bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regularity of a Randomly Stopped Sum Determines Regularity of the Stopping Moment
Authors: Šiaulys Jonas , Elijio Aistė , Leipus Remigijus , Nakliuda Neda
Published: February 2025

The paper investigates the randomly stopped sums. Primary random variables are supposed to be nonnegative, independent, and identically distributed, whereas the stopping moment is supposed to be a~nonnegative, integer-valued, and nondegenerate at zero random variable, independent of primary random variables. We find the conditions under which dominated variation or extended regularity of randomly stopped sum determines the stopping moment to belong to the class of dominatedly varying distributions. In the case of extended regularity, we derive the asymptotic inequalities for the ratio of tails of the distributions of randomly stopped sums and a stopping moment. The obtained results generalize analogous statements recently obtained for regularly varying distributions. Compared with the previous studies, we apply new methods to the proofs of the main statements. At the end, we provide one example that illustrates the theoretical results.
Breaking Down Stigma Against Disability: Genesis, Objectives, Implementation and Evaluation of the ABall4All Project
Authors: Mastoras Elías , Charmpis Alexandros , Ponserti Francisco Xavier , Sánchez-Romero Elisa Isabel , García-Mas Alejandro
Published: February 2025

Background: Throughout human history, stigma has persistently affected individuals with different conditions (e.g. epilepsy, mental disorders, and physical or cognitive disabilities). Specifically, visually impairments restrict environmental perception and psychomotor skills, often leading to sedentary behavior, which adversely affect physical and mental health. This paper describes the general lines and the first results of the Erasmus+ “ABall4All NPE unified” social transfer project, funded by the European Union and developed in Greece, Turkey and Spain between 2023 and 2024. Objectives: To study whether the design and implementation of inclusive sports activities for children with visual impairments produces an enigmatizing impact and a change in attitudes in par-ticipating children without visual impairments. Methods: It was developed through inclusive activities in schools and sports clubs, using football as a sport that brings together children and young people with and without visual impairments, families and educational centers. Zarit Burden Inventory and Questionnaire of Eudaimonic Well-being were used for family members with visually impaired children. In addition, an ad hoc questionnaire was used to assess the volunteers and mentors’ satisfaction with the realization of the events. Results: both volunteers and mentors showed high rates of satisfaction with the training received and the events held. Caregivers showed moderate perceived well-being. Regarding family burden, age was a significant predictor variable in the perceived burden with an explanatory capacity of 36% of the variance. Conclusions: These findings have implications for interventions aimed at reducing caregiver burden.
Plant Novel Transcription Factors and Their Roles in Gene Regulation
Authors: Singh Atul , Sutradhar Monoj , Prasad Shiva Sai , Ramteke Pramod W , Rajeshwar J R , Vagvolgyi Csaba
Published: February 2025

Transcription factors (TFs) are critical regulators of gene expression, playing key roles in 1 various biological processes such as growth, development, and stress responses in plants. While many TF families like MYB, bZIP, and WRKY have been identified and extensively studied in model plants, a substantial number of novel TFs remain uncharacterized, particularly in non-model and economically significant plant species. The discovery of these novel TFs offers a promising avenue for advancing our understanding of plant biology and improving crop traits. Recent advancements in high-throughput sequencing, genomics, and bioinformatics have facilitated the identification of previously overlooked or newly evolved TFs, expanding the repertoire of known plant transcriptional regulators. This review highlights the emergence of novel TF families and their functional roles in regulating plant growth, adaptation to abiotic and biotic stresses, and metabolic pathways. We examine the molecular mechanisms by which these TFs govern gene expression, their interactions with other signaling pathways, and their potential applications in crop improvement. In addition, we explore the challenges and opportunities associated with the functional characterization and validation of novel TFs, as well as the technologies that are enabling these discoveries. Special attention is given to the potential of novel TFs to enhance stress tolerance, disease resistance, and overall productivity in crops, with a focus on their integration into biotechnological approaches, such as genome editing and transgenic crop development. The review concludes by outlining future research directions and the potential impact of novel TFs in addressing global agricultural challenges, including climate change, food security, and sustainability.
Molecular Iodine-Catalyzed Synthesis of 3,3-Disubstituted Isatins: Total Synthesis of Indole Alkaloid, 3,3-Dimethoxy-2-Oxindole
Authors: Tokushige Keisuke , Asai Shota , Abe Takumi
Published: February 2025

3,3-Dialkoxy-2-oxindoles are prevent in natural product family and exhibit unique biological activities. Among them, acyclic alkoxy analogues shows instability toward acidic conditions, making the access to acyclic isatin ketals highly challenging. Conventional methods for the synthesis of 3,3-dialkoxy-2-oxindoles usually require strong acid and harsh reaction conditions, resulting in low overall efficiency. Herein, we report the acid- and metal-free protocol for the synthesis of 3,3-dialkoxy-2-oxindoles from isatins through an iodine-catalyzed ketalization. This protocol does not require the use of any specific reagents including metal-catalysts. Furthermore, the total synthesis of the unprecedented 2-oxindole alkaloid bearing 3,3-dimethoxy moiety has been achieved.
3D Printing in Dentistry: A Scoping Review of Clinical Applications, Advantages, and Current Limitations
Authors: Jun Mi-Kyoung , Kim Jong Woo , Ku Hye-min
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Three-dimensional (3D) printing is transforming dentistry by enabling precise and personalized treatments in prosthodontics, orthodontics, and en-dodontics. However, challenges such as high costs, material limitations, and post-processing requirements hinder its broader adoption. This review evaluates the clinical applications, benefits, and limitations of 3D printing in these disciplines. Methods: A narrative review was conducted using literature from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus, covering studies from January 2006 to November 2024. Key top-ics included applications, material properties, and technological challenges in pros-thodontics, orthodontics, and endodontics. Results: In prosthodontics, 3D printing fa-cilitates the fabrication of crowns, bridges, and dentures with high accuracy, though material strength and stability remain challenges. Orthodontics benefits from 3D-printed aligners and diagnostic models, improving patient comfort and treatment precision, but issues with material durability persist. In endodontics, 3D-printed sur-gical guides and training models enhance procedural accuracy and educational out-comes. Across disciplines, 3D printing reduces production time and enhances custom-ization but incurs high costs and requires significant post-processing. Conclusions: 3D printing has revolutionized dental care by improving precision, efficiency, and patient satisfaction. However, material and cost-related barriers limit its widespread clinical use. Ongoing research and technological advancements are essential to address these challenges, improve material properties, and reduce costs, paving the way for broader applications and better patient outcomes in personalized dental care.
Reducing Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) Tip Migration in Neonates: A Proactive Approach to Detection and Repositioning
Authors: Diewo Debbie , Mawson John , Shivananda Sandesh
Published: February 2025

Objective: PICC tip migration often occurs after placement despite efforts to position the tip centrally. This study aimed to quantify PICC tip migration within 3–7 hours post-insertion and evaluate the effectiveness of manual adjustments for repositioning. Study Design: This single-centre retrospective study evaluated the impact of a proactive approach following PICC placement, that included standardized body positioning during X-rays, defined target PICC tip locations, radiological surveillance at 4–6 hours post-insertion, and guided manual adjustments. We included all infants receiving PICCs during a five-year period; trained nurses and physicians in vascular access performed the insertions. Results: Of 712 infants included, the median gestational age was 30 weeks, and the median birth weight was 1386 grams. PICC tip migration occurred in 211 infants (30%) within 3–7 hours post-insertion, with 81% of cases involving inward migration into the cardiac silhouette. Migration was more common in upper limb PICCs (82%). Manual adjustments achieved satisfactory repositioning in 191 infants (83%). None of the infants experienced pericardial effusion. Conclusion: A proactive approach that standardized imaging protocols, timing, and PICC tip positioning detected migration in 30% of infants and successfully facilitated repositioning in 83% of cases.
Nonlinear Feedback Linearization and LQG/LTR Control: A Comparative Study for a Single-Machine Infinite-Bus System
Authors: Vernekar Pratik
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a comparative study of three advanced control strategies for a single-machine infinite-bus (SMIB) system: the nonlinear feedback linearizing controller (NFLC), the integral-NFLC (INFLC), and the linear-quadratic-Gaussian/loop transfer recovery (LQG/LTR) control. The NFLC and INFLC techniques use exact feedback linearization to precisely cancel the SMIB system nonlinearities, enabling the use of decentralized, linear, and optimal controllers for the decoupled generator and turbine-governor systems while remaining unaffected by the SMIB system's internal dynamics and operating conditions. In contrast, the LQG/LTR approach employs an enhanced Kalman filter, designed using the LTR procedure and a detailed frequency-domain loop-shaping analysis, to achieve a reasonable trade-off between optimal performance, noise/disturbance rejection, robustness recovery, and stability margins for the SMIB system. We provide a control synthesis framework for constructing practical, verifiable, scalable, and resilient linear and nonlinear controllers for SMIB and multi-machine power systems by utilizing a high-fidelity plant model for validation, a reduced-order control-design model, and the correlations between the two models' control inputs. Rigorous simulations and comparative analysis of the proposed controllers and a full-state linear–quadratic regulator show the benefits, constraints, and trade-offs of each controller in terms of transient response, steady-state error, robustness, rotor angle stability, frequency control, and voltage regulation under different operating conditions. Ultimately, this study aims to guide the selection of appropriate control strategies for large-scale power systems, enhancing the overall resilience and reliability of the electric grid.
Spendception: The Psychological Impact of Digital Payments on Consumer Purchase Behavior and Impulse Buying
Authors: Faraz Naeem , Anjum Amna
Published: February 2025

Purpose/Originality: This study introduces a novel construct, Spendception, which conceptualizes the psychological impact of digital payment systems on consumer behavior, marking a significant contribution to the field of consumer psychology and behavioral economics. Spendception reflects the reduced psychological resistance to spending when using digital payment methods, as compared to cash, due to the diminished visibility of transactions and the perceived ease of payments. This research aims to explore the role of Spendception in increasing consumer purchase behavior whereas the role of impulse buying has been observed as mediator.
Method: To test the proposed model, an extensive survey has been done by collecting 1162 respondents from all walk of life to get the real picture. We employed Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) to validate the measurement of key constructs. To test the hypothetical relations among all the variables, we employed Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Furthermore, a machine learning technique has been used to test the robustness of the model.
Findings: Results shows that Spendception greatly boots the consumer purchase behavior with impulse buying partially mediates the relation. Gender was found to moderate the relationship, with female consumers being more susceptible to impulse buying caused by Spendception. The study shows that digital payment systems making buying feel less noticeable, which lead people spending more without realizing the financial impact.
Theoretical Contribution: This study introduces Spendception, a novel construct that extends existing consumer behavior theories by explaining how digital payment systems reduce psychological barriers to spending. It bridges the gap between mental accounting and the pain of paying, demonstrating that the lack of immediate visibility and physicality in digital payments alters consumers’ perceptions of spending, leading to increased impulse buying and higher purchase behavior. The findings also offer actionable insights for marketers in designing targeted campaigns that leverage the psychological effects of Spendception.
Does the New Tax Policy Make a Difference? Case Study of the Yacht Industry in Taiwan with SUR-OLS and DID Approach
Authors: Chiu Eva ChiaHua , Wu Chi-Cheng , Wang Yu Kun
Published: February 2025

Although the WHO has declared that the COVID-19 pandemic era is over, little is known about the operation of yachts post-COVID-19 pandemic era . This study compares the differences in the yachting industry between the COVID-19 and the post COVID-19 phases. Looking back at the traditional land-based tourism industry, including restaurants and tour buses, it is true that at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, it was greatly affected by the closure of businesses. However, yachts engaged in recreational activities at sea fulfill the requirement of isolation from crowds. Hence, during the outbreak, marine yachting activities with the fear of being infected by the epidemic became an important alternative to land-based activities. There are many reasons why there has always been strong demand for new yachts in the market. One reason is that most buyers want to build a yacht that truly fits their style and taste, not someone else's. Moreover, tax strategies make buying a new superyacht more attractive. Recall that the pandemic shock, although event and macroeconomic studies have been conducted in the literature, we have not yet seen any research related to the pre- and post-outbreak impacts on the Asian yachting industry.
This study first observes the impact of the change in rental tax policy on yacht groups in 2018, and then analyzes the changes in profits and revenues of Asia's largest yacht company and another large yacht emerging company before and after the COVID-19 pandemic using the DID model and the SUR-OLS method. More importantly, our study also examines the association between CEO compensation and the operating performance of two yacht companies during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Quantum Leap: Reshaping Genetic Diagnostics Using Quantum Computing
Authors: Jura Ana Maria Cristina , Jura Ștefan-Alexandru , Popescu Daniela-Eugenia , Belengeanu Valerica , Gușiță Bianca , Pienar Corina , Manea Aniko Maria , Boia Eugen Radu
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the use of quantum computing, particularly Grover's algorithm, to improve genetic diagnostics for DiGeorge syndrome compared to conventional computational techniques. We employed the IBM Qiskit framework to simulate Grover's algorithm for the rapid and precise identification of pathogenic gene sequences. Background: Conventional genetic diagnostic methods are laborious, delaying essential treatment decisions. Quantum computing, capable of swiftly processing large datasets, offers substantial improvements in diagnostic speed and precision. Materials and Methods: We executed Grover's algorithm using Qiskit, evaluating its performance relative to classical algorithms based on diagnostic time and accuracy. We visualized results using R Studio with the ggplot2 and dplyr libraries. Results: The quantum methodology significantly reduced diagnostic duration from 300 seconds to 45 seconds and improved accuracy from 85% to 98%, surpassing traditional techniques. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that quantum computing can transform genetic diagnostics by enabling faster and more accurate identification of genetic disorders, thus promoting earlier and more personalized treatments. Future research should focus on improving the scalability of quantum computers and incorporating effective quantum algorithms into clinical workflows.
Response of Photosynthetic Capacity to Nitrogen Addition in Larix gmelinii Trees in Different Crown Classes
Authors: Cai Ruijia , Wang Jingjing , Zhang Rui , Wang Qinggui , Wang Chuankuan , Quan Xiankui
Published: February 2025

We explored the response of photosynthetic capacity to nitrogen (N) deposition among Larix gmelinii trees in different crown classes (e.g. suppressed, intermediate, and dominant trees) in a 12-year field experiment in a forest in the Greater Khingan Mountains in Northeast China. Four N-addition treatments were established: control (CK), low N (LN), medium N (MN), and high N (HN) (0, 25, 50, and 75 kg N·ha−1·year−1, respectively). Photosynthesis and its influencing factors were measured in 2023. Nitrogen addition significantly increased the maximum net photosynthetic rate (Pmax), maximum carboxylation rate (Vcmax), and maximum electron transport rate (Jmax) of suppressed and intermediate trees. The suppressed trees showed maximum Pmax and Vcmax in MN and HN, and maximum Jmax in HN. The intermediate trees showed maximum Pmax, Vcmax, and Jmax in MN. For dominant trees, Pmax was increased in LN and MN and decreased in HN, and Vcmax was increased by N addition and peaked in MN. Nitrogen addition significantly increased the leaf N content (Nmass), chlorophyll content (Chlm), ratio of N to phosphorous (N:P), and photosynthetic enzyme activities in all crown classes. Nmass had significant nonlinear relationships with Pmax, Vcmax, and Jmax. Enzyme activity and Chlm positively affected the photosynthetic capacity of suppressed and intermediate trees, and N:P negatively affected the photosynthetic capacity of dominant trees. The promoting effect of N addition on photosynthetic capacity was stronger in suppressed and intermediate trees than in dominant trees. Therefore, crown class should be considered when studying the effect of N deposition on boreal forest.
High-Capacity Testing System Based on Power System Supply
Authors: Chen Guoping , Li Yong , Wang Jian , Chen Huixin , Luo Yuan
Published: February 2025

With the expansion of power system scale and the advancement of new energy grid integration, the performance verification of medium and high-voltage power equipment faces increasingly stringent requirements. This paper addresses the issues of low efficiency, poor reproducibility, and safety hazards in traditional large-scale testing by proposing a system model for a high-capacity test system and a measurement and control system solution based on power system power sources. By establishing simulation models of the main test circuits, the paper analyzes the short-circuit currents and Transient Recovery Voltage (TRV) waveforms of high-voltage switchgear and introduces a standardized method for configuring test circuits. This method has been validated through simulations and physical tests, demonstrating its feasibility and accuracy. Based on this, a standardized method for test circuits is proposed, and its feasibility is verified through practical testing. Additionally, an automated monitoring and control system is designed to streamline the testing process, reduce human intervention, and ensure the accuracy of test data, achieving full-process automation in test parameter selection, circuit connection, and data acquisition. This system significantly enhances testing efficiency, safety, and consistency, effectively improving the efficiency and reliability of inspections and testing for medium and high-voltage power equipment.
Current Treatment Paradigms for Advanced Melanoma with Brain Metastases
Authors: Bonzano Elisabetta , Barruscotti Stefania , Chiellino Silvia , Montagna Benedetta , Bonzano Chiara , Imarisio Ilaria , Colombo Sara , Guerrini Francesco , Saddi Jessica , La Mattina Salvatore , Tomasini Carlo Francesco , Spena Giannantonio , Pedrazzoli Paolo , Lancia Andrea
Published: February 2025

Melanoma brain metastases (MBM) remain a major therapeutic challenge, requiring a multidisciplinary approach integrating systemic and local therapies. The advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapies has markedly improved patients’ survival, with the combination of ipilimumab and nivolumab now considered as first-line systemic treatment for patients with asymptomatic MBM. Radiotherapy plays a crucial role, with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) now preferred over whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT), due to its efficacy and lower risk of neurocognitive impairment. Retrospective data support a potential synergy between systemic therapy and SRS and emerging clinical evidence suggests that this combined approach may offer enhanced disease control and could become the standard of care. Key unresolved questions include the ideal sequencing of SRS with systemic treatments, the optimal radiation dose to balance efficacy and neuroprotection, and the identification of predictive biomarkers to refine patient selection. Emerging research focuses on tumor microenvironment interactions and novel radiosensitizers to enhance therapeutic outcomes. Furthermore, artificial intelligence-driven models integrating radiomics, radiogenomics, and metabolomics hold promise for advancing precision medicine in MBM management. Ongoing prospective clinical trials are crucial to establishing standardized treatment guidelines, ensuring a personalized, patient-centered approach that optimizes survival while preserving quality of life.
Experimental Study on Flow Boiling Heat Transfer Characteristic in Top- Connected Microchannels with a Ni/Ag Micro/nano Composite Structure
Authors: Xu Zeyu , Zhang Wei , Zhang Qianqian , Zhai Xiangrui , Yang Xufei , Deng Yajun , Wang Xi
Published: February 2025

Microchannel heat exchangers have a large specific surface area, which endows them with high heat and mass transfer efficiency and broad application prospects in fields such as chemical engineering and energy. Aiming at enhancing the flow boiling heat transfer in microchannels, a top-connected microchannel heat exchanger with a Ni/Ag micro/nano composite structure surface was designed. This top-connected microchannel consists of 11 parallel microchannels. The cross - section of each microchannel is a square with a size of 400 μm×400 μm, and the height of the connected space above the parallel channels is also 400 μm. The Ni/Ag micro/nano composite structure was prepared on the surface of the top-connected microchannel by the brush - plating technique. Using anhydrous ethanol as the working fluid, a comparative experimental study on flow boiling heat transfer in regular parallel microchannels (Regular Microchannel - RMC), top-connected microchannels (Top-connected Microchannel-TCMC), and top-connected microchannels with a micro/nano composite structure surface (TCMC-Ni/Ag) was carried out. The results show that the maximum local heat transfer coefficient of the TCMC-Ni/Ag surface reaches 179.84 kW/m²·K, which is 4.1 times higher than that of the RMC. Visualization studies have found that for TCMC-Ni/Ag, the strongly hydrophilic micro/nano composite structure surface simultaneously increases the nucleation density and nucleation frequency. Under medium and low heat flux conditions, a flow pattern structure is formed where the gas phase converges in the top-connected region while a large number of bubbles still form on the microchannel surface. Under high heat flux density conditions, the capillary liquid absorption effect of the strongly hydrophilic micro/nano composite structure leads to a thin-liquid -film convective evaporation heat transfer mode in the channel, which is the main mechanism for the significant improvement of its heat transfer performance.
RHOX Homeobox Transcription Factor Regulation of Ins2 in Rodent Granulosa Cells
Authors: MacLean James Arthur , Hayashi Kanako
Published: February 2025

The Rhox family of homeobox transcription factors are established regulators of gonad function, but their downstream targets have been relatively elusive, particularly in the female reproductive tract. Here we characterize Ins2 as a downstream target of the two granulosa cell-specific factors, Rhox5 and Rhox8 in the ovary. While INS2 is classically produced by islet cells in the pancreas, we found that Ins2 gene expression is present in the mural granulosa cell layer of large antral follicles, and it was not significantly reduced in Rhox5-null mice. This was a surprising finding as we previously validated Ins2 as a direct target of RHOX5 in Sertoli cells, the male counterpart to granulosa cells that serves the germ cell nurse function in the testis. In the ovary, RHOX8 appears to be the major driver of Ins2 expression as evidenced from the maximal activity of Ins2 promoter reporter plasmids when RHOX8 protein was active within granulosa cells in vitro and the down-regulation of endogenous Ins2 in mice with granulosa cell-specific knockdown of RHOX8 in vivo. RHOX5 induces Rhox8 expression in pre-antral granulosa cells and then becomes relatively silent in peri-ovulatory follicles. However, Rhox8 does not peak until after the ovulatory LH surge. Induction of Rhox8 by progesterone, after the normal window of RHOX5 has passed, may explain why Rhox5-null female mice display apparently normal fertility, if RHOX8 is capable of redundant stimulation of target genes which are essential for ovulation.
Perspective and potential of grape co-products for aquaculture
Authors: Guimarães Cybele Pinheiro , Tesser Marcelo Borges
Published: February 2025

The growing demand for aquaculture feed, combined with environmental concerns, has driven the search for sustainable alternatives to conventional feed ingredients. Grape by-products, such as pomace, stalks, seeds, and skin, have great potential because of their nutritional properties, including high concentrations of dietary fiber, proteins, lipids, vitamins, and bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols. The compounds present in these by-products have bioactive properties that can benefit the health of aquatic organisms. Despite the significant discharge of these byproducts into the environment, their inclusion in fish and shrimp diets can improve zootechnical parameters such as growth performance, health, and meat quality, while contributing to the sustainability of aquaculture, reducing waste, and promoting a more efficient production cycle. This article aimed to explore the applicability of viticulture by-products in aquaculture, highlighting the beneficial effects of the bioactive compounds present in these by-products and discussing their potential for use in aquaculture production.
Development of a Soft Robot with Locomotion Mechanism and Physical Reservoir Computing for Mimicking Gastropods
Authors: Tayama Yoshimune ,   Editorial Office, Furukawa Hidemitsu , Ogawa Jun
Published: February 2025

The class Gastropods, which includes snails and sea slugs, inhabits a wide range of environments. Members of this class move by utilizing waves generated through muscular contractions in their soft body tissues (pedal wave). This characteristic is observed in both aquatic and terrestrial species and serves as a mechanism for adapting to various environments. In this study, we developed a soft robot that generates pedal wave using soft matter. This soft robot employs sensing based on machine learning, utilizing the soft material as a physical reservoir to leverage its environmental adaptability and soft exterior. The experiments investigated in this study were the relationship between locomotion performance and environments and the identification accuracy achieved through machine learning.
Gamifying Education: Exploring Student Perceptions of Kahoot! As a Learning Medium
Authors: Oktaviani Anggit Laesa
Published: February 2025

This study investigates students' perceptions of Kahoot! as a learning medium for English at Sekolah Tinggi Bahasa Asing Technocrat. Employing a qualitative approach, the research gathers data through questionnaires, interviews, and observations. The sample includes 37 students from various academic years who have utilized Kahoot! in both online and offline English classes. The findings indicate a generally positive perception of Kahoot!. Based on the questionnaire results, 47.78% of students demonstrated high motivation to learn English using Kahoot!, attributing this to its competitive features and engaging atmosphere. Students expressed a preference for Kahoot! exercises over traditional textbooks, highlighting the scoring system as particularly motivating. Regarding material comprehension and skill development, 47.98% agreed that Kahoot! enhances their understanding of English materials and improves their language skills. Additionally, students reported that Kahoot! supports material review, fosters supplementary learning, and strengthens vocabulary retention. In terms of the learning process, 64% of respondents agreed that Kahoot! facilitates effective learning by encouraging group collaboration, increasing classroom interaction, and improving material retention compared to conventional teaching methods. Overall, the study concludes that Kahoot! is an effective and engaging tool for teaching and learning English at the tertiary level.
An Analysis of Figurative Languages in the Niki Zefanya’s Song Lyrics
Authors: Zahria Salma Talita , Wibowo Hanafi
Published: February 2025

Language and music are deeply interconnected, enabling artists to express emotions and abstract ideas creatively. While figurative language is a key element in literary and musical compositions, limited research has examined how emerging contemporary musicians employ it to enhance lyrical expression. This study investigates the use of figurative language in three selected songs by Niki Zefanya. Using a qualitative approach with textual analysis, this research identifies and categorizes figurative devices present in the lyrics. The findings reveal five types of figurative language: metaphors and hyperboles as the most dominant, followed by irony, synecdoche, and repetition, each contributing to the emotional and thematic depth of the songs. These results highlight the role of figurative language in shaping meaning, enhancing artistic expression, and deepening listeners’ engagement with song lyrics. This study contributes to the fields of stylistics and discourse analysis by offering insights into the intersection of language and music, demonstrating how figurative language functions as a communicative tool in contemporary songwriting.
Differentiated Instructions in ESL and EFL Classrooms: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Religioni Akifayadia , Meilinda Calista , Alawiyah Asri , Farrel Luka Muhammad
Published: February 2025

Differentiated Instruction (DI) is an English teaching method that emphasizes addressing students' unique characteristics by tailoring instruction based on their interests, learning profiles, and readiness. While the concept has gained attention, a comprehensive analysis of its techniques, aspects, and impacts remains limited. This study aimed to bridge this gap by conducting content analysis on 32 articles related to DI in English classrooms. The researchers summarized, analyzed, and compared data to derive key findings. Results indicate that the study highlights DI's applicability across diverse classroom contexts and levels with diverse techniques. The reviewed articles also address the core aspects of differentiation—content, process, product, and environment—each of which involves distinct techniques, such as tiered and adjusted materials and grouping strategies. Furthermore, it identifies the positive effects of DI on students' academic performance, psychological well-being, classroom environment, and teacher practices. These findings underline the need for more holistic approaches to implementing DI and provide valuable insights for educators aiming to enhance learning outcomes through differentiated strategies.
BARRIERS IN SUSTAINABLE LEAN SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT: IMPLEMENTATION IN SMEs
Authors: Takcı Ebru , Ada Erhan , Kazançoğlu Yiğit
Published: February 2025

As the world undergoes significant transformations in various domains, including technology, energy supply and communication, the idea of sustainability has become a significant issue. This study investigates the barriers to Sustainable Lean Supply Chain (SLSC) management within Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) and explores the structural interrelationships among these barriers. A comprehensive literature review was carried out to recognize critical elements relevant to the research topic, resulting in the identification of fifteen specific elements that account for 85% of the barriers in SLSC management. The DEMATEL method was used to evaluate the significance and influence levels of these factors. Furthermore, structured in-depth interviews were conducted with ten experts representing sectors that constitute 85% of the SMEs operating in Kayseri Organized Industrial Zone (OIZ), Turkey, including metal products, furniture, plastic packaging, construction materials, textiles and food. The findings reveal that strategies represent the most significant barrier to SLSC management in SMEs. The barriers were analyzed in two dimensions: influencing and influenced factors. The primary influencing factor identified was laws, standards, regulations, and legislation while the most significant influenced factor was found supply and suppliers. The study concludes with findings and actionable recommendations for practitioners and decision-makers.
The Political Economy of Japan's Net-Zero Vision in the Context of Energy Security
Authors: Doğrul Mürsel , Takayuki Yokota
Published: February 2025

This article analyzes Japan's ambitious 2050 net-zero emissions target and its effects on energy security with a primary focus on the strategic role of hydrogen technology Japan's energy security dilemma lies in its dependence on fossil fuels and nuclear power, and the challenges of transitioning to renewable energy sources. Understanding how Japan's 2050 Net-Zero Vision shapes its foreign and security policies is essential, especially as hydrogen technology plays a central role in these changes. This work posits that while Japan's hydrogen ambitions offer promise, the challenge of balancing energy security with net-zero goals is complex. The high costs of hydrogen production and ongoing reliance on fossil fuels complicate Japan's energy transition and international energy partnerships. The article employs a political economy framework to evaluate the feasibility and practicality of Japan's hydrogen-centric energy strategy, taking into account both domestic policy implications and its impact on global alliances. Why environmental and climate security is often secondary to economic security in energy discussions requires further examination. The article presents theoretical perspectives on the reduction of fossil fuel dependence, the enhancement of energy self-sufficiency, and the advancement of technologies that can mitigate long-term vulnerabilities. Hydrogen plays a pivotal role in Japan's energy and climate agenda, serving as a cornerstone for both domestic objectives and international collaboration. Furthermore, the article analyses Japan's hydrogen collaborations with ASEAN and Middle Eastern countries, along with the geopolitical and economic implications. This study identifies the opportunities and challenges in Japan's transition to new energy sources and examines the broader implications of Japan's energy security for global energy dynamics. The article maps the scope of major challenges Japan faces in balancing its net-zero targets—a critical issue for both regional and global policy—while ensuring its energy security.
An artificial selection procedure enriches for known and suspected chitin degraders from the prokaryotic rare biosphere of multiple marine biotopes
Authors: Meunier Laurence , Keller-Costa Tina , Cannella David , Gonçalves Jorge , Dechamps Etienne , Marques Matilde , Costa Rodrigo , George Isabelle F.
Published: February 2025

Background
Biological chitin degradation is a major process in the ocean, governed primarily by the action of microorganisms. It is now known that the structure and taxonomic profile of chitin-degrading microbial communities change across marine biotopes, but efforts to harness the chitin turnover potential within these communities in the laboratory have seldom been attempted. In this study, we characterized the prokaryotic communities associated with the marine sponge Sarcotragus spinosulus, the octocoral Eunicella labiata, and their surrounding sediment and seawater and applied an artificial selection procedure to enrich bacterial consortia capable of degrading chitin from the abovementioned biotopes. Throughout the procedure, chitin degradation was monitored, and the taxonomic composition of four successive enrichment cultures from each biotope were followed.
Results
The naturally occurring prokaryotic communities of the two host species were distinct from each other with specific taxa associated with each animal even though they were co-inhabiting the same geographic area. We found that members of the microbial rare biosphere were recruited in the enrichment cultures from all biotopes, while dominant bacterial symbionts likely to play a role in chitin degradation within marine sponges and octocorals remained “unculturable” under the conditions used in this study. Well-known chitin degraders such as Vibrio, Pseudoalteromonas and Aquimarina, as well as other taxa not known or yet poorly known for their role(s) in chitin degradation such as Aureivirga, Halodesulfovibrio, Motilimonas, Muricauda, Psychromonas, Poseidonibacter, Reichenbachiella, and Thalassotalea, among others, were enriched using our artificial selection approach. Distinct chitin-degrading consortia were enriched from each marine biotope, highlighting the feasibility of this approach in fostering the discovery of novel microorganisms and enzymes involved in chitin degradation pathways of relevance in applied biotechnology.
Conclusion
In this study, distinct bacterial consortia possessing moderate to high efficiencies at degrading chitin were unveiled. They were composed of a mix of known chitin degraders, known chitin utilizers and many taxa poorly or not yet known for their role(s) in chitin degradation such as Aureivirga, Psychromonas, Motilimonas, Reichenbachiella, or Halodesulfovibrio. The latter taxa are potential key players in marine chitin degradation whose study could lead to the discovery of novel enzyme variants able to degrade chitin and its derivatives.
Opportunities to enhance conservation success for sharks
Authors: Temple Andrew , Cochran Jesse , Pirog Agathe , Dulvy Nicholas , Cortes Enric , Weigmann Simon , Booth Hollie , Wheeler Carolyn , Finucci Brittany , Haque Alifa , Heithaus Michael , Seidu Issah , Rummer Jodie , Berumen Michael
Published: February 2025

Sharks, rays, and chimaeras are among the most threatened vertebrate lineages. Despite considerable conservation efforts, the extinction risk of sharks continues to rise. We present a quantitative analysis of the shark conservation literature, exploring trends and interconnectivities in key topics using a machine learning approach. We show that shark conservation research is a well interconnected, coherently structured, and rapidly expanding field centred around a conservation nexus linking human-wildlife interactions to species use and management. Shark conservation research is increasingly interdisciplinary and is well prioritised toward key threats that drive the decline of shark populations, both of which are key to effective management. However, we also identify opportunities to further strengthen research and management. These include improved integration of key research topics, enhancing the understanding of combined threats, and greater consideration for the role of sub-lethal impacts. Lastly, we stress that meaningful integration of research topics, rather than simple contextualisation, is essential to building the comprehensive and nuanced understanding necessary to inform effective conservation actions. By leveraging the strengths of the field and addressing its remaining weaknesses, there is hope for a future where sharks thrive and contribute to healthy, resilient marine ecosystems.
Trends and Spatial Patterns of Sorghum and Millet Production in the Northern Savannah Agro-climatic Zone of Ghana; A statistical Appraisal
Authors: Ampofo Steve , Aryee Jeffrey N. A. , Annor Thompson , Amekudzi Leonard K. , Jakperik Dioggban
Published: February 2025

Sorghum and Millet are the two most essential kinds of cereal, among many others, grown in the Northern Savannah Climatic Zone (NSAZ) of Ghana. The zone has climatic and ecological conditions which are well- suited to the cultivation of these crops. The high dependence on the two crops as major staples has ensured that they become essential crops whose production results in food security. However, output for these crops has suffered challenges emanating from unpredictable climatic conditions and high cost of inputs. This paper investigates and compares the level of productivity and rates of change for the two crops between the period 1960 and 2015 using the Mann-Kendall (MK) trend analysis. An assessment of the spatial dynamics that identifies areas of high production between the period 1992 and 2015 carried out using ordinary kriging interpolation. Sorghum production is at a much higher level of output with a maximum production level of 387,400 metric tonnes in the year 1997 compared to the maximum of Millet which is at 245,550 metric tonnes in the year 2008. The seasonal analysis reveals a very high increase in output for both crops for the period 1990 to 2010 (season 4) and the lowest season of production from 1970–1980 (season 2). Notably, the North-Eastern part of the Upper East region around the Bawku East, Bawku West and the Garu-Tempane districts are the areas with the highest levels of output which lies between latitudes 10° and 11°N which are the areas much drier. The general levels of productivity reveal that both crops have increased in output over the period of study, but Sorghum has seen a much higher rate of growth than Millet. The increase and decrease in production associated with a complimentary rise and reduction in Yield and Area harvested. The general spatial pattern of high Millet and Sorghum output and Yield varies over the entire Northern Savanah Agro-climatic Zone but with higher results recorded for the higher latitudes.
Boosting silica micro-rod Q factor to 8.28×109 for fully stabilizing a soliton microcomb
Authors: Yao Baicheng , Tan Teng , Pan Tingyang , Duan Bing , Chang Bing , Tang Fang , Huang Yongjun , Yang Yingzhan , Yang Daquan , Huang Shanguo
Published: February 2025

Optical microcavities with strong light confinement serve as a powerful tool for significantly enhancing both optical field intensity and photon lifetimes. They have become a cornerstone for probing fundamental physics and developing advanced devices, being widely used in versatile applications such as precision sensing, nonlinear excitation, and quantum information. To achieve high-efficiency light-matter interactions within an optical microcavity, the quality factor (Q) is one of the most fundamental and important parameters, reflecting the intracavity loss. To date, the actual Q factor of a microcavity remains far below the theoretical limit, as the specific factors affecting the losses inside microcavities are still not well quantified. In this work, based-on a silica whispering-gallery-mode microrod cavity, we quantitatively analyze the loss sources, identifying how radiation/scattering loss, absorption loss, and contaminant loss contribute to the total loss. We find that radiation/scattering loss and contaminant loss are the major factors limiting the total cavity Q in practice. Therefore, by employing two-step laser polishing and heat treatment, we achieve a Q factor of up to 8.28×109, which is high enough for high-performance optical stabilization. Experimentally, within a compact size, we demonstrate a fully stabilized soliton microcomb system utilizing the microcavity with optimized Q, showing phase noise suppressions over 45.2 dB at pump frequency and over 60.6 dB at repetition frequency. This work deepens the understanding of intracavity loss within microcavities and paves the way for practically improving the performance of microcavity photonics.
Correlation stabilized anomalous Hall crystal in bilayer graphene
Authors: Liu Jianpeng , Guo Zhongqing
Published: February 2025

When the charge density is sufficiently low, interacting two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) would undergo a phase transition from homogeneous Fermi liquid to an electronic crystal state, known as Wigner crystal. Besides conventional 2DEG, various topological fermionic excitations may also be realized in 2D materials. For example, ``high-order" Dirac fermions exhibiting nontrivial Berry phases may approximately characterize the low-energy excitations in rhombohedral multilayer graphene (RMG). In this work, we develop a beyond-mean-field theoretical framework to study the interacting ground states and single-particle excitations in slightly charge-doped RMG under vertical electric field. We find that transitions from Fermi liquid to trivial Wigner-crystal states would occur at critical carrier density $\sim 10^{10}\,\textrm{cm}^{-2}$ for all $n$-layer RMG (with $n=2, 3, 4, 5, 6$) which are approximately described by $n$-order Dirac-fermion models. Most saliently, using a more realistic modeling of bilayer graphene including trigonal warping effects, we find that an anomalous Hall crystal state with spontaneous quantized anomalous Hall conductivity would emerge when the carrier density is below $\sim 1\times 10^{11}\,\text{cm}^{-2}$, and it becomes the unique ground state over trivial Wigner crystal when the density is further lower. Counter intuitively, such topological anomalous Hall crystal becomes more stable than the trivial Wigner crystal due to the lower correlation energy gained from dynamical charge fluctuations, which is beyond mean-field description. Our work suggests that slightly carrier-doped bilayer graphene is one of the most promising candidates to realize anomalous Hall crystal. Moreover, the method developed in this work can be readily applied to other interacting 2D systems including moir\'e superlattices.