bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial–Temporal Characteristics and Influencing Mechanisms of Air Quality Index by Considering COVID-19 in Yunnan, Southeastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Liang Qiushi , Liu Shengzhi , Yin Jiqing , Han Qiaohua , Zhang Wenxiang , Niu Jie
Published: February 2023

Based on the analysis of air quality data in Yunnan Province from 2015 to 2020, combined with spatial interpolation analysis and geographic detector factor analysis, the spatial–temporal evolution characteristics of air quality in Yunnan Province have been studied, and the main driving factors, the mechanisms, and the impact of regional COVID-19 control measures affecting air quality have been discussed. The results show that the air quality in Yunnan Province was generally good (superior rate > 98%) from 2015 to 2020, that the Air Quality Index (AQI) value is better in the wet season than in the dry season, and that the concentration of major pollutants shows a decreasing trend. AQI values are spatially high in the east and low in the west. The relative humidity, precipitation, population density, building construction area, and civil vehicles have a greater degree of explanation for the spatial differentiation of AQI, whereas the synergistic influence (maximum value 0.92) of socio-economic factors and meteorological factors is significantly greater than that of a single factor (maximum value 0.80) by the geographic detector model. The control measures for COVID-19 in 2020 reduced the concentration of major pollutants in the atmosphere to a certain extent. Controlling regional air pollution in urban agglomerations in low-latitude plateau areas can improve their air quality by reducing human activities. However, the control of O3 concentration is more complex, and more restrictive factors need to be considered. The results will provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of air pollution in plateau cities.
Study on the Peak Factor of the Wind-Induced Response of Super-High-Rise Buildings
Authors: Wang Jun-Bo , Wang Yu , Wang Lei , Liang Shu-Guo
Published: February 2023

The wind-induced responses of tall buildings are stochastic processes, and the peak factor is an important parameter to evaluate the extreme value of the wind-induced response in wind-resistant design. The existing research on the peak factor mainly focuses on the wind pressure on the building surface, but rarely concerns the wind-induced response peak factor of the structures. In view of this, the peak factor of the wind-induced response of super-high-rise buildings was studied in this paper. Firstly, a series of wind tunnel tests of the multi-degree-of-freedom aero-elastic models (MDOF) were carried out, wherein the along-wind and cross-wind responses were measured. Thereafter, the peak factor of wind-induced response was calculated using the peak factor method, classical extreme value theory, and the improved peak factor method. It was found that the peak factor calculated by the improved peak factor method is in good agreement with classical extreme value theory, which indicates that the improved peak factor method is applicable to calculate the peak factor of the wind-induced response of high-rise buildings. The results calculated using the improved peak factor method show that the peak factor of cross-wind response varies significantly with the wind speed, varying from about 2.5 to 5.5. The peak factor of cross-wind response first increases and then decreases with the increase in the wind speed, reaches the minimum near the critical wind speed of vortex-induced vibration (VIV), and increases again when the wind speed is larger than the VIV wind speed. Finally, an empirical formula for the cross-wind response peak factor was proposed as a function of the reduced wind speed, aspect ratio, and damping ratio of the structure.
Exploring Natural and Anthropogenic Drivers of PM2.5 Concentrations Based on Random Forest Model: Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei Urban Agglomeration, China
Authors: Guo Shasha , Tao Xiaoli , Liang Longwu
Published: February 2023

PM2.5 is the key reason for the frequent occurrence of smog; therefore, identifying its key driving factors has far-reaching significance for the prevention and control of air pollution. Based on long-term remote sensing inversion of PM2.5 data, 21 driving factors in the fields of nature and humanities were selected, and the random forest model was applied to study the influencing factors of PM2.5 concentration in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei urban agglomeration (BTH) from 2000 to 2016. The results indicate: (1) The main factors affecting PM2.5 concentration not only include natural factors such as sunshine hours (SSH), relative humidity (RHU), elevation (ELE), normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), wind speed (WIN), average temperature (TEM), daily temperature range (TEMR), and precipitation (PRE), but also human factors such as urbanization rate (URB), total investment in fixed assets (INV), and the number of employees in the secondary industry (INDU); (2) The concentration of PM2.5 changed into an inverted S-shape with the increase in SSH and WIN, and into an S-shape with the increase in RHU, NDVI, TEM, PRS, URB and INV. As for ELE and TEMR, it fluctuated and decreased with the increase in ELE, while it increased and then decreased with the increase in TEMR. However, its change was less pronounced with the increase in PRE and INDU; (3) The influence of natural factors is higher than that of human factors, but the role of human factors has been continuously strengthened in recent years. The adjustment and control of PM2.5 pollution sources from the perspective of human factors will become an effective way to reduce PM2.5 concentrations in the BTH.
Determination of Critical Loads for Eutrophying and Acidifying Air Pollutant Inputs for the Protection of Near-Natural Ecosystems in Germany
Authors: Schlutow Angela , Scheuschner Thomas
Published: February 2023

Under the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (CLRTAP) of the UN Economic Commission for Europe, UNECE, to which Germany acceded in 1982, the harmful effects of air pollutants on the environment are to be steadily reduced and ultimately limited to a level that is compatible with nature. The ICP Modelling & Mapping (ICP M&M) under the Working Group on Effects (WGE) of CLRTAP maps critical loads for the entire Convention area and calculates the exceedance risks and associated risks to vegetation and biodiversity. A current data request was made in November 2015 with the aim of submitting new or updated ecosystem-specific critical loads for protection against acidification and eutrophication. For this task, critical loads were determined by the authors for one third of the territory of Germany using the simple mass balance (SMB) method according to the ICP Mapping Manual. The permissible eutrophying nitrogen input into the ecosystem CLnut(N), as well as the acidifying sulphur input CLmaxS, can be described as the setting of the equilibrium between substance inputs and outputs, provided that specific critical limits are met. The BERN database—created by the authors—serves as the basis for modelling vegetation-specific critical limits as a complement to the SMB model. The BERN database contains near-natural plant communities with clearly definable site constancy. The 25,600 German and a further 24,600 European vegetation records dating back to before 1960 were evaluated to determine the good ecological status of the plant communities. The results of the critical load calculation show that about half of the receptor areas have critical loads for eutrophying nitrogen below 10 kg ha−1 a−1 and critical loads for acidifying sulphur were below 1500 eq ha−1 a−1. It could be demonstrated that the BERN–SMB-modelled critical loads for eutrophying nitrogen inputs show lower values on average throughout Germany than those calculated using only the previous critical limits according to the ICP Mapping Manual. These values are closer to the empirical critical loads than the critical loads without BERN data. For the goal of the German National Biodiversity Strategy by 2007 and 2020 to define ecosystem-related impact thresholds for pollutants that describe the effects on biodiversity, the BERN/SMB critical loads for the protection of ecosystems provide a precautionary scientific basis.
Automation of a PCB Reflow Oven for Industry 4.0
Authors: Vilches Isaí , Juárez Durán Félix , Gómez-Espinosa Alfonso , García Carrillo Mary Carmen , Escobedo Cabello Jesús Arturo
Published: February 2023

With the rise of Industry 4.0, its pillars (which include Internet of Things, “Big Data”, data analytics, augmented reality, cybersecurity, etc.) have become unavoidable tendencies for the automated manufacturing industry. Equipment upgrade is required to match the new standards of digitally assisted automation. However, not all factories in the medium to small range (or independent manufacturers) can afford to upgrade their equipment. Therefore, the availability of affordable Industry 4.0 upgrades for now-outdated devices is necessary for manufacturers in the SME range (Small-Medium Enterprises) to stay relevant and profitable. More specifically, this work revolves around the automation of printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing, which is one of the most popular and profitable areas involved in this movement; and within it, the large majority of manufacturing defects can be traced to the soldering or “reflow” stage. Manufacturing research must, thus, aim towards improving reflow ovens and, more specifically, aim to improve their autonomous capabilities and affordability. This work presents the design and results of a controlling interface utilizing a Raspberry Pi 4 as a coupling interface between an MQTT Broker (which monitors the overall system) and the oven itself (which is, intentionally, a sub-prime model which lacks native IoT support), resulting in successful, remote, network-based controlling and monitoring of the oven. Additionally, it documents the design and implementation of the network adaptations necessary for it to be considered a cybersecure IIoT Module and connect safely to the Production Cell’s Subnet. All of this to address the inclusion of specific Industry 4.0 needs such as autonomous functioning, data collection and cybersecurity in outdated manufacturing devices and help enrich the processes of SME PCB manufacturers.
Dynamical Properties of Discrete-Time HTLV-I and HIV-1 within-Host Coinfection Model
Authors: Elaiw Ahmed M. , Aljahdali Abdulaziz K. , Hobiny Aatef D.
Published: February 2023

Infection with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) or human T-lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I) or both can lead to mortality. CD4+T cells are the target for both HTLV-I and HIV-1. In addition, HIV-1 can infect macrophages. CD4+T cells and macrophages play important roles in the immune system response. This article develops and analyzes a discrete-time HTLV-I and HIV-1 co-infection model. The model depicts the within-host interaction of six compartments: uninfected CD4+T cells, HIV-1-infected CD4+T cells, uninfected macrophages, HIV-1-infected macrophages, free HIV-1 particles and HTLV-I-infected CD4+T cells. The discrete-time model is obtained by discretizing the continuous-time model via the nonstandard finite difference (NSFD) approach. We show that NSFD preserves the positivity and boundedness of the model’s solutions. We deduce four threshold parameters that control the existence and stability of the four equilibria of the model. The Lyapunov method is used to examine the global stability of all equilibria. The analytical findings are supported via numerical simulation. The model can be useful when one seeks to design optimal treatment schedules using optimal control theory.
Extremal Graphs for Sombor Index with Given Parameters
Authors: Zhang Wanping , Meng Jixiang , Wang Na
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we present the upper and lower bounds on Sombor index SO(G) among all connected graphs (respectively, connected bipartite graphs). We give some sharp lower and upper bounds on SO(G) among connected graphs in terms of some parameters, including chromatic, girth and matching number. Meanwhile, we characterize the extremal graphs attaining those bounds. In addition, we give upper bounds on SO(G) among connected bipartite graphs with given matching number and/or connectivity and determine the corresponding extremal connected bipartite graphs.
Machine Learning and BMI Improve the Prognostic Value of GAP Index in Treated IPF Patients
Authors: Lacedonia Donato , De Pace Cosimo Carlo , Rea Gaetano , Capitelli Ludovica , Gallo Crescenzio , Scioscia Giulia , Tondo Pasquale , Bocchino Marialuisa
Published: February 2023

Patients affected by idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) have a high mortality rate in the first 2–5 years from diagnosis. It is therefore necessary to identify a prognostic indicator that can guide the care process. The Gender-Age-Physiology (GAP) index and staging system is an easy-to-calculate prediction tool, widely validated, and largely used in clinical practice to estimate the risk of mortality of IPF patients at 1–3 years. In our study, we analyzed the GAP index through machine learning to assess any improvement in its predictive power in a large cohort of IPF patients treated either with pirfenidone or nintedanib. In addition, we evaluated this event through the integration of additional parameters. As previously reported by Y. Suzuki et al., our data show that inclusion of body mass index (BMI) is the best strategy to reinforce the GAP performance in IPF patients under treatment with currently available anti-fibrotic drugs.
Detection of Suspicious Cardiotocographic Recordings by Means of a Machine Learning Classifier
Authors: Ricciardi Carlo , Amato Francesco , Tedesco Annarita , Dragone Donatella , Cosentino Carlo , Ponsiglione Alfonso Maria , Romano Maria
Published: February 2023

Cardiotocography (CTG) is one of the fundamental prenatal diagnostic methods for both antepartum and intrapartum fetal surveillance. Although it has allowed a significant reduction in intrapartum and neonatal mortality and morbidity, its diagnostic accuracy is, however, still far from being fully satisfactory. In particular, the identification of uncertain and suspicious CTG traces remains a challenging task for gynecologists. The introduction of computerized analysis systems has enabled more objective evaluations, possibly leading to more accurate diagnoses. In this work, the problem of classifying suspicious CTG recordings was addressed through a machine learning approach. A machine-based labeling was proposed, and a binary classification was carried out using a support vector machine (SVM) classifier to distinguish between suspicious and normal CTG traces. The best classification metrics showed accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity values of 92%, 92%, and 90%, respectively. The main results were compared both with results obtained by considering a more unbalanced dataset and with relevant literature studies in the field. The use of the SVM proved to be promising in the field of CTG classification. However, appropriate feature selection and dataset balancing are crucial to achieve satisfactory performance of the classifier.
Are Activity Wrist-Worn Devices Accurate for Determining Heart Rate during Intense Exercise?
Authors: Martín-Escudero Pilar , Cabanas Ana María , Dotor-Castilla María Luisa , Galindo-Canales Mercedes , Miguel-Tobal Francisco , Fernández-Pérez Cristina , Fuentes-Ferrer Manuel , Giannetti Romano
Published: February 2023

The market for wrist-worn devices is growing at previously unheard-of speeds. A consequence of their fast commercialization is a lack of adequate studies testing their accuracy on varied populations and pursuits. To provide an understanding of wearable sensors for sports medicine, the present study examined heart rate (HR) measurements of four popular wrist-worn devices, the (Fitbit Charge (FB), Apple Watch (AW), Tomtom runner Cardio (TT), and Samsung G2 (G2)), and compared them with gold standard measurements derived by continuous electrocardiogram examination (ECG). Eight athletes participated in a comparative study undergoing maximal stress testing on a cycle ergometer or a treadmill. We analyzed 1,286 simultaneous HR data pairs between the tested devices and the ECG. The four devices were reasonably accurate at the lowest activity level. However, at higher levels of exercise intensity the FB and G2 tended to underestimate HR values during intense physical effort, while the TT and AW devices were fairly reliable. Our results suggest that HR estimations should be considered cautiously at specific intensities. Indeed, an effective intervention is required to register accurate HR readings at high-intensity levels (above 150 bpm). It is important to consider that even though none of these devices are certified or sold as medical or safety devices, researchers must nonetheless evaluate wrist-worn wearable technology in order to fully understand how HR affects psychological and physical health, especially under conditions of more intense exercise.
Effects of Intermediate Frequency (150 kHz) Electromagnetic Radiation on the Vital Organs of Female Sprague Dawley Rats
Authors: Sundaram Venkatesan , Mohammed Stephanie , Cockburn Brian , Srinivasan M. , Venkata Chalapathi , Johnson Jenelle , Gilkes Lester , Jones Kegan , Zyuzikov Nikolay
Published: February 2023

Exposure to electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from intermediate frequency sources has increased exponentially in recent years. The consequences of this exposure on biological systems are prompting scientists to study the effects on human health. This current study aimed to determine the effects of intermediate frequency (150 kHz) EMR exposure on the vital organs of female Sprague Dawley rats. The EMR group (n = 10 animals) was exposed to a frequency of 150 kHz with an intensity of 65 ± 15 μW/cm2 for two months. The control group (n = 10 animals) was exposed to an intensity of 35 ± 15 nW/cm2. Haematological, histochemical, gross, and histopathological profiles of all major organs of all animals were then performed using standard procedures. All major organs generally showed no significant detectable effects in either the control or EMR groups. However, gross and histopathological examinations revealed the effects of EMR on the liver and lungs, which showed inflammatory changes without significant biochemical/haematological manifestations. In addition, a significant increase in serum sodium level and a decrease in serum urea level were also observed in the EMR group. It can be concluded that the current frequency and duration of exposure trigger the changes in the liver and lungs but are not sufficient to cause clinical and functional manifestations. Therefore, a long-term exposure study might be helpful to determine the effects of 150 kHz IF EMR on these organs.
Synthesis of Phthalimide Derivatives and Their Insecticidal Activity against Caribbean Fruit Fly, Anastrepha suspensa (Loew)
Authors: Tok Fatih , Yang Xiangbing , Tabanca Nurhayat , Koçyiğit-Kaymakçıoğlu Bedia
Published: February 2023

In this study, thirteen phthalimide derivatives were designed and synthesized. All synthesized compounds were evaluated to determine their potential for inhibitory activities against females of the Caribbean fruit fly, Anastrepha suspensa (Loew) (Diptera: Tephritidae). These efforts led to the discovery of three compounds 4a, 4c, and 4d with potent insecticidal activity (LD50 range from 0.70 to 1.91 μg/fly). Among these compounds, 4a exhibited the highest inhibitory potency with 0.70 μg/fly. In addition, in silico models indicated that compound 4a is less toxic than phthalimide and other precursors. Therefore, our results suggest that 4a has strong potential as a candidate component for developing a novel environmentally friendly insecticide for control of pest fruit flies.
Conformational Analysis of Charged Homo-Polypeptides
Authors: Bigman Lavi S. , Levy Yaakov
Published: February 2023

Many proteins have intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs), which are often characterized by a high fraction of charged residues with polyampholytic (i.e., mixed charge) or polyelectrolytic (i.e., uniform charge) characteristics. Polyelectrolytic IDRs include consecutive positively charged Lys or Arg residues (K/R repeats) or consecutive negatively charged Asp or Glu residues (D/E repeats). In previous research, D/E repeats were found to be about five times longer than K/R repeats and to be much more common in eukaryotes. Within these repeats, a preference is often observed for E over D and for K over R. To understand the greater prevalence of D/E over K/R repeats and the higher abundance of E and K, we simulated the conformational ensemble of charged homo-polypeptides (polyK, polyR, polyD, and polyE) using molecular dynamics simulations. The conformational preferences and dynamics of these polyelectrolytic polypeptides change with changes in salt concentration. In particular, polyD and polyE are more sensitive to salt than polyK and polyR, as polyD and polyE tend to adsorb more divalent cations, which leads to their having more compact conformations. We conclude with a discussion of biophysical explanations for the relative abundance of charged amino acids and particularly for the greater abundance of D/E repeats over K/R repeats.
Cytochrome P450 Surface Domains Prevent the β-Carotene Monohydroxylase CYP97H1 of Euglena gracilis from Acting as a Dihydroxylase
Authors: Lautier Thomas , Smith Derek J. , Yang Lay Kien , Chen Xixian , Zhang Congqiang , Truan Gilles , Lindley Nic D
Published: February 2023

Molecular biodiversity results from branched metabolic pathways driven by enzymatic regioselectivities. An additional complexity occurs in metabolites with an internal structural symmetry, offering identical extremities to the enzymes. For example, in the terpene family, β-carotene presents two identical terminal closed-ring structures. Theses cycles can be hydroxylated by cytochrome P450s from the CYP97 family. Two sequential hydroxylations lead first to the formation of monohydroxylated β-cryptoxanthin and subsequently to that of dihydroxylated zeaxanthin. Among the CYP97 dihydroxylases, CYP97H1 from Euglena gracilis has been described as the only monohydroxylase. This study aims to determine which enzymatic domains are involved in this regioselectivity, conferring unique monohydroxylase activity on a substrate offering two identical sites for hydroxylation. We explored the effect of truncations, substitutions and domain swapping with other CYP97 members and found that CYP97H1 harbours a unique N-terminal globular domain. This CYP97H1 N-terminal domain harbours a hydrophobic patch at the entrance of the substrate channel, which is involved in the monohydroxylase activity of CYP97H1. This domain, at the surface of the enzyme, highlights the role of distal and non-catalytic domains in regulating enzyme specificity.
Scandium-44 Radiolabeled Peptide and Peptidomimetic Conjugates Targeting Neuropilin-1 Co-Receptor as Potential Tools for Cancer Diagnosis and Anti-Angiogenic Therapy
Authors: Masłowska Katarzyna , Redkiewicz Patrycja , Halik Paweł Krzysztof , Witkowska Ewa , Tymecka Dagmara , Walczak Rafał , Choiński Jarosław , Misicka Aleksandra , Gniazdowska Ewa
Published: February 2023

Pathological angiogenesis, resulting from an imbalance between anti- and pro-angiogenic factors, plays a pivotal role in tumor growth, development and metastasis. The inhibition of the angiogenesis process by the VEGF/VEGFR-2/NRP-1 pathway raises interest in the search for such interaction inhibitors for the purpose of the early diagnosis and treatment of angiogenesis-dependent diseases. In this work we designed and tested peptide-based radiocompounds that selectively bind to the neuropilin-1 co-receptor and prevent the formation of the pro-angiogenic VEGF-A165/NRP-1 complex. Three biomolecules, A7R and retro-inverso DR7A peptides, and the branched peptidomimetic Lys(hArg)-Dab-Pro-Arg (K4R), conjugated with macrocyclic chelator through two linkers’ types, were labeled with theranostic scandium-44 radionuclide, and studied in vitro as potential targeted radiopharmaceuticals. ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) studies showed no negative effect of the introduced biomolecules’ changes and high NRP-1 affinity in the case of A7R- and K4R-radiocompounds and a lack affinity for DR7A-radiocompounds. All radiopeptides showed a hydrophilic nature as well as high stability against ligand exchange reactions in cysteine/histidine solutions. Unfortunately, all radiocompounds showed unsatisfactory nano-scale stability in human serum, especially for use as therapeutic radioagents. Further work is ongoing and focused on the search for angiogenesis inhibitors that are more human serum stable.
Hydrogen Sulfide Inhibited Sympathetic Activation in D-Galactose-Induced Aging Rats by Upregulating Klotho and Inhibiting Inflammation in the Paraventricular Nucleus
Authors: Yu Hao , Yu Qiyao , Mi Yuan , Wang Ping , Jin Sheng , Xiao Lin , Guo Qi , Wu Yuming
Published: February 2023

The present study aimed to explore the central relationship between cardiovascular conditions and aging. D-galactose (D-gal) was utilized to induce an accelerated aging model and to evaluate the effects of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) on aging-related cardiovascular risk factors and mechanisms. Eight-week-old Sprague Dawley rats were given an intraperitoneal injection of 250 mg/kg D-gal every day with or without H2S (56 μmol/kg) for 12 weeks. We found that D-gal treatment induced a noticeably aging-related increase in p16, p53 and p21 protein levels and senescence-associated beta-galactosidase staining. In addition, the level of noradrenalin was increased, accompanied by enhanced blood pressure and renal sympathetic nerve activity in aged rats. The greater sympathetic responses were related with the increased level of inflammation. The decreased level of klotho in the paraventricular nucleus neuron also contributed to sympathetic activation in D-gal-induced aged rats. However, the exogenous administration of H2S attenuated the sympathetic activity in aged rats, as evidenced by the decreased blood pressure, renal sympathetic nerve activity and noradrenalin level. The ameliorated cellular senescence, inflammation and heightened klotho in the paraventricular nucleus were attributed to the protective effects of H2S. The present study provides further evidence for the drug development of H2S for the prevention or treatment of the aging-associated cardiovascular diseases.
Construction and Manipulation of Serial Gradient Dilution Array on a Microfluidic Slipchip for Screening and Characterizing Inhibitors against Human Pancreatic Lipase
Authors: Yang Junqiang , Deng Yanyan , Zhang Min , Feng Shilun , Peng Sheng , Yang Shijia , Liu Peirong , Cai Gaozhe , Ge Guangbo
Published: February 2023

Obesity is one of the foremost public health concerns. Human pancreatic lipase (hPL), a crucial digestive enzyme responsible for the digestion of dietary lipids in humans, has been validated as an important therapeutic target for preventing and treating obesity. The serial dilution technique is commonly used to generate solutions with different concentrations and can be easily modified for drug screening. Conventional serial gradient dilution is often performed with tedious multiple manual pipetting steps, where it is difficult to precisely control fluidic volumes at low microliter levels. Herein, we presented a microfluidic SlipChip that enabled formation and manipulation of serial dilution array in an instrument-free manner. With simple slipping steps, the compound solution could be diluted to seven gradients with the dilution ratio of 1:1 and co-incubated with the enzyme (hPL)-substrate system for screening the anti-hPL potentials. To ensure complete mixing of solution and diluent during continuous dilution, we established a numerical simulation model and conducted an ink mixing experiment to determine the mixing time. Furthermore, we also demonstrated the serial dilution ability of the proposed SlipChip using standard fluorescent dye. As a proof of concept, we tested this microfluidic SlipChip using one marketed anti-obesity drug (Orlistat) and two natural products (1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-β-D-glucopyranose (PGG) and sciadopitysin) with anti-hPL potentials. The IC50 values of these agents were calculated as 11.69 nM, 8.22 nM and 0.80 μM, for Orlistat, PGG and sciadopitysin, respectively, which were consistent with the results obtained by conventional biochemical assay.
AIEgens-Doped Photonic Crystals for High Sensitivity Fluorescence Detection of Tumor Markers
Authors: Liao Zhijun , Zhou Qian , Gao Bingbing
Published: February 2023

Detection of tumor markers is of great significance to preliminarily judge whether patients have malignant tumors. Fluorescence detection (FD) is an effective means to achieve sensitive detection of tumor markers. Currently, the increased sensitivity of FD has attracted research interest worldwide. Here, we have proposed a method of doping luminogens with aggregation-induced emission (AIEgens) into photonic crystals (PCs), which can significantly enhance the fluorescence intensity to achieve high sensitivity in the detection of tumor markers. PCs are made by scraping and self-assembling, which has the special effect of fluorescence enhancement. The combination of AIEgens and PCs can enhance the fluorescence intensity 4–7 times. These characteristics make it extremely sensitive. The limit of detection (LOD) for the detection of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in the AIE10 (Tetraphenyl ethylene-Br) doped PCs with a reflection peak of 520 nm is 0.0377 ng/mL. LOD for the detection of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in the AIE25 (Tetraphenyl ethylene-NH2) doped PCs with a reflection peak of 590 nm is 0.0337 ng/mL. Our concept offers a good solution for highly sensitive detection of tumor markers.
Perampanel in Brain Tumor-Related Epilepsy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tabaee Damavandi Payam , Pasini Francesco , Fanella Gaia , Cereda Giulia Sofia , Mainini Gabriele , DiFrancesco Jacopo C. , Trinka Eugen , Lattanzi Simona
Published: February 2023

Brain tumor-related epilepsy (BTRE) is a common comorbidity in patients with brain neoplasms and it may be either the first symptom or develop after the tumor diagnosis. Increasing evidence suggests that brain tumors and BTRE share common pathophysiological mechanisms. Glutamatergic mechanisms can play a central role in promoting both primary brain tumor growth and epileptogenesis. Perampanel (PER), which acts as a selective antagonist of glutamate α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors, may play a role both in the reduction in tumor growth and the control of epileptiform activity. This systematic review aimed to summarize the pre-clinical and clinical evidence about the antitumor properties, antiseizure effects and tolerability of PER in BTRE. Eight pre-clinical and eight clinical studies were identified. The currently available evidence suggests that PER can be an effective and generally well-tolerated therapeutic option in patients with BTRE. In vitro studies demonstrated promising antitumor activity of PER, while no role in slowing tumor progression has been demonstrated in rat models; clinical data on the potential antitumor activity of PER are scarce. Additional studies are needed to explore further the effects of PER on tumor progression and fully characterize its potentialities in patients with BTRE.
Embryoid Body Cells from Human Embryonic Stem Cells Overexpressing Dopaminergic Transcription Factors Survive and Initiate Neurogenesis via Neural Rosettes in the Substantia Nigra
Authors: Ramos-Acevedo Rodrigo , Morato-Torres Carmen Alejandra , Padilla-Godínez Francisco J. , Bernal-Conde Luis Daniel , Palomero-Rivero Marcela , Zafar Faria , Collazo-Navarrete Omar , Soto-Rojas Luis O. , Schüle Birgitt , Guerra-Crespo Magdalena
Published: February 2023

Transplantation of immature dopaminergic neurons or neural precursors derived from embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) is a potential therapeutic approach for functional restitution of the nigrostriatal pathway in Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, further studies are needed to understand the effects of the local microenvironment on the transplanted cells to improve survival and specific differentiation in situ. We have previously reported that the adult SNpc sustains a neurogenic microenvironment. Non-neuralized embryoid body cells (EBCs) from mouse ESCs (mESCs) overexpressing the dopaminergic transcription factor Lmx1a gave rise to many tyrosine hydroxylase (Th+) cells in the intact and damaged adult SNpc, although only for a short-term period. Here, we extended our study by transplanting EBCs from genetically engineered naive human ESC (hESC), overexpressing the dopaminergic transcription factors LMX1A, FOXA2, and OTX2 (hESC-LFO), in the SNpc. Unexpectedly, no graft survival was observed in wild-type hESC EBCs transplants, whereas hESC-LFO EBCs showed viability in the SNpc. Interestingly, neural rosettes, a developmental hallmark of neuroepithelial tissue, emerged at 7- and 15-days post-transplantation (dpt) from the hESC-LFO EBCs. Neural rosettes expressed specification dopaminergic markers (Lmx1a, Otx2), which gave rise to several Th+ cells at 30 dpt. Our results suggest that the SNpc enables the robust initiation of neural differentiation of transplanted human EBCs prompted to differentiate toward the midbrain dopaminergic phenotype.
Individualism, Collectivism, and Allocation Behavior: Evidence from the Ultimatum Game and Dictator Game
Authors: Jiao Jingjing , Zhao Jun
Published: February 2023

Studies have demonstrated the influence of the cultural values of individualism and collectivism on individuals’ economic behavior (e.g., competition and trade). By using individualistic and collectivistic texts to prime participants’ minds in a lab experiment, we investigated the impact of the cultural values of individualism and collectivism on allocation behavior in an ultimatum game (UG) and dictator game (DG). In the dictator game, we found that participants in the collectivism-priming condition reported a slightly higher mean offer than in the individualism-priming condition, and participants had an average higher acceptance rate of the proposers’ offer in the collectivism-priming (vs. individualism-priming) condition in the ultimatum game. Our findings suggest that participants exhibit more altruistic allocation behavior and are more tolerant of unfair allocation behavior after being primed by the collectivistic (vs. individualistic) texts. In comparison with participants who did not undergo initiation, we also found that Chinese participants who had been influenced by collectivist values for a long time remained unaffected after the initiation of collectivism, but shifted their allocation behavior (i.e., showed decreased altruistic allocation behavior and reduced tolerance of unfair allocation behavior) when individualism was primed.
Gestural Embodiment of Intensifiers in Iconic, Metaphoric, and Beat Gestures
Authors: Khatin-Zadeh Omid , Farsani Danyal , Hu Jiehui , Eskandari Zahra , Banaruee Hassan
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to examine the gestural embodiment of intensifiers in iconic and metaphoric gestures when these words are used with literal and metaphoric statements. We asked a group of Persian native speakers to listen to and then retell a set of Persian stories. In these stories, a number of intensifiers were used with literal and metaphoric sentences. The results showed that when an intensifier was used with a literal sentence, there was a higher probability of using an iconic or beat gesture than when there was no intensifier in the sentence. Also, when an intensifier was used with a metaphoric sentence, there was a higher probability of using a metaphoric or beat gesture than when the sentence contained no intensifier. These results suggested that an intensifier in a literal or metaphoric sentence can strengthen the mental simulation and the embodiment of objects, ideas, or situations. When an intensifier is used with a literal or metaphoric sentence, the strength of activation in the premotor areas may be amplified and spread to motor areas. In contrast, when no such intensifier is used in a literal or metaphoric sentence, there is a higher probability of simulation in premotor areas without spreading to the primary motor areas. The production of an internal force and expressing emphasis are two other possibilities that may explain the higher use of gestures with intensifiers.
Internet Use and Better-Informed Divorce in China
Authors: Liu Jindian , Yu Ning Neil , Cheng Mingwang , Wu Chunyan
Published: February 2023

China has witnessed a rapid expansion in Internet penetration in recent years, with profound impacts on people’s family life and marital relationships. This paper aims to examine the causal effects and functionary of information access through Internet on marital stability. This paper identifies a robust association between Internet use and increasing divorce rates in China by using nationally representative, individual-level survey data and province-level aggregate data. Various regression techniques and specifications demonstrated the statistical and economic significance of the association. Given the ever-expanding role of the Internet and the serious consequences of divorce on families and society, it is imperative that we study the underlying mechanisms as the first step toward socially responsible policymaking. Our analysis revealed a significant mediating effect of the self-reported importance of Internet information acquisition, the frequency of chatting with online friends, the frequency of meeting with online friends, and the intensity of Internet use. These findings are consistent with the theory that the increase in divorce decisions is due to better information access and is, therefore, rational and that policies such as a mandatory cooling-off period for divorce may lower societal welfare. We also conducted a series of heterogeneity analyses that showed, among other findings, that the Internet effect is stronger for women.
Sensor Incipient Fault Impacts on Building Energy Performance: A Case Study on a Multi-Zone Commercial Building
Authors: Li Yanfei , Im Piljae , Lee Seungjae , Bae Yeonjin , Yoon Yeobeom , Lee Sangkeun
Published: February 2023

Existing studies show sensor faults/error could double building energy consumption and carbon emissions compared with the baseline. Those studies assume that the sensor error is fixed or constant. However, sensor faults are incipient in real conditions and there were extremely limited studies investigating the incipient sensor fault impacts systematically. This study filled in this research gap by studying time-developing sensor fault impacts to rule-based controls on a 10-zone office building. The control sequences for variable air volume boxes (VAV) with an air handling unit (AHU) system were selected based on ASHRAE Guideline 36-2018: High-Performance Sequences of Operation for HVAC Systems. Large-scale simulations on cloud were conducted (3600 cases) through stochastic approach. Results show (1) The site energy differences could go −3.3% lower or 18.1% higher, compared with baseline. (2) The heating energy differences could go −66.5% lower or 314.4% higher, compared with baseline. (3) The cooling energy differences could go −11.5% lower or 65.0% higher, compared with baseline. (4) The fan energy differences could go 0.15% lower or 6.9% higher, compared with baseline.
A Study of the Soft Skills Possessed and Required in the Construction Sector
Authors: van Heerden Andries (Hennie) , Jelodar Mostafa Babaeian , Chawynski Gregory , Ellison Sean
Published: February 2023

Soft skills are essential to employability and retention; therefore, if obtained and observed, they can significantly reduce sector-wide turnover. This study aims to investigate and compare soft skills that industry professionals currently possess and soft skills the industry requires and needs to attain. A questionnaire was administered using the RICS database, and 741 respondents participated in this study. Initially, the soft skills possessed and the soft skills required were analysed and compared via descriptive statistics. Furthermore, principal component factor analysis was used to identify the underlying factors and classify the identified soft skills. It was found that there are alignments and evident discrepancies between the actual skills currently possessed and the skills required by these professionals. The soft skills currently possessed by the industry were classified into three groups: (a) Ethics and Professionalism Cluster; (b) Self-Effort Management Cluster; and (c) Management—Leadership and Power Cluster. This was different to the two clusters identified for the soft skills requirements, which were: (a) trait-based cluster—less controllable; (b) training-based cluster—more controllable. The study concludes that there are controllable and less-controllable skills, which need to be possessed and managed in building professionals. Controllable soft skills are easier to train, whereas trait-based soft skills are more difficult to train and possess. The findings of this research are significant as their understanding can be used to help mitigate turnover and guide construction sector professionals to plan for the appropriate skills they require.
The Influence of Block Morphology on Urban Thermal Environment Analysis Based on a Feed-Forward Neural Network Model
Authors: Qi Yansu , Li Xuefei , Liu Yingjie , He Xiujuan , Gao Weijun , Miao Sheng
Published: February 2023

Morphological indicators, which are important for urban planning, can be adjusted to effectively mitigate the heat island effect and promote a more comfortable urban environment. Most studies obtain the relationship between morphological indicators and land surface temperature (LST) from the urban scale, and it is difficult to apply the results to urban management and construction projects. Traditional research methods have ignored the complex and interactive relationship between morphological indicators and LST. In this work, the feed-forward neural network (FNN) model is utilized to model the nonlinear relationship between morphological indicators and LST at the block scale. After validation and comparison, the FNN model achieved MAE of 0.885 and RMSE of 1.184, indicating that the influence of morphological indicators on LST could be precisely mapped. In addition, using cooling LST as the optimization target, the specific indicator scheme is suggested based on the FNN model, where the percentage of green space is 17.1%, the percentage of impervious surface is 82.9%, the percentage of water is 0, the bare soil percentage is 0, the floor area ratio is 0.814, the building cover percentage is 32.2%, and the average building height is 7.2 m.
Laboratory and Field Testbed Evaluation of the Performance of Recycled Asphalt Mixture Using High-Penetration Asphalt
Authors: Lee Sang-Yum , Kim Young-Min , Le Tri Ho Minh
Published: February 2023

The application of recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) on a large scale is highly promoted to meet the current needs of carbon neutrality and sustainable development purposes. However, a majority of RAP mixture productions are currently relying on the restoring effects provided by the rejuvenators. Therefore, the study focuses on the feasibility of using high penetration asphalt binder (HPAB) in RAP mixture as a replacement for conventional rejuvenators. In this study, a recycled asphalt pavement mixture containing HPAB (RAP-H) was developed to resolve the cracking issue of RAP pavement in winter seasons owing to the rigid behavior of aged binders. To verify the applicability of the RAP-H mixture, the results of the quality standard test and mechanical performance test were compared with the reference RAP mixture having rejuvenator (RAP-R). Through the fatigue cracking test, by using Overlay Tester (OT) device, it was found that all specimens did not reach 93% load reduction after 1000 OT cycles, indicating a satisfied stress-bearing capacity. Additionally, the highest dynamic modulus of 27,275 MPa was found in the modified HPAB mixture, and this result is 4.4% higher than that of the reference mix. In the full-scale testbed, the long-term field applicability of the proposed approach was verified through field test construction. The measurement in practice reveals that the elastic modulus of RAP-H back-calculated from the FWD (Falling Weight Deflectometer) test is increased by more than 50% compared to RAP-R, which resulted in excellent performance characteristics of the HPAB pavement layer. In addition to the efficiency in the surface layer, an improved elastic modulus of the sub-base and subgrade layers in the HPAB section was found to be at 28.6% and 19.5%, respectively, compared to the RAP-R mix. In general, the performance of RAP-H satisfied all of the domestic and international quality and performance standards. The field test results confirmed the possibility of field application by showing performance higher than conventional recycled asphalt pavement.
Numerical Investigations of Progressive Collapse Behaviour of Multi-Storey Reinforced Concrete Frames
Authors: Fu Qiao-Ling , Tan Liang , Long Bin , Kang Shao-Bo
Published: February 2023

This paper presents numerical simulations of multi-storey reinforced concrete frames under progressive collapse scenarios. Reinforced concrete frames with different storeys are modelled using DIANA. The load resistance and failure mode of frames are obtained from the numerical simulation. Variations in axial force and bending moment at the beam end are also determined and analysed to shed light on the force transfer mechanism. Numerical results show that the single-storey frame can develop compressive arch action at the initial loading stage and subsequent catenary action at large deformations. However, in multi-storey frames, only the first-storey beam develops compressive arch action and catenary action, whereas beams in other storeys show rather limited axial compression force. Based on numerical results, a design method is proposed for multi-storey frames to resist progressive collapse. Comparisons between numerical results and design methods suggest that the design method can evaluate the progressive collapse resistance of multi-storey frames with good accuracy.
Ensuring the Authenticity of the Conservation and Reuse of Modern Industrial Heritage Architecture: A Case Study of the Large Machine Factory, China
Authors: Xiong Xiangrui , Wang Yanhui , Ma Cheng , Chi Yuwei
Published: February 2023

The Large Machine Factory (LMF) was built in the complex historical context of the late Qing Dynasty (1840–1912). Its space and construction faithfully record the architectural and cultural fusion between Chinese and western traditions and mark the beginning of modern architectural techniques in China. Through historical data and empirical studies, the historical background and architectural characteristics of the LMF were analyzed, and interventions aimed at ensuring authenticity were established. The cultural significance and results of construction were considered two crucial elements in terms of outstanding characteristics. Comprehensive inspection and assessment strategies were discussed, with minimal intervention and interpretation principles. Preventive reinforcement of the foundation, complementary reinforcement of the main structures, restoration of the historic façade and environment, and adaptive spatial interventions were found to be effective ways to ensure authenticity. The principles of minimal intervention and interpretability, which include prevention, recognizability, invisibility, subsidiarity, and intertextuality, were proposed through a comparison with the literature and practical experience. This study provides an appropriate technical reference for ensuring authenticity in the conservation and reuse of modern historic buildings with complex contexts. We propose a new understanding of intervention principles and suggest a guiding intervention path that avoids the complexities arising from the generalized interpretations of authenticity.