Control Methods Research Articles

Gibberellin action‐based strategies show promise in the control of Striga—A major threat to global agriculture

Societal Impact StatementThe root‐parasitic plant Striga hermonthica can cause severe crop failure, leading to significant agricultural and economic losses in Africa. Despite the promising target offered by the Striga seed germination mechanism for developing control methods, effective control methods have yet to be established. For seed germination, Striga must undergo an incubation under warm and humid conditions, a process termed conditioning, which allows it to germinate. Here, we report that the plant hormone gibberellin stimulates the conditioning process in Striga seeds. Our findings suggest that the quantitative control of gibberellin in plants is a promising approach for controlling Striga infestations and may help alleviate substantial threats to food security.Summary The root‐parasitic plant S. hermonthica is a serious agricultural threat in Africa. Although a number of control methods have been employed to combat Striga, there is still a need to develop more effective control methods. Striga seeds germinate only in the presence of host plants, owing to the need for host‐released stimulants, primarily strigolactone. To detect signals from the host, Striga seeds must be exposed to a specific warm, dark, and moist environment, which is known as conditioning. Gibberellin directly promotes germination in many nonparasitic plants, but Striga seeds are insensitive to exogenous gibberellin. Consequently, the role of gibberellin in the germination of Striga seeds is unclear. We demonstrated that the effect of the gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitor paclobutrazol was higher in seeds during the conditioning, compared with those already conditioned, suggesting that gibberellin primarily regulates conditioning rather than germination. The content of an active form gibberellin, gibberellin A4 (GA4) exhibited an increase throughout the conditioning period, and we quantified the elevated expression levels of some gibberellin biosynthesis genes. The GA4 treatment shortened the conditioning period required for strigolactone‐induced seed germination. We also discovered that gibberellin upregulated ShACO1, the gene responsible for ethylene synthesis, during conditioning, and that the inhibition of GR24‐induced germination by the ethylene biosynthesis inhibitor α‐aminoisobutyric acid was gradually alleviated by GA4. Our findings demonstrate that gibberellin is critical for conditioning and germination processes but acts as a minor stimulant in Striga seeds. This study demonstrates the potential of quantitative endogenous gibberellin control for Striga management, providing valuable insights for alleviating food security issues.

Offline Reinforcement Learning for Adaptive Control in Manufacturing Processes: A Press Hardening Case Study

Abstract This paper explores the application of offline reinforcement learning in batch manufacturing, with a specific focus on press hardening processes. Offline reinforcement learning presents a viable alternative to traditional control and reinforcement learning methods, which often rely on impractical real-world interactions or complex simulations and iterative adjustments to bridge the gap between simulated and real-world environments. We demonstrate how offline reinforcement learning can improve control policies by leveraging existing data, thereby streamlining the training pipeline and reducing reliance on high-fidelity simulators. Our study evaluates the impact of varying data exploration rates by creating five datasets with exploration rates ranging from ε=0 to ε=0.8. Using the conservative Q-learning algorithm, we train and assess policies against both a dynamic baseline and a static industry-standard policy. The results indicate that while offline reinforcement learning effectively refines behavior policies and enhances supervised learning methods, its effectiveness is heavily dependent on the quality and exploratory nature of the initial behavior policy.

Combining federated learning and control: A survey

AbstractThis survey provides an overview of combining federated learning (FL) and control to enhance adaptability, scalability, generalization, and privacy in (nonlinear) control applications. Traditional control methods rely on controller design models, but real‐world scenarios often require online model retuning or learning. FL offers a distributed approach to model training, enabling collaborative learning across distributed devices while preserving data privacy. By keeping data localized, FL mitigates concerns regarding privacy and security while reducing network bandwidth requirements for communication. This survey summarizes the state‐of‐the‐art concepts and ideas of combining FL and control. The methodical benefits are further discussed, culminating in a detailed overview of expected applications, from dynamical system modelling over controller design, focusing on adaptive control, to knowledge transfer in multi‐agent decision‐making systems.

Overview of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) Pests and Their Management: A Review

Brinjal (eggplant or aubergine), a widely cultivated vegetable in tropical and subtropical regions, faces significant threats from a variety of insect pests. These pests cause substantial damage at different stages of crop growth, leading to reduced yields and compromised fruit quality. This review provides a comprehensive overview on the major insect pests that affect brinjal cultivation, focusing on their biology, damage mechanisms, and current management practices. Special emphasis is placed on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, combining cultural, biological and chemical control methods to promote sustainable brinjal production.

Response of the tomato leaf miner Phthorimaea absoluta to wild and domesticated tomato genotypes.

Phthorimaea absoluta, a highly destructive invasive pest, poses a significant threat to tomato production globally. Exploring alternative control methods, such as host plant resistance can contribute to diminish reliance on insecticides and promote sustainable integrated pest management (IPM) practices. Thus, the identification of new P. absoluta-resistant tomato cultivars and potential wild sources for breeding programmes remains imperative. We evaluated the effect of 19 tomato genotypes, comprising 16 domesticated varieties and three wild tomato species, on oviposition output of female P. absoluta, as well as on larval performance under no-choice conditions using detached leaves. We also characterized and quantified glandular and nonglandular trichomes, exploring their potential correlation with the response of P. absoluta to the tomato plants. Generally, fewer eggs were oviposited on domesticated plants, whereas the wild tomatoes Solanum arcanum and S. neorickii and the domesticated tomato Corona F1 impaired larval development. The pest larvae consumed a limited area of leaflets from S. arcanum and S. neorickii compared to other genotypes, leading to the lowest weights in both male and female pupae. All tomato plants exhibited a prevalence of nonglandular over glandular trichomes, except for S. arcanum, which exhibited a higher abundance of glandular trichomes. Although higher trichome density correlated with longer larval settlement on the leaflets, it did not influence female oviposition. Our findings demonstrate that the wild tomatoes S. arcanum and S. neorickii could be considered as potential sources for breeding programmes, and the domesticated Corona F1 could offer IPM options against P. absoluta. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Early Sweet Potato Plant Detection Method Based on YOLOv8s (ESPPD-YOLO): A Model for Early Sweet Potato Plant Detection in a Complex Field Environment

Traditional methods of pest control for sweet potatoes cause the waste of pesticides and land pollution, but the target detection algorithm based on deep learning can control the precise spraying of pesticides on sweet potato plants and prevent most pesticides from entering the land. Aiming at the problems of low detection accuracy of sweet potato plants and the complex of target detection models in natural environments, an improved algorithm based on YOLOv8s is proposed, which can accurately identify early sweet potato plants. First, this method uses an efficient network model to enhance the information flow in the channel, obtain more effective global features in the high-level semantic structure, and reduce model parameters and computational complexity. Then, cross-scale feature fusion and the general efficient aggregation architecture are used to further enhance the network feature extraction capability. Finally, the loss function is replaced with InnerFocaler-IoU (IFIoU) to improve the convergence speed and robustness of the model. Experimental results showed that the mAP0.5 and model size of the improved network reached 96.3% and 7.6 MB. Compared with the YOLOv8s baseline network, the number of parameters was reduced by 67.8%, the amount of computation was reduced by 53.1%, and the mAP0.5:0.95 increased by 3.5%. The improved algorithm has higher detection accuracy and a lower parameter and calculation amount. This method realizes the accurate detection of sweet potato plants in the natural environment and provides technical support and guidance for reducing pesticide waste and pesticide pollution.

Pathogen Composition and Fungicide Sensitivity in Rice Spikelet Rot Disease.

Rice spikelet rot disease (RSRD) is an emerging threat to rice crops, with sporadic but severe outbreaks in China in recent years. The composition of its pathogenic fungi has not been consistently identified, and chemical control methods remain unclear. This study aims to characterize the pathogen species responsible for RSRD and develop effective control strategies. Regional variations in disease symptoms and pathogen compositions were analyzed, which led to the identification of six novel pathogens, including Fusarium tanahbumbuense, Alternaria gaisen, Curvularia verruculosa, Curvularia brachyspora, Curvularia muehlenbeckiae, and Curvularia hominis. The pathogenic composition of RSRD exhibited considerable variation across different latitudes within China. Specifically, Alternaria spp. predominated in the Heilongjiang and Liaoning Provinces. Whereas Fusarium spp. and Curvularia spp. were more prevalent in the Hainan and Fujian Provinces. In contrast, Fusarium spp. and Alternaria spp. were the dominant pathogens in the Anhui and Jiangsu Provinces. Furthermore, an assessment of the sensitivity of these predominant pathogens to four chemical compounds was conducted, which led to the identification of potential fungicides for effective disease control. This research provides valuable insights into the pathogenic profile of RSRD across different regions and offers strategic recommendations for fungicide-based management of the disease.

System Identification for Robust Control of an Electrode Positioning System of an Industrial Electric Arc Melting Furnace

Through system identification for robust control methods and utilizing real-time experimental field data, a comprehensive mathematical model is derived that represents the dynamic performance of a single electrode positioning system (EPS) in an industrial electric arc melting furnace (EAF). This EPS is characterized by large, time-varying dynamic parameters, which fluctuate based on operating conditions, specifically as the electrode weight changes within its operational range. The system identification methodology for robust control is developed in four main steps, progressing from experimental design to model validation. This approach yields a nominal model of the actual system and provides a trustworthy estimate of the region of uncertainty of the model, bounded by models of the real system under maximum and minimum electrode weight conditions (limit operating models). The methodology generates three fourth-order time-delay models using an ARMAX structure. The results are promising, as system identification for robust control enables the derivation of mathematical models specifically tailored for designing robust controllers. These controllers significantly enhance the EPS control system’s performance and substantially reduce energy consumption and environmental emissions.

NCMP-10. EFFECT OF EXTENT OF RESECTION ON GLIOMA SEIZURE OUTCOMES BASED ON MOLECULAR GROUPS

Abstract INTRODUCTION Increased extent of resection (EOR) is a known predictor of seizure freedom in glioma patients. However, it is unknown how tumor genomic alterations affect EOR-induced seizure control. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the genotype-specific impact of EOR on post-operative seizure control METHODS Records of 553 glioma patients who underwent tumor resection from 2012-2023 were reviewed. All patient tumors were analyzed with next generation sequencing and FISH analysis. The unsupervised machine learning algorithm non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) was used to cluster the genomic data. Clinical variables including extent of resection of contrast enhancing tumor and non-enhancing tumor, temozolomide therapy, and radiation therapy were analyzed using Cox Proportional Hazards models. RESULTS NMF clustering of tumor sequencing data revealed four molecular groups: Group 1 (n=56): CDKN2a loss, EGFR copy number gain or mutation, TERT promoter (TERTp) mutation, and MGMT methylated; Group 2 (n=27): IDH mutation, TP53 mutation, and MGMT methylated; Group 3 (n=60): TP53 mutation, TERTp mutation and MGMT methylated; Group 4 (n=244): MGMT unmethylated. Thresholds in the post-operative residual non-enhancing tumor volume (NETV) were identified which marked the most difference in seizure control. For patients in Group 1, the NETV threshold that led to improved epilepsy outcomes was <94.7 cc (p=0.047), whereas the threshold for Group 4 was <89.1 cc (p=0.016). When analysis was conducted for Group 2, the threshold of 10.2 cc failed to reach significance (p=0.1). Interestingly, the threshold analysis for Group 3 found that having a NETV of > 10.1 cc showed improved seizure outcomes (p=0.016). A multivariable cox proportional hazard analysis found that twelve-month seizure freedom was predictive of better OS in group 1 (HR 0.02, p=0.05) and group 4 (HR 0.21, p=1.63e-9). CONCLUSION Our study reveals clinically distinct molecular groups of glioma that display different seizure responses. This data suggests a tumor-specific approach to aggressiveness of extent of resection in order to achieve optimal seizure control.

Agronomic Practices for Management of Ginger Bacterial wilt Disease: A Review

Ginger is one of the most important spices, particularly for small-scale farmers in Ethiopia. However, bacterial wilt is a major constraint to ginger production, and it was reported for the first time in 2012. The disease is caused by the bacteria <i>Ralstonia</i> <i>solanacearum</i>. Common symptoms in infected plants include wilting, stunting, yellowing of foliage, and rhizome rot. The disease is now widespread across all ginger-growing regions worldwide, spreading through soil, water, infected rhizomes, and plant debris. A major challenge in managing bacterial wilt has been the lack of effective control methods. This review primarily focuses on recent advances in control measures, including agronomic and cultural practices such as soil amendment, rhizome treatment, and other cultural practices. Soil and rhizome solarization has proven to be a cost-effective method that is compatible with other pest management tactics. Furthermore, the use of organic matter such as crop residue and animal manure has been investigated as a means of inducing <i>R. solanacearum</i> suppression since it enhances the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of soil. The application of certain plants and their essential oils as bio-fumigants has also been examined as an alternative approach to managing bacterial wilt as part of an integrated disease management system. Crop rotation, tillage, and field sanitation play vital roles in disease management. Furthermore, other farm practices, such as the use of healthy seeds, cultivation in disease-free areas, cover crops, bio-mulch, and regular field inspection, also contribute to the suppression of this pathogen. Overall, employing agronomic and cultural practices in combination with an integrated disease management strategy offers a promising approach for controlling bacterial wilt and ensuring sustainable ginger production.

Enhancing Offshore Wind Turbines Performance with Hybrid Control Strategies Using Neural Networks and Conventional Controllers

Abstract A wind turbine is a complex energy converter that requires a robust control solution to overcome performance limitations caused by its mechatronics and external disturbances. Within the turbine operation regions, in the area below the nominal power, the challenge of achieving a precise and highly efficient response must be addressed using multi-objective control strategies that can also contribute to the stability of the structure, reducing vibrations. In this work, a control architecture to maximize the power generation and minimize the vibrations is proposed. Based on this architecture four different hybrid control strategies exploiting radial basis function neural networks and conventional regulators are proposed to cover this twofold objective. The controllers calculate the appropriate electromagnetic torque to track the maximum power point and thus achieve the generation of maximum power, while reducing the acceleration of the tower movement. The neural controllers use a non-supervised learning algorithm to adaptively adjust the weights of the neuros to better couple to the wind turbine dynamics. These combined control methods are tested on a 5 MW floating offshore wind turbine under the influence of winds and waves. The results show that these hybrid strategies are valid for achieving a more efficient response and decreasing turbine fatigue, thus extending their lifetime.

FORMATION OF A CONTROL SYSTEM IN AN AGRO-INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISE

The article examines the importance of control in the management systems of agro-industrial enterprises, which is critical for ensuring their stability and effectiveness in a dynamic environment. The aim of the article is to analyze, systematize, generalize, and improve the theoretical and methodological foundations for the formation of a control system in an agro-industrial enterprise. It is determined that in the context of constant changes affecting agriculture, the control function becomes particularly significant as it helps adapt enterprises to new challenges and prevents negative consequences. The study presents the elements of the control system in agro-industrial enterprises, which include: planning (establishing goals, defining standards, and developing plans that serve as a basis for further monitoring and control), monitoring (constant collection and analysis of information on the execution of production processes), deviation analysis (evaluating performance results and comparing them with planned indicators), and feedback mechanisms (providing information on the effectiveness of production processes and their results, which is used to update plans and improve subsequent stages of control). Key control tools applicable at all stages of agro-industrial enterprises' activities are presented: planning and forecasting, result analysis and reporting, monitoring and information, auditing and inspections, quality control of products, budgeting, verification and compliance with environmental standards, personnel management, risk management, and technological control. It is found that timely application of control tools helps avoid losses and maintain high product quality. The purpose of control is justified as ensuring compliance of all production processes with established plans and standards to achieve economic efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality. The study allowed for the identification of the significance of integrating modern control methods and information technologies, which significantly enhance the effectiveness of management processes. It is noted that the application of modern technologies, such as ERP systems, IoT, and analytical platforms, significantly improves control over all stages of production and supply.

“I don’t like guns but having one in Winnipeg right now would feel safer”: Crime, liquor theft, and online fantasies of punishment and control

In 2018–2019, there was a surge of local news media coverage in Winnipeg, Canada about what news media described as “brazen” liquor store theft. Online discussion and social media platforms provided segments of the public with opportunities to assert claims about the causes and consequences of this putative crime wave as well as potential solutions within and outside the penal system. These online fora allowed internet communities to imagine new methods of crime control and vocalize a range of emotions about crime and punishment. Employing a thematic analysis of reader comments across several online and social media platforms, we argue that these online discussions about liquor theft provide an empirical case study of the new digital media logic that facilitates highly volatile and short-lived moral panics or “firestorms.” We draw upon cultural criminology scholarship to highlight the centrality of emotion in online discussions on liquor theft. By making emotion central, online discussions provide a clearer glimpse into the displaced rage that is thought to set moral panics in motion. We argue that online platforms constitute an important medium to understand how people imagine and envision punishment and control, as well as how they construct/conceive of offenders and the purported problems underlying crime.

A Novel Nonlinear Adaptive Control Method for Longitudinal Speed Control for Four-Independent-Wheel Autonomous Vehicles

As autonomous driving technology and four-independent-wheel chassis systems advance, four-independent-wheel autonomous vehicles have increasingly become a focal area of modern research. The longitudinal control problem for four-independent-wheel autonomous vehicles presents challenges such as complex models, high nonlinearity, and strong system uncertainties. This paper proposes a novel hierarchical control algorithm to address these challenges, innovatively combining the advantages of adaptive backstepping and dynamic sliding mode control algorithms in the upper controller, allowing it to effectively overcome the impact of uncertain system parameters and suppress the common chattering phenomenon in the output of typical sliding mode control methods. Based on the design of the upper controller, an innovative optimized longitudinal force distribution strategy and the construction of a tire reverse longitudinal slip model are proposed, followed by the design of a fuzzy PID controller as the lower slip ratio controller to achieve precise whole-vehicle longitudinal speed tracking and improve overall control performance. This method not only improves the accuracy of speed tracking but also enhances the robustness and adaptability of the control system. Finally, the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed hierarchical control method are verified through CarSim simulations.

Monitoring of pyrethroid resistance in Aedes aegypti: first report of double and triple kdr mutations in Buenos Aires Province

BackgroundDengue is an emerging disease in Argentina due to the colonization of Aedes aegypti, the mosquito vector. Buenos Aires Province is the biggest and most populated district in Argentina, suffering dengue outbreaks of growing magnitude. During epidemic periods, pyrethroid insecticides are used in this country to control adult mosquitoes. Pyrethroid resistance in dengue vectors has been reported worldwide, making it necessary to implement resistance management strategies. The voltage-gated sodium channel is the target site of pyrethroids. Mutations in the gene encoding this protein, called kdr mutations, are usually the molecular cause of pyrethroid resistance in insects. In Ae. aegypti from the Americas, three kdr substitutions were described: V410L, V1016I, and F1534C. The diagnostic of kdr mutations is recommended for the early detection of pyrethroid resistance as well as the consequent planning of evidence-based control policies.MethodsWe distributed ovitraps across 16 localities in Buenos Aires Province, collecting 22,123 eggs. A total of 522 mosquitoes were genotyped in positions 1016 and 1534 of voltage-gated channel using multiplex high-resolution melting and/or TaqMan probe methods. A subset of 449 samples was also genotyped by a singleplex high-resolution melting method developed ad hoc and/or Sanger sequencing.ResultsWe have documented, for the first time to our knowledge in the central region of Argentina, the presence of the 1016Ikdr + 1534Ckdr allele. Additionally, our study reports the first identification of the V410L mutation in central Argentina. These results underscore a growing trend of pyrethroid resistance in Ae. aegypti, fueled by the widespread use of these insecticides.ConclusionsWe detected 1016Ikdr + 1534Ckdr and 410Lkdr mutations in central Argentina for the first time and improved the processivity and accuracy of kdr genotyping methods. The results are both a tool for resistance monitoring and a sign of alarm to direct efforts towards finding sustainable methods for vector control to complement or replace pyrethroids. Joint efforts between academia and authorities to develop and implement public policies for vector control are a productive way to transfer scientific results for their application in public health.Graphical

Dual Control Strategy for Non-Minimum Phase Behavior Mitigation in DC-DC Boost Converters Using Finite Control Set Model Predictive Control and Proportional–Integral Controllers

Model Predictive Control (MPC) has emerged as a promising alternative for controlling power converters, offering benefits such as flexibility, simplicity, and rapid control response, particularly when short-horizon algorithms are employed. This paper introduces a system using a short-horizon Finite Control Set MPC (FCS-MPC) strategy to specifically address the challenge of non-minimum phase behavior in boost converters. The non-minimum phase issue, which complicates the control process by introducing an initial inverse response, is effectively mitigated by the proposed method. A Proportional–Integral (PI) controller is integrated to dynamically adjust the reference current based on the output voltage error, thereby enhancing overall system stability and performance. Unlike conventional PI-MPC methods, where the PI controller has an influence on the system dynamics, the PI controller in this approach is solely used for tuning the reference current needed for the FCS-MPC controller. The PI controller addresses small deviations in output voltage, primarily due to model prediction inaccuracies, ensuring steady-state accuracy, while the FCS-MPC handles fast dynamic responses to adapt the controller’s behavior based on load conditions. This dual control strategy effectively balances the need for precise voltage regulation and rapid adaptation to varying load conditions. The proposed method’s effectiveness is validated through a multi-stage simulation test, demonstrating significant improvements in response time and stability compared to traditional control methods. Hardware-in-the-loop testing further confirms the system’s robustness and potential for real-time applications in power electronics.

ACTIVE, ACTUATED, AND ASSISTIVE: A SCOPING REVIEW OF EXOSKELETONS FOR THE HANDS AND WRISTS

BACKGROUND: Assistive technology is often incorporated into rehabilitation and support for those impacted by upper limb impairments. When powered, these devices provide additional force to the joints of users with muscle weakness. Actuated devices allow dynamic movement compared to splints, therefore improving the ability to complete activities of daily living. However, these devices are not often prescribed and are underrepresented in research and clinical settings. OBJECTIVE: This review examines the current body of literature concerning devices designed to aid the hands and wrists in daily activities. Focusing on active, powered, and actuated devices, to gain a clearer understanding of the current limitations in their design and prescription. METHODOLOGY: The scoping review was conducted using the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A systematic search was done on MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, and NHS the Knowledge Network from inception to May 2023. Articles were included if the device was portable; supported the hands and wrist actively using an actuator; and could be used for assistive living during or post-rehabilitation period. FINDINGS: A total of 135 studies were included in the analysis of which 34 were clinical trials. The design and control methods of 121 devices were analyzed. Electrical stimulation and direct mechanical transmission were popular actuation methods. Electromyography (EMG) and joint movement detection were highly used control methods to translate user intentions to device actuation. A total of 226 validation methods were reported, of which 44% were clinically validated. Studies were often not conducted in operational environments with 69% at technology readiness levels ≤ 6, indicating that further development and testing is required. CONCLUSION: The existing literature on hand and wrist exoskeletons presents large variations in validation methods and technical requirements for user-specific characteristics. This suggests a need for well-defined testing protocols and refined reporting of device designs. This would improve the significance of clinical outcomes and new assistive technology. Layman's Abstract Assistive devices are often incorporated into rehabilitation and support for those impacted by upper limb impairments. When powered, these devices provide additional force for users with muscle weakness. Unlike splints, these devices do not constrict movement, therefore improving the ability to complete activities of daily living. However, these devices are rarely prescribed or presented in research and clinical settings. This review examines the current literature concerning powered devices that aid the hands and wrists to investigate who uses them, how they are designed and how they are validated. The scoping review was conducted using a validated guideline. A systematic search was done on 5 databases up to May 2023. Articles were included if the device was portable; supported the hands and wrist using motors; and could be used for everyday tasks. A total of 135 studies were included in the analysis, of which 34 were clinical trials. The design and method of device function of 121 devices were analysed. Muscle and joint movement detection were highly used to control device movement. A total of 226 validation methods were reported, of which 44% were clinically validated. Studies were often conducted in research and clinical environments (69%) rather than at home settings. In conclusion, existing literature on hand and wrist exoskeletons presents large variations in design, control methods and validation practices. This suggests a need for well-defined testing protocols. This would improve the significance of clinical outcomes of new assistive technology. Article PDF Link: https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/43827/33279 How To Cite: Galbert A, Buis A. Active, actuated, and assistive: A scoping review of exoskeletons for the hands and wrists. Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal. 2024; Volume 7, Issue 1, No.9. https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v7i1.43827 Corresponding Author: Professor Arjan Buis, PhDDepartment of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland.E-Mail: arjan.buis@strath.ac.ukORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3947-293X

The role of local and systemic control methods in the treatment of oligometastatic breast cancer, taking into account biological subtypes (literature review)

Combined methods of treatment of oligometastatic breast cancer (OMBC) based on systemic drug treatment and local treatment methods - stereotactic radiation therapy (SRT) or surgical treatment - are not included in current clinical guidelines. The European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) recommends the use of local control methods for patients with breast cancer without taking into account the biological subtype of the tumor. This review presents a modern understanding of the oligometastatic biological subtype based on data from clinical studies on this topic, which could contribute to decision-making in real clinical practice.The aim of the review is analysis of the effectiveness of combined treatment methods: systemic drug therapy and local treatment methods (SRT) or surgical treatment of breast cancer of various molecular genetic subtypes.To assess the clinical effectiveness of various approaches to the treatment of breast cancer, depending on the biological subtype, a search was conducted for scientific publications in the Medline bibliographic database. Prospective and retrospective studies demonstrate an increase in the effectiveness of treatment through a combination of systemic therapy and local control methods (surgical treatment or SRT) OMBC depending on the biological subtypes. In hormonepositive breast cancer with bone damage, SRT is most preferable, whereas in visceral oligometastases, surgical treatment is recommended. For immunocompetent tumors of triple-negative and HER2-positive biological subtypes of breast cancer, surgical treatment of OMBC is not recommended, except in cases where the positive status of HER2 is combined with a high level of expression of hormonal receptors or metastatic bone damage.The results of current prospective studies focusing on certain biological subtypes of breast cancer will help further determine the role of this strategy in the treatment of this cohort of patients. Understanding the characteristics of the tumor process in breast cancer will allow you to personalize the treatment of patients with this disease.

PHENOMENON OF BACTERIAL RESISTANCE IN OIL PRODUCTION AND GATHERING SYSTEM

In this paper, the active substances of bactericides and the mechanisms of their action are considered. Information on the mechanism of bacterial adsorption to the metal surface, which forms the most corrosive form of bacterial colonies – the adhered one – is presented. Methods of biological contamination control, both physical and chemical, are also considered. The mechanism of bactericidal action of chemical compositions consisting of 3 stages (interaction with water, interaction of bactericide aqueous solutions with bacterial cell membranes, interaction of bactericide with cytoplasmic membrane) is also reviewed. The main types of bacterial resistance common in water circulation systems, reservoir pressure maintenance systems, oil production, transportation, gathering and storage systems are summarized. The mechanisms of occurrence of each type of manifestation and method of spreading resistance between colonies are considered. It is important to note that at the moment, methods to control each of the cases of resistance when using bactericides in oil production have been poorly studied, while constant and non-alternating dosing of reagents leads to bacteria mutation and a decrease in the effectiveness of bactericidal action, which, in turn, leads to significant technological problems and economic costs. Therefore, an important step in choosing bactericides, types and methods of treating an infected environment is to study bacterial resistance. The article accumulates and summarizes information on the methods currently used to prevent bacterial resistance.

A review of finite control set model predictive control for linear machines

AbstractLinear machines (LMs) have become excellent candidates for linear motion applications due to their abilities of generating thrust without any transmissions, and have been widely adopted in transportation, industries etc. Among the numerous control methods of LM drive systems, finite control set model predictive control (FCS‐MPC) method has been given special attention due to its clear concept, fast response performance, and ability to handle constrained multivariate non‐linear control problems. It is widely used to improve the performance and efficiency of overall LM drive systems. Firstly, based on the three elements of FCS‐MPC, the advantages and shortcomings of the FCS‐MPC method in applications are fully investigated. The research status in FCS‐MPC has been summarised, such as multistep MPC, parameters robustness improvement, fast optimisation, and multi‐vector MPC. Then, the key issues in FCS‐MPC such as delay compensation, parameters design, and stability analysis are discussed, and their typical research methods and current research status are explained. Finally, the future development trends of FCS‐MPC in LM drive systems are discussed.