bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparison of uniportal and three-portal video-assisted thoracoscopic thymectomy for thymoma: a propensity score-matched study.
Authors: Yu Zipu , Zhang Guofei , Shen Gang 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: Minimally invasive thymectomy (MIT) is a surgical approach to thymectomy. To investigate the efficacy of the minimally invasive thymectomy, a retrospective comparison for perioperative outcomes of patients was conducted between uniportal and three-portal video-assisted thoracoscopic thymectomy (UP-VATS and TP-VATS).
Methods: A detailed database search identified 135 patients treated withUP-VATS thymectomy technique and 228 patients treated via TP-VATS thymectomy technique between January 2013 and December 2022. Propensity score-matched analysis was used to compare the perioperative outcomes between the two groups.
Results: The first 20 patients were excluded respectively to account for the learning curve effect in both groups. 115 patients in each group were screened after propensity match. There were 14.8% morbidity in the UP-VATS group and 12.2% morbidity in the TP-VATS group, no significant differences were exist between two groups. Furthermore, no significant differences in other perioperative outcomes were exist between two groups. Although the volume of drainage (86.2 vs. 76.1, p = 0.078) were similar between the two groups, the operative time in the UP-VATS group (117.2 vs. 96.7, p < 0.001) was longer than that in the TP-VATS group.
CONCLUSION: Thymectomy treatment of (TP-VATS) is an advisable procedure for patients with thymoma, while these two minimally invasive thymectomy techniques are both appropriate for thymoma treatment.
Association between adverse childhood experiences and depressive symptoms among college students: the moderating effect of unhealthy lifestyle
Authors: Yin Jian , Wu Mingyang , Yang Peiying , Liu Zeshi , Zhang Yanping 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Limited study has reported the effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and lifestyle on depressive symptoms, especially among college students. This study aims to investigate the associations of ACEs and lifestyle with depressive symptoms and to analyze the moderating effect of lifestyle on the relationship between ACEs and depressive symptoms among college students.
Methods
A total of 21,143 college students from Shaanxi Province of China were recruited. The Adverse Childhood Experiences International Questionnaire was used to assess ACEs, and the Self-rating Depression Scale was used to evaluate depressive symptoms. Lifestyle information were collected by a self-report questionnaire. The associations of ACEs and lifestyle with depressive symptoms were analyzed using logistic regression models. Furthermore, we evaluated whether lifestyle modified the effect of ACEs on depressive symptoms.
Results
The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 15.57%. 82.32% of college students experienced one or more type of ACEs. After adjusting for potential covariates, college students with higher levels of ACEs (≥ 4) had a higher odd of depressive symptoms (OR, 6.25; 95%CI, 5.42–7.21) compared to those with low levels of ACEs (0–1). An additive interaction between ACEs and lifestyle on depressive symptoms was found. There would be a 5.25 (RERI, 5.25; 95%CI, 1.91–8.60) relative excess risk because of the additive interaction in participants with high levels of ACEs accompanied by an unhealthy lifestyle, which accounted for 37% (AP, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.19–0.54) of the odds of depressive symptoms.
Conclusions
Lifestyle interventions may be effective in preventing depressive symptoms among college students who have already experienced ACEs.
Synthesis and characterization of self-healing silica microspheres doped with epoxy resin and methyl-ethyl-ketone catalyst by a modified Stöber method
Authors: Oliveira Theogenes S , Batista Willame G S , Fernandes Rafael S , Balaban Rosângela C , Freitas Julio Cesar O , MARTINELLI ANTONIO EDUARDO 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Silica microspheres doped with epoxy resin and methyl-ethyl-ketone (MEK) catalyst were synthesized using a modified Stöber method. The resulting material is a potential candidate as self-healing additive for cementing slurries, especially for oilwell applications. Once dispersed in a cementitious matrix, the microspheres with encapsulated material rupture under the stress caused by cracks or damage formed in the cement sheath, bringing the epoxy resin in contact with the catalyst. The resulting polymerization reaction slows down the growth of the crack. The encapsulation process was carried out using a variation of the Stöber method to obtain micro/nano silica spheres. The resulting material was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis, energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and BET surface area analysis. The results of the FTIR and thermogravimetric analysis confirm the presence of silica and the full encapsulation of resin and catalyst. SEM - EDS showed that the average size of the synthesized spheres is the range from 50 µm − 250 µm. BET analysis showed a superficial area of 46.785 m²/g and a pore volume of 0.0983 cm³/g for the doped silica microcapsules with epoxy resin. For the doped microcapsules with MEK, the surface area was 397.349 m²/g and the pore volume was 0.0280 cm³/g. SEM images showed that once added to a cement slurry, the synthesized capsules ruptured in the presence of cracks, releasing the reagents. The results showed that the synthesis process was successful for both encapsulated resin and catalyst.
Kangaroo mother care among hospitalised neonates: evaluation of validity of duration measurement methods compared to observation linked to the OMWaNA trial in Uganda
Authors: Tumukunde Victor S. , Sekitoleko Isaac , Opondo Charles , Nyirenda Moffat , Tann Cally J. , Lawn Joy E. , Medvedev Melissa M. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Studies evaluating the impact of kangaroo mother care (KMC) on neonatal mortality and morbidity often rely on healthcare worker records or caregiver reports to measure intervention duration. However, the accuracy of these methods remains uncertain. We examined the validity of different methods of KMC duration measurement amongst neonates ≤ 2000g in Uganda.
Methods
This observational study was embedded within the OMWaNA trial, which examined the impact of KMC on neonatal mortality before clinical stability. An independent observer (considered the gold standard) monitored neonates every 2 hours to confirm KMC position, using an Android tablet-based application adapted from the EN-BIRTH study. The gold standard was compared to routine healthcare workers charting and caregiver diary reports of KMC.
Results
Among 222 caregiver-newborn pairs, 219 initiated KMC. The mean daily KMC duration recorded by the gold standard was 8·4 hours (SD 3·5). Healthcare workers reported an average of 8·5 hours (SD 4·0), while caregivers reported 10·4 hours (SD 3·8). The mean difference was 0·2 hours less for healthcare workers (95% CI -0·3 to 0·6) and 1·7 hours more for caregivers (-2·1 to -1·3) compared to the gold standard. Agreement rates for individual KMC episodes were 55·2% (95% CI 54·4–55·9) for healthcare workers and 58·2% (57·2–59·0) for caregivers. Participants with a helper (substitute KMC provider) had longer daily duration compared to those without (mean difference 1·89 hours [0·89 − 2·84]; p < 0·001).
Conclusion
Healthcare worker records provide a reasonably accurate estimate of KMC duration at the population level, supporting the integration of KMC indicators into national health information systems to facilitate monitoring and evaluation. Presence of a helper increases KMC duration, underscoring the need for research to identify strategies to increase family involvement.
Assessing Positive Youth Development in Colombia: Cultural Adaptation and Validation of a Positive Youth Development Scale
Authors: Velez-Gomez Paulina , Moratto-Vasquez Nadia , Sanchez-Acosta Daniela , Dodd Sara 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

As the Positive Youth Development (PYD) perspective is adopted in more youth programs, the need for valid and reliable measurement tools suitable for different contexts becomes vital. The Positive Youth Development Short-Form (PYD-SF) is a 34-item measure that reflects the Five Cs of PYD. This study aimed to adapt and examine the psychometric properties of the PYD-SF for Colombian adolescents. The factor structure (Confirmatory Factor Analysis), measurement invariance, and reliability (internal consistency) were examined. Participants were 1,189 adolescents aged 9–17 years old. The CFA supported a bifactor model of the PYD-SF, which was factorially invariant between gender and age groups. The scale demonstrated good reliability with an omega coefficient of 0.87. Findings indicate that the PYD-SF is a suitable tool for evaluating youth outcomes in program contexts in Colombia.
Radial artery calcification is a predictor of aortic stenosis development and progression after initiation of hemodialysis
Authors: Maeda Takuya , Nakata Junichiro , Nojiri Shuko , Kano Toshiki , Fukuzaki Haruna , Suzuki Kai , Io Hiroaki , Suzuki Yusuke 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Aortic stenosis (AS) is an important prognostic cardiovascular disease. However, there are few reports on the factors contributing to AS progression in patients with hemodialysis (HD). Because human arterial tissue can be easily harvested during arteriovenous fistula (AVF) surgery, we focused on the association between arterial calcification and AS progression. This is the first study aimed to establish a link between radial artery calcification (RAC) level and AS progression in patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). All segments of the radial artery were collected during AVF surgery and stained with the Von Kossa stain. Changes in peak flow velocity (ΔVmax) were calculated based on two echocardiographic findings, and the relationship between RAC level and ΔVmax was analyzed. In the univariate analysis, RAC level, baseline peak aortic jet velocity (Vmax), and age were found to contribute to ΔVmax. After adjusting for age, sex, presence of diabetes, and Vmax at HD initiation, RAC level emerged as an independent factor contributing to ΔVmax. In conclusion, A high RAC level may be a predictor of subsequent development and progression of AS after HD initiation. Our findings may help identify this high-risk group and provide targeted healthcare interventions.
International Medical Graduate Orthopaedic Residents Show Higher Research Productivity Than United States Graduate Peers Before and During Residency
Authors: MacLeod James Stuart , Jacome Freddy , Mansour Hadel , Lee Michael , Akwuole Frances , Cho Sia , Lee Justin , Lema Owen , Chopra Avani , Bakaes Yianni , Painter Sabrina , Baker Hayden , Mejia Alfonso 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose
International Medical Graduates (IMGs) have lower match rates than their United States (U.S.)-trained Doctor of Allopathic Medicine (MD) and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) peers. This study aims to more completely elucidate the research accomplishments required for IMGs to match into orthopaedic residency and to compare their academic productivity during residency to that of U.S. MD and DO graduates.
Methods
Data from orthopaedic-related journals and ACGME-accredited residency programs were extracted in July of 2024 using Python. Variables included: residency year, publications, first-author publications, citations, journals, h-index, medical school type, and the medical school and residency program locations.
Results
Prior to residency, the 56 matched IMGs had a mean of 32.8 publications, 9.8 first-author publications, and 517.1 citations. Matched U.S. MDs had an average of 3.7 publications, 1.1 first-author publications, and 61.0 citations while DO matched applicants had an average of 3.7 publications, 1.0 first-author publications, and 5.6 citations. During residency, IMG orthopaedic residents averaged 5.2 publications per year and 16.6 citations per year. U.S. MD residents averaged 1.3 publications per year and 3.6 citations per year, while DO residents averaged 0.55 publications per year and 1.1 citations per year. The h-index averaged 9.8 for IMGs, 2.2 for U.S. MDs and 0.7 for DOs. All comparisons for IMGs vs U.S. MDs and IMGs vs DOs yielded P < 0.0001.
Conclusion
These findings highlight the significant differences in research output between IMGs and their U.S.-trained counterparts in orthopaedic surgery, and show that these differences continue throughout residency.
Vinegar Syndrome Eradication in Film Conservation: A Novel Silica-nano-CaCO3/Ethylcellulose/N-butanol System
Authors: Dong Xujia , Li Yuhu , Chao Xiaolian , Zhou Yajun 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Photosensitive images serve as invaluable cultural heritage, holding an irreplaceable position in the documentation of human history, the display and dissemination of culture and art, as well as in the realms of development and exploration. However, a large amount of triacetate film degrades and suffers from the damage of "vinegar syndrome." Research has proven that environmental control alone cannot effectively suppress the occurrence of "vinegar syndrome," hence the need for deacidification protection of the photosensitive images (triacetate film) itself. This paper selects nanoscale calcium carbonate as the deacidification material and uses sodium silicate as the silicon source to coat and modify it by a counter-current method, preparing silica-coated nanoscale calcium carbonate particles to improve their dispersibility and acid resistance. The modified calcium carbonate is then combined with ethyl cellulose/n-butanol solution to form a deacidification and reinforcement composite material, which is applied to the film affected by "vinegar syndrome" by brushing. The pH of the coated film is increased from 4 to above 6.5, and contact angle testing indicates that the film surface becomes hydrophobic. After aging different treated films, thermal gravimetric analysis and XRD analysis reveal that the coated films exhibit better thermal and molecular stability; the tensile strength is enhanced, with stress-strain increasing from 27.35 MPa and 4.32% to 86.43 MPa and 5.53%, and remaining within a safe range after aging. The deacidification and reinforcement composite material also reduces the negative impact of increased film surface roughness and decreased optical performance caused by scratches and other defects on image clarity. Comparative experiments demonstrate that this deacidification and reinforcement material has a certain effect and research value in the treatment of "vinegar syndrome."
Association of serum asprosin with blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the community: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Yiwei , Jing Hui , Niu Chunfan , Ma LiJing , Qu Xiaofeng , Yang Jing , Xu Linxin , Wu Shirun 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective
To probe the serum asprosin levels in community-dwelling individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and to verify their association with blood pressure.
Methods
From November 2019 to July 2021, detailed information was systematically collected from 498 patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus at a community health service station located in southeastern Shanxi Province. Blood pressure measurements taken on the same day, laboratory indices, and serum asprosin concentrations were recorded. The systematization of participants was done by their blood pressure measurements into two categories: normotensive and hypertensive. The variance in indices between these two sets were analysed through the application of t-tests, χ2 tests, and non-parametric tests.We assessed how levels of asprosin correlate with elevated blood pressure prevalance utilizing logistic regression,.
Results
The group with elevated blood pressure demonstrated significantly exalted levels of asprosin in comparison to the normotensive group (P < 0.01). Logistic regression analysis indicated that individuals with asprosin levels exceeding 367.0 pg/ml were at a higher risk of developing elevated blood pressure compared to those with asprosin levels below 293.1 pg/ml, and the odds ratio (95% CI) was 3.130 (1.888–5.190) (P < 0.001).
Conclusions
Exalted serum asprosin levels are correlated with an heightened risk of hypertension among community-dwelling individuals with T2DM.
Association between daily activity/exercise and frailty in Chinese older adults: a cross-sectional study based on the CLHLS survey
Authors: Dai Linyan , Tang Yangyang , Guo Yihong , Lai Xia , Wang Xingsheng , Li Baoshan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objectives: To explore the association between daily activity/exercise and frailty among Chinese older adults.
Methods: According to the cross-sectional data obtained in the Chinese Longitudinal Health Longevity Survey (CLHLS) in 2018, 13080 adults were selected. Logistic regression was employed to explore the association between physical activity/exercise and frailty, by also considering the type and frequency of activities/exercises, and the prevalence of frailty.
Results: The incidence of frailty in elderly female participants was higher than that in male participants (P=0.000); Participants with older age (P=0.001), lower years of education (P=0.022), living with someone (P=0.000), poorer economic status (P=0.000), and low BMI (P=0.000) had a greater tendency of frailty. Older adults were at lower risk of frailty whether they were doing tai chi, square dancing, gardening, pet ownership, playing cards, socializing, or housework (P<0.005), and appeared to be more protected by housework (OR=0.096, 95% CI 0.083-0.110, P=0.000). The risk of frailty was lower in older adults with previous physical labor (OR=0.846, 95% CI 0.744-0.962, P=0.011) and previous physical activity (OR=0.817, 95% CI 0.711-0.938, P=0.004).
Conclusions: Older adults who took part in daily activity/exerciseseemed to have lower frailty risk. Activity/exercise like tai chi, housework, square dancing, gardening, pet ownership, playing cards, socializingwas associated with reduced frailty risk, with housework showing strong protection. The richer the type of activities or exercise engaged in, the lower the risk of debilitation. Older adults with a history of physical labor or activity had a lower frailty risk.
3D printing of ultra-strong Co-free maraging steel via multifunctional alloy design
Authors: Liu Yong , Hu Li , Gao Shubo , Zhou Kun , Tan Liming , Ji Weiming , Han Liuliu 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

3D printing is a revolutionary technology that has garnered significant attention due to its capability to produce parts with complex geometries and exceptional properties. However, one potential challenge associated with 3D printing is the increased susceptibility to cracking resulting from the incorporation of high alloying elements. Furthermore, the formation of brittle Laves phases is frequently observed in cobalt-containing maraging steels, which significantly compromises the ductility of these materials following heat treatment. Here, we demonstrate that by minimizing the crack susceptibility of the steel and introducing coherent Ni3(Ti, Al) nanoprecipitates with a core-shell structure via multifunctional alloy design, we have simultaneously addressed these challenges. Our cobalt-free maraging steel exhibits exceptional mechanical properties, including a tensile strength of 2.3 GPa and an elongation of 5.7%. Its sustainability renders it a more promising alternative to conventional alloys. This study provides a potential avenue for the development of cost-effectiveness and high-performance alloys.
Experimental investigation on mechanical and microstructural analysis of pervious paver block using pumice
Authors: R Harshani , Gifta Chella , Nandhini Esai 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Pumice-based lightweight pervious concrete is a new construction material that combines lightweight particles, high permeability, and unique qualities of pumice. This lightweight concrete is ideal for urban areas where stormwater management is an issue, as it reduces runoff, mitigates flooding, and improves groundwater replenishment. It also offers better thermal insulation due to air bubbles created when mixed with other aggregates. However, it has drawbacks such as lower compressive strength and the need for precise mix design.This study aimed to examine the mix design and performance of fiber-reinforced pervious concrete using lightweight coarse aggregates instead of regular coarse aggregates. The results showed that using appropriate materials and ideal mix proportions significantly impacted the mechanical qualities of Lightweight Pervious Concrete (LPC). The chemical composition of pumice, a volcanic rock, significantly influences its properties and suitability as a lightweight aggregate in pervious concrete.Various mix designs for pervious concrete were tested, categorizing them into two groups: conventional coarse aggregate and pumice. The results showed that concrete mixes with higher compressive strength generally exhibit a more compact microstructure with reduced pores and enhanced interlocking of hydration products. Water absorption tests measure water infiltration rates, which are crucial for construction materials like permeable pavements, landscaping, stormwater management systems, and infrastructure projects.Pervious concrete is an environmentally friendly solution for stormwater management, with its microstructure consisting of ingredients like cement, aggregates, and air voids
Velocity Measurement from Schlieren Images of Compressible Flows Using a Wavelet-Based Optical Flow Algorithm
Authors: Wen Xin , Lai Bozhen , Li Hezhou , Wang Shiqi , Xu Zhi-Qin John , Wang Benlong , Cai Weiwei , Liu Yingzheng 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Schlieren imaging is a highly sensitive and flexible technique widely used for flow visualization in high-speed fluid flow investigations. However, there is a lack of robust method for extracting quantitative velocity from Schlieren images. In this study, a wavelet-based optical flow (WOF) algorithm incorporating a viscous regularization term is employed to compute velocity fields from schlieren images under compressible conditions. The method is applied to both a simple turbulent jet and a complex sweeping jet (SWJ). The estimated velocity and vorticity fields are compared with results obtained from an optimized optical flow (OF) method utilizing conventional smoothness constraints. The comparison demonstrates that the WOF method resolves more intricate flow details and exhibits greater robustness to noise. In experiments involving three cases for both the turbulent jet and SWJ, the measured velocities at lower speeds—where the flow can be considered incompressible—agree with theoretical values. Under compressible conditions, compressibility effects lead to energy dissipation due to air expansion or compression, resulting in measured velocities slightly lower than theoretical values but still within an acceptable range. These results indicate that the WOF method is effective for accurately measuring velocity fields in compressible flows.