bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 and Science Communication: The Recording and Reporting of Disease Mortality
Authors: Arandjelović Ognjen
Published: February 2022

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has brought science to the fore of public discourse and, considering the complexity of the issues involved, with it also the challenge of effective and informative science communication. This is a particularly contentious topic, in that it is both highly emotional in and of itself; sits at the nexus of the decision-making process regarding the handling of the pandemic, which has effected lockdowns, social behaviour measures, business closures, and others; and concerns the recording and reporting of disease mortality. To clarify a point that has caused much controversy and anger in the public debate, the first part of the present article discusses the very fundamentals underlying the issue of causative attribution with regards to mortality, lays out the foundations of the statistical means of mortality estimation, and concretizes these by analysing the recording and reporting practices adopted in England and their widespread misrepresentations. The second part of the article is empirical in nature. I present data and an analysis of how COVID-19 mortality has been reported in the mainstream media in the UK and the USA, including a comparative analysis both across the two countries as well as across different media outlets. The findings clearly demonstrate a uniform and worrying lack of understanding of the relevant technical subject matter by the media in both countries. Of particular interest is the finding that with a remarkable regularity (ρ>0.998), the greater the number of articles a media outlet has published on COVID-19 mortality, the greater the proportion of its articles misrepresented the disease mortality figures.
Physical Layer Security for Military IoT Links Using MIMO-Beamforming at 60 GHz
Authors: Sulyman Ahmed Iyanda , Henggeler Calvin
Published: February 2022

This paper discusses the concept and practicality of internet-of-things (IoT) link security enhancements using multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) and beamforming solutions at the physical layer of the wireless system. Large-scale MIMO and beamforming techniques have been studied extensively in the context of 5G cellular systems. The concept of utilizing these transmission techniques for security enhancements in cellular IoT systems, however, have not yet been fully explored. This article will list a variety of options that may be explored in realizing more secure IoT links using MIMO-beamforming techniques. The paper provides a valuable tutorial for both engineers and researchers working in this field.
Current Practice and Potential Associated with Timber-Based Solutions for Buildings Retrofitting
Authors: Meireis Cláudio , Serino Filipa S. , Maia Carlos , Fontes André C. , Branco Jorge M.
Published: February 2022

Current buildings are responsible for the highest energy consumption, exceeding polluting sectors such as industry and transports. In Portugal, a large part of the building stock was built in the 1970s and 1980s, but buildings dated from the 1960s and 1970s are the ones with the most anomalies and worst quality of construction and, therefore, worst energy performance. The renovation of those buildings can represent an excellent opportunity to correct and improve their energy deficiency and, with that, to promote a more sustainable building stock. The ETICS system is the most used for the renovation of buildings in Portugal due to its lower cost, quick application and thermal efficiency, but it doesn’t solve other problems that may exist, such as structural safety and interior organization of the existing building. The application of prefabricated systems in the envelope has proved to be successful in improving energy efficiency, allowing new volumes and extra areas while contributing to the structural resilience of existing buildings. This paper aims to describe the current situation of the buildings renovation in Portugal and to discuss the potential of innovative envelope retrofitting solutions, using natural materials like timber, and is more concerned with the problems of existing buildings and the need for comfort and space for the occupants.
Reactivity of a Sterical Flexible Pentabenzylcyclopentadienyl Samarocene
Authors: Reinfandt Niklas , Roesky Peter W.
Published: February 2022

Reactivity studies of the classical divalent lanthanide compound [CpBz52Sm] (CpBz5 = pentabenzylcyclopentadienyl-anion) towards diphenyl dichalcogenides and d-element carbonyl complexes led to remarkable results. In the compounds obtained, a different number of Sm-C(phenyl) interactions and differently oriented benzyl groups were observed, suggesting—despite the preference of these interactions in [CpBz52Sm] described in previous studies—a flexible orientation of the benzyl groups and thus a variable steric shielding of the metal center by the ligand. The obtained compounds are either present as monometallic complexes (reduction of the dichalcogenides) or tetrametallic bridged compounds in the case of the d/f-element carbonyl complexes.
Middle-Aged Worker Bees Express Higher Innate Immunity than Young Worker Bees in the Abdomen without the Digestive Tract of Worker Bees Reared in an Incubator
Authors: Lin Yi-Wen , Chen Chia-Hsiang , Hsu Chin-Yuan
Published: February 2022

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) can be reared in an incubator to study the mechanisms of aging and longevity; however, whether breeding in an incubator and using the abdomen without the digestive tract influences the expression of immune genes is unclear. In this study, we assayed the immune genes including abaecin, hymenoptaecin, defensin-2, glucose dehydrogenase, phenoloxidase, and lysozyme from the whole body of young and middle-aged worker bees reared in field hives, the whole body of young and middle-aged worker bees reared in a 34 °C incubator, and the abdomen without the digestive tract of young and middle-aged worker bees reared in a 34 °C incubator. The results showed that three groups of middle-aged worker bees have higher immunity than young worker bees. Furthermore, the similarity of immune genes expression in three groups indicated that the abdomen without the digestive tract of honey bees reared in an incubator can be used to study the relationship between immunity and aging and longevity to avoid the interference of pathogens and parasites from field hives.
The Effect of Temperatures and Hosts on the Life Cycle of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Chen Yi-Chai , Chen De-Fei , Yang Mao-Fa , Liu Jian-Feng
Published: February 2022

The interactions between ambient temperatures and host plants are central to the population dynamics of invasive animal species. Despite significant research into the effects of temperatures, the performance of invasive species is also influenced by host plants. The effects of different temperatures (20, 25, and 30 °C) and host plants (maize, sorghum, and coix seed) were tested on the mortality, development, reproduction, and population parameters of the fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J E Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), using an age-stage, two-sex life table. The results support the hypothesis that temperature and the species of the host plant significantly influences the performance of FAW. Feeding on maize at 30 °C resulted in a lower mortality rate, a shorter developmental time and longevity, a higher fecundity, intrinsic rate of natural increase (r), finite rate of increase (λ), and net reproductive rate (R0). However, at 20 °C, the host plant could eliminate temperature-mediated synergism in FAW performance, which did not reach statistical significance at 20 °C. Similar results induced by a relatively low temperature (20 °C) on different host plants were also found in the age-stage specific survival curves (sxj), fecundity (mx), maternity (lxmx), and reproductive value (vxj) curves of FAW. Consequently, we also need to pay more attention to FAW outbreaks on different host plants mediated by relatively low temperatures.
Upper Body Physical Rehabilitation for Children with Ataxia through IMU-Based Exergame
Authors: Romano Alberto , Favetta Martina , Summa Susanna , Schirinzi Tommaso , Bertini Enrico Silvio , Castelli Enrico , Vasco Gessica , Petrarca Maurizio
Published: February 2022

Background: Children with ataxia experience balance and movement coordination difficulties and needs intensive physical intervention to maintain functional abilities and counteract the disorder. Exergaming represents a valuable strategy to provide engaging physical intervention to children with ataxia, sustaining their motivation to perform the intervention. This paper aims to describe the effect of a home-conducted exergame-based exercise training for upper body movements control of children with ataxia on their ataxic symptoms, walking ability, and hand dexterity. Methods: Eighteen children with ataxia were randomly divided into intervention and control groups. Participants in the intervention group were asked to follow a 12-week motor activity program at home using the Niurion® exergame. Blind assessments of participants’ ataxic symptoms, dominant and non-dominant hand dexterity, and walking ability were conducted. Results: On average, the participants performed the intervention for 61.5% of the expected time. At the end of the training, participants in the intervention group showed improved hand dexterity that worsened in the control group. Conclusion: The presented exergame enhanced the participants’ hand dexterity. However, there is a need for exergames capable of maintaining a high level of players’ motivation in playing. It is advisable to plan a mixed intervention to take care of the multiple aspects of the disorder.
Cholestatic Liver Disease and Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ferrigno Bryan , Barba Romelia , Medina-Morales Esli , Trivedi Hirsh , Patwardhan Vilas , Bonder Alan
Published: February 2022

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) are two types of chronic cholestatic liver disease (CCLD). Little is known regarding the relationship between these conditions and pregnancy. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis regarding the maternal and fetal outcomes amongst patients with a known diagnosis of PBC and PSC undergoing pregnancy. Our analysis shows that patients with PBC and PSC who undergo pregnancy are at an increased risk of pre-term delivery, as well as the development of new or worsening pruritus during pregnancy. Additionally, patients with PBC are at higher risk of undergoing a biochemical disease flare during the postpartum period compared to during pregnancy. However, there were no documented cases of maternal mortality or development of decompensated cirrhosis during pregnancy or the postpartum period.
Selecting the Best Combined Biological Therapy for Refractory Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients
Authors: Mas Eduard Brunet , Calvo Xavier Calvet
Published: February 2022

Current medical treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) does not achieve 100% response rates, and a subset of refractory and severely ill patients have persistent active disease after being treated with all possible drug alternatives. The combination of two biological therapies (CoT) seems a reasonable alternative, and has been increasingly tested in very difficult cases. The present review suggests that CoT seems to be safe and effective for refractory and severely ill IBD patients. Ustekinumab plus vedolizumab and vedolizumab plus anti-TNF were the most used CoTs for Crohn’s disease. For ulcerative colitis, the most used CoTs were vedolizumab plus anti-TNF and vedolizumab plus tofacitinib. The aforesaid CoTs have shown good efficacy and few adverse events have been reported.
Hypothermia for Cardioprotection in Patients with St-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Do Not Give It the Cold Shoulder Yet!
Authors: El Farissi Mohamed , Mast Thomas P. , van de Kar Mileen R. D. , Dillen Daimy M. M. , Demandt Jesse P. A. , Vervaat Fabienne E. , Eerdekens Rob , Dello Simon A. G. , Keulards Danielle C. , Zelis Jo M. , van ‘t Veer Marcel , Zimmermann Frederik M. , Pijls Nico H. J. , Otterspoor Luuk C.
Published: February 2022

The timely revascularization of an occluded coronary artery is the cornerstone of treatment in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). As essential as this treatment is, it can also cause additional damage to cardiomyocytes that were still viable before reperfusion, increasing infarct size. This has been termed “myocardial reperfusion injury”. To date, there is still no effective treatment for myocardial reperfusion injury in patients with STEMI. While numerous attempts have been made to overcome this hurdle with various experimental therapies, the common denominator of these therapies is that, although they often work in the preclinical setting, they fail to demonstrate the same results in human trials. Hypothermia is an example of such a therapy. Although promising results were derived from experimental studies, multiple randomized controlled trials failed to do the same. This review includes a discussion of hypothermia as a potential treatment for myocardial reperfusion injury, including lessons learned from previous (negative) trials, advanced techniques and materials in current hypothermic treatment, and the possible future of hypothermia for cardioprotection in patients with STEMI.
Need for Inclusive Consideration of Transgender and Gender Diverse People in E-Health Services: A Systematic Review
Authors: Renner Janis , Täuber Lars , Nieder Timo O.
Published: February 2022

Many transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people use the internet to find ways out of isolation, network, and share information on health-related topics. Thus, e-health services could reduce the health burden of TGD people and facilitate access to health care. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review on e-health approaches that could improve trans health care (i.e., services directly for TGD people or training programs for health care professionals, HCPs) and their effectiveness, acceptability, and feasibility. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and PubPsych databases for publications from January 2000 to June 2021 with final updates before publication. The systematic review identified e-health services across 27 studies from 8 different countries. Few studies evaluated e-health services exclusively for TGD people. However, use of an e-health service was found to be effective and beneficial: TGD people improved in health-related outcomes, and HCPs improved in professional expertise. Service users find e-health services helpful and easy to integrate into their daily lives. Recommendations for further development of e-health services in trans health care are provided. In the future, given the rapidly evolving e-health research and care field, new treatment approaches for TGD people should be subject to ongoing evaluation and development.
Addition of a Single Low Dose of Anti T-Lymphocyte Globulin to Post-Transplant Cyclophosphamide after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant: A Pilot Study
Authors: Xue Elisabetta , Lorentino Francesca , Lupo Stanghellini Maria Teresa , Giglio Fabio , Piemontese Simona , Clerici Daniela Teresa , Farina Francesca , Mastaglio Sara , Bruno Alessandro , Campodonico Edoardo , Nitti Rosamaria , Marcatti Magda , Assanelli Andrea , Corti Consuelo , Ciceri Fabio , Peccatori Jacopo , Greco Raffaella
Published: February 2022

Correlation between risk of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and CD3+ counts within the peripheral blood stem cell graft has recently been reported in the setting of post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PT-Cy). We aimed to investigate the benefit of the addition of a single dose of anti-T lymphocyte globulin (ATLG 5 mg/kg) to PT-Cy in this setting. Starting in 2019, all patients receiving PBSC transplant containing CD3+ counts above 300 × 106/kg (study group) received a post-transplant dose of ATLG in addition to standard PT-Cy. The study was designed as a real-life analysis and included all consecutive Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) recipients according to the above-mentioned inclusion criterion (n = 21), excluding cord blood and bone marrow donors. Using a 1:2 matched-pair analysis, we compared the outcomes with a historical population who received PT-Cy only (control group). We found a delayed platelet engraftment (29% vs. 45% at 30 days, p = 0.03) and a non-significant trend toward higher risk of poor graft function (29% vs. 19%, p = 0.52). The addition of ATLG impacted long-term immune reconstitution on the CD4+ subsets, but this did not translate into higher rate of relapse or viral infection. Acute GvHD was not significantly impacted, but 1-year cumulative incidence of chronic GvHD was significantly lower in the study group (15% vs. 41%, p = 0.04). Survival outcomes were comparable. In conclusion PT-Cy and ATLG was overall safe and translated into a low rate of chronic GvHD incidence.
Robotic and Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery for Early-Stage Lung Cancer: Comparison of Long-Term Pain at a Single Centre
Authors: Testori Alberto , Giudici Veronica Maria , Voulaz Emanuele , Alloisio Marco , Bottoni Edoardo
Published: February 2022

Backgrounds: Since the application of mini-invasive surgery to pulmonary lobectomy, various studies confirmed the feasibility and the safety of the technique, with equivalent oncological standards. However, there are no studies that compare long-term postoperative pain in minimally invasive thoracic surgery. Methods: Between 1 January 2019 and 28 February 2020, we analysed pain scores at 2 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after the operation, where 50 patients underwent a VATS lobectomy and 50 underwent a RATS lobectomy. Pain scores are obtained through a telephone questionnaire, according to a Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Results: The medias of the NRS scores, at 2 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after the operation were similar in both groups. Group I was composed of 50 patients who underwent a video-assisted lobectomy, while Group II was composed of 50 patients who underwent a robotic-assisted lobectomy. Two weeks after surgery Group I had a NRS value of 2.96 and in Group II it was 2.86; three months after in Group I the value was 2.16 and in Group II it was 2.06; six months after Group I ‘s value was 1.62 and Group II’s was 1.56; one year after in Group I the value was 1.30 and in the Group II was 1.24. For each time interval, no statistically significant differences were found (p > 0.05). Conclusions: In our analysis, RATS and VATS did not have significant differences in post-operative and long-term pain.
A Multicenter Retrospective Study on Clinical Characteristics and Outcome of Pyogenic Liver Abscess Focusing Multidrug-Resistant Organisms
Authors: Park Ji-Won , Kim Jung-Hee , Jung Jang-Han , Kim Sung-Eun , Kim Hyoung-Su , Jeong Haemin , Suk Ki Tae , Jang Myoung-Kuk , Kim Dong-Joon , Lee Myung-Seok , Park Sang-Hoon
Published: February 2022

The emergence of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) is a growing problem worldwide. However, little is known about the incidence, clinical features and outcomes of pyogenic liver abscesses (PLAs) caused by MDROs. A retrospective study of 833 patients with PLA admitted from 2008 to 2017 was performed. MDROs were found in 55 (6.6%) patients, and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae was the most common causative microorganism. To evaluate the clinical features of and risk factors for MDRO-induced PLAs, propensity score matching (PSM) was performed in a 1:3 ratio (55 patients with MDROs and 165 patients without MDROs). After PSM, previous hepatobiliary procedure, preadmission exposure to antibiotics and elevated alkaline phosphatase levels were independent risk factors for MDRO-induced PLA. Sixteen patients (7.3%) died during hospitalization. Admission to intensive care unit (ICU), inadequate initial antibiotic treatment and use of inotropic agents were factors predictive of mortality. Although the presence of MDROs was not associated with in-hospital mortality, inadequate initial antibiotic treatment was prescribed to a large portion of the patients with MDRO-induced PLAs. We conclude that initial empirical antibiotic therapy for PLA should be based on the possibility of infection with MDROs, and close monitoring is necessary for patients with risk factors for in-hospital mortality.
Neurodynamic Functions and Their Correlations with Postural Parameters in Adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Stępień Agnieszka , Pałdyna Beata
Published: February 2022

Knowledge about neurodynamic functions of the nervous system (NS) in patients with idiopathic scoliosis (IS) is limited. This study aimed to assess the mechanosensitivity of the NS structures (MNS) in adolescents with IS. The study included 69 adolescents with IS and 57 healthy peers aged 10–15 years. The Upper Limb Neurodynamic Test 1 (ULNT1), straight leg raise (SLR) test, and slump test (SLUMP) were used to assess MNS. The spinal curvatures in the sagittal plane and selected ranges of motion were measured. The data were analysed using the Mann–Whitney U test and Spearman’s rank correlation. Increased MNS assessed by ULNT1 and SLUMP tests was observed in participants with IS. Values of the neurodynamic tests correlated significantly with the sagittal profile of the spine and the mobility of the spine and lower limbs in both groups. In conclusion, increased MNS occurs in adolescents with IS. Therefore, the examination of adolescents with IS should include an assessment of MNS with the neurodynamic tests. Future studies should investigate this issue to better understand the mechanisms that coexist with IS.
A Digital Health Application Allowing a Personalized Low-Glycemic Nutrition for the Prophylaxis of Migraine: Proof-of-Concept Data from a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Schröder Torsten , Kühn Gianna , Kordowski Anna , Jahromi Soodeh Razeghi , Gendolla Astrid , Evers Stefan , Gaul Charly , Thaçi Diamant , König Inke Regina , Sina Christian
Published: February 2022

Background: Migraine is a headache disorder with the highest socioeconomic burden. The aim of this study was to deliver the first proof-of-concept data of the potential role of an individual low-glycemic diet provided by a novel digital health application in the prophylaxis of migraine. Methods: We analyzed data from a retrospective survey of individuals who participated in a digital nutrition program that provides dietary recommendations based on the individual analysis of continuous glucose measurement from an up to 14-day test phase. A total of 84 individuals completed the retrospective digital survey. The endpoints were changes in the number of migraine days, average duration of attacks, average pain severity, frequency of intake of pain medication, absenteeism, and presenteeism before and after program participation. Results: The intraindividual comparisons of the endpoints before and after program participation revealed decreases in migraine frequency and other patient-relevant migraine parameters. Moreover, patients with a baseline migraine frequency of two and more migraine days per month and adherence to the dietary recommendations (n = 40) showed a mean reduction in migraine days by 33% with a 50%-responder rate of 38%. Conclusions: The data provides emerging evidence that an individualized low-glycemic diet based on continuous glucose measurement could be a promising approach for a diet-based, non-pharmacological migraine prophylaxis. However, future research is required to confirm the implied effectiveness.
Fundamental Frequency Optimization of Variable Angle Tow Laminates with Embedded Gap Defects
Authors: Carvalho João , Sohouli Abdolrasoul , Suleman Afzal
Published: February 2022

Variable stiffness composite laminates can improve the structural performance of composite structures by expanding the design space. This work explores the application of variable stiffness laminated composite structures to maximize the fundamental frequency by optimizing the tow angle. To this end, an optimization framework is developed to design the fiber angle for each layer based on the maximization of the fundamental frequency. It is assumed that the design process includes the manufacturing constraints encountered in the automated fiber placement process and a linear fiber angle variation. The current study improves existing results by considering embedded gap defects within the optimization framework. The plates are assumed symmetric, with clamped and simply supported boundary conditions. The optimal results and a comparison between the non-steered and steered plates with and without gaps are presented. Results show that, although gaps deteriorate the structural performance, fiber steering can still lead to an increase in the fundamental frequency depending on the plate’s geometry and boundary conditions.
Micromanagement of Drosophila Post-Embryonic Development by Hox Genes
Authors: Buffry Alexandra D. , McGregor Alistair P.
Published: February 2022

Hox genes function early in development to determine regional identity in animals. Consequently, the loss or gain of Hox gene expression can change this identity and cause homeotic transformations. Over 20 years ago, it was observed that the role of Hox genes in patterning animal body plans involves the fine-scale regulation of cell fate and identity during development, playing the role of ‘micromanagers’ as proposed by Michael Akam in key perspective papers. Therefore, as well as specifying where structures develop on animal bodies, Hox genes can help to precisely sculpt their morphology. Here, we review work that has provided important insights about the roles of Hox genes in influencing cell fate during post-embryonic development in Drosophila to regulate fine-scale patterning and morphology. We also explore how this is achieved through the regulation of Hox genes, specific co-factors and their complex regulation of hundreds of target genes. We argue that further investigating the regulation and roles of Hox genes in Drosophila post-embryonic development has great potential for understanding gene regulation, cell fate and phenotypic differentiation more generally.
Intraoperative Load Sensing in Total Knee Arthroplasty Leads to a Functional but Not Clinical Difference: A Comparative, Gait Analysis Evaluation
Authors: Giuntoli Michele , Scaglione Michelangelo , Bonicoli Enrico , Piolanti Nicola , Puccioni Gianmarco , Zepeda Karlos , Giannini Emanuele , Marchetti Stefano , Indelli Pier Francesco
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Although Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is a successful procedure, a significant number of patients are still unsatisfied, reporting instability at the mid-flexion range (Mid-Flexion Instability-MFI). To avoid this complication, many innovations, including load sensors (LS), have been introduced. The intraoperative use of LS may facilitate the balance of the knee during the entire range of motion to avoid MFI postoperatively. The objective of this study was to perform a Gait Analysis (GA) evaluation of a series of patients who underwent primary TKA using a single LS technology. Methods: The authors matched and compared two groups of patients treated with the same posterior stabilized TKA design. In Group A, 10 knees were intraoperatively balanced with LS technology, while 10 knees (Group B) underwent standard TKA. The correct TKA alignment was preoperatively determined aiming for a mechanical alignment. Clinical evaluation was performed according to the WOMAC, Knee Society Score (KSS) and Forgotten Joint Score, while functional evaluation was performed using a state-of-the-art GA platform. Results: We reported excellent clinical results in both groups without any statistical difference in patient reported outcome measurements (PROMs); from a functional standpoint, several GA space–time parameters were closer to normal in the sensor group when compared to the standard group, but a statistically significant difference was not reached. Conclusions: Gait Analysis represents a valid method to evaluate TKA kinematics. This study, with its limitations, showed that pressure sensitive technology represents a valid aid for surgeons aiming to improve the postoperative stability of TKA; however, other factors (i.e., level of intra-articular constraint and alignment) may play a major role in reproducing the normal knee biomechanics.
Phylogeography and Genetic Structure of the Swimming Crabs Portunus sanguinolentus (Herbst, 1783) in East Asia
Authors: Lu Yu-Ming , Shih Chun-Han , Chen Po-Cheng , Kao Wei-Chieh , Lee Ying-Chou , Han Yu-San , Tzeng Tzong-Der
Published: February 2022

The three-spot swimming crab (Portunus sanguinolentus) is mainly distributed in South East Asia. An analysis of mitochondrial control region partial sequences allows us to determine the population genetic structure, phylogeography and historical demography of this species in East Asia. The seven populations, which included 110 individuals, were collected from mainland China (Shanghai, SH, Xiamen, XM and Hong Kong, HK), Taiwan (Yilan, YL, Taichung, TC, Donggang, DG) and Singapore (Singapore, SGP). The nucleotide diversity (π) of all individuals was 0.01149, with values ranging from 0.00372 (SGP) to 0.01345 (YL). In total, 90 haplotypes have been identified, which can be divided into two major lineages: lineage A consists of specimens from SH, YL, XM, TC and DG, and lineage B corresponds to specimen from SGP. From the second to the most recent interglacial period, population expansion was observed in each lineage. However, a low level of genetic differentiation was also observed in the three-spotted swimming crab, P. sanguinolentus, according to FST values. Our results suggest that several past and present habitat configurations have shaped the genetic patterns of P. sanguinolentus until now. During Pleistocene glaciations, when sea levels were low, this species may have moved along the coast from Southeast Asia to China. It first colonized the Hong Kong area during this era. After sea levels rose and shorelines receded, it subsequently spread to the coast of mainland China.
On-Site Investigations of Coastal Erosion and Accretion for the Northeast of Taiwan
Authors: Liang Ting-Yu , Chang Chih-Hsin , Hsiao Shih-Chun , Huang Wei-Po , Chang Tzu-Yin , Guo Wen-Dar , Liu Che-Hsin , Ho Jui-Yi , Chen Wei-Bo
Published: February 2022

Coastal erosion is a major natural hazard along the northeastern shoreline (i.e., Yilan County) of Taiwan. Analyses of the evolution of the 0 m isobath of the Yilan County coastline indicate that erosion and accretion are occurring north and south of Wushi Fishery Port, respectively, because of jetty and groin construction. Topographic and bathymetric surveys involving the measurement of 43 cross sections were conducted in 2006, 2012, 2013, and 2019. The cross-shore profile comparisons reveal that the erosion of onshore dunes is significant in the northern Jhuan River estuary. Due to the establishment of a nature reserve in the southern Lanyang River estuary, the sediments are carried northward by tidal currents, and accretion is inevitable in the northern Lanyang River estuary. The results of the bathymetric surveys also suggest that the shoreline of Yilan County tends to accrete in summer because of abundant sediment from the rivers; however, it is eroded in winter, owing to the large waves induced by the northeast monsoon. Additionally, the calculated net volume of erosion and accretion between each pair of cross sections shows that the length of coastline impacted by estuarine sediment transport is approximately 2 km long from north to south along the coastline of the Lanyang River estuary.
An Automatic Search and Energy-Saving Continuous Tracking Algorithm for Underwater Targets Based on Prediction and Neural Network
Authors: Liu Haiming , Xu Bo , Liu Bin
Published: February 2022

Underwater target search and tracking has become a technical hotspot in underwater sensor networks (UWSNs). Unfortunately, the complex and changeable marine environment creates many obstacles for localization and tracking. This paper proposes an automatic search and energy-saving continuous tracking algorithm for underwater targets based on prediction and neural network (ST-BPN). Firstly, the network contains active sensor nodes that can transmit detection signal. When analyzing the reflected signal spectrum, a modified convolutional neural network M-CNN is built to search the target. Then, based on the relationship between propagation delay and target location, a localization algorithm which can resist the influence of clock asynchrony LA-AIC is designed. Thirdly, a scheme based on consensus filtering TS-PSMCF is used to track the target. It is worth mentioning that a predictive switching mechanism, PSM, is added to the tracking process to adjust the working state of nodes. Simulation results show that the recognition accuracy of M-CNN is as high as 99.7%, the location accuracy of LA-AIC is 92.3% higher than that of traditional methods, and the tracking error of TS-PSMCF is kept between 0 m and 5 m.
Course Control of a Manta Robot Based on Amplitude and Phase Differences
Authors: Hao Yiwei , Cao Yong , Cao Yonghui , Huang Qiaogao , Pan Guang
Published: February 2022

Due to external interference, such as waves, the success of underwater missions depends on the turning performance of the vehicle. Manta rays use two broad pectoral fins for propulsion, which provide better anti-interference ability and turning performance. Inspired by biological yaw modes, we use the phase difference between the pectoral fins to realize fast course adjustment and the amplitude difference to realize precise adjustment. We design a bionic robot with pectoral fins and use phase oscillators to realize rhythmic motion. An expected phase difference transition equation is introduced to realize a fast and smooth transition of the output, and the parameters are adjusted online. We combine the phase difference and amplitude difference yaw modes to realize closed-loop course control. Through course interference and adjustment experiments, it is verified that the combined mode is more effective than a single mode. Finally, a rectangular trajectory swimming experiment demonstrates continuous mobility of the robot under the combined mode.
Short-Term Variations in Water Temperature of the Antarctic Surface Layer
Authors: Hu Yuyi , Shao Weizeng , Li Jun , Zhang Chunling , Cheng Lingqiao , Ji Qiyan
Published: February 2022

Against the background of global climate change, the warming water temperature of Antarctic surface water (<500 m) is worthy of study. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate short-term variations in the water temperature of Antarctic surface water from January 2000 to December 2016, using offline coupled ocean models, i.e., the WAVEWATCH-III (WW3) model and the Stony Brook Parallel Ocean Model (sbPOM). The validation of the WW3-simulated significant wave height (SWH) against the measurements from the Jason-2 altimeter produced a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.39 m with a 0.30-m bias. Moreover, the sbPOM-simulated water temperatures were compared with the collocated measurements from Argo buoys, yielding, and RMSE for water temperatures of less than 1.0 °C and a correlation coefficient (COR) of 0.92. The annual variation in the sbPOM-simulated water temperatures of the Antarctic surface water layer showed that the sea surface temperatures (SSTs) of the Pacific Ocean and Atlantic Ocean were greater than the SST of the Indian Ocean. Moreover, the SST rapidly increased to 2 °C in the Pacific Ocean in specific years due to El Nino and La Nina events. The vertical profile of the water temperature showed that the depth of the cool water in the Indian Ocean has decreased to 100 m since 2008, while the depth in the Pacific Ocean and Atlantic Ocean is about 200 m. It was also found that the seasonal variations in the water temperature at depths of 0 m, 50 m, and 100 m in the Pacific Ocean were more sensitive to El Nino events between January and June. However, it was revealed in this work that the increasing intensity of El Nino and La Nina events could reduce water warming in the Pacific Ocean.
Asymmetrical Oscillating Morphology Hydrodynamic Performance of a Novel Bionic Pectoral Fin
Authors: Xing Cheng , Cao Yong , Cao Yonghui , Pan Guang , Huang Qiaogao
Published: February 2022

This research proposes a novel bionic pectoral fin and experimentally studied the effects of the oscillation parameters on the hydrodynamic performance of a bionic experimental prototype. Inspired by manta rays, the bionic pectoral fin was simplified and modeled based on the natural pectoral fin skeleton structure and oscillation morphology of this underwater creature. A dual-degree-of-freedom bionic pectoral fin was designed. The active spatial motion was realized by the space six-link mechanism driven by two motors, and the passive deformation was achieved by carbon fiber. The motion analysis of the bionic pectoral fin proves that the pectoral fin can realize an “8”-shaped spatial trajectory. An experimental prototype was developed accordingly. The experimental prototype could flap between 0.1 Hz and 0.6 Hz and produce a maximum thrust of 20 N. The hydrodynamic performance under different oscillation parameters was studied experimentally in a water pool. The experimental results indicate that the hydrodynamic performance of the pectoral fin oscillation is closely related to the motion equation parameters including the amplitude, frequency, phase difference, and initial bias. In addition to considering the impact of parameters on thrust and lift, the influences of asymmetrical oscillation on the position of the equivalent point were also studied. The results show that the pectoral fin proposed in this research exhibited the expected spatial deformation and outstanding hydrodynamic performance. The obtained results shed light on the updated design and control of a bionic robot fish.
Zooplankton Population and Community Structure Changes in Response to a Harmful Algal Bloom Caused by Prorocentrum donghaiense in the East China Sea
Authors: Shen Anglu , Chen Wenwen , Xu Yongjiu , Ho Kin-Chung
Published: February 2022

Blooms of the dinoflagellate Prorocentrum donghaiense have had adverse impacts on marine ecosystems. However, ecological details, particularly the impacts and processes of the P. donghaiense bloom on the zooplankton community structure are poorly known. We investigated the changes of zooplankton communities in situ within the whole process of a P. donghaiense bloom in the coastal waters in southern Zhejiang Province, China, in May 2016. Results showed that ecological changes during the blooms of P. donghaiense could be divided into three major phases, namely the growth, maintenance, and dissipation phases with regard to the cell abundance of P. donghaiense by bottle sampling of plankton. A total of 42 species of zooplankton were identified. The average abundance and species number of zooplankton in the growth phase were significantly higher than those in the maintenance and dissipation phases. It is shown that the top-two highest proportions of zooplankton in the growth phase were small jellyfishes and copepods, while small jellyfishes and chaetognaths, and copepoda larvae and chaetognaths were the top-two highest in the maintenance and dissipation phases respectively. However, the values of biodiversity index have no statistically significant differences between the three phases. The present results suggested that P. donghaiense bloom produced significant negative impacts on the abundance and species composition of zooplankton with particular reference to copepods.
Numerical and Experimental Study of Hydrodynamic Response for a Novel Buoyancy-Distributed Floating Foundation Based on the Potential Theory
Authors: Qu Xiaobin , Yao Yingxue
Published: February 2022

Floating foundations play a vital role in exploring offshore energy. After analyzing various floating foundation concepts, this paper presents a novel buoyancy-distributed floating foundation (BDFF) inspired by the decentralized concept. The calculations of a floating system based on the BDFF design were performed for a series of wave conditions. The potential theory and the boundary element method (BEM) were used in the numerical progress. A broader view was focused on the impacts of wave frequency and wave directions on the system. The proposed floating system was further validated through wave tests in a wave tank, showing that the potential theory can satisfactorily predict the RAOs in regular waves. Moreover, numerical results and experimental results were compared with a conventional SPAR. Finally, the coupling relationship between six degrees of freedom was described.
Endophytic Fungi Isolated from Baccharis linearis and Echinopsis chiloensis with Antifungal Activity against Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Castro Paulo , Parada Rodolfo , Corrial Carlos , Mendoza Leonora , Cotoras Milena
Published: February 2022

Botrytis cinerea is one of the most important phytopathogens in agriculture worldwide, infecting economically important crops. The main control of this fungus is by synthetic fungicides, causing the selection of resistant isolates. Compounds produced by endophytic fungi have been shown to have antifungal activity against this pathogen and can be used as an alternative to synthetic fungicides. The aim of this work was to isolate endophytic fungi from Chilean foothills in the Metropolitan Region. Ten fungi were isolated from Echinopsis chiloensis and Baccharis linearis, however, only two isolates inhibited the mycelial growth of B. cinerea by antibiosis and were identified as Epicoccum sp. and Pleosporales sp. Extracts at 200 mg L−1 from Epicoccum sp. and Pleosporales sp. showed antifungal activity against B. cinerea of 54.6 and 44.6% respectively. Active compounds in the Epicoccum sp. extracts were mainly alkaloids and phenolic compounds; meanwhile, in the Pleosporales sp. extracts, terpenes and/or saponins were responsible for the antifungal activity.
Experimental Evolution of Multidrug Resistance in Neurospora crassa under Antifungal Azole Stress
Authors: Zhou Mi , Hu Chengcheng , Yin Yajing , Wang Jingji , Ye Shuting , Yu Yifa , Sun Xianyun , Li Shaojie
Published: February 2022

Multidrug resistance, defined as the resistance to multiple drugs in different categories, has been an increasing serious problem. Limited antifungal drugs and the rapid emergence of antifungal resistance prompt a thorough understanding of how the occurrence of multidrug resistance develops and which mechanisms are involved. In this study, experimental evolution was performed under single-azole-drug stress with the model filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa. By about 30 weeks of continuous growth on agar plates containing ketoconazole or voriconazole with weekly transfer, four evolved multidrug-resistant strains 30thK1, 30thK2, 26thV1, and 24thV2 were obtained. Compared to the ancestral strain, all four strains increased resistance not only to commonly used azoles, including ketoconazole, voriconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole, and triadimefon, but also to antifungal drugs in other categories, including terbinafine (allylamine), amorolfine (morpholine), amphotericin B (polyene), polyoxin B (chitin synthesis inhibitor), and carbendazim (β-tubulin inhibitor). After 8 weeks of growth on agar plates without antifungal drugs with weekly transfer, these evolved strains still displayed multidrug-resistant phenotype, suggesting the multidrug resistance could be stably inherited. Transcriptional measurement of drug target genes and drug transporter genes and deletion analysis of the efflux pump gene cdr4 in the evolved strains suggest that overexpression of cdr4 played a major role in the resistance mechanisms for azoles and terbinafine in the evolved strains, particularly for 30thK2 and 26thV1, and evolved drug-resistant strains had less intracellular ketoconazole accumulation and less disruption of ergosterol accumulations under ketoconazole stress compared to wild type. Mutations specifically present in evolved drug-resistant strains were identified by genome re-sequencing, and drug susceptibility test of knockout mutants for most of mutated genes suggests that mutations in 16 genes, functionally novel in drug resistance, potentially contribute to multidrug resistance in evolved strains.
The Multifaceted Roles of Fungal Cutinases during Infection
Authors: Arya Gulab Chand , Cohen Hagai
Published: February 2022

Cuticles cover the aerial epidermis cells of terrestrial plants and thus represent the first line of defence against invading pathogens, which must overcome this hydrophobic barrier to colonise the inner cells of the host plant. The cuticle is largely built from the cutin polymer, which consists of C16 and C18 fatty acids attached to a glycerol backbone that are further modified with terminal and mid-chain hydroxyl, epoxy, and carboxy groups, all cross-linked by ester bonds. To breach the cuticle barrier, pathogenic fungal species employ cutinases—extracellular secreted enzymes with the capacity to hydrolyse the ester linkages between cutin monomers. Herein, we explore the multifaceted roles that fungal cutinases play during the major four stages of infection: (i) spore landing and adhesion to the host plant cuticle; (ii) spore germination on the host plant cuticle; (iii) spore germ tube elongation and the formation of penetrating structures; and (iv) penetration of the host plant cuticle and inner tissue colonisation. Using previous evidence from the literature and a comprehensive molecular phylogenetic tree of cutinases, we discuss the notion whether the lifestyle of a given fungal species can predict the activity nature of its cutinases.
Microbial Keratitis in Nepal: Predicting the Microbial Aetiology from Clinical Features
Authors: Hoffman Jeremy J. , Yadav Reena , Sanyam Sandip Das , Chaudhary Pankaj , Roshan Abhishek , Singh Sanjay Kumar , Arunga Simon , Hu Victor H. , Macleod David , Leck Astrid , Burton Matthew J.
Published: February 2022

Fungal corneal infection (keratitis) is a common clinical problem in South Asia. However, it is often challenging to distinguish this from other aetiologies, such as bacteria or acanthamoeba. In this prospective study, we investigated clinical and epidemiological features that can predict the microbial aetiology of microbial keratitis in Nepal. We recruited patients presenting with keratitis to a tertiary eye hospital in lowland eastern Nepal between June 2019 and November 2020. A structured assessment, including demographics, history, and clinical signs, was carried out. The aetiology was investigated with in vivo confocal microscopy and corneal scrape for microscopy and culture. A predictor score was developed using odds ratios calculated to predict aetiology from features. A fungal cause was identified in 482/642 (75.1%) of cases, which increased to 532/642 (82.9%) when including mixed infections. Unusually, dematiaceous fungi accounted for half of the culture-positive cases (50.6%). Serrated infiltrate margins, patent nasolacrimal duct, raised corneal slough, and organic trauma were independently associated with fungal keratitis (p < 0.01). These four features were combined in a predictor score. The probability of fungal keratitis was 30.1% if one feature was present, increasing to 96.3% if all four were present. Whilst microbiological diagnosis is the “gold standard” to determine the aetiology of an infection, certain clinical signs can help direct the clinician to find a presumptive infectious cause, allowing appropriate treatment to be started without delay. Additionally, this study identified dematiaceous fungi, specifically Curvularia spp., as the main causative agent for fungal keratitis in this region. This novel finding warrants further research to understand potential implications and any trends over time.