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Climate change is expected to have a considerable impact on precipitation leading to more intense and frequent extreme events. Considering the different driving mechanisms of precipitation extreme is essential to understand the changes in response to climate change. In this study, we decompose the intensity of extreme wet month precipitation (EWMP) during the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) into atmospheric dynamic, thermodynamic and non‐linear components by using moisture budget estimation. The data from 19 Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase‐6 (CMIP6) models are used for historical, intermediate (SSP2‐4.5), and high‐emission (SSP5‐8.5) scenarios and the changes are estimated for near (2021–2040), mid (2041–2060), and far‐future (2081–2100) relative to the historical (1995–2014) period for different monsoon sub‐domains. The findings reveal a significant increase in the intensity of EWMP in the ISM, projecting 2%–12% in SSP2‐4.5 and 8%–25% in SSP5‐8.5 for the far‐future. The enhanced vertical ascent of moisture (V‐Dyn) is found to be a dominant factor contributing more than 70% to EWMP in most sub‐domains. However, regardless of enhancement in intensity of precipitation, the models simulate a reduction in impact of the V‐Dyn by 10%–35% from the near to far‐future period, particularly in high emission scenarios. Vertical thermodynamic and non‐linear moisture advection components also play minor roles (<5% in historical), with their influence gradually increasing with future warming (>15% in SSP5‐8.5). The responses also vary regionally for components such as horizontal dynamic term, where it leads to precipitation offset in the northern regions, but causes enhanced precipitation in southern regions. The study highlights the spatial and temporal variability of moisture budgets of extreme wet Indian summer monsoon precipitation in a warming environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although Cloud‐radiative feedback (CRF) has been investigated in terms of its modulation of extreme precipitation over tropical oceans, the specific timeframe of CRF variability and the associated processes driving extreme rainfall over Asian monsoon regions remain unclear. Based on observational analyses and model sensitivity experiments, this study reveals that longwave CRF at the quasi‐biweekly timescale is most closely linked to the intensity of persistent (≥3‐day) heavy rainfall events in southern China and northern India by efficiently maintaining the large‐scale convective perturbations. When CRF is disabled, the quasi‐biweekly convective anomalies supporting extreme precipitation are weakened. Additional assessments of Coupled Model Intercomparison Project historical simulations confirm that models with more accurate quasi‐biweekly longwave CRF exhibit smaller biases in capturing the amplitude of persistent heavy rainfall. These results have implications for improving model capability in simulating and forecasting quasi‐biweekly CRF to mitigate the risks of extreme precipitation events in monsoonal Asia. Plain Language Summary: Persistent heavy rainfall (PHR) events, bringing prolonged heavy precipitation, pose substantial threats to densely populated regions such as the Asian summer monsoon area. Understanding the physical processes that influence the intensity of these events is crucial for improving the accuracy of models in simulating and forecasting such hazards. While previous studies highlight the importance of cloud‐radiative feedback (CRF) in extreme precipitation due to its influence on organized convection, the effective timeframe of CRF and the related moisture processes leading to extreme rainfall need clarification. Using observational data, we found that quasi‐biweekly convection maintained by longwave CRF is closely linked to PHR amounts in southern China and northern India. Model sensitivity experiments, in which longwave CRF was either included or excluded, indicate that CRF may intensify extreme rainfall by enhancing quasi‐biweekly convection and the moistening effect. Additionally, biases in the amplitude of PHR in state‐of‐the‐art coupled model historical simulations are positively correlated with biases in the models' longwave CRF intensity at the quasi‐biweekly timescale. These findings confirm that quasi‐biweekly CRF is vital for modulating extreme rainfall in monsoonal Asia. Therefore, improving the accuracy of models in representing CRF, particularly at the quasi‐biweekly timescale, is key to better simulating and predicting PHR. Key Points: Cloud‐radiative feedback (CRF) at the quasi‐biweekly timescale is closely linked with extreme rainfall intensity in monsoonal AsiaDisabling CRF leads to a weakening of extreme rainfall events, which are supported by quasi‐biweekly convection and moisture convergenceCoupled Model Intercomparison Project models with more accurate simulations of longwave CRF amplitude better capture monsoonal extreme rainfall events [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A number of recent studies have highlighted how radiative feedback from clouds accelerates tropical cyclone (TC) development by amplifying spatial gradients in radiative heating. This study extends this work by examining how spatial gradients in free tropospheric moisture influence TC development through their impact on environmental radiative heating. We conduct a series of idealized model experiments in which only the longwave radiative heating due to water vapor is modified in the environmental region outside of the TC area. These experiments demonstrate that a vortex in a drier environmental free troposphere experiences faster development. Moreover, weaker vortices actually require a dry environmental free troposphere to develop. The accelerated genesis mainly results from a stronger spatial gradient in moisture‐induced radiative heating, which enhances energy convergence through a stronger transverse circulation. These results highlight a potentially important and overlooked role of dry air in facilitating TC genesis. Plain Language Summary: Recent studies have shown that clouds play an important role in making hurricanes stronger by affecting how heat is distributed. This study builds on that work by looking at how moisture in the environmental air away from the storm center also influences hurricane development through its impact on heat distribution. Computer simulations in which only the heating due to the absorption of infrared heat by water vapor outside the hurricane area was varied showed that hurricanes with drier environmental air develop faster. Further analysis revealed that this faster development is mainly because of a stronger difference in how heat is distributed due to moisture. Our results suggest that dry air might play a crucial and overlooked role in helping hurricanes form. Key Points: Dry environment accelerates tropical cyclone genesis through moisture‐induced gradients in radiative heatingA dry environmental free troposphere enhances the radiative heating gradient between TC area and its surroundingsThe moisture‐induced radiative feedback enhances the energy convergence and is critical to TC genesis in the early stages of development [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Background Aims Patients/Methods Results Conclusions Halobacteria trueperi, an extremophilic microorganism thriving in high‐salt environments, produces extracellular polysaccharides with potential anti‐inflammatory and anti‐aging properties. However, its clinical efficacy in skin improvement remains unclear. This study focuses on H. trueperi TCI66207, isolated from the Pacific Ocean at a depth of 662 m near Hualien, and its potential to enhance skin parameters, aiming to develop a novel functional formulation for pharmaceutical and cosmetic use.This sudy aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy of H. trueperi TCI66207 on various skin parameters and its potential for developing new functional cosmetic formulations.A total of 40 subjects were recruited and randomly divided into two groups: the test group applied a serum containing H. trueperi TCI66207, while the placebo group used a basic serum. Subjects were instructed to apply the serum twice daily for 4 weeks. Skin parameters, including moisture, brightness, elasticity, pigmentation (spots and UV spots), texture, wrinkles, pores, and collagen density, were assessed before and after the 4‐week application period.After 4 weeks of using the H. trueperi TCI66207 serum, significant improvements were observed in all measured skin parameters compared to baseline, with notable enhancements in moisture, brightness, elasticity, texture, and collagen density, along with reductions in wrinkles, spots, and pore size.Halobacteria trueperi TCI66207 serum demonstrates a clear ability to improve skin conditions and delay signs of aging, making it a promising candidate for the development of new cosmetic formulations with potent anti‐aging and skin‐rejuvenating properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The aim of the present study was to texturise protein from sunflower press cake (SPC) for being consumed as dry snack or, in its hydrated state, as a meat analogue. In preliminary experiments, feed moisture (15–25 g 100 g−1) and extrusion temperature (180 °C–200 °C) were varied when processing commercial sunflower protein flour with a protein content of 51.8 g per 100 g dry matter using low moisture single‐screw extrusion. The extrudates were analysed with regard to specific mechanical energy needs, texture properties in dry and hydrated state, colour, expansion ratio and water binding capacity. Extrusion parameters for achieving maximum expansion, textural force and minimal product moisture were found to be 180 °C and 15 g 100 g−1. Consequently, texturised protein was derived from deoiled SPC using these extrusion parameters. Initial deoiling of the press cake was necessary as it improved texturisation; a higher SME input reached led to increased cross‐linking of the protein matrix. The light coloured and significantly expanded extrudates with high water binding capacity and could serve as basis for further development of snack products or meat analogues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of long and flexible polyether chains in epoxy resins is an effective method to improve their toughness. However, using the hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity of polyether chains to tune their moisture resistance has been overlooked currently. In this work, two types of polyether‐based diglycidyl ethers with hydrophilic poly(oxyethylene) (DGEPOE) and relatively hydrophobic poly(oxybutylene) segments (DGEPOB) are synthesized and then binary‐cured with commercial diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA), respectively, yielding the corresponding DGEPOE:DGEBA‐m:ns and DGEPOB:DGEBA‐m:ns based on various ratios. For comparison, pure DGEPOEr, DGEPOBr, and DGEBAr resins are also prepared. Results show that the equilibrium water uptake of DGEPOB:DGEBA‐m:ns is at least less than one‐fifth of that of DGEPOE:DGEBA‐m:ns; meanwhile, the diffusion coefficients of water molecules in DGEPOB:DGEBA‐m:ns are also 1–2 orders of magnitude lower than those in DGEPOE:DGEBA‐m:ns, demonstrating that the incorporation of hydrophobic POB chains can significantly reduce the hygroscopicity of resins. Moreover, DGEPOB:DGEBA‐m:ns not only exhibit superior flexibility and ductility relative to pure DGEBAr, but display exceptional strength and toughness in comparison with pure DGEPOBr. These findings suggest that tuning the hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity of building units of epoxy monomers offers a promising strategy for developing high‐performance epoxy materials, especially suitable for humid environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solution‐processed perovskite films generally possess small grain sizes and high density of grain boundaries, which intensify non‐radiative recombination of carriers and limit the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of solar cells. In this study, we report the room‐temperature ripening enabled by the synergy of hygroscopic salts and moisture in air for efficient hole‐conductor‐free printable mesoscopic perovskite solar cells (p‐MPSCs). Treating perovskite films with proper hygroscopic salts in damp air induces obvious secondary recrystallization, which coarsens the grains size from hundreds of nanometers to several micrometers. It's proposed that the hygroscopic salt at grain boundaries could absorb moisture and form a complex which could not only serve as mass transfer channel but also assist in the dissolution of perovskite grains. This activates mass transfer between small grains and large grains since they possess different solubilities, and thus ripens the perovskite film. Consequently, p‐MPSCs treated with the hygroscopic salt of NH4SCN show an improved power conversion efficiency of 20.13 % from 17.94 %, and maintain >98 % of the initial efficiency under maximum power point tracking at 55±5 °C for 350 hours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT In this study, the characteristics of tropical cyclones (TCs) over the Bay of Bengal (BoB) that affect snowfall on the Tibetan Plateau (TP) and spatiotemporal distribution of snowfall related to BoB TCs are statistically analysed by using multi‐sources data from 1981 to 2020, with partitioning TC‐influenced snowfall by tracking cloud clusters. The results show that 141 TCs formed during the 40‐year period of 1981–2020, of which about 35% (50 TCs) impacted snowfall at 83% of meteorological stations on the TP during their northward or westward movement, and the average distance between the TC centre and the snowfall stations is 1277 km. The proportion of snowfall‐related TC frequency shows a significantly decreasing trend with a predominant cycle of 10a. The TC‐influenced snowfall frequency (SF), precipitation amount (PA) on a snowfall day and snow depth (SD) during 1981–2020 all show a non‐significant weak decreasing trend, while TC‐influenced snowfall is significantly increased in the eastern and southern edges of Xizang, western Sichuan and the southern margin of Qinghai. PA and SD in December account for more than 75% and 55% of the monthly total, respectively. The spatial pattern of PA could be objectively categorised into west‐type (24%) and southeast‐type (76%). The moisture transported by the BoB TC and a southerly jet stream formed between the trough and the western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH), the convergence of cold air and warm–moist airstream over the TP and the change in position of the south Asian high in the upper troposphere are significant factors causing the different spatial distribution. The results can provide reference for TC‐related snowfall, SD prediction and disaster assessment on the TP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The East African "short rains" from October–December (OND) are crucial for the region's cultural and agricultural landscape. Traditional climate studies have often treated these rains as a single mode, representing the average rainfall across the region. This approach, however, fails to capture the complex geographical variations in seasonal rainfall. In our study, we analyse 4200 reforecasts from a seasonal prediction system spanning 1981–2022, identifying distinct clusters that represent different geographical patterns of the short rains. We explore the influence of tropical sea‐surface temperature patterns, upper‐level tropospheric flow, and low‐level moisture fluxes on these clusters. A key revelation of our research is the limited predictability of certain geographical rainfall structures based on large‐scale climatic drivers. This finding highlights a gap in current forecasting methodologies, emphasising the necessity for further research to understand and predict these intricate patterns. Our study illuminates the complexities of regional rainfall variability in East Africa, underlining the importance of continued investigation to improve climate resilience strategies in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Millennium‐long hydroclimate reconstructions in the Qaidam Basin (QB) and Hexi Corridor (HXC) suggest markedly differing moisture change trends between the two regions in the 20th century; however, it remains unclear whether these current moisture states are exceptional in a long‐term context, and how megadrought and pluvial events have evolved in these regions. Here, we used previously published historical hydroclimate reconstructions combined with model‐based future moisture simulations to assess past, current and future hydroclimate anomalies in a long‐term context (i.e., 455–2100 CE), and investigate the evolution of megadrought and pluvial events. Compared with the QB, moisture variability in the HXC was higher and more prone to the occurrence of severe and long‐lasting megadrought and pluvial events. Megadroughts in the QB mainly occurred in the Little Ice Age (1200–1800 CE) accompanied by lower temperatures, whereas in the HXC, megadroughts mostly occurred during the Medieval Climate Anomaly (800–1200 CE) accompanied by higher temperatures. The Significant Zero crossing of derivatives (SiZer) and Time of Emergence (TOE) analyses were used to reveal the initiation of recent humidity changes and the duration above the natural variability threshold. We found that the QB has experienced a significant wetting trend since the middle of the 20th century, with this trend exceeding the range of natural hydroclimate variability in 1975 CE. The HXC became drier from the early 20th century, but has become wetter since the late 20th century; this trend may exceed the natural hydroclimate variability range by 2032 CE. We also found that the duration and severity of megadrought and pluvial events are positively correlated in each region. Given the higher past hydrological variability in the HXC compared with the QB, our study implies that future extreme hydrological events are more likely to occur in the former of these two regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The storms over the Bay of Bengal (BoB) often combine with the weather systems such as the South Branch Trough (SBT) and the West Pacific Subtropical High (WPSH) to transport plenty of moisture inducing extreme precipitation on the Tibetan Plateau (TP). Determining the fine moisture structures of storms helps understand mechanism of this kind of extreme precipitation. An extreme precipitation occurred on the TP influenced by storm Rashmi (2008). A Lagrangian approach is scrutinized the forward and backward moisture transport trajectories of Rashmi and the TP, respectively. The moisture source of this extreme precipitation is relatively clear, which comes from the collaborative influence of Rashmi with the southwest jet generated by the SBT and the WPSH. Utilizing a three‐dimensional K‐means clustering method devised in this study, the Rashmi's forward trajectories are classified into three categories, the particles ascending with the northward movement of Rashmi (45%), consistently below 1 km (37.5%), and rapidly ascending into the southwest jet stream (17.5%). Notably, 97.5%, 1.2%, and 91% of these categories impact the TP, respectively. The moisture transport structure of storm is verified by backward tracking of moisture over the TP. In addition, the three‐dimensional moisture trajectories classification method is recommended when trajectories suffer rapid altitude changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cavernous weathering forms have long been studied and discussed as enigmas in geomorphology. Recently, their evolution has been shown to be controlled by moisture patterns, which are still poorly understood. For the first time, capillary water and vapor fluxes were characterized in detail at tafone in a temperate climate of central Europe using a wide range of methods adapted from soil hydrology. Time domain reflectometry showed that moisture flows from the rock interior to the evaporation front in the shallow subsurface of both — the backwalls and the outer surface. When overland flow occurs on the outer surfaces (after heavy rains), 10 mm/day can infiltrate and flow toward the backwalls. The main sources of water for tafone are the influx of water from the rock interior and the infiltration of overland flow after heavy rains, while condensation of air humidity is a minor source. Influx from the rock interior is coupled to the evaporation rate, which varies between 100 and 300 kg/m2/year in summer and less than 15 kg/m2/year in winter. More water evaporates from the backwall of the tafone than from the outer surface, and more salt is deposited in the backwalls, resulting in predominant salt weathering in the backwalls. The tafoni studied thus evolve, and the cavities deepen. Tafoni in arid and semi‐arid environments generally show a much higher contrast between evaporation rates from backwalls and outer surfaces than tafoni and honeycombs in temperate and coastal environments. Tafoni in temperate settings are therefore more susceptible to degradation when evaporation decreases or inflow to the tafone increases. This study also shows that microtensiometers can be used to determine moisture content with high spatial resolution, while time domain reflectometry allows accurate characterization of moisture patterns with depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the mechanisms for the long‐lived and medium‐lived regional consecutive cloudy‐rainy events (RCCREs) in the Yangtze‐Huaihe River valley (YHRV) are investigated by comparing the influences of 10–30‐day and 30–90‐day intraseasonal oscillations (ISOs). The evolution of medium‐lived RCCREs is generally dominated by the 10–30‐day ISO, while the 10–30‐day and 30–90‐day ISOs synergistically contribute to the occurrence of long‐lived RCCREs. Further analysis reveals that, when the East Asian westerly jet (EAWJ) shifts northward to the north of YHRV, a RCCRE in the YHRV occurs in 2 days later. In the medium‐lived RCCREs, the EAWJ retreats southward rapidly; while in the long‐lived RCCREs, the stronger 30–90‐day ISO prevents the southward retreat of EAWJ, which favors the persistence of the RCCREs in the YHRV. The northward shifted EAWJ facilitates the RCCREs by modulating the secondary atmospheric circulation, consequently enhancing the moisture convergence and ascending motion anomalies over the YHRV. The RCCREs‐related precursor wave train originates from northern Europe with at least a 4‐day lead. The wave train propagates southeastward to excite an anomalous high over East Asia, which contributes to the northward shift of EAWJ and subsequently the occurrence of RCCREs. Different from the rapid weakness of the precursor wave train associated with the medium‐lived RCCREs, the precursor wave train associated with the long‐lived RCCREs can be maintained by the 30–90‐day ISO, which consequently leads to a persistence of the northward located EAWJ and long‐lived RCCREs in the YHRV. Plain Language Summary: Regional consecutive cloudy‐rainy events (RCCREs) have a disastrous impact on economy, agriculture, and natural environment over the Yangtze‐Huaihe River valley (YHRV). This study investigates the mechanisms contributing to the long‐ and medium‐lived RCCREs in the YHRV by comparing the role of 10–30‐day and 30–90‐day intraseasonal oscillations (ISOs). The medium‐lived RCCREs are dominated by the 10–30‐day ISO, while the long‐lived RCCREs are caused by a combination of the 10–30‐day and 30–90‐day ISOs. The East Asian westerly jet (EAWJ) plays a crucial role in RCCRE occurrence. When the EAWJ shifts northward, it triggers RCCREs by enhancing moisture convergence and ascending motion over the YHRV. The EAWJ retreats southward rapidly in the medium‐lived RCCREs. Conversely, the stronger 30–90‐day ISO prevents its southward retreat in the long‐lived RCCREs, favoring the persistence of RCCRE in the YHRV. Additionally, the precursor wave train originating from northern Europe contributes to the northward shift of the EAWJ and the occurrence of the RCCREs over the YHRV. Although both the long‐ and medium‐lived RCCREs exhibit similar precursor wave train, the influence of different ISOs varies, with the 30–90‐day ISO showing a larger impact on the precursor wave train and northward shift of the EAWJ in the long‐lived RCCREs. Key Points: Medium (long)‐lived RCCREs are mainly influenced by 10–30‐day intraseasonal oscillation (ISO) (both 10–30‐day and 30–90‐day ISOs)In the long (medium)‐lived RCCREs, the East Asian westerly jet (EAWJ) remains stable (retreats southward rapidly) after shifting northwardThe precursor wave train of the medium‐lived RCCREs weakens rapidly, while that of the long‐lived RCCREs is maintained by 30–90‐day ISO [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the influences of intraseasonal oscillation on two types of regional extreme consecutive dry days events (RECDD) in spring over Southern China (SC). For type‐1 RECDD occurring in entire SC, the 7–25 days and 25–90 days high over Lake Balkhash‐Baikal are important. The 7–25 days high first causes lower‐tropospheric northerlies and moisture deficit in SC, then propagates to Yangtze River Basin and causes lower‐tropospheric warming and decaying moisture deficit in SC. These processes favor dry condition in SC for 1 week. In comparison, the 25–90 days high and associated lower‐tropospheric warming and moisture deficit in SC favor dry condition there for more than one week. For type‐2 RECDD occurring in the southern part of SC, the 7–25 days and 25–90 days high over Northeast Asia are important. The 7–25 days high contributes for one week. It first causes lower‐tropospheric anticyclone around the East China Sea and south‐negative–north‐positive moisture pattern in SC, then propagates to the Sea of Japan and causes lower‐tropospheric south‐warming–north‐cooling pattern and decaying south‐negative–north‐positive moisture pattern in SC. In comparison, the 25–90 days high and associated lower‐tropospheric south‐warming–north‐cooling pattern and south‐negative–north‐positive moisture pattern in SC favor south‐dry–north‐wet pattern there for more than one week. Moreover, the 7–25 days low and decaying 25–90 days high over Lake Balkhash‐Baikal, concurring with 7–25 days low over Bay of Bengal, favor the end of type‐1 RECDD; the 7–25 days low and decaying 25–90 days high over Northeast Asia favor the end of type‐2 RECDD. Plain Language Summary: The extreme consecutive dry days with long duration could increase the risk of drought, even if the mean precipitation does not show significant change. In this study, we identify two types of regional extreme consecutive dry days events in spring over Southern China (type‐1 occurs in entire Southern China, type‐2 occurs in southern part of Southern China), with the aim of understanding the direct physical processes responsible for the persistence of extreme consecutive dry days. The results show that anomalous high over Lake Balkhash‐Baikal/Northeast Asia on two time‐scales (7–25 days and 25–90 days) are important for the persistence of type‐1/type‐2 events. In comparison, the 7–25 days high favors the persistence of regional events for approximately one week, whereas the 25–90 days high favors longer. Moreover, the 7–25 days low and decaying 25–90 days high over Lake Balkhash‐Baikal, combined with 7–25 days low over Bay of Bengal, provide a favorable condition for the end of type‐1 events. The 7–25 days low and decaying 25–90 days high over Northeast Asia favor the end of type‐2 events. Key Points: Two types of regional extreme consecutive dry days events in Southern China (SC) are identified in this study7–25 days high over Lake Balkhash‐Baikal/Northeast Asia favors type‐1/type‐2 events for one week, and 25–90 days high over there favors longer7–25 days low over Lake Balkhash‐Baikal/Northeast Asia, combined with decaying 25–90 days high there, favors the end of type‐1/type‐2 events [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edamame is a nutritious and economically valuable soybean. The moisture content is an important indicator of the quality of the edamame. The traditional methods in the detection of moisture content of edamame have the disadvantage of large detection errors. In this research, the fusion of transmittance and reflectance spectra of hyperspectral imaging combined with chemometrics was proposed to predict the moisture content of edamame. Also, the effect of different preprocessing of the spectra on the predictive performance was analyzed. Single spectra, primary fusion spectra, and intermediate fusion spectra were established as the prediction models for partial least squares regression (PLSR) and partial least squares support vector regression (LSSVR), respectively. The results of the prediction models showed that the spectral transform absorption (STA) combined with PLSR has the best prediction performance for a single spectrum with predictive correlation (RP) of 0.7749 and ratio of prediction to deviation (RPD) of 1.7. Standard normal variate (SNV) combined with LSSVR has the best prediction performance for primary fusion spectra with RP of 0.8821 and RPD of 1.9. SNV combined with LSSVR has the best prediction performance for intermediate fusion spectra with RP of 0.9149 and RPD of 2.4. The Rp and RPD of prediction models of the moisture content of edamame based on fusion spectra were significantly improved compared with single spectra. Compared with primary fusion, intermediate fusion is a more suitable fusion strategy. This research provides experimental basis for the prediction of moisture content of edamame using spectral fusion combined with chemometrics. Fusion spectra have higher model detection results than single spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims to comprehend the effect of the various combinations of 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (3,4‐DHPA) and its esters in varying molar ratios on retarding oxidation in bulk refined fish oil in the presence of 0.3% w/w water. All the esters and 3,4‐DHPA exhibited better performance than the synthetic antioxidant butylated hydroxytoluene. In the presence of trace water, the parent compound was found to have a synergistic effect with hexyl ester when used at a molar ratio of 2:1, respectively, exhibiting a higher percent reduction among all the esters and their combinations. The study also showed that the presence of extraneous water can significantly accelerate the oxidation (twofold) in a bulk fish oil system. This suggests that the microenvironment of the oil is altered when water is present and that association colloids play a key role in enhancing the rate of oxidation. Thus, while designing a competent mixture of antioxidants, the specific site of oxidation involved and the surface‐active components should be taken into consideration to efficiently retard oxidation. Practical Applications: Analyzing the impact of trace amounts of water on the efficiency of natural antioxidants, including 3,4‐DHPA and its lipophilic esters, helps to comprehend the required optimal antioxidant concentrations for such a dynamic bulk oil system. The study finds application in controlling oxidation in PUFA‐rich oils containing surface‐active minor components that can accelerate oxidation. The results of the study show that 3,4‐DHPA and its esters could be a potential replacement for the synthetic antioxidant BHT in all aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Karl Fischer titration (KF) measures the water content in organic and inorganic compounds. Water reacts with a titrant solution containing iodine and a sulphurous monoalkyl ester to produce a monoalkyl sulphate ester and HI. In volumetric titrators, a burette injects the titrant directly into a cell while coulometric titrators generate titrant in situ. Regardless of the volume of the sample, volumetric titration is limited to 100 mg, while coulometric titration is best suited for >2mg. KF is fast (<2min), considered accurate (±5%), and precise (<1%). However, factors such as humidity, non‐standard analytes (hexane, isopropanol, ethylene glycol), tritrant composition, and temperature compromise its repeatability: the % sample standard deviation, s (n=4), varied from 2% to 60% (s¯=22%,nconditions=19). This high variability is, in part, due to the experimental design that included samples and conditions ill‐suited for the technique. However, even for the tests for which KF is suitable, s¯>10%. Certain compounds react with the titrant, which increases the variability. The main sources of error affecting the analysis are ambient moisture, pH, solvent, sample handling, and titration speed. As of 2023, the Web of Science has indexed 1332 articles with Karl Fischer as a key word (Topic), but more than 3600 mentioning the technique (All fields). A bibliometric analysis classifies these contributions into five clusters: spectroscopy, stability, temperature, solubility, and mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The rapid and accurate detection of moisture content is important to ensure maize quality. However, existing technologies for rapidly detecting moisture content often suffer from the use of costly equipment, stringent environmental requirements, or limited accuracy. This study proposes a simple and effective method for detecting the moisture content of single maize kernels based on viscoelastic properties. RESULTS: Two types of viscoelastic experiments were conducted involving three different parameters: relaxation tests (initial loads: 60, 80, 100 N) and frequency‐sweep tests (frequencies: 0.6, 0.8, 1 Hz). These experiments generated corresponding force‐time graphs and viscoelastic parameters were extracted based on the four‐element Maxwell model. Then, viscoelastic parameters and data of force‐time graphs were employed as input variables to explore the relationships with moisture content separately. The impact of different preprocessing methods and feature time variables on model accuracy was explored based on force‐time graphs. The results indicate that models utilizing the force‐time data were more accurate than those utilizing viscoelastic parameters. The best model was established by partial least squares regression based on S‐G smoothing data from relaxation tests conducted with initial force of 100 N. The correlation coefficient and the root mean square error of the calibration set were 0.954 and 0.021, respectively. The corresponding values of the prediction set were 0.905 and 0.029, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms the potential for accurate and fast detection of moisture content in single maize kernels using viscoelastic properties, which provides a novel approach for the detection of various components in cereals. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drawing inspiration from nature has served as a crucial driving force behind human progress, enabling groundbreaking advancements and cross‐disciplinary integration through the emulation of biological superhydrophobic phenomena. Bioinspired superhydrophobic triboelectric materials stand out among advanced triboelectric materials due to their unique hydrophobic properties, exceptional moisture resistance, and remarkable electrical performance. However, the inherent complexity of natural phenomena and the need for refinement in bioinspired design pose significant challenges in the development of bioinspired superhydrophobic triboelectric materials. This comprehensive review delves into bioinspired superhydrophobic triboelectric materials from the perspectives of theoretical underpinnings, fabrication strategies, and cutting‐edge applications. Rooted in the interaction mechanisms between water molecules and triboelectric materials, the importance of enhanced hydrophobic properties is elucidated. A systematic overview of bioinspired superhydrophobic triboelectric materials’ construction strategies is presented, offering fresh perspectives and insights into the development and application of high‐performance triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). Finally, the current challenges and untapped opportunities in bioinspired superhydrophobic triboelectric materials are summarized to fully unlock their potential for applications in TENGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effects of sea spray on extreme precipitation forecast in Beijing of China between 28 July and 2 August 2023 as a case test. In this case, fully coupled model increased upward moisture in the Bohai and Yellow Seas and increased accumulated rainfall by 21% in North China. For the extreme precipitation events with the 5‐day accumulated precipitation exceeding 500 mm, the atmosphere‐only model did not forecast the events; the coupled model without sea spray performed well with the 0.29 threat score (TS) and 88 mm root mean square error (RMSE); in the fully coupled model, the effects of sea spray increased atmospheric instability, which increased the precipitation around Beijing and yielded a more accurate forecast with the 0.37 TS and 65 mm RMSE. This paper suggests a scientific clue to improve numerical simulation for extreme rainfall events, however, more cases are still needed for statistical evaluation. Plain Language Summary: Although meteorological forecasting ability has been improved considerably during the past decades, precipitation during extreme events remains typically underestimated. Improving model accuracy for heavy rainfall events is, indeed, a ground challenge. In this study, we conducted three numerical experiments under different conditions to evaluate the effects of sea spray on extreme precipitation forecasts for the Beijing extreme rainfall event between 28 July and 2 August 2023. Our results indicated that for this 5‐day forecasting case, including sea spray in the simulations enhanced precipitation in North China by transporting more moisture from the Bohai and Yellow Seas upward into the atmosphere. The moister and warmer air caused by sea spray effects was transported to Beijing through northwestward wind and lifted by the local terrain, then caused a more unstable atmosphere and higher intensity of precipitation around Beijing. By using statistical indicators and setting different precipitation thresholds for this extreme rainfall case, we determined that in this case, the fully coupled model including sea spray yielded more accurate forecast. To statistically evaluate the effects of sea spray in extreme precipitation forecasts, more cases are still needed. Key Points: Fully coupled model led more upward moisture in the Bohai and Yellow Seas and increased 5‐day accumulated rainfall by 21% in North ChinaFully coupled model improved the forecasting threat score from 0 to 0.37 with the 5‐day accumulated precipitation exceeding 500 mmSea spray led to more unstable atmosphere for the Beijing extreme rainfall event, yielding a more accurate forecast [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic–inorganic composites have important applications, especially in the area of bonded abrasives. They exhibit mechanical performances that cannot be achieved with organic materials alone and present an extremely stable performance, even at elevated temperatures. In this summary of our studies, we focus on the exceptional mechanical properties achieved by incorporating inorganic particles into a crosslinked matrix consisting of phenolic resin. A crosslinker such as hexamethylenetetramine reacts with the phenolic resins to form a stable 3‐dimensional matrix to "glue" the inorganic particles together. In order to achieve such uniform dispersion of the seemingly incompatible reacting components, a plasticizer, or wetting liquid, is usually employed. We have developed several environmentally appropriate wetting liquids that have proved to be superior to the traditionally used toxic substances. Some of the reactive wetting liquids used even enhanced the mechanical properties of the resulting composites by contributing additional crosslinks to the final reacted systems. A combination of techniques including the use of low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance has been used to characterize the curing process and assess the changes in mechanical properties at the molecular level. Detailed studies characterized the effects of moisture on the curing process and changes in mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the eastern Indo‐Gangetic plains, chickpea is grown postrice cultivation mostly under rainfed condition with residual soil moisture which adversely affects branching as well as pod and seed development, ultimately resulting in substantial yield losses. The current study analysed the moisture stress response of 12 chickpea genotypes with control for different morpho‐physiological traits in two sets of field experiments carried out during the year 2017–18 and 2018–19. The current study observed varying response of chickpea genotypes under moisture stress condition with average yield reduction from 11.79% to 24.77%. Mean yield of genotypes under stress condition showed a strong positive association with yield index (1.00**) and stress tolerance index (0.915**). The biplot principal component analysis revealed maximum potential of three chickpea genotypes (DBGC 1, Pusa 256 and DBGC 2) for grain yield and biological yield under moisture stress condition. The correlation analysis showed a significant association of yield with physiological parameters such as photosynthetic rate (0.363**), stomatal conductance (0.364**) and transpiration rate (0.292*). The three higher yielding genotypes relatively maintained biological yield, yield plant−1, 100 seed weight and photosynthesis rate and showed reduced rates of stomatal conductance and transpiration under moisture stress condition. The study found variable genotypic response to moisture stress and showed that yield index as well as stress tolerance index was more effective to identify superior genotypes for moisture stress condition. The superior genotypes identified in the present study may be considered for rainfed areas of eastern Indo‐Gangetic plains and can be used in future chickpea breeding programs for drought tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of high pressure (0.1–600 MPa) and pulsed electric field (E = 3 and 6 kV cm−1) pretreatments on the moisture absorption properties of non‐hulled wheat grains were investigated. Microwave sensor was used as a non‐invasive technique for determination of the moisture content. The results demonstrated that high pressure soaking (>100 MPa) of wheat grains significantly increased the water uptake. High pressure soaking (600 MPa) decreased the water uptake due to the starch gelatinization and as a result appearance of structural changes. Compared to control samples, PEF‐pretreated samples showed a sharp increase of water absorption at the initial process with a further reduction of equilibrium water content. Peleg's water absorption model was adapted to the measured data of non‐hulled wheat grains. Results showed a good prediction of Peleg's equation in all experiments, which gave the possibility for estimation of initial water absorption rate and equilibrium moisture content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to investigate the impact of the osmotic effect on the drying and rehydration of paneer. The paneer slices were pre‐treated with salt at seven different concentrations and surface treatments. The osmotic solution and product ratio was taken as 1:4 and the pretreatment time was fixed as 12 h. Weight loss (WL), solute gain (SG), and weight reduction (WR) of paneer were evaluated during osmotic pretreatment. The pretreated paneer was dried at 50°C in a tray dryer. The equilibrium moisture content of dried slices varied from 14.12% to 15.86% and the moisture diffusivity of the osmotic treated samples had a better result with maximum value of 4.76 × 10−8 m2/s. The osmotic pretreatment minimized the drying time of paneer. The Midilli model revealed the best fit for drying paneer slices with R2 value >.99. Rehydration was carried out at three different temperatures at 4, 28, and 100°C. The samples rehydrated at 28°C showed better results in terms of the rehydration ratio with a maximal value of 1.85. In model investigation, the Peleg, Exponential, and Weibull model was found good fit for samples rehydrated at 4, 28, and 100°C. The osmotic pretreatment impacted positively on the quality matrices such as color retention, drying time, nutritional profile, and rehydration ratio of paneer slices. However, the higher osmotic pretreatments above 12% recorded unacceptable salty flavor. Practical applications: The stability of paneer is limited and it requires refrigeration facility to store the paneer which is a frailty factor in supply chain cycle of dairy industries. In current practices, the high‐cost freeze drying technique was used to dry the paneer to make as shelf stable. The conventional drying techniques would not suit for drying the paneer, that alters the characteristics of paneer. The research findings will improve the characteristics of dried paneer in conventional dryer and hence, it is viable to make the shelf stable paneer at low cost. This research would make an alternative approach to manufacture the shelf stable and ready to eat paneer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurately simulating moisture transport in summer over the TP is uncertain for current numerical models with one important factor being horizontal resolution. In this study, in order to investigate the moisture transport across scales, three experiments are conducted for summer of 2015 using a global variable‐resolution model (MPAS‐A), including one with globally quasi‐uniform resolution of 60 km (U60km) and two with regional refinements over the TP at resolutions of 16 km (V16km) and 4 km (V4km). The wet bias of summer rainfall within the TP increase from U60km to V16km but is significantly improved in V4km. One important source of rainfall bias is the moisture transport across scales. The differences in moisture transport among three simulations are significantly influenced by the changes in wind fields through the Himalayas and eastern TP in two layers, 700–600 and 600–400 hPa, which is largely modulated by their difference in large‐scale circulations particularly monsoon depression. At convection‐parameterized scale (from 60 to 16 km), the scale‐aware Grell‐Freitas convection scheme produces more rainfall and latent heat due to its large sensitivity to the integrating timestep. This sensitivity along with further resolved dynamical processes, collectively strengthen the monsoon depression to the south of TP and make it shift northward in conjunction with the mid‐latitude westerlies. With resolution increasing to convection‐permitting scale (from 16 to 4 km), the resolved moist convection releases significantly less latent heat and then reproduces a weaker monsoon depression. This causes a discrepancy that exceeds the resolution‐related difference at convection‐parameterized scale. Plain Language Summary: Summer moisture transport is crucial for the water cycle over the TP. Three experiments are conducted for summer of 2015 using a global variable‐resolution model, which can use smaller grid‐spacing over focus regions to get more details of atmospheric processes. The numerical experiments vary in the grid‐spacing, including one with a globally uniform grid‐spacing of 60 km, and the other two with smaller grid‐spacing of 16 and 4 km over the TP. The summer rainfall within the TP at 4 km shows the closest agreement with observation. The differences among three experiments are strongly linked with wind through the Himalayas and eastern TP in the lower and middle troposphere. Atmospheric systems especially monsoon depression vary in simulations with different grid‐spacing and hence change wind fields. With grid‐spacing at tens of kilometers, convection parameterization generates more latent heat and air motion in the model becomes more resolved with smaller grid‐spacing so that monsoon depression is stronger and shifts northward along with mid‐latitude westerlies. With grid‐spacing at a few kilometers, modeling air motion can directly simulate convective processes without convective parameterization, which releases less latent heat and generates weaker monsoon depression to the south of TP compared to coarser grid‐spacing. Key Points: Moisture transport is influenced by difference in simulated large‐scale circulations particularly monsoon depression across various scalesAt convection‐parameterized scale, monsoon depression is enhanced with increasing resolution due to sensitivity of GF scheme to timestepAt convection‐permitting scale, the resolved moist convection and its associated less latent heat lead to weaker monsoon depression [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we explore the impact of oceanic moisture fluxes on atmospheric blocks using the ECMWF IFS. Artificially suppressing surface latent heat flux over the Gulf Stream (GS) region reduces atmospheric blocking frequency across the Northern Hemisphere by up to 30%. Affected blocks show a shorter lifespan (−6%), smaller spatial extent (−10%), and reduced intensity (−0.4%), with an increased number of individual blocking anticyclones (+17%). These findings are robust across various blocking detection thresholds. Analysis reveals a qualitatively consistent response across all resolutions, with Tco639 (∼18 km) showing the largest statistically significant change across all blocking characteristics, although differences between resolutions are not statistically significant. Exploring the broader Rossby wave pattern, we observe that diminished moisture fluxes favor eastward propagation and higher zonal wavenumbers, while air‐sea interactions promote stationary and westward‐propagating waves with zonal wavenumber 3. This study underscores the critical role of the GS in modulating atmospheric blocking. Plain Language Summary: In our study, we investigated how changes in oceanic moisture, specifically from the Gulf Stream (GS), affect atmospheric blocking events using the ECMWF Integrated Forecast System. By artificially reducing the moisture flux from the GS area, we observed a notable decrease in the occurrence of atmospheric blocks across the Northern Hemisphere‐up to 30%. These blocks also showed changes in their characteristics: they had shorter durations by 6%, were 10% smaller in spatial size, and had a slight decrease in intensity, alongside a 17% increase in their detection rates. Our findings were consistent across different methods of identifying blocks. We also discovered that the model's resolution influences the observed changes, with coarser resolutions (larger than approximately 18 km) not showing significant alterations in some blocking traits despite the overall frequency reduction. Further analysis into Rossby wave patterns revealed that reduced moisture flux tends to favor faster eastward‐moving patterns with shorter wavelengths, whereas interactions between the air and sea support more stationary or westward‐moving waves, particularly those with a zonal wavenumber of 3. This highlights the crucial role that moisture from western boundary currents like the GS plays in the development and behavior of atmospheric blocking patterns. Key Points: Gulf Stream (GS) moisture flux suppression reduces atmospheric blocking across the Northern HemisphereGS moisture fluxes generate larger jet stream perturbations, fostering faster westward‐propagating Rossby wavesHigher resolution models enhance signal transport from the boundary layer to the upper troposphere [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atmospheric rivers (ARs) are known to produce both beneficial and extreme rainfall, leading to natural hazards in Chile. Motivated to understand moisture transport during AR events, this study performs a moisture budget analysis along 50 zonally elongated ARs reaching the western coast of South America. We identify the convergence of moist air masses of tropical/subtropical origin along the AR as the primary source of vertically integrated water vapor (IWV). Over the open ocean, moisture convergence is nearly balanced by precipitation. The advection of moisture along the AR, although smaller compared to mass convergence, significantly increases toward the landfalling region. The near conservation of IWV over the open ocean, observed by tracking a Lagrangian atmospheric column along the ARs, is the explanation behind the seemingly tropical origin of ARs in time‐lapse visualizations of IWV. Plain Language Summary: Imagine atmospheric rivers (ARs) as massive, flowing rivers in the sky, but instead of water, they carry vapor from the ocean. When these "sky rivers" travel and hit the Andes Mountains in South America, they can cause a lot of rain and snow to fall. This precipitation is often good because it helps fill reservoirs and water crops. However, sometimes there's too much rain, leading to floods and landslides, which can be dangerous. Over the ocean, the amount of water vapor these atmospheric rivers pick up is almost exactly balanced by the rain that falls from them. As these atmospheric rivers get closer to South America, the movement of moisture along the river, though generally less significant than the gathering of moist air, becomes more pronounced. This means that as the atmospheric river approaches the land, it starts carrying more moisture toward its destination. We were able to see this process in action by following a moving "slice" of the atmosphere (a Lagrangian atmospheric column) as it travels along the path of the atmospheric river. This helped us understand how atmospheric rivers maintain their water content as they move. It also shows why atmospheric rivers seem to originate from tropical areas when we look at them in time‐lapse images of water vapor. Key Points: We calculate the moisture transport budget of 50 events of zonal atmospheric rivers over the Pacific that reach South AmericaHorizontal convergence of tropical and subtropical air masses act to maintain atmospheric rivers over the ocean while advection dominates near the coastFollowing a Lagrangian column, precipitable water is roughly conserved along atmospheric rivers, except near landfalling [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of perovskite light‐harvesting layer is known to be the most critical factor for the performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, a facile ambient air‐aging process (AAP, 20%–30% RH) is adopted to realize the fabrication of high‐quality Cs0.15FA0.75MA0.1PbI3 perovskite films, thereby upgrading device performance. We find that the perovskite crystallinity after AAP for 10 d is greatly intensified, with large grain size and preferred crystal orientation along (110) and (220) planes. Comparative studies on the Ag‐based devices employing the perovskite films upon exposing to different atmospheres, i.e., dry N2, dry O2, N2, and H2O (20%–30% RH) and ambient air (20%–30% RH), demonstrate that H2O molecules in air rather than O2 molecules induce an effective defect passivation that holds the multiple functions in enhancing the quality of perovskite film, inhibiting the nonradiative recombination, prolonging the carrier lifetime, and improving the energy level matching, etc. Moreover, the positive effect of H2O in ambient atmosphere on cell performance is irreversible and remains even if moisture escapes. Finally, the average power conversion efficiency (PCE) of device based on the AAP‐induced film is increased from 18.24 ± 1.49 to 21.34 ± 0.76, with the champion PCE up to 22.60%. Also, the device with AAP exhibits better moisture resistance capability. Herein, it offers a viable AAP‐induced route for the perovskite films with superb optoelectronic properties that can be subsequently extended to the design and construction of other photovoltaic devices for practical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of plasma treatment distance on the adhesion properties of carbon fiber composites were investigated, and the association between the distribution of surface physical characteristics on the composites and their bonding properties was discussed. After plasma treatment at different distances, surface morphology of the bonding area was obtained and the roughness distribution model was established. The change in surface physical characteristics directly influences the wettability of the bonding surface and the tensile shear strength (TSS) of the bonded components. When the TSS showed an increase by 19.47% at the treatment distance of 15 mm, metallographic images indicated that the bonding layer was integrated with the composites and the joint in the component was dominated by cohesive failure. When the TSS showed a decrease by 30.72% at the treatment distance of 5 mm, metallographic images indicated that voids and delamination were introduced in the bonding layer and fiber tearing failure mode appeared in the plasma etched area. Moisture‐heat resistance of the bonded components was also considered and a noticeable increase in water absorption was observed in the case of excessive treatment at the distance of 5 mm, which was also related to the distribution of physical characteristics induced by the plasma treatment. Highlights: Surface characteristic distribution of plasma‐modified composites was analyzed.State of resin and fibers on composite surface varied with the treatment distance.Semi‐annular plasma treatment traces appeared in the roughness distribution.The high roughness in the distribution played a key role in bonding properties.Performance degradation due to close treatment was also distribution‐dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moisture barriers are an essential component in firefighters' protective clothing as they allow water vapor to exit and prevent liquids from entering into the garment. However, they may be sensitive to thermal aging. This study investigates the effect of accelerated thermal aging at temperatures between 95 and 240°C on three different moisture barriers used in firefighters' protective clothing. Variations in their tear force, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), and apparent contact angle were observed after thermal aging. These variations were influenced by factors such as the base fabric structure, fiber content, adhesive characteristics, and presence of an additional flame-resistant polyurethane coating on top of the expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane. Adhesive degradation and delamination were observed in one moisture barrier, whilst different extents of base fabric degradation occurred in all three of them, leading to tear force reduction. Depending on the moisture barrier and aging temperature, the membranes experienced crack formation or pore closure, which affected the WVTR. The water-repellent finish on the fabric side degraded in two moisture barriers but was not affected in the other. These findings highlight the importance of considering the constitutive materials and the structure of moisture barriers to understand their aging behavior and improve firefighters' safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study applies a Lagrangian approach to identify the origin of moisture for subtropical cyclones (SCs) along their tracks in the South Atlantic Ocean (SAO) basin from 1980 to 2015. The analysis shows that the local evaporation cannot fully explain the moisture gained by SCs, highlighting the role of external sources in moisture support, mainly through the northeasterly winds associated with the South Atlantic Subtropical Anticyclone. Overall, the northwestern SAO was the principal moisture source for SCs. It was noticeable that its contribution (~40%–45%) remained quasi‐constant during the year. Conversely, the moisture supplied from the northeastern SAO, southwestern SAO and the terrestrial source southeastern Brazil exhibited a marked seasonal variability. While contributions from the southwestern SAO intensify (weaken) in austral winter (summer), the southeastern Brazil source is more intense (weak) in summer (winter). In addition, SCs predominantly gain atmospheric humidity from sources close to their position, which reduces the mean water vapor residence time to ~3.2 days. Interestingly, we also found that ~42%–47% of the moisture that reached the SCs precipitates. These findings constitute a further step toward improving our knowledge of mechanisms underlying SC activity in the SAO basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monsoon depressions (MDs) are synoptic‐scale storms that occur during the summer phase of the global monsoon cycle and whose dynamical mechanisms remain incompletely understood. To gain insight into the dynamics governing the large‐scale structure of MDs, we formulate an idealised moist‐thermal quasi‐geostrophic model that includes distinct thermal and moisture fields in simple forms. A linear‐stability analysis of the model, with basic states corresponding to typical monsoon conditions, shows three distinct mode classifications: thermal‐Rossby modes, heavy precipitating modes, and a moist‐thermal mode. In the linearised model, the presence of a background precipitation gradient strengthens thermal‐Rossby modes by coupling the dynamics to latent heating. The separation of heavy precipitating modes from fast‐propagating thermal‐Rossby modes is further examined with numerical experiments of large‐amplitude MDs. Wind‐induced evaporation is found to amplify large‐amplitude MDs in conditions analogous to those over the northern Bay of Bengal. An energetic analysis shows the pathways by which the MDs derive energy from the background state. A further series of experiments through a continuum of meridional temperature gradients demonstrates the sensitivity of large‐scale MD dynamics to the background state and suggests a possible mechanism to explain variations in the propagation direction of MDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: It is important to monitor and control the moisture content throughout the Tencha drying processing procedure so that its quality is ensured. Workers often rely on their senses to perceive the moisture content, leading to relative subjectivity and low reproducibility. Traditional drying methods, which are used for measuring moisture content, are destructive to samples. This research was conducted using computer vision combined with deep learning to detect moisture content during the Tencha drying process. Different color space components of Tencha drying sample images were first extracted by computer vision. The color components were preprocessed using MinMax and Z score. Subsequently, one‐dimensional convolutional neural networks (1D‐CNN), partial least squares, and backpropagation artificial neural networks models were built and compared. RESULTS: The 1D‐CNN model and Z score preprocessing achieved superior predictive accuracy, with correlation coefficient of prediction (Rp) = 0.9548 for moisture content. The migration of moisture content during the Tencha drying process was eventually visualized by mapping its spatial and temporal distributions. CONCLUSION: The results indicated that computer vision combined with 1D‐CNN was feasible for moisture prediction during the Tencha drying process. This study provides technical support for the industrial and intelligent production of Tencha. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superheated steam drying (SSD) of sliced avocado is studied by both experiment and theory. An experimental system is built to evaluate the effects of drying temperature and gas velocity on the evaporation rate and color change of the product. Experiments are conducted for ripened Booth avocado from Daklak province of Vietnam. Experimental results show that evaporation is faster at higher temperatures and velocities, but the effect of temperature decreases at higher velocities. At temperatures below 130 °C, the product is not brown, but at a temperature in the range of 130–150 °C, the dried sample is burned. The experimental model is fitted with high accuracy to predict the moisture rate as a function of time. The evaporation processes of SSD are also compared with hot air drying at the same drying conditions. To extend the application ability of the result, the theoretical model is developed on the basis of Fick's law in which the spatial distributions of temperature and moisture are taken into account. The effective diffusivity is determined by an optimization tool with good agreement. This parameter is constant for all drying conditions, so the model can be applied to a huge range of drying conditions. The numerical results show that the temperature is almost uniform in the sample because of high thermal conductivity, but the moisture gradient is significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detection of the moisture content (MC) and freshness for loquats is crucial for achieving optimal taste and economic efficiency. Traditional methods for evaluating the MC and freshness of loquats have disadvantages such as destructive sampling and time‐consuming. To investigate the feasibility of rapid and non‐destructive detection of the MC and freshness for loquats, optical fiber spectroscopy in the range of 200–1000 nm was used in this study. The full spectra were pre‐processed using standard normal variate method, and then, the effective wavelengths were selected using competitive adaptive weighting sampling (CARS) and random frog algorithms. Based on the selected effective wavelengths, prediction models for MC were developed using partial least squares regression (PLSR), multiple linear regression, extreme learning machine, and back‐propagation neural network. Furthermore, freshness level discrimination models were established using simplified k nearest neighbor, support vector machine (SVM), and partial least squares discriminant analysis. Regarding the prediction models, the CARS‐PLSR model performed relatively better than the other models for predicting the MC, with R2P and RPD values of 0.84 and 2.51, respectively. Additionally, the CARS‐SVM model obtained superior discrimination performance, with 100% accuracy for both calibration and prediction sets. The results demonstrated that optical fiber spectroscopy technology is an effective tool to fast detect the MC and freshness for loquats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change in high latitude regions leads to both higher temperatures and more precipitation but their combined effects on terrestrial ecosystem processes are poorly understood. In nitrogen (N) limited and often moss‐dominated tundra and boreal ecosystems, moss‐associated N2 fixation is an important process that provides new N. We tested whether high mean annual precipitation enhanced experimental warming effects on growing season N2 fixation in three common arctic‐boreal moss species adapted to different moisture conditions and evaluated their N contribution to the landscape level. We measured in situ N2 fixation rates in Hylocomium splendens, Pleurozium schreberi and Sphagnum spp. from June to September in subarctic tundra in Sweden. We exposed mosses occurring along a natural precipitation gradient (mean annual precipitation: 571–1155 mm) to 8 years of experimental summer warming using open‐top chambers before our measurements. We modelled species‐specific seasonal N input to the ecosystem at the colony and landscape level. Higher mean annual precipitation clearly increased N2 fixation, especially during peak growing season and in feather mosses. For Sphagnum‐associated N2 fixation, high mean annual precipitation reversed a small negative warming response. By contrast, in the dry‐adapted feather moss species higher mean annual precipitation led to negative warming effects. Modelled total growing season N inputs for Sphagnum spp. colonies were two to three times that of feather mosses at an area basis. However, at the landscape level where feather mosses were more abundant, they contributed 50% more N than Sphagnum. The discrepancy between modelled estimates of species‐specific N input via N2 fixation at the moss core versus ecosystem scale, exemplify how moss cover is essential for evaluating impact of altered N2 fixation. Importantly, combined effects of warming and higher mean annual precipitation may not lead to similar responses across moss species, which could affect moss fitness and their abilities to buffer environmental changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Brunswick modular framework for modeling unsaturated soil hydraulic properties (SHP) over the full moisture range was implemented in the Hydrus suite. Users can now additionally choose between four different variants of the Brunswick model: (i) van Genuchten–Mualem (VGM), (ii) Brooks–Corey, (iii) Kosugi, and (iv) modified van Genuchten. For demonstration purposes, simulation results for two different setups, (i) bare soil evaporation and (ii) root water uptake, are presented, along with a comparison of the original VGM model and its Brunswick variant. Results show that the original VGM model underestimates the simulated cumulative evaporation and cumulative transpiration due to the inconsistent representation of the SHP in the dry moisture range. We also implemented a two‐step hydro‐PTF (pedotransfer function) into the Hydrus suite that converts the parameters of the original VGM model (from Rosetta) to the corresponding Brunswick variant. In that way, physically comprehensive simulations are ensured if no data on SHP are directly available, but information on physical soil properties (e.g., texture and bulk density) exists. Core Ideas: A modular framework was implemented in Hydrus to describe soil hydraulic properties.The new model is more robust in describing soil hydraulic properties in the dry moisture range.Hydrus simulations with the new model predict high bare soil evaporation and transpiration fluxes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD) is the most productive region in Vietnam in terms of agriculture and aquaculture. Unsurprisingly, droughts have been a prevalent concern for stakeholders across the VMD over the past decades. However, the VMD precipitation moisture sources and their dominant factors during drought conditions were not well understood. Using the ERA5 reanalysis data as inputs, the Water Accounting Model‐2layers (WAM‐2layers), a moisture tracking tool, was applied to identify the VMD precipitation moisture sources from 1980 to 2020. The modeling simulation indicates that the moisture sources transported from the upwind regions dominate the VMD precipitation by 60.4%–93.3%, and the moisture source areas vary seasonally with different monsoon types. Results of the causal inference algorithms indicate that the humidity and wind speed in the upwind area are the dominant factors for driving moisture transport and determining the amount of VMD precipitation in dry and wet seasons, respectively. The local atmospheric conditions may also have a causal effect on moisture recycling. During the drought events in 2015–2016 and 2019–2020, the reduced moisture transport in the 2016 dry season was mainly caused by the anomalies in both humidity and wind speed, while the below average moisture sources in the 2020 dry season were dominated by humidity. In the 2019 wet season, an anomaly in wind speed led to a decrease in the tracked moisture. These findings are of great significance for understanding the moisture sources of precipitation and further improving drought prediction in the VMD. Key Points: Precipitation moisture sources for the Vietnamese Mekong Delta primarily originate from the external area, accounting for over 60%Based on causality algorithms, humidity and wind speed are the dominant factors of moisture transport in dry and wet seasons, respectivelyThe large‐scale forcings and local atmospheric instability also have effects on moisture transport and recycling [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change in India is causing devastating downpour events and shifts in spatial characterization, with apparent regional differences. The Northwest India (NWI), which is in the Aravalli rain shadow zone and was formerly drier, has attracted great attention in recent years due to its changing rainfall patterns. This study throws light on the astonishing behaviour of ISMR over NWI with the advent of intensified rainfall over the region in the recent time frame. The Pettitt test of change point (CP) detection is utilized in this analysis to measure the change in rainfall patterns over a period of 70 years, from 1950 to 2019. This analysis suggests significant variation in the CP's time frame for different months of ISMR. The earliest change was noticed in July, while the latest was for September for the mean as well as for the intense precipitation. Moreover, we found a maximum change in the precipitation during the peak monsoon month (i.e., July and August). The difference in the precipitation of different percentile values before and after CP indicates a decrease (increase) in low (high) intensity precipitation for all the months and seasons as a whole with varying magnitude. The highest reduction of low‐intensity precipitation is noticed for the months of July and August, while the highest increase of high‐intensity precipitation (>95th percentile) is noticed for June and September. The heavier precipitation contributes largely to the mean increase of precipitation, expecting to receive more mean and precipitation extremes in the future. Unlike the increasing precipitation trend, potential evapotranspiration (source of local moisture) shows a declining trend, revealing the negative association among them and the possibility of enhanced advection of remote moisture responsible for enhanced precipitation over NWI. The enhanced vertically integrated moisture transport of the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal and its strengthening relationship with precipitation further confirm the contribution of remote moisture to intensified precipitation over NWI, though the in‐depth dynamical cause remains unclear. The increased Convective Available Potential Energy for entire monsoon seasons as a whole and individual months facilitates a favourable condition for enhanced convective activity over the region, resulting in strengthening the precipitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in precipitation and its causes under future warming scenarios in Northwest China are of great concern. Based on the dynamical downscaling results of the Weather Research and Forecasting model (WRF), this study quantitatively identified the contribution of local evaporation and external moisture transport to future precipitation changes in western and eastern Northwest China (WNWC and ENWC) by calculating the precipitation recycling ratio (PRR). The results showed that the WRF could reasonably reproduce the observed spatial and temporal distribution of precipitation and evaporation during the historical reference period of 1985–2014. Under the 1.5 and 2.0°C stabilized warming scenarios from 2071 to 2100, there is a stronger precipitation growth in WNWC than in ENWC, and the PRR generally increases in WNWC and decreases in ENWC. Further analysis indicates that external moisture transport is the dominant contributor to the increased precipitation in all cases with its contribution exceeding 70%, while the difference of precipitation growth in two sub‐regions arises from the summer moisture transport at the southern boundary as the inflow in WNWC and outflow in ENWC. Compared to the negligible contribution of evaporation in ENWC (less than 7%), evaporation contributes more than 23% to the precipitation increase in WNWC under future warming scenarios, which may be related to the strong land‐atmosphere coupling there. Furthermore, an additional warming of 0.5°C leads to an increase in precipitation for both sub‐regions, which is mainly due to the contribution of external moisture transport. Plain Language Summary: In this study, we discuss the relative contributions of evaporation and moisture transport to precipitation changes in Northwest China under 1.5/2.0°C stabilized warming scenarios. With Northwest China (NWC) dividing it into two sub‐regions of western and eastern parts, we find that although the western NWC has less precipitation during the reference period of 1985–2014, the increase in precipitation is about twice that of the eastern NWC under the warming scenarios. The contribution of evaporation to the increased precipitation is greater in the western NWC compared with the reference period, which may indicate the accelerating hydrological cycle in western NWC. Moisture transport is the main contributor to the increase in precipitation and is also the main reason for the difference in precipitation changes between the two sub‐regions, mainly due to differences in summer moisture transport across the southern boundary. This work provides a scientific basis for assessing water resources in Northwest China under future warming scenarios. Key Points: External moisture transport contributes more than 70% of precipitation in Northwest China, both in terms of mean and variabilityContribution of evaporation to the precipitation increase is stronger in western Northwest China, due to its strong land‐atmosphere couplingThe difference in moisture transport between the two regions is mainly due to changes in southern border moisture transport in summer [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkylamines form the backbone of countless nitrogen‐containing small molecules possessing desirable biological properties. Despite advances in amine synthesis through transition metal catalysis and photoredox chemistry, multicomponent reactions that leverage inexpensive materials to transform abundant chemical feedstocks into three‐dimensional α‐substituted alkylamines bearing complex substitution patterns remain scarce. Here, we report the design of a catalyst‐free electroreductive manifold that merges amines, carbonyl compounds and carbon‐based radical acceptors under ambient conditions without rigorous exclusion of air and moisture. Key to this aminative carbofunctionalization process is the chemoselective generation of nucleophilic α‐amino radical intermediates that readily couple with electrophilic partners, providing straightforward access to architecturally intricate alkylamines and drug‐like scaffolds which are inaccessible by conventional means. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of hollow glass particle‐filled fiber‐reinforced composites in marine applications necessitates a proper understanding of their behavior when exposed to moisture environments. In this study, the glass fiber‐reinforced composites reinforced with 0%–30% volume fraction of glass microspheres were fabricated and immersed in seawater and distilled water conditions for monotonic tensile and flexural testing. The degradation mechanisms were analyzed by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Moisture absorption results showed an increasing trend with the inclusion of glass microspheres. A decline in glass transition temperature and storage modulus was observed as a result of moisture absorption. The tensile results of the specimens exhibited a decrease of 13% and 9% in distilled water and seawater solution, respectively when compared with unaged samples, respectively. The flexural results of the aged composite specimens demonstrated a reduction of 24% and 11% in distilled water and seawater solution, respectively when compared with unaged samples. The findings also show that the influence of moisture on the modulus is less pronounced compared to its effect on strength under both environmental conditions. The micrograph results revealed a notable deterioration of the glass microsphere and the fiber/matrix interface in the moist environment. Highlights: Water absorption increases with the addition of glass microspheres.Microsphere degradation and fiber/matrix debonding are the governing mechanism.Retained 89% of tensile strength of their initial properties after exposed in sea water.Increase in microsphere contents decreases the tensile and flexural strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study uses precipitation oxygen isotopes (δ18Op) to examine key dynamics that deliver moisture to the southern slope of central Himalayas over different seasons. Results show that the majority of pre‐monsoon δ18Op values are relatively high and controlled by the westerlies and local moisture. However, some abnormally low δ18Op values coincide with higher precipitation amounts during the pre‐monsoon season due to moisture driven northwards from the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea to central Himalayas by anomalous circulations (quasi‐anticyclone, anticyclone, or/and westerlies trough). The size and location of the quasi‐anticyclone also influences the magnitude of the δ18Op decrease. In comparison, the monsoon δ18Op values are lower due to the combined effects of the Indian summer monsoon and convection. Our findings indicate that researchers need to consider the signals of abnormally low δ18Op values during the pre‐monsoon season when attempting to interpret ice core and tree‐ring records from central Himalayas. Plain Language Summary: How moisture is transported to the southern slope of central Himalayas remains unclear, especially for the frequent heavy precipitation events that occur during the pre‐monsoon season. Here, we address this issue using δ18Op measurements from the Asang station on the southern slope of central Himalayas during 2018–2019. We find that some abnormally low δ18Op values coincide with heavy precipitation during the pre‐monsoon season. These abnormally low δ18Op values are caused by the development of anomalous circulations that drives the Indian Ocean moisture to the Asang station. During the monsoon season, the δ18Op values are much lower than other seasons. Such low values are the product of the combined effects of the Indian summer monsoon and convection. We propose that the abnormally low δ18Op values during the pre‐monsoon season need to be considered in paleoclimate reconstructions using ice core and tree‐ring records in the region. The abnormally low δ18Op values during the pre‐monsoon season are closely correlated to anomalous circulations. This finding implies that δ18Op records from ice core and tree ring archives may have potential to reconstruct the frequency and intensity of such anomalous circulations during the pre‐monsoon season. Key Points: Abnormally low δ18Op values during the pre‐monsoon season coincide with heavy precipitation eventsOccurrences of anomalous circulations lead to the abnormally low δ18Op values during the pre‐monsoon seasonCombined effects of the Indian summer monsoon and convection cause lower δ18Op values during the monsoon season [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving the power conversion efficiency (PCE) and stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) remain the two most important goals of perovskite research. Herein, the effects of Al2O3 interlayer on the performance of formamidinium‐cesiums and "triple cation" PSCs by depositing a thin Al2O3 layer via atomic layer deposition on different interfaces are analyzed. It is found that it can efficiently serve as a passivation layer of perovskite absorber, as a seed layer for the compact growth of the subsequent SnO2 layer, or as a capping layer to the whole cell in the superstrate configuration to prevent moisture ingress. The optimized devices utilizing Al2O3 have on average more than 1% absolute higher PCE, with reduced penetration of moisture inside the device. Especially, the capping layer has shown the greatest benefit, extending the stability of the devices by more than two times and allowing long‐term operation without encapsulation. In the best case, a T80 time of almost 900 h under day/night‐cycling illumination is obtained. The observed trends are based on data from a large number of devices (more than 300 devices were tested in the maximum power point), which give statistical relevance to the promising results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new technique known as dough crumb–sheet composite rolling (DC–SCR) was used to improve the quality of fresh noodles. However, there is a dearth of theoretical investigations into the optimal selection of specific parameters for this technology, and the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Therefore, the effects of dough crumb addition times in DC–SCR on the texture, cooking, and eating quality of fresh noodles were first studied. Then, the underlying regulation mechanism of DC–SCR technology on fresh noodles was analyzed in terms of moisture distribution and microstructure. The study demonstrated that the most significant enhancement in the quality of fresh noodles was achieved by adding dough crumbs six times. Compared with fresh noodles made without the addition of dough crumbs, the initial hardness and chewiness of fresh noodles made by adding six times of dough crumbs increased by 25.32% and 46.82%, respectively. In contrast, the cooking time and cooking loss were reduced by 28.45% and 29.69%, respectively. This quality improvement in fresh noodles made by DC–SCR came from the microstructural differences of the gluten network between the inner and outer layers of the dough sheet. A dense structure on the outside and a loose structure on the inside could endow the fresh noodles made by DC–SCR with higher hardness, a shortened cooking time, and less cooking loss. This study would provide a theoretical and experimental basis for creating high‐quality fresh noodles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between precipitation and cloud properties in Southwest China are investigated by using the CLARA‐A2 cloud parameters data and TRMM‐3B43 precipitation data from 1998 to 2015. Ice water path (IWP) and cloud top height (CTH) are significantly and positively correlated with precipitation in all regions, indicating that ice‐phase processes and cloud development processes are the critical processes influencing precipitation. Precipitation is also directly associated with cloud fractional coverage (CFC) due to the significant positive correlation between CFC and precipitation in all regions except the Sichuan Basin (SCB). A positive correlation between liquid water path (LWP) and precipitation is found in the Eastern Tibetan Plateau (ETP) and Yunnan‐Kweichow Plateau (YKP), but not in the Western Tibetan Plateau (WTP) and SCB. Notably, the response of precipitation to LWP is not as good as that to IWP in SCB. Precipitation is significantly negatively correlated with ice effective radius (IREF) in WTP and ETP and positively correlated with liquid effective radius (LREF) in ETP, YKP and SCB. IREF and LREF are closely related to cloud microphysical processes. Specifically, small IREF could accelerate the Bergeron process and thus increase precipitation, while large LREF is closely related to the cloud droplets coalescence process. Results indicate that the difference in precipitation between the cold and warm seasons is related to convective available potential energy (CAPE) and low troposphere relative humidity (RH). High CAPE and RH favour the precipitation occurrence in Southwest China. The influence of CAPE and RH on precipitation is more significant in the ETP than that in the WTP, owing to the orographic lifting and moisture transport from the Indian Ocean. Thermodynamic and humidity conditions have a greater impact on precipitation by influencing LREF, LWP and IWP in YKP. In SCB, precipitation shows a strong dependence on CAPE, IWP and LREF, but not on RH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth and propagation of African easterly waves (AEWs) remains an active area of research, especially for those that become tropical cyclones (TCs). This is partly due to the complex role of moisture, realized through AEW‐convection interactions. The goal of this study is to understand how environmental moisture plays a role in influencing the growth and propagation of a case of an AEW‐convection system, that became a TC and how that role relates to the West African Monsoon System. Moisture sensitivity experiments were performed in a regional and convection‐permitting novel configuration. It is found that in a moister environment, diabatic heating associated with convection coupled to the wave is shallower, ultimately, weakening the wave amplitude. Energetics are reduced in a moister environment as the African easterly jet strengthens, yet narrows, and shifts northward limiting interaction with the monsoon and the wave‐convection system. The more intense monsoonal flow in a moister environment can instigate the decoupling between convection and AEW as deep convection is more likely in the ridge rather than in the trough region. Over western Africa, more continuous rainfall over the Guinea Highlands can inhibit phase locking with the AEW. In a moister environment, the mean zonal flow is weaker and as a result, the westward translation speed of the wave due to mean flow advection is slower than in the other experiments. While the mean flow advection dominates the translation, further differences in phase speed arise from differences in convection within the wave. Plain Language Summary: African easterly waves (AEWs) which can serve as tropical cyclone (TC) precursors, remain an active area of research. This is in part due to the complicated interactions between the waves, clouds, and water vapor. Although we have learned that the further development of TC precursors coupled with cloud systems can benefit greatly from water vapor, we still have unanswered questions such as: would more water vapor in the atmosphere allow for more favorable interactions between the TC precursor and cloud systems that ultimately lead to a stronger and more efficient TC formation? A high‐resolution weather and climate model was used to perform a set of moisture‐varying experiments to evaluate the moisture dependency of a historic event of an AEW that became a TC. We found that more moisture can intensify the West African Monsoon system, but shifts the African easterly jet (the source of energy for AEWs) further north inhibiting wave growth over land. More moisture affects how fast the wave propagates both through the changes in the background flow and partly to those within the cloud‐system structure. More moisture results in less favorable types of clouds close to the wave, which weakens the system. Key Points: More moisture narrows and shifts the African easterly jet poleward, reducing the kinetic energy available to the African easterly waveIn a moister environment, more deep convection occurs but its phasing with the wave becomes sub‐optimal for intensificationMoisture reduces wave translation over land, leading to convection phase locking with the Guinea Highlands rather than with the wave itself [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triticale (×Triticosecale) is a hybrid between wheat (Triticum spp.) and rye (Secale cereale), producing higher grain yields than wheat in challenging environments. Triticale grain is also highly nutritious. Thus, the potential of triticale grain for an expanded range of food applications should be explored. Sourdough bread has unique functional and nutritional properties, but understanding the effects of partial substitution of triticale for wheat flour and varying levels of dough moisture content on sourdough quality requires further research. The aim of this study was to evaluate the wholegrain flour of contrasting triticale cultivars in comparison to that of a common wheat cultivar in commercial sourdough breadmaking. Two triticale cultivars (Goanna and Hawkeye, selected from a panel of Australian genotypes) and one wheat cultivar (Scout) were grown in a field trial in northern NSW, Australia. Differences in quantitative texture and color parameters of the dough and sourdough bread resulting from (1) substitution of commercial wholemeal wheat flour with different proportions of wholegrain triticale or wholegrain wheat (Scout) flour (0%, 60%, 70%, 80%, and 90%) and (2) varying the amount of water included in the dough preparation (70%, 80%, 90%, and 100 g water/100 g flour) were determined. Replacement of wholemeal wheat flour with 60% wholegrain Goanna flour (protein content 12.76%; c.f. 11.50% for Hawkeye, 12.40% for Scout), and addition of 100 g water/100 g flour in the dough preparation gave the highest quality sourdough bread based on specific volume, texture, and color parameters and had similar properties to the control made from wheat alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reduce the crushing rate and improve the yield of rice during the milling process, it is significant from a fundamental standpoint to understand the mechanical behaviors of rice under external loads. In this paper, the mechanical properties and fracture morphologies of rice with various moisture contents have been analyzed in detail by experiments and the finite‐element (FE) method. In FE simulations, two‐dimensional (2D) and three‐dimensional (3D) composite models have been established with the cohesive zone model characterizing the interface strength. The results show that the moisture content determines the endosperm cell wall interface strength, and a linear relationship between the interface strength and moisture content has been obtained. In particular, three fracture patterns of brown rice are observed by the competition between the interface strength of starch granule and endosperm cell wall interface strength. Good agreements between FE predictions and experimental results indicate that the combination of the 2D and 3D composite models with the cohesive zone model can provide accurate predictions of the fracture behaviors of brown rice. This investigation should be of great help for understanding the moisture content‐dependent compression and impact behaviors of rice. Practical applications: Brown rice can be obtained by removing the husk through a hulling machine. During these processes, external loads, such as compression and impact, will damage the microstructure of brown rice, which results in a loss rate as high as 25%. Understanding the mechanical properties of brown rice with different moisture contents will be of great help in designing the equipment used in rice processing operations and extending the yield of polished rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]