bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lions select larger prey in a Central African protected area with increasingly effective management
Authors: Fraticelli Chiara , Zayed Abdoulaye Abakar , Leirs Herwig , Bauer Hans
Published: July 2024

Lions and their prey are threatened across most of their range and especially in West and Central Africa. Prey availability influences carnivore densities, social structure, prey preference and home ranges, and changes in prey are important for carnivore management. Scarcity of large prey in many West and Central African ecosystems has been described as leading to a preference for hunting smaller prey in smaller groups. Here we investigated the changes in prey selection of lions in Zakouma National Park (Chad), a protected area in Central Africa that showed significant recovery in wildlife numbers, by collecting feeding data through observations of lions on kills during monitoring drives and GPS cluster points of lion collars. Compared to similar data collected prior to this significant recovery, lions preferred larger prey and fed in larger groups. Our results show that diet shifts due to prey losses can be reversed with restoration of prey populations thanks to improved management, and we speculate that this may be true across large carnivores and across regions.
Formation of Titanosilicate N,N‐dialkyl Carbamates by CO2 Insertion into the [(tBuO)3SiO]3TiNR2 Scaffold
Authors: Pérez‐Pérez Jovana , Gallardo‐Garibay Alfonso , Martínez‐Otero Diego , Hernández‐Balderas Uvaldo , Jancik Vojtech
Published: July 2024

Molecular titanosilicates {(tBuO3)3SiO}2Ti(NR2)2 (1, R=Et; 2, R=Me) and {(tBuO3)3SiO}3TiNR2 (TSA1, R=Et; 3, R=Me) were obtained from the reaction between silanol (tBuO3)3SiOH (S1) and titanium amides Ti(NR2)4 (R=Et, R=Me). Additionally, the reaction of 3 and TSA1 with CO2 led to the exclusive formation of carbamates {(tBuO)3SiO}3Ti(O2CNR2) (4, R=Et; 5, R=Me). The molecular structure of 5 confirmed the proposed connectivity and presence of SiO4 and Ti(O2CNR2) units. In compound 4, titanium is coordinated to five oxygen atoms belonging to one bidentate carbamate group and three silicate ligands in a distorted square‐base pyramidal geometry. Also, we have performed DFT calculations and QTAIM analysis to study the distribution of the electron density in the carbamate {(tBuO)3SiO}3Ti(O2CNEt2) (4) and salt {(tBuO)3SiO}3TiO(H2NMe2) 6 which was obtained by the hydrolysis of compound 5.
Disclosures 14: Do you have to keep records of disclosures? Two instances
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: July 2024

Last month, we took a look at FERPA's recordkeeping requirements when we make a disclosure of education records. Those requirements are found at 34 CFR §99.32. It is clear from §99.32 that you do not have to make a record of every education record disclosure we make. This recordkeeping requirement depends on (1) why the education records are to be disclosed (the legitimate interest) and (2) to whom the disclosure is made.
The SPPO Complaint Process
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: July 2024

If a postsecondary student believes their college or university violated their rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, the student has a right to file a complaint with the Student Privacy Policy office.
Feasibility analysis of hybrid photovoltaic, wind, and fuel cell systems for on–off‐grid applications: A case study of housing project in Bangladesh
Authors: Anjum Tahsin , Parvez Mahmud M. A. , Kumar Laveet , El Haj Assad Mamdouh , Ehyaei M. A.
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the viability of hybrid photovoltaic (PV), wind, and fuel cell (FC) systems for on‐grid and off‐grid operations for the Ashrayan‐3 housing project in Bangladesh, with an increased focus on sustainable energy solutions. Motivated by the issue of the delivery of proper and sustainable energy services to remote locations, we conducted an extensive analysis of load demand and found that an average daily demand of 46,176.65 kWh exists, with a peak load of 4852.8 kW. In this research, the HOMER software has been used to make a simulation of five different hybrid system configurations with differing mixes of renewable technologies. From the analyses, the systems based 100% on renewable resources suffer more initial capital costs, with a total net present cost increase of up to 20%, in comparison to conventional systems. On the other hand, the systems give much lower operational costs and cost of energies (COEs) of a minimum of $0.0253/kWh, reported from the on‐grid PV‐based system. On the other hand, the off‐grid PV–FC–wind turbine system showed a COE of $0.286/kWh, along with a decrease in CO2 emissions by about 15,000 kg/year, showing a 30% decrease, compared with on‐grid systems. The results form a basis for the conclusion that such hybrid renewable energy systems are both economically and environmentally feasible. They can reduce COEs by up to 70% in off‐grid systems. This proves that the quality of life and energy security in developing regions will be highly increased, supporting the goals of sustainable development.
Analysis of carbon‐14 discharges from Korean nuclear power plants
Authors: Kim Hwapyoung , Kong Tae Young , Kim Seongjun , Son Jinho , Song Changju , Kim Jiung , Kim Hee Geun
Published: July 2024

The routine practice accompanying the operation of nuclear facilities involves the discharge of radioactive effluents from nuclear power plants (NPPs). Regulation of this discharge to the environment hinges on three criteria: radioactivity concentration, public dose, and radioactivity. Among these, radioactive carbon‐14 holds particular significance as it possesses an extensive half‐life of 5730 years, making it a primary source of radiation dose to communities residing around NPPs. In Korea, the monitoring of carbon‐14 discharges from pressurized water reactors (PWRs) in gaseous effluents has been ongoing since 2012, whereas before 2012, monitoring exclusively focused on carbon‐14 discharges from pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs). Analysis of carbon‐14 discharges from Korean PHWRs indicates that their emission constituted less than 1% of total radioactive effluents over the past two decades. In the context of Korean PWRs, carbon‐14 discharge monitoring was absent from 2002 to 2011, resulting in an absence of data regarding such discharges during that period. After introducing carbon‐14 discharge monitoring in gaseous effluents from Korean PWRs, emissions from 2012 to 2021 contributed 3% of the total gaseous effluents. These findings indicate that despite being the primary contributor to public dose, carbon‐14 discharges from NPPs constitute a minor portion of the radioactive effluent discharge.
Proposal of database of radiological characterization for decommissioning nuclear power plants
Authors: Kim Seongjun , Kong Tae Young , Son Jinho , Song Changju , Kim Jiung , Park Jaeok , Kim Hee Geun
Published: July 2024

In Korea, Kori Unit 1 was permanently closed in 2017 and scheduled for decommissioning. Kori Unit 1 is currently scheduled to undergo system decontamination and to be decommissioned by December 2038. Measures to properly control and remove radiological hazards must be established to go through decommissioning a nuclear power plant (NPP). Radiological characterization must precede NPP decommissioning. Radiological characterization generates a lot of data during this process. The consistency of radiological characterization data is important for systematically decommissioning NPPs. However, the data generated from radiological characterization may not be systematically managed because a database of radiological characterizations for Kori Unit 1 has not been properly established. Therefore, this study has proposed a database to be filled during radiological characterization in terms of occupational radiation exposure of personnel and decommissioning waste safety using key performance indicators presented by the International Atomic Energy Agency. From the perspective of occupational exposure, databases have been proposed for operational history investigations, decommissioning source term calculations, and investigation of the level of radiological contamination. From the perspective of the safety of decommissioning waste, databases were proposed for operational history investigation, decommissioning source term calculation, investigation of the level of radiological contamination, and investigation of radiological characteristics of decommissioning waste.
TiO2 nanoparticles: Green synthesis and their role in lessening the damage of Colletotrichum graminicola in sorghum
Authors: Nabi Ghulam , Anjum Tehmina , Aftab Zill‐e‐Huma , Rizwana Humaira , Akram Waheed
Published: July 2024

Fungal pathogens pose a persistent threat to crop plants, risking global food security. Anthracnose of sorghum caused by Colletotrichum graminicola causes a considerable loss in sorghum production. This study aimed to manage the anthracnose disease in sorghum using green‐synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles using pomegranate peel and to assess their impacts on the agroeconomic attributes of sorghum. Synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles showed strong dose‐dependent antifungal activity against C. graminicola and significantly reduced mycelial radial growth, comparable to commercial fungicides. Foliar application of TiO2 at concentrations of 150 and 200 ppm reduced the disease index >60% in pot trials. Additionally, the effect of TiO2 NPs on the growth and yield of sorghum plants and the possible mechanism(s) behind the suppression of anthracnose disease were deciphered. TiO2 NPs also improved shoot and root length, biomass accumulation, penile size, number of grains, and grain weight in sorghum plants infected with C. graminicola. Application of TiO2 NPs significantly increased the content of defense‐related biochemicals, including total phenolic contents, activities of defense‐related enzymes (PO, PPO, and PAL), photosynthetic pigments (total chlorophyll contents and carotenoids), and total protein contents. Collectively, our study verified the potential of green‐synthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles to suppress anthracnose disease by activating a defense system and stimulating growth and yield promotion under pathogen stress.
Effects of fermentation time, baking, and storage on ochratoxin A levels in sourdough flat bread
Authors: Özdemir Nazlı , Gül Hülya
Published: July 2024

Ochratoxin A (OTA), which is one of the most important mycotoxins in terms of human health, can be found in cereal products such as bread, “bazlama” (traditional flatbread), and pita bread, as well as cereals such as wheat, barley, and corn. This study aimed to determine the effect of different fermentation times, baking, and storage for various periods on the presence of OTA in sourdough bazlama. Bazlama flour was contaminated with OTA concentrations of 5 and 10 μg/kg. After two different fermentation times (1.5 and 3 h), baking at 300 ± 5°C, and storage at room temperature (25 ± 2°C) for 0, 5, and 10 days, the change in OTA levels of bazlama samples was determined by the high‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detector (HPLC‐FLD) method. The effect of different storage periods on the presence of OTA is insignificant. Although a general decrease in OTA level has been determined, it has been found that long‐term fermentation (at least 3 h) was more effective, especially in flours with a high concentration (10 μg/kg) of OTA contamination. It has been determined that bazlama made from contaminated flours with OTA levels of 5 and 10 μg/kg contained OTA levels exceeding 3 μg/kg when long‐term fermentation was not used. This is the maximum permitted limit set by the Turkish Food Codex and the European Commission, indicating that it is not suitable for consumption in this position.
Automated diffusion‐weighted image analysis along the perivascular space index reveals glymphatic dysfunction in association with brain parenchymal lesions
Authors: Li Wen‐Xin , Liu Zi‐Yue , Zhai Fei‐Fei , Han Fei , Li Ming‐Li , Zhou Li‐Xin , Ni Jun , Yao Ming , Zhang Shu‐Yang , Cui Li‐Ying , Jin Zheng‐Yu , Zhu Yi‐Cheng
Published: July 2024

Brain glymphatic dysfunction is critical in neurodegenerative processes. While animal studies have provided substantial insights, understandings in humans remains limited. Recent attention has focused on the non‐invasive evaluation of brain glymphatic function. However, its association with brain parenchymal lesions in large‐scale population remains under‐investigated. In this cross‐sectional analysis of 1030 participants (57.14 ± 9.34 years, 37.18% males) from the Shunyi cohort, we developed an automated pipeline to calculate diffusion‐weighted image analysis along the perivascular space (ALPS), with a lower ALPS value indicating worse glymphatic function. The automated ALPS showed high consistency with the manual calculation of this index (ICC = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.662–0.898). We found that those with older age and male sex had lower automated ALPS values (β = −0.051, SE = 0.004, p < .001, per 10 years, and β = −0.036, SE = 0.008, p < .001, respectively). White matter hyperintensity (β = −2.458, SE = 0.175, p < .001) and presence of lacunes (OR = 0.004, 95% CI < 0.002–0.016, p < .001) were significantly correlated with decreased ALPS. The brain parenchymal and hippocampal fractions were significantly associated with decreased ALPS (β = 0.067, SE = 0.007, p < .001 and β = 0.040, SE = 0.014, p = .006, respectively) independent of white matter hyperintensity. Our research implies that the automated ALPS index is potentially a valuable imaging marker for the glymphatic system, deepening our understanding of glymphatic dysfunction.
A mobile‐based self‐care application for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A protocol for design, implementation, and evaluation
Authors: Haghparast Atefeh , Okhovvat Morteza , Khoddam Homeira , Khandashpour Mahmoud , Kolagari Shohreh
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Education and providing self‐care skills are essential for patients with chronic respiratory disease. Today, the use of information and communication technologies has provided many opportunities for facilitating self‐care in chronic patients. In this regard, the attention of researchers has been shifted toward the design and use of mobile phone‐based technologies for self‐care purposes in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In this study, a protocol is proposed for the design, implementation, and evaluation of a mobile‐based self‐care application for patients with COPD.

Methods

The design science approach will be used in the design, implementation, and evaluation of the self‐care application. This solution‐oriented paradigm goes beyond the level of description and explanation and takes steps toward problem‐solving. One of the most common models of design science is the waterfall model of information technology development. The seven consecutive stages of the waterfall model include preliminary analysis, system analysis, design, programming, testing, implementation, and maintenance/modification.

Conclusion

The present protocol is the first to design, implement, and evaluate a mobile‐based self‐care application for patients with COPD in Iran. The integration of new technologies for the self‐care education of COPD patients is considered an innovative strategy. This application is designed based on the self‐care needs of COPD patients, which will ultimately promote the self‐care activities of patients.
Self‐Gated Radial Free‐Breathing Liver MR Elastography: Assessment of Technical Performance in Children at 3 T
Authors: Kafali Sevgi Gokce , Bolster Bradley D. , Shih Shu‐Fu , Delgado Timoteo I. , Deshpande Vibhas , Zhong Xiaodong , Adamos Timothy R. , Ghahremani Shahnaz , Calkins Kara L. , Wu Holden H.
Published: July 2024

Background

Conventional liver magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) requires breath‐holding (BH) to avoid motion artifacts, which is challenging for children. While radial free‐breathing (FB)‐MRE is an alternative for quantifying liver stiffness (LS), previous methods had limitations of long scan times, acquiring two slices in 5 minutes, and not resolving motion during reconstruction.

Purpose

To reduce FB‐MRE scan time to 4 minutes for four slices and to investigate the impact of self‐gated (SG) motion compensation on FB‐MRE LS quantification in terms of agreement, intrasession repeatability, and technical quality compared to conventional BH‐MRE.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Twenty‐six children without fibrosis (median age: 12.9 years, 15 females).

Field Strength/Sequence

3 T; Cartesian gradient‐echo (GRE) BH‐MRE, research application radial GRE FB‐MRE.

Assessment

Participants were scanned twice to measure repeatability, without moving the table or changing the participants' position. LS was measured in areas of the liver with numerical confidence ≥90%. Technical quality was examined using measurable liver area (%).

Statistical Tests

Agreement of LS between BH‐MRE and FB‐MRE was evaluated using Bland–Altman analysis for SG acceptance rates of 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%. LS repeatability was assessed using within‐subject coefficient of variation (wCV). The differences in LS and measurable liver area were examined using Kruskal–Wallis and Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

FB‐MRE with 60% SG achieved the closest agreement with BH‐MRE (mean difference 0.00 kPa). The LS ranged from 1.70 to 1.83 kPa with no significant differences between BH‐MRE and FB‐MRE with varying SG rates (P = 0.52). All tested methods produced repeatable LS with wCV from 4.4% to 6.5%. The median measurable liver area was smaller for FB‐MRE (32%–45%) than that for BH‐MRE (91%–93%) (P < 0.05).

Data Conclusion

FB‐MRE with 60% SG can quantify LS with close agreement and comparable repeatability with respect to BH‐MRE in children.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Minimal Detectable Change of Cough and Lingual Strength Outcomes in Neurodegenerative Disease
Authors: Borders James C. , Troche Michelle S.
Published: July 2024

Objective

Minimal detectable change (MDC) represents the smallest amount of change required for an outcome to be considered real and not merely due to measurement error or task variability. This study aimed to examine MDC for cough and lingual strength outcomes among individuals with neurodegenerative disease.

Methods

In a single session, individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and cerebellar ataxia completed repeated measurements of voluntary sequential cough via spirometry (n = 143) and lingual isometric and swallowing pressure with the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (n = 231). The MDC at the 95% confidence level was calculated with the following formula: MDC = 1.96 × √2 × SEM.

Results

MDC for cough strength was 0.52 L/s (PD), 0.57 L/s (PSP), and 0.20 L/s (ataxia). On trials with the same number of coughs, MDC for cough strength was 0.18 L/s in PD and 0.24 L/s in ataxia. MDC for lingual isometric pressure was 5.44 kPa (PD), 2.35 kPa (PSP), and 3.41 kPa (ataxia), whereas swallowing pressure was 5.60 kPa (PD), 2.97 kPa (PSP), and 7.34 kPa (ataxia).

Conclusions

These findings elucidate MDC for cough and lingual strength outcomes and expand our understanding of change that can be considered “real” and not merely due to task variability. MDC facilitates valid interpretations of changes following treatment, as well as power analyses to determine the smallest effect size of interest before data collection. To illustrate the application of MDC, we situate these findings in the context of hypothetical case studies and research studies.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:5034–5040, 2024
Hydrogel Based UV Photodetector Based on Polarization of Free Water Molecules
Authors: Liu Chang , Bo Yujiao , Ge Qi , Novoselov Kostya S. , Lin Shisheng
Published: July 2024

Conductive hydrogels retain the intrinsic softness and elasticity that are hallmark features of traditional hydrogels, and they also assimilate the electrical properties of the embedded conductive materials. Conventional epitaxial growth techniques for heterojunctions require precise lattice matching between adjacent materials, significantly limiting technological advancements in photodetector innovation. The integration of conductive hydrogels with semiconductors to fabricate photodetectors presents a feasible solution that bypasses the traditional lattice matching constraints inherent in the epitaxial growth of heterojunction semiconductor photodetectors. Herein, device integration is enhanced by developing a transparent conductive hydrogel, positioned between graphene and gallium nitride, which effectively mitigates the fluidity issues of the polar liquid complicating device encapsulation. A comprehensive analysis of the photodetection characteristics of the graphene/conductive hydrogel/gallium nitride heterostructure is conducted, thereby establishing its structural framework. Flexible transparent devices are further prepared based on PEDOT/Alg (Ca2+) and demonstrate their potential application in 360° omnidirectional photodetection. This work introduces a novel approach for the enhanced integration of hydrogel‐based spectrally selective and flexible transparent photodetectors.
They forgot me! The exclusionary effects among complaining consumers when others receive a response
Authors: Ben Zhiying , Shukla Paurav
Published: July 2024

Complaint management is often considered a significant cost center, and it may be difficult for companies to treat all complainers equally in physical settings where complainers can observe each other's treatment. How do complainers feel when other complainers receive a response from the company, but they do not? We introduce and conceptualize a complainer exclusion construct that incorporates the complainer's observation of theirs and other complainers' treatment. Drawing on the theory of ostracism, three studies employing varying industry and complaint settings, reveal that perceptions of exclusion underpin complainers' re‐complaining intentions (Study 1). Moreover, this effect is intensified when earlier complainers witness the later complainers receive a response, suggesting temporal order of complaints as an important boundary condition (Study 2). Contrarily, shifting complainers' primary focus away from the unpleasant experience through a distraction weakens the re‐complaining intentions among complainers feeling exclusion (Study 3). This research has significant implications for managing complaint management systems, avoiding perceived exclusion among complainers, and effectively reducing the likelihood of worse outcomes for all stakeholders.
Lignin‐Based Carbon Fiber/Epoxy Resin Biocomposites with Excellent Fire Resistance and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Sun Benhui , Liu Yuhan , Li Jingwei , Liu Chengzhe , Liu Zechi , Zhao Xiaojie , Liu Baijun , Hu Wei , Liu Xiaobo
Published: July 2024

Carbon fiber (CF)‐reinforced epoxy resin (EP) composites are lightweight materials with excellent comprehensive performance. However, the flammability of EP and the poor interfacial bonding between CF and EP are two key disadvantages that limit their further applications. Here, a kind of water‐soluble lignin‐based CF sizing agent (ELBEDK) is prepared through hydrophilic modification of enzymatic lignin, which can significantly enhance the interfacial interaction between CF and EP. Additionally, a highly efficient intumescent flame retardant (LMA) is prepared. The EP, enzymatic lignin, LMA and CF sized ELBEDK are compounded to obtain the fire‐safety CF reinforced composites (SCF/FEP/L). The flame retardancy of SCF/FEP/L with 7% LMA (SCF/FEP7) reached V‐0 rating. Moreover, SCF/FEP/L with 7% LMA and 15% lignin (SCF/FEP7/L15) present an limiting oxygen index (LOI)of 30.2% and V‐0 of UL‐94. Specifically, the total smoke production and the heat release rate are 47.8% and 46.81% lower than that of SCF/EP, respectively, indicating the improved smoke suppression and flame retardancy. The IFSS and flexural strength of SCF/FEP7/L15 are improved to be 59.4 MPa and 511.1 MPa, respectively. This study presents a simple approach to fabricate low‐cost high performance lignin‐based flame retardant CF/EP biocomposites with wide application potential.
Elliptic equations in weak oscillatory thin domains: Beyond periodicity with boundary‐concentrated reaction terms
Authors: Barbosa Pricila S. , Villanueva‐Pesqueira Manuel
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we analyze the limit behavior of a family of solutions of the Laplace operator with homogeneous Neumann boundary conditions, set in a two‐dimensional thin domain that presents weak oscillations on both boundaries and with terms concentrated in a narrow oscillating neighborhood of the top boundary. The aim of this problem is to study the behavior of the solutions as the thin domain presents oscillatory behaviors beyond the classical periodic assumptions,including scenarios such as quasi‐periodic or almost‐periodic oscillations. We then prove that the family of solutions converges to the solution of a one‐dimensional limit equation capturing the geometry and oscillatory behavior of boundary of the domain and the narrow strip where the concentration terms take place. In addition, we include a series of numerical experiments illustrating the theoretical results obtained in the quasi‐periodic context.
Neural network Kantorovich operators activated by smooth ramp functions
Authors: Agrawal Purshottam N. , Baxhaku Behar
Published: July 2024

In the present article, we introduce a Kantorovich variant of the neural network interpolation operators activated by smooth ramp functions proposed by Qian and Yu (2022). We discuss the convergence of these operators in the spaces,
and
, and establish some direct approximation theorems. Further, we derive the converse results by means of Berens–Lorentz lemma and Peetre's K‐functional. We present a multivariate version of the aforementioned Kantorovich neural network interpolation operators and investigate the direct and converse results in the continuous and
, spaces.
Enhancing the photostability and mechanical properties of poly‐lactic acid (PLA) composites with glutaric acid functionalized titanium dioxide (TiO2)
Authors: Peña‐Juarez M. G. , Balderas B. A. Velázquez , Almendarez‐Camarillo A. , Gutierrez‐Castañeda E. J. , López‐Zamora L. , Gonzalez‐Calderon J. A.
Published: July 2024

The performance of Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composites reinforced with functionalized titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles in rutile and anatase crystalline phases were systematically investigated. The results underline that the incorporation of TiO2, regardless of its crystalline structure, significantly enhances PLA's crystallinity by 85%. Notably, rutile TiO2, when functionalized with higher glutaric acid concentrations, was an effective crystallinity booster by 95%, passing from 20.39% to 39.58% crystallinity for the PLA/TiO2 R20 + 10% system. Furthermore, this research elucidates that the selection between anatase and rutile phases plays a vital role in the photostabilization. Functionalized Rutile TiO2 exhibited exceptional UV resistance, effectively inhibiting photodegradation; for example, after 15 days of exposure, the functionalized systems exhibited a 497.6% improvement for PLA/TiO2 R10 + 5% (22.1 ± 2.5 MPa), while the PLA/TiO2 R10 + 5% showed an 85.1% increase in composite stiffness (35.5 ± 3.5 MPa) after 7 days of degradation, in comparison with pristine PLA (19.2 ± 2.9 MPa). Anatase, conversely, displayed varying effects depending on concentration, acting as a stabilizer at lower levels and a promoter of degradation at higher concentrations. This knowledge enables the precise modifying of PLA composites for specific applications, balancing crystallinity, mechanical properties, and UV resistance for a diverse array of applications.

Highlights

TiO2 enhances photostability in PLA confirming its potential as a UV stabilizer.

Comparing anatase and rutile phase: Unveiling PLA composite dynamics.

Glutaric acid on TiO2 enhances PLA composite strength significantly.

Optimal acid concentration key to composite performance.

Tailored PLA composites balance crystallinity, mechanics, and UV resistance.
Examining school crisis plan components using the comprehensive crisis plan checklist—Second edition
Authors: Aspiranti Kathleen B. , McCleary Daniel F. , Ebner Sara , Blake Jessica , Biggs Lauren E. , Rios Reggie N.
Published: July 2024

Creating a plan for crisis prevention, intervention, and postvention procedures allows schools to prepare for the traumatic consequences when a crisis inevitably occurs. The comprehensive crisis plan checklist—second edition (CCPC‐2; McCleary & Aspiranti, 2020) is a 102‐item tool created for evaluating individual school and district crisis plans. The current study examined existing crisis plans from school districts across the United States to determine the amount and type of CCPC‐2 items that are present within school crisis plans. The number of CCPC‐2 items represented on the 73 plans evaluated ranged from 0 to 67 with a mean of 22.29 items. The average number of plans that included a single item on the CCPC‐2 was 16. There were no significant differences in the number of CCPC‐2 items represented across different geographic locations, urbanicity (urban, suburban, rural), or district/school‐level plan type. Discussion focuses on how crisis teams within the schools can use the CCPC‐2 when creating, reviewing, or revising their district‐ or school‐level crisis plan.
Economic analysis of crop protection strategies: comparing the value of increased fungicide inputs and crop genetic improvement in managing Ascochyta blight in Australian chickpeas
Authors: Olita Toto , Cao Zhanglong , Gibberd Mark
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Genetic improvement of crop varieties requires significant investment. Therefore, varieties must be developed to suit a broad range of breeding targets, such as yield and suitability to rainfall zones, farm management practices and quality traits. In the case of breeding for disease resistance, breeders need to consider the value of genetic improvement relative to other disease management strategies and the dynamics of pathogen genetic and phenotypic diversity. This study uses a benefit–cost analysis framework to assess the economic value of fungicide management and crop genetic improvement in disease resistance for Australian chickpea varieties.

RESULTS

When assessing the likelihood of growers switching to new crop varieties with improved genetic resistance to disease, the simulation results reveal that adopting these varieties yielded higher net benefit values compared to implementing current fungicide strategies across all rainfall zones. On average, the increase in net benefit varied between 2.6% and 3.5%. Conversely, when we examined the scenario involving modifying the current fungicide strategy, we observed that, on average, switching from the current fungicide management strategy to one which involved additional fungicides was beneficial in about 73% of the cases.

CONCLUSION

Our analysis reveals the importance of factors such as commodity prices, production costs, disease‐related variables and risk aversion in determining the economic benefits of adopting new crop protection strategies. Furthermore, the research reveals the need for accessible information and reliable data sources when evaluating the benefits of new agricultural technologies. This would assist growers in making informed and sustainable disease management decisions. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Handles with Reentrant Cells for Use as Oar Handles: Design Considerations, Physical Characteristics, and End‐Users’ Perceptions
Authors: Grima‐Cornish James N. , Attard Daphne , Gatt Alfred , Ficarra Giovanni , Cerasola Dario , Saliba Thorne Claire , Albanozzo Andrew , Albanozzo Paul , Gatt Ruben , Formosa Cynthia , Grima Joseph N
Published: July 2024

Rowing is a sport that requires athletes to perform the action of pulling and rotating an oar by hand, applying forces of considerable magnitude. Herein, inspired by the notion that auxetic materials and metamaterials behave differently compared to their conventional counterparts, it is examined how a handle prototype, specifically designed to incorporate the classic re‐entrant motif, behaves and how end‐users perceive it. Physical experiments conducted on such prototype, which measured the contact pressures, suggest that on average, higher pressures are measured when pulling with this reentrant grip compared to its non reentrant counterpart, indicating that this re‐entrant prototype should feel firmer. More importantly, respondents of a survey are asked to give their feedback, and different views on which handle they would prefer to use are provided. The ones who preferred the prototype with the reentrant features report that they preferred it because it felt firmer and allowed for a better grip. This suggests that there is potential for further investigation into whether handles, oar handles in particular, made from auxetic components, re‐entrant cells, or other motifs which are well known for their negative Poisson's ratio characteristics, could provide a better and more secure grip and be used in sports applications.
Grey‐zone simulations of shallow‐to‐deep convection transition using dynamic subgrid‐scale turbulence models
Authors: Efstathiou Georgios A. , Plant Robert S. , Chow Fotini Katopodes
Published: July 2024

We examine the ability of two dynamic turbulence closure models to simulate the diurnal development of convection and the transition from dry to shallow cumuli and then to deep convection. The dynamic models are compared with the conventional Smagorinsky scheme at a range of cloud‐resolving and grey‐zone resolutions. The dynamic schemes include the Lagrangian‐averaged, scale‐dependent dynamic Smagorinsky model and a Lagrangian‐averaged, dynamic mixed model. The conventional Smagorinsky model fails to reproduce the shallow convection stage beyond the large‐eddy simulation regime, continuously building up the convective available potential energy that eventually leads to an unrealistic deep convection phase. The dynamic Smagorinsky model significantly improves the representation of shallow and deep convection; however, it exhibits issues similar to the conventional scheme at coarser resolutions. In contrast, the dynamic mixed model closely follows the large‐eddy simulation results across the range of sub‐kilometre simulations. This is achieved by the combined effect of an adaptive length scale and the inclusion of the Leonard terms, which can produce counter‐gradient fluxes through the backscatter of energy from the subgrid to the resolved scales and enable appropriate non‐local contributions. A further sensitivity test on the inclusion of the Leonard terms on all hydrometeor fluxes reveals the strong interaction between turbulent transport and microphysics and the possible need for further optimisation of the dynamic mixed model coefficients together with the microphysical representation.
Lattice Distortion Induced Ta‐doped BaTiO3 for Efficient Photocatalytic Water Splitting for Hydrogen Production
Authors: Guo Zishuang , Wang Zeyi , Wang Haiwang , Xie Changxiang , Xiang Xiao , Zhang Chengang , Qi Jian
Published: July 2024

BaTiO3, as a perovskite type material with excellent chemical stability and suitable conduction, has been widely studied in the field of photocatalysis. However, it can only absorb ultraviolet light because of its wide band gap. Herein, the lifetime of photogenerated electrons of BaTiO3 doped with Ta5+ can be enhanced. To study the band structure and photocatalytic performance of Ta‐doped BaTiO3, sol‐gel assisted solid‐phase method was employed to prepare BaTiO3 doped with varying Ta5+ doping amounts, and the structure characteristic and formation mechanism of the Ta‐doped BaTiO3 were analyzed. The results showed that the heat treatment temperature reached 1052.7 °C, sufficient thermodynamic conditions were obtained for Ta5+ to dope into the BaTiO3 lattice, and lattice distortion occurred in BaTiO3. Meanwhile, the particle size after doping decreased with the increase of Ta5+ doping amount. The 1.25 mol %Ta5+‐doped BaTiO3 had the lowest band gap (3.077 eV), and the photocatalytic water splitting had the best hydrogen evolution activity, which was 2.4 times that of BaTiO3. Furthermore, the conductance potential of 1.25 mol %Ta5+‐doped BaTiO3 was more negative than that of BaTiO3, which improved the thermodynamic advantage of the photocatalytic water splitting, and it had higher and more stable photoresponse and photogenerated carrier migration rate.
Strategic restraint: When do human‐capital‐intensive companies choose (not) to use noncompete agreements?
Authors: Ganco Martin , Liu Jingnan , Wang Haifeng , Yamaguchi Shotaro
Published: July 2024

Research Summary

Extant work in strategic management has focused on the role of noncompete agreements (NCAs)—a form of restrictive legal lever used by firms when managing human capital—and conceptualized them as being advantageous to firms. Challenging this notion, we highlight a novel downside of using NCAs and show how their use by some firms creates differentiation opportunities for rival firms. We analyze a unique survey dataset to examine the heterogeneity in the firms' actual use of NCAs conditional on industry and state. We find that the nonuse of NCAs is more common among firms that rely more heavily on talent and are also not the industry leaders, and such firms are more likely not to use NCAs with the goal of attracting skilled employees.

Managerial Summary

Noncompete agreements (NCAs) have long been regarded as effective tools for firms managing human capital. Our research challenges this conventional wisdom. We show that NCAs are not uniformly beneficial to all firms even when looking at competitors within the same industry. By analyzing a unique survey dataset, we find that firms relying heavily on talent and not leading their industries are more inclined to forgo NCAs. Their strategic intent? Attracting skilled employees. This study sheds light on the delicate balance between legal constraints and talent attraction and is particularly salient in the context of the policy efforts to ban NCAs.
Programmed Heterostructures for Enhanced Electrical Conductivity
Authors: Singh Neha , Malik Ankur , Sethi Paras , Mondal Prakash Chandra
Published: July 2024

Interfacial electron transport in multicomponent systems plays a crucial role in controlling electrical conductivity. Organic–inorganic heterostructures electronic devices where all the entities are covalently bonded to each other can reduce interfacial electrical resistance, thus suitable for low‐power consumption electronic operations. Programmed heterostructures of covalently bonded interfaces between ITO‐ethynylbenzene (EB) and EB‐zinc ferrite (ZF) nanoparticles, a programmed structure showing 67 978‐fold enhancement of electrical current as compared to pristine NPs‐based two terminal devices are created. An electrochemical approach is adopted to prepare nearly π‐conjugated EB oligomer films of thickness ≈26 nm on ITO‐electrode on which ZF NPs are chemically attached. A “flip‐chip” method is employed to combine two EB‐ZnFe2O4 NPs‐ITO to probe electrical conductivity and charge conduction mechanism. The EB‐ZnFe2O4 NPs exhibit strong electronic coupling at ITO‐EB and EB‐NPs with an energy barrier of 0.13 eV between the ITO Fermi level and the LUMO of EB‐ZF NPs for efficient charge transport. Both the DC and AC‐based electrical measurements manifest a low resistance at ITO‐EB and EB‐ZF NPs, revealing enhanced electrical current at ± 1.5 V. The programmed heterostructure devices can meet a strategy to create well‐controlled molecular layers for electronic applications toward miniaturized components that shorten charge carrier distance, and interfacial resistance.
“One‐Stone‐Three‐Birds” H2S‐Photothermal Therapy for Enhanced Thrombolysis and Vascular Healing
Authors: Zheng Xian , Li Hanyang , Gao Shuwei , Müllen Klaus , Zhang Jin , Ji Chendong , Yin Meizhen
Published: July 2024

Thrombus causes a serious condition characterized by the formation of blood clots in blood vessels or heart, potentially leading to life‐threatening emergencies. Photothermal therapy (PTT) serves as a treatment for thrombosis that provides noninvasive thrombus dissolution and fewer bleeding side effects. However, the high temperatures generated by PTT can exacerbate vascular inflammation and promote thrombus recurrence. In this study, a photothermal hydrogen sulfide (H2S) nanogenerator (PSA@ADT‐OH) is constructed using a perylene‐cored photothermal agent (PSA) coassembled with a H2S donor ADT‐OH. The system PSA@ADT‐OH demonstrates outstanding targeting and accumulation efficiency against blood flow shear forces. It also provides sustained H2S release at thrombus sites, contributing to antiplatelet aggregation, reactive oxygen species clearance, and vascular healing. This approach opens up new possibilities for advanced thrombus treatment.
Tuning the Immune Cell Response through Surface Nanotopography Engineering
Authors: Rathar Raïssa , Sanchez‐Fuentes David , Lachuer Hugo , Meire Valentin , Boulay Aude , Desgarceaux Rudy , Blanchet Fabien P. , Carretero‐Genevrier Adrian , Picas Laura
Published: July 2024

Dendritic cells (DCs) are central regulators of the immune response by detecting inflammatory signals, aberrant cells, or pathogens. DC‐mediated immune surveillance requires morphology changes to adapt to the physical and biochemical cues of the external environment. These changes are assisted by a dynamic actin cytoskeleton–membrane interface connected to surface receptors that will trigger signaling cascades. In recent years, the development of synthetic immune environments has allowed to investigate the impact of the external environment in the immune cell response. In this direction, the bioengineering of functional topographical features should make it possible to establish how membrane morphology modulates specific cellular functions in DCs. Herein, the engineering of one‐dimensional nanostructured SiO2 surfaces by soft‐nanoimprint lithography to manipulate the membrane morphology of ex vivo human DCs is reported. Super‐resolution microscopy and live‐cell imaging studies show that vertical pillar topographies promote the patterning and stabilization of adhesive actin‐enriched structures in DCs. Furthermore, vertical topographies stimulate the spatial organization of innate immune receptors and regulate the Syk‐ and ERK‐mediated signaling pathways across the cell membrane. In conclusion, engineered SiO2 surface topographies can modulate the cellular response of ex vivo human immune cells by imposing local plasma membrane nano‐deformations.
Properties of lightweight foamed concrete containing gold tailings as subgrade filler
Authors: Liang Quping , Zhang Shengtao , Zhang Ning , Ge Zhi , Lv Leyang , Ling Yifeng , Zhang Hongzhi
Published: July 2024

Gold tailings is formed as an industrial waste during gold mining and processing. The aim of the current study is to use it to prepare foamed concrete as subgrade filler. The effect of wet density (600, 700 and 800 kg/m3) and tailings content (15, 30, 45 and 60 wt%) on fluidity, compressive strength, elastic modulus, drying shrinkage, freeze–thaw resistance, hydration heat and pore structure were investigated. It was found that incorporating tailings into foamed concrete decreases the compressive strength as tailings adversely affected the pore structure, resulting in increased porosity, enlarged and connected pores, and reduced sphericity. To meet the requirement of subgrade filler, the tailings content was limited to 30 wt% when the designed wet density was 600 kg/m3 and it was 45 wt% when the wet density increased to 700 and 800 kg/m3. Nevertheless, increasing the tailings content effectively reduced the drying shrinkage and early age hydration heat which are favorable for massive foamed concrete construction. Besides, the incorporation of gold tailings is helpful to the freeze–thaw resistance of 600 and 700 kg/m3 foamed concrete for application in seasonal frozen areas.
Mechanical, microstructural, and thermal characterization of geopolymer composites with nano‐alumina particles and micro steel fibers
Authors: Alomayri Thamer , Raza Ali , Elhadi Khaled Mohamed , Shaikh Faiz
Published: July 2024

Cement production is responsible for 5%–7% of global CO2 emissions, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives like geopolymer composite (GCOMP) to meet the growing demand for concrete. This study investigates the mechanical, microstructural, and thermal properties of GCOMP by incorporating nano‐alumina (n‐alumina) and MSF (MSF). The n‐alumina content was varied at 1%, 2%, and 3% by weight of the mix, while the MSF content remained fixed at 0.5% by weight. Thermal characterization was conducted up to 800°C. The performance of GCOMP blends with n‐alumina was compared to a control blend consisting of only 0.5% MSF. Various mechanical properties were evaluated for all GCOMP blends. Microstructural and mineralogical characteristics were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis were performed up to 800°C for the thermal analysis of the GCOMP mix. The results indicate that the optimal mechanical properties were achieved with 2% n‐alumina (compressive and flexural strength increased by 35.65% and 77.7%, respectively). Additionally, the incorporation of n‐alumina improves the interfacial zones and results in a denser structure. GCOMP mortars portrayed a mass loss between 25°C and 250°C, with a marginal mass loss occurring between 250°C and 715°C. No mass loss was observed between 715°C and 800°C. The MSF‐reinforced GCOMP mortars experienced an ultimate mass loss of approximately 12%, with the MSF showing negligible influence. The addition of n‐alumina particles to MSF‐reinforced GCOMP resulted in the development of stronger samples characterized by the presence of C–S–H, calcium aluminate oxide hydroxide, and quartz.