bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explaining the hints for lepton flavour universality violation with three S2 leptoquark generations
Authors: Crivellin Andreas , Fuks Benjamin , Schnell Luc
Published: July 2022

Abstract

Leptoquarks are prime candidates for explaining the intriguing hints for lepton flavour universality violation. In particular, the SU(2)L doublet of scalar leptoquarks S2 is capable of providing an explanation for the tensions between the measurements and the Standard Model predictions in (g − 2)μ, b → sℓ+ℓ− and b → cτν processes, as well as in non-resonant di-electron production. However, in the minimal setup with a single leptoquark generation, a common explanation for all these issues is not possible as this would lead to unacceptably large charged lepton flavour violation. We therefore propose a model with three generations of S2, each coupling exclusively to a single lepton flavour, i.e. a model extending the Standard Model particle content by an electroquark, a muoquark and a tauquark. We show that after taking into account other constraints, such as those originating from electroweak precision observables and ∆F = 2 processes, it is possible to provide a combined explanation for all these hints of lepton flavour universality violation. Moreover, we find that the presence of the tauquark can generate a dimension-six $$ {\mathcal{O}}_9^U $$

O
9
U

operator via off-shell photon penguin diagrams, which, together with the muoquark contribution, further improves the global fit to b → sℓ+ℓ− data.
Comments on symmetric mass generation in 2d and 4d
Authors: Tong David
Published: July 2022

Abstract

Symmetric mass generation is the name given to a mechanism for gapping fermions while preserving a chiral, but necessarily non-anomalous, symmetry. In this paper we describe how symmetric mass generation for continuous symmetries can be achieved using gauge dynamics in two and four dimensions. Various strong coupling effects are invoked, including known properties of supersymmetric gauge theories, specifically the phenomenon of s-confinement, and conjectured properties of non-supersymmetric chiral gauge theories.
Metaplectic representation and ordering (in)dependence in Vasiliev’s higher spin gravity
Authors: De Filippi David , Iazeolla Carlo , Sundell Per
Published: July 2022

Abstract

We investigate the formulation of Vasiliev’s four-dimensional higher-spin gravity in operator form, without making reference to one specific ordering. More precisely, we make use of the one-to-one mapping between operators and symbols thereof for a family of ordering prescriptions that interpolate between and go beyond Weyl and normal orderings. This correspondence allows us to perturbatively integrate the Vasiliev system in operator form and in a variety of gauges. Expanding the master fields in inhomogenous symplectic group elements, and letting products be controlled only by the group, we specify a family of factorized gauges in which we are able to integrate the system to all orders, producing exact solutions, including but not restricted to ones presented previously in the literature; and then connect, at first order, to a family of rotated Vasiliev gauges in which the solutions can be represented in terms of Fronsdal fields. The gauge function responsible for the latter transformation is explicitly constructed at first order. The analysis of the system in various orderings is facilitated by an analytic continuation of Gaussian symbols, by means of which one can distinguish and connect the two branches of the metaplectic double cover and give a rationale to the properties of the inner Klein operators as Gaussian delta sequences defining analytic delta densities. As an application of some of the techniques here developed, we evaluate twistor space Wilson line observables on our exact solutions and show their independence from auxiliary constructs up to the few first subleading orders in perturbation theory.
Discrete integrable systems, supersymmetric quantum mechanics, and framed BPS states
Authors: Cirafici Michele , Del Zotto Michele
Published: July 2022

Abstract

It is possible to understand whether a given BPS spectrum is generated by a relevant deformation of a 4D$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 2 SCFT or of an asymptotically free theory from the periodicity properties of the corresponding quantum monodromy. With the aim of giving a better understanding of the above conjecture, in this paper we revisit the description of framed BPS states of four-dimensional relativistic quantum field theories with eight conserved supercharges in terms of supersymmetric quantum mechanics. We unveil aspects of the deep interrelationship in between the Seiberg-dualities of the latter, the discrete symmetries of the theory in the bulk, and quantum discrete integrable systems.
The PEE aspects of entanglement islands from bit threads
Authors: Lin Yi-Yu , Sun Jia-Rui , Sun Yuan , Jin Jie-Chen
Published: July 2022

Abstract

We study the partial entanglement entropy (PEE) aspects of the holographic BCFT setup with an entanglement island, inspired by the holographic triality of the AdS/BCFT setup developed in the recent study on the black hole information problem, and the “PEE=CFF (component flow flux)” prescription, which is proposed recently to investigate the holographic PEE in the framework of bit thread formulation. Our study provides a bit thread description of the AdS/BCFT setup, which characterizes the specific entanglement details between the different parts of the system with an entanglement island, and may provide further insight into the black hole information problem. Furthermore, we show that in the context of island, one should distinguish between the fine-grained PEE and the semi-classical PEE. Interestingly, similar to the island rule of the fine-grained entropy in the semi-classical picture, we also propose the island rules of the fine-grained PEE.
Aspirin sensitivity of PIK3CA-mutated Colorectal Cancer: potential mechanisms revisited
Authors: Hall Daniella C. N. , Benndorf Ralf A.
Published: July 2022

PIK3CAmutations are amongst the most prevalent somatic mutations in cancer and are associated with resistance to first-line treatment along with low survival rates in a variety of malignancies. There is evidence that patients carryingPIK3CAmutations may benefit from treatment with acetylsalicylic acid, commonly known as aspirin, particularly in the setting of colorectal cancer. In this regard, it has been clarified that Class IA Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3K), whose catalytic subunit p110α is encoded by thePIK3CAgene, are involved in signal transduction that regulates cell cycle, cell growth, and metabolism and, if disturbed, induces carcinogenic effects. Although PI3K is associated with pro-inflammatory cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression and signaling, and COX-2 is among the best-studied targets of aspirin, the mechanisms behind this clinically relevant phenomenon are still unclear. Indeed, there is further evidence that the protective, anti-carcinogenic effect of aspirin in this setting may be mediated in a COX-independent manner. However, until now the understanding of aspirin’s prostaglandin-independent mode of action is poor. This review will provide an overview of the current literature on this topic and aims to analyze possible mechanisms and targets behind the aspirin sensitivity ofPIK3CA-mutated cancers.
Edge States for Generalized Iwatsuka Models: Magnetic Fields Having a Fast Transition Across a Curve
Authors: Giunti Arianna , Velázquez Juan J. L.
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we study the localization and propagation properties of the edge states associated with a class of magnetic Laplacians in$$\mathbb {R}^2$$R2. We assume that the intensity of the magnetic field has a fast transition along a regular and compact curve$$\Gamma $$Γ. Our main results extend to a general regular curve the study of the localized eigenfunction obtained when$$\Gamma $$Γis a straight line (i.e.Iwatsuka models). Furthermore, we include in our analysis the case of magnetic fields that slowly change along the curve$$\Gamma $$Γand we obtain a rigorous and explicit characterization of the asymptotic mass distribution of the edge state along$$\Gamma $$Γ.
Heat transfer at nanoscale and boundary conditions
Authors: Bochicchio I. , Giannetti F. , Sellitto A.
Published: July 2022

A model of nonlocal heat transfer at nanoscale in rigid bodies is considered. Depending on the relevance of the particular interaction’s mechanism between the heat carriers and the lateral walls, three different strategies for the setting-up of the boundary conditions are analyzed, and the consequent forms of the basic fields have been obtained, as well. From the physical point of view, the possible influence of those interactions on the unknown fields is pointed out. From the mathematical point of view, instead, the well-posedness of the problem is shown.
Artificial intelligence and democratic legitimacy. The problem of publicity in public authority
Authors: Beckman Ludvig , Hultin Rosenberg Jonas , Jebari Karim
Published: July 2022

Machine learning algorithms (ML) are increasingly used to support decision-making in the exercise of public authority. Here, we argue that an important consideration has been overlooked in previous discussions: whether the use of ML undermines the democratic legitimacy of public institutions. From the perspective of democratic legitimacy, it is not enough that ML contributes to efficiency and accuracy in the exercise of public authority, which has so far been the focus in the scholarly literature engaging with these developments. According to one influential theory, exercises of administrative and judicial authority are democratically legitimate if and only if administrative and judicial decisions serve the ends of the democratic law maker, are based on reasons that align with these ends and are accessible to the public. These requirements are not satisfied by decisions determined through ML since such decisions are determined by statistical operations that are opaque in several respects. However, not all ML-based decision support systems pose the same risk, and we argue that a considered judgment on the democratic legitimacy of ML in exercises of public authority need take the complexity of the issue into account. This paper outlines considerations that help guide the assessment of whether a ML undermines democratic legitimacy when used to support public decisions. We argue that two main considerations are pertinent to such normative assessment. The first is the extent to which ML is practiced as intended and the extent to which it replaces decisions that were previously accessible and based on reasons. The second is that uses of ML in exercises of public authority should be embedded in an institutional infrastructure that secures reason giving and accessibility.
Exploring the sources of knowledge diversity in founding teams and its impact on new firms’ innovation
Authors: Corrocher Nicoletta , Lenzi Camilla
Published: July 2022

This paper studies the relationship between founding team knowledge diversity and firms’ innovative performance. We posit that knowledge diversity entails two dimensions: a team dimension and an individual dimension. In particular, we argue that founding team knowledge diversity can derive both from the presence of founders with different knowledge backgrounds, and from the presence of similar jack-of-all-trades (JOTs). We suggest that knowledge diversity is positively associated with innovation, especially when diversity comes from founders with different knowledge backgrounds, instead of coming from many JOTs. Furthermore, it matters more for firms whose knowledge base is oriented towards technical and scientific applications, as opposed to firms with a generalist, business-oriented knowledge base. We provide support to these propositions relying on a study of 1,800 newly established firms in Europe.
Gender inequality and the entrepreneurial gender gap: Evidence from 97 countries (2006–2017)
Authors: Rietveld Cornelius A. , Patel Pankaj C.
Published: July 2022

Although it seems almost a stylized fact that females are less likely than males to start new ventures, closing this gender gap is essential to foster sustainable economic growth. In this study, we analyze whether gender inequality, as measured at the country level by the World Economic Forum since 2006, is associated with the gender gap in entrepreneurship. By analyzing country-level information about gender inequality (97 countries) in combination with individual-level data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (1,905,665 individuals) from the years 2006 to 2017, we find that in more gender equal countries involvement in total early-stage entrepreneurial activity (TEA) is higher. Gender inequality moderates the effect of gender on TEA, by almost closing the gender gap in entrepreneurship in the most gender equal countries. We show that gender inequalities in economic participation and opportunity as well as in political empowerment are the main drivers of this interaction effect. We find similar patterns when distinguishing between opportunity-driven and necessity-driven TEA. With opportunity-driven entrepreneurship as a potential vehicle for the economic empowerment of females, our study highlights the role of policies stimulating gender equality.
A first-in-human study of [68Ga]Ga-CDI: a positron emitting radiopharmaceutical for imaging tumour cell death
Authors: Ho Shon Ivan , Hennessy Thomas , Guille Jennifer , Gotsbacher Michael P. , Lay Angelina J. , McBride Bruce , Codd Rachel , Hogg Philip J.
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study assesses human biodistribution, radiation dosimetry, safety and tumour uptake of cell death indicator labelled with 68Ga ([68Ga]Ga-CDI), a novel radiopharmaceutical that can image multiple forms of cell death.

Methods

Five participants with at least one extracranial site of solid malignancy > 2 cm and no active cancer treatment in the 8 weeks prior to the study were enrolled. Participants were administered 205 ± 4.1 MBq (range, 200–211 MBq) of [68Ga]Ga-CDI and 8 serial PET scans acquired: the first commencing immediately and the last 3 h later. Participants were monitored for clinical, laboratory and electrocardiographic side effects and adverse events. Urine and blood radioactivity was measured. Spherical volumes of interest were drawn over tumour, blood pool and organs to determine biodistribution and calculate dosimetry. In one participant, tumour specimens were analysed for cell death using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) staining.

Results

[68Ga]Ga-CDI is safe and well-tolerated with no side effects or adverse events. [68Ga]Ga-CDI is renally excreted, demonstrates low levels of physiologic uptake in the other organs and has excellent imaging characteristics. The mean effective dose was 2.17E − 02 ± 4.61E − 03 mSv/MBq. It images constitutive tumour cell death and correlates with tumour cell death on histology.

Conclusion

[68Ga]Ga-CDI is a novel cell death imaging radiopharmaceutical that is safe, has low radiation dosimetry and excellent biodistribution and imaging characteristics. It has potential advantages over previously investigated radiopharmaceuticals for imaging of cell death and has progressed to a proof-of-concept trial.

Trial registration

ACTRN12621000641897 (28/5/2021, retrospectively registered)
Weighted U-statistics for likelihood-ratio ordering of bivariate data
Authors: Kulathinal Sangita , Dewan Isha
Published: July 2022

Characterisation of marginal distribution and density functions is of interest where data on a pair of random variables (X, Y) are observed. Stochastic orderings between (X, Y) have been studied in statistics and economics. Likelihood-ratio ordering is useful in understanding the behaviour of the random variables. In this article, tests based on U-statistics are proposed to test for equality of marginal density functions against the alternative of likelihood-ratio ordered when (X, Y) are dependent. The tests can be used when the data are either completely observed or subjected to independent univariate right censoring. The asymptotic variances of these tests are complicated and hence, are estimated using jackknife variance estimators. Validity of the jackknife variance estimators in statistical inference based on the proposed tests is demonstrated using simulation studies. The test for uncensored setting has desired size and good power for small sample. The performance of the tests for censored case depends on the sample size, proportion of censoring and the measure of dependence between X and Y. The tests are illustrated on three real data sets chosen in order to bring out various aspects of the tests.
Changes in freezing rain occurrence over eastern Canada using convection-permitting climate simulations
Authors: Marinier Sébastien , Thériault Julie M. , Ikeda Kyoko
Published: July 2022

Freezing precipitation has major consequences for ground and air transportation, the health of citizens, and power networks. Previous studies using coarse resolution climate models have shown a northward migration of freezing rain in the future. Increased model resolution can better define local topography leading to improved representation of conditions that are favorable for freezing rain. The goal of this study is to examine the climatology and characteristics of future freezing rain events using very-high resolution climate simulations. Historical and pseudo-global warming simulations with a 4-km horizontal grid length were used and compared with available observations. Simulations revealed a northerly shift of freezing rain occurrence, and an increase in the winter. Freezing rain was still shown to occur in the Saint-Lawrence River Valley in a warmer climate, primarily due to stronger wind channeling. Up to 50% of the future freezing rain events also occurred in present day climate within 12 h of each other. In northern Maine, they are typically shorter than 6 h in current climate and longer than 6 h in warmer conditions due to the onset of precipitation during low-pressure systems occurrences. The occurrence of freezing rain also locally increases slightly north of Québec City in a warmer climate because of freezing rain that is produced by warm rain processes. Overall, the study shows that high-resolution regional climate simulations are needed to study freezing rain events in warmer climate conditions, because high horizontal resolutions better define small-scale topographic features and local physical mechanisms that have an influence on these events.
Surgical treatment of rectovaginal fistula—predictors of outcome and effects on quality of life
Authors: Söderqvist Erik V. , Cashin Peter H. , Graf Wilhelm
Published: July 2022

Purpose

To determine the results after rectovaginal fistula (RVF) repair and find predictors of outcome. Primary objective was fistula healing. Secondary outcomes were morbidity and patient health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Method

An observational study of 55 women who underwent RVF repair including both local procedures and tissue transposition 2003–2018 was performed. Baseline patient and fistula characteristics were registered, combined with a prospective HRQoL follow-up and a general questionnaire describing fistula symptoms.

Results

Healing rate after index surgery was 25.5% (n = 14) but the final healing rate was 67.3% (n = 37). Comparing the etiologies, traumatic fistulas (iatrogenic and obstetric) had the highest healing rates after index surgery (n = 11, 45.9%) and after repeated operations at final follow-up (n = 22, 91.7%) compared with fistulas of inflammatory fistulas (Crohn’s disease, cryptoglandular infection, and anastomotic leakage) that had inferior healing rates after both index surgery (n = 7, 7.1%) and at final follow-up (n = 13, 46.4%). Fistulas of the category others (radiation damage and unknown etiology) included a small amount of patients with intermediate results at both index surgery (n = 1, 33.3%) and healing rate at last follow-up (n = 2, 66.7%). The differences were statistically significant for both index surgery (p = 0.004) and at final follow-up (p = 0.001). Unhealed patients scored lower than both healed patients and the normal population in 6/8 Rand-36 domains, but the differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Most traumatic rectovaginal fistulas closed after repeated surgery whereas inflammatory fistulas had a poor prognosis. Low healing rates after local repairs suggest that tissue transfer might be indicated more early in the treatment process. Unhealed fistulas were associated with reduced quality of life.

Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov No. NCT05006586.
Effect of national COVID-19 lockdown on the incidence of muscle, tendon and ligament injuries and related surgical procedures in the working-aged Finnish population
Authors: Möttönen Julius , Kuitunen Ilari , Uimonen Mikko , Mattila Ville M. , Paloneva Juha , Ponkilainen Ville
Published: July 2022

Introduction

The effect of lockdown on the incidence of fractures and severe injuries has been widely studied, whereas studies regarding muscle, tendon, and ligament injuries have not received as much attention. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of the lockdown and later regional regulations due to the COVID pandemic on the incidence of muscle, tendon, and ligament injuries and related surgical procedures.

Materials and methods

This study focuses on the working-age population in the catchment areas of three major Finnish hospitals. Patients were divided into three age groups 18–34, 35–50 and 51–65 years of age. Suitable injuries were retrieved from the data using appropriate ICD-10 codes and procedure codes. The monthly incidence rate ratio (IRR), with 95% confidence intervals (CI), were compared between the year 2020 and the reference years 2017–2019.

Results

Upper and lower extremity injury ED visits decreased by 15.7 and 8.2%. For upper extremity injuries, a decrease in incidence was observed for all three age groups in March (IRR 0.52, CI 0.33–0.80), (IRR 0.53, CI 0.31–0.91), (IRR 0.60, CI 0.38–0.95), respectively. An increase in 18–34 years of age group was detected in June (IRR 1.49, CI 1.05–2.13). Lower extremity injuries decreased in 18–34 years of age group in March (IRR 0.62, CI 0.43–0.90) and April (IRR 0.60, CI 0.42–0.87).

A decrease on the incidence of surgeries was observed in April for the 35–50 (IRR 0.53, CI 0.29–0.97) and 51–65 years of age groups (IRR 0.58, CI 0.34–0.98).

Conclusions

The nationwide lockdown in spring 2020 led to a notable decrease in the incidence of emergency department visits and the surgical treatment of muscle, tendon, and ligament injuries in Finland.
New entity of microsecretory adenocarcinoma of salivary glands: first case with recurrence and metastases — proof of malignancy
Authors: Jurmeister Philipp , Haas Christian , Eisterer Wolfgang , Rogatsch Hermann , Ihrler Stephan
Published: July 2022

Microsecretory adenocarcinoma (MSA) of the salivary glands is a recently described entity. Due to lack of reported metastases, in 30 cases described until now, the designation as low-grade cancer was so far solely based on demonstration of local tumor invasion and in a single case with perineural invasion. We herein describe the first documented case with local recurrence and hematogenous metastases.
Predicting time to treatment in follicular lymphoma on watchful waiting using baseline metabolic tumour burden
Authors: Leccisotti Lucia , Maccora Daria , Malafronte Rosalia , D’Alò Francesco , Maiolo Elena , Annunziata Salvatore , Rufini Vittoria , Giordano Alessandro , Hohaus Stefan
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Asymptomatic patients with follicular lymphoma (FL) and a low tumour burden can be followed without initial therapy, a strategy called watchful waiting (WW). Prediction of the time to treatment (TTT) is still a challenge. We investigated the prognostic value of baseline total metabolic tumour volume (TMTV) and whole-body total lesion glycolysis (WB-TLG) to predict TTT in patients with FL on WW.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of 54 patients with FL (grade 1–3a) diagnosed between June 2013 and December 2019, staged with FDG PET/CT, and managed on WW. Median age was 62 years (range 34–85), stage was advanced (III–IV) in 57%, and FLIPI score was intermediate to high (≥ 2) in 52% of the patients.

Results

The median TMTV and WB-TLG were 7.1 and 43.3, respectively. With a median follow-up of 59 months, 41% of patients started immuno-chemotherapy. The optimal cut-points to identify patients with TTT within 24 months were 14 for TMTV (AUC 0.70; 95% CI 51–88) and 64 for WB-TLG (AUC 0.71; 95% CI 52–89) (p < 0.005). The probability of not having started treatment within 24 months was 87% for TMTV < 14 and 53% for TMTV ≥ 14 (p < 0.005). TMTV was independent of the FLIPI score for TTT prediction. Patients with both FLIPI ≥ 2 and TMTV ≥ 14 had only an 18% probability of not having started treatment at 36 months, while this probability was 75% in patients with TMTV < 14.

Conclusion

Metabolic tumour volume parameters may add information to clinical scores to better predict TTT and better stratify patients for interventional studies.
Some connections between discrepancy, finite gap properties, and pair correlations
Authors: Weiß Christian
Published: July 2022

A generic uniformly distributed sequence $$(x_n)_{n \in \mathbb {N}}$$

(

x
n

)

n
∈
N

in [0, 1) possesses Poissonian pair correlations (PPC). Vice versa, it has been proven that a sequence with PPC is uniformly distributed. Grepstad and Larcher gave an explicit upper bound for the discrepancy of a sequence given that it has PPC. As a first result, we generalize here their result to the case of $$\alpha $$
α
-pair correlations with $$0< \alpha < 1$$

0
<
α
<
1

. Since the highest possible level of uniformity is achieved by low-discrepancy sequences it is tempting to assume that there are examples of such sequences which also have PPC. Although there are no such known examples, we prove that every low-discrepancy sequence has at least $$\alpha $$
α
-pair correlations for $$0< \alpha <1$$

0
<
α
<
1

. According to Larcher and Stockinger, the reason why many known classes of low-discrepancy sequences fail to have PPC is their finite gap property. In this article, we furthermore show that the discrepancy of a sequence with the finite gap property plus a condition on the distribution of the different gap lengths can be estimated. As a concrete application of this estimation, we re-prove the fact that van der Corput and Kronecker sequences are low-discrepancy sequences. Consequently, it follows from the finite gap property that these sequences have $$\alpha $$
α
-pair correlations for $$0< \alpha < 1$$

0
<
α
<
1

.
Data-driven analytical mechanics of aging viscoelastic shotcrete tunnel shells
Authors: Scharf Raphael , Pichler Bernhard , Heissenberger Roman , Moritz Bernd , Hellmich Christian
Published: July 2022

Based on the principle of virtual power, equilibrium conditions are established for the forces within a cross section of a tunnel top heading driven according the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM). External forces, namely impost actions and ground pressure distributions following a third-order polynomial, are analytically linked with internal forces, such as axial forces and bending moments, arising as integrals over the shell thickness, of circumferential normal stresses. The latter are related, via an aging viscoelastic shotcrete material model, to circumferential normal strains, as well as to radial and circumferential displacement components. This allows for analytical transformation of displacement measurement data collected at the crown and the footings of the shell segment, into ground pressure and impost action evolutions, together with all the associated force and stress quantities. For the Sieberg tunnel, driven in Miocene clay marl, our data-driven analytical mechanics model evidences virtually uniform ground pressure distributions, leading to a first rapidly increasing, and then mildly decreasing utilization degree of the shotcrete shell.
A dual-continuum model (TOUGH2) for characterizing flow and discharge in a mechanically disrupted sandstone overburden
Authors: Bedoya-Gonzalez Diego , Kessler Timo , Rinder Thomas , Schafmeister Maria-Theresia
Published: July 2022

Underground hard coal mining usually disrupts the mechanical equilibrium of rock sequences, creating fractures within minor permeable rocks. The present study employs a dual-continuum model to assess how both fractured and porous sandstone media influence the percolation process in postmining setups. To test the approach, the software TOUGH2 was employed to simulate laminar fluid flow in the unsaturated zone of the Ibbenbüren Westfield mining area. Compared to other coal mining districts in Germany, this area is delineated by the topography and local geology, leading to a well-defined hydrogeological framework. Results reveal good agreement between the calculated and measured mine water discharge for the years 2008 and 2017. The constructed model was capable of reproducing the bimodal flow behavior of the adit by coupling a permeable fractured continuum with a low-conductivity rock matrix. While flow from the fractured continuum results in intense discharge events during winter months, the rock matrix determines a smooth discharge limb in summer. The study also evaluates the influence of individual and combined model parameters affecting the simulated curve. A detailed sensitivity analysis displayed the absolute and relative permeability function parameters of both continua among the most susceptible variables. However, a strong a priori knowledge of the value ranges for the matrix continuum helps to reduce the model ambiguity. This allowed for calibration of some of the fractured medium parameters for which sparse or variable data were available. However, the inclusion of the transport component and acquisition of more site-specific data is recommended to reduce their uncertainty.
Effect of foaming parameters on the physical and phytochemical properties of tomato powder
Authors: Farid Eman , Mounir Sabah , Talaat Eman , Elnemr Sherif , Siliha Hassan
Published: July 2022

The objective of this work was to study the effect of foaming parameters on the physical and phytochemical properties of tomato powder. A central composite rotatable design of experiments was defined with two parameters (concentration of soy protein isolate [SPI]: 1–5% and whipping time: 2–14 min) with 5 levels for each parameter. The foam was prepared by whipping tomato puree after adding SPI and dried in a thin layer (4 mm ± 1) at 50 °C. The obtained results showed the predominant effect of the concentration of SPI on the physical and phytochemical properties compared to whipping time. The powder prepared under foaming conditions of 5% SPI and whipping time of 8 min showed an increase of 97, 39, 62, and 46% in the total phenolics, total flavonoids, antioxidant activity, and porosity, respectively, while the bulk density decreased by about 25%.
The tails of two invasive species: genetic responses to acute and chronic bottlenecks
Authors: Gatto-Almeida Fernanda , Pichlmueller Florian , Bodey Thomas W. , Samaniego Araceli , Russell James C.
Published: July 2022

Genetic diversity can affect population viability and can be reduced by both acute and chronic mechanisms. Using the history of the establishment and management of two invasive rat species on Tetiaroa atoll, French Polynesia, we investigated the intensity and longevity of contrasting population bottleneck mechanisms on genetic diversity and bottleneck signal. Using microsatellite loci we show how both a chronic reduction over approximately 50 years of a Rattus exulans population caused by the arrival of its competitor R. rattus, and an acute reduction in a R. rattus population caused by a failed eradication approximately 10 years ago, caused similar magnitudes of genetic diversity loss. Furthermore, these strong bottleneck signals were in addition to the lasting signal from initial colonisation by each species many decades to centuries earlier, characterising a genetic paradox of biological invasion. These findings have implications for the study of population genetics of invasive species, and underscore how important historical context of population dynamics is when interpreting snapshots of genetic diversity.
Not functional yet a difference maker: junk DNA as a case study
Authors: Havstad Joyce C. , Palazzo Alexander F.
Published: July 2022

It is often thought that non-junk or coding DNA is more significant than other cellular elements, including so-called junk DNA. This is for two main reasons: (1) because coding DNA is often targeted by historical or current selection, it is consideredfunctionallyspecial and (2) because its mode of action is uniquely specific amongst the other actual difference makers in the cell, it is consideredcausallyspecial. Here, we challenge both these presumptions. With respect to function, we argue that there is previously unappreciated reason to think that junk DNA is significant, since it can alter the cellular environment, and those alterations can influence how organism-level selection operates. With respect to causality, we argue that there is again reason to think that junk DNA is significant, since it too (like coding DNA) is remarkably causally specific (in Waters’, in J Philos 104:551–579, 2007 sense). As a result, something is missing from the received view of significance in molecular biology—a view which emphasizes specificity and neglects something we term ‘reach’. With the special case of junk DNA in mind, we explore how to model and understand the causal specificity, reach, and correspondingefficacyof difference makers in biology. The account contains implications for how evolution shapes the genome, as well as advances our understanding of multi-level selection.
Against the generalised theory of function
Authors: Fagerberg Harriet
Published: July 2022

Justin Garson has recently advanced a Generalised Selected Effects Theory of biological proper function. According to Garson, his theory spells trouble for the Dysfunction Account of Disorder. This paper argues that Garson’s critique of the Dysfunction Account from the Generalised Theory fails, and that we should reject the Generalised Theory outright. I first show that the Generalised Theory does not, as Garson asserts, imply that neurally selected disorders are not dysfunctional. Rather, it implies that they are both functional and dysfunctional. I argue on this basis that the Generalised Theory yields conflicting functional norms, and we that should reject it outright on these grounds.
A fine-grained data set and analysis of tangling in bug fixing commits
Authors: Herbold Steffen , Trautsch Alexander , Ledel Benjamin , Aghamohammadi Alireza , Ghaleb Taher A. , Chahal Kuljit Kaur , Bossenmaier Tim , Nagaria Bhaveet , Makedonski Philip , Ahmadabadi Matin Nili , Szabados Kristof , Spieker Helge , Madeja Matej , Hoy Nathaniel , Lenarduzzi Valentina , Wang Shangwen , Rodríguez-Pérez Gema , Colomo-Palacios Ricardo , Verdecchia Roberto , Singh Paramvir , Qin Yihao , Chakroborti Debasish , Davis Willard , Walunj Vijay , Wu Hongjun , Marcilio Diego , Alam Omar , Aldaeej Abdullah , Amit Idan , Turhan Burak , Eismann Simon , Wickert Anna-Katharina , Malavolta Ivano , Sulír Matúš , Fard Fatemeh , Henley Austin Z. , Kourtzanidis Stratos , Tuzun Eray , Treude Christoph , Shamasbi Simin Maleki , Pashchenko Ivan , Wyrich Marvin , Davis James , Serebrenik Alexander , Albrecht Ella , Aktas Ethem Utku , Strüber Daniel , Erbel Johannes
Published: July 2022

Context

Tangled commits are changes to software that address multiple concerns at once. For researchers interested in bugs, tangled commits mean that they actually study not only bugs, but also other concerns irrelevant for the study of bugs.

Objective

We want to improve our understanding of the prevalence of tangling and the types of changes that are tangled within bug fixing commits.

Methods

We use a crowd sourcing approach for manual labeling to validate which changes contribute to bug fixes for each line in bug fixing commits. Each line is labeled by four participants. If at least three participants agree on the same label, we have consensus.

Results

We estimate that between 17% and 32% of all changes in bug fixing commits modify the source code to fix the underlying problem. However, when we only consider changes to the production code files this ratio increases to 66% to 87%. We find that about 11% of lines are hard to label leading to active disagreements between participants. Due to confirmed tangling and the uncertainty in our data, we estimate that 3% to 47% of data is noisy without manual untangling, depending on the use case.

Conclusion

Tangled commits have a high prevalence in bug fixes and can lead to a large amount of noise in the data. Prior research indicates that this noise may alter results. As researchers, we should be skeptics and assume that unvalidated data is likely very noisy, until proven otherwise.
The Significance of R(BG and Anor) v Suffolk CC (2021): Meeting ‘Eligible Need[s]’ in Social Care?
Authors: Diver Alice , Schwehr Belinda
Published: July 2022

The reasoning in Suffolk offers a partial redefinition of the notions of wellbeing and individual need, via its detailed analysis of the legislative frameworks associated with the making - and interpretation - of needs assessments. The decision underscores the subjective nature of many such decisions which involve a conceptualisation of eligible needs, particularly where these are made against a backdrop of austerity-led funding cuts, and rapid changes to social care law and policy. In terms of promoting a juridical right to be adequately supported and/or cared for, the decision may yet prove to be very useful: it spotlights the impacts of resource-rationing and questions how a right to human dignity might best realised when finite, scarce resources are being further whittled-away. The right to respect for one’s home, family, and private life under Article 8 (ECHR) is not overlooked here. Though not explicitly highlighted within the judgment, there are clear reminders of the state’s duty to actively promote and protect family life, given the importance of our ‘domestic, family and personal relationships.’ The links between personal wellbeing and strong family ties are examined in several places as is human dignity via the right to individual autonomy. The decision - pending appeal - should be of interest to anyone working to promote the rights of familial carers and the cared-for or advocating the right to be afforded adequate levels of social care and state support.
Dirac-harmonic maps with potential
Authors: Branding Volker
Published: July 2022

We study the influence of an additional scalar potential on various geometric and analytic properties of Dirac-harmonic maps. We will create a mathematical wish list of the possible benefits from inducing the potential term and point out that the latter cannot be achieved in general. Finally, we focus on several potentials that are motivated from supersymmetric quantum field theory.
Possible biases in observation systems when applied across contexts: conceptualizing, operationalizing, and sequencing instructional quality
Authors: Luoto Jennifer , Klette Kirsti , Blikstad-Balas Marte
Published: July 2022

Capturing and measuring instructional patterns by using standardized observation manuals has become increasingly popular in classroom research. While researchers argue that a common vocabulary of teaching is necessary for the field of classroom research to move forward, instructional features vary across classrooms and contexts, which poses serious measuring challenges. In this article, we argue that potential biases embedded in observation systems have to be identified and addressed in order for interpretations of results across different classrooms and contexts to be valid and relevant. We identify three aspects of possible systematic biases (related to the grain size of conceptualization, operationalization, and sequencing of lessons) and how these may influence ratings of instructional quality when an established observation system (the Protocol for Language Arts Teaching Observations [PLATO]) is applied in the contexts of Nordic mathematics classrooms. We discuss implications of such possible biases and make suggestions for how they may be addressed.
Convergence structures and Hausdorff uo-Lebesgue topologies on vector lattice algebras of operators
Authors: Deng Yang , Jeu Marcel de
Published: July 2022

A vector sublattice of the order bounded operators on a Dedekind complete vector lattice can be supplied with the convergence structures of order convergence, strong order convergence, unbounded order convergence, strong unbounded order convergence, and, when applicable, convergence with respect to a Hausdorff uo-Lebesgue topology and strong convergence with respect to such a topology. We determine the general validity of the implications between these six convergences on the order bounded operator and on the orthomorphisms. Furthermore, the continuity of left and right multiplications with respect to these convergence structures on the order bounded operators, on the order continuous operators, and on the orthomorphisms is investigated, as is their simultaneous continuity. A number of results are included on the equality of adherences of vector sublattices of the order bounded operators and of the orthomorphisms with respect to these convergence structures. These are consequences of more general results for vector sublattices of arbitrary Dedekind complete vector lattices. The special attention that is paid to vector sublattices of the orthomorphisms is motivated by explaining their relevance for representation theory on vector lattices.
Antioxidant Activity and Profile of Phenolic Compounds in Selected Herbal Plants
Authors: Foss Kamil , Przybyłowicz Katarzyna E. , Sawicki Tomasz
Published: July 2022

Herbs are characterized by a high content of biologically active substances that positively affect human health. Phenolic compounds are one of the main bioactive compounds in these plants with highly beneficial properties (e.g., anti-carcinogenic, cardioprotective, immune system support and antibacterial). Therefore, this study aimed to determine the composition of free and bound phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity in 10 different herbs (bogbean leaves, sage leaves, whole Indian hemp, whole heartsease, whole horsetail, whole blessed thistle, whole thyme, chamomile flower, corn silk and pine buds). Phenolic compounds were analyzed using the HPLC-TOF-MS/MS method, total phenolic (TP) and flavonoid (TF) contents were measured using spectrophotometric methods, while antioxidant activity was determined by ABTS and DPPH assays. The highest content of free TP was found in thyme, while sage was characterized by the highest range of these compounds released from ester and glycosidic derivatives by hydrolysis. In turn, the highest values of TF in non-hydrolyzed extracts were found in Indian hemp. The highest values of TF, including bound phenols were observed in extracts obtained from sage leaves. In the analyzed herbs thirty-three phenolic compounds were found, constituting 16 phenolic acids, 9 flavonoids and eight stilbenes. Moreover, the analyzed compounds appeared in the bound form than in the free form. The antioxidant activity of herb extracts differed significantly across varieties (P < 0.05). The research showed that each tested herb possesses its own fingerprint of phenolic compounds and antioxidant properties.
The impact of risk aversion and ambiguity aversion on annuity and saving choices
Authors: André Eric , Bommier Antoine , Le Grand François
Published: July 2022

We analyze the impact of risk aversion and ambiguity aversion on the competing demands for annuities and bequeathable savings using a lifecycle recursive utility model. Our main finding is that risk aversion and ambiguity aversion have similar effects: an increase in either of the two reduces annuity demand and enhances bond holdings. We obtain this unequivocal result in the flexible intertemporal framework of Hayashi and Miao (2011) by assuming that the agent’s preferences are monotone with respect to first-order stochastic dominance. Our contribution is then twofold. First, from a decision-theoretic point of view, we show that monotonicity allows one to obtain clear-cut results about the respective roles of risk and ambiguity aversion. Second, from the insurance point of view, our result that the demand for annuities decreases with risk and ambiguity aversion stands in contrast with what is usually found with other insurance products. As such, it may help explain the low annuitization level observed in the data.
Human motion quality and accuracy measuring method for human–robot physical interactions
Authors: Tuli Tadele Belay , Manns Martin , Zeller Sebastian
Published: July 2022

In human–robot collaboration (HRC), human motion capture can be considered an enabler for switching autonomy between humans and robots to create efficient and safe operations. For this purpose, wearable motion tracking systems such as IMU and lighthouse-based systems have been used to transfer human joint motions into robot controller models. Due to reasons such as global positioning, drift, and occlusion, in some situations, e.g., HRC, both systems have been combined. However, it is still not clear if the motion quality (e.g., smoothness, naturalness, and spatial accuracy) is sufficient when the human operator is in the loop. This article presents a novel approach for measuring human motion quality and accuracy in HRC. The human motion capture has been implemented in a laboratory environment with a repetition of forty-cycle operations. Human motion, specifically of the wrist, is guided by the robot tool center point (TCP), which is predefined for generating circular and square motions. Compared to the robot TCP motion considered baseline, the hand wrist motion deviates up to 3 cm. The approach is valuable for understanding the quality of human motion behaviors and can be scaled up for various applications involving human and robot shared workplaces.
The human–technical–environmental systems framework for sustainability analysis
Authors: Selin Henrik , Selin Noelle E.
Published: July 2022

The field of sustainability science has grown significantly over the past two decades in terms of both conceptual development and empirical research. Systems-focused analysis is critical to building generalizable knowledge in the field, yet much relevant research does not take a systems view. Systems-oriented analytical frameworks can help researchers conceptualize and analyze sustainability-relevant systems, but existing frameworks may lack access or utility outside a particular research tradition. In this article, we outline the human–technical–environmental (HTE) framework, which provides analysts from different disciplinary backgrounds and fields of study a common way to advance systems-focused research on sustainability issues. We detail a step-by-step guide for the application of the HTE framework through a matrix-based approach for identifying system components, studying interactions among system components, and examining interventions targeting components and/or their interactions for the purpose of advancing sustainability. We demonstrate the applicability of the HTE framework and the matrix-based approach through an analysis of an empirical case of coal-fired power plants and mercury pollution, which is relevant to large-scale sustainability transitions. Based on this analysis, we identify specific insights related to the applicability of upstream and downstream leverage points, connections between energy markets and the use of pollution control technologies, and the importance of institutions fitting both biophysical dynamics and socioeconomic and political dynamics. Further application of the HTE framework and the identification of insights can help develop systems-oriented analysis, and inform societal efforts to advance sustainability, as well as contribute to the formulation of empirically grounded middle-range theories related to sustainability systems and sustainability transitions. We conclude with a discussion of areas for further development and application of the HTE framework.