bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Multivariable Branching: A 0-1 Knapsack Problem Case Study
Authors: Yang Yu , Boland Natashia , Savelsbergh Martin 
Published: February 2021

We explore the benefits of multivariable branching schemes for linear-programming-based branch-and-bound algorithms for the 0-1 knapsack problem—that is, the benefits of branching on sets of variables rather than on a single variable (the current default in integer-programming solvers). We present examples where multivariable branching has advantages over single-variable branching and partially characterize situations in which this happens. Chvátal shows that for a specific class of 0-1 knapsack instances, a linear-programming-based branch-and-bound algorithm (employing a single-variable branching scheme) must explore exponentially many nodes. We show that for this class of 0-1 knapsack instances, a linear-programming-based branch-and-bound algorithm employing an appropriately chosen multivariable branching scheme explores either three or seven nodes. Finally, we investigate the performance of various multivariable branching schemes for 0-1 knapsack instances computationally and demonstrate their potential; the multivariable branching schemes explored result in smaller search trees (some in search trees that are an order of magnitude smaller), and some also result in shorter solution times.Summary of Contribution: As a powerful modeling tool, mixed-integer programming (MIP) is ubiquitous in Operations Research and is usually solved via the branch-and-bound framework. However, solving MIPs is computationally challenging in general, where branching affects the performance of solvers dramatically. In this paper, we explore the benefits of branching on multiple variables, which can be viewed as a generalization of the standard single-variable branching. We analyze its theoretical behavior on a special instance introduced by Chvátal, which is proved to be hard for single-variable branching. We also partially characterize situations in which branching on multiple variables is superior to its single-variable counterpart. Lastly, we demonstrate its potential in reducing the overall computational time and possible memory usage for storing unexplored nodes through numerical experiments on 0-1 knapsack problems.
Research on the Beam Damage Diagnosis Method for a High-Speed Transplanter Based on the Strain Mode
Authors: Ji Jiangtao , Chen Kaikang , Jin Xin , Pang Jing , Chen Xing , Wang Zhaoyang , Fan Jingyuan 
Published: February 2021

Abstract. The vibration of agricultural machinery significantly influences driving comfort and operation reliability. In recent years, research on the vibrational characteristics of agricultural machinery has gradually expanded. To solve the problem of the obvious vibration of a high-speed transplanter under operating conditions, this article examines the method of beam damage diagnosis for high-speed transplanters based on the strain mode. Based on the modal theory, the displacement and strain modal analysis of the beam of the high-speed transplanter is performed. The analysis shows that the relative deviation of the modal frequencies of the same order before and after the beam is damaged is small. There is no obvious abrupt change in the displacement mode shape, while the strain mode shape has a sudden change peak after the beam is damaged. Thus, the strain mode change rate is constructed as a diagnostic index for beam damage. The analysis results show that the strain mode change rate increases with the increase in beam damage degree. Finally, the least squares method is used to fit the corresponding relationship between the two quantities. The results show that the strain mode change rate is sensitive and reliable as an index of damage diagnosis, which can better determine the location and degree of damage to the beam. Keywords: Beam, Damage, Diagnosis, Rice transplanter, Strain mode.
Development of a Wireless Sensor Network for Field Level Strawberry Disease Alert Systems
Authors: Onofre Thiago Borba , Fraisse Clyde W. , McNair Janise , Judge, Jasmeet , Zotarelli Lincoln , Peres Natalia A. 
Published: February 2021

HighlightsFungal diseases are considered a major challenge for strawberry farmers.Disease risk monitoring systems can be improved with increased spatial coverage of environmental conditions.Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) with customized nodes can efficiently collect site-specific data inputs for disease risk models.WSN providing disease risk levels with increased spatial and temporal resolution opens the opportunity for site-specific control actions.Abstract. The United States is the world’s largest producer of strawberries, harvesting over 680 million metric tons in 2017, valued at approximately $3.2 billion. Fungal diseases are considered a major challenge for strawberry farmers. Even in well-managed fields, losses from fungal diseases can exceed 50% when environmental conditions favor disease development. Anthracnose fruit rot (AFR), caused by Colletotrichum acutatum and Botrytis fruit rot (BFR), caused by Botrytis cinerea, are the most significant diseases monitored (or present) during strawberry production in Central Florida and worldwide. The Strawberry Advisory System (SAS) was developed by researchers at the University of Florida to alert strawberry growers of infection risk of AFR and BFR. SAS also recommends control actions when necessary. In Florida, the SAS uses leaf wetness duration and temperature observed at Florida Automated Weather Network (FAWN) stations and private weather stations to estimate strawberry disease risk. A good representation of local conditions is crucial, but unfortunately uncommon in modern fungal disease warning systems (FDWS), such as the SAS. In this study, we developed and deployed an in-field Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) with customized nodes (WetBerry). WetBerry is a distributed mesh network of wireless mini weather stations equipped with leaf wetness, temperature, and relative humidity sensors developed to monitor in-field environmental conditions related to the risk of fungal diseases in strawberry production. The WSN mini weather stations were installed and tested in a strawberry field during the 2017/2018 strawberry season, and the results were validated against a standard agrometeorological weather station. The WSN provided high spatial and temporal density of weather data for agricultural applications, thereby has the potential to improve the capabilities of site-specific fungal disease warning tools and control actions. Keywords: Decision making, Fungal disease, Leaf wetness, Precision agriculture, Site-specific, WSN.
An Open-Sourced Web Application for Aerial Applicators to Avoid Spray Drift Caused by Temperature Inversion
Authors: Huang Yanbo , Fisher D. K. 
Published: February 2021

HighlightsA web application for guiding data calculated from distributed weather data through open-source cloud service.A design scheme of portable weather stations built from inexpensive open-source electronics.Integration of open-source hardware and software for online guiding data to avoid drift caused by temperature inversion.Abstract. It is important for agricultural chemical applicators to follow proper spray procedures to prevent susceptible crops, animals, people, or other living organisms from being injured far downwind. Spraying during stable atmospheric conditions should be avoided to prevent surface-temperature inversion-induced off-target drift of crop protection materials. Previous statistical analysis determined times of high likelihood of stable atmospheric conditions, which are unfavorable for spraying, during the day under clear and cloudy conditions in hot summer months in the Mississippi Delta. Results validated the thresholds of temperature increase in the morning and temperature drop in the afternoon with wind speeds and the transition between stable and unstable atmospheric conditions. With this information, an algorithm was developed to calculate if atmospheric conditions were favorable for spraying based on field temperature and wind speed at any instant. With this algorithm, a web application was built to provide real-time determination of atmospheric stability and hourly online recommendation of whether aerial applications were appropriate for a location and time in the Mississippi Delta. This study further developed another web application specifically for Stoneville, Mississippi, with data measured from weather stations constructed from inexpensive open-source electronics, accessories, and software for more accurate online guidance for site-specific drift management. The web application is adapted for accessing on mobile terminals, such as smartphones and tablets, and provides timely guidance for aerial applicators and producers to avoid spray drift and air quality issues long distances downwind in the area. Keywords: Open-source hardware, Open-source software, Spray drift, Temperature inversion, Web application.
Evaluation of Low-Cost Optical Particle Counters for Agricultural Exposure Measurements
Authors: Olegario Justine M. , Regmi Swastika , Sousan Sinan 
Published: February 2021

HighlightsThe OPC-N3, developed by Alphasense, may be useful in measuring occupational exposure in agricultural settings based on the agreement with mass concentrations measured by gravimetrical filter analysis.The AirBeam2 is better suited for environmental exposure measurements rather than occupational measurements.Particle sizing by the GRIMM Mini-WRAS 1371 and the OPC-N3 show many aerosols that agricultural workers are exposed to follow a bimodal curve and are above 0.1 µm, thereby the respirator used as personal protective equipment is effective in filtering out aerosols in this occupation.Abstract. Prolonged exposure to dust has been shown to have adverse health effects in agricultural workers, primarily with the development of respiratory diseases. Low-cost sensors may be cost-effective tools for farmers to determine when they are exposed to harmful levels of dust during their workday. The purpose of this study was to identify low-cost sensors that may be reliably used in occupational settings to help workers and employers identify respirable particle matter exposure. The study utilized two different low-cost optical particle counters (OPCs) to collect data on dust exposure, which were worn on a belt by the participant: the OPC-N3 developed by Alphasense and the AirBeam2 developed by HabitatMap. Additionally, an AirChek TOUCH air sampling pump fit with a respirable dust aluminum cyclone allowed for the collection of respirable particulate matter (PM4) to determine the true concentration of exposure. Results show that the PM4 measurements made by the OPC-N3 are similar to the gravimetrical filter measurement at concentrations of &lt; 50 µg/m3. In addition, the data analysis suggests that the AirBeam2 may be significantly underestimating the amount of particulate matter that farmworkers are exposed to and therefore may not be suitable for occupational exposure measurements compared to the OPC-N3. Keywords: Aerosols, Agriculture, AirBeam2, Dust, Exposure, Low-cost, Occupational, Optical particle counter, OPC-N3.
Generating Nitrate and Nitrite on Green Oak Lettuce in Hydroponic Farming by Plasma System
Authors: Leksakul Komgrit , Vichiansan Norrapon , Kaewkham Pisit , Hattaphasu Boonprathan , Boonyawan Dheerawan 
Published: February 2021

HighlightsAbstract. In this study, we developed an effective methodology to determine the suitable plasma-based generating system of reactive nitrogen species (RNS) targeting hydroponic farming systems using a full factorial design with center points and blocking. A 2k with 2 blockings plus 2 center points design was employed in the experiment to develop an efficient analytical model for nitrogen solution concentration and hydroponic vegetable growth incorporating the plasma discharge system process parameters, including water flow rate, plasma discharge duration, and air flow rate. This study designed and constructed an air plasma discharge system with DC power supply. Thereafter, nitrogen solution was generated under a parameter conditions setting by the design of experiments (DOE) method. RNS solution, which contained nitrate (NO3-) and nitrite (NO2-) ions with P and K added, was passed through the hydroponic system for growing green oak lettuce. The most promising plasma-generated nitrogen solution parameters were obtained for this set up at a water flow rate of 6 L/min, discharge duration of 60 min, and activated air flow rate of 60 mL/min. Keywords: Nitrate, Nitrite, Plasma discharge, Reactive nitrogen species.
Breaking voltage–bandwidth limits in integrated lithium niobate modulators using micro-structured electrodes
Authors: Kharel Prashanta , Reimer Christian , Luke Kevin , He Lingyan , Zhang Mian 
Published: February 2021

Electro-optic modulators with low voltages and large bandwidths are crucial for both analog and digital communication. Recently, thin-film lithium niobate modulators have emerged as a strong candidate for next generation electro-optic solutions. These modulators offer significantly improved voltage–bandwidth performances over the existing bulk lithium niobate modulators while preserving key material advantages such as linear response, high extinction ratio, high optical power handling ability, and low optical losses. However, reduced electrode gaps in miniaturized thin-film modulators lead to higher microwave losses, which limit electro-optic performances at high frequencies. Here we overcome this limitation to achieve a record combination of low RF half-wave voltage (

V
π

) of 1.3 V while maintaining electro-optic response with 1.8 dB roll-off at 50 GHz using micro-structured electrodes. Our demonstration represents a significant improvement in voltage–bandwidth performance, one that is comparable to the performance gain in switching from legacy bulk to thin-film lithium niobate modulators. Such a micro-structured electrode design could enable sub-volt modulators with

>

100

G
H
z

bandwidth.
Carbogen inhalation during non-convulsive status epilepticus: A quantitative exploratory analysis of EEG recordings
Authors: Ramaraju S. , Reichert S. , Wang Y. , Forsyth R. , Taylor P. N. 
Published: February 2021

Objective
To quantify the effect of inhaled 5% carbon-dioxide/95% oxygen on EEG recordings from patients in non-convulsive status epilepticus (NCSE).

Methods
Five children of mixed aetiology in NCSE were given high flow of inhaled carbogen (5% carbon dioxide/95% oxygen) using a face mask for maximum 120s. EEG was recorded concurrently in all patients. The effects of inhaled carbogen on patient EEG recordings were investigated using band-power, functional connectivity and graph theory measures. Carbogen effect was quantified by measuring effect size (Cohen’s d) between “before”, “during” and “after” carbogen delivery states.

Results
Carbogen’s apparent effect on EEG band-power and network metrics across all patients for “before-during” and “before-after” inhalation comparisons was inconsistent across the five patients.

Conclusion
The changes in different measures suggest a potentially non-homogeneous effect of carbogen on the patients’ EEG. Different aetiology and duration of the inhalation may underlie these non-homogeneous effects. Tuning the carbogen parameters (such as ratio between CO2 and O2, duration of inhalation) on a personalised basis may improve seizure suppression in future.
Mental health and psychosocial support strategies in highly contagious emerging disease outbreaks of substantial public concern: A systematic scoping review
Authors: Kunzler Angela M. , Stoffers-Winterling Jutta , Stoll Marlene , Mancini Alexander L. , Lehmann Sophie , Blessin Manpreet , Gilan Donya , Helmreich Isabella , Hufert Frank , Lieb Klaus 
Published: February 2021

Background
Acute disease outbreaks such as the COVID-19 pandemic cause a high burden of psychological distress in people worldwide. Interventions to enable people to better cope with such distress should be based on the best available evidence. We therefore performed a scoping review to systematically identify and summarize the available literature of interventions that target the distress of people in the face of highly contagious disease outbreaks.

Methods
MEDLINE, Cochrane CENTRAL, Web of Science (January 2000 to May 7, 2020), and reference lists were systematically searched and screened by two independent reviewers. Quantitative and qualitative studies investigating the effects of psychological interventions before, during, and after outbreaks of highly contagious emerging infectious diseases, such as SARS, MERS, Ebola, or COVID-19 were included. Study effects were grouped (e.g. for healthcare professionals, community members, people at risk) and intervention contents at the individual and organizational level summarized. We assessed the level of evidence using a modified scheme from the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine and the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council.

Results
Of 4030 records found, 19 studies were included (two RCTs). Most interventions were delivered during-exposure and face-to-face, focused on healthcare workers and crisis personnel, and combined psychoeducation with training of coping strategies. Based on two high-quality studies, beneficial effects were reported for resilience factors (e.g. positive cognitive appraisal) and professional attitudes of healthcare workers, with mixed findings for mental health (e.g. depression). Across all studies, there was positive qualitative feedback from participants and facilitators. We identified seven ongoing studies mostly using online- and mobile-based deliveries.

Conclusions
There is preliminary evidence for beneficial effects of interventions to enable people to better cope with the distress of highly contagious emerging disease outbreaks. Besides the need for more high-quality studies, the summarized evidence may inform decision makers to plan interventions during the current pandemic and to develop pandemic preparedness plans.
Relapse and post-discharge body composition of children treated for acute malnutrition using a simplified, combined protocol: A nested cohort from the ComPAS RCT
Authors: Lelijveld Natasha , Musyoki Eunice , Adongo Susan Were , Mayberry Amy , Wells Jonathan C. , Opondo Charles , Kerac Marko , Bailey Jeanette 
Published: February 2021

Introduction
Severe and moderate acute malnutrition (SAM and MAM) affect more than 50 million children worldwide yet 80% of these children do not access care. The Combined Protocol for Acute Malnutrition Study (ComPAS) trial assessed the effectiveness of a simplified, combined SAM/MAM protocol for children aged 6–59 months and found non-inferior recovery compared to standard care. To further inform policy, this study assessed post-discharge outcomes of children treated with this novel protocol in Kenya.

Methods
Six ‘combined’ protocol clinics treated SAM and MAM children using an optimised mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC)-based dose of ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF). Six ‘standard care’ clinics treated SAM with weight-based RUTF rations; MAM with ready-to-use supplementary food (RUSF). Four months post-discharge, we assessed anthropometry, recent history of illness, and body composition by bioelectrical impedance analysis. Data was analysed using multivariable linear regression, adjusted for age, sex and allowing for clustering by clinic.

Results
We sampled 850 children (median age 18 months, IQR 15–23); 44% of the original trial sample in Kenya. Children treated with the combined protocol had similar anthropometry, fat-free mass, fat mass, skinfold thickness z-scores, and frequency of common illnesses 4 months post-discharge compared the standard protocol. Mean subscapular skinfold z-scores were close to the global norm (standard care: 0.24; combined 0.27). There was no significant difference in odds of relapse between protocols (SAM, 3% vs 3%, OR = 1.0 p = 0.75; MAM, 10% vs 12%, OR = 0.90 p = 0.34).

Conclusions
Despite the lower dosage of RUTF for most SAM children in the combined protocol, their anthropometry and relapse rates at 4 months post-discharge were similar to standard care. MAM children treated with RUTF had similar body composition to those treated with RUSF and neither group exhibited excess adiposity. These results add further evidence that a combined protocol is as effective as standard care with no evidence of adverse effects post-discharge. A simplified, combined approach could treat more children, stretch existing resources further, and contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal Two.
Biallelic loss-of-function in NRAP is a cause of recessive dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Koskenvuo Juha W. , Saarinen Inka , Ahonen Saija , Tommiska Johanna , Weckström Sini , Seppälä Eija H. , Tuupanen Sari , Kangas-Kontio Tiia , Schleit Jennifer , Heliö Krista , Hathaway Julie , Gummesson Anders , Dahlberg Pia , Ojala Tiina H. , Vepsäläinen Ville , Kytölä Ville , Muona Mikko , Sistonen Johanna , Salmenperä Pertteli , Gentile Massimiliano , Paananen Jussi , Myllykangas Samuel , Alastalo Tero-Pekka , Heliö Tiina 
Published: February 2021

Background
Familial dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is typically a monogenic disorder with dominant inheritance. Although over 40 genes have been linked to DCM, more than half of the patients undergoing comprehensive genetic testing are left without molecular diagnosis. Recently, biallelic protein-truncating variants (PTVs) in the nebulin-related anchoring protein gene (NRAP) were identified in a few patients with sporadic DCM.

Methods and results
We determined the frequency of rare NRAP variants in a cohort of DCM patients and control patients to further evaluate role of this gene in cardiomyopathies. A retrospective analysis of our internal variant database consisting of 31,639 individuals who underwent genetic testing (either panel or direct exome sequencing) was performed. The DCM group included 577 patients with either a confirmed or suspected DCM diagnosis. A control cohort of 31,062 individuals, including 25,912 individuals with non-cardiac (control group) and 5,150 with non-DCM cardiac indications (Non-DCM cardiac group). Biallelic (n = 6) or two (n = 5) NRAP variants (two PTVs or PTV+missense) were identified in 11 unrelated probands with DCM (1.9%) but none of the controls. None of the 11 probands had an alternative molecular diagnosis. Family member testing supports co-segregation. Biallelic or potentially biallelic NRAP variants were enriched in DCM vs. controls (OR 1052, p<0.0001). Based on the frequency of NRAP PTVs in the gnomAD reference population, and predicting full penetrance, biallelic NRAP variants could explain 0.25%-2.46% of all DCM cases.

Conclusion
Loss-of-function in NRAP is a cause for autosomal recessive dilated cardiomyopathy, supporting its inclusion in comprehensive genetic testing.