The impact of molecular weight on the segregative phase separation-induced molecular fractionation of aqueous gum Arabic/xanthan mixtures

Segregative phase separation of natural polymers has drawn significant research interest because of its diverse applications in the food industry. However, there is limited research on how molecular weight (Mw) influences segregative phase separation. This study aims to investigate the impact of Mw on segregative phase separation-induced molecular fractionation in mixed gum Arabic/Xanthan (GA/XG) solutions. The analysis focused on a single type of gum Arabic (referred to as EM10), with the molecular weights of both solid and liquid xanthan gum (XG) samples being altered through 60Coγ irradiation. These modified samples were evaluated using gel permeation chromatography combined with multi-angle laser light scattering (GPC-MALLS). The results demonstrated that the fractionation process of GA increased the content of the arabinogalactan-protein complex (AGP), increasing from an initial 29 % to a final 40 % within the GA/XG system (fixed with a mixture of 8 % EM10/0.8 % XG). When analyzing phase separation-induced molecular fractionation as a function of Mw, an increase in Mw (3.6 × 105–1.9 × 106) was associated with a corresponding rise in the degree of phase separation-induced fractionation. This was attributed to the irradiation-mediated breakage of XG chains. This study deeply analyzed the effect of Mw on the phase separation behavior and molecular fractionation mechanism of the GA/XG system. The results showed that when the Mw of XG was 3.6 × 105 (XG4) as a minimum, the AGP content was 29 % when mixed with GA, and when the Mw of XG was 1.9 × 106 (Control XG) as a maximum, the AGP content was 40 % when mixed with GA. The increase of Mw optimised the emulsion stabilisation property of GA significantly, which provided great practical value for its industrial applications

Artificial Intelligence in Wireless Communications: An Overview of Present-day Paradigms

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into wireless communications is growing rapidly. This growth is primarily driven by machine learning (ML) techniques, which can be broadly categorized into supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. Today, AI-based paradigms are transforming the field of wireless communications by enhancing various aspects, from the rapid design and optimization of components and devices to the robust analysis and characterization of entire systems and networks. This includes advanced systems such as present-day fifth-generation mobile (5G) and the upcoming sixth-generation mobile (6G) systems and networks. AI techniques also offer promising solutions to numerous design and development challenges in modern wireless communications. These challenges encompass enhancing power and energy effi-ciency, meeting stringent performance criteria, and improving the overall reliability of wireless communication devices, systems, and networks. This paper provides an overview of current paradigms demonstrating the application of AI, particularly ML techniques, in wireless communications

Low velocity oblique impact behaviour of glass, carbon and aramid fibre reinforced polymer laminates

This paper provides a numerical comparative analysis of the low-velocity oblique impact performance of glass, carbon and aramid fiber reinforced polymer laminates with different quasi-isotropic and symmetric stacking sequences. To ensure accuracy of simulation results, the numerical model was validated using previously published experimental data. Puck failure criterion was applied for both the validation case and the numerical results’ evaluation and benchmarking. The results shown that, within the oblique impact angles from 0° to 60°, the most critical angles produced damage are 25° and above 55°. ANSYS Composite PrepPost + Transient Structural software was used for numerical setup and simulation

Hydrophobic derivatization of sodium alginate for use in fucoxanthin delivery

The present study successfully devised an innovative pH-sensitive system for encapsulating fucoxanthin, which effectively shielded RAW 264.7 cells from H2O2-induced damage. The formulation requires modification of sodium alginate with octanoyl chloride (C8) via esterification to provide amphiphilic self-assembly capacity of the system and loading of fucoxanthin via sonication. The hydration diameter (193.9–167.9 nm) and critical aggregation concentration of the micellar-like aggregates (1.4–0.5 mg/mL) gradually decreased with the increasing degree of substitution (1.54 %–60.20 %). The encapsulation efficiency (46.11 %–88.54 %) and loading capacity (4.61 %–8.85 %) showed a positive correlation with the increasing degree of substitution. The TEM confirmed complete fucoxanthin encapsulation in micellar-like aggregates, forming smooth-surfaced spherical particles. In vitro simulated digestion assays demonstrated that micellar-like aggregates effectively shielded fucoxanthin from premature gastric release, while significantly improving its release efficiency during the intestinal phase. Fucoxanthin-loaded micellar-like aggregates endocytosed by RAW 264.7 cells alleviated cellular oxidative stress damage by reducing ROS levels. The study demonstrates the potential of self-assembled sodium alginate nanoparticles as a novel carrier for efficient delivery of hydrophobic substances, thereby establishing an innovative formulation for alleviating oxidative stress

Ecological Citizenship and the Co-Design of Inclusive and Resilient Pathways for Sustainable Transitions

Achieving climate neutrality and the provision of a route to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero or below requires a significant shift from a focus on top-down technological solutions to a more holistic, people-centred approach. The research presented here explores the role of ecological citizenship (EC) in this shift, and specifically how a socially innovative, co-designed approach to facilitating EC and the systemic changes needed for carbon neutrality could or should take place. The paper presents EC as an evolving practice that emphasises the responsibility of individuals and communities towards ecological sustainability and social equity. The study examines how various stakeholders, such as industry practitioners, third-sector organisations, and community members, communicate, understand, and implement EC practices, projects, and solutions, using a mixed-methods approach that includes roundtable talks and workshops. As such, the study emphasises the value of user-centred, co-designed proposals that enable individuals to actively participate in positive climate action. It also looks at the opportunities and challenges of incorporating EC into wider societal and legislative norms. At the municipal, regional, and national levels, we feel the results offer useful insights into how design processes, environmental programs, and participatory governance approaches may promote more sustainable, inclusive transitions and support achieving carbon neutrality

Resilience training to support teachers on a post-compulsory education and training programme

This study evaluates the implementation of a resilience training programme within a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (Post-Compulsory Education and Training). The research aims to address low retention rates in both the academic programme and subsequent teaching roles. Existing literature highlights the barriers faced by student teachers and practising educators, including stress, increased workload, performativity measures, and inadequate support (Ofsted, 2019; EWC, 2020; Department for Education, 2018). A pragmatic mixed-methods approach was adopted, using a convergent design to evaluate the impact of a resilience intervention based on themes from resilience training in other sectors. Interventions included Duckworth’s (2016) Grit questionnaire, hermeneutic dialogue circles, and reflective journaling. The findings from this research suggest that while the Grit questionnaire has limitations as a diagnostic tool, the resilience training provided benefits such as improved self-awareness, critical reflection, and the value of collaborative safe spaces. However, translating these skills into professional practice remains challenging due to systemic pressures in the workplace (Jennings et al., 2017; Shaw et al., 2016). The study concludes that resilience training is beneficial but must be supported by organisational structures to be sustained post-qualification (Reivich et al., 2011; Precious & Lindsay, 2019)

Large deformation of food gels: Influencing factors, theories, models, and applications—A review

Gels possess remarkable properties, and they hold particular importance in food science. After consumption, food gels undergo large deformation, which impacts the overall texture of the food. This process is influenced by various factors, including temperature, pressure, and presence of crosslinking agents. Comprehensive insights into the interplay among these factors and gel texture, combined with the theoretical exploration of gel deformation, enable the development of foods to meet consumer preferences. To bolster the development of food gels, in this review, we summarize the factors affecting the large deformation of gels Moreover, we discuss various mathematical models established by food scientists to explore the large deformation of food gels and explore applications thereof. We expect that these insights into the large deformation of gels can lead to their increased utilization in the food industry

Artificial Intelligence-Driven Sensitivity Analysis: Present-Day Approaches in Software-Defined Networking

This paper presents an overview of how artificial intelligence (AI) techniques are being explored for sensitivity analysis in the context of software-defined networking (SDN). Sensitivity analysis (SA) is pivotal in determining the influence of variable inputs on system outputs, a process essential for the enhancement of SDN's performance and dependability. The incorporation of AI techniques, especially machine learning algorithms, has led to substantial progress in executing both local and global sensitivity analyses within SDN frameworks. Such progress is instrumental in improving the network's adaptability, operational efficiency, and security measures. This paper highlights some of the present-day methodologies and practical applications in this area, focusing on the role of AI in refining sensitivity analysis in SDN. The objective is to provide a brief overview of the latest research developments for scholars engaged in this rapidly growing field

Jellyfish collagen: A promising and sustainable marine biomaterial with emerging applications in food, cosmetics, and biomedical - A review

In recent years, consumer awareness of the benefits of collagen has driven a steady increase in demand for collagen-based products. However, mammalian collagen poses health risks and may not be suitable for individuals due to religious reasons. As a result, marine collagen has emerged as a safer and more promising alternative, gaining significant attention. Jellyfish collagen, in particular, has shown potential as a transformative marine biomaterial with applications in food, supplements, cosmetics, medicine, and biomedical materials. It offers several advantages, including antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and immunomodulatory activities. Despite its potential, jellyfish collagen products are still scarce in the market. This review examines the extraction and characterization of jellyfish collagen, its physicochemical properties, and the opportunities and challenges in utilizing this marine collagen. Finally, it explores the potential commercial value and future product development to enhance human health

‘Hypercobalaminuria’ – Is urinary cobalamin loss a potential determinant of parenteral cobalamin (B12) efficacy in Pernicious Anaemia?

It is unknown why many patients with pernicious anaemia are satisfactorily treated with injections of hydroxocobalamin or cyanocobalamin every 1–3 months whereas others require far more frequent replacement regimens, sometimes even weekly. A substantial but inconstant fraction of an injected dose of cobalamin is excreted in the urine within 72 h of injection, with subsequent loss of variable smaller amounts. We hypothesize the existence of ‘hypercobalaminuria’, whereby increased urinary cobalamin losses constitute a currently unrecognized factor influencing treatment refractoriness in some individuals. The hypothesis is testable by comparing cobalamin urinary losses in patients needing frequent as opposed to 1–3-monthly injections of cobalamin to remain symptom free. It implies that ‘less-responsive’ patients are likely to have significant hypercobalaminuria