bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probing de Sitter space using CFT states
Authors: Doi Kazuki , Ogawa Naoki , Shinmyo Kotaro , Suzuki Yu-ki , Takayanagi Tadashi
Published: February 2025

Abstract

In this paper we construct CFT states describing a putative holographic dual to local excitations in the three-dimensional de Sitter space (dS), called the bulk local states. We find that the conjugation operation in dS3/CFT2 is notably different from that in AdS3/CFT2. This requires us to combine two bulk local states constructed out of different primary states in a CPT-invariant way. This analysis explains why Green’s functions in the dS Euclidean vacuum cannot simply be obtained from the Wick rotation of those in AdS. We also argue that this characteristic feature explains the emergence of a time coordinate from the dual Euclidean CFT. We show that the information metric for the quantum estimation of bulk coordinate values replicates the de Sitter space metric.
Approximation Results via Power Series Method for Sequences of Monotone and Sublinear Operators
Authors: Demirci Kamil , Dirik Fadime , Yıldız Sevda
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we use the power series methods to study Korovkin-type approximation theorems for sequences of operators that are monotone and sublinear. It is important to point out that any positive linear operator is monotone sublinear but the converse is not true. We also calculate the rate of convergence in terms of modulus of continuity. Finally, we provide some examples that satisfy our theorems and give quantitative estimates. We also define Bernstein-Chlodovsky-Kantorovich-Choquet (BCKC) polynomial operators similar to those given before and obtain approximation estimate.
Investigating the effect of process parameters on surface roughness of AISI M2 steel in EDM using deep learning neural networks
Authors: Abbas Jabbar k. , Aghdeab Shukry H. , Al-Habaibeh Amin
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a unique and novel empirical study of electrical discharge machining (EDM) supported by artificial intelligence and statistical analysis. Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is a general non-traditional machining process for machining geometrically complicated parts or hard materials that are very difficult to machine by traditional machining operations. EDM creates the material removal process by using electric spark erosion. This paper experimentally investigates the process parameters of EDM on high-speed steel AISI M2 as a workpiece material with copper and brass as the electrodes. The effect of various process parameters on machining performance is investigated in this study using AI and statistical analysis where current, pulse on time and pulse off time are used for the experimental work and their effect on surface roughness (Ra) are studied. The results of the present work show that the optimum Ra levels in copper and brass electrodes are 2.16 µm and 3.43 µm, respectively, at current of 10 A, pulse on time of 100 µs, and pulse off time of 25 µs. The high levels of Ra in copper and brass electrodes are found to be 6.37 µm and 7.93 µm, respectively, at current of 42 A, pulse on time of 200 µs, and pulse off time of 4 µs. Deep learning neural networks and statistical analysis are used to evaluate the results. It has been found that there is a significant correlation between the process current and average surface roughness, and the pulsation time was not found significant. The use of deep learning neural networks has shown that AI could predict the average Ra values with an average error of about 0.39% for copper and of 0.26% for brass indicating the benefits of using AI in predicting the performance of manufacturing processes and the potential use of AI in future process modelling and applications. The drive to increase productivity and enhance quality is attracting manufacturers into adopting Industry 4.0 and artificial intelligence in their facilities to increase flexibility, reduce waste, and enhance efficiency. EDM is considered to be one of the most complex operations in manufacturing due to its high variability. Therefore, this paper suggests the use of deep learning neural networks to model the process and to predict the surface roughness outcome with limited input data. Statistical analysis was also used to test the statistical significance of each process parameter on the outcome.
Ambiguity-resolved short-baseline positioning performance of LEO frequency-varying carrier phase signals: a feasibility study
Authors: Yang S. , Khodabandeh A. , Zaminpardaz S. , Teunissen P. J. G.
Published: February 2025

While integer ambiguity resolution (IAR) enables GNSS to achieve real-time sub-centimeter-level positioning in open-sky environments, it can be easily hindered if the involved receivers are situated in areas with limited satellite visibility, such as in dense city environments. In such GNSS-challenged cases, commercial Low Earth Orbit (LEO) communication satellites can potentially augment GNSS by providing additional measurements. However, LEO satellites often lack code measurements, mainly transmitting satellite-specific frequency-varying carrier phase signals. This contribution aims to study the ambiguity-resolved baseline positioning performance of such phase-only signals, addressing the extent to which LEO constellations can realize near real-time positioning in standalone and GNSS-combined modes. Through a simulation platform, we analyze the distinct response of each LEO constellation (Iridium, Globalstar, Starlink, OneWeb, and Orbcomm) to IAR under various circumstances. Although achieving single-receiver high-precision positioning can be challenged by inaccuracies in the LEO satellite orbit products, the relative distance between two receivers can help overcome this limitation. As a result, centimeter-level relative positioning over short baselines can be made possible, even with a satellite elevation cut-off angle of 50 degrees, making it suitable for GNSS-challenged environments. This can be achieved with high-grade receiver clocks over very short baselines (

$$\sim $$

∼

5 km) and access to decimeter-level orbit products.
Long-term implant survival after debridement, antibiotics and implant Retention (DAIR) for acute prosthetic joint infections: is it a viable option beyond four weeks after index arthroplasty?
Authors: Perdomo-Lizarraga Juan Carlos , Combalia Andrés , Fernández-Valencia Jenaro Ángel , Martínez-Pastor Juan Carlos , Morata Laura , Soriano Alex , Muñoz-Mahamud Ernesto
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Debridement, Antibiotic Treatment, and Implant Retention (DAIR) is considered the first-line treatment for early acute Prosthetic Joint Infection (PJI). This study aims to evaluate the five year success rates of early acute PJI managed with DAIR taking into consideration the time from the index surgery.

Materials and methods

A retrospective analysis of medical charts for 291 consecutive patients with acute PJI occurring within the first three months after primary or revision arthroplasty was conducted. Patients were stratified into two groups based on DAIR timing: Group (A) patients who underwent DAIR within the first four weeks post-arthroplasty; Group (B) patients who underwent DAIR between five and 12 weeks post- arthroplasty. Success rate was defined as implant in place, without signs of infection and not under suppressive antibiotic treatment.

Results

The overall five year success rate for the entire cohort at five years was 62.2%. The mortality rate during the study period was 8.2%. The five year success rate was 64.4% (141 of 219) for Group A and 55.6% (40 of 72) for Group B (p = 0.21). Including deceased patients without signs of infection and retained implants as successful cases, the five year success rates increased to 69.9% for Group A (153 out of 219) and 69.4% for Group B (50 out of 72). The implant survival rate at five years was 73% for Group A and 71% for Group B.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that there are no significant differences between patients who undergo a DAIR procedure within four weeks from those performed between week five and 12. Importantly, the overall success rate decreased from 75.6 to 62.2% in the last three years of follow-up.
Long-Term Results of Modified Catheterization Technique in the Treatment of CE Type 2 and 3b Liver Hydatid Cysts
Authors: Akhan Okan , Özbay Yakup , Ünal Emre , Karaagaoglu Ergun , Çiftçi Turkmen Turan , Akıncı Devrim
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To evaluate the long-term results of modified catheterization technique (Mo-CAT) for percutaneous treatment of liver CE2/CE3b hydatid disease in a large series.

Materials and Methods

A total of 119 patients (F/M:73/59) and 132 liver CE2 and CE3b cysts who underwent percutaneous treatment by Mo-CAT from 2009 to 2020 were included in the study. Patients’ age ranges from 8 to 78 years (mean: 39 years). Volume changes of all cysts after the procedure, success and complication rates, duration of hospital stay, catheterization time and recurrence rates were recorded. Technical success was defined as successful catheter introduction into the CE. Clinical success was defined as cases with no mortality and no recurrence.

Results

Among all patients, the mean reduction in the cyst volume was 65.84% (range 6.29–100%). The mean length of hospital stay was 3.88 ± 4.73 days (range 1–36 days). A total of 107 (89.9%) of 119 patients were discharged from the hospital in first the week after the procedure. Major complications were observed in 12 of 119 patients (10.08%) and 12 out of 132 cysts (9.09%). Recurrence was detected in 6 (4.5%) cysts in 6 patients (4.5%) who needed additional procedures. Among all 119 patients, the mean follow-up duration was 51.66 ± 35.56 months (median, 49.00 months; range 0–131 months).

Conclusions

Treatment of liver CE2/3b with Mo-CAT appears to be a safe, reliable and efficient technique which is associated with low recurrence and complication rates.

Graphical Abstract
Retrieval-augmented generation improves precision and trust of a GPT-4 model for emergency radiology diagnosis and classification: a proof-of-concept study
Authors: Fink Anna , Nattenmüller Johanna , Rau Stephan , Rau Alexander , Tran Hien , Bamberg Fabian , Reisert Marco , Kotter Elmar , Diallo Thierno , Russe Maximilian F.
Published: February 2025

Objectives

This study evaluated the effect of enhancing a GPT-4 model with retrieval-augmented generation on its ability to diagnose and classify traumatic injuries based on radiology reports.

Materials and methods

In this prospective proof-of-concept study, we used retrieval-augmented generation as a zero-shot learning approach to provide expert knowledge from the RadioGraphics top ten reading list for trauma radiology to the GPT-4 model, creating the context-aware TraumaCB. Radiological report findings of 50 traumatic injuries were independently generated by two radiologists. The performance of the TraumaCB compared to the generic GPT-4 was evaluated by three board-certified radiologists, assessing the accuracy and trustworthiness of the chatbot responses in the 100 reports created.

Results

The TraumaCB achieved 100% correct diagnoses, 96% correct classification, and 87% correct grading, outperforming the generic GPT-4 with 93% correct diagnoses, 70% correct classification, and 48% correct grading. TraumaCB sources consistently achieved a median rating of 5.0 for explanation and trust. Challenges encountered mainly involved traumatic injuries lacking widely accepted classification systems.

Conclusion

Augmenting a commercial GPT-4 model with retrieval-augmented generation improves its diagnostic and classification capabilities, positioning it as a valuable tool for efficiently assessing traumatic injuries across various anatomical regions in trauma radiology.

Key Points

Question

Retrieval-augmented generation has the potential to enhance generic chatbots with task-specific knowledge of emergency radiology.

Findings

The TraumaCB excelled in accuracy, particularly in injury classification and grading, and provided explanations along with the sources used, increasing transparency and facilitating verification.

Clinical relevance

The TraumaCB provides accurate, fast, and transparent access to trauma radiology classifications, potentially increasing the efficiency of image interpretation in emergency departments and enabling customized reports based on local or individual preferences.
Faster larval growth and shorter pelagic duration enhance the post-settlement persistence of a common range-extending coral-reef fish in a temperate ecosystem
Authors: Rigg Alexander L. , Fowler Ashley M. , Nagelkerken Ivan , Booth David J.
Published: February 2025

Climate-induced ocean warming facilitates the poleward range expansion of tropical marine species into temperate waters. Such tropicalisation is reshaping marine ecosystems globally and has ecological implications. Our understanding of the factors influencing the establishment and persistence of vagrant tropical species in temperate waters remains limited. To address this knowledge gap, we examined which early life history traits affect the post-settlement persistence of a vagrant tropical fish, the sergeant major damselfish Abudefduf vaigiensis, in temperate waters off southeast Australia. Over an 8-week period, fish were collected, and otolith microstructure analysis indicated that early post-settlement persistence was linked to fast larval growth in the week prior to settlement and to shorter pelagic larval duration, but not body size at hatching or body size at settlement. We conclude that successful invasions of temperate ecosystems by this vagrant tropical fish is likely mediated by demographic advantages these fish gain as early-stage larvae.
Navigating the Mining Industry Challenges: An Introduction to the CERA 4in1 Standards
Authors: Nowaz Thania , Fernandez Paulina , Foerster Lukas , Tost Michael , Monfort Climent Daniel , Olmos Betin Samuel , Melcher Frank
Published: February 2025

The mining industry faces significant challenges, including sustainability, environmental impact, and compliance with evolving regulatory frameworks. These challenges are compounded by the global demand for responsible sourcing and traceability across complex supply chains. The CERA 4in1 standard emerges as an innovative certification framework, addressing these issues by integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria throughout the mining lifecycle, from exploration to final product delivery. This comprehensive system combines advanced technologies, such as material fingerprinting and blockchain-based traceability, to ensure transparency, compliance, and stakeholder trust. The modular design of the CERA 4in1 standard aligns with international regulations, providing a structured pathway for organizations to improve operations while meeting regulatory and market demands. This contribution outlines the structure and development of the CERA 4in1 system, emphasizing its potential to foster sustainability, operational transparency, and robust certification processes across the mining sector. The anticipated completion of this standard by 2025 represents a critical milestone in advancing responsible practices and enhancing global supply chain integrity.
Management of post-traumatic non-iatrogenic lumbar/flank hernias: diagnosis and treatment options—systematic review, meta-analysis and management algorithm
Authors: Elemosho Abdulaziz , Janis Jeffrey E.
Published: February 2025

Background

Post-traumatic non-iatrogenic lumbar/flank hernias (LFH) represent a unique and important subset of abdominal wall hernias that can develop following either blunt or penetrating trauma to the abdomen. There is paucity of evidence guiding the management and identification of associated complications of this hernia type in the literature. We aim to pool available cases in the literature and summarize the diagnostic and management approaches of traumatic LFH.

Methods

PUBMED, EMBASE and Scopus databases were queried, and relevant articles were selected following PRISMA guideline for systematic reviews. Studies in English and with complete data on post-traumatic non-iatrogenic LFH, including case reports, were included.

Results

A total of 211 cases of post-traumatic non-iatrogenic lumbar/flank hernias (LFH) from 62 articles published between 1993 and 2023 were included, with mean age of 52.1 years (interquartile range IQR: 25.8–62.7 years). Most patients had CT-confirmed diagnosis (96.1%), had inferiorly located LFHs (86.8%), and fell into Type B Moreno-Egea class (74.6%). Flank pain was the commonest presenting complaint (13.4%) with flank hematoma present at presentation in 8.6% of the cohort. Post-traumatic non-iatrogenic LFHs were diagnosed at index hospitalization/presentation in 75.5% and repaired during the same admission in 48.2% of patients. Open repair with mesh was the most common method of repair (59.8%), followed by open repair without mesh in 28.7% and by minimally invasive laparoscopic approach in 11.5% cases. Overall recurrence rate (for all repair types) was 8% at mean follow up of 15.4 months (IQR: 12.5–25.0 months). Hernia defect size of ≥ 8 cm was 100% sensitive and 52.9% specific for the prediction of mesenteric injuries. Flank hematoma/seatbelt sign was 100% sensitive and 81.8% specific for the prediction of mesenteric injuries in traumatic LFHs.

Conclusions

Patients presenting with flank pain and flank hematoma following a blunt abdominal wall trauma should receive a thorough radiologic evaluation, particularly a CT scan, for post-traumatic non-iatrogenic LFHs. Complications such as mesenteric avulsion must be considered with high suspicion in patients whose hernia is associated with flank hematoma or with hernia diameter ≥ 8 cm. Long term follow-up after repair still requires further study. Open repair with extraperitoneal mesh reinforcement is the standard of care for hernias ≥ 8 cm repaired acutely or electively, and minimally invasive laparoscopic approach is typically utilized for hernias < 8 cm.
Spatial prediction of InSAR-derived hillslope velocities via deep learning
Authors: He Jun , Tanyas Hakan , Dahal Ashok , Huang Da , Lombardo Luigi
Published: February 2025

Spatiotemporal patterns of earth surface deformation are influenced by a combination of static and dynamic environmental characteristics specific to any landscape of interest. Nowadays, these patterns can be captured for larger areas using Interferometric Synthetic-Aperture Radar (InSAR) technologies and yet, their spatial prediction has been poorly investigated so far. Here, we initially compute the InSAR-derived line-of-sight hillslope velocities (VLOS) and calculate their mean (ranging from 0 to ~ 30 mm/y) and maximum (ranging from 0 to ~ 60 mm/y) values per Slope Units (SUs). These separately constitute the response variables to be modelled through a series of deep learning routines: i) a basic neural network (Multi-Layer Perceptron), ii) a Graph Convolutional Network implemented to capture spatial dependence among neighbouring SUs, and iii) an Edge-Featured Graph Attention Network sensitive not only to the interdependence brought by the SU positions in space but also to reciprocal terrain characteristics. We assessed the model performance for both models via Mean Absolute Error (MAE), r-squared (R2), and Pearson Correlation Coefficient (PCC). The Edge-Featured Graph Attention Network model produced the best performance. The result for the first model targeting the mean VLOS are 4.75 mm/y, 0.63, and 0.79 for MAE, R2, and PCC, respectively. As for the second model, targeting the maximum VLOS, these are 19.52 mm/y, 0.55 and 0.75. We also showcased interpretable multivariate models, where the contribution of each predictor to the InSAR velocities is summarized and interpreted. This represent a clear example where InSAR-derived hillslope velocities are accurately estimated at regional scales, thus setting up the scene for further advances towards space-time regional deformation modelling.
Comparative cost analysis for bore hole and bark streak tapping methods in resin production from Pinus brutia
Authors: Caglayan İnci , Kabak Özgür , Ucal Sari Irem
Published: February 2025

This study assesses the economic and technical feasibility of two resin extraction methods, Bore Hole Tapping (BH) and Bark Streak Tapping (BS), applied to Pinus brutia in the Korudağ Forest, Türkiye. Resin production from 758 trees was analyzed over six months to compare setup costs, operational expenses, labor costs, and yields. Additionally, a feasibility study involving 2500 trees was conducted to evaluate market, technical, and financial aspects. Results show that both methods incur high production costs, making resin production economically unviable under current market conditions. The BH method is particularly unfeasible due to significant initial investments and high operating costs. In contrast, the BS method, with lower costs, approaches viability at historically higher resin prices. Sensitivity analyses suggest that the BS method could become feasible with a significant rise in market prices. However, resin production from Pinus brutia remains economically unfeasible at present.
Is cardiopulmonary transit time (CPTT) measured by using dynamic rubidium cardiac PET/CT a predictor for cardiac function?
Authors: Seige Lena C. , Zhang Boya , Heimer Jakob , Spielhofer Noel , Popescu Cristina , Murray Karsten , La Fougère Christian , Burger Irene A. , Sauter Alexander W.
Published: February 2025

Cardiopulmonary transit time (CPTT) represents the time needed for the circulation of blood from the right to the left ventricle. This parameter can be measured during dynamic acquisition of rubidium ([82Rb]) cardiac PET/CT. To further characterize this marker, we wanted to assess the association between CPTT and parameters of cardiac function derived from echocardiography. Retrospective single center analysis of patients referred to [82Rb]RbCl-PET/CT with rest/stress protocol on an integrated hybrid PET/CT system (Biograph mCT, Siemens Healthineers, Erlangen, Germany) and echocardiography within 100 days. After intravenous injection of 7.5 MBq/kg [82Rb]RbCl dynamic scans with initially 12 × 10 s frames were started. For data analysis a volume of interest (VOI) was drawn in the left and right ventricle using dedicated software. The difference between the peak time for the two time activity curves (TAC) was extracted as CPTT and normalized for heart rate (NCPTT). Associations between NCPTT and echo parameters such as left ventricular ejection fraction (EFEcho) were analyzed using linear regression models. 44 patients (sex: 28 male, 16 female) were enrolled with a time difference between PET and echocardiography of 19.65 ± 23.3 days. 9 patients had a rest CPTT of 0 s, 32 patients 10 s and 3 patients 20 s. The association between EFEcho and NCPTT revealed a significant negative correlation (beta = -0.77; CI: -1.32, -0.22; p = 0.007). Given this association, univariate predictive models for EFEcho were applied. Root mean square error was 6.83% for the EFPET, and 6.0% for NCPTT, which indicates a slightly higher predictive performance for the NCPTT model with a lower error. Pulmonary transit time can be estimated with [82Rb]RbCl-PET/CT, with a high positive association to rest EFEcho. However, smaller time frames than 10 s are needed, for more accurate estimation of cardiac function.

Graphical Abstract
The combination of composted animal manure and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria is a sustainable biofertilizer and bionematicide for grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) cultivars
Authors: Khder Osama M. M. , El-Ashry Ramadan M. , El-Deeb Ahmed M. A. , Bouqellah Nahla A. , Ashkan Mada F. , Dablool Anas S. , Thagfan Felwa A. , Algopishi Uthman B. , Alshammari Naheda M. , Al‑Gheffari Hawazen K. , Fikry Ahmed M. , El-Saadony Mohamed T. , Mathew Betty T. , AbuQamar Synan F. , El-Tarabily Khaled A.
Published: February 2025

Root-knot nematodes (RKN) cause extensive damage to grapevine cultivars. RKN-resistant grapevine rootstocks remain vulnerable to biotic and abiotic stresses. This study aimed to determine the influence of composted animal manures (CAMs) [chicken manure (CM), cow manure (CowM), and sheep manure (SM)] with or without plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) on the population of Meloidogyne incognita, free-living nematodes (FLNs) and predaceous nematodes (PNs) residing in the soils of vineyard cultivars (Flame, Superior and Prime). The nematodes were isolated from grapevine roots and rhizosphere soils, then the absolute frequency of occurrence (FO), relative FO, prominence value (PV), and population density (PD) were assessed. The impact of CAMs and PGPR on the growth parameters, fruit output, and quality of three grapevine varieties was subsequently evaluated. Eight treatments included a control without CAMs or PGPR amendments, the CAMs alone, or CAM treatments combined with PGPR. The results showed that FLNs and PNs were more abundant in Prime than Flame or Superior cultivars when poor sandy loam soils were supplied with CAMs. Among all tested manures, CM was the best treatment as a nematicide. This was evident from the decreased numbers of M. incognita and increased numbers of FLNs and PNs in grapevine fields. Compared to the soil-applied oxamyl (a systemic nematicide), which was efficiently suppressive on M. incognita for two months, CM significantly (P < 0.05) decreased PD of the phytonematodes for five months, improved soil structure and enhanced the soil biological activities. There were significant (P < 0.05) increases in the number of leaves/vines by 79.9, 78.8, and 73.1%; and total fruit weight/vine by 76.9, 75.0, and 73.0% in Flame, Superior, and Prime varieties, respectively, compared to untreated vines. Regardless of the cultivar, soils amended with CM + PGPR achieved the lowest number of M. incognita among all other treatments, followed by SM + PGPR and CowM + PGPR. It was concluded that CAMs amendment, mainly CM, along with PGPR in poor sandy soils of temperate areas, is considered a sustainable approach for reducing parasitic nematodes and improving agricultural management.
The behaviour of a flow from an elevated source into a less dense fluid
Authors: Shraida Shaymaa M. , Hocking Graeme C.
Published: February 2025

The viscous Boussinesq equations are used to simulate the unsteady flow from an elevated source of a plume of heavier fluid into a lighter fluid. The solution is obtained with a spectral method. The source is located at some height above the bottom of a vertically confined layer and the flow is two dimensional. Results indicate that the small, initially circular bubble of heavier fluid expands until the top reaches some height above the source, after which it levels off and starts to flow downwards in a vertical plume before spreading horizontally. We discuss the results for different values of Reynolds number, flow rate, and density differential. It is found that there are several different plume types, the behaviours of which depend on the flow rate. At low flows, the plume forms an inverted mushroom shape, some parts of which may separate as it falls downward. At moderate flow rates, the inverted mushroom plume remains connected until it reaches the base, after which it spreads horizontally as a gravity current. Finally, at large flow rates, the central blob expands outward until it hits the bottom, after which it spreads horizontally. When the Reynolds number is small and viscosity is relatively high, the interface between the expanding region and the ambient fluid is very stable and exhibits few deviations and very little mixing, but as the Reynolds number increases, spirals begin to form around the edges, thus, enhancing the mixing.
Molecular characterization and population structure analysis of luffa (Luffa aegyptiaca Mill.) germplasm using inter‑Primer Binding Site (iPBS) retrotransposon markers
Authors: Coşkun Ömer Faruk , Toprak Seher , Mavi Kazım
Published: February 2025

Sponge gourd (Luffa aegyptiaca), an economically significant member of the Cucurbitaceae family, is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions for its applications as a vegetable, medicinal plant, and fiber crop. This study aimed to genetically characterize 32 Luffa aegyptiaca genotypes using Inter-Primer Binding Site (iPBS) retrotransposon markers and evaluate their efficiency in detecting genetic diversity. A total of 25 iPBS primers were assessed, with an average polymorphism rate of 84.1% and a polymorphic information content (PIC) of 0.54, thereby indicating moderate-to-high genetic differentiation within the population. Primers such as iPBS-2231 and iPBS-2256 showed exceptional performance, achieving 100% polymorphism rates and high PIC values, while primers like iPBS-2253 exhibited limited effectiveness. The unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) dendrogram and Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA) revealed three main genetic clusters and unique outliers, with Genotype 17 identified as the most genetically distinct due to its lowest similarity rate (0.54). Additionally, genetic similarity was generally higher among genotypes from the same geographic region, although exceptions were noted. The findings emphasize the critical role of primer selection in genetic analyses and provide a foundational framework for breeding programs and conservation efforts. The study highlights the potential of genetically unique genotypes for enhancing diversity and advancing agricultural sustainability in Luffa cultivation.
Application of recycled high-density polyethylene for construction of non-structural wattle and daub walls
Authors: Ceolin Valdomiro Neto , Gomes Maria Idália , Oliveira Francisco , Louro Margarida
Published: February 2025

The evolution of construction techniques has spanned millennia, integrating locally sourced materials with innovative technological advancements. The use of earth in construction demonstrates remarkable versatility, exhibiting plasticity when wet and robust solidity upon drying. The environmental sustainability and abundant availability of earth further reinforce its role in architectural practices. This research explores the integration of recycled thermoplastic technology with traditional earthen construction methods, focusing on non-structural walls combining thermoplastic frameworks and mixed earth techniques. The study places particular emphasis on recycled High-Density Polyethylene (r-HDPE), a material that has garnered acclaim for its role in sustainable development through the reuse of secondary raw materials and its high moldability. The primary function of r-HDPE in this context is as a supplemental framework supporting earthen materials. Utilizing recycling and production methods from Precious Plastic, the research emphasizes the prototyping of r-HDPE structures with diverse configurations, digitally designed to create components ranging from beams to intricate truss networks. The earthen mortar comprises fine and coarse sand, wheat straw, and lime, adhering to traditional mixed earth construction practices. While the materials share structural limitations with conventional mixed earth methods, the potential addition of composites to thermoplastics could improve strength but hinder mechanical recyclability, favoring chemical recycling as an alternative. This study prioritizes recyclability with minimal environmental impact, limiting its scope to mechanical recycling without composite additives. The objective of this study is to achieve a balance between innovative applications of recycled thermoplastics and long-term environmental stewardship, thereby enhancing the synergy between sustainability and construction practices.
Thermal Response of a Lithium Vapor Divertor to Cyclical Operation
Authors: Parsons Matthew S. , Porcelli Margaret , Emdee Eric D. , Goldston Robert J.
Published: February 2025

The lithium vapor divertor concept is being developed as a method to achieve detached divertor conditions in a tokamak while minimizing impurity radiation losses from the core plasma. SOLPS-ITER modeling has previously been used to identify some of the geometric constraints and required lithium evaporation rate of a lithium vapor divertor in a medium-sized tokamak during steady-state operation. Here an updated conceptual design based on these operating requirements is introduced and the thermal response of the system is modeled during cyclical operation, consistent with operation in a short-pulse tokamak. Controllability of the temperature of the lithium capillary porous system (CPS) is achieved by adopting a design where there is no line-of-sight for radiation from the plasma to reach the heated CPS surface. Operational strategies to minimize the amount of lithium evaporated between plasma discharges while achieving steady evaporation rates during plasma discharges are discussed and modeled here. The optimal feedforward control strategy demonstrated in this work is to ramp up the temperature of the evaporator as quickly as possible immediately before a plasma discharge and then reduce the heating to match the desired steady-state net evaporation rate just before the plasma discharge begins, allowing the thermal inertia of the system to stabilize the evaporation rate during the first second of the plasma discharge.
A framework for full waveform velocity and moment tensor inversion in regional seismotectonic settings
Authors: Serrano Jheyston , Ramirez Ana B. , Abreo Sergio , Reyes Oscar , Florez Manuel
Published: February 2025

Building 3-D regional velocity models of complex seismotectonics settings remains challenging; strong heterogeneities, resulting from plate interactions, are difficult to resolve and the lack of well constrained moment tensor solutions for the set of earthquakes used as sources makes model convergence difficult or altogether impossible. We propose a joint velocity and moment tensor elastic full waveform inversion framework in the time domain, to find a solution for P-wave and the complete Moment Tensor (MT) of the seismic sources. We synthetically validate our approach using an upscaled version of the SEAM 3-D velocity model, a standard validation test in exploration seismology known for its strong heterogeneities and velocity contrasts. Our approach shows promising results when applied to the tectonic setting of the Middle Magdalena Valley (MMV) basin, a region known for the poorly understood geometry of the underlying subducting plates. As sources we use intermediate depth earthquakes from the Bucaramanga Seismic Nest (BSN), one of the most compact and active seismicity volumes in the world. As a result, we obtain a 3-D velocity model for the region and a set of well constrained MT solutions for moderate BSN earthquakes. Our framework can be readily applied to other regions and it will be of special importance in applications dominated by moderate seismicity (Mw<5.5), where very few global MT solutions are available.
M-C&M-BL: a novel classification model for brain tumor classification: multi-CNN and multi-BiLSTM
Authors: Başarslan Muhammet Sinan
Published: February 2025

As the central organ for human cognition and behavior, the human brain is critical to daily functioning. Brain tumors disrupt normal activities and require accurate diagnosis and intervention. In this study, an approach is presented that allows the detection of tumors in the brain. The main motivation of the study is to determine whether there is a tumor in the brain with high performance. For this purpose, the proposed method was tested using the open-source Br35H brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) dataset. The proposed model, M-C&M-BL, integrates a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) for image feature extraction with a Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (BiLSTM) Network for sequential data processing. Metrics such as Accuracy (Acc), F1 Score (F1), Precision (Pre), Recall (Rec), Specificity (Spe), and Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC) were used for performance evaluation. The proposed model achieved 99.33% Acc and 99.35% F1, outperforming CNN-based models such as BMRI-Net (98.69% Acc, 98.33% F1) and AlexNet (98.79% Acc, 98.82% F1). It also demonstrated competitive performance against MobileNetv2, which achieved a slightly higher Acc of 99.67%. This approach has significant potential for integration into clinical decision support systems, web and mobile diagnostic platforms, and hospital picture archiving and communication systems (PACS). These tools can aid in early diagnosis, improve diagnostic accuracy, and reduce evaluation time. However, challenges such as ensuring privacy, achieving generalizability across diverse datasets, and addressing infrastructure constraints must be addressed for seamless deployment. This study highlights the feasibility and potential of combining deep learning architectures to advance AI-driven tools in healthcare, ultimately improving clinical workflows and patient outcomes.
The effects of meta-creative pedagogy on elementary school students’ creative thinking
Authors: Paz-Baruch Nurit , Grovas Guy , Mevarech Zemira R.
Published: February 2025

Fostering creative thinking and promoting metacognitive processes are two major goals of 21st -century education. Recent research has pinpointed the essential role of meta-creativity in the process of creative thinking. Nevertheless, the concept of meta-creativity has not been widely adopted. The purpose of the present study is, therefore, threefold: (a) to design an innovative meta-creative pedagogy for fostering students’ creative thinking; (b) to examine the immediate and transfer effects of this pedagogy on three components of creative thinking: fluency, flexibility, and originality; and (c) to explore students’ perceptions of the extent to which they implement meta-creative processes during creative problem-solving procedures. Four sixth-grade classes (N = 100) were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. Two entire classes (N = 49) that were exposed to the meta-creative pedagogy served as the experimental group, while the other two classes were the control group (N = 51). Results indicated that on the immediate assessment of creative thinking, the experimental group scored significantly higher than their counterparts in the control group on fluency and originality, but not on flexibility. Regarding the transfer task, the experimental group scored significantly higher than the control group on all three creativity components: fluency, flexibility, and originality. Furthermore, students in the experimental group perceived their implementation of meta-creative processes to a greater extent than their counterparts in the control group. These findings highlight the benefits of using a meta-creative pedagogy to foster students’ creative thinking. The theoretical and practical implications of the study are discussed.
Retailer marketing mix response when launching a direct channel: Not all retailers are alike
Authors: Van Crombrugge Michiel , Breugelmans Els , Cleeren Kathleen , Neslin Scott A.
Published: February 2025

Many manufacturers introduce an online direct channel to create brand value that could benefit both manufacturer and retailers. However, retailers often view direct channel entry as a threat. Research on horizontal entry suggests retailers protect their sales by adjusting their marketing mix, particularly assortment and price. However, the direct channel is a vertical entry by a partner that is now also a competitor. The challenge for retailers is how to adjust their marketing mix. We employ a value creation/value capture framework to hypothesize and test how retailers contend for their “piece of the pie.” We analyze a consumer electronics manufacturer’s direct channel entry. The average retailer decreases assortment and increases price but there is ample heterogeneity depending on retailer characteristics. For example, small “mom-and-pop” stores follow the average, while large multichannel specialists increase assortment and increase price less. Manufacturers must develop segmentation strategies to market new direct channels to retailers.
Modified Martin Procedure for Megacystis Microcolon Intestinal Hypoperistalsis Syndrome (MMIHS)
Authors: Tian Li , Ma Chensen , Cao Peng , Yu Donghai
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To evaluate the therapeutic effect of the modified Martin procedure for patients with megacystis microcolon intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome (MMIHS).

Methods

The authors retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients diagnosed with MMIHS who underwent surgical treatment at their institute between August 2019 and June 2023. The modified Martin procedure and Bishop–Koop procedure were performed for the patients. Data, including demographics, operative time, intraoperative blood loss, complications and clinical outcomes, were collected.

Results

A total of 11 children with MMIHS were enrolled in this study. The mean age of the patients was 4.08 ± 1.69 y, and seven cases (63.64%) were male. The average operation time was 312.09 ± 108.88 min, with an average intraoperative blood loss of 25.82 ± 6.42 ml. The first postoperative defecation time was 3.60 ± 0.91 d. Patients took an average of 4.10 ± 0.40 d to resume eating after surgery, and their average length of hospital stay was 24.64 ± 4.52 d. Postoperative follow-up results showed that of the nine surviving children, two patients required intermittent intravenous nutrition support, and seven patients had successfully transitioned from parenteral nutrition support. In this study, two patients eventually died of multiple organ failure.

Conclusions

The modified Martin procedure is a promising method for treating MMIHS. The patients exhibited positive nutritional status and satisfactory outcomes during the follow-up period.
Bombus-plant interactions defined by bipartite network analysis in an underexplored Mediterranean island (Sicily)
Authors: Polidori Carlo , Barletti Beatrice R. , Quaranta Marino , Ferrari Andrea , De la Rúa Pilar
Published: February 2025

Bumblebees (Apidae: Bombus) are abundant pollinators in Mediterranean habitats; however, interaction networks with plants have not yet been investigated in large areas of Italy, including its islands. Here, we analyzed plant-bumblebee networks through seasonal transects in a suburban park and a nature reserve of Eastern Sicily. After molecular and morphological identification of bumblebees, we built bipartite networks extracting complementarity, niche overlap, modularity and nestedness. In total, we sampled 10 of the 15 species of Bombus known from Sicily. Richness was close to that predicted by accumulation curves, and no differences in community diversity were found between the two sites. At both sites, the networks were not nested, highly specialized and modular, with high complementarity and low niche overlap, again with no differences between sites. In both sites, species-level specialization varied considerably and was independent from sample size. The network topologies suggest a possible role of local interspecific competition and/or of interspecific morphological variation among generalist bumblebees. Comparison of previously published data revealed that networks in Mediterranean areas are more specialized than those with a continental climate. This suggests the possibility of increased competition and/or phenotypic variation under harsh Mediterranean conditions. The vulnerability of the Mediterranean basin to droughts caused by climate change calls for detailed studies on pollinator-plant networks for conservation plans.
Experimental discoveries of a variety of turbulent states of magnetic fusion plasma
Authors: Ida Katsumi
Published: February 2025

This paper presents significant experimental discoveries of various turbulent states of magnetically confined plasmas in far non-equilibrium states, providing a wealth of new knowledge to the field. The intricate interplay between a non-uniform radial electric field (mean

$$E \times B$$

E
×
B

flow shear and zonal flow) and turbulence in plasma, which gives rise to various turbulent states, is a complex yet fascinating area of study. The symmetry breaking of turbulence produces intrinsic torque and toroidal flow shear, while the pressure gradient produces poloidal flow shear. The turbulence produces the zonal flow (fluctuating

$$E \times B$$

E
×
B

flow with zero toroidal and poloidal mode numbers). Both the mean

$$E \times B$$

E
×
B

flow shear and zonal flow suppress the turbulence, which is the origin of this flow. The turbulence-dominant state and

$$E \times B$$

E
×
B

flow dominant state co-exist in the plasma in space and finally cause the various turbulent states and radial profiles of temperature and density of magnetically confined plasmas. The

$$E \times B$$

E
×
B

shear also significantly impacts the blocking of turbulence spreading, which is one of the origins of non-local transport. Interaction between micro-scale, mezo-scale, and macro-scale fluctuation is another mechanism that causes non-local transport. The magnetic topology (nested flux surface, magnetic island, and stochastic magnetic field) is also important in determining the characteristics of turbulence transport. The magnetic island provides an excellent platform for the study of turbulence spreading. Isotope mixing, a new concept in particle transport, is also discussed. The experimental discovery and comprehensive understanding of these processes are described.
Using the Baire category theorem to explore Lions problem for quasi-Banach spaces
Authors: Aksoy A. G. , Almira J. M.
Published: February 2025

Many results for Banach spaces also hold for quasi-Banach spaces. One important such example is results depending on the Baire category theorem (BCT). We use the BCT to explore Lions problem for a quasi-Banach couple

$$(A_0, A_1).$$

(

A
0

,

A
1

)
.

Lions problem, posed in 1960s, is to prove that different parameters

$$(\theta ,p)$$

(
θ
,
p
)

produce different interpolation spaces

$$(A_0, A_1)_{\theta , p}.$$

(

A
0

,

A
1

)

θ
,
p

.

We first establish conditions on

$$A_0$$

A
0

and

$$A_1$$

A
1

so that interpolation spaces of this couple are strictly intermediate spaces between

$$A_0+A_1$$

A
0

+

A
1

and

$$A_0\cap A_1.$$

A
0

∩

A
1

.

This result, together with a reiteration theorem, gives a partial solution to Lions problem for quasi-Banach couples. We then apply our interpolation result to (partially) answer a question posed by Pietsch. More precisely, we show that if

$$p\ne p^*$$

p
≠

p
∗

the operator ideals

$${\mathcal {L}}^{(a)}_{p,q}(X,Y),$$

L

p
,
q

(
a
)

(
X
,
Y
)

,

$${\mathcal {L}}^{(a)}_{p^*,q^*}(X,Y)$$

L

p
∗

,

q
∗

(
a
)

(
X
,
Y
)

generated by approximation numbers are distinct. Moreover, for any fixed p,  either all operator ideals

$${\mathcal {L}}^{(a)}_{p,q}(X,Y)$$

L

p
,
q

(
a
)

(
X
,
Y
)

collapse into a unique space or they are pairwise distinct. We cite counterexamples which show that using interpolation spaces is not appropriate to solve Pietsch’s problem for operator ideals based on general s-numbers. However, the BCT can be used to prove a lethargy result for arbitrary s-numbers which guarantees that, under very minimal conditions on X, Y,  the space

$${\mathcal {L}}^{(s)}_{p,q}(X,Y)$$

L

p
,
q

(
s
)

(
X
,
Y
)

is strictly embedded into

$${\mathcal {L}}^{\mathcal {A}}(X,Y).$$

L

A

(
X
,
Y
)

.