Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Towards Resilient Computing on ROS for Embedded Applications

Systems are expected to evolve during their service life in order to cope with changes of various natures, ranging from fluctuations in available resources to additional features requested by users. For dependable embedded systems, the challenge is even greater, as evolution must not impair dependability attributes. Resilient computing implies maintaining dependability properties when facing changes. Resilience encompasses several aspects, among which evolvability, i.e., the capacity of a system to evolve during its service life. In this paper, we discuss the evolution of systems with respect to their dependability mechanisms, and show how such mechanisms can evolve accordingly. From a component-based approach that enables to clarify the concepts, the process and the techniques to be used to address resilient computing, in particular regarding the adaptation of fault tolerance (or safety) mechanisms, we show how Adaptive Fault Tolerance (AFT) can be implemented with ROS. Beyond some implementation details given in the paper, we draw the lessons learned from this work and discus the limits of this runtime support to implement such resilient computing features in embedded systems.
A Hybrid Encoded and Adapted-tuned Neural Network for Asset Medical Image Watermarking Technique

Digital image watermarking techniques are used to authenticate identity of owners and copyright protection of asset images. Asset medical images (AMI) specially require extreme care when embed a watermark message because additional information should affect the AMI quality and the changes in AMI gray levels may interfere with its interpretation. This paper introduces a hybrid encoded and adapted-tuned neural network (TNN) for AMI watermarking technique to cover almost essential watermarking requirements. To attain robustness, security and invisibility, uses human visual system (HVS) and TNN to tune the AMI and to find the maximum amount of adaptive watermark message before the watermark message becomes visible. To achieve transparency, enhance AMI using histogram equalization. Embedding is performed into the middle frequency coefficients of discrete cosine transform of the AMI, to avoid visual parts in the low frequency coefficient and the noise and attacks in high frequency to improve image robustness and increase capacity comparing to spatial domain.
Sharing emotions or/and making allies: the emoji’s interpersonal function in Chinese social media news comments

ABSTRACT This article explores the semiotic capabilities of emoji in realizing attitude and building alignment via Chinese social media. The news comments section on Weibo is filled with readers’ evaluative responses, making it a suitable site for examining the interpersonal function of emoji. Drawing on appraisal, the analysis of emoji and emoji-text interactions in the news comments is associated with a car quality story. The findings show that a commenter’s position is contingently forged through the concordant or discordant coupling of ideation with attitude across language and emoji. Instead of construing particular attitude, some emoji serve as a bondicon featuring friendlies to convene readers around negative appraisal, irony or humor in the text. Besides, a few emoji perform a dual part of carrying evaluation and signaling membership in the comments. For Weibo news readers, the multifunctional emoji become a strategical tool of public participation in sociopolitical issues.
Molecular analysis of bovine leukemia virus in early epidemic phase in Japan using archived formalin fixed paraffin embedded histopathological specimens

Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is an important pathogen associated with enzootic bovine leukosis. In this study, we performed PCR and sequencing analysis to characterize BLVgp51 sequences from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) specimens made from 1974 to 2000 and successfully obtained BLV proviral genome sequences from 94% of the analyzed samples. Furthermore, from these samples, we reconstructed eight full-length and nearly full-length BLVgp51 sequences. These sequences were classified as BLV genotype 1, implying that genotype1 has already been circulating in Japan since the 1970s. In our results, the proviral DNA was detected in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s in the same manner, indicating that the detection of BLV proviral genome depends on storage conditions rather than storage period. The sequences obtained in this study provide direct insights into BLV sequences before 2000, which serves as a good calibrator for inferring ancient BLV diversity.
Grid-side power factor optimisation for Matrix Converters in mobile mining vehicle applications

Matrix Converters provide an efficient, compact and reliable alternative to the traditional AC/DC/AC converters in mobile mining vehicles applications. In such applications it is desirable to maintain the grid-side power factor close to unity. This paper addresses this requirement by proposing a novel method that achieves: unity power factor when this is possible, maximum power factor otherwise, and smooth transitions between these conditions, without disruptions and discontinuities, over the entire operational range of variable speed drive applications. The paper presents theoretical background, an optimisation study of the grid-side power factor, and a detailed derivation of the the proposed algorithm. Simulation results included in the paper validate the proposed method under simulated conditions of the electric vehicle application.
Reexamining Phase-shifted Full-bridge Converter with PWM Ripple Current

Phase-shifted full-bridge (PSFB) converter is a widely popular topology in dc-dc conversion applications due to its attractive features of isolation, constant frequency operation and soft-switching of the primary devices without requiring additional support circuitry. Typically, a ripple-free filter inductor current is assumed for simplifying the analysis, which is valid only for large sized output filters. In high-power-density converters, particularly in the soft-switched high-frequency dc-dc topologies, small-sized output filters are desirable. In such systems, where there is notable PWM ripple current, such a simplifying assumption for converter analysis is not valid. In this paper, this aspect is explored and impact of the PWM ripple on PSFB design and soft-switching operation are quantitatively analysed. Detailed analysis of the dependency of output voltage and soft-switching characteristics on PWM ripple and other circuit parameters such as leakage inductance and switching frequency and load are presented. The deviations in behavior from the conventional ripple-free assumption are presented. Simulation results for a 2kW, 400V to 48V converter along with experimental results on a reduced-rated PSFB converter are presented to validate the proposed analysis.
Dynamic and thermal effects of the Tibetan and Iranian Plateaus on the northward-propagating intraseasonal oscillation during boreal summer

This study investigates the dynamic and thermal effects of the Tibetan and Iranian Plateaus (TIP) on the characteristics of the northward-propagating boreal summer intraseasonal oscillation (BSISO), and reveals associated physical mechanisms. The relative importance of the Tibetan Plateau (TP) and Iranian Plateau (IP) to the northward propagation of BSISO is also detected. The findings are based on comparative analyses of the control run and six sensitivity experiments using the atmospheric model component of CAS FGOALS-f3-L (the low-resolution version of the Chinese Academy of Sciences Flexible Global Ocean–Atmosphere–Land System model, finite-volume version 3). It is demonstrated that the absence of TIP surface sensible heat or terrain restricts the occurrence of upper-level easterly and lower-level westerly anomalies, as well as moisture convergence over the Asian summer monsoon (ASM) region, which leads to a weakened easterly vertical wind shear with a narrowed range and the generation of a negative meridional specific humidity gradient in the northern Bay of Bengal. These mean-state changes are not conducive to the formation of positive barotropic vorticity together with planetary boundary layer moisture convergence to the north of the convective center, thus impeding the northward propagation of the BSISO. Results indicate that the TIP, via its dynamic and thermal effects, modulates the northward-propagating BSISO by directly affecting the vertical wind shear and meridional moisture gradient in the northern Indian Ocean. By contrast, the TP plays a decisive role in the BSISO northward propagation due to the limited dynamic and thermal effects of IP on the background circulation and water vapor convergence over the ASM region.
Efficient numerical solution of one‐phase linear inverse Stefan and Cauchy–Stefan problems in two dimensions: A posteriori error control

The efficient numerical solution of the one‐phase linear inverse Stefan and Cauchy–Stefan problems is a delicate task owing to the problems' susceptibility to the perturbation of the given data. In this context, heuristic a posteriori error indicators are constructed for such inverse problems with noisy data in two dimensions (2D). Given a fixed computational effort, the estimator controls the error due to discretization by the method of fundamental solution (MFS). It is accomplished through two mean‐driven double‐filtering algorithms. Numerical results substantiate the effectiveness of the algorithms.
The First Report of the Genera Abaria and Drepanocentron (Trichoptera: Xiphocentronidae) from China, with Descriptions of Two New Species

Simple Summary The small family Xiphocentronidae Ross 1949 (186 species and 7 genera) has a wide distribution and high diversity in the Oriental region. Despite the rich biodiversity of Trichoptera in eastern China, only one xiphocentronid genus (Melanotrichia), with three species, is recognized. The status of Xiphocentronidae as an evolutionary lineage distinct from Psychomyiidae has been subject to debate in the past. The specimens in this study provide additional records on the distribution of two genera in China, which are conducive to biological and morphological studies and can also provide molecular data support for further studies. Abstract The genera Abaria Mosely 1948 and Drepanocentron Schmid 1982 are recorded in China for the first time. In this study, two new species, Abaria herringbona sp. nov., from Guang-xi, and Drepanocentron fuxiensis sp. nov., from An-hui, are described and illustrated. Male genitalia of these two new species is distinguishable from those of other Abaria and Drepanocentron species. In addition, Melanotrichia attia Malicky & Chantaramongkol 1992 is a new record for the Chinese caddisfly fauna.
Impact of a Digital Intervention for Literacy in Depression among Portuguese University Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Digital interventions are important tools to promote mental health literacy among university students. “Depression in Portuguese University Students” (Depressão em Estudantes Universitários Portugueses, DEEP) is an audiovisual intervention describing how symptoms can be identified and what possible treatments can be applied. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of this intervention. A random sample of 98 students, aged 20–38 years old, participated in a 12-week study. Participants were recruited through social media by the academic services and institutional emails of two Portuguese universities. Participants were contacted and distributed into four study groups (G1, G2, G3 and G4): G1 received the DEEP intervention in audiovisual format; G2 was given the DEEP in text format; G3 received four news articles on depression; G4 was the control group. A questionnaire was shared to collect socio-demographic and depression knowledge data as a pre-intervention method; content was then distributed to each group following a set schedule; the depression knowledge questionnaire was then administered to compare pre-intervention, post-intervention and follow-up literacy levels. Using the Scheffé and Least Significant Difference (LSD) multiple comparisons test, it was found that G1, which received the DEEP audiovisual intervention, differed significantly from the other groups, with higher depression knowledge scores in post-intervention stages. The DEEP audiovisual intervention, compared to the other formats used (narrative text format; news format), proved to be an effective tool for increasing depression knowledge in university students.
Study of employees and management percetion on orientation strategies as employee retention strategies

This paper highlights the context within which specific orientation strategies as employee retention strategies have perceived by employees and management in various organizations in Bangalore, where there is a critical need to investigate the dynamics of employee retention orientation practices among MNCs and Indian firms. Using a structured self completing questionnaire having almost similarity in items for both employees and management with special reference to orientation strategies and their adaptability, the data has been collected on 550 respondents (335 employees and 215 management). Contingency coefficient analysis was employed to find out the perceptual differences between employees and management. Results revealed that respondents from management agreed significantly more on the orientation strategies like arranging induction programme for the employees, preparing training and development plan for employees than respondents from employee side. In the case of recognizing employee's family for their best performance as an orientation strategy, employees had higher agreement than respondents from management. Respondents from management and employees side had similar perception on providing initial training for the employees, conveying the company rules and regulations, educating employees about privileges in the organization, preparing training and development plan for employees, providing job description, educating employees about organization vision, mission and expectations. For most of the orientation strategies both management and employees had higher levels of agreement.
A physics perspective on collective animal behavior

The dynamic patterns and coordinated motion displayed by groups of social animals are a beautiful example of self-organization in natural far-from-equilibrium systems. Recent advances in active-matter physics have enticed physicists to begin to consider how their results can be extended from microscale physical or biological systems to groups of real, macroscopic animals. At the same time, advances in measurement technology have led to the increasing availability of high-quality empirical data for the behavior of animal groups both in the laboratory and in the wild. In this review, I survey this available data and the ways that it has been analyzed. I then describe how physicists have approached synthesizing, modeling, and interpreting this information, both at the level of individual animals and at the group scale. In particular, I focus on the kinds of analogies that physicists have made between animal groups and more traditional areas of physics.
Analgesia for major laparoscopic abdominal surgery: a randomised feasibility trial using intrathecal morphine

Effective pain control enhances patient recovery after surgery. Laparoscopic techniques for major abdominal surgery are increasingly utilised to reduce surgical trauma. Intrathecal morphine is an attractive analgesic option that is gaining popularity. However, limited evidence guides its use in the setting of laparoscopic surgery. In addition, enhanced recovery after surgery pathways advocate opioid‐sparing techniques. We conducted a feasibility trial to compare intrathecal morphine with non‐neuraxial analgesia in laparoscopic or laparoscopic‐assisted major abdominal surgery to inform the design of a future large clinical trial. This multicentre, double‐blind, randomised controlled trial was conducted at two tertiary hospitals in Australia. Fifty‐one patients were randomly allocated to receive either intrathecal morphine (intervention group) or a sham subcutaneous injection of normal saline in the lumbar area (control group) immediately before the induction of general anaesthesia. Co‐primary outcomes were patient recruitment and successful adherence to treatment allocation as per the study protocol. The primary endpoints of feasibility and protocol adherence were met with a 46% recruitment rate (51 of 110 eligible patients) and 96% protocol adherence. There was only one patient with failed access to the intrathecal space. For secondary endpoints, fewer patients in the intrathecal morphine group required opioids in the post‐anaesthesia care unit, their postoperative pain scores at rest were lower across the four time‐points measured (p = 0.007), but not dynamic pain scores (p = 0.061), and pruritus was more common following intrathecal morphine (p = 0.007). Total oral morphine equivalents until postoperative day 3 were less in the intrathecal morphine group (median (95%CI) difference 82 (−13 to 168) mg), but this reduction was not statistically significant (p = 0.10). These findings support conducting a definitive clinical trial.
The Electrostatic Basis of Diacylglycerol Pyrophosphate—Protein Interaction

Diacylglycerol pyrophosphate (DGPP) is an anionic phospholipid formed in plants, yeast, and parasites under multiple stress stimuli. It is synthesized by the phosphorylation action of phosphatidic acid (PA) kinase on phosphatidic acid, a signaling lipid with multifunctional properties. PA functions in the membrane through the interaction of its negatively charged phosphomonoester headgroup with positively charged proteins and ions. DGPP, like PA, can interact electrostatically via the electrostatic-hydrogen bond switch mechanism but differs from PA in its overall charge and shape. The formation of DGPP from PA alters the physicochemical properties as well as the structural dynamics of the membrane. This potentially impacts the molecular and ionic binding of cationic proteins and ions with the DGPP enriched membrane. However, the results of these important interactions in the stress response and in DGPP’s overall intracellular function is unknown. Here, using 31P MAS NMR, we analyze the effect of the interaction of low DGPP concentrations in model membranes with the peptides KALP23 and WALP23, which are flanked by positively charged Lysine and neutral Tryptophan residues, respectively. Our results show a significant effect of KALP23 on the charge of DGPP as compared to WALP23. There was, however, no significant effect on the charge of the phosphomonoester of DGPP due to the interaction with positively charged lipids, dioleoyl trimethylammonium propane (DOTAP) and dioleoyl ethyl-phosphatidylcholine (EtPC). Divalent calcium and magnesium cations induce deprotonation of the DGPP headgroup but showed no noticeable differences on DGPP’s charge. Our results lead to a novel model for DGPP—protein interaction.
Multi-agent modeling for water policy impact assessment: a road map

Water policies have a great impact upon different types of resources (water, land and soil resources; infrastructure and facilities; financial resources; environmental knowledge and information; etc.). They involve many individual or collective actors (users, managers, public or private companies, associations, etc.) as well as rules and norms of behavior that these actors are the recipients or agents. Complex systems, if any, these policies have several kinds of effects, expected and unexpected, direct and indirect effects, societal, economic, environmental and eco-systemic. The current development of multi-agent platforms opens up a new area for the definition, design, implementation and monitoring of water management by producing ex ante simulations of the impact of measures that promote water public policies and of the likely evolution of the socio-hydrosystem concerned. Here we give a quick overview of these new opportunities of water policy modeling and impact assessment. We summarize the steps of the modeling process and present the main ingredients entering in the composition of a platform dedicated to impact simulations. We also argue the interest of building water scenarios and producing useful indicators for decision-making regarding the use, distribution and management of water resources at the basin-scale.
Use of object detection in camera trap image identification: assessing a method to rapidly and accurately classify human and animal detections for research and application in recreation ecology

Camera traps are increasingly used to answer complex ecological questions. However, the rapidly growing number of images collected presents technical challenges. Each image must be classified to extract data, requiring significant labour, and potentially creating an information bottleneck. We applied an object-detection model (MegaDetector) to camera trap data from a study of recreation ecology in British Columbia, Canada. We tested its performance in detecting humans and animals relative to manual image classifications, and assessed efficiency by comparing the time required for manual classification versus a modified workflow integrating object-detection with manual classification. We also evaluated the reliability of using MegaDetector to create an index of human activity for application to the study of recreation impacts to wildlife. In our application, MegaDetector detected human and animal images with 99% and 82% precision, and 95% and 92% recall respectively, at a confidence threshold of 90%. The overall time required to process the dataset was reduced by over 500%, and the manual processing component was reduced by 840%. The index of human detection events from MegaDetector matched the output from manual classification, with a mean 0.45% difference in estimated human detections across site-weeks. Our test of an open-source object-detection model showed it performed well in partially classifying a camera trap dataset, significantly increasing processing efficiency. We suggest that this tool could be integrated into existing camera trap workflows to accelerate research and application by alleviating data bottlenecks, particularly for surveys processing large volumes of human images. We also show how the model and workflow can be used to anonymize human images prior to classification, protecting individual privacy. Impact Statement We developed and tested a workflow for classifying camera trap images that integrated an existing object-detection model with manual image classification. Our workflow demonstrates an increase in efficiency of 500% over manual labelling, and additionally includes a method to anonymize human images prior to archiving and classification. We provide an example of the application of these tools to ease data processing, particularly for studies focused on recreation ecology which record high volumes of human images. Data lags due to processing delays have the potential to result in sub-optimal conservation decisions, which may be alleviated by accelerated processing. To our knowledge, this is the first in-depth assessment of the practical application of such technology to real world workflows focused on human detections.