Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025

A special issue of Symmetry (ISSN 2073-8994). This special issue belongs to the section "Mathematics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2025 | Viewed by 7898

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Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 34, 90123 Palermo, Italy
Interests: difference equations; flow invariance; nonlinear regularity theory; ordinary differential equations; partial differential equations; reduction methods; symmetry operators; weak symmetries
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue is devoted to collecting research works and reviews in all of the fields covered by Mathematics. We aim to receive papers highlighting the latest advances in pure mathematics and applied mathematics, as well as papers providing applications of mathematics in real-life processes; hence, we encourage both scientists in leadership positions and young researchers at the beginning of their careers to contribute. We hope that this Special Issue will provide a suitable platform with which to share new interdisciplinary ideas, to support emerging topics, and to disseminate consolidated theories, hence increasing the level of knowledge and understanding of mathematical research in the scientific community. Particular attention will be given to the refinement of the roles of symmetries and asymmetries.

Dr. Calogero Vetro
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • dynamical systems
  • mathematical physics
  • geometrical and topological methods
  • applied mathematics
  • discrete mathematics and graph theory
  • mathematical analysis

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Published Papers (15 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review

18 pages, 3433 KB  
Article
Mathematical Modelling of Electrode Geometries in Electrostatic Fog Harvesters
by Egils Ginters and Patriks Voldemars Ginters
Symmetry 2025, 17(9), 1578; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17091578 - 21 Sep 2025
Abstract
This paper presents a comparative mathematical analysis of electrode configurations used in active fog water harvesting systems based on electrostatic ionization. The study begins with a brief overview of fog formation and typology. It also addresses the global relevance of fog as a [...] Read more.
This paper presents a comparative mathematical analysis of electrode configurations used in active fog water harvesting systems based on electrostatic ionization. The study begins with a brief overview of fog formation and typology. It also addresses the global relevance of fog as a decentralized water resource. It also outlines the main methods and collector designs currently employed for fog water capture, both passive and active. The core of the work involves solving the Laplace equation for various electrode geometries to compute electrostatic field distributions and analyze field line density patterns as a proxy for potential water collection efficiency. The evaluated configurations include centered rod–cylinder, symmetric parallel multi-rod, and asymmetric wire–plate layouts, with emphasis on identifying spatial regions of high field line convergence. These regions are interpreted as likely trajectories of charged droplets under Coulombic force influence. The modeling approach enables preliminary assessment of design efficiency without relying on time-consuming droplet-level simulations. The results serve as a theoretical foundation prior to the construction of electrode layouts in the portable HygroCatch experimental harvester and provide insight into how field structure correlates with fog water harvesting performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)
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26 pages, 352 KB  
Article
Exact Solutions of Maxwell Vacuum Equations in Petrov Homogeneous Non-Null Spaces
by Valery V. Obukhov
Symmetry 2025, 17(9), 1574; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17091574 - 20 Sep 2025
Viewed by 38
Abstract
The classification of exact solutions of Maxwell vacuum equations for pseudo-Riemannian spaces with spatial symmetry (homogeneous non-null spaces in Petrov) in the presence of electromagnetic fields invariant with respect to the action of the group of space motions is summarized. A new classification [...] Read more.
The classification of exact solutions of Maxwell vacuum equations for pseudo-Riemannian spaces with spatial symmetry (homogeneous non-null spaces in Petrov) in the presence of electromagnetic fields invariant with respect to the action of the group of space motions is summarized. A new classification method is used, common to all homogeneous zero spaces of Petrov. The method is based on the use of canonical reper vectors and on the use of a new approach to the systematization of solutions. The classification results are presented in a form more convenient for further use. Using the previously made refinement of the classification of Petrov spaces, the classification of exact solutions of Maxwell vacuum equations for spaces with the group of motions G3(VIII) is completed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)
13 pages, 556 KB  
Article
Fractal Complexity and Symmetry in Lava Flow Emplacement
by Antonio F. Miguel
Symmetry 2025, 17(9), 1502; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17091502 - 10 Sep 2025
Viewed by 221
Abstract
This study presents a cohesive physical model that predicts lava flow morphology by establishing a quantitative link between a lava’s yield strength and its geometric complexity, measured by a prefractal dimension. The model is founded on the principle of symmetry, where the potential [...] Read more.
This study presents a cohesive physical model that predicts lava flow morphology by establishing a quantitative link between a lava’s yield strength and its geometric complexity, measured by a prefractal dimension. The model is founded on the principle of symmetry, where the potential for fracturing and complexity peaks at an intermediate yield strength. This peak in complexity, observed with a predicted prefractal dimension (Dpf) of 1.15 for terrestrial ‘a’ā-like lava, arises from a critical state where a balance between gravitational driving forces and internal resistance allows for the formation of intricate margins. The model demonstrates that as lavas deviate from this optimal strength, becoming either too fluid (pāhoehoe, Dpf = 1.05) or too rigid (rhyolite, Dpf = 1.07), their morphology becomes progressively simpler, representing a symmetrical decline in complexity. Our approach also incorporates the overriding influence of topographic confinement and the temporal evolution of complexity as the lava cools. Validated against terrestrial lavas and successfully applied to lower-gravity environments, the model predicts a reduction in complexity for similar flows on Mars (Dpf = 1.13) and the Moon (Dpf = 1.09), providing a tool for interpreting volcanic processes grounded in the fundamental principles of symmetry and complexity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)
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14 pages, 284 KB  
Article
Symmetric Analysis of Stability Criteria for Nonlinear Systems with Multi-Delayed Periodic Impulses: Intensity Periodicity and Averaged Delay
by Yao Lu, Dehao Ruan and Quanxin Zhu
Symmetry 2025, 17(9), 1481; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17091481 - 8 Sep 2025
Viewed by 351
Abstract
This paper investigates the pth moment exponential stability of random impulsive delayed nonlinear systems (RIDNS) with multiple periodic delayed impulses. Moreover, the continuous dynamics are described by random delay differential equations whose random disturbances are driven by second-order moment processes. Using the periodic [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the pth moment exponential stability of random impulsive delayed nonlinear systems (RIDNS) with multiple periodic delayed impulses. Moreover, the continuous dynamics are described by random delay differential equations whose random disturbances are driven by second-order moment processes. Using the periodic impulsive intensity (PII), average delay time (ADT), average impulsive delay (AID), as well as the Lyapunov method, we present some pth exponential stability criteria for impulsive random delayed nonlinear systems with multiple delayed impulses. Furthermore, the criterion is unified, which is not only applicable to stable or unstable original systems but also takes into account the coexistence of stabilizing and destabilizing impulses. The periodic structure of impulses and their intensities introduces an intrinsic temporal symmetry, which plays a critical role in determining the stability behavior of the system. This symmetry-based perspective highlights the fundamental impact of regularly recurring impulsive actions on system dynamics. Several illustrated examples are given to verify the effectiveness of our results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)
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11 pages, 250 KB  
Article
The Denseness of the Closure of Some Nyman–Beurling Linear Manifolds Implies the Absence of Zeroes of Certain Combinations of Riemann Zeta-Functions in the Critical Strip
by Sergey K. Sekatskii
Symmetry 2025, 17(9), 1391; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17091391 - 26 Aug 2025
Viewed by 778
Abstract
The famous Nyman–Beurling theorem states that the absence of zeroes in the Riemann zeta-function in the half-plane Res > 1/p, p > 1, is equivalent to the circumstance in which the closure of the linear manifold of the functions [...] Read more.
The famous Nyman–Beurling theorem states that the absence of zeroes in the Riemann zeta-function in the half-plane Res > 1/p, p > 1, is equivalent to the circumstance in which the closure of the linear manifold of the functions f(x)=k=1nαkϑkx, where 0<ϑk1, with the condition k=1nakϑk=0, is dense in Lp(0,1). Here, we show that if the closure of linear manifolds of the same functions but with the conditions k=1nakϑkl=0 with l = 2, 3, 4 is dense in Lp(0,1), then certain combinations of Riemann zeta-functions are free from zeroes in the half-plane Res > 1/p, p > 1—like, e.g., the function g2(s)=2s1ζ(s1)+ζ(s) for l = 2. Similar results for larger integer l can be established. The connections between the Riemann zeta-function, including the question concerning the location of its zeroes, with different symmetry aspects of numerous physical systems are well established, and recently they were highlighted also for supersymmetric quantum mechanics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)
24 pages, 333 KB  
Article
Is Gravity Truly Balanced? A Historical–Critical Journey Through the Equivalence Principle and the Genesis of Spacetime Geometry
by Jaume de Haro and Emilio Elizalde
Symmetry 2025, 17(8), 1340; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17081340 - 16 Aug 2025
Viewed by 560
Abstract
We present a novel derivation of the spacetime metric generated by matter, without invoking Einstein’s field equations. For static sources, the metric arises from a relativistic formulation of D’Alembert’s principle, where the inertial force is treated as a real dynamical entity that exactly [...] Read more.
We present a novel derivation of the spacetime metric generated by matter, without invoking Einstein’s field equations. For static sources, the metric arises from a relativistic formulation of D’Alembert’s principle, where the inertial force is treated as a real dynamical entity that exactly compensates gravity. This leads to a conformastatic metric whose geodesic equation—parametrized by proper time—reproduces the relativistic version of Newton’s second law for free fall. To extend the description to moving matter—uniformly or otherwise—we apply a Lorentz transformation to the static metric. The resulting non-static metric accounts for the motion of the sources and, remarkably, matches the weak-field limit of general relativity as obtained from the linearized Einstein equations in the de Donder (or Lorenz) gauge. This approach—at least at Solar System scales, where gravitational fields are weak—is grounded in a new dynamical interpretation of the Equivalence Principle. It demonstrates how gravity can emerge from the relativistic structure of inertia, without postulating or solving Einstein’s equations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)
24 pages, 1966 KB  
Article
A Hybrid Bayesian Machine Learning Framework for Simultaneous Job Title Classification and Salary Estimation
by Wail Zita, Sami Abou El Faouz, Mohanad Alayedi and Ebrahim E. Elsayed
Symmetry 2025, 17(8), 1261; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17081261 - 7 Aug 2025
Viewed by 703
Abstract
In today’s fast-paced and evolving job market, salary continues to play a critical role in career decision-making. The ability to accurately classify job titles and predict corresponding salary ranges is increasingly vital for organizations seeking to attract and retain top talent. This paper [...] Read more.
In today’s fast-paced and evolving job market, salary continues to play a critical role in career decision-making. The ability to accurately classify job titles and predict corresponding salary ranges is increasingly vital for organizations seeking to attract and retain top talent. This paper proposes a novel approach, the Hybrid Bayesian Model (HBM), which combines Bayesian classification with advanced regression techniques to jointly address job title identification and salary prediction. HBM is designed to capture the inherent complexity and variability of real-world job market data. The model was evaluated against established machine learning (ML) algorithms, including Random Forests (RF), Support Vector Machines (SVM), Decision Trees (DT), and multinomial naïve Bayes classifiers. Experimental results show that HBM outperforms these benchmarks, achieving 99.80% accuracy, 99.85% precision, 100% recall, and an F1 score of 98.8%. These findings highlight the potential of hybrid ML frameworks to improve labor market analytics and support data-driven decision-making in global recruitment strategies. Consequently, the suggested HBM algorithm provides high accuracy and handles the dual tasks of job title classification and salary estimation in a symmetric way. It does this by learning from class structures and mirrored decision limits in feature space. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)
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16 pages, 278 KB  
Article
Maximal Norms of Orthogonal Projections and Closed-Range Operators
by Salma Aljawi, Cristian Conde, Kais Feki and Shigeru Furuichi
Symmetry 2025, 17(7), 1157; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17071157 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 549
Abstract
Using the Dixmier angle between two closed subspaces of a complex Hilbert space H, we establish the necessary and sufficient conditions for the operator norm of the sum of two orthogonal projections, PW1 and PW2, onto closed [...] Read more.
Using the Dixmier angle between two closed subspaces of a complex Hilbert space H, we establish the necessary and sufficient conditions for the operator norm of the sum of two orthogonal projections, PW1 and PW2, onto closed subspaces W1 and W2, to attain its maximum, namely PW1+PW2=2. These conditions are expressed in terms of the geometric relationship and symmetry between the ranges of the projections. We apply these results to orthogonal projections associated with a closed-range operator via its Moore–Penrose inverse. Additionally, for any bounded operator T with closed range in H, we derive sufficient conditions ensuring TT+TT=2, where T denotes the Moore–Penrose inverse of T. This work highlights how symmetry between operator ranges and their algebraic structure governs norm extremality and extends a recent finite-dimensional result to the general Hilbert space setting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)
20 pages, 922 KB  
Article
Distributed Time Delay Models: An Alternative to Fractional Calculus-Based Models for Fractional Behavior Modeling
by Jocelyn Sabatier
Symmetry 2025, 17(7), 1101; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17071101 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 470
Abstract
This paper illustrates that distributed time delay models can exhibit fractional behaviors, addressing the limitations of fractional calculus-based models outlined in the introduction. Given the extensive results generated by these models, they present a compelling alternative to fractional models. The demonstration is done [...] Read more.
This paper illustrates that distributed time delay models can exhibit fractional behaviors, addressing the limitations of fractional calculus-based models outlined in the introduction. Given the extensive results generated by these models, they present a compelling alternative to fractional models. The demonstration is done both in discrete time and in continuous time. The two cases yield fractional behavior within a defined time/frequency range. To conclude and using two examples, the article highlights that modeling fractional behaviors using distributed delay systems allows for coherent physical interpretations, which a fractional model representation struggles to achieve. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)
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25 pages, 2709 KB  
Article
Dynamics of a Modified Lotka–Volterra Commensalism System Incorporating Allee Effect and Symmetric Non-Selective Harvest
by Kan Fang, Yiqin Wang, Fengde Chen and Xiaoying Chen
Symmetry 2025, 17(6), 852; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17060852 - 30 May 2025
Viewed by 680
Abstract
This study investigates a modified Lotka–Volterra commensalism system that incorporates the weak Allee effect in prey and symmetric (equal harvesting effort for both species) non-selective harvesting, addressing a critical gap in ecological modeling. Unlike previous work, we rigorously examine how the interaction between [...] Read more.
This study investigates a modified Lotka–Volterra commensalism system that incorporates the weak Allee effect in prey and symmetric (equal harvesting effort for both species) non-selective harvesting, addressing a critical gap in ecological modeling. Unlike previous work, we rigorously examine how the interaction between the Allee effect and harvesting disrupts system stability, giving rise to novel bifurcation phenomena and population collapse thresholds. Using eigenvalue analysis and the Dulac–Bendixson criterion, we derive sufficient conditions for the existence and stability of equilibria. We find that harvesting destabilizes the system by inducing two saddle-node bifurcations. Notably, prey abundance can increase with greater Allee intensity under controlled harvesting—a rare and counterintuitive ecological outcome. Moreover, exceeding a critical harvesting threshold drives both species to extinction, while controlled harvesting allows sustainable coexistence. Numerical simulations support these analytical findings and identify critical parameter ranges for species coexistence. These results contribute to theoretical ecology and offer insights for designing sustainable harvesting strategies that balance exploitation with conservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)
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15 pages, 277 KB  
Article
Harmonic Functions with Montel’s Normalization
by Jacek Dziok
Symmetry 2025, 17(5), 720; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17050720 - 8 May 2025
Viewed by 258
Abstract
In the Geometric Theory of Analytic Functions, classes of functions with several normalizations are considered. We consider the symmetric idea for harmonic functions. Classes of harmonic functions f with normalization f0=fz¯0=0, [...] Read more.
In the Geometric Theory of Analytic Functions, classes of functions with several normalizations are considered. We consider the symmetric idea for harmonic functions. Classes of harmonic functions f with normalization f0=fz¯0=0,fz0=1 are usually considered in the geometric theory of harmonic functions. The normalization is called the classical normalization. We can obtain some interesting results by using Montel’s normalization f0=fz¯0=0,fzρfz¯ρ=1, where ρ[0,1). In the paper, we consider the class of harmonic functions with Montel’s normalization associated with the generalized hypergeometric function. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)
17 pages, 13197 KB  
Article
Dual Graph Laplacian RPCA Method for Face Recognition Based on Anchor Points
by Shu-Ting Zhuang, Qing-Wen Wang and Jiang-Feng Chen
Symmetry 2025, 17(5), 691; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17050691 - 30 Apr 2025
Viewed by 477
Abstract
High-dimensional data often contain noise and undancy, which can significantly undermine the performance of machine learning. To address this challenge, we propose an advanced robust principal component analysis (RPCA) model that integrates bidirectional graph Laplacian constraints along with the anchor point technique. This [...] Read more.
High-dimensional data often contain noise and undancy, which can significantly undermine the performance of machine learning. To address this challenge, we propose an advanced robust principal component analysis (RPCA) model that integrates bidirectional graph Laplacian constraints along with the anchor point technique. This approach constructs two graphs from both the sample and feature perspectives for a more comprehensive capture of the underlying data structure. Moreover, the anchor point technique serves to substantially reduce computational complexity, making the model more efficient and scalable. Comprehensive evaluations on both GTdatabase and VGG Face2 dataset confirm that anchor-based methods maintain competitive accuracy with standard graph Laplacian approaches (within 0.5–2.0% difference) while achieving significant computational speedups of 5.7–27.1% and 12.9–14.6% respectively. The consistent performance across datasets, from controlled laboratory conditions to challenging real-world scenarios, demonstrates the robustness and scalability of the proposed anchor technique. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)
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15 pages, 335 KB  
Article
On the Secant Non-Defectivity of Integral Hypersurfaces of Projective Spaces of at Most Five Dimensions
by Edoardo Ballico
Symmetry 2025, 17(3), 454; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17030454 - 18 Mar 2025
Viewed by 265
Abstract
Let XPn, where 3n5, be an irreducible hypersurface of degree d2. Fix an integer t3. If n=5, assume t4 and [...] Read more.
Let XPn, where 3n5, be an irreducible hypersurface of degree d2. Fix an integer t3. If n=5, assume t4 and (t,d)(4,2). Using the Differential Horace Lemma, we prove that OX(t) is not secant defective. For a fixed X, our proof uses induction on the integer t. The key points of our method are that for a fixed X, we only need the case of general linear hyperplane sections of X in lower-dimension projective spaces and that we do not use induction on d, allowing an interested reader to tackle a specific X for n>5. We discuss (as open questions) possible extensions of some weaker forms of the theorem to the case where n>5. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)

Review

Jump to: Research

85 pages, 939 KB  
Review
An Overview of Methods for Solving the System of Equations A1XB1 = C1 and A2XB2 = C2
by Qing-Wen Wang, Zi-Han Gao and Yu-Fei Li
Symmetry 2025, 17(8), 1307; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17081307 - 12 Aug 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 344
Abstract
This paper primarily investigates the solutions to the system of equations A1XB1=C1 and A2XB2=C2. This system generalizes the classical equation AXB=C, as well [...] Read more.
This paper primarily investigates the solutions to the system of equations A1XB1=C1 and A2XB2=C2. This system generalizes the classical equation AXB=C, as well as the system of equations AX=B and XC=D, and finds broad applications in control theory, signal processing, networking, optimization, and other related fields. Various methods for solving this system are introduced, including the generalized inverse method, the vec-operator method, matrix decomposition techniques, Cramer’s rule, and iterative algorithms. Based on these approaches, the paper discusses general solutions, symmetric solutions, Hermitian solutions, and other special types of solutions over different algebraic structures, such as number fields, the real field, the complex field, the quaternion division ring, principal ideal domains, regular rings, strongly *-reducible rings, and operators on Banach spaces. In addition, matrix systems related to the system A1XB1=C1 and A2XB2=C2 are also explored. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)
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81 pages, 2075 KB  
Review
A Comprehensive Review on Solving the System of Equations AX = C and XB = D
by Qing-Wen Wang, Zi-Han Gao and Jia-Le Gao
Symmetry 2025, 17(4), 625; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17040625 - 21 Apr 2025
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 647
Abstract
This survey provides a review of the theoretical research on the classic system of matrix equations AX=C and XB=D, which has wide-ranging applications across fields such as control theory, optimization, image processing, and robotics. The paper [...] Read more.
This survey provides a review of the theoretical research on the classic system of matrix equations AX=C and XB=D, which has wide-ranging applications across fields such as control theory, optimization, image processing, and robotics. The paper discusses various solution methods for the system, focusing on specialized approaches, including generalized inverse methods, matrix decomposition techniques, and solutions in the forms of Hermitian, extreme rank, reflexive, and conjugate solutions. Additionally, specialized solving methods for specific algebraic structures, such as Hilbert spaces, Hilbert C-modules, and quaternions, are presented. The paper explores the existence conditions and explicit expressions for these solutions, along with examples of their application in color images. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematics: Feature Papers 2025)
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