Detailed Assessment Research Articles

Techno-economic analysis of solar, wind and biomass hybrid renewable energy systems in Bhorha village, India

The present study investigates the potential use of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems (Solar photovoltaic, wind, biomass, and diesel), both with and without the inclusion of battery/supercapacitor storage in the Bhorha village, Bihar, India. A comprehensive assessment of different possible system configurations is conducted using hybrid optimization model for electric renewable (HOMER) software to determine the most economically viable and efficient system for the designated place. The current analysis is focused on six distinct cases in the village community, in view of sufficing the daily energy requirement of 615.625 kWh and a peak demand of 86.47 kW, pertaining to major factors viz. system efficiency, financial viability, and ecological consequences. The primary aim of the research is to elucidate the comparative analysis of energy generation for different proposed designs of hybrid renewable energy systems. Detailed techno-commercial assessments are also carried out to examine the energy production, consumption, and financial impacts of each HRES configuration. The research outcome of this study obtained from HOMER software reveals that the optimized hybrid system comprises 86.7 kW solar photovoltaic, 30 kW wind turbine, 5 kW biogas generator, a 50 kW diesel generator, 280 kWh battery bank with nominal capacity, and 38.8 kW converter to sustain the for energy needs of the nominated place. This system has a minimum cost of energy of 0.309 $/kWh with a net present cost of $854894 along with operating cost 51847 $/year and net carbon dioxide emission of 56728 kg/yr. The research offers useful insights for designers, scholars, and policymakers on the existing design constraints and policies of biomass-based hybrid systems for a safe, sustainable and independent green future for the generations to come.

Heavy Metal Rejection Performance and Mechanical Performance of Cellulose-Nanofibril-Reinforced Cellulose Acetate Membranes.

In this research, cellulose acetate (CA) and CA nanocomposite membranes, reinforced with mass fractions of cellulose nanofibrils (CNF), are prepared using the phase separation technique. The membranes are extensively characterized using several techniques: Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirms the chemical structures, while Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) reveals their surface morphology. Mechanical characterization is conducted to explore the mechanical behavior of the membranes under wet and dry conditions through tensile testing. The mechanical properties of CA and CA-CNF membranes are also estimated using the Mori-Tanaka mean-field homogenization method and compared to experimental findings. The flux performance for pure and dam water, assessed at 3 bar, demonstrates that CNF reinforcement notably enhances the CA membrane's performance, particularly in flux rate and fouling resistance. The CA membrane shows high efficiency in removing Fe2+, Ba2+, and Al3+ from dam water, while CA-CNF membranes exhibit a varied range of removal efficiencies for the same ions, with the 0.5 wt % CNF variant showing superior resistance to surface fouling. Additionally, while CNF increases tensile strength and stiffness, it leads to earlier failure under smaller deformations, especially at higher concentrations. This research provides a detailed assessment of CA and CA-CNF membranes, examining their chemical, structural, and mechanical properties alongside their effectiveness in water treatment applications.

A Comprehensive Study of Techno Economic Viability (TEV) Report of Various Projects

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the TEV process, focusing on its application to both greenfield and brownfield projects across various sectors, including manufacturing, infrastructure, energy, and services. The study aims to guide decision-makers by bridging technical assessments with financial analysis to establish project profitability and sustainability. A Techno-Economic Viability (TEV) Study serves as a crucial tool in the decision- making process for both lenders and investors. It offers a detailed assessment of a project's technical feasibility, economic viability, and overall sustainability. It delves into the dual aspects of technical feasibility and economic viability, emphasizing their roles in influencing investment decisions across a wide spectrum of industries, including manufacturing, infrastructure, energy, and services. The findings from this research also illustrate real-world applications, highlighting two case studies with an emphasis on key financial indicators such as the Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR), which are used to measure a project’s ability to meet debt obligations and generate profits. Keywords: Techno Economic Study, Financial Viability, Technical Feasibility, Financial Modelling, Risk Analysis, Investment Decision

Comparative analysis of nasal endoscopic and radiological findings in chronic rhinosinusitis patients

Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a complex inflammatory disorder causing significant reduction in quality of life and interfere in day to day activity. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management, typically involving nasal endoscopy and CT imaging to assess the extent of sinus involvement. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at Jaipur national university institute of medical sciences and research centre from July 2022 to May 2024. It included 75 patients diagnosed with CRS. Subjective quantification of disease was done using SNOT-22 scoring system. Diagnostic evaluations were performed using nasal endoscopy and CT scans, with findings scored according to the Lund-Kennedy and Lund-MacKay systems. Results: The study highlighted a strong correlation between endoscopic and CT findings, with Pearson correlation coefficients of 0.892 and 0.909 for endoscopic vs. SNOT-22 scores and CT vs. SNOT-22 scores, respectively. Discrepancies between the two diagnostic tools were also noted, emphasizing their complementary roles in CRS management. Conclusions: Integrating nasal endoscopy and CT imaging provides a robust framework for diagnosing and managing CRS, allowing for a detailed assessment of both mucosal and anatomical changes. The combined use of these tools enhances the ability to tailor treatment plans effectively.

Assessing the impact of fetal-type posterior cerebral artery variations on cerebral hemodynamics

The circle of Willis (CoW) is a critical, arterial structure that ensures balanced, cerebral-blood supply. The fetal-type posterior cerebral artery (f-PCA) is a CoW variant that can significantly affect hemodynamics and elevate the risk of cerebrovascular diseases. This study used computational fluid dynamics simulations and a patient-specific, three-dimensional model to evaluate the hemodynamic effects of the f-PCA variants on cerebral-blood flow and key hemodynamic indices—such as time-averaged wall-shear stress (TAWSS), oscillatory shear index (OSI), pulsatility index, and resistive index. The fetal ratio (FR) is defined as the ratio of the diameter of the posterior communicating artery (PCoA) to that of the first segment (P1) of the PCA. Our findings indicate that as the FR increases, the contribution of the basilar artery to the second segment (P2) of PCA decreases significantly. Specifically, the flow rate through ipsilateral P1 decreased by 40.0% for FR = 1 and 70.9% for FR = 2, with the internal carotid artery (ICA) compensating for this reduction. Moreover, variations in f-PCA led to significant increases in TAWSS and OSI in key arterial segments (including the ipsilateral P1, PCoA, and the anterior communicating artery), which are associated with a higher risk of aneurysm initiation and growth. Under conditions of unilateral stenosis in the ipsilateral ICA, f-PCA models exhibit a more complex and pronounced impact on blood flow than models without f-PCA, emphasizing the need for detailed hemodynamic assessments in clinical evaluations and preoperative planning to mitigate the risks associated with CoW anatomical variations.

Coronary Plaque Radiomic Phenotypes Predict Fatal or Nonfatal Myocardial Infarction: Analysis of the SCOT-HEART Trial

BackgroundCoronary computed tomography (CT) angiography–derived attenuation-based plaque burden assessments can identify patients at risk of myocardial infarction. ObjectivesThis study sought to assess whether more detailed plaque morphology assessment using patient-based radiomic characterization could further enhance the identification of patients at risk of myocardial infarction during long-term follow-up. MethodsPost hoc analysis of coronary CT angiography was performed within the SCOT-HEART (Scottish Computed Tomography of the HEART) clinical trial. Coronary plaque segmentations were used to calculate plaque burdens and eigen radiomic features that described plaque morphology. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate the association between clinical and image-based features and fatal or nonfatal myocardial infarction, whereas Harrell’s C-statistic and cumulative/dynamic area under the curve (AUC) values with cross-validation were used to evaluate prognostic performance. ResultsScans from 1,750 patients (aged 58 ± 9 years; 56% male) were analyzed. Over a median of 8.6 years of follow-up, 82 patients had a fatal or nonfatal myocardial infarction. Among the eigen radiomic features, 15 were associated with myocardial infarction in univariable analysis, and 8 features retained their association following adjustment for cardiovascular risk score and plaque burden metrics. Adding plaque burden metrics to a clinical model incorporating cardiovascular risk score, Agatston score and presence of obstructive coronary artery disease had similar prediction performance (C-statistic 0.70 vs 0.70), whereas further addition of eigen radiomic features improved model performance (C-statistic 0.74). In temporal analysis, the model including eigen radiomic features had higher cumulative/dynamic AUC values following the fifth year of follow-up. ConclusionsRadiomics-based precision phenotyping of coronary plaque morphology provided improvements to long-term prediction of myocardial infarction by CT angiography over and above clinical factors and plaque burden. (Scottish Computed Tomography of the HEART [SCOT-HEART]; NCT01149590)

Composition Study for Obtaining Medium-Light Mortars by Using Spent Mushroom Substrate

Abstract Besides other lignocellulose waste resulting from agriculture, spent mushroom substrate is a major concern due to the high amount of waste, usually improper disposed. Also, sand-based mortars require the use of this non-renewable and exhaustive aggregate and problems of environment protection arise. The study aims to analyze the possibilities of sand replacement in mortars composition with grounded substrate. The ratio between cement and sand in the studied compositions was 1:1, 1:2, and 1:4. The hardened mortars are analyzed in terms of colorimetric changes, density decrease, mechanical strength, hydrophobic properties, and freeze-frost resistance. Thus, medium-light mortars for applications that requires moderate strengths, with ecological implications results when up to 15% of sand is replaced with spent mushroom substrate. The results can be used for a deepen research, considering also a detailed life cycle assessment of the waste and, secondly, combining the replacement material with other waste types.

Advances and Challenges in Scoring Functions for RNA–Protein Complex Structure Prediction

RNA–protein complexes play a crucial role in cellular functions, providing insights into cellular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. However, experimental determination of these complex structures is often time-consuming and resource-intensive, and it rarely yields high-resolution data. Many computational approaches have been developed to predict RNA–protein complex structures in recent years. Despite these advances, achieving accurate and high-resolution predictions remains a formidable challenge, primarily due to the limitations inherent in current RNA–protein scoring functions. These scoring functions are critical tools for evaluating and interpreting RNA–protein interactions. This review comprehensively explores the latest advancements in scoring functions for RNA–protein docking, delving into the fundamental principles underlying various approaches, including coarse-grained knowledge-based, all-atom knowledge-based, and machine-learning-based methods. We critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of existing scoring functions, providing a detailed performance assessment. Considering the significant progress demonstrated by machine learning techniques, we discuss emerging trends and propose future research directions to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of scoring functions in RNA–protein complex prediction. We aim to inspire the development of more sophisticated and reliable computational tools in this rapidly evolving field.

Study of malnutrition in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Background Although the interest in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) has increased in recent years due to the appearance of new therapies however the interest has focused on pulmonary involvement with little concern for systemic manifestations such as the nutritional status abnormalities. Thus, our study assessed the malnutrition prevalence in patients with IPF and the best indicators for the assessment of malnutrition among them. Patients and methods This work was conducted on 110 stable IPF patients who attended the outpatient clinic of Ain Shams University Hospitals from October 2020 to July 2021. Data about the detailed history and nutritional assessment was collected. Results 22.7% and 20.9% were malnourished according to the definition of fat-free mass index (FFMI) and body mass index (BMI), respectively. Most malnourished patients according to low FFMI were female; not using PPI was a significant independent predictors of malnutrition. There was a statistically significant relation between low FFMI and low serum albumin, hemoglobin, and oxygen saturation. Our findings also revealed that measuring BMI and being less than or equal to 22.1 kg/m2 and mid-arm circumference (MAC) less than or equal 28.5 cm is significantly related to low free fat mass index (malnutrition) and increases that risk by 31.63 folds. Conclusion Nearly one-quarter of IPF patients were malnourished and it was found that measuring BMI less than or equal to 22.1 kg/m2 together with MAC less than or equal to 28.5 cm can predict low FFMI and that can be used in our clinical approach.

The health status assessment method and practice of emergency diesel generator system in nuclear power plant based on deterioration degree

Abstract Due to the complexity of the emergency diesel generator (EDG) system in nuclear power plants and the lack of detailed equipment-level health status assessment models, this article introduces a deterioration-based system health status assessment method. Taking the large and complex EDG system as a pilot, the method combines monitoring data and maintenance information of the EDG to achieve dynamic assessment of the health status of the EDG system at the equipment level. This provides guidance for predicting and repairing faults of EDGs in nuclear power plants. Additionally, this method can be extended to other large and complex systems.

V2CTx MXene-derived porphyrin-based MOF modified with ZIF-67 as an ultra-stretchable and deformable double-network hydrogel for room temperature detection of dimethylamine

Stretchable and self-adhesive chemical sensors are highly appealing for wearable applications in health and environmental monitoring. Here, for the first time, we report V2CTx MXene-derived Porphyrin-based MOF (V-PMOF) modified with Zeolite imidazole framework-67 (ZIF) for the room temperature detection of dimethylamine. V-PMOF is synthesized from V2CTx MXene using tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin (TCPP) as a ligand via a solvothermal route. Thereafter, an optimized wt% ratio (1:1) of ZIF-67 and V-PMOF crosslinked by PVA/polypyrrole (Ppy) is put for lyophilisation which yields the V-PMOF@ZIF-67 double-network (DN) hydrogel. Detailed morphological assessment reveals dodecahedron shaped ZIF-67 particles are evenly distributed on the V-PMOF sheets which are encapsulated in the polymer matrix. This three-dimensional polymeric structure of hydrogel largely enhances the active sites on the surface with abundant oxygen vacancies. The sensor exhibits a dynamic range of 1 ppm to 13 ppm with a low limit of detection (LOD = 3 s/σ) of 902 ppb towards dimethylamine detection. Further, quick response/recovery times (3 s/7s) are observed along with high robustness tosignificant mechanical deformation, including twist (270°), large-range bending, and upto 500 % strain without affecting the sensing performance. The remarkable sensitivity is accredited to the abundance of O2 functional groups in polymer chains and the formation of schottky heterojunction between V-PMOF and ZIF-67, facilitating charge transfer from the heterostructure to dimethylamine during sensing. In addition, the self-adhesive hydrogel based sensor shows outstanding selectivity against other typical volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such acetone, ethanol, ammonia, trimethylamine, aniline, and methanol. In overall, this work provides insight into designing extremely flexible sensitive dimethylamine gas sensor as innovative material.

Assessing the Effects of Habitat Loss and Deterioration on a Red Squirrel Translocation Site: Insights for Future Conservation Management.

Translocations, a conservation tool used to conserve and restore dwindling species, are often associated with high failure rates. Inadequate long-term monitoring of both populations and their introduction sites beyond the initial years post-translocation creates a gap in our understanding of the factors that determine translocation success or failure, resulting in less informed projects in the future. This lack of long-term monitoring is partly caused by the absence of a well-defined framework by which the success of the translocation can be measured, leading to premature and sometimes inaccurate assessments of their outcome. We investigated the long-term outcome of a red squirrel translocation in the west of Ireland, specifically assessing the habitat changes in the translocation site since the introduction in 2005, and their impact on the capacity of the forest to sustain a population of a given size. Using digitised historical map data, we showed that the translocation site experienced a 53% reduction in suitable habitat. Additionally, there was a 41%-81% reduction in the total number of red squirrels the forest could support, according to feeding survey data. Clear-felling, a forest fire and a shift in tree species composition collectively contributed to this decline in site suitability. This investigation underscores the complexity of translocation projects and emphasises the pivotal role of habitat quality in their outcomes. We advocate for detailed habitat assessments during the planning phase, avoidance of unstable habitats as translocation sites, and the implementation of long-term monitoring practices.

Factors related to high caregiver burden of wives of patients with alcohol dependence syndrome: A case-control study from Eastern India

ABSTRACT Background: The caregiver burden in psychiatric illness is profound. However, the burden on spouses of patients with ADS remains a quest for medical research. The present study was done to assess the caregiver (wives) burden in a group of patients suffering from ADS as compared with that of schizophrenia. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted in the psychiatric ward. A detailed comparative assessment was done between the caregiver burden and quality of life of wives whose spouses were diagnosed with schizophrenia and alcohol dependence syndrome. Result: The average burden perceived by spouses in schizophrenia was 77.69% ±1.51 across all domains as compared with spouses of an alcohol group (78.39 ± 1.69). Factors related to high burden and low quality of life among wives of the alcoholic group were found to be residing in rural areas, living in nuclear families, critical in-laws and noncooperative family members, severely abused, and having two or more children. Discussion: The caregiver burden in the spouse of a male ADS is comparable with the burden of the spouse of schizophrenia. Spouses (wives) of addicts need more appreciation and support from the other family members mostly in-laws.

Impact of Telemedicine Versus In-Person Pediatric Outpatient Type 1 Diabetes Visits on Immediate Glycemic Control: Retrospective Chart Review.

Children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes require frequent outpatient evaluation to assess glucose trends, modify insulin doses, and screen for comorbidities. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) provides a detailed glycemic control assessment. Telemedicine has been increasingly used since the COVID-19 pandemic. To investigate CGM profile parameter improvement immediately following pediatric outpatient diabetes visits and determine if visit modality impacted these metrics, completion of screening laboratory tests, or diabetic emergency occurrence. A dual-center retrospective review of medical records assessed the CGM metrics time in range and glucose management indicator for pediatric outpatient diabetes visits during 2021. Baseline values were compared with those at 2 and 4 weeks post visit. Rates of completion of screening laboratory tests and diabetic emergencies following visits were determined. A total of 269 outpatient visits (41.2% telemedicine) were included. Mean time in range increased by 1.63% and 1.35% at 2 and 4 weeks post visit (P=.003 and .01, respectively). Mean glucose management indicator decreased by 0.07% and 0.06% at 2 and 4 weeks post visit (P=.003 and .02, respectively). These improvements in time in range and glucose management indicator were seen across both telemedicine visits and in-person visits without a significant difference. However, patients seen in person were 2.69 times more likely to complete screening laboratory tests (P=.03). Diabetic emergencies occurred too infrequently to analyze. Our findings demonstrate an immediate improvement in CGM metrics following outpatient visits, regardless of modality. While statistically significant, the magnitude of these changes was small; hence, multiple visits over time would be required to achieve clinically relevant improvement. However, completion of screening laboratory tests was found to be more likely after visits occurring in person. Therefore, we suggest a hybrid approach that allows patient convenience with telemedicine but also incorporates periodic in-person assessment.

Enhancing Preoperative Diagnosis of Subscapular Muscle Injuries with Shoulder MRI-based Multimodal Radiomics

PurposeRotator cuff injury is a common ailment in the musculoskeletal system, with the subscapularis muscle being the largest and most robust muscle of the rotator cuff. The occurrence of subscapularis muscle tears is more frequent than previously reported. The main objective of this research is to harness the power of artificial intelligence to enhance the precision in diagnosing subscapularis muscle injuries via magnetic resonance imaging of the shoulder joint, prior to surgical intervention. This study seeks to integrate advanced artificial intelligence algorithms to analyze magnetic resonance imaging data, aiming to provide more accurate preoperative assessments, which can potentially lead to better surgical outcomes and patient care and promote technological progress in the field of medical imaging analysis. MethodThis is a multicenter study that involves 324 patients from a major medical center serving as both the training and testing groups, with an additional 60 patients from two other medical centers comprising the verifying group. The imaging protocol for all these subjects included a series of shoulder magnetic resonance imaging scans: T1-weighted coronal sequences, T2-weighted coronal, axial, and sagittal images. These comprehensive imaging modalities were utilized to thoroughly examine the shoulder joint's anatomical details and to detect any signs of subscapularis muscle damage. To enhance the diagnostic accuracy before surgical procedures, radiomic analysis was employed. This technique involves the extraction of a multitude of quantitative features from the magnetic resonance imaging, which can provide a more nuanced and data-driven approach to identifying subscapularis muscle injuries. The integration of radiomics in this study aims to offer a more precise preoperative assessment, potentially leading to improved surgical planning and patient outcomes. ResultIn the course of this study, a comprehensive extraction of 1197 radiomic features was performed for each imaging modality of every patient. The coronal T1-weighted modality, when assessed within the internal verifying cohort, delivered a diagnostic accuracy of 0.766, coupled with an AUC of 0.803. In the case of the T2-weighted modality, the coronal planes exhibited a diagnostic accuracy of 0.781 and an AUC of 0.844. The axial T2-weighted images recorded an accuracy of 0.719 and an AUC of 0.761, while the sagittal T2-weighted images scored an accuracy of 0.766 and an AUC of 0.821. The amalgamation of these imaging techniques through a multimodal strategy markedly enhanced the accuracy to 0.828, with an AUC of 0.916 for the internal verifying group. The diagnostic performance of the coronal T1-weighted modality in the external verifying cohort yielded an accuracy of 0.833, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.819. For the T2-weighted modality, the coronal imaging demonstrated an accuracy of 0.767 and an AUC of 0.794. The axial T2-weighted images had an accuracy of 0.783 and an AUC of 0.797, while the sagittal T2-weighted images achieved an accuracy of 0.833 and an AUC of 0.800. When combining the modalities, the multimodal approach significantly improved the accuracy to 0.867, with an AUC of 0.803 in the external verifying group, indicating a robust diagnostic capability. ConclusionOur study demonstrates that the application of multimodal radiomic techniques to shoulder magnetic resonance imaging significantly enhances the precision of preoperative diagnosis for subscapularis muscle injuries. This approach leverages the comprehensive data provided by various magnetic resonance imaging modalities to offer a more detailed and accurate assessment, which is crucial for surgical planning and patient care.

Statistical models and implant customization in hip arthroplasty: Seeking patient satisfaction through design

ObjectivesThis study conducts a systematic literature review to explore the role of statistical models and methods in the design of orthopedic implants, with a specific focus on hip arthroplasty. Through a comprehensive analysis of the scientific literature, it aims to understand the relevance and applicability of these models in implant development and research trends in the field of design. MethodsData analysis and co-occurrence mapping techniques were employed to investigate the statistical models used as predictors of satisfaction in hip arthroplasty and in implant design. This approach facilitated a detailed and objective assessment of existing literature, revealing key trends and identifying gaps in current knowledge. Key findingsThe review's findings underscore a burgeoning interest in implant customization, with a significant emphasis on leveraging statistical techniques for optimal design. The logistic model methodology was applied to analyze a survey of hip surgery specialists, revealing that the physician's age does not influence the decision to use a customized implant. Furthermore, the review highlighted a knowledge gap at the intersection of statistics and design discipline concerning implant customization. SignificanceDespite the recognized importance of customization in implant design, there remains a dearth of contributions from the design discipline perspective in the existing literature, indicating substantial room for improvement and the need for interdisciplinary integration. ConclusionThe integration of statistical methods in implant design is crucial, emphasizing the need for multidisciplinary approaches and customization to enhance patient satisfaction. This study provides a foundation for future research that could transform the field of hip arthroplasty through more personalized and effective solutions.

Ecological Effects of the Huge Invasive Species Removal Project in Coastal China.

Saltmarsh wetlands are recognized as some of the most ecologically valuable yet vulnerable ecosystems globally. However, since the 1970s, saltmarsh wetlands in coastal China have been seriously threatened by the invasive Spartina alterniflora. Although the Chinese government has initiated a nationwide S.alterniflora removal project, the potential benefits and risks of this project remain unknown. Here, we focus on the Yangtze River Estuary Saltmarsh Wetland (YRESW) and simulate its future ecosystem structure, function, and quality under three scenarios based on remote sensing and field investigation data. The simulation scenarios include the absence of a removal project, natural regeneration postproject (NRP), and planted restoration postproject. The results show that the removal project will reverse the escalating invasion trend of S.alterniflora in the YRESW. Compared to the baseline year of 2022, there is a remarkable increase in ecosystem structure (composition: +107%, configuration: +27%) and ecosystem quality (+10.5%) under the NRP scenario. Although blue carbon storage sharply decreases under both scenarios involving project implementation, planted restoration can restore YRESW's carbon sequestration capacity to 0.19 Tg C per year, achieving 87% of the carbon storage present before the project. This study underscores the necessity of comprehensive and detailed risk assessments in ecological projects, particularly when dominant species are involved. Our findings hold significant implications for stabilizing coastal wetland ecosystems and promoting sustainable development in coastal areas.

TRANSITIONING FROM AN INSTITUTIONALLY DEFINED CANDIDATE SEARCH TO THE ANALYTIC HIERARCHY PROCESS: IMPROVING FACULTY SELECTION

This article presents a comprehensive model using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) for faculty search and selection at a regional university. After developing and applying evaluation criteria based on generalized position descriptions, the search committee chose to revise the criteria using the AHP. The revision allowed for more detailed and relevant assessments of candidate competencies and experience. While full implementation of the AHP was time-constrained, outcomes revealed greater consensus regarding preferred qualifications and presented a clearly defined rationale to support recommendations. In the decision-making process, the main criteria included degree, teaching, student engagement, research, service, experience, and diversity. Some of the main criteria had associated detailed sub-criteria. Although the AHP is typically used early in the faculty selection process, in this specific scenario, the initial elimination of candidates from the pool was made simpler by clearly defining the required qualifications and then closely evaluating the preferred qualifications. This article aims to assist higher education institutions in prioritizing and ranking their selection criteria, which have been found to be similar across different institutions.

Investigating the impacts of different degrees of deficit irrigation and nitrogen interactions on assimilate translocation, yield, and resource use efficiencies in winter wheat

Water and nitrogen (N) are recognized as the primary determinants influencing the development and output of winter wheat. They affect the growth of winter wheat not only through their own changes, but also through their interaction. The translocation and accumulation of pre- and post-anthesis assimilates (including dry matter and N) are important physiological processes in winter wheat, which are closely related to the resource use efficiency and yield. However, a dearth of research exists that examines the complex interplay between varying water levels, especially severe water deficit, and N deficiency levels on the growth dynamics of winter wheat. The purpose of this study was to quantify and compare the effects of different degrees of water deficit and N interaction on assimilate translocation, water and N use efficiency and yield of winter wheat. A four-year long-term field experiment conducted under the rain-out shelter including four irrigation and two N levels was launched during 2019–2023. This method avoided the impact of precipitation on water treatment and helped to achieve serious water deficit treatment. The findings indicated that the higher N application improved the wheat's ability by 49.6 % - 362.3 % to utilize the available soil water. The pre- and post-anthesis translocation and accumulation of assimilates (including dry matter and N) in winter wheat increase alongside elevated levels of water and N application, except under severe water deficit treatment. Plants under mild to moderate water deficit were better able to translocate the pre-anthesis assimilates. However, the severe water deficit hindered the re-translocation of assimilates before anthesis. Providing additional N during periods of severe water scarcity leads to a 13.4 % - 44.7 % reduction in water use efficiency (WUE). Furthermore, both the irrigation water use efficiency and WUE diminished by 10.3 % - 60.5 % and 4.5 % - 41.4 % with higher levels of irrigation, while improved by 24.4 % - 48.2 % and 12.6 % - 39.4 % with higher N application rates. Conversely, N partial factor productivity and N use efficiency followed the opposite trend. Similar to WUE, increasing N application under severe water deficit would result in a yield reduction of 38.7 %. The reduction in crop yield resulting from severe water stress was primarily ascribed to the decline in the kernels number per spike (up to 74.9 %), with the reduction in spike number per unit area following closely behind (up to 29.1 %). This integrated approach, combining resource use efficiency with a detailed assessment of assimilate dynamics, provides a holistic view of how water and N management strategies impact winter wheat performance. The findings will offer precise insights for developing targeted irrigation and N scheduling strategies for sustaining both winter wheat production and environmental sustainability.

Impact of Indoor Air Pollutants on the Cardiovascular Health Outcomes of Older Adults: Systematic Review.

Indoor air pollution accounts for approximately 3.8 million inopportune deaths annually at global level. Due to spending more time indoors, children and older adults are especially susceptible to the health risks of indoor air pollution. This review seeks to summarise existing knowledge on the cardiovascular health effects of three common indoor air pollutants, namely carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), and Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), focusing on older adults. We systematically reviewed the literature (PROSPERO CRD42024479220) on PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science and Embase. The search yielded 20,914 records. Two independent reviewers screened the articles using titles, abstracts, and full-length articles written in English. Upon a detailed assessment of all the records, the review considered 38 full-length articles. Several studies reported mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, increased hospitalisation and increased emergency room visits due to exposure to indoor air pollution. A few studies reported arrhythmias, hypertension and Ischaemic heart disease due to exposure to indoor air pollutants. The increased mortality, morbidity, hospitalization, and emergency rooms visits resulting from indoor air pollution associated CVDs makes indoor air pollution a health risk for older adults. There is, therefore, a need to synthesize information on studies relate d to how the selected indoor air pollutants affected the cardiovascular health of older adults.