bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancing jasmine tea production: YOLOv7‐based real‐time jasmine flower detection
Authors: Zhou Hanlin , Luo Jianlong , Ye Qiuping , Leng Wenjun , Qin Jingfeng , Lin Jing , Xie Xiaoyu , Sun Yilan , Huang Shiguo , Pang Jie
Published: July 2024

Background

To produce jasmine tea of excellent quality, it is crucial to select jasmine flowers at their optimal growth stage during harvesting. However, achieving this goal remains a challenge due to environmental and manual factors. This study addresses this issue by classifying different jasmine flowers based on visual attributes using the YOLOv7 algorithm, one of the most advanced algorithms in convolutional neural networks.

Results

The mean average precision (mAP value) for detecting jasmine flowers using this model is 0.948, and the accuracy for five different degrees of openness of jasmine flowers, namely small buds, buds, half‐open, full‐open and wiltered, is 87.7%, 90.3%, 89%, 93.9% and 86.4%, respectively. Meanwhile, other ways of processing the images in the dataset, such as blurring and changing the brightness, also increased the credibility of the algorithm.

Conclusion

This study shows that it is feasible to use deep learning algorithms for distinguishing jasmine flowers at different growth stages. This study can provide a reference for jasmine production estimation and for the development of intelligent and precise flower‐picking applications to reduce flower waste and production costs. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Tourism potential of Eastern Partnership countries—Issues multidimensional comparative analysis
Authors: Klóska Rafał , Oleksiuk Adam
Published: July 2024

Tourism is an important sector for economic development, also in regions such as the Eastern Partnership countries (EaP), which include Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine. The paper presents a multidimensional comparative analysis of the tourism potential of these countries. The article emphasized the importance of taxonomic methods in regional studies, which are widely used for spatial management analysis and diagnosis. This study, given the great applicability of taxonomic methods in regional studies, employs the well‐known procedure and statistical package Statistica. The emphasis, is on certain decisions that, when quantitatively approaching this type of issue, an informed researcher must make. These are decisions of both substantive and methodological character that will allow to approach with due weight the results obtained in consequence of the applied software. The article discusses the importance of the development of tourism infrastructure and digital society for the tourism potential of the Eastern Partnership countries.
Interpretation of Artificial Intelligence Models in Healthcare
Authors: Abbasian Ardakani Ali , Airom Omid , Khorshidi Hamid , Bureau Nathalie J. , Salvi Massimo , Molinari Filippo , Acharya U. Rajendra
Published: July 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) models can play a more effective role in managing patients with the explosion of digital health records available in the healthcare industry. Machine‐learning (ML) and deep‐learning (DL) techniques are two methods used to develop predictive models that serve to improve the clinical processes in the healthcare industry. These models are also implemented in medical imaging machines to empower them with an intelligent decision system to aid physicians in their decisions and increase the efficiency of their routine clinical practices. The physicians who are going to work with these machines need to have an insight into what happens in the background of the implemented models and how they work. More importantly, they need to be able to interpret their predictions, assess their performance, and compare them to find the one with the best performance and fewer errors. This review aims to provide an accessible overview of key evaluation metrics for physicians without AI expertise. In this review, we developed four real‐world diagnostic AI models (two ML and two DL models) for breast cancer diagnosis using ultrasound images. Then, 23 of the most commonly used evaluation metrics were reviewed uncomplicatedly for physicians. Finally, all metrics were calculated and used practically to interpret and evaluate the outputs of the models. Accessible explanations and practical applications empower physicians to effectively interpret, evaluate, and optimize AI models to ensure safety and efficacy when integrated into clinical practice.
Effect of High‐Intensity Focused Ultrasound on Different Types of Adenomyosis Based on Magnetic Resonance Imaging Classification
Authors: Liu Ruiqian , Hao Hongqiang , Yin Yan , Chen Liang , Liu Yang
Published: July 2024

Objective

We aimed to analyze the effect of high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) on different types of adenomyosis (AM) based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) classification.

Methods

A total of 206 AM patients who underwent HIFU between January 2017 and December 2021 were included in this retrospective study. The size and location of AM were evaluated based on T2‐weighted imaging (T2WI) of MRI. Patients were divided into internal (subtype I), external (subtype II), intramural (subtype III), and full‐thickness (subtype IV) AM groups. All patients underwent an MRI examination before and one day after HIFU. After ultrasound‐guided HIFU ablation, the parameters of ultrasonic energy input during HIFU treatment among different groups were recorded and compared. The adverse reactions and complications among different groups were compared.

Results

The lesion volume in the subtype IV group was significantly larger than the subtype II and III groups (P < .05). The HIFU irradiation time, treatment time, and total energy input in the subtype IV group were significantly higher than the subtype I and III groups (P < .05). The number of cases of abdominal pain and vaginal fluid in the treatment area in the subtype IV group was significantly higher than in the subtype II group.

Conclusion

Although HIFU has different treatment strategies and parameters for different subtypes of AM, it can achieve a satisfactory ablation rate, which is safe and effective.
Use or abuse of trophy hunting for conservation genomics?
Authors: Klinga Peter , Pečnerová Patrícia , Blaxter Mark , Höglund Jacob
Published: July 2024

Novel genomic tools can yield information important for the conservation of threatened species. Remains of hunted individuals may provide important genomic information; however, the ethics of using remains of hunted animals for conservation research, especially remains of trophy‐hunted animals, is controversial. While there are ongoing political discussions considering blanket bans on the import and use of trophy‐hunted specimens, the consequences of such bans for conservation science have not been broadly discussed. Should conservation science accept samples acquired through legal trophy hunting? We investigate the ethical and practical considerations surrounding the use of biological samples acquired through legal trophy hunting. We propose that trophy‐hunted specimens should not be banned from conservation genomic research. Specimens from hunting could contribute to science and conservation genomic monitoring of wildlife and provide information for biodiversity management.
Morphology Engineering Enabled Mid‐Infrared Ultra‐Dense Waveguide Array with Low Crosstalk
Authors: Li Ting , Zhang Hong , Zhou Peiji , Lin Yucheng , Sun Yuhan , Liu Yuheng , Xu Xiaochuan , Zou Yi
Published: July 2024

The mid‐infrared (MIR) band holds significant promise in various fields, including thermal imaging, spectroscopy sensing, infrared countermeasures, and free‐space communication, due to its distinctive characteristics. Despite substantial efforts that have been dedicated to building on‐chip photonic integrated circuits for MIR, enabling system miniaturization and broadening application scopes, the challenge of crosstalk among closely packed waveguides persists, hampering improvements in integration density and device performance. Here, a morphology engineering approach is proposed to tailor coupling and suppress crosstalk within a densely arranged waveguide array. These results demonstrate that by introducing a periodic Bezier curve to adorn the waveguide trajectory, coherent coupling can be disrupted, isolating each waveguide and minimizing crosstalk in the array. An experimentally demonstrated eight‐channel waveguide array with a half‐wavelength pitch operating at 3.55 µm exhibits crosstalk suppression exceeding −29 dB, representing an 8 dB improvement compared to a sinusoidal trajectory. This methodology, offering precise control of on‐chip light guiding, coupling, and routing, provides a promising perspective for high‐density design in photonic integrated circuits at MIR.
Heterovalent Zr4+/Nb5+‐Cosubstituted Negative Thermal Expansion Luminescent Materials with Anti‐Thermal Quenching Luminescence
Authors: Fu Biao , Yan Haokun , Li Renfu , Feng Liuzhen , Yu Yiqi , Gong Guoliang , Huang Haiping , Liao Jinsheng
Published: July 2024

Rare earth luminescent materials based on negative thermal expansion (NTE) have achieved thermally enhanced photoluminescence, but these materials typically exhibit relatively weak luminescence intensity at room temperature. In this work, adopting the cationic heterovalent substitution strategy, a series of Sc2‐2xZrxNbxW3‐1.5xO12‐3x:Yb/Er (SZNWOx:Yb/Er) phosphors are prepared by solid‐state reaction. With the increase of x value, the substitution of Sc3+ by Zr4+/Nb5+ leads to a decrease in the local symmetry of Er3+. Compared with Sc2W3O12:Yb/Er (SWO:Yb/Er), this heterovalent substitution strategy significantly improves the luminescence intensity of SZNWOx:Yb/Er while retaining its anti‐thermal quenching luminescence and negative thermal expansion properties. By comparing and analyzing the temperature dependent temperature‐dependent steady‐state/transient spectra of SZNWO0.10:Yb/Er and SWO:Yb/Er phosphors, the anti‐thermal quenching mechanism is discussed from a new perspective. The luminescence intensity ratio (LIR) of the thermal coupled levels (TCL) of Er3+(2H11/2/4S3/2) is adopted for optical temperature sensing, achieving a maximum absolute sensitivity of 1.04% K−1 at 464 K and a maximum relative sensitivity of 1.08% K−1 at 298 K for the SZNWO0.10:Yb/Er phosphors. Finally, the potential applicability using the constructed flexible thin film to real‐world sensing scenarios is demonstrated, offering accurate and real‐time temperature monitoring at the local hotspot in the electronic component of the CPU chip.
Influence of Friction Properties Between Non‐Smooth Surface GFER and 316L Stainless Steel Under Seawater Lubrication and Simulation Research
Authors: Wu Shaofeng , Xu Hongrui , Guo Jian , Wang Zhiqiang , Gao Dianrong
Published: July 2024

In this paper, the friction properties of the port pair with non‐smooth surface in the pump were studied. The lubrication film was modelled and simulated to analyse dynamic pressure, velocity vector and friction coefficient. Tests were made for studying the effects of pit shape and revolution speed on friction properties of glass fibre epoxy resin (GFER) samples under seawater lubrication, with the wear of the surface and friction coefficient discussed. The results show that GFER is mainly manifested as adhesive and abrasive wear during the tests. The simulations and tests suggest that the hydrodynamic lubrication effect is improved by increasing revolution speed and using non‐smooth surfaces, with the friction coefficient being decreased. Moreover, a roughness test was conducted, and it was found that the Ra value of the 316L sample decreased, whereas the Ra value of the GFER sample increased.
High Curvature of Polymer‐Based Miniaturized Flexible Actuator at Very Low Electric Field
Authors: Toinet Simon , Benwadih Mohammed , Szambolics Helga , Minot Sylvain , Revenant Christine , Bordet Marine , Della Schiava Nellie , Le Minh‐Quyen , Cottinet Pierre‐Jean
Published: July 2024

The use of high electric fields, as well as pre‐stressing, are the two main obstacles to the widespread use of poly(vinylidene fluoride (PVDF)‐based actuators. In response, a new double‐sided multilayer device has been developed which, coupled with a polarization procedure, enables high bending performance at low voltages. The actuator's symmetry allows zero bending at rest, while the high number of layers enables a strong field to be maintained while reducing the applied voltage. X‐ray and permittivity studies reveal the ultimate links between the microscopic material displacement and the actuator deflection. These results, coupled with the analytical model developed in this work, demonstrate that the optimization of complex multilayer systems requires a detailed understanding of mechanics, design, and microstructure. Experimental, analytical and finite element results confirm that such a double‐sided multilayer actuator is of 50% more efficient than a conventional single‐sided actuator, up to 40 V µm−1. These achievements open up new prospects for PVDF‐based actuators in application of healthcare, such as arterial navigation.
Phosphorus and Silicon Modified Alginate as an Efficient Flame Retardant for Poly(lactic acid)
Authors: Decsov Kata Enikő , Cserni Viktória , Szolnoki Beáta , Krafcsik Olga , Bocz Katalin
Published: July 2024

The introduction of biobased carbon sources in intumescent flame retardant formulations is extensively explored, particularly for biopolymers such as poly(lactic acid) (PLA). In this work, the flame retardant efficiency of alginate, a favorable renewable charring agent candidate, is enhanced by chemical modification with a phosphorus‐ and silicon‐containing compound and subsequent coagulation in the presence of Ca2+ ions. The simultaneous presence of P and Si atoms in the reactive compound is shown to be an effective way to avoid thermal stability issues related to the biobased carbohydrate. The newly synthesized PSilAlg additive boosts the flame‐retardant effectiveness of ammonium‐polyphosphate (APP) at low loadings. Adding 5 wt% PSilAlg to 15 wt% APP containing PLA composite increases the limiting oxygen index from 26.0 to 34.0 vol% and decreases the total heat emission during combustion by 46%, accompanied by significantly (by 66%) reduced smoke production. The outstanding flame retardant performance of PSilAlg is attributed to the high amount and thermally stable carbonaceous fire‐protecting layer that forms as a result of the enhanced charring, catalyzed by the high oxidation state P, and the strengthening mechanism of inorganic silicates and calcium salts.
Wong–Zakai approximation for a stochastic 2D Cahn–Hilliard–Navier–Stokes model
Authors: Medjo T. Tachim
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we demonstrate the Wong–Zakai approximation results for two dimensional stochastic Cahn–Hilliard–Navier–Stokes model. The model consists of a Navier–Stokes system coupled with convective Cahn–Hilliard equations. It describes the motion of an incompressible isothermal mixture of two (partially) immiscible fluids under the influence of multiplicative noise. Our main result describes the support of the distribution of solutions. As in [2], both inclusions are proved by means of a general Wong–Zakai type result of convergence in probability for nonlinear stochastic PDEs driven by a Hilbert‐valued Brownian motion and some adapted finite‐dimensional approximation of this process. Note that the coupling between the Navier–Stokes system and the Cahn–Hilliard equations makes the analysis more involved.
Molecular Interaction Mechanisms Between Lubricant‐Infused Slippery Surfaces and Mussel‐Inspired Polydopamine Adhesive and DOPA Moiety
Authors: Li Sijia , Zhao Ziqian , Wang Jingyi , Xie Lei , Pan Mingfei , Wu Feiyi , Hu Ying , Liu Jifang , Zeng Hongbo
Published: July 2024

Lubricant‐infused slippery surfaces have recently emerged as promising antifouling coatings, showing potential against proteins, cells, and marine mussels. However, a comprehensive understanding of the molecular binding behaviors and interaction strength of foulants to these surfaces is lacking. In this work, mussel‐inspired chemistry based on catechol‐containing chemicals including 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) and polydopamine (PDA) is employed to investigate the antifouling performance and repellence mechanisms of fluorinated‐based slippery surface, and the correlated interaction mechanisms are probed using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Intermolecular force measurements and deposition experiments between PDA and the surface reveal the ability of lubricant film to inhibit the contact of PDA particles with the substrate. Moreover, the binding mechanisms and bond dissociation energy between a single DOPA moiety and the lubricant‐infused slippery surface are quantitatively investigated employing single‐molecule force spectroscopy based on AFM (SM‐AFM), which reveal that the infused lubricant layer can remarkably influence the dissociation forces and weaken the binding strength between DOPA and underneath per‐fluorinated monolayer surface. This work provides new nanomechanical insights into the fundamental antifouling mechanisms of the lubricant‐infused slippery surfaces against mussel‐derived adhesive chemicals, with important implications for the design of lubricant‐infused materials and other novel antifouling platforms for various bioengineering and engineering applications.
Guarding the lifeline: A game‐theoretical approach to combating emergency supplies counterfeits
Authors: Wang Yue , Liu Ming
Published: July 2024

After emergency incidents, the issue of emergency supplies counterfeiting persists. Relying solely on government intervention often falls short of preventing fraud related to emergency supplies counterfeiting. Hence, this paper explores a new anti‐counterfeiting approach for emergency supplies, led by the government with legitimate manufacturers' support, and establishes a differential game model based on consumer demand, legitimate manufacturers reputation, and anti‐counterfeiting efforts. Upon exploring the anti‐counterfeiting efforts and benefits for two participants, and systems in three scenarios, we find that system benefits, legitimate manufacturer reputation, and respective gains for both participants are the highest in the collaboration scenario. However, compared with a no‐cost‐sharing scenario, the cost‐sharing scenario achieves a Pareto improvement in both social welfare and legitimate manufacturer benefits, with the government choosing to share a portion of the anti‐counterfeiting cost for legitimate manufacturers only under certain conditions.
Development of a two‐dimensional bipolar electrochemistry technique for high throughput corrosion screening
Authors: Zhou Yiqi , Engelberg Dirk Lars
Published: July 2024

Bipolar electrochemistry allows testing and analysing the crevice corrosion, pitting corrosion, passivation, general corrosion, and cathodic deposition reactions on one sample after a single experiment. A novel two‐dimensional bipolar electrochemistry setup is designed using two orthogonal feeder electrode arrangements, allowing corrosion screening tests across a far wider potential range with a smooth potential gradient to be assessed. This two‐dimensional bipolar electrochemistry setup was applied here to simultaneously measure for the simultaneous measurement of the nucleation and propagation of pitting and crevice corrosion under a broad range of applied potential on type 420 stainless steel, which has a very short localised corrosion induction time. It reduces the error from corrosion induction to corrosion competition, and all pits and crevice corrosion have no lacy cover. Results show crevice corrosion can gain current density and easier to support its nucleation and propagation at different potential regions more easily than pitting corrosion.
Inside out: Enhancing mental health for minorities
Authors: Yasin Nazar
Published: July 2024

Holistic solutions that integrate a person's core cultural and spiritual traditions into their wellness routine can foster a greater sense of belonging, self‐esteem, and overall mental health for minorities.
Stability analysis of patient‐specific 4DCT‐ and 4DCBCT‐based correspondence models
Authors: Büttgen Laura Esther , Werner René , Gauer Tobias
Published: July 2024

Background

Surrogate‐based motion compensation in stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) strongly relies on a constant relationship between an external breathing signal and the internal tumor motion over the course of treatment, that is, a stable patient‐specific correspondence model.

Purpose

This study aims to develop methods for analyzing the stability of correspondence models by integrating planning 4DCT and pretreatment 4D cone‐beam computed tomography (4DCBCT) data and assessing the relation to patient‐specific clinical parameters.

Methods

For correspondence modeling, a regression‐based approach is applied, correlating patient‐specific internal motion (vector fields computed by deformable image registration) and external breathing signals (recorded by Varian's RPM and RGSC system). To analyze correspondence model stability, two complementary methods are proposed. (1) Target volume‐based analysis: 4DCBCT‐based correspondence models predict clinical target volumes (GTV and internal target volume [ITV]) within the planning 4DCT, which are evaluated by overlap and distance measures (Dice similarity coefficient [DSC]/average symmetric surface distance [ASSD]). (2) System matrix‐based analysis: 4DCBCT‐based regression models are compared to 4DCT‐based models using mean squared difference (MSD) and principal component analysis of the system matrices. Stability analysis results are correlated with clinical parameters. Both methods are applied to a dataset of 214 pretreatment 4DCBCT scans (Varian TrueBeam) from a cohort of 46 lung tumor patients treated with ITV‐based SBRT (planning 4DCTs acquired with Siemens AS Open and SOMATOM go.OPEN Pro CT scanners).

Results

Consistent results across the two complementary analysis approaches (Spearman correlation coefficient of between system matrix‐based MSD and GTV‐based DSC/ASSD) were observed. Analysis showed that stability was not predominant, with 114/214 fraction‐wise models not surpassing a threshold of for the GTV, and only 14/46 patients demonstrating a in all fractions. Model stability did not degrade over the course of treatment. The mean GTV‐based DSC is (mean ASSD of ) and the respective ITV‐based DSC is (mean ASSD of ). The clinical parameters showed a strong correlation between smaller tumor motion ranges and increased stability.

Conclusions

The proposed methods identify patients with unstable correspondence models prior to each treatment fraction, serving as direct indicators for the necessity of replanning and adaptive treatment approaches to account for internal–external motion variations throughout the course of treatment.
The association between different levels of depression and overactive bladder: A cross‐sectional study of the 2005–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Li Muwei , Xu Mingming , Zhou Hang , Pan Yang , Liu Xiaoqiang
Published: July 2024

Background

There is growing evidence of a possible correlation between depression and overactive bladder (OAB). However, few studies have classified depression according to its severity. Whether there is an association between different levels of depression and OAB symptoms remains unclear.

Methods

Participants with complete information about depression, OAB, and covariates in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2018 were included in this study. Depression symptoms were assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9. OAB symptoms were evaluated by the Overactive Bladder Symptom Score. Weighted multivariate logistic regression models were applied to analyze the relationship between depression and OAB.

Results

A total of 30 359 participants were included in this study, consisting of 6245 OAB patients and 24 114 non‐OAB participants. The multivariate logistic regression suggested depression independently correlated with OAB (odds ratio [OR] = 2.764, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.429–3.146, p < 0.001). Further, mild (OR = 2.355, 95% CI = 2.111–2.627, p < 0.001), moderate (OR = 3.262, 95% CI = 2.770–3.841, p < 0.001), and moderately severe to severe depression (OR = 3.927, 95% CI = 3.246–4.752, p < 0.001) were all associated with OAB. Additionally, depression was also correlated with urgency urinary incontinence (OR = 2.249, 95% CI = 1.986–2.548, p < 0.001) and nocturia (OR = 2.166, 95% CI = 1.919–2.446, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study indicated different levels of depression, even mild depression, were independent risk factors for OAB. Given the frequent coexistence and potential interactions between depression and OAB, clinicians should be aware of the importance of assessing both physical and psychological symptoms in these patients. Early diagnosis and holistic treatment may improve the treatment outcomes, particularly for those suffering from both conditions.
Ultra‐low‐field magnetic resonance angiography at 0.05 T: A preliminary study
Authors: Su Shi , Hu Jiahao , Ding Ye , Zhang Junhao , Lau Vick , Zhao Yujiao , Wu Ed X.
Published: July 2024

We aim to explore the feasibility of head and neck time‐of‐flight (TOF) magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) at ultra‐low‐field (ULF). TOF MRA was conducted on a highly simplified 0.05 T MRI scanner with no radiofrequency (RF) and magnetic shielding. A flow‐compensated three‐dimensional (3D) gradient echo (GRE) sequence with a tilt‐optimized nonsaturated excitation RF pulse, and a flow‐compensated multislice two‐dimensional (2D) GRE sequence, were implemented for cerebral artery and vein imaging, respectively. For carotid artery and jugular vein imaging, flow‐compensated 2D GRE sequences were utilized with venous and arterial blood presaturation, respectively. MRA was performed on young healthy subjects. Vessel‐to‐background contrast was experimentally observed with strong blood inflow effect and background tissue suppression. The large primary cerebral arteries and veins, carotid arteries, jugular veins, and artery bifurcations could be identified in both raw GRE images and maximum intensity projections. The primary brain and neck arteries were found to be reproducible among multiple examination sessions. These preliminary experimental results demonstrated the possibility of artery TOF MRA on low‐cost 0.05 T scanners for the first time, despite the extremely low MR signal. We expect to improve the quality of ULF TOF MRA in the near future through sequence development and optimization, ongoing advances in ULF hardware and image formation, and the use of vascular T1 contrast agents.
Enhanced microwave absorption and mechanical performance of polyvinylidene fluoride thin films embedded with novel activated carbon and manganese ferrite
Authors: Amudhu L. B. Thamil , Samsingh R. Vimal , Florence S. Esther , Thangarasu Vinoth
Published: July 2024

Thin composite films hold great promise for microwave devices for microwave absorption. This work mainly focuses on the investigation of the microwave absorption and mechanical studies of a composite thin film of activated carbon and manganese ferrite as conductive fillers within a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) matrix. The production of activated carbon was successfully accomplished using a pyrolysis technique. Composite films consisting of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and activated carbon‐manganese ferrite were fabricated using a solution blending method. The composite films maintained a consistent concentration of activated carbon at 5 wt%. The characterization of the materials was conducted using scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. The composite consists of 3 wt% of MnFe2O4 and 5 wt% Activated carbon/PVDF showed exceptional absorption properties and achieved a minimum reflection loss of around −38 dB at a frequency of 8–12 GHz at a thickness of 2 mm. Significantly, the composite film exhibited a greater tensile strength than the PVDF film. The results of our study highlighted the enhanced microwave absorption and economical manufacturing technique for producing composite films. These films exhibit promising microwave‐absorbing properties in stealth applications.

Highlights

A facile strategy to fabricate thin film PVDF composites was proposed.

Novel activated carbon was synthesized to enhance the conductivity.

Achieved reflection loss of around −38 dB at a frequency of 8–12 GHz.

Synergistic effects of fillers enhanced dielectric and magnetic losses.

Exhibited efficient mechanical performance and microwave absorption.
Tribological behavior of poly(ether ether ketone)/synthetic Eucommia rubber composites
Authors: Pei Qianyao , Pei Xianqiang , Yu Zihui , Wang Yan , Zhang Zhancheng , Wang Qihua , Wang Tingmei
Published: July 2024

Our previous study (Polymer Composites 2023, 44: 1252–1263) revealed the positive role of rubber in modifying the tribological properties of polymer composites. This concept was applied here by incorporating synthetic Eucommia rubber (TPI) to 3D printed polyether ether ketone (PEEK) skeletons with different infill densities. The formation of TPI/PEEK composite improved the friction and wear of PEEK matrix with some reduction in mechanical performance. The composite with 70% infill density is recommended in terms of its overall performance. Based on the morphological and chemical analysis, the composite's wear mechanism was discussed. The findings of this present study could pave a new route to modify friction‐reduction and anti‐wear performance of PEEK.

Highlights

Novel composites were successfully prepared from thermodynamically incompatible synthetic Eucommia rubber (TPI) and polyether ether ketone (PEEK).

The tribological properties of TPI/PEEK composites were studied in association with the infill density of PEEK.

The TPI rubber helped improve the friction and wear properties of PEEK thanks to its role in enhancing the formation of transfer films on the counter steel surface.
Effects of exercise on bone density and physical performance in postmenopausal women: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hsu Hsin‐Hui , Chiu Ching‐Ya , Chen Wei‐Chen , Yang Yea‐Ru , Wang Ray‐Yau
Published: July 2024

Background

Postmenopausal bone loss and decreased physical performance are commonly presented issues. This study aimed through systematic review and meta‐analysis to examine the benefits of adding exercise to medicine/supplements in postmenopausal women.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted of four electronic databases for articles published from inception to December 2023. Clinical controlled trials comparing the effect of additional exercise and medicine/supplements alone in postmenopausal women were included. The outcomes studied were bone mineral density (BMD) and physical performance. The quality of evidence was evaluated by the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE).

Results

Nineteen articles with 1249 participants were included in this study for systematic review and meta‐analysis. The results showed that additional exercise was not associated with significantly improved BMD at the lumbar spine and hip joint compared with medicine/supplements only. However, results of subgroup analysis of exercise types showed a significant improvement in lumbar spine BMD by combining multiple types of exercise training (SMD = 0.37; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.01–0.72; p = .04). Furthermore, additional exercise significantly improved lower extremity muscle strength (Standard Mean Difference [SMD] = 1.77; 95% CI = 0.56–2.98; p = .004), Berg's Balance Scale (SMD = 0.72; 95% CI = 0.12–1.32; p = .02), Timed Up and Go (SMD = −1.07; 95% CI = −1.35–−0.78; p < .001), fear of falling (SMD = 1.32; 95% CI = 0.89–1.75; p < .001), and the quality of life (SMD = 1.39; 95% CI = 0.74–2.05; p < .001). The quality level of the evidence was between low to very low.

Conclusions

The significant value of the exercise was demonstrated through enhancing physical performance and quality of life. Moreover, combining various exercise training programs has shown a positive effect on BMD at the lumbar spine. Therefore, for postmenopausal women, combining exercise with medicine/supplements is recommended to further improve physical function and specific areas of BMD. (PROSPERO: CRD42023390633).
Design, synthesis and biological activity evaluation of eco‐friendly rosin‐based fungicides for sustainable crop protection
Authors: Xu Renle , Kong Yue , Lou Yuhang , Wu Jiaying , Gao Yanqing , Shang Shibin , Song Zhanqian , Song Jie , Li Jian
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Utilizing fungicides to protect crops from diseases is an effective method, and novel eco‐friendly plant‐derived fungicides with high efficiency and low toxicity are urgent requirements for sustainable crop protection.

RESULT

Two series of rosin‐based fungicides (totally 35) were designed and synthesized. In vitro fungicidal activity revealed that Compound 6a (Co. 6a) effectively inhibited the growth of Valsa mali [median effective concentration (EC50) = 0.627 μg mL−1], and in vivo fungicidal activity suggested a significant protective efficacy of Co. 6a in protecting both apple branches (35.12% to 75.20%) and apples (75.86% to 90.82%). Quantum chemical calculations (via density functional theory) results indicated that the primary active site of Co. 6a lies in its amide structure. Mycelial morphology and physiology were investigated to elucidate the mode‐of‐action of Co. 6a, and suggested that Co. 6a produced significant cell membrane damage, accelerated electrolyte leakage, decreased succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) protein activity, and impaired physiological and biochemical functions, culminating in mycelial mortality. Molecular docking analysis revealed a robust binding energy (ΔE = −7.29 kcal mol−1) between Co. 6a and SDH. Subsequently, biosafety evaluations confirmed the environmentally‐friendly nature of Co. 6a via the zebrafish model, yet toxicological results indicated that Co. 6a at median lethal concentration [LC50(96)] damaged the gills, liver and intestines of zebrafish.

CONCLUSION

The above research offers a theoretical foundation for exploiting eco‐friendly rosin‐based fungicidal candidates in sustainable crop protection. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Robust adaptive optimal trajectory tracking control for underactuated AUVs with position and velocity constraints in three‐dimensional space
Authors: Gong Huibin , Er Meng Joo , Liu Yi
Published: July 2024

The safety and optimality of underactuated autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) during operations are essential factors to consider. In this context, a three‐dimensional robust adaptive optimal trajectory tracking control method under position and velocity constraints, unknown dynamics, and environmental disturbances is proposed. The main features of the method are: (1) The outputs of an underactuated AUV system are redefined to handle the underactuation problem. (2) The system with position and velocity constraints is transformed into an unconstrained system by a nonlinear state‐dependent transformation. (3) A critic‐identifier architecture is constructed using adaptive dynamic programming and neural networks in a backstepping framework. Specifically, critic networks and weight update laws without requiring initial stability control are designed to solve Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman equations in kinematic and dynamic subsystems, and optimal virtual and actual control laws are obtained. (4) A neural network identifier is developed to estimate unknown dynamics. Disturbances are overcome by improving the cost function and solving for optimal control of the nominal dynamic subsystem. By stability analysis, tracking errors in the AUV closed‐loop system can converge to an arbitrarily small compact set of the origin, and the other signals are uniformly ultimately bounded. Simulation comparisons demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method.
Reduced heart rate variability is related to fluctuations in psychological stress levels in daily life
Authors: Kim Jinhyuk , Foo Jerome Clifford , Murata Taiga , Togo Fumiharu
Published: July 2024

Laboratory‐based studies have shown that psychological stress caused by response to various stressors triggers acute changes in the cardiovascular system. A better understanding is needed of the emerging evidence on temporal associations between psychological stress and cardiovascular responses in natural settings. This study examined the association of psychological stress and heart rate variability (HRV) in daily life, at high resolution over 2 weeks, taking the effect of physical activity into account. Participants (n = 34) completed ecological momentary assessments (EMA) 6 times per day, reporting levels of perceived stress, low‐arousal negative affect (LNA), and high‐arousal negative affect. Chest‐mounted heart‐rate monitors were worn to assess HRV. Multilevel models were used to examine the association between psychological stress levels and preceding/subsequent HRV. Reduced time domain HRV measures (mean and standard deviation of R‐wave to R‐wave intervals) during the prior hour predicted higher levels of perceived stress. Frequency domain HRV measures higher low to high frequency (LF/HF) and lower HF to total power (HF nu) ratios during the preceding 10 min predicted higher perceived stress levels, suggesting the dominance of sympathetic nervous system activity. EMA reports of higher perceived stress levels were associated with reduced time domain HRV measures during the following 10 min. On the other hand, higher LNA were related to increased HRV measures, such as lower LF/HF and higher HF nu during the following hour. The dynamic associations observed may have therapeutic implications for ‘just‐in‐time’ interventions in the management of daily stress and cardiovascular health.
Psychometric properties of the Perth emotional labour scale: Preliminary support for a new measure with theoretical implications
Authors: Clarke James J. , Rees Clare S. , Mancini Vincent O. , Breen Lauren J.
Published: July 2024

Emotional labour is the process by which people regulate emotions congruently with occupational requirements. Research consistently links emotional labour to greater levels of burnout. However, we argue this literature is potentially confounded by measurement error. We sought to validate an English adaptation of a recent emotional labour measure that addresses measurement error concerns in an under‐researched sample at risk of burnout—psychologists providing psychotherapy. We termed this measure the Perth Emotional Labour Scale (PELS) which is based upon Andela and colleagues' (2015) original measure. Additionally, we explored what factors of emotional labour contributed most to burnout in this group. We recruited 418 psychologists (81.58% female, 17.46% male, 0.96% non‐binary) across Australia (N = 362, 86.60%) and New Zealand (N = 56, 13.40%). Factor analyses and correlational analyses examined the PELS’ reliability and validity. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis explored whether each component of emotional labour contributed unique variance to emotional exhaustion (EE). Preliminary support for the PELS’ psychometric properties was found and emotional dissonance was found to be the only emotional labour factor that uniquely contributed to EE. We demonstrate preliminary psychometric support for the PELS but recommend further development and argue our findings have unique implications for research and practice.
Organizational adaptation in dynamic environments: Disentangling the effects of how much to explore versus where to explore
Authors: Srikanth Kannan , Ungureanu Tiberiu
Published: July 2024

Research Summary

There is considerable debate about how firms should adapt to environmental dynamism. Theoretically, some scholars suggest that with increasing dynamism, firms should explore more, whereas others argue that firms should explore less. Empirical evidence remains mixed. We attempt to reconcile these mixed findings by (a) distinguishing between two facets of exploration—exploration propensity versus exploration breadth, and (b) recognizing that firms may make these two decisions using different decision‐making processes. Using a computational model we show that with increasing environmental dynamism, for high performance, (a) firms' exploration propensity may increase, decrease, or stay the same depending on their decision‐making process, but (b) firms' exploration breadth always increases. Our results help explain the mixed findings in this domain and have implications for future empirical work.

Managerial Summary

Responding to dynamic environments is challenging for managers. There is limited support for the intuition that firms should explore more in more dynamic environments. We recognize that exploration decisions in firms are temporally and hierarchically separated—senior managers first decide how much to explore and middle managers then decide which projects to fund. In this research, we use a computational model to unpack how these two facets of exploration may change in dynamic environments for firms to maintain high performance. We find that as dynamism increases, how much firms explore depends on how sensitive their decision‐making process is to the perceived attractiveness of the different options, but when they explore, they should always choose options further away from their status‐quo.
Heterobimetallic Synergism in Triple‐Redox 2D Framework for Largely Boosted Water Oxidation and Flanked Carboxylic‐Acid‐Triggered Unconventional Tandem Catalysis
Authors: Chand Rudra , Karmakar Arun , Kundu Subrata , Neogi Subhadip
Published: July 2024

A fish‐bone‐shaped and thermochemically stable 2D metal‐organic framework (MOF) with multimodal active center‐decked pore‐wall is devised. Redox‐active [Co2(COO)4] node and thiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazole functionalization benefit this mixed‐ligand MOF exhibiting electrochemical water oxidation with 375 mV overpotential at 10 mA cm−2 current density and 78 mV per dec Tafel slope in alkaline medium. Pair of oppositely oriented carboxylic acids aids postmetalation with transition metal ions to engineer heterobimetallic materials. Notably, overpotential of Ni2+ grafted triple‐redox composite reduces to 270 mV with twofold declined Tafel slope than the parent MOF, ranking among the best‐reported values, and outperforming majority of related catalysts. Significantly, turnover frequency and charge transfer resistance display 35.5 and 1.4‐fold upsurge, respectively, with much uplifted chronopotentiometric stability and increase active surface area owing to synergistic Co(II)–Ni(II) coupling. The simultaneous presence of ─COOH and nitrogen‐rich moieties renders this hydrogen‐bonded MOF as acid–base synergistic catalyst for recyclable deacetalization‐Knoevenagel reaction with >99% product yield under solvent‐free mild condition. Besides control experiments, unique role of ─COOH as hydrogen‐bond donor site in substrate activation is validated from comparing the performances of molecular‐shearing approach‐derived structurally similar unfunctionalized MOF, and the heterobimetallic composite. To the best of tandem Knoevenagel condensation, larger‐sized acetal exhibits poor yield of α,β‐unsaturated dicyanides, and demonstrates pore‐fitting‐mediated size‐selectivity.
A Triple Crosslinked Binder with Hierarchical Stress Dissipation and High Ionic Conductivity for Advanced Silicon Anodes in Lithium‐ion Batteries
Authors: He Yang , Zhou Feng , Zhang Yingxi , Lv Tuan , Chu Paul K. , Huo Kaifu
Published: July 2024

Silicon (Si) is a promising anode material for high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries, but the significant volume change of Si particles during alloying/dealloying with lithium (Li) undermines the mechanical integrity of Si anode, causing electrode fracture, delamination and rapid capacity decay. Herein, a robust triple crosslinked network (TCN) binder with high ionic conductivity and hierarchical stress dissipation is reported for Si anodes, which is prepared by in situ chemical crosslinking polyacrylic acid (PAA) and melamine (MA). The triple interactions of hydrogen bonds, electrostatic interactions, and covalent amide bonds enhance the adhesion of binder to Si and synergistically promote stress dissipation within Si anodes, thus strengthening the dynamic structural stability of Si anodes during cycling. Moreover, the rapid coupling/decoupling of Li+ with the TCN binder enables an impressive Li+ transference number of 0.63 and high ionic conductivity of 1.2 × 10−4 S cm−1. Consequently, the Si‐TCN anode delivers specific capacity of 2268 mAh g−1 with a high mass loading of 2 mg cm−2, high‐rate performance of 1673 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1, and stable cycling for 250 cycles at 1 A g−1, thus showing great prospects for high‐energy‐density Si‐based batteries.
Efficient Sodium Storage in Cu1.96S@NC Anode Achieved by Robust S─C Bonds and Current Collector Self‐Induced Forming Cu2S Quantum Dots
Authors: Peng Hui , Miao Wenxing , Cui Shuzhen , Liu Zhiyuan , Tao Bo , Hou Wenbo , Ma Guofu , Lei Ziqiang
Published: July 2024

Transition metal sulfides are investigation hotspots of anode material for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) due to their structural diversity and high storage capacity. However, they are still plagued by inevitable volume expansion during sodiation/desodiation and an unclear energy storage mechanism. Herein, a one‐step sulfidation‐carbonization strategy is proposed for in situ confined growth of Cu1.96S nanoparticles in nitrogen‐doped carbon (Cu1.96S@NC) using octahedral metal–organic framework (Cu‐BTC) as a precursor and investigate the driving effect of Cu current collector on its sodium storage. The generation of S─C bonds in Cu1.96S@NC avoids the volume change and structural collapse of Cu1.96S nanoparticles during the cycling process and improves the adsorption and transport capacity of the material for Na+. More exciting, the Cu species in the Cu current collector are self‐induced forming Cu2S quantum dots to enter the original anode material during the initial few charging and discharging cycles, which unique small‐size effect and abundant edge‐active sites enhance the energy storage capacity of Cu1.96S. Thus, the Cu1.96S@NC exhibits a superior first discharge capacity of 608.56 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 with an initial Coulomb efficiency (ICE) of 75.4%, as well as provides excellent rate performance and long cycle durability up to 2000 cycles.
SGDL: Smart contract vulnerability generation via deep learning
Authors: Chu Hanting , Zhang Pengcheng , Dong Hai , Xiao Yan , Ji Shunhui
Published: July 2024

The growing popularity of smart contracts in various areas, such as digital payments and the Internet of Things, has led to an increase in smart contract security challenges. Researchers have responded by developing vulnerability detection tools. However, the effectiveness of these tools is limited due to the lack of authentic smart contract vulnerability datasets to comprehensively assess their capacity for diverse vulnerabilities. This paper proposes a Deep Learning‐based Smart contract vulnerability Generation approach (SGDL) to overcome this challenge. SGDL utilizes static analysis techniques to extract both syntactic and semantic information from the contracts. It then uses a classification technique to match injected vulnerabilities with contracts. A generative adversarial network is employed to generate smart contract vulnerability fragments, creating a diverse and authentic pool of fragments. The vulnerability fragments are then injected into the smart contracts using an abstract syntax tree to ensure their syntactic correctness. Our experimental results demonstrate that our method is more effective than existing vulnerability injection methods in evaluating the contract vulnerability detection capacity of existing detection tools. Overall, SGDL provides a comprehensive and innovative solution to address the critical issue of authentic and diverse smart contract vulnerability datasets.