bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asymptotic Modeling of Optical Fibres: Annular Capillaries and MOFs
Authors: Luzi Giovanni , Klapper Vinzenz , Delgado Antonio
Published: November 2023

Microstructured optical fibres (MOFs) are a new type of optical fibres that possess a wide range of optical properties and many advantages over common optical fibres. Those are provided by unique structures defined by a pattern of periodic or quasi-periodic arrangement of air holes that run through the fibre length. In recent years, MOFs have opened up new possibilities in the field of optics and photonics, enabling the development of advanced devices and novel optical systems for different applications. The key application areas of PCFs vary from telecommunications and high-power energy transmission to quantum optics and sensing. The stack-and-draw method is a standard manufacturing technique for MOFs, where a preform is first manually created and then drawn in a high-tech furnace into a fibre with the required final dimensions and position of the air holes. Since in the manufacturing process experimenters can control only a few parameters, mathematical models and numerical simulations of the drawing process are highly requested. They not only allow to deepen the understanding of physical phenomena occurring during the drawing process, but they also accurately predict the final cross-section shape and size of the fibre. In this manuscript, we assume thermal equilibrium between the furnace and the fibre and propose a functional form of the fibre temperature distribution. We utilise it with asymptotic mass, momentum, and evolution equations for free surfaces already available in the literature to describe the process of fibre drawing. By doing so, the complex heat exchange problem between the fibre and the furnace need not be solved. The numerical results of the whole asymptotic model overall agree well with experimental data available in the literature, both for the case of annular capillaries and for the case of holey fibres.
Experimental Investigation and Mechanism Analysis of Direct Aqueous Mineral Carbonation Using Steel Slag
Authors: Zhu Fuxia , Cui Longpeng , Liu Yanfang , Zou Liang , Hou Jili , Li Chenghao , Wu Ge , Xu Run , Jiang Bo , Wang Zhiqiang
Published: November 2023

The carbonation of industrial calcium-rich byproducts such as steel slag demonstrates significant potential for CO2 sequestration. This technique aids in reducing carbon emissions while also promoting waste recycling. Despite its advantages, gaps remain in understanding how steel slag characteristics and operational parameters influence the carbonation process, as well as the underlying mechanism of direct aqueous carbonation. We evaluated the carbonation performance of three types of steel slag at temperatures below 100°C using a gas–liquid–solid reaction system. The slag with the highest CO2 sequestration capacity was chosen for a systematic evaluation of the effects of operating conditions on carbonation efficiency. Thermodynamic analysis indicated that the reactivity of CaO and Ca(OH)2 with CO2 exceeded that of CaO•SiO2 and 2CaO•SiO2. Under conditions of 85°C, a particle size less than 75 μm, an initial CO2 pressure of 0.5 MPa, a liquid-to-solid ratio of 5 mL/g, and a stirring speed of 200 rpm, the steel slag achieved a sequestration capacity (K) of 283.5 gCO2/kg and a carbonation efficiency (ζCa) of 51.61%. Characterization of the slag before and after carbonation using X-ray diffraction, SEM‒EDS, thermogravimetric analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry confirmed the formation of new carbonates. Mechanistic analysis revealed that the rate-limiting step initially involved the mass transfer of CO2, transitioning to Ca2+ mass transfer as time progressed. Our research provides a viable technique for CO2 capture and a beneficial approach for reutilizing waste steel slag. Furthermore, solid residues after capturing CO2 have the potential for conversion into carbon-negative building materials, offering a sustainable strategy for steel companies and other enterprises with high carbon emissions.
Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function in Preschool (Brief-P) and Attention-Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD): Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Floor and Ceiling Effects
Authors: Bausela-Herreras Esperanza , Alonso-Esteban Yurena , Alcantud-Marín Francisco
Published: November 2023

Background. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is accompanied by executive deficits. Objectives. To obtain evidence of the usefulness of the BRIEF-P and to analyse the possible ceiling and floor effect of its scores in the assessment of executive function in preschoolers with signs compatible with a possible diagnosis of ADHD. Methods. Seven articles were selected from 2538 potentially eligible articles from different databases. We included studies assessing samples of individuals with symptoms compatible with ADHD, with age range 2-6 years, published in English or Spanish, during the period 2012-2022. References published in: Science Direct, NCBI (PubMed), ProQuest Education Journals in the last decade. Risk of bias was assessed using the QUADAS-2 questionnaire. The main variables were: age and executive functioning. Conclusions. Executive deficits in early-life individuals with ADHD-compatible symptoms are more extensive than deficits in working memory. BRIEF-P is an instrument that facilitates obtaining a sensitive and discriminative executive profile. It should be used in combination with other neuropsychological performance tests, finding a floor effect in tests associated with warm executive functions and a ceiling effect in cold executive functions. This requires using a variety of tests to assess executive performance in preschoolers with symptoms compatible with ADHD and designing intervention proposals in line with them...
Enhancing the Storability of Hardy Kiwifruit (Actinidia arguta cv. ‘Ken´s Red’) with Edible Coatings during Postharvest Handling
Authors: Guerreiro Adriana , Gago Custódia , Passos Dário , Martins J. A. , Cruz Sandra P. , Veloso Fernão , Guerra Rui , Antunes Maria Dulce
Published: November 2023

The kiwiberry is a trendy variety that shows a high demand for consumption but presents commercialization challenges due to its short life. The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of edible alginate coatings in prolonging the shelf life of this fruit. Two different forms were tested (coarse emulsions(C) and nanoemulsions(N)) and the effects of two different coating application techniques (spraying(S) and dipping(D)) were tested. Additionally, the use of Vis-NIR for quality monitorization was assessed as well. Fruits were treated with ten different treatments, using the following base formulations:Alginate(AL) 2%(w/v) enriched with eugenol(Eug) and citral(Cit) at minimum inhibitory concentrations (0.10% and 0.15%) and double MIC. Samples were taken from cold storage (0° C), at 2 and 4 weeks. For fruit quality evaluation, colour analysis, firmness, soluble solids content, dry matter and weight loss were performed. During storage, the colour and SSC parameters increased. Firmness decreased over time.Weight loss was the parameter with higher significant differences, increasing over time and more pronounced in treatments with higher essential oils components. This study suggests that AL-S, AL-D, AL-Cit 0.15+Eug0.1-N-S, AL-Cit0.15+Eug0.1-N-D and AL-Cit0.15+Eug0.1-C-D can preserve kiwiberries quality. Moreover, we verify that the Vis-NIR spectral analysis could be beneficial for performing coatings discrimination.
Graphite Nanoplatelets Films as Multifunctional Protective Layer in Kevlar/Nomex Sandwich Composites
Authors: Cilento Fabrizia , Palmieri Barbara , Giusto Giovangiuseppe , Volponi Ruggiero , Bruno Giovanni , Carandente Carmine , Toscano Cinzia , Giordano Michele , Martone Alfonso
Published: November 2023

In the aerospace sector, structural and non-structural components are usually subjected to a wide range of environmental conditions. Although lightweight, the use of composite parts for these applications is restricted, due to their poor performance in severe environmental conditions. Specifically, moisture can seriously damage the materials' performance, reducing their mechan-ical, thermal, electrical, and physical properties as well as the service time. A strategy to improve the materials’ resistance in humid environments is the use of protective lightweight barrier coatings to reduce the diffusion of gases and/or liquids in composites. Nanolamellar nanocom-posite characterized by the high in-plane orientation of nanoplatelets effectively works as barrier structures by generating tortuous paths for molecule diffusion. In this work, the effectiveness of protection against water uptake of nanocomposites reinforced with Graphite NanoPlatelets (GNPs) at high filler content (70, 80 and 90%wt) for Kevlar sandwich panels of a nacelle engine of an ATR42 aircraft has been investigated. Moisture uptake and Ground Air Ground (GAG) tests were carried out in an environmental chamber to reproduce temperature and relative humidity profiles representative of a real-scale application for a regional aircraft composite part. The high filler content of the graphene films ensures a high level of tortuosity by delaying and reducing moisture absorption by –71% compared to the unprotected panel, showing good barrier properties.
Solubilized Formulations of Triphenylphosphine Derivatives of Allylbenzenes and Their Potential as Individual Antitumor Agents or Adjuvants to Paclitaxel
Authors: Zlotnikov Igor D. , Krylov Sergey S. , Semenova Marina N. , Semenov Victor , Kudryashova Elena V.
Published: November 2023

Allylbenzenes (apiol, dillapiol, myristicin and allyltetramethoxybenzene) are individual components of plant essential oils that demonstrate antitumor activity, as well as enhancing effect on cytotoxic drugs such as paclitaxel, doxorubicin, cisplatin, etc. Triphenylphosphine (PPh3) derivatives of allylbenzenes are 2-3 orders of magnitude more potent than allylbenzenes in terms of IC50. Inhibition of efflux pumps has been reported for allylbenzenes, and PPh3 moiety is deemed to be responsible for preferential mitochondrial accumulation and depolarization of mitochondrial membranes. However, due to poor solubility the practical use of these substances has never been an option. Cyclodextrin-based (CD) molecular containers suggested here provided solubilization of allylbenzenes and its PPh3-derivatives. So, in this study we have observed an increase antitumor activity of paclitaxel in the presence of PPh3-derivatives adjuvants by an order of magnitude (in terms of IC50) against adenocarcinomic human alveolar basal epithelial cells A549. At the same time, they are quite powerful cytostatics themselves against A549 cells. On the other hand, the cytotoxic formulations developed show pronounced selectivity of the antiproliferation activity: high against tumor cells line (A549) and low toxicity of these composition was demonstrated on normal cells HEK293T, red blood cells, and sea urchin embryos (a model close to the human genome). On non-cancer HEK293T cells, it was shown that PPh3-derivatives of allylbenzenes at a concentration of 100 µM cause the death of about 20% of cells, while on A549 cancer cells, 85% of cells die. PPh3 derivatives of allylbenzenes, when solubilized in CD molecular containers, show remarkable potential as adjuvants to some of the widely used cytotoxic drugs.
Development of a Novel Flight Time Matrix for Nondestructive Evaluation Using Acousto-Ultrasonics
-	A Case Study of Multilayered Armor Plates Damage Detection
Authors: Tankersley Stephen James , Qi Gang
Published: November 2023

We proposed a novel concept of flight time matrix (FTM). In this work, the proposed FTM was verified first numerically. The numerical simulation revealed perfect results which showed that FTM can be used to assist the nondestructive evaluation of ballistic armor plates using acousto-ultrasonics. Two donated commercial ballistic armor plates were sought for a case study where artificial defects were prepared. The results of FTM were reasonably well. The artificial defects were clearly identifiable in one directional location array and FTM contour graphs. More comprehensive superimpositions of flight time vs location and FTM contour plots can be advanced to a better visualization of the defect presence. The resolution of FTM method is in the range of submillimeter or less. This study demonstrated that AU (acousto-ultrasonics) technique is a field applicable and yet reliable tool for inspection of the hidden defects in body armors. A broader merit of the proposed FTM algorithm is that it may promote the development of specific tools/device for nondestructive evaluations field.
Development of the Food Boost Challenge: A Participatory Action Research Approach to Enhance Vegetable and Fruit Consumption among Adolescents
Authors: Van Lieshout Machteld , Scholtes-Bos Wendy , Van der Horst-Graat Judith M. , Van Holsteijn Puck , De Vries Sanne I.
Published: November 2023

The Food Boost Challenge (FBC) was developed using a participatory action research approach to enhance healthy eating behaviors, here vegetable and fruit products (V&F-products) among adolescents, particularly those with lower education levels. FBC is a quadruple helix innovation process, involving adolescents, (peer)researchers, and food system partners of non-governmental and commercial organizations. In 2021-2022, 34 partners provided both cash and in-kind contributions to join the FBC-community. Phase 1 involved 200 students identifying barriers and drivers for consumption of F&V-products among 1000 pre-vocational adolescents, aged 12-20 years. In phase 2, student teams submitted innovative ideas, resulting in 25 concepts fitting into ≥1 of 4 routes: I) innovative technology for a healthy diet, II) new food products/concepts for adolescents, III) hotspots improving F&V-product experience, and IV) new routes to market. In phase 3 consortia of adolescents, students and partners were formed to develop 10 selected concepts into prototypes, and phase 4 offered teams a national platform. Results show FBC resonates with all stakeholders, generating valuable insights to increase F&V-intake. Prototypes in all 4 routes have been developed, with some already in the implementation stage. Additionally, other regions in the Netherlands have adopted the FBC approach. Overall, FBC is an approach that transforms ideas into actionable measures and shows potential to be adapted to promote various healthy eating behaviors among school students.
Morphological Study of Trionymus aberrans Goux 1938 (Hemiptera: Coccoidea: Pseudococcidae) with a Description of a Second-Instar Nymph
Authors: Kalandyk-Kołodziejczyk Małgorzata , Walczak Marcin , Podsiadło Elżbieta , Franielczyk-Pietyra Barbara , Brożek Jolanta
Published: November 2023

The morphological characters of adult females of Trionymus aberrans Goux 1938 that had been collected in post-industrial wastelands and other habitats in Poland and other countries were studied. A distinctive morphological variability was observed in the specimens that had been collected from post-industrial wastelands in Poland. SEM photos of the morphological characters of T. aberrans are provided. The occurrence of unusual pores with four loculi was demonstrated for the first time in a species of the family Pseudococcidae. The importance of introducing additional morphological characters into the species description is discussed. New data on the frequency and host preference of T. aberrans are also provided. Our research is the first long-time study on scale insect species in post-industrial wastelands. The second-instar nymph of T. aberrans is described. The presence of translucent pores on the hind coxae in second-instar nymph was revealed.
Turning a 3D Printer into a HPLC Fraction Collector: A Tool for Compound-Specific Stable Isotope Measurements
Authors: Carvalho Matheus C. , Oakes Joanne M
Published: November 2023

Compound-specific isotope analysis (CSIA) can provide unique insights into the cycling of elements including carbon and nitrogen. One approach for CSIA is the use of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to separate compounds of interest, followed by analysis of these compounds using an elemental analyzer coupled to an isotope ratio mass spectrometer. A key component of this technique is the fraction collector, which automatically collects compounds as they are separated by HPLC. Here we present a fraction collector which is a simple adaptation of a 3D printer, and thus can be easily adopted by any laboratory already equipped for HPLC. In addition to the much lower cost compared to commercial alternatives, this adaptation has the advantage for CSIA that the 3D-printer is able to heat the collected fractions, which is not true for many commercial fraction collectors. Heating allows faster evaporation of the solvent, so that the dried compounds can be measured by EA-IRMS immediately. The procedure can be repeated consecutively so that dilute solutions can have the compounds concentrated for analysis. Any computer-controlled HPLC can be integrated to the fraction collector used here by means of AutoIt.
New Possibilities for Women’s Empowerment through Agroecology in Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Behl Punam , Osbahr Henny , Cardey Sarah
Published: November 2023

In 2018, the state of Himachal Pradesh in north India launched an initiative to convert all its farmers to natural farming (NF), an agroecological approach. The aim was to address multiple challenges related to rural livelihoods, high input costs, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation. This paper is based on a qualitative case study of the state programme to transition farmers to NF. It seeks to understand how its mechanisms support and empower small and marginal women farmers. In addition to identifying mechanisms that facilitate the effective uptake of NF, the case study sought women's views on whether these increased spaces for decision-making and developed capabilities and autonomy. Framed within the vision of reclaiming food sovereignty, various mechanisms such as training in villages, participating in NF groups and networks, visits to model farms and adopting leadership roles offered new pathways for women farmers to gain confidence and capabilities. Women began to participate in spaces that had been culturally and structurally denied to them. This case study illustrates how agroecology efforts with a specific focus on gender have the potential to provide women with creative outlets and a variety of decision-making and income-generating roles, spaces for community learning and knowledge needed for sustainable ecosystems.
From Chronodisruption to Sarcopenia: The Therapeutic Potential of Melatonin
Authors: Fernández-Martínez José , Ramírez-Casas Yolanda , Yang Yang , Aranda-Martínez Paula , Martínez-Ruiz Laura , Escames Germaine , Acuña-Castroviejo And Darío
Published: November 2023

Sarcopenia is an age-related condition that involves a progressive decline in muscle mass and function, leading to increased risks of falls, frailty, and mortality. Although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, aging-related processes like inflammation, oxidative stress, reduced mitochondrial capacity, and cell apoptosis contribute to this decline. Disruption of the circadian system with age may initiate these pathways in skeletal muscle, preceding the onset of sarcopenia. At present, there is no pharmacological treatment for sarcopenia, only resistance exercise and proper nutrition may delay its onset. Melatonin, derived from tryptophan, emerges as an exceptional candidate for treating sarcopenia due to its chronobiotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Its impact on mitochondria, organelle where it is synthesized and crucial in aging skeletal muscle, further highlights its potential. In this review, we discuss the influence of clock genes in muscular aging, with special reference to peripheral clock genes in the skeletal muscle, as well as their relationship with melatonin, which is proposed as a potential therapy against sarcopenia.
Influence of the Cooling Rate on Austenite Ordering and Martensite Transformation in a Nonstichiommetric Alloy based on Ni-Mn-In
Authors: Kuznetsov Dmitriy , Kuznetsova Elena , Mashirov Alexey , Danilov Denis , Shandryuk Georgiy Alexandrovich , Musabirov Irek , Shchetinin Igor V. , Prokunin Alexey , Von Gratowski Svetlana , Shavrov Vladimir
Published: November 2023

The effect of the melt cooling rate on the atomic ordering of austenite and, as a consequence, on the martensitic transformation of a nonstoichiometric alloy of the Ni-Mn-In system has been studied. In-situ TEM observations revealed differences in the mechanism of phase transformations of the alloy subjected to different cooling conditions. It is shown that during quenching a high density of antiphase boundaries (APB) is formed and the alloy is in the austenite-martensitic (10M and 14M) state up to a temperature of 120K. In a slowly cooled alloy, a lower APB density is observed, and a two-stage transformation L21/B2 → 10M → 14M occurs in the range of 150–120 K.
Developing A MQ‐LSTM Based Cultural Tourism Accelerator with Database Security
Authors: Ahamed Professor. Shaik Rafi , Jeribi Fathe , Perumala Uma , Alhameed Mohammed Hameed , Chari K Manjunatha
Published: November 2023

Cultural Tourism (CT), which enhances the economic development of a region, aids a country in reinforcing its identities, enhancing cross-cultural understanding, and preserving the heritage culture of an area. Designing a proper tourism model assists the tourists in understanding the point of interest without the help of a local guide. However, owing to the need for the analysis of different factors, designing such a model is a complex process. Therefore, this article proposes a CT model for Riyadh for peak visitor time. Primarily, the map data and cultural event dataset are processed for location, such as grouping with Kriging Interpolation-based Chameleon (KIC), tree forming, and feature extraction. After that, the event dataset’s attributes are processed with word embedding. Meanwhile, the Social Network Sites (SNS) data like reviews and news are extracted with an external Application Programming Interface (API). The review data is processed with keyword extraction and word embedding, whereas the news data is processed with score value estimation. Lastly, the data are fused corresponding to a historical site and given to the Multi-Quadratic-Long Short Term Memory (MQ-LSTM) Recommendation System (RS); also, the recommended result with the map is stored in a database. Lastly, the database security is maintained with Locality Sensitive Hashing (LSH); moreover, by attaining higher performance values, the proposed model is experimentally verified.
Low-Dose Ionizing Radiation-Crosslinking Immunoprecipitation (LDIR-CLIP) Identified Irradiation-Sensitive RNAs for RNA-Binding Protein HuR-Mediated Decay
Authors: Lee Ji Won , Mun Hyejin , Kim Jeong-Hyun , Ko Seungbeom , Kim Young-kook , Shim Min Ji , Kim Kyungmin , Ho Chul Woong , Park Hyun Bong , Kim Meesun , Lee Chaeyoung , Choi Si Ho , Kim Jung-Woong , Yoon Je-Hyun , Min Kyung-Won , Son Tae Gen
Published: November 2023

Although ionizing radiation (IR) is widely used for therapeutic and research purposes, studies on low-dose ionizing radiation (LDIR) are limited compared with those on other IR approaches, such as high-dose gamma irradiation and ultraviolet irradiation. High-dose IR affects DNA damage response and nucleotide-protein crosslinking, among other processes; however, the molecular consequences of LDIR have been poorly investigated. Here, we developed a method to profile RNA species crosslinked to an RNA-binding protein, human antigen R (HuR), using LDIR and high-throughput RNA sequencing. The RNA fragments isolated via LDIR-crosslinking and immunoprecipitation sequencing were crosslinked to HuR and protected from RNase-mediated digestion. Upon crosslinking HuR to target mRNAs, such as PAX6, ZFP91, NR2F6, and CAND2, the transcripts degraded rapidly in human cell lines. Additionally, PAX6 and NR2F6 downregulation mediated the beneficial effects of LDIR on cell viability. Thus, our approach provides a method for investigating post-transcriptional gene regulation using LDIR.
Quantum Space-Time Symmetries: A Principle of Minimum Group Representation
Authors: SANCHEZ Norma , CIRILO-LOMBARDO Diego
Published: November 2023

We show that, as in the case of the principle of minimum action in classical and quantum mechanics, there exists an even more general principle in the very fundamental structure of quantum space-time: This is the principle of minimal group that allows to consistently and simultaneously obtain a natural description of the spacetime dynamics and the physical states admissible in it. The theoretical construction is based on the physical states that are average values of the generators of the Metaplectic group Mp(n) , the double covering of SL(2C) in a vector representation, with respect to the coherent states carrying the spin weight. Our main results here are: (i) There exists a connection between the dynamics given by the Metaplectic group symmetry generators and the physical states (mappings of the generators through bilinear combinations of the basic states). (ii) The ground states are coherent states of the Perelomov-Klauder type defined by the action of the Metaplectic group which divide the Hilbert space into even and odd states mutually orthogonal. They carry a spin weight 1/4 and 3/4 respectively from which, two other basic states can be formed. (iii) The physical states, mapped bilinearly with the basic 1/4 and 3/4 spin weight states, plus their symmetric and antisymmetric combinations, have spin contents s = 0, 1/2, 1, 3/2 and 2. (iv) The generators realized with the bosonic variables of the harmonic oscillator introduce a natural supersymmetry and a superspace whose line element is the geometrical Lagrangian of our model. (v) From the line element as operator level, a coherent physical state of spin 2 can be obtained and naturally related to the metric tensor. (vi) The metric tensor is naturally discretized by taking the discrete series given by the basic states (coherent states) in the n number representation, reaching the classical (continuous) space-time for n going to infinity. (vii) There emerges a relation between the eigenvalue of our coherent state metric solution and the black hole area (entropy) as A_{bh}/4 l_{p}^{2} = I alpha I relating the phase space of the metric found g_{ab} and the black hole area A_{bh} through the Planck length l_{p}^{2} and the eigenvalue I alpha I of the coherent states. As a consequence of the lowest level of the quantum discrete space-time spectrum, eg the ground state associated to n = 0 and its characteristic length, there exists a minimum entropy related to the black hole history.
Epigenetic Methylation Changes in Pregnant Women: Bisphenol Exposure and Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Kim Seung Hwan , Yu So Yeon , Choo Jeong Hyeop , Kim Jihyun , Ahn Kangmo , Hwang Seung Yong
Published: November 2023

Bisphenol is a chemical substance widely used in plastic products and food containers. In this study, we observed a relationship between DNA methylation and atopic dermatitis (AD) in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of pregnant women exposed to bisphenol A (BPA) and its alternatives, bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (BPF). DNA methylation is an epigenetic mechanism that regulates gene expression, which can be altered by environmental factors, and affects the onset and progression of diseases. We found that genes belonging to the JAK-STAT and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways were hypomethylated in the blood of pregnant women exposed to bisphenols. These genes play important roles in skin barrier function and immune responses, and may influence AD. Therefore, we suggest that not only BPA but also BPS and BPF, which are used as alternatives, can have a negative impact on AD through epigenetic mechanisms.
THE IMPACT OF SPIDER MODEL OF CORAL TRANSPLANTATION ON FISH ABUNDANCE IN THE WATERS OF BOTUTONUO, GORONTALO PROVINCE
Authors: Alhulu Andeas , Sahami Femy M. , Hamzah Sri N
Published: November 2023

This study aims to determine the abundance of fish in the recovery location of the coral reef ecosystem in Botutonuo waters, Gorontalo Province. The research was conducted in February - May 2023. The research location consisted of 2 sites, namely site A which had coral transplants with spider coral skeletons and site B which had no transplants (natural coral reefs). Observations were made 3 times with an interval of 2 weeks. Reef fish data was collected using the Underwater Visual Census (UVC) method, with a 50 m x 5 m line transect. Calculation of data using fish abundance rum. The results showed that the number of fish species found in the Botutonuo waters of Gorontalo Province at site A was 89 species with a total individual abundance of 2,429 ind/m2, while at site B there were 69 species with a total individual abundance of 2,054 ind/m2.
Effectiveness of Low-Dose Intermittent Epidural Bolus of 1 mg Morphine as Postoperative Analgesia
Authors: Pitria Septiani Gusti Ayu
Published: November 2023

Background: Patients who have undergone major surgery typically experience postoperative pain that persists for seven days following surgery. The challenge for the anesthesiologist is to provide adequate postoperative pain control which is not always achievable. In contrast to systemic administration, epidural administration of opioids places the medications close to the site of action, allowing for relatively small doses to be effective with a low incidence of side effects. Morphine is a long-established analgesia drug that characteristically slows diffusion and long duration in epidural analgesia, making it widely used in postoperative pain management. However, giving morphine is not without any complications.
Case Illustration: Nine patients who underwent major surgeries either under combined epidural-general anesthesia or epidural anesthesia received a low-dose intermittent epidural bolus of 1 mg morphine in 10 mL normal saline every 12 hours after surgery. Postoperative pain scores were recorded at the 1st,12th,24th, 36th, and 48th hours after surgery, data of additional rescue analgesia, and the incidence of nausea, vomiting, pruritus, sedation, and respiratory depression were also collected. Only one patient needed rescue analgesia with 30 mg Ketorolac IV, and one patient needed anti-emetic with 4 mg ondansetron IV an hour after the completion of surgery. The rest of the patients have mild pain (NRS≤3/10) within 48 hours after surgery. Furthermore, there is no other adverse effects of morphine were found
Conclusion: low dose intermittent epidural bolus of 1 mg morphine can be used as effective postoperative analgesia and has fewer adverse effects.
Technology Focus: Hydraulic Fracturing Modeling (November 2023)
Authors: McClure Mark
Published: November 2023

The purpose of hydraulic fracture modeling is to improve engineering decision-making. Success requires practical knowledge, engagement with real data, theoretical understanding, and critical thinking. The payoff is tremendous; design improvements routinely yield major uplifts in well performance and project economics.

What types of papers push forward the state of the art for hydraulic fracturing modeling?

In the pure development of models, practitioners adopt different philosophies. Some seek faster running models for quicker results. Others focus on integration of physics, trying to capture the essential elements of all key physical processes and how they interact. Still others focus on high-precision answers to narrower aspects of the problem. The appropriate emphasis depends on the context of how and why the model is being used.

Many of the most influential papers of the past decade on hydraulic fracture modeling have not been modeling papers at all. Modeling depends on formulating a realistic conceptual model. New types of data collection and new ways of analyzing and interpreting data have given engineers a much clearer picture of what is happening in the subsurface. Extraordinary field-scale data-collection projects have given us calibration data that is not available from any other means. With a firmer foundation of knowledge, engineers can construct models that are not only precise but also, more importantly, accurate, and can apply them to solve practical problems.

The work flow—how modeling is integrated with field data, practical knowledge, and engineering decision-making—is just as important as the model itself. Thus, papers that offer practical case studies are valuable because they demonstrate work flows and success stories that others can build upon.

Hydraulic fracture modeling continues to be a vital contributor across a range of applications: shale, conventional reservoirs, and developing areas such as enhanced geothermal systems.

Recommended additional reading at OnePetro: www.onepetro.org.

SPE 212328 Interpretation of Fracture Initiation Points by In-Well Low-Frequency Distributed Acoustic Sensing in Horizontal Wells by Smith Leggett, Texas Tech University, et al.

URTeC 3864951 Revealing the Production Drivers for Refracs in the Williston Basin by Alexander Cui, Novi Labs, et al.

SPE 214784 Application of Hybrid Physics-Based and Data-Driven Fracture Propagation Modeling for Characterizing Hydraulic Fracture Geometry in Unconventional Reservoirs by K. Aldhayee, Texas A&M University, et al.
A sustainable-resilient agri-food supplier selection hybrid decision-making model based on Industry 4.0 dimensions
Authors: Tavakoli Mahdieh , Asiaban Omid , Irani Shirin , Zolghadri AmirAli , Sepehri Ghazal
Published: November 2023

Evaluating and selecting suppliers is a critical and complex process that can dramatically increase the resilience and sustainability of the agri-food supply chain. Owing to the importance of the mentioned issue, this study attempts to develop a hybrid decision-making model to study the supplier selection problem for the agri-food industry, taking into account the impacts of Industry 4.0. At first, the key research indicators are determined through literature analysis and consultation with experts. The weights of the indicators are then evaluated using the lexicographic Best-Worst Method (BWM). Following that, Viekriterijumsko Kompromisno Rangiranje (VIKOR) is employed to identify and rank potential suppliers. According to the results, the most important indicators include cost, agility, quality, pollution control, and smart factories, respectively. Also, to show the validity and robustness of the developed lexicographic BWM, its results were compared with traditional approaches, and the obtained results confirmed the validity and feasibility of the proposed method. Additionally, to demonstrate the validity of the employed VIKOR method, its ranking result was compared with another traditional approach, and the outputs demonstrated the validity of the applied method. Finally, managerial and theoretical implications are provided.
The acute effect of maximal exercise test and chronic impact of an 8-week HIIT program on albuminuria and kidney function in the 2nd and 3rd trimester of physiological pregnancy.
Authors: Wołyniec Wojciech , Mieszkowski Jan , Kochanowicz Andrzej , Radzimiński Łukasz , Renke Marcin , Szumilewicz Anna
Published: November 2023

Objectives. Physical activity is an important part of healthy lifestyle and should be continued during uncomplicated pregnancy. Several studies have suggested that most of the pregnant women had no contraindications to perform exercises. The aim of the study was to assess the acute effect of maximal exercise test and chronic impact of an 8-week HIIT program on albuminuria and kidney function in the 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy.
Methods. A group of 36 pregnant women was studied. At the beginning of the study, all participants had normal kidney function and albuminuria at rest. Nineteen women participated in an 8-week HIIT program and seventeen in an educational program (EDU group). Before and after the training or education programs, a progressive maximal exercise test on cycloergometer was conducted. Several biochemical measurements were performed to assess changes in kidney function.
Results. After short exercise test, some unexpected findings were observed: the fractional excretion of urea and uric acid increased (FeUrea from 41.25 to 50.05%; FeUA from 7.18 to 8.04%) and serum uric acid decreased significantly (sUA from 3.35 to 3.28mg/dL).
The HIIT program had no impact on kidney function at rest. In both groups, significant increases in eGFR and sUA were observed. An interesting observation was that uACR increased significantly only in EDU group.
Conclusion. Changes in kidney function after short intensive exercise in pregnancy were typical for healthy subjects, but there was no negative impact on markers of renal hypoperfusion. The supervised HIIT program had no negative impact on kidney function.
Rural Healthcare Workers' Well-Being: A Systematic Review of Support Interventions
Authors: Malik Mansoor , Penalosa Martina , Busch Isolde Martina , Burhanullah Haroon , Weston Christine , Weeks Kristina , Connors Cheryl , Michtalik Henry J. , Everly George , Wu Albert W.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: COVID-19 has amplified existing challenges to healthcare in rural areas, including a lack of access to care, increased staff turnover, and poor staff morale. Although there was increased awareness about healthcare workers’ stress and burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic, most of the support interventions tended to be in urban healthcare centers. Given the unique challenges rural healthcare workers face, we sought to systematically identify the types of interventions specifically designed and utilized to support the well-being of healthcare workers practicing in rural settings.
Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search of the literature through electronic databases (Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, CINAHL, Emerald, SCOPUS databases, Google Scholar, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global, American Doctoral Dissertations, Open Access Theses and Dissertations) to identify quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods studies describing supportive interventions for rural healthcare workers with well-being-related outcomes. We used the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP), Mixed Methods Assessment Tool (MMAT) and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist to evaluate the study quality.
Results: Out of 1583 identified records, 25 studies were included in the analysis. The studies described a wide range of supportive interventions and outcomes. The overall quality of the studies was weak to moderate. None of the studies were randomized, and only six included controls. The included interventions had high acceptance by rural healthcare workers. Quantitative and qualitative themes identified shared decision-making, effective supervision, and proactive cultural change as the most fruitful interventions. Financial interventions alone were not effective. Most of the studies were either unfunded or were funded internally by the institutions.
Conclusions: Support interventions for healthcare workers, especially second-victim support programs, are underutilized in rural settings.
Infinite-failure Software Reliability Models Based on Non-homogeneous Markov Processes
Authors: Qiu Nanxiang , Li Siqiao , Dohi Tadashi , Okamura Hiroyuki
Published: November 2023

This paper explores yet another software reliability modeling framework based on non-homogeneous Markov processes (NHMPs). For two subclasses of NHMPs; generalized binomial processes (GBPs) and generalized Polya processes (GPPs), we formulate 22 novel NHMP-based software reliability models (SRMs) with 11 kinds of baseline intensity functions, which are different from the existing NHMP-based SRMs by Li et al. (2023). Our evaluation of NHMP-based SRMs focuses on assessing their goodness-of-fit and predictive performances using 8 data sets of software fault detection time-domain data and 8 data sets of time-interval data (group data). The results are compared with the well-known NHPP-based SRMs. Through comprehensive numerical experiments, we show that our new modeling framework could provide the strengths in the goodness-of-fit performance in many cases but outperform on the predictive performance in a limited number of cases.
Mainstreaming systematic Climate Action in energy infrastructure to support the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Román Simon , Wernersson Louise , Fuso-Nerini Francesco , Mutyaba Robert , Stratton-Short Samantha , Adshead Daniel
Published: November 2023

The energy sector is the largest emitter of greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 37% of the world’s combined emissions and plays a key role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. However, there is no systematic means for planners and practitioners to integrate climate considerations throughout the sector project lifecycle. Using a thematic document analysis, we provide a comprehensive list of activities related to climate mitigation and adaptation which can be systematically mainstreamed into the energy sector project lifecycle to support a range of sustainable development outcomes. Two renewable energy projects were used to integrate the results into a practical context and demonstrate the range of potential SDG target synergies. Implementing the proposed list of activities shows that integrated climate action in energy infrastructure can influence the achievement of SDGs if it is done in a holistic way across the entire project lifecycle. This work provides a practical means to maximise progress within the framework of climate-compatible development.
The relationship between cognitive control abilities and event-related potentials in middle-age and older adults
Authors: Li Dan , Leng Tian , Yu Miao , Hou kuan , Liu Yang , Xu Wen-hu , Lu Guo , Wang Kuo-Pin
Published: November 2023

Cognitive control ability, especially reactive control and proactive control, holds a significance of our daily routines. The reactive control and proactive control abilities have been associated with ERPs, such as N2, P3b, and CNV. In addition, reactive control, proactive control, and ERPs can be modulated by aging decline. However, the relationship between aging effects, cognitive control ability, and ERPs is still unclear. The reason is that the level of physical fitness may be an additional (potentially confounding) variable in these three factors. To provide a comprehensive relationship between aging, reactive control and proactive control abilities, and neural responses, we mainly tested strength and direction of the linear relationship between cognitive performance in the AX-CPT task and neural responses by controlling fitness levels from middle-age (45–64 years) to older adults (older than 64 ages). We recruited 121 healthy adults and asked participant to perform AX-CPT test while we recorded ERPs. In addition, participants underwent the senior fitness test (SFT) to measure their physical fitness level. We mainly found that (1) higher age was correlated with slower RT in BX trials and greater amplitude in CNV at Pz electrode. (2) slower RT in BX trials were correlated with greater CNV amplitude at Pz. We suggest that aging mainly was correlated with paying more attention to maintain a sufficient level of proactive control ability, which was correlated with slower RT in proactive control trials. This study expands upon existing comparative research by emphasizing the intricate connections between aging, proactive control mechanisms, and neuroelectric markers.
Spatio-temporal variability of sugarcane yield based on edaphoclimatic factors in the central region of Brazil
Authors: Capuchinho Frank Freire , Casaroli Derblai , Júnior José Alves , Evangelista Adão Wagner Pêgo , Xavier Maxuel Fellipe Nunes , Irigoyen Andrea Inés , Moreira Alisson Neves Harmyans , Renner Christian Hendrik
Published: November 2023

Brazil is the main producer of sugarcane in the world; however, it occupies the 24th position in the global ranking in terms of average yield, demonstrating gaps that may be associated with unfavorable edaphoclimatic conditions and/or lack of application of suitable technologies. Therefore, the aim of this study was to correlate the spatio-temporal variability of sugarcane yield with the edaphoclimatic conditions of the central region of Brazil. For this, 11 sugarcane-producing municipalities located in the states of Goiás, Mato Grosso, São Paulo and Minas Gerais were studied, based on historical data (47 years) of yield, climate and soil. To show the climatic effects on yield (Yr), technological trends (YrNT) were removed from the adjustment of a simple linear regression, and a cluster analysis was performed. Four groups of Yr and YrNT were formed, in which group 1 had the highest average (77 Mg ha− 1) and group 4 the lowest average (47 Mg ha− 1), with a yield-gap around of 10.2 Mg ha− 1. Municipalities classified as having the highest Yr average are in groups 3 and 4 for climate and 2 and 3 for soils. Climate group 3 considering YrNT resulted in higher occurrences (≈ 26% of years) of anomalies lower than 1.0 standard deviation (σ), showing that climatic conditions associated with the lack of adequate technologies in production processes can cause losses in crop yield. It is recommended that sugarcane Yr should be evaluated considering cycles and harvest before performing the YrNT, for a better inference of crop variability.
Impacts of organic and conventional management systems on weeds and insects’ biodiversity
Authors: Rad Mansoure Mahlouji , Lashkari Azam
Published: November 2023

Organic farming is one of the solutions for reducing the negative impact of global warming which requires a comprehensive assessment as the extent of its benefits and impacts is largely uncertain in different regions of the world. Thus, this study was done to assess weeds and insects’ diversity under organic and conventional farming systems of wheat and potato in a semi-arid region. The experiments were conducted on two certified organic wheat and potato fields and two conventional wheat and potato fields in northeast of Iran during 2011–2013. Insects and weeds sampling were carried out for several times during the growing season. Shannon-Wiener and Simpsons’ indexes calculated for different sampling stages. The results illustrated that species richness and biodiversity indexes of insects in organic wheat fields was higher than the conventional fields. The number of harmful (pest) families in conventional fields was higher than organic fields. The organic potato field had a higher Shannon index for weed communities during the first and second year of the experiment than the conventional one. The reported organic yields were higher than conventional management mainly due to the application of high yielding varieties in organic fields. In summary, our results show that there is a great potential for transformation from conventional to organic farming particularly for wheat production.