Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Collaborative Content-Dependent Modeling: A Return to the Roots of Salient Object Detection

Salient object detection (SOD) aims to identify the most visually distinctive object(s) from each given image. Most recent progresses focus on either adding elaborative connections among different convolution blocks or introducing boundary-aware supervision to help achieve better segmentation, which is actually moving away from the essence of SOD, i.e., distinctiveness/salience. This paper goes back to the roots of SOD and investigates the principles of how to identify distinctive object(s) in a more effective and efficient way. Intuitively, the salience of one object should largely depend on its global context within the input image. Based on this, we devise a clean yet effective architecture for SOD, named Collaborative Content-Dependent Networks (CCD-Net). In detail, we propose a collaborative content-dependent head whose parameters are conditioned on the input image’s global context information. Within the content-dependent head, a hand-crafted multi-scale (HMS) module and a self-induced (SI) module are carefully designed to collaboratively generate content-aware convolution kernels for prediction. Benefited from the content-dependent head, CCD-Net is capable of leveraging global context to detect distinctive object(s) while keeping a simple encoder-decoder design. Extensive experimental results demonstrate that our CCD-Net achieves state-of-the-art results on various benchmarks. Our architecture is simple and intuitive compared to previous solutions, resulting in competitive characteristics with respect to model complexity, operating efficiency, and segmentation accuracy.
Generation expansion planning with Renewable energy sources using Differential evolution algorithm

Generation Expansion Planning (GEP) is a challenging problem as both supply and demand for energy have temporal and spatial variations. It also involves the integration of system elements with a complex mix of alternative candidate plants having different physical and production capabilities and characteristics. The integration of all such elements in a system framework makes the GEP a large-scale, long-term, non-linear and a mixed-variable mathematical modelling problem. The accurate solution of such realistic models is essential to create an efficient and economic power system. The development of power infrastructure is an essential aspect to sustain the economic growth. In India, majority of the power installations are based on the conventional energy sources like coal, diesel, oil, gas, hydro and nuclear. In recent years, a number of solution methodologies have been proposed to solve the models and to address the efficiency issue. In this research work, Differential Evolution Algorithm (DEA) is applied to solve GEP problem. The DEA outperforms many soft computing techniques, hence it is drawing more attention of the researchers and it has been applied in the solution of GEP in many recent studies. The aim of this study is to analyze the GEP for the candidate system, integrating all critical system elements leading to the formulation of a realistic mathematical system and the employment of GEP in the model solutions. The test system planning is carried out for two different planning horizons of 6 and 14 years respectively. As the system is expected to get an increasing proportion of solar and wind power plants, in future, a special focus is given to study the impact of such increase. The resulting variations in different cost components and the variations in reliability indices are also reported. In the first study, the issue of balance between the benefits of greater solar penetration with the cost of adapting conventional base load systems is investigated. A balanced approach is adopted to understand the long term impact
Using Pre-Calculus and Calculus Student Work to Examine Student Problem Solving Abilities in Online and Face-to-Face Mathematics Courses

USING PRE-CALCULUS AND CALCULUS STUDENT WORK TO EXAMINE STUDENT PROBLEM SOLVING ABILITIES IN ONLINE AND FACE-TO-FACE MATHEMATICS COURSES Sarah Catherine Ferguson Old Dominion University, 2017 Director: Dr. Mary C. Enderson This study compares the outcomes of student learning between two pairs of courses. Each pair of courses consists of an online section and a face-to-face section. One pair of courses focuses on pre-calculus content while the second pair focuses on calculus content. Both pairs of courses are taught by the same instructor using the same course appropriate materials. Participants for this study include 9 online and 14 face-to-face pre-calculus students and 14 online and 23 face-to-face calculus students from an urban community college in the southeastern portion of the U.S. Written responses from the subjects to a collection of problems focusing on solving systems of equations and inequalities (pre-calculus) and integration (calculus) serve as the study data. Adopting a mixed method design, student work was reviewed quantitatively and qualitatively. ANOVA calculations were used to quantitatively compare scores and values earned on each question to look for differences in scores between the online and face-to-face groups. Qualitative reviews were used to analyze closely the work to evaluate problem solving approaches utilized by the students. The study revealed limited differences between the online and face-to-face groups relative to their overall score, their problem solving abilities, and their common errors. The findings of this study are consistent with findings from existing literature
Possible quasi-periodic ejections in quasar B1308+326

Context. The search for periodic features in flux variability and kinematics of superluminal components in blazars is capable of providing significant clues for the understanding of the physical processes in their central engines (black-hole/accretion-disk systems), especially concerning the formation and structure of their relativistic jets and radiation mechanisms. Aims. The jet swing on parsec-scales and the change of the ejection position angle of the superluminal components with time in the quasar B1308+326 ( z = 0.997) are investigated as quasi-periodic behaviors. Methods. A previously published precessing jet nozzle model is applied to model the source kinematics and a possible jet precession period is found. Results. Based on the model fitting of the kinematics for a subset of components, it is shown that their kinematics, including the shape of the inner trajectories and the motion of the components, could be well fitted in terms of the precessing jet nozzle model and a precession period of ~16.9 ± 0.3 yr is derived. Different precession mechanisms are discussed and compared. Conclusions. It is shown that the swing of the ejection position angle of the superluminal knots observed in B1308+326 may be due to the orbital motion of a putative supermassive black hole binary in its nucleus. Some relevant parameters of the binary model are estimated. We also discuss the spin-induced precession mechanism in the single black hole scenario and an estimate for the spin of the Kerr black hole is obtained.
Potential Use of Central American Locust, Schistocerca piceifrons piceifrons, as Food

Abstract. The Central American locust (CAL), Schistocerca piceifrons piceifrons (Walker) (Acrididae: Cyrtacanthacridinae), is a harmful agricultural pest from Mexico to Costa Rica. This study assessed the nutritional contents of the locust. Enzymatic digestibility of hydrosoluble proteins and the antioxidant capacities of the derived peptides were analyzed. Locust flour was used to make corn tortillas to analyze the water retention and physical properties of the tortillas. Protein content was 72.4%, and protein extract yielded 4.77 ± 0.095 mg per gram of dry weight. Trypsin provided the strongest protein digestion at 1 and 3 hours, compared to pepsin. Regarding peptide scavenging ability of free radicals, digestion with trypsin allowed detection of 0.068 and 0.055 mM TE/mg of protein, at digestive times of 1 and 3 hours, respectively. Overall, results were not statistically different. Corn tortillas displayed changes in color and consistency related to quantity of locust flour. When more locust flour was used, more water was lost during the cooking process. The research documents the potential of Central American locust as a protein source and brings the possibility of using this undervalued natural resource. Nutritional content of the CAL were compared to that of other edible insects. Resumen. La langosta Centroamericana (LCA), Schistocerca piceifrons piceifrons (Walker) (Acrididae: Cyrtacanthacridinae), es una plaga agrícola dañina desde México hasta Costa Rica. Este estudio evaluó el contenido nutricional de la langosta. Se analizó la digestibilidad enzimática de las proteínas hidrosolubles y las capacidades antioxidantes de los péptidos derivados. Se utilizó harina de langosta para elaborar tortillas de maíz para analizar la retención de agua y las propiedades físicas de las tortillas. El contenido de proteína fue de 72,4% y el extracto de proteína produjo 4,77 ± 0,095 mg por gramo de peso seco. La tripsina proporcionó la digestión de proteínas más fuerte a 1 y 3 horas, en comparación con la pepsina. En cuanto a la habilidad captadora de péptidos de los radicales libres, la digestión con tripsina permitió detectar 0,068 y 0,055 mM TE/mg de proteína, con tiempos digestivos de 1 y 3 horas, respectivamente. En general, estos resultados no mostraron diferencias estadísticas. Las tortillas de maíz presentaron cambios en color y consistencia en relación con la cantidad de harina de langosta. Cuando se utiliza más harina de langosta, se pierde más agua durante el proceso de cocción. Esta investigación documenta el potencial de la LCA como fuente de proteína y plantea la posibilidad de aprovechar este recurso natural subvaluado. El contenido nutricional de la LCA se comparó con el de otros insectos comestibles.
A Preliminary Review of the Flower Thrips Frankliniella Karny (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) with Taxonomic Updates and Description of Five New Species

Abstract. No comprehensive identification resource is available for the genus Frankliniella. In response, a dynamic internet–based platform with interactive identification tools, species fact sheets and slide preparation tutorials are being developed by the author(s). We reviewed certain type, port interceptions, and origin collected specimens. We attempted to validate species identification using non-destructive DNA extraction and sequencing of both intercepted and field collected specimens. Sequences explicitly linked to a permanently curated morphological voucher specimen were deposited in a public repository (GenBank). The morphological review and genetic analysis revealed that both F. bruneri Watson and F. xanthaner Hood are each likely cryptic species complexes. Five species are described, F. ecuatoriana new species, F. funderburki new species, F. pelucensis new species, F. sanabriana new species and F. suramericana new species. Sequence data are recorded for the holotype specimens of the latter four species. Taxonomic status changes for F. genuina Hood and F. venusta Moulton are provided.
Three types of representation of spin in terms of Majorana fermions and an alternative solution of the Kitaev honeycomb model

Based on the Dirac spinor representation of the SO(4) group, we discuss the relationship between three types of representation of spin in terms of Majorana fermions, namely the Kitaev representation, the SO(3) representation and the SO(4) chiral representation. Comparing the three types, we show that the Hilbert space of the SO(3) representation is different from the other two by requiring pairing of sites, but it has the advantage over the other two in that no unphysical states are involved. As an example of its application, we present a new alternative solution of the Kitaev honeycomb model. Our new solution involves no unphysical states which enables a systematic calculation of physical observables. Finally, we discuss an extension of the model to a more general exactly soluble $Z_{2}$ gauge theory interacting with complex fermions.
Multimodal diagnostics in multiple sclerosis: predicting disability and conversion from relapsing-remitting to secondary progressive disease course – protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

Background The number of patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) has increased significantly over the last decade. The challenge is to identify the transition from relapsing-remitting to secondary progressive MS. Since available methods to examine patients with MS are limited, both the diagnostics and prognostication of disease progression would benefit from the multimodal approach. The latter combines the evidence obtained from disparate radiologic modalities, neurophysiological evaluation, cognitive assessment and molecular diagnostics. In this systematic review we will analyse the advantages of multimodal studies in predicting the risk of conversion to secondary progressive MS. Methods and analysis We will use peer-reviewed publications available in Web of Science, Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Embase and CINAHL databases. In vivo studies reporting the predictive value of diagnostic methods will be considered. Selected publications will be processed through Covidence software for automatic deduplication and blind screening. Two reviewers will use a predefined template to extract the data from eligible studies. We will analyse the performance metrics (1) for the classification models reflecting the risk of secondary progression: sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, positive and negative predictive values; (2) for the regression models forecasting disability scores: the ratio of mean absolute error to the range of values. Then, we will create ranking charts representing performance of the algorithms for calculating disability level and MS progression. Finally, we will compare the predictive power of radiological and radiomical correlates of clinical disability and cognitive impairment in patients with MS. Ethics and dissemination The study does not require ethical approval because we will analyse publicly available literature. The project results will be published in a peer-review journal and presented at scientific conferences. PROSPERO registration number CRD42022354179.
Emulated trial investigating effects of multiple treatments: estimating combined effects of mucoactive nebulisers in cystic fibrosis using registry data

Introduction People with cystic fibrosis (CF) are often on multiple long-term treatments, including mucoactive nebulisers. In the UK, the most common mucoactive nebuliser is dornase alfa (DNase). A common therapeutic approach for people already on DNase is to add hypertonic saline (HS). The effects of DNase and HS used alone have been studied in randomised trials, but their effects in combination have not. This study investigates whether, for people already prescribed DNase, adding HS has additional benefit for lung function or use of intravenous antibiotics. Methods Using UK CF Registry data from 2007 to 2018, we emulated a target trial. We included people aged 6 years and over who were prescribed DNase without HS for 2 years. We investigated the effects of combinations of DNase and HS over 5 years of follow-up. Inverse-probability-of-treatment weighting was used to control confounding. The period predated triple combination CF transmembrane conductance regulator modulators in routine care. Results 4498 individuals were included. At baseline, average age and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1%) predicted were 21.1 years and 69.7 respectively. During first year of follow-up, 3799 individuals were prescribed DNase alone; 426 added HS; 57 switched to HS alone and 216 were prescribed neither. We found no evidence that adding HS improved FEV1% at 1–5 years, or use of intravenous antibiotics at 1–4 years, compared with DNase alone. Conclusion For individuals with CF prescribed DNase, we found no evidence that adding HS had an effect on FEV1% or prescription of intravenous antibiotics. Our study illustrates the emulated target trial approach using CF Registry data.
Memory-type plate system with nonlinear delay

Abstract In this paper we consider a plate equation with infinite memory in the presence of nonlinear feedbacks with and without delay. Under suitable condition on the weight of the delayed feedback compared with the weight of the non-delayed feedback, we use the energy method to establish an explicit and general decay rate result without imposing restrictive assumptions on the behavior of the relaxation function at infinity.
Altered GM1 catabolism affects NMDAR-mediated Ca2+ signaling at ER-PM junctions and increases synaptic spine formation

Endoplasmic reticulum–plasma membrane (ER-PM) junctions mediate Ca2+ flux across neuronal membranes. The properties of these membrane contact sites are defined by their lipid content, but little attention has been given to glycosphingolipids (GSLs). Here, we show that GM1-ganglioside, an abundant GSL in neuronal membranes, is integral to ER-PM junctions; it interacts with synaptic proteins/receptors and regulates Ca2+ signaling. In a model of the neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disease, GM1-gangliosidosis, pathogenic accumulation of GM1 at ER-PM junctions due to β-galactosidase deficiency drastically alters neuronal Ca2+ homeostasis. Mechanistically, we show that GM1 interacts with the phosphorylated NMDAR Ca2+ channel, thereby increasing Ca2+ flux, activating ERK signaling, and increasing the number of synaptic spines without increasing synaptic connectivity. Thus, GM1 clustering at ER-PM junctions alters synaptic plasticity and exacerbates the generalized neuronal cell death characteristic of GM1-gangliosidosis.
Exercise on cytokine responses in males and females: Effect of leucine, HMB and BCAA

Purpose To identify the effects of leucine, β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate (HMB) and branched chain amino acid (BCAA) on post-exercise cytokine responses in females and males. Methods Males (n=53) and females (n=37) completed 100 drop jumps and consumed either no supplement, leucine (3g/d), HMB (3g/d) or BCAA (4.5g/d) from 1d pre to 14d post-exercise. Muscle soreness, squat jumps, chair rises and creatine kinase (CK) were measured at pre, post, 24h, 48h, 7 and 14d. Blood lactate (pre, post), 10 cytokines (pre, 24h, 48h, 7d) and oestradiol (pre, 7d) were also measured. Results Without supplementation post-exercise, soreness was induced in both males (6-fold) and females (5-fold). With supplementation, there were no increases in CK or oestradiol in females and no impact on muscle soreness, performance, or function in both sexes. In males, CK was elevated in untreated (48%) and leucine (69%) conditions vs baseline, but these were suppressed with HMB and BCAA. IL-7 was elevated in females vs males at baseline (6.3-fold), leucine increased IL-7 concentrations in females at 24h (17.0-fold), 48h (5.1-fold) vs males. With HMB, TNFr1-α increased in females at 24h (2.2-fold), 48h (2.3-fold) and 7d (2.3-fold) vs males. In males with BCAA, TNFr1-α decreased (P=0.06) from pre to 24h (6.8-fold), then increased (P<0.05) from 24 to 48h (8.0-fold). Conclusion Although supplements were without effect on soreness following exercise, the cytokine response was evoked by exercise and impacted significantly by leucine, HMB and BCAA in females vs males. This improved cytokine response in females could lead to improved resistance to damage.
Cross-Modal Interactions Between Auditory Attention and Oculomotor Control

Microsaccades are small, involuntary eye movements that occur during fixation. Their role is debated with recent hypotheses proposing a contribution to automatic scene sampling. Microsaccade inhibition (MSI) refers to the abrupt suppression of microsaccades, typically evoked within 0.1 seconds after new stimulus onset. The functional significance and neural underpinnings of MSI are subjects of ongoing research. It has been suggested that MSI is a component of the brain’s attentional re-orienting network which facilitates the allocation of attention to new environmental occurrences by reducing disruptions or shifts in gaze that could interfere with processing. The extent to which MSI is reflexive or influenced by top-down mechanisms remains debated. We developed a task that examines the impact of auditory top-down attention on MSI, allowing us to disentangle ocular dynamics from visual sensory processing. Participants (N=24 and 27; both sexes) listened to two simultaneous streams of tones and were instructed to attend to one stream while detecting specific task “targets. ” We quantified MSI in response to occasional task-irrelevant events presented in both the attended and unattended streams (frequency steps in Experiment 1, omissions in Experiment 2). The results show that initial stages of MSI are not affected by auditory attention. However, later stages (∼0.25s post event-onset), affecting the extent and duration of the inhibition, are enhanced for sounds in the attended stream compared to the unattended stream. These findings provide converging evidence for the reflexive nature of early MSI stages and robustly demonstrate the involvement of auditory attention in modulating the later stages. Significance Statement Microsaccades are rapid eye movements occurring during fixation. Their precise role is not known but a major hypothesis is that they reflect automatic sampling of the environment. A feature of microsaccades is that they exhibit abrupt suppression (MSI) after the presentation of new stimuli. This is thought to be part of attentional re-orienting. To understand the neural circuit that controls MSI, and by extension, the brain’s response to novel events in the environment, it is essential to determine which factors affect MSI. We show, for the first time, that auditory attention affects the latter (but not initial) stages of MSI. Thus, the early stages of MSI are automatic, but subsequent phases are affected by the perceptual state of the individual.
Chromatin remodeling of histone H3 variants underlies epigenetic inheritance of DNA methylation

Epigenetic inheritance refers to the faithful replication of DNA methylation and histone modification independent of DNA sequence. Nucleosomes block access to DNA methyltransferases, unless they are remodeled by DECREASE IN DNA METHYLATION1 (DDM1Lsh/HELLS), a Snf2-like master regulator of epigenetic inheritance. We show that DDM1 activity results in replacement of the transcriptional histone variant H3.3 for the replicative variant H3.1 during the cell cycle. In ddm1 mutants, DNA methylation can be restored by loss of the H3.3 chaperone HIRA, while the H3.1 chaperone CAF-1 becomes essential. The single-particle cryo-EM structure at 3.2 Å of DDM1 with a variant nucleosome reveals direct engagement at SHL2 with histone H3.3 at or near variant residues required for assembly, as well as with the deacetylated H4 tail. An N-terminal autoinhibitory domain binds H2A variants to allow remodeling, while a disulfide bond in the helicase domain is essential for activity in vivo and in vitro. We show that differential remodeling of H3 and H2A variants in vitro reflects preferential deposition in vivo. DDM1 co-localizes with H3.1 and H3.3 during the cell cycle, and with the DNA methyltransferase MET1Dnmt1. DDM1 localization to the chromosome is blocked by H4K16 acetylation, which accumulates at DDM1 targets in ddm1 mutants, as does the sperm cell specific H3.3 variant MGH3 in pollen, which acts as a placeholder nucleosome in the germline and contributes to epigenetic inheritance.