Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Distributed Bayesian Quickest Change Detection in Sensor Networks via Two-layer Large Deviation Analysis

We propose a distributed Bayesian quickest change detection algorithm for sensor networks, based on a random gossip inter-sensor communication structure. Without a control or fusion center, each sensor executes its local change detection procedure in a parallel and distributed fashion, interacting with its neighbor sensors via random inter-sensor communications to propagate information. By modeling the information propagation dynamics in the network as a Markov process, two-layer large deviation analysis is presented to analyze the performance of the proposed algorithm. The first-layer analysis shows that the relation between the probability of false alarm and the conditional averaged detection delay satisfies the large deviation principle, implying that the probability of false alarm according to a rare event decays to zero at an exponentially fast rate when the conditional averaged detection decay increases, where the Kullback-Leibler information number is established as a crucial factor. The second-layer analysis shows that the probability of the rare event that not all observations are available at a sensor decays to zero at an exponentially fast rate when the averaged number of communications increases, where the large deviation upper and lower bounds for this rate are also derived, based on which we show that the performance of the distributed algorithm converges exponentially fast to that of the centralized one, by proving that the defined distributed Kullback-Leibler information number converges to the centralized Kullback-Leibler information number.
The ability to inseminate: a comparison between laboratory‐reared and field populations of the Mediterranean Fruitfly (Ceratitis capitata)

Yoram RC)SSLER 1): The ability to inseminate: a comparison between laboratory-reared and field populations of the Mediterranean Fruitfly (Ceratitis capitata). Mass-rearing in the laboratory is a prerequisite for the execution of the Sterile-Male-Release program. Since the laboratory population is generally isolated from the field populations for longer periods and is subjected to different environmental conditions, it is conceivable that partial or even total sexual isolation may evolve between the laboratory and field populations in the course of time. If such barriers are of pre-mating nature this will prove detrimental to the Sterile-Male-Release program as mating and insemination are essential (Curtis, 1971, LaChance, Schmidt & Bushland, 1967). The present experiments were conducted with laboratory population (in short-“Lab”) that has been reared for over 13 years isolated from field populations, and a field population (in short-“Field”) that has been introduced into the laboratory less than a year ago. Both popula-
Artificial neural network analysis on computerized transrectal ultrasound in early detection of prostate cancer

Objective To investigate the application of artificial neural network analysis on computerized transrectal ultrasound (ANNAcTRUS) in early detection of prostate cancer. Methods Sixty men with or without prior biopsies, either due to elevated PSA or abnormal digital rectal findings, were included in this study from January 2014 to July 2015.Patient's mean age was (65.6±8.9) years (51-89 years). Their PSA level was(9.8±4.9)μg/L.The patients received the ANNAcTRUS targeted 6-core biopsy.Each patient received six targeted biopsies of suspicious regions, which was identified by ANNAcTRUS online system.Histopathologic examination was further carried out to confirm the result of the targeted biopsies. Results According to the results of ANNAcTRUS, 52 of 60 patients received biopsy in ANNAcTRUS group.ANNAcTRUS targeted 6-core biopsy was able to detect prostate cancer in 24 (46.2%) of 52 patients.The distribution of Gleason Score was as follows: 3+ 3 (n=9), 3+ 4 (n=8), 4+ 3 (n=4), 4+ 4 (n=2) and 5+ 4 (n=1). For patients without prior negative biopsy, ANNAcTRUS targeted 6-core biopsy was able to detect prostate cancer in 17 (51.5%) of 33 patients. Conclusions ANNAcTRUS targeted 6-core biopsy illustrates a higher detection rate of prostate cancer.Furthermore, ANNAcTRUS targeted 6-core biopsy tends to detect low-grade prostate cancer. Key words: Prostatic neoplasms; Transrectal ultrasound; Early diagnosis; Artificial neural network analysis / computerized transrectal ultrasound
Parent identity and ‘virtual’ children: why patients discard rather than donate unused embryos

BACKGROUND: Many patients prefer to donate unused embryos when surveyed. However, it is a source of frustration and curiosity that clinical audits of embryo outcomes show the majority changed their minds. In many clinics, the number of recipients continues to outweigh the number of donors. To plan effective counselling practices, it is important to understand the dynamics of decision-making for patients when determining outcomes for unused embryos. METHODS: Twelve couples and nine women (n = 33) who had discarded unused embryos were interviewed using a narrative structure and various interview techniques. Interview transcripts underwent qualitative analysis through which data were grouped thematically according to similarities. Differences were also examined. RESULTS: Participants described their initial choice to donate embryos as an idealistic plan rather than a purposeful decision. Their change of mind was due to two factors: (i) a change in their standpoint from a childless couple to parents; and (ii) a change in the symbolism of the embryo from representing a chance to become pregnant to representing a 'virtual' child in cryo-storage. The meaning of embryo donation was likened to child relinquishment. CONCLUSION: Counselling and social policy need to take account of the symbolism of the embryo and reform current practices.
Multiscale Influences of Landscape Composition and Configuration on the Spatial Ecology of Eastern Diamond-backed Rattlesnakes (Crotalus adamanteus)

Abstract Landscape composition and configuration affect ecological processes at the population and community levels, but few studies have demonstrated the effects of landscape pattern on individuals. Because heterogeneity influences abundance and distribution of critical resources, it is hypothesized that it indirectly affects home range size of individuals. To examine the spatial ecology of the declining Eastern Diamond-backed Rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus; EDB), we conducted a two-year study in southwestern Georgia. We obtained home range estimates via radio-telemetry, employed Euclidean distance analysis to examine habitat associations at two spatial scales, and used the software program FRAGSTATS to analyze landscape heterogeneity and examine its effect on home range size. Although no significant habitat associations were detected, there were trends for a positive association with pine habitat at the landscape scale and a negative association with agriculture within the home range. Home range size was negatively correlated with several landscape metrics representing heterogeneity in patch configuration, such that individuals in heterogeneous landscapes had small home ranges. This relationship was strongest at three spatial scales: the first was similar to mean home range size of EDBs; and the others were three and four times as large as the largest home range recorded. Together, these results suggest that management regimes to enhance population densities of EDBs emphasize the preservation of pine uplands, while maintaining a mosaic of other habitat types, and limit the conversion of forest to agriculture. Also, our results underscore the importance of using robust analytical tools and multiscale approaches in studies of spatial ecology.
Effects of long‐term alleviation of nutrient limitation on shoot growth and foliar phenolics of Empetrum hermaphroditum

Alpine tundra ecosystems are characterised by low productivity, due in part to low nutrient availability. These ecosystems are often dominated by 'stress tolerant' species such as Empetrum hermaphroditum, which contribute to stress by producing and releasing biologically active phenolic compounds into the environment. In a nine-year field experiment in alpine tundra, we investigated changes in growth and the levels (concentrations and contents) of foliar redox-active phenolics of current-year shoots of E. hermaphroditum in response to nine long-term environmental manipulation treatments. The treatments were aimed at reducing ecological stresses commonly present in high-latitude ecosystems, primarily stresses associated with low availability of N and other nutrients. Treatments included additions of various forms of N (single and combined applications of NH4+ and NO3-, inorganic N as a component of a full nutrient treatment, and protein as a source of organic N), and additions of glucose, activated carbon, and lime. Shoot growth and levels of foliar phenolics varied greatly between years, but the variation was not clearly explained by the inter-annual variation in macroclimate. Addition of inorganic N generally stimulated growth (especially stem biomass) and increased levels of leaf phenolics. The responses were, however, slow, and varied both between years and between individual inorganic N treatments. Compared to the other treatments, application of inorganic N as a component of a full nutrient treatment had the most consistent positive effect on shoot growth and phenolic content, but it did not affect the concentration of phenolics, suggesting that the treatment did not affect the net rate of phenolic production per unit shoot biomass. During some years of the experiment, the combined application of NH4+ and NO3- resulted in increased production of phenolics per unit biomass accumulation. In contrast to inorganic N fertilisation, application of organic N generally reduced both shoot biomass and phenolic content. Non-N treatments had no substantial effects on either the growth or levels of foliar phenolics of E. hermaphroditum. The observed long-term responses of E. hermaphroditum to environmental manipulation treatments may be important for evaluating potential effects of variation in phenolics production and interference potential of this species under conditions of environmental change and for predicting long-term responses of nutrient-poor communities to environmental changes.
Multilevel particle filter

In this paper the filtering of partially observed diffusions, with discrete-time observations, is considered. It is assumed that only biased approximations of the diffusion can be obtained, for choice of an accuracy parameter indexed by $l$. A multilevel estimator is proposed, consisting of a telescopic sum of increment estimators associated to the successive levels. The work associated to $\mathcal{O}(\varepsilon^2)$ mean-square error between the multilevel estimator and average with respect to the filtering distribution is shown to scale optimally, for example as $\mathcal{O}(\varepsilon^{-2})$ for optimal rates of convergence of the underlying diffusion approximation. The method is illustrated on some toy examples as well as estimation of interest rate based on real S&P 500 stock price data.
Shifts in limiting nutrients in an estuary caused by mixing and biological activity

Simple general equations are used to show that when riverine water mixes with seawater, the N : P ratio is a nonlinear function of salinity. Thus, a shift in the limiting‐nutrient status at a particular salinity along a continuum is a mathematical certainty, albeit complicated by biological consumption and remineralization. The salinity where the shift occurs is a function of biological nutrient uptake ratio. Four general modes, each with a corresponding formula, are deduced here to explain the factors that govern changes in nutrient ratios vs. salinity. These formulas help to explain why changes in the seasonal nutrient limitation status in some estuaries are in some cases triggered by variations in nutrient loading, and in other cases by mixing.
Absolute standards as a useful addition to the avian quantitative PCR telomere assay

Bird populations provide excellent systems to investigate variation in longevity in the wild since individuals can often be monitored over their lifetime. A number of recent studies suggest that the dynamics of protective telomere chromosome caps (telomere length and rate of loss) are indicative of biological state and potentially useful as indicators of future longevity. Currently, Terminal Restriction Fragment (TRF) analysis and relative quantitative PCR (qPCR) are used to measure telomeres in birds, but with limitations. TRF analysis is time consuming, while relative qPCR gives a within-study relative value making it difficult to compare across experiments. Utilising an approach first developed in humans of using synthetic oligomer telomeric (TTAGGG)n and normaliser gene standards of known length to calibrate qPCR values, we describe a methodological adaptation to the avian qPCR telomere assay to make results comparable within, and potentially between, bird species. We evaluate this absolute qPCR method in the Seychelles warbler Acrocephalus sechellensis against relative qPCR measurements on the same samples. Telomere estimates from both methods showed an age-related decline in telomere length, and were highly correlated (r = 0.99). Absolute qPCR avian telomere analysis may prove a useful means of estimating telomere lengths in a calibrated, sensitive, and efficient way using small amounts of archived bird sample.
Changes in the essential oil composition of rose-scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens L'Herit. ex Ait.) due to date of transplanting under hill conditions of Uttarakhand.

A study was carried out to determine the effect of transplanting date on the essential oil composition of rose-scented geranium ( Pelargonium graveolens L’Herit. ex Ait.) cultivar ‘CIM-Pawan’ under hill conditions of Uttarakhand, India. The crops were raised using five months of transplanting, viz. December, January, February, March and April. The oil was extracted by hydro-distillation and analyzed by capillary gas chromatography. The main components of the oil were citronellol (21.3-28.7%), geraniol (23.1-38.4%), linalool (4.2-6.5%), iso -menthone (6.5-7.9%), citronellyl formate (6.3-8.3%), 10-epi -�-eudesmol (4.7-5.6%) and geranyl formate (3.3-4.3%). The results indicated that the essential oil components were affected significantly by transplanting time. The citronellol/geraniol ratio (C: G), quality determining factor was found to vary from 0.55 to 1.16 in these oils which was well within the desired limit. Nevertheless, oil with best C:G ratio was obtained from January (0.99) and February (0.92) planted crops; showing the effect of crop duration.
Social constraints limit dispersal and settlement decisions in a group-living bird species

Dispersal is a fundamental process affecting the genetic structure of populations, speciation, and extinction. Nevertheless, our understanding of the evolution of dispersal is limited by our paucity of knowledge on dispersal decisions at the individual level. We investigated the effect of interactions between residents and juvenile dispersers on individual dispersal and settlement decisions in Siberian jays (Perisoreus infaustus). In this group-living bird species, some offspring remain on the parental territory for up to 3 years (retained juveniles) whereas other offspring disperse within 2 months of fledging (dispersers). We found that retained juveniles constrained settlement decisions of dispersers by aggressively chasing dispersers off their territory, resulting in dispersers continuing to disperse and settling in groups without retained juveniles. Experimental removal of male breeders during the dispersal period also demonstrated that dispersers were unable to settle in high-quality breeding openings, which were instead filled by older nonbreeding residents. Rather, dispersers immigrated into groups without retained offspring where they became subordinate group members, queuing for a breeding opening. Also, they preferably settled in groups with short queues where no same-sex juveniles were present. Dispersal did not inflict a cost to dispersers through increased mortality. However, the presence of immigrants was costly for breeders because it increased the rate of conflicts during the breeding season which negatively affected nestling condition. These results demonstrate that resident individuals constrain both dispersal and settlement decisions of dispersers. Social interactions between residents and dispersers can thus be a key factor to understand the evolution of dispersal. Copyright 2008, Oxford University Press.
TROPICAL RAINFOREST GAPS AND TREE SPECIES DIVERSITY

Evolutionary hypotheses about how so many species of tropical rainforest trees might have arisen include (a) genetic drift (71), (b) habitat specialization (8) in benign environments, or (c) repeated geographic isolation followed by remixing of species during Pleistocene climatic fluctuations (144). Ecological hypotheses about how these species continue to coexist are often cast into equilibrium or non-equilibrium frameworks: Do tropical forests comprise " . sets of highly coevolved niche-differentiated tree species in stable or semistable floristic assemblages," or do they consist of " . diffusely coevolved, broadly generalist species which slowly drift in relative abundance within a few large life-history guilds" (67, 102)? In this context, there has been considerable recent interest in the role of adaptations by species to different regeneration sites in structuring plant assemblages in general (83, 84, 86, 141), and tropical tree communities in particular (62, 89, 90, 150). The immediacy of this interest is heightened by rising rates of deforestation throughout the tropics and a critical need for management strategies of the remaining preserves, for ecologically sound harvesting procedures, and for the tools with which to restore degraded forests. Openings in the forest canopy are widely recognized as important for the establishment and growth of rainforest trees (5, 33, 62, 90). Hartshorn (89) suggests that perhaps 75% of the tree species at La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica are dependent on canopy opening for seed germination or for growth beyond sapling size. Similar statements are found in descriptions of forest dynamics in Queensland, Australia (185), Malaysian dipterocarp forests (195), and West African rain forest (108). Demographic studies demon-
A REVISION OF THE PORTUNUS PELAGICUS (LINNAEUS, 1758) SPECIES COMPLEX (CRUSTACEA: BRACHYURA: PORTUNIDAE), WITH THE RECOGNITION OF FOUR SPECIES

The systematics of the commercially important swimming crab, Portunus pelagicus (Linnaeus, 1758), is revised and four distinct species, P. pelagicus (Linnaeus, 1758), P. segnis (Forskal, 1775), P. reticulatus (Herbst, 1799) and P. armatus (A. Milne-Edwards, 1861), are recognised based on morphological and DNA characters as well as biogeographical considerations. A key to the species is provided. The species can be separated by a combination of characters of the carapace, pereiopods, male abdomen, male fi rst gonopod, and differing colour patterns. Portunus pelagicus sensu stricto is widespread across Southeast and East Asia and is sympatric with P. armatus in the Northern Territory, northern Australia. Portunus armatus is found around most of Australia and east to New Caledonia. Portunus reticulatus occurs in the eastern Indian Ocean and there is evidence that the Bay of Bengal may be a zone of hybridisation for P. pelagicus and P. reticulatus. Portunus segnis appears confi ned to the western Indian Ocean from Pakistan to South Africa, and is a Lessepsian migrant into the Mediterranean from the Red Sea.
Slow Growth and Lack of Recovery in Overfished Holothurians on the Great Barrier Reef: Evidence from DNA Fingerprints and Repeated Large‐Scale Surveys

Abstract: Commercially fished holothurians have important functions in nutrient recycling, which increases the benthic productivity of coral reef ecosystems. Thus, removal of these animals through fishing may reduce the overall productivity of affected coral reefs. To investigate the potential for recovery of overfished holothurian ( Holothuria nobilis) stocks on the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), we (1) conducted field surveys on 23 reefs after fishery closure, (2) modeled total virgin biomass and compared it with the total amount fished, and (3) estimated individual growth rates with a DNA fingerprinting technique. Two years after fishery closure, no recovery of H. nobilis stocks on reefs previously open to fishing was observed. Densities on reefs protected from fishing since the onset of the fishery in the mid 1980s remained about four times higher than on fished reefs. Based on density estimates and geographic information system data on the habitat area of each reef, we calculated that the virgin biomass (in the main fished area between 12° and 19°S) was about 5500 t and is now about 2500 t. The reduction is on the same order of magnitude as the total amount fished until 1999 (approximately 2500 t). The DNA analysis of repeated samples on three locations indicated high recapture rates of fingerprinted and released individuals of H. nobilis. Fitting growth curves with Francis's growth function indicated that medium‐sized individuals (1 kg) grew 35–533 g /year, whereas large animals (2.5 kg) consistently shrank. Small animals (<500 g) were rarely observed. In combination, these data indicate that production of H. nobilis stocks is very low, presumably with low mortality, low recruitment, and slow individual growth rates. Consistent with anecdotal evidence, recovery of H. nobilis stocks on the GBR may take several decades, and we suggest a highly conservative management plan to protect both the stocks and the ecosystem.