bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-Destructive Characterization of Italian Local Brassicaceae Cultivars Using ATR-FT-IR and Chemometrics
Authors: Di Martino Luciano , Biancolillo Alessandra , Scappaticci Claudia , Foschi Martina , D’Archivio Angelo Antonio
Published: February 2024

Brassicaceae is a family of vegetables found all over the world that has been attracting the attention of researchers due to its rich chemical composition and potential health benefits (antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, as well as antimutagenic activity and potential anticarcinogenic effects). In Italy, various Brassicaceae varieties are commercially available, including traditional local cultivars, which have unique features and genetic diversity. As a result, there is a growing need to protect and recognize these landraces to preserve biodiversity. In this study, non-destructive tools such as Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform-Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FT-IR) and chemometrics were employed to investigate eight distinct Brassicaceae landraces. The collected data were analyzed using a class modeling approach (Soft Independent Modeling of Class Analogy) and a discriminant classification method (Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis) to assess similarities and dissimilarities among the samples, all cultivated in an experimental field under the same pedoclimatic conditions. Remarkably, the combination of IR spectra and chemometric tools allowed accurate classification of the samples according only to their genetic background and despite their inclination to hybridization. The study highlights and demonstrates the importance and applicability of this specific non-destructive method for assisting the management and preservation of the genetic resources related to the local varieties of Brassicaceae.
Analysis of Urban Residents’ Travelling Characteristics and Hotspots Based on Taxi Trajectory Data
Authors: Du Jiusheng , Meng Chengyang , Liu Xingwang
Published: February 2024

This study utilizes taxi trajectory data to uncover urban residents’ travel patterns, offering critical insights into the spatial and temporal dynamics of urban mobility. A fusion clustering algorithm is introduced, enhancing the clustering accuracy of trajectory data. This approach integrates the hierarchical density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise (HDBSCAN) algorithm, modified to incorporate time factors, with kernel density analysis. The fusion algorithm demonstrates a higher noise point detection rate (15.85%) compared with the DBSCAN algorithm alone (7.31%), thus significantly reducing noise impact in kernel density analysis. Spatial correlation analysis between hotspot areas and paths uncovers distinct travel behaviors: During morning and afternoon peak hours on weekdays, travel times (19–40 min) exceed those on weekends (16–35 min). Morning peak hours see higher taxi utilization in residential and transportation hubs, with schools and commercial and government areas as primary destinations. Conversely, afternoon peaks show a trend towards dining and entertainment zones from the abovementioned places. In the evening rush, residents enjoy a vibrant nightlife, and there are numerous locations for picking up and dropping off people. A chi-square test on weekday travel data yields a p-value of 0.023, indicating a significant correlation between the distribution of travel hotspots and paths.
Recognition of Tunnel Fracture Zones in Seismic Waves and Ground-Penetrating Radar Data
Authors: Li Chuan , Wang Haichun , Wang Yunsheng , Wang Lulu , Yang Xi , Wan Xiaorong
Published: February 2024

Fracture zones in front of tunnel faces can easily cause falling blocks and landslides during the construction process. Using seismic waves and ground-penetrating radar (GPR) data, we extracted the features of fracture zones and achieved the advanced prediction of tunnel fracture zones. The energy variation in the reflected waves propagated by seismic waves at interfaces with different impedances of contact waves was found to manifest as positive and negative reflections, and the amplitude of reflected signals within the fracture zone areas thus increased. We designed a superimposed velocity spectrum, divided the areas of variation in wave velocity, and constructed the three-dimensional spatial distribution of the tunnel fracture zones. Based on the phase change, increase in amplitude, and increase in the center-frequency characteristics of the one-dimensional time waveform of the electromagnetic waves in the fault zone area (A-scan), we located the characteristic points of the fracture zones and observed the occurrence of in-phase axis misalignment in two-dimensional scanning (B-scan). We then implemented the identification of fracture zones. This method predicted the fractured area in the rock surrounding the Liangwangshan Tunnel, and during the tunnel excavation, the fracture zones appeared in the recognition area.
Physical and Numerical Models of Mechanically Stabilized Earth Walls Using Self-Fabricated Steel Reinforcement Grids Applied to Cohesive Soil in Vietnam
Authors: Chau Truong-Linh , Nguyen Thu-Ha , Pham Van-Ngoc
Published: February 2024

Mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls have been widely applied in construction to maintain the stability of high embankments. In Vietnam, imported reinforcement materials are expensive; thus, finding locally available materials for MSE walls is beneficial. This study examines the behavior of an MSE wall using local reinforcement materials in Danang, Vietnam. The MSE was reinforced by self-fabricated galvanized steel grids using CB300V steel with 3 cm ribs. The backfill soil was sandy clay soil from the local area with a low cohesion. A full-scale model with full instrumentation was installed to investigate the distribution of tensile forces along the reinforcement layers. The highest load that caused the wall to collapse due to internal instability (reinforcement rupture) was 302 kN/m2, which is 15 times greater than the design load of 20 kN/m2. The failure surface within the reinforced soil had a parabolic sliding shape that was similar to the theoretical studies. At the failure load level, the maximum lateral displacement at the top of the wall facing was small (3.9 mm), significantly lower than the allowable displacement for a retaining wall. Furthermore, a numerical model using FLAC software 7.0 was applied to simulate the performance of the MSE wall. The modeling results were in good agreement with the physical model. Thus, self-fabricated galvanized steel grids could confidently be used in combination with the local backfill soil for MSE walls.
The Effects of Bee Additives on the Physico-Chemical and Antioxidant Properties of Rapeseed Honey
Authors: Derewiaka Dorota , Majewska Ewa , Pruszkowska Paulina
Published: February 2024

The aim of this paper was to conduct a comparative analysis of rapeseed honeys enriched with various bee products: propolis (1%), bee bread (2%), and bee pollen (5%). The parameters examined included water content, electrical conductivity, pH, free acid content, brown pigment content, color analysis, total polyphenol content, sugar content, and antioxidant activity using the DPPH method. The results demonstrated compliance with Polish requirements for commercial honey quality, with one exception: honey containing 1% propolis, which had a water content of 21.15%. The analysis results indicated that the tested bee products exhibited strong antioxidant properties, with rapeseed honey enriched with 5% bee pollen showing the highest antioxidant activity and content.
Dual Hybrid Attention Mechanism-Based U-Net for Building Segmentation in Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Lei Jingxiong , Liu Xuzhi , Yang Haolang , Zeng Zeyu , Feng Jun
Published: February 2024

High-resolution remote sensing images (HRRSI) have important theoretical and practical value in urban planning. However, current segmentation methods often struggle with issues like blurred edges and loss of detailed information due to the intricate backgrounds and rich semantics in high-resolution remote sensing images. To tackle these challenges, this paper proposes an end-to-end attention-based Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) called Double Hybrid Attention U-Net (DHAU-Net). We designed a new Double Hybrid Attention structure consisting of dual-parallel hybrid attention modules to replace the skip connections in U-Net, which can eliminate redundant information interference and enhances the collection and utilization of important shallow features. Comprehensive experiments on the Massachusetts remote sensing building dataset and the Inria aerial image labeling dataset demonstrate that our proposed method achieves effective pixel-level building segmentation in urban remote sensing images by eliminating redundant information interference and making full use of shallow features, and improves the segmentation performance without significant time costs (approximately 15%). The evaluation metrics reveal significant results, with an accuracy rate of 0.9808, precision reaching 0.9300, an F1 score of 0.9112, a mean intersection over union (mIoU) of 0.9088, and a recall rate of 0.8932.
Simulation of Draught Reduction Performance of Subsoiling with Upcutting Belt Motion Using Discrete Element Method
Authors: Gao Peng , Li Jinguang , Qi Hongyan , Liu Xuanting , Ma Yunhai
Published: February 2024

Conventional subsoiling has the problem of excessive draught resistance, which has long been a major concern. A great reduction in draught is urgently required to make better use of the subsoiling technique with many agronomic benefits. In this study, an attempt was made to test the draught reduction performance of a series of tools with continuous belt motions. Comparative simulations between regular tools and belt tools were carried out using the discrete element method (DEM) to investigate the effects of belt motion on tool force, soil disturbance characteristics, particle velocity distribution, and soil deformation and movement patterns. The results indicated that the belt motion reduced the draught force by 13.18%, 25.21%, 37.98%, and 44.64% for the rake angles of 30°, 45°, 60°, and 75°, respectively, and caused acceptable increases in downward vertical force. The changes in soil disturbance, particle velocity distribution, and soil deformation and movement patterns contributed to the reduction in draught force. Negative effects on soil disturbance were acceptable considering the 13.18% to 44.64% reductions in draught force. The present study suggests that the belt motion has a great application potential for draught reduction in subsoiling. Also, this can serve as a theoretical foundation for future studies.
Integrated Deep Ultraviolet Doublet Metalens for Projection Imaging
Authors: Shi Xiaoyan , Yang Fuming , Hou Enzhu , Liang Zhongzhu
Published: February 2024

Metalenses, with their unique modulation of light, are in great demand for many potential applications. As a proof-of-principle demonstration, we focus on designing SiO2 metalenses that operate in the deep ultraviolet region, specifically around 193 nm. Based on the deep ultraviolet metalens proposed in this paper, an integrated deep ultraviolet doublet metalens is further offered. When the incident light is a plane wave with a wavelength of 193 nm, the integrated doublet metalens can reduce the beam size by a factor of 4:1, and the emitted light is flat. The integrated doublet metalens can project the reticle image proportionally, making the projection image clear. The integrated doublet metalens has the best imaging effect at the propagation distance of 2 μm and can tolerate ±3 degrees of incident angle deviation. Our findings establish general and systematic strategies to guide the design of traditional optical lens arrays with excellent integrated doublet metalenses and pave the way for enhanced optical performance in the application of large-relative-aperture deep ultraviolet detection, deep ultraviolet microscope systems, laser beam combining systems, deep ultraviolet lithography systems, etc.
Development and Evaluation of a Short-Term Ensemble Forecasting Model on Sea Surface Wind and Waves across the Bohai and Yellow Sea
Authors: Zang Tonghui , Zou Jing , Li Yunzhou , Qiu Zhijin , Wang Bo , Cui Chaoran , Li Zhiqian , Hu Tong , Guo Yanping
Published: February 2024

In this study, an ensemble forecasting model for in situ wind speed and wave height was developed using the Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere–Wave–Sediment Transport (COAWST) model. This model utilized four bias correction algorithms—Model Output Statistics (MOS), Back Propagation Neural Network (BPNN), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural network, and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)—to construct ensemble forecasts. The training data were derived from the COAWST simulations of one year and observations from three buoy stations (Laohutan, Zhifudao, and Lianyungang) in the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea. After the optimization of the bias correction model training, the subsequent evaluations on the ensemble forecasts showed that the in situ forecasting accuracy of wind speed and wave height was significantly improved. Although there were some uncertainties on bias correction performance levels for individual algorithms, the uncertainties were greatly reduced by the ensemble forecasts. Depending on the dynamic weight assignment, the ensemble forecasts presented a stable performance even when the corrected forecasts by three algorithms had an obvious negative bias. Specifically, the ensemble forecasting bias was found with a mean reduction of about 96%~99% and 91%~95% for wind speed and wave height, and a reduction of about 91%~98% and 16%~54% during the period of Typhoon “Muifa”. For the four correction algorithms, the performance of bias correction was not directly related to the algorithm complexity. However, the strategies with more complex algorithms (i.e., CNN) were more conservative, and simple algorithms (i.e., MOS) might have induced unstable performance levels despite their lower bias in some cases.
The WRF-CMAQ Simulation of a Complex Pollution Episode with High-Level O3 and PM2.5 over the North China Plain: Pollution Characteristics and Causes
Authors: Dou Xuedan , Yu Shaocai , Li Jiali , Sun Yuhai , Song Zhe , Yao Ningning , Li Pengfei
Published: February 2024

The problem of atmospheric complex pollution led by PM2.5 and O3 has become an important factor restricting the improvement of air quality in China. In drawing on observations and Weather Research and Forecasting-Community Multiscale Air Quality (WRF-CMAQ) model simulations, this study analyzed the characteristics and causes of a regional PM2.5-O3 complex pollution episode in North China Plain, in the period from 3 to 5 April 2019. The results showed that in static and stable weather conditions with high temperature and low wind speed, despite photochemical reactions of O3 near the ground being weakened by high PM2.5 concentrations, a large amount of O3 generated through gas-phase chemical reactions at high altitudes was transported downwards and increased the O3 concentrations at the ground level. The high ground-level O3 could facilitate both the conversion of SO2 and NO2 into secondary inorganic salts and volatile organic compounds into secondary organic aerosols, thereby amplifying PM2.5 concentrations and exacerbating air pollution. The contributions of transport from outside sources to PM2.5 (above 60%) and O3 (above 46%) increased significantly during the episode. This study will play an instrumental role in helping researchers to comprehend the factors that contribute to complex pollution in China, and also offers valuable references for air pollution management.
Parametric Expansions of an Algebraic Variety Near Its Singularities II
Authors: Bruno Alexander D. , Azimov Alijon A.
Published: February 2024

The paper is a continuation and completion of the paper Bruno, A.D.; Azimov, A.A. Parametric Expansions of an Algebraic Variety Near Its Singularities. Axioms 2023, 5, 469, where we calculated parametric expansions of the three-dimensional algebraic manifold Ω, which appeared in theoretical physics, near its 3 singular points and near its one line of singular points. For that we used algorithms of Nonlinear Analysis: extraction of truncated polynomials, using the Newton polyhedron, their power transformations and Formal Generalized Implicit Function Theorem. Here we calculate parametric expansions of the manifold Ω near its one more singular point, near two curves of singular points and near infinity. Here we use 3 new things: (1) computation in algebraic extension of the field of rational numbers, (2) expansions near a curve of singular points and (3) calculation of branches near infinity.
Phenotypic Heterogeneity, Bidirectionality, Universal Cues, Plasticity, Mechanics, and the Tumor Microenvironment Drive Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Mierke Claudia Tanja
Published: February 2024

Tumor diseases become a huge problem when they embark on a path that advances to malignancy, such as the process of metastasis. Cancer metastasis has been thoroughly investigated from a biological perspective in the past, whereas it has still been less explored from a physical perspective. Until now, the intraluminal pathway of cancer metastasis has received the most attention, while the interaction of cancer cells with macrophages has received little attention. Apart from the biochemical characteristics, tumor treatments also rely on the tumor microenvironment, which is recognized to be immunosuppressive and, as has recently been found, mechanically stimulates cancer cells and thus alters their functions. The review article highlights the interaction of cancer cells with other cells in the vascular metastatic route and discusses the impact of this intercellular interplay on the mechanical characteristics and subsequently on the functionality of cancer cells. For instance, macrophages can guide cancer cells on their intravascular route of cancer metastasis, whereby they can help to circumvent the adverse conditions within blood or lymphatic vessels. Macrophages induce microchannel tunneling that can possibly avoid mechanical forces during extra- and intravasation and reduce the forces within the vascular lumen due to vascular flow. The review article highlights the vascular route of cancer metastasis and discusses the key players in this traditional route. Moreover, the effects of flows during the process of metastasis are presented, and the effects of the microenvironment, such as mechanical influences, are characterized. Finally, the increased knowledge of cancer metastasis opens up new perspectives for cancer treatment.
A Set of Possible Markers for Monitoring Heart Failure and Cognitive Impairment Associated: A Review of Literature from the Past 5 Years
Authors: Pagano Maria , Corallo Francesco , D’Aleo Piercataldo , Duca Antonio , Bramanti Placido , Bramanti Alessia , Cappadona Irene
Published: February 2024

Background: Heart failure is an epidemiologically relevant disease because of the aging population and widespread lifestyles that promote it. In addition to the acute event, it is possible for the disease to become chronic with periodic flare-ups. It is essential to study pathology from a diagnostic and prognostic point of view and to identify parameters for effective monitoring. In addition, heart failure is associated with multiple comorbidities, including cognitive impairment, which is monitored clinically but not through specific biomarkers in these patients. The purpose of this review is to gather the most recent scientific evidence on a few possible biomarkers previously identified for monitoring heart failure and associated cognitive impairment. Methods: We surveyed studies inherent to a set of previously identified markers, evaluating English-language articles from the past five years conducted in adult heart failure patient populations. We used the databases PubMed, Web of Sciences, and Cochrane Library for search studies, and we considered articles published in journals with an impact factor greater than five in the publication year. Results: Among the biomarkers evaluated, a concordant indication for serial measurements for heart failure monitoring emerged only for interleukin-6. For the other markers, there is still little evidence available, which is interesting but sometimes conflicting. Interesting studies have also emerged for biomarkers of cognitive decline assessed in patients with heart failure, confirming the hypotheses of the increasingly studied heart-brain correlation. Conclusion: Certainly, further studies in large populations are needed to identify effective biomarkers for monitoring heart failure and associated cognitive impairment.
Biomarkers of Oxidative and Radical Stress
Authors: Chatgilialoglu Chryssostomos
Published: February 2024

Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) are generated as a result of normal intracellular metabolism [...]
Prediabetes and Cardiometabolic Risk: The Need for Improved Diagnostic Strategies and Treatment to Prevent Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Lizarzaburu-Robles Juan Carlos , Herman William H. , Garro-Mendiola Alonso , Galdón Sanz-Pastor Alba , Lorenzo Oscar
Published: February 2024

The progression from prediabetes to type-2 diabetes depends on multiple pathophysiological, clinical, and epidemiological factors that generally overlap. Both insulin resistance and decreased insulin secretion are considered to be the main causes. The diagnosis and approach to the prediabetic patient are heterogeneous. There is no agreement on the diagnostic criteria to identify prediabetic subjects or the approach to those with insufficient responses to treatment, with respect to regression to normal glycemic values or the prevention of complications. The stratification of prediabetic patients, considering the indicators of impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, or HbA1c, can help to identify the sub-phenotypes of subjects at risk for T2DM. However, considering other associated risk factors, such as impaired lipid profiles, or risk scores, such as the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score, may improve classification. Nevertheless, we still do not have enough information regarding cardiovascular risk reduction. The sub-phenotyping of subjects with prediabetes may provide an opportunity to improve the screening and management of cardiometabolic risk in subjects with prediabetes.
Altered Expression of Intestinal Tight Junctions in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Pathogenetic Mechanism of Intestinal Hyperpermeability
Authors: Georgopoulou Georgia-Andriana , Papasotiriou Marios , Bosgana Pinelopi , de Lastic Anne-Lise , Koufou Eleni-Evangelia , Papachristou Evangelos , Goumenos Dimitrios S. , Davlouros Periklis , Kourea Eleni , Zolota Vasiliki , Thomopoulos Konstantinos , Mouzaki Athanasia , Assimakopoulos Stelios F.
Published: February 2024

Background: Systemic inflammation in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated (as a cause or effect) with intestinal barrier dysfunction and increased gut permeability, with mechanisms not yet fully understood. This study investigated different parameters of the intestinal barrier in CKD patients, especially tight junction (TJ) proteins and their possible association with systemic endotoxemia and inflammation. Methods: Thirty-three patients with stage I–IV CKD (n = 17) or end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) (n = 16) and 11 healthy controls underwent duodenal biopsy. Samples were examined histologically, the presence of CD3+ T-lymphocytes and the expression of occludin and claudin-1 in the intestinal epithelium was evaluated by means of immunohistochemistry, circulating endotoxin concentrations were determined by means of ELISA and the concentrations of the cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and TNF-α in serum were measured using flow cytometry. Results: Patients with stage I–IV CKD or ESKD had significantly higher serum endotoxin, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-10 levels compared to controls. Intestinal occludin and claudin-1 were significantly decreased, and their expression was inversely correlated with systemic endotoxemia. Regarding occludin, a specific expression pattern was observed, with a gradually increasing loss of its expression from the crypt to the tip of the villi. Conclusion: The expression of occludin and claudin-1 in enterocytes is significantly reduced in patients with CKD, contributing to systemic endotoxemia and inflammatory responses in these patients.
Cognitive Inflexibility Predicts Negative Symptoms Severity in Patients with First-Episode Psychosis: A 1-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Mantonakis Leonidas , Stefanatou Pentagiotissa , Tsionis Antonis , Konstantakopoulos George , Xenaki Lida-Alkisti , Ntigrintaki Angeliki-Aikaterini , Ralli Irene , Dimitrakopoulos Stefanos , Kollias Konstantinos , Stefanis Nikos C.
Published: February 2024

Negative symptoms and cognitive deficits play a major role in psychosis and significantly influence the functional outcomes of patients, particularly those with a first episode of psychosis (FEP). However, limited research has explored the predictive capacity of cognitive deficits during FEP for subsequent negative symptomatology. Drawing from the Athens FEP research study, we conducted a retrospective longitudinal study in 80 individuals with FEP. All patients were drug naive at admission. Cognitive tests were administered at 1-month and 1-year post-admission, while negative symptomatology was assessed at the same time points using PANSS by trained raters. We considered confounding factors such as age, gender, duration of untreated psychosis (DUP), treatment received, premorbid social adjustment, and premorbid IQ. Univariate regression analysis identified cognitive domains that correlated with negative symptomatology. These, along with the confounders, were incorporated into a multiple regression, with the 1-year PANSS negative scale serving as the dependent variable. Employing the backward elimination technique, we found a statistically significant inverse relationship between the categories completed in the Wisconsin card sorting test (WCST) and the 1-year PANNS negative scale (p = 0.01), beyond the associations with DUP and the 1-month PANSS negative scale. Our results suggest that cognitive flexibility, a key component of executive functions, predicts negative symptom severity one year after FEP.
Trends and Challenges in the Mental Health of University Students with Disabilities: A Systematic Review
Authors: Solís García Patricia , Real Castelao Sara , Barreiro-Collazo Alejandra
Published: February 2024

This systematic review examines mental health in university students with disabilities, focusing on increasing prevalence and associated challenges. Following the PRISMA protocol for study selection and analysis, it aims to analyze problem prevalence and risk factors, explore support strategies and available resources, and identify gaps and areas for improvement in care and access to mental health services for disabled university students. This review includes 16 articles that met the established criteria. The findings reveal higher mental health issue prevalence in these students compared to non-disabled peers, highlighting the need for specific, tailored interventions. Improvement areas in general inclusion measures to prevent high-risk situations and intervention responses to discomfort and existing mental health problems are discussed. The importance of a holistic approach to ensure their overall well-being and academic success in an inclusive educational environment is emphasized.
Refined Analysis of Spatial Three-Curved Steel Box Girder Bridge and Temperature Stress Prediction Based on WOA-BPNN
Authors: Hu Wei , Zhang Zhongyong , Shi Junwei , Chen Yulun , Li Yixuan , Feng Qian
Published: February 2024

Bridges often improve the visual appeal of urban landscapes by incorporating curve elements to create iconic forms. However, it is noteworthy that curved bridges have unique mechanical properties under loads compared to straight bridges. This study analyzes a spatial three-curved steel box girder bridge based on an actual engineering case with a complex configuration. Initially, the finite element software Midas/Civil 2021 is utilized to establish a beam element model and a plate element model to examine the structural responses under dead loads in detail. Then, two different temperature gradient distribution models are employed for the temperature effect analysis. The backpropagation neural network (BPNN) optimized by the WOA algorithm is trained as a surrogate model for finite element models based on the results of temperature stress simulation. The results reveal that the bending–torsion coupling effect in the second span of the spatial three-curved steel box girder bridge is pronounced, with the maximum torque reaching 40% of the bending moment. The uneven distribution of cross-section stress is particularly significant at the vertices, where the shear lag coefficient exceeds 3. Under the action of temperature gradients, the bridge displays a warped stress state; the stress results obtained from the exponential model exhibit a 21% increase compared to BS-5400. Optimization of the weights by the WOA algorithm results in a significant improvement in prediction accuracy, and the convergence speed is improved by 30%. The coefficient of determination (R2) for predicting temperature stress can reach as high as 0.99.
Integrated Systems of Light Pipes in Buildings: A State-of-the-Art Review
Authors: Wu Yanpeng , Jin Meitong , Liu Mingxi , Li Shaoxiong
Published: February 2024

Artificial lighting comprises nearly one-third of the total electrical load of buildings, resulting in significant carbon emissions. Reducing the carbon emissions caused by artificial lighting is one of the ways to achieve low-carbon buildings. To meet the demand for high-efficiency, energy-saving, and comfortable lighting, light pipes are increasingly used in buildings. This paper reviews the research and development of light pipes and integrated technology. Sky conditions as a dynamic factor always affect the performance of light pipes. The combination of light pipes and an artificial lighting system can effectively solve this problem. A light pipe can be integrated with a ventilation stack to achieve the ventilation and cooling or heating of a building. A lighting-heating coupled light guide can improve the energy efficiency and sustainability in buildings, such as where antimony tin oxide nanofluid is introduced to absorb additional heat and then provide domestic hot water. The application of a photocatalyst to light pipes can realize air purification and self-cleaning. The use of light pipes does not consume electricity and can reduce the time spent using artificial lighting, thus allowing for power savings. From a whole life cycle perspective, the use of light pipes can be a balance of cost and benefit. In conclusion, such information could be useful for engineers, researchers, and designers to assess the suitability of applying integrated light pipes in different building types and examine the potential of energy and cost savings.
Automated Prefabricated Slab Splitting Design Using a Multipopulation Coevolutionary Algorithm and BIM
Authors: Xu Chengran , Zheng Xiaolei , Wu Zhou , Zhang Chao
Published: February 2024

The prefabricated composite slab (PCS) is an essential horizontal component in a building, which is made of a precast part and a cast-in-place concrete layer. In practice, the floor should be split into many small PCSs for the convenience of manufacturing and installation. Currently, the splitting design of PCS mostly relies on sound knowledge and valuable experience of construction. While rule-based parametric design tools using building information modeling (BIM) can facilitate PCS splitting, the generated solution is suboptimal and limited. This paper presents an intelligent BIM-based framework to automatically complete the splitting design of PCSs. A collaborative optimization model is formulated to minimize the composite costs of manufacturing and installation. Individuals with similar area information are grouped into a subpopulation, and the optimization objective is to minimize the specifications and quantities of PCSs. Through the correlation information within the subpopulation and the shared information among each other, the variable correlation is eliminated to accomplish the task of collaborative optimization. The multipopulation coevolution particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is implemented for the collaborative optimization model to determine the sizes and positions of all PCSs. The proposed framework is applied in the optimized splitting design of PCSs in a standard floor to demonstrate its practicability and efficiency.
Experimental Study on Dynamic Modulus of High Content Rubber Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Zheng Guozhi , Zhang Naitian , Lv Songtao
Published: February 2024

Currently, the research on the mechanical properties of rubber-modified asphalt mixtures primarily focuses on small-scale investigations, with insufficient exploration into the performance of rubber particles and their relationship with the mechanism and properties of modified asphalt mixtures. Limited studies have been conducted on large-scale rubber modification in asphalt mixtures. Due to frequent use and subsequent high damage to existing asphalt pavements, incorporating rubber-modified asphalt mixtures can partially alleviate premature deterioration. Dynamic modulus tests were conducted using MTS equipment under unconfined conditions to investigate the viscoelastic behavior of rubber-modified asphalt mixtures with high rubber content and elucidate the influence of rubber particle content on the elastic deformation and recovery capability. The dynamic mechanical properties of the mixtures were determined at different loading rates, temperatures, and types of rubber-modified asphalt mixtures. Based on the test data, variations in the dynamic modulus, phase angle, storage modulus, loss modulus, loss factor, and rut factor of the rubber-modified asphalt mixtures under different loading frequencies, temperatures, and types were analyzed. The results demonstrate the pronounced viscoelastic behavior of rubber-modified asphalt mixtures. The mixtures exhibit enhanced elasticity at low temperatures and high frequencies, while their viscosity becomes more prominent at high temperatures and low frequencies. Under constant test temperatures, an increase in load loading frequency leads to a higher dynamic modulus; conversely, a decrease in dynamic modulus is observed with increasing test temperatures. The dynamic modulus of ARHM-25 at a frequency of 10 Hz is found to be 12.99 times higher at 15 °C compared to that at 60 °C, while at 30 °C, the dynamic modulus at 25 Hz is observed to be 2.72 times greater than that at 0.1 Hz. Furthermore, the rutting resistance factors of the asphalt mixtures increase with loading frequency but decrease with temperature. The rutting factor for ARHM-13 at a frequency of 10 Hz is found to be 22.98 times higher at 15 °C compared to that at 60 °C, while at a temperature of 30 °C, the rutting factor for this material is observed to be 3.09 times greater at a frequency of 25 Hz than at 0.1 Hz. These findings suggest that rutting is most likely when vehicles drive at low speeds in hot weather conditions.
Parameter Optimization of Friction Pendulum Bearings Based on the Adaptive Genetic Algorithm Considering the Overall Evolutionary Status
Authors: Yin Guanghua , Ma Minglei , Jia Peng , Ma Xinxu
Published: February 2024

Improper design of friction pendulum bearings can lead to poor seismic reduction performance and may result in the failure of local vulnerable components. And the parameter design of friction pendulum bearings mainly relies on experience and verification calculations at present. This paper proposes an adaptive genetic algorithm considering the overall evolution state of the population, adjusting crossover and mutation probabilities adaptively based on individual fitness and population diversity. Compared to traditional algorithms, it exhibits better global search capabilities and convergence efficiency. Combining the improved genetic algorithm with finite element models, a parameter optimization method is proposed. The parameters of friction pendulum bearings are optimized. In response to the situation in this paper, the optimal friction coefficient of the friction pendulum bearing is determined to be 0.01 and the optimal equivalent radius is 3.3 m. This can provide a reference for the design of seismic isolation devices.
Chemical Looping Technology for Energy Storage and Carbon Emissions Reductions
Authors: Huang Chuande
Published: February 2024

Chemical looping (CL) technology, initially developed as an advanced combustion method, has been widely applied in various processes, including the selective oxidation of hydrocarbons (e [...]
Molybdenum-Catalyzed Enantioselective Ring-Closing Metathesis/Kinetic Resolution of Racemic Planar-Chiral 1,1′-Diallylferrocenes
Authors: Imazu Haruna , Masaoka Kakeru , Uike Saki , Ogasawara Masamichi
Published: February 2024

The molybdenum-catalyzed enantioselective ring-closing metathesis/kinetic resolution of a series of racemic planar-chiral 1,1′-diallylferrocene derivatives was reinvestigated utilizing the method of generating catalytically active chiral molybdenum-alkylidene species in situ, which allowed us to examine a variety of chiral molybdenum-alkylidene metathesis precatalysts in the present asymmetric reaction. With the catalyst screening experiments conducted in this study, the more practical reaction conditions, including a choice of a proper chiral molybdenum precatalyst, giving planar-chiral ferrocenes of higher enantiomeric purity and better chemoselectivity could be optimized.
Imeglimin Exhibits Novel Anti-Inflammatory Effects on High-Glucose-Stimulated Mouse Microglia through ULK1-Mediated Suppression of the TXNIP–NLRP3 Axis
Authors: Kato Hisashi , Iwashita Kaori , Iwasa Masayo , Kato Sayaka , Yamakage Hajime , Suganami Takayoshi , Tanaka Masashi , Satoh-Asahara Noriko
Published: February 2024

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an epidemiological risk factor for dementia and has been implicated in multifactorial pathologies, including neuroinflammation. In the present study, we aimed to elucidate the potential anti-inflammatory effects of imeglimin, a novel antidiabetic agent, on high-glucose (HG)-stimulated microglia. Mouse microglial BV2 cells were stimulated with HG in the presence or absence of imeglimin. We examined the effects of imeglimin on the levels of proinflammatory cytokines, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial integrity, and components related to the inflammasome or autophagy pathways in these cells. Our results showed that imeglimin suppressed the HG-induced production of interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) by reducing the intracellular ROS levels, ameliorating mitochondrial dysfunction, and inhibiting the activation of the thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP)–NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) axis. Moreover, the inhibitory effects of imeglimin on the TXNIP–NLRP3 axis depended on the imeglimin-induced activation of ULK1, which also exhibited novel anti-inflammatory effects without autophagy induction. These findings suggest that imeglimin exerted novel suppressive effects on HG-stimulated microglia through the ULK1–TXNIP–NLRP3 axis, and may, thereby, contribute to the development of innovative strategies to prevent T2DM-associated cognitive impairment.
Green-Synthesized Silver and Selenium Nanoparticles Using Berberine: A Comparative Assessment of In Vitro Anticancer Potential on Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Line (HepG2)
Authors: Khaled Azza M. , Othman Mohamed S. , Obeidat Sofian T. , Aleid Ghada M. , Aboelnaga Shimaa M. , Fehaid Alaa , Hathout Heba M. R. , Bakkar Ashraf A. , Moneim Ahmed E. Abdel , El-Garawani Islam M. , Morsi Dalia S.
Published: February 2024

A well-known natural ingredient found in several medicinal plants, berberine (Ber), has been shown to have anticancer properties against a range of malignancies. The limited solubility and bioavailability of berberine can be addressed using Ber-loaded nanoparticles. In this study, we compared the in vitro cytotoxic effects of both Ber-loaded silver nanoparticles (Ber-AgNPs) and Ber-loaded selenium nanoparticles (Ber-SeNPs) in the human liver cancer cell line (HepG2) and mouse normal liver cells (BNL). The IC50 values in HepG2 for berberine, Ber-AgNPs, Ber-SeNPs, and cisplatin were 26.69, 1.16, 0.04, and 0.33 µg/mL, respectively. Our results show that Ber and its Ag and Se nanoparticles exerted a good antitumor effect against HepG2 cells by inducing apoptosis via upregulating p53, Bax, cytosolic cytochrome C levels, and caspase-3 activity, and the down-regulation of Bcl-2 levels. Similarly, incubation with Ber and both Ber-NPs (Ag and Se) led to a significant dose-dependent elevation in inflammatory markers’ (TNF-α, NF-κB, and COX-2) levels compared to the control group. In addition, it led to the arrest of the G1 cell cycle by depleting the expression of cyclin D1 and CDK-2 mRNA. Furthermore, Ber and both Ber-NPs (Ag and Se) caused a significant dose-dependent increase in LDH activity in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, our findings offer evidence that Ber and its nanoparticles intensified oxidative stress in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, the migration rate of cells subjected to berberine and its nanoforms was notably decreased compared to that of control cells. It can be inferred that Ber nanoparticles exhibited superior anticancer efficacy against HepG2 compared to unprocessed Ber, perhaps due to their improved solubility and bioavailability. Furthermore, Ber-SeNPs exhibited greater efficacy than Ber-AgNPs, possibly as a result of the inherent anticancer characteristics of selenium.
Considering Caenorhabditis elegans Aging on a Temporal and Tissue Scale: The Case of Insulin/IGF-1 Signaling
Authors: Fabrizio Paola , Alcolei Allan , Solari Florence
Published: February 2024

The aging process is inherently complex, involving multiple mechanisms that interact at different biological scales. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is a simple model organism that has played a pivotal role in aging research following the discovery of mutations extending lifespan. Longevity pathways identified in C. elegans were subsequently found to be conserved and regulate lifespan in multiple species. These pathways intersect with fundamental hallmarks of aging that include nutrient sensing, epigenetic alterations, proteostasis loss, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Here we summarize recent data obtained in C. elegans highlighting the importance of studying aging at both the tissue and temporal scale. We then focus on the neuromuscular system to illustrate the kinetics of changes that take place with age. We describe recently developed tools that enabled the dissection of the contribution of the insulin/IGF-1 receptor ortholog DAF-2 to the regulation of worm mobility in specific tissues and at different ages. We also discuss guidelines and potential pitfalls in the use of these new tools. We further highlight the opportunities that they present, especially when combined with recent transcriptomic data, to address and resolve the inherent complexity of aging. Understanding how different aging processes interact within and between tissues at different life stages could ultimately suggest potential intervention points for age-related diseases.
Low-Cost Carbon Paste Cu(II)-Exchanged Zeolite Amperometric Sensor for Hydrogen Peroxide Detection
Authors: Gligor Delia , Maicaneanu Sanda Andrada , Varodi Codruta
Published: February 2024

The aim of this work was to explore the possibility of using a Cu-exchanged zeolitic volcanic tuff (which is natural and easy to prepare and apply) for the preparation of a new low-cost carbon paste amperometric sensor for H2O2 detection. The properties of the zeolitic volcanic tuff were determined using chemical analysis, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, the specific surface area, electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The sensor was successfully built and operates at pH 7, at an applied potential of −150 mV Ag/AgCl/KClsat, presenting a sensitivity of 0.87 mA M−1, a detection limit of 10 µM and a linear domain up to 30 mM H2O2. These good electroanalytic parameters for H2O2 detection (a low detection limit and high sensitivity) support the possibility of using these sensors for the detection of many analytes in environmental, food and medical applications.
Recent Advances in the Application of Metal Oxide Nanomaterials for the Conservation of Stone Artefacts, Ecotoxicological Impact and Preventive Measures
Authors: Ben Chobba Marwa , Weththimuni Maduka , Messaoud Mouna , Urzi Clara , Licchelli Maurizio
Published: February 2024

Due to the ongoing threat of degradation of artefacts and monuments, the conservation of cultural heritage items has been gaining prominence on the global scale. Thus, finding suitable approaches that can preserve these materials while keeping their natural aspect of is crucial. In particular, preventive conservation is an approach that aims to control deterioration before it happens in order to decrease the need for the intervention. Several techniques have been developed in this context. Notably, the application of coatings made of metal oxide nanomaterials dispersed in polymer matrix can be effectively address stone heritage deterioration issues. In particular, metal oxide nanomaterials (TiO2, ZnO, CuO, and MgO) with self-cleaning and antimicrobial activity have been considered as possible cultural heritage conservative materials. Metal oxide nanomaterials have been used to strengthen heritage items in several studies. This review seeks to update the knowledge of different kinds of metal oxide nanomaterials, especially nanoparticles and nanocomposites, that have been employed in the preservation and consolidation of heritage items over the last 10 years. Notably, the transport of nanomaterials in diverse environments is undoubtedly not well understood. Therefore, controlling their effects on various neighbouring non-target organisms and ecological processes is crucial.
Energetic and Entropic Motifs in Vesicle Morphogenesis in Amphiphilic Diblock Copolymer Solutions
Authors: Liu Senyuan , Sureshkumar Radhakrishna
Published: February 2024

Coarse-grained molecular dynamic simulations are employed to investigate the spatiotemporal evolution of vesicles (polymersomes) via self-assembly of randomly distributed amphiphilic diblock copolymers PB-PEO (Poly(Butadiene)-b-Poly(Ethylene Oxide)) in water. The vesiculation pathway consists of several intermediate structures, such as spherical/rodlike aggregates, wormlike micelles, lamellae, and cavities. The lamella-to-vesicle transition occurs at a constant aggregation number and is accompanied by a reduction in the solvent-accessible surface area. Simulation predictions are in qualitative agreement with the mechanism of vesicle formation in which the unfavorable hydrophobic interactions between water molecules and polymer segments, along the edge of the lamella, are eliminated at the expense of gaining curvature energy. However, rod–lamella–vesicle transition is accompanied by an increase in copolymer packing density. Hence, the change in the surface area accompanying vesiculation predicted by the simulations is significantly lower than theoretical estimates. Changes in information entropy, quantified by the expectation of the logarithm of the probability distribution function of the segmental stretch parameter s, defined as the difference between the maximum and instantaneous segmental extension, are statistically insignificant along the vesiculation pathway. For rods, lamellae, and polymersomes, s follows a log normal distribution. This is explained based on the configurational dynamics of a single diblock chain in water.