bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Trends of Medicare Reimbursement for Breast Cancer and Reconstructive Surgery
Authors: Siotos Charalampos , Seu Michelle Y , Frauchiger-Ankers Reilly , Delmastro Lauren E , O’Donoghue Cristina , Madrigrano Andrea , Alvarado Rosalinda , Perez Claudia B , Hood Keith C , Shenaq Deana S , Kokosis George , Kurlander David E 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Introduction
Prior studies have shown a decrease in Medicare reimbursements in some surgical disciplines; however, it is unclear as to how the reimbursement of breast cancer surgeons and the hospitals they operate in have been affected by changes in the healthcare economy over time. This study evaluated trends in Medicare reimbursement for breast oncologic and reconstructive surgery.
Methods
We identified the CPT codes representing a wide variety of breast oncologic and reconstructive procedures performed at our institution from 2010–2021. These CPT codes were used to identify relevant information within the Physician Fee Schedule Look-Up Tool from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid. Average national relative value units (RVUs) for physician-based work, facilities, and malpractice were collected along with the corresponding conversion factors for each year. Consumer price index and general inflation for each year were used to adjust values.
Results
From 2010 to 2021, there was an overall average decrease of 14.76% in Medicare reimbursement for both breast oncology (-11.41%) and reconstructive procedures (-16.38%). During this period there was an adjusted compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of -1.49, indicating an average annual decrease in reimbursement for the selected procedures. Meanwhile, there was a 2.34% increase of physician-based work RVUs, an 8.01% increase of facility-based RVUs, and a 33.11% increase of malpractice-based RVUs on average per procedure.
Conclusion
Over the past decade, Medicare reimbursement rates for breast surgeries have decreased. Based on these findings, breast and reconstructive surgeons should advocate for reimbursement that better reflects the costs of their practice.
Early outcomes of minimally invasive surgery versus thoracotomy for non-small cell lung cancer patients with neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy: a multi-center propensity score- matched study
Authors: Pan Hanbo , Chen Hang , Ge Zhen , Ning Junwei , Kong Weicheng , Tian Yu , Zou Ningyuan , Zhu Hongda , Zhang Jiaqi , Tao Yixing , Gu Zenan , Jiang Long , Zheng Min , Zhou Chengwei , Ruan Guomo , Li Ziming , Hu Yingjie , Huang Jia , Xu Guodong , Luo Qingquan 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of non-small lung cancer (NSCLC) but may notably escalate the surgery’s intricacy. Consequently, the sufficiency of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) remains controversial. This study aims to assess the safety and feasibility of MIS for NSCLC patients after induction immunochemotherapy.
Methods
NSCLC patients with neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy who underwent MIS or open lobectomy at six institutions from 2019 to 2023 were retrospectively identified. Propensity-score matching (PSM) was applied to balance baseline clinical characteristics.
Results
A total of 186 cases were included, and PSM led to 84 patients in MIS and OPEN groups. The baseline clinical characteristics and induction-related adverse events were comparable between the two groups (all P > 0.050). 11.9% of MIS converted to thoracotomy. By comparison, the MIS group was associated with reduced blood loss (100 [100–125] vs. 100 [100–200] mL, P = 0.011), shortened chest tube duration (5 [4–7] vs. 6 [5–8] days, P = 0.007), and decreased assessed lymph nodes (LNs; 12 [9–15] vs. 14 [11–20], P = 0.007) compared with the OPEN group. The two groups had no difference in the other surgical and pathological outcomes (all P > 0.050). Finally, MIS reduced postoperative complications compared with thoracotomy (23.8% vs. 39.3%, P = 0.031)
Conclusion
MIS is safe and feasible for NSCLC patients with neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy, with the advantages of lower blood loss, faster recoveries, and fewer postoperative complications and the disadvantage of LN assessment compared with thoracotomy.
Viscosity Measurements on Natural Gas: Re-evaluation
Authors: Herrmann Sebastian , Vogel Eckhard 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Previous experimental viscosity data for natural gas, published by Schley et al. [Int. J. Thermophys. 25, 1623 (2004)] and originally obtained using a vibrating-wire viscometer in the temperature range between 260 K and 320 K, were re-evaluated after an improved re-calibration. For this purpose, a new reference value for the viscosity of argon at 298.15 K and at zero density, proposed by Vogel et al. [Mol. Phys. 108, 3335 (2010)] and further updated by Hellmann [private communication (2020)], was applied. In addition, the density computed from the measured temperatures and pressures was determined using the equation of state by Kunz and Wagner [J. Chem. Eng. Data 57, 3032 (2012)] instead of employing a calculation according to the International Standard ISO 12213 nowadays out of date.
Preparation of oil-soluble lanthanum trifluoride nanoparticles and investigation of their tribological properties as well as tribomechaism in different base oils
Authors: Wu Tao , Fan Shuguang , Song Ningning , Zhang Yujuan , Yu Laigui , Zhang Shengmao 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Lanthanum trifluoride nanoparticles surface-modified by di(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) were prepared by a liquid-phase chemical route. The tribological behaviors of the as-prepared D2EHPA-LaF3 as the nano-additive in weakly polar mineral base oils 150N and poly-alpha-olefin (PAO6) as well as relatively strongly polar synthetic ester oil diisooctyl sebacate (DIOS) were evaluated with a four-ball friction and wear tester. The morphology of the worn steel surfaces as well as the composition and chemical state of typical elements thereon were analyzed by three-dimensional profilometry, scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectrometry, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy; and the tribomechanism of the nano-additive was discussed with a view to its participation in tribochemical reactions and self-repairing effect for worn steel surfaces. The results indicate that the as-prepared D2EHPA-LaF3 nanoparticles exhibit good dispersion stability in the three kinds of tested base oils, which is due to the improvement in their compatibility with the base oils after surface-capping by the organic modifier. Besides, at a mass fraction of 0.2%, the nano-additive can improve the tribological properties of the three kinds of tested base oils to the maximum extent. This is because, on the one hand, the organic modifier D2EHPA can participate in tribochemical reactions together with the freshly exposed metal surfaces and the released LaF3 nano-core to form a tribofilm consisting of iron phosphate, iron oxides, lanthanum fluoride, and lanthanum oxide, thereby improving the anti-wear ability of the base oils. On the other hand, LaF3 nano-core can be released from D2EHPA-LaF3 nano-additive and deposited on worn steel surfaces to exert self-repairing effect, which also contributes to reducing the friction and wear of the steel-steel sliding contact.
Are southern temperate urban natural forests a suitable habitat for beetle diversity? A case study in Chile
Authors: Tello Francisco , Tello-Arriagada Cristobal , Olivares Fernanda , LeQuesne Carlos , Barahona-Segovia Rodrigo M. , Montalva Cristian 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Urban expansion is an important cause of biodiversity loss due to habitat destruction involving the replacement of the natural environment with anthropic infrastructure. However, recent studies suggest that the harmonious growth of cities could allow the persistence of biological diversity within them. Thus, some cities, especially those that contain remnant forests that preceded their expansion, could harbor high levels of biodiversity. These remnant forests, i.e., urban natural forests (UNFs), are refuges for native species, providing suitable habitat conditions for population stability. However, traditional ecological studies have focused on natural and planted forests, so our knowledge of ecological dynamics in UNFs is still limited. Here, we explore the suitability of a temperate UNF for saproxylic beetles. These beetles are deadwood-dependent, highly diverse trophic groups that commonly inhabit natural forest ecosystems. However, saproxylic beetle diversity has been understudied in urban forest ecosystems. We analyzed the species richness, abundance, and seasonal variation of saproxylic beetles, including their most important trophic guilds, associated with urban forests. For this purpose, we monitored standing dead trees monthly between December 2019 and December 2022, using trunk window (flight interception) traps. Additionally, we measured qualitative and quantitative habitat attributes to evaluate the preferences of these insects in the UNF. We used generalized linear models as statistical methods to estimate saproxylic beetle habitat preferences. We collected 1273 individuals, belonging to 43 families and 195 saproxylic species/morphospecies. We found that diversity and abundance were strongly influenced by seasonality and the degree of decomposition of deadwood, with increased diversity and abundance in warmer months and highly decomposed trees. Our data show that UNFs harbor a high diversity of saproxylic species and are therefore suitable habitats and that the factors that regulate these assemblages are homologous to those of natural forests. Finally, our research provides evidence useful for the establishment of conservation and management practices to promote high diversity in UNFs, for example increasing the amount and quality of deadwood.
Rural Non-farm Employment in Uttar Pradesh: A Regional level study based on NSSO and PLFS Data
Authors: Hashmi Shadab 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

The study examines the drivers of rural non-farm self-employment in Uttar Pradesh, India. The state has considerable regional diversity in the structure and growth of the rural non-farm sector (RNFS), which is the main driver of job growth in the rural economy. The western region is one of the fastest expanding regions, while the southern region has lagged behind. The study uses a multinomial logit model to analyze the determinants of non-farm employment across different regions. The analysis highlights regional differences within the state and makes an effort to account for these differences. The study concludes that the variables influencing the rise in non-farm employment vary across regions, with demand-pull factors playing a role in the western region and distress-push factors in the central and southern regions. In Uttar Pradesh, we observed that a higher proportion of the casual workforce and stagnation of rural manufacturing activities are more pronounced in the southern region of the state compared to the western part, which all contributed to the casualization of the rural workforce. It is also found that a significant number of educated, landowning, and socially dominant caste people were diversifying their employment in the rural non-farm sector in western Uttar Pradesh, whereas such transitions were nonexistent in the southern region.
JEL Classification: R11, J21, J24
The metal-poor atmosphere of a Neptune/Sub-Neptune planet’s progenitor
Authors: Barat Saugata , Desert Jean-Michel , Vazan Allona , Baeyens Robin , Line Michael R. , Fortney Jonathan J. , David Trevor J. , Livingston John H. , Jacobs Bob , Panwar Vatsal , Shivkumar Hinna , Todorov Kamen , Pino Lorenzo , Mraz Georgia , Petigura Erik 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Young transiting exoplanets offer a unique opportunity to character- ize the atmospheres of fresh and evolving products of planet for- mation. We present the transmission spectrum of V1298 Tau b; a 23 Myr old warm Jovian sized planet orbiting a pre-main sequence star. We detect a primordial atmosphere with an exceptionally large atmospheric scale height and a water vapour absorption at 5σ level of significance. We estimate a mass and density upper limit (24±5M⊕, 0.12gm/cm3 respectively). V1298 Tau b is one of the lowest density planets discovered till date. We retrieve a low atmospheric metallicity (logZ=−0.1+0.66 −0.72 solar), con- sistent with solar/sub-solar values. Our findings challenge the expected mass-metallicity from core-accretion theory. Our observations can be explained by in-situ formation via pebble accretion together with ongoing evolutionary mechanisms. We do not detect methane, which hints towards a hotter than expected interior from just the for- mation entropy of this planet. Our observations suggest that V1298 Tau b is likely to evolve into a Neptune/sub-Neptune type of planet
Intervention for Critical Aortic Stenosis in Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome
Authors: Gordon Leslie B. , Basso Sammy , Maestranzi Justine , Aikawa Elena , Clift Cassandra , Cammardella Antonio Giovanni , Danesi Tommaso Hinna , Nido Pedro J. del , Edelman Elazer R. , Hamdy Abeer , Hegde Sheila M. , Kleinman Monica E. , Maschietto Nicola , Mehra Mandeep R. , Mukundan Srinivasan , Musumeci Francesco , Russo Marco , Rybicki Frank J. , Shah Pinak Bipin , Suarez William A. , Tuminelli Kelsey , Zaleski Katherine , Prakash Ashwin , Gerhard-Herman Marie 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS) is an ultra-rare genetic premature aging disease that is historically fatal in teenage years, secondary to severe accelerated atherosclerosis. The only approved treatment is the farnesyltransferase inhibitor lonafarnib, which improves vascular structure and function, extending lifespan by several years. With this longer lifespan, calcific aortic stenosis (AS) was identified as an emerging critical risk factor for cardiac death in older patients. Intervention to relieve critical AS in those with HGPS has the potential for immediate improvement in healthspan and lifespan. However, in the face of cardiovascular pathology that is seen almost exclusively in aging adults, HGPS patient-device size mismatch, pervasive peripheral arterial disease, skin and bone abnormalities, and lifelong failure to thrive present unique challenges to intervention.
Main Body:
An international group of HGPS experts and leaders in pediatric and adult cardiology, cardiac surgery, and pediatric critical care convened to discuss pivotal features of AS progression in HGPS, identifying challenges to and strategies for successful treatment. Candidate procedures were evaluated by in-depth examination of 4 cases of end stage classic HGPS with critical calcific AS that typify the pathology that necessitates individualized surgical risk/benefit assessments. Modified transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and left ventricular Apico-Aortic Conduit (AAC) placement were deemed high risk but viable options. Two cases received TAVR and 2 received AAC post-summit. Three were successful and 1 patient died perioperatively due to cardiovascular disease severity, highlighting the importance of intervention timing and comparative risk stratification.
Conclusions
Modified TAVR and AAC breakthrough interventions for treatment of critical aortic stenosis in HGPS patients could rewrite the current clinical perspective on disease course by greatly improving late-stage quality of life and increasing average lifespan. Expanding worldwide medical and surgical competency for this ultra-rare disease through expert information-sharing could have a high impact on treatment success.
Method for investigating closed-loop hydraulic transmission with accumulator maintenance of overpressure in the suction line of a pump
Authors: Bazanov S. A. , Anferov V. N. 
Published: October 2023

The aim of the study is to verify the operability, reliability and functionality of a closed-loop hydrostatic transmission, which enhances the durability of the hydraulic drive by isolating the working ﬂuid from atmospheric air and maintaining excess pressure at the pump inlet. The selected research object is a closed-loop hydrostatic transmission conﬁguration, where drain leakage return is carried out by an ejector pump, while a hydropneumatic accumulator serves as a closed hydraulic reservoir that maintains excess pressure. Theoretical relationships for the designed components of the hydraulic system were derived using mathematical modelling by equations of normal dimensionless hydraulic numbers and a Microsoft Excel package. Design methods of continuity and modiﬁcation were applied to construct the test bench. Based on existing research, the inﬂuence of various contaminants on the system failure characteristics was determined, and the positive effect of the purity of the working ﬂuid on the durability and reliability of the hydraulic drive was highlighted. An overview of existing open, combined open-closed and closed hydrostatic transmissions revealed their disadvantages in terms of ensuring ﬂuid purity. A proposed hydraulic schematic formed the basis for designing and manufacturing a test stand for investigating the closed-loop hydrostatic transmission. Criteria for selecting the pneumatic-hydraulic accumulator were deﬁned, and a methodology for calculating parameters was substantiated. A versatile design of the ejector pump, operating under various ﬂow pressure conditions, was developed, including replaceable components for the ﬂow section (nozzles, mixing chambers, throats and confusers). The test program and methodology involve four test algorithms: stand preparation, tests without drain leakage, tests with maximum allowable drain leakage, and tests with intermediate drain leakage volumes, resulting in a total of one hundred sixty experiments. This study allows the feasibility of applying the presented closed-loop hydrostatic transmission in various types of machinery to be assessed.
Dual system of water safety plan auditing in Hungary: benefits and lessons learnt
Authors: Bufa-Dőrr Zsuzsanna , Sebestyén Ágnes , Izsák Bálint , Schmoll Oliver , Pándics Tamás , Vargha Márta 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

A risk-based approach is recognised worldwide as the most reliable means for the provision of safe drinking water. Efficient implementation of the water safety plan (WSP) approach, recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), is facilitated by an auditing framework. In Hungary, development of WSPs is a legal obligation for water suppliers. WSPs are subject to a two-stage regulatory audit, a consultative central technical audit and a formal local audit. In 2019, a survey was conducted in cooperation with WHO to evaluate audit experiences of over 1,200 WSPs. Recommendations from the central audit significantly improved coherence and compliance of WSPs, confirming the efficiency of the dual approach. The use of a WSP template provided by the national authority further increased consistency and reduced time and work demand of the audit. Both water suppliers and public health authorities indicated a need for further capacity building on WSP development and auditing. The main challenge for water suppliers is the identification and risk assessment of hazards associated with the water source and distribution within premises. The recast European Union drinking water regulation is expected to accelerate the uptake of WSP and strengthen linkages to water catchment management and water safety in buildings.
Effects of disinfection by-products in swimming pool environments on the immunological mechanisms of respiratory diseases
Authors: Lee Bo-Ae 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Swimming in pools is a popular and healthy recreational activity. However, potential adverse health effects from disinfection byproduct (DBP) exposure in pool water are concerning. This study evaluated how such DBP exposure affects the respiratory system. DBP exposure was simulated with an animal-specific pool environment model. Experimental animals were exposed to DBPs for a specified duration and frequency over 4 weeks. The wet and dry weights of murine lungs were measured, with no significant differences observed. There were no significant differences in interkeukin (IL)-2/4/10, and interferon-γ levels. However, IL-6 expression decreased in the experimental group. To investigate the effects of DBP exposure on immune cell response, various samples, such as bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, lymph nodes, spleen, and thymus, were collected for T-cell isolation and fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Asthma-related blood cell distribution was analyzed using a complete blood count test; no significant differences were found. Thus, DBP exposure through this model did not induce substantial lung tissue damage, major alterations in cytokine expression (besides IL-6), significant immune cell responses, or changes in asthma-associated blood cell distribution. However, considering earlier results, future studies should focus on specific types, intensity, and duration of exercise that could affect DBP exposure-related immune-inflammatory responses.
Pengaruh Leverage, Cash Holding, Ukuran Perusahaan, dan Kualitas Audit terhadap Manajemen Laba dengan Kepemilikan Manajerial sebagai Variabel Moderasi
Authors: Atmamiki Kagunan Tetradia , Priantinah Denies 
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACTThis study aims to determine the effect of leverage, cash holding, firm size, and audit quality on earnings management with managerial ownership as a moderating variable. The population in this study includes all manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2017-2021. Based on predetermined criteria, we selected 94 companies from 144 manufacturing companies. The resultsof the Moderated Regression Analysis show that: leverage has no effect on earnings management, cash holding has no effect on earnings management, company size has a positive effect on earnings management, audit quality has a negative effect on earnings management, managerial ownership cannot moderate the effect of leverage on earnings management, managerial ownership weakens the effect of cash holding on earnings management, managerial ownership cannot moderate the effect of firm size on earnings management, managerial ownership cannot moderate the effect of audit quality on earnings management.Keywords: Earnings Management, Leverage, Cash Holding, Firm Size, Audit Quality, Managerial OwnershipABSTRAKPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh leverage, cash holding, ukuran perusahaan, dan kualitas audit terhadap manajemen laba dengan kepemilikan manajerial sebagai variabel moderasi. Populasi dalam penelitian ini meliputi seluruh perusahaan manufaktur yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia pada tahun 2017-2021. Berdasarkan kriteria yang telah ditetapkan, diperoleh 94 perusahaan dari 144 perusahaan manufaktur. Hasil dari moderated regression analysis menunjukkan bahwa: leverage tidak berpengaruh terhadap manajemen laba, cash holding tidak berpengaruh terhadap manajemen laba, ukuran perusahaan berpengaruh positif terhadap manajemen laba, kualitas audit berpengaruh negatif terhadap manajemen laba, kepemilikan manajerial tidak dapat memoderasi pengaruh leverage terhadap manajemen laba, kepemilikan manajerial memperlemah pengaruh cash holding terhadap manajemen laba, kepemilikan manajerial tidak dapat memoderasi pengaruh ukuran perusahaan terhadap manajemen laba, kepemilikan manajerial tidak dapat memoderasi pengaruh kualitas audit terhadap manajemen laba.Kata Kunci: Manajemen Laba, Leverage, Cash Holding, Ukuran Perusahaan, Kualitas Audit, Kepemilikan Manajerial