bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Experimental investigation and simulation analysis of cast-steel joints under vertical pressure
Authors: Li Zhihao , Zhang Yizhong , Du Wenfeng , Zhu Liming 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The joint made of cast steel is frequently utilized within a treelike column structure to ensure a smooth transition. It is of great significance in ensuring the overall structural safety, but currently, the mechanical property and bearing capacity of this type of joint cannot be fully understood. This study delves into the load-bearing characteristics of such a cast-steel joint featuring three branches. Initially, a comprehensive model of the cast-steel joint, sourced from a practical engineering, underwent vertical load testing. Detailed scrutiny of stress distribution and vertical displacement of the tested joint was conducted based on the experimental outcomes. Subsequently, a finite element model of the tested joint was constructed using SolidWorks and subjected to analysis via ANSYS. The numerical findings were juxtaposed with experimental data and extrapolated to encompass other parametric scenarios. Ultimately, a regression analysis method was employed to derive a calculation formula for the load-carrying capacity of branch-bearing cast-steel joints. This formula aids in estimating geometric parameters and load-bearing capacity during the preliminary design phase. Comparative analysis reveals a substantial concurrence among experimental, finite element analysis, and formula-based predictive outcomes.
Personalized Learning Path Generation Based On Neuro-cognitive Collaborative Filtering
Authors: Qu Yuxian , Wang Lei , Zhang Huanhuan , Li Wei , Zhao Zhiqiang 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
With the rapid development of information technology in education, teaching resources have increased dramatically and the teaching environment has improved. However, resource overload and learning disorientation are challenges faced by learners. This study proposes a personalized learning path generation model based on neurocognitive collaborative filtering technology. By analyzing learners' personalized static parameters and dynamic learning behavior data, explicit and implicit weak knowledge points are identified, and optimized learning paths are generated. The empirical results show that the method significantly improves learners' learning outcomes and satisfaction over traditional methods. This study promotes the development of personalized learning design and effective learning support systems with important implications for educational practice.
Application of Improved Unet Network in the Recognition and Segmentation of Pneumoconiosis CT Images
Authors: Zhou Zhengsong , Li Xin , Ji Hongbo , Xu Xuanhan , Chang Zongqi , Wu Keda , Song Yangyang , Kao Mingkun , Chen Hongjun , Wu Dongsheng , Zhang Tao 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
Pneumoconiosis has a significant impact on the quality of patient survival. This study aims to evaluate the performance and application value of improved Unet network technology in the recognition and segmentation of lesion areas in lung CT pneumoconiosis images.
Methods
A total of 1212 lung CT images of patients with pneumoconiosis were retrospectively included. The improved Unet network was used to identify and segment the CT image regions of the patients' lungs, and the image data of the granular regions of the lungs were processed by the watershed and region growing algorithms. After random sorting, 848 data were selected into the training set and 364 data into the testing set. The experimental dataset was augmented by data, and then model training and testing were carried out to examine the segmentation performance and compare the segmentation results with traditional Unet networks.
Results
In the segmentation of lung CT granular region, the improved Unet network innovated the network structure in a lightweight way, optimized the residual block, and used GeLu function to replace ReLu function. The three evaluation indexes of Dice similarity coefficient, positive prediction value (PPV), and sensitivity coefficient(SC) reached 0.848, 0.884, and 0.895, respectively. Compared with the traditional Unet network, the improved Unet network was improved by 7.6%, 13.3% and 3.9%, respectively, while the segmentation performance was also better than the traditional Unet network.
Conclusions
The improved Unet network proposed in this study shows good performance in the recognition and segmentation of abnormal regions in lung CT images of pneumoconiosis patients, and is an appropriate method for the recognition and segmentation of abnormal regions in lung CT images, showing potential application value for assisting clinical decision-making.
Oral cryotherapy by Kangfuxin for prophylaxis of oral mucositis in patients undergoing autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Chen Dan , Li Fang-fang , Yao Hao , Zhu Hong-mei , Wang Xiao , Zhang Xiao-mei , Ma Ting , Zhang Hui , Ma Yan-qiong , Wang Xin-miao , Wang Yong-hua , Yi Hai 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Oral mucositis is a common occurrence in autogeneic transplant patients, and there is currently no effective treatment method. This study aims to explore the preventive and delaying effects of oral cryotherapy by Kangfuxin (KFX) on oral mucositis in patients undergoing autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation(auto-HSCT). A randomized grouping method was employed to select 86 patients who underwent autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in the department between January 2020 and August 2023. The patients were divided into a control group (40 cases) and an experimental group (46 cases) randomly. Cold physiological saline mouthwash was used for the prevention and treatment of oral mucositis in the control group, with intermittent rinsing during chemotherapy drug infusion and throughout the chemotherapy process. The experimental group used KFX, starting 30 minutes before chemotherapy and with intermittent rinsing during chemotherapy. The two groups were compared in terms of oral mucositis grading, pain scores, and general patient conditions, and observations and records were made. Results: The results showed that the experimental group effectively prevented the occurrence of oral mucositis compared to the control group, with a higher proportion of Grade 0 oral mucositis. The proportion of Grade III-IV in the control group was 32.5%, lower than the experimental group’s 10.8%, with statistically significant differences between the two groups (P < 0.05). The experimental group had fewer days of using lidocaine mouthwash and lower pain scores, showing statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, KFX oral cryotherapy has promising prospects as a dressing for full-thickness wound healing. It has a significant effect on the oral cryotherapy of patients undergoing auto-HSCT. It effectively prevents and delays the occurrence of oral mucositis, alleviates its severity, pain, and discomfort, and improves the general patient condition.
Investigation of the reproducibility and repeatability of commercial SERS substrates
Authors: Liu Qiqian , Azziz Aicha , Majdinasab Marjan , Arib Celia , Xiang Yang , Fu Weiling , Amiard Frédéric , Edely Mathieu , Chapelle Marc Lamy de la 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a powerful tool for the observation, the detection and the identification of chemical or biological species at low concentrations due to it’s high sensitivity, specific fingerprinting spectra and real-time detection. However, an important task is to define a suitable and reliabale protocol to ensure the reproducibility and repeatability of the SERS measurements in teh framework of SERS sensors.
In this paper , a special protocol of measurement have been applied to a commercial SERS Hamamatsu substrate from Hamamatsu Photonics by using diluted solution of 4-mercaptobenzoic acid (MBA) at excitation wavelengths 633nm. This protocol consists in recording 25 SERS maps equally distributed on the whole surface substrate. For each map, 16 spectra have been measure to calculate an average SERS signal of the map. A large set of recorded data for a total of 400 spectra have been collected and analyzed by using the integrated intensities of MBA bands to determine the reproducibility and repeatability of the substrate. This protocol could be applied to other substrates and to precisely evaluate their sensing performances.
Mechanochemical degradation of lindane – example of “self-healing” ability of some types of soil
Authors: Ilić Mila , Dević Gordana J. , Milić Jelena S. , Kašanin-Grubin Milica , Nedić Natalija Ž. , S Petrović P. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Halogenated persistent organic pollutants (POPs), which are purposefully rendered obsolete, are kept in stockpiles around the world, often in hazardous conditions. They pose a significant risk to both the environment and human health due to their proclivity to migrate and accumulate in the biosphere. Lindane is a dangerous substance that was previously used as a pesticide. Many countries have banned it due to its negative impact on the environment and human health. Lindane is particularly dangerous because it can linger in the environment for extended periods of time and accumulate in the food chain. Lindane contamination can occur from a number of sources, including contaminated soil, water, and air. Lindane can degrade via a variety of mechanisms, including biodegradation, photodegradation, hydrolysis, and chemical oxidation. Mechanochemical treatment has demonstrated the ability to degrade pollutants in both pure pollutants and contaminated soils. Adding co-milling agents to aid in the breakdown of organochlorine chemicals is the most common method of mechanochemically treating contaminated soil. Our research into two types of synthetic soil and genuine soil samples from different locations reveals a compelling relationship between the chemical composition of the soil and the extent of lindane breakdown, especially at low to moderate concentrations. This phenomenon, aptly dubbed "soil's self-healing ability," has far-reaching implications for cost-effective remediation practices. Knowing the magnitude of this impact also encourages economic revitalization, establishing soil remediation efforts as a dynamic engine of positive transformation.
Bibliometric analysis of global scientific literature on the application and implementation of artificial intelligence in higher education
Authors: Espinoza-Hurtado Oswaldo G. E. , Bastidas-Santivañez Juan Diego , Sarmiento-Peralta Giusseppe 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the bibliometric characteristics of global scientific literature on the application and implementation of artificial intelligence in higher education. A bibliometric study was conducted using a search strategy applied in Scopus. Productivity, visibility, and impact indicators were estimated using the SciVal tool. The majority of the world's scientific production on the subject belongs to the field of computer science and engineering. Additionally, high-impact journals play a significant role in dissemination. Articles published in recent years received higher citations. China and India have institutions actively contributing to productivity, although it is essential to strengthen international, inter-institutional, and interprofessional cooperation to promote and enhance the use of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning processes in higher education.
Development of Microwave Broadband Transparent Metamaterial Absorber Based on ITO
Authors: Wang Chenglong , Ji Shijun , Jin Dongjun , Zhao Ji 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
In this paper, a multilayer optically transparent metamaterial absorber (OTMA) with microwave broadband absorption properties based on indium tin oxide (ITO) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is designed. The electrical resonance and magnetic resonance generated by the ITO resonance structure of the upper and middle layers make the absorption rate of OTMA exceed 90% at 6.2 GHz-24.6 GHz. The proposed OTMA has polarization insensitivity and wide-angle absorption properties. The experimental results verified that the OTMA has good absorption properties. The absorber has potential application prospects in stealth device windows and electromagnetic shielding structures.
Consultation frequency for older patients in general practice: A nationwide cohort study of patient- and practice related factors
Authors: Olsen Jonas , Wehberg Sonja , Waldorff Frans Boch , Henriksen Daniel Pilsgaard , Lykkegaard Jesper 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background Older patients account for most contacts in general practice. The contacts can be divided into five types: Face-to-face, telephone, e-mail, home visits, and chronic care reviews. Variations in contact types and frequencies across general practices can be caused by differences in patient populations, local circumstances, and individual preferences.
This study aims to analyse how patient and general practice characteristics are associated with the frequency of consultation types in general practice for older patients as well as to analyse variation in consultation frequency.
Methods Register-based nationwide cohort study of all Danish citizens aged ≥75 years in 2017-2021. The practices’ frequencies of daytime consultations were analysed using zero-inflated Poisson regression adjusted for patient population characteristics. Funnel plots were used to assess variation in daytime consultations.
Results Danish general practices had on average 10 total annual consultations per citizen aged ≥75 years, comprising 3.7 face-to-face-, 3.3 telephone-, 2.2 e-mail consultations, 0.61 home visits, and 0.38 chronic care reviews. The largest total numbers of consultations were found for patients with 10+ unique drugs, high use of home healthcare services, nursing home residency, and high multimorbidity. Non-western ethnicity was associated with fewer consultations and non-attendance. Nine percent of general practices showed larger variation in total annual consultations than could be explained by chance after adjusting for patient factors.
Conclusion Age, multimorbidity, and polypharmacy were key drivers of consultation frequency. Nine percent of general practices provide more or fewer yearly consultations than expected based on population characteristics.
Trial registration The study is based on a published protocol July 27, 2023: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2023-073229
Advancing Porphyra linearis (Rhodophyta, Bangiales) culture: low cost artificial seawater, nitrate supply, photosynthetic activity and energy dissipation
Authors: Pereira Débora Tomazi , Korbee Nathalie , Vega Julia , Figueroa Félix L. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Fertilizer use in agriculture and aquaculture significantly contributes to nitrate-rich effluent discharge into aquatic environments. Porphyra's high surface area/volume enables efficient nutrient assimilation. This study aimed to identify a cost-effective, efficient artificial seawater medium for Porphyra linearis cultivation and determine the optimal nitrate concentration to enhance photosynthetic activity. P. linearis was grown in three different salt media, with photosynthetic and biochemical parameters assessed, showing no differences. The nitrate experiment (7 days) using low-cost salt and varied concentration (0 to 6.5 mM) revealed optimal nitrate uptake at 3 and 5 mM, while 6.5 mM indicated saturation/toxicity. The phycobiliproteins contents did not increase compared to the 0 mM, but exhibited greater functionality, as evidenced by the enhanced photosynthetic parameters. Chlorophyll a peaked in 3 mM, whereas lutein and β-carotene in 0 and 3 mM. The thalli turned greenish and appeared to have degraded branches under 0 mM. Growth rate was the same under all nitrate concentration and higher than under 0 mM. The presence of nitrate increased ETRin situ and ETRmax, whereas the absence decreased the range between optimal irradiance for photoinhibition (EoptETR) and saturated irradiance for photosynthesis (EkETR) and between saturated irradiance for non-photochemical quenching (EkNPQ) and EkETR, suggesting that under more nitrate available the algae dissipate less energy. P. linearis showed a wide range of nitrate use without variation in pigment composition in contrast to photosynthetic capacity. The 1.5 and 3 mM in cultivation significantly enhance the photosynthetic response of P. linearis, supporting their potential application in IMTA and bioremediation.
A Place of Encounter: Health and Social Care Workers' Perspectives on Public Gathering Spaces for People Using Drugs
Authors: Bjønness Stig , Lie Amalie Jøntvedt , Grønnestad Trond 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
In the context of addressing substance use issues in urban areas, public gathering places for individuals who use drugs play a multifaceted role, serving as sites of belonging, support, and potential criminal activity. As these gathering places, often referred to as open drug scenes, are associated with drug dealing, violence, and harm, numerous attempts to close or control them by law enforcement have been made, resulting in increased violence, stigma, and risk of overdoses. This qualitative study explores the experiences of health and social workers regarding a public gathering place, referred to as “the Bench,” in a medium-sized Norwegian city. Through semi-structured interviews with thirteen participants representing various support agencies, four thematic areas emerged: 1) Belonging and a gateway to support and services, 2) Balancing user autonomy at the Bench and systems support, 3) The role of a centralized location, and 4) The preventive role of support workers at the Bench. While the Bench fosters a sense of community and provides access to vital services, concerns about illicit activities persist due to its visibility. Nevertheless, its central location facilitates outreach efforts and ensures easy access to support services. The study underscores the preventive role of healthcare and social workers in stabilizing the environment and mitigating conflicts. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of central locations for public gathering places, emphasizing the proximity to low-threshold services for overdose prevention. Despite some challenges, the Bench represents a crucial venue for establishing relationships and providing assistance to individuals who use drugs, contributing to harm reduction efforts in the community.
Intelligent Tourism for a Fragile Ecosystem: Promoting Sustainability in the Santurbán Paramo with Industry 4.0
Authors: Flórez Marco , Carrillo Eduardo , Linares Jhon , Mendes Francisco 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The Paramo de Santurbán in Colombia, a unique ecosystem, is under threat from mining activities and the challenge of sustainable water management. This study investigates tourism as a potential solution, highlighting the importance of understanding tourism stakeholders' impact on the ecosystem's sustainable development. Utilizing the MACTOR software, the analysis included a wide range of stakeholders—thematic experts, tourism entrepreneurs, and governance professionals. Findings indicate that various stakeholders, notably the government, local communities, and tourism entrepreneurs, significantly influence the Paramo. The government is crucial in ensuring tourism's sustainability through regulation, whereas local communities, although benefiting from tourism, require protection against its potential negative impacts. These insights are instrumental for strategic tourism planning and promotion in the Santurbán Paramo, guiding decision-makers towards sustainable ecosystem management.
Hybrid lignin-silica as a green adsorbent towards methylene blue in batch and fixed-bed column
Authors: Pham Co D. , Tran Khoi D. , Le Phung K. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The number of research regarding the ‘lignin-silica complex first’ approach focusing on the synthesis of a long polymer with SiO2 distributed on the surface has been increasing significantly in recent years. Despite being considered an abundant source for the recovery of this hybrid, black liquor has not been widely employed in the synthesis of lignin/silica-derived materials. In order to propose a solution to utilize the waste liquid from the cellulose production process instead of current synthesized silica-containing compounds in the synthesis of highly effective materials for environmental treatment, this study aims to produce a lignin-silica hybrid (LS) from black liquor generated from rice straw alkaline treatment via sol-gel process. The difference in the material characteristics determined by XRF, FT-IR, SEM, and isothermal nitrogen adsorption at 77K led to the different capacities in methylene blue (MB) adsorption. The SiO2 content in the material increased with respect to pH value, which resulted in a higher specific surface area (SBET). Specifically, the greater SBET belonged to LS recovered at pH = 9 (LS9) with a value of 166.5 m2/g. Additionally, the presence of numerous negatively charged groups (i.e., COO−, OH) and silanol in the LS structure resulted in a strong affinity towards MB, a cationic dye. LS9 exhibited a better performance in MB removal with a capacity of nearly 50 mg/g in comparison with the value of LS7, which was around 45 mg/g. Along with the proposed adsorption mechanism, kinetic adsorption, isothermal adsorption, and fixed-bed column adsorption were also investigated to interpret the adsorption processes.
Estimating drinking water turbidity using images collected by a smartphone camera
Authors: Jantarakasem Chotiwat , Sioné Laure , Templeton Michael R. 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT
The lack of robust water quality data in drinking water services in many low-income settings can be attributed to inadequate funding for regular monitoring using analytical equipment. Turbidity is an indicator that is relatively quick and easy to measure; however, it still requires a turbidimeter and a trained operator. This study developed an entire smartphone camera-based application to measure turbidity in drinking water, removing both the need for external equipment and skilled labour. The application was created using a convolutional neural network, able to classify water samples into eight turbidity bins ranging from 0 to 40 NTU. The turbidity of the samples was created using formazine and kaolin clay suspensions. The in-built camera of a smartphone was used to capture images of water samples with known turbidity values. This algorithm was then embedded in a smartphone application, thereby providing an easy-to-use tool for users to estimate turbidity. Specifically, the protocol for using this application was developed with the intention that it will be used in low-resource settings by laypersons. Formazine samples achieved a turbidity classification accuracy of 98.7%, while kaolin clay samples achieved 90.9% accuracy using this method, which provides an encouraging proof of concept, as justification for further testing and improvements.