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RubyConf 2016 - Ruby, Red Pandas, and You by Sean Marcia Red pandas are adorable, playful, curious, and super cute. Unfortunately, they are in serious trouble. Over 50% of red panda newborns born in captivity do not survive long enough to leave their den and no one knows why. Come find out why red pandas are so amazing, how I met a Smithsonian Zoo researcher studying this and how we’re solving this important problem using Ruby and machine learning. You will also leave this talk knowing how you can get involved (no matter your skill level) with great projects like this.
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In the talk "Ruby, Red Pandas, and You" presented at RubyConf 2016, Sean Marcia discusses the plight of red pandas and how technology, specifically Ruby and machine learning, can aid in their conservation. The presentation delves into the following key points: - **Introduction to Red Pandas**: Marcia describes red pandas as adorable yet endangered creatures, highlighting their unique classification as carnivores despite a bamboo-heavy diet and their declining population due to poaching and habitat loss. - **Research on Red Pandas**: He introduces Elizabeth Freeman from George Mason University, who studies red panda nesting behaviors. The challenges of monitoring these animals in captivity and the high mortality rate of cubs born there are emphasized. - **Use of Technology**: The talk details Marcia's previous experience monitoring beehives and how it led him to apply similar techniques to red panda research. By implementing machine learning and neural networks, he addresses the inefficiencies of manual video analysis—where researchers watch extensive footage to record panda activities. - **Machine Learning Application**: Marcia outlines his process of converting video footage into still images for easier analysis using TensorFlow. He trained a classifier to detect red pandas, ultimately improving efficiency and allowing researchers to focus on more critical aspects of panda care and conservation. - **Community Engagement**: Highlighting Ruby for Good, Marcia emphasizes the importance of community involvement in such projects, encouraging attendees to contribute to meaningful efforts that make a difference. - **Concluding Thoughts**: He stresses the value of kindness and collaboration in programming and motivates the audience to engage in conservation projects, reminding them that every small effort counts. Marcia's session not only informs about the challenges faced by red pandas but also offers an inspiring example of using programming skills for wildlife conservation, illustrating how technology can play a significant role in addressing environmental challenges.
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