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Safety Culture Lessons Learned in Decommissioning VTT’s FiR 1 Research Reactor
This chapter presents safety culture lessons learned from the decommissioning of the FiR 1 research reactor in Finland, the first nuclear facility to be decommissioned in the country. The authors reflect on their experience as leaders and safety culture experts in the decommissioning project and discuss the following four topics: the organizational and cultural aspects of the decommissioning strategy, the organizational identity, the changes in working practices and mindset, and the interfaces with external parties. The chapter provides practical recommendations and lessons learned for each topic
Making the Invisible Visible - AR supported situation awareness in the snow groomer operations
Re-straining induced triggering of Portevin-Le Chatelier effect in recrystallized 2198 T3 and T8 aluminium alloy: Experimental observations and FE simulations for smooth and notched samples
The susceptibility of 2198 Al-Cu-Li alloys to the Portevin-Le Chatelier (PLC) effect was investigated under various testing conditions, including constant strain rate, relaxation, and strain rate jump tests on tensile specimens. The localisation behaviour in the naturally aged state (T3R) was compared with that in the artificially aged state (T8R) using digital image correlation (DIC). Additionally, the triggering of the PLC effect following a change in the strain path was observed. The T8R grade, which contains various precipitates, exhibits no localisation across temperatures from -50 to 80 °C. In contrast, localisations are observed in the T3R grade, which lacks precipitates, suggesting that Dynamic Strain ageing (DSA) is still the dominant mechanism responsible for serrated yielding, rather than precipitate shearing. A McCormick-type macroscopic elastoviscoplastic model, implemented in a finite element solver, was calibrated with experimental data to simulate the effects of different loading conditions on tensile specimens. The triggering effect and spatio-temporal patterns were well captured compared to DIC results for both T3R and T8R grades. The model was also employed to simulate the early plasticity during tearing tests of flat compact-tension-like samples in order to make a direct comparison with laminography-DVC (Digital Volume Correlation) experiments. Slant localisation patterns ahead of the notch are predicted by these models but are more mobile than those observed in laminography-DVC experiments of previous studies. The differences between constant strain rate and interruptive loading conditions are evidenced. Interestingly, even for the material in artificially aged T8 condition, strain bands were predicted ahead of the notch after restraining
3.0 Strategies for Yeast Genetic Improvement in Brewing and Winemaking
Yeast genetic improvement is entering a transformative phase, driven by the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, and synthetic microbial communities with conventional methods such as sexual breeding and random mutagenesis. These advancements have substantially expanded the potential for innovative re-engineering of yeast, ranging from single-strain cultures to complex polymicrobial consortia. This review compares traditional genetic manipulation techniques with cutting-edge approaches, highlighting recent breakthroughs in their application to beer and wine fermentation. Among the innovative strategies, adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) stands out as a non-GMO method capable of rewiring complex fitness-related phenotypes through iterative selection. In contrast, GMO-based synthetic biology approaches, including the most recent developments in CRISPR/Cas9 technologies, enable efficient and scalable genome editing, including multiplexed modifications. These innovations are expected to accelerate product development, reduce costs, and enhance the environmental sustainability of brewing and winemaking. However, despite their technological potential, GMO-based strategies continue to face significant regulatory and market challenges, which limit their widespread adoption in the fermentation industry.</p
Machine Learning Applications in Sustainable Construction Materials: A Scientometrics Review of Global Trends, Themes, and Future Directions
The integration of machine learning (ML) into sustainable construction materials research, particularly focusing on construction and demolition waste (CDW), has accelerated in recent years, driven by the dual need for digital innovation and environmental responsibility. This study presents a comprehensive scientometric analysis of the global research landscape on ML applications for predicting the performance of sustainable construction materials. A total of 542 publications (2007–2025) were retrieved from Scopus and analyzed using VOSviewer (V1.6.20) and Biblioshiny (Bibliometrix R-package, V5.1.1) to map publication trends, leading sources, key authors, keyword co-occurrence, and emerging thematic clusters. The results reveal a sharp rise in publications after 2018, peaking in 2024, in parallel with the growing global emphasis on the circular economy and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Leading journals such as Construction and Building Materials, the Journal of Building Engineering, and Materials have emerged as key publication venues. Keyword analysis identified core research areas, including compressive strength prediction, recycled aggregates, and ML algorithm development, with recent trends showing increasing use of ensemble and deep learning methods. The findings highlight three thematic pillars—Performance Characterization, Algorithmic Modeling, and Sustainability Practices—underscoring the interdisciplinary nature of the field. This study also highlights regional disparities in research output and collaboration, underscoring the need for more inclusive and diverse global partnerships. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive and insightful view of the rapidly evolving ML-CDW research landscape, offering valuable guidance for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in advancing data-driven, sustainable solutions for the future of construction
Molecular Dynamics of the Intrinsically Disordered Protein COR15A─A Force Field Validation on Structure and Dynamics
Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) pose a challenge for structural characterization, as experimental methods lack the subnanometer/subnanosecond resolution to capture their dynamic conformational ensembles. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations can, in principle, provide this information, but for the simulation of IDPs, dedicated protein and water force fields are needed, as traditional MD models for folded proteins prove inadequate for IDPs. Substantial effort was invested to develop IDP-specific force fields, but their performance in describing IDPs that undergo conformational changes─such as those induced by molecular partner binding or changes in solution environment─remains underexplored. In this study, we investigated the ability of 20 MD models to accurately simulate structural and dynamic aspects of COR15A, an IDP just on the verge of folding, with a particular focus on their ability to capture subtle structural differences. We employ a two-step approach: (i) validation of short 200 ns simulations against small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) data and (ii) detailed evaluation of the six best-performing MD models through extended 1.2 μs MD simulations against nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data, including a single-point mutant with slightly increased helicity. Only DES-amber and ff99SBws capture helicity differences between wild-type and mutant, but ff99SBws overestimates helicity. Notably, only DES-amber adequately reproduces the COR15A dynamics, as assessed by NMR relaxation times at two different magnetic field strengths. Among the tested force fields, DES-amber emerges as the best MD model for the simulation of COR15A. Its application provides insights into its dynamic conformational landscape, albeit not perfectly reproducing all experimental data. Our study highlights the need for rigorous force field validation for IDPs and identifies remaining discrepancies in need of further force-field development.</p
Logistics 5.0: Biosocial–technical interactions in logistics
Purpose – There is an ongoing transition from Industry 4.0 and Logistics 4.0 to Industry 5.0 and Logistics 5.0, which highlights the need not to exceed planetary boundaries. This motivates increased consideration of biological issues related to logistics. The purpose of this paper is to explain a new framing of logistics that emphasizes the importance of biological issues. Design/methodology/approach – Exploratory research comprising three activities. Critical review of current framings. Survey research of biological, social and technological trends in African logistics. Formulation of propositions that were validated through negative case (NC) analysis. Findings – Existing framings were found not to encompass biological, social and technological issues together. Lack of explicit consideration of biological issues in African logistics highlights the need for increased emphasis on biological issues. NC analysis validated seven propositions for a new framing: biosocial–technical interactions in logistics. Practical implications – Biosocial–technical interactions in logistics should be considered throughout the world. For example, the expansion of logistics infrastructure can contribute to the loss of species habitats. Habitat loss can contribute to species migrations that can contribute to the emergence of zoonotic diseases, which can disrupt global supply chains. Originality/value – Framing is important because framing effects decisions. Moreover, erroneous framing can provide an enduring rationale for a failing course of action, such as industrialization that exceeds planetary boundaries. Here, to better situate logistics in human development within planetary boundaries, a new framing of logistics is explained that encompasses biosocial–technical interactions.</p
Navigating the old and the new of anti-nutritional factors:A comprehensive and critical exploration of sustainable protein-rich ingredients and innovative processing techniques
Background: Anti-nutritional factors (ANFs) are a key consideration in the development of novel, sustainable, protein-rich ingredients, as their levels are influenced by both ingredient selection and food processing techniques. Scope and approach: This review, part of the Giant Leaps Horizon Europe-co-funded project, examines the chemical characterization, biological effects, and mechanisms of action of ANFs in a diverse range of alternative protein sources, including legumes, insects, algae, and microbial biomass. This study assesses how traditional and innovative food processing methods, such as fermentation, germination, enzymes, extrusion, affect ANF activity and the nutritional quality of alternative ingredients. Key findings and conclusions: Innovative processing can mitigate the adverse effects of ANFs while preserving or even enhancing the health-promoting properties of foods. However, limitations and inconsistencies in current analytical methods for quantifying ANFs can lead to a misrepresentation of their levels, activity, processing stability, and bioactivity, thereby impacting the nutritional quality of ingredients. Furthermore, the interactions between ANFs and the gut microbiota are considered, particularly on the production of bioactive compounds like short-chain fatty acids. In conclusion, this review underscores the critical need for further research into ANF dynamics and the development of improved analytical methods. Accurate data on ANF levels are crucial for effective safety assessments and for ensuring that alternative protein ingredients are not nutritionally inferior. Ultimately, consumer trust in the safety and nutrition of novel foods is essential for their market acceptance and for advancing the transition towards sustainable food systems that address global environmental issues.</p
Stakeholder perspectives on digital product passports for construction products
This paper explores the potential of the digital product passport (DPP) for advancing circularity in the construction sector, in line with the goals of Sustainable Product Initiative and the Construction Products Regulation. Despite its presumed implication for circularity, significant knowledge gaps remain, especially within the construction industry. To address these, the study utilizes semi-structured interviews and a survey to identify the benefits of the DPP, the data needs of key stakeholders, the barriers to implementation as well as the conditions related to efficient implementation. Findings suggest that manufacturing, usage, life-cycle and end-of-life data may form a foundational framework. Key stakeholders identified benefits such as improved traceability and resource efficiency, as well as the potential of integrating with building information modeling, alongside challenges including intellectual property concerns. The study concludes that the DPP should be tailored to each product group, with an optimal level of detail that balances intellectual property while ensuring transparency. Future research should refine the framework by identifying more specific data within each data type
Tutkimusraportti: CEMIS-UDDA
Raportissa kuvataan EAKR-rahoitteisen UDDA-hankkeen (Urheilun data ja digitalisaatio: Uutta osaamista ja lisäarvoa Kainuuseen ja Vuokatin hiihtokeskittymälle) työpaketti 1:n toteutusta. Raportissa keskitytään perinteisen tyylin rullasuksianturoinnin suunnitteluun, toteutukseen ja testaukseen. Anturointi perustuu venymäliuskoihin, joilla mitataan hiihtäjän tuottamat pysty- ja pitkittäisvoimat laboratorio-olosuhteissa hiihtomatolla. Suunnittelussa hyödynnettiin 3D-mallinnusta ja FEM-simulointeja. Pystyvoima mitataan suksirunkoon syntyvästä leikkausvoimasta ja pitkittäisvoima etuakseliin kohdistuvasta momentista. Anturoinnit testattiin VTT MIKES Kajaanin voima- ja vääntömomenttilaboratoriossa. Toteutettu anturointi täytti vaatimusmäärittelyn ja saavutti hyvän herkkyyden sekä pienen ylikuuluvuuden mittauskanavien välillä. Anturi luovutettiin Jyväskylän yliopiston Vuokatin liikuntateknologian yksikölle, jossa se sai erinomaista palautetta hiihdettävyydestään