bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cancer and Pregnancy: Estimates in Italy from Record-Linkage Procedures between Cancer Registries and the Hospital Discharge Database
Authors: Pierannunzio Daniela , Maraschini Alice , Lopez Tania , Donati Serena , Amodio Rosalba , Bianconi Fortunato , Bruni Rossella , Castaing Marine , Cirilli Claudia , Fantaci Giovanna , Guarda Linda , Iacovacci Silvia , Mangone Lucia , Mazzoleni Guido , Mazzucco Walter , Melcarne Anna , Merlo Elisabetta , Parazzini Fabio , Peccatori Fedro Alessandro , Rugge Massimo , Sampietro Giuseppe , Scambia Giovanni , Scarfone Giovanna , Sferrazza Ausilia , Stracci Fabrizio , Torrisi Antonina , Vitale Maria Francesca , Francisci Silvia
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study is to describe the frequency and trend of pregnancy-associated cancer (PAC) in Italy, an increasingly relevant phenomenon due to postponing age at childbirth. To this purpose, a population-based retrospective longitudinal study design based on cohorts of women aged 15–49 diagnosed with cancer and concomitant pregnancy is proposed. The study uses 19 population-based Cancer Registries, covering about 22% of Italy, and linked at an individual level with Hospital Discharge Records. A total of 2,861,437 pregnancies and 3559 PAC are identified from 74,165 women of the cohort with a rate of 1.24 PAC per 1000 pregnancies. The most frequent cancer site is breast (24.3%), followed by thyroid (23.9%) and melanoma (14.3%). The most frequent outcome is delivery (53.1%), followed by voluntary termination of pregnancy and spontaneous abortion (both 12.0%). The trend of PAC increased from 2003 to 2015, especially when the outcome is delivery, thus confirming a new attitude of clinicians to manage cancer throughout pregnancy. This represents the first attempt in Italy to describe PAC from Cancer Registries data; the methodology is applicable to other areas with the same data availability. Evidence from this study is addressed to clinicians for improving clinical management of women with PAC.
Co-Expression of an IL-15 Superagonist Facilitates Self-Enrichment of GD2-Targeted CAR-NK Cells and Mediates Potent Cell Killing in the Absence of IL-2
Authors: Bodden Malena , Häcker Aline , Röder Jasmin , Kiefer Anne , Zhang Congcong , Bhatti Anita , Pfeifer Serrahima Jordi , Ullrich Evelyn , Kühnel Ines , Wels Winfried S.
Published: August 2023

In contrast to T lymphocytes, natural killer (NK) cells do not require prior sensitization but are rapidly activated upon encountering virally infected or neoplastic cells. In addition, NK cells can be safely applied in an allogeneic setting, making them important effector cells for the development of off-the-shelf therapeutics for adoptive cancer immunotherapy. To further enhance their therapeutic potential, here, we engineered continuously expanding NK-92 cells as a clinically relevant model to express a humanized second-generation chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) with a composite CD28-CD3ζ signaling domain (hu14.18.28.z) that targets the disialoganglioside GD2, which is expressed at high levels by neuroblastoma cells and other tumors of neuroectodermal origin. In a separate approach, we fused an IL-15 superagonist (RD-IL15) to the GD2-CAR via a P2A processing site. Lentivirally transduced NK-92/hu14.18.28.z and NK-92/hu14.18.28.z_RD-IL15 cells both displayed high and stable CAR surface expression and specific cytotoxicity toward GD2-positive tumor cells. GD2-CAR NK cells carrying the RD-IL15 construct in addition expressed the IL-15 superagonist, resulting in self-enrichment and targeted cell killing in the absence of exogenous IL-2. Furthermore, co-culture with RD-IL15-secreting GD2-CAR NK cells markedly enhanced proliferation and cytotoxicity of bystander immune cells in a paracrine manner. Our results demonstrate that GD2-CAR NK cells co-expressing the IL-15 superagonist mediate potent direct and indirect antitumor effects, suggesting this strategy as a promising approach for the further development of functionally enhanced cellular therapeutics.
Downfield Proton MRSI at 3 Tesla: A Pilot Study in Human Brain Tumors
Authors: Özdemir İpek , Kamson David O. , Etyemez Semra , Blair Lindsay , Lin Doris D. M. , Barker Peter B.
Published: August 2023

Purpose: To investigate the use of 3D downfield proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (DF-MRSI) for evaluation of tumor recurrence in patients with glioblastoma (GBM). Methods: Seven patients (4F, age range 44–65 and mean ± standard deviation 59.3 ± 7.5 years) with previously treated GBM were scanned using a recently developed 3D DF-MRSI sequence at 3T. Short TE 3D DF-MRSI and water reference 3D-MRSI scans were collected with a nominal spatial resolution of 0.7 cm3. DF volume data in eight slices covered 12 cm of brain in the cranio-caudal axis. Data were analyzed using the ‘LCModel’ program and a basis set containing nine peaks ranging in frequency between 6.83 to 8.49 ppm. The DF8.18 (assigned to amides) and DF7.90 peaks were selected for the creation of metabolic images and statistical analysis. Longitudinal MR images and clinical history were used to classify brain lesions as either recurrent tumor or treatment effect, which may include necrosis. DF-MRSI data were compared between lesion groups (recurrent tumor, treatment effect) and normal-appearing brain. Results: Of the seven brain tumor patients, two were classified as having recurrent tumor and the rest were classified as treatment effect. Amide metabolite levels from recurrent tumor regions were significantly (p < 0.05) higher compared to both normal-appearing brain and treatment effect regions. Amide levels in lesion voxels classified as treatment effect were significantly lower than normal brain. Conclusions: 3D DF-MRSI in human brain tumors at 3T is feasible and was well tolerated by all patients enrolled in this preliminary study. Amide levels measured by 3D DF-MRSI were significantly different between treatment effect and tumor regrowth.
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Advanced Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Real-World Experience from a Canadian Comprehensive Cancer Centre
Authors: Koch Hein Erica C. , Vilbert Maysa , Hirsch Ian , Fernando Ribeiro Mauricio , Muniz Thiago P. , Fournier Cynthia , Abdulalem Khaled , Saldanha Erick F. , Martinez Erika , Spreafico Anna , Hogg David H. , Butler Marcus O. , Saibil Samuel D.
Published: August 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) cemiplimab and pembrolizumab have revolutionized the treatment of advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of ICI in a real-world cSCC population, including patients with conditions that would exclude clinical trial participation. In this single-center, retrospective cohort study, we included all non-trial patients with advanced cSCC treated with ICI between 2017 and 2022. We evaluated investigator-assessed best overall response (BOR) and immune-related adverse events (irAEs). We correlated survival outcomes with age, performance status, immune status and irAEs. Of the 36 patients identified, the best overall response (BOR) to ICI was a partial response (PR) in 41.7%, a complete response (CR) in 27.8%, and stable disease in (SD) 13.9%. The progression-free survival (PFS) rate for 1 year was 58.1%; the median PFS was 21.3 months (95% CI 6.4–NE). The 1-year overall survival (OS) was 76.7%, and the median OS was 38.6 months (95% CI 25.4–NE). Immune-compromised patients, ECOG performance 2–3, and age ≥ 75 years were not significantly associated with PFS or OS. IrAE grades 3–4 were seen in 13.9% of patients. In our Canadian experience with real-world patients, ICI was an effective and safe treatment for advanced cSCC patients. Patients achieved great benefits with ICI regardless of age, immune status or ECOG performance status. We acknowledge the small sample size and retrospective methodology as the main limitations of our study.
Frequency of CDH1, CTNNA1 and CTNND1 Germline Variants in Families with Diffuse and Mixed Gastric Cancer
Authors: Guerra Joana , Pinto Carla , Pinto Pedro , Pinheiro Manuela , Santos Catarina , Peixoto Ana , Escudeiro Carla , Barbosa Ana , Porto Miguel , Francisco Inês , Lopes Paula , Isidoro Ana Raquel , Cunha Ana Luísa , Albuquerque Cristina , Claro Isabel , Oliveira Carla , Silva João , Teixeira Manuel R.
Published: August 2023

The most well-characterized hereditary form of gastric cancer is hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC), an autosomal dominant syndrome characterized by an increased risk of diffuse gastric and lobular breast cancer. HDGC is predominantly caused by germline pathogenic variants in the CDH1 gene, and more rarely in the CTNNA1 gene. Furthermore, the International Gastric Cancer Linkage Consortium (IGCLC) guidelines do not clarify whether or not mixed gastric cancer (with a diffuse component) should be considered in the HDGC genetic testing criteria. We aimed to evaluate the contribution of CTNNA1 and CTNND1 germline variants to HDGC. Additionally, we also intended to compare the frequencies of CDH1 and CTNNA1 (and eventually CTNND1) germline variants between patients with diffuse and mixed gastric carcinomas to evaluate if genetic testing for these genes should or should not be considered in patients with the latter. We analyzed the CDH1 gene in 67 cases affected with early-onset/familial mixed gastric carcinomas and the CTNNA1 and CTNND1 genes in 208 cases with diffuse or mixed gastric cancer who had tested negative for CDH1 pathogenic germline variants. A deleterious CTNNA1 germline variant was found in 0.7% (1/141) of diffuse gastric cancer patients meeting the 2020 IGCLC criteria, as compared to the rate of 2.8% of CDH1 deleterious variants found by us in this setting. No deleterious variants were found in CTNND1, but six variants of uncertain significance were identified in this gene. We did not find any pathogenic CDH1, CTNNA1 or CTNND1 variant in index patients with early-onset/familial mixed gastric cancer, so there is no evidence that supports including this tumor type in the testing criteria for germline variants in these genes. The role of the CTNND1 gene in inherited gastric cancer predisposition is still unclear.
Suicide after a Diagnosis of Cancer: Follow-Up of 1.4 Million Individuals, 2009–2019
Authors: Michalek Irmina Maria , Caetano dos Santos Florentino Luciano , Wojciechowska Urszula , Didkowska Joanna
Published: August 2023

Background: The study explores whether Polish cancer patients face elevated suicide risk, emphasizing the vital need to comprehend and mitigate their unique mental health struggles. Methods: We conducted a cohort study based on Polish National Cancer Registry data (diagnosis in 2009–2019). Age-, sex-, and year-standardized mortality ratios (SMR) are presented with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) overall and by sex. Results: The study included 1.43 million individuals diagnosed with cancer. There were 830 suicide cases in this group. The overall SMR for suicide was 1.34 (95% CI 1.25–1.43). The highest risk of suicide death was observed in the first six months after diagnosis (SMR = 1.94, 1.69–2.21): cancers of the heart and pleura (19.15, 2.32–69.18), an unspecified site (3.99, 1.09–10.22), and the esophagus (3.34, 1.08–7.79). The highest overall risk of suicide after cancer diagnosis was observed in esophageal (2.94, 1.47–5.26), gastric (2.70, 2.00–3.57), cervical (2.20, 1.06–4.05), and head and neck cancers (2.06, 1.52–2.72). Conclusions: Patients with cancer face significantly higher suicide risk, peaking within six months post-diagnosis. Urgent integration of suicide risk screening and prevention into cancer care is crucial, supporting mental well-being and guiding proactive healthcare strategies.
Diagnostic Approaches for Neuroendocrine Neoplasms of Unknown Primary (NEN-UPs) and Their Prognostic Relevance—A Retrospective, Long-Term Single-Center Experience
Authors: Schmidt Moritz , Hinterleitner Clemens , Singer Stephan , Lauer Ulrich M. , Zender Lars , Hinterleitner Martina
Published: August 2023

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) represent a rare and heterogenous group of tumors with predominantly gastroenteropancreatic or pulmonary origin. Despite numerous diagnostic efforts, the primary tumor site remains unknown in up to 20% of the patients diagnosed with NEN. In this subgroup of NEN patients, a standard diagnostic algorithm has not yet been integrated into clinical routine. Of note, an undetermined primary tumor site in NENs is associated with an impaired clinical outcome by at least “formally” limiting treatment options exclusively approved for NENs of a certain histological origin. In this retrospective study, a patient cohort of 113 patients initially diagnosed with NEN of unknown primary (NEN-UP) was analyzed. In 13 patients (11.5%) a primary tumor site could be identified subsequently, amongst others, by performing somatostatin receptor (SSTR)-PET-based imaging, which was irrespective of the initial clinical or demographic features. Diagnostic work-up and therapeutic regimens did not differ significantly between patients with an identified or unidentified primary tumor site; only a detailed immunohistochemical assessment providing additional information on the tumor origin proved to be significantly associated with the detection of a primary tumor site. Our study revealed that a profound diagnostic work-up, particularly including SSTR-PET-based imaging, leads to additional treatment options, finally resulting in significantly improved clinical outcomes for patients with NEN-UPs.
Estrogens and Estrogen Receptor Modulators in Cancer Research and Therapy
Authors: Treeck Oliver
Published: August 2023

Estrogens affect oncogenesis and tumor progression in a variety of cancer entities [...]
Sleep Duration and Stress Level in the Risk of Gastric Cancer: A Pooled Analysis of Case-Control Studies in the Stomach Cancer Pooling (StoP) Project
Authors: Collatuzzo Giulia , Pelucchi Claudio , Negri Eva , Kogevinas Manolis , Huerta José María , Vioque Jesus , de la Hera Manoli García , Tsugane Shoichiro , Shigueaki Hamada Gerson , Hidaka Akihisa , Zhang Zuo-Feng , Camargo M. Constanza , Curado Maria Paula , Lunet Nuno , La Vecchia Carlo , Boffetta Paolo
Published: August 2023

The association between sleep and stress and cancer is underinvestigated. We evaluated these factors in association with gastric cancer (GC). Five case-control studies from the Stomach Cancer Pooling (StoP) Project were included. We calculated the odds ratios (ORs) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for sleep duration and stress level in association with GC through multiple logistic regression models adjusted for several lifestyle factors. The analysis included 1293 cases and 4439 controls, 215 cardia and 919 noncardia GC, and 353 diffuse and 619 intestinal types. Sleep duration of ≥9 h was associated with GC (OR =1.57, 95% CI = 1.23–2.00) compared to 8 h. This was confirmed when stratifying by subsite (noncardia OR = 1.59, 95% CI = 1.22–2.08, and cardia OR = 1.63, 95% CI = 0.97–2.72) and histological type (diffuse OR = 1.65, 95% CI = 1.14–2.40 and intestinal OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 0.91–1.67). Stress was associated with GC (OR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.18–1.50, continuous). This relationship was selectively related to noncardia GC (OR = 1.28, 95% 1.12–1.46, continuous). The risk of diffuse (OR = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.11–1.58) and intestinal type (OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.07–1.42) were higher when stress was reported. Results for the association between increasing level of stress and GC were heterogeneous by smoking and socioeconomic status (p for heterogeneity = 0.02 and <0.001, respectively). In conclusion, long sleep duration (≥9 h) was associated with GC and its subtype categories. Stress linearly increased the risk of GC and was related to noncardia GC.
Polycystin-1 Interacting Protein-1 (CU062) Interacts with the Ectodomain of Polycystin-1 (PC1)
Authors: Lea Wendy A. , Winklhofer Thomas , Zelenchuk Lesya , Sharma Madhulika , Rossol-Allison Jessica , Fields Timothy A. , Reif Gail , Calvet James P. , Bakeberg Jason L. , Wallace Darren P. , Ward Christopher J.
Published: August 2023

The PKD1 gene, encoding protein polycystin-1 (PC1), is responsible for 85% of cases of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). PC1 has been shown to be present in urinary exosome−like vesicles (PKD−ELVs) and lowered in individuals with germline PKD1 mutations. A label−free mass spectrometry comparison of urinary PKD−ELVs from normal individuals and those with PKD1 mutations showed that several proteins were reduced to a degree that matched the decrease observed in PC1 levels. Some of these proteins, such as polycystin-2 (PC2), may be present in a higher-order multi-protein assembly with PC1—the polycystin complex (PCC). CU062 (Q9NYP8) is decreased in ADPKD PKD−ELVs and, thus, is a candidate PCC component. CU062 is a small glycoprotein with a signal peptide but no transmembrane domain and can oligomerize with itself and interact with PC1. We investigated the localization of CU062 together with PC1 and PC2 using immunofluorescence (IF). In nonconfluent cells, all three proteins were localized in close proximity to focal adhesions (FAs), retraction fibers (RFs), and RF-associated extracellular vesicles (migrasomes). In confluent cells, primary cilia had PC1/PC2/CU062 + extracellular vesicles adherent to their plasma membrane. In cells exposed to mitochondrion-decoupling agents, we detected the development of novel PC1/CU062 + ring-like structures that entrained swollen mitochondria. In contact-inhibited cells under mitochondrial stress, PC1, PC2, and CU062 were observed on large, apically budding extracellular vesicles, where the proteins formed a reticular network on the membrane. CU062 interacts with PC1 and may have a role in the identification of senescent mitochondria and their extrusion in extracellular vesicles.
Presentation of a Rainfall–Runoff Retention Model (3RM) Based on Antecedent Effective Retention for Estimating Runoff in Seven Basins in Iran
Authors: Shamohammadi Shayan , Ghasemi Ahmad Reza , Ostad-Ali-Askari Kaveh , Izadi Saeedeh
Published: August 2023

This study aims to correct and assess the SCS-CN model. In this research, the 3RM model (written by Shamohammadi) has been modified in such a way that the maximum primary retention (I), maximum secondary retention (Fmax), and basin potential retention (Smax) can be calculated using precipitation (Pa). The purpose of this study is to evaluate the total retention model (St=f(Fmax,Smax,pa)) and the runoff model (Q=f(St,pa)) using the mountain basins of Iran, including Emameh, Kasilian, Navrood, Darjazin, Kardeh, Khanmirza, and Mashin. The results showed that the primary retention, maximum secondary retention, and retention capacity are, respectively, 2.3, 30.4, and 32.7 mm in Imamah, 2.5, 48.6, and 51.1 mm in Kasilian, 2.4, 26.7, and 29.1 mm in Navrood, 3.2, 21.5, and 24.7 mm in Darjazin, 1.7, 15.0, and 16.7 mm in Kardeh, 2.5, 33.2, and 38.1 mm in Khanmirza, and 4.9, 44.5, and 50.6 mm in Mashine. Additionally, the λ (ratio of primary retention to potential retention) values for all basins are less than 0.2 (suggested by SCS) and vary between 0.05 in Kasilian and 0.1 in the Darjazin, Kardeh, and Mashine basins. The results of fitting the model to the rainfall-runoff data showed that the evaluation indices, including the coefficient of determination (R2), Nash–Sutcliffe (NS), and root mean square error (RMSE), for predicting the runoff in the basins varied between 0.78 to 0.96, 0.78 to 0.961, and 0.86 to 2.28, respectively. According to the obtained results, it can be concluded that the model has an acceptable ability to predict runoff for all the studied basins.
Effect of Magnesium Hydroxide and Aluminum Hydroxide as Thermal Barriers on the Flame-Retardant Behavior of Acrylic-Based Coating
Authors: Scionti Giuseppe , Piperopoulos Elpida , Atria Mario , Calabrese Luigi , Proverbio Edoardo
Published: August 2023

In the effort to improve fire safety in residential, industrial, or naval structures, the study of flame-retardant coatings has become increasingly interesting. Flame-retardant additives are definitely the most traveled route; however, often these additives are halogenated compounds that increase the amount of smoke and toxic decomposition of the products during polymer combustion. It is necessary to develop new fire retardant (FR) agents that respect the environment and are safe for human health. This work aims to study two completely harmless hydroxides, Mg(OH)2 and Al(OH)3, added in low percentages (2 wt.%) to an already marketed acrylic polymer emulsion (79.2 wt.% of solid content, 37.3 wt.% and 41.8 wt.%, respectively, for polymer and fillers contents) in order to decrease the dangerous effects of these additives on the physical integrity and durability of the coatings. The hydroxides content was added in 6.2 wt.% and 5.6 wt.%, respectively, to polymer and total solids present in the emulsion. Flame exposure tests are conducted at different times (15 s and 30 s) to verify the flame stability and thermal insulation exerted by the investigated coatings. Furthermore, through a precise analysis of the areas damaged by the combustion process, it is possible to link the flame-retardant properties to the FR choice and its particle size, finding a promising solution in the sample based on small Mg(OH)2 particles for fire protection in naval applications.
Microstructure and Defect Analysis of 17-4PH Stainless Steel Fabricated by the Bound Metal Deposition Additive Manufacturing Technology
Authors: Di Pompeo Valerio , Santecchia Eleonora , Santoni Alberto , Sleem Kamal , Cabibbo Marcello , Spigarelli Stefano
Published: August 2023

Metal additive manufacturing (AM) technologies can be classified according to the physical process involving the raw material as fusion-based and solid-state processes. The latter includes sintering-based technologies, which are aligned with conventional fabrication techniques, such as metal injection molding (MIM), and take advantage of the freeform fabrication of the initial green part. In the present work, 17-4PH stainless steel samples were fabricated by material extrusion, or rather bound metal deposition (BMD), a solid-state AM technology. The powder-based raw material was characterized together with samples fabricated using different angular infill strategies. By coupling different characterization technologies, it was possible to identify and classify major properties and defects of the raw material and the fabricated samples. In addition, microstructural modifications were found to be linked with the mesostructural defects typical of the BMD solid-state additive manufacturing technology applied to metals.
Probing Boron Vacancy Complexes in h-BN Semi-Bulk Crystals Synthesized by Hydride Vapor Phase Epitaxy
Authors: Alemoush Zaid , Tingsuwatit Attasit , Li Jing , Lin Jingyu , Jiang Hongxing
Published: August 2023

Hexagonal BN (h-BN) has emerged as an important ultrawide bandgap (UWBG) semiconductor (Eg~6 eV). The crystal growth technologies for producing semi-bulk crystals/epilayers in large wafer sizes and understanding of defect properties lag decades behind conventional III-nitride wide bandgap (WBG) semiconductors. Here we report probing of boron vacancy (VB)-related defects in freestanding h-BN semi-bulk wafers synthesized by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE). A photocurrent excitation spectroscopy (PES) was designed to monitor the transport of photoexcited holes from deep-level acceptors. A dominant transition line at 1.66 eV with a side band near 1.62 eV has been directly observed, which matches well with the calculated energy levels of 1.65 for the VB-H deep acceptor in h-BN. The identification of VB complexes via PES measurement was further corroborated by the temperature-dependent dark resistivity and secondary ion mass spectrometry measurements. The results presented here suggested that it is necessary to focus on the optimization of V/III ratio during HVPE growth to minimize the generation of VB-related defects and to improve the overall material quality of h-BN semi-bulk crystals. The work also provided a better understanding of how VB complexes behave and affect the electronic and optical properties of h-BN.
Abundance, Distribution, and Habitat Preference of Syngnathid Species in Sabaudia Lake (Tyrrhenian Sea)
Authors: Lazic Tamara , Pierri Cataldo , Corriero Giuseppe , Gravina Maria Flavia , Gristina Michele , Ravisato Miriam , Macali Armando
Published: August 2023

Syngnathids are considered flagship species of estuarine and coastal environments. However, most of the Mediterranean species are still classified as data-deficient (DD) at a global level according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. In central Italy, several areas host potentially suitable habitats for syngnathids but have not been previously reported in the literature; the estimation of population parameters and habitat partitioning at these sites may help to assess their conservation status. In this study, we investigated the abundance, distribution, and habitat preferences of sympatric populations of Hippocampus hippocampus, H. guttulatus, Syngnathus abaster, and Nerophis ophidion in Sabaudia Lake (Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy). While confirming the primary importance of a healthy coastal habitat, we retrieved hints about species ecology and habitat use. The species distribution in the study area highlights the role of habitat complexity in supporting local populations of these sensitive species.
Diffuse Reflection Effects in Visible Light Positioning: Analysis, Modeling, and Evaluation
Authors: Zhang Yuanpeng , Yang Xiansheng , Sun Xiao , Wang Yaxin , Ma Tianbing , Zhuang Yuan
Published: August 2023

Currently, the Global Positioning System (GPS) is widely used, but its signal is attenuated by factors such as trees, walls, and ceilings, which severely degrade its positioning accuracy. To fill the gap, various indoor positioning techniques have attracted increasing attention in recent years. Visible light positioning (VLP) is a promising scheme for indoor positioning due to its high precision, high security, and low energy consumption; however, ubiquitous diffuse reflection affects the accuracy and robustness of VLP. During our testing, we found that diffuse reflection could increase the error in RSS values by 20~30%, severely affecting VLP accuracy; however, diffuse reflection is inevitable in real positioning environments. To solve this problem, this paper first establishes a wall diffuse reflection model and then implements a visible light positioning system based on an Internet of Things platform. Finally, this paper uses the system to verify the effectiveness of the diffuse reflection model. The experiments show that the proposed model effectively improves positioning accuracy by 36.7~61.3%.
Recent Achievements in Research on Thermal Comfort and Ventilation in the Aspect of Providing People with Appropriate Conditions in Different Types of Buildings—Semi-Systematic Review
Authors: Ratajczak Katarzyna , Amanowicz Łukasz , Pałaszyńska Katarzyna , Pawlak Filip , Sinacka Joanna
Published: August 2023

Ventilation systems are mainly responsible for maintaining the quality of indoor air. Together with thermal comfort maintenance systems, they create appropriate conditions for living, working, learning, sleeping, etc., depending on the type of building. This explains the high popularity of research in this area. This paper presents a review of articles published in the years 2020–2023, which are indexed in the Scopus database and found with keywords “ventilation” and “thermal comfort” in conjunction with the type of building or predominant activity. Finally, 88 selected works for five types of buildings were discussed, namely offices, schools, hospitals, bedrooms, and atriums. Data on publications are summarized in the tables, taking into account the publishing year, country of origin of the authors, and keywords. In this way, the latest directions in research were presented, and research groups dealing with this subject were highlighted. For each type of building, synthetic conclusions were presented, summarizing the results of the analyzed research. This review paper would be helpful for scientists and practitioners in the field of ventilation in order to organize knowledge and in a short time be up to date with the latest research showing how ventilation affects the quality of use of buildings by their users.
Results of Experiments under the Physical Start-Up Program of the IVG.1M Reactor
Authors: Sabitova Radmila , Popov Yuri , Irkimbekov Ruslan , Prozorova Irina , Derbyshev Ildar , Nurzhanov Erlan , Surayev Artur , Gnyrya Vyacheslav , Azimkhanov Almas
Published: August 2023

In 2022, the physical start-up stage of the IVG.1M research reactor was successfully completed, initiated by reducing the fuel enrichment of 235U. This phase included the loading of nuclear fuel into the reactor core and conducting experiments to determine the neutron-physical characteristics of the reactor. Prior to the physical start-up, preliminary calculations were performed using the computational code MCNP6 and a full-scale model of the IVG.1M reactor with low-enriched uranium fuel (LEU). During the start-up series, the reactivity worth curves of the reactor control and protection system’s operating and compensating elements were determined. Additionally, experiments were performed to measure the reactivity effects of technological channel draining and to obtain activation reaction rates in the central experimental channel using nickel and gold activation indicators. The results of determining the neutron-physical characteristics of the IVG.1M reactor have confirmed the operability of the reactor core with LEU fuel.
Determination of Heat Transfer Correlations for Fluids Flowing through Plate Heat Exchangers Needed for Online Monitoring of District Heat Exchanger Fouling
Authors: Romanowicz Tomasz , Taler Jan , Jaremkiewicz Magdalena , Sobota Tomasz
Published: August 2023

This article deals with the problem of estimating the degree of fouling of plate heat exchangers (PHEs) used in district heating substations (where the working medium is water). A method for calculating the thermal resistance of fouling is proposed based on a comparison of the thermal resistance of a fouled and clean heat exchanger. The thermal resistance of the heat exchanger for both fouled and clean apparatuses is determined as the inverse of their overall heat transfer coefficient. In the method, the heat transfer coefficients necessary to determine the overall heat transfer coefficient of the clean exchanger are calculated using a modified Wilson method. Moreover, the heat transfer coefficients on the clean heat exchanger plates’ cold water side are determined based on experimental tests. The computational algorithm presented in this paper will make it possible to develop software to monitor and thus optimise the operation of district heating substations.
Design of Energy Communities and Data-Sharing: Format and Open Data
Authors: Guerrazzi Emanuele , Thomopulos Dimitri , Fioriti Davide , Mariuzzo Ivan , Schito Eva , Poli Davide , Raugi Marco
Published: August 2023

Governments are promoting energy community (EC) policies to encourage joint investment and the operation of shared energy assets by citizens, industries, and public authorities, with the aim of promoting economic, social, and environmental benefits. However, ECs require appropriate planning and energy management strategies, which require data that are rarely clean and well-structured. Data providers rarely adhere to a common format for data sharing, which hinders the development of ECs. As the number of ECs is expected to grow significantly, this poses significant issues for stakeholders to quickly and efficiently develop projects. To address this issue, in this paper we propose a literature-based analysis and classification to derive the major data needs for EC planning, as well as a template format for data sharing. Our literature review on ECs successfully identifies the main data required to properly describe this system and its components. Their classification further clarifies that data structures shall account for tabular-like data of various types and flexible dimentionality, or cardinality. A public release of an open dataset for a case study in Pisa, Italy is also provided, supported by realistic or real data for testing the sizing and operation of ECs. The results suggest that data standard practices are needed, and this paper can lay the foundation for their standardization for ECs to fast-forward their deployment as support policy and technical decision-making.
Emerging Information Technologies for the Energy Management of Onboard Microgrids in Transportation Applications
Authors: Huang Zhen , Xiao Xuechun , Gao Yuan , Xia Yonghong , Dragičević Tomislav , Wheeler Pat
Published: August 2023

The global objective of achieving net-zero emissions drives a significant electrified trend by replacing fuel-mechanical systems with onboard microgrid (OBMG) systems for transportation applications. Energy management strategies (EMS) for OBMG systems require complicated optimization algorithms and high computation capabilities, while traditional control techniques may not meet these requirements. Driven by the ability to achieve intelligent decision-making by exploring data, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital twins (DT) have gained much interest within the transportation sector. Currently, research on EMS for OBMGs primarily focuses on AI technology, while overlooking the DT. This article provides a comprehensive overview of both information technology, particularly elucidating the role of DT technology. The evaluation and analysis of those emerging information technologies are explicitly summarized. Moreover, this article explores potential challenges in the implementation of AI and DT technologies and subsequently offers insights into future trends.
Techno-Economic Feasibility of Biomass Gasification for the Decarbonisation of Energy-Intensive Industries
Authors: Guerrero Jaime , Sala Simón , Fresneda-Cruz Alejandro , Bolea Irene , Carmona-Martínez Alessandro A. , Jarauta-Córdoba Clara
Published: August 2023

The current climatic and geopolitical situation leads to strong decarbonisation policies in several industries worldwide. Moreover, the European Union is pushing intensive industries to achieve a 55% reduction in CO2 emissions towards 2030. Among them, the steel manufacturing sector is at the lead of alternative projects that can help achieve this ambitious target. Co-production of syngas and biochar is one potential solution for this sector. Herein, a techno-economic analysis is provided to evaluate the economic feasibility and the effect of the most influential parameters for a successful deployment. A bibliographic review has been carried out to establish a clear baseline for such an analysis in terms of investment costs at several scales for gasification projects. Additionally, the cost evolution for coke, natural gas, and CO2 emission credits on the profitability of these projects are given. The case scenario processing 20,000 tbiomass/y is the most feasible solution, with a payback of around three years and a net present value (NPV) of around 15 million EUR, showing that biomass gasification can be an up-and-coming alternative in the mid-term.
A Pragmatic Framework for Data-Driven Decision-Making Process in the Energy Sector: Insights from a Wind Farm Case Study
Authors: Konstas Konstantinos , Chountalas Panos T. , Didaskalou Eleni A. , Georgakellos Dimitrios A.
Published: August 2023

In an era of big data, organizations increasingly aim to adopt data-driven decision-making processes to enhance their performance. This paper investigates the data-driven decision-making process by developing a framework tailored for application in the energy sector. The proposed framework integrates interdisciplinary approaches to comprehensively address the “data, information, knowledge” triad, applying it to both operational and maintenance decision-making. Designed to be managerially focused rather than technically oriented, the framework aims to engage all employees, including those without technical backgrounds, enabling them to effectively contribute to the decision-making process from their respective roles. To demonstrate the practical application of the proposed framework, this paper presents a case study of an energy organization managing a wind farm project, which implemented the framework to improve its decision-making process. The case study examines how the organization identified its objectives and information needs, formulated key performance questions for each stakeholder, explicitly defined and measured the key performance indicators, employed data collection and organization methods, managed the progression from data to information to knowledge, and transformed the acquired knowledge into informed decisions. By adopting this pragmatic framework, energy organizations are anticipated to solve problems, predict trends, and discover new opportunities, thereby enhancing their efficiency and predictability.
Techno-Economic Analysis of Alternative PV Orientations in Poland by Rescaling Real PV Profiles
Authors: Łowczowski Krzysztof , Roman Jacek
Published: August 2023

This paper presents factors affecting the effectiveness of photovoltaic (PV) plants and issues occurring in the distribution system network due to the high penetration of conventionally designed PV plants. Factors analyzed in this paper are shading, distance between panels, location of PV plants, European grid code requirements, and network constraints. Their impacts on the effectiveness of the PV power plant are presented one by one. Furthermore, the 1-year power profile of a real PV plant is rescaled to different orientations, and the energy effectiveness of different variants is compared. Finally, the economic aspects are considered by multiplying the energy produced by the energy prices. At the end, final conclusions are given and further research is outlined.
Progress in Research on Net-Zero-Carbon Cities: A Literature Review and Knowledge Framework
Authors: Duan Ziyu , Kim Seiyong
Published: August 2023

Through quantitative and qualitative analysis, this report conducts a thorough evaluation of the literature on the present progress in research on and the performance of net-zero-carbon cities (NZCCs). The quantitative analysis identifies ten major areas at this stage, and this analysis is followed by a systematic review of the dynamics and cutting-edge issues of research in the hot literature in this area. The systematic review reveals that the key points of NZCC transformation at this stage are research on zero-carbon buildings, urban paradigms, policies, economics, and renewable energy. Finally, based on the results of the previous analysis, to build the theoretical framework of NZCCs and combined with the sustainable development goals, future research directions are proposed, such as urban infrastructure transformation and low-carbon transportation, policy support and system reform, and digital transformation as well as coupling and balancing the relationships of various elements. In addition, cities need to develop evaluation indicators based on specific developments, and policy adaptability and flexibility are crucial for promoting cities’ efforts to achieve zero emissions. The current study provides targeted theoretical references and assistance for future policymakers and researchers, as well as advances and trends in the field of net zero carbon and associated research material from an urban viewpoint.
Advances in the Co-Simulation of Detailed Electrical and Whole-Building Energy Performance
Authors: Frank Stephen , Ball Brian , Gerber Daniel L. , Cu Khanh , Othee Avpreet , Shackelford Jordan , Ghatpande Omkar , Brown Richard , Cale James
Published: August 2023

This article describes recent co-simulation advances for the simultaneous modeling of detailed building electrical distribution systems and whole-building energy performance. The co-simulation architecture combines the EnergyPlus® engine for whole-building energy modeling with a new Modelica library for building an electrical distribution system model that is based on harmonic power flow. This new library allows for a higher-fidelity modeling of electrical power flows and losses within buildings than is available with current building electrical modeling software. We demonstrate the feasibility of the architecture by modeling a simple, two-zone thermal chamber with internal power electronics converters and resistive loads, and we validate the model using experimental data. The proposed co-simulation capability significantly expands the capabilities of building electrical distribution system models in the context of whole-building energy modeling, thus enabling more complex analyses than would have been possible with individual building performance simulation tools that are used to date.
Advancing a New Generation of Sustainability-Based Assessments for Electrical Energy Systems: Ontario as an Illustrative Application—A Review
Authors: Aguilar F. Ignacio , Gibson Robert B.
Published: August 2023

Negative social and ecological trends are putting essential life-support systems at risk. Necessary responses include sustainability transformations in diverse sectors to enhance the planetary capacity to deliver more positive effects to all. Sustainability-based assessment frameworks are tools to guide the evaluation of initiatives in different human sectors and promote decisions that enhance overall social and ecological well-being. However, advancing sustainability remains difficult, in part because it must be pursued in a world of complex interactions and must respect the specifics of each case and context. This paper reports the process of building a sustainability-based assessment framework for electrical energy systems carried out by Aguilar. This work further specified the framework for electrical energy systems for application in the case and context of the electrical energy system in the Canadian province of Ontario. The illustrative application revealed that Ontario’s electrical energy system has made some progress towards contributions to sustainability but requires improved efforts to be on a path to adequate transformation. The research found that the sustainability-based assessment framework for electrical energy systems is promising and well-suited for further application to particular electricity-related initiatives. However, more applications are needed to further test the utility of the framework and refine the proposed criteria.
Estimation of Above-Ground Biomass for Pinus densata Using Multi-Source Time Series in Shangri-La Considering Seasonal Effects
Authors: Chen Chaoqing , He Yunrun , Zhang Jialong , Xu Dongfan , Han Dongyang , Liao Yi , Luo Libin , Teng Chenkai , Yin Tangyan
Published: August 2023

Forest above-ground biomass (AGB) is the basis of terrestrial carbon storage estimation, and making full use of the seasonal characteristics of remote sensing imagery can improve the estimation accuracy. In this study, we used multi-source time series and sample plots with the Random Forest (RF) model to estimate the AGB. The sources included Sentinel-1 (S-1), Sentinel-2 (S-2), and the S-1 and S-2 combination (S-1S-2). Time series included single season, annual, and multi-season. This study aims to (1) explore the optimal image acquisition season to estimate AGB; (2) determine whether the ability to estimate the AGB of multi-seasonal imagery exceeded that of annual and single-season imagery; (3) discover the sensitivity of different data to AGB according to phenological conditions. The results showed that: (1) images acquired in autumn were more useful for AGB estimation than spring, summer, and winter; (2) the S-1 multi-seasonal AGB model had higher accuracy than the annual or single-season one; (3) in autumn and spring, S-1 had higher estimation accuracy than S-2, and in autumn and spring, estimation accuracy from S-1S-2 was higher than that from S-1 and S-2; (4) in 16 AGB estimation models, the best estimation accuracy was achieved by the autumn AGB model from S-1S-2 (R2 = 0.90, RMSE = 16.26 t/ha, p = 0.82, and rRMSE = 18.97). This study could be useful to identify the optimal image acquisition season for AGB estimation, thus reducing the economic cost of image acquisition and improving the estimation accuracy.
A General Framework for Neutrality Tests Based on the Site Frequency Spectrum
Authors: Ramos-Onsins Sebastián E. , Marmorini Giacomo , Achaz Guillaume , Ferretti Luca
Published: August 2023

One of the main necessities for population geneticists is the availability of sensitive statistical tools that enable to accept or reject the standard Wright–Fisher model of neutral evolution. A number of statistical tests have been developed to detect specific deviations from the null frequency spectrum in different directions (e.g., Tajima’s D, Fu and Li’s F and D tests, Fay and Wu’s H). A general framework exists to generate all neutrality tests that are linear functions of the frequency spectrum. In this framework, it is possible to develop a family of optimal tests with almost maximum power against a specific alternative evolutionary scenario. In this paper we provide a thorough discussion of the structure and properties of linear and nonlinear neutrality tests. First, we present the general framework for linear tests and emphasise the importance of the property of scalability with the sample size (that is, the interpretation of the tests should not depend on the sample size), which, if missing, can lead to errors in interpreting the data. After summarising the motivation and structure of linear optimal tests, we present a more general framework for the optimisation of linear tests, leading to a new family of tunable neutrality tests. In a further generalisation, we extend the framework to nonlinear neutrality tests and we derive nonlinear optimal tests for polynomials of any degree in the frequency spectrum.
Antioxidant Behavioural Phenotype in the Immp2l Gene Knock-Out Mouse
Authors: Lawther Adam J. , Zieba Jerzy , Fang Zhiming , Furlong Teri M. , Conn Illya , Govindaraju Hemna , Choong Laura L. Y. , Turner Nigel , Siddiqui Khawar Sohail , Bridge Wallace , Merlin Sam , Hyams Tzipi Cohen , Killingsworth Murray , Eapen Valsamma , Clarke Raymond A. , Walker Adam K.
Published: August 2023

Mitochondrial dysfunction is strongly associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the Inner mitochondrial membrane protein 2-like (IMMP2L) gene is linked to autism inheritance. However, the biological basis of this linkage is unknown notwithstanding independent reports of oxidative stress in association with both IMMP2L and ASD. To better understand IMMP2L’s association with behaviour, we developed the Immp2lKD knockout (KO) mouse model which is devoid of Immp2l peptidase activity. Immp2lKD −/− KO mice do not display any of the core behavioural symptoms of ASD, albeit homozygous Immp2lKD −/− KO mice do display increased auditory stimulus-driven instrumental behaviour and increased amphetamine-induced locomotion. Due to reports of increased ROS and oxidative stress phenotypes in an earlier truncated Immp2l mouse model resulting from an intragenic deletion within Immp2l, we tested whether high doses of the synthetic mitochondrial targeted antioxidant (MitoQ) could reverse or moderate the behavioural changes in Immp2lKD −/− KO mice. To our surprise, we observed that ROS levels were not increased but significantly lowered in our new Immp2lKD −/− KO mice and that these mice had no oxidative stress-associated phenotypes and were fully fertile with no age-related ataxia or neurodegeneration as ascertained using electron microscopy. Furthermore, the antioxidant MitoQ had no effect on the increased amphetamine-induced locomotion of these mice. Together, these findings indicate that the behavioural changes in Immp2lKD −/− KO mice are associated with an antioxidant-like phenotype with lowered and not increased levels of ROS and no oxidative stress-related phenotypes. This suggested that treatments with antioxidants are unlikely to be effective in treating behaviours directly resulting from the loss of Immp2l/IMMP2L activity, while any behavioural deficits that maybe associated with IMMP2L intragenic deletion-associated truncations have yet to be determined.