bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study of the Relationship between University Students’ Food Neophobia and Their Tendencies towards Orthorexia Nervosa
Authors: Basaran Ayse Gumusler , Ozbek Yagmur Demirel
Published: November 2023

Food neophobia, known as an avoidance of the consumption of unknown foods, can negatively impact nutritional quality. In orthorexia nervosa, there is an excessive mental effort to consume healthy food. Individuals exhibiting symptoms of food neophobia and orthorexia nervosa may experience food restrictions. This study aimed to assess food neophobia levels and orthorexia nervosa tendencies among university students, investigate the potential association between the two constructs, and explore the effect of the demographic characteristics of the participants on the variables. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. The study sample consisted of 609 students enrolled at Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University. The data were collected through Google Forms using a sociodemographic information form, the Food Neophobia Scale, and the ORTO-11 scale. Ethics committee approval and institutional permission were obtained for the study. Of the students participating in the survey, 71.9% were female, 14.6% were classified as neophobic, and 47.1% had orthorexia nervosa symptoms. The mean scores from the Food Neophobia Scale (39.41 ± 9.23) and the ORTO-11 scale (27.43 ± 5.35) were in the normal range. Food neophobia was significantly higher among those who did not consume alcohol. Orthorexia nervosa symptoms were significantly more common among married people. In the correlation analysis, no significant relationship was found between age, food neophobia, and orthorexia nervosa. It can be said that food neophobia in this study is similar to in other studies conducted on university students. In addition, about half of the participants had symptoms of orthorexia nervosa. This result is higher compared to other studies conducted with university students. The findings of this study indicate that the participants care about the healthfulness of food.
Research on the Rebound Hammer Testing of High-Strength Concrete’s Compressive Strength in the Xinjiang Region
Authors: Chen Jinming , Jin Qiang , Dong Baoli , Dong Cun
Published: November 2023

Enhancing the assessment of compressive strength and the efficiency of rebound hammers in non-destructive testing for high-strength concrete is an urgent issue in construction engineering. This study involved C50 to C90 high-strength concrete specimens, utilizing rebound hammers with nominal energies of 4.5 J and 5.5 J, along with a compression machine. A regression analysis was performed on the compressive strength and rebound values, resulting in linear, polynomial, power, exponential, and logarithmic equations for two different types of rebound hammers. Additionally, the precision of rebound hammers with different nominal energies and the representativeness of various rebound representative values in the measurement area were investigated. The experimental results indicate that the precision of the regionally representative strength curve in Xinjiang meets national specifications. The 4.5 J nominal energy rebound hammer exhibited a higher testing accuracy. When reducing the high-strength concrete measurement area’s rebound representative values from 16 to 14, 12, and 10, the coefficients of variation for the different rebound representative values were mostly below 10%. Within high-strength concrete structures, the strength curve formula derived from rebound representative value 16 is equally applicable to 14, 12, and 10. In practical engineering applications, prioritizing 10 ensures testing accuracy while reducing on-site testing efforts. The outcomes of this experiment establish a foundation for the development and promotion of rebound method-testing technology for high-strength concrete in Xinjiang.
A Retrospective Multicenter Italian Analysis of Epidemiological, Clinical and Histopathological Features in a Sample of Patients with Acinic Cell Carcinoma of the Parotid Gland
Authors: De Luca Pietro , Di Stadio Arianna , de Campora Luca , De Bonis Egidio , Fermi Matteo , Petruzzi Gerardo , Atturo Francesca , Colangeli Roberta , Scarpa Alfonso , Lo Manto Alfredo , Colizza Andrea , Cintoli Giulia , Togo Giulia , Salzano Giovanni , Crescenzi Domenico , Ralli Massimo , Abbate Vincenzo , Ricciardiello Filippo , Magaldi Luciano , D’Ecclesia Aurelio , di Massa Gianluca , Costarelli Leopoldo , Merenda Elisabetta , Corsi Alessandro , Covello Renato , Di Crescenzo Rosa Maria , Duda Loren , Dimitri Lucia Maria , Caputo Alessandro , Ferrara Gerardo , Lucante Teresina , Longo Francesco , Tassone Domenico , Iemma Maurizio , Cassano Michele , Salzano Francesco Antonio , Califano Luigi , Marchioni Daniele , Pellini Raul , de Vincentiis Marco , Presutti Livio , Ionna Franco , de Campora Enrico , Radici Marco , Camaioni Angelo
Published: November 2023

Background. The acinic cell carcinoma (AciCC) of the parotid gland is a rare tumor with an indolent behavior; however, a subgroup of this tumor presents an aggressive behavior with a tendency to recur. The aim of this multicenter study was to identify and stratify those patients with AciCC at high risk of tumor recurrence. Methods. A retrospective study was carried out involving 77 patients treated with surgery between January 2000 and September 2022, in different Italian referral centers. Data about tumor characteristics and its recurrence were collected. The histological specimens and slides were independently reviewed by a senior pathologist coordinator (L.C.) and the institution’s local head and neck pathologist. Results. The patients’ age average was 53.6 years, with a female prevalence in the group. The mean follow-up was 67.4 months (1-258, SD 59.39). The five-year overall survival (OS) was 83.2%. The 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) was 60% (95% CI 58.2–61.7). A high incidence of necrosis, extraglandular spread, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), atypical mitosis, and cellular pleomorphism was observed in the high-risk tumors compared to the low-risk ones. Conclusion. AciCC generally had an indolent behavior, optimal OS, DFS with few cervical node metastases, and rare distant relapses. This multicenter retrospective case series provides evidence of the need for clinical–epidemiological–histological stratification for patients at risk of poor outcomes. Our results suggest that the correct definition of high-risk AciCC should include tumor size, the presence of necrosis, extraglandular spread, LVI, atypical mitosis, and cellular pleomorphism.
From Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) to Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): Epidemiology, Incidence, Predictions, Risk Factors, and Prevention
Authors: Motta Benedetta Maria , Masarone Mario , Torre Pietro , Persico Marcello
Published: November 2023

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects up to a quarter of the adult population in many developed and developing countries. This spectrum of liver disease ranges from simple steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis. The incidence of NASH is projected to increase by up to 56% over the next 10 years. There is growing epidemiological evidence that NAFLD has become the fastest-growing cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in industrialized countries. The annual incidence of HCC varies between patients with NASH cirrhosis and patients with noncirrhotic NAFLD. In this review, NAFLD/NASH-associated HCC will be described, including its epidemiology, risk factors promoting hepatocarcinogenesis, and management of HCC in patients with obesity and associated metabolic comorbidities, including preventive strategies and therapeutic approaches to address this growing problem.
The Diagnostic and Predictive Value of 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography in Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Al-Ibraheem Akram , Abdlkadir Ahmed Saad , Shagera Qaid Ahmed , Saraireh Omar , Al-Adhami Dhuha , Al-Rashdan Rakan , Anwar Farah , Moghrabi Serin , Mohamad Issa , Muylle Kristoff , Estrada Enrique , Paez Diana , Mansour Asem , Lopci Egesta
Published: November 2023

This retrospective study examines the diagnostic accuracy of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) and neck magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in detecting nodal metastasis for patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) and assesses the predictive values of metabolic and structural features derived from 18F-FDG PET/CT. By involving 66 patients from 2014 to 2021, the sensitivity and specificity of both modalities were calculated. 18F-FDG PET/CT outperforms neck MRI for nodal disease detection, with 89% sensitivity, 65% specificity, and 77% accuracy for nodal metastasis (p = 0.03). On the other hand, neck MRI had 66% sensitivity, 62% specificity, and 64% accuracy. Approximately 11% of patients witnessed a change in their therapy intent when relying on 18F-FDG PET/CT nodal staging results. Analyzing the cohort for PET-derived metabolic and morphological parameters, a total of 167 lymph nodes (LN) were visualized. Parameters such as the LN maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), total lesion glycolysis (TLG), and LN size were computed. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were performed. Among the 167 identified cervical LNs, 111 were histopathologically confirmed as positive. ROC analysis revealed the highest area under the curve for LN MTV (0.89; p < 0.01), followed by LN size (0.87; p < 0.01). Both MTV and LN size independently predicted LN metastasis through multivariate analysis. In addition, LN MTV can reliably predict false-positive LNs in preoperative staging, offering a promising imaging-based approach for further exploration.
Constructing a T-Cell Receptor-Related Gene Signature for Prognostic Stratification and Therapeutic Guidance in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Lu Ye , Mai Zizhao , Zheng Jiarong , Lin Pei , Lin Yunfan , Cui Li , Zhao Xinyuan
Published: November 2023

Backgroud: The stratification of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients based on prognostic differences is critical for therapeutic guidance. This study was designed to construct a predictive signature derived from T-cell receptor-related genes (TCRRGs) to forecast the clinical outcomes in HNSCC. Methods: We sourced gene expression profiles from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) HNSCC dataset, GSE41613, and GSE65858 datasets. Utilizing consensus clustering analysis, we identified two distinct HNSCC clusters according to TCRRG expression. A TCRRG-based signature was subsequently developed and validated across diverse independent HNSCC cohorts. Moreover, we established a nomogram model based on TCRRGs. We further explored differences in immune landscapes between high- and low-risk groups. Results: The TCGA HNSCC dataset was stratified into two clusters, displaying marked variations in both overall survival (OS) and immune cell infiltration. Furthermore, we developed a robust prognostic signature based on TCRRG utilizing the TCGA HNSCC train cohort, and its prognostic efficacy was validated in the TCGA HNSCC test cohort, GSE41613, and GSE65858. Importantly, the high-risk group was characterized by a suppressive immune microenvironment, in contrast to the low-risk group. Our study successfully developed a robust TCRRG-based signature that accurately predicts clinical outcomes in HNSCC, offering valuable strategies for improved treatments.
Unlocking New Avenues in Breast Cancer Treatment: The Synergy of Kinase Inhibitors and Immunotherapy
Authors: Bravo María José , Burgos-Molina Antonio Manuel , García-Aranda Marilina , Redondo Maximino , Téllez Teresa
Published: November 2023

Cancer is one of the world’s most significant health problems today. Currently, breast cancer has globally surpassed lung cancer as the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. In 2020, an estimated 2,261,419 new cases were diagnosed in women worldwide. Therefore, there is a need to understand the processes that can help us better treat this disease. In recent years, research in the fight against cancer has often been based on two treatment modalities. One of them is the use of protein kinase inhibitors, which have been instrumental in the development of new therapeutic strategies. Another crucial route is the use of immunotherapy, which has been touted as a great promise for cancer treatment. Protein kinase alterations can interfere with the effectiveness of other treatments, such as immunotherapy. In this review, we will analyze the role played by protein kinase alterations in breast cancer and their possible impact on the effectiveness of the response to immunotherapy treatments.
Immune-Related Adverse Events, Biomarkers of Systemic Inflammation, and Survival Outcomes in Patients Receiving Pembrolizumab for Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Raynes George , Stares Mark , Low Samantha , Haron Dhania , Sarwar Hussain , Abhi Dhruv , Barrie Colin , Laird Barry ,   Caledonian Cachexia Collaborative, Phillips Iain , MacKean Melanie
Published: November 2023

Background: Pembrolizumab monotherapy for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) expressing PD-L1 ≥ 50% doubles five-year survival rates compared to chemotherapy. However, immune-related adverse events (irAEs) can cause severe, long-term toxicity necessitating high-dose steroids and/or treatment cessation. Interestingly, patients experiencing irAEs demonstrate better survival outcomes. Biomarkers of systemic inflammation, including the Scottish Inflammatory Prognostic Score (SIPS), also predict survival in this patient group. This study examines the relationship between inflammatory status, irAEs, and survival outcomes in NSCLC. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with NSCLC expressing PD-L1 ≥ 50% receiving first-line pembrolizumab monotherapy at a large cancer centre in Scotland. Regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between SIPS, irAEs, and survival. Results: 83/262 eligible patients (32%) experienced an irAE. Dermatological, endocrine, gastrointestinal, and hepatic, but not pulmonary, irAEs were associated with prolonged PFS and OS (p <= 0.011). Mild irAEs were associated with better PFS and OS in all patients, including on time-dependent analyses (HR0.61 [95% CI 0.41–0.90], p = 0.014 and HR0.41 [95% CI 0.26–0.63], p < 0.001, respectively). SIPS predicted PFS (HR 1.60 [95% CI 1.34–1.90], p < 0.001) and OS (HR 1.69 [95% CI 1.41–2.02], p < 0.001). SIPS predicted the occurrence of any irAE in all patients (p = 0.011), but not on 24-week landmark analyses (p = 0.174). The occurrence of irAEs predicted favourable outcomes regardless of the baseline inflammatory status (p = 0.015). Conclusion: The occurrence of certain irAEs is associated with a survival benefit in patients with NSCLC expressing PD-L1 ≥ 50% receiving pembrolizumab. We find that the association between low levels of systemic inflammation and the risk of irAEs is confounded by their independent prognostic value.
Co3O4 Catalysts for Complete Toluene Oxidation: Review including Meta-Analysis of Catalyst Activity Data
Authors: Georgiou Yiannis , Smyrnioti Maria , Ioannides Theophilos
Published: November 2023

Designing highly active catalysts for the oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) involves fine-tuning the catalytic surface and improving its interaction with VOCs. The present review assesses various studies conducted in the last decade on Co3O4 catalysts for the complete oxidation of toluene (C7H8) and provides information on the synthesis and physicochemical characterization of these catalysts. Taking this one step further, data from the literature were carefully chosen for an extensive meta-analysis aiming at elucidating the structure sensitivity of toluene oxidation over Co3O4 catalysts. Specifically, the specific reaction rate was calculated and correlated with the physicochemical properties of the catalysts, namely, the specific surface area, faceting, and Co3+/Co2+ ratio. Based on this analysis, the specific surface area does not exert a significant impact on the specific activity of Co3O4 catalysts for the total oxidation of toluene. Instead, the specific reaction rates are influenced by the morphology, surface concentration, exposed crystallographic planes, and oxidation state of cobalt cations. These factors determine the catalyst’s specific activity by creating defects, oxygen vacancies, or oxygen species with different reactivities. It was also found that a high surface Co3+/Co2+ ratio is necessary for achieving high catalytic performance in the oxidation of VOCs.
Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of CDPK Gene Family in Cultivated Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Reveal Their Potential Roles in Response to Ca Deficiency
Authors: Fan Shikai , Yang Sha , Li Guowei , Wan Shubo
Published: November 2023

This study identified 45 calcium-dependent protein kinase (CDPK) genes in cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.), which are integral in plant growth, development, and stress responses. These genes, classified into four subgroups based on phylogenetic relationships, are unevenly distributed across all twenty peanut chromosomes. The analysis of the genetic structure of AhCDPKs revealed significant similarity within subgroups, with their expansion primarily driven by whole-genome duplications. The upstream promoter sequences of AhCDPK genes contained 46 cis-acting regulatory elements, associated with various plant responses. Additionally, 13 microRNAs were identified that target 21 AhCDPK genes, suggesting potential post-transcriptional regulation. AhCDPK proteins interacted with respiratory burst oxidase homologs, suggesting their involvement in redox signaling. Gene ontology and KEGG enrichment analyses affirmed AhCDPK genes’ roles in calcium ion binding, protein kinase activity, and environmental adaptation. RNA-seq data revealed diverse expression patterns under different stress conditions. Importantly, 26 AhCDPK genes were significantly induced when exposed to Ca deficiency during the pod stage. During the seedling stage, four AhCDPKs (AhCDPK2/-25/-28/-45) in roots peaked after three hours, suggesting early signaling roles in pod Ca nutrition. These findings provide insights into the roles of CDPK genes in plant development and stress responses, offering potential candidates for predicting calcium levels in peanut seeds.
Preparation of Microcrystalline Cellulose-Derived Carbon Dots as a Sensor for Fe3+ Detection
Authors: Fan Jiang , Kang Lei , Gao Jinlong , Cheng Xu , Zhang Qing , Wu Yunlong
Published: November 2023

In this article, nitrogen-doped carbon dots (N-CDs) were prepared by a hydrothermal method using microcrystalline cellulose as the carbon source and polyethylenimine as the nitrogen source. The ratio of microcrystalline cellulose to polyethylenimine added exerted a great influence on the fluorescence quantum yield of N-CDs. The fluorescence intensity of N-CDs 2 was significantly affected by the solvent type and pH value, but not influenced by the time of irradiation with the UV lamp. Intriguingly, N-CDs 2 could be applied to temperature sensing (30~70 °C). With the addition of Fe3+ (20 ppm), the fluorescence of N-CDs 2 was greatly quenched, and the quenching rate reached 82.84%. The fluorescence intensity of N-CDs 2 showed a good linear relationship (R2 = 0.995) with Fe3+ concentrations (0~14 ppm), and they achieved a limit of detection of 0.21 ppm. In addition, N-CDs 2 could also effectively detect Fe3+ in real water samples, showing a good recovery rate (98.25%~102.75%) and low relative standard deviation (less than 3%). According to the fluorescence lifetime data, the fluorescence quenching of N-CDs by Fe3+ might be a static process.
Fragment Screening in the Development of a Novel Anti-Malarial
Authors: Du Xiaochen , Zhang Ran , Groves Matthew R.
Published: November 2023

Fragment-based approaches offer rapid screening of chemical space and have become a mainstay in drug discovery. This manuscript provides a recent example that highlights the initial and intermediate stages involved in the fragment-based discovery of an allosteric inhibitor of the malarial aspartate transcarbamoylase (ATCase), subsequently shown to be a potential novel anti-malarial. The initial availability of high-resolution diffracting crystals allowed the collection of a number of protein fragment complexes, which were then assessed for inhibitory activity in an in vitro assay, and binding was assessed using biophysical techniques. Elaboration of these compounds in cycles of structure-based drug design improved activity and selectivity between the malarial and human ATCases. A key element in this process was the use of multicomponent reaction chemistry as a multicomponent compatible fragment library, which allowed the rapid generation of elaborated compounds, the rapid construction of a large (70 member) chemical library, and thereby efficient exploration of chemical space around the fragment hits. This review article details the steps along the pathway of the development of this library, highlighting potential limitations of the approach and serving as an example of the power of combining multicomponent reaction chemistry with fragment-based approaches.
Study on the Influence of KOH Wet Treatment on Red μLEDs
Authors: Zhang Shuhan , Fan Qian , Ni Xianfeng , Tao Li , Gu Xing
Published: November 2023

InGaN-based red micro-light-emitting diodes (µLEDs) of different sizes were prepared in this work. The red GaN epilayers were grown on 4-inch sapphire substrates through metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). Etching, sidewall treatment, and p- and n-contact deposition were involved in the fabrication process. Initially, the etching process would cause undesirable damage to the GaN sidewalls, which leads to an increase in leakage current. Hence, we employed KOH wet treatment to rectify the defects on the sidewalls and conducted a comparative and systematic analysis of electrical as well as optical properties. We observed that the µLEDs with a size of 5 µm exhibited a substantial leakage current, which was effectively mitigated by the application of KOH wet treatment. In terms of optical performance, the arrays with KOH demonstrated improved light output power (LOP). Additionally, while photoelectric performance exhibited a decline with increased current density, the devices treated with KOH consistently outperformed their counterparts in terms of optoelectronic efficiency. It is noteworthy that the optimized devices displayed enhanced photoelectric characteristics without significantly altering their original peak wavelength and FWHM. Our findings point to the elimination of surface non-radiative recombination by KOH wet treatment, thereby enhancing the performance of small-sized red µLEDs, which has significant potential in realizing full-color micro-displays in near-eye projection applications.
A Snapshot into the Lives of Elephants: Camera Traps and Conservation in Etosha National Park, Namibia
Authors: Berezin Jodie L. , Odom Amanda J. , Hayssen Virginia , O’Connell-Rodwell Caitlin E.
Published: November 2023

Knowledge of elephant movement and grouping patterns in the wild is critical for their management and conservation. Much of these data come from GPS collar data and aerial surveys, which have provided invaluable information, but data from these methods are often limited to small groups or entire populations. Effective elephant management requires both generalized and localized methodologies. Here, we propose the expanded use of camera traps in research relating to elephant localized movements and grouping patterns as an additional tool for elephant conservation management. In this study, we use a battery-powered camera trap to provide daily high-resolution data of African savanna elephant (Loxodonta africana) grouping patterns over the course of an entire year. We present findings on the seasonal and diurnal grouping patterns of elephants at a waterhole in the northeast corner of Etosha National Park from July 2016 to June 2017. The frequency of elephant occurrences varied seasonally and diurnally across all group types (solitary male, male, family, and mixed groups), while group sizes did not vary seasonally, except for male groups. Solitary males occurred relatively equally throughout the day, while male and mixed groups occurred the most midday, and family groups occurred the most in the afternoon. Additionally, we measured the reliability of research assistants when collecting group type and group size data from the camera trap images. Intra- and inter-observer reliability was excellent among and across research assistants, highlighting the potential for non-specialist observers to have greater involvement in camera trap data collection. Our results support the use of camera trap data where GPS collars and aerial surveys are not feasible and where higher-resolution data are needed for more localized management. Finally, we discuss our experience with two different types of camera traps to highlight the pros and cons of each approach.
FLPP: A Federated-Learning-Based Scheme for Privacy Protection in Mobile Edge Computing
Authors: Cheng Zhimo , Ji Xinsheng , You Wei , Bai Yi , Chen Yunjie , Qin Xiaogang
Published: November 2023

Data sharing and analyzing among different devices in mobile edge computing is valuable for social innovation and development. The limitation to the achievement of this goal is the data privacy risk. Therefore, existing studies mainly focus on enhancing the data privacy-protection capability. On the one hand, direct data leakage is avoided through federated learning by converting raw data into model parameters for transmission. On the other hand, the security of federated learning is further strengthened by privacy-protection techniques to defend against inference attack. However, privacy-protection techniques may reduce the training accuracy of the data while improving the security. Particularly, trading off data security and accuracy is a major challenge in dynamic mobile edge computing scenarios. To address this issue, we propose a federated-learning-based privacy-protection scheme, FLPP. Then, we build a layered adaptive differential privacy model to dynamically adjust the privacy-protection level in different situations. Finally, we design a differential evolutionary algorithm to derive the most suitable privacy-protection policy for achieving the optimal overall performance. The simulation results show that FLPP has an advantage of 8∼34% in overall performance. This demonstrates that our scheme can enable data to be shared securely and accurately.
Efficient Quantum Private Comparison without Sharing a Key
Authors: Li Jian , Che Fanting , Wang Zhuo , Fu Anqi
Published: November 2023

Quantum private comparison (QPC) allows at least two users to compare the equality of their secret information, for which the security is based on the properties of quantum mechanics. To improve the use of quantum resources and the efficiency of private comparison, a new QPC protocol based on GHZ-like states is proposed. The protocol adopts unitary operations to encode the secret information instead of performing quantum key distribution (QKD), which can reduce the amount of computation required to perform QKD and improve the utilization of quantum resources. The decoy photon technique used to detect channel eavesdropping ensures that the protocol is resistant to external attacks. The quantum efficiency of the protocol reaches 66%. Compared with many previous QPC schemes, the proposed protocol does not need to share a key and has advantages in quantum efficiency and quantum resources.
Enhanced Energy Storage Properties of Polypropylene/Glycidyl Methacrylate Grafted Polypropylene/Nano-ZrO2 Ternary System
Authors: Zhang Chong , Xing Zhaoliang , Chen Xin , Guo Shaowei , Liu Hongbo , Cheng Lu , Liu Wenfeng
Published: November 2023

Extensive research has focused on enhancing the energy storage density of polypropylene (PP) to meet the demands of high-power and compact electronic devices and electrical systems. However, there is a lack of studies addressing the delicate balance between energy storage density and dielectric loss. Dielectric loss can lead to excessive heat generation, posing a threat to the operation of energy storage capacitors. In this study, PP grafted with glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) was used as a compatibilizer and incorporated into a PP/nano ZrO2 blend to form a ternary system of PP/nano ZrO2/PP grafted GMA. A comparative study was conducted to analyze the effects of GMA grafting and individual doping of nano ZrO2 on the dielectric performance of PP. The results demonstrate that the ternary system not only ensures a high breakdown voltage (382.29 MV/m) but also possesses a high dielectric constant (2.67), thereby achieving an energy storage density of 1.7275 J/cm3 while maintaining low dielectric loss. Furthermore, grafting GMA introduces a significant number of deep traps, a phenomenon substantiated by the results of thermal stimulated depolarization current tests and molecular simulation calculations. However, the ternary system partially avoids the introduction of excessive deep traps associated with GMA grafting. This ternary system exhibits excellent energy storage performance, ease of fabrication, and stability, thereby enriching the research on polymer-based high-energy density dielectric materials.
Unlocking the Potential of Wind Turbine Blade Recycling: Assessing Techniques and Metrics for Sustainability
Authors: Sorte Sandra , Martins Nelson , Oliveira Mónica S. A. , Vela German L. , Relvas Carlos
Published: November 2023

The rapid growth of the wind energy industry has resulted in a significant increase in Wind Turbine Blade (WTB) waste, posing challenges for recycling due to the composite materials used in their construction. Several proposed techniques, including mechanical, thermal, and chemical processes, have been considered for wind-blade recycling, but determining the most effective approach remains a critical issue. This study presents the first comprehensive systematic review of available wind-blade recycling processes, evaluating their economic, technical, and environmental performance. Additionally, we consider the physical and mechanical properties of the recycled materials, which can aid in identifying potential markets for these materials. Among the various recycling technologies, microwave pyrolysis emerges as the most promising technique for recycling large quantities of WTB, despite some challenges and uncertainties surrounding its effectiveness and feasibility at an industrial scale. However, the optimal recycling technique for WTB will depend on multiple factors, including the blade material, the desired environmental impact, and the economic feasibility of the process. Based on this review, mechanical recycling appears to be more energy-efficient, while the fluidised bed recycling process demonstrates a lower primary energy demand, global warming potential, and power consumption. These findings provide valuable guidance for decision-makers in the wind energy industry to develop effective waste management strategies and plans for sustainable wind energy development. Addressing WTB waste and implementing efficient recycling techniques will be critical in mitigating environmental impacts and promoting sustainability in the renewable energy sector as the wind energy industry grows.
Coordination Model and Digital Twins for Managing Energy Consumption and Production in a Smart Grid
Authors: Glass Philippe , Di Marzo Serugendo Giovanna
Published: November 2023

Smart grids play an important role for energy management by directly supporting the socio-ecological transition of neighbourhoods. This research provides the design of a coordination model to enable the management and exchange of electrical energy between producers and consumers at a micro-grid level. This model, which derives from the SAPERE coordination model, allows the intelligent digital twins to interact and generate services on the fly to meet different needs in real time. We have designed producer and consumer digital twins, which autonomously generate supply contracts in the form of a transaction, and supervisor digital twins, which regulate energy at the node level, managing threshold violations and proactively avoiding future threshold violations by using predictions. This coordination model allows energy exchanges in a single node and in a micro-grid structure that contains several neighbouring nodes. We have implemented and tested the platform with realistic data, based on the consumption statistics of a real household, and with real data, collected in the living-lab of “Les Vergers” located near Geneva. The results show that the combination of a coordination model and intelligent digital twins actually supports self-adaptive energy management in a smart grid. Such approaches are fundamental to develop efficient and reliable smart grids.
Optimization of the Air Distribution in a Biomass Grate-Fired Furnace
Authors: Wang Qingjia , Zhang Man , Xiao Fan , Wang Hairui , Jin Yan , Hu Nan , Yang Hairui
Published: November 2023

This study utilized a combination of FLIC(1D3.2C) and FLUENT(2021R2) software to optimize the primary air distribution along the grate and the performance of a straw briquette combustion furnace of a 7 MW unit in China used to produce hot air for drying grain. Three air distribution modes, namely front-enhanced, uniform, and rear-enhanced modes, were analyzed to determine their effect on the flue gas components above the grate, the temperature field in the furnace, and the nitrogen oxide concentration at the furnace outlet. The results of the calculations showed that the NOx emissions for the front-enhanced, uniform, and rear-enhanced modes were 133.5 mg/Nm3, 104.4 mg/Nm3, and 76.6 mg/Nm3, respectively. It was found that the rear-enhanced mode can expand the biomass drying, devolatilization, and combustion zone, thus improving the furnace combustion performance and decreasing NOx emissions. These findings can provide useful guidance for optimizing biomass chain-grate-firing furnaces.
Smoothing Intermittent Output Power in Grid-Connected Doubly Fed Induction Generator Wind Turbines with Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Behabtu Henok Ayele , Vafaeipour Majid , Kebede Abraham Alem , Berecibar Maitane , Van Mierlo Joeri , Fante Kinde Anlay , Messagie Maarten , Coosemans Thierry
Published: November 2023

Wind energy is an increasingly important renewable resource in today’s global energy landscape. However, it faces challenges due to the unpredictable nature of wind speeds, resulting in intermittent power generation. This intermittency can disrupt power grid stability when integrating doubly fed induction generators (DFIGs). To address this challenge, we propose integrating a Li-ion battery energy storage system (BESS) with the direct current (DC) link of grid-connected DFIGs to mitigate power fluctuations caused by variable wind speed conditions. Our approach entails meticulous battery modeling, sizing, and control methods, all tailored to match the required output power of DFIG wind turbines. To demonstrate how well our Li-ion battery solution works, we have developed a MATLAB/Simulink R2022a version model. This model enables us to compare situations with and without the Li-ion battery in various operating conditions, including steady-state and dynamic transient scenarios. We also designed a buck–boost bidirectional DC-DC converter controlled by a proportional integral controller for battery charging and discharging. The battery actively monitors the DC-link voltage of the DFIG wind turbine and dynamically adjusts its stored energy in response to the voltage level. Thus, DFIG wind turbines consistently generate 1.5 MW of active power, operating with a highly efficient power factor of 1.0, indicating there is no reactive power produced. Our simulation results confirm that Li-ion batteries effectively mitigate power fluctuations in grid-connected DFIG wind turbines. As a result, Li-ion batteries enhance grid power stability and quality by absorbing or releasing power to compensate for variations in wind energy production.
Assessing the Implications of Ecological Civilization Pilots in Urban Green Energy Industry on Carbon Emission Mitigation: Evidence from China
Authors: Zhang Peng , Tan Lei , Liu Fei
Published: November 2023

This study aims to explore the role of China’s Ecological Civilization Pilot Policies in carbon emissions reduction within the urban green energy industry. It further investigates how these policies influence carbon emissions. To achieve this, a unique incentive–constraint model is established considering China’s distinctive political system. The DID model was used in this study, employing Chinese city data spanning from 2009 to 2020 and analyzing urban panel data with the use of two specific policies as quasi-natural experiments. The analysis reveals the following key findings: (i) Ecological Civilization Pilot Policies in the energy industry substantially contribute to carbon emission reduction through the effects of technological progress and industrial structure optimization; (ii) the unique incentive–restraint mechanism within these policies enhances their effectiveness, with short-term incentives and carefully designed assessment criteria playing a pivotal role in their successful implementation. These findings carry substantial implications for shaping environmental policies within the energy industry, emphasizing the importance of such policies in the ongoing global effort to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability.
Characterization of Tight Gas Sandstone Properties Based on Rock Physical Modeling and Seismic Inversion Methods
Authors: Jin Han , Liu Cai , Guo Zhiqi
Published: November 2023

Tight sandstones produce an increasing amount of natural gas worldwide. Apart from identifying the gas enrichment, the predictions of lithology and permeable zones are crucial for the prediction of tight gas sandstones. In the present study, a seismic inversion method is developed based on rock physical modeling, by which it is possible to directly predict the lithology and pore structure in tight formations. The double-porosity model is used as a modeling tool in considering complex pore structures. Based on the model, the microfracture porosity is then predicted using logging data, which are used as a factor to estimate microfractures. Parameters representing the lithology and pore structure are proposed and estimated using logging data analyses and rock physical modeling based on the framework of the Poisson impedance. Thereafter, a new AVO equation is established and extended to the form of an elastic impedance for a direct prediction of the lithology and pore structure parameters. Real data applications show that the indicators of lithology and permeable zones are consistent with the production status. They agree with the petrophysical properties measured in wellbores, thereby proving the applicability of the proposed method for the effective characterization of tight gas sandstones.
Typical Plantation Water Use Strategies Are Determined by Environmental Conditions and Plant Eco-Physiology in Beijing, China
Authors: Chen Yujia , Zha Tonggang , Zhang Hongli , Zhao Lili , Wang Ao , Cui Qingzhou , Song Junling , Zhang Hengshuo , Yu Yang , Wang Dongmei
Published: November 2023

The forest ecosystem of Beijing is an important barrier that preserves the ecological environment in the capital city of China. Therefore, the study of plant water utilization techniques in Beijing holds considerable importance in establishing a theoretical framework for the rehabilitation, administration, and preservation of forest ecosystem structures and functions. Here, the samples of precipitation, xylem water, and soil water were collected during the months of August and December 2021 from both mountainous and plains areas of Beijing. We measured the hydrogen and oxygen stable isotope values (δ2H and δ18O, respectively) and demonstrated the water use strategies of two typical tree species (Pinus tabuliformis Carr. and Acer truncatum Bunge) using the MixSIAR model. Divergent water use strategies were found in the mountainous and plains areas of Beijing. In the mountainous area, the two tree species exhibited seasonal differences in water use strategies. The xylem water of P. tabuliformis was mainly derived from the surface soil water (0~20 cm). In contrast, the xylem water of A. truncatum mainly originated from the surface soil water during the growing season, and it mainly originated from the deep soil water (60~100 cm) during the nongrowing season. However, in the plains area, the water sources of P. tabuliformis and A. truncatum did not show seasonal differences and originated mainly from the deep soil water. The findings of our study emphasize the notable disparity in water utilization strategies among tree species in the mountainous and plains areas. Consequently, it is imperative to formulate sustainable forestry management approaches that align with the water use efficiency of trees in various locations of Beijing.
Introgression as an Important Driver of Geographic Genetic Differentiation within European White Oaks
Authors: Degen Bernd , Blanc-Jolivet Celine , Mader Malte , Yanbaeva Vasilina , Yanbaev Yulai
Published: November 2023

The genetic composition of 5797 white oaks assigned in forest inventories as Quercus robur (3342), Quercus petraea (2090), Quercus pubescens (170), or as unspecified Quercus. spp. (195) sampled all over Europe were genotyped at 355 nuclear SNPs and 28 maternally inherited SNPs of the chloroplast and mitochondria. The sampling had a focus on Central and Eastern Europe, as well as the Black Sea and Caucasus region. Using a sparse nonnegative matrix factorization (snmf) algorithm, the nuclear genetic information was best represented by K = 4 different genetic clusters, whereas a principal component analysis visualized three different groups. The snmf run with K = 3 corresponded, for most individuals with the assignment in the forest inventories, to the three different species. The majority of the samples (88%) had an admixture coefficient q > 0.8 for one of the three species clusters, underlining the species integrity with a minor level of admixture. In contrast to Q. petraea, Q. robur and Q. pubescens showed a clear geographic genetic substructure. These large-scale within-species genetic structures were correlated to regionally variable levels of introgression between the species. For Q. petraea, introgression from Q. robur and Q. pubescens was less focused to particular regions, and this widespread inter-specific gene flow reduced the geographic genetic differentiation. The genetic variation at the maternally inherited SNPs led to 12 different haplotypes with a clear cross-species geographic pattern, further supporting the observation of significant hybridization and introgression among the species.
Usage of AI in Sustainable Knowledge Management and Innovation Processes; Data Analytics in the Electricity Sector
Authors: Kocjancic Lea , Gricar Sergej
Published: November 2023

Successful organisations prioritise product quality and customer satisfaction. Non-financial indicators are crucial for measuring performance, requiring specific financial and technology management knowledge. Effective knowledge management and entrepreneurial activity significantly impact performance, vital to the country’s economic factors. Electricity is crucial to society’s development. Renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydropower, and biomass can generate sustainable electricity. Managing environmental, social, and economic aspects is essential for sustainable societal and virtual development. In this study, the central element of novelty is associated with the dependent variable Nominal Labour Productivity per Employee. This research shows that effective knowledge management impacts a company’s business performance. Based on secondary data from various sources, we have used factor analysis to assess the interrelationship between the factors and econometric dimensionalities. Accompanied by this econometric approach, the research methodology aims to present hybrid models based on econometric techniques and artificial intelligence (AI) networks. Based on the principal component method analysis results, we show the interdependence of 30 variables in the micro and macro environment. The new components of the correlated variables show how knowledge and innovation are related to the economic performance of society, and nominal employee productivity is a valuable indicator for measuring economic efficiency. Nevertheless, AI, a knowledge management product, provides helpful comments on the econometric results.
Physiotherapy-Led Health Promotion Strategies for People with or at Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ngeh Etienne Ngeh , Lowe Anna , Garcia Carol , McLean Sionnadh
Published: November 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are prevalent and lead to high morbidity and mortality globally. Physiotherapists regularly interact with patients with or at risk of CVDs (pwCVDs). This study aimed to assess the nature of existing evidence, interventional approaches used, and the population groups included in physiotherapy-led health promotion (PLHP) for pwCVDs. The scoping review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Medline, PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL, and PEDro databases were searched from inception until June 2023. Two reviewers independently screened the titles, abstracts, and full text and conducted data extraction. All conflicts were resolved with a third reviewer. A total of 4992 records were identified, of which 20 full-text articles were included in the review. The studies had varied populations, including those with stroke, coronary artery diseases, peripheral artery diseases, hypertension, diabetes, and multiple CVD risk factors. The interventions ranged from exercise and physical activity programmes, dietary interventions, education, and counselling sessions with various supplementary approaches. Most interventions were short-term, with less than 12 months of follow-up. Interventions were personalised and patient-centred to promote adherence and health behaviour change. Among the included studies, 60% employed experimental designs, with the remainder using quasi-experimental designs. Although a wide range of PLHP strategies have been used for pwCVDs, exercise and physical activity were employed in 85% of the included studies. Other components of health promotion, such as sleep, smoking, and alcohol abuse, should be investigated within PLHP.
Biodegradation of Poly(ethylene terephthalate) by Bacillus safensis YX8
Authors: Zeng Caiting , Ding Fanghui , Zhou Jie , Dong Weiliang , Cui Zhongli , Yan Xin
Published: November 2023

Due to the extensive utilization of poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET), a significant amount of PET waste has been discharged into the environment, endangering both human health and the ecology. As an eco-friendly approach to PET waste treatment, biodegradation is dependent on efficient strains and enzymes. In this study, a screening method was first established using polycaprolactone (PCL) and PET nanoparticles as substrates. A PET-degrading strain YX8 was isolated from the surface of PET waste. Based on the phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA and gyrA genes, this strain was identified as Bacillus safensis. Strain YX8 demonstrated the capability to degrade PET nanoparticles, resulting in the production of terephthalic acid (TPA), mono (2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalic acid (MHET), and bis (2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalic acid (BHET). Erosion spots on the PET film were observed after incubation with strain YX8. Furthermore, the extracellular enzymes produced by strain YX8 exhibited the ability to form a clear zone on the PCL plate and to hydrolyze PET nanoparticles to generate TPA, MHET, and BHET. This work developed a method for the isolation of PET-degrading microorganisms and provides new strain resources for PET degradation and for the mining of functional enzymes.