bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiomyocyte Foxp1‐Specific Deletion Promotes Post‐injury Heart Regeneration via Targeting Usp20‐HIF1ɑ‐Hand1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wang Yanfang , Wang Xiaoyu , Fang Ji , Chen Xiaoli , Xu Teng , Zhuang Tao , Peng Sheng , Bao Wenzhen , Wu Wenrun , Lu Yushi , Wang Haikun , Tomlinson Brian , Chan Paul , Zhuang Shougang , Zhang Qi , Zhang Lin , Liu Zhongmin , Pi Jingjiang , Zhang Yuzhen , Liu Jie
Published: February 2025

The adult mammalian heart has limited regenerative capacity to replace lost tissue after a major injury. Forkhead box P1 (Foxp1) regulates embryonic cardiomyocyte proliferation and heart development. However, whether Foxp1 participates in postnatal‐injury cardiomyocyte proliferation and heart regeneration remains unclear. This study demonstrates that Foxp1 is downregulated at border zone cardiomyocytes of both neonatal apical resection and adult myocardial infarction. Analysis of the Single‐cell transcriptome database reveals reduced Foxp1 expression in the cardiomyocyte population with high regenerative capacity. Cardiomyocyte‐Foxp1 loss‐of‐function significantly promotes, whereas cardiomyocytes‐Foxp1 gain‐of‐function suppresses cardiomyocyte proliferation. Mechanistically, Foxp1 directly regulates ubiquitin specific peptidase 20 (USP20), a de‐ubiquitinase that prevents hypoxia inducible factor 1ɑ (HIF1α) degradation. Thus, Foxp1 regulates HIF1α and downstream heart and neural crest derivatives expressed 1 (Hand1) to control the cardiomyocyte proliferation via metabolic transition from fatty acid oxidation to glycolysis. Finally, cardiac type troponin T2 (cTnT)‐promoter‐driven adeno‐associated virus 9 (AAV9) for Hand1 induction in cardiomyocytes significantly promoted cardiac regeneration and functional recovery. These findings may provide novel molecular strategies to promote heart regeneration and therapeutic interventions for heart failure.
Toward a New Understanding of Graphene Oxide Photolysis: The Role of Photoreduction in Degradation Pathway
Authors: Yang Yuchen , Zheng Nanzhi , Ma Chen , Chen Silong , Chen Wenhua , Chen Guohua
Published: February 2025

Graphene oxide (GO) is developed in various applications owing to its fascinating physicochemical properties. However, the weak photostability always leads to inevitable photolysis of GO during the use, storage, and application. Indirect photolysis has a significant impact on the structure of GO via causing fragmentation and degradation, while the pathway can be divided into two stages. In the early stage, photoreduction is the dominant reaction to generate porous reduction GO (PrGO). Then H2O2 breaks PrGO into fragments, and eventually, the fragmented GO is converted into CO2 by OH radicals. The generation of porous structures in early photoreduction is a crucial premise for the subsequent photodegradation, while GO flakes without porous structure cannot be broken by H2O2 and OH. In this work, a deep insight into the indirect photolysis pathway and the committed step is provided, which may bring some advanced ideas for enhancing GO stability in practical application.
Daytime Radiative Cooling Sheet Functionalized by Al2O3‐Assisted Organic Composite
Authors: Park Jaein , Chae Dongwoo , Lim Hangyu , Ha Jisung , Park Seongwoo , Sung Hansang , Park Chanwoong , Lee Heon
Published: February 2025

Daytime radiative cooling presents a compelling technology, noted for its efficiency and environmental friendliness. Recent studies have focused on not only the cooling capacity but also the applicability and versatility of this technology. This study introduces a daytime radiative cooler as a sheet with exceptional cooling performance. Its matrix is composed of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), which are emerging organic materials suitable for radiative cooling. Furthermore, aluminum oxide (Al2O3) is employed as a supporting dielectric particle to enhance cooling performance. An Al2O3‐assisted organic composite (AOC) is created through electrospinning and hot‐pressing, resulting in a bendable sheet form. The AOC sheet demonstrates a light reflectance of 97.9% across the solar spectral region (0.3–2.5 µm) and an emissivity of 95.2% within the atmospheric transparency window (ATW) of 8–13 µm. The cooling power, derived from optical properties, is calculated to be 120.1 Wm−2. Experimental findings confirm the AOC sheet's capability to achieve 4.9 °C below ambient temperature and, when applied to a car model, to reduce the interior temperature by 12.7 °C.
Screening and Development of Sacrificial Cathode Additives for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Haegyeom , Jun KyuJung , Szymanski Nathan , Sai Avvaru Venkata , Cai Zijian , Crafton Matthew , Lee Gi‐Hyeok , Trask Stephen E. , Babbe Finn , Byeon Young‐Woon , Zhong Peichen , Lee Donghun , Park Byungchun , Jung Wangmo , McCloskey Bryan D. , Yang Wanli
Published: February 2025

This work presents a computational screening approach to identify Li‐rich transition‐metal oxide sacrificial cathode additives and provides experimental validation of antifluorite‐structured Li6MnO4 as a potential candidate. Initial attempts to synthesize this compound result in low purity (≤40% by weight) owing to close thermodynamic competition with Li2O and MnO at low temperature. However, it is shown that a much higher purity of 85% by weight can be achieved by combining Li excess with rapid cooling from high temperature, which effectively stabilizes the Li6MnO4 phase. The synthesized product delivers a high irreversible Li release capacity that exceeds 700 mAh g−1 by utilizing combined Mn oxidation (Mn2+/3+ and Mn3+/4+) and O oxidation. These results demonstrate that Li6MnO4 may therefore be useful as a potential sacrificial cathode additive in Li‐ion batteries and motivate further investigation of other structurally‐related compounds. While attempts were made to synthesize two additional compounds among computationally screened candidates, it was not successful to experimentally realize the two candidates. The difficulty of experimental realization of the newly predicted materials remains a challenge and it is suggested that more efforts need to be devoted to developing computational techniques to precisely predict synthesizability and propose potential synthetic routes of the predicted materials.
From Simulation to Reality: Transfer Learning for Automating Pseudo‐Labeling of Real and Infrared Imagery
Authors: Choate Jeffrey , Worth Derek , Nykl Scott L. , Taylor Clark , Borghetti Brett , Schubert Kabban Christine , Raettig Ryan
Published: February 2025

Training a convolutional neural network (CNN) for real‐world applications is challenging due to the requirement of high‐quality labeled imagery. This study employs pseudo‐labeling and transfer learning, built upon a 6D pose estimation framework. A CNN trained on synthetic images predicts bounding boxes (bbox) for an object's components in a real image. With as few as four bbox predictions, the framework solves for the object's pose relative to the camera and reprojects bboxes for all components onto that image. The pose and reprojections allow filtering of bad predictions, a common issue in pseudo‐labeling. Thereby, enabling automated labeling of large datasets with minimal human intervention. Tested on color and long‐wave infrared imagery captured during December 2023 flight tests, this process demonstrates increased predictions, enhanced performance across situations, reduced reprojection error, and stabilized pose predictions. This technique is significant as it enables labeling of real‐world imagery without expensive truth systems, requiring only a camera. It supports learning and labeling of previously captured imagery without known camera calibrations, facilitating labeled data creation for impractical‐to‐simulate sensors. Ultimately, this transfer learning approach provides a low‐cost and precise method for creating CNNs trained on operationally relevant data, previously unattainable by the everyday user.
Medical Image Hybrid Watermark Algorithm Based on Frequency Domain Processing and Inception v3
Authors: Fan Yu , Li Jingbing , Bhatti Uzair Aslam , Nawaz Saqib Ali , Chen Yenwei
Published: February 2025

With the widespread use of digital medical images in recent years, the efficient and secure protection of sensitive data has become an urgent issue. Existing research has mostly focused on optimizing individual techniques, lacking comprehensive solutions that integrate the strengths of different methods. This article proposes a hybrid digital watermarking algorithm for medical images based on frequency domain transformation and deep learning convolutional neural networks. The algorithm combines the advantages of traditional frequency domain watermarking methods and deep learning techniques. Specifically, the algorithm first extracts feature vectors from medical images using discrete wavelet transform and discrete cosine transform, enhancing the robustness of the image watermark. It then integrates an improved Inception v3 network, optimizing the convolutional kernel design, thereby effectively enhancing the robustness of the watermarking process. To further improve the security of the watermark, the Logistic Map is used to scramble and encrypt the watermark information, and a hash function and XOR operation are employed for zero embedding of the watermark. The watermark extraction and decryption process relies on a key provided by a third party, enabling blind extraction of the watermark without requiring the original image. Through extensive experimental data analysis and comparisons with multiple existing algorithms, the results demonstrate that the proposed hybrid watermarking algorithm excels in terms of attack resistance and robustness, significantly improving the security and reliability of medical image watermarking.
Seguir adelante: A qualitative exploration of Latino farmworkers' work and nonwork resources
Authors: Saenz Faviola Robles , Regalado Julissa Castellanos , Martinez Larry , Townley Greg
Published: February 2025

Latino immigrant workers have been an exploited community within many dangerous workforces, but especially within the agricultural industry. They are a crucial population for the labor and economy of the U.S., yet Latino farmworkers report feeling expendable, discriminated against, and exposed to hazardous working conditions. Due to these experiences, it is essential to explore the resources that farmworkers find valuable in improving their working conditions. This study draws upon qualitative interviews conducted with 41 Latino farmworkers in Oregon. Themes pertaining to work and nonwork resources were uncovered through thematic analysis, illustrating that farmworkers receive support from their proximal communities and feel empowered by them, but lack support from their distal communities and need basic work necessities, fair wages, supportive supervisors, legislative labor protection, and a pathway to citizenship. Findings make clear that employers and elected officials must do more to advocate for Latino immigrant farmworkers and provide resources to protect their well‐being. We demonstrate the need for future research related to changes in farmworkers' resources over time, their reporting of workplace violations, the impact of labor legislation on their health, and how information sharing or unionization occurs among farmworkers.
Precise Regulation of Intra‐Nanopore Charge Microenvironment in Covalent Organic Frameworks for Efficient Monovalent Cation Transport
Authors: Jiang Guoxing , Zou Wenwu , Ou Zhaoyuan , Zhang Weifeng , Huo Junlang , Qi Shengguang , Wang Liming , Du Li
Published: February 2025

Charged channels are considered an effective design for achieving efficient monovalent cation transport; however, it remains challenging to establish a direct relationship between charge microenvironments and ionic conductivity within the pores. Herein, we report a series of crystalline covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with identical skeletons but different charge microenvironments and explore their intra‐pore charge‐driven ion transport performance and mechanism differences. We found that the charged nature determines ion‐pair action sites, modes, host‐guest interaction, thereby influencing the dissociation efficiency of ion pairs, the hopping ability of cations, and the effective carrier concentration. The order of transport efficiency for Li+, Na+, and H+ follows anion > zwitterion > cation > neutrality. Ionic COFs exhibit up to 11‐fold higher ionic conductivity than neutral COFs. Notably, the ionic conductivity of anionic COF achieves 2.0 × 10−4 S cm−1 for Li+ at 30 °C and 3.8 × 10−2 S cm−1 for H+ at 160 °C, surpassing most COF‐based ionic conductors. This COF platform for efficient ion migration and stable battery cycling in lithium‐metal quasi‐solid‐state batteries has also been verified as proof of concept. This work offers new insights into the development and structure‐activity relationship studies of the next generation of solid‐state ionic conductors.
Cationic, Iodine(III)‐Mediated and Directed Diastereoselective Oxidation of Inert C–H Bonds in Cyclic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Simonian Nicolas G. , Brutiu Bogdan R. , Kaiser Daniel , Maulide Nuno
Published: February 2025

Over the past three decades, the functionalization of unactivated C–H bonds has become a workhorse of synthesis. In the field of C–H bond oxygenation, most established methods hinge on single‐electron reactivity, encountering challenges pertaining to regio‐ and/or stereocontrol. Herein, we describe a conceptually distinct strategy relying on the unique features of carbocation chemistry. Our iodine(III)‐mediated method achieves the diastereoselective oxygenation of remote C–H bonds at traditionally unreactive sites and enables late‐stage functionalization at steroidal frameworks as well as an unusual chirality relay.
Abnormal Blueshift of Mn d−d Emission Unlocked by Decreasing Phonon Coupling under High Pressure
Authors: Wang Feng , Lv Pengfei , Xiao Guanjun , Zou Bo
Published: February 2025

Mn d−d emission has been a star transition‐metal activated phosphors that were extensively used in optoelectronic devices. However, due to the complex and elusive luminescence mechanism, the full potential of this material remains largely untapped. Here, we designed a core–shell structure of MnS@CdS quantum dots (QDs) to investigate the effect of the internal strain on the Mn emission. Upon pressure processing, an unexpected blueshift of Mn emission was achieved. When the pressure reached a pressure of 2.1 GPa, the conventional redshift of Mn emission reappeared. Remarkable color transition from red to orange and then back to red was observed during pressure treatment. Further analysis revealed that the application of external pressure facilitated the diffusion of Mn atoms into the CdS shell, strengthened host‐dopant coupling and mitigated the lattice mismatch rate within the MnS@CdS QDs. These factors resulted in a reduction in phonon coupling strength and an increase in energy transfer efficiency from the exciton of the CdS host lattice to the Mn dopants, thus ultimately accounting for the abnormal blueshift of Mn d−d emission. Our findings represent a significant breakthrough in the quest for precise control and regulation of Mn‐related emission, offering insights into the underlying luminescence mechanism of Mn emission.
Efficient Methane Purification Using a Robust and Recoverable Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Framework
Authors: Lin Shengjie , Liang Ye , Ke Peiren , Wang Limin , Chen Deli , Zhang Lin , He Yabing
Published: February 2025

Efficient separation and purification of methane is a key step in promoting its wide application as an environmentally friendly energy carrier and an important chemical raw material. Development of single solid adsorbents simultaneously combining robust structure, high separation capacity, and easy performance recovery is highly desired but quite a challenge for realizing methane depuration. In the present study, we report an ultramicroporous hydrogen‐bonded organic framework compound constructed from a tetracyano bithiophene‐functionalized ligand. Similar to the acting principle of enzymes, multisite supramolecular interactions endow the material with not only extraordinary chemical stability in wide pH range including 12 M HCl and 20 M NaOH solutions but also highly selective recognition of acetylene and carbon dioxide over methane. The packing densities and adsorption selectivities toward acetylene and carbon dioxide are the highest reported for the hydrogen‐bonded organic framework materials. Dynamic breakthrough experiments demonstrate its highly efficient methane purification ability from binary and even ternary mixed gases, with not only methane productivities up to 2.34 mol kg−1 but also moderate regeneration energy. Furthermore, the title compound can be easily regenerated in almost quantitative yield via simple rato‐evaporation of its dichloromethane solution once its activity is attenuated or lost.
Mass Activity Elucidation of Cobalt‐Based Oxygen Evolution Catalysts Utilizing Depth‐Resolved Spectroscopy in the Presence of Various Cations with Chloride
Authors: Komiya Hiroki , Obata Keisuke , Sekizawa Oki , Nitta Kiyofumi , Xu Ke , Wada Melody , Takanabe Kazuhiro
Published: February 2025

The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in water electrolysis is a kinetically sluggish reaction that requires catalysts with high electrocatalytic activity. Cobalt oxide (CoOx) is among the best performing OER catalysts and has been reported to have “bulk activity” with active sites distributed within the material. Herein, we examined the distribution of OER activity over μg cm−2 loaded CoOx deposited on anti‐corrosive Ti substrate in 1 M KOH with and without various cations with chloride (X−Cl, X=Li, Na, K). Depth‐resolved X‐ray absorption spectroscopy and depth‐profiling X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were employed. In a thin sample with ~20 nm thickness, uniform oxidation was observed, but a thicker sample with ~80 nm thickness had active oxidized phases close to the surface and an unexpected inactive Co0 phase concurrently occupying about three‐quarters of the CoOx layer in the depth direction, which accounted for the mass activity loss. The formation of Co0 in the bulk is attributed to the galvanic replacement reaction between CoOx and the metallic Ti substrate, which is not observed on the carbon substrate. Operando Raman spectroscopy demonstrated that the type of cations rather than Cl− impacts the OER performance likely due to their interaction with superoxo species.
Innovative asymmetric CoSA‐N‐Ti3C2Tx catalysis: unleashing superoxide radicals for rapid self‐coupling removal of phenolic pollutant
Authors: Li Miao , Feng Zhiyan , Yuan Xingzhong , Guo Chenxu , Qin Chencheng , Shu Zihan , Guo Zhiyan , Ang Edison Huixiang , Li Wenwei , Wu Yan , Wang Hou
Published: February 2025

The polymerization pathway of contaminants rivals the traditional mineralization pathway in water purification technologies. However, designing suitable oxidative environments to steer contaminants toward polymerization remains challenging. This study introduces a nitrogen‐oxygen double coordination strategy to create an asymmetrical microenvironment for Co atoms on Ti3C2Tx MXenes, resulting in a novel Co‐N2O3 microcellular structure that efficiently activates peroxymonosulfate. This unique activation capability led to the complete removal of various phenolic pollutants within 3 min, outperforming the representative Co single‐atom catalysts reported in the past three years. Identifying and recognizing reactive oxygen species highlight the crucial role of ⋅O2−. The efficient pollutant removal occurs through a ⋅O2−‐mediated radical pathway, functioning as a self‐coupling reaction rather than deep oxidation. Theoretical calculations demonstrate that the electron‐rich pollutants transfer more electrons to the catalyst surface, inducing the reduction of dissolved oxygen to ⋅O2− in the Co‐N2O3 microregion. In a practical continuous flow‐through application, the system achieved 100 % acetaminophen removal efficiency in 6.5 h, with a hydraulic retention time of just 0.98 s. This study provides new insights into the previously underappreciated role of ⋅O2− in pollutant purification, offering a simple strategy for advancing aggregation removal technology in the field of wastewater treatment.
Intrinsically Photothermal‐Driven and Reconfigurable Liquid Crystal Elastomer Actuators Enabled by Multifunctional Dynamic Covalent Organic Photothermal Molecules
Authors: Zhu Yangyang , Huang Jiaxiang , Mi Hao , Xu Zhentian , Ai Yun , Gong Sihui , Li Chunquan , Wang Meng , Chen Lie
Published: February 2025

Intrinsically photothermal‐responsive soft actuators possessing reconfigurability have attracted great attention due to their ability to change their actuation mode to satisfy diverse practical applications. However, challenges remain in designing and fabricating organic photothermal molecules featuring polymerizable or cross‐linkable groups, especially those with multifunctional properties. Here, a novel class of versatile light‐driven reconfigurable liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) materials, denoted as PUOLCE, has been developed. The multifunctional dynamic covalent organic photothermal molecules, serving as chain extenders, photothermal agents, and dynamic covalent bond precursors, are chemically bonded into LCEs, thereby endowing the LCEs with photothermal‐responsiveness and dynamic properties. The intrinsic photothermal effect of PUOLCE allows the exchange reaction of dynamic oxime‐carbamate bonds to undergo rapid welding under near‐infrared (NIR) light. Leveraging the NIR‐assisted welding strategy, the PUOLCE‐based building units are capable of assembling into various complex actuators with new deformation modes. Besides, the assembled actuators can be easily reconfigured to perform different mechanical tasks (e.g., flower blooming, grasping objects, and elevating objects) under NIR illumination. Furthermore, the PUOLCE actuators can be controlled globally or locally for light‐driven locomotion by controlling the area exposed to the NIR irradiation. This work provides insights into the development of adaptive soft actuators with tunable shape‐morphing capabilities.
Kauzmann Paradox, Supercooling, and Finding Order in Chaos
Authors: Martin Andrew , Thuo Martin
Published: February 2025

Prediction of a liquidus state with lower entropy than the corresponding solid at Kauzmann temperature (Tk), and associated entropy catastrophe/paradox, remains an enigma. Despite efforts to resolve this paradox for nearly 80 years, no unifying resolution has been reported. Potential resolutions to the Kauzmann paradox rely on an ideal glass transition, however, this limits the interpretation of Tk as an equilibrium critical point rather than an instability. Focusing on entropy, statistical mechanics and non‐equilibrium dynamics becomes a key tenet in resolving this paradox. Expansion in phase space beyond 2D and consideration of Tk as a non‐equilibrium critical point is necessary to understand the extent of liquid relaxation beyond Tk. In this review, we provide an entropic perspective of the relaxation behavior of supercooled liquids, associated expanded phase diagram, and the potential resolution to the Kauzmann paradox. This work integrates the historical evolution of our understanding of entropy/thermodynamics with modern interpretation of quantum states through renormalization group and thermodynamic speed limits.
Insights into the Electrolyte Hydrolysis and Its Impacts on the Interfacial Chemistry of a Li+‐Intercalated Anode during High‐Temperature Calendar Aging
Authors: Zhang Yu , Shen Zhen‐Zhen , Zhang Yanyan , Niu Min , Dong Liwei , Wang Wen‐Peng , Xu Di‐Xin , Li Ge , Jiang Ling‐Yan , Wang Fuyi , Wen Rui , Yang Chunhui , Liang Jia‐Yan , Xin Sen , Guo Yu‐Guo
Published: February 2025

Calendar aging occurring during high‐temperature storage has long plagued practical realization of long‐life, high‐safety lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Generally, the aging process is ascribed to the hydrolysis reaction of fluorine‐containing electrolyte salt that generates hydrofluoric acid and chemically corrodes the anode surface. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanism about electrolyte degradation, HF generation and surface corrosion remains concealed for various electrolytes. In this work, we employed in situ liquid time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy to resolve the chemical evolution during high‐temperature calendar aging in the bulk of the electrolyte and at the anode/electrolyte interface. Two conventional salts, LiPF6 and Li bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI), were employed for comparison. We identify that the high‐temperature hydrolysis of LiPF6 preferentially occurs when the anion aggregates ([PF6+LiPF6]−) are attacked by trace H2O. HPO2F2, HF and LiF are generated and assist formation of an inorganics‐rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), improving anode stability against parasitic reactions. The LiFSI‐based electrolyte does not involve hydrolysis, which facilities the formation of an organics‐rich SEI. Nevertheless, the SEI does not passivate the anode surface and could induce severe corrosions via electron tunneling at a high temperature. Our work offers original insights into rational design of electrolyte and interface for high‐energy, long‐calendar‐life LIBs.
“Waking Up Someone Who Is Sleepwalking” Daniel Ellsberg, Denial, Anti‐Thought and the Nuclear Threat
Authors: Gabriel Peter , Levine Howard
Published: February 2025

Daniel Ellsberg was an outspoken critic of the nuclear arms race, American nuclear war fighting strategy and the policy of deterrence based on so‐called mutually assured destruction. With courage and a deep moral conviction, he raised an often‐lone voice challenging our denial of the world annihilating potential of a nuclear exchange. His passing offers us a chance to reflect psychoanalytically on the minimization and denial of this and other world threatening existential threats and the omnipotent, hubristic belief in the assumed perfectibility of technology—the absolute conquest of nature by humankind. Together, the twin harbingers of mindlessness, silence and refusing to see, comprise a foundation on which rests the dangerous anti‐thought linked to the possibilities of omnicide and world destruction.
Studying the Effectiveness of Games as an Extracurricular Activity in a Higher Education Programming Course
Authors: Arias‐Herguedas Silvia , Pisabarro‐Marron Alma , Vivaracho‐Pascual Carlos , Ortega‐Arranz Alejandro , Jiménez Luis Ignacio
Published: February 2025

Higher Education programming courses usually present high levels of student failure and drop‐out rates. Given this context, the use of educational video games is proposed as a strategy to increase the students' motivation and engagement, thus helping diminish such rates. However, there is a lack of empirical studies examining such effects, especially when they are proposed outside the formal curriculum (i.e., extracurricular) and when the students are enrolled in different Higher Education bachelors. This paper presents a cross‐sectional study following a between‐subjects design with 315 students (168 assigned to the experimental condition, 147 to the control condition) enrolled in one of the following bachelors: B.S. in Computer Science (where programming is a core subject), and B.S. in Statistics (where it is not). The study spanned two consecutive academic years. The outcomes were evaluated through a pre‐/post‐test schema and comparison of final course results to measure the effect on learning (objective assessment) and a survey to get the students' perceptions (subjective assessment). In addition, the level of participation was analyzed and compared between bachelors, considering the optional nature of the activity. Results show statistically significant differences in learning outcomes between the students in the experimental condition and those in the control group, without clear differences between Bachelors (the results are positive for both). In the subjective assessment and participation, the results are also positive, but, in this case, statistically significant differences between bachelors have been observed. These positive outcomes suggest its potential applicability to other Higher Education and Engineering courses.
Enhancing Self‐Esteem: Evaluating the Effects of a Self‐Affirmation Intervention Among Indian Adults With Subclinical Depression
Authors: Tiwari Gyanesh Kumar , Choudhary Archna , Singh Archana , Shukla Anurag , Macorya Amit Kumar , Pandey Ashutosh , Singh Ajit Kumar
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Previous research reports self‐affirmation interventions to be efficacious in enhancing many life outcomes of normal individuals, but limited research has assessed its restorative and preserving capacities to enhance and maintain the self‐esteem of individuals with subclinical depressive tendencies.

Methods

This study employed an experimental research design. Eighty participants (age range = 22–27 years) with subclinical depression were chosen using purposive sampling and were randomly assigned in equal numbers to the experimental and control conditions and their self‐esteem was measured at pre‐intervention, post‐intervention and follow‐up intervals.

Results

Results showed that the experimental group participants evoked significantly higher mean scores (F(1, 76) = 29.20, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.28) on self‐esteem as compared to the control group at post‐intervention (Control: Mean (SD) = 17.48 (2.73); Experimental: Mean (SD) = 51.43 (3.29)) and follow‐up (Control: Mean (SD) = 18.28 (2.72); Experimental: Mean (SD) = 48.65 (3.74)). There was a significant difference in the mean scores of the self‐esteem of the experimental group participants during post‐intervention and follow‐up (F(2, 152) = 6.50, p = 0.002, η2 = 0.08). These findings were evident in the conditions' (experimental, control) and intervals' (pre‐intervention, post‐intervention, follow‐up) main and interaction effects: F(2, 152) = 6.54, p < 0.002, η2 = 0.08; and F(2, 152) = 3.87, p < 0.023, η2 = 0.05. The size of these effects ranged from very low, low, to medium (η2).

Conclusion

The findings revealed the restorative and preserving capacities of this self‐affirmation intervention for self‐esteem. The positive outcomes of the self‐affirmation intervention may have been produced as result of the activation of meaning, positive cognitions and positive relationships.
Therapeutic Relationship Through the Lenses of the Real Relationship, Therapeutic Alliance and Attachment to the Therapist: In Search of a Synthesis
Authors: Ribeiro Pedro Rodrigues , Neto David Dias
Published: February 2025

Aim

There is an overlap in psychotherapy research and clinical applications between these three views of the therapeutic relationship: the real relationship, the therapeutic alliance and attachment theory.

Objective

This study aimed to provide a synthesis by exploring this overlap in the client's perspective on the therapeutic relationship.

Method

The sample included 373 adult clients of individual therapy. An exploratory principal components analysis was conducted.

Results

Parallel analysis revealed a five‐component structure generating a final solution explaining 47% of the variance. These components seem to illustrate different clients' needs and views about the relationship and how the therapist might perceive the relationship and their interactions. It presents dimensions such as the need for security in the therapist, the need to be cared for by the therapist, the fear of being genuine to the therapist, working on the goals of therapy and the need for more contact and expanding the therapeutic relationship beyond the boundaries that can be relevant for assessment, clinical decision‐making and responding to a client's core needs.

Conclusion

This theoretical perspective may be useful beyond a specific relational construct, stressing the transtheoretical potential of clients' core needs towards the relationship and better preparing therapists to be more responsive to them.
Exploring the ‘Dark Side’ of AI‐Powered Digital Assistants: A Moderated Mediation Model of Antecedents and Outcomes of Perceived Creepiness
Authors: Maduku Daniel K. , Rana Nripendra P. , Mpinganjira Mercy , Thusi Philile
Published: February 2025

Artificial intelligence‐powered digital assistants (DAs) offer benefits, but their downsides can hinder user adoption and limit market potential. Although research exists on users' experiences with DAs, less is known about how user characteristics influence perceptions of a ‘dark side’—perceived creepiness. This study explores how perceived creepiness, user characteristics (uncertainty avoidance), and anxieties triggered by DAs (privacy concerns and technology anxiety) relate to distrust and disengagement from DAs. Based on the stressor‐strain‐outcome and person‐environment fit models, a research model was proposed and tested using survey data from 509 DA users analysed with Amos version 29 software. The results reveal that privacy concerns, uncertainty avoidance, and technology anxiety positively influence perceived creepiness and distrust of DAs, leading to disengagement. Moreover, uncertainty avoidance moderates these relationships, with users higher in uncertainty avoidance experiencing a stronger link between privacy concerns/technology anxiety and perceived creepiness. Importantly, the study shows indirect effects mediated by perceived creepiness, with uncertainty avoidance further moderating these indirect relationships. These findings contribute to literature by highlighting the interplay between user characteristics, DA‐induced anxieties, perceived creepiness, and user disengagement with DAs.
Improved Motor Function in Cervical Spinal Cord Injury Following Spinal Cord Stimulation
Authors: Suarez Michael , Gallacher David M. , Jevotovsky David S. , Chopra Harman , Broachwala Mustafa , Castellanos Joel P.
Published: February 2025

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a promising therapy for the management of spinal cord injury. Following SCS, this patient experienced a significant reduction in pain and decreased spasticity, which ultimately led to improved upper extremity function.
Crowned Dens Syndrome Triggered by Dental Treatment
Authors: Morita Satoru , Otsuka Yuki , Masuda Yohei , Soejima Yoshiaki , Otsuka Fumio
Published: February 2025

Crowned dens syndrome (CDS) is an important yet often overlooked cause of fever and neck pain, frequently leading to unnecessary examinations and treatments and misdiagnosis as infectious diseases or rheumatic diseases. The mechanism of an acute attack of CDS is not clarified completely, while it is considered that severe systemic stress can trigger inflammation caused by calcium pyrophosphate crystals. We describe a case of CDS triggered by localized physical stress to the neck and emphasize the importance of considering this condition in cases of fever and neck pain following dental treatment.
Hyperledger Fabric for the (digitalized) lifecycle of construction products: Applied review on fastening technology
Authors: Pfeil Aileen , Kifokeris Dimosthenis , Spyridis Panagiotis
Published: February 2025

Blockchain technology is a digital decentralized data ledger recording transactions in an encrypted format. Its implementation can potentially hold significant advantages for the built environment, particularly in manufacturing and building product usage aligned with Building Information Modeling (BIM). This paradigm shift toward decentralized transactions can foster security, reliability, and accountability. Hyperledger Fabric (HLF), an enterprise‐grade distributed ledger, offers a modular, scalable, and confidential digital framework. This article introduces HLF‐based workflows to address inefficiencies in BIM and fastener product lifecycle management, such as fragmented data handling and limited process automation. Leveraging chaincodes linked to BIM models, HLF simplifies, enhances transparency, and automates construction product lifecycle processes. Contract data and execution details are managed through a blockchain stored in a common data environment (CDE) and linked to chaincodes. The article presents the conceptualization and implementation of automated workflows, emphasizing efficiency and transparency. While showcasing successful deployments, it also highlights areas for future improvement and development. The proposed framework represents a pioneering step toward a decentralized cooperative environment in the construction industry, aligning with the transformative potential of blockchain technology.
Exploring Lead‐Free (Guanidinium)3Bi2Br9 Perovskite‐Type Crystal toward X‐Ray Detection with an Ultralow Detection Limit
Authors: Zhang Jingtian , Guo Wuqian , Xu Haojie , Fan Qingshun , Sun Zhihua , Luo Junhua
Published: February 2025

Lead‐free bismuth halogen perovskites have emerged as a promising candidate for high‐performance X‐ray detection, owing to their unique properties of bulk resistivity, significant X‐ray absorption capabilities and diminished ion migration. Herein, using the facile low‐temperature solution method, we obtained a large‐size single crystal of (guanidinium)3Bi2Br9 (GBB), which adopts a zero‐dimensional (0D) inorganic perovskite‐like framework. The as‐grown crystals show high resistivity (3.51×1012 Ω cm), low trap density (1.14×1010 cm−3) and large carrier mobility‐lifetime product (μτ=1.13×10−3 cm2 V−1) under X‐ray irradiation. Strikingly, the X‐ray detectors fabricated on GBB single crystals exhibit notable performances including low dark current drift, high sensitivity of ~1645.7 μC Gyair−1 cm−2, and ultralow detection limit of ~0.85 nGyair s−1. This detection limit is among the lowest level for the reported 0D perovskite X‐ray detectors. This study illuminates the prospective research into novel lead‐free hybrid perovskites for the advancement of high‐performance detectors of irradiation.
Unified Color Harmony Model
Authors: Xu Long , Liu Dongyuan , Park Su Jin , Lee Sangwon
Published: February 2025

Color harmony is an aesthetic sensation evoked by the balanced and coherent arrangement of the colors of visual elements. While traditional methods define harmonious subspaces from geometric relationships or numerical formulas, we employ a data‐driven approach to create a unified model for evaluating and generating color combinations of arbitrary sizes. By treating color sequences as linguistic sentences, we construct a color combinations generator using SeqGAN, a generative model capable of learning discrete data through reinforcement learning. The resulting model produces color combinations as much preferred as those by the best models of each size and excels at penalizing color combinations from random sampling. The distribution of the generated colors has more diverse hues than the input data, in contrast to the NLP‐based model that predominantly predicts achromatic colors due to exposure bias. The flexible structure of our model allows for simple extension to additional conditions such as group preference or emotional keywords.
Thermodynamic Insights on the Structure‐Property Relationships in Substituted Benzenes: Are the Pairwise Interactions in Tri‐Substituted Methyl‐Nitro‐Benzoic Acids Still Valid?
Authors: Silva Ferraz José M. , Emel'yanenko Vladimir N. , Zaitsau Dzmitry H. , Samarov Artemiy A. , Brunetti Bruno , Ciccioli Andrea , Vecchio Ciprioti Stefano , Verevkin Sergey P.
Published: February 2025

A comprehensive experimental thermochemical study of nine methyl‐substituted nitrobenzoic acids was carried out, leading to the final standard molar enthalpies of formation in the gas phase. The combustion energies were measured using high‐precision combustion calorimetry, and the enthalpies of formation of the crystal phase were derived. The sublimation enthalpies were obtained from the vapor pressure‐temperature dependencies measured using the classic Knudsen effusion mass loss and the transpiration methods. The standard molar enthalpies of vaporisation were derived from the temperature dependence of the mass‐loss rates measured using the non‐isothermal thermogravimetry. The thermal behaviour, including melting temperatures and standard molar enthalpies of fusion, was investigated by DSC. The high‐level quantum chemical G* methods were used for the mutual validation of the experimental and theoretical gas phase enthalpies of formation of methyl‐substituted nitrobenzoic acids. The consistent set of experimental properties at the reference temperature T=298 K was evaluated and recommended for thermochemical calculations. The pairwise interactions of the substituents on the benzene ring were derived from nitro‐toluenes, methyl‐benzoic acids and nitro‐benzoic acids available in the literature, and the additivity of the contributions when three substituents are placed simultaneously in the benzene ring was discussed.
Trends in Alzheimer's‐Related Mortality Among Type 2 Diabetes Patients in the United States: 1999–2019
Authors: Waqas Saad Ahmed , Ali Dua , Khan Taimor Mohammed , Qureshi Shaheer , Siddiqui Hibah , Sajid Maryam , Imran Zahra , Salim Hussain , Sohail Muhammad Umer , Ahmed Raheel , Marsia Shayan
Published: February 2025

Background

Recent research has shown that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has increased the burden of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in the US aging population. However, trends in mortality from this comorbidity among adults aged ≥ 65 years have not been investigated.

Objectives

This study examined trends and disparities in AD‐related mortality among older US adults with T2DM from 1999 to 2019.

Methods

Data from the CDC WONDER database were analysed to assess AD‐related mortality in patients with T2DM aged ≥ 65 between 1999 and 2019. Age‐adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) per 100,000 people and annual percent change (APC) were calculated and stratified by year, sex, race/ethnicity, age, urbanisation and geographical region.

Results

From 1999 to 2019, there were 71,550 deaths with T2DM and AD among adults aged ≥ 65. AAMRs rose from 4.12 in 1999 to 11.65 in 2019, with the sharpest increase between 2014 and 2017 (APC: 10.81; 95% CI: −3.20 to 13.43). Women had slightly higher AAMRs than men, with rates increasing from 4.71 in 1999 to 11.61 in 2019 for women, and from 4.08 to 11.70 for men. Hispanic individuals saw the highest increase in AAMR (11.15), followed by non‐Hispanic Black (9.30) and White populations (7.92). AAMRs were highest in the West (10.91) and the Midwest (9.62), while the Northeast (4.70) had the lowest. Nonmetropolitan areas had consistently higher AAMRs (10.74) than large metropolitan areas (6.68) and small/medium metropolitan areas (9.25). States in the top 90th percentile for T2DM–AD mortality included California, South Dakota and Kentucky, where rates were approximately eight times higher than in states in the lowest 10th percentile.

Conclusions

This study reveals a significant rise in T2DM–AD comorbidity‐related mortality among older adults, especially among Hispanics, women and rural residents. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to reduce the burden in vulnerable populations.
Comparative Study of Plant‐Based Antioxidants on the Stability of Soybean and Beef Tallow Biodiesels
Authors: Kandasamy Kalaiarasi , Dhairiyasamy Ratchagaraja , Gabiriel Deepika
Published: February 2025

Biodiesel is a renewable alternative fuel, but its oxidative instability reduces quality and performance over time. This study explicitly aimed to investigate the efficacy of natural antioxidants—acerola, soursop, mango, and pitanga leaves—and compare their performance to the synthetic antioxidant butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) in enhancing the thermooxidative stability of soybean ethyl and bovine tallow methyl biodiesels. Biodiesels were synthesized and stored under controlled conditions (ambient and 60°C) for up to 1848 h. Analytical results showed that biodiesel treated with BHT maintained acidity index (AI) values below 0.5 mg KOH/g after 1176 h, while untreated biodiesel exceeded 1.0 mg KOH/g within 504 h. Kinematic viscosity for BHT‐treated samples remained under the acceptable limit of 6.0 mm²/s for 1176 h, compared with untreated biodiesel, which surpassed the limit at 504 h. Natural antioxidants exhibited varying degrees of efficacy, with soursop and pitanga extracts achieving 35%–50% improvements in oxidative stability compared with untreated biodiesel. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that natural additives delayed the onset of degradation temperatures by 10°C–15°C. These findings demonstrate that plant‐based antioxidants significantly enhance biodiesel stability, offering up to 70% of the effectiveness of BHT, and highlight their potential as sustainable alternatives for improving biodiesel quality.
Equilibrium of morphological units in anabranching rivers
Authors: Ragno Niccolò , Tubino Marco
Published: February 2025

Anabranching rivers are characterized by multiple sequences of interacting channels. These patterns consist of morphological units in the form of closed loops, with an upstream bifurcation controlling the partition of water and sediment fluxes, and a downstream confluence where the two anabranches reconnect. Bifurcation‐confluence loops can also be encountered in single‐thread rivers showing a transitional planform between meandering and anabranching, often associated with width oscillations and chute cutoffs. Individual channel loops display an average length that is proportional to the reach‐averaged bankfull depth of alluvial rivers. The existence of a characteristic length scale reflects a hydro‐morphodynamic interaction taking place between the constitutive elements of these morphological features, bifurcations and confluences. However, it is not clear why channel loops should organize themselves to attain a certain spatial scale, and how their planform shape is related to the morphodynamical processes governing the distribution of water and sediment between the anabranches. In this work we tackle these issues through a comparative analysis of theoretical findings and remotely sensed data from natural gravel‐bed and sand‐bed rivers. Two missing ingredients are included with respect to previous analyses: the case where one of the anabranches stops transporting sediment, and the case of loops with unequal lengths of the bifurcates. The theoretical model suggests that four distinct types of long‐term equilibrium states can be identified, depending on the reach‐averaged bankfull properties and on the planform shape of the loop. The comparison between model results and field data reveals that most of the observed river loops place themselves consistently in the region of the parameter space where theory predicts that both branches keep open in the long term.