Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Classification of Basal Stem Rot Disease in Oil Palm Plantations Using Terrestrial Laser Scanning Data and Machine Learning

The oil palm industry is vital for the Malaysian economy. However, it is threatened by the Ganoderma boninense fungus, which causes basal stem rot (BSR) disease. Foliar symptoms of the disease include the appearance of several unopened spears, flat crowns, and small crown size. The effect of this disease depends on the severity of the infection. Currently, the disease can be detected manually by analyzing the oil palm tree’s physical structure. Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) is an active ranging method that uses laser light, which can directly represent the tree’s external structure. This study aimed to classify the healthiness levels of the BSR disease using a machine learning (ML) approach. A total of 80 oil palm trees with four different healthiness levels were pre-determined by the experts during data collection with 40 each for training and testing. The four healthiness levels are T0 (healthy), T1 (mildly infected), T2 (moderately infected), and T3 (severely infected), with 10 trees in each level. A terrestrial scanner was mounted at a height of 1 m, and each oil palm was scanned at four positions at a distance of 1.5 m around the tree. Five tree features were extracted from the TLS data: C200 (crown slice at 200 cm from the top), C850 (crown slice at 850 cm from the top), crown area (number of pixels inside the crown), frond angle, and frond number. C200 and C850 were obtained using the crown stratification method, while the other three features were obtained from the top-down image. The obtained features were then analyzed by principal component analysis (PCA) to reduce the dimensionality of the dataset and increase its interpretability while at the same time minimizing information loss. The results showed that the kernel naive Bayes (KNB) model developed using the input parameters of the principal components (PCs) 1 and 2 had the best performance among 90 other models with a multiple level accuracy of 85% and a Kappa coefficient of 0.80. Furthermore, the combination of the two highest PC variance with the most weighted to frond number, frond angle, crown area, and C200 significantly contributed to the classification success. The model also could classify healthy and mildly infected trees with 100% accuracy. Therefore, it can be concluded that the ML approach using TLS data can be used to predict early BSR infection with high accuracy.
Phase-field model of topological charge interaction force in nematic liquid crystals

ABSTRACT Nematic liquid crystals (LCs) normally contain both integer and half-integer topological charges. In this work, we investigate topological charge evolution dynamics in nematic LCs by the phase-field model. We observe the annihilation of the topological charge, and the total number of charges decreases to two cores with time evolution in a disk. A significant decrease in charges is observed during the initial evolution. The positive topological charge and negative topological charge annihilate depending on the distance between two charges, which can be treated as the interaction force. The form of interaction force is similar to Coulomb’s law, but the force is inversely the distance of defects instead of the square of the distance in Coulomb’s law. Therefore, the present study contributes to the understanding of topological charge evolution dynamics and provides guidance for experiments to design in nematic LCs.
Acute Urinary Retention from Knotted Urethral Catheter Treated with Holmium Laser Ablation.

Background: Straight catheters are usually used for clean intermittent catheterization (CIC). Patients perform CIC without much difficulty. Spontaneous knotting of catheter is rare in large bore straight catheters and female patients. Case Presentation: A 50-year old lady, case of neurogenic bladder on CIC inserted a 14F straight catheter, drained some urine but was unable to remove the catheter. She presented in emergency with retention of urine. Her X-ray and ultrasound examination revealed a knotted catheter. Conservative measures to remove the catheter such as forceful injection of radio-opaque contrast and passage of hydrophilic guidewire did not work. She was taken in the operating room. The knot was ablated using holmium laser through transurethral passage of an 8F ureteroscope. Conclusions: Spontaneous knotting of urethral catheter is rare in adults. It should be suspected whenever a straight catheter cannot be removed. Inserting excessive length of catheter is an important risk factor. Holmium laser is an excellent tool to cut the catheter in a least invasive way when conservative measures have failed.
Self-Regulated Learning Development in Undergraduate ESL Writing Classrooms: Teacher Feedback Versus Self-Assessment

In the English as a second language (ESL) research context, teachers are committed to ensuring that students are aware of their writing skills and the kinds of errors they make in their writing. This explains why teacher feedback is frequently practised in the writing classrooms. Self-assessment is another supplementary strategy that provides opportunity for ESL students to take control of their learning. This study investigated the effects of self-assessment and indirect teacher feedback on self-regulated learning (SRL). A quasi-experimental design with an embedded experimental model was used in this research. Three intact classes were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. This study utilised both quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative data were obtained through the Self-Regulation Strategy Inventory Self-Report. The qualitative data were derived from the SRL microanalytic protocol. The findings revealed that both self-assessment and indirect teacher feedback helped learners become more self-regulated. However, self-assessment reduced maladaptive behaviours more than indirect teacher feedback. This study concludes that self-assessment is an effective instructional practice that promotes SRL in terms of goal setting, strategy planning, strategy use, attribution and adaptive behaviour. It is recommended that self-assessment be part of an instructional practice rather than an alternative strategy in the writing class.
The complete chloroplast genome of the white-berry yew Pseudotaxus chienii (Cupressales: Taxaceae), a rare and endangered relict plant endemic to southern China

Abstract The white-berry yew (Pseudotaxus chienii) is a rare relict conifer endemic to southern China. Here, we assembled its chloroplast genome using Illumina sequencing technology. The circular genome is 126,925 bp long with an asymmetric base composition. It encodes a total of 115 genes, including 82 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 30 tRNAs and three rRNAs. Gene duplication was detected for a couple of tRNA genes. Nine genes have a single intron, and another gene possesses a couple of introns. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that P. chienii is closely related to three taxa of the genus Taxus (T. baccata, T. mairei, and T. wallichiana).
Ethical Aspects of BCI Technology: What Is the State of the Art?

Brain–Computer Interface (BCI) technology is a promising research area in many domains. Brain activity can be interpreted through both invasive and non-invasive monitoring devices, allowing for novel, therapeutic solutions for individuals with disabilities and for other non-medical applications. However, a number of ethical issues have been identified from the use of BCI technology. In this paper, we review the academic discussion of the ethical implications of BCI technology in the last five years. We conclude that some emerging applications of BCI technology—including commercial ventures that seek to meld human intelligence with AI—present new and unique ethical concerns. Further, we seek to understand how academic literature on the topic of BCIs addresses these novel concerns. Similar to prior work, we use a limited sample to identify trends and areas of concern or debate among researchers and ethicists. From our analysis, we identify two key areas of BCI ethics that warrant further research: the physical and psychological effects of BCI technology. Additionally, questions of BCI policy have not yet become a frequent point of discussion in the relevant literature on BCI ethics, and we argue this should be addressed in future work. We provide guiding questions that will help ethicists and policy makers grapple with the most important issues associated with BCI technology.
3D conditional generative adversarial network‐based synthetic medical image augmentation for lung nodule detection

A computer‐aided detection (CADe) scheme, relying on a large number of high‐quality images with annotations, could help radiologists effectively detect lung nodules. However, such medical data are generally difficult to obtain. To address this issue, this paper proposes a novel method based on a conditional generative adversarial network (CGAN) to generate new samples for data augmentation (DA). This method employs a 3D CGAN based on a squeeze‐and‐excitation mechanism and residual learning to synthesize realistic and diverse lung nodules in chest computed tomography (CT) images to improve the performance of the CADe system. To evaluate the proposed method, this paper uses synthetic samples for DA to train the lung nodule detection network. The results indicate that these synthetic samples, which cover a part of the data distribution unfilled by the original data, can boost the overall performance of the nodule detection network at fixed false positive (FP) rates.
Theoretical Characterization of a-Helix and -Hairpin Folding Kinetics

By means of the conformational free energy surface and corresponding diffusion coefficients, as obtained by long time scale atomistic molecular dynamics simulations (μs time scale), we model the folding kinetics of R-helix and â-hairpin peptides as a diffusive process over the free energy surface. The two model systems studied in this paper (the R-helical temporin L and the â-hairpin prion protein H1 peptide) exhibit a funnel-like almost barrierless free energy profile, leading to nonexponential folding kinetics matching rather well the available experimental data. Moreover, using the free energy profile provided by Muñoz et al. [Muñoz et al. Nature 1997, 390: 196-199], this model was also applied to reproduce the two-state folding kinetics of the C-terminal â-hairpin of protein GB1, yielding an exponential folding kinetics with a time constant (∼5 μs) in excellent agreement with the experimentally observed one (∼6 μs). Finally, the folding kinetics obtained by solving the diffusion equation, considering either a one-dimensional or a twodimensional free energy surface, are also compared in order to understand the relevance of the possible kinetic coupling between conformational degrees of freedom in the folding process.
Racial/ethnic differences in holding a retirement saving motive: A decomposition analysis

In the U.S., saving for retirement has become more important because employers have shifted from utilizing defined benefit plans to defined contribution plans. While greater responsibility has fallen to individuals to support themselves after retirement, evidence shows that Americans are not prepared adequately (Board of Governors, 2016). Retirement saving behavior is intentional and experts suggest that it should be accomplished by long-term planning such as establishing a goal and implementing a plan. Goals play central roles in purposive behavior, through the process of formation, planning action, controlling the action, and finally in attaining or failing to reach the goal (Bagozzi & Dholakia, 1999). While employer-sponsored programs help attaining adequate retirement saving, saving for retirement at an individual level largely can benefit from goal setting and striving for goals.
Application of precise neutron focusing mirrors for neutron reflectometry: latest results and future prospects

A large-area focusing supermirror manufactured with ultra-precision machining has been employed at the SOFIA reflectometer at the J-PARC Materials and Life Science Experimental Facility, and a gain of approximately 100% in the neutron flux was achieved. For future upgrade, optics using the focusing mirror for multi-incident-angle neutron reflectometry are proposed, in order to reveal evolutions of interfacial structures for operando measurements with a wide reciprocal space.
Direct and indirect dimensional compensation: Is there a difference between observers and group members?

Dimensional compensation takes place when perceivers judge one of two social targets higher on one of the two fundamental dimensions while judging the other target higher on the second dimension. Interestingly, the majority of studies on the dimensional compensation effect focused on direct measures, with almost no attempt to rely on more indirect measures. We tested whether dimensional compensation also takes place at a more indirect level (Brief-IAT). In Experiment 1, observers presented with unknown groups dimensionally compensated both directly and indirectly. Experiment 2 had participants assigned to one of two novel groups. Whereas low-competence group members dimensionally compensated on both direct and indirect measures, high-competence group members dimensionally compensated at the direct level but did not conceed any advantage to the low-competence group at the indirect level. As a set, our findings shed new light on direct and indirect dimensionally compensatory judgments as a function of perceivers’ vantage points as observers and group members.
A simple multi-feature classification to recognize human emotions in Images

Emotion recognition by the human brain, normally incorporates context, body language, facial expressions, verbal cues, non-verbal cues, gestures and tone of voice. When considering only the face, piecing together various aspects of each facial feature is critical in identifying the emotion. Since viewing a single facial feature in isolation may result in inaccuracies, this paper attempts training neural networks to first identify specificfacial features in isolation, and then use the general pattern of expressions on the face to identify the overall emotion. The reason for classification inaccuracies are also examined.
Physical properties and high-temperature oxidation resistance of sputtered Si3N4∕MoNx nanocomposite coatings

This article reports on structure, phase composition and high-T oxidation resistance of sputtered Mo–Si–N films. These films were dc reactively sputtered using an unbalanced magnetron equipped with a MoSi2 alloyed target in a mixture Ar and N2. A continuous increase of partial pressure of nitrogen pN2 from 0to0.6Pa makes it possible to produce two groups of composites: (1) MoSix+a-Si3N4 and (2) a-Si3N4+MoNx. The composites of the first group are crystalline and contain a low amount of the a-Si3N4 phase. On the contrary, the composites of the second group are amorphous and the a-Si3N4 phase dominates in these films. Sputtered films were characterized using XRD, EPMA, microhardness measurements, thermogravimetric measurements and SEM. It was found that the thermal annealing of Mo–Si–N films in flowing air at temperatures Ta⩾900°C results in a loss of the film mass (Δm 1→Mo+N(g) and the formation of volatile MoOx oxides, which diffuse out of film. T.
GB-SAR in the Diagnosis of Critical City Infrastructure - A Case Study of a Load Test on the Long Tram Extradosed Bridge

This article describes a case of using remote sensing during a static load test of a large bridge, which, because of its location, belongs to a critical city infrastructure. The bridge in question is the longest tram flyover in Poland. This is an extradosed-type concrete structure. It conducts a long tram line over 21 other active lines of an important railway station in the center of Cracow. The diagnostic of such bridges involving the load test method is difficult. Traditional, contact measurements of span displacements are not enough anymore. In such cases, remote sensing becomes an indispensable solution. This publication presents an example of using the close-range radar remote sensing technique of ground-based radar interferometry. However, the cross-sections of the huge bridge were observed using several methods. The aim was to confirm the conditions and efficiency of radar displacement measurements. They were therefore traditional contact measurements using mechanic sensors conducted, if possible, to the bottom of the span, for precise leveling and measurement using electronic total station. Comparing the results as well as the discussion held demonstrated the fundamental advantages of remote sensing methods over the other more traditional techniques.
Fluorescence-based quantitative platform for ultrasensitive food allergen detection: From immunoassays to DNA sensors.

Food allergies are global health issue with an increasing prevalence that affect food safety; hence, food allergen detection, labeling, and management are considered to be important priorities in the food industry. In this critical review, we provide a comprehensive overview of several fluorescence-based platforms based on different biorecognition ligands, such as antibodies, DNA, aptamers, and cells, for food allergen quantification. Traditional analytical methods are generally unsuitable for food manufacturers to accomplish the real-time identification of food allergens in food products. Therefore, it is important to develop simple, rapid, inexpensive, accurate, and sensitive methods to improve user accessibility. A fluorescence-based quantitative platform provides an excellent detection platform for food allergens because of its high sensitivity. This review summarizes the traditional antibody-based fluorescent techniques for food allergen detection, such as the time-resolved fluoroimmunoassay , immunofluorescence imaging, fluorescence enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay, flow injection fluoroimmunoassay, and fluorescence immunosensors. However, these methods suffer from disadvantages such as the significant rate of false-positive and false-negative results due to antibody cross-reactivity with nontarget food components in the complex food matrix and epitope degradation during food processing. Hence, different types of fluorescence-based immunoassays are suitable for standardization and quantification of allergens in fresh foods. In addition, we summarize new fluorescence-based quantitative platforms, including fluorescence genosensors, fluorescence cell sensors, and fluorescence aptamer sensors. With the advantages of high sensitivity and simple operation, fluorescence biosensors will have great potential in the future and could provide portable methods for multiallergen real-time detection in complex food systems.
A tactical demand-supply planning framework to manage complexity in engineer-to-order environments: insights from an in-depth case study

Abstract The challenging demand-supply balancing in engineer-to-order (ETO) environments is often attributed to complexity. This study expands the understanding of managing complexity to obtain demand-supply balancing, focussing on the tactical planning logic of the order fulfilment process. An in-depth single case study was conducted and data describing the order fulfilment process at a construction company were collected and analysed. Findings suggest a tactical-level planning process framework, incorporating nine key decisions and three crucial activities, and their potential complexity-reducing and complexity-absorbing impact. The study contributes to the theoretical discussion of complexity in management practices, linking demand-supply balancing as a performance measure. The findings guide practitioners in ETO settings on anticipating potential medium-term consequences of key decisions on capacity. This emphasises the need of proper IT support to apply knowledge generated from previous projects and conduct comprehensive and robust scenario-based analyses.
Transcriptome analysis reveals that fertilization with cryopreserved sperm downregulates genes relevant for early embryo development in the horse

Artificial insemination with cryopreserved sperm is a major assisted reproductive technology in many species. In horses, as in humans, insemination with cryopreserved sperm is associated with lower pregnancy rates than those for fresh sperm, however, direct effects of sperm cryopreservation on the development of resulting embryos are largely unexplored. The aim of this study was to investigate differences in gene expression between embryos resulting from fertilization with fresh or cryopreserved sperm. Embryos were obtained at 8, 10 or 12 days after ovulation from mares inseminated post-ovulation on successive cycles with either fresh sperm or frozen-thawed sperm from the same stallion, providing matched embryo pairs at each day. RNA was isolated from two matched pairs (4 embryos) for each day, and cDNA libraries were built and sequenced. Significant differences in transcripts per kilobase million (TPM) were determined using (i) genes for which the expression difference between treatments was higher than 99% of that in the random case (P < 0.01), and (ii) genes for which the fold change was ≥ 2, to avoid expression bias in selection of the candidate genes. Molecular pathways were explored using the DAVID webserver, followed by network analyses using STRING, with a threshold of 0.700 for positive interactions. The transcriptional profile of embryos obtained with frozen-thawed sperm differed significantly from that for embryos derived from fresh sperm on all days, showing significant down-regulation of genes involved in biological pathways related to oxidative phosphorylation, DNA binding, DNA replication, and immune response. Many genes with reduced expression were orthologs of genes known to be embryonic lethal in mice. This study, for the first time, provides evidence of altered transcription in embryos resulting from fertilization with cryopreserved spermatozoa in any species. As sperm cryopreservation is commonly used in many species, including human, the effect of this intervention on expression of developmentally important genes in resulting embryos warrants attention.
SAR imaging of multiple maritime moving targets based on sparsity Bayesian learning

Imaging of multiple maritime moving targets is a challenging task in the synthetic aperture radar (SAR) system owing to the fact that the complex target motion produces evident image defocusing. Given that the sparsity of ship targets in the SAR image, the authors propose a new imaging method of multiple maritime moving targets based on sparsity Bayesian learning. To avoid the overcomplete velocity dictionary with heavy computational burden, the Gaussian chirplet transform is exploited and improved based on the velocity constraint to estimate target Doppler parameters for the observation matrix construction. An observation model is established for imaging multiple ship targets. In the proposed method, the multiple ship target imaging task is formulated into the sparsity Bayesian framework, which provides a posterior density function for the target image and improves the imaging quality over the conventional methods based on the point estimate. The Bayesian compressive sensing (BCS) using a hierarchical form of the Laplace prior is applied to reconstruct the moving target image. Since BCS provides an estimation of the uncertainty in the reconstruction, the sea clutter can be well suppressed while the multiple targets are refocused. Simulations and experimental Gaofen-3 data are performed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.