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Polyisocyanate was used to chemically functionalize carboxylated cellulose nanofibers (CNF-C). Composites of CNF-C/ monomer casting nylon (MC nylon) and modified CNF-C/MC nylon were fabricated by anionic ring-opening polymerization. The mechanical characteristics of the MC nylon composites and the dispersion of the CNF-C in the MC nylon were studied. The tensile strength and impact strength of composites were first increased with CNF-C addition, but then decreased as further CNF-C was added. The composites had good mechanical properties when CNF-C was added to MC nylon at 1.0 wt%, and the tensile strength and impact strength were increased by 21.2% and 34.9%, respectively, compared to MC nylon. When modified CNF-C was added at 1.5 wt%, the tensile strength of composites was increased by 47.90%. The addition of CNF-C causes an increase in the melting point, crystallinity, and crystallization temperature, which was confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The modified CNF-C had better dispersibility in MC nylon which was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). KEYWORDS carboxylated cellulose nanofibers, composites, MC nylon, 1 | INTRODUCTION Cellulose nanofibers are the most abundant polymer material in nature and are a renewable and environment-friendly material resource. Nanocellulose is less than 100 nm in diameter and [...]

Background: The protection for different skin types with impaired skin barrier in the market is insufficient. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a panthenol‐enriched mask (La Roche‐Posay Mask Pro) in addressing various skin barrier impairment subgroups, including dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin. Methods: A total of 177 participants were enrolled in the study and divided into three subgroups based on their skin type. Participants used the mask following the specified protocol, with measurements taken for skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), sebum content, and skin redness—factors that are directly influenced by skin barrier function. Assessments were conducted at baseline and after 1 day (tested 15 min post‐application), 7 days, and 14 days of application using Sebumeter, Tewameter, Corneometer, Mexameter, and VISIA. Results: Results showed significant improvements in skin parameters across all subgroups. In the dry sensitive skin subgroup, the mask increased skin hydration, sebum content, and reduced redness. For the oily sensitive skin subgroup, the mask regulated sebum production and improved skin hydration. In the oily acne skin subgroup, the mask reduced sebum content, redness, TEWL, and post‐inflammatory erythema and hyperpigmentation. Tolerance was excellent for all skin types, with no adverse reactions observed. Conclusions: This study highlights the efficacy and safety of the panthenol‐enriched LRP Mask Pro for individuals with distinct skin barrier impairment subgroups. The mask's versatile formulation and proven efficacy make it a valuable skincare product for addressing various skin concerns and achieving healthier, more balanced skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prolonged use of medical masks has increased skin‐related issues. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of a facial cream and facial mask in mitigating medical mask related skin symptoms. Methods: Healthy women were randomly assigned to apply a facial cream (n = 32) or a facial mask plus a facial cream (n = 32) on half‐faces after wearing medical masks for 4 h (Tb). Transepidermal water loss (TEWL), dryness score, and redness area were assessed at Tb and 10 min after using the cream (T1) in the facial cream group, and at Tb, 1 h after using the facial mask (T2), and 10 min after using the cream (T3) in the combined use group. Results: In the facial cream group, the treated half‐face showed significantly better improvements from Tb to T1 in TEWL (−2.95 ± 0.38 vs. −0.68 ± 0.35 g/h·cm2, p < 0.001) and skin dryness score (−1.00 ± 0.12 vs. 0.00 ± 0.00, p < 0.001). In the combined use group, the treated half‐face showed significantly better improvements from Tb to T2 and T3 in TEWL (T2, −3.46 ± 0.33 vs. −0.09 ± 0.13 g/h·cm2; T3, −4.67 ± 0.31 vs. −0.28 ± 0.22 g/h·cm2) and skin dryness score (T2, −0.63 ± 0.13 vs. 0.03 ± 0.03; T3, −0.94 ± 0.17 vs. 0.19 ± 0.07) (all p < 0.001) then the untreated half‐face. The combined use group had significantly lower TEWL at T3 than T2 (p < 0.05). The reduction in redness area was similar between the treated and untreated half‐faces in both groups. Conclusions: The test facial cream and mask significantly improved skin barrier function and alleviated dryness symptoms associated with medical mask use, with the combined use offering superior benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The copolyester poly(butylene glycol adipate-co-terephthalate/diphenylsilanediol adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBDAT) was synthesized by the melt polycondensation method using terephthalic acid, adipic acid, 1,4-butanediol, and diphenylsilylene glycol as the raw materials. The molecular chain structure, thermal properties, thermal stability, mechanical properties, and degradation behaviors of the copolyesters were investigated. The results showed that the prepared PBDAT copolyesters exhibited good thermal stability and mechanical properties. With the increase in diphenylsilanediol (DPSD) content, the thermal stability of PBDAT and the melting temperature both increased. The tensile strength and elastic modulus of PBDAT also exhibited an increasing tend. When the DPSD content was 12.5% (PBDAT-12.5), the tensile strength, the elastic modulus, and elongation at break were 30.56 MPa, 238 MPa, and 219%, respectively. With the increase in diphenylsilanediol content, the hydrophilicity of PBDAT decreased, but PBDAT still shows good degradability and the thermal degradation T5% temperature was 355 °C. The thermal degradation of PBDAT was also improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: The protection for ultra‐long UVA1 is lacked in the market, posing potential damage from ultra‐long UVA1 irradiation. The study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a sunscreen containing multiple components, especially Mexoryl® 400 for improving skin barrier function and reducing melanin content. Methods: This single‐center study included adults with sensitive and normal skin in China in November 2022. Participants received the test sunscreen for 4 weeks. Melanin and hemoglobin content, sebum secretion skin hydration, and trans‐epidermal water loss were evaluated at T0d, T7d, and T28d. The self‐assessment was done at T15min, T7d, and T28d. Results: Sixty participants were included, including 30 self‐claimed sensitive skin in the sunscreen group. The sunscreen demonstrated significant improvements in skin parameters. Skin redness reduced by 9.84% at T28d, sebum content in the forehead area decreased by 22.70% at T28d, and skin stratum corneum hydration increased by 38.44% at T28d, p < 0.001 respectively. Most notably, skin melanin content significantly reduced by 13.49% after 4 weeks' usage (p < 0.001). No adverse reactions were reported in either group. Conclusions: The study sunscreen improved the skin condition by decreasing the melanin content, regulating skin barrier function, and achieving a balance of skin hydration and sebum secretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: UV rays not only cause oxidative damage to the skin, but also damage its barrier function. The use of sunscreen is crucial in preventing skin from UV radiation, but it may have an impact on the function of the skin barrier. While much research has focused on the protective effects of sunscreen against UV oxidative damage, little is known about the impact of daily sunscreen use on the skin barrier. Objective: This study mainly investigated the changes in skin barrier function of volunteers (including those with sensitive skin) before and after using a ceramide‐containing sunscreen. Methods: A total of 60 volunteers used SPF30 sunscreen containing ceramide every morning. Using non‐invasive methods to detect skin barrier changes in TEWL, hydration, facial redness based on VISIA‐CR image, and Erythema index (EI) value after 4 weeks of using ceramide‐containing sunscreen. Adverse reactions were also assessed. Results: After 4 weeks of using ceramide‐containing sunscreen, significant reductions were observed in skin redness with both an 11.89% decrease in a* value and a 5.68% decrease in skin EI, while there was also a significant decrease in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) with a reduction of 22.96%, and a significant increase in skin hydration with a 21.96% increase in the moisture content of the stratum corneum. No adverse events occurred during the entire testing process. Conclusion: Daily application of ceramide‐containing sunscreen can increase skin hydration while enhancing the function of the skin barrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sensitive skin is a common condition affecting a significant proportion of the population, and there is a growing demand for effective and safe management. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a cream containing panthenol, prebiotics, and probiotic lysate as an optimal care for facial sensitive skin. Methods: A total of 110 participants (64 in group A and 46 in group B) with facial sensitive skin applied the cream twice daily for 28 days. Group A evaluated their sensitive skin, product efficacy, and product use experience at D0 (15 min), D1, D14, and D28. In group B, skin barrier function‐related indicators were measured at baseline and on D1, D7, D14, and D28. Dermatologists evaluated tolerance for all participants. Results: After 28 days of use, in group A, 100% of participants reported mildness and comfort with product use. Participants demonstrated significant improvements in skin barrier function‐related indicators, including increased stratum corneum moisture content, reduced erythema index, elevated sebum content, decreased trans‐epidermal water loss, and diminished skin redness parameter a* value (all p < 0.05). Dermatologist evaluations revealed excellent tolerance among all participants. Conclusion: The panthenol‐enriched cream with prebiotics and probiotic lysate exhibited substantial clinical efficacy in ameliorating facial sensitive skin conditions, coupled with a high safety profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Oily skin, characterized by excessive sebum production, can lead to acne and have psychosocial impacts due to changes in appearance. Recent research has shown interest in treatments for oil control, with kaolin and bentonite emerging as promising options. Despite their potential, comprehensive studies on these ingredients are still in the nascent stages. AIM: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a clay mask (La Roche‐Posay Effaclar Sebo‐Controlling Mask) in reducing skin oiliness and acne, and its safety for use. METHODS: In this study, 75 adults with oily or combination skin were enrolled and provided with a clay mask for twice‐weekly use over 4 weeks. Clinical assessments, using instruments like Sebumeter, Vapometer, and Corneometer, were conducted at baseline, and after 1, 2, and 4 weeks, evaluating acne lesions, skin irritation, sebum content, and skin hydration. Participant self‐assessment questionnaires were also utilized for subjective evaluation. Statistical analyses were performed accordingly. RESULTS: The study revealed significant improvements in acne‐related outcomes, sebum content, skin evenness, stratum corneum water content, and transepidermal water loss following the application of the clay mask. Pore area and porphyrin area showed no significant changes. Tolerance assessment showed reduced dryness and irritation, with self‐assessment indicating high product acceptability and perceived oil control effectiveness. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated the clay mask's efficacy in managing acne and oily skin, improving hydration and texture. Significant improvements in skin parameters and high product safety were observed, supporting its suitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inflammatory and non‐inflammatory acne lesions constitute a significant clinical challenge in acne subjects. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a facial serum and a mask containing salicylic acid and lipohydroxy acid for improving skin conditions. Methods: This randomized controlled trial included adults with comedones, post‐inflammatory erythema (PIE) and/or hyperpigmentation (PIH) in Shanghai, China in July 2021. Participants were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive the study Serum + Mask or serum alone for 8 weeks. Acne severity, comedones, papules, pustules, PIE, PIH, skin pores, skin tone evenness, sebum secretion, skin hydration, and trans‐epidermal water loss were evaluated at T0d, T1d, T7d, T14d, T28d, and T56d. Results: Eighty‐three participants were included, including 41 and 42 in the Serum + Mask and Serum groups, respectively. Acne severity, density of skin pores, skin tone evenness, PIH foci on face, PIE foci on nose, intensity of PIE and PIH, closed comedones on face, open comedones on nose, sebum secretion, and skin hydration were significantly improved from baseline after 8 weeks of treatment in both groups (all p < 0.05). Addition of the mask improved the number of closed comedones (−6.56 ± 0.39 vs. −5.19 ± 0.44, p = 0.022) and acne severity (−0.39 ± 0.08 vs. −0.12 ± 0.09, p = 0.026) substantially more than using the serum alone. No adverse reaction was reported in either group. Conclusions: The study serum improved skin conditions by regulating skin barrier function and achieving a balance of skin hydration and sebum secretion, removing comedones and improving PIE and PIH. Addition of the mask accelerated the effects without compromising safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of Industry 4.0, in order to meet the needs of intelligent fault diagnosis of rotating machinery in the industrial field, this paper developed a fault diagnosis system for rotating machinery based on deep learning and wavelet transform methods. The system is based on the Python language and mainly combines the PyQt graphical interface framework and the TensorFlow machine learning framework to complete the training requirements for historical or online fault data, and perform online monitoring and diagnosis of equipment operating conditions. The diagnostic accuracy of the system test results is more than 95%, the software interface is friendly, the algorithm generalization ability is good, and the reliability is strong. It provides guidance for the diagnosis of rotating machinery.

A scientific understanding of the trade-offs and synergies of ecosystem services is the prerequisite for maintaining the structure, function and health of forest ecosystems, which is conducive to promoting the "win-win" goal of economic development and ecological protection. As an important ecological function area in China, the Qinba Mountain region is responsible for important ecological services such as biodiversity conservation and water conservation, and exploring the trade-offs and synergistic relationships of ecosystem services is important for ecological conservation and high-quality development in this region. This paper analyzes the spatial and temporal characteristics of water conservation, soil conservation, carbon sequestration, and habitat quality services and their synergistic/balancing relationships in the Qinba Mountain region from 1990 to 2020 using tools such as the InVEST model, ArcGIS, and Matlab. The results showed that (1) the overall trend of water connotation, soil conservation and carbon sequestration in the Qinba Mountains is increasing, while the trend of habitat quality is fluctuating and decreasing. The spatial distribution pattern of water conservation and soil conservation services was "high in the southwest and low in the northeast", while the spatial pattern of habitat quality services was the opposite; the spatial distribution pattern of carbon sequestration services was "low in the middle and high around". (2) Habitat quality in the Qinba Mountains has a trade-off relationship with water connotation and soil conservation, as water connotation–soil conservation is a synergistic relationship, while carbon sequestration is unrelated to water connotation–soil conservation and habitat quality. (3) The area of habitat quality–water conservation showed a decreasing trend; the area of habitat quality–soil conservation showed an increasing trend; the area of habitat quality-water conservation showed a decreasing trend; the area of habitat quality-soil conservation showed an increasing trend; the area of water conservation-soil conservation service synergistic relationship showed a decreasing and then increasing trend; while the area of carbon sequestration service and In most of the regions, carbon sequestration, soil conservation and habitat quality services are not related to each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]