Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)-Based Methods for Solar Induced Chlorophyll Fluorescence (SIF) Retrieval with Non-Imaging Spectrometers: State of the Art

Chlorophyll fluorescence (ChlF) information offers a deep insight into the plant physiological status by reason of the close relationship it has with the photosynthetic activity. The unmanned aerial systems (UAS)-based assessment of solar induced ChlF (SIF) using non-imaging spectrometers and radiance-based retrieval methods, has the potential to provide spatio-temporal photosynthetic performance information at field scale. The objective of this manuscript is to report the main advances in the development of UAS-based methods for SIF retrieval with non-imaging spectrometers through the latest scientific contributions, some of which are being developed within the frame of the Training on Remote Sensing for Ecosystem Modelling (TRuStEE) program. Investigations from the Universities of Edinburgh (School of Geosciences) and Tasmania (School of Technology, Environments and Design) are first presented, both sharing the principle of the spectroradiometer optical path bifurcation throughout, the so called ‘Piccolo-Doppio’ and ‘AirSIF’ systems, respectively. Furthermore, JB Hyperspectral Devices’ ongoing investigations towards the closest possible characterization of the atmospheric interference suffered by orbital platforms are outlined. The latest approach focuses on the observation of one single ground point across a multiple-kilometer atmosphere vertical column using the high altitude UAS named as AirFloX, mounted on a specifically designed and manufactured fixed wing platform: ‘FloXPlane’. We present technical details and preliminary results obtained from each instrument, a summary of their main characteristics, and finally the remaining challenges and open research questions are addressed. On the basis of the presented findings, the consensus is that SIF can be retrieved from low altitude spectroscopy. However, the UAS-based methods for SIF retrieval still present uncertainties associated with the current sensor characteristics and the spatio-temporal mismatching between aerial and ground measurements, which complicate robust validations. Complementary studies regarding the standardization of calibration methods and the characterization of spectroradiometers and data processing workflows are also required. Moreover, other open research questions such as those related to the implementation of atmospheric correction, bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) correction, and accurate surface elevation models remain to be addressed.
Detection of sacbrood virus and the incidence of sacbrood disease in Apis mellifera colonies in the North-Western Himalayas

Summary We report the presence of sacbrood virus (SBV) in colonies of the western honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) from the North Western Himalayan region of India. As in other regions of the world, the virus killed honey bee brood at the prepupal stage (10 days of age) on the second day after the sealing of brood. In 2003, SBV was detected at two locations in Himachal Pradesh. At the first location, Solan district, Nauni, it was detected in colonies during spring and summer (March to May) when it affected 0.39 % to 5.20 % of the brood. At the second location, Kangra district, Jachh (Himachal Pradesh), the disease was also detected during spring and summer (March to June) when it affected 0.23 % to 2.10 % of brood. The incidences of the disease were found to be significantly correlated with colony strength and brood rearing.
The Correlation between sST2 and Atrial Fibrillation and Its Clinical Significance

Objective: To explore the level of soluble growth-stimulated expression gene 2 (sST2) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and its relationship with atrial remodeling. Methods: From December 2018 to July 2019, 86 patients were enrolled in the cardiovascular department of Jingzhou Central Hospital in Hubei Province. AF group was 60 patients with AF diagnosed according to the diagnostic criteria of electrophysiology and pacing branch of Chinese Medical Association, while the control group was 26 normal ECG patients with sinus rhythm examined by ECG and/or DCG. Clinical data, NT proBNP and birth rate of all patients were collected chemical indicators. All the patients in the groups were examined by ECG and color Doppler echocardiography. The serum level of ST2 was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the indexes related to atrial remodeling in echocardiography, left atrial diameter (LAD), were collected, compared and analyzed. Results: Serum sST2 levels and LAD and RAD values in the AF group were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Serum sST2 levels were higher in the AF group than in the paroxysmal atrial fibrillation group (P = 0.031). 1) The sST2 level was positively correlated with LAD and RAD measured by cardiac ultrasound (r = 0.388, P = 0.029). Conclusion: Serum sST2 levels have early recognition value in patients with high-risk atrial fibrillation, which contributes to the stratification of risk of atrial fibrillation and the prediction of disease activity. Elevated serum sST2 levels may be associated with atrial remodeling. sST2 may be an objective biomarker that predicts the risk of emergency admission in patients with atrial fibrillation. Elevated sST2 levels may be associated with atrial fibrillation progression.
Scabies Infection in Thi-Qar Province

Aim: This study was conducted to detect the frequency of mange (scabies) in the province of Thi Qar and the most commonly used treatment for it, in addition to measuring the IL-4 levels of selected patients and healthy people as representative marker for activation TH2 and subsequent hypersensitivity reaction. Methodology: A total of 624 patients with scabies attended the dermatology and venereal department at Al-Hussein teaching hospital in Thi-Qar Governorate, Most of the patients received topical treatment and a few resistant patients received oral treatment. Fourty of them were selected to measure the levels of IL-4 in serum in addition to forty healthy people as control samples by ELISA. The results: found that the maximum number of scabies patients was reported within age group 11-20 years 143 (22.9 %), the mange frequency was 55.9% in males and 44.1% in females. Topical 5-10% sulfur treatment was the used treatment in 61.7% of patient. Also, The finding of current study demonstrated increase in the serum level of IL-4 in mange patients serum (902.925 ±83.494pg/ml) comparing with healthy (366.950± 41.674). Conclusion: Scabies was high in individuals younger than 20 and children which can identified as high-risk category. Topical 5-10% mass treatment is the best suggested treatment for scabies patients in Thi-Qar, also an elevated levels of IL-4 is indication of activation of TH2 that induce hypersensitivity reaction by IgE production.
Investigations on integrated control of witches' broom disease of cocoa in Rondonia state, Brazil.

Abstract Investigations were conducted in Rondonia State, Brazil, for two years to evaluate the effectiveness of integrated control involving phytosanitation and fungicide sprays in reducing pod losses due to witches’ broom disease of cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) caused by Crinipellis perniciosa (Stahel) Singer. The fungicides tested were cuprous oxide, tebuconazole and tank mixtures of cuprous oxide with tebuconazole or chlorothalonil. All fungicide treatments significantly reduced the incidence of pod disease in both years. However, use of integrated measures clearly exerted more disease control than fungicide use alone. None of the formulations tested protected the vegetative shoots from infection. Cuprous oxide was seen as the fungicide most likely to be adopted for commercial use. The results are discussed with suggestions for further investigations on chemical control of witches’ broom disease.
Negative and Positive Photoconductivity and Memristor Effect in Alloyed GeO[SiO] Films Containing Ge Nanoclusters

Metal–insulator–semiconductor (MIS) structures based on GeO[SiO] films containing amorphous Ge nanoclusters are fabricated on n+‐Si(100) substrate by co‐evaporation of GeO2 and SiO powders in ultra‐high vacuum. Indium tin oxide (ITO) top electrodes are deposited using magnetron sputtering. According to Raman data, annealing at 500 °C for 20 min leads to an increase in amorphous Ge volume. Current–voltage characteristics provide clear evidence of resistive switching (memristor effect) in the annealed MIS structure after the forming procedure. Both negative and positive photoconductivities are observed in the MIS structure before forming when both negative/positive voltage biases are applied to the top ITO electrode. This is possibly due to light‐stimulated recharging of holes originating from Ge‐nanoclusters, which act as traps.
Downwards force–displacement response of buried pipelines during dip–slip faulting in sandy soil

In the numerical analysis of underground pipelines against dip-slip faulting, it is common practice to model the problem as a beam surrounded by soil-equivalent nonlinear springs. Previous studies have recognised the importance of the vertical bearing soil springs (VBSS) in the modelling of pipe–fault interaction. Nevertheless, prior studies on VBSS are limited. This study presents an analytical framework for determining a hyperbolic force–displacement (P–y) curve for VBSS in dry sand. This hyperbolic criterion was established based on the ultimate bearing resistance (UBR) of pipe and the elastic subgrade modulus of the soil. Different mechanisms such as flow, arching, bearing, and friction, and various parameters like soil compressibility, pipe–soil relative stiffness, and soil elastic properties have been used in the determination of these two parameters. The P–y curves were verified and calibrated with experimental data. More reliable curves have been obtained compared to the existing methods. A numerical study was also performed to compare the current study with a pipeline seismic design guideline. The results of the current study method are in good agreement with sample experimental data compared to the seismic guideline.
Nitrogen Influences Bispyribac-Sodium Efficacy and Metabolism in Annual Bluegrass (Poa annua) and Creeping Bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera)

Abstract Field and laboratory experiments were conducted in New Jersey to investigate the influence of nitrogen on annual bluegrass and creeping bentgrass metabolism and responses to bispyribac-sodium. In field experiments, withholding nitrogen during the test period increased sensitivity of both grasses to bispyribac-sodium, and grasses fertilized biweekly had darker color on most rating dates. Nitrogen generally increased annual bluegrass tolerance to bispyribac-sodium at 74 g ha−1 but not at 148 g ha−1. Creeping bentgrass was influenced by nitrogen at both herbicide rates. In laboratory experiments, weekly nitrogen treatments increased 14C-bispyribac-sodium metabolism in both grasses compared to unfertilized plants. Annual bluegrass metabolized approximately 50% less herbicide regardless of nitrogen regime compared to creeping bentgrass. Overall, routine nitrogen fertilization appears to improve annual bluegrass and creeping bentgrass tolerance to bispyribac-sodium, which may be attributed to higher metabolism. Nomenclature: Bispyribac-sodium; annual bluegrass, Poa annua L. ; creeping bentgrass, Agrostis stolonifera L. , ‘L-93’.
Flatness of Facial Skeletons of Ryukyuans

Following the method of Yamaguchi (1973), a series of facial flatness measurements were taken from crania from the islands of Amami, Okinawa and Sakishima of the Ryukyu Islands. These measurements were compared with each other and with measurements of cranial series from other Japanese Islands, insular and continental Northeast Asia and Europe. Among the three Ryukyuan samples, the facial skeletons of Sakishima are least flattened. Nevertheless, the Ryukyuans as a whole show far flatter faces than Ainu. The extent of Ryukyuan facial flatness is comparable to that of the so-called “Northern Mongoloid”. In addition to the previous cranial nonmetric study (Dodo and others, 1998), the present study of facial flatness also does not give any indication of a close affinity between the Ainu and Ryukyuans.
The stability of hepatitis C virus RNA after storage at +4 °C

One of the major issues in nucleic acid testing is how to store blood samples to obtain reliable results. We therefore studied hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA concentration in samples after storage at +4 °C or freezing and thawing. Six HCV RNA‐positive, untreated subjects were studied. Blood samples were collected from these subjects in plasma preparation tubes. The HCV RNA concentration was analysed after storage at +4 °C for 168 h or after five freeze–thaw cycles. For HCV RNA quantification we used a qualitative and a quantitative commercial test. After 168 h of storage at +4 °C, the HCV RNA concentration was similar to that observed at time‐point 0 (5.025 log vs 5.492 log). In one sample we observed a significant fall in HCV RNA concentration. After five freeze–thaw cycles, the HCV RNA concentration was lower than that observed at time‐point 0 (4.454 log vs 5.492 log) and in four samples we observed a significant fall in HCV RNA concentration. Our data suggest that HCV RNA is stable in whole blood samples stored at +4 °C for 168 h. Based on our results, we conclude that the standard procedures for transport of blood samples (at room temperature for a maximum of 5 h) and storage schedules (+4 °C for a maximum of 48 h) can be maintained without compromising the quality of results.
Moving the Customer Experience Field Forward: Introducing the Touchpoints, Context, Qualities (TCQ) Nomenclature

In response to initial voices that put the customer experience (management) (CX(M)) movement into question, this article aims to introduce a formal nomenclature to push the CX(M) field toward a more mature state. First, drawing from an inductive analysis of 143 CX(M) papers, the authors identify 12 basic CX components that aggregate into three overarching building blocks—touchpoints (T, i.e., points of interaction between the customer and brand/firm), context (C, i.e., situationally available resources internal and/or external to the customer), and qualities (Q, i.e., attributes that reflect the nature of customer responses and reactions to interactions with the brand/firm). The TCQ nomenclature offers a language to make CX actionable, moving beyond the breadth of the current definition and frameworks by disentangling CX into small bite-sized chunks (i.e., the CX components) that any academic and practitioner, regardless of their discipline, may understand and use to discuss and manage CX. Second, using the TCQ nomenclature, the authors assess the current state of the CX(M) literature and identify mature (e.g., firm-controlled touchpoints and cognitive and emotional qualities associated with CX) and underdeveloped (e.g., nonfirm controlled touchpoints and the market and environmental context in which CX emerges) areas ripe for future research. In addition, they also provide a set of recommendations to strengthen the methodological rigor of the field. Third, the TCQ nomenclature may support managers in auditing their current CXM practices and/or serve as a basis for CX design and innovation.
Maize responses to a severe isolate of maize chlorotic dwarf virus

The results of incidence ratings to assess the host response of maize (Zea mays L.) to natural infection, or to controlled inoculation in either the field or the greenhouse, with maize chlorotic dwarf virus (MCDV) appear inconsistent for identification of resistant or tolerant responses. Our objective was to determine whether assessment of the severity of three symptoms on the leaves (veinbanding, chlorosis, and twisting of the leaf and tearing of the leaf margin) would consistently allow differentiation of the host response of maize inbreds and hybrids to inoculation with two isolates of MCDV. Symptom severity was assessed using a 1 to 5 visual rating for each of the three symptoms at three to four time intervals after controlled inoculation with a severe isolate of MCDV in both greenhouse and field experiments [. ]
Relative brain size and ecology in birds

We test the hypothesis that the relative sizes of the different parts of the brain (brain stem, optic lobes, cerebellum and cerebral hemispheres), measured after body size effects have been removed, are associated with differences in behaviour and ecology across bird species. The results demonstrate that behavioural and ecological correlates of relative brain size are not independent of each other. When the effects of variation in other categories are accounted for, the strongest single effect is due to relatively large brain sizes being associated with altricial development. It is unlikely that this effect is due to the confounding influence of taxonomic associations. Overall, the results do not provide support for the idea that differences in measures of environmental complexity select for differences in relative brain size.
Potential of Methylglyoxal-Conjugated Chitosan Nanoparticles in Treatment of Fluconazole-Resistant Candida albicans Infection in a Murine Model

Background Fungal infections are becoming more prevalent and threatening because of the continuous emergence of azole-resistant fungal infections. The present study was aimed to assess the activity of free Methylglyoxal (MG) or MG-conjugated chitosan nanoparticles (MGCN) against fluconazole-resistant Candida albicans. Materials and Methods A novel formulation of MGCN was prepared and characterized to determine their size, shape and polydispersity index. Moreover, the efficacy of fluconazole or MG or MGCN was determined against intracellular C. albicans in macrophages and the systematic candidiasis in a murine model. The safety of MG or MGCN was tested in mice by analyzing the levels of hepatic and renal toxicity parameters. Results Candida albicans did not respond to fluconazole, even at the highest dose of 20 mg/kg, whereas MG and MGCN effectively eliminated C. albicans from the macrophages and infected mice. Mice in the group treated with MGCN at a dose of 10 mg/kg exhibited a 90% survival rate and showed the lowest fungal load in the kidney, whereas the mice treated with free MG at the same dose exhibited 50% survival rate. Moreover, the administration of MG or MGCN did not induce any liver and kidney toxicity in the treated mice. Conclusion The findings of the present work suggest that MGCN may be proved a promising therapeutic formulation to treat azole-resistant C. albicans infections.
Contrasting trajectories of morphological diversification on continents and islands in the Afrotropical white‐eye radiation

Morphological and lineage evolution are predicted to follow different patterns in island and mainland radiations. However, the extent to which these geographical contexts influence evolutionary trajectories remains poorly understood, in part because few studies have focused on species‐rich clades colonizing continents and archipelagos over comparable timeframes. Focusing on a diverse songbird clade radiating on the African continent and adjacent islands, we tested whether morphological evolution is best explained by adaptive or non‐adaptive processes, and whether mainland and island lineages evolved to occupy different regions or volumes of morphological space (morphospace).
Keep it real: selecting realistic sets of urban green space indicators

With increasing urbanisation, urban green spaces are expected to be crucial for urban resilience and sustainability, through the delivery of ecological, economic and social benefits. In practice, however, planning, management and evaluation of urban green spaces are rarely structured and evidence-based. This represents a missed opportunity to account for, track and foster the multiple benefits that green spaces are expected to deliver. To gain insight into this gap, this study assesses the availability and uptake of relevant evidence by city governments. Interviews, focus groups and quantitative surveys were applied in four medium-sized European cities: Coimbra (Portugal), Genk (Belgium), Leipzig (Germany), and Vilnius (Lithuania), covering the main governance and climatic gradients in Europe. Using straightforward data exploration and regression, we analyse which ecological, economic and social indicators are typically chosen by cities and why. Together with the city stakeholders, we derived a common set of benefit categories and key performance indicators which can be adapted to diverse local contexts. We conclude that cities tend to make pragmatic decisions when composing their indicator sets, but nevertheless cover multiple urban green space dimensions. Finally, we explore how indicator choice could be optimised towards a complementary and credible indicator set, taking into account a realistically feasible monitoring effort undertaken by the cities.
Ocean climate anomalies and the ecology of the North Sea

Long-term changes in the plankton of the North Sea are investigated using data from the continuous plankton recorder (CPR) survey. During the last 4 decades, there appears to have been 2 large anomalous periods within the plankton data set, one that occurred in the late 1970s and the other in the late 1980s. These anomalous periods seem to be largely synchronous with unusual ocean climate conditions that have occurred episodically over a timescale of decades. The unusual ocean climate conditions prevailing at these 2 time periods appear to contain important hydrographical elements that involve oceanic incursions into the North Sea. This paper, using data from the CPR survey and providing evidence from other studies, focuses on the relationship between the long-term changes in the biology of the North Sea and these 2 exceptional hydro-climatic events. Here, we suggest that while atmospheric variability and associated changes in regional temperatures have a dominant effect on the marine environment, oceanic influences on the ecology of a semi-closed environment such as the North Sea may have been underestimated in the past.
Nutrient Content and in vitro Dry Matter Digestibility of Silages Made from Various Grain Sorghum and Sweet Sorghum Cultivars

ABSTRACT In the tropics, sorghum is an important grain and forage crop. However, information on silage made from various cultivars including nutrient content and digestibility for livestock is not available. Therefore, silages made from eleven grain sorghum (Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench) and ten sweet sorghum varieties were studied to determine the effect of sorghum variety and type on nutrient content and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD). Silage samples were analyzed for Ca, P, Mg, K, Mg, crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), gross energy (GE), neutral-detergent fiber (NDF), acid-detergent fiber (ADF), cellulose, acid-detergent lignin (ADL) and IVDMD. Results from silage analysis revealed significant (P < 0.05) varietal differences in CP, Ca, P, Mg, K, Na, GE, ash, NDF, ADL, cellulose, hemicellulose contents and IVDMD among grain sorghum varieties. However, the silage values for EE and NDF contents were not significantly different. Similarly, sweet sorghum varieties were significantly different (P < 0.05) in all of the above variables. Among sorghums, grain sorghum silage had higher (P < 0.05) CP, Ca, P, K, Na and IVDMD and lower (P < 0.05) NDF, ADF, cellulose and GE than sweet sorghum silage.