bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DDX5 Functions as a Tumor Suppressor in Tongue Cancer
Authors: Liu Qingqing , Sun Yangqing , Long Min , Chen Xueyan , Zhong Shangwei , Huang Changhao , Wei Rui , Luo Jun-Li
Published: December 2023

DEAD-box polypeptide 5 (DDX5), a DEAD-box RNA helicase, is a multifunctional protein that plays important roles in many physiological and pathological processes. Contrary to its documented oncogenic role in a wide array of cancers, we herein demonstrate that DDX5 serves as a tumor suppressor in tongue cancer. The high expression of DDX5 is correlated with better prognosis for clinical tongue cancer patients. DDX5 downregulates the genes associated with tongue cancer progression. The knockdown of DDX5 promotes, while the overexpression of DDX5 inhibits, tongue cancer proliferation, development, and cisplatin resistance. Furthermore, the expression of DDX5 in tongue cancer is associated with immune cell infiltration in the tumor microenvironment. Specifically, the expression of DDX5 is associated with the reduced infiltration of M2 macrophages and increased infiltration of T cell clusters, which may contribute to anticancer effects in the tumor microenvironment. In this study, we establish DDX5 as a valuable prognostic biomarker and an important tumor suppressor in tongue cancer.
Non-Vitamin K Antagonist Oral Anticoagulants versus Low Molecular Weight Heparin for Cancer-Related Venous Thromboembolic Events: Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yau Chun En , Low Chen Ee , Ong Natasha Yixuan , Rana Sounak , Chew Lucas Jun Rong , Tyebally Sara Moiz , Chai Ping , Yeo Tiong-Cheng , Chan Mark Y. , Lee Matilda Xinwei , Tan Li-Ling , Koo Chieh-Yang , Lee Ainsley Ryan Yan Bin , Sia Ching-Hui
Published: December 2023

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in cancer patients. Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) has been the standard of care but new guidelines have approved the use of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOAC). By conducting an individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the outcomes of NOAC versus LMWH in cancer patients, we aim to determine an ideal strategy for the prophylaxis of VTE and prevention of VTE recurrence. Three databases were searched from inception until 19 October 2022. IPD was reconstructed from Kaplan–Meier curves. Shared frailty, stratified Cox and Royston–Parmar models were fit to compare the outcomes of venous thromboembolism recurrence and major bleeding. For studies without Kaplan–Meier curves, aggregate data meta-analysis was conducted using random-effects models. Eleven RCTs involving 4844 patients were included. Aggregate data meta-analysis showed that administering NOACs led to a significantly lower risk of recurrent VTE (RR = 0.65; 95%CI: 0.50–0.84) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) (RR = 0.60; 95%CI: 0.40–0.90). In the IPD meta-analysis, NOAC when compared with LMWH has an HR of 0.65 (95%CI: 0.49–0.86) for VTE recurrence. Stratified Cox and Royston–Parmar models demonstrated similar results. In reducing risks of recurrent VTE and DVT among cancer patients, NOACs are superior to LMWHs without increased major bleeding.
Clinical, Histopathological and Molecular Spectrum of Cutaneous Lesions in Myelodysplastic Syndrome and Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MDS/MPN): An Integrative Review
Authors: Prieto-Torres Lucía , Requena Luis , Rodríguez-Pinilla Socorro Maria
Published: December 2023

Myeloid neoplasms and acute leukemias include different entities that have been recently re-classified taking into account molecular and clinicopathological features. The myelodysplastic syndrome/myeloproliferative neoplasm (MDS/MPN) category comprises a heterogeneous group of hybrid neoplastic myeloid diseases characterized by the co-occurrence of clinical and pathological features of both myelodysplastic and myeloproliferative neoplasms. The most frequent entity in this category is chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) which is, after acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the main myeloid disorder prone to develop cutaneous manifestations. Skin lesions associated with myelodysplastic and myeloproliferative neoplasms include a broad clinical, histopathological and molecular spectrum of lesions, poorly understood and without a clear-cut classification in the current medical literature. The aim of this review is to describe and classify the main clinical, histopathological and molecular patterns of cutaneous lesions in the setting of MDS/MPN in order to improve the diagnostic skills of the dermatologists, hematologists and pathologists who deal with these patients.
Determinants Affecting the Clinical Implementation of a Molecularly Informed Molecular Tumor Board Recommendation: Experience from a Tertiary Cancer Center
Authors: Tögel Lars , Schubart Christoph , Lettmaier Sebastian , Neufert Clemens , Hoyer Juliane , Wolff Kerstin , Moskalev Evgeny A , Stöhr Robert , Agaimy Abbas , Reis André , Wullich Bernd , Mackensen Andreas , Pavel Marianne , Beckmann Matthias W. , Hartmann Arndt , Fietkau Rainer , Meidenbauer Norbert , Haller Florian , Spoerl Silvia
Published: December 2023

Molecular Tumor Boards (MTBs) converge state-of-the-art next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods with the expertise of an interdisciplinary team consisting of clinicians, pathologists, human geneticists, and molecular biologists to provide molecularly informed guidance in clinical decision making to the treating physician. In the present study, we particularly focused on elucidating the factors impacting on the clinical translation of MTB recommendations, utilizing data generated from gene panel mediated comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) of 554 patients at the MTB of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen, Germany, during the years 2016 to 2020. A subgroup analysis of cases with available follow-up data (n = 332) revealed 139 cases with a molecularly informed MTB recommendation, which was successfully implemented in the clinic in 44 (31.7%) of these cases. Here, the molecularly matched treatment was applied in 45.4% (n = 20/44) of cases for ≥6 months and in 25% (n = 11/44) of cases for 12 months or longer (median time to treatment failure, TTF: 5 months, min: 1 month, max: 38 months, ongoing at data cut-off). In general, recommendations were preferentially implemented in the clinic when of high (i.e., tier 1) clinical evidence level. In particular, this was the case for MTB recommendations suggesting the application of PARP, PIK3CA, and IDH1/2 inhibitors. The main reason for non-compliance to the MTB recommendation was either the application of non-matched treatment modalities (n = 30)/stable disease (n = 7), or deteriorating patient condition (n = 22)/death of patient (n = 9). In summary, this study provides an insight into the factors affecting the clinical implementation of molecularly informed MTB recommendations, and careful considerations of these factors may guide future processes of clinical decision making.
Autologous Stem Cell Transplant in Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, Multiple Myeloma, and AL Amyloidosis
Authors: Alnasser Sulaiman Mohammed , Alharbi Khalid Saad , Almutairy Ali F. , Almutairi Sulaiman Mohammed , Alolayan Abdulmalik Mohammed
Published: December 2023

Human body cells are stem cell (SC) derivatives originating from bone marrow. Their special characteristics include their capacity to support the formation and self-repair of the cells. Cancer cells multiply uncontrollably and invade healthy tissues, making stem cell transplants a viable option for cancer patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy (HDC). When chemotherapy is used at very high doses to eradicate all cancer cells from aggressive tumors, blood-forming cells and leukocytes are either completely or partially destroyed. Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is necessary for patients in those circumstances. The patients who undergo autologous transplants receive their own stem cells (SCs). The transplanted stem cells first come into contact with the bone marrow and then undergo engraftment, before differentiating into blood cells. ASCT is one of the most significant and innovative strategies for treating diseases. Here we focus on the treatment of Hodgkin’s lymphoma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and AL amyloidosis, using ASCT. This review provides a comprehensive picture of the effectiveness and the safety of ASCT as a therapeutic approach for these diseases, based on the currently available evidence.
Targeting Cx43 to Reduce the Severity of Pressure Ulcer Progression
Authors: Kwek Milton Sheng Yi , Thangaveloo Moogaambikai , Madden Leigh E. , Phillips Anthony R. J. , Becker David L.
Published: December 2023

In the skin, repeated incidents of ischemia followed by reperfusion can result in the breakdown of the skin and the formation of a pressure ulcer. Here we gently applied paired magnets to the backs of mice to cause ischemia for 1.5 h and then removed them to allow reperfusion. The sterile inflammatory response generated within 4 h causes a stage 1 pressure ulcer with an elevation of the gap junction protein Cx43 in the epidermis. If this process is repeated the insult will result in a more severe stage 2 pressure ulcer with a breakdown of the epidermis 2–3 days later. After a single pinch, the elevation of Cx43 in the epidermis is associated with the inflammatory response with an increased number of neutrophils, HMGB1 (marker of necrosis) and RIP3 (responsible for necroptosis). Delivering Cx43 specific antisense oligonucleotides sub-dermally after a single insult, was able to significantly reduce the elevation of epidermal Cx43 protein expression and reduce the number of neutrophils and prevent the elevation of HMGB1 and RIP3. In a double pinch model, the Cx43 antisense treatment was able to reduce the level of inflammation, necroptosis, and the extent of tissue damage and progression to an open wound. This approach may be useful in reducing the progression of stage 1 pressure ulcers to stage 2.
Repurposing Metabolic Inhibitors in the Treatment of Colon Adenocarcinoma Patient-Derived Models
Authors: Lee Bora , Lee ChuHee , Moon Hae-Min , Jo Se-Young , Jang Se Jin , Suh Young-Ah
Published: December 2023

The effect of agonists on AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), mainly metformin and phenformin, has been appreciated in the treatment of multiple types of tumors. Specifically, the antitumor activity of phenformin has been demonstrated in melanomas containing the v-Raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 (BRAF) activating mutation. In this report, we elucidated the synergistic antitumor effects of biguanides with metabolism inhibitors on colon tumors. Phenformin with 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG) inhibited tumor cell growth in cancer cell lines, including HT29 cells harboring BRAF- and p53-mutations. Biochemical analyses showed that two chemotherapeutics exerted cooperative effects to reduce tumor growth through cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and autophagy. The drugs demonstrated activity against phosphorylated ERK and the gain-of-function p53 mutant protein. To demonstrate tumor regressive effects in vivo, we established patient-derived models, including xenograft (PDX) and organoids (PDO). Co-treatment of biguanides with chemotherapeutics efficiently reduced the growth of patient-derived colon models in comparison to treatment with a single agent. These results strongly suggest that significant therapeutic advantages would be achieved by combining AMPK activators such as phenformin and cancer metabolic inhibitors such as 2DG.
Improvement in Yield of Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Edelweiss Callus Treated with LED Light and Enhancement of Skin Anti-Aging Indicators
Authors: Kim Mi-Jung , Ko Hoon , Kim Ji-Young , Kim Hye-Jin , Kim Hwi-Yeob , Cho Hang-Eui , Cho Hyun-Dae , Seo Won-Sang , Kang Hee-Cheol
Published: December 2023

The process of skin aging is currently recognized as a disease, and extracellular vesicles (EVs) are being used to care for it. While various EVs are present in the market, there is a growing need for research on improving skin conditions through microbial and plant-derived EVs. Edelweiss is a medicinal plant and is currently an endangered species. Callus culture is a method used to protect rare medicinal plants, and recently, research on EVs using callus culture has been underway. In this study, the researchers used LED light to increase the productivity of Edelweiss EVs and confirmed that productivity was enhanced by LED exposure. Additionally, improvements in skin anti-aging indicators were observed. Notably, M-LED significantly elevated callus fresh and dry weight, with a DW/FW ratio of 4.11%, indicating enhanced proliferation. Furthermore, M-LED boosted secondary metabolite production, including a 20% increase in total flavonoids and phenolics. The study explores the influence of M-LED on EV production, revealing a 2.6-fold increase in concentration compared to darkness. This effect is consistent across different plant species (Centella asiatica, Panax ginseng), demonstrating the universality of the phenomenon. M-LED-treated EVs exhibit a concentration-dependent inhibition of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, surpassing dark-cultured EVs. Extracellular melanin content analysis reveals M-LED-cultured EVs’ efficacy in reducing melanin production. Additionally, the expression of key skin proteins (FLG, AQP3, COL1) is significantly higher in fibroblasts treated with M-LED-cultured EVs. These results are expected to provide valuable insights into research on improving the productivity of plant-derived EVs and enhancing skin treatment using plant-derived EVs.
Developing a Sprayed-Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Retrofitting System for Decommissioned Wooden Utility Poles
Authors: Abdallah Amr E. , Chen Shukai , El-Salakawy Ehab F.
Published: December 2023

Wooden utility poles are vulnerable to degradation and decay, which requires maintenance or replacement. The strengthening and retrofitting techniques for wooden poles are either prone to corrosion or encountering installation difficulties. However, the use of sprayed fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites seems to be a viable solution as it has proven its efficiency and applicability for reinforced concrete members and connections. This study includes a comprehensive experimental program where the mechanical properties of the sprayed-glass FRP (GFRP) composite was evaluated in terms of tensile, compressive and shear strength, in addition to its bond strength to wood and confinement efficiency. Afterwards, the results of the material testing phase were implemented on full-scale old utility poles to evaluate their structural performance with varying composite thicknesses and sprayed zone lengths. The behavior of the retrofitted poles reflected remarkable effectiveness for the sprayed-GFRP composite and highlighted the need for a design model for the optimum length for the sprayed zone. Two simplified analytical models were introduced which predicted the failure loads and locations for the tested poles and estimated the required length for the retrofitted zone, which all agreed well with the experimental results of the tested poles.
Methods for REM Sleep Density Analysis: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kishi Tamires Tiemi , Andersen Monica Levy , Luciano Ygor Matos , Kakazu Viviane Akemi , Tufik Sergio , Pires Gabriel Natan
Published: December 2023

Rapid eye movements (REM) sleep density is the parameter proposed to explain the variability in the amount of eye movements during REM sleep. Alterations in REM sleep density have been proposed as a screening criterion for individuals with depression and other mental health conditions, but its accuracy has not been properly evaluated. The lack of consensus and the variability of the methods used to score it reduces the external validity of the results, hindering an adequate analysis of its diagnostic accuracy and clinical applicability. This scoping review aimed to identify and quantify the methods used to score REM sleep density, describing their main characteristics. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, PsycInfo, and Web of Science. Only studies with objective measures for REM sleep density analysis in individuals with depression were considered eligible. The final sample comprised 57 articles, covering 64 analyses of REM sleep density. The relative frequency methods were the predominant measurement parameter for analyzing REM sleep density across studies. The most frequently adopted REM estimation unit was the number of REM events followed by mini-epochs containing REM. The most common unit of measurement were frequency/time measures. The results demonstrate that there is no consistency in the methods used to calculate REM sleep density in the literature, and a high percentage of studies do not describe their methods in sufficient detail. The most used method was the number of REM episodes per minute of REM sleep, but its use is neither unanimous nor consensual. The methodological inconsistencies and omissions among studies limit the replicability, comparability, and clinical applicability of REM sleep density. Future guidelines should discuss and include a specific methodology for the scoring of REM sleep density, so it can be consensually implemented in clinical services and research.
Decorative Coatings of the Saint Demetrius Basarabov Reliquary’s Wooden Pedestal
Authors: Stanculescu Ioana , Filimon Daniela , Protopopescu Vlad , Balta Zizi , Mirea Dragos , Cristea-Stan Daniela , Lungu Ion Bogdan
Published: December 2023

This study presents the results and information revealed by in-depth physicochemical investigations carried out on an 18th-century polychrome wooden pedestal of the holy relics of Saint Demetrius Basarabov preserved at the Romanian Patriarchy of Bucharest. The preliminary stylistic observations and examinations on its present state of conservation were followed by optical microscopy, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry, and attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR) analysis performed in order to adopt an appropriate restoration treatment for bringing the artifact, as close as possible, to its original appearance as well as for dating/attributing the artifact and assessing its state of conservation. It was revealed that several interventions were subsequently undertaken on the original gilded surface consisting of a gypsum support layer with an iron oxide layer of bolus on which a silver foil or a gold foil and a natural resin on top of it as a protective layer were applied. The regilding and later restoration interventions consisted in applying, over the original, layers of a copper–zinc alloy foil (Dutch metal as an imitation of gold) with a resin layer of vernis over it. The final decision on the restoration intervention was taken based on the scientific analysis outcome. This work attempts also to highlight the importance of the interdisciplinary collaboration between researchers, conservation scientists, restorers/conservators, and curators for the preservation and valorization of the historical religious Romanian heritage artifacts, largely unknown worldwide.
Chemisorption and Surface Reaction of Hafnium Precursors on the Hydroxylated Si(100) Surface
Authors: Tai Truong Ba , Lim Jonghun , Shin Hyeyoung
Published: December 2023

Hafnium oxide (HfO2) is widely recognized as one of the most promising high-k dielectric materials due to its remarkable properties such as high permittivity, wide band gap, and excellent thermal and chemical stability. The atomic layer deposition (ALD) of HfO2 has attracted significant attention in recent decades since it enables uniform and conformal deposition of HfO2 thin films on various substrates. In this study, we examined the initial surface reactions of a series of homoleptic hafnium precursors on hydroxylated Si(100) surfaces using density functional theory calculations. Our theoretical findings align with previous experimental studies, indicating that hafnium amides exhibit higher reactivity compared to other precursors such as hafnium alkoxides and hafnium halides in surface reactions. Interestingly, we found that the chemisorption and reactivity of hafnium precursors are considerably affected by their thermal stability and size. For alkoxide precursors, which have similar thermal stabilities, the size of alkoxide ligands is an important factor in determining their reactivity. Conversely, the reactivity of hafnium halides, which have ligands of similar sizes, is primarily governed by their thermal stability. These insights are valuable for understanding the surface reaction mechanisms of precursors on hydroxylated Si(100) surfaces and for designing new materials, particularly heteroleptic precursors, in future research.
Effect of Film Thickness on Microstructural and Magnetic Properties of Lithium Ferrite Films Prepared on Strontium Titanate (001) Substrates
Authors: Liu Kun , Zhang Ruyi , Lu Lu , Li Jiankang , Zhang Songyou
Published: December 2023

Epitaxial lithium ferrite (LiFe5O8) films with different thicknesses were successfully fabricated on strontium titanate (SrTiO3) (001) substrates using the magnetron sputtering deposition technique. The microstructural and magnetic properties of the films were characterized by an advanced transmission electron microscope and a magnetic measurement device. It was found that the formation of structural defects can be influenced by the thickness of the film. In addition to misfit dislocations, orientation domains form in thinner films and twin boundaries appear in thicker films, respectively, contributing to the misfit strain relaxation in the heterosystem. The magnetic measurement showed that the thinner films have enhanced magnetization and a relatively lower coercive field compared with the thicker films containing antiferromagnetic twin boundaries. Our results provide a way of tuning the microstructure and magnetic properties of lithium ferrite films by changing the film thickness.
Physical and Chemical Properties of High-Temperature Silicone-Based Polymer Coatings Applied on Different Surface Roughnesses
Authors: Stojanović Ivan , Škrlec Borna , Kurtela Marin , Alar Vesna , Odeljan Martina
Published: December 2023

High-temperature coatings play a crucial role in protecting surfaces exposed to extreme temperatures, corrosion, and other harsh environments. This paper focuses on the physical and chemical properties of solvent-borne and water-borne high-temperature silicone-based polymer coatings applied on two types of surface roughness of carbon steel plates. The corrosion protection performance of the coatings was characterized using a salt spray chamber, humidity chamber, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The physical properties of high-temperature coatings were determined using the Shore D hardness method and cross-cut adhesion tests. This study investigates the effects of different surface preparation methods on coating adhesion, which is considered to be a crucial property of organic coatings for corrosion protection durability. The thermal stability of the coating was tested using furnace cyclic testing. The results show that high-temperature coatings in general exhibit excellent thermal stability, high adhesion strength, and good resistance to warm and humid environments, except in the conditions of a salty atmosphere. This study reveals that coating performance is affected by the composition and surface preparation method. This study can be useful for coating manufacturers and researchers interested in understanding the physical and chemical properties of high-temperature coatings and their applications in various environments.
Eggshell-Mediated Hematite Nanoparticles: Synthesis and Their Biomedical, Mineralization, and Biodegradation Applications
Authors: Ayub Maida , Bashir Mahwish , Majid Farzana , Shahid Rabia , Khan Babar Shahzad , Saeed Adnan , Shaik Mohammed Rafi , Kuniyil Mufsir , Shaik Baji , Khan Mujeeb
Published: December 2023

The present study demonstrates the synthesis of phase pure hematite (α-Fe2O3) nanoparticles (NPs) using collagen protein and calcium carbonate extracted from eggshell membranes and eggshells, respectively, as organic additives. To test the influence of organic additives on the quality of the resulting NPs, the amount of eggshell powder was varied between 1 to 5 g in aqueous iron nitrate solution. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and RAMAN analysis confirmed the formation of hematite NPs without any impurities. FTIR spectra revealed the presence of polyphenolic constituents on the surface of the resulting NPs as stabilizers, which may potentially be responsible for the observed antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Furthermore, the stable phase and the presence of low defects divulged the high hardness value (~983 HV) and fracture toughness (8.59 MPa m1/2), which can be exploited for bone implantation. The FE-SEM results demonstrate the formation of spherical particles, which are well-separated NPs. The results of a biodegradation study which was carried out in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) revealed that the as-prepared NPs retained their hardness even after 72 h of soaking. These prepared NPs showed 95% radical scavenging activity (RSA) and were good carriers against S. aureus bacteria. Moreover, the SEM images of the mineralization of iron oxide NPs confirmed the formation of new bone. After 5 weeks, all pores were filled, and the minerals were deposited on the surfaces of the scaffolds.
Exploring a Rarity: Incidence of and Therapeutic Approaches for Neurological Complications and Hypophysitis in Cancer Patients on Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors—A Single-Center Study
Authors: Amylidi Anna Lea , Gogadis Aristeidis , Yerolatsite Melina , Zarkavelis George , Torounidou Nanteznta , Keramisanou Varvara , Kampletsas Eleftherios , Mauri Davide
Published: December 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA-4 inhibitors, have become the standard of care for many cancer types. However, they induce immune-related adverse events (irAEs), including neurotoxicity and hypophysitis. The incidence and outcomes of neurotoxicity and hypophysitis in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors are not well established. We conducted a retrospective study of 812 patients with solid cancers who received immune checkpoint inhibitors at the University General Hospital of Ioannina between January 2018 and January 2023. We assessed demographic and clinical data, including the severity of symptoms, treatment regimen, other irAEs, resolution type and time, and death. Two patients experienced neurotoxicity and two hypophysitis. All four patients required inpatient administration and received corticosteroids or/and hormone replacement. Three patients responded to the initial therapy, experiencing full recovery, while one patient was corticosteroid-resistant, and immunoglobin G was administered. Two patients never received immunotherapy after their toxicity due to the severity of symptoms; one patient continued monotherapy with nivolumab, changing from combination therapy with ipilimumab–nivolumab, while the fourth patient continued his initial treatment with nivolumab. Our study suggests that the incidence of neurotoxicity and hypophysitis in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors is low, but careful monitoring and prompt treatment with corticosteroids are necessary for effective management.
Breast Volume Is a Predictor of Higher Heart Dose in Whole-Breast Supine Free-Breathing Volumetric-Modulated Arc Therapy Planning
Authors: Alaimo Rita , Ippolito Edy , Falconi Rita , Perrone Congedi Francesca , Sciommari Cecilia , Silipigni Sonia , Pellegrini Roberto , Carnevale Alessia , Greco Carlo , Fiore Michele , D’Angelillo Rolando M. , Ramella Sara
Published: December 2023

In breast cancer volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) planning, the rotation of the gantry around the target implies a greater dose spreading to the whole heart, compared to tangential-field standard treatment. A consecutive cohort of 121 breast cancer patients treated with the VMAT technique was investigated. The correlation of breast volume, heart volume and lung volume with mean heart dose (mHD) and mean and maximum LAD dose (mLAD dose, MLAD dose) was tested, and a subsequent a linear regression analysis was carried out. VMAT treatment plans from 56 left breast cancer and 65 right breast cancer patients were analyzed. For right-sided patients, breast volume was significantly correlated with mHD, mLAD and MLAD dose, while for left-sided patients, breast volume was significantly correlated with mHD and mLAD, while heart volume and lung volume were correlated with mHD, mLAD and MLAD dose. Breast volume was the only predictor of increased heart and LAD dose (p ≤ 0.001) for right-sided patients. In left-sided patients, heart and lung were also predictors of increased mHD (p = 0.005, p ≤ 0.001) and mean LAD dose (p = 0.009, p ≤ 0.001). In this study, we observed an increase in heart and LAD doses in larger-breasted patients treated with VMAT planning. In right-sided patients, breast volume was shown to be the only predictor of increased heart dose and LAD dose.
Integrative Taxonomy of Turcinoemacheilus Bănărescu & Nalbant, 1964 in West Asia with the Description of Three New Species (Teleostei: Nemacheilidae)
Authors: Jouladeh-Roudbar Arash , Vatandoust Saber , Doadrio Ignacio , Ghanavi Hamid Reza
Published: December 2023

Nemacheilid fishes in the genus Turcinoemacheilus are physically small members of the ichthyofauna communities of high-altitude and mountainous freshwater ecosystems. They are all distributed in Western Asia apart from a single species, described in the Himalayas. They are usually very similar in appearance, which complicates their proper identification and/or description. This is why it is important to use multidisciplinary and integrative taxonomical approaches in order to study their true diversity. In this study, three new species of Turcinoemacheilus are described from Iran, raising the total number of valid species to nine. Turcinoemacheilus ansari new species, is distinguished by the anus being situated behind the midpoint of the pelvic-fin and anal-fin origins and the short anal-fin base length. Turcinoemacheilus christofferi new species, differs by the anus being situated behind the midpoint of the pelvic-fin and anal-fin origins, with a complete lateral line reaching to the anterior part of the caudal fin. Turcinoemacheilus moghbeli new species, is distinguished by the anus being situated at or in front of the midpoint of the pelvic-fin and anal-fin origins, with a great pre-pelvic distance and a caudal peduncle length 1.5–2.3 times its length. In Western Asia, all Turcinoemacheilus species are well separated by molecular characters, showing between 3.6 and 14.1% uncorrected p genetic distances in the COI barcode region. This work shows the importance of studying the hidden diversity of under-sampled and understudied groups of organisms to have a clear image of true biodiversity in order to effectively conserve and protect it.
Urban Beetle Diversity in Natural History Collections—A Hundred-Year Perspective
Authors: Ružanović Lea , Mičetić Stanković Vlatka
Published: December 2023

Natural history museum collections are essential for understanding biodiversity and environmental changes, especially in large cities with rapid urbanization. While the collaboration between curators and taxonomists with ecologists becomes more frequent, the museum collections still are not used to their full potential. This study aimed to digitize beetle specimens from Zagreb, which are kept in the Croatian Natural History Museum collections, provide recent nomenclature, analyse the proportion of currently endangered species, georeference, and compare the sampling locations with today’s iNaturalist citizen science records, as well as land cover changes between the time of collection creation and now. Comparing the sampling locations of collection specimens and citizen science records, it is possible to track the city’s expansion. Beetle family composition is more similar in the city centre than on the outskirts of Zagreb, where land cover changes are more pronounced. The districts in the northern part of Zagreb held higher numbers of threatened saproxylic beetles in both museum collections and citizen science records, highlighting the importance of urban parks and forests and providing insights into potential conservation threats. Museum collections have proved to be a valuable source of biodiversity records frozen in time, helping us track the urban beetle fauna decline.
Capacity, Collision Avoidance and Shopping Rate under a Social Distancing Regime
Authors: Zhong Haitian , Sankoff David
Published: December 2023

Capacity restrictions in stores, maintained by mechanisms like spacing customer intake, became familiar features of retailing in the time of the pandemic. Shopping rates in a crowded store under a social distancing regime are prone to considerable slowdown. Inspired by the random particle collision concepts of statistical mechanics, we introduce a dynamical model of the evolution of the shopping rate as a function of a given customer intake rate. The slowdown of each individual customer is incorporated as an additive term to the baseline value of the shopping time, proportionally to the number of other customers in the store. We determine analytically and via simulation the trajectory of the model as it approaches a Little’s law equilibrium and identify the point beyond which equilibrium cannot be achieved. By relating the customer shopping rate to the slowdown compared with the baseline, we can calculate the optimal intake rate leading to maximum equilibrium spending. This turns out to be the maximum rate compatible with equilibrium. The slowdown due to the largest possible number of shoppers is more than compensated for by the increased volume of shopping. This macroscopic model is validated by simulation experiments in which avoidance interactions between pairs of shoppers are responsible for shopping delays.
Minimal Linear Codes Constructed from Sunflowers
Authors: Wu Xia , Lu Wei
Published: December 2023

Sunflower in coding theory is a class of important subspace codes and can be used to construct linear codes. In this paper, we study the minimality of linear codes over Fq constructed from sunflowers of size s in all cases. For any sunflower, the corresponding linear code is minimal if s≥q+1, and not minimal if 2≤s≤3≤q. In the case where 3<s≤q, for some sunflowers, the corresponding linear codes are minimal, whereas for some other sunflowers, the corresponding linear codes are not minimal.
How Quantum Mechanics Requires Non-Additive Measures
Authors: Carcassi Gabriele , Aidala Christine A.
Published: December 2023

Measure theory is used in physics, not just to capture classical probability, but also to quantify the number of states. In previous works, we found that state quantification plays a foundational role in classical mechanics, and, therefore, we set ourselves to construct the quantum equivalent of the Liouville measure. Unlike the classical counterpart, this quantized measure is non-additive and has a unitary lower bound (i.e., no set of states can have less than one state). Conversely, requiring that state quantification is finite for finite continuous regions and that each state counts as one already implies non-additivity, which in turn implies the failure of classical theory. In this article we show these preliminary results and outline a new line of inquiry that may provide a different insight into the foundations of quantum theory. Additionally, this new approach may prove to be useful to those interested in a quantized theory of space-time, as we believe this requires a quantized measure for the quantification of the independent degrees of freedom.
Exploring the Role of Building Envelope in Reducing Energy Poverty Risk: A Case Study on Italian Social Housing
Authors: Fabbri Kristian , Marchi Lia , Antonini Ernesto , Gaspari Jacopo
Published: December 2023

Energy poverty is a significant social, economic, and health issue which increasingly affects millions of households worldwide. Both climate change and the socio-economic crisis have aggravated this phenomenon, making families unable to keep adequate comfort conditions at home because of economic constraints and/or dwelling inefficiencies. Considering the recent inflation trends, as well as the global effort to reduce the building sector’s carbon emissions, energy retrofitting of buildings emerges as the most forward-looking strategy to cope with energy poverty risk. In the case of large building stocks, which are typical for social housing complexes across the EU, deep and fast energy retrofitting might prove challenging, especially considering the resource shortages and disruptions to occupants that may arise. Therefore, this article investigates the relationship between the envelope’s insulation ratio and the risk of energy poverty for households. To this end, diverse scenarios are defined, corresponding to progressive increases in the percentage of building envelope that is insulated. The resulting energy needs are calculated for each of them and correlated with local average incomes and relative energy expenses of households. This is tested on an Italian social housing demo case. The results confirm a predictable but not linear correlation between thermal insulation and reduced energy needs for heating, and an interesting side effect on cooling needs for scenarios that perform better in winter. As for income, energy cost has a greater effect on the energy poverty risk when monthly rent is lower, while energy prices have a major role when rent per month is higher.
A New Vehicle-Specific Power Model for the Estimation of Hybrid Vehicle Emissions
Authors: Kozina Ante , Vidović Tino , Radica Gojmir , Vučetić Ante
Published: December 2023

Hybrid electric vehicles are certainly one of the key solutions for improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions, especially in terms of special vehicles and with the use of CO2-neutral fuels. Determining the energy management strategy and finding the optimal solution with regard to the aforementioned goals remains one of the main challenges in the design of HEVs. This paper presents a new vehicle modeling method, with an emphasis on HEVs, which is based on the frequency analysis of emissions and consumption according to the current specific traction power of the vehicle. An evaluation of the newly introduced model in the RDE, NEDC and WLTP cycle was performed, and the results were compared with the standard verified vehicle model that was created in AVL’s CruiseM R2021.2 software package. Positive traction energies have positive deviations of between 0.35% and 2.85%. The largest deviation in CO2 emissions was recorded for the HEV model in the RDE cycle and in the non-hybrid model in the WLTP cycle and were 3.79% and 4.4%, respectively. All other combinations of cycle and vehicles had deviations of up to about 1%. As expected, the largest relative deviations were recorded for NOx emissions and ranged from 0.13% to 9.62% for HEVs in the WLTP cycle.
Sizing with Technical Indicators of Microgrids with Battery Energy Storage Systems: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vasconcelos Andrea , Monteiro Amanda , Costa Tatiane , Rode Ana Clara , Marinho Manoel H. N. , Filho Roberto Dias , Maciel Alexandre M. A.
Published: December 2023

Worldwide, governmental organizations are restructuring energy policies, making them cleaner, encouraging transformation and energy transition by integrating renewable sources, engaging in environmental preservation, and, notably, meeting the growing demand for sustainable energy models, such as solar and wind energy. In the electricity sector, reducing carbon emissions is crucial to facilitating the integration of microgrids (MGs) with renewable sources and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESSs). This work constitutes a systematic review that thoroughly analyzes the sizing of MGs with BESSs. The unpredictability and variability of renewable sources justify the complexity of this analysis and the loads connected to the system. Additionally, the sizing of a BESS depends primarily on the application, battery technology, and the system’s energy demand. This review mapped and identified existing computational and optimization methodologies for structured sizing in technical indicators of an MG with a BESS based on articles published between 2017 and 2021. A protocol was defined in which articles were filtered in multiple stages, undergoing strategic refinements to arrive at the final articles to address the Research Questions (RQs). The final number of articles was 44, and within these, technical indicators related to the RQs were addressed, covering the most relevant works and comparing them technically, including how each explains the objective and result of their work. The rejected articles did not meet the criteria established by the defined protocol, such as exclusion criteria, quality criteria, and RQs. In conclusion, studies employing the integration of machine learning coupled with optimization techniques exhibit a significant contribution to results, as historical data can aid machine learning for data prediction.
Frictional Losses of Ring Pack in SI and HCCI Engine
Authors: Koszalka Grzegorz , Wolff Andrzej
Published: December 2023

The vast majority of research dedicated to enhancing the homogenous charge compression ignition (HCCI) low-temperature combustion system is focused on improving controllability, efficiency and emissions. This article aims to assess the impact of HCCI combustion on the operation of the piston ring system. Utilizing the measured pressures in the combustion chamber of a single-cylinder research engine operating in spark ignition (SI) and HCCI modes at various loads, simulations were carried out using an advanced ring pack model. This model integrates the gas flow, ring dynamics and ring mixed lubrication models. Simulations revealed that differences in the pressure above the piston between the HCCI and SI combustion significantly influence ring pack performance. The predicted energy losses due to the friction of piston rings against the cylinder liner are up to 5% higher in the HCCI engine than in the SI engine. This identified drawback diminishes the advantages of the HCCI engine resulting from higher thermal efficiency, and efforts should be made to minimize this negative impact.
FedGrid: A Secure Framework with Federated Learning for Energy Optimization in the Smart Grid
Authors: Gupta Harshit , Agarwal Piyush , Gupta Kartik , Baliarsingh Suhana , Vyas O. P. , Puliafito Antonio
Published: December 2023

In the contemporary energy landscape, power generation comprises a blend of renewable and non-renewable resources, with the major supply of electrical energy fulfilled by non-renewable sources, including coal and gas, among others. Renewable energy resources are challenged by their dependency on unpredictable weather conditions. For instance, solar energy hinges on clear skies, and wind energy relies on consistent and sufficient wind flow. However, as a consequence of the finite supply and detrimental environmental impact associated with non-renewable energy sources, it is required to reduce dependence on such non-renewable sources. This can be achieved by precisely predicting the generation of renewable energy using a data-driven approach. The prediction accuracy for electric load plays a very significant role in this system. If we have an appropriate estimate of residential and commercial load, then a strategy could be defined for the efficient supply to them by renewable and non-renewable energy sources through a smart grid, which analyzes the demand-supply and devises the supply mechanism accordingly. Predicting all such components, i.e., power generation and load forecasting, involves a data-driven approach where sensitive data (such as user electricity consumption patterns and weather data near power generation setups) is used for model training, raising the issue of data privacy and security concerns. Hence, the work proposes Federated Smart Grid (FedGrid), a secure framework that would be able to predict the generation of renewable energy and forecast electric load in a privacy-oriented approach through federated learning. The framework collectively analyzes all such predictive models for efficient electric supply.
A Resilience-Oriented Approach for Microgrid Energy Management with Hydrogen Integration during Extreme Events
Authors: Sharifpour Masoumeh , Ameli Mohammad Taghi , Ameli Hossein , Strbac Goran
Published: December 2023

This paper presents a resilience-oriented energy management approach (R-OEMA) designed to bolster the resilience of networked microgrids (NMGs) in the face of extreme events. The R-OEMA method strategically incorporates preventive scheduling techniques for hydrogen (H2) systems, renewable units, controllable distributed generators (DGs), and demand response programs (DRPs). It seeks to optimize the delicate balance between maximizing operating revenues and minimizing costs, catering to both normal and critical operational modes. The evaluation of the R-OEMA framework is conducted through numerical simulations on a test system comprising three microgrids (MGs). The simulations consider various disaster scenarios entailing the diverse durations of power outages. The results underscore the efficacy of the R-OEMA approach in augmenting NMG resilience and refining operational efficiency during extreme events. Specifically, the approach integrates hydrogen systems, demand response, and controllable DGs, orchestrating their collaborative operation with predictive insights. This ensures their preparedness for emergency operations in the event of disruptions, enabling the supply of critical loads to reach 82% in extreme disaster scenarios and 100% in milder scenarios. The proposed model is formulated as a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) framework, seamlessly integrating predictive insights and pre-scheduling strategies. This novel approach contributes to advancing NMG resilience, as revealed by the outcomes of these simulations.
A Methodological Approach to the Simulation of a Ship’s Electric Power System
Authors: Boychuk Igor P. , Grinek Anna V. , Martyushev Nikita V. , Klyuev Roman V. , Malozyomov Boris V. , Tynchenko Vadim S. , Kukartsev Viktor A. , Tynchenko Yadviga A. , Kondratiev Sergey I.
Published: December 2023

Modern ships are complex energy systems containing a large number of different elements. Each of these elements is simulated separately. Since all these models form a single system (ship), they are interdependent. The operating modes of some systems influence others, but at the same time, the work of all the systems should be aimed at fulfilling the basic functions of the ship. The work proposes a methodological approach to combining various systems of ships into a single complex model. This model allows combining models of ship systems of various levels (microlevel, macrolevel, metalevel, megalevel). The work provides examples of models of such multi-level energy systems. These are energy systems composed of an electric generator, a diesel engine, a propeller shaft, and algorithms used for operating the common parts of the ship’s electric power system and a piston wear process. Analytical, structural, numerical, and object-oriented models were made for these objects. Each of these particular models describes a limited class of problems, has characteristic properties, and a mathematical structure. The work shows how particular models can be interconnected using a set-theoretic description. Particular models are combined into macrolevel models, whose output parameters are quantities that are by no means related. The macrolevel models are interrelated using control models. Control models belong to the metalevel and allow for assigning settings and response thresholds to algorithms used in automation systems. Such a model (megalevel model) allows, ultimately, investigating the dynamics of the entire system as a whole and managing it.