bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating beluga whale abundance from space: using drones to ground‐validate VHR satellite imagery
Authors: Stewart Jordan B. , Hudson Justine M. , Sherbo Bryanna A. H. , Watt Cortney A.
Published: May 2024

Routine monitoring of cetaceans is imperative for understanding their population trends and making informed management decisions. However, the inherent nature of cetaceans and the marine ecosystems they inhabit make annual population surveys logistically and economically challenging with current survey methods. One emerging solution is utilizing very high‐resolution (VHR) satellite imagery, which is a logistically efficient method for providing an instantaneous view of areas spanning hundreds of square kilometers. The objective of this study was to determine two factors required to reliably conduct beluga whale population abundance estimates with VHR satellite imagery: (1) depths that beluga whales are visible in VHR satellite images, which are used to define availability bias correction factors, and (2) a comparison of abundance estimates in VHR satellite imagery to current aerial methods. We submerged beluga whale models to different depths in two different water clarities and determined that beluga whales are distinguished only at the surface in turbid water (Secchi depth: 2.56 m) and at depths of 0–2 m in clear water (Secchi depth: 4.04 m). Based on the proportion of time beluga whales spend at these depths, an availability bias correction factor for Western Hudson Bay beluga whales was defined as 2.40 ± 0.16 for turbid water and 1.89 ± 0.05 for clear water. Synchronous ground‐validation surveys determined availability corrected beluga whale abundance estimates in 0.31 m VHR satellite imagery (n = 173 beluga whales) and imagery that was HD sharpened using a proprietary algorithm to approximate 0.15 m resolution (n = 170) to be comparable to drone imagery (n = 164). VHR satellite imagery has the potential to increase the frequency of beluga whale population surveys, which has become increasingly important as beluga whales face rapid ecosystem changes and increased anthropogenic disturbances.
An Enhanced Optical Response and Interfacial Charge Separation Of rGO Supported Cu2+ Doped Co3O4 Heterojunction For Photo‐Fenton‐Like Activity
Authors: Udhayakeerthana C. , Palanivel Baskaran , Vignesh K. , Kalaivani T.
Published: May 2024

In recent years, clean water and increasing the usage of renewable energy have been the two main goals to be focused on in developing a sustainable living environment. These goals can also be fulfilled by using photocatalytic processes which is a promising direction, photocatalyst is quite effective for water purification and sustainable energy resources. For the first time, we report a visible‐light‐driven photocatalyst of rGO/Cu−Co3O4 nanocomposite for photo‐Fenton‐like degradation activity. The structural, morphological, surface chemical and optical properties of the samples were deeply analysed. The Cu2+ replacement reduces the crystalline size of the Co3O4 nanoparticle and rGO addition enhances the active surface area and charge mobility towards the better catalytic activity. The effect of operating parameters such as pH, catalyst dose, dye concentration, and H2O2 was also investigated for methylene blue (MB) dye degradation: kinetic studies, active radicals finding, and percentage of total organic carbon removal were also discussed in detail.
Using Silica Aerogel Layers for the Stabilization of Zn Metal Anodes in Zn‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Jincheng , Jiang Bingchun , Ling Lei , Lu Yusheng , Zou Tianyu , Cao Bozhong , Zhang Tong
Published: May 2024

Aqueous zinc ion batteries have the advantages of low cost, high safety, high theoretical specific capacity. However, the charging and discharging process is usually accompanied by side reactions such as dendrite growth, hydrogenolysis, corrosion of electrodes, passivation, etc., which limits the development and application. In this work, the zinc anode is modified by constructing a silica aerogel layer with ultra‐high specific surface area and abundant polar functional groups (−OH, −COOH, −CH3), which not only provides abundant active sites for the uniform deposition of zinc ions, but also construct an artificial protective layer that acting as a desolvation layer and a zinc ion flux regulator. Consequently, the altered zinc anode exhibits an extremely durable zincophilic characteristic and a declining interfacial impedance. The constructed artificial layer can prevent side reactions and promote uniform zinc ion deposition to prevent the generation of zinc dendrites during the charge/discharge process. Results show that the symmetric cells composed of modified Zn anodes can be stably cycled for more than 1100 h at 0.5 mA cm−2 and 0.5 mAh cm−2, which is much higher than that of bare Zn. In addition, the life and capacity retention of the Zn/MnO2 full cells were also significantly improved.
Reticular Chemistry Directed “One‐Pot” Strategy to in situ Construct Organic Linkers and Zirconium‐Organic Frameworks
Authors: Han Chao‐Qin , Wang Lei , Si Jincheng , Zhou Kang , Liu Xiao‐Yuan
Published: May 2024

Zirconium‐based metal–organic frameworks (Zr‐MOFs) have emerged as one of the most studied MOFs due to the unlimited numbers of organic linkers and the varying Zr‐oxo clusters. However, the synthesis of carboxylic acids, especially multitopic carboxylic acids, is always a great challenge for the discovery of new Zr‐MOFs. As an alternative approach, the in situ “one‐pot” strategy can address this limitation, where the generation of organic linkers from the corresponding precursors and the sequential construction of MOFs are integrated into one solvothermal condition. Herein, inspired by benzimidazole‐contained compounds synthesized via reaction of aldehyde and o‐phenylenediamine, tri‐, tetra‐, penta‐ and hexa‐topic carboxylic acids and a series of corresponding Zr‐MOFs can be prepared via the in situ “one‐pot” method under the same solvothermal conditions. This strategy can be utilized not only to prepare reported Zr‐MOFs constructed using benzimidazole‐contained linkers, but also to rationally design, construct and realize functionalities of zirconium‐pentacarboxylate frameworks guided by reticular chemistry. More importantly, in situ “one‐pot” method can facilitate the discovery of new Zr‐MOFs, such as zirconium‐hexacarboxylate frameworks. The present study demonstrates the promising potential of benzimidazole‐inspired in situ “one‐pot” approach in the crystal engineering of structure‐ and property‐specific Zr‐MOFs, especially with the guidance of reticular chemistry.
A new plant genus and species from south‐eastern Spain: Castrila latens (Rubieae, Rubiaceae)
Authors: Blanca Gabriel , Schuler Samira Ben‐Menni , Blanca Helena , Cueto Miguel , Fuentes Julián , Ortega‐Olivencia Ana , Suárez‐Santiago Víctor N.
Published: May 2024

A new genus and species, Castrila latens, native to the south‐eastern Iberian Peninsula, is described here for the first time and compared with its closest relatives. The plant is characterized by being annual, glabrous, having reduplicate leaves in whorls of (5)6–7, inflorescences capitate and involucrate, corolla shortly hypocrateriform and white, with yellowish doliiform tube, stamens included, and ovary and mericarps densely papillose. An endemic plant, it grows on the calcareous mountains of the Sierra Seca, Sierra de Castril, and Sierra de la Cabrilla, between 1800 and 2100 m of elevation, in the Granada and Jaén provinces (eastern Andalusia, Spain). For this genus and species, a description, an illustration, a distribution map, the chromosome number, the assessment of the conservation status, an estimate of the breeding system, and the situation in the Rubieae phylogenetic tree are provided.
Researchers Training Researchers: Ethics Training in Quantitative Applied Linguistics
Authors: Wood Margaret , Sterling Scott , Larsson Tove , Plonsky Luke , Kytö Merja , Yaw Kate
Published: May 2024

This forum piece reports on a brief survey of current quantitative research ethics training materials in Applied Linguistics (AL). This survey was conducted as a step towards an increased understanding of the ways in which we, as a field, train students and researchers to conduct quantitative research ethically. The survey was carried out in the process of creating research ethics training materials as part of a grant‐funded project related to questionable research practices (QRPs). Through manual and computer‐assisted searches in twenty‐four textbooks and twenty‐three course syllabi from the past five years, three themes emerged: (1) research ethics is most often conceptualized in terms of IRB‐related topics, (2) when ‘ethical gray‐zone’ issues are mentioned, the focus is primarily on methodological transparency, data sharing/open science, and selecting the appropriate research design and statistical tests, and (3) materials tend to address the topic of research ethics in a single section or chapter, or in a single day or week of a course. Against this background, we provide three recommendations that our field can implement to provide more robust and thorough research ethics training for students and researchers in TESOL and Applied Linguistics: (1) expand our conceptualization of research ethics to include ethical gray‐zone issues, (2) be thorough and explicit in our discussion of ethical issues related to research decisions, and (3) incorporate research ethics as a recurring theme throughout textbooks and courses.
Digital twin‐driven online intelligent assessment of wind turbine gearbox
Authors: Zhou Yadong , Zhou Jianxing , Cui Quanwei , Wen Jianmin , Fei Xiang
Published: May 2024

Remaining useful fatigue life monitoring of wind turbine drivetrains is important. However, the implementation of real‐time monitoring often faces efficiency and accuracy challenges. In order to resolve this, this paper proposes a vibration‐based damage monitoring digital twin (VBDM‐DT) that enables the online intelligent evaluation of wind turbine gearboxes, using gear tooth surface durability as an example fatigue mode. The VBDM‐DT integrates a random wind load model, a high‐fidelity dynamics model, and a fatigue damage model. The random wind load model takes the wind speed from the supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) as input to estimate the input torque of the drivetrain in real time. Simultaneously, VBDM‐DT uses the vibration signals from the condition monitoring system (CMS) to intelligently calibrate the dynamics model, allowing it to be continuously adjusted and optimized in response to actual vibrations. The fatigue damage model takes the real‐time dynamic loads estimated by the high‐fidelity dynamic model as input to achieve real‐time fatigue damage monitoring of key components in the wind turbine gearbox. Applying the VBDM‐DT model to a 2 MW wind turbine gearbox, the results indicate that the model provides satisfactory accuracy in estimating input loads and good adaptability in intelligent calibration of the dynamic model. Based on this model, the fatigue life estimation for gears and bearings is more credible and reliable.
Multi‐dimensional parametric study for enhancing Brackish Water Reverse Osmosis membrane performance suited for desalination of low salinity feeds
Authors: Thummar Utpal G. , Amaliar Govind , Sutariya Bhaumik , Singh Puyam S.
Published: May 2024

Reverse osmosis (RO) effectively provides clean drinking water. Different RO membrane types are tailored to treat saline water feeds with varying characteristics. In the context of low brackish water feeds, the objective is to remove only a minimal excess of salinity through the membrane. Our study introduces a method of membrane post‐treatments capable of achieving controlled salt rejection while concurrently enhancing permeate flux, which is vital for achieving effective and energy‐efficient desalination of low brackish water. The post‐treatments were conducted on our in‐house‐developed membranes using aqueous solutions of N,N‐Dimethylformamide and glycerol for different drying times at the coupon level. The process was scaled up at the module level, allowing us to assess its potential for commercial application. At the coupon level, the permeate flux increased significantly from 3.7 ± 0.9 to 10.6 ± 0.2 L/m2·h·bar, while the salt rejection decreased from 95.6 ± 1% to 70.5 ± 1% when measured with a feed of 2,000 ppm NaCl concentration. At the module level, we observed a higher flux of 12.8 L/m2·h·bar, alongside a salt rejection of 55.5% with a similar feed. Varying post‐treatment parameters at the coupon level allowed us to attain the desired salt rejection and permeate flux values. Physical changes in both pristine and post‐treated membranes, including polymer swelling, were observed without chemical alterations, enhancing our understanding of the post‐treatment effect and its potential for broader commercial use.

Practitioner Points

Post‐treatment of RO membranes enhances flux.

Physical structuring through polymer swelling was observed with the chemical structure unaltered.

Post‐treatment of RO opens doors for broader energy‐efficient desalination application.
Duality defects in Dn-type Niemeier lattice CFTs
Authors: Grover Sachin , Hegde Subramanya , Jatkar Dileep P.
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We discuss the construction of duality defects in c = 24 meromorphic CFTs that correspond to Niemeier lattices. We will illustrate our constructions for the Dn-type lattices. We will identify non-anomalous ℤ2 symmetries of these theories, and we show that on orbifolding with respect to these symmetries, these theories map to each other. We investigate this map, and in the case of self-dual orbifolds, we provide the duality defect partition functions. We show that exchange automorphisms in some CFTs give rise to a new class of defect partition functions.
Baryogenesis through asymmetric reheating in the mirror twin Higgs
Authors: Alonso-Álvarez Gonzalo , Curtin David , Rasovic Andrija , Yuan Zhihan
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We present the νϕMTH, a Mirror Twin Higgs (MTH) model realizing asymmetric reheating, baryogenesis and twin-baryogenesis through the out-of-equilibrium decay of a right-handed neutrino without any hard $${\mathbb{Z}}_{2}$$ breaking. The MTH is the simplest Neutral Naturalness solution to the little hierarchy problem and predicts the existence of a twin dark sector related to the Standard Model (SM) by a $${\mathbb{Z}}_{2}$$ symmetry that is only softly broken by a higher twin Higgs vacuum expectation value. The asymmetric reheating cools the twin sector compared to the visible one, thus evading cosmological bounds on ∆Neff. The addition of (twin-)colored scalars allows for the generation of the visible baryon asymmetry and, by the virtue of the $${\mathbb{Z}}_{2}$$ symmetry, also results in the generation of a twin baryon asymmetry. We identify a unique scenario with top-philic couplings for the new scalars that can satisfy all cosmological, proton decay and LHC constraints; yield the observed SM baryon asymmetry; and generate a wide range of possible twin baryon DM fractions, from negligible to unity. The viable regime of the theory contains several hints as to the possible structure of the Twin Higgs UV completion. Our results motivate the search for the rich cosmological and astrophysical signatures of twin baryons, and atomic dark matter more generally, at cosmological, galactic and stellar scales.
Pseudo entropy and pseudo-Hermiticity in quantum field theories
Authors: Guo Wu-zhong , Jiang Yao-zong
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we explore the concept of pseudo Rényi entropy within the context of quantum field theories (QFTs). The transition matrix is constructed by applying operators situated in different regions to the vacuum state. Specifically, when the operators are positioned in the left and right Rindler wedges respectively, we discover that the logarithmic term of the pseudo Rényi entropy is necessarily real. In other cases, the result might be complex. We provide direct evaluations of specific examples within 2-dimensional conformal field theories (CFTs). Furthermore, we establish a connection between these findings and the pseudo-Hermitian condition. Our analysis reveals that the reality or complexity of the logarithmic term of pseudo Rényi entropy can be explained through this pseudo-Hermitian framework.

Additionally, we investigate the divergent term of the pseudo Rényi entropy. Interestingly, we observe a universal divergent term in the second pseudo Rényi entropy within 2-dimensional CFTs. This universal term is solely dependent on the conformal dimension of the operator under consideration. For n-th pseudo Rényi entropy (n ≥ 3), the divergent term is intricately related to the specific details of the underlying theory.
Characterization and functional evidence for Orf2 of Streptomyces sp. 139 as a novel dipeptidase E
Authors: Liu Zhe , Li Kemeng , Li Jialin , Zhuang Zhuochen , Guo Lianhong , Bai Liping
Published: May 2024

Aspartyl dipeptidase (dipeptidase E) can hydrolyze Asp-X dipeptides (where X is any amino acid), and the enzyme plays a key role in the degradation of peptides as nutrient sources. Dipeptidase E remains uncharacterized in Streptomyces. Orf2 from Streptomyces sp. 139 is located in the exopolysaccharide biosynthesis gene cluster, which may be a novel dipeptidase E with “S134-H170-D198” catalytic triad by sequence and structure comparison. Herein, recombinant Orf2 was expressed in E. coli and characterized dipeptidase E activity using the Asp-ρNA substrate. The optimal pH and temperature for Orf2 are 7.5 and 40 ℃; Vmax and Km of Orf2 are 0.0787 mM·min−1 and 1.709 mM, respectively. Orf2 exhibits significant degradation activities to Asp-Gly-Gly, Asp-Leu, Asp-His, and isoAsp-Leu and minimal activities to Asp-Pro and Asp-Ala. Orf2 contains a Ser-His-Asp catalytic triad characterized by point mutation. In addition, the Asp147 residue of Orf2 is also proven to be critical for the enzyme’s activity through molecular docking and point mutation. Transcriptome analysis reveals the upregulation of genes associated with ribosomes, amino acid biosynthesis, and aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis in the orf2 mutant strain. Compared with the orf2 mutant strain and WT, the yield of crude polysaccharide does not change significantly. However, crude polysaccharides from the orf2 mutant strain exhibit a wider range of molecular weight distribution. The results indicate that the Orf2 links nutrient stress to secondary metabolism as a novel dipeptidase E.

Key points

• A novel dipeptidase E with a Ser-His-Asp catalytic triad was characterized from Streptomyces sp. 139.

• Orf2 was involved in peptide metabolism both in vitro and in vivo.

• Orf2 linked nutrient stress to mycelia formation and secondary metabolism in Streptomyces.
Prediction of long-term visual outcome of idiopathic full-thickness macular hole surgery using optical coherence tomography parameters that estimate potential preoperative photoreceptor damage
Authors: Bajdik Beáta , Vajas Attila , Kemenes Gréta , Fodor Mariann , Surányi Éva , Takács Lili
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To identify optical coherence tomography (OCT) parameters that predict postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and are based on recent understanding of the pathomechanism of idiopathic full thickness macular hole (iFTMH) formation and closure.

Methods

A retrospective consecutive case series of patients who had macular hole (MH) surgery at our institution between 2016 and 2022 was performed. 32 eyes of 30 patients were selected with at least 12 months of follow-up, closed MH and good quality OCT at each visit. Univariate correlation analysis, multiple logistic regression with forward stepwise selection, and Akaike’s Information Criterion (AIC) were used to identify the best predictors for postoperative BCVA at 6 and 12 months (M), and final (≥ 12 M) visits, and a new OCT index was created. Abilities of best models/indices to predict < 0.30 logMAR (> 20/40) BCVA were compared to macular hole index (MHI) using the area under the receiver operating curve (AU-ROC) analysis.

Results

Statistical analysis revealed base diameter (B) (6 M), preoperative BCVA and B (12 M) and smaller ELM-GCL distance (A), and B (final visit) as predictors for postoperative BCVA. AU-ROC analysis indicated greatest AUC at 6 M for MHI and B (0.797, p = 0.004 and 0.836 p = 0.001, respectively) and for the new A/B index at 12 M and final visit (0.844, p = 0.002 and 0.913, p = 0.003, respectively).

Conclusion

Our study suggests that MHI and B can be useful predictors of short term BCVA while the new A/B index that incorporates OCT parameters indicating potential preoperative photoreceptor damage may be a good predictor for long term postoperative BCVA. Our findings support the theory that initial hole formation mechanisms and photoreceptor damage define visual prognosis.
Role played by MDSC in colitis-associated colorectal cancer and potential therapeutic strategies
Authors: Wang Kang , Wang Yun , Yin Kai
Published: May 2024

Colitis-associated colorectal cancer has been a hot topic in public health issues worldwide. Numerous studies have demonstrated the significance of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in the progression of this ailment, but the specific mechanism of their role in the transformation of inflammation to cancer is unclear, and potential therapies targeting MDSC are also unclear. This paper outlines the possible involvement of MDSC to the development of colitis-associated colorectal cancer. It also explores the immune and other relevant roles played by MDSC, and collates relevant targeted therapies against MDSC. In addition, current targeted therapies for colorectal cancer are analyzed and summarized.
Concept for evaluating results close to the participants’ limits of quantification in proficiency tests for elements in food
Authors: Kapp Timo , Hackenberg Rudolf
Published: May 2024

Proficiency testing (PT) in chemical analysis ideally provides participants with feedback on all aspects of laboratory performance. In the field of analysis of elements in food, analyte levels in test items are often close to the legal limits. Performance criteria such as those in Commission Regulation (EC) No. 333/2007 also refer to maximum values for limits of detection (LOD) and limits of quantification (LOQ), as well as to selectivity and control of contamination. Therefore, PTs with analyte levels in the range of LOD and LOQ are also very beneficial, as at these low levels, insufficient selectivity or contamination during sample preparation are more likely to affect the analytical results.

Since 2017, our unit has provided 7 PTs, each with at least one parameter (e.g. an element prone to contamination such as arsenic or mercury) with very low mass fractions. In these cases, the datasets showed a significant proportion of results reported as “< LOQ”, together with quantitative results as well.

If the “< LOQ”-values are predominant, calculation according to ISO 13528 is not feasible. Due to the wide range of the individual LOQs, the numerical use of the LOQs or a percentage of them is not appropriate. Therefore, we decided to sort the quantitative results and the “< LOQ” results numerically. We then determined the median and evaluated all quantitative results above the median as “false positive”, while all other results were evaluated as “true statement”. In this way, laboratories affected by contamination, for example, received appropriate feedback.
Improving wasp control by identifying likely causes of eradication failure
Authors: Howse M. W. F. , Reason A. , Haywood J. , Lester P. J.
Published: May 2024

Studying the efficacy of control methods is paramount to successful management of invasive pests and understanding why some colonies survive is important to improve management practices. Here, the bait Vespex® was used to control invasive wasps across 64 ha of forest in an invaded range near Hanmer Springs, New Zealand. Bait was applied across a standard 50 m by 300 m arrangement and made available for 3 days. Nest mortality rates after 19 days were 29.8%, although nearly all nests were affected with a median overall reduction in nest traffic of 96.5%. The results from logistic regression showed that, all else remaining equal, larger wasp nests, nests further from bait stations, and more isolated nests exhibited lower rates of mortality after baiting. Investigating the change in activity at surviving nests, the results from beta regression suggest that declines in nest traffic were less severe with increasing distance to the nearest bait, but more severe with increasing nest size. These results indicate that while smaller nests are at a higher risk of being killed by the bait, they may not encounter bait as regularly as larger nests. Bait uptake varied considerably across bait stations. Wasp nests were not randomly or uniformly distributed in space, and instead were aggregated across our treatment area, likely due to some aspects of environmental conditions. We suggest further research to be focused on developing an understanding of the drivers of wasp nest development and foraging behaviour, to produce a more flexible baiting procedure that will increase both baiting efficiency and efficacy.
InstructPatentGPT: training patent language models to follow instructions with human feedback
Authors: Lee Jieh-Sheng
Published: May 2024

In this research, patent prosecution is conceptualized as a system of reinforcement learning from human feedback. The objective of the system is to increase the likelihood for a language model to generate patent claims that have a higher chance of being granted. To showcase the controllability of the language model, the system learns from granted patents and pre-grant applications with different rewards. The status of “granted” and “pre-grant” are perceived as labeled human feedback implicitly. In addition, specific to patent drafting, the experiments in this research demonstrate the model’s capability to learn from adjusting claim length and inclusion of limiting terms for narrowing claim scope. As proof of concept, the experiments focus on claim ones only and the training data originates from a patent dataset tailored specifically for artificial intelligence. Although the available human feedback in patent prosecution are limited and the quality of generated patent text requires improvement, the experiments following the 3-stage reinforcement learning from human feedback have demonstrated that generative language models are capable of reflecting the human feedback or intent in patent prosecution. To enhance the usability of language models, the implementation in this research utilizes modern techniques that enable execution on a single consumer-grade GPU. The demonstrated proof of concept, which reduces hardware requirements, will prove valuable in the future as more human feedback in patent prosecution become available for broader use, either within patent offices or in the public domain.
An integrated model for criminal responsibility in action: How Swedish criminal law operates without an insanity defence
Authors: Bennet Tova
Published: May 2024

In nearly all criminal justice systems, a defendant’s severe mental disorder can trigger special rules that excuse or exempt the defendant. Swedish criminal law adopts an alternative approach that considers all defendants to be equal in terms of accountability, or capacity for responsibility, and lacks any rules that excuse or exempt a defendant with a severe mental disorder or disability. This paper presents the first comprehensive study of how Swedish criminal law functions without an insanity defence. The analysis focuses on the legal assessment of mens rea and offers observations regarding the Swedish model that are of particular relevance for discussions concerning the potential and pitfalls of an “integrated” model for criminal responsibility.
Just-in-Time crash prediction for mobile apps
Authors: Wimalasooriya Chathrie , Licorish Sherlock A. , da Costa Daniel Alencar , MacDonell Stephen G.
Published: May 2024

Just-In-Time (JIT) defect prediction aims to identify defects early, at commit time. Hence, developers can take precautions to avoid defects when the code changes are still fresh in their minds. However, the utility of JIT defect prediction has not been investigated in relation to crashes of mobile apps. We therefore conducted a multi-case study employing both quantitative and qualitative analysis. In the quantitative analysis, we used machine learning techniques for prediction. We collected 113 reliability-related metrics for about 30,000 commits from 14 Android apps and selected 14 important metrics for prediction. We found that both standard JIT metrics and static analysis warnings are important for JIT prediction of mobile app crashes. We further optimized prediction performance, comparing seven state-of-the-art defect prediction techniques with hyperparameter optimization. Our results showed that Random Forest is the best performing model with an AUC-ROC of 0.83. In our qualitative analysis, we manually analysed a sample of 642 commits and identified different types of changes that are common in crash-inducing commits. We explored whether different aspects of changes can be used as metrics in JIT models to improve prediction performance. We found these metrics improve the prediction performance significantly. Hence, we suggest considering static analysis warnings and Android-specific metrics to adapt standard JIT defect prediction models for a mobile context to predict crashes. Finally, we provide recommendations to bridge the gap between research and practice and point to opportunities for future research.
Mesoporous silica aerogels for sunflower oil refining and investigation of their adsorption performance
Authors: Soylu Tülay Merve , Özel Cem , Karakuzu Ikizler Burcu , Özarslan Ali Can , Terzioğlu Pınar , Elalmis Yeliz Basaran , Yücel Sevil
Published: May 2024

Involving a succession of oil refining stages for edible oil production, a notable constraint lies in the necessity to employ diverse adsorbents at various steps within these processes. This study investigates the synthesis of mesoporous silica aerogels from rice husk ash, comparing their efficacy in physical sunflower oil refining with earth clay (Bentonite) and commercial silica (Trisyl). Tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) impact during aging was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and N2 adsorption-desorption analyzer to examine alterations in the structure of silica aerogels. The surface areas of TEOS-doped silica aerogel (TSA) and non-TEOS-doped silica aerogel (NTSA) were 296.18 and 267.06 m²/g. Mesoporous silica aerogels were evaluated for their ability to reduce free fatty acids (FFA), peroxide value (PV), phosphorus, and color pigments in sunflower oil. TSA and NTSA demonstrated significant FFA removal, with TSA at 3 wt.% achieving the highest performance of 32.2%. TSA also effectively reduced PV and phosphorus compared to NTSA, Bentonite and Trisyl, exhibiting performance similar to Bentonite in the bleaching process. TEOS-doped silica aerogels have shown promise as adsorbents for impurity removal in sunflower oil and has emerged as the potential adsorbent that can comprehensively and effectively meet the requirements of many edible oil physical refining applications in a singular step.

Graphical Abstract
Development of recyclable bio-based epoxy/acrylate blends for liquid crystal display 3D printing
Authors: Tosto Claudio , Saitta Lorena , Latteri Alberta , Blanco Ignazio
Published: May 2024

Bio-based epoxy resins are widely utilized in various application fields such as adhesives, coatings, composites, and electrical components, offering comparable performance characteristics to conventional epoxy resins, including high strength, durability, and chemical resistance. The use of bio-based materials in 3D printing has been receiving increasing attention as a means of reducing the environmental impact of this technology, because most formulations available for stereolithography and digital light processing are generally non-renewable. This study aimed to explore the potential of blending a bio-based epoxy resin with a commercial daylight-curable resin at various msss percentages to enhance the thermomechanical properties of 3D-printed parts while adhering to the working principle of liquid crystal display (LCD) printers. The prepared formulations were initially characterized in terms of their thermo-mechanical properties both before and after post-treatments like photo- and thermal-curing. This procedure facilitated a comparison of the various blends based on their mechanical strength, glass transition temperature, and other pertinent properties. Upon identifying the optimal formulation, 3D-printed samples were produced using LCD printing technology. Calorimetric and morphological tests were then carried out to evaluate the thermal stability and microstructure of the printed parts. Overall, the findings of this study indicate that blending recyclable bio-based epoxy resins with commercial ones can lead to enhanced properties in additive manufactured parts. This approach has the potential to promote sustainability in 3D printing by reducing the consumption of non-renewable resources, while still meeting the standard performance required for numerous applications.
Clinical efficacy analysis of tip‑flexible suctioning ureteral access sheath combined with disposable flexible ureteroscope to treat 2–4 cm renal stones
Authors: Chen Hua , Xiao Jiansheng , Ge Jiaqi , Liu Tairong
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy of using a tip‑flexible suctioning ureteral access sheath (TFS-UAS) in combination with a traditional ureteral access sheath (T-UAS) and a disposable flexible ureteroscope (DFU) for treating large renal stones (2–4 cm in diameter).

Methods

We retrospectively collected clinical data from 238 patients who underwent retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) at Ganzhou People’s Hospital between January 2019 and October 2023. The study included 238 patients who met the inclusion criteria, with 125 in the observation group using TFS-UAS and 113 in the control group using T-UAS. We compared differences in the stone-free rate (SFR), complication rates, surgery duration, and average hospital stay between the two groups.

Results

All 238 surgeries were successfully completed. The stone-free rates for the observation group at the first and thirtieth day post-surgery were 87.20% and 95.20%, respectively, whereas for the control group, the rates were 73.45% and 85.84%, showing statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). The overall complication rates were 1.6% for the observation group and 14.16% for the control group, also statistically significant (P < 0.001). The surgical times for stone removal were (101.17 ± 25.64) minutes for the observation group and (86.23 ± 20.35) minutes for the control group, with significant differences (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Compared to T-UAS, combining TFS-UAS with DFU for treating renal stones of 2–4 cm diameter, although more time-consuming, resulted in higher SFRs and improved safety.
Natural Concepts and the Economics of Cognition and Communication
Authors: Gärdenfors Peter
Published: May 2024

This article takes a cognitive approach to natural concepts. The aim is to introduce criteria that are evaluated with respect to how they support the cognitive economy of humans when using concepts in reasoning and communicating with them. I first present the theory of conceptual spaces as a tool for expressing the criteria. Then I introduce the central idea that natural concepts correspond to convex regions of a conceptual space. I argue that this criterion has far-reaching consequences as regards natural concepts. Partly following earlier work, I present some other criteria that further delimit the class of natural concepts. One of these is coherence, which does not seem to have been discussed previously. Finally, I show that convexity and other criteria make it possible to ensure that people mean the same thing when they communicate using concepts. Apart from its philosophical interest, the analysis presented in the article will be relevant for tasks of conceptual engineering in artificial systems that work with concepts.
A vehicle firmware security vulnerability: an IVI exploitation
Authors: Costantino Gianpiero , De Vincenzi Marco , Matteucci Ilaria
Published: May 2024

In the last years, the increasing vehicular technology has led to a surge in cybersecurity attacks, particularly regarding connected vehicles and their vulnerable infotainment systems. This paper explores the vulnerabilities within an In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) system firmware, focusing on the Gen5W_L multimedia device utilized in Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles. Leveraging reverse engineering techniques, the study uncovers several security issues within the firmware, allowing for the creation and installation of custom firmware. The paper introduces Chimaera, a reverse engineering attack targeting the IVI system firmware, which exploits a vulnerability introduced by statically compiling the mbedtls library. After a reverse engineering analysis and injecting malicious assembly code directly in the IVI firmware, the attack enables the extraction of sensitive information from the firmware files like the cryptographic keys to install a customized firmware. The research shows that exploiting these vulnerabilities facilitates the installation of insecure firmware, granting attackers unauthorized access to vehicle functionalities. This includes the possibility to inject CAN bus messages, potentially compromising critical vehicle systems such as radio controls and safety features. The findings underscore the need for robust cybersecurity measures within automotive systems and highlight the significance of vulnerability assessment to mitigate security risks in connected vehicles.
Reiner Konflikt und reine Konkurrenz. Simmels Bestimmung des Streits und die Systemtheorie
Authors: Preuß Karlson
Published: May 2024

Simmel untersucht im Streitkapitel seiner „großen“ Soziologie zwei Sozialformen, Konflikt und Konkurrenz. Der Beitrag zeigt, dass Simmel bei der Bestimmung der Reinmerkmale dieser Formen zwei unterschiedliche Wege einschlägt. Während er den „reinen Konflikt“ sinndimensional bestimmt, nämlich als Sachkonflikt, der nicht durch subjektive Faktoren wie Persönlichkeit, Bestechung usw. verunreinigt wird, begreift er die „reine Konkurrenz“ formenrelational, indem er sie an Konkurrenzbeziehungen festmacht, die nicht von Konflikten überlagert werden. Die zwei Herangehensweisen führen ihn zu einem adäquaten Verständnis der reinen Konkurrenz und einem verfehlten Begriff des reinen Konflikts, was wiederum eine ungleiche Präsenz Simmels in den jeweiligen soziologischen Traditionslinien zur Folge hat. Die zeitgenössische Konkurrenzforschung hat in Simmels Überlegungen zum Streit ein solides Fundament gefunden. Dagegen haben sich Teile der Konfliktforschung von Simmel abgewandt, darunter die systemtheoretische Konfliktsoziologie in der Tradition Luhmanns. Es lassen sich jedoch Verbindungen zwischen den zwei soziologischen Traditionslinien herstellen.
The psychosocial health of sexual and gender minority people with anal and colorectal cancer: a mixed methods study
Authors: Franco-Rocha Oscar Y. , Trainum Katie , Wheldon Christopher W.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) cancer survivors have poorer psychosocial health than their heterosexual cisgender counterparts. Nevertheless, most research has focused on breast and prostate survivors. It is unknown how different gastrointestinal (GI) cancers affect the psychosocial well-being of SGM individuals. We (1) described the psychosocial health of SGM people with GI cancers and (2) identified differences in psychosocial health outcomes by cancer type.

Methods

We conducted a concurrent mixed-methods secondary analysis with identical samples (n = 295) using data from “OUT: The National Cancer Survey.” Likert-type and open-ended questions about demographics, satisfaction with care, social support, and access to mental health resources were included in the analysis. Poor mental health was the primary outcome. Quantitative (linear regression) and qualitative (thematic analysis) data were independently analyzed, then integrated through the narrative, weaving approach.

Results

Three concepts emerged after data integration, (1) positive and negative influences on the psychological well-being of the participants; (2) social adaptations with the participants’ friends, partners, and family members; and (3) additional factors affecting the psychosocial well-being during and after cancer, particularly interactions with providers, comorbidities, and treatment side effects.

Conclusion

Clinical characteristics, demographic factors, and culturally responsive care influenced the psychosocial health of SGM survivors of GI cancers.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

Participants developed their own coping strategies and advocated for the SGM community. Interventions promoting peer support and self-esteem are a priority for this population. Healthcare professional training should incorporate historical trauma awareness and assess the delivery of culturally responsive care.
Future teachers’ reflections on mathematical errors made in their teaching practice
Authors: Font Vicenç , Breda Adriana , Sala-Sebastià Gemma , Pino-Fan Luís R.
Published: May 2024

This study answers the following research questions: 1) What types of mathematical errors do future teachers identify when they reflect on their practice? and 2) Which levels of development of the didactic suitability assessment competence for the “errors” component can be inferred when they reflect on their practice? To answer these questions, we explain the Didactic Suitability Criteria construct and describe the associated training cycle structure in the theoretical and methodological framework sections. We followed a qualitative research methodology that mainly consists of thematic analysis. The study conducted allows finding inductive categories of types of mathematical errors, such as error in the task instructions, error of proposition, procedural error, error in the representation, error in the definition and error in the argument. It also enables establishing levels of development of the didactic suitability assessment competence of future teachers for the “errors” component. The main conclusion of this research is the importance of the context to decide what a mathematical error is. The need to further examine the notion of mathematical error in the training of future mathematics teachers is also stressed. Another conclusion is the development of a rubric that allows for more accurate and deeper reflections of future teachers on the errors made.
Recent Advances in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-ED)
Authors: Waller Glenn , Beard Jessica
Published: May 2024

Purpose of Review

Eating disorders require more effective therapies than are currently available. While cognitive behavioural therapy for eating disorders (CBT-ED) has the most evidence to support its effectiveness, it requires substantial improvement in order to enhance its reach and outcomes, and to reduce relapse rates. Recent years have seen a number of noteworthy developments in CBT-ED, which are summarised in this paper.

Recent Findings

The key advances identified here include: improvements in the efficiency and availability of CBT-ED; expansion of applicability to younger cases across durations of eating disorder; and new methodologies.

There have been important recent advances in the field of CBT-ED. However, it is important to stress that there remain gaps in our evidence base and clinical skills, and suggestions are made for future research and clinical directions.
Antibody–drug conjugates in the treatment of lymphoid neoplasms
Authors: Neumeister Peter , Prochazka Katharina Theresa
Published: May 2024

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are a new class of monoclonal antibodies with the characteritic to specifically target tumor cells and to deliver a cytotoxic drug directly to the target cell thereby minimising side effects and improving the therapeutic index. In recent years, many new ADCs have been approved and are established therapeutic tools in lymphoma treatment.
Isolated Perfused Hearts for Cardiovascular Research: An Old Dog with New Tricks
Authors: Yang Tianshuo , Liu Zirui , Shu Songren , Chen Zhice , Hua Xiumeng , Song Jiangping
Published: May 2024

In modern cardiovascular research, isolated perfused hearts have become cost-effective and highly reproducible tools to investigate the mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Since they were first introduced in the nineteenth century, isolated perfused hearts have been extensively used for testing novel therapies, elucidating cardiac metabolic and electrophysiological activities, and modeling CVDs, including ischemic heart disease, arrhythmias, and hyperacute rejection. In recent years, ex vivo heart perfusion (EVHP) has shown potential in cardiac transplantation by allowing prolonged preservation and reconditioning of donor hearts. In this review, we summarize the evolution of the isolated perfused heart technique and its applications in cardiovascular research to help researchers comprehensively understand the capabilities of isolated heart models and provide guidance to use them to investigate various CVDs.

Graphical Abstract
Geodiversity Assessment in the Midriff
Islands Region of the Gulf of California (Northwest Mexico)
Authors: Miros-Gómez Jorge Alberto , Canet Carles , Calmus Thierry
Published: May 2024

A concurrent qualitative-quantitative assessment of geodiversity was
carried out within the Midriff Islands, a priority region within the Gulf of
California that stands out for its geological, ecological, and cultural importance.
This study is carried out on the coast of central Sonora, where the Comcaac
indigenous community has lived for more than a thousand years imbuing their
territory with material and symbolic values. The objective of this study was to
highlight the elements of geodiversity and contribute to the management and
conservation strategies that are carried out in the area. The qualitative approach
consisted of detailed fieldwork and a descriptive-documentary assessment of the
geodiversity attributes of the study area, which led to the preparation of
geomorphological and geological maps. The quantitative approach consisted of the
elaboration of a geodiversity index map using an adapted methodology that considered
some sites of cultural value due to their relationship with abiotic natural elements
of geodiversity. As a result of both approaches, several localities and zones of
high to medium geodiversity were identified mainly located along the mountain ranges
and the coast. Coastal areas, although not having the highest geodiversity, could be
considered the most relevant in terms of geological heritage and geoconservation,
because they comprise a variety of rocky outcrops and extraordinary landforms with
scientific interest, as well as cultural and aesthetic values. In addition, the
concurrent assessment was favorable to recognize localities where geoconservation
and sustainable use strategies, such as geotourism, can be implemented.