Extensive Survey Research Articles

An Untargeted Search for Radio-emitting Tidal Disruption Events in the VAST Pilot Survey

We present a systematic search for tidal disruption events (TDEs) using radio data from the Variables and Slow Transients (VAST) Pilot Survey conducted using the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder. Historically, TDEs have been identified using observations at X-ray, optical, and ultraviolet wavelengths. After discovery, a few dozen TDEs have been shown to have radio counterparts through follow-up observations. With systematic time-domain radio surveys becoming available, we can now identify new TDEs in the radio regime. A population of radio-discovered TDEs has the potential to provide several key insights including an independent constraint on their volumetric rate. We conducted a search to select variable radio sources with a single prominent radio flare and a position consistent within 2σ of the nucleus of a known galaxy. While TDEs were the primary target of our search, sources identified in this search may also be consistent with active galactic nuclei exhibiting unusual flux density changes at the timescales probed, uncharacteristically bright supernovae, or a population of gamma-ray bursts. We identify a sample of 12 radio-bright candidate TDEs. The timescales and luminosities range from ∼6 to 230 days and ∼1038 to 1041 erg s−1, respectively, consistent with models of radio emission from TDEs that launch relativistic jets. After calculating the detection efficiency of our search using a Monte Carlo simulation of TDEs, and assuming all 12 sources are jetted TDEs, we derive a volumetric rate for jetted TDEs of 0.80−0.23+0.31 Gpc−3 yr−1, consistent with previous empirically estimated rates.

Cultural practices, young people and the ethos of vulnerability in Finland

In this article, we delve into an examination of how the ethos of vulnerability is manifested within cultural practices related to young people in Finland, thereby shaping and determining the conditions of what is possible for the kinds of subjects that young people can become. We employed the term ‘affective subjectivation’ to elucidate the processes through which young people from diverse life situations are inclined to turn themselves into vulnerabilised subjects within the ethos of vulnerability, thereby amplifying the prevalence of highly individualised and psycho-emotional interventions and elements. Our affective-discursive analysis centres on two distinct categories of cultural practice: youth support systems and an extensive questionnaire survey about young men’s mental health. We scrutinise how the ethos of vulnerability operates within these contexts, influencing and shaping the conditions of possibility for young people. Moreover, we extend our analysis to examine how therapeutic power contributes to the affective landscapes of masculinity, and the ambivalences of young Finnish men’s gendered and therapeutic, vulnerabilised subjectivities.

Ladybird Beetle Diversity in Natural and Human-Modified Habitats in the San Cristóbal Island, Galapagos, Ecuador.

This study investigates the species richness and distribution of ladybird beetles (Coccinellidae) across various habitats on San Cristóbal Island in the Galápagos Archipelago, Ecuador. Through extensive field surveys, we catalogued nineteen species, including four previously known species (two endemics, Psyllobora bisigma and Scymnobius scalesius, and two natives, Cycloneda sanguinea and Tenuisvalvae bromelicola). We also identified nine possibly native species reported for the first time in the Galapagos islands in this study or correspond to the first voucher specimens for the island. We collected three previously reported non-native species: Cheilomenes sexmaculata, Novius cardinalis, and Paraneda guticollis. Three species belonging to the genera Stethorus, Calloeneis, and Delphastus remain undetermined, pending further taxonomic analyses. Our findings reveal a rich and complex community with notable differences in species abundance and habitat preference. Endemic species were found to be particularly scarce and restricted mainly to crops undergoing forest regeneration and deciduous forests, emphasising their vulnerability and specialised habitat requirements. The native Cycloneda sanguinea emerged as the most prevalent species, exhibiting broad ecological adaptability. Non-native species, like Cheilomenes sexmaculata, were predominantly found in disturbed habitats, with some showing early signs of spreading into more natural environments, raising concerns about their potential impact on local biodiversity. These findings contribute valuable knowledge to understanding Coccinellidae diversity on San Cristóbal Island and highlight the importance of continued monitoring, particularly in the face of ongoing environmental change and the introduction of non-native species. This study underscores the need for targeted conservation efforts to protect the unique and fragile ecosystems of the Galápagos Archipelago.

How do young-oriented values facilitate conspicuous consumption travel behaviour through information searching and content generation?

PurposeThis study explores how the effects of youth-oriented values influence the behavioural attitudes towards online conspicuous activities during travel, leading to their further conspicuous consumption travel behaviour.Design/methodology/approachThis study applied a mixed-methods approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 young tourists to extract the youth-oriented value measurement scale. A systematic survey was conducted in a renovated heritage site in China. PLS-SEM analysis was performed on 322 responses to test the proposed hypotheses.FindingsThe results of semi-structured interviews supplement seven new items and form a measurement scale of youth-oriented values with 16 items in three dimensions (self-identification, peer-identification and eagerness to change). The results of PLS-SEM analysis reveal that all three youth-oriented values significantly influence attitudes towards information searching and content generation, and these two behavioural attitudes are positively related to continuous conspicuous consumption travel. The openness trait moderates the relationship between self-identification and content generation.Originality/valueThe study contributes to youth tourism research in conspicuous consumption travel behaviour. It provides insights to tourism operators to formulate strategies to develop the young tourist market in a cultural heritage tourism context.

Mumbai to Dubai: Promotional strategies and the celluloid journey of Bollywood films to the UAE

In recent years, the cinematic migration of Bollywood films from Mumbai to Dubai has captivated attention, prompting a focused investigation. This study aims to scrutinize the promotional strategies used in distributing Bollywood films in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) through meticulous analysis of questionnaire responses. Executing an extensive survey for UAE moviegoers and industry professionals, the research seeks quantitative data on the efficacy of diverse promotional strategies. The study underscores the importance of cultural variables in Bollywood-UAE film promotion, examining cultural similarities between India and the UAE, portraying UAE culture in Bollywood films, and using cultural festivals for marketing. Economic factors driving this collaboration, including box office success, coproductions, and the impact of Bollywood tourism on the UAE economy, are systematically analyzed. The study explores technological advancements in film promotion—social media, internet streaming, and virtual reality—and their impact on the relationship between Bollywood and the UAE. The survey investigates audience preferences, advertising impacts, and awareness levels by examining specific advertising tactics in the UAE, such as premieres, endorsements, tours, and participation in festivals and award shows. In addition to providing a comprehensive understanding of the promotional environment, the questionnaire data analysis identifies trends influencing the trajectory of Bollywood films in the UAE, offering empirical support to film studies and marketing. The hypothesis is tested on the Chi-square, Pearson Correlation, and Mann‒Whitney. The research’s conclusions contribute to understanding the globalization of the Bollywood film industry, guiding producers, marketers, and researchers in cross-cultural film promotion and global industry partnerships.

Exploring the Modern Fungicides for the In vitro Management of Pokkah Boeng Disease of Maize Caused by Fusarium verticillioides (SACC.) Nirenberg

Pokkah boeng disease caused by Fusarium verticillioides is an emerging fungal disease affecting maize recently leading to substantial yield losses. The increasing resistance of pathogens to older fungicides, along with environmental concerns, underscores the need for new management strategies that incorporates next-generation fungicides. In response to this challenge, a comprehensive and systematic survey was conducted in 2022-23 across the Dharwad district of Karnataka. The survey documented disease symptoms such as chlorosis at the base of leaves, malformation and twisting of the foliage. The pathogen was isolated and confirmed as F. verticillioides through molecular diagnosis. In the present study, the pathogen was tested for in vitro efficacy of modern fungicides at three different concentrations viz., 0.1, 0.15 and 0.2 per cent using poisoned food technique. In vitro testing of new generation fungicides revealed that, Tebuconazole 25.9%EC and combinations fungicides viz., Carbendazim 12%+Mancozeb 63%WP and Trifloxystrobin 25% + Tebuconazole 50%WG resulted in 100 per cent inhibition of the mycelial growth of the pathogen. Hexaconazole 5%SC, Azoxystrobin 23%SC, Trifloxystrobin 25%SC, Tricyclazole 18%+Mancozeb 62% WP and Azoxystrobin 18.2%+Difenoconazole 11.4%SC inhibited mycelial growth by 99.15, 85.49, 85.57 93.08 and 86.87 per cent, respectively. The mycelial growth in fungicide-treated media appeared either fluffy or cottony. Among the fungicides tested, Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP, Trifloxystrobin 25% + Tebuconazole 50% WG, and Tebuconazole 25.9%EC demonstrated 100 per cent efficacy in inhibiting pathogen mycelial growth, even at a low concentration of 0.1%. These results suggest a promising direction for disease management, while the other fungicides tested were found to be less effective.

A systematic survey of environmental DNA in Palau's lakes and waterfalls reveals an increase in Leptospira levels after flooding

ObjectiveLeptospirosis is an important bacterial zoonosis which is widespread in tropical and subtropical islands and influences human and animal health which has secondary economic effects. Although leptospirosis is endemic in Palau, an Oceanian Pacific Island country, few systematic surveys of potential risk factors for Leptospira infection, such as weather and host animals, have been conducted in the natural environment. We used environmental DNA metabarcoding to assess the distribution, species diversity, and abundance of pathogenic Leptospira in this endemic region to investigate the potential environmental risks. MethodsForty-two paired water samples, representing fine and rainy weather conditions, were collected from four representative waterfalls and lakes on Babeldaob Island, the largest island in Palau. High-throughput sequencing analysis was conducted for polymerase chain reaction products of leptospiral 16S rRNA and vertebrate animal mitochondrial 12S rRNA genes. ResultsWe revealed greater Leptospira diversity and abundance in samples collected after continuous rain, particularly in the presence of flooding, compared with samples collected under typhoon, monsoon, or fine weather conditions. From same samples, six mammalian species including cats (Felis catus), mice (Mus musculus), Yap flying fox (Pteropus yapensis), rats (Rattus spp.), and pigs (Sus scrofa) were repeatedly detected. These may be candidates of host animals of Leptospira in Palau; however, their detection was not clearly correlated with that of Leptospira. ConclusionWe repeatedly detected several species of pathogenic Leptospira from water samples of a wide region of Babeldaob Island. We confirmed that Leptospira contamination in freshwater environments increased under rainy conditions, particularly in the presence of flooding. This information could be used to improve public health control measures in this region.

A Survey of Mix-based Data Augmentation: Taxonomy, Methods, Applications, and Explainability

Data augmentation (DA) is indispensable in modern machine learning and deep neural networks. The basic idea of DA is to construct new training data to improve the model’s generalization by adding slightly disturbed versions of existing data or synthesizing new data. This survey comprehensively reviews a crucial subset of DA techniques, namely Mix-based Data Augmentation (MixDA), which generates novel samples by combining multiple examples. In contrast to traditional DA approaches that operate on single samples or entire datasets, MixDA stands out due to its effectiveness, simplicity, computational efficiency, theoretical foundation, and broad applicability. We begin by introducing a novel taxonomy that categorizes MixDA into Mixup-based, Cutmix-based, and mixture approaches based on a hierarchical perspective of the data mixing operation. Subsequently, we provide an in-depth review of various MixDA techniques, focusing on their underlying motivations. Owing to its versatility, MixDA has penetrated a wide range of applications, which we also thoroughly investigate in this survey. Moreover, we delve into the underlying mechanisms of MixDA’s effectiveness by examining its impact on model generalization and calibration while providing insights into the model’s behavior by analyzing the inherent properties of MixDA. Finally, we recapitulate the critical findings and fundamental challenges of current MixDA studies while outlining the potential directions for future works. Different from previous related surveys that focus on DA approaches in specific domains (e.g., computer vision and natural language processing) or only review a limited subset of MixDA studies, we are the first to provide a systematical survey of MixDA, covering its taxonomy, methodology, application, and explainability. Furthermore, we provide promising directions for researchers interested in this exciting area.

Molecular-phylogenetic analyses of Babesia and Theileria species from small mammals and their ticks in northern China suggest new reservoirs of bovine and equine piroplasms

Babesia and Theileria species (Apicomplexa: Piroplasmida) are tick-borne protozoan parasites that can cause mild to severe infection in humans, wildlife, livestock and companion animals. To date, reports on the molecular study of piroplasms from wild living small mammals and their ticks are still limited, especially in Asia. This study encompassed an extensive survey involving 907 liver samples and 145 ixodid ticks from 16 different species of small mammals (Rodentia, Lagomorpha, Eulipotyphla). These were collected in 13 cities and counties in northern China. DNA extracts from these samples were screened for the presence of piroplasm 18S rRNA gene. Samples that tested positive were further evaluated for other genetic markers of piroplasms, including the cox1 gene and the ITS1-5.8S rDNA-ITS2 region. Several piroplasm species were identified, including Babesia sp. tavsan2, Babesia occultans, Theileria sp. Xinjiang, Theileria equi, and Theileria sp. Kalecik. Among these, Theileria sp. Xinjiang was shown to be the most prevalent. Importantly, Babesia sp. tavsan2 was identified in the tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus from the Yarkand hare and Theileria sp. Kalecik in Hyalomma asiaticum from the long-eared hedgehog, in line with the detection of these pathogens in tissue samples of the relevant hosts. This study further disclosed the presence of DNA from B. occultans and T. equi, typically found in cattle and horses respectively, with an additional discovery in small mammals. Moreover, Theileria sp. Kalecik, which was first detected in small-sized mammals, and Babesia sp. tavsan2, were both reported for the first time in China.

Characterization, registration and gazette notification

The first animal to be domesticated by the man was dog which probably occurred at least 14,000 years ago- the animals being used for hunting and as watchdogs. In India many exotic dog breeds (mainly German Shepherd, Labrador, Doberman, Pomeranian etc) are kept as pet but little emphasis has been given to the native dog breeds. Some Indian breeds of dogs reported in India are Caravan Hound, Combai, Chippiparai, Rajapalayam, Rampur Hound, Kanni, Mudhol Hound, Indian Mastiff (Bulli), Himalayan sheep dog, Bhutia dogs, Bhakarwal dogs etc. ICAR-NBAGR has developed methodology for characterization of dog breeds of Indian through systematic survey in the area of its distribution along with Breed Descriptors format for dog breeds. Phenotypic characterization of two indigenous dog breeds viz Rajapalayam and Chippiparai were completed by ICAR-NBAGR. Rajapalayam and Chippiparai dogs are exclusively reared for guarding the farm and farm houses. Chippiparai dogs are even given to brides during marriage. There is huge demand for the pups of these dog breeds. State of Karnataka has also completed the characterization of Mudhol hound breed. All three dog have been registered by ICAR & Gazette notified by Govt. of India.

Smart tools for archaeological survey in different frameworks and contexts: approaches, analysis, results

The world of geomatics today provides new tools, smart and low cost, for archaeological survey, from geographical positioning to detailed drawing and graphic documentation of past evidence. These instruments, light and not bulky, interface directly with tablets, iPads or smartphones via intuitive applications and speed up the data collection in the field: archaeological data collection seems not to be a big issue today and 3D survey appears to be accessible even to less experienced archaeologists. We have tested the Trimble Catalyst DA2 smart system for centimetric georeferencing at the Curiae Veteres in Rome (Italy), at the Sun Temple of Niuserra, in Abu Ghurab (Egypt) and inside the ancient site of Eridu in Iraq: it was a good opportunity to check the accuracy of this tool, especially when associated to detailed and close-range survey activities, related to landscape archaeology and stratigraphic excavations. As we will see, if the instrument cannot replace more precise measurement tools still today (such as total station or laser scanner), in the field of georeferencing can be alternative to more expensive and complex GNSS systems, and it proved to be quite effective in systematic archaeological survey of large areas, especially in association with digital aerial photogrammetry made by UAV-UAS.

347 Quantifying phenotypic and genetic variation for cow fertility phenotypes in American Simmentals using total herd reporting data

Abstract Inefficiencies in reproduction are the largest drivers of loss in United States beef production. Nearly all reproductive traits are at least modestly heritable, making genetic selection and improvement possible over the long term. Cow-centric reproductive traits present unique challenges, as they are not expressed in male animals and will not be observed until later in the productive life of a female, if at all. This makes cow-centric fertility traits ideal candidates for selection with Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs). We used a commercially generated dataset from the American Simmental Association (ASA) to explore the phenotypic and genetic variation in these traits. The dataset comprised Total Herd Enrollment (THE) records, which required unbiased reporting of enrollment, calving, and disposal for 303,158 females (132,403 cows and 170,755 heifers). Using the THE data, we calculated three continuous and two discrete traits that are indicators of heifer and cow fertility and rebreeding ability. These traits were: 1) calving date (calving date of the cow relative to the start of the calving season), 2) calving interval (days between calves), 3) first calving interval (calving interval observation between the first and second calving record for a female), 4) heifer pregnancy (did the animal calve as 2-yr-old?), and 5) discrete early calving (did animal calve in the first 30 d of the calving season?). We observed a significant difference in calving date in mature cows that calved in the first 30 d of the calving season of their contemporary group as heifers compared with those that calved later (Table 1). Early calving heifers averaged a nearly 10 d sooner calving date throughout their productive lives compared with those that calved after 30 d as heifers (29.9 d vs. 40.2 d, P-value < 0.01). We used a combined pedigree and genomic approach, implemented in GIBBSF90+, to estimate genetic, environmental, and permanent environmental variance components. We estimated heritabilities of 0.24 (± 0.037215) for heifer pregnancy, 0.06 (± 0.009265) for calving date, 0.07 (± 0.015451) for discrete early calving, 0.04 (± 0.003954) for calving interval, and 0.04 (± 0.009604) for first calving interval. We observed positive phenotypic and genetic correlations between these traits, ranging from 0.01 to 0.96 (Table 2). This work provides an extensive population survey of phenotypic trends in reproductive performance and management in a large seedstock population. The heritable nature of the inspected traits motivates further work in understanding their genetic architectures and how they are affected by heterosis in crossbreeding programs.

Report of a new species of sand fly, Phlebotomus (Anaphlebotomus) ajithii n. sp. (Diptera: Psychodidae), from Western Ghats, India

BackgroundWestern Ghats is a biodiversity treasure trove with reports of indigenous leishmaniasis cases. Hence, systematic sand fly surveillance was carried out among the tribal population. The present study reports a novel sand fly species, Phlebotomus (Anaphlebotomus) ajithii n. sp. (Diptera: Psychodidae), discovered in the Western Ghats of India.MethodsA comprehensive sand fly survey was conducted across the Kollam, Thrissur, Idukki, Kasaragod and Malappuram districts of Kerala, India. The survey spanned both indoor and outdoor habitats using standard collection methods over a 3-year, 3-month period. DNA barcoding of samples was performed targeting mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene, and the sequence generated was subjected to phylogenetic analysis.ResultsPhlebotomus (Anaphlebotomus) ajithii, a new sand fly species, is recorded and described in this communication. The morphological relationship of the new species to other members of the subgenus Anaphlebotomus is discussed. Mitochondrial COI barcode followed by phylogenetic analysis confirmed that specimens of Ph. ajithii belong to the same taxonomic group, while a genetic distance of 11.7% from congeners established it as a distinct species.ConclusionsThe Western Ghats, known for its rich biodiversity, has lacked systematic entomological surveys focusing on sand flies. This study aims to fill this gap and reports and describes a new species of sand fly.Graphical abstract

Discovering Classical Spin Liquids by Topological Search of High Symmetry Nets.

Spin liquids are a paradigmatic example of a nontrivial state of matter. The search for new spin liquids is a key interdisciplinary challenge. Geometrical frustration-where the geometry of the net that the spins occupy precludes the generation of a simple ordered state-is a particularly fruitful way to generate these intrinsically disordered states. Prior focus has been on a handful of high symmetry nets. There are, however, many three-dimensional nets, each of which has the potential to form unique states. In this paper, we investigate the high symmetry nets-those which are both vertex- and edge-transitive-for the simplest possible interaction sets: nearest-neighbor couplings of antiferromagnetic Heisenberg and Ising spins. While the well-known crs (pyrochlore) net is the only nearest-neighbor Heisenberg antiferromagnet which does not order, we identify two new frustrated nets (lcx and thp) possessing finite temperature Heisenberg spin-liquid states with strongly suppressed magnetic ordering and noncollinear ground states. With Ising spins, we identify three new classical spin liquids that do not order down to T/J = 0.01. We highlight materials that contain these high symmetry nets, and which could, if substituted with appropriate magnetic ions, potentially host these unusual states. Our systematic survey will guide searches for novel magnetic phases.

Sex talks-experiences with and barriers to communication about sexuality with healthcare staff among patients with anxiety disorder in Denmark.

Previous research among diverse patient populations suggests that healthcare staff routinely do not talk about sexuality with their patients even when such talks are highly indicated and relevant. In this study we sought to investigate how patients at outpatient anxiety clinics in Denmark experience sexual communication with healthcare staff and what barriers they encounter in this connection. We employed a survey design from January 1, 2018, to June 30, 2019. In collaboration with 11 outpatient anxiety clinics in Denmark, patients with a primary diagnosis of panic disorder, social phobia, generalized anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder were invited to participate in the study. The final sample included 272 patients. Survey questions were related to sociodemographic characteristics, sexual activity and dysfunctions, pharmacological treatment adherence, anxiety and depression symptoms, and experience with and barriers to sexual communication. For each participant, clinicians at the clinics provided the International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision, diagnostic codes, medications, and dosage. Study inclusion criteria were not having an organic disorder that may cause anxiety, not having a previous diagnosis of bipolar affective disorder or schizophrenia, and the ability to speak and read Danish. Outcomes included patients' experiences with and barriers to sexual communication with healthcare staff. In total, 61% of the patients in this sample group found it relevant to talk to healthcare staff about sexuality but only 28% of the study patients had done so, of whom 83% reported this communication to be a positive experience. The most frequently reported patient barriers to communication with healthcare professionals regarding sexual concerns were a belief that if sexual matters were relevant, the healthcare staff would bring it up (94%), fear of transgressing their own boundaries (94%), embarrassment (92%), and lack of knowledge as to how to start a conversation about sex (91%). The study results indicated a need for healthcare staff to routinely map out and address sexual matters in their clinical work with anxiety patients while bearing in mind the common patient barriers for this topic. This study included a large clinical outpatient sample of anxiety patients and an extensive survey. However, the results may not be generalizable across all anxiety patients or patients in general. The results of this study strongly indicate that a majority of anxiety patients find it both relevant and beneficial to discuss sexual matters with healthcare staff in connection with their anxiety treatment, and therefore healthcare staff should be educated and equipped to routinely address these matters while bearing in mind the most common patient barriers for conversations about sexuality.

Landscape positioning of Neolithic mustatil stone structures along the margins of the Nefud Desert, Saudi Arabia

Monumental rectangular stone structures called mustatils are an important emerging feature of the Holocene archaeological record of northwestern Arabia. To date, few have been excavated, with available radiocarbon dates suggesting an age range of ca. 5400–4200 BC. Here we present a rigorous spatial analysis to identify the patterning and landscape context of 169 mustatils in the southern and western margins of the Nefud Desert. This included: (1) a systematic survey of satellite imagery to identify mustatils; (2) viewshed analysis to examine location and landscape visibility; (3) a point process model to understand how diverse environmental and landscape variables affect mustatil locations; (4) mark correlation function to assess spatial patterning of mustatils based on their size. Results indicate that mustatil locations are determined most by proximity to water (likely locations of enhanced surface water occurrence under the enhanced humidity of the Mid-Holocene), on east facing slopes, close to rocky areas, at elevations between 880 and 950 masl, and on or near topographic ridges (positive topographic position index). Viewshed analysis showed that mustatils are preferentially located in areas that have good views, but not the best that are available, indicating complex landscape positioning that balances a range of topographic and behavioural factors. Using a rank permutation method with size (length) of mustatils as a proxy for labour mobilization we show that mustatils within clusters are not arranged hierarchically based on size, and were likely built by non-stratified groups of people. Our analyses show that people were choosing multiple factors when deciding where to build mustatils, and that the distribution of mustatils may relate to different groups of people resulting in the construction of complex ritual landscapes. As one of the earliest examples of large-scale monumental stone structure construction in global prehistory, understanding mustatils can enlighten us on human-environment interaction during the Neolithic.

Predictive GAM seabed maps can account for defined and fuzzy boundaries to improve accuracy in a Scottish sea loch seascape

Marine seabed mapping is an important element in marine spatial and conservation planning. Recent large scale mapping programmes have greatly increased our knowledge of the seafloor, yet at finer resolutions, large gaps remain. Loch Eriboll, Scotland, is an area of conservation interest with a diverse marine environment supporting habitats and species of conservation importance. Here we test and present strategies for a predictive seabed substrata map for Loch Eriboll using drop down Stereo Baited Remote Underwater Video (SBRUV) imagery collected as part of systematic underwater survey of the Loch. A total of 216 SBRUV deployments were made across the study site in depths of 3 m–117 m, with six seabed classes identified using an adaptation of the EUNIS (European Nature Information System) hierarchical habitat classification scheme. Four statistical learning approaches were tested, we found, Generalised Additive Models (GAMs) provided the optimal balance between over- and underfitted predictions. We demonstrate the creation of a predictive substratum habitat map covering 63 km2 of seabed which predicts the probability of presence and relative proportion of substratum types. Our method enables naturally occurring edges between habitat patches to be described well, increasing the accuracy of mapping habitat boundaries when compared to categorical approaches. The predictions allow for both defined boundaries such as those between sand and rock and fuzzy boundaries seen among fine mixed sediments to exist in the same model structure. We demonstrate that SBRUV imagery can be used to generate cost effective, fine scale predictive substrata maps that can inform marine planning. The modelling procedure presented has the potential for a wide adoption by marine stakeholders and could be used to establish baselines for long term monitoring of benthic habitats and further research such as animal distribution and movement work which require detailed benthic maps.

Vulnerabilities and Security Patches Detection in OSS: A Survey

Over the past decade, Open Source Software (OSS) has experienced rapid growth and widespread adoption, attributed to its openness and editability. However, this expansion has also brought significant security challenges, particularly introducing and propagating software vulnerabilities. Despite the use of machine learning and formal methods to tackle these issues, there remains a notable gap in comprehensive surveys that summarize and analyze both vulnerability detection (VD) and security patch detection (SPD) in OSS. This article seeks to bridge this gap through an extensive survey that evaluates 127 technical studies published between 2014 and 2023, structured around the Vulnerability-Patch life cycle. We begin by delineating the six critical events that constitute the Vulnerability-Patch life cycle, leading to an in-depth exploration of the Vulnerability-Patch Ecosystem. We then systematically review the databases commonly used in VD and SPD, and analyze their characteristics. Subsequently, we examine existing VD methods, focusing on traditional and deep learning-based approaches. Additionally, we organize current security patch identification methods by kernel type and discuss techniques for detecting the presence of security patches. Based on our comprehensive review, we identify open research questions and propose future research directions that merit further exploration.

Determining the legality of newly described CITES-listed species in the horticulture trade of tropical pitcher plants (Nepenthes).

Due diligence is a fundamental component of ensuring a sustainable and legal wildlife trade that is also supportive of the livelihoods and businesses that depend on the trade. This is particularly true with species listed on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) that are considered threatened or may become threatened by trade. Undertaking due diligence exercises requires access to information on which to base such decisions; however, the extent to which information is available is unclear. We used the trade in tropical pitcher plants (Nepenthes) for horticultural purposes as a case study to determine the extent to which information is available. A systematic survey of online trade was conducted for species described from 1996 to 2016. For the species found in trade, these were cross-referenced with the CITES trade database, and inquiries were made to the relevant CITES Management Authorities and National Focal Points Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS). Of 83 newly described species, 61% were offered for sale online in 2018. Despite all Nepenthes species being listed on CITES, only 23% (n=19) of the species being sold online were reported in trade on the CITES Trade Database, and only 3 were from the countries of origin. Thirty-two of these species had no international trade recorded according to the database. Management authorities of CITES for the countries of origin confirmed trade had been permitted for 5 of 32 species. Lack of CITES records may be explained by trade under "Nepenthes spp." or as exempt parts and derivatives. However, permits to collect and commercialize are likely to be required as part of the Nagoya Protocol on ABS from the Convention on Biological Diversity. The ABS National Focal Points were contacted to determine whether collection or commercialization permits had been issued for the remaining species. Only 2 of 7 focal points replied, and both stated no permits had been issued. Lack of traceability information or response related to the issuance of collection and commercialization permits is concerning and hinders the due diligence of businesses and consumers wanting to ensure their trade is legal, sustainable, and ethical.

Geolocation of Old Photographs and Rephotography in the Field: Contribution to a New Understanding of the al-ʿŪla Oasis in the Early 20th Century a.d.

ABSTRACT Historical photographs are commonly available in landscape archaeology; however, they are rarely used systematically for the maximum benefit in terms of spatial and temporal information. In the framework of the al-ʿŪla Cultural Oasis Project (funded and steered by the French Agency for AlUla Development on behalf of the Royal Commission for AlUla), photographs taken at ground level by the Dominican Fathers Antonin Jaussen and Raphaël Savignac in the early 20th century a.d. were geolocated by identifying mountain peaks in the background and comparing distance ratios (on the photos) with angle ratios (on GIS). These locations were then visited in the field to re-take the photographs. This work demonstrates the value of recontextualized ground-level photographs to improve our knowledge of archaeological landscapes when cross-referenced with data from a systematic archaeological survey. We also propose a reproducible methodology for geolocating historical photographs in similar or other contexts.