Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Large-Scale Data Computing Performance Comparisons on SYCL Heterogeneous Parallel Processing Layer Implementations

Today, many big data applications require massively parallel tasks to compute complicated mathematical operations. To perform parallel tasks, platforms like CUDA (Compute Unified Device Architecture) and OpenCL (Open Computing Language) are widely used and developed to enhance the throughput of massively parallel tasks. There is also a need for high-level abstractions and platform-independence over those massively parallel computing platforms. Recently, Khronos group announced SYCL (C++ Single-source Heterogeneous Programming for OpenCL), a new cross-platform abstraction layer, to provide an efficient way for single-source heterogeneous computing, with C++-template-level abstractions. However, since there has been no official implementation of SYCL, we currently have several different implementations from various vendors. In this paper, we analyse the characteristics of those SYCL implementations. We also show performance measures of those SYCL implementations, especially for well-known massively parallel tasks. We show that each implementation has its own strength in computing different types of mathematical operations, along with different sizes of data. Our analysis is available for fundamental measurements of the abstract-level cost-effective use of massively parallel computations, especially for big-data applications.
Black Trolls Matter: Racial and Ideological Asymmetries in Social Media Disinformation

The recent rise of disinformation and propaganda on social media has attracted strong interest from social scientists. Research on the topic has repeatedly observed ideological asymmetries in disinformation content and reception, wherein conservatives are more likely to view, redistribute, and believe such content. However, preliminary evidence has suggested that race may also play a substantial role in determining the targeting and consumption of disinformation content. Such racial asymmetries may exist alongside, or even instead of, ideological ones. Our computational analysis of 5.2 million tweets by the Russian government-funded “troll farm” known as the Internet Research Agency sheds light on these possibilities. We find stark differences in the numbers of unique accounts and tweets originating from ostensibly liberal, conservative, and Black left-leaning individuals. But diverging from prior empirical accounts, we find racial presentation—specifically, presenting as a Black activist—to be the most effective predictor of disinformation engagement by far. Importantly, these results could only be detected once we disaggregated Black-presenting accounts from non-Black liberal accounts. In addition to its contributions to the study of ideological asymmetry in disinformation content and reception, this study also underscores the general relevance of race to disinformation studies.
Epistemic exclusion: Scholar(ly) devaluation that marginalizes faculty of color.

Faculty of color experience a number of challenges within academia, including tokenism, marginaliza- tion, racial microaggressions, and a disconnect between their racial/ethnic culture and the culture within academia. The present study examined epistemic exclusion as another challenge in which formal institutional systems of evaluation combine with individual biases toward faculty of color to devalue their scholarship and deem them illegitimate as scholars. Using data from interviews with 118 faculty of color from a single predominantly White, research-intensive institution, we found that epistemic exclusion occurs through formal hierarchies that determine how scholarship is valued and the metrics used to assess quality, and through informal processes that further convey to faculty of color that they and their scholarship are devalued. In addition, there was variability in reporting these experiences by race, gender, nationality, and discipline. We found that faculty of color coped with epistemic exclusion by being assertive and by seeking validation and support outside the institution. Finally, participants described a number of negative work-related and psychological consequences of their epistemic exclusion. We discuss epistemic exclusion as a form of academic gatekeeping that impedes the recruitment, advancement, and retention of faculty of color and offer strategies to address this barrier.
Antioxidative Activities and Lactic Acid Bacteria Composition of Fermented Frigate Tuna Auxis thazard (Lacepéde, 1800) at Different Salt-fish Ratios

The antioxidative activities and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) composition of fermented frigate tuna Auxis thazard (Lacepéde, 1800), locally known as tinabal at different salt-fish ratios were investigated. Fresh frigate tuna were gutted and cleaned before the addition of salt at different salt-fish ratios (w/w), (1:3), (1:4), (1:5), (1:6) and fermented at ambient temperature. The LAB viable count increased, and the pH levels decreased with increasing per cent titratable acidity. Isolated LABs were presumptively identified as Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. delbrueckii, Pediococcus pentosaceus, Leuconostoc spp. , Lactobacillus fermentum, and Streptococcus spp. Ethanolic extracts from F3 (1:6) showed favourable antioxidative activities against 2,2’-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6sulfonic acid) (ABTS+) radical and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) radical. Sample F1 (1:4) showed a high reduction of ferric ions, while F2 (1:5) showed favourable activities against singlet oxygen (1O2) radical. In general, F2 (1:5) has favourable LAB composition with a wide range of LABs and high LAB counts. Also, F2 (1:5) has favourable scavenging activities coupled with an increasing degree of hydrolysis (DH) during fermentation. Results showed increasing activities in tinabal during the fermentation process, making it a potential source of antioxidants for industrial uses. Additionally, the LABs in F2 (1:5) indicates its usefulness as a viable source of LAB for applications in other fermented products as starters for improved product quality. These results make tinabal a possible functional food product that could benefit consumers.
Classification of Neurotransmitter Response in Dynamic PET Data Using Machine Learning Approaches

Dynamic positron emission tomography (PET) imaging can be used to quantify changes in synaptic concentrations of endogenous neurotransmitters during cognitive tasks or pharmacological interventions. Existing pharmacokinetic models, such as the linear parametric neurotransmitter PET (lp-ntPET) method, can be used to model the measured dynamic data and characterize small transient changes in neurotransmitter levels. Application of these models to the voxel level is challenging, however, due to the high levels of noise in dynamic data, leading to a high number of false-positive responses (i.e., low specificity). In this article, we investigated the suitability of machine learning algorithms (MLAs), including support vector machine (SVM) classifiers, shallow feedforward neural networks, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and long short-term memory (LSTM) networks, to detect and classify transient changes in voxel-wise time-activity curves. We also investigated whether the reconstruction framework (post versus direct reconstruction) had any impact on the performance of the MLAs. We used computer simulations to generate dynamic PET data, representing a [11C]raclopride study, with known activation responses, across a wide range of noise levels. Different simulated data sets were used to train and test the MLAs across a range of noise levels and activation response magnitudes. Results showed the MLAs offered a large improvement in specificity without a corresponding decrease in sensitivity across all noise levels tested compared to direct application of the lp-ntPET model. They also offered a modest benefit over the currently accepted method (statistical $F$ -test combined with cluster size analysis), for both 2-D+time data when incorporated within direct or post-reconstruction frameworks, and 4-D GATE data.
Performance of Pigeonpea in Sole and Inter Cropping System in Vertisols of Krishna - Godavari Zone in Andhra Pradesh

Pigeonpea, grown as sole crop and as an intercrop with soybean, was sown at four different sowing dates starting from the onset of monsoon during the year 2001–02 and 2002–03 under rainfed conditions. Pigeonpea sown during the last week of July performed better and recorded significantly higher yield and yield attributes like no. of pods per plant, harvest index as compared to two earlier sowings and one later sowing in both the years. Inter cropping of Pigeonpea with soybean and sown during 2nd FN if July recorded higher pigeonpea equivalent yield as compared to sole pigeonpea.
Surveillance of mosquito larvae in various microhabitats in a University Campus in Southwestern Nigeria

Introduction: Mosquitoes, vectors of vital diseases, are among the most deadly animals in the world. Their faunistic composition and prevalence of these mosquitoes are dependent on the characteristics of larval habitats. Objective: To determine how habitats influence the composition, abundance and distribution of the mosquito larvae on Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife campus. Methods: We sampled larvae monthly between 07: 00 and 10:00 (August, 2017 January, 2019) using a standard dipping method. The microhabitats included ground pools, discarded containers, drainage channels and tree holes in each of the study sites. Results: We identified seven species distributed in three genera: Anopheles spp. (Anopheles gambiae, Anopheles funestus); Aedes spp. (Aedes aegypti, Aedes albopictus); Culex sp (Culex pipiens, Culex quinquefasciatus, Culex poicilipe). Culex was the dominant and most abundant genus (48%). Larvae were significantly (p<0,05) more abundant in the dry season. The highest abundance of mosquitoes was recorded in Akintola Hall (50,1%) and drainage channels were the main microhabitat. Location suggests that these species have affinity for humans and their dwellings. Conclusion: We recommend elimination of breeding sites (un-kept drainage channels, leakages and discarded domestic containers).
Polar anchoring energy and tilt angle measured by magneto-optical technique in nematic doped with ionic surfactant

ABSTRACT The surface anchoring of a nematic doped with the ionic surfactant has been investigated and compared with the one in the undoped sample. The director tilt angle at the substrates coated with the orienting polymer film has been determined by the null method in a rotating magnetic field. The Frederiks transition in a magnetic field has been chosen as a convenient technique to measure the polar anchoring energy W θ. The temperature dependences of anchoring energy have been obtained for the various nematic cells. The W θ values for nematic doped with the ionic surfactant are less than for the undoped one. The factors affecting the measurement accuracy have been discussed. The accuracy is higher for the thinner nematic layers and weaker anchoring energy. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Skeletal Deformity in Patients With Unilateral Coronal Craniosynostosis: Perceptions of the General Public

Study Design: A two-alternative forced choice design was used to gather perceptual data regarding unicoronal synostosis (UCS). Objective: Cranial vault remodeling aims at improving the aesthetic appearance of infants with UCS by reshaping the forehead and reducing the potential for psychosocial discrimination. People's perception of craniofacial deformity plays a role in the stigma of deformity. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between objective skull deformity in UCS patients and laypersons’ perception of skull normality. Methods: Forty layperson skull raters were recruited from the general public. Skull raters were asked to categorize 45 infant skull images as normal or abnormal. Twenty-one of the images were UCS skulls, and 24 were normal skulls. Skulls were displayed briefly on a computer to simulate a first impression scenario and generate a perceptual response. A χ 2 analysis and mixed-effects regression model were used to analyze the response data. Results: Members of the general public were good at distinguishing between skull groups, χ 2 (1) = 281.97, P < . 001. In addition, skull raters’ responses were predicted by the severity of deformity in the UCS skulls (b = −0.10, z = −2.6, P = .010, CI: −0.18, −0.02). A skull with a deformity value of 2.8 mm (CI: 1.8, 4.1) was equally likely to be rated normal or abnormal. Conclusions: This is the first study to investigate the relationship between objective skull deformity in UCS and public perception. Laypersons were good at distinguishing the difference between normal and UCS skulls, and their perceptions of normality were predicted by the degree of skull deformity.
Structural and biochemical investigation of protein-RNA interactions

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are nucleic acids that do not code for protein. Rather, they have evolved highly specialised secondary structures and catalytic mechanisms that place them at the heart of regulating gene expression. The function of ncRNAs is often mediated or dependent on their interactions with RNA binding proteins. The study of both the structure and function of these proteins is crucial for understanding the biological role of the protein-RNA complexes. In this thesis, the structure and function of two RNA binding proteins: Lin28 and dihydrouridine synthase C (DusC) were investigated using X-ray crystallography and biophysical techniques. In both systems, the specific recognition of target molecules is important for function. The aim of the study was therefore to use structural and functional data to elucidate the molecular basis of these protein-RNA interactions. There are three main findings: (1) specific recognition of microRNAs by Lin28 is dependent on the interaction of the Zinc Knuckle domain of the protein with a 3’ GGAG motif; (2) non-specific, electrostatic interactions between the cold-shock domain of Lin28 and RNA suggest a transcriptome scanning mechanism for recognising Lin28 targets; and (3) modification of specific nucleotide positions within tRNA by DusC is dependent on the orientation in which the tRNA is bound, which is determined by minor changes in the protein structure. These findings have helped to elucidate the mechanisms, and hence biological functions, of these RNA binding proteins. Both proteins have been previously associated with cancer. Through greater understanding of the molecular basis of these protein-RNA interactions, the production of novel therapeutic agents can be informed, which can help to combat disease. This data will therefore aid future efforts to treat and prevent the cancers caused by the aberrant actions of these RNA binding proteins.
Characterization of Thermotolerant Acetic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Various Plant Beverages in Thailand

Background and objective: Thermotolerant acetic acid bacteria are more resistant to high temperatures than that other bacteria are. This difference includes 5-10oC, which decreases high costs of cooling systems needed for the growth of these bacteria while preserving their high productivity. In this study, effective thermotolerant acetic acid bacteria isolated from various fermented plant beverages were characterized for their ability to produce acetic acid and their characteristics were investigated. Materials and methods: Various thermotolerant acetic acid bacteria isolated from fermented plant beverages samples were investigated for their ability to produce acetic acid at high temperature. Two isolates of Acetobacter pasteurianus were selected and their growth and acetic acid production ability were assessed under various conditions. Furthermore, capsular polysaccharides of these strains were extracted and characterized using gas-liquid chromatography and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Results and conclusion: In this study, Acetobacter pasteurianus and Acetobacter tropicalis were dominant thermotolerant acetic acid bacteria in the fermented plant beverage. Two isolates of Acetobacter pasteurianus , Fermented Plant Beverages 2-3 and 2-16, produced acetic acid effectively at 39°C, compared to that Acetobacter pasteurianus SKU1108 did as a superior control for thermotolerant acetic acid bacteria. Fermented Plant Beverage 2-3 was able to completely oxidize 5% v v -1 ethanol to acetic acid at 39°C, while a long lag time was observed at 6% ethanol. However, production of acetic acid was still up to 4% w v -1 . Moreover, this isolate exhibited excellent resistance to acetic acid at high temperatures, compared to 2 other strains in liquid and solid media. However capsular polysaccharides isolated from the 3 strains included glucose, rhamnose and galactose. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy spectra of capsular polysaccharides from Fermented Plant Beverage 2-3 at 1740 cm -1 identified a clearly different O -acetyl ester. This might be attributed to different O -acetyl ester contents of the capsular polysaccharides and also to resistance to acetic acid and high temperature. Conflict of interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) Extract and Its Major Polyphenols Inhibit Intestinal α‐glycosidases in vitro

Excessive post‐prandial glucose concentration is associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Polyphenols represent a biologically active class of molecules which have been tested as supporting or alternative therapies for a number of chronic diseases. In this work we assessed the acarbose‐like activity of German chamomile extract (GCE) and related polyphenols on intestinal α‐glycosidases as a therapeutic approach for decreasing postprandial hyperglycemia.
Using genetic tools for sustainable management of kelps: a literature review and the example of Lami

Kelp forests are threatened by human activities that result in habitat loss or deplete natural stocks, but little is known about genetic diversity, importance of gene flow and effect of population fragmentation on genetic structure. We reviewed the literature to characterize the patterns of connectivity and scales of population structure in kelps. In all, 44 papers have been published on the patterns of genetic differentiation in 17 kelp species, using various kinds of molecular markers. Our literature review showed that population connectivity depends mainly on species' dispersal abilities and habitat characteristics (intertidal vs. subtidal), but little on their life-span characteristics. Data on within-population gene diversity were found for only seven species and reflect differences in effective population sizes. In addition, we focused on the Brittany populations of Laminaria digitata, one of the most commonly harvested species in Europe, and re-sampled populations studied seven years prior. Our analyses of spatio-temporal variation clearly demonstrate the effect of small population sizes on the genetic instability of isolated L. digitata populations and have implications for managing this genetic resource.
Effects of Local Conspecific Density on Reproductive Success in Penstemon Digitalis and Hesperis Matronalis

We investigated the effects of plant density on reproductive success for two insect-pollinated plant species—the native North American wildflower Penstemon digitalis (Foxglove-leaved Penstemon), and the showy introduced weed Hesperis matronalis (Dame's Rocket). We found no indication that local density (within 3.0 m) affected reproductive success (seeds per fruit, proportion fruit set, total seeds per plant) for either species. Penstemon digitalis suffered heavy fruit predation from micro-lepidopterans, and such damage tended non-significantly to increase with density. We discuss the reasons for our results, and suggest that an understanding of those causes is important for conservation. OHIO J SCI 101 (2):22-27, 200
Genetic Variation and Structure of native and introduced Casuarina equisetifolia (L. Johnson) Provenances

Abstract Casuarina equisetifolia is an important tree species in tropical/subtropical zones of Asia, the Pacific and Africa. In this study, 220 individuals from seven native provenances and eleven introduced provenances of C. equisetifolia were analyzed to assess the genetic variation and structure using amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers. A total of 465 bands were obtained by eight primer pairs, among which 153 were polymorphic. The mean NEI’s gene diversity H = 0.2113 calculated for 18 provenances and the total gene diversity HT = 0.4065 calculated for native provenances suggested abundant variation within provenances and species. High genetic divergence coefficient (GST = 0.4737) and low gene flow (Nm = 0.5555) detected among native provenances suggesting high differentiation of C. equisetifolia. An AMOVA analysis for native provenances revealed a high proportion (46.07%) of the total genetic variation distributed among provenances. The UPGMA clustering (r = 0.8028) and the Mantel test (r = 0.0716) for native provenances showed there was no correlation among genetic relationships and geographical distribution. The genetic information provided important implications for the future conservation and breeding programs of C. equisetifolia.
An Exploration into the Impact of Social Networking Site (SNS) Use on Body Image and Eating Behavior of Physically Active Men

The rapid proliferation of social networking sites (SNSs) has transformed the way people now socialize and communicate. SNSs have been recognized to contribute to body image (BI) dissatisfaction and disordered eating behavior (EB). Few qualitative studies have explored this issue in men. The aim of the current study was to investigate male SNS use and possible impacts on BI and EB. One-to-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight men in the United Kingdom. Interviews aimed to examine men’s views on the potential impact of SNSs on BI and EB. Data were thematically analyzed. Findings suggested that SNSs may be a useful nutrition idea tool and motivational platform for men to improve their diet and exercise uptake. However, results also indicated that SNS use may contribute to BI dissatisfaction and increased risk of disorder. Future research may identify risk factors of SNS use, male BI concerns, and eating pathology across the lifespan.
A Conceptual and Adaptable Approach to Hospital Preparedness for Acute Surge Events Due to Emerging Infectious Diseases

At the time this article was written, the World Health Organization had declared a global pandemic due to the novel coronavirus disease 2019, the first pandemic since 2009 H1N1 influenza A. Emerging respiratory pathogens are a common trigger of acute surge events—the extreme end of the healthcare capacity strain spectrum in which there is a dramatic increase in care demands and/or decreases in care resources that trigger deviations from normal care delivery processes, reliance on contingencies and external resources, and, in the most extreme cases, nonroutine decisions about resource allocation. This article provides as follows: 1) a conceptual introduction and approach to healthcare capacity strain including the etiologies of patient volume, patient acuity, special patient care demands, and resource reduction; 2) a framework for considering key resources during an acute surge event—the “four Ss” of preparedness: space (beds), staff (clinicians and operations), stuff (physical equipment), and system (coordination); and 3) an adaptable approach to and discussion of the most common domains that should be addressed during preparation for and response to acute surge events, with an eye toward combating novel respiratory viral pathogens.