bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methanol Dehydration to Dimethyl Ether on Ball Milling‐Derived High‐Surface‐Area Alpha‐Alumina Catalysts
Authors: Agbaba Özgül , Amrute Amol P. , Ochoa‐Hernandez Cristina , Triller Sarah , Schüth Ferdi
Published: December 2023

Alpha alumina (α‐Al2O3) catalysts synthesized by ball milling are investigated in the dehydration of methanol to dimethyl ether (DME). The activity and stability of the catalysts were studied in a fixed‐bed continuous‐flow reactor setup. The effect of water vapor in the feed was studied as well. Among different alumina polymorphs studied, γ‐ alumina has been known to be the most effective for this reaction; however, the high surface area α‐Al2O3, which had been synthesized by ball milling, resulted in a comparable rate of methanol conversion, while it revealed a more stable performance under the influence of water vapor. The surface area, the number, and the nature of the acidic sites were found to be relevant parameters for the conversion of methanol to DME. The selectivity was as high as 99 % towards DME.
Ethynyl‐B(dan) in [3+2] Cycloaddition and Larock Indole Synthesis: Synthesis of Stable Boron‐Containing Heteroaromatic Compounds
Authors: Li Jialun , Tanaka Hideya , Imagawa Taiki , Tsushima Takumi , Nakamoto Masaaki , Tan Jiajing , Yoshida Hiroto
Published: December 2023

The cycloaddition of nitrile oxides with ethynyl‐B(dan) (dan=naphthalene‐1,8‐diaminato) allowed the facile preparation of diverse isoxazolyl‐B(dan) compounds, all of which displayed excellent protodeborylation‐resistant properties. The dan‐installation on the boron center proves vital to the high stability of the products as well as the perfect regioselectivity arising from hydrogen bond‐directed orientation in the cycloaddition. The diminished boron‐Lewis acidity of ethynyl‐B(dan) also renders it amenable to azide‐alkyne cycloaddition, Larock indole synthesis and related heteroannulations. The obtained boron‐containing triazole, indoles, benzofuran and indenone exhibit sufficient resistance toward protodeborylation. Despite the commonly accepted transmetalation‐inactive property derived from the diminished Lewis acidity, the synthesized heteroaryl‐B(dan) compound was still found to be convertible to the oligoarene via sequential Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling.
Mono(Lewis Base)‐Stabilized Gallium Iodide: An Unexplored Class of Promising Ligands
Authors: Ahmed Sahtaz , Das Himashri , González‐Pinardo Daniel , Fernández Israel , Phukan Ashwini K.
Published: December 2023

Quantum‐chemical (DFT) calculations on hitherto unknown base(carbene)‐stabilized gallium monoiodides (LB→GaI) suggest that these systems feature one lone pair of electrons and a formally vacant p‐orbital – both centered at the central gallium atom – and exhibit metallomimetic behavior. The calculated reaction free energies as well as bond dissociation energies suggest that these LB→GaI systems are capable of forming stable donor‐acceptor complexes with group 13 trichlorides. Examination of the ligand exchange reactions with iron and nickel complexes indicates their potential use as ligands in transition metal chemistry. In addition, it is found that the title compounds are also able to activate various enthalpically robust bonds. Further, a detailed mechanistic investigation of these small molecule activation processes reveals the non‐innocent behavior of the carbene (base) moiety attached to the GaI fragment, thereby indicating the cooperative nature of these bond activation processes. The energy decomposition analysis (EDA) and activation strain model (ASM) of reactivity were also employed to quantitatively understand and rationalize the different activation processes.
Cholinergic and Nadph‐δ neurons in the pedunculopontine and laterodorsal tegmental nuclei of human and nonhuman primates
Authors: Coulombe Vincent , Goetz Laurent , Bhattacharjee Manik , Gould Peter V. , Saikali Stephan , Takech Mohamad Ali , Philippe Éric , Parent André , Parent Martin
Published: December 2023

The brainstem pedunculopontine (PPN) and laterodorsal tegmental (LDTg) nuclei are involved in multifarious activities, including motor control. Yet, their exact cytoarchitectural boundaries are still uncertain. We therefore initiated a comparative study of the topographical and neurochemical organization of the PPN and LDTg in cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) and humans. The distribution and morphological characteristics of neurons expressing choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and/or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate diaphorase (Nadph‐δ) were documented. The number and density of the labeled neurons were obtained by stringent stereological methods, whereas their topographical distribution was reported upon corresponding magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) planes. In both human and nonhuman primates, the PPN and LDTg are populated by three neurochemically distinct types of neurons (ChAT‐/Nadph‐δ+, ChAT+/Nadph‐δ‐, and ChAT+/Nadph‐δ+), which are distributed according to a complex spatial interplay. Three‐dimensional reconstructions reveal that ChAT+ neurons in the PPN and LDTg form a continuum with some overlaps with pigmented neurons of the locus coeruleus, dorsally, and of the substantia nigra (SN) complex, ventrally. The ChAT+ neurons in the PPN and LDTg are —two to three times more numerous in humans than in monkeys but their density is —three to five times higher in monkeys than in humans. Neurons expressing both ChAT and Nadph‐δ have a larger cell body and a longer primary dendritic arbor than singly labeled neurons. Stereological quantification reveals that 25.6% of ChAT+ neurons in the monkey PPN are devoid of Nadph‐δ staining, a finding that questions the reliability of Nadph‐δ as a marker for cholinergic neurons in primate brainstem.
Cytoarchitectonic and connection stripes in the dysgranular insular cortex in the macaque monkey
Authors: Krockenberger Matthias S. , Saleh‐Mattesich Tatianna O. , Evrard Henry C.
Published: December 2023

The insula has been classically divided into broad granular, dysgranular, and agranular architectonic sectors. We previously proposed a novel partition, dividing each sector into four to seven sharply delimited architectonic areas, with the dysgranular areas being possibly further subdivided into subtle horizontal partitions or “stripes.” In architectonics, discrete subparcellations are prone to subjective variability and need being supported with additional neuroanatomical methods. Here, using a secondary analysis of indirect connectional data in the rhesus macaque monkey, we examined the spatial relationship between the dysgranular architectonic stripes and tract‐tracing labeling patterns produced in the insula with injections of neuronal tracers in other cortical regions. The injections consistently produced sharply delimited patches of anterograde and/or retrograde labeling, which formed stripes across consecutive coronal sections of the insula. While the overall pattern of labeling on individual coronal sections varied with the injection site, the boundaries of the patches consistently coincided with architectonic boundaries on an adjacent cyto‐ (Nissl) and/or myelo‐ (Gallyas) architectonic section. This overlap supports the existence of a fine dysgranular stripe‐like partition of the primate insula, with possibly major implications for interoceptive processing in primates including humans. The modular organization of the insula could underlie a serial stream of integration from a dorsal primary interoceptive cortex toward progressively more ventral egocentric “self‐agency” and allocentric “social” dysgranular processing units.
Amino‐Acid Side‐Chain Nanoarchitectonics for Tuning the Chiroptical Properties and Supramolecular Structure of Pentameric Oligothiophenes
Authors: Björk Linnea , Selegård Robert , Bäck Marcus , Hammarström Per , Lindgren Mikael , Nilsson K. Peter R.
Published: December 2023

Oligothiophenes with specific photophysical properties and molecular organization are of great interest, since this class of materials are used in organic electronics and bioelectronics, as well as biosensing. Herein, 8 different pentameric oligothiophenes, denoted proteophenes, with different amino acid substitution patterns at distinct positions along the thiophene backbone were investigated. Spectroscopic and microscopic studies of the ligands revealed the formation of optically active self‐assembled materials under acidic or basic conditions. The distinct photophysical characteristics, including induced circular dichroism, as well as the supramolecular structures of the assemblies deduced from light scattering and transmission electron microscopy, were highly influenced by the positioning of distinct amino acid moieties along the thiophene backbone. Proteophenes functionalized with only glutamate residues or these functionalities in combination with hydrophobic valine moieties formed fibrillar structures with excellent chiroptical properties under acidic conditions. In addition, the amino acid functionality at the β‐position of distinct thiophene moieties influenced the induced circular dichroism pattern observed from the proteophenes. Overall, the obtained results demonstrate how changes in the position of various amino acid functionalities, as well as the chemical nature of the amino acid side chain functionality greatly affect the optical properties as well as the architecture of the self‐assembled materials.
An ultra‐thin frequency‐selective surface with inductive loading for X‐band shielding applications
Authors: Chellaiah Elango , M Kannan
Published: December 2023

A novel band‐stop frequency‐selective surface (FSS) for X‐band electromagnetic shielding is reported in this study. The single‐layer, single‐sided FSS has frequency‐dependent conductive patterns developed on a polyimide substrate that provides strong rejection to the entire X‐band frequencies. The unit cell FSS has an octagonal loop configuration. Each side of the octagonal loop is alternatively loaded with thick conductive patches and stub lines to reject 8 − 12 GHz with |S21| ≤ −15 dB. The size of the unit cell FSS is 0.167λo × 0.1673λo where λo is the free space wavelength calculated at the center frequency. Owing to the rotational symmetry, the FSS unit cell exhibits mode‐independent characteristics. The bending characteristics of the FSS are analyzed, and the inferences show that the FSS properties remain unchanged under flat and bent cases. The ultra‐thin FSS offers stable frequency response for normal and oblique incidences up to 80°. The designed FSS is fabricated and tested under laboratory conditions to validate the simulation results.
Ecological quality assessment: A framework to report ecosystems quality and their dynamics from reference conditions
Authors: Sturbois Anthony , De Cáceres Miquel , Bifolchi Aline , Bioret Frédéric , Boyé Aurélien , Gauthier Olivier , Grall Jacques , Grémare Antoine , Labrune Céline , Robert Alexandre , Schaal Gauthier , Desroy Nicolas
Published: December 2023

Worldwide, ecosystems are suffering important taxonomic and functional modifications in response to anthropogenic disturbances, operating at multiple spatial and temporal scales. Awareness on biodiversity losses has led to the adoption of conservation policies and the development of programs devoted to the conservation and the restoration of terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems. The assessment of the ecological health of ecosystems requires measuring and characterizing restoration or degradation dynamics and their consequences on the ecological quality with respect to reference conditions defined pragmatically as conservation targets. Methodological innovations, in terms of data collection, analysis, and visualization, have an important influence on the ability of ecologists to understand biodiversity changes. The assessment of the quality of ecosystems with respect to reference conditions requires to address, notably, three main challenges: the definition of reference conditions, the assessment of the degree of achievement of conservation objectives, and the qualitative and quantitative characterization of recovering and departing patterns. We propose here the ecological quality assessment (EQA) framework as a data‐driven approach to track ecological quality focusing on the distance of the tested stations with respect to a chosen reference envelope using fuzzy logic and trajectory analysis. We take advantage of those analytical tools to propose a general and flexible multivariate framework by quantifying the achievement of reference conditions, measuring restoration and degradation dynamics when temporal series are available, and representing and synthesizing this information. To take into account the natural spatiotemporal variability of sites considered as reference, we gave two variants to our framework: a state‐based variant when no temporal replications are available and a trajectory‐based variant specially devoted to compare whole trajectories to a trajectory reference envelope defined by a set of reference trajectories. These two complementary approaches were illustrated through two terrestrial and marine ecological applications using the R package “ecotraj” in order to evidence ecological observations that meet conservation objectives from those that do not meet them. EQA constitutes a flexible framework for the assessment and reporting of ecosystem quality, including restoration and degradation dynamics adaptable to multiple questions in the different fields of ecology and conservation.
Function, composition, digestion, and processing and utilization of silkworm pupae oil: A review
Authors: Zhai Mengkai , Wang Weifei , Zou Yuxiao , Liao Sentai , Wang Siyuan , Mu Lixia
Published: December 2023

Silkworm pupae oil (SPO) has long been a useful resource. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have shown the valuable physiological effects of this oil, and functional oil products with health benefits can be developed using SPO. In this review, recent research on the physiological functions, sources, material composition, digestive characteristics, and processing and use of SPO are summarized, providing a scientific basis for the full exploitation and utilization of SPO.
Peak floor acceleration demands in torsionally irregular buildings
Authors: Jain Ankur , Surana Mitesh
Published: December 2023

Accurate estimation of the peak floor acceleration (PFA) plays a crucial role in ensuring the seismic safety of a building, its contents, and attachments. This study investigates amplification in PFA due to building torsion. Torsionally irregular reinforced‐concrete moment‐resisting frame buildings are analyzed under bidirectional earthquake excitations for five levels of ductility demands. A total of 5600 nonlinear dynamic analyses are conducted on the considered buildings while subjected to the far‐field ground motions suite. It is shown that the existing code provisions significantly underpredict the PFA demands at the flexible edge of elastic and moderately inelastic torsionally irregular buildings. The torsional amplification factors for PFA demands depend on the building's torsional and strength characteristics. Further, these torsional amplification factors are correlated well with the building's elastic floor displacement‐based torsional irregularity indices. Practice‐oriented equations are proposed to predict the torsional amplification factors for PFA demands in torsionally irregular buildings. The proposed equations can be easily used after estimating the elastic floor displacement‐based torsional irregularity indices using the modal superposition method. When applied with the latest ASCE 7 provisions, the proposed equations provide reasonably accurate estimates of the PFA demands in torsionally irregular buildings.
Male‐philopatric nonhuman primates and their potential role in understanding the evolution of human sociality
Authors: Milich Krista M.
Published: December 2023

In most primate species, males transfer out of their natal groups, resulting in groups of unrelated males. However, in a few species, including humans, males remain in their groups and form life‐long associations with each other. This pattern of male philopatry is linked with cooperative male behaviors, including border patrols and predator defense. Because females in male‐philopatric species form weaker kin networks with each other than in female‐philopatric species, they are expected to evolve counter‐strategies to male sexual coercion that are relatively independent of support from other females. Studies of male‐philopatric nonhuman primates can provide insight into the evolutionary basis of prosocial behaviors, cooperation, and group action in humans and offer comparative models for understanding the sociality of other hominin species. This review will discuss patterns of dispersal and philopatry across primates, explore the resulting male and female behaviors, and argue that male‐philopatric nonhuman primate species offer insight into the social and sexual dynamics of hominins throughout evolution.
Potassium channel modulation in macrophages sensitizes dorsal root ganglion neurons after nerve injury
Authors: Konnova Elena A. , Deftu Alexandru‐Florian , Chu Sin Chung Paul , Kirschmann Guylène , Decosterd Isabelle , Suter Marc R.
Published: December 2023

Macrophages and satellite glial cells are found between injured and uninjured neurons in the lumbar dorsal root ganglia (DRG). We explored the mechanism of neuro‐immune and neuron–glia crosstalk leading to hyperexcitability of DRG neurons. After spared nerve injury (SNI), CX3CR1+ resident macrophages became activated, proliferated, and increased inward‐rectifying potassium channel Kir2.1 currents. Conditioned medium (CM) by macrophages, obtained from DRG of SNI mice, sensitized small DRG neurons from naïve mice. However, treatment with CM from GFAP+ glial cells did not affect neuronal excitability. When subjected to this macrophage‐derived CM, DRG neurons had increased spontaneous activity, current‐evoked responses and voltage‐gated NaV1.7 and NaV1.8 currents. Silencing Kir2.1 in macrophages after SNI prevented the induction of neuronal hyperexcitability from their CM. Blocking vesicular exocytosis or soluble tumor necrosis factor in CM or interfering with the downstream intracellular p38 pathway in neurons, also prevented neuronal hyperexcitability. Blocking protein trafficking in neurons reduced the effect of CM, suggesting that the hyperexcitable state resulted from changes in NaV channel trafficking. These results suggest that DRG macrophages, primed by peripheral nerve injury, contribute to neuron–glia crosstalk, NaV channel dysregulation and neuronal hyperexcitability implicated in the development of neuropathic pain.
Quantifying recharge sources to groundwater to an oasis area: Implications for strengthening water resource management under changing environmental conditions
Authors: Qi Shi , Shu Heping , Feng Qi , Zhu Meng , Liu Wei , He Jianhua
Published: December 2023

In order to implement sustainable management of water resources in the Desert Oasis, it is necessary to quantify the changes in the groundwater recharge process. Using the Cl−, stable hydrogen and oxygen isotope datasets extracted from 113 groundwater samples in the years of 2000 and 2020, and combining these with the MixSIAR model, changes in the groundwater recharge process and recharge source contributions in the Minqin Oasis (MO) in northwestern China area before and after ecological treatment were quantitatively analysed. Overall, confined groundwater was the greatest contributor to the recharge of shallow groundwater in the MO area in 2000. However, after 10 years of ecological rehabilitation, surface water has become the most important recharge source of shallow groundwater, with its contribution increasing by 10.6% between 2000 and 2020 ~ 2021. River water diversion projects have reversed falling groundwater levels in the MO area. Of these projects, that in the MO has seen groundwater levels rise at a rate of 0.09 m·year−1 from 2008 to 2019. This coincides with the increase in the contribution of surface water to groundwater recharge in 2020. In addition, insignificant changes were observed in the contributions made by lateral groundwater flow to groundwater recharge in the MO area in the years of 2000 and 2020 ~ 2021, indicating that groundwater in the upper and middle reaches of the MO area have contributed very little to the restoration of groundwater levels in the area's lower reaches. All these factors would appear to indicate that regional ecological management has had a lasting impact, and that the exploitation of groundwater in this desert oasis area in an inland river basin should be based upon rational planning and integrated, comprehensive management strategies.
Frameworked electrolytes: Ionic transport behavior and high mobility for solid state batteries
Authors: Sun Jianguo , Yuan Hao , Yang Jing , Wang Tuo , Gao Yulin , Zhao Qi , Liu Ximeng , Wang Haimei , Zhang Yong‐Wei , Wang John
Published: December 2023

All solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) are the holy grails of rechargeable batteries, where extensive searches are ongoing in the pursuit of ideal solid‐state electrolytes. Nevertheless, there is still a long way off to the satisfactorily high (enough) ionic conductivity, long‐term stability and especially being able to form compatible interfaces with the solid electrodes. Herein, we have explored ionic transport behavior and high mobility in the sub‐nano pore networks in the framework structures. Macroscopically, the frameworked electrolyte behaves as a solid, and however in the (sub)‐nano scales, the very limited number of solvent molecules in confinement makes them completely different from that in liquid electrolyte. Differentiated from a liquid‐electrolyte counterpart, the interactions between the mobile ions and surrounding molecules are subject to dramatic changes, leading to a high ionic conductivity at room temperature with a low activation energy. Li+ ions in the sub‐nano cages of the network structure are highly mobile and diffuse rather independently, where the rate‐limiting step of ions crossing cages is driven by the local concentration gradient and the electrostatic interactions between Li+ ions. This new class of frameworked electrolytes (FEs) with both high ionic conductivity and desirable interface with solid electrodes are demonstrated to work with Li‐ion batteries, where the ASSB with LiFePO4 shows a highly stable electrochemical performance of over 450 cycles at 2°C at room temperature, with an almost negligible capacity fade of 0.03‰ each cycle. In addition, the FE shows outstanding flexibility and anti‐flammability, which are among the key requirements of large‐scale applications.

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Skeletal Class III phenotype: Link between animal models and human genetics: A scoping review
Authors: Dehesa‐Santos Alexandra , Faria‐Teixeira Maria Cristina , Iglesias‐Linares Alejandro
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to identify evidence from animal studies examining genetic variants underlying maxillomandibular discrepancies resulting in a skeletal Class III (SCIII) malocclusion phenotype. Following the Manual for Evidence Synthesis of the JBI and the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews, a participant, concept, context question was formulated and systematic searches were executed in the PubMed, Scopus, WOS, Scielo, Open Gray, and Mednar databases. Of the 779 identified studies, 13 met the selection criteria and were included in the data extraction. The SCIII malocclusion phenotype was described as mandibular prognathism in the Danio rerio, Dicentrarchus labrax, and Equus africanus asinus models; and as maxillary deficiency in the Felis silvestris catus, Canis familiaris, Salmo trutta, and Mus musculus models. The identified genetic variants highlight the significance of BMP and TGF‐β signaling. Their regulatory pathways and genetic interactions link them to cellular bone regulation events, particularly ossification regulation of postnatal cranial synchondroses. In conclusion, twenty genetic variants associated with the skeletal SCIII malocclusion phenotype were identified in animal models. Their interactions and regulatory pathways corroborate the role of these variants in bone growth, differentiation events, and ossification regulation of postnatal cranial synchondroses.
Classes of intersection digraphs with good algorithmic properties
Authors: Jaffke Lars , Kwon O‐joung , Telle Jan Arne
Published: December 2023

While intersection graphs play a central role in the algorithmic analysis of hard problems on undirected graphs, the role of intersection digraphs in algorithms is much less understood. We present several contributions towards a better understanding of the algorithmic treatment of intersection digraphs. First, we introduce natural classes of intersection digraphs that generalize several classes studied in the literature. Second, we define the directed locally checkable vertex (DLCV) problems, which capture many well‐studied problems on digraphs, such as 
(Independent) Dominating Set, 
Kernel, and ‐Homomorphism. Third, we give a new width measure of digraphs, bi‐mim‐width, and show that the DLCV problems are polynomial‐time solvable when we are provided a decomposition of small bi‐mim‐width. Fourth, we show that several classes of intersection digraphs have bounded bi‐mim‐width, implying that we can solve all DLCV problems on these classes in polynomial time given an intersection representation of the input digraph. We identify reflexivity as a useful condition to obtain intersection digraph classes of bounded bi‐mim‐width, and therefore to obtain positive algorithmic results.
Confucian ideal personality traits (Junzi personality) and leadership effectiveness: Why leaders with traditional traits can achieve career success in modern China
Authors: Ge Xiaoyu , Li Xiaoming , Hou Yubo
Published: December 2023

The assumption of Confucian traditions being a handicap for East Asians when adapting to a modernizing world has been subject to challenge because of the rapid development of East Asian societies, which has prompted researchers to seek a culturally compatible perspective for understanding the foundations of East Asian modernization. This paper built a hypothetical model for indigenous theoretical resources. In The Analects, Confucius offered propositions on the links between leaders' Junzi personality (i.e., Confucian ideal personality traits) and leadership effectiveness, as well as the mediating roles of leadership styles. To test our hypotheses, we conducted two studies involving 513 supervisor–subordinate dyads in China. Study 1 indicated that Junzi personality had a significantly positive effect on leadership effectiveness and that such significance remained even after controlling for the Big Five personality traits. It also examined the incremental value and relative importance. Study 2 showed that ethical and transformational leadership mediated the effect of Junzi personality on leadership effectiveness measured two months later. In both datasets, leaders with higher Junzi personality scores assigned higher self‐ratings on performance, and their subordinates perceived higher leadership effectiveness, felt higher job satisfaction, and displayed lower turnover intentions.
Quantifying the association between Arctic Sea ice extent and Indian precipitation
Authors: Kulkarni Sujata , Agarwal Ankit
Published: December 2023

The unprecedented sea ice loss in the Arctic is due to its stronger surface warming than other parts across the globe, resulting in far‐flung effects on weather and climate at different spatial and temporal scales. We investigate how Arctic Sea ice and Indian summer monsoon rainfall (ISMR) are associated at seasonal scale and when preconditioned by Arctic Oscillation (AO) phases. This study also examines the potential predictability using correlation and composite analysis. The results indicate a significant decline in sea ice extent (SIE) at a rate of 0.055 Mkm2/year (p < 0.05). The strong association between SIE and precipitation in the Indian region is confirmed by correlation values ranging from −0.6 to 0.6 (p < 0.05). The spatial patterns of seasonal SIE and precipitation association remain consistent for 1979–2021. We found that the prevailing AO phases influence the association of sea ice with ISMR precipitation. The high correlation between SIE and ISMR anomalies suggests that Arctic Sea ice could be a reliable predictor for ISMR.
Antecedent configurations toward supply chain resilience: The joint impact of supply chain integration and big data analytics capability
Authors: Jiang Yisa , Feng Taiwen , Huang Yufei
Published: December 2023

Many antecedents identified as essential to supply chain resilience (SCR) are often studied independently, without considering their synergistic effects. Based on a case study and resource orchestration theory, this article focuses on configurations of different antecedents regarding supply chain integration and big data analytics capability to develop proactive and reactive SCR. Using survey data from 277 Chinese manufacturing firms, we consider three dimensions of supply chain integration, information integration, operational integration and relational integration, and three dimensions of big data analytics capability, technical skills, managerial skills and data driven‐decision culture, and conduct fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to explore antecedent configurations generating high proactive and reactive SCR. We find that multiple antecedent configurations can achieve high SCR and configurations for high proactive and reactive SCR are not identical, which may involve alternative effects across different antecedents. We further implement propensity score matching analysis and reveal that firms following these configurations for high SCR also have better economic and operational performance. Moreover, we check the robustness of findings by using secondary data and attributes analysis with machine learning. This article complements and extends existing SCR literature from the configurational perspective and provides practical insights for managers to build SCR.
Enrichment of a fruit‐based smoothie beverage with omega‐3 fatty acids from microencapsulated chia seed oil
Authors: Copado Claudia N. , Ixtaina Vanesa Y. , Tomás Mabel C.
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Omega‐3 fatty acids are known for their various health benefits. Chia is the richest vegetable source of omega‐3 fatty acids. However, its oil is highly susceptible to oxidative deterioration and should be protected for incorporation into food matrices. This work aimed to study the incorporation of different chia oil microcapsules in a powdered beverage, analyzing the effect on the physicochemical characteristics and stability during storage.

RESULTS

Different types of microcapsules were obtained: monolayer microcapsules using sodium caseinate and lactose as wall material, and multilayer microcapsules produced through electrostatic deposition using lecithins, chitosan, and chia mucilage as the first, second, and third layers, respectively. The results demonstrated an efficient enrichment of smoothies, with omega‐3 fatty acid values ranging from 24.09% to 42.73%, while the original food matrix powder lacked this component. These powder beverages exhibited low moisture content (≤ 2.91%) and low water activity (≤ 0.39). The aerated, packed density and compressibility assays indicated that adding microcapsules made the powders less dense and compressible. The color of the original powdered beverage was not modified. The dispersibility reflected an acceptable instantaneity, reaching the maximum obscuration after 30 s of stirring. The solubility of all the enriched products was higher than 70%, whereas the pH was ~6.8. The contact angle between the powder and liquid indicated an excellent ability to be reconstituted in water. The analysis of the glass transition temperature showed that the storage temperature (25 °C) was adequate. The peroxide value of all the products was low throughout the storage (≤ 1.63 meq peroxide kg−1 of oil at 90 days at 25 ± 2 °C), thus maintaining the quality of the microencapsulated chia oil.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that incorporating the monolayer and multilayer chia oil microcapsules that were studied could be a viable strategy for enriching smoothies with the omega‐3 fatty acids present in chia seed oil. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparative metabolomic analysis reveals nutritional properties and pigmentation mechanism of tea‐scented rosehips
Authors: Zhou Meichun , Sun Yanlin , Luo Le , Pan Huitang , Zhang Qixiang , Yu Chao
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

The fruits of the genus Rosa, commonly known as rosehips, have attracted significant attention owing to their rich content of various bioactive compounds. However, their utility is generally secondary to the ornamental appeal of their flowers. This study aimed to explore the quality differences among tea‐scented rosehips found in Yunnan, China, including those of Rosa odorata var. odorata (RO), Rosa odorata var. gigantea (RG), and Rosa yangii (RY). Morphological characteristics, chemical composition, and antioxidant activity of their fruits were evaluated.

RESULTS

The study revealed significant variability in composition and biological activities based on fruit color. RO exhibited the highest levels of polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, and vitamin C, with the strongest antioxidant activity (10.99 μmol Trolox·g−1), followed by RG (7.91 μmol Trolox·g−1) and RY (6.52 μmol Trolox·g−1). This supports RO's potential as a functional food source. Untargeted metabolomics identified and quantified 502 metabolites, with flavonoids (171) and phenolic acids (147) as the main metabolites. The differential metabolites among the fruits are primarily enriched for flavonoid biosynthesis and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathways. Insights into color formation supported the role of anthocyanins, flavones, and flavonols in fruit color variation.

CONCLUSION

Tea‐scented rosehips offer vibrant colors and high nutritional value with potent biological activities. Rosa odorata var. odorata stands out as a functional food source owing to its rich bioactive compounds. These findings lay the groundwork for utilizing rosehips in functional foods, health supplements, and food additives, emphasizing the practical and beneficial applications of Rosa spp. independent of their ornamental value. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Resonance, Velocity, Dispersion, and Attenuation of Ultrasound‐Induced Shear Wave Propagation in Blood Clot In Vitro Models
Authors: Bosio Guillaume , Destrempes François , Yazdani Ladan , Roy Cardinal Marie‐Hélène , Cloutier Guy
Published: December 2023

Objective

Improve the characterization of mechanical properties of blood clots. Parameters derived from shear wave (SW) velocity and SW amplitude spectra were determined for gel phantoms and in vitro blood clots.

Methods

Homogeneous phantoms and phantoms with gel or blood clot inclusions of different diameters and mechanical properties were analyzed. SW amplitude spectra were used to observe resonant peaks. Parameters derived from those resonant peaks were related to mimicked blood clot properties. Three regions of interest were tested to analyze where resonances occurred the most. For blood experiments, 20 samples from different pigs were analyzed over time during a 110‐minute coagulation period using the Young modulus, SW frequency dispersion, and SW attenuation.

Results

The mechanical resonance was manifested by an increase in the number of SW spectral peaks as the inclusion diameter was reduced (P < .001). In blood clot inclusions, the Young modulus increased over time during coagulation (P < .001). Descriptive spectral parameters (frequency peak, bandwidth, and distance between resonant peaks) were linearly correlated with clot elasticity values (P < .001) with R2 = .77 for the frequency peak, .60 for the bandwidth, and .48 for the distance between peaks. The SW dispersion and SW attenuation reflecting the viscous behavior of blood clots decreased over time (P < .001), mainly in the early stage of coagulation (first minutes).

Conclusion

The confined soft inclusion configuration favored SW mechanical resonances potentially challenging the computation of spectral‐based parameters, such as the SW attenuation. The impact of resonances can be reduced by properly selecting the region of interest for data analysis.
A Heat‐Resistant Polymer Based on the Reversible Change in Polymer Skeleton Structure for Self‐Anticounterfeiting
Authors: Luo Hong , Li Wa , Yuan Rui , Huang Ying , Chen Junze , Yang Li , Chang Guanjun
Published: December 2023

Heat‐resistant polymer materials have been widely used in many fields, but their anticounterfeit is still a significant challenge. This work has successfully constructed a heat‐resistant polymer material that can achieve self‐anticounterfeit. In response to changes in the external environment, the color of polymer changes from yellow‐green to red reversibly, which is due to the fact that polymer material's backbone undergoes isomerization. Therefore, this high‐performance polymer material can not only be used in a high‐temperature environment for a long time but also achieve its anticounterfeit and be used in advanced security applications.
Compatibility and distribution strategies of asymmetric competing digital platforms
Authors: Zhang Shuhua , Cai Wenyu , Wang Xinyu , Ye Xiaofen
Published: December 2023

We develop a game theoretic model to study the compatibility and distribution decisions of two asymmetric competing platform owners. It is found that there are two equilibrium distribution structures for the two platform firms. Then a Pareto optimality distribution structure for the two firms is discovered. We proceed to discuss the platform's compatibility decision under the equilibrium distribution structures, and find that the equilibrium compatibility decisions depend on the average royalty. We further examine the impact of firm's distribution decisions over their compatibility decisions. Finally, we discuss how retailers will benefit from platform owner's compatibility decisions.
Skilful sub‐seasonal forecasts of aggregated temperature over Europe
Authors: Baker Laura , Charlton‐Perez Andrew , Mattu Kanzis L.
Published: December 2023

Subseasonal‐to‐seasonal (S2S) forecasts span the prediction range of weeks to 2–3 months ahead, bridging the gap between medium‐range and seasonal weather forecasts. There has been growing interest in S2S forecasts in recent years, largely because of the many potential uses of forecasts spanning these timescales. However, the skill of S2S forecasts beyond the first 2 weeks or so is poor, potentially limiting the usability of these forecasts. We show in this study that when considering accumulated temperatures, there is in fact good forecasting skill over Europe for accumulation periods up to 30 days ahead. Using a set of S2S hindcasts, we show using both a deterministic and a probabilistic measure of skill that the accumulated 2‐metre temperature forecasts out to 30 days are skilful over most of Europe. In summer, South West Europe has highest skill, while in winter North East Europe has highest skill. As an example application of such forecasts, we also evaluate the skill for summer cooling degree‐days (CDD) and winter heating degree‐days (HDD). For 30‐day winter HDD, there is good skill in all four European regions; for 30‐day summer CDD, the skill is limited in North West Europe, but still good in other regions.
Consistent treatment of shear failure in embedded discrete fracture models using XFVM
Authors: Conti Giulia , Deb Rajdeep , Matthäi Stephan K. , Jenny Patrick
Published: December 2023

Understanding deformations and fluid flow in fractured rocks is of central importance for many subsurface flow applications. Thus, numerical frameworks are needed that capture the coupled mechanical and hydraulic behaviour, including scenarios with complex fracture networks. This paper employs the extended finite volume method to represent fracture manifolds in a poroelastic matrix domain and to compute shear and tensile displacements of fracture segments. However, using embedded fractures with non‐conforming grids can lead to severe convergence issues while computing shear slip and tensile opening of intersecting and parallel fractures, particularly if they have similar slopes. Our proposed solution of this problem is to slightly deform the fracture geometry by merging critical segments. We discuss and show examples of which attributes the merged segment has to adopt to ensure the correct slip behaviour at an intersection. Thereby it is crucial that the flow topology remains unaltered. Analysing failures of kinked fractures and fracture intersections show the flexibility of the devised algorithm. Moreover, it is demonstrated that deformation and opening patterns of a natural network with more than 200 fractures are qualitatively predicted very well. This method is a simple solution to treat multiple fracture segments in a grid cell, hence it can be used for any model embedding fractures in non‐conforming grids.
Analytical prediction for longitudinal deformation of shield tunnel subjected to ground surface surcharge considering the stiffness reduction
Authors: Cao Shian , Liang Rongzhu , Kang Cheng , Wu Wenbing , Ke Zhaibang , Guo Yang
Published: December 2023

This paper presents an improved longitudinal beam‐spring model on the Vlasov foundation for estimating the longitudinal deformation of the shield tunnel when subjected to the ground surface surcharge. This model incorporates an improved subgrade modulus and treats each segmental ring as a Timoshenko short beam, with each circumferential joint modeled by two mechanical springs. It can accurately reflect the discontinuous deformation, and capture the dislocation and opening deformation of shield tunnels. Two‐stage analysis methodology is adopted to consider soil and tunnel interaction. The feasibility of this model is verified by comparing it with two well‐documented field monitoring cases. The computed results are also compared with those based on other analytical models. The results show that the Timoshenko continuous beam overestimates the dislocation deformation, while underestimates the opening deformation. In addition, the settlement curve exhibits neither smooth nor differentiable features. Finally, this paper also conducted some parameter analysis to examine the impact on tunnel deformation, encompassing dimensions of ground surface surcharge, the dual‐area loading, and the joint reinforcement. This approach provides valuable insights into how the deformation characteristics of shield tunnels are influenced by ground surface surcharge.
Aminated carbon nanotube enhanced composite T‐joints mediating CFRP load‐bearing capacity improvement
Authors: Bai Yujiao , Yan Meiling , Xu Zhonghai , Yang Fan , Li Yanping , Liu Wenbo , Wang Rongguo , He Xiaodong
Published: December 2023

Adhesive bond is the weakest part of carbon fiber reinforced composites (CFRP) force‐bearing structure. Therefore, enhancing the strength of the adhesive bond is key to improve force‐bearing structure. In this study, adhesive strength of the common CFRP T‐joint was enhanced by aminated carbon nanotubes (CNT). To begin with, shear tensile strength of single‐lap‐joint laminated composites with various CNT content was verified, which peaked at 0.5 wt%. It was indicated that the adhesive bond of deltoid is the weakest area in a T‐joint. CNT was applied in the deltoid of composite T‐joint and pull‐off test was conducted to investigate the progress from the initiation and evolution of damage as well as the final failure. The aminated CNT employed in this study formed an effective load transmission through physical engagement and chemical bonding; the addition of 0.5 wt% CNT effectively enhanced tensile strength and toughness, improving mechanical property of the adhesive bond. This study provides a solution to enhance the adhesive area of CFRP load‐bearing structure with CNT, consequently improve the load‐bearing strength of composite.

Highlights

Aminated CNT is substantially improve the adhesive strength of CFRP T‐joint.

Tensile strength and toughness of T‐joint deltoid was optimized by 0.5 wt% CNT.

Effective load transmission through physical engagement and chemical bonding.
Scarcity makes people short‐sighted? Evidence from intertemporal decision‐making
Authors: Zeng Chang , Wu Qi , Bi Cuihua , Qi Huaiyuan
Published: December 2023

With the acceleration of the pace of society, the problem of scarcity of time resources is becoming more prominent, which may lead to short‐sighted behavior. This study aimed to examine the impact of time scarcity on intertemporal choice and its underlying mechanisms through three experiments. Study 1 aimed to investigate the causal relationship between time scarcity and intertemporal choice and the mediating role of anxiety between time scarcity and intertemporal choice. The results showed that participants with a stronger perception of time scarcity were more likely to choose smaller and sooner gains, and that the mediating role of anxiety was significant. In Study 2, the control of time was introduced to explore whether the sense of control could alleviate the negative emotion caused by time scarcity. The results showed that individuals with high levels of control had significantly less anxiety under higher time‐scarcity conditions than those with low levels of control. In Study 3, we manipulated time scarcity and found that the sense of control moderated the mediating effect of anxiety in time scarcity and intertemporal choice. Overall, these findings suggest that the sense of control over time is associated with less anxiety from time scarcity, which in turn fosters preferences for delayed gains.
Interpersonal distance perception during the normalization of an pandemic situation: Effects of mask‐wearing and vaccination
Authors: Yu Xiaoqing , Chen Chun‐Hsien , Xia Ziqing , Wang Congyi , Xiong Wei
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of anti‐pandemic measures, including wearing a face mask and receiving vaccinations, on interpersonal distance (IPD) during the normalization stage of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Virtual reality (VR) technology was used to simulate the experimental environment and a confederate in different conditions. Thirty‐one participants were asked to approach the virtual confederate, who could exhibit three vaccination states and two mask‐wearing conditions, actively and passively in both indoor and outdoor environments. ANOVA results showed that the participants kept a smaller IPD from the confederate wearing a face mask (IPD = 125.6 cm) than from the one without a face mask (IPD = 154.2 cm). The effects of vaccination states were significant, with the largest distance for an unvaccinated confederate (IPD = 182.3 cm) and the smallest distance for the confederate who had received a booster vaccine (IPD = 111.5 cm). Significant effects of environment were also found, with the participants maintaining a larger IPD in an outdoor environment (IPD = 143.4 cm) than in an indoor room (IPD = 136.4 cm). Additionally, the IPD collected when the participants were passively approached (IPD = 149.6 cm) was significantly larger than that obtained when they actively approached the confederate (IPD = 130.3 cm). Moreover, when the participants faced a confederate who had received a booster vaccine and wore a mask, the IPD was not significantly different from that collected before the COVID‐19 pandemic in both the active and passive patterns. These findings help us to better understand the nature of IPD and human behaviors during the normalization stage of the pandemic and provide scientific suggestions for policymakers to develop pandemic‐prevention measures.