bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulation performance of terahertz waves by titanium disulfide nanosheets towards 6G
Authors: Wang Jintao , Ye Chuanxiang , Zhong Wenji
Published: October 2024

The TiS2 compound has attracted considerable attention among researchers in the fields of energy storage and conversion, as well as semiconductor materials. This is due to its remarkable capability to incorporate various elements into its van der Waals gap, as well as its potential to adjust the carrier concentration within the material to optimize its electrically relevant properties. In our study, we employed a terahertz (THz) time‐domain spectroscopy system to measure the spectra of TiS2 within the THz frequency range. Through this analysis, we examined the optical parameters, such as transmittance and refractive index, of the TiS2 samples. Additionally, we conducted optical pumping correlation experiments using THz detection technology to investigate the optical pumping effects on TiS2. By analyzing the THz energy transmission process in different states, we were able to calculate and fit the carrier recombination time. The findings of our research hold significant implications for the advancement of THz devices operating in the 6G frequency band.
Timing of intravenous immunoglobulin treatment and outcome in Guillain–Barré syndrome: Is time nerve?
Authors: Min Young Gi , Hong Yoon‐Ho , Rajabally Yusuf A. , Sung Jung‐Joon
Published: October 2024

Introduction/Aims

Despite treatment, a considerable proportion of patients with Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) experience poor recovery, highlighting a therapeutic need. There is a lack of evidence that treatment timing affects recovery. This study aims to investigate the effects of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) timing on disability and speed of recovery in GBS.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of 136 IVIg‐treated GBS patients admitted to two Korean centers between 2010 and 2021. We analyzed the effect of time to IVIg on the GBS disability scale (GBS‐DS) and the degree of improvement from nadir (∆GBS‐DS) at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, as well as the time to regain the ability to walk or run unaided. Time to IVIg was treated either as a continuous variable or categorized into 1‐week intervals to explore critical time windows. Known prognostic factors, the modified Erasmus GBS Outcome Scores on admission and pre‐treatment serum albumin levels were adjusted as covariates.

Results

Shorter time to IVIg was independently associated with better GBS‐DS, greater ∆GBS‐DS, and shorter time to walk or run unaided at all time points. The therapeutic effect of IVIg was notably diminished when administered beyond the first 2 weeks of onset.

Discussion

Our study highlights the timing of IVIg as a modifiable prognostic factor in GBS. The earlier IVIg is initiated, the better the outcomes, with the ideal time window being within the first 2 weeks. These findings underscore the importance of prompt diagnosis and early intervention to optimize recovery in GBS patients.
3D Semi‐Analytical and Numerical Upper‐Bound Homogenisation Approaches to the Out‐of‐Plane Strength Domain of a Running‐Bond Masonry Wall
Authors: Donval Elodie , Hassen Ghazi , Pham Duc Toan , de Buhan Patrick , Vigroux Martin
Published: October 2024

The present contribution proposes a new semi‐analytical homogenisation approach to determine a running‐bond masonry wall's in‐ and out‐of‐plane strength domain based on the yield design framework. The main novelty of such an approach is that it does not rely on simplifying assumptions such as infinitely thin joints or plane stress state within the blocks, by making use of 3D virtual failure mechanisms in the kinematic approach. The new semi‐analytical approach is then compared to a state‐of‐the‐art numerical implementation of the kinematic approach of yield design, relying on semi‐definite programming. Several comparisons show a good agreement between the semi‐analytical and the numerical approaches and outline the computational efficiency of the semi‐analytical approach as well as the fact that it is very well suited for engineering design purposes. Both proposed approaches are then compared to existing approaches based on the limit analysis or yield design framework.
Practice changes and infant health risks during the 2022 infant formula shortage: Results of a US healthcare provider survey
Authors: Sheehan Marguerite Drowica , Orenstein Diana , Addisu Leeyu , Patil Sujata , Kuehn Devon
Published: October 2024

Background

In February 2022, an infant formula recall and closing of a major manufacturing center exacerbated a nationwide shortage initiated by COVID‐19–related supply chain disruptions. The effects were far‐reaching, impacting families and healthcare providers across the US.

Methods

A 19‐item web survey was developed to better understand how the infant formula shortage impacted healthcare provider practices, resources needed and those already used, and patient health, including malnutrition. Subjective data on providers' experience were also collected.

Results

Two hundred forty‐one providers responded, primarily registered dietitians (94%) practicing in inpatient/academic hospitals in urban and metropolitan areas. Practice adjustments included increases in patient education (100%), communication with pharmacies/durable medical equipment companies (65%), and visit durations (28%). Feeding adjustments by caregivers included new infant formula (99%), toddler (55%) or homemade (23%) formula, cow's milk (46%) or milk alternatives (32%), formula dilution (41%), and early food introduction (14%). Providers indicated an increase in malnutrition (33%), related diagnoses (including failure to thrive [31%] and deceleration in z score [27%]), and associated symptoms. Of the providers who reported malnutrition and related diagnoses, 93% also reported caregiver feeding practices that are generally not recommended.

Conclusion

Providers made practice adjustments to mitigate the consequences associated with formula unavailability and misuse yet saw an increase in malnutrition and related diagnoses or symptoms. Subjectively, providers reported frustration that greater workloads did not result in improved outcomes, contributing to burnout. These data underscore the essentiality of supporting healthcare providers as they guide families in safe infant feeding practices.
Coach access to digital self‐monitoring data: an experimental test of short‐term effects in behavioral weight‐loss treatment
Authors: Butryn Meghan L. , Miller Nicole A. , Hagerman Charlotte J. , Arigo Danielle , LaFata Erica , Zhang Fengqing , Spring Bonnie , Forman Evan
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study experimentally tested whether coach access to participants' digital self‐monitoring data improved behavioral weight‐loss outcomes.

Methods

Participants (N = 322) received 12 weeks of group‐based behavioral weight‐loss sessions via videoconference and were instructed to engage in daily self‐monitoring of weight, physical activity (PA), and dietary intake. For participants who were randomly assigned to Coach Share ON (n = 161), coaches regularly accessed a web‐based portal that displayed data from the participants' scale, PA sensor, and food record.

Results

Weight loss at 12 weeks was significantly greater in Coach Share ON versus OFF (6.2% vs. 5.3%; p = 0.04). Self‐monitoring of PA (98.70% vs. 97.40% of days; p = 0.006) and eating (98.05% vs. 93.51% of days; p = 0.007) was more frequent in Coach Share ON versus OFF. There were no significant differences by condition in PA (p = 0.57), attendance (p = 0.42), working alliance (p = 0.62), or self‐monitoring of weight (p = 0.12). Perceived supportive accountability was significantly greater in Coach Share ON versus OFF (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The short‐term efficacy of behavioral weight loss was greater when coaches had direct access to self‐monitoring device data. Notably, there also was no evidence of iatrogenic effects of data sharing.
The Impact of Green Intellectual Capital on Audit Quality
Authors: Jabbar Ahmed Sattar , Salehi Mahdi , Moradi Mahdi
Published: October 2024

The current research investigates the impact of green intellectual capital (GIC) and its components on audit quality. In other words, the current study seeks to find whether the entrepreneur's GIC can affect the audit quality. The research method is applied based on the objective and descriptive survey based on the method. The statistical population of the research includes all auditors working in audit institutions in Iraq; 299 participants were selected as the sample size using Cochran's sampling method. This paper used PLS tests to investigate the effect of independent variables on the dependent variable. The results show a positive and significant relationship between the GIC and its three components, including green human capital (GHC), green structural capital (GSC), green relational capital (GRC) and audit quality. Moreover, the findings suggest that among the triple‐employed components of GIC, the GSC plays a paramount role in improving audit quality. So far, no research has investigated the impact of GIC and its triple components on audit quality in Iraq. The results can provide valuable information to managers, auditors, and policymakers and contribute to developing science and knowledge in this area.
Hierarchical modelling in benchmarking, analysis and code development for coupled geo‐processes
Authors: Nagel Thomas , Buchwald Jörg , Kiszkurno Feliks , Pitz Michael , Helfer Thomas
Published: October 2024

Geotechnical safety analysis relies on numerical simulations capturing interacting physical phenomena. Systematic model development and selection are vital for interpretable results without black‐box aspects. Interpretability implies that models can be checked for plausibility and consistency as a whole and in terms of individual components by the handling engineers. This contribution discusses the following three related aspects: (1) confidence‐building through embedding process models in a complexity hierarchy that ensures physical consistency among its members and provides an avenue for software testing and confidence building; (2) combining probabilistic engineering analyses with such model hierarchies to allow selection of the most appropriate process model given a set of experimental data while avoiding overfitting and (3) separating distinct model aspects both technically and logically for reproducibility, efficiency and quality assurance of simulation software. The latter aspect is illustrated based on the example of a material model database that can be linked to different process codes.
Double‐surface plasticity for micropolar continuum
Authors: Börger Alexander , Mahnken Rolf
Published: October 2024

This work is concerned with the modeling of a cold‐box sand (CBS), a composition of sand grains and a resin binder. To this end, experiments are performed which show the following characteristics: localization phenomena in form of a shear band, softening behavior in the force‐displacement curve, asymmetric behavior for compression and tension. These complex characteristics require a sophisticated material model. For this purpose a micropolar continuum, which is a special case of the micromorphic continuum, is used. In addition to the degrees of freedom of a classical continuum, the micropolar model has additional degrees of freedom in the form of micro‐rotations, which represent the grains of sand in our analyzed material. The macro‐part of this model represents the binder of the CBS. In order to make the micropolar model as flexible as possible, two flow functions are introduced; one for the macro‐part and one for the micro‐part. This approach is called double‐surface plasticity. The two flow functions can be implemented independently or coupled, depending on the application. For the coupled case, the radial‐return algorithm is no longer sufficient, so that the local iteration is calculated with the Fischer–Burmeister residual. Due to the lack of rotational symmetry in the experimental results, it is not possible to compute in two dimensions; instead, a 3D model is used for the simulation.
Links between deforestation, conservation areas and conservation funding in major deforestation regions of South America
Authors: Qin Siyu , Buchadas Ana , Meyfroidt Patrick , He Yifan , Ghoddousi Arash , Pötzschner Florian , Baumann Matthias , Kuemmerle Tobias
Published: October 2024

Land‐use change is a major driver of biodiversity loss, affecting tropical forests and savannas at an unprecedented rate. To protect these ecosystems and their biodiversity, national conservation areas and international conservation funding have increased considerably in these regions. Understanding of how conservation funding allocation relates to dynamics in deforestation and conservation areas is crucial to identifying what mobilizes and distributes conservation funding.

By applying fixed‐effect models on 30 years of dynamics in forest cover, conservation areas and conservation funding in the main deforestation regions of South America, we analysed the conservation funding allocation strategies in relation to deforestation (proactive vs. reactive), conservation areas (expanding or consolidating) and previous investment (agglomerating or not). We also assessed whether allocation strategies vary across regions and the stages of deforestation and conservation.

We found that funding allocation followed conservation areas and higher prior funding levels over space and over time, across all regions and deforestation stages. This highlights the important role of recognized conservation areas (including protected areas and Indigenous territories) in mobilizing financial support for conservation.

The allocation strategies relating to forest dynamics, however, varied depending on the scale of analysis, whether we look at the temporal or spatial dimension, and in which regions we assessed the allocation patterns. Capturing region‐level biases and within‐region dynamics is crucial for more effective and equitable conservation.

As public and private actors commit to mobilizing more conservation funding and conserving more areas of the Earth, our insights on the relations between forest change and conservation efforts can help improve the allocation of conservation areas and conservation funding.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
The evolutionary history of metastatic pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours reveals a therapy driven route to high‐grade transformation
Authors: Backman Samuel , Botling Johan , Nord Helena , Ghosal Suman , Stålberg Peter , Juhlin C. Christofer , Almlöf Jonas , Sundin Anders , Zhang Liang , Moens Lotte , Eriksson Barbro , Welin Staffan , Hellman Per , Skogseid Britt , Pacak Karel , Mollazadegan Kazhan , Åkerström Tobias , Crona Joakim
Published: October 2024

Tumour evolution with acquisition of more aggressive disease characteristics is a hallmark of disseminated cancer. Metastatic pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PanNETs) in particular may progress from a low/intermediate to a high‐grade disease. The aim of this work was to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying metastatic progression as well as PanNET transformation from a low/intermediate to a high‐grade disease. We performed multi‐omics analysis (genome/exome sequencing, total RNA‐sequencing and methylation array) of 32 longitudinal samples from six patients with metastatic low/intermediate grade PanNET. The clonal composition of tumour lesions and underlying phylogeny of each patient were determined with bioinformatics analyses. Findings were validated in post‐alkylating chemotherapy samples from 24 patients with PanNET using targeted next generation sequencing. We validate the current PanNET evolutionary model with MEN1 inactivation that occurs very early in tumourigenesis. This was followed by pronounced genetic diversity on both spatial and temporal levels, with parallel and convergent tumour evolution involving the ATRX/DAXX and mechanistic target of the rapamycin (mTOR) pathways. Following alkylating chemotherapy treatment, some PanNETs developed mismatch repair deficiency and acquired a hypermutational phenotype. This was validated among 16 patients with PanNET who had high‐grade progression after alkylating chemotherapy, of whom eight had a tumour mutational burden >50 (50%). In comparison, among the eight patients who did not show high‐grade progression, 0 had a tumour mutational burden >50 (0%; odds ratio ‘infinite’, 95% confidence interval 1.8 to ‘infinite’, p = 0.02). Our findings contribute to broaden the understanding of metastatic/high‐grade PanNETs and suggests that therapy driven disease evolution is an important hallmark of this disease. © 2024 The Author(s). The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
The Association Between the Structure of the Fatty Chain in Amides and Their Lubricating Performance in Acrylonitrile‐Butadiene‐Styrene (ABS) Resins
Authors: Sun Xiang , Hu Huilin , Kang Ning , Song Zhenbiao , Lu Shulai , Zhao Shicheng
Published: October 2024

The exploitation of efficient lubricants for ABS resins is widely recognized as beneficial for industrial production. Fatty diamides are typically applied as the lubricants for ABS resins; however, the connection between fatty chain structures and the lubricating properties is still vague. In this work, a range of ethylenediamine‐based amide lubricants (EDA‐Cn) with different fatty chain structures were successfully prepared and chemical structures were characterized in detail by the Fourier transform infrared spectrometer and proton nuclear magnetic resonance. The rheological test results suggested that the complex viscosity and relaxation time were positively associated with the fatty chain lengths of EDA‐Cn. The dynamic mechanical analysis results confirmed that EDA‐Cn exhibited excellent compatibility with ABS resins. The lubricating effect of EDA‐Cn decreased with increasing fatty chain lengths, which was manifested by a higher glass transition temperature, and lower elongation at break of ABS resins. In comparison to EDA‐C22, the complex viscosity (angular frequency = 0.1 rad/s) and glass transition temperature of EDA‐C10 have decreased by 24.9% and 3.9%, respectively. The molecular dynamics simulations revealed the intrinsic mechanism of lubricant‐substrate interaction. The EDA‐Cn containing short fatty chain lengths reduced the interaction energy with the matrix, thereby promoting the diffusive movement of the chain segments, and resulted in the increase in the mean square displacement and improved flow properties. These findings provided sufficient theoretical basis for the rational design and preparation of lubricants for ABS resins.
Comprehensive pulmonary function analysis identifies predominant obstructive phenotype in former premature infants around one year of age
Authors: Stein Elkie S. , Hevroni Avigdor , Zarfati Mor , Erlichman Ira , Boursheh Laurice , Gileles‐Hillel Alex
Published: October 2024

Background

Preterm infants suffer from significant respiratory morbidity during the first years of life, but the underlying lung pathophysiology is not fully understood. This study aimed to comprehensively characterize the pulmonary functions of preterm infants using full infant pulmonary function testing (iPFT).

Methods

Between 2008 and 2019, we recruited 150 infants (Mage 10.5 ± 6 months) of them 104 preterm infants (median gestational age [GA] = 34 weeks (28–36), n = 23 with bronchopulmonary disease [BPD]) and 46 controls born at term. We compared full iPFT parameters of preterm infants to a control group of term infants. Subanalysis included a comparison of preterm infants by BPD status and GA.

Results

Preterm infants had impaired flow parameters, reduced compliance, and air trapping, compared to term infants. Only 15% (n = 14) of the preterm group had normal iPFT, compared to 69% (n = 31) of the term group. The majority of the impaired iPFT in preterm infants were obstructive and 72% (n = 69) had no response to bronchodilators. Reduced maximal flow at the functional residual capacity point (V'maxFRC) was associated with low birth weight and GA. There were no major differences between preterm infants with or without BPD.

Conclusions

Preterm infants in the first year of life, demonstrated a high prevalence of obstructive iPFT unresponsive to bronchodilators. BPD status did not add to the degree of pulmonary impairment. These data reveal an airway‐predominant pathology of the modern‐era prematurity‐associated lung disease. Pulmonary function screening tests at an early age may be of value in determining the presence and severity of lung disease in the preterm population. V'maxFRC may provide a good assessment of pulmonary impairment in preterm infants.
Effects of shuttle balance exercises on gait speed, postural control, and quality of life in older males: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mohammadian Zahra , Alimoradi Mohammad , Ramirez‐Campillo Rodrigo
Published: October 2024

Background and purpose

Enhancing physical function and quality of life in older adults at higher risk of falls is challenging because of the lack of established interventions. This study examines the impact of a 6‐week balance training program using the shuttle balance device on gait speed, postural control, and quality of life in older men.

Methods

This single‐blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted in a research laboratory. Thirty‐two participants aged ≥60 years were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (EG; n = 16) or a control group (CG; n = 14). The EG participated in a 6‐week shuttle balance exercise program, while the CG maintained regular physical activity routines. The main outcome measures included gait speed (assessed via the timed up and go test), postural control (assessed via center of pressure data on a force plate), and quality of life (evaluated using the SF‐36 questionnaire).

Results

Post‐intervention, the EG showed significant improvements compared with the CG (p < 0.05). The 95% confidence intervals for the differences between groups were as follows: closed eyes (CE) mean velocity (−39.07, −0.13), CE sway area (−48.86, −0.18), SF‐36 total score (9.01, 16.81), SF‐36 physical functioning (7.00, 24.81), SF‐36 physical role functioning (1.80, 27.57), SF‐36 pain (15.01, 36.82), SF‐36 general health state (7.48, 26.08), SF‐36 vitality (5.60, 28.35), and SF‐36 mental health (0.21, 21.12).

Discussion

A 6‐week shuttle balance training program significantly improves postural control and quality of life in older males. These findings suggest the potential effectiveness of shuttle balance exercises in enhancing physical function and well‐being in this population. Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore the long‐term effects with larger sample sizes.
Mobility patterns in Austrian and Italian municipalities in the decade before and during the COVID‐19 era
Authors: Ghio Daniela , Goujon Anne , Bosco Claudio
Published: October 2024

In European countries, where the demographic transition has reached advanced stages and the natural increase has fallen below zero, migration constitutes a significant component of local population change. We investigate to what extent the dynamics of international migration and internal mobility changed during the first waves of the COVID‐19 pandemic, compared to the previous decade. We focus on Austrian and Italian municipalities to assess the contribution of migration components to local population growth, using official data provided by National Statistical Institutes on inflows and outflows of migrant and native populations, from 2010 to 2020. The adoption of harmonized degrees of urbanization allows us to profile spatial and demographic patterns of mobility, in the Austrian and Italian territories. We apply Bayesian‐Geostatistical models, and Artificial Neural‐Networks to investigate the potential determinants of mobility variability. The results reveal Austrian and Italian population‐specific migration trends. Overall, the trends observed in the decade before the pandemic were either confirmed or further accentuated during the COVID‐19 era. Although rural‐urban mobility generally persisted in both countries, counter‐urbanization trends were detected among Austrian populations during the initial period of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Conversely, urban and intermediate municipalities in Italy maintained their attractiveness and capacity to retain Italian populations. These findings offer new empirical insights into urbanization dynamics in a comparative perspective, which are particularly relevant for the definition of European regional policy aimed at matching local needs with national social cohesion goals.
Understanding the geographical process of the decline in manufacturing employment in China between 2000 and 2020
Authors: Zhou Lin , Jie Yangyang , Ye Zhenyu , Gu Hengyu
Published: October 2024

The decline in manufacturing employment has emerged as a global demographic phenomenon in recent decades. However, previous research has primarily focused on the national level, resulting in limited geographical insights into the spatial variations of this decline at more minor scales. Our paper decodes the long‐term geographical process of manufacturing employment decline at the city level in China from an “industry‐population‐place” perspective, underscoring the pivotal role played by technological advancements. The results show that, during 2000–2010 and 2010–2020, the unbalanced changing pattern of China's manufacturing employment appeared to be a disruptive reallocation. The technology‐driven transition of manufacturing employment decline at the city level in China was identified. During 2000–2010, over 60% of cities experiencing a decline in manufacturing employment were technologically lost, while technological density improvement became the “main melody” in most cities experiencing such decline during 2010–2020. In a city experiencing such a decline, the greater the improvement in technological intensity, the stronger the positive effect of the decline on local economic development, particularly when accompanied by an expansion in the socioeconomic scale of the city. Furthermore, we observe changes in the characteristics of manufacturing employment on the west side of the Hu Line between 2010 and 2020, compared to previous years and even decades. These changes are characterised by a significant increase in manufacturing employment and the rapid technology‐driven transformation of cities that have experienced a decline in manufacturing employment.
Evaluation of Two Tension Sensors for Cable‐Driven Parallel Manipulators
Authors: Gonzalez‐Rodriguez Angel G. , Ottaviano Erika , Rea Pierluigi
Published: October 2024

Cable‐driven parallel manipulators (CDPMs) constitute a class of parallel robots in which the frame is connected to the end‐effector through a set of cables. The weight reduction achieved by replacing rigid links with cables, along with their exceptionally large workspace, makes CDPMs suitable for applications such as positioning devices, large surface inspection, motion support systems, and automated storage systems. For effective use in these applications, accurate positioning capabilities are essential, which in turn require accurate measurements of the tension on each cable, and at a sampling rate that is less than or equal to the time constant of the actuator response. This paper first analyses the dynamics of the actuator for an over‐constrained robot and provides concrete values of this constant considering the cable elasticity. Then, it proposes two tension sensors, presents the calibration procedures, and the methodologies to evaluate them in CDPMs so that they can be replicated and subsequently included in another CDPM configuration. They also serve as critical safety devices, continuously monitoring cable tension to detect any operations or situations that are out of range. Ensuring the safe and reliable condition of cables is crucial not only for CDPMs but also for lifting systems, transmission systems, and other mechanical or mechatronic systems that rely on cables.
River Hydrological Regime Changes and Their Attribution: A Case Study in the Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River Using a Multi‐Model Approach
Authors: Wang Hongxiang , Lan Jiaqi , He Ning , Jiao Xuyang , Ye Handong , Sun Chaohui , Wang Gaozhen , Guo Wenxian
Published: October 2024

A comprehensive quantitative evaluation framework was used to analyze the driving factors affecting the hydrological conditions and runoff changes in the upper Yangtze River basin across multiple time scales (annual, seasonal, and monthly). This study focuses on utilizing the LSTM model and the WEP‐L model for the quantitative assessment of factors influencing runoff changes. Additionally, we calculated the IHA indicators for actual runoff and the LSTM model‐simulated runoff and conducted a comparative analysis using the range of variability approach (RVA) to study changes in the overall hydrological regime of the river. Following an abrupt change, the runoff in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River decreased by 6.6%, and the ecological response of the basin showed a negative trend, as reflected in the changes of five sets of hydrological‐ecological indicators. The contributions of various driving forces exhibited significant differences across different time scales. On an annual scale, the LSTM model indicated that runoff was predominantly influenced by human activities with a contribution rate of 55%, whereas the WEP‐L model indicated that climate factors were the dominant influence, with a contribution rate of 75%. On a seasonal scale, the WEP‐L model showed that runoff was more influenced by climate in summer and autumn, with relative contribution rates of 68% and 73%, respectively. Conversely, the LSTM model showed that runoff was more influenced by human activities in summer and winter, with relative contribution rates of 98% and 91%, respectively. On a monthly scale, the situation was more complex. The LSTM model results indicated significant contributions from human activities in May, July, October, and November (76%, 68%, 69%, and 87%, respectively) and slightly higher contributions than climate factors in February and September (51% and 57%, respectively). In the remaining months (13%–95%), climate factors were the primary driving force. The WEP‐L model results indicated significant contributions from land‐use changes in January, February, and May (79%, 74%, and 80%, respectively) and slightly higher contributions than climate factors in December (57%), with climate factors being the primary driving force in the remaining months (20%–92%). The findings of this study provide valuable insights for the ecological protection and restoration of the upper Yangtze River basin.
Dimensions of ethical consumption: A systematic review and future outlook
Authors: R Rohini , Meppurath Daly Paulose
Published: October 2024

UN's sustainable development goals view ethical consumption as a multi‐dimensional construct addressing production and consumption‐related sustainability challenges. The present study is the first to assimilate the five dimensions of ethical consumption—concern for environment, love of organic, preference for fair trade, regard for animal welfare, and anti‐consumption/boycott movements—in a single review. This framework‐based review using Theory‐Context‐Characteristic‐Methods (TCCM) and employing Scientific Procedures and Rationales for Systematic Literature Reviews (SPAR‐4 SLR) protocol, thoroughly synthesizes the state of knowledge, identifies research gaps and proposes directions for future research in ethical consumption. The authors review 123 articles from 2000 to 2024 sourced from SCOPUS by thoroughly examining antecedents, mediators, moderators, outcome variables, and interrelationships for all five dimensions. The authors recommend applying new consumer personality theories instead of familiar frameworks, adopting qualitative methods and longitudinal designs with multicultural and cross‐national focus, and testing novel mediation and moderation mechanisms in clarifying interrelationships.
Feasibility Prediction of Thermally Rearranged Polyimide Membranes with Ionic Liquid Capping for Large‐Scale Industrial Biogas Purification Applications
Authors: Cheng Hongbo , Zou Yonglan , Zhou Junkang , Jia Hongge , Zhang Mingyu , Qu Yanqing , Wang Chaohui , Dong Shaobo , Zang Yu
Published: October 2024

Biogas is a type of biomass energy source, primarily composed of methane and carbon dioxide. It is generated through the controlled anaerobic digestion of manure or other organic residues. As a cleaner alternative to conventional fuels, fully purified biogas can produce approximately 36.68 MJ/m3 of en.ergy. As the separation of CO2/CH4 in biogas became an important part of the energy industry, we used membrane separation technique to study its separation methods. At first, 3,3′‐dihydroxy‐4,4′‐diamino‐biphenyl (HAB) and 4,4′‐(hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphthalic anhydride (6FDA) were polymerized by open‐loop as polyamide acid macromolecules. Then it was divided into two research routes. One was condensation to polyimide (PI) membranes directly and then thermal rearrangement (TR); the other one was ionic liquid (IL) added before condensation and thermal rearrangement. Through adjusting the thermal rearrangement temperature, different modified polyimide membranes were obtained and tested their separation performance of CO2/CH4. For the result of the test, the best one, membrane HAB‐6FDA‐IL‐TR400, could reach a good separation performance as PCO2 = 403.80 Barrer, αCO2/CH4 = 82.35. It was beyond the Robeson's 2019 upper limit and proved that the modification by IL and thermal rearrangement was benefit for the separation performance of polyimide membranes.
Photocatalytic Hydrogen Generation in Surfactant‐Free, Aqueous Organic Nanoparticle Dispersions
Authors: Bruder Jan , Fischer Karen , Armleder Jonas , Müller Erich , Da Roit Nicola , Behrens Silke , Peng Yuman , Wenzel Wolfgang , Röhm Holger , Colsmann Alexander
Published: October 2024

Hydrogen generation in electrostatically stabilized, aqueous organic nanoparticle dispersions is investigated. For this purpose, organic nanoparticle dispersions are synthesized in water by nanoprecipitation from tetrahydrofuran and stabilized by charging through strong molecular electron acceptors. The dispersions are stable for more than 10 weeks on the shelf and during the photocatalytic process, despite the continuous transfer of charges between the reactants. The hydrogen generation in the electrostatically stabilized dispersions outperforms the hydrogen generation in organic nanoparticle dispersions which contain the common stabilizer sodium dodecyl sulfate.
Reprogramming the Tumor Immune Microenvironment Through Activatable Photothermal Therapy and GSH depletion Using Liposomal Gold Nanocages to Potentiate Anti‐Metastatic Immunotherapy
Authors: Li Jiayi , Zheng Kaifan , Lin Luping , Zhang Mengdi , Zhang Ziqi , Chen Junyu , Li Shaoguang , Yao Hong , Liu Ailin , Lin Xinhua , Liu Gang , Chen Bing
Published: October 2024

Cancer immunotherapy offers significant clinical benefits for patients with advanced or metastatic tumors. However, immunotherapeutic efficacy is often hindered by the tumor microenvironment's high redox levels, leading to variable patient outcomes. Herein, a therapeutic liposomal gold nanocage (MGL) is innovatively developed based on photo‐triggered hyperthermia and a releasable strategy by combining a glutathione (GSH) depletion to remodel the tumor immune microenvironment, fostering a more robust anti‐tumor immune response. MGL comprises a thermosensitive liposome shell and a gold nanocage core loaded with maleimide. The flexible shell promotes efficient uptake by cancer cells, enabling targeted destruction through photothermal therapy while triggering immunogenic cell death and the maturation of antigen‐presenting cells. The photoactivated release of maleimide depletes intracellular GSH, increasing tumor cell sensitivity to oxidative stress and thermal damage. Conversely, GSH reduction also diminishes immunosuppressive cell activity, enhances antigen presentation, and activates T cells. Moreover, photothermal immunotherapy decreases elevated levels of heat shock proteins in tumor cells, further increasing their sensitivity to hyperthermia. In summary, MGL elicited a robust systemic antitumor immune response through GSH depletion, facilitating an effective photothermal immunotherapeutic strategy that reprograms the tumor microenvironment and significantly inhibits primary and metastatic tumors. This approach demonstrates considerable translational potential and clinical applicability.
Investigation of Rice Starch Characteristics Under Short Soaking‐Germination Influence
Authors: Oliveira Maria Eugenia Araujo Silva , Bassinello Priscila Zaczuk , Filho José Manoel Colombari , de Carvalho Carlos Wanderlei Piler , Takeiti Cristina Yoshie
Published: October 2024

Soaking and germination are processes used to improve nutritional characteristics in rice especially concerning γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) and phenolic compounds. In contrast, during these processes the activation of enzymes may affect the rice starch. Hence, the current investigation aims to understand the impact of soaking and germination processes on starch structure in terms of morphological, texture, physicochemical and gelatinization properties of non‐germinated rice starch (NGRS), soaked rice starch (SRS), and germinated rice starch (GRS). It is observed that soaking and germination cause changes in granule surface and reduce relative crystallinity (27.40–26.08 and 27.40–25.65%) and enthalpy (9.69–8.81 and 9.69–8.37%) compared with NGRS. Unexpectedly, germination affects the gel strength during cooling showing an increase of maximum peak force (0.28 N), demonstrating that the gel of GRS is firmer than NGRS and SRS. The findings are useful to provide bases for utilization of soaked and germinated rice starches in developing products for the food industry.
Trio/hybrid fiber effect on the geopolymer reinforced concrete for flexural and shear behavior
Authors: Bayrak Barış
Published: October 2024

Geopolymer concrete (GC) is an innovative and sustainable type of composite resulting from the chemical reaction between waste materials containing and alkaline activators. The researchers have been focused to reduction of the greenhouse‐gas release, especially during the production of cement. Although numerous studies have been conducted on alkali‐activated cement or GC at the material level, there is limited research in the literature on the structural performance of reinforced GC members. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of fiber combination on the shear and flexural performance of RC beams with maximum and minimum reinforcement ratio. To investigate the shear and flexural behavior of GC beam, four‐point and three‐point tests were performed on 12 GC with hybrid fibers, 4 GC with trio fibers, and 2 GC fiber‐free as references beams. The test parameters were the combination of fibers (steel, glass, carbon, and basalt), the longitudinal reinforcement ratio, and loading type. The key test results include the load‐deflection behavior, characteristics of the cracks, the effect of fiber type on the shear and flexural performance, ductility and stiffness properties, microstructure, the strain in the concrete, and the bars and code predictions. The test results showed that as expected, reducing the longitudinal reinforcement ratio decreased the strength, but the decrease in strength was tolerated by using different types of fibers. The use of trio fibers in beams under bending increased the strength capacity, considerably. Finally, the capacity prediction performance of current codes, that is, GB50010, EuroCode‐2, TS500, and ACI318, were also examined, and the calculations resulted that the current code equations had a percentage error of approximately 25% and 82% on average for flexural and shear, respectively, although EuroCode‐2 equations performed slightly better.
Experimental research on the flexural behavior of Basalt fiber‐reinforced polymer (BFRP) and steel bars hybrid reinforced concrete beams
Authors: Wei Bingyan , He Xiongjun , Chen Tao , Wu Chao , Wang Huayi
Published: October 2024

To investigate the flexural behavior of hybrid reinforced concrete (Hybrid‐RC) beams with Basalt fiber‐reinforced polymer (BFRP) bars and steel bars, this paper designed 14 Hybrid‐RC beams and studied the effect of different reinforcement forms on the flexural behavior of Hybrid‐RC beams. The research results indicated that when , an increase in leads to a decrease in the cracking moment, ultimate moment, and ductility of Hybrid‐RC beams, the maximum crack width and deflection will increase. When , an increase in will lead to a decrease in the cracking moment, deflection, and ductility of the Hybrid‐RC beams, while the maximum crack width and ultimate moment will increase. In addition, when , the area of BFRP bars (the area of steel bars remains unchanged) should be changed to improve the flexural behavior of the Hybrid‐RC beams; When , the Hybrid‐RC beams should change the area of steel bars (the area of BFRP bars remains unchanged) to improve the flexural behavior of the beams. In addition, the ductility index prediction equation for Hybrid (BFRP and steel)‐RC beams was fitted based on the results of the theoretical model research.
Equivalent damping ratios of nonclassically damped structures composed of two substructures along the height by using equivalent two‐degree‐of‐freedom systems
Authors: Saadatkhah Amir , Chenaghlou Mohammad Reza , Poursha Mehdi
Published: October 2024

The nonconventional damping properties of structures, composed of two substructures with different damping ratios along the height, make an exact seismic analysis very complex. Determining an equivalent damping ratio for such structures makes the time‐history analysis (THA) possible through conventional analysis methods. In this study, this issue is addressed using a novel analytical method that computes the equivalent damping ratios of arbitrary mixed structures composed of two different parts with arbitrary damping ratios. The accuracy of the method is verified by two studies already published in the technical literature that are based on the semiempirical analysis methods. Furthermore, the method is applied to two vertically irregular 15‐story frames composed of steel and reinforced concrete substructures. The seismic responses obtained from the THA using the proposed equivalent damping ratios are compared with those from the THA performed on the main structure with a nonclassical damping matrix. The latter analysis is implemented in the state space as a benchmark solution. The results indicate that the proposed formula generates accurate seismic responses. The advantages of the proposed analytical method are its ease of use, accuracy, and the capacity of application to arbitrary mixed structures composed of two parts with arbitrary damping ratios.
Se‐Methylselenocysteine Ameliorates DEHP‐Induced Ferroptosis in Testicular Sertoli Cells via the Nrf2/GPX4 Axis
Authors: Mao Weilin , Liu Yan , Gu Wei , Xu Wenchao , Liu Jihong , Ling Qing , Wang Jiaxin
Published: October 2024

Di (2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is an important plasticizer in industrial production, and its toxic effects on testes are widely recognized. Se‐methylselenocysteine (SMC) is a major selenium compound found in selenium‐rich plants, which possesses unique biological properties such as antioxidants. However, the effect of SMC on DEHP‐induced testicular injury and the specific mechanism remains unknown. In this study, 50 mice were randomly divided into 5 groups and were given corn oil (Control), DEHP, low‐dose SMC (L‐SMC), moderate‐dose SMC (M‐SMC), or high‐dose SMC (H‐SMC). The sperm quality of the mice in each group was determined, and HE staining and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were applied to observe testicular morphology, and testicular tissues were collected for the subsequent molecular biological analyses. The TM4 cell line was applied in vitro for mechanism validation. Our results showed that DEHP could lead to decreased sperm quality and blood–testis barrier damage in mice, which could be alleviated by SMC. Mitochondrial damage accompanied by accumulation of total iron content, MDA, and 4‐HNE, as well as downregulation of antioxidants SOD, GSH, and GSH‐Px were observed after DEHP treatment, which exhibited a typical ferroptosis feature. In vitro experiments confirmed that SMC promoted upregulation of GPX4 in TM4 cells and was able to alleviate DEHP metabolite MEHP‐induced ferroptosis and promote the expression of cell junction key proteins ZO‐1, Occludin, and Connexin 43, which could be inhibited by the GPX4 inhibitor RSL3 or the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385. Overall, the above results suggest that SMC ameliorates the DEHP‐induced ferroptosis in testicular Sertoli cells, protects the blood–testis barrier, and prevents sperm aberrations via the Nrf2/GPX4 axis.
Oral lymphoma with features of anaplastic large T‐cell lymphoma treated as an erosive and ulcerative stomatitis in a pony horse
Authors: Novotny Ladislav , Bezdekova Barbora
Published: October 2024

Lymphoma is the most common malignant haemolymphatic neoplasm in the horse, with a predominance of multicentric T‐cell‐rich large B‐cell lymphoma. Anaplastic large T‐cell lymphoma is a rare subtype of T‐cell lymphoma characterised by presence of atypical neoplastic lymphoid cells with kidney‐shaped or horseshoe‐shaped nuclei. This case report describes an unusual presentation of a lymphoma with morphological and immunohistological features of an anaplastic large T‐cell lymphoma with oral mucosal involvement in a horse that was originally presented with erosive to ulcerative stomatitis.
Consideration of Restoration in Yaw Resonance
Authors: Sakai Hideki
Published: October 2024

Yaw resonances cause the rear-end of the vehicle to swing, which is related to the feeling of handling. As a basis for improving this motion, this paper considers the restoration of yaw resonance. The equilibrium position of the yaw resonance is the extension of the velocity vector at the “heading point,” where the vehicle median line is perpendicular to the turning radius in a steady state turn. Toward this position, the center of percussion at the rear-end of the vehicle travels. This travel is the restoration of yaw. Observing the vehicle behavior from the earth-fixed coordinate system at the moment when the heading point changes direction of travel, the heading point and the center of percussion travel in their respective directions. Each motion continues for a distance from the rear wheel to the heading point to reach the equilibrium position. This continues time equals “yaw lead time constant.” Therefore, when the yaw lead time constant is small, the vehicle is restored in a short time.
Testing Urban Interaction Scenarios Between Automated Vehicles and Vulnerable Road Users Using a Vehicle-in-The-Loop Test Bench and a Motion Laboratory
Authors: Kaiser Michael , Otto Lisa Marie , Müller Steffen , Hartwecker André , Schyr Christian
Published: October 2024

For testing and analyzing urban vehicle-pedestrian or vehicle-bicyclist interactions as realistically and safely as possible, new types of test environments are required. This paper presents and analyzes a test environment in which a Vehicle-in-the-Loop test bench is combined with a motion laboratory. In this test setup, a real automated vehicle can interact with a human pedestrian or cyclist in a virtual test field in the same way as in real road traffic. Employing a walking platform ensures that the pedestrian’s range of movement is not restricted during the test. This test environment is used to stimulate vehicle perception with a pedestrian avatar animated by a test subject. The test results are compared with measurements taken with a human pedestrian in reality, and strengths and weaknesses of the approach are discussed.