bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting weld pool metrics in laser welding of aluminum alloys using data-driven surrogate modeling: A FEA-DoE-GPRN hybrid approach
Authors: Duggirala Aparna , Acherjee Bappa , Mitra Souren
Published: May 2024

Multi-physics computational models based on finite element analysis, offer detailed insights into the dynamics and metrics in the weld pool formed by laser welding. Conversely, data-driven surrogate models provide a cost-effective means to predict desired responses. These models establish statistical or mathematical correlations with input–output data, eliminating the need for additional simulations during design optimization. This study proposes a data-driven surrogate model, employing the Gaussian process regression network (GPRN), to predict weld pool metrics, such as weld width and depth of penetration in laser welding of aluminum alloy. A 3D computational fluid dynamics-based numerical model is initially constructed and experimentally validated to predict weld pool metrics. Subsequent experimental runs, guided by the design of experiments, include various configurations of process parameter settings. The developed numerical model computes weld pool metrics for each experimental run, forming a dataset for training and testing the GPRN model. The GPRN model is evaluated against simulated data, showing adequacy with a mean square error of 1.7 µm and mean absolute percentage error of 10−7, with experimental validation further confirming its accuracy, revealing a minimum error of 1.7%, a maximum error of 8%, and an average error of 3%. The key contribution and novelty of this study lie in the development of the hybrid data-driven model, which accurately predicts weld pool metrics while minimizing experimental and computational efforts.
Machinability and pulse characteristics of Ti-16Al-14Nb (α/β) alloy in wire-electric discharge machining process: A surface integrity study
Authors: Veera Venkata Nagaraju K. , Joseph Davidson M. , Venkatesh G. , Manjaiah M. , Harikrishna K.
Published: May 2024

The goal of the present work is to produce the efficient cutting of Ti-16Al-14Nb (α/β) alloy through wire-electric discharge machining and contemplate the terminologies such as machining ability, surface integrity and material removing capability. For this, the experimentation has been designed by considering three process parameters, pulse-on time ( Ton), pulse-off time ( Toff) and peak current ( Ip) at three significant levels (low, high, intermediate) in L27 order designed from design of experiments. The effect of these process variables on pulse characteristics, surface roughness ( Ra), kerfwidth ( Kw) and material removal rate ( MRR) is analyzed and mathematically modeled with analysis of variance. The results state that the highest MRR (0.521, 0.51, 0.506 mm3/sec) and low surface roughness (8.91, 8.89, 8.68 µm) values are observed at the highest level (110 µs, 15 µs, 8 A). If the pulse duration is kept at low ( Ton = 40µs, Toff = 3µs), the increase in peak current from 3 A to 8 A leads to a 64.54% increase in MRR and a 52.9% increase in Ra values. ANOVA results stated that Ton has contributed 20.4%, 35.8% and 19.3%, and Ip has contributed 43.1%, 30.5% and 46.6% influence on MRR, Kw and Ra respectively. The voltage–current characteristics studies confirmed that the strong intense pulses at a higher peak current (8 A) resulted in the increased MRR (0.521 mm3/sec) and Ra (8.43 µm) leading to the formation of swages and ridges. The surface integrity analysis derived from Abbott–Firestone curve agreed that the lowest level has shown better skewness ( Rsk = −0.274) and at highest level showed a larger deviation in skewness ( Rsk = +2.672) signifies that higher asymmetry (poor) of the surface.
Indian energy policies amidst urban population and economic growth: Sourcing evidence from time-frequency domain analysis
Authors: Sinha Avik , Adebayo Tomiwa Sunday , Bekun Festus Victor
Published: May 2024

Relying solely on fossil fuel-driven economic growth could prove unsustainable, particularly in India, where the adverse environmental impact of this growth trajectory is increasingly affecting overall economic development. This challenge may hinder the realization of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) in the country. Therefore, to address this policy concern, an empirically investigation on the influence of various growth drivers on India's economic growth from 1965 to 2019 was conducted by this present study. Leveraging time-frequency estimators like gradual shift causality tests and Wavelet Coherence, the study yields a range of findings that can inform the formulation of an SDG-oriented policy framework. These outcomes not only acknowledge the detrimental environmental consequences of economic growth but also provide insights into addressing energy security issues. Ultimately, this research enhances to the literature by suggesting a comprehensive and adaptable policy framework aimed at advancing SDGs 7, 8, 12, and 13.
Demystifying estimands in cluster-randomised trials
Authors: Kahan Brennan C , Blette Bryan S , Harhay Michael O , Halpern Scott D , Jairath Vipul , Copas Andrew , Li Fan
Published: May 2024

Estimands can help clarify the interpretation of treatment effects and ensure that estimators are aligned with the study's objectives. Cluster-randomised trials require additional attributes to be defined within the estimand compared to individually randomised trials, including whether treatment effects are marginal or cluster-specific, and whether they are participant- or cluster-average. In this paper, we provide formal definitions of estimands encompassing both these attributes using potential outcomes notation and describe differences between them. We then provide an overview of estimators for each estimand, describe their assumptions, and show consistency (i.e. asymptotically unbiased estimation) for a series of analyses based on cluster-level summaries. Then, through a re-analysis of a published cluster-randomised trial, we demonstrate that the choice of both estimand and estimator can affect interpretation. For instance, the estimated odds ratio ranged from 1.38 ( p = 0.17) to 1.83 ( p = 0.03) depending on the target estimand, and for some estimands, the choice of estimator affected the conclusions by leading to smaller treatment effect estimates. We conclude that careful specification of the estimand, along with an appropriate choice of estimator, is essential to ensuring that cluster-randomised trials address the right question.
Goodness-of-fit tests for modified Poisson regression possibly producing fitted values exceeding one in binary outcome analysis
Authors: Hagiwara Yasuhiro , Matsuyama Yutaka
Published: May 2024

Modified Poisson regression, which estimates the regression parameters in the log-binomial regression model using the Poisson quasi-likelihood estimating equation and robust variance, is a useful tool for estimating the adjusted risk and prevalence ratio in binary outcome analysis. Although several goodness-of-fit tests have been developed for other binary regressions, few goodness-of-fit tests are available for modified Poisson regression. In this study, we proposed several goodness-of-fit tests for modified Poisson regression, including the modified Hosmer-Lemeshow test with empirical variance, Tsiatis test, normalized Pearson chi-square tests with binomial variance and Poisson variance, and normalized residual sum of squares test. The original Hosmer-Lemeshow test and normalized Pearson chi-square test with binomial variance are inappropriate for the modified Poisson regression, which can produce a fitted value exceeding 1 owing to the unconstrained parameter space. A simulation study revealed that the normalized residual sum of squares test performed well regarding the type I error probability and the power for a wrong link function. We applied the proposed goodness-of-fit tests to the analysis of cross-sectional data of patients with cancer. We recommend the normalized residual sum of squares test as a goodness-of-fit test in the modified Poisson regression.
Accessing third-party research databases for criminal investigations: Enhancing legal protections and safeguarding public interests
Authors: Chan Hui Yun , Lysaght Tamra , Lim Xin Xiang , Toh Hui Jin , Savulescu Julian
Published: May 2024

Recent expansions in databases containing clinical, research, or genetic information have created opportunities for other uses which differ from their original purposes. Legislative changes in some jurisdictions broadening the powers of law enforcement agencies to access these databases for criminal investigations have renewed concerns regarding protecting public safety through DNA profiling for criminal investigations and defending individuals’ interests in protecting their personal information. This article addresses the ethical and legal considerations around the widening of law enforcement agencies’ powers to collect DNA information and potential access to DNA databases for criminal investigations, focusing on the recent developments in Singapore in comparison with selected jurisdictions. It advocates for a tiered access approach to third-party research databases for specific crimes only. A tiered access approach facilitates the aims of safeguarding public interests through appropriate exercise of access powers, protecting individuals’ expectations of privacy of their personal information contained in these databases and supporting the continued sustainability of third-party research databases.
Beyond the Diagnosis: A Deep Dive Into the End Stage Liver Disease Experience From the Patient Perspective
Authors: Malik Sheza , Arutla Venkat , Alamin Tariq , Warraich Fatima , Syed Tausif A. , Nepal Mahesh , Ashraf Muhammad Farhan , Dunnigan Karin J.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

End-stage liver disease (ESLD) presents a multifaceted challenge that encompasses not only physical but also emotional, psychological, and social dimensions. This study aims to explore the experiences of ESLD patients within the United States healthcare system.

Methods

Utilizing a convenience sampling methodology, 15 ESLD patients from a tertiary care hospital in the USA participated in semi-structured interviews between April 2023 and January 2024. Data analysis was conducted using MAXQDA 2023, employing a phenomenological approach to identify common themes.

Results

The study identified six primary themes: the significance of communication style in diagnosis delivery, the crucial role of family and social support, varied understanding and preferences for palliative care, diverse attitudes towards advanced care planning, preferences for coordinated healthcare experiences, and the emotional and psychological impact of ESLD.

Conclusion

Our study underscores the complexity of ESLD patient care beyond medical treatment, highlighting the importance of clear communication, empathetic care, and the integration of family and palliative care services.
A 3D micromechanical model to predict the complete stress-strain relation of microencapsulated self-healing concrete
Authors: Han Kaihang , Ju J Woody , Chen Xiangsheng , Lv Le-Yang , Zhou Shuai , Wei Gang , Zhang Zhiguo , Cui Hongzhi
Published: May 2024

The research on the concrete structure built with self-healing materials brings inspiration to increase the safety and sustainability of underground structures in the whole life cycle. The utilization of microencapsulated healing agents in self-healing concrete has demonstrated efficacy in the repair of microcracks within concrete structures. Nevertheless, there exists a dearth of effective methodologies for assessing the impact of microcapsule parameters on the mechanical properties of self-healing concrete. This study introduces an innovative three-dimensional micromechanical model that can be utilized to analyze the micromechanical response of microencapsulated self-healing concrete under tensile loading conditions. The 3D micromechanical model is accomplished through the utilization of the elastic secant compliance tensor. Subsequently, a comprehensive examination is undertaken to analyze the progression of damage-healing in self-healing concrete incorporating microcapsules. Finally, a parametric investigation is conducted to elucidate the impact of the micro-parameters on the mechanical behavior of self-healing concrete. The present discovery holds significant implications for the development of microencapsulated self-healing concrete for underground structures, particularly in terms of establishing appropriate parameters.
Empowering School Nurses: Enhancing Child Trafficking Awareness and Preparedness in American Public Schools
Authors: Peck Jessica L. , Hettenhaus Katherine , King Kelcey , Rigby Kelley
Published: May 2024

Child trafficking poses a momentous public health threat to students in public schools. Although school nurses are exceptionally positioned to identify and respond to trafficking, most lack training and resources in this critical area. This project aimed to evaluate the impact of a multifaceted intervention on school nurse preparedness and practices related to child trafficking in an Oklahoma public school district. The project involved Unbound Now's nationally accredited training program for school nurses, implementation of the Fuentes et al.’s Toolkit for Building a Human Trafficking School Safety Protocol (HTSSP) funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services , and facilitation of a roundtable discussion to initiate community collaboration. The results of the pretraining Fraley and Aronowitz School Nurses’ Awareness and Perceptions Survey (SNAPS) illuminated variations in school nurses’ knowledge and awareness of child trafficking, demonstrating the need for continued training. Post-training evaluations exhibited highly positive feedback, suggesting its effectiveness in meeting the training's objectives. Following the community stakeholder roundtable, the lead school nurse employed the HTSSP toolkit and directed efforts in successfully constructing and implementing a district-wide policy of procedures to respond to suspected cases of human trafficking. However, the project's limitations include a small sample and a single-school district focus. Despite these limitations, this project delivers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for enhancing school nurse preparedness in addressing trafficking. This project serves as a foundation for future initiatives to improve students’ safety and wellbeing in public schools.
Reliability assessment and electromagnetic controller for semi-active impact damper in structural vibration control
Authors: Lu Zheng , Zhang Jiawei , Zhou Mengyao , Zhang Hengrui , Masri Sami F , Du Jiang
Published: May 2024

This study proposes a semi-active controller for impact dampers to address the challenge of achieving ideal impacts that occur exclusively when the structure reaches to its equilibrium position. The control effectiveness and reliability of the semi-active impact damper (SAID) both over time and with parameter variations are assessed and compared with passive impact dampers. Furthermore, the performance of SAID under deviations from the ideal control strategy is investigated, considering three types of non-ideal impact time and friction effects. The mathematical solution for the ideal control strategy is derived, and a strong positive correlation is found between control efficiency and SAID parameters through theoretical analysis and numerical simulation. The corresponding suggestions are provided for addressing parameter variations and deviations from ideal control strategy of SAID. Based on the investigation of extended impact conditions, a feasible SAID controller configuration with adjustable gap clearance is proposed, effectively addressing time lag issues. Experimental results validate the numerical method and practical implementation of the proposed electromagnetic controller for SAID, which can efficiently control structural responses under random low-frequency excitations such as earthquakes.
Thinking Beyond Victim and Perpetrator in the Sociology of the Exilic Intellectual: Conflict, Memory, and Wound
Authors: Dillabough Joanne , Al Azmeh Zeina
Published: May 2024

How might researchers studying conflict and academic exile embrace Saidiya Hartman’s and Sertdemir Özdemir’s concerns about the role of pity and myth within the wider context of research on exilic scholars? How might researchers re-represent both conflict and exiled intellectuals without reproducing enmity in times of rising authoritarianism? And how might we conceptualize political implication in research on exilics, particularly in the face of war and conflict? We reflect on these questions through a conceptual engagement with a researcher’s involvement in studying academic exile and view this involvement as a form of critical intellectual positioning with the wider geopolitical contexts of Turkey and Syria.
Doing Academia Differently: In Conversation With Neuroatypicality
Authors: Bozalek Vivienne , van Hove Geert , Romano Nike
Published: May 2024

This special issue originated from a webinar series made possible through a Tri-Continental (3C) Partnership between the University of the Western Cape, the University of Missouri, and Ghent University. These universities organized a series of webinars on the theme “Doing Academia differently: In conversation with neuroatypicality.” The Tri-Continental (3C) Partnership is a trilateral agreement that set out to promote partnership between the three institutions during a time of travel restrictions due to the global pandemic.
Keeping the Conversation Going: Rendering Each Other Capable While Creating Zines
Authors: Carette Lieve , de Bie Lee , Brown Kate , De Schauwer Elisabeth
Published: May 2024

In response to Lee de Bie and Kate Brown’s webinar on neuroatypicality in academia, Lieve Carette and Lee de Bie delve into the concept of “relational access” and its transformative influence on neurodivergent relationships, overcoming obstacles and expanding possibilities of support. Drawing inspiration from the creative initiatives of Mad and neurodivergent students and staff reshaping the academy, the authors share insights from their 6-year friendship, exploring the challenges of navigating university through neuroatypicality. Their interconnected reflections underscore the importance of facilitating the creation of the zine “Outliers” in shaping their dialogues. Within the context of Qualitative Inquiry, this article indirectly explores zines as an academic methodology, emphasizing the integral role of the intimate relationship in zine project development and personal and professional growth. The paper concentrates on the zine’s impact within their relationship, accentuating its modest contribution to the project’s inception compared with its substantial significance in their lives and personal growth.
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome in an 11-Year-Old Boy: A Case Report
Authors: Gharti Sakar Babu , Shrestha Nischal , Thapa Kaushal Samsher , Shah Rajat , Khanal Priti , Shah Rajnish Kumar , Gharti Sanjeeb Babu , Tiwari Umesh
Published: May 2024

Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (SMAS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition caused by the compression of the duodenum by the superior mesenteric artery. We report a case of an 11-year-old male who complaint of abdominal pain and intermittent vomiting for last 3 weeks. Diagnosis of SMAS was made with the help of radiological findings. The patient was managed conservatively with nutritional support, prokinetic agents, and stomach decompression. After 2 weeks of treatment, the patient’s symptoms improved, and he was discharged from the hospital.
“I had no idea there were psychiatric clinics for children”: A qualitative study of how migrant parents reach Swedish mental health services for their children
Authors: Gubi Ester , Hollander Anna-Clara , Bäärnhielm Sofie
Published: May 2024

Migrant children have repeatedly been shown to underutilize psychiatric services and to face barriers to care, yet few studies have examined the experience of migrant parents who are successful in their help-seeking efforts for their children's mental health. The aim of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of facilitators and obstacles to reaching care among migrant parents in contact with child psychiatric services. We explored how migrant parents in Stockholm, Sweden, experienced the process of reaching child mental health services. Participants were recruited from out-patient mental health clinics. Ten in-depth interviews were conducted; qualitative analysis of transcripts was undertaken using thematic content analysis. Parents described a desire to reach services but difficulties doing so on their own. We identified a strong dependence on referring agents, such as schools and child health centers, for parents to gain contact. Informants expressed a high degree of trust toward these agents. Contrary to previous studies, stigma was not described as an obstacle to help-seeking but was recognized by informants as a potential barrier to care had they not emigrated. Although participants in our study had differing educational backgrounds and residency times in Sweden, a common experience of reliance on others for reaching services was evident in the data. Our findings highlight the role of referring agents as bridging contacts between different welfare services. Understanding the specific local resources and services that are available to migrant parents, and strengthening these across different sectors, could potentially help reduce barriers to care.
Globally connected, nationally restrained: Platform ambiguities and censorship in Turkey's drama production
Authors: Bulut Ergin
Published: May 2024

About a decade ago, Turkey's television drama makers believed that streaming platforms would expand markets and create an uncensored space. Platforms did partly reform working conditions and enable drama creatives globally to produce quality shows. Yet creatives remain politically restrained because of platforms’ compliance with state regulations. Drawing on platform studies’ emphasis on how platforms have both restraining and enabling features, and extending this towards the contradictions around creative freedom and state control, I conceptualize drama creatives’ working experiences with national and global streaming platforms through platform ambiguity. Platform ambiguity allows a grasp of how platforms exert power over cultural producers by both enabling and restraining their creative work. Dewesternizing platforms and cultural production scholarship by highlighting how drama makers are not only creative but also geopolitical subjects dependent on the state, I show that their imaginaries and labour practices are always embedded in national contexts and shaped by regulatory structures.
Intersectional invisibility: The moderating impact of perceived incongruence between stigmatized identities
Authors: Sternberg Béatrice , Badea Constantina , Sesko Amanda K. , Rubin Mark
Published: May 2024

There is evidence that people with multiple stigmatized identities sometimes experience psychological invisibility—perceivers show difficulty remembering information about these targets (e.g., their faces, spoken statements). In three experiments (total N = 397; within-subject design), we examined how North African gay men’s invisibility is impacted by the perceived incongruence between their minority identities. Across all studies, participants made more memory errors for North African gay men’s statements when they personally believed that being both gay and North African is highly incongruent. In addition, evidence for the salience of intersectional categories as an underlying psychological mechanism was found (Study 3). The present work adds to the literature by showing that invisibility depends on the characteristics of the targets but also on perceivers’ beliefs about targets’ identity incongruence.
Stakeholder perceptions of regulatory responses to misinformation in Kenya and Senegal
Authors: Mudavadi Kevin C , Matanji Frankline , Diop Layire , Tully Melissa , Madrid-Morales Dani
Published: May 2024

While misinformation is very prevalent in Africa, we have a limited understanding of how key stakeholders, such as journalists, fact-checkers, policy experts, and educators, perceive responses to misinformation to address its spread. Based on an analysis of 46 interviews with media professionals and other key stakeholders from Kenya and Senegal, we find divergent perceptions of what regulatory interventions are needed to slow the spread of misinformation in the two countries. In Kenya, stakeholders advocated for self-regulation rather than government intervention to curb misinformation, while in Senegal, they called for more government regulations to address its spread. Additionally, interviewees perceived regulatory approaches, such as proposed laws to address misinformation, as reactive solutions, often resulting from a specific incident in the country, and educational approaches, such as requiring media literacy education in schools, as sustainable solutions with potentially longer-term outcomes.
Water-based corrosion inhibitor for prevention and repair of reinforcement in chloride and carbonated environment
Authors: Tiwari Ashish Kumar , Dogra Purnima , Goyal Shweta , Luxami Vijay
Published: May 2024

This paper explores the influence of 2-aminopyridine (2AP) as water-based migratory corrosion inhibitor (M-CoI) on the corrosion resistance of reinforcing steel bars embedded in ordinary Portland cement and pozzolanic Portland cement concrete subjected to combined chloride and carbonation ingress. Two applications of 2AP are considered i.e., preventive (applied before exposure to aggressive environment) and repair (applied after corrosion initiates). Corrosion performance was assessed using electrochemical techniques and gravimetric mass loss method. The study also examines the impact of 2AP application on chloride ion concentration and carbonation depth of both concrete systems. The compressive strength of each concrete system was also measured to study the impact of M-CoI application on strength properties. Surface condition of hardened concrete and extracted rebar was evaluated by optical microscopy. Results conclude that 2AP effectively retards reinforcement corrosion when used as preventive measure by forming a homogeneous inhibitive layer on steel. However, when used as a repair technique, localised and uniform corrosion was perceived. An attempt has been made to identify the cause of non-performance of 2AP as repair measure. It was concluded that reached concentration of 1 mM was not sufficient to reduce ongoing corrosion due to the accumulation of corrosion products. The influence of the inhibitor on chloride profile and carbonation depth was found to be insignificant. It is concluded that chloride ions initiate the corrosion mechanism, while carbonation exacerbates it, particularly in blended cement concrete. Nonetheless, inhibitor application can provide similar resistance in both concrete systems.
Yes She Can: Examining the Career Pathways of Black Women in Higher Education Senior Leadership Position
Authors: Pinto Ransford , Douglas Ty-Ron M. O. , Lane-Bonds Dena , McMillian Rhodesia
Published: May 2024

Problem

Black women continue to face significant underrepresentation in senior leadership roles, particularly within higher education. Despite this disparity, there exists a dearth of research and understanding surrounding the achievements and success narratives of those who have managed to ascend to senior-level leadership positions within the higher education sector.

Solution

Higher education institutions and professionals in the HRD field ought to develop and implement identity-based leadership initiatives that address the distinctive challenges Black women (as well as other women of color) face in leadership roles. Concurrently, universities are encouraged to establish structured mentoring programs to facilitate connections between Black women leaders and mentors possessing either congruent or divergent identities, but with a demonstrated cultural competence capable of accommodating the mentee’s requirements. Furthermore, universities must formulate and uphold policies that cultivate and retain Black women’s talent, intellectual contributions, and leadership acumen.

Stakeholders

Black women leaders, human resource development researchers, practitioners, scholars, higher education administrators.
Deciphering the Epigenetic Symphony of Cancer: Insights and Epigenetic Therapies Implications
Authors: Akram Fatima , Tanveer Rida , Andleeb Sahar , Shah Fatima Iftikhar , Ahmad Tayyab , Shehzadi Somia , Akhtar Abdul Majeed , Syed Ghania
Published: May 2024

Epigenetic machinery is a cornerstone in normal cell development, orchestrating tissue-specific gene expression in mammalian cells. Aberrations in this intricate landscape drive substantial changes in gene function, emerging as a linchpin in cancer etiology and progression. While cancer was conventionally perceived as solely a genetic disorder, its contemporary definition encompasses genetic alterations intertwined with disruptive epigenetic abnormalities. This review explores the profound impact of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNAs on fundamental cellular processes. When these pivotal epigenetic mechanisms undergo disruption, they intricately guide the acquisition of the 6 hallmark characteristics of cancer within seemingly normal cells. Leveraging the latest advancements in decoding these epigenetic intricacies holds immense promise, heralding a new era in developing targeted and more efficacious treatment modalities against cancers driven by aberrant epigenetic modifications.
LncRNA AP000842.3 Triggers the Malignant Progression of Prostate Cancer by Regulating Cuproptosis Related Gene NFAT5
Authors: Zhou Gaobo , Chen Chaoqian , Wu Hongjian , Lin Jiao , Liu Hang , Tao Yiran , Huang Bin
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Prostate cancer (PRAD) is a highly malignant disease with poor prognosis, and its development is regulated by a complex network of genes and signaling pathways. LncRNAs and miRNAs have significant regulatory roles in PRAD through the ceRNA network. Cuproptosis is a unique form of programmed cell death that is involved in various signaling pathways and biological processes related to tumor development. Nuclear factor of activated T cells 5 (NFAT5), a transcription factor that activates T cells, has been implicated in cuproptosis. However, the regulatory mechanism by which NFAT5 is involved in the ceRNA network in PRAD remains unclear.

Methods

Through bioinformatics analysis, we found the ceRNA axis that regulates cuproptosis. By performing ROS assay and copper ion concentration assay, we demonstrated that inhibiting NFAT5 can increase the sensitivity of PRAD to cuproptosis inducers. By using luciferase assay, we discovered that AP000842.3 acts as the ceRNA of miR-206 to regulate the expression of NFAT5.

Results

In this study, we found that lncRNA AP000842.3, as a ceRNA of miR-206, was involved in the regulation of levels of the transcription factor NFAT5 associated with cuproptosis in PRAD. First, knocking down NFAT5 can increase the sensitivity of PRAD to cuproptosis inducers. Meanwhile, changes in the expression of AP000842.3 and miR-206 could affect the proliferation of PRAD by regulating NFAT5. Mechanistically, AP000842.3 acts as the ceRNA of miR-206 to regulate the expression of NFAT5. In addition, the effects of lncRNA AP000842.3 on malignant progression of PRAD and NFAT5 were partially dependent on miR-206.

Conclusion

Taken together, our study reveals a key ceRNA regulatory network in PRAD and can be regarded as a new potential target for PRAD diagnosis and treatment.
Dosimetric Effect of Target Position Accuracy on Single-Isocenter Multiple Liver Metastases SBRT
Authors: Zhang Yun , Niu Shanzhou , Yuan Jun , Wang Xiaoping , Gong Changfei , Tang Chunbo
Published: May 2024

Purpose: To evaluate the dosimetric effects of intrafraction baseline shifts combined with rotational errors on Four-dimensional computed tomography-guided stereotactic body radiotherapy for multiple liver metastases (MLMs). Methods: A total of 10 patients with MLM (2 or 3 lesions) were selected for this retrospective study. Baseline shift errors of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mm; and rotational errors of 0.5°, 1°, and 1.5°, were simulated about all axes. All of the baseline shifts and rotation errors were simulated around the planned isocenter using a matrix transformation of 6° of freedom. The coverage degradation of baseline shifts and rotational errors were analyzed according to the dose to 95% of the planning target volume (D95) and the volume covered by 95% of the prescribed dose (V95), and related changes in gross tumor volume were also analyzed. Results: At the rotation error of 0.5° and the baseline offset of less than 0.5 mm, the D95 and V95 values of all targets were >95%. For rotational errors of 1.0° (combined with all baseline shift errors), 36.3% of targets had D95 and V95 values of <95%. Coverage worsened substantially when the baseline shift errors were increased to 1.0 mm. D95 and V95 values were >95% for about 77.3% of the targets. Only 11.4% of the D95 and V95 values were >95% when the baseline shift errors were increased to 2.0 mm. When the rotational error was increased to 1.5° and baseline shift errors increased to 1.0 mm, the D95 and V95 values were >95% in only 3 cases. Conclusions: The multivariate regression model analysis in this study showed that the coverage of the target decreased further with reduced target volume, increasing the baseline drift, the rotation error, and the distance to the target.
Noninvasive Assessment of Tumor Histological Grade in Invasive Breast Carcinoma Based on Ultrasound Radiomics and Clinical Characteristics: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Ge Lifang , Wu Jiangfeng , Jin Yun , Xu Dong , Wang Zhengping
Published: May 2024

Rationale and Objectives: We aimed to develop and validate prediction models for histological grade of invasive breast carcinoma (BC) based on ultrasound radiomics features and clinical characteristics. Materials and Methods: A number of 383 patients with invasive BC were retrospectively enrolled and divided into a training set (207 patients), internal validation set (90 patients), and external validation set (86 patients). Ultrasound radiomics features were extracted from all the eligible patients. The Boruta method was used to identify the most useful features. Seven classifiers were adopted to developed prediction models. The output of the classifier with best performance was labeled as the radiomics score (Rad-score) and the classifier was selected as the Rad-score model. A combined model combining clinical factors and Rad-score was developed. The performance of the models was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve. Results: Seven radiomics features were selected from 788 candidate features. The logistic regression model performing best among the 7 classifiers in the internal and external validation sets was considered as Rad-score model, with areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values of 0.731 and 0.738. The tumor size was screened out as the risk factor and the combined model was developed, with AUC values of 0.721 and 0.737 in the internal and external validation sets. Furthermore, the 10-fold cross-validation demonstrated that the 2 models above were reliable and stable. Conclusion: The Rad-score model and combined model were able to predict histological grade of invasive BC, which may enable tailored therapeutic strategies for patients with BC in routine clinical use.
Just Fun and Games? A Sociological Consideration of Fun in Video Games
Authors: Crawford Garry , Brock Tom
Published: May 2024

The concept of “fun” is widely used within the game design and game studies literature, and is frequently highlighted as a key component of good game design, as well as a key factor in why people play games. However, it is a term rarely unpacked, and fun in video games remains relatively underresearched, certainly in comparison to other associated terms such as “play.” This article therefore provides a much-needed sociological exploration of a term at the center of games design and studies, and moreover, argues, that doing so allows us to explore a range of important and related topics, such as the changing relationship between work and leisure and the blurring of fun and no-fun boundaries, as well as enabling us to delineate between often interchangeably used terms, such as happiness, enjoyment, and pleasure.
Entropy generation analysis for hybrid nanofluid mobilized by peristalsis with an inclined magnetic field
Authors: Kazmi S N , Abbasi F M , Shehzad S A
Published: May 2024

The purpose of the present study is to analyse the entropy generation for the hybrid nanofluid mobilised by peristalsis. The hybrid nanoliquid is suspension of copper [Formula: see text] and iron-oxide [Formula: see text] nanoparticles in water. Impacts of magnetic field, Joule heating, mixed convection, heat source/sink and viscous dissipation are reckoned. Governing set of equations are simplified by using lubrication approach. Obtained system of differential equations are solved numerically. Special attention is paid to analyse the effects of hybrid nanomaterial, Hartman and Grashoff numbers on entropy generation, Bejan number, axial velocity, temperature, heat transmission rate at walls, pressure gradient, skin friction, Nusselt number. Flow behaviour is visualised through streamlines. The study reveals that velocity and temperature decrease on increasing the volume fraction of solid nanomaterials. Higher Grashoff and Hartman numbers augment both velocity and temperature. Better heat transfer performance is recorded for strong Hartman number. [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] improve Entropy generation and Bejan number. Higher Hartman number causes decrement in pressure gradient. Addition of nanoparticles concentration reduces skin friction. High flow rate increases trapping phenomenon.
Hierarchical gain scheduling based tilt angle guided robust control during mode transition for tilt-rotor unmanned aircraft vehicle
Authors: Nie Hongyu , Gu Feng , He Yuqing
Published: May 2024

Tilt-rotor unmanned aircraft vehicle has the potential to combine vertical take-off and landing capability with efficient, high-speed cruise flight. However, the mode transition process is risky owing to the internal continuous time change of aerodynamic and external uncertain wind disturbances. Gain scheduling between two modes is commonly used to achieve mode transition control. However, the optimal scheduling parameters to allocate the manipulated variables for the stable transition have not been determined to data. Focusing on this problem, a gain scheduling-based tilt angle guided robust control method for mode transition is proposed. The dynamic model is first built and analyzed based on a newly developed 360-kg tilt-rotor unmanned aircraft vehicle. Based on this model, the transition guided curve is mapped with respect to velocity and tilt angle, and it is introduced to the gain scheduling method to optimally achieve the allocation of the manipulated variables. Finally, the feasibility and validity are verified in a simulation experiment. Furthermore, the robustness is verified in simulated wind disturbance.
Deep reinforcement learning and decoupling proportional-integral-derivative control of a humanoid cable-driven hybrid robot
Authors: Liu Yong , Luo Zhisheng , Qian Sen , Wang Shuaikang , Wu Zhe
Published: May 2024

Aiming at the application of robots in service, medical treatment, rehabilitation, and other fields, a humanoid cable-driven hybrid robot by imitating the structure of human arm is designed in this article. The robot is composed of a cable–spool–pulley system, series mechanism, and coaxial spherical parallel mechanism, which can achieve six degrees of freedom movement in space. A challenge with cable driving is that the movement of the rear end joints (such as pitch and roll) can alter the length or tension of the cable driven by the frontend joints, resulting in joint coupling. This interference can lead to a decrease in the motion accuracy of the robotic arm. In addition, it also affects the durability of cables or mechanical components such as bearings and pulleys. Considering the joint motion coupling phenomenon caused by the cable-driven, the decoupling method is proposed, and the kinematic model of the robot is established. To solve the nonlinear coupling characteristics and the uncertainty of the dynamics parameters, a controller is proposed for the humanoid cable-driven hybrid robot, combining proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control based on decoupling method (DC-PID) and the double delay deep deterministic policy gradient (TD3) deep reinforcement learning algorithm. The trajectory tracking of the end-effector position and orientation are controlled by using DC-PID and TD3. And the simulation results show that the proposed control method has good trajectory tracking and convergence performance according to trajectory tracking error and training reward. Finally, the humanoid cable-driven hybrid robot prototype is developed. The experimental results of coupling compensation show that the average maximum error of the joint is reduced by 77.58% after considering the coupling compensation of the joint. The results of the controller validation experiments show that the DC-PID controller reduces the maximum error in each axis by 11.54%, 35.29%, and 40.16%, respectively, compared to the open-loop experiments.
“The thing in my arm”: Providing contraceptive services for adolescents in primary care
Authors: Lewin Amy , Skracic Izidora , Brown Ellie , Roy Kevin
Published: May 2024

Background:

Due to high rates of unintended pregnancies in Delaware, the state launched a public health initiative in 2014 to increase access to contraceptive services.

Objectives:

This study was designed to assess the practice-level barriers and facilitators to providing contraceptive care, particularly long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), to adolescents in primary care settings.

Design:

This qualitative study was part of a larger process evaluation of the Delaware Contraceptive Access Now (DelCAN) initiative.

Methods:

In-depth, semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 16 practice administrators at 13 adolescent-serving primary care sites across the state of Delaware. A process of open, axial, and selective coding was used to analyze the data.

Results:

Despite the interest in LARC among their adolescent patients, administrators described numerous barriers to providing LARC for adolescents including confidentiality in patient visits and billing, preceptorship, and provider discomfort and assumptions about the need for contraception among adolescent patients.

Conclusion:

Findings from this study reveal substantial barriers to providing contraception to adolescents, even in primary care practices that were committed to comprehensive contraceptive access for their adolescent patients. This study supports the need for contraceptive care to be integrated into training of pediatricians at every stage of their education. Such training must go beyond education about contraceptive options and the clinical skills necessary for LARC insertion and removal, to include counseling skills based in a reproductive justice framework. Additional changes in policies and practices for adolescent patients would further increase access to contraceptive care.
Avoiding pitfalls in conducting hand surgery research: the feasibility analysis
Authors: Marks Miriam , Broekstra Dieuwke C.
Published: May 2024

This paper is intended to support hand surgeons who, at the beginning of their research career, are planning a clinical study. Besides establishing the research methodology of the study, the organizational planning of the work itself is essential. A feasibility analysis carried out before or during the writing of the study protocol helps to estimate the required resources and duration of a project. We highlight some tips and tricks as well as provide checklists that outline the important points to consider before starting a study.
Prevalence, infant outcomes and gestational risk factors for transverse reduction deficiencies at or above the wrist: a population-based study
Authors: Sletten Ida Neergård , Jokihaara Jarkko , Klungsøyr Kari
Published: May 2024

We identified individuals born in Norway between 1970 and 2019 with transverse reduction deficiency at or above the wrist (TRDAW) from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway and from the CULA (congenital upper limb anomaly) North Oslo Registry. Infant outcomes and parental factors were compared for 202 individuals with TRDAW to 2,741,013 living individuals without TRDAW born during the same period. We found an overall TRDAW prevalence of 0.74/10,000. Infants with TRDAW had a higher risk for being small for gestational age, an Apgar score <7 and transfer to neonatal intensive care units after delivery. Nine of the infants with TRDAW had associated anomalies, most commonly in the lower limb, and at a higher proportion than the reference population. Other than twin pregnancies, we are unable to identify with certainty any other risk factors for TRDAW.

Level of evidence: I
Investigation of the short-term in vivo performance of metal-on-carbon fibre reinforced poly ether ether ketone Motec wrists: an explant analysis
Authors: Joyce Thomas J. , Kandemir Göksu , Warwick David , Brown Daniel J.
Published: May 2024

Total wrist arthroplasty (TWA) aims to restore pain-free motion to diseased joints. One such TWA, the Motec, has demonstrated good results with acceptable complication rates. It has recently been suggested that the metal-on-carbon fibre reinforced poly ether ether ketone (Mo-CFR-PEEK) version of the Motec TWA be implanted instead of the metal-on-metal version. An explant analysis was undertaken on seven Motec Mo-CFR-PEEK TWAs, revised for a variety of reasons, after a mean time of 2 years in vivo. Compared to a new Motec implant, five of the explanted metal heads and three of the CFR-PEEK cups became smoother in vivo, suggesting self-polishing and negative skewness, indicating some material loss in vivo. Two explanted cups showed indentation marks on their rims and one of these was from component impingement with embedded metallic debris. In the short-term, the articulating surfaces of Motec Mo-CFR-PEEK TWAs did not show major damage.

Level of evidence: IV
Outcomes of complete neurotomy and immediate repair of the musculocutaneous nerve for treatment of elbow spasticity
Authors: Tan Ruth En Si , Ng Lloyd Jee Hean , Chew Effie , Lim Aymeric Yu Tang
Published: May 2024

Neurotomy interrupts the stretch reflex and can be used for the treatment of spasticity. We hypothesized that neurotomy with nerve repair reduces spasticity while preserving motor function due to the preferential recovery of efferent over afferent fibres. This study reports the 1-year outcomes of neurotomy and immediate repair of the musculocutaneous nerve in the proximal arm for treatment of elbow flexor spasticity, comparing these to outcomes in the literature for neurectomy without nerve repair. A total of 10 adult patients with spasticity of the elbow flexors from stroke or traumatic brain injury who had undergone neurotomy and immediate repair of the musculocutaneous nerve were prospectively studied. The results suggest that this procedure effectively reduces elbow flexor spasticity, improves elbow resting position, active elbow extension and is useful for achieving patient goals with effects lasting at least 12 months.

Level of evidence: IV (therapeutic)
Surgeon variation in rates of surgery for trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis in the United States
Authors: Davids Floor A. , Brinkman Niels , Ring David , Adams Julie E.
Published: May 2024

We identified wide variation in surgery for trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis among surgeons in the United States, with 42% performing no surgery, a median rate of surgery of 1.9/year, and 2% performed more than 30 procedures annually, representing 15% of all surgical procedures for TMC arthritis.