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Creativity has many benefits, such as workplace performance and life satisfaction. Three studies extended a small body of work to examine whether awe was associated with creative personality, convergent creativity, and everyday creative behaviors (N = 1,844). Study 1 demonstrated that trait awe was associated with a more creative personality among adolescents and adults in the U.S., Iran, and Malaysia. Study 2 showed that trait awe was associated with an increased likelihood of solving the Duncker's Candle Problem. Finally, Study 3 found that on days when participants felt more daily awe than they typically do, they reported having done more everyday creative activities. The effects of awe were independent of amusement (Studies 1–3) and Big Five personality (Study 3). Moreover, we found that daily curiosity explained the link between daily awe and daily creativity in Study 3. These results are the first to demonstrate a consistent link between awe and complementary measures of creativity. The discussion focuses on the limitations of the present work as well as implications of the present results for future research on awe and creativity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Emerging research challenges the one‐factor model of the future time perspective (FTP) scale by demonstrating two‐ and three‐factor models of the FTP scale. Method: Three samples (i.e., Switzerland and the United States; N = 2022) explored the factor structure, age pattern differences, tested the link between FTP factors, psychological well‐being, and life satisfaction, as well as age as a moderator. Results: We distinguished FTP into opportunities, extension, and constraint factors that corroborated previous research. We did not find a replicable curvilinear age pattern difference on any of the FTP factors. The association between extension and life satisfaction was stronger among younger than older adults. Alternatively, the association between constraint and life satisfaction was stronger among younger than older adults in Samples A and C, and the pattern was reversed in Sample B. Lastly, the association between constraint and environmental mastery was stronger among older adults than younger adults in Sample B and the pattern was reversed in Sample C. Conclusion: This variation in the perception of the future is different for people at different periods in life and has an important consequence for living life well, especially a focus on extension and lack of constraint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The superfamily Blaberoidea is a highly species‐rich group of cockroaches. High‐level blaberoidean phylogenetics are still under debate owing to variable taxon sampling and incongruence between mitochondrial and nuclear evolution, as well as different methods used in various phylogenetic studies. We here present a phylogenetic analysis of Blaberoidea based on a dataset combining the mitochondrial genome with two nuclear markers from representatives of all recognized families within the superfamily. Our results support the monophyly of Blaberiodea, which includes Ectobiidae s.s. (=Ectobiinae), Pseudophyllodromiidae, Nyctiboridae, Blattellidae s.s. (=Blattellinae) and Blaberidae. Ectobiidae s.s. was recovered as sister to the remaining Blaberoidea in all inferences. Pseudophyllodromiidae was paraphyletic with respect to Anaplectoidea + Malaccina. Blattellidae s.s. excluding Anaplectoidea + Malaccina formed a monophyletic group that was sister to Blaberidae. Based on our results, we propose a revised classification for Blaberoidea: Anaplectoidinae subfam.nov. and Episorineuchora gen.nov., and two new combinations at species level within Pseudophyllodromiidae; Rhabdoblattellinae subfam.nov., Calolamprodinae subfam.nov., Acutirhabdoblatta gen.nov., as well as new combinations for three species within Blaberidae. Ancestral state reconstructions based on four morphological characters allow us to infer that the common ancestor of blaberoid cockroaches is likely to be a species with characteristics similar to those found in Ectobiidae, that is, front femur Type B, arolium present, abdomen with a visible gland and male genital hook on the left side. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Despite broad consensus about multicultural experience's benefits, there is a lack of research on the antecedents to multicultural experiences. Research has indicated that awe shifts attention away from the self toward larger entities, which could include elements of other cultures. Methods: Four studies (N = 2915) tested whether trait, daily, and induced awe promoted multicultural experience. Results: Studies 1–2 (adolescents, young, middle, and older adults) showed that trait awe predicted greater multicultural identity and experience independent of other positive emotions and openness. Study 3 (students & adults in U.S. & Malaysia) demonstrated that daily awe predicted more daily multicultural experience independent of yesterday's multicultural experience. These results were explained by trait and daily curiosity. Study 4 (adults) found that induction of awe increased state multicultural identity and experience via state curious emotions and then state curious personality. Conclusion: We found that experiencing more awe can be a tool for enhancing the multicultural experience. The discussion focuses on the implications for future research on awe and multicultural experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Storage pests influence food production and conservation worldwide. The common control measures for these pests involve the use of synthetic pesticides, but these pesticides are harmful to the environment and human health. Thus, biological insecticides can substitute or reduce dependence on synthetic insecticides. This work aimed to study the insecticidal activities of essential oils (EOs) from leaves, fruits and stems of Melicope pteleifolia and their main compound against three kinds of pests, Tribolium castaneum, Lasioderma serricorne and Liposcelis bostrychophila. The Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) detection showed that β-cis-ocimene was the major compound in EOs from leaves and fruits of M. pteleifolia (26.96, and 65.99%, respectively). The main compound of stems EO is origanene (77.00%). In the fumigation test, EO of fruits and β-cis-ocimene were toxic to L. serricorne, and β-cis-ocimene was toxic to T. castaneum. The EOs and β-cis-ocimene had significant contact toxicity and repellent effect on these three species of pests. The results indicated that M. pteleifolia EOs are potential biological insecticides for controlling storage pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asians are not immune to racial discrimination and discrimination against Asians has heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic because they were blamed as the origin of the virus. A pre-registered 14-day diary explored if self-compassion was associated with subjective well-being and protective behaviors for Asians (U.S. & Canada) who faced COVID-19 discriminations (N = 82 & ndiaries =711). Participants reported discriminations experience for 28% (U.S.) and 25% (Canada) of their days. Daily self-compassion predicted daily subjective well-being despite COVID-19 discrimination experience. Daily self-compassion predicted increased COVID-19 protective behaviors on days Asian Americans experienced COVID-19 discrimination. Daily acceptance, but not daily reappraisal, explained the link between daily self-compassion and daily subjective well-being. These findings could not be accounted for by daily self-esteem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was to study the effect of the mixing ratio of Leymus chinensis and Allium mongolicum on quality of silage. The experiment was based on fresh weight of silage raw materials, and set five groups: Group T1 (100% Leymus chinensis), group T2 (75% Leymus chinensis + 25% Allium mongolicum), group T3 (50% Leymus chinensis + 50% Allium mongolicum), group T4 (25% Leymus chinensis +75% Allium mongolicum), group T5 (100% Allium mongolicum), mixed silage of Leymus chinensis and Allium mongolicum. After 60 d of silage, the bags were opened for sensory evaluation, nutritional quality and fermentation quality determination. The results showed that group T5 sensory evaluation was good, and the rest of the treatment groups were excellent. With the increase of ratio of Allium mongolicum, the content of DM and NDF in each group decreased significantly ( P<0.05), and the content of ADF gradually increased (P<0.05). The CP, EE and WSC content of group T5 were the highest, and ash content of group T1 was the highest. Different proportions of silage in Allium mongolicum and Leymus chinensis could significantly reduce pH value and ammonia nitrogen content of silage (P<0.05), significantly increase the content of lactic acid and acetic acid (P<0.05). The study indicates that considering group T4 is the optimal treatment, which can be applied to production practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new metal-organic framework material [Ni(L)(pda)(H 2 O) 2 ]·2H 2 O (1) was synthesized by a solvothermal reaction of 3,3'-di(1H-imidazol-1-yl)-1,1'-biphenyl (L) and 1,4-Phenylenediacetic acid (H 2 pda) with Ni(II) salt. Crystal properties were characterized by elemental analysis (ER), infrared spectroscopy (IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), and it was found that 1 has excellent thermal and structural stability. Furthermore, through fluorescence luminescence experiments, 1 exhibits excellent recognition performance for antibiotics, Fe3+, Cr(Ⅵ) and acetone molecules, which has potential application value. [Display omitted] • Synthesis of new Metal-organic framework. • Excellent selectivity and thermal stability. • Specific recognition of Fe (III)/Cr (VI) ions, acetone molecules, antibiotics. • Potential fluorescent probes. A new metal–organic framework material [Ni(L)(pda)(H 2 O) 2 ]•2H 2 O (1) was synthesized by a solvothermal reaction of 3,3′-di(1H-imidazol-1-yl)-1,1′-biphenyl (L) and 1,4-Phenylenediacetic acid (H 2 pda) with Ni(NO 3) 2 ·6H 2 O. Crystal properties were characterized by elemental analysis (ER), infrared spectroscopy (IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), and it was found that 1 has excellent thermal and structural stability. Furthermore, through fluorescence luminescence experiments, 1 exhibits excellent recognition performance for antibiotics, Fe3+, Cr(Ⅵ) and acetone molecules, which has potential application value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The original 26‐item Self‐Compassion Scale (SCS; Neff, 2003) and 12‐item Short‐Form Self‐Compassion Scale (SF‐SCS; Raes et al., 2011) are scales commonly used in cross‐sectional and longitudinal research to assess the global self‐compassion construct and its six facets. We introduce the Single‐Item Self‐Compassion Scale (SISC; 'I have high self‐compassion') to measure the global self‐compassion construct in time‐, space‐ and resource‐limited contexts (e.g., daily diaries, experience sampling and nationally representative surveys). Additionally, the SISC will expand knowledge about self‐compassion by providing researchers whose primary interest is not self‐compassion with a convenient, face‐valid option to measure self‐compassion. Across 10 samples (four cross‐sectional, four longitudinal and two 7‐day daily diary; N = 2,477), we demonstrated that the SISC has acceptable psychometric properties. Specifically, the SISC was temporally consistent, correlated adequately with the SCS and SF‐SCS, exhibited nearly identical correlational patterns when compared with the SCS and SF‐SCS with a wide range of criterion measures (e.g., self‐esteem, personality, affective and social functioning, mental health and demographic variables) and saved 12 min over a 7‐day diary. Results replicated among students, community samples and across the United States, Turkey and Malaysia. Thus, we provide the field with an alternative measure of the global self‐compassion construct that complements the SCS and SF‐SCS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ketamine, an N-methyl- d -aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, induces deficits in cognition and information processing following chronic abuse. Adolescent ketamine misuse represents a significant global public health issue; however, the neurodevelopmental mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain largely elusive. This study investigated the long-term effects of sub-chronic ketamine (Ket) administration on the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and associated behaviors. In this study, Ket administration during early adolescence displayed a reduced density of excitatory synapses on parvalbumin (PV) neurons persisting into adulthood. However, the synaptic development of excitatory pyramidal neurons was not affected by ketamine administration. Furthermore, the adult Ket group exhibited hyperexcitability and impaired socialization and working memory compared to the saline (Sal) administration group. These results strongly suggest that sub-chronic ketamine administration during adolescence results in functional deficits that persist into adulthood. Bioinformatic analysis indicated that the gene co-expression module1 (M1) decreased expression after ketamine exposure, which is crucial for synapse development in inhibitory neurons during adolescence. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that sub-chronic ketamine administration irreversibly impairs synaptic development, offering insights into potential new therapeutic strategies. • Impacts of adolescent ketamine exposure on cortical synaptic development in mice. • Effects of adolescent ketamine exposure on behavioral deficits in mice. • Identification of co-expression module underlying adolescent ketamine exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electromagnetic pollution is a major challenge, as it has brought inevitable damage to the environment and human health. Monitoring of electromagnetic radiation is critical to identifying electromagnetic pollution for treatment. Conventional monitoring devices could produce a large number of waste batteries causing pollution. Optical fiber sensing with characteristic of passive detection is an efficient way to monitor electromagnetic field intensity. However, previously reported measurement range of optical fiber magnetic field sensors are rare to achieve a wide range of magnetic field measurement. In this work, we propose a passive optical fiber magnetic field measurement scenario. The measurement range from 0 to 100 mT and a resolution of 2.9 × 10−2 mT for DC magnetic field detection are obtained. Also, both exceptional orientation dependence property and the sensitivity of 341 pm/mT have been achieved. This passive optical fiber magnetic field sensor with wide range and anti-electromagnetic interference has excellent prospects for application in the electromagnetic pollution monitoring, power equipment assessment and geological exploration. [Display omitted] • The magnetic field sensor based on F-P interference principle was presented, which achieved passive measurement. • The wide range measurement of magnetic field with 0.032–100 mT was realized. • The orientation dependence property was verified, which is vital for the development of magnetic field direction sensor. • The test performance of the F-P magnetic field sensor was discussed and analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of excellent mechanical properties, thermal insulation and ideal radiation resistance, polyimide (PI) is one of the best choices as a flexible solar backsheet in photovoltaic systems. In this study, accumulation characteristics of surface charge of PI backsheet under temperature-controlled corona polarization were investigated both theoretically and experimentally. In order to investigate the surface charge accumulation of PI backsheet under the effect of different temperatures, finite element method (FEM) was used. The mechanisms by which the temperature influenced accumulation and decay processes of the surface charge of the PI backsheet were investigated. The results show that the carrier mobility of PI backsheet increased in the stages of charge accumulation and charge decay, which then has an indirect effect on the dynamic characteristics of the surface charge. Charge accumulation decreases with the increase of temperature, and both accumulation process and decay process occurred simultaneously. The results of this study provide theoretical support for the modification of PI backsheet. At the same time, a practical theoretical method for modeling and simulating the charge diffusion of insulating PI backsheet under the influence of temperature was explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bubble near the wall of shear flow will be subjected to both wall-induced lift and shear-induced lift. The two-lift interaction will markedly change the dynamic behavior of the bubble. In this experiment, the lateral motion of a single bubble ( d e q = 2.33 − 3.42 mm , R e b = 470 − 680) rising near the vertical wall in a linear shear flow was studied. The positive-synergy and negative-synergy between the wall- and shear-induced lift effects on bubble dynamics were compared. The experiment was carried out in a vertical water tunnel with a curved screen used to generate a stable linear shear flow. Using the shadow method and two charge-coupled device cameras, the movement parameters of the bubble were captured, including the movement trajectory of the bubble, length–diameter ratio, and instantaneous velocity. The lift coefficient CL and drag coefficient CD were obtained by quasi-steady-state analysis and calculation. By fitting the steady lift coefficient, the relation of CL with dimensionless wall distance S* and the Reynolds number Reb was obtained. The results show that there is a critical value of the initial dimensionless distance S* about [S*] = 1.6. When S* > [S*], the bubble is subjected to both wall-induced lift and shear-induced lift. The lift coefficient CL decreases with the increase in S*. When S* < [S*], the bubble receives additional induced lift from the wall. The CL of the smaller bubble was smaller and increases with the increase in S*, while the deformation of the larger bubble will interact with the wall to produce deformation lift away from the wall, presenting larger CL, and decrease with the increase in S*. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Metal-Organic Framework (MOF) based on a tricarboxylic acid ligand (H3L = biphenyl-2,4′,5-tricarboxylic acid), namely [Cd3(L)2(H2O)4] (1), had been prepared and characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), thermogravimetric analyses (TGA), and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Fluorescence studies showed that 1 has high quenching efficiency for testing acetone and Fe3+ ions in aqueous systems. Therefore, it can be used as a new type of fluorescence probe to detect solvent molecules and metal ions in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Degree of PID of PV backsheet after salt mist exposure can be evaluated by DSC. • Degree of crystallinity increased under PD with the increasing salt-mist exposure. • Erosion rate of PV backsheets is influenced by salt-mist exposure and PD activity. • Electron avalanche releases kinetic energy and damages the lattice of backsheet. • Molecules dissociated by low-energy electrons form anions, radicals and excitons. Recently, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have been helping to relieve the global energy crisis. However, the service lifetime of PV systems may be shorter than the designed time. The backsheet, which is usually made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), influences the long-term reliability of PV systems. When a PV system is located in a coastal area, the backsheet usually suffers from various problems such as partial discharge (PD) activity induced by the leakage current caused by potential-induced degradation (PID) because of exposure to salt-mist. Here we used atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and phase-resolved partial discharge (PRPD) to explore the PD activity of PET backsheets caused by PID after salt-mist exposure. The analyses revealed that the surface roughness of the PET backsheet increased with the salt-mist duration. Raman spectroscopy indicated that some chemical groups changed after PD activity and salt-mist exposure. The degree of crystallinity increased under the condition of PD activity with increasing salt-mist exposure time. The result of PRPD indicated that PD activity depended salt-mist exposure conditions. From these results, we found that the erosion rate of PET backsheets was influenced by salt-mist exposure and PD activity induced by the leakage current caused by PID. These findings provide guidance to improve the durability of insulating backsheets of PV systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In recent year, there has been a dramatic increase in renewable energy from the windiest and solar-rich areas. Consequently, energy storage has many potential applications in generation grid integration, power transmission and distribution of green energy. Polypropylene (PP) is a representative electrical insulator used in electrets and dielectric capacitors in energy storage devices. The properties of PP are severely affected by accumulation of surface charge, and the use of PP remains limited by its low dielectric constant. Adding nanoparticles to PP is an effective way to increase its dielectric constant and enhance the evacuation of electrons both on the surface and in the bulk. Thus, in this paper, we investigated how adding zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles to PP affected its decay characteristics, dielectric constant, and conductivity. In this paper, the mechanisms of surface potential decay were discussed. Adding the ZnO particles increased the dielectric constant and conductivity of the PP. Experiments show that the surface potential of PP with added ZnO particles decayed faster than that of the pure PP. Also, the PP/ZnO nanocomposites showed more partial discharge and more electron transport and evacuation. These results will spur further research into energy conversion and storage using nanotructured materials. Highlights • Dynamic dissipation performance of the stored charge could reflect the charge transportation behavior in composite for the green energy storage device. • Nano-particle could cause more partial discharge activities and more electron transport and evacuation in the nanocomposites. • The increase of dielectric constant should be attributed to the interfacial polarization of nano-particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Design of stable high-performance heterogeneous catalysts has become crucial for efficient catalytic conversion of renewable biomass into high value-added chemicals. In this study, amphiphilic polymer support was synthesized by grafting hydrophobic groups onto hydrophilic cellulose nanocrystals and utilized as a support for PdNi alloy nanoparticles. The as-synthesized catalysts exhibited encouragingly high performance in the hydrodeoxygenation of vanillin under mild conditions. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Amphiphilic catalysts were prepared to enhance the catalytic activity. • Hydrodeoxygenation of vanillin as biofuel upgrade was performed. • The reaction is performed with a recyclable catalyst in water. • Earth-abundant and biodegradable cellulose material was used as catalyst support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Because of improving solar-cell fabrication and converter technology, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have emerged as one of the most promising methods of renewable power generation. In PV modules, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is usually used as a backsheet to provide electrical insulation and physical protection. However, such backsheets have various problems, including potential induced degradation from partial discharge (PD), which affect the service life of the PV system. In this study, the PD discharging characteristics of PET film and its degradation of insulation structure caused by the PD are analyzed and compared. The PET was pretreated and electrically stressed above the PD inception voltage (PDIV) for 10, 30, 60, and 120 min. Using phase-resolved partial discharge (PRPD), we found that the discharge magnitude changed with differing discharge time. In addition, using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), we found that the crystallinity of the PET increased with aging time. This paper presents a comprehensive study of the electrical degradation of the backsheet, using PRPD patterns and changes in crystallinity, which will help to improve the long-term service life of PV systems. Highlights • Novel characterization methods for analyzing the potential induced degradation and the crystallinity of the backsheet of Photovoltaic module. • Influence of the surface plasmons on the PV insulating backsheet has been investigated. • Potential induced degradation of backsheet has been investigated by Differential Scanning Calorimetry for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract A recyclable Pd-Ni bimetallic nanoparticles supported on active carbon is fabricated and applied in the HDO of aldehydes. "Synergistic effect" between the two metal components and interaction between BMNPs and the carrier (active carbon) all contribute to outstanding catalytic performance of Pd 1 Ni 4 /AC catalyst. Highlights • An efficient Pd-Ni/AC catalyst was established for HDO of vanillin. • HDO of vanillin and a series of aldehydes could be realized under a mild condition. • Bimetallic nanocatalyst out-performed corresponding monocatalysts due to "Synergistic effect". • The as-prepared Pd-Ni/AC catalyst demonstrated superior reuse potential. • Properties of the carrier have a huge impact on the catalytic performance. Abstract A highly efficient bimetallic nanoparticles (BMNPs) catalyst was reported, Pd 1 Ni 4 /AC, consisting of Pd 1 Ni 4 BMNPs supported on active carbon, shown excellent catalytic performance and stablity in hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of vanillin. HDO of vanillin and various aldehydes with high efficiency and selectivity could be achieved at low H 2 pressure (2 bar) under mild conditions in the presence of the BMNPs catalyst, no obvious decrease on catalytic performance was observed after eight cycles. The superior catalytic performance of the Pd 1 Ni 4 /AC catalyst was mainly attributable to the synergetic electronic effect between Pd and Ni, which showcased the great potential of BMNPs in the catalysis field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this work, surface molecularly imprinted polymers (SMIPs) were prepared as a specific sorbent to remove the limonin from the lemon juice for the first time, and then the MIPs containing limonin were directly made into a water-soluble gel to treat inflammation of mice. The resulting polymers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectrometer spectra. And the polymerization conditions and adsorption performances of the resultant nanomaterials were further investigated in detail. Results showed that the MIPs have higher adsorption capacity (27.72 mg/g) compared with surface molecularly non-imprinted polymers (NIPs) (8.12 mg/g). The selectivity experiment indicated that the polymers had excellent selective recognition for limonin and the selectivity factors were calculated as 2.75 and 1.83 for nomilin and obakunone, respectively. The MIPs were successfully used as adsorbent for selectively removing limonin from lemon juice and the MIPs extracted almost all the limonin from lemon juice according to the HPLC results. Furthermore, the MIPs with limonin were processed into water-soluble gel, which can be used to reduce the inflammation and enhance wound healing of model mice. Highlights • The molecularly imprinted solid-phase extraction debitterize technology was reported for the first time. • Molecularly imprinted polymers for limonin were prepared. • The adsorption effects of the MIPs and NIPs for limonin were investigated. • The molecularly imprinted polymers with limonin can be used to treat external infections with significant effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pd−Ni bimetallic nanoparticles (BMNPs) encapsulated in MIL‐100(Fe) (Pd‐Ni@MIL‐100(Fe) was fabricated and employed as an efficient catalyst for the reversible dehydrogenation/hydrogenation of N‐Heterocycles derivatives in water under mild conditions. Excellent catalytic performance for both reactions endows Pd‐Ni@MIL‐100(Fe) great potential value in organic chemistry. Alloying Pd with Ni can enhance the catalytic performance due to the bimetallic synergy. Both Lewis acidity and ordered mesoporous structure of MIL‐100(Fe) are beneficial to the performance of the catalyst owing to its stabilization of BMNPs, reduction of the electron density of Pd atoms and enhancement of substrates adsorption capacity. Bimetallics are no trick! A recyclable catalyst, Pd−Ni bimetallic nanoparticles encapsulated in MIL‐100(Fe), is fabricated and applied in acceptorless reversible dehydrogenation and hydrogenation of quinoline derivatives. Stabilization of MIL‐100(Fe) for BMNPs, absorptivity of MIL‐100(Fe) for reactants and gas together with the electronic effect between BMNPs and MIL‐100(Fe) all contribute to outstanding catalytic performance of Pd1Ni4@MIL‐100(Fe) catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A catalytic system based on Pd−Ni bimetallic nanoparticles (BMNPs) encapsulated in the nanocavities of UiO‐66 was established for the activation of C−O bonds in ethers. Pd0.25Ni4@UiO‐66 catalyst show excellent catalytic performance in the directly methylation and arylation of ethers under a mild reaction condition. High catalytic activity of the catalyst could be ascribed to the "synergistic effect" between the two metal components and strong interaction between BMNPs and the carrier (UiO‐66). BMNPs encapsulated in UiO‐66 also guarantee a good reusability of the catalyst, the catalyst delivered high catalytic activity for at least four cycles. Our work highlights the great potential value of ethers as powerful alternatives for aryl halides as well as the bright future of BMNPs and MOFs in the catalysis field. Grignard for the win! A catalyst of recyclable Pd−Ni bimetallic nanoparticles encapsulated in UiO‐66 is fabricated and applied in the C−O activation reaction of ethers, which highlights the great potential value of ethers as electrophiles. Synergistic effect between the two metal components and strong interaction between BMNPs and the carrier (UiO‐66) all contribute to outstanding catalytic performance of Pd0.25Ni4@UiO‐66 catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Stem powder of Solidago canadensis was used as a biosorbent for Cd(II) removal from waste water. • At 298 K, the saturated biosorption capacity was 19.34 mg/g, greater than that of rise husk and wheat straw. • The increase of ionic strength (Na+) increased the biosorption capacity from 17.58 mg/g to 19.50 mg/g. • The presence of 20 mg/L Ca (II), Mg(II) or humic acid reduced the biosorption capacity by 62.2%, 44.0% and 51.9%. • When regenerated using HCl, the biosorption efficiency decreased to 69.11% after 4 cycles. Abstract To reveal the performance of stem powder of Solidago canadensis as a putatively advantageous biosorbent for removal of Cd(II) from simulated waste water, the kinetic and thermodynamic characteristics of biosorption, the effects of ionic strength, humic acid and the physio-chemical factors on biosorption, as well as the desorption and regeneration processes were investigated comprehensively. The stem of S. canadensis was oven-dried and processed into fine powder then mixed with 5 mg/L, 10 mg/L or 20 mg/L Cd(II) solution. The residual concentration was measured using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The reacting conditions were optimized to pH = 6.0 with a dosage of 0.5 g/L for contact of 240 min. The results showed that: the biosorption reaction is best described by Langmuir monolayer isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetic models; thermodynamic analysis indicates an exothermic and entropy-decreasing biosorption process; at the optimal temperature 298 K, the saturated biosorption capacity was 19.34 mg/g, greater than that of rise husk and wheat straw reported literally; the increase of ionic strength was beneficial to the capacity of biosorption, for example 0.01 mmol/L and, 0.1 mmol/L Na+ increased the biosorption capacity from 17.58 mg/g to 19.03 mg/g and 19.50 mg/g; the presence of 20 mg/L Ca (II) Mg(II) or humic acid reduced the biosorption capacity by 62.2%, 44.0% and 51.9%, respectively; growing additional amounts of alkaline earth metal ions or humic acid increasingly reduce the biosorption capacity; using 0.01 mmol/L HCl as an agent to regenerate the Cd(II)-loaded biosorbent, the biosorption efficiency decreased to 69.11% of the first round biosorption after 4 cycles. Our results demonstrate that the stem powder of S. canadensis is a promising biomass-based biosorbent for the removal of Cd(II) from waste water for its fine capacity of biosorption and regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Space charge behavior in polymeric materials is of interest to the electrical engineering community and has significant effects on the behavior of the polymers that are used in gas-insulated transmission lines (GILs). For example, the space charge in certain insulating materials can cause severe distortion of the electric field that may even lead to breakdown of the materials. It is therefore important to understand the trapped charge distributions in these materials because they can be used as novel indicators for effective evaluation of the aging status and the electric withstand strength of these insulating materials. This paper addresses recent developments in the modeling of charge transport in polymers for use in GIL applications. A numerical model of bipolar charge transport in polymeric insulators is presented in this paper. This model was studied based on use of multiple trap levels and consideration of symmetrical parameters for the generation and transport of electrons and holes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our ASR analysis of spermatheca type suggested that primary spermathecae with one spermathecal opening was present in the last common ancestor of Blattodea. The spermatheca transformed at least six times during the evolutionary history of Blattodea, in Blaberoidea, primary spermatheca shifted to secondary spermatheca (one pair); in Blattellidae, Ectobiidae, and Nyctiboridae, a pair of spermatheca shifted to more than one pair of spermatheca; in Blattellidae, some species, such as Symploce sp., and Episymploce forficula , have one pair of spermatheca, but at the same time they have the unique trait i.e., each spermatheca branch with more than one pair of ampulla-like branches. [Display omitted] • This study carried out phylogenetic analyses on the 135 insect samples, which cover all currently documented extant cockroach families. • Phylogenetic trees show strong support for the relationship among three superfamilies and offer some new insights into the phylogeny of cockroaches. • The evolution of spermathecae could be described as a unidirectional trend: the increased size to accommodate more sperm. • This study shows a compelling case for an adaptive connection between spermathecal morphology and mating capability. Cockroaches, an ancient and diverse group of insects on earth that originated in the Carboniferous, displays a wide array of morphology or biology diversity. The spermatheca is an organ of the insect reproductive system; the diversity of spermathecae might be the adaption to different mating and sperm storage strategies. Yet a consensus about the phylogenetic relationships among the main lineages of Blattodea and the evolution of spermatheca has not been reached until now. Here we added the transcriptome data of Anaplectidae for the first time and supplemented other family level groups (such as Blaberidae, Corydiidae) to address the pending issues. Our results showed that Blattoidea was recovered as sister to Corydioidea, which was strongly supported by molecular evidence. In Blattoidea, (Lamproblattidae + Anaplectidae) + (Cryptocercidae + Termitoidae) was strongly supported by our molecular data. In Blaberoidea, Pseudophyllodromiidae and Blaberidae were recovered to be monophyletic, while Blattellidae was found to be paraphyletic with respect to Malaccina. Ectobius sylvestris + Malaccina discoidalis formed the sister group to other Blaberoidea; Blattellidae (except Malaccina discoidalis) + Nyctiboridae was found as the sister of Blaberidae. Corydiidae was recovered to be non-monophyletic due to the embedding of Nocticola sp. Our ASR analysis of spermatheca suggested that primary spermathecae were present in the common ancestor, and it transformed at least six times during the evolutionary history of Blattodea. The evolution of spermatheca could be described as a unidirectional trend: the increased size to accommodate more sperm. Furthermore, major splits within the existing genera of cockroaches occurred in the Upper Paleogene to Neogene. Our study provides strong support for the relationship among three superfamilies and offers some new insights into the phylogeny of cockroaches. Meanwhile, this study also provides basic knowledge on the evolution of spermathecae and reproductive patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulating layer of photovoltaic (PV) modules is subject to irradiation-induced ageing that can affect their security, stability and lifetime. Early potential induced degradation phenomena were founded in the insulating Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) backsheet of photovoltaic module. However, the designed lifetime of PET insulating backsheet is inconsistent with their practical service time. We have found that the corona discharge in the air provides consistent relative degradation behavior, and that crystallinity values can vary based on different electron avalanche duration. Surface charge evacuation phenomena of PET under varied corona discharge time were also tested. An increase tendency between the chemical degradation and the elevated electron irradiation was investigated. The insulating function and crystallinity properties correlated to its degradation factors as electron irradiation and corona discharge time will be discussed in this work. In this paper, the PET samples were polarized under a corona discharge configuration. Moreover, the surface potential induced by surface charge accumulation effect were tested. A DSC measurement was conducted on these samples. As a result, the bell shaped surface charge distribution and three DSC curves were provided. This paper will present the effect of potential induced aging and electron avalanche caused by corona discharge on the crystallinity of backsheet in solar photovoltaic system for sustainable energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Consumer values, including but not limited to materialism, have received much less attention than other topics within research on Asian Americans.Methods: Across 3 studies (N = 6,955), the author explored the difference between Asian Americans and White/European Americans on materialism, and the mediating and moderating mechanisms.Results: Studies 1a-1c found Asian Americans, compared to White/European Americans, more strongly endorsed materialistic values. In Study 2, the author tested a multiple mediation model and demonstrated that Asian Americans, compared to White/European Americans, more strongly endorse materialistic values because they reported higher extrinsic aspirations (i.e., stronger desires for money, image, and popularity). Finally, in Study 3, the author tested a moderation model and found that Asian Americans who are higher on a general tendency to adhere to norms endorse a greater level of materialism than White/European Americans.Conclusions: The author discussed how these results have implications for expanding the research topics within research on Asian Americans, consequences for mental health and provide future directions to counteract materialism. (PsycINFO Database Record [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene-fullerene hybrids were facilely fabricated by self-assembly of graphene oxide (GO) and multi-substituted fulleropyrrolidines (PyrC 60 ). The hybrids (GO-PyrC 60 ) were applied as support materials to deposit Pd nanoparticle catalyst by a simple hydrothermal co-reduction approach. The as-prepared electrocatalysts (Pd/RGO-PyrC 60 ) were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), respectively. The RGO-PyrC 60 hybrid supported Pd catalyst with the optimal ratio of RGO to PyrC 60 , exhibited much enhanced electrocatalytic activity and stability toward methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) compared to the RGO alone supported Pd as well as commercial Pd/C. The introduction of fulleropyrrolidine as spacer between graphene layers could increase the electrocatalytic activity and improve the long-term stability. This strategy may contribute to developing graphene-fullerene hydrids as effective support materials for advanced electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have suggested that metformin may improve the survival rate of patients with pancreatic cancer (PC) by regulating the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. Rapamycin specifically targets mTOR. In the present study, the efficacy of metformin and rapamycin in isolation and combination were investigated for the treatment of PC. The efficacy of metformin and rapamycin in reducing the proliferation of PC cell line SW1990 in vitro and in vivo was evaluated. It was revealed that metformin (10 mmol/l) + rapamycin (2 ng/ml), metformin (15 mmol/l) + rapamycin (20 ng/ml) and metformin (20 mmol/l) + rapamycin (200 ng/ml) significantly inhibited the viability of PC cells compared with untreated cells. Additionally, metformin (20 mmol/l) + rapamycin (200 ng/ml) significantly suppressed the expression of phosphorylated mTOR compared with metformin or rapamycin alone. Using a xenograft tumor model, it was revealed that combination treatment significantly inhibited the growth of PC cells compared with monotherapy. The present study revealed that a combination of metformin and rapamycin synergistically inhibited the growth of PC in vitro and in vivo and may be a potential treatment option for patients with PC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulose-supported palladium nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared by straightforward deposition of metal NPs on modified cellulose. The catalyst exhibited excellent catalytic activity and selectivity in room-temperature hydrogenation of various nitroarenes to arylamines under atmospheric hydrogen pressure in neat water without any additives. High chemoselectivity was also achieved in the hydrogenation of substituted nitroarenes with multiple reducible groups. The catalyst can be recycled by simple centrifugation and reused for at least 4 times without significant decline of yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attributing responsibility for a romantic breakup to the self can have dual effects on psychological adjustment, exacerbating disruptive thoughts and feelings, yet also increasing the likelihood of positive changes. Three studies (N = 441) examined whether these dual effects associated with attributing responsibility for a romantic breakup to the self are moderated by self-compassion. Supporting this assertion, trait self-compassion predicted better romantic outlook (Studies 1 & 2), and induced self-compassion predicted greater intended future romantic partner appreciation (Study 3), among people who attributed greater responsibility of a breakup to themselves. In addition, higher trait (Study 2) and induced self-compassion (Study 3) boosted self-improvement motivation with regard to future relationships among participants who attributed responsibility of a romantic breakup to themselves. These adjustment-promoting tendencies associated with self-compassion held controlling for a range of variables known to impact romantic breakup adjustment (e.g., self-esteem, attachment styles, and prior relationship characteristics). We discuss possible mechanisms for these effects and broader implications for future self-compassion research. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A MIL-100(Fe) supported Pd–Ni BMNP catalyst has been fabricated, and the catalyst exhibits superior catalytic performance toward the intramolecular transfer hydrogenolysis of lignin model compounds and organosolv lignin. Alcoholic groups (CαH-OH) of lignin were exploited as the hydrogen source, and selective cleavage of β-O-4 linkages in lignin was realized without an extra hydrogen donor. This protocol was suitable for organosolv lignin as well as model compounds; several phenols and functionalized acetophenones were detected when extracted lignin was treated in our system. The catalyst exhibits outstanding catalytic stability during the reaction process, which can be ascribed to the porous structure and the strong water stability of MIL-100(Fe). The excellent catalytic performance of Pd1Ni4/MIL-100(Fe) highlights the “synergistic effect” between the BMNPs and the functional synergy between MNPs and MOFs, and our work shows the bright future of BMNPs and MOFs in the development of catalysts for sustainable chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In modern engineering applications, composite walls have drawn much attention owing to their good mechanical properties and standardized production. In this study, the multi-celled corrugated-plate CFST wall (MCCW) was studied experimentally and numerically as an innovative type of composite wall in engineering structures. Seven full-scaled MCCW specimens were tested, in which axial force ratios and sectional dimensions were considered as the main research variables. The typical deformation modes were classified and discussed, and the global buckling mode was observed after the load-carrying capacity dropped to 85% of the ultimate load for the specimens with axial force ratios of 0.55 and 0.65. In addition, the load-bearing capacity, ductility, stiffness and energy dissipation capacity of these specimens were evaluated in detail. The ductility factors of almost all specimens were greater than 3.0, and the final equivalent damping coefficients of all specimens exceeded 0.3. The key design parameters including axial force ratio and width of end steel tube were recommended for practical application of MCCWs. Furthermore, a finite element (FE) model was established and validated by test results. In general, this study can provide valuable references for practical designs of MCCW members under seismic effects. • MCCW is a novel composite wall system with high resistant and economic efficiencies. • Seven MCCW specimens were tested under axial constant and lateral cyclic loads. • Load-bearing capacity, ductility, stiffness and energy dissipation capacity of the specimens were evaluated. • Key design parameters of axial force ratio and width of end steel tube were recommended. • Refined FE models were established and validated for extensive numerical study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient, recyclable Pd–Cu bimetallic nanoparticle catalyst has been prepared, which exhibits superior activity and selectivity toward the hydrosilylation of internal and terminal alkynes under mild reaction conditions with a low catalyst loading. Distinct enhancement in catalytic performance is observed when compared with traditional monometallic catalysts, and the composition of BMNPs is found to be crucial in both selectivity and yield. This kind of elevation in catalytic performance can be ascribed to the enrichment of active sites (Pd) on the catalyst surface and a phenomenon collectively referred to as “synergistic effects”. The successful application of BMNPs as catalysts in the alkyne hydrosilylation opens up new possibilities for the excavation of the value of bimetallic nanoparticles in catalysts’ development for sustainable chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The corona discharge techniques, which are employed to orient dipoles and built up charges inside functional polymers, can develop important commercial applications of electroactive polymers (EAPs) and electrets for energy storage devices, air filters, electroacoustic and electromechanical transducers. We propose hereby an elective hybrid approach to the point-plane corona modeling in order to obtain more accurate electron flow in unipolar corona discharge system. A coupled system of partial differential equations (PDEs) w.r.t. Navier-stokes equations and hydrodynamic drift diffusion equations described the nature of photo-ionization, where the secondary avalanche in the discharge process was demonstrated. The simulation was verified by comparison with Surface Potential (SP) measurement of the nano-composites after corona polarization. Consequently, the spacial electric potential distribution and initial surface potential could be obtained by the means of finite elements method (FEM), which provided a good numerical approach for the experimental data of electrostatic surface potential. In addition, the influence of nano particle on the charge retain ability of the insulating polymers was also investigated, which could be a guideline for designing an effective poling method on the functional polymers applied in electrical energy storage devices sensors, actuators and transducer etc. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Ternary NiCoPd nanocatalyst dispersed on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs), NiCoPd/CNTs, was synthesized using a simple and green sonochemical method. The as-prepared NiCoPd/CNT hybrids were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). The electrochemical measurements revealed that the ternary NiCoPd/CNTs exhibited an enhanced electrocatalytic activity for the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR), much superior to those of the binary NiPd/CNT and CoPd/CNT, as well as monometallic Pd/CNT counterparts, which likely resulted from the synergistic function of the dopant metals of Ni and Co. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Lamotrigine (LTG) is a broad-spectrum antiepileptic drug that is widely used in clinic. However, the effect of LTG on cognition and neurodegeneration during epilepsy treatment remains controversial. In this study, we compared the cognitive effects of LTG and sodium valproate in pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-kindled animal model, and the dose dependency was tested for LTG. Methods PTZ-kindled animals were divided into the following treatment groups: control group, treated with 3.5 mL/kg of 0.9% sodium chloride; low-dose LTG group, treated with 12.5 mg/kg of LTG; middle-dose LTG group, treated with 25 mg/kg of LTG; high-dose LTG group, treated with 50 mg/kg of LTG; VPA group, treated with 300 mg/kg of VPA. The Morris Water Maze (MWM) test commenced from the 10th day of treatment. Hippocampal cell apoptosis was determined by TUNEL staining after two weeks of treatment. Results Compared to the vehicle-treated control group, escape latency was significantly reduced in the middle- and high-dose LTG- and VPA-treated groups on the 3rd and 4th day of the MWM test ( p < .05), and spatial probe frequency was significantly improved in the middle- and high-dose LTG- and VPA-treated groups ( p < .05). Furthermore, the immunohistochemical score of TUNEL positive cells significantly decreased in the hippocampal CA1 region in the middle- and high-dose LTG- and VPA-treated groups ( p < .05). Conclusion Our data suggests that LTG may ameliorate epilepsy-induced cognitive impairment and neuronal cell apoptosis during epilepsy treatment. LTG may ameliorate cognitive impairment and neuronal cell apoptosis during epilepsy treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a method of tool posture global collision-free area generation for 5-axis machining point clouds. For obtaining precise collision-free area efficiently, discrete inclination angles and their collision-free rotation angle ranges are calculated to construct the area in two-dimensional configuration space (C-space), which avoids mapping obstacles to C-space or searching boundaries. An equation is derived to calculate the maximum available angle tolerance between an inclination angle and its neighboring angle. For collision-free rotation angle ranges, possible colliding cells containing data points are obtained to calculate the approximations of ranges quickly. An efficient iterative algorithm based on distances is presented to search critical colliding points to calculate theoretical ranges, which effectively avoids unnecessary additional computation. Finally, the collision-free area in C-space is constructed by the calculated collision-free rotation angle ranges of all inclination angles. Two typical point clouds are tested by the presented method, and the calculation results illustrate the feasibility to be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By taking advantage of the redox cycle between the reductive N-oxyl radical and its oxidative oxoammonium counterpart, the N-oxyl-radical-catalyzed intermolecular aminohydroxylation of styrenes with N-fluorobenzenesulfonimide was developed. Various vinyl arenes were aminohydroxylated in moderate to excellent yields with high regio- and diastereoselectivities by using environmentally benign H2O as the oxygen source. In addition, the sequential inter/intramolecular aminoalkoxylation of homoallylic alcohols was also achieved under anhydrous conditions, which allowed the exclusive synthesis of pharmaceutically useful 2-aryl-3-amino-disubstituted tetrahydrofurans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The β-O-4 linkage in lignin can be selectively cleaved by Pd–Ni bimetallic nanoparticles supported on ZrO2 using hydrogen gas as the hydrogen donor under ambient pressure and neutral conditions. Conspicuous enhancement in activity is observed compared with single nickel and palladium catalysts based on the results of experiments and characterization. Moreover, hydrogenation of the produced phenols is tuned by adjusting the amount of NaBH4. The catalyst can be reused over ten times in the model reaction and over five times in the hydrogenolysis of lignin without an obvious change in activity and selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an effort to provide a measure of time perspective that can be used across the life-span, we examined the psychometric properties of the Adolescent Time Inventory-Time Attitude Scale (ATI-TA; Mello & Worrell, 2007) in three independent samples of young ( N = 388), middle ( N = 201), and older adults ( N = 189). Results provided strong psychometric evidence that the ATI-TA can be used appropriately with individuals across adolescence and adulthood. Specifically, internal consistency estimates indicated that scores on the six subscales (Past Positive, Past Negative, Present Positive, Present Negative, Future Positive, & Future Negative) were reliable across the three samples. Confirmatory factor analyses showed that the theorized six-factor structure had acceptable fit and fit the data better than alternate models. Subsequent analyses provided support for invariance across young, middle, and older adults. Overall, these results show that the ATI-TA yields reliable scores and a valid structure across adulthood and can be used to measure time perspective throughout the life-span. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a method of tool posture local collision-free area generation for 5-axis machining point clouds. Considering it is time-consuming and complicated to calculate the entire precise area, in this paper, discrete inclination angles are obtained in its available range, and the precise collision-free rotation angle ranges of each inclination angle are calculated to construct the collision-free area in 2-dimensional configuration space (C-space). In local gouging avoidance, an algorithm is presented to calculate the maximum equivalent tool radius with the local contour line of the point cloud near the cutter contact (CC) point, which defines the local gouging-free ranges of rotation angles and discrete inclination angles. In rear gouging avoidance, if the tool rotates by some specific angles, a rear gouging point will be outside the tool and the gouging is avoided. Based on the way, an algorithm is presented to calculate the gouging-free ranges for discrete inclination angles. Finally, the intersections of local and rear gouging-free rotation angle ranges define the collision-free area. This presented method applies to flat-end milling cutter and torus milling cutter, and two examples are given to illustrate the feasibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly dispread Ni-Co bimetallic nanoparticles (Ni-Co BMNPs) are synthesized and applied as an efficient catalyst in the chemoselective transfer hydrogenation of nitroarenes (CTH) using hydrazine hydrate as the hydrogen donor. The BMNPs can efficiently catalyze the reduction reaction without any additives under mild conditions with high TOF. Significantly higher activity is achieved when compared with corresponding single-component catalysts, optimal composition of the Ni-Co BMNPs was screened which was proved to be crucial in both the selectivity and yields. Excellent performance of Ni-Co BMNPs can be ascribed to the improved dispersion of active sites on the BMNPs surface (compared with Ni NPs) and the electron transfer from cobalt to nickel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi-cellular concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) columns have been widely used in frame structures for seismic resisting purposes. In this paper, the seismic performance of single-story composite frame structures, consisting of T-shaped multi-cellular CFST (TM-CFST) columns connected with steel beams, was investigated. Four specimens of the composite frame structures under constant vertical compressive loads and quasi-static lateral cyclic loads were tested to explore the hysteretic performance. Refined finite element (FE) models were developed to provide a benchmark modeling approach that was able to accurately capture the mechanical behavior of the composite frame structures. The FE analysis results were compared with those measured from tests, showing satisfactory coincidence between the experimental and simulated results. Hence, the validity of the setup in the FE model was verified. Following the validation of the FE modeling approach, a parametric study was conducted, involving the parameters of axial force ratio, beam-to-column linear stiffness ratio, cross-sectional dimensions of columns and width of frame. On this basis, the seismic performance of the composite frames was investigated by analyzing the characteristics including stiffness, strength, ductility, and energy-dissipating abilities. The TM-CFST frames are applicable for low- and medium-rise building structures. In practical designs of the TM-CFST frames, the beam-to-column stiffness ratios should be carefully selected to guarantee that the beam reaches full-sectional plasticity before the column at the beam-column joint, fulfilling the requirement of seismic resistant designs. • Hysteretic performance of TM-CFST frames was studied. • Four specimens of the composite TM-CFST frame structures were tested. • FE models were established and validated against tests. • FE parametric study was conducted involving three key design parameters. • Seismic characteristics of TM-CFST frames were investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the presumed national economic benefits that result from high levels of discretionary spending, past studies suggest that material consumption decreases individual economic and subjective well-being. However, most research on the development of materialistic values has examined how persuasive materialistic messages cause materialism. We recruited 2702 participants to test our prediction that living in wealthy neighborhoods should increase material desires and maladaptive consumption in much the same way it decreases happiness. Interestingly, our regression models revealed that individual socioeconomic status (SES) and neighborhood SES have unique, and opposite, predictive patterns of material consumption. Specifically, after controlling for age, gender, and population size, greater neighborhood SES predicted greater desires for material consumption, more impulsive buying, and fewer savings behaviors while individual SES showed the reverse pattern. Our path model suggests that greater neighborhood SES leads to increased material desires, which then predicts more frequent impulsive buying, and fewer savings behaviors. We discuss why neighborhood SES might change values and consumer behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzed the chemical constituents of the essential oil (EO) of Kaempferia rotunda L. and the bioactivities of the predominant compounds. Results obtained from GC/MS analysis indicated 14 compounds, which accounted for 96.66% of the total extract. Among them, the most abundant compound was benzyl benzoate (81.13%), followed by bornyl acetate (4.51%). EO from the medicinal plant K. rotunda inhibited the potent toxicity of Lasioderma serricorne and Liposcelis bostrychophila (LD50=17.1μg/adult and 18.6 μg/adult). K. rotunda oil also exerted strong repellency against three target insects at high concentrations. Based on the theory of the grey correlation analysis, EO from K. rotunda performed better than benzyl benzoate but worse than bornyl acetate on the repellency against Tribolium castaneum. Benzyl benzoate possessed excellent contact toxicity with three target insects. Meanwhile, the binary mixture of two main compounds (benzyl benzoate and bornyl acetate) was evaluated for contact toxicity with T.castaneum for the first time. The synergistic effect in natural ratios has been observed, suggesting that unique mechanisms of action should be responsible for EO toxicity. Plant-derived insecticides appear suitable for developing control means against stored product insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alpinia zerumbet cv. 'Variegata', as a special spice, has attracted social attention for its potential to replace synthetic chemicals as insecticides and repellents in food protection. In this work, the essential oils (EOs) from different organs of Alpinia zerumbet cv. 'Variegata' (stem and leaf, flower, and rhizome) were extracted by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The contact toxicities and repellent activities of the extracted EOs, along with their common components, against three insect species (Tribolium castaneum, Lasioderma serricorne, and Liposcelis bostrychophila) were evaluated. GC-MS analysis identified 25 components, and eucalyptol and camphor were the common primary components in the three EOs. The result showed that EOs and the main components (eucalyptol and camphor) exhibited varying degrees of contact toxicity and repellent activity against three insect species. Camphor exhibited more obvious contact toxicity than eucalyptol against both insect species (L.serricorne and L.bostrychophila), but the toxic effect was opposite for T.castaneum. The gray relation analysis explained that REOA had the strongest repellency against L.serricorne, with a coefficient of 0.52. The results in this study suggest that EOs of A.zerumbet cv. 'Variegata' have the potential to be developed into botanical insecticides and repellents to control stored-product insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Buying tendencies, not values, moderate the experiential advantage. [•] Material buyers experience equal happiness from experiential and material purchases. [•] This is because they report the same level of identity expression from their purchases. [•] The personality profile for materialists may be more distinctive than it is normative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the electric field induced by rotating magnetic propeller, a mathematical model is proposed to calculate the electromagnetic signals induced by a rotating magnetic dipole based on the Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. An experiment is done in the laboratory pool to test the analytical method. The results show that the signal's order of magnitude is proportional to the rotational frequency and magnetic moment, its frequency is consistent with the rotational frequency, and the phase differences of three axis are π/2 and π, respectively. The research proves that the electric field is a part of shaft-rate electric field of ship, which complements the mechanism of production of the shaft-rate electric field, and provides a theoretical basis for the detection or control of ship's shaft-rate electric field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zimbardo and Boyd (1999) developed the 56-item Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory (ZTPI). It has become the leading measure used in the study of subjective time. In this article, we report an abbreviated ZTPI that only includes 15 total items (SZTPI-15). We tested the psychometric characteristics of the SZTPI-15 by focusing on: (a) convergent and discriminant validity, (b) external validity, (c) test–retest reliability and (d) self-peer ratings. On the basis of these tests, the results demonstrated that the short version was less reliable than the standard ZTPI but showed impressive psychometric convergence with the standard ZTPI. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]