Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Probabilistic simulations of crop yield over western India using the DEMETER seasonal hindcast ensembles

Process-based integrated modelling of weather and crop yield over large areas is becoming an important research topic. The production of the DEMETER ensemble hindcasts of weather allows this work to be carried out in a probabilistic framework. In this study, ensembles of crop yield (groundnut, Arachis hypogaea L.) were produced for 10 2.5° × 2.5° grid cells in western India using the DEMETER ensembles and the general large-area model (GLAM) for annual crops. Four key issues are addressed by this study. First, crop model calibration methods for use with weather ensemble data are assessed. Calibration using yield ensembles was more successful than calibration using reanalysis data (the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts 40-yr reanalysis, ERA40). Secondly, the potential for probabilistic forecasting of crop failure is examined. The hindcasts show skill in the prediction of crop failure, with more severe failures being more predictable. Thirdly, the use of yield ensemble means to predict interannual variability in crop yield is examined and their skill assessed relative to baseline simulations using ERA40. The accuracy of multimodel yield ensemble means is equal to or greater than the accuracy using ERA40. Fourthly, the impact of two key uncertainties, sowing window and spatial scale, is briefly examined. The impact of uncertainty in the sowing window is greater with ERA40 than with the multi-model yield ensemble mean. Subgrid heterogeneity affects model accuracy: where correlations are low on the grid scale, they may be significantly positive on the subgrid scale. The implications of the results of this study for yield forecasting on seasonal time-scales are as follows. (i) There is the potential for probabilistic forecasting of crop failure (defined by a threshold yield value); forecasting of yield terciles shows less potential. (ii) Any improvement in the skill of climate models has the potential to translate into improved deterministic yield prediction. (iii) Whilst model input uncertainties are important, uncertainty in the sowing window may not require specific modelling. The implications of the results of this study for yield forecasting on multidecadal (climate change) time-scales are as follows. (i) The skill in the ensemble mean suggests that the perturbation, within uncertainty bounds, of crop and climate parameters, could potentially average out some of the errors associated with mean yield prediction. (ii) For a given technology trend, decadal fluctuations in the yield-gap parameter used by GLAM may be relatively small, implying some predictability on those time-scales.
Helmholtz Resonator Impedance Model, Part 1: Nonlinear Behavior

A one-dimensional preliminary design impedance prediction model is derived for Helmholtz resonators constructed with circular orie ces. The model addresses only the effects of resonator geometry and incident sound-pressure amplitude. The effects of grazing e ow are not included. An experimental program was conducted to calibrate unknown empirical parameters derived in the model. The model was shown to predict, reasonably accurately, impedance data published in the open literature for resonators constructed with single and multiple orie ces over a wide range of sound-pressure amplitudes and frequencies. The model provides a rapid means of calculating resonator impedance as a function of resonator geometry, incident sound-pressure amplitude, and frequency.
Evolution of magnetization reversal on patterned magnetic elements

An in situ observation of magnetic domain structure evolution in the presence of an external magnetic field induced from a live current strip produced underneath patterned permalloy thin films is presented. The signal due to the electrostatic force was avoided during the magnetic force microscope imaging by adding an electrically grounded metal film in-between the patterned films and the current strip. Magnetization reversal on a 6 /spl mu/m permalloy disk was imaged, whereas magnetic domain structure on higher aspect ratios of ellipse and rectangle permalloy elements showed great changes hut a much higher field was required for magnetization saturation due to their high coercive and saturation fields.
Numerical Evidences of Polarization Switching in PMN Type Relaxor Ferroelectrics

We present a conceptual and computational framework for chemically ordered Pb(Mg 1/3 Nb 2/3 O 3) (PMN) type supercells violating disorder of the host lattice. The effective Hamiltonian is specified by invariance under permutations of supercells and by the dipole-dipole interaction supporting both local nonzero and zero mean polarization of the structure. Statistics treated in canonical ensemble within the mean field approach reveals emergence of polar nanoregions as supported by interplay between the (random) initial state polarization of supercells and their interactions increased at cooling.
Improvement of mechanical and thermal properties of polylactic acid electrospun films by incorporating L-Lactide functionalized cellulose nanocrystals

Abstract Despite being a promising biodegradable material, polylactic acid (PLA) still has several limitations mainly concerning its poor thermal resistance and brittleness. In addition, the high temperature during processing can lead to the deformation of PLA and thus reduce its performance of PLA. To overcome the above problems, L-Lactide functionalized cellulose nanocrystals enhanced PLA (PLA/CNC-g-PLA) were successfully prepared by electrospinning technology and the morphology, hydrophilic, thermal, and mechanical properties of the nanocomposite membranes with different ratios of CNC-g-PLA (1–10%) were characterized. The results demonstrated that the introduction of L-Lactide improved the interfacial compatibility between PLA and CNC. In addition, the mechanical properties and thermal stability of the composite fiber membranes were enhanced by improving the molecular chain orientation through electrospinning. The tensile strength and elongation at break of the composite fiber film increased by 2.4 and 8.2 times, and T0 and Tmax increased by 17 and 38 °C, respectively, when the addition of CNC-g-PLA was 5%. This promising nanocomposite with good properties is expected to be used in tissue engineering and food packaging applications.
Altitude and latitude variations in avionics SEU and atmospheric neutron flux

The direct cause of single event upsets (SEUs) in static random-access memories (SRAMs) at aircraft altitudes by atmospheric neutrons has been documented previously. The variation of the in-flight SEU rate with latitude is demonstrated by new data over a wide range of geographical locations. Measurements and models of the atmospheric neutron flux are also evaluated to characterize its variation with altitude, latitude, and solar activity. The data confirm the validity of the initial conclusions of A. Taber and E. Normand (1993) regarding the cause/effect relationship between the atmospheric neutron flux and the measured SEU rate. The Wilson-Nealy atmospheric neutron model allows solar activity variations to be accounted for and is also more accurate in representing the nonseparable relationship between altitude and latitude variations. >
K 413, a star near the AGB in the globular cluster M 12

CCD spectra obtained with the echelle spectrometer of the 6-meter telescope were used to determine, by the model atmospheres method, the fundamental parameters (Te = 4800 K, logg =0 :7) and detailed chemical abundances for the star K 413, a member of the globular cluster M 12. The resulting value, (Fe=H) = 1:38, is the rst metallicity determination for M 12 using high-resolution spectra. The main characteristic feature of the star's atmospheric chemical abundance pattern is a large oxygen excess, (O=Fe) +2. The s-process elements are probably slightly depleted compared to metallicity: (X=Fe) = 0:04 for yttrium and zirconium, (Ba=Fe) = 0:12 for barium. Abundances of the heavier elements: La, Ce, Nd, and Pr, do not dier, relative to iron, from the solar ones: (heavy=Fe) = 0:0. The europium excess, (Eu=Fe) = +0:48, is typical of members of low-metallicity globular clusters. The spectrum of K 413 shows, for the H line, an variable absorption and emission prole. From its high luminosity and chemical abundance anomalies, we can suppose that K 413 is in an evolutionary stage after the AGB. In the spectrum, we nd absorption details that can be identied with diuse interstellar bands displaced by 16 km s 1 to longer wavelengths relative to the star's velocity.
On the calculation of the dielectric properties of suspensions

Abstract The dielectric properties of suspensions are usually calculated from the quasi-static solution of the Laplace equation for the potential around a single particle in the continuous phase. The results are only straightforward for the static conductivity and for the high frequency permittivity, since these expressions only involve the potentials which are in phase with the applied field. The static permittivity and the high frequency conductivity, are much more difficult to evaluate, since they strongly depend on the limiting behaviour of the out of phase terms, which actually vanish in these two limits. Using arguments based on the stored energy and on the dissipated power, it is shown how the expressions for the static permittivity and the high frequency conductivity, can be calculated using only the in phase terms of the potential. The results are much easier to derive than using the classical procedure, and they contribute to a better understanding of the meaning of the relaxation amplitudes. A .
Morphogenesis of Antarctic Paleosols: Martian Analogue

Abstract Samples of horizons in paleosols from the Quartermain Mountains of the Antarctic Dry Valleys (Aztec and New Mountain areas) were analyzed for their physical characteristics, mineralogy, chemical composition, and microbiology to determine the accumulation and movement of salts and other soluble constituents and the presence/absence of microbial populations. Salt concentrations are of special interest because they are considered to be a function of age, derived over time, in part from nearby oceanic and high-altitude atmospheric sources. The chemical composition of ancient Miocene-age paleosols in these areas is the direct result of the deposition and weathering of airborne-influxed salts and other materials, as well as the weathering of till derived principally from local dolerite and sandstone outcrops. Paleosols nearer the coast have greater contents of Cl, whereas near the inland ice sheet, nitrogen tends to increase on a relative basis. The accumulation and vertical distribution of salts and other soluble chemical elements indicate relative amounts of movement in the profile over long periods of time, in the order of several million years. Four of the six selected subsamples from paleosol horizons in two ancient soil profiles contained nil concentrations of bacteria and fungi. However, two horizons at depths of between 3 and 8 cm, in two profiles, yielded several colonies of the fungi Beauveria bassiana and Penicillium brevicompactum , indicating very minor input of organic carbon. Beauveria bassiana is often reported in association with insects and is used commercially for the biological control of some insect pests. Penicillium species are commonly isolated from Arctic, temperate, and tropical soils and are known to utilize a wide variety of organic carbon and nitrogen compounds. The cold, dry soils of the Antarctic bear a close resemblance to various present and past martian environments where similar weathering could occur and possible microbial populations may exist.
Micro/nanofabrication of poly(L-lactic acid) using focused ion beam direct etching

Micro/nanofabrication of biocompatible and biodegradable poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) using focused Ga ion beam direct etching was evaluated for future bio-device applications. The fabrication performance was determined with different ion fluences and fluxes (beam currents), and it was found that the etching speed and fabrication accuracy were affected by irradiation-induced heat. Focused ion beam (FIB)-irradiated surfaces were analyzed using micro-area X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Owing to reactions such as the physical sputtering of atoms and radiation-induced decomposition, PLLA was gradually carbonized with increasing C=C bonds. Controlled micro/nanostructures of PLLA were fabricated with C=C bond-rich surfaces expected to have good cell attachment properties.
Machine Learning-Based Blood RNA Signature for Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is crucial for providing appropriate treatments and parental guidance from an early age. Yet, ASD diagnosis is a lengthy process, in part due to the lack of reliable biomarkers. We recently applied RNA-sequencing of peripheral blood samples from 73 American and Israeli children with ASD and 26 neurotypically developing (NT) children to identify 10 genes with dysregulated blood expression levels in children with ASD. Machine learning (ML) analyzes data by computerized analytical model building and may be applied to building diagnostic tools based on the optimization of large datasets. Here, we present several ML-generated models, based on RNA expression datasets collected during our recently published RNA-seq study, as tentative tools for ASD diagnosis. Using the random forest classifier, two of our proposed models yield an accuracy of 82% in distinguishing children with ASD and NT children. Our proof-of-concept study requires refinement and independent validation by studies with far larger cohorts of children with ASD and NT children and should thus be perceived as starting point for building more accurate ML-based tools. Eventually, such tools may potentially provide an unbiased means to support the early diagnosis of ASD.
An autocorrelation criterion for bandwidth selection in nonparametric regression

In this note, we propose a new method for selecting the bandwidth parameter in non-parametric regression. While standard criteria, such as cross-validation, are based on the true regression curve about which we know little, we propose a criterion which focuses on the true errors about which assumptions may be made. Our proposal is to choose the bandwidth for which the residuals are as uncorrelated as possible. We use the Box-Pierce statistic as the objective to be minimized. In doing so, the behaviour of our residuals will be close to that of the true errors under the hypothesis of independent errors. A simulation study shows that our method succeeds in capturing the main features of the regression curve, in the sense that the number of turning-points of the curve is correctly estimated most of the time.
Variable dimension via stochastic volatility model using FX rates

In this paper, changepoint analysis is applied to stochastic volatility (SV) models which aim to understand the locations and movements of high frequency FX financial time series. Bayesian inference using the Markov Chain Monte Carlo method is performed using a process called variable dimension for SV parameters. Interesting results are that FX series have locations where one or more positions of the sequence correspond to systemic changes, and overall non-stationarity, in the returns process. Furthermore, we found that the changepoint locations provide an informative estimate for all FX series. Importantly in most cases, the detected changepoints can be identified with economic factors relevant to the country concerned. This helps support the fact that macroeconomics news and the movement in financial price are positively related.
Multiplexed detection of aquaculture fungicides using a pump-free optofluidic SERS microsystem

In this paper, we present an optofluidic SERS microsystem suitable for on-site detection of multiplexed analytics in the field. We show simultaneous detection of three fungicides that are highly regulated in aquaculture. The optofluidic SERS microsystem shows improved portability since it does not require a bulky pump for sample loading. The sample is simply drawn into the microchannel using a pipette. Additionally, two fiber optic cables are inserted into the device for sample excitation and photon collection. The fiber optic cables, aligned into the detection zone, eliminate the need for microscope alignment required in traditional SERS detection. The detection zone of the device consists of a porous matrix of packed silica microspheres that traps silver nanoparticles and adsorbed analyte molecules. The sample is passively concentrated into the matrix as it is loaded by applying negative pressure from the outlet with a pipette. The concentrating matrix has been shown to amplify the SERS signal by up to four orders of magnitude as compared to SERS in an open microfluidic channel. We were able to detect as low as 5 ppm methyl parathion, 0.1 ppb malachite green, and 5 ppb thiram simultaneously.
Optical System Design for High‐Energy Particle Beam Diagnostics

Radiation generated by high‐energy particle beams is widely used to characterize the beam properties. While the wavelengths of radiation may vary from visible to x‐rays, the physics underlying the engineering designs are similar. In this tutorial, we discuss the basic considerations for the optical system design in the context of beam instrumentation and the constraints applied by high‐radiation environments. We cover commonly used optical diagnostics: fluorescence flags, visible and x‐ray synchrotron radiation imaging. Emphases will be on achieving desired resolution, accuracy, and reproducibility.
Relationship between symmetry and scaling of spin torque thermal switching barrier

This letter shows that the scaling relationship between the thermal reversal barrier and the (spin polarized) current density in the limit of low current density strongly depends on magnetization dynamics symmetry. This is quite different from magnetic field induced thermal switching. Our analysis demonstrates that the widely used scaling relationship between switching time and current density needs to be modified to include magnetization dynamics symmetry effects. A formula for a thermal reversal barrier symmetry correction factor is given in the limit of low current density. The implications for the estimation of magnetic element thermal stability are discussed.
Dynamic Balance Control of Double Gyros Unicycle Robot Based on Sliding Mode Controller

This paper presents a doublegyroscope unicycle robot, which is dynamically balanced by sliding mode controller and PD controller based on its dynamics. This double−gyroscope robot uses the precession effect of the double gyro system to achieve its lateral balance. The two gyroscopes are at the same speed and in reverse direction so as to ensure that the precession torque of the gyroscopes does not interfere with the longitudinal direction of the unicycle robot. The lateral controller of the unicycle robot is a sliding mode controller. It not only maintains the balance ability of the unicycle robot, but also improves its robustness. The longitudinal controller of the unicycle robot is a PD controller, and its input variables are pitch angle and pitch angular velocity. In order to track the set speed, the speed of the unicycle robot is brought into the longitudinal controller to facilitate the speed control. The dynamic balance of the designed double gyro unicycle robot is verified by simulation and experiment results. At the same time, the anti−interference ability of the designed controller is verified by interference simulation and experiment.
Adaptive optics: optical coherence tomography system for in-vivo imaging of the mouse retina

We present a custom fourier domain optical coherence tomography imaging system for high resolution imaging of mouse retina. In order to overcome aberrations in the mouse eye, we incorporated an adaptive optics system into the sample arm of the OCT system. We used a refraction cancelling lens to minimize aberrations from the cornea, as well as reduce the specular back-reflection. Results of FDOCT images of mouse retina acquired in vivo with and without AO are presented.
Attitudes toward COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake: A Qualitative Study of Mostly Immigrant Racial/Ethnic Minority Older Adults

(1) Background: Few qualitative studies address diverse older adults’ perceptions of COVID-19 vaccination in the United States, including non-English speakers and immigrant populations. This study aims to understand the attitudes of diverse, primarily immigrant older adults in the U.S. toward the COVID-19 vaccine and its influences on their vaccination decision-making. (2) Methods: The research team conducted semi-structured interviews (N = 100) in 2021 focused on understanding ethnically/racially diverse older adults’ perceptions of the COVID-19 vaccine. Interviews were recorded, coded, and analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. (3) Results: Thematic analyses identified three themes. (1) Older adults showed mixed attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine associated with information consumed and trust in healthcare systems; (2) health concerns and underlying medical conditions were the most influential factors of vaccine uptake; and (3) systemic barriers and trusted figures impacted vaccination decision-making of older adults. (4) Conclusions: Accessible information in diverse languages tailored to the community’s fears is needed to combat vaccine mistrust. Vaccine rollout programs need to tackle the fear of vaccine side effects. Attitudes of religious leaders, family members, and physicians considerably influenced vaccine uptake, suggesting their role as trusted members for vaccine messaging for older, primarily immigrant adults. Systemic barriers, namely lack of transportation and inaccessible vaccination sites, contributed to vaccine deterrence.
A Study on the Role of Affective Feedback in Robot-Assisted Learning

In recent years, there have been many approaches to using robots to teach computer programming. In intelligent tutoring systems and computer-aided learning, there is also some research to show that affective feedback to the student increases learning efficiency. However, a few studies on the role of incorporating an emotional personality in the robot in robot-assisted learning have found different results. To explore this issue further, we conducted a pilot study to investigate the effect of positive verbal encouragement and non-verbal emotive behaviour of the Miro-E robot during a robot-assisted programming session. The participants were tasked to program the robot’s behaviour. In the experimental group, the robot monitored the participants’ emotional state via their facial expressions, and provided affective feedback to the participants after completing each task. In the control group, the robot responded in a neutral way. The participants filled out a questionnaire before and after the programming session. The results show a positive reaction of the participants to the robot and the exercise. Though the number of participants was small, as the experiment was conducted during the pandemic, a qualitative analysis of the data was carried out. We found that the greatest affective outcome of the session was for students who had little experience or interest in programming before. We also found that the affective expressions of the robot had a negative impact on its likeability, revealing vestiges of the uncanny valley effect.