bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Androgen dihydrotestosterone promotes bladder cancer cell proliferation and invasion via EPPK1-mediated MAPK/JUP signalling
Authors: Yang Long , Huang Wen , Bai Xiaoyu , Wang Haoyu , Wang Xiaolei , Xiao Huiyuan , Li Yanlei
Published: June 2023

The incidence of bladder cancer (BLCA) in men is higher than that in women. Differences in androgen levels between men and women are considered the main causes of incidence rate differences. In this study, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) significantly increased the proliferation and invasion of BLCA cells. In addition, BLCA formation and metastatic rates were higher in N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl) nitrosamine (BBN)-treated male mice than in female and castrated male mice in vivo. However, immunohistochemistry showed that androgen receptor (AR) was expressed at low levels in normal and BLCA tissues of men and women. The classical AR pathway considers that DHT binds to AR and induces it to enter the nucleus, where it functions as a transcription factor. Here, a non-AR combination pathway of androgen that promoted BLCA development was investigated. The EPPK1 protein was bombarded with DHT, as determined by biotinylated DHT-binding pull-down experiments. EPPK1 was highly expressed in BLCA tissues, and EPPK1 knockdown significantly inhibited BLCA cell proliferation and invasion promoted by DHT. Moreover, JUP expression was elevated in DHT-treated high-EPPK1 expressing cells, and JUP knockdown inhibited cell proliferation and invasion. EPPK1 overexpression increased tumour growth and JUP expression in nude mice. Furthermore, DHT increased the expression of the MAPK signals p38, p-p38, and c-Jun, and c-Jun could bind to the JUP promoter. However, the promotion of p38, p-p38, and c-Jun expression by DHT was not observed in EPPK1 knockdown cells, and a p38 inhibitor suppressed the DHT-induced effects, indicating that p38 MAPK may be involved in the regulation of DHT-dependent EPPK1-JUP-promoted BLCA cell proliferation and invasion. The growth of bladder tumours in BBN-treated mice was inhibited by the addition of the hormone inhibitor goserelin. Our findings indicated the potential oncogenic role and mechanism of DHT in BLCA pathogenesis through a non-AR pathway, which may serve as a novel therapeutic target for BLCA.
Electric double layer-mediated polarization field for optimizing photogenerated carrier dynamics and thermodynamics
Authors: Zhou Chengxin , Gao Jian , Deng Yunlong , Wang Ming , Li Dan , Xia Chuan
Published: June 2023

Photocatalytic hydrogen evolution efficiency is limited due to unfavorable carrier dynamics and thermodynamic performance. Here, we propose to introduce electronegative molecules to build an electric double layer (EDL) to generate a polarization field instead of the traditional built-in electric field to improve carrier dynamics, and optimize the thermodynamics by regulating the chemical coordination of surface atoms. Based on theoretical simulation, we designed CuNi@EDL and applied it as the cocatalyst of semiconductor photocatalysts, finally achieved a hydrogen evolution rate of 249.6 mmol h−1g−1and remained stable after storing under environmental conditions for more than 300 days. The high H2yield is mainly due to the perfect work function, Fermi level and Gibbs free energy of hydrogen adsorption, improved light absorption ability, enhanced electron transfer dynamics, decreased HER overpotential and effective carrier transfer channel arose by EDL. Here, our work opens up new perspectives for the design and optimization of photosystems.
Signaling mechanisms in renal compensatory hypertrophy revealed by multi-omics
Authors: Kikuchi Hiroaki , Chou Chung-Lin , Yang Chin-Rang , Chen Lihe , Jung Hyun Jun , Park Euijung , Limbutara Kavee , Carter Benjamin , Yang Zhi-Hong , Kun Julia F. , Remaley Alan T. , Knepper Mark A.
Published: June 2023

Loss of a kidney results in compensatory growth of the remaining kidney, a phenomenon of considerable clinical importance. However, the mechanisms involved are largely unknown. Here, we use a multi-omic approach in a unilateral nephrectomy model in male mice to identify signaling processes associated with renal compensatory hypertrophy, demonstrating that the lipid-activated transcription factor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) is an important determinant of proximal tubule cell size and is a likely mediator of compensatory proximal tubule hypertrophy.
Multivalent bicyclic peptides are an effective antiviral modality that can potently inhibit SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Gaynor Katherine U. , Vaysburd Marina , Harman Maximilian A. J. , Albecka Anna , Jeffrey Phillip , Beswick Paul , Papa Guido , Chen Liuhong , Mallery Donna , McGuinness Brian , Van Rietschoten Katerine , Stanway Steven , Brear Paul , Lulla Aleksei , Ciazynska Katarzyna , Chang Veronica T. , Sharp Jo , Neary Megan , Box Helen , Herriott Jo , Kijak Edyta , Tatham Lee , Bentley Eleanor G. , Sharma Parul , Kirby Adam , Han Ximeng , Stewart James P. , Owen Andrew , Briggs John A. G. , Hyvönen Marko , Skynner Michael J. , James Leo C.
Published: June 2023

COVID-19 has stimulated the rapid development of new antibody and small molecule therapeutics to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection. Here we describe a third antiviral modality that combines the drug-like advantages of both. Bicycles are entropically constrained peptides stabilized by a central chemical scaffold into a bi-cyclic structure. Rapid screening of diverse bacteriophage libraries against SARS-CoV-2 Spike yielded unique Bicycle binders across the entire protein. Exploiting Bicycles’ inherent chemical combinability, we converted early micromolar hits into nanomolar viral inhibitors through simple multimerization. We also show how combining Bicycles against different epitopes into a single biparatopic agent allows Spike from diverse variants of concern (VoC) to be targeted (Alpha, Beta, Delta and Omicron). Finally, we demonstrate in both male hACE2-transgenic mice and Syrian golden hamsters that both multimerized and biparatopic Bicycles reduce viraemia and prevent host inflammation. These results introduce Bicycles as a potential antiviral modality to tackle new and rapidly evolving viruses.
Pen-drawn Marangoni swimmer
Authors: Song Seo Woo , Lee Sumin , Choe Jun Kyu , Lee Amos Chungwon , Shin Kyoungseob , Kang Junwon , Kim Gyeongjun , Yeom Huiran , Choi Yeongjae , Kwon Sunghoon , Kim Jiyun
Published: June 2023

Pen-drawing is an intuitive, convenient, and creative fabrication method for delivering emergent and adaptive design to real devices. To demonstrate the application of pen-drawing to robot construction, we developed pen-drawn Marangoni swimmers that perform complex programmed tasks using a simple and accessible manufacturing process. By simply drawing on substrates using ink-based Marangoni fuel, the swimmers demonstrate advanced robotic motions such as polygon and star-shaped trajectories, and navigate through maze. The versatility of pen-drawing allows the integration of the swimmers with time-varying substrates, enabling multi-step motion tasks such as cargo delivery and return to the original place. We believe that our pen-based approach will significantly expand the potential applications of miniaturized swimming robots and provide new opportunities for simple robotic implementations.
Cancer genomes tolerate deleterious coding mutations through somatic copy number amplifications of wild-type regions
Authors: Alfieri Fabio , Caravagna Giulio , Schaefer Martin H.
Published: June 2023

Cancers evolve under the accumulation of thousands of somatic mutations and chromosomal aberrations. While most coding mutations are deleterious, almost all protein-coding genes lack detectable signals of negative selection. This raises the question of how tumors tolerate such large amounts of deleterious mutations. Using 8,690 tumor samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas, we demonstrate that copy number amplifications frequently cover haploinsufficient genes in mutation-prone regions. This could increase tolerance towards the deleterious impact of mutations by creating safe copies of wild-type regions and, hence, protecting the genes therein. Our findings demonstrate that these potential buffering events are highly influenced by gene functions, essentiality, and mutation impact and that they occur early during tumor evolution. We show how cancer type-specific mutation landscapes drive copy number alteration patterns across cancer types. Ultimately, our work paves the way for the detection of novel cancer vulnerabilities by revealing genes that fall within amplifications likely selected during evolution to mitigate the effect of mutations.
Prediction of sub-pyramid texturing as the next step towards high efficiency silicon heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Chu Feihong , Qu Xianlin , He Yongcai , Li Wenling , Chen Xiaoqing , Zheng Zilong , Yang Miao , Ru Xiaoning , Peng Fuguo , Qu Minghao , Zheng Kun , Xu Xixiang , Yan Hui , Zhang Yongzhe
Published: June 2023

The interfacial morphology of crystalline silicon/hydrogenated amorphous silicon (c-Si/a-Si:H) is a key success factor to approach the theoretical efficiency of Si-based solar cells, especially Si heterojunction technology. The unexpected crystalline silicon epitaxial growth and interfacial nanotwins formation remain a challenging issue for silicon heterojunction technology. Here, we design a hybrid interface by tuning pyramid apex-angle to improve c-Si/a-Si:H interfacial morphology in silicon solar cells. The pyramid apex-angle (slightly smaller than 70.53°) consists of hybrid (111)0.9/(011)0.1 c-Si planes, rather than pure (111) planes in conventional texture pyramid. Employing microsecond-long low-temperature (500 K) molecular dynamic simulations, the hybrid (111)/(011) plane prevents from both c-Si epitaxial growth and nanotwin formation. More importantly, given there is not any additional industrial preparation process, the hybrid c-Si plane could improve c-Si/a-Si:H interfacial morphology for a-Si passivated contacts technique, and wide-applied for all silicon-based solar cells as well.
Hybrid-DIA: intelligent data acquisition integrates targeted and discovery proteomics to analyze phospho-signaling in single spheroids
Authors: Martínez-Val Ana , Fort Kyle , Koenig Claire , Van der Hoeven Leander , Franciosa Giulia , Moehring Thomas , Ishihama Yasushi , Chen Yu-ju , Makarov Alexander , Xuan Yue , Olsen Jesper V.
Published: June 2023

Achieving sufficient coverage of regulatory phosphorylation sites by mass spectrometry (MS)-based phosphoproteomics for signaling pathway reconstitution is challenging, especially when analyzing tiny sample amounts. To address this, we present a hybrid data-independent acquisition (DIA) strategy (hybrid-DIA) that combines targeted and discovery proteomics through an Application Programming Interface (API) to dynamically intercalate DIA scans with accurate triggering of multiplexed tandem mass spectrometry (MSx) scans of predefined (phospho)peptide targets. By spiking-in heavy stable isotope labeled phosphopeptide standards covering seven major signaling pathways, we benchmark hybrid-DIA against state-of-the-art targeted MS methods (i.e., SureQuant) using EGF-stimulated HeLa cells and find the quantitative accuracy and sensitivity to be comparable while hybrid-DIA also profiles the global phosphoproteome. To demonstrate the robustness, sensitivity, and biomedical potential of hybrid-DIA, we profile chemotherapeutic agents in single colon carcinoma multicellular spheroids and evaluate the phospho-signaling difference of cancer cells in 2D vs 3D culture.
All-ferroelectric implementation of reservoir computing
Authors: Chen Zhiwei , Li Wenjie , Fan Zhen , Dong Shuai , Chen Yihong , Qin Minghui , Zeng Min , Lu Xubing , Zhou Guofu , Gao Xingsen , Liu Jun-Ming
Published: June 2023

Reservoir computing (RC) offers efficient temporal information processing with low training cost. All-ferroelectric implementation of RC is appealing because it can fully exploit the merits of ferroelectric memristors (e.g., good controllability); however, this has been undemonstrated due to the challenge of developing ferroelectric memristors with distinctly different switching characteristics specific to the reservoir and readout network. Here, we experimentally demonstrate an all-ferroelectric RC system whose reservoir and readout network are implemented with volatile and nonvolatile ferroelectric diodes (FDs), respectively. The volatile and nonvolatile FDs are derived from the same Pt/BiFeO3/SrRuO3 structure via the manipulation of an imprint field (Eimp). It is shown that the volatile FD with Eimp exhibits short-term memory and nonlinearity while the nonvolatile FD with negligible Eimp displays long-term potentiation/depression, fulfilling the functional requirements of the reservoir and readout network, respectively. Hence, the all-ferroelectric RC system is competent for handling various temporal tasks. In particular, it achieves an ultralow normalized root mean square error of 0.017 in the Hénon map time-series prediction. Besides, both the volatile and nonvolatile FDs demonstrate long-term stability in ambient air, high endurance, and low power consumption, promising the all-ferroelectric RC system as a reliable and low-power neuromorphic hardware for temporal information processing.
Enabling long-cycling aqueous sodium-ion batteries via Mn dissolution inhibition using sodium ferrocyanide electrolyte additive
Authors: Liang Zhaoheng , Tian Fei , Yang Gongzheng , Wang Chengxin
Published: June 2023

Aqueous sodium-ion batteries (AIBs) are promising candidates for large-scale energy storage due to their safe operational properties and low cost. However, AIBs have low specific energy (i.e., <80 Wh kg−1) and limited lifespans (e.g., hundreds of cycles). Mn-Fe Prussian blue analogues are considered ideal positive electrode materials for AIBs, but they show rapid capacity decay due to Jahn-Teller distortions. To circumvent these issues, here, we propose a cation-trapping method that involves the introduction of sodium ferrocyanide (Na4Fe(CN)6) as a supporting salt in a highly concentrated NaClO4-based aqueous electrolyte solution to fill the surface Mn vacancies formed in Fe-substituted Prussian blue Na1.58Fe0.07Mn0.97Fe(CN)6 · 2.65H2O (NaFeMnF) positive electrode materials during cycling. When the engineered aqueous electrolyte solution and the NaFeMnF-based positive electrode are tested in combination with a 3, 4, 9, 10-perylenetetracarboxylic diimide-based negative electrode in a coin cell configuration, a specific energy of 94 Wh kg–1 at 0.5 A g−1 (specific energy based on the active material mass of both electrodes) and a specific discharge capacity retention of 73.4% after 15000 cycles at 2 A g−1 are achieved.
The environmental controls on efficiency of enhanced rock weathering in soils
Authors: Deng Hang , Sonnenthal Eric , Arora Bhavna , Breunig Hanna , Brodie Eoin , Kleber Markus , Spycher Nicolas , Nico Peter
Published: June 2023

Enhanced rock weathering (ERW) in soils is a promising carbon removal technology, but the realistically achievable efficiency, controlled primarily by in situ weathering rates of the applied rocks, is highly uncertain. Here we explored the impacts of coupled biogeochemical and transport processes and a set of primary environmental and operational controls, using forsterite as a proxy mineral in soils and a multiphase multi-component reactive transport model considering microbe-mediated reactions. For a onetime forsterite application of ~ 16 kg/m2, complete weathering within five years can be achieved, giving an equivalent carbon removal rate of ~ 2.3 kgCO2/m2/yr. However, the rate is highly variable based on site-specific conditions. We showed that the in situ weathering rate can be enhanced by conditions and operations that maintain high CO2 availability via effective transport of atmospheric CO2 (e.g. in well-drained soils) and/or sufficient biogenic CO2 supply (e.g. stimulated plant–microbe processes). Our results further highlight that the effect of increasing surface area on weathering rate can be significant—so that the energy penalty of reducing the grain size may be justified—only when CO2 supply is nonlimiting. Therefore, for ERW practices to be effective, siting and engineering design (e.g. optimal grain size) need to be co-optimized.
Simulated nanoindentation into single-phase fcc Fe$$_{x}$$Ni$$_{1-x}$$ alloys predicts maximum hardness for equiatomic stoichiometry
Authors: Alabd Alhafez Iyad , Deluigi Orlando R. , Tramontina Diego , Ruestes Carlos J. , Bringa Eduardo M. , Urbassek Herbert M.
Published: June 2023

We investigate by molecular dynamics simulation the mechanical behavior of concentrated alloys under nanoindentation for the special example of single-phase fcc Fe$$_{x}$$

x

Ni$$_{1-x}$$

1
-
x

alloys. The indentation hardness is maximum for the equiatomic alloy, $$x=0.5$$

x
=
0.5

. This finding is in agreement with experimental results on the strength of these alloys under uniaxial strain. We explain this finding with the increase of the unstable stacking fault energy in the alloys towards $$x=0.5$$

x
=
0.5

. With increasing Fe content, loop emission from the plastic zone under the indenter becomes less pronounced and the plastic zone features a larger fraction of screw dislocation segments; simultaneously, the length of the dislocation network and the number of atoms in the stacking faults generated in the plastic zone increase. However, the volume of twinned regions in the plastic zone is highest for the elemental solids and decreases for the alloys. This feature is explained by the fact that twinning proceeds by the glide of dislocations on adjacent parallel lattice planes; this concerted motion is less efficient in the alloys. Finally, we find that surface imprints show increasing pile-up heights with increasing Fe content. The present results will be of interest for hardness engineering or generating hardness profiles in concentrated alloys.
Human mobility patterns are associated with experienced partisan segregation in US metropolitan areas
Authors: Zhang Yongjun , Cheng Siwei , Li Zhi , Jiang Wenhao
Published: June 2023

Partisan sorting in residential environments is an enduring feature of contemporary American politics, but little research has examined partisan segregation individuals experience in activity spaces through their daily activities. Relying on advances in spatial computation and global positioning system data on everyday mobility flows collected from smartphones, we measure experienced partisan segregation in two ways: place-level partisan segregation based on the partisan composition of its daily visitors and community-level experienced partisan segregation based on the segregation level of places visited by its residents. We find that partisan segregation experienced in places varies across different geographic areas, location types, and time periods. Moreover, partisan segregation is distinct from experienced segregation by race and income. We also find that partisan segregation individuals experience is relatively lower when they visit places beyond their residential areas, but partisan segregation in residential space and activity space is strongly correlated. Residents living in predominantly black, liberal, low-income, non-immigrant, more public transit-dependent, and central city communities tend to experience a higher level of partisan segregation.
Optoelectronic performance of indium tin oxide thin films structured by sub-picosecond direct laser interference patterning
Authors: Heffner Herman , Soldera Marcos , Lasagni Andrés Fabián
Published: June 2023

A route to increase the efficiency of thin film solar cells is improving the light-trapping capacity by texturing the top Transparent Conductive Oxide (TCO) so that the sunlight reaching the solar absorber scatters into multiple directions. In this study, Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) thin films are treated by infrared sub-picosecond Direct Laser Interference Patterning (DLIP) to modify the surface topography. Surface analysis by scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy reveals the presence of periodic microchannels with a spatial period of 5 µm and an average height between 15 and 450 nm decorated with Laser-Induced Periodic Surface Structures (LIPSS) in the direction parallel to the microchannels. A relative increase in the average total and diffuse optical transmittances up to 10.7% and 1900%, respectively, was obtained in the 400–1000 nm spectral range as an outcome of the interaction of white light with the generated micro- and nanostructures. The estimation of Haacke’s figure of merit suggests that the surface modification of ITO with fluence levels near the ablation threshold might enhance the performance of solar cells that employ ITO as a front electrode.
Donor–acceptor polymer complex formation in solution confirmed by spectroscopy and atomic-scale modelling
Authors: Jalan Ishita , Marchiori Cleber F. N. , Genene Zewdneh , Johansson André , Araujo C. Moyses , Wang Ergang , van Stam Jan , Moons Ellen
Published: June 2023

Donor polymer PBDB-T and acceptor polymer PF5-Y5 form D–A complexes in solution, as confirmed by combined absorption, excitation, and emission spectroscopy of blend solutions.
Enhanced coke-resistant Co-modified Ni/modified alumina catalyst for the bireforming of methane
Authors: Panda Satyajit , Joshi Vedant , Shrivastaw Vivek Kumar , Das Subhashis , Poddar Mukesh , Bal Rajaram , Bordoloi Ankur
Published: June 2023

Biogas has been highlighted as a renewable energy and local source for syngas production via reforming techniques to combat global warming effects and energy sustainability.
Recent trends in phenol synthesis by photocatalytic oxidation of benzene
Authors: Wang Ziru , Hisahiro Einaga
Published: June 2023

This perspective introduces current homogeneous and heterogeneous photocatalytic systems for phenol synthesis and outlines several strategies to enhance phenol selectivity.
Dose-dependent effects of xylooligosaccharides on glycemic regulation with L. rhamnosus CCFM1060 in diabetic mice
Authors: Cui Mengjun , Yu Peng , Liu Tristan C. , Liu Jianguo , Li Kexin , Zhou Peng , Liu Xiaoming
Published: June 2023

Dietary intervention with L. rhamnosus CCFM1060 combined with different doses of XOS affected HFD- and STZ-induced diabetic metabolic disorders in a dose-dependent manner.
Isolation, identification and molecular docking of anti-inflammatory peptides from walnut (Juglans regia L.) meal hydrolysates
Authors: Xu Yannan , Feng Yanxia , Yang Yulan , Cheng Le , Zhou Min , Guo Yu , Ren Difeng
Published: June 2023

Four potential anti-inflammatory peptides were obtained from DWMPHs after purification and identification, and the interaction mechanism was explored by molecular docking.
Periodic trends in the structural, electronic, and transport properties of electrenes
Authors: Rafiee Diznab Mohammad , Johnson Erin R. , Maassen Jesse
Published: June 2023

Trends in the computed exfoliation energies, work functions, and transport properties of the M2X electrenes are determined by surface/interstitial charges and atomic radii of the alkaline earth metal.
Two-dimensional ferromagnetic semiconductors of monolayer BiXO3 (X = Ru, Os) with direct band gaps, high Curie temperatures, and large magnetic anisotropy
Authors: Wu Hongbo , Ma Fengxian , Tian Zhixue , Liu Ying , Jiao Yalong , Du Aijun
Published: June 2023

Two-dimensional ferromagnetic semiconductors are predicted to have direct band gaps, high Curie temperatures, and large magnetic anisotropy, and thus are promising candidates for spintronics.
Fe-mediated oxidative cascade [1 + 2 + 3]-cyclization/esterification reaction: synthesis of 4-alkylated 1,4-dihydropyridines
Authors: Liu Zhuoyuan , Sun Yulin , Zhang Mingshuai , Chen Longkun , Chen Xue-Bing , Li Xiang , Yu Fuchao
Published: June 2023

4-Alkylated 1,4-dihydropyridines are easily constructedviaan Fe-mediated cascade [1 + 2 + 3]-cyclization/esterification reaction.
Local solvation structures govern the mixing thermodynamics of glycerol–water solutions
Authors: Das Mahanta Debasish , Brown Dennis Robinson , Pezzotti Simone , Han Songi , Schwaab Gerhard , Shell M. Scott , Havenith Martina
Published: June 2023

Based on THz-spectra we quantify hydrophilic solvation and correlate with mixing enthalpy.
Effect of small amounts of akaganeite (β-FeOOH) nanorods on the gelation, phase behaviour and injectability of thermoresponsive Pluronic F127
Authors: Sangitra Surya Narayana , Pujala Ravi Kumar
Published: June 2023

Composite hydrogels containing small amounts of paramagnetic akaganeite (β-FeOOH) nanorods in PF127 triblock copolymer show enhanced thermal stability and injectability which could find applications in tissue engineering and drug delivery.
Chiral amino acid modified boron-dipyrromethene nanoparticles with different photodynamic activities
Authors: Lei Wentao , Wu Qihang , Wen Hui , Wang Yulin , Lin Wenhai , Sun Tingting , Xie Zhigang
Published: June 2023

Nanoparticles from BODIPY photosensitizers decorated with chiral amino acids have been prepared and exhibit different photodynamic activities.
Efficient emission in copper-doped Cs3ZnX5 (X = Cl, I) for white LEDs and X-ray scintillators
Authors: Yang Yubin , Wu Jianghua , Zhou Tianrui , Wang Yunluo , Zheng Jiaqian , Liu Ruifeng , Hou Jingshan , Li Xiang , Wang Lianjun , Jiang Wan , Chen Haijie
Published: June 2023

The synthesis and photoluminescence properties of copper-doped Cs3ZnX5 (X = Cl, I) have been investigated. These materials have application prospects in white LEDs and X-ray scintillators.
Influence of excitation and detection geometry on optical temperature readouts – reabsorption effects in luminescence thermometry
Authors: Stopikowska Natalia , Woźny Przemysław , Suta Markus , Zheng Teng , Lis Stefan , Runowski Marcin
Published: June 2023

Influence of excitation and detection geometry on optical temperature readouts – reabsorption effects in luminescence thermometry.
The intensity ratio variation of the Si IV 1394/1403 Å lines during solar flares
Authors: Yu H. C. , Hong J. , Ding M. D.
Published: June 2023

Context. The Si IV lines at 1394 Å and 1403 Å form in the solar atmosphere at a temperature of ∼104.8 K. They are usually considered optically thin, but their opacity can be enhanced during solar flares. Traditionally, the intensity ratio of these lines are used as an indicator of the optical thickness. However, observations have shown a wavelength-dependent intensity ratio profile r(Δλ) of the 1394 Å to 1403 Å lines.

Aims. We aim to study the variation of the intensity ratio profile in solar flares and the physical reasons behind it.

Methods. The Si IV lines and their intensity ratio profiles were calculated from the one-dimensional radiative hydrodynamics flare model with nonthermal electron heating.

Results. During flares, r(Δλ) is smaller than two at the line core but larger than two at the line wings. We attribute the deviation of the ratio from two to the following two effects: the resonance scattering effect and the opacity effect. Resonance scattering increases the population ratio of the upper levels of the two lines, and, as a result, increases r(Δλ) in all wavelengths. The opacity effect decreases r(Δλ), especially at the line core where the opacity is larger. These two effects compete with each other and cause the U shape of r(Δλ).
Performance of a CO2-based demand controlled dual core energy recovery ventilation system for northern housing experiencing varying occupancy
Authors: Ouazia Boualem , Arsenault Chantal , Brhane Sador , Lefebvre Daniel , Nong Gang , Mancini Sandra , Tardif Patrique
Published: June 2023

Indoor air quality and health are major areas of concern in northern and remote communities where homes experience varying occupancy, often overcrowding and are influenced by ventilation. Heat/energy recovery ventilators installed in the north are selected to provide required minimum ventilation rate set by ventilation standards (ASHRAE 62.2, etc.). Northern overcrowded homes become under-ventilated, leading to deteriorated IAQ, mold and health-related problems. This paper present results from a side-by-side testing of a CO2-based demand-controlled ERV versus a constant air flows ERV, using twin houses with simulated occupancies. The control strategy was based on the difference in CO2-concentration between exhaust/return air from the house and outdoor air. The implemented strategy based on a CO2 sensor network connected with an ERV continuously exhausting stale air from kitchen and bathrooms was simple and efficient in adjusting ventilation rate based on occupancy rate. The CO2-based demand-controlled ERV provided a much better control of indoor CO2 concentrations in the main floor and master bedroom, and with lower CO2 concentrations in bedrooms during night time, compared to the reference house with concentrations exceeding 2000 ppm. However, the CO2-based demand-controlled ERV had higher power consumption than conventional ERV with constant air flows.
Parameter Optimization of a Viral Dynamics Model in the Mucus Layer of the Human Nasal Cavity-Nasopharynx Based on Computational Fluid-Particle and Host-Cell Dynamics
Authors: Li Hanyu , Kuga Kazuki , Ito Kazuhide
Published: June 2023

Respiratory diseases, such as COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) caused by SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), have posed a threat to human health. For infection control and a better understanding of the pathogenesis, this study mainly focused on elucidating the virus dynamics in the mucus layer of the human nasal cavity-nasopharynx, using coupled computational fluid-particle dynamics (CFPD) and host-cell dynamics (HCD) analyses. To reproduce virus transportation in the mucus layer by mucociliary motion, a three-dimensional-shell model was created using the data obtained from computed tomography (CT) of the human upper airway. By considering the mucus milieu, the target-cell-limited model was coupled with the convection-diffusion term to develop the HCD model. Parameter optimization has been shown to have a great impact on the accuracy of model prediction; therefore, this study proposes a method that divides the geometric model into multiple regions and uses Monolix for nonlinear mixed effects modeling for pharmacometrics. The results showed that data from human inoculation challenge trials could be used to estimate the corresponding parameters. The models developed and used with optimized parameters can provide relatively accurate predictions of virus dynamics, which could contribute to the prevention and treatment of respiratory diseases.
Experimental investigation of VOC influence on cognitive function at low concentration in a full-fresh air environmental chamber
Authors: Wang Zukun , Pei Jingjing , Song Yijun , Liu Junjie
Published: June 2023

Indoor air quality (IAQ) influences individual physical and mental health. Laboratory studies conducted in environmental chambers have shown that IAQ parameters such as temperature, humidity, CO2, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) may impact participants’ productivity and cognitive performance. To better understand the influence of VOC at low concentration on cognitive function, this study applied a controlled environmental chamber with a full fresh air system at a high airflow rate (1443 m3/h in total). Toluene, a typical VOC commonly found in the Chinese domestic environment, was evaporated, and mixed with fresh air in the main supply air duct before being sent into the chamber. Neurocognitive tasks, and electroencephalogram (EEG) were used to evaluate the cognitive function of health participants under different toluene exposure levels. Results of environmental factors reflected the advantage of the high-airflow-rate full fresh air system in IAQ background factor control, which is essential for research aiming at the influence of indoor air pollutants at low concentrations. The experiment results indicated that a toluene exposure under the recommended level of the World Health Organization (WHO), 0.26 mg/m3, did not lead to discomfort or a significant decline in task performance but triggered changes in EEG power density patterns.
The study on influencing factors of airflow in laboratory fume hood
Authors: Yu-Jie Wu , Li-Hsin Cheng , Tzu-Ping Tseng
Published: June 2023

This study investigates the influence of the side wind flowing directly from different indoor environments on the airflow of the laboratory fume hood (LFH). When an LFH is used to discharge the harmful from the laboratory, the side wind can affect the airflow of the LFH, which is likely to cause the leakage of harmful fumes. In this study, incense was used to simulate harmful fumes, sampling and analysis of the total suspended particulate concentrations were performed in an LFH under different side wind conditions with or without air conditioning, operator, laboratory door open, and electric fan when the fume hood sash (FHS) is at the top, middle, and bottom positions, respectively. A laser pen and hot-wire anemometer are employed to demonstrate the airflow of the smoke and wind speed in different indoor environmental conditions. The experimental results reveal that the airflow field and distribution of harmful fumes in the LFH can be changed according to the different heights of the FHS and changes in the external airflow. Therefore, when using the LFH, the influence of the external airflow should be reduced, and the LFH should be operated for a few minutes before switching it off.
Numerical Thermal Comfort Analysis Using Combined Computer-Simulated Person with Clothing and Multi-Node Thermoregulation Model
Authors: Hyun-Gyu Park , Sung-Jun Yoo , Eisaku Sumiyoshi , Hiroshi Harashima , Ito Kazuhide
Published: June 2023

To analyse the interaction between the indoor environment and the human body, various computer-simulated persons (CSP) which can treat specific characteristics of the human body have been suggested as a “digital twin” for experimental thermal manikin. However, previous studies simplified or ignored the reproduction of the clothing function. In this study, a digital twin based on ANDI thermal manikin integrated with a multi-node thermoregulation model was developed in a naked and clothed state. In addition, to validate the prediction accuracy of numerical thermoregulatory analysis coupled with CSPCFD simulation, the analysis results were compared with the experimental results using thermal manikin. The computational model was generated based on 3D scan data of ANDI manikin and clothe. Moreover, the user subroutine program for coupled simulation of CSP and Fiala thermoregulation model was developed and applied into CSP to estimate the heat generation by metabolism, heat transfer between layers and parts, and skin surface temperature. CFD analysis was performed using CSP under identical environmental condition with the experiment, by setting CFD boundary conditions based on the data measured in the experiment. Through a series of numerical analyses, we confirmed that the analysis result of CSP corresponds well with experimental results using thermal manikin.
The effectiveness of potted plants in improving indoor air quality: A comparison between chamber and field studies
Authors: Tian Xuan , Wei Shen , Mavrogianni Anna , Yu Wei , Pan Lan
Published: June 2023

People spend up to 90% of their time inside buildings, making indoor air quality an extremely important factor affecting public health and building design. Due to the inherent ability to absorb/filter pollutants, plants present a promising method for improving indoor air quality. In recent decades, many studies have quantified plants’ effectiveness in removing indoor air pollutants using both chamber and field methods. This paper presents a review working covering these studies and discusses the differences between chamber and field studies, in terms of study methods and results. Through a meta-analysis of 41 chamber studies and 16 field studies, the effectiveness of 182 species in removing 25 pollutants has been estimated. From this work, a larger proportion of significant results were observed in chamber studies (88%), comparing to field studies (65%). Additionally, comparable studies revealed greater removal effectiveness of plants in chamber studies. These discrepancies could be attributed to many factors, such as the size and the airtightness of experimental setup, ventilation, gas exposure scheme, and environmental conditions. It is envisaged that these findings will help reduce the gap between chamber studies and field studies, and provide guidance for the future use of plants in buildings to improve indoor air quality.
Perceived dryness in houses and adverse health effects during winter in Japan
Authors: Tamura Jo , Hasegawa Kenichi , Kagi Naoki , Mitamura Teruaki , Matsumoto Shin-ichi , Takeuchi Jinya
Published: June 2023

In recent years, as houses have become more insulated and airtight, indoor environments in Japan have tended to become low-humidity in winter, making dryness a problem. The relationship between the perception of dryness indoors and low indoor humidity is unclear, though it has been suggested that other environmental factors may influence perception of dryness and adverse health effects. It is essential to clarify the association between the indoor environment and human responses related to the perception of dryness. A questionnaire survey regarding indoor thermal environment, air quality, living environment, resident characteristics, resident behaviour, and health-related symptoms was conducted throughout Japan in the winter of 2022. The paper first describes the findings of this survey on resident characteristics, building characteristics, indoor humidity sensation, operating patterns of humidifiers and other devices, and resident health problems related to indoor dryness. Next, multiple regression analysis was used to identify the factors influencing the impact of dryness on health problems at various sites.
Air quality investigation and research for various types of student-oriented indoor environments on a university campus
Authors: Tsai Jheng Fong , Lin Chi-Chi
Published: June 2023

This study investigated suspended particles (PM2.5 and PM10), formaldehyde, TVOC, ozone, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide in seven student-oriented indoor environments, which are inclusive of the library study room (A), computer classroom (B), teacher and student compound office (C), classroom-1 (D), classroom-2 (E), student cafeteria (F), and underground motorcycle parking lot (G) on a university campus. We monitored each indoor environment during the open hours for at least three weekdays. The averaged concentrations of CO2 in environments A, B, C, and D all exceeded the standard (1000 ppm) with values of 2,628±375, 1,908±613, 1,752±495, and 1,076±280 ppm. The corresponding minimum and maximum CO2 concentrations were 1,101 and 3,314, 836 and 3,272, 672 and 2,667, and 752 and 2,040 ppm, respectively. Sites A, B, C, D, F, and G are the environments where the concentrations of TVOC exceeded the standard (560 ppb) with the averaged values of 829±21, 920±192, 582±8, 607±15, 640±102 and 815±205 ppb, respectively. Both concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 in site F exceeded the standards (i.e., 35 μg/m3 and 75 μg/m3) with averaged values of 39±13 μg/m3 and 103±51 μg/m3, respectively. Three target compounds, CO, O3, and HCHO, were below their respective standards.
Improving Sri Lankan Buildings' Energy Efficiency Through Bioclimatic Classification and Potential Assessment
Authors: Diliban N. Pravin , Singh Manoj Kumar , Mahapatra Sadhan
Published: June 2023

As a result of lifestyle changes, the energy requirement for thermal comfort has increased. To increase energy efficiency and reduce global warming, building design should consider the climate. An energy-efficient building code has been developed with the goal of reducing energy demand by 25%–40%. However, the code cannot be used because different stakeholders have different perspectives. Climate zones, which are required for building structures that are both energy-efficient and climate-responsive, do not exist in the country. From 1989 to 2019, hourly weather data has been collected for district headquarters. This research focuses on the bioclimatic classification of Sri Lankan buildings and passive design methods. Degree days have been calculated for various base temperatures using Hitchin's, Erb's, Schoenau and Kehring's, ASHRAE, UKMO, and Hourly methods. The degree-day maps for Sri Lanka were created using ArcGIS. The bioclimatic classification for Sri Lanka was developed by combining climate and degree-day data. Sri Lanka is divided into three bioclimatic zones: cold, hot, and intermediate. The design potential of each bioclimatic zone was calculated using BcChart V2.0. Natural ventilation is an effective passive design technique for increasing indoor comfort. In the cold, hot, and intermediate zones, its potential is 72%, 62%, and 80%, respectively.
A Pilot Study on the Combined Multi-domain Impact of Indoor Air Quality and Noise on Office Productivity
Authors: Deng Zhipeng , Dong Bing , Guo Xin , Zhang Jianshun (Jensen)
Published: June 2023

As people spend 90% of their time indoors, it was necessary to improve indoor environmental quality to enhance human productivity. Indoor environmental quality consists of indoor air quality (IAQ), thermal, visual, and acoustic comfort. However, only a few studies have investigated the combined effects of IAQ and noise. During and after the COVID-19 pandemic, portable air cleaner is often used in buildings to reduce the concentration of particles in the air, but it also generates noise. The objective of this study is to determine the effects of a portable air cleaner on IAQ and noise level, and more importantly the resulting combined effects on office productivity. For this purpose, we conducted human subject tests in an office and each test lasted for 1.5h. For each case, the air temperature, relative humidity, and supply airflow rate were kept constant while the air cleaner was switched between on and off for various noise levels and IAQ. We recruited 7 participants and collected data on the concentration of CO2, particles, and TVOC every 5 minutes. We used wristbands to measure heart rate and skin electrodermal activity. And we used headbands to measure electroencephalogram (EEG) and facial activity. The questionnaire survey was used to learn the occupants’ responses to the indoor environment. To learn their productivity, occupants also did math addition tasks and typing tasks. We found that when using the portable air cleaner, the noise level raised from 55dB to around 70dB. The particle and TVOC concentrations were reduced by 90% and 20%, respectively. The questionnaire survey showed that the occupants felt unsatisfied due to noise. And the noise dissatisfaction exceeded the improved IAQ. By analyzing the EEG and the number of jaw clenches, the occupants felt more nervous and concentrated when the air cleaner was on. We confirmed the impact of noise and the combined impact of IAQ and noise on office productivity.
Perceived thermal acceptability and behavioural adjustment for Indonesian workers
Authors: Apriliyanthi Sri Rahma , Sakoi Tomonori , Diinal Aziiz Akhlish , Kubota Tetsu , Fajri Alfata Muhammad Nur , Suhendi Fefen , Koerniawan Mochammad Donny , Nakaya Takeshi
Published: June 2023

Behavioural adaptation is a fundamental factor in thermal comfort. Clothing insulation, opening windows, and integrating cooling systems within buildings are key to ensuring thermal comfort while conserving energy. This study collected behavioural adaptation data from 3000 Indonesian adults who regularly worked indoors. The results indicate that the thermal acceptability is in a similar range for all groups separated by residence space type despite the dominant thermal conditioning measure in each group is different. Based on ISO 9920, the typical clothing ensembles were determined for each group, and their clo-values were estimated. Office workers tended to wear more garments than factory workers, while at home, people wear light clothes. Therefore, the estimated clo-value in home are much lower compare to the workplaces clo-value. Clo-value in the workplaces with AC tends to show a higher value compared to naturally ventilated building. Clo-value for female is also higher than male. In general, AC usage in the office was higher than in factories and homes. Females tends to use more AC than Males. These differences reflect variety of socioeconomic and cultural aspects in public and private in Indonesia.
Development of Virtual Human Agents with Different Thermal Preferences for Energy and Thermal Comfort Simulation
Authors: Jeong Bonghoon , Kim Donghyun , Lee Joosang , Kim Taeyeon
Published: June 2023

Researchers have used building energy simulation tools such as EnergyPlus to evaluate building energy and occupant thermal preference. EnergyPlus is a powerful tool for modeling buildings, However, when controlling the indoor set temperature using EnergyPlus, it is common to assume that all occupants’ thermal preference is same. Therefore, it is difficult to know dynamic personal thermal preferences and to implement occupant centric set-point control. In this study, we propose the various human agents with different thermal preference to realize the reliability of the simulation. First, we make an agent generation algorithm by referring the characteristics of various existing individual thermal preference models. And then, create agents with a virtual thermal preference to suit our needs. Through that, it is expected to allow human agents to feel different preference in one space during simulation. The final significance of the study is to contribute to the evaluation of building energy and thermal comfort closer to reality through the agent created in this method.
Assessing the effect of a classroom IEQ on student satisfaction, engagement and performance
Authors: Carton Quinten , De Coninck Sarah , Kolarik Jakub , Breesch Hilde
Published: June 2023

Inappropriate indoor environmental quality (IEQ) conditions are shown to reduce occupants’ satisfaction, wellbeing and performance. Therefore, it is crucial to provide an excellent classroom IEQ in order to minimize learning loss among students. This study determines the effect of different thermal and indoor air quality (IAQ) conditions in a classroom on students’ satisfaction, study engagement and cognitive performance. Three data collection campaigns were performed in a university classroom. Data collection consisted of (1) continuous IEQ monitoring (i.e., temperature, relative humidity, CO2, …), (2) frequent assessments of students’ satisfaction with IEQ and study engagement via here-and-now surveys, and (3) evaluations of students’ memory and processing speed. The IEQ conditions were varied by adapting (1) a room temperature setpoint between 18°C to 26°C and (2) a CO2-setpoint between 500 ppm and 1000 ppm. A mixed-effects regression analysis on the collected data showed statistically significant relationships between students’ study engagement and the room temperature trend, air enthalpy, relative humidity and TVOC-concentrations in the classroom. The addition of data on students’ satisfaction with IEQ only improved a minority of model fits. A statistically significant difference in students’ memory was found between test conditions. However, a randomized experimental design is needed to determine the relationship between the classroom IEQ and students’ cognitive performance.
Simulation of roof retrofitting strategies to mitigate attic overheating issues of the terrace house under hot and humid climate
Authors: Yi Chong Jia , Zaki Sheikh Ahmad , Tuck Ng Wai , Rijal Homs Bahadur
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential mitigation strategies to overcome the overheating issue at the attic of the landed residential house located in a hot and humid climate area. An existing terrace house with 178 m2 was selected for this research. A building simulation model was created and calibrated by using the previous site measurement data collected by Ng et.al. in the year 2018. The calibrated model was subsequently used to evaluate various retrofitting methods and strategies, including roof insulation, and passive radiative cooling methods. The study shows that high albedo cool roof paint is the most effective roof retrofitting strategy compared to other approaches.