bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response of rice genotypes to rice root‐knot nematode (Meloidogyne graminicola) infection under varying temperature regimes
Authors: Devaraja Koratigere Parameshanayka , Ellur Ranjith Kumar ,   Pankaj, Singh Ashok K. , Abhishek Gowda Anumanahalli Puttasawamy , Sirohi Anil
Published: September 2022

The rice root‐knot nematode (RRKN), Meloidogyne graminicola, is one of the major pests of the rice–wheat cropping system. Resistance against M. graminicola in rice could be most valuable in alleviating this problem. The host response of 75 Oryza genotypes was examined at three day/night temperature regimes, 29/26°C, 34/31°C and 38/35°C, in Pluronic gel as well as in soil. Out of the 75 selected rice genotypes, only Zhenshan 97 B exhibited high resistance to this set of temperature regimes, with the least number of galls/root system. At 34/31°C, more second‐stage juveniles (J2s) were hatched and J2 population densities in roots of the susceptible rice genotypes increased significantly compared with those of plants grown at the 29/26°C. In resistant genotypes, only a few J2s penetrated roots and developed into mature females. The histopathological studies revealed that in susceptible rice genotypes at high‐temperature regimes, the multinucleate giant cells were well developed. The results presented in this study revealed that an increase in temperature had a significant effect on the resistance of rice genotypes and resistance appeared more pronounced in genotype Zhenshan 97 B. This resistant genotype can be used in marker‐assisted selection to develop resistant elite cultivars.
Effect of forsythoside A on the transcriptional profile of bovine mammary epithelial cells challenged with lipoteichoic acid
Authors: Shen Puxiu , Yu Jingcheng , Long Xiaochuan , Huang Xiankai , Tong Chao , Wang Xinzhuang
Published: September 2022

Mastitis is a common disease of the dairy cattle, which affects the development of the dairy industry and leads to huge economic losses. Forsythoside A (FTA) has anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral and anti‐apoptotic effects. However, the therapeutic effect and molecular mechanism of FTA on dairy cow mastitis remain unclear. In this study, bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs) were stimulated with lipoteichoic acid (LTA), a key virulence factor of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), to construct in vitro models, and then treated with FTA. Subsequently, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in different groups were determined by RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq) analysis. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were used to analyse the possible function of the DEGs, real‐time quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR) was used to verify whether the expression levels of these DEGs were consistent with RNA‐Seq results. The results showed that cell division cycle 20B (CDC20B), endothelial cell surface expressed chemotaxis and apoptosis regulator (ECSCR), complement factor H‐related 5 (CFHR5) and phospholipase A2 group IVA (PLA2G4A) were down‐regulated after FTA treatment. In contrast, Kruppel‐like factor 15 (KLF15) and Metallothionein 1E (MT1E) were up‐regulated. These DEGs are involved in processes such as apoptosis, inflammation and development of cancer. This study provides valuable insights into the transcriptome changes in BMECs after FTA treatment. Further analysis may help identify the underlying molecular mechanisms.
High nutrient loads hinder successful restoration of natural habitats in freshwater wetlands
Authors: Moeslund Jesper E. , Andersen Dagmar K. , Brunbjerg Ane K. , Bruun Hans H. , Fløjgaard Camilla , McQueen Sebastian N. , Nygaard Bettina , Ejrnæs Rasmus
Published: September 2022

Restoration of natural processes in ecosystems is key to mitigate the biodiversity crisis. Here, we evaluate 20 Danish stream‐valley restoration projects—mainly by rewetting—in terms of successful restoration of natural wetland habitats. We used quadratic discriminant analysis and generalized linear models to compare 80 vegetation plots from the restoration projects with >60,000 natural or semi‐natural wetland reference plots. We modeled the influence of time since restoration, grazing, rewetting, and nutrient availability on (1) the probability that study plots belong to natural habitats and (2) their richness of high‐quality‐habitat indicator species. The probability of a restored wetland having developed into a natural wetland habitat—such as an alkaline fen—was generally below 10%. Also, we found only half as many indicator species in restored wetlands than in reference wetlands and we demonstrated that the number of characteristic alkaline fen species did not deviate from what could be expected under the prevailing nutrient conditions. We found a negative effect of soil nutrient availability on the number of high‐quality‐habitat indicator species and the lowest probability of plots being natural wetlands in the most nutrient rich plots. The effect of grazing was only positive in the first years after restoration and only in the most nutrient rich plots, while the effect of rewetting sites to historical hydrological conditions was generally negative. Our findings suggest that unnaturally high nutrient availability is probably the core limiting factor for successful restoration of natural wetlands and their associated plant diversity.
Traditional medicine treatment in addressing the issue of women's stress and depression: A policy implementation perspective
Authors: Abd Rahman Siti Aishah , Othman Nooraini , Mohamad Mohd Afifuddin
Published: September 2022

The aim of this article is to highlight the importance of traditional treatment as a complimentary method of treatment for women with postpartum depression and stress. Even though the modern treatment and medicine have been recognised in improving the society’s health and well-being, the traditional medicine and treatment have been part of the society since the very old days. Having said this, the government has developed a National Policy of Traditional and Complementary Medicine (TCM) to facilitate the development of traditional and complementary medicine in order to achieve the quality and safety level of treatment practices recognized by the Helath Ministry by promoting the correct and reasonable use of the medicine, especially in primary health care. The way forward is discussed.
Feasibility of Vascular Parameter Estimation for Assessing Hypertensive Pregnancy Disorders
Authors: Kissas Georgios , Hwuang Eileen , Thompson Elizabeth W. , Schwartz Nadav , Detre John A. , Witschey Walter R. , Perdikaris Paris
Published: September 2022

Hypertensive pregnancy disorders (HPDs), such as pre-eclampsia, are leading sources of both maternal and fetal morbidity in pregnancy. Noninvasive imaging, such as ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is an important tool for predicting and monitoring these high risk pregnancies. While imaging can measure hemodynamic parameters, such as uterine artery pulsatility and resistivity indices (PI and RI), the interpretation of such metrics for disease assessment relies on ad hoc standards, which provide limited insight to the physical mechanisms underlying the emergence of hypertensive pregnancy disorders. To provide meaningful interpretation of measured hemodynamic data in patients, advances in computational fluid dynamics can be brought to bear. In this work, we develop a patient-specific computational framework that combines Bayesian inference with a reduced-order fluid dynamics model to infer parameters, such as vascular resistance, compliance, and vessel cross-sectional area, known to be related to the development of hypertension. The proposed framework enables the prediction of hemodynamic quantities of interest, such as pressure and velocity, directly from sparse and noisy MRI measurements. We illustrate the effectiveness of this approach in two systemic arterial network geometries: an aorta with branching carotid artery and a maternal pelvic arterial network. For both cases, the model can reconstruct the provided measurements and infer parameters of interest. In the case of the maternal pelvic arteries, the model can make a distinction between the pregnancies destined to develop hypertension and those that remain normotensive, expressed through the value range of the predicted absolute pressure.
Generating Human Arm Kinematics using Reinforcement Learning to Train Active Muscle Behavior in Automotive Research
Authors: Mukherjee Sayak , Perez-Rapela Daniel , Forman Jason , Panzer Matthew B.
Published: September 2022

Computational Human Body Models (HBMs) are important tools for predicting human biomechanical response under automotive crash environments. In many scenarios, the prediction of the occupant response will be improved by incorporating active muscle control to into the HBMs to generate biofidelic kinematics during different vehicle maneuvers. In this study, we have proposed an approach to develop an active muscle controller based on reinforcement learning (RL). The RL Muscle Activation Control (RL-MAC) approach is a shift from using traditional closed-loop feedback controllers which can mimic accurate active muscle behavior under a limited range of loading conditions for which the controller has been tuned. Conversely, the RL-MAC uses an iterative training approach to generate active muscle forces for desired joint motion and is analogous to how a child develops gross motor skills. In this study, the ability of a deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) RL controller to generate accurate human kinematics is demonstrated using a multibody model of the human arm. The arm model was trained to perform goal-directed elbow rotation by activating the responsible muscles, investigated using two recruitment schemes: as independent muscles or as antagonistic muscle groups. Simulations with the trained controller show that the arm can move to the target position in presence or absence of external applied loads. The RL-MAC trained under constant external loads was able to maintain the desired elbow joint angle under a simplified automotive impact scenario, implying the robustness of the motor control approach.
Study to Adapt Industrial Gas Turbines for Significant and Viable CO2 Emissions Reduction
Authors: Burnes Dan , Saxena Priyank , Kurz Rainer
Published: September 2022

Gas turbines have been a significant part of energy production and transportation for decades and should continue indefinitely. As the world evaluates the best approaches to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in the world by 2050, while also meeting energy demand, the industrial gas turbine will remain part of that solution with a variety of adaptations. Current (2021) global temperature rise from preindustrial levels is at about 1.2 °C and increasing at a significant rate. The Paris Agreement's objective is to mitigate this rise to 1.5 °C to stem climatic catastrophes and change. Adapting industrial gas turbines for lower CO2 emissions and carbon capture will be incentivized as the pricing authority on CO2 emissions will continue to increase throughout the world. Using the vast existing natural gas infrastructure, post combustion carbon capture adapting to pure hydrogen or hydrogen/natural gas blends, and other augmented solutions will yield substantial GHG reductions that could be implemented on industrial gas turbines. This paper presents the performance impact of adapting the industrial gas turbines for cost-effective carbon capture and using fuels with lower carbon content, such as hydrogen and hydrogen-natural gas blends. As a part of the discussion, the options of either transporting hydrogen to a power plant or transporting natural gas to said power plant and compressing and transporting captured CO2 back to a sequestration site, are evaluated, and supported with simulation data. Lastly, various configurations and mitigations that minimize carbon intensity are discussed and assessed through a simplified techno-economic analysis showing thresholds where industrial gas turbines remain viable in a clean energy future. Industrial gas turbines are needed for growing energy demand and to complement the growing deployment of clean and safe renewable energy sources.
Obstacle Avoidance for Omnidirectional Mobile Robot Using SLAM
Authors: Nandikolla Vidya K. , Ghoslin Bryan
Published: September 2022

In the field of mobile robotics, simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) is an algorithmic approach to the computational problem of creating and updating a map of an environment while simultaneously keeping track of where the robot is within the environment. Applications of a SLAM algorithm are important for autonomous mobile systems to traverse an environment while avoiding obstacles and accurately achieving designated goal destinations. This paper presents the design of a SLAM-driven controller for a semi-autonomous omnidirectional mobile robot. Input to the system comes from a brain computer interface in the form of simple driving commands or a goal destination as decided by the user. Due to latency issues of reacting and responding in real-time, the system must safely navigate following the last given commands until it runs out of free space, reaches a goal designation, or receives a new command. The robotic system utilizes a three-wheeled robot kit with an upgraded sensor system. The Intel realsense depth camera D435 and two lidar sensors are utilized to construct a full 360 deg field of view. The SLAM algorithm and system controllers are developed using the robot operating system (ROS). The controllers are developed and tested within Gazebo, which is a physics simulation engine utilized for rapid prototyping. Testing was performed to validate controller performance when given varying commands as well as performing long distance path planning and obstacle avoidance. The system was often capable of achieving its goal destinations with a small error of around 3% or less though the error was found to increase with the more commands the system processed.
Robust Dynamic Modeling and Trajectory Tracking Controller of a Universal Omni-Wheeled Mobile Robot
Authors: Amarasiri Nalaka , Barhorst Alan A. , Gottumukkala Raju
Published: September 2022

Omnidirectional mobile robots are widely used in studies and services as they are effective and efficient in moving in any direction regardless of their current orientation. These significant properties are very useful in energy-efficient navigation and obstacle avoidance in dynamic environments. The literature on modeling and control of omni-wheel robots usually relies on the kinematic model or simplified kinematic model. Then developing control laws based on these reduced-effect models. In this article, we developed an efficient full dynamic model of a nonholonomic omni-wheel robot, including roller dynamics. That allows for a proportional–integral–derivative control law to accurately follow arbitrary paths. Kane’s approach was used for the dynamic model derivation. Kinematic modeling is less complex than multibody dynamic modeling. But to have an accurate simulation of the realistic motions of a mechanical system, the multibody dynamic model is required.
Estimating Stress Intensity Factor for Semi Elliptical Circumferential Cracks in Offshore Wind Turbine Monopiles Using Weight Functions
Authors: Fajuyigbe Ayodele , Brennan F.
Published: September 2022

A methodology for calculating the stress intensity factor (SIF) of an offshore monopile containing a semi-elliptical external surface crack subjected to a complex stress distribution is presented in this paper. The approach is based on the theory of weight functions. The proposed methodology is validated against results presented in literature and also bespoke finite element analysis. The proposed methodology is significantly faster than conventional finite element fracture mechanics analysis. It also produces a more accurate estimation of SIF for monopiles compared against industrial standards such as BS 7910. The near-instantaneous calculation of SIF for any cracked monopile is a significant development in certifying the integrity of aged offshore wind turbine monopiles as it allows the fitness for purpose of the cracked structure to be assessed in pseudo real time.
An Improved Method of Establishing Extreme Metocean Conditions in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Jones Oliver P. , Hansen Hans Fabricius , Zhang Michael
Published: September 2022

Metocean criteria at a Floating Production Unit (FPU) in the central Gulf Of Mexico (GoM) are being reassessed to support the facility’s Life Extension. Two key shortcomings of previous approaches to the development of hurricane ‘full population’ criteria have been addressed here. These include the extrapolation of correlated grid-point ‘pooled’ data and ‘non-peak’ storm data - both of which can lead to bias in extreme value estimates. These improvements have been achieved through the identification of a statistically homogenous set of hindcast grid-points. Each grid point exhibits variability in the tail region of the distribution, as a result of limited sampling of both storm track and intensity. By first, fitting a non stationary model of the marginal and joint extremes to the tails of storm peaks from each grid point and, then, merging the resulting distribution parameters from each, we establish a method of incorporating the spatial variability in both track and intensity - across a data sparse, homogenous hurricane region - into design estimates, without recourse to grid-point pooling or track-shifting and all their inherent issues. The new method also provides a set of statistically consistent hurricane storm trajectories, based on the extrapolated ensemble of tail distribution parameters. This is expected to provide significant reductions to the joint load cases, compared to standard practise.
Re-Qualification of Existing Subsea Pipelines for CO2 and H2 Transport, Structural Integrity Challenges
Authors: Horn Agnes Marie , Hugaas Bjørn-Andreas , Leinum Bente , Østby Erling , Heiberg Gustav
Published: September 2022

There is currently a strong interest to explore the use of existing pipeline subsea infrastructures to transport carbon dioxide (CO2) in dense phase or hydrogen gas (H2) as a part of the new energy mix. Change of product will per applicable pipeline design codes require a re-qualification to ensure that the new premises for change in operation is properly assessed and confirmed acceptable with respect to pipeline safety, reliability, operability and transport capacity. Per DNV-ST-F101, Sec.11.E, a re-qualification is a re-assessment of the pipeline design under changed design conditions. For CO2 pipelines, a re-qualification work process is presented in the updated DNV-RP-F104 ‘Design and Operation of carbon dioxide pipelines’ and some industry experience exist for onshore pipelines. ASME B31.12 offers guidance for design of new H2 pipelines. However, for repurposing of existing pipeline infrastructure for hydrogen gas transport, limited guidance exists, especially for offshore pipelines. In this work, it has been explored if it is feasible to apply the same work processes used for CO2 transport as a basis for re-qualification of hydrogen transport. The paper will on a high-level discuss and present a possible work process to document acceptable system integrity under changed operational conditions from natural gas to CO2 and H2 with focus on the structural integrity of the pipeline. The paper will also highlight some of the special challenges related to the two possible new applications. For hydrogen pipelines this is especially related to potential impact of the hydrogen on the mechanical properties of the line pipe material and associated welds. Special challenges for CO2 pipelines are related to risk of very high corrosion rate and documentation of capability to arrest running ductile fracture. This paper will conclude with a discussion of the main gaps that need to be sorted out before fully robust general procedures to re-qualify pipeline for CO2 or H2 transport are available.
Offshore Industry Initiatives on Ageing And Life Extension
Authors: Stewart Cameron , Temple Stephen , Fraser Ramsay , Stacey Alexander
Published: September 2022

The offshore industry has now matured since the installation of the first major offshore oil and gas platforms in the 1960s and a significant and increasing proportion of the infrastructure has exceeded the original design life. The industry has recognised in recent years the significance of the concept of ageing and life extension and the need to adapt integrity management procedures to enable continued safe production beyond the design life. As a result, it has taken the initiative to establish two industry groups, the Ageing and Life Extension Committee and the MetOceaN Network, to develop technology and integrity management procedures for the ageing offshore infrastructure and to disseminate the information to stakeholders, with a view to providing a common industry approach.

The Energy Institute (EI) Ageing and Life Extension Committee (ALECOM) has been in existence since 2010 and has supported projects covering a wide range of subjects, including fixed structures, mobile structures, FPSOs, moorings, conductors, caissons, risk-based inspection, performance standards, decommissioning, fatigue assessment and ship impact. The EI MetOceaN Network was launched in 2020 and has attracted membership from around the world. The creation of the network was motivated by the need to address the assessment of the risk of offshore structures to extreme loading and, in particular, the vulnerability of ageing structures which were not designed to the same criteria as more contemporary structures. A key aim of the Metocean Network is to develop guidance on the assessment of extreme loading and to enable the development of standards procedures reflecting the latest knowledge on the subject.

This paper presents the work of the two industry groups.
Evaluation of Flange Leakage due to Thermal Bowing and Shock
Authors: Diwakar Philip , Liu Yuqing , ElJaouhari Ismat
Published: September 2022

During a flaring event, some operating conditions in an LNG plant cause liquid refrigerant to be introduced into a flare header causing large temperature gradients between the bottom and top wall and lead to vertical and lateral displacements along with rotation of the horizontal header. This thermal bowing is a serious problem with risk of flange leakage due to differential thermal expansion between bolts and flange and pipe cracks at high stress concentration location as it lifts off the supports. This paper evaluates the introduction of warm gas into the flare header to prevent a flange leakage as a mitigation attempt.

This paper recounts the use of Fluid Structure Interaction (FSI) to study bowing and flange leakage mitigation. The liquid flowing from the lateral into the main header pipe is multiphase in the dispersed, stratified, slug or annular flow régime. Multiphase flows with heat transfer are analyzed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and conjugate heat transfer for steel. The temperatures on the metal are then transferred to a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and analyzed for thermal stresses and deformation due to bowing. Elastic plastic Service Criteria Assessment per ASME BPVC Sec-VIII, Div.2 Part 5.2.4.3 (b) is performed to calculate Von-Mises, peak stresses and derive membrane and bending stresses on the hub, bolts, and gasket. These stresses are compared to ASME standard allowable limits. Based on these results, risk of flange leakage is evaluated, and mitigations are recommended to reduce the risk.
Reliability-Based Inspection Intervals of Offshore Jacket Fleets
Authors: Younan Adel , Angevine Doug
Published: September 2022

The kernel underwater inspection interval of offshore steel piled jackets in API 2SIM is 5 years. Thousands of steel piled jackets worldwide use this value to set Level II underwater inspection frequencies. However, the genesis of the 5 year interval is uncertain. It could be either based on the damage found in early platform inspections or it could have more logically followed from the ship hull Drydocking survey practice. It is worth noting, however, that the later does not directly apply to jackets which are completely different structural systems. In any case, the uncertainty in the 5 year origin, plus the lack of anomalies in most underwater inspections beg the question: are we over inspecting offshore platforms? To answer this question, we commenced a quest to establish an inspection interval methodology from fundamentals of jacket response to environmental loading and resulting reliability. A reliability-based inspection interval (RLII) methodology was born. It is based on the use of platform annual reliability degradation due to corrosion, fatigue, and potential mechanical damage. First, nonlinear pushovers of platform at onset and as expected at a future point is determined; the future model captures severed joints based on fatigue analysis and any expected corrosion damage. The lateral capacities are then mapped to a platform base shear hazard curve to estimate the corresponding probability of failure. The difference in failure probability at onset and in the future, factored by platform life, determine annual reliability degradation. With probability of failure mapped to a Normal distribution, a minimum target reliability index and a corresponding factor of safety selected, a reliability-based inspection interval can then be established. Furthermore, a cap on inspection intervals can be recommended to cover general uncertainty in finding platform damage including corrosion. In this paper, we summarize and publicize the novel RLII approach, and then demonstrate its application to example jackets. This methodology has been successfully used internally to establish inspection intervals for ExxonMobil fleets of steel piled jackets.
Repair Methods for Loadbearing Steel Structures Operating on the Norwegian Continental Shelf
Authors: Fjeldstad Arne , Landet Einar , Bjørheim Lars G , Ersdal Gerhard
Published: September 2022

This paper results from a project initiated by the Petroleum Safety Authority of Norway to describe relevant repair methods for load bearing steel and concrete structures operating on the Norwegian continental shelf. The purpose of the work was to establish a better understanding of repair methods by gathering the experience through decades of oil and gas activities mainly on the Norwegian continental shelf. This paper presents a review of repairs relevant to steel structures.

A repair is broadly defined in this paper and includes:

The paper includes a brief introduction to government requirements related to petroleum activity on the Norwegian continental shelf. The petroleum industry in Norway is regulated by the Petroleum Safety Authority which further refers to the NORSOK standards and to some extent ISO standards for more detailed principles and guidelines for design and operation of load bearing structures.

An important part of a repair project is to uncover the root-cause of the damage or anomaly as this affects how further repair work is to be planned and performed. This often involves analysis that considers the current state of the structure. The results will form the basis for assessing the extent of the problem and whether repair is a necessary measure. In cases where it is concluded that repair is necessary, it needs to be determined the most appropriate repair method. It may also be concluded that repair is not necessary and then it is more appropriate to monitor the condition through an inspection and monitoring program.

The repair methods described in this paper are mainly related to fatigue cracks, corrosion and permanent deformation due to overload. Most methods are well known and have been used for decades on the Norwegian continental shelf. The effect and long-term properties can therefore be said to be well known. A few methods where the use is relatively new and where knowledge about the effect and long-term properties can be said to be limited are also presented.
Production Riser Life Extension – A Class Perspective
Authors: Song Hao , Wang Suqin
Published: September 2022

Risers are a critical element in subsea production systems for transporting hydrocarbons from the seafloor to the surface. Many subsea production risers are approaching the end of their original design life (e.g. 20 or 25 years); therefore, they need to be either decommissioned or entered into in a life extension process. Due to enhanced recovery and tiebacks from adjacent fields, more and more existing fields are continuing to produce. As a result, the life extension of those offshore assets including production risers has become a viable solution.

For a riser’s life extension application, the process generally includes three phases: investigation, determination, and implementation. Baseline surveys and data collection should be performed during the investigation phase. A riser’s life extension requires a life extension assessment created from collected riser characteristic data, condition data, and operating data to confirm the riser’s integrity and its capacity for extended operations under future operating conditions. The life extension assessment may confirm that the riser is fit-for-service in its present condition for the planned extended service life, or call for a plan with repairs, component replacements, additional inspections, additional monitoring, or a combination of these.

An application for riser life extension is usually required to be submitted to the local Authority (if applicable) for approval. Owners and operators generally require the review of the riser life extension by an independent third party (I3P). The earlier the I3P/CVA engages in the process, the better the readiness of the life extension application.

Currently, industry experience on production riser life extension is limited, and safety of aging production risers is a major focus of the industry. This paper addresses the technical recommendations and guidance from a Class perspective on life extension for subsea production risers attached to floating production installations that produce and/or store hydrocarbons. The same process and methodology are also applicable to injection risers and import/export risers. The technological challenges associated with riser life extensions are highlighted. Special cases of the riser life extension in Gulf of Mexico (GoM) and risers managed in an integrity management program are also demonstrated.
Integrity Management of Ageing Offshore Structures: Technical Developments and Challenges
Authors: Stacey Alexander , Sharp John V
Published: September 2022

The offshore industry in the North Sea and other parts of the world is a mature industry and a significant and ever-increasing proportion of the infrastructure is being operated beyond the original design life. This requires the implementation of a suitable integrity management system based on the use of codes, standards and guidance, which have been developed from a considerable body of research over many years, to enable the safe operation of ageing structures. During this time, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has led the commissioning of relevant research aimed at developing suitable guidance in support of its enforcement activities. This has covered a very wide range of relevant topics and the substantial body of results has been incorporated subsequently into offshore industry standards and guidance.

Despite the considerable technical advances that have been made over the years in areas such as fatigue performance, static strength, inspection techniques / strategies and repair methods, significant technical challenges to the maintenance of the integrity of ageing structures remain. This is due to the uncertainties associated with complex analytical predictions and the condition of the structure, the full extent of which is not always known due to limitations in current inspection methods and practices. Furthermore, the economic aspects of continued operation present another important challenge.

In addition to the detailed review of the extensive research programme funded by the UK Department of Energy and the Health and Safety Executive, the paper addresses the several uncertainties that are relevant to the safe management of ageing and life extension of offshore structures and the consequent challenges that characterise integrity management strategies.
Digital Transformation by the Implementation of the True Digital Twin Concept and Big Data Technology for Structural Integrity Management
Authors: Tygesen U. T. , Cross E. J. , Gardner P. , Worden K. , Qadri B.A. , Rogers T.J.
Published: September 2022

For re-assessment of ‘traditional’ industry asset management methods the key technology is Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) combined with the recent development within novel Big Data technologies. The technologies support the digital transformation of the industry with the purpose of cost reduction and increase of structural safety level. Today’s State-of-the-Art methods encompass novel advanced analysis methods ranging from linear and nonlinear system identification, virtual sensing, Bayesian FEM updating, load calibration, quantification and propagation of uncertainties and predictive maintenance. Challenges approachable with the new methods cover structural re-assessment analysis, Risk- and Reliability-Based Inspection Planning (RBI), and new ground-breaking methods for damage detection; many of which exploit recent advances in Machine Learning and AI and the concept of the ‘True’ Digital Twin. In this paper, a selection of the new disruptive technologies is presented along with a summary of the limitations of current approaches, leading to suggestions as to where tomorrows’ new methods will emerge. New frameworks are suggested for the way forward for future R&D activities based on an Ontological Approach, founded on a shared communication purpose and the systemising/standardisation of the methods for performing SHM. The Ontology Approach can be embedded in, or made compatible with, organising (and decision-supporting) frameworks based on Population-based SHM methods and extended Probabilistic Risk Analysis. The new ideas also offer the potential benefit of gaining information/learning from a large pool of structures (the population) over time and by transfer learning, transferring missing information to individual structures where less (or no) specific data are available.
Remaining Technical Gaps
Authors: Salama Mamdouh M. , Stacey Alex , Ersdal Gerhard
Published: September 2022

The remaining gaps were identified in a panel session held at the end of the conference. The gaps were identified by the following 9 panelists: Graham Feld (Shell), Ramsay Fraser (BP), John Kent (Worley), Oliver Jones (BP), Frank Puskar (Consultant), Donald Smith (Eni), Jens Tronskar (DNV), John Wintle (Consultant) and Adel Younan (ExxonMobil). Additional input on the gaps was provided by the other participants in the conference. This section presents the key issues that were identified and their associated gaps
Analysis of sloppiness in model simulations: Unveiling parameter uncertainty when mathematical models are fitted to data
Authors: Monsalve-Bravo Gloria M. , Lawson Brodie A. J. , Drovandi Christopher , Burrage Kevin , Brown Kevin S. , Baker Christopher M. , Vollert Sarah A. , Mengersen Kerrie , McDonald-Madden Eve , Adams Matthew P.
Published: September 2022

This work introduces a comprehensive approach to assess the sensitivity of model outputs to changes in parameter values, constrained by the combination of prior beliefs and data. This approach identifies stiff parameter combinations strongly affecting the quality of the model-data fit while simultaneously revealing which of these key parameter combinations are informed primarily by the data or are also substantively influenced by the priors. We focus on the very common context in complex systems where the amount and quality of data are low compared to the number of model parameters to be collectively estimated, and showcase the benefits of this technique for applications in biochemistry, ecology, and cardiac electrophysiology. We also show how stiff parameter combinations, once identified, uncover controlling mechanisms underlying the system being modeled and inform which of the model parameters need to be prioritized in future experiments for improved parameter inference from collective model-data fitting.
The structure of a polyketide synthase bimodule core
Authors: Tittes Yves U. , Herbst Dominik A. , Martin Solène F. X. , Munoz-Hernandez Hugo , Jakob Roman P. , Maier Timm
Published: September 2022

Polyketide synthases (PKSs) are predominantly microbial biosynthetic enzymes. They assemble highly potent bioactive natural products from simple carboxylic acid precursors. The most versatile families of PKSs are organized as assembly lines of functional modules. Each module performs one round of precursor extension and optional modification, followed by directed transfer of the intermediate to the next module. While enzymatic domains and even modules of PKSs are well understood, the higher-order modular architecture of PKS assembly lines remains elusive. Here, we visualize a PKS bimodule core using cryo–electron microscopy and resolve a two-dimensional meshwork of the bimodule core formed by homotypic interactions between modules. The sheet-like organization provides the framework for efficient substrate transfer and for sequestration of trans-acting enzymes required for polyketide production.
Organoid-on-a-chip model of human ARPKD reveals mechanosensing pathomechanisms for drug discovery
Authors: Hiratsuka Ken , Miyoshi Tomoya , Kroll Katharina T. , Gupta Navin R. , Valerius M. Todd , Ferrante Thomas , Yamashita Michifumi , Lewis Jennifer A. , Morizane Ryuji
Published: September 2022

Organoids serve as a novel tool for disease modeling in three-dimensional multicellular contexts. Static organoids, however, lack the requisite biophysical microenvironment such as fluid flow, limiting their ability to faithfully recapitulate disease pathology. Here, we unite organoids with organ-on-a-chip technology to unravel disease pathology and develop therapies for autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease.
PKHD1
-mutant organoids-on-a-chip are subjected to flow that induces clinically relevant phenotypes of distal nephron dilatation. Transcriptomics discover 229 signal pathways that are not identified by static models. Mechanosensing molecules, RAC1 and FOS, are identified as potential therapeutic targets and validated by patient kidney samples. On the basis of this insight, we tested two U.S. Food and Drug Administration–approved and one investigational new drugs that target RAC1 and FOS in our organoid-on-a-chip model, which suppressed cyst formation. Our observations highlight the vast potential of organoid-on-a-chip models to elucidate complex disease mechanisms for therapeutic testing and discovery.
The adipocyte-enriched secretory protein tetranectin exacerbates type 2 diabetes by inhibiting insulin secretion from β cells
Authors: Liu Fen , Cai Zixin , Yang Yan , Plasko George , Zhao Piao , Wu Xiangyue , Tang Cheng , Li Dandan , Li Ting , Hu Shanbiao , Song Lei , Yu Shaojie , Xu Ran , Luo Hairong , Fan Libin , Wang Ersong , Xiao Zhen , Ji Yujiao , Zeng Rong , Li Rongxia , Bai Juli , Zhou Zhiguang , Liu Feng , Zhang Jingjing
Published: September 2022

Pancreatic β cell failure is a hallmark of diabetes. However, the causes of β cell failure remain incomplete. Here, we report the identification of tetranectin (TN), an adipose tissue–enriched secretory molecule, as a negative regulator of insulin secretion in β cells in diabetes. TN expression is stimulated by high glucose in adipocytes via the p38 MAPK/TXNIP/thioredoxin/OCT4 signaling pathway, and elevated serum TN levels are associated with diabetes. TN treatment greatly exacerbates hyperglycemia in mice and suppresses glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in islets. Conversely, knockout of TN or neutralization of TN function notably improves insulin secretion and glucose tolerance in high-fat diet–fed mice. Mechanistically, TN binds with high selectivity to β cells and inhibits insulin secretion by blocking L-type Ca
2+
channels. Our study uncovers an adipocyte–β cell cross-talk that contributes to β cell dysfunction in diabetes and suggests that neutralization of TN levels may provide a new treatment strategy for type 2 diabetes.
Monitoring gait at home with radio waves in Parkinson’s disease: A marker of severity, progression, and medication response
Authors: Liu Yingcheng , Zhang Guo , Tarolli Christopher G. , Hristov Rumen , Jensen-Roberts Stella , Waddell Emma M. , Myers Taylor L. , Pawlik Meghan E. , Soto Julia M. , Wilson Renee M. , Yang Yuzhe , Nordahl Timothy , Lizarraga Karlo J. , Adams Jamie L. , Schneider Ruth B. , Kieburtz Karl , Ellis Terry , Dorsey E. Ray , Katabi Dina
Published: September 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the fastest-growing neurological disease in the world. A key challenge in PD is tracking disease severity, progression, and medication response. Existing methods are semisubjective and require visiting the clinic. In this work, we demonstrate an effective approach for assessing PD severity, progression, and medication response at home, in an objective manner. We used a radio device located in the background of the home. The device detected and analyzed the radio waves that bounce off people’s bodies and inferred their movements and gait speed. We continuously monitored 50 participants, with and without PD, in their homes for up to 1 year. We collected over 200,000 gait speed measurements. Cross-sectional analysis of the data shows that at-home gait speed strongly correlates with gold-standard PD assessments, as evaluated by the Movement Disorder Society-Sponsored Revision of the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) part III subscore and total score. At-home gait speed also provides a more sensitive marker for tracking disease progression over time than the widely used MDS-UPDRS. Further, the monitored gait speed was able to capture symptom fluctuations in response to medications and their impact on patients’ daily functioning. Our study shows the feasibility of continuous, objective, sensitive, and passive assessment of PD at home and hence has the potential of improving clinical care and drug clinical trials.
Effects of UV-C Disinfection on N95 and KN95 Filtering Facepiece Respirator Reuse
Authors: Bernardy Castine , Elardo Nicola , Trautz Alexa , Malley Jim , Wang Diyuan , Ducoste Joel
Published: September 2022

Research suggests degradation of FFR materials at high UV doses is important. There appears to be a peak inactivation dose at approximately 1,500 mJ/cm
2
. The subsequent dose increases appear to have the reverse effect on inactivation values; these trends have shown true with both the N95 and KN95-Purism respirators.
Answer to September 2022 Photo Quiz
Authors: Dupont D. , Richard J. C. , Wallon M. , Debord-Peguet S. , Persat F.
Published: September 2022

Read the full article for the answer.
Beta Human Papillomavirus 8 E6 Induces Micronucleus Formation and Promotes Chromothripsis
Authors: Dacus Dalton , Stancic Steven , Pollina Sarah R. , Rifrogiate Elizabeth , Palinski Rachel , Wallace Nicholas A.
Published: September 2022

Some beta genus human papillomaviruses (β-HPVs) may promote skin carcinogenesis by inducing mutations in the host genome. Supporting this, the E6 protein from β-HPV8 (8 E6) promotes skin cancer in mice with or without UV exposure.
The Heptaprenyl Diphosphate Synthase (Coq1) Is the Target of a Lipophilic Bisphosphonate That Protects Mice against Toxoplasma gondii Infection
Authors: Sleda Melissa A. , Li Zhu-Hong , Behera Ranjan , Baierna Baihetiya , Li Catherine , Jumpathong Jomkwan , Malwal Satish R. , Kawamukai Makoto , Oldfield Eric , Moreno Silvia N. J.
Published: September 2022

Millions of people are infected with
Toxoplasma gondii
, and the available treatment for toxoplasmosis is not ideal. Most of the drugs currently used are only effective for the acute infection, and treatment can trigger serious side effects requiring changes in the therapeutic approach.
Complete Genome Sequence of Mycobacteriophage IgnatiusPatJac
Authors: Jacobs Olivia , Gentle Nikki , Ealand Christopher , Kana Bavesh
Published: September 2022

IgnatiusPatJac is a
Siphoviridae
mycobacteriophage capable of lytic infection in
Mycobacterium smegmatis
and
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
. It was isolated from damp soil in Johannesburg, South Africa. The 51,164-bp double-stranded DNA genome has a GC content of 63.6%, predicted to encode 93 genes. IgnatiusPatJac is classified as an A1 subcluster mycobacteriophage.
Genetic Features of a Representative Panel of 110 Meningococcal B Isolates to Assess the Efficacy of Meningococcal B Vaccines
Authors: Muzzi Alessandro , Bodini Margherita , Topaz Nadav , Masignani Vega , Vadivelu Kumaran , Marjuki Henju , Wang Xin , Serino Laura , Medini Duccio
Published: September 2022

Neisseria meningitidis
serogroup B (NmB) is a major cause of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD). Predicting the effectiveness of vaccines against NmB is difficult because NmB is an uncommon disease and because antigens targeted by meningococcal serogroup B (MenB) vaccines have highly variable genetic features and expression levels. Therefore, a large number of NmB isolates from different regions would need to be tested to comprehensively assess vaccine effectiveness. We examined a panel of 110 isolates obtained from NmB IMD cases in the United States and compared the genetic features of this panel with those of panels from different countries around the world. We found the 110-isolate panel included the most common clonal complexes and genetic variants of MenB vaccine antigens that exist in the global collections of invasive NmB isolates. This confirms the value of the NmB 110-isolate panel in understanding the effectiveness of MenB vaccines in clinical trials worldwide.
Supplemental Material: Novel age constraints for the onset of the Steptoean Positive Isotopic Carbon Excursion (SPICE) and the late Cambrian time scale using high-precision U-Pb detrital zircon ages
Authors: Cothren Hannah R. , al. et
Published: September 2022

Biostratigraphic data (S1, S2, S7); chemostratigraphic data (S3); detailed methodology (S4, S8, S9); geochronological data (S5, S6); and location details (S10). 
Supplemental Material: Validation of earthquake ground-motion models in southern California, USA, using precariously balanced rocks
Authors: Rood Anna H. , al. et
Published: September 2022

All the fragility, fragility age, and hazard validation results in color for each precariously balanced rock, and all the input and output cosmogenic-nuclide exposure dating data.
Adult-onset reversible idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in male adult carrying aWDR11missense mutation
Authors: Yamada Rie , Yamakita Noriyoshi , Yasuda Keigo , Imai Atsushi
Published: September 2022

Idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) occurs mostly in childhood or adolescence and very rarely in adulthood. It is characterised by delayed onset of secondary sexual characteristics. Many genetic abnormalities have been reported in congenital IHH cases, but rarely in adult-onset IHH cases. IHH requires lifelong hormone replacement therapy; however, a few reports suggest the reversibility of this condition.

In this case, after having his first child, a man in his 20s was diagnosed with gynecomastia followed by IHH. He improved with gonadotropin-releasing hormone replacement therapy and had two more children. The treatment was discontinued after 4 years, but the improvement was sustained. He had a heterozygous missense variant inWDR11(c.2390G>A; p.Arg797His), which may play a role in adult-onset IHH reversal. Accumulation of such cases can contribute to our understanding of the pathogenesis and genetic component of IHH.