bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cosmic-Ray Acceleration and Nonthermal Radiation at Accretion Shocks in the Outer Regions of Galaxy Clusters
Authors: Ha Ji-Hoon , Ryu Dongsu , Kang Hyesung
Published: February 2023

Cosmology models predict that external accretion shocks form in the outer region of galaxy clusters owing to supersonic gas infall from filaments and voids in the cosmic web. They are characterized by high sonic and Alfvénic Mach numbers, M

s
∼ 10–102 and M
A ∼ 102–103, and propagate into weakly magnetized plasmas of β ≡ P

g
/P

B
≳ 102. Although strong accretion shocks are expected to be efficient accelerators of cosmic rays (CRs), nonthermal signatures of shock-accelerated CRs around clusters have not been confirmed, and detailed acceleration physics at such shocks has yet to be understood. In this study, we first establish through two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations that at strong high-β shocks electrons can be pre-energized via stochastic Fermi acceleration owing to the ion Weibel instability in the shock transition region, possibly followed by injection into diffusive shock acceleration. Hence, we propose that the models derived from conventional thermal leakage injection may be employed for the acceleration of electrons and ions at accretion shocks as well. Applying these analytic models to numerical shock zones identified in structure formation simulations, we estimate nonthermal radiation, such as synchrotron and inverse Compton (IC) emission due to CR electrons and π
0-decay γ-rays due to CR protons, around simulated clusters. Our models with injection parameter Q ≈ 3.5–3.8 predict synthetic synchrotron maps, which seem consistent with recent radio observations of the Coma Cluster. However, the detection of nonthermal IC X-rays and γ-rays from accretion shocks would be quite challenging. We suggest that the proposed analytic models may be adopted as generic recipes for CR production at cosmological shocks.
Target Detection Framework for Lobster Eye X-Ray Telescopes with Machine-learning Algorithms
Authors: Jia Peng , Liu Wenbo , Liu Yuan , Pan Haiwu
Published: February 2023

Lobster eye telescopes are ideal monitors to detect X-ray transients because they could observe celestial objects over a wide field of view in the X-ray band. However, images obtained by lobster eye telescopes are modified by their unique point-spread functions, making it hard to design a high-efficiency target detection algorithm. In this paper, we integrate several machine-learning algorithms to build a target detection framework for data obtained by lobster eye telescopes. Our framework would first generate two 2D images with different pixel scales according to positions of photons on the detector. Then, an algorithm based on morphological operations and two neural networks would be used to detect candidates of celestial objects with different flux from these 2D images. Finally, a random forest algorithm will be used to pick up final detection results from candidates obtained by previous steps. Tested with simulated data of the Wide-field X-ray Telescope on board the Einstein Probe, our detection framework could achieve over 94% purity and over 90% completeness for targets with flux more than 3 mcrab (9.6 × 10−11 erg cm−2 s−1) and more than 94% purity and moderate completeness for targets with lower flux at acceptable time cost. The framework proposed in this paper could be used as references for data processing methods developed for other lobster eye X-ray telescopes.
Bridging High-density Electron Beam Coronal Transport and Deep Chromospheric Heating in Stellar Flares
Authors: Kowalski Adam F.
Published: February 2023

The optical and near-ultraviolet (NUV) continuum radiation in M-dwarf flares is thought to be the impulsive response of the lower stellar atmosphere to magnetic energy release and electron acceleration at coronal altitudes. This radiation is sometimes interpreted as evidence of a thermal photospheric spectrum with T ≈ 104 K. However, calculations show that standard solar flare coronal electron beams lose their energy in a thick target of gas in the upper and middle chromosphere (log10 column mass/[g cm−2] ≲ −3). At larger beam injection fluxes, electric fields and instabilities are expected to further inhibit propagation to low altitudes. We show that recent numerical solutions of the time-dependent equations governing the power-law electrons and background coronal plasma (Langmuir and ion-acoustic) waves from Kontar et al. produce order-of-magnitude larger heating rates than those that occur in the deep chromosphere through standard solar flare electron beam power-law distributions. We demonstrate that the redistribution of beam energy above E ≳ 100 keV in this theory results in a local heating maximum that is similar to a radiative-hydrodynamic model with a large, low-energy cutoff and a hard power-law index. We use this semiempirical forward-modeling approach to produce opaque NUV and optical continua at gas temperatures T ≳ 12,000 K over the deep chromosphere with log10 column mass/[g cm−2] of −1.2 to −2.3. These models explain the color temperatures and Balmer jump strengths in high-cadence M-dwarf flare observations, and they clarify the relation among atmospheric, radiation, and optical color temperatures in stellar flares.
Assessing the diversity and spatial distribution of nematodes in the Store Mosse National Park (Sweden) using metabarcoding
Authors: Ahmed Mohammed , Slos Dieter , Holovachov Oleksandr
Published: February 2023

Nematode taxa of the Store Mosse National Park in the south of Sweden were surveyed using DNA metabarcoding. Samples were collected from a range of media across all the five vegetation types the park spans. A total of 50 samples consisting of soil, litter, lichens, sphagnum, roots, wood, moss, fungus and anthill materials were analysed. Nematodes were characterised using a ~350 bp region of their 18S ribosomal RNA gene that include V7 and V8 variable domains. The analysis identified 47 families, 76 genera (21 new to Swedish fauna) and 60 species (31 new to Swedish fauna). Some nematodes showed a strong association with certain medium types, especially at the species level. The results showed a strong justification for our strategy of sampling different medium types. Soil and litter communities, which were the most diverse, showed high levels of stability with good balance of all the various trophic and coloniser-persister groups.
Aerial culling feral fallow deer with shotguns improves efficiency and welfare outcomes
Authors: Bradshaw Corey , Doube Andrew , Scanlon Annette , Page Brad , Tarran Myall , Fielder Kate , Andrews Lindell , Bourne Steve , Stevens Mike , Schulz Penny , Kloeden Tom , Drewer Seb , Matthews Rob , Findlay Chris , White Warren , Leehane Craig , Conibear Brett , Doube James , Rowley Ted
Published: February 2023

Feral deer are some of Australia’s worst emerging pest species. Recently, the Government of South Australia launched a four-year program to reduce the populations of feral fallow deer (Dama dama). The program will focus on coordinating landscape-scale aerial culls and seeks to deliver the most efficient and humane approach to aerial culling. We sourced data from a recent program trialling a new approach to aerial culling that incorporated advanced thermal technology and a second shooter with a shotgun to target fallow deer. We reviewed available video and audio records of 104 deer culled in the program to assess efficiency and welfare outcomes. We collected information on the number of shotgun and rifle rounds fired per animal, time between first shot with a shotgun and confirmed death, and pursuit time. We completed field dissections of 20 individuals targeted in the program to assess the lethality of wounds inflicted with shotgun pellets. We also compared program costs and efficiency against published and unpublished data from ten other aerial-culling programs for feral deer in South Australia since 2009. A total of 383 shotgun rounds and 10 rifle rounds were used on 104 fallow deer in the focal program. We documented strong improvements to animal welfare for feral deer targeted with shotguns. The mean (± standard error) time between first shot and confirmed kill with a shotgun was 11.1 ± 0.7 seconds; mean pursuit time between detection and a confirmed kill was 49.5 ± 3.4 seconds. Pursuit time increased with subsequent deer controlled within a group; the maximum pursuit time for any individual was 159.0 seconds. All autopsied animals had received lethal wounds from shotgun pellets, with 100% receiving lung-penetrating damage and 70% also receiving heart-penetrating damage. While a program that uses a shotgun and rifle combined with a second shooter and thermographer can cost more to mobilise, the outcomes measured in cost deer-1 made it the most cost-effective approach of any program we assessed. Control options that deliver improved animal welfare outcomes and increase efficiency are desirable for managing expanding populations of feral deer in South Australia and elsewhere.
Questions de recherche sur l’industrie de l’alumine en Europe
Authors: Mioche Philippe
Published: February 2023

La contribution décrit l’équipement historique de l’industrie de l’alumine métallurgique dans l’espace de l’Union européenne et montre l’évolution des capacités de production. En 1913, la France et l’Allemagne sont les premiers producteurs en Europe. En 2020, ce sont l’Irlande et l’Espagne. L’approvisionnement de l’industrie de l’alumine en minerai de bauxite a connu trois étapes : exploitation des gisements européens (sud-est de la France, Balkans), ressources coloniales, et marché mondialisé de l’alumine, ces ressources pouvant être concomitantes. La production d’alumines non-métallurgiques existe depuis l’industrialisation de l’alumine avec le procédé Bayer et reste très minoritaire. Mais elle rencontre des perspectives inédites car les alumines de spécialités trouvent leurs usages dans la transition environnementale. Au point de poser la question d’une Europe des alumines spéciales ?
Nazi autarky policy and alumina without bauxite: the Séailles-Dyckerhoff Technology 1936-1945
Authors: Scherner Jonas
Published: February 2023

En tant qu’intrant de l’aluminium, indispensable à la production aéronautique et principal agent de substitution des métaux non ferreux, l’alumine était capitale au réarmement et à la politique d’autarcie nazis. Cet article traite du rôle de l’État dans la promotion de la recherche et du développement de procédés d’extraction de l’alumine à partir de matières premières allemandes, l’alumine étant destinée à remplacer le bauxite, disponible uniquement par importation. À partir de 1936, l’État déclenche et incite les entreprises à mener des recherches et crée des conditions propices au bon développement des procédés en investissant des ressources financières conséquentes. Le procédé le plus déterminant, mobilisant des ressources considérables et dont la production fut enclenchée pendant la guerre, est la technologie Séailles-Dyckerhoff, développée par le cimentier allemand Dyckerhoff à partir d’un brevet français.
Du concours idéal de qualifications, Pour l'éviction de non bis in idem au profit d'un principe autonome d'unicité de qualification
Authors: Ballot-Squirawski Claire
Published: February 2023

La nouvelle évolution des conditions d'application du principe non bis in idem en cas de concours idéal de qualifications n'est-elle pas la preuve de son incapacité à résoudre ce type particulier de concours ? Contrairement à une idée reçue, c'est la jurisprudence qui a déduit la solution du concours idéal de qualifications de l'application de non bis in idem. Or, cette application a eu paradoxalement pour effet de permettre au cumul d'infractions de s'imposer, à une époque à laquelle la doctrine y était majoritairement défavorable. Outre qu'elle s'est révélée contre-productive, l'application du principe en ce domaine est aussi erronée, en ce qu'elle repose sur une déformation de son champ d'application. Pour autant, cela ne signifie pas que l'unicité de la qualification doive être abandonnée. Bien au contraire : un principe d'unicité de qualification peut bel et bien être identifié. Mais il présente une autonomie.
Essai pour un modèle interprétatif du concept de vulnérabilité
Authors: Gondard Éric
Published: February 2023

Résumé  : Cet article cherche à clarifier le concept de vulnérabilité, aujourd’hui largement tombé dans le sens commun. Il a aussi pour objectif de penser ce terme en le positionnant face à d’autres catégories de la prise en charge sanitaire et sociale : exclusion, pauvreté, précarité, fragilité… Pourquoi les mots changent-ils selon les époques alors que les populations qu’ils recouvrent sont toujours plus ou moins les mêmes ?
Newman et l’arbre doxastique
Authors: Engel Pascal
Published: February 2023

On présente ici la taxinomie des attitudes doxastiques donnée par Newman dans la Grammaire de l’assentiment . Elle repose sur trois distinctions : entre appréhension et assentiment, entre appréhension et assentiment notionnels et réels, et entre assentiment et inférence. Newman n’est pas toujours clair sur ces distinctions, mais son projet est important, au-delà de ses implications théologiques, pour la philosophie de l’esprit contemporaine, qui tend à réduire toutes les attitudes doxastiques à la croyance.
L’art, « un moment intrinsèque » de la théologie ?
Authors: Hétier Denis
Published: February 2023

La question de la relation entre art et théologie demeure un champ de réflexion dense et complexe. La notion de « moment intrinsèque », utilisée par Karl Rahner lui-même, permet pour une part de qualifier cette relation. Quatre étapes montreront comment cette notion peut être entendue de manière différenciée selon les approches envisagées. Penser l’art comme « moment intrinsèque » de la théologie ne consiste pas seulement en une réflexion sur l’art, mais conduit aussi, inéluctablement, à une réflexion sur la théologie elle-même.
A novel pessimistic multigranulation roughness by soft relations over dual universe
Authors: Din Jamalud , Shabir Muhammad , Belhaouari Samir Brahim
Published: February 2023

A multigranulation rough set over two universes delivers a unique perspective on the combination of multigranulation information. This paper presents the pessimistic multignualtion rough set over dual universes based on soft binary relations. Firstly, a new pessimistic multigranualtion rough set over dual universes based on two soft binary relations has been developed, and their properties are derived. Then we extend this idea and present pessimistic multigranulation roughness over dual universes based on the finite number of soft binary relations. Finally, we present an example to illustrate our proposed multigranualtion rough set model.
A coupled system of Laplacian and bi-Laplacian equations with nonlinear dampings and source terms of variable-exponents nonlinearities: Existence, uniqueness, blow-up and a large-time asymptotic behavior
Authors: Messaoudi Salim A. , Al-Gharabli Mohammad M. , Al-Mahdi Adel M. , Al-Osta Mohammed A.
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we consider a coupled system of Laplacian and bi-Laplacian equations with nonlinear dampings and source terms of variable-exponents nonlinearities. This system is supplemented with initial and mixed boundary conditions. First, we establish the existence and uniqueness results of a weak solution, under suitable assumptions on the variable exponents. Second, we show that the solutions with positive-initial energy blow-up in a finite time. Finally, we establish the global existence as well as the energy decay results of the solutions, using the stable-set and the multiplier methods, under appropriate conditions on the variable exponents and the initial data.
Neutrosophic test of linearity with application
Authors: Aslam Muhammad , Saleem Muhammad
Published: February 2023

The existing F-test of linearity cannot be applied when data has indeterminacy and uncertainty. The present paper introduces the F-test of testing linearity under neutrosophic statistics. We will develop F-test under neutrosophic statistics and neutrosophic analysis of the variance (NANOVA) table. The application of the proposed test will be given using the data of dry bulb temperature and relative humidity. From the analysis and comparison studies, it is found that the proposed F-test under neutrosophic statistics gives the results in indeterminate intervals and measures of indeterminacy. In addition, the proposed test is more flexible, adequate, and more informative than the F-test under classical statistics.
Stability, bifurcation, and chaos control in a discrete predator-prey model with strong Allee effect
Authors: Al Khabyah Ali , Ahmed Rizwan , Akram Muhammad Saeed , Akhtar Shehraz
Published: February 2023

This work considers a discrete-time predator-prey system with a strong Allee effect. The existence and topological classification of the system's possible fixed points are investigated. Furthermore, the existence and direction of period-doubling and Neimark-Sacker bifurcations are explored at the interior fixed point using bifurcation theory and the center manifold theorem. A hybrid control method is used for controlling chaos and bifurcations. Some numerical examples are presented to verify our theoretical findings. Numerical simulations reveal that the discrete model has complex dynamics. Moreover, it is shown that the system with the Allee effect requires a much longer time to reach its interior fixed point.
Blowup for $ {{\rm{C}}}^{1} $ solutions of Euler equations in $ {{\rm{R}}}^{N} $ with the second inertia functional of reference
Authors: Yuen Manwai
Published: February 2023

The compressible Euler equations are an elementary model in mathematical fluid mechanics. In this article, we combine the Sideris and Makino-Ukai-Kawashima's classical functional techniques to study the new second inertia functional of reference:

   \begin{document}$ { H}_{ref}{ (t) = }\frac{1}{2}\int_{\Omega(t)}\left( { \rho-\bar{\rho}}\right) \left\vert { \vec{x} }\right\vert ^{2}dV{{ , }} $\end{document}

for the blowup phenomena of $ C^{1} $ solutions $ (\rho, \vec{u}) $ with the support of $ \left({ \rho-\bar{\rho}}, \vec{u}\right) $, and with a positive constant $ { \bar{\rho}} $ for the adiabatic index $ \gamma > 1 $. We find that if the total reference mass

   \begin{document}$ M_{ref}(0) = { \int_{{\bf R}^{N}}} (\rho_{0}({ \vec{x}})-\bar{\rho})dV\geq0, $\end{document}

and the total reference energy

   \begin{document}$ E_{ref}(0) = \int_{{\bf R}^{N}}\left( \frac{1}{2}\rho_{0}({ \vec {x}})\left\vert \vec{u}_{0}({ \vec{x}})\right\vert ^{2}+\frac {K}{\gamma-1}\left( \rho_{0}^{\gamma}({ \vec{x}})-\bar{\rho }^{\gamma}\right) \right) dV, $\end{document}

with a positive constant $ K $ is sufficiently large, then the corresponding solution blows up on or before any finite time $ T > 0 $.
Intensive Care Unit Diaries: A Nurse-Led Program
Authors: Hackenberger Abbygale
Published: February 2023

Background

Following intensive care unit stays, patients with post–intensive care syndrome can experience mental health symptoms that impact quality of life. Intensive care unit diaries have been shown to improve outcomes for patients and their families.

Local Problem

Identification of limited support for high volumes of intensive care unit patients and families led to implementation of an intensive care unit diary program in a 24-bed adult medical-surgical intensive care unit.

Methods

Patients requiring mechanical ventilation with an expected intensive care unit stay of more than 24 hours were provided intensive care unit diaries. Nursing staff and patients’ families entered daily descriptive narratives of patients’ progress during the stay. After intensive care unit discharge, patients and families reviewed the diaries to improve acceptance of their intensive care unit experience. Project evaluation included review of patient and family follow-up calls, a staff nurse feedback survey, and project champion debriefing sessions to gauge implementation success and feasibility.

Results

Twenty diaries were completed and distributed to patients or families at intensive care unit discharge. Follow-up calls illustrated support and gratitude for diaries regardless of patient outcomes. Patients reported that diaries helped fill memory gaps between intensive care unit admission and discharge. Nurse surveys and project champion debriefings confirmed that completion of intensive care unit diary entries had minimal impact on workload, eased communication, and improved staff members’ coping skills.

Conclusion

Successful intensive care unit diary program implementation has the potential to benefit patients, families, and nursing staff for little organizational cost.
Assessment of Satisfaction with a Healthy Life Center, a New Service Model
Authors: Porsuk AÖ , Cerit Ç
Published: February 2023

Background:

Healthy Life Centers have recently been added to Turkey's health system as a new service model.

Aim:

This study aims to determine the level of satisfaction among service receivers with a Healthy Life Center by comparing their expectations at the application stage with their perception after receiving service, via the Servqual service quality measurement model.

Subjects and Methods:

This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted in a Healthy Life Center in Kırklareli City in Turkey. Four hundred and thirty-two participants were included in the survey. In our study, the Servqual scale developed by A. Parasuraman, V. A. Zeithaml, and L. L. Berry and a reliability assessment of the Turkish form performed by Devebakan were used.

Results:

The Tangibles dimension got the lowest (-0.68 ± 1.04) and the Empathy dimension got the highest (-0.02 ± 0.84) Servqual dimension score among all the dimensions of the scale. The overall Servqual scale score was computed as -0.27 ± 0.63 and there was a statistically significant difference between expectations and perceptions (<0.001).

Conclusions:

Satisfaction from a healthy life center which is built as a new service model is not at the expected level yet. More studies like this one which is a first in its field in terms of methodology will set the ground for a better understanding of the service receivers’ expectations and perceptions. That is how the decision-makers can shape up this new service model according to expectations.
Cord Blood Albumin as a Predictor of Neonatal Jaundice
Authors: Aasam AI , Hasan BM , Jalil RA , Hashim JM , Nasrawi AJ
Published: February 2023

Background and Aim:

Bilirubin can have a toxic effect on the brain, so newborns must be carefully checked to identify those who may develop significant hyperbilirubinemia and bilirubin encephalopathy (kernicterus). The study aimed to determine if cord blood albumin could be utilized to predict the onset of significant newborn jaundice in healthy-term babies.

Patients and Methods:

A cohort study was carried out in AL-Zahraa teaching hospital in AL-Najaf city during the period from January 1 to November 1, 2020. A randomized 100 full-term healthy neonates were enrolled. A blood sample was drawn by milking the cord and sent for serum albumin estimation. Patients were then followed up on the third and fifth days of life for total serum bilirubin (TSB).

Results:

Out of 100 healthy-term neonates that were included in this study, 60 of them had low cord blood albumin (<2.8 g/dl), and 40 of them had normal cord blood albumin (≥2.8 g/dl) with an age range of 1–5 days. There is a statistically significant difference between low cord blood albumin and significant neonatal jaundice on the third day with a 5 times more risk of developing significant jaundice than neonates with normal cord blood albumin.

Conclusion:

Cord blood albumin levels are sensitive to predicting subsequent neonatal jaundice in the healthy term newborn.
Determinants of Atopic Dermatitis among Children in a General Out-Patient Clinics of a Tertiary Hospital in North Central, Nigeria
Authors: Wey GD , Adefemi SA , Amao EA
Published: February 2023

Background:

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, inflammatory, and itchy skin condition that develops in early childhood in the majority of cases.

Aim:

The objective of this study is to determine factors associated with atopic dermatitis among children aged 6 months to 14 years seen at the General Out-Patients Clinics of a tertiary hospital in north central Nigeria as well as predictors of having AD.

Patients and Methods:

This was a descriptive cross-sectional study of 490 eligible children recruited using the systematic random sampling technique. The data collected were analyzed using statistical package for social sciences, version 22. Descriptive and inferential statistics was performed to determine the relationship between independent variables and having AD.

Results:

The factors significantly associated with AD from this study include: male sex (χ = 4.78, P = 0.029), Being in nursery school (χ = 77.60, P = 0.000), Nupe ethnicity (χ = 49.06, P = 0.000), mothers and fathers Educational level (χ = 27.80, P = 0.000), having personal or family history of atopy (χ = 31.30, P = 0.000). After all variables that are significant was adjusted; Nursery level of education (OR = 4.076, 95% CI = 1.679-9.891, P = 0.002), Mother's Level of education (OR = 0.664, 95% CI = 0.442-0.998, P = 0.049), and personal or family history of atopy (OR = 5.585-E12, 95% CI = 5.585-E12-5.585-E12, P = 0.000) were independent predictors of AD.

Conclusion:

Our data suggest that AD has a specific pattern of inheritance in children and this was predicted by: nursery level of education, mother's level of education, and family or personal history of atopy. Knowledge of this will provide a better caring strategy for predicting and preventing AD earlier in at risk children.
The Effect of Spinal Anesthesia that is Performed in Sitting or Right Lateral Position on Post-Spinal Headache and Intraocular Pressure During Elective Cesarean Section
Authors: Doğukan M , Bıçakçıoğlu M , Yilmaz N , Duran M , Uludağ Ö , Tutak A , Kaya R , Kiliç R
Published: February 2023

Background:

Although spinal anesthesia can be applied in different patient positions, the most frequently used positions are sitting and lateral positions. It is known that different patient positions during spinal anesthesia have effects on hemodynamic parameters, postdural puncture headache, and intraocular pressure.

Aim:

The study aimed to determine the effect of spinal anesthesia performed in either sitting or right lateral position on postspinal headache and intraocular pressure during elective cesarean section.

Patients and Methods:

The study was a randomized controlled study of 104 eligible pregnant women scheduled to undergo elective cesarean section. The women were randomized into two groups. Spinal anesthesia was performed either in the sitting (Group S, n = 53) or the right lateral position (Group L, n = 51). Heart rate and blood pressure were recorded throughout the operation. The participants were informed and monitored for postspinal headaches. Intraocular pressure before and after the operation was measured with Icare PRO. The obtained data were statistically compared between the two groups.

Results:

There was no difference between the groups in terms of demographic data. Postdural puncture headache was observed in five patients in Group S and one patient in Group L (P =0.04). There was no difference between the groups in terms of intraocular pressure (P >.05). Heart rate was not significantly different between the groups; however, there was a significant difference in average blood pressure in 1, 5, 30, and 40 minutes (P <.05). The number of trials administered to patients for spinal anesthesia was significantly higher in Group L (P =0.01).

Conclusion:

Spinal anesthesia performed in the sitting position for cesarean section caused a higher postspinal headache than in the right lateral position, but the position did not affect intraocular pressure.
El discurso como acción social
Authors: Mengo Renée Isabel
Published: February 2023

El abordaje del discurso como acción social, se presenta como forma de habilitar nuevos caminos en la reconstrucción de acontecimientos, mostrando tanto las estructuras del lenguaje como la ideología que compromete a los actores sociales de un momento determinado.
Evaluating treatment response to mepolizumab in patients with severe CRSwNP
Authors: Hopkins C. , Han J.K. , Lund V.J. , Bachert C. , Fokkens W.J. , Diamant Z. , Mullol J. , Sousa A.R. , Smith S.G. , Yang S. , Mayer B. , Yancey S.W. , Chan R.H. , Lee S.E.
Published: February 2023

Background: The SYNAPSE study (NCT03085797) demonstrated that mepolizumab decreased nasal polyp (NP) size and nasal obstruction in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with NP (CRSwNP). Methods: SYNAPSE, a randomized, double-blind study, included patients with recurrent, refractory, severe CRSwNP, eligible for repeated surgery despite receiving standard of care (SoC). Patients received 4-weekly mepolizumab 100 mg or placebo subcutaneously plus SoC for 52 weeks. This post hoc analysis further characterized treatment responses and association with patient characteristics. The proportion of patients meeting any and each of five response criteria indicating improvement in disease-specific quality of life, NP size, nasal obstruction, loss of smell, and overall symptoms at Weeks 24 and 52, were assessed in subgroups: 1) no surgery; 2) neither surgery nor systemic corticosteroids (SCS). Results: Of 407 patients in the intention-to-treat population, 381 and 343 patients had no sinus surgery by Weeks 24 and 52, respectively. More mepolizumab- versus placebo-treated patients without surgery by Weeks 24 and 52 met each response criteria. Of the mepolizumab-treated patients without surgery by Week 24, 109 (55%) responded across ≥ 3 criteria, increasing to 126 (67%) by Week 52. Similar response trends were seen for patients with neither surgery nor SCS by Weeks 24 and 52. At either timepoint, there were no major differences in baseline characteristics between mepolizumab-treated full- (5/5 categories) and non-responders (0/5 categories). Conclusions: Most patients who completed SYNAPSE required neither surgery nor SCS use and in addition achieved a progressive and sustained clinical response to mepolizumab underscoring the therapeutic benefits of mepolizumab in severe CRSwNP.
Fruit maturity, storage time and pre-sowing water treatment effect on emergence and seedling vigour parameters of bitter wild mango (Irvingia wombolu Vermoesen) seeds in the nursery
Authors: Alaje Ifeoma Veronica , Adebisi Ayodele Moruf , Amadi Okama Joyce , Alaje Adewal Musibau , Adegoke Funmi Folshade , Olalekan Jubril Olawale
Published: February 2023

Poor germination and seedling establishment as well as unavailability of seeds are major problems in sustainable production of Irvingia wombolu. Hence the need to find the right colour fruit maturity, storage time and pre-sowing water treatment on emergence and seedling vigour parameters of bitter wild mango seeds with the aim of improving this multipurpose fruit tree species. Five maturity colour which include green, yellow, yellowish green, greenish brown and dark brown were subjected to 4 water soaking regimes (0, 12, 24 and 36 h) and 4 room temperature storage duration (0, 2, 4 and 6 weeks). Completely randomized design factorial with three replications was used. Data on seed emergence capacity, seedling length, seed vigour index (SVI), stem diameter and number of leaves were subjected to analysis of variance. Results shows that significant differences (P<0.05-P<0.01) were observed in the five quality traits observed due to differences in fruit colour, soaking time and storage time. The three- way interaction between fruit colour, soaking time and storage time were significant ((P<0.05-P<0.01) for all the characters. Dark brown fruit recorded the best in terms of emergence, seedling vigour index, stem diameter and leaf while yellow colour fruit had the best in terms of plant height. Zero-hour soaking had the highest in seedling emergence, seedling vigour index and leaf number while 12 h soaking gave the best effect in terms of plant height and stem diameter. Dark brown and yellow colour fruit of I. wombolu are recommended and short duration of soaking for 0-12 h will enhance the plant height and stem diameter.
Soil Salinity is a Serious Environmental Threat to Plant Diseases- A review
Authors: Mustapha T. , Baita H.U. , Danazumi I.A. , Auyo M.I. , Kutama A.S.
Published: February 2023

The rise in sea level, which causes an increase in salinity in both surface and ground water systems, is among the resultant effects of global climate change. Soil salinity is one of the notable environmental factors contributing to infectious plant diseases. Stress due to soil salinity affects plant tolerance to biotic stress by attenuating their immunity to pathogens leading to prevention of defence genes expression, reduced antioxidant activity and weakening of defence signalling proteins. The pathogen virulence and pathogenicity as well as an enhancement of pathogen development and multiplication are all influenced by soil salinity. Restriction of water absorption, toxic ion build up in plant tissues, nutrient deficiency, hormonal and metabolic imbalance, oxidative stress as physiological effects of salt stress, significantly affect the degree and occurrence of plant diseases. Thus, level of soil salinity is directly proportional to the severity and incidence of plant diseases. Controlling the effect of salinity by improving salinity tolerance in plants and deployment of salinity control measures will provide a long lasting solution on its effect on plant diseases. This will also serve as an approach to plant economic disease control.
Changes in Diurnal Temperature Range Over Nigeria from 1960 to 2019
Authors: Gyuk Nehemiah John , Ekwezuo Chukwudi Samuel , Ezeh Christopher Uche , Ekwezuo Josephine Chinenye
Published: February 2023

Diurnal temperature range (DTR) is an important derived variable used in detecting signature of observed climate changes. Understanding its changes in  recent time is important for managing and coping with climate change induced risks. This study analysed the long term trend and abrupt changes in  diurnal temperature range over Nigeria from 1960 to 2019. Descriptive statistics, Mann-Kendall trend test, Sen’s slope and Pettit’s tests were used to  assess the characteristics, trend, abrupt change and significance in annual DTR time series. Pearson correlation was used to examine the spatial  relationship between DTR and minimum temperature, maximum temperature, precipitation and cloud cover. Results showed that mean DTR amount  varied across spatio-temporal scales with steady increase from the coastal region, coupled with a weak inter-annual variability (CV < 3%). The trend  analysis showed a significant decreasing DTR in most grid points (GP) and regions of Nigeria, with the exception of Enugu, Ado-Ekiti and Warri. Also a  significant negative trend was observed at the Guinea, Sudan and Sahel savanna regions. Abrupt changes occurred in the 1970s in the entire regions and  most of the GPs with Ado-Ekiti, Calabar, and Enugu occurred in 1991 while Maiduguri and Jos experienced such changes in 2011. Furthermore,  significant abrupt changes were observed at the following GPs and regions; Ikeja, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Yelwa, Yola, Guinea, Sudan and Sahel  Savannas. This decrease in DTR over most of the GP and the entire region indicate that the climate of Nigeria is becoming warmer possibly due to  environmental changes with precipitation and cloud cover being the major drivers of DTR variability in Nigeria. Thus, proper climate actions should be  taken through adaptation and resilient planning for the sustainable development of socio-economic and natural systems.
Geochemical and Geological Characterization of Clay in the Eastern Part of Hawal Massif Around Mubi and Environs, Northeastern Nigeria
Authors: Abdulaziz Mohammed , Jude Sunu B. , Abdu Sajo , Ismaila Vela Haruna
Published: February 2023

The geochemical and geological characterization of clay is an important approach to determining the quality and productivity of clay for industrial use.  This paper is aimed at providing detailed geochemistry, distribution, and utilization of clay from the eastern part of Hawal massif. The field study revealed  that clay occurs in Bagira, Vimtim, Didif, Bulamary, Ngavahi, Dou-Gada, Madanya, TudunWada, Moda, and Kwabapale. The clays are residual  deposits formed by weathering of feldspars from the granitic rocks, the clay deposits are restricted to the basal parts of highly weathered granite. The  depth to which the samples were collected ranged from 0.6-1 meter. The clay was analyzed using the Xray Fluorescence (XRF) machine. The average  concentration of the major oxides shows that SiO2 is 38.7%, Al2O3 is 9.62%, Fe2O3 is 5.48%, TiO2 is 0.69% and CaO is 0.598% while MnO, ZrO2, ZnO, V2O5,  CdO, Cr2O3, SnO2 and Sb2O5 all have lower than 0.07%. This result shows that the clay in the study area can serve as a good raw material for the  manufacture of traditional ceramics, refractories, and structural clay products especially burnt bricks.
Assessment of Capsule Related Antibiotic Resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolated from Patients Attending some Hospitals in Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Adamu Abdulwahid Isah , Tsakuwa Rabiu Adamu , Karfi Ibrahim Adamu , Shehu Mujiba Nasir
Published: February 2023

Resistance to antimicrobial substances by pathogenic microorganisms is on the rise since the beginning of modern medicine. Mechanisms; enzymatic degradation, loss of target and antimicrobial interception are employed by bacteria in resisting antimicrobials. Bacterial capsule is a gelatinous outer layer surrounding a bacterial cell composed primarily of polysaccharide. This study assessed the role that the capsule of Pseudomonas aeruginosa played in carbapenem resistance. P. aeruginosa was isolated from 49 (16%) samples out of 300 samples screened. India ink staining technique was used to detect the capsule. Capsule was detected in 42 (86%) of the isolates whereas 7 (14%) of the isolates were non-capsulated. All the capsulated strains were resistant to the antibiotics (Meropenem, Doripenem and Imipenem) whereas the non-capsulated strains were susceptible to the antibiotics. The results of this study however suggest the involvement of capsule in the resistance of the antibiotics employed.
Exploring Recent Themes in African Spiritual Philosophy
Authors: Ibanga Diana-Abasi
Published: February 2023

There are theoretical and thematic shifts in African spiritual philosophy literature on the meaning of spirituality. On the one hand, traditional conceptions  of spirituality are based on the dimensions of transcendence and supernaturalism. Common themes include ritualism, totemism, incantation,  ancestorism, reincarnation, destiny, metempsychosis, witchcraft, death, soul, deities, etc. On the other hand, the evolving trend appeals to naturality and  immanence. Common themes include sacrality, piety, respectability, relatability, existential gratitude, sacred feminine, etc. This work explores these  recent and developing themes. It aims to show that the understanding of spirituality in African modernity is increasingly linked to psychological traits  expressed in attitude and behaviour as against traditional understanding that focused on cultural/ religious practices such as ritualism, ancestorism, and  deities. The analysis reveals that recent studies link the experience of spirituality with wholeness and interdependence, and a recognition of one’s place in  the connective web of other existents in nature
Knowledge Management Tools and Practices for Successful Implementation in Higher Education Institutions in Nigeria
Authors: Afolayan Oluyinka Titilope
Published: February 2023

Knowledge Management (KM) practices have existed for long in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs); although little attention has been given to successful implementation of KM practices as a means of gaining competitive edge and sustainable development. In view of this, this paper discusses knowledge management tools and practices for successful implementation in HEIs in Nigeria. The methodology adopted for this study was a literature search spanning across several studies on KM and their extent of application in HEIs. This paper further discusses elements of KM as applicable to HEIs, KM tools that are required for successful implementation of KM; and the challenges faced by HEIs in applying and sustaining KM principles in their day to day operations and work processes. Policy recommendations were equally made to improving the implementation of KM in HEIs. It was concluded that leadership of HEIs along with Government should show more commitment in the area of funding, procurement of infrastructures and organizing sensitization programmes that would entrench KM culture and sustain its practices.
Morphology and Physico-Mechanical Properties of Resin-bonded Palm Kernel Shell and Coconut Shell Grain-based Sandpaper Composites
Authors: Ajimotokan H. A. , Samuel A. A. , Ajiboye T. K. , Ogedengbe T. S. , Alabi I. O.
Published: February 2023

Due to the challenges associated with using crude oil-derived phenolic- or thermoplastics-based materials, agro-based composites have been used as alternative abrasive grains for abrasive tool manufacturing. This paper examines the morphology and physico-mechanical properties of resin-bonded palm kernel shell (PKS) and coconut shell (CNS) grain-based sandpaper composites and their wear performance. The PKS and CNS were collected, pulverised and screened into 250 and 500 μm grainsizes and mixed at ratios of 1:1, 1:2 and 2:1, respectively. Methyl-ethyl-ketone-peroxide and cobalt naphthalene of 1.5 wt. % each were utilised as hardener and catalyst, respectively for proper bonding of the aggregates with unsaturated polyester resin of compositions 12, 15, 18, 21 and 24 wt. %, respectively. To produce the sandpaper samples, the aggregates were compacted at a pressure of 15 MPa and the samples were cured and their morphology, mechanical, and wear properties were investigated.The shatter index, hardness, and compressive strength varied from 66.36% to 95.76%, 6.52 to 11.3 HRB, and 4.41 to 7.24 MPa, respectively. The wear resistance varied from 0.94 to 1.54 mg/m at 50 oC, and 1.02 to 2.09 mg/m at 150 oC. The properties of the aggregates made from PKS and CNS were found to have much influence on the performance parameters of sandpaper composites.
Buffer-aided Relay Selection Technique in a Cooperative Communication Network
Authors: Ajibowu S. B. , Adeleke O. A. , Ojerinde I. A.
Published: February 2023

The goal of cooperative communication is to increase spatial diversity and wireless network coverage. However, in a classical relaying setup, where a single best relay is chosen to receive the source's data in the first time slot and retransmit in the second time slot regardless of channel circumstances, channel mismatch occurs. In this paper, we have developed an enhanced relay selection technique at the relay nodes that incorporates buffers to address the aforementioned problem. The outage probability and throughput computations are derived using closed-form formulas. The results obtained show that the enhanced relay selection technique gives lower values in outage probability and higher values in throughput when compared with the conventional technique, providing it a desirable strategy for use in technical communication.
Effects of viscous dissipation and joule heating of magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) convective nano fluid heat transfer over a flat porous plate
Authors: Musa A. , Bazuaye F.E.
Published: February 2023

In the present investigation, we studied the effects of Viscous Dissipation and Joule Heating of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) convective heat transfer over a flat porous plate. The governing partial differential equations is expressed into a nonlinear partial differential equation, using a suitable similarity transformation. A semi analytical method of Homotopy Parturbation was applied to solve the equation and the obtained numerical solution for the velocity, temperature and other parameters of the nano fluid are discussed and represented graphically. Also, the effect of other parameters on the velocity and temperature profiles are also presented.
Енергетичні втрати в переробному відділенні виробництва цукру
Authors: Нікульшин Володимир , Денисова Алла , Мельнік Сергій , Височин Віктор , Андрющенко Анатолій
Published: February 2023

Наведено основні енергетичні показники типової схеми виробництва цукру продуктивністю 3000 т цукру на добу. Проведено детальний аналіз споживання теплоти  переробним цехом, яка пов'язана з необхідністю підігріву сировинної стружки від початкової  температури до температури процесу дифузії. Витрата тепла при відборі дифузійного соку є регенераційними втратами, оскільки це тепло не відводиться з технологічного процесу, а лише переходить з дифузійного відділення у відділення сокоочищення. Але процес дифузії бажано проводити таким чином, щоб температура дифузійного соку була якомога нижчою, оскільки це дає можливість більш повно використовувати низькопотенційні вторинні джерела тепла (тепло пари, конденсатів і пари з сатураторів), а також дозволяє збільшити швидкість випаровування в МВУ. Найбільшу частину втрат можуть становити втрати тепла з сирою целюлозою. Вони досягають 75...85% тепла, яке було витрачено на нагрівання стружки до температури процесу дифузії. При відведенні сирої пульпи в пульпову яму все це тепло повністю втрачається, і для забезпечення необхідного температурного режиму процесу дифузії необхідно компенсувати ці втрати. Щоб зменшити ці втрати тепла, доцільно віджимати пульпу в пресах і повертати пресову воду жому в дифузний процес. Пресування доцільно як з технологічної точки зору, оскільки дає змогу зменшити втрати цукру в меззі, так і з термодинамічної, оскільки дає змогу в 1,5. .5 разів зменшити втрату тепла з мезгою, залежно від ступеня його здавлення. Найбільше надходження тепла в дифузний процес відбувається з живильною водою - 67...73% від загальної кількості, що відповідає майже третині всієї кількості пари, що надходить з ТЕЦ на цукровий завод.
Зелений синтез наночастинок оксиду заліза з використанням водної витяжки листя капусти
Authors: Подмокова Катерина , Олефір Богдана , Фесич Ігор
Published: February 2023

Запропоновано простий, надійний, недорогий і екологічно чистий технологічний спосіб синтезу наночастинок оксиду заліза – харчового барвника Е172. Використання принципів зеленої хімії для контрольованого синтезу наночастинок з різною дисперсністю базується на використанні рослинних екстрактів. В якості рослинної сировини для одержання нанопорошку оксиду заліза було обрано капусту білоголову, завдяки її доступності, легкості обробки, дешевизні. Показано, що наявність у складі водної витяжки листя капусти речовин, які проявляють відновні властивості, зокрема полісахаридів, органічних кислот, фенольних сполук, флавоноїдів, позитивно впливає на процеси фазоутворення та розмір частинок кінцевого продукту. Встановлено, що процес синтезу пігментного оксиду заліза в розчині ініціюється не лише температурою, а й завдяки окисно-відновній реакції, яка відбувається між нітрат-аніоном солі заліза та органічними компонентами у витяжці листя капусти. Проведено аналіз сухого залишку після упарювання та порошку після додаткової термообробки при 650 °С методами термогравіметрії (ТГ) і диференціального термічного аналізу (ДТА), ІЧ-спектроскопії та рентгенівської дифракції. За результатами диференційного термічного аналізу сухого залишку після упарювання розчину ферум (ІІІ) нітрату в присутності водного екстракту білоголової капусти було зафіксовано перехід Fe3O4→ γ-Fe2O3 → α-Fe2O3. Методами порошкової рентгенівської дифракції та ІЧ спектроскопії підтверджено, що досліджуваний зразок після прожарювання при 650 °С являє собою оксид заліза α-модифікації зі структурою гематиту. Встановлено, що в залежності від кількості (об’єму) взятої витяжки можна регулювати дисперсність порошку оксиду заліза і, як наслідок, контрольовано змінювати відтінок пігменту.