bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Investigating the effect of novel flushing parameters in RT-RW-EDM of Al-SiCmicro-SiCnano hybrid composite using ANN and PSO.
Authors: Arif Umair , Khan Imtiaz Ali , hasan Faisal 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a novel variant of electrical discharge machining (EDM) called Rotary tool-Rotary workpiece EDM (RT-RW-EDM), (along one axis) which enhances the flushing conditions during the machining process. The study focuses on investigating the effects of tool rotation, workpiece rotation, and tool shape as process parameters on material removal rate (MRR), tool wear rate (TWR) and Surface roughness (SR). A full factorial L27 orthogonal array for the design of experiments. Copper tool and Al-10%SiCmicro-2%SiCnano workpiece were used. 27 workpiece samples were prepared by powder metallurgy. The results showed that tool rotation had a significant impact on MRR and TWR and was the most contributing factor in MRR and TWR while the second most contributing factor in surface roughness (SR). The best MRR and minimum TWR were achieved at zero rpm tool rotation, while the minimum SR was observed at 500 rpm tool rotation. Workpiece rotation was the second-best contributing parameter affecting MRR, TWR, and the least contributing parameter for SR. The best MRR and minimum SR were achieved at 800 rpm of workpiece rotation, while the minimum TWR was observed at 900 rpm of workpiece rotation. Tool shape was found to be the least contributing factor in both MRR and TWR but the most contributing factor in SR. The slotted shaped tool provided the highest MRR, simple shaped tool provided the lowest TWR, and the least SR. Additionally, the interaction between tool rotation and workpiece rotation was found to be the most contributing factor for MRR. The study used artificial neural networks (ANN) and particle swarm optimization for predictive modelling and optimization of the results. The desirability function analysis showed that the best performance measures in terms of max MRR, minimum TWR, and SR were obtained at 500 rpm of tool rotation, 900 rpm of workpiece rotation, and slotted tool shape. This research contributes to the development of EDM and highlights the importance of flushing parameters in achieving optimal machining conditions.
Reducing the risks associated with the ingestion of vegetables grown on soils contaminated with trace metal elements through the application of soil amendments: Results of experiments in Lubumbashi/Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Authors: Katebe Félicien Mununga , Colinet Gilles , Kyalamakasa Jean-Marc Kaumbu , Mubemba Michel Mpundu , Jijakli M. Haïssam 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The expansion of mining companies in the province of Haut-Katanga in general, and in the city of Lubumbashi in particular, is one of the main causes of the very worrying environmental problems facing the city's inhabitants. These problems include contamination of agricultural and residential soils, river and well water, the atmosphere and vegetables. This study evaluates the effectiveness of organocalcareous soil improvers applied to heavy metal-contaminated soils in reducing the mobility and bioavailability of heavy metals. Trials were conducted under glass at the Faculty of Agronomic Sciences, University of Lubumbashi, using a randomized factorial design with four replications. Treatments included four plant species (Brassica chinensis, Amaranthus vulgaris, Beta vulgaris and Brassica carinata), five levels of amendment (D0: no amendment; D1: 150g sawdust; D2: 150g chicken droppings; D3: 75g sawdust and 15g agricultural lime; D4: 75g chicken droppings and 15g agricultural lime), and three types of urban market gardens (Chem-chem; Manoah Kinsevere and Kashamata). The results reveal that the soil and plant biomass of four vegetables are contaminated with metals, with the daily consumption index of vegetables produced on the soils of the Kashamata garden with low copper contamination exceeding the limits authorized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) for daily vegetable consumption for a person of 60 kilograms body weight. The daily consumption index was not determined due to insufficient biomass linked to high soil contamination, inhibiting plant growth for the market gardens of Manoah Kinsevere and Chem-Chem, soils moderately and highly contaminated with copper, respectively. However, these vegetables remain unfit for human consumption, underlining the need to adopt new soilless production techniques such as conventional hydroponics or bioponics in areas heavily impacted by anthropogenic activities.
Energy Partitioning in Global Marine Sedimentation: Tidal, Geothermal, and Solar Radiation Contributions
Authors: Gao Shu 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Earth surface sedimentary processes involve the conversion of energy from tidal friction, geothermal heat release, and solar radiation. However, the net power consumption by sediment dynamic processes has received little attention, despite its relevance to the scale and evolution of sedimentary systems. This study aims to integrate the production rates and net power information, associated with rock weathering, biogenic sedimentation (organic particle, biogenic reef, and carbonate detrital sedimentation), continental shelf and coastal sedimentation (estuary and delta, sandy and gravel beach, and tidal flat sedimentation), and deep-sea sedimentation (sediment gravity flow, contour current, and pelagic-hemipelagic sedimentation). The results indicate that, although the oceans currently contain more than half of the global sediment mass, the net power consumed by various sedimentation processes represents only a minute fraction of the total power from their respective energy sources. This can be explained by macroscopic patterns of energy balance, limitations imposed by rock weathering and ecosystem spatial constraints, and the time scales of sedimentary cycling. Moreover, the total volume and temporal evolution of Earth's sediment are controlled by sediment production and removal processes, with the sedimentary record likely reaching its maximum extent, and the majority of sedimentary records having disappeared from surface environments. These analyses highlight a series of scientific questions that require further investigation, such as the energy conversion processes of weathering and biogenic activities, variations and adjustability of sedimentation power budgets, and changes in the completeness of sedimentary records over time.
Prognostic Significance of Disulfidptosis-Related Gene DSTN in Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma: Correlation with Immune Cell Infiltration and Cancer Stemness
Authors: Shangguan Zuifei , Yao Yimin , Chen Jiale , chen Ping , Shi Na , Ying Xue , Chen Tingting 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Backgrounds
Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) is a highly metastatic cancer that shows resistance to traditional chemoradiotherapy. Disulfidptosis, a newly discovered mechanism of cell death in malignancies, involves the accumulation of intracellular disulfides, leading to rapid cell demise. Identifying disulfidptosis-related genes (DRGs) in KIRC can provide novel treatment strategies for patients with this disease.
Methods
The 15 DRGs and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) obtained from the KIRC-TCGA database were intersected to identify overlapping genes, and a prognostic model was constructed using Lasso regression analysis. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis were conducted to identify independent prognostic factors associated with disulfidptosis. Kaplan-Meier (KM) survival curve was used for prognostic analysis. Co-expression analysis was performed between the screened DRGs and other DRGs to investigate their correlation. The samples in KIRC-TCGA were grouped based on the selected DRGs, and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) as well as immune infiltration analysis were performed. Tumor stemness analysis was conducted using the OCLR algorithm, and correlation analysis between the independent prognostic DRGs and the inhibitory concentration 50% (IC50) of Pazopanib and Sorafenib was performed using ridge regression.
Results
Univariate and multivariate regression analysis indicated that DSTN and FLNA may serve as independent prognostic DRGs for KIRC. In the KIRC-TCGA, FLNA expression was higher in tumor tissues compared with adjacent tissues, whereas DSTN expression was lower in tumor tissues than in adjacent tissues (P < 0.05). KM survival curve demonstrated that high expression of DSTN and FLNA correlated with a higher survival rate. Co-expression analysis revealed positive correlations between DSTN and the expression of FLNA, MYH9, TLN1, MYL6, MYH10, IQGAP1, and CD2AP. Immune infiltration analysis showed that DSTN was positively correlated with endothelial cell infiltration. High expression of DSTN and endothelial cell marker genes were associated with a longer survival period. Correlation analysis revealed a negative correlation between DSTN expression and stemness scores. Additionally, the IC50 values of Pazopanib and Sorafenib showed a high negative correlation with DSTN expression (0.5≤|ρSpearman|<0.8).
Conclusions
DSTN, as a DRG, had been identified as an independent prognostic biomarker in patients with KIRC. Its expression was closely linked to tumor cell stemness and also correlated with the IC50 of commonly used chemotherapy drugs in KIRC. DSTN holded promise as a meaningful prognostic marker and potential therapeutic target for KIRC.
Model Generalizability Considerations in Development and Evaluation of SaMD
Authors: Leng Ning , Lu Yichen , Fridlyand Jane , Tang Tiffany , Qi Nina Ting , Wei Yingying , Sanchez Rodrigo Rojo , Simon Noah , Alexander Gregory 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Software as a Medical Device (SaMD) has been transforming medical practices by improving patient care with more precise and timely information. The key capabilities of SaMD are often enabled by Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms. However, notable challenges have been observed in building robust algorithms in SaMD development and evaluation, where it is not unusual for algorithms to show strong performance in the development phase but poor performance when deployed in pivotal validation study. With rapid development in medical research, data from new trials or the real world are very likely to differ from legacy data used for training in many important aspects. Added caution is thus needed to account for such potential differences. In this paper, we will discuss the pitfalls of using conventional cross- validation methods in SaMD algorithm development and its magnitude of overestimation of model performance when heterogeneity is anticipated. To mitigate against overestimation bias performance assessment, we propose a leave-one-set-out (LOSO) cross validation method and discuss best practices in design of the independent validation pivotal study.
Assessment during clinical education among nursing students using two different assessment instruments.
Authors: Nilsson Tomas , Masiello Italo , Broberger Eva , Lindström Veronica 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background: Assessment of undergraduate students using assessment instruments in the clinical setting is known to be complex. The aim of this study was therefore to examine whether two different assessment instruments, containing learning objectives (LO`s) with similar content, results in similar assessments by the clinical supervisors and to explore clinical supervisors’ experiences of assessment regarding the two different assessment instruments.
Method: A mixed-methods approach was used. Four simulated care encounter scenarios were evaluated by 50 supervisors using two different assessment instruments. 28 follow-up interviews were conducted. Descriptive statistics and logistic binary regression were used for quantitative data analysis, along with qualitative thematic analysis of interview data.
Result: While significant differences were observed within the assessment instruments, the differences were consistent between the two instruments, indicating that the quality of the assessment instruments were considered equivalent. Supervisors noted that the relationship between the students and supervisors could introduce subjectivity in the assessments and that working in groups of supervisors could be advantageous. In terms of formative assessments, the Likert scale was considered a useful tool for evaluating learning objectives. However, supervisors had different views on grading scales and the need for clear definitions. The supervisors concluded that a complicated assessment instrument led to limited very-day usage and did not facilitate formative feedback. Furthermore, supervisors discussed how their experiences influenced the use of the assessment instruments, which resulted in different descriptions of the experience. These differences led to a discussion of the need of supervisor teams to enhance the validity of assessments.
Conclusion: The findings showed that there were no significant differences in pass/fail gradings using the two different assessment instruments. The quantitative data suggests that supervisors struggled with subjectivity, phrasing, and definitions of the LO´s and the scales used in both instruments. This resulted in arbitrary assessments that were time-consuming and resulted in limited usage in the day-to-day assessment. To mitigate the subjectivity, supervisors suggested working in teams and conducting multiple assessments over time to increase assessment validity.
High-precision all-in-one dual robotic arm strategy in oral implant surgery
Authors: Sun Meng , Tang Gang , Liu Shibo , Wang Yide , Zhu Weidong , Wang Dongmei , Li Xiang , Wu Hao , Men Shaoyang , Zhang Liangbin , Feng Changfen , Wang Yingfu , Ding Yuehua 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Dental implantation has emerged as an efficient substitute for missing teeth, which is essential for restoring oral function and aesthetics. Compared to traditional denture repair approaches, dental implants offer better stability and sustainability. The position, angle, and depth of dental implants are crucial factors for their long-term success and necessitate high-precision operation and technical support. We propose an integrated dual-arm high-precision dental implant robot and a corresponding control strategy. Compared with traditional implant robots, the integrated dual-arm design greatly shortens the preparation time before surgery and simplifies the operation process. We propose a novel control flow and module for the proposed structure, including an Occluded Target Tracking Module (OTTM), a Planting Plan Development Module (PPDM), and a Path Formulation Module (PFM). Under the coordinated control of the aforementioned modules, the robot achieved excellent accuracy in clinical trials. The average angular error and entry point error for five patients who underwent implant surgery using the proposed robot were 2.1 degrees and 0.39 millimeters, respectively.
Association Between Life's Essential 8 and Cognitive Function Among US Older Adults
Authors: Zhu Huaxin , Zhou Wu , Tan Jiacong , Zeng Yanyang , Li Meihua , Liu Zheng 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
The American Heart Association(AHA) recently redefined cardiovascular health(CVH) with the introduction of Life's Essential 8(LE8). This study explores the relationships between both the aggregate and individual CVH metrics, as defined by Life's Essential 8, and cognitive function in older adults in the United States.
Methods
This cross-sectional, population-based study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2011 and 2014, focusing on individuals aged 60 years and older. CVH was categorized as low(0–49), moderate(50–79), or high(80–100). Cognitive function was assessed through the CERAD tests, Animal Fluency test, and Digit Symbol Substitution test. Multivariable logistic models and restricted cubic spline models were employed to investigate these associations.
Results
This study included a total of 2,279 older adults in the United States. Only 11% of adults achieved a high total CVH score, while 12% had a low score. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, higher LE8 scores were significantly associated with higher scores on CERAD: delayed recall score(0.02[0.01, 0.03]; P < 0.001), CERAD: total score(3 recall trials)(0.04[0.02, 0.06]; P < 0.001), animal fluency: total score(0.09[0.05, 0.12]; P < 0.001), and digit symbol: score(0.29[0.18, 0.41]; P < 0.001), demonstrating a linear dose-response relationship. Similar patterns were also observed in the associations between health behavior and health factor scores with cognitive function tests.
Conclusion
LE8 scores exhibited positive linear associations with cognitive function. Promoting adherence to optimal CVH levels may prove beneficial in maintaining higher levels of cognitive function in older adults in the United States.
Exploring the chemical properties and microstructural characterisations of hybrid asphalt binders for enhanced performance
Authors: Sani Wan Noor Hin Mior , Jaya Ramadhansyah Putra , Masri Khairil Azman , Saptaji Kushendarsyah , Dulaimi Anmar 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Approximately 3 billion metric tonnes of garbage involving industrial and agricultural waste is expected to be generated by 2030, posing a significant environmental hazard. Notably, recycling or reusing asphalt modification components (palm oil fuel ash (POFA), garnet waste, and sawdust) in pavement construction encounter ongoing challenges. This study comprehensively assessed the chemical characteristics and microstructure analysis of individual wastes and various hybrid asphalt binder mixtures incorporated with these components. The mixture consisted of asphalt grade 60/70 blended with varying amounts (0%, 3%, 6%, and 9%) of POFA, garnet waste, and sawdust. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses were also employed to examine the chemical compositions of the raw waste materials. Meanwhile, the microstructure properties of various hybrid asphalt binder mixtures were analysed utilising Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Consequently, this study presented that the correlation between the 6% POFA, 6% garnet waste, and 6% sawdust substantially impacted the chemical composition and morphology of the mixture. The findings of this study demonstrated that including POFA, garnet waste, and sawdust in a hybrid asphalt binder mixture could enhance performance and engineering properties.
Differential Gene Expression in the Kidneys of SHR and WKY rats after Intravenous Administration of Akkermansia muciniphila-derived Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Olarinoye Zainab Yetunde , Kim Cheong-Wun , Kim Jee Young , Jang Sungmin , Kim Inkyeom 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Although Akkermansia muciniphila (Am) plays a beneficial role as a probiotic in the treatment of metabolic syndrome, the mechanisms remain elusive. We tested the hypothesis that Am extracellular vesicles (AmEVs) protect against hypertension through modulation of gene expression in the kidneys of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Extracellular vesicles purified from anaerobically cultured Am (1.0×108 or 1.0×109 particles/kg) or vehicles were injected into the tail veins of Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKYs) and SHRs weekly for 4 weeks. Renal cortical tissues isolated from both rat strains were analyzed by trichrome stain and RT-qPCR. AmEVs protect against the development of hypertension in SHRs without a serious adverse reaction. AmEVs increased the expression of vasocontractory Agt and At1ar as well as vasodilatory At2r, Mas1 and Nos2 in the kidneys of both strains. These results indicate that AmEVs have a protective effect against hypertension without a serious adverse reaction. Therefore, it is foreseen that AmEVs may be utilized as a novel therapeutic for the treatment of hypertension.
On optimizing resource allocation: A comparative performance evaluation of resource allocation strategies in 5G
Authors: Dobruna Jeta , Fazliu Zana Limani , Humar Iztok , Volk Mojca 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Resource allocation continues to be a challenging issue in communication networks and its complexity is continuously increasing with the densification of the networks. Resource allocation strategies are numerous and varied, and the goal is to improve any or a number of targets, such as spectral and energy efficiency and overall throughput, among others. In this paper, selected algorithms for resource allocation in wireless communication networks are analyzed and simulations are executed to compare and highlight the importance of the way the resource algorithms are implemented to achieve efficient usage of the available spectrum. In addition, the performance of selected algorithms is evaluated in a multi-cell heterogeneous network and compared to eICIC, a widely-used interference mitigation technique used by communication networks. The results suggest that there is no single algorithm that visibly outperforms other candidates in terms of all performance criteria. Instead, their efficiency is always a consequence of a strategic choice of goals, and the targeted parameters are optimized at a price. Thus, the development and implementation of resource allocation algorithms must follow concrete usage scenarios and needs of the network and depend heavily on network performance requirements and parameters criteria.
A diagnostic dilemma: distinguishing a sulfasalazine induced DRESS hypersensitivity syndrome from a CD30+ lymphoma in a young patient.
Authors: Aleksandrova Natalija , De Rop Jonas , Camu Frederic , Hubloue Ives , Devue Katleen 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is a severe hypersensitivity reaction characterized by cutaneous rash, lymphadenopathy, fever, eosinophilia, leukocytosis, and life-threatening organ dysfunctions. We describe the case of a patient admitted to the Emergency Department for DRESS syndrome after sulfasalazine treatment for rheumatoid arthritis in the right knee. Whole body computer tomography showed multiple neck, chest, and abdominal lymphadenopathy with splenomegaly, massive ascites and severe hepatic cytolysis. Serology results for Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), influenza, measles, rubella, hepatitis A and B were negative. The histologic analysis of skin, lymph node and bone marrow biopsies could not indicate a classical Morbus Hodgkin or iatrogenic immunodeficiency/EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disorder (LPD), Hodgkin type. The relatively small caliber of the CD30 + immunoreactive blastoid cells in the lymph nodes suggested reactive immunoblasts rather than Hodgkin cells. The morphologic aspects of the lymph node biopsies with predominance of T-cells were compatible with the diagnosis of a sulfasalazine-induced DRESS syndrome as the patient had a high RegiSCAR score for DRESS. [1] The patient's complex clinical course, marked by two hospital admissions, highlights the challenges in diagnosing and managing DRESS. This case underscores the need for individualized care, close patient monitoring, and further research to better understand DRESS's underlying mechanisms and optimal therapeutic strategies.