bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced Detection of Underwater Gas Seep Sites Through Multibeam Echosounder Water Column Data and Numerical Analysis
Authors: Eka Adriyanti Syalsabila , Hana Hariyanto Irena
Published: December 2024

Water column imaging of multibeam echosounder systems (MBES) are sensitive and potential devices for investigating free gas bubbles release and their ascent up the water column. These data could demonstrate previously undetected characteristics on the water’s surface and seabed which are related to Sustainable Development Goal 14 about life below water. The research utilizes a MBES to map the volume of seabed gas emission bubbles in the Adriatic Sea, Italy, using water column data. The survey covered 1.5 km2 around a four-legged gas platform at a depth of 77 meters. To achieve a 50% overlap, ten parallel transects of 1.5 km each were used, with a vessel speed range of 2-2.6 m/s and a transect spacing of 100 m. Acoustic waves from seabed seepage were visualized using water column data, with reflection intensities ranging from −63.5 dB to 29 dB, reflecting the acoustic reflectance of various suspended materials. More precise thresholds were obtained by filtering and clustering the gas bubbles using the point weight approach to separate them from the noise and water bubbles. The uneven Digital Terrain Model (DTM) indicates gas emissions through water column data. The volume of gas bubbles was determined by visualizing the points in a 3D format using XYZ coordinates. Through interpolation techniques and 3D volumetric analysis, six bubble locations were obtained with volumes of 651.12 m3, 108.30 m3, 42.00 m3, 167.20 m3, 186.00 m3, 287.81 m3, and 45.00 m3. This study is crucial because it questions the methods of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) by investigating the discharge of carbon into the sea. Furthermore, this study helps to identify emission sources, measure the volume of released gas, and explain the depth distribution of emissions, providing essential data for marine CCS assessment.
Integration of WebODM Platform as Photogrammetry Cloud Processing and GeoNode as Corporate Spatial Data Infrastructure to Support the Acceleration of Geospatial Data Communication Flow in PT. Waskita Karya Tbk.
Authors: Yudha Wahyu Saputra Galih , Amirrudin Ahmad Ali , Lyhardo Sidabutar Yosevel , Shelvira Herwieany Agnes
Published: December 2024

This research explores the integration of two platforms, namely WebODM and GeoNode, with Geoserver as its connecting platform. This platform integration is a solution to support the acceleration of geospatial data communication flow in PT. Waskita Karya Tbk. The main objective of the research is to combine the advantages of Photogrammetry Cloud Processing owned by WebODM with the Spatial Data Infrastructure features owned by GeoNode, thus creating an efficient and integrated system for processing and storing geospatial data. The research methodology involves user needs analysis, system integration development, as well as testing and performance evaluation of the implemented system. The research results indicate that the integration of WebODM and GeoNode has successfully created an environment that allows users to easily perform cloud-based photogrammetry processes and efficiently store and share geospatial data. With this system, PT. Waskita Karya can improve its operational performance in terms of geospatial data processing and distribution, as well as accelerate communication flow between various involved units. The implication of this research is that platform integration like this can be an effective solution for companies managing geospatial data on a large scale.
Evaluation of an automated vessel recognition system: case study in Port of Cristo
Authors: Maglić Livia , Maglić Lovro , Blažina Antonio , Ognjanović Ivana
Published: December 2024

An automated vessel recognition system is a sophisticated technological solution for the automatic detection, identification, and classification of vessels in a maritime environment. This paper presents the evaluation of an automatic vessel recognition system implemented in the Port of Cristo on the island of Mallorca in Spain. The system employs PTZ camera and algorithm for image analysis and object recognition to accurately detect, classify and track different types of small vessels entering or departing from the port. The results revealed that the system successfully detected the event of the arrival and departure of vessels in 95% of the cases. In addition, the system was able to identify the vessel by recognizing the registration number in 75.81% of the cases and classifying the vessel type in 89.07% of the cases. The paper presents the SWOT analysis based on the knowledge and experience gained during the testing period.
System Theory and Human Factors Hazard Identification Approach for Marine Survey Operation
Authors: Waskito Dwitya Harits , Faishal Muhammad , Handoyo Tris , Kurniawan Indra , Hamonangan Julianto Saut
Published: December 2024

Marine survey operation is one of the most frequent and essential activities in enhancing ocean knowledge. Some dangerous tasks and activities involve scientists, marine crews, survey equipment, and sensors, such as deploying equipment near the seabed, collecting the sediment sample, and towing the equipment with the ship’s movement. Since it consists of several controllers and components, the comprehensive system theory must be applied to analyse the risk, and the effect of human error must be incorporated as the equipment’s controller within the system. This study provides a holistic hazard identiMication of marine survey operation by using System Theory Process and Analysis (STPA) and integrating it with the Human Factors ClassiMication System (HFACS) to deMine the unsafe control actions (UCA) and failure scenarios. According to the STPA, 194 UCAs could occur. The main causal factors of the UCAs are human and followed by technical errors. The STPA-HFACS analysis indicated that additional human and equipment actions would have a detrimental effect on the failures of the operation. This study will beneMit stakeholders in marine survey operations with an alternative method for risk analysis.
Identification of Ship Domain Shape to Degree of Ship Collision Risk on Head-on Encounter Situation
Authors: Hermawan Yuda Apri , Pratama Fernanda Wahyu , Nugroho Setyo , Widjaja Sjarief , Yulianto Totok , Purwanto Dedi Budi
Published: December 2024

Ship collisions are one of the marine accidents that can occur at any time, causing significant material and cargo losses. Lack of awareness of collision impacts and human factors are primary issues for ship collisions. Consequently, ship captains and technology have devised an imaginary area known as the ship domain. This ship domain is an imagined region used to define safe conditions around the ship. With the presence of a ship domain, collision risk can be reduced. This paper investigates the influence of ship domains on collision risk assessment during head-on encounters. To simulate realistic ship movement conditions, the manoeuvring mathematical group (MMG) model is used to predict ship movements. Additionally, fuzzy logic calculations and the closest point of approach (CPA) are employed to help identify the effectiveness of ship domains. Numerical simulations are conducted using three different ship domain shapes: egg, circle, and ellipse. The results indicate that the shape of the ship domain does not significantly influence collision risk assessment in head-on encounters. Instead, the division of the ship domain plays a more crucial role in evaluating ship collision risk.
Formal Safety Assessment (FSA) for ship collision in Musi River
Authors: Nugroho TF , Artana KB , Dinariyana AAB , Gurning S , Mas’ud MAA
Published: December 2024

Accident data from the Palembang Port Authority Of6ice Class II shows that the level of traf6ic accidents in the waters of the Musi River in Palembang is relatively high. Hazard identi6ication was conducted on the Musi River, resulting in 25 ship accidents caused by collisions and 4 ship accidents due to grounding. Subsequently, risk assessment was performed by analysing the collision frequency and its consequences on human casualties. The collision frequency was calculated using IWRAP, yielding results of 8.18 x 10-2, 9.74 x 10-3, and 8.18 x 10-4 for the head-on, overtaking, and crossing scenarios, respectively. An analysis of the consequences in terms of human casualties estimated an average of 11 victims. Six options were proposed as risk control options (RCOs): public awareness and regulation implementation, Automatic Identi6ication System (AIS) installation, crew education and training, standardization of safety equipment, utilization of pilotage services, and channel widening. Each RCO will be evaluated based on its cost and bene6its. The 6inal stage of the FSA involves recommendations aimed at selecting the best RCOs, considering the cost-bene6it analysis (CBA). The optimal choice to minimize ship collisions and human casualties in the waters of the Musi River is to conduct crew education and training. This option is the most cost-effective due to its lowest Gross Cost value. The bene6its gained amount to USD 890,273.02 with a 68% reduction in risk value.
Air quality monitoring and assessment based on AIS data
Authors: Maulidi A , Sambodho K , Dinariyana A A B , Ilmah A M
Published: December 2024

Indonesia is an archipelagic country, where sea transportation is highly needed to connect the islands among Indonesian regions. Indonesian waters are also passed by international shipping passing through the Indonesia Archipelagic Sea Lane. Number of ships tends to increase by increasing the economic activities in Indonesia. The increasing number of ships will potentially cause the increase of air pollution in Indonesia waters. AIS consortium has been established since 2020 focusing on conducting join research and development on several issues that can be solved using Automatic Identification System (AIS) data gathered from AIS devices that have been installed in several universities as members of the consortium. One potential use of AIS data is the estimation of capacity and spreading of air pollution caused by shipping activities in Indonesia waters. As AIS can provide ship’s navigation status time-to-time, the estimation of fuel consumption as well as the emission can be estimated in real time. For highly accusation fuel oil consumption prediction is done by using the Random Forest Model and ship emissions including CO2, NO2, SO2, PM2.5, and PM10 are estimated based on emission factors from ships. This analysis is mapping the contribution of air pollution based on ship type in the Tanjung Perak port area. Later, it is expected to become the basis for Indonesia’s maritime operation policy in order to monitor and control the emission contributed by the ships in Indonesian waters.
Risk Analysis of Coral Reef Damage Area due to Grounding Incidents in Karimunjawa National Park
Authors: Prastyasari F I , Dinariyana Dwi Putranta AAB , Arifah E B Z
Published: December 2024

The designation of Karimunjawa as a National Park in 1999 does not prevent any shipping activities performed by barges, passenger ship, LCT, or even tanker from entering Karimunjawa waters. Such condition can cause damages to coral reefs if the ship run aground. In addition, the possibility of coral reefs contamination due to tourists activities such as diving that requires vessels to transport them. Based on the historical data from 2017 until 2023, fourteen cases of vessel grounding in Karimunjawa were recorded. This study comprises of hazard identiLication, frequency analysis, severity analysis, and risk representation. The simulation result of IWRAP Mk2 shows that the grounding incident in Karimunjawa is 3.736 incidents/year. Meanwhile the projected coral reefs area that affected by the grounding incident reached 0.55% from the total coverage. Based on Risk Management Australia AS/NZS 4360 (2004), the results showed that support vessels have high risk of grounding, followed by passenger ships with a moderate risk level. Tankers and other types of vessels were found to have a low risk of grounding.
Assessing the Proposed Designation of Nusa Penida and Gili Matra in the Lombok Strait as a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA)
Authors: Pratiwi Emmy , Prastyasari Fadilla I. , Wijayanto Danuja , Dinariyana AAB , Saptarini Dian
Published: December 2024

The Lombok Strait, located in the Indonesian Archipelagic Sea Lane (IASL) II, serves as an international shipping route and is also crossed by ferries between Bali and Lombok Islands. The potential increase in international shipping trafBic could pose a threat of marine pollution due to shipping activities, such as ship accidents and operational discharges from ships. There are two areas in the Lombok Strait that have been designated as national marine conservation areas by the Indonesia government, namely Nusa Penida Island and Gili Matra Island. The rich marine biodiversity of the Lombok Strait, especially in Nusa Penida and the Gili Islands, should be protected from the threats posed by international shipping activities. This study aims to assess the necessity of designating the Lombok Strait as a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA). The newly established routing systems, TrafBic Separation Schemes (TSS) in the Lombok Strait, can be adopted as Associated Protective Measures (APMs) within the designation of a PSSA. Risk assessment was implemented to demonstrate the exposed risks of international shipping activities that could threaten the marine ecosystem and evaluate the effectiveness of the TSS as an associated protective measure. Based on reviews to meet at least one of the criteria for designation as a PSSA, Nusa Penida and Gili Matra have its the signiBicance of its ecological, socio-economic & culture, and marine trafBic characteristics. The total annual frequency of ship collision is 3.32E-03. In conclusion, the implementation of TSS as the existing APM has proven effective in reducing the risk of ship collision in Lombok Straits by 60.3% compared to frequency ship collision before TSS.
Analysis of camber ratio variation on B-Series propeller performance by using combined panel-vortex method and blade-element theory
Authors: Indiaryanto M , Suastika I K , Setyanto T A
Published: December 2024

The camber ratio of a propeller significantly affects its hydrodynamic performance. The camber ratio particularly affects the lift force generated by the propeller blades, which ultimately affects the propeller thrust and torque. In this study, effects of camber ratio variations are investigated by using a combined method of panel vortex method and blade element theory. The camber ratios considered in this study are as follows: 0% (0.00, original foil), 1.6% (0.016), 2.2% (0.022), and 2.8% (0.028). A larger camber ratio results in a more convex propeller blade surface. Calculation results show that the larger the camber ratio, the higher the thrust and torque coefficients. The camber ratio of 2.2% (0.022) gives the highest propeller efficiency of 58.5% at the advance coefficient J = 0.7.
Integration of Hand Motion Sensor, Artificial Intelligence, and QR Code for Real-Time Monitoring of Welder’s Performance and Welding Quality: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: Aji Adi Sasmito , Pribadi Triwilaswandio Wuruk , Baihaqi Imam
Published: December 2024

The welding quality, as the product of manual or semi-automatic welding process, is highly affected by the hand motion of the welders. In the shipbuilding industry, the welding inspection process is commonly performed after the welding process is finished by the welding inspectors. The research aims to develop a realtime monitoring system for welder’s performance by recording their hand motion. The hand motion sensors and QR codes are integrated through the Internet of Things (IoT) to monitor the welder’s performance and weldment quality. The realtime monitoring concept was developed by designing the monitoring concept utilising the QR code and Android mobile smartphone. The welder’s hands are equipped with the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensor to record their hand motion. The motion data are transferred directly from the IMU sensor to the smartphone storage through a Bluetooth connection. The data then are uploaded to the cloud storage through the internet connection. The stored recorded data was then analysed and compared with the qualified welders’ hand motions. After welding ends, the welder reports the visual appearance of the weldment and its location as identified by the QR code through the Android system. Finally, the functionality of the application prototype is tested, and the results show that the system can be used practically for real-time monitoring of welder performance and welding quality.
Deep Learning CNN-LSTM Approach for Identifying Welder’s Hand Motion Gestures Using Wearable Sensors
Authors: Virmansyah Vialdo Muhammad , Pribadi Triwilaswandio Wuruk , Baihaqi Imam
Published: December 2024

A welder plays a crucial role in the construction of a new ship. Monitoring the performance of welders involved in the construction of a ship is particularly important for controlling dimensions. he competency and consistency of welders play a vital role, with specific hand movement patterns contributing to welding quality. This study aims to identify individual welders’ hand movement patterns using Deep Learning with CNN-LSTM configurations. Data was collected through IMU motion sensors attached to welders’ wrists, capturing acceleration, angular speed, magnetic force, and electric current changes. The data was classified using CNN-LSTM, which showed higher accuracy than SVM methods. Experimental results indicated an overall classification accuracy of 99.73% for identifying individual welders and 97.07% for determining welding positions.
Critically analysis for fuel oil storage facilities using FMECA method
Authors: Wijanarto B , Zaman M B , Cahyono B
Published: December 2024

Fuel oil storage facilities, such as the PT.X Fuel Terminal, have an important role in maintaining a stable and safe energy supply for the community. Smooth operations and reliability of equipment in the storage facility are crucial factors in ensuring an adequate and safe fuel supply. In carrying out its operations, the landfill facility is faced with various challenges. One of the main challenges is maintaining complex and diverse equipment. Equipment such as storage tanks, connecting pipes, pumps and other equipment must be maintained regularly to prevent failures that could cause operational disruptions and potential safety risks. However, traditional maintenance approaches based on routine schedules are often inefficient and less responsive to the actual condition of the equipment. In this research, criticality analysis at the fuel oil terminal was carried out. This aims to carry out condition monitoring. By analyzing criticality, it will be easier to make decisions on the next steps. In this research, the FMECA method was used. This method is very good for finding criticality values in the system.
Repowering MP Bandar Madani: “Transforming into a Fully Electric Pilot Boat to Support Pare-Pare Green Port”
Authors: Shaleh Ibrahim , Koenhardono E S , Sarwito S
Published: December 2024

Parepare Port is within the working area of PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) which serves the export and import cargo. In 2021, 99% of visiting ships entering Parepare port will be more than 500 GT, so it is mandatory to use pilot services to enter the port. Currently ship guiding services are provided by MP. Masela and MP. Bandar Madani. However, M.P. Bandar Madani experienced a drowning incident in September 2021. Even though the engine had been repaired, the condition was not as before. PT Pelindo Marine Service as the pilot boat operator will repower the MP Bandar Madani into an electric pilot boat. This initiative aims to enhance pilotage services and contribute to the sustainability goals of Pare-pare Port, thereby transforming it into a Green Port. This paper discusses the technical analysis of repowering at MP Bandar Madani to improve pilot services and support the Pare-pare Port as a Green Port.
Heart sound recognition using hybrid joint transform correlator
Authors: Mohapatra Jyoti Bikash , Monikantan Jyothish , Kumar Yogesh , Nishchal Naveen K
Published: December 2024

This work introduces an innovative method for heart sound recognition using a hybrid joint transform correlator (JTC). Traditional techniques such as convolutional neural networks and machine learning models, although promising, often suffer from computational complexity and latency issues, resulting in slower processing speeds. In contrast, the proposed method overcomes these challenges by utilizing an optical correlator that operates at significantly accelerated speeds. The heart sound signals are initially converted into spectrograms, which are subsequently correlated using the hybrid JTC for recognition and decision-making. Moreover, to handle variability within heart sound classes and enhance recognition accuracy, a composite filter synthesized from multiple spectrograms is integrated with the JTC. As a result, the proposed approach not only enhances the speed of heart sound analysis but also maintains high precision and reliability. The effectiveness of the method has been confirmed through both simulation and experimental results.
On-chip high-dimensional entangled photon sources
Authors: Kaur Tavshabad , Peace Daniel , Romero Jacquiline
Published: December 2024

High-dimensional quantum entanglement is an important resource for emerging quantum technologies such as quantum communication and quantum computation. The scalability of metres-long experimental setups limits high-dimensional entanglement in bulk optics. Advancements in quantum technology hinge on reproducible, and reconfigurable quantum devices—including photon sources, which are challenging to achieve in a scalable manner using bulk optics. Advances in nanotechnology and CMOS-compatible integration techniques have enabled the generation of entangled photons on millimeter-scale chips, significantly enhancing scalability, stability, replicability, and miniaturization for real-world quantum applications. In recent years we have seen several chip-scale demonstrations with different discrete degrees of freedom including path, frequency-bin, time-bin, and transverse modes, on many material platforms. A complete quantum photonic integrated circuit requires the generation, manipulation, and detection of quantum states, involving various active and passive quantum photonic components which further increase the degree of complexity. Here, we focus on the high-dimensional versions of qubits—qudits—and review the nonlinear optical processes that facilitate on-chip high-dimensional entangled photon sources, and the currently used material platforms. We discuss a range of current implementations of on-chip high-dimensional entangled photon sources and demonstrated applications. We comment on the current challenges due to the limitations of individual material platforms and present future opportunities in hybrid and heterogeneous integration strategies for the next generation of integrated quantum photonic chips.
Van der Waals epitaxy and beyond for monolithic 3D integration
Authors: Kim Hyunjun , Bae Joonyup , Pearton Stephen J , Ren Fan , Kim Jihyun , Lee Gwan-Hyoung
Published: December 2024

As the limitations of silicon-based technologies approach their physical boundaries, monolithic three-dimensional integration (M3D) and two-dimensional (2D) materials, such as transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), have emerged as promising solutions for continuous scaling in semiconductor devices. This perspective explores the evolution of van der Waals (vdW) epitaxy and its potential to integrate TMDs into M3D structures. By circumventing lattice mismatch issues, vdW epitaxy allows the formation of high-quality single-crystal heterostructures across diverse material systems. However, the challenge of achieving films with uniform thickness control remains unresolved. Herein, advanced epitaxial growth techniques for TMDs are reviewed, including quasi-vdW epitaxy, vdW recrystallization, and remote epitaxy, whilst also introducing emerging approaches, such as hypotaxy and interfacial epitaxy. These emerging techniques have the potential to produce large-area defect-free films with controllable thicknesses. Ultimately, the development of new epitaxial methods specifically designed for TMDs is essential for the future integration of 2D materials into industrial applications.
Assessment of fiber loading effects on mechanical properties and prediction of mechanical properties via artificial neural networks of hybrid jute /sheep wool epoxy composites
Authors: B H Shivayogi , T S Manjunatha , B H Maruthi Prashanth , Gowda Sandeepkumar , Iqbal Mulla Asif , Puninchathaya P Divijesh
Published: December 2024

The primary purpose of this study is to realize the effect of fibre loading on mechanical properties like tensile, bending, impact, interlaminar shear strength and fracture toughness of hybrid composites made of alkaline treated jute and sheep wool hybrid fibres and epoxy. A series of composite laminates were prepared with varying fibre (30%, 40%, 50% and 60%) loadings using hand layup technique. The findings indicated that hybrid composite with equal amount of fiber and resin (JW50) showed a higher strength of 40 MPa against tensile load, maximum strength of 99 MPa against bending load, superior interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) of 3.09 MPa, and a maximum fracture toughness of 72 MPa.m1/2 compared to other fibre loadings. In terms of impact test, JW50 displayed the highest impact strength of 85.98 J/m, underscoring its exceptional capacity to absorb energy compared to other composites. The mechanical strengths of these composites were also predicted using an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model, which generated accuracy of 87.46% for tensile strength, 86.31% for flexural strength, and 83.52% for impact strength. The absolute percentage errors were found to be 12.53%, 13.68%, and 16.47%, respectively, demonstrating the model’s reliability in estimating composite properties based on fibre content and composition. SEM images of fractured samples under tensile load reveal that higher resin content reduces fibre-matrix bonding, while a balanced fibre-to-resin ratio improves load transfer, but too much fibre leads to debonding due to inadequate resin justifying the experimental results.
Electrochemically stable and ultrathin polymer-based solid electrolytes for dendrite-free all-solid-state lithium-metal batteries
Authors: Yu Fenghua , Mu Yongbiao , Han Meisheng , Liu Jie , Zheng Kunxiong , Zou Zhiyu , Hu Hengyuan , Man Quanyan , Li Wenjia , Wei Lei , Zeng Lin , Zhao Tianshou
Published: December 2024

Polymer-based composite solid electrolytes (PCSEs) are increasingly studied in all-solid-state lithium-metal batteries (ASSLMBs) due to the combined advantages of better flexibility of polymer and higher ion conductivity of ceramic electrolytes. However, most reported PCSEs are overly thick, increasing internal resistances. Besides, the poor stability at the Li metal–electrolyte interfaces often leads to severe lithium dendrite formation and reduced cycling stability. Here, we fabricate an ultrathin PCSE with a thickness of 12.4 μm, incorporating polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers as the structural matrix, and a filler with polyethylene oxide and Li6.5La3Zr1.5Ta0.5O12 (LLZTO). Due to the formation of the LiCN layer on the surface of the lithium metal and the Li-ion transport pathways induced by the dehydrocyanation reaction at the LLZTO/PAN interfaces, the PCSE exhibits a high critical current density of 1.8 mA cm−2 and a low energy barrier of 0.278 eV for Li-ion transfer, accommodating the fast Li-ion migration to avoid Li-dendrite growth. In addition, the stable nitrile groups and the dehydrocyanation reaction ensure the electrochemical stability of the PCSE with a high oxidation voltage of 5.5 V and an exceptional cycling stability (2100 h) in Li||PCSE||Li symmetric cells. Additionally, the Li||PCSE||LiFePO4 full cells demonstrate a high volumetric energy density of 338.3 Wh L−1 at 0.1 C and a robust stability over 100 cycles at 0.5 C. The study offers a new approach for fabricating ultrathin PCSEs and provides insights into the mechanisms of dendrite-free formation, guiding the development of high-performance PCSEs for ASSLMBs.
A twist over a minimal étale groupoid that is topologically nontrivial over the interior of the isotropy
Authors: Armstrong Becky , Ng Abraham , Sims Aidan , Zhou Yumiao
Published: December 2024

We present an example of a twist over a minimal Hausdorff étale groupoid such that the restriction of the twist to the interior of the isotropy is not topologically trivial; that is, the restricted twist is not induced by a continuous

2
2

-cocycle.
Elucidation of physiological functions of sphingolipid-related molecules by chemical approaches
Authors: Murai Yuta
Published: December 2024

Sphingolipids (SLs), found in all animals, plants, and fungi and in certain prokaryotic organisms, exhibit essential physiological functions that cannot be replicated by other lipids. Although SLs and their related biomolecules behave as lipid mediators, skin barrier systems, and epitopes, their detailed biological functions have not yet been revealed, unlike those of proteins and nucleic acids, because the biosynthesis of SLs is not governed by the central dogma. Recently, SLs have been widely studied in relation to diseases such as obesity, dementia, and neuron agenesis and have attracted attention as molecules related to unmet medical needs. This review presents the recent applications of the SL chemical biology in unmet medical needs.
scDCA: deciphering the dominant cell communication assembly of downstream functional events from single-cell RNA-seq data
Authors: Ji Boya , Wang Xiaoqi , Wang Xiang , Xu Liwen , Peng Shaoliang
Published: December 2024

Cell–cell communications (CCCs) involve signaling from multiple sender cells that collectively impact downstream functional processes in receiver cells. Currently, computational methods are lacking for quantifying the contribution of pairwise combinations of cell types to specific functional processes in receiver cells (e.g. target gene expression or cell states). This limitation has impeded understanding the underlying mechanisms of cancer progression and identifying potential therapeutic targets. Here, we proposed a deep learning-based method, scDCA, to decipher the dominant cell communication assembly (DCA) that have a higher impact on a particular functional event in receiver cells from single-cell RNA-seq data. Specifically, scDCA employed a multi-view graph convolution network to reconstruct the CCCs landscape at single-cell resolution, and then identified DCA by interpreting the model with the attention mechanism. Taking the samples from advanced renal cell carcinoma as a case study, the scDCA was successfully applied and validated in revealing the DCA affecting the crucial gene expression in immune cells. The scDCA was also applied and validated in revealing the DCA responsible for the variation of 14 typical functional states of malignant cells. Furthermore, the scDCA was applied and validated to explore the alteration of CCCs under clinical intervention by comparing the DCA for certain cytotoxic factors between patients with and without immunotherapy. In summary, scDCA provides a valuable and practical tool for deciphering the cell type combinations with the most dominant impact on a specific functional process of receiver cells, which is of great significance for precise cancer treatment. Our data and code are free available at a public GitHub repository: https://github.com/pengsl-lab/scDCA.git.
Interspecific variation in defensive flower closure of Drosera (Droseraceae) is related to the herbivory pressure
Authors: Tagawa Kazuki , Osaki Haruka , Watanabe Mikio
Published: December 2024

Rapid plant movements in response to mechanical stimulation have long captivated mainstream interest. The flowers of Drosera species, notably studied for their defensive closure upon touch, protect their ovules from the specialist herbivore caterpillar Buckleria paludum. Although several species within Drosera exhibit variation in the speed of flower closure, the evolutionary and ecological contexts of these differences remain unclear. We hypothesize that the interspecific variation in flower closure speed has evolved in response to differing levels of herbivory pressure. Using Drosera rotundifolia and Drosera tokaiensis, we investigated the relationships between flower closure speed, effectiveness in ovule defence, herbivory pressure in nature, and the potential cost of flower closure. Our results indicate that D. tokaiensis, which exhibits faster flower closure than D. rotundifolia, more effectively reduces ovule damage due to B. paludum feeding attempts. Field surveys revealed that D. tokaiensis experiences higher herbivory pressure, likely due to its preference for drier microhabitats, which may influence the evolution of its rapid closure response. These findings enhance our understanding of the ecological and evolutionary factors driving the diversification of rapid plant movements and contribute to the emerging field of plant behavioural ecology.
The use of ChatGPT in the dermatological field: a narrative review
Authors: Potestio Luca , Feo Federica , Martora Fabrizio , Megna Matteo , Napolitano Maddalena , D’Agostino Michela
Published: December 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) encompasses the development of computer systems capable of tasks typically requiring human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making and language translation. Over time, numerous applications have emerged, with the integration of AI into medicine marking a significant leap forward in healthcare delivery, diagnosis and treatment. Among medical specialties, dermatology stands at the forefront of AI advancements, leveraging machine learning and deep learning to enhance dermatologists’ abilities and improve patient care. ChatGPT is an advanced language model by OpenAI, originally designed for conversations, which has expanded its utility into diverse fields, including healthcare and dermatology. In this context, the aim of this review article was to explore the synergistic relationship between ChatGPT and dermatology, examining how this innovative AI model is reshaping skin health management, its potential applications, preliminary data on its efficiency and accuracy, as well as ethical and legal concerns related to the use of its tool.
Silyl ether-modified polyalkylene glycols with high viscosity index
Authors: Aida Fuyuki , Tagawa Kazuo
Published: December 2024

To improve the viscosity index (VI) of polyalkylene glycol (PAG), the hydroxyl group was modified into a silyl ether. The hydrogen bond of the unmodified PAG was broken and its kinematic viscosity at 40 oC (KV40) was substantially reduced. The kinematic viscosity of the modified PAG at 100 oC (KV100) showed a slight reduction, compared with the unmodified one, demonstrating that the VI could be greatly improved. The VIs of polypropylene glycol (PPG), which contains two hydroxy groups, (Mn = 1,120) and its trimethylsilyl ether (PPG-TMS), were 146 and 299, respectively. A similar improvement in VI was observed in PAG with different molecular weights and with different types of silyl ethers.
Glucocorticoid Dosing and Implications for Vaccination: Evolution of Global Definitions
Authors: Wang Xia , Patel Cyra , Giles Michelle L , Burns Penelope , Macartney Kristine , Teh Benjamin , Williams Phoebe C
Published: December 2024

Despite widespread adoption of “high-dose” glucocorticoid definitions across international immunisation guidelines (ie, prednisone-equivalent dosing >20 mg/day, or >2 mg/kg/day in children), the rationale remains unclear. Literature searches were performed through academic databases for this narrative review to identify relevant evidence regarding glucocorticoid dosing on vaccine responses and safety. In people receiving prednisone <7 mg/day, vaccine responses are maintained. In people on “high-dose” glucocorticoids (>20 mg/day), antibody titres and seropositivity are reduced, whereas the impact of low- to medium-dose glucocorticoids (7 to 20 mg/day) on vaccine efficacy remains inconclusive. Due to inconsistent paediatric dosing regimens, data is insufficient to support a unified “high-dose” glucocorticoid threshold. Non-live vaccines are well tolerated in patients receiving glucocorticoids with rheumatic/inflammatory disorders, but enhanced reactogenicity after live vaccination may occur in those with severe immunodeficiencies. Clinicians should consider individual risk-benefit profiles, rather than following strict dosing thresholds, when curating immunisation programs for patients prescribed glucocorticoids.
Interference of titanium and zirconia implants on dental-dedicated MR image quality: ex vivo and in vivo assessment
Authors: Johannsen Katrine M , Christensen Jennifer , Matzen Louise Hauge , Hansen Brian , Spin-Neto Rubens
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To assess the impact of titanium and zirconia implants on dental-dedicated MR image (ddMRI) quality ex vivo (magnetic field distortion [MFD]) and in vivo (artefacts).

Methods

ddMR images were acquired (MAGNETOM Free.Max, 0.55 T, Siemens Healthineers AG, Forchheim, Germany) using a dental-dedicated coil (Rapid Biomedical, Rimpar, Germany). Ex vivo: three phantoms were manufactured: one agar-embedded titanium implant, one agar-embedded zirconia implant, and one control phantom (agar 1.5%). Field map analysis of images acquired at 0.55 T, 1.5 T, and 3.0 T (MAGNETOM Sola and MAGNETOM Lumina, respectively, Siemens Healthineers AG, Forchheim, Germany) was done to illustrate the extent and severity of MFD caused by the implants. In vivo (0.55 T only): a splint was designed to serve as an implant carrier, allowing diverse implant positions (0, 1, 2, or 5 implants). A volunteer was imaged using multiple pulse sequences. Three blinded observers scored the images twice for the presence, severity, and type of artefacts, illustrated by descriptive statistics and inter- and intra-observer reproducibility (kappa statistics).

Results

Ex vivo: titanium produced more severe MFD than zirconia. MFD extent and amplitude increased with field strength (0.55 T < 1.5 T < 3.0 T). In vivo: titanium produced more artefacts than zirconia, generally as signal voids in tooth crowns close to implants. Inter- and intra-observer reproducibility ranged from 0.28 to 0.64 and 0.32 to 0.57, respectively.

Conclusions

The prevalence of artefacts increased with magnetic field strength. Titanium generated larger MFD than zirconia. For both materials, artefacts were visible mainly in the crown area. Observer reproducibility needs improvement by dedicated ddMRI training.
Quantification of valvular regurgitation by transthoracic 3D high pulse repetition frequency Doppler echocardiography
Authors: Berg Erik Andreas Rye , Fiorentini Stefano , Avdal Jørgen , Grenne Bjørnar , Stensæth Knut Haakon , While Peter Thomas , Espeland Torvald , Wiseth Rune , Torp Hans , Aakhus Svend
Published: December 2024

Aims

To improve quantification of valvular regurgitation, a 3D high-pulse repetition frequency Doppler (3D HPRFD) method was developed for regurgitant volume (RVol) estimation from transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). Although successfully applied in vitro and in selected clinical cases, a systematic clinical validation of 3D HPRFD has not been published. Hence, our aims were to investigate (i) feasibility of 3D HPRFD and (ii) correlation between 3D HPRFD and RVol estimates obtained by the 2D proximal isovelocity surface area (PISA) method and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) in patients with either aortic regurgitation (AR) or mitral regurgitation (MR).

Methods and results

We included 45 patients with AR (42% mild, 40% moderate, and 18% severe) and 45 with MR (67% mild, 24% moderate, and 9% severe). Median time between start of TTE and start of CMR was 1.5 h, minimizing changes in load. Overall feasibility of 3D HPRFD was 56% in AR and 44% in MR. Feasibility was only 25% in patients with severe regurgitation. In AR, estimated RVol from 3D HPRF did not correlate with estimated RVol from PISA or CMR [Spearman rho = 0.06 (P = 0.78) and 0.04 (P = 0.4), respectively]. In MR, RVol estimates from 3D HPRFD correlated with PISA (rho = 0.72, P < 0.001) but not with CMR (rho = 0.31, P = 0.43).

Conclusion

Regurgitant volume estimation by 3D HPRFD had a low feasibility, especially in severe regurgitation, and in general correlated poorly with PISA and CMR estimates. In its current state, 3D HPRFD is not ready for clinical use.
Trends and disparities in cardiovascular disease–related mortality among adults with myeloproliferative neoplasms in USA
Authors: Agarwal Siddharth , Qamar Usama , Khan Muhammad Shahzeb , Al-Juhaishi Taha , Naqash Abdul Rafeh , Guha Avirup , Yang Eric H , Barac Ana , Ul Abideen Asad Zain
Published: December 2024

Aims

We aimed to perform a retrospective cohort study using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (WONDER) database to analyse the trends in cardiovascular disease (CVD)–related mortality in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) from 1999 to 2020.

Methods and results

We analysed the death certificate data from the CDC WONDER database from 1999 to 2020 for CVD with co-morbid myeloproliferative disorders in the US population. Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed per 1 million population by standardizing crude mortality rates to the 2000 US census population. To assess annual national mortality trends, we employed the Joinpoint regression model, calculating the annual per cent change in AAMR and corresponding 95% CIs. A total of 15 269 deaths related to CVD occurred in patients with co-morbid MPNs from 1999 to 2020. Overall, there was a decreasing trend in CVD-related AAMRs throughout these years. Males contributed to 51% of total deaths, and their AAMR was persistently higher than women throughout the study. Non-Hispanic (NH) Whites had the highest overall AAMR, followed by NH Blacks, NH American Indians or Alaska Natives, Hispanics or Latinos, and NH Asian or Pacific Islanders.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate a significant decline with notable gender, racial/ethnic, and regional differences in CVD-related mortality among patients with MPN over the past two decades. We emphasize the importance of a collaborative approach between oncologists and cardiologists in managing these patients, highlighting the potential benefits of integrating cardio-oncology services to enhance patient outcomes.
Extensive environmental survey of free-living amoebae and their elusive association with Mycobacterium bovis or Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis
Authors: Jessu Amélie , Cochard Thierry , Burtin Mélanie , Crapart Stéphanie , Delafont Vincent , Samba-Louaka Ascel , Biet Franck , Moyen Jean-Louis , Héchard Yann
Published: December 2024

Free-living amoebae (FLA) are described as environmental reservoirs for some bacteria able to resist their phagocytosis. In the environment, the fate of Mycobacterium bovis (Mbo) and Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (Map) responsible for bovine tuberculosis and paratuberculosis, respectively, remains poorly understood and is considered potentially problematic in the eradication and control of these diseases. We hypothesize that FLA may play a role in the persistence of Mbo and Map in the environment. In this study, 90 samples were collected from herds affected by one or both diseases to investigate the diversity of amoeba and their associated bacteria. Metabarcoding analyses revealed that Acanthamoeba, Copromyxa, Naegleria, and Vermamoeba were the most represented genera of FLA, with Pseudomonadota being the bacteria most commonly found associated with FLA. Although no Mbo and Map DNA were identified by sequencing, traces were detected by ddPCR (digital droplet PCR), specifically targeting these bacteria. In conclusion, we described a wide diversity of FLA and associated bacteria in this environment. It also suggests that Map and Mbo could be associated, even weakly, with FLA in the environment. However, this needs to be confirmed by detecting a highest amount of DNA and, if possible, cultivable Map and/or Mbo associated with these environmental FLA.
Near telomere-to-telomere genome assembly of Mongolian cattle: implications for population genetic variation and beef quality
Authors: Su Rina , Zhou Hao , Yang Wenhao , Moqir Sorgog , Ritu Xiji , Liu Lei , Shi Ying , Dong Ai , Bayier Menghe , Letu Yibu , Manxi Xin , Chulu Hasi , Nasenochir Narenhua , Meng He , Herrid Muren
Published: December 2024

Background

Mongolian cattle, a unique breed indigenous to China, represent valuable genetic resources and serve as important sources of meat and milk. However, there is a lack of high-quality genomes in cattle, which limits biological research and breeding improvement.

Findings

In this study, we conducted whole-genome sequencing on a Mongolian bull. This effort yielded a 3.1 Gb Mongolian cattle genome sequence, with a BUSCO integrity assessment of 95.9%. The assembly achieved both contig N50 and scaffold N50 values of 110.9 Mb, with only 3 gaps identified across the entire genome. Additionally, we successfully assembled the Y chromosome among the 31 chromosomes. Notably, 3 chromosomes were identified as having telomeres at both ends. The annotation data include 54.31% repetitive sequences and 29,794 coding genes. Furthermore, a population genetic variation analysis was conducted on 332 individuals from 56 breeds, through which we identified variant loci and potentially discovered genes associated with the formation of marbling patterns in beef, predominantly located on chromosome 12.

Conclusions

This study produced a genome with high continuity, completeness, and accuracy, marking the first assembly and annotation of a near telomere-to-telomere genome in cattle. Based on this, we generated a variant database comprising 332 individuals. The assembly of the genome and the analysis of population variants provide significant insights into cattle evolution and enhance our understanding of breeding selection.
A dataset profiling the multiomic landscape of the prefrontal cortex in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Hausmann Fabian , Caldi Gomes Lucas , Hänzelmann Sonja , Khatri Robin , Oller Sergio , Gebelin Marie , Parvaz Mojan , Tzeplaeff Laura , Pasetto Laura , Zhou Qihui , Zelina Pavol , Edbauer Dieter , Pasterkamp R Jeroen , Rehrauer Hubert , Schlapbach Ralph , Carapito Christine , Bonetto Valentina , Bonn Stefan , Lingor Paul
Published: December 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common motor neuron disease, which still lacks effective disease-modifying therapies. Similar to other neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer and Parkinson disease, ALS pathology is presumed to propagate over time, originating from the motor cortex and spreading to other cortical regions. Exploring early disease stages is crucial to understand the causative molecular changes underlying the pathology. For this, we sampled human postmortem prefrontal cortex (PFC) tissue from Brodmann area 6, an area that exhibits only moderate pathology at the time of death, and performed a multiomic analysis of 51 patients with sporadic ALS and 50 control subjects. To compare sporadic disease to genetic ALS, we additionally analyzed PFC tissue from 4 transgenic ALS mouse models (C9orf72-, SOD1-, TDP-43-, and FUS-ALS) using the same methods. This multiomic data resource includes transcriptome, small RNAome, and proteome data from female and male samples, aimed at elucidating early and sex-specific ALS mechanisms, biomarkers, and drug targets.