bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the effects of whey protein components on the interaction and stability of cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside
Authors: Zhang Huimin , Ju Mengmeng , Hamid Nazimah , Ma Qianli , Shang Dansen , Jia Chengli , Xiao Yuhang , Jiang Shijing , Qiu Haoqin , Luan Wenli , Sun Aidong
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Anthocyanins are susceptible to degradation due to external factors. Despite the potential for improved anthocyanin stability with whey protein isolate (WPI), the specific effects of individual components within WPI on the stability of anthocyanins have yet to be studied extensively. This study investigated the interaction of WPI, β‐lactoglobulin (β‐Lg), bovine serum albumin (BSA), and lactoferrin (LF) with cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside (C3G), and also considered their effects on stability.

RESULTS

Fluorescence analysis revealed static quenching effects between C3G and WPI, β‐Lg, BSA, and LF. The binding constants were 1.923 × 103 L · mol⁻¹ for WPI, 24.55 × 103 L · mol⁻¹ for β‐Lg, 57.25 × 103 L · mol⁻¹ for BSA, and 1.280 × 103 L · mol⁻¹ for LF. Hydrogen bonds, van der Waals forces, and electrostatic attraction were the predominant forces in the interactions between C3G and WPI and between C3G and BSA. Hydrophobic interaction was the main binding force in the interaction between C3G and β‐Lg and between C3G and LF. The binding of C3G with WPI, β‐Lg, BSA, and LF was driven by different thermodynamic parameters. Enthalpy changes (∆H) were −38.76 kJ · mol⁻¹ for WPI, −17.59 kJ · mol⁻¹ for β‐Lg, −16.09 kJ · mol⁻¹ for BSA, and 39.50 kJ · mol⁻¹ for LF. Entropy changes (∆S) were −67.21 J · mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ for WPI, 3.72 J · mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ for β‐Lg, 37.09 J · mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ for BSA, and 192.04 J · mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ for LF. The addition of C3G influenced the secondary structure of the proteins. The decrease in the α‐helix content suggested a disruption and loosening of the hydrogen bond network structure. The presence of proteins enhanced the light stability and thermal stability (stability in the presence of light and heat) of C3G. In vitro simulated digestion experiments demonstrated that the addition of proteins led to a delayed degradation of C3G and to improved antioxidant capacity.

CONCLUSION

The presence of WPI and its components enhanced the thermal stability, light stability, and oxidation stability of C3G. Preheated proteins exhibited a more pronounced effect than unheated proteins. These findings highlight the potential of preheating protein at appropriate temperatures to preserve C3G stability and bioactivity during food processing. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Eutrophication and urbanization enhance methane emissions from coastal lagoons
Authors: Bonaglia Stefano , Cheung Henry L. S. , Politi Tobia , Vybernaite‐Lubiene Irma , McKenzie Tristan , Santos Isaac R. , Zilius Mindaugas
Published: August 2024

Coastal lagoons are important nutrient filters and carbon sinks but may release large amounts of methane (CH4) to the atmosphere. Here, we hypothesize that eutrophication and population density will turn coastal lagoons into stronger methane emitters. We report benthic fluxes from 187 sediment cores incubated from three of the largest European lagoons suffering persistent eutrophication. Methane fluxes were mainly driven by sediment porosity, organic matter, and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) fluxes. Methane was always supersaturated (250–49,000%) in lagoon waters leading to large, variable emissions of 0.04–26 mg CH4 m−2 d−1. Combining our new dataset with earlier estimates revealed a global coastal lagoon emission of 7.9 (1.4–34.7) Tg CH4 yr−1 with median values of 5.4 mg CH4 m−2 d−1. Lagoons with very highly populated catchments released much more methane (223 mg CH4 m−2 d−1). Overall, projected increases in eutrophication, organic loading and population densities will enhance methane fluxes from lagoons worldwide.
Consumer decision‐making in cosmetic surgery: An interdisciplinary review identifying key challenges and implications for marketing theory
Authors: Krywuczky Fabienne , Kleijnen Mirella
Published: August 2024

Consumer interest in cosmetic surgery has grown tremendously in recent years. However, despite the long‐lasting implications of cosmetic surgery decisions on consumer well‐being, existing insights on these decisions remain limited and scattered across various fields. Through an interdisciplinary bibliometric review, we identify that previous research has primarily focused on five aspects shaping consumers' decisions in cosmetic surgery: (1) differing perspectives, (2) social drivers, (3) individual drivers, (4) online media content, and (5) influences relevant to labiaplasty. These investigations stem from the fields of psychology, sociology, communication, and healthcare and aim to understand especially consumer intentions to undergo surgery at the pre‐consumption stage. In this research, we delineate how marketing researchers can advance insights along the entire consumer surgery journey (i.e., pre‐consumption, consumption, and post‐consumption stage) through a better understanding of (i) the phenomenon and its different treatments, (ii) the role of identity, (iii) stakeholder interactions, and (iv) how social media and technology shape cosmetic surgery decisions. Finally, we highlight how studying these topics can contribute to marketing theory through novel insights on the self and identity, the body's meaning in consumption, and self‐enhancement practices.
Revealing the double‐edged sword: Introducing the Technology and Consumer Well‐being Paradox Model
Authors: McLean Graeme , Krey Nina , Barhorst Jennifer Brannon
Published: August 2024

While discourse on technology and consumer well‐being has been at the forefront of academics' and practitioners' agendas, the theoretical understanding of the complex interplay between technology and consumer well‐being has remained tenuous. To address this gap in our understanding of technology's influence on consumer well‐being, this research provides a comprehensive literature review of recent articles published in Psychology & Marketing. Findings indicate a double‐edged sword where technology has the propensity to not only foster a state of negative well‐being but can also enhance consumers' well‐being. Additionally, a technology well‐being paradox is uncovered whereby technology is used to manage the negative effects of technology use. Accordingly, we introduce the Technology and Consumer Well‐being Paradox Model that incorporates technology's propensity to enhance, diminish, and manage eudaimonic and hedonic consumer well‐being. Furthermore, the influence of the purpose of technology use and changes to consumer well‐being over time with technology use are also considered. Finally, we provide pertinent avenues for future research to further understanding on the technology and consumer well‐being paradox.
Handmaking a better future: A scoping review on the role of handmade activities in advancing individual and societal well‐being
Authors: Birau Mia M.
Published: August 2024

Building something with your hands, whether a piece of furniture, a scarf, or a vase, triggers a unique mental process enhancing a feeling of well‐being. Various research studies explore the potential effects of diverse types of activities involving hand labor. This scoping review analyzes 181 such studies spanning multiple disciplines (psychology, marketing, technology, design, health), and explores the richness of these activities and their distinct effects on individual and societal well‐being. Through this comprehensive analysis, the review enhances the understanding of the effects of handmade activities on consumer well‐being and advances marketing knowledge within the broader context of well‐being. Additionally, it probes into the commonalities among different academic theories, identifying gaps in existing marketing and psychology research and proposing paths for future exploration.
The recent advance and prospect of poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase inhibitors for the treatment of cancer
Authors: Bai Yi‐Ru , Yang Wei‐Guang , Jia Rui , Sun Ju‐Shan , Shen Dan‐Dan , Liu Hong‐Min , Yuan Shuo
Published: August 2024

Chemotherapies are commonly used in cancer therapy, their applications are limited to low specificity, severe adverse reactions, and long‐term medication‐induced drug resistance. Poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors are a novel class of antitumor drugs developed to solve these intractable problems based on the mechanism of DNA damage repair, which have been widely applied in the treatment of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and other cancers through inducing synthetic lethal effect and trapping PARP‐DNA complex in BRCA gene mutated cancer cells. In recent years, PARP inhibitors have been widely used in combination with various first‐line chemotherapy drugs, targeted drugs and immune checkpoint inhibitors to expand the scope of clinical application. However, the intricate mechanisms underlying the drug resistance to PARP inhibitors, including the restoration of homologous recombination, stabilization of DNA replication forks, overexpression of drug efflux protein, and epigenetic modifications pose great challenges and desirability in the development of novel PARP inhibitors. In this review, we will focus on the mechanism, structure–activity relationship, and multidrug resistance associated with the representative PARP inhibitors. Furthermore, we aim to provide insights into the development prospects and emerging trends to offer guidance for the clinical application and inspiration for the development of novel PARP inhibitors and degraders.
Unveiling gut microbiota's role: Bidirectional regulation of drug transport for improved safety
Authors: Wang Jinyi , Zhou Tingting
Published: August 2024

Drug safety is a paramount concern in the field of drug development, with researchers increasingly focusing on the bidirectional regulation of gut microbiota in this context. The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining drug safety. It can influence drug transport processes in the body through various mechanisms, thereby modulating their efficacy and toxicity. The main mechanisms include: (1) The gut microbiota directly interacts with drugs, altering their chemical structure to reduce toxicity and enhance efficacy, thereby impacting drug transport mechanisms, drugs can also change the structure and abundance of gut bacteria; (2) bidirectional regulation of intestinal barrier permeability by gut microbiota, promoting the absorption of nontoxic drugs and inhibiting the absorption of toxic components; (3) bidirectional regulation of the expression and activity of transport proteins by gut microbiota, selectively promoting the absorption of effective components or inhibiting the absorption of toxic components. This bidirectional regulatory role enables the gut microbiota to play a key role in maintaining drug balance in the body and reducing adverse reactions. Understanding these regulatory mechanisms sheds light on novel approaches to minimize toxic side effects, enhance drug efficacy, and ultimately improve drug safety. This review systematically examines the bidirectional regulation of gut microbiota in drug transportation from the aforementioned aspects, emphasizing their significance in ensuring drug safety. Furthermore, it offers a prospective outlook from the standpoint of enhancing therapeutic efficacy and reducing drug toxicity, underscoring the importance of further exploration in this research domain. It aims to provide more effective strategies for drug development and treatment.
How Do We Better Serve Excluded Populations When Delivering Digital Health Technology? Inclusion Evaluation of a Digital Musculoskeletal Self‐Management Solution
Authors: Wanless Ben , Hassan Nawal , McClellan Carey , Sothinathan Christina , Abelleyra Lastoria Diego Agustín , Herweijer Thomas , Thorpe Jayne , Noblet Tim , Berry Alice
Published: August 2024

Background

Digital self‐management platforms have been proposed as a solution to better support people manage their musculoskeletal (MSK) condition. However, research studies often explicitly exclude people who can't access internet connected devices. An important consideration is that digital exclusion (for people without access to an internet connected device) from these new digital options will worsen already existing inequality and inequity in healthcare.

Aim

To evaluate the acceptability and potential causes of digital exclusion of the South West London (SWL) MSK self‐management app.

Objectives

(1) Explore why some patients are not using the app and any barriers they have. Explore why some clinicians are not prescribing the app. (2) Make recommendations, based on these findings, to improve digital inclusion.

Methods/Design

An explanatory sequential mixed method service evaluation that consisted of initial questionnaires to identify suitable collaborators, followed by structured interviews of patients and clinicians.

Results

Following a comprehensive data analysis, 10 sub‐themes were grouped into four main themes: (1) Beliefs: Importance of understanding the role of digital; face to face consultation is still valued and needed. (2) Barriers: Lack of digital literacy; lack of physical examination/contact with a clinician. (3) Enablers: Immediate access to advice and information; perceived better control over health; ease of use; no appointment needed. (4) Solutions: Support and training; greater awareness.

Conclusions

As digital health technology develops, strategies must change, requiring deliberate work and investments to improve inclusion. Our findings highlight how digital technology design and delivery can be adapted to address the causes of digital exclusion.
Effect of Core Exercises on Clinical and Functional Outcomes After Total Knee Arthroplasty in Individuals With Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shetty Saidan , Maiya G. Arun , KG Mohandas Rao , Vijayan Sandeep , George Bincy M.
Published: August 2024

Background

Core muscles constitute the centre of the kinetic chain, and core exercises have been effective in improving outcomes in many postsurgical lower extremity musculoskeletal conditions. However, the literature on the implementation of core exercises after TKA has not been summarised.

Objective

The objective was to review the evidence on the effect of core exercises on clinical and functional outcomes after TKA in individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and ProQuest databases were explored with appropriate keywords for studies published on the effect of core exercises on TKA from inception to 1 April 2024. Two authors independently screened the titles and abstracts and full‐texts, and a third author solved the discrepancies. Risk of bias assessment was done with the Joanna Briggs Critical Appraisal tool. The final articles were systematically summarised.

Results

A total of 1485 records were retrieved. Sixty‐four articles were included for screening full‐texts, and four articles were ultimately included. Core exercises were administered for three to 6 weeks. The administration of core exercises along with the standard knee rehabilitation programme significantly improved balance, mobility, knee function, transverse abdominis muscle thickness, transversus abdominis contraction, and quality of life after TKA (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Core exercises can be administered as an adjunct to standard rehabilitation programs to improve clinical and functional outcomes after TKA. However, there is a dearth of literature in this domain, and more studies are warranted.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD42024542992
Mechanical study on hybrid joining type carbon fiber reinforced composite
Authors: Kaplan Nil , Gulluoglu Arif Nihat , Turkmen Halit Suleyman
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive study of the fabrication and joining mechanisms of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites. The CFRP composites were fabricated by hand lay‐up and vacuum bagging methods. In order to improve the efficiency of the CFRP‐CFRP and CFRP‐AL 7075‐T651 joints, laminates with varying overlap lengths of 25 and 60 mm single lap joints were prepared in both multi‐riveted and hybrid bonded/riveted joint configurations. Due to the epoxy compatibility of CFRP‐CFRP joints, riveted/bonded hybrid joints (HJs) showed superior improvements compared to riveted joints for both material combinations at 25 and 60 mm overlap lengths. Non‐epoxy compatible surfaces of CFRP‐AL 7075‐T651 specimens performed similarly to riveted joints in hybrid configurations. The use of epoxy compatible surfaces was found to increase the joint strength in CFRP‐CFRP single lap hybrid joints in proportion to the increase in overlap length. Ansys non‐linear analysis and experimental results were complementary. The new improvements in joint efficiency of CFRP composites create a wide range of structural applications considering the increasing lifetime of the components and joints.

Highlights

Riveting of composites have negative impact on joint strentgh.

Hybrid joints using a combination of rivets and adhesives can increase the load bearing capacity.

Tensile performance strategy of joint in composites can be improved by diversification of joint combinations.
Exploring the filler morphology and temperature‐dependent compressive response of glass‐filled epoxy composites: Insights from experiments and viscoplastic simulations
Authors: Kumar Siddharth , Sahay Saurav Ranjan , Singh Sarthak S. , Rozycki Patrick
Published: August 2024

This study aims to improve the compressive strength of epoxy at operating temperatures below the glass transition temperature by introducing micron‐sized spherical and milled glass fillers at varying volume fractions. Test specimens were prepared by mixing spherical and milled fillers up to 20% and 15% volume fractions. The room temperature (27°C) results showed that 15% and 10% volume fractions of spherical and milled filler‐reinforced epoxy composites, respectively, exhibited the highest stress‐bearing ability among their respective filler volume fractions and hence were further tested at 45°C and 60°C. 15% spherical and 10% milled fillers enhanced epoxy's yield strength from 103 MPa to 111 MPa and 123 MPa at 27°C and from 67 MPa to 73 MPa and 80 MPa at 60°C. Scanning electron microscopic imaging revealed matrix cracking and filler breakage as the primary failure mechanisms at ambient temperature, while matrix softening at 60°C caused filler‐matrix debonding to dominate. The Three‐Network viscoplastic model was used as matrix property in ABAQUS to simulate the representative volume elements reinforced with milled and spherical fillers at mentioned temperatures. The modulus, yield, and strain softening stresses for both filler‐reinforced epoxy composites are well predicted by the simulations. Simulations revealed that milled fibers endure higher compressive stress than spherical particles at the given temperatures, although matrix stress remains almost the same.

Highlights

Milled fiber epoxy composites exhibit higher yield strength than spherical ones.

10% milled fiber endures the highest strength among all the fillers used.

Matrix and filler breakages are witnessed at ambient temperature.

Filler‐matrix debonding dominates at elevated temperature.

Three‐Network model captures well the milled and spherical epoxy composite's experimental data.
Experimental Induction of Complex Gastroschisis in the Fetal Lamb: Systematic Review
Authors: Arai Tomohiro , Tianthong Wasinee , Russo Francesca Maria , Basurto David , Joyeux Luc , De Coppi Paolo , Deprest Jan
Published: August 2024

We systematically reviewed experiments in the fetal lamb model of gastroschisis using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus, seeking for standardized surgical techniques to obtain complex gastroschisis. Eligible were studies where an abdominal wall defect was surgically induced and gross anatomical findings at birth were available. The primary outcome was complex gastroschisis, defined by the presence of bowel stenosis, atresia, volvulus, perforation, and/or necrosis. Secondary outcomes were fetal death and additional readouts reported. Of ten eligible studies, six included lambs that had no additional prenatal manipulations and were assessed at term (35 lambs). Gastroschisis was induced at day 70–80 (term = 140–145), typically (n = 4/6 studies) in the left lower abdomen with defect size ranging from 0.5 to 4.0 cm. Only one study, in which a 1.5 cm diameter silicone ring was utilized, resulted in complex gastroschisis in 100% of term survivors. Fetal loss was more frequent in studies where a silicone ring and/or a right‐sided defect were used. No changes unique to complex gastroschisis were identified in additional readouts, including bowel histology. When gastroschisis becomes “complex” following induction is uncertain. This knowledge is essential in studying potential prenatal interventions that may change the natural course.
Optimization of FFF process parameters to improve the tensile strength and impact energy of polylactic acid/carbon nanotube composite
Authors: Hardani Hatam , Afshari Mahmoud , Allahyari Fatemeh , Samadi Mohammad Reza , Afshari Hossein , Medina Edison Marcelo Melendres
Published: August 2024

In this study, the process parameters of fused filament fabrication are optimized to improve the tensile strength and impact energy of polylactic acid/carbon nanotube (PLA/CNT) composite. Hence, the utility function (UF) technique and response surface method (RSM) are applied to explore the optimal levels of the effective parameters of print speed, nozzle temperature, and CNT content. The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and SEM analyses are employed to examine the thermal properties of the printed samples. The results of DSC and TGA analyses exhibited that the incorporation of CNT into PLA enhanced the thermal strength of PLA/CNT composite. The addition of CNTs in the composite improved the tensile strength by 37%, while the addition of CNTs up to 4 wt% improved the impact energy by 29%. Moreover, an increment of the print speed to 60 mm/s reduced the impact energy (12%) and tensile strength (22%), while an increment of the nozzle temperature to 200°C enhanced the impact energy (9%) and tensile strength (12%). The optimization results demonstrated that the strength and impact energy of PLA/CNT composite optimized at CNT content of 2.8 wt%, print speed of 20 mm/s, and nozzle temperature of 209°C. Additionally, the impact energy and tensile strength of the PLA/CNT composite enhanced up to 62.5 MPa and 2.14 J at the optimum conditions.

Highlights

Application of FFF process for producing the PLA/CNT composite

Investigating the impact of FFF parameters on the mechanical properties

Estimating the optimal conditions of the FFF process
Optimization of rubber mixture production using a validated technological sequence of methods
Authors: Uruk Zeynep , Kiraz Alper , Karaağaç Bağdagül
Published: August 2024

In this study, a combination of Plackett–Burman and Box–Behnken designs is applied to discover the relationships between the components of rubber compounds and technical specifications. Optimization of rubber compound formulation is realized by support vector regression integrated genetic algorithm to minimize compound cost. Twelve components potentially affecting the technical specifications of rubber compound, which are natural rubber, carbon black, white filler, stearic acid, zinc oxide, antiozonant, antioxidant, process oil, curing retarder, curing agent, and accelerator, are screened through Plackett–Burman design to decide the significant variables. Afterwards, four significant parameters, including carbon black, process oil, curing agent, and accelerator are analyzed using Box–Behnken design to minimize the number of experiments while obtaining the correlation between formulation and specifications. Lastly, a support vector regression integrated genetic algorithm is implemented to predict optimum compound formulation at minimum cost.

Highlights

Optimization of rubber compound to reduce the mixture and curing cost.

Combination of Plackett–Burman and Box–Behnken designs.

Integration of support vector regression to genetic algorithm.

Correlations between the amounts of components and technical specifications.
Anionic polyaddition of 1,1‐diphenylethylene derivatives for novel hydrocarbon polymers
Authors: Matsumoto Honoka , Tanioka Daisuke , Adachi Kaoru
Published: August 2024

The anionic polyaddition of methyl‐substituted 1,1‐diphenylethylene derivatives, catalyzed by lithium diisopropylamide, was examined. Polymerization of the monomer was conducted at 50°C in THF with the addition of diisopropylamine. NMR and MALDI‐TOF‐MS analyses of the obtained polymer indicate that polymerization proceeded via a polyaddition reaction, in other words, repetition of the lithium amide‐induced metalation reaction of the monomer at the methyl group and the subsequent nucleophilic addition reaction of the corresponding benzyllithium with the vinyl group in the monomer. On the other hand, the unsubstituted diphenylethylene monomer could not be polymerized by the same reaction condition. Consequently, the resulting polymer was indeed obtained by an anionic polyaddition mechanism. In conclusion, a novel hydrocarbon polymer containing a phenyl group in the main chain of the repeating unit was successfully obtained from a methyl‐substituted 1,1‐diphenylethylene monomer.
Long‐chain fatty acids block allergic reaction against lipid transfer protein Sola l 7 from tomato seeds
Authors: Parrón‐Ballesteros Jorge , Martín‐Pedraza Laura , Gordo Rubén G. , Mayorga Cristobalina , Pastor‐Vargas Carlos , Titaux‐Delgado Gustavo A. , Villalba Mayte , Batanero Eva , Pantoja‐Uceda David , Turnay Javier
Published: August 2024

Due to the benefits of tomato as an antioxidant and vitamin source, allergy to this vegetable food is a clinically concerning problem. Sola l 7, a class I lipid transfer protein found in tomato seeds, has been identified as an allergen linked to severe anaphylaxis. However, the role of lipid binding in Sola l 7‐induced allergy remains unclear. Here, the three‐dimensional structure of recombinant Sola l 7 (rSola l 7) has been elucidated using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). Its interaction with free fatty acids has been deeply studied; fluorescence emission spectroscopy revealed that different long‐chain fatty acids interact with the protein, affecting the only tyrosine residue present in Sola l 7. On the contrary, no changes in the overall secondary structure were observed after the analysis of the circular dichroism spectra in the presence of fatty acids. Unsaturated oleic and linoleic fatty acids presented higher affinity and promoted more significant changes than saturated or short‐chain fatty acids. 1H‐15N HSQC NMR spectra allowed to determine the regions of the protein that were modified when rSola l 7 interacts with the fatty acids, suggesting epitope modification after the interaction. For corroboration, IgG and IgE binding to rSola l 7 were assessed in the presence of free fatty acids, revealing that both IgE and IgG binding were significantly lower than in their absence, suggesting a potential protective role of unsaturated fatty acids in tomato allergy.
Quasinormal Frequencies of Fields with Various Spin in the Quantum Oppenheimer–Snyder Model of Black Holes
Authors: Skvortsova Milena
Published: August 2024

A recent development involves an intriguing model of a quantum‐corrected black hole, established through the application of the quantum Oppenheimer–Snyder model within loop quantum cosmology [Lewandowski et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. (2023) 130, 101501]. Employing both time‐domain integration and the Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin (WKB) approach, the quasinormal frequencies for scalar, electromagnetic, and neutrino perturbations in these quantum‐corrected black holes are computed. This analysis reveals that while the real oscillation frequencies undergo only minor adjustments due to the quantum parameter, the damping rate experiences a significant decrease as a result of its influence. The author also deduced the analytic formula for quasinormal frequencies in the eikonal limit and showed that the correspondence between the null geodesics and eikonal quasinormal modes holds in this case.
Beyond the regional average: Drivers of geographical rainfall variability during East Africa's short rains
Authors: Kolstad Erik W. , Parker Douglas J. , MacLeod David A. , Wainwright Caroline M. , Hirons Linda C.
Published: August 2024

The East African “short rains” from October–December (OND) are crucial for the region's cultural and agricultural landscape. Traditional climate studies have often treated these rains as a single mode, representing the average rainfall across the region. This approach, however, fails to capture the complex geographical variations in seasonal rainfall. In our study, we analyse 4200 reforecasts from a seasonal prediction system spanning 1981–2022, identifying distinct clusters that represent different geographical patterns of the short rains. We explore the influence of tropical sea‐surface temperature patterns, upper‐level tropospheric flow, and low‐level moisture fluxes on these clusters. A key revelation of our research is the limited predictability of certain geographical rainfall structures based on large‐scale climatic drivers. This finding highlights a gap in current forecasting methodologies, emphasising the necessity for further research to understand and predict these intricate patterns. Our study illuminates the complexities of regional rainfall variability in East Africa, underlining the importance of continued investigation to improve climate resilience strategies in the region.
Detection‐based resilient control for cyber‐physical systems against two‐channel false data injection attacks
Authors: Li Jinyan , Li Xiaomeng , Ren Hongru , Li Hongyi
Published: August 2024

This paper focuses on a detection‐based resilient control issue for cyber‐physical systems (CPSs) subject to false data injection (FDI) attacks, where FDI attacks occur in the communication channels from the sensor‐to‐controller and controller‐to‐actuator. Firstly, to reduce the adverse impacts of FDI attacks on estimation performance, an unbiased estimator is constructed by tackling the equality‐constrained optimization problem. Then, an effective attack detection mechanism is devised by introducing a pseudo‐innovation sequence to formulate the detection function, which can successfully detect two‐channel FDI attacks. Based on these detection results, a resilient controller combining linear quadratic Gaussian and controllers is provided to guarantee the mean‐square asymptotic stability of CPSs with performance. Finally, the validity of the proposed resilient control approach is demonstrated by a simulation involving satellite control system.
Velocity‐free attitude coordination control of multiple rigid spacecraft with practical predefined‐time convergence
Authors: Zou An‐Min , Tang Yanling , Yu Xinran , Jiao Dexin
Published: August 2024

The issue of velocity‐free practical predefined‐time (PPT) attitude coordination control (ACC) for multiple rigid spacecraft under directed topology and subject to bounded external disturbances is investigated in the article. To gain precise estimates of the spacecraft's velocities together with external disturbances, PPT extended‐state observers are presented by virtue of a time‐varying function technique. Next, distributed PPT state observers are designed to estimate the leader's attitude which is accessible to only some of the followers. One advantage of the designed distributed observers is that the information required to transmit among neighbor spacecraft is only the estimated attitudes, which results in a reduction of the communication burden. Then, a distributed velocity‐free PPT ACC law is put forward in terms of the backstepping approach and the PPT observers. The present control protocol can ensure that the settling time is bounded by a predefined time with no reliance on any other controller parameters or initial conditions. Finally, the efficiency of the developed ACC scheme is illustrated by numerical simulation examples, and it is shown that the designed control law possesses one further salient advantage of required reduced magnitudes of control torques to reach accurate ACC performance.
Green growth and urban employment: Evaluating the impact of ecosystem conservation on diverse sectors in Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Shao Jiacheng , Liu Zeyuan , Ma Guoxia , Zhang Qingyu , Wang Jinnan
Published: August 2024

This study explores the critical yet often overlooked interplay between Sustainable Development Goal 15 (SDG 15), which focuses on preserving natural capital, and SDG 8, which targets economic growth and employment. While extensive research has examined the direct benefits of ecosystem conservation, namely ecosystem service value, the indirect benefits, particularly on employment outcomes, have frequently been neglected. Utilizing a comprehensive dataset of employment statistics and prefecture‐level ecosystem service valuations in Yunnan province from 2010 to 2020, we investigate the impact of ecosystem conservation on employment across various sectors. Our analysis reveals a significant correlation between improved ecosystem services and reduced unemployment rates in Yunnan province over the past decade, with pronounced positive impacts in sectors such as provisioning, ecotourism, and hydropower engineering. Furthermore, incorporating geospatial variables into our econometric model, we find that urbanized coastal cities experience a more substantial reduction in unemployment rates—by an estimated 0.8%—compared to forest‐abundant inland regions. These findings underscore the potential of ecosystem conservation to stimulate urban employment and highlight the need for targeted policies that align with both SDG 15 and SDG 8.
Efficacy and Safety of Intralesional Triamcinolone Acetonide Alone and its Combination with 5- Fluorouracil in Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars: Randomized, Parallel Group, and Double Blinded Trial
Authors: Acharya Ripala , Agrawal Sudha , Khadka Dhan Keshar , Pant Aashish Raj
Published: August 2024

Background

Treatment of keloids and hypertrophic scars is challenging. The current first-line treatment is a steroid which has high resistance and recurrence rate along with unacceptable adverse effects. Different studies involving the combination of TAC and 5-FU that have been done so far showed better treatment outcomes in terms of efficacy and safety.

Objective

The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of intralesional triamcinolone acetonide alone and its combination with 5-fluorouracil in patients with keloids and hypertrophic scars at 12 weeks follow-up.

Methods

In this randomized parallel group double-blinded clinical trial, we enroled 66 cases of keloids and hypertrophic scars randomly allocated into two treatment groups. Patients received an intralesional injection of triamcinolone acetonide (20 mg/mL) in Group A and an intralesional injection of a combination of triamcinolone acetonide (20 mg/mL) and 5-fluorouracil (25 mg/mL) in Group B for every 2 weeks until 10 weeks and the final evaluation was done at 12 weeks follow-up.

Results

There was a reduction in all the parameters at every follow-up visit in both groups. The ≥50% reduction in height, reduction in the VSS and POSAS scores, and good to excellent subjective improvement reported by both the patients and the observer were significantly greater in the combination group compared to TAC alone group. The response rate was faster and complications were lesser in the combination group as compared to TAC alone group.

Limitation

Single-centred, no long-term follow-up, and recurrence could not be assessed.

Conclusion

TAC alone and its combination with the 5-FU both were effective in keloids and hypertrophic scars. Yet, the TAC and 5-FU combination treatment was more efficacious with a faster response rate and safer than the TAC alone treatment.
Coupling High‐Entropy Core with Rh Shell for Efficient pH‐Universal Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Wei Min , Sun Yuyan , Zhang Junyu , Zeng Jianrong , Wang Jike
Published: August 2024

Constructing high‐entropy alloys (HEAs) with core–shell (CS) nanostructure is efficient for enhancing catalytic activity. However, it is extremely challenging to incorporate the CS structure with HEAs. Herein, PtCoNiMoRh@Rh CS nanoparticles (PtCoNiMoRh@Rh) with ∼5.7 nm for pH‐universal hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) are reported for the first time. The PtCoNiMoRh@Rh just require 9.1, 24.9, and 17.1 mV to achieve −10 mA cm−2 in acid, neutral, and alkaline electrolyte, and the corresponding mass activity are 5.8, 2.79, and 91.8 times higher than that of Rh/C. Comparing to PtCoNiMoRh nanoparticles, the PtCoNiMoRh@Rh exhibit excellent HER activity attributed to the decrease of Rh 4d especially 4d5/2 unoccupied state induced by the multi‐active sites in HEA, as well as the synergistic effect in Rh shell and HEA core. Theorical calculation exhibits that Rh‐dyz, dx2, and dxz orbitals experience a negative shift with shell thickness increasing. The HEAs with CS structure would facilitate the rational design of high‐performance HEAs catalysts.
Modulation of π‐Electron Density in Ultrathin 2D Layers of Graphite Carbon Nitride for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
Authors: Zhang Honghua , Liu Zhang , Fang Jianzhang , Peng Feng
Published: August 2024

The rational design and synthesis of novel semiconductor nano‐/quantum materials have been ambitiously pursued in the field of photocatalysis as the technology is promising and critical for attaining future energy and environmental sustainability. Herein, the integrity of aromatic carbon into graphitic carbon nitride (CN) at the same molecular plane with a few 2D layers is achieved by using modulated precursors of CN, forming carbon regulated ultrathin CN (CUCN) with improved charge transfer kinetics and photocatalytic hydrogen production. The grafted graphite rings adjacent to carbon nitride frameworks induce a significant rearrangement and relocalization of the overall framework, and form conjugated sp2 hybridized interfaces and internal electric fields that drive the separation and directional transfer of photogenerated electrons from CN sheets towards intralayer graphite regions, where the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction occurs extensively, yielding largely increased HER rate of 2231.8 µmol g−1 h−1 by 8.2 times relative to CN, as well as a remarkable apparent quantum yield of 2.93% under monochromatic light at 420 nm. The high physicochemical stability and low synthesis cost of CUCN make it a potential benchmark photocatalyst that can be readily modified via element doping, heterojunction introduction, defect engineering, and so on, to further enhance its HER performance.
Construction of Surface Ruoct─O─Cooct Units With Optimized Cooct Spin States for Enhanced Oxygen Reduction and Evolution
Authors: Yu Can‐Wen , Chen Zi‐Qiang , Xu Hong‐Yi , Ouyang Ting , Liu Zhao‐Qing
Published: August 2024

The introduction of noble metal into spinel structure is an effective strategy to develop efficient oxygen evolution/reduction reaction (OER/ORR) catalysts. Herein, surface Cooct is substituted by Ruoct in Rux‐Mn0.5Co2.5‐xO4/NCNTs by ion‐exchange, where presence of Ruoct─O─Cooct unit facilitates electron transfer. This strong electron coupling effect leads downward shift in d‐band center and a narrowing of d‐p bandgap. The increased charge density of Cooct bridged with Ruoct dioxygen optimizes adsorption of oxygen intermediates (*OH) and occupation of electrons in eg‐orbital octahedral. The measured ORR/OER voltage difference is only 0.71 V. The peak power density of assembled zinc–air battery reaches 148.8 mW h cm−2, and energy density at 100 mA cm−2 reaches 813.6 mA h gZn−1, approaching a theoretical value of 820 mA h gZn−1. The catalyst demonstrates stable operation for over 500 h at 10 mA cm−2 and over 200 h at 50 mA cm−2. This work provides new insights to guide fabrication of advanced oxygen electrocatalysts.
Janus Doping of Sulfur into Platinum Diselenide Ribbons
Authors: Li Zechen , Wang Honglin , Wang Huaipeng , Ma Yunpeng , Qing Fangzhu , Li Xuesong , Li Qian , Xie Dan , Zhu Hongwei
Published: August 2024

2D platinum diselenide (PtSe2), a novel member of the transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) family, possesses many excellent properties, including a layer‐dependent bandgap, high carrier mobility, and broadband response, making it promise for applications in technologies like field‐effect transistors and room‐temperature photodetectors. Doping represents an effective method to modify the electrical properties of 2D TMDCs and to bestow upon them additional functions. However, to date, little research has been conducted on the successful doping of 2D PtSe2 for modification. In this study, sulfur (S) powder is utilized during the chemical vapor deposition growth process of 2D PtSe2 ribbons and successfully integrated into the PtSe2 lattice through substitutional doping. The Au substrate significantly decreases the substitution energy of Se atoms in the lower layer of PtSe2, resulting in the formation of the Janus PtSSe structure. S‐doped PtSe2 ribbons demonstrate significant symmetry breaking and enhanced electrical properties, showcasing a strong nonlinear optical response and certain synaptic plasticity, further simulating some neuromorphological processes. This study not only demonstrates a viable method for controllable doping and modification of 2D PtSe2 but also establishes a platform for exploring the characteristics of Janus TMDCs.
Microstructural Evolution, Mechanical and Electrochemical Performance of Duplex Stainless Steel Fabricated by Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing with ER2209 Filler Wire
Authors: Karunanithi Sanjeevi Prakash , Arasappan Rajesh Kannan , Nallathambi Siva Shanmugam
Published: August 2024

This study examines the dependent relationship between microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion performance on the wire arc additive manufactured (WAAM) ER2209 duplex stainless steel (DSS). DSS is renowned for its corrosion resistance and mechanical strength, making it favorable for various applications. This study uses the gas metal arc welding (GMAW)‐ based WAAM technique to fabricate the wall structure using ER2209 DSS filler wire. Fine, equiaxed dendrites are formed along the build direction, with the austenite phase exceeding 70% due to the repeated heating and slow cooling inherent to WAAM process. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) confirms no brittle intermetallic phases. The results shows that varying austenite‐ferrite fractions significantly influences the anisotropy in mechanical properties between build and deposit directions. Along the build direction, the varying phase fraction causes difference in hardness of 19.59 HV0.3 and tensile strength of 20 MPa. The maximum tensile strength (787.08 MPa) is observed in the deposit direction, with a 52 MPa difference between the build and deposit directions. Tafel and EIS measurements indicated that WAAM samples corrosion resistance was almost close to wrought 2205 DSS. This study highlights WAAM's potential for defect‐free DSS parts and suggests post‐heat treatment to optimize microstructure and mechanical properties.
Experimental, theoretical and numerical study on flexural behavior of hybrid steel‐GFRP reinforced concrete slabs
Authors: Meghdadi Zeinab , Khaloo Alireza
Published: August 2024

This paper presents the experimental results of six full‐scale one‐way reinforced concrete slabs with variations in reinforcement detailing. Test specimens consisted of two reference concrete slabs reinforced fully with glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) rebars or with steel rebars and four hybrid‐reinforced slabs. The variables included the arrangement of rebars, mechanical reinforcing ratio, and the ratio of steel rebar area to GFRP rebar area. The fabricated specimens were subjected to four‐point loading until failure in the strong floor laboratory. Experimental results indicated that hybrid reinforcement enhances stiffness compared to FRP reinforcement and provides a higher load‐bearing capacity than steel reinforcement. Also, it was observed that FRP bars placed as tensile reinforcement, similar in number and diameter size to steel bars placed as compressive reinforcement in a slab result in the highest ultimate capacity. Moreover, it was observed that while the mechanical reinforcing ratio contributes to the overall behavior of hybrid‐reinforced concrete slabs, the ratio of steel rebar area to GFRP rebar area is not considerably effective. Furthermore, image processing was employed to determine the exact crack widths of specimens after failure. Finally, finite element modeling results showed good agreement with the experimental results.
Seismic performance of the cantilever segment in prefabricated stepped beam–column joints
Authors: Li Yun , An Yi , Cheng Xin , Li Wenda , Jin Yuehan
Published: August 2024

The seismic performance and construction speed of the prefabricated steel structures are greatly influenced by the configuration of the beam–column joints. The stepped beam–column joint proposed in this paper, featuring with flush surfaces on both the upper and lower beam flanges, was designed to satisfy the requirements of favorable seismic resistance and high installation efficiency. Notably, the junction between the stepped cantilever segment and the stepped beam segment is crucial in the stepped joint. Therefore, cyclic loading tests were conducted on two cantilever specimens with different connection forms to determine their seismic behavior and failure modes. The experimental results indicated that the connection forms have a minor effect on the elastic phase behavior. However, a significant influence was observed on the ultimate load‐bearing capacity and energy dissipation. The result also indicated that the specimen with a thicker end plate exhibited excellent seismic performance, with favorable load‐bearing and plastic deformation capacity. The seismic performance of the joint specimen with U‐shaped latch was inferior, with the welding seam on the flange connected to the end plate tearing prematurely due to the stress concentration. Besides, elaborate finite element models were established, which were confirmed by the test results. Finally, parametric analysis considering the effect of end plate thickness was conducted, and the bolts' forces during the loading progress on the connection surfaces were analyzed. The result indicated that the joint's load‐bearing capacity and stiffness would decrease with the reduction of end plate thickness.