bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Novel technique and outcomes of umbilical reconstruction during cytoreductive surgery; a multi-centre study
Authors: Cheng Ernest , Yang Phillip , Khor Steven , Mui Jasmine , Sarofim Mina , Wijayawardana Ruwanthi , Ansari Nabila , Koh Cherry , Morris David , Ahmadi Nima 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
The goal of cytoreductive surgery for peritoneal malignancy is to remove all macroscopic disease, which occasionally requires the excision of the umbilicus. While the absence of the umbilicus can be aesthetically undesirable for patients, umbilical reconstruction is rarely performed due to the perceived complexity and increased risk of wound infections [1]. This study aims to evaluate the outcomes, cosmetic results, and patient satisfaction of umbilical reconstruction during cytoreductive surgery.
Methods
Consecutive patients from a prospectively maintained database who underwent cytoreductive surgery with umbilical excision and reconstruction were evaluated. Our technique for umbilical reconstruction involved recreating the subcutaneous fat space and fashioning umbilical skin flaps that anchor to the anterior fascia. Outcomes assessed included postoperative infection rate, wound dehiscence, seroma formation, wound appearance, and patient satisfaction.
Results
Umbilical reconstruction was performed on 50 patients, with 12 (24%) experiencing wound-related complications. Of these, 8 patients (16%) had superficial wound infections, while 1 patient (2%) developed a deep wound infection. Three patients (6%) required local wound drainage, though none needed surgical revision. There were no reports of wound seromas, skin necrosis, wound widening, or umbilical stenosis. All patients reported satisfaction with the outcome of their reconstruction.
Conclusion
Our novel technique for umbilical reconstruction during cytoreductive surgery did not negatively impact wound healing outcomes. Recreating the umbilicus improved cosmetic results and patient satisfaction, enhancing body image for those undergoing major abdominal surgery. This approach should be considered for patients undergoing major laparotomies that necessitates umbilical excision.
Effectiveness and Safety of Hypofractionated Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for Large Meningiomas and Those Adjacent to the Optic Pathway and Brainstem: Preliminary Therapeutic Outcomes
Authors: Hirano Yudai , Shinya Yuki , Umekawa Motoyuki , Hasegawa Hirotaka , Kawashima Mariko , Wipplinger Christoph , Wipplinger Tamara , Katano Atsuto , Saito Nobuhito 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Recent technologic advancements have facilitated the use of hypofractionated Gamma Knife-based radiosurgery (HF-GKRS) to treat large lesions or those in eloquent areas. This study aimed to analyze the preliminary results of HF-GKRS for these meningiomas, and to determine its effectiveness and safety.
Methods
This single-center retrospective study analyzed data of patients who underwent HF-GKRS for large meningiomas or those in eloquent areas with > 6 months of follow-up. The primary outcome was progression-free survival (PFS). The secondary outcomes were neurological deterioration, post-treatment T2 signal changes following HF-GKRS, and tumor volume changes. Volumetric analysis of the tumors after treatment was also performed to assess changes in tumor size after HF-GKRS.
Results
Overall, 24 patients with a median follow-up period of 22 months (range: 6–49 months) were included. Among them, 18 (75%) patients had tumors in close proximity to the optic pathway, and 15 (63%) patients had large lesions (> 10 cm3). The cumulative 1- and 3-year PFS rates were 100% and 92%, respectively. The cumulative 3-year rate of adverse radiation effects was 9%. Overall, 12 patients (50%) showed tumor reduction, with a median tumor reduction rate of 45% (range: 25–58%).
Conclusions
Our preliminary results revealed that HF-GKRS for large meningiomas or those in eloquent areas is safe and effective, with satisfactory short- and mid-term PFS and low adverse radiation effects. Further research with more patients and longer follow-up periods is required.
Exploring the structural, elastic, electronic and thermal properties of Ti-Al-Me (Me=Cu, Fe and Ni) alloys by first-principles studies
Authors: Song Yulai , Li Yiming , Zhang Zheng , Zhao Xiaolin , Tang Jiaxin , Ni Junjie 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The structural, elastic, electronic, and thermal properties of Ti-Al-Me (Me=Cu, Fe and Ni) alloys (TAMs) with the face-centered cubic phase were investigated using plane-wave pseudo potential method which is implemented in CASTEP code in the framework of density functional theory. The stability of the structure was confirmed from energetic, mechanical and phonon dynamic perspectives. Based on the calculated elastic constants combined with empirical and semi-empirical formulas, physical properties including ductility/brittleness, hardness and anisotropy of each phase was calculated. Moreover, thermodynamic information such as entropy, enthalpy, free energy, heat capacity and heat transfer coefficient were calculated. The results showed that TiAlFe2 had the highest thermal conductivity coefficient, and the heat capacities of all phases gradually approached the Dulong-Petit limit at high temperatures, while they conformed to the Debye T3 temperature law at low temperatures. Furthermore, the electronic structure calculation results indicate that all compounds are metallic and the d orbital of each atom plays an important role in the hybridization process. These calculation results are of great practical importance for understanding the basic physical and chemical properties of TAMs, clarifying their application and making sensible material selection.
Research on the low-temperature performance of basalt fiber- rubber powder modified asphalt mixtures under freeze-thaw in large temperature differences region
Authors: Shi Xiaote , Si Chundi , Yan Kewei , Zhu Yuefeng 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

To investigate the impact of freeze-thaw cycles on the low-temperature performance of basalt fiber-rubber powder composite modified asphalt mixtures (BRMAM) in the cold regions with large temperature differences, the effect of basalt fibers content on the mechanical properties of asphalt binder was comprehensively characterized by the basic property test and bending beam rheometer (BBR) test. Based on the self-designed freeze-thaw cycle process, the deterioration of low-temperature performance and freeze-thaw damage mechanism of BRMAM under freeze-thaw cycles were analyzed by the splitting tensile test, three-point bending test and semi-circular bending (SCB) test. The method suitable for evaluating BRMAM's low temperature performance was compared and explored by Pearson correlation analysis. The results reveal that when fiber content was lower than 0.4%, the reinforcement effect of basalt fibers on asphalt material was more obvious. With the progress of freeze-thaw cycles, the influence of frost heave force on the cracking resistance of BRMAM became more pronounced, and the influence degree decreased gradually. Excess fibers reduced the interfacial bond between rubber powder modified asphalt and aggregate. When fiber content was between 0.2%-0.4%, BRMAM may exhibit optimal low-temperature performance and the lowest sensitivity to freeze-thaw cycles.
Unveiling genetic diversity in jute mallow (Corchorus spp.): morphological clustering reveals distinctive traits among accessions from Africa and Asia
Authors: AFOKPE M. Pamela , Ologou Serge , Kouiho S. Romaric , de Hoop Simon Jan , N’Danikou Sognigbé , Achigan-Dako Enoch G. , Schranz M. Eric 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Jute mallow is an important crop produced for its leaves and fiber. In Africa, it is mostly produced and consumed as a leafy green vegetable. We evaluated thirty-two qualitative and quantitative morphological traits at two locations to assess the genetic diversity among two hundred and eighty-three accessions of Corchorus olitorius var. olitorius, Corchorus olitorius var. incisifolius Asch. & Schweinf., and Corchorus capsularis L. mostly from West Africa and additional samples from East Africa, Asia, and other regions. High morphological diversity was detected in the accessions evaluated. The main distinctive morphological traits of the accessions were leaf shape, the leaf margin, the plant growth habit and the number of primary branches. Multivariate analysis grouped the accessions into four clusters (referred to as Cluster 1: “Seed yield”, Cluster 2: “Intermediate”, Cluster 3: “Capsularis” and Cluster 4: “Leaf yield”), which are named after the key characteristics that defined them. The Corchorus capsularis accessions were clustered together and separated from the C. olitorius L. accessions. However, within the latter species, the analysis revealed further separation into two groups irrespective of the subspecies: one with fewer primary branches and a greater leaf surface area than the other with a greater number of primary branches and smaller leaves. Leaf surface area, days to 50% flowering, days to 90% pod maturity and the number of primary branches were important traits that contributed to a high harvest index and hence a high fresh leaf yield. The findings in the current study can help focus and accelerate breeding programs targeting important traits, including leaf shape, branching, flowering time, and leaf and seed yields.
Tracheal fracture and stenosis secondary to sidewall-inserted percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy: A Case Report
Authors: Matsuda Kazuaki , Ueha Rumi , Terashima Kumiko , Miura Cathrine , Sato Taku , Goto Takao , Kondo Kenji 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Tracheal stenosis may occur as a complication of tracheostomy regardless of technique; however, it is more frequently observed with percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT) than with surgical tracheostomy (ST). We report a case of a patient with severe tracheal stenosis due to a tracheal ring fracture and intratracheal granulation caused by PDT puncture through the lateral tracheal wall.
Case Presentation
A 62-year-old male underwent PDT after a vehicular accident. He was decannulated after two months but developed dyspnea and underwent PDT again. Bleeding occurred every tracheostomy change, and tube reinsertion was difficult; hence, the patient was referred to our institution for management. Endoscopy showed tracheal compression medially, long and deep tracheocutaneous fistula, and multi-level intratracheal granulation, particularly at the point of distal tube contact. Immediate surgical tracheostomy and endoscopy-guided excision of the granulation tissue using electrocautery were performed. Healing of the tracheal fistula and improvement in stenosis were noted after one week. The tracheal stenosis was stable for six months with full epithelialization of the latest tracheostomy site.
Conclusions
PDT is a straightforward and widely practiced method, but careful assessment of its indications and proper execution of the procedure are crucial. Careful evaluation of the indication for PDT and meticulous surgical performance are vital to prevent potential complications such as tracheal stenosis.
Towards Mixed Reality-Navigated Surgery: Point Cloud Surface Registration for Automated 3D Image Overlay
Authors: Bonsmann Henrik , Vo An-Nhien , Ladikos Alexander , Kuetting Daniel , Schmidt Joachim , Arensmeyer Jan C , Feodorovici Philipp 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Mixed Reality (MR) enables intuitive and tangible visualization of patient data in interventional environments without further exposure to radiation, while most state-of-the-art navigation systems lack proper immersive visualization and rely on the use of markers as well as additional intrasurgical imaging for digital-physical registration.
Methods
We develop and validate a modular and immersive system combining state of the art mixed reality hardware, high-fidelity tracking/scanning technology, and automated surface registration algorithms to generate an accurate MR holographic projection of surgical tools and patient anatomy.
Results
The system exhibits reliable real-time performance with latencies below 50 ms. The accuracy of the holographic projection was measured for registration and MR precision, revealing a combined average deviation of 1.73 mm on a patient model.
Conclusion
Overall system accuracy provides a strong foundation for immersive surgical or interventional guidance. Ongoing studies aim to investigate clinical value and usability in real-world scenarios.
Long term changes in chemical components in the meadow pipit (Anthus pratensis) in the formerly heavily polluted Eastern Sudetes Mountains
Authors: Bureš Stanislav , Hekera Petr , Jašková Paulína 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The Eastern Sudetes Mountains on the Czech Polish border were among the most polluted regions of Europe due to toxic metal depositions and acid rain, until the desulphurization of emissions from coal power stations and reduction of heavy industry which took place in the 1990s. This study provides a comparison of data on the levels of calcium, lead, cadmium and aluminum in meadow pipit (Anthus pratensis) nestlings and their available diet in 1994–1999 and in 2017–2019. Related data on the chemical composition of the soil in the area were also gathered. The soil pH and concentration of calcium in potential prey (invertebrates) and nestlings increased slightly, lead and cadmium levels decreased both in potential prey and nestling bodies in 2017–2019 while aluminum levels in nestlings were unchanged. The age of nestlings had no effect on these variables. The PCA analyses showed that cadmium dominated during the 1990s, while other elements, mainly calcium, more recently. The consequences of recent leaching of basic cations, mainly calcium and increasing bioavailability of lead in soils for future reproduction of the meadow pipit are discussed.
Diagnostic accuracy of TIRADS and Bethesda scoring system in evaluating thyroid nodules: a cross-sectional study
Authors: M Nandakumar B , Hiremath Bharati V , Tiwari Kaushiki 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background:
Worldwide, prevalence of nodular goiter is 4–8% by palpation and increases upto 40% by ultrasound examination. Upto 10% of thyroid nodules are malignant. Both ultrasound and FNA define in most cases whether a nodule requires surgery. Recently many studies have noted a discordance in existing risk of malignancy based ACR TIRADS and Bethesda FNAC reporting. The risk of malignancy in low risk groups is much higher that what was initially reported, potentially under evaluating and underdiagnosing a malignant nodule. Our study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound and FNAC in diagnosing the underlying pathology in thyroid swellings.
Methods:
This was a single center, cross-sectional study. We included all patients who underwent thyroidectomy at Ramaiah Medical College and hospitals from 2018–2024.
Results:
A total of 348 patients underwent total thyroidectomy during the study period. 212 were included after applying the exclusion criteria. Females represented 83% of the study population. Majority of the patients had TIRADS 3 lesions (53%) on Ultrasonography and a Bethesda 2 subcategory (58%) on FNAC. 33.49% of the patients had malignancy. The accuracy and positive predictive value of TIRADS score in diagnosing malignant lesion was 80.07% and 77.96% respectively. The accuracy and positive predictive value of Bethesda system in diagnosing malignant lesion was 81.13% and 91.66% respectively. The risk of malignancy in TIRADS 2, 3, 4&5 were 22, 21, 58 and 84% respectively.
Conclusions:
High accuracy and positive predictive value of both TIRADS and FNAC make them ideal investigations for evaluating patients with thyroid nodules. The relatively low sensitivity does not preclude their use. Compared with previous recommendations in the literature, more rigorous follow-up is needed for TIRADS category 3 and Bethesda category 2 patients.
2.05 μm high-energy thulium-doped fibre amplifier based on backward pumping
Authors: Yang Chao , Zheng Bowen , Huang Junyu , Li Xin , Li Yongliang , Dong Keyan , Ju Youlun 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

We demonstrate a thulium (Tm)-doped fibre amplifier using a Ho: GdVO4 solid-state laser as the master oscillator operating at 2048.53 nm. In continuous wave (CW) mode, a maximum laser output power of 33.4 W was obtained under a maximum pump power of 151 W injection at 18°C. The slope efficiency of the amplification stage was 19.5%. The output laser wavelength was 2048.57 nm, and the full width at half maximum (FWHM) was 0.14 nm. In Q-switched mode, a maximum single pulse energy of 3.86 mJ was obtained at a pulse repetition frequency (PRF) of 5 kHz with a pulse width of 22.1 ns, corresponding to a peak power of 174.7 kW and an average output power of 19.3 W. No nonlinear optical effects, such as stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) or stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) was observed throughout the experiment, and the fibre amplifier output remained stable. Ultimately, the maximum single pulse energy obtained by a 2.05 µm backward-pumped Tm-doped fibre amplifier (TDFA) at a PRF of 5 kHz and a pulse width of 22.1 ns was 3.86 mJ.
Has the Hainan plume interacted with the oceanic lithosphere of the South China Sea？
Authors: Liu Shaowen , Li Yan , Bott Judith , Tan Pingchuan , Anikiev Denis , Scheck-Wenderoth Magdalena 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Seismic, petrological, and geochemical studies confirm the existence of the Hainan plume in SE Asia, but whether the plume interacted with the oceanic lithosphere of the South China Sea (SCS) has been a subject of debate. To address this problem, we conducted a 3D gravity forward and inverse modeling to construct a 3D lithospheric density model of the SCS, incorporating all the geophysical and geological data available. Our findings indicate that the oceanic lithospheric mantle in the SCS has minor variation in both density and temperature, which contrasts with typical plume-ridge interaction signatures. Consequently, it is less likely the plume upwelled to the shallower part and interacted with the oceanic lithosphere. Instead, the affection of the Hainan plume is driven by deep mantle processes.
Effects of Winglet Cant Angle on Wing Aerodynamics and Aeroacoustics: A Parametric Study
Authors: Vaezi Erfan , Madani S. Amirreza S. , Keshmiri Amir 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The use of winglet devices is an efficient technique for enhancing aerodynamic performance. This study investigates the effects of winglet cant angles on both the aerodynamics and aeroacoustics of a commercial wing, comparing them to other significant parameters using a data-driven approach. A Full Factorial Design method is employed to generate a matrix of experiments, facilitating a detailed exploration of flow physics, with lift-to-drag ratio (L/D) and the integral of Acoustic Power Level (APL) as the primary representatives of aerodynamic and acoustic performance, respectively. The RANS formulation, along with the k−ϵ Realizable model and the Broadband Noise Source (BNS) model, are utilized to accurately simulate subsonic flows numerically. The study begins by examining the pressure coefficient (Cp) and APL distributions at various cant angles near the wingtip and root areas. The matrix of experiments is then analyzed to identify the most influential parameters based on the main effects of inputs and their two-way interactions. The results demonstrate that variations in winglet cant angle significantly alter the distribution of Cp and APL along the span, particularly near the wingtip, and that cant angle strongly impacts overall performance, at times even outweighing atmospheric parameters such as pressure and temperature.
Unpacking the Cost Implications of Diagnosis-Related Groups Reform for Lumbar Disc Herniation Patients in Chinese Medicine: A Closer Look at Evidence from China
Authors: Chen Mengen , Wang Yuhan , Yu Jing , Xia Shiji , Zhang Xiaoxi , Wang Yan , Yuan Youshu , Jia Xuan , Sun Henong , Wu Guoping , Wang Jiayi , Cong Tianzhen , Kong Fanxin , Hou Haojia , Yang Jingyu , Wang Zhiwei 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) presents a significant economic burden globally, worsening in China due to an aging population. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers effective treatment options for LDH, making its integration with Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRG) payment reform crucial for reducing medical costs and enhancing healthcare quality.
Methods
We analyzed data from hospitalized patients at Qingyang City Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Gansu Province, from 2017 to 2022. Univariate analysis was conducted to examine changes in patient demographics before and after the DRG reform. A single group interrupted-time series (ITS) model was used to compare key indicators of medical costs and length of stay pre- and post-reform.
Results
A total of 2,857 LDH patients were included in the study. Pre-DRG reform, 1,294 patients were recorded, with males comprising 46.06% and a mean age (SD) of 58.29(14.22) years. Post-DRG reform, 1,563 patients were observed, with males accounting for 40.88% and a mean age (SD) of 60.64 (14.25) years. No significant differences were found in nationality, marital status, use of Chinese medicine diagnostic and therapeutic equipment, use of Chinese medicine diagnostic and treatment techniques or diagnosis and treatment based on Chinese medicine evidence (P>0.05). However, significant differences were noted in sex, age, visit times, admission pathways, admission disease status, complications and comorbidities, and surgeries and operations (P<0.05). Post-reform, average monthly hospitalization cost decreased by CNY 36.78 (β1+β3=-36.78, P<0.05), Chinese medicine cost fell by CNY 8.87 (β1+β3=-8.87, P<0.05), and Western medicine cost dropped by CNY 31.68 (β1+β3=-31.68, P<0.05). While the rising trend in diagnosis cost was curtailed, both medical services cost and TCM treatment cost increased, with the length of stay remaining stable.
Conclusions
The DRG reform is associated with lower hospitalization cost and reduced costs for both Chinese medicine and Western medicine. However, its impact on overall medical services cost, diagnosis cost, TCM treatment cost, and length of stay is limited. Future DRG reform should leverage the distinctive advantages of TCM, enhance the payment system, improve treatment outcomes, and further reduce healthcare costs while shortening hospitalization times.