bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mysterious Ways
Authors: Phillips Jonathan D 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Earth surface systems (geomorphic, soil, and hydrological systems and ecosystems) and landscapes evolve via selection, including their abiotic components as well as their biological elements. As they evolve, there are often trends toward increasing “fitness” in terms of efficiencies of energy use and mass flux, stability, and persistence. But no laws govern these trends, and Earth surface systems lack goals or intentionality—these are the (apparently) mysterious ways that this book seeks to explain. This chapter provides an overview of these ideas and a review of key concepts of landscapes, evolution, coevolution, selection, and the everything-is-connected-to-everything-else nature of Earth systems. An integrated approach to landscape evolution is presented based on the TREE theory: transformative, recursive, emergent evolution. Examples of TREE in varying environments and over varying timescales are presented for Egypt’s White Desert, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia, and the Neches River in southeast Texas.
Tipping points and resilience
Authors: Ali Saleem H. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This chapter elaborates on the tipping point theory and the resilience of sustainability. It explains that Antarctica remains at the heart of global environmental change research due to the accelerating ice loss. Recent research analyzing 30 types of natural phenomena encompassing physical climate and ecological systems indicated that crossing tipping points in one system can increase the risk of crossing tipping points in other systems. The chapter then looks into controlling chaos in irreversible adaptive systems. It also provides an overview of the interplay of smart infrastructure and sustainability, highlighting how cities are a microcosm for developing a sustainable society.
Psycholinguistics
Authors: Ferreira Fernanda 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Psycholinguistics: A Very Short Introduction discusses psycholinguistics as an accessible and engaging description of how people use language. Psycholinguistics refers to the study of how humans process language and how they store and retrieve linguistic information. On the surface, talking and understanding language seemed simple and straightforward. However, according to research in psycholinguistics, complex computations occur behind the scenes when people communicate with other people. This Very Short Introduction also provides an overview of recent debates revolving around how AI tools, such as ChatGPT, underscore some of the core questions about the language faculty and how humans comprehend, produce, and learn language.
Reading
Authors: Ferreira Fernanda 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This chapter explains the notion of reading which allows the comprehender to obtain linguistic messages from what are otherwise meaningless visual symbols. It details the centrality of words when reading as they are the fundamental units of language processing. Reading goals differ depending on the characteristics of the text and the reader’s familiarity with the material, so a reading strategy should be optimized for those goals. The chapter also discusses the extent of speedreading, clarifying that it is not effective if the reader’s goal is comprehension. It considers whether reading processes are universal or differ depending on the writing system a language uses.
Decentring foreign peace mediation in the case of Cameroon’s Anglophone Crisis
Authors: Cho Jacqui 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The article decentres foreign peace mediation endeavours around the Anglophone Crisis in Cameroon by foregrounding the domestic political environment into which such a mediation initiative is thrust. Recognizing mediation as but one site of political contestation, the article moves beyond the reductionist binary of either making or not making peace in the meanings of peace processes. Drawing on over 60 interviews, including those with Cameroonian ruling party members, opposition politicians, and individuals involved in the armed separatist movement and civil society activists, the article asks what the Swiss facilitation attempt between 2019 and 2022 meant for these different domestic actors and what this in turn meant for the peace process. It pays particular attention to how the mediation attempt interacted with the fragmentation of the Cameroonian state, a frequent feature of highly personalized authoritarian regimes, and how this manifested in the creation of competing processes under the banner of ‘peace’. The case has important implications for the scholarship on state behaviour vis-à-vis mediation, particularly in authoritarian settings, as well as debates around spoilers and devious objectives in the peace mediation literature.
BHSeP8 Single unit experience of using OviTex reinforced tissue matrix in open and laparoscopic abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR)
Authors: Wilson Paul , Nour Hussameldin Mohamed , Sajjanshetty Malli 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
From October 2020–June 2024 61 patients underwent ventral hernia repair in our unit using OviTex reinforced tissue matrix (42 open AWR, 19 laparoscopic). In open AWR patients there was a high proportion—37/42 (88%) with grade 2 (co-morbid) modified Ventral Hernia Working Group (mVHWG) (24/42) and grade 3 (contaminated) mVHWG (13/42). Of the grade 3 open AWR patients there were 2 fistulas, 5 stomas, 4 with infected skin, 2 infected meshes, and 4 bowel resections/anastomoses. In open AWR patients median BMI was 30.1, median defect area was 128 cm2, 39/42 patients had midline defects, 4 of which also had parastomal hernial defects. All open AWR procedures used the retro-muscular plane for mesh placement. Component separation was carried out in 27 (64%) patients (Transversus Abdominis Release 27, Anterior Component Separation 1).
The median OviTex ‘mesh’ size used was 25x30cm 1S (range 10 × 15cm–25 × 60cm). There were 5 adverse events: 1 death at 7 days (open AWR grade 3 mVHWG); 2 seromas requiring radiological drainage (both grade 3 mVHWG); 2 Surgical Site Infections (SSI): 1 wound abscess requiring surgical drainage (grade 3 mVHWG), and 1 infected seroma—which drained spontaneously (grade 2 mVHWG). There were no mesh explantations. Median follow up was 18 months (range 1 – 43 months, &gt;12 months 36 patients, &gt;24 months 24 patients). There have been no hernia recurrences. The use of OviTex reinforced tissue matrix in co-morbid and contaminated patients, in our experience, is associated with a low rate of Surgical Site Occurence, SSI, and hernia recurrence.
BHSeP9 Complex abdominal wall hernia: our experience in a DGH
Authors: Khan Amnah Ilyas , Mostafa Omar , Sellahewa Chaminda 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Incisional hernias are a common complication and can be very challenging to manage. The incidence is about 20–25% after a major operation. We present our experience of Complex Abdominal Wall Reconstruction (CAWR) at a District General hospital (DGH).

Methods
The team comprises 2 Upper GI surgeons, anaesthetists who help optimise the high-risk patients and a radiologist. All patients are initially discussed in the CAWR MDT that takes place weekly. The CT scans are reviewed with the radiologist.

Results
Data from 24 patients was analysed from 2021 to 2024. The mean age of the patients was 59 (44–77) years and the average BMI was 32 (28–46). All patients had a pre-op CT scan to delineate the anatomy and were discussed in the MDT. Open Rives-Stoppa repair was performed in 20 patients (83.3%), Transversus abdominus release in 3 (12.5%) and component separation in 1 patient (4.1%). 22 patients (91.6%) had a planned elective operation whereas 2 (8.3%) underwent emergency repair due to bowel obstruction. Prolene mesh was used in 20 patients (83.3%), 3 (12.5%) had Phasix mesh and 1 (4.1%) had Permacol mesh. 1 patient (4.1%) developed a mesh infection requiring re-operation and excision of mesh, 2 patients (8.3%) had superficial wound infection that was treated with antibiotics and respiratory complications were seen in 2 (8.3%) patients.

Conclusion
Our experience and outcomes indicate that CAWR is feasible at a DGH with a dedicated team. The follow-up shows good outcomes with only one recurrence so far. Patients report a better quality of life.
BHSeP15 Setting up a Successful Robotic Abdominal Wall Service at Golden Jubilee National Hospital, Glasgow; A Tertiary Referral Centre for complex hernia patients
Authors: Gilmore Katie , Hughes Rebecca , Hughes Niamh , Pawlak Maciej 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
The establishment of a successful Robotic Abdominal Wall Service (AWS) at Golden Jubilee National Hospital (GJNH) in Glasgow, underscores the necessity of a dedicated abdominal wall service for superior patient outcomes. The current landscape of hernia surgery is characterised by inconsistent surgical practices, long wait times, and variable care delivery.
Robotic-assisted hernia surgery, well-established across Europe, has demonstrated significant advantages, including reduced blood loss, fewer wound complications, shorter hospital stays, and decreased post-operative pain. However, setting up a robotic programme presents challenges, such as the need for surgeon training, competency assessments and training for theatre teams. These elements are critical and time-consuming.

Methods
Interviews were conducted with the team that established the robotic programme, and a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of all patients undergoing robotic hernia repair was performed.

Results
The first surgeon was proctored on 30th of October 2023. To date, 67 robotic-assisted hernia surgeries have been performed; including 32 bilateral inguinal hernias, 15 unilateral inguinal hernias, 11 ventral TAPPs, and 9 TARUPs.

Conclusions
The creation of a dedicated AWR team has proven highly beneficial, with regular theatre lists exclusively for hernia cases. The hernia RAS programme has fostered strong industry links and enhanced collaboration between different Health Boards and surgeons. Collaboration, team work and compassion help achieve favourable outcomes and we, as a dedicated AWR team, are looking forward to publishing our results & developing the service further to become a beacon of excellence in Scotland.
BHSeP29 Reinforced tissue matrix mesh for abdominal wall reconstruction: early experience in a district general complex hernia referral centre
Authors: Zhao Sarah , Ludden Rebecca , Curwen Oliver , Malik Sajid , Gate Emilio Schweighart , Parker Samuel , Thomas Rhys 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Introduction
Reinforced tissue matrix (OviTex®, Telabio, USA) is a novel mesh comprised of biological ovine rumen scaffold reinforced with polymer. It aims to deliver synthetic mesh strength whilst minimising foreign body reaction. We present our early experience of OviTex® mesh for abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) in a district general complex hernia referral centre.

Methods
A single-centre retrospective study of patients undergoing AWR with OviTex® mesh between February 2023 and June 2024 was conducted at Croydon University Hospital (London, UK). Outcomes recorded included hernia recurrence, surgical site occurrences and length of stay.

Results
Twenty-nine patients were included (14 male, mean age 55.5 years). All cases were elective and for ventral hernia repair performed by two surgeons independently or as joint cases. Thus far 79.3% of patients have reached 3-month follow up. Majority were ASA II (72.41%) with mean BMI 31.46. Commonest mesh location was retromuscular, with posterior component separation performed in 13 (44.8%) cases. Mean defect width was 7.61cm. Nine patients (31%) presented with surgical site occurrences (SSOs), with 4 of these requiring procedural intervention. One patient (3.5%) presented with bleeding requiring immediate re-operation. There was no mortality and 1 (3.5%) hernia recurrence (parastomal). Eleven (37.9%) patients have been discharged.

Conclusion
In our early experience, OviTex® mesh is shown to have acceptable recurrence and infectious complication rates in abdominal wall reconstruction. Longer term follow-up data is required.
BHSeP30 c-section hernia—a preventable patology under diagnosed and often overlooked
Authors: Zanellato Artur , Sunny Ann , Tulloh Bruce 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

C-section Hernia is a particular type of intra-parietal defect. The first caesarean was performed 1000 year ago and has evolved significantly in the last century. Pfannenstiel described the incision for caesareans in 1900, aiming to reduce hernias and have better cosmesis. It became the standard for C-sections. The technique was modified and now obstetricians tear the rectus muscles and posterior sheath apart and don’t reapproximate this layer. As consequence, it leaves a gap between both recti which allows herniation of abdominal contents between the anterior rectus sheath and muscle. The aim is describing its typical clinical and radiological features, propose a classification and awareness strategy.
A prospective observational study was conducted on 38 patients, between January 2020–2024. Data collected was entered in a proforma, tabulated, and analyzed. Most of patients presented with discomfort, swelling, intermittent nausea and all reported a bulge. Three patients presented with small bowel obstruction. All the images were reviewed and match with intraoperative findings to create a classification. Surgical strategy were different for each grade.

Conclusion
C-section hernia has typical clinical and radiological features commonly under recognized as some signs may be subtle. Awareness by surgeons and radiologists is the first step to avoid this condition being missed or overlooked. All the hernias societies should call for its registry. Finally it is preventable by understanding the importance of posterior layer below the arcuate line usually described as peritoneum only and changing the practice by closing the posterior layer at the index operation may be the end of this problem.
BHSeP32 management of open abdomen. How to optimize the fascial traction and avoid the fascia retraction
Authors: Zanellato Artur , Damaskos Dimitrios , Vojtas Patrick 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Often surgeons face complex situations where an abbreviated surgery is required and the definitive managed performed after restoration or improvement of physiological parameters. Leaving the abdomen open temporarily is the best and quickest option but not free of complications. In 1986, a novel therapy using negative pressure with marlex mesh cover by op-site wound dressing, called the ‘sandwich technique’ was described which significantly changed the management of open abdomen. Several trial were performed with different meshes in combination with silicone bags, or not, with high mortality and high rate of massive hernias but promising results. On 90’s the term planned hernia was widely used. Miller in 2004 demonstrate that was possible vacuum-assisted fascial closure (VAFC) which enables late fascial closure in open abdomen patients up to a month after initial laparotomy by substituting the surgical towels with polyurethane sponge and attached a special drain and pump for liquid aspiration. Complication rates did not differ from patients with planned hernia, and the need for future abdominal wall reconstruction was avoided. Following this pre-packed dressing system was introduced. Some authors combined VAC with the Bogotá bag and others with mesh. The system was designed to actively manage the open abdomen by removing fluid and helping reduce visceral oedema. The system evolved to the advanced model when they fenestrated. The author suggest avoiding using a large piece of foam between the fascia which will prevent the closure and instead to put the fenestrated advance system underneath the abdominal wall on top of the protective layer.
BHSeP33 c-section hernia classification
Authors: Zanellato Artur 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Purpose
C-section hernia has typical clinical and radiological features commonly under recognized as some signs may be subtle. Awareness by surgeons and radiologists is the first step to avoid this condition being missed or overlooked. A classification for C-section hernias is needed to allow comparison of publications and future studies on these hernias as well as to purpose a selective approach. It is important to know whether the populations described in different studies are comparable.

Methods
Based on the radiological features and intraoperative findings of the first an prospective observational study of this type of hernia, the author developed and propose a classification for C-sections hernias.

Results
Five distinct presentations were found:Type 1—Small defect on posterior layer exposing anterior rectus muscle with or without peritoneal adhesion but no herniationType 2—Defect on posterior layer with abdominal content herniating between the rectus musclesType 3—Defect on posterior layer with abdominal content herniating between and anterior to the rectus muscles unilaterallyType 4—Defect on posterior layer with abdominal content herniating between and anterior to the rectus muscles bilaterallyType 5—Defect on posterior layer with abdominal content herniating between and/or anterior to the rectus muscles bilaterally associated with a small defect on anterior rectus sheath.

Conclusions
A classification for C-section Hernia and a division into 5 types, concerning the localisation of the defect and herniation, was formulated and helps the futures publications to talk about the same problem and offer selective approach.
BHSeP35 Incidence and outcome of emergency presentation with complicated abdominal wall hernias: a retrospective study of 10 years in a District General Hospital
Authors: Anwar Kehkashan , Jadhav Sourabh , Mihailescu Andrei 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Abdominal wall hernias including groin defects are a common surgical encounter in outpatient clinic , however there is an increasing number of emergency presentations with same problem to ED department seen in recent years.
It is known that best outcome on surgical pathologies is obtained when patient is operated on elective basis, with all necessary pre-optimization done before surgery . It is even more important to achieve pre-optimization steps when abdominal wall defects are repaired surgically, in order to obtain best possible outcomes.
Starting from this postulate, the authors of the study wanted to look at the outcomes of patients operated with any type of abdominal wall hernia in our hospital , who had an emergency presentation, over the last 10 years (2014–2023).
It is of common practice currently in UK to avoid mesh implantation when repairing a complicated hernia on emergency basis, particularly if any bowel involvement. At the same time, the current EHS guidelines advise using a prosthetic reinforcement on all ventral hernias over 1 cm diameter and in all groin hernias, in order to prevent recurrence.
Our retrospective audit looked at several parameters on all presentations with emergency hernias, as follows: immediate surgery vs delayed to elective list, open vs MIS approach, LOS, mesh vs primary stitch repair, long term outcome at follow-up including recurrence, chronic pain and other specific hernia complications.
BHSeP48 A review of outcomes following the establishment of a Complex Abdominal Wall Reconstruction (CAWR) Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) at Medway NHS Foundation Trust
Authors: Wilson Kendra , Umair Momina , Salem Reem , Dickson-Lowe Richard , Chan Shirley , Ahmed Ibrahim 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Medway ventral hernia patients have a high prevalence of co-morbidities, high Body Mass Index (BMI), recurrent hernias, multiple defects, mesh-explantation and stomas. Before CAWR MDT establishment, these patients were booked without standardized pre-operative pathways, experiencing delays and sub-optimal outcomes.

Methods
Prospective data of 55 patients were reviewed from February 2021 to February 2024 after the CAWR MDT was established. Median follow-up of 14 months. Outcome measures included compliance with Delphi consensus, MDT to surgery wait times, length of stay (LOS), complications, recurrences and EuraHS-Quality of Life (QoL) scores.

Results
MDT pre-operative planning achieved 99% guideline compliance. Key gaps were expert radiology, prehabilitation, and dietician input.
11 patients were unsuitable for surgery, another 6 referred to specialist centres.16 patients underwent surgery at Medway; 3 as emergencies. 42% had BMI ≥ 35, 60% required prehabilitation and median CeDAR (Carolina’s Equation for Determining Associated Risk) scores were 35% (IQR 22–43). Median time from MDT to elective repair was 6 months versus 2 months for emergencies. 38% of electives received ultrasound-guided Botulinum toxin injection into lateral abdominal wall musculature pre-operatively, median 47 days before surgery (IQR 40-61).
LOS was 5.5 days for electives versus 14 days after emergency repairs (P = 0.002). Recurrence odds were 10 times higher for emergencies (95% CI 2.5, 153), with 100% complication rates (Clavien-Dindo ≥3) versus 8% for electives. QoL scores were best for elective patients (36/90) compared to those awaiting repair (60/90) and emergency patients (54/90). Elective repairs utilized mesh (retromuscular) in 82% of cases (62% biological), versus 66% and 33% in emergencies respectively.

Conclusions
CAWR MDT enables structured decision-making, optimizes resources and improves patient outcomes. Findings advocated for radiologist and prehabilitation input and expedited elective repairs to prevent significant morbidity in emergencies.
WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0: responsiveness in detecting long-term functional disability after surgery
Authors: Yabuno Yoko , Naito Yusuke , Ida Mitsuru , Ogata Soshiro , Kawaguchi Masahiko 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
The WHO Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS) 2.0 is widely used for detecting postoperative functional disability. Its responsiveness for detecting disability has been evaluated at 1 year after surgery, with no long-term evaluation. The aim of this study was to examine the responsiveness of the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule in detecting functional disability at 5 years after surgery.

Methods
This study was a secondary analysis of a prospective observational study. Patients were enrolled who were aged 55 years or older and underwent elective non-cardiac surgery under general anaesthesia. They were asked to complete the 12-item WHO Disability Assessment Schedule and the Medical Outcome Study Short Form questionnaires before surgery and at 5 years after surgery. The correlation between changes in WHO Disability Assessment Schedule score and Medical Outcome Study Short Form physical score (change in physical component score) was evaluated using the Spearman rank correlation coefficient (ρ). The standardized response means were also calculated for typical subgroups for which functional disability was predicted to improve or decline and compared with the overall standardized response mean.

Results
In the analysis, 2596 patients were included. A moderate correlation (ρ = −0.47) existed between changes in WHO Disability Assessment Schedule and physical Medical Outcome Study Short Form scores. The overall standardized response mean was 0.17. The standardized response means for the patients with functional disability predicted to improve ranged from −0.45 to −0.67, whereas those for patients predicted to decline ranged from 0.17 to 0.56. These findings indicated high responsiveness.

Conclusion
The WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 has a high responsiveness at 5 years after surgery. It can be used to detect functional disability at 5 years after surgery.