bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparing Safety Profiles of Skin‐Sparing and Nipple‐Sparing Mastectomy With Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap Breast Reconstruction: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Blazel Madeleine M. , Quick Joseph D. , Schafer Rachel E. , Shukla Priya , Wu Shannon S. , Bernard Steven , Schwarz Graham , Djohan Risal , Gurunian Raffi , Bishop Sarah N. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundMastectomy is performed prior to or concurrently with deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction. However, the complication rates of nipple‐sparing mastectomy (NSM) versus skin‐sparing mastectomy (SSM) with DIEP are not well‐characterized.MethodsThis retrospective study included patients who underwent SSM or NSM with DIEP reconstruction between January 2019 and July 2022 at an academic institution. The primary outcome was 30‐day postoperative complication rate. Variables were compared using Student's t‐tests/Wilcoxon rank‐sum and Chi‐square/Fisher's exact tests.ResultsOf 535 patients, 195 (36%) underwent NSM and 340 (64%) underwent SSM. The 30‐day postoperative complication rates did not differ between cohorts (16.4% in NSM vs. 16.8% in SSM, p > 0.9). The NSM cohort had a higher rate of any flap necrosis (9.2% vs. 3.5%, p = 0.01) compared to the SSM cohort, though rates of total DIEP flap loss rate did not differ (4.1% vs. 1.5% respectively). Site‐wide total DIEP flap loss was 2.4%. The NSM cohort had smaller preoperative sternal notch‐to‐nipple distances (25.0 vs. 26.5 cm, p < 0.001) and had lower rates of preoperative radiation therapy (28.2% vs. 42.9%, p < 0.002) compared to the SSM cohort. The cohorts did not differ in demographic or operative variables including reconstruction timing (delayed vs. immediate interval), readmission, and reoperation.ConclusionsIndividuals who received an NSM prior to DIEP reconstruction had more flap complications compared to the SSM cohort. Both cohorts had comparable overall 30‐day postoperative complication rates and demographic variables, and rate of total DIEP flap loss was 2.4%. Patient preference can further guide surgical decision‐making.
Menopause Matters: Results of a National Survey of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients in the UK
Authors: Petford Sharon , Robinson Sandra , Matthews Sally , Begum Julie , Bosworth Ailsa , Jacklin Clare , Walker David 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundThe effects of the menopause have received a lot of attention in the press recently. Anecdotally, patients report changes in their arthritis around the menopause, either onset or aggravation of symptoms. Clearly, there are hormonal influences on arthritis with the female predominance, onset of RA around times of hormonal change and improvement during pregnancy. We were interested in exploring the patient perspective to inform future research and educational needs.MethodA national survey was organised through the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS), using their database of people with RA and online community who self‐selected as peri menopausal, menopausal or post‐menopausal. A questionnaire was developed by the steering group seeking responses on the effects of the menopause, changes in the arthritis at the time, use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and any discussions they had had with their healthcare providers. Free text comments were analysed qualitatively.ResultsA total of 779 people responded during September/October 2023. Respondents were 95% Caucasian mainly in their 50s with onset of menopausal symptoms in their 40s. 80% responded that their arthritis was worse during the menopause with 10% being much worse. 47% had taken HRT. Of these, 80% experienced an improvement in their menopausal symptoms and 30% had a moderate or large improvement in their arthritis symptoms. A standout statistic was that 93% of respondents had had no medical discussion about the menopause. For those who did, this was most frequently with the GP in relation to HRT and osteoporosis. 84% of participants felt that the rheumatology team should receive more education and training about the menopause in relation to RA. The qualitative analysis revealed several themes:
Discussion about the menopause only occurred if the patient raised it.
There was conflicting advice about HRT.
There is overlap and confusion of symptoms between RA and the menopause.
Participants expressed a perceived link between menopause and onset or deterioration of their arthritis.
This study was long overdue.

ConclusionsPatients perceive a strong association between the menopause and onset or deterioration of their arthritis, with confusion over what is due to arthritis and what is being caused by the menopause. Patients would like much more discussion about the menopause, but this is not currently happening. They are getting conflicting advice on HRT. Further research is necessary to clarify the impact of the menopause on people with arthritis.
Float solenoid balun for MRI
Authors: Lu Ming , Yang Yijin , Chai Shuyang , Yan Xinqiang 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBaluns are crucial in MRI RF coils, essential for minimizing common‐mode currents, maintaining signal‐to‐noise ratio, and ensuring patient safety. This paper introduces the innovative float solenoid balun, based on the renowned solenoid cable trap, and conducts a comparative analysis with the widely used float bazooka balun. Leveraging robust inductive coupling between the cable shield and float resonator, the float solenoid balun offers compact dimensions and post‐installation adjustability. Through electromagnetic simulations and bench testing across static fields (1.5, 3, and 7 T), the float solenoid balun demonstrates superior common‐mode rejection ratios compared to the float bazooka balun. Notably, its float design facilitates easy post‐installation adjustment and eliminates the need for soldering on the cable shield, enhancing usability and reducing risks. Furthermore, the solenoid balun's compact footprint addresses the increasing demand for smaller baluns in modern MRI scanners with denser coil arrays. The float solenoid balun offers a promising solution by conserving valuable space within the RF coil, simplifying practical hardware implementation and cable routing, and accommodating more elements in RF arrays, with great potential for enhancing MRI performance.
A low‐cost trans‐scale model for the collaborative analysis of the manufacturing and in‐service process of unidirectional CFRP composites
Authors: Zheng Chensheng , Chang Xin , Huang Cheng , Ren Mingfa 
Published: November 2024

AbstractDuring the manufacturing of thermoset‐based carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer (CFRP) structures, a curing process involving thermal, chemical, and mechanical interactions occurs. This process gives rise to micro‐scale residual stresses due to differences in fiber and resin properties, leading to decreased mechanical properties compared to nominal values. A trans‐scale analysis method utilizing the reduced order model (ROM) is applied in this study to establish a connection between the manufacturing and in‐service processes for unidirectional CFRP (UD‐CFRP). By employing this method, the evolution of residual stresses at the micro‐scale during UD‐CFRP manufacturing is predicted, and the impact of these residual stresses on structural performance during service is assessed. Specifically, the manufacturing‐induced residual stresses reduce the material strength by a minimum of 19.31%, while also exploring the correlation between macro‐scale and micro‐scale failures. Notably, the computational cost of this method is significantly lower, with a reduction factor of 103 compared to the finite element method. Empirical evidence supports the effectiveness of this method in accurately predicting outcomes throughout both the manufacturing and in‐service processes.Highlights
Trans‐scale analysis method links composites manufacturing simulation to in‐service performance.
Highly efficient trans‐scale method excels in cost, accuracy, consistency, and convergence.
Residual stresses from the curing process significantly impact matrix safety.
Enhancing the electro‐elastic properties of a castor‐oil‐derived polyurethane/barium titanate piezoelectric energy‐harvesting composite by integration of multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Baidya Kabir , Kumar Abhishek , Roy Amritendu , Das Kaushik 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThree‐component piezoelectric composites, with castor‐oil‐derived polyurethane (COPU) as the matrix, reinforced with barium titanate (BTO) microparticles (as the primary piezo‐active inclusion) and with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were synthesized. BTO content is varied (3, 12, and 25 vol%), while the MWCNTs content is maintained constant at 0.65 wt% (0.37 vol%) w.r.t. the COPU matrix. The addition of MWCNTs significantly enhances the piezoelectric strain coefficient (), relative dielectric constant (k/k0), and piezoelectric response, that is, open circuit voltage (VOC) of the piezo‐composites. The (COPU/MWCNTs)/25 vol% BTO composite gives a value of 1.8 ± 0.1 pC/N, an increase of ~1.38 times compared to COPU/25 vol% BTO composite (with a value of 1.3 ± 0.1 pC/N). The relative dielectric constant (k/k0) value of two‐component COPU/BTO (25.0 vol%) increased from 10.34 ± 0.06 to 11.15 ± 0.05 by addition of 0.65 wt% MWCNTs. A maximum open circuit voltage of ~19.6 V for three‐component (COPU/MWCNTs)/ 25 vol% BTO composite was obtained at 45 N load and at 5 Hz frequency. This value (VOC) is ~1.29 times higher compared to COPU/25 vol% BTO composite (with VOC ~ 15.2 V). The k/k0 and values and elastic moduli obtained via experiments were further compared with those obtained from finite element analyses based on kinematic uniform boundary conditions (KUBC) and from Eshelby–Mori–Tanaka micromechanics extended to the domain of linear piezoelectric composites.Highlights
Castor‐oil‐derived (COPU/MWCNTs/BTO) three‐component composites were synthesized
Integration of MWCNTs enhances by ~1.38 times for COPU/25 vol% BTO
Elastic modulus and electrical conductivity increased with the addition of MWCNTs
Computational predicted k/k0 and values closely match to experimental data
Preparation of multiaxial glass fiber/epoxy prepreg and its mechanical properties in composites
Authors: Yu Lichao , Shen Wensi , Li Donbing , Kong Lingguo , Liu Xiaofei , Han Wanli , Shen Xiaojun 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the mechanical properties of composites made from biaxial warp‐knitted glass fiber/epoxy prepregs (BW‐GF/EP) in comparison to plain woven glass fiber/epoxy prepregs (PW‐GF/EP). The BW‐GF/EP composites demonstrated superior tensile strength, with an increase of 9.5%, and bending strength, with an increase of 12.2%, compared to the PW‐GF/EP composites. Despite having a lower tensile modulus, the BW‐GF/EP composites exhibited 8.7% higher interlaminar shear strength. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed that both materials had similar storage and loss moduli at lower temperatures, with PW‐GF/EP performing better at higher temperatures. Microscopy revealed that failure in PW‐GF/EP occurred at weave intersections, while BW‐GF/EP composites showed fiber rupture and delamination. The findings highlight the advantages of using biaxial warp‐knitted fabrics for improved composite performance.Highlights
Developed biaxial warp‐knitted fabric prepregs to replace liquid molding techniques.
Improved interlaminar shear strength, reducing delamination risks in composites.
Achieved higher tensile and bending strength compared to plain weave composites.
Enhanced resin impregnation and molding efficiency with biaxial warp‐knitted fabrics.
Reduced environmental impact and costs by avoiding VOCs and minimizing waste.
A method for predicting thermal expansion coefficients of carbon fiber/epoxy composites with void defects
Authors: Wang Dong , Huang Hao , Shan Zhongde , Liu Feng , Liu Jianhua , Guo Zitong 
Published: November 2024

AbstractTo predict the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of carbon fiber/epoxy resin composites with void defects comprehensively and accurately, a comprehensive study is carried out by integrating experiment, analytical model (ANM), and finite element model (FEM). The experiments on composites are conducted combining with Micro‐CT to provide geometric parameters and verification for ANM and FEM. An ANM considering void defects is established based on the Chamis model to investigate the influence of porosity, temperature and the ratio of modulus of the constituents of composites. A FEM is established to verify the ANM and reveal the mechanisms of the influence of void defects. The results show that the proposed ANM has high agreement with FEM and experiment. The longitudinal CTE decreases by 61.94% as the porosity increases from 0% to 20% at 60°C, and the same change of porosity results in a 15.62% decrease at 180°C. The transverse CTE is less susceptible to changes in porosity, showing reductions of 2.32% at 60°C and 3.33% at 180°C.Highlights
An innovative model is proposed to predict CTE considering void defects.
The glass transition temperature Tg of the resin has a significant effect on CTE.
Void defects change the homogeneity of the original stress field of the matrix.
The reduction of the longitudinal CTE caused by void defects is more significant.
Advanced HPTLC Method Development for Silibinin Analysis in Nanoformulated Scaffolds: A Box–Behnken Approach
Authors: Dsouza Melvin Vincent , Dodamani Suneel , Kurangi Bhaskar , Shetti Priya , Gudasi Sachin 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTIntroductionSilibinin (silybin), a bioactive component derived from the seeds of milk thistle (Silybum marianum), is recognized for its diverse pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and hepatoprotective effects. Given its therapeutic significance, accurately quantifying silybin in various formulations is essential. High‐performance thin‐layer chromatography (HPTLC) is a powerful analytical technique frequently used for this purpose. In this study, an HPTLC method was validated according to the International Council for Harmonization (ICH) guidelines to determine the concentration of silybin. The design of experiments (DoE), specifically the Box–Behnken design, was employed to optimize and understand the influence of critical method variables.MethodologyThe HPTLC method validation was performed using silica gel F254 HPTLC plates. The variables investigated included the composition of the mobile phase (% v/v), saturation time (minutes), and temperature in degree Celsius (°C), with the Box–Behnken design for optimization. The mobile phase consisted of chloroform, acetone, and formic acid in a 7:2:1 (v/v) ratio. Both the formulated scaffold and standard drug were applied to the plates, which were then processed in a twin chamber. After development, the plates were scanned at 288 nm using the Camag TLC Scanner IV with Vision CATS software.ResultsThe validated HPTLC method demonstrated a strong linear relationship within the silybin concentration range of 2–10 μg/mL. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) for silybin were determined to be 0.469 and 1.423 μg/mL, respectively. Recovery studies indicated that the method provided accurate quantification, with recovery rates ranging from 97.53% to 99.82%. These results confirm the method's high accuracy, outstanding linearity, and reliability for the quantification of silybin in formulations.ConclusionThe validated HPTLC method proved to be a reliable analytical tool for the quantification of silybin in various formulations, particularly those containing polymers. The method's strong linearity, precision, and accuracy align with the ICH guidelines, making it suitable for routine analysis in quality control laboratories. The use of the Box–Behnken design for method optimization highlights the importance of systematic experimentation in achieving robust analytical outcomes.
Sexual Function and Quality of Life in Individuals Post Stroke
Authors: Schneider Danielle , Comley‐White Nicolette 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundSexual function is commonly affected post stroke and impacts an individual's quality of life. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with sexual function in an individual post stroke and the association with quality of life.MethodThis cross‐sectional study included 56 participants who had a stroke between three and 24 months prior. The participants were assessed for: level of disability with the Modified Rankin Scale (MRS); quality of life with the Stroke Specific Quality of Life scale (SSQOL); and sexual function with the Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (CSFQ‐14), and an open‐ended questionnaire was administered.ResultsThe average age of the participants was 51.32 (SD = ±13.24) years, with 32 (57.1%) males and 24 (42.9%) females. According to the CSFQ‐14, the majority of the study participants (n = 35, 62.5%) had sexual dysfunction after their stroke. The factors associated with sexual dysfunction post stroke included age, disability, comorbidities, psychosocial factors such as self‐esteem, role changes, and depression. Those with sexual dysfunction were found to have a lower mean SSQOL score (139.94 ± 33.89) than those without sexual dysfunction (149.76 ± 33.77), however, there was no significant difference (p = 0.298) between the groups. Majority of the participants (n = 37; 66.1%) did not know that healthcare professionals can assist with sexual dysfunction.ConclusionThe majority of participants experienced sexual dysfunction after their stroke. Factors such as pain, difficulty with positioning, self‐esteem issues, lack of motivation, and change in desire, are important considerations for the multidisciplinary team in the rehabilitation of a patient's sexual function post stroke.Trial RegistrationThis cross‐sectional study did not require study registration.
Tanshinone IIA Alleviates Pulmonary Fibrosis by Inhibiting Pyroptosis of Alveolar Epithelial Cells Through the MAPK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Xu Yong , Wang Yi‐ran , Peng Wen‐pan , Bu Hui‐min , Zhou Yao , Wu Qi 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe current dearth of safe and efficacious pharmaceutical interventions for pulmonary fibrosis (PF) has prompted investigations into alternative treatments. This study aim to investigate the underlying mechanisms of Tanshinone IIA in the treatment of PF. PF was induced in a mouse model by intratracheal infusion of bleomycin (BLM), followed by gavage administration of varying concentrations of Tanshinone IIA. Lung tissue was obtained for pathological slides, proteomic and transcriptomic analyses. The target was predicted and analyzed using network pharmacology. Initially, an in vitro model in A549 cells was established by adding BLM, followed by treatment with varying concentrations of Tanshinone IIA. Subsequently, NAC and the ERK inhibitor, U0126, were individually introduced. Treatment with Tanshinone IIA in vivo decreased lung tissue lesions. Proteomic, transcriptomic, and network pharmacology analyses suggested that Tanshinone IIA may offer therapeutic benefits for PF by mitigating oxidative stress damage via the MAPK signaling pathway. In vitro studies demonstrated that BLM treatment in A549 cells induced exposure of the N‐terminal end of the pyroptosis core protein GSDMD, and elevated oxidative stress levels in A549 cells, concomitant with the upregulation of P‐ERK protein expression. Subsequent administration of Tanshinone IIA, NAC, and U0126 reduced the number of A549 cells undergoing pyroptosis, decreased oxidative stress levels, and decreased P‐ERK protein expression. These findings suggested that Tanshinone IIA potentially delays the progression of PF. The mechanism of action involves the inhibition of oxidative stress and reduced epithelial cell pyroptosis via the MAPK‐related pathway. The findings may provide a new reference for treatment of PF.
Combining the effects of industrialization and oil prices onCO2emissions: What role do renewable energy, urbanization and financial crisis play?
Authors: Chen Jianxing , Wu Wenyang , Nguea Stéphane Mbiankeu 
Published: November 2024

AbstractTransitioning to a low‐carbon economy is essential for sustainable development; however, there remains a significant gap in understanding the moderating role of oil prices within the industrialization‐CO2emissions relationship. This study is the first to investigate how industrialization interacts with oil prices to affect CO2emissions across 30 African countries from 2000 to 2021, focusing on country‐specific heterogeneity. The results of Driscoll‐Kraay and IV‐GMM techniques suggest that industrialization drives CO2emissions, while oil prices mitigate CO2emissions in Africa. The results also show that economic growth (GDP) and urbanization stimulate CO2emissions, while renewable energy and financial crises reduce it. The study's key findings report that oil prices moderate industrialization to reduce CO2emissions in Africa. The heterogeneity analysis reveals that industrialization reduces CO2emissions in top, upper‐middle and low‐industrialized countries. Oil prices reduce CO2emissions in upper‐middle and low‐industrialized countries, while this relationship is insignificant in top industrialized countries. The findings also indicate that oil prices moderate industrialization to reduce CO2emissions in upper‐middle industrialized countries, not top and low industrialization groups. Finally, findings from quantile regression suggest that the effects of oil price and industrialization on CO2emissions are heterogeneous. Policymakers should promote green industries, invest in renewable energy infrastructure, and implement regulations that adhere to environmental standards.
Atomistic Insights into the Ionic Response and Mechanism of Antifouling Zwitterionic Polymer Brushes
Authors: Song Xinzhong , Man Jia , Zhang Xiangkuan , Wang Jiali , Zhang Yongqi , Li Jianyong , Du Jun , Chen Yuanyuan , Li Jianfeng , Chen Yuguo 
Published: November 2024

AbstractZwitterionic polymer brushes are not a practical choice since their ionic response mechanisms are unclear, despite their great potential for surface antifouling modification. Therefore, atomic force microscopy and molecular dynamics simulations investigated the ionic response of the surface electrical properties, hydration properties, and protein adhesion of three types of zwitterionic brushes. The surface of PMPC (poly(2‐methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine)) and PSBMA (poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate)) zwitterionic polymer brushes in salt solution exhibits a significant accumulation of cations, which results in a positive shift in the surface potential. In contrast, the surface of PSBMA polymer brushes demonstrates no notable change in potential. Furthermore, divalent Ca2+ enhances protein adhesion to polymer brushes by Ca2+ bridges. Conversely, monovalent Na+ diminishes the number of salt bridges between PSBMA and PCBMA (poly(carboxybetaine methacrylate)) zwitterionic polymer brushes and proteins via a competitive adsorption mechanism, thereby reducing protein adhesion. A summary of polymer brush material selection and design concepts in a salt solution environment is provided based on the salt response law of protein adhesion resistance of various zwitterionic materials. This work closes a research gap on the response mechanism of zwitterionic polymer brushes' antifouling performance in a salt solution environment, significantly advancing the practical use of these brushes.