle objective of activities of FBNR Group is to train human resources for the countries that at the present lack the necessary conditions, but aim at the future clean and safe nuclear energy through the fourth generation and INPRO compatible nuclear reactors. The preparation for the future nuclear energy is done through development of innovative nuclear reactor that meets the INPRO philosophies and criteria. These countries may or may not have decided as yet to utilize nuclear energy, but are interested to gain a strong educational foundation for their future. The research and development of a small innovative nuclear reactor FBNR is used as the instrument for learning. The young scientists will learn how to be innovative with the vision of INPRO philosophy and criteria.

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The paper addresses the development of a perturb and observe algorithm implemented for maximum power point tracking control of a permanent magnet synchronous generator. It is shown that this algorithm tracks the optimum operation point and provides fast response even in the presence of faults. The strategy implements the tracking algorithm by using real—time measurements, while providing maximum power to the grid without using online data training. The solution is simulated in the Matlab and Simulink to verify the effectiveness of the proposed approach when fault–free and faulty conditions are considered. The simulation results highlight efficient, intrinsic and passive fault tolerant performances of the algorithm for electric generators and converters with low inertia.

Hoy en día, existe un debate sobre qué tan confiable es la energía nuclear en términos de seguridad. Algunos países están prohibiendo su proliferación, mientras que otros apoyan la construcción de nuevas centrales nucleares. Existen múltiples riesgos de su implementación no solo para el medio ambiente sino también para la salud pública. En este artículo se analiza la evolución de las características de seguridad de los reactores de fisión nuclear a través de generaciones para mejorar la confiabilidad. Se incluye información sobre cómo las plantas de energía nuclear garantizan la seguridad y cuáles son los riesgos reales al producir energía nuclear. Además, se describen algunos accidentes en el pasado, así como la gestión de residuos radiactivos. Finalmente, también se presentan algunos estándares y atributos para la producción de energía. El objetivo de este análisis es proporcionar diferentes perspectivas de las implicaciones técnicas de la energía nuclear para ofrecer una comprensión clara de los peligros de los desechos nucleares. La atención se centra no solo en el papel de las regulaciones internacionales, sino también en los accidentes pasados que han llevado al desarrollo de generaciones de reactores de fisión nuclear. En este trabajo, se explica la importancia de apoyar la no proliferación de la energía nuclear hasta que se encuentren soluciones reales para la amenaza de la radioactividad nuclear.

The monitoring of the release of gasses into the atmosphere by natural and man-made sources is a necessary and challenging task, due to the several effects that gasses have in the dynamics of the complex atmospheric system and their consequences for life. Recent advances in spectroscopy, the emerging of new materials and the increased capabilities of computers have allowed to develop and implement many gas monitoring techniques such us Correlation Spectroscopy (COSPEC), Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) which have been successfully used in Ecuador. Here we present the results of the remote sensing techniques used in Ecuadorian Volcanoes. Key words: Volcanic gas monitoring, COSPEC, DOAS, FTIR, RTM, AMF.

In the present work, a control strategy for Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) applied to a wind turbine is described. The electric machine consists of a 1.5MW Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG). This strategy is developed according to the theory of Direct Speed Control (DSC), which includes a state observer. This strategy considers the Low Shaft Speed (LSS) as an input and the iqr reference current as the output. This control mechanism allows monitoring the MPPT; thus, changing the Power Coefficient (Cp) to its optimal value during the wind turbine operation. Among its main features, the controller is configured to work with the incorporation of different wind inputs, a fact that permits evaluating the system’s response to disturbances and variations. For simulation tests, a wind turbine has been modeled in MATLAB-Simulink and Fatigue, Aerodynamics, Structures and Turbulence (FAST) software. The strategy has been compared to a PI-MPPT controller and has demonstrated improvements in terms of speed and output power extraction.

In the present work, a control strategy for Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) of a wind turbine based on a Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) is described. This strategy is developed according to the theory of Di-rect Speed Control (DSC) which includes a state observer. This strategy con-siders the Low Shaft Speed (LSS) as an input and the Iqr reference current as the output. This control mechanism allows monitoring the MPPT; thus, changing the Power coefficient (Cp) to its optimal value during the operation of the wind turbine. The controller, among its main features, is configured to work with the incorporation of different wind inputs; fact that permits evaluating the system response to disturbances and variations. For simulations tests, a 1,5 MW wind turbine has been modeled in Matlab and Fatigue, Aero-dynamics, and Structures and Turbulence FAST software. The strategy has been compared to a PI MPPT controller and has demonstrated improvements in terms of speed and output power extraction.

This article describes the development of a device adaptable to a white cane for guidance and mobility of visually impaired people. The proposal consists of an economical, portable, easy-to-maintain, and non-invasive device designed with a microcontroller which receives and processes signals obtained from an ultrasonic sensor. Similarly, it alerts obstacles’ distances to the user based on ultrasonic measurements. The device is a compact prototype which is adapted to the handle of the white cane and can be removed for a comfortable transportation. The principle of operation is based on the detection of aerial obstacles that represent a threat for the user mobility. The ultrasonic sensor sends the signal to the microcontroller which generates output alerts and transmitted to the user by stimuli which are auditory or haptic. These signals respond to an algorithm implemented in the controller. The device has been designed not to interfere with the user's senses and has been programmed including different alert modes allowing user adaptation. The algorithm has been developed in a C-based programming language, and for the validation of the development, tests have been performed with visually impaired persons to verify the fulfillment of the proposed objectives in this research.

This article presents the development of a device adaptable to a white cane to assist the mobility of blind people. The objective of the proposal is to detect unevenness that represents a risk. The device consists of an optical sensor that sends signals to a microcontroller which generates alerts to the user according to the depth. It includes a distance sensor based on laser imaging detection and ranging (Lidar) technology adapted by a portable and easy-to-maintain mechanism. The proposal has been designed to be non-invasive with the user improving hand posture and avoiding common diseases caused by inadequate postures. In addition, the device includes a wireless charging technology to reduce manipulation by the user. The device incorporates a microcontroller which is responsible for obtaining signals which are processed to generate alerts to the user. The controller algorithm can be customized by users of different builds to allow operation in different conditions. The algorithm controller can be adapted to different users’ physical complexions allowing convenient and extended use. This proposal seeks for a comfortable design allowing the user to maintain the natural hand position, reducing risks of body posture-related disease. The Lidar sensor and the implemented algorithm permit to detect unevenness which is a major threat for mobility. The device has been subjected to various tests using different materials and slopes to verify the correct operation obtaining satisfactory results over refracting surfaces.

The angular distribution of desorbed neutral and ionized polyalanine molecules, initially embedded in a matrix of 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid, has been measured for the first time. The target was irradiated with a pulsed ultraviolet laser beam (355 nm) incident at an angle of 26 ° with respect to the target normal. The desorbed molecules were collected on silica plates in a hemispherical array and the amount of collected material on each plate was determined using a standard amino acid analysis technique. Alanine polypeptides (14–70 residues) were used as analyte in order to increase the sensitivity of the amino acid analysis of the collector plates. In order to desorb more molecules, the laser fluence used was about three to ten times higher than in normal MALDI applications. In the plane encompassing the laser beam and the surface normal, the distribution is shifted about 13 ° towards the incident laser direction, whereas a nearly symmetric angular distribution is observed in the perpendicular plane. The relevance of these results for desorption models is discussed in terms of a recent analysis. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.