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This document is a reply to a comment on a study about the radiological outcomes of magnetically controlled growing rods (MCGRs) for the treatment of early-onset scoliosis in children. The authors express gratitude for the interest in their study and acknowledge the scrutiny it has received. They discuss the methodology of their study and the analysis of the outcomes, emphasizing the efficacy of MCGRs in achieving satisfactory radiological and clinical results. They also provide radiological statistics of patients treated with MCGRs and discuss the potential limitations and complications of the treatment. Overall, the authors hope that their findings will contribute to advancements in the surgical management of early-onset scoliosis.The given text provides data on various measurements related to thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis in patients before and after graduation surgery. The measurements include the mean and standard deviation of thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis at different stages, as well as comparisons between preoperative and postoperative measurements. The data suggests that there are significant differences in these measurements before and after surgery. However, further analysis is needed to understand the specific implications of these findings.The document provides a table of statistical data related to a study on the correction of spinal deformities. The data includes measurements of preoperative height, length of distraction phase, number of lengthenings per year, and growth rates at different spinal levels. The study was conducted by Pawel Grabala, Munish C. Gupta, Daniel E. Pere [Extracted from the article]

Cryogenic cooling has gathered significant attention in the manufacturing industry. There are inherent difficulties in machining materials that are difficult to machine because of high levels of hardness, abrasiveness, and heat conductivity. Increased tool wear, diminished surface finish, and reduced machining efficiency are the results of these problems, and traditional cooling solutions are insufficient to resolve them. The application of cryogenic cooling involves the use of extremely low temperatures, typically achieved by employing liquid nitrogen or other cryogenic fluids. This study reviews the current state of cryogenic cooling technology and its use in machining difficult-to-machine materials. In addition, this review encompasses a thorough examination of cryogenic cooling techniques, including their principles, mechanisms, and effects on machining performance. The recent literature was used to discuss difficult-to-machine materials and their machining properties. The role of cryogenic cooling in machining difficult materials was then discussed. Finally, the latest technologies and methods involved in cryogenic cooling condition were discussed in detail. The outcome demonstrated that the exploration of cryogenic cooling methods has gained prominence in the manufacturing industry due to their potential to address challenges associated with the machining of exotic alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predicting a component's fatigue life requires information on not only the number of stress cycles the component will undergo but also the kind and frequency of those stress cycles, as well as information about the surrounding environment and the intended purpose of the component. Models that can forecast lifespan by utilizing available experimental data are preferred since fatigue investigations are costly and time-consuming. Therefore, this work focuses on fatigue testing of S355 mild steel specimens under multiaxial loading conditions involving bending and torsion. The impact of phase-shifted loading conditions on material behavior, considering in-phase and with angles 0°, 45°, and 90°, has been studied. Then, the data of fatigue tests involve variations in loading amplitudes, and configurations used in different ML algorithms such as lazy k-nearest neighbors (Lazy-KNN), linear regression (LR), and random forest (RF) were employed for predictive modeling. These models are evaluated based on their ability to predict nominal stresses, torsion, and bending moments under varying loading configurations. The predictive modeling results are visually presented, showcasing the effectiveness of Lazy-KNN in accurately predicting material responses. Quantitative analyses further confirm the robustness of Lazy-KNN in predicting bending, nominal stress, and torsion under different loading conditions. The study provides valuable insights into the fatigue behavior of S355 mild steel and highlights the significance of considering multiaxial loading configurations in material testing and design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Erosion caused by water droplets is constantly in flux for practical and fundamental reasons. Due to the high accumulation of knowledge in this area, it is already possible to predict erosion development in practical scenarios. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to use machine learning models to predict the erosion action caused by the multiple impacts of water droplets on ductile materials. The droplets were generated by using an ultrasonically excited pulsating water jet at pressures of 20 and 30 MPa for individual erosion time intervals from 1 to 20 s. The study was performed on two materials, i.e. AW-6060 aluminium alloy and AISI 304 stainless steel, to understand the role of different materials in droplet erosion. Erosion depth, width and volume removal were considered as responses with which to characterise the erosion evolution. The actual experimental response data were measured using a non-contact optical method, which was then used to train the prediction models. A high prediction accuracy between the predicted and observed data was obtained. With this approach, the erosion resistance of the material can be predicted, and, furthermore, the prediction of the progress from the incubation erosion stage to the terminal erosion stage can also be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The management of spinal deformities diagnosed before the age of 10 is critical due to the child's development, skeletal system, and growth mechanism. Magnetically controlled growing rods (MCGRs) are a surgical treatment option for the growing spine. The aim of this study was to analyze the radiological findings of patients treated with MCGRs for early-onset scoliosis (EOS) of various etiologies. We hypothesized that the MCGRs could provide acceptable long-term radiographic results, such as an increase in the T1–T12 and T1–S1 height and significant overall deformity correction. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 161 EOS patients with a combined total of 302 MCGRs inserted at five institutions between 2016 and 2022 with a mean follow-up of at least two years. The Cobb angle of the major curve (MC), thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), and T1–T12 and T1–S1 height measurements were assessed before, after, and during the follow-up. Results: Among the 90 female and 71 male patients, there were 51 neurological, 42 syndromic, 58 idiopathic, and ten congenital scoliosis etiologies. Of the patients, 73 were aged under six years old. The mean follow-up time was 32.8 months. The mean age at placement of the MCGRs was 7 years and that at the last follow-up after fusion surgery was 14.5 years. The mean MC before the initial surgery was 86.2°; following rod implantation, it was 46.9°, and at the last follow-up visit, it was 45.8°. The mean correction rate among the etiology subgroups was from 43% to 50% at follow-up. The mean TK was noted as 47.2° before MCGR implantation, 47.1° after MCGR placement, and 44.5° at the last follow-up visit. The mean T1–T12 height increased by 5.95 mm per year, with a mean T1–S1 height of 10.1 mm per year. Conclusions: MCGR treatment allowed for an average correction of the curvature by 50% during the period of lengthening, while controlling any deformity and growth of the spine, with a significant increase in the T1–T12 and T1–S1 values during the observation period. MCGR treatment in EOS carries a risk of complications. While congenital and syndromic EOS often have short and less flexible curves in those groups of patients, single rods can be as effective and safe. Definitive fusion results in the mean final coronal correction between the start of MCGR treatment and after undergoing PSF of approximately 70%. The mean T1–T12 spinal height increased by 75 mm, while the T1–S1 spinal height gained a mean of 97 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the demand of hybrid nanofluids (HNFs) is growing due to their quintessential thermo-physical properties (TPP) and good stability. In this work, nano-diamond (ND) (<10 nm) and nano-alumina (Al2O3) (<80 nm) based mono and HNFs are taken in to consideration. Good thermal conductivity (TC) of ND particles and good physical properties of Al2O3 particles combine to form better HNF when dispersed in water. In-depth and critical experimental investigation has been conducted on TPP and stability analysis of nanofluids. Particle characterization is performed with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) assisted with energy dispersive analysis of X-rays (EDAX). Two-step method is employed for constructing Al2O3/water, ND/water, ND-Al2O3/water nanofluids at different weight fractions (0.01–0.3 wt.%). KD2 Pro TC analyzer and Anton Paar MCR 302e rheometer are used for determining TC and viscosity of nanofluids, respectively. The maximum enhancement of 4.2%, 16.93%, and 22.93% are observed in TC at 80 °C for 0.3 wt.% of Al2O3/water, ND-Al2O3/water, and ND/water nanofluids, respectively in comparison with that of distilled water. Correlations are developed for TC and viscosity and compared with experimental values. For evaluating stability of nanofluids, three methods applied such as visual inspection, UV–vis spectroscopy, and zeta-potential (ZP) are used. Stability period of nanofluids represented as ND/water (55 days) > ND-Al2O3/water (45 days) > Al2O3/water (30 days). Both TPP and stability enhanced for ND-Al2O3/water (hybrid) nanofluid compared to Al2O3/water (mono) nanofluid, thus used in various thermo-fluidic industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design. Prospective multicenter cohort study. Objective. To evaluate perioperative complications and mid-term outcomes for severe pediatric spinal deformity. Summary of Background Data. Few studies have evaluated the impact of complications on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes in severe pediatric spinal deformity. Methods. Patients from a prospective, multicenter database with severe pediatric spinal deformity (minimum of 100 degree curve in any plane or planned vertebral column resection (VCR)) with a minimum of 2-years follow-up were evaluated (n = 231). SRS-22r scores were collected preoperatively and at 2-years postoperatively. Complications were categorized as intraoperative, early postoperative (within 90-days of surgery), major, or minor. Perioperative complication rate was evaluated between patients with and without VCR. Additionally, SRS-22r scores were compared between patients with and without complications. Results. Perioperative complications occurred in 135 (58%) patients, and major complications occurred in 53 (23%) patients. Patients that underwent VCR had a higher incidence of early postoperative complications than patients without VCR (28.9% vs. 16.2%, P = 0.02). Complications resolved in 126/135 (93.3%) patients with a mean time to resolution of 91.63 days. Unresolved major complications included motor deficit (n = 4), spinal cord deficit (n = 1), nerve root deficit (n = 1), compartment syndrome (n = 1), and motor weakness due to recurrent intradural tumor (n = 1). Patients with complications, major complications, or multiple complications had equivalent postoperative SRS-22r scores. Patients with motor deficits had lower postoperative satisfaction subscore (4.32 vs. 4.51, P = 0.03), but patients with resolved motor deficits had equivalent postoperative scores in all domains. Patients with unresolved complications had lower postoperative satisfaction subscore (3.94 vs. 4.47, P = 0.03) and less postoperative improvement in self-image subscore (0.64 vs. 1.42, P = 0.03) as compared to patients with resolved complications. Conclusion. Most perioperative complications for severe pediatric spinal deformity resolve within 2-years postoperatively and do not result in adverse HRQoL outcomes. However, patients with unresolved complications have decreased HRQoL outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particularly in sectors where mechanisation is increasing, there has been persistent effort to maximise the use of existing assets. Since maintenance management is accountable for the accessibility of assets, it stands to acquire prominence in this setting. One of the most common methods for keeping equipment in good working order is predictive maintenance with machine learning methods. Failures can be spotted before they cause any downtime or extra expenses, and with this aim, the present work deals with the online detection of wear and friction characteristics of stainless steel 316L under lubricating conditions with machine learning models. Wear rate and friction forces were taken into account as reaction parameters, and biomedical-graded stainless steel 316L was chosen as the work material. With more testing, the J48 method's accuracy improves to 100% in low wear conditions and 99.27% in heavy wear situations. In addition, the graphic showed the accuracy values for several models. The J48 model is the most precise amongst all others, with a value of 100% (minimum wear) and an average of 98.92% (higher wear). Amongst all the models tested under varying machining conditions, the J48's 98.92% (low wear) and 98.92% (high wear) recall scores stand out as very impressive (higher wear). In terms of F1-score, J48 performs better than any competing model at 99.45% (low wear) and 98.92% (higher wear). As a result, the J48 improves the model's overall performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on the AAP National Conference and Exhibition (NCE) in Orlando from September 27-30, 2024.

Background: Echocardiography is used to assess cardiac parameters. Altered parameters can affect the morbidity in patients of hypothyroidism so echocardiography can be used to assess morbidity in such cases. Aims and Objective: To measure cardiac functions in patients of hypothyroidism and to correlate cardiac functions with euthyroid state. Material and Methods: The study conducted at M.M.I.M.S.R, Mullana. Ambala. Fifty individuals were included in the study out of them 25 were cases and 25 were control. The patients were taken from both from OPD and Indoor wards of department of Medicine. The patients were studied during October 2014 to December 2016. All the patients were scrutinized and investigated as per the plan. All were subjected to evaluation by echocardiography. Results: In our study there was significant increase in left ventricular mass with preserved left ventricular systolic function. Conclusion: Echocardiography can be used as a sensitive tool to assess morbidity associated with hypothyroidism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on several announcements and updates from the Society of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine (SONPM) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Topics include the PAS Neonatology Sessions, the Silverman Lecture, and the NICU Follow-Up Club at the AAP National Conference & Exhibition (NCE), the AAP Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Excellence Award, and the call for nominations for the AAP Representative for the ACGME Pediatric Review Committee.

The article focuses on opportunities for neonatal professionals to present their work at upcoming conferences and events, including the AAP National Conference and Exhibition and the AAP Advocacy Conference, with opportunities for awards and scholarships. It discusses the gathering of information on neonatology-related sessions at the Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) meeting for future sharing.

The material steadily wears away from touching surfaces when two solid entities are constantly moving against one other. When more parameters and extreme materials are involved in tribological testing, then it is very difficult to analyze and observe the working phenomena. With this aim, this study uses the gaussian process regression (GPR) approach to estimate friction forces when testing SS 316 L against 100 Cr6 alloy under cryogenic and cryo + minimum amount lubrication conditions. The friction forces from ball-on test experiments were used to develop the prediction models. Then, the wear surfaces and surface morphology are analyzed under cryo and cryo+MQL conditions. The results demonstrated that the combination of MQL and CRYO cooling reduced the friction forces more than 10 times for sliding distances above ∼30 m and loads below ∼25 n. Hence, the cryo+MQL conditions are beneficial in enhancing the tribological features due to the dual cooling and lubricating effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information technology applications are crucial to the proper utilization of manufacturing equipment in the new industrial age, i.e., Industry 4.0. There are certain fundamental conditions that users must meet to adapt the manufacturing processes to Industry 4.0. For this, as in the past, there is a major need for modeling and simulation tools in this industrial age. In the creation of industry-driven predictive models for machining processes, substantial progress has recently been made. This paper includes a comprehensive review of predictive performance models for machining (particularly analytical models), as well as a list of existing models' strengths and drawbacks. It contains a review of available modeling tools, as well as their usability and/or limits in the monitoring of industrial machining operations. The goal of process models is to forecast principal variables such as stress, strain, force, and temperature. These factors, however, should be connected to performance outcomes, i.e., product quality and manufacturing efficiency, to be valuable to the industry (dimensional accuracy, surface quality, surface integrity, tool life, energy consumption, etc.). Industry adoption of cutting models depends on a model's ability to make this connection and predict the performance of process outputs. Therefore, this review article organizes and summarizes a variety of critical research themes connected to well-established analytical models for machining processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On-line monitoring of the machining processes provides to detect the amount and type of tool wear which is critical for the determination of remaining useful lifetime of cutting tool. According to Industry 4.0 revolution, the machining performance in terms of cutting forces, surface roughness, power consumptions, tool wear, tool life, etc. needs to be automatically monitored because the unfavorable conditions in machining cause chatter vibrations, tool breakage, and dimensional accuracy. Therefore, the usage of advanced sensor systems plays a key role in achieving the improved machining characteristics in terms of less human effort, errors, production time, etc. and fulfills the requirement of Industry 4.0. Hence, this review presents the holistic knowledge of online detection systems including sensors and signal processing software preferred in mechanical machining operations. Initially, this paper is starting with the up-to-date literature introduction section followed by type of sensors used in machining, online detection methods in machining, challenges and suggestions, etc. Eventually, the article concluded the findings and future remarks especially focused on the theme of Industry 4.0. In the end, it is worthy to mention that this review paper is very helpful for researchers and academicians working in the industrial sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Being easily fabricated, welded, biocompatible, having a high strength-to-weight ratio, withstanding comparatively high temperatures up to 800 °C and low modulus of elasticity make grade titanium and its alloys an important choice for automotive, biomedical and aerospace industries. In contempt of the different pleasant assets of Ti–6Al–4V alloy, the operation of this alloy is restricted especially when it comes to tribological and surface morphological characteristics. Enhancing these properties is important, for this purpose, a diversity of attempts and studies have been conducted. This paper mounts a review of morphological and tribological behaviors of titanium alloys including Ti–6Al–4V against different materials counting with carbide tools and other types of materials under dry and lubricated sliding conditions. The surface morphological, wear, and other properties have been discussed in this review article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nanolubricants' role in friction reduction, wear resistance, and machining efficiency applications is studied. • Lubricants and their properties are revealed. • Nanoparticles types, their basic structure, and their different applications in machining and tribology are discussed. Nanofluids are a unique class of fluids generally prepared by adding nanosized particles to different types of base fluids, such as water, oil, etc. When nanoparticles are added to the base fluids, their thermophysical parameters like viscosity, heat transfer characteristics, and thermal conductivity are improved and provide good results. For this reason, the demand for fluids enriched with nanoparticles has considerably increased in the manufacturing sector. This comprehensive state-of-the-art review covers nanolubricants' role in friction reduction, wear resistance, and machining efficiency applications. Initially, the lubricants and their properties are revealed in the introduction section. Then, the different types of nanoparticles, their basic structure, and their different applications in machining and tribology are portrayed in different sections. In addition, it provides a comprehensive analysis of the difficulties related to nanofluids and their utilization in machining and tribology. Ultimately, this evaluation provides final comments on the latest advancements in both the academic and industrial sectors, as well as a strategy for future expansion. The results indicated that the fluids loaded with nanoparticles had a beneficial effect in lowering friction and temperature at the primary contact zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tool wear is intimately related to intelligent operation and maintenance of automated production, workpiece surface quality, dimension accuracy, and tool life. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the production efficiency and quality by predicting tool wear values. The purpose of this research is to use machine learning and image processing methods in estimating the tool wear values when turning AA7075 aluminum alloy. In addition, the in-depth analysis of cutting tools at different parameters were examined with SEM and EDS analysis. The results shown that there was a 44.40% increase in tool wear when the cutting speed was raised by 100% while feed rates were maintained at the same level. On the other hand, there was a 22.78% increase in tool wear seen when the cutting speed was maintained at the same level. In addition, the difference between the actual values and the image processing model is 3.5%, and the difference between the Multilayer Perception (MLP) model and the linear regression (LR) model is 5% and 7%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grinding is one of the important machining processes that are widely applied in precision manufacturing. In the beginning, studies mostly focused on dry machining. In time, emerging technologies have led to change in the development of the machining process. New techniques and tools have been developed over the last decade that has brought the process to an advanced place. At first, flood cooling has removed the burning problems in the grinding process. After that, a new technique was developed which is known as minimum quantity lubrication (MQL). This technique is a recognized opportunity to eliminate environmental concerns. This paper reviews some of the common as well as advanced MQL systems specifically used in grinding operations. The effect of MQL and other cutting parameters on cutting forces, surface roughness of the machined workpiece, tool wear, temperature, specific cutting energy, and residual stress is outlined. This paper also addressees the recent trend of cooling systems in the grinding process. After reading this research paper, one can easily get an overview of the previously conducted research to find the output parameter trends in MQL condition. The reader can infer from this paper in which direction the development trend in grinding is in the machining process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent step towards "Sustainable Manufacturing (SM)" and efforts to reduce the consumption of cutting fluids have become the hot topic of research these days. Various efforts and strategies have been employed in the modern manufacturing sector to control the environmental pollutions generated from the application of cutting fluids. Therefore, in this holistic work, one such effort of reducing the consumption of cutting fluid is employed with the application of minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) and tool texturing. The turning trials were made on titanium alloy:Ti3Al2.5V alloy under dry and MQL conditions using textured and non-textured tools. The tool life, average surface roughness, specific cutting energy, air quality, and chip morphology were studied with the aid of the above-subjected conditions. In the end, the socio-economic aspects of all cooling conditions were studied and analyzed in the context of sustainable manufacturing. The outcomes of this study reveal that the combination of textured tools and minimum quantity lubrication considerably enhance the machining and sustainability performance as contended with other conditions. However, the air quality factor, i.e., PM2.5 particle generation, was less in the case of a textured tool with MQL conditions. Overall, it is worthy to mention that the combination of tool texturing and MQL cooling conditions has been considered as one of the potential combinations in the area of green machining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Context: Sagittal spinopelvic alignment has been associated with patient-reported outcome measures and mechanical complication rates. Recently, it was claimed that linear numerical values of pelvic tilt and lumbar lordosis measurements may be misleading for patients that have different magnitudes of pelvic incidence. The use of "relative" measurements embedded in a weighted scoring of Global Alignment and Proportion (GAP) was proposed.Purpose: The purpose was to evaluate the GAP scorein an independent database.Study Design/setting: Retrospective Cohort Study PATIENT SAMPLE: Adult spinal deformity patients who underwent ≥7 levels posterior fusion to the pelvis between 2004 and 2014 were included.Outcome Measures: Mechanical Complication Rates.Methods: Demographic, clinical, surgical and radiographic patient characteristics were recorded. Cochran-Armitage tests were used to compare mechanical complication rates in GAP categories. Uni and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to obtain crude and adjusted Odds Ratios, of predictor (GAP categories) and the outcome (mechanical complication), and Risk Ratios were calculated. The diagnostic performance of the GAP score was tested using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy in predicting mechanical complications.Results: A total of 322 patients (285F, 37M) with a mean age of 58.2±9.6 were analyzed. Mean follow-up was 69.7 months (range 24 to 177). Mechanical complications occurred in 52.2% of the patients. Mechanical complication rates in proportioned (GAP-P), moderately (GAP-MD) and severely disproportioned (GAP-SD) patients were 21.8%, 55.1%, and 70.4%, respectively. AUC for the GAP score, at 2 years, was 0.682 (95% CI, 0.624 to 0.741, p<.001). AUC at minimum 5 years follow-up was similar at 0.708, while AUC at minimum 7- and 12-year follow-up were 78.5 and 90.7, respectively. Having a postoperative spinopelvic alignment of GAP-MD and GAP-SD resulted in 2.5 and 3.2 folds of relative risk in incurring a mechanical complication when compared to having a proportioned spinopelvic state, respectively.Conclusions: This study reports an association between the GAP Score and mechanical complications in an independent database. Increased association was noted as the years of follow-up increased. Aiming to achieve proportionate GAP Score postoperatively seems to be a viable option as lower GAP scores were associated with lower rates of mechanical complications, and vice versa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: Multicenter retrospective review of prospective database.Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate potential associations between postoperative alignment and satisfaction.Summary Of Background Data: Achieving high satisfaction is the main goal of any treatment, including adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery. Despite being one of the key elements, literature is sparse regarding postoperative factors influencing patient satisfaction.Methods: ASD patients with 2-year follow-up were retrospectively reviewed. Patients without revision after the index procedure were stratified according to deformity type: sagittal (T1 pelvic angle >22°), coronal (C7 plumb line [C7PL] >5 cm or MaxCobb >50°), or mixed. Bivariate correlation between satisfaction and postoperative data was conducted on the entire cohort as well as by type of preoperative deformity. Multivariate regression controlling for pre-op alignment and demographic information was used to identify independent predictors of 2Y satisfaction.Results: A total of 509 patients were included in the analysis (58.7 ± 14.8, 80% females). The quality of life significantly improved between pre- and 2-year (ΔOswestry Disability Index [ODI]: 17.6, p < 0.001). At 2 years, SRS22 satisfaction was 4.27 ± 0.89 (median 4.5). Significant associations were found between satisfaction and disability (ODI, r = -0.50) and global coronal (C7PL r = -0.15) and sagittal (sagittal vertical axis [SVA], r = -0.10) alignment (all p < 0.01) but not with the coronal clavicle angle. Stratification by preoperative deformity revealed significant associations between satisfaction and SVA for sagittal deformity only, C7PL and MaxCobb for coronal only, and C7PL for combined deformity. In the multivariate analysis controlling for demographic and pre-op deformity, 2-year ODI and 2-year C7PL were independent predictors of satisfaction. Multilinear regression demonstrated 2-year SVA, pre-op ODI and patient's age were the independent predictors 2-year ODI.Conclusion: The ability to restore global alignment depends on the severity of the preoperative deformity as well as the correction of the main aspect of the deformity. Achieving global coronal and sagittal alignment is an independent predictor of both satisfaction and disability at 2 years post-op. Patients who continue to be disabled are also not satisfied.Level of Evidence: 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon fiber–reinforced polymers (CFRPs) are vulnerable to damage locally through machining operations due to an applied cutting force and high-temperature generation. Though traditional lubri-cooling medium will reduce the heat-generated damage of CFRPs, the use of synthetic fluids, however, significantly affects the environment and public health equally. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the milling performance of CFRPs in sustainable lubri-cooling mediums, i.e., dry, minimal lubrication (MQL), cryogenic-liquid nitrogen (N2liquid), and carbon dioxide (CO2ice). Furthermore, the correct choice of process parameters and lubri-cooling environments influences the cutting mechanism in any metal cutting operations. Accordingly, response surface methodology (RSM) is used to create a relationship between responses to machining inputs. In addition, two evolutionary techniques named Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) were used to execute parametric optimization. Eventually, the performances of the adopted approaches are compared in this manuscript, which reveals the prediction made by NSGA-II and PSO is quite consistent with the experimental results. However, in view of convergence characteristics and computational time, the PSO is shown to surpass the NSGA-II approach. Moreover, empirical cumulative distribution–based data analysis indicates that all responses are good compatible with the function of the normal distribution. At the 95% confidence level, the established ANOVA models were found to be substantial. Furthermore, lubri-cooling medium was the most critical factor affecting the response parameters with a 49% contribution in minimizing Fr, 46% contribution in decreasing VB, 38.89% contribution in Ra, and 50.21% contribution in reducing the T value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technological developments are continuously growing to improve the efficiency of thermal systems on the demand of present era. To get rid of the scientists and engineers from traditional heat transfer intensification methods and to miniaturize thermal transport devices, novel and innovative techniques are obligatory. In this whole drive, the effective tube geometries and efficient working fluids perform vital role in the betterment of heat exchange devices. Geometrical argumentations/surface modifications impose on smooth tubes are called as enhanced tubes. These tubes contribute towards high rate of heat transfer by reducing the formation of boundary layer near the wall surfaces of the tube. Also, nanofluids with superior thermo-physical properties compared to conventional fluids also assist the rate of heat exchange in various heat transfer applications. This article begins with the introduction of enhanced tubes and nanofluids and followed by overview of nanofluid synthesis and different tube geometries. An attempt has been made to summarize last decade research contributions in the field of forced convection heat transfer and flow characteristics (HTFC) with employing the combined effect of enhanced tubes and nanofluids. Additional heat transfer enhancement techniques (swirl flow devices, magnetic field, agitation, rotation and pulsation) brace with present ones, are also discreetly deliberated. Proposed correlations by authors are also represented which shows the good agreement with experimental data. Important findings and outcomes from reviewed studies are compiled in discussion section. A number of suggestions and guidelines are highlighted to intensify the heat transfer rate as well as to mitigate the effects of pressure losses in fluid flow pipes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Machine learning based real time monitoring and measurement of energy consumption characteristics. • Energy characteristics at different stages of machine tools were monitored. • Classification were performed with different ML methods. • Random forest approach obtained higher efficacy with maximum overall accuracy. The development of cutting-edge monitoring technologies such as embedded devices and sensors has become necessary to ensure an industrial intelligence in modern manufacturing by recording machine, process, tool, and energy consumption conditions. Similarly, machine learning based real time systems are popular in the context of Industry 4.0 and are generally used for predicting energy needs and improving energy utilization efficiency and performance. In addition, sustainable and energy-efficient machining technologies that can reduce energy consumption and associated negative environmental effects have been the latest topic of much study in recent years. Concerning this regard, the present work firstly deals with the real time monitoring and measurement of energy characteristics while machining titanium alloys under dry, minimum quantity lubrication (MQL), liquid nitrogen (LN 2) and hybrid (MQL + LN 2) conditions. The energy characteristics at different stages of machine tools were monitored with the help of a high end energy analyser. Then, the energy signals from each stage of machining operation were predicted and classified with the help of different machine learning (ML) models. The experimental results showed that MQL, LN 2 , and hybrid conditions decreased the total energy consumption by averagely 2.6 %, 17.0 %, and 16.3 %, respectively, compared to dry condition. The ML results demonstrated that the accuracy of the random forest (RF) approach obtained higher efficacy with 96.3 % in all four conditions. In addition, it has been noticed that the hybrid cooling conditions are helpful in reducing the energy consumption values at different stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Machining performance is improved using machine learning in traditional methods. • The environmentally friendly lubricants MQL and nano-MQL has also been utilized. • The Ridge regression and Decision tree are utilized to anticipate the data. Machine learning has numerous advantages, especially in the rapid digitization of the manufacturing industry that combines data from manufacturing processes and quality measures. Predictive quality allows manufacturers to make informed predictions about the quality of their products by analyzing data gathered during production. The quality of the machining, the total cost and the computation time need to be improved using contemporary production processes. With this concern, a series of experiments were carried out on Bohler steel both in dry, Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL) and nano-MQL conditions in varying quantities to explore the tool wear. In comparison to dry conditions, the utilization of MQL in machining processes demonstrates significantly enhanced efficacy in mitigating flank wear. The reduction in flank wear ranges from around 5% to 20% to 25%, contingent upon the application of MQL on the flank face, rake face, or both faces simultaneously. After that, the results of the tests were evaluated with the models of machine learning (ML) to determine which environment was optimal for cutting under both real and artificial circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. To examine the extent to which differences in medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) in pregnancy and infant neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) outcomes are associated with maternal race/ethnicity. Methods. We performed a secondary analysis of a statewide quality improvement database of opioid-exposed deliveries from January 2017 to April 2019 from 24 hospitals in Massachusetts. We used multivariable mixed-effects logistic regression to model the association between maternal race/ethnicity (non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black, or Hispanic) and prenatal receipt of MOUD, NOWS severity, early intervention referral, and biological parental custody at discharge. Results. Among 1710 deliveries to women with opioid use disorder, 89.3% (n = 1527) were non-Hispanic White. In adjusted models, non-Hispanic Black women (AOR = 0.34; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.18, 0.66) and Hispanic women (AOR = 0.43; 95% CI = 0.27, 0.68) were less likely to receive MOUD during pregnancy compared with non-Hispanic White women. We found no statistically significant associations between maternal race/ethnicity and infant outcomes. Conclusions. We identified significant racial/ethnic differences in MOUD prenatal receipt that persisted in adjusted models. Research should focus on the perspectives and treatment experiences of non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic women to ensure equitable care for all mother–infant dyads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental investigations were carried out in order to study the heat transfer performance of silver (Ag), multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and silver (Ag) + multiwalled carbon nanotubes (Ag + MWCNTs) dispersed in distilled water. Nanofluids were synthesized and characterized using different techniques. Experimental facility was fabricated to validate the heat transfer performance of nanofluids in the laminar flow. The nanofluids were tested at mass concentrations of 0.02%, 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2% and 0.5% for all the three nanofluids. Experimental average heat transfer coefficient was evaluated as a function of Reynolds number. The highest heat transfer augmentation of 67.5% was observed for 0.5 mass% MWCNT/distilled water nanofluids followed by 59.8% for hybrid Ag-MWCNT/distilled water nanofluids, and the least enhancement of 52.1% was observed with Ag/distilled water nanofluids for Reynolds number 2200. The hybrid nanofluids showed better enhancement compared to silver nanofluids. The heat transfer showed an increase with Reynolds number and particle loading. New correlations were developed for the nanofluids for heat transfer enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervicothoracic deformity correction often necessitates a shortening operation, consisting of a 3-column osteotomy (3CO). While effective, segmental compression and in situ and cantilever bending often place screws under considerable stress and may jeopardize deformity correction. In this report, we present the surgical technique of a novel method, the "rail technique," to shorten across a vertebral column resection (VCR) for cervicothoracic deformity correction. A 65-year-old woman with a history of a C5-pelvis posterior instrumented fusion (PSIF) presented with chin-on-chest deformity after a prior proximal junctional failure/kyphosis at T4 (30° T3-5) above a prior T5-pelvis PSIF that was stabilized in situ. She underwent an uncomplicated revision C2-T10 PSIF with shortening across a T4 VCR using the "rail technique." Postoperatively, radiographs demonstrated excellent restoration of and normalization of cervical sagittal alignment, thoracic kyphosis, focal T3-5 kyphosis (7°), and global sagittal alignment. At 1-year postoperation, she was without neck pain and reported significant improvements in self-image, mental health, satisfaction, and subscale Scoliosis Research Society-22 scores compared to preoperative values. The "rail technique" is a safe and effective method for shortening over a 3CO to correct the cervicothoracic deformity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study by J. Perlman and colleagues which shared their experience with 31 newborns born to mothers with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) over a three-week period at their center in New York City. Topics include vertical transmission during pregnancy, guidance on location of newborn care and breastfeeding for mothers with COVID-19 from selected organizations, and critical and time-sensitive needs for research around neonatal care and outcomes related to COVID-19.

The proper implementation of sustainable manufacturing processes is an effective step towards a clean environment. The modern cooling strategies applied in the manufacturing sector have presented promising solutions that enable economic growth and ecological environment. In machining operations, cryogenic cooling and minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) have been extensively utilized to replace conventional cooling techniques. Thus, this work offers a detailed review of major works focused on manufacturing processes that use some of these sustainable cooling/lubrication modes (i.e., MQL, nanocutting fluids, nanofluid-based MQL strategy, and other miscellaneous MQL upgrades). The main driver of this study is to create a bridge between the past and present studies related to MQL and MQL upgrades. In this way, a new guideline can be established to offer clear directions for a better economic vision and a cleaner manufacturing process. Thus, this review has mainly focused on the machining of the most commonly used materials under MQL-related methods in conventional operations including turning, milling, drilling, and grinding. Current work provides a detailed insight into the major benefits, limitations, as well as mechanisms of cooling strategies that directly affects the machinability performance from a sustainable point of view. In summary, further potential upgrades are indicated so that it will help to drive more sustainable approaches in terms of cooling and lubrication environment during machining processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive use of coolant is undesirable in machining due to environmental consciousness; thereby, small but efficacious (improved thermal and tribological properties) amount of coolant has been implemented using minimum quantity lubrication (MQL). In this study, attention was focused on the experimental investigations on tool flank wear, chip morphology, surface roughness (Ra and Rq) and chip-tool interface temperature in the machining of hardened steel (~ 40 HRC) under olive oil-assisted MQL spray system. As investigating factors, the cutting speed, feed rate, and depth of cut were oriented by following the Taguchi orthogonal array. Then, the cooling and lubrication mechanism of the olive oil-assisted MQL system has been discussed. Outcomes of this study showed that MQL is capable of generating favorable machining outcomes, i.e., lower tool flank wear, reduced temperature, and surface roughness in comparison with dry cutting. The reductions in Ra, Rq, and cutting temperature were about 23.4%, 23.8%, and 24% respectively in terms of mean values. The two types of dominant chip shapes, i.e., (1) continuous tubular and (2) discontinuous small diameter chips, were produced under the dry and MQL-assisted cooling method. In the nutshell, it is appropriate to claim that the overall thermal and tribological properties of olive oil-assisted MQL system are responsible for fruitful results during turning of hardened steel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) was originally performed in cases of ankylosing spondylitis. This procedure was invented because it was safer than trying to lengthen the anterior column via osteoclasis, which risked vascular injury and death1-4. PSO involves the removal of the posterior elements and the use of a vertebral body wedge to shorten the spine posteriorly and achieve sagittal-plane correction5,6. PSO has been used to correct sagittal-plane deformities not only in patients with ankylosing spondylitis but also in those with degenerative conditions or those who have previously undergone surgical procedures resulting in a loss of lumbar lordosis7,8. Description: The fixation points are placed with pedicle screws above and below the planned osteotomy level. The posterior elements are decompressed at the level of the osteotomy and at 1 level proximally. In addition to the use of straight and angled curets, a high-speed burr is used to decancellate the vertebral body. Pedicle osteotomes are used to remove the pedicle. Temporary rods are placed. The posterior wall of the body is then impacted into the vertebral body, and the temporary rods are loosened. To close the osteotomy, the bed is extended or the spine is pushed manually, resulting in correction of the lordosis. The temporary rods are tightened. Themain rods, independent of the short rods, are used to connect multiple segments several levels above and below the osteotomy site to provide final stabilization. Alternatives: The alternatives to PSO depend on the surgical history of the patients, as well as the flexibility and alignment of the spine. In a spine with mobile disc spaces, Smith-Petersen osteotomies can be performed posteriorly to shorten the posterior column overmultiple segments to gain lordosis. A formal anterior or lateral approach can be performed to release the disc spaces and restore the disc height. Aposterior release through the facet joints with segmental compression can achieve desired lumbar lordosis. A vertebral column resection can also be performed to achieve lordosis. Rationale: PSO is ideal for patients who have undergone multiple spinal fusions andwho have a very rigid, flat lumbar spine. Asingle posterior approach can be used to provide adequate correction of the flat lumbar spine up to 40°. Asymmetric PSO can also be performed to allow for correction in the coronal plane. Recently, PSO has been performed more frequently because of the improved osteotomy instrumentation, exposure to resection techniques, and improved positioning tables that allow correction of the osteotomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cutting fluid is significant in any metal cutting operation, for cooling the cutting tool and the surface of the workpiece, by lubricating the tool-workpiece interface and removing chips from the cutting zone. Recently, many researchers have been focusing on minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) among the numerous methods existing on the application of the coolant as it reduces the usage of coolant by spurting a mixture of compressed air and cutting fluid in an improved way instead of flood cooling. The MQL method has been demonstrated to be appropriate as it fulfills the necessities of 'green' machining. In the current study, firstly, various lubrication methods were introduced which are used in machining processes, and then, basic machining processes used in manufacturing industries such as grinding, milling, turning, and drilling have been discussed. The comprehensive review of various nanofluids (NFs) used as lubricants by different researchers for machining process is presented. Furthermore, some cases of utilizing NFs in machining operations have been reported briefly in a table. Based on the studies, it can be concluded that utilizing NFs as coolant and lubricant lead to lower tool temperature, tool wear, higher surface quality, and less environmental dangers. However, the high cost of nanoparticles, need for devices, clustering, and sediment are still challenges for the NF applications in metalworking operations. At last, the article identifies the opportunities for using NFs as lubricants in the future. It should be stated that this work offers a clear guideline for utilizing MQL and MQL-nanofluid approaches in machining processes. This guideline shows the physical, tribological, and heat transfer mechanisms associated with employing such cooling/lubrication approaches and their effects on different machining quality characteristics such as tool wear, surface integrity, and cutting forces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The constant pressure on the manufacturers to innovate and implement sustainable processes has triggered researching on machining with low carbon footprint, minimum energy consumption by machine tools, and improved products at the lowest cost—this is exactly done in this paper. Herein, the advanced cooling lubrication, i.e., nanofluid assistance, besides dry and flood cooling, during machining has been experimented, and used as the basis for sustainability assessment. This assessment is carried out in respect of surface quality and power consumption as well as the impact on environment, cost of machining, management of waste, and finally the safety and health issues of operators. For a better sustainability, a systematic optimization has been performed. In addition, the solution for an improved machinability has been proposed along with the statistically verified mathematical models of machining responses. Results showed that the nanofluid minimum quantity lubrication showed the most sustainable performance with a total weighted sustainability index 0.7, and it caused the minimum surface roughness and power consumption. The highest desirable (desirability = 0.9050) optimum results are the cutting speed of 116 m/min, depth of cut 0.25 mm, and feed rate of 0.06 mm/rev. Furthermore, a lower feed rate is suggested for better surface quality while for reduced power consumption the lower control factors are better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Hybrid lubri-coolant is proposed by mixing ethanol-biodegradable ester oil. • Dry ice (solid CO 2) added (−76 °C) to this novel hybrid cooling mixture. • Thermophysical properties of lubri-coolants are investigated experimentally. Recent pandemics played a cardinal role in developing health-conscious behavior and pushed the industries to seek eco-benign cutting fluids to improve machinability. Therefore, a sustainable hybrid lubri-coolant is proposed by mixing ethanol-biodegradable ester oil in varying proportions (1:0.25, 1:0.5, and 1:1). In this work, dry ice (solid CO 2) has been added (−76 °C) to improve the cooling capabilities by sublimation. The thermophysical properties along with the surface hardening of machined Ti-6Al-4V alloy was investigated experimentally and the results were compared to without dry ice. Experimental findings showed a reduction in specific heat, density, and viscosity while an enhancement in thermal conductivity by mixing dry ice. After dry ice was added, the specific heat of ethanol dropped by 40%. When ester oil was combined with dry ice, its specific heat also decreased by 50.4%. Therefore it is worthy to mention that the hybrid lubri coolant based on dry ice-based ethanol/ester oil could be an alternative to achieve high-speed machining parameters in machining hard to cut materials for aerospace Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under different working conditions, the tribological characteristics of materials show a complicated and non-linear relation. As a result, it is crucial to advance tribology by prioritising a data-driven strategy to estimate service capability in order to expedite the material design and preparation. With this aim, the present work firstly deals with the implementation of novel deep learning technologies in predicting tribological characteristics of additively manufactured and casted 316 stainless steel against 100 cr6 alloy. The coefficient of friction and frictional forces data from ball-on-flat experiments were used to develop the different deep learning models i.e., CNN, CNN-LSTM, and ATTENTION based CNN. Then, the wear tracks of tested samples were analysed with the SEM analysis. According to the findings of the wear rate, the AM material wears with an average of 58% less intensity than the casted material. In addition, the performance of the CNN Attention model demonstrated higher levels of accuracy and lower loss metrics in comparison to the CNN and CNN-LSTM classifiers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on these judging criteria, it is clear that though PSO and BFO revealed identical results, the PSO is more attractive with respect to aforementioned comparative advantages. Although the results obtained by both techniques are the same, the success rate of PSO is 83.4% as compared to the 65.8% success rate for BFO. [Extracted from the article]

BACKGROUND: Discharge readiness is a key determinant of outcomes for families in the NICU. Since 2003, using a broad set of outcome and process measures, we have conducted an ongoing quality improvement initiative to improve the discharge preparation process in our NICU and readiness of families being discharged from the NICU. METHODS: Iterative improvements to the discharge preparation process were made by a multidisciplinary committee. Discharge readiness was measured by using a parental and nurse survey for all families discharged from our NICU. Primary outcome measures included parental self-assessment of discharge readiness and nurse assessment of the family's emotional and technical discharge readiness. Secondary outcome measures included assessment of specific technical skills and emotional factors. Process measures included nursing familiarity with family at discharge. Improvement over time was analyzed by using statistical process control charts. RESULTS: Significant improvement was seen in all primary outcome measures. Family self-assessment of discharge readiness increased from 85.1% to 89.1%; nurse assessment of the family's emotional discharge readiness increased from 81.2% to 90.5%, and technical discharge readiness increased from 81.4% to 87.7%. Several secondary outcome measures revealed significant improvement, whereas most remained stable. Nurse familiarity with the family at discharge increased over time. CONCLUSIONS: Quality improvement methodology can be used to measure and improve discharge readiness of families with an infant in the NICU. This model can provide the necessary framework for a structured approach to systematically evaluating and improving the discharge preparation process in a NICU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In machining of soft alloys, the sticky nature of localized material instigated by tool-work interaction exacerbates the tribological attitude and ultimately demeans it machinability. Moreover, the endured severe plastic deformation and originated thermal state alter the metallurgical structure of machined surface and chips. Also, the used tool edges are worn/damaged. Implementation of cooling-lubrication (C/L) agents to reduce friction at faying surfaces can ameliorate overall machinability. That is why, this paper deliberately discussed the influence of pure C/L methods, i.e., such as dry cutting (DC) and nitrogen cooling (N2), as well as hybrid C/L strategies, i.e., nitrogen minimum quantity lubrication (N2MQL) and Ranque-Hilsch vortex tube (RHVT) N2MQL conditions in turning of Al 7075-T6 alloy, respectively. With respect to the variation of cutting speed and feed rate, at different C/Ls, the surface roughness, tool wear, and chips are studied by using SEM and 3D topographic analysis. The mechanism of heat transfer by the cooling methods has been discussed too. Furthermore, the new chip management model (CMM) was developed under all C/L conditions by considering the waste management aspects. It was found that the R-N2MQL has the potential to reduce the surface roughness up to 77% and the tool wear up to 118%. This significant improvement promotes sustainability in machining industry by saving resources. Moreover, the CMM showed that R-N2MQL is more attractive for cleaner manufacturing system due to a higher recyclability, remanufacturing, and lower disposal of chips. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Modern manufacturing industries thrive for energy efficient, clean and sustainable machining processes. However, achieving these objectives becomes difficult especially in machining Ti-6Al-4V as it retains its properties at high temperature. Cryogenic liquid nitrogen (LN 2) is a clean machining environment that has potential to improve the machinability performance for Ti-6Al-4V. LN 2 promotes sustainability and facilitates low carbon emission. Orientation and number of employed LN 2 jets influence the cutting energy, quality and productivity. Moreover, a balance between energy consumption and quality-productivity is required for sustainable production. In this respect, this research work studies the cutting force, specific energy, temperature, surface quality (i.e. surface roughness), and material removal rate under the impingement of LN 2 as mono-jet and dual-jets. This study has three parts: evaluation of the role of factors on the output parameters, optimization of parameters, and lastly the life cycle assessment (LCA) of cryogenic LN 2 assisted machining. Owing to irreconcilable nature of single-objective optimization, multi-response optimization was conducted using Grey-Taguchi integrated approach. It was found that LN 2 dual-jets were most effective in reducing the specific energy consumption and temperature, and improving surface quality. This can be attributed to the faster and effective heat removal by LN 2 from the critical interfaces. Other optimum parameters were cutting speed of 140 m/min and feed rate of 0.16 mm/rev. It was found that LCA showed that there is a clear relation between cooling strategy and environmental aspects such as resources, energy, human health, and biodiversity, etc. that directly affects the machining performance of Ti-6Al-4V alloy. Graphical abstract Image Research-Highlights • Turning of hardened Ti-6Al-4V using dry, mono-jet and dual-jets of cryogenic conditions. • Study of cutting force, specific energy, temperature, surface quality and material removal rate. • Evaluation of the role of factors on the output parameters. • Optimization of parameters using Grey Relational Analysis (GRA). • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of cryogenic LN 2 assisted machining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the negative consequences of conventional mineral-based cutting fluids, manufacturing industries strive to utilize less harmful and environmentally friendly cutting fluids. The non-toxicity and biodegradability of vegetable oils present them as a suitable replacement for cutting fluids based on mineral oil. However, vegetable oil possesses inferior oxidation and thermal stability at elevated temperatures due to which nanoparticles are blended with vegetable oil to improve the lubrication and cooling characteristics. In this perspective, the influence of nano-suspended coconut oil (CO) has been investigated during the turning of AISI-1040 steel. The various wt% concentrations of nano-Al2O3 ranging from 0.25 to 1.50% were added in CO to prepare the nanofluid. Then, the machining operation was performed under dry cutting, flood cooling with conventional mineral-based oil, minimum quantity lubrication with pure coconut oil (CO-MQL), and MQL with nanofluids (NF-MQL). The performance was evaluated through tool wear, cutting temperature, surface integrity, cutting tool vibration, and microhardness. The findings revealed that NF-MQL significantly reduces tool wear in comparison with other selected cutting environments. The 53%, 38%, and 25% reduction in flank wear and 37%, 31%, and 17% reduction in crater wear depth in correlation with dry cutting, flood cooling, and CO-MQL demonstrate the superiority of NF-MQL in increasing the tool life. NF-MQL also results in superior surface finish quality with an improvement of 54%, 32%, and 28%, reduction in cutting temperature by 55%, 38%, and 20%, minimizing the tool vibration by 68%, 45%, and 24% in comparison with dry cutting, flood cooling, and CO-MQL cutting environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research studies about nanofluids are on the rise owing to the mounting interest and demand for nanofluids as heat transfer fluids in a wide variety of applications in the recent years. This can be noticed from the number of papers published and in particular by journal special issues. To establish the field further, the purpose of this paper is threefold. First, it offers a literature review on hybrid or composite nanofluids, which are prepared either by dispersing different nanoparticles as individual constituents or by dispersing nanocomposite particles in the base fluid, taking 160 papers published from before 1995 to 2017 into account. Second, it offers a contemporary investigation on preparation and thermophysical properties of hybrid nanofluids. Lastly, this review outlines the applications and challenges associated with hybrid nanofluid; which should stimulate further research. This review also discusses several factors affecting the thermophysical properties; including types of nanoparticles, solid volume fraction, different base fluid, stability, temperature, particle size, shape, pH, sonication, and surfactants. There are many contradictory results found in the literature on the influence of effective parameters on thermophysical properties. It has been observed that the thermophysical properties are affected by the mentioned parameters. This review also reveals that proper characterization of hybrid nanofluids results in more efficient heat transfer fluids compared to single nanoparticle based nanofluid. However, more intense research is needed towards the selection of proper hybrid nanoparticles, their preparation, characterization and long-term stability to exploit their full potential as well as to overcome the barriers in applying these new fluids in industrial scale applications. Both practitioners in companies and academics might find this review useful, as it outlines significant lines of research in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Inconel 718 alloy, a difficult-to-cut superalloy with an extensive demand on aircraft and nuclear industries, being a low thermally conductive material exhibits a poor machinability. Consequently, the cutting tool is severely affected, and the tool cost is increased. In this context, an intelligent solution is presented in this paper—investigation of minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) and the selection of best machining conditions using evolutionary optimization techniques. A series of milling experiments on Inconel 718 alloy was conducted under dry, conventional flood, and MQL cooling modes. Afterward, the particle swarm optimization (PSO) and bacteria foraging optimization (BFO) were employed to optimize the cutting speed, feed rate, and depth-of-cut to minimize the flank wear (VBmax) parameter of a cutting tool. Though both the PSO and BFO models performed well, the validated results showed the superiority of PSO. Furthermore, it was found that the MQL performed better than the dry and flood cooling condition with respect to the reduction of the tool flank wear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]