bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Similar root and stubble biomass carbon in grass–clover leys irrespective of yield, species composition, sward age, and fertilization
Authors: Jensen Johannes L. , Giannini‐Kurina Franca , Eriksen Jørgen
Published: June 2024

Background

Crop‐ and site‐specific quantification of non‐harvestable aboveground residues and root biomass is essential for predicting management‐induced changes in soil C storage.

Aims

The aim of this study was to quantify stubble and root biomass C from productive grass–clover leys used for cutting as affected by fertilization and sward age.

Methods

Based on an organic long‐term dairy crop rotations experiment with 4 years of grass–clover in a six‐course rotation, we examined the effects of fertilization (unfertilized and 300 kg total‐N ha−1 in cattle slurry) and sward age (1–4‐year‐old) on herbage yield and composition, stubble biomass, and composition and root biomass of grass–clover ley.

Results

Ley duration and fertilization altered plant community composition and aboveground productivity but did not affect stubble and root biomass C.

Conclusions

The results question the use of yield‐dependent allometric functions for grass–clover ley used in simulation models and life cycle assessments for C accounting in agricultural systems. For predictions of soil C changes, we recommend the use of a fixed stubble‐derived C input from grass–clover ley regardless of sward age and fertilization‐induced differences in species composition, and herbage yield. Likewise, a fixed root‐derived C input for 1‐year‐old grass–clover, irrespective of fertilization, may be implemented. However, the contribution of continuous rhizodeposition and fine root turnover to root‐derived C input need to be accounted for.
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy with Instillation and Dwell Time for Pharyngocutaneous Fistula
Authors: Fujisawa Kou , Miyamoto Shimpei , Saito Yuki , Okazaki Mutsumi
Published: June 2024

Pharyngocutaneous fistula is a critical complication of head and neck cancer reconstruction and it is often difficult to manage. We herein report two cases of pharyngocutaneous fistulas that developed after oropharyngeal reconstruction and were successfully treated with negative pressure wound therapy with instillation and dwell time (NPWTi‐d), an advanced form of traditional NPWT. NPWTi‐d may be a useful nonsurgical treatment for pharyngocutaneous fistula. Laryngoscope, 134:4573–4576, 2024
A multi‐model likelihood analysis of unprecedented extreme rainfall along the east coast of Australia
Authors: Irving Damien B. , Risbey James S. , Squire Dougal T. , Matear Richard , Tozer Carly , Monselesan Didier P. , Ramesh Nandini , Reddy P. Jyoteeshkumar , Freund Mandy
Published: June 2024

A large stretch of the east coast of Australia experienced unprecedented rainfall and flooding over a two‐week period in early 2022. It is difficult to reliably estimate the likelihood of such a rare event from the relatively short observational record, so an alternative is to use data from an ensemble prediction system (e.g., a seasonal or decadal forecast system) to obtain a much larger sample of simulated weather events. This so‐called ‘UNSEEN’ method has been successfully applied in several scientific studies, but those studies typically rely on a single prediction system. In this study, we use data from the Decadal Climate Prediction Project to explore the model uncertainty associated with the UNSEEN method by assessing 10 different hindcast ensembles. Using the 15‐day rainfall total averaged over the river catchments impacted by the 2022 east coast event, we find that the models produce a wide range of likelihood estimates. Even after excluding a number of models that fail basic fidelity tests, estimates of the event return period ranged from 320 to 1814 years. The vast majority of models suggested the event is rarer than a standard extreme value assessment of the observational record (297 years). Such large model uncertainty suggests that multi‐model analysis should become part of the standard UNSEEN procedure.
Infinitely many solutions for linearly coupled Schrödinger systems in ℝ3
Authors: Wang Lushun , Zeng Dehua
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we consider the following linearly coupled nonlinear Schrödinger system:

where
, and
are radial, positive, and continuous and satisfying that

When
and
satisfy some weak power decay condition at infinity; we show that problem
has infinitely many nonradial positive solutions by using the Lyapunov–Schmidt reduction method.
Outcomes of Near‐Total and Subtotal Resection of Sporadic Vestibular Schwannoma: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Kocharyan Armine , Daher Ghazal S. , Curry Steven D. , Klimara Miles J. , Farrokhian Nathan , Coleman Sarah , Oleson Jacob , Manzoor Nauman F. , Carlson Matthew L.
Published: June 2024

Objective

To evaluate tumor control and facial nerve outcomes after gross‐total (GTR), near‐total (NTR), and subtotal resection (STR) of sporadic vestibular schwannomas (VS).

Data Sources

PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched in August 2021 through inception following PRISMA guidelines.

Review Methods

English language articles reporting tumor control and facial nerve outcomes of adults (≥18 years) with NTR and STR of VS were evaluated. Study characteristics, demographics data, tumor characteristics, type of surgical intervention, and outcome measures on tumor control and facial nerve function were collected. Pooled relative risk (RR) estimates for tumor recurrence and facial nerve outcomes were calculated and stratified by extent of resection.

Results

From an initial search of 2504 articles, 48 studies were included in the analysis. When comparing 1108 patients who underwent NTR to 3349 patients with GTR, the pooled RR of recurrence in the NTR cohort was 2.94 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.65‐5.24, P = .0002). When comparing 1016 patients who underwent STR to 6171 patients with GTR, the pooled RR of recurrence in the STR cohort was 11.50 (95% CI 6.64‐19.92, P < .0001). Estimates for risk of tumor regrowth for less‐than‐complete resection are presented. There was no elevated risk of adverse facial nerve outcome (defined as House‐Brackmann grade III and above) in each category of extent of resection compared to GTR.

Conclusion

Extent of resection predicts risk of tumor recurrence/regrowth following microsurgical resection. Favorable facial nerve outcome should be weighed against the increased risk of regrowth and the potential need for further treatment.
Thermal buckling analysis of composite doubly‐curved shells with viscoelastic core
Authors: Zhai Yanchun , Chang Lirong
Published: June 2024

Composite sandwich double‐curved shells (CSDCS) have been extensively employed in the engineering domain of variable temperature environments; consequently, it becomes very significant and essential to present the thermal buckling characteristics of CSDCS to supply some valuable numerical results. The no‐linear strain–displacement relationship due to temperature variation has been taken into consideration based on the Von‐Karman non‐linear strain theory, and Hamilton's principle is adapted to derive the buckling differential equations of the CSDCS. The Navier method is employed to solve the eigenvalue problem for obtaining the critical buckling temperature. Finally, through studying the variation rule of thermal buckling temperature (CBT), several interesting findings on thermal buckling of the CSDCS are shown, as follows: As the h3/h1 rises, the CBTs of CSDCS first decrease then increase. With the increase of radius value, the CBTs of spherical shells decline, the CBTs of models (1,1) and (2,2) of hyperbolic paraboloidal shells are essentially unchanged, but the ones of models (1,2) and (2,1) decrease. As the h2 increases, the CBT progressively grows after the initial reduction. With the increase in aspect ratio, the CBTs for modes (1,1) and (2,1) of CSDCS gradually increase, and the ones of modes (1,2) and (2,2) shows an increase after an initial decrease. The CBTs of CSDCS gradually increase as the shear module of damping layer increases.

Highlights

Thermal buckling of composite doubly‐curved sandwich shells was studied.

A solution was proposed to derive the buckling differential equations.

The change rules of critical buckling temperature were obtained.
Mechanically robust, corrosion and impact resistance polyimide nanofiber/epoxy composite by mechanochemical fabrication
Authors: Zhao Kangbo , Cai Rui , Guo Shuang , Yuan Haochen , Fu Yuxin , Araby Sherif , Meng Qingshi
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to explore the application of a mechanochemical method for effectively integrating polyimide nanofibers, which are widely recognized for their outstanding thermal and mechanical properties, into an epoxy resin matrix. The researchers observed an 87.5% reduction in the diameter of polyimide nanofibers after mechanical treatment. The dispersion, compatibility, and interface between the nanofibers and epoxy matrix were analyzed using molecular dynamics simulations and scanning electron microscopy. The addition of polyimide nanofibers significantly increased the binding energy of the composite, resulting in a 52.8% improvement. Moreover, compared to pure epoxy resin, the inclusion of modified polyimide nanofibers led to a 21.9% increase in tensile strength and an 18.8% increase in impact strength. The PI/epoxy composite also exhibited a 15.6% increase in tensile strength and a 16.4% increase in impact strength. Additionally, electrochemical corrosion analysis showed that the PI/epoxy composite had excellent corrosion resistance. In conclusion, due to the exceptional mechanical properties and strong interfacial adhesion of polyimide nanofibers, the PI/epoxy resin composite demonstrated significant overall performance improvement compared to pure epoxy resin.

Highlights

Mechanochemical method to disperse polyimide fiber, shorter and finer fibers were obtained

Improve performance by adding small amounts

Microscopic analysis of composites by Materials Studio, PIENFs efficiently improved the interaction on the phase interface

Experiments have verified that PIENFs could make the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance
π‐Conjugated polyfluorenes with o‐phenylenediamine unit: Synthesis, optical and electrochemical properties, charge transfer complexation, and DNA sensing
Authors: Tomita Masahiro , Yamaguchi Isao , Wang Aohan
Published: June 2024

π‐Conjugated polyfluorenes (PPs) comprising 2,3‐diaminobenzene‐1,4‐diyl (unit A) and 9,9‐dihexylfluorene‐2,7‐diyl (polymer‐1) or 9,9‐bis(6‐N,N,N,‐trimethylammoniumhexyl)fluorene‐2,7‐diyl (unit B) (polymer‐2) units were synthesized using Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling polycondensation. To compare the chemical properties and functionality of polymer‐2, a water‐soluble PP comprising benzene‐1,4‐diyl and unit B (polymer‐3) was synthesized. Polymer‐1 exhibited solvatochromism: the photoluminescence (PL) peak of the polymer in solutions shifted to a longer wavelength with an increase in the dielectric constants of solvents. Polymer‐1 formed charge transfer (CT) complexes with organic electron acceptors. The CT complexation behavior was systematically elucidated by the PL measurements using Stern–Volmer and Benesi–Hildebrand methods. Water‐soluble polymer‐2 could be used as a sensor for the chain length of telomere DNA by monitoring the changes in its PL intensity upon the addition of the analyte. The DNA sensing performance of polymer‐2 surpassed that of polymer‐3, attributed to the presence of unit A in polymer‐2. This unit brought polymer‐2 closer to DNA through hydrogen bonding between the amino group of polymer‐2 and nucleic acids in DNA. This interaction facilitated the occurrence of CT from the polymer backbone to DNA.
Chemical composition analysis of Qingyan dropping pills using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Shu Lexin , Qiu Huixin , He Yufan , Zhang Shumin , Qian Jun , Liu Sitong , Kou Xiaodi , Zhao Qiduo , Li Yubo
Published: June 2024

Rationale

This study developed a method for the rapid classification and identification of the chemical composition of Qingyan dropping pills (QDP) to provide the theoretical basis and data foundation for further in‐depth research on the pharmacological substance basis of the formula and the selection of quality control indexes.

Methods

Ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS) and data postprocessing technology were used to analyze the chemical composition of QDP. The fragmentation information on possible characteristic fragments and related neutral losses was summarized based on the literature and was compared with the MS data obtained from the assay, and thus a rapid classification and identification of chemical components in QDP could be achieved.

Results

A total of 73 compounds were identified, namely 24 flavonoids, 14 terpenoids, 30 organic acids and their esters, 3 alkaloids, and 2 phenylpropanoids.

Conclusions

In this study, UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS and data postprocessing technology were used to realize the rapid classification and identification of the chemical constituents of QDP, which provided a comprehensive, efficient, and fast qualitative analysis method, a basis for further quality control and safe medication of QDP.
A haptic guidance system for simulated catheter navigation with different kinaesthetic feedback profiles
Authors: Abbasi‐Hashemi Taha , Janabi‐Sharifi Farrokh , Cheema Asim N. , Zareinia Kourosh
Published: June 2024

Background

This paper proposes a haptic guidance system to improve catheter navigation within a simulated environment.

Methods

Three force profiles were constructed to evaluate the system: collision prevention; centreline navigation; and a novel force profile of reinforcement learning (RL). All force profiles were evaluated from the left common iliac to the right atrium.

Results

Our findings show that providing haptic feedback improved surgical safety compared to visual‐only feedback. If staying inside the vasculature is the priority, RL provides the safest option. It is also shown that the performance of each force profile varies in different anatomical regions.

Conclusion

The implications of these findings are significant, as they hold the potential to improve how and when haptic feedback is applied for cardiovascular intervention.
Achieving High Operating‐Temperature Self‐powered X‐Ray Detection in Multilayered Hybrid Perovskites through Arylamine Intercalation
Authors: Li Junlin , Zhu Tingting , Ye Huang , Guan Qianwen , You Shihai , Li Ruiqing , Geng Yaru , Luo Junhua
Published: June 2024

Polar metal halide hybrid perovskites (PHPs) that exhibit outstanding bulk photovoltaic effect (BPVE), excellent semiconductor features, and strong radiation absorption ability, have shown prominent advantages in highly sensitive direct X‐ray detection. However, it is still a challenge to explore PHPs with high BPVE temperature ranges, answering the demand of developing thermally stable passive X‐ray detection. Herein, by intercalating arylamine into lead tribromide and inducing order‐disorder phase transition, a 2D multilayered PHPs (BZA)2(MA)Pb2Br7 (BZPB, BZA = benzylamine, MA = methylamine) is synthesized. BZPB crystallizes in a polar space group Aea2 at a low‐temperature phase and demonstrates a significant open‐circuit of 0.3 V deriving from BPVE under X‐ray irradiation. Meanwhile, the strong X‐ray absorption coefficient and outstanding carrier transport capability of the bilayered lead halide framework associated with the polar BPVE give BZPB excellent X‐ray detection abilities. At 0 V bias, the impressive sensitivity of BZPB is 98 µC Gy−1 cm−2. Importantly, the introduction of the rigid BZA ring increases the energy barrier of phase transition and thus dramatically enhances the X‐ray detection operating temperature of BZPB up to 409 K without significant performance degradation. This work strongly reveals the great potential of rational design of metal halide hybrid perovskites for X‐ray detection applications.
Enhancing Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation on WO3 via Electrochromic Modulation: Universal Effects and Mechanistic Insights
Authors: Li Kangqiang , Yin Yefeng , Diao Peng
Published: June 2024

Although WO3 exhibits both electrochromic and photoelectrochemical (PEC) properties, there is no research conducted to investigate the correlation between them. The study herein reports the electrochromic enhancement of PEC activity on WO3. The electrochromic WO3 (e‐WO3) exhibits a significantly enhanced activity for PEC water oxidation compared to raw WO3 (r‐WO3), with a limiting photocurrent density three times that of r‐WO3. The electrochromic enhancement of PEC activity is universal and independent of the type of cations inserted during electrochromism. Decoloring reduces the PEC activity but a simple re‐coloring restores the activity to its maximum value. Electrochromism induces large amounts of oxygen vacancies and surface states, the former improving the electron density of WO3 and the latter facilitating the hole transfer across e‐WO3/electrolyte interface. It is proved that the electrochromic enhancement effect is due to the significantly improved electron–hole separation efficiency and the charge transfer efficiency across the WO3/electrolyte interface.
Beyond Conventional Enhancements: Self‐Organization of a Buffer Material on Tin Oxide as a Game‐Changer for Improving the Performance of Inverted Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Wu Jifa , Li Yumeng , Tang Feng , Guo Yinchun , Liu Guoqiang , Wu Shaoguang , Hu Bin , Fu Yuang , Lu Xinhui , Lu Guanghao , He Zhicai , Zhu Xuhui , Peng Xiaobin
Published: June 2024

Inverted organic solar cells (OSCs) have garnered significant interest due to their remarkable stability. In this study, the efficiency and stability of inverted OSCs are enhanced via the in situ self‐organization (SO) of an interfacial modification material Phen‐NaDPO onto tin oxide (SnO2). During the device fabrication, Phen‐NaDPO is spin‐coated with the active materials all together on SnO2. Driven by the interactions with SnO2 and the thermodynamic forces due to its high surface energy and the convection flow, Phen‐NaDPO spontaneously migrates to the SnO2 interface, resulting in the formation of an in situ modification layer on SnO2. This self‐organization of Phen‐NaDPO not only effectively reduces the work function of SnO2, but also enhances the ordered molecular stacking and manipulates the vertical morphology of the active layer, which suppress the surface trap‐assisted recombination and minimize the charge extraction. As a result, the SO devices based on PM6:Y6 exhibit significantly improved photovoltaic performance with an enhanced power conversion efficiency of 17.62%. Moreover, the stability of the SO device is also improved. Furthermore, the SO ternary devices based on PM6:D18:L8‐BO achieved an impressive PCE of 18.87%, standing as one of the highest values for single‐junction inverted organic solar cells to date.
Academic integrity: Unique challenges for professional healthcare education with new emerging threats
Authors: Jared Barbara , Hanna Kimberly
Published: June 2024

This chapter provides unique challenges to academic integrity for professional healthcare educators while recognizing new emerging threats on the horizon.
Aerospace Engineering
Authors: Cardone Gennaro , Marulo Francesco
Published: June 2024

This chapter summarizes the research activities and main outcomes of the groups engaged in the fields of Aerospace Engineering, in the decade 2013–2023. The research topics are Aerodynamics, Aerospace Systems, Design of Aircraft and Flight, Fluid-dynamics, Propulsion and Structural Technologies.
Thermal Engineering and Building Energy Systems
Authors: Minichiello Francesco , Naso Vincenzo
Published: June 2024

This chapter summarizes the research activities and main outcomes of the groups engaged in Thermal Engineering and Building Energy Systems, in the decade 2013–2023. The research topics are typical of the sectors called “Fisica tecnica industriale” and “Fisica tecnica ambientale”.
From Mechanical to Complex System Modeling and Design
Authors: Martorelli Massimo
Published: June 2024

This chapter summarizes the main research activities and outcomes of the groups engaged in Mechanical Engineering, in the decade 2013–2023. The research topics are typical of the sectors Mechanical and Thermal Measurements, Applied Mechanics, Mechanical Design and Machine construction, Design Methods for Industrial Engineering.
LLM Adoption Trends and Associated Risks
Authors: Schillaci Zachary
Published: June 2024

The emergence of Large Language Models (LLMs) is expected to impact the job market significantly, accelerating automation trends and posing a risk to traditionally creative-oriented jobs. LLMs can automate tasks in various fields, including design, journalism, and creative writing. Companies and public institutions can leverage generative models to enhance productivity and reduce workforce requirements through machine-assisted workflows and natural language interactions. While technical skills like programming may become less important in certain roles, generative models are unlikely to fully replace programmers due to the need for expertise in code validation and niche development. The enterprise landscape of LLMs comprises providers (organizations training proprietary models), integrators (technology companies fine-tuning LLMs for specific applications), and users (companies and individuals adopting LLM-powered solutions). The applications of the models include conversational search, customer service chatbots, content creation, personalized marketing, data analysis, and basic workflow automation. The regulatory landscape is rapidly evolving, with key considerations including copyright, data security, and liability. Government involvement and informed expertise are recommended to guide governance and decision-making processes in this domain.
Copyright-Related Risks in the Creation and Use of ML/AI Systems
Authors: German Daniel M.
Published: June 2024

The potential impact of LLMs on cybersecurity is moderated not only by their adoption, applications, technical capabilities, and safety technology supporting them, but also by the legal framework surrounding their usage. As countries around the world realize the profound impact ML and AI have on their society and economy, they need to ensure that the development and deployment of ML/AI solutions are aligned with the foundational principles of those countries. This chapter attempts to identify recent developments in the legal framework surrounding LLMs that will most likely impact their development and become suitable levers for ensuring their safety and guarding against their malicious usage, focusing on the EU and North America.
LLM Detectors
Authors: Da Silva Gameiro Henrique
Published: June 2024

LLM detectors aim at detecting text generated by an LLM. They can be categorized into two main types: specific detectors and general detectors. Specific detectors target a particular type of language or context, such as hate speech or spam. In contrast, general detectors aim to identify a broad range of problematic languages, such as misinformation or propaganda. They typically rely on supervised learning, using large labeled datasets to train the models to recognize patterns in the language. General-purpose detectors have shown bad results, but specific-purpose detectors have shown more promising results. This has to be nuanced due to the broad range of effective attacks, especially the paraphrasing attacks, to which all defense techniques are somewhat vulnerable. There are also many other challenges for developing detectors such as the growing numbers of different LLMs (open source or not) being developed and an effective detector that works with many human languages besides English. Mitigation techniques include storing user conversations with an LLM and watermarking (especially cryptographic).
On-Site Deployment of LLMs
Authors: Schillaci Zachary
Published: June 2024

As consumer electronics and tensor computation for machine learning (ML) continue to advance, model execution and training become more accessible. NVIDIA introduced the RTX 4090 graphics cards, marketed initially as gamer-oriented products, in late 2022. Though relatively expensive for consumer use, their manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of 1600 USD makes them affordable as a professional tool. These cards’ extensive video random access memory (vRAM), computational power comparable to last-generation flagship professional cards, and ability to use single-byte floats enable a pair of them to train, fine-tune, and run on-premises Large Language Models (LLMs) with up to 7 billion parameters per card. Until this release, such a feat would have required data center-level equipment. Although the RTX 4090 and H100 GPU represent a qualitative step forward, iterative improvements combined with the speculated lowering of computational precision to half-byte floats could make larger models even more accessible for on-premises use. This development might, in one aspect, lower the entry barrier for cyberattackers, simplifying the process for advanced persistent threats (APTs) to camouflage their activities amidst unsophisticated attackers or those employing generative LLMs for non-malicious purposes. Conversely, as an alternative to cloud-hosted models, on-site LLMs may limit the possibility of private information leakage or model poisoning while offering specialized capabilities for legitimate users.
Standards for LLM Security
Authors: Majumdar Subhabrata
Published: June 2024

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is a recognized authority on computer security that publishes guidelines and standards for a broad range of technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI). The guidelines include the requirement for LLM decision-making transparency, explainability, testing, and validation to guarantee model reliability and security. Moreover, the NIST has also created standards for cryptography, a critical element of many LLM-based applications, such as secure communication and data encryption. The cryptography standards help ensure that LLM-based applications are secure and resilient against attacks by malicious entities. NIST standards can provide a practical framework for secure and ethical LLM-based application development and deployment. By adhering to these standards, developers and organizations can increase the confidence that their LLM-based applications are dependable, trustworthy, and resistant to attacks.
Towards Safe LLMs Integration
Authors: Majumdar Subhabrata , Vogelsang Terry
Published: June 2024

LLMs face a critical vulnerability known as sandbox breakout, where attackers bypass the system designers’ limitations to prevent malicious access to the resources for which the LLM agent is a user interface. Thus, they can access the system and potentially steal data, change the interaction with other users, or inject malicious code or contents into underlying databases. Therefore, it is essential to identify and address vulnerabilities that could be exploited to break out of the sandbox. These vulnerabilities could exist in the sandbox, the operating system, or the LLM’s software dependencies. To mitigate the risk of LLM sandbox breakout, robust security measures, such as regular model updates, automated model red-teaming, testing, and access control policies, must be implemented. In addition, sandboxing should be enforced at multiple levels to reduce the attack surface and prevent attackers from accessing critical systems. By implementing these measures, the risk of LLM sandbox breakout can be significantly reduced, and the security and reliability of LLM-based applications can be improved.
Overview of Existing LLM Families
Authors: Kucharavy Andrei
Published: June 2024

While the general public discovered Large Language Models (LLMs) with ChatGPT—a generative autoregressive model, they are far from the only models in the LLM family. Various architectures and training regiments optimized for specific usages were designed throughout their development, which were then classified as different LLM families.
Phishing and Social Engineering in the Age of LLMs
Authors: Gallagher Sean , Gelman Ben , Taoufiq Salma , Vörös Tamás , Lee Younghoo , Kyadige Adarsh , Bergeron Sean
Published: June 2024

The human factor remains a major vulnerability in cybersecurity. This chapter explores the escalating threats that Large Language Models (LLMs) pose in the field of cybercrime, particularly in phishing and social engineering. Due to their ability to generate highly convincing and individualized content, LLMs enhance the effectiveness and scale of phishing attacks, making them increasingly difficult to detect. The integration of multimodal generative models allows malicious actors to leverage AI-generated text, images, and audio, increasing attack avenues and making attacks more convincing. Two case studies provide a comprehensive look, examining how AI technology orchestrates a phishing attack posing as a typical e-commerce transaction and how an LLM was used in a romance-themed cryptocurrency scam. Both scenarios underline the need for increased awareness and improved defenses against these novel and sophisticated cyber threats.
Development and application of a colloidal-gold immunochromatographic strip for detecting Getah virus antibodies
Authors: Jiang Zhiwen , Qin Ying , Zhang Letian , Xing Gang , Shi Zhiyu , Song Wanjie , Dobrikov Georgi M. , Chen Jie , Su Shuo
Published: June 2024

Getah virus (GETV) is a re-emerging mosquito-borne alphavirus that is highly pathogenic, mainly to pigs and horses. There are no vaccines or treatments available for GETV in swine in China. Therefore, the development of a simple, rapid, specific, and sensitive serological assay for GETV antibodies is essential for the prevention and control of GETV. Current antibody monitoring methods are time-consuming, expensive, and dependent on specialized instrumentation, and these features are not conducive to rapid detection in clinical samples. To address these problem, we developed immunochromatographic test strips (ICTS) using eukaryotically expressed soluble recombinant p62-E1 protein of GETV as a labelled antigen, which has good detection sensitivity and no cross-reactivity with other common porcine virus-positive sera. The ICTS is highly compatible with IFA and ELISA and can be stored for 1 month at 37 °C and for at least 3 months at room temperature. Hence, p62-E1-based ICTS is a rapid, accurate, and convenient method for rapid on-site detection of GETV antibodies.

Key points

• We established a rapid antibody detection method that can monitor GETV infection

• We developed colloidal gold test strips with high sensitivity and specificity

• The development of colloidal gold test strips will aid in the field serologic detection of GETV
Spatial profiles of the bacterial microbiota throughout the gastrointestinal tract of dairy goats
Authors: Hu Qingyong , Luo Jun , Cheng Fei , Wang Ping , Gong Ping , Lv Xuefeng , Wang Xinpei , Yang Min , Wei Pengbo
Published: June 2024

The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is stationed by a dynamic and complex microbial community with functions in digestion, metabolism, immunomodulation, and reproduction. However, there is relatively little research on the composition and function of microorganisms in different GIT segments in dairy goats. Herein, 80 chyme samples were taken from ten GIT sites of eight Xinong Saanen dairy goats and then analyzed and identified the microbial composition via 16S rRNA V1-V9 amplicon sequencing. A total of 6669 different operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were clustered, and 187 OTUs were shared by ten GIT segments. We observed 264 species belonging to 23 different phyla scattered across ten GITs, with Firmicutes (52.42%) and Bacteroidetes (22.88%) predominating. The results revealed obvious location differences in the composition, diversity, and function of the GIT microbiota. In LEfSe analysis, unidentified_Lachnospiraceae and unidentified_Succinniclassicum were significantly enriched in the four chambers of stomach, with functions in carbohydrate fermentation to compose short-chain fatty acids. Aeriscardovia, Candidatus_Saccharimonas, and Romboutsia were significantly higher in the foregut, playing an important role in synthesizing enzymes, amino acids, and vitamins and immunomodulation. Akkermansia, Bacteroides, and Alistipes were significantly abundant in the hindgut to degrade polysaccharides and oligosaccharides, etc. From rumen to rectum, α-diversity decreased first and then increased, while β-diversity showed the opposite trend. Metabolism was the major function of the GIT microbiome predicted by PICRUSt2, but with variation in target substrates along the regions. In summary, GIT segments play a decisive role in the composition and functions of microorganisms.

Key points

• The jejunum and ileum were harsh for microorganisms to colonize due to the presence of bile acids, enzymes, faster chyme circulation, etc., exhibiting the lowest α-diversity and the highest β-diversity.

• Variability in microbial profiles between the three foregut segments was greater than four chambers of stomach and hindgut, with a higher abundance of Firmicutes dominating than others.

• Dairy goats dominated a higher abundance of Kiritimatiellaeota than cows, which was reported to be associated with fatty acid synthesis.
Mucor thermorhizoides—A New Species from Post-mining Site in Sudety Mountains (Poland)
Authors: Abramczyk Beniamin M. , Wiktorowicz Dorota G. , Okrasińska Alicja , Pawłowska Julia Z.
Published: June 2024

Mucor representatives are mostly rapidly growing cosmopolitan soil saprotrophs of early diverged Mucoromycotina subphylum. Although this is the most speciose genus within the group, some lineages are still understudied. In this study, new species of Mucor was isolated from the post-mining area in southwestern Poland, where soil chemical composition analysis revealed high concentration of hydrocarbons and heavy metals. Phylogenetic analysis based on multigene phylogeny showed that the new isolate clusters distinctly from other Mucor species as a sister group to Mucor microsporus. New species Mucor thermorhizoides Abramczyk (Mucorales, Mucoromycota) is characterized by the extensive rhizoid production in elevated temperatures and formation of two layers of sporangiophores. It also significantly differs from M. microsporus in the shape of spores and the size of sporangia. M. thermorhizoides was shown to be able to grow in oligotrophic conditions at low temperatures. Together with M. microsporus they represent understudied and highly variable lineage of the Mucor genus.
Skin health of community-living older people: a scoping review
Authors: Kottner Jan , Fastner Alexandra , Lintzeri Dimitra-Aikaterini , Blume-Peytavi Ulrike , Griffiths Christopher E. M.
Published: June 2024

The population of older people is steadily increasing and the majority live at home. Although the home and community are the largest care settings worldwide, most of the evidence on dermatological care relates to secondary and tertiary care. The overall aims were to map the available evidence regarding the epidemiology and burden of the most frequent skin conditions and regarding effects of screening, risk assessment, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of the most frequent skin conditions in older people living in the community. A scoping review was conducted. MEDLINE, Embase and Epistemonikos were systematically searched for clinical practice guidelines, reviews and primary studies, as well as Grey Matters and EASY for grey literature published between January 2010 and March 2023. Records were screened and data of included studies extracted by two reviewers, independently. Results were summarised descriptively. In total, 97 publications were included. The vast majority described prevalence or incidence estimates. Ranges of age groups varied widely and unclear reporting was frequent. Sun-exposure and age-related skin conditions such as actinic keratoses, xerosis cutis, neoplasms and inflammatory diseases were the most frequent dermatoses identified, although melanoma and/or non-melanoma skin cancer were the skin conditions investigated most frequently. Evidence regarding the burden of skin conditions included self-reported skin symptoms and concerns, mortality, burden on the health system, and impact on quality of life. A minority of articles reported effects of screening, risk assessment, diagnosis, prevention and treatment, mainly regarding skin cancer. A high number of skin conditions and diseases affect older people living at home and in the community but evidence about the burden and effective prevention and treatment strategies is weak. Best practices of how to improve dermatological care in older people remain to be determined and there is a particular need for interventional studies to support and to improve skin health at home.
A miRNA-based epigenetic molecular clock for biological skin-age prediction
Authors: Roig-Genoves Jose Vicente , García-Giménez José Luis , Mena-Molla Salvador
Published: June 2024

Skin aging is one of the visible characteristics of the aging process in humans. In recent years, different biological clocks have been generated based on protein or epigenetic markers, but few have focused on biological age in the skin. Arrest the aging process or even being able to restore an organism from an older to a younger stage is one of the main challenges in the last 20 years in biomedical research. We have implemented several machine learning models, including regression and classification algorithms, in order to create an epigenetic molecular clock based on miRNA expression profiles of healthy subjects to predict biological age-related to skin. Our best models are capable of classifying skin samples according to age groups (18–28; 29–39; 40–50; 51–60 or 61–83 years old) with an accuracy of 80% or predict age with a mean absolute error of 10.89 years using the expression levels of 1856 unique miRNAs. Our results suggest that this kind of epigenetic clocks arises as a promising tool with several applications in the pharmaco-cosmetic industry.
Surgeon assessment of significant rectal polyps using white light endoscopy alone and in comparison to fluorescence-augmented AI lesion classification
Authors: Hardy Niall P. , Moynihan Alice , Dalli Jeffrey , Epperlein Jonathan P. , McEntee Philip D. , Boland Patrick A. , Neary Peter M. , Cahill Ronan A.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Perioperative decision making for large (> 2 cm) rectal polyps with ambiguous features is complex. The most common intraprocedural assessment is clinician judgement alone while radiological and endoscopic biopsy can provide periprocedural detail. Fluorescence-augmented machine learning (FA-ML) methods may optimise local treatment strategy.

Methods

Surgeons of varying grades, all performing colonoscopies independently, were asked to visually judge endoscopic videos of large benign and early-stage malignant (potentially suitable for local excision) rectal lesions on an interactive video platform (Mindstamp) with results compared with and between final pathology, radiology and a novel FA-ML classifier. Statistical analyses of data used Fleiss Multi-rater Kappa scoring, Spearman Coefficient and Frequency tables.

Results

Thirty-two surgeons judged 14 ambiguous polyp videos (7 benign, 7 malignant). In all cancers, initial endoscopic biopsy had yielded false-negative results. Five of each lesion type had had a pre-excision MRI with a 60% false-positive malignancy prediction in benign lesions and a 60% over-staging and 40% equivocal rate in cancers. Average clinical visual cancer judgement accuracy was 49% (with only ‘fair’ inter-rater agreement), many reporting uncertainty and higher reported decision confidence did not correspond to higher accuracy. This compared to 86% ML accuracy. Size was misjudged visually by a mean of 20% with polyp size underestimated in 4/6 and overestimated in 2/6. Subjective narratives regarding decision-making requested for 7/14 lesions revealed wide rationale variation between participants.

Conclusion

Current available clinical means of ambiguous rectal lesion assessment is suboptimal with wide inter-observer variation. Fluorescence based AI augmentation may advance this field via objective, explainable ML methods.
Giant root-rat engineering and livestock grazing activities regulate plant functional trait diversity of an Afroalpine vegetation community in the Bale Mountains, Ethiopia
Authors: Asefa Addisu , Reuber Victoria M. , Miehe Georg , Wraase Luise , Wube Tilaye , Farwig Nina , Schabo Dana G.
Published: June 2024

Disturbances from rodent engineering and human activities profoundly impact ecosystem structure and functioning. Whilst we know that disturbances modulate plant communities, comprehending the mechanisms through which rodent and human disturbances influence the functional trait diversity and trait composition of plant communities is important to allow projecting future changes and to enable informed decisions in response to changing intensity of the disturbances. Here, we evaluated the changes in functional trait diversity and composition of Afroalpine plant communities in the Bale Mountains of Ethiopia along gradients of engineering disturbances of a subterranean endemic rodent, the giant root-rat (Tachyoryctes macrocephalus Rüppell 1842) and human activities (settlement establishment and livestock grazing). We conducted RLQ (co-inertia analysis) and fourth-corner analyses to test for trait-disturbance (rodent engineering/human activities) covariation. Overall, our results show an increase in plant functional trait diversity with increasing root-rat engineering and increasing human activities. We found disturbance specific association with traits. Specifically, we found strong positive association of larger seed mass with increasing root-rat fresh burrow density, rhizomatous vegetative propagation negatively associated with increasing root-rat old burrow, and stolonifereous vegetative propagation positively associated with presence of root-rat mima mound. Moreover, both leaf size and leaf nitrogen content were positively associated with livestock dung abundance but negatively with distance from settlement. Overall, our results suggest that disturbances by rodents filter plant traits related to survival and reproduction strategies, whereas human activities such as livestock grazing act as filters for traits related to leaf economics spectrum along acquisitive resource-use strategy.
Slim Tree-Cut Width
Authors: Ganian Robert , Korchemna Viktoriia
Published: June 2024

Tree-cut width is a parameter that has been introduced as an attempt to obtain an analogue of treewidth for edge cuts. Unfortunately, in spite of its desirable structural properties, it turned out that tree-cut width falls short as an edge-cut based alternative to treewidth in algorithmic aspects. This has led to the very recent introduction of a simple edge-based parameter called edge-cut width [WG 2022], which has precisely the algorithmic applications one would expect from an analogue of treewidth for edge cuts, but does not have the desired structural properties. In this paper, we study a variant of tree-cut width obtained by changing the threshold for so-called thin nodes in tree-cut decompositions from 2 to 1. We show that this “slim tree-cut width” satisfies all the requirements of an edge-cut based analogue of treewidth, both structural and algorithmic, while being less restrictive than edge-cut width. Our results also include an alternative characterization of slim tree-cut width via an easy-to-use spanning-tree decomposition akin to the one used for edge-cut width, a characterization of slim tree-cut width in terms of forbidden immersions as well as approximation algorithm for computing the parameter.
The relationship between lower urinary system symptoms and the level of independence and quality of life in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Öztürk Demet , Karaduman Aynur Ayşe , Akbayrak Türkan
Published: June 2024

Background

The purpose was to investigate the frequency of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and the relationship between these symptoms and independence and quality of life (QoL).

Methods

The cross-sectional study included children aged 5–18 years and diagnosed with DMD and their families. Data were collected using the Dysfunctional Voiding and Incontinence Scoring System (DVISS), the Barthel Index, and the Pediatric Quality of Life™ 3.0 Neuromuscular Module (PedsQL-NMM).

Results

The study was completed with 45 children with DMD. LUTS was found in 86.66% and LUTD was found in 44.44%. The most common symptom was holding maneuvers (62.22%). Other common symptoms were urinary urgency (55.55%), daytime urinary incontinence (46.66%), and enuresis (31.11%). There was a significant correlation of the DVISS with the level of independence and QoL (p < 0.05). Moreover, higher LUTS score was associated with lower Barthel and PedsQL-NMM scores.

Conclusion

LUTS is a neglected condition, although it is frequently seen in children with DMD.

Clinical trial registration: NCT05464446

Graphical Abstract
The effect of a barrier membrane on the incorporation of deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) in experimental defects at the time of early implant placement. A preclinical study
Authors: Ellis Rebecca , Chen Stephen , Guzón Fernando Mª Muñoz , Darby Ivan
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to assess membrane use with a bone substitute graft for guided bone regeneration (GBR) in experimental dehiscence defects.

Materials and methods

Maxillary second incisors (I2) in 9 dogs were extracted. Six weeks later, implants were inserted and experimental dehiscence defects (5 × 3 mm) created on the buccal aspect. The defects and surrounding bone were grafted with deproteinized bovine bone mineral. One side (test) was covered with a resorbable collagen membrane whereas the contralateral side (control) was not. After 6 weeks, histomorphometrical analysis was performed to evaluate: (a) first bone-to-implant contact (fBIC), (b) buccal bone thickness at 1 mm increments from implant shoulder, (c) regenerated area (RA), (d) area and percentages of new bone (B), bone substitute (BS) and mineralized tissue (MT).

Results

The histological appearance was similar between test and control sites. At central and lateral sections, there were no differences between groups for fBIC, buccal bone thickness, RA, BS, B, %B, MT and %MT. At central sections, membrane use favoured more %BS and %MT (p = 0.052). There was significantly more B, %B and MT at lateral compared to central sections.

Conclusions

Membrane use tended to retain more bone substitute, but had no effect on new bone ingrowth. Lateral sections showed significantly more bone ingrowth and mineralized tissue compared to central sections, confirming that new bone ingrowth takes place mainly from the lateral walls of the defect.

Clinical relevance

Preclinical research to clarify the dynamics of bone regeneration in GBR procedures is relevant in clinical practice.