bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Design of the Substructure of a 10 MW Floating Offshore Wind Turbine System Using Dominant Load Parameters
Authors: Park Sungjun , Choung Joonmo
Published: May 2023

Fully coupled integrated load analyses (ILAs) to evaluate not only the load response but also the structural integrity are required to design a floating offshore wind turbine, since there has been no firmly established approach for obtaining the structural responses of a FOWT substructure in the time domain. This study aimed to explore if a direct strength analysis (DSA) technique that has been widely used for ships and offshore structures can adequately evaluate the FOWT substructure. In this study, acceleration and nacelle thrust were used for the dominant load parameters for DSA. The turbine thrust corresponding to the 50-year return period was taken from the literature. The acceleration response amplitude operator (RAO) was obtained through frequency response hydrodynamic analysis. The short-term sea states defined by the wave scatter diagram (WSD) of the expected installation area was represented by the JONSWAP wave spectrum. To account for the multi-directionality of the short-crested waves, the 0th order moments of the wave spectrum were corrected. The probabilities of each short-term sea state and each wave incidence angle were applied to derive the long-term acceleration for each return period. DSA cases were generated by combining the long-term acceleration and nacelle thrust to maximize the forces in the surge, sway, and heave directions. Linear spring elements were placed under the three outer columns of the substructure to provide soft constraints for hive, roll, and pitch motions. Nonlinear spring elements with initial tension were placed on the three fairlead chain stoppers (FCSs) to simulate the station-keeping ability of the mooring lines; they provided initial tension in the slacked position and an increased tension in the taut position. The structural strength evaluation of the coarse mesh finite element model with an element size same as the stiffener spacing showed that high stresses exceeding the permissible stresses occurred in the unstable members of the substructure. The high stress areas were re-evaluated using a fine mesh finite element model with an element size of 50 mm × 50 mm. The scope of structural reinforcement was identified from the fine mesh analyses. It was found that the DSA can be properly utilized for the substructure strength assessment of a FOWT.
Improved UNet-Based Shoreline Detection Method in Real Time for Unmanned Surface Vehicle
Authors: Zhao Jiansen , Song Fengchuan , Gong Guobao , Wang Shengzheng
Published: May 2023

Accurate and real-time monitoring of the shoreline through cameras is an invaluable guarantee for the safety of near-shore navigation and berthing of unmanned surface vehicles; existing shoreline detection methods cannot meet both these requirements. Therefore, we propose an improved shoreline detection method to detect shorelines accurately and in real time. We define shoreline detection as the combination of water surface area segmentation and edge detection, the key to which is segmentation. To detect shorelines accurately and in real time, we propose an improved U-Net for water segmentation. This network is based on U-Net, using ResNet-34 as the backbone to enhance the feature extraction capability, with a concise decoder integrated attention mechanism to improve the processing speed while ensuring the accuracy of water surface segmentation. We also introduce transfer learning to improve training efficiency and solve the problem of insufficient data. When obtaining the segmentation result, the Laplace edge detection algorithm is applied to detect the shoreline. Experiments show that our network achieves 97.05% MIoU and 40 FPS with the fewest parameters, which is better than mainstream segmentation networks, and also demonstrate that our shoreline detection method can effectively detect shorelines in real time in various environments.
An Accurate Detection Model of Takifugu rubripes Using an Improved YOLO-V7 Network
Authors: Zhou Siyi , Cai Kewei , Feng Yanhong , Tang Xiaomeng , Pang Hongshuai , He Jiaqi , Shi Xiang
Published: May 2023

In aquaculture, the accurate recognition of fish underwater has outstanding academic value and economic benefits for scientifically guiding aquaculture production, which assists in the analysis of aquaculture programs and studies of fish behavior. However, the underwater environment is complex and affected by lighting, water quality, and the mutual obscuration of fish bodies. Therefore, underwater fish images are not very clear, which restricts the recognition accuracy of underwater targets. This paper proposes an improved YOLO-V7 model for the identification of Takifugu rubripes. Its specific implementation methods are as follows: (1) The feature extraction capability of the original network is improved by adding a sizeable convolutional kernel model into the backbone network. (2) Through ameliorating the original detection head, the information flow forms a cascade effect to effectively solve the multi-scale problems and inadequate information extraction of small targets. (3) Finally, this paper appropriately prunes the network to reduce the total computation of the model; meanwhile, it ensures the precision of the detection. The experimental results show that the detection accuracy of the improved YOLO-V7 model is better than that of the original. The average precision improved from 87.79% to 92.86% (when the intersection over union was 0.5), with an increase of 5.07%. Additionally, the amount of computation was reduced by approximately 35%. This shows that the detection precision of the proposed network model was higher than that for the original model, which can provide a reference for the intelligent aquaculture of fishes.
Identification, Culture Characteristics and Whole-Genome Analysis of Pestalotiopsis neglecta Causing Black Spot Blight of Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica
Authors: Yang Jing , Wang Shuren , Zhang Yundi , Chen Yunze , Zhou Heying , Zhang Guocai
Published: May 2023

Black spot needle blight is a serious conifer disease of Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica occurring in Northeast China, which is usually caused by the plant pathogenic fungus Pestalotiopsis neglecta. From the diseased pine needles collected in Honghuaerji, the P. neglecta strain YJ-3 was isolated and identified as the phytopathogen, and its culture characteristics were studied. Then, we generated a highly contiguous 48.36-Mbp genome assembly (N50 = 6.62 Mbp) of the P. neglecta strain YJ-3 by combining the PacBio RS II Single Molecule Real Time (SMRT) and Illumina HiSeq X Ten sequencing platforms. The results showed that a total of 13,667 protein-coding genes were predicted and annotated using multiple bioinformatics databases. The genome assembly and annotation resource reported here will be useful for the study of fungal infection mechanisms and pathogen–host interaction.
Effect of Microbial Consortium Constructed with Lignolytic Ascomycetes Fungi on Degradation of Rice Stubble
Authors: Sruthy Kallinkal Sobha , Shukla Livleen , Kundu Aditi , Singh Sandeep Kumar , Abdulrahman Alodaini Hissah , Hatamleh Ashraf Atef , Santoyo Gustavo , Kumar Ajay
Published: May 2023

Microbial degradation is an effective, eco-friendly and sustainable approach for management of the rice residue. After harvesting a rice crop, removal of stubble from the ground is a challenging task, that forces the farmers to burn the residue in-situ. Therefore, accelerated degradation using an eco-friendly alternative is a necessity. White rot fungi are the most explored group of microbes for accelerated degradation of lignin but they are very slow in growth. The present investigation focuses on degradation of rice stubble using a fungal consortium constructed with highly sporulating ascomycetes fungi, namely, Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus fumigatus and Alternaria spp. All three species were successful at colonizing the rice stubble. Periodical HPLC analysis of rice stubble alkali extracts revealed that incubation with ligninolytic consortium released various lignin degradation products such as vanillin, vanillic acid, coniferyl alcohol, syringic acid and ferulic acid. The efficiency of the consortium was further studied at different dosages on paddy straw. Maximum lignin degradation was observed when the consortium was applied at 15% volume by weight of rice stubble. Maximum activity of different lignolytic enzymes such as lignin peroxidase, laccase and total phenols was also found with the same treatment. FTIR analysis also supported the observed results. Hence, the presently developed consortium for degrading rice stubble was found to be effective in both laboratory and field conditions. The developed consortium or its oxidative enzymes can be used alone or combined with other commercial cellulolytic consortia to manage the accumulating rice stubble effectively.
Mutations in the Second Alternative Oxidase Gene: A New Approach to Group Aspergillus niger Strains
Authors: Flipphi Michel , Márton Alexandra , Bíró Vivien , Ág Norbert , Sándor Erzsébet , Fekete Erzsébet , Karaffa Levente
Published: May 2023

Alternative oxidase is a terminal oxidase in the branched mitochondrial electron transport chain of most fungi including Aspergillus niger (subgenus Circumdati, section Nigri). A second, paralogous aox gene (aoxB) is extant in some A. niger isolates but also present in two divergent species of the subgenus Nidulantes—A. calidoustus and A. implicatus—as well as in Penicillium swiecickii. Black aspergilli are cosmopolitan opportunistic fungi that can cause diverse mycoses and acute aspergillosis in immunocompromised individuals. Amongst the approximately 75 genome-sequenced A. niger strains, aoxB features considerable sequence variation. Five mutations were identified that rationally affect transcription or function or terminally modify the gene product. One mutant allele that occurs in CBS 513.88 and A. niger neotype strain CBS 554.65 involves a chromosomal deletion that removes exon 1 and intron 1 from aoxB. Another aoxB allele results from retrotransposon integration. Three other alleles result from point mutations: a missense mutation of the start codon, a frameshift, and a nonsense mutation. A. niger strain ATCC 1015 has a full-length aoxB gene. The A. niger sensu stricto complex can thus be subdivided into six taxa according to extant aoxB allele, which may facilitate rapid and accurate identification of individual species
Blood Pressure Correlates with Serum Leptin and Body Mass Index in Overweight Male Saudi Students
Authors: Alaamri Shalan , Serafi Abdulhalim S. , Hussain Zahir , Alrooqi Munira M. , Bafail Mohammed A. , Sohail Sumera
Published: May 2023

The precise association of serum leptin (Lep) with the body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure (BP) is not well known for understanding their involvement in health and disease. Hence, the present study was conducted to investigate the association of BP, BMI and serum Lep levels in young normal-weight (NW) and overweight (OW) male Saudi students. The NW (n: 198) and OW (n: 192) male subjects in the age range of 18–20 years were consulted. The BP was measured with a mercury sphygmomanometer. Leptin Human ELISA Kits were employed for the determination of the serum Lep levels. The mean ± SD values of BMI (kg/m2), Lep (ng/mL), systolic BP (SBP; mmHg), and diastolic BP (DBP; mmHg) all showed significant differences for young OW vs. NW subjects as: 27.52 ± 1.42 vs. 21.49 ± 2.03; 10.70 ± 4.67 vs. 4.68 ± 1.91; 121.37 ± 2.59 vs. 118.51 ± 1.54 and 81.44 ± 1.97 vs. 78.79 ± 1.44, respectively. All associations (among BMI, Lep, SBP and DBP) showed a positive linear and significant correlation, except the nonsignificant correlation of BMI and SBP for the NW group. Other variables showing significant variation for NW vs. OW subjects were: interleukin-6, high sensitivity C-reactive protein, apelin (APLN) and resistin. Serum APLN correlated significantly with Lep, BMI, SBP and DBP in lower and higher levels of BMI, with considerable progressive patterns in both the NW and OW groups and subgroups. The present study in young Saudi male students presents significant variations for BP and serum leptin levels, and a significant positive linear association among serum leptin, BMI and BP.
Precision Medicine in Fatty Liver Disease/Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Valenzuela-Vallejo Laura , Sanoudou Despina , Mantzoros Christos S.
Published: May 2023

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver disease, and is related to fatal and non-fatal liver, metabolic, and cardiovascular complications. Its non-invasive diagnosis and effective treatment remain an unmet clinical need. NAFLD is a heterogeneous disease that is most commonly present in the context of metabolic syndrome and obesity, but not uncommonly, may also be present without metabolic abnormalities and in subjects with normal body mass index. Therefore, a more specific pathophysiology-based subcategorization of fatty liver disease (FLD) is needed to better understand, diagnose, and treat patients with FLD. A precision medicine approach for FLD is expected to improve patient care, decrease long-term disease outcomes, and develop better-targeted, more effective treatments. We present herein a precision medicine approach for FLD based on our recently proposed subcategorization, which includes the metabolic-associated FLD (MAFLD) (i.e., obesity-associated FLD (OAFLD), sarcopenia-associated FLD (SAFLD, and lipodystrophy-associated FLD (LAFLD)), genetics-associated FLD (GAFLD), FLD of multiple/unknown causes (XAFLD), and combined causes of FLD (CAFLD) as well as advanced stage fibrotic FLD (FAFLD) and end-stage FLD (ESFLD) subcategories. These and other related advances, as a whole, are expected to enable not only improved patient care, quality of life, and long-term disease outcomes, but also a considerable reduction in healthcare system costs associated with FLD, along with more options for better-targeted, more effective treatments in the near future.
Endoscopic Transpapillary Stenting for Malignant Hilar Biliary Stricture: Side-by-Side Placement versus Partial Stent-in-Stent Placement
Authors: Takahashi Koji , Ohyama Hiroshi , Takiguchi Yuichi , Kan Motoyasu , Ouchi Mayu , Nagashima Hiroki , Ohno Izumi , Kato Naoya
Published: May 2023

Background/Aims: Endoscopic uncovered metal stent (UMS) placement has been widely performed for unresectable hilar malignant biliary stricture (UHMBS). Two stenting methods are used for the two bile duct branches: side-by-side placement (SBS) and partial stent-in-stent placement (PSIS). However, it remains controversial whether SBS or PSIS is superior. This study aimed to compare SBS and PSIS in UHMBS cases with UMS placement in two branches of the IHD. Methods: This retrospective study included 89 cases of UHMBS treated with UMS placement through the SBS or PSIS technique using endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography at our institution. Patients were divided into two groups, SBS (n = 64) and PSIS (n = 25), and compared. Results: Clinical success was achieved in 79.7% and 80.0% in the SBS and PSIS groups, respectively (p = 0.97). The adverse event rate was 20.3% and 12.0% in the SBS and PSIS groups, respectively (p = 0.36). The recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO) rate was 32.8% and 28.0% in the SBS and PSIS groups, respectively (p = 0.66). The median cumulative time to RBO was 224 and 178 days in the SBS and PSIS groups, respectively (p = 0.52). The median procedure time was 43 and 62 min in the SBS and PSIS groups, respectively, which was significantly longer in the PSIS group (p = 0.014). Conclusions: No significant differences were noted in the clinical success rate, adverse event rate, time to RBO, or overall survival between the SBS and PSIS groups, other than the significantly longer procedure time in the PSIS group.
Accuracy of Conventional and Digital Impressions for Full-Arch Implant-Supported Prostheses: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Drancourt Noemie , Auduc Chantal , Mouget Aymeric , Mouminoux Jean , Auroy Pascal , Veyrune Jean-Luc , El Osta Nada , Nicolas Emmanuel
Published: May 2023

Both conventional and digital impressions aim to record the spatial position of implants in the dental arches. However, there is still a lack of data to justify the use of intraoral scanning over conventional impressions for full-arch implant-supported prostheses. The objective of the in vitro study was to compare the trueness and precision of conventional and digital impressions obtained with four intra-oral scanners: Trios 4 from 3Shape®, Primescan from Dentsply Sirona®, CS3600 from Carestream® and i500 from Medit®. This study focused on the impression of an edentulous maxilla in which five implants were placed for implant-supported complete prosthesis. The digital models were superimposed on a digital reference model using dimensional control and metrology software. Angular and distance deviations from the digital reference model were calculated to assess trueness. Dispersion of the values around their mean for each impression was also calculated for precision. The mean distance deviation in absolute value and the direction of the distance deviation were smaller for conventional impressions (p-value < 0.001). The I-500 had the best results regarding angular measurements, followed by Trios 4 and CS3600 (p < 0.001). The conventional and I-500 digital impressions showed the lowest dispersion of values around the mean (p-value < 0.001). Within the limitations of our study, our results revealed that the conventional impression was more accurate than the digital impression, but further clinical studies are needed to confirm these findings.
China’s Urban and Rural Development Significantly Affects the Pattern of Human Appropriation of Net Primary Production
Authors: Zhang Tian , Peng Jian , Cao Xiaoshu
Published: May 2023

Increasing human activities have greatly influenced the ecosystem and the use of ecological resources, and the unbalanced urban–rural development in China (urban and rural areas being two major bases of human activities) has always been accompanied by heterogeneous ecological effects. Human appropriation of net primary production (HANPP) is an integrated indicator quantifying the human domination of productivity and harvest in the biosphere. Identifying the unbalanced constraints of urban and rural development on HANPP has become necessary for improving human–land relationships. This study analyzed the spatial distribution and regional differentiations of the HANPP in China in 2015 and investigated how HANPP and its components responded to unbalanced regional urban–rural development. The results show that the total amount of HANPP was 2.68 PgC and gradually decreased from the southeast to the northwest of China in 2015, representing 60.33% of the NPPpot. In addition, HANPPluc, harvest through cropland, livestock grazing, and forestry contributed 60.70%, 29.86%, 8.53%, and 0.91%, respectively, to the total HANPP, with HANPPluc playing the dominant role in 21 provinces. There was a significant differentiation (p < 0.05) in the spatial distribution of HANPP (gC/m2), HANPPharv (gC/m2), and HANPPluc (gC/m2), especially between the Huanyong Hu Line and the western–eastern part of China, fundamentally resulting from uneven regional development. In addition, biomass production–consumption decoupling existed in most regions in China, 17 provinces were identified as consumption type, and a universal positive correlation (p < 0.05) was identified between the production–consumption ratio of occupied biomass and HANPPharv (%HANPP). Different drive mechanisms were found between urban–rural development and HANPP, and each HANPP index was more likely to be affected by urban economy (UE), rural population (RP), and rural agricultural technology (RA) in China. The higher regional average nighttime light intensity, the proportion of the built-up area, and the urban road area corresponded with a large HANPPluc value. Conversely, HANPP would decrease as the proportion of urban green spaces increased. Furthermore, HANPP (%NPPpot) and HANPP (gC/m2) mostly depended on the rural development index, while HANPPluc and HANPPharv were mainly controlled by urban and rural development, respectively. Our findings help understand, first, how unbalanced regional development influences human-induced biomass occupation, the comprehensive urban ecological construction, and rural ecological restoration and, second, that the overall planning of urban–rural integration development must be strengthened to face greater ecological pressures in the future.
Multidimensional Role of Agrovoltaics in Era of EU Green Deal: Current Status and Analysis of Water–Energy–Food–Land Dependencies
Authors: Roxani Aikaterini , Zisos Athanasios , Sakki Georgia-Konstantina , Efstratiadis Andreas
Published: May 2023

The European Green Deal has set climate and energy targets for 2030 and the goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, while supporting energy independence and economic growth. Following these goals, and as expected, the transition to “green” renewable energy is growing and will be intensified, in the near future. One of the main pillars of this transition, particularly for Mediterranean countries, is solar photovoltaic (PV) power. However, this is the least land-efficient energy source, while it is also highly competitive in food production, since solar parks are often developed in former agricultural areas, thus resulting in the systematic reduction in arable lands. Therefore, in the context of PV energy planning, the protection and preservation of arable lands should be considered a key issue. The emerging technology of agrovoltaics offers a balanced solution for both agricultural and renewable energy development. The sustainable “symbiosis” of food and energy under common lands also supports the specific objective of the post-2020 Common Agricultural Policy, regarding the mitigation of and adaptation to the changing climate, as well as the highly uncertain socio-economic and geopolitical environment. The purpose of this study is twofold, i.e., (a) to identify the state of play of the technologies and energy efficiency measures of agrovoltaics, and (b) to present a comprehensive analysis of their interactions with the water–energy–food–land nexus. As a proof of concept, we consider the plain of Arta, which is a typical agricultural area of Greece, where we employ a parametric analysis to assess key features of agrovoltaic development with respect to energy vs. food production, as well as water saving, as result of reduced evapotranspiration.
Integrating Energy Systems Language and Emergy Approach to Simulate and Analyze the Energy Flow Process of Land Transfer
Authors: Fan Weiguo , Yao Wei , Chen Kehan
Published: May 2023

As an effective policy to revitalize rural land assets, land transfer is important to promote reforming rural land systems in poor areas. In this study, we integrated the energy systems language and emergy approach, quantified the energy flow process under the land transfer model, simulated the resource storage and energy flow state in the land transfer process, and finally compared and discussed the economic and ecological benefits of land transfer under different scenarios. The results show the following: (1) Economic benefits were significantly improved after the land transfer, and labor storage and infrastructure value were reduced. (2) Government investment enhanced the infrastructure value, and private investment led to a rapid reduction in labor storage. (3) Expanding apple orchards positively affected labor storage and infrastructure value and negatively influenced soil organic carbon storage and rural asset storage. (4) Land transfer behavior reduced the proportion of provisioning and supporting services and increased the proportion of regulating and cultural services. Overall, the research results are helpful for clarifying the complex mechanisms of the various components in the land transfer system and provide a scientific basis for the prediction and evaluation of land transfer in similar areas.
The Impact of Physical Activity on Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Glavaš Josipa , Rumboldt Mirjana , Karin Željka , Matković Roberta , Bilić-Kirin Vesna , Buljan Vesna , Obelić-Babok Tanja , Aljinović Jure
Published: May 2023

The prevalence of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is increasing, partly due to a lack of physical activity. In a cross-sectional study with 18,216 pupils (5th, 6th, and 8th grades) from four Croatian counties using the forward bend test (FBT; presumed AIS), the prevalence of AIS and its correlation with physical activity were evaluated. Pupils with presumed AIS were less physically active than their peers without scoliosis (p < 0.001). Abnormal FBT was more prevalent among girls than boys (8.3% vs. 3.2%). Boys were more physically active than girls (p < 0.001). Pupils with presumed AIS were less physically active than their peers without scoliosis (p < 0.001). A higher prevalence of presumed AIS was found among inactive or just recreationally active schoolchildren than among those engaged in organized sports (p = 0.001), girls especially. Pupils with presumed AIS were less active and had fewer weekly sports sessions than their peers without scoliosis (p < 0.001). Notably low prevalence of AIS was detected among pupils engaged in soccer (2.8%, p < 0.001), handball (3.4%, p = 0.002), and martial arts (3.9%, p = 0.006), while it was higher than expected in swimming (8.6%, p = 0.012), dancing (7.7%, p = 0.024), and volleyball (8.2%, p = 0.001) participants. No difference was detected for other sports. A positive correlation was found between time spent using handheld electronic devices and the prevalence of scoliosis (rs = 0.06, p < 0.01). This study confirms the increasing prevalence of AIS, particularly among less athletic girls. Further, prospective studies in this field are required to explain whether the higher prevalence of AIS in these sports is due to referral or other aspects.
Comparison of Adiponectin Levels in Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge-Eating Disorder, Obesity, Constitutional Thinness, and Healthy Controls: A Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tural Umit , Sparpana Allison , Sullivan Elizabeth , Iosifescu Dan V.
Published: May 2023

Adiponectin is a protein hormone that is produced and secreted primarily by adipose tissue. The levels of adiponectin in those with eating disorders, obesity, and healthy controls have been extensively studied. However, the general picture of the differences in adiponectin levels across the mentioned conditions is still unclear and fragmented. In this study, we pooled previous studies and performed a network meta-analysis to gain a global picture of comparisons of adiponectin levels across eating disorders, obesity, constitutional thinness, and healthy controls. Electronic databases were searched for anorexia nervosa, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder, binge-eating disorder, bulimia nervosa, healthy controls, night eating syndrome, obesity, and constitutional thinness in studies where adiponectin levels were measured. A total of 4262 participants from 50 published studies were included in the network meta-analysis. Adiponectin levels were significantly higher in participants with anorexia nervosa than in healthy controls (Hedges’ g = 0.701, p < 0.001). However, adiponectin levels in constitutionally thin participants were not significantly different from those of healthy controls (Hedges’ g = 0.470, p = 0.187). Obesity and binge-eating disorder were associated with significantly lower adiponectin levels compared to those of healthy controls (Hedges’ g = −0.852, p < 0.001 and Hedges’ g = −0.756, p = 0.024, respectively). The disorders characterized by excessive increases or decreases in BMI were associated with significant changes in adiponectin levels. These results suggest that adiponectin may be an important marker of severely disequilibrated homeostasis, especially in fat, glucose, and bone metabolisms. Nonetheless, an increase in adiponectin may not simply be associated with a decrease in BMI, as constitutional thinness is not associated with a significant increase in adiponectin.
Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Patient with Microsatellite Stability and Germline BRAC2 Mutation Shows a Complete Response to Olaparib in Combination with a PD-1 Inhibitor and Bevacizumab: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Song Minghan , Zeng Xianrong , Wu Qian , Huang Jie , Dong Jiayi , Shao Lijuan , Sun Zihao , Lin Yiguang , Chen Size
Published: May 2023

Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) has a poor prognosis. Combining chemotherapy with targeted therapy constitutes a basic form of mCRC treatment. Immune checkpoint inhibitors have been recommended for microsatellite instability mCRC, while most patients harboring microsatellite stability (MSS) or proficient mismatch repair (pMMR) are less responsive to immunotherapy. Combinational targeted therapy, including poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors, has been considered a promising way to reverse immunotherapy resistance; however, there is no clear and consistent conclusions can be drawn from the current research. Here, we report the case of a 59-year-old woman diagnosed with stage IVB MSS mCRC who received three courses of capecitabine/oxaliplatin chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab as a first-line treatment, resulting in an overall evaluation of stable disease (−25.7%). However, the occurrence of adverse events of intolerable grade 3 diarrhea and vomiting forced the cessation of this therapy. A germline BRCA2 mutation was found by next-generation sequencing, and the patient further received a combination of olaparib, tislelizumab, and bevacizumab. This treatment regime resulted in a complete metabolic response and a partial response (−50.9%) after 3 months of treatment. Mild asymptomatic interstitial pneumonia and manageable hematologic toxicity were two adverse events associated with this combination therapy. This study provides new insights into the combination of PARP inhibitors and immunotherapy for MSS mCRC patients carrying germline BRCA2 mutations.
The Tribological Performance of Frictional Pair of Gas–Liquid Miscible Backflow Pumping Seal in Oil–Air Environment
Authors: Li Shicong , Liao Haoran , Zhao Jun , Li Shuangxi
Published: May 2023

The gas–liquid miscible backflow pumping seal (G-LMBPHS) is a non-contact mechanical seal that is suitable for high-speed bearing chambers. However, the tribological properties and wear mechanisms of the frictional pair of G-LMBPHS in an oil–air environment have not yet been comprehensively studied. In this study, the tribological properties of six frictional pairs, consisting of three hard materials (18Cr2Ni4WA, Al2O3 coating, and Cr2O3 coating) and two soft materials (metal-impregnated graphite [Metal-IG] and resin-impregnated graphite [Resin-IG]), were analyzed using a disc-on-disc tribometer. An oil–air environment was created using a minimal quantity lubrication (MQL) system and a closed chamber. The results show that the COF of the four frictional pairs consisting of two coatings and two graphites decreases gradually with increasing rotational speed, and the frictional pairs composed of Al2O3 coating and Resin-IG and Cr2O3 coating and Resin-IG have the lowest COF between 0.022 and 0.03. Therefore, the frictional pairs of G-LMBPHS are in a mixed lubrication condition. The lubricant in the oil–air environment is adsorbed and stored in pits on the surface of graphite and coatings, enhancing the hydrodynamic effect of the spiral grooves and reducing the COF by up to 45%. Metal-IG has better wear resistance than Resin-IG, and the frictional pair consisting of Cr2O3 coating and Metal-IG has the lightest wear. This study provides an important basis for the selection of G-LMBPHS frictional pairs in oil–air environments.
Calibration of Acousto-Optic Interaction Geometry Based on the Analysis of AOTF Angular Performance
Authors: Zhang Hao , Zhao Huijie , Guo Qi , Xuan Yan
Published: May 2023

Acousto-optic interaction geometry determines the spectral and spatial response of an acousto-optic tunable filter (AOTF). The precise calibration of the acousto-optic interaction geometry of the device is a necessary process before designing and optimizing optical systems. In this paper, we develop a novel calibration method based on the polar angular performance of an AOTF. A commercial AOTF device with unknown geometry parameters was experimentally calibrated. The experimental results show high precision, in some cases falling within 0.01°. In addition, we analyzed the parameter sensitivity and Monte Carlo tolerance of the calibration method. The results of the parameter sensitivity analysis show that the principal refractive index has a large influence on the calibration results, while other factors have little influence. The results of the Monte Carlo tolerance analysis show that the probability of the results falling 0.1° using this method is greater than 99.7%. This work provides an accurate and easy-to-perform method for AOTF crystal calibration and can contribute to the characteristic analysis of AOTFs and the optical design of spectral imaging systems.
Data-Driven Fault Detection of AUV Rudder System: A Mixture Model Approach
Authors: Zhang Zhiteng , Zhang Xiaofang , Yan Tianhong , Gao Shuang , Yu Ze
Published: May 2023

Based on data-driven and mixed models, this study proposes a fault detection method for autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) rudder systems. The proposed method can effectively detect faults in the absence of angle feedback from the rudder. Considering the parameter uncertainty of the AUV motion model resulting from the dynamics analysis method, we present a parameter identification method based on the recurrent neural network (RNN). Prior to identification, singular value decomposition (SVD) was chosen to denoise the original sensor data as the data pretreatment step. The proposed method provides more accurate predictions than recursive least squares (RLSs) and a single RNN. In order to reduce the influence of sensor parameter errors and prediction model errors, the adaptive threshold is mentioned as a method for analyzing prediction errors. In the meantime, the results of the threshold analysis were combined with the qualitative force analysis to determine the rudder system’s fault diagnosis and location. Experiments conducted at sea demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Horizontal Tensile Machine for Mechanical Tests Applicable to Suspension Clamps, Transmission Line Accessories, and Overhead Conductors
Authors: Ramirez-Martinez Antonio , Barriga-Rodriguez Leonardo , Rodríguez-Olivares Noe Amir , Soto-Cajiga Jorge Alberto
Published: May 2023

This work aimed to design a tensile horizontal machine that performs mechanical testing for suspension clamps, transmission line accessories, and overhead conductors with the following features: the suspension clamps device will be a permanent part of the structure, requiring a minimal setup; and it will accept overhead conductor specimens with lengths of up to 12 m and also be able to perform testing for pieces that require the plate-fork fastening option. Analytical and numerical calculations are performed according to the AISC-360-16 standard and static structural module of ANSYS software, respectively, to compare results.
Fixed/Preassigned-Time Stabilization for Complex-Valued Inertial Neural Networks with Distributed Delays: A Non-Separation Approach
Authors: Yao Yu , Zhang Guodong , Li Yan
Published: May 2023

This article explores complex-valued inertial neural networks (CVINNs) with distributed delays (DDs). By constructing two new feedback controllers, some novel results on fixed-time stabilization (FTS) and preassigned-time stabilization (PTS) of CVINNs are established. Unlike most of the previous works, FTS and PTS obtained here are explored without dividing the original complex-valued system into two separate real valued subsystems. Eventually, to verify the effectiveness and reliability of the results of this article, we provide several numerical examples. The FTS and PTS of CVINNs are successfully implemented at T = 6, 5.5, and 5, and the settling time is not affected by system parameters and initial values.
Fractal Newton Methods
Authors: Akgül Ali , Grow David
Published: May 2023

We introduce fractal Newton methods for solving f(x)=0 that generalize and improve the classical Newton method. We compare the theoretical efficacy of the classical and fractal Newton methods and illustrate the theory with examples.
On Queues with Working Vacation and Interdependence in Arrival and Service Processes
Authors: Sindhu S , Krishnamoorthy Achyutha , Kozyrev Dmitry
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we consider two queuing models. Model 1 considers a single-server working vacation queuing system with interdependent arrival and service processes. The arrival and service processes evolve by transitions on the product space of two Markovian chains. The transitions in the two Markov chains in the product space are governed by a semi-Markov rule, with sojourn times in states governed by the exponential distribution. In contrast, in the second model, we consider independent arrival and service processes following phase-type distributions with representation (α,T) of order m and (β,S) of order n, respectively. The service time during normal working is the above indicated phase-type distribution whereas that during working vacation is a phase-type distribution with representation (β,θS), 0<θ<1. The duration of the latter is exponentially distributed. The latter model is already present in the literature and will be briefly described. The main objective is to make a theoretical comparison between the two. Numerical illustrations for the first model are provided.
Bounds for the Error in Approximating a Fractional Integral by Simpson’s Rule
Authors: Budak Hüseyin , Hezenci Fatih , Kara Hasan , Sarikaya Mehmet Zeki
Published: May 2023

Simpson’s rule is a numerical method used for approximating the definite integral of a function. In this paper, by utilizing mappings whose second derivatives are bounded, we acquire the upper and lower bounds for the Simpson-type inequalities by means of Riemann–Liouville fractional integral operators. We also study special cases of our main results. Furthermore, we give some examples with graphs to illustrate the main results. This study on fractional Simpson’s inequalities is the first paper in the literature as a method.
How KLFCM Works—Convergence and Parameter Analysis for KLFCM Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Chaomurilige
Published: May 2023

KLFCM is a clustering algorithm proposed by introducing K-L divergence into FCM, which has been widely used in the field of fuzzy clustering. Although many studies have focused on improving its accuracy and efficiency, little attention has been paid to its convergence properties and parameter selection. Like other fuzzy clustering algorithms, the output of the KLFCM algorithm is also affected by fuzzy parameters. Furthermore, some researchers have noted that the KLFCM algorithm is equivalent to the EM algorithm for Gaussian mixture models when the fuzzifier λ is equal to 2. In practical applications, the KLFCM algorithm may also exhibit self-annealing properties similar to the EM algorithm. To address these issues, this paper uses Jacobian matrix analysis to investigate the KLFCM algorithm’s parameter selection and convergence properties. We first derive a formula for calculating the Jacobian matrix of the KLFCM with respect to the membership function. Then, we demonstrate the self-annealing behavior of this algorithm through theoretical analysis based on the Jacobian matrix. We also provide a reference strategy for determining the appropriate values of fuzzy parameters in the KLFCM algorithm. Finally, we use Jacobian matrix analysis to investigate the relationships between the convergence rate and different parameter values of the KLFCM algorithm. Our experimental results validate our theoretical findings, demonstrating that when selecting appropriate lambda parameter values, the KLFCM clustering algorithm exhibits self-annealing properties that reduce the impact of initial clustering centers on clustering results. Moreover, using our proposed strategy for selecting the fuzzy parameter lambda of the KLFCM algorithm effectively prevents coincident clustering results from being produced by the algorithm.
Adaptive Finite/Fixed Time Control Design for a Class of Nonholonomic Systems with Disturbances
Authors: Labbadi Moussa , Boubaker Sahbi , Kamel Souad , Alsubaei Faisal S.
Published: May 2023

This paper addresses the fixed-time stability analysis of a mobile unicycle-like system (UTMS) with chained shape dynamics (CFD) and subjected to unknown matched uncertainties. To achieve fixed-time stabilization of a nonholonomic (NS) system in CFD, an adaptive nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode control scheme (ANFTSMC) is proposed. To determine the upper bounds of the disturbances, only velocity and position measurements are required. In addition, the control rule uses the Lyapunov theory, which guarantees the stability of the closed-loop system. To emphasize/evaluate the efficacy of the proposed method, simulations are performed in different disturbance situations.
Decision Analysis under Behavioral Economics—Incentive Mechanism for Improving Data Quality in Crowdsensing
Authors: Liu Jiaqi , Shen Xi , Liu Wenxi , Lv Zhi , Liu Ruoti , Li Deng
Published: May 2023

Due to the profitability and selfishness of crowdfunding system users, under fixed budget conditions, there are problems, such as low task completion rate due to insufficient participants and low data quality. However, the existing incentive mechanisms are mainly based on traditional economics, which believes that whether users participate in tasks depends on whether the benefits of the task outweigh the costs. Behavioral economics shows that people judge the value of gains and losses according to a reference point. The weight given to losses is more important than the weight given to the same gains. Therefore, this article considers the impact of reference dependency and loss aversion on user decision-making and proposes a participant selection mechanism based on reference dependency (PSM-RD) and a quality assurance mechanism based on loss aversion (QAM-LA). PSM-RD uses reference points to influence user pricing and selects more participants based on relative value. QAM-LA pays additional rewards based on the data quality of participants and motivates them to improve data quality by reconstructing utility functions. The simulation results show that compared with the ABSee mechanism, data quality has improved by 17%, and the value of completed tasks has increased by at least 40%.
Mechanical Properties of Ballastless Track Considering Freeze–Thaw Deterioration Damage
Authors: Xie Haoran , Xu Lingyan , Yan Bin
Published: May 2023

In order to investigate the stress characteristics of ballastless track under high latitude, and multi-source and multi-field extreme temperature conditions. Based on the finite element theory and the elastic foundation beam–plate principle, a finite element model of the ballastless track considering the limit convex abutment, gel resin, and interlayer bonding is established. The mechanical characteristics of the ballastless track under the slab–CAM layer bonding state, mortar separation, freeze–thaw degradation and forced deformation of the foundation are studied. Considering the deterioration of materials, the bending moment and reinforcement of track structures in cold regions are checked and calculated. The studies show that under the action of negative temperature gradient load, the edge of the track slab is subjected to tension, and structural separation occurs at the edge of the slab. When the interface between the track slab–CAM layer is poorly bonded, the bearing capacity can be improved, and the amount of separation can be reduced by increasing the structural stiffness of the CAM layer. Under the action of freeze–thaw cycles, the material performance deteriorates seriously, the separation between the track structures intensifies, the baseplate is seriously powdered and cracked, and the maximum tensile stress exceeds 6 MPa. The CAM layer and the baseplate are weak structures, and the foundation frost heave occurs at the expansion joint of the baseplate, which is the frost heave condition. Under freeze–thaw deterioration, the original reinforcement design of the substructure structure does not meet the requirements of structural cracks and reinforcement yield stress. In severely cold areas, the structural reinforcement scheme should be reasonably determined.
Application of the Quasi-Hadamard Product to Subclasses of Analytic Functions Involving the q-Difference Operator
Authors: Kota Wafaa Y. , El-Ashwah Rabha M. , Breaz Nicoleta
Published: May 2023

In this study, the subclasses Vq,ϱℓ(c𝚥,λ),Uq,ϱ(c𝚥,λ) and Vq,ϱ(c𝚥,λ) of analytic functions using the q-difference operator are defined and investigated. Thus, we obtained some results for the quasi-Hadamard product on these classes of analytic functions. Furthermore, connections between our results and some previously established results are outlined in this study.
Estimation of the Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Magnetic Fields around Overhead Power Lines—A Case Study
Authors: Pavel Ionel , Petrescu Camelia , David Valeriu , Lunca Eduard
Published: May 2023

Due to the growing number, diversity and spreading of magnetic field sources, an increasing need to determine the field levels of human exposure has arisen. Some of the most encountered sources are the overhead power lines (OPL) and the determination of spatial and temporal variation of the magnetic fields produced by OPLs is a challenge. In this paper a hybrid method for the estimation of the temporal and spatial distribution of the magnetic flux density B caused by OPLs, based on experimental measurements and on numerical and analytical simulations, is presented. Thus, using a small number of simultaneous spot measurements correlated with a long-term survey, maps of the magnetic flux density distribution on extended areas are established, for several time instances. The proposed method is verified using two sets of different measurements and the results obtained through simulation. The difference between the estimated and simulated values of B is under 5.5%, which is considered acceptable considering that B spans over a large set of values (724 nT ÷ 1375 nT) in the location of the long-term survey procedure. The possibilities and limitations of the proposed method are discussed.
Extraction, Modification and Biomedical Application of Agarose Hydrogels: A Review
Authors: Jiang Feng , Xu Xin-Wei , Chen Fu-Quan , Weng Hui-Fen , Chen Jun , Ru Yi , Xiao Qiong , Xiao An-Feng
Published: May 2023

Numerous compounds present in the ocean are contributing to the development of the biomedical field. Agarose, a polysaccharide derived from marine red algae, plays a vital role in biomedical applications because of its reversible temperature-sensitive gelling behavior, excellent mechanical properties, and high biological activity. Natural agarose hydrogel has a single structural composition that prevents it from adapting to complex biological environments. Therefore, agarose can be developed into different forms through physical, biological, and chemical modifications, enabling it to perform optimally in different environments. Agarose biomaterials are being increasingly used for isolation, purification, drug delivery, and tissue engineering, but most are still far from clinical approval. This review classifies and discusses the preparation, modification, and biomedical applications of agarose, focusing on its applications in isolation and purification, wound dressings, drug delivery, tissue engineering, and 3D printing. In addition, it attempts to address the opportunities and challenges associated with the future development of agarose-based biomaterials in the biomedical field. It should help to rationalize the selection of the most suitable functionalized agarose hydrogels for specific applications in the biomedical industry.