bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Different Immunocompetent Cell Populations in the Pathogenesis of Head and Neck Cancer—Regulatory Mechanisms of Pro- and Anti-Cancer Activity and Their Impact on Immunotherapy
Authors: Starska-Kowarska Katarzyna
Published: March 2023

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the most aggressive and heterogeneous groups of human neoplasms. HNSCC is characterized by high morbidity, accounting for 3% of all cancers, and high mortality with ~1.5% of all cancer deaths. It was the most common cancer worldwide in 2020, according to the latest GLOBOCAN data, representing the seventh most prevalent human malignancy. Despite great advances in surgical techniques and the application of modern combinations and cytotoxic therapies, HNSCC remains a leading cause of death worldwide with a low overall survival rate not exceeding 40–60% of the patient population. The most common causes of death in patients are its frequent nodal metastases and local neoplastic recurrences, as well as the relatively low response to treatment and severe drug resistance. Much evidence suggests that the tumour microenvironment (TME), tumour infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and circulating various subpopulations of immunocompetent cells, such regulatory T cells (CD4+CD25+Foxp3+Tregs), cytotoxic CD3+CD8+ T cells (CTLs) and CD3+CD4+ T helper type 1/2/9/17 (Th1/Th2/Th9/Th17) lymphocytes, T follicular helper cells (Tfh) and CD56dim/CD16bright activated natural killer cells (NK), carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), tumour-associated neutrophils (N1/N2 TANs), as well as tumour-associated macrophages (M1/M2 phenotype TAMs) can affect initiation, progression and spread of HNSCC and determine the response to immunotherapy. Rapid advances in the field of immuno-oncology and the constantly growing knowledge of the immunosuppressive mechanisms and effects of tumour cancer have allowed for the use of effective and personalized immunotherapy as a first-line therapeutic procedure or an essential component of a combination therapy for primary, relapsed and metastatic HNSCC. This review presents the latest reports and molecular studies regarding the anti-tumour role of selected subpopulations of immunocompetent cells in the pathogenesis of HNSCC, including HPV+ve (HPV+) and HPV−ve (HPV−) tumours. The article focuses on the crucial regulatory mechanisms of pro- and anti-tumour activity, key genetic or epigenetic changes that favour tumour immune escape, and the strategies that the tumour employs to avoid recognition by immunocompetent cells, as well as resistance mechanisms to T and NK cell-based immunotherapy in HNSCC. The present review also provides an overview of the pre- and clinical early trials (I/II phase) and phase-III clinical trials published in this arena, which highlight the unprecedented effectiveness and limitations of immunotherapy in HNSCC, and the emerging issues facing the field of HNSCC immuno-oncology.
Tumor-Stroma Ratio in Basaloid and Conventional Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Prognostic Significance and Concordance in Paired Biopsies and Surgical Samples
Authors: Marioni Gino , Taboni Stefano , Sbaraglia Marta , Franz Leonardo , Saccardo Tommaso , Colombo Anna , Zimello Camilla , Frigo Anna Chiara , Ferrari Marco , Alessandrini Lara
Published: March 2023

Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma (BSCC) is a subtype of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) associated with a poor prognosis. Tumor–stroma ratio (TSR) has been introduced as a prognostic feature in many solid tumors. TSR was investigated in a series of laryngeal BSCCs and compared with a group of stage-matched conventional SCCs (cSCCs), in both preoperative and surgical specimens, with the intent of ascertaining the more aggressive behavior of BSCC and verifying the presence of stromal-related causes. A series of 14 consecutive laryngeal BSCCs and a control group of 28 stage-matched conventional cSCCs were analyzed. A higher nodal metastasis presence was found in BSCCs (57.1% vs. 28.6%). The recurrence rate was 33.5% and 63.6% in the cSCC and BSCC groups; disease-free survival (DFS) was higher, though not significantly, in patients with cSCC. TSR, large cell nests, and tumor budding showed a moderate to very good agreement, and stroma type a good to very good agreement between biopsies and surgical specimens in the cSCC group. In the BSCC group, agreement was poor to very good for TSR and stroma type, and good to very good for large cell nests and tumor budding. Age was the only feature significant in predicting recurrence in the BSCC group (p = 0.0235). In cSCC, TSR low/stroma rich cases, when evaluated on biopsies or surgical specimens, were associated with lower DFS (p = 0.0036; p = 0.0041, respectively). Laryngeal BSCCs showed a lower DFS than cSCCs, even if statistical significance was not reached. TSR, evaluated in laryngeal biopsies and excised tumors, was prognostic in terms of DFS in cSCC but not in BSCC cases.
Immunotherapy for Solid Tumors
Authors: de Saint Basile Hortense , Maaradji Zineb , Fabre Elizabeth
Published: March 2023

The development of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) constitutes a major therapeutic advance in the treatment of a number of malignancies [...]
CHEK2 Alterations in Pediatric Malignancy: A Single-Institution Experience
Authors: Abdelghani Eman , Schieffer Kathleen M. , Cottrell Catherine E. , Audino Anthony , Zajo Kristin , Shah Nilay
Published: March 2023

Background: Approximately 10% of pediatric malignancies are secondary to germline alterations in cancer-predisposing genes. Checkpoint kinase 2 (CHEK2) germline loss-of-function variants have been reported in pediatric cancer patients, but clinical phenotypes and outcomes are poorly described. We present our single-institution experience of pediatric oncology patients with CHEK2 germline alterations, including clinical presentations and outcomes. Methods: Pediatric oncology patients with CHEK2 germline alterations were identified among those assessed by clinical or translational research at the Institute for Genomic Medicine at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. A chart review of disease course was conducted on identified patients. Results: We identified 6 patients with germline CHEK2 variants from a cohort of 300 individuals, including 1 patient with concurrent presentation of Burkitt lymphoma and neuroblastoma, 3 patients with brain tumors, 1 patient with Ewing sarcoma, and 1 patient with myelodysplastic syndrome. Three patients had a family history of malignancies. Four patients were in remission; one was undergoing treatment; one patient had developed treatment-related meningiomas. We review prior data regarding CHEK2 variants in this population, challenges associated with variant interpretation, and genetic counseling for individuals with CHEK2 variants. Conclusions: CHEK2 germline loss-of-function alterations occur in patients with a variety of pediatric tumors. Larger multicenter studies will improve our understanding of the incidence, phenotype, and molecular biology of CHEK2 germline variants in pediatric cancers.
Toward Intraoperative Margin Assessment Using a Deep Learning-Based Approach for Automatic Tumor Segmentation in Breast Lumpectomy Ultrasound Images
Authors: Veluponnar Dinusha , de Boer Lisanne L. , Geldof Freija , Jong Lynn-Jade S. , Da Silva Guimaraes Marcos , Vrancken Peeters Marie-Jeanne T. F. D. , van Duijnhoven Frederieke , Ruers Theo , Dashtbozorg Behdad
Published: March 2023

There is an unmet clinical need for an accurate, rapid and reliable tool for margin assessment during breast-conserving surgeries. Ultrasound offers the potential for a rapid, reproducible, and non-invasive method to assess margins. However, it is challenged by certain drawbacks, including a low signal-to-noise ratio, artifacts, and the need for experience with the acquirement and interpretation of images. A possible solution might be computer-aided ultrasound evaluation. In this study, we have developed new ensemble approaches for automated breast tumor segmentation. The ensemble approaches to predict positive and close margins (distance from tumor to margin ≤ 2.0 mm) in the ultrasound images were based on 8 pre-trained deep neural networks. The best optimum ensemble approach for segmentation attained a median Dice score of 0.88 on our data set. Furthermore, utilizing the segmentation results we were able to achieve a sensitivity of 96% and a specificity of 76% for predicting a close margin when compared to histology results. The promising results demonstrate the capability of AI-based ultrasound imaging as an intraoperative surgical margin assessment tool during breast-conserving surgery.
Pragmatic, Prospective Comparative Effectiveness Trial of Carbon Ion Therapy, Surgery, and Proton Therapy for the Management of Pelvic Sarcomas (Soft Tissue/Bone) Involving the Bone: The PROSPER Study Rationale and Design
Authors: Hoppe Bradford S. , Petersen Ivy A. , Wilke Benjamin K. , DeWees Todd A. , Imai Reiko , Hug Eugen B. , Fiore Maria Rosaria , Debus Jürgen , Fossati Piero , Yamada Shigeru , Orlandi Ester , Zhang Qing , Bao Cihang , Seidensaal Katharina , May Byron C. , Harrell Anna C. , Houdek Matthew T. , Vallow Laura A. , Rose Peter S. , Haddock Michael G. , Ashman Jonathan B. , Goulding Krista A. , Attia Steven , Krishnan Sunil , Mahajan Anita , Foote Robert L. , Laack Nadia N. , Keole Sameer R. , Beltran Chris J. , Welch Eric M. , Karim Mohammed , Ahmed Safia K.
Published: March 2023

Surgical treatment of pelvic sarcoma involving the bone is the standard of care but is associated with several sequelae and reduced functional quality of life (QOL). Treatment with photon and proton radiotherapy is associated with relapse. Carbon ion radiotherapy (CIRT) may reduce both relapse rates and treatment sequelae. The PROSPER study is a tricontinental, nonrandomized, prospective, three-arm, pragmatic trial evaluating treatments of pelvic sarcoma involving the bone. Patients aged at least 15 years are eligible for inclusion. Participants must have an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status score of two or less, newly diagnosed disease, and histopathologic confirmation of pelvic chordoma, chondrosarcoma, osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma with bone involvement, rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) with bone involvement, or non-RMS soft tissue sarcoma with bone involvement. Treatment arms include (1) CIRT (n = 30) delivered in Europe and Asia, (2) surgical treatment with or without adjuvant radiotherapy (n = 30), and (3) proton therapy (n = 30). Arms two and three will be conducted at Mayo Clinic campuses in Arizona, Florida, and Minnesota. The primary end point is to compare the 1-year change in functional QOL between CIRT and surgical treatment. Additional comparisons among the three arms will be made between treatment sequelae, local control, and other QOL measures.
Low-Baseline PD1+ Granulocytes Predict Responses to Atezolizumab–Bevacizumab in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Giovannini Catia , Suzzi Fabrizia , Tovoli Francesco , Bruccoleri Mariangela , Marseglia Mariarosaria , Alimenti Eleonora , Fornari Francesca , Iavarone Massimo , Piscaglia Fabio , Gramantieri Laura
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Immune check point inhibitors have recently entered the armamentarium of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment. Among them, the combination of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab has pushed it a step forward; however, a number of patients still present primary non-responses without any biomarker to predict responses to different options. Here, we aimed to identify a putative baseline biomarker to predict the response to atezolizumab–bevacizumab, by investigating whether baseline PD1+ and PD-L1+ peripheral granulocyte percentages might offer a non-invasive, cheap, and easily feasible assay. Methods: A prospective Italian cohort of 34 patients treated by atezolizumab–bevacizumab was tested to assay the baseline percentage of peripheral granulocytes and their PD1 and PD-L1 expression. The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was also considered, and all data were compared with the clinical course of patients. Results: A low-baseline PD1+ peripheral granulocyte percentage turned out to predict responder patients (mean ±SD of PD1+ granulocyte percentage in responders versus non-responders: 9.9 ± 9.1 vs. 29.2 ± 17.6; student’s t-test, p < 0.01). In line, patients identified by a low PD1+ granulocyte percentage displayed a longer TTP (log-rank test, p < 0.0001). A lower granulocyte percentage on total white blood cells, irrespective of PD1 or PD-L1 expression, is also associated with responses to atezolizumab–bevacizumab (log-rank test, p < 0.05). No predictive value was observed for either the PD-L1+ granulocyte percentage or NLR. Conclusions: A low-baseline PD1+ peripheral granulocyte percentage is associated with responses to atezolizumab–bevacizumab treatment in advanced HCC. These findings encourage evaluating this minimally invasive, cheap, and easy test in further independent cohorts and outlining the relevance of innate immunity in the response to immune-checkpoint inhibitors.
Photodegradation of Ciprofloxacin and Levofloxacin by Au@ZnONPs-MoS2-rGO Nanocomposites
Authors: Machín Abniel , Soto-Vázquez Loraine , García Diego , Cotto María C. , Ortiz Dayna , Berríos-Rolón Pedro J. , Fontánez Kenneth , Resto Edgard , Morant Carmen , Petrescu Florian , Márquez Francisco
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to investigate the photocatalytic performance of diverse zinc oxide catalysts containing gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) toward the degradation of the antibiotics levofloxacin (LFX) and ciprofloxacin (CFX) in aqueous solutions. The obtained results demonstrate that LFX is more resistant to degradation when compared with CFX and that the principal route of degradation under visible light is the formation of hydroxyl radicals. Photoluminescence (PL) measurements were employed to verify the inhibitory effect of electron–hole recombination when AuNPs, MoS2, and rGO are integrated into a semiconductor. The catalyst that achieved the highest percentage of CFX degradation was 1%Au@ZnONPs-3%MoS2-1%rGO, exhibiting a degradation efficiency of 96%, while the catalyst that exhibited the highest percentage of LFX degradation was 5%Au@ZnONPs-3%MoS2-1%rGO, displaying a degradation efficiency of 99.8%. A gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis enabled the identification of reaction intermediates, facilitating the determination of a potential degradation pathway for both antibiotics. Additionally, recyclability assessments showed that the synthesized catalysts maintained stable photocatalytic efficiencies after 15 cycles, indicating that the heterostructures have the potential for further usage and may be tested with other organic contaminants as well.
Bioinformatic miRNA-mRNAs Analysis Revels to miR-934 as a Potential Regulator of the Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Contreras-Rodríguez Jorge Alberto , Puente-Rivera Jonathan , Córdova-Esparza Diana Margarita , Nuñez-Olvera Stephanie I. , Silva-Cázares Macrina Beatriz
Published: March 2023

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most aggressive subtypes of breast cancer and has the worst prognosis. In patients with TNBC tumors, the tumor cells have been reported to have mesenchymal features, which help them migrate and invade. Various studies on cancer have revealed the importance of microRNAs (miRNAs) in different biological processes of the cell in that aberrations, in their expression, lead to alterations and deregulations in said processes, giving rise to tumor progression and aggression. In the present work, we determined the miRNAs that are deregulated in the epithelial–mesenchymal transition process in breast cancer. We discovered that 25 miRNAs that regulate mesenchymal genes are overexpressed in patients with TNBC. We found that miRNA targets modulate different processes and pathways, such as apoptosis, FoxO signaling pathways, and Hippo. We also found that the expression level of miR-934 is specific to the molecular subtype of the triple-negative breast cancer and modulates a set of related epithelial–mesenchymal genes. We determined that miR-934 inhibition in TNBC cell lines inhibits the migratory abilities of tumor cells.
Fabrication of Nanoparticle Agglomerate Films by Spark Ablation and Their Application in Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Pál Petra , Horváth Viktória , Juhász Laura , Kóródi Zoltán , Kohut Attila , Csarnovics Istvan
Published: March 2023

This paper presents a systematic study of the investigation of nanoparticle (NP) agglomerate films fabricated via depositing spark-generated Au, Ag, and Au/Ag NPs onto quartz microscope coverslips in a low-pressure inertial impactor. The primary focus of the study is to characterize these nanostructures and to examine their potential application in surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). The characterization of the produced nanostructures was carried out by performing optical absorbance measurements, morphology, and composition analysis, as well as testing the SERS performance of the NP films at three different excitation laser wavelengths in the visible range. The study aims to investigate the relationship between the optical properties, the morphology, and the enhancement of the produced samples at different excitations, and the results are presented and discussed. The study highlights the potential of using spark ablation and inertial impaction-based deposition as a method for producing nanoparticle films for SERS.
Stage III Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: An Overview of Treatment Options
Authors: Petrella Francesco , Rizzo Stefania , Attili Ilaria , Passaro Antonio , Zilli Thomas , Martucci Francesco , Bonomo Luca , Del Grande Filippo , Casiraghi Monica , De Marinis Filippo , Spaggiari Lorenzo
Published: March 2023

Lung cancer is the second-most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. The most common histological type is non-small-cell lung cancer, accounting for 85% of all lung cancer cases. About one out of three new cases of non-small-cell lung cancer are diagnosed at a locally advanced stage—mainly stage III—consisting of a widely heterogeneous group of patients presenting significant differences in terms of tumor volume, local diffusion, and lymph nodal involvement. Stage III NSCLC therapy is based on the pivotal role of multimodal treatment, including surgery, radiotherapy, and a wide-ranging option of systemic treatments. Radical surgery is indicated in the case of hilar lymphnodal involvement or single station mediastinal ipsilateral involvement, possibly after neoadjuvant chemotherapy; the best appropriate treatment for multistation mediastinal lymph node involvement still represents a matter of debate. Although the main scope of treatments in this setting is potentially curative, the overall survival rates are still poor, ranging from 36% to 26% and 13% in stages IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC, respectively. The aim of this article is to provide an up-to-date, comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art treatments for stage III non-small-cell lung cancer.
Evidence of Coral Diseases, Phase Shift, and Stressors in the Atolls of Lakshadweep Islands, Arabian Sea—With Geographical Notes on Their Occurrence within the Indian EEZ and Contiguous International Waters
Authors: Das Rocktim Ramen , Sreeraj Chemmencheri Ramakrishnan , Mohan Gopi , Simon Nina Tabitha , Ramachandran Purvaja , Ramachandran Ramesh , Krishnan Pandian , Kumar Deepak Samuel Vijay
Published: March 2023

Photographic evidence of some important coral diseases (black band disease, black disease/Terpios hoshinota, white syndrome, pink line syndrome, pink spots, invertebrate galls, skeletal growth anomalies, tissue loss), coral competing sponges, and coral–algal phase shifts (competitive overgrowth of the seaweed Caulerpa spp. over corals and competitive scleractinian interactions such as with Halimeda spp.) have been collected during field observations in a few atolls within the Lakshadweep archipelago, Arabian Sea. Further, earlier reports of similar diseases and other stressors within the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and its contiguous international waters, including the reefs of the Maldives and Sri Lanka, are highlighted and their distributional ranges are shown.
Hybridization in the Fringed Orchids: An Analysis of Species Boundaries in the Face of Gene Flow
Authors: Evans Simone A. , Whigham Dennis F. , Hartvig Ida , McCormick Melissa K.
Published: March 2023

Natural hybridization between closely related species in sympatry is an evolutionary process that is common in orchids. Once seen as a threat to parent species, interspecific genetic change is increasingly viewed as a source of novel variation in some ecological contexts. Terrestrial fringed orchids in the genus Platanthera contain several clades with high genetic compatibility among species and many putative hybrids. We used biallelic SNPs generated with 3RAD sequencing to study the hybrid complex formed from the parent species P. blephariglottis, P. ciliaris, and P. cristata with high resolution. The genetic structure and phylogenetic relationship of the hybrid complex revealed site-dependent gene flow between species. We documented extensive hybridization and cryptic hybrids in sympatric sites. Interspecific genetic exchange is particularly common between P. blephariglottis and P. ciliaris, with cryptic hybrids among putative P. ciliaris samples being more common than parental assignments in sympatric sites. Hybridization across the triad species complex can reticulate lineages and introduce adaptive alleles. Conversely, it can reduce diversification rates and introduce maladaptive alleles. Investigation into whether anthropogenic forces are eroding species boundaries, particularly the permeable P. blephariglottis and P. ciliaris boundary, is appropriate for conservation efforts.
Conservation Genetics of Lake Sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens): Nuclear Phylogeography Drives Contemporary Patterns of Genetic Structure and Diversity
Authors: Kjartanson Shawna L. , Haxton Tim , Wozney Kristyne , Lovejoy Nathan R. , Wilson Chris C.
Published: March 2023

Sustainable management of exploited and endangered species is facilitated by knowledge of their geographic genetic structure. Lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) epitomizes both categories, but genetic information has largely been limited to the Laurentian Great Lakes basin. We assessed the hierarchical geographic genetic structure of lake sturgeon across their Canadian range using a variation at 14 microsatellite loci. Observed patterns showed evidence of two ancestral groups which originated from Mississippian and Missourian glacial refugia. Coalescent analysis indicates the two lineages most recently shared common ancestry during the late Pleistocene and were likely isolated by the late Wisconsinan ice advance, with subsequent interpopulation divergences within each lineage reflecting their reciprocal isolation as glacial meltwaters receded. Hierarchical patterns of genetic relationships among contemporary populations largely reflect colonization histories and connections within primary and secondary watersheds. Populations in western Canada showed strong similarities based on their shared Missourian origins and colonization from glacial Lake Agassiz. By contrast, populations in the Great Lakes–St. Lawrence River drainage were largely founded from a Mississippian source. Sturgeon populations in northern parts of Ontario and Quebec showed evidence of mixed ancestry from secondary contact between the two refugial groups through Holocene meltwater lakes. Within major watersheds, the strong similarity among geographically separate populations reflects their shared ancestry during postglacial colonization. The general lack of structure within major river systems highlights historically continuous habitat (connectivity) and gene flow rather than contemporary barriers (dams). These data highlight the importance of Quaternary and prehistoric events on patterns of genetic diversity and divergence within and among contemporary populations, as well as the importance of these populations for conserving the species’ evolutionary legacy.
Endoscopic Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Extrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: What Do We Know in 2023?
Authors: Orzan Rares Ilie , Pojoga Cristina , Agoston Renata , Seicean Radu , Seicean Andrada
Published: March 2023

Extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a rare and aggressive type of cancer, presenting as a mass or as a biliary stricture. This review summarizes the utility of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in the detection, staging, and determination of the differential diagnosis, especially when no cause of bile duct dilatation is revealed by cross-sectional imaging. The EUS detection rate for distal CCAs is higher than that for the proximal CCAs. The accuracy of T staging varies between 60 and 80%, and vascular involvement is correctly assessed by conventional EUS. EUS-tissue acquisition from the primary tumors is reserved for unresectable or metastatic CCA, especially in distal strictures or mass CCAs. For proximal lesions, EUS could be performed as an adjunctive to ERCP sampling when the latter is inconclusive. EUS is not appropriate for assessing the malignant features of lymph nodes in CCAs. Lymph node EUS-tissue acquisition should be performed only if it changes the surgical decision. Perhaps the development of EUS-fine needle biopsy and the detection of molecular genetic alteration will increase the diagnostic yield in CCAs.
Hybrid Deep Learning Approach for Accurate Tumor Detection in Medical Imaging Data
Authors: Cifci Mehmet Akif , Hussain Sadiq , Canatalay Peren Jerfi
Published: March 2023

The automated extraction of critical information from electronic medical records, such as oncological medical events, has become increasingly important with the widespread use of electronic health records. However, extracting tumor-related medical events can be challenging due to their unique characteristics. To address this difficulty, we propose a novel approach that utilizes Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) for data augmentation and pseudo-data generation algorithms to improve the model’s transfer learning skills for various tumor-related medical events. Our approach involves a two-stage pre-processing and model training process, where the data is cleansed, normalized, and augmented using pseudo-data. We evaluate our approach using the i2b2/UTHealth 2010 dataset and observe promising results in extracting primary tumor site size, tumor size, and metastatic site information. The proposed method has significant implications for healthcare and medical research as it can extract vital information from electronic medical records for oncological medical events.
Complexity in Geophysical Time Series of Strain/Fracture at Laboratory and Large Dam Scales: Review
Authors: Chelidze Tamaz , Matcharashvili Teimuraz , Mepharidze Ekaterine , Dovgal Nadezhda
Published: March 2023

One of the interesting directions of complexity theory is the investigation of the synchronization of mechanical behavior of large-scale systems by weak forcing, which is one of manifestations of nonlinearity/complexity of a system. The effect of periodic weak mechanical or electromagnetic forcing leading to synchronization was studied on the laboratory load–spring system as well as on a big dam’s strain data. Due to synchronization, the phase space structure of the forced system strongly depends on the weak forcing intensity–determinism show itself in the recurrence of definite states of the forced system. The nonlinear dynamics of tilts/strains/seismicity near grand dams reflect both the complexity of the mentioned time series, connected with the natural agents (regional and local geodynamics), which were presented even before dam erection, as well as the effects of the water level (WL) variation in the reservoir, which is a quasi-periodic forcing superimposed on the natural geodynamic background. Both these effects are documented by the almost half-century of observations at the large Enguri Dam. The obtained data on the dynamics of strain/seismicity near a large dam can be used for the assessment of the possible risks, connected with the abrupt change of routine dynamics of construction.
Agricultural Economic Growth, Renewable Energy Supply and CO2 Emissions Nexus
Authors: Aluwani Tagwi
Published: March 2023

International trade has created more economic growth opportunities in the agriculture sector. The agricultural sector remains key to the South African economy, with a vibrant international market becoming available as the country’s agriculture exports grow. However, the impacts of human-caused global warming have intensified as a result of increased greenhouse gas emissions, notably carbon dioxide (CO2), which negatively affects agricultural productivity and the economy. Considering the future energy resource demands for agricultural productivity due to the expected population growth and the emphasis on environmental remedial actions, the following question presents itself: what impact will a clean energy supply have on the agricultural economy and the environment, notwithstanding that agriculture, as a sector, also has a huge potential to contribute to renewable energy production? This study examines the effect of the nexus of South Africa’s renewable energy supply, CO2 emissions and trade openness on agricultural economic growth from 1990 to 2021. The nexus provides crucial insights into policies targeted at promoting renewable energy in the agricultural sector by isolating key areas of priority. An autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bounds test, fully modified ordinary least square (FMOLS) test, a dynamic ordinary least square (DOLS) test and a canonical cointegrating regression (CCR) econometric analysis were used to estimate the nexus. The results showed that growth in the agricultural sector leads to deterioration in the environment, while international trade benefits the sector. The scale of renewable energy supply slowed down the agricultural economy. The study makes a new contribution in providing empirical evidence for the links between renewable energy supply and agricultural GDP, which can drive policy on renewable energy use in the agricultural sector in South Africa. The paper recommends intentional renewable energy production research and development (R&D) finance focusing on renewable energy human development planning and investments in vocational programmes in higher learning institutes, agricultural renewable energy policy and the creation of green incentive schemes for feedstock producers, especially in rural areas in the agricultural sector.
Structural Competence and Equity-Minded Interprofessional Education: A Common Reading Approach to Learning
Authors: Bates Samantha , Fisher Kelly , Watson Jennifer , Fair Kayla , Orwig Tracy , Walker Danielle
Published: March 2023

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement, leaders in the field of interprofessional (IP) education have encouraged faculty to explore online adaptations to curriculum and examine strategies that enhance students’ structural competence. Structural competence is broadly defined as the ability to understand how oppression, governmental policies, and environmental inputs impact the health and well-being of an individual. With these changes in mind, a team of IP health science faculty developed two online curricular activities guided by the “common reading” book, Five Days at Memorial: Life and Death in a Storm-Ravaged Hospital by Sheri Fink. This article describes the development and findings of a mixed-methods evaluation of the two IP learning activities: (a) The Interprofessional Common Reading Experience (IPCRE) and (b) The IPCRE follow-up. The activities engaged over 250 students across multiple health professions (i.e., social work, nursing, athletic training, speech-language pathology, nutrition, and public health) attending three different universities. Our findings contribute to a greater understanding of how to develop online IP activities and curricular innovations that help to train equity-minded and anti-racist practitioners.
A Comprehensive Study on the Effect of Inhomogeneous Heat Dissipation on Battery Electrochemical Performance
Authors: Xie Yi , Mu Xingyu , Deng Zhongwei , Zhang Kaiqing , Chen Bin , Fan Yining
Published: March 2023

In this paper, the unbalanced discharge of lithium-ion battery module caused by heat dissipation is studied. The battery pack is composed of 12 batteries, which are divided into four modules in series, and three batteries in each module are in parallel. The three-dimensional electrochemical-thermal model of a single battery and a battery pack is established by the polynomial approximation pseudo-two-dimensional (PP2D) method in ANSYS fluent 16.0, and the correctness of the model is verified by simulation and experiment. On this basis, the non-uniform temperature distribution and the coupling relationship between electrical parameters and electrochemical parameters in the battery pack under inhomogeneous heat dissipation were studied. The mechanism of how the temperature difference affects the distribution of current and state of charge (SOC) is also given. According to the research results, the control of the average temperature of the battery pack and the control of temperature difference are incompatible and need to be traded off. Enhanced cooling can reduce the average temperature, but it produces a large temperature gradient, resulting in a greater internal temperature difference of the battery pack. The large temperature difference enlarges the difference of the branch current and aggravates the unevenness of SOC in the battery pack. In addition, the temperature difference most suitable for SOC uniformity is not the traditional 5 °C but increases with the increase of the ambient temperature and the cooling medium temperature.
Wearable Sensors for Supporting Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Monitoring of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Demrozi Florenc , Borzì Luigi , Olmo Gabriella
Published: March 2023

The incidence of neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) is increasing in an aging population [...]
Analysis and Design of a Dual-Frequency Capacitive Power Transfer System to Reduce Coupler Voltage Stress
Authors: Yang Sen , Zhang Yao , Zhang Yiming , Wang Yongchao , Wang Zhulin , Luo Bo , Mai Ruikun
Published: March 2023

In a capacitive power transfer (CPT) system, the coupling capacitance formed between the coupling plates is very small only in the pF or nF range, which leads to high voltage stress among the coupling plates during energy transmission, which increases the risk of an electrical breakdown between the coupled plates. To solve this problem, a novel dual-frequency CPT system is proposed in this paper, which uses the “peak clipping” effect caused by the superposition of the fundamental wave and third harmonic wave to reduce the voltage stress of the coupled plates. Through the detailed analysis of the working principle of the CPT system, it is shown that the dual-frequency CPT system can indeed reduce the high voltage stress among the coupled plate to 84.3% of the equivalent single-frequency system and can also reduce the inverter conduction losses to 90%. A 200 W prototype is designed with the proposed scheme, and the experimental results confirm the correctness of the theoretical derivation.
Blockchain-Based Decentralized Identification in IoT: An Overview of Existing Frameworks and Their Limitations
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Mohammad , Ferreira Joaquim , Bartolomeu Paulo C.
Published: March 2023

The popularity of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Industrial IoT (IIoT) has caused a rapid increase in connected entities and exposed its lack of adequate Identity Management (IdM). Traditional IdM systems are highly dependent on central authorities; any failure can potentially compromise the entire system. To eliminate the drawback of central authorities and evolve IdM systems to meet increasingly stringent security requirements, the Decentralized Identification approach has been proposed. This approach often relies on blockchain technology to provide a secure and tamper-proof method of managing and verifying identities. Therefore, this article investigates the capabilities of blockchain-based decentralized identification for the IoT domain, with an emphasis on the heterogeneity of online devices. It describes a number of features and specifications of decentralized identification with a specific focus on Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI), a model in which entities own their identities. The article concludes with a discussion of technical aspects as well as potential obstacles and constraints to the implementation of decentralized identification in the context of the Internet of Things.
A Low-Power, Fast-Transient FVF-Based Output-Capacitorless LDO with Push–Pull Buffer and Adaptive Resistance Unit
Authors: Li Yuanzhe , Wang Lixin , Wang Yue , Wang Shixin , Cui Mengyao , Guo Min
Published: March 2023

An output-capacitorless low-dropout regulator (LDO) with a push–pull buffer was presented in this paper. The proposed push–pull buffer was able to provide a large charge and discharge current to increase the slew rate at the gate of the power transistor effectively, thereby improving the transient response of this LDO. In addition, an adaptive resistance unit (ARU) was proposed to solve the right half-plane zero problem caused by Miller compensation to optimize the loop stability of the LDO. The proposed LDO was implemented in a 0.18-µm CMOS technology. Simulation results showed that the quiescent current of this LDO was only 16.1 µA. It regulated the output at 1.5 V from a 1.8 V supply, with a dropout voltage of 300 mV at the maximum output current of 50 mA. The maximum value of the voltage spike was 129 mV. Additionally, the recovery time of the LDO was 0.2 µs.
Modeling and Prediction of Sustainable Urban Mobility Using Game Theory Multiagent and the Golden Template Algorithm
Authors: Radu Valentin , Dumitrescu Catalin , Vasile Emilia , Tăbîrcă Alina Iuliana , Stefan Maria Cristina , Manea Liliana , Radu Florin
Published: March 2023

The current development of multimodal transport networks focuses on the realization of intelligent transport systems (ITS) to manage the prediction of traffic congestion and urban mobility of vehicles and passengers so that alternative routes can be recommended for transport, especially the use of public passenger transport, to achieve sustainable transport. In the article, we propose an algorithm and a methodology for solving multidimensional traffic congestion objectives, especially for intersections, based on combining machine learning with the templates method—the golden template algorithm with the multiagent game theory. Intersections are modeled as independent players who had to reach an agreement using Nash negotiation. The obtained results showed that the Nash negotiation with multiagents and the golden template modeling have superior results to the model predictive control (MPC) algorithm, improving travel time, the length of traffic queues, the efficiency of travel flows in an unknown and dynamic environment, and the coordination of the agents’ actions and decision making. The proposed algorithm can be used in planning public passenger transport on alternative routes and in ITS management decision making.
A Multiple Interpolation Algorithm to Improve Resampling Accuracy in Data Triggers
Authors: Cao Mengtao , Xu Fangyuan , Jia Hanbo , Zhou Lei , Ji Eryou , Wu Jin
Published: March 2023

To address the problem of low trigger accuracy during trigger resampling and variable sampling rate trigger resampling using a fixed sampling rate analog-to-digital converter (ADC), this paper proposes an interpolation method combining sinc interpolation and linear interpolation to improve accuracy, based on a digital trigger. After behavior simulation verification and actual field programmable gate array (FPGA) test verification, the data collected by two 3GSps 12-bit ADCs were subjected to 8-times sinc interpolation followed by 16-times linear interpolation processing, after which the original trigger resampling accuracy was increased by 128 times and the sampling rate could be realized to vary between 100 MHz and 1 GHz. A signal–noise ratio (SNR) of 46.80 dBFS, a spurious free dynamic range (SFDR) of 45.91 dB, and an effective number of bits (ENOB) of 7.48 bits were obtained by direct trigger resampling without algorithm processing in the behavior simulation. Meanwhile, an SNR of 58.98 dBFS, an SFDR of 60.96 dB, and an ENOB of 9.42 bits were obtained by trigger resampling after algorithm processing. Due to the influence of analog link signal loss and signal interference on the development board, an SNR, SFDR and ENOB of 51.97 dBFS, 61.26 dB, and 8.32 bits, respectively, were obtained from the trigger resampling in the FPGA test. The experimental results show that the algorithm has not only improved the triggering accuracy but has also improved the SNR, SFDR, and ENOB parameters.
Peer-to-Peer Electrical Energy Trading Considering Matching Distance and Available Capacity of Distribution Line
Authors: Tubteang Natnaree , Wirasanti Paramet
Published: March 2023

The concept of peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading leads to the flexible energy transaction of prosumers and consumers, for which the P2P business model is normally the main attention. It still requires system operators to address the challenges in trading and constraint problems. In this context, this work regards the congestion constraint in conjunction with energy trading. Firstly, a matching approach based on the cost path is proposed. It is consistent with the cost for the dispatch along each route, making a suitable matching in both distance and bids. In combination with the matching process, the available capacity has to be considered to avoid line congestion. Secondly, the bus transfer factor (BTF) and the partitioning zone approach are proposed to overcome the issue. BTF refers to a response of bus power to the congested line power. The partitioning zone, separated into the source and the load area, enables a simple management strategy. Thereby, the power adjustment in each area follows BTF. Moreover, compensation and opportunity cost are discussed. In comparison with the demand-side reprofiling approach, this work creates more trading chances for buyers and sellers by 24.70% and 30%, respectively. The reason is traders do not have to curtail their power unnecessarily for congestion management.
Thermal Interface Materials with Hexagonal Boron Nitride and Graphene Fillers in PDMS Matrix: Thermal and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Fakiridis Spyridon , Hodge Stephen A. , Karagiannidis Panagiotis G.
Published: March 2023

This work studies the effects of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) and hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) on the thermal and mechanical properties of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix for use as thermal interface materials (TIMs). Solution mixing of 10 wt% GNPs and 40 wt% hBN with PDMS produced TIMs with through-plane thermal conductivity (TC) of 1.24 W m−1 K−1 showing a 519% increase relative to the neat matrix. A synergistic effect between GNPs and hBN was particularly demonstrated when in samples with 48 wt% total filler content, 8 wt% hBN was replaced by GNPs, and the TC was increased by 33%. The elongation at break of the hBN (40 wt%)/GNP (8 wt%) samples reached 151%, representing a 160% increase when compared to samples with only 40 wt% hBN. Moreover, the shore hardness of samples containing 40 wt% hBN was 68 A, and the introduction of 8 wt% GNPs caused a decrease to 38 A. DSC measurements on samples filled with hBN and GNPs showed a reduction up to 65% in Ultimate Heat of Curing, which was attributed to the presence of graphene flakes interfering with the curing of the matrix. Graphene was found to be an efficient filler in tuning the thermal and mechanical properties of TIMs.
Numerical Investigation on the Performance of IT-SOEC with Double-Layer Composite Electrode
Authors: Shao Yan , Li Yongwei , Fu Zaiguo , Li Jingfa , Zhu Qunzhi
Published: March 2023

The double-layer composite electrode has attracted increasing attention in the field of intermediate-temperature solid oxide electrolysis cells (IT-SOEC). To investigate the effects of the cathode diffusion layer (CDL) and cathode functional layer (CFL) structure on performance, a three-dimensional multi-scale IT-SOEC unit model is developed. The model comprehensively considers the detailed mass transfer, electrochemical reaction and heat transfer processes. Meanwhile, percolation theory is adopted to preserve the structural characteristics and material properties of the composite electrode. The mesostructure model and the macroscopic model are coupled in the solution. The effects of the porosity of the CDL, the electrode particle size and the composition of the composite electrode in the CFL on the mass transport process and electrolysis performance of the IT-SOEC unit are analyzed. The results show that the appropriate mass flux and energy consumption in the electrode are obtained with a CDL porosity in the range of 0.3–0.5. The decrease in the electrode particle size is conducive to the improvement of the electrolysis reaction rate. The maximum reaction rate in the CFL increases by 32.64% when the radius of the electrode particle is reduced from 0.5 μm to 0.3 μm. The excellent performance can be obtained when the volume fractions of the electrode phase and electrolyte phase in the CFL tend to be uniform. This study will provide guidance for the performance optimization of IT-SOEC and further promote the development of IT-SOEC hydrogen production technology in engineering applications.
An Overview of Complex Instability Behaviors Induced by Nonlinearity of Power Electronic Systems with Memristive Load
Authors: Cao Hongbo , Wang Faqiang
Published: March 2023

The proposal of the memristor, considered as the fourth basic circuit element, suggests a new possibility for the design of high-performance power electronic systems. However, it also brings new challenges. At present, more and more electrical equipment and systems have demonstrated that their external characteristics can exhibit “8”-shaped hysteresis loops and can be regard as memristive equipment and systems. In order to satisfy the requirements of controllability, flexibility, efficiently, and so on, most memristive equipment and systems are not directly connected to the power grid but instead obtain their own required powering through various forms of power electronic converters. Note that memristive loads are distinctive and demonstrate unique nonlinear behaviors. Similarly, there can be nonlinearity from the resistor (R), inductor (L), or capacitor (C) load, but there is no combination of only R, L, and C that could produce memristive characteristics. In particular, the memristance of memristive devices changes continuously during the operation process; in addition, practical power electronic systems composed of memristive devices and power supplies have strong nonlinear characteristics, which are more likely to result in various complex behaviors and are not conducive to the stable operation of the systems. Therefore, exploring complex instability behaviors of power electronic systems with strong nonlinearity in depth is necessary for better protection and utilization of memristive devices. This paper provides an outline of the status of research on complex behaviors of power electronic systems with memristive load; it is expected to provide guidance for the study of complex behavior of strongly nonlinear systems.