bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endostatin 33 Peptide Is a Deintegrin α6β1 Agent That Exerts Antitumor Activity by Inhibiting the PI3K-Akt Signaling Pathway in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Chang-Lin , Pang Zhong-Qi , Gao Ke , Shen Lin-Kun , Xu Wan-Hai , Ren Ming-Hua
Published: February 2023

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the leading cause of death in men and has poor therapeutic outcomes. Methods: A novel endostatin 33 peptide was synthesized by adding a specific QRD sequence on the basis of the endostatin 30 peptide (PEP06) with antitumor activity. Then, bioinformatic analysis and subsequent experiments were performed to validate the antitumor function of this endostatin 33 peptide. Results: We found that the 33 polypeptides significantly inhibited growth, invasion and metastasis and promoted the apoptosis of PCa in vivo or vitro, which is more significant than PEP06 under the same conditions. According to 489 cases from the TCGA data portal, the α6β1 high expression group was closely associated with the poor prognosis (Gleason score, pathological N stage, etc.) of PCa and was mainly enriched in the PI3K-Akt pathway. Subsequently, we demonstrated that endostatin 33 peptide can down-regulate the PI3K-Akt pathway via the targeted inhibition of α6β1, thereby inhibiting the epithelial–mesenchymal transition and matrix metalloproteinase in C42 cell lines. Conclusion: The endostatin 33 peptide can exert antitumor effects by inhibiting the PI3K-Akt pathway, especially in tumors with a high expression of the integrin α6β1 subtype, such as prostate cancer. Therefore, our study will provide a new method and theoretical basis for the treatment of prostate cancer.
Deep Brain Stimulation in the Treatment of Tardive Dyskinesia
Authors: Szczakowska Adrianna , Gabryelska Agata , Gawlik-Kotelnicka Oliwia , Strzelecki Dominik
Published: February 2023

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a phenomenon observed following the predominantly long-term use of dopamine receptor blockers (antipsychotics) widely used in psychiatry. TD is a group of involuntary, irregular hyperkinetic movements, mainly in the muscles of the face, eyelid, lips, tongue, and cheeks, and less frequently in the limbs, neck, pelvis, and trunk. In some patients, TD takes on an extremely severe form, massively disrupting functioning and, moreover, causing stigmatization and suffering. Deep brain stimulation (DBS), a method used, among others, in Parkinson’s disease, is also an effective treatment for TD and often becomes a method of last resort, especially in severe, drug-resistant forms. The group of TD patients who have undergone DBS is still very limited. The procedure is relatively new in TD, so the available reliable clinical studies are few and consist mainly of case reports. Unilateral and bilateral stimulation of two sites has proven efficacy in TD treatment. Most authors describe stimulation of the globus pallidus internus (GPi); less frequent descriptions involve the subthalamic nucleus (STN). In the present paper, we provide up-to-date information on the stimulation of both mentioned brain areas. We also compare the efficacy of the two methods by comparing the two available studies that included the largest groups of patients. Although GPi stimulation is more frequently described in literature, our analysis indicates comparable results (reduction of involuntary movements) with STN DBS.
A Subjective and Objective Assessment of Combined Methods of Applying Chemical Peels and Microneedling in Antiaging Treatments
Authors: Markiewicz-Tomczyk Agata , Budzisz Elzbieta , Erkiert-Polguj Anna
Published: February 2023

Combined methods of applying chemical peels and antioxidants could be an option for skin rejuvenation with no down-time. The penetration of active substances can be enhanced by microneedle mesotherapy. The study was conducted on a group of 20 female volunteers, aged 40–65 years. All volunteers received a series of eight treatments performed every seven days. The whole face was first treated with azelaic acid; following this, the right side received a 40% solution of vitamin C and the left side 10% vitamin C with microneedling. Hydration and skin elasticity were markedly improved, with better results observed on the microneedling side. Melanin and erythema index decreased. No significant side effects were seen. The combination of active ingredients and delivery techniques have great potential to enhance the effectiveness of cosmetic preparations, probably by multidirectional ways of action. In our study, we demonstrated that both 20% azelaic acid + 40% vitamin C treatment and 20% azelaic acid + 10% vitamin C + microneedle mesotherapy efficiently improved the assessed parameters of aging skin. However, the use of microneedling mesotherapy as a means of direct delivery of active compound to the dermis enhanced the effectiveness of the studied preparation.
Prescribing Patterns and Outcomes of Edoxaban in Atrial Fibrillation: One-Year Data from the Global ETNA-AF Program
Authors: Chao Tze-Fan , Unverdorben Martin , Kirchhof Paulus , Koretsune Yukihiro , Yamashita Takeshi , Crozier Robert A. , Pecen Ladislav , Chen Cathy , Borrow Amanda P. , De Caterina Raffaele
Published: February 2023

Non-recommended dosing occurs in ~25–50% of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant prescriptions, with limited data for edoxaban. We analyzed edoxaban dosing patterns in atrial fibrillation patients from the Global ETNA-AF program, relating patterns to baseline characteristics and 1-year clinical outcomes. The following dosing groups were compared: non-recommended 60 mg (“overdosed”) vs. recommended 30 mg; non-recommended 30 mg (“underdosed”) vs. recommended 60 mg. Most (22,166/26,823; 82.6%) patients received recommended doses. Non-recommended dosing was more frequent near label-specified dose-reduction thresholds. Ischemic stroke (IS; HR 0.85, 95% CI 0.50–1.47; p = 0.6) and major bleeding (MB; HR 1.47, 95% CI 0.97–2.71; p = 0.07) did not differ between recommended 60 mg and “underdosed” groups, whereas all-cause (HR 1.61, 95% CI 1.23–2.08; p = 0.0003) and cardiovascular deaths (HR 1.61, 95% CI 1.11–2.38; p = 0.01) were higher in the “underdosed” group. Compared with recommended 30 mg, the “overdosed” group had lower IS (HR 0.51, 95% CI 0.28–0.98; p = 0.04) and all-cause death (HR 0.74, 95% CI 0.55–0.98; p = 0.03) without higher MB (HR 0.74, 95% CI 0.46–1.22; p = 0.2). In conclusion: non-recommended dosing was infrequent, but more common near dose-reduction thresholds. “Underdosing” was not associated with better clinical outcomes. The “overdosed” group had lower IS and all-cause death without higher MB.
Finite Element Analysis of the Mechanical Performance of Non-Restorable Crownless Primary Molars Restored with Intracoronal Core-Supported Crowns: A Proposed Treatment Alternative to Extraction for Severe Early Childhood Caries
Authors: Thaungwilai Kunyawan , Tantilertanant Yanee , Singhatanadgit Weerachai , Singhatanadgid Pairod
Published: February 2023

Early childhood caries (ECC) involve extensive coronal tooth structure loss, and tooth reconstruction remains highly challenging. To fulfill preclinical assessment, the present study investigated the biomechanics of non-restorable crownless primary molars that were restored by stainless steel crowns (SSC) using different composite core build-up materials. Computer-aided design-integrated 3D finite element and modified Goodman fatigue analyses were performed to determine stress distribution, risk of failure, fatigue life and dentine–material interfacial strength for the restored crownless primary molars. A dual-cured resin composite (MultiCore Flow), a light-cured bulk-fill resin composite (Filtek Bulk Fill posterior), a resin-modified glass-ionomer cement (Fuji II LC) and a nano-filled resin-modified glass-ionomer cement (NRMGIC; Ketac N100) were used as core build-up composite materials in the simulated models. The finite element analysis showed that types of core build-up materials affected the maximum von Mises stress only in the core materials (p-value = 0.0339). NRMGIC demonstrated the lowest von Mises stresses and revealed the highest minimum safety factor. The weakest sites were along the central grooves regardless of type of material, and the ratio of shear bond strength to maximum shear stress at the core–dentine interface of the NRMGIC group was lowest among the tested composite cores. However, all groups provided lifetime longevity from the fatigue analysis. In conclusion, core build-up materials differentially influenced the von Mises stress (magnitude and distribution) and the safety factor in crownless primary molars restored with core-supported SSC. However, all materials and the remaining dentine of crownless primary molars provided lifetime longevity. The reconstruction by core-supported SSC, as an alternative to tooth extraction, may successfully restore non-restorable crownless primary molars without unfavorable failures throughout their lifespan. Further clinical studies are required to evaluate the clinical performance and suitability of this proposed method.
Clinical Advances in Kidney Failure: AKI
Authors: Awad Alaa S. , Abdel-Rahman Emaad M.
Published: February 2023

Kidney failure poses an enormous burden on patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, and society as a whole [...]
The Global, Regional, and National Uterine Cancer Burden Attributable to High BMI from 1990 to 2019: A Systematic Analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
Authors: Liu Jingchun , Wang Haoyu , Wang Zhi , Han Wuyue , Hong Li
Published: February 2023

Uterine cancer (UC) is the most common gynecologic malignancy, and high body mass index (BMI) is a poor prognostic factor for UC. However, the associated burden has not been fully assessed, which is crucial for women’s health management and the prevention and control of UC. Therefore, we utilized the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2019 to describe the global, regional, and national UC burden due to high BMI from 1990 to 2019. The data show that globally, women’s high BMI exposure is increasing annually, with most regions having higher rates of high BMI exposure than the global average. In 2019, 36,486 [95% uncertainty interval (UI): 25,131 to 49,165] UC deaths were attributed to high BMI globally, accounting for 39.81% (95% UI: 27.64 to 52.67) of all UC deaths. The age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and age-standardized disability-adjusted life years (DALY) rate (ASDR) for high BMI-associated UC remained stable globally from 1990 to 2019, with significant differences across regions. Higher ASDR and ASMR were found in higher socio-demographic index (SDI) regions, and lower SDI regions had the fastest estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) for both rates. Among all age groups, the fatal outcome of UC with high BMI occurs most frequently in women over 80 years old.
Application of Neuromuscular Blockers in Patients with ARDS in ICU: A Retrospective Study Based on the MIMIC-III Database
Authors: Pan Xiaojun , Liu Jiao , Zhang Sheng , Huang Sisi , Chen Limin , Shen Xuan , Chen Dechang
Published: February 2023

Background: Although neuromuscular blocker agents (NMBAs) are recommended by guidelines as a treatment for ARDS patients, the efficacy of NMBAs is still controversial. Our study aimed to investigate the association between cisatracurium infusion and the medium- and long-term outcomes of critically ill patients with moderate and severe ARDS. Methods: We performed a single-center, retrospective study of 485 critically ill adult patients with ARDS based on the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care III (MIMIC-III) database. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to match patients receiving NMBA administration with those not receiving NMBAs. The Cox proportional hazards model, Kaplan–Meier method, and subgroup analysis were used to evaluate the relationship between NMBA therapy and 28-day mortality. Results: A total of 485 moderate and severe patients with ARDS were reviewed and 86 pairs of patients were matched after PSM. NMBAs were not associated with reduced 28-day mortality (hazard ratio (HR) 1.44; 95% CI: 0.85~2.46; p = 0.20), 90-day mortality (HR = 1.49; 95% CI: 0.92~2.41; p = 0.10), 1-year mortality (HR = 1.34; 95% CI: 0.86~2.09; p = 0.20), or hospital mortality (HR = 1.34; 95% CI: 0.81~2.24; p = 0.30). However, NMBAs were associated with a prolonged duration of ventilation and the length of ICU stay. Conclusions: NMBAs were not associated with improved medium- and long-term survival and may result in some adverse clinical outcomes.
Ce-MBGs Loaded with Gentamicin: Characterization and In Vitro Evaluation
Authors: Fraulini Francesca , Raimondi Stefano , Candeliere Francesco , Ranieri Raffaella , Zambon Alfonso , Lusvardi Gigliola
Published: February 2023

Mesoporous Bioactive Glasses (MBGs) are biomaterials widely used in tissue engineering, particularly for hard tissue regeneration. One of the most frequent postoperative complications following a biomaterial surgical implant is a bacterial infection, which usually requires treatment by the systemic administration of drugs (e.g., antibiotics). In order to develop biomaterials with antibiotic properties, we investigated cerium-doped MBGs (Ce-MBGs) as in situ-controlled drug delivery systems (DDSs) of gentamicin (Gen), a wide spectrum antibiotic commonly employed against bacteria responsible of postoperative infections. Here we report the optimization of Gen loading on MBGs and the evaluation of the antibacterial properties and of retention of bioactivity and antioxidant properties of the resulting materials. The Gen loading (up to 7%) was found to be independent from cerium content, and the optimized Gen-loaded Ce-MBGs retain significant bioactivity and antioxidant properties. The antibacterial efficacy was verified up to 10 days of controlled release. These properties make Gen-loaded Ce-MBGs interesting candidates for simultaneous hard tissue regeneration and in situ antibiotic release.
Manufacturing Method for Large Cylindrical Worm Gear Set of ISO Type I on Universal CNC Machine Tools
Authors: Kawasaki Kazumasa , Tsuji Isamu
Published: February 2023

Large cylindrical worm gear set of ISO type I are manufactured using endmill tools on universal CNC machine tools. This manufacturing method requires neither special gear-generating machines nor special tools. The tooth flank forms of ISO type I cylindrical worm gears are involute helicoids as a standard. The targeted theoretical tooth flanks of the worm and the mating worm wheel are determined based on a tooth contact analysis (TCA) of such worm gear set. The cutting conditions of the worm are determined after the offset distance between the worm axis, and the central axis of the endmill tool is calculated. Afterward, the worm is manufactured by controlling only two axes on machine tools using a swarf milling method by use of the side of the endmill tool under the determined conditions. Meanwhile, the targeted theoretical tooth flanks of the mating worm wheel are modeled in 3-dimensional computer-aided design software, and the worm wheel is manufactured by a swarf milling method in a computer-aided manufacturing process. The comparison of experimental and analytical tooth contact patterns indicates almost no difference between the two tooth contact patterns.
Dynamic Response Analysis and Positioning Performance Evaluation of an Arctic Floating Platform Based on the Mooring-Assisted Dynamic Positioning System
Authors: Gu Yingbin , Chuang Zhenju , Zhang Aobo , Hu Ankang , Ji Shunying
Published: February 2023

The Arctic region is rich in oil and gas resources, but exploitation of resources there is always facing great challenge. Floating offshore platform is considered as a practical choice for oil and gas exploration in the Arctic deep water regions. One of the key technologies is positioning system design under harsh arctic sea loads. In this paper, a comprehensive design of the positioning system is investigated. A coupled numerical model composed of a mooring-assisted dynamic positioning system and the Kulluk platform is established. 16 different positioning combination forms are selected and investigated. The positioning capability of the coupled system is evaluated by analyzing the platform motion response under different environmental loads, including wave, level ice, and broken ice floes. Wave load is calculated using potential flow theory. Computation of ice load is compared with the finite element method (FEM) and discrete element method (DEM). The dynamic analysis of the mooring system is carried out by using the slender finite element method. The control system of dynamic positioning adopts proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control methodology. It is found that a better positioning system design can reduce the offset by more than 50%, including surge, sway and yaw motion. The results of this study will provide a good reference for the positioning system design of an arctic floating production platform.
“Coastal Dynamics, Hazards, and Numerical Modelling” in Memory of Prof. Byung Ho Choi
Authors: Lee Han Soo , Kim Kyeong Ok , Yuk Jin-Hee , Woo Seung-Buhm , Choi Youngjin
Published: February 2023

This Special Issue is dedicated to Prof Byung Ho Choi at SungKyunKwan University, South Korea [...]
Adaptive Backstepping Integral Sliding Mode Control for 5DOF Barge-Type OFWT under Output Constraint
Authors: Shah Syed Awais Ali , Gao Bingtuan , Ahmad Irfan , Ullah Hameed , Ahmed Nigar , Saeed Anjum
Published: February 2023

This article presents a new control solution for a dynamical model of a translational oscillator with a rotational actuator (TORA) based on multi-body dynamics for a barge-type offshore floating wind turbine (OFWT). TORA has been employed as an active structural control strategy. The solution of bounding the output movements of platform pitch and tower bending angle to a certain limit, along with mitigating the OFWT vibrations due to environmental disturbances and uncertainties, is presented in this novel control framework. This new control algorithm consists of a high-gain observer (HGO)-based adaptive backstepping integral sliding mode control (ISMC) and a barrier Lyapunov function (BLF). This guarantees satisfying the constraints on the states and effectively resolves the problem of the unavailability of the system states. The proposed control law based on the BLF has been compared with an adaptive backstepping ISMC to show the efficiency of the output-constraint control scheme. Through MATLAB/SIMULINK numerical simulations and their numeric error table, the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme has been examined. The results confirm the validity and efficiency of the proposed control approaches.
Improving Ship Detection Based on Decision Tree Classification for High Frequency Surface Wave Radar
Authors: Yang Zhiqing , Lai Yeping , Zhou Hao , Tian Yingwei , Qin Yao , Lv Zongwang
Published: February 2023

The traditional constant false alarm rate (CFAR) method, with fixed parameter settings and single noise background calculation, is unable to intelligently catch the current detection background. To improve the performance of the CFAR method, this paper proposes a target detection method based on decision tree classification (DTC) for high-frequency surface wave radar (HFSWR). Firstly, the training sample set and labels are obtained by means of a ship automatic identification system (AIS). Then, feature vector of range dimension, Doppler dimension and range-Doppler (RD) dimension is extracted by way of cell averaging, ordered statistics, censored mean and trimmed mean. Finally, DTC is used to recognize “true” and “false” targets in feature space. Experimental results show that, under the same number of detection targets, the DTC method is superior to traditional CFAR methods, and the accuracy of target detection can be increased by more than 5%.
Effect of Wind-Wave-Current Interaction on Oil Spill in the Yangtze River Estuary
Authors: Kuang Cuiping , Chen Jilong , Wang Jie , Qin Rufu , Fan Jiadong , Zou Qingping
Published: February 2023

Oil spills are major threat to marine ecosystem and have long-lasting effect on marine life and water quality. In this study, a two-dimension hydrodynamic and oil spill transport model of the Yangtze River Estuary is established based on MIKE21 with a special attention to wind-wave-current interaction (WWCI). The model agrees well with the observed data on water level, current velocity, and the real oil spill event during Typhoon Fongwong. This study is mainly focused on the oil particle trajectory and spread. The model results show: (1) when the oil spill occurs during a typhoon period, the oil film can rapidly deposit under high WWCI, decreasing the swept area to about 20% compared with the normal weather condition; (2) strong current and large wave enlarge the oil film coverage whereas high wind speeds cause the oil particles to deposit in the shallow water area; and (3) the oil particles move farther and the swept area is far greater under the winter wind than under the summer wind, and the two times of the winter wind show the greatest effect on the oil spill. This study considers the drift, dispersion, evaporation, and emulsification of oil during the moving period under different wind, wave and current conditions, providing a good guidance for the oil spill prevention and mitigation in other estuaries.
The Impact of Different Bow Shapes on Large Yacht Comfort
Authors: Begović Ermina , Della Valentina Enrico , Mauro Francesco , Nabergoj Radoslav , Rinauro Barbara
Published: February 2023

The importance of comfort during transfer and stationing becomes a key performance parameter for large yacht design, on the same level as propulsive issues. Such a matter extends questions in terms of form and service demand to the motion behaviour of the unit in waves. Relevant studies refer to outdated hull forms not specific to modern large yachts. In this study, five hull forms with different bow concepts represent the most common design solutions for yachts at constant draught and displacement. The preliminary ranking on the effect of alternative bows on comfort requires the definition of internationally accepted comfort standards. Here, the AWI 22834 guidelines for large yachts provide the service and environmental conditions and criteria for the comfort analysis, being the only reference specific to yachts. The calculations employ a strip-theory-based numerical model to provide results of easy understanding for designers during the early design stage. The obtained ranking among the design solutions on a reference large yacht favours the option nested with a bulb, contradicting the expectations in favour of a vertical bow concept. The discussion and conclusions provide a way forward for additional analyses and investigations aimed at proposing suitable multicriterial design guidelines for large yachts. However, the results also show the unsuitability of AWI environmental and encounter conditions for hull form ranking.
Mesh Optimization for the Acoustic Parabolic Equation
Authors: Lytaev Mikhail
Published: February 2023

This work is devoted to increasing the computational efficiency of numerical methods for the one-way Helmholtz Equation (higher-order parabolic equation) in a heterogeneous underwater environment. The finite-difference rational Padé approximation of the propagation operator is considered, whose artificial computational parameters are the grid cell sizes and reference sound speed. The relationship between the parameters of the propagation medium and the artificial computational parameters is established. An optimized method for automatic determination of the artificial computational parameters is proposed. The optimization method makes it possible to account for any propagation angle and arbitrary variations in refractive index. The numerical simulation results confirm the adequacy and efficiency of the proposed approach. Automating the selection process of the computational parameters makes it possible to eliminate human errors and avoid excessive consumption of computational resources.
Valuing the Natural Capital of Sea Areas Based on Emergy Analysis
Authors: Ye Guanqiong , Sun Teng , Ding Jieqiong , Wei Fangyi , Chen Chong , Toh Taichong
Published: February 2023

Marine natural capital is an important component of natural capital yields goods and service flows benefiting the human being. The emergy analysis method allows one to account for mass, energy and money flows in an ecosystem, providing technical support for assessing its broader value regarding our economic dependence. Thus, we used this method to evaluate the natural capital of the Zhoushan archipelago sea area from 2011 to 2016 and proposed a formula to estimate the marine organism’s transformity. The average total emergy of our study area was 6.93 × 1022 sej and emdollar was about 9.20 billion yuan, which is equivalent to 9.3% of the average regional GDP of 98.5 billion during the same period. The Zhoushan archipelago sea area has high emergy density (ED) and low emergy self-sufficiency ratio (ESR), which shows low input–output efficiency for local use. In addition, the high purchased emergy (PR), high emergy exchange ratio (EER) and low renewable resources emergy ratio (%R) imply an increasing dependence on the outside social and economic inputs. Overall, Zhoushan sea area was in an early but steady state of development. The results can serve as a benchmark for policy making and implementation to achieve local sustainable development. As a tool for emergy-based sea area capital assessment, the model is of great significance for quantifying the ecosystem service value and accounting for marine/land natural capital value.
Analysis of Interaction between Interior and Exterior Wall Corrosion Defects
Authors: Wang Zhanhui , Long Mengzhao , Li Xiaojun , Zhang Zhifang
Published: February 2023

With the increase in oil and gas pipe mileage, various corrosion defects inevitably occur, so the mechanisms and the applicability of the interaction corrosion defects are investigated. The ANSYS Workbench software is used to study the three double defect pipe models based on the exterior wall, the interior wall, and the interior and exterior wall. First, the distribution of the stress nephogram is investigated. Second, the failure pressure is obtained through the load step based on the variety of the failure pressure. Finally, the critical distance formula of the different types of double defect pipe models is fitted using MATLAB software, and its applicability and accuracy are verified. The results show that the equivalent stress is divided into two areas; with increasing defect depth and defect length, the critical distance increases and the growth rate increases; by fitting the critical distance formula of the three double defect pipe models, the multiple function formula of defect depth and defect length under different defect location distribution is obtained, with high accuracy. The critical distance ratio is introduced to compare 150 sets of data of the 3 models for conservative calculation; the three models perform well in the critical distance ratio and the double defect pipe model based on the exterior wall is the most conservative.
Warship Mission Reliability Modeling and Simulation from the Perspective of Equipment Support Resource
Authors: Wen Haolin , Di Peng , Chen Tong
Published: February 2023

To address the complex role of equipment support resource allocation on mission reliability during warship missions, this study establishes a warship mission reliability simulation system by using agent-based modeling to simulate warship task flow, equipment reliability structures, fault rules, and equipment support resource allocation schemes. The simulation system has the characteristics of multielement, modular, flexible configuration and easy operation. The key metrics relevant to different task conditions, such as the mission reliability of multistage and multistate systems, and the number of recommended allocations of equipment support resources, can be calculated by the system. In addition, sensitivity analyses of task parameters, equipment reliability structure, and the number of spare parts is carried out, and the effects on task reliability are discussed. The influencing factors considered in the modeling and calculation of mission reliability are expanded in this study, which can provide technical support for the optimal allocation of shipboard equipment support resources during the use phase of a warship, and the supportability design of warship equipment during the development phase.
Offshore, Unmanned Auto-Leveling Sea-Surface Drifting Platform with Compact Size
Authors: Mo Zonglai , Li Kexiang , Xie Kefeng , Li Jun , Li Yanjun
Published: February 2023

This paper proposes an offshore, unmanned auto-leveling sea-surface drifting platform, with a compact size of 0.7 m in diameter, used for obtaining air-sea interface environmental parameters. The platform was designed based on the parallel mechanism with limited degrees of freedom. The mechanical structure, control system hardware, and software of the principal prototype are introduced. A ground-based device was developed to simulate wave disturbance, based on which the static and dynamic simulation experiments were carried out. Experimental results show that the auto-leveling system can achieve real-time leveling against the angle deviation induced by waves, with a leveling accuracy of 0.2° in a simulated wave with an angle of 12°, which meets the requirements of observation equipment.
Trajectory Tracking Nonlinear Controller for Underactuated Underwater Vehicles Based on Velocity Transformation
Authors: Herman Przemyslaw
Published: February 2023

This paper proposes an algorithm that performs the task of tracking the desired trajectory for underactuated marine vehicles (primarily underwater) that move horizontally. The control scheme, which takes into account model inaccuracies and external disturbances, was designed using the quantities obtained after the transformation of the dynamic equations of motion resulting from the decomposition of the inertia matrix. This, in turn, led to the equation of dynamics with a diagonal inertia matrix. A specific feature of the offered controller is its dual role. It not only allows tracking the desired trajectory, but at the same time, makes it possible to estimate the impact of dynamic couplings when the vehicle is in motion. Such an approach to the tracking task is important at the initial design stage when the choice of the control algorithm has not yet been decided and experimental tests have not been performed. This is feasible because the new variables after the velocity transformation include not only vehicle parameters, but also actual velocities and forces. Therefore, it is also possible to track the original variables. The theoretical results were followed up with simulation tests conducted on a model with three degrees of freedom for two underwater vehicles.
Satellite-Based Analysis of Surface Upwelling in the Sea Adjacent to Zhoushan Islands in China
Authors: Xiao Teng , Yin Wenbin , Feng Jiajun , Liu Yingying , Wong Kapo , Tsou Jin Yeu , Zhang Yuanzhi
Published: February 2023

The fish catch in natural upwelling areas, which accounts for only 0.1% of the ocean surface, accounts for more than 40% of the world’s catch. The Zhoushan fishery, which is the largest fishery in China, is mainly formed by a coastal upwelling that features a low temperature. The upwelling in the study area (29.5–31.5° N, 121.5–123.5° E) is a vital factor affecting the formation of the Zhoushan fishery, and the primary productivity and low temperature that are brought by the rising water are important features of the upwelling. This study used global real-time high-resolution multivariate fused satellite (OSTIA) daily sea surface temperature (SST) data developed by the United Kingdom Meteorological Office that were collected from 1981 to 2020 to explore the spatial and temporal variation of the characteristics of the upwelling phenomenon in the study area. The data were processed by a temperature gradient-based upwelling edge detection algorithm to extract information on the central location of the upwelling, the location clusters in the core area, and the intensity index. The quantities of center and core area clusters were counted for each pixel point, and their corresponding probability values were calculated. The results of the spatial and temporal variation of the characteristics of the upwelling show that the upwelling in the study area was generated in April of each year, increased in intensity, and peaked in August, furthermore, the southern part of the upwelling dissipated in September. The region’s upwelling is spatially oblique and elliptical, with its long axis following the northeast and extending as far as the mouth of the Yangtze River. Its central location and core area were relatively stably existing in Ma’an Archipelago and Zhongjieshan Islands, which was consistent with the location of the two marine pastures in Zhoushan. According to our findings, locations with higher probability values in the upwelling center and core area, where upwelling occurs frequently, are usually accompanied by higher productivity and offer the potential to develop fishing grounds. The insights that were drawn from the study observations can, therefore, provide some reference for future artificial upwelling site selection.
Research on a DC–DC Converter and Its Advanced Control Strategy Applied to the Integrated Energy System of Marine Breeding Platforms
Authors: Chen Hongxing , Lin Weiming , He Wei
Published: February 2023

The deep-sea aquaculture industry will become one of the important pillars of the future marine economy. However, the application of clean energy in the new scenario needs to be strengthened for platform operation. For this kind of renewable-energy distributed-generation system, an energy storage system is essential. A bidirectional DC–DC converter is essential for distributed power generation systems. It connects a variety of renewable energy sources with energy storage cells. A high-gain bidirectional Cuk circuit with zero ripple is proposed in the paper. It is characterized by a simple structure, zero ripple, low voltage stress of semiconductor power devices, and high voltage gain. A passivity-based control with linear active disturbance rejection is proposed to solve the problems of the large steady-state error. The zero steady-state error, strong robustness, and whole-range stability have been obtained for the proposed control strategy. Finally, a simulation was carried out. A 100 W, 48 V/400 V prototype was built to verify the validity of the theoretical analysis for the proposed circuit. The improved passivity-based control strategy was verified to solve the contradiction between rapidity and overshoot. It can be realized to improve the dynamic performance of the proposed converter and achieve robust control.
Vaccination of Elms against Dutch Elm Disease—Are the Associated Epiphytes and Endophytes Affected?
Authors: Witzell Johanna , Sunnerstam Caroline , Hansson Tobias
Published: February 2023

Dutch elm disease (DED) is causing extensive mortality of ecologically and culturally valuable elm trees (Ulmus spp.). Treatment of elms with the biological vaccine Dutch Trig® has been found to provide effective protection against DED by stimulating the defensive mechanisms of the trees. We hypothesized that the same mechanisms could also affect non-target organisms associated with elms. We explored the possible effects of vaccination on epiphytes (mainly lichens) and fungal endophytes living in the bark and young xylem of treated elms. Epiphyte cover percentage was assessed visually using a grid placed on the trunks, and a culture-based approach was used to study endophytes. Epiphyte cover was lower on the trunks of vaccinated trees as compared with unvaccinated trees, but the difference was not statistically significant. The presence of slow-growing and uncommon endophytes seemed to be reduced in continuously vaccinated elms; however, the highest endophyte diversity was found in elms four years after cessation of the vaccination treatments. Our findings suggest that although vaccination may shape epiphyte and endophyte communities in elms, its impacts are not straightforward. More detailed studies are, therefore, needed to inform the sustainable application of the vaccine as a part of the integrated management of DED.
Simultaneous Heavy Metal-Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Removal by Native Tunisian Fungal Species
Authors: Hkiri Neila , Olicón-Hernández Dario R. , Pozo Clementina , Chouchani Chedly , Asses Nedra , Aranda Elisabet
Published: February 2023

Multi-contamination by organic pollutants and toxic metals is common in anthropogenic and industrial environments. In this study, the five fungal strains Chaetomium jodhpurense (MH667651.1), Chaetomium maderasense (MH665977.1), Paraconiothyrium variabile (MH667653.1), Emmia lacerata, and Phoma betae (MH667655.1), previously isolated in Tunisia, were investigated for the simultaneous removal and detoxification of phenanthrene (PHE) and benzo[a]anthracene (BAA), as well as heavy metals (HMs) (Cu, Zn, Pb and Ag) in Kirk’s media. The removal was analysed using HPLC, ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled to a QToF mass spectrometer, transmission electron microscopy, and toxicology was assessed using phytotoxicity (Lepidium sativum seeds) and Microtox® (Allivibrio fisherii) assays. The PHE and BAA degradation rates, in free HMs cultures, reached 78.8% and 70.7%, respectively. However, the addition of HMs considerably affected the BAA degradation rate. The highest degradation rates were associated with the significant production of manganese-peroxidase, lignin peroxidase, and unspecific peroxygenase. The Zn and Cu removal efficacy was considerably higher with live cells than dead cells. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the involvement of both bioaccumulation and biosorption processes in fungal HM removal. The environmental toxicological assays proved that simultaneous PAH and HM removal was accompanied by detoxification. The metabolites produced during co-treatment were not toxic for plant tissues, and the acute toxicity was reduced. The obtained results indicate that the tested fungi can be applied in the remediation of sites simultaneously contaminated with PAHs and HMs.
Development of Marker Recycling Systems for Sequential Genetic Manipulation in Marine-Derived Fungi Spiromastix sp. SCSIO F190 and Aspergillus sp. SCSIO SX7S7
Authors: Chen Yingying , Yang Jiafan , Cai Cunlei , Shi Junjie , Song Yongxiang , Ma Junying , Ju Jianhua
Published: February 2023

Marine-derived fungi are emerging as prolific workhorses of structurally novel natural products (NPs) with diverse bioactivities. However, the limitation of available selection markers hampers the exploration of cryptic NPs. Recyclable markers are therefore valuable assets in genetic engineering programs for awaking silent SM clusters. Here, both pyrG and amdS-based recyclable marker cassettes were established and successfully applied in marine-derived fungi Aspergillus sp. SCSIO SX7S7 and Spiromastix sp. SCSIO F190, respectively. Using pyrG recyclable marker, a markerless 7S7-∆depH strain with a simplified HPLC background was built by inactivating a polyketide synthase (PKS) gene depH and looping out the pyrG recyclable marker after depH deletion. Meanwhile, an amdS recyclable marker system was also developed to help strains that are difficult to use pyrG marker. By employing the amdS marker, a backbone gene spm11 responsible for one major product of Spiromastix sp. SCSIO F190 was inactivated, and the amdS marker was excised after using, generating a relatively clean F190-∆spm11 strain for further activation of novel NPs. The collection of two different recycle markers will guarantee flexible application in marine-derived fungi with different genetic backgrounds, enabling the exploitation of novel structures in various fungi species with different genome mining strategies.
In Silico Characterization of the Secretome of the Fungal Pathogen Thielaviopsis punctulata, the Causal Agent of Date Palm Black Scorch Disease
Authors: Chellappan Biju Vadakkemukadiyil , El-Ganainy Sherif Mohamed , Alrajeh Hind Salih , Al-Sheikh Hashem
Published: February 2023

The black scorch disease of date palm caused by Thielaviopsis punctulata is a serious threat to the cultivation and productivity of date palm in Arabian Peninsula. The virulence factors that contribute to pathogenicity of T. punctulata have not been identified yet. In the present study, using bioinformatics approach, secretory proteins of T. punctulata were identified and functionally characterized. A total of 197 putative secretory proteins were identified, of which 74 were identified as enzymes for carbohydrate degradation (CAZymes), 25 were proteases, and 47 were predicted as putative effectors. Within the CAZymes, 50 cell wall-degrading enzymes, potentially to degrade cell wall components such as cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and pectin, were identified. Of the 47 putative effectors, 34 possessed at least one functional domain. The secretome of T. punctulata was compared to the predicted secretome of five closely related species (T. musarum, T. ethacetica, T. euricoi, T. cerberus, and T. populi) and identified species specific CAZymes and putative effector genes in T. punctulata, providing a valuable resource for the research aimed at understanding the molecular mechanism underlying the pathogenicity of T. punctulata on Date palm.
Current Knowledge and Challenges of Particle Size Measurements of Mainstream E-Cigarette Aerosols and Their Implication on Respiratory Dosimetry
Authors: Jiang Huanhuan , Gao Xiang , Gao Yong , Liu Yatao
Published: February 2023

The E-cigarette has been promoted as an alternative nicotine delivery device with potentially fewer toxicant emissions. The objective of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on the particle size distribution (PSD) of e-cigarette emissions and to analyze the knowledge gaps between existing particle size measurements and the vision toward harm reduction from e-cigarette use. Here, we focus on firstly describing the physical parameters used to characterize PSD, followed by comparing particle size measurement approaches, investigating the factors that impact the PSD of e-cigarette mainstream aerosols, and conclude by linking size distribution to the respiratory dosimetry by demonstrating the modeling results of particle deposition in the respiratory tract. This review calls for a harmonized testing protocol to conduct inter-comparisons and further understand e-cigarette particle sizes. Among the influencing factors investigated, puff topography, operation power, flavorings, PG/VG ratio, and nicotine strength impose a substantial impact on the PSD, but the underlying mechanisms have not yet been fully investigated. The effects brought by the type of device refill and nicotine are yet inconclusive due to lack of evidence. Coil aging has no significant impact on the PSD of e-cigarette aerosols within the coil lifetime. Lastly, while computational models of particle deposition have been adopted to profile the deposition of e-cigarette mainstream emissions, existing models have limited applicability and generality when dealing with e-cigarette aerosols that have high volatility and hygroscopicity, which can dynamically evaporate or grow during the transport process. Additionally, the size-dependent chemical composition (e.g., nicotine and harmful and potentially harmful constituents) of e-cigarette aerosols is unknown, impeding the understanding of the health effects of e-cigarette use. Therefore, it is essential for future studies to bridge these knowledge gaps and unveil the mechanisms determining PSD and respiratory deposition.
News Personalization and Public Service Media: The Audience Perspective in Three European Countries
Authors: Sehl Annika , Eder Maximilian
Published: February 2023

By shining a light on the previously neglected combination of public service media (PSM) and the audience perspective, this paper adds to the debate on (algorithmic) news personalization. While news personalization may offer new opportunities, it can clearly also conflict with the PSM mission of universality of access, reach, and content. This empirical study compares the audience perspective on the news personalization of users and non-users of public service news in Germany, France, and the UK. Overall, the findings of the online survey show that users of public service news in Germany and the UK—in comparison to non-users of these services—perceive more risks such as missing out on certain topics or viewpoints, place greater value on a shared public sphere, and more strongly prefer a news selection primarily made by professional news editors. In France, however, the differences between users and non-users of public service news are rarely significant, which is interpreted against the background of the different media systems and the role of PSM. The findings add to the understanding of what public service news audiences expect PSM organizations to provide while keeping the difficult balance between personalization and universality.
Higher-Order Aberrations of Topography-Guided LASIK and Wavefront-Optimized LASIK in High- and Low-Myopic Eyes: A Non-Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mai Elsa Lin-Chin , Chang Chao-Kai , Lee Chia-Yi , Lian Ie-Bin , Chao Chen-Cheng
Published: February 2023

We aimed to investigate high-order aberration (HOA) change between topography-guided (TG) and wavefront-optimized (WFO) laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) in patients with different degrees of myopia. A non-randomized clinical trial was conducted, in which 40 eyes of 20 patients aged 20–50 years old were included. Participants received TG-LASIK in one eye and WFO-LASIK on the alternate eye. Corneal topography and HOAs including coma, trefoil, spherical aberration (SA), and contrast sensitivity (CS) were collected. Moreover, a quality of vision (QoV) questionnaire was completed by each participant. Non-parametric tests were used to infer the difference in HOAs and CS between the TG-LASIK and WFO-LASIK groups, and subgroup analyses stratified by myopia degree were performed. The high-myopia patients with TG-LASIK showed more coma and SA compared to low-myopia individuals (all 95% CI lower limits > 0), and subjects who received WFO-LASIK exhibited more SA in high-myopia status (both 95% CI lower limits > 0). The TG-LASIK group showed lower postoperative trefoil compared to the WFO-LASIK group in the high-myopia population (mean difference: −0.1267, 95% CI: −0.24 to −0.01). The TG-LASIK group yielded less surgically induced haze, better clarity at night, and better total quality scores (all p < 0.05). In conclusion, TG-LASIK might yield less postoperative trefoil in high-myopia patients and higher QoV in the general population compared to the WFO-LASIK procedure.