bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reflective practice through a metaphor evaluation task: Should multicultural society be a melting pot, a mosaic or something else?
Authors: Shakoury Kayvan , Boers Frank
Published: September 2024

This article reports an investigation into how a procedure to enhance their metaphor awareness assisted a group of university students in Canada in reflecting on multicultural society. Data were collected through semi‐structured interviews with 50 students who were invited to (a) express their views of Canadian multicultural society, (b) evaluate metaphors used for this topic and (c) reconsider their own metaphors. For most of the students, the metaphor evaluation task led to a better understanding of the implications of the metaphors, which helped them to assess their appropriateness. Through evaluating the metaphors, these students reflected on the matter of cultural diversity in Canada and on the characteristics of a truly multicultural society. The study illustrates how raising students' metaphor awareness can contribute to their reasoning about societal issues.
The Spironolactone Initiation Registry Randomized Interventional Trial in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (SPIRRIT‐HFpEF): Rationale and design
Authors: Lund Lars H. , James Stefan , DeVore Adam D. , Anstrom Kevin J. , Fudim Marat , Aaronson Keith D. , Dahlström Ulf , Desvigne‐Nickens Patrice , Fleg Jerome L. , Yang Song , Fu Michael , Hage Camilla , Held Claes , Karlström Patric , Nygren Magnus , Peterson Eric D. , Pol Tymon , Sapp Shelly , Sundström Johan , Östlund Ollie , Oldgren Jonas , Pitt Bertram
Published: September 2024

Aims

Benefits of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) in heart failure with preserved and mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFpEF/HFmrEF) have not been established. Conventional randomized controlled trials are complex and expensive. The Spironolactone Initiation Registry Randomized Interventional Trial in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (SPIRRIT‐HFpEF) is a unique pragmatic registry‐based randomized controlled trial.

Methods

SPIRRIT‐HFpEF is a multicentre, prospective, randomized, open‐label, blinded endpoint trial conducted on platforms in the Swedish Heart Failure Registry (SwedeHF) and the United States (US) Trial Innovation Network. Patients with HFpEF/HFmrEF are randomized 1:1 to spironolactone (or eplerenone) in addition to usual care, versus usual care alone. The primary outcome is total number of cardiovascular deaths and hospitalizations for heart failure. Outcomes are collected from Swedish administrative complete coverage registries and a US call centre and subsequently adjudicated. Simple eligibility criteria were based on data available in SwedeHF: heart failure as outpatient or at discharge from hospital, left ventricular ejection fraction ≥40%, N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide >300 ng/L (in sinus rhythm) or >750 ng/L (in atrial fibrillation), with pre‐specified adjustment for elevated body mass index, and chronic loop diuretic use. Power and sample size assessments were based on an event‐driven design allowing enrolment over approximately 6 years, and application of hazard ratios from the TOPCAT trial, Americas subset. The final sample size is expected to be approximately 2400 patients.

Conclusion

SPIRRIT‐HFpEF will be informative on the effectiveness of generic MRAs in HFpEF and HFmrEF, and on the feasibility of conducting pragmatic and registry‐based trials in heart failure and other chronic conditions.
Economic Analyses of a New Power and Cooling System at Low Temperature Applications
Authors: Omprakash Munisamy , Shankar Ganesh Narayanan
Published: September 2024

Recent research suggests that the implementation of more efficient combined cooling and power systems, which enable the cogeneration of electricity and cooling, can enhance the efficiency of hybrid plants. The present investigation is motivated by finding that, in the literature review on combined power and cooling systems, there is very limited information on the coupling of the organic Rankine cycle (ORC) and the ejector refrigeration cycle (ERC) with low sink temperatures. A suggested approach to do this involves using hot exhaust gas and waste heat engines to power an ORC hybrid system. To enhance the ORC–ERC system's performance, three heater configurations use waste heat from the ORC turbine exhaust, ejector, and engine waste heat to heat the working fluid. Renewable energy sources are the primary focus of most current research initiatives. The present research focuses on unique ORC and ERC systems, considered as combined power and cooling systems, with the goal of improving exergy performance at low temperatures. The suggested ORC–ERC can generate energy destruction of 69.85 kW at a source temperature of 155 °C, with an exergetic efficiency of 76.9% at the turbine. Setting the entrainment ratio at 0.5 results in a total sum unit cost of products (SUCP) of 465 $/kW‐h for the ORC–ERC. Furthermore, the 37.83% exergy destruction ratio introduces heat exchanger 2 (HE2) as the primary cause of the suggested ORC–ERC's irreversibility. A detailed parametric study reveals that altering the hot source temperature and entrainment ratio improves the system's SUCP. The current examination at high sink temperatures may be expanded to an advanced exergoenvironmental investigation.
The role of genetic testing in adult patients with unexplained epilepsy
Authors: Chung Chi‐Ting , Lee Ni‐Chung , Lin I‐Ting , Chen Pin‐Yu , Jao Tun
Published: September 2024

Objective

Genetic causes are often overlooked in patients with epilepsy of unknown etiology, particularly in adults. We aimed to evaluate clinical features of genetic epilepsy and the utility of genetic testing.

Methods

We retrospectively screened consecutive unrelated adult epilepsy patients at an epilepsy clinic from April 2022 to May 2023. Patients with unknown etiology or special brain lesions were classified as unexplained epilepsy. In them, patients with young‐onset seizures or family history of seizures who were recommended for and ultimately underwent genetic testing using either panel next‐generation sequencing (NGS) or whole‐exome sequencing (WES) were enrolled. A definite or probable genetic diagnosis was established through genotype–phenotype correlation. We compared the demographic characteristics between genetic epilepsy and other etiologies.

Results

Of the 374 adult epilepsy patients, 258 were classified as unexplained epilepsy, 129 were suspected of having genetic epilepsy due to young‐onset seizures or a positive family history, 33 underwent genetic testing; 13 harbored variants classified as pathogenic, and 6 reached a definite genetic diagnosis, resulting in a yield of 18%. Among the 27 patients without a definite genetic diagnosis, 7 had a nongenetic structural etiology. Patients with genetic etiology exhibited greater multisystem involvement particularly multiple structural anomalies and early childhood‐onset seizures, but wasn't directly correlated with young‐onset seizures or a positive family history. The diagnostic yield was comparable between panel NGS and WES.

Significance

In adult patients with unexplained epilepsy, genetic epilepsy is more associated with multisystem involvement and multiple structural anomalies but not family history of seizures or young‐onset seizures.
Gut microbiota dysbiosis and oxidative damage in high‐fat diet‐induced impairment of spermatogenesis: Role of protocatechuic acid intervention
Authors: Hu Ruizhi , Yang Xizi , Wang Long , Su Dingding , He Ziyu , Li Jiaxing , Gong Jiatai , Zhang Wentao , Ma Siqi , Shi Mingkun , Lv Jing , Zhang Qianjin , Hou De‐Xing , Zhang Hongfu , He Jianhua , Yin Yulong , Wang Jun , Wu Shusong
Published: September 2024

In the realm of experimental and epidemiological research, the impact of endotoxemia caused by obesity on male fertility is widely acknowledged. However, the existing body of evidence lacks rigorous studies to substantiate this notion. To address this gap, we have selected protocatechuic acid (PCA) as a potential inhibitor of endotoxemia induced by obesity. This selection is further supported by our utilization of a male model of C57BL/6J mice induced by a high‐fat diet (HFD) and the fecal microbiota transplantation assay. Our findings reveal a negative correlation between semen quality and endotoxin levels in the mice model induced by an HFD. Furthermore, intervention with PCA resulted in the restoration of testicular morphology, sperm traits, and function. The transplantation of PCA did not exhibit restorative effects on semen quality, but it did effectively prevent obesity‐induced intestinal leakage and endotoxemia. By directly enhancing antioxidant capacity, PCA successfully reversed the fertility reduction caused by obesity. These findings offer substantiation that endotoxemia does not play a significant role in the diminished fertility observed in obese males and propose that the inclusion of dietary antioxidant supplementation can potentially restore male fertility.
Could Diffusion Indexes Have Forecasted the Great Depression?
Authors: Mathy Gabriel , Zhao Yongchen
Published: September 2024

Was the Depression forecastable? In this paper, we test how effective diffusion indexes are in forecasting the deepest recession in US history: the Great Depression. In a seminal paper, Moore considered the effectiveness of diffusion indexes, though retrospectively and not out‐of‐sample. We reconstruct Moore's diffusion indexes for this historical period and make our own comparable indexes for out‐of‐sample predictions. We find that diffusion indexes, including the horizon‐specific ones we produce, can nowcast turning points fairly well. Forecasting remains difficult, but our results suggest that the initial downturn in 1929 may be forecastable months before the Great Crash. This is a novel result, as previous authors had generally found the Depression was not forecastable.
Developing the Society of Obstetric Medicine Australia and New Zealand (SOMANZ) Hypertension in Pregnancy Guideline 2023: Guideline development approaches, challenges and contextual considerations
Authors: Shanmugalingam Renuka , Munn Zachary , Barker Timothy H. , Barrett Helen L. , Beech Amanda , Bowyer Lucy , Crozier Tim , Davidson Amanda , Nitert Marloes Dekker , Doyle Aunty Kerrie , Grzeskowiak Luke , Hall Nicole , Hassan Hicham Cheikh , Hennessy Annemarie , Henry Amanda , Langsford David , Lee Vincent W. , Peek Michael , Said Joanne M. , Tanner Helen , Taylor Rachel , Ward Meredith , Waugh Jason , Yen Linda , Medcalf Ellie , Bell Katy , Ackermann Deonna , Turner Robin , Makris Angela
Published: September 2024

The Society of Obstetric Medicine Australia and New Zealand (SOMANZ) Hypertension in Pregnancy Guideline 2023 is the first evidence‐based guideline for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy that has been developed to the standards of the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). This article describes the methodology, challenges and considerations in developing the guideline and includes details on group composition, literature search, evidence synthesis and development of recommendations. We also discuss several practical considerations and challenges related to contextual issues, topics of interest and resources available for guideline developers working with similar jurisdictions or topics.
A novel approach for the active‐mode indirect drying of food grains with high temperature thermal energy storage system
Authors: Verma Ashutosh , Kukreja Rajeev , Srinivas Tangellapalli , Buddhi Dharam
Published: September 2024

This article introduces a novel approach for the active‐mode indirect drying of food grains using an independent high‐temperature thermal energy storage (TES) system. It uses commercial software to conduct numerical analysis of a solar drying unit fused with indirect TES. Employing commercial grade phase change material X‐180, solar drying unit incorporates scheffler dishes, receiver, TES, thermic fluid pump, air blower, and dryer fitted with a radiator. Heat transfer fluid Thermenol‐66 has been used to facilitate the heat transfer from receiver to TES and dryer. Two distinct TES designs, one without fins (case A) and the other with fins (case B), have been used to encapsulate phase change material and facilitate the flow of heat transfer fluid. The dynamic performance of independent solar drying unit components was examined at various mass flow rates during charging and discharging process. The results demonstrate that adding 42 fins, i.e. (case B), reduces the charging and discharging time to 22% and 24%, respectively. Due to high charging and discharging power, the rate of temperature change in case B is 19% higher compared to case A. To maintain drying quality, the dryer should have a continual flow of hot air at a constant temperature. Therefore, utilization of the TES, case A, provides a significantly higher uniformity index and a more extended drying period during the discharge process.
Numerical investigation of an axisymmetric, dissipative, and unstable micropolar fluid flow over a stretched Riga plate incorporating mixed convection and chemical reaction
Authors: Swapna T. , Shamshuddin MD , Sunder Ram M. , Salawu S. O.
Published: September 2024

The demand to improve the thermal performance of industrial working fluids and materials for better quality in engineering and household devices has spurred numerous studies on non‐Newtonian viscous fluids under various conditions. Researchers have explored different structures and geometries to understand and enhance the thermal propagation of fluid particles. As such, this research aims to investigate the effects of two‐dimensional unsteady boundary layer flow phenomena of a dissipative micropolar fluid over a radially stretching Riga plate when first‐order slip, thermal and solutal boundary conditions, mixed convection, and thermal radiation are all considered. Ordinary differential equations are the governing equations resulting from converting partial differential equations. The boundary layer conditions are altered and numerically solved using the Runge–Kutta fourth‐order shooting approach. Graphs and tables are used to visually analyze the physical attributes of temperature, concentration, velocity distributions, skin friction, Nusselt number, and Sherwood in relation to various factors. The results reveal significant insights into the impact of mixed convection and chemical reactions on the flow characteristics and dimensions. These findings have important implications for various engineering applications, particularly in enhancing industrial systems' heat and mass transfer processes, providing practical knowledge for improving thermal performance in real‐world applications.
Ubiquitylomics: An Emerging Approach for Profiling Protein Ubiquitylation in Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Lord Samuel O. , Johnston Harvey E. , Samant Rahul S. , Lai Yu‐Chiang
Published: September 2024

Skeletal muscle is a highly adaptable tissue, finely tuned by various physiological and pathological factors. Whilst the pivotal role of skeletal muscle in overall health is widely acknowledged, unravelling the underlying molecular mechanisms poses ongoing challenges. Protein ubiquitylation, a crucial post‐translational modification, is involved in regulating most biological processes. This widespread impact is achieved through a diverse set of enzymes capable of generating structurally and functionally distinct ubiquitin modifications on proteins. The complexity of protein ubiquitylation has presented significant challenges in not only identifying ubiquitylated proteins but also characterising their functional significance. Mass spectrometry enables in‐depth analysis of proteins and their post‐translational modification status, offering a powerful tool for studying protein ubiquitylation and its biological diversity: an approach termed ubiquitylomics. Ubiquitylomics has been employed to tackle different perspectives of ubiquitylation, including but not limited to global quantification of substrates and ubiquitin linkages, ubiquitin site recognition and crosstalk with other post‐translational modifications. As the field of mass spectrometry continues to evolve, the usage of ubiquitylomics has unravelled novel insights into the regulatory mechanisms of protein ubiquitylation governing biology. However, ubiquitylomics research has predominantly been conducted in cellular models, limiting our understanding of ubiquitin signalling events driving skeletal muscle biology. By integrating the intricate landscape of protein ubiquitylation with dynamic shifts in muscle physiology, ubiquitylomics promises to not only deepen our understanding of skeletal muscle biology but also lay the foundation for developing transformative muscle‐related therapeutics. This review aims to articulate how ubiquitylomics can be utilised by researchers to address different aspects of ubiquitylation signalling in skeletal muscle. We explore methods used in ubiquitylomics experiments, highlight relevant literature employing ubiquitylomics in the context of skeletal muscle and outline considerations for experimental design.
How and when do frequent daily work interruptions contribute to or undermine daily job satisfaction? A stress appraisal perspective
Authors: Körner Barbara , Debus Maike E. , Wu Chia‐Huei , Kleinmann Martin
Published: September 2024

This research brings a broad stress appraisal lens to the study of frequent daily work interruptions, offering a unifying theoretical framework to answer why and when work interruptions can engender negative or positive reactions, thereby explaining seemingly contradictory empirical findings. Drawing on cognitive appraisal theory, we propose that frequent interruptions simultaneously trigger hindrance and threat appraisals, which are associated with negative affective reactions (daily negative affect), and challenge appraisal promoting progress toward daily goals (daily work goal progress). These reactions subsequently shape attitudes (daily job satisfaction) later in the day. Furthermore, when an individual appraises frequent interruptions as controllable (i.e., secondary appraisal), they are less likely to view them as a hindrance or threat and more likely to view them as a challenge. Daily diary data from two studies show that frequent work interruptions can elicit hindrance, threat, and challenge appraisals, and threat appraisal is found to increase daily negative affect and undermine daily work goal progress and, thus, daily job satisfaction. In Study 1, interruptions facilitate daily work goal progress. We also discuss the results of secondary appraisal as a moderator. Taken together, our research provides a broad lens of stress appraisal to expand future research on interruptions.
Synergistic interactions between urban heat islands and heat waves in the Greater Kuala Lumpur and surrounding areas
Authors: Syed Mahbar Sharifah Faridah , Kusaka Hiroyuki
Published: September 2024

The synergistic interactions between urban heat islands (UHI) and heat waves (HW) continue to be debated. Despite the expectations of UHI intensification during HW, several studies have demonstrated variations. Notably, there is a dearth of investigations concerning the UHI–HW synergy in tropical climate cities amidst the escalating trend of more frequent and severe HW in Southeast Asia. To address this gap, our study aimed to investigate the synergies between the UHI and HW phenomena in Greater Kuala Lumpur (GKL) and its surrounding areas. We employed the advanced research version 4.2.2 of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, coupled with a single‐layer Urban Canopy Model (UCM), to examine the impact of UHI during two heat wave events in 2016 (Case 1) and 2020 (Case 2), against the periods immediately before and after these events, which we refer to as Pre‐Post HW (PPHW), in GKL. An elevated UHI intensity (UHII) was evident during the HW in both observations and simulations, with a noticeable distinction particularly observed in Case 1. During HW, observed data indicates average UHII peaks at 1.8°C (0100 LST (UTC+8)) and 1.7°C (1500 LST) in Cases 1 and 2, respectively. In contrast, those for PPHW days for Cases 1 and 2 are 1.5°C (0000 LST) and 1.2°C (0100 LST), respectively. The maximum observed heat loads are likely to occur at noon, reaching 2.3°C at 1600 LST in Case 1 and 3.7°C at 1500 LST in Case 2. LST stands for local standard time. Heat flux component analysis from the surface energy balance model confirmed the UHI–HW synergy. A notable difference in the Bowen Ratio between urban and rural areas highlights the effect of urbanisation on heat fluxes, potentially exacerbating urban discomfort during HW. Consistent across all measurement methods, the evidence indicates a clear and positive synergy between the UHI and HW in the GKL. This study can potentially deliver valuable insights, especially in urban planning, where the implications of weather events are substantial.
Eating concerns in youth with functional abdominal pain disorders
Authors: Sim Leslie , Ramachandran Neha , Murad Sammy T. , Lebow Jocelyn , Alexander Erin , Johnson Grace L. , Harbeck‐Weber Cynthia
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Adolescents with functional abdominal pain (FAP) often experience pain and other gastrointestinal symptoms in the context of eating, which may place them at risk for eating disorders. This study compared disordered eating and its sequalae in adolescents with FAP to those with chronic headache.

Methods

Participants in this retrospective chart review study were 270 adolescents and young adults (mean age 15.9; standard deviation [SD] = 1.63; 60% female) attending an intensive, interdisciplinary pain treatment program, including 135 youth with FAP and an age‐ and gender‐matched control group with a primary pain diagnosis of chronic headache. Information was extracted related to eating‐ and weight‐related symptoms.

Results

Independent t‐tests and χ2 analyses found that compared with adolescents with chronic headache, patients with FAP showed significantly more eating pathology as reflected by scores on the Eating Attitudes Test—26 (EAT‐26) (p < 0.001), endorsement of pain‐related restrictive eating (p < 0.01), eating disorder history (p < 0.001), and avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) diagnoses (p < 0.001). Compared to those with chronic headache, significantly more patients with FAP had lost 10 pounds or more (p < 0.01) and a higher proportion were underweight (p < 0.001). Among all participants, a history of exclusion diets used to manage symptoms significantly increased the risk for ARFID (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results of this study highlight the increased risk of eating‐related concerns among youth with FAP, as well as the judicious use of exclusion diets to manage symptoms in these patients.
A Versatile In Situ Precipitation Assisted Direct‐Write‐3D Printing Strategy for Skinless Hierarchical Porous Polymeric Scaffolds
Authors: Zhang Xinlei , Guo Mingyu
Published: September 2024

Skinless, hierarchical porous 3D polymer scaffolds are of critical importance in tissue engineering, enabling improved cell infiltration, nutrient, metabolite and energy exchange, and biomimetic structures, crucial for regenerative medicine, drug delivery, and advanced material applications. However, it is still a great challenge to construct this kind of material with traditional 3D printing techniques. Herein, a novel simple, and versatile in situ precipitation‐assisted direct‐write‐3D printing strategy for skinless, hierarchical porous 3D scaffolds is reported. Homogenous ink containing molecularly dissolved fructose (soluble porogen molecule) and polymer (whether it is hydrophilic, hydrophobic or amphiphilic) is directly extruded into a nonsolvent bath, where simultaneously solidification of the polymer and in situ precipitation of the porogen molecules both on the exterior surface and inside the separated polymer fibers happen. Subsequently, by simply leaching the in situ formed porogen particles, skinless hierarchical porous polymeric 3D scaffolds can be obtained. It is believed that 3D printing, polymer/macromolecule‐based scaffolds, especially the skinless hierarchical porous biomaterials, and the tissue engineering market can benefit tremendously from this simple and versatile approach.
Heat Transfer Analysis of the Blade Coating Process Using Oldroyd 4‐Constant Nanofluid Model With Non‐Linear Slip and Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) Effects
Authors: Javed Muhammad Asif , Khalil Hammad , Ghaffari Abuzar
Published: September 2024

Blade coating is a process that applies a fluid to a surface using a fixed blade. Among various coating technologies, blade coating offers significant economic advantages. It is commonly employed in the production of paper, information preservation, the application of coloring agents, and the manufacture of photographic films and magnetic storage devices. The novelty of this work lies in the investigation of the blade coating process for an electrically conducting Oldroyd 4‐constant liquid, incorporating velocity slippage at the blade surface in an area previously underexplored. The mathematical equations are modeled with the use of Lubrication Approximation Theory (LAT) and the normalized equations of the Oldroyd 4‐constant fluid are numerically solved by the Matlab built‐in function bvp4c using Regula‐Falsi Method. The impact of sundry parameters on physical quantities is examined through graphical representation. It is noted from the theoretical results that for the fixed value of the MHD parameter (M = 2.5), the coating thickness and blade load increased by 31% and 1648% respectively, for plane coater. For the exponential coater, these values increased by 29% and 1618% from their Newtonian value. These findings offer new insights into optimizing the blade coating process for complex fluid systems.
Microglial senescence in neurodegeneration: Insights, implications, and therapeutic opportunities
Authors: Olajide Tobiloba Samuel , Oyerinde Toheeb O. , Omotosho Omolabake I. , Okeowo Oritoke M. , Olajide Olayemi J. , Ijomone Omamuyouwi M.
Published: September 2024

The existing literature on neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) reveals a common pathological feature: the accumulation of misfolded proteins. However, the heterogeneity in disease onset mechanisms and the specific brain regions affected complicates the understanding of the diverse clinical manifestations of individual NDDs. Dementia, a hallmark symptom across various NDDs, serves as a multifaceted denominator, contributing to the clinical manifestations of these disorders. There is a compelling hypothesis that therapeutic strategies capable of mitigating misfolded protein accumulation and disrupting ongoing pathogenic processes may slow or even halt disease progression. Recent research has linked disease‐associated microglia to their transition into a senescent state—characterized by irreversible cell cycle arrest—in aging populations and NDDs. Although senescent microglia are consistently observed in NDDs, few studies have utilized animal models to explore their role in disease pathology. Emerging evidence from experimental rat models suggests that disease‐associated microglia exhibit characteristics of senescence, indicating that deeper exploration of microglial senescence could enhance our understanding of NDD pathogenesis and reveal novel therapeutic targets. This review underscores the importance of investigating microglial senescence and its potential contributions to the pathophysiology of NDDs, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Additionally, it highlights the potential of targeting microglial senescence through iron chelation and senolytic therapies as innovative approaches for treating age‐related NDDs.
Multistage stochastic programming for integrated network optimization in hurricane relief logistics and evacuation planning
Authors: Bhattarai Sudhan , Song Yongjia
Published: September 2024

In this article, we study the integrated hurricane relief logistics and evacuation planning (IHRLEP) problem, integrating hurricane evacuation and relief item pre‐positioning operations that are typically treated separately. We propose a fully adaptive multistage stochastic programming (MSSP) model and solution approaches based on two‐stage stochastic programming (2SSP). Utilizing historical forecast errors modeled using the auto‐regressive model of order one, we generate hurricane scenarios and approximate the hurricane process as a Markov chain, and each Markovian state is characterized by the hurricane's location and intensity attributes. We conduct a comprehensive numerical experiment based on case studies motivated by Hurricane Florence and Hurricane Ian. Through the computational results, we demonstrate the value of fully adaptive policies given by the MSSP model over static ones given by the 2SSP model in terms of the out‐of‐sample performance. By conducting an extensive sensitivity analysis, we offer insights into how the value of fully adaptive policies varies in comparison to static ones with key problem parameters.
Low‐velocity impact resistance of the Z‐pin reinforced carbon fiber composite laminates
Authors: Wu Wenyun , Guo Zhangxin , Shi Haolin , Niu Weijing , Chai Gin Boay , Li Yongcun
Published: September 2024

A voronoi user material subroutine (VUMAT) was developed using the three‐dimensional Hashin damage criterion and exponential nonlinear damage evolution method. An interlayer damage model based on the quadratic nominal stress (QUADS) criterion and B‐K fracture criterion was introduced, and a finite element model of Z‐pin reinforced composite laminates under low‐velocity impact was established. The low‐velocity impact behavior of Z‐pin reinforced composite laminates with different impact velocities (0.6 m/s, 0.4 m/s, and 0.3 m/s), different layup forms ([0°/90°]4 and [0°/45°/90°/−45°]2), and different Z‐pin spacing (4 mm, 8 mm, and 16 mm) was studied using ABAQUS. The results indicate that different layup forms have little effect on the low‐velocity impact behavior of Z‐pin reinforced composite laminates. The Z‐pin spacing has a significant influence on the low‐velocity impact behavior of Z‐pin reinforced composite laminates. When the impact velocity is 0.4 m/s, the specific energy absorption of composite laminates with Z‐pin spacing of 16 mm is 85.93% and 87.7% lower than that of composite laminates with Z‐pin spacing of 4 mm and 8 mm. As the Z‐pin spacing decreases (Z‐pin density increases), the impact resistance of Z‐pin reinforced composite laminates first increases and then decreases.

Highlights

• The low‐velocity impact of Z‐pin reinforced composite laminates was studied.

• Analyzed the effect of layup forms of laminates on their impact behavior.

• Explored the influence mechanism of Z‐pin spacing on the impact behavior.

• Studied the energy absorption of different Z‐pin spacing under impact velocity.
Stabilization of fractional nonlinear systems with disturbances via sliding mode control
Authors: Wang Feng‐Xian , Cui Jun‐Qi , Zhang Jie , Lu Yu‐Feng , Liu Xin‐Ge
Published: September 2024

In this article, the sliding mode control (SMC) of fractional nonlinear systems (FNSs) with disturbances is studied. First, a useful fractional power‐rate inequality for is extended to a more general form . Based on the generalized inequality, the method of a modified fractional integral SMC is completed, in which the parameter of the symbolic function is extended to and . This increases the degree of freedom of the sliding mode surface (SMS). Then, the SMC of FNSs is studied for the cases of known and unknown disturbances. In the case of known disturbance, it is proved by the generalized inequality and quadratic Lyapunov function method that the state of the FNSs can converge asymptotically to zero on the SMS. For the case of unknown disturbance, a fractional disturbance observer is used to estimate the disturbance by introducing auxiliary variables . The disturbance estimation error of the proposed FNSs is proved to be bounded. An equivalent global control law is obtained and asymptotic convergence of the FNSs under the action of the controller is proved. Finally, two numerical simulation examples are given to verify the feasibility of the method proposed in this article.
Monitoring water quality in the lower Kansas River using remote sensing
Authors: Tufillaro Nicholas , Grötsch Philipp , Lalović Ivan , Moitié Sara De , Zeitlin Luke , Zurita Omar
Published: September 2024

We demonstrate how to combine remote sensing data from satellite imagery (Sentinel‐2) with in situ water quality gauging (USGS Super Gages and the Gybe hyperspectral radiometer) to create spatially dense maps of water quality parameters (chlorophyll‐a concentration, turbidity, and nitrate plus nitrite concentration) along the lower Kansas River. The water quality maps are created using locally tuned models of the target water quality parameters, and this study describes the steps used to design, calibrate, and validate the empirical correlations. Water quality parameters such as chlorophyll‐a concentration are correlated with well‐studied absorption and scattering features in the visible spectrum (roughly 400–700 nm). Nutrients (such as nitrate plus nitrite concentration) lack strong absorption features in the visible spectrum, and in those cases we describe a novel surrogate data modeling approach that identifies overlapping water parcels between the in situ gauging and the remote sensing imagery. Measurements from the overlapping water parcels yield excellent correlations () for the target water quality parameters for limited windows of time (or limited sections of river reaches). Examples are provided illustrating how the water quality maps can be used to track river inputs from ungauged sources (such as creeks), or reveal the mixing patterns at the confluences.
Efficacy Assessment of Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Incorporated with Starch and Macadamia Capped Silver Nanoparticles for the Removal of Multi‐Class Pharmaceuticals in Wastewater
Authors: Nxumalo Nonhlazeko L. , Mahlambi Precious N. , Mahlambi Mphilisi
Published: September 2024

The presence of pharmaceuticals in water bodies has been reported to be mainly due to their incomplete removal by the conventional wastewater treatment processes, resulting to their release into the aquatic environment where they thratens to human health and aquatic life. Therefore, it is important to remove these pollutants from the aquatic environment using affordable highly efficient materials. The goal of this study was to incorporate silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) into MIPs for selective removal of sulfamethoxazole, nevirapine, and ibuprofen in wastewater. The AgNPs were synthesized using starch (St) and macadamia (MCD) as both reducing and stabilizing agents. Thermogravimetric analysis showed high stability for the St/MCD‐nanoMIPs. The ANOVA analysis revealed that the parameters affecting adsorption of St/MCD‐nanoMIPs have a significant difference (p<0.05). The St/MCD‐AgNPs experimental data fitted to both Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms, however, the non‐linear Langmuir isotherm model yielded a better fit based on the higher R2 value (0.999). The non‐linear Freundlich model best fitted for the St/MCD‐nanoMIPs. The linear pseudo‐second order model shown best fit for St/MCD‐nanoMIPs, the thermodynamic results revealed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic. The St/MCD‐nanoMIPs showed improved qualities and were highly selective (>70 %) and effective in removing the selected pharmaceuticals from wastewater.
Synthesis of 2‐Pyridyl Based N(1)‐Substituted Thiosemicarbazonates of Nickel(II) as Bioactive Materials against MRSA, S. aureus, S. typhimurium 2, and K. pneumonia
Authors: Kaushal Mani , Bala Ritu , Lobana Tarlok S. , Nim Lovedeep , Arora Daljit S. , Jasinski Jerry P.
Published: September 2024

In this investigation, the bio‐activity and biosafe potential of thiosemicarbazonates of nickel(II) as well as that of ligands are described. Reactions of nickel(II) acetate with a series of thiosemicarbazones, {R1(py)C2=N3‐N2(H)‐C1(=S)‐NHR; R1=py, Me, H and Ph; R=H, Me, Et, Ph}, led to the loss of acidic hydrazinic N2(H) protons, and resulted in the formation of six‐coordinated complexes of stoichiometry, [Ni(N,N,S−L)2], where anionic N,N,S−L=py2tsc‐NHR, 1–4; apytsc‐NHR, 5–8; pytsc‐NHR, 9–12 and bpytsc‐NHR, 13–16. All these complexes have been characterized using analytical data, IR and UV‐visible spectroscopy and ESI‐mass spectrometry. The single crystal X‐ray crystal structure of several complexes {2(Me), 7(Et), 11(Et), 12(Ph), 13(H),14(Me) and 15(Et)} were also determined. Thio‐ligands coordinate to nickel(II) through pyridyl nitrogen‐N4, azomethine nitrogen‐N3 and thiolato sulfur atoms, resulting in the formation of homoleptic complexes with octahedral structures. Complexes 1–16 and uncoordinated thiosemicarbzones, were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity, in terms of ZOI, MIC, time kill assay and in vitro percent cell viability MTT assay, against clinical isolate methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC740), Klebsiella pneumonia (MTCC109), Salmonella typhimurium (MTCC1251), and Candida albicans (MTCC227), a yeast. Both the ligands and their metal complexes exhibited moderate to high bioactivity, and were found to be biosafe with high cell viability, 88–92 %, in several cases.
Green Synthesis of Clay/rGO Composite for Sensitive Detection of Para Nitrophenol in the Environment
Authors: Laghrib Fathellah , Azriouil Mouhcine , Aghris Sara , Farahi Abdelfettah , Saqrane Sanaa , Bakasse Mina , Lahrich Sara , El Mhammedi Moulay Abderrahim
Published: September 2024

Nitrophenols (e. g., para nitrophenol), although they have beneficial properties, their residuals are injurious to the environment owing to their high lethal potential for many categories of nature (e. g. animals, humans, plants, etc.), which require their monitoring. In this paper, a new Clay/green reduced graphene oxide composite (Clay/rGO) was efficaciously synthesized and utilized as an excellent modifier for carbon paste electrode (CPE) for the electro‐analytical determination of paranitrophenol (PNØ). The electrochemical futures and reduction of PNØ at the surface of the as‐prepared Clay/rGO˧CPE have been executed using DPV differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The use of the EIS provided that the Clay/rGO˧CPE facilitate the electron exchange process. By using the DPV technique in phosphate buffer (PB) under biological pH (7) (PB_7) the prepared monitor exhibited an excellent linearity relationship in the concentration ranges from 1.0 to 1000.0 μM with a detection limit (DL=3×σ/P) of 0.16 μM and a quantification limit of (QL=10×σ/P) of 0.54 μM. The Clay/rGO˧CPE offered high selectivity and a satisfactory concert in the electroanalytical sensing of PNØ in wastewater sample.
Recent Biomedical Applications of Functional Materials Based on Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane (POSS)
Authors: Chang Yun‐Kai , Hao Shi‐Jie , Wu Fu‐Gen
Published: September 2024

Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) is a 3D, cage‐like nanoparticle with an inorganic Si–O–Si core and eight tunable corner functional groups. Its well‐defined structure grants it distinctive physical, chemical, and biological properties and has been widely used for preparing high‐performance materials. Recently, click chemistry has enabled the synthesis of various functional POSS‐based materials for diverse biomedical applications. This article reviews the recent applications of POSS‐based materials in the biomedical field, including cancer treatment, tissue engineering, antibacterial use, and biomedical imaging. Representative examples are discussed in detail. Among the various POSS‐based applications, cancer treatment and tissue engineering are the most important. Finally, this review presents the current limitations of POSS‐based materials and provides guidance for future research.
Ferroelectric Interfaces for Dendrite Prevention in Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Hu Xueqing , Narayan Bastola , Naresh Nibagani , Pinnock Iman , Zhu Yijia , Liu Xiaopeng , Wang Tianlei , Li Bing , Parkin Ivan P. , Boruah Buddha Deka
Published: September 2024

Aqueous rechargeable zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) are increasingly recognized as promising energy storage systems for mini‐grid and mini‐off‐grid applications due to their advantageous characteristics such as high safety, affordability, and considerable theoretical capacity. However, the long‐term cycling performance of ZIBs is hampered by challenges including the uncontrolled dendrite formation, the passivation, and the occurrence of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) on the Zn anode. In this study, enhancing ZIB performance by implementing oxide material coatings on Zn metal, serving as a physical barrier at the electrode‐electrolyte interfaces to mitigate dendrite growth and suppress the HER is concentrated. Specifically, the mechanisms through which the n‐type semiconductor TiO2 coated Zn anode establishes ohmic contact with Zn, and the high‐dielectric BaTiO3 (BTO) coated Zn anode fosters Maxwell‐Wagner polarization with ferroelectric properties, significantly inhibiting dendrite growth and side reactions, thereby resulting in a highly stable Zn anode for efficient aqueous ZIBs is explored. This advanced BTO/Zn electrode demonstrates an extended lifespan of over 700 h compared to bare Zn and TiO2/Zn anodes. Additionally, full‐cell aqueous ZIBs incorporating BTO/Zn//VO2 (B) batteries exhibit superior rate capabilities, high capacity, and sustained cycle life.
Conductive Polymer Hydrogel‐Derived 3D Nanostructures for Energy and Environmental Electrocatalysis
Authors: Lin Siyi , Li Xin , Yuan Dunyi , Liu Yuanting , Jin Zhaoyu , Li Panpan
Published: September 2024

Renewable energy and advanced water treatment technologies hold profound significance for driving sustainable development in modern society. Given the environmental friendliness and high efficiency of electrocatalysis processes, great expectations are placed on their applications in energy and water‐related fields. However, the electrocatalysis is limited by the selectivity, activity, and durability of the electrocatalytic reactions. Hydrogels, with their hierarchical porous structure, compositional and structural tunability, and ease of functionalization, are bringing surprising advances in advanced energy and environment. Hydrogel catalysts, inheriting the advantages of hydrogel materials, hold promise for achieving significant breakthroughs in electrochemical performance. Here, the latest advancements in energy and environmental electrocatalytic fields are summarized based on the 3D nanostructured hydrogel catalysts. In addition, future potentials and challenges of continuing research on hydrogel materials for energy and environment are discussed.
Light‐controlled smart materials: Supramolecular regulation and applications
Authors: Liao Zi‐Hao , Wang Feng
Published: September 2024

Smart materials serve as the fundamental cornerstone supporting humanity's transition into the intelligent era. Smart materials possess the capability to perceive external stimuli and respond accordingly. Light‐controlled smart materials (LCSMs) are a significant category that can sense and respond to light stimuli. Light, being a non‐invasive, precisely regulated, and remotely controllable source of physical stimulation, makes LCSMs indispensable in certain application scenarios. Recently, the construction of LCSMs using supramolecular strategies has emerged as a significant research focus. Supramolecular assembly, based on non‐covalent bonding, offers dynamic, reversible, and biomimetic properties. By integrating supramolecular systems with photoresponsive molecular building blocks, these materials can achieve synergistic and rich intelligent stimulus responses. This review delves into the latest research advancements in LCSMs based on supramolecular strategies. There are four sections in this review. The first section defines LCSMs and outlines their advantages. The second section discusses the design approaches of supramolecular LCSMs. The third section highlights the latest advancements on supramolecular LCSMs over the past 3 years. The fourth section summarizes the current research and provides insights into the future development of this field.
Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Properties of Nb‐Containing Medium‐Mn Low‐Density Steels
Authors: Ma Chen , Zhang Jianlei , An Fenghui , Chen Gang , Zhou Junye , Song Changjiang , Zhai Qijie
Published: September 2024

Microalloying of Nb has been commonly utilized to enhance the structure and mechanical properties of advanced high‐strength steel (AHSS), but its application in medium‐Mn low‐density steel has been relatively understudied. This study aims to investigate the evolution of nano‐scale precipitates and mechanical properties of Fe‐12Mn‐9Al‐3Cr‐1.4C‐0.02/0.04Nb low‐density steels. The findings reveal that the austenite grain size of 0.04Nb steels is approximately half that of 0.02Nb steels due to the precipitation of NbC particles. Moreover, the addition of Nb is found to elevate the formation energy of κ‐carbide, thereby impeding its growth and coarsening. Consequently, the intragranular κ‐carbides in 0.04Nb steels are consistently smaller than those in 0.02Nb steels, with no coarsened intergranular κ‐carbides detected in either steel variant after aging treatment at 723–823 K. Despite a slight reduction on precipitation strengthening of κ‐carbides with higher Nb content, the yield strength of 0.04Nb steels exceeds that of 0.02Nb steels by ≈71 MPa, mainly due to additional fine grain strengthening and dislocation strengthening. The strengthening mechanisms in the Nb‐containing low‐density steels are analyzed quantitatively. The role of Nb in regulating the microstructure and mechanical properties of medium‐Mn low‐density steels is comprehensively discussed, offering valuable insights for the alloy design of low‐density steel.
Caring and connecting with multilingual families through the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: McIntosh Kathryn , Buxton Cory , Patiño‐Cabrera Nelly , Ettenauer Barbara
Published: September 2024

This study uses authentic cariño to explore a care and connect model in a case study of a single district in Teachers Educating All Multilingual Students (TEAMS), funded by a National Professional Development (NPD) grant. Along with ESOL/dual language licensure coursework, teachers in five districts engage in family–school–community partnerships to develop multilingual family engagement. COVID‐19 required urgent shifts in how teachers and districts reached families and offered services. Accordingly, the research question is as follows: How did TEAMS teachers' conceptions of caring and connecting to support multilingual family engagement shift in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic? Data included three teacher focus groups per district, interviews with facilitators and administrators, and individual teacher interviews. Case study was used across districts, but focusing particularly on one district with high percentages of teachers of color and low‐income multilingual families, the population hardest hit and dehumanized during COVID‐19. Analysis employed critical authentic cariño to explore teachers' authentic and aesthetic care that shifted over time—from focus on technologies and translators, pity, depersonalized objectives, and academic goals to warmer relationships, personalismo, relaxing together, reaching out, persistence, and advocacy. Results suggest ways to transform structures to better meet the needs of multilingual families by organizing around authentic care with families.