bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolutionary Diversity of Dus2 Enzymes Reveals Novel Structural and Functional Features among Members of the RNA Dihydrouridine Synthases Family
Authors: Lombard Murielle , Reed Colbie J. , Pecqueur Ludovic , Faivre Bruno , Toubdji Sabrine , Sudol Claudia , Brégeon Damien , de Crécy-Lagard Valérie , Hamdane Djemel
Published: November 2022

Dihydrouridine (D) is an abundant modified base found in the tRNAs of most living organisms and was recently detected in eukaryotic mRNAs. This base confers significant conformational plasticity to RNA molecules. The dihydrouridine biosynthetic reaction is catalyzed by a large family of flavoenzymes, the dihydrouridine synthases (Dus). So far, only bacterial Dus enzymes and their complexes with tRNAs have been structurally characterized. Understanding the structure-function relationships of eukaryotic Dus proteins has been hampered by the paucity of structural data. Here, we combined extensive phylogenetic analysis with high-precision 3D molecular modeling of more than 30 Dus2 enzymes selected along the tree of life to determine the evolutionary molecular basis of D biosynthesis by these enzymes. Dus2 is the eukaryotic enzyme responsible for the synthesis of D20 in tRNAs and is involved in some human cancers and in the detoxification of β-amyloid peptides in Alzheimer’s disease. In addition to the domains forming the canonical structure of all Dus, i.e., the catalytic TIM-barrel domain and the helical domain, both participating in RNA recognition in the bacterial Dus, a majority of Dus2 proteins harbor extensions at both ends. While these are mainly unstructured extensions on the N-terminal side, the C-terminal side extensions can adopt well-defined structures such as helices and beta-sheets or even form additional domains such as zinc finger domains. 3D models of Dus2/tRNA complexes were also generated. This study suggests that eukaryotic Dus2 proteins may have an advantage in tRNA recognition over their bacterial counterparts due to their modularity.
Structural Studies of Piperine Inclusion Complexes in Native and Derivative β-Cyclodextrins
Authors: Christoforides Elias , Andreou Athena , Papaioannou Andreas , Bethanis Kostas
Published: November 2022

Piperine (PN), the primary pungent alkaloid in black pepper shows several biological activities such as antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-cancerogenic effects. Similar to other alkaloids, PN is characterized by poor water solubility. One way to improve its solubility and thus its biological activities is by forming inclusion complexes with suitable cyclodextrins. In this work PN inclusion complexes in native β-cyclodextrin (β-CD), its methylated (randomly methylated (RM-β-CD), heptakis-(2,6-di-O-methyl)-β-CD (DM-β-CD) and heptakis-(2,3,6-tri-O-methyl)-β-CD (TM-β-CD)) and 2-hydroxypropylated (HP-β-CD) derivatives are investigated using physicochemical methods, such as phase solubility study and X-ray crystallography complemented by theoretical (molecular dynamics simulations) studies. The determination of the crystal structure of the PN inclusion complexes in β-CD, DM-β-CD and TM-β-CD, reveals the formation of 1:2 guest:host inclusion complexes in the crystalline state. The guest PN molecule threads the hydrophobic cavities of the hosts which are arranged as couples in a tail-to-tail mode in the case of PN/β-CD and in a head-to-tail mode in the cases of PN/DM-β-CD and PN/TM-β-CD. MD studies based on the crystallographically determined structures and docked models show the stability of the examined complexes in an aqueous environment whereas the binding affinity of PN for the host molecules is calculated by the MM/GBSA method. Finally, phase-solubility studies of PN with β-CD, RM-β-CD and HP-β-CD are presented, indicating a Bs-type for the PN/β-CD complex and an AL-type for the PN/RM-β-CD and PN/HP-β-CD complexes with 1:1 guest:host stoichiometry.
O-GlcNAc-Mediated Regulation of Galectin Expression and Secretion in Human Promyelocytic HL-60 Cells Undergoing Neutrophilic Differentiation
Authors: McTague Adam , Tazhitdinova Rada , Timoshenko Alexander V.
Published: November 2022

In this study, we have tested the hypothesis that the expression and secretion of galectins are driven through mechanisms globally impacted by homeostatic regulation involving the post-translational modification of intracellular proteins with O-linked N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc). We showed that neutrophilic differentiation of HL-60 cells induced by all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and 6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine (DON) was associated with a significant drop of cellular O-GlcNAc levels in serum-contained and serum-free cell culture media. Galectin gene and protein expression profiles in HL-60 cells were specifically modified by ATRA and by inhibitors of O-GlcNAc cycle enzymes, however overall trends for each drug were similar between cells growing in the presence or absence of serum except for LGALS9 and LGALS12. The secretion of four galectins (-1, -3, -9, and -10) by HL-60 cells in a serum-free medium was stimulated by O-GlcNAc-reducing ATRA and DON while O-GlcNAc-elevating thiamet G (O-GlcNAcase inhibitor) failed to change the basal levels of extracellular galectins. Taken together, these results demonstrate that O-GlcNAc homeostasis is essential not only for regulation of galectin expression in cells but also for the secretion of multiple members of this protein family, which can be an important novel aspect of unconventional secretion mechanisms.
Anticancer, Antimicrobial, and Antioxidant Activities of Organodiselenide-Tethered Methyl Anthranilates
Authors: Al-Abdallah Batool , Al-Faiyz Yasair S. , Shaaban Saad
Published: November 2022

Novel methyl anthranilate-based organodiselenide hybrids were synthesized, and their chemical structures were confirmed by state-of-the-art spectroscopic techniques. Their antimicrobial properties were assessed against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans microbial strains. Moreover, the antitumor potential was estimated against liver and breast carcinomas, as well as primary fibroblast cell lines. The Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans strains were more sensitive than Escherichia coli toward the OSe compounds. Interestingly, methyl 2-amino-5-(methylselanyl) benzoate (14) showed similar antifungal activity to the standard drug clotrimazole (IA% = 100%) and manifested promising antibacterial activity against E. coli (IA% = 91.3%) and S. aureus (IA% = 90.5%). Furthermore, the minimum inhibitory concentration experiments confirmed the antimicrobial activity of the OSe 14, which in turn was comparable to clotrimazole and ampicillin drugs. Interestingly, the anticancer properties were more pronounced in the HepG2 cells. The OSe 14 was the most cytotoxic (IC50 = 3.57 ± 0.1 µM), even more than the Adriamycin drug (IC50 = 4.50 ± 0.2 µM), and with therapeutic index (TI) 17 proposing its potential selectivity and safety. Additionally, OSe compounds 14 and dimethyl 5,5′-diselanediylbis(2-aminobenzoate) (5) exhibited promising antioxidants in the 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) in vitro assays with 96%, 92%, 91%, and 86% radical scavenging activities compared to 95% by vitamin C in the DPPH and ABTS assays, respectively. These results point to promising antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant activities of OSe 14 and 5 and warrant further studies.
Structure–Activity Relationship of 5-mer Catalytides, GSGYR and RYGSG
Authors: Nakamura Rina , Akizawa Toshifumi , Konishi Motomi
Published: November 2022

We recently discovered JAL-TA9 (YKGSGFRMI), a short hydrolytic peptide that we termed a Catalytide. The catalytic center of JAL-TA9 was modeled using MM2 and MMFF94 parameters and identified as GSGFR. Additionally, a structure–activity relationship study showed that GSGYR cleaved Aβ11-29. Here, we developed a novel Catalytide in silico. Molecular dynamics simulations of GSGYR and RYGSG using MM2 and MMFF94 parameters suggested that both peptides may form catalytic triads and oxyanion holes. The hydrolytic potency of RYGSG was five times higher than that of GSGYR. Moreover, both peptides showed three common cleavage positions for Aβ11-29; namely, L17-V18, V18-F19, and E22-D23. The aggregation ratio analyzed by the thioflavin-T assay correlated well with proteolytic activity, suggesting that the aggregation of Aβ11-29 was suppressed by the cleavage reaction. Docking simulations with the carbonyl carbon of L17 or the carbonyl carbon of E22 in Aβ11-29 were conducted using the secondary structures of GSGYR and RYGSG. The distance between the hydroxyl group of serine and the carbonyl carbon of the two cleavage sites proved that RYGSG was closer to Aβ11-29 than to GSGYR. This study demonstrated that Catalytides are useful for understanding structure–activity relationships.
The Distribution of Innervation and Immune Cell Infiltration Is Different in Genital and Extragenital Variants of Lichen Sclerosus
Authors: Vuković Dubravka , Ogorevc Marin , Tripković Ivo , Puizina-Ivić Neira , Saraga-Babić Mirna , Mardešić Snježana
Published: November 2022

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a progressive skin disease that is characterized by chronic inflammation of either genital or extragenital skin, and it disproportionately affects women. We analyzed the distribution of nerve fibers, vanilloid receptors, cell proliferation, mast cells and macrophages in genital and extragenital LS samples, as well as in healthy skin, by using immunohistochemistry. The total amount of intraepidermal nerve fibers was lower in LS samples compared to healthy controls, while the total amount of subepidermal nerve fibers and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) positive fibers was higher in genital LS samples compared to both extragenital LS and healthy controls. Cell proliferation, macrophage and mast cell density were increased in LS samples compared to healthy controls. Genital LS had a higher macrophage density compared to the extragenital variant. Mast cell distribution significantly differed between genital and extragenital LS samples, even though their total mast cell densities were similar. These findings could explain the differences between pruritic symptoms of genital and extragenital LS and provide targets for the research of novel therapeutic strategies for LS management.
Galanin Receptors (GALR1, GALR2, and GALR3) Immunoexpression in Enteric Plexuses of Colorectal Cancer Patients: Correlation with the Clinico-Pathological Parameters
Authors: Kiezun Jacek , Kiezun Marta , Krazinski Bartlomiej Emil , Paukszto Lukasz , Koprowicz-Wielguszewska Anna , Kmiec Zbigniew , Godlewski Janusz
Published: November 2022

Galanin (GAL) is an important neurotransmitter released by the enteric nervous system (ENS) neurons located in the muscularis externa and submucosa enteric plexuses that acts by binding to GAL receptors 1, 2 and 3 (GALR1, 2 and 3). In our previous studies, the GAL immunoexpression was compared in colorectal cancer (CRC) tissue and the adjacent parts of the large intestine wall including myenteric and submucosal plexuses. Recently we have also found that expression levels of GALR1 and GALR3 proteins are elevated in CRC tissue as compared with their expression in epithelial cells of unchanged mucosa. Moreover, higher GALR3 immunoreactivity in CRC cells correlated with better prognosis of CRC patients. To understand the distribution of GALRs in enteric plexuses distal and close to CRC invasion, in the present study we decided to evaluate GALRs expression within the myenteric and submucosal plexuses located proximally and distally to the cancer invasion and correlated the GALRs expression levels with the clinico-pathological data of CRC patients. The immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent methods showed only slightly decreased immunoexpression of GALR1 and GALR3 in myenteric plexuses close to cancer but did not reveal any correlation in the immunoexpression of all three GAL receptors in myenteric plexuses and tumour progression. No significant changes were found between the expression levels of GALRs in submucosal plexuses distal and close to the tumour. However, elevated GALR1 expression in submucosal plexuses in vicinity of CRC correlated with poor prognosis, higher tumour grading and shorter overall survival. When myenteric plexuses undergo morphological and functional alterations characteristic for atrophy, GALRs maintain or only slightly decrease their expression status. In contrast, the correlation between high expression of GALR1 in the submucosal plexuses and overall survival of CRC patients suggest that GAL and GALRs can act as a components of local neuro-paracrine pro-proliferative pathways accelerating the invasion and metastasis of cancer cell. The obtained results suggest an important role of GALR1 in submucosal plexuses function during the progression of CRC and imply that GALR1 expression in submucosal plexuses of ENS could be an important predictive factor for CRC progression.
The Pathophysiological Significance of “Mitochondrial Ejection” from Cells
Authors: Fan Qintao , Maejima Yasuhiro , Wei Lai , Nakagama Shun , Shiheido-Watanabe Yuka , Sasano Tetsuo
Published: November 2022

Mitochondria have beneficial effects on cells by producing ATP and contributing to various biosynthetic procedures. On the other hand, dysfunctional mitochondria have detrimental effects on cells by inducing cellular damage, inflammation, and causing apoptosis in response to various stimuli. Therefore, a series of mitochondrial quality control pathways are required for the physiological state of cells to be maintained. Recent research has provided solid evidence to support that mitochondria are ejected from cells for transcellular degradation or transferred to other cells as metabolic support or regulatory messengers. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the regulation of mitochondrial transmigration across the plasma membranes and discuss the functional significance of this unexpected phenomenon, with an additional focus on the impact on the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. We also provide some perspective concerning the unrevealed mechanisms underlying mitochondrial ejection as well as existing problems and challenges concerning the therapeutic application of mitochondrial ejection.
Sequence-Based Prediction of Protein Phase Separation: The Role of Beta-Pairing Propensity
Authors: Mullick Pratik , Trovato Antonio
Published: November 2022

The formation of droplets of bio-molecular condensates through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of their component proteins is a key factor in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis. Different protein properties were shown to be important in LLPS onset, making it possible to develop predictors, which try to discriminate a positive set of proteins involved in LLPS against a negative set of proteins not involved in LLPS. On the other hand, the redundancy and multivalency of the interactions driving LLPS led to the suggestion that the large conformational entropy associated with non specific side-chain interactions is also a key factor in LLPS. In this work we build a LLPS predictor which combines the ability to form pi-pi interactions, with an unrelated feature, the propensity to stabilize the β-pairing interaction mode. The cross-β structure is formed in the amyloid aggregates, which are involved in degenerative diseases and may be the final thermodynamically stable state of protein condensates. Our results show that the combination of pi-pi and β-pairing propensity yields an improved performance. They also suggest that protein sequences are more likely to be involved in phase separation if the main chain conformational entropy of the β-pairing maintained droplet state is increased. This would stabilize the droplet state against the more ordered amyloid state. Interestingly, the entropic stabilization of the droplet state appears to proceed according to different mechanisms, depending on the fraction of “droplet-driving“ proteins present in the positive set.
A 3D-Printed Standardized Modular Microfluidic System for Droplet Generation
Authors: Chen Junyi , Huang Shaoqi , Long Yan , Wang Kan , Guan Yangtai , Hou Lianping , Dai Bo , Zhuang Songlin , Zhang Dawei
Published: November 2022

Droplet-based microfluidics has a variety of applications, such as material synthesis and single-cell analysis. In this paper, we propose a modular microfluidic system using projection micro-stereolithography three-dimensional (3D) printing technology for droplet generation. All modules are designed using a standard cubic structure with a specific leakage-free connection interface. Versatile droplets, including single droplets, alternating droplets, merged droplets, and Janus particles, have been successfully produced. The droplet size and the generation rate can be flexibly controlled by adjusting the flow rates. The influence of the flow rate fraction between the discrete phase and the continuous phase over the generation of the alternating and merged droplets is discussed. Furthermore, the ‘UV curing’ module can be employed to solidify the generated droplets to avoid coalescence and fix the status of the Janus particles. The proposed modular droplet generators are promising candidates for various chemical and biological applications, such as single-cell incubation, screening of protein crystallization conditions, synthesis of nanoparticles, and gene delivery. In addition, we envision that more functional modules, e.g., valve, microreactor, and detection modules, could be developed, and the 3D standardized modular microfluidics could be further applied to other complex systems, i.e., concentration gradient generators and clinical diagnostic systems.
Brain AVMs-Related microRNAs: Machine Learning Algorithm for Expression Profiles of Target Genes
Authors: Giotta Lucifero Alice , Luzzi Sabino
Published: November 2022

Introduction: microRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs playing a myriad of important roles in regulating gene expression. Of note, recent work demonstrated a critical role of miRNAs in the genesis and progression of brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs). Accordingly, here we examine miRNA signatures related to bAVMs and associated gene expression. In so doing we expound on the potential prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic significance of miRNAs in the clinical management of bAVMs. Methods: A PRISMA-based literature review was performed using PubMed/Medline database with the following search terms: “brain arteriovenous malformations”, “cerebral arteriovenous malformations”, “microRNA”, and “miRNA”. All preclinical and clinical studies written in English, regardless of date, were selected. For our bioinformatic analyses, miRWalk and miRTarBase machine learning algorithms were employed; the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database was quired for associated pathways/functions. Results: four studies were ultimately included in the final analyses. Sequencing data consistently revealed the decreased expression of miR-18a in bAVM-endothelial cells, resulting in increased levels of vascular endodermal growth factor (VEGF), Id-1, matrix metalloproteinase, and growth signals. Our analyses also suggest that the downregulation of miR-137 and miR-195* within vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) may foster the activation of inflammation, aberrant angiogenesis, and phenotypic switching. In the peripheral blood, the overexpression of miR-7-5p, miR-629-5p, miR-199a-5p, miR-200b-3p, and let-7b-5p may contribute to endothelial proliferation and nidus development. The machine learning algorithms employed confirmed associations between miRNA-related target networks, vascular rearrangement, and bAVM progression. Conclusion: miRNAs expression appears to be critical in managing bAVMs’ post-transcriptional signals. Targets of microRNAs regulate canonical vascular proliferation and reshaping. Although additional scientific evidence is needed, the identification of bAVM miRNA signatures may facilitate the development of novel prognostic/diagnostic tools and molecular therapies for bAVMs.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Motivation, Involvement, and Behavior of Cyclists in Taiwan
Authors: Yu Ya-Ling , Lin Jia-Yi , Wang Chiung-Hsia , Huang Chin-Huang
Published: November 2022

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has spread all over the world and has impacted tourism globally, with countries taking various measures such as travel restrictions, border closures, lockdowns, or quarantines to contain the virus. Tourists’ motivation has also been affected by COVID-19, but so far, the literature has not yet discussed their concern over COVID-19 as well as the relationships among their motivation, involvement, and behavior intention. Therefore, this study fills the gap in the literature by taking cycling tourism as an example to understand the involvement of tourists concerning COVID-19 and presents the depth and breadth of its effects upon tourism. Due to the challenge of face-to-face, on-site investigation, we employ an online survey for data collection, use exploratory factor analysis to extract the main factors of motivation, involvement, and behavior intention, and set up a structural equation model to examine the relationships among the three factors. The results show that COVID-19 has positively and significantly affected motivation and involvement. Motivation positively and significantly affects involvement, and involvement affects motivation and behavior intention. The main finding herein is that motivation does not affect behavior, but involvement does mediate between the motivation and behavior of cyclists during COVID-19. Therefore, people may perceive the risk of health and wellbeing through such involvement.
Factors Affecting BIM Adoption in the Yemeni Construction Industry: A Structural Equation Modelling Approach
Authors: Al-sarafi Ali Hamoud Mssoud , Alias Aidi Hizami , Shafri Helmi Zulhaidi Mohd. , Jakarni Fauzan Mohd.
Published: November 2022

The construction sector is one of Yemen’s most important economic pillars. Building information modelling (BIM) is a new information technology implementation that can create an intelligent digital design of buildings to support a variety of tasks and provides a wide range of benefits throughout the project life cycle. However, BIM is not widely embraced in Yemeni construction firms. Compared with other countries, Yemen presents a unique case for BIM adoption due to the ongoing war in the country, which will assist in rapid rebuilding processes. Thus, a complete and systematic investigation of the factors affecting BIM adoption in the Yemeni construction industry is required. This study utilises five categories of impacting factors: Technology, Process, Policy, People, and the Environment to model the strategic implementation for BIM in the Yemeni construction industry. A random sample was used to achieve homogeneity and increase the consistency and quality of data. Purposive sampling was used to choose participants for the framework validation. The data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM), and the key factors influencing BIM adoption were determined and modelled. The results show multivariate results indicate a high correlation within the measurement model for all factors affecting BIM adoption in Yemen. In addition, the developed model was deemed to fit because the analysis result of the model’s coefficient of determination test (R2) is BIM adoption having 0.437, Environment at 0.589, and People having 0.310, demonstrating high acceptance. Moreover, the results reveal a high correlation between policy and people (>0.50), while the environment significantly affected BIM adoption (0.304). Overall, the model illustrated how various factors influence BIM adoption. The created framework highlights the importance of understanding BIM adoption concepts and challenges in the Yemeni construction industry. It is believed that this study highlights the BIM implementation in developing countries such as Yemen and the possibility of implementing the proposed method in other countries to develop their own BIM implementation strategy.
Artificial-Neural-Network-Based Surrogate Models for Structural Health Monitoring of Civil Structures: A Literature Review
Authors: Dadras Eslamlou Armin , Huang Shiping
Published: November 2022

It is often computationally expensive to monitor structural health using computer models. This time-consuming process can be relieved using surrogate models, which provide cheap-to-evaluate metamodels to replace the original expensive models. Because of their high accuracy, simplicity, and efficiency, Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) have gained considerable attention in this area. This paper reviews the application of ANNs as surrogates for structural health monitoring in the literature. Moreover, the review contains fundamental information, detailed discussions, wide comparisons, and suggestions for future research. Surrogates in this literature review are divided into parametric and nonparametric models. In the past, nonparametric models dominated this field, but parametric models have gained popularity in the recent decade. A parametric surrogate is commonly supplied with metaheuristic algorithms, and can provide high levels of identification. Recurrent networks, instead of traditional ANNs, have also become increasingly popular for nonparametric surrogates.
Constructive and Destructive Leadership Behaviors, Skills, Styles and Traits in BIM-Based Construction Projects
Authors: Omer Mazen M. , Mohd-Ezazee N. M. Adeeq , Lee Yong Siang , Rajabi Mohammad Sadra , Rahman Rahimi A.
Published: November 2022

Building information modeling (BIM) implementation is expanding over time, and collaboration is becoming more critical in construction projects. Leadership characteristics may contribute to or hinder the effectiveness of these collaborations in BIM-based construction projects. However, the current body of knowledge lacks information on the leadership characteristics that can be constructive or destructive for BIM-based construction projects. Therefore, this study aims to determine the constructive and destructive leadership behaviors, skills, styles, and traits in BIM-based construction projects. An explorative qualitative study was conducted by interviewing twenty architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals. Then, the thematic analysis approach was used to analyze the interview data. The study findings suggest that common constructive leadership behaviors are tolerant and committed. Furthermore, the common constructive leadership trait and style is reliability. On the contrary, the common destructive leadership behavior is intolerant. This study provides the literature with a novel list of constructive and destructive leadership characteristics for BIM-based construction projects. Understanding these characteristics would assist industry professionals and policymakers in increasing the performance of BIM-based construction projects.
Experimental and Parametric Study on Seismic Behavior of Steel Frame with ALC Panels
Authors: Ding Kewei , Kong Xiaoying , He Shulin , Zong Da
Published: November 2022

This paper presents a new type of connector which is used in prefabricated structures for attaching the autoclaved lightweight concrete panels to the steel frame. The new type of connector is composed of an L-node plate and a Z-node plate and is termed as the “pendulous Z-plate connector”. For examining the seismic behavior of the new connector, two full-scale steel frames with cladding panel walls, in which the ALC panels are connected to the steel frame by both classical and new connectors, were tested under quasi-static loading. The failure mode, hysteresis performance, energy dissipation, and stiffness degradation of the structures were measured and compared. The experimental results indicate that the new connector facilitates a better structural performance of cladding panel walls than the classical connector in terms of the coordinating deformation, the energy dissipation, and the load-carrying capacity at the yielding and the ultimate stages. In addition, for in-depth analysis of the failure mechanism, the finite element modeling was conducted and validated based on the comparison with the experimental results. Further parametric studies are carried out to find out the effect of bolt grades on the structure.
Selecting Key Smart Building Technologies for UAE Prisons by Integrating Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Fuzzy-TOPSIS
Authors: Aldhaheri Mohammed Abdulla Mohammed Mesfer , Xia Bo , Nepal Madhav , Chen Qing
Published: November 2022

Prisons are the structures used for incarcerated inmates and are often overcrowded and understaffed. This often leads to inhumane conditions and increased violence. Smart building technologies can help to alleviate these problems to some extent and improve communication between staff and prisoners. However, selecting appropriate smart building technology for prison building requires significant effort, knowledge, and experience. The current study aims to develop a decision-making model for selecting smart building technologies for UAE prisons following the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy-TOPSIS. The results of AHP revealed that for the main criteria, economical criteria were the highest ranked with a global weight of 0.228, followed by technology and engineering criteria (global weights of 0.203 and 0.200, respectively). For sub-criteria, prison category and security was the highest ranked criterion with a global weight of 0.082 followed by antihacking capability (0.075). Concerning the final ranking of smart building technologies by fuzzy-TOPSIS, the safety and security system was the highest-ranked technology (Ci = 0.970), followed by the fire protection system (Ci = 0.636) and information and communication information network system (Ci = 0.605). To conclude, the current findings will assist UAE policymakers and prison authorities to select the most appropriate smart building technologies for UAE prison buildings.
Examining Variance, Flexibility, and Centrality in the Spatial Configurations of Yazd Schools: A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Fallah Tafti Fatemeh , Lee Ju Hyun
Published: November 2022

Past historical research on Iranian educational architecture has highlighted three socio-spatial characteristics: (i) the topological variance of spatial properties, (ii) the flexibility of spatial configuration, and (ii) the centrality of outdoor spaces, which remain under scrutiny. This paper aims to quantitatively examine the topological changes in the spatial configurations of Yazd schools over time. The study entails the application of a Justified Plan Graph (JPG) method to quantify and compare the morphological properties of three historical sets of 20 Yazd schools (traditional, transitional and modern, and contemporary). The results confirm the historical changes in the Yazd schools’ flexibility and their outdoor spaces’ centrality, although the variance of spatial properties over time is not clearly observed. In particular, due to the relatively higher centrality values of outdoor spaces, the traditional schools, regardless of their rigid spatial logics, developed more integrated and interactive spatial configurations. As a first historical study on the socio-spatial configuration of Yazd schools, this paper precisely demonstrates the JPG method for this longitudinal spatial analysis.
The Potential of Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPs) to Supply Net Zero Carbon Housing
Authors: Finnegan Stephen , Edwards Robert , Al-Derbi Bushra , Campbell Iona , Fulton Matt
Published: November 2022

Governments throughout the EU and the UK face a persistent challenge of satisfying the continual growth in demand for housing and create zero carbon buildings. This paper presents a novel conceptual framework and empirical results to evaluate the potential for Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPs) to address this challenge. Firstly, we present a comprehensive analysis of the energy performance of a SIPs building in the UK to evaluate the potential for such technologies to satisfy the energy and carbon objectives. Using our unique data set we show that SIPs can exceed the necessary energy efficiency standards and reach Net Zero Carbon. Secondly, we introduce game theory as a novel conceptual framework to understand the incentives of the manufacturers of SIPs and UK/EU authorities. This enables us to identify potential sources of incentive conflict, which inhibit the diffusion of such technologies. We demonstrate that it benefits both parties to engage in medium investment, but the inferior under investment scenario can emerge if the UK/EU does not provide leadership and commitment to SIPs technologies. Regardless of the market design in terms of the timing of decisions, the maximum level of support by both the UK/EU and the SIPs manufacturers cannot be achieved.
Smart Contracts in the Construction Industry: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rathnayake Ishara , Wedawatta Gayan , Tezel Algan
Published: November 2022

On-time delivery of documentation and contracts has been recognized as a crucial requirement for the successful delivery of projects. However, the construction industry still depends on time-consuming traditional contract processes, which negatively affect the overall productivity of projects in the industry. The use of Smart Contracts (SCs) is highlighted as a suitable novel technology to expedite the contract processes and establish a reliable payment environment in the construction industry. Whilst there has been an increase in the debate about the use of SCs in construction in recent years, their use in practice still seems to be in its infancy. As such, the topic will benefit from a thorough review of benefits, drivers, barriers and strategies that can enhance the implementation of SCs in construction. This article presents the key findings from a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) on SCs in the construction industry, critically assessing existing studies on the topic. The study initially involved 171 research papers for the SLR process, and out of that 49 research papers were filtered for further analysis after reading their abstracts. A total of 30 papers were finally filtered after the full-text reading for the SLR. Descriptive and content analysis were used to analyse the full-text findings. The study graphically mapped the bibliographic materials by using the Visualization of Similarities (VoS) Viewer software. As per the findings, the topic has mostly been researched in Asia and the Pacific as a region and China as a country. It was noted that there were more empirical articles than theoretical studies related to SCs, evidencing the industry relevance of the issue. A total of 55% of the articles reviewed have been published in journals with a Q1 ranking. All the articles were written by multiple authors, with 30% of the journal articles having international co-authors and benefitting from the collaboration between authors. Key advantages identified in the literature go beyond contract and payment provisions and include aspects such as logistic handling, decentralized applications, business process management, automated payments, etc. Key drivers for adoption are supply chain pressure, competitive pressure, top management support, simple layout, reduction in risks of clients, clarity in responsibility and risk allocation, whereas the key barriers include insecurity, limited observability, incompatibility, inactive government collaboration and limited storage capacity. Key strategies to enhance the application of SC in construction include integrating theorems proving symbolic execution, using the selective transparency method and lock fund system, testing the integration of SCs with other systems at the initial stage, incorporating semi-automated consensus mechanisms for payments, constructing a mechanism to actively engage with government bodies, etc.
Evaluation of Static DNA Ploidy Analysis Using Conventional Brush Biopsy-Based Cytology Samples as an Adjuvant Diagnostic Tool for the Detection of a Malignant Transformation in Potentially Oral Malignant Diseases: A Prospective Study
Authors: Bechstedt Natalie , Pomjanski Natalia , Schramm Martin , Remmerbach Torsten W.
Published: November 2022

Background: The accuracy of DNA image cytometry as an investigation method for potentially malignant disorders of the oral cavity is currently still a subject of controversy, due to inconsistently applied definitions of DNA aneuploidy, small cohorts and different application techniques of the method. The aim of this study was to examine the accuracy of the method as a supplementary diagnostic tool in addition to the cytological examination using internationally consented definitions for DNA aneuploidy. Methods: A total of 602 samples from 467 patients with various oral lesions were included in this prospective study. Brush biopsies from each patient were first cytologically examined and categorized by a pathologist, second evaluated using DNA image cytometry, and finally compared to either histological biopsy result or clinical outcome. Results: Using the standard definition of DNA aneuploidy, we achieved a sensitivity of 93.5%, a positive predictive value for the detection of malignant cells of 98.0%, and an area under the curve of 0.96 of DNA ploidy analysis for the detection of severe oral epithelial dysplasia, carcinoma in situ or oral squamous cell carcinoma. Importantly, using logistic regression and a two-step model, we were able to describe the increased association between DNA-ICM and the detection of malignant cells (OR = 201.6) as a secondary predictor in addition to cytology (OR = 11.90). Conclusion: In summary, this study has shown that DNA ploidy analysis based on conventional specimens of oral brush biopsies is a highly sensitive, non-invasive, patient-friendly method that should be considered as an additional diagnostic tool for detecting malignant changes in the oral cavity.
A Review on Pulsed Laser Preparation of Nanocomposites in Liquids and Their Applications in Photocatalysis
Authors: Li Yang , Zheng Zhong , Yan Jiujiang , Lu Bing , Li Xiangyou
Published: November 2022

The purpose of photocatalysis is to realize the conversion between solar energy and chemical energy, and it is essential to develop a high-performance photocatalyst under visible-light irradiation. The conventional methods for photocatalyst preparation are mainly wet chemical routes, and abundant yields can be obtained. However, the products are not neat and accompanied by chemical groups and impurities, which are not beneficial for the enhancement of photocatalytic performance. In recent years, as a powerful tool for nanomaterial fabrication, pulsed laser heating in a liquid medium has been utilized to prepare a variety of nanocomposites. Products with synergistic effects and high crystallinity can be rapidly prepared under pulsed laser selective heating, which is beneficial for obtaining more effective photocatalytic performance. In this review, the typical characteristics of pulsed laser heating in liquids and their prepared nanocomposites for photocatalytic applications are summarized. This review not only highlights the innovative works of pulsed-laser-prepared nanocomposites in liquids for photocatalysis but also briefly introduces the specific challenges and prospects of this field.
Synthesis of High-Energy Faceted TiO2 Nanocrystals with Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance for the Removal of Methyl Orange
Authors: Du Yien , Niu Xianjun , Li Wanxi , Liu Jian , Li Jinxiao
Published: November 2022

In this work, brookite TiO2 nanocrystals with co-exposed {001} and {120} facets (pH0.5-T500-TiO2 and pH11.5-T500-TiO2), rutile TiO2 nanorod with exposed {110} facets and anatase TiO2 nanocrystals with exposed {101} facets (pH3.5-T500-TiO2) and {101}/{010} facets (pH5.5-T500-TiO2, pH7.5-T500-TiO2 and pH9.5-T500-TiO2) were successfully synthesized through a one-pot solvothermal method by using titanium (V) iso-propoxide (TTIP) colloidal solution as the precursor. The crystal structure, morphology, specific surface area, surface chemical states and photoelectric properties of the pHx-T500-TiO2 (x = 0.5, 1.5, 3.5, 5.5, 7.5, 9.5, 11.5) were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), field scanning transmission electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high-resolution TEM (HRTEM), nitrogen adsorption instrument, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV-Visible diffuse reflectance spectra and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The photocatalytic activity performance of the pHx-T500-TiO2 samples was also investigated. The results showed that as-prepared pH3.5-T500-TiO2 nanocrystal with exposed {101} facets exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity (95.75%) in the process of photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO), which was 1.1, 1.2, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.6, 10.7, 15.1 and 27.8 fold higher than that of pH5.5-T500-TiO2 (89.47%), P25-TiO2 (81.16%), pH9.5-T500-TiO2 (79.41%), pH7.5-T500-TiO2 (73.53%), pH0.5-T500-TiO2 (69.10%), CM-TiO2 (61.09%), pH11.5-T500-TiO2 (8.99%), pH1.5-T500-TiO2 (6.33%) and the Blank (3.44%) sample, respectively. The highest photocatalytic activity of pH3.5-T500-TiO2 could be attributed to the synergistic effects of its anatase phase structure, the smallest particle size, the largest specific surface area and exposed {101} facets.
Long-Term Characteristics of Human-Derived Biliary Organoids under a Single Continuous Culture Condition
Authors: Aktas Ranan G. , Karski Michael , Issac Biju , Sun Liang , Rockowitz Shira , Sliz Piotr , Vakili Khashayar
Published: November 2022

Organoids have been used to investigate the three-dimensional (3D) organization and function of their respective organs. These self-organizing 3D structures offer a distinct advantage over traditional two-dimensional (2D) culture techniques by creating a more physiologically relevant milieu to study complex biological systems. The goal of this study was to determine the feasibility of establishing organoids from various pediatric liver diseases and characterize the long-term evolution of cholangiocyte organoids (chol-orgs) under a single continuous culture condition. We established chol-orgs from 10 different liver conditions and characterized their multicellular organization into complex epithelial structures through budding, merging, and lumen formation. Immunofluorescent staining, electron microscopy, and single-nucleus RNA (snRNA-seq) sequencing confirmed the cholangiocytic nature of the chol-orgs. There were significant cell population differences in the transcript profiles of two-dimensional and organoid cultures based on snRNA-seq. Our study provides an approach for the generation and long-term maintenance of chol-orgs from various pediatric liver diseases under a single continuous culture condition.
IL-5 and GM-CSF, but Not IL-3, Promote the Proliferative Properties of Inflammatory-like and Lung Resident-like Eosinophils in the Blood of Asthma Patients
Authors: Palacionyte Jolita , Januskevicius Andrius , Vasyle Egle , Rimkunas Airidas , Bajoriuniene Ieva , Miliauskas Skaidrius , Malakauskas Kestutis
Published: November 2022

Blood eosinophils can be described as inflammatory-like (iEOS-like) and lung-resident-like (rEOS-like) eosinophils. This study is based on the hypothesis that eosinophilopoetins such as interleukin (IL)-3 and IL-5 and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) alter the proliferative properties of eosinophil subtypes and may be associated with the expression of their receptors on eosinophils. We investigated 8 individuals with severe nonallergic eosinophilic asthma (SNEA), 17 nonsevere allergic asthma (AA), and 11 healthy subjects (HS). For AA patients, a bronchial allergen challenge with Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus was performed. Eosinophils were isolated from peripheral blood using high-density centrifugation and magnetic separation methods. The subtyping of eosinophils was based on magnetic bead-conjugated antibodies against L-selectin. Preactivation by eosinophilopoetins was performed by incubating eosinophil subtypes with IL-3, IL-5, and GM-CSF, and individual combined cell cultures were prepared with airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells. ASM cell proliferation was assessed using an Alamar blue assay. The gene expression of eosinophilopoetin receptors was analyzed with a qPCR. IL-5 and GM-CSF significantly enhanced the proliferative properties of iEOS-like and rEOS-like cells on ASM cells in both SNEA and AA groups compared with eosinophils not activated by cytokines (p < 0.05). Moreover, rEOS-like cells demonstrated a higher gene expression of the IL-3 and IL-5 receptors compared with iEOS-like cells in the SNEA and AA groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion: IL-5 and GM-CSF promote the proliferative properties of iEOS-like and rEOS-like eosinophils; however, the effect of only IL-5 may be related to the expression of its receptors in asthma patients.
Role of Liver CD38 in the Regulation of Metabolic Pathways during Cold-Induced Thermogenesis in Mice
Authors: Benzi Andrea , Spinelli Sonia , Sturla Laura , Heine Markus , Fischer Alexander W. , Koch-Nolte Friedrich , Mittrücker Hans-Willi , Guse Andreas H. , De Flora Antonio , Heeren Joerg , Bruzzone Santina
Published: November 2022

Boosting NAD+ levels are considered a promising means to promote healthy aging and ameliorate dysfunctional metabolism. The expression of CD38, the major NAD+-consuming enzyme, is downregulated during thermogenesis in both brown and white adipose tissues (BAT and WAT). Moreover, BAT activation and WAT “browning” were enhanced in Cd38−/− mice. In this study, the role of CD38 in the liver during thermogenesis was investigated, with the liver being the central organ controlling systemic energy metabolism. Wild-type mice and Cd38−/− mice were exposed to cold temperatures, and levels of metabolites and enzymes were measured in the livers and plasma. During cold exposure, CD38 expression was downregulated in the liver, as in BAT and WAT, with a concomitant increase in NAD(H) and a marked decrease in NADPH levels. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and the malic enzyme, along with enzymes in the glycolytic pathway, were downregulated, which is in line with glucose-6-P being re-directed towards glucose release. In Cd38−/− mice, the cross-regulation between glycolysis and glucose release was lost, although this did not impair the glucose release from glycogen. Glycerol levels were decreased in the liver from Cd38−/− animals upon cold exposure, suggesting that glyceroneogenesis, as gluconeogenesis, was not properly activated in the absence of CD38. SIRT3 activity, regulating mitochondrial metabolism, was enhanced by cold exposure, whereas its activity was already high at a warm temperature in Cd38−/− mice and was not further increased by the cold. Notably, FGF21 and bile acid release was enhanced in the liver of Cd38−/− mice, which might contribute to enhanced BAT activation in Cd38−/− mice. These results demonstrate that CD38 inhibition can be suggested as a strategy to boost NAD+ and would not negatively affect hepatic functions during thermogenesis.