bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of robot-assisted versus video-assisted mediastinal mass resection during the initial learning curve
Authors: Zheng Chengwen , Ge Yong , Ma Tianyue , Pan Jiajian , Zhang Xueqiu , Sun Teng , Feng Shoujie , Zhang Hao
Published: February 2024

To compare the learning curve of mediastinal mass resection between robot-assisted surgery and thoracoscopic surgery. Retrospective perioperative data were collected from 160 mediastinal mass resection cases. Data included 80 initial consecutive video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) resection cases performed from February 2018 to February 2020 and 80 initial consecutive robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) resection cases performed from March 2020 to March 2023. All cases were operated on by a thoracic surgeon. The clinical characteristics and perioperative outcomes of the two groups were compared. The operation time in both the RATS group and VATS group was analyzed using the cumulative sum (CUSUM) method. Based on this method, the learning curves of both groups were divided into a learning period and mastery period. The VATS group and the RATS group crossed the inflection point in the 27th and 21st case, respectively. Subsequently, we found that the learning period was longer than the mastery period with statistically significant differences in terms of the operating time, and postoperative hospital stay in the VATS group and the RATS group. A certain amount of VATS experience can shorten the learning curve for RATS.
Students’ mathematics self-efficacy: a scoping review
Authors: Street Karin Elisabeth Sørlie , Malmberg Lars-Erik , Schukajlow Stanislaw
Published: February 2024

Students’ mathematics self-efficacy (MSE) is strongly associated with learning behaviours and performance, and students’ future career choices. In our scoping review, we screened what substantive foci (conceptualization, directionality and role of MSE, change in MSE, and situational specificity of MSE) have been posed and which methodological approaches (participants, analytical methods, data sources, and congruence of measures) have been used in recent (2018–2022) studies of MSE. Studies of MSE were clearly in the mathematics domain with 21 of 49 included studies exploring specific mathematics areas. The key focus was on strength of MSE. International databases (i.e., PISA) have enabled broad generalization, while in-depth qualitative studies enable minute situation-specificity. Cross-sectional and longitudinal studies using hierarchically nested designs (i.e., students in classrooms) enable us to draw conclusions at both individual, classroom, and school levels. The current state-of-the-art indicates methodological advancement is rapid and we are likely to see further methodological-substantive synergies in the field of MSE in future studies. We see the potential and need for future mixed-methods studies that continue the focus on MSE as a multidimensional and dynamic concept. Careful consideration of the theoretical background of the construct of MSE continues to be important to bring the field forward.
Guidelines for Neuroprognostication in Critically Ill Adults with Moderate–Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Muehlschlegel Susanne , Rajajee Venkatakrishna , Wartenberg Katja E. , Alexander Sheila A. , Busl Katharina M. , Creutzfeldt Claire J. , Fontaine Gabriel V. , Hocker Sara E. , Hwang David Y. , Kim Keri S. , Madzar Dominik , Mahanes Dea , Mainali Shraddha , Meixensberger Juergen , Sakowitz Oliver W. , Varelas Panayiotis N. , Weimar Christian , Westermaier Thomas
Published: February 2024

Background

Moderate–severe traumatic brain injury (msTBI) carries high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Accurate neuroprognostication is essential in guiding clinical decisions, including patient triage and transition to comfort measures. Here we provide recommendations regarding the reliability of major clinical predictors and prediction models commonly used in msTBI neuroprognostication, guiding clinicians in counseling surrogate decision-makers.

Methods

Using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology, we conducted a systematic narrative review of the most clinically relevant predictors and prediction models cited in the literature. The review involved framing specific population/intervention/comparator/outcome/timing/setting (PICOTS) questions and employing stringent full-text screening criteria to examine the literature, focusing on four GRADE criteria: quality of evidence, desirability of outcomes, values and preferences, and resource use. Moreover, good practice recommendations addressing the key principles of neuroprognostication were drafted.

Results

After screening 8125 articles, 41 met our eligibility criteria. Ten clinical variables and nine grading scales were selected. Many articles varied in defining “poor” functional outcomes. For consistency, we treated “poor” as “unfavorable”. Although many clinical variables are associated with poor outcome in msTBI, only the presence of bilateral pupillary nonreactivity on admission, conditional on accurate assessment without confounding from medications or injuries, was deemed moderately reliable for counseling surrogates regarding 6-month functional outcomes or in-hospital mortality. In terms of prediction models, the Corticosteroid Randomization After Significant Head Injury (CRASH)-basic, CRASH-CT (CRASH-basic extended by computed tomography features), International Mission for Prognosis and Analysis of Clinical Trials in TBI (IMPACT)-core, IMPACT-extended, and IMPACT-lab models were recommended as moderately reliable in predicting 14-day to 6-month mortality and functional outcomes at 6 months and beyond. When using “moderately reliable” predictors or prediction models, the clinician must acknowledge “substantial” uncertainty in the prognosis.

Conclusions

These guidelines provide recommendations to clinicians on the formal reliability of individual predictors and prediction models of poor outcome when counseling surrogates of patients with msTBI and suggest broad principles of neuroprognostication.
Therapeutic Potential Effect of Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 Beta (GSK-3β) Inhibitors in Parkinson Disease: Exploring an Overlooked Avenue
Authors: Turkistani Areej , Al-kuraishy Hayder M. , Al-Gareeb Ali I. , Albuhadily Ali K. , Alexiou Athanasios , Papadakis Marios , Elfiky Mohamed M. , Saad Hebatallah M. , Batiha Gaber El-Saber
Published: February 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease of the brain due to degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN). Glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β) is implicated in the pathogenesis of PD. Therefore, the purpose of the present review was to revise the mechanistic role of GSK-3β in PD neuropathology, and how GSK-3β inhibitors affect PD neuropathology. GSK-3 is a conserved threonine/serine kinase protein that is intricate in the regulation of cellular anabolic and catabolic pathways by modulating glycogen synthase. Over-expression of GSK-3β is also interconnected with the development of different neurodegenerative diseases. However, the underlying mechanism of GSK-3β in PD neuropathology is not fully clarified. Over-expression of GSK-3β induces the development of PD by triggering mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in the dopaminergic neurons of the SN. NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome are activated in response to dysregulated GSK-3β in PD leading to progressive neuronal injury. Higher expression of GSK-3β in the early stages of PD neuropathology might contribute to the reduction of neuroprotective brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Thus, GSK-3β inhibitors may be effective in PD by reducing inflammatory and oxidative stress disorders which are associated with degeneration of dopaminergic in the SN.
Controlling a Free Surface With Thermocapillary Flows and Vibrations in Microgravity
Authors: Plaza Jose , Gligor Dan , Salgado Sánchez Pablo , Rodríguez Jacobo , Olfe Karl
Published: February 2024

Fluid manipulation and control is crucial for space exploration. Motivated by the “Thermocapillary-based control of a free surface in microgravity" (ThermoSlosh) experiment (Salgado Sánchez et al. in Acta Astronautica 205:57–67, 2023), we conduct here a detailed numerical analysis of interfacial dynamics in a two-dimensional cylindrical cell, half-filled with different silicone oils or a fluorinert, and subjected to thermal forcing and vibrations. The effect on the free surface dynamics of the applied temperature difference, vibrational amplitude, fluid viscosity, and contact angle is analyzed; both static and dynamic contact angle models are considered. Results strongly suggest that thermocapillary flows can be used to control the interface orientation within the cell, while supplemental vibrations can be added to increase the system responsiveness. This control can be further improved by using classical proportional-integral-derivative feedback to adjust the cell boundary temperatures in real-time. The proportional and derivative gains of the controller can be selected to optimize the stabilization time and/or energy cost, while the integral contribution is effective in reducing the steady-state error. Overall, the present analysis highlights the potential of using the thermocapillary effect for fluid management in reduced gravity, and evaluates different types of experimental tests that can be executed in the frame of the ThermoSlosh microgravity project.
Coping Power-Rural: Iterative Adaptation of an Evidence-Based Preventive Intervention for Rural Upper Elementary and Middle Schools
Authors: Nguyen Amanda J. , Hersh Jacqueline , Beahm Lydia , Henderson Smith Lora , Newman Courtney , Birchfield Katelyn , Michael Kurt , Bradshaw Catherine P.
Published: February 2024

Background

Educators in rural schools are uniquely situated to address youth mental health disparities, yet often face challenges in delivering mental health supports. This paper describes the process of adapting the evidence-based Coping Power program, a small group prevention program for youth with aggressive behavior problems, to be a two-tiered (Tier 1 and Tier 2), transdiagnostic intervention to improve fit and feasibility for rural upper elementary and middle schools.

Method

Identified challenges with the Coping Power program for rural areas included program length, substantial staffing and resource requirements, lack of universal programming, low caregiver engagement, and co-occurring problems. Initial adaptations included a classroom and small group format implemented by school staff, teacher consultations integrated into coaching and co-facilitation, and a technology-supported caregiver component. Implementer feedback forms, coaching notes, and individual interviews informed the iterative development and feasibility testing process.

Results

Between 2019 and 2023, thirteen schools across six rural districts implemented the program. Student curriculum revisions included order and relative emphasis of content, classroom and small group overlap, necessary simplification of concepts, improved contextualization to the rural setting, and the addition of student workbooks. Supports for implementers included fully developed lesson plans and slides, a comprehensive implementation manual, video lesson overviews, action-focused training, and a 3-session coaching model to support implementer preparation and sustain motivation. Teacher and caregiver infographic text “nudges” were improved to promote generalization of concepts across settings.

Discussion

By partnering with school-based implementers, the adapted program holds promise to be more feasible and appealing for rural schools than the original model. This fully developed program is now ready for larger-scale testing in rural schools.
Sonic Sleight of Hand: Sound Induces Illusory Distortions in the Perception and Prediction of Robot Action
Authors: Currie Joel , Giannaccini Maria Elena , Bach Patric
Published: February 2024

For efficient human–robot interaction, human operators need to be able to efficiently represent the robot’s movements in space and predict its next steps. However, according to frameworks of Bayesian multisensory integration, features outside the motion itself—like the sounds a robot makes while it moves—should affect how otherwise identical motions are perceived. Here, we translate an established psychophysical task from experimental psychology to a human–robot interaction context, which can measure these distortions to motion perception. In two series of preregistered studies, participants watched a humanoid robot make forward and backward reaching movements. When the robot hand suddenly disappeared, they reported its last seen location, either with the mouse cursor (Experiment 1a and 1b) or by matching it to probe stimuli in different locations (Experiment 2a and 2b). The results revealed that even small changes to the robot’s sound robustly affect participants’ visuospatial representation of its motions, so that the motion appeared to extend further in space when accompanied by slightly (100 ms) longer sounds compared to slightly shorter sounds (100 ms shorter). Moreover, these sound changes do not only affect where people currently locate the robot’s motion, but where they anticipate its future steps. These findings show that sound design is an effective medium for manipulating how people represent otherwise identical robot actions and coordinate its interactions with it. The study acts as proof of concept that psychophysical tasks provide a promising tool to measure how design parameters influence the perception and prediction of robot motion.
Unmasking overestimation: a re-evaluation of deep anomaly detection in spacecraft telemetry
Authors: Herrmann Lars , Bieber Marie , Verhagen Wim J. C. , Cosson Fabrice , Santos Bruno F.
Published: February 2024

As the volume of telemetry data generated by satellites and other complex systems continues to grow, there is a pressing need for more efficient and accurate anomaly detection methods. Current techniques often rely on human analysis and preset criteria, presenting several challenges including the necessity for expert interpretation and continual updates to match the dynamic mission environment. This paper critically examines the use of deep anomaly detection (DAD) methods in addressing these challenges, evaluating their efficacy on real-world spacecraft telemetry data. It exposes limitations in current DAD research, highlighting the tendency for performance results to be overestimated and suggesting that simpler methods can sometimes outperform more complex DAD algorithms. By comparing established metrics for anomaly detection with newly proposed ones, this paper aims to improve the evaluation of DAD algorithms. It underscores the importance of using less accuracy-inflating metrics and offers a comprehensive comparison of DAD methods on popular benchmark datasets and real-life satellite telemetry data. Among the DAD methods examined, the LSTM algorithm demonstrates considerable promise. However, the paper also reveals the potential limitations of this approach, particularly in complex systems that lack a single, clear predictive failure channel. The paper concludes with a series of recommendations for future research, including the adoption of best practices, the need for high-quality, pre-split datasets, and the investigation of other prediction error methods. Through these insights, this paper contributes to the improved understanding and application of DAD methods, ultimately enhancing the reliability and effectiveness of anomaly detection in real-world scenarios.
Consensus document on the clinical application of invasive functional coronary angiography from the Japanese Association of Cardiovascular Intervention and Therapeutics
Authors: Asano Taku , Tanigaki Toru , Ikeda Kazumasa , Ono Masafumi , Yokoi Hiroyoshi , Kobayashi Yoshio , Kozuma Ken , Tanaka Nobuhiro , Kawase Yoshiaki , Matsuo Hitoshi
Published: February 2024

Invasive functional coronary angiography (FCA), an angiography-derived physiological index of the functional significance of coronary obstruction, is a novel physiological assessment tool for coronary obstruction that does not require the utilization of a pressure wire. This technology enables operators to rapidly evaluate the functional relevance of coronary stenoses during and even after angiography while reducing the burden of cost and complication risks related to the pressure wire. FCA can be used for treatment decision-making for revascularization, strategy planning for percutaneous coronary intervention, and procedure optimization. Currently, various software-computing FCAs are available worldwide, with unique features in their computation algorithms and functions. With the emerging application of this novel technology in various clinical scenarios, the Japanese Association of Cardiovascular Intervention and Therapeutics task force was created to outline expert consensus on the clinical use of FCA. This consensus document advocates optimal clinical applications of FCA according to currently available evidence while summarizing the concept, history, limitations, and future perspectives of FCA along with globally available software.

Graphical abstract

Overview and proposed clinical applications of functional coronary angiography (FCA). The FCA was developed according to computed fluid dynamics (CFD), considering the pressure drop across the coronary stenosis. CFD analysis was performed with a three-dimensional coronary model derived from angiography, allowing the calculation of the physiological index without the use of a pressure wire. Another direction of development in FCA is using artificial intelligence throughout the entire process, enabling “hands-free” FFR simulation. The advantage of the FCA is that it eliminates the use of a pressure wire, resulting in reduced invasiveness, shorter procedure times, and reduced medical costs. However, FCA requires high-quality angiography for a clear visualization of the lesion. In addition, the current version of FCA requires several manual corrections; thus, its reproducibility is limited. Further data on clinical outcomes after the use of FCA, such as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with FCA guidance, are warranted. The consensus group of the Japanese Association of Cardiovascular Intervention and Therapeutics proposed the application of FCA in various clinical scenarios considering the advantages of this technology. QFR, quantitative flow ratio; iFR, instantaneous wave-free ratio; CCS, chronic coronary syndrome; ACS, acute coronary syndrome; MVD, multivessel disease; AMI, acute myocardial infarction.
Estimation and bio-valorisation of food industry by-products in Northern Europe
Authors: Soloha Raimonda , Lukasa Liva Kristiana , Dace Elina
Published: February 2024

The lack of quantitative data regarding the geographical availability of secondary bioresources hinders the exploration of regional valorisation opportunities within the context of circular bioeconomy. The study aimed to identify the main by-products of the food processing and manufacturing industry in eight Northern European countries, including Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden, and propose potential bio-valorisation solutions for these by-products to derive value-added products. By analysing available Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) statistics for the period between 2015 and 2020 and reviewing the scientific literature, by-product volumes were estimated and respective bio-valorisation methods were summarised in two separate databases. The first database lists the processed food products, their by-products and estimated volumes, while the second details the bio-valorisation methods applicable to these by-products. Estimated by-product volumes provide an understanding of their availability in the Northern European region. Our findings revealed that fresh whey is the predominant by-product in the region, with Denmark generating the highest average volume of 2318.3 kt/year. Similarly, sugar beet pulp, also highest in Denmark, averaged 1421.3 kt/year. Among the bio-valorisation methods studied, whey and brewer’s spent grain were the most used substrates, with xylanases, ethanol, and acetic acid being the primary value-added products. This research offers valuable data-driven insights to support the circular bioeconomy in Northern Europe while demonstrating an approach to estimating food industry by-product volumes using commonly reported statistical data.

Graphical Abstract
A randomized, double-blind, active-controlled trial assessing the efficacy and safety of a fixed-dose combination (FDC) of MEtformin hydrochloride 1000 mg ER, SItagliptin phosphate 100 mg, and DApagliflozin propanediol 10 mg in Indian adults with type 2 diabetes: The MESIDA trial
Authors: Singh Awadhesh Kumar , Sahay Rakesh , Gil Navneet , Tripathi Sudhir , Khandelwal Vipul , Basu Indraneel , Shembalkar Jayashree , Srivastava Manoj Kumar , Bhatia Girish , Pathak Vaishali , Dange Amol , Chaudhri Mayura , Naskar Arindam , Mondal Ashish , Gangwal Pawan , Kumar Surendra , Kumar Deepak , Raju Yandrapati gnana sundara , Sorate Sanket , Gavli Onkar , Kumbalkar Sunita , Varade Deepak , Chaudhari Harshal , Prasad Durga , Patil Manoj , Bhagwat Nikhil , Agarwal Rohit , Pandey Arun , Ghosh Soumya , Patil Shubhashree , Kini Vishal , Sharma Akhilesh , Mayabhate Mayur , Pawar Roshan , Rajput Aashish , Shahavi Vinakaya
Published: February 2024

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of fixed-dose combinations (FDC) of triple-drug dapagliflozin, sitagliptin, and metformin (DSM) compared with FDC of two-drug sitagliptin and metformin (SM), in Indian adult patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

A multicentric, randomized, double-blind, active-controlled, Phase 3 study (CTRI/2021/10/037461) was conducted on 274 Indian adult patients with T2D. Patients were randomized (1:1) to receive either an FDC of triple-drug (n = 137) dapagliflozin propanediol 10 mg, sitagliptin phosphate 100 mg, and metformin hydrochloride 1000 mg extended-release (DSM) or FDC of two-drug (n = 137) sitagliptin phosphate 100 mg and metformin hydrochloride 1000 mg sustained-release (SM), for 16 weeks. The primary endpoint was a change in HbA1c, while the secondary endpoints were changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG), postprandial glucose (PPG), body weight, and safety.

Results

Both DSM and SM FDCs reduced HbA1c significantly (-1.45% and -1.00%, respectively, both p < 0.0001), however, HbA1c lowering was superior with DSM (∆ -0.45%; p = 0.0005) compared to SM, at week 16. Similarly, both DSM and SM FDCs reduced FPG and PPG significantly, however, FPG (∆ -12.4 mg/dl; p = 0.003) and PPG reduction (∆ -18.45 mg/dl; p = 0.01) were significantly superior to DSM compared to SM, respectively. No significant reduction in body weight was observed between the two arms. Both FDCs were well tolerated.

Conclusion

FDC of DSM was superior to SM in reducing HbA1c, FPG, and PPG in Indian adults with T2D. Both triple and dual FDCs had optimal safety profiles.
Reconstructed Human Skin with Hypodermis Shows Essential Role of Adipose Tissue in Skin Metabolism
Authors: Jäger Jonas , Vahav Irit , Thon Maria , Waaijman Taco , Spanhaak Bas , de Kok Michael , Bhogal Ranjit K. , Gibbs Susan , Koning Jasper J.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Dysregulation of skin metabolism is associated with a plethora of diseases such as psoriasis and dermatitis. Until now, reconstructed human skin (RhS) models lack the metabolic potential of native human skin, thereby limiting their relevance to study human healthy and diseased skin. We aimed to determine whether incorporation of an adipocyte-containing hypodermis into RhS improves its metabolic potential and to identify major metabolic pathways up-regulated in adipose-RhS.

Methods:

Primary human keratinocytes, fibroblasts and differentiated adipose-derived stromal cells were co-cultured in a collagen/fibrin scaffold to create an adipose-RhS. The model was extensively characterized structurally in two- and three-dimensions, by cytokine secretion and RNA-sequencing for metabolic enzyme expression.

Results:

Adipose-RhS showed increased secretion of adipokines. Both RhS and adipose-RhS expressed 29 of 35 metabolic genes expressed in ex vivo native human skin. Addition of the adipose layer resulted in up-regulation of 286 genes in the dermal-adipose fraction of which 7 were involved in phase I (CYP19A1, CYP4F22, CYP3A5, ALDH3B2, EPHX3) and phase II (SULT2B1, GPX3) metabolism. Vitamin A, D and carotenoid metabolic pathways were enriched. Additionally, pro-inflammatory (IL-1β, IL-18, IL-23, IL-33, IFN-α2, TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10, IL-12p70) secretion was reduced in adipose-RhS.

Conclusions:

Adipose-RhS mimics healthy native human skin more closely than traditional RhS since it has a less inflamed phenotype and a higher metabolic activity, indicating the contribution of adipocytes to tissue homeostasis. Therefore it is better suited to study onset of skin diseases and the effect of xenobiotics.
Antiviral Nanomedicine-Based Approaches against Epstein-Barr Virus Infection
Authors: Abdelmonem Mohamed , Abdullah Che Azurahanim Che , Bastawecy Iman M. , Raof Amal M. A. , Afify Ahmed F. , El Naggar Rania F. , Rohaim Mohammed A. , Munir Muhammad
Published: February 2024

Purpose of Review

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a common virus around the globe with approximately 98% of adults testing positive against EBV. However, EBV infection typically begins early in the childhood. Owing to the ability to infect various body organ, EBV is linked to a broad spectrum of symptoms, diseases, and inflammatory conditions. Moreover, since EBV exists in both latent and replicating forms in most healthy individuals, any disruption in the balance between the virus and its host can lead to the development of different diseases, including autoimmune disorders and cancer. Given these circumstances, we draw attention to the crucial need for developing prophylactic measures and treatments for EBV and its associated diseases.

Recent Findings

We propose leveraging the advantages of nanomedicine, such as ferritin and iron oxide nanoparticles, for the creation of EBV vaccines. These advancements can also be applied to developing drugs to treat EBV-associated diseases, such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and cytokine storm syndrome.

We emphasize the urgency of having accessible EBV vaccines, as well as effective treatments for EBV-related diseases, especially when early diagnosis is involved. This approach, which includes comprehensive cytokine profiling for patients, can significantly enhance the effectiveness of treatment programs.
The variance and correlations of the divisor function in $${\mathbb {F}}_q [T]$$, and Hankel matrices
Authors: Yiasemides Michael
Published: February 2024

We prove an exact formula for the variance of the divisor function over short intervals in $${\mathcal {A}}:= {\mathbb {F}}_q [T]$$

A
:
=

F
q

[
T
]

, where q is a prime power; and for correlations of the form $$d(A) d(A+B)$$

d
(
A
)
d
(
A
+
B
)

, where we average both A and B over certain intervals in $${\mathcal {A}}$$
A
. We also obtain an exact formula for correlations of the form $$d(KQ+N) d (N)$$

d
(
K
Q
+
N
)
d
(
N
)

, where Q is prime and K and N are averaged over certain intervals with $${{\,\textrm{deg}\,}}N \le {{\,\textrm{deg}\,}}Q -1 \le {{\,\textrm{deg}\,}}K$$

deg

N
≤

deg

Q
-
1
≤

deg

K

; and we demonstrate that $$d(KQ+N)$$

d
(
K
Q
+
N
)

and d(N) are uncorrelated. We generalize our results to $$\sigma _z$$

σ
z

defined by $$\sigma _z (A):= \sum _{E \mid A} |A |^z$$

σ
z

(
A
)

:
=

∑

E
∣
A

|
A
|

z

for all monics $$A \in {\mathcal {A}}$$

A
∈
A

. Our approach is to use the orthogonality relations of additive characters on $${\mathbb {F}}_q$$

F
q

to translate the problems to ones involving the ranks of Hankel matrices over $${\mathbb {F}}_q$$

F
q

. We prove several results regarding the rank and kernel structure of these matrices, thus demonstrating their number-theoretic properties. We also discuss extending our method to other divisor sums, such as those involving $$d_k$$

d
k

.
Progressive damage and fracture behavior of brittle rock under multi-axial prestress constraint and cyclic impact load coupling
Authors: Zhang Jinrui , Luo Yi , Huang Junhong , Gong Hangli , Wang Jianping
Published: February 2024

To explore the progressive damage and fracture mechanics characteristics of brittle rock materials under combined dynamic-static loading. Taking account of the coupling effect of the constraint states of uniaxial stress (σ1 ≥ σ2 = σ3 = 0), biaxial stress (σ1 ≥ σ2 > σ3 = 0) and true triaxial stress (σ1 ≥ σ2 ≥ σ3 ≠ 0) and impact load, the strain rate effect and prestress constraint effect of dynamic mechanical characteristics of sandstone are studied. The progressive damage evolution law of sandstone under the coupling of true triaxial stress constraint and cyclic impact load is discussed. The results show that with the increase of axial stress σ1, the dynamic compressive strength and peak strain gradually decrease, and the strain rate gradually increases, resulting in crushing failure under high strain rate. When the axial stress is fixed, the lateral stress constraint reduces the damage degree of sandstone and improves the dynamic compressive strength. With the increase of strain rate, the sample changes from slight splitting failure to inclined shear failure mode. Under the true triaxial stress constraint, the intermediate principal stress σ2 obviously enhances the dynamic compressive strength of sandstone. Under the constraints of triaxial stress, biaxial stress and uniaxial stress, the enhancement effect of dynamic compressive strength and the deformation resistance of sandstone are weakened in turn. Under the coupling of true triaxial stress constraint and high strain rate, sandstone samples show obvious progressive damage evolution effect under repeated impacts, and eventually inclined shear failure occurs, resulting in complete loss of bearing capacity.
A concise review on BTEX remediation from aqueous solutions by adsorption
Authors: Almuhtaseb Roba M. , Bhagyaraj Sneha , Krupa Igor
Published: February 2024

The adequate provision of clean water for the emerging population is a global issue. This emphasises the importance of detecting and eradicating toxic pollutants from water and the environment. Being a major pollutant of water resources, the importance of detection and remediation of BTEX compounds from environment is highly significant and challenging. This review article summarises the recent studies provided in literature on the remediation of BTEX from aqueous solution by adsorption process. Adsorption technology is among the most promising technique in BTEX removal due to its low energy requirements, low operating costs, simplicity, and its effectiveness. Different types of adsorptive materials used in BTEX removal from aqueous media are explained together with its classification and effectiveness under number of physicochemical operation factors. The effect of various factors such as temperature, initial BTEX concentration, solution pH, and adsorbent dosage on the adsorption capacity and efficiency of BTEX removal by various adsorbents is discussed. It also addresses some prevailing gaps in this area of research together with some suggestions for the upcoming research focuses.

Graphical Abstract
Model Change Active Learning in Graph-Based Semi-supervised Learning
Authors: Miller Kevin S. , Bertozzi Andrea L.
Published: February 2024

Active learning in semi-supervised classification involves introducing additional labels for unlabelled data to improve the accuracy of the underlying classifier. A challenge is to identify which points to label to best improve performance while limiting the number of new labels. “Model Change” active learning quantifies the resulting change incurred in the classifier by introducing the additional label(s). We pair this idea with graph-based semi-supervised learning (SSL) methods, that use the spectrum of the graph Laplacian matrix, which can be truncated to avoid prohibitively large computational and storage costs. We consider a family of convex loss functions for which the acquisition function can be efficiently approximated using the Laplace approximation of the posterior distribution. We show a variety of multiclass examples that illustrate improved performance over prior state-of-art.
The solvability of inhomogeneous boundary-value problems in Sobolev spaces
Authors: Mikhailets Vladimir , Atlasiuk Olena
Published: February 2024

The aim of the paper is to develop a general theory of solvability of linear inhomogeneous boundary-value problems for systems of ordinary differential equations of arbitrary order in Sobolev spaces. Boundary conditions are allowed to be overdetermined or underdetermined. They may contain derivatives, of the unknown vector-valued function, whose integer or fractional orders exceed the order of the differential equation. Similar problems arise naturally in various applications. The theory introduces the notion of a rectangular number characteristic matrix of the problem. The index and Fredholm numbers of this matrix coincide, respectively, with the index and Fredholm numbers of the inhomogeneous boundary-value problem. Unlike the index, the Fredholm numbers (i.e., the dimensions of the problem kernel and co-kernel) are unstable even with respect to small (in the norm) finite-dimensional perturbations. We give examples in which the characteristic matrix can be explicitly found. We also prove a limit theorem for a sequence of characteristic matrices. Specifically, it follows from this theorem that the Fredholm numbers of the problems under investigation are semicontinuous in the strong operator topology. Such a property ceases to be valid in the general case.
Sienese Hospitals within and beyond the City Walls
Authors: Loose Guerrero Sarah
Published: February 2024

This book combines the history of charitable institutions with the study of power in urban and rural spaces from the late medieval to the early modern era. Focusing on the Ospedale di Santa Maria della Scala in Siena, the book goes beyond examining hospitals in an urban context to also consider the significant impact of charitable institutions in rural spaces. Case studies of Santa Maria della Scala's farms allow an investigation of the relationship between urban institutions and their rural properties, while looking at subject hospitals outside the Sienese state offers a glimpse into the competition for power with non-Sienese entities. As Siena's politics shifted in the sixteenth century, Santa Maria della Scala and its rural spaces became sites where power was negotiated. The book thus demonstrates how geographies of power affected the practice of charity for both urban hospitals and the rural communities they influenced.
Essay on the Life and Manners of Robert Grosseteste
Authors: Perry Philip
Published: February 2024

This eighteenth-century study of the life and writings of the medieval English bishop Robert Grosseteste was too scandalous to be published in its author's lifetime. It is now available in print for the first time, showing how Grosseteste's reputation continued to be contested five centuries after his death.
The Woman and the Dragon in Premodern Art
Authors: Khalifa-Gueta Sharon
Published: February 2024

The motif of the woman and the dragon has been prevalent in Western art since antiquity, yet has hitherto remained understudied, and artworks featuring this motif in Western Mediterranean cultures have been examined primarily in relation to the topos of the male dragon-slayer. This book analyzes artistic images of women and dragons over an extensive period, from Classical Greece and Rome (with forays to Egypt and Mesopotamia) to the early modern period in Western Europe. The unique methodology employed in the study of this motif reveals its sacred core, as well as its relationship to rituals of fertility and oracular knowledge, to the liminal realm between life and death, and to the symbolism of Great Mother goddesses. At the same time, the images explored throughout expose stereotypes and biases against women in unusual positions of power, which were embedded in the motif and persisted in Western European art.
Seis2Rock: A Data‐Driven Approach to Direct Petrophysical Inversion of Pre‐Stack Seismic Data
Authors: Corrales M. , Hoteit H. , Ravasi M.
Published: February 2024

The inversion of petrophysical parameters from seismic data represents a fundamental step in the process of characterizing the subsurface, with applications ranging from subsurface resource exploration to geothermal, carbon capture and storage, and hydrogen storage. We propose a novel, data‐driven approach, named Seis2Rock, that utilizes optimal basis functions learned from well‐log information to create a direct link between pre‐stack seismic data and so‐called band‐limited petrophysical reflectivities. Seis2Rock is composed of two stages: training and inference. During training, a set of optimal basis functions are identified by performing singular value decomposition on one or more synthetic amplitude variation with offset gathers created from measured or rock‐physics synthesized elastic well logs. In inference, seismic pre‐stack data are first projected into a set of band‐limited petrophysical reflectivities using the previously computed basis functions; this is followed by regularized post‐stack seismic inversion of the individual properties. In this work, we apply the Seis2Rock methodology to a synthetic data set based on the Smeaheia reservoir model and to the open Volve field data set. Our numerical results reveal the ability of the proposed method in recovering accurate porosity, shale content, and water saturation models. Finally, the proposed methodology is applied in the context of reservoir monitoring to invert time‐lapse, pre‐stack seismic data for water saturation changes.
Fast Transit of Carbon Inputs in Global Soil Profiles Regardless of Entering Depth
Authors: Wang Guocheng , Wang Mingming , Xiao Liujun , Sierra Carlos A. , Chang Jinfeng , Shi Zhou , Luo Zhongkui
Published: February 2024

Climate and land management changes are altering carbon inputs to soil. The consequence of such input changes on long‐term soil organic carbon (SOC) balance depends on the transit behavior of carbon inputs. Using observational carbon input and radiocarbon data in global soil profiles, we reveal that on average nearly 25% of new entering carbon leave soil in 1 year irrespective of entering depth, and the remained fraction after 30 years is only ∼13%. Nevertheless, the majority of SOC is older than 30 years in all soil depths. Together, these results demonstrate low transfer efficiency of carbon inputs to aged SOC which is the meaningful carbon component for long‐term SOC sequestration. Additionally, we reveal that SOC aging and carbon input transiting are two distinct processes, which should be simultaneously, but mechanistical‐separately, considered to predict and manage SOC dynamics in response to carbon input changes under climate and land management changes.
Biodegradation of Ancient Organic Carbon Fuels Seabed Methane Emission at the Arctic Continental Shelves
Authors: You Kehua
Published: February 2024

This study explores the carbon stability in the Arctic permafrost following the sea‐level transgression since the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). The Arctic permafrost stores a significant amount of organic carbon sequestered as frozen particulate organic carbon, solid methane hydrate and free methane gas. Post‐LGM sea‐level transgression resulted in ocean water, which is up to 20°C warmer compared to the average annual air mass, inundating, and thawing the permafrost. This study develops a one‐dimensional multiphase flow, multicomponent transport numerical model and apply it to investigate the coupled thermal, hydraulic, microbial, and chemical processes occurring in the thawing subsea permafrost. Results show that microbial methane is produced and vented to the seawater immediately upon the flooding of the Arctic continental shelves. This microbial methane is generated by the biodegradation of the previously frozen organic carbon. The maximum seabed methane flux is predicted in the shallow water where the sediment has been warmed up, but the remaining amount of organic carbon is still high. It is less likely to cause seabed methane emission by methane hydrate dissociation. Such a situation only happens when there is a very shallow (∼200 m depth) intra‐permafrost methane hydrate, the occurrence of which is limited. This study provides insights into the limits of methane release from the ongoing flooding of the Arctic permafrost, which is critical to understand the role of the Arctic permafrost in the carbon cycle, ocean chemistry and climate change.
An Empirical Model for Mercury’s Field‐Aligned Currents Derived From MESSENGER Magnetometer Data
Authors: Stephens G. K. , Korth H.
Published: February 2024

Mercury is the only planetary magnetosphere which does not possess a significantly conducting ionosphere, yet magnetic field observations by the Mariner 10 and MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, GEochemistry, and Ranging (MESSENGER) missions revealed a stable presence of large‐scale field‐aligned currents (FACs). Several empirical magnetic field models have been developed to describe Mercury’s magnetospheric currents and their associated magnetic fields, but none attempted to include an explicit description of large‐scale FACs. Here, we describe a dynamic FAC magnetic field model for Mercury based on the analytical solution to conical currents, which are shielded by a dynamic magnetopause boundary. The model contains free parameters setting the FACs' latitudinal extent and amplitude as functions of magnetospheric activity. The parameters are fit by minimizing the root‐mean‐square (RMS) differences between the model and MESSENGER Magnetometer data. During magnetically quiet conditions, the modeled FACs have an intensity of ∼10 nA/m2 and extend in latitude from ∼83°N to ∼40°N. They intensify to ∼20 nA/m2 and expand equatorward to ∼28°N during the most active times. The inclusion of the FAC model reduces low‐altitude RMS residuals by 8.1% when compared to prior models. The model effectively captures the azimuthal component of the magnetic field present in the MESSENGER low‐altitude data, but largely misses the radial and co‐latitudinal components, indicating other large‐scale physics remain missing in the mathematical descriptions of Mercury's magnetosphere.
Possible Global Generation Region of Nonlinear Whistler‐Mode Chorus Emission Waves at Mercury
Authors: Ozaki Mitsunori , Kondo Takeru , Yagitani Satoshi , Hikishima Mitsuru , Omura Yoshiharu
Published: February 2024

Chorus waves are a kind of intense electromagnetic emission wave in magnetized planets and can play important roles in the kinetic electron dynamics in planetary magnetospheres. Rapid changes of the ring electron current belt in Mercury’s magnetosphere and the contribution of chorus waves have remained long‐standing scientific issues from the first Mercury flyby observations by Mariner 10 in 1970s because of the small size of the magnetosphere. Based on theoretical analyses and simulations successfully reconstructing Earth’s chorus wave properties, we report on possible generation regions of chorus waves in Mercury’s magnetosphere. The theoretical analysis for low‐temperature‐anisotropy electrons shows a clear asymmetric day–night spatial distribution of the possible chorus generation region because of the difference in the nonlinear convective wave growth along the magnetic field lines. Simulation results show a rapid enhancement of the ring electron current belt by resonant interactions with repetitive chorus waves. Our study suggests that energetic electrons in Mercury’s magnetosphere can be enhanced locally by nonlinear chorus wave–particle interactions.
The Role of Climatological State in Supporting US Heat Waves Through Rossby Waves Packets
Authors: Castañeda Valentina , Wang Lei
Published: February 2024

While heat waves are local extreme weather events, a slowly propagating planetary‐scale Rossby wave pattern is statistically correlated to the occurrence of heat waves in the US. However, whether this correlation indicates that such planetary wave patterns physically cause the enhanced statistics of local heat waves is debatable. In this work, we hypothesize that the atmospheric climatological state controls the slowly propagating wave pattern, setting up a conducive large‐scale environment for local US heat waves. We implement an idealized dry dynamic core model with an iterative approach to simulate the realistic North American summer climatological state. As the idealized atmospheric model can generate similar zonal wavenumber five planetary wave patterns propagating throughout North America, significantly more heat waves are generated, and the statistics of heat waves become consistent with those estimated in reanalysis products. The slowly propagating Rossby wave packets with a timescale of 20–30 days may serve as a new source of intraseasonal predictability in the midlatitudes.
Atmospheric Rivers in Southeast Alaska: Meteorological Conditions Associated With Extreme Precipitation
Authors: Nash Deanna , Rutz Jonathan J. , Jacobs Aaron
Published: February 2024

Extreme precipitation events associated with atmospheric rivers (ARs) trigger floods, landslides, and avalanches that threaten lives and livelihoods in Southeast Alaska. Six rural and indigenous communities (Hoonah, Klukwan, Skagway, Yakutat, Craig, and Kasaan) identified specific needs regarding these hazards and joined the Southeast Alaska Coastlines and People (CoPe) Kutí Hub to address the shared challenge of understanding and predicting these events. This study presents a climatology (1980–2019) of synoptic, mesoscale, and local meteorological characteristics of ARs and heavy precipitation across this region. High‐amplitude upper‐level patterns across the northeastern Pacific Ocean favor ARs reaching Southeast Alaska, where moisture is orographically lifted, resulting in heavy precipitation. In the six communities, ARs occur 8–15 days per month, yet only 6 AR days per year account for up to 68%–91% of precipitation extremes. Furthermore, 80%–96% of days with extreme precipitation have >75th percentile integrated water vapor transport (IVT), demonstrating the strong relationship between IVT and extreme precipitation. This study also highlights the relationship between IVT direction and complex coastal topography in determining precipitation extremes. For example, in Klukwan and Skagway, 80%–90% of extreme AR days have south‐southwesterly or south‐southeasterly IVT. Coastal communities like Yakutat experience higher IVT and precipitation overall, and although southeasterly IVT is more common, extreme precipitation events are most common with southwesterly IVT. Collaboration with the National Weather Service in Juneau, Alaska will lead to improved situational awareness, forecasts, and Impact Decision Support Services to communities, saving lives and property in a region vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.