bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamical Analyses of a Supercell Tornado in Eastern China Based on a Real-Data Simulation
Authors: Wang Shiqi , Min Jinzhong
Published: May 2023

Tornadoes are extremely destructive natural disasters, and East China has become a high-incidence area for tornadoes in China in recent years. On 7 July 2013, an EF2-intensity tornado occurred in Gaoyou County, Jiangsu Province in eastern China, within a supercell storm near a Meiyu frontal system. To investigate the dynamical process of the tornado, a numerical simulation was performed using four one-way nested grids within the Advanced Regional Prediction System (ARPS). Data from a nearby operational S-band Doppler radar are assimilated using a 4D ensemble Kalman filter (4DEnKF) at 5 min intervals. Forecasts are run with a nested 50 m grid, capturing the tornado embedded within the supercell storm with a reasonable agreement with observations. The tornadogenesis processes within the simulation results are analyzed in detail, including the three-dimensional evolution of the tornado vortex. It is found that a cold surge within the rear flank downdraft region plays a key role in instigating tornadogenesis when the leading edge of the cold surge approaches a near-ground convergence center located underneath the main updraft, and the enhancement of the convergence center caused by the descending of the low-level mesocyclone is the direct cause of the rapid increase in tornado vorticity. Backward trajectories are calculated based on model output, and the origins of the parcels feeding the intensifying tornado vortex are identified. It is found that parcels from the mid-level of the rear flank downdraft region follow the cold surge, descending to the ground under the influence of the downdraft in the cold surge, and then entering the convergence center, merging into the core of the tornado and being lifted up. Vertical profiles of the mass and vorticity fluxes into the core of the tornado vortex are examined, and it is found that the near-ground airflow contributes significantly to the growth of the tornado vorticity, with the contribution increasing as it gets closer to the ground.
Influence of Lithium-Ion-Battery Equivalent Circuit Model Parameter Dependencies and Architectures on the Predicted Heat Generation in Real-Life Drive Cycles
Authors: Auch Marcus , Kuthada Timo , Giese Sascha , Wagner Andreas
Published: May 2023

This study investigates the influence of the considered Electric Equivalent Circuit Model (ECM) parameter dependencies and architectures on the predicted heat generation rate by using the Bernardi equation. For this purpose, the whole workflow, from the cell characterization tests to the cell parameter identification and finally validation studies, is examined on a cylindrical 5 Ah LG217000 Lithium-Ion-Battery (LIB) with a nickel manganese cobalt chemistry. Additionally, different test procedures are compared with respect to their result quality. For the parameter identification, a Matlab tool is developed enabling the user to generate all necessary ECMs in one run. The accuracy of the developed ECMs is evaluated by comparing voltage prediction of the experimental and simulation results for the highly dynamic World harmonized Light vehicle Test Cycle (WLTC) at different states of charges (SOCs) and ambient temperatures. The results show that parameter dependencies such as hysteresis and current are neglectable, if only the voltage results are compared. Considering the heat generation prediction, however, the neglection can result in mispredictions of up to 9% (current) or 22% (hysteresis) and hence should not be neglected. Concluding the voltage and heat generation results, this study recommends using a Dual Polarization (DP) or Thevenin ECM considering all parameter dependencies except for the charge/discharge current dependency for thermal modeling of LIBs.
Hybrid Ionically Covalently Cross-Linked Network Binder for High-Performance Silicon Anodes in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Zeng Xuejian , Yue Hongyan , Wu Jina , Chen Chao , Liu Lichun
Published: May 2023

Silicon has gained considerable attention as an anode material in lithium-ion batteries due to its high theoretical capacity. However, the significant volume changes that occur during lithiation/delithiation processes often result in poor cycling stability of silicon anodes. In this study, a hybrid ionically covalently cross-linked network binder carboxymethylcellulose-hyperbranched polyethyleneimine (CMC-HBPEI) is successfully constructed by “switching” ionic bonds and partially “converting” them to covalent bonds to buffer the volume variation of silicon anodes. In this hybrid cross-linked network, the covalently cross-linked network is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the anode, while the ionically cross-linked network utilizes the bonding reversibility to sustainably dissipative the mechanical stress and self-heal the structural breakages generated from the lithiation expansion of silicon. By changing the drying temperature of the anode, the ratio of covalent and ionic bonds in the hybrid cross-linked network can be adjusted to balance the mechanical stability and bonding reversibility of the CMC-HBPEI binder. Even after 300 cycles of charging/discharging under a current density of 500 mAg−1, the specific capacity of the optimized Si/CMC-HBPEI anode remains at 1545 mAhg−1.
Battery Performance, Ageing, Reliability and Safety
Authors: Venet Pascal
Published: May 2023

The development of portable equipment, electric or electrified vehicles and renewable energy is associated with the development of efficient Energy Storage Systems (ESS), such as batteries or supercapacitors [...]
Do Consumers Consider the Healthfulness of Wine in Republic of Korea?
Authors: Choi Jinkyung , Zhao Jinlin , Yang Jiin
Published: May 2023

Purpose: Wine is an alcoholic beverage considered to have health benefits when consumed in moderation. Studies have investigated the healthfulness of wine via various approaches; however, given that wine consumption behavior is evolving, fresh data are needed. There is a paucity of evidence on the perceived mental health benefits of wine; hence, this study examined consumers’ perceptions of wine healthfulness separately for each physical and mental health benefit and compared them with wine consumption behaviors. Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative data collection method was used. The questionnaires were given to participants in South Korea who had consumed wine in the six months before the survey. A total of 304 responses were collected for further analysis. A paired t-test, ANOVA, and descriptive analysis were used to analyze the data. Findings: This study found that respondents perceived higher mental health benefits than physical health benefits from wine consumption. Demographic characteristics showed significant differences in the mental or physical health benefits of wine. Consumers who believed in the physical health benefits of wine preferred white wine over red wine; however, consumers who believed in the mental health benefits of wine had no preferences. Originality: This study suggests that segmented marketing tools are needed due to the various characteristics of wine consumers. In addition, to encourage a healthy drinking environment, marketing should focus on moderation for both the wine industry and consumers. Furthermore, consumers’ consideration of the mental health benefits of wine consumption cannot be underestimated compared to the physical health benefits of wine consumption; however, wine is also regarded as an alcoholic beverage that needs to be consumed with consideration of health concerns in various restrictions.
Refined Techniques for Enabling Long-Term Cryo-Repository Using Vitrification and Laser Warming
Authors: Lin Chiahsin , Hsieh Wen-Chung , Loeslakwiboon Kanokpron , Huang Cheng-Liang , Chen Ting-Chun , Tsai Sujune
Published: May 2023

Vitrification and ultrarapid laser warming are crucial for the cryopreservation of animal embryos, oocytes, and other cells of medicinal, genetic, and agricultural value. In the present study, we focused on alignment and bonding techniques for a special cryojig that combines a jig tool and jig holder into one piece. This novel cryojig was used to obtain a high laser accuracy of 95% and a successful rewarming rate of 62%. The experimental results indicated that our refined device improved laser accuracy in the warming process after long-term cryo-storage through vitrification. We anticipate that our findings will lead to cryobanking applications that use vitrification and laser nanowarming to preserve cells and tissues from a wide range of species.
Observation of Histone H2AX Phosphorylation by Radiation-Induced Bystander Response Using Titanium Characteristic X-ray Microbeam
Authors: Tomita Masanori , Torigata Masaya , Ohchi Tadayuki , Ito Atsushi
Published: May 2023

Radiation-induced bystander response (RIBR) is a response induced in non-irradiated cells that receive bystander signals from directly irradiated cells. X-ray microbeams are useful tools for elucidating the mechanisms underlying RIBR. However, previous X-ray microbeams used low-energy soft X-rays with higher biological effects, such as aluminum characteristic X-rays, and the difference from conventional X-rays and γ-rays has often been discussed. The microbeam X-ray cell irradiation system at the Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry has been upgraded to generate higher energy titanium characteristic X-rays (TiK X-rays), which have a longer penetration distance sufficient to irradiate 3D cultured tissues. Using this system, we irradiated the nuclei of HeLa cells with high precision and found that the pan-nuclear induction of phosphorylated histone H2AX on serine 139 (γ-H2AX) in the non-irradiated cells increased 180 and 360 min after irradiation. We established a new method to quantitatively evaluate bystander cells, using the fluorescence intensity of γ-H2AX as an indicator. The percentage of bystander cells increased significantly to 23.2% ± 3.2% and 29.3% ± 3.5% at 180 and 360 min after irradiation, respectively. Our irradiation system and the obtained results may be useful for studies of cell competition as well as non-targeted effects.
An Overview of Two Old Friends Associated with Platelet Redox Signaling, the Protein Disulfide Isomerase and NADPH Oxidase
Authors: Trostchansky Andrés , Alarcon Marcelo
Published: May 2023

Oxidative stress participates at the baseline of different non-communicable pathologies such as cardiovascular diseases. Excessive formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), above the signaling levels necessary for the correct function of organelles and cells, may contribute to the non-desired effects of oxidative stress. Platelets play a relevant role in arterial thrombosis, by aggregation triggered by different agonists, where excessive ROS formation induces mitochondrial dysfunction and stimulate platelet activation and aggregation. Platelet is both a source and a target of ROS, thus we aim to analyze both the platelet enzymes responsible for ROS generation and their involvement in intracellular signal transduction pathways. Among the proteins involved in these processes are Protein Disulphide Isomerase (PDI) and NADPH oxidase (NOX) isoforms. By using bioinformatic tools and information from available databases, a complete bioinformatic analysis of the role and interactions of PDI and NOX in platelets, as well as the signal transduction pathways involved in their effects was performed. We focused the study on analyzing whether these proteins collaborate to control platelet function. The data presented in the current manuscript support the role that PDI and NOX play on activation pathways necessary for platelet activation and aggregation, as well as on the platelet signaling imbalance produced by ROS production. Our data could be used to design specific enzyme inhibitors or a dual inhibition for these enzymes with an antiplatelet effect to design promising treatments for diseases involving platelet dysfunction.
Ribosomal Protein uS5 and Friends: Protein–Protein Interactions Involved in Ribosome Assembly and Beyond
Authors: Landry-Voyer Anne-Marie , Mir Hassani Zabih , Avino Mariano , Bachand François
Published: May 2023

Ribosomal proteins are fundamental components of the ribosomes in all living cells. The ribosomal protein uS5 (Rps2) is a stable component of the small ribosomal subunit within all three domains of life. In addition to its interactions with proximal ribosomal proteins and rRNA inside the ribosome, uS5 has a surprisingly complex network of evolutionarily conserved non-ribosome-associated proteins. In this review, we focus on a set of four conserved uS5-associated proteins: the protein arginine methyltransferase 3 (PRMT3), the programmed cell death 2 (PDCD2) and its PDCD2-like (PDCD2L) paralog, and the zinc finger protein, ZNF277. We discuss recent work that presents PDCD2 and homologs as a dedicated uS5 chaperone and PDCD2L as a potential adaptor protein for the nuclear export of pre-40S subunits. Although the functional significance of the PRMT3–uS5 and ZNF277–uS5 interactions remain elusive, we reflect on the potential roles of uS5 arginine methylation by PRMT3 and on data indicating that ZNF277 and PRMT3 compete for uS5 binding. Together, these discussions highlight the complex and conserved regulatory network responsible for monitoring the availability and the folding of uS5 for the formation of 40S ribosomal subunits and/or the role of uS5 in potential extra-ribosomal functions.
(Patho)Physiology of Glycosylphosphatidylinositol-Anchored Proteins I: Localization at Plasma Membranes and Extracellular Compartments
Authors: Müller Günter A. , Müller Timo D.
Published: May 2023

Glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored proteins (APs) are anchored at the outer leaflet of plasma membranes (PMs) of all eukaryotic organisms studied so far by covalent linkage to a highly conserved glycolipid rather than a transmembrane domain. Since their first description, experimental data have been accumulating for the capability of GPI-APs to be released from PMs into the surrounding milieu. It became evident that this release results in distinct arrangements of GPI-APs which are compatible with the aqueous milieu upon loss of their GPI anchor by (proteolytic or lipolytic) cleavage or in the course of shielding of the full-length GPI anchor by incorporation into extracellular vesicles, lipoprotein-like particles and (lyso)phospholipid- and cholesterol-harboring micelle-like complexes or by association with GPI-binding proteins or/and other full-length GPI-APs. In mammalian organisms, the (patho)physiological roles of the released GPI-APs in the extracellular environment, such as blood and tissue cells, depend on the molecular mechanisms of their release as well as the cell types and tissues involved, and are controlled by their removal from circulation. This is accomplished by endocytic uptake by liver cells and/or degradation by GPI-specific phospholipase D in order to bypass potential unwanted effects of the released GPI-APs or their transfer from the releasing donor to acceptor cells (which will be reviewed in a forthcoming manuscript).
Regulation of Cancer Stem Cells and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition by CTNNAL1 in Lung Cancer and Glioblastoma
Authors: Kahm Yeon-Jee , Jung Uhee , Kim Rae-Kwon
Published: May 2023

CTNNAL1 is a protein known to be involved in cell–cell adhesion and cell adhesion. Alterations in the expression or function of CTNNAL1 have been reported to contribute to the development and progression of various types of cancer. In breast cancer, CTNNAL1 has been reported as a cancer suppressor gene, and in melanoma and lung cancer, it has been reported as a cancer driver gene. However, due to a lack of research, its function remains unclear. In this study, it is shown that CTNNAL1 regulates cancer stem cells (CSCs) in lung cancer and glioblastoma and modulates their migration and invasion abilities. CSCs are known to play an important role in the malignant transformation of cancer. They have the ability to resist chemotherapeutic drugs and irradiation, which is a known obstacle to cancer treatment. We found that CTNNAL1 regulates the ability to resist irradiation. In addition, we observed that CTNNAL1 regulates the ability of cells to migrate and invade, a key feature of the epithelial to mesenchymal transition phenomenon associated with cancer metastasis. CTNNAL1 was also involved in the secretion of C–C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), one of the chemokines. CCL2 plays a role in the recruitment of immune cells to the tumor microenvironment, but in cancer, it is known to influence malignancy and metastasis. CTNNAL1 may be a novel target for treating lung CSCs and glioma stem cells and may be used as a marker of malignancy.
Neurophysiological Markers of Premotor–Motor Network Plasticity Predict Motor Performance in Young and Older Adults
Authors: Turrini Sonia , Bevacqua Naomi , Cataneo Antonio , Chiappini Emilio , Fiori Francesca , Battaglia Simone , Romei Vincenzo , Avenanti Alessio
Published: May 2023

Aging is commonly associated with a decline in motor control and neural plasticity. Tuning cortico–cortical interactions between premotor and motor areas is essential for controlling fine manual movements. However, whether plasticity in premotor–motor circuits predicts hand motor abilities in young and elderly humans remains unclear. Here, we administered transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) over the ventral premotor cortex (PMv) and primary motor cortex (M1) using the cortico–cortical paired-associative stimulation (ccPAS) protocol to manipulate the strength of PMv-to-M1 connectivity in 14 young and 14 elderly healthy adults. We assessed changes in motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) during ccPAS as an index of PMv-M1 network plasticity. We tested whether the magnitude of MEP changes might predict interindividual differences in performance in two motor tasks that rely on premotor-motor circuits, i.e., the nine-hole pegboard test and a choice reaction task. Results show lower motor performance and decreased PMv-M1 network plasticity in elderly adults. Critically, the slope of MEP changes during ccPAS accurately predicted performance at the two tasks across age groups, with larger slopes (i.e., MEP increase) predicting better motor performance at baseline in both young and elderly participants. These findings suggest that physiological indices of PMv-M1 plasticity could provide a neurophysiological marker of fine motor control across age-groups.
Current Knowledge and Prospects for Renal Hemangioblastoma and Renal Cell Carcinoma with Hemangioblastoma-like Features
Authors: Kojima Fumiyoshi , Musangile Fidele Y. , Matsuzaki Ibu , Yorita Kenji , Kuroda Naoto , Nagashima Yoji , Murata Shin-ichi
Published: May 2023

Tumors exhibiting histopathological findings similar to those of hemangioblastoma of the central nervous system (CNS-HB) rarely develop in the kidneys. Currently, renal hemangioblastoma (RHB) is considered analogous to CNS-HB; however, they differ in gross appearance, as well as immunohistochemical and molecular findings. In contrast, some renal cell carcinomas reportedly comprise distinct, clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CCRCC)- and hemangioblastoma (HB)-like areas. Initially, renal cell carcinomas with HB-like features (RCC-HBs) were considered a morphological variant of CCRCC owing to their diverse histological findings. However, the immunohistochemical and molecular findings of RCC-HBs suggest that RCC-HB is distinct from CCRCC. Additionally, one of the RCC-HBs had a focal leiomyomatous stroma and TSC2 variant, suggesting that RCC-HB and RCC with fibromyomatous stroma (RCC-FMS) might belong to the same disease entity. Therefore, we comprehensively reviewed the clinical, pathological, and molecular features of RHB, RCC-HB, and the related tumors and discussed the similarities, differences, and relationships between them. We believe that our review would serve as a foundation for further investigation on elucidating the relationship between CNS-HB, RHB, RCC-HB, and RCC-FMS.
Targeting of microRNA-22 Suppresses Tumor Spread in a Mouse Model of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Panella Riccardo , Cotton Cody A. , Maymi Valerie A. , Best Sachem , Berry Kelsey E. , Lee Samuel , Batalini Felipe , Vlachos Ioannis S. , Clohessy John G. , Kauppinen Sakari , Paolo Pandolfi Pier
Published: May 2023

microRNA-22 (miR-22) is an oncogenic miRNA whose up-regulation promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), tumor invasion, and metastasis in hormone-responsive breast cancer. Here we show that miR-22 plays a key role in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) by promoting EMT and aggressiveness in 2D and 3D cell models and a mouse xenograft model of human TNBC, respectively. Furthermore, we report that miR-22 inhibition using an LNA-modified antimiR-22 compound is effective in reducing EMT both in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, pharmacologic inhibition of miR-22 suppressed metastatic spread and markedly prolonged survival in mouse xenograft models of metastatic TNBC highlighting the potential of miR-22 silencing as a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of TNBC.
Terminalia chebula-Assisted Silver Nanoparticles: Biological Potential, Synthesis, Characterization, and Ecotoxicity
Authors: Tharani Munusamy , Rajeshkumar Shanmugam , Al-Ghanim Khalid A. , Nicoletti Marcello , Sachivkina Nadezhda , Govindarajan Marimuthu
Published: May 2023

In the current research, an aqueous extract of Terminalia chebula fruit was used to produce silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) in a sustainable manner. UV-visible spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to characterize the synthesized nanoparticles. Synthesized Ag NPs were detected since their greatest absorption peak was seen at 460 nm. The synthesized Ag NPs were spherical and had an average size of about 50 nm, with agglomerated structures, as shown via SEM and TEM analyses. The biological activities of the synthesized Ag NPs were evaluated in terms of their antibacterial and antioxidant properties, as well as protein leakage and time-kill kinetics assays. The results suggest that the green synthesized Ag NPs possess significant antibacterial and antioxidant activities, making them a promising candidate for therapeutic applications. Furthermore, the study also evaluated the potential toxicological effects of the Ag NPs using zebrafish embryos as a model organism. The findings indicate that the synthesized Ag NPs did not induce any significant toxic effects on zebrafish embryos, further supporting their potential as therapeutic agents. In conclusion, the environmentally friendly production of Ag NPs using the extract from T. chebula is a promising strategy for discovering novel therapeutic agents with prospective uses in biomedicine.
New Opportunities for Preoperative Diagnosis of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Lukyanov Sergei A. , Sergiyko Sergei V. , Titov Sergei E. , Beltsevich Dmitry G. , Veryaskina Yulia A. , Vanushko Vladimir E. , Urusova Liliya S. , Mikheenkov Alexander A. , Kozorezova Evgeniya S. , Vorobyov Sergey L. , Sleptsov Ilya V.
Published: May 2023

The preoperative diagnostics of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), including the measuring of the blood calcitonin level, has a number of limitations. Particular focus has recently been placed on the role of miRNAs in the development of various malignant tumors; a comparative analysis of accuracy of the existing methods for MTC diagnosis with a novel diagnosis method, evaluation of the miRNA-375 expression level, was performed in this study. The expression level of miRNA-375 in cytology samples from 555 patients with the known histological diagnosis, including 41 patients with confirmed postoperative diagnosis of MTC, was assessed. The diagnostic parameters of the basal calcitonin level, calcitonin in wash-out fluid from the FNAB needle, and miRNA-375 were compared. An assessment of the miRNA-375 expression level made it possible to detect all the MTC samples with a 100% accuracy among all the 555 cytology specimens, as well as in non-informative FNAB specimens, and specimens from the ipsilateral thyroid lobe. Parameters such as sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 100%. The miRNA-375 level, unlike calcitonin, does not correlate with tumor volume, so it does not have the so-called “gray zone”. An assessment of the miRNA-375 expression allows one to accurately distinguish MTC from other malignant and benign thyroid tumors.
Acute Kidney Injury in Kidney Transplant Patients in Intensive Care Unit: From Pathogenesis to Clinical Management
Authors: Fiorentino Marco , Bagagli Francesca , Deleonardis Annamaria , Stasi Alessandra , Franzin Rossana , Conserva Francesca , Infante Barbara , Stallone Giovanni , Pontrelli Paola , Gesualdo Loreto
Published: May 2023

Kidney transplantation is the first-choice treatment for end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) are at higher risk of experiencing a life-threatening event requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission, mainly in the late post-transplant period (more than 6 months after transplantation). Urosepsis and bloodstream infections account for almost half of ICU admissions in this population; in addition, potential side effects related to immunosuppressive treatment should be accounted for cytotoxic and ischemic changes induced by calcineurin inhibitor (CNI), sirolimus/CNI-induced thrombotic microangiopathy and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. Throughout the ICU stay, Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) incidence is common and ranges from 10% to 80%, and up to 40% will require renal replacement therapy. In-hospital mortality can reach 30% and correlates with acute illness severity and admission diagnosis. Graft survival is subordinated to baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), clinical presentation, disease severity and potential drug nephrotoxicity. The present review aims to define the impact of AKI events on short- and long-term outcomes in KTRs, focusing on the epidemiologic data regarding AKI incidence in this subpopulation; the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying AKI development and potential AKI biomarkers in kidney transplantation, graft and patients’ outcomes; the current diagnostic work up and management of AKI; and the modulation of immunosuppression in ICU-admitted KTRs.
An Update on the Use of Natural Pigments and Pigment Nanoparticle Adducts for Metal Detection Based on Colour Response
Authors: Mulyaningsih Raspati D. , Pratiwi Rimadani , Hasanah Aliya N.
Published: May 2023

Natural pigments occur in plants as secondary metabolites and have been used as safe colourants in food. Studies have reported that their unstable colour intensity might be related to metal ion interaction, which leads to the formation of metal–pigment complexes. This underlines the need for further investigations on the use of natural pigments in metal detection using colorimetric methods, since metals are important elements and can be hazardous when present in large amounts. This review aimed to discuss the use of natural pigments (mainly betalains, anthocyanins, curcuminoids, carotenoids, and chlorophyll) as reagents for portable metal detection based on their limits of detection, to determine which pigment is best for certain metals. Colorimetric-related articles over the last decade were gathered, including those involving methodological modifications, sensor developments, and a general overview. When considering sensitivity and portability, the results revealed that betalains are best applied for copper, using a smartphone-assisted sensor; curcuminoids are best applied for lead, using a curcumin nanofiber; and anthocyanin is best applied for mercury, using anthocyanin hydrogel. This provides a new perspective on the use of colour instability for the detection of metals with modern sensor developments. In addition, a coloured sheet representing metal concentrations may be useful as a standard to support on-site detection with trials on masking agents to improve selectivity.
Oscillatory-Flow PCR Microfluidic Chip Driven by Low Speed Biaxial Centrifugation
Authors: Fan Yunlong , Dai Rongji , Lu Shuyu , Liu Xinyu , Zhou Taiyan , Yang Chunhua , Hu Xiaoming , Lv Xuefei , Li Xiaoqiong
Published: May 2023

PCR is indispensable in basic science and biotechnology for in-orbit life science research. However, manpower and resources are limited in space. To address the constraints of in-orbit PCR, we proposed an oscillatory-flow PCR technique based on biaxial centrifugation. Oscillatory-flow PCR remarkably reduces the power requirements of the PCR process and has a relatively high ramp rate. A microfluidic chip that could perform dispensing, volume correction, and oscillatory-flow PCR of four samples simultaneously using biaxial centrifugation was designed. An automatic biaxial centrifugation device was designed and assembled to validate the biaxial centrifugation oscillatory-flow PCR. Simulation analysis and experimental tests indicated that the device could perform fully automated PCR amplification of four samples in one hour, with a ramp rate of 4.4 ∘C/s and average power consumption of less than 30 W. The PCR results were consistent with those obtained using conventional PCR equipment. Air bubbles generated during amplification were removed by oscillation. The chip and device realized a low-power, miniaturized, and fast PCR method under microgravity conditions, indicating good space application prospects and potential for higher throughput and extension to qPCR.
Evidence of Chaos in Electroencephalogram Signatures of Human Performance: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kargarnovin Shaida , Hernandez Christopher , Farahani Farzad V. , Karwowski Waldemar
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: Chaos, a feature of nonlinear dynamical systems, is well suited for exploring biological time series, such as heart rates, respiratory records, and particularly electroencephalograms. The primary purpose of this article is to review recent studies using chaos theory and nonlinear dynamical methods to analyze human performance in different brain processes. (2) Methods: Several studies have examined chaos theory and related analytical tools for describing brain dynamics. The present study provides an in-depth analysis of the computational methods that have been proposed to uncover brain dynamics. (3) Results: The evidence from 55 articles suggests that cognitive function is more frequently assessed than other brain functions in studies using chaos theory. The most frequently used techniques for analyzing chaos include the correlation dimension and fractal analysis. Approximate, Kolmogorov and sample entropy account for the largest proportion of entropy algorithms in the reviewed studies. (4) Conclusions: This review provides insights into the notion of the brain as a chaotic system and the successful use of nonlinear methods in neuroscience studies. Additional studies of brain dynamics would aid in improving our understanding of human cognitive performance.
Sleep Duration on Workdays Is Correlated with Subjective Workload and Subjective Impact of High Workload on Sleep in Young Healthy Adults
Authors: von Gall Charlotte , Muth Thomas , Angerer Peter
Published: May 2023

Psychosocial stress is widespread worldwide and particularly affects young adults. There is a close and bidirectional relationship between sleep quality and mental health. Sleep duration, which is an important feature of sleep quality, shows both intra-individual variations and inter-individual differences. Internal clocks control individual sleep timing, which, in turn, defines the chronotype. On workdays, however, the end and duration of sleep are largely limited by external factors, such as alarm clocks, especially in later chronotypes. The aim of this study is to investigate whether there is a relationship between sleep timing and duration on workdays and measures for psychosocial stress, such as anxiety and depression; subjective workload; and the subjective impact of a high workload on sleep. We used a combination of Fitbit wearable actigraphy data and a questionnaire survey of young, healthy medical students and calculated correlations between the respective variables. We found that a shorter sleep duration on workdays is associated with a higher subjective workload and a higher subjective impact of a high workload on sleep, which, in turn, are associated with higher measures of anxiety and depression. Our study contributes to understanding the importance of sleep timing/duration and their regularity on weekdays for subjectively perceived psychosocial stress.
Mental Health and Well-Being of Migrant Populations in Portugal Two Years after the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Alarcão Violeta , Candeias Pedro , Stefanovska-Petkovska Miodraga , Pintassilgo Sónia , Machado Fernando Luís , Virgolino Ana , Santos Osvaldo
Published: May 2023

In Portugal, like in other European countries, the COVID-19 pandemic aggravated the risk of poverty and social exclusion faced by migrants. This study aimed to assess mental health and well-being, and their social determinants, among Brazilian and Cape Verdean immigrant populations two years after the COVID-19 pandemic while exploring the role of positive psychological factors such as resilience and perceived social support. We conducted a cross-sectional survey combining online and face-to-face questionnaires for data collection between February and November 2022 on dimensions of mental health considered potentially relevant to the post-pandemic context: psychological distress, anxiety, and depression. Overall, 604 immigrants were included (322 Brazilian and 282 Cape Verdean); 58.5% of those surveyed were women and 41.5% were men. The results revealed that gender (being a woman) was associated with both psychological distress and depression, higher education was associated with anxiety, and that, for the three mental health dimensions under analysis, the perception of discrimination and resilience were negative and positive predictors, respectively. Findings can inform the design and implementation of relevant public mental health promotion programs with a focus on equity targeted to the general population. Such programs would help to address the psychological and social impacts of this long-term, insidious global pandemic that has challenged governments, health care systems, health care professionals, individuals, families, and communities worldwide.
Feasibility of Pellet Material Incorporating Anti-Stripping Emulsifier and Slaked Lime for Pothole Restoration
Authors: Kim Kyung-Nam , Le Tri Ho Minh
Published: May 2023

Climate change has caused a surge in abnormal weather patterns, leading to a rise in cracks, plastic deformation, and pothole damage on road surfaces. In order to fabricate a ready-mix admixture of warm asphalt mixture (WMA) for pothole restoration, this study aimed to develop a neutralized anti-stripping material in pellet form by extruding a combination of slaked lime and a liquid emulsifier additive. Slaked lime (1% by weight of aggregate) was chosen for its ability to enhance moisture resistance, while a liquid emulsifier (wax + vegetable oil + surfactant + water) was added to create a pellet-type stripping inhibitor for WMA. After successfully fabricating the pellet admixture, this study evaluated the performance of two asphalt mixtures: conventional Slaked Lime Hot Mix Asphalt (LHMA) and the Pellet-Type Anti-Stripping Warm Mix Asphalt (PWMA). Several compatibility tests were conducted to evaluate the quality of the developed material. The results showed that the fatigue resistance of the developed material (PWMA) improved by over 20%, indicating an extended fatigue life for the pavement. The LHMA and PWMA met the quality standard for asphalt mixtures, with a TSR value of approximately 83%. Both mixtures demonstrated improved rutting resistance compared to HMA. The PWMA required 16,500 cycles, while the LHMA required 19,650 cycles to reach a settlement of 20 mm, indicating better moisture resistance than the control mix (13,481 cycles). The modified mixture performed properly in the Cantabro test, with loss rates below 20%, indicating their ability to retain their aggregate structure. The PWMA also showed superior resistance to plastic deformation, with a 12.5% lower phase angle (35°) at a reduced frequency of 10−3. In general, the application of PWMA not only prolongs the pavement lifespan but also reduces the production temperature by over 20 °C, leading to lower emissions and energy consumption. This makes it an environmentally friendly option for pavement applications and contributes to sustainable road construction practices.
Evaluation of the Spatial Disparities in the Youth Suitability of Shenzhen Public Primary School Campuses
Authors: Li Yixuan , Chen Chengyu
Published: May 2023

This paper delves into the critical issue of youth suitability in the public primary school campuses in Shenzhen Central District, China. Youths constitute a crucial part of the urban population, contributing greatly to social wealth; thus, considering their needs and well-being is imperative in the urban planning and development process. The paper employs a comprehensive Python script tool, based on ArcGIS, that is augmented with an empirical investigation and data from the statistical yearbook in order to conduct a meticulous evaluation of the youth suitability of primary school campuses. The results of the study reveal spatial differences in the youth suitability of primary school campuses, with the suitability diminishing from the district’s inner areas to its outer regions. Additionally, the study unearths that primary school campuses in the Shenzhen Central District are generally stratified, and that the campus service space could be appropriately categorized into several groups based on the dual criteria of accessibility as well as youth suitability. Finally, this study provides illuminating decision-making suggestions for optimizing the youth suitability of primary school campuses in Shenzhen Central District, highlighting the crucial role of education policies, regional economic development, and campus infrastructure improvements in nurturing inclusive, vibrant, and sustainable urban environments.
Integrated Modeling of Minerva Medica to Identify the Dynamic Effects of Rail-Traffic Vibrations
Authors: Santini Silvia , Sabbatini Valerio , Sebastiani Claudio , Baggio Carlo
Published: May 2023

A comprehensive study was carried out to integrate information from different sources and evaluate the effects of induced vibrations on a temple. Historical analysis was fundamental to interpreting the evolution of the construction and defining the HBIM. Experimental data were implemented in the FEM of the site, including the temple, its foundations, and the soil stratifications. Sensitivity analysis was carried out to identify the most influential parameters, which were calibrated to reduce error with the experimental frequencies. The FEM was further optimized with the Douglas–Reid method, considering, simultaneously, modal frequencies and deformations. Two different nonlinear dynamic analyses were performed; one analysis studied the effect on the temple of the dynamically moving load of the tram, and the other analysis studied the response of the temple to three-dimensional accelerations applied at the base. The drawbacks of each simulation were identified by comparing the numerical and experimental results.
Health and Safety Protocol for the Management of Building Demolition Waste with High Mercury Contamination
Authors: Rodríguez Rafael , Garcia-Gonzalez Hector , Pastrana Ángel , Hernández Zenaida
Published: May 2023

The LIFE-funded European research project SUBproducts4LIFE seeks to demonstrate the use of industrial subproducts for the large-scale remediation of contaminated soils and industrial building debris connected to Hg mining. The main purpose of the present research was to ensure worker health and safety by creating a protocol for working in a highly mercury-contaminated demolition debris. A methodology consisting of sampling campaigns with a Lumex RA-915 mercury analyser, evaluating the accuracy of an empirical Hg emission model, evaluating each working task, providing recommendations for minimising the workers’ exposure and calculating the maximum work period in each area was proposed. It was also shown to forecast Hg biological markers. As a result, a work protocol was developed with three scenarios which allow planning the work and forecasting the workers’ mercury exposure as a function of the daily temperature, ensuring that the workers’ mercury exposure is below occupational mercury levels. The working protocol allows planning the works safely with minimum exposure to gaseous mercury and working fulfilling standard requirements. Plans for restoration or new use of industrial mercury-contaminated sites have increased in recent years, and the research improves the knowledge of Hg gas distribution and worker Hg exposure.
Deterministic and Probabilistic Risk Management Approaches in Construction Projects: A Systematic Literature Review and Comparative Analysis
Authors: Khodabakhshian Ania , Puolitaival Taija , Kestle Linda
Published: May 2023

Risks and uncertainties are inevitable in construction projects and can drastically change the expected outcome, negatively impacting the project’s success. However, risk management (RM) is still conducted in a manual, largely ineffective, and experience-based fashion, hindering automation and knowledge transfer in projects. The construction industry is benefitting from the recent Industry 4.0 revolution and the advancements in data science branches, such as artificial intelligence (AI), for the digitalization and optimization of processes. Data-driven methods, e.g., AI and machine learning algorithms, Bayesian inference, and fuzzy logic, are being widely explored as possible solutions to RM domain shortcomings. These methods use deterministic or probabilistic risk reasoning approaches, the first of which proposes a fixed predicted value, and the latter embraces the notion of uncertainty, causal dependencies, and inferences between variables affecting projects’ risk in the predicted value. This research used a systematic literature review method with the objective of investigating and comparatively analyzing the main deterministic and probabilistic methods applied to construction RM in respect of scope, primary applications, advantages, disadvantages, limitations, and proven accuracy. The findings established recommendations for optimum AI-based frameworks for different management levels—enterprise, project, and operational—for large or small data sets.
Holistic Approach for Assessing Buildings’ Environmental Impact and User Comfort from Early Design: A Method Combining Life Cycle Assessment, BIM, and Active House Protocol
Authors: Di Santo Nicole , Guante Henriquez Leidy , Dotelli Giovanni , Imperadori Marco
Published: May 2023

Due to our increasing dependence on resources and energy, climate change is among the most tangible issues we are facing today. The construction industry has been identified as a key sector to intervene in, but mitigation strategies must focus on more than just operational energy. As current climate policies recommend, designers should consider the broader framework of environmental impacts characterizing the entire building lifecycle. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) considers the mentioned aspects. Nevertheless, the complexity of LCA and the criticalities of related tools prevent the application of the approach during decisive early stages. Additionally, LCA allows the estimation of environmental issues, but fails to describe other dimensions of sustainability. The article proposes an evaluation method to support decision-making during the design of sustainable buildings. The method exploits the LCA tool and the assessment framework provided by a Green Sustainable Building Certification (Active House) integrated with BIM. The approach was applied and proven through a case study: a residential single-family building in northern Italy, comparing two technological options. The study confirmed the effectiveness of the multicriteria evaluation framework that, from the early design stage, can be used to measure the environmental impact of buildings alongside implications for the final users’ comfort.
Adopting Resilience Thinking through Nature-Based Solutions within Urban Planning: A Case Study in the City of València
Authors: García-Blanco Gemma , Navarro Daniel , Feliu Efren
Published: May 2023

The paper exposes the experience of València in applying climate-resilient thinking to the current revision of the city’s General Urban Development Plan. A semi-quantitative, indicator-based risk assessment of heat stress was carried out on the 23 functional areas of the city sectorized by the Plan, including modeling and spatial analysis exercises. A data model of 18 indicators was built to characterize vulnerability. A thermal stress map was developed using the URbCLim model and a heat index was then calculated using Copernicus hourly data (air temperature, humidity, and wind speed) for the period of January 2008–December 2017 at a spatial resolution of 100 m × 100 m. General recommendations at the city level as well as guidelines for development planning in the functional areas at risk are provided, with specifications for the deployment of nature-based solutions as adaptation measures. From a planning perspective, the study positively informs the General Urban Development Plan, the City Green and Biodiversity Plan, and contributes to City Urban Strategy 2030 and City Missions 2030 for climate adaptation and neutrality. Applying the same approach to other climate change-related hazards (i.e., water scarcity, pluvial flooding, sea level rise) will allow better informed decisions towards resilient urban planning.
Ab Initio Study of Optical Properties of Hybrid Films Based on Bilayer Graphene and Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Slepchenkov Michael M. , Barkov Pavel V. , Kolosov Dmitry A. , Glukhova Olga E.
Published: May 2023

In recent years, the possibility of combining graphene and carbon nanotubes has attracted much attention from researchers attempting to obtain new multifunctional hybrid materials with promising properties. Optoelectronics shows potential as a field of application for such hybrid structures. The variety of existing structural configurations of graphene-nanotube hybrids requires preliminary detailed studies of their optical properties by computer simulation methods. In this paper, we consider island-type graphene-nanotube hybrid films formed by AB-stacked bilayer graphene and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). In this case, bilayer graphene is located above the surface of the nanotube, forming areas with an increased density of carbon atoms, creating so-called “islands.” To meet the conditions of a real experiment, we chose chiral SWCNTs (12,6) with a diameter of 1.2 nm, which are most often synthesized in real experiments. All constructed atomistic models of bilayer graphene-chiral SWCNT films were tested for thermodynamic stability at room temperature and proved their suitability for research. Using Kubo-Greenwood formalism, we calculated the complex optical conductivity tensor and absorbance coefficient in the wavelengths of ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared radiations. The photocurrent spectra are calculated based on the obtained absorption spectra and solar radiation spectra on the earth’s surface (AM1.5) and outside the earth’s atmosphere (AM0). The results of calculations revealed regularities in the influence of structural parameters (nanotube diameter, graphene width) on the optical and optoelectronic properties of graphene-chiral SWCNT (12,6) with an island structure.