bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mathematical Modeling of the Normal Fuel Consumption of Certain Vehicles
Authors: Țîţu A M , Neamţu G , Țincu I , Boroiu A 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The scientific paper introduces original research and unique perspectives on the technical and economic aspects of fuel consumption in motor vehicles. Numerous experts argue that conducting practical experiments, specifically through active determinations, can yield noteworthy outcomes in this domain. To substantiate this viewpoint, the paper includes practical examples of experiments and considerations related to the mathematical model used for validating objective functions. These functions encompass the average fuel consumption in liters per 100 kilometers and the quantity of CO2 emitted per kilometer by the thermal engine of motor vehicles. The research also articulates the authors’ stance, citing the World Health Organization’s recommendation to decrease urban traffic speed from 50 km/h to 30 km/h. This reduction aims to mitigate traffic accidents and curb chemical noise and vibration pollution. The study amalgamates results from tests conducted on both urban and extra-urban routes, incorporating eco-friendly driving practices for comparative purposes. The primary focus of the mathematical model is to validate fuel consumption under real driving conditions. The paper concludes with insights and future research directions in modeling.
Recent progress in photovoltaic and thermoelectric applications of coupled colloidal quantum dot solids: insights into charge transport fundamentals
Authors: Manna Aditi , Ray Nirat 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) have emerged as transformative materials with diverse properties, holding tremendous promise for reshaping the landscape of photovoltaics and thermoelectrics. Emphasizing the pivotal role of surface ligands, ranging from extended hydrocarbon chains to intricate metal chalcogenide complexes, halides, and hybrid ligands, we underscore their influence on the electronic behavior of the assembly. The ability to tailor interdot coupling can have profound effects on charge transport, making colloidal QDs a focal point for research aimed at enhancing the efficiency and performance of energy conversion devices. This perspective provides insights into the multifaceted realm of QD solids, starting from fundamentals of charge transport through the coupled assemblies. We delve into recent breakthroughs, spotlighting champion devices across various architectures and elucidating the sequential advancements that have significantly elevated efficiency levels.
MotGen: a closed-loop bacterial motility control framework using generative adversarial networks
Authors: Seo BoGeum , Lee DoHee , Jeon Heungjin , Ha Junhyoung , Suh SeungBeum 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Motivation
Many organisms’ survival and behavior hinge on their responses to environmental signals. While research on bacteria-directed therapeutic agents has increased, systematic exploration of real-time modulation of bacterial motility remains limited. Current studies often focus on permanent motility changes through genetic alterations, restricting the ability to modulate bacterial motility dynamically on a large scale. To address this gap, we propose a novel real-time control framework for systematically modulating bacterial motility dynamics.

Results
We introduce MotGen, a deep learning approach leveraging Generative Adversarial Networks to analyze swimming performance statistics of motile bacteria based on live cell imaging data. By tracking objects and optimizing cell trajectory mapping under environmentally altered conditions, we trained MotGen on a comprehensive statistical dataset derived from real image data. Our experimental results demonstrate MotGen’s ability to capture motility dynamics from real bacterial populations with low mean absolute error in both simulated and real datasets. MotGen allows us to approach optimal swimming conditions for desired motility statistics in real-time. MotGen’s potential extends to practical biomedical applications, including immune response prediction, by providing imputation of bacterial motility patterns based on external environmental conditions. Our short-term, in-situ interventions for controlling motility behavior offer a promising foundation for the development of bacteria-based biomedical applications.

Availability and implementation
MotGen is presented as a combination of Matlab image analysis code and a machine learning workflow in Python. Codes are available at https://github.com/bgmseo/MotGen, for cell tracking and implementation of trained models to generate bacterial motility statistics.
FPLS-DC: functional partial least squares through distance covariance for imaging genetics
Authors: Pan Wenliang , Shan Yue , Li Chuang , Huang Shuai , Li Tengfei , Li Yun , Zhu Hongtu 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Motivation
Imaging genetics integrates imaging and genetic techniques to examine how genetic variations influence the function and structure of organs like the brain or heart, providing insights into their impact on behavior and disease phenotypes. The use of organ-wide imaging endophenotypes has increasingly been used to identify potential genes associated with complex disorders. However, analyzing organ-wide imaging data alongside genetic data presents two significant challenges: high dimensionality and complex relationships. To address these challenges, we propose a novel, nonlinear inference framework designed to partially mitigate these issues.

Results
We propose a functional partial least squares through distance covariance (FPLS-DC) framework for efficient genome wide analyses of imaging phenotypes. It consists of two components. The first component utilizes the FPLS-derived base functions to reduce image dimensionality while screening genetic markers. The second component maximizes the distance correlation between genetic markers and projected imaging data, which is a linear combination of the FPLS-basis functions, using simulated annealing algorithm. In addition, we proposed an iterative FPLS-DC method based on FPLS-DC framework, which effectively overcomes the influence of inter-gene correlation on inference analysis. We efficiently approximate the null distribution of test statistics using a gamma approximation. Compared to existing methods, FPLS-DC offers computational and statistical efficiency for handling large-scale imaging genetics. In real-world applications, our method successfully detected genetic variants associated with the hippocampus, demonstrating its value as a statistical toolbox for imaging genetic studies.

Availability and implementation
The FPLS-DC method we propose opens up new research avenues and offers valuable insights for analyzing functional and high-dimensional data. In addition, it serves as a useful tool for scientific analysis in practical applications within the field of imaging genetics research. The R package FPLS-DC is available in Github: https://github.com/BIG-S2/FPLSDC.
Revisiting the Customary International Law Avenue: Immunity of State Officials of Non-Party States in the Enforcement Proceedings of the International Criminal Court
Authors: Liu Yunqing 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The International Criminal Court usually must rely on the States Parties to the Rome Statute to arrest and surrender suspects. Since the Court can assume jurisdiction over Non-State Parties’ officials, a dilemma thus arises of their immunity when this occurs as it did in the recent arrest warrant for Putin. This article primarily examines one of the avenues explored by the Court to remove immunity, specifically the Customary International Law Avenue. First, under this Avenue, the Court removes “vertical immunity” by arguing that either (1) international courts gradually constitute exceptions to traditional customary immunity rules, or (2) traditional customary immunity rules are never applicable in international courts. However, this article contends that both approaches are difficult to justify. The former fails as relevant evidence does not meet the threshold of constituting exceptions to existing customary rules. The latter is similarly untenable as it does not provide a convincing definition of what is known as “international courts” which could legitimately justify the different application of immunity rules in these and in domestic courts. Second, this Avenue proceeds to remove “horizontal immunity” by recharacterizing States Parties as surrogates of international criminal jurisdiction rather than exercising domestic criminal jurisdiction which renders “horizontal immunity” irrelevant. This article argues instead that there is a difference between States Parties assuming an international obligations and implementing them domestically. Additionally, the Rome Statute grants considerable deference to States Parties for arrest and surrender within their own territory which makes it inappropriate to regard these as mere “jurisdictional surrogates” of international criminal jurisdiction. If the Customary International Law Avenue is ultimately adopted, it would have a profound impact on the practice of the International Criminal Court and beyond.
Interlaboratory Comparison of Antibody-Free LC-MS/MS Measurements of C-peptide and Insulin
Authors: Moradian Annie , Goonatilleke Elisha , Lin Tai-Tu , Hatten-Beck Maya , Emrick Michelle , Schepmoes Athena A , Fillmore Thomas L , MacCoss Michael J , Sechi Salvatore , Sobhani Kimia , Little Randie , Kabytaev Kuanysh , van Eyk Jennifer E , Qian Wei-Jun , Hoofnagle Andrew N 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
The enhanced precision and selectivity of liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) makes it an attractive alternative to certain clinical immunoassays. Easily transferrable work flows could help facilitate harmonization and ensure high-quality patient care. We aimed to evaluate the interlaboratory comparability of antibody-free multiplexed insulin and C-peptide LC-MS/MS measurements.

Methods
The laboratories that comprise the Targeted Mass Spectrometry Assays for Diabetes and Obesity Research (TaMADOR) consortium verified the performance of a validated peptide-based assay (reproducibility, linearity, and lower limit of the measuring interval [LLMI]). An interlaboratory comparison study was then performed using shared calibrators, de-identified leftover laboratory samples, and reference materials.

Results
During verification, the measurements were precise (2.7% to 3.7%CV), linear (4 to 15 ng/mL for C-peptide and 2 to 14 ng/mL for insulin), and sensitive (LLMI of 0.04 to 0.10 ng/mL for C-peptide and 0.03 ng/mL for insulin). Median imprecision across the 3 laboratories was 13.4% (inter-quartile range [IQR] 11.6%) for C-peptide and 22.2% (IQR 20.9%) for insulin using individual measurements, and 10.8% (IQR 8.7%) and 15.3% (IQR 14.9%) for C-peptide and insulin, respectively, when replicate measurements were averaged. Method comparison with the University of Missouri reference method for C-peptide demonstrated a robust linear correlation with a slope of 1.044 and r2 = 0.99.

Conclusions
Our results suggest that combined LC-MS/MS measurements of C-peptide and insulin are robust and adaptable and that standardization with a reference measurement procedure could allow accurate and precise measurements across sites, which could be important to diabetes research and help patient care in the future.
Comparative foraging behavior of 3 heron species in small standing-water ecosystems in the arid zone of Oman
Authors: Kasprzykowski Zbigniew , Golawski Artur 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The composition of assemblages, diet and behavior of waterbird species with similar ecological features are important aspects in the functioning of aquatic ecosystems. Closely related animal species often share resources such as space and food in ways that reduce competition, but if the diets of different species strongly overlap, interspecific competition may intensify. This analysis examined behavioral data relating to Great Egret, Little Egret, and Squacco Heron to explore their foraging efficiencies in rich aquatic habitats in an arid zone during post-breeding movements. The fieldwork was carried out in small estuaries of a Wadi on the southern coast of Oman. The frequency of interactions was the highest in Squacco Heron and the lowest in Great Egret. However, the differences in the numbers of inter- and intra-specific interactions between the 3 species were significant. Activity indices calculated for a 5-min period, i.e., the number of interactions (interaction index) and times of flying and walking (movement index) differed among the 3 species. The number of successful attacks was the highest in Squacco Heron, while the foraging effectiveness of Great Egret and Little Egret was similar. GLM analysis showed that only the movement index was significant, as it had a positive impact on individual foraging success. Great Egret caught more fish than the other 2 heron species which, in turn, caught a greater number of smaller prey items, mostly invertebrates. This study shows that heron species in the same rich habitat employ different foraging tactics. In comparison to the other two heron species, the foraging tactics of Squacco Heron seem to be the most susceptible to competition. However, its greater mobility and using different foraging tactics, enhance its foraging success.
Predictors of Symptoms Trajectories in Newly Diagnosed Ulcerative Colitis: A 3-Year Follow-up Cohort Study
Authors: Van Den Houte Maaike , Guadagnoli Livia , Öhman Lena , Bergstedt Anders , Johansson Berndt , Simrén Magnus , Strid Hans , Van Oudenhove Lukas , Svedlund Jan 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background and Aims
Psychological symptoms are associated with poorer ulcerative colitis [UC]-related outcomes. However, the majority of research is cross-sectional. We aimed to identify subgroups based on the longitudinal evolution of GI symptom levels and health-related quality of life [HRQoL], and to disentangle the directionality of effects between GI symptom levels and psychological distress.

Methods
Self-reported gastrointestinal [GI] symptom severity, HRQoL, inflammatory biomarkers, and psychological distress were assessed in 98 newly diagnosed UC patients at disease onset and yearly for 3 consecutive years. Latent class growth analysis was used to determine subgroups based on longitudinal trajectories of symptom severity and HRQoL, and baseline predictors of trajectory group membership were determined. Cross-lagged structural equation models were used to disentangle temporal relationships between psychological functioning and symptom severity.

Results
Patients with higher initial psychological distress had increased probability of maintaining higher levels of diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Conversely, patients with lower initial levels of diarrhoea and abdominal pain had higher chances of maintaining lower levels of psychological distress. Higher levels of C-reactive protein at baseline predicted greater improvements in mental health after anti-inflammatory treatment. Reductions in diarrhoea and abdominal pain preceded reductions in psychological symptoms over time.

Conclusions
Baseline psychological distress is predictive of increased GI symptom severity and reduced mental HRQoL over time, suggesting early assessment of psychological symptoms may identify patients who may have worse disease trajectories. Abdominal pain predicted increased psychological distress, but not the other way around. Intervening on abdominal pain may help prevent or reduce future psychological distress.
Productivity costs of lifelong smoking—the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 study
Authors: Rissanen Ina , Nerg Iiro , Oura Petteri , Huikari Sanna , Korhonen Marko 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
Smoking is one of the leading causes of impaired health and mortality. Loss of paid and unpaid work and replacements due to morbidity and mortality result in productivity costs. Our aim was to investigate the productivity costs of lifelong smoking trajectories and cumulative exposure using advanced human capital method (HCM) and friction cost method (FCM).

Methods
Within the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 (NFBC1966), 10 650 persons were followed from antenatal period to age 55 years. The life course of smoking behaviour was assessed with trajectory modelling and cumulative exposure with pack-years. Productivity costs were estimated with advanced HCM and FCM models by using detailed, national register-based data on care, disability, mortality, education, taxation, occupation and labour market. A two-part regression model was used to predict productivity costs associated with lifelong smoking and cumulative exposure.

Results
Of the six distinct smoking trajectories, lifetime smokers had the highest productivity costs followed by late starters, late adult quitters, young adult quitters and youth smokers. Never-smokers had the lowest productivity costs. The higher the number of pack-years, the higher the productivity costs. Uniform patterns were found in both men and women and when estimated with HCM and FCM. The findings were independent of other health behaviours.

Conclusions
Cumulative exposure to smoking is more crucial to productivity costs than starting or ending age of smoking. This suggests that the harmful effects of smoking depend on dose and duration of smoking and are irrespective of age when smoking occurred.
Salvage Logging and Secondary Succession Promote Spider Diversity in Post-disturbance Stands in Western Germany
Authors: Plath Eva , Fischer Denise , Glebsattel Selina , Näckel Lara , Fischer Klaus 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Climate change and biodiversity loss strongly affect ecosystems. In recent years, forests have suffered substantially from climate-induced disturbances resulting in bark beetle outbreaks in coniferous forests. In forest plantations, such disturbances often cause large-scale diebacks, which are frequently salvage-logged. However, the consequences of natural disturbances and subsequent management for forest biodiversity and ecosystem services within plantations are largely unclear. Because they comprise good bioindicators for forest alterations, we here investigated epigeal spider diversity and community composition of three post-disturbance management approaches in former spruce plantations in western Germany. Taxonomic diversity of spiders was significantly enhanced on salvage-logged and secondary succession compared with standing deadwood sites. Nevertheless, the latter provided a refuge for forest specialists, moisture and shade-loving as well as smaller species, whereas the other two management categories were mostly inhabited by larger spiders associated with open habitats. Because all three post-disturbance management approaches harbored highly distinct spider communities and divergent functional guilds, we propose the application of a variety of management approaches for bark beetle-affected spruce plantations. The resulting habitat heterogeneity will likely enhance the biodiversity of spiders and other taxonomic groups.
Study Implications: Bark beetle outbreaks became severe disturbances in spruce plantations. The management of affected stands usually aims at mitigating economic losses, but within the current biodiversity crisis, it is increasingly important to consider ecological consequences. This study shows that salvage logging or secondary succession can increase spider taxonomic diversity, although forest species preferred standing deadwood sites. All management categories harbored highly distinct spider assemblages characterized by different ecological and functional guilds. Our results indicated that spider communities were influenced by canopy openness, microclimate, and competition rather than post-disturbance management. Therefore, management practices should include diverse approaches to foster many different spider assemblages.
An Accuracy Assessment of Field and Airborne Laser Scanning–Derived Individual Tree Inventories using Felled Tree Measurements and Log Scaling Data in a Mixed Conifer Forest
Authors: Sparks Aaron M , Corrao Mark V , Keefe Robert F , Armstrong Ryan , Smith Alistair M S 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
On-the-ground sample-based forest inventory methods have been the standard practice for more than a century, however, remote sensing technologies such as airborne laser scanning (ALS) are providing wall-to-wall inventories based on individual tree measurements. In this study, we assess the accuracy of individual tree height, diameter, and volume derived from field-cruising measurements and three ALS data-derived methods in a 1.1 ha stand using direct measurements acquired on felled trees and log-scale volume measurements. Results show that although height derived from indirect conventional field measurements and ALS were statistically equivalent to felled tree height measurements, ALS measured heights had lower root mean square error (RMSE) and bias. Individual tree diameters modeled using a height-to-diameter-at-breast-height model derived from local forest inventory data and the software ForestView had moderate RMSE (8.3–8.5 cm) and bias (-3.0 – -0.3 cm). The ALS-based methods underdetected trees but accounted for 78%–91% of the field reference harvested merchantable volume and 71%–99% of the merchantable volume scaled at the mill. The results also illustrate challenges of using mill-scaled volume estimates as validation data and highlight the need for more research in this area. Overall, the results provide key insights to forest managers on accuracies associated with conventional field-derived and ALS-derived individual tree inventories.
Study Implications: Forest inventory data provide critical information for operational decisions and forest product supply chain planning. Traditionally, forest inventories have used field sampling of stand conditions, which is time-intensive and cost-prohibitive to conduct at large spatial scales. Remote sensing technologies such as airborne laser scanning (ALS) provide wall-to-wall inventories based on individual tree measurements. This study advances our understanding of the accuracy of conventional field-derived and ALS-derived individual tree inventories by evaluating these inventories with felled tree and log scaling data. The results provide key insights to forest managers on errors associated with conventional field and ALS-derived individual tree measurements.