bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dissecting Key Factors Influencing Electrochemical Conversion of Carbon Solutions over Nickel Single Atoms
Authors: Feng Lan‐Hui , Wang Ningru , Zou Ye‐Bin , Li Yanwei , Hu Xin‐Ming
Published: January 2025

The direct electrochemical conversion of bicarbonate solutions (i.e., captured CO2) has emerged as a sustainable approach for integrating CO2 capture and utilization compared to the traditional independent and sequential route. However, the process of bicarbonate conversion is poorly understood, impeding the development of this new technology. Here, the study explores the critical factors influencing bicarbonate solution conversion over Ni single‐atom catalysts, including catalyst structure, carbon source, electrolysis temperature, and electrolyzer type. The catalyst with better exposure of Ni sites and smaller charge transfer resistance exhibits higher activity for the conversion of both gaseous CO2 and bicarbonate solutions. In situ Raman spectroscopy and DFT calculations reveal that bicarbonate conversion follows a two‐step pathway, that is, bicarbonate dissociation to generate CO2 followed by CO2 reduction to form CO over Ni sites. Increasing the electrolysis temperature promotes the dissociation of HCO3− and boosts the CO production. More interestingly, switching the Ar/CO2 atmosphere affects the efficiency of CO production in H‐cell but has no influence in membrane electrode assembly cell. Such a phenomenon is attributed to different CO2 sources. This work sheds light on the electrochemical conversion of various carbon solutions and establishes the connection between the conversion of gaseous CO2 and captured CO2.
A Versatile Dual‐Responsive Shape‐Memory Gripper via Additive Manufacturing Toward High‐Performance Cross‐Scale Objects Maneuvering
Authors: Wu Sizhu , Fang Jinpeng , Gao Xueli , Liu Ruixiang , Pei Feng , Li Chuanzong , Chen Chao
Published: January 2025

Smart grippers serving as soft robotics have garnered extensive attentions owing to their great potentials in medical, biomedical, and industrial fields. Though a diversity of grippers that account for manipulating the small objects (e.g., tiny micrometer‐scale droplets) or the big ones (e.g., centimeter‐scale screw) has been proposed, however, cross‐scale maneuvering of these two species leveraging an all‐in‐one intelligent gripper is still challenging. Here, a magnet/light dual‐responsive shape‐memory gripper (DR‐SMG) is reported, based on the hybrid of Fe‐nanoparticles and shape‐memory polymers. Thanks to its photothermal effect, the closed‐state DR‐SMG switches to the open state under the synergetic cooperation of near‐infrared‐ray (NIR) and a circinate magnetic field, referring to the temporary state. On the other hand, once the NIR is loaded, the temporary opened DR‐SMG would reconfigure to its permanent closed state owing to shape‐memory effect. Leveraging this principle, DR‐SMG can grasp and release diverse cross‐scale objects ranging from micrometers to centimeters including metals, glass balls, polymers, and small liquids. Significantly, this versatile DR‐SMG is capable of spatially delivering multifunctional chemical droplets and conductive liquid metals, thereby enabling lab‐on‐chip and electrical switch applications. This work provides new insights into intelligent grippers and further advances the field of soft robotics.
Interface Engineering and Modulation of Nickel Oxide for High Air‐Stable p‐Type Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells
Authors: Li Le , Xu Jiahui , Wang Jilei , Bao Shaojuan
Published: January 2025

Dopant‐free passivating contact crystalline silicon solar cells hold the potential of higher efficiency and cost down. In the hole‐transport terminal, one still faces the challenge of trade‐off between efficiency and stability. In this work, a H‐Al2O3/NiOx/Ni stacked hole‐transport layer is proposed, where the H‐Al2O3 standing for H‐rich Al2O3 film can effectively reduce the interfacial defects and the high work function Ni metal results in a low contact resistance of 47.12 mΩ cm2. Consequently, the solar cell achieves an efficiency of 20.51%, with a fill factor of 84.83%, demonstrating satisfactory stability. This work provides a strategy for reducing interfacial defects and highlights the potential of stacked structure design for enhancing passivated contact solar cell performance.
Large AI Models and Their Applications: Classification, Limitations, and Potential Solutions
Authors: Bi Jing , Wang Ziqi , Yuan Haitao , Shi Xiankun , Wang Ziyue , Zhang Jia , Zhou MengChu , Buyya Rajkumar
Published: January 2025

Background

In recent years, Large Models (LMs) have been rapidly developed, including large language models, visual foundation models, and multimodal LMs. They are updated and iterated at a very fast pace. These LMs can accomplish many tasks, e.g., daily work assistant, intelligent customer service, and intelligent factory scheduling. Their development has contributed to various industries in human society.

Aims

The architectural flaws of LMs lead to several problems, including illusions and difficulty in locating errors, limiting their performance. Solving these problems properly can facilitate their further development.

Methods

This work first introduces the development of LMs and identifies their current problems, including data and energy consumption, catastrophic forgetting, reasoning ability, localization fault, and ethical problems. Then, potential solutions to these problems are provided, including increase data and computation capability, neural‐symbolic synergy, and data orientation to human pattern.

Discussion

This work discusses developing vertical domain LMs on top of some base LMs. In addition, this work introduces three typical real‐world applications of LMs, including autonomous driving, smart industrial productions, and intelligent medical assistance.

Conclusion

By embracing the advantages of LMs and solving their fundamental problems, many industries are expected to achieve promising prospects in the future.
The Ocean Incubator Network (OIN) Project and the Toolkit
Authors: Vita Laura , Poto Margherita Paola , Panieri Giuliana
Published: January 2025

This chapter serves as the foundational entry point into understanding the Ocean Incubator Network (OIN) Project and this Toolkit as its milestone. Section 1 provides a comprehensive overview of the OIN Project, detailing its vision, objectives, key project results, and milestones. Following this, Sect. 2 explains the purpose of this Toolkit, which stands as a principal milestone of the project. It outlines the structure of the Toolkit and offers a preliminary summary of its contents, setting the stage for detailed exploration in subsequent chapters. In Sect. 3, the chapter concludes with reflections on potential future applications and developments of both the network and the Toolkit.

As an extensive guide endorsed by UNESCO to advance ocean literacy, the publication directly addresses Challenges 9 and 10 of the Ocean Decade.
Semantic-Enhanced Digital Twin for Industrial Working Environments
Authors: Yang Chao , Guo Qize , Yu Hao , Chen Yan , Taleb Tarik , Tammi Kari
Published: January 2025

Real-time data from diverse Internet of Things (IoT) sensors (such as cameras, temperature, light, and air quality sensors) is essential for monitoring smart manufacturing environments. However, efficiently perceiving, integrating, and interpreting this data remains a challenge, as it involves dealing with heterogeneous data formats, ensuring data accuracy, and providing real-time analytics. This paper proposes a semantic-enhanced Digital Twin (DT) to address these complexities and aims to offer a comprehensive view of industrial working environments. The paper first presents a conceptual overview of the semantic-enhanced DT architecture, followed by a detailed description of the system architecture, encompassing edge, cloud, and interface modules. Additionally, the implementation of the entire system is presented. The results demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed DT, showing its potential for deployment in real-world scenarios.
Identity and Trust Architecture for Device Lifecycle Management
Authors: Marín Frutos Agustín , García Rodríguez Jesús , Skarmeta Antonio , Loupos Konstantinos , Vavilis Sokratis
Published: January 2025

The Internet of Things (IoT) paradigm has become widespread, and only expected to increase in magnitude. The need for security and privacy measures adapted to this kind of environments has become apparent. This paper presents a comprehensive identity and trust architecture for managing the lifecycle of IoT devices, developed within the H2020 project ERATOSTHENES. The architecture focuses on secure device identity management, trust evaluations, and seamless interactions within multi-domain IoT environments. As part of the innovation, the solution includes the integration of self-sovereign identity principles and technologies such as Decentralized Identifiers, Verifiable Credentials and distributed ledger technologies. The proposed architecture leverages advanced cryptographic techniques and Physical Unclonable Functions to enhance security and privacy. The identity solution is complemented with a trust framework that continuously evaluates the domain’s participants, establishing a zero-trust approach. This is enhanced with cyberthreat monitoring, sharing and mitigating tools to provide security across different planes. Thus, the framework addresses critical security and privacy requirements withing the lifecycle of devices, ensuring robust and scalable IoT device management from their initial bootstrapping to their decommissioning.
Bakry-Émery curvature sharpness and curvature flow in finite weighted graphs: theory
Authors: Cushing David , Kamtue Supanat , Liu Shiping , Münch Florentin , Peyerimhoff Norbert , Snodgrass Ben
Published: January 2025

In this sequence of two papers, we introduce a curvature flow on (mixed) weighted graphs which is based on the Bakry-Émery calculus. The flow is described via a time-continuous evolution through the weighting schemes. By adapting this flow to preserve the Markovian property, its limits turn out to be curvature sharp. Our aim is to present the flow in the most general case of not necessarily reversible random walks allowing laziness, including vanishing transition probabilities along some edges (“degenerate” edges). This approach requires to extend all concepts (in particular, the Bakry-Émery curvature related notions) to this general case and it leads to a distinction between the underlying topology (a mixed combinatorial graph) and the weighting scheme (given by transition rates). We present various results about curvature sharp vertices and weighted graphs as well as some fundamental properties of this new curvature flow. This paper is accompanied by another paper discussing the curvature flow implementation in Python for practical use, where we present various examples and exhibit further properties of the flow, like stability properties of curvature flow equilibria.
Scanner-based real-time three-dimensional brain + body slice-to-volume reconstruction for T2-weighted 0.55-T low-field fetal magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Uus Alena , Neves Silva Sara , Aviles Verdera Jordina , Payette Kelly , Hall Megan , Colford Kathleen , Luis Aysha , Sousa Helena , Ning Zihan , Roberts Thomas , McElroy Sarah , Deprez Maria , Hajnal Joseph , Rutherford Mary , Story Lisa , Hutter Jana
Published: January 2025

Background

Motion correction methods based on slice-to-volume registration (SVR) for fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allow reconstruction of three-dimensional (3-D) isotropic images of the fetal brain and body. However, all existing SVR methods are confined to research settings, which limits clinical integration. Furthermore, there have been no reported SVR solutions for low-field 0.55-T MRI.

Objective

Integration of automated SVR motion correction methods directly into fetal MRI scanning process via the Gadgetron framework to enable automated T2-weighted (T2W) 3-D fetal brain and body reconstruction in the low-field 0.55-T MRI scanner within the duration of the scan.

Materials and methods

A deep learning fully automated pipeline was developed for T2W 3-D rigid and deformable (D/SVR) reconstruction of the fetal brain and body of 0.55-T T2W datasets. Next, it was integrated into 0.55-T low-field MRI scanner environment via a Gadgetron workflow that enables launching of the reconstruction process directly during scanning in real-time.

Results

During prospective testing on 12 cases (22–40 weeks gestational age), the fetal brain and body reconstructions were available on average 6:42 ± 3:13 min after the acquisition of the final stack and could be assessed and archived on the scanner console during the ongoing fetal MRI scan. The output image data quality was rated as good to acceptable for interpretation. The retrospective testing of the pipeline on 83 0.55-T datasets demonstrated stable reconstruction quality for low-field MRI.

Conclusion

The proposed pipeline allows scanner-based prospective T2W 3-D motion correction for low-field 0.55-T fetal MRI via direct online integration into the scanner environment.

Graphical Abstract
Investigation of the free-radical polymerization of vinyl monomers using horseradish peroxidase (HRP) nanoflowers
Authors: Ozaydin Gulbahar , Mirioglu Muge , Dadi Seyma , Ocsoy Ismail , Gokturk Ersen
Published: January 2025

In this study, we report the production of flower-shaped HRP-Cu2+ hybrid nano biocatalyst (HRP-Cu2+ HNF) from the complexation between horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme and Cu2+ ions, and investigate catalytic activity and stability of the obtained nanoflowers on the polymerization of some vinyl monomers (styrene, methylmethacrylate, acrylamide and N-isopropylacrylamide). Polymerizations of these monomers, except water soluble acrylamide, were accomplished under emulsion conditions using cationic, anionic and non-ionic surfactants in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and 2,4-pentanedione mediator. Optimum polymerizations were achieved under the conditions of non-ionic surfactant (tween 40) used. HRP-Cu2+ HNF mediated polymerizations resulted in very high yields and molecular weights (M
n) of the polymers. Optimum polymerization of styrene with 84% of yield (M
n = 319 kDa) was accomplished at room temperature. However, the highest polymerization yields for acrylamide (96%, M
n = 171 kDa) and N-isopropylacrylamide (85%, M
n = 185 kDa) was achieved at 70 °C. Similarly, optimum polymerization of methylmethacrylate was accomplished with 84% of yield (M
n = 190 kDa) at 60 °C. While free-HRP loses its catalytic activity at 60 °C and above temperatures, HRP-Cu2+ HNF showed very high catalytic activity and stability even at 70 °C. Increasing activity and stability of hybrid nanoflowers provide significant advantages for both scientific and industrial applications.
The prognostic value of baseline EARL standardized FDG PET indices in pediatric and adolescent high-grade osteosarcoma
Authors: van Ewijk Roelof , Dandis Rana , Rodewijk Janna , de Keizer Bart , ter Horst Simone A. J. , van de Sande Michiel A. J. , van der Heijden Lizz , Merks Johannes H. M. , Haveman Lianne M. , Braat Arthur J. A. T.
Published: January 2025

Objective

To investigate the prognostic value of baseline European Association of Nuclear Medicine Research Ltd. (EARL) standardized [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography ([18F]FDG PET-CT) quantitative values for survival and to evaluate cutoff values identified in other studies.

Materials and methods

Pediatric and adolescent patients with high-grade osteosarcoma were included. Baseline [18F]FDG PET-CT, with EARL-accredited reconstructions, was the standard diagnostic staging procedure. Cox proportional hazard analysis for event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) was performed with clinical prognostic factors. Kaplan–Meier analysis and log-rank tests were applied to investigate the prognostic performance of the [18F]FDG PET indices.

Results

In total, 66 patients were included in this study. In the univariable Cox regression analysis, peak lean-body mass corrected SUV (SULpeak) (hazard ratio (HR): 1.04), total lesion glycolysis (TLG) (HR: 1.0), and metabolic tumor volume (MTV) (HR: 1.0) were not associated with EFS or OS. Log-rank analysis showed a significant difference in EFS for all SULmax and SULpeak cutoffs. For MTVtotal the maximum Youden, and for TLGtotal, the maximum Youden and maximally selected rank cutoff resulted in a significant EFS difference. No cutoff for any measure showed a significant difference in OS between the groups. ROC curves for event status had an AUC of 0.67, 0.66, 0.64, and 0.64 for SULmax, SULpeak, MTVtotal, and TLGtotal, respectively.

Conclusion

In this study, the baseline EARL-standardized [18F]FDG PET indices of children and adolescents with osteosarcoma were not prognostic of EFS or OS. The proposed prognostic cutoffs from earlier studies suffer from important technical and statistical issues.

Key Points

Question

Prognostic value of baseline [

18

F]FDG PET-CT imaging markers have been reported for histologic response and survival in high-grade osteosarcoma but have not been validated for clinical practice.

Findings

Baseline SUV

peak
, TLG

total

, and MTV

total

measured on EARL-accredited reconstructions were not prognostic factors for survival in pediatric and adolescent patients with high-grade osteosarcoma.

Clinical relevance

A wide range of values for SUV

peak

and SUV

max

cutoffs with similar prognostic value were identified, questioning the value of a single proposed cutoff. Lack of validation, with important technical and statistical issues of proposed prognostic cutoffs, limits clinical implementation.
Liming enhances the abundance and stability of nitrogen-cycling microbes: the buffering effect of long-term lime application
Authors: Mitsuta Akari , Lourenço Késia Silva , Chang Jingjing , Ros Mart , Schils René , Uchida Yoshitaka , Kuramae Eiko Eurya
Published: January 2025

Lime application (liming) has historically been used to ameliorate soil acidity in grasslands. Liming effectively improves soil pH, plant productivity, and soil physicochemical properties, but the long-term impact of acidity control by liming on key microbial nitrogen (N)-cycling genes in semi-natural grasslands is unknown. We investigated the effect of 65 years of liming on N-cycling processes in the limed and control plots of the Ossekampen long-term grassland experiment in the Netherlands. These plots have not received any other fertilizers for 65 years. Soil sampling and nitrous oxide (N2O) emission measurements were conducted three times in spring and four times in summer, and quantitative real-time PCR was performed to determine the absolute abundances of N-cycling genes, including ammonia-oxidation (amoA-AOB, amoA-AOA, amoA-comammox), denitrification (nirS, nirK, nosZ), nitrate ammonification (nrfA), and N-fixation (nifH) genes. Long-term liming increased the absolute abundances of nitrifiers, denitrifiers, and nitrate ammonifiers. Soil N2O emissions did not differ significantly between liming and control treatments. Additionally, liming had a buffering effect that maintained the population of N-cycling microbes against seasonal variations in abundance. Our results indicate that improving soil acidity through liming potentially facilitates microbial N-cycling processes without increasing N2O emissions.
Das Grubenrettungsseminar in der Ausbildung der Montanuniversität Leoben
Authors: Sifferlinger Nikolaus August , Schön Wilhelm , Knoll Birgit
Published: January 2025

Die Absolventen der Studienrichtung Rohstoffingenieurswesen werden, wenn sie in Untertagebetrieben zu arbeiten beginnen, rasch in unterstützender, aktiver oder leitender Funktion mit der Grubenwehr in Berührung kommen. Um sie darauf vorzubereiten, wird an der Montanuniversität Leoben das Grubenrettungsseminar angeboten.

Im Grubenrettungsseminar lernen sie die Grundlagen für die Arbeit der Grubenwehr und der betrieblichen Notfallplanung kennen. Durch die Teilnahme als Beobachter an einer Grubenwehrübung werden auch Einblicke in die praktische Rettungsarbeit ermöglicht. Damit sind die Absolventen auch auf das betriebliche Rettungswesen im Bergbau gut vorbereitet.

Die Montanuniversität Leoben bildet die Absolventen der Studienrichtung Rohstoffingenieurswesen im Grubenrettungswesen aus und hält sich durch nationale und internationale Zusammenarbeit am neuesten Stand der Technik und Organisation.
A new 3D full-body scanner analyzing the sagittal and coronal balance of the adult spine: a preliminary prospective observational study
Authors: Kang Tae Hoon , Jang Seokin , Seo Inwook , Choi Minseok , Park Yongsoo , Lee Yohan , Lee Jae Hyup , Cho Minjoon
Published: January 2025

Background

The degenerative spondylosis can cause the difficulty in maintaining sagittal and coronal alignment of spine, and X-ray parameters are the gold standard to analyze the malalignment. This study aimed to develop a new 3D full body scanner to analyze the spinal balance and compare it to X-ray parameters.

Methods

Ninety-seven adult participants who suffer degenerative spondylosis underwent 3D full body scanning, whole spine X-rays, clinical questionnaires and body composition analyses. The 5 inflection points (ear, shoulder, hip, knee, ankle) of the 3D scanner in the sagittal plane were automatically labeled by an AI algorithm. Three concepts are created including “the angle between two points with respect to the plumb line”, “the horizontal distances between two points in the sagittal plane” and “the angle between three points”. For the coronal plane, the shoulder gradient was analyzed. X-ray parameters of cervical, thoracolumbar and whole spine sagittal balance and coronal balances were compared. The body composition data and clinical questionnaire scores were compared to x-ray and 3D scanner parameters.

Results

The correlation coefficient (C.C.) of dAB_hor (horizontal distance between ear and shoulder in the sagittal plane) and C2-C7 SVA was 0.478 (p-value < 0.001). The C.C. of aAC_sag (sagittal angle of ear-hip from the plumb line) and ODHA was 0.336 (p < 0.001). About coronal balance, the C.C. of shoulder gradient and clavicle angle from x-ray was 0.373 (p < 0.001). The C.C.s were merely affected by body composition data. But in multiple regression analysis, BMI affected 3D scanner data. Clinical symptoms showed correlations with aBCD(shoulder-hip-knee) and aCDE(hip-knee-ankle angle), which may reflect a compensatory pelvic retroversion and knee flexion for positive sagittal imbalance.

Conclusions

This new 3D scanner has some strengths like radiation-free methods, correlation with x-ray parameters and clinical symptoms, independence to body composition data, and possibility of analyzing dynamic spine balance.
Radiological and anatomical evaluation of the internal venous system in the context of access to the third ventricle - proposal of a new classification
Authors: Zaczkowski Karol , Łabętowicz Piotr , Podstawka Małgorzata , Wójcik Rafał , Bobeff Ernest Jan , Zielińska Nicole , Szmyd Bartosz , Ramirez Manuel de Jesus Encarnacion , Ramirez Issael , Olewnik Łukasz , Jaskólski Dariusz Jan , Wiśniewski Karol
Published: January 2025

Background

The internal venous system of the brain is a crucial anatomical landmark during accesses to the third ventricle through the foramen of Monro. Many classifications based on radiological assessment of the system have been developed, but they tend to be descriptive and do not highlight favorable anatomical variants. The aim of our study was to create a system based on morphometric measurements to facilitate preoperative decision-making regarding access to third ventricle tumors.

Methods

We conducted an analysis of 119 MRI scans with SWI sequence using BrainLab software to create a model of the ventricular system, which allowed us to perform radiological measurements. We then validated these findings anatomically using 32 human brain specimens. The analyzed structures included the foramen of Monro (FM), the anterior septal vein (ASV), the thalamostriate vein (TSV), the venous angle (VA), the internal cerebral vein (ICV), and the distance between the FM and VA.

Results

Based on the radiological analysis, we identified 9 internal venous systems, accounting for variations in each analyzed structure. The statistical analysis revealed no differences in the frequency of subtypes between radiological and anatomical studies (p = 0.097), nor in the occurrence of false venous angles (p = 0.520). We identified venous configurations that, in our assessment, are unfavorable in the context of accessing the third ventricle.

Conclusion

The resulting classification accounts for significant clinical anatomical variations and, for the first time, provides specific morphometric values for each anatomical subtype. Consequently, it serves as a reproducible reference framework for preoperative planning of access to the third ventricle.
Coronectomy of mandibular third molars with dental pathology: a prospective cohort study of 121 molars
Authors: van Bodegraven Arjan , Simons Rashida N. , Tuk Jacco G. , de Lange Jan , Lindeboom Jerome A. H.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Coronectomy is a valuable treatment proven safe for non-pathological mandibular third molars with an increased risk of inferior alveolar nerve injury. Coronectomy may also be useful for mandibular third molars with dentigerous cysts and caries, but this is not commonly performed due to the lack of well-designed, evidence-based studies. Here, we aim to investigate the safety of coronectomy for mandibular third molars with caries and dentigerous cysts.

Methods

One hundred fifteen patients with an impacted mandibular third molar with a dentigerous cyst or caries underwent coronectomy or complete removal and received follow-up with clinical and radiographical examinations. We statistically compared the presence of postoperative complications after coronectomy versus complete removal.

Results

Data from 121 molars were available for analysis. The results revealed no significant difference in the occurrence of postoperative complications (including persistent pain, inferior alveolar nerve injury, infection, alveolar osteitis, excessive bleeding, and the need for retreatment) between coronectomy and complete removal. Additionally, the incidence of postoperative complications was not related to any analyzed patient- or molar-related factors, including age, gender, health status, smoking, caries, dentigerous cyst extent, and impaction degree.

Conclusion

For pathological impacted mandibular third molars with dentigerous cysts and caries, coronectomy exhibited both short-term and long-term safety, showing no significant difference in postoperative complications compared to total removal. Our results suggest that coronectomy can be indicated for pathological mandibular third molars with proximity to the inferior alveolar nerve.

Trial registration number

Not applicable.
ML-based tooth shade assessment to prevent metamerism in different clinic lights
Authors: Karcioglu Abdullah Ammar , Efitli Esra , Simsek Emrah , Ozdogan Alper , Karatas Furkan , Senocak Tuba
Published: January 2025

The aesthetic understanding has found its place in dental clinics and prosthetic dental treatment. Determining the appropriate prosthetic tooth color between the clinician, patient and technician is a difficult process due to metamerism. Metamerism, known as the different perception of the color of an object under different light sources, is caused by the lighting differences between the laboratory and the dental clinic. The traditional trial-error color determination method, coupled with the high cost of instrumental color value determination, has prompted the need for alternative technologies. The integration of AI technologies into dental practices aims to minimize errors in tooth shade assessment, reduce equipment usage, eliminate the impact of clinic lighting on color detection, and decrease costs for patients, dentists, and laboratories. In this study, a machine learning (ML) based approach that can correctly detect tooth shade even under different clinical lights has been developed. A dataset consisting of 580 dental images taken under four different clinical lights and with five repetitions was created using the Vita color shade guide. Experimental studies were performed using the HSV color space, 6 different ML algorithms and color histograms. As a result, 97.93% accuracy rate was achieved by using cross-validation (cv = 5) in the classification of 29 color values ​​independent of clinical lights. It has been shown that the tooth colors can be determined with high accuracy using ML algorithms and metamerism can be prevented.
First-time unprovoked seizures in adults: when and how to treat
Authors: Catania Cecilia , Bernasconi-Xhepa Sophie , Seeck Margitta
Published: January 2025

First-time unprovoked seizures are relatively common events in the general population. However, they may carry an elevated risk of recurrence, which can lead to the diagnosis of epilepsy. Identifying risk factors for recurrence and assessing the likelihood of relapse are key elements in the initial management of these events to determine whether antiseizure medication (ASM) should be introduced. This paper discusses possible treatments after a first-time epileptic seizure in the context of new-onset epilepsy. The importance of early and comprehensive work-up is highlighted given the poorer prognosis, at least during the first 2 years, if other seizures occur. We also discuss the choice of ASM monotherapy based on seizure type and individual clinical factors.
Population genomics and genetic diversity of the invasive chrysanthemum lace bug (Corythucha marmorata) across its invasive range in Japan
Authors: Contreras-Negrete Gonzalo , Meza-Lázaro Rubi N. , Benites Pilar , Becerra-Lira Víctor E. , Sakata Yuzu , Ohgushi Takayuki , Craig Timothy P. , Itami Johanne , Zaldívar-Riverón Alejandro , Hernández-López Antonio
Published: January 2025

The escalating global movement of alien species, facilitated by increased trade and travel, poses a pressing need to comprehend their invasive potential and the consequent ecological and economic ramifications. Despite a growing body of evidence on rapid evolutionary shifts in invasive species, comprehensive insights into the genetic variability underlying these adaptations are constrained by limited genomic resources. Understanding the role of genetic variation in the success or failure of biological invaders is thus crucial. This study focuses on the chrysanthemum lace bug, Corythucha marmorata, as a model system to investigate the interplay of genetic variation and invasion dynamics. Our analysis reveals moderate genetic structure among countries, with significant genetic differentiation observed within populations. Mitochondrial COI DNA and haplotype network analysis revealed shared haplotypes between Japan and North America, indicating recent events of introduction, while exclusive Japanese haplotypes and significant FST and GST values suggest local divergence. Phylogenetic and STRUCTURE analyses show genetic clusters unique to Japan, with populations like SAG and CER displaying higher divergence. Bottlenecks followed by divergence, as indicated by the DIYABC-RF analysis, point to a complex evolutionary history involving multiple introductions and subsequent local divergence in Japan.
Anxiety Symptoms Predict Subsequent Depressive Symptoms in Neurodivergent Youth: A 10-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Orm Stian , Wood Jeffrey J. , Fossum Ingrid Nesdal , Adams Keenan , Andersen Per Normann , Fjermestad Krister , Øie Merete Glenne , Skogli Erik Winther
Published: January 2025

Neurodivergent youth often experience anxiety and depressive symptoms that may hamper adaptive functioning and well-being. There is little knowledge of how anxiety and depression are related in neurodivergent youth. Therefore, we aimed to examine whether the relationship between anxiety and depressive symptoms is uni- or bidirectional in neurodiverse youth. We assessed self-reported anxiety and depressive symptoms over time in 173 youth (M

baseline age
= 11.7 years, SD = 2.1, 64% males, 36% females). The sample comprised 38 autistic youth, 85 youth diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and 50 comparison youth assessed at baseline (T1), 2-year follow-up (T2, 97% retention), and 10-year follow-up (T3, 73% retention). We used cross-lagged models to analyze the data. In neurodivergent youth, more anxiety symptoms at T1 and T2 predicted more depressive symptoms at T2 and T3. Preceding anxiety symptoms were linked with later depressive symptoms, even after accounting for autoregressive effects of depressive symptoms. The results are consistent with a prodromal model in which anxiety symptoms can independently foreshadow the emergence of depressive symptoms over the course of development among neurodivergent youth. Potentially, addressing anxiety symptoms among youth with autism or ADHD could play a role in preventing the onset of youth depression.
“DNA Doesn’t Lie:” Genetic Essentialism and Determinism in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
Authors: Lillydahl Alice , Clayton Jay
Published: January 2025

Law and Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU) (1999–present) is a popular primetime drama that spotlights the use of genetic information to solve crimes. Despite the show’s heavy reliance on the forensic use of DNA evidence, the role of genetics in defining family and identity arises in complex ways. Many episodes wrestle with social, ethical, and legal questions that reflect assumptions about genetic essentialism and genetic determinism, but counterarguments about the importance of non-biological relationships, social factors, and legal entitlements are given equal or greater weight. For this study, we identified and viewed 38 episodes from SVU’s first twenty seasons centered on genetic themes in non-forensic contexts. Two recurring themes emerged: (1) that the role DNA plays is only one factor in a complex web of biological and social considerations that shape our understanding of kinship; and (2) that genetic predispositions to behavioral traits such as mental illness or violence should not be seen as obscuring the responsibility of personal choice. By treating genetics as a complex source of information requiring social context to be understood, SVU allows audiences to play an active role in interpreting its meaning.
Rupture zones of the 1978 (Mw 7.6) and 2020 (Mw 7.4) earthquakes in the Oaxaca subduction zone: Implications for seismic slip and seismic hazard
Authors: Martínez-López M. Rosario , Suárez Gerardo , Mendoza Carlos
Published: January 2025

The slip models of the Oaxaca, Mexico earthquakes of 29 November 1978 (M

w
7.6) and 23 June 2020 (Mw 7.4) were estimated by inverting P and SH teleseismic velocity waveforms. The inversion of the 1978 event used broadband and long-period data. In the case of the 2020 event, broadband data were available. In both cases, the rupture zones lie down dip of the hypocenter. It has been suggested that the events of 1978 and 2020 are quasi-repeater earthquakes breaking similar asperities of previous events. Based on this, the slip of the seismic rupture obtained in recent events is used to characterize the slip of previous events, and to calculate the slip deficiency in the four rupture zones defined by the 1928 events. The largest slip deficiency is where the large 7.6 event occurred in October 1928, between the ruptures of 1978 and the Mw 7.2 earthquake of June 2018. Here, no great earthquakes have occurred in the last 96 years, suggesting high accumulation of elastic strain that may generate potentially an earthquake Mw 7.8. This gap separates two regions with different seismic behavior, suggesting a complex rupture process in the Oaxaca subduction zone. The other three regions, where the 1978, 2018, and 2020 earthquakes took place, show average slip deficiencies of 500 cm. The great earthquake of 1787 broke the four rupture areas defined by the 1928 events in a single Mw 8.6 earthquake, consistent with a variable rupture mode that has been observed in other subduction zones of the world. In conclusion, the Oaxaca subduction zone suggests a high seismic potential.
On the relativistic quantum mechanics of a photon between two electrons in $$1+1$$ dimensions
Authors: Frolov Lawrence , Leigh Samuel , Tahvildar-Zadeh Shadi
Published: January 2025

A Lorentz-covariant system of wave equations is formulated for a quantum-mechanical three-body system in one space dimension, comprised of one photon and two identical massive spin one-half Dirac particles, which can be thought of as two electrons (or alternatively, two positrons). Manifest covariance is achieved using Dirac’s formalism of multi-time wave functions, i.e., wave functions

$$\Psi ({\textbf {x}}_{\text {ph}},{\textbf {x}}_{\text {e}_1},{\textbf {x}}_{\text {e}_2})$$

Ψ
(

x
ph

,

x

e
1

,

x

e
2

)

where

$${\textbf {x}}_{\text {ph}},{\textbf {x}}_{\text {e}_1},{\textbf {x}}_{\text {e}_2}$$

x
ph

,

x

e
1

,

x

e
2

are generic spacetime events of the photon and two electrons, respectively. Their interaction is implemented via a Lorentz-invariant no-crossing-of-paths boundary condition at the coincidence submanifolds

$$\{{\textbf {x}}_{\text {ph}}={\textbf {x}}_{\text {e}_1}\}$$

{

x
ph

=

x

e
1

}

and

$$\{{\textbf {x}}_{\text {ph}}={\textbf {x}}_{\text {e}_2}\}$$

{

x
ph

=

x

e
2

}

compatible with conservation of probability current. The corresponding initial-boundary value problem is shown to be well-posed, and it is shown that the unique solution can be represented by a convergent infinite sum of Feynman-like diagrams, each one corresponding to the photon bouncing between the two electrons a fixed number of times.
Ecological and environmental determinants of phytochemical variability in forest trees
Authors: Ogwu Matthew Chidozie , Izah Sylvester Chibueze , Joshua Marcella Tari
Published: January 2025

Phytochemical variability in plants is driven by a complex interplay of ecological and environmental factors, including genetics, climate, and soil characteristics. Understanding these determinants is increasingly important as phytochemicals are vital in mediating plant interactions with herbivores, pathogens, and their broader ecosystem. Recent research shows the s that both abiotic factors—such as temperature fluctuations, ultraviolet radiation, and nutrient availability—and biotic factors, including herbivory and competition, have significant impacts on phytochemical profiles. Seasonal and spatial variations also influence the concentration of secondary metabolites, which are key to plant defenses and overall ecosystem health. For example, environmental stressors like drought or elevated temperatures can induce higher production of protective phytochemicals, while the developmental stage of the plant and the type of organ (leaf, root, flower) further dictate metabolite expression. This variability holds profound implications for forest conservation and climate resilience. As forests face increasing pressures from climate change, understanding the role of phytochemicals in maintaining ecosystem stability becomes critical. Phytochemicals contribute to plant fitness, species diversity, and ecological interactions, all of which are crucial for the resilience of forest ecosystems. The integration of phytochemical knowledge into forest management can promote biodiversity, enhance ecosystem services, and lead to more sustainable practices in conservation. This paper advocates for interdisciplinary research that connects ecology, chemistry, and conservation biology. Such collaboration is essential to unravel the complex relationships between phytochemical variability and environmental factors, ultimately fostering more informed conservation strategies that can safeguard forest ecosystems in the face of environmental change.
Small and vulnerable during crises? Firm size and financing constraint dynamics
Authors: Heller David , Karapanagiotis Pantelis , Nilsen Øivind A.
Published: January 2025

This study analyzes the dynamics of financing constraints under changing economic conditions and the role of firm size in this context. Using administrative data from Germany, we quantify financing constraints expressed as the probability that a firm encounters excess demand or excess supply. On average, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are indeed more likely than larger firms to face excess demand for loans. Using the Great Financial Crisis as an empirical setting, we show that tightening financing conditions do not affect smaller firms disproportionally, but generally risky borrowers. Importantly, post-crisis trends in debt-ratios, profitability, investments, and employment are similar irrespective of firm size, while smaller firms respond to the economic slowdown by persistently building up cash buffers. Our results urge policymakers to consider specific characteristics of bank-dependent firms to assess their exposure to economic crises—instead of focusing on size as vulnerability criteria per se.
Self-determination theory and teachers’ motivations to perform emotional labor and emotion work: qualitative study of narratives about coping with students’ discipline problems
Authors: Tarantul Arina , Berkovich Izhak
Published: January 2025

This qualitative study investigated teachers’ motivation to perform emotion management (i.e., emotional labor and emotion work) in coping with students’ discipline problems. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 Israeli teachers. Findings indicate that teachers experienced emotional distress when confronted with discipline problems. The study also found that teachers mentioned motivation to perform emotional management related to emotional labor and emotion work to manage their negative emotions. Role modeling, professional standards, preservation of status and authority, and effectiveness were the main introjected and external motivations associated with emotional labor; moral compass and authentic emotional discourse were the main integrated and identified motivations associated with emotion work. Reference to emotional labor aspects was more frequently made by secondary school teachers than among primary school teachers. The theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.
Field Performance of an Innovative Downpipe Roof Runoff Treatment System: Effect of Roof Material, Stormwater Characteristics, and System Age on Heavy Metals Removal
Authors: Souza de Carvalho Jessika , Bello-Mendoza Ricardo , O’Sullivan Aisling
Published: January 2025

Metal roofs are common in urban areas due to their cost-effectiveness and durability, yet stormwater runoff from building roofs is a major contributor of heavy metals to urban waterways. This study investigated the field performance of a downpipe treatment system (DPTS) using waste seashells to remove aluminium, zinc, and copper from roof runoff. First-flush runoff samples were collected before and after treatment during 30 events over 18 months. Results showed that Zn (85–97%) and Cu (59%) in runoff were predominantly dissolved, while Al (71–90%) was mainly particulate. Metal concentrations were largely influenced by the roof material, and weak correlations were observed with climate characteristics. The DPTS effectively removed particulate metals from copper (76 ± 48% Cu, 80 ± 41% Al) and galvanised (75 ± 49% Zn, 74 ± 27% Al) roof runoff. It also removed dissolved metals from Zincalume® (53 ± 32% Zn, 60 ± 30% Al) and Aluminium (96 ± 5% Zn) roof runoff, sustaining performance over 542 days of operation. Metal removal was linked to initial concentrations, partitioning, and metal affinity for the filter media, with precipitation, where metals formed insoluble compounds, and adsorption, where metals bound to the surface of the shells, as potential mechanisms. This study demonstrates that repurposing waste seashells in roof runoff treatment offers a low-cost, scalable and easily retrofittable solution for treating heavy metal pollution at its source, directly supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), and Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11).

Graphical Abstract
Enhancing students’ dialogic reflection through classroom discourse visualisation
Authors: Wang Pengjin , Chen Fan , Wang Deliang , Chen Gaowei
Published: January 2025

Fostering students’ dialogic reflection in the classroom entails promoting diverse perspectives and collaborative aspects of reflective thinking. However, few studies have developed visualisation tools to create a collaborative environment that fosters dialogic reflection, especially for young learners. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of visualising classroom discourse to enhance students’ dialogic reflection. Two information and communication technology (ICT) teachers and their students (n = 53) from a Hong Kong primary school participated in a 3-month study. After engaging in visualisation-supported dialogic reflection, students’ subject knowledge of ICT improved, accompanied by an increase in the proportion of words spoken by students during lessons. Interviews with the two teachers and eight students underscored the positive impact of visualising classroom discourse, which enabled students to embrace alternative problem-solving approaches and actively engage in both collaborative group work and whole-class discussions. This study illuminates the advantages of employing classroom discourse visualisation as a reflective tool. Beyond mere revisiting, students can view experiences from multiple perspectives and reconstruct their knowledge. Furthermore, this approach fostered accountability for students’ contribution during classroom interactions, ultimately improving their learning outcomes. These findings advocate for the development of evidence-based, dialogic reflective tools specifically designed for young learners to optimise their learning experiences.
Women and Men Gamblers Compared: Differences in Gambling Patterns and the Role of Emotion Regulation Strategies and Motivation
Authors: Theodorou Marios , Neophytou Klavdia , Artemi Tonia-Flery , Theodorou Christiana , Panayiotou Georgia
Published: January 2025

Women increasingly participate in gambling and present gambling-related problems. Research has not adequately addressed gender differences in etiology, maintenance, and treatment responses. This study compares women and men gamblers from a community sample (Ν = 1347, 996 male, Meanage = 37.11) throughout the Republic of Cyprus in demographics, gambling patterns, gambling motives, and emotion regulation. Analyses of variance showed that women preferred chance-based gambling more than men and reported greater financial difficulties that may motivate gambling. However, as indicated by regression analyses, for both genders, gambling to cope was the strongest predictor of gambling severity, which in turn was predicted by maladaptive emotion regulation. Moderation models indicated that for men, adaptive emotion regulation moderated the role of gambling motives on gambling severity. Findings suggest that while other gender differences need to be considered in designing targeted interventions, an emphasis on training into adaptive emotion regulation may represent a treatment and prevention target for both genders to reduce gambling to cope with unwanted experiences.