bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ganadería colectiva e individual en el sistema vaca-becerro en agostaderos de uso común en el Altiplano de México
Authors: Elizalde López Guadalupe Genoveva , Sagarnaga Villegas Leticia Myriam , Salas González José María , Aguilar Ávila Jorge , Barrera Perales Octavio Tadeo
Published: May 2023

Se analizó la producción individual y colectiva del sistema vaca-becerro en agostaderos de uso común, con el objetivo de identificar factores que influyen en su sostenibilidad. Mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas se obtuvo información de 24 ejidos, con la técnica de paneles de ejidatarios ganaderos se recabó información económica y productiva de dos Unidades Representativas de Producción —tanto individual como colectiva—. Los resultados indican que 79% de los ejidos producen en colectivo, gracias a un esquema diseñado que, a su vez, es operado por ejidatarios ganaderos. Al analizar la ganadería colectiva las variables claves con diferencias estadísticas p<0,1 correspondieron al porcentaje de tierras de uso común respecto al total del ejido junto al promedio de hectáreas de uso común por ejidatario; contrario al tamaño del ejido, el número de ejidatarios así como el número de potreros. La alta dependencia de los recursos de uso común como medios de vida para los ganaderos, refiere al incentivo principal para manejar los agostaderos de forma colectiva que se refleja en mayor productividad e ingresos. Lo anterior es consecuencia de la restricción en el acceso al uso común, las economías de escala generadas y la división del trabajo. Los resultados apuntan a que el área de estudio al igual que la gestión organizada, basada en normas de uso colectivo y que imputa un valor económico al uso del agostadero común, potencialmente genera beneficios más altos y sostenibles en tanto se realice dentro de un ambiente de uso restringido para recursos comunes con el fin de no comprometer su permanencia.
Caffeine Enhances 10-km Cycling Performance in Habitual Users Only When Preceded by Caffeine Abstinence
Authors: Griest Timothy D. , Saunders Michael J. , Womack Christopher J. , Luden Nicholas D.
Published: May 2023

Purpose: The primary objective was to assess the performance benefits of caffeine (CAF) supplementation in habitual users. Importantly, this investigation was designed to account for the potential confounding effects of CAF withdrawal (CAFW), which are inherent and common in previous work. Methods: Ten CAF-consuming (394 [146] mg·d−1) recreational cyclists (age 39.1 [14.9] y; maximum oxygen consumption 54.2 [6.2] mL·kg–1·min–1) completed four 10-km time trials (TTs) on a cycle ergometer. On each trial day, 8 hours before reporting to the laboratory, subjects consumed 1.5 mg·kg–1 CAF to prevent withdrawal (no withdrawal [N]) or a placebo (PLA; withdrawal [W]). Then, 1 hour prior to exercise, they received either 6 mg·kg–1 CAF or PLA. These protocols were repeated 4 times, employing all combinations of N/W and CAF/PLA. Results: CAFW did not impair TT power output (PLAW vs PLAN P = .13). However, preexercise CAF only improved TT performance when compared to PLA in the W condition (CAFN vs PLAW P = .008, CAFW vs PLAW P = .04), not when W was mitigated (PLAN vs CAFN P = .33). Conclusions: These data indicate that preexercise CAF only improves recreational cycling performance when compared to bouts preceded by CAF abstinence, suggesting that habitual users may not benefit from 6 mg·kg–1 of CAF and that previous work may have overstated the value of CAF supplementation for habitual users. Future work should examine higher doses of CAF for habitual users.
Mechanism of structural colors in binary mixtures of nanoparticle-based supraballs
Authors: Heil Christian M. , Patil Anvay , Vanthournout Bram , Singla Saranshu , Bleuel Markus , Song Jing-Jin , Hu Ziying , Gianneschi Nathan C. , Shawkey Matthew D. , Sinha Sunil K. , Jayaraman Arthi , Dhinojwala Ali
Published: May 2023

Inspired by structural colors in avian species, various synthetic strategies have been developed to produce noniridescent, saturated colors using nanoparticle assemblies. Nanoparticle mixtures varying in particle chemistry and size have additional emergent properties that affect the color produced. For complex multicomponent systems, understanding the assembled structure and a robust optical modeling tool can empower scientists to identify structure-color relationships and fabricate designer materials with tailored color. Here, we demonstrate how we can reconstruct the assembled structure from small-angle scattering measurements using the computational reverse-engineering analysis for scattering experiments method and use the reconstructed structure in finite-difference time-domain calculations to predict color. We successfully, quantitatively predict experimentally observed color in mixtures containing strongly absorbing nanoparticles and demonstrate the influence of a single layer of segregated nanoparticles on color produced. The versatile computational approach that we present is useful for engineering synthetic materials with desired colors without laborious trial-and-error experiments.
Retarding solid-state reactions enable efficient and stable all-inorganic perovskite solar cells and modules
Authors: Liu Cheng , Sun Xiuhong , Yang Yi , Syzgantseva Olga A. , Syzgantseva Maria A. , Ding Bin , Shibayama Naoyuki , Kanda Hiroyuki , Fadaei Tirani Farzaneh , Scopelliti Rosario , Zhang Shunlin , Brooks Keith G. , Dai Songyuan , Cui Guanglei , Irwin Michael D. , Shao Zhipeng , Ding Yong , Fei Zhaofu , Dyson Paul J. , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: May 2023

All-inorganic CsPbI
3
perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with efficiencies exceeding 20% are ideal candidates for application in large-scale tandem solar cells. However, there are still two major obstacles hindering their scale-up: (i) the inhomogeneous solid-state synthesis process and (ii) the inferior stability of the photoactive CsPbI
3
black phase. Here, we have used a thermally stable ionic liquid,
bis
(triphenylphosphine)iminium
bis
(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([PPN][TFSI]), to retard the high-temperature solid-state reaction between Cs
4
PbI
6
and DMAPbI
3
[dimethylammonium (DMA)], which enables the preparation of high-quality and large-area CsPbI
3
films in the air. Because of the strong Pb-O contacts, [PPN][TFSI] increases the formation energy of superficial vacancies and prevents the undesired phase degradation of CsPbI
3
. The resulting PSCs attained a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 20.64% (certified 19.69%) with long-term operational stability over 1000 hours. A record efficiency of 16.89% for an all-inorganic perovskite solar module was achieved, with an active area of 28.17 cm
2
.
Radiation chorioretinopathy: unusual occurrence of intervortex venous anastomosis
Authors: Lakhmawar Pratik Kishan , Brar Anand Singh , Behera Umesh Chandra
Published: May 2023

A woman in her 60s presented with vision blur in both eyes, a year post-radiotherapy for oral cancer. The best corrected visual acuity was 20/40 in both eyes. Posterior segment examination was remarkable for a unilateral intervortex venous anastomosis in choroid in her right eye, on the side of her face that had received radiation. Ultra-wide field indocyanine green angiography complimented the clinical findings. We discuss the ramifications of detection of this entity and suggest non-invasive methods of detection.
Insulin resistance, age and depression’s impact on cognition in middle-aged adults from the PREVENT cohort
Authors: Bauermeister Sarah D , Ben Yehuda Michael , Reid Graham , Howgego Gregory , Ritchie Karen , Watermeyer Tam , Gregory Sarah , Terrera Graciela Muniz , Koychev Ivan
Published: May 2023

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), type 2 diabetes mellitus (characterised by insulin resistance) and depression are significant challenges facing public health. Research has demonstrated common comorbidities among these three conditions, typically focusing on two of them at a time.

Objective

The goal of this study, however, was to assess the inter-relationships between the three conditions, focusing on mid-life (defined as age 40–59) risk before the emergence of dementia caused by AD.

Methods

In the current study, we used cross-sectional data from 665 participants from the cohort study, PREVENT.

Findings

Using structural equation modelling, we showed that (1) insulin resistance predicts executive dysfunction in older but not younger adults in mid-life, that (2) insulin resistance predicts self-reported depression in both older and younger middle-aged adults and that (3) depression predicts deficits in visuospatial memory in older but not younger adults in mid-life.

Conclusions

Together, we demonstrate the inter-relations between three common non-communicable diseases in middle-aged adults.

Clinical implications

We emphasise the need for combined interventions and the use of resources to help adults in mid-life to modify risk factors for cognitive impairment, such as depression and diabetes.
Interactions between Australian cancer physicians and the pharmaceutical industry: a qualitative study
Authors: Pokorny Adrian M J , Bero Lisa A , Fox Peter , Karikios Deme J , McEwin Eliza J , Moynihan Ray , Mintzes Barbara
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To understand how and why Australian cancer physicians interact with the pharmaceutical industry.

Design

Qualitative study using semistructured interviews, performed by a medical oncologist. Thematic analysis using a combination of deductive and inductive codes.

Setting

Given the evidence on industry influences on clinical practice and the importance to the market of oncology drugs, we sought to better understand cancer physicians’ experiences. Practising consultant medical oncologists and clinical haematologists from four Australian states were interviewed over Zoom.

Participants

16 cancer physicians were interviewed between November 2021 and March 2022, from 37 invited (response rate 43%). Most were medical oncologists (n=12 of 16, 75%) and male (n=9 of 16, 56%).

Outcome measures

The analysis of all interviews was based on grounded theory. Transcripts were coded and then codes formed into themes with supporting quotes. The themes were then placed into categories, used to describe the broad areas into which the themes could be grouped.

Results

Six themes were identified that fell within two broad categories: cancer physicians’views and experiences of interactionsandmanagement of these interactions. Views and experiences included: the transactional nature of relationships, risks of research dependence, ethical challenges and varied attitudes based on interaction type. Management themes included: lack of useful guidance and reduced interactions during the COVID-19 pandemic. These led to an overarching seventh theme, on the desire for a ‘middle road’. Cancer physicians identified the transactional nature of industry relationships and felt uncomfortable with several types of interactions, including those with sales representatives. Most wanted less contact with industry, and the forced separation that occurred with the COVID-19 pandemic was generally welcome.

Conclusions

Cancer physicians may have difficulty balancing the perceived need to interact with industry in modern cancer care while maintaining distance to minimise conflicts of interest. Further research is needed to assess management strategies in this area.
The Zoom RDL radial access system for neurointervention: An early single-center experience
Authors: Morsi Rami Z , Kothari Sachin A , Thind Sonam , Desai Harsh , Polster Sean P , Goldenberg Fernando , Coleman Elisheva , Brorson James R , Mendelson Scott , Mansour Ali , Prabhakaran Shyam , Kass-Hout Tareq
Published: May 2023

Background

The transradial approach (TRA) for neurointerventional procedures is increasingly being used given its technical feasibility and safety. However, catheter trackability and device deliverability are reported barriers to TRA adoption.

Methods

This is the first report describing the technical feasibility and performance of using the Zoom RDL Radial Access System (Imperative Care, Inc., Campbell, CA) in 29 patients who underwent neurointerventional procedures from October 2022 to January 2023 in a single-center institution.

Results

Mean age of the study population was 61.9±17.2 years, 79.3% were male (23/29), and 62.1% were black (18/29). The most common procedures were stroke thrombectomy (31.0%, 9/29) and aneurysm embolization (27.6%, 8/29). All the stroke thrombectomy procedures were successfully performed; first-pass effect rate (mTICI≥2 c in one pass) was achieved in 66.7% (6/9) of cases. We used TRA in 86.2% of cases (25/29), including distal radial/snuffbox access in 31.0% (9/29) of cases. The radial diameter was >2 mm for all cases. An intermediate/aspiration catheter was used in 89.7% (26/29) of cases. Access success was achieved in 89.7% of cases (26/29); two cases required conversion from TRA to transfemoral approach (6.9%) and one case required conversion to a different guide catheter (3.4%). There were no access site complications or other Zoom RDL-related complications. One intracerebral hemorrhage, and one procedure-related thrombus were observed.

Conclusions

The use of Zoom RDL Radial Access System is technically feasible and effective for complex neurointerventional procedures with low complication rates.
Red cell haemolysis secondary to intraosseous (IO) blood transfusion in adult patients with major trauma: a systematic review
Authors: Ellington Matt , Walker I , Barnard E
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Intraosseous (IO) administration of medications and blood products is accepted practice in major trauma when intravenous access is not immediately available. However, there is a concern that the high infusion pressures required for IO transfusion may increase the risk of red cell haemolysis and its associated complications. The aim of this systematic review is to synthesise the existing evidence describing the risks of red cell haemolysis in IO blood transfusion.

Methods

We undertook a systematic search of MEDLINE, CINAHL and EMBASE using the search terms: “intraosseous transfusion” and “haemolysis”. Two authors independently screened abstracts, and reviewed full-text articles against the inclusion criteria. Reference lists of included studies were reviewed and a grey literature search undertaken. Studies were assessed for risk of bias. Inclusion criteria were: all human and animal study types that reported novel data on IO-associated red cell haemolysis. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline was used.

Results

Twenty-three abstracts were identified; n=9 full papers met the inclusion criteria. No further studies were identified from reference lists or grey literature. These papers included: seven large animal translational studies, a prospective and a retrospective human study. The overall risk of bias was high. One animal study with good translatability to adult patients with trauma demonstrated haemolysis. Other animal studies had methodological constraints that limit their human applicability. No haemolysis was observed in low-density flat bones (sternum), whereas haemolysis was reported in long bones (humerus, tibia). IO infusion using a three-way tap was associated with haemolysis. Conversely, pressure bag transfusion was not associated with haemolysis, but this method may result in insufficient flow rates for effective resuscitation.

Conclusions

There is a paucity of high-quality evidence surrounding the risks of red cell haemolysis in IO blood transfusion. However, evidence from one study suggests that the likelihood is increased by use of a three-way tap to administer blood transfusion to young adult male patients with trauma. Further research is needed to address this important clinical question.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022318902.
Cancer pain assessment and management: does an institutional approach individualise and reduce cost of care?
Authors: Diernberger Katharina , Clausen Eleanor , Murray Gordon , Wee Bee , Kaasa Stein , Hall Peter , Fallon Marie
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To understand individual prescribing and associated costs in patients managed with the Edinburgh Pain Assessment and management Tool (EPAT).

Methods

The EPAT study was a two-arm parallel group cluster randomised (1:1) trial, including 19 UK cancer centres. Study outcome assessments, including pain levels, analgesia and non-pharmacological and anaesthetic interventions, collected at baseline, 3–5 days and, if applicable, 7–10 days after admission. Costs calculated for inpatient length of stay (LoS), medications and complex pain interventions. Analysis accounted for the clustered nature of the trial design. In this post-hoc analysis, healthcare utilisation and costs are presented descriptively.

Participants

10 centres randomised to EPAT (487 patients) and 9 (449 patients) to usual care (UC).

Main outcome measures

Pharmacological and non-pharmacological management, complex pain interventions, length of hospital stay and costs related to these outcomes.

Results

The mean per patient hospital cost was £3866 with EPAT and £4194 with UC, reflecting a mean LoS of 2.9 days and 3.1 days, respectively. Costs were lower for non-opioids, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) and opioids but slightly higher for adjuvants with EPAT than with UC. The mean per-patient opioid costs were £17.90 (EPAT) and £25.80 (UC). Mean per patient costs of all medication were £36 (EPAT) and £40 (UC).

Complex pain intervention costs were £117 with EPAT per patient and £90 with UC. Overall mean cost per patient was £4018.3 (95% CI 3698.9 to 4337.8) with EPAT and £4323.8 (95% CI 4060.0 to 4587.7) with UC.

Conclusions

EPAT facilitated personalised medicine and may result in less opioids, more specific treatments, improved pain outcomes and cost savings.
Variation in the electronic, mechanical, and structural properties among the polymorphs of bismuth ferrite: a first-principles approach
Authors: Srihari N. V. , Nayak Sanjay , Poornesh P. , Nagaraja K. K.
Published: May 2023

Bismuth ferrite has been under intense research for many years as it can exhibit first- and second-order transitions where all the phases have distinct properties encapsulating various exciting phenomena. This work reports a computational study of bismuth ferrite and its varied phases using density functional theory with the implementation of Hubbard correction for increased accuracy. The proposed method is validated through Linear Response Theory using Quantum ESPRESSO. The phase transition and the mechanical properties are explored by calculating elastic tensors for different polymorphs. A negative Poisson's ratio for the tetragonal phase supporting its growth in compressive environments is predicted. The electronic properties of different phases of bismuth ferrite are explored, which helps in understanding properties such as charge transfer excitation, metal–insulator transition, ferroelectric nature based on lone pair charges and orbital hybridization. The phonon modes of different phases are also investigated.

Graphical abstract
Noncommutativity and physics: a non-technical review
Authors: Chamseddine Ali H. , Connes Alain , van Suijlekom Walter D.
Published: May 2023

We give an overview of the applications of noncommutative geometry to physics. Our focus is entirely on the conceptual ideas, rather than on the underlying technicalities. Starting historically from the Heisenberg relations, we will explain how in general noncommutativity yields a canonical time evolution, while at the same time allowing for the coexistence of discrete and continuous variables. The spectral approach to geometry is then explained to encompass two natural ingredients: the line element and the algebra. The relation between these two is dictated by so-called higher Heisenberg relations, from which both spin geometry and non-abelian gauge theory emerges. Our exposition indicates some of the applications in physics, including Pati–Salam unification beyond the Standard Model, the criticality of dimension 4, second quantization and entropy.
A sharp characterization of the Willmore invariant
Authors: Blitz Samuel
Published: May 2023

First introduced to describe surfaces embedded in [Formula: see text], the Willmore invariant is a conformally-invariant extrinsic scalar curvature of a surface that vanishes when the surface minimizes bending and stretching. Both this invariant and its higher-dimensional analogs appear frequently in the study of conformal geometric systems. To that end, we provide a characterization of the Willmore invariant in general dimensions. In particular, we provide a sharp sufficient condition for the vanishing of the Willmore invariant and show that in even dimensions it can be described fully using conformal fundamental forms and one additional tensor.
Solutions of one-dimensional Dirac equation associated with exceptional orthogonal polynomials and the parametric symmetry
Authors: Banerjee Suman , Yadav Rajesh Kumar , Khare Avinash , Kumari Nisha , Prasad Mandal Bhabani
Published: May 2023

We consider one-dimensional Dirac equation with rationally extended scalar potentials corresponding to the radial oscillator, the trigonometric Scarf and the hyperbolic Pöschl–Teller potentials and obtain their solution in terms of exceptional orthogonal polynomials. Further, in the case of the trigonometric Scarf and the hyperbolic Pöschl–Teller cases, a new family of Dirac scalar potentials is generated using the idea of parametric symmetry and their solutions are obtained in terms of conventional as well as exceptional orthogonal polynomials.
Design and Analysis of Low-Voltage and Low-Power 19T FinFET-TGDI-Based Hybrid Full Adders
Authors: Bhau Parthiv , Savani Vijay
Published: May 2023

This paper proposes two 19 transistor (19T) hybrid adder designs based on Fin Field Effect Transistor-Transmission Gate Diffusion Input (FinFET-TGDI) technique. The performance of these designs is compared with various state-of-the-art adders, and the simulations are carried out using 18[Formula: see text]nm FinFET technology in the Cadence Virtuoso tool at a supply voltage of 0.8[Formula: see text]V and nominal temperature. Results show that the proposed adders outperform the conventional Mirror adder, achieving a 25% improvement in maximum propagation delay, a 20% improvement in average power, and a 39% improvement in Power Delay Product (PDP). Both proposed adders also demonstrate significant benefits in terms of Figure of Merit (FoM) when compared with other reported architectures. The simulations also consider variations in the nominal supply voltage of 10% and temperature variations from −55[Formula: see text]C to 125[Formula: see text]C for the PDP of all adders. Furthermore, the post-layout simulation results for both proposed adder architectures under nominal supply voltage are presented. To assess the robustness of the circuits, process corner analysis and Monte Carlo analysis are performed for all adder architectures.
Regular semigroups weakly generated by idempotents
Authors: Oliveira Luís
Published: May 2023

A regular semigroup is weakly generated by a set [Formula: see text] if it has no proper regular subsemigroup containing [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we study the regular semigroups weakly generated by idempotents. We show there exists a regular semigroup [Formula: see text] weakly generated by [Formula: see text] idempotents such that all other regular semigroups weakly generated by [Formula: see text] idempotents are homomorphic images of [Formula: see text]. The semigroup [Formula: see text] is defined by a presentation [Formula: see text] and its structure is studied. Although each of the sets [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] is infinite for [Formula: see text], we show that the word problem is decidable as each congruence class has a “canonical form”. If [Formula: see text] denotes [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text], we prove also that [Formula: see text] contains copies of all [Formula: see text] as subsemigroups. As a consequence, we conclude that (i) all regular semigroups weakly generated by a finite set of idempotents, which include all finitely idempotent generated regular semigroups, strongly divide [Formula: see text]; and (ii) all finite semigroups divide [Formula: see text].
Link-homotopy classes of 4-component links, claspers and the Habegger–Lin algorithm
Authors: Kotorii Yuka , Mizusawa Atsuhiko
Published: May 2023

Two links are link-homotopic if they are transformed into each other by a sequence of self-crossing changes and ambient isotopies. The link-homotopy classes of links with up to three components were classified by the Milnor homotopy invariants. Levine investigated the indeterminacy of Milnor homotopy invariants and gave a classification of the link-homotopy classes of 4-component links. In this paper, we give another classification of the link-homotopy classes of 4-component links by using the clasper theory. This classification is obtained through a tetrahedron standard form of the link-homotopy classes of 4-component links. As an application, we give several new subsets of the link-homotopy classes of 4-component links which are classified by computable invariants. Moreover, the classification allows us to run the Habegger–Lin algorithm which determines whether two given links are link-homotopic or not.
Numerical Investigation of the Dynamic Effects on the Fatigue Behaviour of a Transmission Chain in a Hybrid Power Unit
Authors: Mangeruga Valerio , Renso Fabio , Barbieri Saverio Giulio , Giacopini Matteo , Raimondi Francesco
Published: May 2023

This paper is part of an activity related to a specific hybridization process for an existing and commercialized motorcycle engine. The electric motor is mechanically connected to the engine using the original valvetrain transmission chain leading to a P0 hybrid architecture. The aim of this work is to analyze the structural behavior of the chain now used as torque transmission device. Although, on one side, the maximum torque of the electric motor induces a stress state on the chain lower than its fatigue limit, on the other side, the dynamic behavior of the system strongly influences the maximum stress on the chain. In fact, the main source of load on the chain is derived from the torsional oscillation of the system. Engines’ rotational speed irregularity can be easily estimated through common analytical approaches which consider the contribution of combustion and inertial forces on the instantaneous torque produced by the crank mechanism and the overall inertia of the moving parts. In addition, more detailed lumped-parameters and Multibody dynamic models are here developed in order to estimate the actual instantaneous engine speed taking into account the onset of possible high-order vibration phenomena. Specifically, the influence of the torsional vibration behavior of the internal combustion engine is investigated on the resulting stress on the chain. Finally, the structural chain integrity is assessed by performing a fatigue analysis considering the actual operating conditions.
Integrated Computing Platform for Detection and Tracking of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP)
Authors: Cloete Richard , Bridgham Phillip , Dobroshinsky Sergei , Ezell Carson , Fedorenko Andriy , Laukien Frank , Little Sarah , Loeb Abraham , Masson Eric , Szenher Matthew , Watters Wesley Andrés , White Abigail
Published: May 2023

The Galileo Project aims to shed light on the nature and characteristics of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP). We are developing a multi-modal instrumentation suite that will monitor the sky in seven electromagnetic and three audio bands. Computing will play a critical role in this project, enabling the automated collection and processing of data. In this paper, we provide a brief overview of data sources, and describe our plan for computing infrastructure and architecture. We present a proposed real-time pipeline for distinguishing between natural and human-made phenomena, and for detecting objects that fall outside the phenomenological envelope of known phenomena. In addition, we outline the algorithms we will test and evaluate for use in offline data analysis. While preliminary, our work represents a significant step towards a unified data capture and analysis platform for the systematic detection and rigorous scientific study of unusual aerial phenomena in a regional airspace.
Optimization of Antenna Performance for Global 21 cm Observations and Verification Using Scaled Copies
Authors: Restrepo O. A. , Lucero F. I. , Chaparro G. , Rodriguez R. , Pizarro F. , Bustos R. , Díaz M. , Mena F. P.
Published: May 2023

The sky-averaged cosmological 21 cm signal can improve our understanding of the evolution of the early Universe from the Dark Age to the end of the Epoch of Reionization. Although the EDGES experiment reported an absorption profile of this signal, there have been concerns about the plausibility of these results, motivating independent validation experiments. One of these initiatives is the Mapper of the IGM Spin Temperature (MIST), which is planned to be deployed at different remote locations around the world. One of its key features is that it seeks to comprehensively compensate for systematic uncertainties through detailed modeling and characterization of its different instrumental subsystems, particularly its antenna. Here we propose a novel optimizing scheme which can be used to design an antenna applied to MIST, improving bandwidth, return loss, and beam chromaticity. This new procedure combines the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm with a commercial electromagnetic simulation software (HFSS). We improved the performance of two antenna models: a rectangular blade antenna, similar to the one used in the EDGES experiment, and a trapezoidal bow-tie antenna. Although the performance of both antennas improved after applying our optimization method, we found that our bow-tie model outperforms the blade antenna by achieving lower reflection losses and beam chromaticity in the entire band of interest. To further validate the optimization process, we also built and characterized 1:20 scale models of both antenna types showing an excellent agreement with our simulations.
Policy Note: Artificial Intelligence Enables Multi-Dimensional Economics of Water
Authors: Harou Julien J.
Published: May 2023

Can artificial intelligence (AI) help enable a new pluralistic and multi-dimensional cost-benefit analysis (CBA) for complex human-natural systems? Yes, it can. This policy brief quickly summarizes the history of water economics and considers how environment and infrastructure planners and investors can exploit a new approach to address today’s climate, water scarcity and environmental inequity crises.
GraphTune: An Efficient Dependency-Aware Substrate to Alleviate Irregularity in Concurrent Graph Processing
Authors: Zhao Jin , Zhang Yu , He Ligang , Li Qikun , Zhang Xiang , Jiang Xinyu , Yu Hui , Liao Xiaofei , Jin Hai , Gu Lin , Liu Haikun , He Bingsheng , Zhang Ji , Song Xianzheng , Wang Lin , Zhou Jun
Published: May 2023

With the increasing need for graph analysis, massive
Concurrent iterative Graph Processing
(CGP) jobs are usually performed on the common large-scale real-world graph. Although several solutions have been proposed, these CGP jobs are not coordinated with the consideration of the inherent dependencies in graph data driven by graph topology. As a result, they suffer from redundant and fragmented accesses of the same underlying graph dispersed over distributed platform, because the same graph is typically irregularly traversed by these jobs along different paths at the same time.

In this work, we develop
GraphTune
, which can be integrated into existing distributed graph processing systems, such as D-Galois, Gemini, PowerGraph, and Chaos, to efficiently perform CGP jobs and enhance system throughput. The key component of GraphTune is a dependency-aware synchronous execution engine in conjunction with several optimization strategies based on the constructed cross-iteration dependency graph of chunks. Specifically, GraphTune transparently regularizes the processing behavior of the CGP jobs in a novel synchronous way and assigns the chunks of graph data to be handled by them based on the topological order of the dependency graph so as to maximize the performance. In this way, it can transform the irregular accesses of the chunks into more regular ones so that as many CGP jobs as possible can fully share the data accesses to the common graph. Meanwhile, it also efficiently synchronizes the communications launched by different CGP jobs based on the dependency graph to minimize the communication cost. We integrate it into four cutting-edge distributed graph processing systems and a popular out-of-core graph processing system to demonstrate the efficiency of GraphTune. Experimental results show that GraphTune improves the throughput of CGP jobs by 3.1∼6.2, 3.8∼8.5, 3.5∼10.8, 4.3∼12.4, and 3.8∼6.9 times over D-Galois, Gemini, PowerGraph, Chaos, and GraphChi, respectively.
A “Master Curve” Describing Reaction Inhomogeneity and Plating Onset during Fast-Charging of Graphite Electrodes
Authors: Mijailovic Aleksandar S. , Wang Guanyi , Luo Mei , Lu Wenquan , Wu Qingliu , Sheldon Brian W.
Published: May 2023

Lithium plating in porous graphite electrodes is a major limitation for fast charging. Theoretical evidence suggests plating during fast charging is largely due to inhomogeneous intercalation through the electrode thickness (caused by ionic/mass transfer limitations and inherent thermodynamic properties of the graphite material). Numerical and analytical predictions of plating onset during fast charging have been proposed but not compared directly with experiments. This work validates these model predictions against plating onset measurements via the “dOCV” method in graphite half-cells, for various electrode thicknesses and C-rates. Remarkably, it is shown that experimental and theoretical trends in plating onset (vs C-rate and electrode thickness) collapse to a single “master curve” using a nondimensional “reaction inhomogeneity” parameter. This observation supports the hypothesized reaction inhomogeneity mechanism for accelerating plating onset and provides practical guidance for electrode design. Furthermore, this work develops theory to quantify reaction inhomogeneity in situ directly from voltage V vs capacity Q data, using dQ/dV analysis. Here again, experiments and numerical predictions show good agreement, where peaks that correspond to LiC6 correlate with plating onset. This work provides experimental validation of theoretical tools that can predict plating onset, aid electrode design, and give insight for plating onset mechanisms during fast charging.
Effect of Ambient Temperature and Discharge Current on Thermo-Electrochemical Behaviour of Lithium-Ion Cells Using Surrogate Modelling and Analysis
Authors: Gupta Raghvendra , Singh Bahga Supreet , Gupta Amit
Published: May 2023

The thermal behaviour of lithium-ion cells plays a critical role in their overall performance and safety. The cell temperature fluctuates during operation due to varying operating conditions, particularly discharge current and ambient temperature. Thus, a precise thermo-electrochemical characterization is imperative for comprehending the behaviour of these cells under a wide range of operating conditions. Through experimental measurements, this study endeavours to determine the dependence of the thermo-electrochemical response of commercial lithium-ion cells as a function of discharge rates and ambient temperatures. High-fidelity reduced-order models are established using surrogate-based techniques to formulate response surfaces for the relevant output parameters, which enables the estimation of these parameters in cases where experiments were not performed. The study reaffirms that an increase in the discharge current rate results in an increase in the temperature difference between the core and surface of the cell. Also, a low ambient temperature has a relatively higher adverse impact on the battery performance, given the same discharge current. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis reveals that cell temperature, discharge capacity, and average discharge energy are more sensitive to ambient temperature than discharge current. On the other hand, the average discharge power is insensitive to ambient temperature and primarily dependent on the discharge current.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Associated with Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Pond Fertilization in Western Kenya
Authors: Odinga S. A. , Sifuna A. , Lungayia H. , Wanyama G.
Published: May 2023

In the recent past, fish farming has gained great prominence in Kenya as the country straggles to meet food security. Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus L.) farming has attracted the most demand, with the use of manure to enhance primary productivity in fish ponds being encouraged as a form of increasing productivity and returns on investment. The objective of this study was to understand the role of Nile tilapia farming in greenhouse emissions (GHGEs) in the region. Generally, there is paucity of such information originating from sub-Saharan Africa. Here, we report the levels of methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from Nile tilapia fish ponds fertilized with organic and inorganic fertilizers. We also try to establish if there exists any relationship between GHGEs and physicochemical parameters (PCPs). The methane fluxes ranged from 0.001 to 0.043°mg·m−2h−1 in UF ponds, 0.005 to 0.068°mg·m−2h−1 in IF ponds, and 0.001 to 0.375°mg·m−2h−1 in OF ponds. The findings show that the fluxes were significantly different (

P
<
0.05

). Mean fluxes of CO2 did not show significant difference among the treatments (

P
>
0.05

), ranging from −0.180 to 1.40°mg·m−2h−1 in UF ponds, −0.020 to 1.101°mg·m−2h−1 in IF ponds, and −0.049 to 1.746°mg m−2h−1 in OF ponds. N2O mean fluxes were not significantly different (

P
>
0.05

), ranging from −0.628 to 0.326°µgm−2h−1 in UF ponds, −0.049 to 0.187°µgm−2h−1 in IF ponds, and −0.022 to 1.384°µgm−2h−1 in OF ponds. UF had a mean flux of −0.003 ± 0.175°µgm−2h−1, IF had a mean flux of 0.032 ± 0.056°µgm−2h−1 and OF had a mean flux of 0.093 ± 0.324°µgm−2h−1. There was significant difference in the carbon to nitrogen (CN) ratio among the fertilization treatments (

P
<
0.05

), whereas temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity showed no significant difference among the fertilization treatments (

P
>
0.05

). The study observed that fertilization of Nile tilapia ponds significantly increases the release of CH4 emission and the CN ratio. Temperature, conductivity, and CN positively correlated with CH4, CO2, and N2O emissions. Dissolved oxygen showed a negative correlation with CH4 and CO2 emissions while negatively correlated with N2O emissions. The study identified the use of OF as a potential form of fish farming that promotes the emission of GHGEs and calls for adoption of sustainable technologies for the management of organic and inorganic fertilizers before their use in pond fertilization.
Training Based on Simulation Pedagogy: Evaluation of Participants’ Satisfaction with the First National Forum on Simulation in Nursing in Morocco
Authors: El-Mouhdi K. , Et-tayyeby K. , Dahmani F. , Milouk F. Z. , El Ouali Lalami A.
Published: May 2023

Simulation in nursing is considered an innovative pedagogy for the development of clinical skills of nursing staff. A National Forum was held for the first time in Morocco concerning the pedagogy of simulation in nursing to raise awareness among educators and practitioners on the educational value of such an initiative in the field of nursing. The goals of this study were to describe the development of the first National Forum in Morocco on Nursing Simulation and to assess the satisfaction of participants with the different activities of this national event. A self-administered questionnaire was used in this study. Descriptive statistics and correlation tests were used to assess the level of participant satisfaction with the simulation. This event gathered more than 250 participants from different Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Techniques (HINPHT) of Morocco during the 3rd, 4th, and 5th of June 2022 held at the HINPHT institute of Fez. 163 participants agreed to take part in our satisfaction survey in which 39.3% were nursing teachers and 6.7% were directors of nursing and technical health professions training institutes and 41.7% were nursing students. The participants evaluated the different pillars of the first National Forum on Nursing Simulation in Morocco and reported a general satisfaction of 80.8%. Directors showed higher satisfaction with the organization with a score of 88.89% (

p
=
0.001

), while teachers reported higher satisfaction with the Master Class workshop (65.27%;

p
=
0.003

). Students’ satisfaction scores were positively correlated (86.36%;

p
=
0.004

) with the usefulness and applicability of the knowledge acquired during the event. Nevertheless, dissatisfaction was recorded with the mediation of the Forum (8.6%), the duration of the Master Class (13.5%), and the quality of the technical and logistical material used (7.4%). These aspects should be improved in future editions. The findings of this scientific event could be of great interest to the organizers of future forums on nursing simulation in the Maghreb region and Africa more generally, and could serve as a model.
Distribution, Prevalence, and Antibiotic Susceptibility Profiles of Infectious Noncholera Vibrio Species in Malaysia
Authors: Hassan Murnihayati , Mohd Ali Mohammad Ridhuan , Zamri Hana Farizah , Nor Amdan Nur Asyura , Azmai Mohammad Noor Amal , Maniam Saraswathiy , Mohamed Alipiah Norfarrah , Hashim Rohaidah
Published: May 2023

Background. The noncholera Vibrio spp. which cause vibriosis are abundantly found in our water ecosystem. These bacteria could negatively affect both humans and animals. To date, there is a paucity of information available on the existence and pathogenicity of this particular noncholera Vibrio spp. in Malaysia in comparison to their counterpart, Vibrio cholera. Methods. In this study, we extracted retrospective data from Malaysian surveillance database. Analysis was carried out using WHONET software focusing noncholera Vibrio spp. including Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Vibrio vulnificus, Vibrio fluvialis, Vibrio alginolyticus, Vibrio hollisae (Grimontia hollisae), Vibrio mimicus, Vibrio metschnikovii, and Vibrio furnissii. Results. Here, we report the first distribution and prevalence of these species isolated in Malaysia together with the antibiotic sensitivity profile based on the species. We found that V. parahaemolyticus is the predominant species isolated in Malaysia. Noticeably, across the study period, V. fluvialis is becoming more prevalent, as compared to V. parahaemolyticus. In addition, this study also reports the first isolation of pathogenic V. furnissii from stool in Malaysia. Conclusion. These data represent an important step toward understanding the potential emergence of noncholera Vibrio spp. outbreaks.
Prevalence and Determinants of Multiple Forms of Malnutrition among Adults with Different Body Mass Index: A Population‐Based Survey in the Philippines
Authors: Hsu Wan-Chen , de Juras Aileen R. , Hu Susan C.
Published: May 2023

Background. The multiple forms of malnutrition, including overnutrition, undernutrition, and diet‐related noncommunicable diseases, are emerging crises in Asian countries. Past studies have focused more on malnutrition among overweight/obese individuals; however, limited research has examined chronic energy‐deficient adults. Therefore, this study is aimed at investigating the prevalence and determinants of different forms of malnutrition among adults with different body mass index, using the Philippines as an example. Findings from this study will guide the development and implementation of public health nutrition programs and policies. Methods. A representative dataset from the 2013 Philippine National Nutrition Survey was used in the study. Adults aged ≥20 years (n = 16,826) were included in the analysis after excluding those with missing values. Six phenotypes of malnutrition were assessed, including three in overweight/obese adults (overweight/obese with metabolic syndrome; those with micronutrient deficiency–anemia, vitamin A deficiency, and iodine insufficiency; and those with both metabolic syndrome and micronutrient deficiency) and three in chronic energy‐deficient (CED) adults (CED with either metabolic syndrome or micronutrient deficiency and with both metabolic syndrome and micronutrient deficiency). Sociodemographic and lifestyle factors were examined as the determinants of different forms of malnutrition, and multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed. Results. The prevalence of the six phenotypes of malnutrition ranged from 0.4% to 10.2%, where overweight/obese with metabolic syndrome was the most predominant type. The multinomial logistic regression models indicated that older age was the major risk factor across all phenotypes. Sex was associated with the outcomes in the overweight/obesity group, whereas employment status was correlated with CED adults. Furthermore, higher educational levels, being married, living in affluent households, and not smoking were protective factors for conditions related to CED but not overweight/obese individuals. Conclusion. Malnutrition in all its forms is a significant public health concern that must be understood and addressed. Policymakers should implement appropriate intervention programs to control these nutritional problems considering the specific risk factors for the adult population.
The Efficacy of Individualized, Community-Based Physical Activity to Aid Smoking Cessation: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Stockton Michelle B. , Ward Kenneth D. , McClanahan Barbara S. , Vander Weg Mark W. , Coday Mace , Wilson Nancy , Relyea George , Read Mary C. , Connelly Stephanie , Johnson Karen C. , Mohamed Haniki
Published: May 2023

Objective. The efficacy of individualized, community-based physical activity as an adjunctive smoking cessation treatment to enhance long-term smoking cessation rates was evaluated for the Lifestyle Enhancement Program (LEAP). Methods. The study was a two-arm, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial. All participants (n = 392) received cessation counseling and a nicotine patch and were randomized to physical activity (n = 199; YMCA membership and personalized exercise programming from a health coach) or an equal contact frequency wellness curriculum (n = 193). Physical activity treatment was individualized and flexible (with each participant selecting types of activities and intensity levels and being encouraged to exercise at the YMCA and at home, as well as to use “lifestyle” activity). The primary outcome (biochemically verified prolonged abstinence at 7-weeks (end of treatment) and 6- and 12-months postcessation) and secondary outcomes (7-day point prevalent tobacco abstinence (PPA), total minutes per week of leisure time physical activity and strength training) were assessed at baseline, 7 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months. Results. Prolonged abstinence in the physical activity and wellness groups was 19.6% and 25.4%, respectively, at 7-weeks, 15.1% and 16.6% at 6-months, and 14.1% and 17.1% at 12 months (all between-group P values >0.18). Similarly, PPA rates did not differ significantly between groups at any follow-up. Change from baseline leisure-time activity plus strength training increased significantly in the physical activity group at 7 weeks (P = 0.04). Across treatment groups, an increase in the number of minutes per week in strength training from baseline to 7 weeks predicted prolonged abstinence at 12 months (P ≤ 0.001). Further analyses revealed that social support, fewer years smoked, and less temptation to smoke were associated with prolonged abstinence over 12 months in both groups. Conclusions. Community-based physical activity programming, delivered as adjunctive treatment with behavioral/pharmacological cessation treatment, did not improve long-term quit rates compared to adjunctive wellness counseling plus behavioral/pharmacological cessation treatment. This trial is registered with https://beta.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT00403312, registration no. NCT00403312.