Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Complex Wavefront Shaping through a Multi-Core Fiber

Wavefront shaping through a multi-core fiber (MCF) is turning into an attractive method for endoscopic imaging and optical cell-manipulation on a chip. However, the discrete distribution and the low number of cores induce pixelated phase modulation, becoming an obstacle for delivering complex light field distributions through MCFs. We demonstrate a novel phase retrieval algorithm named Core–Gerchberg–Saxton (Core-GS) employing the captured core distribution map to retrieve tailored modulation hologram for the targeted intensity distribution at the distal far-field. Complex light fields are reconstructed through MCFs with high fidelity up to 96.2%. Closed-loop control with experimental feedback denotes the capability of the Core-GS algorithm for precise intensity manipulation of the reconstructed light field. Core-GS provides a robust way for wavefront shaping through MCFs; it facilitates the MCF becoming a vital waveguide in endoscopic and lab-on-a-chip applications.
Telling visual stories of loss and hope: body mapping with mothers about contact after child removal

Visual research methods reduce reliance on verbal communication and offer an avenue for non-verbal storytelling. Body mapping is a visual arts-based research method with its origins in art therapy and community development. It has been successfully used to explore embodied experiences of marginalised social groups. Participants engage in sensory and multimodal storytelling by tracing a life-size body outline and adorning it with fabrics, drawings and images to symbolise their views during a guided interview. This approach was used in research to explore birth family contact experiences in New South Wales, where children have ongoing direct contact with birth relatives in long-term care, guardianship and open adoption. Twelve mothers of children in permanent care took part in body mapping to explore their feelings about contact and the support they need to nurture a relationship with their children. Immersion in the artistic process of bringing a representational body to life granted these mothers access to hidden memories about their experience of child removal. They used evocative images to depict system violence and their fight against the erasure of their mother identity as well to envision a positive future relationship with their children. Body mapping potently revealed that traumatic loss resides in the body and resurfaces in encounters with child welfare systems. This has important policy and practice implications, highlighting a need for post-removal therapeutic services to process trauma and sensitive casework to rebuild parent trust and to help carers respond with empathy to their child’s mother at contact. This lends support to the usefulness of body mapping not only for research with vulnerable parents, but to its enormous potential as a creative engagement tool for child welfare practitioners.
Near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy Studies of Chinese Giant Salamanders in Aquaculture Production

Carrie K. Vance, Andrew J. Kouba, Hong-Xing Zhang, Hu Zhao, Qijun Wang and Scott T. Willard Research and Conservation Department, Memphis Zoological Society, Memphis, TN 38112, USA. E-mail: ckvance@memphiszoo.org Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State University, MS 39762, USA. E-mail: ckv7@msstate.edu Animal and Dairy Science, Mississippi State University, MS 39762, USA. E-mail: ckv7@msstate.edu Shaanxi Institute of Zoology, 88 Xingqing Road, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province 710032, China
The role of partnering and assortative mating for income inequality: The case of Finland, 1991–2014

Previous studies covering various developed countries suggest that changes in assortative mating by education have contributed only a little to the changes in income inequality, opposite to the expectations of many. In this paper we consider two potential reasons for the zero effects: (a) that it is the selection into partnership rather than assortative mating according to specific characteristics that matters; and (b) that for assortative mating to matter, a broader spectrum of matching characteristics than just education should be considered, such as matching by employment and social origin. We study these assumptions using register data on household income inequalities, education, employment and parental class background in Finland 1991–2014. We analyze men and women separately and focus on individuals aged 35–40. We concentrate on between-group income inequality as measured by the Theil index. The results suggest that partnership is an important factor behind income inequality, and changes in selection into partnership can explain a substantial part of the changes in income inequality. Assortative mating does not matter as much, even if more sorting characteristics are taken into account. Social origin contributes very little to the income inequality of families in Finland
Push Endoscopic Button Gastrostomy in Childhood: Fewer Complications than Historical Surgical Techniques?

Background/purpose: There is no consensus when it comes to the best procedure or device used for gastrostomy creation in pediatrics. We compared the complications encountered with different gastrostomy techniques. Methods: All paediatric patients having had a gastrostomy procedure between 2004 and 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Overall, serious and local complication rates at six months were compared between PEG-button (PEG-B), pullPEG tube (PEG-T) and surgical gastrostomies with buttons (SG-B). Results: Complications occurred in 44.6% of the patients. The rate of overall complications (71.4% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.02) as well as minor complications (93.3% vs. 69.0%, p < 0.01) was higher in the PEG-B group (63 patients) compared to the PEG-T group (58 patients) but similar to the SG-B group (83 patients). Serious complications mainly occurred in the PEG-T group (31.0% vs. 6.7%, p < 0.01). Risk factors for overall complications were being a female (Odds ratio (OR) 2.62, p < 0.01) and a concomitant fundoplication (OR 8.94, p = 0.04), whereas serious complications were favoured by the use of a G-tube (OR 3.78, p = 0.01). Conclusions: A PEG-B is a simple and safe way for enteral nutrition, with a slightly higher rate of local, but less serious, complications than the classic pull-PEG technique.
Determination of Water Depth in Ports Using Satellite Data Based on Machine Learning Algorithms

One of the fundamental maintenance tasks of ports is the periodic dredging of them. This is necessary to guarantee a minimum draft that will enable ships to access ports safely. The determination of bathymetries is the instrument that determines the need for dredging and permits an analysis of the behavior of the port bottom over time, in order to achieve adequate water depth. Satellite data processing to predict environmental parameters is used increasingly. Based on satellite data and using different machine learning algorithm techniques, this study has sought to estimate the seabed in ports, taking into account the fact that the port areas are strongly anthropized areas. The algorithms that were used were Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF) and the Multi-Adaptive Regression Splines (MARS). The study was carried out in the ports of Candás and Luarca in the Principality of Asturias. In order to validate the results obtained, data was acquired in situ by using a single beam provided. The results show that this type of methodology can be used to estimate coastal bathymetry. However, when deciding which system was best, priority was given to simplicity and robustness. The results of the SVM and RF algorithms outperform those of the MARS. RF performs better in Candás with a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.27 cm, whereas SVM performs better in Luarca with a mean absolute error of 0.37 cm. It is suggested that this approach is suitable as a simpler and more cost-effective rough resolution alternative, for estimating the depth of turbid water in ports, than single-beam sonar, which is labor-intensive and polluting.
Native flowering shrubs promote beneficial insects in avocado orchards

Flower strips can promote and conserve beneficial insects in agroecosystems. Knowing which groups are favoured and which plant traits affect visitation rates by beneficial insects is important for the design of plant strips. We established 21 Native Flower Strips (NFS) in avocado orchards in Central Chile. NFS contained 7–11 plant species, with variable corolla length and flowering period, to promote beneficial insects. We assessed flight activity of ladybirds (Coccinellidae) and bees (Apiformes) in sites adjacent to and far from NFS within avocado orchards. Additionally, we evaluated flower visitation for the main flower visitor groups (Apiformes, Lepidoptera, Diptera, and Coleoptera) to the plant species in NFS according to season and corolla length. We found almost six times greater flight activity of coccinellids and bees in NFS than sites far from NFS within avocado orchards. Visitation rates of pollinator groups varied according to corolla length and season. Diptera, Coleoptera, and Lepidoptera consistently visited short corolla flowers. NFS were highly visited in summer and autumn, when avocados were not in bloom. NFS in orchards should be encouraged by policymakers because they support beneficial insects that could deliver ecosystem services and contribute to local biological conservation.
The emulsifying effect of biosurfactants produced by food spoilage organisms in Nigeria

Food spoilage organisms were isolated using standard procedures on Nutrient Agar, Cetrimide Agar and Pseudomonas Agar Base (supplemented with CFC). The samples were categorized as animal products (raw fish, egg, raw chicken, corned beef, pasteurized milk) and plant products (vegetable salad, water leaf ( Talinium triangulare ), boiled rice, tomatoes and pumpkin leaf ( Teifairia occidentalis ). They were characterised as Pseudomonas putida, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas stutzeri, Burkholderia pseudomallei, Serratia rubidaea, Corynebacterium pilosum, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus mycoides , Bacillus laterosporus, Bacillus laterosporus , Serratia marcescens, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus macerans, Alcaligenes faecalis and Alcaligenes eutrophus. Preliminary screening for biosurfactant production was done using red blood haemolysis test and confirmed by slide test, drop collapse and oil spreading assay. The biosurfactant produced was purified using acetone and the composition determined initially using Molisch’s test, thin layer chromatography and gas chromatography mass spectrometry. The components were found to be ethanol, amino acids, butoxyacetic acid, hexadecanoic acid, oleic acid, lauryl peroxide, octadecanoic acid and phthalic acid. The producing organisms grew readily on several hydrocarbons such as crude oil, diesel oil and aviation fuel when used as sole carbon sources. The purified biosurfactants produced were able to cause emulsification of kerosene (19.71-27.14%) as well as vegetable oil (16.91-28.12%) based on the emulsification index. This result suggests that the isolates can be an asset and further work can exploit their optimal potential in industries.
Examining Bridges in Mathematics and Differential Effects Among English Language Learners

Abstract Determining the effectiveness of core mathematics curricula is foundational to evidence-based practice. Examining effectiveness heterogeneity is also crucial to better understanding mathematics achievement among English language learners (ELLs). In this study, we used a quasi-experimental design (difference-in-differences) to examine the impact of a standards-based elementary mathematics curriculum (Bridges in Mathematics) on fifth graders’ annual gains in mathematics achievement in a large midwestern school district compared to the district’s prior curriculum (Investigations). We also investigated whether the effect of Bridges varied across English language proficiency (ELP) levels of ELLs. Students in schools that implemented Bridges (n = 1,839) showed significantly greater mathematics gains compared to those receiving the prior curriculum (n = 3,354; g = 0.25 in change score standard deviations). This effect did not vary significantly across ELP levels. Limitations of this study as well as implications for research and practice with core curricula are discussed. Impact Statement We used a quasi-experimental design to investigate the effect of the Bridges in Mathematics curriculum on student mathematics achievement gains in fifth grade in a large, urban school district. Students who received the curriculum grew measurably more on mathematics scores from the fall to spring of fifth grade than students who received the previous curriculum. English language learners with heterogenous English language proficiency levels and English-proficient peers benefited similarly from the curriculum.
Microwave-assisted synthesis of void-induced graphene-wrapped nickel oxide hybrids for supercapacitor applications

Here we demonstrate a simple strategy for the large-scale synthesis of void-induced and graphene-wrapped nickel oxide (VGWN) hybrids using domestic microwave irradiation. When a homogeneously mixed aqueous suspension of partially microwave exfoliated graphene oxide (MEGO) sheets and nickel nitrate nanoparticles is irradiates with a microwave, the in situ formation of voids with wrapping of NiO nanoparticles with graphene sheets is easily realized. The novel VGWN hybrid materials were used for investigation of electrochemical capacitive behaviours. Remarkably, such hybrid structure provides the right combination of electrode properties for high-performance supercapacitors and cyclic stability. The wrapping of graphene sheets on the NiO nanoparticles can offer highly conductive pathways by bridging individual NiO nanoparticles together, thus facilitating the charge/discharge rate and cycling performance of supercapacitors. The hybrid materials displayed enhanced capacitive performance (549 F g−1 at 10 mV s−1). Additionally, over 88% of the initial capacitance was retained after repeating the cyclic voltammetry test for 2500 cycles. The enhanced electrochemical performance can be ascribed to the synergic effects of the two components' voids and wrapping, suggesting VGWN hybrids as novel electrode materials promising potential applications as high-performance energy storage devices.
Development of an Efficient Preparation and Verifying System for Rice Gametophytic Male Sterility using RNAi on Candidate Gene and OsMYB86R as a Reporter

Background: Gametophytic male sterility plays an important role in the study of pollen development mechanism and the breeding of three-generation hybrid rice. Because of the inherent phenotypic and genetic characteristics of gametophytic male sterility, it is very hard to find and identify gametophytic male sterility, which makes the related research lay behind the sporophytic male sterility. On the other hand, with the abundance of gene transcription data, a large number of pollen-specific genes have been found, and most of them are possibly associated with gametophytic male sterility. In order to promote the research of these genes in pollen development and heterosis utilization, it is necessary to construct an efficient, economical and accurate method to test these genes and identify if they are gametophytic male sterility related genes.Results: In this study, at first, the OsC1/OsMYB86 gene involved in anthocyanin synthesis in rice was modified and identified, and the function of revised OsMYB86R gene was created as the same as OsMYB86, and OsMYB86R is more convenient to be used as a reporter gene because the restriction site is removed. Then, an ascorbic acid oxidase gene OsPTD1 was downregulated using RNAi driven by its own promoter, which resulted in abnormal pollen tube growth; Lastly, the RNAi elements were linked with OsMYB86R and together-transferred into an osmyb86 mutant, and the purple color segregation of T1 and F1 derived from positive plants were distorted, which showed that the OsPTD1 related gametogenic male sterility was successfully prepared and determined.Conclusion: In this study, an easy and efficient method to prepare and identify gametophyte male sterility was established by using the strategy of RNAi and OsMYB86R as reporter. Comparing with the current methods, the advantages of this method are: (1) in material preparation, save time, a generation less comparing with conventional method, also a lot of mutation screening maybe avoided; (2) in identification, less cost, no PCR, electrophoresis, and other processes needed, and no expensive chemicals and instruments required; (3) in the results, more accurate, much less background affection, no damage on the plant. As a result, it is an easy, efficient, low-cost, accurate method to prepare and identify gametophytic male sterility genes. It is very important in elucidating the mechanism of pollen development and promoting the utilization of heterosis.
A Two-phase mixture model of Atmospheric Aerosols in the channel with an applied electric and magnetic field

Objectives: A mathematical model is constructed to investigate the concentration of aerosol mixture in the atmosphere. Aerosol is the significant constituent of the atmosphere, as it is playing a key role in environmental effects including air quality degradation, smoke-fog related accidents, acid rain formation, and visibility issues. The objective of this paper is to formulate the effects of aerosol mixture, and it is monitored through its concentration in the presence and absence of chemical reaction. The effects of concentration of aerosol mixture has to be reduced so as to enhance visibility. Methodology: A two-dimensional schematic geometry is considered which comprises the channel extended to infinity in the x-axis bounded by porous layers, also electric and magnetic field are applied transversely. A general exact solution of the dimensionless governing partial differential equations are obtained using perturbation technique with appropriate boundary conditions. Findings: Detailed results of velocity and concentration of the aerosol mixture were presented graphically. The graphical representation validated the accuracy of attained results with an encouraging level of agreement. As a measure to enhance the effects of air visibility, significant conclusions are specified using the obtained results. Keywords: atmospheric fluid; coagulation; concentration; porous layers; mixture theory
Assessing alcohol-related beliefs using pictographic representations: a systematic approach to the development and validation of the revised alcohol expectancy task

Abstract Aim To systematically develop and test stimuli for inclusion within the revised Alcohol Expectancy Task (rAET)-a pictographic assessment of alcohol-related beliefs.Using a UK adult sample of regular social drinkers, this paper documents the (1) selection (2)development and (3)testing of stimuli, along with (4)initial validation of the rAET. Method A hierarchy of common alcoholic beverages was established, along with a consensus regarding beverage presentation format.A professional artist iteratively developed pictographs of characters exhibiting different emotions in everyday scenarios and specialised photography of beverages was undertaken. Accurate identification/recognition of these stimuli was then established using a response box, whereby participants indicated which word (from eight) matched the onscreen images presented.Finally, developed stimuli were included within the rAET. Results Informing stimuli development and selection, wine, beer and vodka were the most common alcoholic beverages that participants reported consuming, with a preference for photographic representations.Inverse efficiency scores (based on accuracy and reaction time) suggested some variability in the recognition of certain beverage types and emotional stimuli, highlighting which stimuli may be best for inclusion in the rAET. Confirmatory factorial analyses of rAET responses suggests it has good construct validity. Conclusion Maximising the transparency of stimuli selection, development and assessment provides a solid basis for systematic and valid scenario-based assessments of alcohol-related beliefs.
Biomarker and Carbon Isotopic Evidence of Marine Incursions in the Himalayan Foreland Basin During Its Overfilled Stage

The final stages of evolution of the Himalayan foreland basin (HFB) are preserved in the Siwalik Group of rocks deposited by meandering and/or braided rivers in the western and central regions of HFB. However, the time‐equivalent deposits in the eastern part of the foreland provide contradictory evidence of both terrestrial and marine environments. To address the ambiguity, molecular level characterization and stable isotopic composition of organic matter (OM) have been employed in the late Miocene‐Pliocene sequence of the eastern HFB. The n‐alkane distribution, carbon isotopic (δ13C) signature of n‐alkanes and distribution of hopane and sterane isomers suggest OM contributions from both marine and terrestrial sources during the late Miocene period. Increase in short‐chain n‐alkane abundance and gammacerane index, low pristane/phytane ratio, higher δ13C values, higher regular sterane/17α‐hopane, C31R/C30‐hopane and C27/C29 steranes ratios and presence of C30 sterane provides substantial evidence of stratified anoxic conditions and marine influences at specific stratigraphic intervals. During the late Miocene period, mixing of marine OM sources with terrestrial sources argue for marginal marine depositional conditions amid fluvial‐dominating environments. The entry of marine waters in the eastern HFB through the pre‐existing cratonic troughs possibly resulted from eustatic or relative sea‐level rise. No further evidence of marine incursions is observed in the younger Pliocene sediments. The higher detrital influx from the rising Himalayas, the onset of Northern Hemisphere Glaciation and evolution of physical barriers such as Shillong Massifs and Barind Tracts altogether led to the cessation of marine incursions into the HFB.
Investigation on the adsorption behaviour of heating-treated starch on hematite

ABSTRACT An investigation on these adsorption characteristics of heating-treated starch on fine hematite was conducted through a series of tests, like adsorption tests, zeta potential tests, micro-flotation tests and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analysis as well. All results pointed out that different temperature of starch heating treatment tends to achieve different degree of starch gelatinization, probably contributing to its different flocculating capacities on mineral surfaces. Since such differences on the degree of starch gelatinization after heating-treatment seem to induce distinct amounts of adsorption densities and flocculated recoveries on hematite. And the higher the water temperature is, the better the starch gel would be.