bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of Fractional Order PI DC-DC Converter Based on Dual Closed-loop Control
Authors: Wu Meimei , Ma Hailong , Wei Qingjin , Wang Tonglin , Chen Yanyan
Published: May 2023

In this paper, the dual closed-loop control strategy with fractional-order PI is applied to the field of the DC-DC converter, which effectively improves the dynamic performance and static performance of the output voltage of the power electronic DC chopper converter. The open-loop transfer function of the Boost converter is obtained by modeling and analyzing the operating principle and small-signal model of the Boost converter, and the fractional-order PI parameters of the double closed-loop control are obtained by combining the frequency-domain analysis design method of control theory. The Simulink simulation model is built, and the fractional-order PI control model is compared and analyzed with the single-voltage loop control and the integer-order PI control model. The results show that the fractional-order PI-controlled Boost converter has a faster response and stronger anti-interference capability, which effectively improves the dynamic performance and static performance index of the DC-DC converter and provides a theoretical basis for the research of dual closed-loop control strategy of the DC-DC converter.
Mechanical optimization design and experimental analysis of mine tricone bit nozzle
Authors: Lei Ming , Peng Fang , Zheng Junyuan , Wu Ying , Wang Weihua , Kong Xiangrui , Qian Zhiliang
Published: May 2023

This paper explores the optimal design of cone bit nozzle diameter and a comparative analysis of cone tooth stress. When drilling the tricone bit, direct contact between the roller casing and the wellbore is prone to wear. The fluid emitted from the cone bit nozzle helps reduce friction and reduce temperature. In this paper, a three-dimensional model is established using the software, and then the surface shear stress of the cone bit under the action of the flow field is simulated. The larger the shear stress is, the more serious the wear is. The simulation results show that when the nozzle diameter is φ17mm, the maximum shear stress on the surface of the roller is 6640Pa. When the nozzle diameter is φ22mm, the maximum shear stress on the surface of the roller is 3040Pa, which is 50% lower than that of the nozzle diameter φ17mm. Through the analysis, improving the wear of the cone housing of the drill bit, the diameter of the nozzle of the 9SRA545R tricone bit is changed from φ17mm to φ22mm, which can effectively reduce the erosion degree of the rock debris on the surface of the cone, to improve the wear degree of the cone housing.
Research and improvement of SPS spark plasma sintering equipment
Authors: Chen Biyang , Peng Zhiguo , Tang Tengfei , Yue Gao , Zhang Weijia
Published: May 2023

Through the functional disassembly study of the pressurization system, vacuum and atmosphere control system, water cooling system and control system of the SPS spark plasma equipment, the problems in the actual production process and the corresponding improvements of the spark plasma sintering (SPS) equipment are also discussed. The shortcomings and its development directions are also proposed to provide sufficient data support for the subsequent research.
A dynamic failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) method for CNC machine tool in service
Authors: Jiang Shixin , Liu Zhenguo , Chen Jieyu
Published: May 2023

To solve the problems such as uncertain evaluation information, high dependence on experts, and no consideration of the degradation of machine operating performance to failure risk in the practical application of FMEA in CNC machine tool operation and maintenance, a dynamic failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) method for CNC machine tool in service is proposed, operation and maintenance data is introduced to the traditional failure risk analysis, which makes semantics criteria and data-driven method are systematically integrated, resulting in better performance of quantitative assessment and risk ranking of dynamic fault risk. Afterward, the fault classification and maintenance strategy of the CNC machine tool based on risk priority number (RPN) is proposed, which provides decision support for efficient operation and maintenance of the CNC machine tool. Finally, a machining center is taken as an example to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the method.
Study on the Transient Forced Vibration Characteristics of a Radial Turbine Impeller
Authors: Huang Zhi , Ma Chaochen
Published: May 2023

This work focuses on transient forced vibration response characteristics of a radial turbine passing through the resonant frequency at different speeds. The transient structure analysis based on the modal superposition method is used to calculate the vibration response of the impeller, and the frequency sweep tests are carried out to verify the calculation results. The experimental results are in good agreement with the simulation results. The impeller response curve becomes steeper as the frequency sweep time increases; however, the elastic potential energy of the blade is dissipated more by the structural damping at 13000 Hz. The response waveform of frequency sweep time 10s is close to the situation of 60s. When the frequency sweep takes the 60s, the excitation energy is input to the impeller, and the damping dissipation of the system reaches a state close to equilibrium.
Effect of pre-strain on microstructure and stamping ability of TA2 titanium alloy and H260 low-alloy steel
Authors: Liu Po , Wen Zhicheng , Wang Zhiguo , Liu Zheng
Published: May 2023

Applying pre-strain can not only change the microstructure and the mechanical property of metal material but also affect sheet metal stamping ability. In this paper, taking H260 low-alloy steel and TA2 titanium alloy as experimental materials, pre-strain ranging from 0 to 0.16 was applied using the one-step and the multi-step method respectively. Microstructure observation, tensile test, bending test, and cup bulging test were conducted on the pre-strained samples. Results show that in the pre-strain loading stage, the slipping and twinning deformation occurs in the TA2 alloy sample while dislocation sliding mainly happens in H260 low-alloy. With pre-strain increasing, the product of ultimate tensile strength and elongation rate gradually decreases, and the true ultimate tensile stress and accumulating elongation change rarely. The “product of yielding strength and elongation rate” can be enhanced by applying a pre-strain of 0.04 on the condition that plasticity is still at a high level. In the pre-strain range of 0 - 0.16, a bending test with a 30.8 °-opening angle can be completed on H260 steel. The springback angle changes from negative to positive with an increase in pre-strain. The bending ability of TA2 titanium alloy is very poor, for a crack can easily occur even in the original sample. The cupping value decreases gradually with an increase in pre-strain. The cupping value of TA2 titanium alloy is higher than that of H260 low alloy steel for the constant pre-strain. A quite large difference exists between the two experimental materials. Pre-strain loading pass has no significant effect on the microstructure evolution, mechanical properties, and stamping properties.
System integration of ATLAS ITK Pixel DCS ASICs
Authors: Qamesh A. , Ahmad R. , Ecker D. , Fischer T. , Karagounis M. , Kind P. , Kersten S. , Krawutschke T. , Schreiter L. , Zeitnitz C.
Published: May 2023

During the ATLAS phase II upgrade, the tracking system of the ATLAS experiment will be
replaced by an all-silicon detector called the inner tracker (ITK) with a pixel detector as the
most inner part. The monitoring data of the new system will be aggregated from an on-detector ASIC
called Monitoring Of Pixel System (MOPS) and sent to the Detector Control System (DCS) using a new
interface called MOPS-HUB. The hardware components of the MOPS-HUB, firmware specifications for
the FPGA of the MOPS-HUB and its integration plan will be presented. In
addition, an irradiation plan for the new system will be introduced.
An alternative SNR-based weighted-LSM algorithm to classify and measure the concentration of Biological Agents from Laser-Induced Fluorescence
Authors: Puleio A. , Martellucci L. , Rossi R. , Rutigliano N. , Wyss I. , Gaudio P.
Published: May 2023

Optical spectroscopic techniques, such as Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) or Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF), have already been used to study and detect Biological Agents (BAs). Unfortunately, BAs usually share similar-shaped emitted spectra and low-signal intensities, making their detection and classification difficult to assess.

Least-Square Minimisation (LSM) based algorithms are usually deployed to measure the concentration of agents from spectra. Recently, it has been shown how the use of ad hoc weights can help in improving the performance of the concentration evaluation. More specifically, it has been observed that the “weight matrix” should be modelled as a function of the boundary conditions of the problem.

This work proposes a new weight matrix that is based on the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) of the measurements. The idea is based on the fact that more noisy data are less reliable and therefore weight should be lowered.

The paper, after a brief introduction and review of the LSM applied to spectra, will show the new methodology. A systematic analysis of the new algorithm is done and the comparison with the other LSM algorithms is presented. The results clearly show that there is a range of parameters for which the new algorithm performs better.
Characterisation of N2-GEM: a beam monitor based on Ar-N2 gas mixture
Authors: Cancelli S. , Alimagno H. , Muraro A. , Perelli Cippo E. , Caruggi F. , Grosso G. , Gorini G. , Kushoro M.H. , Marcer G. , Putignano O. , Scionti J. , Tardocchi M. , Croci G.
Published: May 2023

The gas recycle is nowadays an important issue for gaseous detectors operation under study and for this reason, scientists are testing new gas systems for GEM detectors. Since some gas purifier does not allow to use oxygen, the standard Ar-CO2 (70%–30%) cannot be used; thus, new gas mixtures are under investigation. This paper presents the study of a triple GEM detector filled with new gas mixture based on Argon and Nitrogen (Ar-N2) at different concentrations: 90%–10%, 80%–20% and 70%–30%. The GEM detector characterisation has provided the High Voltage working point for the gas mixtures and a comparison between the Ar-CO2 and the Ar-N2.
Setting a reference for wetland carbon: the importance of accounting for hydrology, topography, and natural variability
Authors: Stewart Graham A , Kottkamp Anna I , Williams Michael R , Palmer Margaret A
Published: May 2023

Wetland soils are a key global sink for organic carbon (C) and a focal point for C management and accounting efforts. The ongoing push for wetland restoration presents an opportunity for climate mitigation, but C storage expectations are poorly defined due to a lack of reference information and an incomplete understanding of what drives natural variability among wetlands. We sought to address these shortcomings by (1) quantifying the range of variability in wetland soil organic C (SOC) stocks on a depressional landscape (Delmarva Peninsula, USA) and (2) investigating the role of hydrology and relative topography in explaining variability among wetlands. We found a high degree of variability within individual wetlands and among wetlands with similar vegetation and hydrogeomorphic characteristics. This suggests that uncertainty should be presented explicitly when inferring ecosystem processes from wetland types or land cover classes. Differences in hydrologic regimes, particularly the rate of water level recession, explained some of the variability among wetlands, but relationships between SOC stocks and some hydrologic metrics were eclipsed by factors associated with separate study sites. Relative topography accounted for a similar portion of SOC stock variability as hydrology, indicating that it could be an effective substitute in large-scale analyses. As wetlands worldwide are restored and focus increases on quantifying C benefits, the importance of appropriately defining and assessing reference systems is paramount. Our results highlight the current uncertainty in this process, but suggest that incorporating landscape heterogeneity and drivers of natural variability into reference information may improve how wetland restoration is implemented and evaluated.
Transparent flexible fluorescent films based on natural rubber composited with quantum dots for traffic equipment
Authors: Suntijitrungruang O , Pon-On W , Boonchui S
Published: May 2023

Quantum dots are one of the nanotechnology materials applied in various ways like flexible electronic devices and others. In this work, we study and synthesize semiconductor quantum dots (SQDs) to produce fluorescent natural rubber films by the technique called directed blending. We illustrate the appropriate ratio of mixtures employed in our method such as quantum dot colloidal solutions and natural latex as well as moles between each substance. During the process, the liquid composite and rubber adhesive is applied to the surface for creating flexible fluorescent films that can be dried at room temperature. In addition, these flexible fluorescent films can be covered with diverse curved surfaces applied probably as a traffic device like luminous traffic cones or traffic signs that glow at night. Based on the unique properties of our products, our research provides an application developed from quantum dot nanotechnology.
Preparation and Characterization of Novel Membrane from Waste Polyethylene terephthalate and Bio-based Polymer
Authors: Jareonsri L , Nawalertpanya S , Jantaporn W
Published: May 2023

A large amount of post-consumer Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle waste could be recycled for downstream products. In this work, used PET bottles were utilized as a raw material to develop environmentally-friendly ultrafiltration membranes by phase inversion technique. Poly(ethylene-2,5-furandicarboxylate) (PEF), prepared from a sustainable bio-based monomer, 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA), was blended into rPET matrix to improve the mechanical properties of the membrane. Ethanol was also used as a non-solvent in a coagulation bath and polyethylene glycol (PEG) with a molecular weight of 400 Da was added as a hydrophilic additive. The effects of PEF and PEG incorporation to waste PET-based membranes have been thoroughly studied. The morphology of obtained membrane was investigated using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The membrane’s permeation and resistance were tested using a pressure-driven dead-end membrane module. The result revealed that adding PEF increased the roughness of the membrane surface, which lowered the flux recovery ratio and rejection performance. However, the filtration performance and the membrane resistance could be improved by adjusting the content of the PEG additive.
Synthesis of Self-organic Assembly Monolayers to Improve the Stability of Perovskite Films
Authors: Phonglumjiakngam P , Pootrakulchote N
Published: May 2023

In recent years, photovoltaic devices based on perovskite materials have become one of the energy conversion field’s most in study topics. FAPbI3 stands out among a wide variety of perovskite structural materials with the advantages of a suitable band structure, long carrier diffusion distance, and so on. Unfortunately, the FAPbI3 perovskite films still lack some stability. It is well known that UV light and humidity strongly affect perovskite solar cell (PSC) performances, leading to the service life-time limitation of the device. Here, we propose strategies to improve the stability of PSCs by means of the interface engineering [1] between the electron transport layer and the perovskite active layer by inserting the self-organic assembled monolayers (SAMs). [2] The derivatives of Triethoxy(4-methoxyphenyl)silane (SAM1) and Triethoxy(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)silane (SAM2) were synthesized using Grignard reaction [3] then inserted between the electron transport layer and perovskite active layer of PSC test devices in order to improve the hydrophobicity of the cell. Preliminary results showed that the perovskite active layers that have been modified with SAMs appear denser than those without modification. The overall conversion efficiency and stability of the SAMs-modified PSC devices will be further tested to prove more stable than those of unmodified devices.
Mechanical properties of the laser powder deposition and laser powder bed fusion printed 316L
Authors: Hietala M , Rautio T , Mäkikangas J , Järvenpää A
Published: May 2023

Metal 3D printing technologies have made it possible to produce different parts, but the mechanical properties of the parts connected using different 3D printing technologies have not yet been sufficiently studied. In the study, 316L stainless steel was laser powder deposited (DED) with laser cladding head on the laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB) printed 316L and the joint was investigated experimentally. The microstructure of the joint was examined from the cross-sections of the joint by optical microscopy. The mechanical properties of the joint were evaluated by hardness measurements and tensile strength tests. The microstructure of the deposited structure was similar to the typical 316L printed structure, but at the joint, due to the higher heat input of the DED process, an increase in grain size was clearly visible. Based on the hardness measurements, the hardness profile of the joint was very even, and the average hardness was approximately 305 HV. The tensile strength of the PBF-LB and DED joint was 549 MPa which is approximately 11% lower than the tensile strength of PBF-LB printed 316L.
Incorporation of Rubber Waste to Fiber Cement Composite: Comparative Study of Rubber Tire Waste and Rubber Band Waste
Authors: Kajon S , Hancharoen K , Kamhangrittirong P , Suwanna P
Published: May 2023

This study compares the effects of rubber tire waste and rubber band waste on physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of cement composite for roofing application. The rubber particles, prepared from waste rubber tire (RT) and/or calcium carbonate filled rubber band (RB), were mixed with cement paste and tested for workability and flexural strength. It was found that RT yields higher workability than RB when mixed with the cement paste. The rubber-cement composites (CR) with the combination of RT and RB at the RT:RB volume fraction of 1.00:0.00 (CRT), 0.75:0.25 (CRT.75/B.25) and 0.50:0.50 (CRT.50/B.50) have sufficient workability and flexural strength. When mixing different rubber particles with oil palm fibers and the cement paste to obtain CFRT, CFRT.75/B.25, CFRT.50/B.50 rubber-fiber-cement composites, the composites with higher RT content have higher flexural strength, while those with higher RB content have lower thermal conductivity, implying better thermal insulation property. More importantly, all three types of rubber-fiber-cement composites yield excellent thermal insulation property, and meet the flexural strength required by the industrial standard for the fiber-cement roof tile sheets. The results suggest that the waste rubber-waste oil palm fiber-cement composites can be viable candidates for roofing application with promising potential for energy saving.
Considering Questions Before Methods in Dementia Research With Competing Events and Causal Goals
Authors: Rojas-Saunero L Paloma , Young Jessica G , Didelez Vanessa , Ikram M Arfan , Swanson Sonja A
Published: May 2023

Studying causal exposure effects on dementia is challenging when death is a competing event. Researchers often interpret death as a potential source of bias, although bias cannot be defined or assessed if the causal question is not explicitly specified. Here we discuss 2 possible notions of a causal effect on dementia risk: the “controlled direct effect” and the “total effect.” We provide definitions and discuss the “censoring” assumptions needed for identification in either case and their link to familiar statistical methods. We illustrate concepts in a hypothetical randomized trial on smoking cessation in late midlife, and emulate such a trial using observational data from the Rotterdam Study, the Netherlands, 1990–2015. We estimated a total effect of smoking cessation (compared with continued smoking) on 20-year dementia risk of 2.1 (95% confidence interval: −0.1, 4.2) percentage points and a controlled direct effect of smoking cessation on 20-year dementia risk had death been prevented of −2.7 (95% confidence interval: −6.1, 0.8) percentage points. Our study highlights how analyses corresponding to different causal questions can have different results, here with point estimates on opposite sides of the null. Having a clear causal question in view of the competing event and transparent and explicit assumptions are essential to interpreting results and potential bias.
Cannabidiol as a candidate pharmacotherapy for sleep disturbance in alcohol use disorder
Authors: Gendy Marie N S , Frey Benicio N , Van Ameringen Michael , Kuhathasan Nirushi , MacKillop James
Published: May 2023

Among individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD), it is estimated that the majority suffer from persistent sleep disturbances for which few candidate medications are available. Our aim wass to critically review the potential for cannabidiol (CBD) as a treatment for AUD-induced sleep disturbance. As context, notable side effects and abuse liability for existing medications for AUD-induced sleep disturbance reduce their clinical utility. CBD modulation of the endocannabinoid system and favorable safety profile have generated substantial interest in its potential therapeutic use for various medical conditions. A number of preclinical and clinical studies suggest promise for CBD in restoring the normal sleep–wake cycle and in enhancing sleep quality in patients diagnosed with AUD. Based on its pharmacology and the existing literature, albeit primarily preclinical and indirect, CBD is a credible candidate to address alcohol-induced sleep disturbance. Well-designed RCTs will be necessary to test its potential in managing this challenging feature of AUD.
Design and Application of a Novel Silicone Nasal Implant
Authors: Zhang Jianjun
Published: May 2023

Background

Traditional silicone implants used in augmentation rhinoplasty lead to postoperative complications.

Objectives

To introduce a novel silicone implant designed to reduce postoperative complications.

Methods

The author designed a novel modification for the traditional silicone nasal implant, which has a particle surface, vertical and horizontal grooves, and a special vertical board to support the nasal tip. A total of 114 consecutive clinical cases were retrospectively reviewed from September 2016 to November 2022, with a minimum of 36 months and an average 51 months of follow-up. All patients underwent augmentation rhinoplasty using this novel implant, with 97 (85.09%) patients using only the silicone and 17 (14.91%) the silicone implant with conchal cartilage. Surgical complications such as sliding down, redness, extrusion, deviation, translucency, capsular contracture, or infection were recorded.

Results

The median patient age was 28 (range, 18-55) years, with 109 female and 5 male patients. Among the 114 cases, 46 (40.35%) involved primary surgery and 68 (59.65%) involved revisional surgery. The overall complication rate was 4.39%, and 0.88% of the patients had slight redness, 0.88% had intermittent pain, and 2.63% had infections. No other complication was observed, and all complications occurred in revisional surgeries. A total of 109 patients (95.61%) showed satisfying results without any postoperative complication. None of the patients with primary surgery reported postoperative complications.

Conclusions

The novel silicone nasal implant can effectively reduce the rate of postoperative complications. Therefore, augmentation rhinoplasty using this implant enables a more natural-looking outcome.

Level of Evidence: 3
Computational approaches for circRNAs prediction andin silicocharacterization
Authors: Rebolledo Camilo , Silva Juan Pablo , Saavedra Nicolás , Maracaja-Coutinho Vinicius
Published: May 2023

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are single-stranded and covalently closed non-coding RNA molecules originated from RNA splicing. Their functions include regulatory potential over other RNA species, such as microRNAs, messenger RNAs and RNA binding proteins. For circRNA identification, several algorithms are available and can be classified in two major types: pseudo-reference-based and split-alignment-based approaches. In general, the data generated from circRNA transcriptome initiatives is deposited on public specific databases, which provide a large amount of information on different species and functional annotations. In this review, we describe the main computational resources for the identification and characterization of circRNAs, covering the algorithms and predictive tools to evaluate its potential role in a particular transcriptomics project, including the public repositories containing relevant data and information for circRNAs, recapitulating their characteristics, reliability and amount of data reported.
Sexual harassment disproportionately affects ecology and evolution graduate students with multiple marginalized identities in the United States
Authors: Wilkins Kate , Carroll Sarah L , Davis Kristin P , Hauptfeld Rina , Jones Megan S , Larson Courtney L , Laverty Theresa M , Pejchar Liba
Published: May 2023

Sexual harassment within academic institutions has profound impacts that may lead to the attrition of groups historically excluded from the biological sciences and related disciplines. To understand sexual harassment's effects on vulnerable communities within academia, we examined graduate student experiences with sexual harassment. In a survey of ecology and evolutionary biology programs across the United States, we found that 38% of the graduate student respondents were sexually harassed during their time in these programs. Sexual harassment disproportionately affected graduate students with multiple intersecting marginalized identities, and these experiences led to delays in completing graduate programs and shifts away from their desired careers. Our research highlights the need for academic institutions, and science more broadly, to make widespread changes to sexual harassment policies, including treating sexual harassment as scientific misconduct and creating resources for individuals within students’ informal support networks, in tandem with efforts to dismantle barriers to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
An interferon gamma response signature links myocardial aging and immunosenescence
Authors: Ashour DiyaaElDin , Rebs Sabine , Arampatzi Panagiota , Saliba Antoine-Emmanuel , Dudek Jan , Schulz Richard , Hofmann Ulrich , Frantz Stefan , Cochain Clément , Streckfuß-Bömeke Katrin , Campos Ramos Gustavo
Published: May 2023

Aims

Aging entails profound immunological transformations that can impact myocardial homeostasis and predispose to heart failure. However, preclinical research in the immune-cardiology field is mostly conducted in young healthy animals, which potentially weakens its translational relevance. Herein, we sought to investigate how the aging T-cell compartment associates with changes in myocardial cell biology in aged mice.

Methods and results

We phenotyped the antigen-experienced effector/memory T cells purified from heart-draining lymph nodes of 2-, 6-, 12-, and 18-month-old C57BL/6J mice using single-cell RNA/T cell receptor sequencing. Simultaneously, we profiled all non-cardiomyocyte cell subsets purified from 2- to 18-month-old hearts and integrated our data with publicly available cardiomyocyte single-cell sequencing datasets. Some of these findings were confirmed at the protein level by flow cytometry. With aging, the heart-draining lymph node and myocardial T cells underwent clonal expansion and exhibited an up-regulated pro-inflammatory transcription signature, marked by an increased interferon-γ (IFN-γ) production. In parallel, all major myocardial cell populations showed increased IFN-γ responsive signature with aging. In the aged cardiomyocytes, a stronger IFN-γ response signature was paralleled by the dampening of expression levels of transcripts related to most metabolic pathways, especially oxidative phosphorylation. Likewise, induced pluripotent stem cells-derived cardiomyocytes exposed to chronic, low grade IFN-γ treatment showed a similar inhibition of metabolic activity.

Conclusions

By investigating the paired age-related alterations in the T cells found in the heart and its draining lymph nodes, we provide evidence for increased myocardial IFN-γ signaling with age, which is associated with inflammatory and metabolic shifts typically seen in heart failure.
Mobile phone calls, genetic susceptibility, and new-onset hypertension: results from 212 046 UK Biobank participants
Authors: Ye Ziliang , Zhang Yanjun , Zhang Yuanyuan , Yang Sisi , Liu Mengyi , Wu Qimeng , Zhou Chun , He Panpan , Gan Xiaoqin , Qin Xianhui
Published: May 2023

Aims

The relationship between mobile phone use for making or receiving calls and hypertension risk remains uncertain. We aimed to examine the associations of mobile phone use for making or receiving calls and the use frequency with new-onset hypertension in the general population, using data from the UK Biobank.

Methods and results

A total of 212 046 participants without prior hypertension in the UK Biobank were included. Participants who have been using a mobile phone at least once per week to make or receive calls were defined as mobile phone users. The primary outcome was new-onset hypertension. During a median follow-up of 12.0 years, 13 984 participants developed new-onset hypertension. Compared with mobile phone non-users, a significantly higher risk of new-onset hypertension was found in mobile phone users [hazards ratio (HR), 1.07; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.12]. Among mobile phone users, compared with those with a weekly usage time of mobile phones for making or receiving calls <5 mins, significantly higher risks of new-onset hypertension were found in participants with a weekly usage time of 30–59 mins (HR, 1.08; 95%CI: 1.01–1.16), 1–3 h (HR, 1.13; 95%CI: 1.06–1.22), 4–6 h (HR, 1.16; 95%CI: 1.04–1.29), and >6 h (HR, 1.25; 95%CI: 1.13–1.39) (P for trend <0.001). Moreover, participants with both high genetic risks of hypertension and longer weekly usage time of mobile phones making or receiving calls had the highest risk of new-onset hypertension.

Conclusions

Mobile phone use for making or receiving calls was significantly associated with a higher risk of new-onset hypertension, especially among high-frequency users.
Trajectories of Physical Function and Behavioral, Psychological, and Social Well-Being in a Cohort of Swedish Older Adults
Authors: Saadeh Marguerita , Xia Xin , Verspoor Eline , Welmer Anna-Karin , Dekhtyar Serhiy , Vetrano Davide L , Fratiglioni Laura , Melis René J F , Calderón-Larrañaga Amaia
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives

Successful aging has been described as a multifactorial and dynamic process. The aims of the study were to detect aging trajectories of physical function and behavioral, psychological, and social well-being; and to explore the correlations between functional versus well-being trajectories by age group.

Research Design and Methods

Data were gathered from the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care in Kungsholmen (N = 1,375). Subjects’ physical function was assessed through walking speed and chair-stand tests, behavioral well-being through participation in mental and physical activities, psychological well-being through life satisfaction and positive affect, and social well-being through social connections and support. All exposures were standardized (z-scores). Linear mixed models were used to estimate trajectories of physical function and well-being over a 12-year follow-up.

Results

The steepest declines were seen for physical function (relative change [RC] in z-scores across ages; RC = 3.01), followed by behavioral well-being (RC = 2.15), psychological well-being (RC = 2.01), and social well-being (RC = 0.76). Correlations between physical function and the different well-being domains were weak, especially for slopes. Stronger intercept correlations were observed among the oldest—compared to the youngest-old, especially with behavioral (r = 0.39 vs r = 0.24) and psychological (r = 0.33 vs r = 0.22) well-being.

Discussion and Implications

Physical function declines the fastest throughout aging. The different well-being domains decline at a slower rate, which may be a possible sign of compensation against age-related functional decline, especially among the youngest-old, for whom discordances between physical function and the different well-being domains were more common.
Misinformation messages shared via WhatsApp in Mexico during the COVID-19 pandemic: an exploratory study
Authors: Wirtz Veronika J , Millán-Garduño Gabriel , Hegewisch-Taylor Jennifer , Dreser Anahi , Anaya-Sanchez Andrea , González-Vázquez Tonatiuh T , Escalera Ricardo , Torres-Pereda Pilar
Published: May 2023

Little is known about the role of WhatsApp in spreading misinformation during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico. The aim of this study is to analyze the message content, format, authorship, time trends and social media distribution channels of misinformation in WhatsApp messages in Mexico. From March 18 to June 30, 2020 the authors collected all WhatsApp messages received via their personal contacts and their social networks that contained information about COVID-19. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the scientifically inaccurate messages and the relationship between variables, respectively. Google image and video searches were carried out to identify sharing on other social media. Out of a total of 106 messages, the most frequently mentioned COVID-19 related message topics were prevention (20.0%), conspiracy (18.5%), therapy (15.4%) and origin of the virus (10.3%), changing throughout the pandemic according to users’ concerns. Half of all WhatsApp messages were either images or videos. WhatsApp images were also shared on Facebook (80%) and YouTube (~50%). Our findings indicate that the design of information and health promotion campaigns requires to be proactive in adapting to the changes in message content and format of misinformation shared through encrypted social media.
AACC Guidance Document on the Clinical Use of Procalcitonin
Authors: Chambliss Allison B , Patel Khushbu , Colón-Franco Jessica M , Hayden Joshua , Katz Sophie E , Minejima Emi , Woodworth Alison
Published: May 2023

Background

Procalcitonin (PCT), a peptide precursor of the hormone calcitonin, is a biomarker whose serum concentrations are elevated in response to systemic inflammation caused by bacterial infection and sepsis. Clinical adoption of PCT in the United States has only recently gained traction with an increasing number of Food and Drug Administration–approved assays and expanded indications for use. There is interest in the use of PCT as an outcomes predictor as well as an antibiotic stewardship tool. However, PCT has limitations in specificity, and conclusions surrounding its utility have been mixed. Further, there is a lack of consensus regarding appropriate timing of measurements and interpretation of results. There is also a lack of method harmonization for PCT assays, and questions remain regarding whether the same clinical decision points may be used across different methods.

Content

This guidance document aims to address key questions related to the use of PCT to manage adult, pediatric, and neonatal patients with suspected sepsis and/or bacterial infections, particularly respiratory infections. The document explores the evidence for PCT utility for antimicrobial therapy decisions and outcomes prediction. Additionally, the document discusses analytical and preanalytical considerations for PCT analysis and confounding factors that may affect the interpretation of PCT results.

While PCT has been studied widely in various clinical settings, there is considerable variability in study designs and study populations. Evidence to support the use of PCT to guide antibiotic cessation is compelling in the critically ill and in some lower respiratory tract infections but is lacking in other clinical scenarios, and evidence is also limited in the pediatric and neonatal populations. Interpretation of PCT results requires guidance from multidisciplinary care teams of clinicians, pharmacists, and clinical laboratorians.
181 Effect of Temperature and Humidity on Daily Feeding Behavior in Swine
Authors: Peppmeier Zack , Leonard Suzanne M , Knauer Mark
Published: May 2023

Heat stress has negative impacts on pork production, particularly during the grow-finish phase. During heat stress events, swine alter feeding behavior to reduce heat production, which can negatively affect performance. Recent technology advancements in feed management systems allow for individualized data recording of feeding behavior for group housed pigs during the finishing phase. The objective of this study was to utilize an RFID-based feed management system to determine feeding behavior patterns of finishing pigs during heat stress conditions and identify changes in behavior due to heat stress events. Data included one pen of 29 Duroc boars reared in a mechanically ventilated facility in north central North Carolina. Feed Intake Recording Equipment (FIRE) pig feeders (n = 3; Osborne Technologies) fed individual pigs in the group housed setting using RFID technology and recorded the number of visits, feed intake of each visit, visit duration, and body weight of each pig during each visit. Feeders were calibrated once per week to ensure accuracy of feed intake and body weight measurements. On day 1 of the study, pigs were placed in the experimental pen and body weights were recorded (37.4 kg ± 4.9 kg) using the FIRE feeders. Air temperature, humidity, and dew point data were collected continuously every 5 minutes from day 13 until the end of the finishing period. Pigs exited finishing (134.5 ± 8.6 kg) on day 83. Feeding behavior traits (number of visits and feed intake) were summarized by day. Temperature, humidity, and heat index were summarized by a maximum, minimum, and mean value for each day. Average temperature, humidity, feeder visits a day, and average daily feed intake across the trial was 26.3 ± 1.6 º C, 75.8 ± 6.7%, 6.1 ± 1.0 visits, 2.66 ± 0.39 kg. Models were used to associate feeding behavior traits with the quadratic effects of day and the linear effects of average temperature and humidity and the interaction of temperature and humidity. Temperature and humidity were associated (P < 0.01) number of feeder visits and average daily intake per day. Further, there was an interaction (P < 0.01) between temperature and humidity in relation to number of feeder visits and average daily feed intake. Results suggest substantial variation in feeding behaviors can be explained by temperature and humidity.
182 North Carolina Small Ruminant Improvement Program Workshops Build Producer Knowledge of Important Management Techniques
Authors: Rogers Johnny R , Weaver Andrew R , Cope Emily
Published: May 2023

Growing interest in small ruminant production, strong market demand, and producers’ minimal use of data-driven management practices led to the development of the North Carolina Small Ruminant Improvement Program (NCSRIP) in 2021. This program seeks to improve the number and quality of small ruminants produced in North Carolina as well as improve producer profitability. Three workshops were held to increase producer awareness of new small ruminant production practices and opportunities. All workshops included classroom and breakout sessions featuring hands-on activities. In February 2022, the Lambing and Kidding Workshop was held in cooperation with NC Sheep Producers Association at the North Carolina State Small Ruminant Educational Unit (Raleigh, NC). Topics included pre-lambing/kidding management, lambing and kidding diseases, the birthing process, dystocia management and lamb/kid processing. The Flock Management Workshop was held in May on a working sheep farm near Dobson, NC. Attendees learned about hay sampling and analysis, ration balancing, flock health management and cost share resources for small ruminant operations. In June, the NCSRIP joined with the Eastern Alliance for Production Katahdins to host a grazing school in Roxboro, NC. The agenda featured predator regulatory considerations, herding dog use, parasite management, genetic selection, soil health and pasture management. Workshop pre-registrations were 162 with 65 attending the events with 63 evaluations completed. Fifty-six percent of participants owned 1-50 breeding females. Twenty-seven percent of participants had no livestock but were gathering information for future endeavors. Fifty-seven percent of operations owned sheep, 13.0% raised goats, 7.4% produced cattle and 22.4% grazed combinations of all species. Fifty-seven percent of producers lived in the North Carolina Piedmont region while 14.3% resided in the Coastal region, 2.9% from the Mountain region and 25.7% from out of state. Post-workshop evaluations asked attendees to rank their increased understanding of each major agenda topic. On a scale of 1 to 5 (1 = no improvement to 5 = significant improvement), participants indicated they had improvement in all topics (mean = 4.18). When asked about participating in future NCSRIP events, producers suggested they would attend (mean = 4.62; 1 = will not participate to 5 = will attend if possible). When asked about what they like most about these workshops, attendees mentioned the hands-on approach and practical knowledge gained. Producer feedback indicates a growing interest in small ruminant production and a need for continued practical education programs.
14 Mitigation Strategies for Heifer Development on ‘KY-31’ Tall Fescue
Authors: Boone Madison L , Carrell Russell C , Fuller Rush , Dillard Leanne L
Published: May 2023

Tall fescue (Schedonorus arundinaceus) is the predominant cool-season perennial forage in the Eastern U.S. However, a symbiotic endophyte reduces performance of animals grazing tall fescue. This results in losses of around $2 billion annually. Due to the vasoconstriction caused by the endophyte, a decrease in conception rates among cows and heifers consuming tall fescue has been observed. With rising input costs, it is necessary to explore alternative mitigation strategies these production losses. The objective of this study was to mitigate the toxic effects of ‘KY 31’ tall fescue by limit-grazing cool-season annuals as an alternative to feed supplementation. In January 2022, 48 heifers [14 months of age; 365.9 ± 11.89 kg body weight (BW)] were randomly assigned to tall fescue only, tall fescue with supplemental feed at 1% of BW, tall fescue with limit grazing of cool-season annuals for 24 h per week, and cool-season annuals only. Four animals grazed in each of three replicated paddocks per treatment. Cool-season annual pasture was a mixture of crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum), annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum), and oat (Avena sativa). Body condition scores (BCS), hair coat scores (HCS), and BW were recorded every 30 d. Forage samples were taken for biomass, nutritive value, and ergovaline concentration every 30 d. On April 1, 2022, heifers were artificially inseminated (AI), and conception rates were determined 45 d after AI. Data were analyzed using the Glimmix procedure of SAS 9.4 (SAS Inst, Cary, NC) with α = 0.05. There were no differences among treatments in HCS at any weigh date (P > 0.05). The BCS for all treatments was less in February than January or March (5.6, 6.1, 6.1, respectively; P < 0.0001), but there were no differences among treatments at any sampling date (P > 0.05). Conception rates were not different among treatments (P > 0.10) but averaged 75, 67, 42, and 50% for the continuous-cool season, limit graze, supplemental feed, and tall fescue treatments, respectively. Crude protein (CP) concentrations for the control and limit grazing fescue treatments were greater than the limit grazing cool-season annual treatment, continuous grazing cool-season annual treatment, and the supplemental feed treatment (13.5, 10.7, 10.4, and 8.9%, respectively, (P < 0.012). Neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were different among the supplemental treatment when compared with the limit grazing fescue, limit grazing cool-season annual, control, and continuous cool-season annual (48.2 vs 64.7% NDF and 25.8 vs. 37.0% ADF; P < 0.0361). At this time, the results indicate that limit grazing cool-season annual forages may be an advantageous option to mitigate fescue toxicosis in replacement heifers grazing tall fescue pastures in the spring.
23 Comparison of Whole Cottonseed to a Traditional Supplement (20% Breeder Cubes) in Commercial Beef Cows: Impacts on Animal Performance, Metabolites, and Methane Emissions
Authors: Liuzzo Avianna A , Reuter Ryan R , Wilson Blake K
Published: May 2023

The objective was to compare whole cottonseed (WCS) with a more traditional supplement (20% breeder cube; BC) to determine the impacts on animal performance, metabolites, and methane emissions in beef cows. Cows (n = 24) were assigned to 1 of 2 experimental treatments (BC vs. WCS) based on age and body weight (BW). Supplements were fed individually at 0.9, 1.8, or 2.7 kg per day, resulting in 12 animals per supplement treatment and 4 animals per supplementation level within treatment. Two additional cows served as negative controls. Cows were fed 4 days per week, with supplementation levels being prorated at 1.6, 3.2, and 4.8 kg per feeding. Data collection occurred in 28-day intervals through d 84, with a final collection on d 99 after all cows finished calving. An amount fed per d × d interaction for BW change (P = 0.001) was detected. Cattle that were not supplemented (control) or received 0.9 kg per day lost more BW than cows that received 1.8 or 2.7 kg of supplement per day. There was a body condition score (BCS) change interaction for amount fed per d × d (P = 0.009). There was an amount fed per d × d interaction for back fat thickness (BFT; P = 0.02), and a tendency for an effect of amount fed per day on BFT (P = 0.07). There was a tendency for an amount fed per d × d interaction for fecal score (FS; P = 0.09) indicating that cattle receiving different amounts of supplement had varying trends in FS over time. A day effect was also observed for fecal score (P = 0.00003). There were no interactions (P ≥ 0.55), effect of treatment (P = 0.85), or effect of amount fed per d (P = 0.45) for fecal pH. A treatment × amount fed per d × d interaction for plasma glucose concentrations (P = 0.04) was detected. An amount fed per d × d interaction was detected for plasma lactate concentrations (P = 0.01) indicating that cattle receiving different amounts of supplement had different trends in lactate concentrations over time. An effect of amount fed per d on plasma lactate concentrations (P = 0.05) was also observed. A tendency for an amount fed per d × d interaction for plasma urea nitrogen (PUN; P = 0.06) was observed indicating that cattle receiving different amounts of supplement had varying trends in PUN over time. No treatment effect on methane emissions was observed between cows consuming BC and WCS (P = 0.68). This experiment suggests that the supplementation of BC or WCS had minimal impacts on performance, metabolites, or methane emissions, but some interactions existed between supplementation source or level and day.