bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mill’s harm principle, rationality, and Pareto optimality in games
Authors: Hargreaves Heap Shaun , Ismail Mehmet S.
Published: February 2025

Mill’s classic argument for liberty requires that people’s exercise of freedom should be governed by the harm principle (MHP): that is, an action should not harm another. In this paper, we develop the concept of a Millian harm equilibrium (MHE) in n-person games where players maximize utility subject to the constraint of an MHP. Our main result is in the spirit of the fundamental theorems of welfare economics. We show that for every initial ‘reference point’ in a game the associated MHE is Pareto efficient and, conversely, every Pareto efficient point can be supported as an MHE for some initial reference point. This is an important result for an old question in political philosophy over whether the exercise of liberty is consistent with order in society and for how we think about policy in a non-ideal world.
The senolytic ABT-263 improves cognitive functions in middle-aged male, but not female, atherosclerotic LDLr−/−;hApoB100+/+ mice
Authors: Lambert Mélanie , Miquel Géraldine , Villeneuve Louis , Thorin-Trescases Nathalie , Thorin Eric
Published: February 2025

Accumulation of cerebral senescent cells may compromise the continuum between vascular and neuronal function, leading to damage and cognitive decline. Elimination of senescent cells might therefore preserve vascular and neuronal functions. To test this hypothesis, we used male and female atherosclerotic LDLr−/−;hApoB100
+/+ mice (ATX-mice), a model of vascular cognitive impairment (VCI), treated with the senolytic ABT-263 for 3 months (3- to 6-month or 9- to 12-month old). In young male ATX mice, prevention with ABT-263 improved spatial retention memory, in association with a higher endothelial sensitivity to shear stress and a higher hippocampal CD31+ endothelial cell density, lower activation of both astrocytes and glial cells. In young females, ABT-263 tended to improve delayed memory; however, atherosclerotic plaque was magnified by ABT-263, endothelial function was unaffected, hippocampal astrocyte activation increased and expression of CD31+ cells decreased. Hence, unlike in males, ABT-263 appears deleterious in young ATX females. In middle-aged males, the curative treatment improved the learning process and memory. Although no change in endothelial function was observed, the benefits of ABT-263 were associated with a decreased expression of several inflammaging markers, a higher density of CD31+ cells and a lower activation of glial cells. In middle-aged females, ABT-263 induced a surge of inflammaging markers, associated with a slower learning process. Altogether, our data demonstrate that ABT-263 differentially affects VCI, improving cognition in male while being deleterious in female ATX mice. More studies are needed to understand the mechanisms at the basis of the sexual dimorphic effects of the senolytic ABT-263.
Demenzsensible Kunstvermittlung in Museen – Konzeption und Evaluation einer Schulung im Projekt Erinnerungs_reich
Authors: Rettich Annika , Bothur Martina , Petermann Jenny , Schall Arthur , Wächter Michael , Voigt Karen
Published: February 2025

Hintergrund

Neben primär demenzspezifischen Symptomen sind viele Menschen mit Demenz zusätzlich durch soziale Isolation belastet. Um die soziale und kulturelle Teilhabe dieser vulnerablen Bevölkerungsgruppe im Museumssetting zu steigern, hat das Projekt Erinnerungs_reich – Museen als Medizin für Menschen mit Demenz Multiplikatorenschulungen mit Train-the-Trainer-Ansatz entwickelt, durchgeführt und evaluiert, um die teilnehmenden Kunstvermittler:innen zur Durchführung demenzsensibler Museumsangebote zu befähigen. Wie zufrieden waren die Kunstvermittler:innen mit den Schulungen und welche Änderungen wurden vorgenommen, um die Schulungen passfähiger zu gestalten?

Methode

Die vier Schulungen fanden im Frühjahr/Sommer 2023 in Dresden, Görlitz, Freiberg und Leipzig statt. Abschließend konnten die Schulungsteilnehmenden im Rahmen einer begleitenden formativen Evaluation verschiedene Schulungsaspekte auf einer sechsstufigen Likert-Skala von sehr zufrieden bis sehr unzufrieden sowie im Freitextformat bewerten.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt nahmen 51 Kunstvermittler:innen aus 33 Museen an den Schulungen teil (75 % weiblich, M = 41,1 Jahre). Die Bewertungen zeigten mehrheitlich einen starken Zuspruch: 74 % der Evaluationsteilnehmenden waren mit den Schulungen insgesamt sehr zufrieden. Durch die Evaluation nach der ersten der vier Schulungen ließen sich die Möglichkeit zum kollegialen Austausch und der Praxisanteil als vergleichsweise verbesserungswürdig identifizieren. Durch gezielte Anpassungen für die darauf folgenden Schulungen konnte eine verbesserte Bewertung dieser Aspekte erreicht werden.

Diskussion

Die Multiplikatorenschulungen bieten durch das Train-the-Trainer-Prinzip und die praxisnahe, zielgruppenangepasste Gestaltung einen Ansatz, um Kunstvermittler:innen nachhaltig für die besonderen Bedürfnisse von Demenzbetroffenen zu sensibilisieren und zur Durchführung demenzsensibler Museumsangebote zu befähigen. Die hohe Nachfrage und die positiven Bewertungen verdeutlichen das Interesse und den Bedarf an demenzsensiblen Schulungsangeboten – in kulturellen Bereichen und darüber hinaus.
Analysis of the t′ + c Phase Content from ZrO2-16 Mol.% Y2O3-16 Mol.% Ta2O5 Mechanoactivated Powder Mixtures in Coatings Deposited by Suspension Plasma Spraying
Authors: Galeano-Camacho Catalina , Bedoya-Trujillo Iván , Pérez Sebastián , Ageorges Hélène , Muñoz-Saldaña Juan
Published: February 2025

Gas turbines or power generation engines used in transportation, defense, and energy sectors use thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) to protect metallic components exposed to high-temperature conditions. This work focuses on the in situ synthesis during coating deposition by suspension plasma spraying (SPS) from powders mechanoactivated by high-energy ball milling of ZrO2-16 mol.% YO1.5-16 mol.% TaO2.5 (16YTZ) for applications in TBCs. This composition is expected to present a non-transformable tetragonal phase (t′ phase), suitable to overcome the thermodynamic limits of the mostly used conventional 6-8 wt.% yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ). The 16YTZ powder mixtures were mechanoactivated by either planetary ball milling (240 RPM) and high-energy ball milling (1700 RPM). These mechanoactivated powders were used to obtain densified samples through sintering at 1500 °C for 2 and 20 h, as well as to deposit coatings by SPS at a stand-off distance between 60 and 80 mm using Ar/He as the plasma forming gas. The ceramics and coatings were characterized by XRD, SEM, and Raman spectroscopy. The densified ceramics showed a high t′ phase content, i.e., > 98% of the 16YTZ system, with an average tetragonality of 1.0267. Coatings deposited at a stand-off distance of 60 mm, and a deposition rate of 33 µm/min, present a porosity of less than 5%, and a tetragonality of 1.0187, which is higher than that of standard YSZ coatings. Phase quantification by Rietveld refinement revealed a multiphase condition as result of the heat transfer in the plasma plume leading to in situ synthesis of the ZrO2 base solid solutions, formed by 89.2 wt.% of t′ + c phases (48.4 and 40.8 wt.% of t′ and c-ZrO2, respectively) 8.1% monoclinic ZrO2, 2.4% cubic Y2O3 and 0.4% orthorhombic Ta2O5 on average. Achieving a high percentage of t' + c phases in the coating with a porosity of less than 5% is a significant accomplishment. This success is closely linked to the fact that tetragonality exceeds that of YSZ. These results provide a solid foundation for future experimental designs aimed at optimizing spray parameters.
Effectiveness of Adjuvant Semaglutide Following Bariatric Metabolic Surgery
Authors: Ferguson Jorgen , Fisher Oliver , Talbot Michael , Rigas Georgia
Published: February 2025

Background

Obesity is a relapsing condition and response to anti-obesity therapies appears to be normally distributed. Therefore, some patients undergoing metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) will demonstrate a partial response to therapy. When prescribing therapies to patients living with obesity (PwO) the median total weight loss (TWL) gives a good indication of the likely utility of prescription for that individual. GLP-1 agonists (GLP1a) offer patients a reasonable prospect of clinically significant weight loss even if they have been previously treated with MBS.

Methods

A retrospective review of prospectively collected data in a single bariatric clinic was performed. Patients with insufficient weight loss at any time point were offered semaglutide therapy with doses titrated depending on response to treatment, tolerability, availability and affordability. Duration of therapy, highest dose tolerated, anthropometric measures and reported side effects were recorded. Reasons for discontinuation were noted where possible; however, discontinuation due to medication unavailability was not reliably captured in the dataset.

Results

The median dose tolerated was 1 mg s/c per week, and 78% tolerated ≤ 1 mg as the maximum achieved dose. The median TWL was 7.5% and side effects were uncommon. Most patients took therapy for > 6 months, but continued therapy > 1 year was uncommon.

Conclusion

Overall ‘real-world’ utility of semaglutide after MBS may potentially be hampered by supply and cost issues more than issues associated with effectiveness or side effect profile.
God’s Kenotic Love-Power – a Defense of Relational Theology and the Vulnerability in Love
Authors: Langby Lina
Published: February 2025

This article presupposes that God should, first and foremost, be understood as essentially loving. From this, this article constructively proposes divine power as kenotic love-power for the Other and shows how this is coherent with different forms of theism. Such love-power always promotes the well-being of the Self-Other in a mutually loving relationship without connotations of self-negation or self-humiliation often associated with kenosis. If love is primary, theists should seek relational theology where God and creation relate to each other and affect each other. Panentheism is one example of relational theology, and so is open theism. Pantheism, on the other hand, is incoherent with the suggested notion of relational kenotic love-power. Several theologians argue that God necessarily loves the world and that God’s love is kenotic. However, kenosis is connected to ideas of self-negation and emptying of the self. From a feminist perspective, this is problematic. This article constructively puts forward an understanding of kenotic love-power that takes this feminist critique seriously and suggests that divine loving power should be understood not as self-limitation or self-abnegation but as self-realization through love and acceptance of that which is Other. It suggests a necessary Self-Other relationship because, without the Self, the Other cannot be. If that were so, there could not be a relationship at all. This model suits panentheists, process-panentheists, and open theists but not pantheists.
Particulate Organic Carbon Scarcity Exacerbates Vulnerability of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Ecosystem
Authors: Mathers Madison A. , Bergamaschi Brian A. , Hernes Peter J.
Published: February 2025

Anthropogenic climate change on local to global scales has transformed the cycling of particulate organic carbon (POC) in river deltas. Understanding the biogeochemical processing of POC across deltas is key to developing a predictive framework for disruptions in carbon cycling within vulnerable ecosystems. This study examined the spatial and temporal variations in POC, particulate nitrogen (PN), and total suspended sediments (TSS) concentrations across the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta (Delta) over three water years (2021–2023), covering drought-like conditions observed in spring, summer, and fall. Comprehensive Delta-wide surveys were conducted, employing a mass balance model to estimate total POC flux and constrain POC influx/efflux. Limited seasonal variability in POC and PN concentrations reflected a constrained particle supply under hydrologic conditions increasingly representative of the Delta’s future. Results revealed an 81% decrease in annual total suspended sediment concentration inputs to the Sacramento River from the 1957 water year compared to the average of 2021–2022, with levels during the study period much lower than previous decades. POC influx ranged from 39 to 79% of total efflux during spring to fall of low water years, with 8 to 37% of daily POC flux diverted to southern water pumping stations, limiting opportunities for particle deposition and internal production within the Delta. This was reflected in average Delta POC concentrations: 0.77 mg/L (2021), 0.54 mg/L (2022), and 0.42 mg/L (2023). The sustained reduction in sediment and POC levels in the Delta, driven by human activities, hinders wetland accretion, carbon sequestration, and overall ecosystem stability.
How do genome abnormalities impact mitochondrial homeostasis?
Authors: Kurpa Olha , Amponsah Prince Saforo
Published: February 2025

The genome of eukaryotes encodes thousands of proteins needed to ensure cell health. Hence, an imbalance in the genome has profound consequences for protein homeostasis (proteostasis). The genome and proteome are interlocked in a mutual relationship, which impacts the functions of cellular organelles like mitochondria. However, the underlying mechanisms remain an enigma. Here, we highlight this relationship and outline some open questions to be addressed.
Towards a Data-Driven Organisation: Making Data a Strategic Knowledge Asset in SMEs
Authors: Kling Nico , Haugk Sebastian , Gebauer Heiko
Published: February 2025

Demographic shifts in organisations create an urgent knowledge management challenge: as experienced employees retire, their specialised knowledge must transfer to younger workers. This transition drives small- and medium-sized enterprises (SME) to move from intuitive to data-driven decision-making. We examine how SMEs can leverage data as a strategic knowledge asset during this transformation. Drawing from knowledge-based theory and analysing insights from 200 companies, we develop a practical framework for SMEs’ data-driven evolution. Our research identifies three critical transformation phases: recognising data’s value, building data capabilities, and integrating data into knowledge management. We derive six actionable principles that help SMEs balance structure with adaptability: (1) identifying data’s strategic potential, (2) managing data as a core resource, (3) developing specialised talent, (4) creating efficient coordination mechanisms, (5) nurturing emergent strategies, and (6) implementing flexible data strategies. These principles offer SME managers practical guidance while contributing to academic understanding of data-driven organisations. Our framework particularly helps resource-constrained SMEs navigate their data transformation journey efficiently. Future research should validate these principles quantitatively across different knowledge-intensive sectors.
Endometrial factors and pregnancy loss frequency in recurrent pregnancy loss patients: comparing RT-PCR microbiology, microbial cultures, and immunohistochemistry of endometrium biopsy
Authors: Klimaszyk K. , Wirstlein P. , Bednarek-Rajewska K. , Jankowski M. , Svarre Nielsen H. , Wender Ożegowska E. , Kędzia M.
Published: February 2025

The objective of this study is to investigate the presence of bacteria in endometrial samples from patients with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and explore potential correlations between bacterial presence, chronic endometritis, and previous pregnancy loss history. Endometrial samples from 90 RPL patients were analysed using RT-PCR to detect 10 specific bacterial species. A subgroup of 65 patients underwent additional microbial culture and immunohistochemistry for plasma cell identification. Correlations between bacterial presence, chronic endometritis, and the number of previous pregnancy losses were evaluated. We detected at least one out of 10 chosen bacteria DNA by RT-PCR in 24.4% (22/90) of endometrial samples. Patients with PCR-identified bacteria had a significantly higher number of previous pregnancy losses (median 3 vs 2, p = 0.01). No correlation was observed between bacterial presence and chronic endometritis diagnosis. A significant correlation was found between bacterial detection by PCR and microbial culture (p = 0.03), though culture methods detected fewer positive cases. In RPL patients, detecting DNA from at least one of 10 selected bacterial species by RT-PCR correlates with a higher number of previous pregnancy losses. However, this bacterial presence does not correlate with chronic endometritis diagnosis based on the CD138 immunohistochemistry-identified plasma cell count. These findings suggest a potential role of endometrial bacteria in RPL that may be independent of the classical inflammatory response associated with chronic endometritis.
Anesthetic Considerations for Orthopedic Amputation Surgery
Authors: Howard Abigail , Kolodzie Kerstin
Published: February 2025

Purpose of Review

This review summarizes the anesthetic considerations for amputation for orthopedic indications including trauma, malignancy, infection, or congenital anomalies. Much of the literature has previously focused on amputation for vascular disease.

Recent Findings

Neuraxial anesthesia and peripheral nerve blocks are the most promising modalities to decrease perioperative pain, though it is unclear if they prevent long-term phantom limb pain (PLP). Treatments for PLP aim to disrupt the abnormal signaling along the peripheral and central pathways, including through medications, peripheral nerve stimulators, and surgical therapies.

Perioperative management of orthopedic amputation patients should involve a multidisciplinary team that focuses on improved pain management, early rehabilitation, and improved patient satisfaction. Additional research is needed to determine the optimal regional anesthesia technique and evaluate its effect on perioperative outcomes.
Theories of institutional change and marine privatisation
Authors: Schlüter Achim , van Assche Kristof , Fall Sidy , Senghor Khadidiatou , Banikoi Hudu , Kane Elimane
Published: February 2025

Privatisation, as a process that assigns more individual property rights, implies in most cases institutional change. Privatisation might occur on the level of society, when formal laws, but often also informal rules are changing, or it might take place on an organisational level when an asset under an open access regime, a cooperative, or a state-owned company is converted into a privately managed entity. From this perspective, it seems obvious that theories of institutional change provide a certain understanding of privatisation processes in the marine realm. Processes of marine privatisation are very heterogeneous in their characteristics: some processes are informal, some take part in the business world, others in the political realm, some are to a certain degree planned, others are emerging and have more evolutionary characteristics, some are characterised by huge power asymmetries others take place under more equal footing. Therefore, this paper interrogates a broad range of theories of institutional change. Our perspective does not proclaim or investigate superiority of one theory above the other, but rather inquires about fit. After elaborating on the theories, clarifying their focus, core concepts and assumptions, the paper illustrates the explanatory powers of the theories by looking at the case of privatisation of space in Saint Louis, Senegal. Due to strong restrictions for Senegalese fishers to fish in Mauritanian waters, the establishment of a marine protected area, and more recently the establishment of a gas field on the doorstep, fishers are confronted with an enclosure of their commons.
Discussion: Utilizing Waste‑Shredded Rubber Pieces for Improved Foundation Stability [Transp. Infrastruct. Geotech. 11(6), 3941–3968]
Authors: Soltani Amin , O’Kelly Brendan C.
Published: February 2025

This communication article presents a discussion of various identified shortcomings in the original research paper by Thapa et al. (the Authors) that was recently published in Transp. Infrastruct. Geotech. 11(6), 3941–3968, 2024. The Authors investigated the application of waste shredded rubber pieces (SRPs) for improving the performance of shallow foundations bearing on a problematic collapsible soil obtained from the Western Uttar Pradesh region of India. They performed laboratory experiments, including Atterberg (consistency) limits, compaction, unconfined compressive strength and undrained direct-shear tests, on the unamended soil (i.e., 0% SRP content) and five soil–SRP blends prepared with gravimetric SRP contents ranging from 1% to 5%. Moreover, the Authors employed finite-element method (FEM) modeling to assess the effects of SRP content on the ultimate bearing capacity (B) and settlement (S) response of an infinite strip footing bearing on the investigated compacted soil–SRP blends. Using the results obtained from the six FEM simulations, the Authors then produced multiple linear regression (MLR) models for predicting the FEM-generated B and S values of the compacted soil amended with 0–5% SRP additive. In this communication article, the Discussers raise several shortcomings of the Authors’ research, including (i) the presented Atterberg limits results are fundamentally compromised by the inclusion of the coarse SRP additive in the test material, and (ii) the validity and applicability of their proposed MLR models for predicting the B and S responses of shallow footings bearing on the SRP-amended soil.
Quantitative Steinitz theorem: a spherical version
Authors: Ivanov Grigory , Naszódi Márton
Published: February 2025

Steinitz’s theorem states that if the origin belongs to the interior of the convex hull of a set

$$Q \subset {\mathbb {R}}^d,$$

Q
⊂

R

d

,

then there are at most 2d points

$$Q^\prime $$

Q
′

of Q whose convex hull contains the origin in the interior. Bárány, Katchalski and Pach gave a quantitative version, whereby the radius of the ball contained in the convex hull of

$$Q^\prime $$

Q
′

is bounded from below. In the present note, we show that a Euclidean result of this kind implies a corresponding spherical version.
Earth recharge model with crossover behaviors: application of piecewise differentiation
Authors: Tloliso Nape , Atangana Abdon
Published: February 2025

The estimation of groundwater recharge is usually done with direct or indirect measurement techniques that are site-specific and derived primarily from flux measurements that due to the flexibility and uncertainty associated with heterogeneous systems has a high margin of error. Fractional derivatives, which are used to reflect the geological heterogeneity and fluid viscoelasticity, may be introduced to solve this challenge. Here, we develop sensitivity analyses to model groundwater recharge in a two-layer (homogeneous upper and highly heterogeneous lower) shallow unconfined aquifer system. The bottom of the model showed a non-Darcian fracture and matrix flow, and associated flow deviation, while the top of the model represented a uniform high-permeability and high-porosity layer, typical for calcite-rich areas. The EARTH model is the governing equation of the system, analytically solved through the use of Laplace and inverse Laplace transforms. A new multi-layer aquifer model for the spatial-parameter, temporal-parameter groundwater flow model established in Earthlab. The model features later flow, gradual layer transitions and appropritate boundary conditions. It also considers evapotranspiration and seasonal recharge, providing a better model for groundwater behavior in heterogeneous aquifer systems. A fractional-order differential equation is proposed to describe recharge dynamics for the homogeneous upper layer and a classical integer-order differential equation for the heterogeneous lower layer with non-Darcy flow. This work applies Caputo and Atangana-Baleanu fractional derivatives to investigate crossover behaviors in the system. The results show unique long-tail exponential growth structures in the homogeneous layer and crossover behaviors at early times that depend on the operator. In contrast, despite the scale invariance property of the Caputo derivative, the Atangana-Baleanu derivative detects alpha-to-alpha crossovers, stressing its ability to reproduce early-time behavior. This study presents a powerful solution for describing groundwater recharge in dual-layered aquifer systems by coupling a fractional differentiation model with the extended Mittag–Leffler law, providing a new insight into understanding heterogeneous and homogeneous formations. This approach may be cross-validated with field data and will provide more evidence for capillary-dominated flow, using fractional derivatives to model subsurface flow.
The Cognitive System of Robots Based on Deep Learning with Stable Convergence
Authors: Hsu Min-Jie , Hsu Chen-Chien , Chien Yi-Hsing , Wang Wei-Yen
Published: February 2025

With the advance of deep learning, improving the understanding and cognition of artificial intelligence (AI) systems has become an increasingly crucial research trend. Although most AI studies have focused on improving the efficiency and reach of deep learning technologies for the next wave of nascent AI solutions, they have also highlighted the real-world challenges and limitations of current deep learning approaches. In view of this, this paper proposes a novel cognitive system based on deep learning. To mathematically analyze and solve the critical problem of unstable convergence existing in general cognitive systems, we propose a system framework consisting of three models: a perception model, a hypothesis model, and a memory model. In contrast to conventional reinforcement learning systems, the online learning of our proposed cognitive system can be carried out by only comparing the current outputs with the expected inputs. Then, the memory model (as an evaluation model) can estimate the learning results more accurately so that the hypothesis model is capable of generating improved hypotheses. The contribution of our method is to refer to the memory theory in cognitive psychology to improve the stability of the image-to-robot motor end-to-end learning system. Moreover, an auto-encoder, as the perception model, can encode an observed image into a perception code as the features to easily find an optimal solution. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed cognitive system, Chinese calligraphy writing tasks are used to evaluate its performance. Experimental results show that the proposed cognitive system significantly enhances the online learning process with stable convergence and improves the writing performance of the calligraphy work.
Enhancing Thermal Stability and High-Temperature Properties of Foundry Al Alloys through Zr and/or Er as Minor Alloying Elements
Authors: Gariboldi Elisabetta , Sharma Ashok
Published: February 2025

When designing structural parts made from foundry alloys for use at relatively high temperatures, it can be challenging to choose the “best” alloy or “best heat treatment” for a specific application. This is particularly true for age-hardenable Al–Si-based alloys. Many studies have focused on the role of minor elements in modifying silicon, the presence of second phases, precipitate formation, and how these factors affect the alloy’s mechanical properties. Analyzing microstructural changes during heat treatment can help us understand how the microstructure and properties evolve during high-temperature service. Based on this, the high-temperature stability at 400 °C of cast Al to which Zr and/or Er have been added is presented and discussed in the first part of the paper. The second part the paper focuses on the case of Zr and/or Er addition to an age-hardenable casting alloy of more complex composition: AlSi7Mg (A356 alloy). The role of these two elements during solidification, heat treatments and simulated service conditions was analyzed. Si modification by Er and grain refinement by Zr, the formation of additional intermetallic phases that reduced ductility and aging potential, the possible formation of intragranular particles during solution treatment at conventional temperatures for A356 alloy. The aim of the work is to point out the need to optimize the heat treatment process of as-cast parts to enhance the high-temperature performance age-hardenable Al alloys, considering the expected service conditions.
Computing Euler factors of genus 2 curves at odd primes of almost good reduction
Authors: Maistret Céline , Sutherland Andrew V.
Published: February 2025

We present an efficient algorithm to compute the Euler factor of a genus 2 curve

$$C/\mathbb {Q}$$

C
/
Q

at an odd prime p that is of bad reduction for C but of good reduction for the Jacobian of C (a prime of “almost good” reduction). Our approach is based on the theory of cluster pictures introduced by Dokchitser, Dokchitser, Maistret, and Morgan, which allows us to reduce the problem to a short, explicit computation over

$$\mathbb {Z}$$

Z

and

$$\mathbb {F}_p$$

F
p

, followed by a point-counting computation on two elliptic curves over

$$\mathbb {F}_p$$

F
p

, or a single elliptic curve over

$$\mathbb {F}_{p^2}$$

F

p
2

. A key feature of our approach is that we avoid the need to compute a regular model for C. This allows us to efficiently compute many examples that are infeasible to handle using the algorithms currently available in computer algebra systems such as Magma and Pari/GP.
A semi-transparent strong biomimetic wound healing material: zinc oxide and sodium alginate based bi-layer nanofiber membrane
Authors: Kuddushi Muzammil , Kumar Tanay , Wu Hongyan , Chen Sherry , Bin Xu Ben , Malek Naved , Unsworth Larry , Xu Jiangtao , Zhang Jiangwen , Wang Xihua , Zhang Xuehua
Published: February 2025

Wound healing is a critical process that significantly impacts patient health and places a substantial burden on healthcare systems. This study aimed to develop and evaluate transparent composite nanofibrous membranes with enhanced biological functionality as advanced wound dressing materials. We hypothesized that the incorporation of sodium alginate (NaAlg) or zinc oxide (ZnO) into electrospun polymer nanofibers, combined with the use of a conductive aluminum mesh during fiber collection, would result in membranes with locally aligned nanofibers, enabling optical transparency, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties. By using a 1.58 mm aluminum square mesh as a fiber collector during electrospinning of polycaprolactone (PCL)/ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), we fabricated composite fiber membranes with varying concentrations of NaAlg (1–5% w/v) or ZnO (1–3% w/v). The use of the conductive mesh led to partial alignment of the nanofibers, enhancing light transmission and achieving notable optical transparency (up to  40% for NaAlg and  22% for ZnO). These membranes also exhibited a bi-layer structural configuration, robust mechanical properties (12–13 MPa), and optimal water vapor transmission rates (WVTR,  1400–1700 g/m

$$^{2}$$

2

/day). Biological assessments, including disc diffusion and cytotoxicity tests, demonstrated excellent biocompatibility (85–100% viability with HaCaT cells) and promising blood-clotting properties. These findings suggest that the developed nanofiber membranes, through their unique alignment-driven transparency and multifunctionality, can effectively monitor wound healing in real-time, absorb substantial exudate, and provide a protective barrier against environmental contaminants. This work highlights the novelty and potential of these nanofiber membranes as advanced biomaterials for diverse wound dressing applications.

Graphical abstract
Unmasking deepfakes: a multidisciplinary examination of social impacts and regulatory responses
Authors: Alanazi Sami , Asif Seemal , Caird-daley Antoinette , Moulitsas Irene
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of deepfake technology and its multifaceted impacts on society, privacy, trust, and information integrity. Deepfakes, synthetic media generated using AI-powered algorithms, pose significant challenges to individual privacy, societal trust, and the integrity of information. To explore these issues, we employed a mixed-methods approach that included in-depth expert interviews with professionals from diverse fields such as law, ethics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and social sciences, along with a dichotomous question survey, which provided comprehensive insights from multiple perspectives. This methodological approach facilitated a multidimensional perspective on the potential risks and benefits of deepfakes. Our findings reveal unanimous concern among experts regarding the profound societal implications of deepfakes, particularly their capacity to amplify disinformation, erode public trust, and inflict psychological harm on individuals. Key themes identified include the urgent need for robust regulatory frameworks, the critical role of media literacy in enhancing public resilience, and the varying impacts of deepfakes across different demographic groups. The consensus among experts points out the necessity for an ethically guided approach to the development and deployment of deepfake technology, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in crafting effective policy responses. This study advances the ongoing discourse on deepfake technology by providing stakeholders and policymakers with evidence-based recommendations aimed at mitigating the associated risks and harnessing potential benefits. These recommendations promote a balanced and informed approach to navigating the complexities of this emerging technological challenge.
Community-Based Surveillance of Acute Flaccid Paralysis: A Review on Detection and Reporting Strategy
Authors: Biru Gelane , Gemechu Honey , Gebremeskel Eyerusalem , Nemomssa Hundessa Daba , Dese Kokeb , Wakjira Efrem , Demlew Gashaw , Yohannes Dessalew , Abdi Ketema Lemma , Murad Hamdia , Zewde Elbetel Taye , Habtamu Bontu , Tefera Mesfin , Alayu Mikias , Gidi Netsanet Workneh , Bisrat Filimona , Tadesse Tenager , Kidanne Legesse , Choe Se-woon , Kong Jude , Ayana Gelan
Published: February 2025

Polio is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects children under 15, often leading to permanent paralysis, known as acute flaccid paralysis (AFP). AFP surveillance is essential for the eradication of polio, with community-based surveillance (CBS) playing a pivotal role in detecting and reporting cases. CBS improves the timeliness and accuracy of AFP detection, but challenges such as underreporting, delays, and low community awareness persist. Strategies involving use of mobile applications, awareness campaigns, and improvements in healthcare infrastructure were implemented to improve CBS of AFP. While numerous case studies from various countries illustrate the implementation of CBS, a comprehensive synthesis of these studies across diverse contexts is limited. This paper examines state-of-the-art CBS approaches for AFP, analyzing progress, challenges, and potential solutions. A targeted literature review of English-language studies published between 2004 and 2024 was conducted, focusing on the roles of communities, technological integration, and practical recommendations, while excluding studies that lacked methodological rigor or direct relevance. The review revealed that CBS has significantly advanced the global fight against polio by increasing community awareness, enabling earlier detection, and improving the reporting of AFP cases. However, issues such as security concerns, delayed reporting, low levels of community awareness, and underutilization of technology persist. This review recommends strengthening organizational structures, improving healthcare access, raising community awareness, and using technology for more efficient AFP surveillance. The implication of this work is beyond polio as it offers a comprehensive framework for integrating disease surveillance, technology and community involvement to strengthen public health strategies and build robust health systems.
Central Asia - Russia's Near Abroad or Crossroads of Asia?
Authors: Pomfret Richard
Published: February 2025

This Element assesses the claim that Central Asian countries hold a special position as Russia's near abroad. The region has been important for millennia, and only after conquest in the second half of the nineteenth century did Russia become important for Central Asia. This connection became stronger after 1917 as Central Asia was integrated into the Soviet economy, with rail, roads, and pipelines all leading north to Russia. After independence, these connections were gradually modified by new trade links and by new infrastructure, while Russia's demand for unskilled labour during the 1999–2014 oil boom created a new economic dependency for Tajikistan and the Kyrgyz Republic. In 1991, political independence could not be accompanied by economic independence, but over the next three decades economic dependence on Russia was reduced, and the Central Asian countries have felt increasingly able to adopt political positions independent of Russia.
The League of Nations
Authors: Maiolo Joseph , Robson Laura
Published: February 2025

The Element challenges histories of the League of Nations that present it as a meaningful if flawed experiment in global governance. Such accounts have largely failed to admit its overriding purpose: not to work towards international cooperation among equally sovereign states, but to claim control over the globe's resources, weapons, and populations for its main showrunners (including the United States) – and not through the gentle arts of persuasion and negotiation but through the direct and indirect use of force and the monopolisation of global military and economic power. The League's advocates framed its innovations, from refugee aid to disarmament, as manifestations of its commitment to an obvious universal good and, often, as a series of technocratic, scientific solutions to the problems of global disorder. But its practices shored up the dominance of the western victors and preserved longstanding structures of international power and civilizational-racial hierarchy. This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.
Seamus Heaney and Catholicism
Authors: Wade Gary
Published: February 2025

Seamus Heaney and Catholicism makes extensive use of unpublished material to offer fresh insights into Heaney's complex engagement with Catholicism. Gary Wade explores how Catholicism operates in ways other than social and political, which have largely been the focus of critics up until now. Using extensive unpublished material, including early drafts of some familiar poems, it offers close readings which explore how Catholicism operates at the level of feeling, and how it continued to have an emotional purchase on Heaney long after he had left behind orthodox practice. It also engages with Heaney's increasing concern, in his later work, with the loss of a metaphysical sensibility, and his turning to the Roman poet Virgil to deal with questions of death and post-mortem existence. The book concludes by arguing that Heaney's Catholicism is displaced rather than rejected, and that his vision expands to accommodate both the Christian and the Classical worlds.
Teaching Second Language Academic Writing
Authors: Tardy Christine M.
Published: February 2025

This Element offers readers an overview of the theory, research, and practice of teaching academic writing to second language/multilingual (L2) students. The Element begins with a discussion of contextual features and some of the most common settings in which L2AW is taught. The Element then defines and shares examples of several concepts, pedagogical approaches, and teaching practices that are particularly relevant to L2AW instruction. Reflective questions guide readers to consider how these aspects of L2AW might be carried out within their own educational settings. Finally, the Element considers the rapid changes in technology and their influences on texts and academic writing.
Willingness to Pay with Reference-dependent Preferences: A Comparative Analysis of Attribute-based and Alternative-based Approach
Authors: Cui Manlin , Yue Chengyan , Treiber Erin L. , Clark Matthew
Published: February 2025

Consumer preferences are often influenced by reference-dependent preferences. This study investigates the influence of reference-dependent preferences on the estimation of willingness to pay (WTP) for table grape attributes elicited by a second-price auction. We evaluate two models: the attribute-based reference dependence model, where individuals compare the target product’s attributes with their favorite ones, and the alternative-based reference dependence model, where comparisons are made with a reference product. Results show that including reference points impacts the WTP estimation for different attributes, with varying levels of loss aversion, suggesting the attribute-specific influence of reference points.
Ponder the path of thy feet: How China’s security–development nexus works in the Mekong region
Authors: Gong Xue
Published: February 2025

This article explores China’s evolving approach to South–South security cooperation, focusing on its use of the security–development nexus in its relations with Global South countries, particularly in the Mekong region. The central research question is: under what circumstances will China adjust the balance between security and development in its cooperation with the Global South? This article uses two case studies in the Mekong region, where China has applied contrasting approaches to address different security-related issues, to explore how China justifies its security choices through the security–development nexus in its relations with Global South countries. The varying security priorities and complex regional dynamics have led to variations in the nature and scope of its security cooperation with the Global South. Drawing on Chinese official documents, media reports, and interviews with scholars and policy advisors, this article argues that China adapts its security–development approach based on three key factors: its perception of security risks, its ability to dominate an issue, and the urgency of its interests. The significance of this research lies in its contribution to the ongoing debate about China’s role in South–South security cooperation. The study also offers insights into the challenges China faces in managing its dual role as both a development partner and a security actor, with implications for its influence in the Mekong region and beyond.
Participant perspectives about decentralised trial procedures in a remote delivery nutrition intervention trial
Authors: Davies Naomi , Slykerman Rebecca F.
Published: February 2025

Participant recruitment and retention are consistently recognised as significant, costly challenges in nutrition intervention trials. Decentralised study procedures address some of the recruitment and retention limitations in traditional trial methodology. Understanding participant perceptions and experiences of decentralised methods in nutrition studies is key to improving trial design and conduct. The aim of this study was to explore participant opinions about remote delivery of a dietary supplement intervention trial. Adults enrolled in a clinical trial of a milk fat globule membrane nutritional supplement for improvement of psychological wellbeing were invited to take part in a post-intervention interview. Interviews were conducted over video conferencing and transcribed. Using a semi-structured interview format six aspects of trial design were discussed: general processes, written instructions, contact throughout the study, self-collection of saliva samples, wearable device use, and cognitive assessment. Thematic analysis derived themes from the data for each of the aspects of trial conduct discussed. Seventy-three participants completed the interview. Interviewees reported a positive overall experience of the remote delivery procedures used. Accessible communication between researchers and participants and clear written instructions were identified as key to participant experience. Recall of instructions and adherence to the nutritional intervention was difficult for some respondents with suggestions made for facilitating this in future remote delivery nutrition studies. Use of wearables, in-home saliva sampling, and self-administered cognitive assessments were feasible and acceptable to most participants. The remote delivery of a nutritional intervention trial, including self-collected biological samples, is feasible and positively viewed by participants.
Physiological reactions in plants visualized by 14C: The impact of sea spray on radiocarbon analyses of terrestrial plants in coastal regions quantified by a greenhouse study
Authors: Göhring Andrea , Hüls C. Matthias , Hölzl Stefan , Mayr Christoph , Strauss Harald , Hamann Christian
Published: February 2025

Marine aerosols can enter the terrestrial environment via sea spray which is known to affect the stable isotope fingerprint of coastal samples (plants, animals/humans), including δ13C. However, the impact of sea spray on 14C dating of terrestrial organisms at coastal sites has not been investigated so far. Besides a direct effect, sea spray is accompanied by physiological effects, e.g., due to salinity. In an artificial sea spray experiment in the greenhouse, the effect of sea spray on 14C in plant tissue was investigated. Beach grass was sprayed with mineral salt solutions containing only traces of NaCl or with brackish water from the Schlei inlet or the Baltic Sea. These plants should give a 14C signal close to the modern atmospheric 14CO2 composition. However, three treatment groups showed variable radiocarbon concentrations. Plants sprayed with water from the Schlei inlet, Baltic Sea water, or with a mineral salt solution with very high HCO3– concentration are depleted in 14C content relative to contemporary atmospheric composition. While δ13C reflects physiological effects in the plants, caused either by salinity (NaCl) or HCO3– stress, resulting in decreased discrimination against 13C, the uptake of high amounts of 14C (ca. 53–67%) from DIC (dissolved inorganic carbon) partly masks the underlying physiological reactions, as is visible in the radiocarbon signature of the plant tissues. This preliminary study indicates that sea spray effects on plant tissue could potentially influence faunal tissue 14C composition at coastal sites. Further research is required to better understand the observed reservoir effect.
Sustaining Exposure to Fact-Checks: Misinformation Discernment, Media Consumption, and Its Political Implications
Authors: BOWLES JEREMY , CROKE KEVIN , LARREGUY HORACIO , LIU SHELLEY , MARSHALL JOHN
Published: February 2025

Exposure to misinformation can affect citizens’ beliefs, political preferences, and compliance with government policies. However, little is known about how to durably reduce susceptibility to misinformation, particularly in the Global South. We evaluate an intervention in South Africa that encouraged individuals to consume biweekly fact-checks—as text messages or podcasts—via WhatsApp for six months. Sustained exposure to these fact-checks induced substantial internalization of fact-checked content, while increasing participants’ ability to discern new political and health misinformation upon exposure—especially when fact-check consumption was financially incentivized. Fact-checks that could be quickly consumed via short text messages or via podcasts with empathetic content were most effective. We find limited effects on news consumption choices or verification behavior, but still observe changes in political attitudes and COVID-19-related behaviors. These results demonstrate that sustained exposure to fact-checks can inoculate citizens against future misinformation, but highlight the difficulty of inducing broader behavioral changes relating to media usage.