bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Improving estimation for asymptotically independent bivariate extremes via global estimators for the angular dependence function
Authors: Murphy-Barltrop C. J. R. , Wadsworth J. L. , Eastoe E. F. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractModelling the extremal dependence of bivariate variables is important in a wide variety of practical applications, including environmental planning, catastrophe modelling and hydrology. The majority of these approaches are based on the framework of bivariate regular variation, and a wide range of literature is available for estimating the dependence structure in this setting. However, such procedures are only applicable to variables exhibiting asymptotic dependence, even though asymptotic independence is often observed in practice. In this paper, we consider the so-called ‘angular dependence function’; this quantity summarises the extremal dependence structure for asymptotically independent variables. Until recently, only pointwise estimators of the angular dependence function have been available. We introduce a range of global estimators and compare them to another recently introduced technique for global estimation through a systematic simulation study, and a case study on river flow data from the north of England, UK.
Fabrication of luminescent disc-shaped microstructures via wet-chemical etching of hybrid sol–gel layers for potential photonic applications
Authors: Duda Łukasz , Rola Krzysztof , Łukomski Michał , Gawlik Andrzej , Olszewski Jacek , Czajkowski Maciej , Cybińska Joanna , Guzik Małgorzata 
Published: August 2024

AbstractSol–gel materials based on SiO2 and TiO2 precursors are attractive as a new platform for planar photonics. Particularly interesting are those based on organically modified silica (ORMOSIL), which may improve the luminescent properties of organic dyes. However, their microstructurization remains a challenge as it requires optimization of various technological stages. Here, we report the structurization of thin layers based on ORMOSIL precursor and titanium(IV) ethoxide (TET) containing luminescent rhodamine B (RhB) dye. Films were fabricated using sol–gel synthesis and dip-coating method. Depending on the time of annealing performed at 200 °C, layers with different thicknesses (300–760 nm) and refractive indices (RI) (1.51–1.68) were obtained. Combining photolithography and wet-chemical etching processes made it possible to fabricate well-separated sol–gel waveguides and discs of different diameters. The etching time in buffered hydrofluoric acid (BHF) affected the depth of the etched luminescent microstructures. Additionally, it was found that a longer layer’s annealing time increased the etching selectivity of the substrate over the sol–gel layer. This enabled the obtaining of under-etched sol–gel goblet microstructures. Selected samples were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). UV–Vis photoluminescence measurements showed that long heat treatment also influenced the emission spectrum’s shape. The stability of the films under ambient conditions was established using spectroscopic ellipsometry. It was proven that films heat-treated at 200 °C did not change their properties during storage time of around 2 months. Relatively high RI, luminescent properties, and structurization potential make these microstructures interesting for application in integrated photonic devices, e.g., light amplifiers or sensing systems.
Enriching satellite image annotations of forests with keyphrases from a specialized corpus
Authors: Neptune Nathalie , Mothe Josiane 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe automatic annotation of changes in satellite images requires examples of appropriate annotations. Alternatively, keyphrases extracted from a specialized corpus can serve as candidates for image annotation models. In the case of detecting deforestation in satellite images, there is a rich scientific literature available on the topic that may serve as a corpus for finding candidate annotations. We propose a method that utilizes a deep learning technique for change detection and visual semantic embedding. This method is combined with an information retrieval framework to find annotations for pairs of satellite images showing forest changes. Our evaluation is based on a dataset of image pairs from the Amazon rainforest and shows that keyphrases provide richer semantic information without any negative impact on the annotation compared to annotating with single words.
Fine structures of a solar type III radio bursts observed with LOFAR
Authors: Dabrowski Bartosz , Wolowska Aleksandra , Vocks Christian , Magdalenić Jasmina , Zhang Peijin , Flisek Pawel , Bröse Malte , Morosan Diana E. , Krankowski Andrzej , Fron Adam , Mann Gottfried , Zucca Pietro , Bisi Mario , Fallows Richard , Gallagher Peter , Marqué Christophe , Matyjasiak Barbara , Rothkaehl Hanna 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
We present spectral and imaging LOFAR (LOw-Frequency ARray) observations in the 20 – 40 MHz range of solar radio bursts fine structures, such as flag-like, sail-like, and dot-like that appeared on 8 April 2019. These structures were associated with type III solar radio bursts that occurred in the 40 – 80 MHz band. The mean duration and spectral widths of the fine structures range from 1.0 to 3.4 s and from 0.3 to 0.9 MHz, respectively. Additionally, we investigated the radio images of eight fine structures – two flags, two sails and four dots. This allowed us to determine their emission source sizes, which ranged from 240 to 392 arcmin

$${}^2$$

2

, and their frequencies from 25.58 to 39.25 MHz as well as their location. They occurred on the east side of the Sun and were most likely associated with an emerging active region NOAA AR 12738, where a weak B1.7 flare was observed.
Elimination of sugarcane mosaic virus, sugarcane yellow leaf virus, and co-infections in sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrids) shoot tips via osmo- and cryo-therapy
Authors: Cele Khethumusa H. , Ghai Meenu , Snyman Sandra J. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractCryopreservation for sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrids) germplasm conservation is well established. Virus elimination using droplet-vitrification (D-V) and cryo- or osmo-therapy has only been recently reported for sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV). In this study, exposing large (3 mm) in vitro shoot tips of cultivars N12, N19, N58, and NCo376 infected with sugarcane yellow leaf virus (SCYLV) and NCo376 co-infected with SCMV and SCYLV were tested for virus elimination using both of the above-mentioned techniques. Cryo-therapy involved the exposure of infected in vitro shoot tips to the D-V protocol followed by recording recovery and virus-free shoot tips 16 wk after treatment. Osmo-therapy, consisting of the same treatment as cryo-therapy without immersion in liquid nitrogen (LN), was included for comparative purposes. Cryo-therapy resulted in 100% of the recovered shoots being SCYLV-free in cultivars N19, N58, and NCo376 and 83% in N12 when compared with untreated material. Osmo-therapy showed 58% (N12), 91% (N19 and N58), and 100% (NCo376) of shoots being clear of SCYLV when compared with untreated in vitro control plants (0 to 8%). Both techniques reduced the regrowth levels of treated shoot tips (22 to 57% recovery) when compared with untreated controls (92 to 97%). A novel finding of the study was that NCo376 co-infected with SCMV and SCYLV showed 100% virus-free recovered shoots after cryo-therapy and 92 to 100% of healthy shoots after osmo-therapy, compared with controls, which had 17 to 42% virus-free shoots. Plants from all cultivars that were re-tested 4 mo after hardening maintained their virus-free status. The described techniques for virus eradication offer a promising solution for the provision of clean vegetative planting propagules and safer germplasm exchange.
Psychological impact of exceptional response in people with advanced cancer: a qualitative exploration
Authors: Wahab Sakeenah , Joshua Anthony , Dhillon Haryana M. , Barnet Megan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
In the cancer context, exceptional response incorporates unusual or unexpected response to anti-cancer treatment. For this study, exceptionally ‘good’ responses are defined as progression-free survival of more than three times the median from comparable trials. We aimed to explore how people meeting the definition of exceptional response to systemic cancer treatment experience adjust to their unexpected survivorship.

Methods
Individuals with ‘exceptional response’ to anti-cancer therapy nationally were referred by their treating clinicians to the Exceptional Responders Program. We conducted a qualitative sub-study involving semi-structured interviews with purposively selected participants. Those eligible had metastatic cancer, had survived at least 3 times the expected time since diagnosis, spoke English, and were aged > 18 years. Interviews were audiorecorded, transcribed and analysed thematically; and continued until thematic saturation was achieved.

Results
Twenty participants were interviewed. Thirteen were male (65%) with a median age of 63 years. Median time since cancer diagnosis was 6.5 years (range 3–18); survival times ranged between 3 and 10 times that expected. We identified four themes which varied in importance between individuals and over time.

Conclusion
Exceptional responders may benefit from routine screening of distress and unmet needs to provide psychosocial support. Clinical services must focus on first capturing and then tailoring care to meet the diverse needs of this growing cohort.

Implications for cancer survivors
Adjustment to a diagnosis of advanced cancer and subsequent unexpected long-term survival is an often isolating experience and is common amongst exceptional responders. Seeking psychological and social support may assist with adjustment.
Scalable Ammonia Synthesis in Fermentors Using Quantum Dot-Azotobacter vinelandii Hybrids
Authors: Kim Jayeong , Lee Byunghyun , Kim Gui-Min , Lee Ilsong , Lee Sang Yup , Choi Kyeong Rok , Lee Doh C. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThis study introduces a scalable synthesis of ammonia through photochemical reactions, wherein nitrogen-fixing bacterial cells, Azotobacter vinelandii (A. vinelandii), form hybrids with colloidal quantum dots (QDs). Irradiation of the QD-A. vinelandii hybrids with visible light is found to significantly enhance ammonia production efficiency. The inherently low ammonia conversion rate of wild-type A. vinelandii is substantially increased upon incorporation of QDs. This increase is attributed to the electron transfer from QDs within the bacterial cells to intracellular bio-components. Transferring this chemistry to a large-scale reaction presents a tremendous challenge, as it requires precise control over the growth conditions. We explore the scalability of the QD-A. vinelandii hybrids by conducting the photochemical reaction in a 5-L fermentor under various parameters, such as dissolved oxygen, nutrient supply, and pH. Interestingly, ammonia was produced in media depleted of carbon sources. Consequently, a two-step fermentation process was designed, enabling effective ammonia production. Our findings demonstrate that the QD-A. vinelandii hybrid system in a bioreactor setup achieves an ammonia turnover frequency of 11.96 s−1, marking a more than sixfold increase in efficiency over that of nitrogenase enzymes alone. This advancement highlights the potential of integrating biological and nanotechnological elements for scalable ammonia production processes.
The Role of Virtual Reality in the Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Suchak Karisma K. , Almario Christopher V. , Liran Omer , Chernoff Robert , Spiegel Brennan R. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder of gut-brain interaction that significantly impacts health-related quality of life (HRQOL). This article explores the potential role of virtual reality (VR)-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating patients with IBS.

Recent Findings
While CBT is a proven, skills-based therapy approach that modifies behaviors and alters dysfunctional thinking patterns to influence the gut-brain axis and improve IBS symptoms, it is rarely prescribed given a paucity of CBT-trained clinicians. We developed a novel VR program that delivers a standardized CBT program over an 8-week period to help patients manage their symptoms. In initial qualitative validation testing, patients expressed positive perceptions about using VR CBT for IBS.

Summary
Home-based, standardized VR CBT has the potential to be an effective and scalable treatment option for patients with IBS. While initial studies have shown proof-of-concept definitive randomized controlled trials are needed to demonstrate the efficacy of self-administered VR CBT in IBS.
Yoga in Pediatric Gastroenterology
Authors: Peropat Francis , Abbas Mazen I. , Perez Maria E. , Yu Elizabeth L. , Leiby Alycia 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
Pediatric use of yoga as an integrative medicine modality has increased in prevalence over the last several decades. In this article, we review the available evidence for yoga in pediatric gastrointestinal disorders.

Recent Findings
Evidence supports that in many pediatric disorders of gut brain interaction (DGBI), including irritable bowel syndrome, functional abdominal pain and functional dyspepsia, yoga decreases pain intensity and frequency and increases school attendance. Yoga has been shown to improve health-related quality of life and improve stress management as an effective adjunct to standard medical therapy in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Further studies are needed regarding optimal frequency, duration of practice and evaluation of the impact on IBD disease activity measures.

Summary
Yoga may benefit pediatric gastroenterology patients with DGBIs and IBD through improving quality of life and reducing pain. Future yoga studies could investigate biomarkers and continued research will help integrate this modality into routine pediatric gastroenterology care.
Expression of Caseicin from Lacticaseibacillus casei and Lacticaseibacillus zeae Provides Insight into Antilisterial Class IIa Bacteriocins
Authors: Salini Francesco , Vermeulen Ross , du Preez van Staden Anton , Comi Giuseppe , Iacumin Lucilla , Dicks Leon M. T. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractIn this study, an in silico screening approach was employed to mine potential bacteriocin clusters in genome-sequenced isolates of Lacticaseibacillus zeae UD 2202 and Lacticaseibacillus casei UD 1001. Two putative undescribed bacteriocin gene clusters (Cas1 and Cas2) closely related to genes encoding class IIa bacteriocins were identified. No bacteriocin activity was recorded when cell-free supernatants of strains UD 2202 and UD 1001 were tested against Listeria monocytogenes. Genes encoding caseicin A1 (casA1) and caseicin A2 (casA2) were heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) using the nisin leader peptide cloned in-frame to the C-terminal of the green fluorescent gene (mgfp5). Nisin protease (NisP) was used to cleave caseicin A1 (casA1) and caseicin A2 (casA2) from GFP-Nisin leader fusion proteins. Both heterologously expressed peptides (casA1 and casA2) inhibited the growth of L. monocytogenes, suggesting that casA1 and casA2 are either silent in the wild-type strains or are not secreted in an active form. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of casA1 and casA2, determined using HPLC-purified peptides, ranged from < 0.2 µg/mL to 12.5 µg/mL when tested against Listeria ivanovii, Listeria monocytogenes, and Listeria innocua, respectively. A higher MIC value (25 µg/mL) was recorded for casA1 and casA2 when Enterococcus faecium HKLHS was used as the target. The molecular weight of heterologously expressed casA1 and casA2 is 5.1 and 5.2 kDa, respectively, as determined with tricine-SDS-PAGE. Further research is required to determine if genes within Cas1 and Cas2 render immunity to other class IIa bacteriocins.
Puddles, creeks, and drainage: connected histories of water and malaria in Zanzibar, 1910–2021
Authors: Graboyes Melissa , Meta Judith N. , Clarke Rhaine , Bird Margaret , McCann Lily 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThis article draws on a combination of archival and oral sources in order to highlight the connected histories of water and malaria on the Indian Ocean island of Zanzibar (Unguja) over the past century. We argue that in both the past and the present, water and malaria have been deeply connected, through the lifecycle of the disease, through control measures enacted, and in how Zanzibari residents continue to talk about the relationship between rain, puddles, stagnant water, and disease. Archival sources show that between roughly 1913 and 1957, the British colonial government managed malaria by managing water. That entailed a focus on watery breeding sites that included attention to both the micro: cattle hoofprints, and the macro: a multi-decade drainage of the tidal creek and surrounding swamp. These water-based malaria control efforts were limited in their efficacy by being geographically restricted to urban Zanzibar Town, and often limited to just the Stone Town area. 98 interviews conducted with Zanzibaris about malaria indicate that people continue to draw strong connections between malaria and the environment (mazingira), and that they most commonly discuss water’s relationship with malaria in terms of puddles (dimbwi/madimbwi), small puddles (kidimbwi/vidimbwi) and stagnant water (maji yaliyotuama).
How is political trust associated with economic and environmental policy prioritization? A longitudinal analysis between 2017 and 2022
Authors: Ahonen Sami , Koivula Aki , Sivonen Jukka 
Published: August 2024

AbstractIn this article, we examine the longitudinal development of economy-over-environment policy priorities in Finland during a period marked by several significant adverse societal events. In addition, we explore the influence of political trust on these priorities over time. We utilize a five-round panel dataset comprising 2155 observations (N = 431) to examine both within-individual and between-individual variations from late 2017 to early 2023. Our findings reveal a significant increase in the prioritization of the economy in each observation period following the COVID-19 outbreak. However, this trend is not observed among individuals with high levels of political trust. The within-individual analysis indicates that high political trust moderates, rather than causes, higher economy-over-environment prioritization. Our study highlights the significance of political trust as a preventing factor against the deprioritization of environmental policies, particularly when societies confront significant and intersecting adverse events.
Response to the detection of Fusarium dieback associated with ambrosia beetles on Acer negundo in New South Wales
Authors: Callaghan Sophia , Carnegie Angus J. , Gillespie Peter , Mulholland Shannon , Nagel Matthew , Sargeant David , Daly Andrew , Wildman Ossie 
Published: August 2024

AbstractSymptoms consistent with polyphagous shot hole borer (Euwallacea fornicatus) and Fusarium dieback (Fusarium euwallaceae), recognised as high priority environmental pests for Australia, were observed on a single box elder (Acer negundo) tree in Sydney, New South Wales, in March 2022 during routine forest biosecurity surveillance. Delimiting surveys were undertaken around the Sydney basin, extending radially from the original box elder, resulting in the detection of a further three box elder and one tuckeroo (Cupaniopsis anacardioides) with suspicious symptoms. Samples were taken from the five trees and associated beetles diagnosed using morphological and molecular methods. Associated Fusarium-like fungi were identified according to phylogenetic inference using regions of the internal transcribed spacer, as well as the translation elongation factor 1-α and RNA polymerase II genes. The tea shot hole borer, Euwallacea perbrevis, was identified along with its known fungal mutualist, Fusarium obliquiseptatum. This pair have been reported in Queensland on avocado (Persea americana) and tuckeroo, and there are unpublished records of E. perbrevis from northern NSW, but this is the first report of both species occurring simultaneously in NSW. The biosecurity response following the initial detection, including the establishment of an Incident Management Team, surveillance, diagnostics, and stakeholder engagement, is discussed. This paper highlights the importance of surveillance for early detection of invasive pests and biosecurity systems and processes for enabling a timely response.
Extended version—to be, or not to be stateful: post-quantum secure boot using hash-based signatures
Authors: Wagner Alexander , Oberhansl Felix , Schink Marc 
Published: August 2024

AbstractWhile research in PQC has gained significant momentum, its adoption in real-world products is slow. This is largely due to concerns about practicability and maturity. The secure boot process of embedded devices is one scenario where such restraints can result in fundamental security problems. In this work, we present a flexible hardware/software co-design for HBS schemes which enables the transition to a post-quantum secure boot today. These signature schemes stand out due to their straightforward security proofs and are on the fast track to standardisation. Unlike previous work, we exploit the performance intensive similarities of the stateful LMS and XMSS schemes as well as the stateless$$\text {SPHINCS}^{+}$$SPHINCS+scheme. Thus, we enable designers to use a stateful or stateless scheme depending on the constraints of each individual application. To demonstrate the feasibility of our approach, we compare our results with hardware accelerated implementations of classical asymmetric algorithms. Further, we outline the use of different HBS schemes during the boot process. We compare different schemes, show the importance of parameter choices, and demonstrate the performance gain with different levels of hardware acceleration.