bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Equipment Management Methods for Pumped Storage Power Stations Under the “Dual-Carbon” Goals
Authors: He Yichun , Wan Zhengxi , Tang Guangrui , Hao Guowen , Wang Kangle , Yan Qingyou
Published: May 2024

Pumped-storage, as the most mature technology, economically optimal, and most suitable for largescale development, plays a crucial role in promoting the consumption of clean energy and supporting the construction of new energy systems. Pumped-storage power stations involve various types of equipment such as hydraulic and electrical devices. The frequent start-stop operation in the context of new energy system construction will pose significant challenges to the equipment. This paper proposes a reliability-centered health management method for pumped-storage equipment. It implements differentiated and hierarchical management strategies for various types of equipment and establishes differentiated equipment maintenance strategies based on this.The project takes the manhole door of a power station governor pressure oil tank with nitrile rubber sealing ring as an example to calculate the service life in actual working conditions. Through calculation, it is considered that when reliability is 99%, the service life can be extended for more than 5 years, and if the reliability is 100%, the service life can be extended for more than 1 year.
Quality control measures for seismic exploration data acquisition in front of Longmen Mountain
Authors: Duan Wenshen , Wu Chaorong , Tu Yuangen , Wang Bing
Published: May 2024

In front of Longmen Mountain, there is a mountainous area with large terrain elevation differences and dense vegetation. The coupling between detectors in limestone and gravel exposed areas and the surface layer is poor. The completion of blasting wells in gravel areas, as well as the layout and burial of seismic survey lines and detectors in mountainous areas, pose difficulties in seismic exploration. The article dissects the factors that affect the quality of collected data, such as shot point measurement, shot point drilling, detector burial, mountainous survey line layout, and interference source control. Targeted measures to enhance GPS measurement signals, gravel area shot well drilling, and mountainous survey line layout are proposed to effectively improve the quality of collected data and work efficiency, which can provide reference for seismic exploration in mountainous areas.
A Feature Window Weighted Correlation Spectral Matching Method for Rock and Mineral Resources
Authors: Zhang Yuanhong , Zhang Min
Published: May 2024

This paper proposes a feature window weighted correlation spectral matching method for rocks and minerals, which includes the following steps: (1) Assuming that the error caused by the natural environment is a random normal distribution, the remote sensing image is based on each band, and within the reflectance range, the reflectance of each band is extended to the range of 0 to 1 according to the normal distribution law, forming a matrix dataset X; (2) Using the standard spectral curve as a benchmark for each band, within the reflectance range, the reflectance of each band is extended to the range of 0 to 1 according to the normal distribution pattern, forming a matrix dataset Y; (3) Within the full wavelength range, classify the sensitivity intervals of rocks and minerals based on standard spectral curves, form feature windows, and set predetermined weight coefficients; (4) Calculate the correlation coefficient r of the feature window and combine it with the weight coefficient in step (3) to obtain the comprehensive correlation coefficient K; (5) Using the comprehensive correlation coefficient K as the final basis for identifying rock and mineral types.
Development of a portable retractable tower naming plate paster
Authors: Yang Yu , Wang Peng , Zheng Yuan , Gao Liqiang , Chen Guokun , Chen Xiuhua , Pan Xijie
Published: May 2024

Due to the use of the new line and the new station area, the existing tower naming plate has not met the requirements of the latest specification, and it is urgent to replace it in batches, but the traditional naming plate pasting work must be carried out manually throughout the whole process, which is time-consuming and laborious, and the efficiency is low. In order to solve the above problems, a portable retractable tower naming plate pasting device was developed to improve the on-site pasting working mode, and the device integrates a fixed fixture, a cleaning brush, and a retractable insulating rod in one, and has the characteristics of portability and high efficiency. It has been proved in practice that the developed device can effectively reduce the unqualified rate of pasting and improve work efficiency, and effectively improve quality and efficiency.
Research on Geological Disaster Risk Assessment Method Based on GIS in Changji City, Xinjiang
Authors: Liao Shibin , Liang Yuxia , Tao Jintao , Geng Xinyu , Tursun Gulbostan
Published: May 2024

This study takes the risk assessment of geological disasters in Changji City as the research object. By reviewing the detailed investigation report and risk survey documents of 1:50000 geological disasters in Changji City, along with the annual verification, investigation, and exploration results of major hidden danger points, we collected and organized the necessary data for the assessment and integrated multidisciplinary knowledge such as geology, GIS technology, and statistics. The study aims to identify the inducing factors, development characteristics, and distribution law of geological disasters in the area, thereby determining the risk assessment factors. To ascertain the weight of these factors, we employed an evidence weight model and a machine learning method. The vulnerability assessment, incorporating existing basic data and vulnerability factors such as population density, building density, and road density, was conducted using fuzzy mathematics for Changji City. Finally, the risk assessment used the ArcGIS analysis function to calculate the risk and vulnerability assessment results. Through ArcGIS, we superimposed the risk grade and vulnerability grade of geological disasters on a grid, ultimately obtaining the risk assessment results for the study area.
Research on standards and standard system of hydrogen pipeline in China
Authors: Xiaolu Chen , Yanmei Yang , Wei Bao , Bing Liu , Xiao Tan , Junfu Lyu , Ling Lin
Published: May 2024

Pipeline hydrogen transport is one of the main technical paths to achieve large-scale storage and transportation of hydrogen energy, and standards are important technical support for pipeline hydrogen transport applications. China’s hydrogen pipeline construction started late, and a relatively complete hydrogen pipeline standard system has been established in the world, but China’s hydrogen pipeline standard system has not been established, the lack of key technical standards and other problems. This paper investigates the current situation of hydrogen transport pipeline standards and the applicability to China. A standard system is preliminarily constructed for hydrogen transport pipelines, including 6 sub-systems and 23 technical standard fields. Some suggestions are put forward for the development of China’s hydrogen pipeline standardization.
The Bottlenecks and Countermeasures Faced by the Development of China’s New Energy Industry from the Perspective of Ecological Civilization
Authors: Pan Xiangchao
Published: May 2024

With the development of the social economy, the contradictions between China’s population, resources, and environment are becoming increasingly prominent. Therefore, the most important way for China’s industrial development is to develop and utilize new energy. These new energy sources mainly include solar energy, geothermal energy, wind energy, ocean energy, biomass energy, and nuclear fusion energy, among others. The significance of new energy in China’s sustainable development is mainly reflected in improving environmental quality, saving limited resources, and enhancing energy security. The development of China’s new energy industry still encounters multiple challenges that impose limitations on resource structure modification. It is necessary for us to aggressively pursue effective countermeasures to promote the development and use of new energy. Ecological Civilization has prioritized the development of new and clean energy sources. The major goal of this paper is to analyse the challenges that exist in the development of new energy in China in light of Ecological Civilization and to propose some novel ideas for the development path of China’s new energy industry.
Die Novellierung der Finanzierung der Substitution – eine Perspektive
aus nichtärztlicher Sicht
Authors: Schäffer Dirk
Published: May 2024

Als leitender Mitarbeiter eines Fachverbands, der sich seit mehr als 30 Jahren mit
dem Thema Substitutionsbehandlung beschäftigt und als Patient, der über 25 Jahre
selbst substituiert wurde, möchte ich mich zum Thema EBM-Änderung positionieren.
Substanzkonsum im sexuellen Kontext („Chemsex“) bei Männern, die Sex
mit Männern haben – Ergebnisse des „German-Chemsex-Survey“
Authors: Deimel Daniel , Bohn Annette , Sander Dirk , Scherbaum Norbert , Schecke Henrike
Published: May 2024

Ziel der Studie Sexualisierter Substanzkonsum beschreibt den Konsum von
psychotropen Substanzen zum Sex. Als spezifische Variante gilt „Chemsex“, der
mit Männern, die Sex mit Männern haben (MSM), und Substanzen wie
Methamphetamin, Mephedron, GHB/GBL und Ketamin assoziiert ist. Sexualisierter
Substanzkonsum kann mit multiplen negativen physischen, psychischen und sozialen
Folgen einhergehen. Zur Veränderungsmotivation und Inanspruchnahme des
Suchthilfesystems von MSM mit sexualisiertem Substanzkonsum ist wenig bekannt.
Das Ziel der Studie war es, die Gruppe der Chemsex-Konsumenten näher zu
beschreiben, deren Konsummotive und Konsumkontexte sowie die
Veränderungsmotivation der MSM in Bezug auf den Substanzkonsum abzubilden und
deren Inanspruchnahme von Hilfeleistungen auszuführen.

Methodik Im „German Chemsex Survey“ wurde online eine Stichprobe von MSM
(N=1583) befragt. Die Umfrage umfasste 420 Items zu Substanzkonsum im sexuellen
Kontext, Konsummotiven, Aspekten psychischer Gesundheit, sexuell übertragbaren
Infektionen, negativen psychosozialen Folgen von „Chemsex“, und
Schadensminimierungsstrategien. Zudem wurden die Veränderungsmotivation sowie
die Inanspruchnahme von psychosozialen Hilfsangeboten erfragt.

Ergebnisse 54,3% der Männer gab an, Substanzen im Zusammenhang von
Sexualität konsumiert zu haben, 28,5% berichteten von typischen Chemsex
Substanzen. Die 30-Tage-Prävalenz für Chemsex-Substanzen betrug: 14,4% für
GHB/GBL, 11,2% für Ketamin, 8,2% für Methamphetamin und 6,1% für Mephedron. Die
Prävalenz von HIV lag bei 24,6% und für Hepatitis C bei 1,6%. Ein Drittel bis
die Hälfte der Konsumenten äußerten einen Veränderungswunsch bezüglich ihres
Konsums, 9,3% äußerten professionellen Unterstützungsbedarf. Lediglich ein
Prozent nahm aktuell Angebote der Suchthilfe in Anspruch.

Schlussfolgerung Ein Drittel bis die Hälfte der Befragten gab an, dass sie
eine Veränderung des Substanzkonsums im sexuellen Kontext anstreben. Die geringe
Nutzung von Suchthilfeangeboten spricht für eine Versorgungslücke für MSM mit
sexualisiertem Substanzkonsum.
Erfolgreiche chirurgische Exzision eines Melanoms und eines seltenen
peripheren Nervenscheidentumors bei 2 Rindern
Authors: Schrenk Marie-Theres , Wenzel Christoph , Jäger Kathrin
Published: May 2024

Ein Jungrind und eine Milchkuh wurden in unserer Praxis mit im Durchmesser ca. 20
cm großen Umfangsvermehrungen, die sich jeweils an der linken Halsseite
befanden, vorgestellt. Beide Geschwulste hatten in den letzten Wochen an Umfang
zugenommen und es bestand die Gefahr, dass es zu Verletzungen durch die
Stalleinrichtungen kommt. Beide Tierhalter stimmten einer chirurgischen
Entfernung, die unter Sedation und Lokalanästhesie auf einem Kippstand für
Rinder durchgeführt wurde, zu. Die anschließenden histopathologischen
Untersuchungen der Exstirpate ergaben bei dem Jungrind ein Melanozytom und bei
der Milchkuh einen kutanen Nervenscheidentumor. In beiden Fällen handelte es
sich um gutartige Tumore. Der postoperative Verlauf war komplikationslos und
auch über ein Jahr später konnten keine Rezidive beobachtet werden. Bei
verwandten Tieren und bei später geborenen Kälbern konnten solche Tumore nicht
festgestellt werden.
Akute Vergiftungen bei Hunden – Falluntersuchung über einen Zeitraum
von 5 Jahren
Authors: Markert Carina , Heilmann Romy M. , Kiwitz Dschaniena , Raum Tobias , Dörfelt René
Published: May 2024

Gegenstand und Ziel Ziel dieser retrospektiven Studie war die Analyse der
klinischen Symptome bei nachgewiesenen oder vermuteten Vergiftungen sowie deren
Behandlungen und klinischen Verläufen bei Hunden, die über einen Zeitraum von 5
Jahren in der Notaufnahme einer überregionalen Kleintierklinik vorgestellt
wurden.

Material und Methoden Die Krankenakten von 634 Hunden wurden mit Hinblick
auf eine bestätigte oder vermutete Vergiftung, die entsprechenden klinischen
Symptome, Behandlung sowie den klinischen Verlauf und Ausgang ausgewertet. Die
Wahrscheinlichkeit einer Vergiftung wurde anhand der Anamnese, der klinischen
Befunde, der Beobachtung der Giftstoffaufnahme, der toxikologischen Untersuchung
und – in einigen Fällen – der Ingesta im Gastrointestinaltrakt eingestuft.

Ergebnisse Die meisten Hunde wurden stationär aufgenommen (77%) aufgrund
von Vergiftungen mit meist unbekannten Giftstoffen (33%), Speiseresten (18%),
Rodentiziden (10%), tremorgenen Mykotoxinen (8%), Medikamenten (7%) und
verschiedenen Pflanzen (7%), gefolgt von Partydrogen (4%), Chemikalien (4%),
Molluskiziden (3%), Antiparasitika (2%), Ausscheidungen (2%), Nüssen (2%) oder
tierischen Toxinen (1%). Die Patienten wurden überwiegend mit neurologischen
Symptomen (56%), reduziertem Allgemeinzustand (39%) und Störungen des
Herz-Kreislauf-Systems oder Hydratationsstatus (26%) vorgestellt. Die
Überlebensrate betrug 97%. Die meisten Hunde wurden klinisch unauffällig (70%)
entlassen. Bei weiteren Überlebenden (18%) traten bis zum Entlassungszeitpunkt
keine offensichtlichen Komplikationen auf. Komplikationen in Verbindung mit der
Vergiftung (20,5%) beinhalteten Blutungen (4%), Leber- (4%) und Nierenschäden
(4%), respiratorische (3%) oder gastrointestinale (3%), kardiovaskuläre (3%) und
zentralnervöse (3%) Störungen oder klinisch relevante Hypoglykämien (0,3%).

Schlussfolgerung und klinische Relevanz In der vorliegenden Studie blieb
der ursächliche Giftstoff in vielen Fällen unerkannt. Bei den bekannten
Vergiftungen handelte es sich zumeist um Vergiftungen in Verbindung mit der
Aufnahme von Speiseresten. Neurologische Symptome waren am häufigsten. Im
Vergleich zu anderen Studien war die Überlebensrate (97%) hoch.
Reply to the Letter to the Editor on “Prolactin is a Key Factor for
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Obese Children”
Authors: Zhang Jianwei
Published: May 2024

Dear Editor,

The authors thank the writers 1 of the
letter for reviewing and assessing our article 2, “Prolactin is a Key Factor for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in
Obese Children”. Overall, we agree that possible selection bias must be considered.
However, in clinical studies, we found that hyperprolactinemia is mainly caused by
pathological and idiopathic hyperprolactinemia. The former includes hypothalamic
pituitary lesions (pituitary prolactinoma and empty sella syndrome, etc.), systemic
diseases (hypothyroidism, etc.), tumor secretion (ovarian teratoma, etc.), trauma
(chest wall trauma, etc.), surgery (artificial abortion, etc.), and drug side
effects (antipsychotics, antidepressants, etc.).
Statistical Experimental Designs for cLTB-Syn Vaccine Production Using Daucus carota Cell Suspension Cultures
Authors: Carreño-Campos Christian , Villegas Elba , Villarreal María Luisa , Morales-Aguilar Mónica , Govea-Alonso Dania , Romero-Maldonado Andrea , Jimenez-Capdeville María E. , Rosales-Mendoza Sergio , Ortiz-Caltempa Anabel
Published: May 2024

The carrot-made LTB-Syn antigen (cLTB-Syn) is a vaccine candidate against synucleinopathies based on carrot cells expressing the target antigen LTB and syn epitopes. Therefore, the development of an efficient production process is required with media culture optimization to increase the production yields as the main goal. In this study, the effect of two nitrogen sources (urea and glutamate) on callus cultures producing cLTB-Syn was studied, observing that the addition of 17 mM urea to MS medium favored the biomass yield. To optimize the MS media composition, the influence of seven medium components on biomass and cLTB-Syn production was first evaluated by a Plackett–Burman design (PBD). Then, three factors were further analyzed using a central composite design (CCD) and response surface methodology (RSM). The results showed a 1.2-fold improvement in biomass, and a 4.5-fold improvement in cLTB-Syn production was achieved at the shake-flask scale. At the bioreactor scale,
there was a 1.5-fold increase in biomass and a 2.8-fold increase in cLTB-Syn yield compared with the standard MS medium. Moreover, the cLTB-Syn vaccine induced humoral responses in BALB/c mice subjected to either oral or subcutaneous immunization. Therefore, cLTB-Syn is a promising vaccine candidate that will aid in developing immunotherapeutic strategies to combat PD and other neurodegenerative diseases without the need for cold storage, making it a financially viable option for massive immunization.
Precision Rhinoplasty Cylindric Burrs—Sidewall Aesthetics
Authors: Ilhan Emre , Arancibia-Tagle Diego , Özay Hüseyin , Carlos Neves Jose
Published: May 2024

The development of power instruments has led to great advances in rhinoplasty. It has helped to reduce operating time, minimize damage to the surrounding soft tissues, and allow precision bony modification compared with the use of manual rasps. Burrs help ensure precise results by (i) creating a smooth transition between the lateral nasal sidewall and the face, (ii) treating bony asymmetries, and (iii) producing homogeneous upper and middle thirds that softy translate into the upper lateral cartilages. The aim of this paper is to show applications of cylindrical burrs in rhinoplasty surgery to treat the dorsal upper and middle thirds as well as lateral sidewalls of the nose, regardless of whether the dorsal preservation or structure technique is used. This approach offers a safe, fast, and precise technique that can be used in conjunction with piezo osteotomy to obtain the optimal outcomes.
Cool-Shot Technique to Protect Spinal Cord during Thoracoabdominal Aortic Replacement
Authors: Yamamoto Taira , Endo Daisuke , Yokoyama Yasutaka , Tabata Minoru
Published: May 2024

Deep hypothermia helps protect the spinal cord, but is invasive. Here, we present a method to avoid reperfusion injury by selectively circulating cold blood under high pressure to the intercostal artery during reperfusion after intercostal artery reconstruction. Of the 23 patients who underwent thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm open repair, one died. The motor evoked potential disappeared during aortic clamping in nine patients. Six patients recovered completely from aortic clamping release, two showed recovery >50% and one achieved full recovery 3 months later. Permanent motor impairment did not occur. This method could prevent reperfusion injury and paraplegia following thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm surgery.
Statins in Chronic Liver Disease: Review of the Literature and Future Role
Authors: Pham Nguyen , Benhammou Jihane N.
Published: May 2024

Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a major contributor to global mortality, morbidity, and healthcare burden. Progress in pharmacotherapeutic for CLD management is lagging given its impact on the global population. While statins are indicated for the management of dyslipidemia and cardiovascular disease, their role in CLD prevention and treatment is emerging. Beyond their lipid-lowering effects, their liver-related mechanisms of action are multifactorial and include anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and immune-protective effects. In this review, we highlight what is known about the clinical benefits of statins in viral and nonviral etiologies of CLD and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and explore key mechanisms and pathways targeted by statins. While their benefits may span the spectrum of CLD and potentially HCC treatment, their role in CLD chemoprevention is likely to have the largest impact. As emerging data suggest that genetic variants may impact their benefits, the role of statins in precision hepatology will need to be further explored.
Gas–Liquid Microchemical Oxidation for Continuous Synthesis Processes: A Short Review
Authors: Chang Yu , Xing Yuyang , Yan Zifei , Luo Guangsheng , Deng Jian
Published: May 2024

Gas–liquid oxidation processes, despite their wide application in the chemical industry, still pose considerable safety concerns. Microchemical technology has received high recognition for its intrinsic safety performance and process-intensification capability in hazardous reactions. This Short Review offers a comprehensive summary on how microchemical technology can be employed to achieve gas–liquid oxidation processes for continuous synthesis of chemicals in a safe, efficient, and controlled manner. Herein, we discuss the key aspects of gas–liquid dispersion and hydrodynamics, as well as mass transfer characteristics on microscale, and present representative gas–liquid oxidation cases in microflow reactors. Finally, the current challenges in industrial applications and potential academic research directions are presented.

1 Introduction

2 Microbubble Generation Technology for Gas–Liquid Oxidation Reactions

3 Hydrodynamic and Mass-Transfer Characteristics of Gas–Liquid Oxidation Microreactors

4 Gas–Liquid Oxidation Reactions in Microreactors

5 Conclusion and Outlook
Mechanical Testing of Sliding on Pivot-Locking Clamp (SOP-LC) Fracture Repair System in Four-Point Bending and Torsion
Authors: Miller Angel
Published: May 2024

Objectives The first objective of this study was to compare the mechanical performance of a straight and contoured rod for the sliding on pivot-locking clamp (SOP-LC) system. The second objective was to compare single-cycle bending and torsion of the SOP-LC rod-bone constructs to a bone gap model between two clamp configurations.

Study Design First experiment, 5 mm diameter rods from the 3.5 mm SOP-LC system, 4 straight and 4 bent rods were mechanically compared in four-point bending. The second experiment, 8 constructs with clamps on a single side of the rod and 8 constructs with clamps on alternating sides were compared in four-point bending and torsion. A torque limiting screwdriver at 2.5N was used for all constructs.

Results There were not significant differences between the noncontoured versus contoured rods. Constructs with clamps on a single side had a significantly higher yield load, yield displacement and bending strength, but the constructs with alternating clamps had a significantly higher initial torsional stiffness. There were no other significant differences. Mild clamp slippage and mild screw bending were noted in all the torsion tested constructs graphically with multiple stiffness slopes and visually on the post-tested constructs.

Conclusion Torque applied to initial screw placement may play a role in reducing clamp slippage. Although bending yield load, bending yield displacement, bending strength and torsional stiffness were improved by different clamp placement, clinically this will depend on fracture type. Further studies are needed for clinical significance.
Quality Assessment and Comparison of 3D-Printed and Milled Zirconia Anterior Crowns and Veneers: In Vitro Pilot Study
Authors: Kalman Les , Tribst João Paulo Mendes
Published: May 2024

The esthetic rehabilitation of a patient is a demanding yet rewarding procedure, improving the form, function, and well-being of a patient. Three-dimensional (3D) printed, or additive manufactured, zirconia has recently entered the dental space, but without a thorough assessment or comparison. This pilot study utilized digital impressions of two demonstration casts: Cast 1 prepared both central incisors for full ceramic crown coverage, while cast 2 had a lateral incisor (#22) prepared for a ceramic veneer. Both casts underwent digital scanning (Straumann CARES 3, Straumann, Basel, Switzerland) to create virtual STL models. Cast 1 had two full zirconia anterior crowns digitally designed, and Cast 2 had a zirconia veneer digitally designed, using Exocad GmbH software by a certified dental technician at Schulich Dentistry. The STL files were used for fabricating six milled zirconia crowns for central incisor (#21) and six 3D-printed zirconia crowns for the other central incisor (#11). Similarly, for Cast 2, milled and 3D-printed zirconia veneers were made for the prepared lateral incisor (#22). Statistical analysis employed Minitab 16.1.0 software to construct a 2 × 2 table for cross-tabulation and chi-squared analysis. This statistical approach assessed the relationship between restoration design and processing method. Cochran–Mantel–Haenszel test evaluated categorical variables considering different classification variables. Milled restorations showed minor variations, while 3D-printed units displayed consistency. Statistical tests found no significant associations. This in vitro study suggests 3D-printed zirconia for crowns and veneers meets precementation standards akin to conventionally milled restorations. Further research can assess its potential benefits for dentistry's efficiency, cost, and sustainability.
Exoscopic Minimally Invasive Excision of Intradural Extramedullary Tumor
Authors: Sahana Debabrata , Rathore Lavlesh , Kumar Sanjeev , Sahu Rajiv K.
Published: May 2024

Spinal tumors extending up to two levels can be removed using minimally invasive techniques. A microscope is traditionally used as a visualization tool with the tubular-retractor system. An exoscope is a newer optical tool with improved digital resolution, panoramic view, and better ergonomics for surgery. A 36-year-old who presented with paraparesis was diagnosed with intradural extramedullary tumor in the T7-T8 region. A complete tumor resection was possible using tubular retractors and exoscope. The patient recovered clinically. We document our surgical experience and present an edited video of the surgery. The key steps and nuances are described in the audio timeline. The authors acknowledge the feasibility of performing this surgery via a minimally invasive method using an exoscope.
Hinge Craniotomy for Traumatic Brain Injury: Surgical Technique
Authors: Jain Chirag , Devi Bhagavatula Indira , Bhat Dhananjaya I. , Shukla Dhaval , Konar Subhas
Published: May 2024

Hinge craniotomy has been described as an alternative to decompressive craniectomy for the control of intracranial pressure in traumatic brain injury and stroke. In this study, the authors highlight critical steps in performing a hinge craniotomy and present a clinical case of a patient with traumatic brain injury.
CORE High-SMAS Extended Deep Plane Facelift Technique: How it Evolved
Authors: Wever Capi C.
Published: May 2024

Extended deep plane techniques have become the benchmark of facelift surgery. Yet these techniques assume release of the medial most of zygomatic retaining ligaments, which makes them rather complex and highly dependent on training and experience. In this article, we will review and describe the adapted extended high-superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) approach of the author and discuss the obstacles that can be encountered mastering this technique.
Cerclage Plus Adjuvant Vaginal Progesterone for Preterm Birth Prevention in Patients with a Short or Dilated Cervix without Prior Preterm Birth
Authors: Hart Jessica M. , Macharia Annliz , Modest Anna M. , Johnson Katherine M. , Lauring Julianne , Nicasio Erica , Hacker Michele R. , Spiel Melissa H.
Published: May 2024

Objective The primary objective was to determine if vaginal progesterone following cerclage for cervical length <10 mm or cervical dilation in patients without a history of spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) decreased the risk of preterm birth at <34 weeks' gestation compared with cerclage alone. Secondary objectives were to determine if vaginal progesterone following cerclage (1) decreased the risk of preterm birth at <24, <28, and <37 weeks' gestation and (2) increased the latency period from cerclage placement to delivery compared with treatment with cerclage alone.

Study Design Multicenter retrospective cohort study from 2015 to 2020 of singleton pregnancies, without prior sPTB, who had cerclage placement <24 weeks' gestation for cervical length <10 mm or cervical dilation. Exposure defined as cerclage plus vaginal progesterone postoperatively (dual therapy) and unexposed as cerclage alone (monotherapy), based on surgeon preference.

Results We included 122 patients, 78 (64%) treated with dual therapy and 44 (36%) treated with monotherapy. In the crude analysis, dual therapy was associated with a lower risk of delivery at <28 weeks' gestation (13%) compared with monotherapy (34%; crude risk ratio: 0.38 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.19–0.75]). When adjusted for preoperative vaginal progesterone, results were attenuated (adjusted risk ratio: 0.45 [95% CI: 0.20–1.01]). In both the crude and adjusted analyses, the risk of sPTB was not statistically different at <24, <34 or <37 weeks' gestation. Dual therapy was associated with a greater pregnancy latency from cerclage to delivery (16.3 vs. 14.4 weeks; p = 0.04), and greater gestational age at delivery (37.3 vs. 35.8 weeks' gestation; p = 0.02) compared with monotherapy.

Conclusion While not statistically significant, the risk of sPTB was lower at all gestational ages studied in patients treated with dual therapy compared with monotherapy. Dual therapy was associated with longer pregnancy latency and greater gestational age at delivery compared with monotherapy.

Key Points
Mesenteric Ischemia after Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Petrov Asen , Taghizadeh-Waghefi Ali , Hotz Fabio , Georgi Christian , Matschke Klaus Ehrhard , Busch Albert , Wilbring Manuel
Published: May 2024

Background Mesenteric ischemia (Me-Is) after cardiac surgery is underreported in present literature but has still earned the bad reputation of a dismal prognosis. This study adds clinical outcomes in a large patient cohort.

Methods Between 2009 and 2019 of the 22,590 patients undergoing cardiac surgery at our facility 106 (0.47%) developed Me-Is postoperatively. Retrospective patient data was analyzed. Additionally, patients were stratified by outcome—survivors and nonsurvivors.

Results Patients were predominantly male (n = 68, 64.2%), mean age was 71.2 ± 9.3 years. Most procedures were elective (n = 85, 80.2%) and comprised of more complex combined procedures (50.9%) and redos (17.9%). Mean EuroSCORE II averaged 10.9 ± 12.2%. Survival at 30 days was 49.1% (n = 52). Clinical baseline and procedural characteristics did not differ significantly between survivors and nonsurvivors. The median postoperative interval until symptom onset was 5 days in both groups. Survivors were more frequently diagnosed by computed tomography and nonsurvivors based on clinical symptoms. Me-Is was predominantly nonocclusive (n = 84, 79.2%). Laparotomy was the main treatment in both groups (n = 45, 78.8% vs. n = 48, 88.9%, p = 0.94). Predictors of mortality were maximum norepinephrine doses (hazard ratio [HR] 8.29, confidence interval [CI] 3.39–20.26, p < 0.0001), lactate levels (HR 1.06, CI 1.03–1.09), and usage of inotropes (HR 2.46, CI 1.41–4.30).

Conclusion The prognosis of Me-Is following cardiac surgery is poor—independently from diagnostic or treatment patterns. There exists a significant asymptomatic time period postoperatively, in which pathophysiologic processes seem to cross the Rubicon. After clinical demarcation, the further course can almost no longer be influenced.
The Incidence of Winged Scapula after Thoracic Cancer Surgery: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Teixeira Luiz Felipe Nevola , Sandrin Fabio , da Silva Ruy Fernando Kuenzer Caetano , Petrella Francesco , Bertolaccini Luca , Simoncini Maria Claudia , Spaggiari Lorenzo
Published: May 2024

Background Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, and surgery is still the first treatment of choice in early and locally advanced cases. One of the iatrogenic complications is the serratus anterior palsy, which could lead to a winged scapula (WS). Unfortunately, the incidence of this deficit in thoracic surgery is unclear. Our primary aim was to determine the incidence of WS in lung cancer patients in a single-center experience.

Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data with patients eligible for oncological thoracic surgery from March 2013 until January 2014. A physical evaluation of the WS was performed pre- and postoperatively, at the discharge and after 1 year of follow-up.

Results A total of 485 patients were evaluated; 135 (27.8%) showed WS. Longer operative time (p < 0.0001), type of surgery (p < 0.0001), lymphadenectomy (p < 0.0001), and neoadjuvant treatment prior surgery (p = 0.0005) were significantly related to the WS injury. Multivariable analysis showed that type of surgery was significantly associated with WS (p < 0.0001). After 1 year, 41.6% still had WS.

Conclusion The incidence of WS was similar to the literature. As WS incidence is underdiagnosed, assessment and correct education about possible deficits or impairments should be improved. Moreover, when a minimally invasive approach is not planned, it is a good clinical practice to discuss surgical strategies with surgeons to reduce this deficit.
Addressing Colorectal Cancer Disparities in Unhoused Populations: A Call for Equitable Access and Compassionate Care
Authors: Decker Hannah , Erickson Caroline , Wick Elizabeth
Published: May 2024

Housing is essential for health. Unhoused individuals have markedly worse health status than the general population culminating in higher rates of premature mortality. Cancer is a leading cause of death in older unhoused adults. Caring for unhoused patients at risk for or with colorectal cancer poses challenges at every stage of oncologic care: prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. These challenges result in later stages at diagnosis and worse overall survival. Health systems can work to advance health equity in colorectal cancer in unhoused patients by improving access to care, transitions of care, health care quality, and focusing on socioeconomic/environmental impact.
Essentials of Point-of-Care Ultrasound Coding and Billing at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Setting in the United States
Authors: Chan Belinda , Mnyavanu Natalie , Bhombal Shazia , Fraga María V. , Groves Alan M. , Marshall Stephanie , Mukthapuram Shanmukha , Singh Yogen ,   on behalf of the members of National Neonatal POCUS Collaborative
Published: May 2024

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has increasingly been used by neonatal providers in neonatal intensive care units in the United States. However, there is a lack of literature addressing the complexities of POCUS coding and billing practices in the United States. This article describes the coding terminology and billing process especially those relevant to neonatal POCUS. We elucidate considerations for neonatal POCUS billing framework and workflow integration. Directions on image storage and supporting documentation to facilitate efficient reimbursement, compliance with billing regulations, and appeal to insurance claim denial are discussed.

Key Points
The Impact on Birth Outcomes of Sonographic Fetal Weight Estimation in Neonatal Macrosomia
Authors: Sgayer Inshirah , Nskovica Karina , Murkhovskyi Iuliia , Shqara Raneen Abu , Bilyk Artyom , Lowenstein Lior , Wolf Maya Frank
Published: May 2024

Objective Our objective was to examine the association between sonographic estimated fetal weight (EFW) and obstetrical and neonatal outcomes in women with neonatal macrosomia.

Study Design This study, conducted at a tertiary university-affiliated hospital from 2017 to 2021, compared obstetrical and neonatal outcomes between two groups of women who delivered macrosomic newborns (actual birth weight ≥ 4,000 g): (1) those with EFW ≥ 3,800 g (suspected impending macrosomia) and (2) those with EFW < 3,800 g (unsuspected impending macrosomia).

Results During the study period, 854 women with neonatal macrosomia attempted vaginal delivery. Only 9.2% had a sonographic EFW ≥ 4,000 g. Among women with EFW ≥3,800 g (n = 317) compared with EFW < 3,800 g (n = 537), the cesarean delivery (CD) rate was higher (17.0 vs. 10.5%, p = 0.004) and the operative delivery rate was lower (3.2 vs. 0.6%, p = 0.015). Among primiparous women, the CD rate was higher among those with EFW ≥ 3,800 versus <3,800 g (37.3 vs. 23.2%, p = 0.033). EFW ≥3,800 g was associated with CD, regardless of predelivery body mass index, parity, diabetes mellitus, maximal fetal weight at previous deliveries, actual birth weight, and labor induction (p = 0.014). EFW ≥3,800 g and diabetes mellitus were independent predictors of CD. Among women with EFW ≥3,800 g and diabetes mellitus, the risk of CD was double that of those without diabetes and with EFW ≥ 3,800 g (31.4% vs. 15.2%, p = 0.02), although their actual birth weights were similar. Obstetrical and neonatal outcomes were similar between those with sonographic EFW ≥3,800 and < 3,800 g.

Conclusion Larger EFW increased CD risk among pregnancies with actual neonatal macrosomia. Antenatally suspected macrosomia might alter labor management due to concerns for potential complications, especially when associated with primiparity, diabetes mellitus, or maternal obesity. The increase in the CD rate did not show an association with improved maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Key Points
Diverse degeneracy types in topological phonons: A perspective
Authors: Qin Peiyao , Liu Guang , Wu Peng , Xu Hu
Published: May 2024

The study of novel topological quantum states is gaining significant attention. Recently, the concept of topology has expanded from fermions to bosons, leading to the new era of topological phonons. In crystals, distinctive symmetry constraints lead to diverse excitations among quasiparticles. This makes different patterns of phonon degeneracy in the spectrum. In this perspective, we review recent advances in various types of degeneracies found in topological phonons, including nodal points, nodal lines or rings, and unconventional nodal points with higher Chern numbers. We conclude by looking ahead at exciting possibilities in topological phonons.
Abrupt ternary III–V metamorphic buffers
Authors: Farinha Thomas G. , Supple Edwin , Gorman Brian P. , Richardson Christopher J. K.
Published: May 2024

Emerging quantum materials as well as novel traditional electronic and photonic materials may enable a new generation of information science devices if they can be synthesized on suitable substrates. Additionally, material and device designs may benefit from tunable properties through engineered epitaxial strain for the manipulation of the electronic character. In this work, three series of III–V ternary alloys, GaInSb, AlInSb, and InAsSb, are grown via molecular beam epitaxy on GaAs (001) substrates to explore the flexibility of abrupt metamorphic epitaxial layers with tunable lattice parameters between 6.135 and 6.479 Å. Their deposition on both homomorphic GaAs and pseudomorphic AlAs buffers is also explored. The structures of these alloys are characterized via reflection high-energy electron diffraction, high-resolution x-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy to assess their suitability as stable buffer layers with wide variability of accessible lattice parameters.
Effects of a blend of acidifiers added continuously to the drinking water of nursery piglets
Authors: Zecchin Huillian , Tillmann Aline Carolina , Ladwig Bruna Camila , Bury de Azevedo Liliana , Careli Pedro Silva , Toledo Damares de Castro Fidelis , Vilela Hellen Lazarino Oliveira , Carvalho Silvana Teixeira , Costa Leandro Batista , Carvalho Daiane , Genova Jansller Luiz , Carvalho Paulo Levi de Oliveira
Published: May 2024

Context Adding organic and inorganic acids to the drinking water is a potential alternative to improve production results in nursery piglets, and a strategy for reducing the use of antimicrobials. Aims To assess the effects of adding a blend of organic and inorganic acids to drinking water on the oxireduction potential (ORP) of water, and growth performance, biochemical, antioxidant and blood gas profiles, intestinal morphometry, biometry of organs, and intestinal microbiome of nursery piglets. Methods Experiment involved 1080 female piglets assessed over 30 days (Landrace × Large White, weaned at 26 days of age, weighing 6.8 ± 0.29 kg), randomly assigned to the following three treatments: (1) piglets received drinking water of natural pH of 7.39 (pH7.39), (2) piglets received drinking water of pH of 5.31 (pH5.31), and (3) piglets received drinking water of pH of 3.40 (pH3.40), with eight replicates and 45 piglets/stall. Piglets had ad libitum access to diet and water throughout the experiment, and received different diets in each phase. Key results Receiving drinking water of pH3.40 promoted a higher ORP, and a lower total water consumption was observed in Starter II piglets with pH5.31. There was no treatment effect on the performance, but mortality was lower in starter piglets in the pH3.40 treatment. Animals in the pH3.40 treatment had lower blood alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities, differing from the result obtained for total cholesterol concentrations. Animals in the pH3.40 treatment showed a lower concentration of total protein than did piglets in the pH7.39 treatment. Piglets in the pH3.40 treatment had higher weights of empty stomach, spleen, and liver with gallbladder than did those in the pH7.39 treatment. Animals in the pH3.40 treatment showed a lower relative abundance of the Escherichia–Shigella genus and bacteria of Enterobacteriaceae family than did those in the pH5.31 treatment. Conclusions Acidification of drinking water to pH3.40 for nursery piglets can be used to partially increase the ORP of the water, and promote a greater weight of organs with metabolic and immune functions, while decreasing mortality. In addition, acidification of drinking water does not compromise performance or intestinal histology, but improves the profile of the intestinal microbiome in piglets. Implications This research has provided new information on the effects of acidifiers in the drinking water for nursery piglets and has shown their potential use for bolstering general health.
(Un)packaging the “sweetness” in the naming of farms by resettled Black sugarcane farmers in Chiredzi,
Zimbabwe
Authors: Wasosa Wellington , Mazuruse Mickson
Published: May 2024

This chapter makes a socio-onomastic analysis of farm naming by resettled “Black” sugarcane farmers in Chiredzi
District, Zimbabwe. It focuses on the beneficiaries of the Fast Track Land Reform Programme initiated by the government from 2000.
The research unravels the motives behind the selection of the names and their significance. This was achieved mostly through
interviewing the owners responsible for naming their farms. It was observed that most of the names are in the Shona language and
only a few in English, which points not only to the ethnicity of the beneficiaries but also to the change of ownership from
“Whites” to “Blacks”. These names are largely celebratory, as they reflect on the elevation of the farmers’ socio- economic status
and their hopes and aspirations, whilst some names indicate racial tensions characteristic of the period, the political rhetoric
of the regime and the ruling party, as well as the spirituality and identity of the farmers.
The toponym Bulawayo and ideologies of Ndebele language purism in Zimbabwe
Authors: Ndlovu Sambulo
Published: May 2024

Linguistic and cultural anxieties have characterized the Ndebele language and culture due to the various hegemonies the people have gone through. The Ndebele as a nation were born out of the Mfecane migrations. In their migration up north they encountered various linguo-cultural groups that posed the risk of possible linguistic and cultural attrition. Upon settling in what is known as Zimbabwe today, the speakers of Ndebele were a minority among other language groups which they had conquered militarily. Both colonial conquest and the subsequent Shona triumphalist and nationalist discourses and policies placed Ndebele in a disadvantaged social and political position which threatened its existence. This paper establishes that all these factors fed into the Ndebele linguistic anxiety, which is manifested in various tense encounters, especially on social media platforms. Data for the study were collected through observations and unstructured interviews. Using the prisms of linguistic purism ideologies and linguistic analysis, the paper analyzes the attitudes towards and the grammar of the various renditions of the toponym. The paper establishes that, while political tensions foment the linguistic tensions around the phonology and morphology of the toponym, there are some idiosyncrasies that are influenced by the mother tongues of speakers and this creates some of the transphonological and morphological changes that infuriate Ndebele speakers.
The brand names of craft gins in South Africa*
Authors: Neethling† Bertie
Published: May 2024

Gin has become a very popular alcoholic drink, and is often used with various other mixers, often including fruit.
The definition (
Collins Paperback English Dictionary
) reads as
follows: “an alcoholic drink distilled from malted grain and flavoured juniper berries” (1994: 351). One of the most common drinks
is gin mixed with tonic water, but there are also others mixers involved. Recently, in 2020, a competition was held in South
Africa, with a panel of assessors tasting a wide variety of gins, and many who supplied their gin products with the brand names
thereof achieved gold and silver medals for their entries of mainly craft gins. The purpose of this contribution is to analyze the
various craft gin names in South Africa, as well as the names of the producing firms, distilleries, and estates. Within the
context of onomastics, the focus is therefore on the actual name of the brand as it appears on the label, as well as on the
location where it was produced, hence it is a combination of brand and location.
Mobile philosophies
Authors: Chabata Emmanuel , Mamvura Zvinashe , Mashiri Pedzisai
Published: May 2024

Naming is a common practice in all societies. In each society, naming practices follow patterns that are generally
predictable within their respective and identifiable feature categories.Names come from different sources and are inspired by the
lived experiences of their bestowers. Whilst some names have clear and easily traceable meanings owing to their semantically
transparent morphology or syntax, other meanings are only accessible when one gleans through the histories behind the names. Such
histories come from the name givers’ epistemological systems. Thus, besides being forms of identity, different categories of names
perform different functions. This paper is an analysis of inscriptions written on public transport vehicles, commonly known as
kombis. We argue that these inscriptions are names. Hence, the article interrogates the functions of these
names and tries to unearth the philosophies contained therein. The inscriptions were gathered from kombis plying
their routes on the streets of Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital city. Data relating to the origins of these names and their semantic,
cultural, and social significance was collected from kombi owners and crews.