bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Advanced doping method for highly conductive CNT fibers with enhanced thermal stability
Authors: Choi Minseouk , Cho Young Shik , Lee Kyunbae , Jung Yeonsu , Park Kyung Tae , Kim Taehoon 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Due to the inherent limitations of metals, such as their poor performance at high temperatures caused by thermo-oxidation and expansion, carbon nanotube yarns (CNTFs) have emerged as promising alternatives because of their high electrical conductivity and thermal stability. Doping of CNTFs has been widely studied because it significantly increases electrical conductivity through a simple process. Despite these advantages, doped CNTFs are not suitable for extreme environments, especially high temperatures. This is due to the weak interaction between dopants and CNTFs, along with the low thermal stability of the dopants themselves, leading to dopant decomposition and oxidation at high temperatures. Herein, we present doped CNTFs that are covalently functionalized with a nitrogen compound composed of imide and nitro groups, which are renowned for good thermal stability. The electron-withdrawing effect of this nitrogen compound polarizes the CNTFs to a positive charge, inducing p-type doping effects and enhancing electrical conductivity from 2989 to 4008 S cm−1. The strong covalent bonding between the nitrogen compound and CNTFs, along with the thermal stability of the dopants, ensures that the electrical conductivity of our doped CNTFs is maintained even after annealing at 300 °C for 12 h. Our proposed doped CNTFs offer a guideline for expanding the practical applications of doped CNTFs to a wider range of high-temperature environments.
Enhancing heat transfer performance in forced convective systems using experimental study with crystalline nano cellulose-dispersed H2O/C2H6O2 nanofluids
Authors: Chaparala Vidya , Sastry G Ravi Kiran , Prasanthi P Phani 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
This work examines the heat transfer properties of a forced convection circular tube heat exchange system employing a nanofluid made of crystalline nano cellulose (CNC) diluted in a 60:40 ratio of distilled water (H2O) and ethylene glycol (C2H6O2). The objective is to measure the generated nano-fluid's thermal characteristics and analyze its potential for usage as a cooling agent in thermal systems, with a focus on encouraging the use of this biodegradable green coolant. A single pipe forced convection system was used for the experimental experiments, which were focused on a temperature range of 30 °C to 100 °C and nanoparticle volume concentrations of 0.1% to 0.9%. The investigation looks at the density, heat conductivity, and viscosity of the nanofluid, among other important thermo-physical characteristics. The findings show that the coolant's density exhibits an inverse relationship with temperature, increasing as nanoparticle dispersion occurs. At a concentration of 0.9% and room temperature, the dynamic viscosity was 0.0096 kg m−1.sec. A 0.9% concentration of nanoparticle dispersion resulted in a significant increase in thermal conductivity of 27.8%. The effectiveness of the nanofluid is demonstrated by the measurement of pressure drop and convective heat transfer coefficients across the flow channel. The maximum convective heat transfer coefficient of 262.2 W m−2K−1 was recorded at a discharge rate of 17.5LPM and a concentration of 0.9% of nanoparticles. A temperature of 70 °C was found to yield the best heat transfer coefficient and the least amount of pressure loss when the nanoparticle volume percentage was 0.65%.
Design, analytical and computational analysis, and development of a high-precision CNC spindle for a vertical machining center
Authors: Abdullah Muhammad , Bukhari Syed Masood Arif , Husnain Naveed , Zaman Muhammad Farooq , Tariq Ammar , Siddiqui Farrukh Arsalan , Ahmad Rauf , Nasir Muhammad Dawood 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
This research focuses on design, simulation and development of a high precision Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) spindle for vertical machining center. High speed spindle is designed and analyzed under the varying load conditions. SolidWorks 2020 is used for designing of CNC spindle (based on ISO BT40 standards) and ANSYS Workbench 2020 is used for analysis. Moreover, analytical calculations for deformation are also done. Three different materials i.e. AISI 4340 steel, Grey cast iron, and Ti6Al4V alloy are chosen for the analysis. Effect of varying load on deformation and stress on CNC spindle is discussed. AISI 4340 steel showed better mechanical characteristics as compared to other materials. Moreover, the results showed that steel gives lesser values of deformation as compared to other materials, when applied under different load conditions. Although Grey cast iron can be economical and weight of the spindle can also be reduced but Grey Cast iron has greater value of deformation when load is applied. On the other hand, Ti6Al4V alloy specimen exhibited less stress as compared to other materials but mechanical properties in terms of modulus of elasticity are not that good as AISI 4340 steel. So, AISI 4340 steel could be a good option for spindle materials that require desired properties such as strong corrosion resistance, tensile strength, yield strength, and propagation. This will boost the accuracy and efficiency of spindle. Based on these results, high-precision CNC spindle was developed.
Modeling of specific fuel consumption for compression ignition engines fueled with polymer-based fuel: a response surface methodology approach
Authors: Modi Maulik A , Patel Tushar M 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background. Diesel engines play a crucial role in ensuring human comfort and well-being across residential, commercial, transportation, and emergency response sectors because of their reliability and versatility. However, identifying alternative fuels remains a significant challenge. Objective. This study aims to develop a comprehensive mathematical model using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) to optimize the performance of Compression Ignition (CI) engines utilizing different types of plastic pyrolysis oil. Methods. Through systematic data collection and analysis, this study examines the importance of design parameters, specifically injection pressure, compression ratio, engine load, and type of plastic pyrolysis oil, which are important for specific fuel consumption. A prediction model was developed to identify the complex correlations between these factors and the fuel use. Results. The developed model serves as an effective tool for optimizing the CI engine performance under diverse operational conditions. Experimental validation involved testing diesel engines with conventional diesel fuel and various plastic pyrolysis oils, followed by optimization using RSM to achieve optimal engine performance. The engine load was identified as the most significant parameter affecting the specific fuel consumption, followed by the fuel type, injection pressure, and compression ratio. The high R-squared (99.35%) and adjusted R-squared (98.02%) values indicate that the proposed model effectively fits the experimental data. Conclusion. The RSM-based model effectively optimizes CI engine performance under varied operational conditions. It significantly reduces the time and effort required to optimize engine design variables, thus enhancing engine performance and sustainability.
Directions
Authors: Shoemaker David 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
A widespread assumption in the literature is that the conditions of self-blame will simply be drawn from the proper characterization of other-blame. This chapter undercuts this assumption. It is motivated in two ways. The first involves thinking about athletic self-blame, which doesn’t seem to fit well within any extant account of other-blame. The other is a puzzle: if the emotional paradigms of other-blame and self-blame were analogous, different only in terms of their directions, then every single case of self-blame ought to be hypocritical, insofar as the blamer would be unapologetically guilty of the same thing the blamed was guilty of. But there is no such hypocritical self-blame, so their emotional cores are different. The remainder of the chapter draws from research in the psychology of exercise to explain why self-blame’s emotional core is a different kind of anger from other-blame’s, as well as what this means for the architecture.
Seed functional ecology in Brazilian rock outcrop vegetation: an integrative synthesis
Authors: Ordóñez-Parra Carlos A , Medeiros Natália F , Dayrell Roberta L C , Le Stradic Soizig , Negreiros Daniel , Cornelissen Tatiana , Silveira Fernando A O 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background and Aims
Rock outcrop vegetation is distributed worldwide and hosts a diverse and unique flora that evolved under harsh environmental conditions. Unfortunately, seed ecology in such ecosystems has received little attention, especially regarding seed traits, germination responses to abiotic factors and the potential role of phylogenetic relatedness in shaping such features. Here, we provide the first quantitative and phylogenetically informed synthesis of the seed functional ecology of Brazilian rock outcrop vegetation, with a particular focus on quartzitic and ironstone campo rupestre.

Methods
Using a database of functional trait data, we calculated the phylogenetic signal for seven seed traits for 371 taxa and tested whether they varied among growth forms, geographic distribution and microhabitats. We also conducted meta-analyses that included 4252 germination records for 102 taxa to assess the effects of light, temperature and fire-related cues on the germination of campo rupestre species and explored how the aforementioned ecological groups and seed traits modulate germination responses.

Key Results
All traits and germination responses showed a moderate to strong phylogenetic signal. Campo rupestre species responded positively to light and had maximum germination between 20 and 25 °C. The effect of temperatures beyond this range was moderated by growth form, species geographic distribution and microhabitat. Seeds exposed to heat shocks above 80 °C lost viability, but smoke accelerated germination. We found a moderating effect of seed mass for responses to light and heat shocks, with larger, dormant seeds tolerating heat better but being less sensitive to light. Species from xeric habitats evolved phenological strategies to synchronize germination during periods of increased soil water availability.

Conclusions
Phylogenetic relatedness plays a major role in shaping the seed ecology of Brazilian rock outcrop vegetation. Nevertheless, seed traits and germination responses varied significantly between growth forms, species geographic distribution and microhabitats, providing support to the regeneration niche hypothesis and the role of functional traits in shaping germination in these ecosystems.
Changes in Volume of Lips in 3-Dimensional Analysis and Projection of Lips in Sonography After Injection of Particle-Type Hyaluronic Acid Filler Utilizing a 9-Point Injection Technique
Authors: Kim Jong Seo 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Lip augmentation procedure with hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers can make patients younger with more attractive. After the injection on the lips, the result is temporary. Physicians and patients wonder how long the HA filler last on the lips.

Objectives
The main goal of this study is to determine how much volume of HA is reduced after injection on the lips utilizing a “9-point” injection technique.

Methods
In this prospective study, 25 females were injected using HA filler and evaluated using noninvasive 3-dimensional-scanner analysis before, 1 h, 1 week, 1 month, 6 months, and 9 months after injection. The changes in projection of lips were evaluated using sonography. The patients were treated as usual manner in a single clinic. Using 29-gauge needle, 20 mg/mL of HA filler was injected into the lips. Default injection amount was 1 cc. HA filler was injected submucosally using linear thread and fanning technique.

Results
Twenty-three patients were followed up. The mean age was 34.8 years (range, 20-48 years). The volume of lips became 181.34% (±61.14) at 1 h, 91.18% (±10.12) at 1 week, 75.09% (±11.02) at 1 month, 55.36% (±10.48) at 6 months, and 39.21% (±4.54) at 9 months. The projection of upper lip areas increased 25.3% at 1 h, 22.8% at 1 week, 17.7% at 1 month, 14.8% at 6 months, 11.5% at 9 months in sonography. The projection of lower lip areas increased 23.1% at 1 h, 20.7% at 1 week, 15.9% at 1 month, 13.9% at 6 months, and 10.6% at 9 months in sonography.

Conclusions
Lip augmentation with HA showed improved shape during 9 months. The volume of HA decreased at a constant rate after injection, except for the first week. Injected HA was absorbed at a constant rate, and more than half was absorbed after 9 months utilizing a “9-point” injection technique.

Level of Evidence: 4 (Therapeutic)
High-dimensional multivariate analysis of variance via geometric median and bootstrapping
Authors: Cheng Guanghui , Lin Ruitao , Peng Liuhua 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
The geometric median, which is applicable to high-dimensional data, can be viewed as a generalization of the univariate median used in 1-dimensional data. It can be used as a robust estimator for identifying the location of multi-dimensional data and has a wide range of applications in real-world scenarios. This paper explores the problem of high-dimensional multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) using the geometric median. A maximum-type statistic that relies on the differences between the geometric medians among various groups is introduced. The distribution of the new test statistic is derived under the null hypothesis using Gaussian approximations, and its consistency under the alternative hypothesis is established. To approximate the distribution of the new statistic in high dimensions, a wild bootstrap algorithm is proposed and theoretically justified. Through simulation studies conducted across a variety of dimensions, sample sizes, and data-generating models, we demonstrate the finite-sample performance of our geometric median-based MANOVA method. Additionally, we implement the proposed approach to analyze a breast cancer gene expression dataset.
Integrating external summary information in the presence of prior probability shift: an application to assessing essential hypertension
Authors: Chen Chixiang , Han Peisong , Chen Shuo , Shardell Michelle , Qin Jing 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
Recent years have witnessed a rise in the popularity of information integration without sharing of raw data. By leveraging and incorporating summary information from external sources, internal studies can achieve enhanced estimation efficiency and prediction accuracy. However, a noteworthy challenge in utilizing summary-level information is accommodating the inherent heterogeneity across diverse data sources. In this study, we delve into the issue of prior probability shift between two cohorts, wherein the difference of two data distributions depends on the outcome. We introduce a novel semi-parametric constrained optimization-based approach to integrate information within this framework, which has not been extensively explored in existing literature. Our proposed method tackles the prior probability shift by introducing the outcome-dependent selection function and effectively addresses the estimation uncertainty associated with summary information from the external source. Our approach facilitates valid inference even in the absence of a known variance-covariance estimate from the external source. Through extensive simulation studies, we observe the superiority of our method over existing ones, showcasing minimal estimation bias and reduced variance for both binary and continuous outcomes. We further demonstrate the utility of our method through its application in investigating risk factors related to essential hypertension, where the reduced estimation variability is observed after integrating summary information from an external data.
SP2.2 - A Retrospective Audit: Evaluating Changes in Negative Appendicectomy Rates from 2019 Before the Establishment of the Emergency General Surgery Service at a Tertiary Centre to 2022
Authors: Solkar Maseera , Nassr Noon , Jones Sian , Hughes Mike , Kowal Mikolaj , Peckham-Cooper Adam 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction and Aim
Negative surgical exploration for suspected acute appendicitis remains prevalent, with a reported 20% rate in the UK Right Iliac Fossa Pain Treatment (RIFT) study. WSES guidelines endorse structured diagnostic pathways to decrease negative appendicectomy rates. To enhance acute surgery care, a dedicated Emergency General Surgery (EGS) service was established at a tertiary centre in 2020. This retrospective audit compares the negative appendicectomy rates between 2019 and 2022, therefore the main aim is to assess whether the introduction of a consultant-led EGS service influenced overall negative appendectomy rates.

Methodology
Appendicectomy numbers and histology results from 2019 and 2022 were analyzed. Histologically normal appendix cases were deemed negative appendicectomies, excluding unclear, other conditions, or missing reports. A retrospective review was conducted pre- and post-EGS service implementation.

Results
In 2019, 479 appendicectomies were audited, with a mean age of 34; 51% were female, and 20% were negative. Negative cases averaged 28 years, with 67% females. In 2022, 420 cases had a mean age of 40; 45% were female, 55% male, and negative rates reduced to 13%. Negative cases averaged 29 years, with 62% females.

Conclusions
Between 2019 and 2022, age groups were comparable. Negative cases in both years were more likely to be younger females compared to positive and total groups. The EGS service introduction demonstrated a notable decrease in negative appendectomy rates from 20% to 13% within two years, suggesting that consultant-led EGS services effectively reduce negative appendicectomy rates.
SP2.5 - The Impact of Timing on Outcomes in Appendicectomy: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Calpin Gavin , Hembrecht Sandra , Giblin Katie , Hehir Cian , Dowling Gavin , Hill Arnold 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Aims
Appendicectomy remains the standard treatment for appendicitis. There is a lack of clarity on the timeframe in which surgery should be performed to avoid unfavourable outcomes. We aimed to perform a systematic review and network meta-analysis to evaluate the impact the (1)time-of-day surgery is performed, (2)time elapsed from symptom onset to hospital presentation (patient time), (3)time elapsed from hospital presentation to surgery (hospital time), and (4)time elapsed from symptom onset to surgery (total time) have on appendicectomy outcomes.

Methods
A systematic review was performed as per PRISMA-NMA guidelines. The time-of-day which surgery was done was divided into day, evening and night. The other groups were divided into &lt;24 hours, 24-48 hours and &gt;48 hours. The rate of complicated appendicitis, operative time, perforation, post-operative complications, surgical site infection (SSI), length of stay (LOS), readmission and mortality rates were analysed.

Results
Sixteen studies were included with a total of 232,678 patients. The time of day at which surgery was performed had no impact on outcomes. The incidence of complicated appendicitis, post-operative complications and LOS were significantly better when the hospital time and total time were &lt;24 hours. Readmission and mortality rates were significantly better when the hospital time was &lt;48 hours. SSI, operative time, and the rate of perforation were comparable in all groups.

Conclusion
Appendicectomy within 24 hours of hospital admission is associated with improved outcomes. The time-of-day which surgery is performed does not impact outcomes. Appendicectomy should be performed promptly upon confirmation of diagnosis to reduce complication rates and improve outcomes.
SP3.9 - Evaluating the effects of prehabilitation on patients undergoing resections for colorectal cancer
Authors: Murage Nora Wangari , Noureldin Khaled , Yasmin Humaira , Javed Ahsan , Ahmed Shakil 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Surgery is the mainstay of treatment for colorectal cancer (CRC), often associated with delayed recovery. Prehabilitation is a trimodal service aimed at optimising the physical, nutritional, and psychological wellbeing of patients prior to surgery. This study aims to compare the effect of prehabilitation on patient outcomes.

Methods
This is a retrospective study including all patients undergoing elective surgical resections for CRC at a tertiary centre between January-July 2022, categorised in two groups: standard pre-op care (non-prehab) vs those getting prehabilitation (prehab). Primary outcomes were length of stay (LOS) and post-operative complications (Clavien Dindo classification). Secondary goals were to identify proportion of patients received screening for nutrition and diabetic control. p&lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results
Ninety-five patients were included (54 males, 41 females). 76% (n=71) were referred for prehabilitation. Median time to the first prehabilitation appointment was 7 days (IQR 0-61). LOS was reduced by one day (prehab 8 days, non-prehab 9 days, p=0.186). This equated to cost saving of £41,606 in the prehab group (£586.00 per day). Patients in the prehab group developed fewer post-operative complications (46%, n=33) compared to the non-prehab group (67%, n=16), p=0.042) Based on Clavien-Dindo classification, non-prehab group developed more severe post-operative complications compared to prehab (CD 4-5, 4% vs 0% respectively). Only 41% patients of the whole cohort (n=39) had nutritional bloods taken and 57% (n=54) were screened for diabetes.

Conclusion
Prehabilitation is useful in reducing post-operative complications rates and inpatient expenses. Future studies may improve on optimising nutrition and diabetic control.
SP5.10 - Statin use during neoadjuvant therapy is an independent marker for a favourable Neoadjuvant Rectal (NAR) score in locally advanced rectal cancer when analysing common concomitant medications
Authors: Wrobel Aleksandra , McMahon Ross K , Steele Colin W , Roxburgh Campbell S D 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Aim
The extent of neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) response is an important prognosticator in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). The Neoadjuvant Rectal (NAR) is validated as a pseudo-continuous measurement of response, and a surrogate marker of long-term outcomes. We investigated the impact of common concomitant medications (statins, antiplatelets, metformin) on the extent of response using the NAR score.

Methods
A retrospective review of regional cancer centre LARC patients undergoing NAT was performed between June 2016 - 2021. The NAR score was calculated as previously described by George et al (2015).

Results
253 patients were included. 104(34%), 52(17%), and 19(6%) patients took statins, antiplatelets, and metformin respectively. 90% of those on an antiplatelet are also on a statin. Of those on statins, 45.2% and 14.4% also took antiplatelets or metformin respectively.
There was no significant association with concomitant medication use and disease stage or tumour size. Only metformin use associated with the absence of Extramural vascular invasion (EMVI) (p=0.031) on pre-NAT MRI. Neither antiplatelets nor metformin use associated with the extent of NAT response.
Statin use associated with a favourable NAR score (p=0.008). On multivariate analysis with pre-NAT mrEMVI and nodal status, concomitant statin use independently predicted a favourable NAR score of &lt;16 (OR 2.019, 95%CI 1.11-3.67, p=0.021).

Conclusion
Concomitant statin use at time of neoadjuvant therapy associates with a favourable response. Antiplatelet and metformin use does not appear to influence response. Analysis through a clinical trial of statin use combined with neoadjuvant therapy may give more insight into how it influences response.