bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Torture’s Bureaucracy and the “Legitimacy Effect”
Authors: Kotef Hagar , Amir Merav
Published: February 2025

This article tells the story of one small department in the Israeli Ministry of Justice: “The Inspector for Complaints Against General Security Service (GSS) Interrogators” (in Hebrew: Mavtan). Tasked with examining complaints of torture in GSS interrogations, and determining whether they merit launching a criminal investigation, Mavtan has reviewed more than 1,450 complaints to date. None of these, however, had ever led to criminal charges. By analysing this failure, we tell a segment of the story of torture in Israel and, more broadly, of the legal bureaucracy that makes state and colonial violence possible. Despite the failure to produce concrete outcomes, Mavtan is a very industrious unit. We argue that this extensive bureaucratic labor creates a semblance of the rule of law by performing an adherence to hallmarks of good governance, such as transparency and accountability. Paraphrasing Mitchell (1999), we call this semblance the “legitimacy effect,” as it works to produce state legitimacy on two levels: internationally, to cordon off external interventions, and domestically, to defuse the internal tension between torture and democracy. It hence allows torture to emerge as a problem that may be addressed procedurally, without ever contending with the violence and the violations of international law it necessarily entails.
The Arsenal and the Ballot Box: Scoping the Incompatibility of Nuclear Weapons and Democracy
Authors: van Buuren Sterre
Published: February 2025

This paper systematically explores incompatibilities between nuclear weapons and democracy. Based on a procedural definition of democracy, it argues that nuclear weapons’ relationship with democracy is defined both by inherent limitations stemming from the features of nuclear weapons and by assumptions about the requirements of nuclear strategy. It concludes that although ideas on the requirements of nuclear strategy modify the level of compatibility between nuclear weapons policy and democracy, none allow for sufficient compatibility. Excessive power concentration with executives, limitations on advance agreement on nuclear strategy, and secrecy can all be avoided with different assumptions about the requirements of nuclear strategy, in particular nuclear deterrence. However, the destructivity and speed of nuclear wars mean that they inherently cannot be subject to adequate control. Equally, they cannot be subject to control by a sufficiently inclusive demos. Thus, nuclear weapons are incompatible with democracy, but significant democratization of nuclear policy is possible.
The nature of the decentralised autonomous organisation
Authors: Davidson Sinclair
Published: February 2025

This paper examines the concept of decentralised autonomous organisations (DAOs), blockchain-based entities intended to operate without central authority or management hierarchy, through the lens of organisational economics. It compares DAOs with conventional organisational forms and explores whether DAOs represent a novel organisational form. The paper investigates DAOs in the context of the electronic markets hypothesis and applies theories from Demsetz, Jensen and Meckling, and Williamson to understand their potential long-term viability. A key finding is that for DAOs to function as claimed, they must effectively suppress agency costs through smart contracts and internal contestable markets. The paper also highlights the challenges DAOs face in maintaining adaptive integrity and fostering cooperative adaptation. While DAOs show promise in reducing certain transaction and information costs, their long-term viability depends on overcoming significant governance and participation hurdles.
Effects of maternal restraint stress on offspring intestinal microbiota and adipogenesis: insights from in vivo and in vitro studies
Authors: Kondo Takako , Tsunematsu Yuta , Aoki Yu , Miyoshi Noriyuki , Iinuma Mitsuo , Yamada Kumiko
Published: February 2025

The maternal restraint stress animal model is based on a long-term stress paradigm administered to pregnant maternal animals, and these offspring have been shown to exhibit a variety of biochemical defects including obesity. This study aimed to investigate whether maternal restraint stress affects obesity-associated changes in offspring intestinal microbiota and the adipogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs).

Pregnant mice were subjected to restraint stress three times daily from gestational Day12 to delivery. Changes in the composition of the intestinal microbiota of mothers (during pregnancy and lactation) and their lactating offspring exposed to maternal restraint stress were analyzed using next-generation sequencing. Maternal stress altered the maternal microbiota, with reduced Bacteroidetes and increased Firmicutes. While similar trends were observed in offspring, these changes were not statistically significant. However, maternal stress notably reduced microbial diversity in the offspring’s intestinal microbiota. Bone marrow-derived MSCs from offspring at weaning were analyzed for adipogenic transcription factors and hormone receptor expression using quantitative PCR. Maternal stress enhanced the adipogenic phenotype of offspring MSCs, as evidenced by increased expression of adipogenic markers (PPARγ, leptin receptor) and a reduced osteogenic phenotype. In vitro induction further confirmed the higher adipocyte differentiation potential in stressed offspring MSCs compared to controls.

Our results revealed that maternal restraint stress altered the maternal intestinal microbiota, leading to reduced microbial diversity in offspring, predisposing their MSCs toward an adipocyte phenotype. These finding suggest that modulating the intestinal microbiota of stressed pregnant women may improve the susceptibility to obesity in their children.
Identifying right and left impact using the derivative of linear resultant acceleration from a single sacrum-mounted IMU
Authors: Chebbi Aida , Robinson Rachel M. , Donahue Seth R. , Hahn Michael E.
Published: February 2025

This study introduces a novel method for gait analysis using a single inertial measurement unit placed on the sacrum. This method is valid not only on level ground but also on incline and decline conditions. The method leverages the “crackle” function, the third derivative of the sacral resultant acceleration, to identify right and left gait events. This approach is particularly effective in capturing the initial peak in acceleration data during foot impact with the ground, often overlooked by other methods. The study aimed to demonstrate the method’s accuracy in identifying the right- and left-side impacts during level ground, incline, and decline runs across a range of speeds. Additionally, the algorithm was applied in outdoor running scenarios, where it performed very well, further validating its robustness and reliability. The results are compared with other existing methods to highlight the effectiveness of this approach.
Angioplastycombined with intravascular ultrasound vs angioplasty alone in the treatment of peripheral arterial disease
Authors: Sayed Mohamed Hosny , Majeed Mustafa , Mishrah Avilash , Saha Prakash , Thulasidasan Narayanan , Zayed MD Hany
Published: February 2025

Summary: Background: Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) is the conventional imaging method for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) assessment but poses limitations for the estimation of the true vessel diameter, especially in diffuse disease. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is used in coronary interventions, offering detailed insights. While IVUS is proven beneficial in coronary interventions, its role in peripheral arterial interventions is less well established. This meta-analysis aims to compare outcomes of peripheral percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) using angiography only (AO-PTA) versus angiography with IVUS (IVUS-PTA) in PAD. Materials and methods: A systematic review of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from January 1996 to August 2024 was conducted. 13 studies met inclusion criteria, including RCTs, observational, and propensity-matched studies. Data extraction, quality assessment, and analyses were performed following PRISMA guidelines. Primary endpoint: freedom from target lesion reintervention (F-TLR) at 12 months. Secondary endpoints: bailout stenting, technical success, and freedom from major amputation (F-MA). Results: A total of 246,418 patients from 13 studies were included. F-TLR at 12-month follow-up was reported in 51,850 procedures. F-MA was reported in 155,933 procedures. IVUS-PTA showed significantly better F-MA and higher bailout stenting, but inferior F-TLR compared to AO-PTA. Technical success was reported in 555 procedures across 5 studies (0.2%). It trended higher with IVUS-PTA but with no statistical significance. Conclusions: IVUS-PTA is associated with superior F-MA and bailout stenting, but inferior F-TLR compared to AO-PTA. Further well-designed RCTs are needed to better support the use of IVUS’s role PAD.
Temporal Stability and Predictive Validity of the Alternative Model of Personality Disorders Among Older Adults
Authors: Stone-Bury Lisa E. , Segal Daniel L.
Published: February 2025

Abstract: The alternative model of personality disorders (AMPD) contains two diagnostic criteria: personality functioning and pathological personality traits. This study examined the temporal stability and predictive validity of the AMPD’s key constructs among older adults. A sample of older adults ( n = 172) completed AMPD and psychosocial functioning measures 3 months apart. Results indicated mixed evidence of the AMPD’s temporal stability among older adults. Predictive validity was supported, indicating that AMPD may be an adequate prognostic indicator in late life. This study provides further evidence in support of the validity and clinical utility of the AMPD among an older adult population, although some important areas of improvement remain. We discuss the findings in light of the broader PD, AMPD, and older adult personality literature.
Deep Groundwater Might Be a Sustainable Solution to the Water Crisis
Authors: Bertoni Claudia , Ruden Fridtjov , Jordan Elizabeth , Ruden Helene
Published: February 2025

Scientists are finding fresh groundwater buried deep underground, but questions remain about the scale of these resources, how they’re resupplied, and whether they can be used sustainably.
Moderate-to-vigorous and light-intensity aerobic exercise yield similar effects on food reward, appetitive responses, and energy intake in physically inactive adults
Authors: Hsieh Shu-Shih , Bala Angelos , Layzell Kapris , Fatima Qanita , Pushparajah Clarciya , Maguire Rebecca K. , Chen Yung-Chih , Finlayson Graham , Allgrove Judith E.
Published: February 2025

Objective

To examine the effect of acute aerobic exercise at moderate-to-vigorous and light intensity on food reward, appetite sensation, and energy intake (EI) in physically inactive adults.

Methods

Twenty inactive, healthy adults (mean age: 21 ± 3 years) completed two trials (i.e. moderate-to-vigorous and light-intensity exercise) in a randomised, crossover design. Participants performed a 40-min cycling bout at either 50% or 20% peak power output in a counterbalanced order. Before and after exercise bouts, liking and wanting for fat and sweet/savoury categories of food were assessed by the Leeds Food Preference Questionnaire, along with subjective ratings of appetite and state food cravings. EI was evaluated by ad libitum meals following exercise bouts.

Results

Results showed increased implicit wanting for high-fat relative to low-fat foods (p = .04, drm = 0.50) and savoury relative to sweet foods following exercise bouts (p = .04, drm = −0.49) without intensity-specific effects. Exercise bouts also led to increased subjective appetite (p < 0.001, η
2
p = 0.60) and state food cravings (p = 0.001, η
2
p = 0.44) without intensity-specific differences. There was no difference between exercise intensities on absolute EI, whereas relative EI was lower after moderate-to-vigorous exercise relative to light exercise (p < 0.001, drm = −1.56).

Conclusion

Acute aerobic exercise, regardless of intensity, may lead to increased wanting for high-fat relative to low-fat and savoury relative to sweet-tasting foods, as well as enhanced appetite sensation and food cravings in physically inactive adults. Moderate-to-vigorous exercise does not induce additional energy intake relative to light exercise.
Investigation of a pathogenic inversion in UNC13D and comprehensive analysis of chromosomal inversions across diverse datasets
Authors: Bozkurt-Yozgatli Tugce , Lun Ming Yin , Bengtsson Jesse D. , Sezerman Ugur , Chinn Ivan K. , Coban-Akdemir Zeynep , Carvalho Claudia M. B.
Published: February 2025

Inversions are known contributors to the pathogenesis of genetic diseases. Identifying inversions poses significant challenges, making it one of the most demanding structural variants (SVs) to detect and interpret. Recent advancements in sequencing technologies and the development of publicly available SV datasets have substantially enhanced our capability to explore inversions. However, a cross-comparison in those datasets remains unexplored. In this study, we reported a proband with familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis type-3 carrying a splicing variant (c.1389+1G>A) in trans with an inversion present in 0.006345% of individuals in gnomAD (v4.0) that disrupts UNC13D. Based on this result, we investigate the features of potentially pathogenic inversions in gnomAD which revealed 98.9% of them are rare and disrupt 5% of protein-coding genes associated with a phenotype in OMIM. We then conducted a comparative analysis of additional public datasets, including DGV, 1KGP, and two recent studies from the Human Genome Structural Variation Consortium which revealed common and dataset-specific inversion characteristics suggesting methodology detection biases. Next, we investigated the genetic features of inversions disrupting the protein-coding genes. Notably, we found that the majority of protein-coding genes in OMIM disrupted by inversions are associated with autosomal recessive phenotypes supporting the hypothesis that inversions in trans with other variants are potential hidden causes of monogenic diseases. This effort aims to fill the gap in our understanding of the molecular characteristics of inversions with low frequency in the population and highlight the importance of identifying them in rare disease studies.
Neuron-specific isoform of PGC-1α regulates neuronal metabolism and brain aging
Authors: Souder Dylan C. , McGregor Eric R. , Clark Josef P. , Rhoads Timothy W. , Porter Tiaira J. , Eliceiri Kevin W. , Moore Darcie L. , Puglielli Luigi , Anderson Rozalyn M.
Published: February 2025

The brain is a high-energy tissue, and although aging is associated with dysfunctional inflammatory and neuron-specific functional pathways, a direct connection to metabolism is not established. Here, we show that isoforms of mitochondrial regulator PGC-1α are driven from distinct brain cell-type specific promotors, repressed with aging, and integral in coordinating metabolism and growth signaling. Transcriptional and proteomic profiles of cortex from male adult, middle age, and advanced age mice reveal an aging metabolic signature linked to PGC-1α. In primary culture, a neuron-exclusive promoter produces the functionally dominant isoform of PGC-1α. Using growth repression as a challenge, we find that PGC-1α is regulated downstream of GSK3β independently across promoters. Broad cellular metabolic consequences of growth inhibition observed in vitro are mirrored in vivo, including activation of PGC-1α directed programs and suppression of aging pathways. These data place PGC-1α centrally in a growth and metabolism network directly relevant to brain aging.
Dimension reduction in quantum sampling of stochastic processes
Authors: Yang Chengran , Florido-Llinàs Marta , Gu Mile , Elliott Thomas J.
Published: February 2025

Quantum technologies offer a promising route to the efficient sampling and analysis of stochastic processes, with potential applications across the sciences. Such quantum advantages rely on the preparation of a quantum sample state of the stochastic process, which requires a memory system to propagate correlations between the past and future of the process. Here, we introduce a method of lossy quantum dimension reduction that allows this memory to be compressed, not just beyond classical limits, but also beyond current state-of-the-art quantum stochastic sampling approaches. We investigate the trade-off between the saving in memory resources from this compression, and the distortion it introduces. We show that our approach can be highly effective in low distortion compression of both Markovian and strongly non-Markovian processes alike. We further discuss the application of our results to quantum stochastic modelling more broadly.
SPIRIT-CONSORT-TM: a corpus for assessing transparency of clinical trial protocol and results publications
Authors: Jiang Lan , Vorland Colby J , Ying Xiangji , Brown Andrew W , Menke Joe D , Hong Gibong , Lan Mengfei , Mayo-Wilson Evan , Kilicoglu Halil
Published: February 2025

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) can produce valid estimates of the benefits and harms of therapeutic interventions. However, incomplete reporting can undermine the validity of their conclusions. Reporting guidelines, such as SPIRIT for protocols and CONSORT for results, have been developed to improve transparency in RCT publications. In this study, we report a corpus of 200 RCT publications, named SPIRIT-CONSORT-TM, annotated for transparency. We used a comprehensive data model that includes 83 items from SPIRIT and CONSORT checklists for annotation. Inter-annotator agreement was calculated for 30 pairs. The dataset includes 26,613 sentences annotated with checklist items and 4,231 terms. We also trained natural language processing (NLP) models that automatically identify these items in publications. The sentence classification model achieved 0.742 micro-F1 score (0.865 at the article level). The term extraction model yielded 0.545 and 0.663 micro-F1 score in strict and lenient evaluation, respectively. The corpus serves as a benchmark to train models that assist stakeholders of clinical research in maintaining high reporting standards and synthesizing information on study rigor and conduct.
The lateral line and electrosensory systems of two holocephalans
Authors: Solon Laura A. O. , Gauthier Arnault R. G. , Finucci Brittany , Downie Adam T. , Collin Shaun P. , Tibbetts Ian R. , Camilieri-Asch Victoria
Published: February 2025

The mechanosensory (lateral line) and electrosensory systems are two important non-visual sensory modalities, especially in low light environments. Despite their importance, these sensory systems have received little attention in deepwater chondrichthyans. Here, we describe the morphological organisation of the peripheral lateral line and electrosensory systems in two species of chimaeras; the pale ghost shark Hydrolagus bemisi (Chimaeridae) and the Australasia narrow-nosed spookfish Harriotta avia (Rhinochimaeridae), occupying depth ranges of 400–1,100 m and 260–1,278 m, respectively. Using topographic mapping, computed tomography, histology, and scanning electron microscopy, the distribution, abundance, size, and microstructure of lateral line grooves and organs (neuromasts), and ampullary organs (pores, canals, and bulbs) are described. The arrangement of the peripheral sense organs in both these systems may reflect comparable feeding strategies for detecting benthic prey. While the elongated rostrum of Harriotta avia is likely used as a sensory probe, providing spatially-resolved information about minute hydrodynamic disturbances and electric fields of potential prey beneath the animal, the arrangement of sense organs in Hydrolagus bemisi indicates that this species may rely less on electroreception. The study compares the morphology and provides information on the relative importance of two (non-visual) sensory modalities in two demersal holocephalans that remain vulnerable to anthropogenic disturbances.
Methodology of murine lung cancer mimics clinical lung adenocarcinoma progression and metastasis
Authors: Kim Edison Q. , Kim Emily Y. , Knott Eric P. , Wang Yujie , Chen Cheng-Bang , Conejo-Garcia Jose R. , Wangpaichitr Medhi , Lim Diane C.
Published: February 2025

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, of which adenocarcinoma is the most common subtype. Despite this, lung adenocarcinoma and its metastasis are poorly understood, due to difficulties in feasibly recapitulating disease progression and predicting clinical benefits of therapy. We outline a methodology to develop immunogenic orthotopic lung adenocarcinoma mouse models, by injecting cell-specific cre viruses into the lung of a genetically engineered mouse, which mirrors cancer progression defined by the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer. Evaluation of different cre virus/concentrations models demonstrate remarkable consistency in cancer initiation and metastasis, allowing for high throughput, while showing differences in timing and severity, offering greater flexibility when selecting models. Histological and immune profiles reflect clinical observations suggesting similar mechanisms are recapitulated and preliminary data show resultant tumors to be responsive to clinical treatments. We present a clinically relevant, next-generation murine model for studying lung adenocarcinoma.
Enhancement of long-horizon task planning via active and passive modification in large language models
Authors: Hori Kazuki , Suzuki Kanata , Ogata Tetsuya
Published: February 2025

This study proposes a method for generating complex and long-horizon off-line task plans using large language models (LLMs). Although several studies have been conducted in recent years on robot task planning using LLMs, the planning results tend to be simple, consisting of ten or fewer action commands, depending on the task. In the proposed method, the LLM actively collects missing information by asking questions, and the task plan is upgraded with one dialog example. One of the contributions of this study is a Q&A process in which ambiguity judgment is left to the LLM. By sequentially eliminating ambiguities contained in long-horizon tasks through dialogue, our method increases the amount of information included in movement plans. This study aims to further refine action plans obtained from active modification through dialogue by passive modification, and few studies have addressed these issues for long-horizon robot tasks. In our experiments, we define the number of items in the task planning as information for robot task execution, and we demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method through dialogue experiments using a cooking task as the subject. And as a result of the experiment, the amount of information could be increased by the proposed method.
Assessing trends and density of bird species in bottomland hardwood forests and riparian forests using simulation and sample size optimization for surveys
Authors: Stewart David R. , Sesnie Steven E. , Schmidt Paige , Londe David , Butler Matthew J. , Harris Grant M. , Stephens John , Mueller James M.
Published: February 2025

The decline of neotropical migratory birds in North America is closely tied to habitat loss, including the degradation of bottomland hardwood and riparian forests, which provide essential habitats for numerous species. To address this, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conducts bird surveys to monitor restoration efforts and evaluate conservation outcomes. This study assessed avian surveys from three National Wildlife Refuges in Texas and Oklahoma, using simulations, field data, and literature to evaluate current sampling protocols. Our findings revealed that achieving acceptable precision in bird density estimates (coefficient of variation: 0.15, 0.25) often requires more than 200 bird point counts, depending on the species and study area. While data aggregation across sites and years improved precision, it masked local trends critical for refuge-specific management. Imprecise results, particularly for rare species, underscored the need for improved protocols, such as repeat visits within a year, targeted sampling for priority species, and adaptive designs incorporating forest composition and structure data. These adjustments would enhance the precision of multispecies surveys, making them more effective for detecting changes in habitat quality. This study provides actionable recommendations to support service-wide efforts in strategic, data-driven monitoring and long-term conservation planning for neotropical migratory birds.
In vivo transplantation of mammalian vascular organoids onto the chick chorioallantoic membrane reveals the formation of a hierarchical vascular network
Authors: Kowalski William J. , Vatti Shravani , Sakamoto Tyler , Li Wenling , Odutola Sarah Rose , Liu Chengyu , Chen Guibin , Boehm Manfred , Mukouyama Yoh-suke
Published: February 2025

The dynamic remodeling of the nascent vascular network into a mature hierarchy is essential for embryo survival. Cell behaviors and signaling mechanisms are often investigated with animal models and perfused microchannels, giving insights into this process. To support these studies and enrich our understanding, we demonstrate a complementary approach using vascular organoids. Organoids initially form a primitive endothelial plexus lined with NG2+/PDGFRβ+ mural cell progenitors containing immature pericytes, but there is no formation of large-diameter vessels covered with αSMA+ cells containing immature vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMCs). After transplantation to the chick chorioallantoic membrane, the network reorganizes into a branched architecture with large-diameter vessels covered by αSMA+ cells. We additionally show that blood flow from the host circulation perfuses the organoid. Compared with the developing skin vasculature in mouse embryos, organoids successfully recapitulate vascular morphogenesis, both in vitro and after transplantation. The model described here presents a further approach to enhance the study of vascular remodeling.
A prospective study to investigate circadian rhythms as health indicator in women’s aging
Authors: Malhan Deeksha , Yalçin Müge , Liedtke Susanne , Grötsch Rayka , Enzmann Christina , Rau Monika , Relógio Angela
Published: February 2025

The circadian clock plays a crucial role in regulating the timing of numerous physiological processes. Its dysregulation has severe implications for the organism’s homeostasis and is among the main characteristics of aging. As women age and transition through menopause, disruptions in circadian rhythms may occur, leading to symptoms such as insomnia, mood changes, or altered energy levels. In this prospective non-randomized cohort study, we seek to characterize and better understand circadian clock alterations in women across various stages of their reproductive cycle, both with and without daily routine alterations (e.g., specific diet, light exposure). Understanding the intricate relationship between circadian rhythms and female health during the aging process is essential for developing targeted interventions to mitigate symptoms and promote overall well-being in menopausal women. Findings from this study will be used to devise tailored circadian rhythm assessments and interventions for women, facilitating the alleviation of menopause-related symptoms and promoting healthy aging.
Competition for the nascent leading strand shapes the requirements for PCNA loading in the replisome
Authors: Fletcher Emma E , Jones Morgan L , Yeeles Joseph T P
Published: February 2025

During DNA replication, the DNA polymerases Pol δ and Pol ε utilise the ring-shaped sliding clamp PCNA to enhance their processivity. PCNA loading onto DNA is accomplished by the clamp loaders RFC and Ctf18-RFC, which function primarily on the lagging and the leading strand, respectively. RFC activity is essential for lagging-strand replication by Pol δ, but it is unclear why Ctf18-RFC is required for leading-strand PCNA loading and why RFC cannot fulfil this function. Here, we show that RFC cannot load PCNA once Pol ε has been incorporated into the budding yeast replisome and commenced leading-strand synthesis, and this state is maintained during replisome progression. By contrast, we find that Ctf18-RFC is uniquely equipped to load PCNA onto the leading strand and show that this activity requires a direct interaction between Ctf18 and the CMG (Cdc45-MCM-GINS) helicase. Our work uncovers a mechanistic basis for why replisomes require a dedicated leading-strand clamp loader.
Esterase-activated prodrug against pancreatic cancer by imaging-guided photodynamic immunotherapy
Authors: Yang Kaini , Sha Qingyang , Li Xinsheng , Hua Jianli , Chen Wei
Published: February 2025

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has received much attention as a promising modality for tumor treatment. However, weak of targeting of conventional photosensitisers and the metastasis of malignant tumors have severely limited...
Functional gel materials for next-generation electrochromic devices and applications
Authors: Wang Yuyang , Sun Xiaoyan , Liu Quanbing , Yu Guihua
Published: February 2025

This review underscores the essential role of gel materials in electrochromic technology, offering a comprehensive analysis of gelation chemistry and valuable insights into the practical deployment of gel-based electrochromic devices.
Sorption kinetics of metallic and organic contaminants on micro- and nanoplastics: remarkable dependence of the intraparticulate contaminant diffusion coefficient on the particle size and potential role of polymer crystallinity
Authors: Town Raewyn M. , van Leeuwen Herman P. , Duval Jérôme F. L.
Published: February 2025

We developed a mechanistic diffusion model to describe the sorption kinetics of metallic and organic contaminants on nano- and micro-plastics.
All-Electrical Layer-Spintronics in Altermagnetic Bilayer
Authors: Peng Rui , Yang Jin , Hu Lin , Ong Wee Liat , Ho Pin , Lau Chit Siong , Liu Junwei , Ang Yee Sin
Published: February 2025

Electrical manipulation of spin-polarized current is highly desirable yet tremendously challenging in developing ultracompact spintronic device technology. Here we propose a scheme to realize the all-electrical manipulation of spin-polarized current...
Mechanistic Investigation on Cellular Internalization Triggering Structure-Induced Conformational Modulation of Boron-Nitrogen Luminogens
Authors: Parui Retwik , Roy Hirakjyoti , Meher Niranjan , Ghosh Siddhartha Sankar , Iyer Parameswar K.
Published: February 2025

Exploring the effects of electron donor (D) and acceptor (A) functional groups in tuning the condensed state properties has been challenging yet efficient approach to reveal promising materials for cutting-edge...
Synergistic Impacts on Properties, Stability, and Applications of MXenes via Polymer Integration
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Zain Mehdi Syed Muhammad , Taunk Manish , Kumar Sanjeev , Aherwar Amit , Singh Sudhanshu , Singh Tej
Published: February 2025

MXenes are known for their exceptionally high electrical conductivity, mechanical resilience, and versatile surface chemistry. However, these tend to oxidize under ambient conditions, posing a major hurdle in their performance...
Theoretical Evaluation of Na2MgCl4 Double Chlorite as an Electrolyte for All-Solid-State Sodium Ion Batteries
Authors: Zulueta Yohandys A. , Fernandez Gamboa Jose Ramon , Villar Goris Narciso Antonio , My-Phuong Pham-Ho , Nguyen Minh T.
Published: February 2025

The quest for effective, even exceptional, solid-state electrolytes for metal ion batteries have to address two primary challenges: overcoming the interfacial resistance between the solid-state electrolyte and the electrodes, and...
Simultaneous Integration of Poly(dimethylsiloxane) Elastomer in Polymer Donor and Dimer Acceptor Enables Strain-Induced Power Enhancement in Intrinsically-Stretchable Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Lee Jin-Woo , Nguyen Trieu Hoang-Quan , Kang Won Jung , Seo Soodeok , Lee Seungbok , Lee Seungjin , Choi Jaeyoung , Park Jimin , Lee Jung-Yong , Kim Taek-Soo , Kim Bumjoon
Published: February 2025

Intrinsically-stretchable organic solar cells (IS-OSCs) are an emerging class of wearable power sources owing to their ability to stretch in multiple directions. However, their current stretchability remains insufficient to meet...
Combined crystallographic study of king scallop (Pecten maximus) shells using SEM, EBSD and Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Guichaoua Lise , Reznikov Natalie , Stewart Bryce D. , Kroger Roland , Gauvin Raynald
Published: February 2025

The shells of Pecten maximus (king scallop) are composed primarily of polycrystalline calcitic calcium carbonate, with a crucial aragonitic prismatic myostracum layer that facilitates soft tissue attachment and contributes to...
Visible-light-Induced Photoredox-Catalyzed Dearomative Dicarboxylation of Arenes with Formate and CO2
Authors: Li Jiayuan , Zhang Zeyu , Yi Yaping , Xi Chanjuan
Published: February 2025

Visible-light-induced photoredox-catalyzed dearomative dicarboxylation of polycyclic arenes and heteroarenes with formate and CO2 has been achieved. This reaction could be realized under mild conditions to gain dearomative dicarboxylative products with...
Electronic structure engineering of heterogeneous ceria-incorporated Pt/C as an efficient catalyst for boosting DMFCs performance
Authors: Wan Ziqi , Ye Jianqi , Zhang Jinyuan , Gao Jie , Liu Lei , Wen Dan , Gao Wei
Published: February 2025

The commercial development of direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) is hindered by the slow kinetics of both methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) for Pt-based electrocatalysts. Modulating...
The assembly of the most rotationally supported disc galaxies in the TNG100 simulations
Authors: Rodríguez Silvio , Cristiani Valeria A. , Sales Laura V. , Abadi Mario G.
Published: February 2025

Disc-dominated galaxies can be difficult to accommodate in a hierarchical formation scenario such as Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM), where mergers are an important growth mechanism. However, observational evidence indicates that these galaxies are common in the Universe. We seek to characterise the conditions that lead to the formation of disc-dominated galaxies within ΛCDM. We used dynamical decomposition of the stellar particles in all galaxies with stellar mass M_*= M_⊙ within the cosmological hydrodynamical simulation Illustris TNG100. We selected a sample of 43 mostly-disc galaxies that have less than ∼ 10% of their mass in a bulge component. For comparison, we also studied two additional stellar-mass matched samples: 43 intermediate galaxies having ∼ 30% of their stellar mass in the bulge and 43 with a purely spheroidal-like morphology. We find that the selection purely based on stellar dynamics is able to reproduce the expected stellar population trends of different morphological types, with higher star-formation rates and younger stars in disc-dominated galaxies. Halo spin seems to play no role in the morphology of the galaxies, in agreement with previous works. At a fixed M_*, our mostly-disc and intermediate samples form in dark matter haloes that are two to ten times less massive than the spheroidal sample, highlighting a higher efficiency in disc galaxies to retain and condensate their baryons. On average, mergers are less prevalent in the buildup of discs than in spheroidal galaxies, but there is a large scatter, including the existence of mostly-disc galaxies, with $15%-30%$ of their stars coming from accreted origin. Discs start to form early on, settling their low vertical velocity dispersion as early as $9-10$ Gyr ago, although the dominance of the disc over the spheroid was established more recently ($3-4$ Gyr lookback time). The most rotationally supported discs form in haloes with the lowest virial mass in the sample and the best aligned distribution of angular momentum in the gas.
Sperm quality profile of Bali bull as local Indonesian cattle in liquid storage in different diluents with the addition of synthetic antioxidants
Authors: Ducha Nur , Isnawati Isnawati , Muhaimin Fitriari Izzatunnisa , Prastyaningtias Sisca Desi , Nafis Fardha Ad Durun , Fitri Rochmatul
Published: February 2025

Bali cattle are one of Indonesia’s local cattle, which require efforts to preserve genetic material from superior males by storing sperm at low temperatures so that it does not become extinct and can be implemented for artificial insemination. The simplest storage method is liquid storage, at 4-5°C. This study aimed to examine the quality profile of Bali bull sperm during storage at 4-5°C in CEP diluent with and without synthetic antioxidants (alpha-tocopherol, glutathione) and to compare it with the diluent media usually used by Indonesian Artificial Insemination centers for freezing bovine semen, namely tris aminomethane egg yolk. The research used 3 Balinese bull ejaculates, each replicated 3 times. Fresh semen was collected using an artificial vagina. The sperm quality profile included motility, viability, and membrane integrity a. Sperm motility was observed using the CASA IVOS 2 tool. Sperm viability was observed using the eosin nigrosine staining method under a microscope with 200 magnification. Membrane integrity was observed utilizing the HOST test (Hypo Osmotic Swelling Test). The results showed that the percentage of motility from the first day to the last day of storage was highest in CEP diluent with the addition of alpha-tocopherol and glutathione. The observations of membrane viability and integrity showed the highest percentage of CEP diluent with the addition of alpha-tocopherol from the first to the last day of storage. The research results show that Bali cattle sperm can be stored at low temperatures, especially in CEP diluent, with the addition of antioxidants.
Distribution and types of negative human-orangutan interactions in Kalimantan based on news articles
Authors: Desantoro Tri Giyat , Prasetyo Lilik Budi , Lubis Muhammad Irfansyah , Fandy Muhammad
Published: February 2025

Interaction between humans and orangutans can hurt both parties. Crop losses and heightened fear and anxiety among local communities due to orangutan presence often contribute to negative perceptions, which may influence actions towards these primates. Additionally, limited public awareness regarding the risks of keeping orangutans as pets can elevate the potential for zoonotic disease transmission. Habitat loss caused by deforestation and the conversion of forests to agricultural or anthropogenic-used land exacerbates the risk of human-orangutan encounters in Kalimantan. Consequently, understanding these interactions’ trends and spatial distribution is essential for devising strategic interventions to mitigate the conflict. Using web scraping methods, we collected article data from various Indonesian news sources from 2011 to 2024. 172 human and orangutan negative interactions were documented and categorized into six types: orangutan sightings, attacks, crop damage/raiding, hunting, capture, and orangutan rearing. These interactions occurred across 125 villages from 28 districts/cities in Kalimantan. Most incidents were reported in settlement areas (35%) and plantations (45%). Orangutans have also been sighted in public places, such as airports and harbors, over the past 5 years. Given the broad distribution of these interactions, coordinated efforts among multiple stakeholders are crucial for mitigating and managing human-orangutan conflicts as part of broader Bornean orangutan conservation initiatives.
Corporate social responsibility investment and coordination in asymmetric competitive supply chains with horizontal interactions
Authors: Tan Qi , Yao Fengmin , Li Tao , Feng Lipan
Published: February 2025

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has received extensive attention in the automobile industry. This study, following the operational features of the automobile industry, develops a model of two competing supply chains to examine the effects of horizontal interactions, asymmetric base demand share status, and product substitution on the efficiency of manufacturer CSR and retailer CSR. Most studies suggest that CSR is detrimental to the CSR performer but beneficial to the channel partner who does not perform CSR. However, our analysis demonstrates that whether CSR benefits the CSR performer and the channel partner is related to the horizontal interactions of the rival channel’s CSR strategy, disparities in base market share status, and the degree of competition. Moreover, the widely adopted revenue-sharing contract cannot fully coordinate the CSR conflict, while our proposed subsidy strategy works well. Additionally, our work shows that consumer utility and social welfare as a whole are higher under retailer CSR than under manufacturer CSR. Most notably, this study partially explains why some larger firms in practice frequently engage in CSR while some smaller ones do not, as well as why some larger firms undertake CSR even though it might be disadvantageous for them.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship: A Colour Economy Glance
Authors: Estrada Salvador , Montalván-Burbano Néstor , Cabrera-Flores Mayer , León-Pozo Alicia , Rueda-Prieto John Alexander
Published: February 2025

This article introduces the topic of the Colour Economy as a set of new economic paradigms that seek to respond to global challenges such as sustainability, technological transformation and social inclusion. It is a first comprehensive study that analyses eight colour economies, namely blue, yellow, orange, red, green, silver, purple, and grey with a focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. The researchers started from a bibliographic search that yielded varied results in terms of the volume of literature produced on the colour palette and opted for an exploratory and critical study of the concepts and relationships with innovation and entrepreneurship. We found that each colour economy addresses specific issues but converges on themes such as sustainability, technological transformation and social equity. Our review revealed that colour economies are not mere theoretical constructs but practical frameworks that focus on the sustainable use of marine resources, in the case of the Blue Economy, the Yellow Economy emphasizes technological efficiency, while the Orange Economy emphasizes creative and cultural industries, the Red Economy, on the other hand, comes from the evolution of consumption towards sustainable practices, and in the Green Economy, the priority is on environmental sustainability, while the Silver Economy focuses on the challenges of an aging population, as opposed to the Purple Economy, which promotes cultural and social diversity, and the Grey economy is embedded in the informal sector. In terms of their relationship to innovation and entrepreneurship, each colour economy presents unique paths to innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities. In all economies of colour, cross-sector collaboration between government, business and academia is key to driving innovation. Our study presents a novel framework for analysing economic transformation through the lens of the colour economy where the colour family does not compete for theoretical or practical supremacy but rather opts for a complementary effect to address the enormous global challenges we face. Thus, the framework developed offers important and valuable insights for policy makers, businessmen and entrepreneurs as well as scholars to develop a holistic and integrated approach to economic development.
The Challenges of Artificial Intelligence and Intellectual Property Rights: An Exploration of the Mexican and Costa Rican Contexts
Authors: Gerardo López Carlos , Serrano-Santoyo Arturo , Salazar Silvia
Published: February 2025

The vertiginous advance of the digital economy at a global level represents significant challenges for humans from the technological, social, and cultural perspectives, especially the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies such as Neurotechnology, the Metaverse, and Blockchain, to mention some of the most important ones. Intellectual property (IP) rights acquire relevance in terms of the work, creativity, inventiveness, and authorship of products and services available to human beings. This paper aims to identify challenges to the use and applications of Artificial Intelligence concerning moral, ethical, and economic rights that emerge from the interactions between the physical and digital worlds. We argue in this contribution that, on the one hand, the nature and implications of AI require in-depth analysis and discussion; on the other hand, the possible associated repercussions on IP rights are minimized, ignored, and, in most cases, are unknown. As a result of our study, we identified the impacts, benefits, and risks of implementing AI applications in Mexico and Costa Rica.
Innovation and Technology in Urban Transformation: An Analysis of Frameworks, Stakeholders, and Key Performance Indicators for the Development of Smart Cities
Authors: González Rubio Isaura , Rolón Julio C. , López-Leyva Santos , Bermúdez Juan Carlos
Published: February 2025

Urban development has become increasingly complex due to rapid population growth and the demand for sustainable practices. Implementing smart city solutions offers a potential approach to address these challenges. This study advances the understanding of the smart city concept, its essential elements, and its specific applicability within the Mexican context. We define smart cities by distinguishing them from sustainable cities, and We explore the most common frameworks created by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) and the International Standardization Organization (ISO). We review the Mexican standards (NMX) for smart cities. Additionally, we analyze different smart city approaches, and the roles of stakeholders involved in planning and implementing these initiatives. Based on this analysis, we outline adaptable frameworks for potential application in Mexican cities, identifying priority areas and criteria for selecting and prioritizing key performance indicators (KPIs) like technology use, energy efficiency, and social inclusion. This work lays a preliminary foundation for practical approaches to smart city development, offering a framework that supports informed decision-making and structured evaluation of progress toward urban intelligence.