bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxygen‐Bridged Quasi‐Planar para‐Phenylenediamine and its Oxidized States
Authors: Yoshida Koshi , Hikida Kai , Tanaka Takayuki , Seki Shu , Ito Akihiro
Published: April 2024

A quasi‐planar N, N, N’,N’‐tetraphenyl‐para‐phenylenediamine, where all the phenyl rings are tethered by four oxygen atoms to embed quasi‐planar triphenylamine moieties into the molecular skeleton, was prepared and characterized to evaluate the impact by incorporating the structural rigidity. The monocationic and dicationic species could be selectively generated, depending on the type of oxidizing agents used. Spectroscopic and X‐ray diffraction analyses revealed the radical cation was in a unique charge/spin delocalized class III mixed‐valence state due to an exquisite balance between the electronic effect by the oxygen‐bridges and the rigidity of molecular framework.
n‐Bu4NI/K2S2O8‐Mediated C−N Coupling Between Aldehydes and Amides
Authors: Liu Xiaochen , Hee Samual , Sapir Netanel G. , Li Alvin , Farkruzzaman Syed , Liu Jianbo , Chen Yu
Published: April 2024

n‐Bu4NI/K2S2O8 mediated C−N coupling between aldehydes and amides is reported. A strong electronic effect is observed on the aromatic aldehyde substrates. The transformylation from aldehyde to amide takes place exclusively when an aromatic aldehyde bears electron‐donating groups at either the ortho or para position of the formyl group, while the cross‐dehydrogenative coupling dominates in the absence of these groups. Both the density functional theory (DFT) thermochemistry calculations and experimental data support the proposed single electron transfer mechanism with the formation of an acyl radical intermediate in the cross‐dehydrogenative coupling. The n‐Bu4NI/K2S2O8 mediated oxidative cyclization between 2‐aminobenzamide and aldehydes is also reported, with four quinazolin‐4(3H)‐ones prepared in 65–99 % yields.
Investigating the physicochemical, rheological, and sensory properties of low‐fat mayonnaise prepared with amaranth protein as an egg yolk replacer
Authors: Mohammadi Sahar , Alimi Mazdak , Shahidi Seyed‐Ahmad , Shokoohi Shirin
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the possibility of using amaranth protein isolate (API) as a plant‐based substitute for egg yolk (EY) in the preparation of low‐fat mayonnaise (LFM). The alkali extraction/acidic precipitation method was used to isolate amaranth protein; its functional properties were then studied. The results showed that besides its great water and oil absorption capacities, API had better emulsifying capacity and significantly higher (p < .05) emulsion stability at pH 2.0 than alkali pH values. Five mayonnaise samples with different API/EY combination ratios (%) (i.e., 0/0.75, 0.25/0.5, 0.375/0.375, 0.5/0.25, and 0.75/0) were prepared. The color, emulsion stability (ES), freeze–thaw stability (FTS), droplet size, structure, rheology, and sensory properties of samples were examined. API replacement showed no adverse effects on the L* value, ES, and sensory attributes (p > .05). Low API concentrations (0.25% and 0.375%) significantly (p < .05) increased the droplet size and decreased the FTS of LFM emulsion. High API concentrations (0.5% and 0.75%) had no significant effect (p > .05) on droplet size and formed emulsions with more tightly packed oil droplets. The Cross model was chosen best to describe the flow behavior of LFM samples (R2 = 0.99). The sample with 0.75% API had significantly (p < .05) the highest values of ηo (zero‐shear viscosity) and λ (relaxation time), indicating greater interaction between the emulsion particles. All samples showed a weak gel structure (G' > G"). In conclusion, API can be considered an appropriate substitute for EY in LFM production, which can benefit human health and offer a new strategy for preparing vegan products.
An empirical study on the early exercise premium of American options: Evidence from OEX and XEO options
Authors: Li Weihan , Zhang Jin E. , Ruan Xinfeng , Aschakulporn Pakorn
Published: April 2024

Since the S&P 100 Index underlies both American (OEX) and European (XEO) options, the value of the early exercise premium of American options can be directly observed. We find that the mid‐quote of an XEO option can be higher than that of an otherwise identical OEX option, and liquidity can explain this overpricing phenomenon of European options. Our results show that illiquid options are significantly overpriced in the S&P 100 Index options market. This finding indicates that an illiquid option can be overvalued with a higher market offer price, which is the requirement of market makers for compensation for providing liquidity.
Imagining and emplacing net zero industrial clusters: A critical analysis of stakeholder discourses
Authors: Lai Huei‐Ling , Devine‐Wright Patrick
Published: April 2024

Decarbonizing industrial sectors is a critical global challenge, involving the creation of new industrial spaces—‘net zero industrial clusters’—co‐locating energy sectors and ‘hard‐to‐abate’ industries such as oil refining and steelmaking. This paper provides the first empirically grounded geographical investigation of these emerging spaces. It employs a place‐based research agenda to unpack how UK net zero industrial clusters (ICs) are imagined and emplaced in policy and industry discourses through place‐based naming, spatial configuring and mapping activities. By conducting document analysis, 33 in‐depth stakeholder interviews and five field trips to three UK case studies, we show how cluster imaginaries vary across cases and policy contexts in terms of constituents, focus and purpose. Ontological complexity is compounded by different rationales among stakeholders in configuring clusters and by contested cluster naming and boundary setting. This ambiguous, evolving spatiality raises important political and justice concerns over who and where is excluded in cluster building. These findings advance the geographies of low‐carbon transitions by showing: (1) ways that ICs' spatial embeddedness, which underlies cluster spatial configurations, helps increase industry actors' recognition of their economic, social and cultural ties with the places of their making, even if this risks path dependency; (2) how fluid cluster boundaries, reflected in cluster names and maps, emphasize the value of a network topology of scale to enable spatially inclusive, multi‐scalar climate mitigation. Finally, we argue that a place‐sensitive net zero policy mindset is vital for fulfilling ICs and the UK's decarbonization potential in a manner that is both fair and locally grounded.
Clinical characteristics and risk factors for mortality in Candida auris infections
Authors: Li Kang , Liu Xin , Liu Danfeng , Zhi Yuqi , Dong Chang , Sun Pengrui , Dong Yueming , Pan Hongfang , Zhang Yuxiang , Lei Hong
Published: April 2024

Background

Candida auris infections pose a threat to public health, necessitating increased awareness in China. This study aimed to analyze the strains of C. auris, assess the infection status, and investigate clinical characteristics and risk factors for mortality.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 18 patients with Candida auris infection. We focused on evaluating basic characteristics, strain sources, and antibacterial susceptibility test results. Statistical methods were used to determine clinical features and identify risk factors for death.

Results

The strain type, composition ratio, and specimen source of C. auris were not associated with mortality. Neither the infection index nor the length of hospitalization showed an association with the prognosis. However, significant risk factors for mortality included cerebral infarction, cardiac disease, renal dysfunction, hypoproteinemia, and anemia (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Cerebral infarction, cardiac disease, renal dysfunction, hypoproteinemia, and anemia are significant risk factors for death in C. auris infections. These findings indicate the importance of recognizing and addressing these factors in the clinical management of C. auris infection.
Adolescent‐perceived parent–child negative body talk and disordered eating: Evidence for behavior‐specific affective mediators
Authors: Myntti Warner W. , Parnell Lucas , Valledor Valerie , Chow Chong Man
Published: April 2024

Introduction

This study examined the mediating role of general negative affect and body‐specific negative affect between the association between negative body talk occurring within the mother–daughter relationship and restrained and disinhibited disordered eating.

Methods

Adolescent girls (N = 100; Mage = 14.25; 49.5% White) completed self‐report measures of general negative affect (depression and anxiety), body‐specific negative affect (body dissatisfaction), and perceptions of the frequency that negative body talk occurred in interactions with their mother (initiated by the mother or daughter) as part of a cross‐sectional study. While the same set of questionnaires was administered to both mothers and daughters, only the data reported by the daughters were analyzed and included in this study. Data were gathered in the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti area of Michigan, USA, around the year 2015.

Results

Path analysis showed that general negative affect, but not body‐specific negative affect, mediated the association from mother–daughter negative body talk to disinhibited eating behaviors (emotional and external eating). Conversely, body‐specific negative affect, but not general negative affect, mediated the association from negative body talk to restrained eating behaviors.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest there are distinct affective mechanisms that mediate the relationship between mother–daughter negative body talk and restrained versus disinhibited eating behavior. Future work should continue to explicate the role of general and body‐related negative affect in different eating behaviors.
Quantum mechanical study of transition metal hydrides: Comparison of determined molecular properties with experimental data
Authors: Vavrečka Adam , Fatková Kateřina , Burda Jaroslav V.
Published: April 2024

This study compares results of four relativistic pseudopotential basis sets, which differ mainly by their size: double‐zeta introduced by Hay and Wadt from Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL2DZ), triple‐zeta based on Stuttgart energy‐consistent scalar‐relativistic pseudopotential (SDD3), its extension with 2fg polarization functions, and combination of Stuttgart pseudopotentials with quintuple‐zeta cc‐pV5Z base (SDD5). Hydrides of transition metals from Cr to Zn group are chosen as reference molecules. The coupled cluster method (CCSD(T)) is used for evaluation of selected molecular characteristics. Interatomic distances, dissociation energies, vibration modes, and anharmonicity constants are determined and compared with available experimental data. As expected, the accuracy of basis depends mainly on its size. However, only moderate modification of SDD3 basis set significantly improves its accuracy, which becomes comparable to the largest basis set. Nevertheless, the time consumption is significantly lower.
Elevated glucose promotes MMP13 and ADAMTS5 production by osteoarthritic chondrocytes under oxygenated but not hypoxic conditions
Authors: Jain Lekha , Bolam Scott M. , Monk Paul , Munro Jacob T. , Tamatea Jade , Dalbeth Nicola , Poulsen Raewyn C.
Published: April 2024

Type 2 diabetes is linked with increased incidence and severity of osteoarthritis. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of extracellular glucose within the normal blood glucose and hyperglycemic range on catabolic enzyme production by chondrocytes isolated from osteoarthritic (OA) and macroscopically normal (MN) human cartilage under oxygenated (18.9% oxygen) and hypoxic (1% oxygen) conditions. OA and MN chondrocytes were maintained in 4, 6, 8, or 10 mM glucose for 24 h. Glucose consumption, GLUT1 glucose transporter levels, MMP13 and ADAMTS5 production, and levels of RUNX2, a transcriptional regulator of MMP13, ADAMTS5, and GLUT1, were assessed by enzyme‐linked assays, RT‐qPCR and/or western blot. Under oxygenated conditions, glucose consumption and GLUT1 protein levels were higher in OA but not MN chondrocytes in 10 mM glucose compared to 4 mM. Both RNA and protein levels of MMP13 and ADAMTS5 were also higher in OA but not MN chondrocytes in 10 mM compared to 4 mM glucose under oxygenated conditions. Expression of RUNX2 was overall lower in MN than OA chondrocytes and there was no consistent effect of extracellular glucose concentration on RUNX2 levels in MN chondrocytes. However, protein (but not RNA) levels of RUNX2 were elevated in OA chondrocytes maintained in 10 mM versus 4 mM glucose under oxygenated conditions. In contrast, neither RUNX2 levels or MMP13 or ADAMTS5 expression were increased in OA chondrocytes maintained in 10 mM compared to 4 mM glucose in hypoxia. Elevated extracellular glucose leads to increased glucose consumption and increased RUNX2 protein levels, promoting production of MMP13 and ADAMTS5 by OA chondrocytes in oxygenated but not hypoxic conditions. These findings suggest that hyperglycaemia may exacerbate chondrocyte‐mediated cartilage catabolism in the oxygenated superficial zone of cartilage in vivo in patients with undertreated type 2 diabetes, contributing to increased OA severity.
Reliable and efficient membrane processes for clean and sustainable production of fresh water from saline waste
Authors: Ouchn Rachid , Chaouqi Youssef , Avci Ahmet Halil , Gmouh Said , Curcio Efrem , Cherkaoui Omar , Hlaibi Miloudi
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Increasing water scarcity as a result of growing demand highlights the urgency for innovative solutions. Seawater desalination is emerging as a crucial answer, with direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) emerging as a promising technology in this context. In particular, membranes produced from ionic liquids constitute a well‐established avenue for the preparation of membranes by nonsolvent phase inversion (NIPS) in the field of desalination.

RESULTS

Tests carried out as part of the DCMD, using PVDF membranes modified with the ionic liquid (IL) MPF6 and TBAPF6 synthesized during this study, in particular those containing 50% TBAFP6, demonstrate a notable improvement in hydrophobicity (121.48°) and porosity(79%). The results suggest that the flux of the PVDF‐TBAPF6 membrane shows a clear improvement of 300% compared to the support alone. Various parameters such as salinity, temperature and flow rate were examined, highlighting their impact on membrane performance. The low energy parameters (Ea = 43.36 kJ mol−1, ΔH≠ = 40.86 kJ mol−1) indicate a diffusion mechanism of vapor molecules, occurring by successive jumps through the IL interaction sites.

CONCLUSION

Extensive experimental investigations have carefully anticipated the permeate flow in DCMD, aiming to efficiently extract pure water. DCMD is positioned as a promising technology for desalination and treatment of BRINE solutions. Therefore, this study can make a significant contribution to the expansion of DCMD by facilitating the prediction and optimization of operational parameters, thereby paving the way for expanded application of this technology. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
One‐pot green approach for rapid and effective anionic dye remediation: encapsulation within alginate nanocapsules
Authors: Alver Erol , Doğan Deniz , Mert Humeyra , Metin Ayşegül Ülkü
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

The encapsulation technique was applied to efficiently eliminate Congo red (CR) from aqueous solutions. During the ionotropic gelation between calcium (Ca2+) ions and alginate (AL), CR was effectively entrapped within the AL nanocapsules in a one‐step process. Suitable conditions for efficient CR removal via encapsulation were revealed by the systematic optimization of parameters including pH, time and stirring speed, etc.

RESULTS

According to the experimental observations, the stirring rate and temperature were found to have an insignificant effect on the encapsulation of CR molecules. When the pH value of the medium was 3, the highest level of encapsulation efficiency was achieved in a period of 15 min. At a preliminary CR concentration of 2000 mg L−1 and pH 3, the encapsulation efficiency was calculated at ≈98.9%, with an encapsulation capacity of 2800 mg dye g−1 AL. The zeta potential values of AL and CR/AL nanocapsules were determined to be +7.05 eV and −14.9 eV, respectively, and the results showed that the particles tended to agglomerate. TEM micrographs also showed that the nanocapsules were nanosized and agglomerated. Soil and UV degradation studies showed that the dye‐entrapped nanocapsules degraded remarkably. These results highlighted the great potential of encapsulation for dye removal in economical and practical applications.

CONCLUSION

Encapsulation was confirmed to be an economical and practical technique for effectively eliminating CR from aqueous solutions. Under UV light irradiation, the dye molecules entrapped within alginate nanocapsules displayed photodegradation. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Therapeutic effect of N, N‐Diphenyl‐1,4‐phenylenediamine and adipose‐derived stem cells coadministration on diabetic cardiomyopathy in type 1 diabetes mellitus‐rat model
Authors: Abd El‐lateef Hany M. , Ali Lashin S. , Qahl Safa H. , Binjawhar Dalal N. , Fayad Eman , Alghamdi Maha A. , Altalhi Sarah A. , Al‐Salmi Fawziah A. , Shabana El Shaimaa , Radwan Kholoud H. , Youssef Ibrahim , Shaaban Saad , Rashwan Hanan M. , El‐Sawah Shady G.
Published: April 2024

Type 1 diabetes stem‐cell‐based treatment approach is among the leading therapeutic strategies for treating cardiac damage owing to the stem cells' regeneration capabilities. Mesenchymal stem cells derived from adipose tissue (AD‐MSCs) have shown great potential in treating diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). Herein, we explored the antioxidant‐supporting role of N, N′‐diphenyl‐1,4‐phenylenediamine (DPPD) in enhancing the MSCs' therapeutic role in alleviating DCM complications in heart tissues of type 1 diabetic rats. Six male albinos Wistar rat groups have been designed into the control group, DPPD (250 mg/kg, i.p.) group, diabetic‐untreated group, and three diabetic rat groups treated with either AD‐MSCs (1 × 106 cell/rat, i.v.) or DPPD or both. Interestingly, all three treated diabetic groups exhibited a significant decrease in serum glucose, HbA1c, heart dysfunction markers (lactate dehydrogenase and CK‐MP) levels, and lipid profile fractions (except for HDL‐C), as well as some cardiac oxidative stress (OS) levels (MDA, AGEs, XO, and ROS). On the contrary, serum insulin, C‐peptide, and various cardiac antioxidant levels (GSH, GST, CAT, SOD, TAC, and HO‐1), beside viable cardiac cells (G0/G1%), were markedly elevated compared with the diabetic untreated group. In support of these findings, the histological assay reflected a marked enhancement in the cardiac tissues of all diabetic‐treated groups, with obvious excellency of the AD‐MSCs + DPPD diabetic‐treated group. Such results strongly suggested the great therapeutic potentiality of either DPPD or AD‐MSCs single injection in enhancing the cardiac function of diabetic rats, with a great noted enhancement superiority of DPPD and AD‐MSCs coadministration.
Preparation of spore‐immobilized glutathione reductase and its application in inhibiting browning of pear wine
Authors: Yang Hua , Wang Shang , Chen Ming , Lu Jian
Published: April 2024

Background

Browning is the key problem hindering the industrialization of pear wine. The use of high‐yield glutathione Saccharomyces cerevisiae in the fermentation of pear wine can inhibit browning. Glutathione reductase (GR) can ensure the reduction of glutathione. Spore immobilization of enzymes is a new technology. It is a new attempt to apply spore‐immobilized GR in combination with high‐yield glutathione S. cerevisiae to inhibit browning of pear wine.

Results

Saccharomyces cerevisiae spore immobilization enzyme technology was used to immobilize GR in the spores of mutant S. cerevisiae dit1∆, osw2∆ and chs3∆ and wild‐type S. cerevisiae. The enzyme activity of GR immobilized by chs3∆ spores was the highest of 3.08 U mg−1 min−1. The chs3∆ spore‐immobilized GR had certain resistance to ethanol, citric acid, sucrose, glucose and proteinase K. Electron microscopy analysis showed that the spore wall of chs3∆ had moderate size holes, which might be the main reason why it immobilized GR with the highest enzyme activity. And the GR was immobilized between the prespore membrane and mannoprotein layer of the spore wall. When chs3∆ spore‐immobilized GR (chs3∆‐GR) was added to Dangshan pear wine fermented by high‐yield glutathione S. cerevisiae JN32‐9, the presence of chs3∆‐GR could further protect amino acids, polyphenols and glucose from oxidation, thereby reducing the browning of the pear wine during storage by 47.32%.

Conclusion

GR immobilized by S. cerevisiae spores was effective in inhibiting the browning of pear wine. The method was simple, green and effective and did not increase the production cost of pear wine. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Friction‐Reducing and Anti‐Wear Mechanism of BP/Nano‐Fe3O4 Nanocomposite as a Lubricant Additive in Soybean Oil
Authors: Yu Han , Li Min , Sun Jianfang , Su Jingying , Su Fenghua
Published: April 2024

As an emerging two‐dimensional material, black phosphorus (BP) has excellent tribological properties, but the poor dispersion of BP in oil inhibits its application in friction to some extent. Surface modification is one of the effective methods to solve the dispersibility of BP, and the use of nano‐Fe3O4 dotted on the surface of BP improves the dispersion stability of BP in soybean from 3 days to about 15 days. Compared with pure soybean oil, friction coefficient and wear rate of the addition of 0.12 wt% BP/Fe3O4 are reduced 65% and 78%, respectively. To elucidate the excellent tribological mechanisms of BP/Fe3O4 as additives in soybean oil, the compositional and structural characterisation of the abrasion mark surface was studied accordingly. On the one hand, soybean oil reacts with BP/Fe3O4 to form a composite tribo‐film during the scraping process. This tribo‐film composed of amorphous carbon, iron oxide and phosphorus oxide nitrides prevents direct contact between the sliding interfaces. On the other hand, BP and Fe3O4 nanoparticles form a mechanical rollerball structure, which can further reduce interfacial friction and wear through synergistic lubrication. The results provide new insights into the design of additives in biomass lubricating oils and propose new application prospects for BP in the field of lubricating additives.
A Highly Sensitive and Stretchable Core–Shell Fiber Sensor for Gesture Recognition and Surface Pressure Distribution Monitoring
Authors: Yan Weizhe , Liu Andeng , Luo Yingjin , Chen Zhuomin , Wu Guoxu , Chen Jianfeng , Huang Qiaoling , Yang Yun , Ye Meidan , Guo Wenxi
Published: April 2024

This work reports a highly‐strain flexible fiber sensor with a core–shell structure utilizes a unique swelling diffusion technique to infiltrate carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into the surface layer of Ecoflex fibers. Compared with traditional blended Ecoflex/CNTs fibers, this manufacturing process ensures that the sensor maintains the mechanical properties (923% strain) of the Ecoflex fiber while also improving sensitivity (gauge factor is up to 3716). By adjusting the penetration time during fabrication, the sensor can be customized for different uses. As an application demonstration, the fiber sensor is integrated into the glove to develop a wearable gesture language recognition system with high sensitivity and precision. Additionally, the authors successfully monitor the pressure distribution on the curved surface of a soccer ball by winding the fiber sensor along the ball's surface.
Conjugal Synucleinopathies: A Clinicopathologic Study
Authors: Adler Charles H. , Halverson Matthew , Zhang Nan , Shill Holly A. , Driver‐Dunckley Erika , Mehta Shyamal H. , Atri Alireza , Caviness John N. , Serrano Geidy E. , Shprecher David R. , Belden Christine M. , Sabbagh Marwan N. , Long Kathy , Beach Thomas G.
Published: April 2024

Background

While preclinical studies have shown that alpha‐synuclein can spread through cell‐to‐cell transmission whether it can be transmitted between humans is unknown.

Objectives

The aim was to assess the presence of a synucleinopathy in autopsied conjugal couples.

Methods

Neuropathological findings in conjugal couples were categorized as Parkinson's disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), Alzheimer's disease with Lewy bodies (ADLB), incidental Lewy body disease (ILBD), or no Lewy bodies.

Results

Ninety conjugal couples were included; the mean age of death was 88.3 years; 32 couples had no Lewy bodies; 42 couples had 1 spouse with a synucleinopathy: 10 PD, 3 DLB, 13 ADLB, and 16 ILBD; 16 couples had both spouses with a synucleinopathy: in 4 couples both spouses had PD, 1 couple had PD and DLB, 4 couples had PD and ADLB, 2 couples had PD and ILBD, 1 couple had DLB and ADLB, in 3 couples both had ADLB, and 1 couple had ADLB and ILBD. No couples had both spouses with ILBD.

Conclusions

This large series of 90 autopsied conjugal couples found 16 conjugal couples with synucleinopathies, suggesting transmission of synucleinopathy between spouses is unlikely. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
A novel Noor iterative method of operators with property (E) as concerns convex programming applicable in signal recovery and polynomiography
Authors: Paimsang Papinwich , Yambangwai Damrongsak , Thianwan Tanakit
Published: April 2024

This work proposes a novel Noor iterative scheme, called CT‐iteration, to approximate the fixed points in the new context of generalized nonexpansive mappings with property
. We establish the strong and weak convergence results in a uniformly convex Banach space. Additionally, numerical examples of the iterative technique are demonstrated using a signal recovery application in a compressed sensing situation. Furthermore, we show the use of the proposed method to generate polynomiographs. The proposed algorithm has been implemented and tested via numerical simulation in MATLAB. The simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Variability and loss of uniqueness of numerical solutions in FEM×DEM modeling with second gradient enhancement
Authors: Nguyen Trung‐Kien , Vo Thanh‐Trung , Nguyen Nhu H. T. , Combe Gaël
Published: April 2024

In the last decade, a new multi‐scale FEM×DEM approach has been developed using Finite Element Method (FEM) coupled with Discrete Element Method (DEM) as a constitutive law to account for the specificities of the mechanical behavior of granular materials. In FEM×DEM model, a DEM calculation is performed on a particle assembly (volume element—VE) at each Gauss point. Recent publications have demonstrated that FEM×DEM approach naturally captures the discrete and anisotropic nature of granular materials. Despite its advantages, FEM×DEM with classical FEM, suffers from mesh dependency, especially when material enters softening phase and exhibits strain localization. To overcome this limitation, FEM×DEM model has been enriched by incorporating a local second gradient model. Nevertheless, the existence of multiple possible solutions is observed. In this paper, we study the variability and loss of uniqueness of numerical solutions to a boundary value problem. Different VEs with equivalent mechanical properties are generated and used to model the pressuremeter tests by means of FEM×DEM. The modeling results show a great variability of the numerical results, both in shape of borehole and in different modes of shear bands. For the same VE, the loss of uniqueness of numerical solutions is evidenced by a slight modification of loading history at the level of the internal pressure applied to the borehole. Finally, we show that when a certain heterogeneity is introduced by using different VEs within the same BVP, even if the uniqueness of the solution is not guaranteed, the set of possible solutions seems more restrained.
Research progress on bamboo fiber reinforced polymeric composites: Processes, properties, and future directions
Authors: Yu He , Wu Jiangxing , Gao Yantao , Lu Zan , Hu Wenfeng
Published: April 2024

Characterized by rapid maturation, short growth cycles, and high strength and toughness, bamboo can be compounded with polymers to produce bamboofiber reinforced polymeric composites (BFRPCs). These composites exhibit corrosion resistance comparable to traditional materials such as glass fiber and carbon fiber composites. Additionally, they possess features like low density, high strength, degradability, and environmental friendliness, with low production costs and strong industrial applicability. This paper reviews the accomplishments in BFRPCs and provides an overview of the production processes for BFRPCs. Furthermore, it summarizes the research status of mechanical properties, moisture absorption characteristics, interface performance, and flame retardancy of these composites. The current issues with BFRPCs were analyzed. Finally, the paper explores future research directions and potential applications of BFRPCs.

Highlights

The performance studies on BFRPCs are comprehensively presented.

Composite processing of BFPRCs is reviewed.

Pros and cons of various types of BFRPCs are analyzed.

Overview of the applications of BFRPCs in various domains is presented.

Future trends and challenges of BFRPCs are introduced.
Formation of interfacial molecular film and metal‐trapping function of azacalixarene‐containing copolymers having spherulite‐forming ability
Authors: Otsuki Yuto , Terui Ryoma , Shibasaki Yuji , Fujimori Atsuhiro
Published: April 2024

The interfacial molecular film behavior of a newly synthesized copolymer having spherulite‐forming ability and consisting of an azacalixarene moiety and a polyethylene glycol linker was investigated. Furthermore, the ability of the azacalixarene ring in the copolymer Langmuir monolayer to trap metals from the subphase was examined. The copolymer formed a monolayer at the air/water interface with high‐density packing. In addition, the corresponding copolymer formed a stable interfacial monolayer whose behavior did not change significantly as the temperature of the subphase changed. The monolayer morphology exhibited a dot‐like crystalline domain. When the subphase contained cadmium ions, the cyclic moiety showed the ability to trap the metal cations. In this case, the distortion angle of the cup‐shaped conformation of the cyclic moiety in the organized molecular film expanded after metal trapping.

Highlights

LB film of a copolymer containing azacalixarene and PEG units was prepared.

The copolymer formed a dense packing in the LB film.

Copolymer film formed a surface morphology containing crystalline grains.

The copolymer trapped Cd ions in the azacalixarene ring from the subphase.

Due to trapping of Cd ions, the distortion angle of the ring widened by 7°.
The relationship between migration and the Big Five personality traits: Evidence from probability‐based samples
Authors: Décieux Jean Philippe , Altmann Tobias
Published: April 2024

This paper addresses personality psychological determinants of migration behaviour. Using pooled data of two related probability samples (GERPS and SOEP), we examined the association between the Big Five personality traits and the propensity to become internationally mobile. Relying on advanced pre‐processing methods that control for key socio‐demographic and economic determinants, our results show that migration propensity was significantly related to three of the Big Five personality traits. Moreover, we found gender‐specific and cultural differences (based on the language spoken in the destination country) in these relation for some of the Big Five dimensions. These results help to elucidate the process of a migration decision using a personality‐psychological perspective.
Investigation of Nondestructive and Noncontact Electrical Characterization of GaN Thin Film on ScAlMgO4 Substrate Using Terahertz Time‐Domain Spectroscopic Ellipsometry with Characteristic Impedance Analytical Model
Authors: Watanabe Hayato , Wang Dingding , Fujii Takashi , Iwamoto Toshiyuki , Fukuda Tsuguo , Deura Momoko , Araki Tsutomu
Published: April 2024

Semiconductor evaluation methods frequently require sample processing and carry the risk of defects and property changes. Therefore, nondestructive and noncontact electrical property measurement techniques are necessary. Terahertz time‐domain spectroscopic ellipsometry (THz‐TDSE) can simultaneously estimate the electrical properties and film thickness of a sample. However, whether this method can simultaneously determine electrical properties and film thickness for semiconductor thin films of 1 μm or less remains unclear. This study uses THz‐TDSE to evaluate the electrical properties and film thickness of a GaN thin film (≈0.8 μm thick) on a ScAlMgO4 substrate. Using the conventional analysis based on Fresnel's formula (FR model), which is used in the field of optics, uniquely determining the electrical properties and film thickness is not possible owing to multiple optimal solutions. Therefore, a model combining the characteristic impedance model used in the radio‐wave region with the FR model is employed in the analysis. The obtained values of electrical properties of the GaN thin film evaluated using THz‐TDSE are consistent with those using Hall effect measurement. Moreover, the film thickness is consistent with that measured from the cross‐sectional transmission electron microscopy observation.
Therapeutic potential of hypnotic herbal medicines: A comprehensive review
Authors: Ghasemzadeh Rahbardar Mahboobeh , Hosseinzadeh Hossein
Published: April 2024

Insomnia affects millions of people worldwide, prompting considerable interest in herbal remedies for its treatment. This review aims to assess the therapeutic potential of such remedies for insomnia by analyzing current scientific evidence. The analysis identified several herbs, including Rosmarinus officinalis, Crocus sativus, Rosa damascena, Curcuma longa, Valeriana officinalis, Lactuca sativa, Portulaca oleracea, Citrus aurantium, Lippia citriodora, and Melissa officinalis, which show promise in improving overall sleep time, reducing sleep latency, and enhancing sleep quality. These plants act on the central nervous system, particularly the serotonergic and gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic systems, promoting sedation and relaxation. However, further research is necessary to fully understand their mechanisms of action, optimal dosages, and treatment protocols. Combining herbal medicines with conventional treatments may offer an effective natural alternative for those seeking medication. Nevertheless, individuals should consult their healthcare provider before using herbal remedies for insomnia. While this review provides evidence supporting their use, additional high‐quality studies are needed to firmly establish their clinical efficacy.
A treeless absolutely random forest with closed‐form estimators of expected proximities
Authors: Laska Eugene , Lin Ziqiang , Siegel Carole , Marmar Charles
Published: April 2024

We introduce a simple variant of a purely random forest, called an absolute random forest (ARF) used for clustering. Atevery node, splits of units are determined by a randomly chosen feature and a random threshold drawn from a uniform distribution whose support, the range of the selected featurein the root node, does not change. This enables closed‐form estimators of parameters, such as pairwise proximities, to be obtainedwithout having to grow a forest. The probabilistic structure corresponding to an ARF is called a treeless absolute random forest (TARF). With high probability, the algorithm will split units whose feature vectors are far apart and keep together units whose feature vectors are similar. Thus, the underlying structure of the data drives the growth of the tree. The expected value of pairwise proximities is obtained for three pathway functions. One, acompletely common pathwayfunction, is an indicator of whether a pair of units follow the same path from the root to the leaf node. The properties of TARF‐based proximity estimators for clustering and classification are compared to other methods in eight real‐world datasets and in simulations. Results show substantial performance and computing efficiencies of particular value for large datasets.
Data‐driven stochastic model for quantifying the interplay between amyloid‐beta and calcium levels in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Shaheen Hina , Melnik Roderick , Singh Sundeep ,   The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: April 2024

The abnormal aggregation of extracellular amyloid‐β in senile plaques resulting in calcium dyshomeostasis is one of the primary symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Significant research efforts have been devoted in the past to better understand the underlying molecular mechanisms driving deposition and dysregulation. Importantly, synaptic impairments, neuronal loss, and cognitive failure in AD patients are all related to the buildup of intraneuronal accumulation. Moreover, increasing evidence show a feed‐forward loop between and levels, that is, disrupts neuronal levels, which in turn affects the formation of . To better understand this interaction, we report a novel stochastic model where we analyze the positive feedback loop between and using ADNI data. A good therapeutic treatment plan for AD requires precise predictions. Stochastic models offer an appropriate framework for modeling AD since AD studies are observational in nature and involve regular patient visits. The etiology of AD may be described as a multi‐state disease process using the approximate Bayesian computation method. So, utilizing ADNI data from ‐year visits for AD patients, we employ this method to investigate the interplay between and levels at various disease development phases. Incorporating the ADNI data in our physics‐based Bayesian model, we discovered that a sufficiently large disruption in either metabolism or intracellular homeostasis causes the relative growth rate in both and , which corresponds to the development of AD. The imbalance of ions causes disorders by directly or indirectly affecting a variety of cellular and subcellular processes, and the altered homeostasis may worsen the abnormalities of ion transportation and deposition. This suggests that altering the balance or the balance between and by chelating them may be able to reduce disorders associated with AD and open up new research possibilities for AD therapy.
Moving up toward sustainable development: Digital finance and income mobility
Authors: Yan Zhu , Xiao Jing Jian , Sun Qiong
Published: April 2024

The fact that financial exclusion leads to income inequality is detrimental to sustainable economic growth. Digital finance facilitates the provision of financial services to poor people and has the potential to promote income mobility so that to reduce income inequality. This study uses the Digital Financial Inclusion Index and household data from the China Household Finance Survey to examine the association between digital finance and households’ income mobility. Results show a significantly positive association between digital finance and upward income mobility. Underlying mechanism analyses suggest that digital finance is positively associated with upward mobility through the channels of equal opportunity and financial capability. Further heterogeneous analyses find that asset, education, and age can be moderators in the relationship between digital finance and income mobility. The findings demonstrate the importance of digital finance in promoting the income mobility of disadvantaged people and achieving the goal of inclusive and sustainable development.
Droplet Microfluidic Devices: Working Principles, Fabrication Methods, and Scale‐Up Applications
Authors: Ma Li , Zhao Xiong , Hou Junsheng , huang Lei , Yao Yilong , Ding Zihan , Wei Jinjia , Hao Nanjing
Published: April 2024

Compared with the conventional emulsification method, droplets generated within microfluidic devices exhibit distinct advantages such as precise control of fluids, exceptional monodispersity, uniform morphology, flexible manipulation, and narrow size distribution. These inherent benefits, including intrinsic safety, excellent heat and mass transfer capabilities, and large surface‐to‐volume ratio, have led to the widespread applications of droplet‐based microfluidics across diverse fields, encompassing chemical engineering, particle synthesis, biological detection, diagnostics, emulsion preparation, and pharmaceuticals. However, despite its promising potential for versatile applications, the practical utilization of this technology in commercial and industrial is extremely limited to the inherently low production rates achievable within a single microchannel. Over the past two decades, droplet‐based microfluidics has evolved significantly, considerably transitioning from a proof‐of‐concept stage to industrialization. And now there is a growing trend towards translating academic research into commercial and industrial applications, primarily driven by the burgeoning demands of various fields. This paper comprehensively reviews recent advancements in droplet‐based microfluidics, covering the fundamental working principles and the critical aspect of scale‐up integration from working principles to scale‐up integration. Based on the existing scale‐up strategies, the paper also outlines the future research directions, identifies the potential opportunities, and addresses the typical unsolved challenges.
Epistemic networks and the social nature of public engagement with science
Authors: Feinstein Noah Weeth , Baram‐Tsabari Ayelet
Published: April 2024

This theoretical paper focuses on the social processes of public engagement with science and their implications for science education. The core of our argument is that science education should help people become better at evaluating, using, and curating their epistemic networks to make personal and civic decisions and to understand the natural world. In this context, an epistemic network is a set of people who support sensemaking by providing new information and aiding in the interpretation and reconstruction of scientific knowledge in context. We believe epistemic networks are an important consideration for science education, particularly when misinformation plays an outsized role in the cultural landscape. Understanding when epistemic networks are useful and how science education should incorporate them requires a clear sense of how they work in different contexts. We start by contrasting the inevitably social nature of all public engagement with science with the particularly social or interpersonal nature of some public engagement with science. We draw on research from education, communication, and science and technology studies to develop the idea of an epistemic network and to describe two basic types: the individual resource network and the collective action network. We illustrate each type with an extended example that is hypothetical but informed by both research and experience. Finally, we discuss how science education can incorporate epistemic networks, as well as the challenges inherent in that educational strategy.
Interleukin‐4 inhibits the hypothalamic appetite control by modulating the insulin‐AKT and JAK‐STAT signaling in leptin mutant mice
Authors: Chen Shu‐Mei , Hsiao Chiao‐Wan , Chen Yen‐Ju , Hong Chen‐Jee , Lin Jung‐Chun , Yang Ching‐Ping , Chang Yih‐Hsin
Published: April 2024

Our previous research identified interleukin‐4 (IL‐4) as a key regulator of glucose/lipid metabolism, circulatory leptin levels, and insulin action, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for obesity and related complications. This study aimed to further elucidate the role of IL‐4 in regulating hypothalamic appetite‐controlling neuropeptides using leptin dysfunctional Leptin145E/145E mice as the experimental model. IL‐4 significantly reduces body weight, food intake, and serum glucose levels. Our data demonstrated that IL‐4 exhibits multiple functions in regulating hypothalamic appetite control, including downregulating orexigenic agouti‐related peptide and neuropeptide Y levels, promoting expression of anorexigenic proopiomelanocortin, alleviating microenvironmental hypothalamic inflammation, enhancing leptin and insulin pathway, and attenuating insulin resistance. Furthermore, IL‐4 promotes uncoupling protein 1 expression of white adipose tissue (WAT), suggesting its role in triggering WAT‐beige switch. In summary, this study uncovers novel function of IL‐4 in mediating food‐intake behaviors and metabolic efficiency by regulating hypothalamic appetite‐control and WAT browning activities. These findings support the therapeutic potential of targeting hypothalamic inflammation and reducing adiposity through IL‐4 intervention for tackling the pandemic increasing prevalence of obesity and associated metabolic disorders.
The E3 ubiquitin ligase ITCH negatively regulates intercellular communication via gap junctions by targeting connexin43 for lysosomal degradation
Authors: Totland Max Zachrisson , Knudsen Lars Mørland , Rasmussen Nikoline Lander , Omori Yasufumi , Sørensen Vigdis , Elster Vilde C. Wivestad , Stenersen Jakob Mørkved , Larsen Mathias , Jensen Caroline Lunder , Zickfeldt Lade Anna A. , Bruusgaard Emilie , Basing Sebastian , Kryeziu Kushtrim , Brech Andreas , Aasen Trond , Lothe Ragnhild A. , Leithe Edward
Published: April 2024

Intercellular communication via gap junctions has a fundamental role in regulating cell growth and tissue homeostasis, and its dysregulation may be involved in cancer development and radio- and chemotherapy resistance. Connexin43 (Cx43) is the most ubiquitously expressed gap junction channel protein in human tissues. Emerging evidence indicates that dysregulation of the sorting of Cx43 to lysosomes is important in mediating the loss of Cx43-based gap junctions in cancer cells. However, the molecular basis underlying this process is currently poorly understood. Here, we identified the E3 ubiquitin ligase ITCH as a novel regulator of intercellular communication via gap junctions. We demonstrate that ITCH promotes loss of gap junctions in cervical cancer cells, which is associated with increased degradation of Cx43 in lysosomes. The data further indicate that ITCH interacts with and regulates Cx43 ubiquitination and that the ITCH-induced loss of Cx43-based gap junctions requires its catalytic HECT (homologous to E6-AP C-terminus) domain. The data also suggest that the ability of ITCH to efficiently promote loss of Cx43-based gap junctions and degradation of Cx43 depends on a functional PY (PPXY) motif in the C-terminal tail of Cx43. Together, these data provide new insights into the molecular basis underlying the degradation of Cx43 and have implications for the understanding of how intercellular communication via gap junctions is lost during cancer development.