bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loss of VSTM2A promotes adipocyte hypertrophy and disrupts metabolic homeostasis
Authors: Al Dow Manal , Secco Blandine , Mouchiroud Mathilde , Rochette Marianne , Gilio Gustavo R. , Massicard Mickael , Hardy Marilou , Gélinas Yves , Festuccia William T. , Morissette Mathieu C. , Manem Venkata S. K. , Laplante Mathieu
Published: February 2025

Objective

Adipose tissue expands through hyperplasia and hypertrophy to store excess lipids, a process that is essential for the maintenance of metabolic homeostasis. The mechanisms regulating adipocyte recruitment from progenitors remain unclear. We have previously identified V‐set and transmembrane domain‐containing protein 2A (VSTM2A) as a factor promoting fat cell development in vitro. Whether VSTM2A impacts adipose tissue and systemic metabolism in vivo is still unknown.

Methods

We generated VSTM2A knockout mice (Vstm2a−/−) using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR‐associated protein 9 (Cas9) and fed them either a chow or high‐fat diet. These mice were evaluated for body weight, adiposity, blood parameters, and glucose homeostasis.

Results

Vstm2a−/− mice were viable and showed no body weight differences. Although adipose mass was similar, Vstm2a−/− mice had larger adipocytes, an effect linked to inflammation, ectopic lipid deposition, and impaired glucose and lipid metabolism. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that VSTM2A loss affects the expression of several genes in adipose tissue, including some related to the lysosome. Interestingly, acute lysosomal inhibition early in life is sufficient to cause adipocyte hypertrophy in adults.

Conclusions

VSTM2A is dispensable for adipose tissue formation, but its loss causes adipocyte hypertrophy and impairs glucose and lipid homeostasis. Our study also underscores a critical role of the lysosome in initiating adipogenesis.
The Political Economy of China's Special Economic Zones and Adaptability of Developmental State Model of Industrialisation in Africa: Evidence From Nigeria
Authors: Kalu Kenneth , Aniche Ernest Toochi
Published: February 2025

This study examines the structure and operations of China's Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Nigeria and evaluates the zones' potential as catalysts for Nigeria's industrialisation. By using mixed qualitative methods, the result from fieldwork shows that SEZs are not likely to become the springboard for Nigeria's industrialisation. The study identifies the major challenges hindering the success of the SEZs in Africa and Nigeria, particularly which include the lack of adequate infrastructure and the inability of the state to formulate and effectively implement rules that would attract investors to the zones, engender technology transfers and generate other benefits for the local economy. The article concludes that even as there are lapses on the part of the Chinese collaborators concerning the speed of construction work at the zones, the performance of the Nigerian state reflects significant weaknesses. These weaknesses mirror the often‐cited dysfunctionalities in the political economy of Nigeria and other African states, where these aforementioned challenges weaken state capacities to initiate and implement development programmes. The paper suggests policy recommendations on how to make the SEZs effective instruments of industrialisation and economic growth, a fundamental aspect of which emphasises engendering a developmental state necessary for creating the conditions for growth.
Movie‐ and mobile‐therapy without therapist involvment for patients with obsessive–compulsive disorder: Protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Imai Hissei , Luo Yan , Funada Satoshi , Hashimoto Takeshi , Matsuishi Kunitaka , Takamatsu Toko , Yoshihara Yasuo , Hiraoka Yayoi , Mizui Yasutaka , Hayasaka Yu , Takeshima Nozomi , Fukushima Haruko , Matsuda Kohei , Hashimoto Takashi , Furukawa Toshi A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Self‐help programs without therapist involvement for obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) are promising, but the high dropout rate is a significant issue. Our software, which incorporates entertainment elements, showed a completion rate of over 80% in a pre–post comparison study, with superior effectiveness. This is the protocol for a study that aims to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a video‐based mobile application for OCD treatment through a randomized controlled trial.

Methods

This study is designed as a randomized controlled trial with two parallel group comparison, with assessors blinded to group allocation. The study will include outpatients aged 18 years or older diagnosed with OCD. The intervention group will receive a mobile‐device‐based intervention using an application grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy. The treatment period will be 8 weeks, during which 21 sessions will be conducted. Participants not allocated to the intervention group will be assigned to a waitlist control group for 8 weeks. The primary outcome for effectiveness will be the comparison of the Yale–Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale. As the primary outcome for tolerability, participants in the intervention group who complete 80% or more of the sessions by the 8‐week point will be defined as treatment completers, and the proportion of completers will be calculated. Assuming a 10% attrition rate, a total of 88 participants will be needed.

Results

Results will be presented according to the protocol.

Conclusions

If this study demonstrates that OCD can be improved through mobile‐based self‐help treatment without therapist involvement, it will become an important treatment option for patients.
Toll‐like receptor expression during inflammatory processes in human diseases
Authors: Dhakad Prashant K. , Mishra Raghav , Mishra Isha
Published: February 2025

Multi‐cellular organisms, including humans, have evolved immune systems as defense mechanisms against pathogens. The immune system employs the Toll‐like receptor (TLR) receptor family as its primary defensive mechanism against infections. Their capacity to identify both foreign microbes and endogenous substances renders them crucial for controlling immune responses. This article aims to provide an overview of the structure, functions, properties and signaling mechanisms of TLRs. Additionally, it explores the involvement of TLRs in various disorders and discusses therapeutic strategies targeting TLR signaling pathways. TLRs are widely present in immune and non‐immune cells and are dynamically regulated based on specific stimuli, such as pathogens or damaged host cells. Their activation triggers signaling cascades that lead to the production of type 1 interferons and proinflammatory cytokines. However, excessive TLR activation disrupts immune homeostasis and contributes to inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Innovative TLR signaling pathway antagonists and inhibitors have been developed to combat these conditions. TLRs are central to the immune system's ability to combat infections and maintain natural defenses. A novel challenge in the treatment of numerous disorders is the preservation of immune homeostasis while targeting TLR signaling.
Preoperative Planning and Experimental Validation for Robot‐Assisted Minimally Invasive Surgery Based on a Clinical Evaluation System
Authors: Gao Lei , Xing Yuan , Bian Yuan , Zhao Jianchang , Liu Xingchi , Wang Honglei
Published: February 2025

Background

Robot‐assisted minimally invasive surgery has effectively addressed the challenges faced by traditional minimally invasive surgery. Well‐designed preoperative planning is crucial for robot‐assisted minimally invasive surgery.

Methods

This paper proposes a preoperative planning method based on a clinical evaluation system. The particle swarm optimisation algorithm and the evaluation indices including accessibility, visibility, operability, and hand‐eye coordination are adopted.

Results

The simulation validation and the experimental verification were conducted to compare the pre‐operative planning scheme and the clinical scheme, taking the oesophageal hiatal hernia repair as an example. The preoperative planning scheme demonstrated superior accessibility and hand‐eye coordination, achieving shorter surgical time and reduced task load.

Conclusion

The proposed preoperative planning method is feasible and effective through simulation and experimentation. This method has potential applications in various surgical robot systems and procedures, which can provide surgical guidance for surgeons in different departments.
Risk Factors and Impacts of Unplanned Out‐of‐Hospital Births in an Urban Setting
Authors: Daichang Cathy , Chu Sidney , Nguyen Helen N. , Madubuko Adaora
Published: February 2025

Background

Prior studies have shown that unplanned out‐of‐hospital births (UOHB) are associated with certain maternal risk factors, increased neonatal mortality and poor neonatal outcomes.

Objectives

To determine the factors that influence the incidence and effects of newborn outcome associated with UOHB in an urban setting.

Methods

This case‐control study was conducted at University Hospital in Newark, New Jersey using retroactively sampled patient data from January 2017 to December 2022. After quality control, 66 unplanned out‐of‐hospital live singleton births and 72 in‐hospital live singleton births were stratified into maternal and neonatal cases and studied independently. Standard statistical tests, odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were applied in comparing the in‐hospital birth groups with the UOHB groups.

Results

In the maternal analysis, Black/African American race (OR = 4.29, 95% CI 2.10, 8.74), English language (OR = 4.13, 95% CI 1.99, 8.59), substance use history (OR = 7.98, 95% CI 2.22, 28.7), having a primary care provider on file (OR = 2.74, 95% CI 1.36, 5.53), absent prenatal care (OR = 5.44, 95% CI 1.71, 17.3) were significantly associated with UOHB. In the newborn analysis, low‐birth‐weight (OR = 5.90, 95% CI 1.87, 18.6), preterm birth (OR = 4.84, 95% CI 1.67, 14.1), hypoglycemia (OR = 38.0, 95% CI 4.95, 291), hypothermia (OR = 35.5, 95% CI 4.62, 272) and bradycardia (OR = 15.58, 95% CI 0.86, 282) were significantly associated with UOHB.

Conclusions

Newborns of UOHB are more likely to be affected by low‐birth‐weight, preterm birth, hypoglycemia, hypothermia and bradycardia. Consistent with findings from previous studies, in an urban setting, substance use history and absent prenatal care are among the most important predictors for UOHB.
Optimization of a LEO‐PNT Constellation: Design Considerations and Open Challenges
Authors: Çelikbilek Kaan , Simona Lohan Elena , Praks Jaan
Published: February 2025

As the satellite launch and manufacturing costs have become affordable, the industrial and academic interest in low‐Earth orbit (LEO) satellites has increased in recent years. With this interest, the concept of LEO‐based positioning, navigation, and timing (LEO‐PNT) has also gained popularity as a complementary and/or standalone system in addition to the already existing Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). This article proposes a LEO constellation optimization methodology from the perspective of a LEO‐PNT design, identifies and discusses the state‐of‐art of the LEO satellite constellation optimization approaches, introduces relevant performance‐ and feasibility‐related metrics and parameters, and addresses key concepts and trade‐offs that must be considered for any LEO‐PNT constellation design. In addition, a case study for a LEO‐PNT constellation optimization is presented, where we showcase the discussed trade‐offs. We present optimization results obtained with the adaptive weighting algorithm “ADaW” applied to the Pareto‐optimization algorithm nondominated sorting genetic algorithm III (“NSGA‐III”). A detailed performance analysis is done for six relevant scenarios with varying receiver location properties, namely, by considering indoor/outdoor, rural/urban and line of sight/non–line of sight (NLOS) cases.
Modeling Techniques for Light Distribution of White LEDs
Authors: Kashiwao Tomoaki , Ikeda Kenji , Tsumori Masaru , Bando Kanji
Published: February 2025

This study presents a method to approximate the light distribution (directivity) of light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) based on a Gaussian distribution and an estimation technique for the total luminous flux of white LEDs. The light distribution, characterized by the half‐power angle, is approximated using a Gaussian distribution with a similar shape. The total luminous flux is estimated from the obtained approximations of the light distribution and luminous intensity provided by the specification sheets of the white LEDs. © 2025 The Author(s). IEEJ Transactions on Electrical and Electronic Engineering published by Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Argulus japonicus: A Concerning Health Issue for Channa punctata in Southwestern Bangladesh
Authors: Jahan Fatema , Rahman Md. Hamidur , Ahammad Basir , Khandaker Mohammed , Rahman Md. Zobayer , Mia Rasel , Rayhan Nafis , Akter Shaila , Bari Sayed Mashequl , Majumdar Bhaskar Chandra
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The prevalence and impact of the branchiuran copepod parasite Argulus japonicus on the snakehead fish Channa punctata were investigated in the southwestern region of Bangladesh.

Methods

Parasitic infestation was examined to determine parasitological indexes including prevalence (%), mean intensity (MI), abundance (A), and index of infestation (IOI). Haematological parameters were also determined, along with morphological identification, clinical signs, and size grading of A. japonicus. In addition, histological alterations in the liver, kidneys, gills, and skin of C. punctata were examined.

Results

Among 140 C. punctata individuals, 85 were found to be infested with a total of 245 A. japonicus parasites. Most of the parasites were located on the gill surfaces, around the eyes, and on the external parts of the body. The main physical features of A. japonicus were identified and documented during the observations. The haematological parameters showed variation across different experimental sites, and several clinical signs of infestation were observed. Four treatment methods for the elimination of A. japonicus were tested. Heat treatment (T3) was found to be the most effective method of the four.

Conclusion

This study highlights the serious health problems caused by A. japonicus infestation in C. punctata in southwestern Bangladesh.
Communication behavior of the snow leopard (Panthera uncia): understanding marking-behavior patterns to optimize camera-trapping studies
Authors: Krofel Miha , Oliveira Teresa , Rovero Francesco , Groff Claudio , Augugliaro Claudio , Oberosler Valentina , Allen Maximilian L.
Published: February 2025

Many carnivores rely on marking behavior for intraspecific communication with potential mates and competitors, using scent and visual markings to advertise their use of a territory and allow potential mates to assess their quality. However, obtaining data on communication behaviors of rare and elusive animals can be challenging. To better understand marking behavior of snow leopard (Panthera uncia), we combined camera-trapping, snow-tracking and transect counts of scrapes in the Altai Mountains, Mongolia, and measured frequencies of communication behaviors in both space and time. Next, we explored if this information could be used to improve the efficiency of snow leopard population monitoring through camera-trapping. Using the combination of all three methods, we detected seven communication behaviors. Most visits at marking sites began with sniffing (recorded at 56.4% visits) before progressing to other behaviors. Urine spraying (17.7% of visits) and scraping (16.8%) were exhibited at significantly more visits than other communication behaviors (flehmen, head/body rubbing, fecal deposition, claw marking). According to the snow-tracking data conducted in optimal habitats, scraping was the most frequent marking behavior with 12.8 scrapes/km, followed by urine marking with 10.5 marks/km. Along 32 transects, we recorded a mean of 8.0 cumulative scrapes/km, with highest marking rates recorded in gorges, which we recommend as prime habitats for deploying camera-traps. Finally, our results suggest that the number of scrapes observed at potential camera-trapping sites represents a good predictor of snow leopard visitation rate. Therefore, this parameter can be used when choosing camera-trapping locations to increase the efficiency of monitoring programs.
New results for the Cahn-Hilliard equation with non-degenerate mobility: well-posedness and longtime behavior
Authors: Conti Monica , Galimberti Pietro , Gatti Stefania , Giorgini Andrea
Published: February 2025

We study the Cahn-Hilliard equation with non-degenerate concentration-dependent mobility and logarithmic potential in two dimensions. We show that any weak solution is unique, exhibits propagation of uniform-in-time regularity, and stabilizes towards an equilibrium state of the Ginzburg-Landau free energy for large times. These results improve the state of the art dating back to a work by Barrett and Blowey. Our analysis relies on the combination of enhanced energy estimates, elliptic regularity theory and tools in critical Sobolev spaces.
The volume of the boundary of a Sobolev (p, q)-extension domain II
Authors: Koskela Pekka , Mishra Riddhi
Published: February 2025

We show that the volume of the boundary of a bounded Sobolev (p, q)-extension domain is zero when

$$1\le q<p< \frac{qn}{(n-q)}.$$

1
≤
q
<
p
<

qn

(
n
-
q
)

.
On holomorphy and non-vanishing of Artin L-functions
Authors: Gun Sanoli , Hazra Suhita , Sahu Dhananjaya
Published: February 2025

In this article, we investigate holomorphy and non vanishing of Artin L-functions for

$$\Re (s) > 1/2$$

ℜ
(
s
)
>
1
/
2

. First, we show that Artin L-functions of a solvable Galois extension

$$\textrm{K}/\textrm{F}$$

K
/
F

with Galois group G are holomorphic at a point

$$s_0$$

s
0

by comparing the order of vanishing of

$$\zeta _\textrm{K}(s)$$

ζ
K

(
s
)

with

$$\zeta _{\textrm{K}^{G^{(2)}}}(s)$$

ζ

K

G

(
2
)

(
s
)

, where

$$G^{(2)}$$

G

(
2
)

is the second commutator subgroup of G. This extends a result of Foote and Kumar Murty. Finally, we derive a criterion which is equivalent to the assertion that all the poles (except for a possible pole at

$$s=1$$

s
=
1

) and non-trivial zeros of Artin L-functions necessarily lie on the line

$$\Re (s) = 1/2$$

ℜ
(
s
)
=
1
/
2

.
Pure Shape Dynamics, Self-Subsisting Structures, and the Nature of Time
Authors: Vassallo Antonio , Naranjo Pedro
Published: February 2025

The paper discusses the possible implications of the relational framework of Pure Shape Dynamics for the metaphysics of time. The starting point of the analysis is an interpretation of shapes in ontic structural realist terms, which gives rise to the notion of self-subsisting structure. The relational version of a Newtonian-particle toy model is introduced and discussed as a concrete example.
Accounting choice in measurement and comparability: an examination of the effect of the fair value option
Authors: Fontes Joana C. , Panaretou Argyro , Shakespeare Catherine
Published: February 2025

The choice between historical cost and fair value measurement is one of the most debated issues among accounting academics and practitioners. We use the election of the fair value option (FVO) to study the effects of entities’ measurement choices on accounting comparability. The FVO enables entities to use different measurement bases for similar assets and liabilities, raising questions about whether the FVO compromises or enhances comparability. Using a sample of US banks, we find that FVO elections increase comparability both across FVO electing banks and between FVO electing banks and banks that never elect the FVO but only if the FVO elections comply with the intent of the standard setters to remedy accounting mismatches. Overall our results suggest that banks elect the FVO to better present their economics, yielding higher comparability.
Green Extraction of Antioxidants from Hazelnut By-products Using Microwave-Assisted Extraction, Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction, and Pressurized Liquid Extraction
Authors: Elmas Ervanur , Şen Furkan Burak , Kublay İrem Zehra , Baş Yahya , Tüfekci Fikret , Derman Hakan , Bekdeşer Burcu , Aşçı Yavuz Selim , Capanoglu Esra , Bener Mustafa , Apak Reşat
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the green extraction of antioxidants from hazelnut by-products (specifically hazelnut meal and skin) using microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), and pressurized liquid extraction (PLE). The process optimization was conducted via response surface methodology (RSM), with key operational parameters of each process. The extracts were characterized for their total antioxidant capacity (TAC), free radical scavenging capacity (FRC), ABTS radical scavenging capacity (ARC), and total phenolic content (TPC) using spectrophotometric assays. Among the methods, UAE was most effective for hazelnut meal, achieving a TAC of 53.1 µmol trolox (TR)/g, while MAE excelled for hazelnut skin with a TAC of 3.12 mmol TR/g. Phenolic profiling by HPLC–PDA revealed catechin, gallic acid, and protocatechuic acid as predominant compounds. These three extraction processes were evaluated using AGREE-Analytical greenness metric software. These findings demonstrate the potential of hazelnut by-products as sustainable sources of natural antioxidants, with implications for food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic applications. The research underscores the role of advanced extraction technologies in valorizing agricultural waste and contributes to a circular economy.

Graphical Abstract
Am I Discriminated Against? Explaining Immigrants’ Perceived Discrimination by First Name and Ethnic Origin
Authors: Amit Karin , Dolberg Pnina
Published: February 2025

This research examined the perception of being treated unfairly, perceived discrimination, among immigrants from the Former Soviet Union (FSU) and Ethiopia, and the factors underlying these perceptions. It addressed a prominent discrimination determinant that can serve as an identity marker—the first name that immigrants use in everyday encounters, as well as the immigrant’s country of origin. Data were obtained from an online survey completed by 1170 FSU and Ethiopian immigrants who had immigrated to Israel. The findings indicate that the perceived experience of discrimination and the perception of being treated as the “other” (otherness) were greater among the immigrants from Ethiopia than those from FSU. No main effect of the first name used by the immigrants on their perceived discrimination was found, but there was an interaction effect between group of origin and first name on perceived discrimination. The otherness perception of the Ethiopian immigrants was higher than that of the immigrants from the FSU, regardless of whether they used an Israeli or ethnic first name. However, the group difference was more pronounced among those who used an Israeli first name compared to those who used an ethnic one. The implications of the findings are discussed in light of race and ethnic issues.
Persons and their Digital Replicas
Authors: Karpus Jurgis , Strasser Anna
Published: February 2025

Creating a legacy is often seen as a way to circumvent mortality. At the very least, it is a way to ensure that someone’s ideas live on and their influence on others extends beyond their own lifetime. Common examples of such legacies are cultural products, such as books, music, or art, that one creates and leaves behind. In light of rapid advances in artificial intelligence research, it is conceivable that it will soon become possible – and, to some extent, it already is – to create a new type of legacy in the form of a virtual entity, such as a chatbot or an avatar, that acts as a digital replica of someone. In this paper, we investigate in what sense, if any, one could say that the original person continues to exist in their digital replica. Taking Derek Parfit’s work on the nature of personal identity as our inspiration and starting point, we suggest under what circumstances one could (and should) perceive such replicas as genuine extensions of one's personhood.
Trajectory controllability of higher-order fractional neutral stochastic system with non-instantaneous impulses via state-dependent delay with numerical simulation followed by hearth wall degradation process
Authors: Kasinathan Dhanalakshmi , Chalishajar Dimplekumar , Kasinathan Ravikumar , Kasinathan Ramkumar , Karthikeyan S.
Published: February 2025

Nowadays, engineers and biochemical industries have benefited greatly from controllability analysis and its computational methods. In this paper, the strongest notion of controllability called trajectory controllability (TC) of higher-order fractional neutral stochastic integrodifferential systems (FNSIDEs) with non-instantaneous impulsive (NI) via state-dependent delay is studied. The existence and uniqueness of solutions are proved in the infinite-dimensional space by using Mönch-type fixed-point theorem with the Hausdroff measure of noncompactness without compactness assumption on the semigroup. Further, the control problem is considered to establish TC results for FNSIDEs with NII. Then after, a fractional neutral stochastic model is discussed in the example section which is extended by the numerical simulation and the optimization technique supported by the Nelder-Mead method is used to identify the control that makes the state equations track a certain control. Finally, the remaining usable life, which can be described by either the probability density function or the point estimate of the mathematical expectation under certain specific stochastic assumptions, is typically defined and a case study on certain hearth wall degradation processes to validate the proposed method in practice.
Advances in Anion Chemistry in the Electrolyte Design for Better Lithium Batteries
Authors: Xiao Hecong , Li Xiang , Fu Yongzhu
Published: February 2025

Electrolytes are crucial components in electrochemical energy storage devices, sparking considerable research interest. However, the significance of anions in the electrolytes is often underestimated. In fact, the anions have significant impacts on the performance and stability of lithium batteries. Therefore, comprehensively understanding anion chemistry in electrolytes is of crucial importance. Herein, in-depth comprehension of anion chemistry and its positive effects on the interface, solvation structure of Li-ions, as well as the electrochemical performance of the batteries have been emphasized and summarized. This review aims to present a full scope of anion chemistry and furnish systematic cognition for the rational design of advanced electrolytes for better lithium batteries with high energy density, lifespan, and safety. Furthermore, insightful analysis and perspectives based on the current research are proposed. We hope that this review sheds light on new perspectives on understanding anion chemistry in electrolytes.
Effect of Al2O3/SiO2 Ratio on Structure and Properties of Mold Flux for High-Al Steel Continuous Casting
Authors: Wang Q. , Zhang J. , Ostrovski O. , Zhang C. , Cai D.
Published: February 2025

The conventional CaO–SiO2-based mold fluxes are not suitable for high-Al steel casting because of the strong reaction between silica in the flux and aluminum in the steel strand. In the process of casting of high-Al steel, flux composition changes, with the decrease of the silica concentration and increase of alumina. Knowledge and understanding of the effect of the Al2O3/SiO2 ratio on flux structure and properties are useful for flux design for the high-Al steel continuous casting. This paper investigated the effect of the Al2O3/SiO2 ratio in the range from 0.7 to 10.8 on structure, viscosity, and heat transfer of CaO–Al2O3–SiO2–B2O3–Na2O–Li2O–MgO–F fluxes. It was found that flux melting temperature increased with the increase in Al2O3/SiO2 ratio. Viscosity of the flux melts increased significantly with the increase of the Al2O3/SiO2 ratio from 0.7 to 1.2, reaching the maximum value, and then decreased with further increase of the Al2O3/SiO2 ratio. Raman spectroscopy analysis revealed that the change of the Al2O3/SiO2 ratio led to the change of aluminate and silicate structural units. The turning point for viscosity was attributed to the change in the degree of flux polymerization which was governed by the amphoteric nature of Al2O3. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed that increasing Al2O3/SiO2 ratio increased crystallization tendency of the fluxes. Heat transfer measurement by infrared emitter technique (IET) revealed that increasing Al2O3/SiO2 ratio led to the decrease in heat flux which is correlated well with the increased crystallinity of the flux. The results suggested that the fluxes with Al2O3/SiO2 ratio 2.1–4.3 are the best candidates among the studied CaO–Al2O3-based mold fluxes for casting of high-Al steel.

Graphical Abstract
The Role of FeO/SiO2 Ratio in Valorizing Iron Silicate Slags as Supplementary Cementitious Materials
Authors: Andersson Anton , Isaksson Jenny , Lennartsson Andreas , Roos Åke , Engström Fredrik
Published: February 2025

Pyrometallurgical copper production is associated with high slag rates, typically ranging from 2.2 to 3.0 tons of slag per ton produced copper. Therefore, slag valorization is necessary to maintain a resource-efficient operation. An attractive application for these iron silicate slags is as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), which effectively lowers the CO2 emissions per ton of concrete. Although utilizing iron silicate slags as SCMs has been studied in previous work, the scientific literature has limited data on the isolated effect of composition on the inherent reactivity in cementitious systems. In particular, no reports on the impact of the FeO/SiO2 ratio have been presented in previous publications. Therefore, the present study aimed to isolate this parameter in a synthetic FeO–SiO2–Al2O3–CaO–MgO–Cr2O3 system. Since the amorphous content is a pertinent parameter for SCMs, a hot-stage confocal laser scanning microscope was utilized to assess the crystallization behavior at continuous cooling conditions. Furthermore, high-temperature rheological experiments were conducted to measure the viscosities of the slags in relation to the crystallization behavior. The experiments highlighted that depolymerizing the slag by increasing the FeO/SiO2 ratio poses increased demands on the cooling rate to avoid crystallization, which was consistent with the rheological data on the impact of temperature on structural changes in the slags. Furthermore, Rapid Reliable Relevant (R3) isothermal calorimeter experiments, assessing the inherent reactivity as an SCM, showed that increasing FeO/SiO2 ratios improves early reactivity at the expense of seven-day reactivity, i.e., a balance between the degree of polymerization and contribution of silicon to the reactions.

Graphical Abstract
Optimal pricing strategies and social welfare of a diabetic pharmaceutical supply chain under supply disruption risk
Authors: Vafaeinejad Mahyar , Taleizadeh Ata Allah , Bhattacharya Arijit , Vafaeinejad Kamyar
Published: February 2025

Diabetes is a serious public health threat. Therefore, the need for the supply and dispensing of diabetic drugs cannot be neglected. This study explores the impacts of supply disruption risks on pricing strategies for two diabetic drugs under three power structures, i.e., supplier–Stackelberg (SS), drugstore–Stackelberg (DRS), and centralized setting (CS), in an attempt to track the optimum strategies. We show how changes in procurement costs and disruption likelihood alter the balance between consumer surplus, profit, and overall social welfare within the pharmaceutical supply chain. CS will be preferred in scenarios in which centralized control over procurement and distribution is highly valuable, particularly in the presence of high procurement costs and supply disruptions, such as those that occur with specialized medications such as insulin analogs and biologics. In addition, in scenarios of low to moderate procurement costs, especially for generic drugs, the DRS strategy dominates CS in the advocacy of social welfare since drugstores can buy at competitive prices. Overall, DRS and CS consistently outperform SS in terms of consumer surplus. However, SS becomes more effective in scenarios where supply disruptions occur and procurement costs drop to zero, such as when governments subsidize drugs during emergencies.
C4C recent developments: carbonaceous-supported catalysts for CO2 conversion into cyclic carbonates
Authors: Johari Suzaimi , Abbo Hanna , Titinchi Salam , Johan Mohd Rafie , Khaligh Nader Ghaffari
Published: February 2025

The conversion of CO2 into value-added chemicals and fuels is one of the potential approaches to deal with the environmental issues caused by the increasing carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere. CO2 can be transformed into a variety of valuable products, including but not limited to carbon monoxide, cyclic carbonates, formic acid, methanol, methane, ethanol, acetic acid, propanol, light olefins, aromatics, and gasoline through thermal catalysis, electrocatalysis, and photo(electro)catalysis. In the ongoing search for new CO2 catalytic conversions, the utilization of carbon-based materials as catalyst supports demonstrates improvement in catalytic performance. This is because of the unique features of carbonaceous supports, such as tunable porous structure, high specific surface area, good thermal and chemical stability, and excellent thermal conductivity. Though there are other strategies for CO2 conversion into value-added chemicals, including cycloaddition, methanation, hydrogenation, electrocatalysis, and photocatalysis, the thermal catalytic conversion of CO2 into five-membered cyclic carbonates has garnered significant attention for its potential to address environmental concerns and reduce reliance on fossil fuels; however, it faces considerable challenges due to the high thermodynamic stability of CO2. To address these issues, this review particularly presents the recent advancements in chemical fixation of CO2 into five-membered cyclic carbonate using carbonaceous-supported catalytic systems viz. graphitic carbon nitride, graphene, carbon nanotubes, carbon nanofiber, porous activated carbon, and carbon sphere, that provide advantages such as tunable porous structures, high specific surface areas, and excellent thermal and chemical stability. Furthermore, carbon materials can be easily modified by introducing defects or heteroatoms to enhance their catalytic performance. This review provides information on current research, development trends, and the necessary path to expedite the current technological CO2 conversion technologies in terms of catalytic materials, and the various experimental conditions employed in these reactions. The important role of molecular and process modeling in implementing these technologies at a commercial scale is also highlighted. The review aims to provide the current advancements in CO2 conversion and demonstrate the potential of carbonaceous-supported catalysts to improve the efficiency of cyclic carbonate production, thereby contributing to more sustainable chemical processes.

Graphical Abstract
Bolzano’s Aesthetic Cognitivism
Authors: TUNA EMINE HANDE
Published: February 2025

This article examines Bolzano’s aesthetic cognitivism. It argues that, while reminiscent of German rationalist aesthetics and hence potentially appearing rigid and outdated, Bolzano’s version of cognitivism is, in fact, highly innovative and more flexible than the cognitivism championed by the rationalists. He imports from the rationalists the idea that aesthetic appreciation and creation are rule-governed, yet does not construe rule-following and engaging in free aesthetic activities as mutually exclusive. Furthermore, thanks to his nuanced treatment of the interaction between aesthetic values and other types of values, Bolzano’s aesthetic cognitivism presents a fresh alternative to contemporary versions of aesthetic cognitivism.
Public Perceptions of the Fairness of Black and White Judges in Racialized and Non-Racialized Cases
Authors: Means Taneisha , Unah Isaac
Published: February 2025

Black legal theorists often believe White Americans see Black judges as incapable of deciding racial issues fairly. Using a survey experiment, we examine this by studying perceptions of Black and White judges’ fairness through racial threat and group consciousness. Results show race consistently influences Black Americans’ evaluations of judges, with Black respondents viewing Black judges as fairer on racial issues. For White respondents, race only affects their views of judges in the context of racial resentment, otherwise playing no significant role. These results highlight the complex interplay of race in judicial evaluations.
Doctors in Japanese prisoner-of-war camps in Taiwan in the Second World War and their personal accounts of captivity
Authors: Venables Katherine M.
Published: February 2025

Taiwan became a Japanese colony in 1895 and in the Second World War was geographically central in Japan’s wartime possessions and strategically important, with military airfields, ports, and a copper mine. Its sixteen prisoner-of-war camps included four labour camps. Taiwan was also the first place to which senior officers and colonial officials were dispersed after the Allied surrenders in Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines. Forty-five doctors from the British, Australian, Dutch and American forces were identified who spent at least part of their captivity on Taiwan. This article uses their personal accounts, official documents and secondary sources to describe them and their work. Although the oldest had experience in the First World War and some had practised in the region, others were young, recently-qualified generalists. Most were transferred between several camps, with one consequence that few contemporaneous medical records survive. Doctors shared the risks and hardships of all prisoners: they lost weight and had the same nutritional disorders, infections and infestations as their patients. Two died. They became significant, scrutinised figures in the camps. Their patients valued their work and understood that they lacked resources for fully effective medical practice.
The Global Legislators Database: Characteristics of National Legislators in the World’s Democracies
Authors: Carnes Nicholas , Ferrer Joshua , Golden Miriam , Lillywhite Esme , Lupu Noam , Nazrullaeva Eugenia
Published: February 2025

This article describes the Global Legislators Database, a new cross-national dataset on the characteristics – party affiliation, gender, age, education, and occupational background – of nearly 20,000 national parliamentarians in the world’s democracies. The database includes 97 electoral democracies with comprehensive information on legislators who held office in each country’s lower or unicameral chamber during one legislative session in 2015, 2016, or 2017. The GLD is the largest individual-level biographical and demographic database on national legislators ever assembled, with a wide range of potential applications. In this article, we provide multiple types of validity checks of the GLD to document the integrity of the data. We also preview three potential applications of the dataset and note other possible uses for this one-of-a-kind resource for studying representation in the world’s democracies.
No escaping Ukraine? Just war and the morality of external conscription
Authors: Nili Shmuel
Published: February 2025

Commonsense morality suggests that an unjustly invaded democracy may conscript its own citizens and bar them from emigrating when such a policy is necessary to sustain resistance to the invader. What does this assumption regarding ‘internal conscription’ entail for ‘external conscription’ – for foreign countries who might close their borders to many citizens of the invaded democracy, to push them to fight? Could it have been morally appropriate for Ukraine’s neighbours, for instance, to close their borders to (many) Ukrainians at the onset of the Russian assault on Kyiv, with the aim of sustaining Ukraine’s resistance to Putin’s invasion? I take up such questions by examining the seeming discrepancy between internal and external conscription. I argue that, notwithstanding its surface appeal, a categorical divide between the two kinds of conscription is unwarranted. At the level of fundamental moral principles, the two stand and fall together.
Fitness and mating compatibility of Rachiplusia nu strains exposed to soybean expressing Cry1Ac in Argentina
Authors: Manzano Carolina , Vera M. Alejandro , Casmuz Augusto S. , Albarracin Erica Luft , Gastaminza Gerardo , Murúa María Gabriela
Published: February 2025

Rachiplusia nu (Guenée) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a significant agricultural pest in South America infesting several crops, including soybeans. Bacillus thuringiensis (Berliner) (Bt) soybean, expressing Cry1Ac protein, is widely planted as a control method for numerous lepidopteran pests. However, insect resistance to Bt proteins poses a threat to its sustainability. Recent field reports from Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil have documented unexpected injury to Bt soybean caused by R. nu populations, which may indicate the development of resistance to Cry1Ac in this species. This study aimed to evaluate the biological performance, reproductive parameters, and reproductive compatibility of two R. nu strains, one susceptible (SS) and the other exhibiting reduced susceptibility to Bt toxin (RR), when reared on Bt and non-Bt soybean. Reproductive compatibility between strains was investigated through parental and hybrid crosses, evaluating fecundity, fertility, and mating success. SS larvae fed with Bt soybean failed to complete their life cycle, whereas RR larvae exhibited higher survival rates. Egg and larval stages of RR larvae were longer when reared on Bt soybean. Pupal mass was lower for Bt-fed resistant strain, although this did not reflect on fecundity and longevity. Results on parental crosses revealed that Bt-fed RR strain displayed reduced mating success, fecundity, and fertility, compared to the non-Bt treatment. Hybrid crosses showed evidence for prezygotic and postzygotic incompatibility. These results suggest a shift in susceptibility of R. nu to Cry1Ac protein and highlight the importance of implementing robust insect resistance management strategies to maintain the effectiveness of Bt crops.
Steinernema keralense n. sp., a new entomopathogenic nematode (Nematoda: Steinernematidae) from India
Authors: Anes K.M. , Patil J. , Babu M. , Aarthi N. , Gotyal B.S. , Josephrajkumar A. , Mhatre P.H. , Sajan J.V. , Gowda M.T. , Půža V.
Published: February 2025

In this study, morphological and molecular features were used to identify a new Steinernema sp. from Kerala, India. Morphological and molecular features provide evidence for placing the new species into the longicaudum clade. The new species is characterized by the following morphological features: infective juveniles with a body length of 1067 μm (914–1268 μm); a distance from the anterior end to excretory pore of 82 μm (73–92 μm); a distance from anterior end to nerve ring of 105 μm (91–118 μm). The distinguishing feature of the infective juveniles of S. keralense n. sp. is the presence of seven ridges in the mid-body region, while all other species classified within the logicaudum clade to date are characterized by eight ridges. The first-generation males are characterised by 25 genital papillae, very short spicules, with a length of 68 μm (60–72 μm), and the SW% ratio is 136 (114–169). The new species is further characterized by sequences of the internal transcribed spacer and partial 28S regions of the ribosomal DNA. Phylogenetic analyses show that S. keralense n. sp. is closely related to species within the longicaudum clade.
Serpentirhabdias orientalis sp. nov. (nematoda: rhabdiasidae), a new lungworm species in naja kaouthia from Thailand: the first record of the genus from the oriental region and an elapid snake
Authors: Charoennitiwat Vachirapong , Tongpon Supakit , Suksuwan Phatthariya , Chaisiri Kittipong , Laoungbua Panithi , Tawan Tanapong , Thaenkham Urusa , Ratnarathorn Napat
Published: February 2025

A new lungworm species, Serpentirhabdias orientalis sp. nov., was discovered in the respiratory organs of the monocled cobra (Naja kaouthia) in Thailand, marking the first record of a Serpentirhabdias species in both the Oriental Region – Southeast Asia – and in an elapid snake. Morphological analysis revealed distinctive features that clearly differentiate it from all 22 previously known species, such as an elongated body (up to 5858 µm), 6 onchia, a triangular oral opening, and a thin cuticle. The species also exhibited significant differences in several characteristics, such as tail length, distance from the anterior end to the excretory pore and the number of eggs in the uteri, when compared to closely related species such as Serpentirhabdias moi and Serpentirhabdias mussuranae. Specimens were analysed using light microscopy, and genetic sequencing of COI and 28S rRNA confirmed its distinctiveness. Phylogenetic analysis, reinforced by morphological data, revealed a close relationship between S. orientalis sp. nov. and Neotropical species, raising intriguing questions about the biogeography and evolutionary history of lungworms. The high prevalence and intensity of infection in the monocled cobras could have ecological consequences, potentially impacting the health of wild snake populations. Increasing wildlife–human interactions highlight the need to monitor parasitic infections for ecological and veterinary insights. These findings contribute to the expanding taxonomy of Serpentirhabdias and emphasize the importance of further research into parasitic infections in both wild and captive reptiles, with potential implications for conservation and veterinary management.
Foreign financial shocks and domestic credit policy in the small open economy
Authors: Shim Jae Hun
Published: February 2025

This paper introduces a global banking system in a small open economy DSGE model and features global relative price adjustments with incomplete asset market to investigate the role of international financial imperfections. We show that credit policy could be more powerful than monetary policy to alleviate foreign financial shocks since an expansionary monetary policy and alternative policy rules are not a sufficient tool in the global financial crisis. In particular, credit policy based on international credit spread outperforms credit policy based on domestic credit spread since the former attempts to remove distortions from international financial imperfections and reduces real costs of foreign loans. Accordingly, the lower costs of external finance further boost investment and effectively stabilize the economy without substantial asset purchases.
Kant as Comprehensive Liberal
Authors: Krasnoff Larry
Published: February 2025

In a well-known essay, Thomas Pogge argues that Kant’s political philosophy is not comprehensive in Rawls’ sense, since it is independent of his moral philosophy. However, Pogge understands Kant’s comprehensive liberalism as the view that his moral philosophy entails his political philosophy. I question whether this is the best way to understand comprehensive liberalism, in Kant or in general. I argue that Kant’s comprehensive moral philosophy is not an independent argument for the moral truth of liberal ideals, but a liberal way of justifying an independent commitment to politically liberal values, given that we all have values that are not political.