bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the Dynamical Relationships between PM2.5 and PM10 in the Caribbean Area Using a Multiscale Framework
Authors: Plocoste Thomas , Sankaran Adarsh , Euphrasie-Clotilde Lovely
Published: February 2023

The Caribbean basin is a geographical area with a high prevalence of asthma due to mineral dust. As such, it is crucial to analyze the dynamic behavior of particulate pollutants in this region. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between particulate matter with aerodynamic diameters less than or equal to 2.5 and 10 μm (PM2.5 and PM10) using Hilbert–Huang transform (HHT)-based approaches, including the time-dependent intrinsic correlation (TDIC) and time-dependent intrinsic cross-correlation (TDICC) frames. The study utilized datasets from Puerto Rico from between 2007 and 2010 to demonstrate the relationships between two primary particulate matter concentration datasets of air pollution across multiple time scales. The method first decomposes both time series using improved complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (ICEEMDAN) to obtain the periodic scales. The Hilbert spectral analysis identified two dominant peaks at a weekly scale for both PM types. High amplitude contributions were sustained for long and continuous time periods at seasonal to intra-seasonal scales, with similar trends in spectral amplitude observed for both types of PM except for monthly and intra-seasonal scales of six months. The TDIC method was used to analyze the resulting modes with similar periodic scales, revealing the strongest and most stable correlation pattern at quarterly and annual cycles. Subsequently, lagged correlations at each time scale were analyzed using the TDICC method. For high-frequency PM10 intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) less than a seasonal scale, the value of the IMF at a given time scale was found to be dependent on multiple antecedent values of PM2.5. However, from the quarterly scale onward, the correlation pattern of the PM2.5-PM10 relationship was stable, and IMFs of PM10 at these scales could be modeled by the lag 1 IMF of PM2.5. These results demonstrate that PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations are dynamically linked during the passage of African dust storms.
Spatiotemporal Analysis of the Background Seismicity Identified by Different Declustering Methods in Northern Algeria and Its Vicinity
Authors: Benali Amel , Jalilian Abdollah , Peresan Antonella , Varini Elisa , Idrissou Sara
Published: February 2023

The main purpose of this paper was to, for the first time, analyse the spatiotemporal features of the background seismicity of Northern Algeria and its vicinity, as identified by different declustering methods (specifically: the Gardner and Knopoff, Gruenthal, Uhrhammer, Reasenberg, Nearest Neighbour, and Stochastic Declustering methods). Each declustering method identifies a different declustered catalogue, namely a different subset of the earthquake catalogue that represents the background seismicity, which is usually expected to be a realisation of a homogeneous Poisson process over time, though not necessarily in space. In this study, a statistical analysis was performed to assess whether the background seismicity identified by each declustering method has the spatiotemporal properties typical of such a Poisson process. The main statistical tools of the analysis were the coefficient of variation, the Allan factor, the Markov-modulated Poisson process (also named switched Poisson process with multiple states), the Morisita index, and the L–function. The results obtained for Northern Algeria showed that, in all cases, temporal correlation and spatial clustering were reduced, but not totally eliminated in the declustered catalogues, especially at long time scales. We found that the Stochastic Declustering and Gruenthal methods were the most successful methods in reducing time correlation. For each declustered catalogue, the switched Poisson process with multiple states outperformed the uniform Poisson model, and it was selected as the best model to describe the background seismicity in time. Moreover, for all declustered catalogues, the spatially inhomogeneous Poisson process did not fit properly the spatial distribution of earthquake epicentres. Hence, the assumption of stationary and homogeneous Poisson process, widely used in seismic hazard assessment, was not met by the investigated catalogue, independently from the adopted declustering method. Accounting for the spatiotemporal features of the background seismicity identified in this study is, therefore, a key element towards effective seismic hazard assessment and earthquake forecasting in Algeria and the surrounding area.
A Remark on Weak Tracial Approximation
Authors: Fang Xiaochun , Yang Junqi
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we extend the notion of generalized tracial approximation to the non-unital case. An example of this approximation, which comes from dynamical systems, is also provided. We use the machinery of Cuntz subequivalence to work in this non-unital setting.
Aging of a Lithium-Metal/LFP Cell: Predictive Model and Experimental Validation
Authors: Dessantis Davide , Di Prima Piera , Versaci Daniele , Amici Julia , Francia Carlotta , Bodoardo Silvia , Santarelli Massimo
Published: February 2023

Actual market requirements for storage systems highlight the limits of graphite as an anode for Li-ion batteries. Lithium metal can represent a suitable alternative to graphite due to its high theoretical specific capacity (about 3860 mAh g−1) and low negative redox potential. However, several aging mechanisms, such as dendrite growth, lithium loss and the formation of an unstable SEI, decrease the performances of Li-based batteries. A suitable strategy to better understand and study these mechanisms could be the development of an electrochemical model that forecasts the aging behaviour of a lithium-metal battery. In this work, a P2D aging electrochemical model for an Li-based cell was developed. The main innovation is represented by the combination of two aspects: the substitution of graphite with metallic lithium as an anode and the implementation of SEI growth on the metallic lithium surface. The calibration of the model, based on experimental measurements and the successive validation, led to us obtaining a good accuracy between the simulated and experimental curves. This good accuracy makes the developed P2D aging model a versatile and suitable approach for further investigations on Li-based batteries considering all the aging phenomena involved.
High-Entropy Metal Oxide (NiMnCrCoFe)3O4 Anode Materials with Controlled Morphology for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Xuan Liang , Jin En Mei , Sahoo Gopinath , Jeong Sang Mun
Published: February 2023

High-entropy metal oxides (HEMOs) with several functional properties, including high structural stability and superior conductivity, have been recently utilized in energy-storage devices. Morphology control is the key factor to optimizing HEMO performance for successful use in lithium-ion anode materials. Hence, in this study, HEMO ((NiMnCrCoFe)3O4) was synthesized via a hydrothermal reaction and subsequent post-annealing process, where cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and urea were used to optimize the morphological structure of HEMO particles to ensure a bimodal distribution. A bimodal particle distribution of HEMO was observed and the electrochemical performance was also investigated for an anode in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). The proposed bimodal HEMO manifests a superior electrochemical performance compared to existing HEMO, which is controlled by uniform nanoscale or micro-sized secondary particles. The present study shows that collective metal cations with different ionic radii, valence states, and reaction potentials, and a diversification of structures, enable a synergistic effect for the excellent performance of HEMOs in LIBs. The proposed HEMO shows an improved initial discharge capacity of 527 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 5 A g−1 compared to the other referred HEMO systems, and 99.8% cycle retention after 300 cycles. Further, this work allows a new approach for designing multi-element transition metal oxide anode materials using a high-entropy strategy, which can be employed in the development of advanced LIBs.
Flat Magnetic Stimulation for Stress Urinary Incontinence: A Prospective Comparison Study
Authors: Frigerio Matteo , Barba Marta , Cola Alice , Marino Giuseppe , Volontè Silvia , Melocchi Tomaso , De Vicari Desirèe , Maruccia Serena
Published: February 2023

Background: Flat Magnetic Stimulation (FMS) is characterized by a stimulation generated by electromagnetic fields with a homogenous profile. One possible application is the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). We aimed to compare the objective, subjective, quality of life, and instrumental outcomes in women with SUI not eligible for surgery undergoing either FMS or pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT). Methods: This was a prospective interventional study. After proper counseling, patients with isolated SUI were divided according to their treatment of choice into FMS and PFMT groups. At baseline and after treatment, patients completed the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form, the Female Sexual Function Index, and the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire, and volumetric measurement of the urethral rhabdosphincter (RS) was performed. The Patient Global Impression of Improvement questionnaire and stress test defined subjective and objective cure rates, respectively. Results: We observed improvements in urinary-related quality of life scores and an increase in RS volume after FMS compared to baseline. All these outcomes were significantly better compared to women who underwent PFMT. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that FMS is a safe and effective conservative option for SUI management in terms of objective and subjective cure rates.
On the Advent of Super-Resolution Microscopy in the Realm of Polycomb Proteins
Authors: Nepita Irene , Piazza Simonluca , Ruglioni Martina , Cristiani Sofia , Bosurgi Emanuele , Salvadori Tiziano , Vicidomini Giuseppe , Diaspro Alberto , Castello Marco , Cerase Andrea , Bianchini Paolo , Storti Barbara , Bizzarri Ranieri
Published: February 2023

The genomes of metazoans are organized at multiple spatial scales, ranging from the double helix of DNA to whole chromosomes. The intermediate genomic scale of kilobases to megabases, which corresponds to the 50–300 nm spatial scale, is particularly interesting, as the 3D arrangement of chromatin is implicated in multiple regulatory mechanisms. In this context, polycomb group (PcG) proteins stand as major epigenetic modulators of chromatin function, acting prevalently as repressors of gene transcription by combining chemical modifications of target histones with physical crosslinking of distal genomic regions and phase separation. The recent development of super-resolution microscopy (SRM) has strongly contributed to improving our comprehension of several aspects of nano-/mesoscale (10–200 nm) chromatin domains. Here, we review the current state-of-the-art SRM applied to PcG proteins, showing that the application of SRM to PcG activity and organization is still quite limited and mainly focused on the 3D assembly of PcG-controlled genomic loci. In this context, SRM approaches have mostly been applied to multilabel fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). However, SRM data have complemented the maps obtained from chromosome capture experiments and have opened a new window to observe how 3D chromatin topology is modulated by PcGs.
Identification of Putative Molecules for Adiponectin and Adiponectin Receptor and Their Roles in Learning and Memory in Lymnaea stagnalis
Authors: Fujimoto Kanta , Totani Yuki , Nakai Junko , Chikamoto Nozomi , Namiki Kengo , Hatakeyama Dai , Ito Etsuro
Published: February 2023

Adiponectin enhances insulin sensitivity, which improves cognition in mammals. How adiponectin affects the mechanism’s underlying cognition, however, remains unknown. We hypothesized that experiments using the pond snail Lymnaea stagnalis, which has long been used in learning and memory studies and in which the function of insulin-like peptides affect learning and memory, could clarify the basic mechanisms by which adiponectin affects cognition. We first identified putative molecules of adiponectin and its receptor in Lymnaea. We then examined their distribution in the central nervous system and changes in their expression levels when hemolymph glucose concentrations were intentionally decreased by food deprivation. We also applied an operant conditioning protocol of escape behavior to Lymnaea and examined how the expression levels of adiponectin and its receptor changed after the conditioned behavior was established. The results demonstrate that adiponectin and adiponectin’s receptor expression levels were increased in association with a reduced concentration of hemolymph glucose and that expression levels of both adiponectin and insulin-like peptide receptors were increased after the conditioning behavior was established. Thus, the involvement of the adiponectin-signaling cascade in learning and memory in Lymnaea was suggested to occur via changes in the glucose concentrations and the activation of insulin.
Bioactive Compounds of Verbascum sinuatum L.: Health Benefits and Potential as New Ingredients for Industrial Applications
Authors: Donn Pauline , Barciela Paula , Perez-Vazquez Ana , Cassani Lucia , Simal-Gandara Jesus , Prieto Miguel A.
Published: February 2023

Verbascum sinuatum (V. sinuatum) is a plant belonging to the Scrophulariaceae family that has been used as an ingredient in traditional medicine infusions for the treatment of many diseases. The aerial part of this plant is a source of bioactive compounds, especially polyphenols and iridoids. Moreover, antioxidant activity studies have shown that V. sinuatum phenolic and flavonoid composition is higher than those in other plants of the same genus. V. sinuatum bioactive compound composition could vary according to the harvesting location, growing conditions of the plants, sample preparation methods, type and concentration of the extraction solvent, and the extraction methods. The obtention of these compounds can be achieved by different extraction techniques, most commonly, maceration, heat assisted extraction, and infusion. Nevertheless, since conventional extraction techniques have several drawbacks such as long times of extraction or use of large amounts of solvents, the use of green extraction techniques is suggested, without affecting the efficiency of the extraction. Moreover, V. sinuatum bioactive compounds have several biological activities, such as antioxidant, anticancer, cardiovascular, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective activities, that may be increased by encapsulation. Since the bioactive compounds extracted from V. sinuatum present good potential as functional food ingredients and in the development of drugs or cosmetics, this review gives an approach of the possible incorporation of these compounds in the food and pharmacological industries.
Evolutionary Origin of MUTYH Germline Pathogenic Variations in Modern Humans
Authors: Xiao Fengxia , Li Jiaheng , Lagniton Philip Naderev Panuringan , Kou Si Hoi , Lei Huijun , Tam Benjamin , Wang San Ming
Published: February 2023

MUTYH plays an essential role in preventing oxidation-caused DNA damage. Pathogenic germline variations in MUTYH damage its function, causing intestinal polyposis and colorectal cancer. Determination of the evolutionary origin of the variation is essential to understanding the etiological relationship between MUTYH variation and cancer development. In this study, we analyzed the origins of pathogenic germline variants in human MUTYH. Using a phylogenic approach, we searched MUTYH pathogenic variants in modern humans in the MUTYH of 99 vertebrates across eight clades. We did not find pathogenic variants shared between modern humans and the non-human vertebrates following the evolutionary tree, ruling out the possibility of cross-species conservation as the origin of human pathogenic variants in MUTYH. We then searched the variants in the MUTYH of 5031 ancient humans and extinct Neanderthals and Denisovans. We identified 24 pathogenic variants in 42 ancient humans dated between 30,570 and 480 years before present (BP), and three pathogenic variants in Neanderthals dated between 65,000 and 38,310 years BP. Data from our study revealed that human MUTYH pathogenic variants mostly arose in recent human history and partially originated from Neanderthals.
Towards a Better Understanding of Endometriosis-Related Infertility: A Review on How Endometriosis Affects Endometrial Receptivity
Authors: Shan Jing , Li Da-Jin , Wang Xiao-Qiu
Published: February 2023

Endometriosis is the most common cause of infertility. Endometrial receptivity has been suggested to contribute to infertility and poor reproductive outcomes in affected women. Even though experimental and clinical data suggest that the endometrium differs in women with endometriosis, the pathogenesis of impaired endometrial receptivity remains incomplete. Therefore, this review summarizes the potential mechanisms that affect endometrial function and contribute to implantation failure. Contemporary data regarding hormone imbalance, inflammation, and immunoregulatory dysfunction will be reviewed here. In addition, genetic, epigenetic, glycosylation, metabolism and microRNA in endometriosis-related infertility/subfertility will be summarized. We provide a brief discussion and perspectives on their future clinical implications in the diagnosis and therapy to improve endometrial function in affected women.
Computational Insights into the Allosteric Modulation of a Phthalate-Degrading Hydrolase by Distal Mutations
Authors: Xu Ran , Bao Yiqiong , Li Mengrong , Zhang Yan , Xi Lili , Guo Jingjing
Published: February 2023

Phthalate esters (PAEs) are a ubiquitous kind of environmental endocrine that disrupt chemicals, causing environmental and health issues. EstJ6 is an effective phthalate-degrading hydrolase, and its mutant with a combination of three non-conservative distal mutations has an improved activity against PAEs with unknown molecular mechanisms. Herein, we attempt to fill the significant gap between distal mutations and the activity of this enzyme using computational approaches. We found that mutations resulted in a redistribution of the enzyme’s preexisting conformational states and dynamic changes of key functional regions, especially the lid over the active site. The outward motion of the lid upon the mutations made it easier for substrates or products to enter or exit. Additionally, a stronger substrate binding affinity and conformational rearrangements of catalytic reaction-associated residues in the mutant, accompanied by the strengthened communication within the protein, could synergistically contribute to the elevated catalytic efficiency. Finally, an attempt was made to improve the thermostability of EstJ6 upon introducing a distal disulfide bond between residues A23 and A29, and the simulation results were as expected. Together, our work explored the allosteric effects caused by distal mutations, which could provide insights into the rational design of esterases for industrial applications in the future.
Combining Electrostimulation with Impedance Sensing to Promote and Track Osteogenesis within a Titanium Implant
Authors: Engel Nadja , Dau Michael , Engel Vivien , Franz Denise , Klemmstein Fabian , Thanisch Christiane , Kolb Jürgen F. , Frank Marcus , Springer Armin , Köhling Rüdiger , Bader Rainer , Frerich Bernhard , Wiesmann Nadine , Heimes Diana , Kämmerer Peer W.
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: Electrical stimulation is a promising alternative to promote bone fracture healing but with the limitation of tracking the osteogenesis progress in vivo. To overcome this issue, we present an opportunity to combine the electrical stimulation of a commercial titanium implant, which promotes osteogenesis within the fracture, with a real-time readout of the osteogenic progress by impedance sensing. This makes it possible to adjust the electrical stimulation modalities to the individual patient’s fracture healing process. (2) Methods: In detail, osteogenic differentiation of several cell types was monitored under continuous or pulsatile electrical stimulation at 0.7 V AC/20 Hz for at least seven days on a titanium implant by electric cell-substrate impedance sensing (ECIS). For control, chemical induction of osteogenic differentiation was induced. (3) Results: The most significant challenge was to discriminate impedance changes caused by proliferation events from those initiated by osteogenic differentiation. This discrimination was achieved by remodeling the impedance parameter Alpha (α), which increases over time for pulsatile electrically stimulated stem cells. Boosted α-values were accompanied by an increased formation of actin stress fibers and a reduced expression of the focal adhesion kinase in the cell periphery; morphological alterations known to occur during osteogenesis. (4) Conclusions: This work provided the basis for developing an effective fracture therapy device, which can induce osteogenesis on the one hand, and would allow us to monitor the induction process on the other hand.
Risk Factors for Long-Term Contracture Recurrence after Collagenase Injection for Dupuytren Disease: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Eckerdal David , Lauritzson Anna , Åkesson Anna , Atroshi Isam
Published: February 2023

In Dupuytren disease, little is known about the long-term outcomes of collagenase injection or risk factors for contracture recurrence. In this prospective study, 159 patients (242 fingers) with Dupuytren disease and active extension deficit (AED) ≥20° in a metacarpophalangeal (MCP) or proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint were treated with collagenase injection during a 14-month period. At 5 years, 18 patients were deceased, 2 could not be contacted, and 13 had undergone fasciectomy. The remaining 126 patients (199 treated fingers) participated in a follow-up evaluation at 52–96 (mean 65) months after injection, with physical examination (114 patients) or telephone interview (12 patients). Recurrence was defined as subsequent treatment (surgery or repeat injection) or ≥20° AED worsening in a treated joint between the 6-week and 5-year measurements. The mean AED at baseline was 42° (SD 24) for MCP joints and 31° (SD 29) for PIP joints and at 5 years 11° (SD 17) and 17° (SD 23), respectively. Recurrence occurred in 17% of MCP joints and 25% of PIP joints. Statistically significant risk factors for PIP joint contracture recurrence were greater baseline AED (odds ratio 1.04, 95% CI 1.02–1.06) and small finger treatment (OR 4.6, 95% CI 1.5–14.3), with no significant risk factors found for MCP contracture recurrence.
Physically and Chemically Crosslinked, Tannic Acid Embedded Linear PEI-Based Hydrogels and Cryogels with Natural Antibacterial and Antioxidant Properties
Authors: Sahiner Mehtap , Yilmaz Aynur Sanem , Demirci Sahin , Sahiner Nurettin
Published: February 2023

Linear polyethyleneimine (L-PEI) was obtained from the acidic hydrolysis of poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) and employed in the synthesis of physically crosslinked L-PEI hydrogel, PC-L-PEIH, chemically crosslinked L-PEI hydrogel, CC-L-PEIH, and cryogels, CC-L-PEIC. The preparation of L-PEI-based hydrogel networks was carried out in two ways: 1) by cooling the L-PEI solution from 90 °C to room temperature, and 2) by crosslinking L-PEI chains with a crosslinker, glycerol diglycidyl ether = 20 °C for CC-L-PEIC. Furthermore, a polyphenolic compound, tannic acid (TA), with superior antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties as an active biomedical functional agent, was encapsulated during the synthesis process within L-PEI-based hydrogels and cryogels, at 10% and 25% (w/w) based on the L-PEI amount. A linear and higher TA release was observed from physically crosslinked PEI-based hydrogels containing 10% and 25% TA-containing PC-L-PEI/TAH within 6 h, with 9.5 ± 05 mg/g and 60.2 ± 3.8 mg/g cumulative released amounts, respectively. A higher antioxidant activity was observed for 25% TA containing PC-L-PEI/TAH with 53.6 ± 5.3 µg/mL total phenol content and 0.48 ± 0.01 µmole Trolox equivalent/g. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of PC-L-PEIH and CC-L-PEIC networks against both E. coli (ATCC 8739) and Gram-positive B. subtilis (ATCC 6633) bacteria was determined at 5 mg/mL, whereas the MBC value of 10 mg/mL for CC-L-PEIH networks against the same bacteria was achieved.
Inflammatory Blood Signature Related to Common Psychological Comorbidity in Chronic Pain
Authors: Karshikoff Bianka , Wåhlén Karin , Åström Jenny , Lekander Mats , Holmström Linda , Wicksell Rikard K.
Published: February 2023

Chronic pain is characterized by high psychological comorbidity, and diagnoses are symptom-based due to a lack of clear pathophysiological factors and valid biomarkers. We investigate if inflammatory blood biomarker signatures are associated with pain intensity and psychological comorbidity in a mixed chronic pain population. Eighty-one patients (72% women) with chronic pain (>6 months) were included. Patient reported outcomes were collected, and blood was analyzed with the Proseek Multiplex Olink Inflammation Panel (Bioscience Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden), resulting in 77 inflammatory markers included for multivariate data analysis. Three subgroups of chronic pain patients were identified using an unsupervised principal component analysis. No difference between the subgroups was seen in pain intensity, but differences were seen in mental health and inflammatory profiles. Ten inflammatory proteins were significantly associated with anxiety and depression (using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale (GAD-7) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9): STAMBP, SIRT2, AXIN1, CASP-8, ADA, IL-7, CD40, CXCL1, CXCL5, and CD244. No markers were related to pain intensity. Fifteen proteins could differentiate between patients with moderate/high (GAD-7/PHQ-9 > 10) or mild/no (GAD-7/PHQ-9 < 10) psychological comorbidity. This study further contributes to the increasing knowledge of the importance of inflammation in chronic pain conditions and indicates that specific inflammatory proteins may be related to psychological comorbidity.
Intravascular Imaging of Atherosclerosis by Using Engineered Nanoparticles
Authors: Li Jiawen , Centurion Franco , Chen Rouyan , Gu Zi
Published: February 2023

Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, and high-risk atherosclerotic plaques can result in myocardial infarction, stroke, and/or sudden death. Various imaging and sensing techniques (e.g., ultrasound, optical coherence tomography, fluorescence, photoacoustic) have been developed for scanning inside blood vessels to provide accurate detection of high-risk atherosclerotic plaques. Nanoparticles have been utilized in intravascular imaging to enable targeted detection of high-risk plaques, to enhance image contrast, and in some applications to also provide therapeutic functions of atherosclerosis. In this paper, we review the recent progress on developing nanoparticles for intravascular imaging of atherosclerosis. We discuss the basic nanoparticle design principles, imaging modalities and instrumentations, and common targets for atherosclerosis. The review is concluded and highlighted with discussions on challenges and opportunities for bringing nanoparticles into in vivo (pre)clinical intravascular applications.
The Role of Cognition in Dishonest Behavior
Authors: Muñoz García Adrián , Gil-Gómez de Liaño Beatriz , Pascual-Ezama David
Published: February 2023

Dishonesty has received increased attention from many professionals in recent years for its relevance in many social areas such as finance and psychology, among others. Understanding the mechanisms underlying dishonesty and the channels in which dishonesty operates could enable the detection and even prevention of dishonest behavior. However, the study of dishonesty is a challenging endeavor; dishonesty is a complex behavior because it imposes a psychological and cognitive burden. The study of this burden has fostered a new research trend that focuses on cognition’s role in dishonesty. This paper reviews the theoretical aspects of how such cognitive processes modulate dishonest behavior. We will pay special attention to executive functions such as inhibitory processes, working memory, or set-shifting that may modulate the decision to be (dis)honest. We also account for some frameworks in cognitive and social psychology that may help understand dishonesty, such as the Theory of Mind, the role of creative processes, and discourse analyses within language studies. Finally, we will discuss some specific cognitive-based models that integrate cognitive mechanisms to explain dishonesty. We show that cognition and dishonest behavior are firmly related and that there are several important milestones to reach in the future to advance the understanding of dishonesty in our society.
Modulation Effects of Repeated Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation at the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex: A Pulsed Continuous Arterial Spin Labeling Study
Authors: Sacca Valeria , Maleki Nasim , Wen Ya , Hodges Sierra , Kong Jian
Published: February 2023

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a promising non-invasive method to modulate brain excitability. The aim of this study was to better understand the cerebral blood flow (CBF) changes during and after repeated tDCS at the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) in healthy participants using pulsed continuous arterial spin labeling (pCASL). Elucidating CBF changes associated with repeated tDCS may shed light on the understanding of the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of tDCS. tDCS was applied for three consecutive days for 20 min at 2 mA, and MRI scans were performed on day 1 and 3. During anodal tDCS, increased CBF was detected in the bilateral thalamus on day 1 and 3 (12% on day 1 and of 14% on day 3) and in the insula on day 1 (12%). After anodal tDCS on day 1, increased CBF was detected in the cerebellum and occipital lobe (11.8%), while both cathodal and sham tDCS were associated with increased CBF in the insula (11% and 10%, respectively). Moreover, anodal tDCS led to increased CBF in the lateral prefrontal cortex and midcingulate cortex in comparison to the sham. These findings suggest that tDCS can modulate the CBF and different tDCS modes may lead to different effects.
Brexpiprazole—Pharmacologic Properties and Use in Schizophrenia and Mood Disorders
Authors: Siwek Marcin , Wojtasik-Bakalarz Krzysztof , Krupa Anna Julia , Chrobak Adrian Andrzej
Published: February 2023

In 2002, the first III generation antipsychotic drug was registered—aripiprazole. Its partial dopaminergic agonism underlies its unique mechanism of action and the potentially beneficial influence on the positive, negative, or cognitive symptoms. Due to its relatively high intrinsic activity, the drug could often cause agitation, anxiety, or akathisia. For this reason, efforts were made to develop a drug which would retain the positive favorable actions of aripiprazole but present a more advantageous clinical profile. This turned out to be brexpiprazole, which was registered in 2015. Its pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profile (similarly to the other most recent antipsychotics, i.e., lurasidone or cariprazine) shows promise of increasing the effectiveness of schizophrenia treatment in the dimensions in which the previous antipsychotics were not sufficiently effective, including negative, depressive, or cognitive symptoms. Like other new antipsychotics, it can also be useful in the treatment of mood disorders, for instance drug-resistant depression. Previous reviews focused on the use of brexpiprazole in specific diagnostic groups. The aim of this article is to provide the readers with an overview of data on the mechanism of action, clinical effectiveness in all studied diagnostic groups, as well as potential drug–food interactions, and the safety of brexpiprazole.
Accessible Dyslexia Detection with Real-Time Reading Feedback through Robust Interpretable Eye-Tracking Features
Authors: Vajs Ivan , Papić Tamara , Ković Vanja , Savić Andrej M. , Janković Milica M.
Published: February 2023

Developing reliable, quantifiable, and accessible metrics for dyslexia diagnosis and tracking represents an important goal, considering the widespread nature of dyslexia and its negative impact on education and quality of life. In this study, we observe eye-tracking data from 15 dyslexic and 15 neurotypical Serbian school-age children who read text segments presented on different color configurations. Two new eye-tracking features were introduced that quantify the amount of spatial complexity of the subject’s gaze through time and inherently provide information regarding the locations in the text in which the subject struggled the most. The features were extracted from the raw eye-tracking data (x, y coordinates), from the original data gathered at 60 Hz, and from the downsampled data at 30 Hz, examining the compatibility of features with low-cost or custom-made eye-trackers. The features were used as inputs to machine learning algorithms, and the best-obtained accuracy was 88.9% for 60 Hz and 87.8% for 30 Hz. The features were also used to analyze the influence of background/overlay color on the quality of reading, and it was shown that the introduced features separate the dyslexic and control groups regardless of the background/overlay color. The colors can, however, influence each subject differently, which implies that an individualistic approach would be necessary to obtain the best therapeutic results. The performed study shows promise in dyslexia detection and evaluation, as the proposed features can be implemented in real time as feedback during reading and show effectiveness at detecting dyslexia with data obtained using a lower sampling rate.
Contribution of Steel Fiber to the Mechanical Property Improvement of C80 Concrete Produced with a High Amount of Artificial Sand Powder
Authors: Xie Qingqing , Xuan Dongxing , Shen Bo , Ma Kejian
Published: February 2023

Due to the high price of river sand, its shortage and unsustainable extraction from the environment, artificial sand (AS) has been promoted as a fine aggregate for producing concrete. However, it has been acknowledged that a high content of limestone powder (LP), up to 15 wt.%, as a by-product in AS coexists and it has an adverse impact on the mechanical properties of concrete. To compensate for the performance loss of C80 concrete with a high LP content to the applications of concrete on a large scale, this study evaluates the contribution of steel fiber content to the performance improvement of concrete by means of a developed statistical method. Experimental results show that when increasing the LP in concrete over 5%, it can influence axial compression, flexural intensity, splitting tension and the modulus of elasticity, in particular, presenting an obvious decrease in axial compressive intensity, splitting tension and modulus of elasticity. Incorporating steel fibers in such concrete prepared with a high amount of artificial sand powder is a way to compensate for its performance loss. Referring to the experimental results and probability theory, the probability density function of the characteristic value of mechanical characteristic of one type of concrete and the difference between the characteristic values of mechanical characteristics of any two concretes were developed to establish a scientific criterion that can be used to compare the sizes of any two characteristic probability values, which is superior to the comparative approach of arithmetic averages in publications. By adopting this method, the high-strength concrete with a high LP and steel fiber content could be applied in engineering practices from the point of view of its mechanical properties. Meanwhile, the study provides an evaluation method for other scientific research on the size comparison of any two stochastic physical variables.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Steel- and GFRP-Reinforced Concrete Beams Subject to Fire Exposure
Authors: Thongchom Chanachai , Bui Linh Van Hong , Poonpan Natthanuch , Phudtisarigorn Natcha , Nguyen Phuoc Trong , Keawsawasvong Suraparb , Mousa Saeed
Published: February 2023

This study investigates the behavior of three concrete beams reinforced with steel and GFRP bars under fire exposure. The fire tests of three beams were conducted including one control steel-reinforced concrete (RC) beam and two GFRP-RC beams. The beams were exposed to fire according to the standard fire curve ISO 834 for 3 h. The investigation parameters included the reinforcement types (i.e., steel and GFRP bars) and diameter of GFRP bars. Based on the experimental results, during fire exposure, the deflection rate of the steel-RC beam was lower than the ones reinforced with GFRP bars. The critical temperatures measured at steel and GFRP bars in the steel-RC and GFRP-RC beams were 593 °C and 300–330 °C, respectively along with the fire durations of 83 and 33–36.4 min, respectively. The different GFRP bar sizes did not affect the fire resistance process. The steel-RC beam had greater fire resistance than the GFRP-RC beams. All test specimens had a fire resistance time lower than two hours. In addition, the 2D simplified finite element method (FEM) using commercial software ANSYS was performed to predict the thermal response of the beam section. Compared with experimental results, the FE model can reasonably predict the thermal responses of the beam sections.
Ultra-High-Performance Fibre-Reinforced Concrete for Rehabilitation and Strengthening of Concrete Structures: A Suitability Assessment
Authors: Bandara Sahan , Wijesundara Kushan , Rajeev Pat
Published: February 2023

Ultra-high-performance fibre-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) is a cementitious composite which contains fibres. UHPFRC has emerged as an effective structural retrofitting material due to its superior mechanical properties. In addition, UHPFRC has outstanding durability, ductility and workability; a low permeability; and a high abrasion and fire resistance. These improved characteristics of UHPFRC are obtained by reducing the content of free water in the concrete matrix (leading to less air voids), introducing high strength ductile steel fibres, replacing coarse aggregates with well graded fine aggregates and introducing highly active pozzolanic materials. UHPFRC has excellent bonding with normal strength concrete and it eliminates the issue of debonding which is common in other retrofitting techniques employing fibre-reinforced polymers or externally bonded steel plates. Therefore, considering various aspects, UHPFRC-based structural retrofitting possesses a number of advantages. This paper presents a review of previous studies employing UHPFRC for structural retrofitting applications, highlighting its advantages, limitations and challenges. Aspects of flexural strengthening, combined axial and flexural strengthening, shear strengthening, impact resistance and torsional strengthening are considered for this review. Altogether, the paper aims to enhance the awareness of UHPFRC for structural retrofitting as a step forward towards effective field applications and to outline the potential future directions of research.
How Does Contractual Flexibility Affect a Contractor’s Opportunistic Behavior? Roles of Justice Perception and Communication Quality
Authors: Zhang Lianying , Xi Guannan
Published: February 2023

Owing to the natural complexity and uncertainty of construction projects, more and more contracts tend to add flexibility to be able to deal with emergencies, thus promoting the smooth implementation of projects. Contractual flexibility has a certain impact on contractors’ opportunistic behavior, but because of the lack of relevant empirical studies, its influencing mechanism and conclusions have been controversial. The purpose of this paper is to reveal whether and how contractual flexibility restrains a contractor’s opportunistic behavior. In this paper, data are collected from 290 responses to an opinion questionnaire survey and are analyzed with partial-least-squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results indicate that contractual flexibility can restrain a contractor’s opportunistic behavior, and the relationships are mediated by a contractor’s interorganizational justice perceptions. Meanwhile, the communication quality can strengthen the effect of contractual flexibility on interorganizational justice perceptions and opportunistic behavior. The research conclusions of this paper not only deepen scholars’ understanding of contractual flexibility in the field of construction projects but also provide a solid theoretical basis for future in-depth research. The conclusions also provide some practical suggestions for managers of construction projects, emphasizing the important role of contractual flexibility, interorganizational justice perception, and communication quality in restraining contractors’ opportunistic behavior.
An Explorative Study of the Political, Economic, and Social Factors Influencing the Development of Senior Housing: A Case Study of Hong Kong
Authors: Ji Ting-Ting , Wei Hsi-Hsien , Sun Yi , Seo JoonOh , Chen Jieh-Haur
Published: February 2023

Senior housing with age-friendly design and elderly care services contributes to the health and well-being of older people. Previous research has evidenced that the immediate environment factors of senior housing, such as the design of housing features and facilities, have a direct bearing on the satisfaction and quality of life of older people. However, external environment factors, such as political, economic, and social ones that affect key stakeholders’ behaviors in senior housing development, are relatively under-researched. Accordingly, this study aimed to explore the external environmental factors influencing the development of senior housing. Taking Hong Kong as case study, this study first commenced with a systematic review to identify the factors in political, economic, and social domains from global evidence. Following this, we interviewed local experts from academia, industry, and government to solicit their opinions on the relative importance of these factors. We then determined the factor rankings using the analytical hierarchy process method. The results showed that local experts perceived economic factors as the most critical ones in influencing senior housing development in Hong Kong, including land costs, funding from financial institutions, and government incentives. If policymakers tend to promote senior housing in densely populated cities like Hong Kong, the policies should be attractive for housing developers, such as land premium concessions and innovative financial channels for supporting the long-term development of senior housing.
Biometric Analysis in Design Cognition Studies: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Yu Rongrong , Schubert Gabrielle , Gu Ning
Published: February 2023

This study presents a systematic literature review on the utilisation of biometric analyses within the research area of design cognition. Design is a critical phase of many industries including architecture and construction, industrial design, engineering design, and many others. The development of design theories and methodologies to further understanding of designers’ cognitive design processes is thereby crucial. Traditional methods for design studies such as protocol analysis are prone to subjective factors and rely upon designers’ externalisations of their own design intentions, which typically makes such results difficult to validate. Design neuroscience has become an emerging area of research in recent years. Utilising biometric measurements such as electroencephalography (EEG), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and eye-tracking, more objective data can be obtained about the physiological responses of designers during their performing of design activities, and such empirical data can then be analysed without relying on designers to self-report. Recent years have witnessed an increasing number of studies in that research area. However, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding about current design studies that utilise biometric analysis as well as the application and effectiveness of the analysis approach. Therefore, this research utilised a systematic literature review method, reviewing the past decade’s biometric analysis studies related to design cognition, aiming to bridge the research gap areas as informed by the systematic review. The findings of this study suggest that this research area is still at an early stage, and there has accordingly been a trend of increasing publications within the field. Most design neuroscience studies have investigated the common areas such as design problem solving, design creativity, design thinking strategies, cognitive load and visual attention. Further research is especially needed in the following: (i) design neuroscience studies for various digital design environments; (ii) practical applications of biometric analysis design studies to both design practice and design education; and (iii) further advancement of biometric techniques applicable to future design studies. The results of this study contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the existing knowledge and research about the application of biometric analysis to design cognition studies; this is potentially beneficial to future design research and education, and it leads to more advanced application of design cognition studies.
Highly Selective Detection of Hydrogen Sulfide by Simple Cu-CNTs Nanocomposites
Authors: Musayeva Nahida , Khalilova Hadiya , Izzatov Bakhtiyar , Trevisi Giovanna , Ahmadova Shahla , Alizada Muhammad
Published: February 2023

The presented work is devoted to the preparation of nanocomposites based on multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and copper (Cu) nanoparticles by a simple chemical method, and to study their sensing properties to hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas. The Cu decorated multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs/Cu) were prepared by the deposition of very thin Cu layers on the pristine and functionalized multiwall carbon nanotubes (f-MWCNTs) using both physical (electron beam evaporation (EBE)) and chemical (electrochemical deposition) methods. MWCNTs/Cu prepared in the two above-mentioned ways, their sensing properties were studied, and the results were comparatively analyzed. The effect of the chemical functionalization of MWCNTs by oxygen-containing groups on the sensing properties of these f-MWCNT/Cu nanocomposites has been investigated. All the prepared sensors demonstrated high sensitivity and selectivity to H2S in the air at room temperature. The f-MWCNT/Cu structure obtained by the chemical method demonstrated about 5 times (~400%) higher sensitivity (∆R/R0) to H2S gas compared to the similar structure obtained by the physical method. The temperature effect on sensory characteristics (response and self-recovery time) of the f-MWCNTs/Cu structure was also studied.