bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semi-explicit integration of second order for weakly coupled poroelasticity
Authors: Altmann R. , Maier R. , Unger B.
Published: April 2024

We introduce a semi-explicit time-stepping scheme of second order for linear poroelasticity satisfying a weak coupling condition. Here, semi-explicit means that the system, which needs to be solved in each step, decouples and hence improves the computational efficiency. The construction and the convergence proof are based on the connection to a differential equation with two time delays, namely one and two times the step size. Numerical experiments confirm the theoretical results and indicate the applicability to higher-order schemes.
Body composition measures as a determinant of Alpelisib related toxicity
Authors: Shachar Eliya , Raphael Ari , Katz Uriel , Kessner Rivka , Shachar Shlomit Strulov
Published: April 2024

Background

Body composition has emerged as an important prognostic factor in patients treated with cancer. Severe depletion of skeletal muscle, sarcopenia, has been associated with poor performance status and worse oncological outcomes. We studied patients with metastatic breast cancer receiving alpelisib, to determine if sarcopenia and additional body composition measures accounting for muscle and adiposity are associated with toxicity.

Methods

A retrospective observational analysis was conducted, including 38 women with metastatic breast cancer and a PIK3CA mutation, treated with alpelisib as advanced line of therapy. Sarcopenia was determined by measuring skeletal muscle cross-sectional area at the third lumbar vertebra using computerized tomography. Various body composition metrics were assessed along with drug toxicity, dose reductions, treatment discontinuation, hospitalizations, time to treatment failure and overall survival.

Results

Sarcopenia was observed in half of the patients (n = 19, 50%), spanning normal weight, overweight, and obese individuals. Among the body composition measures, lower skeletal muscle density (SMD) was associated with an increased risk of treatment-related hyperglycaemia (P = 0.03). Additionally, lower visceral adipose tissue (VAT) was associated with alpelisib-induced rash (P = 0.04) and hospitalizations (P = 0.04). Notably, alpelisib treatment discontinuation was not impacted by alpelisib toxicity.

Conclusion

Body composition measures, specifically SMD and VAT may provide an opportunity to identify patients at higher risk for severe alpelisib related hyperglycemia, and cutaneous toxicity. These findings suggest the potential use of body composition assessment to caution toxicity risk, allowing for personalized therapeutic observation and intervention.
A systematic mapping on software testing for blockchains
Authors: Elakaş Anıl , Sözer Hasan , Şafak Ilgın , Kalkan Kübra
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study is to identify and classify studies published on software testing techniques applied to blockchain systems. Previously published reviews in related areas have a narrow focus and/or do not follow a systematic review protocol. We conducted a systematic mapping based on an initial selection of 1025 studies. A rigorous selection process resulted in a final pool of 17 primary studies. These studies are categorized with respect to the employed testing methods, considered quality attributes, and functionality. We observe that most of the publications focus on testing functional correctness or security, whereas the testing of runtime performance attracts less attention. Existing approaches mostly employ fuzz testing or mutation testing. Search-based testing is usually combined with these techniques. The application of model-based testing is rare. The adaptability of fuzz testing and model-based testing techniques to changing blockchain platforms and languages remains a concern. On the other hand, performance and scalability issues are noted for search-based techniques and mutation testing. The use and integration of multiple testing techniques also stand out as a viable research direction.
Autism Knowledge Assessments: A Closer Examination of Validity by Autism Experts
Authors: McMahon Camilla M. , McClain Maryellen Brunson , Wells Savannah , Thompson Sophia , Shahidullah Jeffrey D.
Published: April 2024

Purpose: The goal of the current study was to conduct a substantive validity review of four autism knowledge assessments with prior psychometric support (Gillespie-Lynch in J Autism and Dev Disord 45(8):2553–2566, 2015; Harrison in J Autism and Dev Disord 47(10):3281–3295, 2017; McClain in J Autism and Dev Disord 50(3):998–1006, 2020; McMahon in Res Autism Spectr Disord 71:101499, 2020). 69 autism experts who served on the editorial board of one or more peer-reviewed autism journals evaluated the accuracy and ambiguity of autism knowledge questions. 34% of the questions were flagged as “potentially problematic” for accuracy, and 17% of the questions were flagged as “potentially problematic” for ambiguity. Autism expert feedback revealed three themes across ambiguous questions: (1) an oversimplification of mixed or still-evolving research literature, (2) an insufficient recognition of the heterogeneity of the autism spectrum, and (3) a lack of clarity in the question/answer prompt. Substantive validity of future autism knowledge assessments should be carefully evaluated via feedback from a diverse group of autism experts and/or potential respondents. Potentially problematic questions can be removed or modified to improve the validity of autism knowledge assessments.
Minimizing Questionable Research Practices – The Role of Norms, Counter Norms, and Micro-Organizational Ethics Discussion
Authors: Karabag Solmaz Filiz , Berggren Christian , Pielaszkiewicz Jolanta , Gerdin Bengt
Published: April 2024

Breaches of research integrity have gained considerable attention due to high-profile scandals involving questionable research practices by reputable scientists. These practices include plagiarism, manipulation of authorship, biased presentation of findings and misleading reports of significance. To combat such practices, policymakers tend to rely on top-down measures, mandatory ethics training and stricter regulation, despite limited evidence of their effectiveness. In this study, we investigate the occurrence and underlying factors of questionable research practices (QRPs) through an original survey of 3,005 social and medical researchers at Swedish universities. By comparing the role of the organizational culture, researchers´ norms and counter norms, and individual motivation, the study reveals that the counter norm of Biasedness—the opposite of universalism and skepticism—is the overall most important factor. Thus, Biasedness was related to 40–60% of the prevalence of the questionable practices. The analysis also reveals the contradictory impact of other elements in the organizational environment. Internal competition was positively associated with QRP prevalence, while group-level ethics discussions consistently displayed a negative association with such practices. Furthermore, in the present study items covering ethics training and policies have only a marginal impact on the prevalence of these practices. The organizational climate and normative environment have a far greater influence. Based on these findings, it is suggested that academic leaders should prioritize the creation and maintenance of an open and unbiased research environment, foster a collaborative and collegial climate, and promote bottom-up ethics discussions within and between research groups.
Evaluating the efficacy of coconut oil as thermal storage media for enhancing solar drying performance of wood fuels
Authors: Kumar Baibhaw , Raj Arun K. , Szepesi Gábor , Szamosi Zoltán
Published: April 2024

The appropriate storage, transportation, and utilization of wood-based fuels, including woodchips, pellets, and sawdust, in the energy production process, depends on their efficient drying. Traditional drying methods include limitations such as high thermal losses, inefficient heat transfer, and sustainability issues. These barriers, coupled with the high costs and complexities of maintaining the desired moisture content, underscore the need for innovative solutions. This study introduces a novel approach to wood fuel drying through the integration of phase-change materials (PCMs) with hybrid solar drying systems, aimed at enhancing thermal efficiency and sustainability. Employing coconut oil as the PCM, experiments were performed under a consistent artificial radiation of 755 W m−2. The hybrid system demonstrated the capability to retain approximately 200 watts of useful heat for three hours post-radiation, marking a significant improvement in heat storage. Our findings reveal peak thermal and exergy efficiencies of 30–35% and 13–14%, respectively. An economic and environmental analysis predicts a system lifespan of five years, with the cost of generating one kilogram of hot air at 0.0058 EUR and an annual CO2 emission of 64.09 kg. This research offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method for wood fuel drying, presenting a significant advancement for large-scale producers and setting a benchmark for further exploration of wood fuel drying technologies.
Limit analysis of masonry arches and domes with finite strength: funicular analysis versus stability area method
Authors: Aita Danila , Bruggi Matteo , Taliercio Alberto
Published: April 2024

This study, framed within the context of the lower bound theorem of limit analysis, aims to assess the anti-funicular equilibrium of masonry arches and domes using a computational approach based on the constrained force density method. In contrast to the commonly adopted classical Heyman’s assumptions, the approach proposed here considers the effects of finite compressive strength in the material. Assuming a fixed plan projection for a network with independent sets of branches, a suitable set of local constraints is enforced at each joint to account for the limit bending moment resulting from the material’s assumptions, including limited compressive strength and zero tensile strength. Additionally, the stereotomy of the voussoirs is considered by assigning a geometric law to the joint inclination. The collapse load is determined by formulating a multi-constrained maximization problem. The method is validated using a modern version of the semi-analytical Durand-Claye’s method. For benchmark case studies, such as symmetric masonry arches and domes with specific stereotomies subjected to axi-symmetrical load conditions, the set of statically admissible solutions compatible with equilibrium and strength requirements is graphically determined in terms of the horizontal thrust and its eccentricity at the crown, examining the shape of the stability area. Assuming an infinite value for the friction coefficient, the collapse condition is reached when the stability area shrinks to a single point. The results obtained from both of these methods are in excellent agreement. The influence of compressive strength on the bearing capacity of the structures is also discussed.
Semantic Spectral Clustering with Contrastive Learning and Neighbor Mining
Authors: Wang Nongxiao , Ye Xulun , Zhao Jieyu , Wang Qing
Published: April 2024

Deep spectral clustering techniques are considered one of the most efficient clustering algorithms in data mining field. The similarity between instances and the disparity among classes are two critical factors in clustering fields. However, most current deep spectral clustering approaches do not sufficiently take them both into consideration. To tackle the above issue, we propose Semantic Spectral clustering with Contrastive learning and Neighbor mining (SSCN) framework, which performs instance-level pulling and cluster-level pushing cooperatively. Specifically, we obtain the semantic feature embedding using an unsupervised contrastive learning model. Next, we obtain the nearest neighbors partially and globally, and the neighbors along with data augmentation information enhance their effectiveness collaboratively on the instance level as well as the cluster level. The spectral constraint is applied by orthogonal layers to satisfy conventional spectral clustering. Extensive experiments demonstrate the superiority of our proposed frame of spectral clustering.
Shedding light on foreign currency cash flow hedges: transparency and the hedging decision
Authors: Jin Han , Marshall Beverly B.
Published: April 2024

Utilizing firms in the S&P 500, we study whether greater transparency in the reporting of other comprehensive income (OCI) items, as mandated by ASU 2011-05, resulted in a reduction in information asymmetry, a change in the value relevance of this information, or a change in hedging practice. Our results show that while transparent reporting reduced information asymmetry, firms that engage in cash flow hedging do have greater information asymmetry than their counterparts that do not hedge. We find evidence that investors penalize firm value for greater volatility of OCI relative to net income volatility when reported transparently. When permitted, managers were able to mitigate the negative impact by reporting OCI only in the Statement of Shareholders’ Equity. We conclude that managers’ concerns regarding potential confusion surrounding OCI volatility following more prominent reporting led to changes in hedging behavior. After transparent reporting, we find a reduced likelihood of foreign currency cash flow (FXCF) hedges and a reduced level of FXCF hedging among firms experiencing the greatest volatility of unrealized hedging gains and losses.
Research collaboration and knowledge development in Africa: the case of neonatal conditions
Authors: Vieira Elizabeth S.
Published: April 2024

The literature has discussed the positive/negative effects of research collaboration (RC). However, no study looks at the effect of RC especially international research collaboration (IRC) on key developments in a research area. Using Main Path Analysis (MPA), I examined the literature on neonatal conditions (NC) produced by African scientists between 2000 and 2019. I found the (1) estimates of deaths of children under five years and their causes, with a focus on neonates and stillbirths, (2) usefulness of tools to collect data on NC-related variables, (3) identification of interventions to reduce deaths, and (4) treatment of hyperbilirubinemia in African neonates as the most important developments in NC in Africa. The high presence of articles with RC, in the MPA, especially those involving IRC between one or more scientists from a single African country and scientists from several non-African countries (60% of the studies) highlights the positive effect of RC on key developments of an area. About 40% of the articles refer the Saving Newborns Lives programme, the Child Health Epidemiology Reference Group (CHERG) or the departments of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Friction in Rolling a Cylinder on or Under a Viscoelastic Substrate with Adhesion
Authors: Nazari R. , Papangelo A. , Ciavarella M.
Published: April 2024

In classical experiments, it has been found that a rigid cylinder can roll both on and under an inclined rubber plane with a friction force that depends on a power law of velocity, independent of the sign of the normal force. Further, contact area increases significantly with velocity with a related power law. We try to model qualitatively these experiments with a numerical boundary element solution with a standard linear solid and we find for sufficiently large Maugis–Tabor parameter $$\lambda$$
λ
qualitative agreement with experiments. However, friction force increases linearly with velocity at low velocities (like in the case with no adhesive hysteresis) and then decays at large speeds. Quantitative agreement with the Persson–Brener theory of crack propagation is found for the two power law regimes, but when Maugis–Tabor parameter $$\lambda$$
λ
is small, the cut-off stress in Persson–Brener theory depends on all the other dimensionless parameters of the problem.
A Compressive Sensing Based Computationally Efficient High-Resolution DOA Estimation of Wideband Signals Using Generalized Coprime Arrays
Authors: El-Khamy Said E. , El-Shazly Ahmed M. , Eltrass Ahmed S.
Published: April 2024

Most recent state-of-the-art wideband direction of arrival (DOA) estimation techniques achieve reasonable accuracy at the expenses of high computational complexity. In this paper, a new computationally efficient approach based on compressive sensing (CS) is introduced for high resolution wideband DOA estimation. The low software complexity is achieved utilizing CS with deterministic chaotic Chebyshev sensing matrices that allow reducing the measurement vector dimension, while the high-resolution DOA estimation is acquired utilizing an efficient generalized coprime array configuration. The effectiveness of the introduced approach in enhancing the DOA estimation precision and reducing the computational complexity is studied along with a detailed comparison between three state-of-the-art wideband DOA estimation techniques, namely incoherent signal subspace method (ISSM), focusing signal subspace (FSS), and modified test of orthogonality of projected subspaces (mTOPS) with and without applying the proposed CS technique. The performance is examined utilizing various assessment metrics such as the spatial spectrum, the computational time, and the root mean square error between estimated and actual DOAs when varying the signal-to-noise ratio and number of elements. Results reveal that applying the proposed CS technique to the three algorithms (ISSM, FSS, and mTOPS) provides significant reduction in the execution time needed for the DOA estimation without affecting the resolution accuracy under various set of parameters. This reveals the importance of the proposed approach in wideband wireless communication systems.
Promoting pre-service teachers’ knowledge integration from multiple text sources across domains with instructional prompts
Authors: Hähnlein Inka Sara , Pirnay-Dummer Pablo
Published: April 2024

Multiple document comprehension and knowledge integration across domains are particularly important for pre-service teachers, as integrated professional knowledge forms the basis for teaching expertise and competence. This study examines the effects of instructional prompts and relevance prompts embedded in pre-service teachers’ learning processes on the quality their knowledge integration in multiple document comprehension across domains. 109 pre-service teachers participated in an experimental study. They read four texts on “competencies” from different knowledge domains and wrote a text on a given scenario. Experimental group 1 was aided with instructional and relevance prompts, while experimental group 2 received only relevance prompts. The control group received no prompting. Perceived relevance of knowledge integration was assessed in a pre-post-test. Pre-service teachers’ separative and integrative learning, epistemological beliefs, metacognition, study-specific self-concept, and post-experimental motivation were assessed as control variables. Participants’ texts were analyzed concerning knowledge integration by raters and with computer linguistic measures. A key finding is that combined complex prompting enhances pre-service teachers perceived relevance of knowledge integration. This study found effects of prompting types on the pre-service teachers’ semantic knowledge structures. Implications for transfer are discussed.
Relationship of mTORC1 and ferroptosis in tumors
Authors: Liao Huilin , Wang Yueqing , Zou Lili , Fan Yanmei , Wang Xinyue , Tu Xiancong , Zhu Qiaobai , Wang Jun , Liu Xiaowen , Dong Chuanjiang
Published: April 2024

Ferroptosis is a novel form of programmed death, dependent on iron ions and oxidative stress, with a predominant intracellular form of lipid peroxidation. In recent years, ferroptosis has gained more and more interest of people in the treatment mechanism of targeted tumors. mTOR, always overexpressed in the tumor, and controlling cell growth and metabolic activities, has an important role in both autophagy and ferroptosis. Interestingly, the selective types of autophay plays an important role in promoting ferroptosis, which is related to mTOR and some metabolic pathways (especially in iron and amino acids). In this paper, we list the main mechanisms linking ferroptosis with mTOR signaling pathway and further summarize the current compounds targeting ferroptosis in these ways. There are growing experimental evidences that targeting mTOR and ferroptosis may have effective impact in many tumors, and understanding the mechanisms linking mTOR to ferroptosis could provide a potential therapeutic approach for tumor treatment.
Conjugation prepared by wet-Maillard reactions improves the stability and properties of lutein and lycopene loaded nanoparticles
Authors: Dursun Capar Tugba , Yalcin Hasan
Published: April 2024

In this study, lutein and lycopene were encapsulated in plant protein (faba bean protein concentrate, (FPC))-carrageenan (Car) conjugates prepared by Maillard reaction in an aqueous media. The conjugation improved encapsulation yield that reached to 82.69% and 93.07%, for lycopene and lutein, respectively. The mean particle diameters for lutein loaded nanoparticles observed smaller in FPC-Car conjugates (66.60 nm) than FPC (71.49 nm). Scanning electron microscopy images showed that FPC-Car conjugates were more spherical and no fractures or fissures on the surface, revealing that wall materials provided better protection and retention for core materials. The diameter of lycopene nanoparticles coated with FPC remained constant between pH 3–4 and 7–9 but increased to 220 nm at pH 4–6. Even though the diameter of lutein nanoparticles coated with FPC remains steady between pH 5 and 9, increased to 953 nm at pH 3. The bioaccessibility of the lutein or lycopene samples encapsulated by FPC were found as higher than FPC-Car conjugates. These findings suggest that protein-polysaccharide conjugates could be used as a wall material to encapsulate lipophilic lutein and lycopene in order to improve their stability, property and bioaccessibility. As a result, FPC-Car conjugates may be an alternative for the formation of functional beverages as well as other nutraceutical products.

Graphical abstract
Mammal recovery inside and outside terrestrial protected areas
Authors: Magoulick Katherine M. , Hull Vanessa , Liu Jianguo
Published: April 2024

Protected areas are a key component of global conservation, and the world is aiming to increase protected areas to cover 30% of land and water through the 30 × 30 Initiative under the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework. However, factors affecting their success or failure in regard to promoting mammal population recovery are not well studied, particularly using quantitative approaches comparing across diverse taxa, biomes, and countries. To better understand how protected areas contribute to mammalian recovery, we conducted an analysis of 2706 mammal populations both inside and outside of protected areas worldwide. We calculated the annual percent change of mammal populations within and outside of terrestrial protected areas and examined the relationship between the percent change and a suite of human and natural characteristics including biome, region, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) protected area category, IUCN Red List classification, and taxonomic order. Our results show that overall mammal populations inside and outside of protected areas are relatively stable. It appears that Threatened mammals are doing better inside of protected areas than outside, whereas the opposite is true for species of least concern and Near Threatened species. We also found significant population increases in protected areas classified as category III and significant population decreases in protected and unprotected areas throughout Oceania. Our results demonstrate that terrestrial protected areas can be an important approach for mammalian recovery and conservation.
Changes in the ultrasound presentation of hepatocellular carcinoma: a center’s three decades of experience
Authors: Giannitrapani Lydia , Amodeo Simona , Mirarchi Luigi , Terranova Antonino , Seidita Aurelio , Mozzini Chiara , Cabibi Daniela , Brancatelli Giuseppe , Licata Anna , Soresi Maurizio
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Ultrasound (US) surveillance is a cornerstone for early diagnosis of HCC, anyway US presentation has undergone significant changes. With the aim of evaluating the effects of US surveillance program in the real-world clinical practice, we wanted to evaluate US presentation of HCCs over the last 30 years and the differences of HCCs presentation according to etiology.

Methods

174 patients diagnosed between 1993 and 98 (G1), 96 between 2003 and 08 (G2), 102 between 2013 and 18 (G3), were compared. US patterns were: single, multiple or diffuse nodules. The echo-patterns: iso-, hypo-, hyper-echoic, or mixed.

In G1, the HCC diagnosis was mainly histologic; in G2 by EASL 2001 and AASLD 2005, in G3 AASLD 2011, EASL 2012, and AISF 2013 guidelines.

Results

HCV was the most frequent etiology, dropping between G1 (81%) and G3 (66%) (P < 0.01), metabolic increased between G1 (5%) and G3 (14%) (P < 0.01). Single HCC was more prevalent in G3 vs G1 (65.6% vs 40%) (P < 0.0001), multiple nodules in G1 (50%) vs G3 (33.3%) (P < 0.02) and diffuse in G1 (16%) vs G2 (2%) and vs G3 (1%) (P < 0.001). The most frequent echo-pattern was hypo-echoic G1 (50%) vs G2 (79%) and G1 vs G3 (65%) (P < 0.01). Iso-echoic pattern was the least frequent (7–12%). Mixed pattern decreased from G1 (28%) to G3 (12%) (P < 0.002). In G3 there were more multiple or diffuse HCCs in metabolic (P < 0.03).

Conclusion

US presentation became less severe due to surveillance programs. HCV remains the most frequent cause, an increase in metabolic etiology has been shown throughout the decades.

Graphical abstract
Configuration spaces and multiple positive solutions to a singularly perturbed elliptic system
Authors: Clapp Mónica , Saldaña Alberto , Szulkin Andrzej
Published: April 2024

We consider a weakly coupled singularly perturbed variational elliptic system in a bounded smooth domain with Dirichlet boundary conditions. We show that, in the competitive regime, the number of fully nontrivial solutions with nonnegative components increases with the number of equations. Our proofs use a combination of four key elements: a convenient variational approach, the asymptotic behavior of solutions (concentration), the Lusternik–Schnirelman theory, and new estimates on the category of suitable configuration spaces.
Magnetic reconnection in the magnetodisk of centrifugally dominated giant planets
Authors: Guo Ruilong , Yao Zhonghua
Published: April 2024

Magnetic reconnection is crucial in understanding magnetospheric dynamics and aurorae processes at planets. In planetary magnetospheres, magnetic reconnection has often been identified on the dayside magnetopause and in the nightside magnetodisk, where thin-current-sheet conditions are conducive to reconnection. At the Earth, the magnetopause and magnetotail current sheets are primarily controlled by the upstream solar wind. At Jupiter and Saturn, their fast rotation and internal mass sources lead to an additional current sheet that encircles the planet, forming a magnetodisk inside the magnetosphere. The reconnection processes in the magnetodisk current sheet are associated with centrifugal force-driven dynamics. The magnetodisk reconnection is not limited to the nightside but is discretely distributed at all local times inside the magnetosphere. The reconnection sites also rotate with the magnetosphere. These widely distributed small-scale reconnection sites can result in the global release of energy and mass from the magnetosphere.
Ventilator-associated pneumonia diagnosis: electrochemical sensors for rapid and sensitive detection of pyocyanin
Authors: Noorizadeh Mohammad , Al-Hasan Tamim M. , Sha Mizaj S. , Bensaali Faycal , Meskin Nader , Sadasivuni Kishor K. , Zughaier Susu M. , Elgamal Mahmoud , Hssain Ali Ait
Published: April 2024

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a severe condition in critically ill patients that requires timely diagnosis to improve patient outcomes. In this study, we developed an electrochemical sensor for pyocyanin detection using a TiO$$_2$$

2

-NiO-rGO catalyst and found that it could detect the concentration of pyocyanin required for mimicking the throat trachea’s environment (LOD: 0.2 $$\mu $$
μ
g/mL). We also investigated using DNA aptamer for detecting pyocyanin, a biomarker of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common causative agent of VAP. Our findings suggest that the TiO$$_2$$

2

-NiO-rGO catalyst without aptamer could provide a rapid and cost-effective diagnostic tool for VAP, and the electrochemical sensor has the potential to be made disposable for in vivo applications. Using the TiO$$_2$$

2

-NiO-rGO catalyst offers synergistic effects that enhance the detection process’s overall electrochemical performance, sensitivity, and selectivity. This work’s results demonstrate that electrochemical detection of pyocyanin using a TiO$$_2$$

2

-NiO-rGO catalyst holds great potential for various applications, such as clinical diagnostics and drug discovery. Further research and optimization of the catalyst composition, morphology, and surface modifications can contribute to advancing this pyocyanin electrochemical detection approach.
Environmental remediation and the efficacy of ceramic membranes in wastewater treatment—a review
Authors: Jarrar Rouzait , Abbas M. K. G. , Al-Ejji Maryam
Published: April 2024

Ceramic membranes are gaining rapid traction in water and wastewater treatment applications due to their inherent advantages, such as chemical/thermal stability, low fouling propensity, and extended lifespan. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of ceramic membranes, exploring their composition, fabrication techniques, filtration principles, and diverse applications. Various types of ceramic membranes, including alumina, zirconia, titania, silica, and zeolite, are discussed. As global challenges related to water scarcity and pollution intensify, the implementation of ceramic membranes offers a sustainable and effective approach for water and wastewater treatment and safeguarding vital water resources. Despite the dominance of polymeric membranes in the field, the constant pursuit of reduced production costs and the apparent benefits of ceramic membrane are fueling their rapid growth. The review also examines applications that demonstrate the effectiveness of pressure-driven ceramic membrane technology for treating industrial wastewaters from diverse industries, including textile, pharmaceutical, and petrochemical. While the technology shows efficiency in various wastewater treatment scenarios, future research should focus on optimizing investment costs through new fabrication technologies, improving selectivity, permeability, and packing densities, minimizing fouling, and proposing scale-up strategies based on experimental research results. The collective findings reveal the potential of ceramic membranes to revolutionize wastewater treatment and environmental remediation.
Recent trends on energy-efficient solar dryers for food and agricultural products drying: a review
Authors: Venkateswarlu Kavati , Reddy S. V. Kota
Published: April 2024

The energy efficiency enhancement of solar dryers has attracted the attention of researchers worldwide because of the need for energy storage in solar drying applications, which arises primarily from the irregular nature of solar energy that leads to improper drying which will reduce the quality of the products being dried. This work comprehensively reviews the state-of-the-art research carried out on solar dryers for energy efficiency enhancement using various alternative strategies, including hybrid solar dryers that use auxiliary heating sources, such as electric heaters or biomass heaters, solar-assisted heat pump dryer, use of desiccant materials, and heat storage systems that use both sensible and latent heat storage. The advent of phase change materials (PCM), such as thermally and chemically stable PCMs, for long-term storage, bio-degradable and bio-compatible PCM materials to alleviate the negative environmental impact of conventional PCMs is also presented. The performance parameters considered for evaluating dryers include the maximum temperature attained inside the drying chamber, drying time and efficiency, specific moisture extraction rate (SMER), energy and exergy efficiency and CO2 mitigation effect. The factors considered to analyze the PCMs application in solar dryers include cost and sustainability of PCMs, and both energy and exergy analyses of dryers using PCMs. The gaps in current knowledge and future scope for further improvement of solar dryers are also elucidated.

Graphical abstract
aiWATERS: an artificial intelligence framework for the water sector
Authors: Vekaria Darshan , Sinha Sunil
Published: April 2024

The presence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) applications has led to its widespread adoption across diverse domains. AI is making its way into industry, beyond research and academia. Concurrently, the water sector is undergoing a digital transformation. Water utilities in the United States are at different stages in their journey of digital transformation, and the decision makers in water sector, who are non-expert stakeholders in AI applications, need to better understand this technology to make informed decisions. While AI has numerous benefits to offer, there are also many challenges related to data, model development, knowledge integration and ethical concerns that should be considered before implementing it for real world applications. Civil engineering is a licensed profession where critical decision making is involved. Therefore, trust in any decision support technology is critical for its acceptance in real-world applications. Therefore, this research proposes a framework called aiWATERS (Artificial Intelligence for the Water Sector) which can serve as a guide for the water utilities to successfully implement AI in their system. Based on this framework, we conduct pilot interviews and surveys with various small, medium, and large water utilities in the United States (US) to capture their current state of AI implementation and identify the challenges faced by them. The research findings reveal that most of the water utilities in the United States are at an early stage of implementing AI as they face concerns regarding the black box nature, trustworthiness, and sustainability of AI technology in their system. The aiWATERS framework is intended to help the utilities navigate through these issues in their journey of digital transformation.
Glioma-associated macrophages: unraveling their dual role in the microenvironment and therapeutic implications
Authors: Wang Jiachen , Li Shenglan , Lan Yanjie , Liu Xinrui , Li Wenbin
Published: April 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a malignant brain glioma characterized by a high number of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) within its tissues. These TAMs have a close relationship with tumor grade and prognosis. Targeting TAMs has been identified as a promising therapeutic strategy. However, TAM cells play both tumor-killing and tumor-promoting roles, making them a double-edged sword in the immune environment. The different subtypes of macrophages and their effects on the tumor microenvironment remain poorly understood. This study comprehensively elucidates the immunobiology of glioma-associated macrophages (GAMs), including their origin, classification, molecular mechanisms underlying glioma promotion and inhibition, polarization strategies, targeted therapy for GAMs and the current challenges and perspectives in immune modulation. Further research on macrophage function and mechanism may provide a new immunological basis for treating GBM patients and enhancing the efficacy of glioma immunotherapy.
Bioanalytical technologies using temperature-responsive polymers
Authors: Nagase Kenichi
Published: April 2024

In recent decades, various bioanalytical technologies have been investigated for appropriate medical treatment and effective therapy. Temperature-responsive chromatography is a promising bioanalytical technology owing to its functional properties. Temperature-responsive chromatography uses a poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)(PNIPAAm) modified stationary phase as the column packing material. The hydrophobic interactions between PNIPAAm and the analyte could be modulated by changing the column temperature because of the temperature-responsive hydrophobicity of PNIPAAm. Thus, the chromatography system does not require organic solvents in the mobile phase, making it suitable for therapeutic drug monitoring in medical settings such as hospitals. This review summarizes recent developments in temperature-responsive chromatography systems for therapeutic drug monitoring applications. In addition, separation methods for antibody drugs using PNIPAAm are also summarized because these methods apply to the therapeutic drug monitoring of biopharmaceutics. The temperature-responsive chromatography systems can also be utilized for clinical diagnosis, as they can assess multiple medicines simultaneously. This highlights the significant potential of temperature-responsive chromatography in medicine and healthcare.

Graphical abstract
Developing campus digital twin using interactive visual analytics approach
Authors: Ye Xinyue , Jamonnak Suphanut , Van Zandt Shannon , Newman Galen , Suermann Patrick
Published: April 2024

Digital Twins (DTs) are increasingly recognized for their potential to improve efficiency and decision-making in various domains of the built environment. Despite their promise, challenges like cost, complexity, interoperability, and data integration remain. This paper introduces a novel interactive visual analytics system that tackles these issues, using a case study of simulating class distribution and campus building capacity at a large public university. The system leverages enrollment data, converting it into a spatial-temporal format for interactive exploration and analysis of class distribution and resource utilization. Through case studies, we demonstrate the system's effectiveness, adaptability, and real-world applicability, highlighting its role in practical DT implementation for built environments.
Effect of ultrasound-guided recruitment maneuver on atelectasis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Xu Yi , Han Yang , Zhuang Huijia , Fei Fei , Zheng Tingting , Yu Hai
Published: April 2024

To summarize the existing evidence on the effects of ultrasound-guided recruitment maneuver (RM) during perioperative period on atelectasis, oxygenation and other clinical outcomes in adult patients undergoing abdominal surgery. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and WanFang databases were searched from inception to May 2023 for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the perioperative use of ultrasound-guided RM with a control group in adult patients undergoing abdominal surgery. The primary outcome was the incidence of early postoperative atelectasis (within 24 h after surgery). A total of 12 RCTs with 895 patients were included. The ultrasound-guided RM significantly reduced the incidence of postoperative atelectasis (RR [risk ratio]: 0.44, 95% CI [confidence interval]: 0.34 to 0.57, P < 0.001), with a median fragility index of 4. Prespecified subgroup analyses demonstrated the consistent findings. Additionally, ultrasound-guided RM could decrease postoperative lung ultrasound score (MD [mean difference]: − 3.02, 95% CI: − 3.98 to − 2.06, P < 0.001), reduce the incidence of postoperative hypoxemia (RR: 0.32, 95% CI: 0.18 to 0.56, P < 0.001), improve postoperative oxygenation index (MD: 45.23 mmHg, 95% CI: 26.54 to 63.92 mmHg, P < 0.001), and shorten post-anesthesia care unit (MD: − 1.89 min, 95% CI: − 3.14 to − 0.63 min, P = 0.003) and hospital length of stay (MD: − 0.17 days, 95% CI: − 0.30 to − 0.03 days, P = 0.02). However, there was no significant difference in the incidence of atelectasis at the end of surgery between two groups (RR: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.86 to 1.14, P = 0.89). The use of ultrasound-guided RM perioperatively reduced the risk of atelectasis and improve oxygenation after abdominal surgery. Strategies to reduce the development of perioperative atelectasis are presented to highlight areas for future research.
Boosting the intra-African digital trade in the AfCFTA context: does regulatory framework matter?
Authors: Kouty Manfred
Published: April 2024

Digital trade is one of the promising areas for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and a factor of success of the African Union Digital Transformation Strategy (DTS) for Africa (2020–2030). However, the benefits of digital trade are not automatic and require an adequate regulatory environment. The objective of this study is to show how an adequate regulatory framework can boost the intra-African digital trade in the AfCFTA context. Our descriptive analysis shows that digital trade has increased across all regions in the world particularly in Africa since the beginning of the covid-19 pandemic. As a share of digitally deliverable services in total export services, digital trade represents 35% of total export services in Africa. Digital trade expansion faces regulatory barriers and the lack of a harmonized regulatory framework. Our econometrics results shows that digital trade and digital trade regulatory barriers (RDTII) are strongly negatively correlated in Africa. This result establishes the need to improve digital trade regulations framework in Africa.
A new approach to combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing: analysis of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies
Authors: Yu Minna , Liu Xinyu
Published: April 2024

Harmful subsidies awarded by states facilitate illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which causes negative impacts on ocean ecosystems, seafood value chains, society, and global food security. The World Trade Organization Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, adopted on June 17, 2022, aims to improve global fishery governance through trade measures and is regarded as a major step toward the achievement of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. The objective of this study is to offer a better insight into the interpretation and future implementation of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. Based on the status quo of international and regional fishery governance legal systems and management regimes in the regulation of IUU fishing, this study reviews the legislative process of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, analyzes five main controversial issues, and explores the conflicts of interests of different countries during the discussion. In the future, states should promote the transformation of the fisheries sector by reducing harmful subsidies for IUU fishing and enhancing cooperation among coastal states, flag states, port states and relevant RFMOs.
ITERATED PRIORITY ARGUMENTS IN DESCRIPTIVE SET THEORY
Authors: DAY ADAM , GREENBERG NOAM , HARRISON-TRAINOR MATTHEW , TURETSKY DAN
Published: April 2024

We present the true stages machinery and illustrate its applications to descriptive set theory. We use this machinery to provide new proofs of the Hausdorff–Kuratowski and Wadge theorems on the structure of
$\mathbf {\Delta }^0_\xi $
, Louveau and Saint Raymond’s separation theorem, and Louveau’s separation theorem.
Significant Reduction of Unequal Population Exposure to Climate Extremes by Achieving the Carbon Neutrality
Authors: Oh Seok‐Geun , Choi Jung , Kang Min‐Jee , Son Seok‐Woo , Jeong Sujong , Min Seung‐Ki , Yeh Sang‐Wook , Kim Yeon‐Hee
Published: April 2024

Climate extremes, such as hot temperature and heavy precipitation events, have devastating effects on human societies. As the planet gets warmer, they have become more intense and more frequent. To avoid irreversible damages from climate extremes, many countries have committed to achieving net‐zero anthropogenic carbon emissions, or carbon neutrality, by the 2050s. Here, we quantify the impact of carbon neutrality on population exposure to climate extremes using multi‐model projections from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP)1‐1.9 and SSP3‐7.0 scenarios. It is found that the increasing population exposure to hot‐temperature and heavy‐precipitation extremes under SSP3‐7.0 scenario can be substantially reduced by 87%–98% in the late 21st century by achieving the carbon neutrality based on SSP1‐1.9 scenario. The benefits of carbon neutrality are particularly pronounced in Africa and Asia. The potential benefits of carbon neutrality are also significant in North America, Europe, and Oceania, where a reduction in climate extremes is more than twice as important as population decline in reducing population exposure to climate extremes. These results provide important scientific support for ongoing efforts to achieve net‐zero carbon emissions by the 2050s to reduce potential climate risk and its inequity across continents.
The X‐Pattern Merging of the Equatorial Ionization Anomaly Crests During Geomagnetic Quiet Time
Authors: Laskar F. I. , Karan D. K. , Daniell R. E. , Codrescu M. V. , Eastes R. W. , Pedatella N. M. , Wang W. , Maute A. , Aryal S. , Rajesh P. K. , McClintock W. E.
Published: April 2024

A unique phenomenon—A geomagnetically quiet time merging of Equatorial Ionization Anomaly (EIA) crests, leading to an X‐pattern (EIA‐X) around the magnetic equator—has been observed in the night‐time ionospheric measurements by the Global‐scale Observations of the Limb and Disk mission. The pattern is also reproduced in an ionospheric model that assimilates slant Total Electron Content from Global Navigation Satellite System and Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate 2. A free‐running whole atmospheric general circulation model simulation reproduces a similar pattern. Due to the similarity between measurements and simulations, the latter is used to diagnose this heretofore unexplained phenomenon. The simulation shows that the EIA‐X can occur during geomagnetically quiet conditions and in the afternoon to evening sector at a longitude where the vertical drift is downward. The downward vertical drift is a necessary but not sufficient condition. The simulation was performed under constant low‐solar and quiescent‐geomagnetic forcing conditions, therefore we conclude that EIA‐X can be driven by lower‐atmospheric forcing.
Effects of Forbush Decreases on the Global Electric Circuit
Authors: Tacza J. , Li G. , Raulin J.‐P.
Published: April 2024

The suppression of high‐energy cosmic rays, known as Forbush decreases (FDs), represents a promising factor in influencing the global electric circuit (GEC) system. Researchers have delved into these effects by examining variations, often disruptive, of the potential gradient (PG) in ground‐based measurements taken in fair weather regions. In this paper, we aim to investigate deviations observed in the diurnal curve of the PG, as compared to the mean values derived from fair weather conditions, during both mild and strong Forbush decreases. Unlike the traditional classification of FDs, which are based on ground level neutron monitor data, we classify FDs using measurements of the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS‐02) on the International Space Station. To conduct our analysis, we employ the superposed epoch method, focusing on PGs collected between January 2010 and December 2019 at a specific station situated at a low latitude and high altitude: the Complejo Astronómico El Leoncito (CASLEO) in Argentina (31.78°S, 2,550 m above sea level). Our findings reveal that for events associated with FDs having flux amplitude (A) decrease ≤10%, no significant change in the PG is observed. However, for FDs with A > 10%, a clear increase in the PG is seen. For these A > 10% events, we also find a good correlation between the variation of Dst and Kp indices and the variation of PG.