bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Freezing changes the values of turbidity
Authors: Poratti Samantha , Tronstad Lusha M 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Turbidity is a common measure to evaluate the clarity of wetlands, rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. We lack information on whether turbidity samples collected from the field are viable after freezing and thawing. Our goal is to understand the degree to which freezing and thawing water samples alters the value of turbidity compared to fresh samples. Water samples from wetlands, and streams near Laramie, Wyoming were collected during May 2023. We collected paired samples by comparing turbidity values of freshly collected water to samples that were frozen prior to analysis. Fresh and frozen turbidity measurements differed. Freezing altered particle stability causing aggregation or degradation, potentially explaining why some values increased and others decreased compared to fresh samples. Our findings suggest that freezing water samples prior to turbidity analysis will result in inaccurate measurements and is not recommended.
Minimally invasive internal fixation of Sanders Ⅳ calcaneal fractures using tarsal sinus plate and cannulated screw
Authors: Lin Jiandong , Jia Zhaofeng , Hu Xinjia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
This study aimed to assess the clinical efficacy of combining tarsal sinus plates with cannulated screw-based minimally invasive internal fixation for the management of Sanders type IV calcaneal fractures.
Methods
Between January 2019 and July 2023, we conducted a retrospective analysis of 32 cases involving Sanders type IV calcaneal fractures treated by our medical team. The treatment approach involved the utilization of tarsal sinus plates in conjunction with minimally invasive internal fixation using cannulated screws. Among the cases analyzed, there were 16 males and 16 females, with an average age of 34.5 years (ranging from 21 to 50 years). We observed and recorded key parameters, including operative duration, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative complications, preoperative and immediate postoperative calcaneal width, calcaneal Bohler angle, and Gissane angle. Additionally, we conducted a review and documented the healing progress six months postoperatively. Pain levels were assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS) before the procedure and at the final follow-up, while foot function was evaluated using the AOFAS (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society) Ankle Hindfoot Scale.
Results
The mean operative time for the 32 patients was 100.5 min (ranging from 62 to 144 min), with an average blood loss of 80 ml (ranging from 61 to 110 ml). Importantly, all fractures achieved union, with a 100% success rate, and no adverse complications were recorded. Postoperative X-ray imaging revealed statistically significant improvements in calcaneal width, Bohler angle, and Gissane angle compared to preoperative measurements (P < 0.05). All patients were subject to follow-up assessments, with the average follow-up duration being 18 months (ranging from 12 to 24 months). At the final follow-up, patients reported a notably lower VAS pain score of 1.3 ± 0.2 points, a statistically significant reduction (P < 0.05) when compared to preoperative values. Furthermore, the average AOFAS score at this stage was 84.4 ± 6.3 points, also demonstrating a statistically significant improvement compared to preoperative scores (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
Combining tarsal sinus plates with cannulated screw-based minimally invasive internal fixation is an effective treatment modality for Sanders type IV calcaneal fractures. This approach offers several advantages, including minimal trauma, a low risk of postoperative infection, reduced likelihood of soft tissue necrosis in the skin flap, superior fracture reduction and fixation, expedited functional recovery, and a reduced incidence of postoperative complications.
Outcome of Infective Endocarditis and Concomitant Procedures in Patients Undergoing Mitral Valve Surgery
Authors: Jobeir Basel , De Vol Abdelkarim , Alanazi Ziyad , Galzerano Domenico , Jobeir Anas , Alsanei Aly , Fadel Bahaa , Alamri Mohammed , AlHalees Zohair , Khaliel Feras 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
The incidence of infective endocarditis (IE) in patients undergoing redo mitral valve (MV) surgery was evaluated, and the outcomes of all patients who underwent redo MV surgery were analyzed.
Method
This was a retrospective review with prospective follow-up of electronic medical records from patients admitted for redo MV surgery at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 2009 to 2019.
Result
A total of 211 patients underwent redo MV surgery, 41 of whom (19.4%) had IE. In 51% of patients, IE developed after the initial MV surgery. MV stenosis was moderate/severe in 50 patients, while moderate/severe MV regurgitation was present in 89 patients. Factors influencing mortality included age, peripheral vascular disease, concomitant PVD procedures, red blood cell transfusions, preoperative mechanical valves, and active IE. Cardiac events were the leading cause of mortality (69.4%), followed by sepsis and brain-related causes.
Conclusion
While redo MV surgery has acceptable outcomes, the presence of IE, PVD, and concomitant procedures is a significant complication in these patients. Our study highlights the need for careful patient management and more in-depth research in this area.
Enhancing Orthogonal Finishing Machining of Ti6Al4V with Laser Modified Tools
Authors: Kneubühler Fabian , Zhang Nanyuan , Haudenschild Livia , Klippel Hagen , Putzer Matthias , Kuffa Michal , Wegener Konrad 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Finishing machining of Ti6Al4V, known for its high strength and heat conduction resistance, demands optimisation to achieve high-quality end products. This study explores modifying the chip contact length on the rake face and altering the flank face with a cavity to minimise process forces and temperatures, while maintaining cutting edge integrity. The research validates the manufacturability of laser-modified tools through ultra-short pulsed laser ablation, indicating potential for industrial scale-up. Extensive experimental evaluations under dry conditions assess the impact of tool modifications at various feed rates for planing and turning. Significant reductions in process forces and temperatures were observed with rake face modifications, particularly at a cavity distance of approximately \qty{34}{\micro\meter}. Ideal performance was noted for feed rates between \qtyrange[range-units=single]{0.035}{0.045}{\milli\meter} for planing and \qtyrange[range-units=single]{0.040}{0.045}{\milli\meter}/rev for turning. Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) simulations employing a Johnson-Cook material model were used to analyse chip formation and to predict the process forces. These simulations revealed a clear change in the chip formation and lower process forces and temperatures. The SPH results closely matched experimental outcomes, with a discrepancy of less than \qty{7}{\percent} in cutting forces for both tool types, although feed forces were underestimated by about \qty{50}{\percent}. The effect o the tool modification is reflected accurately at the specified feeds.
Trends in Uncomplicated and Severe Malaria following Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention Administration in Nouna, Burkina Faso
Authors: Gebreegziabher Elisabeth , Ouattara Mamadou , Bountogo Mamadou , Coulibaly Boubacar , Boudo Valentin , Ouedraogo Thierry , Lebas Elodie , Hu Huiyu , Glidden David , Arnold Benjamin , Lietman Thomas , Sié Ali , Oldenburg Catherine 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective: To assess the ongoing population-level impact of Seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) under routine program conditions by evaluating uncomplicated and severe malaria rates following the four rounds of SMC administration.
Methods: We used data from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of 285 villages in Nouna District, Burkina Faso, surveillance data of clinic visits and National Malaria Control Program data on SMC administration to calculate the malaria rates for each epidemiological week in 2021 for each health post in the study area. Negative binomial regression models were used with person-time used as offset and standard errors clustered by health post to obtain incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and rate differences estimating changes in diagnoses.
Results: Although SMC was administered during malaria peak weeks, both uncomplicated and severe malaria rates were high through December, after the fourth/last round of SMC. There was substantial reduction in infection rates in the 3 weeks post SMC, with a slight increase in rates around the 3rd week. Uncomplicated malaria rates were lower by 36%, 95%CI (24% - 45%), 37% (27% - 45%) and 23% (12% - 33%) in the first, second and third week after administration, respectively. Severe malaria rates lowered by 41% (14%-59%), 51% (32%-65%) and 25% (5%-40%) in the three weeks post-administration.
Conclusion: Under routine program conditions, at the population level, SMC administration was associated with substantial reduction in uncomplicated and severe malaria but only in the immediate weeks post-administration. Assessment of local epidemiology and extension of the areas in which 5 rounds are distributed may be needed to effectively prevent malaria infections in areas with a longer transmission season.
Radicality and Safety of Total Mesopancreatic Excision in Pancreatoduodenectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Silva Luís F. Leite da , Belotto Marcos , Almeida Luiz F. Costa , Samuel Júnior , Pereira Leonardo H. , Albagli Rafael Oliveira , Araujo Marcelo Sa , Ramia Jose M. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background:Pancreatic head cancer patients who undergo pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) often experience disease recurrence, frequently associated with a positive margin status (R1). Total mesopancreas excision (TMpE) has emerged as a potential approach to increase surgical radicality and minimize locoregional recurrence. However, its effectiveness and safety remain under evaluation.
Methods:We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesize current evidence on TMpE outcomes. A systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases was conducted up to March 2024 to identify studies comparing TMpE with standard pancreatoduodenectomy (sPD). The risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) was pooled using a random effects model.
Results:From 452 studies identified, 9 studies with a total of 738 patients were included, with 361 (49%) undergoing TMpE. TMpE significantly improved the R0 resection rate (RR 1.24; 95% CI 1.11-1.38; P < 0.05), reduced blood loss (MD -143.70; 95% CI -247.92, -39.49; P < 0.05), and increased lymph node harvest (MD 7.27; 95% CI 4.81, 9.73; P < 0.05). No significant differences were observed in hospital stay, postoperative complications, or mortality between TMpE and sPD. TMpE also significantly reduced overall recurrence (RR 0.53; 95% CI 0.35-0.81; P < 0.05) and local recurrence (RR 0.39; 95% CI 0.24-0.63; P < 0.05). Additionally, the risk of pancreatic fistula was lower in the TMpE group (RR 0.66; 95% CI 0.52-0.85; P < 0.05).
Conclusion:Total mesopancreas excision significantly increases the R0 resection rate and reduces locoregional recurrence while maintaining an acceptable safety profile when compared with standard pancreatoduodenectomy. Further prospective randomized studies are warranted to determine the optimal surgical approach for total mesopancreatic resection.
Impact of Fellowship Training on Surgical Efficiency in Ureteroscopic Stone Treatment: A Comparative Analysis of Fellows and Fellowship-Trained Surgeons
Authors: Brown Conner , Lorber Amitay , Boyarsky Leonid , Duvdevani Mordechai 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
As retrograde laser lithotripsy for nephrolithiasis has grown in prevalence, concerns over the associated increased intrarenal pressure (IIRP) and heat have arisen. Our study aims to show fellowship training produces more efficient surgeons with less OR time and laser energy usage, leading to increased patient safety.
Materials and Methods
We conducted a retrospective analysis of 1833 patients who underwent RIRS, ureteroscopy, or both with laser lithotripsy. Procedures were performed by fellows or fellowship trained surgeons. Pertinent patient, stone and operation parameters were recorded, and statistical analysis was then performed.
Results
Stone characteristics revealed no significant differences between cases performed by fellows and fellowship-trained surgeons. Surgical duration and total OR time were significantly higher in the fellow arm in both rigid and flexible subgroups. Fellowship training was associated with lower laser energy density (Joules/mm3 of stone) during rigid URS, but not the flexible subgroup.
Discussion
Multiple studies have reported the adverse effects of IIRP and intrarenal/intraureteral heat during laser lithotripsy. Our study demonstrates fellowship training results in less intraoperative time in both URS and RIRS, reducing the time renal tissue is exposed to IIRP and heat. We also demonstrated that less energy density was applied by fellowship trained endourologist during rigid URS, a marker of efficiency. These factors represent an overall benefit to patients.
Conclusion
The increased usage retrograde laser lithotripsy has resulted in an associated rise in intrarenal pressure and heat. Fellowship training is associated with decreased OR time and decreased laser energy density application during rigid ureteroscopy.
No evidence of interaction between FADS2 genotype and breastfeeding on cognitive or other traits in the UK Biobank
Authors: Centorame Giulio , Warrington Nicole M. , Hemani Gibran , Wang Geng , Smith George Davey , Evans David M. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Breastfeeding is hypothesised to benefit child health and cognitive functioning by providing long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are essential for brain development. In 2007, Caspi et al. found evidence in two cohorts for an interaction between genetic variation in the FADS2 gene (a gene involved in fatty acid metabolism) and breast feeding on IQ. However, subsequent studies have provided mixed evidence for the existence of an interaction. We investigated the relationship between genetic variation in the FADS2 region, breastfeeding, and their interaction in up to 335,650 individuals from the UK Biobank. We tested for the interaction over a range of cognitive functioning tests, as well as educational attainment and ot her traits thought to be influenced by breastfeeding, including cardiometabolic traits, reproductive success, and atopic allergy. FADS2 alleles associated with an increase in docosahexaenoic acid in blood serum (the C allele of rs174575) were associated with
decreased verbal-numerical reasoning ( p=2.28× 10− 5) and triglycerides ( p=1.40× 10− 41), in creased reproductive success ( p=3.40× 10− 5), total cholesterol ( p=5.28× 10− 36), HDL ( p=1.42× 10− 51), and LDL cholesterol ( p=1.46× 10− 21). We observed no evidence of an interaction in any of the traits, regardless of the modelling strategy on any cognitive or non- cognitive traits. We postulate that the previous positive findings are likely to be spurious, perhaps due to lack of appropriate control for latent population structure.
Comparison of experiments and simulation data through the installation of an internal heating tube in a bushing
Authors: Shin Yoon Hoo , Ryu Choong-Mo , Hwang Jong Jin , Moon Seung Jae 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This study aims to enhance the ion implanter performance by developing an innovative heating tube integrated within the bushing to improve temperature control. Gases such as PH3, AsH3, BF3, and GeF4 are ionized applying a high voltage of up to 80 kV in ion implanters. An ion beam is extracted from an electrode. Residual gases tend to be deposited inside the bushing when a bushing is operated at relatively low temperatures. The leakage current flows through the bushing owing to the deposited residual gas layer. This results in arcing due to potential differences. To address this issue, our approach involves designing and implementing a heating tube within the bushing, accompanied by the injection of a heating liquid to raise the temperature. The proposed heating system aims to prevent gas deposition and enhance the efficiency of the deposition process. The effectiveness of this solution is evaluated through a combination of experiments and simulations using a computational fluid dynamics software. Experimental results agree well with those of the simulation. Through these integrated experimental and simulation studies, we anticipate a significant enhancement in deposition process efficiency. The findings contribute valuable insights into optimizing ion implanter performance and reducing the need for frequent bushing replacements.
Seismic moment deficit and hazard assessment of the Eastern Himalayan Syntaxis
Authors: Zhang Meng , Pan Hua 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The largest earthquake ever recorded on land, the Assam Mw8.6 earthquake, occurred in the Eastern Himalayan Syntaxis (EHS), which has caused great concern regarding seismic hazard in this region. The seismic potential of the major faults in the EHS was evaluated by comparing the accumulation and release of seismic moments. First, constrained by the latest long-term global positioning system (GPS) measurements, the slip rates and locking depths of major faults in the EHS were calculated using a three-dimensional (3D) elastic block model. Second, the seismic moment release of the major faults in the EHS from 1800 to 2022 was estimated using an earthquake catalog. The results show that the seismic moment deficit of the western and eastern Bhutan and Assam segments of the Main Himalayan Thrust (MHT) are 2.6 × 10 21, 2.0 × 10 21 and 7.5 × 10 20 N · m, which are equivalent to seismic moments of Mw 8.3, 8.2 and 7.9, respectively. The MHT remains a major source of future seismic hazards in the EHS. In addition, the Jiali Fault and Naga Thrust were capable of generating earthquakes of Mw 7.4. This study also shows that if the seismicity of the MHT follows the Gutenberg–Richter (GR) law, the recurrence period of the Assam earthquake is approximately 2100 year.
Rare cell-based liquid biopsy for improved measurement of low-grade chronic inflammation
Authors: Schreier Stefan , Budchart Prapaphan , Borwornpinyo Suparerk , Lertsithichai Panuwat , Triampo Wannapong 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives and design: Low-grade inflammation is a hallmark of chronic diseases. More sensitive tools for chronic low-grade inflammation detection are needed and herein presented as a prove of concept. The proposed improvement involves investigating inflammation-induced stress imposed on hematopoietic cells and their production, focusing on highly sensitive compensatory mechanisms that address consequential imbalances in red blood cell and platelet concentrations. Such mechanisms involve the generation or release of blood circulating rare immature cell types.
Methods: A cell-based liquid biopsy platform, using negative selection, was used to detect these circulating rare cells in comprehension, allowing simultaneous analysis of an immature cell panel from one sample. The concentration ranges under physiological conditions for each marker was evaluated on a self-reported healthy control cohort and prospectively tested on three individuals undergoing various interventions; one afflicted with early-stage breast cancer, another with atherosclerosis in follow up and a third healthy individual with cardiovascular disease risk.
Results: The approach effectively identified rare cellular abnormalities in asymptomatic individuals who exhibited no abnormalities in their complete blood counts. This condition was designated as silent inflammation (SI).
Conclusions: The detection of SI proved valuable in aiding inflammation differential diagnosis and for monitoring the response to interventions in all three subjects.
Association between CD103 and E-cadherin Immunoexpression with Pelvic Lymph Node Metastasis in Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Yantisetiasti Anglita , Rej Henny Sri , Suryanti Sri , Dewayani Birgitta Maria , Winarno Gatot Nyarumenteng Adhipurnawan , Kireina Jessica , Chandra Anita Riau , Mantilidewi Kemala Isnainiasih , Hernowo Bethy Suryawathy , Susiarno Hadi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Lymph node (LN) metastasis is a poor prognostic factor for cervical squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). One important predictor of LN metastasis is lymphocytic inflammatory reaction, which may be indicated by infiltration of CD103 + CD8 + T cells. CD103 will bind to its ligand, E-cadherin which causes enhancement of CD8 + T cells cytotoxic function against tumor cells. This study aims to examine the relationship between CD103 and E-cadherin immunoexpression with pelvic LN metastases in cervical SCC.
Methods
A formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) cervical SCC of the patients who underwent hysterectomy and lymphadenectomy between 2013 and 2018 at Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung were analyzed. Twenty FFPE with LN metastasis were analyzed and equal number of control were compared. All samples were immunostained with CD103 and E-cadherin and immunoexpression was analyzed by Kolmogorov Smirnov and Chi-square. The p-value of 0.05 was considered significant.
Results
This study showed a significant association between CD103 immunoexpression and pelvic LN metastases (p < 0.01). There was no significant relationship between E-cadherin immunoexpression and pelvic LN metastases (p > 0.05).
Conclusion
Our study revealed that CD103 immunoexpression in cervical SCC is associated with pelvic LN metastases in cervical SCC by a mechanism that may not require E-cadherin expression.
Analysis and Design of a GHz Bandwidth Adaptive Bias Circuit for an mmW Doherty Amplifier
Authors: Elgaard Christian , Sjoland Henrik 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This paper derives theoretical results for adaptive bias in Doherty amplifiers and presents the design and measurements of an integrated adaptive bias circuit tailored for high peak-to-average high bandwidth signals. Fundamental equations for output power, impedance, and efficiency of the complete Doherty amplifier are derived. Even with ideal transistor models, the Doherty amplifier is fundamentally nonlinear due to saturation of the main amplifier and class-C nonlinearity of the auxiliary. Increasing the transconductance of the auxiliary amplifier mitigates the distortion. Adaptive bias offers the possibility to control the output current characteristic of the auxiliary amplifier. This means that adaptive bias linearises and mitigates the need for an oversized auxiliary amplifier. Both methods, transconductance scaling and adaptive bias, are analysed and compared as well as having a band limited adaptive bias signal. The design of a multiple GHz bandwidth adaptive bias circuit is presented. To verify the circuit design and the theoretical predictions, an mmW Doherty amplifier in 22 nm CMOS-FD-SOI, utilizing the presented adaptive bias circuit, is measured and compared with and without adaptive bias. Comparison is conducted both using continuous-wave and modulated high bandwidth signals. Measured results confirm the predicted improvements by the adaptive bias as derived by the theoretical analysis.