bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Investigation of Thermal Efficiency of a Solar Cell
Authors: Ansari Emaad , Akhtar Mohammad Nishat , Othman Wan Amir Fuad Wajdi , Abu Bakar Elmi , Alhady S. S. N.
Published: October 2022

Solar air and water heaters are beneficial in many countries across the globe where solar radiation is massive in the daytime. As the surface temperature of the photovoltaic cell increases, the efficiency of the cell scales down. We carried out the cooling of solar panels in order to maximize their efficiency. In the present work, we examined the dependence of the inlet boundary condition on the area average temperature at the outlet of the tube. The tube comprises a square cross-section and carries three folds in order to maximize the area in contact with a solar panel. We investigated the dependency of thermal efficiency of solar panels on inlet boundary conditions and observed that with the increase in Reynolds number, i.e., velocity at the inlet, the thermal efficiency initially increases up to Re = 700 and then remains constant at 94%. We also found that when 40% of the heat input was carried away by cooling water, 20% electrical efficiency was achieved.
Trajectory Planning of Aerial Robotic Manipulator Using Hybrid Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Zhao Suping , Chen Chaobo , Li Jichao , Gao Song , Guo Xinxin
Published: October 2022

The trajectory planning of an aerial robotic manipulator system is studied using Hybrid Particle Swarm Optimization (HPSO). The aerial robotic manipulator is composed of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) base and a robotic manipulator. The robotic manipulator is dynamically singular. In addition, strong coupling exists between the UAV base and the robotic manipulator. To overcome the problems, the trajectory planning is studied in the join space using HPSO. HPSO combines superiorities of PSO and GA (Genetic Algorithm), prohibiting particles from becoming trapped in a local minimum. In addition, the control parameters are self-adaptive and contribute to fast searching for the global optimum. The trajectory planning problem is converted into a parameter optimization problem. Each joint trajectory is parameterized with a Bézier curve. The HPSO is implemented to optimize joint trajectories, satisfying specific objectives and imposed constraints. Numerical simulations are also carried out to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
GPR Data Augmentation Methods by Incorporating Domain Knowledge
Authors: Yue Guanghua , Liu Chenglong , Li Yishun , Du Yuchuan , Guo Shili
Published: October 2022

Deep learning has significantly improved the recognition efficiency and accuracy of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) images. A significant number of weight parameters need to be specified, which requires lots of labeled GPR images. However, obtaining the ground-truth subsurface distress labels is challenging as they are invisible. Data augmentation is a predominant method to expand the dataset. The traditional data augmentation methods, such as rotating, scaling, cropping, and flipping, would change the GPR signals’ real features and cause the model’s poor generalization ability. We proposed three GPR data augmentation methods (gain compensation, station spacing, and radar signal mapping) to overcome these challenges by incorporating domain knowledge. Then, the most state-of-the-art model YOLOv7 was applied to verify the effectiveness of these data augmentation methods. The results showed that the proposed data augmentation methods decrease loss function values when the training epochs grow. The performance of the deep learning model gradually became stable when the original datasets were augmented two times, four times, and eight times, proving that the augmented datasets can increase the robustness of the training model. The proposed data augmentation methods can be used to expand the datasets when the labeled training GPR images are insufficient.
FRP Bridges in the Flanders Region: Experiences from the C-Bridge Project
Authors: De Corte Wouter , Uyttersprot Jordi
Published: October 2022

At the start of the C-Bridge project in 2018, the number of fibre-reinforced composite bridges in the Flanders region of Belgium was limited to a handful. These limited achievements were largely due to the poor knowledge of clients (public and private), project managers, design engineers, and contractors, which made the option of composites either unknown or still viewed with a certain degree of suspicion. In addition, there were no standards at the Belgian or European level for the design of such constructions. The C-Bridge project (roadmap into design, guidelines, and execution of composite bridges in Flanders) aimed to stimulate the design, the realization and the construction of composite bridges in Flanders by providing the necessary knowledge to the construction sector in the most suitable form. This knowledge consists of the current state of the art of composites in bridge construction, selection criteria for composite bridges, recommendations for specification texts, and in situ testing of composite bridges and structural and vibration analysis. This C-Bridge project should allow the awarding authorities and contractors to be able to make informed choices regarding fibre-reinforced polymer (fibre composite) bridges but also offer the possibility of making the necessary transformation to this new and promising material to various Flemish companies. The results of the project enable Flemish clients to draw up specifications for FRP bridges in the correct manner. Moreover, they can correctly interpret the calculation notes made available and make a correct assessment. The Flemish engineering firms, on the other hand, will be able to make their own designs of FRP bridges and bridge components. They can also build up a value chain within Flanders with Flemish contractors and producers. From the producers and suppliers’ point of view, the results of the project will lead to a clearer profile of their products on the public and private market. Finally, the general contractors and constructors will be armed to withstand the challenges that FRP bridges entail to subcontractors in terms of execution, follow-up, delivery, and maintenance. The findings are helpful for the acceptance of fibre-reinforced composite bridges as an alternative to timber, steel, or concrete bridges and should generate a market expansion for FRP in the traditionally conservative bridge-building sector first in Flanders and later internationally.
A Dynamic Heterogeneous Information Network Embedding Method Based on Meta-Path and Improved Rotate Model
Authors: Bu Hualong , Xia Jing , Wu Qilin , Chen Liping
Published: October 2022

Aiming at the current situation of network embedding research focusing on dynamic homogeneous network embedding and static heterogeneous information network embedding but lack of dynamic information utilization, this paper proposes a dynamic heterogeneous information network embedding method based on the meta-path and improved Rotate model; this method first uses meta-paths to model the semantic relationships involved in the heterogeneous information network, then uses GCNs to get local node embedding, and finally uses meta-path-level aggression mechanisms to aggregate local representations of nodes, which can solve the heterogeneous information utilization issues. In addition, a temporal processing component based on a time decay function is designed, which can effectively handle temporal information. The experimental results on two real datasets show that the method has good performance in networks with different characteristics. Compared to current mainstream methods, the accuracy of downstream clustering and node classification tasks can be improved by 0.5~41.8%, which significantly improves the quality of embedding, and it also has a shorter running time than most comparison algorithms.
A Load-Independent Current/Voltage IPT Charger with Secondary Side-Controlled Hybrid-Compensated Topology for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Li Guangyao , Jo Cheol-Hee , Shin Chang-Su , Jo Seungjin , Kim Dong-Hee
Published: October 2022

The inductive power transfer (IPT) method is an emerging charging technology that has some advantages over traditional plug-in systems. For example, it is safer, more convenient, and efficient, leading to its widespread acceptance. To design an IPT charger capable of providing a load-independent output, this paper proposes a secondary side-controlled hybrid-compensated topology used in the IPT system to charge the battery with a constant current/voltage output. According to an analysis of the Π-type network, effectively using the existing configuration compensation parameters and adding two AC switches to perform hybrid-topology switching reduces the system’s passive components. Additionally, the proposed IPT charger can easily realize zero-voltage switching. The secondary side-based control omits wireless communication links. Moreover, the control strategy is relatively simple, enhancing the system’s reliability. We designed a 1.4 kW experimental prototype with a 15 cm air gap between the transmitter and receiver to verify the proposed hybrid-compensated IPT system’s feasibility.
Development and Finite Element Analysis of a Novel Bent Bone Plate
Authors: Kurniawan Joyceline , Lin Shen-Yung , Wang Wen-Teng
Published: October 2022

The main purpose of this paper is to develop a new bone plate implant design with middle bending. The bone plate design is carried out using CAD software and then tested using FEA, where output data are combined and analyzed. The simulation outcome from COMSOL Multiphysics shows that all bone plates experienced various degrees of deformation. The best bone plate would be the newly developed plate with a 10° bending angle in the middle, in comparison with the traditional flat rectangular plate, newly flat developed plate, and other bent plate with various bending angles from material or different simulation modelling. The newly developed plate bent with a 10° bending angle in the middle has an average total displacement of 4.61 nm, average von Mises stress of 0.271 MPa, and average first principal strain of 1.77 × 10−6, making it the best choice for clinical application compared with the other bone plates analyzed.
Topology Optimization Based Material Design for 3D Domains Using MATLAB
Authors: Kazakis George , Lagaros Nikos D.
Published: October 2022

In this work, a simple, easy to use MATLAB code is presented for the optimal design of materials for 3D domains. For the optimal design of materials, the theoretical framework of topology optimization and that of homogenization were utilized to develop a formulation where the design of the micro-structure of the material is affected among others by the loading and boundary conditions of the 3D macro domain. The final result of the micro-scale can then be converted into an stl file, which can be utilized for 3D printing; however, the continuity of the unit cells when assembled to form the macro structure should be taken into account. The transition of the design of the material problem formulation from 2D to 3D domains generates drastically increased computational needs in order to perform the design procedures, which might narrow its formulation scales and the corresponding sizes of the adopted finite element discretization. Thus, in addition to the optimal design of materials implementation, the utilization of three different model order reduction (MOR) approaches is presented, aiming to assist towards the reduction of the computational cost of the two scales formulation. On-the-fly reduced order model, proper orthogonal decomposition (POD), and approximate reanalysis (AR) following the combined approximations are the three approaches adopted for the purposes of this study, while the code implementation enables the addition of new ones easily.
APF-IRRT*: An Improved Informed Rapidly-Exploring Random Trees-Star Algorithm by Introducing Artificial Potential Field Method for Mobile Robot Path Planning
Authors: Wu Daohua , Wei Lisheng , Wang Guanling , Tian Li , Dai Guangzhen
Published: October 2022

An Informed RRT* (IRRT*) algorithm is one of the optimized versions of a Rapidly-exploring Random Trees (RRT) algorithm which finds near-optimal solutions faster than RRT and RRT* algorithms by restricting the search area to an ellipsoidal subset of the state space. However, IRRT* algorithm has the disadvantage of randomness of sampling and a non-real time process, which has a negative impact on the convergence rate and search efficiency in path planning applications. In this paper, we report a hybrid algorithm by combining the Artificial Potential Field Method (APF) with an IRRT* algorithm for mobile robot path planning. By introducing the virtual force field of APF into the search tree expansion stage of the IRRT* algorithm, the guidance of the algorithm increases, which greatly improves the convergence rate and search efficiency of the IRRT* algorithm. The proposed algorithm was validated in simulations and proven to be superior to some other RRT-based algorithms in search time and path length. It also was performed in a real robotic platform, which shows that the proposed algorithm can be well executed in real scenarios.
Preliminary Study on the Larval Development of Calliphora vicina (Diptera: Calliphoridae) on Different Types of Substrates Used as Reference in Forensic Entomology
Authors: (Amariei) Cristiana , Sandu Ion , Iliescu Diana , Forna Norina , Vasilache Viorica , Sîrbu Vasile
Published: October 2022

Necrophagous insects are indicators of corpse decay. Analyses of their development stages give us indications on the degree of decay of corpses and contribute to the determination of the post-mortem interval. The differences in structure, biochemical composition and nutritive capacity of the cadaveric substratum can impair the duration of the developmental stages and dimensions of the organisms that metamorphose. This work tackles the study of the development, in laboratory conditions, of Calliphora vicina in correlation with different nutritive substrates (from areas of the corpse strongly affected by the incipient attack of Diptera) in order to obtain preliminary data, aiming to determine the post-mortem interval.
A Look at the Importance of Chirality in Drug Activity: Some Significative Examples
Authors: Ceramella Jessica , Iacopetta Domenico , Franchini Angelica , De Luca Michele , Saturnino Carmela , Andreu Inmaculada , Sinicropi Maria Stefania , Catalano Alessia
Published: October 2022

Chirality plays an important role in the development of many pharmaceuticals, being a general property of ‘handedness’; nevertheless, a large number of pharmaceuticals are still marketed and administered as racemates. Chirality is all around and even within us; indeed, receptors and enzymes are chiral entities and interact in a specific manner with chiral drugs. Consequently, controlling enantiomeric purity and isolating the enantiomers from chiral drugs remains a crucial subject for analytical, clinical, and regulatory purposes, thus, improving the drug safety profile. The classical examples of spontaneous enantiomerization and severe toxicity related to chirality are represented by ibuprofen and thalidomide, respectively, but numerous other cases have been reported in the literature. This review intends to offer a brief overview on the most common chiral drugs used in therapy for the treatment of various diseases.
Predicting the Influence of Shear on the Seismic Response of Bridge Columns
Authors: Massa Rico J. , Cook William D. , Mitchell Denis
Published: October 2022

In the seismic design and evaluation of bridges, a method is required for determining the shear strength of reinforced concrete columns to avoid brittle shear failures. In addition, detailed design and evaluation often require predictions of the complete hysteretic response of bridge columns to accurately model the nonlinear dynamic response of the bridge. Predictions of the shear strength of columns using the provisions of the AASHTO Specifications are compared with the reversed-cyclic loading test results of shear-critical columns. It is found that the Simplified Procedure results in very conservative predictions of the seismic shear strength. The General Procedure provides conservative and more accurate predictions of the seismic shear strength. It is suggested that the AASHTO reduction factor on the concrete contribution resisting shear for low compressive axial load levels be removed. Nonlinear finite element analysis predictions are made for a selection of rectangular and circular columns tested in reversed-cyclic loading and are compared with the experimental results. The ability of nonlinear finite element analysis to predict the reversed-cyclic loading responses of columns with a wide range of variables and having different failure modes is demonstrated.
Sustainable Energy Systems Planning, Integration and Management (Volume II)
Authors: Anvari-Moghaddam Amjad , Mohammadi-ivatloo Behnam , Asadi Somayeh , Shahidehpour Mohammad
Published: October 2022

Affordable and clean energy is one of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) introduced by the United Nations that are required to be followed by all developed and developing countries [...]
Higher Heat Stress Increases the Negative Impact on Rice Production in South China: A New Perspective on Agricultural Weather Index Insurance
Authors: Cao Wen , Duan Chunfeng , Yang Taiming , Wang Sheng
Published: October 2022

Rice is a major staple food grain for more than half of the world’s population, and China is the largest rice producer and consumer in the world. In a climate-warming context, the frequency, duration and intensity of heat waves tend to increase, and rice production will be exposed to higher heat damage risks. Understanding the negative impacts of climate change on the rice supply is a critical issue. In this study, a new perspective on agricultural weather index insurance is proposed to investigate the impact of extreme high-temperature events on rice production in South China in the context of climate change. Based on data from meteorological stations in Anhui Province in China from 1961 to 2018 and the projected data from five Global Climate Models under three representative concentration pathway (RCP) scenarios from 2021 to 2099, the spatial–temporal characteristics of heat stress and its influence on rice production were analyzed by employing a weather index insurance model. The interdecadal breakpoints in the trends of the heat stress weather insurance index (HSWI) and the payout from 1961 to 2018 in 1987 were both determined, which are consistent with the more significant global warming since the 1980s. The largest increase after 1987 was found in the southeastern part of the study area. The projected HSWI and the payout increased significantly from 2021 to 2099, and their growth was faster with higher radiative forcing levels. The HSWI values were on average 1.4 times, 3.3 times and 6.1 times higher and the payouts were on average 3.9 times, 9.8 times and 15.0 times higher than the reference values for the near future, mid-future and far future, respectively. The results suggest that a more severe influence of heat damage on rice production will probably happen in the future, and it is vital to develop relevant adaptation strategies for the effects of a warmer climate and heat stress on rice production. This paper provides an alternative way to transform the evaluation of the extreme climate event index into the quantitative estimation of disaster impacts on crop production.
Impact of Material on Response and Calibration of Particle Number Systems
Authors: Giechaskiel Barouch , Melas Anastasios
Published: October 2022

In Europe and Asia, vehicle emissions regulations include a number limit for particles larger than 23 nm, which might be reduced to 10 nm in the future. A particle number system (LABS) consists of a volatile particle remover (VPR) and a particle number counter (PNC). However, it is not simple to derive the combined penetration (efficiency), because the parts are calibrated separately at different sizes and with different materials. On the other hand, portable emissions measurement systems (PEMS) for real-driving emissions (RDE) testing or counters for periodical technical inspection (PTI) of vehicle exhaust are calibrated as complete units with soot-like aerosol. The aim of this study is to estimate the efficiency of a LABS using different materials (soot, graphite, salt, silver, emery oil), typically used for the calibration of LABS, PEMS or PTI counters. The results show that appropriate selection of the calibration material is important in order to have representative of the reality efficiencies. The impact is very high for 23 nm systems, but less critical for 10 nm systems. The estimation of a mean size based on the ratio of 23 nm and 10 nm measurements and the correction of the losses in the sub-23 nm region are also discussed.
Learning Cephalometric Landmarks for Diagnostic Features Using Regression Trees
Authors: Suhail Sameera , Harris Kayla , Sinha Gaurav , Schmidt Maayan , Durgekar Sujala , Mehta Shivam , Upadhyay Madhur
Published: October 2022

Lateral cephalograms provide important information regarding dental, skeletal, and soft-tissue parameters that are critical for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. Several machine learning methods have previously been used for the automated localization of diagnostically relevant landmarks on lateral cephalograms. In this study, we applied an ensemble of regression trees to solve this problem. We found that despite the limited size of manually labeled images, we can improve the performance of landmark detection by augmenting the training set using a battery of simple image transforms. We further demonstrated the calculation of second-order features encoding the relative locations of landmarks, which are diagnostically more important than individual landmarks.
Development of Adenovirus Containing Liposomes Produced by Extrusion vs. Homogenization: A Comparison for Scale-Up Purposes
Authors: Shah Jaimin R. , Dong Tao , Phung Abraham T. , Reid Tony , Larson Christopher , Sanchez Ana B. , Oronsky Bryan , Blair Sarah L. , Aisagbonhi Omonigho , Trogler William C. , Kummel Andrew C.
Published: October 2022

Adenovirus (Ad) is a widely studied viral vector for cancer therapy as it can be engineered to cause selective lysis of cancer cells. However, Ad delivery is limited in treating cancers that do not have coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptors (CAR). To overcome this challenge, Ad-encapsulated liposomes were developed that enhance the delivery of Ads and increase therapeutic efficacy. Cationic empty liposomes were manufactured first, to which an anionic Ad were added, which resulted in encapsulated Ad liposomes through charge interaction. Optimization of the liposome formula was carried out with series of formulation variables experiments using an extrusion process, which is ideal for laboratory-scale small batches. Later, the optimized formulation was manufactured with a homogenization technique—A high shear rotor-stator blending, that is ideal for large-scale manufacturing and is in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Comparative in vitro transduction, physicochemical characterization, long-term storage stability at different temperature conditions, and in vivo animal studies were performed. Ad encapsulated liposomes transduced CAR deficient cells 100-fold more efficiently than the unencapsulated Ad (p ≤ 0.0001) in vitro, and 4-fold higher in tumors injected in nude mice in vivo. Both extrusion and homogenization performed similarly–with equivalent in vitro and in vivo transduction efficiencies, physicochemical characterization, and long-term storage stability. Thus, two Ad encapsulated liposomes preparation methods used herein, i.e., extrusion vs. homogenization were equivalent in terms of enhanced Ad performance and long-term storage stability; this will, hopefully, facilitate translation to the clinic.
Biocompatibility and Connectivity of Semiconductor Nanostructures for Cardiac Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Gaetani Roberto , Derevyanchuk Yuriy , Notargiacomo Andrea , Pea Marialilia , Renzi Massimiliano , Messina Elisa , Palma Fabrizio
Published: October 2022

Nano- or microdevices, enabling simultaneous, long-term, multisite, cellular recording and stimulation from many excitable cells, are expected to make a strategic turn in basic and applied cardiology (particularly tissue engineering) and neuroscience. We propose an innovative approach aiming to elicit bioelectrical information from the cell membrane using an integrated circuit (IC) bearing a coating of nanowires on the chip surface. Nanowires grow directly on the backend of the ICs, thus allowing on-site amplification of bioelectric signals with uniform and controlled morphology and growth of the NWs on templates. To implement this technology, we evaluated the biocompatibility of silicon and zinc oxide nanowires (NWs), used as a seeding substrate for cells in culture, on two different primary cell lines. Human cardiac stromal cells were used to evaluate the effects of ZnO NWs of different lengths on cell behavior, morphology and growth, while BV-2 microglial-like cells and GH4-C1 neuroendocrine-like cell lines were used to evaluate cell membrane–NW interaction and contact when cultured on Si NWs. As the optimization of the contact between integrated microelectronics circuits and cellular membranes represents a long-standing issue, our technological approach may lay the basis for a new era of devices exploiting the microelectronics’ sensitivity and “smartness” to both improve investigation of biological systems and to develop suitable NW-based systems available for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Association between RNAm-Based COVID-19 Vaccines and Permanency of Menstrual Cycle Alterations in Spanish Women: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mínguez-Esteban Isabel , García-Ginés Pablo , Romero-Morales Carlos , Abuín-Porras Vanesa , Navia Jose A. , Alonso-Pérez Jose Luis , de la Cueva-Reguera Mónica
Published: October 2022

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to delve more deeply into the medium and long-term relation between mRNA-based vaccines and changes in menstrual pain, cycle length, and amount of bleeding in Spanish women. Material and Methods: A total of 746 women (63% between 18–30 and 37% between 31–45 years old) participated in the study. A numerical rating scale was used for recording pain intensity, a pictorial chart for menstrual bleeding, and data from menstrual cycle duration, type of vaccine, number of doses and time from vaccination. Results: Sixty-five per cent of the women perceived changes in their menstrual cycle after receiving the vaccines, irrespective of type of vaccine or number of doses; all p values were >0.05. Most of them (n = 316 out of 484) reported more than one alteration in their menstrual cycle. Almost half of the participants had been vaccinated over 5 months (45%), 3–4 months (15%) 2–3 months (26%), and one month or less (13%) before. The percentage of women that reported alterations remained strongly constant across time, p > 0.05, ranging from 64 to 65%. Conclusions: Reported alterations in Spanish women after COVID vaccination remained more than 5 months after the last dose.
Non-Selective PDE4 Inhibition Induces a Rapid and Transient Decrease of Serum Potassium in Mice
Authors: Boyd Abigail , Lochmaier Peter , Irelan Daniel , Fiedler Edward , Lee Ji , Fouty Brian , Abou Saleh Lina , Richter Wito
Published: October 2022

The analysis of blood samples from mice treated with the PDE4 inhibitor Roflumilast revealed an unexpected reduction in serum potassium levels, while sodium and chloride levels were unaffected. Treatment with several structurally distinct PAN-PDE4 inhibitors, including Roflumilast, Rolipram, RS25344, and YM976 dose-dependently reduced serum potassium levels, indicating the effect is a class-characteristic property. PDE4 inhibition also induces hypothermia and hypokinesia in mice. However, while general anesthesia abrogates these effects of PDE4 inhibitors, potassium levels decrease to similar extents in both awake as well as in fully anesthetized mice. This suggests that the hypokalemic effects of PDE4 inhibitors occur independently of hypothermia and hypokinesia. PDE4 inhibition reduces serum potassium within 15 min of treatment, consistent with a rapid transcellular shift of potassium. Catecholamines promote the uptake of potassium into the cell via increased cAMP signaling. PDE4 appears to modulate these adrenoceptor-mediated effects, as PDE4 inhibition has no additional effects on serum potassium in the presence of saturating doses of the β-adrenoceptor agonist Isoprenaline or the α2-blocker Yohimbine, and is partially blocked by pre-treatment with the β-blocker Propranolol. Together, these data suggest that PDE4 inhibitors reduce serum potassium levels by modulating the adrenergic regulation of cellular potassium uptake.
Negative Magnetic Sorting Preserves the Functionality of Ex Vivo Cultivated Non-Adherent Human Monocytes
Authors: Hornschuh Melanie , Haas Vivian , Winkel Paul P. , Gökyildirim Mira Y. , Mullins Christina S. , Wrobel Ida Maria , Manteuffel Christian , Wirthgen Elisa
Published: October 2022

Background: Monocyte-derived macrophages or dendritic cells are of increasing interest for cellular therapeutic products to treat inflammation-related diseases and cancer. However, the isolation method and the culture conditions applied influence the functionality of cells. For some approaches, the adhesion-induced differentiation into macrophages must be prevented to maintain functions attributed to circulating monocytes. The effects of the isolation method on the functionality of non-adherent peripheral monocytes have not yet been investigated. Methods: The present study examines the impact of the isolation method on cell viability, growth, metabolism, inflammation-induced cytokine response, migratory capacity, and adherence of non-adherent human peripheral monocytes. The monocytes were isolated by magnetic sorting using either positive or negative selection and cultured in cell-repellent plates. Results: The purity and yield of monocytes were higher after positive selection. However, the adherence and migratory capacity, cytokine response, and metabolic activity were decreased compared to negatively selected monocytes. The impaired functionality presented in combination with cell shrinking, thus, indicates the start of cell viability loss. Negatively selected non-adherent monocytes showed no impairment in functionality, and the viability remained high. In conclusion, this approach is better suited for conducting ex vivo modifications of monocytes prior to the intended experimental setup or therapeutic application.
The Role of Ca2+ Sparks in Force Frequency Relationships in Guinea Pig Ventricular Myocytes
Authors: Paudel Roshan , Jafri Mohsin Saleet , Ullah Aman
Published: October 2022

Calcium sparks are the elementary Ca2+ release events in excitation-contraction coupling that underlie the Ca2+ transient. The frequency-dependent contractile force generated by cardiac myocytes depends upon the characteristics of the Ca2+ transients. A stochastic computational local control model of a guinea pig ventricular cardiomyocyte was developed, to gain insight into mechanisms of force-frequency relationship (FFR). This required the creation of a new three-state RyR2 model that reproduced the adaptive behavior of RyR2, in which the RyR2 channels transition into a different state when exposed to prolonged elevated subspace [Ca2+]. The model simulations agree with previous experimental and modeling studies on interval-force relations. Unlike previous common pool models, this local control model displayed stable action potential trains at 7 Hz. The duration and the amplitude of the [Ca2+]myo transients increase in pacing rates consistent with the experiments. The [Ca2+]myo transient reaches its peak value at 4 Hz and decreases afterward, consistent with experimental force-frequency curves. The model predicts, in agreement with previous modeling studies of Jafri and co-workers, diastolic sarcoplasmic reticulum, [Ca2+]sr, and RyR2 adaptation increase with the increased stimulation frequency, producing rising, rather than falling, amplitude of the myoplasmic [Ca2+] transients. However, the local control model also suggests that the reduction of the L-type Ca2+ current, with an increase in pacing frequency due to Ca2+-dependent inactivation, also plays a role in the negative slope of the FFR. In the simulations, the peak Ca2+ transient in the FFR correlated with the highest numbers of SR Ca2+ sparks: the larger average amplitudes of those sparks, and the longer duration of the Ca2+ sparks.
Prostate-Specific Antigen Monitoring Using Nano Zinc(II) Metal–Organic Framework-Based Optical Biosensor
Authors: El-Sheikh Said M. , Sheta Sheta M. , Salem Salem R. , Abd-Elzaher Mohkles M. , Basaleh Amal S. , Labib Ammar A.
Published: October 2022

Background: The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is an important cancer biomarker that is commonly utilized in the diagnosis of prostate cancer. The development of a PSA determination technique that is rapid, simple, and inexpensive, in addition to highly accurate, sensitive, and selective, remains a formidable obstacle. Methods: In this study, we developed a practical biosensor based on Zn(II) metal–organic framework nanoparticles (Zn-MOFs-NPs). Many spectroscopic and microanalytical tools are used to determine the structure, morphology, and physicochemical properties of the prepared MOF. Results: According to the results, Zn-MOFs-NPs are sensitive to PSA, selective to an extremely greater extent, and stable in terms of chemical composition. Furthermore, the Zn-MOFs-NPs did not exhibit any interferences from other common analytes that might cause interference. The detection limit for PSA was calculated and was 0.145 fg/mL throughout a wide linear concentration range (0.1 fg/mL–20 pg/mL). Conclusions: Zn-MOFs-NPs were successfully used as a growing biosensor for the monitoring and measurement of PSA in biological real samples.
Electrochemical Determination of Morphine in Urine Samples by Tailoring FeWO4/CPE Sensor
Authors: Ognjanović Miloš , Nikolić Katarina , Bošković Marko , Pastor Ferenc , Popov Nina , Marciuš Marijan , Krehula Stjepko , Antić Bratislav , Stanković Dalibor M.
Published: October 2022

Morphine (MORPH) is natural alkaloid and mainly used as a pain reliever. Its monitoring in human body fluids is crucial for modern medicine. In this paper, we have developed an electrochemical sensor for submicromolar detection of MORPH. The sensor is based on modified carbon paste electrode (CPE) by investigating the FexW1-xO4 ratio in iron tungstate (FeWO4), as well as the ratio of this material in CPE. For the first time, the effect of the iron–tungsten ratio in terms of achieving the best possible electrochemical characteristics for the detection of an important molecule for humans was examined. Morphological and electrochemical characteristics of materials were studied. The best results were obtained using Fe1W3 and 7.5% of modifier in CPE. For MORPH detection, square wave voltammetry (SWV) was optimized. Under the optimized conditions, Fe1W3@CPE resulted in limit of detection (LOD) of the method of 0.58 µM and limit of quantification (LOQ) of 1.94 µM. The linear operating range between 5 and 85 µM of MORPH in the Britton–Robinson buffer solution (BRBS) at pH 8 as supporting electrolyte was obtained. The Fe1W3@CPE sensor resulted in good selectivity and excellent repeatability with relative standard deviation (RSD) and was applied in real-world samples of human urine. Application for direct MORPH detection, without tedious sample pretreatment procedures, suggests that developed electrochemical sensor has appeared to be a suitable competitor for efficient, precise, and accurate monitoring of the MORPH in biological fluids.
2D-Materials-Based Wearable Biosensor Systems
Authors: Wang Yi , Li Tong , Li Yangfeng , Yang Rong , Zhang Guangyu
Published: October 2022

As an evolutionary success in life science, wearable biosensor systems, which can monitor human health information and quantify vital signs in real time, have been actively studied. Research in wearable biosensor systems is mainly focused on the design of sensors with various flexible materials. Among them, 2D materials with excellent mechanical, optical, and electrical properties provide the expected characteristics to address the challenges of developing microminiaturized wearable biosensor systems. This review summarizes the recent research progresses in 2D-materials-based wearable biosensors including e-skin, contact lens sensors, and others. Then, we highlight the challenges of flexible power supply technologies for smart systems. The latest advances in biosensor systems involving wearable wristbands, diabetic patches, and smart contact lenses are also discussed. This review will enable a better understanding of the design principle of 2D biosensors, offering insights into innovative technologies for future biosensor systems toward their practical applications.
In Vivo Measurements of Transcranial Electrical Stimulation in Lesioned Human Brain: A Case Report
Authors: Jiang Hongjie , Wang Minmin , Wu Dan , Zhang Jianmin , Zhang Shaomin
Published: October 2022

Transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) has been utilized widely in populations with brain lesions, such as stroke patients. The tES-generated electric field (EF) within the brain is considered as one of the most important factors for physiological effects. However, it is still unclear how brain lesions may influence EF distribution induced by tES. In this case study, we reported in vivo measurements of EF in one epilepsy participant with brain lesions during different tES montages. With the in vivo EF data measured by implanted stereo-electroencephalography (sEEG) electrodes, the simulation model was investigated and validated. Our results demonstrate that the prediction ability of the current simulation model may be degraded in the lesioned human brain.
Hypertension and Low Body Weight Are Associated with Depressive Symptoms Only in Females: Findings from the Shika Study
Authors: Yanagisawa Toru , Suzuki Fumihiko , Tsujiguchi Hiromasa , Hara Akinori , Miyagi Sakae , Kannon Takayuki , Suzuki Keita , Shimizu Yukari , Nguyen Thao Thi Thu , Oku Fumika , Sato Kuniko , Nakamura Masaharu , Hayashi Koichiro , Shibata Aki , Konoshita Tadashi , Kambayashi Yasuhiro , Tsuboi Hirohito , Tajima Atsushi , Nakamura Hiroyuki
Published: October 2022

Although the relationship between hypertension and depression is influenced by several physiological factors, including body weight and other lifestyle factors, such as eating behavior, the specific involvement of depression in hypertension remains unclear. Therefore, this epidemiological study examined the role of body weight in the relationship between hypertension and depressive symptoms among the middle-aged and elderly living in the community of Shika town. In total, 1141 males and 1142 females with mean ages of 69.09 and 70.61 years, respectively, participated this study. Physiological factors, including blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), and lifestyle, were investigated in a medical check-up in Shika town. Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Geriatric Depression Scale 15 (GDS-15). A two-way analysis of covariance exhibited a significant interaction between the two hypertensive groups and body size groups on GDS in females. The post hoc Bonferroni method showed that in the hypertensive groups, GDS was significantly higher in the underweight group (BMI < 18.5) than in the standard/overweight group; however, this relationship was not observed in the no-hypertensive groups. Multiple regression analysis also verified this relationship. Therefore, it is suggested that the combination of hypertension and being underweight is associated with depressive symptoms only in females.
New Psychological Perspectives on Death and Dying—Between Normality and the COVID-19 Emergency
Authors: Testoni Ines
Published: October 2022

In recent decades, there has been a constantly increasing preoccupation with physical perfection and the scientific urge to improve life expectancy [...]
Effects of Ingroup Identification on Ingroup Favouritism during Fairness Norm Enforcement
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Su Hanli , Li Menghui , Zhao Hui , Qi Chunhui
Published: October 2022

People tend to voluntarily sacrifice their own interests to reject unfair proposals, and this behaviour is affected by group affiliation. While group bias is a well-established phenomenon, its direction is still unclear, and little attention has been given to possible moderating factors. In two studies, we manipulate participants’ ingroup identification and investigate whether and how individuals with various levels of ingroup identification react differently to unfairness from ingroups and outgroups during an incentivized (Study 1, N = 46) and hypothetical (Study 2, N = 332) ultimatum game. The results show that participants display a strong preference for their own group. High identifiers tend to accept unfair proposals from ingroups compared to outgroups, whereas this effect is nonsignificant for low identifiers, especially for moderately unfair treatment (offer 7:3). Moreover, higher identification tends to be accompanied by higher ingroup positive expectation, which then leads to greater ingroup favouritism for an offer of 7:3. These results imply that ingroup identification can enhance group favouritism during fairness norm enforcement through ingroup positive expectation.
Making ‘the National Image’ of Korea: From the Shrine of the Joseon Dynasty to the National Memorial of the Republic of Korea
Authors: Kim Jihong
Published: October 2022

Korea tried to reconstruct its tradition as a modern nation and promote nationalism only in the 1960s, a relatively late period compared to the West. So-called “tradition-making” began by promoting the full-fledged national shrine project to commemorate historical figures in a short period. These national shrines were built in a traditional style and embodied a national image representing Korea. This study analyzed which elements of traditional Korean architecture were selectively adopted for the main hall of Hyeonchungsa, the first national shrine, and discussed how these choices were intertwined with the discourses on Korean architecture at the time by tracing their historical, cultural, and political context. Although the ‘newly invented’ national shrine functionally resembled a Confucian shrine, it favored splendid and magnificent elements on its exterior, a tendency that is well-demonstrated in the shape of its roof, the decoration of the eaves, and the elevation. This style reflects the modern perspective that regarded the roof curve as an essential feature to define the identity of Korean architecture. Additionally, it can be seen as an effort to reevaluate the architectural style of the Joseon Dynasty, which was belittled during the Japanese colonial period. In addition, these national shrines showed an attempt to reproduce the architectural form of the past with modern material–concrete–by actively referring to the drawing data derived from the actual measurement surveys of historical buildings that were carried out vigorously in the early 1960s. Although these buildings have not been valued in academia amid criticism of the political use of traditions, they played a critical role in spreading the “image of Korean tradition”.
Multi-Information Fusion Based on BIM and Intuitionistic Fuzzy D-S Evidence Theory for Safety Risk Assessment of Undersea Tunnel Construction Projects
Authors: Xun Xiaolin , Zhang Jun , Yuan Yongbo
Published: October 2022

Safety risk assessment is essential in ensuring the smooth construction of undersea tunnels. Obtaining reasonable safety risk assessment results requires multi-source information that enjoys static and dynamic attributes. However, acquiring and utilizing such uncertain information creates difficulties in the decision-making process. Therefore, this paper proposes a safety risk assessment approach based on building information modeling (BIM), intuitionistic fuzzy set (IFS) theory, and Dempster–Shafer (D-S) evidence theory. Firstly, an undersea tunnel construction collapse risk evaluation index system is established to clarify the information requirements of the pre-construction and construction stages. The semantic information of the BIM geometric model is then enriched through industry foundation classes (IFC) extension to match the multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) process, with BIM technology used to assist in information acquisition and risk visualization. Finally, based on the intuitionistic fuzzy D-S evidence theory, multi-information fusion is performed to dynamically determine safety risk levels. Specifically, IFS theory is utilized for basic probability assignments (BPAs) determination before applying D-S evidence theory. The conflicting evidence is dealt with by reliability calculation based on the normalized Hamming distance between pairs of IFSs, while safety risk levels are accomplished with score functions of intuitionistic fuzzy values (IFVs). The proposed method is applied to collapse risk assessment in the karst developed area of a shield tunnel construction project in Dalian, China, and the feasibility and effectiveness are verified. The novelty of the proposed method lies in: (1) information collaboration between the BIM model and the dynamic safety risk assessment process being realized through IFC-based semantic enrichment and Dynamo programming to enhance the decision-making process and (2) the introduction of IFS theory to improve the applicability of D-S evidence theory in expressing fuzziness and hesitation during multi-information fusion. With the proposed method, dynamic safety risk assessment of undersea tunnel construction projects can be performed under uncertainty, fuzziness, and a conflicting environment, while the safety risk perception can be enhanced through visualization.