bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantification of uncertainties in projections of extreme daily precipitation simulated by CMIP6 GCMs over homogeneous regions of India
Authors: Nair Meera M. , Rajesh A. Naga , Sahai A. K. , Lakshmi Kumar T. V.
Published: October 2023

Global climate model (GCM) projections are subject to significant uncertainties. Quantifying uncertainties in climate change projections improves credibility and makes climate data more reliable. This study aims to quantify the uncertainties in projected extreme precipitation during the 21st century over the homogeneous rainfall regions of India simulated by Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) GCMs. The percentile‐based square root error variance (SREV) method estimates model, scenario and ensemble uncertainties in projections of extreme precipitation. The uncertainty is investigated at four thresholds: 95th, 99th, 99.9th and 100th percentiles. The results show that the wet northeast region has a greater SREV, which is consistent with previous studies. At 99th and 99.9th percentiles, relative model SREV is dominant over the northeast (NE) region. However, at the 95th percentile high relative model SREV is found over the northwest (NW) region during southwest (June, July, August and September) and NE (October, November and December) monsoon seasons. Model uncertainty is the main source of uncertainty, followed by scenario and ensemble uncertainties. The study indicates that the arid NW region in India has a higher level of uncertainty than other regions with homogeneous rainfall. These findings will assist policymakers in planning infrastructure development in arid regions of India.
In‐between self‐marketing and collaboration: Researcher identity formation in the usage of academic social network sites
Authors: Söldner Jens‐Henrik
Published: October 2023

Academic social network sites (ASNS) are a special case of social networking sites, providing a professional identity for management scholars online. Due to the particular requirements of academic work, usage patterns deviate from those on other social networking sites. The study presented here takes an in‐depth look at needs and gratifications in the usage of ASNS. In contrast to earlier studies of the same kind, it includes social influence from the academic community as another theoretical lens to identify cross‐individual effects. Based on 19 interviews with members of a community in business and management research, the study discusses knowledge and information transfer, enjoyment and entertainment, social interaction and professional belonging, self‐promotion and escapism as critical issues in using ASNS. For each of these issues, the study reveals various patterns in which gratifications are affected by social influence. They can be considered as specific characteristic of ASNS in the contexts of scientific research and teaching that contribute to a better understanding of the specificities of social media usage in academia.
Seed biopriming as a promising approach for stress tolerance and enhancement of crop productivity: a review
Authors: Srivastava Sonal , Tyagi Rashi , Sharma Shilpi
Published: October 2023

Chemicals are used extensively in agriculture to increase crop production to meet the nutritional needs of an expanding world population. However, their injudicious application adversely affects the soil's physical, chemical and biological properties, subsequently posing a substantial threat to human health and global food security. Beneficial microorganisms improve plant health and productivity with minimal impact on the environment; however, their efficacy greatly relies on the application technique. Biopriming is an advantageous technique that involves the treatment of seeds with beneficial biological agents. It exhibits immense potential in improving the physiological functioning of seeds, thereby playing a pivotal role in their uniform germination and vigor. Biopriming‐mediated molecular and metabolic reprogramming imparts stress tolerance to plants, improves plant health, and enhances crop productivity. Furthermore, it is also associated with rehabilitating degraded land, and improving soil fertility, health and nutrient cycling. Although biopriming has vast applications in the agricultural system, its commercialization and utilization by farmers is still in its infancy. This review aims to critically analyze the recent studies based on biopriming‐mediated stress mitigation by alteration in physiological, metabolic and molecular processes in plants. Additionally, considering the necessity of popularizing this technique, the major challenges and prospects linked to the commercialization and utilization of this technique in agricultural systems have also been discussed. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Inequities in cancer surgical research capacity in the global south and strategies to address them
Authors: Murthy Shilpa S. , Are Chandrakanth
Published: October 2023

Globally, cancer is a leading cause of premature mortality and incidence is rising rapidly. To mitigate the cancer burden establishing research programs that are country and/or region specific will inform evidence‐based cancer control policies and programs. However inequities in surgical cancer research in the global south exist and in this article we discuss gaps and potential solutions through frameworks focusing on research training, building infrastructure, economic strategies, and research ethics.
An additively manufactured model for preclinical testing of cervical devices
Authors: Wahbeh Jenna M. , Hookasian Erika , Lama John , Alam Labiba , Park Sang‐Hyun , Sangiorgio Sophia N. , Ebramzadeh Edward
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Composite models have become commonplace for the assessment of fixation and stability of total joint replacements; however, there are no comparable models for the cervical spine to evaluate fixation. The goal of this study was to create the framework for a tunable non‐homogeneous model of cervical vertebral body by identifying the relationships between strength, in‐fill density, and lattice structure and creating a final architectural framework for specific strengths to be applied to the model.

Methods

The range of material properties for cervical spine were identified from literature. Using additive manufacturing software, rectangular prints with three lattice structures, gyroid, triangle, zig‐zag, and a range of in‐fill densities were 3D‐printed. The compressive and shear strengths for all combinations were calculated in the axial and coronal planes. Eleven unique vertebral regions were selected to represent the distribution of density. Each bone density was converted to strength and subsequently correlated to the lattice structure and in‐fill density with the desired material properties. Finally, a complete cervical vertebra model was 3D‐printed to ensure sufficient print quality.

Results

Materials testing identified a relationship between in‐fill densities and strength for all lattice structures. The axial compressive strength of the gyroid specimens ranged from 1.5 MPa at 10% infill to 31.3 MPa at 100% infill and the triangle structure ranged from 2.7 MPa at 10% infill to 58.4 MPa at 100% infill. Based on these results, a cervical vertebra model was created utilizing cervical cancellous strength values and the corresponding in‐fill density and lattice structure combination. This model was then printed with 11 different in‐fill densities ranging from 33% gyroid to 84% triangle to ensure successful integration of the non‐homogeneous in‐fill densities and lattice structures.

Conclusions

The findings from this study introduced a framework for using additive manufacturing to create a tunable, customizable biomimetic model of a cervical vertebra.
Ultrasound and surfactant‐assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction prior to poly(ethylene oxide)‐mediated stacking in CE for highly sensitive determination of barbiturates in human fluids
Authors: Tseng Li Hsin , Liang Pei‐Chi , Chiu Tai‐Chia , Hsieh Ming‐Mu
Published: October 2023

This study developed a facile, highly sensitive technique for extracting and quantifying barbiturates in serum samples. This method combined ultrasound and surfactant‐assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction with poly(ethylene oxide)‐mediated stacking in capillary electrophoresis. Factors influencing the extraction and stacking performance, such as the type and volume of extraction solvents, the type and concentration of surfactant, extraction time, salt additives, sample matrix, solution pH, and composition of the background electrolyte, were carefully studied and optimized to achieve the optimal detection sensitivity. Under the optimized extraction (injecting 140 μL C2H4Cl2 into 1 mL of sample with pH 4 (5 mM sodium phosphate containing 0.05 mM Tween 20 and sonication for 1 min) and separation conditions (150 mM tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane‐borate with pH 8.5 containing 0.5% (m/v) poly(ethylene oxide)), the limits of detection (signal‐to‐noise ratio = 3) of five barbiturates ranged from 0.20 to 0.33 ng/mL, and the calculated sensitivity improvement ranged from 868‐ to 1700‐fold. The experimental results revealed excellent linearity (R2 > 0.99), with relative standard deviations of 2.1%–3.4% for the migration time and 4.3%–5.7% for the peak area. The recoveries of the spiked serum samples were 97.1% –110.3%. Our proposed approach offers a rapid and practical method for quantifying barbiturates in biological fluids.
Sex and diel period influence patterns of resource selection in elk
Authors: Padilla Benjamin J. , Banfield Jeremiah E. , Larkin Jeffery L.
Published: October 2023

Resource selection and space use are important aspects of an animal's ecology and understanding these behaviors is necessary for proper wildlife management. We used mixed‐effect integrated step‐selection models to evaluate seasonal variation in resource selection between male and female elk (Cervus canadensis) and diel periods in central Pennsylvania, USA. Resource selection varied seasonally, between sexes, and across diel periods. These results demonstrate strong seasonal sexual segregation in resource use, and movements between habitats throughout the day, highlighting the dynamic nature of resource selection by elk and underscoring the importance of considering sexual variation at multiple temporal scales when designing ungulate management strategies. Finally, we developed habitat suitability maps for male and female elk in the Pennsylvania Elk Management Area. Wildlife ecologists and managers must consider multiple sources of variation in habitat use and resource selection, particularly for large mobile species such as elk.
Comparing Sleep Patterns and Clinical Features between Preschool and School‐Age Children with OSA
Authors: Chen Le , Huang Jingjing , Jiang Tao , Luo Huiping , Wei Chunsheng , Wu Haitao , Shao Jun , Li Wenyan
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate sleep patterns and investigate differences in clinical features among young individuals with snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Methods

Data from 213 children and adolescents who underwent polysomnography (PSG) for primary snoring or OSA were collected between July 2017 and December 2021. To analyze differences in sleep architecture, hypoxia levels, and other clinical features, the participants were divided into two age groups: a preschool group and a school‐age group.

Results

The school‐age group had significantly higher apnea‐hypopnea index, obstructive apnea index, oxygen desaturation index, and body mass index than the preschool group. Both the lowest and average oxygen saturation levels were lower in the school‐age group. Adenoid hypertrophy was more prevalent in the preschool group. The rate of overweight or obesity was 35.6% in the preschool group and even 94.2% in the school‐age group. There were higher percentages of N1 and N2 sleep stages, and lower percentages of N3 and REM sleep stages in the school‐age group. The groups exhibiting moderate to severe OSA demonstrated significant alterations in the difference between sleeping and waking diastolic blood pressure.

Conclusion

There is a higher frequency of respiratory events among school‐age children compared with their preschool peers. Moreover, alterations in sleep structure are more prominent in the school‐age group. Adenoid hypertrophy may serve as the primary instigator of OSA in preschool children, whereas the predominant causes in school‐age children may be obesity or excessive weight.

Level of Evidence

Retrospective chart review, 3 Laryngoscope, 134:1472–1478, 2024
Response of soil microbial α‐diversity to grazing in grassland ecosystems: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Hang , Song Jianchao , Hou Qingqing , Yu Xiaojun
Published: October 2023

Grazing is one of the most important forms of terrestrial use, and the soil microbial community plays an important role in nutrient cycling and biodiversity maintenance of grazing grassland, but the response of soil bacterial and fungal communities α‐diversity to grazing and the potential mechanisms of grazing‐induced soil microbial change have not been well synthesized. We conducted a meta‐analysis of 87 pairs of globally distributed observations from 35 published papers to investigate the response of the soil microbial community to grazing and the underlying mechanisms. Our results showed that light grazing increased the soil bacterial community Shannon index by 2.4%, but the soil fungal Shannon index decreased by 21.4%. Yak (Bos grunniens) grazing significantly increased the soil bacterial and fungal Shannon index by 1.5% and 11.3%, respectively. Grazing duration of 5–10 years increased the soil bacterial Chao1 index by 9.1% and fungal Chao1 and evenness indexes by 11.3% and 30.4%, respectively. In areas with <400 mm of precipitation, grazing decreased the soil bacterial Simpson index, and in areas of ≥400 mm, grazing also reduced the soil bacterial Simpson and increased the fungal richness and evenness. A linear analysis between soil microbial α‐diversity indexes and other related variables showed that soil bacterial and fungal communities α‐diversity and abundance under grazing conditions were significantly and positively correlated with grassland vegetation, soil pH, soil water content (SWC), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), organic carbon (SOC), and nitrate nitrogen (NO3−‐N), suggesting that changes in microbial communities were the combined result of grazing‐induced vegetation and soil changes. Our results revealed the effects of grazing on soil bacterial and fungal α‐diversity and their underlying mechanisms, which provide a basis for advocating moderate grazing and studying grassland management practices.
Direct contribution of invertebrate holobionts to methane release from coastal sediments
Authors: Politi Tobia , Zilius Mindaugas , Bartoli Marco , Cardini Ulisse , Marzocchi Ugo , Bonaglia Stefano
Published: October 2023

Sediment macrofauna play a vital role in sustaining aquatic food webs and biogeochemical cycles. Previous research demonstrated that bioturbation indirectly affects methane (CH4) dynamics through mobilization of porewater and alteration of microbial processes in the surrounding sediment. However, little is known on the direct contribution of macrofauna holobionts (the assemblage of invertebrate host and associated microbiome) to biogeochemical fluxes. Here, we investigated how 19 taxa of macrofauna holobionts, from different estuarine habitats spanning 40° to 63° latitude, directly contribute to CH4 fluxes. Deep burrowing infauna and deposit feeders were responsible for the highest CH4 production, whereas epifauna and filter feeders promoted oxidative CH4 consumption. Among the different environmental parameters, salinity was inversely correlated with CH4 production by macrofauna holobionts, with the process suppressed at high salinity (≥ 33). This study provides empirical evidence on how functional traits and environmental factors influence sediment invertebrates' contribution to CH4 fluxes.
On‐Chip Near‐Infrared Spectral Sensing with Minimal Plasmon‐Modulated Channels
Authors: Zheng Qilin , Nan Xianghong , Chen Bojun , Wang Haiquan , Nie Hu , Gao Mengting , Liu Zhong , Wen Long , Cumming David R.S. , Chen Qin
Published: October 2023

Spectroscopy is widely used in biomedicine, agriculture, remote sensing, industrial process monitoring, etc. The emerging on‐chip integration techniques further extend these applications to on‐site and portable operating modes. However, realizing high‐applicability and low‐cost spectroscopy chips is still a major challenge particularly in infrared due to the requirements on a large number of spectral channels. Here, a compact and low‐cost near‐infrared spectral sensing platform is demonstrated, releasing the burden of scaling up the spectral channel and simultaneously keeping a high accuracy in chemical classification. The monolithically integrated spectral sensor consists of a small amount of plasmon‐modulated narrowband photodetection units and operates with on‐chip photoelectric responses via a statistical machine learning method. Both plasmonic resonances with low spectral correlation and advanced regression algorithms contribute to high sensing accuracy in the case of limited hardware resources. Chemical concentration quantification, plastic sorting, and scanning spectral imaging are realized using such a sensor with up to twelve spectral channels. This concept avoids the uncertainty of various spectral reconstruction algorithms, high cost, and processing complexity and therefore provides promising strategies for miniaturized spectral sensing platforms.
Crystallization of Na2SrGe6O14:Cr3+,Yb3+ Glass Ceramics Enabling a Watt‐Level Output Power NIR‐I/NIR‐II Lighting Source
Authors: Wang Taoze , Wang Yuzhen , Chen Weibin , Xia Zhiguo
Published: October 2023

Near‐infrared (NIR) phosphor‐converted light‐emitting diodes (pc‐LEDs) lighting sources are applied in non‐destructive examination and illumination supplements for night monitoring. As a critical component of NIR pc‐LED, NIR phosphors are required to possess a high external quantum efficiency (EQE), super thermal stability, and broadband emission to meet applications. Here, Na2SrGe6O14:Cr3+ (NSGO:Cr) glass ceramics (GC) bulk via highly crystallization from glass precursor is fabricated and demonstrates an ultrabroad emission band centered at 815 nm with a full width at half‐maximum (FWHM) of 214 nm and a high EQE of 49.2%. Moreover, Yb3+ co‐doping significantly enhances Cr3+ → Yb3+ energy transfer (ET) due to the stronger Yb3+: 2F7/2‐2F5/2 absorption. Benefiting from the ET process, the Cr/Yb co‐doped GC exhibits NIR‐I/II emission with improved thermal stability from 30.1% to 65.0%. Furthermore, an encapsulant‐free NIR GC‐converted LED (GCc‐LED) is prepared and exhibits 52.2 mW NIR output power with a high photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of 19.4%. Under a large current of 600 mA, the NIR device exhibits a watt‐level output power of 922.4 mW with a PCE of 9.1%. Compared to conventional NIR powder phosphors, NSGO:Cr/Yb GC with high performance can open up an avenue for the fabrication of high power NIR lighting sources.
FOXK1 upregulation is correlated with tumor progression and tumor associated macrophages infiltration in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Chen Shaojun , Pan Xiuwu , Zhang Liang , Cui Xingang , Ye Jianqing
Published: October 2023

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the most common urological cancers in adults. Forkhead box k1 (FOXK1) is a transcription factor involved in the progression of various malignant tumors. In this study, we aimed to investigate the expression and roles of FOXK1 in RCC development. Our findings revealed increased expression of FOXK1 in RCC tumor tissues and cell lines compared with normal controls. Functional assays demonstrated that knockdown of FOXK1 significantly inhibited proliferation, migration, invasion, and promoted apoptosis in RCC cells. Furthermore, FOXK1 knockdown suppressed epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and Wnt signaling in RCC cells. Additionally, we observed a correlation between FOXK1 upregulation and tumor associated macrophages infiltration in RCC. These results suggest that FOXK1 acts as an oncogene in RCC and may serve as a potential therapeutic target for RCC treatment.
Association of KDR (rs2071559, rs1870377), CFH (rs1061170, rs1410996) genes variants and serum levels with pituitary adenoma
Authors: Bruzaite Akvile , Gedvilaite Greta , Kriauciuniene Loresa , Liutkeviciene Rasa
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Pituitary adenomas (PA) are slow‐growing, benign tumors that usually do not metastasize to other body organs. Although they are referred to as benign, tumor growth can eventually put pressure on nearby structures, spread to surrounding tissues, and cause symptoms. The exact cause of PA is unknown, and the pathogenesis is multifactorial.

Methods

Our study included PA patients and healthy volunteers. Genomic DNA was extracted using the DNA salting‐out method. All participants were genotyped for the KDR rs2071559, rs1870377, CFH rs1061170, and rs1410996 polymorphisms. Serum levels of KDR and CFH were examined using the ELISA method.

Results

The results of the present study showed that KDR rs2071559 A allele was associated with the occurrence of PA, hormonally active PA, invasive PA, and PA without recurrence development. KDR rs1870377 increased the probability of invasive PA and PA recurrence. CFH rs1061170 C allele was associated with hormonally active PA and the T allele was associated with non‐invasive PA development.

Conclusion

KDR rs2071559, rs1870377, and CFH rs1061170 could be potential biomarkers associated with PA.
Exact solutions to a family of position‐dependent mass damped oscillators from variational λ‐symmetries
Authors: Ruiz Serván Adrián , Muriel Patino María Concepción
Published: October 2023

A wide family of position‐dependent mass damped oscillators affected by an external potential is investigated. First, a Lagrangian formulation is introduced for the corresponding problem. The Lagrangian function is time‐dependent, and the problem cannot be approached with classical procedures because it lacks variational symmetries. Therefore, the variational
‐symmetry method is applied to find exact solutions. Variational
‐symmetries are determined for a family of potential functions, which lead to a one‐parameter family of exact solutions. The results are applied to particular examples corresponding to some interesting mass functions reported in the previous literature.
ISMRM Open Science Initiative for Perfusion Imaging (OSIPI): ASL pipeline inventory
Authors: Fan Hongli , Mutsaerts Henk J. M. M. , Anazodo Udunna , Arteaga Daniel , Baas Koen P. A. , Buchanan Charlotte , Camargo Aldo , Keil Vera C. , Lin Zixuan , Lindner Thomas , Hirschler Lydiane , Hu Jian , Padrela Beatriz E. , Taghvaei Mohammad , Thomas David L. , Dolui Sudipto , Petr Jan
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To create an inventory of image processing pipelines of arterial spin labeling (ASL) and list their main features, and to evaluate the capability, flexibility, and ease of use of publicly available pipelines to guide novice ASL users in selecting their optimal pipeline.

Methods

Developers self‐assessed their pipelines using a questionnaire developed by the Task Force 1.1 of the ISMRM Open Science Initiative for Perfusion Imaging. Additionally, each publicly available pipeline was evaluated by two independent testers with basic ASL experience using a scoring system created for this purpose.

Results

The developers of 21 pipelines filled the questionnaire. Most pipelines are free for noncommercial use (n = 18) and work with the standard NIfTI (Neuroimaging Informatics Technology Initiative) data format (n = 15). All pipelines can process standard 3D single postlabeling delay pseudo‐continuous ASL images and primarily differ in their support of advanced sequences and features. The publicly available pipelines (n = 9) were included in the independent testing, all of them being free for noncommercial use. The pipelines, in general, provided a trade‐off between ease of use and flexibility for configuring advanced processing options.

Conclusion

Although most ASL pipelines can process the common ASL data types, only some (namely, ASLPrep, ASLtbx, BASIL/Quantiphyse, ExploreASL, and MRICloud) are well‐documented, publicly available, support multiple ASL types, have a user‐friendly interface, and can provide a useful starting point for ASL processing. The choice of an optimal pipeline should be driven by specific data to be processed and user experience, and can be guided by the information provided in this ASL inventory.
A 3D cohesive‐frictional coupled interface model for mesoscale simulation of steel fibre‐reinforced concrete
Authors: Yang Zhenjun , Zhang Xin , Wang Zhenyu , Li Q. M.
Published: October 2023

A 3D mesoscale finite element modelling approach is developed for simulating complicated damage and fracture behaviour in steel fibre‐reinforced concrete (SFRC) with explicit modelling of fibre–matrix interfaces. In this approach, a new 3D four‐noded cohesive‐frictional coupled interface element is developed to model the nonlinear interfacial bond‐slip behaviour, supplemented by a kinematic multiple‐point‐constraint (kMPC) algorithm to simulate the wrapping effect of the mortar around the fibres. They are implemented as a user‐defined element (UEL) and a user‐defined MPC subroutine in ABAQUS, respectively. Three cohesive‐frictional constitutive relationships are proposed to describe the nonlinear bond‐slip behaviour of different fibre–matrix compositions. The new approach is validated by single fibre pullout tests, direct tensile tests and three‐point bending tests of SFRC specimens with randomly distributed fibres. The results show that the new approach is capable of effectively capturing typical failure mechanisms in SFRC, such as fibre yielding, matrix failure, and fibre–matrix debonding and slipping.
Developing a prediction model of career plateau for nurses: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zhu Hongmei , Li Mingzi
Published: October 2023

Aim

The study aimed to understand the current situation regarding career plateaus experienced by nurses. The objectives were to analyze factors influencing career plateau, and develop a prediction model for career plateau for nurses.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted using convenience sampling.

Methods

Participants were 2680 nurses from six tertiary hospitals. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were carried out to investigate the influencing factors and develop a prediction model of career plateau.

Results

The overall incidence rate of nurses reaching a career plateau was 34%. Logistic regression analysis showed that age, position, whether specialized nurses, life satisfaction, organizational support, personal ability and selection tendency were the factors influencing career plateau. The prediction model indicates that older nurses are more likely to reach a career plateau than their younger counterparts, and those who think they have strong personal ability and do not value their work very much are more likely to have a career plateau. Giving nurses more promotion space and learning opportunities, improving life satisfaction, and organizational support are conducive to reducing the occurrence of career plateau.
Resilience, activities of daily living, and well‐being in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Chen Chia‐Pei , Lee Szu‐Ying , Tsay Shiow‐Luan , Tung Heng‐Hsin
Published: October 2023

Aim

The aim was to investigate the associations of activities of daily living, resilience and the well‐being among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and provide a long‐term follow‐up study.

Design

A longitudinal design was used.

Methods

The instruments included the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) Scale to assess the activities of daily living as well as the Resilience Scale and Well‐Being Scale. A regression analysis was used to predict the factors related to well‐being. A repeated‐measures ANOVA was used for long‐term follow‐up with regard to IADLs, resilience and well‐being.

Results

A total of 105 eligible participants were enrolled, of whom 59% were men and 41% were women. Interactions at three time points among IADLs, resilience, and well‐being were reported. IADLs were significantly and positively associated with resilience and well‐being. Resilience was a significant predictor of well‐being. The well‐being score increased by 0.24 points for every 1‐point increase in the resilience score.

Conclusion

IADLs, resilience, and well‐being are correlated in patients with CKD, and resilience is a predictor of well‐being. Higher resilience is associated with higher well‐being. Therefore, clinical care providers need to access the resilience level of CKD patients as early as possible and design appropriate interventions to improve mental health and quality of life.
Supporters' experiences of sensory characteristics of children with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities in after‐school daycare centres: A qualitative study
Authors: Koto Yuta , Tomozawa Machiko , Sato Toshiaki , Niinomi Kazuteru , Sakai Norio , Nagai Toshisaburo
Published: October 2023

Aim

To examine how supporters working at after‐school daycare centres, who are involved in the lives of children with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities in the community, pay attention to the sensory characteristics of these children and provide support.

Design

A qualitative descriptive design.

Methods

Data were collected through semi‐structured interviews with 20 supporters in after‐school daycare centres. Interview transcripts were analysed via qualitative content analysis.

Results

The participants' years of involvement in supporting children with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities ranged from 0.5 to 40 years, with an average of 9.8 years. Data were classified into 68 subcategories, 11 categories and three themes: understanding sensory characteristics and devising support, systematic support and challenges supporting the children. Supporters dealt with physical complications and cooperated with other caregivers to understand and respond to children's sensory characteristics. Difficulties dealing with sensory characteristics, challenges due to the supporters' own characteristics and challenges with the facility's infrastructure were identified. The findings could guide sensory characteristics considerations and support systems in after‐school daycare facilities for children with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities. Both support content and challenges in supporting these children were identified.
Are policy mixes in energy regulation effective in curbing carbon emissions? Insights from China's energy regulation policies
Authors: Wu Jianxian , Nie Xin , Wang Han
Published: October 2023

We consider the policy mixes of three categories of energy regulation policies in China: renewable energy law (mandatory policy), low‐carbon city pilot (voluntary policy), and carbon emissions trading system (market‐based policy). The mix of mandatory, voluntary, and market‐based policies mitigates 4.359 million metric tons of carbon emissions. Voluntary and market‐based energy policies work, while mandatory policy fails due to rent‐seeking by local officials. Policy mixes are more effective in undeveloped and politically average regions than in developed and politically rich ones. Government attention, industrial structure, and green innovation are the economic mechanisms; consistency, coherence, credibility, and comprehensiveness are the policy mechanisms. Our study highlights that policy category, rather than policy quantity, matters more in determining policy effect.
Material properties of spray‐dried cellulose nanocrystal reinforced homopolymer polypropylene composites
Authors: Wang Xueqi , Wang Pixiang , Liu Shaoyang , Crouse Justin , Gardner Douglas J. , Via Brian , Gallagher Tom , Elder Thomas , Peng Yucheng
Published: October 2023

Spray‐dried cellulose nanocrystal (SDCNC) particles have attracted intense interest as reinforcements in polymer composites because of their unique physical and mechanical properties. This work aims to develop homopolymer polypropylene (HPP) composites with different loading levels of SDCNC particles (5, 10, 15, and 30 wt%) to understand their impact on composite mechanical, morphological, and thermal properties. The SDCNC‐reinforced HPP composites were manufactured using a C.W. Brabender bowl internal mixer with a masterbatch concept and an injection molding process. The mechanical, morphological, and thermal properties of the composites were investigated. Compared to pure HPP, the tensile, and flexural modulus of elasticity (MOE) of composites with 30 wt% SDCNC significantly increased by up to 67% and 49%. The impact strength of the composites with the absence of a compatibilizer significantly increased by up to 19%, which was attributed to the mechanical interlocking network established between SDCNC particles and HPP. Additionally, increasing SDCNC loading in the composites led to higher crystallization peak temperatures and increased the degree of crystallinity (especially at 30 wt% SDCNC content), indicating that the SDCNC particles can act as heterogeneous nucleating agents during the crystallization process. The thermal stability of the composite was slightly improved upon SDCNC introduction.

Highlights

With the incorporation of spray‐dried cellulose nanocrystal (SDCNC), the tensile modulus of elasticity (MOE), flexural MOE, and impact strength of filled homopolymer polypropylene (HPP) composites were significantly improved by up to 67%, 49%, and 19%, respectively.

Mechanical interlocking network established between SDCNC and HPP contributed to the enhanced the impact strength.

SDCNC particles can act as heterogeneous nucleating agents to promote the crystallization process of HPP.

SDCNC particles slightly enhanced the thermal stability of HPP composite.
Influence of bio‐resource‐derived graphene oxide on the mechanical and thermal properties of poly(vinyl alcohol) nanocomposites
Authors: Arya Tanuja , Bohra Bhashkar Singh , Tewari Chetna , Dhali Sunil , Dikshit Vishwesh , Rana Sravendra , Jung Yong Chae , Sahoo Nanda Gopal
Published: October 2023

The present study reports on an environment‐friendly and economically viable method of synthesizing graphene oxide (GO) using agricultural waste, specifically oak (Quercus ilex) fruit. The agricultural waste‐derived GO (AGO) is further used as a reinforcing filler in the fabrication of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) polymer nanocomposites by employing a solution‐mixing process. A series of characterization methods have been used to assess the interactions between AGO and PVA, including, Raman spectroscopy, FT‐IR, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and energy‐dispersive x‐ray (EDX). The thermal and structural properties have been studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)analysis, and a universal testing machine (UTM). The strong H‐bonding interaction between the PVA interface and AGO considerably enhanced interfacial dispersion and adhesion. As a result, the addition of 5 wt% AGO to the PVA polymers significantly improved their mechanical and thermal properties, including tensile strength which rose by 117%, melting temperature (Tm) by 7.02°C, and crystallization temperature (Tc) by 9.06°C. The thermal decomposition temperatures such as T5%, T10% and T50% were increased by 53.68°C, 68.49°C, and 57.37°C, respectively. The results show that a small loading of nanofillers causes substantial increases in the thermal and mechanical properties of PVA, thus making it a promising material for structural applications.
Effect of alumina content on the thermal, mechanical and tribological properties of resin‐based friction materials
Authors: Wang Zhengyun , Ling Junhua , Luan Daocheng , Zhan Libei , Hu Zhihua , Sun Wei , Zhao Xiao
Published: October 2023

To investigate the effect of alumina on the thermal, mechanical, and tribological properties of resin‐based friction materials, five friction materials with different alumina contents were prepared by the hot press molding process. The experimental results showed denser friction materials possessed higher hardness, while compressive strength and compression modulus dropped as alumina decreased. Friction material with 6 wt% alumina exhibited outstanding impact strength and great heat resistance. It also showed excellent friction stability, with a maximum mean coefficient of friction (COF) steady between 0.408 and 0.425 at various braking speeds. The wear resistance of friction materials had a positive relationship with the stability of the COF, and the greater the stability of the COF, the better the wear resistance and the lower the corresponding wear rate. The morphology of the worn surface indicated multiple sources of friction at different braking speeds, and large areas of dense friction films were beneficial to stabilizing the COF and reducing the wear rate.

Highlights

The sample with 6 wt% alumina showed excellent heat resistance, with a residual value of 83.5% at 800°C.

The highest compressive strength and compression modulus were achieved in the sample with 8 wt% alumina.

The sample containing 6 wt% alumina exhibited the highest COF and the lowest wear rate.

The maximum subsurface temperature of the friction materials basically rose as braking speed increased.

Large areas of dense friction films were beneficial to stabilizing the COF and reducing the wear rate.
Effect of different microcapsule types on the wear mechanism of PTFE/aramid fiber composite liners
Authors: Yan Xiaocui , Pang Shifa , Qi Xiaowen , Lu Gaifen , Dong Yu , Liu Changxin , Fan Bingli
Published: October 2023

In this study, three different methods based on vacuum adsorption, solvent volatilization, and Pickering emulsion were utilized to prepare microcapsules with the core material of PAO40 and the wall materials of SiO2, polysulfone (PSF), and PSF/SiO2 composites, respectively. PTFE/Kevlar fabric liners were modified by PAO40/SiO2 microcapsules (PSMS), PAO40/PSF microcapsules (PPMS), and PAO40/PSF/SiO2 microcapsules (PPSMS). The effect of microcapsules based on different wall materials on the tribological properties of liners was investigated by friction and wear tester under low‐speed and heavy‐load conditions. The anti‐friction and anti‐wear mechanisms of several microcapsule types on the liners were systematically investigated. The results showed that PPMS induced the most significant enhancement in anti‐friction properties of liners when compared to pure liner resulting in a 19.4% reduction in coefficient of friction (COF). PSMS was found to reveal much better wear resistance of liners, as evidenced by 75% increase in wear rate. PSMS and PPSMS not only release lubricating oil after the break of microcapsules under the friction action to lubricate, but also generate a cavity to store abrasive debris for liner wear reduction. Nonetheless, PPMS only released the oil onto the friction surfaces for lubrication. PSF as the microcapsule wall material could not contribute to the formation and promote wear resistance of transfer films. SiO2 as a microcapsule wall material participates in the formation and enhances the wear resistance of transfer films. The findings obtained are anticipated to improve the reliability and broaden the range of applications of liners in aerospace and other industrial fields.

Highlights

Three microcapsules all improve the tribological properties of the liners.

Anti‐friction and wear‐resisting mechanism of three microcapsules in liners.

SiO2 as wall material can increase the wear resistance of transfer films.

PAO40 in microcapsules has antifriction effect at the friction interface.
Study on the anchoring performance and failure mechanism of basalt/glass hybrid fiber reinforced plastic anchors in coupled environment
Authors: Ren Yuhang , Wang Hongguang , Wu Gang , Guan Zhongzhi , Yuan Long
Published: October 2023

To investigate the real anchorage performance of basalt and glass hybrid fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) anchors in external corrosive environments. In this paper, a combination of experimental studies and finite element analysis was used. By carrying out pull‐out tests of basalt and glass hybrid FRP anchors under the synergistic effect of freeze–thaw cycles and alkaline environment, the effects of factors such as hole diameter, anchorage length, and mortar strength on their anchorage performance and durability were investigated. Critical corrosion time was introduced to determine the degree of corrosion of the anchor rods. After that, it combined with numerical simulation to reveal the degradation mechanism of the anchorage performance of hybrid anchors. The results showed that the best anchorage performance of basalt/glass hybrid FRP anchors was achieved when the hole diameter was 24 mm, the anchorage length was 175 mm, and the mortar strength was 45.5 MPa. The ultimate pull‐out load was up to 122.16 kN. When the time did not exceed the critical corrosion time, the ultimate load‐carrying capacity of basalt and glass hybrid FRP anchors increased by 9.3% compared to the uncorroded environment. Beyond the critical corrosion time, the ultimate load‐carrying capacity was reduced by 23.3% and the anchorage performance was degraded. In addition, the contact interface between the anchor and the mortar is the weak area of the anchoring structure, which should be focused on in the later design of the actual project.

Highlights

Basalt/glass hybrid FRP anchors have good corrosion resistance.

The anchoring performance of hybrid FRP anchors under the coupled environment is studied.

Hole diameter and anchoring length have more influence on the anchor performance.

The concept of critical corrosion time is put forward.

The failure mechanism and coupling environment influence are revealed by FES.
Carbon fiber in situ grown ZIF‐67 nanocrystals with excellent electrochemical and interfacial property
Authors: Pu Guohong , Yang Aoshuang , Li Yongsheng , Jiang Zhuoni , Li Xiaoan , Chen Zhengguo , He Ren , Zhang Kai , Yang Wenbin
Published: October 2023

Carbon fiber(CF) reinforced flexible composites had a wide range of applications. However, the interfacial adhesion of composites was weak as a result of the smooth and chemically inert CF surface. To settle this issue, this paper described a method to enhance the specific surface area, roughness and wettability of the CF surface by in situ growing Cobalt‐based zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF‐67) nanocrystals and CF reinforced waterborne polyurethane (WPU) composites were prepared by a simple casting method. Scanning electron microscopy clearly revealed uniformly grown ZIF‐67 nanoarrays with distinct morphology on the CF surface. As a result, the CF@ZIF‐3 electrode exhibited excellent electrochemical property, with specific capacitance reaching 368.2 mF/cm2. The reinforcing effect of ZIF‐67 with different morphology was further verified through transverse fiber bundle tension test and shear bonding strength measurements, showing improvements of 51.9 and 72.1% respectively, in comparison to the CF/WPU composites due to the unique structure of the ZIF‐67 nanocrystals acted as buffer area, effectively relieving stress concentration and altering the direction of crack propagation. As a result, the interfacial properties of the composites were enhanced. Moreover, tensile and tear strengths of CF@ZIF/WPU composites showed remarkable improvement compared to CF/WPU composites. This study presented a potential reinforcement strategy for achieving high‐performance CF/WPU composites.

Highlights

ZIF‐67 with different morphologies were grown in situ on the CF surface.

CF@ZIF electrode exhibited excellent electrochemical property.

ZIF‐67 interface layer improved interfacial properties of composites.

The tensile strength of the composites improved after ZIF‐67 modification.

Introduction of ZIF‐67 enhanced the tear strength of composites.
Comparative metabolomics study on areca nut from China and Southeast Asia (Thailand and Indonesia)
Authors: Zhang Xiaojuan , Sun Yuanyuan , Qi Huasha , Feng Jian , Hou Wencheng , Liu Yangyang
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Areca nut is an economic crop and an important component in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and ethnomedicine. The crop is rich in alkaloids and flavonoids. Most previous studies have focused on the chemical components, especially alkaloids, in crops from certain areca nut‐producing areas.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to compare the differences in areca nut seeds in two main cultivation areas, identify differential metabolites, and evaluate seed quality in different production areas.

Methods

A widely targeted metabolomics method based on ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐QQQ‐MS), combined with the TCM systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database and multivariate statistical analysis, was used in this study to maximise the differentiation between quality characteristics of areca nut seeds from China and Southeast Asian regions.

Results

Altogether, 1031 metabolites were identified in areca nut seeds; by querying the TCMSP database, 375 metabolites were identified as the main active ingredients. Moreover, the research showed that the metabolic profiles of areca nut seeds from China (ASCN) and Southeast Asia (ASSA) exhibit significant differences, and the difference is mainly reflected in 318 compounds. The relative content of 146 metabolites in ASCN was significantly higher than that in ASSA. Through Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) comparative analysis, areca nut seed metabolites in Chinese production areas were determined to have a wider metabolic pathway.

Conclusion

The areca nut seeds from cultivation areas possess many metabolites that are beneficial for health, including alkaloids, amino acids, phenolic acids, and lipids. Thus, compared with ASSA, ASCN have a higher medicinal value. This study provides a direction for the subsequent development and utilisation of areca nut seeds.
Mechanical enhancement of epoxidized natural rubber by flue gas desulfurization ash as the sole reinforcing filler
Authors: Wei Junwen , Zhuang Wei , Lin Tengfei , Gao Min , Zhao Chunlin , Wu Xiao , Lin Cong , Chen Hong , Su Qingfa
Published: October 2023

Flue gas desulfurization facilities produce flue gas desulfurization ash (FGDA), which has ecological and economic benefits. In this article, we explored the possibility and impact of using FGDA as the sole reinforcing filler to mechanically improve epoxidized natural rubber (ENR). The influence on the properties of the composites was examined. FGDA exhibits good interfacial interaction and compatibility with ENR, which improves the mechanical properties of ENR. When 15 phr FGDA was added, the tensile strength of the composites increased by approximately 41.4% compared with that of pure ENR. This work demonstrates the possibility of using FGDA as an effective and sole reinforcing material to enhance the properties of rubber materials.

Highlights

FGDA improves the mechanical properties of ENR as a sole reinforcing filler.

FGDA reacts with ENR during vulcanization, enhancing compatibility.

Adding 15 phr FGDA to ENR increases the tensile strength by 41.4%.