bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Does Children’s Anthropomorphism of a Social Robot Develop Over Time? A Six-Wave Panel Study
Authors: Kühne Rinaldo , Peter Jochen , de Jong Chiara , Barco Alex
Published: June 2024

Research on children’s anthropomorphism of social robots is mostly cross-sectional and based on a single measurement. However, because social robots are new type of technology with which children have little experience, children’s initial responses to social robots may be biased by a novelty effect. Accordingly, a single measurement of anthropomorphism may not accurately reflect how children anthropomorphize social robots over time. Thus, we used data from a six-wave panel study to investigate longitudinal changes in 8- to 9-year-old children’s anthropomorphism of a social robot. Latent class growth analyses revealed that anthropomorphism peaked after the first interaction with the social robot, remained stable for a brief period of time, and then decreased. Moreover, two distinct longitudinal trajectories of anthropomorphism could be identified: one with moderate to high anthropomorphism and one with low to moderate anthropomorphism. Previous media exposure to non-fictional robots increased the probability that children experienced higher levels of anthropomorphism.
Designing Behavior Change Support Systems Targeting Blood Donation Behavior
Authors: Müller Helena M. , Reuter-Oppermann Melanie
Published: June 2024

While blood is crucial for many surgeries and patient treatments worldwide, it cannot be produced artificially. Fulfilling the demand for blood products on average days is already a major challenge in countries like South Africa and Ghana. In these countries, less than 1 % of the population donates blood and most of the donations come from first-time donors who do not return. Sufficient new, first-time and even lapsed donors must be motivated to donate regularly. This study argues that blood donation behavior change support systems (BDBCSS) can be beneficially applied to support blood donor management in African countries. In this study, the design science research (DSR) approach is applied in order to derive generic design principles for BDBCSS and instantiate the design knowledge in prototypes for a blood donation app and a chatbot. The design principles were evaluated in a field study in South Africa. The results demonstrate the positive effects of BDBCSS on users’ intentional and developmental blood donation behavior. This study contributes to research and practice by proposing a new conceptualization of blood donation information systems support and a nascent design theory for BDBCSS that builds on behavioral theories as well as related work on blood donation information systems. Thus, the study provides valuable implications for designing preventive health BCSS by stating three design principles for a concrete application context in healthcare.
Ambient Radiological Condition around an Operating Uranium Mill Tailings Disposal Facility at Turamdih, India
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Jha V. N. , Jha S. K. , Sahoo S. K. , Verma G. P. , Kulkarni M. S.
Published: June 2024

Large quantity of the feed forms part of the solid waste (tailings) slurry in the low grade uranium ore processing plant at Turamdih in Singhbhum region of Jharkhand, India. Coarser size fraction of this waste is used for backfilling of the underground uranium mines and fine fraction is discharged into an engineered impoundment system or tailings pond. Since inception of the discharges, field expeditions have been performed as part of the comprehensive radiological monitoring program for the facility. The monitoring program broadly consists of ambient gamma dose rate, atmospheric 222Rn and long lived alpha activity measurement around the facility and the estimation of radionuclide in diverse environmental matrices collected from the adjoining sites. Findings reflect that the radiological conditions are comparable to the pre-existing background level adjoining the tailings pond impoundment. Further, measurements for more than a decade confirm that the atmospheric radon concentration profile just a few meters beyond the embankment is indistinguishable from the background.
Exploring the Nexus of Distance Learning Satisfaction: Perspectives from Accounting Students in Serbian Public Universities During the Pandemic
Authors: Fedajev Aleksandra , Jovanović Dejan , Janković-Perić Marina , Radulescu Magdalena
Published: June 2024

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, teachers globally transitioned to distance learning, presenting significant challenges, particularly in developing countries. In that sense, the study investigates the usefulness and satisfaction (US) of distance learning (DL) among accounting students in Serbian public universities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research focuses on three key factors affecting perceived US derived from existing literature, including teaching process quality (TPQ), technical qualities of distance learning platforms (TQ), and compatibility with social and pandemic conditions (CSPC). The developed theoretical model is predominantly based on the user satisfaction model. Data from 373 surveyed students, gathered through a validated questionnaire, underwent analysis using the partial least squares structural equation model (PLS-SEM). Results reveal that CSPC and TPQ significantly impact the US, whereas TQ has a minor and statistically insignificant effect. The R2 value indicates these three constructs explain a significant portion of the variance for the US, with moderate effects of CSPC and TPQ and a small effect of TQ, indicated by f2 values. Moreover, the model is found to be significantly predictive, according to the Q2 value. Besides theoretical implications, the study suggests important practical implications for university management, emphasizing regular student surveys, continuous improvement of DL systems, and effective and continuous teacher training as the vital measures for enhancing teaching quality. Improving TPQ and TQ also impacts the Serbian economy by fostering workforce development, enhancing digital transformation, stimulating telecommunication industry growth, driving digital information sector development, attracting investment and innovation, boosting global competitiveness, and promoting lifelong learning.
Public interest in drug-related problems reflected in information search trends: an infodemiological study
Authors: Martínez-Aguilar Laura , Sanz-Lorente María , Martínez-Martínez Fernando , Faus María J. , Sanz-Valero Javier
Published: June 2024

Background

The analysis of how people search and “navigate” the internet to obtain health-related information and how they communicate and share this information can provide valuable knowledge about the disease patterns behaviour and health habits of populations.

Objective

To determine the population’s interest in drug-related problems through information search trends.

Method

A descriptive ecological correlational study, based on obtaining Google Trends data. Variables studied: relative search volume (RSV), evolution over time, milestones and seasonality.

Results

The most searched topic was drug overdose, with mean RSV of 56.25 ± 0.65. The highest increase occurred in the contraindication topic (R2 = 0.87, p < 0.001). The main milestone was observed in the drug overdose topic in July 2018 (RSV = 100). A very close relationship was found between adverse drug reaction and contraindication (R = 0.89, p < 0.001). Slight seasonality was noted in the adverse drug reaction (augmented Dickey–Fuller test [ADF] = −1.96), contraindication (ADF = −2.66) and drug interaction (ADF = −1.67) topics, but did not show an epidemiological trend.

Conclusions

The greatest public interest was found in the drug overdose and contraindication topics, which showed a stronger upward trend, although the seasonality study did not show any very notable data or demonstrate epidemiological information search behaviour. The main milestone observed was due to media factors related to the consumption of narcotics. There was a clear difference in English-speaking countries in the use of the drug overdose topic. A correlation between the adverse drug reaction and contraindication topics was confirmed.

Graphical Abstract
Empowering Mexican Women in Behavior Analysis
Authors: Arroyo Rosalinda , Camacho Isaac
Published: June 2024

Considering empowerment as a circumstance under which power is extended, this article describes the elements of a metacontingency that allow such a function transfer to occur. Particular interest is placed on the empowerment of Mexican women in higher education and its unsatisfactory state. Mentoring is proposed as a tool for the empowerment of women in behavior analysis. In particular, the article presents an outline of a 2-year mentoring program that will promote interlocked behavioral contingencies and their products, which can be selected by the proper academic environment. This program also promotes the development of the mentee's agency and a set of data related to the products being created. Finally, this article highlights the possibility that such a mentorship program can empower female behavior analysts in Mexico and begin to change the cultural practices that uphold inequality for women.
Comprehensive comparisons of gradient-based multi-label adversarial attacks
Authors: Chen Zhijian , Luo Wenjian , Naseem Muhammad Luqman , Kong Linghao , Yang Xiangkai
Published: June 2024

Adversarial examples which mislead deep neural networks by adding well-crafted perturbations have become a major threat to classification models. Gradient-based white-box attack algorithms have been widely used to generate adversarial examples. However, most of them are designed for multi-class models, and only a few gradient-based adversarial attack algorithms specifically designed for multi-label classification models. Due to the correlation between multiple labels, the performance of these gradient-based algorithms in generating adversarial examples for multi-label classification is worthy of analyzing and evaluating comprehensively. In this paper, we first transplant five typical gradient-based adversarial attack algorithms in the multi-class environment to the multi-label environment. Secondly, we comprehensively compared the performance of these five attack algorithms and the other four existing multi-label adversarial attack algorithms by experiments on six different attack types, and evaluated the transferability of adversarial examples generated by all algorithms under two attack types. Experimental results show that, among different attack types, the majority of multi-step attack algorithms have higher attack success rates compared to one-step attack algorithms. Additionally, these gradient-based algorithms face greater difficulty in augmenting labels than in hiding them. For transfer experimental results, the adversarial examples generated by all attack algorithms exhibit weaker transferability when attacking other different models.
Polymer Fiber Rigid Network with High Glass Transition Temperature Reinforces Stability of Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Zhou Qiao , Yan Cenqi , Li Hongxiang , Zhu Zhendong , Gao Yujie , Xiong Jie , Tang Hua , Zhu Can , Yu Hailin , Lopez Sandra P. Gonzalez , Wang Jiayu , Qin Meng , Li Jianshu , Luo Longbo , Liu Xiangyang , Qin Jiaqiang , Lu Shirong , Meng Lei , Laquai Frédéric , Li Yongfang , Cheng Pei
Published: June 2024

Organic photovoltaics (OPVs) need to overcome limitations such as insufficient thermal stability to be commercialized. The reported approaches to improve stability either rely on the development of new materials or on tailoring the donor/acceptor morphology, however, exhibiting limited applicability. Therefore, it is timely to develop an easy method to enhance thermal stability without having to develop new donor/acceptor materials or donor–acceptor compatibilizers, or by introducing another third component. Herein, a unique approach is presented, based on constructing a polymer fiber rigid network with a high glass transition temperature (Tg) to impede the movement of acceptor and donor molecules, to immobilize the active layer morphology, and thereby to improve thermal stability. A high-Tg one-dimensional aramid nanofiber (ANF) is utilized for network construction. Inverted OPVs with ANF network yield superior thermal stability compared to the ANF-free counterpart. The ANF network-incorporated active layer demonstrates significantly more stable morphology than the ANF-free counterpart, thereby leaving fundamental processes such as charge separation, transport, and collection, determining the device efficiency, largely unaltered. This strategy is also successfully applied to other photovoltaic systems. The strategy of incorporating a polymer fiber rigid network with high Tg offers a distinct perspective addressing the challenge of thermal instability with simplicity and universality.
Factor Structure and Psychometric Properties of the L2 Savoring Beliefs Inventory
Authors: Elahi Shirvan Majid , Taherian Tahereh , Kruk Mariusz , Pawlak Mirosław
Published: June 2024

The rise of positive psychology (PP) in applied linguistics has led to a focus on the role of positive emotional functioning in second language (L2) learning and teaching. This field has identified key constructs from PP to understand how to replace negative emotions with positive ones in L2 learning. Despite these advancements, there is a need for a specific framework and scale to foster and measure positive emotions in this context. The concept of savoring, which involves recognizing and embracing positive emotions, addresses this need. The paper investigates the factorial structure and psychometric properties of the Language-Specific Savoring Beliefs Inventory (L2SBI) through exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM). The results revealed that the bifactor ESEM solution is the most suitable model for assessing L2SBI. In other words, the L2SBI can be better represented by a comprehensive general component of L2 savoring beliefs, distinct from the three specific factors of anticipating progress in learning English, savoring the moment while learning English, and reminiscing about experiences in learning English. The study confirms the consistency of the L2SBI across genders and language levels, offering insights into varying belief patterns among learners and explaining differences in positive learning outcomes.
Contextualizing urban road network hierarchy and its role for sustainable transport futures: A systematic literature review using bibliometric analysis and content analysis tools
Authors: Tsigdinos Stefanos , Nikitas Alexandros , Bakogiannis Efthimios
Published: June 2024

Urban road networks play a crucial role in transport and urban planning and have the potential to contribute to more sustainable futures if their hierarchy is properly understood. However, the concept of the urban road network hierarchy, which refers to street classification and prioritization, is not well defined within the domain of transport engineering management, leaving many questions unanswered. Is it simply a planning tool, or does it extend to defining the essence of cities? Is it a qualitative or quantitative concept? Does it emerge organically or require proactive planning? Given the lack of comprehensive answers to these questions, this research aims to provide a contextual understanding of the urban road network hierarchy through the lens of sustainable transport futures. To this purpose, we conducted a systematic literature review, which is an effective method for consolidating knowledge on a specific topic. A total of 42 articles were analyzed using both quantitative bibliometric analysis and qualitative content analysis. Our work demonstrates that the road network hierarchy consists of 16 sub-concepts. Four main research trends were identified and discussed: a) road morphology and structure, b) advanced algorithms for street classification, c) integrated street classification planning, and d) the social dimension of street classification. Recent literature indicates a shift toward alternative road network hierarchy approaches that prioritize sustainable mobility over car-centric models. In conclusion, our analysis reveals that the urban road network hierarchy is a multifaceted yet under researched “vehicle for change,” which, if utilized effectively, offers opportunities to reimagine urban road environments.
Energy intensity convergence among Chinese provinces: a Theil index decomposition analysis
Authors: Wang Yifan , Li Wei , Doytch Nadia
Published: June 2024

China, the world’s largest carbon emitter, has one of the most stringent provincial emissions reduction programs, incorporated into its Five-Year National Plan to reduce carbon emissions. However, the widening energy intensity gap between provinces poses a great challenge for carbon reduction. In this study, we analyze the convergence of Energy intensity (EIC), i.e., the time-dependent decrease of differences among regional energy intensity over time focusing on a data set of 30 Chinese provinces from 2000 to 2015. Our goal is to identify the provinces that are responsible for the observed divergence in energy intensity and identify the factors causing that divergence in each individual case. The Theil index is used to capture inter-provincial energy inequality. We use the LMDI decomposition analysis to identify the drivers of energy inequality (energy consumption structure, energy efficiency, and industrial structure). The results suggest that reducing energy intensity in Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, and Hebei is the key to solving China's increasing energy intensity “gap” dilemma. The factors causing the energy intensity divergence in Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang are related to lagging economic growth and low energy efficiency, which impedes carbon emission reductions significantly. The factors causing the divergence of energy intensity in Hebei are rooted in its heavy industrial structure. Our findings are directly applicable to crafting regional energy policy with more targeted and practical emission reduction programs.
Synthesis of 1H-isoindolin-1-ones via a simple photodecarboxylative addition of carboxylates to phthalimides and evaluation of their antibiotic activity
Authors: Kemp Aiden , Durand Marine , Wall Daniel , Szieber Peter , Hermanns M. Iris , Oelgemöller Michael
Published: June 2024

A variety of 3-hydroxy-isoindolin-1-one derivatives were synthesized using the photodecarboxylative addition of carboxylates to phthalimide derivatives in aqueous media. Subsequent acid-catalyzed dehydration furnished 3-(alkyl and aryl)methyleneisoindolin-1-ones with variable E-diastereoselectivity in good to excellent overall yields. Noteworthy, the parent 3-phenylmethyleneisoindolin-1-one underwent isomerization and oxidative decomposition when exposed to light and air. Selected 3-hydroxy-isoindolin-1-one and 3-(alkyl and aryl)methyleneisoindolin-1-one derivatives showed moderate antibacterial activity that justifies future elaboration and study of these important bioactive scaffolds.

Graphical abstract
Dickens and the Gothic
Authors: Smith Andrew
Published: June 2024

Dickens and the Gothic provides a critical focus on representations of social and psychological entrapment which demonstrates how Dickens employs the Gothic to evaluate how institutions and formations of history impinge on the individual. An analysis of these forms of Gothic entrapment reveals how these institutions and representations of public and personal history function Gothically in Dickens, because they hold back other, putatively reformist, ambitions. To be trapped in an institution such as a prison, or by the machinations of a law court, or haunted by history, or to be haunted by ghosts, represent forms of Gothic entrapment which this study examines both psychologically and sociologically.
Effects of Cognitive and Physical Exercise on Soccer Penalty Kicking
Authors: Weigelt Matthias , Machlitt Daniel , Kamp John van der , Noël Ben , Memmert Daniel
Published: June 2024

Abstract: This exploratory study examined the effects of previous exercise on goal-side selection in soccer penalty kicking. Two types of 30-min exercise were tested and compared with a control group in an off-center paradigm. The cognitive-exercise group performed the d2 test of attention and the physical-exercise group rode on a fitness bicycle. In the off-center paradigm, participants viewed images of a goalkeeper in a soccer goal, who stood either in the middle of the goal or slightly displaced to the left or right. During the experiment, all participants selected the greater goal side for kicking when they perceived the goalkeeper’s position in the middle of the goal (i. e., off-center effect). However, only participants of the cognitive-exercise group demonstrated a strong bias for the right goal side, indicating visual–spatial pseudoneglect for the goalkeeper position. Therefore, only previous cognitive and not physical exercise appears to affect perception and decision-making in soccer penalty kicking.
Pliocene–Pleistocene Paleomagnetic Secular Variation and Time‐Averaged Field From the Northern Volcanic Zone of the Andes, Colombia
Authors: Sánchez‐Duque A. , Mejia V. , Torres M. P. , Pinilla A.
Published: June 2024

Paleomagnetic results obtained from 38 Pliocene—Pleistocene volcanic flows from the Knot of the Pastos and surroundings of Puracé volcano and Popayán (southwestern Colombia) are presented. Using stringent quality criteria and excluding sites that classify as representatives of transitional states of Earth's field, a selected group of 27 sites (16 with normal polarity and 11 with reversed polarity) was obtained with a mean direction (Dec = 357.8°, Inc = 6.4°, α95 = 7.5° and κ = 15) that coincides with the geocentric axial dipole field (GAD: Dec = 0o, Inc = 3.2o) and, unlike similar studies at similar latitudes, does not coincide with the GAD plus a 5% axial quadrupolar component (Dec = 0°, Inc = −1.08°). However, when serial correlation (SC) among several sites with high inclination anomalies is taken into consideration, the mean direction of two resulting groups of sites shows greater consistency with a field that includes a quadrupolar component. It is interpreted that the sites treated for SC record states of the field similar to today's field in the area of study, which is being affected by the South Atlantic Anomaly.
Northbound Transport of the Mediterranean Outflow and the Role of Time‐Dependent Chaotic Advection
Authors: Saporta‐Katz Ori , Mantel Nadav , Liran Rotem , Rom‐Kedar Vered , Gildor Hezi
Published: June 2024

The Mediterranean Sea releases approximately 1 Sv of water into the North Atlantic through the Gibraltar Straits, forming the saline Mediterranean Outflow Water (MOW). Its impact on large‐scale flow and specifically its northbound Lagrangian pathways are widely debated, yet a comprehensive overview of MOW pathways over recent decades is lacking. We calculate and analyze synthetic Lagrangian trajectories in 1980–2020 reanalysis velocity data. Sixteen percent of the MOW follow a direct northbound path to the sub‐polar gyre, reaching a 1,000 m depth crossing window at the southern tip of Rockall Ridge in about 10 years. Surprisingly, time‐dependent chaotic advection, not steady currents, drives over half of the northbound transport. Our results suggest a potential 15–20 years predictability in the direct northbound transport. Additionally, monthly variability appears more significant than inter‐annual variability in Lagrangian mixing and spreading the MOW.
Quasi 16‐Day Wave Signatures in the Interhemispheric Field Aligned Currents: A New Perspective Toward Atmosphere‐Ionosphere Coupling
Authors: Jadhav Ashish P. , Yamazaki Yosuke , Gurubaran S. , Stolle Claudia , Conte J. Federico , Batista Paulo P. , Buriti Ricardo A.
Published: June 2024

Quasi 16‐day waves (Q16DWs) are a prominent and recurrent phenomenon in the middle atmosphere, typically observed over winter mid and high latitudes. This study investigates the intense Q16DW event during the 2018–2019 Northern Hemisphere (NH) winter, and explores its propagation in the middle atmosphere and its notable influence on the E‐region ionosphere. Long‐term geopotential height estimates of Aura Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) reveal that the wave activity under consideration exhibited the largest amplitudes in the mesosphere for past 16 years. An analysis of wind data obtained from medium frequency (MF) and meteor radars, as well as from Modern‐Era Retrospective analysis for Research and Applications, Version 2 (MERRA‐2) reanalysis, reveals the presence of a westward‐propagating Q16DW with zonal wavenumber 1 exhibiting notable asymmetry about the equator, with the majority of the wave activity being confined to the NH. The prominently large amplitudes and vertical wavelengths of the wave suggest potential for the wave propagation to extend deep into the E‐region ionosphere. Swarm satellite observations reveal concurrent ∼16‐day oscillations in the eastward component of the geomagnetic field at low latitudes. These oscillations can be attributed to the periodic variations in interhemispheric field‐aligned currents (IHFACs). The ∼16‐day oscillations in the IHFACs are likely a consequence of asymmetric wind‐dynamo action, which is directly or indirectly associated with the Q16DW. These findings suggest that planetary waves originating in the middle atmosphere can cause interhemispheric coupling in the ionosphere.
Composition and Bioreactivity of Dissolved Organic Matter Leachates From End Members in a Mountain to Prairie Transitional River Valley
Authors: Zhou Xingzi , Logozzo Laura A. , Johnston Sarah Ellen , Zink Lauren , Amerila Armi‐Lee , Bogard Matthew J.
Published: June 2024

River organic matter transformations impact the cycling of energy, carbon, and nutrients. The delivery of distinct dissolved organic matter (DOM) sources can alter aquatic DOM cycling and associated biogeochemical processes. Yet DOM source and reactivity are not well‐defined for many river systems, including in western Canada. Here, we explore DOM cycling in the mainstem of the Oldman River (stream order 6–7), a heavily regulated river network in southern Alberta (Canada). We compared seasonal river DOM content, composition, and bioavailability with nine endmember leachates from the river valley using optical properties and incubations to estimate biodegradable dissolved organic carbon (BDOC). River DOM composition was most similar to terrestrial soil leachates, followed by autochthonous DOM leachates. River DOM bioavailability was low (BDOC = 0%–16.6%, mean of 7.1%). Endmember leachate bioavailability increased from soils (BDOC = 23.9%–53.7%), to autochthonous sources (fish excretion, macrophytes, biofilm; BDOC = 49.9%–80.0%), to terrestrial vegetation (leaves, shrubs, grass; BDOC >  80%), scaling positively with protein‐like DOM content and amount of leachable dissolved organic carbon (DOC), and negatively with aromaticity. Seasonally, DOC concentrations changed little despite >15‐fold increases in discharge during spring. River DOM composition shifted modestly toward soil‐like endmembers in spring and more bioavailable autochthonous end members in autumn and winter. Low DOM bioavailability in the river mainstem and low DOC yields shown in previous work point to limited internal processing of DOM and limited bioavailable DOM delivery to downstream habitats, possibly due to upstream flow regulation. Our observations provide important insights into the functioning of western Canadian aquatic networks.
Mapping Lava Flows on Venus Using SAR and InSAR: Hawaiʻi Case Study
Authors: Brandin M. C. , Sandwell D. T. , Johnson C. L. , Russell M. B.
Published: June 2024

We explore the potential for repeat‐pass SAR Interferometry (InSAR) correlation to track volcanic activity on Venus' surface motivated by future SAR missions to Earth's sister planet. We use Hawai'i as a natural laboratory to test whether InSAR can detect lava flows assuming orbital and instrument parameters similar to that of a Venus mission. Hawai'i was chosen because lava flows are frequent, and well documented by the United States Geological Survey, and because Hawai'i is a SAR supersite, where space agencies have offered open radar data sets for analysis. These data sets have different wavelengths (L, C, and X bands), bandwidths, polarizations, look angles, and a variety of orbital baselines, giving opportunity to assess the suitability of parameters for detecting lava flows. We analyze data from ALOS‐2 (L‐band), Sentinel‐1 (C‐band), and COSMO‐SkyMed (X‐band) spanning 2018 and 2022. We perform SAR amplitude and InSAR correlation analysis over temporal baselines and perpendicular baselines similar to those of a Venus mission. Fresh lava flows create a sharp, noticeable decrease in InSAR correlation that persists indefinitely for images spanning the event. The same lava flows are not always visible in the corresponding amplitude images. Moreover, noticeable decorrelation persists in image pairs acquired months after the events due to post‐emplacement contraction of flows. Post‐emplacement effects are hypothesized to last longer on the Venusian surface, increasing the likelihood of detecting Venus lava flows using InSAR. We argue for further focus on repeat‐pass InSAR capabilities in upcoming Venus missions, to detect and quantify volcanic activity on Earth's hotter twin.
Evidence for Reduced Black Sea Water Outflow to the North Aegean
Authors: Mamoutos I. G. , Potiris E. , Androulidakis Y. , Tragou E. , Zervakis V.
Published: June 2024

The Black Sea Waters (BSW) exported into the Aegean Sea largely control its overturning circulation as well as the regional biogeochemical characteristics. Observational evidence from ARGO floats and satellite‐derived sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll indicate a recent drastic reduction of Black Sea Water presence in the surface layer of the North Aegean Sea. This evidence is also supported by the long‐term negative sea level difference trend between the southwestern Black Sea and the northeastern Aegean Sea. The role of the Black Sea in hindering deep water formation processes in the North Aegean seems to be diminishing. The future evolution of the Aegean overturning cell will depend on whether this trend will continue, in addition to the variability of local atmospheric forcing.
Simultaneous Classification and Location of Volcanic Deformation in SAR Interferograms Using a Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Gaddes M. , Hooper A. , Albino F.
Published: June 2024

With the evolution of interferometric synthetic aperture radar into a tool for active hazard monitoring, new methods are sought to quickly and automatically interpret the large number of interferograms that are created. We present a convolutional neural network (CNN) that is able to both classify the type of deformation, and to locate the deformation within an interferogram in a single step. We achieve this through building a “two headed model,” which returns both outputs after one forward pass of an interferogram through the network. We train our model by first creating a data set of synthetic interferograms, but find that our model's performance is improved through the inclusion of real Sentinel‐1 data. We also investigate how model performance can be improved by best organizing interferograms such that they can exploit the three channel nature of computer vision models trained on very large databases of labeled color images, but find that using different data in each of the three input channels degrades performance when compared to the simple case of repeating wrapped or unwrapped phase across each channel. We also release our labeled Sentinel‐1 interferograms as a database named VolcNet, which consists of ∼500,000 labeled interferograms. VolcNet comprises of time series of unwrapped phase and labels of the magnitude, location, and duration of deformation, which allows for the automatic creation of interferograms between any two acquisitions, and greatly increases the amount of data available compared to other labeling strategies.
THz Radar Observations of Hydrometeors in a Spray Chamber
Authors: Zhu Zeen , Yang Fan , Luke Edward , Rosky Elise , Lamer Katia , Kollias Pavlos
Published: June 2024

A THz radar, with its wide bandwidth, is capable of high‐resolution imaging down to the centimeter scale. In this study, a THz radar is applied to detect hydrometeors generated in a spray chamber. The observed backscattering signals show fluctuations at centimeter scales, indicating various hydrometeor distribution patterns along the radar beam. A co‐located High‐Speed Imaging (HSI) sensor is used to measure the Drop Size Distributions (DSD) in the spray chamber. The radar sampling beam is well aligned with the HSI probes, allowing an objective comparison between the remote sensing and in situ observations. In this study, the observed radar power is compared with the power estimated from the HSI measurements. Results show great consistency, with power difference smaller than 0.5 dB. This study demonstrates the feasibility and great potential of using a THz radar for ultra‐high‐resolution observations of clouds in a laboratory facility, and in the real atmosphere.
Variability of Atomic Hydrogen Brightness in the Martian Exosphere: Insights From the Emirates Ultraviolet Spectrometer on Board Emirates Mars Mission
Authors: Susarla R. , Deighan J. , Chaffin M. S. , Jain S. , Lillis R. J. , Chirakkil K. , Brain D. , Thiemann E. , Eparvier F. , Lootah F. , Holsclaw G. , Gacesa M. , Fillingim M. O. , El‐Kork N. , England S. , Evans J. S. , AlMazmi H. , AlMatroushi H.
Published: June 2024

The Emirates Mars Ultraviolet Spectrometer (EMUS), aboard the Emirates Mars Mission (EMM), has been conducting observations of ultraviolet emissions within the Martian exosphere. Taking advantage of the distinctive orbit of the EMM around Mars, EMUS utilizes a dedicated strafe observation strategy to scan the illuminated Martian exosphere at tangential altitudes ranging from 130 to over 20,000 km. To distinguish between emissions of Martian origin and those from the interplanetary background, EMUS conducts specialized background observations by looking away from the planet. This approach has allowed us to investigate the radial and seasonal variations in Martian coronal emission features at H Lyman‐α, β and γ wavelengths. Our analysis supports the previous studies indicating that Martian exospheric hydrogen Lyman emission brightness attains its highest levels around the southern summer solstice and reaches its lowest levels when Mars is near aphelion. Additionally, a secondary peak emission at all altitudes is observed after perihelion during Martian Year (MY) 36, which can be attributed to a Class C dust storm. Our study establishes a strong correlation between solar flux and coronal brightness for these emissions, highlighting the impact of solar activity on the visibility of Martian corona. In addition, we have examined interannual variability and found that emission intensities in MY 37 surpassed those in MY 36, primarily due to increased solar activity. These observations help to understand potential seasonal patterns of exospheric hydrogen, which is driven by underlying mechanisms in the lower atmosphere and solar activity, eventually suggesting an impact on water loss in the Martian atmosphere.
Heat Transfer in Pyroclastic Density Current‐Ice Interactions: Insights From Experimental and Numerical Simulations
Authors: Vale Amelia B. , Jenkins Luke T. , Phillips Jeremy C. , Rust Alison C. , Hogg Andrew J. , Kilgour Geoff , Seward Anya
Published: June 2024

Stratovolcanoes are common globally, with high‐altitude summit regions that are often glacier‐clad and intersect the seasonal and perennial snow line. During an eruption, interaction between snow/ice and hot, pyroclastic deposits will potentially lead to extensive melt and steam production. This is particularly pertinent when pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) are emplaced onto and propagate over glacierised substrates. Generated melt and steam are incorporated into the flow, which can cause a transformation from a hot, dry granular flow, to a water‐saturated, sediment‐laden flow, termed a lahar. Both PDCs and ice‐melt lahars are highly hazardous due to their high energy during flow and long runout distances. Knowledge of the physics that underpin these interactions and the transformation to ice‐melt lahar is extremely limited, preventing accurate descriptions within hazard models. To physically constrain the thermal interactions we conduct static melting experiments, where a hot granular layer was emplaced onto an ice substrate. The rate of heat transfer through the particle layer, melt and steam generation were quantified. Experiments revealed systematic increases in melt and steam with increasing particle layer thicknesses and temperatures. We also present a one‐dimensional numerical model for heat transfer, calibrated against experimental data, capable of accurately predicting temperature and associated melting. Furthermore, similarity solutions are presented for early‐time melting which are used to benchmark our numerical scheme, and to provide rapid estimates for meltwater flux hydrographs. These data are vital for predicting melt volume and incorporation into PDCs required to facilitate the transformation to and evolution of ice‐melt lahars.
Radiative Forcing From Halogen Reservoir and Halocarbon Breakdown Products
Authors: Thornhill Gillian D. , Smith Lucy A. , Shine Keith P.
Published: June 2024

The direct radiative forcing (RF) from halocarbons is reasonably well characterized. However, the forcing due to polyatomic halogen reservoir and halocarbon breakdown products has not previously been quantified and it is important to estimate this contribution. Four gases, ClONO2, COCl2, COF2 and COClF, are considered; their stratospheric abundances mostly originate from the breakdown of chlorofluorocarbons, hydrochlorofluorocarbons and CCl4. They have significant mid‐infrared absorption bands and peak stratospheric mole fractions ranging from around 20 ppt to over 1 ppb, which are large compared to typical abundances of many emitted halocarbons. Using satellite observations of stratospheric abundance, observed infrared spectra, and a narrow‐band radiation code, the stratosphere‐adjusted radiative forcings (SARF) is computed. The global‐annual mean SARF is estimated to be 7 ± 0.8 mW m−2 based on measured abundances in the period 2004–2019, with ClONO2 contributing about 50%. Whilst not a major contributor to anthropogenic RF, only six individual halocarbon gases cause a significantly greater forcing. This forcing is then approximately attributed to their source gases; for most, it modestly enhances (by 1%–3%) both their direct RF and their global warming potentials. The most significant enhancement (5%–15%) is to CCl4, the principal source of stratospheric COCl2 and contributor to ClONO2 abundances; disagreement in recent satellite‐based COCl2 retrievals is a significant source of uncertainty. These additional gases enhance the available best estimate of the total forcing due to halocarbon source gases (including e.g., ozone depletion) by about 3%; notably, this is the only identified indirect mechanism that increases, rather than decreases, total halocarbon forcing.
The Role of Ice and Latitude‐Dependent Mantling on Boulder Distributions Across the Martian Northern Lowlands
Authors: Cohen‐Zada A. L. , Hood D. R. , Ewing R. C. , Karunatillake S.
Published: June 2024

Boulders are ubiquitous on rocky planets and provide valuable information about planetary processes. The abundance, size, and distribution of boulders offer insights into the primary processes that form them and the secondary processes that modify their position and size. However, the roles of varying environmental processes, including cryospheric processes, are poorly known. In this study, we analyze over 20 million boulders in the northern lowlands of Mars (50–70°N) to evaluate their distribution and identify environmental factors that might influence their clustering. We used spatial statistics to quantify the degree of boulder clustering across the northern plains. We found two latitudinal trends: overall decreasing clustering with increasing latitude (50–70°N) and a sub‐trend of increased clustering at higher latitudes (65–70°N). Our findings suggest that boulder distribution patterns are linked to the latitude‐dependent mantle (LDM) and subsurface ice. Boulders exhibit higher spatial clustering at higher latitudes, where the ice is thick and continuously present, and the LDM is more pristine. Lower clustering occurs at lower latitudes or regions where the ice loss is likely during interglacial periods, and the LDM degrades, exposing more boulders of varying sizes. We also discovered an anomalous region where boulder clustering is nearly random, located on the edge of the Alba Mons Patera. This area displays distinct geophysical characteristics compared to the rest of the lowlands. Although these characteristics do not indicate a specific process for the variation of boulder distribution in this study, the data suggest a coupling between cryospheric processes and boulder evolution, warranting further research.
Tropical Peatland Water Table Estimations From Space
Authors: Koupaei‐Abyazani Nikaan , Burdun Iuliia , Desai Ankur R. , Hergoualc'h Kristell , Hirano Takashi , Melling Lulie , Swails Erin , Ing Tang Angela Che , Wong Guan Xhuan
Published: June 2024

Tropical peatlands store copious amounts of carbon (C) and play a critical role in the global C cycle. However, this C store is vulnerable to natural and anthropogenic disturbances, leading these ecosystems to become weaker C sinks or even net C sources. Variabilities in water table (WT) greatly influence the magnitude of greenhouse gas flux in these biomes. Despite its importance in C cycling, observations of the spatiotemporal dynamics of tropical peatland WT are limited in spatial extent and length. Here, we use in situ WT measurements from tropical peatlands in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Peru to evaluate the satellite‐based Optical Trapezoid Model (OPTRAM). The model uses the pixel distribution in the shortwave infrared transformed reflectance and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) space to calculate indices that are then compared against in situ WT data. 30‐m resolution Landsat 7 and Landsat 8 images were utilized for model parameterization. We found OPTRAM to best capture tropical peatland WT dynamics in minimally forested and non‐forested areas (low to intermediate NDVI) (0.7 < R < 1) using the “best pixel” approach (the pixel with the highest Pearson‐R correlation value). In areas with relatively higher NDVI, OPTRAM index did not correlate with WT (average R of −0.04 to 0.24), likely due to trees being less sensitive to WT fluctuations. OPTRAM shows potential for reliably estimating tropical peatland WT without the need for direct measurements, which is challenging due to site remoteness and harsh conditions.
The longitudinal assessment of prenatal cannabis use on neonatal outcomes
Authors: Habersham Leah L. , Hurd Yasmin L. , Nomura Yoko
Published: June 2024

Objective

To investigate the association between prenatal cannabis use and perinatal outcomes using longitudinal data from pregnant individuals.

Study design

This secondary-data analysis study utilized data collected from 894 pregnant individuals followed in the Stress in Pregnancy longitudinal study, conducted between 2009 and 2013. The status of cannabis use was ascertained through interviews and electronic medical record reviews to evaluate the effect of cannabis use on perinatal outcomes (NICU admission, preterm delivery, low birth weight, fetal death).

Results

Among participants analyzed, 13.1% used cannabis, who were generally younger (25.9 vs 27.9 years). There was a sevenfold increased risk of fetal death (OR 7.30) among cannabis users relative to non-users. Elevated risk persisted after adjustments of potential confounders (aOR 6.31). Adjusted models also suggested increased low birth weight risk (aOR 1.67).

Conclusion

This study highlights an association between prenatal cannabis use and elevated risks for fetal death and low birth weight.
Expression and functional implications of YME1L in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Cheng Fuwei , Huang Haiping , Yin Shiyao , Liu Ji-Sheng , Sun Peng
Published: June 2024

Mitochondria play a crucial role in the progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). YME1L, a member of the AAA ATPase family, is a key regulator of mitochondrial function and has been implicated in various cellular processes and diseases. This study investigates the expression and functional significance of YME1L in NPC. YME1L exhibits significant upregulation in NPC tissues from patients and across various primary human NPC cells, while its expression remains relatively low in adjacent normal tissues and primary nasal epithelial cells. Employing genetic silencing through the shRNA strategy or knockout (KO) via the CRISPR-sgRNA method, we demonstrated that YME1L depletion disrupted mitochondrial function, leading to mitochondrial depolarization, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, lipid peroxidation, and ATP reduction within primary NPC cells. Additionally, YME1L silencing or KO substantially impeded cell viability, proliferation, cell cycle progression, and migratory capabilities, concomitant with an augmentation of Caspase-apoptosis activation in primary NPC cells. Conversely, ectopic YME1L expression conferred pro-tumorigenic attributes, enhancing ATP production and bolstering NPC cell proliferation and migration. Moreover, our findings illuminate the pivotal role of YME1L in Akt-mTOR activation within NPC cells, with Akt-S6K phosphorylation exhibiting a significant decline upon YME1L depletion but enhancement upon YME1L overexpression. In YME1L-silenced primary NPC cells, the introduction of a constitutively-active Akt1 mutant (caAkt1, at S473D) restored Akt-S6K phosphorylation, effectively ameliorating the inhibitory effects imposed by YME1L shRNA. In vivo studies revealed that intratumoral administration of YME1L-shRNA-expressing adeno-associated virus (AAV) curtailed subcutaneous NPC xenograft growth in nude mice. Furthermore, YME1L downregulation, concurrent with mitochondrial dysfunction and ATP reduction, oxidative injury, Akt-mTOR inactivation, and apoptosis induction were evident within YME1L-silenced NPC xenograft tissues. Collectively, these findings shed light on the notable pro-tumorigenic role by overexpressed YME1L in NPC, with a plausible mechanism involving the promotion of Akt-mTOR activation.
Correlation of limited-early-response status with 12-month CST, BVA, and machine learning-quantified retinal fluid in diabetic macular oedema in routine clinical practice
Authors: Sastry Resya C. , Perkins Scott W. , Kalur Aneesha , Singh Rishi P.
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives

Anti-VEGF treatment response in DMO has been measured by changes in the central subfield thickness (CST) and best visual acuity (BVA) outcomes at 3 months after initial treatment, termed early or limited early response (ER/LER). This study correlates LER with 12-month BVA, CST, and retinal fluid volumes quantified by a machine learning algorithm on optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Subjects/Methods

The study included treatment naïve DMO patients ≥ 18 years with OCT scans at baseline (M0), M3, M6, and M12. The 220 patients were categorized as limited early responders (LER) if they had ≤ 10% CST reduction and/or < 5 ETDRS letter gain at M3. BVA, CST, and subretinal (SRF), intraretinal (IRF), and total retinal (TRF) fluid volumes quantified by a machine learning algorithm were compared between groups and across time.

Results

At M12, the anatomic LER (aLER), defined solely by CST, had significantly worse BVA and CST versus the anatomic ER (aER) group (p < 0.001). Retinal fluid M12 outcomes did not significantly vary between all LER and ER groups. No significant BVA, CST, TRF, and IRF variance across time for LER was found (p > 0.1).

Conclusions

BVA and CST M12 outcomes vary by aLER/aER status indicating that CST may be a strong predictor of treatment outcomes, while retinal fluid volumes were not predicted by LER status.