Towards Using Probabilistic Models to Design Software Systems with Inherent Uncertainty

The adoption of machine learning (ML) components in software systems raises new engineering challenges. In particular, the inherent uncertainty regarding functional suitability and the operation environment makes architecture evaluation and trade-off analysis difficult. We propose a software architecture evaluation method called Modeling Uncertainty During Design (MUDD) that explicitly models the uncertainty associated to ML components and evaluates how it propagates through a system. The method supports reasoning over how architectural patterns can mitigate uncertainty and enables comparison of different architectures focused on the interplay between ML and classical software components. While our approach is domain-agnostic and suitable for any system where uncertainty plays a central role, we demonstrate our approach using as example a perception system for autonomous driving.Comment: Published at the European Conference on Software Architecture (ECSA

Digital Watermarking using Tiny Genetic Algorithm and Discrete Z Transforms

Today, multimedia data security plays most important role in internet era. Media elements like images, audios and videos are used to embed the data. As the digital media is tremendously growing over the internet, it is very inevitable to show interest in multimedia copyright protection. The aim to propose such a system is to provide secure algorithm for protecting digital image by using digital watermarking approach and extraction of that watermark from existing image to prove the authentication. Digital watermarking is solution for protecting intellectual property of image. To achieve features like robustness and imperceptibility of the image, concept of Discrete Z-Transform is used and for generation of key, Tiny Genetic Algorithm is used. Robustness and imperceptibility are important in digital watermarking process. We assure that the result will be better to sustain attacks like cropping, rotation, filtering and compression and embedded watermark will not be affected. DOI: 10.17762/ijritcc2321-8169.15031

The efficacy and sustainability of the CIMBAA transgenic Cry1B/Cry1C Bt cabbage and cauliflower plants for control of lepidopteran pests

In 2003 the Collaboration on Insect Management for Brassicas in Asia and Africa (CIMBAA) public/private partnership selected the Cry1B/Cry1C Bt protein combination as having the potential to provide effective and sustainable control of diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella. Following transformations and extensive plant selection, insect efficacy trials were undertaken in 2008 to 2010 in north India (Murthal near New Delhi) and south India (near Bengaluru) in large scale screen-house experiments using artificial infestations on the best performing (Elite Event) plant lines and on hybrids produced from them. Plant damage was scored on a scale of 0 (no visible damage) to 4 (plant effectively destroyed). For DBM, cabbage cluster caterpillar (Crocidolomia binotalis), cabbage webworm (Hellula undalis) and semi-looper (Trichoplusia ni) there was zero insect survival and a zero damage score on the Elite Event lines and on their hybrids, while control plants had 50 to 100% insect survival (depending on species, life stage and trials) and damage scores of 3.3 to 4. Cabbage white (Pieris brassicae) and common army worm (Spodoptera litura) showed some larval survival and damage scores up to 1.4 (especially in early trials) but no survival to pupation. Screening of DBM populations worldwide (inc. 18 populations for Cry1B and 13 for Cry1C from India) showed mean LC50s close to that of international susceptible strains. To date F2 screening has not identified the presence of resistance genes in DBM in the field. Cry1B resistance was slowly developed artificially in the laboratory but 1C resistance and resistance to the Cry1B/1C combination was harder to develop and had higher fitness costs. The ‘resistant’ lines showed some extended survival of stunted DBM larvae on dual gene Bt plants but no survival to pupation. There was no cross-resistance between Cry1B and Cry1C. Resistance to both genes was autosomal and recessive. Beneficial insects were demonstrated to have the potential to provide additional mortality on rare surviving insects in Bt fields. Aphids were well controlled for the first 40 days post-transplanting using imidacloprid pelleted onto seed and, if necessary, by 1-2 Verticillium lecanii sprays thereafter. Surviving S. litura and Helicoverpa armigera in Bt sprayed fields were well controlled by one or two application

Loungu (Carpenter worm): Indigenous Delicious Insects with Immense Dietary Potential in Nagaland state, India

145-151Carpenter worms of genus Cossus (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) are common wood-boring insects that can cause significant damage to several economically important plant species across the globe. Nevertheless, these worms are a popular delicacy among the indigenous population of Nagaland state of India since age old days. The carpenter worms (locally known as ‘Loungu’) are culturally significant during the Te-l Khukhu festival of Southern Angami region, annually held during July. The direct larval consumption is also cited for medicinal value. Rearing of carpenter worm is gaining popularity in hill tracts of Nagaland, because of its potential as a viable source of income for the rural population. The present study aimed to determine the eventual nutritional value of the larva by approximating its nutritional potential for the first time. Proximate analysis presents a significantly higher value of crude fat (37%), crude protein (48%), crude fibre (12.90%) and an appreciable calorific value. Close correlation between increased polyphenol value with its higher antioxidant capacity and pigment content is strongly evident. Nevertheless, the larva also provides appreciable quantities of dietary minerals reflected in terms of higher zinc and iron content. Analysis of thin layer chromatography undertaken in the study interestingly identified some of the essential amino acids, viz., methionine, lysine, leucine, histidine, threonine etc. This is the first report pioneering other detail studies to establish the significant value of carpenter worm larvae as an exotic dietary supplement among the indigenous Naga population, thereby providing more impetus for its promotion and commercialization

Loungu (Carpenter worm): Indigenous Delicious Insects with Immense Dietary Potential in Nagaland state, India

Carpenter worms of genus Cossus (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) are common wood-boring insects that can cause significant damage to several economically important plant species across the globe. Nevertheless, these worms are a popular delicacy among the indigenous population of Nagaland state of India since age old days. The carpenter worms (locally known as ‘Loungu’) are culturally significant during the Te-l Khukhu festival of Southern Angami region, annually held during July. The direct larval consumption is also cited for medicinal value. Rearing of carpenter worm is gaining popularity in hill tracts of Nagaland, because of its potential as a viable source of income for the rural population. The present study aimed to determine the eventual nutritional value of the larva by approximating its nutritional potential for the first time. Proximate analysis presents a significantly higher value of crude fat (37%), crude protein (48%), crude fibre (12.90%) and an appreciable calorific value. Close correlation between increased polyphenol value with its higher antioxidant capacity and pigment content is strongly evident. Nevertheless, the larva also provides appreciable quantities of dietary minerals reflected in terms of higher zinc and iron content. Analysis of thin layer chromatography undertaken in the study interestingly identified some of the essential amino acids, viz., methionine, lysine, leucine, histidine, threonine etc. This is the first report pioneering other detail studies to establish the significant value of carpenter worm larvae as an exotic dietary supplement among the indigenous Naga population, thereby providing more impetus for its promotion and commercialization

TECHNICAL ADVANCE: Indel arrays: an affordable alternative for genotyping

SummaryNatural variation and induced mutations are important resources for gene discovery and the elucidation of genetic circuits. Mapping such polymorphisms requires rapid and cost‐efficient methods for genome‐wide genotyping. Here we report the development of a microarray‐based method that assesses 240 unique markers in a single hybridization experiment at a cost of less than US$50 in materials per line. Our genotyping array is built with 70‐mer oligonucleotide elements representing insertion/deletion (indel) polymorphisms between the Arabidopsis thaliana accessions Columbia‐0 (Col) and Landsberg erecta (Ler). These indel polymorphisms are recognized with great precision by comparative genomic hybridization, eliminating the need for array replicates and complex statistical analysis. Markers are present genome‐wide, with an average spacing of approximately 500 kb. PCR primer information is provided for all array indels, allowing rapid single‐locus inquiries. Multi‐well chips allow groups of 16 lines to be genotyped in a single experiment. We demonstrate the utility of the array for accurately mapping recessive mutations, RIL populations and mixed genetic backgrounds from accessions other than Col and Ler. Given the ease of use of shotgun sequencing to generate partial genomic sequences of unsequenced species, this approach is readily transferable to non‐model organisms

Crafting the Composite Garment: The role of hand weaving in digital creation

There is a growing body of practice-led textile research, focused on how digital technologies can inform new design and production strategies that challenge and extend the field. To date, this research has emphasized a traditional linear transition between hand and digital production; with hand production preceding digital as a means of acquiring the material and process knowledge required to negotiate technologies and conceptualize designs. This paper focuses on current Doctoral research into the design and prototyping of 3D woven or 'composite' garments and how the re-learning, or reinterpreting, of hand weaving techniques in a digital Jacquard format relies heavily on experiential knowledge of craft weaving skills. Drawing parallels between hand weaving and computer programming, that extend beyond their shared binary (pixel-based) language, the paper discusses how the machine-mediated experience of hand weaving can prime the weaver to ‘think digitally’ and make the transition to digital production. In a process where the weaver acts simultaneously as designer, constructor and programmer, the research explores the inspiring, but often indefinable space between craft and digital technology by challenging the notion that 'the relationship between hand, eye and material’ naturally precedes the use of computing (Harris 2012: 93). This is achieved through the development of an iterative working methodology that encompasses a cycle of transitional development, where hand weaving and digital processes take place in tandem, and techniques and skills are reinterpreted to exploit the advantages and constraints of each construction method. It is argued that the approach challenges the codes and conventions of computer programming, weaving and fashion design to offer a more sustainable clothing solution

A Systematic Review on Effect of Electronic Media on Diet, Exercise, and Sexual Activity among Adolescents.

Context: Electronic media has become a part of day-to-day life for all, and particularly more so for children and adolescents. Exposure to electronic media may be beneficial as well as harmful. Aim: The aim of the study is to systematically synthesize existing published and non-published empirical evidence on the effect of exposure to electronic media on diet, exercise, and sexual activity. Methodology: Two reviewers independently searched online databases such as MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and EMBASE. We applied no language, date, or publication restrictions. Selection Criteria: We included randomized control trials that assessed the effect of exposure of electronic media on diet, exercise, and sexual activity in participants between 5 and 19 years. Study Selection Data Extraction: Two reviewers independently screened studies identified in electronic search and independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias of included studies. Data Analysis: We had planned to use the risk ratio or odds ratio for dichotomous data, and mean difference (MD) or standardized MD for continuous data. However, as included studied differed in types of intervention and reporting of outcomes, we did not undertake meta-analysis. Main Results: All included trials were parallel randomized controlled trials except for one that was a crossover trial. Eight studies reported the effect of electronic media on diet and exercise, two on diet, two on exercise, and one on sexual activity. Quality of evidence was rated as "very low" for all outcomes due to too little information or too few data to be able to reach to any conclusions. Conclusions: There is a little body of evidence that limits conclusions. We need to comprehend as to how to swap undesirable effects of electronic media and make it more desirable. Registration of Systematic Review: This systematic review has been registered at PROSPERO International prospective register of systematic reviews (Registration number: PROSPERO 2018 CRD42018086935) available at https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=86935

A Systematic Review on Effect of Electronic Media among Children and Adolescents on Substance Abuse.

Background: Substance abuse is one of the most significant global public health issues among youths. Electronic media has become a part of day-to-day life for all. This systematic review is undertaken to comprehensively explore the effect of electronic media on substance abuse among children and adolescents. Methodology: Two review authors independently searched various electronic databases and other sources. Selection Criteria: Randomized control trials that assessed the effect of exposure of electronic media (defined as television, internet, gaming, mobile phones/phones, and radio) among participants in the age range of 5-19 years on substance abuse were included in the review. Data Collection and Analysis: Two reviewers independently extracted data. We used an approach proposed by the Cochrane Collaboration. We used GRADE profiler to assess the overall quality of the evidence. Main Results: We retrieved 6003 studies and found 15 studies that fulfilled our inclusion criteria. Since included studies differed in the type of intervention and reporting of outcomes, we did not undertake meta-analysis and choose to describe studies narratively. Quality of evidence was rated as "very low" due to too little information or too few data to be able to reach any conclusions. Authors' Conclusions: Clinicians, policymakers, and educators to partner with caregivers and youth to support electronic media use that promotes positive outcome in these areas. Registration of Systematic Review: This systematic review has been registered at PROSPERO International prospective register of systematic reviews (Registration number: PROSPERO 2018 CRD42018086935) available at https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID = 86935

Variations in seasonal solar insolation are associated with a history of suicide attempts in bipolar I disorder

Background: Bipolar disorder is associated with circadian disruption and a high risk of suicidal behavior. In a previous exploratory study of patients with bipolar I disorder, we found that a history of suicide attempts was associated with diferences between winter and summer levels of solar insolation. The purpose of this study was to confrm this fnding using international data from 42% more collection sites and 25% more countries. Methods: Data analyzed were from 71 prior and new collection sites in 40 countries at a wide range of latitudes. The analysis included 4876 patients with bipolar I disorder, 45% more data than previously analyzed. Of the patients, 1496 (30.7%) had a history of suicide attempt. Solar insolation data, the amount of the sun's electromagnetic energy striking the surface of the earth, was obtained for each onset location (479 locations in 64 countries). Results: This analysis confrmed the results of the exploratory study with the same best model and slightly better statistical signifcance. There was a signifcant inverse association between a history of suicide attempts and the ratio of mean winter insolation to mean summer insolation (mean winter insolation/mean summer insolation). This ratio is largest near the equator which has little change in solar insolation over the year, and smallest near the poles where the winter insolation is very small compared to the summer insolation. Other variables in the model associated with an increased risk of suicide attempts were a history of alcohol or substance abuse, female gender, and younger birth cohort. The winter/summer insolation ratio was also replaced with the ratio of minimum mean monthly insolation to the maximum mean monthly insolation to accommodate insolation patterns in the tropics, and nearly identical results were found. All estimated coefcients were signifcant at p<0.01. Conclusion: A large change in solar insolation, both between winter and summer and between the minimum and maximum monthly values, may increase the risk of suicide attempts in bipolar I disorder. With frequent circadian rhythm dysfunction and suicidal behavior in bipolar disorder, greater understanding of the optimal roles of daylight and electric lighting in circadian entrainment is needed. Keywords: Bipolar disorder, Suicide, Sunlight, Solar insolation, Psychiatry, Circadian, Seasonal variatio