bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suppressing the gauge problem in local hybrid functionals without a calibration function: The choice of local mixing function
Authors: Arbuznikov Alexei V. , Wodyński Artur , Kaupp Martin
Published: October 2024

Modern functionals based on the exact-exchange (EXX) energy density like local hybrid functionals (LHs) or range-separated LHs have recently received additional attention due to their advantages over established functionals when it comes to the local balance between self-interaction errors and static-correlation errors. A possible theoretical drawback of such functionals over the years has been the so-called gauge problem due to the inherent ambiguity of exchange-energy densities. Modern LHs like LH20t or more sophisticated functionals based thereon have been constructed using suitably optimized calibration functions (CFs) to minimize the mismatch of the semi-local and EXX energy densities. Here, we show that the unphysical contributions arising from the gauge problem may also be reduced significantly without a CF by tailoring the position-dependence of the EXX admixture (local mixing function, LMF) in a way to suppress spurious positive energy-density contributions locally in space. This is achieved by building the so-called x-LMFs upon the ratio between EXX and semi-local exchange-energy densities. The resulting LH24x functional provides similar accuracy, e.g., for the GMTKN55 test suite, as LH20t, but without introduction of a CF! We provide detailed comparative analyses of integrated energies and spatially resolved energy densities. The good performances of LHs for chemically relevant energy differences are to some extent due to the core nature of unphysical artifacts that cancel out efficiently.
Corymbia calophylla (Marri) (K. D. Hill & L. A. S. Johnson) (Myrtaceae) is a major resource for native bees in the southwest western Australian biodiversity hotspot
Authors: Prendergast Kit S. , Willers Nicole
Published: October 2024

Context A theoretical paradigm proposes that certain species can serve as ‘keystone species’ or ‘magnets’, being particularly important for biodiversity. Aims We present evidence that in the context of supporting Indigenous native bees, this is indeed the case for the tree Corymbia calophylla (Marri), a Myrtaceae endemic to southwest Western Australia. Methods To assess the role of C. calophylla as a resource for native bees, we collated the number of species recorded from surveys across 16 sites, and specimens lodged in the WA Museum. Its capacity to support wild bees was assessed from abundance of bees visiting this species (total and relative to other plants visited) from 24 sites. Key results Corymbia calophylla was visited by 81 species of native bees, and is often the main, or only, plant species visited. It blooms at a crucial time when most species have finished flowering at the end of summer. Conclusions We argue that C. calophylla represents a crucial landscape resource for native bees. Implications Protection and management of C. calophylla is likely to be important for preservation of native bee biodiversity.
Quantitative omnigenic model discovers interpretable genome-wide associations
Authors: Ružičková Natália , Hledík Michal , Tkačik Gašper
Published: October 2024

As their statistical power grows, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified an increasing number of loci underlying quantitative traits of interest. These loci are scattered throughout the genome and are individually responsible only for small fractions of the total heritable trait variance. The recently proposed omnigenic model provides a conceptual framework to explain these observations by postulating that numerous distant loci contribute to each complex trait via effect propagation through intracellular regulatory networks. We formalize this conceptual framework by proposing the “quantitative omnigenic model” (QOM), a statistical model that combines prior knowledge of the regulatory network topology with genomic data. By applying our model to gene expression traits in yeast, we demonstrate that QOM achieves similar gene expression prediction performance to traditional GWAS with hundreds of times less parameters, while simultaneously extracting candidate causal and quantitative chains of effect propagation through the regulatory network for every individual gene. We estimate the fraction of heritable trait variance in
cis-
and in
trans-
, break the latter down by effect propagation order, assess the
trans-
variance not attributable to transcriptional regulation, and show that QOM correctly accounts for the low-dimensional structure of gene expression covariance. We furthermore demonstrate the relevance of QOM for systems biology, by employing it as a statistical test for the quality of regulatory network reconstructions, and linking it to the propagation of nontranscriptional (including environmental) effects.
Endosomal membrane budding patterns in plants
Authors: Weiner Ethan , Berryman Elizabeth , Frey Felix , Solís Ariadna González , Leier André , Lago Tatiana Marquez , Šarić Anđela , Otegui Marisa S.
Published: October 2024

Multivesicular endosomes (MVEs) sequester membrane proteins destined for degradation within intralumenal vesicles (ILVs), a process mediated by the membrane-remodeling action of Endosomal Sorting Complex Required for Transport (ESCRT) proteins. In
Arabidopsis
, endosomal membrane constriction and scission are uncoupled, resulting in the formation of extensive concatenated ILV networks and enhancing cargo sequestration efficiency. Here, we used a combination of electron tomography, computer simulations, and mathematical modeling to address the questions of when concatenated ILV networks evolved in plants and what drives their formation. Through morphometric analyses of tomographic reconstructions of endosomes across yeast, algae, and various land plants, we have found that ILV concatenation is widespread within plant species, but only prevalent in seed plants, especially in flowering plants. Multiple budding sites that require the formation of pores in the limiting membrane were only identified in hornworts and seed plants, suggesting that this mechanism has evolved independently in both plant lineages. To identify the conditions under which these multiple budding sites can arise, we used particle-based molecular dynamics simulations and found that changes in ESCRT filament properties, such as filament curvature and membrane binding energy, can generate the membrane shapes observed in multiple budding sites. To understand the relationship between membrane budding activity and ILV network topology, we performed computational simulations and identified a set of membrane remodeling parameters that can recapitulate our tomographic datasets.
Structure and function ofMycobacterium tuberculosisEfpA as a lipid transporter and its inhibition by BRD-8000.3
Authors: Li Delin , Zhang Xiaokang , Yao Yuanhang , Sun Xue , Sun Junqing , Ma Xiaomin , Yuan Kai , Bai Guijie , Pang Xuefei , Hua Rongmao , Guo Tianling , Mi Yuqian , Wu Lingzhi , Zhang Jie , Wu Yan , Liu Yingxia , Wang Peiyi , Wong Catherine C. L. , Chen Xiao-wei , Xiao Haixia , Gao George Fu , Gao Feng
Published: October 2024

EfpA, the first major facilitator superfamily (MFS) protein identified inMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb), is an essential efflux pump implicated in resistance to multiple drugs. EfpA-inhibitors have been developed to kill drug-tolerant Mtb. However, the biological function of EfpA has not yet been elucidated. Here, we present the cryo-EM structures of EfpA complexed with lipids or the inhibitor BRD-8000.3 at resolutions of 2.9 Å and 3.4 Å, respectively. Unexpectedly, EfpA forms an antiparallel dimer. Functional studies reveal that EfpA is a lipid transporter and BRD-8000.3 inhibits its lipid transport activity. Intriguingly, the mutation V319F, known to confer resistance to BRD-8000.3, alters the expression level and oligomeric state of EfpA. Based on our results and the observation of other antiparallel dimers in the MFS family, we propose an antiparallel-function model of EfpA. Collectively, our work provides structural and functional insights into EfpA’s role in lipid transport and drug resistance, which would accelerate the development of antibiotics against this promising drug target.
FlaG competes with FliS–flagellin complexes for access to FlhA in the flagellar T3SS to control
Campylobacter jejuni
filament length
Authors: Waller Alexis A. , Ribardo Deborah A. , Hendrixson David R.
Published: October 2024

Bacteria power rotation of an extracellular flagellar filament for swimming motility. Thousands of flagellin subunits compose the flagellar filament, which extends several microns from the bacterial surface. It is unclear whether bacteria actively control filament length. Many polarly flagellated bacteria produce shorter flagellar filaments than peritrichous bacteria, and FlaG has been reported to limit flagellar filament length in polar flagellates. However, a mechanism for how FlaG may function is unknown. We observed that deletion of
flaG
in the polarly flagellated pathogens
Vibrio cholerae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, and
Campylobacter jejuni
caused extension of flagellar filaments to lengths comparable to peritrichous bacteria. Using
C. jejuni
as a model to understand how FlaG controls flagellar filament length, we found that FlaG and FliS chaperone–flagellin complexes antagonize each other for interactions with FlhA in the flagellar type III secretion system (fT3SS) export gate. FlaG interacted with an understudied region of FlhA, and this interaction appeared to be enhanced in Δ
fliS
and FlhA FliS-binding mutants. Our data support that FlaG evolved in polarly flagellated bacteria as an antagonist to interfere with the ability of FliS to interact with and deliver flagellins to FlhA in the fT3SS export gate to control flagellar filament length so that these bacteria produce relatively shorter flagella than peritrichous counterparts. This mechanism is similar to how some gatekeepers in injectisome T3SSs prevent chaperones from delivering effector proteins until completion of the T3SS and host contact occurs. Thus, flagellar and injectisome T3SSs have convergently evolved protein antagonists to negatively impact respective T3SSs to secrete their major terminal substrates.
Type VI secretion systems promote intraspecific competition and host interactions in a bee gut symbiont
Authors: Motta Erick V. S. , Lariviere Patrick J. , Jones Korin R. , Song Yulin , Moran Nancy A.
Published: October 2024

The Type VI Secretion System (T6SS) is a sophisticated mechanism utilized by gram-negative bacteria to deliver toxic effector proteins into target cells, influencing microbial community dynamics and host interactions. In this study, we investigated the role of T6SSs in
Snodgrassella alvi
wkB2, a core bacterial symbiont of the honey bee gut microbiota. We generated single- and double-knockout mutants targeting essential genes (
tssD
and
tssE
) in both T6SS-1 and T6SS-2 and assessed their colonization and competition capabilities in vivo. Our results indicate that T6SSs are nonessential for colonization of the bee gut, although T6SS-2 mutant strains exhibited significantly lower colonization levels compared to the wild-type (WT) strain. Further, a defined community experiment showed that
S. alvi
wkB2 T6SSs do not significantly impact interspecific competition among core gut bacteria. However, cocolonization experiments with closely related
S. alvi
strains demonstrated that T6SS-1 plays a role in mediating intraspecific competition. Transcriptomic analysis of bee guts monocolonized by WT or T6SS mutants revealed differential expression of host immunity-related genes relative to microbiota-deprived bees, such as upregulation of the antimicrobial peptide apidaecin in the presence of WT
S. alvi
and the antimicrobial peptide defensin in the presence of T6SS-2 mutant
S. alvi
, suggesting that T6SSs contribute to shaping host immune responses. These findings provide insight into the ecological roles of T6SSs in the honey bee gut microbiota, emphasizing their importance in maintaining competitive dynamics and influencing host–bacterial interactions.
A myeloid differentiation–like protein in partnership with Toll5 from the pest insect
Spodoptera litura
senses baculovirus infection
Authors: Zhang Ruonan , Zhong Jielai , Li Yanjun , Li Mengge , Zhang Jie , Hu Qihao , Wen Liang , Xu Xiaoxia , Jin Fengliang , Yang Wanying , Lu Yuzhen , Strand Michael R. , Yu Xiao-Qiang
Published: October 2024

Many types of viruses infect insects and other arthropods. In contrast, little is known about how arthropods sense viruses, although several innate immune pathways including Toll have antiviral functions. Large DNA viruses in the family
Baculoviridae
are used to control a number of pest insects. Here, we studied
Spodoptera litura
and Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) to test the hypothesis that one or more myeloid differentiation–like (ML) proteins and Toll family members sense baculoviruses. We identified 11 ML and 12 Toll genes in the
S. litura
genome. A series of experiments indicated that
S. litura
ML protein 11 (SlML-11) binds the budded form of AcMNPV and partners with
S. litura
Toll5 (SlToll5). SlML-11 also bound sphingomyelin (SPM), which is a component of the virion envelope. Disabling SlML-11 and SlToll5 increased susceptibility to infection, while priming larvae with SPM reduced susceptibility as measured by increased survival to the adult stage and clearance of AcMNPV from individuals that emerged as adults. We conclude that SPM is a pathogen-associated molecular pattern molecule while SlML-11 and SlToll5 interact to function as a pattern recognition receptor that senses AcMNPV.
Voltage-induced rearrangement in silver nanoparticles spatial distribution produced by EAFD method and its LSPR optimization
Authors: Amirdadi Ehsan , Masheli Milad Habibi , Mostafavi Amjad Jafar
Published: October 2024

This paper presents a voltage-induced and thermal annealing rearrangement (VITAR) method based on modified electric field assisted film dissolution method as a flexible and powerful tool for manipulating nanoparticles spatial distribution based on drift and diffusion mechanisms that occur due to external DC voltage and thermal annealing processes. Different samples with various arrangements of external DC voltage and thermal annealing processes have been produced. The extinction and attenuated total reflection (ATR) spectra, as well as atomic force microscope (AFM) images, have been employed to investigate their optical and morphological properties. Four cases with arrangements of DV-Anl, DV-Anl-DV, DV-Anl-IV, and DV-IV-Anl have been studied. The AFM images show that by applying secondary voltage (direct or inverse voltage), it is possible to drift nanoparticles and change its morphology (size and shape) as well as surface and volume distributions. As a result, by applying a secondary direct voltage (in the DV-Anl-DV case), the surface density of nanoparticles decreases due to direct drift force. It is notable that in this case, the extinction peak and ATR depth have not significantly changed. By applying a secondary inverse voltage (in the DV-Anl-IV, and DV-IV-Anl cases), an increase in the surface density of the nanoparticles has been observed. Also, the extinction peak has increased, and the ATR depth has decreased in the DV-Anl-IV case, but in the DV-IV-Anl case, due to the uniform size of surface nanoparticles, the resonance power has shown a significant increase in both extinction and ATR spectra compared to other cases. The resulting changes in extinction and ATR spectra show that by using the VITAR process, the surface structure, morphology and its optical properties can be optimized and this method provides a great opportunity to enhance Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance effects, which can be employed in nano-optical devices.
Research on filling missing GNSS precipitable water vapor time series data using the PSORF model combined with reanalysis datasets
Authors: Wang Zhihao , Chai Hongzhou , Zheng Naiquan , Ming Lulu , Chen Peng
Published: October 2024

The inversion of precipitable water vapor (PWV) using the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) has advantages such as all-weather observation, high precision, low cost, and high temporal resolution. Currently, long-term GNSS-PWV data has become an important data source for studying climate change. However, due to factors such as equipment failures, observation technology limitations, and estimation model errors, missing data and outliers often occur in real-time or post-processed PWV time series data. Furthermore, the main sources of GNSS-PWV errors are influenced by the atmospheric weighted mean temperature and surface meteorological data (pressure and temperature). The results indicate that the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Reanalysis v5 (ERA5) dataset exhibits high accuracy in the Chinese region, making it suitable for GNSS-PWV inversion. By utilizing ERA5 meteorological data to calculate hourly GNSS-PWV and conducting accuracy assessments, it is demonstrated that the PWV inverted based on GNSS and ERA5 meteorological parameters possesses high precision. Based on this, this study selects GNSS stations from the Crustal Movement Observation Network of China where the proportion of missing measured data is less than 8%. By combining ERA5, random forest (RF), and particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithms, a new model called PSORF is proposed to fill in missing values in GNSS-PWV time series data. The research findings reveal that the R
2 and root mean square error (RMSE) of PSORF-PWV are 0.98 and 2.16 mm, respectively. Additionally, GNSS stations with more than 8% missing measured data are utilized to validate the accuracy of the PSORF model. A comparative analysis is conducted between the results obtained through the PSORF model and the ERA5-PWV acquired via traditional interpolation methods. The MAE and RMSE of PSORF-PWV are reduced by 21% and 17%, respectively, indicating that the PSORF model excels in filling missing data and effectively enhances the accuracy and reliability of PWV time series analysis. This study not only presents an effective approach for processing missing PWV data but also evaluates the applicability and accuracy of the ERA5 dataset in PWV inversion. This provides crucial technical support and data security for climate change research, short-term humidity field forecasting, and studies in related fields.
Introducing modern particle detectors in the classroom: a slice-by-slice overview
Authors: Duggan Ruadh , Chatzidaki Panagiota , Boselli Margherita , Dahlkemper Merten Nikolay , Durey Guillaume , Herff Niklas , Kranjc Horvat Anja , Scheerer Gernot Werner , Schmeling Sascha , Thill Patrick Georges , Vujanovic Milena , Wiener Jeff , Woithe Julia , Zoechling Sarah
Published: October 2024

This paper aims to provide a basis for teachers interested in bringing modern particle detectors into their classrooms. In particular, it gives an overview of the basic principles of modern particle detectors, linking them to concepts that are already a part of the curriculum. In addition, it explains the essential detector components present in all detector systems, and how the information they provide leads to particle identification. By highlighting relevant classroom resources, this paper serves as a valuable guide for teachers seeking to include modern particle physics in their teaching, and to set it within interesting and relevant contexts.
Minimal lateral damage fabrication of high-temperature superconducting nanowires via focused helium ion beam irradiation
Authors: Li Zongpei , Ma Huiqin , Huang Jianwen , Liu Yuqing , Shao Mingxin , Luo Zhengyang , Du Xinchuan , Wu Chunyang , Li Nannan , Wang Hanbin , Li Peng
Published: October 2024

Low-temperature superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors have become a key infrared photon counting technology in communication and astronomy applications. However, the constrained physical space of devices demands high-performance superconducting detectors capable of operation at higher temperatures. To date, high-temperature superconductor nanowires still face seriously uneven lateral damage in the ion etching process during fabrication. In this work, we report a promising fabrication method for high-temperature superconducting YBa2Cu3O7−x
(YBCO) nanowires, using a focused helium ion beam to minimize the lateral damage of the cut. Based on simulations, we designed tangent circles and adjacent isosceles triangles to replace lines in cutting nanowires to reduce the superimposed damage by He+ ions. The lateral damage of a single helium ion cut has been reduced with a decrease in superimposed damage width from 58.8 nm to 29.7 nm. This work provides a platform for boosting YBCO nanowires to achieve single photon detection.
Investigation of internal thermal distribution in inverted perovskite solar cell and improvement of its heat dissipation performance
Authors: Liu Yang , Deng Yuncheng , Chen Yumei , Chen Banghui , Guo Pan , Chen Lijia , Zhang Qiaoming
Published: October 2024

COMSOL Multiphysics software was used to construct a numerical opto-electro-thermal coupling model to investigate the mechanisms of internal heat generation, conduction, and dissipation in inverted (p-i-n architecture) perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The research results indicate that Joule heating and Shockley-Read-Hall (SRH) recombination are the primary sources of heat, leading to significant accumulation of heat at the interfaces between the perovskite and the electron transport layer (ETL), as well as between the ETL and the electrode. This concentration of heat not only affects the performance of the device but also poses challenges for overall thermal management. Therefore, we compared four different top electrode materials (Ag, Cu, Al, and reduced graphene oxide) to assess their performance in terms of heat dissipation efficiency. The results showed that reduced graphene oxide (RGO) performed exceptionally well in heat dissipation efficiency, primarily due to its high thermal conductivity, which enables it to effectively reduce heat accumulation at the interfaces, thereby improving performance of PSCs. This finding provides important material selection criteria for optimizing the thermal management of PSCs.
Secure authentication and encryption via diffraction imaging-based encoding and vector decomposition
Authors: Zhang Zhenyu , Wang Sheng , Zhou Shangying , Xu Bijun , Wang Xiaogang
Published: October 2024

Traditional optical encryption systems have security risks due to their linearity and usually encounter problems such as the heavy burden of key transmission and storage. This paper proposes a novel security-enhanced optical image authentication and encryption framework that combines diffractive imaging-based encryption with the vector decomposition algorithm (VDA). Chaotic random phase masks (CRPMs) are used to encrypt data for authentication via VDA, and a pair of complementary binary matrix keys are utilized to extract information from the encrypted data to generate ciphertext. During the authentication and decryption processes, a sparse reference image is reconstructed from the ciphertext for verification. If the authentication is successful, image decryption can be executed using a key-assisted phase retrieval algorithm. The employment of nonlinear VDA, an additional layer of authentication, and the use of CRPMs and binary matrix keys enhance security and address key burden concerns. Simulation results demonstrate the feasibility, effectiveness, and security of the scheme.
Effect of Einasto spike on the gravitationally decoupled self-gravitating dark matter halos
Authors: Yousaf Z , Ganesan T , Almutairi Bander , Bhatti M Z , Khan S
Published: October 2024

In this work, we consider the possibility of constructing gravitationally bound, charged dark matter halos motivated by Einasto density model. This model generalizes the concept of charged, non-commutative mini-compact objects by including dark matter as its primary component through the principles of the minimal geometric deformation strategy. We point out that the coupling of the non-commutativity inspired Einasto spike density model with a non-isotropic fluid, within the context of gravitational decoupling allows the formation of different minimally deformed dark matter halos, corresponding to each value of the deformation parameter. We assume the Tolman-Kuchowicz cosmological model as a seed metric within the geometric deformation scheme to initially generate an electrically charged isotropic solution. Subsequently, we employ a density-like constraint to produce a second anisotropic charged dark matter stellar model via the Einasto density profile. A complete graphical analysis of the structural variables and stability of both models indicate that, for the considered choice of parameters, both cosmological models are well-behaved, exhibiting expected physical behavior.
Preparation of bimetallic calcium chromatite nanocomposite using Stevia rebaudiana leaf extract for inducing apoptosis in human cancer cell lines
Authors: Alanazi Sitah Fahad , Sivanandan Chithra
Published: October 2024

Despite the widespread industrial use of chromium-based compounds, there are concerns regarding their toxicity in biomedical applications. Herein, bimetallic calcium chromatite nanocomposite (CC) was prepared through green synthesis using Stevia rebaudiana leaf extract. A porous nanorod of CC was obtained through calcinations at 800 °C. The formation of CC was confirmed by SEM (scanning electron microscopy), EDAX (Energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy), HRTEM (High-resolution transmission electron microscopy), TGA (Thermal gravimetric analysis), and BET (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller). The cytotoxicity of the CC was evaluated by the MTT method against cancer lines (HeLa, U87, A549) and primary cell line (HUVEC). The IC50 value of CC against cancer cell lines was lower than the primary cell lines. The calculated specificity index was greater than one, indicating that this CC might target cancer cells without the use of a targeting moiety. Gene expression studies revealed that CC upregulated the proapoptotic gene, BAX and downregulated the anti-apoptotic gene, Bcl-2, to induce apoptosis. The KDR and VEGF genes responsible for angiogenesis were down-regulated, indicating that CC decreases angiogenesis to promote apoptosis. The findings suggest CC prepared using phytoextract could be considered an adjuvant cancer therapy treatment.
A Lightweight, Polarization-Camera Equipped Sensor Rig for the Development of Autonomous Surface Vehicles
Authors: Martens Emil , Førland Brekke Edmund , Mester Rudolf , Stahl Annette
Published: October 2024

Situational Awareness (SITAW) of Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASV) is critical for safe and efficient maritime operations, enabling these vehicles to understand their environment better and make informed decisions. High-quality data sets from relevant maritime environments are needed to advance the development of SITAW, as it is both the backbone of any learning-based method and the development and validation of classical methods. Research vessels such as the full-scale ferry milliAmpere2 provide such data, but there tends to be a considerable labor cost associated with their operation. With this in mind, we have developed a portable sensor rig that makes collecting sensor data significantly easier.

The sensor rig is designed for easy transport and operation by a single individual. It can also be temporarily attached to an existing vessel, making it versatile for a wide range of data collection scenarios. The sensor rig is equipped with a Jetson Orin AGX computer, two dual-band GNSS receivers, a high-quality IMU, and two color polarization cameras. Accurate synchronization of all sensors and the computer to UTC is achieved using a microcontroller for triggering and a custom Pulse Per Second (PPS)-enabled Linux kernel on the Jetson. The sensor rig is controlled and monitored by connecting a smartphone to its hosted web app, which provides a live stream from the cameras and information about the sensors.

We present a new dataset from the river Nidelva in Trondheim, Norway, to demonstrate the sensor rig’s potential and the benefit of color polarization cameras in the maritime domain. We show how the data from color polarization cameras can be used directly to make the water surface more visibly distinct and remove reflections and sun glare. This new data set consists of synchronized stereo color polarization video, raw IMU data, and raw GNSS data, and it is made publically available to the research community.
Dynamic Scene Representation for Docking in Urban Waters Using a Stereo Camera
Authors: Anthonsen Nygård Trym , Førland Brekke Edmund , Mester Rudolf , Stahl Annette
Published: October 2024

To navigate and dock safely in urban waters, an autonomous ferry must assess its safe navigation paths by identifying navigable free space and potential obstacles. A deep understanding of its surroundings is crucial for situational awareness. Knowing which objects are static and dynamic is an indispensable ingredient for path planning algorithms and collision avoidance systems, and is especially useful for docking operations, as moving obstacles can interfere with the optimal path to the dock. To handle all types of obstacles, we present a novel dynamic scene representation for docking in urban waters using a short baseline stereo camera. Obstacles protruding from the water surface are represented with vertically oriented rectangles, known as stixels. The stixels are tracked over consecutive frames with dense optical flow. Together with stereo correspondences, their 3D motion is estimated. Stixels representing the same object are grouped together into line segments which are classified as either dynamic or static based on the motion of its associated stixels. Our dynamic representation presents objects in the 3D camera coordinate system as a bird’s eye view map. Additionally, stereo depth uncertainty can significantly impact depth estimates and is considered using a Kalman filter, providing smooth position and velocity estimates. We test our dynamic scene representation on a real docking scenario recorded with an autonomous ferry using a stereo camera. We evaluate the accuracy of the reconstructed 3D scene points and the velocity estimates of the dynamic objects using LiDAR and GNSS.
Touchpoints and systems for unmanned autonomous urban ferry operation
Authors: Petermann Felix-Marcel , Andreas Alsos Ole , Veitch Erik , Eide Egil , Breivik Morten
Published: October 2024

Currently, both experimental and commercial autonomous ferry services have a safety operator onboard who monitors the ferry systems, takes care of the passengers’ safety, and gives them the necessary information. Service touchpoints are all the interaction points between the autonomous ferry and the passengers throughout the passenger journey, from planning the trip to reaching their destination. To reach a state where the ferry service can be unmanned, by moving the safety operator into a remote operation centre, several additional systems and service touchpoints are needed to support the passengers’ safety and provide them with necessary information.

This article discusses (1) the service touchpoints and systems needed for an autonomous urban ferry service, (2) how these touchpoints provide the passengers with the necessary information to foster trust and perceived safety, and (3) shows some examples and design suggestions for the experimental autonomous urban ferry milliAmpere2.

The service touchpoints presented are (1) a ticket system, (2) an automatic ferry ordering system for on-demand operation, (3) an automatic passenger handling system for safe boarding of the ferry, (4) a passenger information system to provide visual and audio feedback about the ferry service, and (5) a passenger-operator communication system in case contact between the ferry and the remote operation centre need to be established.
Consideration of Simulation Scenarios for Safety Assessment of Heading, Speed and Track Control Function
Authors: Ito Makoto , Takashina Junshi , Yamada Tomoaki , Miyoshi Shintaro , Takei Natsuo
Published: October 2024

MASS (Maritime Autonomous Surface Ship) has been under active development in recent years. Especially, a great deal of attention has been paid to the development of the system which automates the navigation task of a ship including situation awareness function, collision and grounding avoidance function and heading, speed and track control function. When considering a MASS for coastal or open sea voyages, verifying the heading, speed and track control function presents a significant challenge during harbour manoeuvring, because of including automatic berthing and unberthing. Thus, it is essential to establish a verification method through simulation technique. While numerous studies have been conducted to develop control algorithms, few have focused on safety assessment, especially in the creation of simulation scenarios. Therefore, this study proposes a method of creating simulation scenarios to assess the safety of heading, speed and track control function for MASS in harbour manoeuvring. There are two main issues. The first is how to set up the passage plan to be included in the scenario, and the second is how to provide environment conditions. To solve the initial issue, a classification of navigational modes is defined, and the possible manoeuvring patterns that can be performed in each mode are organised. To solve the second issue, the method of assigning wind speed and direction to the scenario is examined based on regulations and observational data. Finally, an illustrative scenario is presented to demonstrate the proposed method.
Increasing maritime cybersecurity awareness through game-based learning
Authors: Præstiin Jepsen Louise , Håkon Meland Per , Kaloudi Nektaria
Published: October 2024

Increased connectivity, digitalization and emerging autonomous operations within the maritime sector are paving the road for new cybersecurity risks. Such risks are not just a technical concern, as effective awareness and training programs play an important role in increasing the knowledge of relevant cyberattacks and defences, thereby improving security practices among stakeholders. Serious games have emerged as an engaging method to train individuals, effectively communicate an understanding of emerging cybersecurity threats and promote cybersecurity culture and hygiene. This paper delves into the development process of an asymmetrical strategy game for the maritime sector. The game uses a red versus blue paradigm to educate players about critical assets of maritime operations and how they can be exploited. The novelty of this work has been to design a gameplay based on actual incidents that for instance shipping companies have been facing up until today and likely future events. We employ a design science research methodology to ensure problem relevance and utility for practitioners. The game has been designed towards a demography of students from maritime education and training institutions and professionals working in the maritime sector but should be appealing to others looking to expand their comprehension of the maritime cybersecurity intricacies as well. The game serves as a pedagogical learning tool for elevating cybersecurity awareness, preparedness and response in the maritime digitalization sphere.
Properties of the Octonion Linear Canonical Transform
Authors: Jiang Nan , Feng Qiang , Yang Xi
Published: October 2024

The linear canonical transform is a widely utilized integral transform in the field of signal analysis, characterized by three independent parameters. It not only facilitates rotation of the time-frequency plane but also enables expansion and contraction of the frequency domain, thereby playing a crucial role in handling non-stationary signals. In recent years, the linear canonical transform has been extended to octonion domains, which possess a more generalized form and offer greater research potential. This extension effectively harnesses the processing capabilities of the linear canonical transform for non-stationary signals in high-dimensional spaces. In this paper, we explore the definition and the conjugacy of the left side octonion linear canonical transform. Moreover, we thoroughly examine the differential properties of octonion linear canonical transform. The study of these properties is helpful for understanding the characteristics and applications of geometric transformations as well as expanding the scope of mathematical theory and practical applications.
Equilibrium-Adjustment
Authors: Kerr Orin
Published: October 2024

Responding to the digital revolution requires a theory of how to interpret the Fourth Amendment in light of technological change. Courts should adopt the theory of equilibrium-adjustment. Under this approach, courts respond to technological change by engaging in course correction. When technology dramatically alters the impact of preexisting rules, courts should adjust the rule to restore the function of prior rules. Equilibrium-adjustment recognizes the technological contingency of search-and-seizure rules, and it ensures the role of the Fourth Amendment over time. This is not just a theory but existing practice: a close look at the Supreme Court’s cases in areas such as the automobile, the telephone, and sense-enhancing devices all show a commitment to equilibrium-adjustment. Equilibrium-adjustment is not just established by practice; it is also consistent with originalism, the dominant theory of constitutional interpretation at the Supreme Court.
The Digital Fourth Amendment
Authors: Kerr Orin
Published: October 2024

The Supreme Court’s recent cases have already shown the way toward the new Digital Fourth Amendment. First, in Riley v. California (2014), the Supreme Court held that the “search incident to arrest” doctrine does not apply to searching a cell phone. Under Riley, digital is different. The rules that traditionally apply to physical property do not necessarily apply to digital evidence. Instead, each rule has to rest on its own bottom: courts must reassess whether the values and principles of the Fourth Amendment are best reached by retaining or departing from prior law. In Carpenter v. United States (2018), the Supreme Court expanded on this methodology, holding that cell-site location records kept by cell phone providers are protected by the Fourth Amendment in light of the “seismic shifts” of network technology. The combination of Riley and Carpenter shows that the switch to the Digital Fourth Amendment is already on its way. Lower courts must recognize the methodology and develop a comprehensive Digital Fourth Amendment that adapts the Fourth Amendment to the digital age.
Enter the Internet
Authors: Kerr Orin
Published: October 2024

Applying the Fourth Amendment to the Internet requires a general theory of how to apply the Fourth Amendment to networks. This chapter offers a first step in developing a way to translate between physical world location and network information. By understanding networks as ways of outsourcing physical travel, we can understand network data as the network equivalent of physical world information. This approach leads to important first steps in applying the Fourth Amendment to the Internet. The contents of communications should be presumptively protected, as they are the network equivalent of information about protected spaces like the inside of a home. In contrast, noncontent information should be presumptively unprotected, as it is the network equivalent of unprotected information from outside space. This is the rule that the Supreme Court has adopted for earlier networks such as the postal network and the telephone network, and lower courts have so far largely drawn the same line for Internet information. This framework answers many questions about how to apply the Fourth Amendment to the Internet, subject to an important objection: what if the amount of information that digital networks create and keep makes the claimed equivalence between physical and network spaces an illusion?
Surveillance Big and Small
Authors: Kerr Orin
Published: October 2024

Applying the Fourth Amendment to the Internet requires taking a position on whether the Fourth Amendment recognizes a mosaic theory. Under the mosaic theory, introduced by a federal appellate court ruling in 2010, the scale of surveillance can determine whether the surveillance is a search. Surveillance that occurs on a small scale is not a search, but if enough of it occurs, then under the mosaic theory, a search is deemed to have occurred (as a “mosaic” of the person is drawn). Whether to adopt the mosaic theory is up in the air: some lower courts have adopted it, and other lower courts have rejected it. But the question is central in an environment of data and now artificial intelligence. When the Supreme Court reaches the question, it should reject the mosaic theory. The mosaic theory fails because there is no coherent way to answer the core question: How much surveillance is enough? Collecting information in steps does not allow a clear line to be drawn. This reality should lead the Supreme Court to reject the mosaic approach.
Introduction
Authors: Fischer Bob
Published: October 2024

This chapter introduces the problem of interspecies welfare comparisons and discusses its relevance to a wide variety of important practical problems. It lists several assumptions that the authors make throughout the book, including the view that welfare is measurable on a ratio scale; that equal quantities of welfare count equally, regardless of kind or origin; that welfare is determined by the balance of positive and negative valenced experiences; and that a single theory of welfare applies to all welfare subjects. The chapter then clarifies which of these assumptions are essential and which aren’t. It concludes with an overview of the rest of the book.
Defining Welfare Ranges
Authors: Fischer Bob , Timmerman Travis
Published: October 2024

The book’s main objective is to provide a method for estimating differences in animals’ welfare ranges. This chapter distinguishes the concept of welfare ranges from various others: welfare subjecthood, realized welfare, capacity for welfare, welfare profiles, moral status, and moral weight. Then, after characterizing a welfare range as the difference between the best and worst welfare states that an animal can realize, it explores the modal force of “can” in that characterization, ultimately giving an account in terms of the welfare states that are realizable relative to an evidential base. It concludes by illustrating one practical application of the concept.
Using Neuron Counts to Estimate Welfare Ranges
Authors: Shriver Adam
Published: October 2024

Academic research has explored the relationship between the number of neurons different organisms possess and the cognitive abilities of those organisms. Several authors have endorsed using neuron counts as a rough proxy that can help determine moral priorities. In this chapter, I examine the reasoning in favor of this view and argue that neuron counts should not be used as a sole proxy for welfare ranges. Because explicit arguments explaining the relevance of neuron counts for moral evaluating are scarce, I first put forward the most plausible possible arguments for inferring that welfare ranges might depend on the raw number of neurons, or other related proxies. I argue that no single proxy captures what authors seem most interested in (information-processing capacity) and further present empirical evidence and conceptual arguments that raise serious doubts about the plausibility that welfare ranges directly correlate with measures of neuron counts. However, I contend that neuron counts can still be useful as one component in a model that estimates welfare ranges.
A Methodology for Estimating Differences in Welfare Ranges
Authors: Fischer Bob , Gaffney Leigh , Lavery Michelle , Schiestl Martina , Trevarthen Anna , Duffy Laura , Schnell Alexandra , Shriver Adam , Miller Rachael , Schukraft Jason
Published: October 2024

Given that there are no direct interspecies measures of the intensity of valenced experiences, we outline a methodology for estimating welfare ranges that does not rely on such direct measures. This methodology has four steps: First, specify the determinants of welfare. Second, identify measurable proxies for variation in the ability to realize the determinants of welfare. Third, survey the empirical literature for evidence about these proxies. Fourth, aggregate the results of that literature review to generate welfare range estimates. We then review some of the limitations of this approach, which include the problem of missing data, the difficulty of navigating phylogenetic distance, and puzzles about scoring and aggregating the proxies.
Some Tentative Welfare Range Estimates
Authors: Duffy Laura , Barrett Meghan , Gaffney Leigh , Lavery Michelle , Miller Rachael , Trevarthen Anna , Schiestl Martina , Schnell Alexandra , Shriver Adam , Fischer Bob
Published: October 2024

This chapter provides some tentative welfare range estimates, where a welfare range is understood as the difference between the most intense positively valenced experience and the most intense negatively valenced experience available to members of a species. These estimates are conditional on hedonism, which means that they don’t reflect the implications of uncertainty about the correct theory of welfare, and they are intended as a proof of concept, so they do not factor in every possible complexity even given hedonism. The chapter’s main aim is to explain a method we can use to generate estimates. Along the way, we provide an overview of the proxies we used for differences in the possible intensities of valenced states across species and a summary of the literature reviews about those proxies for several farmed species. Finally, we explain how those reviews can be converted into specific estimates.
Objections, Recommendations, and Conclusions
Authors: Fischer Bob , Barrett Meghan , Duffy Laura , Gaffney Leigh , Lavery Michelle , Miller Rachael , Schiestl Martina , Schnell Alexandra , Shriver Adam , Timmerman Travis , Trevarthen Anna
Published: October 2024

This chapter does four things. First, it considers several questions about the proposed methodology. Second, it answers several objections to the methodology, many of which center on the results of implementing it. Third, it identifies several ways we could improve the methodology going forward, improving the empirical rigor of our approach. Fourth and finally, it takes stock of the project and provides our overall view of its significance. We emphasize that insofar as it’s appropriate to use our welfare range estimates for decision-making, they are placeholders for the main result, which is that the differences between species are smaller than some may have anticipated (or, more cautiously, that there is little empirical basis for postulating larger differences).
Introduction
Authors: Agrawal Anuja
Published: October 2024

This Introduction engages in a detailed discussion of the field of family studies in order to make a case for a renewed focus of research on family in India. Beginning with a distinction between ‘family’ and ‘families’, the Introduction argues for the need to distinguish normative ideas of family from its lived realities. Arguing for making both an object of critical social scientific analysis without the constraints of disciplinary silos and extant frameworks, it delves critically into the trajectories which have shaped the current status of family studies in India. It examines in detail the significant role of women/gender/sexuality studies in keeping family alive as an object of critical analysis and highlights the areas which need much more emphasis as well as contexts across which dialogues would enrich family studies in India. Introducing the volume chapters, it engages with how Family Studies need to move in new directions.