bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Silibinin‐Poly(ε‐Caprolactone) Conjugate as an Enhanced Anticancer Agent
Authors: Vento Fabiana , Privitera Anna , Caruso Giuseppe , Nicosia Angelo
Published: February 2025

Poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) is a hydrolytically degradable biopolyester used in drug delivery to enhance drug solubility and bioavailability, where drugs are typically incorporated physically within the biopolymeric matrix rather than covalently bonded, due to the limited availability of functional groups required for covalent attachment. In pursuit of developing a facile method for the production of a biopolyester‐drug covalent conjugate with effective drug loading capacity, this study reports the synthesis of a covalent Silibinin‐PCL conjugate (Sil‐PCLHyd) through a two‐step approach. This involves the controlled hydrolysis of a high molecular weight PCL to increase the concentration of carboxylic end groups, which are subsequently used for the catalyzed esterification with Silibinin. The Sil‐PCLHyd is characterized with mass spectrometry, gel permeation chromatography, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and NMR and UV–vis spectroscopies. The cytotoxic effects of Sil‐PCLHyd against colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (Caco‐2) are measured through the MTT assay. The results of the Sil‐PCLHyd characterization revealed a Silibinin loading of ≈9.8 wt.%. The MTT assay demonstrated that Sil‐PCLHyd induced cytotoxic effects at concentrations a hundred times lower than those required for free Silibinin. The proposed approach might represent a reliable pathway for the development of biopolyester‐based covalent conjugates with a high drug loading capacity.
On the Lyapunov exponents of triangular discrete time‐varying systems
Authors: Czornik Adam , Doan Thai Son
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we present upper and lower estimates for the Lyapunov exponents of discrete linear systems with triangular time‐varying coefficients. These estimates are expressed by the diagonal elements of the coefficient matrix. As a conclusion from these estimates, we also obtain bounds for the Grobman regularity coefficient.
A nonlinear characterization of stochastic completeness of graphs
Authors: Schmidt Marcel , Zimmermann Ian
Published: February 2025

We study nonlinear Schrödinger operators on graphs. We construct minimal nonnegative solutions to corresponding semilinear elliptic equations and use them to introduce the notion of stochastic completeness at infinity in a nonlinear setting. We provide characterizations for this property in terms of a semilinear Liouville theorem. It is employed to establish a nonlinear characterization for stochastic completeness, which is a graph version of a recent result on Riemannian manifolds.
A sufficient condition for boundedness of maximal operator on weighted generalized Orlicz spaces
Authors: Hietanen Vertti
Published: February 2025

We prove that the Hardy–Littlewood maximal operator is bounded in the weighted generalized Orlicz space if the weight satisfies the classical Muckenhoupt condition and is almost increasing in addition to the standard conditions.
Culturally Adapting a Mental Health Literacy Intervention With Youth (Stakeholders) for Implementation in Malawi Universities
Authors: Nyali Joel , Chirwa Gloria , Chitalah Beatrice Cynthia , Jumbe Sandra
Published: February 2025

In Malawi, it is difficult to promote positive mental health due to poverty, cultural beliefs, and stigma associated with mental illness. Mental health literacy (MHL) is not integrated into the education system despite evidence suggesting educational settings as ideal to deliver MHL programmes. Stakeholder input is crucial during development of interventions. This paper reports on our work with diverse stakeholders to culturally adapt a MHL course (MHLc) for implementation in Malawi universities. The MHLc structure and content development involved focus group discussions (FGDs) with 44 Malawian youth from universities and youth organisations, a national MHL survey and a systematic review exploring adolescent substance use in Africa. The MHLc was delivered to 35 first‐year university students. Students’ MHL was assessed using two questionnaires before and 3 months after MHLc delivery during an evaluation session which also included FGDs with 20 participants to explore course satisfaction. MHL questionnaire responses were analysed using paired t‐tests and FGD transcripts were thematically analysed. Overall student attendance rate during the MHLc delivery was 92%. However, only 57% attended the evaluation session. Students’ MHL increased after course completion (pre and post scores were 116.7 and 117.9 respectively) however this change was not significant. Student feedback about the MHLc was positive. They highlighted acquiring considerable mental health knowledge and skills that they would utilise in their lives daily. A key challenge raised was disruption of course delivery due to electricity outages. The MHLc content was acceptable among university students with high attendance rates and positive feedback regarding impact on participants’ mental health knowledge and attitudes. This paper highlights the value of stakeholders’ input when designing mental health interventions. In future, we need to mitigate disruption of the MHLc delivery and consider incentives to reduce participant dropout at follow up points.
Roselle Extract Ameliorates Abnormal Glucolipid Metabolism and Gut Microbiota in Obese Mice Fed With High‐Fat Diet
Authors: Yang Dan , Xu Hai‐Xia , Wang Wen‐Jun , Yin Zhong‐Ping , Chen Ji‐Guang , Yuan En , Zhang Qing‐Feng
Published: February 2025

Roselle extract (RE) is rich in anthocyanins and chlorogenic acids. This study investigated the health‐promoting effects of RE on lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, glycometabolism, and gut microbiota in obese mice fed a high‐fat diet (HFD). The obesity model was induced by feeding mice a HFD, with RE supplementation added to their drinking water at concentrations of 2 and 4 mg/mL for 12 weeks. RE significantly reduced body weight gain and fat accumulation compared to the control group, alleviated hepatic steatosis, and improved insulin sensitivity. Additionally, RE restored antioxidative enzyme activities such as SOD and GSH‐PX while reducing MDA levels. Transcriptomic analysis of the liver was performed to evaluate gene expression related to lipid metabolism, particularly in the PPAR signaling pathway. Gut microbiota analysis showed that RE increased beneficial bacteria and reduced the Firmicutes‐to‐Bacteroidetes ratio, suggesting an improvement in gut dysbiosis caused by the HFD. RE enhanced lipid metabolism, reduced oxidative stress, and improved insulin sensitivity in obese mice, potentially through modulation of the PPAR signaling pathway and gut microbiota, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic candidate for obesity‐related metabolic disorders.
Usefulness of the WAIS‐IV Short Form for Measuring Cognitive Function in Patients With Schizophrenia
Authors: Ito Satsuki , Sumiyoshi Chika , Matsumoto Junya , Miura Kenichiro , Yasuda Yuka , Hasegawa Naomi , Takano Harumasa , Sumiyoshi Tomiki , Hashimoto Ryota
Published: February 2025

Schizophrenia causes cognitive dysfunction. The assessment of cognitive function is important in the treatment of schizophrenia. The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) is used to assess cognitive function in patients with psychiatric disorders. For clinical use, a short form of the WAIS‐III was developed in Japan specifically for patients with schizophrenia, allowing the estimation of IQ using the Similarities and Symbol Search. In the present study, we examined whether the same tasks could be used on the short form of the WAIS‐IV. The subjects were 110 patients with schizophrenia. Using methods consistent with those employed in developing the WAIS‐III short form, exploratory factor analysis was conducted to confirm the factor structure of intelligence in patients with schizophrenia. Regression analysis demonstrated that the Similarities and Symbol Search had sufficient explanatory power for estimating full‐scale IQ. Additionally, correlation analysis revealed a positive relationship between estimated IQ, and social functioning. These findings indicate that the short form of the WAIS‐IV, consisting of the Similarities and Symbol Search, meets the necessary criteria for practical use. This short form provides an efficient alternative for estimating cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia while maintaining enough validity.
Comparing Low‐Frequency Hearing Thresholds between Insert Earphones and Headphones in Ears with Tympanic Membrane Perforations
Authors: Hsu Anna , AL Nemer Sarah H. , Kfoury Peter , Stout Jordan , Holley Anna , Stone Caitlin , Firpo Matthew , Park Albert
Published: February 2025

Objective

To compare hearing thresholds at 250 and 500 Hz in pediatric patients with tympanic membrane perforations (TMP) using RadioEar IP30 insert earphones and RadioEar TDH50s 3045 supra‐aural headphones

Study Design

Prospective clinical pilot study.

Setting

Primary Children's Hospital, Utah.

Methods

Children (<18 years of age) were prospectively enrolled into 2 groups based on the presence of TMPs (no TMP, TMP). Hearing thresholds were measured at 250 and 500 Hz using RadioEar IP30 insert earphones and RadioEar TDH50s 3045 supra‐aural headphones for all participants.

Results

At 250 and 500 Hz, hearing thresholds were significantly higher when recorded with insert earphones than with supra‐aural headphones in pediatric participants with TMPs. At 250 Hz, thresholds obtained with inserts were 14.7 ± 7.2 dB (P < .001) higher than thresholds obtained with supra‐aural headphones and 8.0 ± 7.5 dB higher (P < .01) at 500 Hz.

Conclusion

Low‐frequency hearing thresholds were significantly higher when measured with insert earphones in patients with TMPsbut not in patients without TMPs. A diagnosis of low‐frequency hearing loss must be interpreted with caution when using insert earphones in participants with TMPs.
Policy Design Spaces in Brazil's and Argentina's Digital Government
Authors: Lui Lizandro , de Avelino Ciro Pitangueira
Published: February 2025

The article aims to investigate the development of the digital transformation agenda in Latin America to understand which factors have been essential for countries to achieve effectiveness in their policy design. We conducted a qualitative study based on document analysis and interviews with public managers in Brazil and Argentina. We found that both countries have developed policies to build the digital government agenda since 2015. We identify the growing political prestige the agenda has gained within each country and the institutional support of organizations such as the Organization for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD). However, technical capacity challenges must be addressed, especially in retaining qualified human resources within the state bureaucracy. The article argues that the design space framework, although sharp, fails to embrace features of the Latin American context, such as the brain drain and the inability of the state to retain highly qualified professionals.
The Impact of Teacher Social‐Emotional Competence Training on Students' Social‐Emotional Competence: A Theoretical Framework Based on the KAB Model and Empirical Analysis Using SSES Data
Authors: Li Dayin , Qian Mengting
Published: February 2025

The study aimed to examine the impact of social‐emotional competence (SEC) training for teachers on adolescents' SEC and to explore the underlying mechanisms. Based on the KAB behavior change model, this study constructs an analytical framework and empirically analyzes the intrinsic connection between teacher SEC training and students' SEC using data from 3,588 participants in the SSES project. The findings indicate that students taught by teachers with higher participation in SEC training achieved SEC scores that were 5.08 points higher on average than those taught by teachers with lower participation. Among the various aspects, teacher SEC training has the greatest impact on students' collaboration skills and the least impact on openness. Furthermore, the analysis of the mechanism through which teacher SEC training affects students' SEC reveals that this impact is statistically significant and is mediated by teachers' teaching attitudes and methods. While teacher SEC training has a significant impact on teachers' teaching methods, this impact is not unilaterally transmitted but is moderated by teacher‐student relationships. The research results show that offering SEC training for teachers can positively impact students' SEC and highlight the important role of teachers’ attitudes and methods in this process.
Teachers' Perceived Interplay Between Emotional Intelligence, School Climate and Burnout: A Mixed‐Method Study
Authors: Postigo‐Zegarra Silvia , Valero‐Moreno Selene , Romero‐Reignier Virginia , Schoeps Konstanze
Published: February 2025

The conservation of resources (COR) model has accumulated sufficient evidence to explain burnout in a variety of professions, including teachers, based on the relationship between organizational demands and personal resources, and its development from emotional exhaustion, cynicism and decreased self‐actualization, in that order. From a holistic perspective, the purpose of this study was to provide evidence on this relationship in teacher burnout, analyzing the influence of school climate as a demand and emotional intelligence as a resource. The design is cross‐sectional and combines quantitative self‐report data with qualitative focus group data. The analysis comprised fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis (Fs/QCA) and thematic analysis, respectively. The results suggest different relationships between school climate and emotional intelligence for each of the dimensions of teacher burnout. These findings emphasize that emotional intelligence and contextual factors can help teachers introduce emotional education in the classroom without being perceived as an overload but as an added resource.
Unterwasser‐Pumpspeicherkraftwerke im Tagebauloch, Teil 2: Ideale Kurzzeit‐Stromspeicher
Authors: Luther Gerhard , Düren Michael , Risse Henry , Schmidt-Böcking Horst
Published: February 2025

Die deutsche Energiewende setzt aus Effizienzgründen auf eine weitgehende Elektrifizierung der gesamten Energiewirtschaft. Zur neuen Primärenergie wird elektrischer Strom mit den Hauptpfeilern Photovoltaik und Windenergie. Diese Stromerzeugung folgt jedoch starr dem aktuellen Dargebot an regenerativer Energie. Dadurch entsteht eine Differenz zum aktuellen Verbrauch, die vor allem über Kurzzeit‐Stromspeicher abgefangen werden muss. Teil 1 hat Unterwasser‐Pumpspeicherkraftwerke in Tagebaulöchern als sinnvollste Lösung für Kurzzeit‐Speicher eingeführt. Teil 2 stellt das Zweispeichermodell vor. Es kombiniert Kurzzeitspeicher auf Basis von Pumpspeicherkraftwerken oder Akkumulatoren mit Langzeit‐/Backup‐Speichern vor allem auf Basis von regenerativem Wasserstoff. Danach folgt die Diskussion zweier Kraftwerksvarianten in Tagebaulöchern, neben dem Unterwasser‐Pumpspeicherkraftwerk das Ringspeicherkraftwerk.
Properties and Mechanism of Flame Retardant Poly(Lactic Acid) Composites Containing Phosphaphenanthrene‐Hydroxyl Phenyl Maleimide Derivative
Authors: Long Lijuan , Nie Xiang , Wang Xin , Shan Chunyan , Qin Shuhao , Gong Wei , Hai Fu , Yu Jie
Published: February 2025

A derivative based on 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide and maleimide units with terminal hydroxyl group (DH) was synthesized and incorporated in poly(lactic acid) (PLA). The properties and mechanism of PLA/DH composites were investigated. The results showed that PLA composites under 10 wt% DH load achieved vertical combustion test (UL‐94) V‐0 rating with an increased limiting oxygen index (LOI) of 27.2% and a 15.8% decrease in peak heat release rate. The prominent flame retardant efficiency of DH in PLA was attributed to its excellent flame inhibition and diluting effects in gaseous phase as well as a certain cross‐linked structure in the condensed phase. Specifically, the elongation at break of PLA/DH‐7.5 was increased by 17.6% in comparison to that of pure PLA. DH with terminal hydroxyl group displayed enhanced interaction and good compatibility with PLA, thus endowing good comprehensive performances to PLA. As a result, the combination of phosphaphenanthrene and maleimide units with terminal hydroxyl group provides a facile and effective method to improve the flame retardancy and mechanical properties of PLA.
High Driving Capability of Dual Gate, Dual Sweep Amorphous InGaO Thin Film Transistor by N2O Plasma Treatment, Exhibiting Similar Drain Current to P‐Type Poly‐Si Device
Authors: Sun Jiwon , Bae Jinbaek , Lim Taebin , Jeong Myeonggi , Nahar Sabiqun , Kim Yuna , Jang Jin
Published: February 2025

The effect of dual gate (DG), dual sweep (DS) on the performance of amorphous indium‐gallium‐oxide (a‐IGO) thin film transistors (TFTs) is investigated. The DG, DS a‐IGO TFTs exhibit a field‐effect mobility (μFE) of 52.8 cm2 V−1 s−1, high on/off drain current ratio (ION/IOFF) of ≈1010, and low subthreshold swing (SS) of 0.10 V dec−1. In addition, the a‐IGO TFTs show excellent operation stabilities under both positive bias temperature stress (PBTS) or negative bias temperature stress (NBTS). The shift of threshold voltage (VTH) is +0.3 V for PBTS at +20 and −0.1 V for NBTS at −20 V for 1 h. The drain currents of DG, DS a‐IGO TFTs are similar to p‐type poly‐Si TFTs which are being used for products with active‐matrix organic light‐emitting diode. The results can be well‐fitted by technology computer‐aided design simulation with the density of states in the gap. It is noted that the conduction band tails of a‐IGO are much lower than those of conventional a‐IGZO TFTs.
Structural Design and Optoelectronic Performance Study of Heterojunction Light‐Emitting Transistor
Authors: Lin Juncheng , Su Wenjuan , Chen Chao , Lin Yibin , Ye Jinyu , Zhou Xiongtu , Guo Tailiang , Wu Chaoxing , Zhang Yongai
Published: February 2025

Microlight‐emitting diodes (Micro‐LEDs) offer numerous unique advantages in terms of materials, devices, technologies, and process applications. To enable control of LEDs with low current input, a heterojunction integrated light‐emitting transistor (H‐LET) device is proposed. By vertically integrating a heterojunction bipolar transistor (HBT) with a Micro‐LED, a multifunctional optoelectronic device capable of light emission, modulation, and driving functions is achieved. The structure incorporates wide‐bandgap aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN) material into the emission region, forming a heterojunction with GaN. This significantly enhances electron injection efficiency and current gain. Under low current drive, the H‐LET device achieves a current gain of up to 650. This results in superior current regulation and high‐frequency response compared to homojunction light‐emitting transistors. The H‐LET shows significant potential for applications in smart lighting, high‐definition displays, radio frequency systems, and high‐speed communication.
Improved Grey Wolf‐Differential Evolution Algorithm for UAV OAM‐MDI‐QKD Parameter Optimization
Authors: Wu Dan , Li Jiahao , Cui Xile , Deng Zhifeng , Tang Jie , Cao Yuexiang , Liu Ying , Hu Haoran , Wang Ya , Wang XingYu , Yu Huicun , Wei Jiahua , Lun Huazhi , Shi Lei
Published: February 2025

The integration of unconditional security of quantum key distribution (QKD) with the flexibility of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) presents significant potential for the deployment of comprehensive quantum networks. However, imperfect components of practical QKD systems offer avenues for eavesdropping, while the limited payload capacity and vibrations of UAVs present substantial challenges. This paper introduces an orbital angular momentum (OAM) encoding strategy combined with decoy‐state and the measurement‐device‐independent QKD (MDI‐QKD) protocol to address security issues and reference frame misalignment in UAV‐based QKD systems. Nevertheless, the communication performance of the OAM‐MDI‐QKD system is significantly affected by complex environmental challenges in the airborne channel. To improve the degraded communication performance in airborne platforms, an enhanced grey wolf optimization‐differential evolution (GWO‐DE) algorithm is developed, utilizing chaotic mapping and a nonlinear decay factor to strengthen global search and convergence capabilities, which effectively addresses the search limitations of local search algorithms (LSA) when dealing with high‐dimensional objective functions. Simulation results demonstrate that the GWO‐DE algorithm outperforms other traditional optimization algorithms in terms of optimization precision and transmission distance enhancement, with computational speed meeting system requirements.
Recurrent Neurogenic Pulmonary Edema Associated With Epileptic Seizures
Authors: Enomoto Takanori , Sekiya Reina , Sasaki Yoshihiko , Hosoe Tsugumi , Fujimoto Hazuki , Tsukamoto Rei , Yoshizaki Asuka , Terashita Tomomi , Kamada Hiroshi , Nakata Kyosuke
Published: February 2025

Neurogenic pulmonary edema (NPE) is acute pulmonary edema triggered by an injury to the central nervous system. NPE associated with epileptic seizures is less common and not well known to recur. We report a case of a 51‐year‐old woman with NPE with recurrent epileptic seizures. The patient was brought to our hospital with two episodes of clonic convulsions. Imaging studies obtained on admission showed bilateral infiltration in the upper lobes of both lungs. The patient was discharged after receiving antiepileptic drugs. NPE may recur with epileptic seizures.
Downsizing Overlap Stenting for Bronchial Anastomotic Dehiscence Size Mismatch in Lung Transplant
Authors: Vaca‐Cartagena Bryan F. , Funes‐Ferrada Rodrigo , Yu Lee‐Mateus Alejandra , Barrios‐Ruiz Alanna , Valdes‐Camacho Sofia , Alvarez Francisco , Narula Tathagat , Fernandez‐Bussy Sebastian , Abia‐Trujillo David
Published: February 2025

Bronchial dehiscence is a known complication following lung transplantation. In cases involving extensive airway necrosis and air leaks, bronchoscopic placement of self‐expanding metallic stents provides an effective and safe management strategy. These stents facilitate granulation and tissue reepithelialization. We present a case of bronchial anastomotic dehiscence size mismatch after a lung transplant. This complication was successfully managed using three stents placed via a telescoping technique with flexible bronchoscopy.
Position‐Feedback Integral IDA‐PBC for Constant Matched and Unmatched Disturbances
Authors: Franco Enrico , Ryalat Mutaz
Published: February 2025

This work investigates the passivity‐based control of a class of underactuated mechanical systems subject to constant matched and unmatched disturbances, for which the momenta are not measured. The main contribution is a new design of the integral interconnection‐and‐damping assignment passivity‐based control that only relies on position feedback. Numerical simulations on a disk‐on‐disk system, on an Acrobot system, and on a rigid‐link model representative of a soft continuum manipulator demonstrate the effectiveness of the new controller.
Mixed Valence Copper Oxide (CuOx) as Active Catalyst for Glucose Electrochemical Sensor
Authors: Ma Rao , Xiao Xin , Feng Ziwei , Jiang Ke , Hu Rong , Meng Shuang , Yang Tong , Huang Long
Published: February 2025

Detecting glucose levels in food & beverages and body fluids is crucial for health management and disease diagnosis. Developing a highly efficient and durable catalyst is essential for glucose electrochemical sensor. Herein, we reported copper oxides with tuned structure as catalyst for glucose electro‐oxidation by simple hydrothermal method. Formaldehyde, trisodium citrate, and ascorbic acid were adopted as reductant for the synthesis of copper oxides. The surface structure and glucose electro‐oxidation activity of as‐synthesized copper oxides were carefully studied. The surface valence of copper was greatly influenced by the reductant, and the enhanced Cu+ content in the surface was believed to account for the improved activity toward glucose electro‐oxidation. When using formaldehyde as reductant, the resulted CuOx‐FA exhibited the best activity toward glucose electro‐oxidation with the detection limit as low as 0.1 µM and showed a wide linear detection range of 0.1 µM ∼ 1 mM. The CuOx‐FA also showed fast response, good anti‐interference ability, and excellent durability, which makes it a promising catalyst for glucose electrochemical sensor.
In‐Situ Hydrogenation Strategies on Vanadium Oxide Hole‐Selective Contact for Efficiency Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells
Authors: Xie Anzhi , Nong Qingxian , Shang Kaiming , Sun Yiwei , He Jian , Gao Pingqi
Published: February 2025

Surface passivation and contact resistance are two main parameters to optimize the photoelectric performance of crystalline silicon/transition metal oxides (c‐Si/TMO) heterojunction solar cells. However, most studies focus on the introduction of dielectric layers at the heterojunction interface to improve the passivating contact performance, with limited attention given to optimizing the TMO film for improved photoelectric performance. Herein, an in‐situ hydrogen plasma treatment (HPT) process is employed to modulate the photoelectric properties of vanadium oxide (V2Ox) film as well as the c‐Si/V2Ox interface. With increased O vacancy density in V2Ox film and increased H bonds at c‐Si/V2Ox interface, this c‐Si/HPT‐V2Ox contact shows reduced contact resistivity and improved passivation properties. A satisfied power conversion efficiency (PCE) of close to 23% is achieved on p‐type c‐Si solar cells with full area HPT‐V2Ox rear hole selective contacts. The results show the high potential of V2Ox as thermal and environmental stable hole selective contact for photovoltaic applications.
Oxygen Vacancy‐Tailored n‐Type MXenes for Efficient Thermoelectric Energy Harvesting
Authors: Wan Zhiliang , Liu Xiaofang , Liu Cheng , Liu Congcong , Liu Peipei , Tan Rongri , Zhang Qiang , Chen Zhihong , Xu Jingkun , Jiang Fengxing
Published: February 2025

MXene is an emerging 2D electronic material, which has attracted extensive attention in the fields of energy conversion and storage, electromagnetic shielding, and catalysis, etc. MXene has a wide range of types, and its abundant surface terminations and vacancy defects make it have a unique and adjustable electronic structure. Among them, oxygen vacancy (VO) regulation is considered to be one of the most effective methods. However, it mainly relies on natural defects caused by chemical etching in preparation leading to difficult control in VO contents. Here, an electrochemical method is proposed and successfully achieve regulation of VO within a certain range in Ti3C2Tx MXene. This fact is that the VO stems from the elimination of partial ‒OH groups. It is further confirmed that the VO manipulation greatly increases its electrical conductivity (σ) from 1400 to 4052.3 S cm−1, and is insensitive to Seebeck coefficient (S), resulting in a 4‐folds higher thermoelectric power factor (S2σ) with good environmental stability. Systematic investigations including material structure, energy band, temperature dependence, etc., are performed to explore the VO decoupling σ and S of VO‐Ti3C2Tx. This work provides a feasible strategy for the fabrication of high‐performance electronic MXene, such as thermoelectric energy harvesting.
Tradeoff between Mechanical Strength and Electrical Conductivity of MXene Films by Nacre‐Inspired Subtractive Manufacturing
Authors: Rong Chao , Su Ting , Chu Tianshu , Zhu Mingliang , Zhang Bowei , Xuan Fu‐Zhen
Published: February 2025

Traditional strategies, by additive manufacturing, for integrating monolayer Ti3C2Tx nanosheets into macroscopic films with binders can effectively improve their mechanical strength, but the electrical conductivity is often sacrificed. Herein, inspired by the aligned nano‐compacted feature of nacre, a flexible subtractive manufacturing strategy is reported to squeeze the interlayer 2D spacings by removing the nanoconfined water and interface terminations, leading to the improvement of mechanical strength and stability of Ti3C2Tx layered films without sacrificing the electrical conductivity. After the vacuum annealing of Ti3C2Tx films at 300 °C (A300), the interlayer 2D spacing decreased ≈0.1 nm with the surface functional groups (═O, ─OH, ─F) and interlayer water molecules greatly removed. The tensile strength (95.59 MPa) and Young's modulus (9.59 GPa) of A300 are ≈3 and ≈2 times improved, respectively. Moreover, the A300 films maintain a metallic electrical conductivity (2276 S cm−1) and show greatly enhanced stability. Compared to the original films, the mechanical strength of the A300 films is enhanced by increasing the interlayer friction and energy dissipation with the decrease of interlayer 2D spacings. This work provides a new way for engineering the self‐assembled films with more functions for broad applications.
Fabricating Microstructures on Freeform Surfaces via Flexible Hydrogel Micromolds
Authors: Zhu Pang , Hosneolfat Zahra , Nekoonam Niloofar , Bhagwat Sagar , Helmer Dorothea , Rapp Bastian E.
Published: February 2025

Fabricating microstructures on curved surfaces is of great importance in several engineering fields, and it is an ongoing challenge to develop technologies that do not require complicated devices and cumbersome procedures. A novel approach is presented for fabricating microstructures with different topographies on curved surfaces using flexible microstructured hydrogels as molds. The hydrogel film is first microstructured via spatially controlled ultraviolet illumination utilizing its photo‐responsive property. The microstructured hydrogel film is then transferred to a desired surface. Due to its low modulus, the hydrogel film can be adapted to the curved surfaces including semi‐cylindrical and semi‐spherical surfaces as well as freeform surfaces with both convex and concave features. The final freeform surfaces with microstructures are obtained by polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) casting. The resulting microstructures show high uniformity and high surface smoothness with an average roughness (Ra) ≈2.7 nm and a root mean square roughness (Rq) ≈4.1 nm. The ability to fabricate microstructures on large‐area curved surfaces of ≈4.5 cm by 6.5 cm is demonstrated. Finally, it is shown that the fabricated microstructures allow good imaging performance. This method utilizes the hydrogel's photo‐responsive ability to construct flexible molds and flexibility to adapt to freeform surfaces, thereby allowing significantly simplified fabrication processes.
Fluoride Graphdiyne Enhances Polymer Electrolytes Through Regional Electric Potential Synergies for High‐Performance Solid‐State Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Kaihang , Jiang Chao , Zhang Luwei , Yang Ze , Zhang Chunfang , Wang Ning
Published: February 2025

Solid‐state polymer electrolytes (SSPEs) have attracted considerable attention for use in all‐solid‐state lithium‐metal batteries (ASSLMBs). However, their low Li‐ion conductivity, small Li‐ion transference number, and poor interfacial compatibility hinder their practical application, which may be associated with the uncoordinated interactions between the key components in SSPEs including polymers, lithium salts, and nanofillers. In this study, fluoride graphdiyne (FGDY) is used as a nanofiller to enhance the overall performance of PVDF‐HFP/LiTFSI in ASSLMBs through regional electric potential synergies (REPS), which refers to the proper interaction between particular ordered electric potential difference regions in the 2D plane and key components of SSPEs. Consequently, the dissociation of LiTFSI is promoted, and the migration of Li‐ions is accelerated. Moreover, a uniform LiF‐rich solid electrolyte interphase efficiently inhibits the growth of lithium dendrites, guaranteeing excellent interfacial stability. The assembled Li//LiFePO4 and Li//LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 full cells exhibit excellent reversible capacity and stable cycling performance at 30 °C. This study presents a strategy for improving the overall performance of SSPEs by fabricating nanofillers with highly ordered electric potential difference regions. Graphdiyne‐based materials, which serve as nanofillers to optimize the performance of SSPEs through REPS, provide a wide scope for the practical application of ASSLMBs.
Enhancing the Thermoelectric Performance of Sustainable Cellulose‐Based Ionogels Through Water Content Regulation
Authors: Chen Xuhui , Lin Yue , Chen Binxia , Duan Ruoxuan , Zhou Zehang , Lu Canhui
Published: February 2025

Ionogels are widely studied as promising ionic thermoelectric (i‐TE) materials to harvest low‐grade waste heat into electrical energy due to their huge thermopower and good ionic conductivity, providing a feasible way to sustainable development. Herein, a p‐type i‐TE cellulose ionogel (CIG) based on Soret effect is prepared by dissolving cellulose in an ionic liquid (IL) and subsequent water‐absorbing induced gelation. Its morphological structure and IL distribution are intuitively investigated through cryo‐focused ion beam‐scanning electron microscope. Experimental characterizations and molecular dynamic simulation studies elucidate that the regulation of water content induces the hydration of 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium cation and the swelling of CIG, which greatly promotes the ions diffusion and expands the difference in mobility between anions and cations. The proposed CIG exhibits superior thermoelectric properties: an ionic conductivity of 51.2 mS cm−1, an ionic Seebeck coefficient of 20.7 mV K−1, and an ionic figure of merit zTi of 2.36 at 30 °C, respectively. A CIG‐based i‐TE device is designed and assembled to demonstrate its great potential for wearable body heat‐to‐electricity conversion. The cellulose skeleton in CIG is completely biodegradable in nature and the used IL is recyclable and reusable, providing a green and sustainable strategy for energy harvesting.
An Approach to Develop Correct‐by‐Construction Business Process Models Using a Formal Domain Specific Language
Authors: Bendaly Hlaoui Yousra , Ayari Salma
Published: February 2025

As the size and the complexity of business process models are an important driver of error probability, it is recommended to split large models into smaller models. Hence, we propose, in this paper, to develop business process models by refinement. A refinement is a transformation of a source model to a target model expressed in the same modeling language. This transformation should preserve the semantics of the source model to provide semantically correct target model. Thus, we propose, in this paper, a domain specific language based on Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) language for developing by refinement business process models correct‐by‐construction. Hence, we propose (i) a formal syntax throughout a context‐free grammar , (ii) axiomatic semantics to ensure the refinement correction when building business process models, (iii) operational semantics in terms of Kripke structure permitting formal verification of provided models to check their reliability. The Kripke structure supports the verification of behavioral requirements represented by the Computational Tree Logic (CTL) temporal logic and verified by NuSMV model checker. Based on these semantics, we prove the validity of the compiler that we have developed to assist developers when building their correct models and to transform these models to NuSMV code to prove their reliability.
In‐Situ Monitoring the Magnetotransport Signature of Topological Transitions in a Chiral Magnet
Authors: Thomas Andy , Pohl Darius , Tahn Alexander , Schlörb Heike , Schneider Sebastian , Kriegner Dominik , Beckert Sebastian , Vir Praveen , Winter Moritz , Felser Claudia , Rellinghaus Bernd
Published: February 2025

Emerging magnetic fields related to the presence of topologically protected spin textures such as skyrmions are expected to give rise to additional, topology‐related contributions to the Hall effect. In order to doubtlessly identify this so‐called topological Hall effect, it is crucial to disentangle such contributions from the anomalous Hall effect. This necessitates a direct correlation of the transversal Hall voltage with the underlying magnetic textures. A novel measurement platform is developed that allows to acquire high‐resolution Lorentz transmission electron microscopy images of magnetic textures as a function of an external magnetic field and to concurrently measure the (anomalous) Hall voltage in‐situ in the microscope on one and the same specimen. This approach is used to investigate the transport signatures of the chiral soliton lattice and antiskyrmions in Mn1.4PtSn. Notably, the observed textures allow to fully understand the measured Hall voltage without the need of any additional contributions due to a topological Hall effect, and the field‐controlled formation and annihilation of anstiskyrmions are found to have no effect on the measured Hall voltage.
InteropUnityCUDA: A Tool for Interoperability Between Unity and CUDA
Authors: Algis David , Bramas Berenger , Darles Emmanuelle , Aveneau Lilian
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Unity is a powerful and versatile tool for creating real‐time experiments. It includes a built‐in compute shader language, a C‐like programming language designed for massively parallel General‐Purpose GPU (GPGPU) computing. However, as Unity is primarily developed for multi‐platform game creation, its compute shader language has several limitations, including the lack of multi‐GPU computation support and incomplete mathematical libraries.

Contribution

To address these limitations, GPU manufacturers have developed specialized programming models, such as CUDA and HIP, which enable developers to leverage the full computational power of modern GPUs. This article introduces an open‐source tool designed to bridge the gap between Unity and CUDA, allowing developers to integrate CUDA's capabilities within Unity‐based projects.

Methods

The proposed solution establishes an interoperability framework that facilitates communication between Unity and CUDA. The tool is designed to efficiently transfer data, execute CUDA kernels, and retrieve results, ensuring seamless integration into Unity's rendering and computation pipeline.

Results

Our tool extends Unity's capabilities by enabling CUDA‐based computations, overcoming the inherent limitations of Unity's compute shader language. This integration allows developers to exploit multi‐GPU architectures, leverage advanced mathematical functions, and enhance computational performance for real‐time applications.
Comparison Study of the Effect of MgO, MgO‐CaO, MgO‐Al2O3‐C, and MgO‐C Refractories on Cleanliness of a SiMn‐Killed Steel
Authors: Cheng Yujie , Duan Shengchao , Zhang Lifeng
Published: February 2025

The effects of four kinds of industrial MgO‐based refractories (MgO, MgO‐CaO, MgO‐Al2O3‐C, and MgO‐C) on the refractory/steel interfacial layer and inclusions in SiMn‐killed steel are investigated through laboratory experiments and thermodynamic calculations. After 60 min of contact, the penetration of the molten SiMn‐killed steel into the MgO, MgO‐CaO, and MgO‐Al2O3‐C refractories is minimal. In the MgO‐C refractory, a penetration depth of 1 mm is observed along grain boundaries. For MgO and MgO‐C refractories, a distinct interfacial layer is hardly found. The MgO‐CaO refractory produces an ≈20 μm thick CaO‐SiO2‐MgO interfacial layer, while the MgO‐Al2O3‐C refractory produces an ≈30 μm thick MgO‐Al2O3‐SiO2 interfacial layer. Regarding the experiments involving the MgO and MgO‐CaO refractories, the content of T.Mg and T.Al in the steel shows minimal variation. Consequently, the composition of inclusions remains largely unchanged. MgO‐Al2O3‐C and MgO‐C refractories significantly influenced the chemical reaction. The T.Mg content in the steel increases due to the presence of graphite phase in the refractory, and the T.Al content in the steel rises due to the dissolution of Al and Al2O3 particles from the refractories. Inclusions in the steel are transformed from the initial SiO2‐MnO type to spinel inclusions.
Drilling Performance and Surface Integrity of Hardened 42CrMo Steel in Clean Ultrasonic Vibration Hybrid Drilling Process
Authors: Li Wei , Zheng Guangming , Jiang Xiuli , Ma Jinhao , Cheng Xiang , Cui Enzhao , Yang Xianhai
Published: February 2025

42CrMo steel has high strength, good toughness, and other excellent mechanical properties, making it the preferred material for gear, drive shaft, and other key components. However, after heat treatment of such materials, there will still be serious machining problems during the drilling process. Herein, the clean ultrasonic vibration hybrid drilling process, which combines ultrasonic vibration technology with clean cutting technology (using media such as dry, liquid nitrogen (LN2), cold air, and minimum quantity lubrication (MQL)), is used to investigate the drilling performance and surface integrity of 42CrMo steel. The results show that both cutting force and cutting temperature are reduced under low temperature and MQL conditions compared to dry conditions. At the same time, a notable extension of tool life is obtained under these drilling conditions. MQL demonstrates effective cooling and lubrication properties, enhancing the chip‐breaking ability of ultrasonic vibration. In comparison to ultrasonic‐assisted drilling (UAD) (dry) conditions, the surface roughness under UAD (MQL) conditions is decreased by 45%, while the maximum microhardness is increased by 13%. The drilling accuracy is significantly improved. Consequently, UAD (MQL) can remarkably improve the hard drilling performance and surface integrity of 42CrMo steel.
Examining Power in Picturebook Biographies
Authors: Chung Sunah , Chaudhri Amina
Published: February 2025

This study was developed in response to the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) position statement elevating the use of nonfiction literature in the K‐12 curriculum. Using an intersectional, critical multicultural lens, we examined award‐winning picturebook biographies for their potential to invite examination of the concept of power following two guiding questions: “how do subjects acquire power?” and “how do subjects use their power?” The findings show that most subjects of biographies are depicted as having intrinsic power that comes from within and is used to pursue a personal dream. A smaller number of books depict subjects as having collective power, acquired within the contexts of their communities and subsequently using their power to uplift their communities. The teaching implications include suggestions for unpacking abstract ideas about power through picturebook biographies in tangible ways with elementary grade readers.
The Roots and Ramifications of Criminology’s Progressive Ethos: Navigating Theory, Practice, and Politics
Authors: Aebi Marcelo F.
Published: February 2025

This chapter examines the complex relationship between criminology and progressivism, tracing its intellectual foundations from the Enlightenment to contemporary debates in the field. It argues that criminology’s progressive ethos, rooted in Enlightenment principles of reason, empirical evidence, and social improvement, has fundamentally shaped the discipline’s development while creating tensions between different approaches to crime reduction. The chapter identifies two main contemporary criminological traditions that emerged in the 1970s: reform-oriented criminology, exemplified by Marxist and critical approaches that seek radical social transformation, and problem-solving criminology, represented by opportunity-based theories focusing on practical interventions. Through an analysis of these competing perspectives, the chapter shows how both approaches, despite their methodological and ideological differences, share a fundamental commitment to social progress. Using the debate surrounding the 1990s crime drop in the United States as a case study, the author illustrates how ideological biases can influence criminological analysis and interpretation of evidence. The chapter argues that reform-oriented criminologists often dismiss evidence supporting police effectiveness due to ideological reservations, while problem-solving criminologists may overlook broader social factors in favor of immediate tactical solutions. The author concludes that advancing criminological knowledge requires recognizing the complementary nature of these approaches rather than treating them as mutually exclusive. This synthesis suggests that effective crime prevention requires both systemic social reforms and practical situational interventions, highlighting the need for methodological pluralism in criminological research. The chapter ultimately calls for a more nuanced understanding of progress in criminology that bridges theoretical divides while maintaining scientific rigor.
Observing, Measuring, and Researching Cybercrime: A Scoping Review of Systematic Reviews Since 2010s
Authors: Caneppele Stefano
Published: February 2025

This chapter examines the definitions of cybercrime and the research approaches employed to study it, focusing on data types and analytical methods identified in manuscripts included in systematic reviews published between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2021. The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of scholarly efforts to study and empirically measure cybercrime and test hypotheses in recent years. Specifically, the chapter delves into the types of data utilized and the analytical techniques applied in cybercrime research. The majority of empirical studies on cybercrime have been published in journals across a range of disciplines, reflecting the broad interest that the emergence of cybercrime has generated within the scientific community. The results show that most studies rely on surveys with limited sample sizes, raising concerns about generalizability. It identifies commonly studied cybercrimes, tested theories, and the data and methods used. However, contributions from criminologists to this field have been relatively limited. That said, there is a growing recognition of the importance of cybercrime within criminology, and an increasing number of criminologists are now engaging with this subject. These scholars are grappling with challenges related to defining and measuring cybercrime—issues that are particularly pronounced in the social sciences when addressing novel and rapidly evolving phenomena. While progress has been made in understanding cybercrime, significant gaps remain in empirical measurement and theoretical conceptualization. Continued research investment and evolving statistical systems are essential for better capturing and analyzing cybercrime trends.
State-of-the-Art and Related Work
Authors: Muff Fabian
Published: February 2025

This chapter introduces the state-of-the-art in research and industry in the areas relevant to this book. In addition, related work is introduced. The chapter is structured as follows. Section 2.1 introduces the foundations of the modeling area, including conceptual modeling, enterprise modeling, and metamodeling. Section 2.2 presents the foundations for extended reality. This includes introductions to virtual reality, augmented reality, and the metaverse, as well as some distinctions of the different technologies in the context of this work. Section 2.3 discusses related work by showing the finding of a comprehensive literature analysis.
Specific Requirements for Metamodeling for Extended Reality
Authors: Muff Fabian
Published: February 2025

To combine metamodeling with extended reality, different requirements have to be met. This chapter introduces new concepts necessary for the combination of the two domains and derives specific requirements for metamodeling environments considering VR and AR in different ways.
ARWFMM: A Modeling Method as an Example for Knowledge-Based Virtual and Augmented Reality
Authors: Muff Fabian
Published: February 2025

Parts of this chapter have been published in a similar form as a research paper in: Conceptual Modeling. ER 2023. Lecture Notes in Computer Science, vol 14320 with the title:
A Domain-Specific Visual Modeling Language for Augmented Reality Applications Using WebXR
(Muff and Fill 2023c).