bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A predatory mite as potential biological control agent of Bemisia tabaci on tomato plants
Authors: Cardoso André C. , Marcossi Ítalo , Fonseca Morgana M. , Kalile Milena O. , Francesco Leonardo S. , Pallini Angelo , Groot Thomas V. M. , Janssen Arne
Published: July 2024

Several natural enemies are known as predators of the whitefly Bemisia tabaci, which is one of the most invasive pests worldwide and has developed high resistance to pesticides. However, biological control of this pest on tomato is often difficult because the plant’s glandular trichomes release substances that are toxic to arthropods and hinder the foraging of natural enemies. Therefore, adaptation of natural enemies to this crop is one of the selection criteria for potential biocontrol agents. We collected predatory mites from wild and feral tomato plants and found the species Amblyseius herbicolus and A. tamatavensis. Whereas the latter is known to feed on B. tabaci eggs, we investigated the ability of A. herbicolus to develop and reproduce when feeding on this prey stage, and assessed whether both species can feed and develop on B. tabaci crawlers. To verify the adaptation of these predators to tomato, we assessed their ability to disperse on tomato plants and their establishment on clean tomato plants with pollen as an alternative food. Finally, we evaluated whether the predators were effective in controlling B. tabaci on tomato plants with different pollen dosages as alternative food. We show that both predators fed and reproduced on B. tabaci immatures. A. herbicolus established and dispersed better on tomato plants supplemented with cattail pollen than A. tamatavensis and only A. herbicolus was able to control B. tabaci in two population dynamics experiments. Our results suggest that A. herbicolus is better adapted to tomato than A. tamatavensis and may therefore be a promising biocontrol agent on tomato.
A review of the effect of fertilization on the wood properties of Pinus trees
Authors: Akello S. , du Toit B. , Balboni B. M. , Wessels C. B.
Published: July 2024

The use of intensive silviculture to increase forest productivity in commercial plantations will undoubtedly persist into the future. This review synthesizes and analyses studies that have investigated the influence of fertilization on density, microfibril angle (MFA), and modulus of elasticity (MOE) of different Pinus species under intensive management. It was found that in general, ring width or growth rate demonstrated a negative correlation with density, and a positive relationship with MFA. Also, the relationship between growth rate and density and MFA were age specific and often non-significant at the whole stem level. Earlywood and latewood were influenced differently by fertilization: Earlywood width and density increased while in latewood, width stayed constant but density decreased. This resulted in a decrease in within-ring heterogeneity of density and density-related properties. Since latewood generally contributed more to whole-ring density, the net effect was that whole-ring wood density of pines mostly decreased with fertilization. Given that fertilization often resulted in a decrease in wood density and an increase in MFA, MOE decreased with fertilization. Most fertilization-wood-property studies on Pinus involved nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers with differing quantity and ratios. Results suggest that nitrogen may cause the greatest change in wood growth and properties. An important question that was often unanswered in research, was whether the effect of specific fertilization treatments on wood properties were purely based on the influence of increased growth or whether there were direct influences not explained by growth. Also, despite potassium being an important elemental component of many fertilizers, relatively little work has been done to determine its effect on wood properties.
A preliminary investigation of the small rockfall triggering conditions along a road network in Slovenia
Authors: Šegina Ela , Jemec Auflič Mateja , Mikoš Matjaž , Bezak Nejc
Published: July 2024

Rockfalls are among the natural hazards that endanger infrastructure, cause major economic disruptions, and threaten human lives. These phenomena result from long-term geological processes such as tectonic rock deformation or weathering, but the actual rockfall itself occurs suddenly, usually without warning. The triggering mechanisms are complex and difficult to trace. In this study, we investigated the triggering mechanisms of more than 2100 small rockfalls that occurred in 2021 in Slovenia, Europe, along the 51,000 km long national road network. We analyzed their spatial and temporal characteristics, as well as the triggering mechanisms of their occurrence, based on different weather scenarios. Multiple data mining methods were used to investigate triggering conditions, and scenario analyses were used to understand the triggering mechanisms. Most small rockfalls in 2021 were recorded in winter and spring at a density of 1 rockfall per 10 km2. The results show that winter weather conditions have the greatest potential for triggering small rockfalls in Slovenia, both in terms of spatial extent and frequency of triggering weather conditions. The analysis showed that summer storms are an important but indeterminant factor for the occurrence of small rockfalls. Among the scenarios tested, the winter scenario, which includes a combination of antecedent precipitation, snowmelt, and freeze‒thaw cycles a few days before the event, was able to predict 72% of the events in the colder season.
Seismic response of irregular RC buildings designed for gravity and seismic loads
Authors: Blasi Gianni , Scarlino Andrea Santo , Chirivì Salvatore , Perrone Daniele , Aiello Maria Antonietta
Published: July 2024

Irregular reinforced concrete framed buildings are peculiar and their seismic response is difficult to predict using simplified approaches. The irregularity in structural configuration is characterized by cross-sectional area reduction of the columns along the height, in-elevation and in-plan irregular distribution of the masses, complex floor geometry or floor geometry variation along the height. This study analyses the seismic response of several four-storey buildings with different types of irregularities, namely in-elevation floor height and floor geometry variation. Additionally, responses of both seismically designed and gravity load designed structures are compared for each geometry considered. A numerical model accounting for non-linear flexural and shear response of the structure is developed, aimed at conducting non-linear incremental dynamic analyses. The results are discussed in terms of inter-storey drift, floor acceleration profiles, fragility functions and floor response spectra. A significant influence of the irregularity on floor accelerations and displacements was observed, as well as on the spectral acceleration at collapse, mainly caused by mass and stiffness variation along the height. On the other hand, no significant influence was detected on failure modes.
Role of imaging in third aortic valve implantation: TAV-in-TAV-in-SAV
Authors: Chen Mi , Michel Jonathan M. , Stähli Barbara E. , Tanner Felix C. , Kasel Albert Markus
Published: July 2024

Coronary obstruction remains a primary concern for redo transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) due to supra-annular leaflets. Hereby, we present two valve-in-valve-in-valve cases, initially incorporating a surgical valve implanted to clarify our concept that the surgical valve serves to safeguard against the coronary ostium obstruction.
Mechanistic and therapeutic perspectives of non-coding RNA-modulated apoptotic signaling in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Wu Qin , Liu Chunlei , Shu Xiangwen , Duan Lian
Published: July 2024

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a significant and vision-endangering complication associated with diabetes mellitus, constitutes a substantial portion of acquired instances of preventable blindness. The progression of DR appears to prominently feature the loss of retinal cells, encompassing neural retinal cells, pericytes, and endothelial cells. Therefore, mitigating the apoptosis of retinal cells in DR could potentially enhance the therapeutic approach for managing the condition by suppressing retinal vascular leakage. Recent advancements have highlighted the crucial regulatory roles played by non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in diverse biological processes. Recent advancements have highlighted that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), act as central regulators in a wide array of biogenesis and biological functions, exerting control over gene expression associated with histogenesis and cellular differentiation within ocular tissues. Abnormal expression and activity of ncRNAs has been linked to the regulation of diverse cellular functions such as apoptosis, and proliferation. This implies a potential involvement of ncRNAs in the development of DR. Notably, ncRNAs and apoptosis exhibit reciprocal regulatory interactions, jointly influencing the destiny of retinal cells. Consequently, a thorough investigation into the complex relationship between apoptosis and ncRNAs is crucial for developing effective therapeutic and preventative strategies for DR. This review provides a fundamental comprehension of the apoptotic signaling pathways associated with DR. It then delves into the mutual relationship between apoptosis and ncRNAs in the context of DR pathogenesis. This study advances our understanding of the pathophysiology of DR and paves the way for the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

Graphical Abstract
Online Group Psychotherapy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Andrews Katrina , Ross Dyann , Maroney Tenelle L.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

There is a need within counselling and psychotherapy to ensure their ability to respond to endemic presences such as the COVID-19 pandemic, by utilising rapid technological advances without compromising effectiveness. To do so, existing research about online group therapy must be built upon to provide a comprehensive understanding of the efficacious delivery of this therapy modality. Thus, a systematic review was conducted to collate what is currently known in the published and grey literature on online group therapy, using the PRISMA framework. Thirty-three articles were identified as including information regarding facilitating group therapy online. After appraising each article using appropriate quality appraisal tools, a thematic analysis was conducted on the papers, arriving at seven main themes summarising the main findings regarding online versus in-person groups, group planning, counselling micro skills, group processes, ethics, technology, and unique online therapy issues. There is a growing but incomplete body of knowledge that informs the group therapist regarding the ethical delivery of groups online. A more comprehensive review can enable group therapists to feel confident they are across best practice guidelines. Limitations and research implications are considered.
The Relationships Between Metacognitive Beliefs, Executive Functioning, and Psychological Distress in Early Adolescence
Authors: Belte Rebekah G. , De Regt Tamara , Kannis-Dymand Lee , Boyes Amanda , Parker Marcella , Hermens Daniel F.
Published: July 2024

Background

Increased endorsement of metacognitions and poorer executive functioning have been associated with increased adolescent psychological distress. However, it is unknown whether poorer executive functioning strengthens the metacognitions–psychological distress relationship.

Methods

This cross-sectional study investigated unique and interactive contributions of self-reported positive metacognitions (beliefs that repetitive thinking is beneficial), negative metacognitions (beliefs that repetitive thinking is uncontrollable) and an objective test of executive function on self-reported psychological distress in N = 85 Australian adolescents (49% female, 51% male) aged 12–14 years (M = 13.22, SD = 0.45).

Results

Results of the hierarchical regression revealed both positive and negative metacognitions significantly, positively, and strongly predicted psychological distress. Furthermore, poorer executive functioning significantly strengthened the negative metacognitions–psychological distress relationship. These findings indicate that adolescents who endorse beliefs that their repetitive thinking is uncontrollable, dangerous, or helpful are more likely to be psychologically distressed. Furthermore, findings indicate adolescents with poorer inhibition were particularly vulnerable to the impact of negative metacognitions (e.g., repetitive thinking is uncontrollable) on psychological distress. This vulnerability is likely because negative metacognitions are highly intrusive, rendering their activation difficult to ignore.

Conclusions

Overall, findings support the self-regulatory executive function model, indicating metacognitions and executive functioning influence adolescent psychological distress. These findings have practical implications for clinical interventions.
Microplastic loads in Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) feces—targeting a standardized protocol and first results from an alpine stream, the River Inn
Authors: Nopp-Mayr Ursula , Layendecker Sarah , Sittenthaler Marcia , Philipp Matthias , Kägi Ralf , Weinberger Irene
Published: July 2024

Microplastics (MP) are omnipresent in a wide range of environments, constituting a potential threat for aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. Effects in consumers range from physical injuries to pathological reactions. Due to potential bioaccumulation of MP, predators are of particular concern for MP induced health effects. The Eurasian otter is an apex predator in (semi-)aquatic habitats feeding primarily on fish. Furthermore, the species is classified as “near threatened” on the IUCN Red List. Thus, the Eurasian otter is of conservation concern and may serve as a bioindicator for MP pollution. Feces can be used to detect pollutants, including MP. Initial studies confirmed the presence of MP in otter feces (= spraints). However, as specific, validated protocols targeting at an efficient and standardized extraction of MP from otter spraints are missing, experimental results reported from different groups are challenging to compare. Therefore, we (i) present steps towards a standardized protocol for the extraction of MP from otter feces, (ii) give recommendations for field sample collection of otter spraints, and (iii) provide a user-friendly step-by-step workflow for MP extraction and analysis. Applying this framework to field samples from five study sites along the River Inn (n = 50), we detected MP of different sizes and shapes (ranging from microfibers to road abrasion and tire wear) in all otter spraint samples.
Egocentric Content and the Complex Subject
Authors: Skrzypulec Błażej
Published: July 2024

While it is commonly observed that visual experiences have an egocentric character, it is less clear how to properly characterize it. This manuscript presents a new argument in favor of a thesis that (a) visual experiences represent a subject-element, i.e., an element to which the perceived objects stand in egocentric relations, and (b) the subject-element is represented as a complex bodily structure. More specifically, it is argued that there are two plausible interpretations of directional perceptual qualities such as ‘being to the left’: (a) representing directional qualities consists in representing objects as having intrinsic properties, or (b) representing directional qualities consists in representing objects as related to parts of the bodily structure. Relying on this observation, it is shown that only the second option can explain the role of directional qualities in action selection based on visual experiences. Consequently, the most plausible interpretation of directional qualities is that, in representing objects as being to the left or right, visual experiences represent objects as being related to parts of the bodily structure.
The Decoherent Arrow of Time and the Entanglement Past Hypothesis
Authors: Al-Khalili Jim , Chen Eddy Keming
Published: July 2024

If an asymmetry in time does not arise from the fundamental dynamical laws of physics, it may be found in special boundary conditions. The argument normally goes that since thermodynamic entropy in the past is lower than in the future according to the Second Law of Thermodynamics, then tracing this back to the time around the Big Bang means the universe must have started off in a state of very low thermodynamic entropy: the Thermodynamic Past Hypothesis. In this paper, we consider another boundary condition that plays a similar role, but for the decoherent arrow of time, i.e. the subsystems of the universe are more mixed in the future than in the past. According to what we call the Entanglement Past Hypothesis, the initial quantum state of the universe had very low entanglement entropy. We clarify the content of the Entanglement Past Hypothesis, compare it with the Thermodynamic Past Hypothesis, and identify some challenges and open questions for future research.
Adopting a Framework for Investigating Mathematics Teachers’ Technology-integrated Classroom Teaching Practice: Structuring Features of Classroom Practice
Authors: Simsek Ali , Clark-Wilson Alison
Published: July 2024

In recent years, there has been a growing effort to deepen our understanding of the complexities and mechanisms involved in integrating technology into mathematics education. This pursuit has led to the emergence of various theoretical frameworks, among which the Structuring Features of Classroom Practice (SFCP) (Ruthven, 2009) stands out. This paper presents a thorough review of the SFCP framework and its fundamental components, with a particular emphasis on its utilisation in examining teachers’ domain-specific classroom practices involving digital technology. Drawing upon data from a recent multiple case study, this paper aims to illustrate the adoption and operationalisation of the SFCP in analysing how secondary mathematics teachers integrate dynamic digital tools into their practices as they teach the mathematical domain of geometric similarity. By contributing to the testing and refinement of the SFCP, this paper advances our comprehension of this innovative yet promising framework. Additionally, it provides a demonstration of its practical application and offers a critical reflection on its utility in exploring teachers’ everyday classroom practices involving technology for teaching specific mathematical concepts.
Cryopreservation of vegetative thalli of Ulva species
Authors: Simon Clara , Fort Antoine , Sulpice Ronan
Published: July 2024

Sea lettuce (Ulva) is a genus of green macroalgae present along all the coasts of the world's oceans. It represents about 100 species with diverse habitats. Inter- and intra-species natural variation is very large, both in terms of growth characteristics and biomass biochemical composition. As a result, Ulva biomass has a wide range of applications and strain selection can achieve significant increases in yield(s). Establishing solid, long term and cost-effective methodologies for the conservation of Ulva genetic diversity is then required to safeguard and reuse selected strains. Here, we report a cryopreservation-based protocol for the long-term preservation of foliose Ulva strains. Strains from seven different Ulva species were cryopreserved for 15 and/or 120 days in liquid nitrogen, and of the 3 replicates cryopreserved, at least one survived, allowing us to successfully recover all strains. On average, among all specimen cryo-preserved, 82% of them survived and grew post cryo-preservation.
Density and surface tension of liquid Al, V and their binary alloys measured by electromagnetic levitation
Authors: Reiplinger B. , Seimiya Y. , Brillo J. , Ozawa S.
Published: July 2024

Both density and surface tension were systematically investigated over a wide temperature and compositional range for the liquid Al–V alloy system. The thermophysical properties were measured in an electromagnetic levitation device. A linear decrease in surface tension and density with increasing temperature was observed for every alloy composition investigated. Additionally, a decrease in density and surface tension was observed for increasing aluminum content among the different probed samples. This decrease is, a strong deviation from an ideal mixing behavior which was experienced for both properties. Different models, including variants of the well-established Butler model, were employed to better describe the compositional dependence of density and surface tension in the liquid Al–V system. The advantages and disadvantages were discussed for each model describing the measured thermophysical property data. Strong similarities were observed when comparing the mixing behavior and segregation effects of the investigated Al–V system with already established works for the liquid Al–Ti system. The results suggest that both vanadium and titanium show similar mixing behavior when alloyed with aluminum.
Happiness in urban environments: what we know and don’t know yet
Authors: Samavati Sahar , Veenhoven Ruut
Published: July 2024

There is no consensus on what makes for a livable urban environment. This requires empirical assessment of the relationship between urban characteristics and the happiness of residents. We took stock of the available research findings, using the World Database of Happiness; 445 findings are considered, from 20 nations over the years 1975–2022. We considered 3 aspects of the urban environment, 1) objectively assessed characteristics, 2) subjective perception of urban characteristics and 3) satisfaction with urban characteristics. Urbanites tend to be happier in places characterized by the following objectively assessed features: a) access to local green/nature, b) access to cultural facilities and leisure amenities, c) access to healthcare, d) access to public goods such as access to sewage and water supply and e) access to public spaces. On the other hand, residents tend to be less happy the closer they live to f) shops, g) public transportation hubs and h) the city center. Subjectively perceived environmental characteristics that go with greater happiness are: i) amenities, j) public goods in vicinity k) playground and sport facilities, while l) perceived air pollution is negatively linked to happiness. Residents were found to be happier the more satisfied they are with m) connectivity and local transport, n) local recreation o) water quality and the, p) environment as-a-whole. Correlations with objectively assessed characteristics. with the urban environment are smaller than with subjective perceptions of the same and differ in direction for living close to q) shops and r) public transportation hubs. While objective closeness to these amenities relates negatively to happiness, subjectively perceived availability and satisfaction with these amenities relates positively to happiness. Most of the available findings are of a cross-sectional nature and do not inform us about cause and effect. This strand of research is still in its infancy. By lack of a sound evidence base, claims about livability of urban settings will remain a matter of subjective hunches and sales-talk.
Care and resentment. An essay on moral temporality
Authors: Wentzer Thomas Schwarz
Published: July 2024

Whereas caring is commonly perceived as a moral virtue or a socially beneficial ethical practice, resentment appears to represent its opposite. Advocates of care ethics have vehemently criticized the abstract and aloof nature of traditional ethical theories and argue that care ethics offers a perspective from which we may appreciate interpersonal sensitivity and responsiveness to individuals, per se. Following in the philosophical tradition of Nietzsche and Scheler, resentment—taken as the emotional state of lingering animosity towards individuals, combined with the inclination to withhold assistance and abstain from caring—is often identified as an unjustified and unethical disposition. The paper aims to challenge this perspective and support the moral and historical validity of resentment in specific situations. It thereby recalls a social historical dimension to the often merely physiologically and individually dominated discourse about aging. Drawing on Jean Améry’s seminal account, I suggest viewing resentment as an attitude that asserts the authority to reevaluate the historical situation and to challenge the primacy of immediate needs (the here-and-now of a person in need of care). From this perspective, resentment too displays sensitivity to individuals and their life stories, yet it invokes a sense of justice that exceeds the temporal framework of caring if restrained to bodily and physiological needs. To illustrate this argument, this paper recounts an incident in a nursing home in postwar Germany, in 1986.
Experts or Authorities? The Strange Case of the Presumed Epistemic Superiority of Artificial Intelligence Systems
Authors: Ferrario Andrea , Facchini Alessandro , Termine Alberto
Published: July 2024

The high predictive accuracy of contemporary machine learning-based AI systems has led some scholars to argue that, in certain cases, we should grant them epistemic expertise and authority over humans. This approach suggests that humans would have the epistemic obligation of relying on the predictions of a highly accurate AI system. Contrary to this view, in this work we claim that it is not possible to endow AI systems with a genuine account of epistemic expertise. In fact, relying on accounts of expertise and authority from virtue epistemology, we show that epistemic expertise requires a relation with understanding that AI systems do not satisfy and intellectual abilities that these systems do not manifest. Further, following the Distribution Cognition theory and adapting an account by Croce on the virtues of collective epistemic agents to the case of human-AI interactions we show that, if an AI system is successfully appropriated by a human agent, a hybrid epistemic agent emerges, which can become both an epistemic expert and an authority. Consequently, we claim that the aforementioned hybrid agent is the appropriate object of a discourse around trust in AI and the epistemic obligations that stem from its epistemic superiority.
Regional Multidimensional Attitudes Towards Immigration: Evidence from the European Social Survey Using Small Area Estimation
Authors: Moretti Angelo , Ahmed Anisa
Published: July 2024

The present article is the first empirical investigation of attitudes towards immigration in Europe via small area estimation providing reliable regional estimates across European regions. Four dimensions of regional attitudes are considered, i.e., restrictive attitudes towards specific groups, restrictive attitudes towards acquired criteria, threat, and restrictive attitudes towards ascribed criteria. We produce maps of these, as well as validation outputs, demonstrating that our estimates are reliable, hence, have a strong potential in informing policy makers. We show that, although there is a large between-country variation of these attitudes, there are also large spatial differences between-region in some countries. Overall, Swedish public attitudes tend to be quite homogeneous across regions, and located towards the positive side, whereas Eastern European countries tend to show negative attitudes across all the dimensions apart from the acquired criteria. However, in these countries, we can see larger spatial differences across regions, especially in the ascribed criteria and attitudes towards specific groups indicator. In general, the threat dimension does not show a large between-region variability, compared to the other three dimensions.
Measuring Wellbeing Across Culture and Context – are we Getting it Right? Evaluating the Variation in Wellbeing Conceptualisations Throughout the World
Authors: Sollis Kate , Biddle Nicholas , Maulana Herdiyan , Yap Mandy , Campbell Paul
Published: July 2024

Researchers, practitioners, and policy makers have been increasingly interested in measuring wellbeing over the last two decades. However, with many measurement tools and frameworks being replicated in contexts distinct from where they were developed, it raises the question as to whether we are measuring the right things. This study draws on data collected through a systematic review of participatory wellbeing frameworks to better understand how wellbeing conceptualisations differ based on country context throughout the world. This analysis is one of the first of its kind, enabling a deeper and more comprehensive insight into cross-cultural understandings of wellbeing. The findings indicate that while there is some degree of universality in how wellbeing is conceptualised in different country contexts, cross-cultural variation is also evident. These findings have important implications for wellbeing measurement throughout the world, indicating that researchers, practitioners, and policymakers should exercise some caution when utilising wellbeing measurement tools and frameworks that were developed in contexts distinct from the population of interest. Furthermore, this study highlights the value of participatory approaches in better understanding these nuanced conceptualisations of wellbeing within different population groups throughout the world. Having greater awareness of cross-cultural differences in wellbeing conceptualisations will help ensure that we are more closely measuring what matters to people.
Classifier-dependent feature selection via greedy methods
Authors: Camattari Fabiana , Guastavino Sabrina , Marchetti Francesco , Piana Michele , Perracchione Emma
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study is to introduce a new approach to feature ranking for classification tasks, called in what follows greedy feature selection. In statistical learning, feature selection is usually realized by means of methods that are independent of the classifier applied to perform the prediction using that reduced number of features. Instead, the greedy feature selection identifies the most important feature at each step and according to the selected classifier. The benefits of such scheme are investigated in terms of model capacity indicators, such as the Vapnik-Chervonenkis dimension or the kernel alignment. This theoretical study proves that the iterative greedy algorithm is able to construct classifiers whose complexity capacity grows at each step. The proposed method is then tested numerically on various datasets and compared to the state-of-the-art techniques. The results show that our iterative scheme is able to truly capture only a few relevant features, and may improve, especially for real and noisy data, the accuracy scores of other techniques. The greedy scheme is also applied to the challenging application of predicting geo-effective manifestations of the active Sun.
Locally sparse and robust partial least squares in scalar-on-function regression
Authors: Gurer Sude , Shang Han Lin , Mandal Abhijit , Beyaztas Ufuk
Published: July 2024

We present a novel approach for estimating a scalar-on-function regression model, leveraging a functional partial least squares methodology. Our proposed method involves computing the functional partial least squares components through sparse partial robust M regression, facilitating robust and locally sparse estimations of the regression coefficient function. This strategy delivers a robust decomposition for the functional predictor and regression coefficient functions. After the decomposition, model parameters are estimated using a weighted loss function, incorporating robustness through iterative reweighting of the partial least squares components. The robust decomposition feature of our proposed method enables the robust estimation of model parameters in the scalar-on-function regression model, ensuring reliable predictions in the presence of outliers and leverage points. Moreover, it accurately identifies zero and nonzero sub-regions where the slope function is estimated, even in the presence of outliers and leverage points. We assess our proposed method’s estimation and predictive performance through a series of Monte Carlo experiments and an empirical dataset—that is, data collected in relation to oriented strand board. Compared to existing methods our proposed method performs favorably. Notably, our robust procedure exhibits superior performance in the presence of outliers while maintaining competitiveness in their absence. Our method has been implemented in the package in "Image missing".
Strategic justice, conventions, and game theory: introduction to a Synthese topical collection
Authors: Moehler Michael , Thrasher John
Published: July 2024

Evolutionary, game-theoretic approaches to justice and the social contract have become increasingly popular in contemporary moral and political philosophy. (Vanderschraaf, Strategic justice: convention and problems of balancing divergent interests, Oxford University Press, 2019) theory of strategic justice represents the most recent contribution to this tradition and, in many ways, can be viewed as a culmination of it. This article discusses some of the central features of Vanderschraaf’s theory and relates them to the contributions in this collection. Some of the contributions directly address Vanderschraaf’s work, while others explore related topics in game theory, bargaining theory, formal philosophy, rationality, equality, justice, and the theory of conventions. This collection aims to bridge a gap between disjoint but closely related literature spanning a wide range of disciplines. The contributions allow readers to systematically engage with the topic of strategic justice, advance dialogue, and more easily follow this rich and expanding field of study.
A Note on Ising Network Analysis with Missing Data
Authors: Zhang Siliang , Chen Yunxiao
Published: July 2024

The Ising model has become a popular psychometric model for analyzing item response data. The statistical inference of the Ising model is typically carried out via a pseudo-likelihood, as the standard likelihood approach suffers from a high computational cost when there are many variables (i.e., items). Unfortunately, the presence of missing values can hinder the use of pseudo-likelihood, and a listwise deletion approach for missing data treatment may introduce a substantial bias into the estimation and sometimes yield misleading interpretations. This paper proposes a conditional Bayesian framework for Ising network analysis with missing data, which integrates a pseudo-likelihood approach with iterative data imputation. An asymptotic theory is established for the method. Furthermore, a computationally efficient Pólya–Gamma data augmentation procedure is proposed to streamline the sampling of model parameters. The method’s performance is shown through simulations and a real-world application to data on major depressive and generalized anxiety disorders from the National Epidemiological Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC).
Assessment of direction changes in waste electrical and electronic equipment management in Poland
Authors: Przydatek Grzegorz , Kanownik Włodzimierz
Published: July 2024

A growing amount of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) indicates the need to verify the effectiveness of its management both nationally and globally. An analysis of the WEEE economy in Poland conducted over 5 years confirmed a 16.64% increase in the mass of collected equipment. The maximum annual mass of electrical and electronic equipment introduced to the market during this period was 607,240 Mg, with the average value exceeding 500,000 Mg. The WEEE category with the largest collected mass was waste code 20 01 36, which exceeded 235,000 Mg, whilst the highest waste weight accumulation rate of 45.98 kg per capita was recorded in one of the smallest voivodeships in Poland. This result showed the diversity of WEEE accumulation on a national scale. Overall, a noticeable increase in the WEEE accumulation rate has occurred as Poland’s gross domestic product has increased, despite a decreasing population. An analysis based on the waste accumulation indicators, including socioeconomic factors, confirmed the need to develop forms of WEEE recovery and recycling to transition to a circular economy and promote the synergy of activities amongst all players in WEEE management.
Numerical simulation of cone penetration test by using CFD–DEM coupled analysis
Authors: Ge Ying , Zhou Annan , Nazem Majid , Deng Yongfeng
Published: July 2024

Precise stratigraphic characterization and assessment of soil parameters are essential for agricultural and geotechnical engineering. The cone penetration test (CPT) has become one of the most extensively used techniques for soil site assessment, because of its reproducibility, robustness, accuracy, and simplicity. The existing DEM (discrete element method) simulations on CPT are only applicable to dry soil, which cannot consider fluid phase (i.e., pore water) and its interaction with the soil particles. The combined DEM and CFD (computational fluid dynamics) approach is developed to model CPT testing on saturated soils in this study. Several sets of CPT simulations at various penetration rates have been performed by using CFD–DEM coupled analysis. The variation of penetration velocity leads to different magnitudes of fluid force, and the variation in fluid force, in turn, affects the CPT measurement of soil’s characteristics. Furthermore, the study extends beyond the properties of the soil itself to explore the complex interplay among soil particles, the surrounding fluid environment, and the penetrometer. The cumulative interactions among these elements highlight the intricate nature of CPT and underline the importance of comprehensive computational models in enhancing our understanding of these dynamics.
V-DAFT: visual technique for texture image defect recognition with denoising autoencoder and fourier transform
Authors: Si Jongwook , Kim Sungyoung
Published: July 2024

Texture is the surface qualities and visual attributes of an object, determined by the arrangement, size, shape, density, and proportion of its fundamental components. In the manufacturing industry, products typically have uniform textures, allowing for automated visual inspections of the product surface to recognize defects. During this process, texture defect recognition techniques can be employed. In this paper, we propose a method that combines a convolutional autoencoder architecture with Fourier transform analysis. We employ a normal reconstructed template as defined in this study. Despite its simple structure and rapid training and inference capabilities, it offers recognition performance comparable to state-of-the-art methods. Fourier transform is a powerful tool for analyzing the frequency domain of images and signals, which is essential for effective defect recognition as texture defects often exhibit characteristic changes in specific frequency ranges. The experiment evaluates the recognition performance using the AUC metric, with the proposed method showing a score of 93.7%. To compare with existing approaches, we present experimental results from previous research, an ablation study of the proposed method, and results based on the high-pass filter used in the Fourier mask.
Human ADA2 Deficiency: Ten Years Later
Authors: Wouters Marjon , Ehlers Lisa , Dzhus Mariia , Kienapfel Verena , Bucciol Giorgia , Delafontaine Selket , Hombrouck Anneleen , Pillay Bethany , Moens Leen , Meyts Isabelle
Published: July 2024

Purpose of Review

In this review, an update is provided on the current knowledge and pending questions about human adenosine deaminase type 2 deficiency. Patients have vasculitis, immunodeficiency and some have bone marrow failure. Although the condition was described ten years ago, the pathophysiology is incompletely understood

Recent Findings

Endothelial instability due to increased proinflammatory macrophage development is key to the pathophysiology. However, the physiological role of ADA2 is a topic of debate as it is hypothesized that ADA2 fulfils an intracellular role. Increasing our knowledge is urgently needed to design better treatments for the bone marrow failure. Indeed, TNFi treatment has been successful in treating DADA2, except for the bone marrow failure.

Major advances have been made in our understanding of DADA2. More research is needed into the physiological role of ADA2
Computational fluid dynamics of flow over a cylindrical tube for steady and transient flow conditions
Authors: Singh Rajwinder , Singh Jashanpreet , Kumar Rahul , Gupta Manish
Published: July 2024

The primary objective of this numerical study is to analyse the 2D flow across a circular cylindrical tube under various laminar as well as turbulent flow regimes. In this study, the implicit finite volume scheme was employed to compute incompressible flow with time precision using convective flux discretization schemes of the second order. The computational results were validated by comparing the simulation results with empirical data of mean surface pressure, wake characteristics in both constant and transient flow regimes, and the Strouhal frequency associated with vortex scattering. In addition, the present simulation model adequately captures the intricate 2D flow structure of the cylinder wake.
Analyzing the correlation between low proportion of hobnail features in papillary thyroid carcinoma and clinical aggressiveness risk
Authors: Liu Wen-Shun , Duan Yan-Ting , Ru Guo-Qing , Chen Wan-Yuan , Chen Yuan , Lv Tian , Liang Ju-Yong , Zheng Guo-Wan , Xu Jia-Jie
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Hobnail features may enhance the clinical aggressiveness of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). However, whether a low proportion (<30%) of these features contributes to increased PTC aggressiveness remains unclear. This study investigated whether PTC cases with a low proportion hobnail features (<30%) exhibit clinical invasiveness and pathological features of aggressiveness.

Methods

Pathological specimens from patients with postoperatively diagnosed PTC were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 29 PTC cases with a low proportion of hobnail features (<30%) were compared with 173 consecutive classical PTC (cPTC) cases. Data regarding age at presentation, sex, tumor size, number of tumors, and histological characteristics were obtained by reviewing electronic medical records. Postoperative information was obtained during follow-up visits and telephone interviews.

Results

Twenty-nine patients with PTC with a low proportion of hobnail features (<30%) were identified, exhibiting a median age of 34 years. At a median follow-up of 31 (IQR, 23–37) months, two patients had recurrent disease in the PTC with a low proportion of hobnail features (<30%) group, whereas there was no recurrence in the cPTC group. No distant metastasis and postoperative mortality were observed in either group. Compared with the cPTC group, patients with PTC and a low proportion of hobnail features exhibited larger tumor volumes and higher susceptibility to capsular invasion and lymph node metastasis. Tumor size and hobnail features emerged as independent risk factors for lymph node metastasis.

Conclusion

PTC with a low proportion hobnail features (<30%) and larger tumor volumes are associated with the occurrence of lymph node metastasis. A low proportion of hobnail features (<30%) in PTC may heighten invasiveness, elevating the risk of recurrence.
High-intensity Focused Ultrasound-A New Choice to Conduct Pulmonary Artery Denervation
Authors: Xie Yonghui , Yao Taoyue , Zhu Xiaogang , Yang Fan , Fan Haoqin , Cao Shirui , Chen Huaiyang , Liao Manzhen , Xia Yuanxi , Liu Jinqiao , Xiao Zhenghui , Yang Zhou , Xiao Yunbin
Published: July 2024

This research aimed to explore whether high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) could conduct pulmonary artery denervation (PADN). HIFU was performed in pulmonary arteries of 6 normotensive rabbits at dose of 250W, 6 times for each rabbit, and an additional 6 rabbits served as controls. Then ATEPH was induced in both groups by intravenous infusion of autogeneic thrombus. Hemodynamics and ultrasonography parameters were measured by right heart catheter and echocardiography pre- and post-establishment of ATEPH models in both groups. Histological analysis and immunohistochemistry of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) were also performed. After PADN procedures, 5 rabbits were successfully conducted PADN, of which ablation zone was also observed in right auricle or right lung in 4 rabbits. Ablation zone was detected only in right lung in 1 rabbit. Compared with control group, milder right heart hemodynamic changes were found in PADN group, accompanied by improved ultrasound parameters in PADN group. HIFU can acutly damage SNs around pulmonary artery successfully, which may be a new choice to conduct PADN. However, the accuracy of HIFU with PADN needs to be improved.

Graphical Abstract
Multiple intraductal papillary neoplasms of bile duct diagnosed based on endoscopic ultrasonography and peroral cholangioscopy findings
Authors: Onoe Masaki , Fukuba Nobuhiko , Kodama Yasuhide , Oka Akihiko , Kawashima Kousaku , Shibagaki Kotaro , Ishimura Norihisa , Kushiyama Yoshinori , Uchida Yasushi , Furukawa Toru , Ishihara Shunji
Published: July 2024

A man in his 30s was referred to our department for evaluation of bile duct stricture and removal of an intrahepatic bile duct stone. Five years before his presentation, he underwent left hepatectomy for a giant hepatic hemangioma. There were no abnormalities in blood biochemical tests. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography showed one 5 mm oval defect in region B6 and two 8 mm semicircular defects in the hilar bile duct. Endoscopic ultrasound revealed a 3.5 mm hypoechoic focal raised lesion in the hilar bile duct. Oral cholangioscopy revealed his two lesions in the hilar bile duct as white papillary elevations with mucus production. The pathological diagnosis of intraductal papillary neoplasm was determined (low-grade dysplasia, type 1, gastric type). After 1 and a half years, no expansion of the bile duct lesion was observed. Initially, it was thought to be a benign stenosis after liver resection, but based on the results of endoscopic ultrasound, we suspected a tumorous lesion, and we were able to make an accurate diagnosis, including histological type, using transoral cholangioscopy.