bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Microstructure and Interfacial Reactions of Diffusion Bonding of Ni-Ti6Al4V Materials Joined by Using Ag Interlayer
Authors: Çetinkaya Şükrü , Kejanli Haluk
Published: September 2024

Due to its super plasticity, low weight, and high mechanical resistance properties, generally, Ti6Al4V is used for aeronautical applications. However, it has low resistance to plastic shearing. In addition, it has poor wear resistance. For these reasons, a lot of techniques have been developed to improve its wear resistance. Investigations of microstructure and interfacial reactions of diffusion bonding of Ni and Ti6Al4V materials have been performed experimentally. Ni samples were prepared with 50 ± 5 µm Ni powders in cylindrical shape. For diffusion bonding, Ag foil was used for improving the interlayer and connection quality. Nickel and its alloys can be joined by using some different processes, and the use of an interlayer can further facilitate the joining process and improve the joint quality. The experiments were carried out under the protected atmosphere. Argon gas was used for protection. The experiments were performed under 5 MPa pressure for 60 min duration at 850 °C, 900 °C, and 950 °C thermal conditions. Investigations of metallurgical structure occurring in the interface areas were examined by optic analysis of EDS, SEM, and X-ray. The strength of the joints was tested by lap-shear tests. From observations, the best quality of the coalescence at interfaces was indicated at elevated temperatures.
Evaluation of the Influence of the Tool Set Overhang on the Tool Wear and Surface Quality in the Process of Finish Turning of the Inconel 718 Alloy
Authors: Smak Krzysztof , Szablewski Piotr , Legutko Stanisław , Petru Jana , Kratochwil Jiri , Wencel Sylwia
Published: September 2024

The work deals with the influence of the reach of the applied tool holder on the edge wear, dimensional accuracy and surface quality defined by the topography as well as the roughness of the machined surface. The research has been conducted on specimens made of Inconel 718 in the configuration of sleeves, within the scope of finish turning with constant cutting parameters, vc = 85 m/min; f = 0.14 mm/rev; ap = 0.2 mm. The material under machining has undergone heat treatment procedures such as solution treatment and precipitation hardening, resulting in a hardness of 45 ± 2 HRC. Two kinds of turning holders have been used with the reaches of 120 mm and 700 mm. The tools are intended for turning external and internal surfaces, respectively. The tests have been conducted using V-shaped cutting inserts manufactured by different producers, made of fine-grained carbide with coatings applied by the PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) and CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition) methods. The edge wear has been evaluated. The value of the achieved diameter dimensions has also been assessed in relation to the set ones, as well as the recorded values of surface roughness and the surface topography parameters have also been assessed. It has been determined that the quality of the manufactured surface evaluated by the 2D and 3D roughness parameters, as well as the dimensional quality are influenced by the kind of the applied tool holder. The influence is also visible considering the edge wear. The smallest values of the deviations from the nominal dimensions have been obtained for the coated inserts of the range of higher abrasion resistance (taking into account information from the producers). The obtained results show that in predicting the dimensional accuracy in the process of turning Inconel 718 alloy with long-overhang tools, one should consider the necessity of correction of the tool path. Taking into account the achieved surface roughness, it should be pointed out that not only the kind of the tool coating but also the character of its wear has a great influence, particularly, when a long cutting distance is required.
Graph Convolutional Networks for Predicting Cancer Outcomes and Stage: A Focus on cGAS-STING Pathway Activation
Authors: Sokač Mateo , Skračić Borna , Kučak Danijel , Mršić Leo
Published: September 2024

The study presented in this paper evaluated gene expression profiles from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). To reduce complexity, we focused on genes in the cGAS–STING pathway, crucial for cytosolic DNA detection and immune response. The study analyzes three clinical variables: disease-specific survival (DSS), overall survival (OS), and tumor stage. To effectively utilize the high-dimensional gene expression data, we needed to find a way to project these data meaningfully. Since gene pathways can be represented as graphs, a novel method of presenting genomics data using graph data structure was employed, rather than the conventional tabular format. To leverage the gene expression data represented as graphs, we utilized a graph convolutional network (GCN) machine learning model in conjunction with the genetic algorithm optimization technique. This allowed for obtaining an optimal graph representation topology and capturing important activations within the pathway for each use case, enabling a more insightful analysis of the cGAS–STING pathway and its activations across different cancer types and clinical variables. To tackle the problem of unexplainable AI, graph visualization alongside the integrated gradients method was employed to explain the GCN model’s decision-making process, identifying key nodes (genes) in the cGAS–STING pathway. This approach revealed distinct molecular mechanisms, enhancing interpretability. This study demonstrates the potential of GCNs combined with explainable AI to analyze gene expression, providing insights into cancer progression. Further research with more data is needed to validate these findings.
A Novel Underwater Wireless Optical Communication Optical Receiver Decision Unit Strategy Based on a Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: El Ramley Intesar F. , Bedaiwi Nada M. , Al-Hadeethi Yas , Barasheed Abeer Z. , Al-Zhrani Saleha , Chen Mingguang
Published: September 2024

Underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) systems face challenges due to the significant temporal dispersion caused by the combined effects of scattering, absorption, refractive index variations, optical turbulence, and bio-optical properties. This collective impairment leads to signal distortion and degrades the optical receiver’s bit error rate (BER). Optimising the receiver filter and equaliser design is crucial to enhance receiver performance. However, having an optimal design may not be sufficient to ensure that the receiver decision unit can estimate BER quickly and accurately. This study introduces a novel BER estimation strategy based on a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) to improve the accuracy and speed of BER estimation performed by the decision unit’s computational processor compared to traditional methods. Our new CNN algorithm utilises the eye diagram (ED) image processing technique. Despite the incomplete definition of the UWOC channel impulse response (CIR), the CNN model is trained to address the nonlinearity of seawater channels under varying noise conditions and increase the reliability of a given UWOC system. The results demonstrate that our CNN-based BER estimation strategy accurately predicts the corresponding signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and enables reliable BER estimation.
Next-Generation Diagnostics: The Impact of Synthetic Data Generation on the Detection of Breast Cancer from Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Rai Hari Mohan , Dashkevych Serhii , Yoo Joon
Published: September 2024

Breast cancer is one of the most lethal and widespread diseases affecting women worldwide. As a result, it is necessary to diagnose breast cancer accurately and efficiently utilizing the most cost-effective and widely used methods. In this research, we demonstrated that synthetically created high-quality ultrasound data outperformed conventional augmentation strategies for efficiently diagnosing breast cancer using deep learning. We trained a deep-learning model using the EfficientNet-B7 architecture and a large dataset of 3186 ultrasound images acquired from multiple publicly available sources, as well as 10,000 synthetically generated images using generative adversarial networks (StyleGAN3). The model was trained using five-fold cross-validation techniques and validated using four metrics: accuracy, recall, precision, and the F1 score measure. The results showed that integrating synthetically produced data into the training set increased the classification accuracy from 88.72% to 92.01% based on the F1 score, demonstrating the power of generative models to expand and improve the quality of training datasets in medical-imaging applications. This demonstrated that training the model using a larger set of data comprising synthetic images significantly improved its performance by more than 3% over the genuine dataset with common augmentation. Various data augmentation procedures were also investigated to improve the training set’s diversity and representativeness. This research emphasizes the relevance of using modern artificial intelligence and machine-learning technologies in medical imaging by providing an effective strategy for categorizing ultrasound images, which may lead to increased diagnostic accuracy and optimal treatment options. The proposed techniques are highly promising and have strong potential for future clinical application in the diagnosis of breast cancer.
A Unified Version of Weighted Weak-Type Inequalities for the One-Sided Hardy–Littlewood Maximal Function in Orlicz Classes
Authors: Zhang Erxin
Published: September 2024

Let Mg+f be the one-sided Hardy–Littlewood maximal function, φ1 be a nonnegative and nondecreasing function on [0,∞), γ be a positive and nondecreasing function defined on [0,∞); let φ2 be a quasi-convex function and u,v,w be three weight functions. In this paper, we present necessary and sufficient conditions on weight functions (u,v,w) such that the inequality φ1(λ)∫{Mg+f>λ}u(x)g(x)dx≤C∫−∞+∞φ2(C|f(x)|v(x)γ(λ))w(x)g(x)dx holds. Then, we unify the weak and extra-weak-type one-sided Hardy–Littlewood maximal inequalities in the above inequality.
Some Equations in Rings Involving Semiprime Ideals and Multiplicative Generalized Semiderivations
Authors: Hummdi Ali Yahya , Gölbaşı Öznur , Sögütcü Emine Koç , Rehman Nadeem ur
Published: September 2024

This paper examines the commutativity of the quotient ring F/Y by utilizing specific differential identities in a general ring F that contains a semiprime ideal Y. This study particularly focuses on the role of a multiplicative generalized semiderivation ψ, which is associated with a map θ, in determining the commutative nature of the quotient ring.
Layout Reconstruction Optimization Method of Oil-Gathering Systems for Oilfields in the Mid to Late Stage of Development Based on the Arithmetic–Fireworks Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Chen Shuangqing , Wang Shanlong , Jiang Minghu , Li Yuchun , Meng Lan , Guan Bing , Yu Ze
Published: September 2024

The problems of uneven load and low operating efficiency in the oil-gathering system of old oilfields lead to higher operating costs. In order to reduce operating costs, the layout-reconfiguration optimization model is established, and the minimum comprehensive investment is taken as the objective function. The multi-constraint conditions, such as the current situation of the oil-gathering system, the processing capacity, the possibility of pipeline failure, and the obstacles, are considered. The hybrid arithmetic–fireworks optimization algorithm (AFOA) is proposed to solve the model. Combined with the experience of the hybrid metaheuristic algorithm, using hybrid metaheuristics, the hybrid of the arithmetic optimization algorithm (AOA) and the operator of the fireworks algorithm (FWA) is considered, and some improved operators of FWA are integrated into AOA to form a new algorithm (AFOA) to achieve a better solution effect. Compared with the 11 other algorithms, AFOA has better solution efficiency. This method is applied to the actual case of an old oilfield. The optimized scheme increases the average load rate of the station by 15.9% and reduces the operating costs by 38.1% per year. Overall, the reconstruction costs will be recovered in a short period.
How Is Bone Regeneration Influenced by Polymer Membranes? Insight into the Histological and Radiological Point of View in the Literature
Authors: Papuc Alexandra , Bran Simion , Moldovan Marioara , Lucaciu Ondine , Armencea Gabriel , Baciut Grigore , Dinu Cristian , Onișor Florin , Kretschmer Winfried , Baciut Mihaela
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study was to analyze published works that investigate the in vivo bone regeneration capacity of polymeric membranes loaded with active substances and growth factors. This scoping review’s purpose was to highlight the histological and radiological interpretation of the locally produced effects of the polymer membranes studied so far. For the selection of the articles, a search was made in the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases, according to the PRISMA algorithm, for research/clinical trial type studies. The search strategy was represented by the formula “((biodegradable scaffolds AND critical bone defect) OR (polymers AND mechanical properties) OR (3Dmaterials AND cytotoxicity) AND bone tissue regeneration)” for the PubMed database and “((biodegradable scaffolds AND polymers) OR (polymers AND critical bone defects) OR (biodegradable scaffolds AND mechanical properties) AND bone tissue regeneration)” for the ScienceDirect database. Ethical approval was not required. Eligibility criteria included eight clinical studies published between 2018 and 2023. Our analysis showed that polymer membranes that met most histopathological criteria also produced the most remarkable results observed radiologically. The top effective scaffolds were those containing active macromolecules released conditionally and staged. The PLGA and polycaprolactone scaffolds were found in this category; they granted a marked increase in bone density and improvement of osteoinduction. But, regardless of the membrane composition, all membranes implanted in created bone defects induced an inflammatory response in the first phase.
Theoretical and Experimental Investigation on a Novel Cavitation-Assisted Abrasive Flow Polishing Method
Authors: Wang Jiayu , Dong Xiaoxing , Zhu Lijun , Zhou Zhenfeng
Published: September 2024

A novel polishing method is proposed to increase material removal rates through the acceleration of abrasive movements using micro-jets formed by spontaneous collapses of bubbles due to the cavitation in a special-shaped Venturi tube. The Venturi structure is optimized by numerical simulations. Process-related parameters for the optimal cavitation ratio are investigated for achieving maximum adaptation to polishing flat workpieces. Furthermore, this novel approach enhances processing efficiency by approximately 60% compared to traditional abrasive flow polishing. The processing method that employs cavitation bubbles within a special-shaped Venturi tube to augment the flow of abrasive particles holds significant potential for material polishing applications.
Preparation of Nickel–Iron Concentrate from Low-Grade Laterite Nickel Ore by Solid-State Metalized Reduction and Magnetic Separation
Authors: Wang Wei , Hu Sichun , Wang Shoujing , Liu Hongzhao , Yu Deshui , Liu Lin , Wang Hongliang , Wang Ke
Published: September 2024

In this paper, the process of solid-state metalized reduction and magnetic separation was investigated for preparation of nickel–iron concentrate from a low-grade laterite nickel ore. The effects of reduction temperature, reduction time, amount of dosages, and magnetic field strength on grades and recoveries of nickel and iron were studied. The results showed that nickel–iron concentrate with a nickel grade of 7.32%, nickel recovery of 81.84%, iron grade of 78.74%, and iron recovery of 69.78% were obtained under the conditions of a reduction temperature of 1200 °C, reduction time of 120 min, calcium fluoride addition of 12%, ferric oxide addition of 10%, coal addition of 12%, and magnetic field strength of 170 kA/m.
About the Origin of Carbonado
Authors: Afanasiev Valentin , Kovalevsky Vladimir , Yelisseyev Alexander , Mashkovtsev Rudolf , Gromilov Sergey , Ugapeva Sargylana , Barabash Ekaterina , Ivanova Oksana , Pavlushin Anton
Published: September 2024

Carbonado is a specific variety of diamonds, typical representatives of which are distributed in the diamond placers of Central Africa, Brazil, and Venezuela. Carbonado consists of the microcrystalline aggregates of diamonds, with inclusions of mineral matter. These aggregates appear as fragments that are rounded to varying degrees. Carbonado has been known for a long time, but its primary sources have not been found and its genesis remains unclear. We have substantiated the hypothesis that the most probable precursor of carbonado is shungite. Shungite is a specific form of non-crystalline, non-graphitic, fullerene-like carbon. Shungite rocks, currently known in Karelia (Russia), are natural microdispersed composite materials containing shungite—carbonaceous matter and mineral components of different compositions. The content of carbonaceous matter in shungite rocks is from less than 10% to 98%. The carbon isotopic composition of shungite is light ẟ13C from −25‰ to −40‰. The age of shungite rock is more than 2 billion years old, but earlier shungite was probably much more widespread. Known shungite rocks are more than 2 billion years old, but earlier shungite was probably much more widespread. Shungite rocks could recrystallize into diamond rock upon subduction to high pressure and temperature. The diamond rocks could then be exhumed to the Earth’s surface, where they could undergo disruption and reworking with formation of those very fragments that are known as “carbonado”.
The Yanshanian Uranium Mineralization Age and Its Geological Significance in the Dashigou Carbonatite-Type Mo-REE-U Deposit, East Qinling Orogen, China
Authors: Huang Guangwen , Wu Dehai , Li Furong , Pan Chunrong , Fan Pengfei , Min Zhuang
Published: September 2024

The Dashigou deposit is one of the most representative carbonatite-type Mo-REE deposits in the East Qinling metallogenic belt of China, with a molybdenum resource of more than 180 kt and a rare earth resource of 37.8 kt. Recent exploration has revealed a considerable scale of uranium mineralization within this deposit. Therefore, this study conducted detailed mineralogical and EPMA U-Th-Pb chemical dating on the uranium mineralization in the Dashigou deposit. The results indicate that the U-ore body in the Dashigou deposit mainly consists in carbonatite veins, and principally as anhedral, mesh-like uraninite. The mineral assemblage is characterized by uraninite + rutile + bastnasite + parisite or brannerite. The uraninite displays geochemical compositions of high Y and Ce and low Si, Ti, and Mg. The EPMA U-Th-Pb chemical dating is 144 ± 3.1 Ma, representing the Yanshanian uranium mineralization age in the region. The newly discovered uranium mineralization age indicates that the deposit experienced a uranium remobilization event during the Cretaceous and was formed in an intracontinental orogenic and extensional environment post-collision orogeny.
Structural and Magnetic Properties of Dimeric Capsule Assemblies Formed by Cyclic Trinuclear Complexes
Authors: Muto Masahiro , Morinaga Kousuke , Nishihashi Momoko , Yamada Yasunori , Koikawa Masayuki
Published: September 2024

Cyclic trinuclear homo-metal complexes, [{Fe(L3+2Br)py}3] (1) and [{Mn(L3+2Br)}3(py)2 MeOH] (2), along with a hetero-metal complex, [FeMn2(L3+2H)3(DMF)3] (3), were synthesized using asymmetric ditopic ligands (H3L3+2H: 2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-6-ol-5-(salicylideneamino)benzoxazole, H3L3+2Br: 2-(2-hydrox-5-bromoyphenyl)-6-ol-5-(5-bromosalicylideneamino)benzoxazole). The molecular structure of 1 is characterized by a tripod structure with three-fold symmetry, where an enantiomer pair forms a dimeric capsule with dimensions of approximately 3 × 1.6 × 1.6 nm3. Complexes 2 and 3, which lack three-fold symmetry, exhibit similar molecular structures to previously reported complexes with these ligands, but do not form a capsule structure. Magnetic measurements of 1–3 reveal the presence of significantly weak antiferromagnetic interactions between the metal ions.
Plant-Based Products Originating from Serbia That Affect P-glycoprotein Activity
Authors: Dinić Jelena , Podolski-Renić Ana , Novaković Miroslav , Li Liang , Opsenica Igor , Pešić Milica
Published: September 2024

Our review paper evaluates the impact of plant-based products, primarily derived from plants from Serbia, on P-glycoprotein (P-gp) activity and their potential in modulating drug resistance in cancer therapy. We focus on the role and regulation of P-gp in cellular physiology and its significance in addressing multidrug resistance in cancer therapy. Additionally, we discuss the modulation of P-gp activity by 55 natural product drugs, including derivatives for some of them, based on our team’s research findings since 2011. Specifically, we prospect into sesquiterpenoids from the genera Artemisia, Curcuma, Ferula, Inula, Petasites, and Celastrus; diterpenoids from the genera Salvia and Euphorbia; chalcones from the genera Piper, Glycyrrhiza, Cullen, Artemisia, and Humulus; riccardins from the genera Lunularia, Monoclea, Dumortiera, Plagiochila, and Primula; and diarylheptanoids from the genera Alnus and Curcuma. Through comprehensive analysis, we aim to highlight the potential of natural products mainly identified in plants from Serbia in influencing P-gp activity and overcoming drug resistance in cancer therapy, while also providing insights into future perspectives in this field.
One-Pot Synthesis of Biochar from Industrial Alkali Lignin with Superior Pb(II) Immobilization Capability
Authors: Li Jiale , Liu Taoze , Wang Zhanghong
Published: September 2024

This study synthesized biochar through a one-pot pyrolysis process using IALG as the raw material. The physicochemical properties of the resulting biochar (IALG-BC) were characterized and compared with those of biochar derived from acid-treated lignin with the ash component removed (A-IALG-BC). This study further investigated the adsorption performances and mechanisms of these two lignin-based biochars for Pb(II). The results revealed that the high ash content in IALG, primarily composed of Na, acts as an effective catalyst during pyrolysis, reducing the activation energy and promoting the development of the pore structure in the resulting biochar (IALG-BC). Moreover, after pyrolysis, Na-related minerals transformed into particulate matter sized between 80 and 150 nm, which served as active adsorption sites for the efficient immobilization of Pb(II). Adsorption results demonstrated that IALG-BC exhibited a significantly superior adsorption performance for Pb(II) compared to that of A-IALG-BC. The theoretical maximum adsorption capacity of IALG-BC for Pb(II), derived from the Langmuir model, was determined to be 809.09 mg/g, approximately 40 times that of A-IALG-BC. Additionally, the adsorption equilibrium for Pb(II) with IALG-BC was reached within approximately 0.5 h, whereas A-IALG-BC required more than 2 h. These findings demonstrate that the presence of inorganic mineral components in IALG plays a crucial role in its resource utilization.
Simulation Analysis of Thermoacoustic Effect of CNT Film with Metasurface-Enhanced Acoustic Autofocusing
Authors: Rong Dalun , Li Zhe , Qi Qianshou , Liu Zhengnan , Zhou Zhenhuan , Xu Xinsheng
Published: September 2024

This study introduces a novel thermoacoustic (TA) focusing system enhanced by Airy beam-based acoustic metasurfaces, significantly improving acoustic focusing and efficiency. The system integrates a TA emitter, fabricated from carbon nanotube (CNT) films, with a binary acoustic metasurface capable of generating quasi-Airy beams. Through finite element simulations, the system’s heat conduction, acoustic focusing, and self-healing properties were thoroughly analyzed. The results demonstrate that the system achieves superior sub-wavelength focusing, tunable focal length via frequency control, and robust self-healing, even in the presence of obstacles. These findings address current limitations in TA emitters and suggest broader applications in medical ultrasound and advanced technology.
Negative Aspects of Dietary Habits in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Grot Martina , Białek-Dratwa Agnieszka , Krupa-Kotara Karolina , Grajek Mateusz , Nigowski Maciej , Szczepańska Elżbieta , Kowalski Oskar
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: Diet therapy is a key component of a holistic approach to the physiological and psychological health of children with autism spectrum disorders. A personalized diet, tailored to clinical symptoms, yields positive therapeutic effects. The aim of this study was to assess the intake of specific food groups and the dietary methods used among children and adolescents with autism. Methods: This study included 141 patients from neuropediatric centers diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. Inclusion criteria were parental consent for the study, age of the child, and autism diagnosis. The research tool was a custom questionnaire covering patients’ demographic data, type of disorder, and a qualitative analysis of the dietary habits of selected products. Results: The predominant dietary models were the basic diet (n = 26; 72.22%) and the elimination diet (n = 9; 25%), with a higher application rate among children with autism spectrum disorders. Aversion to specific foods/products was more prevalent in children with autism (n = 79; 75.24%) compared to those with other neurodevelopmental disorders (n = 10; 27.78%). Snacking between meals was significantly more common among the overall neuropediatric patient group (n = 140; 99.29%), with fruit purees (n = 33; 23.57%) and fruits (n = 28; 20%) being the most frequently consumed snacks. Conclusions: The qualitative analysis of dietary habits revealed selective food aversions and eating disorders due to a narrow range of frequently consumed products within dietary groups.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Vitamin D Deficiency in Patients Scheduled to Undergo Revision Arthroplasty of the Hip, Knee and Shoulder—Data from a Single-Centre Analysis
Authors: Horas Konstantin , Hoxha Miledi , Heinz Tizian , Jakuscheit Axel , List Kilian , Maier Gerrit S. , Weißenberger Manuel , Rudert Maximilian
Published: September 2024

Vitamin D is crucial for ideal bone health and good muscle function, both essential requirements for successful joint arthroplasty. Hence, vitamin D deficiency has recently been identified as a predictor of poorer outcomes in patients scheduled to undergo total joint arthroplasty (TJA). Moreover, there is ample evidence today that vitamin D deficiency is associated with periprosthetic joint infection. Yet, vitamin D deficiency seems to be frequent in patients who are scheduled to undergo TJA. However, the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in patients who require revision arthroplasty (rTJA) is largely unknown. Further, risk factors of vitamin D deficiency in these patients remain to be elucidated. For this reason, the primary objective of this study was to assess the vitamin D status of patients scheduled to undergo rTJA of the hip, knee and shoulder. The secondary objective was to identify potential risk factors for hypovitaminosis D in these patients. Serum vitamin D [25(OH)D] levels of 249 patients who were scheduled for rTJA were assessed over a period of twelve months at a high-volume TJA centre. Collectively, 23% of patients reported a routine intake of vitamin D supplements (58/249). Notably, 81% of patients (155/191) who did not report a routine vitamin D intake presented with insufficient vitamin D levels (below 30 ng/mL), while only 19% of patients (36/191) had sufficient vitamin D levels. Of those who reported a routine vitamin D intake, 75% (43/58) had sufficient vitamin D levels, while 25% (15/58) showed insufficient vitamin D status. Patients who did not routinely take any vitamin D supplements had significantly lower vitamin D levels compared to patients who reported regular vitamin D intake (19.91 ng/mL vs. 40.66 ng/mL). Further, BMI and nicotine abuse were identified as potential risk factors for hypovitaminosis D in patients without vitamin D supplementation. Moreover, the season of spring seems to be a risk factor in patients with vitamin D supplementation, while age itself did not appear to be a significant risk factor for low vitamin D levels. In conclusion, we found an alarmingly high rate of vitamin D deficiency in patients scheduled to undergo rTJA. Notably, reported routine vitamin D supplementation showed significantly increased serum vitamin D levels compared to patients with no reported supplementation. Due to the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, we believe that vitamin D status should routinely be assessed in patients who are scheduled to undergo rTJA.
Feasibility Testing of the Health4LIFE Weight Loss Intervention for Primary School Educators Living with Overweight/Obesity Employed at Public Schools in Low-Income Settings in Cape Town and South Africa: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Hoosen Fatima , Faber Mieke , Nel Johanna H. , Steyn Nelia P. , Senekal Marjanne
Published: September 2024

Given the high prevalence of overweight and obesity amongst educators, this study investigated the feasibility of the 16-week Health4LIFE weight loss intervention for primary school educators living with overweight/obesity in low-income settings in Cape Town, South Africa. The research comprised two sub-studies, a pilot randomised controlled trial testing the intervention (10 intervention, n = 79 and 10 control schools, n = 58), and an investigation of the perceptions of participating educators and principals. Feasibility outcomes included reach, applicability, acceptability, implementation integrity, and a hypothesis-generating signal of effect on lifestyle factors and weight. The intervention consisted of a wellness day, weight loss manual, and text messages. Results indicated acceptable reach, with positive feedback on intervention components from principals and educators. Implementation was largely successful, though three schools dropped out due to scheduling issues. Barriers included interruption of teaching time and busy school schedules. The intervention group (n = 42) showed favourable shifts in belief patterns, stages of change, and lifestyle behaviours, with a trend towards weight loss. Control group (n = 43) changes were limited to dietary intake. The triangulation of results supported the intervention’s feasibility in terms of primary and secondary outcomes. Recommendations for enhancement include adding in-person follow-up sessions and an app-based element to potentially increase impact on lifestyle indicators and weight loss.
Synergistic Effects of Time-Restricted Feeding and Resistance Training on Body Composition and Metabolic Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ho Yiling , Hou Xiao , Sun Fenghua , Wong Stephen H. S. , Zhang Xiaoyuan
Published: September 2024

Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the synergistic impact of time-restricted feeding (TRF) combined with resistance training (RT) (TRF + RT) on body composition and metabolic health in adults, contrasting it with habitual eating patterns (CON) and RT (CON + RT). Methods: Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, five databases were searched up to 28 April 2024. Randomized controlled trials or crossover trials assessing the effects of TRF + RT for at least 4 weeks in adults were selected. Data were pooled as standardized mean differences (SMDs) or weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The risk of bias was evaluated using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Results: Seven studies with 164 participants were included in the final analysis. TRF + RT significantly reduced body mass (WMD −2.90, 95% CI: −5.30 to −0.51), fat mass (WMD −1.52, 95% CI: −2.30 to −0.75), insulin (SMD −0.72, 95% CI: −1.24 to −0.21), total cholesterol (WMD −9.44, 95% CI: −13.62 to −5.27), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (WMD −9.94, 95% CI: −13.47 to −6.41), and energy intake (WMD −174.88, 95% CI: −283.79 to −65.97) compared to CON + RT. No significant changes were observed in muscle mass, strength, or other metabolic markers. Conclusions: TRF + RT, in contrast to CON + RT, significantly improved body composition, insulin, and cholesterol levels without affecting muscle mass or strength.
Effect of a Phytochemical-Rich Olive-Derived Extract on Anthropometric, Hematological, and Metabolic Parameters
Authors: Aiello Anna , Calabrone Luana , Noonan Douglas M. , Corradino Paola , Nofri Sara , Cristoni Simone , Accardi Giulia , Candore Giuseppina , Caruso Calogero , Zinellu Angelo , Albini Adriana
Published: September 2024

Background: Extra virgin olive oil is a fundamental component of the Mediterranean diet. It contains several molecules that sustain human well-being by modulating cellular metabolism and exerting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-ageing effects to protect normal tissues, and it can exert anti-angiogenic and pro-apoptotic effects on cancer cells. Metabolites found in different parts of the olive tree, including leaves, also possess properties that might help in cancer prevention and promote wellness in aging. Olive mill wastewater (OMWW), a liquid residue produced during olive oil extraction, represents an environmental issue. However, it is rich in phytochemicals with potential beneficial properties. Dietary supplements based on OMWW can be produced for nutritional supplementation with advantages to the ecology. Purpose: This work aims to measure hematochemical, anthropometric, and metabolomic parameters in volunteers taking an OMWW dietary supplement, Oliphenolia® (OMWW-OL). Methods: The supplementation of OMWW-OL 25 mL twice daily for 30 days was tested on a pilot cohort of volunteers with characteristics close to metabolic syndrome. Hematochemical, anthropometric, serum biomarkers and serum metabolomic parameters were analyzed before the intervention, at 30 days, and 30 days after stopping consumption. Results: A total of 29 volunteers were enrolled, and 23 completed the study. The participants’ parameters at baseline were measured, and then twice daily at 30 days of treatment and 30 days after assumption discontinuation. Although treatment was with an olive derivative, their weight did not increase. Their body mass index, instead of augmenting, slightly decreased, particularly in the women. Also, hydration increased, especially in the women, while blood pressure, glycemia, and insulin decreased. Cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins, and triglycerides were stable, and LDL levels decreased, while vitamin D levels, alongside calcium, perceptibly increased. Albumin also increased. All the values were in support of an equilibrium, with no damaging effects. By mass spectrometry analysis, we also found favorable changes in the vitamin D/histamine and homocysteine/methionine ratios, an increase in a new metabolite of unknown formula, and the vitamin D/unknown metabolite ratio. Conclusions: Supplementation of OMWW-OL has no detrimental effects and might imply the beneficial modulation of several biological parameters. Although this is a small pilot study, with limited potency, it preliminarily suggests that the OMWW extract use could be potentially valuable for people at risk of metabolic syndrome. Some of these parameters could also be relevant in supporting healthy ageing and in cancer prevention.
Exploring the Therapeutic Implications of Co-Targeting the EGFR and Spindle Assembly Checkpoint Pathways in Oral Cancer
Authors: Calheiros-Lobo Mafalda , Silva João P. N. , Pinto Bárbara , Monteiro Luís , Silva Patrícia M. A. , Bousbaa Hassan
Published: September 2024

Head and neck cancer (HNC), the sixth most common cancer worldwide, is increasing in incidence, with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) as the predominant subtype. OSCC mainly affects middle-aged to elderly males, often occurring on the posterior lateral border of the tongue, leading to significant disfigurement and functional impairments, such as swallowing and speech difficulties. Despite advancements in understanding OSCC’s genetic and epigenetic variations, survival rates for advanced stages remain low, highlighting the need for new treatment options. Primary treatment includes surgery, often combined with radiotherapy (RT) and chemotherapy (CT). Cetuximab-based chemotherapy, targeting the overexpressed epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in 80–90% of HNCs, is commonly used but correlates with poor prognosis. Additionally, monopolar spindle 1 (MPS1), a spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) component, is a significant target due to its role in genomic fidelity during mitosis and its overexpression in several cancers. This review explores EGFR and MPS1 as therapeutic targets in HNC, analyzing their molecular mechanisms and the effects of their inhibition on cancer cells. It also highlights the promise of combinatorial approaches, such as microtubule-targeting agents (MTAs) and antimitotic agents, in improving HNC therapies, patient outcomes, and survival rates.
Fracture Properties of Nitrogen–Slick Water Composite Fracturing in Coal Reservoir
Authors: Wang Menglong , Tian Lin , Wu Jinghao , Cao Yunxing , Wang Li , Shi Bin , Sun Mingyue , Liu Shimin , Hu Yunbing
Published: September 2024

Nitrogen–slick water composite fracturing is a novel, recently developed fracturing technology. Due to its impact on increasing permeability, this technology outperforms hydraulic fracturing. This study adopted the horizontal well XJ-1L, Xinjing coal mine, Qinshui Basin, China, as a study area to statistically analyze the fracture properties, stress drop, and b-value distribution characteristics of 1217 effective micro-seismic events generated during nitrogen–water composite fracturing. The results show that: (1) gradually reducing the proportion of gas in fracturing fluid reduced the proportion of tensile fractures at a ratio of between 15.6% and 0.8%, whereas the proportion of strike-slip fractures gradually increased by between 1.6% and 15.2%; (2) the stress drop and b-values in the nitrogen fracturing (NF) stage, representative of stress disturbance, exceeded those in the hydraulic fracturing (HF) stage, consistent with greater numbers of tensile fractures formed in the NF stage; (3) the greater number of tensile fractures and their increasing permeability could be explained based on the influences of gas compressibility and pore pressure on coal fractures. This study provides a theoretical and practical basis for optimizing the exploitation of low-permeability coal reservoirs.
Survival of Chairside Posterior Single Crowns Made from InCoris TZI Zirconia—A Retrospective Analysis up to 10 Years
Authors: Neuhöffer Julius Jules , Stoilov Lea , Enkling Norbert , Stark Helmut , Kraus Dominik , Stoilov Milan
Published: September 2024

Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the long-term clinical survival and success of chairside-fabricated single-tooth monolithic zirconia restorations on posterior teeth using the speed sintering process. Materials and Methods: Between 2012 and 2022, 250 single-tooth crowns were fabricated for 193 patients using the CEREC® chairside workflow. Restorations were fabricated from monolithic 3Y-TZP zirconia (InCoris TZI, Dentsply Sirona©, Bensheim, Germany) as full-contour crowns. The same clinician performed all procedures. Luting was performed using self-adhesive resin-based cements or glass ionomer cement. Retrospective analysis was conducted, defining survival as crowns still in function regardless of any interventions, and success as crowns that remained functional without the need for intervention. Statistical analysis was performed using Kaplan–Meier analysis, considering “refabrication” and “intervention” as endpoints. Results: Of the 250 crowns, a total of 162 (64.8%) crowns showed success. Over the whole observation period, 44 crowns (17.6%) required refabrication, and 88 (35.2%) required intervention. Mean survival without refabrication was 7.43 years, with a 5- and 7.5-year survival of 86.9% and 76.6%. The mean survival without intervention was 6.5 years, with a 5- and 7.5-year survival of 70.8% and 59.9%. Conclusions: Under appropriate technical conditions, chairside-fabricated 3Y-TZP zirconia single-tooth crowns represent a viable fabrication method. Neither the cementation mode nor the crown position—whether on premolars or molars—significantly impacted the survival rates.
Research of a 0.14 THz Dual-Cavity Parallel Structure Extended Interaction Oscillator
Authors: Xiao Chuanhong , Ren Ruizhe , Wu Zhenhua , Li Yijun , You Qing , Shi Zongjun , Zhang Kaichun , Chen Xiaoxing , Zhan Mingzhou , Liu Diwei , Zhong Renbin , Liu Shenggang
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a method to enhance extended interaction oscillator (EIO) output power based on a dual-cavity parallel structure (DCPS). This stucture consists of two conventional ladder-line structures in parallel through a connecting structure, which improves the coupling efficiency between the cavities. The dual output power fusion structure employs an H-T type combiner as the output coupler, which can effectively combine the two input waves in phase to further increase the output power. The dispersion characteristics, coupling impedance, and field distribution of the DCPS are investigated through numerical and simulation calculations, and the optimal operating parameters and output structure are obtained by PIC simulation. At an operating voltage of 12.6 kV, current density of 200 A/cm2, and longitudinal magnetic field of 0.5 T, the DCPS EIO exhibits an output power exceeding 600 W at a frequency of 140.6 GHz. This represents a nearly three-fold enhancement compared with the 195 W output of the conventional ladder-line EIO structure. These findings demonstrate the significant improvement in output power and interaction efficiency achieved by the DCPS for the EIO device.
Application of Hyperspectral Imaging and Multi-Module Joint Hierarchical Residual Network in Seed Cotton Foreign Fiber Recognition
Authors: Zhang Yunlong , Zhang Laigang , Guo Zhijun , Zhang Ran
Published: September 2024

Due to the difficulty in distinguishing transparent and white foreign fibers from seed cotton in RGB images and in order to improve the recognition ability of deep learning (DL) algorithms for white, transparent, and multi-class mixed foreign fibers with different sizes in seed cotton, this paper proposes a method of combining hyperspectral imaging technology with a multi-module joint hierarchical residue network (MJHResNet). Firstly, a series of preprocessing methods are performed on the hyperspectral image (HSI) to reduce the interference of noise. Secondly, a double-hierarchical residual (DHR) structure is designed, which can not only obtain multi-scale information, but also avoid gradient vanishing to some extent. After that, a squeeze-and-excitation network (SENet) is integrated to reduce redundant information, improve the expression of model features, and improve the accuracy of foreign fiber identification in seed cotton. Finally, by analyzing the experimental results with advanced classifiers, this method has significant advantages. The average accuracy is 98.71% and the overall accuracy is 99.28%. This method has great potential for application in the field of foreign fiber identification in seed cotton.
Current Mirror Improved Potentiostat (CMIPot) for a Three Electrode Electrochemical Cell
Authors: Souza Alexandre Kennedy Pinto , Cruz Carlos Augusto de Moraes , Júnior Élvio Carlos Dutra e Silva , Pontes Fagnaldo Braga
Published: September 2024

This work presents a novel compact CMOS potentiostat-designed circuit for an electrochemical cell. The proposed topology functions as a circuit interface, controlling the polarization of voltage signals at the sensor electrodes and facilitating current measurement during the oxidation–reduction process of an analyzed solution. The potentiostat, designed for CMOS technology, comprises a two-stage amplifier, two current mirror blocks coupled to this amplifier, and a CMOS push–pull output stage. The electrochemical method of cyclic voltammetry is employed, operating within a voltage range of ±0.8 V and scan rates of 10 mV/s, 25 mV/s, 100 mV/s, and 250 mV/s. The circuit is capable of reading currents ranging from 10 µA to 500 µA. Experimental results were obtained using a potassium ferrocyanide K3[Fe(CN)6] redox solution with concentrations of 10, 15, and 20 mmol/L, and their corresponding voltammograms were evaluated. The experimental results from a discrete circuit demonstrate that the proposed potentiostat topology produces outcomes consistent with those of classical topologies presented in the literature and industrial equipment.
Gas Detection and Classification Using Multimodal Data Based on Federated Learning
Authors: Sharma Ashutosh , Khullar Vikas , Kansal Isha , Chhabra Gunjan , Arora Priya , Popli Renu , Kumar Rajeev
Published: September 2024

The identification of gas leakages is a significant factor to be taken into consideration in various industries such as coal mines, chemical industries, etc., as well as in residential applications. In order to reduce damage to the environment as well as human lives, early detection and gas type identification are necessary. The main focus of this paper is multimodal gas data that were obtained simultaneously by using multiple sensors for gas detection and a thermal imaging camera. As the reliability and sensitivity of low-cost sensors are less, they are not suitable for gas detection over long distances. In order to overcome the drawbacks of relying just on sensors to identify gases, a thermal camera capable of detecting temperature changes is also used in the collection of the current multimodal dataset The multimodal dataset comprises 6400 samples, including smoke, perfume, a combination of both, and neutral environments. In this paper, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are trained on thermal image data, utilizing variants such as bidirectional long–short-term memory (Bi-LSTM), dense LSTM, and a fusion of both datasets to effectively classify comma separated value (CSV) data from gas sensors. The dataset can be used as a valuable source for research scholars and system developers to improvise their artificial intelligence (AI) models used for gas leakage detection. Furthermore, in order to ensure the privacy of the client’s data, this paper explores the implementation of federated learning for privacy-protected gas leakage classification, demonstrating comparable accuracy to traditional deep learning approaches.