Physical Integrity Research Articles

Piezoelectric nanomaterials are gaining prominence in biomedicine, showing remarkable potential due to their ultrasonic response properties and unique physical and chemical characteristics. However, the core mechanism, especially the interdisciplinary interactions between nanoparticles and cells, is still ambiguous, thus impeding further applications. In this Perspective, the piezo-bio interaction interface is presented as a key for unlocking interaction mechanisms and regulating cellular behaviors. The brief principles of piezoelectricity are summarized, surface electric field and interface engineering, then analyzethe underlying interaction mechanisms at the interface from both physical and chemical perspectives. On these basis, a detailed discussion is conducted on how to manipulate biological processes by regulating crucial biomolecules through piezo-bio interaction interfaces. Finally, the beneficial outlooks are presented to enlighten the brand-new applications of piezo-bio interaction interfaces in both fundamental research and biomedical applications. Hopefully, this Perspective can foster the interdisciplinary integration of materials science, physics, chemistry, and biology, further inspiring the advances of piezoelectric nanomaterials in biomedicine.

Functional reorganization and systemic toxicity induced by microplastics and climate-relevant stressors in Tribolium castaneum: Are we simulating tomorrow's toxic reality?

The current study is aimed to develop and evaluate dispersible tablets of Ethionamide, a second line anti-tubercular drug, for increasing patient compliance and therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of multidrug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). However, ethionamide is not well tolerated due to adverse gastrointestinal effects and bioavailability problems. Accordingly, dispersible tablet formulations with different concentration of excipients such as Crospovidone (as superdisintegrant), PVP K30, Maize starch and Microcrystalline cellulose were formulated by the direct compression method to achieve its quick disintegration and uniform drug dissolution. The prepared batches (F1–F7) were analyzed for weight variation, hardness, friability, thickness, drug content, disintegration time, dissolution test and stability studies. Furthermore, F6 had the best results from all prepared formulae with disintegration time of 45 ± 2 s, friability of only 0.763 ± 0.096% drug content of 99.75 ± 0.74%, and cumulative amount released within first 15 min to be (98.74%). Drug release kinetics was found to fit a Higuchi model (R² = 0.994) and the drug exhibited close to zeroorder pattern of release (R² = 0.989), suggesting diffusion-controlled pattern of drug release. Stability studies as per ICH guidelines indicated that the optimized batch lost its physical and chemical integrity under accelerated conditions (40°C/75% RH) for 3 months.The study reveals that the optimized Formulation F6 of Ethionamide dispersible tablet is a fast disintegrating, stable and effective dosage form, which can be a potential way to improve patient compliance, especially in pediatric and geriatric patients who have difficulty in swallowing.

In this article, we investigate fault-tolerant and resilient control approaches for cyber-physical systems within a unified control and detection framework. Particularly, a novel strategy is presented to simultaneously detect and accommodate anomalies in cyber-physical systems subject to multiplicative physical faults and additive integrity cyberattacks. An observer-based cyber-secure system configuration is first analyzed by means of the coprime factorization technique, wherein multiplicative faults are characterized by coprime factor uncertainties. It is revealed that fault- and cyberattack-induced variations possess distinct attributes with respect to the closed-loop dynamics. This observation motivates a collaborative detection scheme to distinguish both types of anomalies. Specifically, a performance-based fault detector is implemented on the plant side, delivering fault detection results to the monitoring and control (MC) side, where an observer-based attack detector operates collaboratively. Subsequently, the local and remote controllers are reconfigured to enhance the fault tolerance and attack resilience against faults and cyberattacks. To provide more independent design freedoms, the residual signal derived from the controller dynamics is incorporated into the Youla parameterization-based stabilizing controller. Finally, the proposed scheme is verified on a leader-follower robot system.

Antarctica, largely free from geopolitical borders, serves as a critical site for scientific research, environmental monitoring and climate studies. The continent’s ice cap holds over 60% of the Earth’s freshwater and provides a stable climatological record spanning 800,000 years. In this study, the relationship between changes in atmospheric CO2 levels over the past century and the microstructural characteristics of Antarctic ice was investigated. While it is well-documented that CO2 fluctuations have driven the periodic expansion and retreat of ice sheets, no research to this day has explored how variations in CO2 concentrations influence the physical integrity of ice at the microscopic scale. To address this, grain size, anisotropy, irregularity, and solidity of surface and near-surface ice samples collected over the past 70 years were analyzed. These microstructural features were compared against historical atmospheric greenhouse gas data from multiple Antarctic research stations, including records from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, the Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition, and the NOAA Global Monitoring Laboratory. Results reveal a correlation between rising CO2 levels and changes in ice microstructure, particularly an increase in the grain size as well as the reduction in the grain aspect ratio and in the morphological solidity. The study remains limited by significant sources of variability, including differences in sampling depths, geographical locations, seasonal effects, and inconsistencies in analytical tools and methodologies reported across the literature. Despite these limitations, this proof-of-concept study elicits the need for continued meta-analyses of existing climate datasets. Such efforts could provide deeper insights into the role of greenhouse gas concentrations in defining the microstructural stability of Antarctic ice, which is critical for predicting ice sheet integrity and its contribution to sea level rise.

The Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) estimated that by 2050, 36% industry-wide sustainable value will be created, which includes sequestering CO2 into the cement and concrete industry to produce commercially feasible high-value products. Direct utilization of CO2 in the cement and concrete industry, which utilizes natural and sustainable materials, is gaining momentum. Naturally occurring mixtures of hydro magnesite and huntite are important industrial minerals which, upon endothermic decomposition over a specific temperature range, will release water and CO2. This unique chemistry has led to such mixtures being successfully utilized as fire retardants, replacing aluminum hydroxide or Alumina Tri-Hydrate (ATH). Despite the developed marketplace for magnesium-based fire-retardant products, there is little mention of CO2 mineral carbonation methods, which attempt to recover and convert magnesium from natural seawater or industrial waste into oxides or carbonates as part of the carbon sequestration initiative. The hypothesis to be proven in this work states that if the process of seawater mineral carbonation is prematurely quenched, Mg2+ ionic species in seawater adsorbed on the calcite lattice formation will be trapped and therefore recovered in various oxidized forms, such as magnesium oxides, magnesium hydro magnesite, and magnesium carbonate precipitates. A novel method to recover magnesium Mg2+ ions from seawater was successfully explored and documented; as such, from an initial concentration of 1250 ppm Mg2+ in raw seawater, the average concentration of spent Mg2+ ions after the reaction was as low as 20 ppm. A very efficient near-total recovery of Mg2+ from the seawater into the solid precipitates was recorded. Subsequently, the process for continuous seawater mineral carbonation for the production of magnesium/brucite/huntite products was successfully proven and optimized to operate with a 30 s reaction time, a dynamic feedstock concentration, [CaO] at 1gpl in seawater and a room temperature reaction temperature (30 °C), where the average yield of the fire-retardant magnesium-based compounds was 26% of the synthesized precipitates. Approximately 5000 g of the hydro magnesite materials was molded into a fire-retardant brick or concrete wall, which was subjected to an accredited fire performance and durability testing procedure BS476-22:1987. There were encouraging results from the fire resistance testing, where the fire-retardant material passed BS476-22:1987, with performance criteria such as physical integrity failure, the maximum allowable face temperature, and a minimum duration before failure, which was up to 104 min, evaluated.

Purpose Models for determining the reliability and failure probability of a pressure vessel have been the subject of several studies based on probabilistic fracture mechanics (PFM). Possible failures in pressure vessels, usually catastrophic, have motivated researchers in this area, whose purpose was to improve the physical integrity of the vessel and, consequently, increase the safety and reduce costs in the oil industry. Design/methodology/approach The model approaches the reliability estimation and lifetime or remaining lifetime of spherical pressure vessels for storage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) by applying PFM. It selects data for all necessary variables for the model, adjusts the database to an acceptable probability distribution and then establishes a failure model to evaluate the failure probability and reliability according to the chosen criterion. It employs the Monte Carlo simulation technique. Findings This work can conclude that the influence of the environment on the lifetime or remaining lifetime of spherical pressure vessels for storage of LPG, when for the same steel (X65), sometimes exposed to air and sometimes to an environment containing H2S, significantly reduces reliability. Originality/value This work evaluates the behavior of the cyclic stresses along the vessel wall through meridional and latitudinal coordinates, according to the support type of the spherical pressure vessel. When combined with small amounts of H2S , it may accelerate fatigue crack propagation, since LPG can contain water and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a combination that is rarely found in specialized literature.

Background This study presents an interdisciplinary pedagogical approach aimed at contextualizing the teaching of classical mechanics through the computational analysis of Break Dance movements. Situated within a constructivist framework, the research explores how culturally embedded practices—specifically urban dance—can serve as a medium for fostering conceptual understanding of physics in non-formal educational settings. By leveraging the artistic and kinesthetic dimensions of Break Dance, the study seeks to bridge the gap between abstract scientific content and learners’ lived experiences. Method A mixed-method, exploratory design was employed with a purposive sample of ten dancers (aged 13–30) affiliated with a community-based urban dance school in Bogotá, Colombia. Over the course of six three-hour sessions, participants engaged in movement analysis using Tracker video software, supported by pre- and post-intervention semi-structured interviews. The research design incorporated thematic analysis to interpret qualitative data, complemented by the kinematic study of body movement parameters such as angular velocity and center of mass. Results Findings indicate a marked cognitive shift among participants from intuitive and superficial conceptions to a more technical and applied understanding of physics principles. The integration of computational tools allowed dancers to visualize and internalize biomechanical variables relevant to their performance. Participants reported enhanced bodily control, injury prevention, and aesthetic execution, alongside increased motivation and collaborative learning. Conclusions The study concludes that embedding scientific content within culturally relevant, embodied practices—mediated by educational technologies—can significantly enhance learning outcomes in physics. The use of Tracker software not only demystified abstract concepts but also redefined physics as accessible and contextually meaningful. These results underscore the pedagogical potential of transdisciplinary, arts-integrated methodologies to foster inclusive, situated, and cognitively rich science education in non-traditional environments.

Yoga, a holistic practice supporting both physical and mental integrity, has gained increasing attention in recent years as a public health–promoting activity. Particularly among women with spinal disorders (e.g., hernia, lordosis, scoliosis, kyphosis), yoga is recognized not only for improving physical functionality but also for contributing significantly to psychosocial parameters such as stress management, self-awareness, and life satisfaction. In this context, the present study aimed to explore the mental and physical outcomes of regular yoga practice in women diagnosed with spinal disorders, using qualitative methods. This study was conducted using a phenomenological design, as the participants had experienced the situation under investigation. It included semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 15 adult participants diagnosed with spinal disorders and with at least 3 months of yoga experience. In line with the nature of qualitative research, the number of participants was deemed sufficient, and it was accepted that data saturation was reached through the interviews conducted with 15 participants. The findings revealed multidimensional benefits, including mental and physical relaxation, improved stress management, postural enhancement, better quality of life, and increased self-compassion. Participants also highlighted the positive influence of yoga on body–mind balance, awareness of personal limits, and a deeper understanding of their condition. These results suggest that yoga functions both as a physical intervention and a psychological support mechanism for women with spinal disorders, promoting active engagement in their treatment process and enhancing public health outcomes. In conclusion, yoga practice was found to provide significant and sustainable contributions to spinal health and overall psychosocial well-being.

Corrosion is a critical problem that damages metal surfaces in different environments, with a significant economic impact and safety risks. It mainly affects industrial installations and people's physical integrity, which is why it is very important to detect it. In the present work, corrosion classification was carried out using image analysis with a library named LibAUC. In search of state-of-the-art, this library has been used in other areas, but not for corrosion. The methodology consisted of the following: collection of images, image preprocessing, modification of the library code for compatibility with updated libraries, adaptation of the deep model learning of melanoma classification for corrosion classification, execution of the model with training and validation images. The metric used for the performance of the model was the AUC (Area Under ROC), which achieved a value of 0.9973. It is concluded that the LibAUC library has a high performance for binary corrosion classification.

Simple SummaryLong-term storage of three-dimensional cell cultures is essential for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, yet freezing can damage these complex structures. We produced two sets of spherical aggregates of sheep skin cells, measuring about 140 and 220 μm in diameter, and preserved them by slow freezing in a solution containing dimethyl sulfoxide to limit ice formation. After thawing we quantified survival, energy metabolism, capacity to attach and spread on a surface, weight, mass density and diameter, and we examined genes that signal stress or cell death. Small aggregates rapidly regained normal metabolism, formed continuous cell layers within twenty-four hours and maintained both physical integrity and balanced gene activity. Large aggregates lost compactness and weight, showed extensive cell death in their centers and produced stable layers in only seventy-five per cent of samples. At the molecular level, cryopreservation upregulated stress-related genes such as HSPA1A (HSP70) and HSP90AB1, while downregulating the anti-apoptotic gene BCL2, These findings reveal a clear size threshold beyond which cryopreservation compromises viability, offering a practical guideline for building reliable cell banks that can advance wound-repair research, implant design and veterinary therapies.Cell spheroids are widely studied for their potential applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. The present work investigated the effects of cryopreservation on spheroids derived from ovine fibroblasts, depending on spheroid size (140 or 220 µm). Specifically, it explored how cryopreservation impacted several biological and physical parameters including cell damage, viability, metabolism, adhesion, proliferation, and spheroid mass density, weight, and diameter at three time points after thawing. A Live/Dead assay provided a visual assessment of cell damage, cell viability and metabolic activity were assessed by an Alamar Blue assay, and a replating assay evaluated cell adhesion and proliferation capabilities. Spheroid mass density, weight, and diameter were quantified by the W8 Biophysical Analyzer, creating accurate biophysical profiles. Real-time PCR (RT-PCR) analysis was employed to uncover gene expression changes following cryopreservation. Our findings indicate that spheroids measuring 140 µm in diameter largely maintained their biophysical features and cell viability post-cryopreservation, whereas those at 220 µm exhibited a decline in both vitality and mass density. The reduced vitality of 220 µm spheroids likely reflects size-related limitations in cryoprotectant diffusion and stress within the core. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of how cryopreservation affects ovine fibroblast spheroid biophysics and cellular integrity, laying the groundwork for improved preservation techniques for cell spheroids.

Background/Objectives: Innovative intranasal delivery systems have emerged as a strategy to overcome the limitations of conventional COVID-19 vaccines, including suboptimal mucosal immunity, limited antigen retention, and vaccine hesitancy. This study aimed to evaluate physicochemical properties and murine safety of a novel COVID-19 intranasal vaccine candidate based on CHIVAX 2.1 (CVX)-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs). Methods: The CVX recombinant protein was encapsulated into CNPs using the ionic gelation method. The nanoparticles were characterized by their physicochemical properties (mean size, zeta potential, morphology, and encapsulation efficiency) and spectroscopic profiles. Mucin adsorption and in vitro release profiles in simulated nasal fluid were also assessed. In vivo compatibility was evaluated through histopathological analysis of tissues in male C-57BL/6J mice following intranasal administration. Results: CNPs exhibited controlled size distribution (38.5–542.5 nm) and high encapsulation efficiency (65.4–92.2%). Zeta potential values supported colloidal stability. TEM analysis confirmed spherical morphology and successful CVX encapsulation, and immunogenic integrity was also demonstrated. Mucin adsorption analysis demonstrated effective nasal retention, particularly in particles ≈90 nm. In vitro release studies revealed a biphasic protein profile, where ≈80% of the recombinant protein was released within 2 h. Importantly, histopathological analyses and weight monitoring of intranasally immunized mice revealed no signs of adverse effects related to toxicity. Conclusions: The ionic gelation encapsulation process preserved the physical and immunological integrity of CVX antigen. Furthermore, the intranasal administration of the CVX-loaded CNPs demonstrated a favorable safety profile in vivo. These findings support the potential of the CVX intranasal vaccine formulation for further immunogenicity studies, with no apparent biosafety concerns.

This paper examines the advances and challenges of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems in Brazil, considering their potential in promoting sustainable urban mobility. Rapid urbanization and the predominance of private motorized transport have intensified the need for efficient, accessible, and environmentally sound collective transport solutions. BRT has emerged as a cost-effective alternative to rail systems, combining high capacity, lower implementation costs, and operational flexibility. The study focuses on three Brazilian cities (Rio de Janeiro, Belo Horizonte, and Fortaleza) selected for their regional diversity and distinct BRT models. Using the Delphi method, the analysis was structured around three dimensions: road infrastructure, transport planning and networks, and system operation and performance. Results indicate significant progress in terms of exclusive corridors, integration terminals, express services, and the adoption of Intelligent Transport Systems. However, structural gaps persist, particularly regarding incomplete infrastructure, weak integration between trunk and feeder lines, limited monitoring of feeder services, and insufficient adaptation of networks to urban dynamics. The findings highlight that the effectiveness of Brazilian BRT systems depends on strengthening feeder lines, improving physical and fare integration, and expanding sustainable infrastructure.

The origin of life initiated an evolutionary continuum yielding biologically optimized systems capable of operating under extreme environmental constraints. Biomimetics, defined as the systematic abstraction and transfer of biological principles into engineering domains, has become a strategic design paradigm for addressing the multifactorial challenges of space systems. This study introduces two core contributions to formally establish the discipline of Aerospace Bionic Robotics (ABR): First, it elucidates the relevance of biologically derived functionalities such as autonomy, adaptability, and multifunctionality to enhance the efficiency of space robotic platforms operating in microgravity environments. Second, it proposed the BEAM-D (Biomimetic Engineering and Aerospace Mechatronics Design), a standard for the development of Aerospace Bionic Robotics. By integrating biological abstraction levels (morphological, functional, and behavioral) with engineering protocols including ISO, VDI, and NASA’s TRL, BEAM-D enables a structured design pathway encompassing subsystem specification, cyber–physical integration, in situ testing, and full-scale mission deployment. It is implemented through a modular BEAM-DX framework and reinforced by iterative BIOX design steps. This study thus establishes formalized bio-inspired design tools for advanced orbital and planetary robotic systems capable of sustained autonomous operations in deep space exploration scenarios.

Abstract. Cities that have been continuously inhabited and embody the spatial traces of historical continuity are defined as “multi-layered”. The remnants of historical periods and cultures, which constitute the stratified layers of the city and the interconnections among them, contribute to the spatial complexity and identity of multi-layered cities. However, when these remnants are not perceivable or effectively integrated into the contemporary city, the conservation and long-term sustainability of multi-layeredness become increasingly challenging. This necessitates the documentation of historical layers and the synthesis of fragmentary information from diverse sources into a coherent and systematic framework. Thus, the aim is to make the components of different historical periods in various parts of the city known, and to understand and evaluate their relationship with the contemporary city both vertically and horizontally. Ankara, inhabited since prehistoric times and characterized by being a multi-layered city, was chosen as the study area. To produce comprehensive and usable information, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were utilized. GIS facilitates the processing of complex and voluminous data from diverse disciplinary sources. "MULAAN▪GIS [MUlti-LAyered ANkara GIS]" was produced by processing historical period components into the database, together with the attributes of the identity areas representing their period. This approach unveiled historical continuities and discontinuities, the physical, functional, visual, and intellectual integration levels, along with the challenges faced by citizens. The historical spatial dataset and integration degrees created in the GIS have the potential to serve as a spatial decision support system on heritage protection, thereby providing an input for spatial plans.

Abstract. Cultural heritage sites worldwide are increasingly vulnerable to disasters and climate-related risks, threatening their physical integrity and cultural value. In Malaysia, iconic sites such as Masjid Kampung Laut and Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad have experienced the impacts of such hazards. However, heritage conservation efforts in the country still largely rely on conventional methods, lacking the integration of advanced technologies like Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Building Information Modeling (BIM). These tools offer significant potential for comprehensive disaster risk assessments and proactive site management, yet their application remains limited. The absence of GIS and BIM in Conservation Management Plans (CMPs) has resulted in reactive conservation practices that leave heritage sites susceptible to irreversible damage caused by environmental threats and urban encroachment. This study investigates the sufficiency of technology adaptation in the monitoring criteria of Malaysia’s heritage management plans, particularly for sites located in disaster-prone areas. Employing a qualitative research design, the study conducts a detailed content review of selected CMPs and on-site observations of the two heritage sites. The findings reveal a significant gap in the incorporation of technology-driven risk assessment, indicating an urgent need for reform in the monitoring and conservation practices. The study highlights the importance of GIS in spatial risk classification and BIM in structural analysis and mitigation planning. Aligning with UNESCO’s “Managing Disaster Risk for World Heritage” manual, the study advocates for a technology-enriched conservation framework that promotes data-driven, predictive, and resilient strategies for safeguarding cultural heritage in Malaysia.

The present work aims to address medical violence against women in clinical and hospital contexts, with a focus on the hypotheses of civil, administrative, and criminal liability provided for in the Brazilian legal system. It is based on the constitutional protection of fundamental rights such as life, physical and moral integrity, sexual dignity, and consent, which are pillars of human dignity and demand effective enforcement by the State and society. The research distinguishes medical violence from medical error, highlighting that the former involves intentional or negligent acts that violate patients’ fundamental rights, causing physical, psychological, or moral harm. Although it can affect all genders, the study focuses on violence against women, exposing structural inequalities and practices such as obstetric violence and abuses in gynecological care. The methodology relies on bibliographic analysis of scientific articles, case law, legislation, and official documents related to physicians’ duties and responsibilities. Subcategories of violence with specific legal provisions were identified, stressing the importance of recognition for effective legal responses. Civil liability of health professionals in such cases is a sensitive and complex issue. The lack of specific legislation to punish medical violence remains a significant barrier to accountability. Therefore, articulation between civil, administrative, and criminal spheres is essential to prevent new occurrences, provide effective redress to victims, and strengthen the ethical and legal commitment of professionals.

A nationwide forensic case-series of femicides in Italy - Part 1: Clues to the motives of the murder.

Topological segmentation of mass spectrometry imaging data

Fabrication and characterization of novel β-sitosterol-loaded O/W Pickering emulsions stabilized by edible insects protein/chitosan complex coacervates: Retention and stability evaluation.