bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular Therapy for Lung Cancer: Focusing on Chimeric Antigen Receptor T (CAR T) Cells and Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocyte (TIL) Therapy
Authors: Katiyar Vatsala , Chesney Jason , Kloecker Goetz
Published: July 2023

Lung cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States and worldwide. The introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors has led to a marked improvement in the outcomes of lung cancer patients. Despite these advances, there is a huge unmet need for therapeutic options in patients who are not candidates for targeted or immunotherapy or those who progress after first-line treatment. With its high mutational burden, lung cancer appears to be an attractive target for novel personalized treatment approaches. In this review, we provide an overview of two adoptive cell therapy approaches–chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) T-cell therapy and Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in lung cancer with an emphasis on current challenges and future perspectives. While both these therapies are still in the early phases of development in lung cancer and need more refinement, they harbor the potential to be effective treatment options for this group of patients with otherwise poor prognoses.
The Role of Lymphadenectomy in Early-Stage NSCLC
Authors: Manfredini Beatrice , Zirafa Carmelina Cristina , Filosso Pier Luigi , Stefani Alessandro , Romano Gaetano , Davini Federico , Melfi Franca
Published: July 2023

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The involvement of lymph nodes by the tumor has a strong impact on survival of patients. For this reason, lymphadenectomy plays a crucial role in the staging and prognosis of NSCLC, to define the most appropriate therapeutic strategies concerning the stage of the disease. To date, the benefit, in terms of survival, of the different extents of lymphadenectomy remains controversial in the scientific community. It is recognized that metastatic involvement of mediastinal lymph nodes in lung cancer is one of the most significant prognostic factors, in terms of survival, and it is therefore mandatory to identify patients with lymph node metastases who may benefit from adjuvant therapies, to prevent distant disease and local recurrences. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the role of lymphadenectomy in early-stage NSCLC in terms of efficacy and accuracy, comparing systematic, sampling, and lobe-specific lymph node dissection and analyzing the existing critical issue, through a search of the most relevant articles published in the last decades.
Applied Molecular-Based Quality Control of Biobanked Samples for Multi-Omics Approach
Authors: Michalska-Falkowska Anna , Niklinski Jacek , Juhl Hartmut , Sulewska Anetta , Kisluk Joanna , Charkiewicz Radoslaw , Ciborowski Michal , Ramlau Rodryg , Gryczka Robert , Piwkowski Cezary , Kozlowski Miroslaw , Miskiewicz Borys , Biecek Przemyslaw , Wnorowska Karolina , Dzieciol-Anikiej Zofia , Sargsyan Karine , Naumnik Wojciech , Mroz Robert , Reszec-Gielazyn Joanna
Published: July 2023

Biobanks are vital for high-throughput translational research, but the rapid development of novel molecular techniques, especially in omics assays, poses challenges to traditional practices and recommendations. In our study, we used biospecimens from oncological patients in Polish clinics and collaborated with the Indivumed Group. For serum/plasma samples, we monitored hemolysis, controlled RNA extraction, assessed cDNA library quality and quantity, and verified NGS raw data. Tissue samples underwent pathologic evaluation to confirm histology and determine tumor content. Molecular quality control measures included evaluating the RNA integrity number, assessing cDNA library quality and quantity, and analyzing NGS raw data. Our study yielded the creation of distinct workflows for conducting preanalytical quality control of serum/plasma and fresh-frozen tissue samples. These workflows offer customization options to suit the capabilities of different biobanking entities. In order to ensure the appropriateness of biospecimens for advanced research applications, we introduced molecular-based quality control methods that align with the demands of high-throughput assays. The novelty of proposed workflows, rooted in innovative molecular techniques, lies in the integration of these QC methods into a comprehensive schema specifically designed for high-throughput research applications.
Recent Advances in Photoelectrochemical Sensors for Analysis of Toxins and Abused Drugs in the Environment
Authors: Mao Yan , Liu Xiaoxin , Bao Yu , Niu Li
Published: July 2023

Toxic pollutants in the environment, such as toxins and abused drugs, have posed a major threat to human health and ecosystem security. It is extremely desirable to develop simple, low-cost, sensitive, and reliable techniques for the detection of these pollutants in the environment. As a booming analytical method, photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensors possess low background noise and high sensitivity. The performances of PEC sensors are fundamentally related to the photoelectric conversion efficiency, which mainly depends on the properties of photoactive materials. This review aims to summarize the engineered photoactive materials, i.e., semiconductors and semiconductor-based heterojunctions, as well as their actual applications, with emphasis on sensing mechanisms in PEC sensors for the analysis of toxins and abused drugs in the environment. Finally, the future research perspectives in this field are also discussed.
Occupational Therapy Intervention in the Child with Leukodystrophy: Case Report
Authors: Simeon Rachele , Berardi Anna , Valente Donatella , Volpi Tiziana , Vagni Samuele , Galeoto Giovanni
Published: July 2023

Background: There are many different types of Leukodystrophies. Specifically, children with hypomyelination and congenital cataract syndrome (HCC) in addition to motor retardation development, hypotonia and progressive spastic paraplegia, associated with cerebellar ataxia and peripheral neuropathy, have early bilateral cataracts and intellectual disability as pathognomonic symptoms. HCC rehabilitation treatment is not well defined, but a significant amount of evidence in the literature has demonstrated the effectiveness of occupational therapy (OT) treatment in children with similar symptomatology. For this reason, the aim of this study was to describe the improvement in the autonomies and social participation of a child with HCC following OT treatment. Methods: A.E. was a 9-year-old child with HCC with severe intellectual disability. OT intervention lasted 3 months biweekly and each session lasted 45 min. Each session was divided into two parts: The first part aimed to increase the child’s active involvement through activities; the second part involved training in Activities of Daily living (ADL). The outcome measures were: ABILHAND-Kids; Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory; Comprehensive OT Evaluation Scale; ADL and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living. Results: A.E.’s outcome measure reported an improvement from an autonomy standpoint and in the child’s general activity participation; there was also an increase in A.E.’s interpersonal skills. Conclusion: OT treatment improved A.E.’s autonomy.
Early Gut Microbiota Profile in Healthy Neonates: Microbiome Analysis of the First-Pass Meconium Using Next-Generation Sequencing Technology
Authors: Chang Yi-Sheng , Li Chang-Wei , Chen Ling , Wang Xing-An , Lee Maw-Sheng , Chao Yu-Hua
Published: July 2023

Gut microbiome development during early life has significant long-term effects on health later in life. The first-pass meconium is not sterile, and it is important to know the initial founder of the subsequent gut microbiome. However, there is limited data on the microbiota profile of the first-pass meconium in healthy neonates. To determine the early gut microbiota profile, we analyzed 39 samples of the first-pass meconium from healthy neonates using 16S rRNA sequencing. Our results showed a similar profile of the microbiota composition in the first-pass meconium samples. Pseudomonas was the most abundant genus in most samples. The evenness of the microbial communities in the first-pass meconium was extremely poor, and the average Shannon diversity index was 1.31. An analysis of the relationship between perinatal characteristics and the meconium microbiome revealed that primigravidae babies had a significantly higher Shannon diversity index (p = 0.041), and the Bacteroidales order was a biomarker for the first-pass meconium of these neonates. The Shannon diversity index was not affected by the mode of delivery, maternal intrapartum antibiotic treatment, prolonged rupture of membranes, or birth weight. Our study extends previous research with further characterization of the gut microbiome in very early life.
Assessment of Diet Quality in Children and Adolescents with Overweight or Obesity in Greece
Authors: Androutsos Odysseas , Tsiampalis Thomas , Kouvari Matina , Manou Maria , Dimopoulou Maria , Georgiou Alexandra , Kosti Rena , Charmandari Evangelia
Published: July 2023

The adoption of healthy nutritional habits constitutes one of the most important determinants of healthy growth and development in childhood. Few studies in Greece have examined children’s diet quality using diet indices. The present study aimed to assess the diet quality of a large cohort of children and adolescents with overweight or obesity. Study participants (n = 1335), aged 2–18, were recruited through the Out-patient Clinic for the Prevention and Management of Overweight and Obesity in Childhood and Adolescence, Aghia Sophia Children’s Hospital, Athens, Greece. Anthropometric, socio-demographic, and behavioral data were collected using standard methods and equipment. The Diet Quality Index (DQI), which includes four subcomponents (i.e., dietary diversity, dietary quality, dietary equilibrium, and meal index), was calculated to assess each subject’s diet quality. According to the results of this study, children’s total DQI score was 63.1%. It was observed that 66.7% of the children had at least moderate diet quality (total DQI ≥ 59.34%). Boys had higher values of the total DQI and certain components of the DQI (i.e., dietary equilibrium score and meal index) compared to girls. Three out of ten children with overweight/obesity had poor diet quality (i.e., DQI ≤ 59.33). Younger children (2–5 years old) were found to have the lowest values of dietary equilibrium compared to older children (6–9 and 12–18 years old). Moreover, boys had higher values of the total DQI score and of specific components of this index (i.e., dietary equilibrium and meal index) compared to girls. Children living in urban areas had higher values in the dietary quality score compared to those living in rural areas. Children with overweight had higher values of the dietary quality score and the total DQI score compared to children with obesity. The present study highlighted that children and adolescents with overweight or obesity have poor diet quality. Multilevel and higher intensity interventions should be designed specifically for this group to achieve tangible outcomes.
Pediatric Cervicofacial Necrotizing Fasciitis—A Challenge for a Medical Team
Authors: Coșarcă Adina Simona , Száva Dániel , Bögözi Bálint , Iacob Alina , Frățilă Anca , Sergiu Guzun
Published: July 2023

Cervical necrotizing fasciitis is a very rare complication of a bacterial infection that can have a dental cause. This type of infection typically affects fascial plane, which has a poor blood supply and can affect soft tissue and cervical fascia and can spread quickly causing infection of mediastinum. Initially, in the first stage, the overlying tissues are unaffected, and this can delay diagnosis and surgical intervention. Incidence in children is extremely rare and can be frequently associated with various other general pathologies that decrease the immune system response. We present a case of a young 12-year-old boy diagnosed with this type of infection in the head and neck as a complication of a second inferior molar pericoronitis. The treatment and the management of the case was difficult not only due to the presence of the infection but also because of the prolonged intubation.
Depression Disorders in Mexican Adolescents: A Predictive Model
Authors: Gómez-Peresmitré Gilda , Platas-Acevedo Romana Silvia
Published: July 2023

Depression is a type of mood disorder that can impact individuals of any age. A variety of factors, including biological, psychological, and environmental factors, can contribute to the likelihood of developing depression. If the environment in which a person exists does not support its occurrence, the disorder may not manifest. The current research follows a retrospective, correlational approach, utilizing a non-probability sample of 557 high school students from public schools in Mexico City. This sample includes 181 males and 376 females, aged between 15 and 18 years, with an average age of 15.66 and a standard deviation of 0.68. The main objective of this research is to identify the variables that serve as risk factors for the development of depressive disorders in Mexican adolescents in high school. The data show that 78% of the adolescents in the total sample were at risk of depression, which is consistent with what has been reported by other researchers. The regression model shows that alcohol and drug consumption is associated with and influences the emergence and presence of depressive symptomatology and major depressive disorder. Adolescents with different sexual orientations than heterosexuals are twice as likely to suffer depression and emotional dysregulation. It was confirmed that the developmental stage and adolescence contributes as a context that favors the evolution of such a symptomatology.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Developmental Age: 22-Item Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire for an Observational Descriptive Investigation
Authors: Cremonini Francesca , Zucchini Ludovica , Pellitteri Federica , Palone Mario , Lombardo Luca
Published: July 2023

The aim of this paper is to perform an observational descriptive study of the Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) in a population of children by evaluating the prevalence and role of sex and age variables. The 22-item Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) was administered to parents of children aged 3 to 12 years. The questionnaire is a very simple tool since it allows for the indication of patients with possible OSAS diagnosis through a cut-off of 0.33. The anonymous diagnostic questionnaire, available in digital format, was administered to the population under study by a link or QR code. Only the questionnaires completed in all their parts were recorded and analyzed. Eight hundred and thirty-two questionnaires were collected. One hundred and fifty-four subjects obtained a PSQ score > 0.33 and the prevalence of OSAS was 18.51%. The Chi-square test showed a statistically significant association between the PSQ score > 0.33 and male sex. The higher prevalence of subjects with a value of PSQ > 0.33 (n = 277) are aged 3–4–5 years, followed by the 6–7–8 range in the group with PSQ score > 0.33, p < 0.05. The prevalence of OSAS was 18.51% in children aged 3 to 12 years. The variables male biological sex and the age group 3–8 year were statistically significant for subjects with OSAS diagnosis. This study underlines the use of the 22-item Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire as a first screening tool to identify children at risk of OSAS.
Nutritional Value of Meals Designed for a School-Based Food Aid Program and Comparison with Similar Commercial Products: An Example of Good Practice from the DIATROFI Program
Authors: Kouvari Matina , Diamantis Dimitrios V. , Katsas Konstantinos , Radaios Vasiliki , Veloudaki Afroditi , Linos Athena
Published: July 2023

Providing meals of high nutritional value should be the principal objective of large-scale school-based food aid programs. This study aimed at highlighting the nutritional value of meals distributed in the school-based food assistance DIATROFI Program by comparing them to their commercially available counterparts. For the purpose of this study, n = 13 DIATROFI meals and n = 50 commercial products from the 2016–2017 school year, and n = 12 DIATROFI meals and n = 40 commercial products from the 2022–2023 school year were selected. The protein, carbohydrate, total sugar, dietary fiber, total fat, sodium/salt content, and fatty acid methyl ester profile of DIATROFI meals were estimated through recipe simulation and national/international food databases, and verified through laboratory analyses while the relevant information was extracted from the label for commercial products. As verified by laboratory analyses and in comparison with food labels, most DIATROFI meals had lower total fat, saturated fatty acid, and sugar content, and most had higher dietary fiber content during both years. Many recipes’ nutrient profiles also improved over time. DIATROFI meals present significant advantages over available commercial products. Such tailored-made school meals can prove to be advantageous in terms of nutrition profile compared to commercially available, which have yet to be impacted by food reformulation.
Psychological Well-Being and Mental Health in Youth: Technical Adequacy of the Comprehensive Inventory of Thriving
Authors: Arslan Gökmen
Published: July 2023

Well-being is a crucial construct in young people’s lives that directly affects their overall quality of life, academic performance, and social relationships. Although there is an emphasis on the significance of positive psychological states in mental health, few have focused on positive states, and psychological well-being is often conceptualized using negative indicators of mental health. The present study aims to fill the gap in the literature by testing the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Comprehensive Inventory of Thriving for Youth (CIT-Y) and exploring the relationship between psychological well-being and mental health problems among Turkish young people. The study involved 459 youths from a state elementary school in a city in Türkiye, with 48.8% (224 females and 235 males) of them being female and aged between 11 and 15 years (M = 12.85, SD = 0.73). Findings from the study suggest that the CIT-Y is a reliable and valid measure for assessing psychological well-being in Turkish young people. Additionally, the results show that young people with internalizing and externalizing problems report fewer positive psychological states compared to those without such problems. This emphasizes the significance of well-being domains, including loneliness and respect, in comprehending mental health issues among young people. These findings can aid mental health providers in designing interventions to enhance the psychosocial adjustment of students by providing resources to cultivate mental health and well-being.
The Emerging Role of Senotherapy in Cancer: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Malayaperumal Sarubala , Marotta Francesco , Kumar Makalakshmi Murali , Somasundaram Indumathi , Ayala Antonio , Pinto Mario Munoz , Banerjee Antara , Pathak Surajit
Published: July 2023

Senotherapy, a promising therapeutic strategy, has drawn a lot attention recently due to its potential for combating cancer. Senotherapy refers to the targeting of senescent cells to restore tissue homeostasis and mitigate the deleterious effects associated with senescence. Senolytic drugs represent a promising avenue in cancer treatment, with the potential to target and modulate senescent cells to improve patient outcomes. The review highlights the intricate interplay between the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and the tumor microenvironment, emphasizing the role of senescent cells in promoting chronic inflammation, immune evasion, and tumor-cell proliferation. It then explores the potential of senotherapy as a novel strategy for cancer therapy. This review addresses the emerging evidence on the combination of senotherapy with conventional cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Combustion Synthesis of MAX Phases: Microstructure and Properties Inherited from the Processing Pathway
Authors: Aydinyan Sofiya
Published: July 2023

The MAX phases exhibit outstanding combination of strength and ductility which are unique features of both metals and ceramics. The preparation of pure MAX phases has been challenging due to the thermodynamic auspiciousness of intermetallic formation in the ternary systems. This review demonstrates the power of the self-propagating, high-temperature synthesis method, delivers the main findings of the combustion synthesis optimization of the MAX phases, and reveals the influence of the combustion wave on the microstructure features thereof. The possibility of using elements and binary compounds as precursors, oxidizers, and diluents to control the exothermicity was comparatively analyzed from the point of view of the final composition and microstructure in the following systems: Ti-Al-C, Ti-V-Al-C, Cr-V-Al-C, Ti-Cr-Al-C, Ti-Nb-Al-C, Ti-Al-Si-C, Ti-Al-Sn-C, Ti-Al-N, Ti-Al-C-N, Ti-Al-B, Ti-Si-B, Ti-Si-C, Nb-Al-C, Cr-Al-C, Cr-Mn-Al-C, V-Al-C, Cr-V-Al-C, Ta-Al-C, Zr-S-C, Cr-Ga-C, Zr-Al-C, and Mo-Al-C, respectively. The influence of sample preparation (including the processes of preheating, mechanical activation, and microwave heating, sample geometry, porosity, and cold pressing) accompanied with the heating and cooling rates and the ambient gas pressure on the combustion parameters was deduced. The combustion preparation of the MAX phases was then summarized in chronological order. Further improvements of the synthesis conditions, along with recommendations for the products quality and microstructure control were given. The comparison of the mechanical properties of the MAX phases prepared by different approaches was illustrated wherever relevant.
Echinoids and Crinoids from Terra Nova Bay (Ross Sea) Based on a Reverse Taxonomy Approach
Authors: Guzzi Alice , Alvaro Maria , Cecchetto Matteo , Schiaparelli Stefano
Published: July 2023

The identification of species present in an ecosystem and the assessment of a faunistic inventory is the first step in any ecological survey and conservation effort. Thanks to technological progress, DNA barcoding has sped up species identification and is a great support to morphological taxonomy. In this work, we used a “Reverse Taxonomy” approach, where molecular (DNA barcoding) analyses were followed by morphological (skeletal features) ones to determine the specific status of 70 echinoid and 22 crinoid specimens, collected during eight different expeditions in the Ross and Weddell Seas. Of a total of 13 species of sea urchins, 6 were from the Terra Nova Bay area (TNB, Ross Sea) and 4 crinoids were identified. Previous scientific literature reported only four species of sea urchins from TNB to which we added the first records of Abatus cordatus (Verrill, 1876), Abatus curvidens Mortensen, 1936 and Abatus ingens Koehler, 1926. Moreover, we found a previous misidentification of Abatus koehleri (Thiéry, 1909), erroneously reported as A. elongatus in a scientific publication for the area. All the crinoid records are new for the area as there was no previous faunistic inventory available for TNB.
A Phytogeographical Classification and Survey of the Indigenous Browse Flora of South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini
Authors: Trytsman Marike , Müller Francuois L. , Samuels M. Igshaan , Cupido Clement F. , van Wyk Abraham E.
Published: July 2023

Rangelands in South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini contain a rich diversity of valuable fodder trees and shrubs. This research is the first attempt to document the regional diversity and distribution of these browse resources. Scientific publications, textbooks, databases, and published reports were accessed to compile a database of plant species that were recorded as utilised by ruminants and non-ruminants. Relevant forage attributes, such as functional traits as well as utilisation traits, were added to each species record. Thereafter, distribution records were extracted from the South African National Biodiversity Institute’s Botanical Database of South Africa and analysed with numerical techniques to establish phytogeographical patterns. A total of 613 plant species from 76 families have been recorded, which formed seven distinct phytochoria, termed the Central Arid, Eastern Subtropical, Highland Temperate, Moist Temperate, Northern Subtropical, Southern Temperate, and Western Arid browse-choria. Key families and species, as well as functional and utilisation traits, are discussed, focusing on key species present in the browse-choria. This browse database, together with the earlier compiled Leguminosae and Poaceae databases, will be used to prioritise indigenous southern African plant species/infraspecific taxa to be collected for the conservation of genetic resources and future evaluations for potential development as forage crops.
Ethnobotanical Survey on Plants Used to Manage Febrile Illnesses among Herbalists in Casablanca, Morocco
Authors: Dagni Amal , Suharoschi Ramona , Hegheș Simona-Codruta , Vârban Rodica , Lelia Pop Oana , Vulturar Romana , Fodor Adriana , Cozma Angela , Soukri Abdelaziz , El Khalfi Bouchra
Published: July 2023

Plants have been recognized since antiquity in Morocco as a heritage and a remedy for a variety of ailments with a diverse range of pharmacological effects. The current work is ethnomedicinal research conducted to collect herbalists’ knowledge about plants utilized in traditional medicine to treat febrile illnesses. In Casablanca, Morocco, 105 herbalists provided information. The data were examined using seven quantitative indices: The Fidelity Level (FL), Use Value (UV), Frequency of Citation (FC), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF). During the current investigation, twenty-two different species of medicinal plants from eleven families have been reported as being used to treat fevers. The most recommended plant with a high Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC = 0.15) is Dysphania ambrosioides L., which indicates the importance of this species in controlling fever, especially when it is combined with Citrus × limon (L.) Osbeck (RFC = 0.139). Hence, the use of these plants was compared to the literature review. This research contributed to documenting and preserving important Moroccan traditional herbalists’ knowledge about plants used to cure febrile illnesses.
Spectrophotometric Analysis of Coronal Discoloration In Vitro Induced by Bioceramic Cements
Authors: Carvalho Joana A. , Franco Carlos , Proença Luís , Neves João Albernaz , Polido Mário , Mendes José João , Azul Ana Mano
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate and quantify, in vitro, the extent of coronal discoloration induced by bioceramic materials over time. In total, 44 human monoradicular teeth were divided into four groups (n = 11), according to the applied material: Negative control (NC); White MTA ProRoot® (WMTAP); Biodentine™ (BD); and TotalFill® BC RRM™ Putty (TF). Teeth were immersed in saline solution and incubated at 37 °C; the following periods of time were defined: before incubation: [t0]—without bioceramic material, t1—immediately after the bioceramic material placement; after incubation: t24h—24 h, t7d—7 days, and 30d—30 days. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis were performed. Cochran’s Q test was used to evaluate coronal discoloration across the different groups, while the Kruskal–Wallis test was employed to determine differences in discoloration among the groups at each time interval. Additionally, the Friedman test was applied to analyze the variations in discoloration within each group over time. A significance level of 5% was set. All experimental groups revealed coronal discoloration over time: NC (p = 0.001), WMTAP (p < 0.001), BD (p = 0.001), and TF (p = 0.006). No significant differences were observed between groups for each time interval (p > 0.05). The WMTAP group varied the most considering the intervals [t0—t1] and [t24h—t7d] (p = 0.037) compared to the remaining experimental groups.
Degree-Based Graph Entropy in Structure–Property Modeling
Authors: Mondal Sourav , Das Kinkar Chandra
Published: July 2023

Graph entropy plays an essential role in interpreting the structural information and complexity measure of a network. Let G be a graph of order n. Suppose dG(vi) is degree of the vertex vi for each i=1,2,…,n. Now, the k-th degree-based graph entropy for G is defined as Id,k(G)=−∑i=1ndG(vi)k∑j=1ndG(vj)klogdG(vi)k∑j=1ndG(vj)k, where k is real number. The first-degree-based entropy is generated for k=1, which has been well nurtured in last few years. As ∑j=1ndG(vj)k yields the well-known graph invariant first Zagreb index, the Id,k for k=2 is worthy of investigation. We call this graph entropy as the second-degree-based entropy. The present work aims to investigate the role of Id,2 in structure property modeling of molecules.
Gas of Particles Obeying the Monotone Statistics
Authors: Fidaleo Francesco
Published: July 2023

The present note is devoted to the detailed investigation of a concrete model satisfying the block-monotone statistics introduced in a previous paper (joint, with collaborators) of the author. The model under consideration indeed describes the free gas of massless particles in a one-dimensional environment. This investigation can have consequences in two fundamental respects. The first one concerns the applicability of the (block-)monotone statistics to concrete physical models, yet completely unknown. Since the formula for the degeneracy of the energy-levels of the one-particle Hamiltonian of a free particle is very involved, the second aspect might be related to the, highly nontrivial, investigation of the expected thermodynamics of the free gas of particles obeying the block-monotone statistics in arbitrary spatial dimensions. A final section contains a comparison between the various (block, strict, and weak) monotone schemes with the Boltzmann statistics, which describes the gas of classical particles. It is seen that the block-monotone statistics, which takes into account the degeneracy of the energy-levels, seems the unique one having realistic physical applications.
A Comprehensive Review of Digital Twin Technology for Grid-Connected Microgrid Systems: State of the Art, Potential and Challenges Faced
Authors: Kumari Namita , Sharma Ankush , Tran Binh , Chilamkurti Naveen , Alahakoon Damminda
Published: July 2023

The concept of the digital twin has been adopted as an important aspect in digital transformation of power systems. Although the notion of the digital twin is not new, its adoption into the energy sector has been recent and has targeted increased operational efficiency. This paper is focused on addressing an important gap in the research literature reviewing the state of the art in utilization of digital twin technology in microgrids, an important component of power systems. A microgrid is a local power network that acts as a dependable island within bigger regional and national electricity networks, providing power without interruption even when the main grid is down. Microgrids are essential components of smart cities that are both resilient and sustainable, providing smart cities the opportunity to develop sustainable energy delivery systems. Due to the complexity of design, development and maintenance of a microgrid, an efficient simulation model with ability to handle the complexity and spatio-temporal nature is important. The digital twin technologies have the potential to address the above-mentioned requirements, providing an exact virtual model of the physical entity of the power system. The paper reviews the application of digital twins in a microgrid at electrical points where the microgrid connects or disconnects from the main distribution grid, that is, points of common coupling. Furthermore, potential applications of the digital twin in microgrids for better control, security and resilient operation and challenges faced are also discussed.
Effect of Temperature on Moisture Migration in Earth and Fiber Mixtures for Cob Materials
Authors: Taouirte Yousra , Tiffonnet Anne-Lise , Marion Michael , Louahlia Hasna , El Alami Mustapha , Gounni Ayoub , Lépinasse Eric , Voicu Ionut
Published: July 2023

This paper highlights the impact of environmental conditions on cob buildings. Different factors such as wall thickness, material permeability and interactions between moisture and heat fluxes can all have significant effects on the performance and durability of cob buildings. An experimental and modeling-based study was conducted on the hygrothermal characterization of cob building materials, which were obtained by mixing earth and fibers. Two types of cob materials that can be used as insulation and to form structural materials in buildings were tested. The effect of outside temperature on adsorption isotherms was investigated for both materials. The experimental data were fitted using the GAB model, after which a new correlation of water content correlation was proposed. Three specific configurations were investigated in which cob material was subjected to moisture transfer and a zero, positive or negative temperature gradient. Based on the resulting measurements, a high coupling effect between heat and moisture transfer inside the structural material was analyzed. A comparison of the experimental and modeling results demonstrated the satisfactory correlation and reliability of the developed model. Simulations were carried out for various wall thicknesses, in order to assess the effect of heat and moisture transfer on water content. The three scenarios were simulated and distributions of water content inside the walls were determined. The results show that the wall thickness of cob buildings and the direction of heat and moisture fluxes affect water content distribution in the structure. A greater thickness of the cob wall leads to higher water content, but this relationship reverses when the heat and moisture fluxes move in the same direction.
Do the Reduction of Traditional Energy Consumption and the Acceleration of the Energy Transition Bring Economic Benefits to South America?
Authors: Oliveira José Castro , Nogueira Manuel Carlos , Madaleno Mara
Published: July 2023

By considering a panel dataset between 1995 and 2019 including several countries in South America and methodologically using the fixed effect and GMM methods in first differences, the authors sought to empirically determine the relationship between traditional energy consumption, renewable energy consumption, and economic growth. The results show that the two main variables studied (fossil energy consumption and renewable energy consumption) are statistically significant and contribute to economic growth per capita in all nine South American countries studied. Furthermore, it should be noted that this significance persists in the four models discussed in this study, demonstrating a link between the positive economic impact of reducing traditional energy consumption and increasing renewable energy consumption in the South American countries studied. This article also contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the fundamental role of gross capital formation, labor force participation, and tertiary school enrollment in the economic growth of these countries. Two rather small effects on the aforementioned growth are the corruption perception index and domestic lending to the private sector by banks. This paper calls on policymakers to reconsider increasing energy production using renewable sources and to promote measures for its consumption.
Study on the Measurement Technique and Judgment Procedure of Ultrasonic Corona Imaging Equipment
Authors: Kang Ja-Yoon , Chae Dong-Ju , Mun Young-Chae , Park Ji-Man , Lee Bang-Wook
Published: July 2023

Corona discharge is a phenomenon wherein gas on the surface of electrical equipment is ionised. Severe ionisation can lead to insulation breakdown and cause equipment damage. Consequently, non-contact portable devices are employed to detect corona discharge in real time while the electrical equipment is pressurised. Recently, several devices capable of visualising corona discharge phenomena occurring in the ultrasonic region have been developed. However, these devices are primarily used for scanning purposes to verify the occurrence of partial discharge, as detailed guidelines for operating the equipment in real-world field conditions are yet to be established. Therefore, this study proposes a measurement technique for utilising ultrasonic corona imaging diagnostic equipment in the field. This technique involves the use of corona discharge electrodes and aged epoxy insulator samples. First, the performance of the ultrasonic corona imaging diagnostic equipment based on environmental conditions was evaluated by varying the distance, frequency, temperature, and humidity using the corona discharge electrodes. Then, parallel measurements were conducted with a high-frequency current transformer sensor on epoxy insulator samples subjected to simple ageing, cracking, and partial surface damage, and the results were analysed. Finally, an efficient measurement technique, including equipment operation procedures, was proposed by integrating the measurement results.
Experimental and Numerical Studies on a Single Coherent Blade of a Vertical Axis Carousel Wind Rotor
Authors: Augustyn Marcin , Lisowski Filip
Published: July 2023

This article presents the results of experimental and numerical studies on a single coherent rotor blade. The blade was designed for a vertical-axis wind turbine rotor with a self-adjusting system and planetary blade rotation. The experimental tests of the full-scale blade model were conducted in a wind tunnel. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis of the blade’s cross section was then carried out, including the boundary conditions corresponding to those adopted in the wind tunnel. The main objective of the study was to determine the aerodynamic forces and aerodynamic moment for the proposed single coherent cross-section of the blade for the carousel wind rotor. Based on the obtained results and under some additional assumptions, the driving torque of the wind rotor was determined. The obtained results indicated the possibility of using the proposed blade cross-section in the construction of a carousel wind rotor.
Demonstrative Application to an OECD/NEA Reactor Physics Benchmark of the 2nd-BERRU-PM Method—I: Nominal Computations Consistent with Measurements
Authors: Cacuci Dan G. , Fang Ruixian
Published: July 2023

This work illustrates the applications of the 2nd-BERRU-PM methodology to polyethylene-reflected plutonium (PERP) OECD/NEA reactor physics benchmark. Using concepts from information theory and thermodynamics, the 2nd-BERRU-PM (2nd-order best-estimate results with reduced uncertainties predictive modeling) methodology is constructed in the most inclusive “joint-phase-space of parameters, computed and measured responses”. Consequently, the 2nd-BERRU-PM methodology simultaneously calibrates responses and parameters, while simultaneously reducing the predicted standard deviations in these quantities. This uncertainty reduction is illustrated for the PERP benchmark, which is modeled using the neutron transport Boltzmann equation, the solution of which is representative of “large-scale computations”. The situations analyzed in this work pertain to values of the measured responses which are consistent with the computed response values, in that the standard deviations of the measured responses overlap with the standard deviations of the computed responses. The situations that can arise when the measured values appear to be inconsistent with the computed values will be analyzed in the accompanying Part II.
Fuel Consumption, Emissions of Air Pollutants and Opportunities for Reducing CO2 Emissions from Linear Sources in the Model Rural Municipality
Authors: Konieczna Anita , Roman Kamil , Rzodkiewicz Witold
Published: July 2023

The study estimates the amount of emissions resulting from linear sources. There were calculations for a model rural municipality, composed of national, provincial, country, and municipal roads that run through the area. In this study, the following categories of vehicles were assumed to travel along this route: motorcycles, passenger cars, light trucks (vans), heavy trucks without trailers, trucks with trailers, and buses. The analysis used data on the average volume of traffic (SDR) on selected roads on the territory of the sample municipality, based on the frequency of participation in traffic by each mode of transportation on selected road sections. To estimate the emission rates of each pollutant, for each vehicle category separately, the calculations were made based on the emission factor rates for each type of fuel. According to the adopted methodology and based on the adopted assumptions scenarios, pollutants’ emissions were estimated. The implementation of the scenarios offered for reducing CO2 emissions has been proposed, and it is estimated that, depending on the variant adopted, the reductions will be between 13 and 21% in variant I, between 3 and 8% in variant II, and between 18 and 34% in combining these variants. The variant with a reduction in private car transportation in favor of bicycle transportation in combination with public transportation showed the most favorable effects on the environment.
Studies on Water–Aluminum Scrap Reaction Kinetics in Two Steps and the Efficiency of Green Hydrogen Production
Authors: Mezulis Ansis , Richter Christiaan , Lesnicenoks Peteris , Knoks Ainars , Varnagiris Sarunas , Urbonavicius Marius , Milcius Darius , Kleperis Janis
Published: July 2023

This work aims to explain aluminum hydrolysis reaction kinetics based on a properly chosen theoretical model with machined aluminum waste chips as well as alkali solutions up to 1M as a promoter and to estimate the overall reaction profit. The purpose of this work is to assess the optimal alkali concentration in the production of small- and medium-scale green hydrogen. To obtain results with better accuracy, we worked with flat Al waste chips, because a flat surface is preferable to maximally increase the time for the created hydrogen bubbles to reach the critical gas pressure. Describing the reaction kinetics, a flat shape allows for the use of a planar one-dimensional shrinking core model instead of a much more complicated polydisperse spheric shrinking core model. We analyzed the surface chemical reaction and mass transfer rate steps to obtain the first-order rate constant for the surface reaction and the diffusion coefficient of the aqueous reactant in the byproduct layer, respectively. We noted that measurements of the diffusion coefficient in the byproduct layer performed and discussed in this paper are rare to find in publications at alkali concentrations below 1M. With our reactor, we achieved a H2 yield of 1145 mL per 1 g of Al with 1M NaOH, which is 92% of the theoretical maximum. In the estimation of profit, the authors’ novelty is in paying great attention to the loss in alkali and finding a crucial dependence on its price. Nevertheless, in terms of consumed and originated materials for sale, the conversion of aluminum waste material into green hydrogen with properly chosen reaction parameters has positive profit even when consuming an alkali of a chemical grade.
Study on the Variation Law of Reservoir Physical Properties in High Water Cut Stage
Authors: Yi Jiqing , Cui Chuanzhi , Wu Zhongwei , Jiang Mingjie , Ma Xiaoli
Published: July 2023

Difficulty in water injection during the water injection development (water injection production refers to the injection of water into the reservoir from injection wells during the development process of an oil field; due to its good economic efficiency and high feasibility, it has become the main method of oil field development) process of the G block reservoir is an important problem to solve. Three cores of the G block are used as the object of this study, and the laser particle size test is conducted on the target core to obtain the particle size distribution of the core. X-ray diffraction mineral content analysis is used to obtain the proportion of different mineral contents. On this basis, online nuclear magnetic technology is used to carry out the research on the change of reservoir physical properties during the high-magnification water injection process. The experiment shows that three cores (cores 8-2, 16-1, and 9) are identified as medium sandy fine sandstone with silt (the three-level naming method was adopted and the name has been changed to medium sandy fine sandstone containing silt, because the proportion of fine sand is greater than 50%, the content of medium sand is between 25%~50%, and the content of silt is between 10%~25%), medium sandy fin sandstone containing silt, and silt fine sandstone, by laser particle size testing. Their clay mineral contents are 2.47%, 2.51%, and 4.76%, respectively; the permeability (water) of the three cores continues to decrease with the increase in water injection, but the nuclear magnetic porosity and the signal intensity of different fluids in the nuclear magnetic T2 and nuclear magnetic two-dimensional spectrum show different variation patterns with the increase in water injection. The clay minerals of core 8-2 and core 16-1 are relatively small. The nuclear magnetic porosity increases rapidly to the maximum value and then decreases slowly with the increase in water injection. The right peak signal intensity in the T2 spectrum rises first and then drops, while the clay mineral content of core 9 is relatively high. The change trend of nuclear magnetic porosity is firstly decreasing and then increasing, and the signal intensity of the right peak in the T2 spectrum decreases first and then increases. The research concludes that in the early stage of water injection, clay minerals undergo hydration and a small amount of particle migration; in the later stage of water injection, due to the scouring effect of water, the fine silt and clay minerals in the cement easily fall off and migrate to the pore throat to the block. Some damage to the pore throat leads to a decrease in permeability, thus affecting the development effect.
Forecasting Household Energy Consumption in European Union Countries: An Econometric Modelling Approach
Authors: Chudy-Laskowska Katarzyna , Pisula Tomasz
Published: July 2023

The article raises issues regarding the consumption of energy from both fossil and renewable sources in households. The research was carried out on the basis of data obtained from the Eurostat database, which covered the period from 1995 to 2021 and concerned the European Union countries. Increasing energy consumption and, thus, increasing household expenses affect their standard of living. The purpose of the analysis was to construct two econometric models for electricity consumption. The first model referred to the consumption of energy from fossil sources and the second from renewable sources. A forecast of energy consumption in households was also constructed on the basis of estimated models. Econometric modelling methods (multiple regression) and time-series forecasting methods (linear regression method, exponential smoothing models) were applied for the study. Research shows that the main factor that models energy consumption in households, both from fossil and renewable sources, is the final consumption expenditure of households (Euro per capita). The set of indicators for the models varies depending on the type of energy source. The forecast shows that the share of energy consumption obtained from fossil sources will decrease systematically, while the share of energy consumption from renewable sources will continue to increase systematically.